Looping my arms with both my men, I say, “We are going to have a good time tonight if it kills us.” Brance rolls his eyes again. I roll mine back at him.
When I look up at Reed, he chuckles. “Whatever you say. You are my queen. I’m just a lowly servant. Maybe if you’re lucky, I might take you to the gazebo where I might be able to service my lady properly.” He speaks with a thick but surprisingly good British accent.
“Christ! You two have more sex than anyone should.” Brance pouts.
“No such thing,” Reed answers still with his accent.
Laughing at him, I lightly punch his arm. “Stop it, Reed.”
He laughs too. “Do you think if I did it all night anyone would say anything?” His eyes twinkle.
“I’ll give you a hundred dollars if you do it all night,” Brance eggs him on.
“Hmm.” Reed looks at him. “How about we make a wager of two hundred dollars? Whoever stops speaking with an accent loses.”
Pulling my arms free, I say, “O-kay, first, this is not the place. Second, it’s rude. Third, you’re both millionaires and you’re only betting two hundred dollars?” I can barely say it with a straight face.
“My love, you can up the wager,” he challenges me.
“Come on, you honestly think no one is going to notice you and Brance are speaking like Henry Higgins? Someone is going to say something.”
Reed kisses my forehead. “I don’t think anyone has the balls,” he says absently then salutes a waiter. “Hello, old chap.”
Laughter bursts out of me. Even Brance can’t hold it in. “You’re crazy!”
“So, my friend, do we have a bet?”
Brance drapes a hand on Reed’s shoulder. “We jolly do.”
“Oh God.” I groan. Brance’s accent is awful. He sounds like Antonio Banderas trying to do Shakespeare.
“It looks like your grandpapa went all out.” Brance sweeps his hand indicating the setup.
“I don’t know either one of you.” Preparing to run away, I stop. Unfortunately, in five-inch heels, I have no choice but to stay right with them.
All three of us scan the massive grounds. The colorful dresses and tuxedos look like a giant bowl of jelly beans. The estate is impressive on a regular day. Tonight, it’s awe-inspiring. Massive amounts of glittering little lights are all over. Flowers are everywhere. I can’t even try to guess how long it took the florists.
Tuxedoed waiters and silver-laméd women carry appetizers and flutes filled with champagne.
“Reed… Tess.” Caroline is waving us over. She’s in a skintight emerald-green gown. The middle looks like a bow is wrapped around her. Reed’s mother always looks fabulous, but tonight she’s radiant. Snaking our way through the crowd, I notice some actors and models. Reed nods at a couple of tall guys. I’m assuming they are athletes.
Entering the elegant tent, I spot Caroline talking to a man who must be a Kennedy.
“Hello, Mother, smashing as always.” Reed smiles, still using his stupid accent. Caroline frowns, excusing herself from the Kennedy guy.
“Are you drunk?” she whispers as she guides us to a corner.
“No.”
My face must show guilt because she puts her hands on her hips. “Reed and Brance made a bet with each other.” As if that explains everything. My eyes sweep the massive posh tent. I don’t dare look at her expression—I can sense her disapproval already. Instead, I take in the round tables with white tablecloths and gold cutlery and an enormous crystal chandelier in the middle.
“Reed Saddington, you will stop talking like that immediately. And no drinking. All of you are underage.” She straightens her diamond bracelets and smiles at me.
“Tess, you look stunning. Where’s Brance?”
“He’s right—” Turning, he’s gone.
Great!
“I’m sure he had to use the loo, Mother.” Reed can barely keep a straight face with that comment. Caroline’s eyes narrow. “Go wish your grandfather a happy birthday. And please, Reed, this is a stressful night. I’m sure you know that Claire is… not doing well, what with Robert showing up with his girlfriend.”
I cringe and take a breath. “How bad? Are they here?” I scan the area, but it’s so crowded, I can’t see anything.
“I think they left. God, I hope so. He introduced her in front of us all. Even to your mother. I know Robert is your father, but seriously, was this called for?” She’s looking at me like it’s my fault.
