The Infertile Heart: The Doctors of Atlanta

By BK Harrell

How does a man come back from the brink? Billionaire Lincoln Montgomery, a Nobel-Prize-winning doctor, nearly lost himself after the death of his wife and unborn child. Now, years later, he wants nothing more than to find a woman to share his life with, but doesnt believe true love can come around twice in a lifetime. A single tee shot and a glimpse of perfection changes his life forever by sending him just the woman to help heal his soul.
Secrets that have been buried for fourteen years and a deeply scarred soul have prevented Dr. Nicole Harris from finding true love. A beautiful woman who only sees herself as average, she perceives herself as someone whom nobody would want but seeks to atone for the consequences of her decisions. Then a chance encounter brings Lincoln Montgomery into her world. Fearful that the man shes fallen in love with will discard her if he ever learns the truth, she vows to keep her secrets buried.
But what happens when the love of two lifetimes is confronted with the dark secrets that could destroy them both? Can Lincoln and Nicole both survive their pasts and forge a future together, or will one final secret destroy their love for good?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: May 2, 2016
• ISBN: 9781514477144

BK Harrell

BK Harrell is a former navy physician who has had a long love of writing. He specializes in medical, military, and sports romance writing. He began seriously writing while deployed to Afghanistan in 2012 and has never looked back. Whether he is teaching, serving his country, educating people about the fine art of cigars, practicing medicine, or spending time with friends and family, he uses his diverse background to shape the world around him through words. He uses his unique experiences and love of all things Atlanta, University of Georgia, and sports to weave intricately detailed stories focused on Atlanta and the surrounding areas. His goal is to bring the same joy and excitement he sees in his own city to the readers and to allow them to experience the city through his eyes. Dr. Harrell is married to his beautiful wife Erin, a proud graduate of Auburn University, which makes multiple appearances in his books, and has a wonderful son. Dr. Harrell is a native of Augusta, Georgia, and a proud graduate of the University of Georgia, Emory University, and proud to have been a member of the first-ever graduating class of Georgia Campus Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He currently resides in the Atlanta area, where he practices medicine and raises his family.

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Copyright © 2016 by BK Harrell.

Library of Congress Control Number:    2016904615

ISBN:      Hardcover      978-1-5144-7713-7

      Softcover      978-1-5144-7712-0

      eBook         978-1-5144-7714-4

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: 03/30/2016

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Contents

Dedication

Acknowledgements

Prologue

Chapter 1

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

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Epilogue

From The Author

Dedication

T o my beautiful wife, Erin, who supported me through this long process and spent countless hours reading and re-reading this book, and my son, Landon, who kept encouragin g me.

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank all of my writer friends: Christina Tetreault, Kathleen Brooks, Jennifer Probst and Melody Anne for all of your support and help through this process. I am really lucky to have you as friends and men tors.

To my senior high school English teacher Mrs. Debbie Daniel for instilling in me a love of writing that took too many years to finally realize.

To my beta readers: Elisha, Torri and Margaret. Thanks for your input and thoughts.

Prologue

August 15, 2009

W hat a day. Two unexpected high risk deliveries and another midsummer thunderstorm. Even as the raindrops continued to beat against the windows of his office and lightning flashed over the city, Lincoln refused to let his mood be dampened by the foul weather, but he could not help but be in a good mood as he looked at the first good ultrasound pictures of his and Elizabeth’s first child. For twelve years they had tried to have a child and they were finally blessed to see those two blue lines on the pregnancy test. At thirty-five, Lincoln had had more success than most people would in a hundred years. He had become one of the top obstetricians in the country and an extremely wealthy man with his discovery of a treatment for the genetic mutation that causes cystic fibrosis. Lincoln was not just a lucky man because of his accomplishments but because of the life he shared with the most amazing and caring woman he had ever known. Elizabeth had been there with him through the difficult times of medical school and residency and the unending hours of research looking to find a cure for the disease that had claimed the life of his little brother Joshua. Lincoln’s thoughts were uncorrupted by the storm raging outside his twenty-seventh floor office window because Lincoln could not help but think back to the day on January 17, 1995, that changed his life for the be tter.

January 17, 1995

Lincoln had always thought of himself as cursed and was never able to find happiness until he met Elizabeth. She was a godsend to him and his lonely life. After the death of his brother, his parents had split up, not able to handle the death of a child, and it had left an emptiness in his heart and soul that he had been unable to fill. Then one day while finishing up his master’s thesis in the University of Georgia library, this amazing woman walked through the door and literally fell into his life.

