Disguise

by Bella Love-Wins

  He invited her to come by and check out the model train set his father had built in his basement, but she held back. She grinned and sluiced the water out of her face, thinking about his half-embarrassed smile whenever he mentioned the model train setup. He said it was something his father had started, and he did not have the heart to let it go. As she moved on to scrub the bath sponge over the rest of her body, she could not stop thinking about him. It was not the first time that she wondered whether he was gay or straight. She had quite a few gay friends out in Hollywood, and still, she was not sure.

  She mentally prepared herself, repeating silently that she wouldn’t be surprised if he was gay—just disappointed as ever. She had already imagined being with him. He never hesitated about casually dropping a hand on her arm during conversations or hugging her close when he was ready to leave. Coming to think about it, she had never seen him with a woman, or even heard him talk about anyone female. Actually, the more she thought about it, the more she was convinced he was probably, definitely gay.

  Probably.

  She was ninety-one percent sure of it, but what did that mean for her?

  She stepped out of the shower and wrapped her body in a large pink towel, tiptoeing into her bedroom to avoid leaving puddles down the hall. She patted herself dry and looked through the closet for something to wear. Again, she convinced herself it would not mean anything for her if he was indeed gay.

  It’s not like I’m interested in him like that.

  Neither she nor her ‘Alex Roberts’ character she was playing had any interested.

  Sebastian Sullivan can be as gay as he wants, and it’ll never have to affect me.

  She threw on a pair of jeans and a t-shirt, some sneakers, and a fitted cap. As she sauntered downstairs, her phone rang.

  “Viv!” she answered, pumped up by the surprise call from her bestie.

  “Darling, I got your messages and heard the news. How is Daddy?”

  Alexandra sighed and shook her head. “Not too well. I’m on my way to the hospital in a few. What are you up to? Where are you? I have so much to tell you about what’s been going on since the last time we spoke! Do you have a minute?”

  “It’s a rare day off, dearest,” Vivienne answered. “I have all the time you need.”

  She walked into the kitchen and reached up into the cabinet for a bowl. Digging around in the utensil drawer, she grabbed a spoon and checked the pantry for cereal. Rosa had been amazing, making sure the house was stocked with food while Alexandra spent most of her time at the hospital. All her favorites were in the pantry and the fridge—which meant anything that did not have to be cooked on a stove.

  “Like I said in my message, Viv, this isn’t exactly the vacation I dreamed up, but it’s been a welcome break. Rick has been keeping me up to speed with everything in LA. He even fed the media a rumor that I’m on the French Riviera when in reality, I barely see the outside of Dad’s hospital room. Although…I’ve met someone.”

  “Wait a minute. Didn’t we agree you were going to try being single for a while? What is he? A hot doctor?”

  “Oh, no! It’s not what you think. Gosh, where do I start?” She poured a large bowl of cereal and sat on the edge of a barstool. “Okay, you know how sometimes we go out all covered up to keep a low profile? You know, sunglasses, massive hats, head-to-toe body suits?”

  “Yes? What about it?”

  “I’ve done that times ten.”

  “How do you mean?

  “You’d never even recognize me, Viv. You’d be so proud! For starters, I chopped off all my hair.”

  Alexandra heard something clatter to the floor on the other end, a stunned silence, and then Vivienne’s high-pitched shriek. “You did not!”

  “I did! I cut it all off and dyed it black. I would send you pictures, but you and I both know hackers love getting into celebrity phones and stuff. You’ll just have to wait and see me when we both get back to LA. I’ve been playing a twenty-one-year-old guy named Alex Roberts, and so far…no one has figured out who I am.”

  “You’re kidding me.”

  “No! I know, I know. It sounds drastic, but think about it. If I hadn’t done this, those asshole reporters would be all over the hospital by now. It’s the only reason my dad’s illness has not hit the press yet.”

