Catching Fox

by Aimee McNeil

  “Fox, I appreciate you coming over last night. It was a moment of weakness and I needed you but I’m not naïve enough to think this will change anything. I know how this works. I will save you from having to spell it out for me again.”

  “Bee?” He reached for her but Adalynne stepped back.

  “I really have to go and you have a tour to get back to.” Adalynne tried to keep her calm. She couldn’t afford to get emotional right now. She needed to hold herself together until she got home and made sure Elizabeth was all right. His expression was defeated as he stepped back, letting her pass.

  Adalynne packed quickly, throwing all her belongings in her bag. She dressed in a state of panic, unable to process simple thoughts as she threw on whatever clothes were sitting on top of her suitcase. When she came out of the bathroom Fox was already gone. She tried to keep her mind distracted from the news Kent had given her, trying not to process it until she got home and knew all the details.

  Adalynne scribbled a note to Katie, sliding it under her door. Her plan was to take the next possible flight back home when she arrived at the airport. She felt bad leaving a vague note but she didn’t want to alarm her on the morning after the wedding. She didn’t want to ruin their bliss.

  The journey home was surreal as Adalynne let numbness and denial settled over her. She turned on her iPod and let the music drown any thoughts that tried to enter her mind. She kept reminding herself that she needed to hold it together until she got home. When the plane finally landed, Adalynne called Kent to find out what hospital Elizabeth was in. Instead, of relinquishing the information, Kent insisted she meet him at the Music House. She could detect sorrow in his tone and it terrified her. She suspected the truth she would soon face.

  During the drive Adalynne felt the tears overcome her on more than one occasion, having to pull over and allow herself time before resuming her drive. When she pulled up she could see his car there in front of the remains of the building. It was devastating to see the scorched remnants of the place Elizabeth and she had spent so much time trying to build up. A few vehicles were parked in the lot but Adalynne could not register who they were.

  Adalynne stepped out of her car, her eyes finding his as Kent approached. His expression told her the truth before he even spoke. “She didn’t make it, Addie.”

  Kent wrapped his arms around Adalynne as she fell, catching her. “Elizabeth…” she cried. She wasn’t sure how much time had passed as she held onto Kent. She let him console her as they stood in the parking lot, both completely devastated from the loss. Adalynne heard her name called by an unfamiliar male voice.

  “Adalynne Fairweather?” She turned to see a police officer standing behind her.

  “Yes.” Adalynne wiped her eyes.

  “Mrs. Elizabeth Martin had you listed as her next of kin. I need to talk to you about the details regarding her death.”

  “Can Kent come?” She clung to his arm, knowing he was the only reason she was still standing. It was strange how the dynamics of their relationship had changed dramatically under the circumstances. Kent was a guitarist who had worked on and off with the Music House. Until today Adalynne had never discussed anything with him other than work related topics but they both had a great appreciation for Elizabeth. Kent had been a former student of Elizabeth’s and he was also inspired by her passion. Now, he was Adalynne’s support in this tragedy.

  The police officer told Adalynne they believed the cause of the fire was faulty wiring. An investigation was being conducted to confirm their suspicions. The fire spread quickly because of the age and condition of the building. They believed after Elizabeth had called to alert the authorities she did not exit the building. Instead, she tried to gather some personal belongings before ultimately surrendering to smoke inhalation.

  Over the next few days Adalynne dealt with the raw emotion of the loss of her close friend. Unfortunately, it was not a feeling she was unfamiliar with. Old feelings were stirred and soon the grief felt suffocating. Adalynne felt she suffered more loss than one heart was capable of enduring in one lifetime.

  By the time Adalynne had checked her phone that day, Katie had already left countless messages. She called Katie back as soon as she could manage. Like always, Katie was her emotional support. She stayed on the phone with her for hours, even when all Adalynne could do was cry.

