For Everything There’s a Season

By Farrell Ellis

Unthinkable events threaten the safe, perfect world Mercedes has established for herself. As her life spirals beyond her control, Mercedes finds herself forced to confront the past.

Sylvia is happily married, and she is a stay-at-home mom to two children. Unbeknownst to her family, Sylvia lives with a childhood secret that she can no longer hide from them.

Doreen is a colleague of Mercedes. She has recently taken on a new client. Doreen is completely caught off guard when their attorney-client relationship takes a dramatic turn.

Carmen is an associate attorney. Surprisingly, a blind date quickly evolves into a whirlwind courtship. Carmen is happy, but that happiness is short-lived. Suddenly, her life is turned upside down when she comes face-to-face with a devastating truth.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Jan 23, 2019
• ISBN: 9781973636281

Farrell Ellis

Farrell Ellis fulfilled a childhood dream writing her debut book, Go Beyond Your Dreams (Live them!) in 2009. She released a second book, So Who Do YouThink You Are (The Real You) in 2012. Farrell has hosted women’s conferences. She wrote a monthly newsletter for the church she attended in Wilmington, Delaware, where she served on women’s ministries. In 2016, Farrell retired to live in the coastal town of Brunswick, Georgia. This author believes when you trust God at His Word and walk by faith, refusing to allow circumstances, or others to deter you from pursuing your dreams, anything is possible with God!

Book preview

The Beginning of The End

M ercedes turned the lights off above the two oblong mirrors inside the bathroom. She walked across the suite. A sigh escaped passed her lips. She lowered her body down to the edge of the king-size bed bending one arm at a time, applying her favorite perfumed lotion to each elbow. She slid her pedicured feet out of a pair of a new slippers, climbing up on the firm mattresses. Mercedes felt quite relaxed following her evening shower as she pulled the white coverlet further about her waist. She stretched out her body, reaching for the TV remote on the night table next to the bed. Mercedes lowered the volume on the 40-inch flat screen TV mounted atop a nine-drawer dresser against the long beige wall opposite the bed.

For the past week, Mercedes had taken up residence at a downtown Raleigh five-star hotel. She recently sold the house she loved. The new owners were taking possession of the house immediately following the New Year’s holiday. Nevertheless, Mercedes decided to vacate the house before then. In her mind, it no longer belonged to her. She smiled thinking it was nice of the buyers to extend the invitation for her to remain in the house until they were ready to move in.

Mercedes turned on her left side. She glimpsed at the bright green neon numbers on the clock sitting atop the table. Ten-fifteen. I should try to get some sleep, she thought aloud. Off went the TV and the lamp light. Mercedes snuggled under the coverlet. She rolled on her back staring up at the coffered ceiling. It was obvious, she was much too anxious to sleep. In the morning she was boarding a plane, leaving behind the life she established in North Carolina. Quietness engulfed the suite as her mind began to wander.

It was a little over nineteen years ago when Mercedes Reynolds came to live in Raleigh. She was a recent law school grad. Mercedes joined one the city’s most notable corporate law firms. She was young, ambitious, and determined to make a name for herself within the legal community. Eventually, all of her hard work paid off. Before the age of thirty, Mercedes made partner. She was well on her way to fulfilling a childhood dream to follow in her father’s footsteps.

Mercedes tossed and turned on the bed. It was hard to believe Christmas was in two weeks. Her mother had been right. The older you get, the faster the years fly by. Mercedes yawned, closing her eyes. God, thank you for helping me to overcome the last couple of months of chaos. Then Mercedes’ thoughts shifted to the phone call she received earlier that evening from her protégé, Carmen. She smiled recalling their conversation.

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I didn’t want you to leave tomorrow without thanking you, Carmen said. Mercedes, you’re going to be missed at the firm. The young woman’s kind and thoughtful words were very touching. Mercedes’ dabbed heartfelt tears trickling down her sable brown face with the tips of her fingers. She was going to miss Carmen more than the young woman might ever know. Mercedes, do you think you can ever forgive me? Carmen asked in a low, childlike voice. A passing emotion of guilt consumed her heart. I understand why you did what you believed was right at the time. Carmen took a deep breath. She silently conceded that she’d been wrong to accuse Mercedes of ruining her life.

Be assured Carmen, you are forgiven. I hope you can forgive me too. Mercedes answered. She was pleasingly surprised Carmen was reaching out to say good-bye. There was no denying it. Both their lives were changed forever. Fresh tears spilled over Mercedes’ face. Carmen, she sniffled. I understood where your anger was coming from. My actions hurt you! Her voice quivered as she rushed to the adjacent bathroom. She grabbed the box of tissues from the vanity sink, returning to the short sofa inside the luxurious suite, curling her bare legs under her. Mercedes mindfully smoothed out the pink flowered satin nightgown twisting about her waist. Carmen, I’m very glad you called. But let’s be honest. It’s going to take time to restore your trust. Mercedes sighed. Where we go from here, depends solely upon what makes you feel most comfortable doing. However, my decision to move back to Los Angeles doesn’t mean I won’t give up trying to repair our relationship.

Carmen blinked against tears stinging the corners of her nutmeg brown eyes. I was hoping we can remain friends. She was already missing Mercedes. This woman had been quite an influence in her life. Does your family know what happened?

The question caught Mercedes off guard. She unfolded her legs, planting both feet on the carpeted floor. My brother is aware of what transpired between us. But, I prefer to speak face-to-face with my mother. In the meantime, I don’t want there to be any more secrets between you and I. Mercedes breathed. There have been enough untruths in our relationship. Wouldn’t you agree? Mercedes looked across the large suite at the drawn draperies. If you and I are serious about repairing our friendship, it has to start by being open and honest with each other.

Mercedes hesitated with another sigh. Look Carmen. She crossed her legs at the ankles. I’m not kidding myself. Your life was turned upside down. I can’t ignore the fact that my actions had a lot to do with it.

