Resilience

By Rue Volley, Victoria Flynn, T. Ariyanna and 9 more

Blindsided by a break-up? Betrayed by someone you treasured? Broken and beaten down by life? We've been where you are. Unfortunately, a shattered heart or hopeless day is a universal suffering that can connect us all. Women are caretakers and providers, on top of the many other hats we wear daily. Yet in the midst of all our day to day responsibilities, we shoulder crushing obstacles. Many of us feel we can't allow ourselves to miss a beat. So, where do we turn? The answer is simple; those in the sisterhood of life who have made it through the other side of trying times and can bestow their wisdom. It is that very brand of guidance readers will find in this collection of stories, essays, and poems. Written by women, for women who are experiencing the worst life can throw at them. In these pages, you will find hope through accounts of resilience, courage, and unyielding determination. A stone under extreme pressure becomes a treasured gemstone. Join us for an in-depth look at how women just like you have allowed turmoil to polish their souls into beautiful diamonds that don't break, they shine.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Anchor Group Publishing
• Release date: Jan 25, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224288205

Book preview

Author Listing

Copyright © 2024 by Flynn Publishing LLC

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law. For permission requests, contact Flynn Publishing LLC at [e-mail].

The story, all names, characters, and incidents portrayed in this production are fictitious. No identification with actual persons (living or deceased), places, buildings, and products is intended or should be inferred.

Book Cover and Formatting by Rue Volley

Illustrations by Rue Volley

First edition 2024

A MESSAGE FROM THE AUTHORS

Blindsided by a break-up? Betrayed by someone you treasured? Broken and beaten down by life?

We’ve been where you are. Unfortunately, a shattered heart or hopeless day is a universal suffering that can connect us all. Women are caretakers and providers, on top of the many other hats we wear daily. Yet in the midst of all our day to day responsibilities, we shoulder crushing obstacles. Many of us feel we can't allow ourselves to miss a beat. So, where do we turn?

The answer is simple; those in the sisterhood of life who have made it through the other side of trying times and can bestow their wisdom. It is that very brand of guidance readers will find in this collection of stories, essays, and poems. Written by women, for women who are experiencing the worst life can throw at them. In these pages, you will find hope through accounts of resilience, courage, and unyielding determination.

A stone under extreme pressure becomes a treasured gemstone. Join us for an in-depth look at how women just like you have allowed turmoil to polish their souls into beautiful diamonds that don't break, they shine.

Contents

What Is Mine

By Rue Volley

A Heart Recovered

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

3 MONTHS LATER

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

2 WEEKS LATER

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Contact Solease

About Solease

Books By Solease M. Barner

About the Author

Love Like a Rose

By Brittany Heister

ALWAYS BE MY BABY

Chapter 1

The Break Up

Cammy

Chapter 2

Guilt

Lucas

Chapter 3

Not Enough

Cammy

Chapter 4

Unforgivable

Cammy

Chapter 5

Mama’s Bear

Lucas

Chapter 6

The Group Study

Cammy

Chapter 7

Jealousy

Lucas

Chapter 8

My Roommate

Cammy

Chapter 9

The Phone Call

Cammy

Chapter 10

Bird Poop

Cammy

Chapter 11

Lunch Date

Grayson

Chapter 12

At Work

Cammy

Chapter 13

Sick

Cammy

Chapter 14

Homemade Soup

Cammy

Chapter 15

Back To Work

Cammy

Chapter 16

Party With Friends

Cammy

Chapter 17

First Kiss

Cammy

A Week Later

Chapter 18

Swoon Worthy Guy

Cammy

Chapter 19

My Sister’s Graduation

Cammy

Two Months Later

Chapter Teasers

Chapter Teaser

When The Wind Chimes

Mary Ting

Chapter Teaser

Chapter Teaser

Something Great: Hot Boss and Office Romance

M. Clarke

Books by Mary Ting

About the Author

Broken Chains

Epilogue

Chapter 1

August 15, 2005

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Check Mate

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Breast Cancer: Faced as a Bump on the Road, Not a Brick Wall

By M.C.V. Egan

Ghosted

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Epilogue

I Still Do

By Nadia Hasan

The Lies We Tell

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Books by Victoria Flynn

WHO I AM WITHOUT YOU

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

WOLF’S DARK TEMPTATION

Chapter 1

Cana

Chapter 2

Rollo

Chapter 3

Cana

Chapter 4

Rollo

Written In My Scars

By Karolyn Henick

Love Like a Rose

By Brittany Hiester

Thank You!

