The Golden Girl

By Evelyn B. Schaefer

A life of fame and glamour cannot erase a shameful secret that threatens to expose her past and destroy her future. And the man that created and molded her and should have been her protector becomes the one person she fears the most.

• Language: English
• Publisher: LifeRich Publishing
• Release date: Dec 11, 2017
• ISBN: 9781489714169

Evelyn B. Schaefer

This is Evelyn B. Schaefer’s first published novel. She holds a degree from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and has held a career in retail and fashion. Evelyn resides in Southern California.

Book preview

Chapter 1

A DUSKY MIST HAD SETTLED OVER the sky, shrouding buildings and trees in a filmy veil, adding a degree of eeriness to a night already filled with apprehension. From a motel room window, Sidney Austin stood peering out, old worn drapes pushed aside, waiting for the next car to pull into the motel parking lot. Her body was tense with the strain of emotions that had ravaged her entire being for days now. Fear, anticipation and deep foreboding had alternately swept through her until she felt she couldn’t possibly think clearly ever again. She wished that she could numb her mind, pack up her emotions and push them to the side where they wouldn’t get in the way. But she supposed it was these very emotions that had driven her these past months, given her the strength to come to this point. Hate, love, fear and hope. These emotions had finally surfaced from her apathy and reawakened her sense of survival, which had once carried her all the way to stardom.

She thought of her success that had ended up costing her so much and if it was going to be all over now. If all her energy, hard work, and sacrifice was going to be snuffed out overnight. It was such a bitter thought she had to push it out of her mind and concentrate on what she had traded it for. What she had painfully discovered were far more valuable. Love and freedom.

She turned from the window and paced across the faded brown speckled carpet once again, stopping in front of the cheap painting that hung on the wall. She stared blankly, not caring that she had left behind priceless works of art and extravagantly woven rugs that spread across rooms of lavish furnishings. It just didn’t matter anymore, perhaps had never really mattered except maybe in the beginning, when it was all so wonderfully new and exciting. For now she just wanted to be free. Free from all the wealth and everything that went with it. For now she would be content to live in orange and brown rooms with faded and peeling wallpaper.

The white plastic clock that stood on the small night table read just after 10:00 p.m. She felt a small whirlwind of panic rise up from her stomach spreading through her torso, tightening around the muscles in her neck and constricting her throat. What if he didn’t show up? Then there would be nothing. Then every last ounce of courage would scatter in the wind and she would not be able to go on. He was the one who had given her the courage and the strength to fight for her freedom against a brutally awesome power. He was the one who had shown her what love could really be like. He was right now her reason for living. Sidney felt the panic surge up and threaten to overtake her.

Outside, the parking lot remained wrapped in fog. The moisture from the ocean rolled in thick waves to blanket the city on many such summer nights. Tonight it only increased Sidney’s anxiety. Once again she pressed her face up against the glass, trying to make out every passing car, hoping with every glare of headlights

that it would be the car that she was waiting for. He had said between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m. She should give him time. After all, it was a long drive, lots of traffic. Then again, something could have gone wrong. A million things could have gone wrong. The plan was risky, complicated. A lot was at stake. Their lives were at stake. The fear she had tried to stifle was back, snaking it’s way to the surface with a vengeance and she finally allowed herself to acknowledge it.

What if Mark wasn’t coming? What if it had all been too much? What if the sacrifice wasn’t worth it to him? She couldn’t even blame him if he backed out. Why should he give up everything he had worked for just to free her from a life she had willingly stepped into?

God, she was so ashamed of herself. Sometimes she felt like she was looking back at someone else’s life. Surely she couldn’t have been so naïve and self absorbed. Away from Edward she felt like a different person. One that couldn’t believe what she had really let happen. But as she shook the remnants of painful memories from the recesses of her mind she faced the current situation and felt a sharp stab of fear. She couldn’t do this alone. As bad as that sounded she knew it was true. The only way she had been able to come this far was because of Mark. His strength, his commitment, his unconditional love had made it all seem possible. The fact that he was going to be there for her, by her side, buffering all the pain and calming her fears had given her the courage to step into the frightening unknown. Without him, she thought, spreading her hands across her knees, she could never possibly continue. And she had come too far to turn back, even though it wasn’t an option. By now Edward would have discovered his missing Ferrari … and his missing wife.