Carmen’s eyes shifted around the kitchen as she reclined on the chair at the kitchen table. She felt alone, and very lonely. Is there… she swallowed. Is there any chance maybe I can come visit you in Los Angeles? If it’s okay—I’d like to get to know your family better.

Mercedes smiled at the cell phone on the coffee table, listening to Carmen’s voice coming through the speaker. It means a lot to hear you say that. She started grinning, blinking her teary dark brown eyes. Tell you what. Let me get settled. Then, we can discuss a visit at that time.

Alright, Carmen answered. Well, it’s getting late. She brushed aside a lone tear outlining her perfectly shaped nose, rolling down her light caramel brown face. Good night. Carmen disconnected the call.

Mercedes was overcome with joy. Considering what she and Carmen had gone through, she hadn’t expected to hear from her this evening. Mercedes could not have been happier.

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It was now eleven-thirty. Mercedes knew she really needed to go to sleep. The alarm clock was set for six o’clock tomorrow morning. Mercedes closed her eyes, pulling the coverlet over her small round shoulders. A feeling of excitement shot through her entire body. Mercedes was anxious to start anew. After the turbulent year of 2017, she was glad to see it coming to an end. She could be thankful her strong faith in God’s Word kept her from emotionally collapsing under the weight of her situation. Suddenly the Bible Scripture in the Book of Ecclesiastes came to mind. ‘To everything there is a season.’ How true, Mercedes uttered, followed by another yawn. She could feel herself starting to feel sleepy. I believe the new year is full of promise, she whispered in the darkness of the room. I’m happy to be going home. I’m grateful for another chance to make amends with my mother. Mercedes shifted her five feet seven slender frame on her right side. She drew her legs comfortably into the fetal position. Within a matter of minutes, Mercedes finally drifted off to sleep.

Fall

October 2016

Chapter 1

Mercedes

M ercedes sat poised behind her custom designed large frosted glass top and steel desk. Only an inch or so of the straight hem of her dress rose above her knees. She liked showing off her shapely sable brown legs, but not so much as to draw unflattering attention from a male client, or one of her male colleagues. Mercedes pushed the long sleeves of the coordinating light wool navy blue and pink color-block blazer slightly above her wrists.

She glanced over the desk. Ten manila file folders neatly arranged atop the desk were chronically stacked according to the files she needed to review first. As her dark brown eyes darted about the office, Mercedes reached for the cup of coffee next to the phone. She sipped the hot coffee.

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It was early spring, 1994. That June, Mercedes Reynolds was graduating from a prestigious law school. In two weeks, she was celebrating her twenty-third birthday, and ready to conquer the world. Prior to graduation, Mercedes received a letter from a law firm in Raleigh, North Carolina. She was to expect a visit from their recruiter, Louis Greer. Mercedes interests were originally peaked upon learning the corporate firm had an impressive attorney roster that boasted of their large staff of partners, associate attorneys, and paralegals. The law firm was also located in a warm climate. After growing up in Los Angeles, and spending winters in Boston, Mercedes desired to live in a state known for a warmer climate. She also wanted to put distance between her family. Upon meeting the future grad, Louis Greer was quite taken by Mercedes’ knowledge of the firm’s history. She was exceptionally smart. If he was unsuccessful at persuading her to join his client’s firm, he suspected it might be a huge loss for them. By the time coffee was served following dinner, Mercedes had reached a decision. She purposely waited until the following day to give Louis Greer her answer.

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Mercedes turned on the chair behind her desk, facing the huge windows. It was nineteen—bordering on twenty years ago, when she joined the firm. Mercedes had long since stopped referring to Los Angeles as home. She was born and raised there, but Raleigh was home now. She seldom visited Los Angeles, to the disappointment of her family. Mercedes believed moving to North Carolina following graduation had been a part of God’s great plan for her life. So far, He hadn’t disappointed her.

Over the years, there had been a few unexpected surprises. Some of them were even better than the petitions she prayed during her prayer time. Still, the best surprise by far was the introduction between she and successful businessman, James Loberman. They met a year and a half ago. Mercedes never dreamed what began as a casual friendship would develop so quickly into something serious. Ten months to the anniversary of their first date, James proposed over a romantic candlelit dinner at their favorite restaurant. Mercedes was very happy. At age forty-two, life was perfect. She was in love with a wonderful man, and two weeks ago she agreed to represent a multi-million-dollar client in a merger. She was also busy with planning her wedding for next September. Mercedes? She quickly turned from the windows upon hearing her name, gazing across her office, followed by a friendly smile.

Chapter 2

Carmen

C armen sat immobilized. After a few seconds, she finally hung up the desk phone. She wondered why Mercedes Reynolds had her assistant request to see her. Next month would officially mark a year since Carmen joined the firm of Nash, Morgan, Vance, Tress and Porter. She closed her nutmeg brown eyes in a quick prayer. Amen. Carmen stepped off the elevator, briskly walking along the slate blue and white bordered carpeted corridor. She couldn’t help admiring how plush and stylish everything was on the forty-sixth floor. Expensive large gold framed art work lined the neutral walls opposite each administrative assistant’s work space. It was obvious the firm spent outlandish amounts of money to impress their affluent clients. Unfortunately, if a partner had a mediocre year bringing in new clients with big money, he or she could find themselves occupying an office on the floor below. Any partner with an office on the forty-fifth floor was an embarrassing reminder they had been unproductive. Down on the forty-fourth floor, where Carmen, and thirty-two other associate attorneys had offices was less impressive. The offices were small, and the walls were thin. She’d been fortunate to get an office with a window. The brown tweed carpeting throughout the floor was bland in comparison to the forty-sixth floor.

Mercedes’ assistant, Jasmine sat erect on the chair behind the desk in front of her computer. She smiled, peering over the monitor, observing Carmen heading her way. Jasmine eyed the young woman wearing an eye catching, knee length soft blush pink dress, with a thin white belt showcasing Carmen’s small waist. Morning! She’s expecting you! Carmen paused at the dark cherry wood cubicle. Jasmine gestured for her to go inside before turning back to the computer. She immediately began tapping on the keyboard almost in sync to music discreetly playing on a portable CD player poking out from under the desk near her feet. Carmen nodded, returning Jasmine’s friendly smile. She knocked on the closed door. Mercedes? Carmen politely poked her head inside before entering the sun filled office.

