Unwanted Fate

by A. Gorman

  “They sound like amazing people.”

  “They are. I need to take you to meet them.

  “You do.” She smiles at me.

  “I’ll put that on my list to do.” I smile at her as I slide the key card in the reader and open the door.

  “Wow… This room is unlike anything I’ve been in before…” she trails off while looking around and walks to the window that overlooks the magnificent pool.

  I watch her as she turns back around, walking around the room, taking in everything around her. The white and gold décor, the multiple rooms, especially the large king size bed with satin sheets, and the large tub in the bathroom.

  She looks gorgeous, even after working all day and flying. I can’t wait to see what she looks like in what I picked for her to wear to bed tonight. Even though she looks stunning in nothing, a little satin and lace would be a bow on her gorgeousness.

  Emily’s phone ringing pulls me from my thoughts and I look at her as she talks to her mom while she walks around the room. She puts the phone down, and looks at me in incredulity.

  “Dinner at Nobu in thirty minutes with everyone.”

  “Sounds good.”

  “Please tell me I’m not dreaming.” She looks overwhelmed

  “You’re not gorgeous.” I pull her into my arms and kiss her forehead, and she rests her head on my chest.

  “I love you Patrick.”

  “I love you too, Emily.” She lets out a soft sigh.

  “I’d better go clean up. Where’s our luggage?”

  “Umm. I thought it would be here by—”

  “Luggage,” accompanies a knock on the door.

  “Your luggage is right there,” I smirk and open the door.

  I pull out a fifty to tip the bellhop and he doesn’t take it. “Mr. Reeves took care of everything, sir. Thank you and enjoy your stay at Caesars Palace,” the bellhop says as he shuts the door behind him.

  Two can play at this game, Kenneth.

  Patrick places our suitcases on the bed and I look through what he’d packed. I come across a pale yellow satin and lace negligee and wonder where it came from. I hold the provocative garment up to show him.

  “I don’t remember owning anything that looks like this.”

  “You didn’t. I bought it today.” He grins mischievously.

  “Hmm. What makes you think I’d wear something like this?” I try to look appalled.

  “I’m sure if I ask nicely you will.” Patrick stands beside me, looking sweet and innocent.

  “You’re probably right. Thank you, it’s very sexy.” I almost blush.

  “No, thank you. I can’t wait to see it on you.” He pulls me in, kissing me, leaving me weak at the knees.

  “I need to freshen up,” I say as I step out of his hold. I pick up the clothes I laid on the bed, walk to the bathroom, and get ready.

  Twenty minutes later, I walk out of the bathroom and into the bedroom and notice that Patrick has changed into a casual suit, sans a tie. He has the top buttons open, giving a hint of what’s hidden behind his suit.

  “Mmm. You look spectacular.”

  “You look pretty handsome yourself.” I walk up to him and kiss him on the cheek.

  “Addison should be here—” Knock, knock, knock. “There she is.”

  He walks over to the door and Addison’s standing there in a red dress that fits her perfectly. She walks in after Patrick moves out of the way.

  “Wow, big bro, you clean up nicely.” She smiles, teasing. “Ems, I love that dress on you. Blue is your color.”

  “Thank you. I love your dress. Isn’t that the one we got when we went out at lunch a few weeks ago?”

  “Yes. I’m glad I finally had somewhere I could wear it without feeling overdressed.”

  “Are you ready, Emily?” Patrick interrupts our conversation, politely.

  “Yes,” Addison and I say in unison.

  “Good. Your parents are waiting for us.” He opens the door and waves us out.

  We meet my parents down in the lobby and walk to the restaurant. We are led to a private dining area in Nobu restaurant, which I am glad. I felt as if everyone’s eyes were on us as we walked through the restaurant to the semi private area close to the bar, and I would hate to have people watch me while we ate. I’m normal like them, and I wish people would realize that celebrities are people just like them.

  “Is this okay, Emily?” Mom asks.

  “Yes, it’s perfect,” I say as Patrick pulls out a chair for me to sit in. Everyone else sits down around me, Mom and Kenneth to my right and Patrick and Addison to my left.