She closed her eyes and rocked forward, her hands clasped between her knees. What was she going to do? She had never known such panic. Even at her very worst she had never felt this kind of stifling fear. She had heard of people having anxiety attacks. And as she felt her throat constricting, her lungs painfully empty of oxygen; she thought she surely must be having one. Or else she was having a heart attack because she couldn’t quite get the air into her lungs; no matter how hard she inhaled. And she could hear herself, hear the heaving, gasping sounds she was making. She was going to die. The thought flashed through her mind. And she was all alone. It could take days before someone would find her in this crummy old motel room. She slid to the floor and crumpled into a little heap, too overwhelmed with fear to cry, too filled with disbelief to move.

It was the climactic end to an adult life that had begun with such hope and was now ending with such despair. She couldn’t endure Edward any longer, yet she couldn’t fight him. It was over and the many ways to achieve that end filled her mind as it had so often before. Contemplating suicide had become a regular pastime for her in the last few years. She was familiar with the vast array of choices and they no longer depressed her. They seemed a reasonable end to a miserable existence and the only reason she hadn’t taken part in one or more of them in the past was her own cowardice. Until recently she had been afraid of everything. Only Mark had been able to give her the strength to hope. To fight against what seemed insurmountable odds. And there lay her problem. Her source of strength, her means to happiness was suddenly gone.

Sydney lay curled in a ball. She concentrated on her breathing, her lungs stretching for air that did not come. She thought of Mark, slowly comprehending the extent of his betrayal. This transfixed her. So much so, that she didn’t hear the engine of the car that pulled up outside the window. Or the flood of light that momentarily passed through the thin weave of the drapes. The soft, discreet knock on the door went unnoticed until it became louder and more insistent. Sidney started, and then turned her head towards the door. When she got up to open it she felt her mind start to focus and as she swung the door open relief flooded her whole being, sending her to her knees.

The tall figure in the doorway caught her in his arms and inhaled sharply with concern.

Sidney, what’s wrong? Half carrying her into the room he sat her on the bed and stroked her pale blond hair back from her face. Sidney, please baby, what happened?

She was crying. His face blurred in front of her. Oh god Mark. You’re so late. I didn’t think you were coming.

Shush baby. It’s all right. Of course I would come. He cradled her in his arms, soothing her, frightened at her emotional state. "I love you. You know I’d be here. I’m sorry I’m late. There were just so many things to take care of.

I know. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I was just so scared Mark. She sniffled into his shoulder, her sobs turning to hiccups as she regained control over her emotions. She looked at him. His handsome face with the slightly crooked nose that had been broken years ago. She ran her finger over his lean square jaw line. Touched the crinkles at the side of his soft grey green eyes. Her doubts now seemed ludicrous. She could always trust him.

As she leaned back against his shoulder, letting him softly stroke the back of her head she knew that he was the strength she needed to build a new life. The thought was both comforting and frightening; for once again her fate lay in the hands of a man.

Chapter 2

S IDNEY WOKE UP TO THE sounds of traffic that seemed to permeate the thin motel room walls. Her head throbbed and her eyes burned, reminding her of her turbulent emotional night. Crying like that always made her eyes puffy the next day and she hadn’t washed her makeup off. She knew she probably looked a mess. Turning slightly she looked at Mark next to her still asleep. She didn’t get to wake up with him very often. It was an amazing feeling.

She now could wake up with him every morning and the thought reminded her of what they were actually going to do today. She shook his arm gently.

Mark, wake up, she looked over at the white plastic clock that had been so frightening the night before. It’s almost eight o’clock.

His eyes snapped open. Eight o’clock! Shit, we were going to be out of here by seven. He rubbed his eyes and face then leaned over to kiss her. Hurry up, get your things together. I’m going to check us out and then we have to drop off the rental car.

A small thrill ran through her. They were actually going to do this. All their plans were going into action. And suddenly she was awake and alive. She felt a surge of energy and an almost overwhelming tenderness as she looked at Mark. He was really doing all this for her. Just so that he could free her and live his life with her. It seemed too good to be true. After all the years of unhappiness, was she really going to get her share of love?