Elizabeth was hurried and trying to find her study group and not paying attention to where she was going when the toe of her high heel caught on the frayed carpet, causing her to stumble and drop everything she was carrying into a stranger’s lap, where she unceremoniously followed. Instinctively, Lincoln reached out to grab this falling beauty to keep her from hurting herself or him. When she was finally settled on his lap, Lincoln found himself gazing into the most beautiful and piercing blue eyes he had ever seen. Never at a loss for words, Lincoln found himself momentarily dumbstruck, but aside from her eyes, Lincoln was overcome by the pure heat that suffused his body and traveled from his hands straight to his heart. Lincoln noticed the slight hitch in her breath and the blush that crept up her face as he continued to gaze into her eyes. Lincoln wondered if she was feeling the same thing he was. Not wanting to make this awkward, Lincoln moved his hand and helped the beautiful woman stand up.

I am so, so sorry, she said. I just started student teaching today and my professor said to dress professionally, hence the heels—which I never wear, by the way. I was late to my study group and hurried, then the carpet jumped up and grabbed me, but you … you saved me from total embarrassment and face planting in front of all of these people … and my, you are a big one, aren’t you? All muscles and shoulders … She peered at the quizzical look on Lincoln’s face. Oh my gosh, she said with the most refined and cutest little Southern accent. Straightening up she extended her hand. I’m Elizabeth and I usually don’t ramble on like this. I must be more embarrassed from falling into your lap than I thought.

Lincoln took her hand in his, immediately recognizing the warmth taking over his body, Lincoln, he said. It is very nice to meet you, Elizabeth. Glad I could break your fall and keep you from face planting.

Well, it was nice to meet you, but I am late for my study group. Maybe we will run into each other again sometime.

Hopefully, Lincoln said, releasing her hand. He helped her collect her things. Bye, Elizabeth. You … uhh … watch out for those carpet gophers. They will get you every time, Lincoln said with a soft chuckle.

Elizabeth smiled again and Lincoln swore it lit up the library like never before.

Thanks again. With a slight wave, Elizabeth bounded away.

Uncharacteristically distracted by his chance meeting, Lincoln returned to his work. He could not concentrate on genetic engineering and the mutations responsible for cystic fibrosis. This was a new feeling for him as he had always been driven academically with an end state in mind, and the last thing on his mind had been that chance meeting. Lincoln pushed his research aside and thought to himself, I know that I am not solely a bookworm, but given the choices between my studies and dating I have never found anyone other than the casual date for a social function that piqued my interest enough to devote more time to the cause. I did not think of myself as a bad-looking guy at six feet four inches tall, broad shouldered, athletic build with blue eyes, but what was the point of leading someone down a path that would only lead to heartbreak. But now, as Lincoln sat trying to put his mind back on course, all he could think about was the gentle scents of jasmine and vanilla that arose from her, the striking heart-piercing blue eyes that instantly pierced his soul, and the beautiful waves of auburn hair that cascaded down her shoulders. Lincoln knew at that moment that he had to find her and see her again.

As Lincoln left the library that chilled winter night, he found himself deep in thought and wondering whether or not he would ever see her again. Of all the lousy times to meet the one who had the power to take his breath away, this was not it, and he still had no idea where to possibly find her. Unbeknownst to him, Lincoln’s mind was wandering just a little too much thinking about Elizabeth when his foot stepped off the pavement and he ungracefully fell down the front steps onto the North Campus Quad and fell right in front of her. Speechless was not a word for what he was feeling. Had fate intervened and brought them together or was this just another of life’s cruel tricks? Momentarily stunned, Lincoln arose to my feet and quickly apologized for my falling at your her feet.

She blushed the most beautiful shade of red. Lincoln, I am so sorry I didn’t catch you; after all, turnabout would have been fair play, Elizabeth said with a smile. I didn’t think a guy could fall for me so quickly after I fell for him. At least I am not the only one to embarrass myself tonight, or maybe we are bad for each other’s health, she said with a giggle.

Lincoln took her hand in his as she helped him up immediately feeling the same warmth and calm he had felt earlier.

Lincoln asked her about her study group, wanting to hear the angelic voice she possessed.

