Lean on Me (ARC)

by Pat Simmons

  Marcus tried, but he couldn’t convince her to rethink her decision. By the time Tabitha made it to her first appointment and parked, they whispered their love again, and this time, she allowed it to melt her heart.

  * * *

  For the next couple of days, it was tempting not to count down the months and weeks until Rachel took over the reins of Aunt Tweet’s care. As the Fourth of July holiday approached, Tabitha was grateful that Marcus didn’t pressure her to join him for the company barbecue. She had no choice but to put a self-imposed ban on visiting his job. Her aunt might not remember the skirmish, but she was sure the children would.

  At least she could look forward to her sisters coming to town and celebrating the holiday together.

  “I decided to wait and come next weekend. That way we can celebrate Aunt Tweet’s eighty-fifth birthday,” Kym said during the sisters’ weekly Skype call.

  “Personally, I really wanted to come for the Fourth, but I’d rather wait until all of us are together,” Rachel added.

  They had no idea how badly Tabitha needed their company. Masking her frustration, Tabitha smiled, then chatted a few more minutes before signing off.

  No matter where the Knicely sisters were close-knit, they had always met at their parents’ home—hers now—for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and as many holidays as possible. The summer holidays were the best when the sisters took trips together, despite living in different cities. Growing up, Tabitha’s heart ached for her friends who didn’t have siblings to enjoy things with.

  Without Marcus or her sisters for a distraction, it was business as usual when she woke on July 4. After checking on Aunt Tweet, who was still in her bedroom, Tabitha returned to her room to say her morning prayers. She showered quickly and checked on her aunt again. Everything was calm. Next, she grabbed her Bible and prayed for direction, opening to a random scripture: Philippians 4:6–7. “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

  “God, I need Your peace,” she whispered as she reread the verses and took a moment to meditate on them. When Aunt Tweet stirred, Tabitha helped her freshen up and dress. Once they were downstairs, Sweet Pepper yelped for attention, so they prepared for a leisurely stroll. As Tabitha inhaled the aroma of barbecue in the air, she mused. So what if it was only the two of them for the holiday? It was going to be a good day anyway.

  Not long after that back at the house, Tabitha was drying her hands when her bell rang. She opened the door and a courier greeted her, holding two bouquets. She smiled.

  Aunt Tweet’s eyes lit up when Tabitha returned to the kitchen with the bold, bright-colored flowers. “That from Papa?”

  Her aunt had called Marcus “mister” a time or two, but “Papa”? Her dementia symptoms seemed to be worsening. Tabitha nodded, then arranged the bouquet in water.

  “I see you’re really into the holiday spirit. The red, white, and blue arrangements are beautiful,” Tabitha said when she called to thank him.

  “And so are you. See you later on, babe.”

  “I look forward to it.” After ending the call, Tabitha seasoned her chicken and hamburgers for the grill. Like old times, she and Aunt Tweet worked side by side, preparing potatoes for the potato salad. It didn’t go unnoticed that her aunt had left a lot of the skin on some of the potatoes.

  When they stepped outside, the humidity had kicked in, so Tabitha retrieved Popsicles from the freezer. Listening to the squeals and laughter from the neighborhood children and the occasional firecrackers that someone couldn’t wait to set off, Tabitha knew it wouldn’t be long until the heat was unbearable.

  By the time the meat was cooked, her aunt had finished a third Popsicle. Suddenly, Aunt Tweet began to hum one of the church songs they’d heard.

  Without realizing it, Tabitha herself joined in singing, “I love you, Jesus…” When her aunt sang the last note, she closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep, and Tabitha watched peace descend on her aunt.

  Going inside for a platter, Tabitha returned and removed the meat, then urged her aunt inside to lie on the sofa. For the first time in a long time, her work didn’t consume her day and she enjoyed her own downtime. She sat in the recliner then grabbed her phone when a text chimed.

  Love you. Miss you. Crazy about you. Can’t wait to see you. Open your door.

