One Night in Texas

by Charlene Sands

  After downing a glass of wine, he asked for everyone’s attention and apologized to his family. “I’m sorry for bringing our name down again. We’ve worked so hard to improve our image, but I have to say the news reports and tabloids got it mostly wrong.”

  “They usually do,” Miles said, and others in the room nodded. Being wealthy and famous meant there was a target on your back, and he’d never felt it more than this past year.

  “The truth is, Gracie and I are going to have a baby. That part was factual. But I only just found out the baby was mine. I guess everyone assumed she’d gotten pregnant through an in vitro procedure, but as Grant knows, the treatments never got that far.”

  Grant smiled. “My lips are sealed.”

  As any good doctor would say.

  “I’m sorry that you all had to find that out on the news. I wanted to shout it out to the world, but Gracie wanted to wait.”

  He was met with a round of congratulations and smiles, which bolstered his sagging heart.

  His family really had his back, and he needed that right now.

  “The Gossiper wasn’t too kind, either.” Sutton had been furious about what that sleazy tabloid had written. “They can all go to—” He stopped himself, realizing Daniel was in the room.

  “Thanks, bro. But just so you know, I wasn’t going behind Gracie’s back with Rhonda. I was trying to help her with her brother, Lonny. My mistake was in not telling Gracie about it.”

  “Why didn’t you?” Lauren asked.

  He turned to her. “Lonny was heading down a bad path. He’d gotten in trouble at school and was acting out. And since I’d always bonded with the boy, Rhonda simply asked me to talk to Lonny. He valued my friendship and needed some guidance, and Rhonda asked me to keep this private. If news got out, she feared it would set back any progress I made with the boy.

  “Now I might’ve blown it for good with Gracie. It’s killing me that she won’t talk to me. I should’ve been up front with her. I should’ve trusted her with what I was doing, and now she doesn’t trust me.” Regret tightened the corners of his mouth. “And the worst part? I honestly don’t know if there’s anything I can do at this point to change her mind. Anyway, this isn’t a Sebastian pity party. I just wanted my family to finally know the truth.”

  They nodded and gave words of encouragement, which meant a lot to him.

  And after another round of drinks, Miles spoke up. “Well, I have good news to report, and I’m glad we’re all together today to hear it. Thanks to Chloe’s heads-up, I finally have proof that dear ‘Uncle’ Keith did more embezzling than we originally thought. Turns out that while Dad was recovering from his stroke, Keith took advantage of the crisis to siphon off huge chunks of money without us realizing it. And the best news is, the money is all accounted for and we’ll have it back in our hands soon. It’s enough to keep our other holdings afloat and enough to put the family back on track financially.”

  “That’s wonderful news,” Ava said. “I still can’t believe I let that crook dupe me for so long. Brian, I’m sorry to say that in front of you, but we all know you’re not like your uncle Keith.”

  “He certainly is not,” Aunt Piper said in defense of her much younger boyfriend. Brian might be a Cooper but it was in name only. He’d proven his loyalty to the family by helping to expose his traitorous uncle.

  “Miles, you’ve really saved our family,” Ava said, with pride in her eyes. Miles had once been the black sheep of the family, but he’d come around, and his firm, Steel Security, was a top-notch investigative company.

  “Thanks, Mother. But it was all of us. We’re all in this together, the good, the bad, the ugly. And it’s been ugly, but all that’s behind us now.”

  “Yes,” Ava said. “We’ve proven time and again that we’re a family that sticks together.”

  “It’s really great news because,” Luke said, taking his fiancée Kelly’s hand, “now Kelly and I can go to Oahu and get the hotel ready for the big launch without worrying about the family. We plan to spend an entire month there, and having this peace of mind will help take some of the pressure off.”

  “Pressure in paradise?” Harley asked. She and Grant were leaving in just a matter of days themselves, and so this family dinner was also a good way to send them off.

  “I know, it’s tough work, but somebody’s got to do it,” Kelly teased. The family’s mood was definitely lightening up. It was good to see.

