The Edge: Part IV

By Hilda A. Stephens

“The Edge” is thrilling, sensational, rippling and provocative. A novel of deceit, betrayal, blackmail and love that is bound to keep you on the edge of your seat and eyes glued to every page.
The madness does end. The table turns and the fire gets hotter. So how far will Nathan Tidwell go to prove his love to the beautiful Sheena Jackson Albright, while pushing his wife (Shavonna Tidwell) close to the edge in destroying the Albrights’ family?
It all depends on what’s in store. But the choices made could ruin friendships, relationships, trust, and integrity. “The Edge” will blow your mind as Judge Marco Albright tries to understand why this is happening again.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Feb 17, 2016
• ISBN: 9781514452615

Hilda A. Stephens

Hilda A. Stephens is a published author of two books: “God is This my Man” and “God is This my Man part 2 The Saga Continues.” Hilda is a graduate of Ashworth University with a degree in Psychology and certification in writing children’s books. Hilda’s gift has inspired her to write four children book, three stage plays and thirty-five song lyrics. Hilda is the mother of one daughter, Latesha, son-in-law Terrance and three grandchildren MonTerris, Shayla and Jahvon. Hilda resides in Durham, North Carolina.

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Copyright © 2016 by Hilda A. Stephens.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Rev. date: 04/06/2016

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CONTENTS

Sheena’s Breakdown

Myles Brandon Albright- 1st Birthday Party

Telephone Call

The New Assistant

The Plan

The Talk

Two Weeks before Judge Albright Retires

One Week before Retirement Party

Marco’s Retirement Party

The trip to Paris, France

Sheena’s Trip to California

The Trip to Bermuda

Shavonna’s Dilemma

Three Weeks Before The Wedding of Patrice Albright

Who Playing Games

It’s Over Now

The Wedding of Paris and Patrice

The Secret Revealed

SHEENA’S BREAKDOWN

T he Albrights’ house is busy. Marco is in the final stage of his retirement and the party is planned. Marco can’t wait to come home to be with his family. Sheena has no plan at all, she is cold and distant right down to baby Myles.

Everything gets on Sheena nerves. Sheena sits upstairs on the fourth level of the house alone. Marco gives Sheena the time he thinks she needs to pull herself together. It’s been nine months and Marco is exhausted working, taking care of the children, cooking, cleaning, and shopping.

The work is too much for Marco, so he hires a nanny but Sheena has nothing to do with her. Marco constantly calls home checking in, but he gets the same story every day. Mrs. Albright is resting or asleep and don’t want to be disturbed.

There is something seriously wrong with Sheena. Marco believes that Sheena is suffering from some type of depression, so Marco makes an appointment with Dr. Delray. It seems like everything in the Albright’s house went downhill when Attorney Nathan Tidwell left Washington DC.

All, Marco knows, he wants his wife back and will do whatever it takes to make Sheena happy. It’s Friday, MJ and Joanna are babysitting the children for the weekend allowing Marco and Sheena to spend some quality time alone.

Marco prepares a marvelous candlelight dinner. Sheena is upstairs getting ready for Marco’s surprise. She is not in the mood and doesn’t feel beautiful, so she struggles trying to find something to wear. Sheena takes a look in the mirror and stare at the woman she doesn’t recognizes.

Sheena’s hair is matted to the back of her head, pale face, and dark circles under her eyes. She can’t remember the last shower or if she brushed her teeth today. Sheena is a mess. She realizes something seriously is going on and she can’t wait to talk with Dr. Delray about the results.

Marco is hopeful and believes that once Sheena is dressed the atmosphere will change her mood. It’s been difficult for Marco, but he continues to support his wife for the sake of his family but something must change soon. Marco doesn’t know how long he will last.

Sheena removes from her closet a flowing yellow chiffon halter dress. She places it on the bed along with sexy metallic silver pumps and multi-colored jewelry. She thinks to herself I hope this turns Marco on. She heads for the shower. It takes Sheena 30 minutes just to wash her hair and the smell is awful.

Marco has everything ready. He takes a glance in the mirror hoping Sheena will like what she sees. Tonight, Marco plans to get the spark back in the bedroom. Marco dresses in a beige suit, silk pinstriped shirt and alligator shoes hoping it’s enough to dazzle Sheena.

