by Lynda Rees
“Well, if you’re sure, how can I argue? It’s pretty smooth for me and Tony. I got ’ta say. Tony won’t mind me speaking for him. We accept.” He reached a husky paw across the desktop. “Thank you, sweetie, for your extreme generous heart. Asher valued the cars. I’ll care for mine as he would’ve.”
Vinnie stood drawing her into his bulky arms. His comforting hug felt safe, and she soaked up his affection knowing it would be a long while before she saw him again. The closest she had to a father, he had been good to her and her family. Glad to have him in her life, regardless of his past, she soaked up his loving warmth. Another load lifted from her shoulders.
Holding her by the shoulders grinning, he eyed her. “I always loved the big old house. I never thought I’d own it.”
“Good. I’m glad. I don’t want the house, and it means nothing without Mom around. Gran told me you always loved it, and she doesn’t need it. I don’t want it going to strangers. It makes a fitting gift to my favorite uncle.” Tisha winked and gave him the first real smile she’d worn since witnessing Sam with his wife and daughter. At that image her expression morphed to sadness.
Vinnie remained unaware of her broken heart. “I’m so sorry over Roberta’s passing. Please, baby, try to get past your heartache. You’ve grown into quite a woman. You deserve happiness. Go find it.”
“Thank you Vinnie.” Tisha kissed his bulbous, rosy cheek then held out a business card. “Reach out to Daniel. He’s expecting your call and will make arrangements for you and Tony. I’m signing documents this evening then leave tomorrow. Call if you need me.”
“Of course. Thank you, Tisha, for everything. Don’t worry about Lola. She’s like a mom to me. I love her and am happy keeping an eye on the old gal. Not to worry.” Vinnie helped Tisha with her coat.
“Thank you Vinnie.” She planted another kiss on his cheek before walking out the door. He smelled of Old Spice and a hint of cigarettes on his clothes. His breath smelled fresh though he smoked like a fiend. How did he manage not tasting like a dirty ashtray?
Suddenly hungry, having hardly been able to eat since seeing the loving family, she felt renewed—a good sign. She stopped by Barleycorns to pick up one of Greater Cincinnati’s best Rueben sandwiches with a big pickle and a bag of chips. Making another stop at Schneider’s Candy Shop in Bellevue, she bought bark candy. Their amazing homemade candies were to die for. Having traveled the world and sampling chocolates in most every country she visited, she never found anything nearly as good as Schneider’s. Purchasing a two-pound box of the delicacy to take home to Kelle, she selected a small bag for herself as desert and couldn’t resist ordering a half-pint of homemade banana ice cream made fresh with real bananas. Yummy.
Lordy, I’m going to get fat. I need to get my butt home.
CHAPTER 21
Light hearted and pleased she drove home and settled in front of the television set with dinner. Taking a long draw off a cold beer from a weeping, icy bottle, she relaxed and laid her head back, letting the cool liquid cool and calm her, ready for a new beginning. She enjoyed the meal with her feet propped on the coffee table and the remote control beside. Better after surviving the day, she readied for a new beginning.
A pretty blonde reported from the news desk. “A blast caused by a gas leak resulted in local entrepreneur and real estate developer, Carlo Tallarigo, dead at the scene. His home a total loss, destroyed around four a.m. this morning in an explosion. Neighborhood houses sit far apart, so no other structures were involved.” Staring at the photo of Carlo, her mouth opened. The disreputable man she faced in her foyer was definitely the victim.
The doorbell rang. She raced from the kitchen to answer it. Assuming the courier arrived, she whipped the door open.
Sam filled her doorway.
When she finally found her voice, it came out meek and flustered—not what she wanted to project. “Why did you come? Daniel should’ve sent a courier.”
“I confiscated it from the courier and told him I’d deliver it myself. Dad doesn’t know, so don’t give him any flack.” He entered without invitation, and she moved aside. He followed the chatter of the television to the living room. She silently followed.
