Teach Me (The Gems & Gents Series)

by Bolling, Iris

  “It is a pleasure to meet you Mr. Davenport. I’ve read a lot of wonderful things about your work with Habitat for Humanity. I think it’s commendable of you to share your talents with the less fortunate. I hope to be able to do the same one day.”

  It was difficult not to take an instant liking to the child who appeared to be much wiser than her age would allow. “Thank you. But I would think you would have better things to do with your time than to read about me.”

  “I read about everyone Mr. Davenport. I think next to dancing, reading is my most favorite thing in the world.” She did a twirl as she spoke then giggled. The sound was joyous and was a reminder of her age. But that was the only give away. She was a beautiful young girl who looked as if she should be on someone’s stage.

  Zackary had to smile for he was captivated by the child. “How long have you been dancing?”

  “All my life, it seems like,” she replied with a shrug of her shoulders. “I’ll be performing in New York next month and if that goes well I may get a lead in the production when it goes to Europe. Wouldn’t that be wonderful mother?”

  “Yes, it would. But I don’t want you to get your hopes up.”

  “I know,” the light in the child’s eyes dimmed a bit. But in a millisecond it returned. “But I believe we can do it and that’s the first step to success. Isn’t that right Mr. Davenport?”

  “That’s exactly right,” Zack tapped her on the tip of her nose. “And don’t you ever give up on your dream.”

  She smiled brightly, “I won’t.”

  “Would you mind if I spoke to your mother privately for a moment?”

  “Not at all. I’ll wait outside for you. In fact, I’ll be happy to go back to the studio if you two need some time to talk.”

  “No, that’s not necessary. This will only take a moment.” Zack replied as he took Celeste by the elbow and took a few steps away from the child. “I have no idea what game you are playing, but to ensure we are all heading down the right track, let’s clear the fog. We are here to test your daughter, whom I do not believe for one moment is mine. Once the DNA proves that, you and your daughter will be on your way back to Teddy. Do I make myself clear?”

  “Crystal,” Celeste testily stated then walked purposely over to Chanté. “We’re leaving Chanté”

  Chanté looked from Celeste to Zack then back to her mother. As if she knew not to question, she sadly smiled at Zackary. “I’m sorry if I offended you in any way. My father tells me I talk too much and I really do try to control it.” She shrugged her shoulders, “But I like talking to people. Please don’t be upset with my mother because of my actions.”

  The way the child spoke bothered Zack. He reached out and took her hand as she walked away to follow her mother out the door. “Chanté,” he bent down to the child. “You did not do anything to offend me. In fact I rather enjoyed listening to you. So don’t ever stop talking to people.” He stood as he asked, “Does your father take things out on your mother?”

  Celeste walked back through the door, “Come along Chanté!”

  “All the time,” Chanté replied as she followed her mother out the door.

  For a moment Zack was so tempted to turn and go back upstairs and allow the two to leave. But he knew this situation would remain an issue until he had proof that Chanté was not his child. Although, after meeting her, he almost wished she was. Then he looked up at her mother and murmured, “Almost.” He stormed out of the door, took both Celeste and Chanté by the elbow. “This way ladies,” he said as he led them to his car.

  L

  Joshua received the message from Zack that he needed to locate his mother. Unfortunately, he had been out of the country when the message arrived. As soon as he returned, he checked on the last location for Ann and was surprised at what he found as he began to shadow her. He wasn’t alone.

  L

  I don’t know who this woman is that stays on Zack’s property, but I can’t allow her to interfere with my plans. Zack thinks he’s the man with everybody talking about the open house at Davenport Estates and the damn Businessman of the Year nominations. Hmm, that would be a good time to bring him down. The media will definitely be covering the event and I’m sure his good friend the Fire Chief Hasting will be there. Ha-Ha-Ha, wouldn’t that be interesting to have Zackary up one day – as the man and disgraced the next as the greedy son-of-a-bitch he is. Yeah, now what’s the best way to ensure he is the target of the investigation?

