Unwritten Lives: Path To Destiny

by Amy Shannon

Unwritten Lives: Path to Destiny

  by

  Amy Shannon

  © Copyright 2015 by Amy C Shannon

  All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permissions of the author, except by a review who may quote brief passages in a review to be printed in a newspaper, magazine, or journal.

  This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

  Credits:

  Cover Illustration Copyright © 2015

  Cover design by Amy Shannon

  Alexis’ Path

  1

  Pennsylvania

  ALEXIS grabbed on to the bars and cried. “How could this happen to me?” she mumbled to herself. She turned around and stared at the nine by nine jail cell that she now called her home. She slowly collapsed on the cot and stared at the ceiling.

  “Hey, Garris!”

  She sat up quickly and stared at the two officers. “What do you want, Capshaw?” she muttered.

  “This is Officer Wheeler. You’re his new assignment. They placed you on 24 7 watch.”

  “Why would they do that?” She covered her eyes.

  “You know why,” Officer Capshaw answered. “Walter, she’s behaved herself since she was brought in from the hospital, but watch out for the quiet ones,” he left them.

  Alexis could see Walter’s smile through his bearded face. “What are you looking at?” she cried.

  “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to stare,” his voice was soft and polite. “Please stand over here.”

  She reluctantly got up and walked over to the bars. “Yes, sir, what is it?”

  He extended his hand through the bars. “I’m Walter Wheeler. I’ll treat you as you treat me.”

  She shook his hand. “I’m Alexis Garris, and before you ask, yes, that one.”

  “What one?”

  “Never mind. It’s not important. May I please lie back down? My back’s killing me.”

  “Yes, of course. What’s wrong with your back?”

  “Don’t you know anything about me?” She spat. “I’m sorry, just tired of having to explain it to every one,” she ran her hands through her light brown hair.

  “Don’t worry about it. We can talk about it later. Is there anything I can get for you?”

  “I’d like to see my sister-in-law, but they haven’t let me have any visitors yet. I’ve only seen my attorney.”

  “What’s her name? I’ll see what I can do.”

  “Her name’s Emily Martino,” Alexis smiled weakly. “Um, excuse me, why are you being nice to me? Everyone else treats me like, well, a murderer. I mean, I guess I am one, but you’re different.”

  “Alexis, I treat people the way they treat me. From what I hear, you’re claiming self-defense.”

  “That’s my attorney for you.”

  “Are you saying it wasn’t?”

  “I’m not saying anything. Remember, anything I say can be used against me.”

  “Well, it looks like we’ll be together at least until the trial is over. I’ll be right over there if you need me,” he pointed to a small, windowed room across from the cell.

  “Sure, whatever. I’m not going anywhere,” she sat on the cot, buried her face in her hands and closed her eyes. “Oh, Matthew, what happened?” she whispered. “How’d we end up here? Six years is just not long enough,” her mind flooded back to when she first met Matthew.

  Alexis and Mary stood behind the counter waiting for more customers to arrive. The bell gently chimed as the front door opened. Alexis gasped with excitement as she watched John and a stranger walk in and sit down. “Mary, who’s that with John?” she managed to say.

  “Oh, him?” Mary smiled teasingly. “That’s Matthew Garris. Nice uniform, huh?”

  “Oh, yeah,” Alexis took a deep breath. “Oh, yeah.”

  “Lex, I thought you liked cops,” she laughed.

  “Very funny,” she rubbed her forehead back and forth with her hand. “I can’t explain it but a man in uniform, is just, well, I don’t know, extremely sexy.”

  “You just like the shiny metals that lay across their chest,” Mary laughed.

  “Never mind that, just tell me more about this Matthew,” Alexis poured herself a cup of coffee.

  “Oh, all right,” Mary turned and faced Alexis. “He’s new in town. He’s a captain in the Marines. He met John a few weeks ago. I guess, you could say that Matthew has been traveling around the country.”

  “Why’s he in a dress uniform then?”

  “There was some special service today. I’m not sure what it was about. John had to be there today, because the Governor was also there.”

  “Yeah, John’s some bodyguard, isn’t he?”

  “Yes, he is and he’s all mine,” Mary cracked.

  “I know. I’d never, Mary, you know me.”

  “Yes, honey. I do know you. Why don’t you bring them some coffee over? Maybe John will introduce you to him.”

  She ran her hands over her hair in an attempt to fix it.

  “Lex, you look fine.”

  “Yeah, right. I’m a mess,” Alexis grabbed the coffeepot and carried it over to the men. “Hi, John,” she tried not to look at the gorgeous Matthew Garris, but couldn’t help herself. “You two want some coffee?”

  Matthew looked up at Alexis and smiled brilliantly. Alexis noticed his piercing blue eyes that complimented his dark wavy hair. “Yes, thank you,” he said.

  Alexis took a deep breath and poured John his cup, but when she tried to pour Matthew’s cup, her hand shook nervously and she spilled it all over his lap. “Oh, my god. I’m so terribly sorry,” Alexis quickly ran over to the counter to grab some towels. She gently patted Matthew’s lap. “I’m really sorry. I don’t know what came over me.”

  Matthew touched her arm and their eyes met. “Don’t worry about it. It’s nothing the dry cleaners can’t handle,” he laughed.

  “I’ve never done anything like this before. I don’t know what happened. I’m so sorry. Did I burn you?”

  “No. Please, sit down,” he smiled. “John, will you excuse us for a moment?”

  John stood up. “Lex, please sit down. I’ll be over with Mary if you need us,” he hurried over to the counter. John and Mary focused their eyes on the couple as Alexis sat down.

  “Lex?” Matthew asked.

  “My name’s actually Alexis,” she smiled nervously.

  “I’m Matthew Garris. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

  “I’m so sorry about this. I guess, well, I got a little flustered,” she admitted.

  “Really? Why?”

  “You’ll have to excuse me. I’m sorry. One of my faults is that I’m brutally honest and never subtle,” she rubbed her forehead back and forth with her hand.

  “What are you trying to say to me, then?” He stroked her hand as it laid on the table.

  “Here goes nothing,” she looked up and met his eyes. “I find you very attractive. There I said it,” she took a deep breath.

  “Well, Alexis, you’re very beautiful.”

  She blushed slightly. “How long are you in town? I heard that you’re in the Marines.”

  “I’ve been traveling a lot. I was promoted to Captain recently, but it’s not what I want to do for the rest of my life.”

  Alexis looked around. “I know the feeling,” she smiled at John and Mary as they continued to watch them. “You’ll have to excuse them. They act like they’ve never
seen me with a man before.”

  “Oh, you aren’t involved with anyone?” Matthew asked.

  “No, and it’s been a while since I’ve dated. I’m just so busy here at the diner.”

  “Not to knock this place or anything, but why do you work here?”

  “Let me formally introduce myself,” she smiled as she took a deep breath. “I’m Alexis Rossi.”

  “Oh,” he said. “I didn’t know. I’m sorry.”

  “No, I’m sorry. If you’re uncomfortable, I understand. Once people find out who I am, they usually are slightly intimidated.”

  “Oh, it’s not that. I just didn’t realize that a waitress would be a millionaire,” he laughed slightly.

  “I’m sorry, Matthew,” she started to stand. “I’ll let you finish your coffee.”

  “Alexis, wait, please,” he smiled and took her hand. He kissed it softly. “It doesn’t bother me, but it just makes me more curious. Why do you work here as a waitress?”

  “I like meeting people and earning my keep. Yes, I do own the diner, but I like working here. I didn’t earn the money that I inherited, my mother did. I use it when I see a need for it, that’s all,” she sat back down.

  “Alexis, would you like to have dinner with me?” His blue eyes pleaded with her. “I’d like to get to know you a little better.”

  “I’d like that. When?” She nervously ran her hand back and forth over her forehead.

  “Tonight. How’s six?”

  “Sounds good,” she smiled. “You can pick me up here. I live in the apartment upstairs.”

  “You’re amazing, you know that?” Matthew said as he walked out.

  Alexis ran her hands through her light brown hair and smiled confidently as she strutted over to John and Mary. “So, John, what’s wrong with him?”

  “What do you mean, Lex?”

  “John, he’s gorgeous, polite, and extremely nice. What’s wrong with him?”

  “Nothing that I know of. I swear. From what I understand, he’s on the up and up. The Governor introduced us a few weeks ago. Matthew Garris and his ex-partner received the Medal of Honor a few years ago. Matthew traveled around after making captain. I guess he isn’t quite as happy as he used to be when he was just a regular marine. He’s trying to find a place to call home,” John smiled. “You like him, don’t you?”

  “Yeah, from what I know right now, I think I do.”

  “Lex, it’s OK. I know you haven’t been happy. Please, at least see how this turns out with Matthew. He doesn’t have to be a cop to make you happy. Besides, he’s better than a cop. He’s a Marine,” John laughed. “Give yourself a chance to be happy.”

  “I’m going to pretend that you didn’t say that,” Alexis smiled. “But I’ll give him a chance, as well as myself. Yes, I definitely will.”

  Alexis answered the door and there stood Matthew. “I hope I’m not too early,” he said. He gazed at her in her black dress. “Wow, you look great.”

  She smiled. “Yeah, quite a difference from my uniform,” she laughed. “You look great yourself. Your uniform cleans up nice.”

  He smiled. “Well, the other one’s at the cleaners. John told me that you like uniforms.”

  “I’ll have to kill him for that,” she smiled. “Come on in. Let me just finish getting ready.”

  Matthew walked in and looked around her apartment. “This is a really nice place. Not what you would expect being over a diner.”

  Alexis finished putting on her shoes and smiled. “Well, it wasn’t my idea. My attorney, Jason, thinks he’s my father. So, he had this placed furnished for me.”

  Matthew sat down on the sofa. “You’re really beautiful, you know that.”

  “Thank you,” she focused on the floor as if she were embarrassed.

  He touched her face with his finger and brought her eyes to meet his. “Alexis, you’re beautiful. Please don’t worry, I won’t hurt you.”

  “I’m not worried,” she said hesitantly.

  “Alexis, may I kiss you?”

  She nodded slightly. He pulled her head into a warm, soft sensual kiss. She pulled away slowly. “I’m sorry, but I can’t go any further than that,” she stood up quickly.

  “Alexis,” Matthew stood up and placed his hands on her bare shoulders. “I’m not asking you to. I have to admit I haven’t ever been in a serious relationship. The last relationship I had was with my best friend, JC. We grew up together and then enlisted in the marines. There haven’t been any women in my life in a very long time.”

  “I’m kind of new at this, too,” she turned to him. “I just can’t sleep with you tonight,” she ran her hands over his shoulders. “I’d like to, but I don’t want us to start out like that. I’ve made that mistake too many times.”

  “I understand. Alexis, what do you really want out of life?”

  “I should ask you first. You’re the one who’s traveling around the country. Are you going to leave here?”

  “Not if I have a reason to stay.”

  “What would be a good enough reason?” Her eyes lit up as she smiled.

  “You. You would be a good enough reason,” he sat back down on the sofa.

  “You would give up everything, just to stay here, because of me?” She sat next to him.

