Purple Rain (The Rain Series Book 2)

by TJWEST

  “I keep thinkin’ that we’ll never make up the time we had lost all those years ago. We’ll never have a bond that a father and son should have.” I took a deep breath. “He died without knowin’ how sorry I am about Jake’s death.”

  “Oh, Quinn, honey, look at me.” I brought my eyes up to hers. She saw I had tears blindin’ me. I’m not one who cries about anything, but dammit, the pain was too much. I’ve lost so much in my life; my brother, mother and now my father. My entire family was history. I was all that was left - the fucked up one.

  Sandy wiped a stray tear from my cheek. “There is something I have forgotten to mention.” She was crying too - she sniffed and wiped her face with the back of her hand. “When you were in Nevada, I came over here to talk with Red. I was so worried about you and wanted to know if he knew what was up. We talked about your brother and mom.” This was news to me. I didn’t want to interrupt so I let her continue. “Red never blamed you for Jakes death, Quinn. He was actually quite upset that you thought he did. Yes, he had a hard time dealing with it, but not once did he blame you. He loved you so much. I guess we all see things differently as we grieve for a loved one; but the fact of the matter is, you can find peace knowing he died not blaming you.”

  I was stunned. “Seriously? All this time and he never told me. Fuck!” I became angry, slamming my mug on the coffee table and making it spill over the sides. I stood up and paced the room. “I can’t believe this.”

  “Quinn, I understand you’re angry, but he couldn’t get through to you. You were so far gone that he couldn’t reach out. He didn’t know how to talk to you. Anger and grief does horrible things to our minds - it’s hard to see what’s right in front of us. He was grieving, you were grieving, but you need to know that he loved you. He always did. That’s what matters now because how you’re feeling isn’t going to bring him back. He’s not going to come back and tell you in his own words that he loves you and never blamed you for Jakes death. So I’m the one who’s doing that for him. He would have wanted me to tell you.”

  I stood in silence; lookin’ into my womans green-eyed stare. She had a look of pain, pleading with me to listen. And I did. If it weren’t for her I would never have known about how Pop felt. I captured Sandy’s body, and held on tight. “Thank you.” I choked.

  I heard her hiccup through her new shedded tears. “He brought us together. He brought you back home so we could be together.”

  “What?” I lightly grabbed her face, now stained with tears and bloodshot eyes, matching my own.

  She nodded. “Yeah. He told me he wasn’t really planning on retiring. He wanted you back to meet me. He loved us enough to put us together without us even noticing. He was smart. He knew we would fall in love. I know that sounds crazy, but he just knew. That’s how much he loved you, Quinn. He wanted you to be happy. He wanted you to have a family; a life with me and Joey. I’m so glad he planned it out, because I found the love of my life. And my son now has a father.”

  I couldn’t believe what she just shared. My mind was on overload with this. “God, this is heavy. Pretty overwhelmed right now.” I exhaled and sat back down.

  “Are you okay?”

  Nodding my head I comment. “Yeah. It’s just so - I don’t know….. unlike him, I guess. Fuckin’ crazy.” I mumbled. “We hadn’t spoken for a long time and then out of the blue he wants me to take over Reds. All this time it had nothin’ to do with him…..but for me. For us.” I turn my head facing Sandy and she is smiling.

  “Fate has a strange way of working out don’t you think? Red shared something else that is actually quite funny. He said that he knew we would end up together because I’m the only one who wouldn’t put up with your shit.” She laughed. “He was so right.”

  “And thank God for that.” I sweep her into my lap and kiss her.

  Chapter 21

  Sandy

  The last couple days have been hectic; between getting Joey back into school, me going back to work, dealing with the loss of Red, customers, staff, and Quinn being absent from Reds, was taking a toll. Shawn and I had to stick together - whether we liked it or not. We sometimes butted heads because he didn’t like me getting the upper hand from Quinn, but I figured it was his problem not mine. What mattered most was making sure the staff was okay during this trying time; they all loved Red and respected him and were deeply saddened by the most recent news. Keeping the restaurant open and alive, throughout the week, is what Red would have wanted. That’s what I intended on doing.

