by Pamela Yaye
“It’s good to be home.” Ryan kissed his mom on the cheek. “Now, what’s for supper?”
Everyone laughed, and the tension in the air lifted.
“How is Jonah doing?” Sean asked.
Sadness filled Mrs. Parker’s eyes. “Doctors are with him now, but it doesn’t look good.”
“I owe you an apology, Sean,” Detective Fenton said, his tone contrite.
“That makes two of us.” Mr. Parker stood and joined his wife. “I’m sorry for ever doubting you, son, and I hope one day you can forgive me.”
Slowly nodding his head, Sean stepped forward and shook the hand his dad offered.
“We’ve never been close, but I’d like us to have a better relationship,” Kurt Parker said.
A grin lit Sean’s face. “I’d like that, too, old man.”
“So would I.”
Kim rose to her feet, crossed the room toward her family, and stopped in front of Sean. Tears pooled in her eyes and spilled down her face. “I know you hate me, but I miss you, and it would mean the world to me to have you at my wedding.”
“What are you talking about, silly? I could never hate you.” Sean cleaned the tears from her cheeks and pulled her into his open arms. “I was an ass, and I’m sorry.”
“You’re right. You were.” Kim laughed. “Apology accepted.”
Sean kissed her forehead. “I love you, sis.”
“And I love you more.”
“Hey! What’s up with that?” Ryan piped up, his hand over his heart as if he’d been mortally wounded. “I thought I was your favorite!”
Everyone in the room laughed, and Robyn wondered if anyone would be able to tame the aspiring musician with the bad-boy ways. Ryan was a jokester, and there was never a dull moment when he was around.
“Sean, you’d better treat Robyn like a queen or else you’ll have to answer to me,” Gabby said, pointing a thumb at her chest. “I’m serious. If you hurt her in any way, you’re dead meat.”
“Robyn?” Mr. and Mrs. Parker said in unison, sharing a puzzled look. “Can someone please tell us what’s going on? We’re lost.”
“Allow me.” Robyn stood, took her rightful place beside Sean and intertwined her fingers with his. His body stiffened, and his eyes widened in surprise. Robyn maintained her smile, didn’t let her disappointment show on her face. She wished things had been different, that she’d faced her fears head-on instead of pushing Sean away, but she was ready to prove her love, right here, right now. “Sean and I are a couple, and we’re getting married next year.”
“We are?” he asked, giving her a sideways glance, a frown wedged between his lips. “You told me you weren’t ready for a serious relationship, and I respect your decision.”
En masse, everyone slipped away, leaving them alone.
“I’m confused,” he confessed. “Last night you walked out on me, and now you’re talking marriage.”
Robyn faced him. “We can fix things, Sean, I know we can.”
“How, when we want different things?”
“I need you in my life, for the rest of my life, and I’ll do anything to make things right.”
“Why the sudden change of heart? What happened to bring this about?”
Her lips were painfully dry, and it hurt to swallow, but Robyn found the courage to answer his question. “I was running scared for years, but a wise old man taught me something today. Jonah made me realize how short life is, how precious it is, and I can’t live another minute without you. I’m ready to start a new chapter of my life, and the only man I want to love and live and laugh with is you.”
“For how long? A few weeks? A couple months? Until you find Mr. Right?”
“No, baby, forever. And make no doubt about it, you are Mr. Right.”
Silence fell between them, and Robyn feared all was lost.
“How do I know you won’t walk out on me again? Or push me away?
“Because you have my word.” Robyn hadn’t known she had it in her, but she spoke openly, without fear or restraint. She told Sean everything that was in her heart. “You asked me where I see myself in five years, but I was too scared to tell you the truth.”
“And the truth is?”
“I want to marry you and have kids and live in the suburbs.”
Sean wore an arch grin, and Robyn knew she was finally making progress with him.
“Anything else I should know?” he asked her.
“I promise to love you in good times and bad for as long as we both shall live.”
“Are you proposing to me, Ms. Henderson?”
