by Bria Marche
“Let’s take a break as long as we’re downstairs. How about lunch? I can whip together some grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup. We’ll check out the windows after we eat.”
“That sounds good, I’m starving. The house is really taking shape, Sasha. By next summer, the Victorian will be a showplace. So you’re serious about turning the extra lot into a vineyard, right?”
“Well… yeah. It’s not about having a real vineyard, Josh. I want to draw people in. It will be unique and something to see, a novelty, I guess. But given the space I have, there may be a chance to produce a little wine. I guess it depends on how many grape plants I can fit on the lot.” Sasha handed Josh a can of soup to open as she busied herself assembling sandwiches.
“And you want a vineyard… why?” He clamped the can opener with one hand and turned the crank with the other. He rummaged through several cabinets until he found a small stainless steel pot to pour the soup in.
Sasha put the sandwiches on the hot griddle. They made a sizzling sound as they turned a golden shade of brown. “Because I want to make this place into a small inn. Nothing that will take all my time. I’d rent out rooms now and then when something special is going on in town. What I want to do, is host weddings here. Isn’t that romantic?” The smile she wore melted his heart. “I’m going to give the Victorian an official name.”
“Really?” Josh filled the bowls and placed them on the table. “What are you going to call her?”
“She’s going to be called ‘Martha’s Vineyard.’ There’s a reason behind all of that, but that’s a story for another day. Let’s eat.”
The outbuilding on the south side of the property consisted of the shed and garage together. It was painted to match the house and in pretty good condition. A padlock held the double barn doors closed. For now, Sasha only used the shed for gardening tools. Until an overhead garage door with an opener was installed, she parked her truck next to the house. She pulled the key from her pocket and unlocked the doors, then flipped on the interior light. In front of them and to the left, twenty five storm windows in various stages of condition rested against the wall.
“There aren’t enough storm windows,” Sasha said, after counting them twice.
“Yeah, I think it’s right. You have some stained glass windows that are just decorative. They wouldn’t have storms over them because they don’t open anyway. These aren’t perfect, but I think they’ll keep the wind out. Next year you should replace all the windows. The new types are double, or even triple paned. They don’t need storms.”
“You know a lot about houses, Josh. I’m glad you’re around, thanks.” Sasha reached out and squeezed Josh’s arm. “I appreciate everything you’ve done to help me.”
“Hey, I’m just trying to be neighborly,” he said, grinning. God, I want to kiss her so bad.
“Well… I do like your company.” God, I wish he would kiss me.
A deafening silence fell between them for a few seconds. It was awkward, because they were both thinking the same thing.
“Okay, should we get back to work?” Sasha asked, breaking the silence.
“Yeah, sounds like a plan.” Josh put his hand on her back as she led the way out.
***
“Aren’t you the cutest thing I’ve ever seen?” Vic called out, as Sasha entered Hair Brained wearing one of her new outfits and sunglasses. “Nice duds, babe.”
“You like?” Sasha asked, giggling.
“Sure do, hon. Give me a second. Mrs. Johnson, come over here and sit under the hair dryer. I’ll set the timer for twenty minutes. Here’s a few gossip magazines.” Vic patted her customer on the shoulder, offering her a cup of tea and a smile. “Okay, what’s up?”
“I’d like to host a dinner party in two weeks. I have a kitchen table with two leaves and the card table, and I’m planning on nine people. Will you help me arrange things?”
Vic gave Sasha a hug. “Are you starting to like me? Of course I’ll help you, we all will. We’ll get enough chairs together, no problem.”
“Oh good.” Sasha breathed a sigh of relief. “There’s one more thing. I’m inviting Josh Redmond. He’s number nine.”
“No shit? Hey Tina, did you hear that? Sasha is having a party and Josh Redmond is going to be her date. Sweet!”
The salon started buzzing with whispers. The blue hairs and young hipsters had new fodder for the gossip mill. Pretty soon all of Tarrytown would find out who the latest notch on Josh Redmond’s headboard would be.
“Vic, thanks a lot! I’d prefer to keep my private life private.” Sasha timidly looked around and saw twenty four eyes staring at her.
“Honey, we gave you a heads up when you moved here. Small towns can be your best friend, or your worst nightmare. Make it your best friend, you’ll be a lot happier. Call Mia and Karen and see if they want to do lunch. We can talk about your party over a few burgers and beers. Tell them to meet us at Morey’s at noon.”
The bar area was full at lunchtime so the girls opted for a booth. There were double air kisses and compliments on Sasha’s outfit choice. They sat, ordered lunch and leaned in as Sasha explained her dinner party plans.