  “I wouldn’t be giving anything up. I’m a lonely man. What’s left of my family and friends is back in Arizona. I thought that I wanted to explore the country, but now that I’ve met you, I feel connected to you some how. I can’t explain it.”

  Alexis touched his cheek. “Matthew, do you have dreams?”

  “Yeah, I guess I do. What are your dreams, Alexis?”

  “To be happy and to live out my written life.”

  “Your written life?” He stroked her cheek.

  “Yeah. The life that I was destined to live. What’s written is the life that makes you happy.”

  “I completely understand and I’d like that, too,” he stood up and took her hand. “Are you ready for dinner?”

  “Yes,” she followed him out.

  2

  ALEXIS stared at the bars and cried. “If only things were still that simple,” she sat up, walked over to the bars, and stared at Walter at his post. “Walter, can I get out of here and stretch my legs?”

  “What do you mean?”

  “Since I had the surgeries, they let me out a few times a day to walk around the corridor to stretch my legs. You can call and verify if you want.”

  “Don’t worry about it, Alexis,” he walked over and unlocked her cell door. “Just stay in this area.”

  “Not that I could go anywhere else,” she muttered. “Do you know when I can see Emily?”

  “I put in a call to the Sheriff. He’ll contact her through your attorney. Hopefully, tomorrow she’ll be able to come and visit.”

  “Thank you. She’s the only one I have left,” Alexis continued her walk around the corridor. “That is, if she doesn’t hate me.”

  “Alexis, are you all right?” Walter asked her.

  “Considering everything. Yeah, I’m fine,” she continued her walk without saying another word. When she was tired, she went back into her cell and laid down. “Walter?”

  He walked over and unlocked the cell. “What is it, Alexis?”

  “How does life just die?”

  “I don’t know what you mean, Alexis.”

  “Oh, nothing, don’t worry about it. I guess I’m just feeling sorry for myself,” she put her arm over her face as he walked away.

  “Alexis, Love. Come on. Wake up.”

  Alexis rolled over and gazed into Matthew’s eyes. “What are you doing here so early?”

  “I wanted to give these to you,” he handed her a bouquet of thirteen roses. Twelve were red and there was a single white rose in the center.

  “What’s this for?”

  “I wanted to say that I’m sorry,” she sat up and touched his face. “Sorry for last night.”

  “Matthew, I completely understand. If you w
ant to wait, I have no problems with it,” she smelled the roses. “What’s the white one for?” she smiled.

  “That’s the “I’m sorry” rose. The others are just, well, something,” he grinned.

  “What do you mean something?” Her eyes lit up.

  He took her hand and led her out of bed. “I want, no, I need to tell you something. Come with me please,” he whispered softly.

  She put her robe on and followed him into the living room. “Matthew, is something wrong?”

  “No, nothing’s wrong. I just need to tell you.”

  “Matthew, just say it. Whatever’s on your mind, please just say it.”

  “Alexis, Love,” he set her on the sofa and stroked her cheek. “Yes, that’s exactly it. I, um, well, I love you.”

  She smiled brightly. “You do?”

  “Yes, I think that I fell in love with you the minute you poured coffee on my lap. Yes, I love you.”

  “Matthew, I love you, too,” her lips trembled slightly.

  “And I was so nervous,” he whispered.

  “Baby, you never have to be nervous with me. Whatever’s on your mind, you have to tell me. Yes, I do love you, very much. More than you can imagine.”

  He fumbled in his pants pocket. “Um, Love, do you love me enough to marry me?”

  “Marry you?”

  “Yes, I want you to become my wife. I want you to be Mrs. Matthew Garris. I love you so much and I never want to lose you.”

  “Oh, Matthew,” she cried. “I’d love to marry you.”

  He pulled out the ring box from his pocket and handed it to her.

  She smiled as she opened the box. “Oh, it’s so beautiful.”

  “It’s not as fancy as you deserve, but—”

  “I love it. It’s beautiful. Will you put in on my finger?” she asked as she gazed at the one-carat diamond ring.

  He slowly slid the ring on her finger and kissed it once it was properly in its place. “I love you.”

  “And I love you.”

  Alexis sat up and looked around the dark room. “Walter?”

  He came over to the cell. “What’s wrong?”

  “Just wondered what time it was. It’s so dark in here.”

  “Well, I shut down the lights so you could sleep.”

  “Thanks.”

  “Are you any better?” he asked.

  “A little. It’s just so hard to sit in here and wait for my fate.”

  “Try and get more sleep. Good night, Alexis,” Walter walked back to his office and laid down on his cot.

  Alexis laid back down. “Oh, Matthew. Stay with me forever, please,” she whispered as she fell back to sleep.

  Alexis crossed her arms and turned her back. “Matthew, what do you want from me?”

  “You, Alexis. All I want is you,” his sad eyes pleaded with her. “You’re not happy like this. You never were.”

  She turned around and faced him. “But, my parents. I can’t let go of them. This is all theirs. I can’t let it go,” she dropped on the lawn.

  Matthew sat next to her. “Love, are you happy with all of this?”

  “This? This what?” she cried. “This is my parent’s house. This stuff is theirs. I can’t just let it go.”

  He put his arm around her. “Your parents have been dead for over fifteen years, Love.”

  She stood up. “Don’t you think I know that?” She spat.

  “Love, think about it. Who were your parents?”

  She rubbed her forehead back and forth with her hand. “They were the most loving people I knew. I love them so much. I miss them terribly.”

  He hugged her tightly. “I know you do. But, Love, think about it. We’ll be starting a new life together. Holding on to these things, these things that you never use, doesn’t bring your parents back.”

  “I guess you’re right. I never come here, anyway. The house is so big. I never use the yacht or the planes. I don’t even go to the island. I guess my dad liked his toys. He was such a good man.”

  “It’s still up to you. These are your things now, but these are not who you are.”

  “Oh, Matthew. I’m sounding like a spoiled brat, aren’t I?”

  “No.”

  “You hate it because I have so much money, don’t you?”

  “I love you, very much. Rich or poor, I’d still love you. My heart melted the minute I looked into your eyes. I knew I had to spend the rest of my life with you.”

  She kissed him softly. “I’ll sell all of this,” she smiled. “After we get married, I want to take you someplace special for our honeymoon, and then, after that, all the toys go. I promise.”

  Alexis rolled over in her cot and buried her head under her pillow as she cried. “Oh, Matthew. For the rest of your life.”

  “Alexis, come on, Love. I have a surprise for you,” Matthew smiled as he grabbed her arm. He pulled her close into a kiss. “How does it feel to be Mrs. Matthew Garris?”

  “I love it. Say it again, please,” she kissed him tenderly.

  “Mrs. Garris,” he touched her face. “Now, before we head off on our honeymoon, I have a surprise for you,” he led her to the car.

  “Oh, Matthew, I can’t wait. Please, tell me what it is.”

  “Not until we get there,” he started the car and drove out of the parking lot of the reception hall.

  “Our wedding was beautiful, wasn’t it?” Alexis sighed.

  “Yes, it was. I’m so glad that Emily moved up here. I really missed her. I just wish JC could’ve made it.”

  “Baby, I’m sure he’s a busy man. You did say that he was married now. Right?”

  “Yeah, I hope he’s as happy as I am. JC’s a great guy. He’s the greatest guy in the whole world.”

  “Yes, Baby, I’m sure he is, but, you are the best,” she laid her head on his shoulder.

  He pulled over to the side of the road and took her face in his hand. “Alexis, my love, you’ve made all my dreams come true. I was lost until I met you. These past few months have meant the world to me. I want you to know how much I love and will always love you. Though, it’s for the rest of our lives, death won’t stop us either. You’ve given me so much. Your love, patience, and understanding. I know how you’ve wanted to make love before our wedding night, but I know we’ll both be glad that we waited.”

  “Matthew, all I want is to be with you for the rest of my life. I love you so much. I know why you wanted to wait and I know that we’ll cherish our first night together.”

  “Love, please close your eyes, I have a gift for you.”

  “Matthew, just being your wife is my gift.”

  “This is in return for you helping me get the ‘Shop’ up and running,” he laughed slightly.

  “Shop? Baby, it’s a twenty-story building. The Garris Engineering Foundation is not a shop,” she kissed him.

  “Whatever you say, Love,” he patted her hand. “Now, close your eyes,” she closed her eyes and he pulled into the road. Down the street, he drove into a parking lot. “OK, Love, open your eyes.”

  Alexis opened her eyes and stared at the building. She quickly got out of the car. Matthew walked over and wrapped his arms around her. “What do you think?”

  “This is mine?” she cried.

  “It’s yours. The A&M Gift shop. It was your dream to open one up. We’re partners in it, as with everything, but, yes, Love, it’s yours.”

  She hugged him tightly. “I can’t believe you did this. I love you so much.”

  “Well, there’s some work to do inside, but I think we can have it up and running in about two months.”

  “Really? Only two months,” she kissed him again.

  “Yup. When we get back from our honeymoon, you can start putting your sketches together. You’ll have the gift shop of your dreams,” he led her back to the car, and opened the door for her. “Now that you’ve seen your gift, what do you say we get this honeymoon started?”

  “Oh, most definitely.”

  When t
hey arrived at the airport, they got on Alexis’ private plane. She looked over at Matthew sitting across from her. “I know that you don’t like it when I use these toys, but I figured we have access to them and our honeymoon’s so important.”

  “Love, as long as I’m with you, nothing else matters. I don’t usually like private planes, but it’s taking us to somewhere special. I’m fine with it.”

  “The island isn’t much, but it’ll be totally private. The press doesn’t even know about this place. No worries, Matthew, it’ll be just you and me. I promise.”

  “Last time, right, Love?” Matthew’s eyes sparkled at her.

  “Yes, sweetheart. It goes up for sale, the minute we get back.”

  “Love, are you sure about all this?”

  “Matthew, you were right, as always. I was holding on to these things because of my parents. Besides, I’d rather have cash accounts. It’s easier to donate. Jason will take care of everything.”

  “I know. He does act like your father, doesn’t he?”

  “Yeah, but he means well. I know he doesn’t like everything that I’m doing with Mom’s money, but I didn’t earn it.”

  “Love, you did give some of it to me for the shop,” he sat next to her.

  “Yes, but that was an investment of trust. I invested in your business because I totally, whole-heartedly trust you.”

  “And I trust you.”

  Alexis stared out the window and wondered what she ever did to deserve being happy. But it didn’t matter. Matthew makes her extremely happy. “Looks like we’ll be landing soon,” she held on to Matthew tightly. “Are you ready to really be my husband?” She flirted.

  “More than anything.”

  Alexis led Matthew into the bungalow and opened the door. “So, what do you think?”

  “Alexis, it’s beautiful. I’ve never been on a private island before.”

  “It’s nice and peaceful. I like it because you’re here with me,” she ran her hands over his chest. “Matthew, I think I’ve waited long enough. Don’t you?” She kissed him tenderly all over his face.

  “Oh, I think so,” he returned her kisses and slowly unzipped her dress, letting it fall gracefully to the floor.

