Madam Mom

by Lynda Rees

  “Good. I’ve filed the death certificate with the courthouse. It’s in a trust. Since you’re now the Trustee, there’s no need to re-deed into your name. You automatically own them.”

  She signed a few documents, and they were done. Andrew escorted the women to another office for her next appointment “Tisha, I’d like you to meet Lee Finch, Daniel’s son.”

  She shook Lee’s hand. As deliciously handsome as his father, though much thinner and taller, Lee’s lean frame dwarfed Tisha pleasantly. His sandy, blonde hair would likely turn silver like his dad as he aged. Lee inherited Daniel’s fashion sense. His navy, silk suit; white, crisp shirt and red, striped, silk tie looked elegant and distinguished. These guys wore nothing off the rack. A diamond-crusted, platinum band lived on his left hand as he firmly shook hers with an open smile. She knew without a doubt from his demeanor Sam hadn’t confided in his brother.

  Lee managed the stock, bond, mutual fund and cash portfolio. He provided a folder summarizing investments and explained strategy behind them while she listened and agreed with everything.

  “I’m comfortable with you continuing to managing my funds in the same manner. I’m surprised the wealth. I never figured Mom this affluent.”

  “She was. I suggested you draw a much larger monthly income than you have taken as a paycheck.”

  Flustered and overwhelmed, she agreed. “It’s way more than I need, but what the hell? I’ll give it a whirl. Why not? She glanced at Lola who beamed with approval.

  “You have to do something with the money. You might as well enjoy some of it.” Gran winked.

  Knock. “Come on in.” Lee motioned for the knocker to enter. Tisha glanced as Sam filled the doorway.

  Damn.

  “Sam?” Tisha gaped at him perplexed. “Aren’t we finished?”

  “May I see you alone for a moment?” He beckoned with a hand. Tisha followed as he led her to the empty lobby near the elevators.

  “Tisha, I want to apologize. Your name honestly didn’t register on the plane. Later at home, I opened your file and recognized you.” Sam stammered acting as though trying to read her expression.

  “I’m beginning to believe it. I owe you an apology for jumping to conclusions.”

  He held up a hand. “Not necessary. I didn’t want this standing between us. I’m hopeful we can work together.”

  “I believe we can. And, Sam, I don’t normally seduce strange men in airports—or anywhere for the matter.”

  His hand snaked out and reverently stroked a tendril escaping her severe French twist. “I realize it, Tisha.”

  “I didn’t think you pursued me for business. A quickie in the bathroom wouldn’t secure it. I’m glad you didn’t recognize the spoiled, rich-bitch, brat your dad dumped on you.”

  “You heard it?” He winced and grimaced. “I’m terribly sorry. I jumped to conclusions. I should’ve met you before making assumptions.”

  “When we met, I was holy hell on wheels. You weren’t far off base.” She laughed easily for the first time all day. Tendons relaxed in her limbs. Her jaw unclenched, and her neck loosened. “Let’s start over. Shall we? Can you forget our airport tryst?” She shot him a smile that swept away his angst.

  “A remarkable idea, but I’ll never forget. I’ll forever cherish the memory.” His wicked grin gave him the appearance of a teenager and her insides quivered appreciatively. “I’d be insane or a dead man to refuse sex from you, Tisha. You’re quite a woman. I’m not into one-night stands. Far as they go, ours was a whopper. I haven’t been good at commitment over the years, either.”

  “So you’re a player? I don’t understand.” She eyed him skeptically. “You strike me as the family type. You obviously worship your father. I saw the look shared with your brother earlier. You obviously like him. You mentioned growing up in a house full of women. I assume you have sisters and a mother. Your eyes filled with affection as you mentioned them. Why aren’t you married or at least committed?”

  “My sisters are amazing women whom I admire and adore. I could live without them constantly fixing me up with whatever single friends they have, however. I find the idea of home, marriage and family appealing, but haven’t encountered a woman I’d consider for such a partnership yet. Maybe my luck is changing.” He wagged his brows wickedly.

  “You might have gotten lucky with me. It’s as far as it goes, pal. I’m not in the market for a mate. I have way too much on my hands and no time for a man. We’re strictly professional.” Her head shook adamantly.

  “I got that about you. Not fond of relationships—distrusting—commitment phobic—right? Maybe we can work on becoming friends. Everyone needs a friend. Shall we try?”

