by L. A. Long
“You sure?”
“I’m sure.”
That earned her a smile and a kiss.
“Can we work for a while?” she asked once the dishes were loaded in the dishwasher.
“Of course, the baby will need a college fund.”
They settled in her office with the two carafes of coffee.
Lenore booted up the computer and asked, “So does Cass get Amanda pregnant with their unprotected sex? I noted the no-condom conundrum, but that didn’t stop him. I meant to ask where you were going with that before you took care of my need for release.”
He was watching her. “You’re so lovely when you blush.”
She felt her face flushing even more. “Must be the hormones.”
“No, darling, don’t think so. You are one of the few women I know who still blush. It’s very endearing and disarming. You could get a man in all kinds of trouble with that.”
“Yeah, look at all the trouble you’re in, daddy, husband, lover.”
They were both laughing.
“Back to Cass and Amanda, Finnegan. What did you have in mind?”
“Don’t know for sure. I thought we’d talk about it.”
“We could have her not be pregnant and one or both be disappointed. Conversely, she could be knocked up and one of them could be unhappy about it. I’d say Cass, based on his thoughts of dealing with consequences later. Or they be could like us and be happy about it or maybe get there in the end.”
“Should we let it play out for a while? Amanda’s never been pregnant and wouldn’t necessarily read the signs as clearly as you did.”
“You mean she’ll think she has the flu? I don’t want to do the flu. Everyone does that.”
“What about your symptoms?”
“Maybe, they’re less obvious. But that’s weeks away yet, in the book, I mean.”
“Yes. I know you want to work on the investigation as to who’s sabotaging the production.”
“I do… but I have something. Amanda is injured, not seriously, although the accident is meant to kill her. Cass insists on taking her to the hospital, and she refuses x-rays. He becomes angry with her, and she blurts out that she’s pregnant with equal anger.”
“Very good, Ms. Held.”
“Okay, now we need to get from here to there,” she said excitedly.
Chapter Thirty-Seven
“Where did the day go?” Lenore asked rhetorically as she fixed her hair and make-up in the master bathroom.
“We had a great day and got a lot done,” MP replied from behind her, kissing the side of her face.
“Yes, we did,” she agreed and gave him a fetching smile in the mirror.
“You should have taken a nap,” he said.
“Not when I’m on a roll. If the kids weren’t coming, I would still be working.”
“I don’t doubt that.”
“I should have made dinner.”
“No, we’ll go out. It’s fine. I called the Yardley Inn, and we’re set for 7:30. That will give us time for a drink and a get-acquainted chat. You can fuss with food tomorrow.”
“You’re right.”
“You describe yourself as difficult, but you always concede graciously,” he teased.
“I have no problem admitting when something makes sense. Continue to make sense, and I’ll continue to be gracious.”
“Duly noted,” he said, a dimpled grin crossing his face.
She finished dressing and studied her reflection. Her dress, a teal green, long-sleeved silk blend with a scooped neck and belted waist, made her look elegant and brought out the green in her eyes.
“You are a vision, Ms. Held, truly stunning—rich and intricate.”
“Thank you, Mr. Finnegan. You look very handsome yourself—every bit the scarlet I said you were.”
He was wearing a black cashmere blazer, black turtleneck, and gray wool slacks.
“I love the way your jacket feels,” she said, running her hand down his arm.
“And I love the way you feel.” He enveloped her in a hug. “You smell fantastic, too.”
She giggled, “You are so full of Irish blarney, I’m going to need waders to keep the bullshit off of me.”
“Charm, a chuisle, there is a difference.”
“The line must be a fine one to detect,” she laughed as she disengaged.
“I need to make sure towels and toiletries are in order,” she said, leaving the bedroom.
“I’ll help. Start showing me where things are so I can do my share.”
“Okay, but I don’t mind. We don’t make that much mess.”
“I don’t mind either. I need to earn my keep.”
She showed him where all the towels and linens were kept.
“Are they sharing a room?” Michael Patrick asked.
“Don’t know, don’t care. They can share or each have their own.”
“I suppose that’s only fair since we’re sleeping together.”
“Who says?” she asked.
“Would you prefer to sleep separately while your son is here?”
“I meant who says we’re sleeping?” she offered him a naughty grin.
“You are a bad influence on me, lass,” he grinned back. “But I think we’ll be sleeping at least a bit because this wee one is zapping you.” He gently touched her stomach.
“You have a point. They train you early and suck the life right out of you,” she laughed. “Let’s go down and put our feet up. They should be here soon.”
“There’s beer and white wine in the refrigerator and red on the counter,” she said as they descended the steps. “Cheese is already cubed, crackers need to be put on the platter.”
“Are you talking to me or yourself?”
“Mentally checking everything off. It helps if I say it out loud.”
“You nervous about the girlfriend?”
“A little.”
“A chuisle, it will be fine. Plus, she won’t be living with you, so even if you hate her guts, you’ll only have to deal with her for short periods of time.”
“MP!”
“That’s better. Color is in your face. I was having you on.”
“You’re terrible. I’m not sure I like you anymore.”
