Mystic Park

by Regina Hart

  “Thanks.” Vaughn was already turning away. His large, talented hand still braced the small of Olivia’s skinny back.

  Benita watched them disappear down the hall. She’d lost him. He was moving on with someone else. Vaughn was never going to join her in L.A. She would never have her happily-ever-after. Was it time for her to move on as well?

  Alonzo studied the shadows in Pearl Lake. They lightened as Saturday’s dawn stretched across the cool blue sky. The birdsong grew louder. The sun grew warmer. The air was fresh, crisp, and moist with morning dew. But his fishing rod remained still. It was as though the fish sensed his troubled thoughts.

  “Who goes fishing with a beach chair?” Jackson grumbled beside him as he recast his line.

  Alonzo glanced down at his companion. The cabin resort owner sat cross-legged on a wide, faded blanket beneath the large maple tree. Their backpacks, stuffed with supplies, lay behind him on the blanket.

  “People in their sixties who’d like to be comfortable while fishing with a friend.” The cork grip of Alonzo’s graphite rod was familiar in his hands.

  Jackson’s smile was quick and easy. There was a time when his smiles were nonexistent. That was before Audra. “How’s your wedding planning?”

  “Great now that Benita’s taken it over.” Alonzo chuckled. “Thanks very much for letting us have our wedding at Harmony Cabins.”

  “No problem.” Jackson took a long drink from his water bottle. It was the biggest water bottle Alonzo had ever seen.

  “Benita’s also sent out the invitations; set up the gift registry; booked the photographer, videographer, and caterer; and ordered the roses.”

  “Sounds like your June wedding is on track. Congratulations.”

  “Thanks.” Alonzo’s gaze lifted from his fishing rod’s aluminum reel to the whimsical ash wood bridge that stretched across Pearl Lake. The closer they got to his wedding, the more he feared something would happen to turn his dream into a nightmare, like Doreen finding out about his past.

  “So if your wedding plans are going well and you’ve announced your retirement, what’s weighing on your mind?” Jackson recast his nylon line.

  Alonzo had known Jackson would sense his turmoil. Was that the reason he’d asked the younger man to go fishing with him?

  “I’ve been in love with Doreen since college.” He took a long drink of the water in his normal-sized bottle.

  “A long time.”

  Alonzo’s gaze dropped to his fishing rod. The fish were still avoiding him. “When I returned to Trinity Falls two years ago, I realized she’d changed.”

  “How?” Jackson obviously hadn’t expected Alonzo’s words.

  “As a young woman, Doreen had been warm, friendly, caring—a bright light in the community.”

  “She’s still all of those things.” Jackson scowled, ready to defend his friend.

  “No.” Alonzo shook his head. “As a mature woman, Doreen is committed, compassionate, complex. Her bright light has become a supernova.”

  Jackson seemed to relax. “Doreen is an impressive person.”

  “And my feelings for her are even stronger now than when I first fell in love with her.” Alonzo paused. “I never would’ve thought that was possible.”

  “How is that a bad thing?” Jackson’s frown returned.

  Alonzo shifted on his beach chair. He was a lawman, not a poet. He struggled to find the words to express his fears and concerns about the woman who would soon be his wife. “I’m not good enough for her.”

  The silence was long and brittle before Jackson spoke. “Seriously?”

  “She’s built things, created things. What have I brought to the community?”

  “Law and order.”

  “She can point to things a lot more tangible than that, like the laptops in the elementary school computer lab.” Alonzo was proud of all of Doreen’s accomplishments. But they were sometimes daunting to someone who hadn’t achieved as much.

  Jackson uncrossed his legs and stretched them toward the lake. “Doreen thinks you’re good enough for her.”

  “The man she thinks she knows is good enough for her.” Alonzo so badly wanted to be that man.

  “Have you spoken with Doreen?”

  Alonzo hesitated. “I’m afraid of what she might say.”

  “You have to talk with her.” Jackson’s broad shoulders rose and fell with his deep sigh. “Audra taught me the importance of speaking from the heart. It’s hard. It’s scary. Believe me, I know. But it’s worth it. If you don’t make the effort, the people you love won’t know how you feel or how to help you.”