  How could she refuse those adorable dimples? He smiled like a feisty boy. “I could manage. You’ve proved friend worthy. Thank you for discretion with your family.” She blushed.

  Sam smelled delightfully sexy. “About what, Tisha? I’ve no idea what you mean.”

  No matter, he pretended to forget their affair, he’d professed to never forget it. It’s what warmed Tisha’s insides with a pleasant tingle she couldn’t ignore. She chuckled at his comical manner wondering what cologne he wore. The woodsy smell grew on her fast bringing a strange combination of peace and allure leaving her safe, yet engaging her senses in a sensual way. Spending too much time with him might be a bad idea, but it warrantied exploration.

  Sam led Tisha back into the office where Lee shuffled papers trying to pretend he wasn’t watching through the glass wall. Lola serenely flipped through her portfolio as though paying attention to it. She wasn’t fooling Tisha. She’d been keenly aware of every move Tisha had made.

  “Let’s discuss the rest of your business over lunch.” Lee’s secretary delivered a tray of cold cuts for a business lunch. The foursome laughed and joked easily as they each prepared salads and sandwiches and enjoyed jovial lunch at the long board table in Lee’s office.

  Lee and Sam were similar with Lee resembling Daniel more than Sam. Sam’s rakish, tousled appearance exuded untamed boldness, where Lee was solid and sturdy. They shared a riotous sense of humor, and Lee relaxed considerably once Tisha acted comfortable with Sam. They began bonding even though they had known each other for such a short time.

  Unaccustomed to it, Tisha enjoyed banter between brothers. Love for each other was obvious like siblings of close families. “You’re lucky having brothers and sisters.” Silently she longed for an opportunity to meet them. No reason to.

  “We are.” Sam nodded. “It doesn’t matter how much I resent or complain about their meddling. I love them anyway. It’s flattering they care enough to intrude.”

  Lee and Sam let down their guard. Tisha began relaxing around them. Business demeanor pushed aside for lunch, simply men and ladies enjoying a meal. As brothers do, Lee and Sam engaged in uninhibited, rowdy kidding in good fun. Tisha giggled fearing tears of laughter would spoil her makeup. Gran egged them on. Clearly Sam and Lee loved each other unconditionally.

  After lunch they discussed strategy, tactics and market conditions. Sam made solid recommendations and asked appropriate questions proving competent and knowledgeable. Extremely impressed, by the end of the meeting Tisha felt comfortable with the arrangement.

  Sam helped Tisha on with her coat and Lee did the same for Lola. “Contact me with anything you need, Tisha. Lola, it’s a pleasure.” Lee waved goodbye, and Sam escorted them to the lobby.

  “It’s my pleasure.” Gran winked.

  “Sam, thank you. I’ll see you later.” Tisha hopped in the elevator and selected the button for the ground floor. Sam helped Lola with her step and walker. “A pleasure seeing you again.” He shook her hand a tad too long like he didn’t want to release her. She pushed the button, and the door closed between them.

  “It was more than awkward.” Lola studied her face. “Sam didn’t want to let you go any more than you wanted to leave.”

  “Gran, you’re imagining things. It’s pent up sexual energy bounci
ng around in your brain.” She laughed when the old gal grinned wantonly. The bell rang, and they exited into the first-floor lobby. As Tisha assisted Lola to their vehicle, she had the distinct sense of being observed. As she closed the door behind her grandmother, she spotted him through a glass wall in the second-floor foyer watching them leave.

  Walking gracefully with her head high she laughed out loud at wild fluttering in her stomach. Her being craved Sam’s kisses. Her skin itched for his trace, recalling it more clearly than she wanted.

  She genuinely liked Sam more than she cared to. He wasn’t a target for a love affair or short-term fling. Letting him into her life could get messy. He stirred her emotionally like no man had and she craved more of him. Desiring his kisses, anticipating his breath on her skin, and hungering to make love with him inside her again, she’d never hungered for any man as strongly.

  She made the easy decision to spend more time with Sam, to see where it led.

  CHAPTER 11

  She’d best get at it. Work needed doing. Tisha visited her mom’s properties, talked to tenants, and toured each property managers and maintenance men making notes in her binder summarizing how she would handle each one.