  “What?” She slowly got to her feet and followed Marcus’s instructions, expecting more flowers, but outside her door was the best gift. Tabitha fell into his arms. Marcus brushed a kiss on her head, squeezed her tight, and literally lifted her off her feet and crossed the threshold. She giggled at his playfulness as he closed the door.

  “Not that I’m complaining, because I’m not, but I didn’t expect you until later this evening. I don’t want to take you away from the time you spend with your employees. I know it’s a tradition you and your brother started.” She didn’t want to be selfish and demanding.

  “Couldn’t stay away from my girlfriend.” He gave her a slow grin. There was something about the way he said girlfriend, as if the word was created for her.

  Linking their hands together, they walked to the kitchen, and he sniffed. “Hmm. Your barbecue smells better than ours. What’s on the menu?” He craned his neck to peek into her family room. “Where’s Aunt Tweet?”

  “Napping,” she said, pointing to the sofa instead of her aunt’s favorite chair. She shook her head when she spied her aunt open one eye, then close it just as fast. Deciding to play along, Tabitha walked closer and gently nudged her awake. “Look who’s here.”

  “There’s my friend.” Marcus made a big production of giving her a kiss on her cheek and complimenting her earrings.

  Tabitha admired his loving nature. Even Sweet Pepper wagged his tail for attention and Marcus didn’t disappoint.

  “I guess we all want a piece of you,” she whispered to herself.

  As if the wind had carried Tabitha’s words to his ears, he stopped and glanced over his shoulder, meeting her eyes. He came back to her. “You, Miss Knicely, have all of me.” After washing his hands, he asked if she needed help.

  “It’s early, but the food is ready, if you want to eat.”

  “Woman, it’s a holiday. There is no set time to eat, and I’m starved.” He patted his stomach.

  “I’m ready to eat supper,” Aunt Tweet said, seconding the sentiment.

  “What about eating outside on the patio?” Marcus nodded toward the door.

  “I think it may be too warm. Let’s stay in until the sun goes down and it cools off some,” Tabitha advised.

  “Good choice, my girlfriend.” He grinned wide.

  It was such a juvenile term, but Tabitha loved hearing him say it. Marcus set the kitchen table and gave thanks for their food. As they ate, Aunt Tweet conjured up tales, causing Tabitha to wonder if they were true or not.

  Once they finished, Tabitha snuggled next to Marcus as they watched game shows with Aunt Tweet. A couple of times, her aunt became frustrated with the host’s questions. Tabitha tried to rephrase the question so Aunt Tweet could understand, to no avail. When her aunt lost interest, they turned off the television and enjoyed gospel tunes Marcus had downloaded on his phone. The music inspired Aunt Tweet to hum along until she dozed off with Sweet Pepper on her lap.

  Too soon, the dog stirred and whined to go outdoors. The short trot around the block seemed exhausting for her aunt and Sweet Pepper; they collapsed in the patio lounger when they returned to watch fireworks from neighbors far and near. Tabitha and Marcus claimed the double-seated rocker. Facing her, he tugged at a strand of her hair and twirled it around his finger. “So, baby, did I tell you I missed you?”

  “Yes.” She giggled. “And I missed you too, like crazy.” Everything se
emed all right in her world when he was around. Their lips were about to touch when a big boom exploded nearby. She jumped, laughing.

  Startled, Aunt Tweet stood, disoriented. “What was that?”

  Sweet Pepper barked.

  Tabitha pointed to the sky. “See the beautiful colors?”

  Her aunt jumped at every boom until she finally made a dash for the door. Sweet Pepper got in the way, and Aunt Tweet began to tumble to the ground. Marcus steadied her, to Tabitha’s relief. He had saved them a trip to the ER and an explanation to her sisters about injuries.

  Chapter 26

  A week later, Tabitha relished the hugs. “I missed you two during the holiday,” she said at the airport to get Kym and Rachel.

  “We’re here now.” Kym smiled and looped an arm through Tabitha’s while Rachel held on to Aunt Tweet.

  “Let’s celebrate!” Rachel said.