Morning Carmen! Mercedes smiled, shuffling to her feet. Please come in. Close the door. Mercedes sprinted around the edge of her large desk extending a hand. She clutched the young woman’s soft hand in a firm shake. Have a seat. She motioned to the single armless white leather chair in front of her desk. Mercedes’ thick strands of long black curls framed her oval shaped sable brown face, bouncing about her shoulders.

Carmen lowered her five feet six frame down to the chair. She smoothed out her dress. Silence passed between the two women. Carmen studied Mercedes reclaiming the padded white leather high back chair with round chrome arms behind her desk. This woman is very classy. Imagine me sitting in the office of one of the most successful litigation attorneys in the city. Practically anyone in corporate circles with any sense wanted Mercedes Reynolds to represent them, Carmen was thinking. She passed Mercedes a smile. Mercedes was one of the five hiring partners. Last year she met briefly with Mercedes, following Louis Greer’s recommendation to place her name on the list of future college grads for hire. He was much older, but the firm still relied heavily on Louis’ expertise in recruiting some of the country’s brightest law school students. Three weeks prior to graduating, Carmen received a letter offering her a position with the firm upon graduation. Once she passed the bar later that summer, all of the partners held a congratulatory social gathering after working hours. They officially welcomed Carmen along with two other new hires. Carmen felt honored to be working at the firm. You wanted to see me this morning? There wasn’t time to beat around the bush. Carmen closely eyed the polished woman seated across from her. If today was going to be her last day, Carmen figured Dragon Lady may as well discharge her, and get it over with.

Mercedes rested all one hundred thirty-five pounds of her weight comfortably on the chair. She angled the chair to the right, crossing one leg over the other. Mercedes observed the lovely young woman sitting before her. It was odd, but Carmen reminded her of someone when they initially met. Carmen’s light caramel brown complexion was flawless. Long, thick black curls flowed over her shoulders, complimenting the scalloped neckline on her dress. As Mercedes admired the young woman’s stunning beauty, she couldn’t make the connection of who exactly Carmen reminded her of.

I was informed by Wendell Vance, she began saying, how impressed he was with the work you and Taylor Gunn did on his bankruptcy case. Wendell thought I should hear it from him personally that my decision to hire you had been wise. He also informed me what a superb job you did. Mercedes clasped her fingers together atop the desk displaying manicured deep berry red painted finger nails. Her small chest rose and fell in controlled breaths. No doubt, she had the young woman’s full attention.

Carmen, what struck me most about Wendell’s conversation was how he marveled at your knowledge of litigation law. She smiled. He was rather pleased how well you handled yourself while working with him. Mercedes hesitated on purpose. She wanted to allow herself a moment to try to read Carmen’s facial expression. Eyes focused on me. Appears calm. I like that, Mercedes sat thinking. Carmen, she began speaking with a smile, I’m sure after working with Wendell, you recognized that he isn’t the kind of man who is easily won over. Matter of fact, Wendell can be an old stick in the mud. But, we’ll keep that comment between us! she laughed lightly. Mercedes moved her hands from the desk, dropping them in her lap.

For Wendell to choose a first-year associate as his second chair speaks volumes about you. Mercedes never took her dark brown eyes off Carmen. Upon listening to Wendell sing your praises, it could only mean one thing. He thinks very highly of you, Mercedes commented. She shifted her weight on the chair. However, Mercedes held the young woman’s steady nutmeg brown eyes, both Wendell and I believe in having everything done with precision. After all, when a partner wins a case that generates millions of dollars for the firm, we’re entitled to be more demanding of our associates and paralegals. Mercedes uncrossed her legs. She sat up locking her fingers together. Wendell—rather strongly I might add—urged me to speak to you. He thought you’d be an excellent associate to have on my team. He also warned me to swoop you up before word gets out how brilliant you are! Mercedes chuckled. So, that’s why I had Jasmine phone your office first thing this morning. Hopefully, I’m not too late. Mercedes paused. She still couldn’t read the young woman’s facial expression. Carmen, please tell me you haven’t agreed to work with another partner! If you have, is there anything I can do? What can I say that might persuade you to join my team instead? Mercedes remarked half joking. Carmen, recently I agreed to represent Oliver Langley. He wants to merge his family business with Haley Crayden’s family owned chain of department stores. She took a breath. I’d very much like to have you work with me on this merger.

Carmen realized she’d been captivated sitting in Mercedes’ presence. She wondered had she even blinked the whole time the woman was speaking. It was a relief that she hadn’t done anything wrong. According to Wendell Vance, she’d done everything right! Miss Reynolds, it would be a great opportunity to be on your team! Dragon Lady was turning out to be more like a fairy godmother! Thanks for considering me.

Before you commit, you need to be sure. Mercedes planted her size seven, five-inch black heels securely on the slate blue carpeted floor. I work long hours. Mercedes dropped her hands to her lap. My clients expect nothing less than my absolute best. These people pay a lot of money to retain me as their attorney. Mercedes paused. Having said that. Should you agree to be my second chair, I’m going to demand your time, loyalty and dedication not only to me, but to our client. Mercedes noticed the young woman didn’t bat an eye. Carmen is confident. I admire that, Mercedes was thinking. It’s only fair that I be as honest as possible. Before you accept my offer for second chair, Carmen, you should understand exactly what you’ll be getting yourself into when it comes to working with me. Mercedes relaxed on the chair. As much as I respect Wendell’s recommendation, he and I have very different methods in our work ethics—how we represent our clients.

