“I refuse to even think about that. I know she said our marriage was over but I can’t accept that. I just can’t! I want her back in my life!”
“Why? Why do you want her to come back?” she pressed.
Surprised by her line of questioning Marcus looked at her knowing expression as she waited for his response.
“Why?” he exclaimed incredulously.
“I want her back because I love her, because I want to build a life for her, with her! On the way up here I was even thinking about how I could help her to realize some of her dreams right here on Derrien Island. You know we have been moving toward having more live music in-house, well she is an excellent singer. In fact, just before we got married she was in-line for an international contract. I was thinking that perhaps she could sing here at the restaurant again, something anything. I want to encourage her to release her artwork, I just want to see her happy again!” said Marcus now rising from his seat once more pacing the floor.
Lucinda considered Marcus’ reply carefully and was silent for a while before she responded.
“Yes, I must agree with you that she has a fabulous voice and a wonderful artist’s talent,” replied Lucinda. “Look Marcus, I cannot tell you what to do but I think you should take some time off and if you need to go and see your wife, do so. You are in no condition to run these restaurants or to conduct our business deal. Take some time off and come back when you are more clear about everything,” advised Lucinda.
“Lucinda, I can’t just pick up and leave here and take an indefinite vacation,” hedged Marcus.
“Marcus, you must be the most pig-headed man or I am hallucinating? Don’t you see? In one breath you say you love Natasha and you even can come up with a plan to solve her problems but let me ask you something. What are you prepared to leave behind for her?”
“Leave behind?”
“Yes Marcus. Leave behind! I hear you slip so easily into being the owner of this restaurant and it is clear that you are an excellent writer. But this restaurant will function if you are not here for a few weeks. Your wife left you because as you said, you tend to see things from your point of view only. I think it is time that you begin to see things from hers!”
“But I do, that is why I want to help her in any way I can!” argued Marcus sounding agonized.
“Have you ever considered that she doesn’t want your help? I know that may be difficult for you to consider right now but think about it!”
Marcus stared at Lucinda incredulously, unable to respond to her last statement. Had Lucinda lost her mind? Of course Natasha needed his help. That was part of the reason he was in her life wasn’t it? What was with all these cryptic questions anyway? First Sheldon and now Lucinda too!
Listen, I will make this a bit harder on you to light a fire under you to act quickly. I know we are discussing the sale of my restaurant so I must tell you that I have another investor from Italy who is willing to pay almost double what you are offering me for the place. He and his wife are retiring to the island and from all reports they are a beautiful couple who will uphold the loving legacy of my restaurant. I wanted to sell it to you and Natasha because I knew how much you loved each other and I knew that the restaurant would be in good hands. But if you are going to separate and both be stubborn about this, I will sell Lucinda’s to the DiMinoglio’s instead. I am going to give you four months to resolve this thing with your wife. That is as long as I think I can hold off the other couple. Marcus, I know this seems unfair and it is hard and confusing but don’t give up on her just yet! Go and save your marriage! That is your priority and when you do that the other things you want will fall into place,” said Lucinda feeling a twinge of guilt at seeing Marcus’ stunned expression.
Marcus looked at Lucinda not believing the calculating ultimatum that was just delivered to him. He could lose the restaurant if he did not reconcile with Natasha? Was Lucinda really serious? He opened his mouth to argue but was halted as she raised her hand.
“Don’t say another word, and don’t argue; you know what you need to do! I look forward to seeing you and hearing your news in four month’s time,” she replied standing to her feet with difficulty and exited closing the door quietly. She knew Marcus expected a softer hand from her and he did deserve it but she wanted him to use the same fire that he had in pursuing his business goals to pursue his wife. It was obvious from his explanation that Natasha needed to know that she was someone to him and that he valued her too.
Chapter 8
Wednesday, March 22 Present Day
“Hi good afternoon, when is the next flight out to Atlanta,” asked Marcus as he stood in front of the desk in his study at home.
After his conversation with Lucinda on Sunday he had taken a few days to puzzle over the outcome of their conversation and to think about what he could say to Natasha when he finally found her. But even after two days, he was no closer to an explanation or apology he liked and he realized that he was just stalling. The truth was that he did not want to be rejected again and Lucinda’s words had really challenged him. Why did he have to give up anything anyway? Couldn’t they just add what Natasha needed so they could both get what they wanted?
The truth was that although he recognized what had triggered Natasha’s reaction to him on many levels he was not prepared to come to terms with what that could mean for him. Would he be willing to sacrifice anything in his life to be with her again? Those questions had filled his mind for two days without answers. He did not want to go there offering her more of the same life, but he believed that owning Lucinda’s restaurant and having her art gallery there would be a great start for her. It would be something that she could be proud of.
The agent on the line said that they had a few open seats leaving on a flight that night at 7:00 p.m. He booked a seat quickly and began packing a suitcase. That gave him only four more hours to organize final details at the bank and get to the airport.