For Stacey

What Is Mine

By Rue Volley

My name rests heavy on your lips

A constant reminder of what you could not understand

pronounce

or erase from existence

My body rests heavy on your chest

A weighted reminder of what you could not

break

tame

or mold into your image

My strength rests heavy in your mind

A constant reminder of what you could not

cage

own

or steal from me

My presence rests in your memory

A constant reminder of what you could never

handle

respect

or deserve

A Heart Recovered

By Solease M. Barner

Chapter 1

I should have known he was an asshole. He had that stupid, quirky smile I hate, but I fell for it anyway. Every time I think of the pain he's caused, my heart breaks a little more. I feel so alone and broken. Yet, I still have to get up every day and be in front of people. I have to smile and pretend to be okay. Now, I'm sitting here throwing his shit out of my house because he's too much of a punk bitch to come back and get it. I can’t believe I gave him ten years, and he threw it all away for a piece of ass. I will never love again.

As I'm boxing up his stuff, my phone rings. The caller ID says, PS Bitch. I smiled because I needed to speak to my friend.

Hey, Von, I'm on my way with wine, she immediately greeted.

I hope you grabbed two bottles, I sighed. We are going to need it.

I can, along with some food.

I don’t have an appetite, Jackie.

Look, I understand, but if you don't eat and just keep drinking, bitch, you'll have more than a broken heart.

Haha, very funny.

I’m not laughing. You need food. Besides, is lil man there?

I ate some crackers earlier, and no, he's not. He's with my mom for a few days until I get the house back together.

Mexican or Thai? I'm getting food.

Mexican. And you're pushy.

Yep.

Once I was done talking, I looked at the pile of his stuff again. Tears rolled down my face. The more I wanted them to stop, the harder they fell. There was a lump in my throat as I forced the tears to dry up. All I could think about was what I did wrong. I just wanted to ask him why me? Why her? At least we had a prenup that would keep finances out of my heartbreak.

Just as I was drifting off to sleep, the doorbell rang. I took a deep breath and dragged myself to the door. Even though I knew I needed company, I really needed to be alone. But Jackie was not going to allow that to happen. As I got close to the door, she rang it again.

Here I come.

When I opened the door, she was off and running like a crazy lady.

I have to pee, she yelled, running into the kitchen.

Putting everything down, she zoomed to the bathroom. I went straight to the wine and sat down. Coming out of the bathroom, Jackie smiled.

Hey, I see you got into the wine already. You better eat a taco or tostada or something, too, she said, getting a glass and pouring some wine.

I know I am.

After fixing our plates and taking our wine to the TV room, we sat, ate, and laughed, talking about everything - but my problems. Sadly, I knew she would eventually ask what happened.

I know you said you put James out, but I don't know why. She paused, then added, But I have a good idea.

I looked at her and took a gulp of wine.

I guess we should get the other bottle.

Opening the second one, she added, No judgment.

Well, I started. Brandon and I had been in counseling for the past six months. He felt we needed to spice up our relationship.

To spice it up?

Yeah, he felt it was dull, and it was all my fault. Of course, he didn't consider that I work at the accounting firm and have been trying to make partner. Or that I have a three-year-old son, who he rarely ever watches, and I still find time to help him with the security service,

You’re his rock and do so much…

Then tell me why he is fucking his secretary.

What, the same bitch you said you thought was too friendly with him?

Yep, that bitch. I asked him to fire her three months ago, and he told me she was a good worker.

Right, a good fucking lay.

I hate him, Jackie. He is my kid's father. I know I shouldn't hate him, but I do. The only reason we're not together is because of me. I caught him and put him out. He wants to work it out, but I don't want his lying ass anymore. I don't want anyone ever.

I'm sorry. I'll help you any way I can.

Let's finish boxing his stuff. I'm going to set it on the porch.

We ate and finished off both bottles of wine. It was so late that we both crashed, finding a couch and blanket. As I drifted off to sleep, I heard Jackie snoring. The tears started rolling again, but I promised myself that was the last time. He decided to love someone else, to screw someone else. This mess was on him.

I took a deep breath and turned on the TV to put me to sleep. So many things in my life were about to change, but I knew I would never love again. I would focus on my career and son. I gave too much and got too little. Vonya Katherine Wells would never love again.

