DECEPTION - A Family Affair

by Michele Lee

  She slightly nodded her head in agreement and slowly processed the events he shared. “Let me get this straight, my father paid and blackmailed Marco to leave as he watched me suffer day in and day out and said nothing. He made me feel like a whore back then but to think he took part of Marco’s rights away from him; a part of his life was stolen all because he loved me. Since he couldn’t get my mother to love him, he had to blame you and Marco paid the price. He made your family pay in the worse way possible for all his shortfalls in life. Oh God, I feel sick.” She jumped up and looked around until she saw the bathroom door and arrived just in time letting everything out in the toilet as she gagged and cough. Her father’s evilness exceeded anything she ever imagined possible. He caused so much heartache and almost destroyed her. How he watched her agonize through her pregnancy and her loss of Marissa. He never once showed any remorse and that hurt deep down. Did he even love her? His actions never showed it, he never gave her any affection or terms of endearments. He was a man full of scorn starting from his parents to his wife having nothing left for his only daughter who gave him the unconditional love he craved but rejected. How he deprived Marco of his family and of the opportunity to know his baby. Those moments are all lost forever – irretrievable. He is incapable of love and must have a black heart. Was he even her biological father? Oh God, her life was in a tangle of deception. As soon as she could stand straight she stepped out of the bathroom only to walk into yet another nightmare.

  “Hello, hello Papi.” Cisco came barging through the front door. “Look what Charley bought me.” Showing his father a handful of figurines of various horses and dogs, he was filled with pure excitement over his treasures. Charley and Mona trailed in right behind him with big smiles across their faces carrying packages of their own purchases from their shopping excursion.

  Charley went right up to Freddie and kissed him on the cheek. “Your wife has great taste in dresses. She picked out the cutest dress for me to wear to the banquet.” And then she noticed Marisol standing by the entry way of the bathroom and her smile faded. “Hello Marisol.” She said softly and then Mona looked at Marisol and then Freddie nothing escaping her. She knew they were both upset and she nodded her head as a greeting. Freddie sat in silence aware of the awkwardness in the air.

  “Hello ladies, Cisco.” Marisol slightly nodded back to Mona and once Cisco realized she was there he charged at her demonstrating his joy of seeing her.

  “Marisol. I miss you.” He held her around the waist and swung his arms side to side the way a little girl would hug her dolly.

  “Wow, I always love your greetings Cisco.” Releasing her he looked down at her with a huge smile and showed her his figurines that were sprawled on top of the table. “They are beautiful, this one here reminds me of Star, don’t you agree?”

  “It does, that’s what I’m going to name him.” He said then gathered his figurines and headed to the back rooms.

  She glided her sweaty palms up and down her thighs to release some of her tension. “Well I really need to go. It was great seeing you ladies and Freddie thank you.” She went over to hug him and whispered in his ear. “You are a great man and I’m so sorry for all the damage my family has caused you and your family.”

  He shook out of her hug and grabbed her hands as he looked directly at her, “You are neither your mom nor your dad so please don’t apologize for them. You deserve so much more than what life has given you so don’t waste any more days. You live it and you do everything in your power to be happy. You are beautiful inside and out – do you hear me.” And as the tears finally came they silently rolled down her cheeks and she nodded her head up and down and sucked her lips in while her teeth held them tight. Forgetting about the two ladies witnessing their display she walked out as fast as her feet could walk without running. When she reached her car she leaned against it so she can breathe again. She heard her name and turned her head to see Charley running after her.

  “Hey, I wanted to catch you before you left. Look I know we haven’t had the opportunity to spend time and get to know one another it’s been a crazy visit. I don’t want to beat around the bush with you. I know you are probably an amazing person but when it comes to Marco – you guys just aren’t good for each other.”

  Good bye Ms. Melancholy, hello Ms. Pissed off. “Excuse me?”

  “I know that didn’t come out right.’

  “You think?” She oozed out the sarcasm.

  “Look, it took Marco so many years to get his act together. He was a walking disaster a time bomb so to speak. He was headed in the wrong direction and would have been mass destruction if it wasn’t for my father. He believed in him. Since he got here he is losing control of himself again and what he feels for you is setting him back to his old ways. He is so full of hurt and pain right now because of you. If you love him the way I think you do; then let him go. There is too much tragedy between the two of you to overcome and he is finally in a really good place I would hate to see you destroy him due to your selfishness.”

  “Thank you for the update.” She kept a calm face not wanting to give her the satisfaction of seeing her upset. She jumped into her Jeep and closed her door. She couldn’t get out of there fast enough. She knew Charley was right. How could he even look at her and not be reminded of the injustice thrown upon him. All his sacrifices he made for his family was all because of her.

  Chapter Eighteen

  She remembered Marco had scheduled to meet with the architect this evening. She had her sketches with her and knew it would be beneficial for him to have them for his meeting. She drove straight to the ranch and didn’t see Marco’s car anywhere. She went to the office only to find Karen one of the instructors sitting at his desk. “Hello Karen, is Marco here?”

  “Hello. No, Marco called he cancelled his appointment with the architect. He asked if I can stay for a while in case the guy didn’t get the message in time.” She said happily. Marisol envied her chipper and happy demeanor.

