Unexpected Chances (19 page)

Tabitha

No words are forming as I stand here and listen to, Carter. I had envisioned this surprise differently. That rejection just came out of left field and knocked the life right out of me.

As I exit his building and move towards my car, I still have no idea what has just happened. Shocked isn’t even what I would say I am, a mixture of hurt laced with anger.

“Put me up in a hotel,” I say out loud, as I march myself over towards my rental car lost in thoughts that I don’t even see the lady I run into.

“Excuse me, are you okay dear?”

“I’m so sorry. I wasn’t paying attention.”

“You shouldn’t drive while you’re upset, dear. Would you like to come up for some coffee?” She asks.

“No, thank you and again I’m sorry I wasn’t paying attention,” I explain, as I move out of her space and towards my car.

I look to see the time and know that I can catch the redeye back home and that’s where I need to be. I need to surround myself with people that I know love me. I should have never opened my heart to a stranger.

Home at last. I drop all my luggage and items in the living room and carry myself into my room. Throwing myself across the bed, I finally let the emotions that I’ve been holding out. Sob after sob takes over my body and I can’t stop them.

I cry for the love that I lost years ago, and the love that just ripped me to pieces. It’s official I’ll never take a leap of faith on anyone else. That key I threw away years ago and searched for to unlock my heart. Well I’ve returned it to the deep ocean again. I knew I should have never unlocked it, I knew I should have listened to my head and not my stupid heart.

My head is pounding as if I spent the night before out on the dance floor. Somehow I found the energy to pull myself together and head to the office.

I sneak in and make myself comfortable. I don’t see Angela in her office yet and wonder why she’s running late.

“Where were you last night?” Angela barks out at me.

“I lost my phone and found it this morning,” I explain.

“Sorry for snapping, it’s just been stressful with all the changes and then having him back at the house.”

“I’m shocked you haven’t killed the nozzle yet. Did you get ahold of Logan?”

“No, left another message and haven’t heard a thing back.”

“Men just suck big donkey butts.”

“Yeah you can say that. So when’s Jessica starting?”

“About that, she had something come up, and we had to reschedule. Don’t worry, I can handle things for a little while longer.”

“Okay, well I have a few reports to work on and a list of new clients to go through. You ready to take a few more on yourself?”

“You know it, bitch. Load me up, and I’ll fire like a pistol.”

“Where do you get this stuff?”

I tap the side of my head as I smile up at my best friend, “It’s all up here in this wonderful playground.”

I hear Angela laughing all the way to her office and it warms my heart to hear her. She’s been through so much that I hate to see her unhappy.

Me: Hey Jess, sorry about yesterday. Catch up tonight at The Hill?

Jess: I start my shift at 8 so come by a little early.

I need to remember to text the guys, we haven’t been out in a while and I need to get my life back. The life that I’m destined to have for eternity.

It’s been confirmed that we will all meet up tonight for a few drinks and catch up. I haven’t seen Cory since the banquet and I’m dying to hear about his date with Meredith.

****

Carter

Bethany did show up last night and left with the door slammed in her face. I was in no mood to deal with her, especially after she announced she’d seen Tabitha in the parking lot.

Rage is what I felt having to hear her say Tabitha’s name. I’d never wanted to wrap my hands around a women’s throat as I did at that moment.

“You alright, boss?” Kelly asks.

“I’m good, but can you hold all my calls today?”

“I can. You need anything else?”

“No, thanks though.”

Four hours have passed by, and all I’ve managed to do is sit here at my desk. I couldn’t sleep last night as each time I closed my eyes, they were filled with Tabitha.

Finally giving up, I head out of my office. I don’t even stop to explain to Kelly that I’m leaving for the day. I’m caught up on work, and what I have left can wait. I’d left the contracts at home this morning, and something in me is pulling me to review them.

I snatch up the manila folder and head out to my balcony. As I sit down and look at it, I notice the doodling across the front. Its small little circles and hearts intertwined into one. It’s eye catching and I’m drawn to it. Not just because Tabitha drew it.

