Love and Repair Series Box Set

by Chelsea Camaron

  Chapter Nine

  Money

  Dina

  I’m such an idiot. When Maggie told me about the credit card, I should have taken it seriously. I stare at the paper in front of me showing a five thousand dollar cash advance, tons of fast food, gas and grocery store charges. The shocker comes in the bills that were paid with the card. Using my company credit card, Brayden paid his phone, electric, and cable bill. Maggie knows to just ask for money so I know he took the card without her knowledge.

  After a quick call to the bank, the card is cancelled. I pay off the almost eight thousand dollars that totaled all the charges and order a new card. I decide not to tell Maggie right now. She has enough on her plate. What has Brayden gotten into that he’s spending this much money?

  Ryder and I meet for dinner at Rock Bottom, a restaurant here in Charlotte, so I decide to discuss the situation with him. He listens intently, his face giving nothing away. I can feel the tension building inside of him.

  “Dina, I told him, I didn’t want you involved in this mess. Are you really not going to say anything?” He asks me rather harshly.

  Defensively I answer, “It’s just money, Ryder. I cannot and will not watch my best friend get more upset over this. It can’t be changed, it’s done. Brayden will get his head on straight eventually or Maggie will move on and be happy.”

  Ryder looks across the table at me with a stern expression. “It’s just money, really? What the fuck? How much money do you have exactly, Dina? We aren’t talking hundreds here, this is thousands. You’re way too calm about this.”

  This is the question I’ve always dreaded. “Does it really matter Ryder?” He nods that it does but says nothing. Well, then, time to explain it.

  I can’t stop the tears that begin to fall. “The money came from a tragedy, if it can help Brayden or Maggie so be it. The drunk driver who hit my parents happened to be operating a company vehicle for a well-known bottling company. Without my even asking, they paid out a seven point two million dollar settlement. I sold my dad’s garage to pay for my parents funerals since I didn’t have the settlement at that point in time. Really, I didn’t need the garage anyway since I was in Charlotte going to school, not back at the coast to run a business. I used some of the money to pay for both Maggie and I to have a college education with no loans, her parents paid for most of her education anyway so I didn’t use much for her half. I also used it to buy my car; Maggie’s car, my house, and the up keep of my parent’s beach house. I have earned back the capitol I originally invested in my business and the rest has been invested well, so yes, before you ask, I’m more than set for life.” By this point I’m sobbing as he moves over to my side and wraps his arm around me.

  “I’m sorry, Dina, I had no right to ask. I’m an ass. I’m frustrated with Brayden and took it out on you. I didn’t want any of his mess to touch you and it is.”

  I manage a weak smile. “No, Ryder, I need to share this with you. I don’t want a relationship like Brayden and Maggie. It’s just hard to talk about. I don’t live extravagantly, and honestly I don’t even like the money. I would gladly give back every penny to have even just one more car show with my dad. I donate annually to causes that would mean something to them, but it still brings me no comfort.”

  I don’t know if it’s all the stress from Maggie’s situation or what, but I feel very on edge. The walls slowly closing in around us as I finally find happiness. I wish my dad was still alive; he would give me the right advice to know what to do not only for my best friend but to be able to help Brayden as well. Plus, I would be able to tell him what is going on without betraying Maggie. I want her family to know what’s going on. She could use the support right now. It’s not my story to tell though, so for now I’m keeping quiet. My dad would be here with her dad to sort of all this out if I had him to tell. I want so badly to call Maggie’s parents so they’re at least aware of the unknown variables of what Brayden has brought us all into. She’s asked me not to say anything so I respect that after all my secrets she carried about the abuse with Michael. I certainly owe her the time and space to share when she’s ready.

  Chapter Ten

  Another Blow

  Brayden

  It’s been a few weeks; Maggie and I are getting along and trying to sort through everything. Ryder and Dina seem distant. I guess Ryder is just going along with his girl at being angry with me. Whatever, if Maggie can push things aside they should too. I still haven’t come clean with Maggie and some days my conscience gets to me.