Carmen blinked, lowering her nutmeg brown eyes. She returned her gaze across the desk. This would be a defining moment in her career. She realized working with Mercedes Reynolds was an opportunity that might never come her way again. Not to mention. Turning down the offer to be second chair could be career suicide. Carmen cleared her throat. Miss Reynolds, I’m not afraid of hard work. She smiled more easily. It would be an honor to work with you—be second chair. Carmen arched her back against the awkwardly designed armless white leather chair. Feel free to speak to Mr. Vance in depth about my performance. She shifted her nutmeg brown eyes around the office stalling, in need of gathering her thoughts. Carmen didn’t want to appear to be overly zealous, even though she prayed one day she might work with Mercedes. It was the very reason she wanted to work at this firm. Nevertheless, it wasn’t easy sitting there trying to maintain her composure when the woman inside was screaming with excitement! God does answer prayers! I’m going to be working side by side with Mercedes Reynolds! Of course, she wanted to be second chair!

It won’t be necessary to speak with Wendell again, Mercedes spoke firmly. Carmen, I want to immediately move forward. Jasmine will notify building services to begin transferring your belongings to the vacant office next to Richard Platt. I’m sure you’re aware Denise St. John has recently left the firm. You can temporarily occupy her old office. Jasmine will help you coordinate this move. It’s my hope the two of you can get you moved into that office as early as tomorrow. I’ve already began drafting preliminary outlines on the Langley-Craydon merger. It’s urgent that I bring you up to speed. Mercedes took a breath. Since you’re going to be second chair, you’ll have access to privy information the other members on the team won’t. Carmen, I need you to familiarize yourself with everything there is to know about these two families before we face Judge Harrelson in a few weeks. I’m rather fond of him, but he’s a man of order. Judge Harrelson can be quite strict when it comes to the mechanics of his courtroom. Carmen, we must be on top of our game long before we step inside his courtroom.

Carmen shot Mercedes a perplexing look. Did I hear you say move me up here? she mumbled. Carmen blinked.

Mercedes assumed they’d moved on from that conversation. Did she hear anything I said about Judge Harrelson? Yes, she answered matter of fact. I won’t have any second chair of mine riding the elevator back and forth throughout the day. Dale is already on board. He agreed to allow you to move up here temporarily where you can be nearer to my office. Mercedes smiled across the desk.

Carmen was in shock. Dale Porter, another partner, had given his approval to have her moved to the forty-sixth floor? All this time she thought he was a snob who wore expensive tailor made, double-breasted suits. On occasion, the man would pass her in the halls without acknowledging her. From time to time they shared the elevator, but his demeanor was always the same. Dale was stand-offish, and unfriendly. But it was obvious she’d been wrong in her assessment of the attorney. Carmen happily embraced the chance to prove herself to the firm. She couldn’t wait to inform her friend Taylor, that Mercedes Reynolds wasn’t anything like he and the other associates said behind her back. She also hoped he wouldn’t resent her for moving to the forty-sixth floor.

Please let Jasmine know whatever you need, including art work to replace those hideous paintings Denise left hanging on the walls. Choose the kind of art you won’t mind staring at—paintings that are tolerable, Mercedes added. Finally, a reaction, she sat thinking. Jasmine’s a pro at what she does. I don’t know how I’d function without her. She can assist you with any questions you might have. Mercedes found herself slightly distracted by the young woman. There was something extraordinary about Carmen Thompson’s persona. She recalled liking her from the moment she first made Carmen’s acquaintance during her interview last year. Carmen reminded her of those old feelings of ambition she once possessed when she began working for the firm. It was obvious to Mercedes as she stared into Carmen’s nutmeg brown eyes, she had the same career-driven qualities. There was no doubt in Mercedes’ mind, they were going to get along splendidly.

Chapter 3

Sylvia

S ylvia Turner’s cinnamon brown eyes remained glued to the rear brake lights on the school bus making its way along the tree lined streets. She watched until the flashing white lights on the roof of the private academy yellow school bus traveled down Birch Lane out of sight. This was the very corner where she waited for the elementary school bus with Jarrod, her older child. Sylvia reminisced about his first day of kindergarten. Jarrod stood quietly clutching her hand. Sylvia would never forget her son’s brave little honey brown face excited with anticipation to ride the school bus. When the bus arrived Jarrod happily climbed up the steps waving over his shoulder before running down the aisle to claim a seat. As the bus pulled away from the corner carrying her precious baby, Sylvia cried walking back home.

Here she stood again this morning with her second child, five-year old, Kayla. Most of the other mothers were familiar, but a couple of new moms recently moved into the neighborhood. Sylvia introduced herself, not wanting to appear rude, or stuck-up. However, she purposely kept her distance from the other moms chattering among themselves. She wasn’t one for making idle talk while waiting for the bus. Sylvia was convinced females congregating in one spot for longer than thirty minutes usually meant listening to unnecessary drama, which she did not need. She wasn’t interested in hearing gossip first thing in the morning. Even though the other moms were wives of doctors, lawyers, college professors, and men working for corporations, it made little difference to her. Their wives liked to gossip. Sylvia looked one last time down the street before leaving the corner for the short walk home. She turned remembering the other mothers with a backwards wave, as she headed in the opposite direction. Sylvia was mindful as she walked against the morning traffic on the two-way street. She safely stepped up on the curb letting her thoughts return to a time not so long ago.

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The minute her new husband Damien announced his desire to make their home in Arizona, she jumped on board with the idea. Upon returning to Boston following their quickie courthouse marriage, they started packing the few belongings they accumulated in their dorms while living on campus for four years. That was over twenty years ago. Sylvia never regretted their decision. During the winter seasons, it was brutal living in Boston. She couldn’t wait to relocate to some place with warmer temperatures.

Sylvia and her husband lived in an inexpensive hotel upon their arrival to Phoenix. Much of their daylight hours were spent searching for a house, as well as finding the perfect location for Damien to launch his own data research company. Finally, they settled in Chandler, Arizona. Sylvia immediately fell in love with the area. It wasn’t as large as Phoenix, but Chandler was plenty big enough for her.

When their realtor brought them to see a house in the small community of Limerick Estates, Sylvia believed God led them to Chandler where Damian could start his own company. In all these years, both she and Damien have been very happy living in Arizona.