  She led him over to the bed that was surrounded by white candles and red roses. She helped him remove his jacket. “I love you so much,” she whispered as she unbuttoned his shirt.

  “Alexis, my love, let me show you how much I love you,” he pulled her slip straps down her shoulders and caressed her arms gently as he kissed her chest. Slowly, he laid her on the bed. He ran his hands softly down her legs as he removed her stockings.

  She slowly pulled his belt off and unzipped his pants. He stepped out of them and laid on top of her. “Oh, Love,” he whispered.

  She pulled his face close to hers and kissed him softly. She ran her hands down his back and she pulled him closer to her. Then she wrapped her legs around his strong body and held him close. Slowly and gently, he made love to her for the first time.

  “Alexis! Time to eat!” Walter shouted.

  Alexis jumped up. “Why’d you yell?”

  “Sorry. I’ve been trying to get your attention for the last ten minutes.”

  Alexis looked around her cell. “Oh, sorry. I must’ve been somewhere else,” she said as she stood up.

  “Where were you?”

  “Far, far away. A time when Matthew was still alive,” she wiped the tears from her eyes.

  “Why don’t you come out here and eat at the table,” Walter offered.

  “Are you sure? I usually eat in my cell.”

  “Yes, I have to eat, too, you know. I don’t like eating alone.”

  Alexis slowly walked into the corridor and sat at the table that stood against the wall. She started eating her food slowly. Walter sat next to her. “So, Matthew, um, he’s your husband?” he asked.

  “What?” She looked at him. “Oh, yeah, Matthew. He was killed, but, yes, he was my husband.”

  “I’m sorry. It must be hard.”

  “It is, and being in here only makes it worse,” Alexis stared at the wall in front of her. “Much worse.”

  “I wish I could help you, but I don’t know what to do for you.”

  “Walter, you’re just a corrections officer. It’s your job to make sure I don’t cause any problems. But don’t worry, I won’t. I really want to see Emily.”

  “Is there anyone else?”

  “I’d like to see Greg Shapone, but I don’t think he’s forgiven me. It was his wife that I killed.”

  “Oh,” Walter said. “Wasn’t that self-defense?”

  “Dead is dead. I killed her and she’s dead. It doesn’t matter how or why, just that it happened,” she muttered.

  “I’m sorry I brought it up,” he finished up his soup. “Alexis, would you like something to read? I know it’s not much, but there’s a whole collection of different kinds of books.”

  “Sure, why not. It’s not like I have anything else better to do.”

  “What are you interested in?”

  “Anything you got, I’ll read. There’s not much else to do around here.”

  Walter smiled at her. “Well, I personally like this book, William Shakespeare’s Book of Sonnets, here you go,” he handed her the book.

  “Oh, this is your personal copy. I couldn’t do that.”

  “Alexis, I want you to have it.”

  “Are you sure?” Alexis smiled.

  “Just seeing you smile, makes giving it to you worth while,” he touched her cheek and quickly pulled away. He led her back into her cell and she began to read the book.

  3

  SHE looked up at the photo that she had taped to her cell wall. There they were, the six of them, Matthew, herself, John, Mary, Greg, and Amanda, posing without a care in the world. She pulled the photo down and stared at it. “I’m sorry, Greg,” she started to cry. “I never meant for you to get hurt by all of this. This should’ve never happened,” she placed the photo on her chest and began reading the book. She had hoped that reading would take her mind off of the fact that her friends were dead.

  Alexis woke up the next morning with the photo still lying on her chest. She picked it up and book marked her page with it. She looked around and noticed that Walter was just sitting outside her cell in a chair. “Walter, why are you sitting there?”

  “Alexis, you tossed and turned all night. I sat here so that I’d hear you if there were a problem.”

  “If I tossed and turned, why was my picture still on my chest when I woke up?” she asked.

  “It had fallen on the floor, so I picked it up and put it back once you calmed down.”

  “Oh, well, thank you,” she walked over to the door. “Are you guarding me twenty-four seven or is there a replacement guard?”

  “Oh, don’t worry about me. I’m here about twenty-seven. I have four one-hour breaks. At that time, Capshaw comes in.”

  “Oh, as long at it’s not Officer Robbins,” she said.

  “Tom? Why?”

  “Sorry if he’s your friend, but when he arrested me, he smelled really, really bad.”

  Walter laughed. “Yeah. It’s a smell you never get used to,” Walter walked over to his office and answered the phone. A few minutes later, he opened the cell door. “Alexis, your attorney, Mr. Abrams, is here.”

  “OK, thanks,” she said.

  He led her to the outer visitation room and hand cuffed her to the table. “I’m sorry, but regulations state that protective prisoners need to be cuffed during visits.”

  “Don’t worry, Walter. I’m used to it,” she said sadly.

  Walter stood by the door as Jason Abrams walked in. “Alexis, honey, how are you doing?” Jason said. “Oh, cuffs? Is that really necessary, officer?” he asked Walter.

  “Jason, don’t worry about it. What’s so important that you needed to see me this morning?” Alexis asked.

  Jason’s hands shook as he set down his briefcase and sat across from Alexis.
“I have some papers that need your signature,” his voice was deep and confident. It didn’t seem to fit his actual age of 60.

  “Jason, I’m a ward of the state. My signature’s pretty much worthless,” she sighed.

  “No, Alexis. There are some issues you need to be aware of. I didn’t want to tell you, but now I have no choice.”

  “Jason, what is it?”

  “Well, with the lawsuit, all your assets are frozen.”

  “Yes, I know that.”

  “But, I was looking over the finances for the gift shop and if you add Emily as a partner, it can continue operation. She can retain her profits, but yours and Matthew’s, oh, I’m sorry.”

  “What about mine and Matthew’s?”

  “Well, currently they’re frozen because of the suit. However, since the partnership was also a marriage, you inherit Matthew’s portion of the profits. Those automatically go into a trust account. Mr. Shapone and his attorneys can’t touch those.”

  “Jason, I don’t care anymore. I know they can’t touch anything of Matthew’s, even the life insurance, but I don’t want the gift shop to go downhill.”

  “Alexis, sign these papers and all will be taken care of.”

  “What exactly will be taken care of?”

  “We’ll go to court for the wrongful death suit. Just sign here.”

  Alexis took his hand. “No, Jason. Settle.”

  “Alexis, we can win this. Remember she killed Matthew. You shouldn’t have to pay for that.”

  “Jason, I’m already paying for that. Yes, she killed Matthew and I killed her. Just settle with Greg. I want this whole thing over with.”

  “What’s the number?”

  “Ten million. Offer him 10 million.”

  “Are you sure? That much?”

  “John, I killed his wife. Yes, she turned psycho, but she’s dead nonetheless,” Alexis took a deep breath. “Just do it. If he’s smart, he’ll take the money. I haven’t seen him since that night. I can only imagine how much he hates me. Just give it to him. Everything can be over and done with.”

  “Well, you know if you settle, your other assets will be unfrozen and you can be released on bail.”

  “No, Jason. The trial starts in a few weeks or so, unless there’s something I don’t know about. Is there?”

  “No, everything’s still on schedule. Jury selection will begin shortly.”

  “Good. I’ll stay in here. I’m away from other prisoners and the guard’s halfway decent. I’m fine. I’d rather it be like this. Only, I wish that Emily could visit.”

  “Didn’t you hear? She’s coming in tomorrow to see you.”

  “Oh, good,” Alexis leaned back as far as she could while still being cuffed. “Does she hate me?”

  “Has she ever hated you?” Jason asked.

  “No,” Alexis put her head down.

  “Then there’s your answer,” Jason touched her hand. “It’s OK, Alexis. You don’t have to be strong for me.”

  “I’m sorry about the problems I’ve caused for you,” Alexis cried.

  “What problems? Alexis, since the day you were born, I swore to your parents that I’d always look out for you and that is what I’m doing.”

  “I know, Jason. I know that they think I tried to escape from the hospital, but I had to go to the funeral. I needed to say good-bye.”

  “Alexis, there wasn’t any escape charges filed. You weren’t actually arrested until they found you at the funeral home, so they can’t charge you with that,” Jason looked at his watch. “I do have to go. Please take care of yourself. I’ll see you next Friday, so that we can prepare for the jury selection.”

  Alexis nodded as Jason walked out. Walter walked over, uncuffed her hands, and led her back to her cell. Alexis laid down on the cot and closed her eyes.

  Matthew walked into the gift shop. “Love, I’d like you to meet someone,” he called.

  Alexis came out of the back room. “Oh, right now? I look horrible. I’ve been doing inventory for three hours straight,” she said as she fixed her hair.

  “This is Greg and his wife, Amanda. They just moved in next door to us.”

  “Nice to meet you,” Alexis shook Greg’s hand.

  His soft brown eyes lit up as he grasped her hand. “Nice to meet you. This is my wife, Amanda,” he put his arm around Amanda.

  “Hi, Alexis,” Amanda said softly. “This is a great place that you have here.”

  “Thanks, Emily and I run it together. She’s Matthew’s sister.”

  “Sounds nice,” Amanda said as she looked around the shop. “It’s really nice in here.”

  “Thanks. We work hard, but we like what we do,” Alexis said.

  “Oh, why do you work? I know that you don’t need to,” Amanda asked.

  “Shush, Amanda. That is none of our business,” Greg said abruptly.

  “I’m sorry,” she put her head down.

  “Don’t worry about it. I guess I just don’t understand the question. I work because I like working.”

  “I mean, well, we know who you are. Everyone knows who Alexis Garris is,” Amanda smiled.

  “Oh, well, yeah,” Alexis glanced at Matthew who shrugged. “The money I inherited from my parents is primarily for donations and business corrections. The money from here is what I earned, so that’s mine, and of course, Matthew’s. He’s my silent partner,” she smiled slightly.

  Greg smiled. “Don’t mind my wife. She gets a little nosy at times,” he put his arm around Amanda and pulled her close to him.

  “We don’t mind. Can’t find out anything if you don’t ask,” Matthew said. “Well, if you two aren’t busy or anything, you can come over tonight. Our friends, John and Mary, are coming over for dinner, feel free to join us.”

  “Sounds good, doesn’t it, Greg?” Amanda asked for permission.

  “Yes, I’d think we’d like that,” he looked at his watch. “Well, Amanda, I have to get back to work and you need to finish up the laundry. We’ll see you tonight,” Greg took her hand and led her out.

  Alexis looked at Matthew. “Did I see what I think I saw?”

  “Yeah. You certainly did,” he hugged her tightly. “I’d never do that to you.”

  “As if you could,” she laughed and kissed him.

  “Well, are you almost ready?” he asked.

  “Ready for what?”

  “I’d like to take you for a ride. Emily’s here, right?”

  “Yeah, she’s in the back. Why?”

  “Let her run the store this afternoon. I want to take my wife for a ride.”

  “A ride?”

  “Yup. A ride. Oh, yeah. I forgot to show you something.”

  “Matthew, what did you do?”

  “You’ll see in a minute,” he walked to the stock room.

  Alexis became impatient and walked to the front door and looked outside. Matthew came back. “Hey, no peeking.”

  “Is that thing yours?” she asked as she pointed out the window.