Sheena takes her time while adding the finishing touch to her makeup. She slips on the halter dress and adds her multi- colored jewelry and decides to do something different with her hair. Instead of the old up-do, Sheena curls her hair leaving it flowing and bouncy. She takes another look in the mirror and is pleased with the outcome.

Sheena is nervous, it’s like a first date, but the girl is pulling out all of the stops. Sheena applies some gold shimmer perfume to her neck and arms knowing this should get Marco’s attention and adds a new nude lip gloss. She turns off the light and makes her way down the stairs.

Marco sets the atmosphere, adjusts the lights, turns down the music and lights the fireplace. Sheena enters the hallway, there’s only enough light to walk down the stairs. It’s like walking in the moonlight, how romantic. Marco waits at the end of the stairs.

Sheena is indeed breathtaking, Marco is speechless. He takes Sheena’s hand and compliments on how beautiful she looks before removing the chair for Sheena to sit. Sheena is poised. Marco doesn’t know what to expect so he tries to follow Sheena’s lead. Sheena smiles and begins the conversation.

Marco, I love you and this night is very special to me. Thank you for being here for me. I want you to know that I’m not taking you for granted but. Sheena begins to tear up.

I understand. Let’s not talk about this now. Can we just enjoy tonight?

Sheena quickly agrees.

Would you like a glass of champagne? It’s very lite.

That would be nice Marco.

Marco serves Sheena a glass of champagne, he quickly makes a toast. To the most beautiful woman in the world that I love with all my heart, this toast is to our future and success.

Before Marco could finish the toast Sheena interrupts. Marco, I was thinking about going back to school.

I see and what do you plan to study?

I don’t know yet, but I hope something exciting.

Marco continues to listen. Could you please tell me what brought this on?

I have nothing to do.

You are a mother and we do have a nine month old son and two very active twins.

That’s all you think of me, a mother?

Sheena, please, being a mother is an important part of our lives.

I’m sorry Marco, I need more.

I understand. We will work something out. Marco notices that Sheena’s mood changes immediately and he needs to get a handle on things quickly. Sheena is quiet and begins to mumble.

I need more than keeping a baby all day.

Marco can’t believe what he hears. That’s our son you are referring to.

Sheena goes into a rage. Marco, do I look stupid who else I’m I talking about. It’s your son, his name is Myles. Do I need to make myself clearer? I knew this wouldn’t work, please excuse me.

No, Sheena! Marco yells. I don’t know what’s wrong with you, but I will not allow you to belittle me about my own flesh and blood. Damn it, Sheena sometimes I think you enjoy provoking the hell out of me.

And your point, Marco?

What do you want from me Sheena?

Nothing damn it, leave me alone!

Marco sits back in the chair. The night is not turning out the way he planned.

Marco, Sheena softy speaks. I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to ruin tonight.

Marco doesn’t respond, he can’t figure out what’s going on in Sheena’s head. Marco is at the end of the road. He leaves the room to make a call to MJ, leaving Sheena alone to cool down.

Hello.

Hello son, how are the children?

Dad, they are fine. Why are you calling? Is something wrong?

No son, everything is fine.

Are you sure dad, you don’t sound too excited about your dinner date.

All is well MJ. I’m just checking in.

Dad, please try to enjoy tonight. Joanna and I are having a great time. Myles is asleep and we are playing a board game with Kylan and Karlyn.

Thanks son, for taking on so much responsibility.

No problem dad. I’m only practicing for my family.

Are you trying to tell me something MJ?

Good night dad.

Good night son. Marco closes the phone. His mind goes back on Sheena, little does he know that Mrs. Albright is standing right behind him totally nude. Marco quickly turns. Sheena! What are you doing?

Please make love to me.

Marco takes a deep breath. Sheena moves closer to Marco and begins to undress him. Marco grabs Sheena’s hands.

Are you sure this is what you want?

I’m sure, Sheena smiles.

Marco has no idea what to think. Sheena continues to undress Marco. Sheena is in control and the way she makes love to Marco leaves him hypnotized. Marco is more than satisfied, he is downright puzzled. Sheena quickly asks, Are you please or do you want more?

Marco answers, What’s going on Sheena?

Sheena removes the sheet from the bed and heads to the shower. Marco catches his breath he’s perplexed and doesn’t know what’s going on with Sheena. Marco takes his time but finally enters the shower.

