Uncorked

by Rebecca Rohman

  He took off his clothes and crawled into the shower. As water cascaded over his head, a single tear rolled down his face. He thought of what might have been. He would have loved having a child with Chella, and he was even more worried about how she would handle this over the next few days.

  He dressed, packed Chella an overnight bag and headed back to the hospital. On the way, he stopped at their favorite breakfast spot and got some food to take to her, then picked up a bouquet with an array of calla lilies in a variety of colors.

  The following day, Chella was released from the hospital. The mood was sad and somber. They had not talked about the loss of their child since Mitch broke the news to Chella a couple of nights before. Actually, there were not many words between them with the exception of pleasantries. Occasionally, they would look at each other and exchange sad smiles, but that was about it.

  When they got home, Chella went straight to bed. Mitch wrapped up some work business and accepted flower deliveries sent by their friends. He napped beside her, but awoke alone. It was five in the evening. He searched the house but didn’t find her. Heading to the deck, he heard faint sobbing.

  His heart sank.

  The sunset was beautiful, and as he approached, he saw her on the floor leaning against the glass railing, crying. He scooped her into his arms, holding her close as the wind blew her hair across his face.

  He knew. He understood. Nothing could fix this or make her feel any better. He wished he could take away her pain. All he could do was be there for her and support her. He kissed her on the forehead.

  “I promise you, Sweetheart, it will get better. The pain will ease in time.”

  “I know,” she whispered after a long stretch of silence. “I just wish it wasn’t so hard.”

  “Me, too,” Mitch replied sadly. “But we’ll get through this, the same way we’ve gotten through everything else.”

  “It feels like it did when my parents died. I still can’t believe it. It hurts so much. How are you?”

  “I have my moments. It hit me when Dr. Forrester first told me. I couldn’t help thinking about what might have been. I’ve found myself going there many times since I found out. I’m happy that you’re physically okay, though. It was horrifying seeing blood all over the bathroom floor and not knowing where you were or what had happened. It really scared me. I love you so much, Chell.”

  “I love you, too. Sorry you had to go through that. I went to the bathroom to look for some meds. Before I knew it, I was lying on the floor in pain. I tried calling you, but your phone went straight to voice mail.”

  “I was on the plane on the way back home. I wanted to surprise you. Let’s go in, and let me fix you some dinner.”

  “I’m not hungry.”

  “Sweetheart, you have to eat something. All you’ve had since this morning was a banana.”

  “Nothing too heavy. I have no appetite.”

  “Come on, it’s getting chilly out here.”

  He helped her to her feet and led the way.

  Mitch fixed her a small chicken salad with garlic bread and chamomile tea to calm her. He hoped it would send her back to sleep. He was happy to see that she had eaten most of her dinner, and soon after, she went to bed. He had some work to do, so he stayed in the living room. He wanted her to have peace and quiet as she slept.

  Chella walked into the living room the next morning. Flowers filled every horizontal surface. Surprised, Chella remarked, “Where did all these beautiful flowers come from?”

  “The usual suspects,” Mitch replied with a smile. “How are you this morning, Sweetheart?”

  “I don’t know how I feel,” she replied, curling up next to him on the sofa. “What about you? How are you today?”

  “I think it’s sinking in.”

  “Did you tell anyone?”

  “No, I also asked our friends to give us privacy over the next few days so we can figure out how we want to handle things.”

  “That’s good, because I’m not so sure that I’m ready to talk to anyone about it yet. Maybe I’ll send out an email to everyone to thank them and let them know I’m okay.”

  “That’s a good idea,” said Mitch. “By the way, you did a great job with the house. It looks fantastic.”

  “Yeah. It’s too bad my first memories in it are so painful.”

  “Why don’t we go away for a couple of days? A change of scenery might be good for both of us.”

  “I’m not really in the mood to do anything.”

  “I promise, you won’t have to do a thing. I’ll even pack your bags. It will be good for both of us.”

  “Okay. I have to go to the doctor first, though. My appointment is tomorrow morning. Will you come with me?”

  “Of course, Sweetheart. You know I’ll be there to support you.”

  “So how are we feeling today?” Dr. Suarez asked as Mitch and Chella sat in the lounge area of her office.

  “The bleeding seems to have subsided a tad overnight, but it’s still heavy.”

  “Are you still cramping?”

  “Moderately. Nothing to talk about, really.”

  “How are you doing emotionally?”

  “I’m still getting over the shock of it all. Mitch has been great, though. I know it’s hard for him, too.” Chella squeezed Mitch’s hand and smiled.

  “That’s good. Continue with the dialogue. Try not to shut each other out. Do you have any questions?”

  “I was thinking it might be good for us to take a trip somewhere,” said Mitch. “Have a change of scenery.”

  “It’s a great idea,” Dr. Suarez replied. “Both of you have to heal emotionally, and you, physically. A trip might help with that. You have to give your body time to heal, so nothing too strenuous.”

  “Do you think we might be able to get pregnant again?” Chella asked.

  “It’s possible. I know this pregnancy was unexpected, but you have to take some time to heal first before your body is strong enough to handle a pregnancy.”