  “Well, it’s ours. I know I should’ve asked you first on how you felt about them, but I thought we could go for a ride.”

  “I’ve never been on one before.”

  “You’ve never been with a motor cop before?” He teased.

  “Not funny. And, no, I haven’t,” she smirked. “Aren’t they dangerous?”

  “Not if you’re careful. Besides, there’s some place that I want to take you,” he took her hand and led her out to his new motorcycle. “Hop on, Love, and hold on tight to me.”

  “Oh, definitely,” she said nervously.

  He revved up the engine on the bike and headed out of the parking lot. He rode for about a half-hour and pulled down a dirt road. He stopped the bike at the end of the road.

  “What are we doing here?” Alexis asked.

  He turned towards her and held her in his arms. “I want us to have a place of our own.”

  “We do have a place.”

  “No, Love. We live in a house that Jason set
up for us. After you sold the diner and the apartment, Jason gave us a house.”

  “I know. I’m sorry. I can’t help how he treats me. He just wanted us to be happy and not have to worry about stuff like that.”

  “Love, I want us to have something of our own. Something we bought together. We’ve more than enough money from our businesses. I want us to buy this house.”

  She looked around. “Matthew, what house?”

  He smiled and kissed her. “This one. Here follow me,” he led her to the wide-open space of grass.

  “Baby, did you get too much sun? There’s no house there. All I see is grass and mountains.”

  “No, Love, picture it. I want to build us a house, right here. After all, I’m an engineer.”

  “I know, but won’t that take a while.”

  “No, with my connections, we can have our home built in about three weeks.”

  “You’ve got to be kidding,” she wrapped her arms around him. “Matthew, are you sure this is what you want?”

  “Love, what do you want?”

  “This. You. All of it. I want you to be happy,”

  “Then we’ll get started. I’d like one thing from you, though,” he took her hands.

  “What’s that?”

  “I’d like for you to design the inside,” he kissed her cheek.

  “Design? I’m not a designer.”

  “Love, whether you realize it or not, you’ve a great designing mind,” he kissed her forehead. “Look at how you made your sketches come to life in the gift shop. I want this house to be yours and mine. If we build it together, it’ll always be a part of us and who we are,” she sat down on the ground sadly. He sat next to her. “What’s wrong, Love?”

  “Nothing. It’s great. I love it.”

  “Then, why are you so sad? Love, you can’t hide your tears from me.”

  “I guess I’m just waiting,” she sighed.

  “Waiting for what?” He wrapped his arms around her.

  “Something bad to happen.”

  “Why? I don’t understand.”

  “It’s just that we’re so happy. Everything’s going right for us. How long will that last? Matthew, I don’t know what I’d ever do if I lost you.”

  “Love, I’m not going anywhere,” he smiled.

  “I know, I’m not either, but you never know what could happen. What if you died? What if I died? You know either one of us could get hit by a bus or something. What would we do then?”

  He laid her down on the grass and leaned over her. “Love, we aren’t going to die yet. We’re still young. But, if something ever did happen to me, just promise me that you’ll find a way to be happy. I don’t want you to spend your life haunted by my ghost.”

  “Matthew, I don’t know how I could live without you.”

  “You did it before we met. You deserve to be happy. I’m not going to die. But if, well, I did get hit by a bus or something dramatic like that, I want you to be happy. Just know that I’ll always look out for you, no matter where you are or where I am. But in life, Love, you need to be happy.”

  She kissed him. “OK, then, what if I got hit by a bus?”

  “I’d throw myself under it along with you,” he smiled.

  “Oh, no. If I died, you have to promise to do the same thing.”

  “I will. But enough about that. We’re alive, Love. Let’s make the most of being alive and happy,” he brushed her hair with his hand. “I love you so much.

  “And I love you,” she looked at him. “Are we alone?”

  He looked around. “Yeah. Love, no one lives within a few miles of here. This is all ours.”

  “Good,” she pulled him on top of her and started kissing him all over.

  “Here?” he whispered.

  “Well, this is our new home. Might as well break it in right,” she flirted as she kissed him again.

  “Get out of my head!” she cried. “Get out! Please!”

  Walter ran over to cell. “Alexis, what’s wrong?”

  “He won’t leave me,” she cried.

  Walter opened the cell and sat next to her on the bed. “Please, tell me. Who won’t leave you?”

  “Matthew. I can’t get him out of my head. He’s here. He’s been dead for a few months now and he still won’t leave,” she laid her head on his shoulder.

  Walter put his arm around her. “It’s OK. He must’ve loved you so much.”

  She looked at him as tears streamed down her face. “Yes, he did and I loved him.”

  “That’s why you’re thinking about him. Do you want to tell me what happened?”

  “I can’t,” she whispered. “It’s bad enough that I have to live it all over again during the trial.”

  “Finally got a date, huh?”

  “Yeah,” she rubbed her forehead back and forth with her hand. “It seemed to take forever. Everything takes forever. I just want to go to prison, so I can … die.”

  “You want to die in prison?”

  “Well, I can’t do it here. You wouldn’t let me,” she sighed. “Yes, I don’t want to live with the pain anymore. My husband is dead, what would’ve been our child is dead, and my two best friends are dead.”

  “I’m sorry, Alexis. How long were you in the hospital?”

  “One week. Actually, it was off and on. I was in the infirmary here for a while,” she sighed. “They arrested me after I sneaked out of the hospital to attend the funerals. They transferred me here after my last surgery. So, I’ve been sitting in here for about four months and now, they put you on me.”

  “Well, the closer you get to trial, the more they want to make sure you’re protected.”

  “No, they want to make sure I don’t kill myself before the trial is over. What good’s a dead heiress if she can’t stand trial?”

  “What’s that heiress thing about?”

  “Don’t worry about it. My parents were rich. Dead now, so I got their money. No big deal.”

  “I’m sorry if I bothered you,” Walter stood up.

  “No, that’s OK. I guess being in jail does a lot to one’s mind. I didn’t used to be like this,” she smiled slightly.

  “I’m sure you weren’t,” he looked over to his office as the phone rang. “Um, excuse me,” he walked over and answered the phone. He motioned for Alexis to stand up.

  She stood up and walked out the cell door. “What is it?”

  “Your sister-in-law’s here. Emily Martino, right?”

  “Yeah,” she smiled sadly. “Here goes nothing.”

  Walter brought her to the visitor’s room and cuffed her to the table. “Sorry,” he whispered.

  She held her breath as Emily walked into the room. Emily looked at Walter. “Can I hug her, please?”

  Walter nodded and Emily ran over to Alexis and wrapped her arms around her. “Oh, Alexis. Are you OK?”

  Alexis started to cry. “Oh, Em. I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry.”

  Emily sat down next to her. “Why are you sorry? None of this was your fault,” Emily touched Alexis’ hands.

  “I’m so sorry.”

  “Stop, Alexis. Please. I would’ve been here sooner, but they wouldn’t let me visit you.”

  “I know. Only Jason has been here,” she sighed. “Have you seen Greg?”

  Emily shook her head. “I know he’s around, but I haven’t talked with him.”

  “I never got to ask you before I was arrested, are the rings safe?” Alexis whispered.

  Emily nodded. “Yes, Both yours and Matthew’s rings are buried in his suit jacket pocket. I placed them there myself.”

  Alexis smiled as she stared at her naked finger. “Good.”

  “Alexis, why didn’t you want to keep those?”

  “Well, Em, I can’t wear them in here, and I definitely don’t want to bring them to prison with me, so, they’re in the best place they can be.”

  “Why do you think you’re going to prison?”

  Alexis stood up abruptly. “I KILLED AMANDA, DON’T
YOU GET IT!” She dropped back in the chair. “Oh, god, Em, I’m so sorry. I don’t mean to yell at you.”

  “Alexis, don’t worry about it. You’re not going to prison. That bitch killed my brother, your husband. She deserved to die. You’re not going to prison because she turned psycho.”

  “But I killed her.”

  “My brother loved you very much. You were so important to him. You still are. Even after death, he’ll watch over you. He won’t let you go to prison,” she smiled. “I did something for you.”

  “What did you do?”

  “I hired the Dix brothers. You remember, Mike and Mark. Well, Mark has been investigating the case.”

  “Em, he won’t find anything that the police haven’t.”

  “Maybe, maybe not, but it’s worth a shot.”

  “I guess,” Alexis started to cry. “Oh, god. I miss him so much. How could she do that to the most beautiful man in the entire world?”

  “I don’t know. Matthew was lost before he found you. I’m just glad that he got to share the last six years of his life with you.”

  “Em, six years is not long enough for a marriage.”

  “Nothing’s ever long enough. Don’t let the love for my brother leave your heart. Please, don’t forget how much he loved you.”

  “I won’t,” she sighed. “Did you sell the house yet?”

  “No.”

  “Why?”

  “Alexis, you and Matthew built that house. I just can’t get rid of it.”

  “It doesn’t mean anything, anymore. Even if I got out of here, I couldn’t live there again.”

  “If you really want me to sell it, I will.”

  “I don’t know,” Alexis cried. “Just wait, I guess. At least until the lawsuit is over, that way Greg can’t get the house. It’s still in Matthew’s name. Greg can’t touch Matthew’s stuff.”

  “What about the gift shop?”

  “Em, I’d still like for you to run it. I signed papers the other day. Jason added your name to the partnership. You can live off your profits.”

  “I can’t do that. It’s your dream.”

  “It was my dream. Please, Em, take care of it. I can’t let it go, but I need your help to run it. Please, be my partner,” she cried.

  “For you and Matthew, I’ll do it,” Emily stood up. “I’m sorry, Alexis.”

  “I know, Em. So, am I,” Alexis stood up and looked at Walter. “Walter, can I hug her, please?”

  He walked over and unlocked the cuffs. Emily and Alexis embraced tightly as they cried.

  “I’ll see you at the trial. I’ll be right behind you,” Emily said.

  “I know. You always are,” Alexis turned and walked back to her cell, with Walter following.

  He walked into her cell. “Alexis, are you OK?”

  She looked up. “Um, yeah, Walter. I’m OK. It’s just so hard to see her.”

  “I understand. If you need anything, just let me know,” Walter said.

  “OK. I’m just going to read for a little while,” she picked up her book.

  Walter locked the cell behind him and went back to his office.

  4

  ALEXIS tried to concentrate on her book, but her mind just flooded with the events of Matthew’s last birthday party.

  She rolled over and held Matthew tightly. “Wake up, baby.”

  He opened his eyes and smiled at her. “Good morning, Love. What are you doing up so early? You’re never up this early.”

  She kissed his mouth softly. “Well, I thought I’d give you your birthday present now.”

  “Oh, really?” He grabbed her and started kissing her.

  “Yes, and it’s not that,” she smiled. She climbed out of bed and opened her bottom dresser drawer. She pulled out her jewelry box and opened the false bottom. She took out a long, thin box, closed the jewelry box, and put it back in the drawer.

  “Hmm, so that’s where it was,” he laughed.

  “Are you telling me that you snooped?” She sat down next to him.

  “Yup,” he grinned proudly.