  Since everyone likes sushi, we order several different flavors to share. We make small talk as we watch the sushi chef create the dishes we ordered. One by one, the dishes are placed in front of us to eat. The flavors of the sushi are like nothing I’ve had before. I eat a lot of sushi at home, but these flavors and textures will make me a sushi snob.

  After our quiet dinner conversation, our drinks are refilled when they remove our empty plates. I honestly think this is almost the best birthday I’ve had, but my heart feels a little heavy that Nate can’t be here to enjoy this too. I know he’s here, though. I can feel him, and earlier I thought I smelled his cologne when we walked into the elevator.

  A man comes to the table to talk to Kenneth privately. The man leaves and comes back a few minutes later carrying a box and bags. Another man is following behind him and he pulls a chair up to the table so the first man can set down everything in his hands.

  “Thank you, Lee,” Kenneth says as he shakes the man’s hand, tipping him. “What’s a birthday celebration without gifts?”

  My eyes go wide. “I wasn’t expecting anything.”

  “That’s what makes this fun,” my mom says. “Patrick, darling, do you want to go first?”

  “Sure. As you know, I donated to the center in your name. Additionally, I’m donating to Veterans Homebound Inc. in honor of your brother.” My jaw drops open and I hug Patrick tightly.

  “We are also matching the donation,” Kenneth says across the table, grabbing my mom’s hand.

  “I…I don’t even know what to say.” The tears spill from my eyes. “This will help so many soldiers and their families. Thank you, all of you.” I smile.

  “Happy birthday, Emily,” Addison says as she picks up a box wrapped in blue and white striped paper.

  “Thank you.” I smile. Carefully, I unwrap the gift, and underneath the wrapping paper is a box. I lift the lid off the box and pull the tissue paper off the gift, a beautiful wooden photo frame. “This is exquisite! I love it, thank you.”

  “I thought you needed something that would make my brother look a little better.” She winks.

  “You’re funny tonight, Addison.”

  “Payback, Patrick.” She smirks at him.

  “Kenneth, darling, can you hand me the bags, please.” He nods and hands her the bags. “You know how I am with wrapping, Emily. Happy birthday, dear,” she says as she hands me three gift bags.

  I set them on the table in front of me and proceed to remove the tissue paper from the big bag. Looking in, I see a larger blue box. Grabbing the box, I slowly open it and sitting in the black velvet is a breathtaking ruby and diamond necklace. I love it. I move to the other bags and find the matching earrings and bracelet. I’m so spoiled.

  “Mom, I love the set. Thank you,” I say as I reach over and hug her.

  “You’re so welcome, darling,” she says as she hugs me back.

  “I guess I’m up next,” Kenneth says as he pulls out an envelope from his inside jacket pocket and hands it to me. “You may open it now.”

  I carefully open the envelope and pull out the tri-folded piece of paper.

  Ms. Emily Kenae Reed Janes,

  This notification is to inform you that a trust has been set up in your name for the amount of five (5) million dollars. The full amount is available at your disposal immediately.

  If you have any questions, p
lease contact the bank.

  Sincerely,

  Herbert Dull

  President, Reno Bank and Trust

  What the hell?

  “Um. I don’t understand.” What the hell does this mean?

  “I set up a trust fund for you. You can use the money however you wish,” Kenneth bluntly states.

  “I don’t know what so say. I can’t take five million from you,” I whisper-yell.

  “You’re not taking it, I gave it to you.”

  “You worked for the money, I didn’t.”

  “Emily, you’re my daughter. Even if I had been around if you were younger, you would have still received the trust. Take it and use it as you wish.”

  “I can’t wrap my head around this,” say as I get out of my seat. Dad and Patrick get up too, thinking I’m bolting, but I’m not. I walk around the table to Kenneth and hug him. “Thank you.”

  “You’re welcome, Emily. So very welcome,” he says and kisses the top of my head.

  “So I can use it in any way?”

  “Yes, why?”

  “I think I’m going to set up a charity. Patrick and I were talking about it a few weeks ago,” I rush out.

