“Surely you jest, Rebecca Hartly Cooper! Then again, they might have more in common than any of us realize; their backgrounds are similar. I just hope she hasn’t gotten herself in trouble with him.”
“What do you mean?” Jen asked as she seethed inside.
“Pregnant, silly. Surely you realize they’ve been sleeping together. I mean, she wouldn’t answer the door when I went over to visit, and he was there all hours of the day and half the night. I doubt they were only talking.”
“That’s a wicked thing to say about our best friend.”
“Don’t be naive or let her kind fool you, Jennifer. In fact, if Rachel continues along this ridiculous course, you two should think hard about your friendship with her; you don’t want her troubles to rub off on you.”
“Here comes Rachel now. Why don’t you talk to her about it?”
Janet looked suddenly flustered. “The meeting’s about to begin. I’ll see you two later.”
Becky watched Janet hurry away and was surprised the woman didn’t hang around to interrogate Rachel. She smiled at her friend and said, “Perfect timing; Janet was irritating us to no end.”
“Thank goodness she left before I arrived. I didn’t want to tangle with her today. Wait until you hear the wonderful news.”
“About Quentin?”
“About Karen and David; they got married on the ship yesterday,” Rachel began, then related the facts and Quentin’s call before it was time to sit down to eat and discuss the future gala and collections.
Not wanting to spoil Rachel’s good mood, Becky and Jen didn’t tell her what Janet had said earlier. Later, they would, as they thought Rachel should be aware of the woman’s feelings and actions.
When Quentin called, Rachel told him she had been working on her novel and was pleased with her progress. Again, he gave her encouragement and offered to connect her with his publishing friend. She related Karen’s news and they chatted about the newlyweds, their work abroad, and the future party for them.
“So, what’s your good news?” she asked, suspense chewing on her.
“I passed my physical and I’ll be starting practice. If I get through it without another injury and play well, I’ll make it to the preseason games. That will be my final hurdle to stay on the team this year.”
“That’s wonderful, Quentin; I’m so happy for you and proud of you. I told you not to worry, that you’re in excellent condition.”
“Thank God, you were right and I’ll try to relax. I’m sorry I couldn’t reach you Wednesday night. I hope you didn’t worry about me.”
“Of course, I worried. I love you.”
Recalling how Daniel had died, he realized how dismayed she must have been at not hearing from him as promised. “I should have driven to a pay phone and called so you wouldn’t worry. My housekeeper had the repair men here when I reached home and I got tied up with them. Did you try to call and discovered the problem?”
“I tried to phone but couldn’t get your number; it’s unlisted.”
“Grab a pencil and paper right now so I can give it to you. I picked up a new answering machine today, so you can leave a message if I’m not home.”
“Ready,” Rachel said, and jotted down his number.
“So, what else have you been doing since I left?”
Rachel told him about her confrontation at the airport with Todd.
“That sorry snake! I should’ve known he’d pull a stunt like that and warned you. Next time, you won’t go to the airport with me and be subjected to such abuse. I’m sorry, Rachel.”
“Is it always like that; I mean, with reporters?”
“Not always. Most of them are nice and cooperative. It’s those tabloid reporters you have to worry about; they’re all like Todd Hardy. They’ll pounce on you anywhere and everywhere. I’ve even had one try to corner me in the men’s room and another one in a store’s dressing room while I was wearing only my briefs and socks. I’ve had them go through my trash at home and in hotels. If it happens to you again, just push past him and keep saying, No comment. And speaking of cunning snakes, how is Janet?” He chuckled.
“As awful as usual, but I’m not letting her bother me much.”
“After we marry and we’re living here, we won’t have to deal with the Todds and Janets of the world anymore.”
“That sounds marvelous, Quentin.”
“Which part?”
“All of it, but especially the marrying and living together. I love you and miss you so much. It seems as if you’ve been gone for ages.”
“I love you and miss you, too. When can you come to visit me?”
