“Are you saving part of the bench for anyone?” asked a deep voice.
I looked up, and noticed a tall, blonde man standing at the end of the isle. I looked at the space next to me, which could probably seat three or four more people. “No, not at all.”
“May I sit next to you?”
“Of course,” I replied, moving over for him.
“Thank you,” he said, sitting down. He pulled out the funeral pamphlet, and began reading it.
Just then, I noticed Ransom enter the large chapel from the west side of the church. His eyes scanned the crowd of people, and I wondered if he was looking for me.
“Did you know Carol well?” asked the man next to me.
I sighed. “Yes. I knew her fairly well. She was such a sweet lady.”
“It’s a shame. I hope they catch the person who did it.”
“Yeah, me too.”
“Her family must be just devastated.”
“Yeah, they are.”
“There are so many crazies out in the world. It just goes to show that you’re not even safe in your own home these days.”
“Guess not,” I replied, looking back down towards the pamphlet and turning away. I didn’t mean to be rude, but I really wasn’t in the mood for conversation.
Soon, organ music began to fill the chapel and the funeral service began. Standing in the first two rows, were Carol’s family, including Ransom, Remy, and Taylor. Remy and Taylor were huddled close, while Ransom sat next to an older woman I didn’t recognize, his face grim.
The service was heart-wrenching. Remy and her uncle each took turns up at the podium reminiscing about Carol, her incredible kindness towards others, and how much she loved her family. I smiled and shed tears through their reflections, but it was nothing compared to my reaction of what came next.
Ransom.
He stood up, walked to the front of the church, and stood behind the podium. Like the others, there was a camera focused on his grief-stricken face, which appeared on a large white screen behind him.
“For my mother,” he said in a husky voice. He looked up towards the congregation, and I saw that his eyes were filled with unshed tears. “Because, she used to hum it all the time when we were growing up.” He paused and wiped his eyes. “Funny, it used to drive me nuts at the time, but now, I’d do anything to hear her hum it.”
I leaned forward in anticipation, wondering what exactly he was going to sing. I remembered Carol humming and singing when she was doing laundry, but I hadn’t thought too much about it at the time.
He took a deep breath, cleared his throat, and began to sing.
Amazing grace,
How sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me,
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved.
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far
And grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
and mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.
When we've been there ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun,
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we've first begun.
He stopped singing and the chapel was dead silent, except for a baby that started fussing.
“Love you mom,” he mumbled, brushing at his tear-streaked face.
The church erupted into a roar of applause, and he stepped away from the podium, his head now down.
I wiped my face, still swept away by his performance. I knew that Ransom was talented; he hadn’t gone all the way on Icon because of his witty personality, or charming smile. No, it was his singing that had won the hearts of America, along with his enthusiasm for the music, which he had plenty of, back in the earlier part of his career. Over time, I, along with the rest of his fans, had noticed that his excitement and passion had begun to wane, especially recently. This ballad was a reminder of why he’d become a superstar to begin with. There was nothing like his voice.
Nothing.
I closed my eyes and sighed. The rich timber of his voice, and the raw emotion in his eyes had touched me deeply. I wanted to throw my arms around him, tell him how beautiful it was, and that his mother was surely staring down at him with loving pride.
“Wow,” whispered the man next to me. “He has a great voice.”
“An amazing voice,” I said.
“He’s a performer, isn’t he?”
I smiled. “You could say that.”
“Sorry,” he said, smiling sheepishly. “I guess I’m not very up-to-date on my celebrities, these days. I just got back from an eight-month mission trip with my church.”
“Oh, well that’s really nice.”
“Yeah, I-”
The organs began to play again, and after the music died, the minister gave his eulogy. When it was over, they announced that there would be a private reception at the golf resort that Carol had frequented, right after the burial service.
“Are you going to the cemetery?” asked the stranger next to me as we stood up.
“Uh, I’m not sure,” I replied, as he followed me out of the church.
He put his hand to his lips. “I’m sorry, I hope I’m not bothering you. It’s just that I don’t know anyone here, and Carol was my mother’s friend. Mom was too sick to attend, and made me promise to pay my respects.”
“Oh, of course,” I smiled. “I understand, and you’re really not bothering me.”
“Good. I also want you to know that I’m not trying to hit on you or anything. That would be horribly blasé. Besides,” he lowered his voice. “I’m gay.”
I should have known by his mannerisms, but my mind had been on Ransom. “Good to know,” I said as we walked out to the parking lot together. “I have to be honest with you, the last funeral I was at, someone did hit on me, so I’m sorry if I seemed a little… standoffish.”
He looked horrified. “Oh, honey, I’d react the same way.” He stuck out his hand. “I’m Julian, by the way.”
I shook it. “I’m Tiffany.”
