by Aimee McNeil
“All finished,” she declared.
Mel hopped off the sofa to regard the finished product. “Holy fucking shit balls. Your mother is going to die when she sees this dress.”
“I hope she likes it. I want it to be perfect for her.” Sophie fluffed the skirting and ran her fingers over the seams, making sure she didn’t miss anything.
“You are fabulous. Everything you do is fabulous…and that’s why we should go into business together.” Mel’s eyes widened with hope. “I’ve been doing some research. I think we should open a tea and cookie shop. Ever since you mentioned it yesterday it has been running through my brain over and over. It feels right. I think we should go for it.”
“Wow. Okay. I need to think about it.”
“Yay!” Mel hugged her.
“I said I would think about it.”
“I’m just excited you didn’t say no. I thought you were gonna laugh in my face,” Mel confessed.
“Thought about it.” Sophie chuckled. Mel gently slapped her arm. “I was joking. What we have to do is make a plan and see how feasible it is.”
Sophie and Mel sat down for the rest of the afternoon trying to put together a business plan. Sophie was surprised how much experience Mel had with how a bakery runs from her family’s business. The Internet gave them access to endless information about starting up similar companies and what’s involved. After researching costs, the start-up fees added up.
“I think I gave up stripping too soon. I might have to go back to work for a while.” Mel sounded a little deflated.
“We’ll figure it out, but the thing that’s working against us is the fact that that neither one of us is familiar with running a business. Let me talk to Margaret and ask her if she knows a good business consultant we can hire and iron out the details before we try to approach anyone for financing.” Sophie added some more notes to their growing list.
“I’m starting to get some savings from the amazing pay from Margaret. She has a lot of contacts and she’s been involved in a few local companies. It wouldn’t hurt. Until then, you can figure out what we’ll be selling. The red velvet cookies and the thumb drops are definitely in, they are highly addictive. I hope you realize this business could be very bad for our waistline.” Sophie laughed.
When they finally stopped working, night had already taken over the sky and the stars were struggling to make their appearance through the city lights. After all their research they were both in a good head space for what they had to work toward if they were going to make this a reality.
“Are we really gonna do this?” Mel asked, curled up beside Sophie in their dark apartment.
“Yes. I think we are.” Sophie admitted. “Let’s go for it. What do we have to lose?”
“All of our money.”
“True. I guess if it doesn’t work out I’ll have to join you on stage for your comeback show.” Sophie laughed.
“I highly doubt Mr. Hot Ass will let you back into that place, let alone up on stage after last time.”
“I have no idea where that’s going. He could be long gone by that point.” Sophie said sadly.
“God-boy looks at you like you’re the key to unlocking the mysteries of the universe. I highly doubt he has plans to go anywhere.”
“I don’t feel like the key to his anything.” Sophie laughed Mel’s comment off.
“I’m serious.”
“I don’t want to talk about it.”
“Fine. What is your mom gonna say when you tell her that you’re going into business with the crazy stripper?”
“I was thinking I might not tell her.” Sophie laughed. “Seriously though, I think she’s warmed up to you. It has been a couple of years now. I mean, who doesn’t eventually fall for your delightful character?”
“True.”
***
The next day Sophie arrived at Margaret’s early. The morning was unusually warm for the early hour. The night air brought no relief and the day threatened to bring an unruly heat. Sophie was glad she'd decided to wear her pale green sundress. It was lightweight, making it perfect for hot days. She always received compliments whenever she wore it because it matched her eyes. She wanted Ashton to notice her, despite Lucinda’s arrival and what it potentially meant. As much as Sophie tried to push him from taking center stage in her mind, she couldn’t stop her heart from thumping to the beat of Ashton’s song. Sophie ran her fingers through her hair before she knocked on the door.
“Good morning, Miss Sophie,” Charlotte said brightly as she swung open the door. “How are you this morning?”
“Great. Yourself?” Sophie asked, stepping into the house and looking around.