  “Hmm, maybe you don’t deserve this,” she teased.

  “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t find it anyway,” his eyes pleaded for his gift.

  “Oh, all right,” she kissed him and handed him the box. “Now, just remember, that I love you, so if you hate it, I understand.”

  “I won’t hate it,” he lifted the tape carefully as to not rip the wrapping paper.

  “Come on, Matthew, open it.”

  “Patience, my love,” he continued to remove the tape carefully. He pulled off the wrapping paper and folded it neatly. Finally, he opened the box and smiled. “Oh, my love, I love it.”

  “Do you really?” Her eyes lit up.

  “Yes, where’d you get this?”

  “I rummaged through your trunk from the service. I knew that you and JC had made these during basic training.”

  “You actually listened to me?” He laughed.

  “I listen,” she said. “Most of the time. But, yes, I know that you miss him. So, I had the cuff links welded together into the bracelet. Now, when you look at it, you’ll see his initials, JCO, and yours, MLG, forever.”

  He smiled as he clasped the large silver chain around his wrist. “Thank you so much. You don’t know how much this means to me.”

  “I can see it in your eyes. I wish that we knew where he was. I’d like to meet him. He sounds like a great man.”

  “He is. He’s not as good looking as I am, but he’s not bad,” he teased.

  “Oh, well, you’re definitely good looking,” she looked at him. “I still miss the uniform, though.”

  “Well, how about if I just pin one of my medals to my chest for you?” He teased.

  “That’s it,” she slapped him playfully. “I was going to let you have your way with me, but now that you’re teasing me, hmmm, I don’t know.”

  “Oh, come on, Love. It’s my birthday, after all,” he smiled sheepishly.

  “Join me in the shower?” She pulled him off the bed and led him into the bathroom.

  “Happy birthday to me,” he whispered as they climbed in the shower.

  Matthew went downstairs to the kitchen and Alexis pulled out the video camera. She joined Matthew and he handed her a cup of coffee. “What are you going to do with that?” he asked, point to the camera.

  “Well, it’s your 40th birthday. That’s a big deal,” she smiled. “I want us to remember it forever. Our best friends will be here and I want us to always remember how happy we’re right now.”

  “Oh, Alexis, I hate being on camera.”

  She smiled. “I know, but it’s your first birthday in our new home. John, Mary, Greg, and Amanda will be here. I want to cherish it. You never know, they could move away, or something. Anything could happen.”

  “Oh, I’ll only go along with it because I love you,” he leaned over and kissed her softly. “By the way, Love.”

  “Yeah?”

  “Showers are definitely the way to go.”

  She shook her head and smiled as she loaded the tape in the camera. She turned it on and focused it on Matthew.

  “Come on, honey. Are you going to follow me all day with that thing?” asked Matthew.

  “But you’re so handsome. I love you and I want to cherish this day forever,” Alexis said. A knock came from the door and she followed Matthew with the camera to answer it. There stood Mary and John.

  “Are we late?” They asked.

  “You’re never late,” Matthew said with a laugh.

  “Well, I see we beat Greg and Amanda. They’re the ones that are always late,” John said.

  “It’s for the grand entrance, I expect,” Alexis said as she followed behind them into the backyard.

  “Alexis, will you put that camera down,” Matthew started walking closer to the camera.

  “Not now. I’ll put it down once Greg and Amanda get here,” she said.

  “Oh, all right,” he laughed as he w
alked over to the Barbeque grill. Alexis focused the camera on his rear end.

  He turned around quickly. “Now you’ve gone and done it,” he smiled as he ran towards her. He grabbed her and started to kiss her. She dropped the camera as he tickled her. John and Mary joined in the laughter.

  She picked the camera back up as the doorbell rang. She ran to open the door. “Greg, Amanda, it’s about time,” Alexis laughed.

  “It’s not my fault, it’s his!” Amanda sputtered.

  “Don’t mind her, she’s in a mood,” Greg said.

  “Come on. Mandy, let’s get you a glass of wine,” Alexis said. She followed them out to the backyard with the camera.

  Matthew went up, hugged Amanda, and shook Greg’s hand. “OK, Alexis, you can put the camera down now.”

  Alexis put the camera down on the table, but left it recording. Alexis sat down at the table and picked up her glass of wine. She watched intently as Matthew tended to the grill. When she noticed the few bottles were almost empty, she got up from the table and went into the kitchen. As she opened the wine cooler, she turned around and noticed Greg standing behind her.

  “What are you doing in here?”

  “Alexis, I need to tell you something and I want to tell you now, before anyone walks in.”

  “You can tell me anything, what is it?”

  “I-I-I’m in love with you,” Greg stuttered.

  “Yeah, right. You love Amanda. Is this one of your jokes? Because it’s not very funny. If Matthew were to walk in right now, he’d—” She laughed slightly.

  “It’s not a joke. Alexis, I loved you since the day I laid eyes on you. How I’ve wanted to touch you.”

  “Greg, I’m going to pretend that you didn’t say that.”

  “Why?

  “What do you mean, why? Amanda’s your wife and not to mention that I’m truly and deeply in love with my husband.”

  “I know. I love Amanda, but she’s not you. I’m sorry. I guess I shouldn’t have told you this way. But I know how you are with honesty.”

  “Greg, you’re one of my closest friends and that will never stop. If you love me, just love me from a far and don’t bring this up again. I don’t want to lose our friendship or anyone else over this.”

  His eyes became sad. “If that’s what you want, but I’m glad that I told you.” Greg left the kitchen and she took a deep breath. She grabbed a bottle of wine and headed outside. She looked around and smiled at Matthew as she filled up everyone’s glass. “To our friendship. May it last forever.”

  Everyone raised a glass to the toast. They talked for a while, and then Amanda spoke. “So, what time are we leaving on Saturday?”

  “I was thinking about five,” Matthew said.

  “Five A.M?” Alexis exclaimed.

  “Yes, babe. Five A.M,” They all laughed.

  “Then it’s settled,” Greg spoke up. “I’ll pack up my camper and pick you all up around five A.M.”

  “This camping trip’s going to be great,” Amanda said. “Totally unforgettable.”

  Alexis jumped up. “DAMN BITCH!” she yelled. She looked around her quiet and eerie cell. She picked up the Shakespeare book and pulled out the photograph. “Oh, god. How could this have happened? It’s not fair. We were all so happy!” She held the photo to her chest and cried harder. “How could she do this to us, to all of us?”

  Walter opened her cell door and sat next to her. “Alexis, what is it?”

  She wiped her eyes as they pleaded with him. “Walter,” she whispered. “Make the pain go away.”

  He gently stroked her face. “How can I do that?” he spoke softly.

  She moved closer to him and pulled his head towards hers. “Just make the pain go away,” she kissed him softly on the mouth.

  He pulled away slowly. “I wish I could, but—”

  “Please, no one is ever around. It’s just you and me. Please, make it go away. I just need to feel, feel something besides the pain.”

  He gently wiped the tears from her face and kissed her softly on the mouth. He ran his hands tenderly up and down her back. Slowly, they laid down on the cot. He helped her remove her orange jumpsuit and tenderly caressed her chest. She reached up and fondled the gold badge that rested on his chest. She ran her hands up and down his uniform. One by one, she unbuttoned his shirt.

  He stood up for a moment and placed his utility belt outside the cell. He touched her hands and kneeled next to her. “Are you really sure?” he whispered.

  “Walter, yes,” her sad eyes drew him to her. He took his shirt off and leaned over her. She unzipped his pants and ran her hands all over his strong, husky body.

  He held her in his arms tightly. He kicked off his pants and laid down on the cot. He ran his hands over her body and kissed her softly on the mouth. “I do so want you,” he whispered.

  She ran her hands down his muscular arms and kissed him on his chest. Slowly, he made love to her. Finally, she could feel, feel something other than pain. Walter was so gentle and loving, it felt almost real.

  He touched her face and kissed her softly on the mouth. “I’m sorry.”

  She sat up and rubbed his beard gently. “Why are you sorry?”

  “Legally, I shouldn’t do this,” he said as he pulled on his pants.

  “I know. But, I wanted to. I should’ve never put you in that position,” she smiled slightly.

  He shook his head as he buttoned his shirt. “As a man, I don’t regret it. You’re a beautiful woman. Anyone in man in his right mind would want you. I do so want you and it was, well, unbelievable. But as a cop, as your guard, I shouldn’t have done it.”

  “Walter, all I can say is thank you. I haven’t felt loved since Matthew. I’m sorry. I just needed it. I needed something,” she looked down as she pulled on her jumpsuit. “I haven’t been that kind of person in a really long time.”

  “What kind of person’s that?”

  “Sex driven,” she smiled.

  “I don’t think that you’re sex driven. You just need to feel loved.”

  “I guess.”

  “And did you?”

  “Yes, Walter, you’re such a gentle man. You made me feel like a sexual woman.”

  He sat down next to her. “Can I ask you something?”

  “Well, considering we just had sex. Yeah. Go ahead.”

  “You ran your fingers over my badge. I never had anyone do that before,” he smiled.

  She covered her eyes with embarrassment. “I like shiny things,” she laughed slightly. “No, actually, I’ve been known to have a weakness for a man in uniform. But, I think it’s more about the shiny badges or the way they rest on the chest. I can’t explain it. It’s just something that makes my, well, go a little crazy. I can’t believe I said that.”

  He smiled. “That’s quite OK. Was your husband a cop?”

  She shook her head. “He was a decorated Marine,” she smiled.

  “Shiny medals, huh?”

  “Yeah,” she stood up and walked over to the bars. “I don’t know what it is about them. The uniform, itself, is so attractive. My first crush was on private school security guard. He was so attractive in that uniform and he wore a badge on his chest. It’s weird, I know, but I just find something about it so appealing,” she smiled and hugged the cell bars. “Walter, how come it’s so easy with you?”

  He stood up behind her. “I don’t know what you mean by easy.”

  She turned and looked at him. “Ever since this all started, I haven’t talked to anyone about anything. You’re just so easy to talk to and, if you weren’t, I wouldn’t have, well, you know.”

  He placed his hand on her shoulder and kissed her softly. “Alexis, we can’t ever do this again, at least while you’re in here.”

  “I know,” she nodded.

  “I’ve a lot that I want to say to you, but I can’t while you’re in here. Please, don’t let this get out. Don’t tell anyone. I could lose my badge for this.”


  “Walter, I’d never jeopardize your job. This is between you and me. No one has to know. I swear. It’s just between you and me.”

  “Good,” he looked at his watch. “Well, you better get some rest. Your lawyer will be here in the morning,” he kissed her cheek, locked the cell, and picked up his utility belt.

  She watched as he walked over to his office. “No worries, Walter. I won’t tell a soul, but thank you for saving mine,” she whispered as she closed her eyes.

  5

  WALTER unlocked her cell and led her to the visitation room.

  “What? No cuffs?” she asked.

  “Not today, Alexis,” he smiled at her as she sat down.

  Jason came into the room and placed his briefcase on the table. “Alexis, how are you doing?”

  “A little better today,” she smiled.