  Chapter 23

  Diamond walked into the foyer of Marco’s restaurant, which was owned by Pearl’s friends Marco and Roz Marable. Because of their international cuisine, the restaurant had the reputation of catering to an upscale clientele such as CEO’s, entertainers and politicians that have a taste for something different. In fact, the last time she was at the establishment was with Pearl and their movie star brother-in-law, Blake Thornton. It definitely wasn’t a place Diamond frequented regularly. Therefore, it surprised her when one of the owners, Rosaline Marable walked into the plush foyer and greeted her by name.

  “Diamond,” Roz extended her hand. “Welcome to Marco’s.”

  “Hello Roz,” Diamond replied as she shook the woman’s hand. “Thank you. I’m supposed to be meeting someone.”

  “Yes, Grant Hutchison. He’s been seated and is waiting for you.” She turned to the hostess at the front desk. “I’ll seat Ms. Lassiter.” Then turned back to her, “Follow me.” She opened the double doors, and the island oasis interior captured you the moment you stepped inside. If you wanted an island escape during the mid-day or anytime, this was the place to come. “Your sister-in-law is in my kitchen bugging Marco to try every dish that is ordered.” Roz mentioned as she escorted Diamond to the table.

  “You can always send her to the table to get her out of your kitchen.”

  Laughing, Roz stopped as they reached Grant. “I may take you up on that,” she stated as she pointed to the seat. “I’ll give you two a moment to look at the menu, while I get Cynthia out of my kitchen.”

  “Thank you,” Diamond replied as Roz walked away. Grant had stood and was assisting with her chair. She thanked him then took her seat.

  “Thank you for coming,” he replied as he retook his seat. “I took the liberty of ordering an appetizer and drink for you. I hope that’s acceptable.”

  Diamond watched as his smile radiated around the room. “Mr. Hutchison you can put the megawatt weapon of yours away. I have six brothers and I know all their stunts.” She grinned. “So what drink did you order?”

  “I’ll put away my weapon if you put those legs under cover. What I would give to measure them from thigh to toe.” She sat back and crossed her legs. “I have to say my imagination has been running rampant with the things I could do with them.” He held his hand up before she could reply. “However, as much as I would love to tease you a little longer, that’s not the reason, we are here—tonight.”

  His emphasis on the word “tonight” caused Diamond to pause for a second. “Let’s be very clear, Mr. Hutchison, this is a business dinner. If this is some kind of come on, you’ve got the wrong girl and the wrong game.

  “Well, Ms. Lassiter, this meeting really is about business, however, I wouldn’t be a man if I didn’t notice a good pair of legs and a pretty smile. And make no mistake, I’m all man. Okay?” Diamond smiled.

  Diamond held his eyes for a moment and sighed. “Okay, so tell me about Regenerations and how I can help.”

  He sat forward, “Well I think the marketing strategy you used for Davenport Estates would work wonders for Regenerations. It was high tech. The target market was clear and the outreach was sensational. We need that to get Regenerations off the ground. There are a number of investors and the construction company is literally donating their time. We are not anticipating making a dime off of this project. Our payment will be people living in affordable, safe homes. Not to mention limiting the number of vacant buildings along that stretch of Clay Street.”

 
“Have you spoken with developers? You have to remember, it’s not just about a few buildings. It’s about the creation of a new community, with convenient shopping, day care, recreation for children or teens. That’s what makes Davenport Estates unique. It’s a total package.”

  Nodding his head, Grant replied, “We have spoken with a number of developers about designs, however, none that are willing to donate the time and skills to the project.”

  “Have you spoken with Xavier? He has tons of ideas about community development.”

  Grant sat back with a confused look, but did not speak his mind. His first priority tonight was to get Diamond onboard the project, then he would deal with the Davenport brothers. “No, I did not get an opportunity to speak with him or his brother Saturday night. I hope to have an opportunity to speak with them at the Business Man of the Year dinner.”

