Solid Stone: Choices

by E. G. Patrick

  Bruce’s squeaky voice sounds adorable. “Will you push me?” He points to the swing set.

  Adam smiles. “Sure, how high do you like to go?”

  “As high as the sky,” he sounds excited.

  Jane and I watch them for a moment. Handing her the wine I’d brought, she offers me a drink. “I think water for now is good. I’ll have wine with dinner later.” She smiles.

  “What about Adam?” she asks.

  At the swing set, just as he gives another push, I call out, “Do you want a drink?”

  He looks quickly in my direction. “No, I’m good right now.” Brianna, or Bree, as I call her, waddles over to me and I scoop her up, and continue watching Adam push her brother in the swing.

  Jane taps me on the shoulder. “I’ve put a pitcher of juice and some water on the table over there. You seem to have these two under control. I’m going to start dinner and will be back out soon. If you need me, just call.” I shake my head still lost in the vision of Adam and Bruce.

  Bruce calls out, “I want some juice.” Adam slows down the swing and holds it while Bruce slides off of it. Bree’s head rests on my shoulder, she’s fallen asleep.

  The two walk hand in hand to the table. Watching the two of them like that makes my insides feel very warm. I sit down with Bree still in my arms. Adam pours juice for Bruce and then looks at me. I say, “Water for me please.”

  “You seem to be a natural,” he says putting the glass down in front of me.

  “She’s just tired.” I must admit holding her like this feels really good.

  Jane comes back, joining us at the table. “Do you want me to take her?”

  “No, I’m fine, I don’t mind.”

  Bruce looks up at Adam. “Wanna play trucks?”

  “Sure,” he follows Bruce into the yard, picking up one of the trucks sprawled across the lawn.

  It’s just Jane and me now, Bree’s still fast asleep. “If you need help in the kitchen, just let me know.”

  “Nope, I’m good. I’ve got a roast in the oven and the vegetables are in pots ready to go. Adam’s really good with Bruce.”

  “Yes, he is. I’m surprised, he’s not around kids at all. He seems to be really enjoying himself.”

  “Are you really just friends? The way you look at each other says different. Remember, I was married for ten years.”

  I come clean. “He’s my ex-boyfriend, but we’re only friends now. It’s a long story.”

  “I have lots of time and he’s occupied. If you want to talk I’m a good listener.” She’s opened the door and I walk straight through it, and tell her the entire story; all of it! Jane’s experienced and a little older than me and Ann. She’s in her mid-thirties and always seems to be sensible, so I feel comfortable telling her everything. It’s a welcome relief actually. I glance at Adam and Bruce every now and then as I tell all. She just listens, nodding her head every once in a while.

  When I’m finished she takes a deep breath. “You’ve been through the ringer, so have you tried to work it out?” I shake my head no. “Well, I can’t believe someone with a thriving business and busy life like his would just hang out for the sake of it, do you?”

  “He’s been clear about being friends only. I was crushed at the time. This morning was so hard.”

  “This morning?” She hesitates and then gets it. “Oh, you spent the night together.”

  “We did, but it wasn’t planned.”

  She smiles. “Don’t worry, I’m not judging. He’s gorgeous. I’d have found a way to do the same if I were in your shoes.” We both laugh. “I have to say, it seems to me you’re more than just friends. You two need to figure out a way to get back to where you left off, before it’s too late.”

  “I really hurt him, so I can’t blame him for feeling the way he does.” Bruce and Adam are coming back to the table, which ends our conversation. He hands Bruce his juice and watches him finish it before taking the cup and placing it back on the table.

  “Did you have fun, Bruce?” I ask.

  The squeaky voice says, “Yep!”

  The radio voice says, “Bruce may end up in the construction business. He’s got a creative mind, that’s for sure.”

  Jane smiles and nods her head. “He likes to build things and then tear them down.” We all look over at a pile of dirt that’s been overturned, and all laugh. Jane gets up, lifting Bree out of my arms. She says, “Dinner will be ready in thirty minutes or so. I need to wake her up gently so she’s not cranky. Come on Bruce, let’s wash your hands.” Bruce reluctantly gets up, looking back at Adam.