  “Should we be on some sort of birth control?” Mitch asked.

  “I would recommend it, yes. If you get pregnant too soon and your body isn’t healthy yet, you could miscarry again. It’s too soon for sex. Wait about six or seven weeks, possibly more. No swimming pools or baths either, only showers. I don’t want you getting any infections and complicating things. Check with me before you resume sexual activity. I’ll examine you first. At that time we can explore your contraceptive options, as well.”

  “Great. I guess that’s it then.”

  “Chella, take it easy. Keep communicating the way you have been. I want to see you regularly over the coming weeks. If you notice any new symptoms or need anything, please call me, you have my number. And go on that trip. It’s a good way for you two to start to heal as a couple.”

  After a long, hard week, Friday evening had arrived. Mitch had planned a trip for them and Chella had no clue where he was taking her. She was surprised when they checked in with British Airways, which meant it was an international flight.

  After getting comfortable in the first-class lounge, she smiled at him and said, “Aren’t you going to tell me where we’re going?”

  “I’m taking you to Monte Carlo, in Monaco, France. If you’re up to it we can even watch some tennis. There’s a tournament going on there this weekend. The final is on Sunday.”

  “Are you serious?”

  He handed her their boarding passes and a copy of their hotel reservation at the Monte Carlo Bay Resort.

  She sat on his lap and circled her arms around his neck. She gazed into his eyes and kissed him gently on his soft lips.

  “I can’t believe you did this. Thank you.”

  “Are you happy?”

  “I am. I almost forgot what if felt like to genuinely smile.”

  “We’ll get through this, Sweetheart.”

  After a one-hour stop in London, they arrived at the Nice International Airport. They picked up their rental car and took the stunni
ng, picturesque, half-hour drive to their hotel in Monte Carlo, Monaco. It was seven in the evening and the sun had already set. There was a beautiful pink glow over the Maritime Alps that surrounded Monte Carlo and the Mediterranean Sea. A sprinkling of lights glowed over the mountains, creating a romantic ambiance.

  They pulled into the circled entrance and a beautiful neo-classical structure stood before them. The valet and bellhop opened their doors and welcomed them. Inside, the lobby was grand, contemporary and sexy. Sleek lines in shades of brown, creams and a pop of vermillion graced the space. Staff with friendly smiles greeted them at the entrance.

  Their suite was stunning with two balconies—one overlooking the ocean, and the other, the beautiful Alps that soared over them. The décor was elegant.

  “This is beautiful. Thank you so much for doing this.”

  “We both need this. Why don’t we change and take a walk around? Maybe pick up some dinner later?”

  “Sure.”

  They walked through the lobby, and exited at the opposite end onto a wide staircase outside. It overlooked the beautiful gardens and massive lagoon that deviated across the grounds and through a surrounding building or two. Even under the night light, the crystal clear waters sparkled, along with the colorfully illuminated plants and flowers sprinkled methodically through the enormous space.

  Beautiful arched bridges connected the spaces, transporting them from one side to the next as they meandered around the various nooks and crannies. The sounds of waves lapping against the shore created a serene feeling, and as a light breeze came through, Mitch felt the goose bumps that instantly appeared on Chella’s arms. He immediately took off his blazer and draped it over her shoulders then folded her in his arms as they stood at the railing.

  “I still can’t understand why this happened. Why come so close to have it taken away?” Chella said sadly, gazing at the full moon over the water.

  “I wish I had the answer.”

  “I feel like we’re being punished.”

  “Maybe they’re tests that we’re being put through to see if we can handle a long-term commitment. Maybe the reward will be so much greater than the pain in the end.”

  “I hope you’re right. I feel like I’m losing my mind. I don’t know how much more bad news I can take.”

  “You’re stronger than you give yourself credit for.”

  “Sometimes I get tired of being strong. For as long as I can remember I’ve had to be strong for one reason or another. I’m tired...”

  “That’s why I’m here. For those moments when you feel that way.”

  “I hate putting up with myself sometimes. God alone knows how you’ve managed to do it for this long.”

  “I’ve done it because I love you. If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that we’ll get past this.”

  “You seem so sure.”

  “I’m sure because I believe in you. And in us.”

  “Thank you for being you. And thank you for bringing me to this amazingly beautiful place.”

  “It was my pleasure. I want for us to be able to get through this, together.”

  After going to watch the tennis match the next day, Mitch and Chella took a stroll along the water’s edge. They took time to admire a mega yacht or two along the way and stopped at a restaurant to enjoy a cocktail, remembering to take pictures.

  Mitch was in car heaven. Monaco’s streets were never-ending eye-candy views of exotic cars in every direction. When they couldn’t be seen, they could definitely be heard. It amazed them both—the number of exotic vehicles they saw in a few short hours and the variety of shapes and colors.

  When the sun started its decent, Mitch told Chella he made dinner reservations at another resort, so they returned to their hotel to get ready.

  Chella swept her hair to one side so it cascaded over her bare shoulder in elegant waves. She settled on a blush maxi dress with a blouson halter bodice that gathered and hugged her body at the hip and kissed her feet at the floor. She added a touch of eyeliner, blush, and lip-gloss and a pair of silver thong sandals. Along with her recently-acquired jewelry, her outfit was complete.