“Nah, you love me.”
“I do at that.”
He pulled her in for a kiss and the door flew open.
“Have to remember to lock the door,” MP whispered and she smiled.
“Caught in the act, Mom,” Nate said genially.
“Michael Patrick Finnegan, this is my son, Nathan Held. Nathan, Michael Patrick,” Lenore said, ignoring the color rising in her cheeks.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” they said at the same time. Everyone laughed.
The remainder of the introductions were completed.
“It’s wonderful to meet you, Ms. Held, and thank you for having me,” Kelly Hyde said nervously.
“Please call me Lenore, and I’m pleased to meet you as well.”
Kelly was a tall young woman with wavy blond hair, blue eyes, and a shapely, trim figure. Her nose was perfectly proportioned to her face, and she had a bow mouth. If she were a character in one of Lenore’s books, she would have described that mouth as made for pouting and kissing.
“Come on in, we’ll have a drink before we go to dinner. We’re going to the Yardley Inn. I hope you don’t mind.”
“No that’s great, Mom. I’m going to put our stuff upstairs,” Nate said, grabbing his and Kelly’s overnight bags.
“Kelly, would you like something to drink? Beer, red or white wine, juice, soda, water.”
The young woman was nervous. “Um, water would be great.”
“Still or sparkling?” Lenore asked.
“Still.”
“Lenore, sweetheart, go sit with Kelly; I’ll bring in the drinks.”
“Thanks, I’ll have an OJ.”
He smiled at her and winked.
The two women sat in the great room.
&nb
sp; “Your home is lovely Lenore. Thank you again for having me.”
“I’m delighted you were able to come. While you’re here, make yourself comfortable. If you’re hungry or thirsty, help yourself. If you need an extra blanket or towel, rummage for one.”
“That’s very kind.”
“Drinks ladies,” MP said with a megawatt smile.
He handed out their orders. He himself had a Sam Adams Winter Ale.
“I didn’t know what Nate would want,” he said.
“He’ll find what he wants. He’s used to helping himself.”
“I heard that,” Nate said, bounding into the room holding a Sam Adams as well.
Michael Patrick held up his bottle and said, “May your pockets be heavy—Your heart be light. And may good luck pursue you each morning and night. Cheers.”
“Cheers,” echoed his companions.
“How’s the book coming?” Nate asked as he sat down next to Kelly and wrapped an arm around her shoulder.
“Great,” MP said. “Your mother is the most amazing woman.”
“She is, isn’t she?” Nate winked at his mom.
Two winks in one night, Lenore thought, beaming back at Nathan.
They talked about the book and happenings at Georgetown. Kelly asked MP questions about Ireland.
“I’ve always wanted to go,” she said, “but haven’t made it there yet.”
“If Lenore and I go for a visit, you and Nate are more than welcome to join us.”
“Really?” The girl’s eyes got big and excited. “That’s very nice of you.”
Lenore reached over and took MP’s hand, smiling.
“Oh my, that is the most beautiful ring,” Kelly said as the light played off the diamonds and opals.
Lenore hadn’t even given a thought to the ring this afternoon or how they were going to break the news of their engagement. The ring had fit so perfectly, it was as if it had always been there.
“Nate, I gave your mum the ring. I’ve asked her to be my wife. I hope you’ll approve.”
Nathan gave MP, then his mom, an appraising look and asked his mother, “Does he make you happy, Mom?” Lenore smiled. “Yes, honey he does.”
“Do you love her, Michael Patrick?”
“More than anything.”
Playing the part of male head of the household, Nate crossed one leg over the other and said, “Then I give you my blessing, but if you make her unhappy you’ll have me to answer to.”
“Fair enough,” MP said and offered his hand to Nate, who instead clapped him on the back, then went to hug and kiss his mother. Kelly joined in, too.
Lenore smiled at her son and fiancé, tears brimming in her eyes.
MP handed her his handkerchief.
****
“That went extremely well,” Michael Patrick said when they finally made it to bed.
“It did,” she agreed. “Nate likes you. I told you there was nothing to worry about.”
“Ditto for Kelly and you.”
“She’s a little shy, but I like her.”
“It’s tough to compete with the three of us. Your son is like his mum, smart and quick-witted.” He nipped at her mouth.
“Why thank you. I think that’s a compliment.”
“It is, lass. Now come closer because it seems like forever since I’ve held you.”
“I was thinking the same thing.”
He helped her undress, and she did the same for him.
“Are you tired?”
“Not too tired, if that’s what you mean.”
“Hmm, I want to hold you for a little while first.” He pulled her to him and luxuriated in the feel of her. “I can’t ever remember feeling this wonderful, Lenore.”
She sighed and snuggled into him. “I kind of like it, too.”
“You okay with the baby and the marriage and all? I’ve invaded your life and your body, too.” He gently circled his hand on her belly.
“I’m a little frightened by the idea of a new life, especially all at once. I like order and logic, and this situation defies both. But it’s a new chapter, heck, a new book, and I’m eager to see where the plot leads. I want this mess with Maxwell over. I need to find time to talk with Nate, too. I don’t get the sense he’s told Kelly anything, but I don’t want her to think I’m talking about her to Nate and make her uncomfortable.”