  “Bullocks. I hate to break it to you, but why do you think I called in the first place? It has reached the press. I was calling to make sure you weren’t having a meltdown from what that catty Phoebe Mansfield printed about you.”

  “What?” Alexandra dropped her spoon.

  “Yes, darling, the word on the street is that you’re a selfish, hedonistic brat out partying in France, neglecting your father during his illness. They’ve even got pictures of you on the Riviera, honey! Terrible pictures… of a very believable look-alike! I knew it couldn’t be true, but I have to give Rick credit.”

  “Crap. Trust the media to make the public think the worst of me. You know what? At least that throws them off my trail. Let the rumor mill do what they do best. Anyone who knows me, knows better.”

  “Yes, of course. But, about this someone you met. Who the heck is he? And, how on earth is that working out with you being Alex Roberts, Boy Wonder? Wait! This sounds like it’s bound to be juicy! Hold on, hold on. Will I need popcorn for this?”

  Alexandra laughed. “Popcorn might not be necessary, but I do hope you’re sitting down. His name is Bash. He is exactly the kind of guy I would be into. Oh my god! He’s tall, about six three. He’s got those wide, very capable shoulders you want to…well, you know…and big hands…and, you know what that means,” she hissed scandalously into the phone. “Not that I’ve had any chance of dragging my eyes below the neck, considering I have to remain a damn dude around him. But, think of a young George Clooney in the face, only more rugged. You would love him, Viv! He’s…”

  “He’s got a fan, I see!”

  “The only thing is, to top it all off, I’m beginning to think he’s…” she dropped her voice, “he’s probably gay.”

  “What?! Noooo! Dammit. All of the best ones are, darling.”

  “He lives right next door, and that makes him so much harder to ignore. But you’ll be happy to know I’ve been on my best behavior.”

  “I’m sure you have,” she said sarcastically.

  “No, really. I’ve kept to myself, and I’ve been with Dad in the hospital as long as the nurses would let me. Bash still comes around like clockwork the minute I get home, though. Tell me what you would think if a guy kept sniffing around another guy like that…and kept bringing him food.”

  “What?”

  “That’s right. He cooks.”

  “Hmmm. That is definitely suspicious behavior. And what’s his place like?”

  “It’s all well-manicured lawns, a renovated house, and someone had an eye for interior design in there. The place is perfect, and always spotless.”

  “Damn. I’m sorry to be the one to inform you, honey. He’s gay. The way that house sounds, it’s a dead giveaway. But look at the bright side, dear. You can crush on him all you like. Plus, as the guy you’re playing, Alex was it?”

  “Yes. Alex Roberts.”

  “Really original, honey. Anyhow, as Alex Roberts, you can be flattered that his interest is reciprocated without getting into the dirty business of sex and dating. It’ll be like having that one hot cousin you can’t sleep with, but you can have around all the time! It’s the best of both worlds, love.”

  Alexandra burst out laughing at the weird comparison. “Like a cousin? Seriously Viv, what do you Brits do over there? Anyhow, he’s coming by tonight. I’m sure of it He’s gotten into the habit of hanging out with me for a few hours when I get home early enough. Oh, wait. Did I mention he’s a firefighter?”

  “Shut the front door! Now I want to fly out for a visit just to get a peek at this guy. You might be playing a male character, but I’m a perfectly eligible single female. I can help you test that gay theory. Serious
ly Lex, you make him sound like walking cheesecake drizzled with hot fudge and caramel. Darling, I’ve been on a diet for a month! I desperately need some cheesecake.”

  “You keep your pretty little ass right where you are,” she told her, laughing harder.

  The doorbell rang, and Alexandra looked up. It had to be Rosa. She had a key, but she started ringing the doorbell now that Alexandra was staying in the house. She shoved the last spoonful of cereal into her mouth She’s taking me over to see Dad. I’ll call you back when I get a chance to tell you more about everything. I really don’t want Rosa to know I’m into Bash.”