Reaching into the cell phone case clipped on to his belt he decided to call Sheldon to update him on what was happening. Unable to get through to his friend, he sent him a brief text message outlining his plans and asked him to check on the house and to start his car while he was away. Sheldon knew where to find the keys to the house and he trusted him with his life and most prized possessions.
Four hours later, as he arrived at the airport and stood in place in the check-in line he heard a heavy bag fall to the floor beside him. Looking to his right to identify the source of the sound he saw Sheldon standing there with a passport in hand.
“I’m not going to let you go alone bro. I just want to give you some support because you don’t know what you will find there! I’m not about to let you go up there and get yourself into any trouble with the law,” said Sheldon firmly.
“Sheldon, it’s not as though I am going to do something stupid, I am just going to get my wife back. Besides I need you here.”
“To start your car? To watch a house with a top of the line security system, which I recommended and installed myself? No, Marcus, you need a friend more. I remember how you helped me out when Shauna and I broke up two years ago. It really helped me to pull through so I am coming with you. ”Consider it as my returning the favour.”
Marcus shook his head and laughed. Many people were shocked at how close he and Sheldon were because to see them on the volleyball court, they were always ribbing and challenging one another like sworn enemies. But the truth was that between those moments, it was times just like this where looking out for each other had solidified their friendship into a brotherhood.
“What about your job?” asked Marcus. “This is an indefinite trip. I don’t know how long I will be away!”
“I had some vacation time owing to me, for some time now so I‘m good for now, besides I am hoping that I won’t have to be there for long. You know, that we find Natasha quickly and you guys get this thing sorted out quickly.”
“I hope so too. Look thanks Sheldon.”
“Do
n’t mention it. Before you get all sappy on me let’s check in, we’ve got a plane to catch.
March 30th, Atlanta, Georgia
Natasha just repeat the last couple of bars for me”, said the studio recording director.
Natasha was on cloud nine! Today was the second day of the recording of her first single, “Fire Heart” and her voice could not be in better form. She had spent three hours already in the studio and the crew were amazed at her vocal dexterity. She was getting along with everyone and being in the studio was a lot of fun. This was exactly how she pictured her life could be for many years and now it was a reality. The only thing that was different was that she wanted to share it with her best friend. Well, her former best friend anyway. She had always hoped that this would be something that she could share with Marcus but whenever she brought up the subject of them emigrating she got the same cold response and the reminder of his family legacy at Manderley, how much he was needed to run the restaurants, how much he loved island life and never wanted to live in a big city again. It was always about him, what he wanted, what he could achieve, but now it was her time and she had decided that although she regretted hurting him she would live her life unapologetically. It was time that she stood up for herself, who she really was inside, instead of trying to fit into the mould everyone else set for her.
Alright Sam, I’ll go back to “wrap me in your arms”, replied Natasha into the microphone.
“Great!” replied Sam.
As Natasha sang out the lyrics to the song, she could literally feel her heart singing along and all the burdens she carried for years falling away from her one by one. So, she just let go and allowed herself to enjoy the moment, swaying her hips to the music and closing her eyes as she stood before the microphone. She pictured herself standing on stages in front of large audiences who would love her music and cheer for more. She saw the coloured lights, smoke, stage effects, dancers and the flash of cameras throughout the crowd. Could all of that be awaiting her? It was just an overwhelming feeling knowing she could share the gift of song with so many other people.
When she finished singing the song, she slowly opened her eyes and saw that the sound engineers were standing in the sound-proof booth nodding their heads in wonder. While she was singing Lucas had also come in and he steepled his hands in front of his mouth before he blew a kiss at her.
Seeing the expressions on the faces of her early fans she decided that this was as good time as any to become accustomed to the gratitude she would receive for her talents. She was not a closet singer anymore. She would not have to beg anyone for a chance to sing least of all her own father or her husband. There would be no more rejection or being made to feel unworthy because of her past mistakes and no more being hidden in Marcus’ shadow. It felt good to be finally appreciated for who she really was.
“Okay, that’s a wrap for today Natasha. We will work on mastering your vocals and blending the effects for the rest of the day, so you are free to leave. There is also a gentleman here who is waiting quite impatiently to see you!” said Sam.
Natasha smiled as she saw Lucas standing there. He had been so supportive in helping her in the two weeks since she had arrived. He helped her to find a really beautiful apartment and had already arranged for her to use one of his town cars until she got one of her own. Taking off the headphones she walked out to see him.
“Hey Lucas!” she said giving him a brief hug.
“You sounded like an angel in there, Natasha. This single is going to launch your career into the stratosphere. I can feel it!” he said.
“Yeah, I really hope so too!” she said wrapping her arms around herself and shuddering with excitement.
“What are your plans for the afternoon?” asked Lucas.
“Well I don’t have any plans right now. We finished recording pretty early and my next appointment is not until around four so I have about three hours to spare.”
“Great, there is something I want to show you!” said Lucas excitedly.