Charlotte chuckled. “He’s not here, dear. He went back to his place, but I’m sure he’ll be back soon. That boy is such a doting grandson to Mrs. Margaret. Never too far away.”
“Oh. I wasn’t looking for him,” Sophie denied.
“Of course.” Charlotte smiled, seemingly unconvinced. “Margaret is in the sitting room having her tea.”
Margaret was dressed and ready to take on the day when she walked in. “Good morning. How was your weekend?”
“It was great. I didn’t know that Ashton had a place around here.” She found herself speaking before she could stop herself.
“I’m surprised he didn’t tell you. He found a place shortly after he moved back into town and had it renovated. It turned out beautifully.”
Sophie decided to change the subject. Margaret was far too perceptive and she didn’t want to expose her feelings for Ashton. She didn’t know what Margaret would think of her lusting after her grandson. She didn’t want to upset her. “I finished my mother’s dress yesterday. She’s coming up this week to try it on. I’m keeping my fingers crossed. I’m very nervous.”
“I’m sure she’ll love it, I know what you’re capable of and I have no doubt that it’s a beautiful dress.” Margaret smiled, sipping on her tea. “I have some good news for you,” Margaret said mischievously. Sophie couldn’t help but smile at Margaret’s lively mood. “Sit and pour some tea.” Margaret waved her toward the other armchair adjacent to her own. Sophie sat down and let herself sink into the cushions.
“Okay, spill.” Sophie encouraged now that she was settled.
“Mr. Heshman, the gentleman who purchased your paintings at the auction, contacted me and requested to meet with you. He’s interested in showing some of your work in his gallery.”
“Really?” Sophie couldn’t help the ridiculous smile that consumed her face. “He wants to show my work?”
“Yes, dear.” Margaret chuckled with amusement. “I told him you would contact him today and set up the meeting.”
“That would be a dream!”
Sophie was barely able to hold the phone as she dialed Mr. Heshman later that morning. She was so nervous that she had to concentrate on keeping her voice steady and professional. He was a perfect gentleman on the other end of the line, going over details of what he had in mind. He was making changes at his gallery for a scheduled reopening. He wanted to present some new, fresh work and thought Sophie’s style was the perfect fit for what he was looking for. Mr. Heshman made an appointment with her to view her other work. When Sophie hung up her phone, she was overcome with excitement.
“Yay!” she said to herself in disbelief. It was every artist’s dream to be recognized and given the opportunity for exposure.
“Someone just got good news.” Ashton’s velvety voice startled her. She turned around to see him standing in the kitchen behind her. He wore a dress shirt and fitted blazer that was paired with jeans—a style that looked incredibly hot on him.
“Oh. I didn’t know you were here.” Sophie’s voice was slightly higher than she intended, making her want to cringe.
“What’s this?” He picked up a business card that Sophie had sat on top of her things. “Business consultant? Planning on conducting some business?”
Sophie grabbed the card from his hand and tucked it insid
e her bag. “Maybe. It’s someone Margaret suggested. I heard you have a new place nearby.” Sophie turned back to meet his gaze, changing the subject.
“Yep.”
“You didn’t tell me.” Sophie suddenly realized how little she knew about his life.
He shrugged his shoulders. “We were busy talking about other things and busy not talking.” He smiled but the feeling did not translate to his eyes.
“The man who bought my painting at the auction wants to display some of my work at his gallery,” Sophie blurted out. The news was too much to keep to herself and she wanted to share it with him.
“That’s great news.” Sophie watched the curve of his lips and found herself wanting to feel them upon her. Ashton stepped forward as if reading her thoughts.
“Don’t.” Sophie tried to pull back. He looked down at her with a pained expression, as if her rejection physically hurt him. “Yesterday when I saw you and Lucinda together it scared me and made me question what I’m doing.”
“No. Don’t question anything. There is nothing between me and Lucinda. I told you that none of that was real.” Ashton looked at her pleadingly.