  Jackson spoke from experience. Three years ago, the rental cabin owner had been emotionally devastated by the death of his young daughter. Jackson had shut out the town and exiled himself to the cabins. He was like Beast in the French fairy tale Beauty and the Beast. Then, like Beauty, Audra arrived at the then-isolated Harmony Cabins. She helped Jackson heal his broken heart and returned him to civilization.

  “That’s sound advice.” But Alonzo still feared the risk was too great.

  “Remember Doreen loves you.”

  But if she learned the truth about him, would he lose her love?

  CHAPTER 8

  Late Saturday morning, Benita climbed out of her Audi and let her senses drink in the peace and beauty of Harmony Cabins. Pink and white blossoms dotted the nearby trees, ringing the cabin’s lawn and bordering the path. A faint breeze, carrying the promise of spring, teased her hair and rustled through the branches. A river rushed in the distance. She set her hands on the hips of her dark blue jeans and drew a deep breath of the fresh, fragrant air. No wonder Audra and Jackson continued to live at the cabins even after Audra had helped him reconnect with the Trinity Falls community. It was lovely here.

  Benita dropped her arms. She crunched her way across the path from the attached garage to the front door of Audra and Jackson’s cabin.

  Audra met her on the porch. “I know you’re a workaholic, but meeting on a Saturday to discuss my new contract offer is a bit much even for you.”

  Benita mounted the steps. “I didn’t have anything better to do.”

  “Maybe I did.” Audra crossed her arms.

  “Don’t worry. I won’t keep you long.” Benita stopped in front of her songwriting client. “You and Jackson can crawl back into bed within the hour.”

  Just then Jackson walked through the open front door carrying a tool box and one of the biggest water bottles she’d ever seen. “Thanks.”

  Benita fought a sudden, hot blush. “Hi, Jack.”

  “Benita.” He turned to Audra, his lips still twitching with humor. “I’ll see you within the hour.”

  Audra grinned around his kiss. “Promise?” She watched her lover descend the stairs and disappear down the path.

  “Sorry.” Benita shoved her hands into her front pockets.

  “It’s who you are, Benita.” Audra led her into the cabin.

  “Cabin” seemed an understatement for the large two-story structure. The decor was a near-perfect blend of stark masculine simplicity and complex feminine touches. The honey wood walls were decorated with original artwork. Benita recognized several of her great-aunt’s pieces. The matching wood mantel above the stone fireplace balanced scented candles, knickknacks, and photos of both Jackson’s and Audra’s families.

  The crimson throw pillows on the dark plaid sofa and armchair coordinated with the curtains that framed the windows and the area rug that spanned the flooring. The large flat-screen television set reminded her that the professional basketball were around the corner.

  “Why are you really here?” Audra gestured Benita to the sofa and lowered herself onto the armchair.

  “I told you, to discuss your contract.” Benita pulled the throw pillow onto her lap.

  Audra arched a disbelieving eyebrow. “The contract language is the same as it’s always been. They’ve offered me more money, though, which is a pleasant surprise.”

  “You
’re a multi-Grammy-winning artist. You command more money.”

  Audra gave her an amused smile. “It also helps to have a bully for a business manager.”

  “I’ll take that as a compliment.”

  “It was meant as one.” Audra crossed her legs, leaning toward Benita. “Are you going to tell me what’s on your mind? Or are we still pretending you want to discuss my contract?”

  Benita hesitated. “Vaughn’s dating someone else.”

  Audra’s amused expression sobered into concern. “I’d heard the two of you had broken up.”

  “I see you’re solidly planted among the grapevine.” Benita scowled. “Let’s see how you feel about it when it’s your private life making the rounds.”

  “I knew you’d be upset that I heard the gossip about your breakup.” Audra settled back on her armchair. “That’s the reason I didn’t call to ask how you were doing. But how are you doing?”

  Benita shrugged, looking away. “I’d asked Vaughn to move to L.A. with me. Again.”

  “Vaughn doesn’t strike me as someone who’d ever leave Trinity Falls. He loves it here. It’s his home.”

