The Reunion: Part III

By Hilda A. Stephens

Attorney Sheena Jackson Albright is married to the handsome Judge Marco Albright and things between the two seem to be going well. They are the proud parents of MJ, Patrice, and twins Kylan and Karlyn. It’s been seven years and Sheena thinks it time to bring everyone back together. Sheena plans “The Reunion,” but what takes place before this event is more than Marco, Sheena, Nathan and Shavonna can handle. Although Sheena is married to the clever Judge Marco Albright, but Nathan’s love for Sheena continues to grow and he still thinks that one day Sheena may change her mind and leave.
This love triangle has gotten the best of Judge Marco Albright, so he steps up his game plan and convinces Nathan that it’s time to move on with his life. Shavonna waits patiently as she tries hard to prove her love to Nathan but it never seems to be enough. Dealing with other issues, Nathan agrees it time to move on after the talk with Sheena. Nathan thinks there is no hope and the only thing left to do is… What? Move On! Only time will tell if Nathan is completely over the beautiful Sheena Jackson Albright.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Feb 27, 2014
• ISBN: 9781493166473

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.

Book preview

THE DEPARTURE

Sheena and Marco are doing extremely well. Marco devotes his time to his wife and children. Seven years have come and gone; the twins are out of school for summer break and can’t wait to visit their grandparents. Sheena has a few plans of her own as she folds the last short set for Karlyn. Marco, please come and get the luggage. Are you ready to take the drive to Boston?

Marco relaxes in front of the television yells back, I’ll be there shortly dear. Sheena mumbles under her breath, Why can’t Marco just do what I ask?

Did you say something sweetheart?

Yes, Marco we need to get moving, I would like to arrive in Boston before nightfall.

Is there a reason why we can’t take our time?

Sheena is frustrated by Marco’s question and quickly answers, I have things planned while the twins are away.

Marco couldn’t wait to respond Did you include me in any of your plans Mrs. Albright?

Sheena continues to pack the twins’ luggage, answers abruptly, "I did! Sheena’s answer wasn’t good enough for Marco. Marco wanted the facts.

Could you, share your plans with me?

I will as soon as we get the children settle

It seems I’m in for a big surprise.

You know me better than that, Sheena laughs. You are going to love my plan. It’s been too long.

It’s been to long for what Sheena?

My plan Marco, just wait and see.

Marco finishes packing the car. He gathers the twins’ toys while Sheena instructs Kylan and Karlyn on the last items they could take on the trip.

Kylan get your things together, before your father comes for your bag.

Mother, I’m sleepy can I go back to bed?

No, get your games and let’s go.

Kylan stomps across the floor. Marco enters the room. Did your mother give you an order?

Yes.

Why did you stomp across the floor?

Kylan thinks about his answer before responding. I don’t know.

Marco is not pleased with Kylan’s behavior and immediately asks for an explanation.

Why did you stomp across the floor?

Kylan didn’t answer. Marco waits. I don’t know.

You do know, Kylan. What do you have in your hand?

It’s my favorite video game.

Leave the game home. The next time you will follow your mother’s instructions.

Daddy, I want to take my game with me.

What did I say? I’m not repeating myself again? Leave the game home now!

Yes sir.

Get in the car before I take you to camp for the entire summer. I know you are not crying? Kylan proceeds to his bedroom. Sheena knows something is wrong but before Sheena could ask, Marco answers. I got this Sheena. Kylan needs to listen and follow instructions.

Sheena wants to say something but she knows Kylan behaved in a way that Marco disapproves of. Marco is a good father, but he doesn’t allow his children to get away with much. Marco walks into the hallway. Kylan is upset but Marco goes about his business. Where is your sister?

I don’t know.

Are you still crying?

No.

Go find your sister and tell your mother it’s time to go.

Sheena picks up the last bag, calls for Karlyn before approaching the car. In walks Kylan. Daddy is ready to go.

Sheena quickly turns around and gives Kylan a big hug. Do you promise to be good?

Yes, Mother.