“The Victorian is coming along nicely, so I want to have an appreciation party. You’ve all helped so much and I don’t know what I would have done without you. I’m truly grateful.”
“There’s still a lot of work to do, isn’t there?” Mia asked.
“Well… yeah, but Josh Redmond has been helping me quite a bit. The upstairs is painted, some of the floors are done and the storms are on the windows.”
“What’s that about? Since when did he become one of us? We didn’t take a vote,” Karen said, with a snort.
The rest joined in, clinking their beer glasses together.
“Cut him some slack you guys, he isn’t that bad. He’s been very polite and a gentleman lately, not to mention, very helpful. Plus I have an announcement to make,” she said, happily.
“You’re preggers?” Vic asked.
“Seriously, Vic, you’re so deranged,” Sasha pouted.
“Just saying… you have been alone in the Victorian with Josh Redmond. He has a reputation to uphold, you know.”
More snorts and snickers with another round of glass clinking came from the four. Mia caught the attention of the waitress for refills.
“Can you guys grow up? I swear you act like third graders. Anyway, we need to plan a menu. I’m not really good at that stuff yet. The party will be Saturday, the 8th of November.”
Chapter Ten
“What’s the occasion?” Mia asked, as she spoke to Aaron on her cell. She had him on speaker phone while she washed the windows facing the street.
“Do I need an occasion to take the love of my life to a fancy restaurant for dinner? We’ve been to every restaurant in Tarrytown um-teen times. Let’s try something different. I hear Avery’s is really nice and they’ve got rave reviews. It’s only a thirty minute drive. I’ll pick you up at six, okay?”
“Sure, it sounds wonderful. Do you want to stay the night?” she asked, teasingly. “I make a great dessert.”
“Oh, baby, I know you do. Maybe we should skip dinner and get right to the dessert,” he joked back.
“Not on your life, mister. You offered, and now you have to man up and take me to Avery’s. I’ll be ready at six. Love you, babe.”
“Love you right back.” Aaron had great plans for later. Avery’s was known for their extensive champagne list. He wanted something wonderful, but not over the top. Champagne in the one hundred dollar range would be perfect. Aaron called ahead and spoke to the Master Sommelier. He suggested the Cattier Brut Blanc de Noirs, and said they would set a bottle aside. With that done, Aaron browsed through his closet, looking for something nicer than average to wear. Tonight would be special. He had two questions for Mia. He hoped she would say yes to both.
Mia finished her usual weekend chores. Tonight would be exciting, even though she didn’t know what Aaron was up t
o. With the cleaning products put away, she checked the time on her watch: 4:10 p.m. Good, there’s plenty of time to walk Reggie and get ready without rushing. She grabbed Reggie’s leash. “Let’s go, boy. We have a half hour to take a nice walk.”
Reggie rolled over and opened his eyes. A large yawn came from his mouth as he got up, stretched and casually walked to the front door.
“Sorry I disturbed your eighteen hours of rest. It’s hard being you, right, Reg?” Mia laughed as she clipped the leash to his collar. “C’mon were out of here.”
The air was fresh and cool. Late October brought earlier sunsets and stronger winds. Mia bundled up in her wool coat and scarf. She wound the scarf around her neck twice and slipped on a light pair of gloves, then closed the door behind her.
The steaming shower felt heavenly after the chilly walk. Mia lingered under the spray of hot water as it relaxed her muscles. She dried her long, blonde mane with the blow dryer, tilting her head upside down. This will give my hair more volume.
The black, wrap dress was her final choice after going through the closet three times. It would be elegant with a string of pearls and matching earrings. Mia wore her hair down and dabbed Chanel behind her ears, and on her wrists. She slid into a pair of nude thigh highs with lacy tops. Aaron will like these. The black heels are going to kill my feet, but I have to pay the price to look stunning. Mia was naturally beautiful, and the expression on Aaron’s face confirmed it when she opened the front door.
“My God, woman, you’re gorgeous,” he said, with an approving smile. “How did I get so lucky?”
“By waiting a lifetime, and being persistent,” she replied. “You’re pretty hot yourself, Mr. Daniels. Shall we go?”
Aaron helped Mia with her coat. She flipped on the porch light to illuminate the sidewalk as they left.