What took you so long? Marco doesn’t answer, he quietly washes Sheena’s back. Sheena turns. Did I do something wrong, I thought you would be pleased. Isn’t this the type of woman you want?

Marco can’t take any more. Sheena something is wrong. I want my wife back. One minute you make love to me like a mad woman and the next minute you don’t want to have anything to do with me. Please make me understand what is going on with you.

Sheena giggles. Marco I’m fine.

No Sheena, something is wrong. Marco could see the look in Sheena’s eyes she is not pleased with all of his questions.

Can’t we enjoy tonight?

Yes Sheena.

Will you hold me Marco?

Yes, baby as long as you like.

I like that.

Sheena curls up in Marco’s arms. It’s not long before Sheena is sound asleep. Marco moves Sheena from his arms and covers her up. He immediately leaves the bedroom wondering, and thinking, what is going on with his wife.

Marco can’t sleep his mind continues to replay the incident. He searches for answers. Its late, Marco wants some rest. Still can’t sleep, he goes upstairs and peeks in the bedroom. Sheena is sound asleep.

Sheena’s behavior has Marco puzzled. He picks up his cell phone and dials the only person he knows who can advise him. A strong and powerful voice answers hello.

Dr. Chavez, this is.

Judge Albright is something wrong?

I’m afraid so Dr. Chavez.

Where are you son?

I’m at home. Could you please wait a minute, I don’t want to disturb my wife. I’m going to my office.

I’ll wait Judge. What happen tonight?

I really don’t know where to begin. It’s my wife, something is seriously wrong. Sheena has not been herself in over nine months. I was hoping things would have change by now, but things are worst.

What things son?

I don’t know my wife anymore.

Could you please elaborate on your statement?

"Well sir, Sheena wants nothing to do with our son and sometimes its days before she gets out of bed. Sheena stays on the fourth level of the house most of the time, but tonight I witnessed something so bazaar. Sheena and I had a disagreement, she went into a rage.

I excuse myself from the room, giving Sheena time to calm down. I call my son to see how the children were doing. After I had finished the call there stood Sheena, nude asking me to make love to her. It was like day and night and when she made love to me it was like making love to a different woman. Don’t get me wrong I was more than pleased but."

What is it, Judge Albright?

This is not Sheena’s behavior.

Judge Albright maybe your wife wanted to please you.

No this is too far out of the box. This is not my wife.

I see. Do you want to make an appointment?

Yes, Sheena respects you and I know you may be able to get through to Sheena.

I can arrange to meet with you in the morning at 9:00am.

Thank you Dr. Chavez. I’ll be waiting. Marco returns back to the bedroom, Sheena is awake.

Marco, what are you doing up?

I’m sorry baby, I can’t sleep.

Marco get over here, lay down next to me. Marco is surprised. Sheena seems to be her old self again. Marco removes his slippers and crawls in the bed next to his wife. Sheena strokes Marco’s back he soon drifts off to sleep.

Sheena is up early preparing breakfast. It’s 7:00am. Marco is still asleep. Sheena makes a call to MJ to check in on the children.

Hello, the sleepyhead MJ answers.

Good Morning, MJ. I hope Myles didn’t keep you up last night.

No the children are fine. Why are you up so early Sheena?

I miss Myles. This is his first time being away from me.

I know Myles misses you too. Is dad up?

No, your father couldn’t sleep for some reason.

Did you have a good time?

Yes and no.

I won’t ask. MJ laughs.

Marco and I will come and get the children today. Thank you for babysitting.

What happen? I’m supposed to bring the children back on Sunday if you are okay with this.

I’m sorry, if this is what Marco worked out with you, its’ fine.

Its’ fine with me Sheena, we will see you on Sunday. Sheena closes the cell phone and proceeds to the shower. Marco is sound asleep. Sheena takes a long hot relaxing bath. Marco is up now looking for Sheena.

Sheena, where are you? Sheena is in her favorite spot, the fourth level of the house. Marco makes his way upstairs and knocks on the door.

Sheena.

I’m in here Marco, good morning. Did you sleep well?

Yes and how are you this morning?

"I’m fine. I miss Myles and the twins.

You do Sheena.

Marco, what kind of question is that. I miss my children. I called MJ and he informs me that he would bring the children home on Sunday.