Elizabeth proceeded to ramble on about the group until she realized she was the only one talking. Slightly embarrassed again, she apologized and stopped talking.

Please don’t stop. I really like the sound of your voice, Lincoln said, causing Elizabeth to blush.

After chatting for a while and trying to find every excuse he could to move on, Lincoln asked her if she would like to walk downtown and grab a late night snack. After accepting his invitation, they walked across campus and headed downtown toward The Grille, continuing to talk while they bonded over milkshakes and fries.

Lincoln never would have imagined that he could fall so fast for someone despite his inner voice yelling at him to put on the brakes. Never wanting to marry or have children based on his own family’s experiences, he found himself opening up and telling her things he had never told another soul, even his therapist. She told Lincoln she was an English major from outside of Augusta and they had actually not grown up far from each other. Although Lincoln was two years ahead of her, they did not know each other because they went to rival high schools.

The first night seemed to stretch on for an eternity, yet the time passed so quickly. Finally, they said goodnight as he walked her to her car. At the moment they were saying goodbye, Lincoln could not remember for the life of him why he did it but he felt such a strong urge to hold her and kiss her. Lincoln moved in close and his hands gently cupped her face and allowed their lips to touch. She had such soft lips that were firm in her kiss but ever so relenting to his pressure. Lincoln gently nipped at her bottom lip, begging entrance, and she parted her lips but allowed Lincoln to control the kiss. Lincoln could taste the chocolate, salt, and a unique taste that his mind could only describe as Elizabeth. It was the most amazing kiss Lincoln had ever experienced. He could feel the heat down to the depths of his soul and he could feel her melt into him with each passing second. The thoughts and feelings that he was having scared him to his core, yet there was a simple feeling of comfort and pleasure with her in his arms. Lincoln had never believed in the romance novel bullshit of love at first sight or the magical first kiss that his Delta Chi fraternity brothers’ girlfriends talked about, but this soul-altering experience had him changing his mind. After the long kiss goodnight, they parted ways but only for the night. They quickly became inseparable and never again was there a question about his life being empty and lonely.

By the spring, Lincoln was accepted to medical school and Elizabeth was graduating as well. It was a beautiful day and evening at the University of Georgia and he knew what needed to be done before it got too late. They were madly in love from the first time they met and kissed. She completed Lincoln physically, emotionally, and mentally. He had never met another person that could challenge him intellectually and push his sexual stamina to the test. But for some reason, God and fate had brought them together and tonight was the night he would put it all to the test. They went to dinner and decided to take a stroll back across north campus. She was holding his hand and snuggling into his shoulder as they came to the spot where Lincoln literally fell head over heels for her. As they approached the spot, Lincoln dropped down on one knee with God and everyone in attendance watching. He slowly pulled out the ring. Elizabeth, I never knew happiness until I met you. You have been my sun, my wind, my earth. You have pushed me beyond the limits I thought I had and have brought me more feelings of love and devotion than I ever thought possible. Would you please grant me the greatest honor ever and marry me?

With tears in her eyes, she said, I could not think of a more perfect man to marry and with all of my heart and soul I love you and cannot wait to marry you.

Three months later, in front of God, friends, and family they were married. They spent the last two months prior to medical school spending time together and laughing and joking about the years to come. After spending a wonderful honeymoon in the Dominican Republic, they came home to the life they desired.

Elizabeth understood the demands Lincoln had placed on himself with school and research. Many nights she was the only person whom Lincoln felt understood what he was going through. In order to support them, Elizabeth took a job teaching English at her alma mater and even went to school at night to complete her master’s degree. Elizabeth’s love supported them both through the long days and weeks of studying as Lincoln worked for his dream. Lincoln knew that he would not have been as successful without her love and support.

Even though their financial lives improved during his residency, the ruthless hours required at the hospital would keep them from seeing each other for days at a time and further hampered their ability to try and achieve Elizabeth’s dream of having children. Unfortunately, despite all of their efforts they had much difficulty conceiving a child, even though all the specialists they visited told them there was nothing physiologically wrong with either one of them and that they should become pregnant in time.

Finally, three months ago, after twelve years of futility, Elizabeth finally discovered that she was pregnant. Lincoln was so overjoyed that he could not contain himself. Finally, Lincoln was going to be a father and their love had produced a child that would be equal parts of both of them.