“But it felt real to me,” Sophie whispered. Ashton’s hand caressed her cheek and his thumb gently traced her bottom lip.
“I’m sorry for any pain that I ever caused you,” he whispered.
They both turned abruptly as Charlotte hurried into the kitchen with a panicked expression. “Come quickly. It’s your grandmother.” Charlotte exchanged a worried look with Ashton before all three of them hurried toward the sitting room.
Margaret was leaning against the arm of the sofa when they walked in the room. Her normally flawless upswept hair was disheveled and she looked pale, accentuating the dark circles that had developed under her tired eyes. “I’ll be fine.” Margaret looked up at all their stricken faces. “I just slipped.” She waved her hand lazily, trying to brush off any concern.
“She collapsed when she tried to stand.” Charlotte told on her despite the look Margaret gave her. “I helped her get up.”
“Sophie, call her doctor and tell him that we’re on the way.” Ashton was immediately at Margaret’s side.
“Of course.” Sophie hesitantly backed away. Fear closed in on her; she was still clueless as to what was ailing Margaret.
“I told you I’m fine. I just need a moment to collect myself,” Margaret insisted.
“Stop being so stubborn,” Charlotte ordered Margaret. “We aren’t going to ignore this, Margaret.” It was then that Sophie knew how deep Margaret and Charlotte’s relationship ran. Charlotte’s concern was for that of a loved one, not just an employer. The years they had spent together formed a bond between the two women.
Dr. Reynolds’ receptionist informed Sophie that he would see her upon arrival without consulting the doctor first. Sophie was surprised by how accommodating the doctor was.
After her phone call, Sophie found Ashton helping Margaret in the passenger’s side of her car. “Dr. Reynolds will see her when she arrives at his office.”
“Good.” Ashton closed Margaret’s door and moved around to get in the driver’s side. His features were set and determined.
“I want to come,” Sophie declared. Ashton hesitated for a moment until he opened the rear door. “Thank you.” Sophie slipped in the back of the car. “How are you feeling now, Margaret?” Sophie asked, reaching over the seat and placing her hand on Margaret’s shoulder.
Margaret reached up and covered Sophie’s hand with hers. “I will be fine, dear. Don’t worry about this old woman.”
“Too late.”
***
Sophie sat in the waiting room next to Ashton. Neither one had said a word since they were told to wait while the doctor examined Margaret. Dr. Reynolds’ office was sleek and modern with everything in its place. White on white was the color scheme of the waiting room and nothing spoke of comfort. Sophie couldn’t help but think of how some colorful paintings upon the walls could change the feel of the room entirely from the cold sterile feel that was exuded now. A row of magazines were fanned out on the table in front of them, with all the latest gossip displayed, but Sophie couldn’t bring herself to focus on anything that could distract her from her thoughts. Margaret had been quiet on the ride, which only intensified Sophie’s worry.
Sophie watched Ashton’s knee bounce nervously beside her. Sophie didn’t know what to think; she had no idea how ill Margaret was, and sitting in an oncologist’s office waiting for word didn’t do anything to ease her concern. She had so many questions that were struggling to reach her lips but Ashton’s sombre mood made her refrain.
Sophie reached over and took Ashton’s hand in hers, intertwining her fingers in his and giving a comforting squeeze. He looked up at her then, his eyes a deep blue glazed with unshed tears. The worry for his grandmother was written all over his beautiful features. Sophie smiled softly and leaned in against his shoulder. He released her hand and wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pulling her closer. They stayed like that until the doctor came out to speak to Ashton. They both stood quickly as Dr. Reynolds approached.
Dr. Reynolds was a well-kept man with salt and pepper hair and a strong jaw. He wore his success in the way he carried himself. He seemed a gentleman in every sense of the word. Sophie couldn’t help but notice how his white medical coat was cut to show that even in his late forties he still maintained his prime physical form. He was a very impressive man and it was easy to fall for his genuine charm.
“I feel it necessary to move up your grandmother’s surgery. She has agreed to be admitted immediately.”