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My how time flies, Sylvia was thinking as she slowly approached the slight incline on the winding red brick walkway. She passed by the two-car garage leading to a white brick porch, quickly brushing aside a tear trickling down her soft peanut butter brown cheek. You knew this day was coming! she scolded herself. Just as Sylvia was about to step up on the first of the long four white brick steps to the porch, her husband Damen swung open the front solid wood white door.

How’d Kayla handle getting on the bus? he inquired out of concern for both his wife and daughter. It hadn’t been easy for Sylvia to let go of their two children when it came time for them to leave the nest to begin attending school. Damien sat his briefcase down on the white cemented porch floor next to his right leg. You okay? he asked, cupping a large open palm under Sylvia’s chin. The only thing she could do was bob her head up and down. Damien gazed into his wife’s teary eyes. How about meeting me for lunch? His dark brown eyes filled with compassion for his wife. I promise you’ll be home in plenty of time to meet Kayla’s bus when she returns home this afternoon. Damien noticed Sylvia’s eyes lit up. He hoped she’d take him up on his lunch invitation. He hated to see her upset, yet Damien understood the bond between a mother and her children. Long before their son Jarrod ever spoke his first word, Damien witnessed the love flowing between a mother and her young baby. It was then he understood a different kind of relationship existed with his young son, and later with Kayla.

Sylvia held her husband’s caring dark brown eyes. She loved Damien for his attentive nature when it came to her feelings. Damien seems like the kids and I have barely seen you lately with so much traveling. We miss you when you’re away from home! Sylvia pretended to pout before breaking into a big smile. She reached upward, stroking the side of her husband’s clean shaven mahogany brown face. What time should I meet you for lunch? She playfully batted her eyes at her husband, towering over her five feet two frame. Woman are you flirting with me? Damien took hold of her soft hands. He was glad Sylvia agreed to meet him for lunch. Perhaps, he’d ask his mother to stay with the kids for a few days while he took his wife on a well-deserved vacation. I have a conference call at ten-o’clock, but I’m hoping to wrap it up within an hour. Damien bent his six feet three frame retrieving the briefcase. Tell you what. Why don’t you grab our favorite table at Amelia’s for noon? I’ll have Rhonda make reservations when I get to the office. If I’m not there by twelve-fifteen, order my usual homemade potato soup, chicken salad sandwich and iced tea.

Sylvia nodded. Alright! You’d better get going! Damien galloped down the porch steps, heading toward the two-car garage. With the push of a button on the garage remote clipped to his key ring, the left garage door started rising. He blew Sylvia a kiss before ducking under the partially raised door, out of sight. Sylvia hesitated listening for the familiar sound of Damien closing the car door. Next came the sound of the car’s engine. With that, she went inside. The second Sylvia entered the large airy foyer, silence fell upon her like a ton of bricks. The house was empty. She was completely alone. Maybe now was a good time to discuss getting that dog Damien was always hinting he wanted Kayla to have. Although, she suspected he actually wanted to buy a dog for himself. At least having a dog around while the kids were in school would be company. Sylvia made a mental note to bring up the subject over lunch. Wonder what I should wear? She went toward the stairs.

Chapter 4

Doreen

D oreen Buchannan sat behind her custom-made large candy apple red wood desk. She stared beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows lining her office from one corner of the room to the opposite corner. She sat thinking she must’ve gazed out of these windows seemingly a million times overlooking scenic views of Fayetteville Street. In the distance loomed the tallest skyscraper dominating the business district.

Doreen was the second black female attorney to make partner at the firm. That was fourteen years ago. Along with the partnership came a large corner office. She especially liked the office because the tall windows showcased panoramic views of the business district, unlike the other office she was shown before choosing to occupy this one instead. A smile graced her flawless round mocha brown face. Doreen worked diligently for everything she accomplished. She was fifty-six, single, and for the most part, leading a happy life. With the money saved over the years, along with making a few stock investments, Doreen could retire tomorrow, if she so desired. But she enjoyed life exactly the way it was. Over the years while working at the firm, Doreen’s career flourished. She found success in becoming a highly sought-after corporate contract attorney. Doreen wasn’t thinking about retiring any time soon. Her only child, nine-teen year old Tina was in her second year of med school in Virginia.

Come in! Doreen turned from the windows on the red fabric raised back, swivel chair. Morning Manny she spoke dryly. What brings you to my office? Doreen’s colleague Daniel DeAngelo casually waltzed inside closing the door behind him. He came near Doreen’s desk with his hands shoved in his pants pockets. He paused next to one of the two red fabric chairs position in front of Doreen’s desk. Good morning Dory. Is this a good time?

Your timing is fine. Doreen crossed her large shapely legs, resting all one hundred fifty- five pounds more comfortably against the back of chair. Red is Doreen’s favorite color. Anyone who knew her, knows Doreen prefers red over almost any other color. From the door to her desk variations of the color red flowed throughout the modernly furnished office.

Daniel’s brown eyes skirted about the room through the lens of his wire rim glasses. She has a decorator’s eye, Daniel thought. In his opinion Doreen had the best office on the forty-sixth floor. He resided in an office located at the opposite end of the long corridor. It consisted of typical dark woods, much like the other male partners. Daniel’s burgundy and navy-blue paisley print long sofa had two matching dark burgundy linen chairs in front of his desk. On the walls hung three unflattering paintings. According to Doreen, his office was boring—much like his personality.

Doreen saved the document on her computer looking up, meeting her colleague’s waiting brown eyes. Manny needs to stop biting his fingernails. Maybe it’s all those jelly beans he inhales, Doreen was thinking. She worried whether Daniel ever considered the amount of sugar he consumed throughout the course of his day, and that was the reason why he was jittery. Probably not, Doreen silently told herself. Lately she also noticed her friend’s head of brunette hair was looking less full on top these days. But that aside, at age sixty-three, Daniel was still was a very attractive man with dark ivory skin. He had taken excellent care of himself. Doreen could easily understand why his wife Stacy had fallen in love with him. Daniel was an unapologetic hopeless romantic.

