Tangled Web

by Yolanda Buick

  Alan looked at Daryl, his face buried in his hands. This was his fault. If he hadn’t persuaded him to come out tonight and to this party, he wouldn’t be in this mess.

  “What’s the matter with you?” Daryl called out.

  “Me? I shouldn’t be here, but hanging with you…”

  “Oh, don’t blame this on me. You’re grown man and can make your own decisions. You probably liked what you got tonight anyway.”

  “Like? I don’t even know what the hell I got. Damn, Alison is going to kill me!”

  Alison? I know you’re not thinking of telling her about this.”

  “Look, Daryl, this was wrong and I don’t keep any secrets from my wife. We can talk about this.”

  “Listen at you. If something happened in this room she doesn’t need to know. I mean you don’t know if anything happened. We were ruffied and maybe we shouldn’t have been here, but hey, man, it’s not worth telling her. See, then you’re going to have her wondering every time you go out what you are doing.”

  Daryl had a point because this type of scene wasn’t going to happen anymore. He didn’t need Alison down his back every time he went out. Hell, she was in New York, how did he really know what she was doing?

  Chapter 9

  Alison

  Alison thoroughly enjoyed her week with Tim. They dined at New York’s exquisite restaurants and Tim was a perfect gentleman. He didn’t attempt to get between her legs, though most men would’ve planned it as part of the week’s visit. Alison was a bit curious as to why she hadn’t heard from Alan since Wednesday. Usually a daily ‘I love you’ or ‘goodnight’ would be all that was said, but nothing in the last few days.

  “Hey, girl, are you finished packing in there yet? I have breakfast ready.”

  The aroma of buttermilk pancakes and maple sausages wavered in the air. “Yes, I’m done.”

  In the kitchen, the table setting was a page from a home magazine. White plates, frosted glasses that had a yellowish tint, bright green and yellow napkins were folded perfectly, and silverware that had an ancient look to it. Scrambled eggs were in a yellow dish next to a green bowl that held fresh sliced strawberries. Hash browns completed the meal.

  Who would think a man could do this. In the center of the table a single daisy flower bathed in water.

  “Do you like?” Tim smiled and led Alison to her seat.

  “Yes, I love the entire setting. Where did you learn to cook and set a picture-perfect table?”

  “Felicia. She was studying to be an interior decorator.”

  Alison nodded in approval. “Oh, I’m sorry, Tim, I didn’t mean to—”

  On the way to the airport Alison thought about Alan. She couldn’t imagine losing him, a part of her. She could feel Tim’s pain. She reached for his hand and gave him a smile.

  From the parking lot to the security check point no words were exchanged. Hand in hand, the two smiled. Tim gently stood back and gazed upon Alison, staring deep into her eyes. He kissed her lightly on the lips. Alison did the only thing she could, say goodbye and precede through security.

  ***

  As a drummer beats his drums, fierce rain pounded the airplane, which hovered over Atlanta until it was safe to land. Alison couldn’t wait to get her carry-on luggage and find her handsome husband. Dressed in a throwback jersey, blue nylon shorts, Nike Airforce Ones, and tons of gold chains a man in front of Alison chatted continuously with a flight attendant about his bachelor pad. No wonder he was a bachelor. She said excuse me three times before the man decided to move. When he turned around and saw her in a hot pink halter top and a white denim mini skirt, his attention immediately turned from the flight attendant. He told Alison how much he enjoyed her pictures and dreamed of meeting her.

  “Baby girl, look at you, you so fine. I can’t believe I’m standing right here graced by your beauty.”

  “Excuse us.” The rest of the passengers huffed.

  The annoying man kept talking. “Yo, Alison, can I get them digits. Maybe we can hook-up or something, you know what I mean?”

  “No, I don’t know what you mean and I’m quite sure if you know who I am, you know that I’m married.”