Is that okay with you?

Sure that gives us some time together. What would you like to do for the rest of the day?

Marco answers slowly. Sheena there is something you need to know. I asked Dr. Chavez to come over this morning. Marco waits for Sheena’s response.

Good, breakfast is prepared. Marco we still have time…

Marco stares. What Sheena?

Sheena pulls Marco in the bathtub. Let’s make love.

Are you sure Sheena?

I’m sure.

Once again sparks are flying around the Albrights’ house. It’s just like old times. Marco is amazed at Sheena’s recovery but still has no idea what’s going on. Sheena returns to the kitchen the house is cleaned from top to bottom. Sheena cooks the eggs while Marco escorts Dr. Chavez in.

Good Morning.

Good morning, Dr. Chavez. Welcome to our home. Sheena yells.

Thank you for having me over.

Please have a seat. Would you like a cup of coffee?

That would be fine. Marco, thank you kindly.

Please Marco I will get Dr. Chavez’s coffee. Marco quickly steps back, watching his wife, he still is not sure what to think.

Dr. Chavez asks how the children are. Sheena quickly turns. Myles is a handful along with the twins. I have been overwhelmed and depressed. Marco couldn’t believe how open Sheena is. I moved to the fourth level of the house trying hard not to disrupt my family but I soon had to come to a conclusion I was losing my husband along with my family."

I see, please tell me more Sheena.

"Things got so bad. Marco, my wonderful husband, had to hire a nanny. I made sure Jeannie wouldn’t tell my husband what was going on for the last nine months. I have been receiving counseling and treatment. I had postpartum depression. It can typically affect women after childbirth.

There were days when I couldn’t get out of the bed. That’s when I did most of my praying. Marco had too many things going on for me to interrupt him. I knew he was there for me and that was all that matter. My mother and Mrs. Albright were my support group they came over every day and I made sure they were gone before the children and Marco got home.

I’m much better now. Marco, I ask for your forgiveness but I want to thank you for inviting Dr. Chavez over this morning. This is the first time I have been able to talk about this with my husband. Dr. Chavez, just your presence in our home made me know we would be all right. Marco is incredible and he always amazes me. It’s been a long road to recover. Thank you for loving me."

Marco is so relieved; he gives Sheena a big kiss. Dr. Chavez prays a blessing for Marco and Sheena and over the home. They continue the conversation over breakfast. Dr. Chavez leaves but promises to return with his wife on the next visit.

Marco removes the dishes from the table while Sheena prepares a fruit salad for later. Marco can’t wait to ask Sheena the question that’s brewing in his mind. Marco and Sheena meet in the entertainment room for some relaxation. He puts in a CD and asks Sheena to dance. Sheena is more than willing but wants to get comfortable first. Marco agrees, but when sexy Sheena returns it’s more than Marco expects.

Sheena calls for Marco, he turns and there stands Mrs. Albright in a silk satin red laced teddy showing off every curve. Marco’s mouth flies open, he can’t believe what he sees. My goodness Sheena what are you trying to do to me? Sheena blinks her big brown eyes and responds, Nothing, let’s finish were we left off last night.

Sheena please have a seat, you are more than beautiful but there is something I must ask.

Is something wrong Marco?

No. I might sound like a fool for asking this but…

What Marco, Sheena runs her fingers through Marco’s thick wavy hair.

Sheena, Marco pauses, We don’t plan on having any more children, right?

That’s right and you don’t have to worry about that.

Good. Could you please explain to me what’s going on with you?

Marco, don’t be silly, nothing. I want to please my husband.

I know but you are out of the box.

And that’s a good thing, just enjoy me.

I do but you are always so calm and now you are… How should I say this.

Marco stop being ridiculous. I’m your wife and things have changed. I love you and I want to make you happy.

I know sweetheart, I’m more than pleased. Marco and Sheena have a very good weekend.

MYLES BRANDON ALBRIGHT- 1ST BIRTHDAY PARTY

S heena is back and running things with the help of Jeannie her personal nanny. She has a list of things to do for Myles’ birthday party. Today Sheena plans to surprise her husband with a lunch date. Court is heavy and busy but Sheena knows this is what her husband needs to relieve some of the stress.

Hello Margo.

