by Pat Simmons
Leaning over the table, she saved her work and shut down her computer. “Although I enjoy my job, these last-minute requests aren’t fun. I hope it pays off. I used to tuck away my bonuses, so I could travel with my sisters.”
Marcus gathered their empty bags and threw them in the trash receptacle. “I would like to think I’ll be a better travel companion than your sisters.”
She gave him a strange look. No need to show his hand yet, but the next trip she planned would be with him, a ring on her finger and a marriage certificate signed.
Chapter 32
The following week, Marcus’s excitement amused Tabitha as he glanced around the massive auditorium filled with balloons and the occasional floral bouquets. They were among thousands of family and friends gathered to witness the graduation ceremony.
The Chaifetz Arena on Saint Louis University’s campus had played host to the school’s home sports games and sold-out concerts like Beyoncé—even the U.S. Olympics tryouts that gymnast Simone Biles took part in before she became a gold medalist were held on the site.
When Tabitha scanned the program and noted that all four Saint Louis community college campuses were participating in the graduation, she braced for a long night.
Marcus had invited her and Aunt Tweet to the Friday evening commencement services the same day he took his parents to the airport for their return flight to North Carolina. Tabitha wasn’t sure if she would get home from work in time, but she did and even managed to shower and change out of her suit and into something dressy but casual. Glancing around the auditorium, Tabitha was glad she hadn’t dragged her aunt to this event. Lately, Aunt Tweet had seemed more exhausted after her days at Bermuda Place. She was eighty-five years old, so it was a no-brainer that she should rest and have Miss Betty keep watch.
Eyeing Marcus again, Tabitha chuckled to herself. Would he be this antsy at his children’s grade school, high school, and college graduations? His exhilaration over the accomplishments of one of his employees was contagious.
“That’s her.” Marcus pointed to the name Latrice Germaine Allen listed among hundreds of others receiving their nurse assistant certifications.
Her mind drifted to the day she, Kym, and Rachel had graduated with honors from Purdue, Temple, and Fisk Universities, respectively. Aunt Tweet had joined their parents in attendance. “You’ve earned this accomplishment that can never be taken away,” their aunt had said to them. “Knowledge.”
Once the ceremony started, his eyes sparkled as the class receiving the nurse assistant certificates stood. Marcus’s energy was tangible as the dean of the school drew closer to calling his employee’s name.
“Latrice Germaine Allen.” The young woman’s smile was bright as she strolled across the stage.
Jumping to his feet, Marcus released a piercing whistle that seemed to echo throughout the arena. Next, he fumbled with his phone to take pictures until Latrice had exited the stage. Reluctantly, he took his seat when his employee’s moment to shine was replaced by the next graduate’s. Looking at Tabitha, he exhaled. “This is going on our employee brag board.” He pointed to the picture on his phone.
“You okay?” She had never seen him so discombobulated. “You told me a little about her ex-boyfriend and children, but you’re reacting to her differently from at the barbecue. Then, it seemed like she irritated you, but I can sense the adoration you have for her. I can see it in your eyes. I’m glad God turned your relationship with her around.”
He shrugged. “I like to see people succeed, especially single mothers who are often negatively stereotyped.” He paused. “Honestly, I had put a lot of faith in her ex-boyfriend taking the lead.”
Slipping her arm through his, she rested her head on his shoulder. “Remember Pastor Nelson’s sermon from last week. ‘Putting our faith in God will never disappoint us. Imperfect people are known to fail us.’”
Marcus bobbed his head, turned, and met her eyes. “You’re right. Thank you for reminding me, my girlfriend.”
The ceremony ended sooner than Tabitha had expected. With her hand secured in Marcus’s, they weaved through the crowd to find Latrice, who was taking pictures with friends and family. Her face glowed with happiness when she saw Marcus.
“Mr. Whittington, you came!” After a brief hug, she stepped back. “Thank you for believing in me.”
“You’re welcome.” Marcus turned and made the introductions. “This beautiful lady is my girlfriend.”
