Gathering Storms

By Elisa B.

Alexis Morgan, a top defense attorney, must defend Ian Chambers, a movie star, for murder. What appears to be an open and shut case has more twist and turns in it than a roller coaster. Alexis and Ian were once lovers. Not only do they have to sift through the facts of the case but they must also sift through the stormy emotions that each other brings out and the past they left behind. As the story unfolds, truths and lies are brought to the surface with startling consequences. The GATHERING STORMS of emotions that are locked up inside are finally dealt with.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Aug 1, 2001
• ISBN: 9781469780344

Elisa B.

Elisa B is an imaginative novelist who lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, two children, and her dog and cat.

Book preview

© 2001 by ELISA B MELLIS

No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or by any information storage retrieval system, without the permission in writing from the publisher.

Writers Club Press

an imprint of iUniverse, Inc.

For information address:

iUniverse, Inc.

5220 S. 16th St., Suite 200

Lincoln, NE 68512

www.iuniverse.com

Cover by Dana E. Weimer and Carolina Oliveto

ISBN: 0-595-19247-5

ISBN: 978-1-4697-8034-4 (ebook)

Printed in the United States of America

Contents

ACT I

THAT WHAT WAS

CHAPTER 1

ACT II

PRELUDE TO A TRIAL

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 11

CHAPTER 12

CHAPTER 13

CHAPTER 14

CHAPTER 15

CHAPTER 16

ACT III

THE TRIAL

CHAPTER 17

CHAPTER 18

CHAPTER 19

CHAPTER 20

CHAPTER 21

CHAPTER 22

ACT IV

AFTERMATH OF THE TRIAL

CHAPTER 23

CHAPTER 24

CHAPTER 25

CHAPTER 26

ACT V

WHAT WILL BE

CHAPTER 27

TO JENNIE MELLIS (MY SECOND MOM) FOR LOVING ME LIKE HER OWN DAUGHTER

TO NANA FOR LOVING ME MORE THAN LIFE

TO JEAN OLIVETO (MOM) FOR ALWAYS BEING THERE FOR ME

A SPECIAL THANKS TO SHIRLEY LONGSHORE AND MY HUSBAND CHRIS FOR BELIEVING IN MY BOOK

ACT I

THAT WHAT WAS

CHAPTER 1

The gathering storm clouds amassed in the gray gloomy sky; banging into one another and becoming one. Nature was preparing to unleash her unbridled emotion upon the earth and from the looks of it, it was going to be a torrid one. It was as if nature could sense the torment that was going on within the one staring up. She was transfixed by the movements of the clouds. Each bang and merging were just like her thoughts. One thought tumbling over another and another. She couldn’t stop the torment within any more than stopping the storm from wreaking its havoc. She only knew that she didn’t have much time left to rein in her conflicting emotions and compose herself.

Alexis Morgan, one of the country’s top trial lawyers, couldn’t believe she was allowing her train of thought to continue. She had schooled herself over the years to be utterly in control of her emotions and it had paid off. She had become a ruthless attorney, never giving into emotions, which earned her the name ‘’ Ice Queen ‘’. Alexis was one of the best of the best. Clients from all over the world seeked her counsel. She knew how to win and because of this, she was now in her present situation.

Ian Chambers, The Ian Chambers, one of Hollywood’s most sought after actors wanted her and no one else as his attorney. He was being accused of murdering his live in girl friend and the evidence was strong against him. He needed a miracle, not an attorney, but it wasn’t for this reason that Alexis’ mind churned like the foreboding storm. It was all the hidden locked up emotions she had about him. Alexis Morgan and Ian Chambers were an item once, but this was before he was a star and she was an attorney. It was back in High School and College. They were supposed to have a future together but fate stepped in. The memories came rushing in like water that had been held back by an enormous floodgate and once the gate was open, there was nothing she could do to stop it. Her mind kept going back, back, back, to a different place, another time…

It was the first day of her senior year in High School. She couldn’t wait to get it over with, so she could begin her journey into life, as she called it. Alexis felt that High School was a waste of time; nothing more than partying and socializing. She couldn’t wait to get to college and begin her career. For ever since Alexis had been a little girl, she had always wanted to be an attorney. She always knew she’d make a good attorney and for this reason, Alexis poured herself into her studies. But, a brief encounter on her first day of High School changed everything.