Chapter 2

3 MONTHS LATER

The alarm went off, loudly singing a beautiful song in my ear. Hitting the snooze, I lay there with my eyes closed, wishing I could get more sleep. Then, I remembered my meeting with a senior partner and a client. It would be a long and tiring day. I needed a hot shower before waking up my son.

Going to his room, I leaned down, kissing his sweet face.

Wake up, my son.

He squirmed and laughed as I continued to kiss him. He has been adjusting to it being just him and me. It'd been a little rough, but we were getting through it.

Mommy, no. He laughed. It's so cute.

Yes, you have to get dressed for daycare. It's a big day. You're going on a field trip.

YAY! He shouted, jumping up and out of bed.

I knew I could get you out of bed, I chuckled. I picked out your favorite outfit, and we can pack your lunch together.

Jelly sandwich!

Maybe, but you need some peanut butter with that.

Mentally, he entered his own world, trying to put on his clothes. I helped my little guy put on his clothes as he sang his little songs. I started to sing with him, and we had our moment together. I cherish all the special times because I have to share him with his dad.

Once we were done, he sat at the counter watching cartoons on the iPad as I gathered my papers. I had been looking over them last night because I knew this client was challenging to work with and thought we could perform magic tricks.

Okay, you ready to go?

Yes, Lil Man excitedly answered.

He climbed down, and we walked to the car in the garage. My phone rang as I buckled him in, but I couldn't reach it. Once it stopped, I figured they could leave a message, but as I got in, it started ringing again. I was "Low Life" - my soon-to-be ex.

My body instantly tensed up. We decided to let my mom be the go-between person to talk for us. Why was he calling me? I ignored the call again. After a few seconds, I saw he left a voicemail. I continued to the daycare, determined to have a productive day.

I walked into the firm. As I passed associates and partners, I was greeted, and then I got to Xavier Patterson. The new associate who was trying to make a name for himself.

Ms. Vonya, I was hoping to work with you today. I have reviewed the Garden file and know all the details. He was standing in front of me, looking eager and desperate.

I knew that look. Five years ago, I had that same desire before I made partner - the youngest to do it. Granted, I had help with my family name. My father was one of the most well-respected CPAs in the region.

Thank you, Mr. Patterson, for taking the initiative to look over the Garden account, but do you also know the client is not receptive to new people on the case as she is paranoid beyond measure. I raised a brow. I was not trying to scare him off the case. I simply wanted him to know what he was asking to join.

Yes, I'm aware of her paranoia, but I have prepared for that as well. You only have to say that I have always worked on the file, as associates are supposed to do a certain amount anyway.

I looked at him, wondering why he so badly wanted on this case. We sometimes worked on the Garden file for weeks or months when she came in. It was always challenging.

Why are you invested in this case, Mr. Patterson? You don't get anything except lack of sleep. You will be tired and wish you would have never taken this file.

He stepped a little closer. It took me a little back that he was so close.

That could be true, but how will I know if I don't step outside my box?

How will you know what?

If I have a chance… with … He looked at me. I was shocked. He must not know I plan on never dealing with anyone.

It's never going to happen. Don't waste your time. You should get on Ms. Flowers's case, or even Mr. Hatchens. Trust me. When I say it won't happen, I mean no way. If I had to choose between that or walking through a pond full of alligators, I choose the pond. It's not going to happen.

Wow, Ms. Vonya, you are cold-hearted.

As ice, now do you still want on the Garden case?

Yes, I still do.

Fine, get conference room B ready, and make sure there are refreshments.

I continued towards my office with its floor-to-ceiling windows and view of the city. I finally sit and start reviewing what we are doing. My office phone rang. It was my ex. Damn, why is he calling again? I'm at work. This is crazy. I decided to call my mom.

Hey, mom, how are you doing?

I'm doing good. I thought you would be at work. How are you doing?

I am at work. That's the problem, Brandon keeps calling.

He knows he's supposed to call me about stuff.

Exactly, he has called me three times. Could you please call him? I have a huge client this morning and can't deal with two crazies today.

Okay, don't worry. I'll call Brandon and find out what's wrong.

Okay. Thanks, Mom.

After the call ended, I felt somewhat relieved. Even though I didn’t know what was wrong, I knew my mom would handle the situation. I took a few deep breaths, gathered myself, and played relaxing music. The client would be there soon. I knew I needed to be focused and relaxed. The other partner working with me, Mark Lager, was one of the best number men I knew. Mark would every penny if you had a problem with accounts in your company.