  “Well, since this is a day for announcements, Reagan and I have some good news, too. Seems Sebastian isn’t the only one bringing a new little one into the world.”

  All eyes turned to Luke’s brother, Zeke, and Reagan. “While we’re in San Diego setting up the new family-oriented resort there, we’ll be also using the facilities for our own little ready-made family.” He looked to Reagan. “Tell them, honey.”

  Reagan didn’t hesitate. “We’re having twins!”

  Gasps of joy filled the room. Everyone rose to congratulate Zeke and Reagan, and Sebastian was incredibly happy for them. Seems his family was finally blessed with good news. It only made him wish for a second chance with Gracie. Or was that a third or fourth? He’d certainly messed up his chances.

  And after everyone was settled back in their seats, Brian stood up with glass in hand. “I’d like to propose a toast.”

  The room quieted and all eyes were on Brian Cooper at the opposite end of the table. “But first I have something to say. I can’t tell you how sorry I am about what my uncle did to Wingate Enterprises. It was unforgivable and I’m truly glad he’s out of all our lives now. But I’m also grateful that despite everything, all of you have welcomed me into your homes and family.” He cleared his throat. “And since this is a day for announcements, I’d like to add to the happiness. Ava,” he said, garnering her full attention, “you’re going to be an aunt again.”

  His mother’s mouth just about dropped to the floor. Her eyes riveted to her sister, Piper.

  And Piper acknowledged her with an excited nod of the head.

  “Yes, it’s true.” Piper took Brian’s hand and rose, moving to stand beside him. “We didn’t want to steal anyone’s thunder today. But yes, Brian and I are having a baby. We’ll think about a wedding some time down the line, but right now we’re excited for this child.”

  His mother walked over to Aunt Piper. “You robbed the cradle,” she said. The entire family watched on with trepidation. Ava and Piper hadn’t always been close, so everyone’s eyes were on his mother. “Lucky you,” she declared finally, wrapping her arms around her sister and hugging her to her chest. “Congratulations,” she murmured, turning to kiss Brian’s cheek. “May I finish the toast?” she asked him.

  He handed her the glass and took a step back. Ava began, “This family...well, we’ve been through a lot, and I can’t say it’s always been pleasant. But we survived and are stronger for it. So this toast is for each and every one of you and the new little ones to arrive soon. May we always be close, be loyal, be true. May this family not only survive, but thrive. Here’s to our family,” Ava said, her eyes misting up as she raised her glass.

  Glasses clinked, and there were heartwarming smiles all around.

  Now, if only Gracie were here by his side, all would be perfect.

  Ten

  Keeping busy was the only thing keeping Gracie sane at the moment. She’d never felt lonelier in her life. She moved around her house as if in slow motion, thinking back on her time with Sebastian. They’d had something pretty wonderful together that only lasted mere days, but it had been gut-wrenchingly powerful, and now it was gone. He’d stopped calling and texting as she’d asked. It only made her feel hollow inside and so incredibly sad.

  Had Sebastian moved on already?

  Had he given up on her?

  It wasn’t that she wanted to speak to him, but if she was being totally honest, a part of
her wanted to know he was suffering as much as she was. She wanted to know that he felt the same emptiness. Was that selfish of her?

  Why couldn’t things just go back to the way they were before?

  When her doorbell rang, she quickly opened the door to Beth. “Hi, I’m a little early.”

  “That’s no problem. I’m happy to see you.”

  “Same here.”

  They hugged a little longer than usual, Gracie needing the support. She’d called Beth this morning and they’d spoken about her honeymoon with Cam, which had been fabulous. Gracie wanted to explain to Beth about the baby and why she hadn’t told her that Sebastian was the father. It was a misstep on her part and she apologized. Luckily, Beth hadn’t taken offense. Then they’d lamented about how much they missed seeing each other, and Gracie had invited her over. “Come in. I made lunch for us.”

  “Something wildly Mexican and tasty?”

  “Your favorite. Enchiladas. Come into the kitchen.”