When she joined the firm fourteen years ago, Daniel and Mercedes were the two partners who embraced her. The trio shared a history. Over the years, they developed close relationships outside the office. It was at Daniel’s insistence that she make herself an asset. Daniel began involving Doreen in some of his more tedious real estate and land development cases. His mentoring paid off. Along with another associate, John Chen, he and Doreen made partner within six years after being hired.

Daniel! Doreen cleared her throat. Whatever he barged into her office to say, he needed to get on with it. Doreen didn’t much care for the casual co-worker drop by. If one of the partners wanted a meeting, they knew to check with her assistant, Mary-Catherine on her availability. And, since Daniel was breaking her number two rule, he’d best get on with why he was there.

I won’t take up too much of your time. Dory, I know how much you hate—what do you call it? Co-worker drop by? Daniel joked. He held Doreen’s glaring dark brown eyes across the desk as he sat down. Daniel folded his hands in his lap, unmoved by Doreen’s abruptness. Alright Daniel, Doreen remarked through clenched teeth. It was normal for her to address him by his birth name whenever he began to get on her nerves. I have a lot of paperwork to review this morning. Doreen sat up linking her fingers, resting her hands atop the desk. Why are you here? she snarled.

Daniel ignored her. Okay, Miss Grumpy. I’ll get to the point. An old friend of Stacey’s called last night. Daniel shifted his weight on the chair. How is Stacey feeling? Doreen interrupted, softening up a little. She’s miserable and fat! Daniel laughed. He leaned his body forward adjusting his glasses on the bridge of his large nose. She’s also very emotional these days. Please don’t say anything about Stacey’s weight the next time you see her. He smiled. Dory, I never know who I’m coming home to! he laughed again. Stacey’s bigger than I ever remember Ramona when she was pregnant!

Doreen pretended to reach for the phone. I’m calling Stacey right now to tell her what you said! she teased. Manny, that’s a cruel thing to say about the woman carrying your fifth child! He innocently shrugged his large broad shoulders. Sorry, but I have to call them like I see them! My wife is four months pregnant, but she looks like she’s eight! Stacey is huge! Then Daniel’s brown eyes turned serious. Dory, I’m laughing. But the truth is, I’m really concerned about her—you know? He lowered his eyes, then raised them, peering through his glasses. He met Doreen’s empathetic gaze. The doctor assured Stacey that her most recent ultra sound showed one baby. Daniel paused. Stacey and I decided that we don’t want to know the baby’s gender. He smiled. But, if it’s a girl, I hope she doesn’t grow up to be the size of a football player! Daniel couldn’t help himself. He started laughing again.

Doreen found herself laughing with him. I was surprised, she began saying, resting her back against the chair, when I came for dinner a couple of weeks ago. Doreen grinned across the desk at Daniel. She looked like a blimp! Manny, I couldn’t believe how big Stacey’s stomach was when she answered the door! Doreen cackled in her high-pitched laugh, rocking on the chair.

Daniel’s dark ivory face turned red from laughing so hard. Can you believe I’m starting over with kids—at my age! I’ll be sixty-four in November. He unconsciously ran a hand over his thinning brunette hair. No! Doreen snickered affectionately. Manny, you’re nuts! she cackled loudly. Daniel’s daughter Maria with his first wife Ramona was three years younger than his beautiful twenty-nine-year-old, used-to-be model wife. Doreen recalled they’d only been dating about eight months when Daniel introduced them. That’s what Ramona said when I told her that Stacey was pregnant! Daniel chucked. His smiling face said it all. He was thrilled to be starting another family. Daniel didn’t see much of his grown children from his first marriage. Except for Maria, who made it a habit to contact him whenever she needed fast cash, Daniel’s eldest son and other two daughters hardly ever reached out to him, especially after he married Stacey. Daniel shook himself from unpleasant memories. Ramona thinks I’m crazy! he added, hoping Doreen couldn’t see how much he missed having his children be a part of he and Stacey’s lives. He believed a new baby was precisely what he needed.

Doreen knew enough about Daniel’s private life outside the office to write a tell-all book. His ex-wife Ramona was a gorgeous feisty woman. She didn’t take any nonsense from Daniel before, during or after their divorce. Ramona usually said what she was thinking and meant every word!

Manny, I’d love to sit here making jokes about your pregnant wife, but I have a client coming at eleven-thirty. Doreen uncrossed her legs, running her nylon covered size nine foot across the carpeted floor. Seldom did she keep her heels on when she sat behind the desk. What do you want? Daniel straightened himself on the chair, plopping his hands on his knees. Like I said, Dory. An old friend of Stacey’s called last night. They know each other from one of her former modeling jobs. Apparently, the guy let an ad agency use his private estate for a photo shoot—or something. Anyway, that’s old news. He smiled. This friend of hers needs legal advice. The kind I can’t provide. I’m a whiz when it comes to real estate, but you’re the expert on legalities involving messy contract disputes. Daniel crossed his legs at the ankle. From what Stacey told me, this guy his having major issues with the architect he hired to build a veranda in addition to his house. The two of them had a verbal agreement of some sort. Now Stacey’s friend is having problems concerning their original agreement. Daniel paused staring hard at Doreen. I thought maybe as a friend to Stacey, you might give this guy a call—see if you can offer him some advice.

Doreen held his brown eyes. And, why would I want to do this? Manny, my plate is running over with clients.

Do this out of your love for Stacey. And, never mind how much you adore me! Daniel chuckled. He quickly climbed to his feet. Thanks, Dory. Here’s the guy’s number. He placed a torn sheet of yellow lined paper down on the edge of Doreen’s desk. He turned on his heels going toward the door. Daniel hesitated, looking over his shoulder. Can’t hurt to give this guy a call. Besides, you never know. The two of you might have something in common. Daniel opened the door. He shot Doreen an irony glare. Stacey mentioned her friend lives on a private beach estate in the Bahamas. He stepped outside Doreen’s office, not giving her a chance to decline calling his wife’s friend. He closed the door behind him.

