“Please. This is hard enough as it is.” She fumbled to remove the key ring Brett had given her from her pocket, then handed it to Shelby. “Here’s the key to the cottage.”
Shelby stared at the key, her expression dumbfounded. “You’re leaving? But there’s no need for you to.”
“I can’t stay.”
“What did Brett say to you?”
“Nothing.” Dani crossed her arms against a sudden chill. “We haven’t talked.”
“So you don’t know about Jonah?”
“Did something happen?”
“It’s good news. Meghan called shortly after you left yesterday. Jonah came out of the coma.”
“He’s going to be okay?”
“They’re still running tests, but everything looks positive.”
“I’m glad.” She was glad. At least she wanted to be glad. But truth be told, Jonah’s recovery gave her another reason to leave. Even if Brett and Meghan didn’t love each other, they both loved Jonah. The little guy would be first in Brett’s thoughts and in his heart for a long time. As he should be. Deserved to be.
She refused to be jealous of an injured child. But the green-eyed monster wasn’t so easily dissuaded.
“Why don’t you come in? Have a cup of tea, and we’ll talk.”
Another temptation.
“I need to go.”
“I wish you wouldn’t.”
“It’s for the best.”
“At least talk to Brett first.”
“I don’t think he’s interested in a chat.”
“Then talk to me. I can’t believe you were going to sell those photos. That’s not who you are.”
“You don’t really know me, Shelby.”
“Maybe not. But I still don’t believe it.” She grasped Dani’s arm, her touch light and comforting. “Why were you at the hospital that night?”
Dani’s body tensed and her eyes burned. She bit the inside of her lip, then exhaled a heavy sigh. “I didn’t expect to meet him. That was an accident.”
“But you knew he was there?”
“I followed him from his office.”
“To take his picture?”
“Not really.”
“Then why?”
“I can’t tell you that.” Dani’s heart pounded against her chest. It all seemed so silly now. Why had she ever thought such a stupid scheme would work? Instead of finding a monster, she’d found a friend. More than that. She found someone she cared about. Maybe even loved. “Turns out he’s not the man I thought he was. And I’m sorry for . . . for everything.”
“You can’t leave here without some kind of explanation.”
“Please don’t think me ungrateful. You, all of you, have been so kind. But remember that radio station in Boise I told you about? There’s an opening there, and I’ve decided to take it.”
“So just like that, you’re moving out west?”
“I really have to go. It’s a long drive.”
“I’m going to call Brett. He needs to—”
“No, Shelby. Please don’t.”
“But why not?”
“I hurt him. But right now, he’s happy about Jonah. Don’t spoil that by reminding him of me.”
Shelby shook her head, her expression grim. “Is there anything I can say to change your mind?”
“Just promise me you won’t call him.”
“I promise. But I don’t understand.”
Unable to say any more, Dani hugged Shelby good-bye and hurriedly slid into the driver’s seat. Shelby grabbed at the car door.
“Please stay in touch. I’m praying for you.”
Dani responded with a weak smile. She welcomed Shelby’s prayers, though she didn’t know how much good they would do. Prayer couldn’t turn back time or transform Brett’s anger into affection.
With tears blurring her vision, she pulled out of the graveled drive and headed for the interstate that would take her west.
Brett spent the day in meetings, negotiating contract terms here, putting out a fire there. Toward the middle of the afternoon, he received a text from Amy asking him to stop by around 6:30. He finished up the current project, then drove to the hospital. Thankfully, the reconciliation with Meghan meant he could see Jonah whenever he wanted.
Before he’d left yesterday evening, they had vowed never to tell anyone how they’d cried together in the corridor outside Jonah’s room. The episode had been embarrassing for both of them, but also a release of pent-up emotions that ended in semi-hysterical laughter. Jonah’s parents might not be in love with each other, but neither were they bound by suspicion and fear. Not any longer.
Today the Columbus sky seemed bluer, the sun more radiant. Only two dark clouds hung on the horizon.
Amy and whatever she was up to.
And Dani.
He’d think about Amy when he saw her later.
But it wasn’t so easy to push Dani from his thoughts. Or his heart.
Now that the initial shock of finding the photos had faded, he regretted his bratty behavior. If nothing else, he owed her a new camera. She’d probably never forgive him for breaking hers.
And he wouldn’t blame her. His conduct had been inexcusable.
The memory of her kneeling on the kitchen floor, gathering up the broken pieces, pierced his spirit. Right then, he should have knelt beside her. Begged her forgiveness. Gathered her in his arms.
He wished he had.
– 40 –
Brett punched the up button on the elevator in Amy’s apartment building and eyed the lights above the door.
“Hey, Brett.”
He turned and grinned. “Hey, AJ. What are you doing here?”
“I received a text summons from Princess Amy.”
“So did I.”
“Any idea what she wants?”
“Couldn’t tell you.”
The elevator dinged, and they made small talk until they reached Amy’s floor. She opened her door a few moments after Brett knocked and greeted him with a kiss on the cheek. Her long blonde hair, freshly washed and brushed to a sheen, hung past her shoulders. The sapphire blue dress she wore enhanced the crystal blue of her eyes. Though still too thin, her body exuded an energy that had been missing since her collapse.