  Quinn’s office was stacked with sympathy cards and bouquets of flowers. The smell was beginning to over-power my senses so I started placing them around the restaurant. I wished Quinn could have seen how much people loved his dad, but he wasn’t ready to come back. He was making plans for the memorial service, which was not something anyone should do alone, so I asked for some help. Matt Cooper was a friend of Red’s so I knew he would be perfect. I just hope my big bad wolf would be okay with the idea.

  He came by picking up his lunch order when I asked if I could speak with him. We gave each other a friendly hug. “How’s Marty feeling?” Marty was on the brink of giving birth.

  Matt let out a deep sigh. “Uncomfortable, but hanging in there.”

  “Aww, poor thing. Tell her if she needs anything to not hesitate to call me.” I suggested.

  “Thanks, we appreciate it.” He cleared his throat and asked, “So, how are you guys holding up?”

  “Okay, I guess, under the circumstances. Quinn is dealing with it as best as he can. It’s just hard realizing that he’s actually gone. He was such a big part of my life and Quinn was just starting to form a relationship with him again. It’s been difficult.”

  He rubbed my upper arm. “He’s lucky to have you. I don’t really know Quinn all that well, but knowing Red, he would have been happy that you’re standing beside his son.”

  I smiled. “Thanks. I know he would too…..So, hey, I need a huge favor to ask. I was wondering if you could help with the service? I think having it here would be most appropriate, but I would love if you could sing a song in his memory? I hope that’s not asking a lot -”

  “I’d be honored.” He quietly accepted.

  I was relieved and gave him another hug. We talked a few more minutes until his order was up. I gave him his meal on the house and supplied him with plenty of lemons for Chuck. I had to laugh over that - Chuck and his lemons.

  By the end of the week I felt like I had been hit by a train; I wanted to sleep for a month, I was so tired. I was so glad the day was over. After getting Joey from school I took a quick shower and fell asleep in a matter of minutes once I laid my head on the pillow. I don’t think I realized I was asleep for so long until I felt a light kiss on my lips. I opened my eyes to the most beautiful man; his chocolate eyes were smiling down upon mine. I could stare into them forever.

  “Hey, Shorty.” Quinn said in a husky tone.

  Still sleepy I replied, “Hey, yourself. What time is it?”

  “Close to five.”

  “Oh man, five?” After I looked at my phone I realized I still had my bathrobe on. I yawned, stretched and gave my man a big kiss and hug. How I have missed him this week. “I feel like I haven’t seen you all this week. I’ve missed you.” I was now propped in his lap, arms wrapped around his muscular body, while holding me tightly, stroking my back.

  He whispered, “Same here. Wanna get dressed? Take you and Joey out to eat?”

  “Yes. Sounds perfect. Speaking of my son, I’m feeling like a horrible mother - leaving him alone while I sleep.” I got up and started getting dressed.

  “Shorty, he’s fine. He’s watchin’ a movie right now. You don’t need to feel guilty. You’re the perfect mother.” He said, reassuringly. He came up behind me and kissed my bare shoulder, which led to all kinds of goosies throughout my body. I had to shrug him off before I jumped him; that wouldn’t be good since Joey was in the next room.

  It was nice to see Quinn smiling after s
uch a grueling week. Even though he was smiling I could see he was still dreading tomorrow’s memorial service. I couldn’t wait for it to be over; I just wanted us to move forward - to be happy again. I was glad to spend some quality time with my boys. Quinn took us for mexican food in Del Mar which led me to drink a couple margarita’s. The food was superb, but the company was even better.

  Joey had been sleeping on the couch all week. He said he couldn’t sleep in his bed anymore because of Red. He was still scared he would die in it. It breaks my heart thinking that my baby is afraid of this happening. Quinn agreed that we would give the bed away and purchase a new one. I couldn’t stand seeing him suffer anymore. To some people it may not be a big deal, but for Joey, it was.

  The next morning there was an overwhelming feeling of melancholy. The weather was overcast; clouds hiding the sun and a chance of rain was in the forecast. Why does it seem like rain always appears during funerals? Could never understand that. Despite the gloominess I chose to wear something red - yes, in honor of the Red himself. I didn’t want to look depressing; I wanted his life to be celebrated, so I wore a simple, red A -line lace dress, along with a pair of cream colored pumps.