“Mother.” Reed’s voice holds a warning. “Tess has nothing to do with this.”
She sighs, taking my hand. “I know. I’m on edge.” She starts to fan herself. “Is it hot in here?”
“Poor Mom.” I can’t help but feel bad for her.
Reed rolls his eyes. “Drink some water, Mother. We’re going to find Jax.”
Clasping hands, we head toward the front door. Music fills the fragrant air. A full orchestra plays to the side of the entrance to the mansion.
“Jesus, Reed, my dad really did it. I’m so embarrassed.” Glancing at people as we pass, I’m sure they’re judging me.
“Fuck everybody.” His warm hand tightens on mine. It’s as though I’m back in high school and everyone is whispering about me.
The large wooden antique doors stand open, almost beckoning us to come inside. Reed is instantly greeted like a crown prince, bombarded with well-dressed strangers with outstretched hands, all wanting his attention. I smile and nod so much, my lips start to twitch and ache.
“Tess! Thank God you’re here.”
Wow, is all I can think. She’s skinnier, if that’s even possible.
“Mom.” I let go of Reed’s hand and hug her. “We just got here.”
“Did you know?” Her blue eyes are glazed, and she appears almost shocked.
Perfect. She’s not even trying to hold it together. I wrap my arm around her waist and guide her over to a life-size ice sculpture of Ian Saddington. A waiter walks by, and grabbing a napkin, I load it with shrimp skewers.
“Here.” I shove it at her. “Please eat this. Do not make a scene.” Her clawlike hand grabs my arm. I smile at people as they walk by us, their eyes filled with contempt.
“Did you know?” she demands.
“Mom, this is not the time or place,” I whisper.
“Your father brought his whore to a party where all my friends met her! He introduced his slut as his girlfriend to me!” She’s loud and not very steady. If a small wind came in, it would probably knock her over.
“Take it easy.” This time people aren’t even trying to hide their stares.
“He’s ruined me. Made me a laughingstock.” Tears fill her eyes.
“I’m so sorry. No one should have to go through that.” For a moment, I stare up at the tall ceilings and the numerous oil paintings of Reed’s ancestors. Some of the men look so much like Reed and Jax it’s uncanny. When I return my focus, it’s obvious I need to get her out of here, pronto.
“Why? Why would he do this? Does he love her?” Her nails bite into my arm.
“Okay, let’s get some fresh air,” I say quietly. People are watching and whispering. This time, I’m not being paranoid.
I groan, desperate for Reed or Brance. Even Caroline would do. Scanning the large room, my gaze lands on tables set up with piles of gifts. A huge three-tiered cake sits in the middle.
“He’s trying to divorce me. I won’t let him. I’ll never let him win.” She’s rambling like a crazy person, and absently, I wonder if this is the final humiliation for her. Has my dad made her insane? A wave of pity floods me as I guide her outside.
The fragrant flowers in the air make my nose twitch. I guide us along the little path that leads to the duck pond.
The gazebo is unoccupied, I note with relief. Little lights are strung up all around it, some mixing in with the climbing pink roses and purple wisteria. In the middle sits a wooden swing. Reed and I have spent hours swinging on this swing. It’s old but in perfect condition and looks
like it’s been freshly painted.
“Here, Mom.” I help her sit back in her ridiculous harlot-red velvet gown.
We can barely hear the music although an occasional loud scream or laughter filters through.
We swing in silence until I can’t stand it. “Mom?” I turn and look at her. “Why don’t you just do it? Sign the divorce papers. You’ll be rich. And I have to think happier than you are right now.”
“Why would I give him to her? After all these years? Walk away and let some Russian gold digger have him?” She turns so fast her elbow slips off the armrest.
Reaching out, I steady her. I want to defend Lana, but it’s pointless.
“He’s living in another country,” I say, trying to be gentle. “You have to face the fact that he’s been with her for years.”
She runs her hands through her hair. “He’ll come back! He always does.”
Shaking my head, I search the dark skies. “What Daddy did tonight was unforgivable and wrong. But he wants out. And what I have learned living with him is that he gets what he wants. So, be proactive, take the money, and move on.”