  Katie told Adalynne when Matthew met them to leave for the airport he was sporting a black eye and a fat lip he refused to talk about. He also refused to let Katie listen to Outcome on the drive home, saying that the lead singer was crazy. Adalynne didn’t tell Katie, but she had her suspicions that Fox had paid Matthew a visit.

  Adalynne called and told her mother what happened to Elizabeth but their relationship was still strained. Adalynne could not bring herself to face her mother. She needed time to deal with her loss in her own way. She spent most of her time over the days that followed at John’s house. Being around John and Meredith made everything more bearable. Even though Fox was a topic they avoided, their hearts were both invested in him, giving them a bond.

  John had not spoken with his son since he had left home before the end of high school. Adalynne knew Fox had sent money home regularly to his father but it had been their only contact in years.

  Adalynne told John she had seen Fox in Vegas, telling him about the concerts, his fame, and success. She could see the pride in John’s eyes. Although it pained him not be in his son’s life, he was proud of what Fox achieved.

  Adalynne avoided telling John anything that had happened between Fox and her, only the information that seemed important to pass on. He seemed grateful she had told him. Adalynne was proud of John for turning his life around, he was a completely different man now that he was learning to shake off the demons of his past.

  John worked hard every day to get his life back in order, and Adalynne was proud of his success. She knew John had to be the one to decide when to reach out to his son. It was his decision alone when he felt ready.

  The day of Elizabeth’s funeral arrived before Adalynne was ready for it. Luckily, Elizabeth had prearranged all of her funeral arrangements leaving no guess work. A public ceremony was prepared so the community was able to show its respect for her. The church was packed with so many faces that frequented the Music House. It warmed Adalynne’s heart to know even though Elizabeth did not have any blood relatives, the service was full of people that loved her.

  Adalynne stood in front of the large crowd, looking at all the faces directed at her. She saw Katie and Steven smiling encouragingly. Molly and Brooke were sitting together close by. John and Meredith were sitting front and center. Everyone she knew would be there to show their respects to a wonderful woman. The only unexpected face among the crowd was her mother, who had seated herself next to John and Meredith. She didn’t think her mother’s presence would affect her as much as it did, especially since she had avoided her lately. Seeing her mother among her closest friends gave her the encouragement she needed to speak in front of the awaiting crowd. Her mother had come to show her support and in that moment she realized just how much she needed her.

  “We are gathered here today to show our love for Elizabeth Martin. She was a beautiful woman with inspirational dreams she brought to life for the people of this community. It was her vision to bring music into the lives of the children and people who desired to learn the ‘language of the soul,’ as she used to refer to it.” Adalynne paused to take a deep breath. Kent was at her side and he placed a comforting hand on her back. She looked up and met his eyes. He had become a reassuring presence in her grieving. They both shared a love for Elizabeth and now they had turned to each other in support. It was nice to be able to speak to someone who knew Elizabeth as closely as she did.

  “I remember the first time I met Elizabeth. It was the day she purchased the Music House, it was just an abandoned building at the time but Elizabeth saw potential. She saw all the possibilities she could create through music. It was then, l
ooking into her bigger than life heart, I was convinced I would do what was in my power to help her dream come to life. That was the way Elizabeth was, she inspired everyone. She inspired me to carry on her dream because it has become my own. I will rebuild the Music House in Elizabeth’s name and continue to bring music into people’s lives.” Adalynne smiled through her tears as the crowd met her with smiles and applause. “She will never truly be gone because she will live on in the music that we create in her name.”

  Adalynne loved hearing everyone’s stories of Elizabeth, some made her laugh and some made her cry, but they all made Elizabeth seem closer. Talking about her with all the people who loved her helped the healing process. So many of the people were delighted Adalynne was planning to rebuild the school, extending their gratitude and help should she need anything. Adalynne knew Elizabeth was loved but was still overwhelmed with how many people were touched by her.