Vonya, you ready to rock this with a crazy cat lady?

I burst out laughing because that was a perfect description of the owner of the Garden file.

Yes, I'm ready, Mark, but you know she will come in here with half-truths and half-conspiracy theories.

I know, I already had a powerhouse smoothie. It better work.

I'll meet you in the conference room. I had Xavier get it together and put out refreshments.

You know he likes you, right?

It’s never going to happen.

Mark walked away from my office. I grabbed my folder, lucky pen, and cell and went to the conference room.

I sat next to Mark, and we compared notes of things we found based on the files we received from Garden. Xavier came to the door.

Garden and company have arrived.

Mrs. Helen Kinger entered with two gentlemen. It was one more than usual. This was new for me. I took a deep breath and got ready for adjustments.

Hello, Mrs. Kinger. I hope you've been having a great year, I greeted.

Well, we are about to see if the year can improve, she replied.

I looked at Mark, who was already looking at me. I'm all ready for the crazy, but he was never entertained by her.

I have brought my lawyer, as usual, and my head financial accounts manager.

That's fine, Mrs. Kinger. We have no problem with making you comfortable, Mark replied.

Well, you know I have to make sure because people are always trying to scam me or take my money.

We are here to help you catch any scammers or thieves, I reassured.

Yeah, well, I brought in the rest of the files.

The rest? Mark asked, shocked as I hoped she was joking.

You know the internet has something called the black web, and your information can get on it, and it's sold to the highest bidder.

I was instantly frustrated.

So, what all did you send us, Mrs. Kinger?

Just then, my cell rang. I couldn't believe it. It was my mom. She knew I was at work. Were she and Brandon determined to ruin my day?

Mrs. Kinger sent over about forty percent of the files. We have the other sixty percent with us today, the financial advisor, Garret, announced.

We cannot give you the correct information today, Mark re

sponded. We need time to review what you've brought us.

I see a text from my mom. I couldn't respond to it in front of Mrs. Kinger. She would feel disrespected and take it personally. We continued the meeting, discussing accounts and money transactions. I didn't even notice Xavier was in the room the entire time, helping organize the files she brought

.

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief when the meeting was finally over, and Mrs. Kinger left. She may be slightly off, but she brought in around fifteen million a year for the firm. I looked at my cell phone and saw that Mom had also left a voice message.

I quickly walked to my office in case I needed to call her private

ly. I look at the message to see

, Hey Vonn, it's your mom. Sorry about the call. I forgot you said you had a big meeting. I spoke with Brandon. He wanted to talk with you before you receive the papers. He decided to file for joint custody. You should receive the papers today. Call me.

My stomach fell out of my body. I couldn't believe that lowlife would take me to court for my son. I did everything for him. I couldn't believe him. Just as I was about to have a total breakdown, I heard my name.

Ms. Vonya Randels, did I catch you at a bad time?

I looked up. My God, he looked delicious. His body was fit in all the right places. He was tall with caramel skin, hazel-gray eyes, and beautiful naturally curled hair that he had cut low. I go from being angry to looking confused. I had to have the god-like being standing at my office door.

Who are you? I said with my mouth open.

I believe we spoke about two weeks ago. I am Aaron Harris, and I hope to become a new client.

Chapter 3

As I pulled into the parking lot of one of the top accounting firms, I was happy to finally get my appointment with the fiercest Vonya Randels. I needed someone to help me with my finances, and I wanted to ensure I could get the company in line to expand. I'd heard fantastic things about her, including her beauty.

As soon as I stepped off the elevator, I was greeted by the receptionist.

Hello, welcome to Nolan & Zar Associates. May I help?

I looked around the office and saw at least ten people walking around. I'm hoping this office will not be too busy for my business.

Yes, my name is Aaron Harris, and I have an appointment with Vonya Randels.

Okay, Mr. Harris, if you can have a seat, she will be right with you.

After sitting for twenty minutes and being offered water and soda, I thought this appointment would not happen. That's when I saw Ms. Vonya Randels, with her colleagues and other people, coming towards the elevator and waiting area. She didn't even acknowledge me. Did the receptionist t

ell her I was there?

I watched as she returned to her office and decided I needed to see what was happening. She looked like she was in a hurry.