When you return home we will do something special. Now wait for me in the car. Karlyn, Sheena calls out, Let’s go your father is waiting. Where are you?

Mother, I’m in the bathroom, I don’t feel good.

What’s wrong Karlyn?

My stomach aches.

Sheena puts the bag on the table, calls for Marco. Karlyn is not feeling well.

Marco enters the bathroom. What’s wrong sweetie?

I don’t feel well Daddy.

What hurts?

My stomach and throat hurt.

Marco quickly takes Karlyn’s temperature. Well her temperature is normal; Sheena, can you wait in the car with Kylan?

What’s wrong Marco?

I’ll tell you later.

Karlyn, tell Daddy what’s wrong.

I told you Daddy.

Look at me Karlyn. What’s wrong? Are you afraid?

Daddy, I don’t want to leave you.

Why sweetie? your grandparents are waiting.

I don’t want to stay away from home.

You will have a good time in Boston and New York.

What about you and Mother?

We will find something to do. We will not have as much fun as you and your brother.

Why don’t you stay?

Marco laughs. It’s time for you and Kylan to get to know your grandparents.

I’m going to miss you Daddy.

We are going to miss you too.

What about Kylan?

We will miss Kylan too. It’s okay if you are afraid, you can call Daddy anytime.

I love you Daddy.

We love you and Kylan. Now give Daddy a big kiss. Are you ready to go?

Yes.

Get your game and your bag and I will race you to the car.

Marco loves his children but there is something special about his baby girl Karlyn. She knows how to get to Daddy’s heart. The drive to Boston is exciting. The twins have settled down and are fast asleep. Sheena relaxes as she talks over her plan with Marco.

I can’t believe that we have three months to do whatever we want.

What do you have in mind?

Let me get my list. We have been married for seven years. It’s time for a reunion.

It’s time for what, Sheena?

It’s time to get everyone back together. When was the last time you saw Scotty.

I saw Scotty last week?

Did you have time to enjoy your visit?

No, I stop by on my way to pick up the children.

That’s what I’m talking about. Don’t you miss all the fun we had at the Hot Spot?

Yes, but everything has changed.

No, Marco you have changed.

In what way Sheena, have I changed?

You put all your time in the children…

Or what, you?

No Marco, I was thinking more of the television.

I never have time to watch the sports channel.

Marco, that’s all you do.

Are you complaining?

Yes.

Don’t I take care of my family?

You do a great job, but I need more.

You need more of what, Sheena?

Marco, if you need to ask, then it’s worse than I thought.

I have no idea what you are talking about. I’m happy. Aren’t you?

To a certain degree, it could be better.

Sheena, we have a family and we are getting older. What do you want? I give you everything.

Marco, something is missing.

What could be missing? I make good love to you. Wouldn’t you agree?

I agree, Sheena smiles.

What else do you want?

I would love to spend some time with our friends.

Why didn’t you say that. What do you have in mind?

I don’t know yet. Sheena gives Marco that certain look.

Sheena, what are you up to?

Nothing, Sheena smiles with a twinkle in her eyes. Last week we received an invitation from Shavonna. She is planning a birthday dinner for Nathan. Would you like to attend? It would be nice to see our friends again.

Don’t you mean your friends?

No, they are our friends.

The guest of honor is your friend.

Why did you say it like that?

There are some things Nathan and I need to discuss.

Sheena is quiet she didn’t say a word. Sheena finally responds after a few seconds. What do you have to discuss with Nathan?

Marco is not ready to discuss this with Sheena. Marco knows it could open up a can of worms. Sheena insists that Marco finishes his comment. Marco quickly answers. The man spends too much time with my daughter. I didn’t expect to see Nathan every weekend. It’s becoming a problem with me. I plan to straighten this out when we return from Boston.

I don’t know if this is a good idea, Marco. You made Nathan the godparent. What did you expect? What’s the problem? Our daughter loves him. We can’t break Karlyn’s heart. Are you jealous?