  “I’ve known Elizabeth for many years. She was one of the best. She spoke of you often. You said she was your inspiration but you should know that you were also hers. She loved you, Adalynne, and she would be so proud to know that you’re going to rebuild the school and carry on.”

  “Thank you, Mrs. Steinberg, for your kind words.” Adalynne smiled. Mrs. Steinberg was a tiny woman with gray hair she always pulled back into a bun on the base of her neck. She had stopped by on occasion to share a tea with Elizabeth. Elizabeth had told her they taught at the elementary school together years ago and remained friends.

  Adalynne turned with a soft touch on her shoulder. “Mother.” Adalynne smiled. Most of the guests had already left, leaving only small groups still sharing words.

  “Do you have a moment?” She could tell her mother had been recently crying. Everyone was feeling the loss, even those who didn’t know her well. Adalynne glanced over at Katie and Steven, who were waiting for her to join them for dinner before they returned home. Katie gave her an encouraging wave, letting Adalynne know they would give her a few minutes with her mother. Katie was aware of the tension that Adalynne had with her mother lately and was supportive of her mending the rift between them.

  “Of course.” Adalynne led her mother to sit in privacy.

  “I haven’t been as supportive as I should have been in your music career. I believed it was merely a temporary endeavor, something you would eventually grow tired of, but now I see I was wrong. I want you to let me be a part of your life.” She took her hand and held it in hers.

  “I would like that very much. I missed you, Mom.” Adalynne wrapped her arms around her mother. “Thanks for coming.”

  “I missed you too. You have suffered too much for someone so young, losing your father and now your close friend. ” She squeezed Adalynne tight. “I don’t want to waste any more time on frivolous things. We need to be able to be a family, Addie. I want to be the mother you need. Your father left big shoes to fill and I need to start.”

  Chapter Twenty-Four

  Over the next few months Adalynne focused on rebuilding the Music House. Adalynne received the money the insurance company issued, giving her the funds needed to initiate the plan. Elizabeth had also left her house to Adalynne.

  Adalynne used the three bedroom house as a temporary music school to offer classes while the new school was being built. It was cramped and didn’t allow them to resume all the classes they would have liked but they made do. None of the musicians complained, arriving every day to their cramped quarters. Adalynne appreciated everyone’s optimism and patience. Once all the initial groundwork for the new school was laid and the construction could begin, Adalynne sought out John’s help to give her guidance on how to begin the process. Even though John had removed himself from the construction industry years ago, he still had connections and was familiar with the methods.

  John got in touch with a contractor he had been good friends with when he was younger. Luckily, he was eager to help with the project. Before long everything was coming together. Adalynne stood on the lot cleared of the debris from the fire and watched the beginning of the rebuilding process. Kent was by her side and they both smiled at the new beginning. They knew Elizabeth would be proud.

  “We should go to dinner to celebrate.” Kent nudged her shoulder.

  “Sure, sounds great.” Adalynne smiled. She hadn’t thought much of her relationship with Kent at first, other than that they were there for each other in their time of need, but lately his subtle touches and comments told that his intent was not a platonic relationship. At first she chose to dismiss his advances as her imagination but now there was no denying his meaning as he wrapped his arm around her shoulder and left a kiss upon her forehead, leaving his lips to linger against her skin.

  Since Adalynne lost Elizabeth, she needed someone to distract her from her pain and Kent became just that. She knew it was selfish of her to lead him on but she told herself that he needed her as much as she needed him. He was tall, fit, and he took care with his appearance. His hair was long and his rugged features gave him handsome charm, although Adalynne couldn’t help the disappointment she always felt when she looked into his eyes and was not met with the beautiful sea of green that she loved so much. Kent had deep brown eyes and as handsome and amiable as he was, he was not Fox. She couldn’t stop herself from making comparisons—a habit she was doomed to repeat.