“What is it?” asked Natasha filled with curiosity.
“It’s a surprise!” he replied. “Come let’s go. Sam you have a good afternoon,” he called back to the sound engineer.
“You too,” came the reply.
Lucas took Natasha by the hand and led her out of the studio and into the sunshine outside. At the curb a black Lincoln was waiting driven by his long-time chauffeur Eli.
“Where are you taking me this time Mr. Johnson,” laughed Natasha.
“You will soon see!” he said smirking slightly but not giving any details away.
They both got into the car and after driving for about fifteen minutes they arrived at a park lined with many mature trees.
“Ok we are here!” said Lucas.
“Wow Lucas, it feels so tranquil here,” remarked Natasha as she emerged from the car. “It’s almost as though we aren’t in the city anymore.”
“Welcome to Forsyth Park. I thought we could have lunch here today.” Lucas opened the front door of the car and removed a picnic basket before offering Natasha the crook of his arm.
“Shall we?” he asked.
“How did you know that I would even be available this afternoon? This looks like you’ve been planning this.”
“Well I did not know for sure but I like to be prepared especially where you are concerned Natasha.”
“I see,” she replied thoughtfully.
“I hope you also see that I am still offering you my arm,” he said smiling broadly.
Natasha laughed and slipped her arm into the crook of his and allowed him to lead her on this park adventure. In the distance ahead she saw what appeared to be a towering white fountain which had to be at least thirty feet tall.
Hearing her exclaim, Lucas explained to her that she was looking at the Forsyth Park fountain and that it was a popular spot for couples to come and have their wedding ceremonies or photography sessions.
Natasha admired the exquisite sculptures of what appeared to be angelic mermen blowing water from trumpets held to their mouths.
“Lucas this is such exquisite art. Thank you for bringing me here!”
“It is my pleasure Natasha.”
As they sat down beneath the shade of a nearby oak tree she found that the conversation between them was easy and light and Lucas would listen to her and he always minded the small details. Every time she spoke to him she could not help wondering why Marcus could not do the same for her as well. Why couldn’t the man she really loved listen to her and acknowledge her feelings in this way as well? She was eternally grateful to Lucas for his friendship and she could see that his feelings for her were deep and sincere but the more time she spent with him the more she realized that she needed to bring a firm closure to her old life so that there was no confusion between them.
She had said to Marcus that their relationship was over but she had not contacted any lawyers to initiate drawing up divorce papers. In fact, despite what she had declared she was realizing that she was not prepared as yet for her marriage to be truly finished. Maybe she was being nostalgic or sentimental about this but she had always said to herself that she would get married once in her lifetime and it would be to the love of her life. Maybe in light of all that happened that kind of romantic notion was unrealistic. Also, it would only be a matter of time before her agents at the record company would be inquiring as to the progress of the legal proceedings as well. A lot of money was being invested into the brand that would be known by the world as Natasha.
“Lucas to Natasha, over!” said Lucas mimicking using a walkie talkie.
Blinking with the sudden realization that her mind had drifted off with thoughts of Marcus again, she refocused her attention on the man seated across from her on the lawn.
“I’m sorry Lucas, what did you say?”
“I was saying to you that you look beautiful today in that outfit,” repeated Lucas.
“Thank you!” said Natasha looking away from the deep admiration she sa
w in Lucas’ eyes.
Natasha as an artist always had a flair for colour and design and today she was wearing a red strapless dress that was slightly loose at the top and gathered in at the waist, flaring into a short skirt that reached mid-thigh. On her legs were a pair black leggings and calf-length boots and her hair flowed freely around her shoulders and back.
To Lucas, she looked absolutely stunning and he was having a hard time keeping his promise of only friendship if she continued to look so sensual and tempting. Thought of her already dominated his every waking and dreaming moments. It was as though he was completely enchanted since he ran into her accidentally about six months ago. He wanted nothing more than to erase the disappointment and setbacks she’d experienced and to give her a new life filled with passion and excitement. If he ever met her dumb, jerk of a husband he was sure that he would have more than a few words for him about how to keep a woman like Natasha happy.
“Look Natasha, I know I promised to just be your friend but it is really hard for me. I can’t stop thinking about you and I always find myself trying to come up with new ways and excuses to see you, like today! I know what you said and I know that you still have to finalize the divorce with your husband but I want you to know that I love you and I am always here for you.”
Hearing Lucas openly admit his feelings for her made Natasha realize more than ever that she needed to get her life together. Her career was now coming along but she knew that by now Marcus would have been looking for her and she needed to let him know what was going on. They had to come to some kind of closure. She could not let Lucas think they had any hope of a future together when she had not come to terms with her past. A past that was still very much her present. Not a day went by since she arrived when she did not think of Marcus. The truth was that she missed seeing him, hearing his voice, listening to his stories about what happened at the restaurant or even hearing about the direction his latest novel was taking.
Forgotten Love (Derrien Island Trilogy) Page 10