She was rushing to her first class and accidentally knocked into someone, which sent her books flying. Strong lean masculine hands helped her to her feet and retrieved her books. When she looked up to thank him, she still remembered staring into the most mesmerizing blue eyes, which held a bit of humor in them. She was furious at herself for staring and at him for smiling at her with a lops sided grin that spoke of mockery. She remembered muttering her thanks and pushing past him to get to class. It was later on that day that she found out who he was. He was Ian Chambers, a transfer student from some prep school. The female population of Winston High was all agog about him. Not only was he extremely good looking; with his long muscular body, golden blonde hair, chiseled features, and blue eyes, but from the gossip she had heard, he was also immensely witty and charming.

It wasn’t until at a friend’s party, a couple of weeks later, that Alexis’s even thought of him again. He was there and for some reason seeking her out. Ian wanted to meet her and he felt she owed him a little more than a murmured thanks. Such arrogance, thought Alexis, but after a lot of charming persuasion, on his part, Alexis agreed to go out on a date with him.

Alexis could remember that first date all too well. She had been extremely nervous and spent hours primping. Ian took her to a charming little restaurant to grab a bite and then, afterwards, they strolled around the county lake; talking about each others lives. Alexis couldn’t remember ever feeling so at ease with another person. She felt so comfortable and free with Ian; something she never felt before with anyone else. It was that night that he kissed her, so thoroughly and passionately, that she felt her soul being sucked right out of her. From that moment forward, Alexis was lost. She was consumed with such an aching desire to be with him; to be one with him, that he became her whole world.

They spent the rest of their high school senior year doing what most high school couples did. They went to high school functions together, parties together, and spent the holidays together. They were inseparable. They felt like two kindred spirits, who had found their soul mates in life. They were perfect for each other. Each complimenting the other one perfectly. They were the darling sweethearts of Winston High. Ian was the captain of the football team and Alexis was the school president. They were even named senior prom king and queen. When the school year ended, Alexis and Ian spent their summer together, whenever they could. They each had taken summer jobs; Alexis worked as a messenger in a law firm and Ian helped build sets for summer stage. Whenever their schedules would give them a week end off, they would take off for the shore; each telling their parents they were going with friends. It was on these weekends, that they would take long walks on the beach and discuss their futures. Alexis and Ian decided to go to the same college, Willow University. Alexis was going into pre law and Ian was going into advertising.

The first year of college was hard. Alexis and Ian hardly had time for each other. They were busy studying and working their part time jobs. So, they made the most of what little precious time they had. Whenever they could be together, they were like love sick fools starved for each others being. Alexis could remeber those moments as being an all consuming passion that could transcend the space of time. The world could have caved in around them but neither would have cared, as long as they had each other.

Alexis’ and Ian’s college summers were spent much like their senior summer. Their second and third years of college were very much like their first. It was in their fourth year that everything started to fall apart. College was more demanding. Alexis was spending countless hours on preparing herself for the LSATs and law school, which left little time for Ian. Ian was questioning his choice of career. He had done a few college stage productions and loved it. He spent less and less time on studying and more and more time at the theater and with the theater people. Ian had met and became very friendly with a fellow actor named Lucinda Martinelli. Ian had sworn to Alexis they were just friends but there was something about Lucinda that Alexis did not trust. She couldn’t put her finger on it, but whenever they were all together, Lucinda would become very possessive of Ian. Alexis would point this out to Ian but he always laughed it off, saying ‘ it was just Lucinda’s theatrics coming out and not to worry because after all he was her’s and no one else’s’.’ Even with all of Ian’s reassurances, Alexis couldn’t stop worrying, which caused them to argue. She could feel it in her bones. Lucinda wanted Ian and she would let no one or nothing stand in her way.