Yes, you damn right I am. I think this gives Nathan a reason to see you. I got my eyes on Nathan Tidwell.

Are you serious about this?

I’m serious, believe it?

Don’t be silly Marco. Nathan would never interfere in our family. I can’t believe you are saying this to me after seven years of marriage.

I’m dead serious.

Sheena sits back quietly in the seat. Her mind goes a million miles per minute. Why are you sharing this with me now?

It seems like the perfect time. I know how you feel about Nathan Tidwell.

Have I given you a reason to think this way? I love you Marco.

No, but Sheena maybe I see something you can’t see. It’s the way Nathan talks with Karlyn.

What do you mean?

Nathan acts like our daughter belongs to you and him.

Marco, that’s the furthest thing from Nathan’s mind.

I’m not sure about that sweetheart. I’m going to ask Nathan to backoff.

What about our daughter?

Karlyn will understand. Can you handle my decision?

I can handle anything. Why didn’t you talk to me about this sooner? Our daughter loves Nathan. This is too much.

Why are you sad? Is it our daughter or my wife who loves Nathan?

It’s our daughter. I won’t allow this to happen. Nathan is a great godparent.

Sheena, get over this. It’s going to happen when we arrive back in Washington. Why are you so upset?

I don’t like the way you are handling this. This will disappoint Nathan.

Sheena, why is it always about Nathan’s feelings?

Right now, you don’t seem to have any feelings. If this was going to be a problem why didn’t you ask someone else?

It’s not a problem, I’m just asking Nathan to back-off.

Sheena rolls her eyes, You are too much at times.

And what the hell does that mean?

Think about it Marco, I’m finished with this conversation.

That’s fine with me. Do you want to stop and get something to eat?

It’s your call; whatever you want to do.

Sheena, I’m not trying to upset you, but this needs to be done.

I can agree with you, but it’s how you are doing it. You had this on your mind for a while, but why did you allow our daughter to get so close to Nathan. Now you want to end this.

For god sake, Sheena, Karlyn will get over this, I’m her father. The question is can you get over Nathan.

I have. Sheena’s eyes filled with tears.

Thank you! shouts Marco.

Sheena didn’t say anything else the rest of the trip. Sheena is not pleased.

Marco pulls into the driveway; his parents greet them at the side door. Hello Sheena.

How are you, Mrs. Albright?

I’m fine Sheena. How was the drive son?

It was nice. Marco answers.

Mrs. Albright smells trouble in paradise.

Could you please excuse me? Sheena heads back to the car to get the twins’ belongings.

Marco shouts, Sheena, I can get the bags. What’s wrong with you?

Nothing, Marco. I’m okay.

That’s not true. I know my wife and you are upset about our conversation.

Yes, that’s right. I wish you would have told me in a different setting.

Is the conversation about Nathan going to mess up our weekend?

No, but… I didn’t see this coming. I never knew you felt this way about Nathan.

Sheena, what is it Nathan does for you, that I can’t seem to do?

You don’t want me to answer that question.

Yes, it would be nice to hear your side of the story.

Can we talk about this later, it’s getting late and the children need to eat.

We will talk about this later, right, Sheena?

I will Marco. Please get the bags.

Sheena and Marco return inside. Mrs. Albright prepares the children’s favorite meal spaghetti, broccoli, corn on the cob and big glass of apple juice. Mrs. Albright explains to Marco and Sheena that the children are fine and suggests they go out and have some fun. Mario and I know what to do. Go, have some fun.

It’s has been awhile. Do you feel up to it Sheena?

It does sound nice.

Let’s do it.

Sheena and Marco dress to hit the town. Marco kisses the children and waves to his Mother. Thank you, Marco whispers. Mrs. Albright knows this is exactly what Sheena and Marco need, a little rest and relaxation.

Sheena and Marco arrive at one of Boston’s fabulous restaurants. The atmosphere is just right. Tonight is special. Marco doesn’t plan on upsetting Sheena but wants to get to the bottom of the story about Sheena and Nathan’s relationship. Sheena is poised as Marco pulls the chair out for Sheena to sit. Not a word is spoken until Marco takes his seat.