  It was great having her friend here now, filling the empty void in her heart for a little while. She led Beth into her modest kitchen. “Tea, lemonade, wine? What can I get you to drink?”

  “I’d love some tea, Gracie, and if you don’t mind me saying so, you look...”

  “Terrible, I know.”

  “No, you could never look terrible. But you’re stressed, aren’t you?”

  She gave her a half smile. “A bit.”

  “I thought so.”

  Beth took her hand. “I’m worried about you.”

  “Don’t be, Beth. You know I’ll bounce back. I always do.”

  Beth gave her a skeptical look. “Nice try, Gracie, but this is me and I know you better than that. You’re hurting.”

  She shrugged and offered her friend a seat. “I’ll be fine...eventually.” She didn’t really think so, not with the way she’d been feeling lately, but it sounded good.

  Gracie warmed a pot of tea on the stove and then picked up a pair of pot holders and took the dish of enchiladas out of the oven.

  “Oh, those smell delish. Can I help with anything?”

  “No, thanks. I’m good.” She poured two cups of tea and then placed a salad on the table.

  “You’re a busy bee to keep your mind off...things. I recognize the traits, Gracie. I’m a lot like that, too.”

  “Guilty as charged.” She dished up the enchiladas, steam rising up off the cheesy topping, and set the plates down on the table. “Here we go.”

  “Those look wonderful. My mouth is watering.”

  “Let’s dig in. Baby is hungry, too.”

  Beth’s eyes softened immediately as she gazed down at Gracie’s belly. “Did you know that you’re in good company? We had a family dinner the other night and found out that Aunt Piper is pregnant, too. And so are Zeke and Reagan—those two are having twins, for heaven’s sakes. I can’t keep up with my family.”

  Gracie smiled. “I know. That’s very good news. Babies bring so much joy. Your family is expanding, isn’t it?”

  “Yeah, it sure is. Only thing is, Sebastian looks about as frazzled as you do. He’s hurting, too, Gracie. He told the family about what happened and apologized for bringing the family’s image down again, but none of it is true. He has a good explanation for all of it.”

  Gracie picked up her fork, and wished Beth would do the same. She was sorry Beth had to find out about the baby through some sleazy tabloid article; she’d wanted to tell her friend herself. But as far as Sebastian was concerned, she didn’t want to hear it. She’d never forget the way he’d reacted to her marriage proposal, and if that wasn’t her first clue, then him seeing his ex-girlfriend behind her back certainly was. Add in that his company needed cash to completely get out of the red, and she had a rock-solid case of no-can-do.

  “I really don’t want to talk about Sebastian, if you don’t mind.”

  “I, uh, sure. All I’m going to say is to please think about giving the guy a chance to explain. And now,” she said, making a zipping gesture over her mouth, “I promise, no more talk about my brother.”

  “Thank you,” Gracie said. “I’m not a horrible person, you know, but I’ve been hurt and...”

  Beth took her hand. “I get it. We won’t talk about it. I’m not judging you. And I’m here if you need me.”

  “I know you are.”

  Beth finally dug into her food. She made a satisfied face and sighed quietly as she chewed. “This is heaven.”

  “I’m glad you like it. It’s a foolproof recipe, handed down from my grandmother.”

  “I love that you’re keeping your family traditions alive like that. It’s special.”

  “I do try whenever I can,” Gracie said.

  “You should be a chef specializing in Mexican cuisine.”

  “No, I think I’ll leave that to Lauren, thank you very much. Actually, I wanted to pick your brain about something else. If you’re up to it.”

  “Sure. What’s up?” Beth asked.

  “Well, I’m still hoping to become an event planner and open up my own business. I’ve been looking for a space to lease or buy. But since you’re an expert at it, would you mind giving me pointers and tips on getting started? I think I have pregnancy brain.”

  “That is a thing.”

  “Oh, how well I know it!” she said. “So maybe you can clear up some questions I have and we can go from there.”