As soon as I could, I walked right into the hustle of things and went to her office. I could feel eyes on me, and I even got a few winks from women and men, but I kept walking like I knew what I was doing. As I approached her door, I could hear Vonya gasping in disbelief. I don't know what happened, but she did not sound happy. I should've left, but my company needed her, and she came highly recommended.

As I stepped in the door and was about to knock, I took a moment to let her beauty sink in. She was absolutely gorgeous, with short, beautiful hair styled around her face, deep chocolate brown eyes, and brown sugar skin. And I had already seen that her walk was runway-worthy. But I was there for business, nothing else.

Ms. Vonya Randels, did I catch you at a bad time? I simply asked.

After a long pause, she responded, wanting to know who I was. Damn, the day was getting weird. We had scheduled the meeting weeks ago. How did she forget? I may have to rethink her.

After we got through names and appointments, I finally told her why I was there, even though her perfume was mesmerizing.

Ms. Randels, I need your help with my company. We are trying to expand to other states and one day international.

Well, Mr. Harris, I need to see a preview of the accounts, and we need to talk about my fee.

Yes, of course. I’m willing to give you whatever fee you want.

Well, thank you, Mr. Harris, but if you leave your information with the receptionist, I’ll make sure you get a bill, and you can make sure I get some files to go over and send back.

I will make sure to leave my info, Ms. Randels, but we could just talk all this over dinner.

What are you doing asking her out? I knew I shouldn't, but the woman was sexy as hell. A woman hadn't caught my attention in a long time. Women usually asked me out.

I'm sorry, but one, I don't date clients, and two, I will have dinner with my son tonight.

Stupid move, Garret. She has a son but no man. Who left this fine-ass woman out in the world and single. I should have just waited to ask. I didn't play it smoothly at all.

I didn't mean to be forward. I just thought…

I know what you thought, but let me ease your mind. I do not want or will not get involved with any man, woman, dog, cat, alien, or anything in this life. So, if you ask me out for romantic purposes, I will boot you as a client. If you want to get food to work on your file, and we need to eat, and it's late, I will do that, but not today. I'm spending it with my son. You understand?

I didn't know what to say, but I knew she'd politely checked me. Ms. Vonya didn't play any games. Today was my first lesson.

Yes, I understand. I will leave my information. Next time, we need to get dinner as I have a lot of files and information that needs to be reviewed.

I walked out of the room but wanted to go back. Even though I heard everything she said about not dating, that raised the challenge

for some reason.

In the car, I hit the button and called my friend, who I looked at as a brother.

Mike, I just had my meeting with Vonya Randels…

Oh man, Vonya Randels is top tier. Look, she is not only the daughter of Vance Randels, as in VR INC. She has made a name for herself in the accounting world. Plus, she’s eye candy.

Yeah, well, I want to lick the candy.

Whoa, Aaron, choose another piece. There's plenty. There's a shortage of men. I heard Vonya's husband left after ten years. That speaks volumes.

It speaks nothing but that he was a pussy. You know how I feel about men that run, plus she has a kid.

Now, how do you know that? You were supposed to be talking about your own company.

It came up when I asked her out to dinner.

You need to lock your dick up. She is supposed to find out if someone is stealing and get your books right, not you trying to fuck her.

You know, I know you're right, and I'm going to keep it professional from now on.

Look, my advice is, if you going to work with her, keep your dick in your pants, strictly business.

Strictly business.

We hung up, and I drove to my business, T & T. My company helped manufacture different goods. I walked in and heard people speaking to me as Kim, my secretary, followed me.

What is it, Kim? I just got back.

Yes, I know, Mr. Harris, but I wanted to let you know that you have a virtual meeting this afternoon.

Oh yeah, thanks for reminding me.

Did she say she will help?

Yes, she's going to help. I'm glad because I plan on taking this company to the top.

I'm glad. You deserve it.

Thank you. If you see Paul, tell him to check shipping and receiving.

Okay, Mr. Harris.

As she left, I sat in my chair and took a deep breath. Mike told me to keep it strictly business

, but I couldn't stop thinking about her. I grabbed my phone and looked at the cell number the receptionist gave me.

Ms. Vonya Randels, it's me, Aaron Harris. Is this your cell number?

This is my number. I wanted to make sure you had it.

Okay, thank you.

You're welcome.

Also, I wanted to say… I think you're beautiful.

Thank you.