“Yes, if that’s what it takes to prove my love. I need you in my life, Sean, and I won’t live without you.” Robyn took his hand, placed it on her chest and covered it with her own. “You have my heart, and that will never, ever change, not even when we’re old and gray.”
“Baby, I love the sound of that,” he whispered, brushing his nose against hers. “I love you, Robyn, and I can’t wait to make you my lawfully wedded wife.”
Giddy with excitement, she looped her arms around his neck and moved in for a kiss.
“Everyone’s watching us,” he whispered, gesturing into the hallway with a flick of his head. “And I’m pretty sure Gabby’s recording us on her cell phone.”
“That’s fine by me, because I want the whole world to know that you’re my man.” To prove it, Robyn pressed her body against his and kissed him passionately on the lips. His mouth was sweet and intoxicating, his caress thrilling, and his whispered promises made her heart overflow with love. They clung desperately to each other, like a couple lost at sea, and when Robyn heard muted applause from the hallway, she knew they had the support of their friends and family. Thanks, Jonah, she thought, snuggling against Sean’s chest. You were right. There is nothing worth more than love.
Chapter 16
“You’ve planned dozens of high-profile events over the years, but this charity gala takes the cake—literally,” Mrs. Parker gushed as she held up a forkful of a masterful raspberry torte. She tasted it, and her eyes went wide. Her voice was filled with awe when she continued, complimenting Robyn, “I don’t think I’ve ever attended a more lavish, elegant party, and I’ve been to state dinners at the White House!”
“I second that.” Mr. Parker nodded his head in agreement. “You went above and beyond your job description, and because of your remarkable efforts, dozens of guests have expressed interest in hosting similar events at the Belleza in the near future.”
Humbled by the couple’s praise, Robyn smiled her thanks. The entire Parker family except for Ryan, who was onstage, was seated around the table, enjoying cocktails, spirited conversation and the live music. The newlyweds, Kim and Jaxon, were whispering in each other’s ears, and Gabby was feeding Geoffrey hand-dipped chocolate truffles. Her girlfriends wowed in floor-length black gowns, and their men looked dapper in tailored Armani suits.
It had taken months of planning, and now that the Dunham Foundation gala was winding down, Robyn could finally breathe a sigh of relief. Glancing around the restaurant, she assessed the work her team had done. The Pearl had been transformed into a magical, enchanted space, one as unique as it was breathtaking. Round tables were outfitted with designer linens, sparkling china and potted candles that smelled of lemon blossoms, but it was the towering centerpieces, overflowing with ivory roses, hydrangeas and orchids, which gave the venue its ethereal feel.
“Can I interest you in something to drink? Perhaps an espresso or chamomile tea?”
Robyn smiled politely at the tuxedo-clad waiter but shook her head. Dinner had been a feast, an elaborate five-course meal full of flavor, and three hours later, guests were still raving about the scrumptious food. Politicians, business tycoons and A-list celebrities were in attendance, mingling, socializing and posing for pictures
. Ryan was performing a medley of Motown hits with his all-female band, and couples draped in jewels and Givenchy were heating things up on the dance floor.
At the table, Mrs. Parker was still gushing. “I still don’t know how you managed to pull this off, what with Sean’s grand opening, Kim’s wedding and visiting Jonah at the hospital, but let me be the first to say that this is the best charity gala the Belleza has ever had.”
“Thank you, Mrs. Parker, but I didn’t do this alone. It was a team effort, and everyone from the kitchen staff to the waiters and sound technicians played a part in making the night a success.” Robyn winked at her future in-laws. “Your seven-figure donation didn’t hurt, either.”
At the conclusion of the program, as guests were enjoying their dessert, Mr. and Mrs. Parker had taken to the stage and graciously thanked everyone for supporting the Dunham Foundation. Shocking everyone in attendance, the couple had pledged a million dollars to the cause and promised to work side by side with the foundation to help impoverished families in their beloved state. Two million dollars had been raised in less than three hours, making the charity gala the most successful event in the Belleza history.