  “Oh I see. Well I have some designs I sketched for the renovations can you make sure Marco gets them?” Marisol handed them over to her and looked down at her phone and there were no messages. Things went sour quickly after her confession about Marissa. He must really despise her. He could hardly look at her this morning and his confession of having regrets of their mind blowing sex the night before deflated her bubble of hopefulness. How can he not realize she enjoyed it as much as she thought he had. Apparently her assumptions were wrong. It was a no win situation it just wasn’t in the stars for them to have their epic love. Karen’s voice whisked her away from her pitiful thoughts.

  “Absolutely, I’ll make sure he gets them. It’s so exciting I can’t wait to see the completion of all the renovations. Oh, you have to go check on your boy Star. He has been doing great. Everyone is talking about you and how you saved him.”

  “Thanks that’s great news. I could use some loving from my buddy Star. Well, thanks again and have a great night.”

  After spending time with Star she felt more at ease and she also spent some of that time thinking and strategizing her life. She made a few decisions and the first one she had to call Nate to begin the process and the second decision was the hardest. She already had a plan and knowing it was the right thing to do didn’t make it any easier. One thing she knew for sure tomorrow was definitely going to be life changing.

  ****♥****

  Turning her head to check the time on her computer for the fifth time in the past half hour it finally hit 2:00 pm in a few hours the “Marisol Show” will begin. Her first goal was in play already. Nate had two serious buyers that have been hounding her for years to sell her house and both are still interested. Debating where she’ll move to start so she can start fresh. At least she will close a huge chapter in her life once the house is sold. If those walls could only talk they held so many bad memories. She donated her father’s old pick-up to one of the local auto tech schools Angelo recommended. It would be used for the student
s to work on for learning purposes. She was taking control of her life again. She had to close chapters and begin new ones. She owed it to herself. She had to stand up and not let herself crumble.

  It’s bad enough with the medication she was taking, she still had difficulty sleeping. Last night she sat on her front porch for hours enjoying the moment of tranquility. It was all surreal, the winds had passed right through her while she saw shadows whip across the fields hearing unclear whispers she then felt her mother’s presence. It gave her a peace of mind, a sort of calmness. It sounded strange even to her but she knows what she felt. It was her mom’s way to let her know everything was going to be okay. She accepted all the facts she discovered about her demented parents. She now knew exactly how dysfunctional they really were and how they screwed up not only their lives but hers and many others as well but bottom line she loved them and refused to live in anger or spite. Her mother made some really bad choices but she is not here to defend herself and explain her motives. The consequences she encountered for those choices were punishment enough and lord knows she paid the price. As for her grandfather she will pray for his pitiful soul. She was going to free herself by forgiving them. What filled her heart for them was pure sorrow, they lived a life of disappointment, deprived themselves of internal serenity and the true understanding to love and be loved. To live a life without love is pure tragic in her view and she refused to let history repeat it self – it ends today.

  Sally entered her office with her bag of goodies, “Are you ready for your make-over? I’ve been waiting for this day girl, you have a face of a model and I am going to make you look like a star.” She was so giddy and ready for the task at hand. Marisol called her last night for the favor. She wanted to look spectacular this evening and needed to get rid of these dark circles and Sally was her miracle maker. Sally quite the talker filled her in regarding those involved in her assault and the vandalism of her Jeep. They all had to appear in juvenile court and would plea their cases to their peers who are the jury to decide their fate. They determine the amount of community service hours they will each serve which is a great process and awareness. In addition they will have to complete the Youth Development and Choices programs which consisted of evening classes mandated by the court. Marisol was also informed earlier that James’ parents have agreed to reimburse her for the damages to her Jeep. Sally explained how many calls she received by so many concerned parents. Letters had to be sent home to all the families explaining the choking game and what signs to look for along with web sites containing more information. It’s been incredibly busy. Marisol’s head was spinning by the time Sally finished her masterpiece and a masterpiece it was.

  ****♥****

  Nate could not believe how beautiful Marisol was. She almost looked angelic to him, well more like Victoria Secret angelic. “Wow. You clean up nicely for a country girl.” He gave her one of his sexy grins.

  She chuckled. “If only you weren’t gay, with that sexy grin of yours I would probably have mad sex with you right here and now.” The confidence seeping through her felt invigorating.

  “I’m speechless, a first between you and I.” He loved her whole ensemble from the soft colored tangerine dress that complemented her olive complexion; the top had a vertical straight cut providing ample cleavage and angled its way down emphasizing her small waist and curvy hips ending right below her knees. Her hair swept up in a do with soft curls flowing loose around her face. She was absolutely gorgeous.

  Arriving at the banquet the first car that caught her eye was Marco’s Mercedes, butterflies started flying around within her belly. She needed to keep the courage and confidence she carried the past couple of days. Her time has now come; she had to make things right in order for everyone to move on with their lives. Taking a deep breath they entered the facility and he kindly went to check in her shawl while she waited for him. Marco was like a magnet to her eyes as she watched him from afar.