“We met at the company barbecue,” Latrice reminded him, and they shared a knowing chuckle.
“Congratulations.” Tabitha extended her hand, but the young lady hugged her too.
“Thank you for sharing him with me—us. I’ll always remember to pay it forward, to give other second chances,” Latrice assured her.
“Does that include me?” A deep voice made everyone turn around. The handsome man was rough around the edges, judging from his sloppy clothes. He clutched an amazing, colorful bouquet.
Two little boys raced his way, shouting, “Daddy! Daddy!”
“That’s Victor,” Marcus whispered in her ear.
Tabitha had figured as much, knowing the good, bad, ugly, and recycled versions of the man.
“Congratulations, Latrice Germaine Allen. I see now that I was never good enough for you.” He handed her the flowers, then heaved both boys into his arms with no effort.
The buzz around them hushed as bystanders seemed eager for her response. Latrice said nothing.
“I’m sorry I’ve disappointed you and my sons and never been man enough to earn your love and respect.” He paused, glanced away, then faced her again. “I’m learning from my mistakes, and one day, I will walk across a stage with some type of accomplishment. You’ll see. You might not want me in your life, but I hope to be in my sons’ lives.”
His heartfelt confession touched Tabitha.
“Then I’ll pray that day comes soon because I love you, and if you can accept God’s love and salvation, everything will change between us.” Latrice stepped closer and wrapped an arm around Victor’s neck, then gave him a brief but passionate kiss. “For my heart’s sake and our boys’, I’ll wait from afar. Word to the wise: don’t let another man take your place in our lives. Victor, the ball is in your court.”
Whoa. High five, girl. Tabitha had to give the woman credit. Latrice loved him but was standing her ground.
“I’ll work on me.” He bobbed his head as he backed away, then rubbed the top of his sons’ heads. “I’ll let you celebrate this big day with your family and friends,” he choked out, clearly hoping for an invitation.
“Thank you” was all Latrice said.
Victor walked away. His broad shoulders were slumped, seemingly weighed down with a heavy burden. Tabitha turned to Marcus. “What do you think? Please tell me that you believe in a happy ending for them.” She was hopeful.
“It’s hard to call. Both are determined to do what they think is best. Only God knows.”
Moments later, Marcus gave Latrice a card, which probably contained money, and shook hands with her family, introducing Tabitha as his girlfriend, the way he said it always making her blush. Soon, they left the crowd to enjoy a quiet dinner at the Kitchen Sink restaurant.
Once they received their meals, Marcus gave thanks for their food. There was always something comforting about the way he prayed. His voice was deep and strong, but his reverence for the Lord was unmistakably in awe. After they whispered “Amen,” she stole one of his fries, dabbed it in his ketchup, and grinned in victory.
“I only let my girlfriend do that.” He winked.
“Lucky me—no, I’m blessed.” They teased, joked, and whispered their love until Tabitha checked the time. “We’d better head home. My sisters are flying in early in the morning, so we can be together for the long Labor Day weekend.”
Wrinkles etched his forehead. “Y
ou sure everything’s okay? I won’t have you getting upset again.” His mouth twitched, possibly indicating that he would be her bodyguard if he felt she needed one.
“Hey.” She rubbed his arm and could feel his muscles flex. “We’ll be fine. I won’t need your private security detail.”
Marcus patted his chest. “I’ll be on standby to be on the safe side.” He signaled to their waiter for the check. “I’m your caregiver, and I care about you more than I have any woman.”
His words warmed her heart. “I believe that,” she whispered, then repeated it louder.
* * *
The next morning, Aunt Tweet woke in a combative mood and moved slowly as Tabitha tried to get their day going. She was on the red-scarf binge again and refused to leave the house without it, despite the blistering late-summer heat. Their battle of wills caused Tabitha to be late picking up Rachel and Kym from the airport. Although their aunt’s eyes sparkled with recognition, Aunt Tweet called both of Tabitha’s sisters “miss.” Tabitha could see the pained expressions on their faces.