“I agree with Mom,” Sean added. “You did an amazing job at Jaxon and Kim’s wedding last Saturday, but you really outdid yourself tonight.” Draping an arm around her shoulders, he leaned over and kissed Robyn on the cheek. “See, Mom, you got your wish after all. I’m marrying a smart, successful woman just like you.”
His words made Robyn grin from ear to ear. Every time she thought of marrying Sean, her heart swelled with joy. This time next year, I’ll be Mrs. Sean Parker. How awesome is that?
Her thoughts returned to Labor Day, to the exact moment her life had changed forever. On the morning of the grand opening of the SP Grill, Robyn had woken up to breakfast in bed and a romantic, heartfelt proposal. It was a sweet, intimate moment, and for as long as she lived, she’d never forget how special Sean had made her feel. And when he’d dropped to one knee and slipped the emerald-cut diamond on her ring finger, she’d kissed him with all the passion and heat she felt for him.
After making love, they’d driven to Palm Springs and shared the happy news with her mother. It was there, while celebrating over appetizers and champagne, that her dad had called. Robyn had been stunned to discover Sean had flown to New York days earlier and met with her dad at his Manhattan apartment. The two men had talked for hours, and at the end of their conversation, Sean had asked for her hand in marriage. In that phone call to Robyn, her dad had apologized for being an absentee father, and since that afternoon, they’d talked several times. Robyn didn’t know if they’d ever be close or if they’d have the father-daughter relationship she’d always dreamed of, but it was a start. She choked up every time she thought about what Sean had done for her, and thanked her lucky stars that they’d reconciled and were now engaged.
“Sean, I couldn’t agree more. I’m thrilled that you guys are a couple, but don’t prolong your engagement,” Mrs. Parker advised, her tone matter-of-fact. “I’m ready for grandbabies, and you’re my only hope, so hurry up and tie the knot already.”
“Your only hope?” Sean repeated. “What about Kim and Jaxon?”
“Kim said they’re not ready to start a family, and since Ryan would rather sow his wild oats than settle down, I’m depending on you.”
“One sweet, adorable grandchild coming right up, Mom!”
Robyn burst out laughing. They were planning a small, intimate wedding at The Pearl on Valentine’s Day, but Robyn was so anxious to become Mrs. Sean Parker she was considering bumping up the date.
“I saw the review for the SP Grill in the LA Times this morning. Congrats, man.” Geoffrey raised his champagne glass to Sean in salute. “Your restaurant’s only been open a few weeks, but it’s already the toast of the town. Need another investor?”
“Have your people call my people,” Sean said with a chuckle. “I can’t take any of the credit. Robyn’s brilliant ideas and Ryan’s outstanding performance helped make the grand opening a success. That’s why I hired them both to work for me on a permanent basis.”
The light in Kim’s eyes faded, but she was grinning. “You don’t have to rub it in, Sean.”
Robyn wore a half smile as she listened to her fiancé and her best friend argue over her. She was going to miss working at the resort full-time, but she was excited about helping Sean run the SP Grill. They made a great team, and she loved working side by side with him. Her happiest moments were laughing and joking around with him in the kitchen, and Robyn was looking forward to the next chapter of their lives.
The moment Robyn heard the opening verse of “I’m Every Woman,” she jumped up, dragged Kim and Gabby to their feet and led them through the crowd. Finding a spot at the foot of the stage, they danced, giggled and sang off-key.
Watching her girlfriends cut loose on the dance floor, Robyn marveled at how much their lives had changed over the summer. Kim and Jaxon had married last Saturday in a lavish ceremony attended by three hundred friends and family members and were leaving on their honeymoon tomorrow morning, and Gabby was so blissfully in love with Geoffrey she talked about him nonstop. Recently, she’d joked about them eloping in Bermuda during the Christmas holidays, and Robyn wouldn’t be surprised if they did.
Twirling around, she spotted her fiancé a few feet behind her and danced into his arms. Sean looked handsome in his crisp white tuxedo, every bit as sexy as the Hollywood stars milling around the room.
“You’re the most beautiful woman in here.”