  “Well, something about you is certainly different. You seem a little more, I don’t know, calm today.”

  “Just a good night sleep,” she said. “So, what do we do now?”

  He opened his briefcase. “We have to go over the procedure for the jury selection and your testimony.”

  “My testimony?” Alexis asked. “I’m not testifying.”

  “Alexis, normally I wouldn’t ask a defendant to testify on their own behalf, but you were the only one that was there. Greg showed up later, remember?”

  “Jason, I don’t know what happened after she stabbed me. I don’t remember. I know that she’s dead and that I killed her. I just don’t remember.”

  He touched her hand. “Alexis, you don’t deserve to go to prison.”

  “You talked with Emily, didn’t you?”

  “Yes, Honey, I did. You’re going to be set free. It was self-defense.”

  “Jason, I hit her twenty times in the head with a cast iron pan. How in the hell’s that self-defense?”

  “Let me worry about stuff like that. All you have to do is testify about what you remember. That’s it.”

  “Jason, what if I screw up on the stand?”

  “I’ll be there to protect you. I swear. You’re not going to prison. John and I’ll protect you.”

  “Your brother John?” She smiled.

  “Yes. He’s better at these things. I’ll sit with you, but he’ll handle the questioning.”

  “I’ll do whatever you want. I’m sure that the press just loves this.”

  “Well, yeah. They kind of do. But, you have to realize that you’ll never be able to live without your preexisting reputation. Even though you went from a Rossi to a Garris, everyone knows who you are. Honey, this case is nationwide.”

  “Oh, you’ve got to be kidding.”

  “No, I’m not.”

  Alexis looked up at Walter. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

  “Tell you what?” he asked.

  “That I’m a freak show in the news.”

  “Because you’re not,” he stood his post and smiled.

  Alexis looked at Jason. “Do you have the book with you?” she asked.

  “What book?”

  “You know what book, Jason,” she glared at him. “You did follow my instructions, didn’t you?”

  “Yes, I added all the clippings to your photo album. You don’t need to see it.”

  “I want to see it.”

  “Alexis, I don’t have it with me. It’s still at your house. I’ve been keeping an eye on it. You and Matthew did have a lot of valuables.”

  “Not really. The only thing valuable in the house was us,” Tears streamed down her face. “Jason, I want everything in the house gone.”

  “No, Alexis. You can’t do this. When you get out of here, you’ll need to go home. That’s your home.”

  She stood up and slammed her fist on the table. “Damn it, Jason! That house is Matthew’s house. It’s not home because he’s not there. He’s DEAD!” She dropped to the floor. “He’s dead. Gone forever,” she cried.

  Jason and Walter picked her up off the floor and sat her down. “Alexis, I won’t sell anything until you go back to the house. At least get the things you want to keep. After that, if you still want it sold, I’ll sell it for you.”

  “I’m sorry, Jason. This wasn’t supposed to be my life. My life was not written out like this. This is just a mess. How can life start out so beautifully and end like this?”

  “Your life’s not going to end. You’ll be free again. You’ll be outside soon.”

  “I don’t want to live anymore, Jason.”

  “Alexis, yes, you do. Matthew would want you to live your life. Think about Matthew, do what he wants you to,” Jason leaned over the table and kissed her cheek. “I’ll see you Monday morning at the courthouse.”

  “Oh, Jason, what about the jury selection stuff?”

  “Oh, yeah. Basically, you sit there at the defense table while each attorney interviews the jury. We pick the good ones,” he stood up. “Alexis, everything will be fine,” he headed towards the door.

  “Jason, I’m sorry.”

  He looked at her. “I know, Alexis. I know,” he left.

  Alexis walked over to Walter. “Take me back to my cell, please.”

  He led her through the doorway and to her cell. “Alexis, are you OK?”

  “No, Walter. I’m afraid,” she sat down on her cot and curled her legs up against her chest.

  “What are you afraid of?”

  “Reliving that night,” she buried her face in her knees. “I can’t go through that again. I don’t want to lose them all over again.”

  “Alexis, I can’t begin to understand that pain that you’re going through, but if it’ll help to set you free, you need to do it.”

  “I know, but it still hurts.”

  “Alexis, you talk about Matthew and the pain of losing him, but didn’t you lose your friends, too?”

  “Yeah, John and Mary Reardon. They were my best friends in the whole world,” she smiled. “Johnny and I grew up together. We attended the same private school. It was co-ed,” she laughed.

  “You smiled,” he noticed.

  “Yeah. I guess I did. I’ve been sitting here mourning Matthew because I loved him so much. But I miss John and Mary, too. They died because they were in the wrong place.”

  “How were they as friends? I mean I know that you’re going through a lot. You have to deal with your grief here in jail. Why don’t you tell me about them? Celebrate and share their lives with me.”

  “You really want to hear the stories?” she asked.

  “We’re in here together,” he smiled as he patted her leg. “Tell me about John and Mary.”

  Alexis leaned against the wall and smiled. She closed her eyes and shared her memories with Walter.

  “Mary, come on. John’s waiting for you,” Alexis called.

  “I’m coming. Hold on,” she ran out of the bathroom. “Do I look OK?”

  “Mary, you look beautiful. I always knew that John had great taste.”

  Mary smiled. “I love him so much, Lex.”

  “I know you do. He loves you, too,” Alexis hugged her. “It’s not every day that the Governor marries people.”

  “Well, you know, John’s his number one bodyguard,” Mary laughed.

  “Yeah. Does the gun ever bother you?” Alexis asked.

  “What do you mean?”

  “I mean, has he ever tried to like, lay on you, with his gun still on?”

  “Oh, yeah. Hurts like hell,” Mary laughed.

  “Come on. He’s waiting for you down the hall,” Alexis took her hand.

  “Lex, it’ll happen for you, too,” Mary stopped her.

  “What do you mean?”

  “You’ll find someone.”

  “Mary, I’m not looking.”

  “Taking a break from cop bars?” Mary joked.

  “Very funny. I only dated, well, about six cops.”

  “Oh, only six, huh?”

  “Well, yeah. It never works out. They’re fun for a while, but there has to be more than the uniform.”
/>
  “You mean, you make them wear the uniform?”

  “Oh, yeah. Wouldn’t be the same any other way,” Alexis laughed.

  “You’ve got to be kidding,” Mary slapped her playfully.

  “I’ve just got to figure out what I want out of life. What I really want out of a man. It can’t be just based on attraction. However, that would be a great start,” she put her arm around Mary. “But, we need to go now. John hates to be kept waiting.”

  “I know. I guess I’m a little nervous.”

  “About what?”

  “Well, John’s rich, too. I’m not. I’m just a waitress at your diner.”

  “Mary, John loves you. He’s not really rich. His parents got a large sum of money from his grandparents. That’s what they used to pay for his school. And even if he was rich, he’s just like me. We both work for a living because we like being regular people.”

  “So, I’m regular people?”

  “That’s not what I meant.”

  “Lex, my parents work hard, but they’re far from rich.”

  “I know. Money doesn’t make or break a person, Mary. It’s OK. It’s all about what a person is inside. You and John are the most beautiful people I’ve ever met.”

  Mary hugged Alexis. “Thanks, honey.”

  Together they walked down the hall and into the Governor’s office. Mary took John’s hand and Alexis stood in between them, as they were married.

  Alexis looked at Walter’s face. “Am I boring you yet?”

  He shook his head. “No, Alexis, you’re not. Your face lights up when you talk about them. You’re replaying that moment in your head, aren’t you?”

  “Yeah. I almost forgot all about the day they got married. They were so happy, just starting out their life.”

  “You dated six cops?” He chuckled.

  “Yes, yes, yes,” she smiled slightly. “I dated six cops. Well, they were all State Troopers. Then I didn’t date anyone for over a year.”

  “Then you met Matthew?”

  “Yeah. I met Matthew.”

  “If you don’t mind me asking, what was he like? You’ve told me that he used to be a Marine, but what was he like?”

  She sighed heavily. The past few days all she thought about were memories of Matthew. She smiled gently. “Matthew was loving and kind.”

  “Is there anything about him that drove you a little crazy?”

  “Well, I guess. Everyone has their little quirks,” she laughed.

  “What were Matthew’s?”

  “Well, it wasn’t that it drove me crazy, but whenever he apologized, even if it were something where an apology wasn’t needed, he gave me a bouquet of red roses, with one white rose in the center. That was his ‘I’m sorry’ rose.”

  “Did he do that a lot?”

  “Yeah. But there was this one time…” she laughed as she remembered.

  “Alexis, Love,” Matthew called from the bathroom.

  “What is it?”

  He came out with a towel wrapped around his waist. “Do you mind if I borrow your car today?”

  “Why? What’s wrong with yours?”

  “Well,” he smiled. “I have to go out to a construction site today.”

  “So? You don’t want yours getting dirty?”

  “No, it’s not that. It’s just mine’s been acting kind of weird lately. It’s been stalling out on me,” he grinned sheepishly.

  “Matthew, you drove that car to New York yesterday. What’s the real reason?”

  He pulled his shirt over his head. “Oh, all right. If you must know, I have to look important.”

  She finished buttoning her blouse and hugged him. “You’re important. What’s wrong with your truck?”

  “Nothing, but your BMW is so much more impressive,” he grinned.

  “Yes, I know it is,” she laughed. “But, if you want to look impressive, why are you wearing that shirt?”

  “What’s wrong with it?”

  “It’s a tee shirt.”

  “So? It’s a construction site.”

  “Will you be building any houses?”

  “No.”

  “Then wear the suit jacket. You can wear the shirt, but wear the jacket over it. Also, don’t wear those blue jeans, wear the black ones.”

  “Are you dressing me now?”

  “If you’re going to drive my car, you’re going to look the part. Sexy, comfortable and so impressive,” she kissed him.

  “If you say so,” he held her tightly.

  “I do.”

  He put on the jacket. “So, what are you going to do today?”

  “Well, Emily has the store today so I can take care of some business.”

  “Oh, what’s that?”

  “There’s a new woman’s shelter that needs some desperate repairs. I’m going over there and see what kind of help they need. I’ll give them whatever amount they ask for.”

  “No, you won’t,” he smiled.

  “What?”

  “You’ll give them double what they ask for. You always do. That’s why I love you so much. You always do such great things.”

  “Matthew, I love you, too. I like helping people. Especially these women. It’s not like the homeless shelter that I helped last month. This one’s specific for abused women and their children. How anyone could hurt the woman he loves is beyond me.”

  “I know. I could never raise my hand to you or anyone.”

  “Well,” she smirked. “At least not to me.”

  “What? I never hit, well, I guess I did.”

  “Baby, you don’t have much of a temper, but when that man got a little pushy, you did hit him.”

  “What else was I supposed to do? He hit on my wife,”

  “I was just about to slap him.”

  “Yeah. But your hands are so dainty. I’d rather not see you hurt.”

  “There you go, being my protector.”

  He kissed her cheek. “I’ll always protect you,” he kissed her mouth. “Well, I got to go. Where are your keys?”

  “On the counter in the kitchen. Where are yours?”

  “Same place,” he walked out of the bedroom.