I hate feeling like this. I don’t have one thing in common with this woman. She has never once in my life put me first. So, why do I feel so sorry for her or want to help?
The ducks squawk, causing me to turn. Someone has added swans. Their snowy white bodies and necks dip and flutter in the dark water.
“I… I don’t know who I am without him.” I almost fall off the swing. Did my mom actually say something honest?
Blinking at her, I respond, “That’s not true. He’s been gone almost four years. And you have survived. You could do anything you want. Think about it, Mom. You’re still young. You can find someone who truly likes you and be happy.”
“You believe he is not coming back?” Her voice is fragile.
Looking her straight in the eyes, I say, “I know he is not. And I don’t want him humiliating you or anyone anymore.”
She puts her head in her hands. I stop swinging.
“Mom?” Holy shit did she pass out?
She sits up on the swing and groans in distress.
“I’ll think about it. Talk to my lawyer. I’m taking him to the cleaners, just warning you.”
I shrug. “Doesn’t affect me one way or the other. I simply want it done.”
She doesn’t respond after that, her face looking lost. I gently rock us, the crickets and ducks making more noise than my mom and me.
“Tess?” Reed’s deep voice penetrates the silence.
“We’re in the gazebo,” I call out.
He walks up the steps, face full of worry. “I’ve been looking for you. My grandfather is waiting for us.” His eyes dart back and forth from my mom to me. “Everything okay?”
“Yes, Reed.” She sighs dramatically. “We’re having a mother-daughter moment. Or at least we were.”
He smirks, leaning over to give her a kiss on the cheek. “Still as entertaining as ever, Claire.” Straightening, he likely steals both our breaths with that smile.
“My grandfather is asking for Tess. We should think about…”
I can’t help but snort back a giggle. He is completely ridiculous. My mom is so self-absorbed she hasn’t even noticed his accent and he is laying it on thick.
“Shall we, my ladies?” He winks at my mom, holding out his arm.
“Reed!” I say.
He lifts an eyebrow. “Yes, my love?”
I jump out of the swing so fast it causes my mother to flop back against the wooden swing with a shriek.
“Sorry, Mom.” I lean over to steady her in the swing. “Have you seen Brance or Jax?”
“Brance is here?” My mom’s face is suddenly alive. Reed chuckles and helps her to her feet, patting her hand as we walk toward the music.
“Ah yes, Claire, the ever-loyal Brance has decided to make an appearance only for you.”
She chatters on happily. I start to wonder if all the booze has permanently messed with her brain. Or is she truly that sad and needy? Minutes ago, she was lost and despondent about my dad. Now she’s flirting and clinging to Reed like he’s her best friend. Turning the corner, I see Brance laughing with Jax and some man I have never seen.
“Look, Mom, there’s Brance.” I point at him, having absolutely no guilt since the traitor deserted me.
She gasps and saunters toward him. Confused, I watch her. “Tell me I will never be like that,” I say, frowning when she flings herself into Brance’s arms.
Reed cups my face. “I can guarantee that will never be you.”
“I worry that it’s like a hereditary thing. I mean, I think her mom was like her. I don’t remember her very well, but my dad said they were carbon copies.”
“Let’s dance, Kitten.” Reed takes my hand in his. Everything about him is strong and warm. He feels like the most magical security cloak. I cling to him as he leads us into the ballroom. It takes at least twenty minutes since we are forced to stop to make idle chitchat, but I don’t care. I’m with him and nothing else matters.
At last, he swings me in his arms. The old wood floor gleams as he swirls me around. I laugh out loud. Could I love him any more?
The orchestra has moved to the large balcony. Their exquisite instruments shine under the moonlight as the musicians play the famous “New York, New York” theme. Reed pulls me close, taking my hand and placing it right on his heart as we sway old-fashioned style. My head relaxes on his shoulder and I let him guide me. There are moments, split seconds in my life that I will never forget. The first moment my eyes found Reed’s at eight. My fifteenth birthday. Eating hot dogs in the rain, and this moment. The grand ballroom is packed with people, but I see only us. This is what Reed was saying about us having to be careful. I don’t know what exact action or word has triggered this strange enlightenment inside me. But it’s awake and I can’t ever let it go.