  I was double checking my appearance from the closet mirror when Quinn cloaked himself around me. “You look stunning.” He muttered.

  I shyly smiled and leaned my head against his massive chest. “Thank you. You clean up nicely yourself, Wolf.” Wearing a gray suit, gray tie, and a light blue shirt, Quinn was the most breathtaking man I had ever seen. It should be illegal to look that good.

  Staring at each other through the mirror he declares, “Not sure what I would do without ya, Shorty.”

  As I swoop my arm up around the back of his head I give him an appreciative grin. “I love you.” I softly tell him.

  He tells me the same just as the doorbell rings. “I better get that. Can you see if Joey is ready, please?” I ask.

  Walking to the front door I hear Quinn compliment Joey on his attire. I, then hear him reply with enthusiasm, “Thanks!” I love the joyfulness in his voice. It brings a positive energy into my dreary morning. And my morning becomes even more positive when I open the door to the one person I have been missing ever since she moved away - Vivian.

  I let out a surprising wail. “Vivian!” She comes barrelling into my arms as I start to weep.

  She soothingly says, “There, there my dear. I’m here, I’m here.” Her warm embrace eases my pain, brushing the back of my hair, up and down. “Shhh, it’s okay, I’m here now.” She repeats herself over and over as if I’m a small child.

  I couldn’t believe she was here; I was so happy.

  “Ms. Vivian!” I hear Joey yell gleefully. We let go of each other and her attention shifts over to him. He is thrilled beyond measures to see her; big hugs and kisses are exchanged between the two.

  “My goodness you have grown!”

  “Yep! I sure have!”

  I smile through my tears, witnessing this unexpected reunion. I look up to find Quinn smiling at me. I walk up to him and wrap myself around his thick torso and ask, “Did you, by any chance, have anything to do with this?”

  He caresses my cheek. “You needed her.”

  “Thank you.” I reach my lips to his and lightly kiss him.

  *****

  Reds was closed down for the day. People from all over the city came for the memorial. We heard some great stories from long time customers and friends. Quinn wasn’t planning on saying anything about his dad, but he quickly changed his mind. He knew it was the right thing to do. We were seated outdoors; thankfully the sun decided to make an appearance.

  Taking a step up onto the small stage Quinn adjusted the microphone, then placed his hands inside his pockets. “Uh…..I just want to thank everyone for comin’ today. Pop would have been deeply touched.” Clearing his throat - “He and I hadn’t been close for a very long time, but being back here - back at Reds brought me closer to him. I’m truly grateful for the short time we had together. I will never forget what he’s done for me. He’s given me his legacy; I’m proud of that. His legacy won’t be taken lightly. I intend to honor it.” Quinn signaled one of our employees to hand him a beer. He lifted his bottle and added, “Here’s to you Pops.” Taking a drink.

  He sat back down, enclosing his hand around mine. The final part of the memorial was unexpected for Quinn. Matt and Chuck took the stage and announced that they were going to play one of Red’s favorite songs from his favorite band: U2’s - “Only To Be With You.” I was a bit nervous with how Quinn was going to react, but he seemed okay with the idea. He squeezed my hand a little tighter, easing my anxiety.

  Once Matt stopped singing, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. I glanced at Quinn; he had one tear sliding down his cheek. I sniffed and lightly brushed it away. Matt’s voice was beautiful and the song touched so many of us. The place was silent.

  A line of refreshments and food were displayed once the service was over. The energy was lighter than it was when we first arrived. Everyone enjoyed being in each others company; mingling about Red and reminiscing the good times.

  When everyone left, the place seemed lifeless, yet somehow peaceful. It was an emotionally exhausting day for all of us - Quinn, myself, Joey and even Vivian. We all sat in one of the booths, drinking coffee; Joey doodling while eating a big bowl of icecream. I swear that kid can eat dessert like no other.

  “It was a lovely service, Quinn.” Vivian commented, softly.

  Nodding his head Quinn responded. “Yeah. It was.” He had his eyes on his coffee, rubbing the edges with his finger.