Sam opened the envelope and placed documents on the coffee table sitting on the sofa beside the remains of her dinner. She chose a spot a good distance from him. Accepting the pen he handed her, his heat eased into her palm from it. She tried focusing on the paperwork, flipping through it, but couldn’t concentrate. So she signed beside each spot indicated with a sign here sticky note.
The television droned on but had lost her interest, flustered at Sam’s nearness. She hadn’t noticed the story continued.
“It’s the guy who threatened you. Right? Carlo Tallarigo. He’s the gent Lola shot. Right? Wow, it’s weird. Karma bit him quickly. At least he won’t bother you any longer.”
Tisha nodded without looking him in the eye or glancing at the television. Shock about the news didn’t put her in a tizzy. Testosterone spurted from every pore on the male easing too close for comfort next to her.
“You and Lola aren’t in danger any longer.”
“I suppose.” She couldn’t manage more conversation and used the stack of paperwork as a diversion.
“Dad let me know you don’t want me to work for you.”
“I see no reason to change what works.”
“It’s fine. I don’t mind it. You left me a vague message during the night canceling our date.”
She shrugged without looking at him.
“I called—several times. I stopped by, but received no answer.”
“I know.” Her brows rose and fell, still avoiding him.
“I don’t understand, but you’re avoiding me.”
“Sam, you and I had a flirtation, a good time together, and a fling. I’m going back to my life. It’s over.”
“Seriously? It’s all it was to you? It’s all you have to say? You can walk away without regret?” He paled looking forsaken and bewildered.
“Yes, it’s over.” She packed papers into the envelope and shoved the package into his hands. “Here you go. We’re done.” She marched to the door, opened it and silently avoided his eyes as she waited.
Sam stalked behind her and turned in the doorway. “You’re wrong, Tisha. We’re not done.” He spun and stalked out. She shut the door behind him. Tisha leaned her backside against the door wiping at tears with the back of her sleeve. She sniffed closing her eyes and braced herself standing there a few minutes taking deep cleansing breaths, struggling for control.
One more burden lifted off her shoulders. She marked it off her mental checklist.
I can do this. I’ll get through it.
At least Carlo wasn’t a threat any longer—to her or Gran. Tisha wasn’t buying the accidental gas explosion theory. She couldn’t tell Sam, but she wasn’t sorry Carlo Tallarigo was gone—to avenge her dad.
She shook herself back to reality, but her body vibrated from Sam’s nearness.
CHAPTER 22
The following day Tisha dropped in on Lola, comfortably enjoying her new home. “Did you hear about Carlo?” Tisha sat at Gran’s small kitchen table while the octogenarian brew them a pot of tea.
“Yes Dear. I can’t say it’s a shame about the scum bag. Meeting a fiery death in a gas explosion is fitting. Police reported faulty gas lines.” Gran snickered. “It’s his first glimpse of fiery flames of hell. I’m sure he’s arrived there by now, rotting in hellfire as we speak. I won’t miss the old coot. The world is better off without him if you ask me. May the devil take vengeance on Carlo?”
“I don’t see surprise in your eyes.” Would Lola confide information on Carlo’s accident?
“Can’t say I’m surprised. Many wanted Carlo’s hide. I’m surprised he lived this long.”
“I see.” Tisha wasn’t convinced, still not buying the accidental explosion story. It wasn’t her problem. She’d best forget it.
“How’s my girl? You done here
? Heading back to the big city?” Lola poured two steaming mugs.
“Yes, finally. It’s been grueling. I’m glad it’s settled.”
“I figured as much. I got a call from Vinnie last night.” Lola patted her hand lying on the table.
“I’m good with my decisions on how to handle Mom’s estate. You’re safe and happy here, well cared for. I’ve got what I need. Once I’m back to work, things will be better.” Already freer somehow her heart broke beyond repair.
“You look sad, Tisha. Losing your mom took a toll on you, but this goes beyond. It’s been awful learning about things your family did. You’ve got a solid head on your shoulders though and have successfully separated yourself from the shady stuff. This has more to do with your young man. Doesn’t it?” The old gal read her emotions—always had been able to.