  Alexis walked into the house and dropped on the sofa. “I hope they enjoy their gift,” she whispered.

  Matthew walked in the room. “Oh, you’re home.”

  She turned around and looked up at him. “Matthew, what’s wrong?” He stared at her. “Matthew, um, where’s my car?”

  He slowly walked over the sofa and sat down. “Well, you see,” he reached into his pocket and handed her a small box. “Um, here.”

  She looked in his eyes and then at the box. She slowly opened it. “The broach is beautiful, but why?” She looked at the gold broach that had twelve red roses engraved on it, with a white one in the center. She turned it over and saw the words ‘I’m sorry, Love’ engraved on the back. “Matthew, where’s my car?”

  “Well, there was an accident,” he stuttered.

  “Oh, my god. Are you OK?”

  “Oh, yeah. I’m fine. Not a scratch on me,” he smiled. “Actually, I wasn’t in the car.”

  She set the broach on the coffee table, and looked at him. She held his face. “Just tell me what happened.”

  “Well, I parked the car at the site,” he started. “And then, I went into the office. After about an hour, there was a large crash. Well, more like crumpling metal,” he stopped.

  “Crumpling metal?” She raised her eyebrows.

  “Yeah. Well, I came out to see what happened,” he put his head down. “There it was, sticking out of the hood of your car.”

  “There what was?”

  “A large piece of metal. I think it was one of the braces for the building. Somehow it fell off the crane and pierced your hood.”

  “Somehow?”

  “Well, yeah.”

  “You parked my car under a crane?”

  “I didn’t know it was there. I didn’t look up,” Matthew touched her face. “I’m sorry. I re
ally am.”

  “My car. I can’t believe I let you talk me into using my car and you destroy it!”

  He touched her arm. “Love, I’m sorry,” his blue eyes pleaded with her to forgive him.

  She shook her head and smiled. “What am I going to do with you?”

  “Just love me, faults, and all,” he kissed her.

  “Is it salvageable?”

  “Um, no. It’s not.”

  “Well, then tomorrow, you’re taking the day off and buying me a new one. But this time, I want a silver one.”

  “You don’t like the gold?”

  “I love the gold, but this time I want a shiny, new silver car.”

  “I’ll do that,” he hugged her. “Do you forgive me?”

  “Yeah. I know you’ll make it up to me somehow.”

  Alexis looked at Walter. He watched her intently as she told him her story. “Walter?”

  “Yeah?”

  “Thanks.”

  “Thanks for what?”

  “At least pretending to show an interest.”

  “I’m not pretending,” he smiled. “Alexis, I really enjoy this. To be honest, besides being here, I don’t have much in my life.”

  “You don’t have any family?”

  “Well, just my mother. She lives in New Jersey. But other than her, I have no one. I was married a long time ago, but things didn’t work out. When you’re a cop, even just a corrections officer, things can make your private life difficult.”

  “I didn’t realize. I’m sorry.”

  “Don’t be sorry. I love my job. I don’t want to be a bad ass with a badge. I think that everyone deserves the chance to be happy. I try to treat people with respect. If they respect me, whether a prisoner or not, I’ll respect them. Only jackasses get treated as such.”

  She touched his hand lightly. “I’m sorry if I was ever rude to you. It’s hard being a prisoner.”

  “I know that it is. I see it every day.”

  “Can I ask you something?”

  “Sure.”

  “Why’d they pick you to guard me?”

  “Alexis, everyone here, including the sheriff, knows what happened to you and your friends. The deputy sheriff requested that I guard you. I don’t have a family to worry about with these shifts and they know how I treat people.”

  “Is that all?”

  “Well, yeah. That’s why they sent me in here. Capshaw’s a nice guy, but he treats all prisoners the same, like prisoners.”

  “He was OK. But, I’m glad that you’re here. You’ve made this a little bit more bearable.”

  “Why did you think that I was faking my interest in your stories, though?”

  She stood up and walked over the bars. “Because, I used to do that with Matthew,” she laughed slightly.

  “Oh, really?”

  “Well, kind of. He used to go on and on about his days in the Marines. I really didn’t pay attention too much.”

  “Long, boring stories, huh?”

  “Well, mostly. When he talked about his best friend, JC, I listened. Those stories were interesting. He had a great relationship with him. Kind of reminded me of John and me. We were just the best of friends. Only JC and Matthew drifted, I guess. JC used to live in Florence, Arizona.”

  “Oh, never heard of it.”

  “Well, it’s not too far from Phoenix, I guess. It’s just a small town. Not much around.”

  “Sounds nice.”

  “Yeah. I’ve only lived around here, except when I went to private school.”

  “Were you a spoiled rich kid?”

  “No. I wasn’t brought up that way. My parents were great. They did so much with their money. I mean, yes, they spent it on fancy toys and a big, huge house, and sent me to the best schools, but I was taught to work for my money, just as mom did.”

  “Are your parents still alive?”

  “No,” she shook her head sadly and sat next to Walter on the cot. “They died in a car accident a long time ago. A drunk driver broadsided their limo when they were on their way home from a fundraiser. They died instantly.”

  “Oh, I’m sorry. I kind of thought that your lawyer was your father.”

  “No, he just acts like it. Jason’s a good man. He was my parent’s lawyer. He does everything. He’s such a smart man. A lot of attorney’s will handle certain types of law, but Jason, he keeps studying more and more. He usually handles business and estate kind of stuff, but he’s a great defense attorney, even if I don’t agree with him.”

  “Well, he does have your best interest at heart, Alexis. I can tell.”

  “Yeah. He does. He’s always been my protector,” she jumped up. “But, I don’t want a protector. I want to handle things on my own. Matthew died because he was trying to protect me, and look where that got him.”

  Walter stood up and touched her arms. “We all need someone to take care of us, now and then.”

  She pushed him away. “No. Not if it means dying. I don’t ever want anyone to protect me again.”

  “Alexis, if you want to be the one to protect yourself, then testify. I know that you’re scared. Alexis, the only way you can really take control and take care of yourself, is to testify.”

  “I know, I told Jason I’d do it, but what if, what if I?”

  “What if you lose?”

  “No. What if I win? What if I walk out of the courthouse a free woman? Will I really be free?”

  “Alexis, you’ll never be free if you go to prison. Think about it. If you don’t want your old life, just make a new one,” he walked towards the door. “Just think about it. Write your own life.”

  Alexis laid down on the cot as Walter locked the cell. “Good night, Walter. And thank you.”

  “Good night, Alexis.”

  6

  ALEXIS woke to arguing between Walter and Capshaw. She pretended to be asleep to hear what they were saying to each other.

  “Wheeler, what is it with you?”

  “Give me a break, will you?” Walter spat. “She’s just a prisoner, that’s all.”

  “Yeah, right. She’s just a prisoner. She’s a damn heiress. She killed someone. She’s not your ordinary scumbag, Walter.”

  “Just leave her out of this. After the trial, she’s gone. Whether she goes to prison or is set free.”

  “You and your special favors! You’re giving her extra special favors, aren’t you?”

  “If I weren’t on duty, I’d knock you into the middle of next week. I don’t give special favors to anyone. She’s behaving herself. Hey, Capshaw, she’s an actual person. You do know what people are. Don’t you?”

  “Yes, real people live outside this world.”

  “No, Jack. Not everyone one that’s in here deserves to be. Alexis, I mean, Garris, doesn’t deserve this. She lost her husband and friends.”

  “She killed one of her friends.”

  “Only because that supposed friend killed her husband. Jack, just lay off. I’m doing my job. Nothing’s interfering with my job.”

  “Sorry, Walter, I didn’t mean to imply anything.”

  “Just drop it. I’ll be back in the blocks in a few weeks,” Walter walked back to his small office and Capshaw left.

  Alexis sat up and stretched. “Morning, Walter,” she didn’t want him to know what she heard.

  “Morning, Garris,” he muttered.

  “Oh, did I do something wrong?” she asked.

  “No, it’s nothing. I’m sorry, Alexis,” he stepped out of the small office. “Are you hungry? Breakfast is already here.”

  She stood up and walked over to cell as he unlocked it. “Thanks, Walter.”

  “No problem. Go enjoy your food. I’ve got work to do,” he walked over to his office.

  As she ate, she could feel his eyes on her. But when she looked up, he’d go back to reading his paper. When she finished, she went back into her cell and closed the door. She curled up on the cot and started reading through the stack of books that laid on the floor.
r />   Walter came over to her cell after a little while. “Um, Alexis, are you OK?”

  She looked up from her book and smiled. “I’m fine, but you don’t look so good.”

  “Can I come in?”

  “You’re the boss,” she smiled. “Walter, I heard you and Capshaw this morning.”

  “Oh, you did?” He sat down on the cot.

  “Yeah, I did. You don’t have to talk about it. Please, don’t worry. I won’t say anything about us. I swear. That one night won’t ever happen again.”

  “What are you reading?”

  “Oh, this?” She looked at the cover of her book. “It’s called Business Ventures. It’s basically a book about finances and how company stock values rise when the employees have stock options.”

  “Oh, sounds interesting,” he smiled.

  “No, it’s not really interesting, but it’s informative. I used to be involved in business corrections.”

  “Business corrections?”

  “That’s what I call it. It’s when a business or company’s failing or going to be sold. If employees are allowed to buy stock, the company becomes stronger. It helps them keep their job, and they work harder because they own the company they work for.”

  “Oh, did you do this a lot?”

  “Well, I did it for a few small companies. I used to donate to good causes, like shelters and hospitals,” she sighed. “I owned a few businesses in my time, but well, now, it’s different.”

  “Do you still own any businesses?”

  “Well, I have my gift shop. The A&M gift shop over on Median Avenue. Matthew’s shop,” she smiled slightly. “The Garris Engineering Foundation is still around. I have to sell that soon. I have a few potential buyers. But right now, those are the only two businesses I have left.”

  “I didn’t mean to butt into your financials. I was just curious as to why you were reading all these business and technical books.”

  “That’s quite OK. One thing I could always control is my businesses. I’m not technical or have any special talents, but even when life’s falling apart around me, I can handle my own in business.”

  “I guess we all have things that keep us together.”

  “Yeah, I just want to fall apart, but I know I can’t yet,” Alexis cried. “I still don’t understand how this could happen.”

  “Well, I’ll leave you to your reading. I have some paperwork to do,” he got up and locked the cell behind him.

  She continued to read her book and then all of a sudden she stopped and stared at the next paragraph. She whispered the words out loud. “Several companies have tried to focus their energies on the wallet, rather than their employees. Where skills and resources keep the business alive, CEOs are looking at the pocketbook. There are, of course, exceptions. The Rossi Carpet Saver Incorporation, a family owned business, set the standard for valuing its employees. All employees are given the opportunity to purchase stock upon hiring. Even after the loss of its Owner, Marjorie Rossi, this tradition has grown. The Rossi CEO and President, Alfred Abrams, has been determined to keep this alive. Mr. Abrams took on the position after Mrs. and Mr. Rossi passed away in a tragic accident. Alfred and his brother, Jason, the family attorney, keep the business running.”