Would you like me to order you a glass of white wine?

Marco, I stopped drinking white wine.

One glass for you and me; it will be like old times, when we first met. I will take good care of you Mrs. Albright. Sheena sees the beam in Marco’s eyes. What do you have planned Mr. Albright?

I don’t know, the night is still young. Don’t worry, I told mother we will see them sometime this weekend.

I like that Judge Albright.

Would you like to dance?

Yes, I thought you would never ask.

Marco holds Sheena close around her waist. Have I told you this evening how much I love you?

No. Do you really love me?

I hope I get the opportunity to show you, Mrs. Albright.

Please tell me more, what do you have in mind. Marco whispers in Sheena’s ear.

I like that Judge Albright.

I thought you would. Marco pulls Sheena closer.

In the meantime Grandpa Mario gives the children a horseback ride, while grandma looks on. Mario, get off the floor before you pull something.

Don’t stop Grandpa! the twins yell.

No, I better do what grandma says if you want to visit the zoo and the game room tomorrow.

"Can Mother and Daddy go with us? the twins ask.

Let Mommy and Daddy get some rest, Dr. Albright answers. It’s time for bed, brush your teeth, and say your prayers and I will read you a bedtime story.

The twins rush off to the bathroom and quickly settle in for a bedtime story. It’s a good night and they can’t wait to visit the zoo and game room.

Marco and Sheena enjoy the weekend at the Royal King Castle Hotel. It’s one of the most prestigious hotels in Boston, overlooking the harbor. Marco has a surprise for Sheena, he pulls from his pocket a small gift box. This is for you Mrs. Albright.

What is this?

Open the box and see, Marco smiles.

When did you find time to purchase me a gift?

I can’t tell you all my secrets. I purchased this just for you. I hope you like it.

Sheena opens the box, inside is a platinum diamond heart necklace with six diamonds and one large diamond in the middle, representing the years of their wedding anniversary.

Marco, the gift is wonderful, thank you.

I wanted to give you something with meaning. I love you. I didn’t mean to upset you about Nathan. Please forgive me.

Sheena gives Marco a peck on the lips. It’s getting late may I have one last dance.

It will be my pleasure Judge Albright.

The dinner date ends well. Marco and Sheena prepare for bed. Sheena hopes Marco has forgotten the conversation about Nathan Tidwell, but it’s still on Marco’s mind. Sheena moves close to Marco and smiles. Marco returns the smile.

Are you ready to fill me in on the details?

Now!

Now, Sheena.

"What do you want to know?’

Please tell me about your relationship with Nathan Tidwell.

It’s hard to explain.

Please, I need you to try.

Nathan told me I reminded him of his wife Suzette.

Please go on.

I never asked Nathan what did that mean.

I see, please continue.

I’m not sure what you are expecting me to say.

Sheena, it has to be something. When I talk about Nathan Tidwell you immediately defend him and get upset.

It’s nothing, Nathan and I are friends?

Please answer this question for me: Do you think about Nathan when we make love? Sheena pauses, No way. I have no idea what that would be like. Marco, I never made love to Nathan.

I know physically, but what about mental.

Marco, I told you the truth. Can we please talk about something else?

No, I need to understand your relationship with Nathan Tidwell. There got to be something you not telling me. I see the look in your eyes when Nathan talks about our daughter. It’s almost like the man is making love to you right in front of my face. Nathan takes his time with Karlyn. He’s kind, understanding and most of all, very patient with her. Nathan goes out of his way to see our daughter. I have studied Nathan; he puts in quality time and enjoys every moment. That’s the same way I make love to you.

I know you think there is something I’m not telling you, but it’s not.

I guess I may never understand your relationship with Nathan. Are you sure this is everything you need to share with me about Nathan Tidwell?

I’m sure, Nathan and I are friends, that’s all.

Marco wraps his arms around Sheena. Sheena gives Marco a quick smile and turns away. Marco pulls his wife closer, Can we make love?

