Love Has No Time or Place with Lola and Friends: Volume 1

By VL Walters

Friends are like a family that brings a bond of growth that lasts a lifetime. My friends are my sisters and my family. We are all a part of an extended family. My name is Lola, and I would like to introduce you to mine.

Every story has a beginning, middle, and an end.

The story you are about to read is all about love experiences in one month—December 1985. December was a month of fairytales, clandestine destinies, and of course, some unbelievable twists and unimaginable surprises for some; all in the name of love.

You are about to meet four extraordinary women who have aspirations and goals just like the next person. They all share a common bond—they are all a close friend of Lola Mystique Bridges.

These women have a strong sisterhood that has survived growing pains, first loves, and challenges to aspire to the dreams held in their hearts.

Their bond not only strengthens their friendship. It solidifies their act to be there for each other, no matter what.

I hope you enjoy Volume 1: Love Has No Time or Place with Lola & Friends.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Newman Springs Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Aug 26, 2020
• ISBN: 9781640968578

Book preview

Chapter 1

At six-foot-two, slightly bowlegged, with a chocolate complexion, a dark chocolate shadow around his face, perfect teeth, and eyes that resemble black marbles, a body that exuded a heat that makes you want to get extremely close Sterling Dane Stanton was a hot commodity. He was funny, intelligent, and sexy as hell; a sports lawyer for the rich and famous. He handled his friends and clients pretty much the same fair, but he handled his women carefully.

The day they met, Lola was checking out some new art for her family’s club at the art Expo. Sterling had come in with one of his clients, while Lola had been checking a particular piece that had caught her eye. Lola was so taken that when she backed up, she tripped over his foot. As she tried to catch her balance, a strong hand came out of nowhere and held her. As stunned as she was, she somehow felt very safe. She checked her boot heel and started saying to her protector, Thanks for the quick save. As she proceeded to remove herself from the comforting grasp, she looked into two onyx jewels. The stare was a demanding one with a question that was not looking for release.

May I have my hand and arm back? Lola asked. I am okay, thank you.

Are you sure? was the question asked.

Yes, I am sure. Thank you. It was my fault, she said. I sincerely hope that I did not hurt you as well.

No, I am quite all right, but for my gallantry, I would like to know your name.

My name is Ms. Bridges. And yours?

My name is Sterling. Now what is your first name, Ms. Bridges?

Lola, she said.

"Lola," he repeated.

As Lola spoke to him, she could feel him assessing her, and they had just met.

He asked, What was it that made you become so entranced that you almost lost your footing?

Lola immediately pointed to the piece on the wall; it was a unique abstract by a new artist. The owner says that he felt the same way I did when he first saw it. I hope the price is reasonable, because it will go well with the decor.

He agreed that it was a unique piece. Noticing his friend was not around, Lola felt guilty and began apologizing.

I hope that your friend is not upset for me taking your time from him, she said.

No, actually he is here searching. I just came along for the ride and caught you. I feel that I am the one who has found a true work of art, he said.

A true charmer, she said.

Listen, he said, there is a quaint little restaurant around the corner called Angela’s. Let’s have a cup of coffee together. I promise I will not bite, and to prove it, here is my business card while you think about it.

Lola looked at the card. It read Sterling Dane Stanton, Attorney for Mackenzie & Gerald, located on Park Ave.

Impressive, she thought. So what type of law do you practice? she asked.

I am a sports lawyer, was the reply. So will we be having coffee or will we just talk here?

Maybe, but first I have to find the proprietor to see how much for the piece, she said.

After finding the picture would fit her budget, she had the piece delivered to the club. While waiting for her receipt, Lola contemplated a new encounter. After all, she was definitely on a serious sabbatical. She needed one. It was mind-blowing how these men seemed to feel they could have their cake and eat it at the expense of someone’s emotional expense. Someone always had to pay for it. Lola believed in a real response in a relationship. Oh sure, they cared, but more about themselves.

Sterling appeared to be an interesting encounter, and it was Christmas time. Maybe Santa thought she could use a new toy. All she knew was she had an attitude and a tight rein on her emotions, and no one was going to walk right in no one. With her private mantra embedded into her soul or being Lola reached for the receipt and made a note in her planner on its arrival date.