  “Girl, I know all that, I ain’t trying to take you away from your football-playing husband, I just want to spend a little time with. I know you ain’t one of those stuck-up hoes that think she’s too much for a simple guy like me.” Alison tried to interrupt, but he kept going. “Dig this, I will show you all the finer things in life, work hard for you, show you what a real man is about.”

  Alison looked around for hidden cameras. Was she being punked? “Look, real man…I’m honored that you feel you can give me the world, but I’m not interested okay, may I get pass please?”

  She made it to baggage claim and Alan stood near. Hands in pocket and half smile he didn’t come to her.

  “Hey, baby, I missed you.” He planted a kiss on her lips.

  “I missed you too, Alan, more ways than one.” She secretly rubbed him. To her surprise he stepped back and tried to remove her hand. “Baby, why are you moving my hand?”

  “We’re in public that’s all.”

  “And—”

  “And...all I’m saying is we can wait until we get home, honey. That’s it.”

  She didn’t know what to think. They never had a problem with public display of affection.

  They walked to the parking garage after getting Alison’s luggage, not saying a word to each other, but in a close embrace. She was so hot, her panties felt like a hole had burned through. She planned what she was going to do to him. Finally, they made it to Alison’s Lexus.

  “Honey, are you all right?”

  He fidgeted. “I’m fine, Alison, why do you ask?”

  “I don’t know, you seem a little nervous or something.” She shook her head.

  From the moment she touched him, he was different.

  “Ah, baby, I’m fine really. I guess I’m going through a phase. Our first game, the pre-season game.” He quirked.

  “You don’t have anything to worry about. You’ll do fine and I know Daryl will be there by your side like a big brother. Besides, this isn’t your first rodeo. Alison liked Daryl even though he was a lady’s man, but always treated her with high respect and love.

  “Before I forget your friend Tonya called for you. She wants to come by.”

  “Really? Well, I’m kind of tired and I’m looking forward to spending time with you this weekend.

  Her visit to New York was good, but being back with Alan was even better. Comfort hit Alison as she walked through the door. She removed her sandals and her toes sank into the plush carpet. She plopped down on the sofa and lay her head back. Alan struggled with the luggage while Alison sat still.

  She flinched when the phone rang. “I’ll get it!” She skipped to the fireplace where above on the mantel piece sat a cordless unit. “Hello?”

  “Hey, girl, what’s up? I was wondering when you were coming back.”

  Why didn’t the girl wait until she returned the call? “Alan told me you called.” Trying to sound as easy as she could Alison continued, “Tonya, I was going to call you later once I settled in.”

  “I don’t mean to interrupt anything, but I just wanted to let you know that the Underground is having a big sale tomorrow and I’m taking Asia. Do you want to come along? We’ll make it a girl’s day.”

  “That sounds nice, but I was really looking forward to spending time with my husband.”

  “Finally, she said with disappointment, “Guess I’ll see you Sunday then. That is if you guys are coming to church.”

  “Yes, we’ll be there. See you then.”

  Alan finished putting the luggage away. His eyes were sullen, mouth drooped and his pace was slow. Alison had just what he needed to be pepped up. “Come here, baby, sit right here between my legs while I massage your shoulders.”

  He hesitated then sat down against the sofa, his back to Alison. She massaged around his broad shoulder
s, making her way to his neck. He sighed and breathed deeply. With the ball of her hand, she kneaded back and forth across the blades of his shoulders. She tilted his head back and kissed him softly on the forehead. He turned, positioned himself on his knees, his arms around her waist, he buried his head in her breasts. “Alison, I love you.”

  ***

  Sunday morning while they were having breakfast, Tonya called to confirm they were coming to worship. She was going to save them a seat next to her and Asia near the middle section in the sanctuary. Alison frowned.

  “Alan, I’m not going today.” She continued to eat.

  “What. Why?”

  Squinted eyes peered over the rim of her glass; Alan felt a knot in his stomach.

  “I don’t feel like going today, no reason. You go and be holy for both of us.” She sat the glass down.

