Madam Mom

by Lynda Rees

  A handsome gentleman with thick, white hair acted happy to see Gran. The two of them kept locking eyes with meaningful glances.

  Pleased Gran felt at home among these people, Tisha began relaxing. A social butterfly, Gran talked with anyone and knew no stranger. She charmed the drawers off every man and flirted shamelessly. They adored her, and Gran would surely play the bell of the ball in her new home.

  With Gran in good hands and happy surrounded with new and old friends well-cared for, Satisfied, one load lifted from her burden. It warmed her heart watching Gran work the room.

  She loved Gran with all her heart. It didn’t matter how tragically she was hurt getting to this point. The here and now counted. Gran mattered. Tisha loved her regardless.

  She should forgive Mom. She needed to find peace and would never have it without forgiveness. Mom had gone forever, too late to alter circumstances. Having loved and protected Tisha, she gave everything needed or wanted, and did her best. No matter how she managed, she deserved and earned Tisha’s respect and love.

  Roberta’s occupation was a job and not her, merely a part of her life. It wasn’t Tisha’s life—not in the past and certainly not in the future. Refusing to be a part of it or drawn into it, Tisha would put it in the past, out of her world. Best she closed the door and moved on. How?

  She arranged to send flowers weekly to Gran and planned to call her at least every other day. Regardless how busy her life was, she’d make time for Gran. She would fly home to visit monthly. Gran must know her love.

  After lunch Tisha escorted Gran to a social event in the party room where residents enjoyed musical entertainment, mingled and danced. She kissed Gran and left her to enjoy friends, promising to see her the next day.

  CHAPTER 20

  The sparse house was deserted and sad in a multitude of ways. Possessions along with reminders of good and bad memories had gone missing, as had those who inhabited the house. Including Tisha, forever gone—changed along with her connection to the mansion. The structure possessed no soul.

  When she released Ms. Flanagan, now officially unemployed, they exchanged tearful goodbyes one last time. Tisha informed Ms. Nelson she would leave the following day and wouldn’t keep the home. Ms. Nelson would care for it until the new owner took possession. Tisha’s glowing letter of recommendation should help if she chose to find other employment.

  Tisha received four missed calls from Sam, which she deleted. She returned Kelle’s call. Kelle answered on one ring.

  “Hello, sweetie pie, how’s it going at your Ole Kentucky Home?” Her cheery voice brought a sad smile to Tisha’s face.

  “Things have been better. Surprises and complications on the occupational front, but Gran settled in. It’s a relief. I plan to finalize everything here today. I should arrive home late tomorrow.”

  “Oh, baby, I’m sorry to hear it. Dealing with Roberta’s estate has been difficult and emotionally taxing. Its good hearing your Gran’s well. Lola’s a real hoot. I’m glad you’re coming home. I miss you. Anything I can do to help?”

  “No, but thanks. I appreciate it. You’re a blessing amid my disastrous life. I’m calling to update you. Need me for anything, don’t hesitate to call. Talk with you tomorrow. Okay?”

  “Oky doky. Depending on what time you arrive, I may not be around. I have a hot date with my sweetie after closing.”

  Visualizing warmth in her friend’s eyes, Kelle surprised Tisha. “You’re falling for this guy. Who would’ve guessed it possible? Where’s Mr. Wonderful, Brad taking you?”

  “We’re having dinner with his parents at The Cub Room on Sullivan. I’m nervous.”

  “Meeting the parents? This big step is out of character, Kelle.” Would she finally settle down? “Brad must be a hell of a man. It’s serious. I don’t recall you meeting parents of your other men.”

  “I haven’t—not since high school.” Kelle sounded giddy. “I believe it’s serious. I’m into Brad. It’s weird. I can’t get enough of him. When I’m with him, I’m happy. Apart, I can hardly stand seeing him go. Not with him, I think of him constantly. He has invaded every part of my life.”

  “It’s a welcome invasion.” Tisha observed, anxious to meet him. Brad seemed good for Kelle. Who would’ve predicted her playgirl pal would find lasting love? She couldn’t. Oddly, the things Kelle mentioned about Brad sounded identical to her sentiments for cheating cad, Sam. Hopefully Kelle’s luck ran better than hers.

  “Yes, surprising but welcome, I may be in the big L with Brad.”