Doreen shook off the thought of phoning this man for now. She placed the piece of paper inside a folder labeled get to this eventually sitting on the corner of her desk.

Chapter 5

James

J ames Loberman’s dark brown eyes lingered over his freshly trimmed black mustache. He examined his handsome mahogany brown reflection in the twin rectangular bathroom mirrors. The exceptionally bright lighting above the mirrors may have been overpowering for someone else, but it was just the way he liked the bathroom. James prided himself on being perfectly groomed. His late father Harold was a very meticulous man. The apple hadn’t fallen far from the tree. From a young boy, James developed many of his father’s qualities, mannerisms and attributes.

The phone sounded from inside the master bedroom. James turned the lights off inside the bathroom, entering the bedroom. He rushed around the bed where a cordless phone sat on the nightstand. Hello. It was Glenda, his ex-wife. She was complaining about his arrival time from the previous night to get their children. To no fault of his own, James hadn’t come to pick up their two daughters until after nine o’clock. As he was leaving, Glenda accused him of being more concerned with pleasing his fiancée over his children.

James cupped the phone under his chin listening, but he could’ve sworn they had this same conversation the night before. This was not the morning for any nonsense. He glanced across the room. His gold Rolex watch was next to his keys and cell phone on a tall dresser. Each night when he came home, James strategically placed them there for quick hands on retrieval before leaving the bedroom the following morning for work. The phone started slipping under his chin, but he caught it in time before it fell to the hardwood floor. James sighed. Glenda, I’m pretty sure I explained the reason for being an hour late. Mercedes had a conference call. It went a little longer than she expected. He glanced around the huge master bedroom. She couldn’t very well meet me for dinner on time if she was held up on the phone—could she? Mercedes got to the restaurant twenty minutes late. I didn’t think we had to gulp down our food so that I could be there by eight thirty. Glenda, it’s not like you were hired to baby-sit London and Stephanie for the evening. James continued listening to his ex-wife’s morning rant as if she hadn’t heard anything he said. He was slowly becoming frustrated.

Lately Glenda was calling with one exaggerated complaint after another. His ex-wife seemed determined to pick a fight about their children every time he came to pick them up, or to drop them off. Her anger was fueled whenever she saw Mercedes waiting in the car. Glenda’s suggestion the woman he loved shouldn’t be around their children was ludicrous! James couldn’t believe she let the words falls out of her mouth last night. Glenda, you definitely need to get a grip on reality! Do you hear yourself? James quipped. We both know what this is about don’t we? Admit it! You freak out whenever you see Mercedes. You can’t stand to see us together! James reached for his watch. I wish you’d just accept the fact that Mercedes is going to be our kid’s step-mother next year. I asked this woman to marry me—remember? James heard his ex-wife take a long drawn out exasperated breath. He imagined she was rolling her eyes. Glenda, I have a very important meeting in approximately two hours with the zoning commissioner. The last thing I need this morning is you trying to mess with my head. I’m hanging up! As James was about to terminate the call, Glenda screamed into the phone. I’m not finished talking! James turned a deaf ear. I’m hanging up. Goodbye Glenda! Meanwhile, as he continued about the bedroom, he heard someone tapping on the partially opened door. Morning baby girl! James smiled going toward the massive walk-in closet. His youngest daughter, Stephanie entered the room wearing her pleated navy-blue skirt and white long sleeve blouse school uniform. She came to where her father was standing, flinging her arms about his waist. Morning daddy! she grinned up at him.

James’ six feet two muscular frame lingered over his daughter, standing four feet. He gazed at her thinking she was growing up much too fast. Stephanie was more like her mother than her two older siblings. In many ways James thought his daughter might be too much like Glenda. His baby girl could be loving when she wanted, but she could also behave like a spoiled brat. On occasion, he found himself having to scold Stephanie when she was disrespectful to her sister or spoke rudely to their housekeeper. He often wondered had he and Glenda allowed their youngest child to have her way far more than her siblings. James could never quite figure it out.

As he turned his attention to the carefully arranged tailored business suits, shirts, blazers, pants, and sport coats hanging inside the closet, James’ thoughts turned to his eldest son, Lawrence. His ex-wife insisted on naming their newborn son after her father. At first James was upset that his first son wasn’t going to be a junior. But Glenda had a way of getting him to see things her way early on in their marriage. Meanwhile, as Lawrence grew into a smart, and often curious little boy, the name fit his budding personality. Lawrence was now a responsible twenty-year-old man. James always made it a point to tell his son how proud he was of him every chance he got. Where had the time gone? James smiled thinking back to a conversation he and Lawrence shared over the phone last week. Excitement hung on every word as Lawrence expressed how much he was looking forward to working side by side with his dad at the family owned land development company. Ever since Lawrence was a little boy, he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps.

James finally made the decision to wear a gray single-breasted blazer today. He thought it would go great with his light charcoal shirt and black mosaic gray tie. James removed the blazer from the hanger. Then his thoughts shifted to his second oldest child, London. His ex-wife always believed when she and James traveled to London on vacation, this is where she was conceived. London was born two weeks prior to Lawrence’s fourth birthday. The instant Glenda looked upon their newborn daughter’s tiny face, James heard his wife say, nice to finally meet you, London Renee! That was how she got her name. Once again, he was excluded from having any opinion on their child’s birth name.

London was as pretty as her mother, but nothing like her. London’s personality closely mirrored her older brother. She was exceptionally thoughtful. London often put the needs of others ahead of her own. For someone sixteen, James admired how focused his daughter was about her future. London was going to college to become an elementary school teacher. When Mercedes learned what London wanted to study at college following high school, they quickly became friends. Mercedes felt a connection because her mother was a retired school principal.

James sighed. These were his beautiful children. He respectively loved each one for their own diversified personalities. What was even better. Mercedes loved his children. Almost immediately, from the moment he introduced Mercedes, they were genuinely happy he had started dating. His older children often reminded their father he’d been divorced six years. It was time he began seeing someone, especially since their mother had remarried. Stephanie was another story. James suspected Glenda was responsible for their youngest child’s reluctance to accept Mercedes. Despite Stephanie’s cold shoulder toward Mercedes, when they began dating, he remained hopeful. James could see it was going to take a while longer for his daughter to warm up to Mercedes. But with time, Stephanie not only came to like Mercedes, but she’d grown to love her too.