  Too many for one day, she inspected half of them—a doctor’s building, an office building, two strip malls, and a small mom and pop grocery store. She’d get to the others the following day. Returning to the office at four-thirty, she debriefed Andrew

  “I’m impressed with your keen observations and decisiveness. I’m going to enjoy working with you, Tisha.” They wrapped up. Sam rapped on the open door.

  “Hey there, how’s it going?” Grinning, leaning on the door frame, Sam looked like a delectable treat, and her mouth watered.

  “We’re done.” Tisha retrieved her purse. Andrew nodded agreement.

  “Great. How about I take you to dinner?” Gone tired and exhausted from driving herself hard, the hopeful glint in his eyes tempted her.

  “Maybe, let me check with Gran.” Sam went to close his work station while Tisha thanked Andrew then went to the waiting room by the elevator to ring Gran.

  “Darling girl, how’s it going?” Gran chattered cheery.

  “Done for the day, and bone tired, I made it through half of holdings.”

  “Wow, you’ve been a busy bee. I’m exhausted hearing about it.” Gran laughed, but Tisha distinctly waited for another shoe to drop. The old gal wasn’t being completely forthcoming with her. “I’m tuckered after the running you and I did the last three days. I’ve been out more since you got home than in the last couple months. I’m happy staying home to rest.”

  “Okay, Gran. You deserve a restful evening. Sam invited me to dinner. Would you mind? I’m happy to come home and eat with you if you want company.” Tisha half wished her grandmother would provide ample reason to resist Sam’s draw.

  “Nonsense,” Gran’s quick response and joyful tone expressed more than words. “You don’t need to babysit me. I’m pooped and heading for bed early. Go with the lovely hunk of testosterone. Enjoy yourself. Don’t expect me to wait up.” She giggled like a mischievous girl.

  “Oh, Gran, are you certain? I don’t want to neglect you.” Gran was magnificent. A guilty pang prodded Tisha’s chest.

  “I’m sure, Tisha. Run along. Stay out as late as you want. You’re only young once. Live while you can. Have fun. Kick up your heels. Kiss the adorable man for me and tell Sam I said hello.”

  “All right, if you’re sure. Thanks, Gran.” Tisha hung up as Sam entered.

  “Are we on for dinner? If you’re concerned and want to go home, it’s okay. I’d be happy to bring a dinner for the three of us to your house.” Sam’s thoughtful, sweet suggestion touched Tisha more than a four-start meal could. Sensitive, he realized her priority was her grandmother. “I see how much you adore your grandma.”

  “I do, and thanks for the offer. She’s too tired to deal with us tonight. We’re free to go out—orders from the top. She insisted we have fun. I’m yours. Take me somewhere for a pleasant evening. Lord knows I can use one.” Tisha’s gloved hand rested contentedly in his larger one as he eagerly led her into the waiting elevator. The doors shut behind them. Sam stood close in the small space. His chest rose and fell with each breath.

  Was he as excited as she?

  “I like the way you put it. All mine, huh? I like the idea.”

  Their eyes locked. Time stood still, words irrelevant. Bodies communicated intimate language. Sam eased close to Tisha with his body pushing her against the wall. A hand on either side of her head, he leaned connecting from head to toe. Their breathing electrified.

  Sam kissed her forehead, the tip of her nose, and finally melted into her lips tantalizingly kissing a promise of good things to come. Tingles skipped across her skin. His breath scorched as he suckled her neck.

  She moaned. She accepted and met his passion equally. A reckless abandonment engulfed her. She wanted Sam like she’d never wanted anything. She must have him. She would—but not now.

  The elevator bell rang and reached the first floor. A musical ding rang. Breathless, they reluctantly parted. Without a word Sam gripped her hand pulling her to his dad’s borrowed Camry.

  Ditching Simon hadn’t made her blissful, only sad and alone. Lighter and freer than in months, partly from completing a portion of her business burden, squaring Gran away helped. Mainly her sudden burst of control and joy came due to Sam’s remarkable effect. Playful and amusing, sexy as they came, his quick, dimpled smile made her gush and her knees go weak. Exuding power, he didn’t take himself seriously every second, but enjoyed life. Oddly, Tisha mattered to Sam in a deep, personal way. The alien sentiment made anything seem possible. She became determined to explore the heady emotions and give Sam a chance.

