“Babe, what’s wrong?”
Your words are haunting me. That’s what’s wrong.
“Nothing… I had a nightmare.”
“Jada, it wasn’t nothing. You’re crying.”
I touch my face and feel the tears running down my cheeks.
“What was it about?”
“Richard… he came here. It seemed so real. Oh my God,” I sigh.
Jonathan pulls me in his arms and holds me close to his chest.
“I answered the door thinking it was Phillip. You had gone to the bathroom. When I realized it was Richard, I was about to call the police, but he pulled me by my hair and put a knife to my throat. He told me he wanted ten million dollars.”
“It’s just a reflection of what’s been on your mind.”
“But it felt so real. He said if I had really loved him, I wouldn’t have moved on to another man already… Then the thunder woke me.”
“Jada, all of this is because of our conversation earlier.”
“I know,” I whisper.
“Don’t think about it. Let’s get you into bed… Try to get some sleep. You want me to get you some water or something?”
“No… I’m good, thanks.”
He dims the lights and sits beside me, his head leaning against the headboard as I try to fall asleep. Half an hour later, I’m still awake. I can’t get Richard’s question or Jonathan’s comment out of my head.
“Why aren’t you asleep?” Jonathan suddenly asks.
“Why aren’t you asleep?” I reply.
“I want to be sure you’re okay before I go to bed.”
“I’ll get over it.”
“What’s your favorite color?” he asks.
I smile at his attempt to distract me.
“White and blue. What’s yours?”
“Navy and grey.”
“Ever so manly,” I giggle.
“Tell me three things I should do or see before I die,” he says, kissing me on my cheek.
“Fall in love.”
“Done that.”
“See the Pitons at home, especially at sunset.”
“Never done that. What are the Pitons?”
“A pair of remarkable mountains.”
“Okay, what else?”
“Bathe in a waterfall.”
“Never done that either.”
“Your turn.”
“Sleep under the stars.”
“Does falling asleep by a pool count?”
“No.”
“Okay, never done that.”
“See the Golden Gate Bridge at sunrise and sunset.”
“I’ve seen the sunset while driving but never stopped to enjoy it.”
“Help someone.”
“Well, I’d like to think that I do that, but I’m sure I could always do more.”
“We all can.”
“When’s your birthday?” I ask.
“Tomorrow.”
“Are you serious?”
“I am.”
“Would you have told me if I didn’t ask?”
“Maybe.”
“How young will you be?”
He chuckles. “Thirty-seven.”
“We have to do something to celebrate.”
“That’s not necessary. But I made reservations for dinner tomorrow.”
“Where?”
“That’s a surprise. I’d ask you when yours is, but I already know.”
“Of course you do. How?”
“I may not have read that evidence file on you, but I did read the basic info page… and if I’m being honest, I checked you out the day after we first met.”
“Why am I not surprised. Tell me something else about you that I should know.”
“You should know I’m seriously thinking about resigning.”
“What? Why? Not because of me, I hope?”
“No. Things at the firm are falling apart in the two weeks Dad hasn’t been there. We’ve lost a few of our major clients since Dad died, and one of our better attorneys has accepted a position with another firm.”
“Do you have any alternative?”
“I might. We could partner or merge with another firm. Or I can find an attorney who’s experienced enough to hold things down for the next few years till my term ends. That would be helpful. Unfortunately, all these attorneys usually already run their own firms or are partners at others.”
“I’m sorry. Is there anything I can do?”
“No, Babe,” he replies, kissing me on my forehead. “I have a few meetings set up next week. Hopefully, some other alternative will arise out of them.”
“Thanks for sharing this with me. Do you need money to keep things going?”
“No. It’s not at that stage yet. Our problem right now is leadership and expertise, not cash. If it were, we would be able to handle that for a while, though.”
“Are you worried?”
“Concerned. I spoke to many of our clients that left. They told me if I were still at the firm, they’d stay, but they don’t believe we have the best team to give them the representation they need. This is my father’s legacy. He taught me everything I know, left me this business that he worked so hard for. I can’t allow it to run into the ground.
At the same time, I’m an elected official, and people who had confidence in me put me there to serve them. I owe it to them to exhaust all avenues before I take such a drastic step.”
“It’s a difficult decision. I’m sorry this has been so tough for you.”
“I have to believe it will resolve itself.”
“Please, let me know if there is anything I can do.”
“Actually there is… don’t fire us,” he laughs.
“You know I wouldn’t. I have you in my corner, and I think that you being on my side is probably my greatest asset.”
“Awww. You’re so sweet,” he replies then kisses me lightly on my lips.
“Stay here with me,” I whisper.
He sinks into the bed next to me. I cuddle in his arms, and soon I sleep.
I wake early the next morning. Jonathan is still fast asleep in my bed. That’s perfect. It’s still raining cats and dogs outside. I get out of bed, detour to the bathroom, then head to the kitchen.
I proceed to make him breakfast, which I will serve him in bed—baked ricotta with roasted tomatoes and bacon, with a side of toasted filone slices and a bowl of fruit. After I add some freshly squeezed orange juice and coffee to the tray, I head to the bedroom singing my rendition of Happy Birthday.