She slipped on jeans and a tee shirt and pulled her hair back into a ponytail. After washing her face she left it free of makeup. It was a liberating feeling, and would also make her less recognizable.

While Mark took care of checking them out Sidney grabbed the one bag she had brought in from the car, but before opening the door she peered cautiously out the window. She really didn’t know what she expected to see but she knew she wouldn’t rest easy until they had crossed the border and were well on their way into Mexico. She felt sure that they had covered their tracks well and that Edward wouldn’t be able to find them, at least not that quickly. And by then she would be free of Edward with Mark by her side. The thought made her move quickly, eager to be on their way. She left the motel room and threw her bag into the trunk of the newly purchased used Toyota.

After checking them out Mark got into the rental car and Sidney climbed in behind the wheel of the Toyota. With large dark sunglasses covering most of her face Sidney felt she wasn’t too recognizable. She followed him to the rental car drop off and waited while he paid off the rental fee keeping her face turned away from the window. She slid over to the passenger side when he got into the car.

We’ll need to get food Mark, I’m starving. How about you?

We’ll stop at a grocery store before crossing the border. You make a list of what we’ll need and I’ll get it. Stay low in the car. I don’t want anyone seeing you."

Sidney made a quick list and handed it to Mark as he pulled into the parking lot of an older looking Safeway. He took the list and looked it over quickly.

Uh, Sidney, this looks like the dinner menu for the rich and famous. I’m afraid we’re going to have to stick to basics, nothing fancy, watch our cash. And we don’t have a fridge, just the little cooler in the back.

Sorry, I don’t do much grocery shopping. Just get what you think we’ll need. I don’t need fancy. She smiled at him in the way that always made him melt. He leaned over, giving her a quick kiss.

I’ll be right back. Lock the door. And keep your face down. He disappeared into the grocery store and Sidney locked all the doors and slid lower in her seat. This far into San Diego and so close to the Mexican border she felt pretty sure that no one would recognize her, but her pale blond hair made her feel pretty conspicuous. To distract herself while she waited for Mark she surveyed the interior of the car. She hadn’t been in the frame of mind yesterday to really look at it. Now she took in the frayed seats and slightly scratched dash. It was a far cry from what she was used to but it would get them to where they were going with less attention. Mark had bought the 1978 white Toyota because it had been inexpensive and he could pay cash. It had new tires and a good engine. It was a little banged up on the outside and the inside was somewhat worn but it really didn’t matter, and if Edward was to come looking for her, this was the least likely car he would expect to find her in.

When Mark returned he filled the cooler and put the nonperishable items in the trunk. They stopped for gas and Mark pointed to the Jack in the Box fast food restaurant across the street.

We’ll get breakfast there

Hamburgers? She asked.

They have breakfast too. Ever had a breakfast burrito? He whipped the car into the drive through entrance.

No, order for me please. Whatever you think I’ll like.

He grinned. Ok baby, you are going to have one taste sensation like you’ve never had.

Minutes later the smell of spicy egg and bean burritos and steaming coffee filled the small car and when Sidney bit into the soft food, her hunger sent her appetite into overdrive. Oh my god, this is delicious!

Mark smiled. I’m glad you like it cause you’ll be eating a lot of these for awhile.

Mark drove while they ate and before long the border separating California from Mexico was on the horizon.

This is it Sidney, no turning back now. His tone was grim, serious but determined.

Sidney looked straight ahead. The decision for her had been made a long time ago. Once she had made that first step she knew it was her final decision. But she still wondered about Mark. His sacrifice was huge. Was he having regrets? Turning to look at him she studied his firm, slightly whiskered chin. And what about you Mark? There’s still time for you to turn back. I don’t want to ruin your life. Even though she knew what his answer would be she felt herself subconsciously holding her breath. Those were brave words. She knew she would not be able to do this alone"

His hand reached out and grabbed hers without taking his eyes off the road. And how many times do I have to tell you that you are my life?