“This is me,” he said, pointing to a white Mercedes. He dug into his pocket, and pulled out his fob. ”Well, in case you do show up at the reception, I’ll buy you a drink. That way we can keep an eye on each other, and make sure nobody hits on us. Unless, he’s tall, dark, and handsome. Or can sing, like Ransom.” He sighed. “What I wouldn’t do for a night with that tall drink of water.”
I bit back a smile.
His face turned red and he looked up at the sky. “Sorry, Father. I shouldn’t be talking like this at a funeral.” He turned back to me, a ghastly look on his face. “I’m normally not like this. A pervert. You must think I’m crazy.”
I touched his arm. “No, Julian, not at all. Tell you what, I’ll meet you at the cemetery and let you know about the reception. I haven’t made up my mind yet on that one.”
“Okay.”
I smiled. “And, if you’re lucky, I might even introduce you to Ransom.”
His jaw dropped. “You know him? I should have known. A gorgeous kid like you. Yes, if you could introduce us, I’ll try to keep my tongue in my mouth.”
“Meet you at the cemetery,” I said with a chuckle as I started towards my car.
“Okay.”
“My cell phone chirped and I dug it out of my purse. When I noticed it was Remy, I answered right away.
“I didn’t see you,” she said. “Did you make it
the funeral?”
“I was in the back row. It was a beautiful service,” I replied, getting into my car.
She sighed. “Yeah, it was. I still can’t believe she’s gone.”
“I know. At least Taylor is by your side now. That’s has to help.”
“Mm... I suppose.”
Her response wasn’t very encouraging. I wondered if she was still angry with him. “Is he still in hot water?”
“When isn’t he?” she mused. “Anyway, speaking of Mr. Showbiz, I showed him a picture of you, and he remembers your audition. He thinks you have a great shot at making it into the finals. And obviously he knows what he’s talking about, Tiff.”
My heart soared. Taylor really thought I had a shot? Now that was encouraging. “He really liked my singing?!”
“He also said that under no circumstances are you to go near Ransom. Stay as far away from him as possible. If you do and the network catches you, you’ll get kicked off faster than you can blink. Just like I’ve been telling you all along.”
“But-”
“No buts. Once the show is over, if you still want to hang out with Ransom, have at it. But if you really want a shot at this, you have to play by the rules like everyone else. He’s a judge.”
“I know.”
“It would look like you’re cheating!”
I sighed. “Yes, I know. You’re absolutely right.”
“Okay, enough about the show, and my brother. Are you coming to the reception after the burial?”
“Should I? I wanted to, but if you think it’s a bad idea…”
“No, it should be fine. In fact, Ransom said he’s not coming, under the advice of Sonia, his agent. It would be too chaotic, especially with all of mom’s friends arriving. There isn’t enough security, and she doesn’t want it turning into this big fiasco. Besides, women from miles away will show up trying to get their hands on him if he makes an entrance. I feel bad, but it’s the way it is.”
“Oh. Well then, I guess I’m coming.”
“Sounds good. I’ll meet you at the cemetery.”
After we hung up, I started the engine, and wondered when I’d get to see Ransom again. Although I was still excited about the contest, I was still questioning what was more important to me, my dreams of being a singer, or my dreams of being with him.
Chapter Twenty-Two
Ransom
Tiffany stood out like a white rose in the midst of all the black and gray at the cemetery. I wanted to go to her, take her hand in mine for comfort, but I knew she’d be angry if acknowledged her in any way. So I kept my distance, and weathered through the service alongside my sister and Taylor. Thankfully, Sonia stood by me through everything too, and I decided that whatever Icon was paying her, it wasn’t enough.
When the service was over, Taylor turned to me, and held out his hand. “I’m sorry for your loss, Ransom. She was an amazing woman.”
I shook it. “That’s something we can both agree on.”
He nodded and for once, I thought he was actually being sincere.
I turned to my sister, who had tears streaming down her cheeks, and pulled her into my arms. “Love you Rem.”
“Love you to, Ransom,” she choked, clutching onto me. “And…we’ll get through this.”
“We will,” I answered, staring at Tiffany, who was talking to a guy with blonde hair. Our eyes met, and she smiled sadly.
“Are you going to the reception?” asked Remy, backing away.
“I’d like to, but like I said before, Sonia thinks it’s a bad idea,” I replied.
“Well, Tiffany can’t make it either,” she whispered. “And security isn’t very tight. If I were you, I’d skip it. If you show up, we’ll have a stampede of young girls trying to get close to you. It will be a total nightmare.”
I nodded. “Yeah, I guess I’ll just go home then.”
“That’s the smartest choice for everyone, Ransom,” said Sonia, stepping beside me.
“I suppose.”
She leaned into me, and whispered. “While you’re there, try to get your hands on that contract of yours. I’d like to go over it with you tomorrow, before you leave for New York.”
“Okay.”
“By the way, you were incredible today,” she said, smiling. “Your mom would have loved hearing you sing that song.”
