Untrusting Hearts: A Contemporary New Orleans Romance

by Hartt, Madison

  “You will do no such thing, young man,” Maylene said in an aside. “You’re drunk and you shouldn’t drive at all.”

  “I’m fine, Auntie.”

  “Don’t Auntie me, Ty. Call a cab.” Maylene stormed toward the door with Gage at her heels. Jade sneaked a look over her shoulder at Ty as she followed along. He stayed at the table, downing one more drink as he watched them go. A look of resentment marred his handsome features.

  In the car, Maylene gushed over the evening. “Oh, I had such a good time. In fact, it looked like we all did. You should take Jade dancing again before she leaves,” she suggested to Gage.

  He murmured something vague and Jade stared out the window at the city lights.

  Once back at the house, Maylene asked Gage in for coffee and cake. Jade, more than anything, wanted him to just go home, so, of course, he accepted.

  “Ciana?” Maylene called. The young girl appeared from the bowels of the house. “Please bring coffee and cake into the sitting room. Don’t worry about staying up; we’ll take care of the dishes.”

  “Yes, ma’am.” Ciana gave a brief curtsy and left the room. She returned within minutes with the requested tray, set it on a side table, and excused herself.

  “Now, if you two will give me a few minutes, I’m going to get out of these confining clothes.” Maylene didn’t wait for a response before leaving Jade alone with Gage.

  “Shall I pour?” Gage asked, indicating the coffee.

  “Thank you, but I really don’t like coffee.”

  “That so? Would you care for hot tea?”

  “I’ll just grab a Coke. I won’t be but a minute.” Jade dashed into the kitchen, startling Ciana who was wiping down the counters before calling it a night.

  “Oh, Miss Jade. You frightened me.”

  “Sorry, Ciana. I just need a soda.”

  “You do not drink coffee?”

  “Never liked it. I usually have hot tea or, preferably, a Coke.” Jade gave a small laugh.

  “I will remember. Here, let me do it.” Jade had been opening cabinets in search of a glass. Ciana made a shooing motion and Jade stepped back, allowing the girl to fill a glass with soda and ice. As she handed it to Jade, she asked, “Anything else?”

  Jade eyed the door, trying to think of a way to avoid going back into the room where she’d be alone with Gage. “No. That’s all. Thank you.”

  Gage was standing when Jade reentered the sitting room. Jade was moving past him when he reached out, took her drink from her hand, and set it aside.

  “Excuse me?” Jade looked askance.

  In response, Gage pulled her close, a hand sliding up her neck.

  Heat rose in her like a sudden storm and she automatically raised her lips to accept his. But a kiss wasn’t his intention. “We mustn’t let you forget to return these,” he said as he removed an earring.

  Slapping his hand, Jade turned away, humiliated by her obvious desire to have his lips on hers. She quickly slipped off the other earring, managed to undo the necklace, and dropped them both into his outstretched palm before walking to the door. Over her shoulder, she snapped, “I would have returned them, Mr. Pichot. I am not a thief.” She stormed up the stairs, meeting Maylene as she exited her room.

  “Jade? Is something wrong?”

  “No, Maylene, everything is grand.” Then, remembering her manners, she forced a polite tone into her voice. “I’m sorry. That sounded rude. It’s just that I’ve developed a raging headache. So if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to bed.”

  “Oh, that’s too bad,” Maylene said softly. “Can I bring you some aspirin?”

  “Thank you, but no. I just need to lie down.”

  “Of course, you must get some sleep. I’ve some matters to discuss with Gage and then will retire also.”

  “Speaking of Gage, I left your jewelry in his safekeeping.”

  Maylene frowned slightly, obviously concerned over the young woman’s tone, but chose not to address the issue. “Goodnight, dear. I’ll see you in the morning.” She glided gracefully to the top of the stairs and made her way down.

  Jade fumed on the way to her room. After removing her gown and accoutrements, she slid into a filmy deep-green nightgown and matching slippers and headed for the kitchen to get a Coke. At the top of the stairs she heard Maylene and Gage speaking and even knowing it was wrong, she sat down to eavesdrop.