She clasped his hand in hers and they were silent as they crossed the border into Tijuana. On either side of the road, native Mexicans stood five deep eyeing the American border where patrol guards drove slowly back and forth. These people would attempt to sneak through, looking for a better life. Most would not make it. It all looked terribly depressing to Sidney. The sudden difference of the landscape between San Diego and Tijuana was like two different worlds. Heaps of rusted junked cars were strewn about haphazardly, forgotten and left to create a bizarre landscape. She couldn’t wait to get deeper into Mexico. She had been to Acapulco, Mazatlan and Cancun and knew how beautifully lush and serene it could be. She was anxious and impatient to move fast, still feeling the long, manipulative hands of Edward tapping on her back. She settled in her seat, knowing it was going to be a very long drive.

Chapter 3

T HE INTENSE SUMMER SUN AND its’ enveloping heat went unnoticed in the slick 15 floor penthouse office that overlooked Hollywood. The climate control created such a comfortable atmosphere that it was with some degree of surprise that the occupants would notice the heat visibly shimmering off the baking pavement below.

Edward Harris had no time or patience for the heat. He took his private elevator to the underground parking, climbed into his Rolls Royce with the automatically set temperature control and drove home in elegant comfort. He could only view the effects of such heat with distaste. The dampness gathering around the collar of his perfectly tailored imported cotton shirts. The sticky creasing of his suit, tailored for him by the most prestigious London tailors who fitted him with painstaking accuracy every time he visited on his many trips abroad. He refused to be caught wiping his brow or looking uncomfortable in any way. He could not tolerate anything that would mar the image that he had so carefully cultivated these many years.

Edward Harris was not just a rich man. His wealth exceeded the normal definition of rich and was only surpassed by the power he wielded. He held the fate of hundreds of actors, actresses, directors and politicians in his hand not to mention the thousands of less public professionals that he rarely deigned to acknowledge.

He was viewed by the world as the man who had everything. At 52 years old he was very handsome, had a full head of slightly graying hair, the health and vigor of a much younger man, elaborate estates all over the world, and a famous and intoxicatingly beautiful young wife. The fact that he had no children was forgotten in the bright glow of his aura. This image of a perfect man living a perfect life was one he had cultivated over the years and which helped considerably in his quest for greater power. Those that knew him well would admit that he had a very obsessive nature, but those few would admit it only to themselves.

Control was really the key word that would describe what drove Edward Harris. He wanted, needed and expected complete control over every aspect of his life and in many cases other people’s lives as well. This morning there was only one area in his life that he was not satisfied with and as he strode into his 15th floor penthouse office he knew that he would be disturbed the entire day unless he exercised his control in this area immediately. Walking by the desk of his personal secretary he paused before her briefly and smiled.

Good morning Mr. Harris. How was your meeting?

Good morning Angela, It was productive. Would you please get me Joe Hastings on the phone? As usual his secretary was dressed to perfection. Fashionable, professional, yet not too sexy.

Of course, right away. Angela was used to his daily scrutiny. As charming as he could be he didn’t miss a trick. She didn’t know what she would do if she ever read anything other than approval on his face. The thought was frightening. Walking behind him into his office she set his messages on his desk and picked up the phone. She knew that Joe Hastings was a private investigator that Mr. Harris frequently spoke with but she had no clue in what capacity. It wasn’t unusual for a man in Edward Harris’ position to employ people to watch his back or even be bodyguards. Not unusual at all.

As soon as she got Joe Hastings on the phone she put him on hold and quietly left the room, closing the door behind her.

A booming voice came through the receiver. Mr. Harris, how are you this morning?

I need an update right away. Who do you have on it? Edward did not waste his charm on just anyone.

There was a pause on the other end. Give me a sec to check… yea, got Rick Johnson on it. Why, is there a problem? I can call his car phone, see what’s up, hold on a minute.

Edward waited impatiently, feeling the tension in his neck. Damn her, he thought, clenching his teeth. She’d been acting so strange this morning. He needed to know what she was up to.

Joe came back on the line Mr. Harris? He says he followed her to that large shopping mall in Century City. She went into one of the stores, seemed to be doing her usual shopping so he went back to the car to wait for her.

Edward ran his palm over the back of his head, smoothing any stray steely gray hairs. Tell him to stay on her. Watch her car no matter how long she takes.

Will do Mr. Harris. If there are any changes I’ll get to you right away.

Edward hung up without saying goodbye. He felt some of his irritation dissipate and he rolled his head, loosening up his neck. He felt satisfied that he had everything under control. She was obsessed with shopping and could spend hours at the stores before coming home. He