And then it happened. Alexis and Ian had a terrible fight. They were arguing about everything. Looking back now, Alexis realized she had pushed Ian. She was extremely worried about her up coming LSAT Test and she hadn’t heard from any of the law schools she applied to. Ian was nervous about his upcoming role in the play that was opening that weekend, so he wasn’t exactly his usual compassionate self. But, Alexis didn’t care. She was tired of hearing about the play this and the play that and Lucinda thinks this and Lucinda thinks that. So, they argued. Ian had enough and left in quite a fit of anger and Alexis did nothing to stop him. She ended up crying herself to sleep; vowing, she’d make things right in the morning.

The next morning, Alexis woke up still tired from her restless sleep. She and Ian had never fought like that before and she knew she had to talk to him. She had to straighten this out before it would go to far. She believed in taking the direct approach; never letting things fester too long. Alexis got dressed and went over to Ian’s place. Trying to look as cheerful as possible, she knocked on Ian’s door. His roommate Hank looked suprised to see her and was hesitant on letting her in. Hank started to rattle on about anything and in an unusually loud voice. From Hank’s behavior, Alexis could sense there was something wrong. She pushed her self past Hank and flew up the steps to Ian’s room. She didn’t even bother to knock, but nothing, not anything, could have prepared her for what she saw. There in Ian’s bed were Ian and Lucinda sprawled out across the bed, as naked as new born babes. She stood there motionless in the doorway but she must have let out a loud gasp, because they both stirred from their sleep. Ian rose up on his elbows and shook his head as if to clear the confusion from it. He murmured something about a headache as he looked at Alexis. But, a movement beside him in bed made him turn his head and when he looked back at Alexis, she almost believed the stunned look of confusion on his face. It was too much to bear. In a fit of tears, Alexis flew down the stairs, past an embarrassed Hank, and out the door. Knowing the whole time, Ian was trying to follow her and calling her name, but she didn’t care.

Alexis just kept running and running until she tired herself out. She found herself just wandering around the campus aimlessly. All she could feel was hurt and betrayal. She thought Ian loved her. He had made her feel so alive and taught her how to live life with exuberance. He made her feel special. Alexis felt her whole world was caving in. What a fool she was to trust someone and let them in. She vowed never to give into her emotions again.

It had grown dark by now and Alexis found herself in front of her apartment. There was Ian, sitting on the steps waiting for her. Alexis was completely drained of all emotion and tears. She was numb by now; it felt as if nothing mattered. It was this attitude that she presented to Ian. He tried talking to her but there was no reasoning with her. Alexis didn’t want to hear any excuses. Their last conversation had been etched into her brain…

So, this is it’’ pleaded Ian There’s nothing I can say.’’

"Actually you said enough Ian, no let me correct that, I’ve seen enough.’’ Alexis retorted with icy sarcasm.

You’re being so unfair Alexis. Honestly, I don’t know how she got there. I don’t remember much about last night. I was drunk.

I’m unfair! I’m unfair! How dare you? You didn’t see me jumping into bed with someone just because we had a fight.

"Aaaalexis’’ Ian said between clenched teeth.

No, you just wait. I’m not finished Ian, I loved you. I let you in where no one else has been. You betrayed me and all over a stupid fight. How could you? I can never trust you again. The hurt is too deep. Ooh, Ian, just leave me be Alexis half sobbed. She couldn’t do this. She thought she was drained of all emotions but seeing the hurt on Ian’s face was too much. She didn’t know if it was real or an act. All she did know was that she couldn’t or wouldn’t allow him the opportunity to hurt her again.

Ian crept up behind her and tried to take her in his arms but Alexis shoved him away.

Don’t touch me! All your charming ways are not going to get you out of this one.

Alexis, please, I love you Ian whispered in a soft caress.

No Alexis stated with vehemence I don’t think so, Ian. I don’t think you know what love is. I think you just like the idea of being in love. You’ve gotten so caught up in your acting and actor friends that I don’t even know you anymore.

Alexis, come on. I haven’t changed. You’re just upset and emotional right now. You’re not thinking rationally. How about we both get a good night sleep and we’ll talk in the morning.

Alexis turned to face him. Her face was devoid of any emotion and what she said next, was as if a knife was thrust into Ian’s heart and the last thing he expected.