He wakes all smiles. I set the tray down on the bedside table, and he swoops me in his arms, pinning my body beneath his. I lean forward and kiss him lightly on his lips.
“Happy birthday.”
“Thank you… I don’t think I’ve ever woken up to anything like this on my birthday.”
“Well, since someone gave me late notice, I had to find a way to get creative to make today special.”
“You didn’t have to do any of this.”
“Of course I did… I’m hoping the weather clears up later. We can go driving around and see what Big Sur has to offer.”
“That sounds perfect.”
We enjoy breakfast and a lazy few hours watching TV in bed. By mid-morning, the clouds disappear and make way for sunny blue skies. After feeding the dogs and taking them out for their morning walk and beach run, we shower, change, and take the SUV, camera in hand, and head out for an afternoon of sightseeing.
It is unbelievably beautiful, with stunning mountain views to the left and panoramic ocean vistas to the right. Rocky shoreline and steep cliffs are unceasing on our drive.
As we head south, we come across a stunning architectural gem—Bixby Creek Bridge, an arched masterpiece that towers 280 feet above the creek below. On one side, the mountains keep watch, on the other, the ocean crashes into the small cove and rugged shoreline below. I didn’t even have to ask Jonathan to stop. For the better part of half an hour, he is patient with me while I photogr
aph the mountains, bridge, valleys, and ocean that surround us. From a distance, I am able to zoom into him and get some awesome shots as he looks out at the views.
We hit the road again. My fingers entwine with his as we continue our drive through the Cabrillo Highway. There are never-ending lookout points of panoramic ocean vistas, and I know during the week, I’ll have to come back here on my own time and photograph every inch of this place.
We soon approach a sign that reads Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. It looks like there is a waterfall somewhere near. We park and take the trail through. A spectacular plunge waterfall spouts directly into the teal and turquoise cove waters below. The jagged coastline frames the view, along with the beach. My only disappointment is that the only access to the beach is by boat. I know I would be able to take some superb shots from there. I suppose I could save that for another day. If I know myself well, I can spend half the day in a place like that with my camera.
The sun starts to drop, and I’d like to stay. However, Jonathan insists that we have to return home to get ready for our dinner reservation in an hour.
I don’t know what he has up his sleeve, but he seems so excited, it peeks my curiosity. It’s his birthday. I happily oblige, and soon I am getting ready at home. It’s a bit chilly outside. I slip into a long sleeve, off-the-shoulder bandage dress. After sliding on an exquisite pair of Oscar de le Renta gold sandals and some jewelry, I’m ready to leave the house.
Fifteen minutes later, we arrive at a beautiful resort with panoramic Big Sur vistas. It’s sunset and I am starting to understand why Jonathan was so adamant about getting here precisely on time. Holding my hand, he leads the way to the restaurant. Sierra Mar. Walls of glass and the ocean beyond surround us. The views are incredible, and the sun casts a warm, orange glow over us. Because of the architecture, it feels like we are floating over the water hundreds of feet below. Almost like we’re suspended in midair. It’s romantic, and the corner table we sit at adds a sense of intimacy.
“This is remarkable… Thank you for bringing me here. It’s a pity I left my camera at home.”
“I brought it… it’s in the backseat of the car.” He smiles.
I’m excited. After we place our order, I leave for five minutes to get some shots then return to our table.
“You’re like a kid in a candy store when you have that camera.”
“I love it. Thank you for bringing it and allowing me to get a few pics.”
“It’s a pleasure watching you while you take photos. You’re so passionate.”
“I am… I love it… It relaxes me.” I blush. “So tell me… how did you find this awesome place?”
“When you told me you’d found a house here, I did some research on the area. I instantly understood why you chose to stay here.”
“It’s lovely here. I had a fantastic time today.”
“You certainly found a way to make it a birthday I’ll never forget.”
“I’m glad you enjoyed it as much as I did,” I reply as the waiter places our food before us then leaves.
“Are you seeing anyone else?” Jonathan asks.
I am flabbergasted. I’m not sure what reaction I should have to that question. Should I be offended? Should I be angry? Should I just answer his question?
“Why would you ask me a question like that?” I eventually respond.
“I don’t think that you are, but I wasn’t sure.”
“Since we started spending time together, have you been screwing Sophie, or anyone else for that matter?”
I realize I’m upset. At this point, in this exquisite setting, I’m hurt by his question.
“Jada, I’m sorry… I didn’t mean it like that.”
“How exactly did you mean it?” I mutter under my breath.
“I have these growing feelings for you. I know you’re not ready for another relationship, but… I just want to be sure that I’m not getting too deeply involved with a woman who’s ultimately not available.”
“You should know the answer to that question. You should never have to ask me that. And the fact that you have means you don’t know me as well as I thought you did.”
“I didn’t mean to upset you. I just wanted to know where I stood with you.”
“Why couldn’t you just ask me?”
“The truth of the matter is, we’ve only known each other for a few months, and we’ve only really been in each other’s lives in the last few weeks. We’re still getting to know each other.”