Ashton nodded in agreement. “Can we speak with her?
“Of course. Follow me.” They followed Dr. Reynolds to his examination room.
“I owe you an apology, Sophie, for not telling you of my health dilemma earlier. I wanted to save you any unnecessary worry.” Margaret reached out toward Sophie.
“You owe me no such thing,” Sophie disagreed. She took Margaret’s hand in her own.
“I have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.” Margaret smiled sadly as she squeezed Sophie’s hand. “Fortunately it has been discovered early enough. I have no plans to let this beat me. I have every intention of dancing at my grandson’s wedding one day.” Margaret smiled at Ashton, who was standing quietly by her side. “Now…” Margaret sat up straighter, turning her attention to Dr. Reynolds. “Let’s get me better, shall we?”
“Yes, we shall.” Dr. Reynolds’ smile was authentic and it made all three of them relax under its effect. His belief in Margaret’s recovery convinced Sophie to relax and to stop the panic that held her in its grip. They had hope that Margaret would recover well.
Chapter
Twenty-Three
Sophie sat in her apartment staring at a painting she had just finished, making sure the colors blended to her satisfaction. She wanted it to be perfect for when Mr. Heshman came to view her work. She had managed to create a stock pile of canvases over the past year and was happy with the selection she could place in his gallery. Even though her skills as an artist had been confirmed many times over by her professors and other people in the industry, self-doubt seemed to pull at her, questioning what Mr. Heshman would think of her pieces. This was the moment she was waiting for, to have herself out there for the world to see. She only wished she felt more confident instead of vulnerable.
When Sophie got home from the restaurant, Mel wasn’t home. She had left a note on the counter saying that she wouldn’t be back until tomorrow, complete with a winking smiley face at the bottom. The smiley face confirmed she was with Dustin. Sophie placed the business consultant card on the counter with their business plan and other paperwork they had gathered. A smile lightened her face; she was excited with the possibility of owning a business. She knew it wouldn’t be easy but she didn’t mind the challenge. Work was something she was always willing to throw herself into.
Sophie called the clinic. She wanted to check up on how Mar
garet was feeling. Her surgery was scheduled for tomorrow and Sophie was nervous. The nurse informed her that Margaret was sleeping and didn’t want to disturb her. Sophie tried to call Ashton as well and was only met with his answering machine. Sophie decided to distract herself with a painting she wanted to finish.
Sophie turned her iPod up as loud as she could stand it and sat in front of her painting. She wanted to drown out the worries that haunted her. Warmth pulled at her skin to the point of discomfort—the day had been relentless. Sophie hopped off her stool and checked the air conditioner. The air that was being pushed into the room was warm. “Come on!” Sophie complained as she turned it on full but it only continued to push warm air through its vent. “Great. I guess I have a date with Mr. Cleary tomorrow,” Sophie mumbled to herself. Sophie struggled to open the old wooden case window that groaned as she managed to pry it open. “That will have to do.” Sophie sighed. Unfortunately there wasn’t even the slightest breeze.
Sophie pulled off her shirt and pants. It brought some relief without her clothes. She tucked her iPod in her bra and went back to her stool. Taking down her finished painting, she grabbed a new canvas and set it up. Ideas flashed through her mind. She loved looking at a blank canvas and letting her mind get inspired to transform it. Sophie became lost in her creation. A gentle caress against her shoulder startled her and her paintbrush slipped from her hand, luckily missing the canvas as it dropped to the floor. Sophie pulled out her earphones and turned around.
“Ashton!” Sophie cried out. His arms wrapped around her tight, his lips teasing the sensitive flesh of her neck.
“I am so turned on right now,” he whispered against her ear, sending shivers through her.
“How did you get in?” Sophie looked up into his face. His eyes were dark and beautiful. It always amazed her how handsome he was as he looked at her hungrily.
Ashton nodded toward the open window. “You weren’t answering your phone and I saw your light was on, so I climbed up.”