These first ultrasound pictures were just the icing on the cake. It made everything seem more real than it had the past few weeks. Lincoln finally understood the joy and happiness that he was able to provide to other couples, but he could not help to think how scared he was that he was going to be prisoner to a beautiful baby that had already captured his heart.

The silence of his thoughts was interrupted by his secretary Marcie telling him there was someone here to see him. Lincoln figured it was his next appointment, Mrs. Stonewall, to discuss her pregnancy. When he opened the door, Lincoln was instantly shaken to his very core as two police officers stood grim faced, asking to speak to him. Lincoln knew something was wrong from the minute he saw them. Lincoln could not think straight, and after he sat down, he scarcely heard another word after they said Elizabeth had been killed in a car accident …

Chapter 1

August 15, 2012

Elizabeth Renee Montgomery

March 3, 1975

August 15, 2009

Beloved wife, friend, daughter, and mother.

T he weather matched his mood as gray, overcast, and dour. Lincoln thought, Three years and I always find myself sitting right back here talking to you, Elizabeth. I brought you roses today just to brighten your day. I do not understand why I cannot move on from you. I know we always said till death do us part but I never expected you to go first or so soon. I wake up every day hoping beyond hope that the hurt and barrenness will diminish but my life feels so empty without you. I still cannot spend any time at our lake house. I had the top floor of the office remodeled and turned into a penthouse suite so that I can avoid the emptiness and pain every time I go there. No matter how hard I try, your presence is everywhere I turn there and it has not helped me with my closure. The therapists say that we all grieve in our own way and there is no defined length of time for the process, but all that I know is my heart still has not been able to repair the hole that was ripped in it the day you died. I fear that I have built a thick stone wall around my heart that will never be penetrated. I do not think I could ever handle loving and losing a gain.

Rob and Erin called last week and invited me to go Auburn for Labor Day weekend. I don’t know if I will, but they keep asking and I could use a break away from work. Speaking of work, we finally closed the deal last week with Atlanta REI to bring them onboard. It was quite a lot of negotiating but ultimately they saw the wisdom in joining our specialty practice. Hopefully, if all goes well, we will complete the deals in Nashville, Seattle, and Phoenix. It feels strange at last to have completed this dream of mine to create large specialty practices and hospitals dedicated solely to the treatment of women and newborns. After we closed the deal, I could not help but to think back to when we were first married and stretching every dollar that you made to get us through school. Now I have more money than I could ever spend and no one to share it with. However, I would trade every dollar I have to spend the rest of my life with you and our child.

Well, sweetheart, I have to get ready for my business trip to Las Vegas to check on the clinic. I was really impressed with the new doctors we brought in and the whole concept has been a boom for the area. Everyone has been extremely pleased with our one-stop approach to women’s healthcare. I know we spent so much time discussing this concept, and with all of our own troubles conceiving it made so much sense to allow women to have a place that was their own, where they felt comfortable receiving the care that they needed. We had eighty-four successful in vitro fertilizations there alone last month. It still excites me to see the expressions on their faces when we are able to tell them they are pregnant and especially after we deliver their baby. Also, I was back at the university last week. They just opened the new Elizabeth Montgomery Center for Literature on North Campus. It really is a beautiful building, complete with the Victorian architecture that you always loved. I met the new dean of the school, and after meeting with many of the students, I know that I made the right decision to open the center in your name. I still have difficulty walking in that area without thinking of you. I stopped at our spot the day and nearly broke down, which would not have been very good before my speech and ribbon cutting. But I really just wanted you to know that we finally did it. I love you and will talk to you soon.

A few days later, Lincoln was in Las Vegas. Man, is it hot, but at least it gets me away from home where I could clear my thoughts and focus on work. Lincoln met his practice manager at the Bellagio after he checked in and they discussed the new acquisitions and the success rates of the CF treatments and REI work. Dr. Jackson Davis was well-educated and extremely successful in the field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility. He was also the West Coast brand manager and the man Lincoln looked to, to handle the daily operations of the group and to seek out new acquisition opportunities. Today they sat dining at Le Cirque enjoying each other’s company and discussing the changes in the healthcare market with respect to obstetrics and in vitro fertilization.

Lincoln said, Jackson, my biggest concern is this potential government takeover of the market and insurance mandates that may come back to hurt our bottom line. If all insurance companies are forced to begin offering coverage for IVF, then our profitability drops like a rock. Then the overall concern is not our bonus structures or yearend payouts to the principals but being able to continue our philanthropic work for the people who could not afford the services they need. It was one of Elizabeth’s pet projects for me to give back.