I'm going to keep it business only from now on, I repeat to myself.

Soon, I get lost in the busy day of being the boss of a multi-million dollar company with over thirty employees. It looked like a regular day.

Chapter 4

While driving home after picking up my son from daycare, I decided to stop and pick up food. I should've cooked, but I was too tired. My days seemed more and more like a wild jungle. Unlike his father, my son would love to have some McDonalds. After my day, it didn't sound bad at all. I pulled into the drive-thru. When he saw that M, he got all excited.

I want a hamburger, toy, and chocolate milk, mommy.

Okay, I know what you want. Relax, son.

Toy, I want two.

You're getting one toy, and that's final. Now relax.

I reached into his bag, gave him the sippy cup, and he relaxed. I started thinking about Mr. Harris and wondered why he texted after he left. I made it clear that I wasn't interested in a relationship, so why text? Why even try to pursue it?

I pushed the button and called Jackie.

Hey, what you doing? You off work?

No, I'm still at the hospital. Are you okay?

Yes, I just wanted to chat.

Oh, I have a moment. Let's chat. I have had a hard day.

You as well? Oh, hold on, let me order this food.

Welcome to McDonald's. May I help you?

Yes, can I get a hamburger Happy Meal with apples, a toy, chocolate milk, a fish sandwich, fries, and a large Coke?

Okay, I'm back.

Really, Von?

"No judgment. I met with a crazy cat lady today, and she brought in the rest of her files.

What? That's insane.

Oh, but let me tell you about a new client that walked in my door, he…

He… Oh, he must be interesting. Tell me more.

Well, he's gorgeous, like god-like, and I think he is interested in me.

Ohhh, what did you tell him?

I shut it down quickly. That is not what I need, but he texted even after he left. It was nothing crazy, simple pleasantries, but still completely ignored the request.

How did that make you feel?

A lot of things because I still haven't got to tell you about that other person. He wants joint custody.

I think not. He caused this entire scene.

Exactly. I will call my attorney and see how to fight it.

Well, I have to go, but if it’s not too late, I'll call when I get off and check on you to make sure you don't decide to put Brandon down like a wounded horse.

Haha. Bye, silly.

We finally made it to the window and got our food. Once we had eaten, I got Lil Man in some pjs and myself in more comfy clothes. When I remembered it was Friday, I was so happy. We could sleep in tomorrow.

After his favorite movie and some cookies, he was sleeping, and I was still up drinking wine. I looked at the custody papers left at the door. Each line made me want to scream. I really couldn't believe he wanted joint custody. I reached for my phone, and, against my better judgment, and because I had drunk a bottle of wine, I dialed his number.

Hello, Vonya. Is everything okay? Is Jr okay?

Yeah, he is okay. Why wouldn't he be? I take care of him like I always have. You never wanted to take care of my son.

Our son. And I have a right to raise him as well.

You lost that right when you start fucking another bitch.

Vonya, I didn't want our marriage to end. You put me out, remember?

You went straight to her, Brandon, so I think you have a lapsed memory.

Vonya,

Brandon, I'm not doing this with you. Let's finish the divorce, and please don't try to get joint custody. Stop this.

I’m not going to do that.

Then you’re going to wish for this day in the future.

It doesn’t have to be nasty.

Yes, it does. Oh, and we are back to communicating only through my mother.

I hung up the phone. I was done talking to Brandon or anyone. I took my son to bed and did the same. I should have fallen right to sleep, but it didn't happen. My mind returned to the new guy and why he was all wrong. I just wanted to move on, but that wasn't possible. I was still married, and he tried to hold up the divorce with a custody battle. It was a nightmare.

As soon as I climbed into bed, the realization of having to fight my soon-to-be ex for custody became so real. I hoped it could be avoided. Before I gave Brandon joint custody of the child he really didn't want, I would fight with everything I had.

Chapter 5

2 WEEKS LATER

It'd been two weeks. Vonya and I communicated through Zoom and phone calls. She was really distracted. I'd heard that her husband had taken her to court for joint custody. Everyone knew her father, Mr. Vance Randels, had been talking about him to business people and had blackballed him.

I had a meeting with her today. She had been so down. It looked like the life was being sucked out of her. I wish I could just be a support system. We have a meeting at 1:00pm on screen time. I have about thirty minutes to spare. I decided to make sure I looked presentable. I wanted to ask her out for dinner.

