The end of the first month of Cade’s rehab was fast approaching. Zander, my dad, and I were working tirelessly to get everything in order for “Francesca Taymon, Attorney at Law Office” to open. The sign was being made, the office was being renovated, and I couldn’t stop myself from ordering furniture. Everything was so pretty and enticing. I just couldn’t contain my excitement.
Today was a rare free day. I was taking advantage, doing as much of nothing as possible. I lay on the couch, snuggling with Hammy while listening to Lady Antebellum’s newest CD on repeat. The songs, the words, spoke to me in ways most couldn’t. My fingers dug deep in Hammy’s fur, petting and massaging him until his purr drowned out the lyrics. Between the vibrations of his body on my chest and the rhythm of his sounds, I drifted off into a much needed nap.
The doorbell woke me from my dreams. I dragged myself up, shuffling my feet to the door while smoothing my hair down. Shocked doesn’t begin to describe the way I felt when I opened the door to see a man standing there with a dozen, maybe more, of multi colored roses.
“Francesca Taymon?” his deep voice asked from behind the arrangement.
“Yes,” I said, the smile expanding on my face.
“Delivery.” He peeked around the side of them, placing the vase securely in my hands before turning and leaving.
I swung my hip, hitting the door hard enough for it to close. I walked gingerly, not wanting to harm the beauties I held, and sat them on the table right inside the living room. I pulled the envelope from the holder, making note of how heavy and large it was. I opened it frantically, hoping my thoughts were right in thinking these were somehow from Cade.
“Francesca—I hope you enjoy and these brighten your day like you brighten mine. I had Cason attach the letter. Love, Cade”
My heart did a squeal and my voice followed. Jumping up and down, I tried to contain myself from being happy, but there was no point. Cade Kelling sent me flowers and signed it with love. I grasped the letter in my hands, bounding over to the couch to get comfy to read it.
My lovely Francesca,
I hope you are doing well. The flowers reminded me of you, so I sent Cason to order them for you. I really hope you look at them every day and know that I’m thinking of you. I try not to dwell on how much I messed up with you in the past. I regret it, but I can’t go through life with regrets, so my therapist and I are working on it. Rehab is a hard process. I didn’t know it was this involved. I didn’t expect to learn so much about myself. I still have issues with how to deal with not drinking, but I’m doing better. Each day, every minute gets a little better.
Reid is supportive, but so annoying. He never isn’t happy. It’s kind of weird. It’s nice because he has been there, he knows what I’m feeling. A lot of the counselors have, but he’s just kind of stuck to me. I don’t think I’m ever getting rid of him, Francesca. I’m honestly a little scared he’ll move in with me when this is over.
Of course I remember the dance. I wasn’t planning on going, but I overheard someone talking to you about it and you confirmed you were going. I knew I had to. Being around you kept me sane, grounded, during those years. If only I’d realized I was in love with you then things may have been different. And yes, Francesca Taymon, I am in love with you. I have been since you denied the cracker I offered.
How is Hammy? I bet him and Ally are cute. He’s a sweet cat. He got his bowl off, right? I forgot to ask. I’ve never been responsible enough to own a pet, but I want to. I may get a fish or something when I get home. I can’t do too much to damage a fish, can I?
I wish you could come see me. I know you are going to rock at this lawyer stuff. I’m happy for you, excited really. I wish I could see the office. Can you take pictures of it? Maybe you shouldn’t buy furniture. You want to have room for everything you need, but if you keep buying it…you know? Why do women buy stuff so much?
You know I’m just teasing you.
I’m happy you’re working on moving past Josie’s death. I didn’t know her that well, but she reminded me of you. She was happy and brightened a room. If there’s anything I can do to help, I will. I’m here for you, Francesca. Always.
How is the lawsuit going? I can’t believe that place. Cason said my dad refuses to hire them for anything now. My dad is coming around…he hasn’t visited, but he’s sent messages through Mom and Cason. He seems to be trying. So, I have to try, too. We’ve never really got along. I don’t know why. Mom has always been the parent I go to for everything. I hope to make a better relationship with him.
I have to get ready for our circle meeting. I’ll anxiously await your next letter. Enjoy the flowers and I hope all your business stuff goes well. Until next time, I’ll be thinking of you, dreaming of you, and wanting you. And remember, I’ll always do anything for you, Francesca.
Love,
Cade
My smile could probably blind someone had they walked in my house in the moments after reading Cade’s letter. My heart was full, my house smelled fresh, and I was just happy.
Mangled Hearts Page 31