Lincoln, we will be okay with the market. I understand your concerns and desires to continue what we are doing, but it is time you began doing these things for yourself and not for Elizabeth. We have had this conversation many times, and no matter what you do to honor her she is not coming back. You have got to begin to move on with your life. You are still a young man who has a lot to offer, Jackson replied.

Lincoln listened pensively to his friend drone on and on about his private life but all the time thinking that he truly meant well, but having never experienced loss like this himself, he really did not understand what Lincoln was going through. Lincoln was just about to respond when his cell phone rang, saving him once again from his friend’s advice on his love life or lack thereof. Seeing that it was his best friend Rob, he excused himself and walked to the lobby. Hey, Rob, what’s up? Is everything okay?

Yeah, buddy, everything is fine. Listen, I know you are in Vegas checking on the group but Erin wanted me to call and find out if you are going with us on Labor Day weekend. I know you wanted to think about it but we need to make plans. We have an alumni football players gathering that I would like for you to join us for and then we will have our usual box suite for the game.

Listening carefully, Lincoln pondered the offer. Rob, that lovely wife of yours is not trying to set me up with another woman, is she? I know she doesn’t like Monica, and I am taking care of that today.

Rob snorted with laughter as his wife elbowed him in the ribs, No, Linc, this is most definitely not a setup. Besides, most of the women there will be married, too old, or too young for you to even consider dating. I know you need to go to Biloxi the next week, so come with us, stay at the townhouse then head down on Sunday afternoon. It will be a lot of fun, and bring your clubs so we can knock the ball around the course some.

After a quick inward smile, he replied, Sure, Rob. I will be there. I have to go, I am in a lunch meeting. Give my love to Erin and the kids. Why do I always agree to these things? I know Erin has something planned for me, but I love her and Rob too much to say no. I mean, I was his best man and did deliver both of his children. Sometimes I envy his life, though—a loving wife, simple ophthalmology practice, and great kids.

As he headed back to continue his conversation with Jackson, he could not help but think of the hole in his heart. Elizabeth had loved it here. She was always a great roulette player and more often than not she took more of the house money than they took of hers. Sorry, Jackson, I had to take that. Where were we? He hoped the phone call would distract Jackson from talking about his personal life.

Jackson regarded him carefully, taking in his boss and friend’s brooding eyes and sullen attitude as he tried to ease the conversation back to getting him out and meeting new people. Lincoln, all I am saying is that you should at least make an effort to get out and meet some people. Elizabeth would not want you living the life of a monk. You barely leave the office, to the point that you built a penthouse above it. When was the last time you had a date or sex or anything without feeling guilty?

Lincoln thought so much for that hope. As a flash of anguish mixed with anger flashed across Lincoln’s face, Lincoln said, Jackson, you do not understand. I get no joy out of meeting new women. I date occasionally, especially with the list of charity functions I attend, but they all bore me to tears. I just want someone who will be attracted to me and not my bank account. It was so much easier when I was a middle-class guy working hard to be successful. I am not being stubborn or hardheaded. I just know when I meet the right one it will be crystal clear to me. I just haven’t found her yet.

Suddenly tired of the conversation and with a hint of exacerbation in his voice, Lincoln said, Let’s get back to business please. The bottom line looks good. Make sure that the newly acquired assets feel at home and have whatever they need to be successful. I am going to swing by the new teaching hospital and check on the labor and delivery wing progress. Let me know if you need anything. Otherwise, I will see you in a few weeks when you come to Atlanta. Remember your golf clubs and we will make time to play.

With that said, both men shook hands and traded goodbyes. Finally alone, Lincoln let himself sink back into the loneliness he felt before the meeting.

Lincoln headed over to see the new resident teaching facilities at the hospital before his dinner meeting with the new ad agency. As a group, they had sunk a lot of money into procuring the best simulation equipment. After his visit to the hospital, dinner with the advertising executives, and a good night’s sleep, Lincoln decided to head to the craps table and try to get his mind off of business and his lack of any emotional involvement with anyone before heading home.

Come on hard eight. Lincoln was finally relaxing and making some money while doing it. Ten thousand dollars on nine, five, and ten. He remembered a day when that would have been a lot of money to him and Elizabeth. The struggles of school and residency keeping them living paycheck to paycheck and thinking they were living large when they went to the Chinese buffet to eat.