I know exactly what I plan to do with her doodling design. I pray that one day I’ll be able to share it with her.

The contract is brilliant. I never would have thought of the things that she’s written up. She’s mentioned a few things about making the condos a more family atmosphere. Offering a child service for the parents and converting the area near the clubhouse into a playground and a kiddy pool.

As I’m reading, I lose my concentration and think to what Tabitha would look like pregnant. How I hope that one day she will give me a chance and then it’s no longer a thought, I can make it real.

Tabitha

It’s all set and done. Jessica is the newest member of SHI, and will start as soon as I give her the thumbs up. I’m looking forward to the distraction of training her and showing Jess the ropes. I need this distraction or I’m liable to blow like Mount Everest.

Picking up my martini, I take a sip and almost choke as Cory comes up behind me. “Hey, Firecracker,” he says, as he places a kiss on top of my head.

“Do you always have to sneak up on me? You’re going to give me a heart attack one day,” I state, as I wipe my mouth and regroup.

“You’re so easy, I can’t help myself.”

“Ha… ha…”

“You the only one here, so far?”

“I am and you’re early.”

“No I knew you were meeting Jessica, and needed some Firecracker time before the gang gets here.”

“I’m glad because I need some Cory time as well.”

“What’s wrong? You look as if someone ran over your favorite pair of heels.”

“You could say that. I don’t know, and I’d really rather not talk about it tonight. I just need for us to be back to normal. I need to let go and relax.”

“Anything for you. How about we dance some,” Cory says, with a wiggle of his brows.

“Let’s cut a rug, mister,” I let out, as I place my hand into his.

Cory and I dance for five songs before the gang gets to the bar. I notice Seth will not stray away from Jessica’s side, and I make another mental note to get to the bottom of this. I’ve got my suspension, but I’ll allow my brother to explain himself.

I’m listening to Cory, Jason, Ben and Mitch carryon like old times when I catch a glimpse of someone moving near me. Something about this guy makes my back straighter and the hairs on the back of my neck standup.

“Care to dance, pretty lady?” He slurs out.

“I think she’s good right where she is, buddy. How about you go call a cab and move it along,” Mitch buts in.

“I think I asked the pretty girl, not you.”

I slung my head around and look at the guy, his eyes seems so familiar and the way he called me, pretty girl causes vomit to rise within my throat.

“Thanks, but my feet hurt,” I explain, as I lift a foot out to show him the heels that are killing my feet.

“You heard her man,” Seth steps in, becoming the protective brother.

“Whatever, she’s not my type anyway,” he mumbles, as he turns to walk away. As I follow him, I notice the same guy that I’ve seen over and over a few times in here. I can’t remember his name, but something about him causes me to stand and walk over towards him.

I don’t ask to sit, I just slide into the booth and look up at him to say, “You’ve become a regular?”

“I have. It’s a cozy place.”

Looking around The Hill, I turn back towards him, “Cozy is the last thing I’d call this place.” I reach my hand out across the table to shake, “I’m sorry I forgot your name, I’m Tabitha.”

“Jack and I remember yours,” he states, as he grips my hand firmly.

“Well, it was good to see you again,” I let out, as I begin to slide out and head back over to my group.

“Hey, wait a second.”

I stop myself and turn to see if he has anything else to say and then I’m taken back when he begins to say, “Watch yourself, and stay away from that creep a moment ago.”

“Do you know him?”

“Let’s say I know of him and it would make me feel better if you leave here tonight with one of the guys you’re with, okay.”

“Okay,” I answer back with confusion written all over my face. Tonight just keeps getting weirder by the moment.

“I’ll be right back,” I say, as I rush past the guys. I need a moment, and they sure the hell will not allow that.

Thankful for once that this bathroom is only one stall. Bracing myself against the old and dirty countertop, I look into the mirror. “Get it together, Tabitha,” I say to my reflection.

I splash some water on my face and reapply some lip gloss before I head back out. It’s getting late and from all the stress in my life, and at work I finally feel as sleep will come easy tonight. A night of no dreams, no hope of a future I was ready to start with a man who means nothing to me now.