“Gran, you never cease to amaze me. I broke things off with Sam, and yes. I’m bummed out about it. I’ll get over it. I’ve done it before. Give me a couple weeks, and I’ll be fine. I’m used to being alone. It’s the way it’s meant to be.”
“It’s a crock and you know it.” Lola shook her head looking frustrated. “There’s no such thing as the McClain Women’s Curse. There’s nothing wrong with you, and you deserve love.”
“Not from Sam. He deceived me. He’s no better than Simon or the rest. He’s a liar and cheat. I don’t trust him.”
“Are you sure, baby girl?” Lola cocked her cherub head in awe. “I liked the boy’s aura. I’d a pegged him for true blue. I’m rarely wrong about a feller.”
“I’m certain, Gran. I saw him with his wife and daughter with my own eyes.”
Lola slapped her leg. “Damn it to hell, how did he get past my radar? I’m sorry, Tisha. You fell for Sam in a big way.”
“I’ll be alright, Gran. Don’t worry. I arrive home early this evening, and will catch up on happenings at the gallery with Kelle in the next few days. In a few days I’ll have forgotten all about Sam.” Yeah, right. It would take a few years if it ever happened. No need for Lola to worry though.
“I’d better hit the road. My cab should be out front. I parked the car at the house for Vinnie.” She kissed Lola. “I’ll call you Sunday, but give me a ring anytime you want. Love you.”
“I love you too, my sweet girl.” Lola hugged her with sadness filling her sweet face.
♥♥♥♥
Tisha arrived home early evening. The gallery was closed, Kelle out with her fella, Tisha settled on her cozy sofa with an icy bottle of beer scanning through a pile of mostly junk mail. Kelle opened anything looking official possibly pertain to the shop.
“Things are good at the gallery,” Kelle assured her on the phone before she boarded her flight. “Thanks for providing your opinion on the show schedule for up-and-coming artists.”
“No problem. I’m pleased to finally return home and excited to see you. The date with your man is important, too.” At least one of them had a real love life. Tisha hoped Kelle’s love affair wouldn’t end as tragic as hers had. “I can hardly wait to get back in the swing of things.” Tisha’s inside flittered excitedly. “I’ve had enough of Kentucky a long while.”
CHAPTER 23
“Something is desperately wrong.” Sam raved, pacing his workspace at the Kentucky office. Lee lay on the sofa, head propped on hands and feet crossed listening. “Tisha wouldn’t return my calls and broke our date without explanation. She avoided me like I had the flu. I’ve no clue what’s going on.”
“Maybe she wasn’t as into you as you thought, bro.” Lee eyed him cockeyed.
“No, I would’ve known. She might have surprised herself caring for me after her last breakup with a two-timing beau, but she cared. I’m sure. Whatever is up can’t be good. I’m losing her. We merely began exploring what might happen between us.”
“Maybe she got over it. She had a lot on her plate, Sam. She could’ve been in over her head.”
Sam hesitated thinking it over. “She did, but talking with me about it helped. From what Dad said, she made radical changes to her estate. I personally reviewed the properties she kept, and everything appears on the level with them. My gut says she rid herself of anything out of the ordinary.”
Lee rested elbows on knees and his chin in hands. “I double checked her properties as well. You’re right. She got out of the questionable deals. She’s good—financially and legally, far as I can see. So why would she run from you?”
“Hell, Lee, your guess is as good as mine. I’m at a loss for an explanation. It’s like she tossed me aside with the tainted businesses she found despicable.” Sam raked his hands through his unruly mane, slowing his pace.
“You’re going to wear a hole in the carpet, if you don’t stop running back and forth.”
Sam stopped abruptly, stretched his back with hands on his backside, consumed with apprehension. “It’s killing me. Tisha is my destiny. Something happened. I don’t like it.”
“When did you last her?” Logical Lee tried to help his distraught brother.
“I had dinner plans the next evening, so we decided to go out a couple days later. Everything was fine between us.”