  Later that day, Marcus came to the house for Aunt Tweet’s festive birthday mini bash. His brother was with him. Tabitha had a sneaking suspicion Demetrius was there for Rachel and the small party was a cover-up. Thanks to the low humidity, they took the festivities outside. After a while of casual banter, Tabitha cut the cake. The honoree was served first to Aunt Tweet’s delight, then Kym suggested a family meeting inside.

  “Do you mind entertaining Aunt Tweet?” Tabitha could see the love in Marcus’s eyes.

  “Babe, you don’t have to ask.” He reached for her hand and kissed it.

  I love you, she mouthed and couldn’t stop the blush from spreading as she walked into the house with her sisters.

  “Hmm.” Rachel teased. “Instead of a family meeting, maybe we should talk about you and Marcus. Things have really heated up since we were here last time.”

  Tabitha beamed. “Yes, they have.”

  Kym smiled. “Okay. First things first. Give us an update on Aunt Tweet, then on Mr. Whittington.”

  “I’ve had a few meltdowns.” She ignored her sisters’ shocked expressions. “Ava Elise, my former trainer and now friend, was a caregiver once and suggested I try a nurse’s aide to come and watch Aunt Tweet, since her dementia symptoms are advancing. Marcus and I decided, instead of a nurse’s aide, an activity might be better—”

  “Hold up. You and Marcus? What does he have to do with our aunt’s care?” Kym interrupted.

  Tabitha didn’t like her sister’s tone and told her, “He happens to care about me—us—and he’s my backup.” She lifted a brow. “Anyway, he thought it would be a good idea for Aunt Tweet to interact with the children at his day care during story time.”

  “Go on.” Folding her arms, Kym leaned back in the chair and crossed her legs.

  “Things were going well until she and Kenny started to tussle over his toy truck. She put his toy in her purse and wouldn’t give it back.” She didn’t want to relive that scene. “We haven’t gone back since. Actually,” she said, gritting her teeth, “I have been too embarrassed.”

  Kym grunted. “I can’t even imagine that behavior coming from Aunt Tweet.”

  “Trust me, it wasn’t a pretty picture. Next, Marcus and I decided—”

  “Don’t get me wrong. I like the man. However, all the Knicely sisters need to be involved in decisions involving our aunt.”

  Leaning forward, Tabitha gave them a pointed glare. “Then I suggest you both pack your bags and move back here.”

  “Me?” Rachel placed a manicured finger on her chest. “What did I say?”

  “Nothing.” Her mouth twisted in annoyance. “You need to join in on this discussion, especially when Kym and I aren’t exactly seeing eye to eye.”

  “Okay. I agree with big sis on this one. We need to know what’s going on. If Marcus is helping, I don’t see a problem. I don’t know how I’m going to have to tweak my game plan when Aunt Tweet comes home with me after Thanksgiving.”

  “You mean at the end of October,” Tabitha corrected Rachel.

  “Are you sure you’re not stressed out about the job? It was your idea to change jobs, and surely there has to be another medicine that can help with Aunt Tweet’s symptoms,” Kym said.

  “We’ve been through this. The ones that would slow down the dementia symptoms have some severe reactions that I’m—no, we—aren’t comfortable taking a chance with. My experience with Aunt Tweet is totally different from yours. Rachel’s may be different too. What I’m saying is for me, being a caregiver has been stressful. I have moments when I’m fine, then something happens, and I want to hide from reality. Your visits give me the respite I need…to recharge, to enjoy ice cream, a deep hair conditioner, a foot massage…”

  Kym waved her hand in the air. “Girl, no problem. We can all go to the spa together.”

  “No!” Tabitha blurted out. “I need some me moments.”

  Kym stood and raised her voice. “You say things are going on with Aunt Tweet, but I see the changes in you. We came to be together and celebrate. If she’s getting in the way of your budding relationship, say it, and I’ll take my dear aunt home with me right now!”

  Yes, Tabitha wanted to spend more time with Marcus, but not at the expense of deserting Aunt Tweet, who she loved more than anything. Something within her snapped. Even though she knew in her heart it would be better to hold her peace, she unleashed her pent-up emotions. “You know what? You can leave, but my aunt will stay with me until Rachel takes over.”