  “He won’t even give L.A. a chance.” Benita stood to pace the spacious living room. “He’s a brilliant musician. You’ve heard his work.”

  “Yes, I have. He’s very talented.”

  “And what is he doing with it?” Benita threw up her arms. “Wasting it in this obscure town in that unknown university.”

  “He’s teaching the next generation of composers, musicians, and music teachers.” Audra’s tone had grown cool. “Or are you unaware of the benefits of music education? It’s linked to better reading, writing, and math skills, and to developing critical thinking, something you could use right about now.”

  Benita gave Audra a considering look. “He could teach in L.A.”

  “He wants to teach here.”

  “He wants to do more than teach.” Benita paced toward the fireplace. “He’s written a musical.”

  “I know.” There was a smile in Audra’s voice. “He asked for my input on the songs.”

  He didn’t ask for my input.

  Benita ignored the sting that felt like rejection. She turned to her friend and client. “What did you think?”

  Audra spread her arms. “I loved all of his pieces. I wish I’d written them, especially ‘Forever Love.’”

  Benita’s heart swelled as though Audra’s praise was directed at her. “I’m very proud of him.” An understatement. “But how much exposure will his work receive, being played in little Trinity Falls? Where’s he going to perform it, the university?”

  “This town is his home. He loves it here.”

  “Jack loves Trinity Falls, too.” Benita waved her arm toward the front door. “His family founded this town. But he was willing to leave it for you.”

  “Don’t compare Jack and Vaughn.” Audra raised both hands. “It’s not fair. They’re two different people.”

  Benita set her hands on her hips. “I just want to understand how he could claim to love me but not want to leave Trinity Falls for me.”

  “The same way you say you’re in love with Vaughn but won’t return to Trinity Falls, which is your home.”

  Benita glared at Audra before pacing away. “Whose side are you on?”

  “You’re talking to the wrong person.” Audra was irritatingly reasonable. “I left Los Angeles for Trinity Falls, remember?”

  “How could I forget that my only real friend in L.A. left me?” Benita crossed her arms as she directed her scowl at the fireplace.

  “If Vaughn won’t relocate to Los Angeles for you, he’s never going to move.”

  “You have a point, but where does that leave me?” Benita was suddenly exhausted.

  “Move back to Trinity Falls.”

  Benita turned on Audra. “How can you say that?”

  “I’m your friend and I want what’s best for you. You belong in Trinity Falls.”

  “I’ve built a successful career in L.A.”

  “But you’re not happy there. Admit it. Here, you tell people what to do and they listen to you. You don’t get that kind of deference in Los Angeles.”

  “Not everyone here takes my advice.” Ms. Helen was a notable exception. Vaughn was another. Benita rubbed her index finger over her bottom lip. “You’re wrong. I can be happy in L.A. And now that Vaughn’s with someone else, what’s the point of my returning to Trinity Falls. There’s nothing for me here.”

  “Benita—”

  She held out her hand to stop whatever it was Audra was about to say. She spoke after a calming breath. “I’ll tell the recording company you’ve accepted the new contract. Let me know when you’ve sent it back to them.”

  Benita managed to leave the cabin and climb into her car without having a major breakdown. She slapped the tears from her eyes before driving back to Ms. Helen’s house. It had been a terrible mistake to come to Trinity Falls for the university’s ceremony in her great-aunt’s honor. Ms. Helen didn’t want the ceremony and Vaughn had broken up with her. Benita swallowed the lump in her throat. She couldn’t wait to return to L.A. and shake this town’s dust off her shoes.

  Vaughn stood on Ms. Helen’s porch late Monday afternoon. He was debating his next move. Was it a good idea to ask Benita to help him with his musical? Probably not. Working on a project with his ex-lover was probably the stupidest thing he could do. But he needed her help. Vaughn pressed his right index finger into Ms. Helen’s doorbell before he could make another mental round of this circular argument.

  About a minute later, the door swung wide. Benita’s smile didn’t reach her hazel eyes. “Come in. Doreen’s here. We’re all in the kitchen.”