  As they zigzagged through the narrow, winding roads, Chella noticed the longer they drove the higher they went in altitude. She stared out the window along the way. The City of Princes dropped away.

  Ahead, she saw what looked like a hotel perched into the cliff-side overlooking Monte Carlo. It was the Vista Palace Hotel—she remembered seeing the property from their suite. The big V mounted to the top of the building was her reminder.

  A host escorted them to a lovely outdoor terrace. Elegant candlelit tables were set with fine white linens and sparkling stemware. Beyond the railings were stunning views of Monte Carlo, the Bay of Monaco and its picturesque mountains. Thousands of lights created an unbelievably romantic setting. As the host departed, Chella leaned over, kissed Mitch, and thanked him once more. Not that she had been out with many men, but he was the most romantic and endearing man she had ever met.

  As they sipped a glass of wine, the sounds of romantic French music played softly in the background. The woman’s soft husky voice and the light strings that accompanied her added to the amorous feeling.

  Their meals were delectable. They enjoyed different entrees, but shared an Opera cake with chocolate coffee syrup for dessert.

  “La Vie En Rose” by Édith Piaf began to play. Despite the fact that there was no dance floor, Mitch pulled Chella into his arms in a slow and sensual dance.

  Although she could not understand the words, Chella knew she had heard the melody before. The way it was sung told her it was a love song. Immediately after the French version was done, the English version by Louis Armstrong played. As they both listened to the words, they smiled at each other. It was as if the lyrics were written just for them. Mitch pulled her closer, brushed her lips with his and whispered, “I love you, Sweetheart.”

  “I love you, too. It’s safe to say this trip was your best idea ever. This place is magical. You’ve made this weekend really special for me. I will never forget it.”

  “I take absolute pleasure in making you happy. It turned out better than I could ever dream. I love traveling the world with you.”

  “Me, too,” she said as she tightened her arms around his neck. The song continued. When it ended, he kissed her softly once more. They returned to their table and some of the other patrons applauded. Evidently, they had attracted some attention. Chella blushed at the unexpected attention. Mitch smiled politely and sent their admirers a careless wave. Soon after, they paid the bill and started their descent. At their hotel, they went for a walk in the gardens.

  “I’m not looking forward to leaving,” Chella said softly.

  “I know how you feel, but we’ll be back some day. I promise.”

  “Next time for much longer. We managed to squeeze in a lot of trip into two days, though.”

  “And it’s not even over yet. Who knows what might happen tomorrow?”

  “What do you have up your sleeve, Mr. Mariani?”

  “How about a great breakfast and a heli-ride back to the airport?”

  “That sounds great. The aerial views of the Côtes d’Azur must be magnificent.”

  “So I’ve been told, but we’ll see it for ourselves tomorrow. Let’s sit.”

  He led the way to one of the round loungers. It was quiet and mostly private with views of the lagoon and sounds of the water fountains nearby. He sat on the lounge, circled her in his arms, and kissed her lightly on her neck.

  They chatted for hours under the starry skies of the French Riviera. In that moment, Chella seemed to have forgotten about the last week. That night she smiled on many occasions, and in two instances, she even laughed aloud, all signs the old Chella was returning. He caressed her body as he kissed her softly on her shoulders and the side of her neck. She turned to face him. He pleasured her lips with his. She indulged him, allowing him to explore her mouth deeply. He pulled away slightly, brushing
aside her hair that brushed her face and gazed into her eyes.

  “Feel better?”

  “I do. This weekend has been wonderful. Thank you.”

  When they returned to their room, Chella went to get a shower. Mitch pulled his cell phone out of his pocket and realized he had several missed calls, two from Detective Carter and one from their lawyers. Something was going on in San Diego, but he wasn’t sure he wanted to know what it was right then. For his sanity and for Chella’s he ignored them for now. Chella was starting to come out of her shell again. Upsetting her with any bad news was completely unacceptable. That being said, he knew he’d have to find out what it was before they touched ground in San Diego.

  Chella and Mitch enjoyed breakfast at a lovely outdoor restaurant for the last time on this trip. It was a beautiful day with clear blue skies and mild wind. As they ate, they admired the rocky-faced mountains that had become one of the signature views of their trip.

  After one last short walk around the hotel, they checked out and took the cool walk over to meet the helicopter that awaited them at the hotel’s private helipad.

  As they hovered over Monte Carlo and Nice, Chella understood why the area was called the Côtes d’Azur. Many things were amazing shades of blue. The seas were royal blue—very fitting for a principality called the City of Princes. Then there were the blues skies. Even the mountains in the distance seemed to have a slight tinge of blue. It was the perfect way to end their trip and say goodbye to what Chella thought was the loveliest weekend she had ever experienced.

  On the layover in London, when Chella took a break and went to the bathroom, Mitch finally checked his messages from the night before. The one from his lawyer was news about the magazine article, but Detective Carter had called him twice, urgently requesting him to call.

  Jade’s sentencing would be in a few days, so he thought that perhaps this had something to do with her case. He hesitated a bit, but finally called the detective.