  “Oh, Sweetie, you’ve been a love ‘em and leave ‘em” gal. I’m happy for you. I wasn’t sure true love existed.” Tisha wiped a tear appearing from nowhere.

  “Really? What changed your pretty little mind?” Kelle’s southern drawl played with the words. “Are you in love with Sam? It’s wonderful.”

  Tisha hemmed around the truth. “Yes. I’m in love with him. And no. It isn’t wonderful.”

  “Why not, sweetie? Love is wonderful. You’ll get past struggling with loss. Your life can use love in it. You’ve been through a lot. It’s time good came from it. I’m happy for you.”

  “Don’t be.” Tisha drew a deep breath reaching for strength and dropped the bombshell. “Sam’s married.” Kelle was speechless. “Enough of this, I have work to do. We’ll talk when I get home. Have fun tomorrow if I don’t see you.”

  “Okay, see you. Have a safe trip. Call if you need me. Tisha, I’m sorry about Sam.” Compassion filtered through her words.

  “Thanks, babe, it means a lot.”

  Tisha called Daniel and asked him to meet in her home explaining she couldn’t come to the office due to a personal situation. She needed to speak with him at his first opportunity. She warned him not to include Sam.

  Daniel arrived at ten thirty. Tisha prepared coffee and arranged it on a tray with cream, sugar, and homemade cranberry-oatmeal cookies Ms. Flanagan left—Tisha’s favorites.

  Thank you, Daniel. I appreciate your accommodating my request. It will avoid an unpleasant situation. She hoped explanation wasn’t required.

  “Not an issue, I’m happy to do it. Your family is one of our best and oldest clients. Please understand how much we appreciate your business.”

  “Thank you.” After serving coffee and offering cookies Tisha folded her hands nervously on her lap wondering how to begin.

  “You have major decisions to make. I understand you’ve worked with Andrew on real estate holdings. Lee’s turning your stock market portfolio over to Sam. How can I help?”

  “Andrew has been wonderful to work with. I the two of you to handle a couple matters concerning my properties. Please leave my portfolio in Lee’s hands. I changed my mind.” Nervous about this part of the discussion, she didn’t want to offend Daniel or cause ill will between Lee and Sam.

  She wasn’t sure how much Sam confided in his father about their relationship. She hated what he had done to her. Hating it, she felt compelled to protect him nonetheless, and didn’t want to ruin his marriage. Gravely concerned for his daughter, an innocent, she didn’t deserve to know her Dad cheated. Tisha didn’t want to cause a rift between Sam and his Dad either.

  “I see no need to change something working well. Lee has done a fine job and should continue to do so.” She fidgeted hoping he’d buy her explanation.

  “I see. We can accommodate your request. Lee does his job well. Won’t it be more convenient having Sam handle it? Either way is fine with the firm. Whatever you decide works.”

  “Thank you. I’m certain.” Her expression confirmed her seriousness. Before he had an opportunity to question her further, she went on not wanting questions she had no intention of answering. “Please draw up agreements and manage property transfer of the antique store to Vinnie Russo and the bakery to Tony DiAngelo.”

  Daniel scribbled in his notebook. “What have they agreed to pay for the businesses and real estate?”

  “I don’t want anything for the businesses. Title these gifts to t
hem at no cost.”

  “Are you certain? The stores are liquid and worth a considerable sum. I can help you calculate value if you like.”

  Her hand flew up halting him. “Not necessary, I want nothing for the businesses.” Her business manner broached no argument and tone confirmed a clear decision, without sounding rude. Not open to questioning.

  “Very well. Anything else?” He hesitated but seemed resolved.

  “Please create deeds and sales contracts for those real estate properties. I will sell the building on York housing the antique and the two buildings on Monmouth Street housing the bakery and the one next door to it, with join ownership to Vinnie Russo and Tony DiAngelo.”

  “I’ll hold mortgages on these three facilities at no interest or down payment. Mortgage terms are ten years at three-thousand per month per property. Please prepare standard purchase agreement, mortgages, and deeds for my signature by morning. I’m leaving town later in the day.”

  “I can manage it. I assume you’ve given this extreme generosity substantial consideration and are positive.”