  Why wasn’t she surprised to see him? Vaughn entered Ms. Helen’s home. He glanced at the peephole on the door, which offered one possibility; she’d been prepared to see him. But he was as nervous as the night he’d picked her up for their first date. That had been an experience. Her father had all but drug tested him.

  “Actually, Benita, I’m just leaving.” Doreen’s voice preceded her appearance in the foyer by seconds. She was bright and cheerful in a powder blue ankle-length skirt and lemon yellow blouse.

  “Welcome, Vaughn. We can use another Watcher.” Ms. Helen walked beside Doreen. Her snow white hair was contained in a thick braid that hung past her shoulders. She’d paired green yoga pants with a loose gold blouse. Purple socks protected her feet.

  Vaughn frowned from Benita to Ms. Helen as he stepped farther into the room. He caught Benita’s cinnamon and vanilla scent. “Who are the Watchers?”

  “Ms. Helen, why do you call us that?” Doreen gave her neighbor a chastising look. “We’re not spies. We just like to visit with you.”

  “Who wouldn’t want to stop by for tea and snacks?” Benita crossed to the other side of the room. Vaughn wondered whether she was putting distance between them.

  Ms. Helen didn’t seem convinced. “Are you here for tea, Vaughn?”

  “No, thank you, ma’am.” Vaughn still didn’t understand what he’d missed. “I wanted to pay my respects to you. But I’m here to speak with Benita.”

  Benita’s eyes widened with surprise. “About what?”

  “Could we talk in private?” Vaughn slipped his hands into the front pockets of his dark gray slacks.

  “I should leave.” Doreen hugged Ms. Helen. She adjusted her purse on her shoulder, then bid Benita and Vaughn a good afternoon before disappearing through the front door.

  “I’ll leave the two of you to the foyer.” Ms. Helen gestured toward the pale brown faux leather love seat. “Vaughn, are you sure I can’t interest you in some chai tea?”

  “I’m fine, Ms. Helen. But thank you for the offer.”

  “Then I’ll leave you two alone.” Ms. Helen started across the living room. “I’ll be reading in my bedroom, if you need me.”

  “Thanks, Aunt Helen.” Benita pointed toward a vent beneath the ceiling. “From her bedroom, she c
an hear everything that happens here.”

  Vaughn shook his head with a chuckle. “Thanks for the warning.”

  He couldn’t keep his eyes from enjoying the sight of Benita in her flowing red blouse and figure-hugging black pants. She had such long legs for such a short woman. He remembered the feel of them wrapped around his waist. Vaughn swallowed a groan.

  Will I ever stop wanting her?

  “How’ve you been?” He nearly winced at his lame question.

  “Fine, and you?” She hadn’t moved from her spot across the room.

  “Fine.” Vaughn shrugged off his tweed blazer and hooked it onto the black metal coatrack in the corner. The act brought him closer to her.

  Benita moved away from him again, this time to sit on the far corner of the love seat. “What do you want to talk with me about?”

  Vaughn lowered himself onto the love seat’s opposite corner. “I need your help.”

  “With what?”

  Vaughn leaned forward, placing his forearms on his thighs. “Do you remember the musical I’ve been working on?”

  “Mystic Park.” Benita crossed her long legs. “You had a flier about it on your bulletin board.”

  “I’ve received a grant to produce it.”

  “That’s fantastic!” Benita’s face lit up like a star on a Christmas tree. A wide grin curved her luscious lips. She threw herself against him.

  Her arms twined around his neck. In reflex, Vaughn’s arms wrapped around her waist. Her body was warm and soft in his arms. Her fragrance surrounded him, bringing memories of the distant and not-so-distant past. Images of other days and nights when he’d held her. He remembered the touch of her, the taste of her. His body burned.

  “Thank you.” Vaughn set Benita aside and stood with his back to her. It hurt like ripping out his heart and throwing it into the street.

  “I’m glad you decided to share your music. It’s about time.”

  The rustling sound behind him indicated Benita was straightening her clothes. He gritted his teeth and drew a deep calming breath.

  “You’ve been nagging me to do that for years.” Vaughn dragged his hand over his clean-shaven head. Could he risk looking at her now? His body still throbbed from their embrace, brief and spontaneous as it was.