  We’re alone now. “So you seemed to be enjoying yourself?”

  “You know, if you’d told me I’d be pushing a kid in a swing and playing with trucks and dirt, I would’ve said you’re crazy.” He laughs. “It’s was fun and I didn’t think about work the entire time.”

  “I’m glad you came then. You need to be more relaxed.”

  “Mmm, that’s something to seriously consider. Should we go inside and help?”

  “That didn’t take long, you’ve barely sat down?” My lips curl into a big smile. “You’re right though, we should help.” He smiles as he gets up and I follow him inside. Adam sets the table while I keep the kids occupied.

  The five of us sit down to a lovely dinner of roast beef, mashed potatoes, green beans, and carrots. The adults have wine and the kids have juice. Bree sits beside her mother in her highchair. The atmosphere is warm and homey. This is a real family dinner and I just love it. After dessert and another round of ‘Happy Birthday’, Adam and I clean up before we leave.

  §

  It’s almost seven when I get home. Adam’s driver is waiting for him outside the apartment so I know he won’t be coming in. I sigh in my head.

  He takes hold of both my hands. “Thanks for letting me crash your plans today. Jane and her kids are great. I felt like part of her family.”

  “I’m glad you came. Yes, Jane does that, makes you feel so welcome. Thanks again for yesterday. It was amazing.”

  He smiles. “I should go. I’ll have the loft ready for you, remember to call me.”

  Nodding, I take my hands back. “I only need the keys. I can take care of the rest myself. Oh, when do you want first and last month’s rent?”

  “Whenever it’s convenient for you, babe.” He catches himself. “Sorry, we can sort it out when you’re back.”

  “Okay. Bye.” My hand lifts in a wave.

  He comes back to me. “Go inside so I know you’re safe.” Standing behind the door, I wave goodbye for real. Our eyes are locked even as the car pulls off. I feel happy, sad, and lonely all at the same time.

  Chapter 10

  “Violet”

  It’s my last Monday in Chicago, so I’m at the office earlier than normal. I can’t help feeling excited about moving back this weekend. This week I’ll take care of all my ‘to do’s’ so I know I’ve left everything here in order.

  Paul’s in early as well this morning. “Good morning, Violet.”

  “Hi Paul, how was your weekend?”

  “Not too bad. Have you started packing?”

  “I have actually, and I did some purging as well.” I smile.

  “Sounds like you have everything under control, that’s good. I have a few things to take care of here before I move back, but we’ll be fine, I’m sure of it.”

  “I know, and with technology, I promise you’ll think I’m still here.” He laughs.

  “You’re so reliable, Violet. You’re my right arm most days.” He seems sentimental.

  “We make a great team.” He nods and goes into his office.

  I delve into work until Paul’s line rings, interrupting my last thought. He’s not in his office so I answer, “Paul Anders’ office.”

  “Hi Violet, it’s Adam Stone.” He sounds so
formal.

  “Yes, I know who it is.” I try to be light-hearted, even though we’ve haven’t spoken since my birthday, so it’s been a couple of weeks.

  “Sorry.” He laughs. “Is Paul available?”

  “He’s not in his office right now, but should be back any minute.”

  “Okay, ask him to call me please. Oh, while I have you on the phone, when are you moving back?”

  “Actually, I was going to email you today. I’m driving back this weekend.”

  “Why didn’t you call me to let me know? Drive? That’ll take hours. Why aren’t you flying?”

  “I figured you’ve been busy and I didn’t want to bother to you. Driving is cheaper than paying freight to have my stuff shipped back. Not to mention, my stuff wouldn’t arrive at the same time as I do.”

  “You should’ve called me,” he sounds perturbed and then says, “well, how much stuff do you have anyway?”

  “About half a U-haul, I think.”

  “I’ll take care of the shipping for you. You should fly back and I can pick you up from the airport.” Now he sounds more like his demanding self.

