DECEPTION - A Family Affair

by Michele Lee

  “I’m so sorry I wasn’t aware of it but knowing your dad he’ll be making jokes and dancing on his feet in no time.” Marisol stated and Cisco got excited.

  “Pop likes to dance. He dance and sings all the time. Marco never sees Pop dance but he came home now so Pop has to dance for him.” Cisco was wiser than people give him credit for. Marco just stared towards the waitress that was heading towards our table.

  Marianne was a new waitress at Lucky’s she just moved to the area from New York. She came to take their orders and left again but not before she noticed the hot guy at the table. She was all giddy and flirty Marisol couldn’t believe how much it annoyed her. She just kept sipping her wine to calm herself down and ordered a second glass while she had the chance. Marianne came back with their drinks in a matter of minutes. Deep in thought she lost track of the conversation, when she began to focus in she heard Nate talking about the biking club they were members of. Then as usual Nate’s phone buzzed and he once again excused himself to take the call that was so urgent. Marisol didn’t know where to look or what to say. She felt eyes on her when she looked up she met Marco’s deep stare. The second glass of wine must have been affecting her senses; she was beginning to get sensations in her stomach. She really needed to focus.

  “You look good. Looks like life is treating you well?” He then took a big gulp of his beer not breaking his stare.

  “I could say the same about you. For me I’m good; life is good my kids keep me busy.” Before she could elaborate the waitress returned with their food order while he choked on his beer giving her some satisfaction and it showed on her face as she smiled into her wine glass.

  As the waitress placed the plates around the table, Cisco put his request in for barbeque and steak sauce for his chicken tenders. Steak sauce was Cisco’s ketchup. Marisol looked at her turkey club and she no longer had an appetite. When she peeked up Nate returned to their table being apologetic. “Marisol, I’m sorry I have to head out, the vacant property out in Lillington we just left does have a busted pipe, and I have an emergency crew meeting me out there.”

  “No problem, we can wrap this up to go.” She was ready to flee and thankful for a clean get away.

  “Don’t worry about it we can take her home.” Marco said to Nate which it would have been nice if he would have asked her first.

  “Thanks man. Marisol, honey there is no need to rush out when your food was just served. Just ask them to wrap mine up and I’ll meet up with you afterwards. I promise it won’t be that long.” He then leaned over and kissed her cheek and turned to Marco, “Thanks I’ll make sure to stop by the hospital tomorrow, let me know if you guys need anything alright? Bye Cisco and make sure you take care of my friend here okay?” He smiled as Cisco shook his head yes wholeheartedly as he was munching away at his chicken and then Nate left leaving a wave of awkwardness. If her eyes were able to shoot real daggers her friend Nate would be a dead man right about now.

  “I promise I won’t bite? I couldn’t let you sacrifice great food over a busted pipe now could I?” He said in his most desiring way. Geez, does he have to be so charming? She asked herself.

  “Don’t be funny, however, just so you know I am into vampires so beware.” Finally taking a bite of her food she realized how hungry she actually was. She hadn’t eaten all day with all the students in and out of her office.

  He chuckled over her last comment. “Vampires huh?” He looked at her with a sexy grin and his eyes spoke volumes - thinking of places he could bite her no doubt. Blushing she shifted her gaze back to her food.

  “How many kids do you have?” The words were out before he realized it. He needed to know for whatever reason. He was hungry to know everything about her even though all he desired before his arrival was to seek revenge on her and her father. Now that he has seen her in the flesh it was going to be difficult to stay on course.

  “I lost count after the first 100. My students are the children in my life and if I can make a difference in any of their lives even if it’s as much as a handful then I’m happy. Middle school years are a tough age group, they’re trying to figure out who they are, and their bodies begin to change and puberty is on the rise, too old to do the things they’re use to and too young to do everything else.” She just kept rambling and the passion she has for her students showed in her eyes. Marco let out a sigh of relief as her answer satisfied him more than he anticipated.

  “By the way how is Alex holding up?” Her mood shifted to a more serious one when she remembered about Savannah.

  “He is sad he lost his friend.” Cisco responded before Marco was able to swallow the burger he had in his mouth.

  “I know what that feels like, it’s like a part of your heart is ripped out from your chest but he’ll survive we all do.” Marisol couldn’t help it the words just seemed to pour right out of her mouth although she regretted the hasty tone. Marco froze and just stared at her but provided no reply while he continued to chew slowly. Marisol then took the opportunity to get Marianne’s attention and asked her if she can pack up Nate’s food, it was then that she informed them Nate had already taken care of the bill and asked if they wanted dessert which everyone declined and began to head out shortly after.

  Once in the car Marco asked “Do you still live at your parent’s place?” She nodded to confirm and he drove towards the house. He only wished he didn’t have Cisco who was yapping away about their dog. He knew one thing for sure, he needed time alone with Marisol to clear the air with her, not sure on how honest he could be with her but he needed some closure and he realized it more now than ever before.

  Chapter Three

  Marisol couldn’t believe his car, a Mercedes? I guess these past years were really good, and she hopes it was all worth it for him. She knew she couldn’t afford a car like this on her salary. She had so many questions but her pride would never allow her to ask questions. She would die before giving him the satisfaction.