“You’ll figure it out, Lenore. I think they make a fine young couple.”
“Me, too. She seems to hang on to his every word.”
“Ahh, young love.”
“Are you saying I don’t hang on to your every word?”
“Don’t want you to. But young people are often consumed by one another.”
“Excuse me? We’re not? I beg to differ.”
He laughed. “I think we are the exception to the rule.”
“Hmm, I don’t know about that. I only know about us.”
“Good. I’m the only one I want you to know about.”
“Ditto, for you. Now how about we make love before your child turns me into a pumpkin.” She kissed him and maneuvered on top of him.
“Sassy, aren’t we?”
“Oh, honey you’ve not seen the half of it.”
Chapter Thirty-Eight
“Lenore, a chuisle, I think your Nate might be up. I don’t think his girl is.”
“Kelly, his girl—am I your girl?”
“You bet.” MP smiled and kissed her.
“Incorrigible,” she scoffed and got out of bed, throwing her robe on.
“Kiss me before you go. I’m used to making love with you first thing in the morning.”
“Don’t start.” She kissed him, made her way to the bathroom, and hurriedly brushed her hair and teeth.
“I love you,” he whispered as she left the room.
It melted her heart. “I love you, too.”
Nate was indeed in the kitchen, making coffee.
“Hey, Mom, good morning.”
“Hey, yourself. I thought you’d sleep in.”
“I wanted to talk to you and knew you’d be up early to make my favorite breakfast.”
“You bet, chocolate, chocolate chip waffles.”
“Do you make them for your husband-to-be?” he asked in mock dismay.
“Nope, only for you,” she teased back.
“But seriously, Mom, he seems like a nice guy. I’m happy for you.”
“He’s wonderful. I think I must feel a little like Kelly does when she looks at you.”
He looked a little embarrassed. “I love her, Mom.”
“I’m happy for you. Both of you.”
“She’s going to come with me when I go to law school.”
“Will she go to grad school or work?”
“She’s hoping to teach elementary ed.”
“Terrific! She has a wonderful personality to work with children. She seems to be kind and patient and a good listener.”
Her son smiled, “You like her then?”
“Yes, very much.”
“I’m so glad. It means a lot to me.”
She stopped taking ingredients down from the cupboard and turned to hug him. “Honey if she were a troll with four eyes and had the personality of Hannibal Lecter, I wouldn’t care as long as she made you happy.”
Her son laughed. “Exaggeration?”
“Maybe, a little.”
They laughed and he popped several chocolate chips into his mouth.
“Has Jack decided what he’s going to do?” Lenore asked.
“No. But I’ve decided I don’t want to meet him.”
“Really?” Lenore was genuinely surprised.
“It’s a big risk. We look like twins, except for the eyes. I don’t want to be linked with the Maxwells. If anyone sees us together, someone will talk.”
“Nathan, someone might talk regardless. Conversations were taped in my house. Maxwell has them. Most likely someone else does, too. My kitchen and office were bugged.”
“Damn it.”
“My sentiments exactly. Maxwell was here talking about you and Jack in my office, and I told Michael Patrick about him in this kitchen. Stupid man should have never come to this house.”
“You wouldn’t have told MP about my father?”
“I don’t know. I don’t think so. Not until Byron came here and it became clear who he was did I even feel a need.”
“I haven’t told Kelly. Maybe I should if you think it will become public. I don’t want her stalked by media people and paparazzi.”
Lenore nodded her understanding.
He continued. “Part of my decision also rests with the fact that I’m not a very good match. I barely make ‘acceptable,’ and there is a good chance that my bone marrow will attack its host, in other words, Jack.”
“Graft versus host disease,” his mother said.
“Yes, and it can lead to death, especially in someone as weak as Jack. It won’t even be known how bad it is until about three months after the transplant takes place. Jack will be on medication to suppress his immune system to lessen the chance of GVHD, but it also makes him more susceptible to other illnesses. He could die before he even gets GVHD.”
“I know. I did some reading on it, too. But if he wants the transplant, you’ll go through with the procedure?”
“Yes, that’s another decision I’ve come to. It’s not my call whether he lives or dies. And if he’s given a second chance at a relatively normal life and squanders it, that’s his own fault.”
“And if he hurts others along the way?”
“I’m pretty sure all the chemo has killed his sperm, and if he had it frozen, the only woman he could get pregnant would be fully aware of the fact because it would be in vitro.”
There are other ways to hurt people, she thought, but Nate knew that.
“I respect whatever decision you make and will back you up.”
“Thanks, Mom. I knew you would.”
She poured the batter into the waffle iron.
“Want some coffee?” Nate asked.
“Sure,” she said, thinking she’d have to work on her decaffeination plan once they left. “You make good coffee.”
“Thanks. Any idea when or who would take this public?” Nate asked casually.
“The who is most likely Maxwell’s wife or someone hired by her who would leak the news. The when is unknown.” She told him about Morris’s meeting with Corrine.