  “No, I’ve got this and I’m driving. I’ve got to go and I’ll ask Paul to call you. Bye.” I hang up before he can say anything else. Two minutes later my line rings this time.

  It’s him. “I hope you know I’m just trying to be helpful.” His tone is less demanding now.

  I sigh. “I know and I appreciate that, but my plans are still final. I’m driving because it’s what I can afford, and I’m actually looking forward to the drive.”

  “Let me drive back with you then. You shouldn’t be alone.”

  “You don’t have time for that! I know how busy you are. It’ll blow a large part of your weekend. It’s an eight-hour drive at least, plus stops. It’s probably closer to ten hours?”

  “I happen to be free next weekend. I’ll fly in early Saturday morning.” He pauses like he’s thinking, sounding cheerful he says, “A road trip, it sounds like fun.”

  I have to smile to myself ‘he just happens to be free’. Driving back with him will be more interesting than driving alone. “Okay fine, it’s you’re weekend. See you on Saturday then.”

  “You will indeed. Goodbye Violet.”

  “Bye Mr. Stone.” He laughs before he hangs up. When Paul comes back I tell him about Adam’s call. He closes his office door before he returns it.

  §

  At precisely eight am on Saturday morning, Adam’s at my front door dressed in jeans, a T-shirt, hoodie, and sneakers. He could wear a garbage bag and still turn heads. I’m pretty much dressed the same. He comes in with two coffees. “Hi, you all packed?”

  “Yep.” I take the coffee. “Thanks. I’ll enjoy this.” I sit on one of the sturdy boxes while he looks around.

  “So this is everything?”

  “Yep, all of it. It’s not a lot, but it’s all mine, bought and paid for with my hard-earned cash.”

  He smiles. “Yes, that’s a good feeling, isn’t it?”

  “It is.” I swig the last of my coffee and drop the cup in the garbage bag I have going. My insides rock with excitement about moving back, and having Adam join me today just adds to it.

  The boss speaks, “Let’s start with the sofa. Do you have movers coming to help?”

  “Nope, it’s just you and me. You’re saving me money. I had a guy lined up to help me load the truck, but since you offered, I didn’t need him.”

  He grins to himself. “Are you sure it’s not too heavy for you, the sofa I mean?”

  “No, because the sofa not’s coming with us, this place was a furnished rental.”

  “Oh, so it’s just boxes then?”

  “Yes, plus that chair and ottoman.” I point to the corner.

  “Okay, I’ll take the chair and the ottoman down first.” He lifts the chair with ease and I watch his muscles flex as he does, and I watch his sweet ass walk out the door. I’m smiling from ear to ear.

  §

  Where outside standing beside the loaded truck. I hand a folder to Adam. “There’s no GPS in this truck, so I’ve printed a map and will use my iPhone.”

  As I’m about to step up into the driver’s seat Adam stops me. “I can drive and you direct.”

  I was ready for this. “Compromise; I’ll drive the first half and you can drive the second half. We’ll both get to direct then.” We both grin. Looking up at him, I say, “To be clear, I’ll drive first.” I step up into the truck before he can say anything, and watch the hot guy get in on the passenger side. He opens the folder I gave him to look at the map, and as I start the engine the smell of gasoline fills my nostrils.

  He looks up quickly and sounding alarmed says, “Is this even certified?”

  “It’s a truck, not a Jag, we’ll be fine. You better buckle up.” When I hear the sound of his buckle click, I smile and check my mirror before pulling out onto the street. There are no bells and whistles in this beast, just the basics.

  §

  Adam’s very good at giving directions, which doesn’t surprise me. After about two hours we pull into an off-ramp service stop for lunch.

  “I’m going to the ladies’.”

  “Okay, what do you want to eat?” I look at the lighted menu board and settle on a burger.

  “A burger and some water, please. Oh, and get something for yourself.” I hand him twenty dollars, and before he can refuse I leave him standing in line. When I come out he’s still in line. He’s not used to lines and I can tell he’s not pleased.