  “Absolutely, I’m certain.” She kept her face expressionless. “Transfer ownership of the Cadillac to Tony DiAngelo, and ownership of the Thunderbird to Vinnie Russo. The Lexus goes to Ms. Nelson. The Camry goes to Ms. Flanagan. No cash involved in the transfer of these vehicles. They’re gifts. If you must mention a cash exchange in order to minimize taxes, please put one-dollar.”

  Daniel continued writing notes.

  “Transfer ownership of this house to Vinnie Russo at no charge, as a gift.” Daniel jotted notes. “I’m leaving a few furnishings in the house. Please arrange for Vinnie to tour and determine what he wants to keep. Anything he doesn’t want, please allow Ms. Flanagan, Nurse Hensley and Ms. Nelson to select whatever they wish. Anything else can be auctioned and proceeds donated to the Cincinnati Art Academy for a scholarship in Mom’s name. Please set up and administer a scholarship billed to me at your firm. Please set it up. I’ll fund it yearly and figure details out later.”

  “Is that all?” Daniel glanced from his notes.

  Tisha nodded indicating.

  “Well then, I’ll see to it as soon as I return to the office. We can knock these documents out this afternoon, and you can sign them in the morning. What time would be good for you?”

  “I hate being a pain, but please deliver them here for signature. Send them by courier for arrival around eight in the morning. He can wait while I sign and return them to you promptly.” Tisha hoped he wouldn’t balk. “I return home tomorrow and will leave soon as I sign. My business is done. This is the last of it. I must return to New York.”

  Tisha’s strained, reserved manner didn’t escape Daniel. Their casual, friendly business relationship didn’t allow him room to intrude. So she wasn’t surprised he kept curiosity to himself. He handled the account with discretion.

  He had daughters around her age. Did he comfort his own girls? She wished he’d put his arms around her and make it better. Of course, he didn’t. They weren’t close personally. He might have been Roberta’s friend, but he merely performed a professional relationship as Tisha’s attorney. She couldn’t confide in him or talk over her problems with him, not now or ever. Sam’s father handled her requests swiftly and efficiently and respected her wishes.

  “Of course, I understand. I’ll ask Sam to drop them off on his way home this evening if you would like.” Daniel’s eyes gleamed like his offer was brilliant. “He won’t mind and would enjoy seeing you again before you leave.”

  “It won’t be necessary. I prefer you not involve Sam. Please, don’t waste his precious time. He has a lot to accomplish while here.” Tisha hoped Daniel wouldn’t push further or question Sam. “Please, use a courier and arrange for him to wait. I’ll read through and sign the documents and he can return them to you right away.”

  “Very well, expect them around four o’clock today. You can return them before we close at six. Someone will be there to receive them.”

  “Thank you for your help and quick turnaround and for meeting here today. It makes my life easier.” Tisha led him to the door.

  “Not a problem. I’m happy to. It’s my job to make your life easier.” They shook hands. “Goodbye, Tisha. It’s a pleasure serving you. Keep in touch and let me know if there is anything I can do for you in the future. I’m here for you.”

  “Thank you, Daniel.”

  “Have a safe journey.”

  Tisha leaned against the closed door for support, relieved having it over and glad she didn’t need to run into Sam. Her mental list of to-dos would keep her busy. She tackled the next item on her list.

  Tisha grabbed her coat and purse and drove off in the Lexus. Fifteen minutes later, she parked beside the antique store. Through the plate-glass window Vinnie helped a customer. She waved, entered the shop. He motioned to her toward his office to wait.

  She helped herself to coffee strong enough to stand without a cup. A gulp fortified her strength sitting in the comfortable chair opposite his desk. She felt lighter and proud, having made necessary decisions and put things in motion. Minutes later Vinnie joined her. Standing she accepted his, sweaty bear hug.

  “What’s going on with my girlie?” Vinnie seated himself behind the messy desk.

  “Vinnie, I’ve decided how to put the mess Mom created behind me.” Tisha smiled sweetly at the man. She loved him and couldn’t bear to hurt him no matter what he’d gotten mixed up in.

  “Good, darling, I hate you being burdened by it. There’s a lot at stake and many lives involved. You want to do right by everyone. But I know you don’t want involved in it either.” Vinnie waved a puffy hand indicating the shop and what it represented.

  “You’re right about it. I’ve found a way to get out, cause minimal damage, and live a normal life.”

  “Let’s hear it, sweetie.” Vinnie folded his hands behind his head leaning backward in his chair. His hulky belly protruded as it rose and fell from heavy breathing.