We certainly can Mr. Albright.

The weekend passes quickly. Sheena and Marco enjoy some quality time with the twins before kissing them goodbye.

The drive back to Washington is long and quiet. Sheena continues to make plans for The Reunion. Marco thinks about the conversation with Sheena. It has to be more, but he tries hard not to express his concern. Marco finally asks. Would you like a bite to eat?

That would be nice.

I will stop at the next exit. There is a Sushi restaurant or would you prefer something else?

I would prefer a chicken wrap and some fruit.

Marco continues to drive. He is still puzzled about Sheena and Nathan’s relationship. The thought of his wife could be in love with Nathan is too much for Marco to handle. Sheena knows this is not the last conversation about Nathan Tidwell. No matter how bad she wants the subject to go away. Marco is not at peace. Sheena hopes she can convince Marco that the relationship is not serious and Marco should let the matter go.

No, that’s too easy for Marco. He plans to continue until Nathan is completely out of Sheena’s life. Marco takes the next exit, he slowly pulls in and parks. Before Marco could say anything, Sheena asks. Marco, is there something on your mind? You have been quiet for an hour.

I really don’t want to talk about this now.

There is something on your mind. Are you concerned about our conversation?

Sheena, why are you going there?

Did I hit a nerve?

What do you think? I’m thinking how this will affect our daughter.

Marco, it’s not that difficult.

That’s your opinion. I want Nathan to stay away from my family for a while.

That’s not fair! You brought Nathan into our family so deal with this.

I plan to deal with this when we get home.

What do you have in mind?

Sheena, do you have to know everything?

Marco, don’t make this personal.

I’m tired of talking about this Sheena, let’s get something to eat.

Sheena could see that this has Marco worked up. Marco tries to pull himself together. They quickly get a bite to eat, nothing much is spoken. Marco pays the bill and leaves a tip on the table. Sheena waits by the front door.

Sheena suggests it’s her turn to drive, but Marco is in awful mood and refuses the offer. Sheena continues to push the issue. Would you like me to drive the rest of the way home? You are dead tired Marco.

No, I can take care of my obligation.

Marco, this doesn’t make any sense.

Marco finally decides it’s a good idea for Sheena to drive. Marco falls immediately asleep. Sheena puts in a CD, and hits the road for the two hour journey ahead. Sheena glances at Marco, wondering what’s going on in his head. She smiles, checks her speed and sings along with the music as she waits for the outcome of Marco’s plan.

THE TALK

It’s 4:00pm. Sheena pulls into the garage, taps Marco on the shoulder to wake him. Marco lets out a big yarn. Sheena unlocks the door, taps back on the window to get Marco’s attention.

You did good baby, I didn’t know I was so tired.

Are you going to bed?

No, I have an appointment at 6:00pm.

You have an appointment, with whom? We just got home.

Nathan is coming by. I didn’t share this with you in Boston. I didn’t want to upset you.

When did you call Nathan?

I called Nathan last night while you were asleep.

Did you tell Nathan what the meeting is about?

No, I told Nathan it is important. Do you have any more questions for me Attorney Albright? No your honor, I rest my case. Sheena leaves the room, Marco heads for his office. Sheena picks up her cell phone, turns on the shower, locks the door, and calls Nathan Tidwell.

Hello, Nathan answers on the first ring.

This is Sheena.

Hello Sheena, it’s good to hear from you. Is something wrong?

There is nothing wrong, I found out from Marco that you are stopping by this evening.

That’s right, Marco said it’s important; he needs to talk with me.

Nat, I don’t know how to tell you this… , suddenly there is knock at the door. Sheena pauses. Marco knocks at the door. I got to go.

Sheena! Nathan yells.

Sheena quickly hangs up the phone and hides it under a towel in the linen closet. Sheena quickly undresses and moves into the shower just in time to get soaked. Sheena goes to the door dripping wet.

What’s wrong Marco?

Why is the door locked?

Marco, I’m taking a shower.

"Sheena, please