  Pulling into her drive way was like opening up a dam and letting the floods through. All his past memories that he shielded seem to come out all at once. He sacrificed so much and he felt his frustration rise again.

  She noticed his face frown as she shifted towards him. “Marco, I really hope your dad is okay. I will pray for him and your family.”

  He glanced over at her and wanted to pull her into his arms and bury his face into her hair he wanted to feel the warmth of her skin but all he could do was take a deep breath. “Why don’t you swing by the hospital tomorrow, I’m sure the family would love to see you.”

  She put her head down and played with her fingers. “I don’t think that would be a great idea.”

  “Why not?” He asked with his tone a bit harsh. He noticed the hesitation and with a softer tone he asked. “What is it you really want to say?”

  She looked up into his eyes with deep sorrow. “Since you left, let’s just say things have changed. Your family has wanted nothing to do with me. I feel they placed the blame on me for you leaving and well let’s just say the rest is history.”

  He struggled with his thoughts not knowing how to truly respond. Looking from the road and back at her he sympathetically responded. “I don’t know what to say to you, they have no right to treat you badly. I am sorry if they blame you and I will confront them.” He stated not wishing to elaborate further.

  She wanted to shout out to him, if she wasn’t to blame then who was to blame? Damn him she wanted to know why he couldn’t confide in her. Again, her pride stopped her from asking.

  “Well I couldn’t plea my case since I didn’t have any of the facts. For all I knew maybe it was me you were running from, but at this point it doesn’t matter it was so long ago and we are different people now. Please don’t say anything to them; as the saying goes its water under the bridge.” That was all she could muster. She started to get out the car needing to get away from him and he was out before she was able to put her foot on the ground. She looked in the back to say good bye to
Cisco but somewhere along the way he fell asleep. She grabbed Nate’s food and move to the side while Marco closed the door gently.

  “Do I need to worry about your father coming out with a shot gun if I walk you up to the door?” He asked with amusement.

  He really knew nothing of her life and it troubled him to know she was right they are complete strangers now. She looked shyly at him then replied. “No, you don’t need to worry about my father. I live alone now.”

  He stopped in his tracks; her response was not what he expected to hear. So much has happened; life kept going on without him. “What happened to him?” She misunderstood his look of alarm for sincerity and it warmed her to her very core. She faced him and was lost for words for what felt like minutes.

  She turned to look at the house then the old pick-up that just sat in the driveway. She couldn’t bring herself to get rid of it, somewhere deep down she was hoping he would return but knew that would never happen. His memory was getting worse and he was not as strong as he used to be. Finally finding the courage to speak she answered. “He uh, he had a couple of strokes and I had no choice but to admit him to a nursing home. I couldn’t provide him the care he needed. I mean I tried for a couple of years but he had another stroke and fell on my watch. He winded up dislocating his hip from the fall. I felt so helpless, I failed him. I know he wasn’t the kindest person but he is all I have left.” She shrugged her shoulders and turned her head to try to hide the tears that suddenly rolled down her face. She seemed to lose her composure and dignity around him. She would never allow anyone to see her vulnerable side and here she goes acting as if she was a child again under the spell of Marco. It aggravated her to lose control.

  He grabbed her and pulled her into his arms as he rubbed her back inhaling her scent that he so missed. He was so pleased she didn’t fight him, she allowed him to hold her as she clinched the bags she held at her waist. He had no sympathy for her father but yearned to protect her as he always had. He knew she didn’t deserve this kind of burden. “Hey I know one thing about you which is you always give your all so you failed no one. You made the right decision making sure he gets the best possible care.” He whispered into her ear.

  What happen to her shield to protect herself against him? It must have been the wine talking she just revealed so much it reminded her of the old days when they would share all their problems but those days are long gone and she needed to snap out of this moment of weakness even though it felt so good to be in his powerful arms. To be able to let the weight fall off her shoulders even if it’s for a minute she will savor it. Again, she was captured under his wicked spell

  He slowly stepped back and searched for her face and then picked up her chin with his finger. “Look at me.” He softly pleaded. She reluctantly raised her tearful eyes and she was mesmerized. His turquoise eyes were in a trance as he looked into hers. “You are so beautiful.” He wiped her tear that was about to fall then he leaned in to kiss her trembling lips. Once she felt the heat from his seductive lips they both felt the passionate force they created. She dreamed of this moment so many times and nothing prepared her body for the awakening it caused. Her body was on fire and she knew only he could put it out. It’s been such a long time. His tongue invaded her mouth and she could feel his hunger too. She thought she heard a moan and realized it came from her and then abruptly pulled away. He looked bewildered and tried to regain his composure.

  “I’m so sorry; I didn’t mean to burden you with my problems. It must be the wine. I shouldn’t have let that happen. Thank you for the ride home.” She turned and ran up the porch steps and let herself in quickly.

  “Marisol.” He wanted to run after her and say so much but his feet were immobilized he did not trust himself to go after her because he knew it would be no turning back. One thing he knew for sure, he will be seeing her again and soon.