In some ways, it feels like we have been seeing each other for months. I suppose, in the last few weeks, we’ve been through some heavy issues together, making things seem a lot longer than it’s actually been. I understand where he’s coming from, but his question hurts a little.
“No,” I answer quietly. “I’m not seeing anyone else. Are you?”
“I’m not.”
At this point, the conversation is over, but the mood has changed between us. For the rest of dinner, we eat in complete silence. While Jonathan pays the bill, I step outside and sit by the pool for some fresh air. Darkness has fallen upon us. It’s a pity that such a great day has ended this way. I hope that by the time we get back home, I’ll get over whatever silly feelings of hurt I might have.
I sense his presence behind me, and I’m about to turn when I feel his hands on my bare shoulders.
“I’m sorry,” he says.
“I’m sorry too. You ready to go?”
“Actually, no. I’m not. I didn’t mean to offend you.”
“There’s no need for you to explain,” I respond. “Your question just hurt a bit. I thought you knew me better. I confide in you more than I have in anyone else in the last few weeks. I didn’t think you’d ever need to ask me that question. I’d never do that to you. I know what that feels like.”
Perhaps that’s why this bothered me so much, because on some level, what he was asking would have equated with what Richard had done to me. Under the circumstances, maybe I overreacted.
“Jonathan, I’m sorry. This wasn’t your fault. I guess I’m being overly sensitive. Let’s go home.”
“Are you sure we’re okay?”
“Yes. I just want to go home.”
We drive in silence with the exception of the light jazz that plays on the radio. When we arrive at the house, Jonathan decides to turn in early. I need to clear my mind. The dogs keep watch as I slip into my swimsuit and do a few laps in the pool. I wish the day had not ended this way. I feel guilty for spoiling what would have otherwise been a perfect day—Jonathan’s birthday.
Apart from our squabbles when we first met, we’ve never had any sort of fight or misunderstanding. This is our first, and it leaves me worrying about our future. Will he retrieve? Has this ruined what we have? Then I realize I’m afraid that I’ve scared him away, and it leaves my stomach feeling twisted.
I didn’t show it at the dinner table, but I was so relieved when he told me he hadn’t been seeing anyone else. The truth is, if he had, it would have hurt me, even though I know we’re technically not in a relationship.
I guess I’m being selfish, but the truth is, I want to have my cake and eat it too. I don’t want him seeing anyone else, but I’m still not ready to commit to him.
I now know with absolute surety, I don’t want to lose him. I want him to be a part of my life… I hope it isn’t too late.
I continue swimming. At some point, I look up and he’s standing at the end of the pool watching me, clad only in pajama bottoms.
“Isn’t that water cold?” he asks.
“No. The pool is heated. You should come in; it feels great.”
He pulls off his pajamas and dives in. He’s wearing those sexy trunks again. He corners me at the end of the pool, looking into my eyes.
“You realize you’ve been out here for two hours?” he asks.
“No, I didn’t… I needed some time to think.”
“About what?”
“You… me… us…”
/> “Care to share?”
“I’m sorry I screwed up your birthday.”
“You didn’t. It’s been the best birthday I ever had. I wouldn’t let a mix-up wreck it.”
“I was afraid that I scared you away.”
“It would take a hell of a lot more than that to send me away,” he says, slipping one arm around me and drawing my body closer to his. I cross my arms around his neck.
“I want you in my life. I don’t want to lose you,” I whisper, leaning my head against his.
“I’m not going anywhere,” he responds, leaving soft impressions on my cheek. “Trust me.”
I turn my head to his and he finds my lips. He pins my body against the wall of the pool with his. I wrap my legs around him, enabling me to reach his lips. Cupping my face in his hands, his passion is unleashed and he burns my lips with his. His kisses are deep and sweet, and it wakes a desire that’s been asleep inside me. His hands roam over my body, from neck to my breasts and down to my ass, where he lovingly caresses me.
I can’t hold back further. I allow my hands to wander over his body. Holding him by his ass, I pull him closer into me. I can feel him hard against my stomach. He wraps his arms tightly around me. With my legs still folded around his body, he carries me out of the pool to the nearby chaise.
He lies above me, his awesome body placed between my expanded legs. He continues to pleasure my lips. His hands massage my breasts, and I know I don’t want to hold back further. If I were sure the outdoor cameras weren’t angled at us, I’d rip my swimsuit off right there, but I’m not about to entertain the FBI with what will be the most intimate moment I’ve ever shared with Jonathan.
“Stop,” I whisper. “Let’s go inside. There are hidden cameras out here.”
He immediately rises to his feet and leads the way to the bedroom, being sure to switch the electronic draperies closed. I await him, sitting at the edge of the four-poster bed. He stands between my legs. While he gently explores my mouth, he fiddles with the straps of my swimsuit top, trying to release the ties. He soon grows impatient and lifts it over my head.
He gently pushes me up the bed. I’m lying on my back. He circles my breasts, one each in his hands, and teases my hard nipples with his tongue. I find his lips once more, and he frames my body, his arms on either side of my head.
Love, Lies & The D.A. Page 23