  “I’ve gone through all the files here at the house and can’t find the deeds for the land in Florida. I think they may be at the homestead.”

  “If Ty had dealt with the paperwork from the beginning, this wouldn’t be an issue now. Why don’t you send him out to get the papers tomorrow?”

  “No, no. I’d love Jade to see the old place.”

  “I believe Jade had some sightseeing plans,” Gage said. “In fact, I promised I’d take her around.”

  “I’m sure she’d consider rescheduling once I explain the situation. There are so many photo albums and mementos I want to show her. Since you were planning to be off work anyway, you’ll be free to drive us. I trust you’ll be able to find the deed and get the paperwork straightened out so Ty can finish his business.”

  “Of course. I usually do cover Ty’s mess-ups.” Gage’s voice held disdain and Maylene didn’t miss it.

  “He’s still young, Gage. He’ll come around.”

  “He’s twenty-seven. Hardly a child.”

  “No. But he isn’t as mature as you were at that age. It will come to him. Could you please pass me a sliver of cake and top off my coffee?”

  The rattling of china met Jade’s ears and conversation ceased while they ate. She was intrigued by the idea of a homestead and wondered where it was located. Maylene’s voice carried upstairs once again. “Well, I’m going to turn in, Gage. What time will you be here tomorrow?”

  “Whenever you say.”

  “Will eight o’clock do? We’ve had a late night.”

  “Eight will be fine. Oh, before I forget, here are your diamonds.”

  “Thank you, dear. Jade mentioned you had them. Goodnight, now.”

  Jade stood and crept back to her room, certain Gage had gone. When she heard Maylene’s bedroom door close, she decided to go downstairs. Her mouth was parched. Probably from the wine she’d consumed. Jade tiptoed down the stairs and through the sitting room.

  She was surprised to find Gage putting the kitchen to rights. He turned just as she entered. “Jade?”

  “Oh, Gage, you startled me. I thought you’d gone.”

  “No. I’m still here.” His eyes drank her in and Jade suddenly felt very self-conscious. “Was there something you needed?” His words were suggestive as he took a step nearer.

  “My Coke.” Jade’s voice barely cleared her mouth. Her fingers clutched nervously at the thin fabric of her gown.

  “This?” Gage lifted the drink from the tray and moved closer but set the cup on the island instead of passing it to her.

  “Yes,” Jade whispered as Gage leaned over her, barely grazing her hair with his chin. She heard him inhale.

  “You smell so damn good.”

  “Is that bad?”

  “Oh, no! It’s not bad at all.” He lifted her chin and took her lips with his. Gentle at first, the kiss soon filled with longing.

  Jade’s tongue slipped out and tasted his lips. He immediately drew it deep into his mouth, twining his own with hers. He pulled her tight and she could feel the hard evidence of his arousal against her belly.

  Hunger rose inside Jade like a fire igniting and she raised one leg, wrapped it around his, pressed against him, and tumbled headfirst into lust. She’d never before been kissed with such intensity. Her body had never responded with such abandon.

  Time stood still as their passion mounted, raw and breathless. She moaned softly and he deepened the kiss.

  Abruptly, Gage pulled away, lowering Jade’s leg and straightening his jacket. His eyes burned with desire, but his voice was steady and cool. “I’m sorry. That shou
ld have never happened.” Without another word, he left the room.

  Jade stood lost, heart racing. Stunned. What had she done? Her fingers pressed softly against her mouth. The taste of him lingered on her lips and the ghost of his manly scent clung faintly to her skin. She heard the distant sound of the front door closing and knew he was gone. She braced herself against the counter and ran a shaky hand through her hair. The heat of their embrace was slow to fade. She grabbed her drink and took several long swallows. She didn’t know what amazed her more, his desire for her or her passion for him, especially considering the earlier animosity between them. But his kiss had been so delicious…

  She had to get a grip on these wild feelings.

  Once she composed herself, she realized it was good he had stopped. She wouldn’t be here long enough for a romance to make sense. Then, she remembered Maylene’s words. He’d be back at eight o’clock the next morning. How would she ever be able to face him after falling into his arms even though he’d treated her like a thief?