  Work has been busy; Ryder really came through with a nice raise. I’ve managed to save a little money and keep my needs taken care of. Tonight we’re closing early. Ryder is attending a charity event that Dina and Maggie are working.

  Valerie invited me to hang out, so I guess I’ll meet up with her. Valerie and I have been close since we were in the sixth grade. Her twin, Vanessa, was Bianca’s best friend so she was always around. She has seen me at my worst. More than that, she knows the true depth of my inner demons. She too, feels chased by the ghosts of past. She got home not too long ago from rehab. Rejection is never easy to take and apparently Ryder’s lack of interest in being anything more than friends pushed Val to her breaking point. I hope she’s gotten the help she needs. For being friends for so long, I’ve never been able to comfort her. We relate on loss, bitterness, but never have we been friends to console one another.

  Maggie

  Dina and I have spent over six months working on this charity auction for the Lupus Foundation of America. Every dinner ticket not only sold, but each person is in attendance and ready to bid. The auctions tonight will do exceptionally well.

  We’re almost finished with the auction items when my phone rings. I don’t recognize the number so I answer. “Hello, this is Maggie Lawson of DM Events and Promotions.”

  A man’s voice replies, “Is this Margaret Rose Lawson?”

  “Yes, this is she.” I reply wondering who is on the other end of the line.

  “Ma’am, I am Deputy Jones and your car has been in an accident. The man driving has no identification on him. He is currently in route to CMC. We need you to meet us there.”

  “Ok, yes sir, I’m on my way.” I manage as my heart sinks in worry for Brayden.

  Oh my goodness, Brayden’s been in an accident. My mind races over everything. Is he okay? Was he injured? I find Dina; she has Ryder take me to the hospital as I’m in no condition to drive. She will finish the event and meet us at the hospital as soon as she can.

  Chapter Eleven

  The Secret Is Out

  Maggie

  We arrive at Carolina Medical Center and are immediately greeted with paperwork and Deputy Jones.

  I ask, “Where’s Brayden? Is he okay? Can we see him?”

  Deputy Jones puts up his hand, thus silencing me. “The man driving your car is being treated. He is stable with no life threatening injuries, but is pretty banged up. Before you can see him, we need some information.”

  “His name is Brayden Eugene Holmes. He’s my boyfriend.” I inform the officer so he can quit referring to Brayden as ‘the man driving’. Brayden isn’t a nobody, he has friends who love him.

  A young nurse named Jamie gave us what seems like a mountain of paperwork to fill out. Ryder helps me answer the questions and hands Jamie his credit card and the insurance card for the company policy he has on all his employees.

  “Whatever the insurance doesn’t cover just charge to the credit card.” Ryder tells her.

  As we start our way back to the emergency department the deputy stops us. “Ms. Lawson, here is a business card for the people you will need to contact about your car. You’re responsible for towing and storage of your vehicle. I’ll be honest, your friend slammed into a concrete construction divider on Interstate 85 at an extremely high rate of speed. He’s lucky he has no serious injuries. I don’t know that much if any of your car can be salvaged though. There were no other cars involved so you’re just left
with the responsibility of your car and insurance. We’ll be in touch as we do have some questions for Mr. Holmes.”

  When we finally get back to see Brayden, I am not at all prepared for what we see. His face is so swollen he is almost unrecognizable. The bruising has already started. The nurse, Jamie, said they are waiting on him to wake up to access the full extent of his injuries.

  “He’s stable, he’s banged up but considering the speed involved in the accident he’s gonna be fine. There’s no sign of serious head injury. The facial swelling and bruising you see is from the airbag.” Jamie informs casually as my head spins.

  I sit down by his bed. This is all so much to take in at once. I’m holding his hand as he starts to wake.

  He opens his eyes and looks straight at me. “I love you, Maggie, I’m sorry.” He says in a scratchy voice. I start to cry, unable to stop myself.