  “I want nothing to do with the call girls or anything connected including this building, the ones on Monmouth Street, and the bakery.” Tisha paused to check his reaction. He listened patiently, figuring she’d shut them down. “I’m signing over the operations to you and Tony. You get the antique store and he gets the bakery.”

  Vinnie nodded expressionless, keeping silent.

  “I’m selling you and Tony the three buildings involved, held jointly. I’ll hold the mortgage so you don’t need to finance. Pay three thousand monthly for ten years per building. That’s it. No interest involved. Substantial rental income should more than cover the payment.”

  Vinnie nodded, indicating waiting for her to finish.

  “I’m deeding you the Ft. Thomas house and Dad’s Thunderbird as gifts—no money involved.” He silently. “Arrange to view the furnishings I leave and mark anything you don’t want. I asked Robert, my attorney, to manage disposing of any items left.” She hoped Vinnie’s nod meant agreement.

  “I’m giving Tony Dad’s Cadillac. Please tell him because I won’t visit him again before going home tomorrow. Please give him my love and tell him I appreciate him. I appreciate both of you more than you can possibly know. Explain the deal for the businesses and real estate. He should be okay with it. I hope so, anyway. Either of you can reach out to me anytime. You both have my number, and Daniel can help if you have questions. He’s overseeing the transfers.”

  “I appreciate everything you’ve been to us all these years. You’re family. Gran and I love you very much.”

  Vinnie’s toothy smile filled with love. Satisfied warmth welled in her chest assured she did the right thing.

  “Please, look in on Gran occasionally. I’ll continually stay in touch with her. Being far away, it would ease my fears knowing you’re watching out for her, as well.”

  Again Vinnie nodded and a chubby, curled finger swiped moisture forming in his eyes. “You’ve got it, kid. Lola means a lot to me. I’ll keep her close.
”

  “Thank you. Call if anything appears out of the ordinary. I wish she’d move to New York, but she won’t hear of it. Her life and friends are here. She insists on staying and is happy.” Tisha reached into her bag and removed the red book and phone. She laid them on Vinnie’s desk. His eyes lit up, and he twisted in his seat.

  “I assume you know what to do with these. They’re yours. You and Tony use them as you will. Deal with Tallarigo however you must. I’m out of it.” Hands clasped contentedly in her lap, she waited for his reaction.

  Vinnie sat quietly for a couple minutes letting it sink in. He methodically weighted his reaction before speaking. Picking up the book he flipped through it. He turned the phone on checking for numbers and written messages needing responses. He placed them in his top drawer.

  “You’ve certainly thought this through. I’m extremely proud of you and in awe of your generosity. As for Tallarigo, he won’t present a problem. Trust me on it. If you have any qualms about this decision Tony and I will pay for the business, and even the cars. I’m pleased to have your parents’ home. However, I’m willing to pay fair market value for it.” He leaned back in his seat studying her.

  “No. Thank you, Vinnie. I want you to have these things. It’s rightfully yours. Good or bad, your deal with it. They’re gifts. Please, take and enjoy them with my love.”

  Vinnie snickered. “You’re quite a woman. Roberta would be proud. She always was. I’m sure she knows, wherever she is, what a remarkable woman you’ve grown into.”

  “Thank you, Vinnie. I hope so.” Sadness ruled her face, struggling to maintain a posture of dignity. She wanted to slump into the cozy seat, curl up and cry like a baby.

  “Frankly, I’m surprised at the way you structured this. Financially speaking, it’s not fair to you. You’re sure about it, but I’m accepting. I’ll manage it for you and deposit your share into an account. It wouldn’t link you to the operation in any way.”

  “I’ve never been so sure of anything in my life. I want out—completely. I want this arrangement. There’s minimal damage for you and Tony. It allows you to go on doing what you want and avoids hurting the ladies. It’s up to you.” Vinnie didn’t respond right away. She jerked erect in her chair. “Honestly, I don’t need the cash. I want absolutely nothing to do with it.” Tisha spoke adamantly. “Mom left me financially stable. Gran has a large estate and will someday leave it to me. This doesn’t hurt me in the least. It allows me to leave here unencumbered lifting a weight from my shoulders. I’m happy with the solution and hope you and Tony are, as well.” She waited silently.