Blemished Love Episode 16 – Loudest Thoughts
‘Are you checking me out now? We have something called privacy Dane.’
‘You call meeting with a guy you barely knew for drinks privacy.’
‘How did you know I met with Bryan?’ She was trying so hard to control her anger that night.
‘So it’s true. Lisa, am I not enough for you.’
‘What is this really about Dane? Because I remember cutting ties with Henry when you asked me to so what is it you want from me now?’
‘You didn’t, I saw you coming out of Henry’s apartment last week dawn. What do you call that?’
‘We call it mind your business. You can’t just keep monitoring me around when I’m laying down everything for you.’
‘Oh really, if you can’t be with me alone and not sneak out of guys house at dawn as if you went stealing something which wasn’t yours , then let’s quit.’
‘Have it your way.’ She replied angrily and hanged up.
Just that minute her phone rang.
‘What do you want now? I said it’s over.’
‘Lisa, are you okay?’ The voice drew her attention to the caller ID.
‘Bryan, I’m sorry I yelled at you but can we talk another time.’
‘That’s perfect. Goodnight.’ He hanged up before she could.
Melisa buried her face in between her three pillows.
‘He stopped calling for two weeks and suddenly thinks its okay to monitor me.’ She hissed. ‘I can’t remember disrespecting him too.’
‘Maybe, you are doing something wrong.’ Julia startled her.
Julia switched on the light and stood by the door with her arms folded.
‘Aunty, you know how I so much hate it when you sneak up on me.’
‘I know but I did this on purpose. You hate this so does your boyfriend also hates whatever you keep doing out there with Henry.’
‘Not you too aunty. I told you he stopped calling because he thought i didn’t want to marry him when I obviously don’t want to rush into marriage.’
‘I heard all that and how you kept yelling at him earlier.’
‘He’s monitoring me and I don’t like it.’
‘I think that’s not right too but you keep giving him reasons to.’
‘I know what you are thinking.’
‘Good, so?’
‘I’m not having sex with Henry anymore.’ In fact, I haven’t been laid since I met Dane.’
‘You took my advice?’
‘Yes, It hasn’t been easy and Henry keeps bugging me about it.’
‘But you were in his house, I guess you were just sleeping by him.’
‘Kind of but it’s not like that aunty.’
‘You see how silly you sound and look right now. Who wouldn’t be angry over her girlfriend gracing another man’s bed?’
‘I’m sorry, I just needed so…
‘Sex, because you weren’t getting that from him right.’
‘I wa…s go…ing to say some comfort.’
‘What’s the difference when it all involves touching you.’ Julia walked closer and sat with her on the bed now.
‘He didn’t touch me, trust me.’
‘I trust you but the other guy in your life won’t believe you so the earlier you stop going to Henry’s place the better. You aren’t a kid anymore.’
‘Alright, thank you.’ Melisa responded.
‘Don’t thank me yet and who is Bryan.’
‘Just a friend of Paige. We had one drink together and that was it.’
‘Just a friend and you are blushing. May I remind you I’ve been at your age before?’
‘Aunty, believe me. I love D, and nobody else.’
‘Then talk to him about what’s bothering you. Make him understand you don’t like to be monitored.’ Julia had her full gaze on her.
‘I will reach out to her later.’
‘And the sex, I don’t know how you two can work that out but I want you to be happy. If you are not happy being with him, just walk out. I will help you cry yet again as I’ve been doing for years.’
‘You are a God sent Julia Smith.’
‘I know I am but the next time you call me by Joe’s name, you will see the other part of Julia.’ She smacked her niece.
‘I know your other side and I also know Joe comes to sleep in this house when I’m not around.’
‘Huh, who told you that lie?’ She coyly asked.
‘No one but your demeanor just confirmed it. Just let me know when you need the house so I can travel for a year.’
‘I don’t want you to go for that long. The small travels are just fine with us.’
‘So it’s true. Is it official yet?’
‘We are not dating, if that’s what you think.’
‘But you are having fun right?’
‘I guess so considering his ex-wife is still in the picture, I’m sure this fun will all come to an end soon.’
‘Don’t think like that, besides they are divorced and that’s what you wanted not to be with a married man.’
‘But it felt wrong when it seemed I gave him the idea when his wife cheated on him. That was the main reason why I pushed him away.’
‘No you didn’t push him away, they might have tried to work it out and it didn’t work.’
‘You are right.’ Julia said and her phone rang.
‘It’s Joe.’ Let’s talk tomorrow morning Lisa.’
She nodded and flashed Julia a smile.
***
‘What’s with you and the couch anyway?’ He asked pulling Grissel’s long blouse to cover their naked body on the floor. Though it wasn’t entirely covering everything, it did its best.
‘I just love it here.’ She kissed him once more.
‘You never did tell me about who your first was.’
‘Oh just some guy.’ She frowned.
‘Is that where your energy and then the couch ideas…..’
‘Tom. Let’s not go into that. It’s unhealthy please.’
‘Okay Love. I just hope I get to hear that story someday.’
She raised her head from his chest as they moved from the couch earlier to the floor. Grissel stared in his eyes and made to talk.
‘What?’ He stroked her hair when Grissel suddenly kept quiet.
‘Nothing. Can we just lie here tonight?’
‘We could, expect we are yet to take our shower and lock up.’ Tom told her smiling.
‘Can’t that wait? Especially now that I’m ready for your children we need to spend more time cuddling.’ She winked.
Tom quickly picked himself off the floor sitting against the couch.