  Dina walks in, she doesn’t speak she just goes over to sit on Ryder’s lap since chair space is limited. I know she hates hospitals and this rattles her nerves to the core. Now sitting here, seeing someone I love so much, in such a state just lying in a bed with machines making noise to monitor his blood pressure and heart, I can see why Dina is so uncomfortable.

  The doctor enters right behind her with a very stern expression, “Mr. Holmes, I’m going to ask you this one time and I expect you to be completely honest with me. How long have you been using drugs?

  Brayden

  I wake up in a hospital bed. Before I have an opportunity to comprehend what landed me here, I have a doctor asking me about my drug use. Now there is no avoiding it, time to come clean.

  “On and off since I was fifteen. Actively with no attempt at stopping for the last ten months and since you’re going to ask, yes, I’m a daily user.” I answer completely numb and void of emotion.

  Maggie immediately starts to cry uncontrollably beside me.

  Ryder shakes his head muttering. “Shit man, I had hoped Valerie was lying.”

  The doctor looks right at me. “I have to turn your toxicology report over to the police.” With that he walks out, leaving me to face those closest to me.

  Maggie is sobbing into her hands, not looking at me or speaking to me. Dina stands up, but has yet to speak to me. She just watches me with a look of hurt as she pulls out her phone and begins dialing. So much for her respecting the hospital no cell phone rule.

  I listen as she speaks. “Page Wendy Carmichael please, its Dina Fowler calling.” Who the hell is that?

  There is a pause then Dina begins. “Wendy, I’m sorry to bother you outside of office hours. I need you to represent a Mr. Brayden Eugene Holmes. He totaled a car driving under the influence. I don’t care what the costs are; you get his ass in rehab. Thanks, I’ll be in touch.”

  Ryder holds her for a moment. I know he’s piping hot mad, but remaining calm for Dina’s sake. The other day I learned what a temper she really has, but never have I seen so much tension, anger, and sadness roll off her all at once.

  For a while she stands there almost as if it’s all becoming clear to her. Then she looks at me with malice in her eyes. “You sorry piece of shit, my parents died because of a selfish bastard just like you. You guys just care about your high, your buzz, your escape. You get behind a wheel of a car with no regard to the innocent lives you affect. You are so beyond lucky no other cars were involved or that Maggie wasn’t with you. Let’s be clear, I don’t give two shits what your issues are, you’re going to rehab! My attorney is going to arrange everything as well as handle your ensuing legal issues. Get your shit straight, Brayden and fast. You’re better than this, Maggie deserves better than this.”

  Before I can respond, she looks to Maggie and her demeanor visibly relaxes. “Maggie, I love you. I’m here for you always. Call me later; here are the keys to my car, if you want to stay. I need to get out of here.”

  She leans into Ryder and asks, “Please take me home right now. It’s all too much I think I’m going to be sick. This hits too close to home.”

  Neither of them say goodbye, they just leave. Maggie still won’t stop crying or even look at me much less speak. Now I’m left laying here unable to put thoughts together to what is going to happen next.

  Thank you, ‘Doctor I don’t give a damn about patient confidentiality’ for putting my business out there. Now, I have a rehab issue to face. I look over to find a very broken hearted and disappointed Maggie that I need to deal with. I hurt everyone. I’m sure my pain meds will be cut off immediately, now that they’ve found a shit load of cocktails in my system. Uppers, downers, mood enhancers, and anything else you could imagine to escape the ghosts has been in my system in the last thirty days, and although I am not proud of it, I would do it again in a heartbeat. No one knows the hell I face at every turn. They all just judge me, like they would handle it so different.

  Dina knows loss. Her loss cuts deep; I would never take that away from her. She can’t understand though, no one can, the loss that should have been me.

  Chapter Twelve

  Time to Face It

  Maggie

  As I sit here coming to terms with the reality of my situation I become stir crazy. I get up and leave without uttering even one word to Brayden.

  I call a cab to take me home, as I’m too upset to drive. Dina’s car is safe in a parking garage nearby. When I arrive home, Dina immediately hugs me.