Daddy! Stephanie poked her head inside the closet. James was lost in thought, checking his appearance in the floor-length double mirrors. She stepped inside. Daddy! Stephanie raised her voice. What are you thinking about?

Never mind, he responded turning from the mirrors. James exited the closet brushing past her. He needed to leave soon if he was going to arrive at work on time for his meeting. Daddy’s in a hurry this morning, baby girl. To what do I owe the honor of your visit to my room? he teased, winking at the young girl.

Stephanie blinked at her father. She trailed behind him watching James turn off the overhead recess lighting inside the closet. Were you thinking about what I asked you? It’s been over a week. Did you forget?

James paused in the middle of the floor. What had Stephanie asked him? She was constantly asking about one thing or another. Who could keep up? His mind was drawing a complete blank. Sorry. Could you refresh my memory? James slipped one arm after the other inside the sleeves of the tailored blazer. Come on Stephanie. You need to get downstairs for breakfast. And, I have to get to work. James allowed his daughter to walk ahead of him under the threshold of the bedroom. I want you to eat a healthy breakfast before you leave for school.

Stephanie make a yuck face as she walked beside her father down the long hall leading to the top of the stairs. I asked if I could go skiing with mommy and Graham for Christmas. She rushed down the stairs, pausing on the landing, waiting for her father to descend the curved staircase. Stephanie, I didn’t think you were serious, so I guess that’s why daddy forgot. Suddenly James recalled a week or so ago while they were eating dinner, Stephanie brought up the subject about school Christmas break. He hadn’t given it much thought at the time. After all, Christmas was still two months away. You really want to go? His ex-wife filled Stephanie’s head with how much she was looking forward to spending Christmas in Aspen with Graham’s family. She wanted Stephanie to come with them for the holidays. James gazed down on Stephanie’s waiting dark brown eyes. For a split second, it was Glenda staring up at hm. Unlike London’s light caramel brown skin, Stephanie had her mother’s medium caramel brown complexion. Stephanie, he began saying, if you go to away, you won’t get to see Lawrence. He’s only going to be home Christmas Eve night and Christmas Day. Then he’s flying to Hawaii to spend the remainder of his holiday with friends.

Stephane reached for her father’s large hand as they walked along the hall going toward the kitchen. I talked to Lawrence on Saturday when I was over mommy’s house. She called him at school. He told me that he’s going to Hawaii. Stephanie kept up the pace of her father’s long strides as they neared the kitchen. Daddy, I think Graham was glad when I told mommy Lawrence was going to Hawaii.

James pushed aside what he was thinking about his ex-wife’s husband, Graham. For some odd reason, the man seemed to detest their son Lawrence, but Glenda seem not to notice. James entered the large sun-filled all white gourmet kitchen, complimented by stainless steel appliances. Shortly after they moved into the house, Glenda insisted on transforming their modest kitchen into her idea of a dream kitchen. All the white cabinets were a bit much for James, but he had let Glenda have her way. Maria, would you please make sure Stephanie eats all her breakfast?

His live-in housekeeper Maria stood with her back to James. Morning to you too, Mister Loberman! she growled. She smiled to herself, pretending to be annoyed her employer neglected a morning salutation. She didn’t bother to turn from the stove. Maria hadn’t been bashful about her disapproval of the Loberman’s divorce. However, she enjoyed working there. They were good people. More than anything, Maria couldn’t imagine working for anyone else. She was treated more like a member of the family, and less like an employee.

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Maria Sanchez came to work at the Loberman home a month after Lawrence was born. She was eighteen and spoke very little English. Maria left the only home she’d ever known in Guadalajara, Mexico to come live in America with her older brother Luis and his family. She was eager to learn everything there was to know about being an American. Maria dreamed of opening a small Mexican restaurant. She envisioned preparing the kinds of Mexican dishes her mother and grandmother taught her how to cook at a young age. Maria knew the only way to accomplish her dream was to find a job. She hoped to save enough money for a restaurant. Maria also desired to become an American citizen. Even though she shared a cramped bedroom with four young nieces, she was content living with her brother Luis, his wife Maribel, and their children.

Meanwhile, Maria was introduced to a neighbor, Brenda Rodriguez. She lived with her parents and an identical twin sister. Brenda was nineteen, American born, and street savvy. As a favor to Luis, she volunteered to tutor Maria on learning to speak the English language. Brenda did everything she could to help Maria. She also took on the role of a fashion stylist teaching Maria how to dress, so she wouldn’t stick out like a sore thumb.

Brenda had a job working six days for a family who resided in a prestigious suburb of Raleigh. She happened to overhear from one of the other housekeepers talking, who rode the commuter bus. A new neighbor asked her boss if she knew of anyone who might be interested in working for her. Brenda immediately thought about Maria. Later that evening she phoned Maria to tell her about the job prospect. She explained the wife was looking to hire someone to cook, clean and help with a new baby. Unlike Brenda’s employer, the new neighbors preferred a live-in housekeeper. Unfortunately, Maria wasn’t having much success finding a job on her own because of her language barrier. Brenda insisted Maria consider the housekeeping job.

The following morning Maria accompanied Brenda on the bus to where she worked. She met the woman in search of a housekeeper. Glenda didn’t care that she spoke broken English. She hired Maria on the spot. That was how Maria came to work for the Loberman’s twenty years ago. She never regretted forfeiting the dream to open her restaurant. God found her a very kind and loving family. James and Glenda both agreed Maria needed her privacy. He hired a few men from his company to work on weekends renovating the five-room guest house located across from the pool. The small house was a nice added feature to the property. However, the modest rear unit served little purpose beyond that until Maria came to work for them. Once the renovations were completed, James surprised their housekeeper, handing