“Who are you and what have you done with my sister?” Brett teased.
“Leave her alone,” AJ said, returning Amy’s fragile embrace. “You look lovely.”
“Thank you.” She playfully tugged at the bill of his OSU ball cap. “Take that thing off so I can see your eyes.”
“Sorry. I forgot I was wearing it.”
“Because you’re always wearing it.” She ushered them into the apartment. “Fix yourselves something to drink. Whatever you want.”
“I’m good,” Brett said. “AJ?”
“Nothing for me, either.”
“Suit yourselves.” She lowered herself into a chair, smoothing the long skirt over her knees. The gauzy fabric covered her once shapely legs. Now her skinny ankles appeared barely sound enough to support her.
“So what’s this confab all about, Sis?”
“Maybe I just wanted to spend a little time with my two favorite men.”
“We’re always your favorite when you want something.”
“Don’t be so cynical, Brett.”
AJ laid his cap on the coffee table, then relaxed into the soft contours of the couch. “Did Brett tell you the good news?”
Her gaze moved lazily from AJ to Brett. He sat opposite her, a leg propped on his knee. She arched an eyebrow. “Tell me.”
“Jonah woke up yesterday.” Brett’s voice quavered, and he cleared his throat. “He’s going to be all right.”
She stared at him, her expression impassive, then her eyes softened. “I’m glad, Brett. Really I am.” Her gaze flickered between him and AJ again. “Look at you both. Only a few months ago, you were independent bachelors. Now you both have children in your lives. Strange how quickly things can change.”
“It’s a
good change,” AJ said quietly. “I just wish Gran was still alive to . . .”
“I wish that too.” Amy pulled a strand of her hair through her fingers. A habit she’d had since they were children. “Though I doubt she’d be very happy with me right now.”
“She loved you,” Brett said. “She’d want you to be well.”
Amy held up a palm. “No lectures, okay?”
“I can’t help it if I’m concerned about you.”
“I know. Actually, that’s why I asked you to come.”
Brett exchanged a glance with AJ. “What do you mean?”
“There’s nothing wrong with me. Nothing too serious, anyway.” She jutted out her lower lip, then stared at the large ceramic bowl centered on the coffee table. After a few moments, she raised her eyes and smiled. “But since you two won’t leave me alone, I’ve decided to check into a clinic.”
Brett realized he’d been holding his breath and exhaled relief. Another answered prayer? After all these days of not knowing what to do, where to turn?
AJ reached for Amy’s hand. “This is a big step. I’m proud of you.”
“Which one?” Brett asked, his voice still sounding dry and rough.
“It’s in Richmond, Virginia.”
“I remember reading about that place.” He nodded approval. “When do you go?”
“Now.” A wan smile curved her lips. “Before I change my mind.”
“Let’s do it,” Brett said.
“Are you sure? Now that . . .” She heaved a giant sigh. “I’m sorry. It still seems surreal to me that there’s a little Brett Jr. in the world.”
“His name is Jonah.”
“Does he look like you?”
“He has the Somers eyes.”
“Lucky boy.”
“I doubt he feels that way.”
“That’s not what I meant.”
“I know it’s not. And I know what you’re thinking, but you’re wrong.” He chuckled. “Well, you’re right, but you’re also wrong.”
“What am I thinking?”
“That I won’t take you to Richmond because I won’t want to leave Jonah. You’re right that I don’t want to leave Jonah. But I’m still taking you to Richmond. Whenever you want to go.”
“Tomorrow morning?”
“Tomorrow morning it is.”
“I want to go too,” AJ said.
A faint smile curved Amy’s lips. “That’s sweet of you. But I know you can’t leave your students.”
“For something like this, I can.”
“What about your fiancée?”
“Shelby cares about you, Amy. She only wants to be your friend.”
“Maybe when this is all over, when I get back . . .”
“We’ll have a cookout at Misty Willow. And you’ll be the guest of honor.”
“You two really are my favorite men. All the time.”
“What about the mysterious state senator?” Brett asked, then wished he hadn’t as Amy’s expression darkened. Her jaw clenched, and even the angles of her cheekbones sharpened.
“He no longer matters.”
“Then tell me who he is.”
“Why? It’s not like you’re going to go beat him up.”
“You’re right.” Brett rubbed his jaw. “I’ll send AJ.”
“You don’t have to send anyone. I’ve taken care of him.”
“How’d you do that?”
“Not with my fists.” She flexed her hands, and her dark nails glistened. “Let’s just say, he won’t be running for office again.”
“I thought he had his eyes on a congressional seat.”
“He thinks he does. But he’ll soon find out differently.”
“How can you be so sure?” AJ asked.
“He made the mistake of confiding in me more than he should have. Now he’ll either return to life as John Q. Citizen or face jail time.”
“You can make that happen?”
“I have powerful friends.”
“Guess I better be glad you only hit me with a lawsuit,” AJ said.
“I am sorry about that. Though you deserved it.”