  ****♥****

  The next morning Marisol woke up in a haze wondering if she dreamt yesterday’s events and then remembered it was no dream. She did eat dinner at the same table no less with Marco but why in God’s name did she allow herself to take the ride home from him and why did he have to kiss her and her unbelievingly enjoying it. Ugh! He looked so freaking HOT and so in control – so sure of himself. Why now, why after all these years did he have to show up when she had enough to deal with in her life? She kept repeating the question in her mind like a chant. Despite the hatred she carried for him all these years he still made her pulse race and her body betrayed her. She knew that wasn’t a good thing she needs to stay on her game until he crawls back in the hole he came out of.

  Dragging herself out of bed she had to let Mace out who sat patiently at the doorway. “Okay boy I’m coming.” She said drudgingly then raced him to the back door in the kitchen with as much effort she could muster. Mace the male in her life who gave her all the unconditional love a woman could ask for. Once Mace finished his duties outside she loaded his bowls with food and water then happily put the coffee maker on making it extra strong. Today was no ordinary Saturday attending the wake required all her senses to be on point. She realized this was her first funeral services in over ten years, even though she vowed never to attend another one again. She knew deep down this was unavoidable. The memories of her last funeral nearly broke her very soul and the pain was still so raw. Enough of self-indulgence she jumped up and scooted herself into the shower hoping it will wash away all doubt and replace it with sheer faith.

  Lord knows she needed it. She turned on the old radio that was once used by her grandfather’s workers to a station that plays 80’s classics. The band Styx was playing so she blasted the volume, yes of all songs it had to be “Babe” okay not the right song for some rejuvenating but damn it felt good to belt out the tune as she sang her heart out with the words “Babe I’m leaving I must be on my way…” and ending her shower concert with the song “I will Survive” known as the women’s anthem song, now that was invigorating.

  Feeling pumped up she threw on her sweatpants with a beaten down tank top she refused to get rid of. She headed straight to the kitchen where the aroma of fresh brewed coffee awaited her. She immediately saw Nate leaning against her counter with his arms crossed over his chest holding a mug of coffee that he helped himself to wearing a smile that brighten his pretty face, impeccably dressed as usual wearing his navy khakis and white oxford shirt with blue pinstripes and his casual Sperry boat shoes. “Nate, you scared me, how did you get in? Or should I bother even asking?’ She said as she twisted her lip at him. He continued to smile and released a chuckle. “What? Is it my coffee you find humor in or was it my singing?” She asked while she finally poured herself a cup of coffee and added French vanilla crème. She took in the heavenly aroma before taking a sip dropping herself into one of her dinette chairs.

  “I’ll start with your dog I think you need to trade him in; he is definitely no guard dog. He eagerly greeted me inside short of rolling out the red carpet.” He stated then let out another chuckle. “And yes I really enjoyed the concert I walked in on though I’m not sure if I want to read into any of the lyrics you so passionately sang.” He looked over at her while bringing his mug to his lips.

  “One day you are going to find my shotgun aimed right between your eyes if you keep sneaking up on me. And that my dear is the only security I need so leave poor Mace alone. He can’t help if he finds you irresistible.” She replied smugly.

  “Under all that sophistication you exhibit, deep down you are all red-neck driven.” He shook his head back and forth with a grin. “And I wouldn’t change a thing about you. I also stopped by to apologize for last night even though it was beyond my control. I want to make it up to you and accompany you to the funeral services. I figured you might need some support.”

  Her face lit up hearing his offer. “Really, then I forgive you. Your doggie bag I mean your food is also in the fridge. You know, at first I wanted to curse you but I was a big girl and survived the torture. I just want to keep my di
stance from Marco. It felt so strange to see him it was like the old feelings wanted to seep out of the locked doors that are meant to never reopen. I have to focus on all the pain he inflicted upon me or I’m doomed.” She looked up at him with determination in her eyes.

  He slowly walked over to put his mug in the antique red sink and turned to her again studying her through his eyes. “Marisol, I’ve been by your side through everything you’ve been through but trust me when I say this, until you get the closure you need from Marco you will never have peace in your heart that will allow you to move on and give love another chance. We don’t know how long he is in town for so do yourself a favor take the opportunity and seek your closure. Do it for yourself, hell do it for me if it matters, but get your life back.” Dumbfounded she stared at Nate in silence with both tear filled eyes. He went to the fridge to grab his doggie bag and then paused to look at her. “You know I love you girl.” He turned to leave and yelled out “I’ll be back to pick you up at 2:00 so be ready.” Then the door closed behind him leaving her in silence to ponder his effective words that shot straight to the heart.

  True to his word he arrived on time and drove directly to the church playing Cold Play from his IPod. She spent most of the day staying busy with cleaning and went out for a run hoping to release some tension to no avail. Their earlier discussion forgotten for now although she knew Nate’s persistency and there is no satisfaction until a deal is complete. The motto he lived by. It was just a matter of time before he brought the subject back up again. Those characteristics were the makings of a successful real estate broker but his invasion of her privacy could be construed as bullying. Parking his silver Range Rover, he turned his attention to Marisol. “Miss Braxton, are you ready to conquer?”