  They chose a cozy, candle-lit, corner booth at Pompilio’s ideal for talking and getting to know each other. “I love this unique restaurant. It has an old world essence, run by a longtime resident Italian family. The rustic building ages with dignity and the casual, artfully crafted antique bar of dark wood cleverly accentuates beveled glass and mirrors along the wall. It’s a local hangout frequented by judges, attorneys and businessmen dropping by during happy hour for a beer and gossip.” He reached across the red-checkered tablecloth for her hand. As he held it she lost any inhibitions about getting closer to Sam. His gentleness spoke to her heart and told her to trust him. As his eyes met hers he smiled sweetly then as she responded in kind it grew into a fully engaged smile showing tiny dimples she hadn’t noticed before.

  “It’s charming. I understand it’s known for the best authentic Italian cuisine in the area.” She settled into her seat enjoying his thumb stroking her palm as though he didn’t realize he did it. “Pompilio’s other claim to fame is the toothpick scene from the movie Rain Man, shot in the bar.” He pointed to movie memorabilia hanging proudly throughout the building, including a signed autographed photo from Dustin Hoffman.

  Tisha laughed pointing to the doorway between the first dining room and bar. “I remember. The scene filmed there.”

  “Yep, you have a good eye.” He brought her hand to his mouth and kissed the tips of her fingers. Little tingles surged through her wetting her where it counted. Thick odor of garlic and fresh-baked bread made her mouth water, and her belly growled. She grabbed at her tummy as her face heated.

  “It’s time to feed you.” He winked coyly.

  “Excuse me. I’m embarrassed. I’m tempted to order one of everything on the menu.” The waitress arrived. She settled for lasagna. Sam ordered chicken Marsalis and a bottle of house red wine. They laughed and told stories about their work lives.

  Tisha wore a long face talking about traveling with her family. “It’s sad. Mom’s gone. Gran isn’t up to travel. Last summer we stayed in the grand Portrait Suites on Via Bocca Di Leon in Rome and explored museums, churches, cathedrals and galleries, buying for our galleries and discovering treasures in the tangle of narrow Roman streets. We visited the Panth
enon, the Basilica di San Clemente, and roamed the Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini, one of the ancient discoveries of Roman underground architecture. The Eternal City owns much history and life. We enjoyed it immensely from the Vatican to the La Dolce Vita. Cappuccino hasn’t tasted the same after enjoying one freshly made by a Roman street vendor. Amazing Italian meals, locally produced delightful wines, and we stayed active with all the walking.” Bile rose in her throat. She gulped air to calm her stomach. Who would she see the world with now? She dabbed the corners of her eyes with a napkin.

  “You made incredible memories you’ll always treasure. I adore traveling, but it’s not much fun alone.”

  They talked about college, comparing rowdy, adventurous tales. Tisha told him about her life in New York, and how she longed to resolve things in Kentucky and return home.

  “My girlfriends and I often have dinner, attend shows and openings, or bop out for a cocktail together. You met Kelle, my dearest friend and devoted assistant, at Mom’s funeral. We’re very close. I trust and depend on her, and she never lets me down. She’s running my showroom while I’m away.”

  “I recall a long, lean brunette with a stylish, slanted page-boy haircut wearing a pantsuit with a sun-yellow blouse, towering three inches above you. She stayed close to you all day.” She nodded. “You two couldn’t be more different in appearance, though she’s lovely.”

  “Kelle prefers classic, designer suits in basic colors then accessories with flashy or slinky tanks to reveal her sparkling personality—sporting a professional appearance with a naughty undertone. She’s feisty where I’m reserved and continually pushes me outside of my comfort zone. It’s a good thing.” Tisha beamed proudly.

  “You fooled me. When we met you were walking on the wild side.” Sam winked and a blush stung her cheeks as she stared at her napkin.

  “I’ve never done anything like it before.” Concern about how Sam viewed her must’ve been apparent.

  Sam sounded contrite and his words apologetic. “No worries. It’s our secret, and I believe you, Tisha; but I’ll never forget it. It’s a memory I’ll treasure.” His tone teased, and they laughed. Sam enveloped Tisha’s quivering hand with his delivering delicious heat she allowed to reassure her. He didn’t condemn her for the airport scene.