  “Maggie, what do you need me to do?”

  I’m so numb I can only manage to stammer my reply. “I don’t know, I just don’t know.”

  The three of us sit down on Dina’s sectional sofa. At first we’re all silent. What is there to say?

  Ryder is the first to break the silence. “Maggie, I owe you an apology. I’ve had my suspicions but didn’t take them seriously. Valerie told me while she was in rehab that Brayden was her drug buddy in high school and college. Val has known Bray longer than me. She made it sound past tense like he wasn’t using anymore. I think back and the signs are there if you look for them. I took for granted that Bray would never put you or any of us in this situation. I’m sorry I didn’t step in sooner.”

  We’re all quiet again for a few minutes then Dina says, “Maggie, I think we should call your dad.” I shake my head no at her. Not backing down she continues, “Maggie, not only are your parents planning to visit in two weeks, Harrison called and he wants to come with Tiffany as well.”

  I think over it for a moment. Actually she’s right, it’s time to tell my family. My dad is just who I need to talk to right now. He can help me understand.

  I call and he answers on the second ring, “Hello Princess.”

  Before he can say anything more than princess, I immediately cry. “Oh daddy, everything is a mess.”

  I take a few seconds to compose myself. Then, I give my dad the run down on everything with Brayden. He remains silent.

  “Daddy, are you still there?” I finally say.

  “Yes Princess, always.” He sighs and begins, "I don’t know what to say to you that will make any of this any easier.” He breathes heavily again. “My precious daughter, your head is going to tell you that it’s over, and he’s no good for you. Your head is going to tell you to walk away. My princess, your heart on the other hand is going to hold on to hope. Your heart will ask you to love unconditionally and help him to change.”

  “So,” I ask, “which one do I listen to, my head or my heart, Daddy?”

  “That’s not for me to answer. Time will show you which way to go, Princess. As your dad, I want to hurt Brayden for hurting you. As a man, who has made more than enough of his own mistakes, I want to see the two of you overcome this.” He pauses, but continues, “Princess, just take some time and take things slow, one day at a time, and if that becomes too hard, take it one hour at a time. We’ll be out to visit in two weeks to take your mind off of things, okay?”

  I find comfort in this. “I can’t wait to see you Daddy, I love you.” And with that we both hang up.

  Dina is cryi
ng beside me on the couch. I know this is opening a wound for her. I don’t think a person can ever fully heal from the loss of their parents in such a tragic way.

  She slowly smiles at me. “Forget two weeks, Maggie. Let’s finish up the few items to do at work this week and have a long weekend starting Thursday at the beach house. I’ll even call Harrison and invite him. We can get away and see your family.”

  I smile genuinely at her knowing that I need this escape desperately. “That’s perfect. Right now, I need to be back home to sort things out.”

  Ryder clears his throat. “Is this a girl’s only weekend?”

  Dina looks at me for an answer. I chuckle at them. “No Ryder, you can come too. Be warned my dad and brother treat Dina just like me so be prepared for your interrogation.”

  He smiles a full smile. “I’ll have to come in late Friday night, but I would enjoy a weekend with your family. Your big, bad brother, dad and all.”

  I remember when I brought Brayden home for the first time. My mom fell in love, but she has always been one to simply accept all my friends and boyfriends at first introduction.

  My dad took him out to the garage, to have what he calls “the man talk.” I don’t know what that entails exactly, but I do know its starts with, “What are your intentions with my daughter, son?” All the while my dad is opening his big gun safe to show off the arsenal.

  My brother, Cory, seemed indifferent to meeting Brayden, almost preoccupied. He’s the middle child so he has never really been protective of either Harrison or me. Cory is the quiet one, the serious one. He is an investment broker for some firm up in Raleigh. Harrison and I don’t see or hear much from him, but he calls mom daily.

  Harrison, on the other hand, he found out I was home that weekend and brought a boyfriend from college with me to visit, and made a surprise trip of his own to drop by.