Sterling, it seemed, had said his goodbyes and was awaiting her decision.

Well, that is taken care of, she said.

Where will you be putting that? he asked.

In my family’s supper club, uptown in Harlem at Sandy’s, she said. Have you ever heard of it? Or dined there?

His reply was, Several times. The food is excellent.

Yes, it is, she replied, and I am the general manager.

From what I have seen, your uncle has made a good choice.

He seems pleased. You will say anything for a cup of coffee, huh?

That depends.

Depends on what? she asked.

On how expensive the coffee is.

Ooh, nice save, she said. He had humor, the dangerous kind; you know, the well thought out kind.

Come on, let’s have some coffee.

As they headed for the door, he stopped and asked, Do you believe in Santa Claus?

Doesn’t everybody?

No, not everyone, but right now at this moment, I really am starting to believe that he does exist.

Lola looked at him and flashed a perfect smile, and said, All that, and you haven’t had your coffee yet. Come along, chess player.

As they headed out into the cold, it was the first of December. She was glad to be wrapped in a wonderful sable coat with the matching head wrap. Lola had on a pair of black jeans and a sweater. Her hair was in one long braid. She was assessing herself for some unknown reason. She wanted to look perfect once they sat in the booth. Why did they make booths that instantly become sinfully private? she thought to herself. If anything, the privacy would give her a chance to check her attire.

As they entered Angela’s, Lola asked where the ladies room was as Sterling reached for her coat. She asked the hostess where their table would be located. Sterling announced that he would wait, and informed the hostess that they would be seated together.

I will be back in two minutes, Lola said as she walked to the ladies room. She felt two marbles burning into her back. She also feel a heat that she had never experienced. Not the heat that ran through one’s legs; no, the heat that engulfed one’s body. She was thoroughly flushed by the time she reached the door. She immediately looked into the mirror. At twenty-five, Lola still had that early twenties glow. Her makeup was perfect as was her sweater with its deceiving front. It was a beautiful boat neck, but in the back it made a V-neck in the middle of her back. Sexy as all hell and smelling of Jessica McClintock, she checked herself, making sure that all systems were go. As she proceeded out to the waiting area, she had the upper hand now to check Sterling out. He had his back to her as he spoke to someone on the phone. Lola just hung back and admired what she saw from where she was standing. It all looked firm and decadent.

Her mind was saying, Who’s your Mama? And who’s your Daddy? She must have been staring too hard, because Sterling turned around and completely stared her down. She froze and slowly moved in his direction.

As Lola got closer to him, she asked, Who’s your designer? Because that suit looks like it was made just for you.

My jeans have nothing on you, and I mean nothing.

Are you ready now? the hostess asked. They both nodded and followed her.

Yes, it was the booth in a corner in the back, in the dark with a moon roof. Lola had plenty of time before the restaurant would get busy. On Thursday nights, they started with jazz performers. That night, it would be Roy Ayers. The hostess asked for their orders.

I’ll have a butterscotch latte.

Sterling ordered a tea with a shot of Hennessy. Silence prevailed, eyes fell on each other, time stood still.

So, Sterling, do you live in New York?

Yes, I do. You see, I do business on the East and West coasts. Let’s play the question game. he said.

Make it three good ones.

He pondered it for a moment, and said, Okay, I do not want to know everything all at once. We do need some mystery.

As the waitress brought their beverages, he said, "First question. Are you married, living with someone or involved at this present time?

Lola pondered her answer, and said, And you consider this all one question?

He replied, I did not swallow, therefore it is one question. Another point for Sterling.

No, I am not married, living with someone or presently involved. My turn, Lola said. Why those questions?

Before I answer, I want to answer your mind. I have the same exact answer to those questions for you. So you still have three. I volunteered my info, he said.

I have one. Why the interest?

Primal attraction, was the reply. Interesting, she thought.

Her cell rang. It was Toni, and it said she was heading over to the restaurant. Lola asked Sterling to excuse her for a moment, and she alerted Toni to how it should be set up. She also advised her that she still had to make a stop home. Lola hung up and saw Sterling staring.

You’re doing it again, she said.

Yes, I am, he replied. So you will be at the restaurant tonight?

Is this question number two?

Yes, it is.

Yes, I will be there.