The instruments fill my senses. Lifting my head, I look at his handsome face.
“I love you. I truly love you.” My voice comes out raspy and fierce.
He grins. “I know.”
I laugh at his arrogance. His full lips brush mine. He twirls me, then pulls me into his warmth.
“You make me happy, Tess Rose Gallagher.”
My eyes sting with tears as he twirls me one more time. On the last note, he dips me. And I smile knowing he won’t let me fall.
TESS
Present day – twenty-five years old
Santa Monica, CA
I’m sitting in my living room, going over my checklist in my mind. Pudding, my Samoyed is at Logan and Brance’s house. My hair has been trimmed and styled. My makeup is perfect: smoky eyes, light blush, and nude lips along with matching nails. My Bottega Veneta luggage is next to me along with my phone and wine.
Thank God for the wine. Tilting my head back, I close my eyes, the spellbinding voices of Mirella Freni and Pavarotti weaving their magic through my house. I’m calm, which should alarm me, but after my hysterics this morning, I have given into my fate. I know what I have done is horrible. So wrong, that it doesn’t matter anymore. As soon as I land in Manhattan, I will have to atone for my sins.
Lifting my head, I blink at the large living room. Yellow, it’s my favorite color. It makes everything cheerful and fresh.
I love my house and my neighborhood. It has green lawns, and everyone has a dog, a kid, or both. It’s home. So why do I feel like I might not be seeing it for a while? Shaking away my morose thoughts, I stand and take my empty wineglass into the kitchen and rinse it. Looking longingly at the half-empty bottle, I know I need to stop. I have responsibilities, and it’s not like I can go ahead and drink the whole bottle and forget. I’ve tried that, yet somehow I still remember, still crave him, hate him.
The doorbell rings and energy instantly surges through my body. A wave of dizziness seizes me. Slowly, I walk to my front door taking deep, calming breaths. Hesitating a moment, I unlock my two dead bolts and open it.
It’s like I have gone back in time. Except Jay is in Santa Monica, California instead of New York. He looks the same. The man must be in his midforties, but he looks the same.
“Jay, thank God they sent you.”
The tears sting my eyes. He removes his mirrored aviators, his dark suit looking out of place in my family neighborhood.
“Tess, you get more beautiful every time I see you.” His smile is real. Not being able to stop, I throw myself into his arms.
He stiffens at first, then pulls me in for a tight, warm hug.
“I’m sorry,” I mumble. “I know this is completely unprofessional.” Sniffling, I wish I had a Kleenex.
“I need a friend. Tell me you’re on my side. Please, Jay, I need at least one person from their camp on my side.” The wine has not helped. If anything, it’s making me lose it. I pull away and look at him. He does look good—besides the lines around his eyes, the man looks exactly the way he did when we were teenagers. Realizing that we are standing outside on my brick driveway, I motion for him to come in.
“Can I get you something to drink?” He looks around my house. His eyes zero in on my half-empty bottle of wine.
“I’m over twenty-one now, Jay. You don’t have to worry about losing your job,” I snip, suddenly feeling like I’m fifteen again.
“I never worried about losing my job.” He looks up and down at my décor. “That’s what always amused me with you three. So arrogant and sure of yourselves and how your lives were going to turn out.”
He puts his hands in his pockets. “Brad hired me to do a job, Tess. That job was to protect his sons and you. I gave them a detailed report every Monday morning at nine a.m. sharp on everything you guys did that week.”
“Brad had you spying on us?” I knew Brad was sneaky, but I had no idea he basically planted a mole in our group. Jay went everywhere with us. Jax was sure they had cameras. Instead, it was Jay.
“You ready to go back and face him?”
“Of course!”
“I hope so. Don’t show weakness. Otherwise, he will eat you up. And you could lose everything.”
I blink at him. His ominous words hang in the air. “He can’t hurt me unless I allow him to.”
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