  “Are you sure that’s what you want to do?”

  “Yes, absolutely,” I say as I walk back to my seat, Patrick assisting me.

  “Well, if you’re serious, let me talk to my lawyer and accountant. Then we will talk more about setting up a charity in Nate’s honor and you can run it how you see fit and hold on to your money.”

  “You’d do that for me?” I ask in shock.

  “Yes, of course. Emily, you are so caring and compassionate. I’m proud that you’re my daughter.” I know he loves me; my dad loves me.

  “Thank you, Kenneth…Dad. That means a lot to me.”

  “You’re welcome.” He beams.

  “Thank you everyone, I love each and every one of you. This birthday is so special. I thought I would be sad without Nate, but we are honoring his memory in so many ways. For that, I can’t thank you enough.” I smile at everyone place my hands in Mom’s and Patrick’s hands, squeezing them gently.

  “Happy birthday,” they all say in unison and tears spill down my face again. This will be a birthday I’ll never forget.

  I enjoy traveling, but I love sleeping in my own bed…well, Patrick’s bed. When I woke up Saturday, I had to ask Patrick if I dreamed everything from dinner. He just chuckled at me and proceeded to make sweet, slow love to me before I showered to spend the day at the spa with Mom and Addison. Then we had room service for dinner. I had no idea what Patrick and Dad did while we were at the spa.

  Sunday, we ate brunch and packed up to return to Reno. The flight was fast and I slept the entire ride home. When we got home, even though it was in the middle of the afternoon, I fell back asleep and didn’t wake up until Monday morning. The weekend was fun, but exhausting.

  Before we came home, we made plans with Addison to visit Mr. Matheson tonight since Addison was going to be there. I kind of know why Patrick won’t go by himself, but I’m hoping that by some miracle tonight that everything can be let go. I know it’s a long shot, but I’m staying positive.

  Work has been slow today since two of my appointments canceled, and I’ve been watching the clock, hoping it’s time for Patrick to pick me up. Another thirty minutes and I’ll be out of here. My mind drifts to my plans for the charity if it’s something Dad can do. I’ll be able to help organizations as well as individuals. I’m excited to hear something back.

  A gentle tap at on my door pulls me from my thoughts.

  “Hey, gorgeous. Ready?”

  “Hey, you. I didn’t even realize it was time.”

  “I’m early. I should have text.”

  “You’re fine. Let me get everything put away and I’ll be ready to leave.”

  “Okay.” I hurry up and get everything put away and locked up, and then we walk out the door to the car.

  Patrick pulls into the semi empty parking lot that belongs to the rehabilitation center and parks the car in a spot close to the door. I look at the door and see Addison standing by the entrance, waiting on us. Patrick gets out of the car, walking around it to open my door.

  “Are you sure you want to do this?” he asks, nervously.

  “Yes, thank you for bringing me to meet your dad.” I give him a small smile.

  “Might as well get it over and done with,” he says as he takes my hand.

  “Patrick.”

  “Well, it’s how I feel, Ems. I can’t control myself when I’m around him. He makes me so mad. I want to punch something or drink until I’m numb,” he rushes out, upset.

  “I’m here with you; I’ll help you get through. Okay? Try to relax a little. Remember Addison will be here too.”

  “Okay…you’re right. Thank you for coming with me,” he says and he pulls me into him and kisses the top of my head.

  “Cut it out, you two lovebirds.”

  “Hey, Addison. How are you?” I ask as we get up to her.

  “Good, still tired from the weekend though. Thanks for inviting me.”

  “Anytime.”

  “Ready to go in?”

  “Yes,” I say as I smile.

  As we step in front of the doors, they automatically open. Addison takes the lead and walks us to their father’s room. When we arrive to the room, an older gentleman is dressed and sitting in a chair. Addison knocks on the door and his eyes move to the door.

  “Hi, Daddy. You have company today. Patrick is visiting and he brought his girlfriend to meet you.” The man doesn’t move as Addison speaks, but his eyes do. “Ugh. I forgot my purse in the car. I’ll be right back. Patrick, stop being rude.”