  How many times has she died over the years pinning for him; waiting for him to return until it all became hopeless wishes? To see him now standing there looking glorious and beautiful, how can she be brave when she loved him so? They both vowed to love each other forever but that was a promise made by two children who knew nothing of the evil and deception that encircled all around them. Youth provided blinders to avoid all the fears and ugliness lost in colors and innocence. If she could just go back to that very moment in time where their love was pure and untainted, instead of her facing a life of lost dreams and a doubtful future with no happy ever after.

  Feeling a cold hand on the center of her back broke her spell. “Are you okay?” Nate asked with concern. He was worried about her due to her drastic decisions within the past 24 hours although he had to admit he also felt proud at the same time. She was finally out of her cocoon and taking risks. She tilted her head and gave him a meek smile.

  “I’m good. Incase I forget to tell you later, thank you for this evening and for being my one true friend.” She said as she joined his hand on her shoulder. “Let’s do this.”

  “You got it Babe.” He guided her hand as he extended his arm so she can wrap hers around his. As soon as she entered the hall turquoise eyes found her immediately. She was quite a vision and he couldn’t seem to take his eyes off of her.

  He remained motionless wearing his black shirt with a black suit very GQ and it tortured him not to run up to her and whisk her away from this place. She was on his mind day and night and he suffered observing her every move within Nate’s grasp. His blood began to boil and he knew he must restrain his temper. Charley joined his side and possessively took hold of his arm.

  Nate and Marisol made their rounds of greeting everyone and ended up joining Marco and Charley. “Hey guys. I hate these business functions. I need a drink, Marisol?” Nate asked already feeling restlessness being around his father.

  “Yes I could use a glass of wine.” She smiled trying to hide her trembling hands.

  “Marco – Charley can I get you guys a drink?”

  Both picking up their glasses they each held showing they were fine for the moment. “I’ll be back babe.” He said to Marisol leaving her with a quick kiss to her forehead giving her reassurance and support. He was her rock. Marisol smiling and her eyes gravitated to Marco’s arm where Charley securely held. Her long stare didn’t go unnoticed. Marco actually fidgeted.

  “Marisol, you look beautiful.” He stated with sincerity. His deep stare made Marisol lose a notch of her courage.

  “Thank you. You and Charley look exquisite to...” She wanted to follow with together but her heart failed her and she looked down at her feet.

  “Thank you Marisol. I love your dress the color is perfect on you.” Charley replied back after noticing Marco’s continued stare. “If you both will excuse me, I need to speak with one of the contractors who just arrived. I’ll be right back since we’ll be seated shortly.” She fled leaving the two alone.

  “How have you been?” He finally spoke and she put on her game face. Giving him a bright smile she answered providing him an update of the whole fiasco at school. He listened to her every word then asked what he really wanted to know. “I heard you decided to sell your parents house and donated your father’s truck. You made some big decisions quite suddenly.”

  “It was a long time coming. I need to close those chapters in my life its time I let go and move on.” Before he could respond Nate appeared with their drinks.

  “My father already started harassing me like I need to be told whose shoulders to rub. Really? Here is your wine babe sorry I took so long.”

  “Marco was gracious as I rambled about work. He is the one who probably needs your apology.’ She laughed as she took a big gulp of wine followed by another as if it could quench her thirst away. Just looking at him caused her hunger and only he could fill her body’s cravings completely.

  “Slow down there you don’t want to get yourself sick.” Marco said.

  “I think I can hand
le it.” She answered with frustration which caused him to frown.

  “Its all good, no more for you until you eat. Then again I would love to see my father’s face you drunk and being carried over my shoulder.” Nate laughed at his personal joke. It would definitely be a first for him.

  “Well we know that won’t happen because if she is going over anyone’s shoulders it will be mine.’ Marco retorted.

  “I’m not going to battle you on who is the better cave man but let’s be clear she came with me and she will leave with me.” Nate challenged him right when Charley joined them again.

  “What did I miss? I think we are about to be seated.” Charley looking confused over all the frowns surrounding her.

  “Well Charley, your date has a problem with my drinking. You can let him know I’m a grown woman and can make decisions for myself. In fact would you like to join me my glass seems to be empty?” She asked but took her hand and dragged her to the bar to accompany her.

  “Whoa, I didn’t think you had it in you. I like seeing you stand up to him. He is probably brooding as we speak.” Charley got a rise out of the scene.

  “I’m sorry dragging you across the floor; I needed an ally with estrogen since I was engulfed by too much testosterone.” She asked the bartender for a glass of red wine and she was going to enjoy every sip of it.

  ****♥****

  They were all joined at the same table with an additional two couples. Marisol observed Charley for the past hour during dinner and came to the conclusion she really liked her despite her suggestion to let Marco go. She can see she cared for him and in her heart she knew she was right and who could blame her. Marco was an exceptional man anyone who loved him would want to protect him. Isn’t that what she was doing deciding not to fight for him but to let him be free of her? She was on her fourth glass of wine and began to feel a bit light headed and emotional. All to prove a point, how smart is that? She decided to go get some air so she can clear her head. Right when she was about to get up she heard Nate ask her a question and she wasn’t paying attention.