  “Kiss Daddy for me and tell him I said hello. You behave, girlie! That’s an order.”

  “Talk to you later, love.” Smiling, she ended the call and scurried to the front to open the door.

  “All set?” Rosa asked when Alexandra pulled the door open. “Don’t you look adorable! You’d better watch out, Lex. If anyone finds out it’s you under that hat, you’ll set a new trend.”

  “Let me grab my charger and bag,” she said. She went back up the stairs and took everything she needed to keep Dad company for the day. Every day, she hoped that would be the one where he showed some signs of progress.

  CHAPTER TWELVE

  ALEXANDRA looked over at her father’s physician, waiting for another confirmation.

  “Yes,” the doctor answered again, nodding at Alexandra with a satisfied smile on his face. “You heard me correctly. He’s well enough to go home, if you’re ready to have him.”

  The doctor’s mellow baritone voice sounded slightly awestruck by his own admission, but he could not be as surprised as she was. She let out a breath of relief mixed in with timid laughter, and her misty eyes moved from the doctor, to her father, to Rosa. Her light blue eyes sparkled as she anxiously squeezed her trembling hand.

  “Are you serious?” Alexandra was gushing. She tried to scale back her excitement. The question came out a little too high-pitched, and definitely girlish.

  When the doctor had called this morning requesting a conference, she was worried he would give them more bad news. He did not. He told them that although it would be a long road before her father was back on his feet, he was out of the woods.

  She squirmed on the chair she was in. The décor of the small family conference room was a clashing combination of dark blue and cherry red. The wide wall of windows let in enough sunlight to clearly show the dark circles under the physician’s tired eyes, and the lines chiseled into his face. He probably saw the same imperfections in her face, but she prayed he would not figure out she was a woman underneath.

  The doctor gave her more information about her father’s release, smiling and seeming so hopeful that it was rubbing off on Alexandra.

  “Mr. Storme’s situation was very serious when he was first admitted. We kept him on antibiotics and a range of other medications, and for the past three days, his vital signs and bloodwork are looking far better than expected.” He paused, giving them a serious look. “Let’s be clear, though. He’s going to need home health care, and he’ll be on IV antibiotics and oxygen apparatus for some time. Thankfully, these are treatments that can be administered at home.”

  “That’s the way he would want it,” Rosa replied.

  “Good,” he answered. “Also, I hope you know my decision has nothing to do with his constant insistence that we ‘break him out of this joint’, as he keeps putting it.” The doctor laughed briefly, shaking his head. “If I didn’t think it was best for him, he’d be staying. I assure you.”

  “Of course,” Alexandra said, nodding enthusiastically. “It’s the best thing for all of us.”

  She had told Rick she needed more time to be home. Now she could stick around until Dad made a full recovery. A few more weeks of antibiotics and constant care were ahead, but this news was so much better than hearing Dad might only have weeks of life left. Tears streamed down her face. They were happy tears, relief as she saw how close she had come to losing him.

  “How soon can we transport him home?” Rosa asked.

  The doctor checked his notes. “If you’re ready to take him home today, we can arrange an ambulance to bring him later this evening.”

  “Will we need any special equipment?” Rosa continued with her questioning. She always thought of everything.

  Alexandra tuned them out as Rosa and the physician discussed getting her father safely home. She stared out the window at the blue sky. Her mind was years and years away. The day her mother had silently slipped away that dark night, she had sat beside her weeping father and held his hand, telling him she would always be there for him. She would never forget his response.

  “I hope you will, Princess. And I wish I could always be here for you, too. But, one day…I won’t be. I won’t be able to. I’ll have to leave you behind, too.”

  “A long, long time from now, right, Daddy?” she had asked in a small, uncertain voice. At the time, it felt like anything could happen. In fact, the most terrible thing had already occurred—a parent had been taken away from her.

  “I sure hope so, but no matter when it takes place, I want you to remember one thing.”