“Not for a while. You have practice and I have to finish my projects and commitments. Besides, you have to concentrate on practice and the preseason games; you’ll need all of your strength and stamina for them. I don’t mind; this is important to you, so it’s important to me. We’ll have the rest of our lives to spend together.”
“I’m happy you see it that way, Rachel. You’re the kindest, most generous, understanding, and thoughtful person I know. Lordy, I’m lucky. I guess we’ll have to settle for phone calls until September.”
“Hearing your voice isn’t as good as seeing you, but it helps.”
“Would it help if I gave you a ring and we made an announcement about our future plans? Or do you think that would call too much attention to you while we’re separated? I don’t want those media dogs sniffing at your door and trying to get information about me.”
“I think it’s best to wait until your situation is settled. And it won’t be much longer. By staying busy, six months will pass quickly. Have you spoken to Bill about your trip here?”
“Yes, and he and his group have dropped Augusta as a possible site. To prevent offending anyone, he’s sent explanations and thank yous to the people I met with and who helped me gather the information. He’s even sending you a surprise.”
“That’s nice of him but unnecessary. I had fun working with you.”
“I had more than fun working with you. I’m glad he asked me to do the scouting there for him or we wouldn’t have been reunited. I’m the one who should be sending him a gift of gratitude instead of cashing his check. Speaking of earning money, a collector’s company has offered me a contract for selling autographs and signed items. Some of the baseball players have earned big bucks selling autographs, so I figured, why not cash in on my name and fame while they’re still worth something?”
“Congratulations, Quentin; that’s exciting and well deserved; you are a star, a living legend. I want to get one of everything to save for Alex.”
“I’ll make sure you do. If it goes well, it should pay for the house renovations. I spoke with Scott this afternoon and everything is on go for late September. You are coming with him, aren’t you? Becky, too.”
“Sounds wonderful to me. Of course, we won’t have much privacy with a friend along,” she hinted in a suggestive tone.
“We’ll figure out some way to elude the Coopers when necessary.”
“Ah, yes, I had forgotten you’re skilled in that area. And in others.”
“Don’t you go getting me hot and bothered this far away from you.”
Rachel laughed again. “I hope I always have that effect on you, near or far. That’s what you do to me if I only think about you or see your picture.”
“In that case, I should have wallpapered your house with my pictures so you’d think about me constantly.”
“You don’t have to worry about me having a drifting eye.”
“Me, either. Well, I best let you go; it’s getting late, and I have to rest up for what’s ahead. It’s gonna be tough.”
“You take care of yourself and don’t get hurt. I’ll talk to you soon.”
“Tomorrow night?”
“I’m going to the opera with the Coopers and Brimsfords at seven.”
“And I’ll be out most of the day, so I’ll call you on Saturday.”
“I have the church bake
and attic sale from one to five, but I’ll be home before and after it.”
“Always busy and helping others. You’re a wonder, Rachel Gaines. I’ll call you Saturday evening. I love you. ‘Bye.”
“I love you. Good night.”
* * *
On Friday, Rachel ran errands during the morning, including a trip to the printers to select and order announcements of Karen and David’s marriage.
That afternoon she worked on her novel and she became so engrossed that she had to rush to get ready for her evening at the opera and dinner with her friends. After noticing the time, she showered, donned an ivory lace dress with a matching silk slip underdress, and did a swift grooming and makeup.
When the Coopers arrived to pick her up, she learned that the Brimsfords were joining them at Bell Auditorium and that Keith Haywood was with Becky and Scott.
Becky came inside for a minute to explain the situation. “I’m sorry about surprising you like this, Rach, but you didn’t answer the phone when I tried to call to warn you. Keith was going with the Zimmermans but they had to cancel on him today because of family illness. Scott saw him at the club this afternoon and asked Keith to go with us. I didn’t know about it until Scott came home at five. I hope you don’t mind and, honestly, we aren’t setting you up with him tonight.”
“Don’t worry, as long as Keith knows we aren’t on a date. I don’t want him to get the wrong idea.”