  “Baby, did I say or do something?”

  “For crying out loud Alan. Why do you think everything is about you? I said I didn’t feel like going. You think you did something. Did you do something?” She shook her head and exhaled heavily.

  Alan held tightly onto his plate. “You know Alison, I don’t get you. One minute you’re happy and the next you’re upset. Whatever is going on with you, you need to take care of it.”

  She took another long and slow swallow of her juice. “Have a good day at church.”

  Sending its blistering rays, the noon day sun was in full effect. Across from the pool stretched out on a multi-colored lounge chair Alison sipped water with a lemon wedge dancing in it. The sun beamed. A light breeze floated between her toes, circled her face, and feathered her hair. How could he go ahead without her? Does he really think she was losing it? She continued to sip on the ice-cold infused water.

  She jumped from the chair. Found music on her phone. She danced to the tunes, twirling and bopping her head. This is much better than going to church. A beep interrupted her tunes.

  “Hey, baby.” Alan spoke quietly.

  “Hey. How was church? Are you on your way home?”

  “Church…”

  “What’s wrong now Alan?”

  “Church was nice baby. Sure, would’ve been better to have you there with me.”

  “I’m sorry. I didn’t want to go.”

  “Alison, I have to ask you something. Did you stop taking your birth control pills?”

  “What? Why would you ask me that?” She twirled a few strands of hair. “Yes, I did.”

  That was a lie. Alison wasn’t going to stop. She didn’t want children now or maybe never. She felt some kind of way leading Alan on all these years. A person can change their mind.

  Chapter 10

  Drew

  Janice, wake up. You’re going to be late for your appointment. You know how your stylist is.” Drew didn’t understand why she had to have a hair appointment at seven a.m., yet she could never get up on time. She knew her stylist, James, don’t play the late game. He’d take other clients in a heartbeat.

  “I’m tired, baby, do I have to get up?” She pulled the comforter to her neck.

  “If you want that mess on your head done, yes.” When she didn’t wrap her hair with a silk scarf at night, Lord God, give them all grace because she was the perfect example of a bad hair day. Janice’s hair was very coarse and needed much maintenance to keep a pretty sleek look.

  She could lie here all morning if she wanted, he had to get to work. He was excited because some time had passed since he’d seen Mallory. She’s been on vacation. When he hired her, he told her she could keep her scheduled days.

  “Janice, it’s 6:30, I ain’t telling you anymore. If you want to miss your appointment all together so be it.”

  “I rather miss my appointment doing something productive.” She peeked over the comforter. “It’s my day off, I want to play, rest, and play some more.” She massaged Drew’s thigh.

  “Come on baby, I can’t be late for work.” Drew couldn’t get a good picture of him and Janice doing the nasty right before he was about to see Mallory. He needed a clear conscience to see her.

  “What do you mean come on?” Janice tossed the comforter back. “Many times, you have gone in late, just so you can get a quickie. What’s up with that, Drew? You ain’t touching me anymore so who is she?”

  Drew almost pissed on himself. She never accused him of sleeping with anyone and the one time she does, she was right. “I ain’t messing around with anybody.” He glanced at her then away.

  “Oh yeah, you mother. —”

  “You better watch your mouth!” He pointed at her.

  Pointing at herself, “Don’t you tell me to watch my mouth. You need to watch who you’re putting your wet, limp, noodle into.” As she sat there, arms now folded she yelled, “I found a condom wrapper in your car!”

  She was snooping in his stuff! But he was so stupid to leave that kind of evidence around. “There must be some kind of misunderstanding because I haven’t slept with anyone, baby. That wrapper, I don’t know how it got there.

  She looked at Drew with her mouth tight, squinting, and arms still folded.