The restaurant was a classic supper club. Avery’s was high end, with dark wood, crisp white tablecloths, and cozy lighting. Candlelit tables and booths provided seating that was intimate and romantic. The hostess led them to a table near the crackling fireplace. It was perfect. The waiter took their order. Mia chose broiled salmon with lemon and caper vinaigrette. Aaron ordered the broiled grouper with ginger soy marinade. Side salads and crusty, warm bread was served first. The waiter placed the cloth napkins on their laps. He left for a moment and returned with the ice bucket and stand holding the bottle of Cattier Brut Blanc de Noirs champagne. He poured a glass for each of them and disappeared.
Mia stared, wide eyed at Aaron with a surprised grin on her face. “Aaron, this champagne had to cost a fortune. What in the world are you up to?”
He smiled and took her hand in his. “I love you, Mia, and always have. I want you to move in with me, as a couple. It’s time, honey. Let’s put your house up for sale. I want to sleep with you every night for the rest of my life. What do you say?”
“We’ve talked about it before, and I agree, it’s time. Yes, Aaron I’d love to move in with you.”
“I was hoping you’d say that, or the next thing I want to ask you would be kind of awkward.” Aaron pushed his chair back and stood. He reached in his sports jacket pocket and pulled out a ring box, then knelt next to Mia’s chair.
The restaurant fell into a quiet hush as everyone stopped eating, and all eyes were on them. The background music was turned off momentarily.
“Mia James, you are the love of my life. You’re the air I breathe, and the beating of my heart. There’s nothing in the world that would make me happier right now than to have you as my wife. Will you marry me?”
Her hands covered her mouth in astonishment, while the tears sprung from her eyes and rolled down her cheeks. It took a few seconds before she found her voice. “Oh my God, Aaron, yes, yes, of course I’ll marry you.”
He slid the Tiffany, emerald cut, diamond ring on her finger as the restaurant patrons cheered and wiped their own eyes. Mia stood, shaking in her heels as she and Aaron exchanged a passionate kiss. He wiped her eyes gently with his fingertips. “I love you more than life itself, Mia.”
“I love you so much, Aaron. This is the happiest day of my life.”
The love making between them took on a whole new meaning that night. It wasn’t about playful sexiness, and lust. It was about true, deep love and the passion they had for each other. Mia was beside herself with joy. She finally had the life she always dreamed of, and with the most wonderful man she had ever known. The love they shared was real, stronger and deeper than anything either of them experienced before. Mia snuggled in Aaron’s arms, feeling his warmth as her head rested on his chest. His heart beat against her cheek. She was safe and content. The hall light sent sparkles bouncing off the enormous engagement ring as Mia raised her hand to gaze at it. She was amazed by its beauty.
“I love you, Aaron, and I can’t wait to be your wife. Should I tell everyone we’re engaged now, or wait until Sasha’s party? It would be more fun to wait and surprise them all at the same time. Something else crossed my mind a few weeks back.”
“What’s that, sweetheart?” he asked, as he kissed her forehead and stroked her hair.
“Before I put my house on the market, I’m going to offer it to Karen. I have no idea if she’s ever considered living in Tarrytown, but it would be wonderful if she did. Greenwich is so expensive anyway, and she’s kind of out of the loop living there. What do you think?”
“I like the idea of having all our friends nearby. Give her a call tomorrow. We can take a drive over there and talk to her.”
***
“Hey guys, it’s nice to have company once in a while,” Karen joked, as she welcomed Mia and Aaron into her living room. “Let me take your coats. I made lunch too. Hope you like salad and pasta.”
Claire brushed up against Aaron’s pant leg and meowed. Mia giggled, remembering the first time she was introduced to Karen’s cat. Mia found the perfect spot behind Claire’s right ear to scratch. The cat settled in and purred.
After lunch, Mia helped Karen clean up the dishes. Aaron poured coffee while Karen served three pieces of warm apple pie. They sat around the table as Mia began.
“I want to run something by you, Karen, but please don’t feel obligated to say yes. I don’t know if you’ve ever thought about living in Tarrytown, but I’m going to put my house up for sale. I’m moving in with Aaron.” Mia glanced at Aaron, squeezed his hand and gave him a smile. “Before I list my house, I want to offer it to you, but only if that’s something you would be interested in. Please don’t feel pressured. We love you, and would like to have you closer to all of us.”
“Wow, I’m kind of stunned. It never crossed my mind, but it’s an exciting idea. I could be in the middle of the craziness instead of on the sidelines,” she said, laughing. “Our houses are about the same size, and you live in a nice neighborhood. I’d be a lot closer to help out in the Peekskill store, and could always ride up with Max to the Hunter store when Mario needs us. Let me talk to a Realtor about my house and find out what it’s worth. What do you want for your place?”