I’m not tired and as far as my emotional state, it’s no longer any of your concern. My emotions are drained right now. There’s nothing left and I mean nothing. I feel nothing. All I know is I’ll never let anyone hurt me like that again.

Alexis, what exactly are you trying to say Ian said in hesitating voice.

Read between the lines, Ian, or do I have to put it in a script before you’ll understand it. We’re done, Ian, kaput, fini, comprende. Go to your precious Lucinda. I’m sure she’ll take you in with open arms.

You can’t mean that. Come on Alexis. Ian replied in a voice of controlled fury.

Ian go. I never want to see you again and I mean it. Alexis screamed.

With that, Ian spun on his heels and walked away.

It was the last time Alexis ever saw him face to face or talked to him. He tried to call her but she wouldn’t accept his calls. He even sent her flowers with a dinner invitation but she sent them back. Then, there was nothing. She didn’t even see him around campus anymore. And then one day, her roommate Sherry told her that Ian had dropped out of school with Lucinda. They had both taken off to California. Alexis had died at that moment; not physically, but emotionally.

ACT II

PRELUDE TO A TRIAL

CHAPTER 2

The sky opened up and unleashed its fury. The rain pelted against the board room window; bringing, Alexis back to the present and just in time. It gave Alexis only seconds to compose herself and sheathe her mask of ice before the intercom buzzed. Yes replied Alexis. Ms. Morgan, there’s an Ian Chambers here to see you said Jill. I’m expecting him, Jill. You can send him in. Alexis knew that the moment of truth was at hand. Could she or couldn’t she do it? Deep down inside, she knew she had to. She had faced down some of the most powerful people in the world without a flicker of emotion and she would be damned before she let him, Ian Chambers, see that he still had any effect on her.

Jill, her secretary, walked into the boardroom laughing and looking flushed. It was obvious that she was laughing at something Ian had said and was quite charmed by him. Ms. Morgan, Mr. Chambers. Mr. Chambers, Ms. Morgan Jill made the introductions. Thank you Jill. That will be all. You can bring in refreshments later stated Alexis, as she shuffled through some papers. Jill, it was my pleasure meeting you and don’t forget to stop by the set to see us film. I’ll clear everything with the studio. After all, I never like to disappoint such a beautiful lady and such a loyal fan said Ian, as he took her hand and lightly brushed his lips with it. Jill thought she was going to faint. THE Ian Chambers had just kissed her hand. She stuttered a thank you and more or less floated out of the room.

Alexis watched the whole exchange with more than a little annoyance. ‘He hasn’t changed one bit. He’s still an incurable charming flirt. But, oh, how much more suave and better at it he was now. His voice was even a little deeper than she had remembered. It had a soothing coaxing quality to it now as if he was trying to lure you into something. Alexis shook herself from her thoughts and looked up at Ian, who was blatantly staring at her.

Mr. Chambers, please have a seat. Alexis said as she motioned to a chair.

Why thank you Ms. Morgan Ian said as he stressed the Ms. part. He lowered his lean frame into the chair and slowly stretched his long legs out. He appeared quite at ease and comfortable for someone who was being accused of murder.

Alexis chose to ignore it and got right down to business. Well, Mr. Morgan, we know the obvious. You’re here seeking council for a murder charge but what I would like to know is why you chose our firm.

It’s quite simple. I need the best right now and your firm comes highly recommended.

I see, but why not have one of the senior partners handle it. They have far more experience than I. Since John Chaucer handled your bail hearing and he is already located out in California, why not stay with him? Alexis said a little too quickly for her liking.

I thought this out very thoroughly, Ian drawled, I feel a younger female would be more aggressive with this situation than an older male. After all, the victim was a female and the prosecution would like to believe that I killed her out of jealousy. I’ve already spoken to one of your senior partners, a Mr. Pete Holbrook, and he is in agreement with me. He feels that you’re the best there is, especially since I choose not to plea bargain. I want nothing other than a not-guilty verdict. If you feel that you can’t handle it, let me know now. I’ll speak to Mr. Holbrook and tell him that I chose to go with some one else, shall we say, more experienced."