“Scott explained to him that you’re seeing somebody regularly who’s out of town, so it’s only a friendly evening.” Becky’s gaze swept over Rachel’s appearance. “You look terrific; I love that outfit, very classy and flattering. Well, we’d better go or we’ll be late.”
Keith had gotten out of the BMW to meet Rachel and assist the two women with car doors.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Rachel,” he said sincerely. “Scott and Becky speak highly of you. It was kind of him to rescue and include me tonight.”
“It’s nice to meet you, Keith, and I’m glad we could be helpful. It would have been a shame to miss the opera or to go alone.”
En route, the four got better acquainted. They talked about Keith’s move to Augusta and partnership in Newton Thomas’s law firm. They talked about their children—he had two by a previous marriage that ended four years ago—and about local happenings.
As they chatted, Rachel noticed Keith’s reaction to her. During their introductions, the tall man’s green gaze had glowed with interest and his mellow voice had revealed interest. Becky had not exaggerated the newcomer’s looks: Keith was handsome, and well-built, with good manners and an outgoing personality. He appeared to be younger than his forty-nine years, and not a hair on his brown head was gray. He had a fantastic tan from participating in many outdoor sports, which were mentioned during their conversation, and it enhanced his white teeth and a sexy smile. The lawyer, she knew, was from a prominent Macon family and old money, but he was not conceited about his status, or wealth. He was genial and charming without being forward or flirtatious. It was doubtful Keith Haywood had any trouble snaring women’s interest or getting dates; that made her curious about why he had planned to go to the opera without a companion tonight. Perhaps, she reasoned, he only wanted to relax without having to entertain a date.
As the evening progressed into dinner at Michael’s Restaurant after the opera, Rachel and the others were unaware of the man observing them in stealth and taking furtive pictures and notes.
When they reached Rachel’s house, Keith walked her to the door, shook her hand, and said, “I had a wonderful time tonight, the best since I arrived in Augusta; in fact, the best in a long time. Thank you, Rachel, for a relaxing and fun evening. If you…part ways with the man you’re currently seeing, please give me a call; I’d like to see you again.”
“Thank you, Keith; that’s very nice and flattering. I enjoyed myself, too, but I am committed elsewhere and happy about it.”
“He’s lucky he found you first. Good night and thanks again.”
Rachel went inside, touched by the man’s words and respectful behavior. She was relieved she hadn’t met the lawyer and started seeing him before Quentin’s return, as Keith was appealing and charming. She had no doubt Quentin would have stolen her heart again, but she might have hurt Keith by dropping him for the quarterback, or refused to see Quentin to avoid being cruel to Keith. She was glad things had worked out as they had, and hoped Keith found a good woman.
Saturday following the combination church bake and attic sale for the homeless shelter, Rachel returned to work on her novel.
When Quentin phoned later, she didn’t tell him about Janet’s sly remarks about what a nice-looking couple she and Keith made and how Rachel should grab the excellent prospect fast, but she did tell him about her day’s tasks and her evening out last night.
“I forgot to tell you I’m a jealous man,” he jested. “I wish I were there to protect my interest and I’m glad you discouraged his.”
“You don’t have to worry, because your interest is well guarded and safe. I love and want only you, Quentin Rawls. But,” she added, “it is flattering to know you’re jealous. You make certain my interest is just as safe out there, on and off the playing field.”
“I can assure you that nothing and no one will come between us and I’ll take good care of myself for our honeymoon.”
“An excellent precaution, Mr. Rawls, because you’ll need all the strength, stamina, and health you can muster to take care of me later. I’m working up a tremendous appetite.”
“So am I, and we won’t be disappointed. What’s on your agenda for this week?”
“Changing the subject so you won’t get aroused so far away from me?”
He chuckled. “Of course. Don’t forget, I’m skilled in self-defense.”
“Is it working?”
“Nope, but I’ll keep trying until I see you again.”