  I thought a good change of subject was needed so I asked, “So, Viv, how’s Oregon? How’s living with Beth going?” Taking a sip of my coffee.

  After taking a sip of her coffee, Vivian told us that she is settling in quite well, but was worried about Beth. She seems a bit withdrawn, quiet and sometimes sad. She thinks it could be due to the recent divorce, but wasn’t sure. I’m glad Viv is now with her daughter; from the looks of things, Beth really needs her mom. Later in the evening we dropped Viv off at her hotel. I hated saying goodbye to her, but promised we’d come visit soon. I wished she could have stayed longer, but she had to get back to Beth. My eyes became misty when she hugged Joey goodbye. He loved her so much. She kissed Quinn on the cheek and thanked him for keeping in touch - it was such a touching moment.

  It was late by the time we got back to the apartment. Joey was dressed for bed, watching a movie in the livingroom. I paused the movie to ask him a question: “I was thinking. How about we go out tomorrow and buy you a new bed?” I stroked the front part of his hair out of his eyes. “Hmm? Would that be okay with you?”

  “Mmmhmmm. Okay.” He agreed with a small smile. “But….. can the bed go in here?”

  Oh, my poor boy. He just broke my heart. I wanted to break down and cry for him I felt so sad. I felt the warmth of Quinn’s hands on my shoulders giving me the strength to get through whatever was going through my son’s mind. This is when being a single parent is the hardest; trying to find the right words to ease their pain; to reassure them that things will be okay. I was so grateful for Quinn’s presence, but at the same time it startled me.

  I shook my head, holding his hand. “No, baby, we can’t put the bed in here. You need to sleep in your room - in your bed. I understand your hesitance, but…….” - Quinn quietly took over when I lost my words.

  “How about you two come live with me?”

  I gasped and quickly turned around; eyes bugged out, mouth gaping open. I was stunned.

  Chapter 22

  Quinn

  The whole service felt like one big blur; I couldn’t remember names, faces or my speech. I just remember holding Sandy’s hand during’ Matt’s song. I hated cryin’ like a big fuckin’ baby, but hearin’ that song…...it stung. I wanted the day to be over.

  Havin’ Sandy by my side made everything easier; she took control of the situation that I don’t think I could ever have
done by myself. That’s why askin’ her and Joey to come live with me was so easy. I couldn’t imagine anyone else by my side but her. And I couldn’t imagine Joey livin’ in a space scared. I wanted to provide safety and happiness, but I’m not so sure Sandy felt the same. She told Joey we would discuss everything tomorrow. We both tucked him in and said goodnight. I, then, was dragged by the hand into her bedroom. She looked pretty pissed.

  I closed the door behind me and stood in front of the fire; my green-eyed beauty. All I could do was smile at her. She was so cute when she got upset. “Are you friggin’ kidding me, Quinn? We can’t move in with you?” Hands on hips, and sexy scowl.

  “Why not? It’s as plain as the nose on your face, Shorty. It makes perfect sense.” Still smiling.

  Trying very hard not to yell, Sandy said in a hushed voice, “Stop smirking!”

  I chuckle. “I can’t. You’re too worked up and I’m lovin’ it.” I step forward and tug on her hips, bringing her hot bod closer to mine. She huffed and couldn’t even look at me. I tilted her chin up and demanded her eyes to look at mine. I stopped smiling and became serious. “What is it?”

  She finally grabbed onto my waist and took a deep breath. “I’m just not sure we’re ready for such a big step.”

  “Babe, we’re already practically living together, so what’s the difference?”

  “I’m…..I’m just afraid. I’m afraid of depending on you too much and losing myself in the process.”

  I guided her to the bed and had us both sit down. “That isn’t gonna happen.”

  Her eyes looked perplexed; edgy. “How do you know? Talking with Joey, just now, I depended on your touch, your guidance and it felt really good, but It also scared me. I’m used to depending on myself; making decisions on my own. Living together would take that away from me.”

  I was a bit taken back with her confession. “Wait.” I slightly chuckled. “I’m confused, Shorty, I thought you said you wanted me as Joey’s dad, and that we were a family. Has that changed just because I want us to live together? Where is this comin’ from?”