Winner nine, said the stick man.

Well, at least the dice were rolling hot today.

Hey, Franco, will you color me up and just put it into my account?

Sure, Dr. Montgomery. You have a pleasant evening and let me know if you need anything else.

Thanks but I have a plane to catch. See you next trip and tell Loretta that I’m sorry we missed each other this trip.

She’ll be sorry, Dr. Montgomery. She always looks forward to your visits.

The one thing about the Bellagio is that you could easily forget where you are and what time of day it is. I had better hurry if I am going to make it back to Atlanta before too late in the afternoon." Thankfully, as he approached the lobby his limousine appeared and took him to his private jet.

Did you have a good visit, Dr. Montgomery? his driver asked.

Just fine, Gary. How are the wife and kids?

Same old same old, sir. She wants more and I want fewer, but I am stuck with the ones we have, so she will just have to make do.

Lincoln laughed to himself, thinking about how difficult it had been for them to get pregnant in the first place and how they had had great success with the in vitro processes. Well, if you change your mind, my friend, just give me a call and we will set you up for another treatment.

Will do, sir. Have a nice flight and see you next time.

Lincoln got out of the car and admired his new Gulfstream G-5. Sleek, beautiful, and not too ostentatious, painted red and black. The interior had been the real treat. Black leather seats with a nice big G embroidered on them. Well, I might as well have a drink, a cigar, and relax for the flight back.

Good afternoon, Dr. Montgomery. What can I get for you today?

I will have the usual, Greta, just some Macallan 55 and an Opus X Shark. Thanks for taking such good care of me. You are the only woman in my life who actually listens to me. Just then, he remembered he needed to call his newest lady friend and end things with her. Monica had become too clingy too fast, and was all about the lifestyle and not about him. I just wish I could find someone to spend time with that did not care that I am worth what I am worth. It did not help that Atlanta Magazine had just named him the wealthiest, hottest bachelor in the city. Oh well, let’s get this over with.

Hello, Monica. How are you today?

Lincypoo, I am fine, but where are you, darling? I miss you something terribly.

Lincoln cringed at the name Monica called him as they had not dated long enough to have nicknames for each other. She had even become brazen enough to start leaving little things at his penthouse as if she was trying to move in with him. I am just heading back from a business trip to Las Vegas.

Oh, Las Vegas I really wish you would have taken me with you. They have such wonderful boutiques to shop in and I could really have used some time away from here, she said with an exaggerated pout in her voice.

Well, that is why I am calling, I wanted to tell you that I have somewhat enjoyed our time together but it has come to an end. I think that you enjoy spending my money more than you enjoy my company. I had Carl remove your things from the penthouse and he will send them too you. Don’t call me anymore as my decision is final.

But, Lincoln, I think if you just give us some more time I can grow to love the man that you are.

Goodbye, Monica. And with that, he ended the call and stared out the window as the plane taxied for takeoff. His phone rang, and when he looked down he saw it was Monica calling back. Man, she just doesn’t get it. Not wanting to be annoyed for the entire flight home, Lincoln turned off his phone and reclined back to relax in his seat.

Dr. Montgomery, our flight time is just over three hours, but unfortunately we will hit some turbulence and some thunderstorms about the time we get over Tuscaloosa.

That is okay, Paul. What else would you expect over that blessed town? Just let me know when we get close to home so I can let George know when to arrive with the car.

Lincoln sat back and enjoyed his scotch and Opus X thinking this is the first real pleasure I have had today. It is a shame that I do not have someone to share this with. Speaking of sharing, I need to call Joe and see how the plant is doing. Maybe I will jet down to Augusta for a few days and check on the operation and play a little golf since the club just opened for the season.

Joseph Michaels’s office, how may I help you?

Jeanette, it is Dr. Montgomery. How are you today?

Fine, sir, what can I do for you?

Is Joseph available? He was Joe to me and our little group but to everyone at work he was Joseph. I still chuckle thinking the only times he was ever called Joseph growing up was when he was in trouble at school or at home.

Sure, Dr. Montgomery, just let me buzz you through and connect you to his phone.

Thanks, Jeanette, and you have a wonderful day. I am sure I will see you soon.

Hey, Lincoln. Good to hear from you. What’s up?

"Not much, just thought I would head