  * * *

  “It’s not sounding pretty in there,” Demetrius said as they overheard loud voices coming from inside. “Your name has come up at least twice.” He raised two fingers.

  Marcus squinted through the glass door, then he squeezed his lips together in frustration. “I know, and I don’t like it.”

  Maybe it was a good thing Demetrius had invited himself along; he and Rachel had been talking off and on, and at the moment, he was glad for his brother’s presence.

  Rubbing his forehead, Marcus debated whether he should intervene. He had seen firsthand how stressful being a caregiver was for Tabitha, but he also saw her love and commitment.

  He glanced at Aunt Tweet, wondering if she was clueless about being the object of the sisters’ heated discussion. When the shouting started, he and Demetrius scrambled to their feet.

  Aunt Tweet was still relaxing with the puppy on her chest, so he left her there and entered the house. He had never seen his little woman so upset. Coming up behind her, he snaked his arm around her waist to drag her away from the shouting match before it turned into a shoving match.

  He glanced over his shoulder to check on Aunt Tweet. She hadn’t moved. He faced Tabitha. “Hey, babe, hey.” He searched her eyes until they focused on him. “What’s going on?” As her tears spilled, he wiped them with his thumbs as fast as he could.

  “Since you and my sister seem to have it under control, I’m leaving,” Kym spat at him before spinning around and hurrying upstairs to pack.

  He groaned. It was worse than he thought. When was the last time he and Demetrius had an argument that ended with hurt feelings this bad? They had to have been teenagers. Their dad drilled into his sons to resolve their issues by cooling off, then talking the problem through. Apparently, sister bonds were more easily broken.

  With a hand curled into a fist, Rachel marched toward Tabitha, and Marcus nudged her out of harm’s way. No punches would be thrown today and land on his woman.

  The polished, sophisticated diva was gone. “Move out of the way, Marcus. This discussion doesn’t concern you,” Rachel threatened.

  “The discussion doesn’t, but Tabitha does. Will you ladies please calm down?”

  Rachel ignored him and raised her voice. “What is wrong with you? Kym is our big sister. We’re supposed to be in agreement about Aunt Tweet’s care, not fighting. You are so selfish!” A tear fell as she spun around and trailed Kym upstairs.

  “Oh boy.” Marcus bli
nked. Selfish? His woman was far from it. His heart broke, knowing the arrows her sisters had aimed had hit their target.

  Tabitha turned in the other direction and stormed outside to the patio to join Aunt Tweet.

  He wanted to go to her and be her hero, but Demetrius stopped him. “You can’t fight this battle. They’re going to have to work it out, Bro.”

  How was he supposed to stand on the sidelines while Tabitha was hurting? Marcus wanted to ask, but he doubted his brother could answer.

  Chapter 27

  “Mom, I love Tabitha, and I’m worried about her. It’s been almost two weeks since she and her sisters have spoken. Plus, she’s lost a little weight, despite my efforts to get her to eat more,” Marcus confided over the phone when Demetrius was away from his desk. “Even Aunt Tweet seems subdued.”

  “Poor girl.” Sylvia Whittington tsked. “I would think the three of them would be on the same page about something as important as their great-aunt. Anything I can do?”

  “From North Carolina? Pray. Hopefully, when you and Dad come next month, their disagreement will be resolved, but I think you’ll like her.”

  “I’m sure it will. Maybe she needs a little motherly love. I have more than enough to give.” His mother’s cheerfulness came through.

  After a couple more minutes, he ended their call with “Love you, Mom.”

  He wouldn’t trade his parents for anything in the world. Marcus prayed that if he and Demetrius ever had to be caregivers, they would be able to work together as a team, like they did in their business. There was a knock on his door, and Latrice peeped inside. “Do you have a few minutes?”

  Marcus exhaled. He hoped she didn’t have another crisis again so soon. He motioned for her to have a seat in front of his desk.

  She did, then swallowed. “Mr. Whittington, why didn’t you tell me Victor paid you back his bail money?” she asked softly.

  He tapped a pen on his desk. “It wasn’t my place.” Gauging her reaction, he asked, “Are you okay?”