Cool, so can I buy you dinner there tonight? And yes, this is number three.

Sure you can, but let me treat you. I am sorry, but I have to make a run since it is almost four o’clock.

I can drop you. Let me get the car.

As he did, Lola was thinking about her next two questions. A silver Jaguar pulled up more specifically, platinum and out popped Sterling. He immediately opened the door for Lola. She slid into a black interior with grey and silver trim. She was immediately drawn to the warmth. This feels wonderful, she thought to herself.

As they proceeded uptown, Lola sat back and enjoyed the comfort of the car. It smelled of peaches and mangos, and it rode like a dream. Her mind was on the last thing he said to her as they left the expo. Do you believe in Santa Claus? Yes, I believe. Now she had a question, but it was for herself. Do you believe in emotional love?

Sterling appeared to be a very good driver. His car was immaculate as well. As they drove through the city, one could see that the Christmas Season was in full effect. Lola loved seeing the decorations during this time of the year. As they headed to Harlem, he asked where she had to go.

She said, I have to run home and change my clothes, and pick up some tickets for tonight. Then I will be heading back to Sandy’s and do my job.

Lola, what time will you be dining tonight? I would very much like to have dinner with you.

Lola was a little taken aback, but she responded with, I will be eating around nine.

As he came to a red light, Lola decided to be chivalrous too. Sterling, for your chivalry, I would like to buy you dinner this evening. All the time, she hoped she did not offend his manly pride.

Okay, he said, but I choose the music we will dance to, and I will also buy our drinks.

Okay, was her reply. As they proceeded, he turned on the radio. Luther was singing Better Stop to Love. As they approached Sugar Hill, the brownstones had literally transformed the block into a Christmas set. The block association did not play; they brought a certain understanding to Harlem. They cared. This season always gave her a little more added ingenuity.

As they neared Lola’s house, she told him, The number is 965. It is the one coming up on your right.

Did you do the decorating?

Yes, I did, I am in the process of slowly decorating Sandy’s.

Why are you slowly decorating? he asked.

So that by New Years, it will blow your mind.

I see, he said. Lola started getting her keys out, and he added, Lola, do you still have my business card?

Yes, Sterling, I do.

My cell number is on it. I just wanted you to know you could use it any time. Any time at all.

Thanks, Sterling, and when I have a nightmare, I will make sure you are the first person I call. Lola looked at him with a raised eyebrow, and then they just busted out laughing.

See you around nine. and Lola, I will be bringing you home after.

She nodded, and proceeded to open the gate, and climbed the stairs. The house was alive! Lola could smell her Mom’s cakes and, of course, the food she had prepared for dinner. She had made two cakes. As Lola walked in the kitchen, she gave her mom a kiss. Her mom asked, How did the Expo go? Did you find anything?

Lola smiled and said, Yes, for the club, and for me. She gave her Sterling’s business card.

She read the card and said, There is never a dull moment with you, is there?

Lola said, Guess not. Lola asked her if she was coming tonight. Summer said yes.

She said, Okay, then you can see him for yourself. I am going to freshen up.

Okay, she said.

Lola headed upstairs to her bedroom, which also had a small living room. She put her pocketbook down on the chair by the desk, and checked her answering service. She had three messages Maxwell, her architect, Sasha, and Melinda. Lola called Maxwell back immediately.

There seems to be a problem with the plans space wise, he said. But after some extensive looking, I may be able to pull it off, he added. Will talk to you on Monday.

Okay, Lola said, and thanks.

Sasha was in the middle of finals she was working on completing her master’s but would try to make it, hopefully by 7:00 p.m. And Melinda’s flight would be in by 5:00 p.m. She would drop her bags off and head straight to the club for dinner.

Now what am I going to wear? Lola walked into her walk-in closet decisions, decisions. She looked at skirts, dresses, suits, and pants, etc. I guess I will make a decision after a warm bubble bath with candles and music…and a cup of earl grey tea, she thought to herself. It was already five thirty, and she needed to be at the club by seven. Thank goodness for Toni.

*****

Across town, Sterling was driving to his apartment on the eastside. His condo had all the top amenities money could buy. Of course, it had a private gym. He too had messages waiting for him when he arrived. After locking his door, he smiled to himself about the thoughts and idea of seeing Lola again. What a perfect jewel she is, he thought to himself. Yes, Christmas was starting to have a nice ring to it.