  Chapter 5

  When Gage picked them up, he was his usual calm and somewhat cynical self. It was as if the passion they’d shared the night before never happened. After a quick cup of coffee, he ushered Maylene to his car, Jade following along. Once they pulled from the driveway, he immediately launched into conversation with Maylene, not excluding Jade exactly, but sticking to topics about which she knew nothing. It was fine with her. She stared out the window at the scenery, deep in thought.

  It didn’t seem long before they rolled down a long tree-lined drive and pulled up next to what could only be described as a miniature plantation house. A wide brick pathway, planted either side with colorful flowers, led through the gate of a picket fence. The dwelling itself was a dazzling white, with gray shingles and a wide front porch. A small balcony nestled between columns on the second floor.

  “What a charming place,” Jade exclaimed. “I love it.”

  “I bet you do,” Gage murmured sardonically.

  Jade shot him a sharp look, but he gazed past her. “I was expecting something smaller, more on the lines of a cottage.”

  Maylene appeared not to have heard Gage’s snide comment. “This is where Jean Pierre and I began our married life,” she explained, as they reached the door. “My father wasn’t exactly thrilled with my choice of husbands; Jean Pierre came from ‘poor stock’, to use his phrase. But, like any southern gentleman, he wanted to look out for his little girl and his dowry was quite generous.”

  She unlocked and opened the door. “You know, honey, Jean Pierre and I spent our first fifteen years here. After that, we settled into the Esplanade house, and I’ve never regretted the move. But whenever I come out here I feel like I’ve stepped back in time. Everything is pretty much the same as it was the day we moved into town.”

  “It looks lived in,” Jade commented.

  “We have a couple who stay in the rear of the home and keep everything nice. It would never do for the house to appear empty; thieves would walk away with everything. A crew maintains the lawns and gardens. Of course, we lease out the surrounding land to a farmer.” Maylene paused and inhaled deeply, her face lighting up. After a sentimental moment, she turned to Jade. “Why don’t you have a look around while I direct Gage to the files he needs. I imagine Bonnie left us a pitcher of tea in the fridge, if you want to pour us each a glass.”

  “None for me, thanks,” Gage said, all business. “I just want to get this done.”

  Jade set her things down and wandered through rooms tastefully furnished with mostly antiques, but when she reached the kitchen she felt a smile lift the corners of her mouth. Obviously when Maylene said she’d changed nothing she hadn’t been referring to the kitchen. It was decked out in gleaming white appliances. Vertical shutters hung in the many windows, open to let in the sun. Copper-bottomed pots and pans hung overhead. The built-in cupboards were dark walnut. Granite countertops graced the lower bank of cabinets; a swan neck faucet stood waiting for use over a spotless stainless steel double sink. The marble floors were an elegant and practical choice, easy to keep clean.

  She couldn’t deny she’d expected the color scheme from another era: appliances in harvest gold, canisters decorated with orange and brown mushrooms, avocado-green linoleum underfoot, and maybe a set of wide-eyed ceramic owls hanging on the walls above the cabinets. In her mind’s eye she could see burnt orange curtains at the windows and a big clunky microwave dominating the countertop. The reality was so much nicer.

  The cupboard to the right of the sink held a set of heavy cut crystal glassware. Jade pulled out two, filled them with ice and tea, and exited the kitchen carrying one in each hand.

  She found Maylene in the parlor, digging picture albums and scrapbooks from a cedar chest. “Oh, good. You have our drinks.”

  They settled on the sofa and immersed themselves in old memorabilia and photographs. Jade used her scanner on quite a few old pictures.

  “Gracious sakes,” Maylene exclaimed, tenderly running her fingers over a photo. “Here’s Jean Pierre with Gage at the opening of our Lafayette restaurant. Oh, they both look so young. Gage is such a handsome lad, don’t you think?”

  Jade nodded. There was no denying the man’s dashing looks.

  Maylene smiled softly. “I’ve always thought the two could pass for father and son. Can you see it?” She gazed expectantly at Jade.

  “Mmm-hmm,” Jade murmured noncommittally. She actually saw few similarities between the men. Jean Pierre’s brown hair had been lighter than Gage’s. His build was slighter, his face narrower, features sharper. If Maylene saw a resemblance, it was because she wanted to. Perhaps her affection for Gage distorted her vision; Jade could understand that.