  Diamond pulled out her cell. “Let’s set up a meeting for you to talk with Xavier. He loves projects like this. I’m sure he would be more than willing to help out if he can.”

  Grant looked up as Diamond sent her message, to see Zackary Davenport, with a woman and a little girl enter the restaurant. He must have had the signals mixed up. The night of the open house he would have sworn it was Zackary that Diamond was involved with. However, she had not mentioned his name not once this evening. It was the youngest brother she was praising.

  L

  After leaving the doctor’s office where the DNA test was taken, Chanté asked about the Center for the Arts. After taking her for a tour of the facilities, she noticed the restaurant across the street and indicated she was hungry. The look on Celeste’s face was telling. Something wasn’t right. What, he did not want to know, but the least he could do was feed them both. Fortunately, the place did not have a line outside the door. But it was a week night, so he thought they may be able to get a table. They were lucky, a table was available. Maybe he would be able to get to the bottom of why Celeste was there. He knew as well as she that Chanté was not his daughter, but she was up to something and he had to get to the bottom of it before he could open up to Diamond.

  “Well ladies, what will it be?” Zack asked as he took his seat.

  “What’s good?” Chanté beamed as a waitress approached the table.

  “Why everything child,” the woman smiled brightly as she spoke in a heavy Jamaican accent. “My son is a culinary genius. He can make hot dogs taste like a porter house steak.”

  Chanté smiled at the woman. “You have a really nice accent. Where are you from?”

  “Why Jamaica, of course child. The most beautiful island, with oceans so clear you can see the bottom. Now what would you like to fill that tummy of yours?”

  Chanté stole a look at her mother before she replied.

  Zack caught the exchange. “Do you like steak?” he asked Chanté “Or are you one of those girls that has to watch her figure?” he teased.

  “Heck no, Mr. Davenport.” She waved him off. “I can eat a horse right about now.”

  “Chanté” Celeste chastised her daughter.

  “Well now, I don’t think we have any horse meat in the house,” the waitress laughed.

  “Why don’t you bring us three of those porter house steaks you mentioned with some sweet potatoes fries and a salad.” Zack took the menus and handed them back to the waitress.

  “Will do. And what would you like to drink?”

  “A big pitcher of sweet tea.” Chanté replied grinning.

  “Sweet tea it shall be.” The waitress walked away from the table.

  Zack saw a flash of something in Celeste’s eyes he had never seen before and as quick as it appeared it disappeared--shame. But what did she have to be ashamed of? “So, Chanté tell me about your last dance recital.”

  “Ah man, it was awesome. I am very proud to say that it was my performance that earned me the audition in New York. I just have to get there.” She solemnly replied, then quickly perked back up. “But I know if I make it to New York, I’ll get the role and then I’ll make enough money for Mommy and I to go to Europe.”

  The waitress placed the pitcher of tea on the table. “One pitcher of sweet tea. I’ll check on your steaks.” Then she walked away.

  “If I had a young daughter as pretty as you, I’m not sure I would let her go to New York or Europe. How does your father feel about that?”

  “What’s important is Chanté’s talent,” Celeste interrupted. “I have no idea where she gets it from. You know I have two left feet Zack.” She laughed.

  “I know no such thing.” He gave Celeste a warning glare.

  She clearly ignored it, “You should come to see Chanté perform next week at The School of Performing Arts. She has the lead in the production.”

  “Oh yes, you should come Mr. Davenport. Then you can see for yourself just how talented I am.”

  “And modest,” Zack smiled. He couldn’t help it, the child’s enthusiasm was contagious.

  “I have to believe in myself Mr. Davenport. If I don’t, who will?”

  “Your parents.”

  “Yes, you’re right. My mom will always believe in me. Right mom?” she shrugged against her mom’s shoulder.

  “Always.” She smiled at her daughter.

  “Ooh the food is here.” Chanté clapped. “It smells soooo good,” she beamed as the plate was set in front of her.