“Guys, I’m out like a kid in dodge ball,” I say, as I pass around hugs to everyone.”

“You good to drive and stuff.”

“No worries here. I’ll call you tomorrow,” I say, to Cory and then look over to my brother, “You and me this weekend. No ifs, ands or butts.”

With a salute, “Got it sis. Take it easy and I’ll see you Saturday.”

****

Carter

When sleep finally takes over your body, you don’t appreciate being woken at two in the morning with your phone ringing in your ear.

“This better be good.”

“Carter, it’s Jack sorry for waking you man, but I have some news.”

I sit up straight in my bed, and stiffen. The way Jack is talking has me on pins and needles. “What happened and tell me she’s okay.”

“Calm down. She’s fine for now, but your cousin showed up and approached her. He’s strung out again, luckily she was with that group of guys she’s always with.”

“Jack, man I don’t trust him and I know he works for Bethany. If he’s hanging around, you need to watch yourself as well. He’s dirty.”

“I know his background, I just thought you needed to be the first to hear this. Nothing will happen to her as long as she’s on my watch. I know she means the world to you, I also know you turned her away.”

“How do you know that?”

“Well, you do pay me to tail her and since she jumped on a plane and ran off to your house. I followed. Speaking of that, she also ran into Bethany but has no idea who she was.”

“Make sure it stays that way,” I inform Jack.

“Will do. I’ll let you know if anything else happens.”

“Thanks,” I say, as I place the phone back on my nightstand. I lay back down, but the thoughts are rolling too fast. I can’t even fathom why Jasper is in California. I do know that whatever the reason, it’s not good.

Tabitha

It’s been six weeks since I’ve stopped for a moment to myself. Angela has been in New York and I’ve been training Jessica. Finally with her up to speed, I feel as if I need a break.

A change of scenery will do me some good. I haven’t heard a thing from Carter since he basically told me to take a hike, and watched me walk away. In time I’ll heal, and dig my feet into my job. I understand now why Angela works as hard as she does.

When you’re unhappy and have no one to share your life with, you find another outlet.

Work is going to be my new escape.

I just found out that my best friend, and her lover are expecting and I’ll be an aunt in a few months. Talk about exciting. I can’t wait to buy up the whole baby store and drive her nuts.

Stepping off the private jet, I look over at my best friend and my heart melts with the glow that surrounds her. I haven’t the slightest idea how she found, Logan Black but I sure the hell hope she keeps him. A girl can get used to flying on private jets and hanging out in New York City.

“Look at you,” I exclaim, as I embrace, Angela.

“Stop fussing over me, you look great as well.”

“I know. You jealous?”

“Not in the slightest.”

Making a point to joke with her about the size of her boobs and ass, I’m ushered into the car so we can head off for some shopping.

Yes, shopping in New York is off the chain amazing. I’ve convinced myself that if I need to shop, I have to come see Angela. Racking up on clothes for myself and the cutest new suitcase, we make sure to load her up with new maternity clothes.

“Are you happy now, Angela?” I ask, before we head down for dinner.

“I am. I was scared to death when I found out we were expecting. I mean look at me and then look at Logan. I still wake up every morning and I’m amazed that I have him.”

I process her words, and a part of me wishes I could find that.

A man that adores the ground I walk on, someone who would lay their life down for me.

A person that I could call the love of my life, and carry his child.

“Everything okay with you, Tabitha. You seem a little off in the distance.”

Waving her off, “Oh I am more than fine. You know me.”

“I do and I know that look. I’ll figure it out.”

“All those new hormones are making you loopy. Let’s go find your man before he sends out the FBI.”

Stepping into the lounge, I take it all in. The place is modern and fits the atmosphere that I always imagined New York would have. I’ve decided that if I ever move, this is the city for me. The energy it puts off, fuels me. It’s a high to be surrounded by the building towering over you as the people race beside you.

Lost in thoughts some throughout dinner, I’m taken back to witness Logan drop down to one knee and propose to Angela. I knew it was coming but it’s still a wow factor.