As I checked my teeth, my cell rang. I hit the speaker.

What's up, man? You licked the eye candy yet?

I couldn't help but burst into laughter. Even though I would still like to lick Ms. Vonya, she was so much more than just a fine ass body. Over the past few weeks, I'd grown to see that she was a wonderful mother and an exceptional accountant. I was so impressed with this woman. She made me feel things I had not thought about in a very long time.

Nah, she’s more than eye candy, Vonya is…

She's got you in the clouds. She is unavailable and still married until she is divorced. She is eye candy. Leave her alone.

You don’t know anything about her.

And you do?

Actually, I do. She is a great mom, loves her job, and even finds time to do community service. She is amazing.

Not amazing enough. Her husband left for a reason.

Because he's a bitch, that's why. I can't see why anyone would want to leave this woman. She is the total package.

Whoa, you're taking this a little too personally. You are not Vonya's man. You have no idea how it is to live with her. She could be a complete psycho.

She could be a psycho. I could be psycho as well. All I can tell is she that is loving and needs to be loved and doesn't deserve what she is getting.

You are invested.

I’m interested, to say the least, and at the moment, she is only concerned with not losing.

Well, I hope you know what you’re doing.

Me too.

After the call ended, I began preparing for my screen time with Vonya. The excitement rushed over me like a kid at Christmas. I made sure I had my files and notes because she's a stickler for having all the paperwork. Once I sat down and logged in, I took a deep breath. The woman made me sweat.

I logged in and was in her waiting area. I took a sip of my soda as I waited. Within seconds, her voice was in my ears.

Mr. Harris, it's good to see you today. I'm ready to get started.

I'm happy to see you as well, Ms. Randels,

It's good to see me? I'm happy to see her? Dare I say we were flirting with words. She must've been in a good mood. I took it and ran with it.

Mr. Harris, as I have been looking into your accounts, the numbers are slightly off. To be honest, it's troubling. Have you noticed any mishandling of funds?

Yes, recently I have noticed that my accounts are not what they should be, but I do not know why.

It will take longer, but I'm sure someone is stealing. Now, what is being stolen is the real question.

I can't believe someone would do this to me. I always thought I was fair to people.

It has nothing to do with being fair. It has everything to do with people and integrity. If they don't have integrity, they just don't, and once the opportunity arises, they will seize the moment.

So, what do I do now? Just let them keep stealing.

We can change some things around to make it difficult to steal, and that will also show you what type of person they are if they seek to do it more. This happens often. So, don't beat yourself up.

"Okay, I have some other files I would like to share. We could get dinner if you don't have your son.

She looked down as I spoke but quickly realized I had asked her for dinner. However, she had said if I was talking about business, we could have dinner.

She very slowly smiled. I couldn't help but sit back and enjoy the rare occasion. It was beautiful, and she was gorgeous. Damn, my dick was hard.

That smile can make anything better.

Aaron, she warned, then quickly corrected, I mean, Mr. Harris.

No, call me Aaron. We have been talking and doing meetings for almost a month. We should be on a first-name basis.

I think we should stay with last names. I don't want any confusion.

"Ms. Randels, do you want to eat with me and talk business? I might get another smile.

She gave me a slight smile. I was so pleased to see it again that I had to shift in my seat. The woman was driving me crazy.

Yes, I could use a late lunch. Where can I meet you?

Meet me? Absolutely not. I will pick you up, Ms. Randels. What would you like to eat is the real question?

I want something cheesy and good.

Okay, I can do that. Can you be ready in about an hour?

Yes, I sure can.

Our screen time ended, and I ran off to get ready for my unofficial date with Ms. Randals. I had been waiting for this day for over a month, and it was finally happening.

I wondered if I had time for a quick shower. Shit. I was nervous. I definitely needed to shower. I was sure I was sweating. I needed to smell good. I stripped in the hall, walked into the bathroom, and took a hot shower. I was out in a flash. I could not be late when picking her up.

I was sure she would cancel. So, I didn't waste time with anything but cologne.

When I jumped in the car, I could tell I should have dried off more, but it was warm outside, and I knew I would dry off soon enough. Once in the car, I texted her to get her address. I couldn't be a creep and just show up.

Hey, I need your address.

Oh yeah, 379 Lane Rd. Just pull into the driveway.

Even though it was supposed to be a late business lunch, I hoped she saw the real me. I wanted her to know I wasn't