  “Dig in,” Zack’s command did not take long to be obeyed, Chanté had begun eating before the two words were out of his mouth.

  “Chanté did you forget your manners. Say grace.”

  “Oh, I’m sorry Mommy.” She bowed her head and quickly said her grace then continued with the meal.

  Zack watched as Celeste ate slowly, but clearly wanted to go full force the way Chanté was doing. It wasn’t hard for him to come to the conclusion that they had not had a good meal in a minute. “Eat your food Celeste and when you are done, we’re going to talk.”

  Celeste looked up into knowing eyes. It didn’t matter. She was going through with her plan. Sensing Zack was about to ask about her husband again she quickly changed the subject. “Zack I’m surprised some lucky woman hasn’t snatched you up yet. Why aren’t you married with a house filled with children? I know how much you love them.”

  “The woman I planned to have that house full of children with decided to marry someone else with more money.”

  Celeste closed her eyes against the words that were clearly meant to hurt, but now was not the time for emotions. She had a goal and she was not leaving until she got what she needed from Zack. “Well, she was a fool and I’m sure she is not afraid to admit that.”

  “It’s no longer important, I’ve moved on.”

  She nodded, “I thought I knew with whom, but I see she is having dinner with a very handsome man across the room.” Zack turned and was stunned to see Diamond. “That has all the markings of a romantic date. The wine, the easy banter and the smooth smiles.” She shrugged her shoulders. “I guess I was wrong about you and her.”

  L

  The meal was delicious, the wine was divine and the company was wonderful. This was exactly what Diamond needed after the weekend she had experienced. “You have to tell me where the wine is from, it was magnificent.”

  Grant smiled, “Magnificent. I’ll let my brother know. He has a winery outside of Hanover. This is his latest vintage. It is a Marco exclusive.”

  “You mean you can’t get it anywhere else?”

  “No. He made this for a woman he fell madly in love with. When things did not work out he stopped making it and sealed the recipe away. He then sold the entire collection to Marco. Very few people know about it and those that do, pay a hefty sum to have a bottle.”

  “Really?” She gave him a suspicious look. “Are you pulling my leg?”

  He shook his head, “Not at all. Scout’s honor.”

  “What happened to the woman?” she asked curiously.

  “She left the country. It was too difficult for her to choose between R
aphael and her family.”

  Diamond sat forward, “What about your brother?”

  “Hmm, do you believe in the theory that there is only one true love in everyone’s life?”

  Diamond sighed, “Yes, I do.”

  “Well, I think Shadi was Raphael’s one true love. I don’t think he will ever get over her. He still longs for her to this day.”

  Diamond’s mind was now wondering. She believed with every fiber in her body that Zackary was her one true love. Was she condemned to a life of longing like Grant’s brother? “How long has it been?”

  “About ten years now.” Grant noticed as soon as the light conversation mood changed. He also noticed the moment Zackary Davenport turned and recognized Diamond sitting at the table with him. A sudden chill ran down his back as Davenport stared almost in disbelief. The woman sitting at the table with Davenport seemed to take a little joy in pointing out Diamond to Zackary. The action made him immediately dislike the woman. He could not stand catty women. However, he had to push that to the back of his mind as Zackary Davenport made his way over to their table.

  “I believe you are about to have a visitor.” Grant whispered.

  Diamond saw his lips move, but her mind was still on Zackary and Raphael and she did not hear what he said.

  “Good evening,” Zackary greeted them in a foreboding tone. “Ms. Lassiter may I have a moment?”

  Diamond looked up to see Grant standing and for a minute wondered why until she heard Zack’s voice. The first look was one of surprise. Was her imagination that strong to conjure him up? But the look on his face was rather intimidating if not hostile. Then he had the nerve to just walk away. What is his problem? She wondered.

  “I believe you have been summoned.” Grant smirked.

  The look of irritation formed quickly. How dare he command her to do anything after the tears she shed over the weekend because of him? She chose to keep her seat. “He’ll realize I’m not behind him at some point.” She picked up her glass.