Alexis’ nostril flared. How dare Holbrook and he discuss this without Holbrook talking to her and how dare Ian think she couldn’t handle this.

I do not recall mentioning anything about not being able to handle your case, Mr. Chambers. I just like to know where my clients stand as far as I’m concerned, replied Alexis, rather stiffly.

Oh, looking to boost your ego stated Ian dryly.

I beg your pardon.

Nothing, replied Ian. Alexis felt as if for some reason Ian was trying to spur her temper, but there was no way she would allow that. For if she allowed him to get to her, then she would have to admit to herself that she still had feelings for him and she would never permit that. Her feelings were well buried and that was where they were going to stay.

Since we got that out of the way, Mr. Chambers, how about you tell me exactly what happened?

Fine, but can we please dispense with the Mr. Chambers and Ms. Morgan, coaxed Ian.

As you wish, but can we please get back to the problem at hand?

"Why, yes. Let me see. Where to begin. I guess I should start with how I knew Laine

Tanner. I met her on the set of one of my movies. She was an extra. We hit it off and started dating. After a couple of months, I asked her to move in. We’d been living together for about four months before she was murdered."

Ian was interrupted by a knock on the door. Come in, said Alexis. I’m sorry to interrupt you, but I thought Mr. Chambers and you would like some coffee, said Jill. It’s alright, Jill. Just set it down on the table over there, thank you. If we need any thing else, I’ll call you. Ian had gotten up by now and was staring out the window at the rain. It was if he was trying to gather his thoughts. I’m sorry for the intrusion said Alexis, but Ian didn’t answer. He turned to face her but still didn’t speak. Alexis could see the anguish and hurt in him. It was the first sign of loss he had displayed. This must be difficult for you. I’m sorry. You must have loved her very much? Alexis said softly. Ian just stared at her and stated flatly, More difficult than you can ever imagine. It was not just the lost of Laine that was causing his anguish but seeing Alexis after ten years, and her not showing any recognition of caring about him, bothered him. But, he wouldn’t let her know that.

Ian walked away from the window and took his seat. He poured two cups of coffee and offered one to Alexis. Alexis took the cup and murmured thanks. She decided to wait until he was ready to speak. Ian finished his cup of coffee and began to speak.

I was very fond of Laine. I wouldn’t say it was love. I didn’t know her long enough. We were good together. We both knew what we wanted in life and we didn’t stand in each other’s way. We had a mutual respect for one another’s space. Neither one of us was jealous of the others’ past liaisons nor present. She was a very good friend. I miss her, Ian paused as if to compose himself and then his whole demeanor changed to that of an accomplished actor.

Well, let’s see, where was I? Oh, yes, Laine and I would go out together sometimes but that didn’t imply we would always come home with each other. Our relationship was a very open one. That night, Laine and I decided to check out this new club that opened up near us called Fizzles. We got there about 10:30 that night and we were having a good time. We were drinking and dancing, mingling with the crowd. You know, the kind of things you do at a club. I guess it was about 1AM when Laine hooked up with some guy she had met once before. She told me not to wait for her. She had a ride home. Laine and I got into a little arguement over this, because I was concerned about her leaving with someone she barely knew. After much coaxing, Laine assured me she’d be all right and I reluctantly gave in. I told her I’d see her when she got home. After that, I decided I was going to go home but just as I was leaving, this gorgeous blonde intercepted me. We got to talking. I had some more drinks and then it was time to go. I remembered getting up to leave but when I stood up, I became very dizzy and unbalanced. The blonde, who said her name was Crystal, helped me out of the club and offered to drive me home. I figured what the hell. I obviously wasn’t in any condition to drive, so, we got into her car. It was one of those foreign sport cars. Red, yeah, it was red.

Ian paused as if he was gathering his thoughts.

And, what happened next? pushed Alexis.

Ian looked at Alexis with a blank stare. I don’t know he said.

What do you mean, I don’t know? said Alexis.

Just what I said, I don’t know. I woke up the next morning in my bed with Laine shot to death next to me and cops bursting into my bedroom, Ian replied with a shrug.

That’s all? questioned Alexis.