“Thanks.”
She nodded and walked away.
I turned to look for Tiffany again, and noticed her walking away from us with the blonde stranger, and wondered who the hell he was.
“I hate to say this,” said Taylor. “But, I still haven’t gotten rid of this migraine. Hon, would you mind if I had our limo drop me back off at the hotel?”
She frowned. “Can’t you take something for it?”
“I already did. It isn’t working. I think I just need to get some rest. I’ve been running ragged the last few days.”
“Okay, at least you were able to get back here for the funeral,” replied Remy.
He kissed her on the lips. “I’m sorry I couldn’t get away sooner.”
She nodded. “It’s okay. I’m sure you don’t have a lot of say anyway.”
“You’ve got that right,” he replied.
“Give me a call in the next few days,” I told Remy. “Let me know when you’ll be back to go through mom’s things, and I’ll see if I can help.”
Her eyebrows shot up. “You seriously want to help?”
“Of course. I’ll do whatever I can. I mean it, Rem.”
“Okay. I’ll call you.”
I gave her another hug, and then turned to Sonia. “Let’s go.”
After the limo dropped us back off at my condo, and Sonia left, I tried calling Tiffany, but she didn’t answer. I then sent her a text, which she took her time responding back to. When she finally did send me a message, it was to inform me that she was at the reception with Remy, and that Taylor had issued a warning about being seen with me. She then wished me “luck” in New York.
“Fucking Taylor can kiss my ass,” I muttered. I then sent her another text, telling Tiffany that I’d meet her later, at her apartment.
My phone rang less than ten seconds later.
“Ransom, you know that’s a very bad idea.”
“I think it’s a very good idea. Who’s going to find out? Come on, just one more night together,” I prodded.
“I can’t.” She lowered her voice. “I promised your sister that I’d stay away from you during the contest. Besides, we’re going out after the reception. For a few drinks.”
“That’s perfectly fine, I’ll swing by afterwards.”
“I have no idea what time I’ll be home. She mentioned me staying overnight at her hotel, and catching up before she leaves for home tomorrow.”
“So, that’s it? You’ve used my body and now you’re going to blow me off? Damn girl, I see how it is,” I teased.
“It’s not like that and you know it,” she replied, a smile in her voice.
“Then prove it,” I said. “Come on, let me see you. Please?”
“I-”
Just then Remy got on the phone.
“Ransom is that you?”
I sighed. “No. It’s Jake, from State Farm.”
She snorted. “Leave Tiffany alone. You’re going to get her disqualified from the show. Is that what you want?”
“What I want is really none of your business.”
“But that’s where you’re wrong. I’m looking out for Tiffany’s best interests, especially since she’s too enamored by a super-star like you to think straight. I’m keeping her with me, the entire night, so don’t think about trying to hook-up with her.”
“When did you become such a bitch?” I asked incredulously. “Was it after meeting Taylor?”
“Ha, funny.”
“Let me talk to Tiffany.”
“Oh… you have to go?” she said, raising her voice a few octaves. “I’ll tell her you said that. Have a great night Ransom.”
; “Remy!” I barked into the phone.
She hung up.
Furious, I chucked my cell phone across the room. Unfortunately, it hit my bottle of water, knocking it over. I watched in frustration as my phone got wet and the light flickered out.
***
Tiffany
“He really said that?” I asked.
We’d retreated to a private lounge area in the gold club after Remy had spent an hour mingling with the guests, and accepting their condolences.
Remy handed me back the phone. “Yes, I think he’s finally coming to his senses. He said to have fun, and that he’ll see you on the show next month.”
“Oh,” I replied, a little disappointed. Although it was for the best, I’d secretly hoped he’d ignore my protests, and show up at my apartment later.
“No pouting,” she teased. “Hey, here comes Julian with your drink.”
I turned around, and smiled as he handed me a glass of white wine. “Thanks.”
“You’re very welcome,” he said and then touched his chest. “Damn, you girls need to check out the bartender. Talk about delish. Which reminds me,” his eyes twinkled. “Remy, you really look like you could use a refill.”
She laughed. “You read my mind.”
He pointed to her glass. “What is that, a Cosmopolitan?”
“Yes, but please get me something without alcohol, like a diet soda. I’m taking Tiffany out after the reception, and one of us needs to drive straight.”
“Where are you two going?”
“There’s a new club in Inglewood that a colleague of mine owns,” replied Remy. “We’re just going for a couple of drinks on the way back to the hotel. You can join us, if you’d like.”
“Oh, I wouldn’t want to impose.”
“No, it’s okay. In fact, if you’re with us, then there’s a better chance that we won’t get hit on,” she replied.
He feigned a look of shock. “So, you’re using me?”
She smirked. “Not any more than you’re using us to get close to that smexy bartender, again.”
Tangled Mess Page 14