  “Hey!” I touch his arm.

  “Slow line,” he grumbles.

  “If you want I can stand in line and you can get us a table.”

  “No, you get a table while you still can. It’s filling up in here.” The boss speaks.

  I find a two-seat table by the window near the drive-thru. I’m watching cars pull in and out until Adam appears with an orange tray.

  “Great view, huh?” I laugh.

  “Yeah, the best.” He hands me a cheeseburger and a bottle of water. He has the same.

  “Sorry, there’s no fine dining on this trip,” I say grinning.

  “I’ll survive, and I haven’t had a cheeseburger in a while. This one isn’t bad.” I have to smile, he’s trying. Thanks Mr. E.

  “So tell me, what big business deal did you miss to be with me today?”

  “I told you, I was free this weekend.”

  “Yeah right.” I grin. “I’m sure your hands are twitching to grab your Blackberry. You haven’t checked it once. What’s happening to you? I’m actually flattered.”

  He gives me that look, the look when he wanted me to pay attention. “You should be. I wouldn’t do it for anyone else.” I can’t help it, when I wipe cheese off his chin and he doesn’t seem to mind, I’m stuck for words and just stare at him.

  Eventually I say, “So, we’re friends. How’s work really going?” I rest my elbow on the table while taking a drink of water.

  “We’re still growing, which is good. The merger is well underway, and I have a few other deals I’m working on. We recently signed a new customer in the auto trade business, they’re large. That’s a big win for us.”

  I smile, appreciating his openness to talk about his work. I know that’s a big deal for him. “See, that wasn’t so bad, sharing a little about work, was it?”

  He smiles back. “No, it wasn’t, you’re easy to talk to.”

  I swallow, suppressing the sentimental bug that’s trying to work its way through me. I take a large swig of water and plop the bottle down on the table. “Well, friends should be easy to talk to.”

  He nods his head. “Well said. What about you, how’s work and how are you feeling about moving back to the old office?”

  “I won’t lie, I’m glad to be moving back. Like I said befor
e, I miss my dad and Ann. I’m looking forward to seeing my old colleagues and all of the familiar things of home. I’ll even be glad to see you once in a while, when you’re in town, if you’re up for it?”

  “I’ll always have time for you. It seems moving back is the right decision then. That’s a good thing, Violet.” His eyes look past me, like he’s thinking again.

  We’re finished eating now and he says, “Are you ready? We’re making good time I think.”

  We both get up to leave. In the truck, I turn up the radio and start singing “Do You Remember” by Earth, Wind and Fire. Adam’s smiling and nodding his head to the music.

  When I’m finished he says, “You sing really well, another hidden talent. You never cease to amaze me.”

  I gush at his compliment. “I used to sing in my high school choir, but I stopped after the incident though.” My gut feels heavy now at that thought.

  “I haven’t forgotten about that, and I’m sorry it happened to you. You didn’t deserve that, no one does. Why did you stop?”

  “It was my senior year, and well, people started talking, most just felt sorry for me I suppose. Anyway, there were only a couple of months left in the school year, so I dropped out of the choir.” I laugh when I say, “I stayed in the chess club though, not much talking there.”

  He laughs too, probably trying to lighten the mood. “I get it, and I’d probably have done the same. I know how it feels to want to be alone, even escape the past.”

  “It worked for me at the time.” I touch his arm. “I’m sorry if I’ve made you think about your uncle, I didn’t mean to upset you.”

  “I’m fine, Violet, I think about my uncle a lot, that’ll likely never change.” He grins when he says, “So, when do I get to drive?”

  I laugh and say, “Soon.” I turn up the radio again when, “We Are the Champions” belts out. I tap his arm. “Come on, you must know the words, it’s one of the best road trip songs ever.” He laughs and it’s not long before we’re both bobbing our heads and singing at the top of our lungs. “We are the champions…” I’ve always enjoyed the lighter side of Adam, and this couldn’t have come at a better time. We both needed a little cheering up after our conversation.