  She closed her eyes and recalled the expression on his face, his blue eyes glistening with unshed tears, his pale lashes fluttering as he blinked them away. They had been sitting in the waiting room while the nurses got Mom ready for one last goodbye. Dad had laced his fingers through hers and talked to Alexandra like she was an adult, acknowledging that losing a parent had a way of forcing a child to grow up quickly.

  “I want you to remember to keep going,” he had said. “Be as big as you can be. Do as much as you want to do. And, don’t stop on account of losing me or your mother. Do you understand?”

  She nodded to herself now as she stared at the awful clashing décor in the family conference room. She had not fully understood it at the time. It was during these past days—these long, hard days of trying to prepare herself for Dad not making it—that she had gradually come to understand exactly how much he was asking of her back then. She could imagine how he must have felt. He probably wanted to disappear into a dark, secret hiding place and give up living, rather than face a future without Mom. Instead, he was strong, and had encouraged her to be strong too. Alexandra was even more grateful now for his foresight.

  With the meeting over, she and Rosa walked out of the building and to the SUV in much better spirits than when they had first arrived. They sat in the massive parking lot, and Alexandra could tell Rosa was processing all that had happened. They were both silent.

  “Thank you,” Alexandra whispered after a few minutes. Rosa looked over at her with a soft smile that reminded her of her mother. She wanted to burst out crying all over again, but she choked it back and nodded. “Thank you for taking care of my dad, even when it didn’t look like he wouldn’t come out of this. Thank you for telling me what was going on, even after he told you not to. You don’t know how much I appreciate it, Rosa. And I want you to know how much you’ve come to mean to me.”

  “It’s been a tough time for both of us,” she answered, patting her hand before starting the car and backing out of the parking space. “I believe Maxwell got better because of a very specific dose of medicine…you.”

  Alexandra didn’t deny it. Love was a kind of medicine. She had not seen her father in months before he got sick, but even at Christmas when she had come home and first got the feeling he had a significant other, she saw a positive change in him. Dad had been happier, less harried and not as preoccupied with work.

  The thought made her look at her life in LA before she returned home. It was missing that deep, soul-searing love. Eventually, she would have to go back to LA. She had an album to finish, photo shoots, video shoots, another tour, people to see, things to do. As she watched Rosa drive them home, she had a new burning desire. She wanted to do more than date men where she had no future.

  The string of failed pseudo-relationships was frivolous. The empty house i
n Beverly Hills felt like a waste. She thought about a career change, or moving back to Tucson. That would be complicated, but then again, she did not want to think about anything at all right now, except her father coming home to get better. After Rosa dropped her off, she went upstairs and curled up on her bed. She pulled the quilt over her shoulders, and now that she had less to worry about where Dad was concerned, she quickly drifted off.

  CHAPTER THIRTEEN

  SEBASTIAN felt the cooler evening air hit his face as he stepped out his front door. He was on his way over to see Alexandra, with a plate of spaghetti, homemade garlic bread, and steamed asparagus. He stopped in his tracks at the sight of Rosa directing EMS personnel up the steps. They were carrying a gurney, and even from his porch, he could make out the pale, haggard face of Max Storme. This did not look good.

  He stuck the plate on the wide ledge of his porch railing, and jogged down the steps. In a few strides, he made it across the yard to lend a hand.

  “Good evening, Ms. Rosa. I was just about to come over to hang out with Alex, but it doesn’t look like it’s a good time.”

  She looked up at him with an absent expression. Silver streaks were now visible in her blonde hair. She was more distracted than usual, although he had not been around her much.

  “Is everything alright?” he asked, genuinely concerned.

  “Oh. Hello Sebastian. I can’t talk right now,” she said hurriedly. “They’re getting Max set up now. He’s been released from the hospital.”

  He nodded apologetically. “Sorry for the intrusion. I understand. Please let Alex know I came by.”