“So will I, but it’s a difficult task. As to my schedule, I have to take flowers to our church’s shut-ins tomorrow afternoon, but I’ll be home by five. Monday, Jen, Becky, and I are having lunch. We’re going to a bridal shower for a friend’s daughter that night. Wednesday, I have my Community Outreach meeting, and that woman’s club sale is still on for the Civic Center on Saturday from ten to five.”
“I take it Janet and Dianne found somebody to handle it for them.”
“Yes, but they’re still annoyed with me for refusing to take charge. Actually, I hope everything goes well; it’s for a good cause. I only wish their hearts were in the right place.”
“I doubt either of them will ever change. Are you making progress on the book?”
“The first draft is almost finished. Then I’ll have to polish it. Submission is the scary part.”
“Let me know when you’re ready for me to connect you with Jim.”
“I will, and I’m glad you’re so supportive.”
“You’ll succeed, so don’t worry. We’ll all be proud of you for trying, whether you get published or not; but you will, I’m sure.”
“Thanks for the vote of confidence; I’ll try my best. So, what’s on your agenda next week?”
“Practice, practice, and more practice, tormenting the old body.”
“That’s fine, as long as you don’t damageshall we say?—vital parts.”
They shared laughter and chatted another twenty minutes.
“I love you, Rachel. I’ll call tomorrow night.”
“Good-bye, Quentin, and I love you.”
Rachel talked with Quentin on Friday, as she had done almost every night that week. She told him about receiving a gold bracelet from Bill Effingham in appreciation for her help on his project. She related news of additional collections for the Georgia flood victims who were still recovering from their devastating losses last month. She told him she had spoken to Evelyn and the grandchildren that morning.
“I’m turning in early tonight to rest up for tomorrow. It’s going to be a long and busy day.” Hopefully t
oo hectic for Janet to harass me.
“Don’t exhaust yourself, woman; take plenty of breaks.”
“I will,” she agreed.
When Becky arrived at eight o’clock Saturday morning, Rachel said, “You’re early; I thought you said you’d pick me up at nine, but I’m almost ready. Uh, oh, I know that look; you’re angry. What’s wrong?”
“Have you seen or heard about this, Rach?” she asked, shaking a copy of Augusta Now magazine. “I picked it up yesterday while I was shopping, but I didn’t read it until last night, too late to phone you. How could that lowlife print such trash or the magazine allow it?”
“What are you talking about?”
Becky flipped open the magazine and held it out to Rachel, who took it and gaped at the pictures. “Sit down and read it. I’ll keep quiet until you finish. In fact, I’ll grab a cup of coffee.”
Rachel walked to the sofa while Becky headed for the kitchen. She looked at pictures of her and Quentin on dates, and pictures of her with Keith last Friday night. The article talked about Quentin’s recent trip to Augusta and the reason for his visit. It said the deal was off because the town wasn’t considered a good location for a new team. It was written in such a manner as to suggest Augusta was viewed unworthy and inferior to Quentin Rawls and the investment group he had scouted for last month. The words used implied that the town had lost a wonderful opportunity because of Quentin’s dislike and disrespect for it.
The article went on to include information about what had seemed to be a promising romance between Rachel and the quarterback, but one that couldn’t survive Quentin’s absence. “It appears to this writer as if the widow of Daniel Gaines isn’t suffering over their separation since she has been seen around town with handsome bachelor and lawyer, Keith Haywood.” Beside those remarks were two pictures of her and Keith, smiling and talking at the opera and at the restaurant. Worse, Todd Hardy’s following comments were: “Let’s hope the Dallas Cowboys don’t dump Rawls as quickly and easily as it appears Mrs. Gaines has done or he’ll be recovering from two additional injuries in the coming months.” Todd had mentioned Rachel’s charity work and reminded readers of the Gaines family stature. He revealed she had been Quentin’s “tour guide and research assistant,” but apparently “she was unable to persuade him and his group of investors to locate a team here,” though he was “certain Mrs. Gaines gave it her best and untiring efforts during their many days and nights together.”
Anything For Love Page 24