  Even though Adalynne wanted to run to Fox, she couldn’t. It wasn’t fair to either one of them. She began turning to Kent more and more. Their relationship began to shift in a new direction, one that promised intimacy. She knew going to dinner meant that they would be officially taking the next step; the truth hung in the air between them. After her failed attempt with Matthew she was in no rush to try again any time soon, even though she had physical needs she wanted to satisfy. Her body craved touch and affection. Adalynne wanted to feel desired and Kent seemed more than willing to comply. If she set the tone of their relationship as sexual in nature it might make it easier to walk away. She didn’t want expectations or promises.

  “Actually, why don’t you come to my place.” She smiled nervously at Kent. “No date, just two people looking to see what happens behind closed doors.”

  Kent’s features lit up. “I can live with that.”

  “Seven?” she confirmed, hopping into her car to head to her classes. She was finishing out the spring semester. She would soon be freed up to commit herself to teaching classes full time during the summer months. She didn’t know if it was wise to start something with Kent because they worked with each other but she was tired of thinking about every small detail. Being a little reckless seemed very appealing right now.

  Katie and Steven had finally broken the news to their parents. Steven had been right when he assumed his parents would take the news with some difficulty but it didn’t take too long for them to recover. Steven’s mother insisted once the baby was born they have a proper wedding ceremony. Steven and Katie had anticipated his mother would insist and willingly accepted the request.

  Adalynne laughed when Katie replayed how her mother shuffled through every possible emotion before she laughed through her tears and hugged Katie while she congratulated her. It was the first grandchild for both sets of parents, so excitement was bound to win over the initial shock of the news.

  Katie called Adalynne every day on video chat so she could show Adalynne her growing belly and cute maternity clothes. Also, since Adalynne was not there she had to inform her of her morning sickness that wouldn’t subside and how she couldn’t get through the day without having a nap. Adalynne loved the detailed renderings of her days because Adalynne didn’t feel so guilty missing out too much on Katie’s life.

  Their time together soon became just their daily video chats when Steven didn’t want Katie traveling on her own while pregnant. His protectiveness had increased when Katie began showing. Adalynne was committed to her music lessons. They consumed her free time but they did not let it deter them. Their friendship was just as strong as ever. It was something Adaly
nne could always count on.

  When Katie called her, screaming excitedly that Steven was taking a job offer close to where Adalynne lives, Adalynne couldn’t help but scream back in the phone. Katie said Steven was tired of Katie sulking about not being about to see her. When he was offered the job he decided to take it for his sanity. They were currently trying to find a place and make the move. Katie had finished out her year but was going to take some time off to have the baby and adjust to life as a mom while Steven began his career.

  ***

  At 6:55 Adalynne’s buzzer rang, indicating Kent had arrived. Adalynne had flipped back and forth between fearing she was making a big mistake, to wanting to throw caution to the wind. Eventually she pulled on her sexy black dress, committing herself to letting her wild side out for the evening. Adalynne pulled open the door to reveal Kent with a bouquet of flowers. He was dressed in a freshly pressed bold shirt that looked like a painting, putting the beautiful flowers to shame. Adalynne smiled to herself. The fact that he was an artist was written all over him.

  “Too much?” he asked, looking down at his shirt.

  “No, it’s very you.” She laughed. “I like it.” Kent was definitely the thinking out side of the box type and had his own set of rules to live by. It was refreshing.

  “I know it’s not a date but it didn’t feel right coming empty handed. And might I say that dress is sinful and I am suddenly very, very nervous.” He stepped over the threshold, passing the flowers to Adalynne. His hands shook slightly affirming his statement.

  “Thank you, they are beautiful.”

  “I really like your place.” He looked around as Adalynne placed the flowers in a vase, setting them on the counter.

  “Thanks.” Adalynne bit her lip. She gave Kent a mischievous look and took his hand. “Let me show you around.” She led him through her small apartment, ending in her bedroom, standing next to her bed. “And this is my bedroom.” She motioned toward her bed. Kent swallowed exaggeratedly. She had never seen him so quiet before.