Back at her house, the atmosphere was so different from before. Kym and Rachel were low-key about going out. Instead, they helped with chores around the house and seemed content with lounging around. That afternoon, while all the sisters were in the kitchen cooking, the doorbell rang.
“Expecting someone?” Kym lifted her brow, teasing, then grinned.
“Girl, please. You know it’s Marcus.” Rachel bumped Kym’s hip. “I wonder if Demetrius is with him,” she stated nonchalantly.
“You’re crushing on him.” Tabitha laughed as she hurried to answer the door. To her delight, Marcus stood larger than life with a smile that made his eyes dance. Unfortunately for Rachel, he was alone.
He stepped inside and graced her with a kiss, then whispered against her lips, “Is everything peaceful?” He stared into her eyes for the truth.
“Peaceful and perfect.” Grabbing his hand, she tugged him toward the kitchen. Rachel pouted her disappointment, Kym was cordial, and Aunt Tweet sat patiently at the table, waiting her for an acknowledgment.
He lifted a bag. “Gooey butter cake, ladies.” He grinned and kissed Aunt Tweet on the cheek. “Can’t go wrong with a Saint Louis favorite.”
His thoughtfulness was definitely an icebreaker. The rest of the afternoon, they relaxed and watched movies.
Sunday morning, Kym assisted Aunt Tweet with bathing and dressing while Rachel prepared omelets. An hour later, Marcus arrived to chauffeur them to church.
Pastor Nelson was about to preach when Demetrius strolled into the sanctuary. Rachel seemed to perk up. The pastor’s message was about empathizing with others by walking in their shoes.
Tabitha and Marcus exchanged knowing smiles before he took her hand and squeezed it.
The next morning, the sisters had their family meeting. “You know, I’m starting to see subtle changes in Aunt Tweet,” Kym admitted. “I’m not sure if her current medicine is slowing down the progression of dementia or not.”
Rachel looked worried. “I can’t help but wonder what state of mind she’ll be in when I take her after Thanksgiving.”
“Your turn begins the first week in November,” Tabitha reminded her. Not that she was trying to get rid of Aunt Tweet, but that was the arrangement. Because of Marcus, she had stopped counting down the weeks and lived moment to moment.
“Ah.” Rachel bowed her head before looking up again. “I was hoping you wouldn’t mind doing the tradeoff the day after Thanksgiving. I mean, we can be together for the holidays.”
“We can easily come to Nashville,” Tabitha said, recalling Fourth of July, when she had expected her sisters and they’d postponed, opting to celebrate Aunt Tweet’s birthday. That had been understandable and reasonable in hindsight.
“I know.” Rachel fumbled with her fingers. “I kinda need the extra time.” She lowered her voice and swallowed. “I know we were against this, but what about a nursing facility?”
Tabitha’s heart dropped but bounced back. Blinking, she waited for her big sister’s response.
Shaking her head, Kym exhaled. “We all agreed to this caregivers’ pact. Maybe we can revisit this after your commitment. Until then, I think we all should spend time with her before it comes to that.”
Good advice, Tabitha thought as Rachel gnawed her on lips. The fear of the unknown was plastered on their younger sister’s face.
Welcome to my world. Closing her eyes, Tabitha rubbed her temples. She had double circled November 6 on her kitchen calendar, set a reminder in her phone; she and Marcus had planned a dinner-and-movie night. It wasn’t to celebrate Aunt Tweet’s leaving but Tabitha making her bonus! It had been a nail-biter down to the last day, but the numbers didn’t lie. “Okay, we can wait until after Thanksgiving, but you two better remember my flexibility. By the way, Marcus and I are participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s event in a few weeks.”
“Marcus?” Kym lifted a brow, then smiled.
“Yes,” Tabitha said smugly. “Aunt Tweet brought us together, and he has been with me every step of the way. No pun intended.” She grinned. “Well, maybe just a little.” She demonstrated with a slight gap between her finger and thumb.
Rachel hmphed. “I need me a Marcus in my life if I’m going to pull off my six months.”
“Sorry. He’s one of a kind. Besides, aren’t you and Demetrius talking seriously?”