“Let’s pretend that never happened,” Brett said. “We’ve got a long day of driving tomorrow. I’m going to stop by the hospital first, so what time should we plan on leaving?”
They worked out travel arrangements, then Amy walked them to the door. After AJ said good-bye and stepped into the hall, Brett pulled his sister into a hug.
“I’m scared,” she whispered.
“I know. But you’re also very brave. Gran would be so proud.”
“Will you visit me?”
“As often as they’ll let me.” His lips brushed her hair. “Get a good night’s sleep, okay?”
She nodded.
“See you in the morning.”
“Night.”
He joined AJ at the elevator bank.
“Do you think she’s right about that senator?” he asked.
“Imagine so,” Brett said. “I’d still like to know who he is.”
“Me too.” AJ unconsciously made a fist.
“What about turning the other cheek and all that stuff?”
“I’ll turn my cheek when someone hurts me. But it’s hard to stand by and do nothing when it’s Amy.”
“Or Jonah. Meghan’s ex is another scumbag I’d like to get hold of.”
“Did you go to the hospital today?”
“Before I came here.”
“How’s he doing?”
“He’s alert for longer periods.” Brett smiled at the memory. “We talked. Just for a minute.”
“What did he say?”
“Thanks for the monkey. That he wants to see the Bucks play.”
“Another fan.”
“Looks like.”
“Does he know who you are?”
“Meghan told him I’m a family friend. We agreed he needs to get stronger before telling him the truth.”
“That’s probably wise, but it’s gotta be hard.”
“Worthwhile things often are.” He followed AJ into the elevator and pushed the button for the lobby. “Are you in a hurry to get home?”
“Why do you ask?”
“Thought you could help me pick out a new camera for Dani.”
“You’re not mad at her anymore?”
“I broke it. I need to replace it.” What he felt didn’t matter.
AJ shuffled uncomfortably and adjusted his ball cap.
“Are you going to help me or not?”
“Dani’s gone.”
Gone? The air whooshed from Brett’s lungs as the harsh word reverberated in his head.
“Gone where?”
“Boise.”
“But why?”
“To take a job at a radio station.”
“She had a job here.” This couldn’t be happening. “When did she leave?”
“This morning.”
“And you’re just telling me now?”
“I only found out a little while ago. Shelby told me before I drove up here.”
As they stepped into the lobby, Brett pulled out his phone and navigated to his recent calls screen. “Why didn’t Shelby tell me? Maybe I could have stopped her.”
“Dani made her promise not to. Who are you calling?”
“Who do you think?”
The phone rang several times, then went to voicemail. Dani’s cheery voice identified herself and promised to return calls as quickly as possible. When the beep finally sounded, his mouth went dry.
“It’s me, Brett.” A pause while he struggled with what to say. “Just call me, okay. Please. Call me.”
He ended the call and slipped the phone in his pocket. His thoughts twirled in a maelstrom of emotion. The photos she’d taken—he couldn’t believe she meant to sell them. But if that was the lie, then what was the truth?
“I can’t believe she left.”
“You’re really upset about this.” The surprise in AJ’s voice needled and scratched.
“What exactly did Shelby tell you?”
“Dani stopped by this morning. Her car was completely packed. She left a box with notes about the project, I’m not sure what else. And said she was leaving.”
“Nothing else? Nothing about me?”
“She told Shelby it was an accident—meeting you. Except that she followed you to the hospital from your office. So that doesn’t make sense.”
Unless she’d told him the truth. All she wanted from him was photographs for the tabloids.
His heart refused to accept that explanation. Somehow he couldn’t reconcile the Dani who wrote such a moving script about a lonely boy missing his dad with someone who’d profit from his despair. No, the Dani he knew, the Dani he cared about, would never do such a thing.
He’d been in anguish when she took those photos. But then the ambulance had come, siren blaring, and caught his attention. He turned toward the street corner, and for reasons he still didn’t understand, he’d been captivated by her presence. Why else would he have crossed the street in that moment when only Jonah mattered?
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you like this,” AJ said. “You want to . . . wait a minute. It’s Monday night.”
“So?”
“It’s not that late. Aren’t you going to Gallagher’s?”
“I gave that up.”
“Because of Dani?”
“No,” Brett said more harshly than he intended. “Because I . . . because I just got tired of it. The juvenile games. The sophomoric rivalry. All of it.”
“Because of Dani.”
“She had nothing to do with it.”
“Keep telling yourself that, cuz. I know better.”
“There you go again. The curse of the newly-in-love. Always playing matchmaker.”
“I didn’t set you up with her.” A grin spread across AJ’s tanned features. “Maybe God is your matchmaker.”
“Great. Now you’re directing Fiddler on the Roof.”
“Hey, it fits.”
“You need to get out more, AJ.”
“I’m happy right where I am.”
As an older couple approached the elevators, Brett and AJ moved to a seating area. Brett perched on the arm of an upholstered chair. “What am I going to do about Dani?”
“Go after her.”
“She lied to me.”
“And you’ve never lied to a woman. Not even to Dani?”
Only once.
When Love Arrives Page 28