Mrs. Albright, It’s a pleasure to see you today. How are the children?

The children are fine. Can you believe that Myles’ birthday is in a few weeks?

No way, Myles will be celebrating his first birthday.

That’s right. I can’t wait.

What brings you to the courthouse today Mrs. Albright?

I came to surprise my husband for a lunch date. Marco has been so busy trying to wrap things up. I hope Marco is available.

It will do Judge Albright good to leave the courthouse today. Do you have any plans and how much time do you need?

I made reservations at the Hot Spot for noon.

That’s good you can wait in Judge Albright’s chamber, court will be over in fifteen minutes.

Thanks Margo. Please don’t tell Marco I’m here.

Sheena takes a seat in Marco’s chamber she begins to read the mail on Marco’s desk, there is a letter that catches her attention. Sheena turns to the door and pulls the letter from the stack of mail. The letter is from Nathan Tidwell but no return address.

Sheena couldn’t believe how long it’s been since she has heard or seen Nathan Tidwell. So much has happen, Sheena dealing with her own problems, taking care of Myles and Marco’s retirement party. Sheena loses track of time. She holds the letter close to her heart, desperately wanting to open it but knows Marco would be furious, she returns the letter back to the stack of mail.

Court is over until 1:00 pm. Sheena could hear the chatting in the hallway along with the voice of Judge Marco Albright. As he greets colleagues, Marco stops by Margo’s office to chat for about ten minutes before he makes his way to the chamber.

Marco is upbeat and can’t wait for a break. He unlocks the door to the chamber, Sheena quickly moves behind the door. He removes his black robe before closing the door, out pops Sheena screaming surprise.

Hi baby, what are you doing here?

Sheena kissing Marco, I came by to take you to lunch.

Marco dials Margo, So you were in on this too?

Sorry Judge Albright, Mrs. Albright asked me not to tell you.

Margo, how does my schedule look?

You are free to leave Judge Albright. I have arranged everything.

Thank you Margo, you are the greatest.

Thanks Judge Albright, I will see you at 1:00pm.

Marco and Sheena hurry over to the Hot Spot for a cozy lunch. Scotty has prepared a nice Caesar salad with the house homemade dressing, grilled pork tenderloin, roasted red potatoes, seasonal vegetables, slice of key lime pie and fresh squeezed lemonade. Marco and Sheena talk and talk. They enjoy the delicious meal and couldn’t wait to try Scotty’s famous key lime pie. It is a delightful lunch.

Marco returns back to work while Sheena heads to the toy store to meet Mrs. P. and Mrs. Albright. Sheena is excited and can’t wait to discuss the items she plans to purchase. The ladies greet Sheena at the door. Mrs. P. quickly asks, Do you have any idea what to purchase?

Sheena removes the list and pictures from her purse. This is something I know Myles would enjoy.

Mrs. Albright moves in closer to take a look at the pictures. My goodness, Sheena it’s an airplane.

I know Myles is fascinated by them. I have no idea where he got this from.

Mrs. Albright smiles, his grandfather. Dr. Albright dreamed about becoming a world famous pilot but he decided he could help more people in the field of medicine. This didn’t change his love for flying. He took flying lessons and received his pilot license.

Now I know why Myles loves airplanes, Sheena giggles. Here is another item Myles loves, look mother. Sheena shows Mrs. P. Myles loves books. His favorite books are the small ones he can hold in his hand.

This is a start but I think we need something unique for Myles’ first birthday party, adds Mrs. P.

I agree, Mrs. Albright replies.

Sheena suggests. Let’s take a look around the toy store, maybe something will inspire us. The ladies spend three hours in the toy store up and down the aisles and nothing appeals to them. Sheena is tired and decides that’s enough for the day. She rushes home. Sheena plans to talk with Kylan and Karlyn about Myles’ birthday, Sheena hopes the twins will inspire her with an idea.

The twins completes their homework, Myles is in the swing, while Sheena prepares dinner. The house is quiet. Marco will be home soon this will give Sheena some time to be alone with the twins. Sheena finishes basing the roast, peeling the potatoes and mixing the salad.

The twins watch a movie while keeping an eye on Myles. Sheena completes the task in the kitchen and joins the children in the family room. She removes Myles from the swing, and gives him a nice warm bath, a bottle and reads Myles’ favorite story. Marco