  “Okay, sure. And, Gracie, just for the record, I think it’s admirable that you want to pursue your dream. I know you’ll be a success and a great mommy, too.”

  “That’s my goal.”

  “Okay, so ask away.”

  It was almost three o’clock before they finished their talk and Beth left. Gracie felt inspired after getting her questions answered. Beth had a wealth of knowledge in the event-planning department. She’d planned so many Wingate parties and charity events in her life, and was generous in sharing the business side of it, as well. With her mind spinning in several directions, Gracie got lost in thought. And so when the doorbell rang again, it took her a few seconds to realize someone was at her door.

  “Just a minute,” she said. Gracie had given her housekeeper the day off, which had worked out perfectly since she needed to keep busy, and cooking and cleaning had done the trick.

  She opened the door and stared into the striking blue-green eyes of supermodel Rhonda Pearson. Her first inclination was to slam the door in her face. But she wouldn’t do that.

  “I know, I’m probably the last person on earth you wanted to see.”

  They’d never met before, yet the woman assumed she knew who she was. Well, yes, she was that famous.

  “I’m Rhonda.” She put out her hand.

  Gracie shook it once—she hated her manners at times. “Gracie.”

  “May I come in?”

  She really wasn’t up to this. “It depends.”

  “Before you think otherwise, Sebastian has no idea I’m here. I guess you could say I’m here at my own risk. He’d actually murder me in my sleep if he found out I came to speak with you.”

  Gracie had had a fleeting notion to do the same to the two of them when she’d seen them in that cozy scene on the news. It had knocked her for a loop. “And why is that?”

  “Can I please come in? I’d love to explain everything.”

  Gracie sighed. So many people had encouraged her to hear Sebastian out, but maybe this was the next best thing. “Yes, please. Come inside.”

  She showed Rhonda to her living room and offered her a seat.

  “Thank you,” the other woman said.

  Gracie nodded, took a seat, too, and continued to stare at the gorgeous supermodel. Rhonda’s features were picture-perfect, with big turquoise eyes, long, luscious blond hair and a figure that wouldn’t ever know a bad fit.

  Rhonda seeme
d confident in her own skin and didn’t seem to mind Gracie’s staring. It was as if she expected it, which wasn’t so much conceited as it was honest. She banked her life on her good looks, flawless skin and body. “So tell me exactly why you are here.”

  “That’s easy to answer. I’m here for Sebastian. One good turn deserves another. Even though he would hate that I came here.”

  “Yes, you’ve said that already.”

  “You see, I’m raising my younger brother, Lonny. And when Sebastian and I were together, Lonny became attached to him. They really got along great. Sebastian was such a good role model to Lonny, and my brother was at his best around Sebastian. Only, when my relationship with Sebastian ended, I thought a clean break would be best for Lonny. But that apparently was totally wrong. Sebastian lost touch with Lonny, mostly because of me. And because his company started having trouble. I didn’t realize how much Sebastian meant to Lonny until he started acting out.”

  Rhonda sighed. “Let’s face it, it’s not easy having your big sister modeling bathing suits all over magazine covers and being under the scrutiny of the paparazzi. Lonny is at a sensitive age. I mean, do you remember when you were fifteen? It’s tough. And there’s tons of peer pressure. Anyway, when I came back to town recently to give Lonny a good home life, his rebellion didn’t end. It got worse. So I called Sebastian and asked for his help. I knew he could get through to him.”

  “You’re saying Sebastian was meeting you secretly for Lonny’s sake?”

  “Yes, and it’s all my fault he didn’t confide in you. I made him promise not to tell a soul, in order to protect my brother. If news got out about him getting into trouble, the paparazzi would’ve damaged him, permanently, I’m afraid.”

  “Sebastian lied to me about where he was.”

  “If he did, I’m sorry. But you see, he bailed Lonny out of a jam. My brother got in with the wrong crowd, and the boys vandalized a building. He could’ve gone to jail if Sebastian didn’t convince him to own up to what he did. Lonny confessed and Sebastian pulled some strings to get a judge to give Lonny a second chance.”