“I’m thinking in the neighborhood of $500,000. I don’t want to call a Realtor though. They’ll try to get me to use them, and if I’m selling to you, we don’t need their help. I can ask Josh’s opinion, I guess. If you are interested, I’d hire a real estate attorney to draw up the papers. Give it some thought. Like I said, no pressure. We’ll talk in a few days. Just know this, we’d love to have you closer.”
Chapter Eleven
Sasha was becoming more and more confident in her own abilities as time went on. Dead serious about changing her name, she climbed into the Tundra and headed for White Plains. She had an appointment today to present her name change request to a judge at the Westchester County Courthouse. All the necessary paperwork needed to be filled out while she was there. She had to find out more about quitclaiming the Victorian and getting a license to run a small inn, too. After that, a stop at the social security office and driver’s license building was scheduled. She would do all of this wi
thout any help, and she felt good about it. The party at the Victorian was next weekend, and she wanted to introduce herself as Martha Destiny to her friends. Of course, they would be shocked that she actually went forward with it, especially because she did it alone.
***
“Why do I have to appear in front of the judge today? Can’t you take care of it for me, Jason? You are on retainer, and you charge exorbitant fees, you know,” Jack said, as he drove. He was angry. Because he missed a few of the dates for community service he was ordered to do, he now had to explain the reason to the judge in open court.
“Jack, you have to show some responsibility, or you’ll end up with a lot of fines and possible jail time. If you don’t show up today, it’s just sending a message that you don’t give a shit.”
“I don’t give a shit, and I’m missing work because of this,” he barked into the phone as he drove toward the courthouse. “I’m pulling into the parking lot. What’s the courtroom number?”
“It’s 5C. I’ll meet you there.” Jason Henry, Jack’s attorney, looked at his watch: 10:02 a.m. “We have plenty of time before your case is called. I’ll be there in five minutes. Hang tight and don’t act like a jerk when you go through security.”
“Yeah, yeah… whatever.” Jack hung up and parked his BMW.
Sasha pulled into the parking lot of the courthouse at ten-fifteen. There was a bottleneck of people ahead of her to go through security. There was no hurry, she had forty-five minutes before her case would be called. She flipped through the emails on her phone as she waited. A familiar voice jolted her back into the moment. It came from somebody in line, farther ahead. Her heart pounded wildly as she stood on her tiptoes, trying to see over, and around, the people in front of her. The front of the line was obscured, but she recognized the voice. There was no mistaking it. Jack was there, somewhere, and only thirty feet from her. I can’t have a panic attack. The guards will think I’m guilty of something. Stay calm. The sweat droplets trickled down the back of Sasha’s neck as she stood in the crowded line. Her stomach churned. I have to get through this. It’s because of that asshole I’m even here. She finally reached the front of the line. She glanced down every corridor as she waited for her purse to be searched. Jack wasn’t there. She was so close to getting everything she wanted. Should I go ahead, or get the hell out of here as fast as I can? The ladies room was directly to her right. Sasha ducked in and wet a paper towel. It felt good against her face. She needed to cool down and catch her breath. Images came back to haunt her. Images of Mia doing the very same thing six months earlier when she witnessed Jack and Sasha together at Grand Central Terminal. Sasha broke down. What comes around goes around, and it’s all related to Jack. I have to do this. He isn’t going to intimidate me, or any of us, ever again. Sasha took five minutes to compose herself, then continued on. She went over the information she scratched down on a piece of notepad paper as she nervously entered the elevator. Okay… I’m in courtroom 5G. She pushed the button on the elevator panel to take her to the fifth floor. The doors closed, and the elevator began ascending. It stopped at the third floor. Sasha held her breath as two women entered. She exhaled with relief. The doors opened again on the fifth floor and she reluctantly got out. The elevator was her safe spot. She could hide in there as long as the doors never opened. Now she was exposed. The plaque on the wall showed arrows going to the left for courtrooms 5A through 5G. 5H through 5M went to the right. Sasha turned left. My courtroom must be at the end of the hall, she thought, as she began down the long corridor. The necessary papers were compiled in a neat, manila folder Sasha carried firmly under her arm. That loud, arrogant voice filled the hallway, as the man on the bench fifty feet ahead of her, spewed angry words at his attorney. Just the sound of his voice, again, almost sent her into a panic attack. She had to walk past Jack to get to her courtroom. It seemed like slow motion as Sasha watched her folder fall to the floor and the contents slide across the corridor. She knelt down, gathering the papers as quickly as possible. No, no, please don’t come over here! Jack’s attorney was approaching.