  Tears streamed down her face, as she continued to read. “Though Alexis Rossi-Garris is the sole heiress to the estate, she had the unique business sense to preserve her family’s legacy and keep the business as employee owned,” she paused as she took a deep breath. “During the past two years, other companies have tried to follow suit. The Welch Corporation, which is actually a partnership between brothers, Steven and Paul, buys failing companies and tries to turn them into profits. Steven Welch is most famous for buying skilled resources for his companies to give them the edge to keep thriving. Paul and Steven own several companies through out the United States, but their primary ventures are located in Arizona,” she sat back in the cot and smiled. “Hmm, maybe I should take them up on the offer.”

  She looked up and noticed that Walter was standing at her cell. “Did I disturb you?” he asked.

  “No. Sorry, I was just reading out loud.”

  “Oh, what were you saying?”

  “Oh, the Welch Corporation. They’re one of the offers I have to consider for Matthew’s firm.”

  “Oh, that’s a big company, isn’t it?”

  “Yeah, I’ve never met either brother, but I’ve read good things about them,” she sat back. “Did you need something?”

  “Oh, yeah. Time for your walk,” he smiled.

  She laid the book on the cot and stood up. She stretched. “Yeah. I guess I do need to exercise these legs.”

  He unlocked the cell and opened the door. “What did happen to you, anyway?”

  “Oh, it’s just the stab wound. She stabbed me in the back. Nothing major, but it’s my lower back so after a while, my legs stiffen when my back starts to hurt.”

  “Any permanent damage?”

  “Well, kind of. Yeah,” she sighed. “Can’t have any more children. This scar will be with me for the rest of my life.”

  “Oh, Alexis, I’m sorry,” he watched her walk around the corridor. “You said any more children, do you have kids?”

  She turned and faced him. “No. I was only a few weeks pregnant, when this all happened. I didn’t even know about it, until after.”

  “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to bring it up.”

  “Don’t worry about it. I don’t have to worry about having a family. My family’s dead. Matthew and the child are gone,” she sat on the floor. “She took away everything from me. I have nothing left.”

  Walter walked over to her. “It’ll be OK. Alexis, when you get out of here, just try and make a life for yourself. You deserve to be happy.”

  “I don’t know if I can. But, then again, I don’t think I’ll ever be out of here again,” she sighed.

  He stretched out his hand to hers and she pulled herself up. “Thanks, Walter,” she smiled.

  “At least, you’re starting to smile.”

  “For you, maybe. I haven’t really smiled in a while, but you’ve made my stay here, well, a little less inhibiting,” she walked over to her cell and sat down. She picked up her book and finished reading.

  “Oh, god! Walter! Help me,” she cried.

  He ran over to the cell. “What’s wrong?”

  “My back. Something’s wrong with my back,” she cried in pain as she hunched her body over.

  Walter opened up the door and lifted up the back of her shirt. “Oh, god, Alexis. Your scar’s all red and swollen. Hold on. I have to call for help.”

  “It hurts, Walter. It hurts really bad.”

  A few minutes later, he came back with Officer Capshaw. “Hold on. We’re taking you to the infirmary,” Walter carefully picked her up in his arms. Capshaw held her head as she fainted from the pain. Slowly, they made their way to the infirmary.

  Walter laid her down on the bed, while Capshaw brought in the doctor. “Doctor, what’s wrong with her?”

  “I don’t know. I think her scars are infected. Wounds like that take forever to heal. I’m sure the materials in these damn jumpsuits don’t help, either.”

  “What do we do now?”

  “I’m calling an ambulance. She has got to be treated at the hospital that did her surgeries,” The doctor left the room, followed by Capshaw.

  Walter held her hand. “It’s OK, Alexis. Just wake up.”

  Her eyes fluttered. “Walter, what happened?”

  “Your scar’s infected. They’re taking you to the hospital. You’ll be fine.”

  “It hurts, really bad,” she cried.

  “I know. I’ll be right with you. I promise. After all, you’re my prisoner,” he smiled softly.

  “Thank you,” she closed her eyes again.

  7

  ALEXIS woke up to find herself handcuffed to the bed. She looked around the room and there was Walter standing next to the door. “Walter, where am I?”r />
  “You’re in the hospital. They’re going to release you tomorrow.”

  “Oh, tomorrow?” she sighed. “Oh, what’s wrong with my back?”

  “The doctor will be in shortly. They’ve already taken care of you, but I’ll let him tell you what happened.”

  She closed her eyes and muttered. “I hate hospitals.”

  He smiled and leaned up against the wall. “Well, it’s just one more night.”

  There was a knock on the door and Walter answered it. “Yes, come in doctor. She’s just brooding. Don’t mind her.”

  The doctor smiled at her. “Alexis, I’m Doctor Feinstein. Do you remember me?”

  “Yes, doctor, I do. What’s wrong with me?”

  “Well, Alexis. The material that the jail issued jumpsuits are made out of have infected your scars. I don’t know what’s in those suits, but the shirt rubbing against your raw scars caused the infection.”

  “Oh, boy,” she sighed. “What do I do now? I have to wear them. I’m in jail.”

  “No. I already talked with the Sheriff. You will be allowed to wear a few orange, sorry about that, orange sweat suits.”

  “Well, that’s good. I guess,” Alexis said. “I don’t want any special attention or anything.”

  “Well, if the infection had gotten any worse, you would’ve completely lost your uterus and ovaries.”

  “Doctor, they’re already damaged. I don’t care about that anymore.”

  “I’m sorry, Alexis. Do you want to speak with your regular doctor?”

  “Dr. Lewis? Oh, please may I?”

  “Yes, he’s in the hospital today. I’ll page him,” said Dr. Feinstein as he left the room.

  Alexis covered her eyes with her arm. “Walter, I’m sorry.”

  He walked over to her. “Why are you sorry? You’re the one that hurts.”

  “It’s just that here I am again, needing special attention. First they gave me you, not that I mind. And now, I have to wear regular clothes, they may be orange, but I’m sure they’re more comfortable.”

  Walter smiled. “Stop it. Just stop it. I called your sister-in-law. She’s bringing your new clothes and your suits for the trial.”

  “She is?” Alexis sat up slowly. “Really? Can I see her?”

  “I’ll think about it,” he smirked.

  “You’ll think about it?”

  “Yes, you can see her if you stop this. You’re a wonderful woman in a bad situation,” he walked over and touched her face.

  There was a knock on the door and he answered it. “Yes, come in, Doctor.”

  Alexis’ eyes lit up when she saw Dr. Lewis. “Doctor Lewis, thank you for coming.”

  He sat down on the bed next to her. “Alexis, you’re going to be just fine.”

  “Now that you’re here, I am. I just feel much better.”

  “Alexis, I’m sorry about everything that you’re going through. Dr. Feinstein has put you on antibiotics and they wrapped up the scar. Keep the bandage on for at least a week. Since they’re giving you new clothes to wear, you should be fine. Are you getting exercise?”

  “Yes, I take walks in the corridor.”

  “I see,” he smiled at her and held her hand. “You’ll be fine. Alexis, when this is all over, come and see me. You’ll need a complete check-up.”

  “Doctor, what if it’s not over?”

  “Alexis, I’ve known you your entire life. It’ll be over. Remember don’t bury the pain. I do know how you are,” he smiled as he left the room.

  Alexis nuzzled into her pillow and smiled.

  “Alexis, are you all right now?” Walter asked.

  “Yes, fine. I guess I’ll be OK,” she closed her eyes as her mind wandered.

  Alexis sat in the waiting room. Her knees shook up and down as she waited. “Ms. Rossi, the doctor will see you now,” Alexis followed the nurse down the long hallway and into the doctor’s office. “Doctor Lewis will be here soon.”

  Alexis nervously rubbed her forehead back and forth with her hand. Dr. Lewis came in behind her and put his hand on hers. “Alexis, why are you so nervous?”

  “Um, well, doc, it’s been a while since I’ve been here.”

  “I know. Why did you need to see me? What’s so important?”

  “Well, I don’t know if you knew this or not, but I’m getting married soon.”

  “Yes, Alexis, I heard that. That kind of news goes public quick,” he laughed.

  “Well, yeah,” she put her head down.

  “Alexis, look at me. You’re getting married, so what’s going on?”

  “Well, Matthew and I haven’t, well, had sex yet. He wants to wait until we’re married,” she blushed.

  “I understand. Don’t see that very often anymore, but good for you two. I still don’t understand why you’re here.”

  “Well, as you know, in the past, I’ve slept with a few men,” she took a deep breath. “I guess I just want to make sure that I’m OK and I want to see if I can have children. Not all of my, well, encounters, were protected.”

  He leaned back in the chair. “Yes, to serve and protect, doesn’t always, does it?”

  “Very funny, doc,” Alexis laughed. “And for the record, Matthew’s not a cop.”

  “Are you sure that you’re ready for this?”

  “Marriage? Yes, doc. Matthew and I love each other very much.”

  “If you’re sure. You have to remember, I’ve taken care of you for a long time. I know how you got when your parents died. Alexis, you can’t look for love through sex. It just doesn’t work.”

  “I know, doc. Yes, I know that I buried the pain and looked to make myself feel better, in the wrong way, but it’s different with Matthew. He loves me. He really does. And, yes, I love him. I’ve never been in love with anyone, but I love him.”

  “Good. I just needed to make sure,” he smiled at her. “Alexis, I know that you’re worried, but you’ve been very good at getting check-ups. Let’s go in the exam room, and I’ll run some tests.”

  “Thanks, doc,” she smiled as she followed the Doctor.

  “Alexis, honey, are you awake?” Emily asked.

  “Oh, Em?” Alexis rubbed her eyes. “It’s so good to see you.”

  “Are you OK?”

  “Yeah. Just a little infection, no big deal,” Alexis looked at Walter. “I see he decided to let you see me,” she smiled.

  “Yeah,” Emily sat next to her. “Has Jason been here yet?”

  “No, why?”

  “Alexis, do you realize how long you were out?”

  “No, today’s Saturday, right?”

  “Um, honey, it’s Thursday. You’ve been out since Saturday,” Emily touched her hand.

  Alexis glared at Walter. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

  “I’m sorry. I didn’t want to upset you.”

  “Upset me? I missed the jury selection?” Alexis asked.

  “Yes, I’m sorry. Jason stopped by yesterday. He’ll see you at the jail tomorrow,” Walter explained.

  Emily stared at Walter. “I can’t believe you didn’t tell her.”

  “That’s OK, Em. Don’t worry about it,” Alexis said. “Walter, what else didn’t you tell me?”

  “Your trial starts Monday. That’s all I know. Jury selection only took three days. Jason will see you tomorrow to prepare the case with you. I’m sorry that I didn’t tell you. I didn’t get the chance.”

  “Alexis, I’ll see you in the courthouse on Monday. I brought some sweats for you and a couple of your suits for the trial,” she kissed her cheek. “Take care of yourself.”

  “Bye, Em,” Alexis leaned back in the bed. She looked at Walter. “Thanks for letting her come and see me.”

  “It’s not a problem. And, no, it’s not a special favor,” he winked at her. “Get some rest.”