“Dinner with sis and her clan?”
“Yeah, she gave me grief. I needed to spend time with the munchkin.”
“Why didn’t you take Tisha along?”
“You know how the girls are. There would’ve been a lengthy interrogation. The sisters notoriously butt in where they have no business sticking their noses. Before the evening ended, she’d have Tisha picking out wedding favors. I couldn’t subject her to it—not yet.”
“I get it. They do want wedding bells for you, little bro.” Lee shook his head laughing.
“Besides, not wanting Clara to interfere in our budding love affair, I didn’t want to share Tisha. I promised Clara I’d have dinner them. Her precious imp Sara is adorable and growing up so fast. I thrilled at spending time with her. It had been ages since Ben and I had an opportunity to chat. I like the dude. He’s become a great husband and father.”
“Yep, they’re a beautiful family. Did you explain you shoved her aside for a family thing?”
Sam stopped pacing. “No, I let her assume it was business. I didn’t want to get into it with her and didn’t want her to feel like I put her second since I had no intention of inviting her along. I wanted Tisha all to myself for a while, before subjecting her to our family, the Cincinnati Syndicate. The girls would wreak havoc on my love life if I let them.”
“My rowdy, crazy family loves each other.” Lee leaned back studying Sam.
“You and the rest of the crazies create the foundation giving me inner strength. You have to admit, you can overwhelm an outsider—especially one from a small family like Tisha.”
“I totally get it, Sam. Did Tisha understand?”
“I have no idea. I hadn’t considered my reluctance to introduce her family might’ve cost me a chance with her. A lot happened to her while we got to know each other. But, Lee, honestly I can’t believe she saw it as a simple fling. She felt something genuine for me. I do for her. I love her. Separation is killing me, man.” Sam flopped into a side chair. “Was I wrong? Maybe she merely needed someone to lean on during a crisis. Afterward she cut me loose and returned to her life. I meant nothing to her.”
“Something more? I don’t know how you’ll find out if Tisha refuses to see or talk to you. You can’t stalk her.”
“No, Lee, I’ve stopped calling. If she wanted anything to do with me, she would’ve contacted me already.”
“Did you talk with Dad about it?”
“To find out what she decided about business.”
“Sam, he’s still in the office.”
“You think I should? I can’t talk with him at home about this. The family would get involved. There’s no such thing as a secret in the house.”
Lee strode toward his office. “Now’s your chance. Give him a whirl. Maybe he can shed light on it. Tell him.”
Sam skulked toward D
aniel’s open office door. “Hi Dad, you’re here late today.” Daniel usually arrived home by six thirty. It was nearly seven.
“Yeah, I had a late call. Your mom likes dinner on the table by seven, so I make the effort to arrive home by six-thirty. She holds it for me if I’m going to run late, but I hate keeping her waiting. What’s going on? I saw you and Lee chatting earlier. You’re serious.” Daniel beamed at his much adored son.
“Do you have a few minutes to talk? I realize you’re eager to get home. I want your take on something. I’d rather talk here than at home. I won’t keep you long.” Sam took a seat as Daniel indicated a chair. He clasped his fingers together.
“Sam, I have all the time in the world for you. What’s up?”
“Thanks Dad. I told you I met Tisha McClain on the flight here.” Daniel’s face showed no signs of disappointment, having warned Sam away from Tisha. Daniel’s face didn’t change as he nodded. “I’ve been seeing her while she’s here. At first I told myself I wanted to get better acquainted with a new client. I lied to myself. She drew me to her like I’ve never been drawn to any woman.”
“She is a remarkable young woman.” Daniel spoke calmly.
“Yes we got along extremely well, considering pressure at the time. At least it seemed that way to me. I care and want a chance to see where it leads.” Sam nervously twisted a paper he held.
“You and Tisha McClain are well suited to each other, in my opinion; assuming she’s rid herself of criminal activity Roberta engaged in. I believe it’s the case, from what I’ve seen. You’re on edge. Did something happen?”