That’s it said Ian, The cops arrested me and hauled me in. They charged me with murder two-a crime of passion; since the only motive they could come up with was jealousy and my alcohol level was high. Mr. Chaucer talked the judge into bail because I’m in the middle of a very expensive movie and the studio more or less said they would baby-sit me and be responsible for me. The judge ruled that I wasn’t a menace to society and because of my high profile, it would be extremly hard for me to hide. Your Mr. Chaucer is a very persuasive lawyer, who apparently has a lot of clout.

You’re extremely lucky; considering bail isn’t usually granted in a murder charge.

Lucky! Yeah, I guess so. Ian said sarcastically and then continued, I guess it’s better than sittting in jail but my assets are frozen and once the movie’s finished, I’m under house arrest with twenty-four hour survelliance.

Alexis sat there in thought, not uttering a word. She couldn’t believe her ears. Ian’s story didn’t make any sense. How does someone get so intoxicated that they can’t even stand up but yet they go home and commit murder. A lot of things did not add up. Even if he was capable of doing it, why didn’t he remember? Or was he lying? Alexis didn’t know what to think any more. After all, he tried to tell her the same story ten years ago about Lucinda. Was this just a convenient story line that he used to get himself out of trouble? She didn’t know. All she did know was that this wasn’t the carefree Ian Chambers that she knew so many years ago and loved. There was something complex and troubling about him. Her intuition told her that whatever it was, it went beyond being accused of murder.

A penny for your thoughts, joked Ian.

Oh, I’m sorry. I was just thinking about your story. It doesn’t quite add up said Alexis.

I know.It kind of reminds me of another time in my life, Ian stated with a lift of an eyebrow. All I’m sure of is that I did not kill Laine. I wouldn’t or couldn’t do it. She was too good of a friend." The words strained from Ian between clenched teeth.

Alexis was also thinking about a past time when Ian said he couldn’t remember anything. She wondered if he had some kind of disorder, you know, the kind where people black out and can’t remember a thing. She’d have to look into that but later. Right now she had a decision to make, would she or wouldn’t she take the case? She decided yes. It would be a challenge and deep down inside she could not believe that Ian was a murderer.

Well, will you take my case? Ian asked.

Yes. On your way out, please give Jill any phone numbers where I can contact you and set up an appointment for some time next week. I want to look over the police report and talk to my partners before we meet next.

Thank you, Alexis. I knew you wouldn’t let me down with that, Ian took Alexis’ hand in both of his, held on to it a little longer than neccessary, and walked out.

Alexis stared at the door for little while after he left. Well enough, she made a few more notations on her notes and then gathered up her papers. There was a lot of work to be done. She really had to think this one through. But first things first, Mr. Pete Holbrook and she needed a long talk. He wasn’t going to get away with this. She was still angry that he went behind her back and discussed her with Ian. She wanted to know exactly what they talked about and Pete was going to tell her, no matter what. Alexis dropped off her papers at her office and told Jill to hold her calls. She was going to Mr. Holbrook’s office and she did not want to be disturbed.

CHAPTER 3

Alexis stormed to Pete Holbrook’s office with the determination of a speeding train refusing to be derailed. She still couldn’t believe that Pete had spoken with Ian and never told her. Alexis had been with the firm of Holbrook, Shaney, and Chaucer since she graduated law school. They were a well-established firm; based out of New York, with offices in various key cities in the United States. When Alexis first started she had been nervous but determined to make a name for herself. And that she did. Her first two years brought the firm enormous revenues from her no-nonsense direct approach in the court room. She won almost every case she took. Her successful record came to the attention of Pete Holbrook rather quickly. For after all, it had been Pete who had hired her. From their first meeting, Pete had seen a certain determination, that bordered on arrogance, in Alexis that he knew would make her a great attorney. With the proper tutelage and guidance, Pete knew she would be an asset to the firm. For this reason, he took her under his wing. Alexis had been an avid and eager pupil and by her fifth year with the firm, they asked her to be a partner. She was thrilled. She knew Pete had probably pushed for it. For as well as being her mentor, Pete had become her friend; he was like a father to her, never telling her what to do, but just guiding. Alexis learned to trust Pete completely. She ended up telling him everything about herself; even her passionate relationship with Ian and their stormy break up. And, this was exactly why Alexis had a hard time conceiving that Pete wouldn’t have discussed his meeting with Ian with her.