A girlish smile overwhelmed her mouth. To please him, she’d worn the strapless purple gown he’d bought her while shopping in Venice Beach weeks earlier, and feeling his hands along the soft satin material made her body flush with heat. He splayed kisses on her cheeks and neck, stroked her shoulders and hips, arousing her flesh. They swayed to the beat of the music, moved their bodies sensuously against each other. They danced to song after song, flirted and laughed like teenagers at a high school dance. The air was charged with sexual tension, and thoughts of making love consumed her mind till she could no longer take the sweet torture.
“Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” Sean asked, tickling her ear with the tip of his tongue. “Because if you are, I know the perfect place for a quickie.”
“I thought you’d never ask,” she quipped, her words a breathless pant. “Let’s go!”
Sean took Robyn’s hand, but before they could flee The Pearl, Kim grabbed his arm and led them outside. The breeze was warm, perfumed with a floral fragrance, and the sky was awash with hundreds of twinkling stars. Ryan’s silky, smooth voice flowed through the doors, creating a romantic mood. They sat down at a candlelit table with Jaxon and Gabby and Geoffrey, and as they chatted about the highlights of the evening, Robyn’s thoughts turned to everyone’s favorite bartender.
“I wish Jonah was here,” she said with a sad smile. “He would’ve loved rubbing elbows with all of the Hollywood big shots tonight.”
Gabby laughed. “You’re right. He probably would have pitched his story about the Belleza treasure to every producer in there.”
“The Belleza curse may not have been a real thing,” Robyn said, “but the Belleza treasure sure was.”
“It was?” Geoffrey cocked an eyebrow. “You’re pulling my leg. Right, Robyn?”
Robyn glanced at Kim, and when she gave a nod of consent, she decided to tell Jaxon and Geoffrey what Jonah had whispered in her ear the day he thought he was dying. Thankfully, he’d survived the accident, but he would remain in the hospital until he recovered from his injuries. The doctors couldn’t explain his sudden improvement, except to say he had a strong will to live. Everyone was taking turns visiting Jonah at the hospital, and he was in good spirits.
“Of course she’s pulling your leg,” Jaxon said. “The Belleza treasure is a myth.”
“The treasure turned out to be an 18-carat blue diamond, and it wasn’t actually on the property of the resort, but it was buried not too far from here,” she began, not surprised by the bewildered expressions on their faces. The day of Trina’s arrest, Robyn had told Kim and Gabby the truth about the treasure and had explained everything to Sean the morning he’d proposed, but it still blew her mind that Jonah—everyone’s favorite bartender—was a multimillionaire.
“An 18-carat blue diamond?” Geoffrey leaned forward in his chair. “Go on, Robyn. I’m listening.”
“Jonah’s had the diamond stashed since the 1950s, but he never talked about it because it caused the breakup with his one true love. He wanted to keep the ring as a family heirloom to one day pass on to his children, but his wife wanted to sell it and live a life of luxury. They couldn’t agree, and after years of arguing they decided to go their separate ways.”
“That’s sad. It’s too bad Jonah couldn’t have his wife, and the treasure,” Jaxon said, his eyes filled with pity. “How did you know where to find the treasure, Robyn?”
“Jonah told me where to find it after he passed away and asked me to split the money three ways with Kim and Gabby. When he recovered, he still wanted us to have it.”
Geoffrey’s jaw dropped.
“I didn’t believe the story, either, when Robyn first told me,” Sean said, smiling sympathetically at his friend and brother-in-law. “But every word of it is true. I saw the diamond myself, and it’s a thing of beauty.”
Kim added, “I remember my grandpa Don telling me stories of the Belleza treasure when I was a kid. I always assumed they were fairy tales, but perhaps he knew more than he let on.”
Jaxon shook his head. “I never would have guessed that Jonah was rich. He lives such a simple, modest life.”
“Not anymore,” Gabby said proudly. “We bought him one of the luxury staff condos and insisted he keep half the money so he could live comfortably. Kim forced him to retire, but I suspect he’ll be sneaking into the Belleza to mix drinks at the bar when we’re not looking.”