  He shuffles his feet and moves into the room. “Hi, Father. This is my girlfriend, Emily Janes. Emily, this is my father, Harrold.”

  “Nice to meet you, Mr. Matheson.” I smile because I know he can see me since his eyes moved earlier.

  “Emily, go ahead and sit in this chair. I’m going to see if a nurse can bring in another chair so everyone can sit down.”

  “Okay.” I smile at him and he walks out of the room. “Mr. Matheson, I’m going to talk with you for a moment, because I’m sure you can hear and understand me. I know a little about the relationship you have with Patrick. I’m sorry that it hasn’t been the best, but I’m sure there are reasons for your actions.” I take a deep breath and continue.

  “But that’s not what I’m going to talk to you about. I wanted you to know I’m not going to judge you. I’m going to tell you how wonderful a man Patrick is. I met him at my community center. His company gave us a donation to help with our programs, and our friendship started there. He came to the community center and spent time with the kids we help and even gave the center a personal donation.” I lick my lips, getting moisture back in them.

  “He’s very compassionate, caring, and very respectable to not only me but everyone around him. I wanted you to know what kind of man you raised. You should be proud of him. He is an astonishing person to know and be around.” A tear streams down the man’s face. He’s heard me and he understands what I’m telling him.

  “I look forward to getting to know you. The real you that wrote the letter to Patrick.” I smile at him.

  His cheek starts to twitch, like he’s trying to smile. Patrick walks in the door and notices.

  “Emily, did you say something to my father?” Mixed emotions play across his face.

  “I did. I gave him my opinions of you.”

  “Paaa…” Mr. Matheson mumbles out.

  “Dad?” Patrick sounds shocked

  “Paaa…”

  Addison walks into the room and hears.

  “Dad! He’s trying to talk. I’m going to get the nurse.” She runs out the door and comes back with a nurse in tow.

  “What happened?” the concerned nurse asks me.

  “I sat with him and talked with him while Addison and Patrick were out. I think he was trying to smile too
.”

  “Oh my heavens. Mr. Matheson, I’ve been praying for you. Looks like God is working on you. Let me get the doctor that’s on rounds. I’m sure he’ll want to look at you,” she says before she walks out of the room

  Tears are running down Mr. Matheson’s face. He’s trying to reach out and Patrick walks over to take his hand.

  “Dad, I’m so sorry for the words I’ve said to you over the years. So, so, sorry,” he says as the tears run down his face.

  I can’t help but to start crying myself. Addison walks over to her brother and father and hugs them both. I hope this a step in the right direction they need to be a family again.

  “Hello, I’m Dr. Grace, and I would like to check Mr. Matheson out, if everyone could step outside.”

  “Of course, Dad, Emily and I are going to go for now. I’ll be back to see you tomorrow, okay?” Mr. Matheson tries to smile again and shakes his head. “Addison, I’ll call you,” he says as he hugs her.

  “Bye, Mr. M. It was nice meeting you and I’m sure I’ll see you soon.” I smile widely at him. “Addison, I’ll text you later,” I say as Patrick grabs my hand.

  We walk to the door, with Addison following us.

  “Sounds good. Patrick, I’ll text you with what the doctor says.”

  “Thanks. Love you, sis.”

  “Love you too.”

  We walk down the hall, out the building to the car. Once Patrick gets in the car, he loses all control and beings to sob, letting out all the years of anger and pain caused by the lack of relationship with his father. I place my hand on his leg, touching him so he knows he’s not alone. He needs this time to purge his body of the emotions he’s feeling.

  Ten minutes go by and he sits up, pulling a handkerchief out of his back pocket, and wipes his face then blows his nose.

  “I’m sorry. I don’t even know what came over me. I felt the urge to cry, I needed to cry.”

  “I understand. Do you feel better?”

  “I do. It’s hard to explain, but I feel…hopeful. I feel like it’s possible to have a healthy relationship with my father,” he says with a smile on his face and tears in his eyes.

  “That makes me really happy to hear you say that,” I say as I move my arm from his thigh to his shoulder and pull him into a hug.