Good afternoon, Ginny is Mr. Holbrook in? Alexis asked.

Good afternoon Ms. Morgan yes, he is ,but he left instructions that no one was to disturb him, replied Ginny.

Is he with a client? Alexis asked.

No, but….

Alexis just waved the rest of Ginny’s words away and said Good. Then he’ll see me. Don’t worry Ginny, I’ll take full responsibility for my intrusion. Alexis swept by Ginny who was stuttering by now and trying to get to her feet to stop her. Alexis pushed open the door with Ginny only a step behind her stammering, I’m so sorry, Mr. Holbrook. I tried to tell Ms. Morgan you didn’t want to be disturbed, but she….

Pete put up his hand as if to stop the two women storming into his office. It’s alright Ginny, I should have informed you that Ms. Morgan was probably going to come see me today. Ginny made a hasty retreat murmuring her apologizes to both Mr. Holbrook and Alexis. Alexis responded with a nod of her head and a raise of her eyebrow. After Ginny was safely out and the door was shut, Alexis turned to face Pete , who was trying to control his laughter.

Really Alexis, I think you almost gave our Miss Ginny a heart attack

She’s ferociously loyal to you, but I had to see you and since you weren’t with a client, I wasn’t going to give you the opportunity of putting me offreplied Alexis rather flippantly.

OH, and why would I put you off? What is so urgent that you need to speak with me right at this moment? asked Pete with a suppressed humor still in his voice.

Drop the charade, Pete you know why I’m here, said Alexis as she placed both her hands on his desk and leaned forward as if to accentuate her words.

Okay, Alexis, I can surmise that this has to do with your client this morning…

Alexis interrupted Pete, You’re damn straight, Pete…, but before she could finish, Pete interrupted her. Alexis, please, sit down. You’ll accomplish nothing like this. Remember, complete control at all times is the key to the upper hand. You know this. I’m suprised at you.

Don’t try turning the tables on me. I know you far to well for that trick to work.

Alexis Pete said a little sternly as he motioned to the chair, sit, and we will discuss what’s on your mind. A little more calmly perhaps." Alexis realized getting emotional over this was a waste of time. So, she composed herself and took a seat.

Pete took his seat and offered Alexis something to drink. She politely declined.

Alright Alexis, what seems to have gotten you in such an uproar? Other than the fact, that you’ve seen Ian after all these years, asked Pete.

Other than seeing him! I can’t believe you met with him before my meeting with him and didn’t tell me. Pete, we’re close friends, you could have told me you’d spoken with him and what you two had discussed. The words gushed forth from Alexis.

Slow down, Alexis Pete replied rather patiently. There wasn’t anything really to tell. He came, on the advice of a powerful studio bigwig, seeking council. He asked if you’d be avaible and or interested in taking his case. Naturally, I told him he’d have to speak with you, but if he was seeking the best, you were it. AND, you are.

And that was it?

"Yes, Alexis. Our meeting was very brief. I told him to speak with your secretary and set up an appointment. You were in court when he was here and by the time you had returned, I had already left for the day.

I didn’t see any urgency to call you at home last night and I assumed you had checked your appointments before you had left last night."

Well, I didn’t. It was very late by the time I got back. All I did was check for any important messages and dropped off some files. Jill was already gone by that time and I just went home. I didn’t see any need to check my appointments; considering that, I was coming in very early this morning to finish working on my briefs, Alexis commented rather dryly.

Alexis, what really is the problem? Was it that terrible? Ian is a very important individual, not to mention what the publicity can do for this firm. I’ve seen you face more terrifying and jeopardizing situations than this without even batting an eyelash.

Yes, but…. Alexis tried to defend herself but Pete quickly interrupted her.