After hugs and a few tears, I look over towards Logan and wink. He’d marry her yesterday if she’d agree to it.

“You two have some work to get done starting tomorrow,” Logan states.

“Yippee!” I exclaim, as the other customers turn to glare in our direction.

It took some convincing on my part to get Angela to agree to marry him. We have four weeks to throw the best wedding ever. I’ve already warned her that I will take total control and rock it.

“You are not covering everything in sparkles, do you hear me.”

“I have no earthly idea what you are talking about,” I play off, as I see the whole venue in my head.

She would kill me if I do what I’d like, so I turn to comfort her as I explain, “This is your special day and I will let my shine come through. But I do have a few surprises left. Those you will find out about when it’s time, until then we need to get busy.”

Angela shakes her head at me as I watch Logan throw his head back in a fit of laughter.

This is exactly what I need, the perfect distraction from my dysfunctional life.

****

Carter

Six weeks of hell is what I’ve been living in. In that time, Bethany moved into my place as I moved out. As soon as I walked in and saw her bags, I turned right back around. Living in another one of the condos show homes hasn’t been fun. Kelly arranged for my personal things to be moved, and I’m living out of boxes.

Since Bethany has infected my place, I’m looking for a new one to live in permanently. One I plan to not share with her, but Tabitha. The end goal hasn’t changed. I still get updates from Jack and know every move she makes.

Tabitha went to New York and I know she’s protected, so Jack is off until she returns home. He’s done his job and done it well. We haven’t seen or heard from Jasper since that night in the bar. I can only pray it stays that way.

Jasper is usually so strung out on drugs that he forgets what he’s been assigned to. That’s why it confuses the hell out of me why Bethany hired him in the first place. With any luck he will stay gone, or at least for another few weeks.

Since I never go home anymore, I’ve finished the design of the house I’d like to start building soon. The board has signed off on the suggestions from SHI and we implemented those last week.

Something new to focus on, it keeps me busy and happy. The happy part is that every time I need to review something I get to open that manila folder Tabitha left. I get to read her writing and wonder what else she’s drawn on. I’ll never forget the first day that I saw her on my computer screen and how I strive to be a better person for her. I haven’t got all the answers and don’t know if I ever will.

Hopefully my meeting with Richard goes well today. He’s still using my information and researching it. Which surprised me last night when he phoned telling me he found an out and that we needed to meet.

Walking through the park to meet Richard, I notice a little pep in my step. It’s as if I might be able to move one, I’ll have the ammunition to move on and finally be rid of the Edwards family for good.

Richard’s over twenty minutes late, and it’s not like him. I stand and start to pace the sidewalk as I keep an eye out for him. He’d instructed me to meet him here, and not in his office. Something about not trusting the ears around the place. I don’t blame him, sometimes I feel as my office is bugged.

My phone vibrates in my pocket and I hurry to grab it. Seeing the caller ID shows it’s Bethany, I ignore it and slide it back into my jeans. Today is supposed to be a good day and she will only bring me down.

Sitting down on the bench, I run my hands through my hair and look up to the sky. It’s finally a sunny day and it causes me to smile. Just as I go to stand backup, the phone rings again.

“Can’t you go one day without contacting me?” I throw at her.

“Oh what fun would that be for me?”

“It would be a ton of fun for me. What do you need now?”

“Just calling to say you’re wasting your time, Richard’s not showing up.”

“What do you mean? I’m not meeting him,” I spit out into the phone as, I’m confused to what she’s saying.

“You were going to meet him, but how do I say this. He’s been diverted so to speak, permanently.”

Taken back by her words, I sit back down and lean forward to rest my head into my hands. I have to take a moment before I can ask anything else.

“I expect you will be home this evening, Carter.”

“Go to hell Bethany. That’s not our home. You are in my home and I expect you to be out before sundown. I swear to you, I will prove that you did this. If you didn’t I will prove that you had something to do with this.” I say and click the phone off.

I’m totally screwed at this moment in time. Richard had been working with me for years to bring them down. I knew what he was working on, I just don’t know what he found out. I feel that every time I get to the finish line, someone moves it.