“Demetrius isn’t my neighbor. Even if I weren’t going to be a caregiver, I don’t think we would work anyway. I’m high maintenance…”
Tabitha and Kym succumbed to a fit of giggles. “We know,” Tabitha muttered.
Rachel rolled her eyes. “Haters.” Getting up from the sofa, she walked toward the kitchen, then sassed over her shoulder. “See if I don’t outshine both of you as a caregiver.”
“We’re all from the Show-Me State,” Kym challenged, “so show us.”
Chapter 33
When Marcus heard about the Alzheimer’s Association’s biggest fundraiser, the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, he didn’t think twice about getting involved. Because of Aunt Tweet, Marcus had experienced firsthand the effects Alzheimer’s had on its victims as the dementia symptoms ravished her brain cells.
He was glad to help Tabitha make it a team effort, as she had rallied fellow sales reps to join in. Her sisters flew back to Saint Louis to participate in the walk, even though they had the same event in their respective cities. Marcus took it a step further by announcing Whittington Janitorial Services would sponsor their own team on the walk.
Twenty of Marcus’s employees pledged to support the Tweety Bird Team. Chess appointed himself to lead the team, but Marcus tapped his former employee instead. Currently a certified nursing assistant at Delmar Gardens nursing facility, where many patients with the disease resided, Latrice was the perfect candidate and immediately said yes when Marcus asked her. Somehow, Victor got wind of the buzz at Whittington Janitorial and called Marcus.
“Is it okay if I donate some money?”
“You don’t want to walk in the event?” Marcus asked him.
“Nah. I want to give Latrice space.”
“You do realize there’s going to be thousands of thousands of people there. Unless you have GPS tracking on her…” Marcus paused. He didn’t want to give Victor any ideas that could result in stalking charges.
“Nah, I’ve disappointed her too many times.” Victor was silent, then cleared his throat. “When I come back into her life, and I plan to, I’m comin’ a better man. I’m working on it. Anyway, I want to invest that money I got from the lawsuit, so it will last a long time. But it wouldn’t be right for me not to give back something for your cause. I got a hundred bucks to give.”
“A hundred dollars is a lot of money, and God will bless for your generosity.” Before they disconnected, Marcus offered Victor words of encouragement. “
Check in with me from time to time and let me know how you’re making it. I still believe in you.”
“Latrice doesn’t.” He sounded wounded.
Marcus imparted some encouragement. “You might be surprised how things will turn out. The invitation is open to visit my church.”
“Maybe,” Victor said and ended the call.
The day of the walk, Kym and Rachel finally got a chance to meet Miss Betty, who stayed with Aunt Tweet during the event. They seemed to genuinely like the home companion.
As members of the Tweety Bird Team were gathering at the starting point, Tabitha was called away by an older couple.
Kym squinted at Marcus. “How come we don’t have matching outfits?”
He snickered, knowing exactly what she was hinting at. The back of his and Tabitha’s shirts read Walking for the One I Love. The meaning was twofold: they were walking for Aunt Tweet and each other. Marcus feigned cluelessness. “You do. Everyone is wearing our company’s T-shirts.”
“Except you and my sister.” Kym folded her arms as Tabitha pulled the couple toward them.
“Marcus,” she said, beaming, “this is Ava Elise and her husband, John.”
Nodding, Marcus shook their hands. “My father’s name is John.”
“I’ve heard so much about you.” The woman’s eyes twinkled with mischief.
Reaching for Tabitha’s hand, Marcus couldn’t help but grin like a schoolboy. “Good things, I hope.”
“How much time do you have?” Ava Elise rolled her eyes and laughed.
Marcus could never repay the kindness this woman had given his lady before he even knew all the circumstances. He was thankful that her trainer had been behind Tabitha since day one.
Next, Tabitha introduced Kym and Rachel to Ava Elise. While the sisters chatted with the woman, Marcus mentioned his business to John in case he found himself in the need of a cleaning crew for his company. After a few minutes, John and Ava Elise said their goodbyes.