  Drew had a one-time thing with Mallory in the back seat before she left on vacation. As they were in route to JFK, she touched him and said how much she wanted to mount him at that moment. He couldn’t resist. Her massages were strong and long, which convinced Drew to pull into a dimly lit park. He remembered taking off the condom, placing it in the wrapper, and tossing it out the window. He knew he did. Or did he? At least she didn’t say she found the condom itself because Janice would have had the sperm tested. Drew tried to remain calm and figure out a first-class lie.

  “Honey, look. I don’t know when I gave you reason not to trust me, but you are the only one I want and will ever need.”

  “Humph! That’s a bold face lie and the truth ain’t in you!”

  “What are you talking about now?” He tried to distract her from the earlier topic.

  “You still in love with Alison.”

  Drew didn’t think Janice would ever say that name again. They moved on since the incident in college. He could never tell her that he was, indeed, still in love with Alison.

  “Aren’t’ you, Drew?”

  Now at seven a.m. he was definitely late for work. Time didn’t stand still, not for a second.

  “Am I what?” He wrestled with putting on a watch.

  “Still in love with Alison?” Tears fell down her cheeks.

  It took everything Drew had, to lie. “No, I am not. I’ve always cared for her, but I’m not in love with her. Do you know how longs it’s been since Alison and I were together? Too many years and we both moved on. I love, you Janice, you’re my number one.”

  Drew had to get out of there. Now was a good chance—she had lowered her arms and stopped crying. He only had to make her feel secure and that they were okay, but he was the one with a problem. That problem was totally getting over Alison. He needed to see and talk to her. The way their friendship ended had caused a void in his life. Some way he had to talk to her then maybe Drew could get on with his life with his wife the way it should be. Not womanizing and bedding every woman he thought would take his mind off Alison.

  “Janice, I love you and, baby, I promise when I get in this evening, we can talk about whatever you like, but I really need to go. Call me later if you feel you still need to talk, but I have to get a move on it and so do you. Go get your hair done, boo.” He kissed her.

  The ride to work was terrible and Janice made sure of that. Now, Drew didn’t have a single thought of Mallory, but he couldn’t help thinking of Alison. When he finally made it to work, Drew tirelessly pushed the up button and waited for the elevator. On his work floor, a few secretaries lingered in and out of the break room carrying mugs, some with strings hanging over, sipping the hot beverage. He didn’t see Mallory among the staff, which was good he wanted to avoid her for a while, so he could gather his thoughts. Drew exhaled when he didn’t see her sitting at her desk and walked at high-speed, giv
ing quick hellos. Just when he reached for the handle to his office door, Mallory popped up behind. Drew dropped his briefcase. When a dog is up to no good the slightest thing makes’em jumpy, he thought.

  “Hi, Drew.” Mallory quietly sang.

  He pivoted while bending down to pick up the briefcase. “Good morning, Mallory. I see you’re back. How was your vacation?”

  “Good. It would’ve been better if you had come,” she whispered.

  “I’m glad you enjoyed yourself. Listen, I have a lot of work to do and hold my calls except for Janice of course—put her through.”

  Mallory’s face turned a cherry red. “Sure, but can we talk?”

  “Not now, Mallory. I really have a lot of work to do. Maybe later is that okay?”

  “Yes, it can wait, but not for long.”

  He became tired of women wanting everything to be in the now.

  “Are you okay, Drew, you seem a little annoyed?”

  Damn, maybe he should’ve just ditched work and Janice for the day. “Mallory, I’m fine. Now, will you excuse me. One thing—will you ask Tim to come see me ASAP.”

  “I’ll get him. He was down the hall showing off—”

  “Mallory, just get him please…thank you.” They stared at one another. Drew took a few moments again to gather his thoughts. He didn’t intend on being blunt with Mallory, but his day was not getting any better.

  While he waited, Drew, placed a manila folder with the words in black print, Deadlines, on the center of his desk. Looking through the drawer, he pulled out another folder that was red titled, New Complaints.

  “Hey, man, what’s up?” Tim reached for a high five.

  “Nothing, man, just have some problems I need to talk about.”