Before today, he had no intentions of being a part of the holiday season except for being with the family. Women were not on the shopping list. His phone began to ring, and without checking his caller ID, he picked it up on the third ring, with the hopes that Lola was on the other line.

Hello…

Hey, baby, do you still wish to play hard to get? the feminine voice said.

It was Stella Timberlake, a haunting mistake he needed to rid himself of.

Stella, he said, how are you this evening?

I am missing you, was the reply.

Now I have explained to you that I am not interested in a relationship at the moment. All I did was come to your rescue and save your career so that your endorsements would continue. Besides, with the entire tennis enthusiasts team always raving about you, I am sure someone will catch your fancy.

But I want you darling, she purred.

Sorry, Stella, try someone else. Have a merry Christmas. Bye. As he hung up, a bad taste ran through his mouth. No one else in the firm wanted to deal with Stella Timberlake. His boss practically begged him for his help. Since he knew how to handle difficult clients, he always kept it strictly business. No ifs, ands or buts about it. From day one, she had acted like true alley cat. As time went on, he started handling her over the phone. Office visits were a no-no. Only when she needed to sign something would he see her. He once sent a messenger over to get a signature, only to have him return with an unsigned document because she had a question.

Stella Timberlake was guilty of all her misdealing’s, but as a client of Mackenzie & Gerald, he worked to keep their athletes happy, and the firm’s coffers full. Hopefully, she got the message, he thought to himself.

He then checked his messages. The first was from his lifelong friend, Stone. Stone Taylor was the kind of friend everyone had, the one who knew almost everything about you and at times could get on your last nerve. Stone was doing his usual chilling on a Thursday night, being the owner of a large cleaning franchise called Stone’s Taylor, Made to Clean, a combo cleaners-laundromat.

Hey, man, what’s up? Sterling asked.

Wanted to know if we could have dinner this evening? he said.

Actually, I have dinner plans tonight with a young lady I met today.

Oh? Stone said. Is she a new client?

No, she is not a client. She is the general manager of the supper club, Sandy’s. Tonight, Roy Ayers will be performing, so I will have to take a rain check. I also just received a call from my stalker.

Now what? Stone asked.

I know, I just rushed her off the phone. I keep the conversation as professional as possible.

I hear that, man, Stone said. So is your dinner date a prize?

I would have to say a rare jewel like a ruby comes to mind. Diamonds have nothing on her.

What is her name, may I ask?

Lola, man, Lola Bridges. So let me do me, and I will check with you later…

Chapter 2

Christmas was definitely in the air as Lola finished getting ready. Her mom had brought her a cup of Earl Grey and some homemade rolls for a snack. Lola was still undecided about what to wear that night. Sipping her tea, she glanced at the closet and chose a baby gray two-piece mini leather skirt set. She also chose a black leather halter top and a pair of baby gray leather boots. She would wear her hair up in a bun so she could wear her gray Shearling (coat) and the matching hat. She chose a soft pink lipstick and blush for her makeup, and on her eyes, a baby gray shadow with a dark grey eye pencil for a dramatic look.

Her jewelry was a set of black and grey pearl earrings that dangled, and a matching necklace. Lola was an easy five-foot-four inches with caramel skin, big pretty brown eyes with eyebrows that were painted on at birth. Her hair came straight down her back and she had lips that begged to be kissed, and perfect teeth. She had a body that showed she cared and worked hard to keep it. A sheet looked good on her. Her wit and intelligence were the combination of both of her parents. She was a daughter with two other siblings. She showed drive and determination in everything she did, and had a huge sense of humor, and serious insight in connecting to others, like today. Sterling was on her mind like a blazing fire out of control. Wow! she thought to herself, I have to calm myself down. Right, she said aloud. Maybe after the first kiss, she chuckled to herself.

She was admiring herself in the mirror when the phone rang. She picked it up and said, Hello?

Hey, baby, how are you doing tonight?

Her mind screamed Storm. Hey, Storm, how you are?

I am okay, he said. Would be better if I could see you tonight.

"Sorry, I have plans. Besides, that would not be a good thing.

Oh,