  Turning a page, Maylene tittered. “I’d forgotten all about this. It was taken at the beach. There’s Mama and Daddy at the water’s edge. Just look at those bathing suits they wore. How different things were back then, yet, the same in many ways. See those short slacks I’m wearing in this picture? They were called pedal pushers. Today we call them Capri pants, but they’re basically the same thing. Oh, and here’s a ticket stub from the first drive-in theater I ever went to. My grandmamma used to say they were no better than dens of iniquity, all those un-chaperoned couples alone in vehicles.”

  Turning a page, Maylene found a small yellowed envelope held in place by four black corners, the same style used to keep the pictures on the page. The woman’s hands shook as she carefully removed the envelope, opened it, and let its contents fall into her hand. On her palm lay a flaxen curl. “Here’s a lock of my hair, preserved after all this time. Oh, my goodness, this is over seventy years old. I used to be a blonde, you know.” She rubbed it gently between her fingertips and chuckled. “Baby hair is so soft.” With a sigh, she replaced it in the envelope and returned it to its place in the album.

  Jade loved the old photographs and souvenirs. They were marvelous windows into the past, spanning several generations. What she couldn’t scan, she shot with her digital camera and looked forward to uploading everything when she got back to town. On a pad of paper, she made meticulous notes of names, dates, and places. By the time Gage returned to tell them he’d found what he needed, she had amassed an enormous amount of information.

  He glanced at the grandfather clock in the corner. “If you ladies are finished here, we should get on the road.”

  “Oh, I’m afraid not, dear,” Maylene said. “We’ve had a marvelous time, Jade and I, but I need to put all these things away. I can’t leave them scattered about like this.”

  “Let me help you,” Jade offered.

  “Thank you, dear, but I have a particular way I like them stored.” She fixed Gage with a firm stare. “Besides, I’m absolutely worn out. You should show Jade the property, Gage. I’m sure she’ll find it interesting. Take her to see the old cabin. Once I’ve finished straightening up, I simply must lie down and rest for tonight.”

  “Tonight?” Gage frowned.

  “Oh, my
. Did I forget to mention that I’ve booked the three of us for the jazz cruise on the Natchez this evening?”

  “The Natchez?” Jade’s eyebrow arched.

  “The steamboat,” Gage informed her. He turned to Maylene. “The jazz cruise? You realize we’ll probably have to wait in line to redeem our tickets.”

  “Most likely, but it’ll be worth it.” Maylene smiled, looking supremely pleased with herself. “Now run along and have fun. Pick me up when you’re done; I’m sure I’ll be ready then. Really, you two should go out and enjoy the day.”

  Dread fell over Jade; she should have anticipated something like this. Maylene seemed determined to throw her and Gage together at every opportunity. “Wouldn’t it be better if I waited here and…”

  Gage’s smile was unreadable as he interrupted her. “Maylene, you’re right. Come on, Jade.” Before she could object, he was herding her toward the door. She barely had time to grab her purse and camera.

  Jade was dismayed. It looked like she’d be forced to endure Gage’s confusing presence the entire day. The last thing she wanted to do was deal with his hot and cold mood changes. She was annoyed as he hurried her to the car, but as soon as they took off, she changed her mind. Maylene deserved some privacy to indulge in her reminiscences. Jade shouldn’t insist on clinging to the woman. So, she’d go with Gage and try to ride the waves of his temperament. She’d thought after their fiery kiss the previous night that he had decided he trusted her. But then he’d made the snide comment when she’d admired the homestead. Yet he seemed to jump at the chance to be alone with her. He was the most confounding man she’d ever met. She had no idea what to expect from one minute to the next. She’d never have agreed to this little outing if it hadn’t been Maylene’s idea. Hopefully he’d remain even-keeled.

  “We’ll go out to the highway and I’ll take you around to the back side of the property. There’s more to see there, but the overland road is extremely rough, sometimes impassable.”

  She sat back and absorbed the scenery, all the while hoping Gage wasn’t escorting her to alligator feeding grounds deep in the bayou.