But what, Alexis. This is different? I don’t understand. No, don’t try to speak, said Pete as he waved his hand at her into silence. You feel it is different because you were once involved with him? Well, we all have to face our dark clouds someday and he happens to be yours. You can not hide from whatever feelings you may have for him. I also felt it would do you some good to excise that storm cloud from you. Alexis, you’re an excellent attorney. One of the best I have seen in a long time but, there is more to life than just law. You have to live life to its fullest. All work and no play, well you know how it goes. I also know that part of the reason you pour yourself so much into your work is because of what happened between you and Ian so may years ago. Alexis tried to speak again but Pete wouldn’t let her. I’m almost finish with my little speech. Alexis, you’re still young and have so much yet to experience and feel—even if you don’t think so. I truly felt by facing Ian once and for all you would face down at least one of your dark clouds. And then, you could decide where to go with it. But let me warn you of this: If you decide to take this case—and I can see by the look in your eyes that you already have said yes—never one to let a challenge go by? Pete chuckled but continued on a more serious note, As I was saying, let me warn you, it better be kept on a strictly professional basis. If you feel that there may be any kind of problem between you two, let me know now and I’ll assign someone else to the case.

Alexis’ head shot up like a bullet. If looks could kill, Pete would have been dead and that’s exactly what Pete wanted from her. He wanted to see that determined set to her jaw, as if she was saying, nothing or no one can stop her.

Pete you know me better than that. My professional behavior is beyond reproach. And, as far as my capability as a lawyer is concerned, I think my record speaks for itself . I can handle this case and you know it, or you wouldn’t have set me up the way you did.

Exactly! Now you’re talking like the Alexis I know, Pete said with a twinkle in his eye.

But what about your conflicting emotions?

I’d be lying to myself as well as you if I say he didn’t affected me. He did. More than I thought he would. But what’s past is past, and we’re in the present now. Life goes on. I’m his attorney and he’s my client. Period! declared Alexis.

Good. Now, what do you think about the case? How are you going to precede?

Well, first I have to get our California office to fax me a copy of the police report and then go over it with Ian. I know eventually I’ll have to go to California and work out of our office there. I’m sure John will be more than willing to help me with the case. Don’t you think? mused Alexis.

Yes. John Chaucer is an excellent attorney, as well as a partner. He can supply you with what ever you need while you’re out there.

I thought as much. Alexis got up and walked over to the window. It was still raining but it was showing signs of easing up. You know, Pete, I love the rain. It’s nature’s way of cleansing the skies of all its impurities. You know, that’s why it always smells so fresh after it rains. Too bad life’s impurities can’t be washed away so easily.

Pete knew that this morning’s meeting had to have been extremely difficult for Alexis, but she got through it and all the better for it. He would give her the respect and space that she deserved. He wouldn’t push her to speak about it, but he’d be there for her if she needed him and he knew she knew that.

Alexis turned from the window and it was business as usual. This case is very puzzling, Alexis began Ian claims he doesn’t remember a thing after he left the bar. You know, Pete, he claimed the same thing to me the morning I caught him with Lucinda. I wonder, now, if it’s possible that Ian suffers from some kind of black outs.

That could be possible. You might want Ian to go under a complete physical to see if there is anything medically or mentally wrong with him, Pete stated.

Hmm, I thought the same thing, but it’s really a waste of time speculating right now, until I get more facts. I really should be going. There’s a million things I’ve got to get done before I leave for California. I’m really sorry about earlier said Alexis with a sheepish smile.

No need to apologize. Just remember control is…

I know, I know, control is the key to the upper hand. Thanks ,Pete, I’ll keep you apprised of the situation as I go along and I’ll let you know when I’m leaving for California. Alexis quietly shut the door behind her, as Pete said good bye and went back to his work.

It was late in the afternoon and the rain had stopped. Alexis sent Jill home and decided to call it a day. It had been a long emotional day for her and all she wanted to do was go home and soak in a nice hot bath. She put on her rain coat, gathered up her possessions, and left. Since her car was in the shop, she asked Joe the doorman to send one of the company’s limos around.

Oh, Ms. Morgan. There’s no need for that. The gentleman over there is waiting for you and since I saw him talking with Mr. Holbrook the other day and he did use one of our limos, I didn’t think it was necessary.

Who? asked Alexis