‘Are you serious?’
‘Yeah though I’m not sure if I can be a good mom to your kids, I just think this is the best time to start.’
‘Thank you so much.’ He hugged her grinning more than usual.
‘But wait, you said my kids. Why do I feel, you are just doing this for me.’
‘Sorry, our kids.’
‘Okay, but I will be around to help you so don’t worry about how good you should be.’
‘I know you will be around but you don’t understand me. I’m scared Tom.’
‘Come here.’ Tom drew her closer and she rested on his bare chest while he encouraged her.
‘I would also appreciate if you talk to me instead of Julia. I know we’ve been having problems a lot lately but I want you to know I listen when you talk but I just sometimes disagree.’
‘I’m sorry, I didn’t think Julia was going to talk to you that soon. I was hoping to call her back tomorrow.’
‘She was here yesterday while you were at work.’
‘Was that why you changed your mind about having kids now because if you are still not ready, I totally understand you.’
‘Not at all, she aired her view and I think I was just holding back because I’m scared.’
‘Alright, we can discuss this later as I know your plan is just to sleep here tonight.’ He dragged her up quickly.
‘Oh Tom. Let’s stay for just an hour more.’
‘I have work tomorrow and I have to be up early.’
‘But tomorrow is a Sunday.’
‘Miss Lucky wants me at work tomorrow morning. Sorry I forgot to tell you.’
‘I hate going to church alone Tom.’
‘Duty calls, Love.’
‘Why do I feel like, you are doing all this to please your boss?’
‘Come on, she’s been nice to me since I got back to work.’
‘Is this where you tell me she’s actually a nice person.’
‘Actually she is more than nice.’
‘I’m coming with you to work tomo…’ She was interrupted by the beep of her phone.
She looked at the number which wasn’t registered.
‘Tom, can you answer this call for me.’ She handed over the phone to him which he was gestured asking why but Grissel had already hit the answer button so he had to speak.
‘Hello, Tom here.’
The line dropped before he could say another word.
‘That’s weird. The caller hanged up.’
‘Exactly, this is the fifth time since last week.’
‘Wait, why didn’t you tell me about it?’
‘I figured it would stop and you were not exactly cool about Henry stalking me when I told you everything.’
‘When something like this happens to you, talk to me Grissel. I don’t want to yell so you tell me I’m becoming like my Dad.’
‘I’m sorry.’
‘You are so used to keeping things to yourself even when you clearly need help. And may I remind you, you nearly died keeping secrets under my watch.’
‘I said I’m sorry.’
‘As usual, sorry fixes everything for you. Remind me to let Mike look into the name registered with that number for you.’
‘I will contact Mike myself. Thank you.’ She swayed the phone around.
‘I’m going to take my shower now. Are you coming with me?’
‘Later.’ She sat back on the couch while Tom went upstairs.
Mike works with the network provider that both Grissel and Tom patronize so it’s always easy setting up things with his help. Grissel that evening knew she didn’t need Mike’s help to figure out the number as she wasn’t ready to open up old wounds.
But she had to contact Mike so there wouldn’t be a problem between her and Tom. Grissel succeeded in sending the message to Mike and rushed upstairs.
*****
Tom and Stella has been getting along lately. They sometimes have drinks together Friday nights instead of his friends.
They were at the Seattle bar when Stella received a call. She excused herself and left.
‘Tom, what are you doing?’ Austin frowned.
‘I’m doing nothing.’
‘Austin is just trying to ask you what you are doing with Stella.’ Mike clarified.
‘She’s my boss and I brought her for a drink.’
‘Who takes their bosses out man? Especially at this time of the night.’ Austin questioned.
‘Are you insinuating something?’ Tom raised his voice this time.
‘You can’t see the picture on the wall clearly. Dude she’s falling for you.’ Clive chipped in.
‘She’s aware I have a wife.’
‘Has that ever stopped her kind?’ Austin jeered.
‘Look, I didn’t come here to have arguments like the last time.’ Tom whispered.
‘Mike and Clive, why are you two quiet. Tell your guy here something.’ Austin pushed.
‘I would better not assume. Tom is a big guy, I’m sure he knows what he’s doing.’ Mike watched him closely while talking.
‘Thank you Mike, I don’t know what gets into Austin anytime Grissel becomes the topic.’
‘Just looking out for a friend which you never brought to have drinks with us but here we are with your boss who seems to have feelings for you.’
‘But what is so wrong if Tom decides to meet other ladies after work.’ Clive the insensitive one asked.
‘Everything is wrong Clive. Why is he married then?’
‘Austin, do you like my wife?’ Tom’s next question brought silence to the whole place until Stella got back.
‘Hello, are you guys in a trance or something.’
Mike was the first to speak up while the rest directed their gaze to Austin’s direction.
‘My friend Austin here just confessed he likes you so much Stella.’ Tom teased and picked his next bottle.
Stella glanced at all the guys at the table and feigned a smile.
‘Thank you Austin, but Tom I have to get going. My Dad wants me home.’
‘You didn’t tell him, you are with me.’
She got closer to his ears. ‘That’s the problem.’
‘Okay, let me just finish this and drop you home.’
‘I can go with a cab, it’s a long drive.’
‘I insist Stella. Remember I asked you to let your driver go home so I could drive you after here.’
‘But you were always in a rush to see your wife every day after wok. Won’t there be problems.’
All eyes fell on her instantly.
‘She understands Fridays are not for her but for my friends. So relax, if you don’t want to go with me, Austin here can drive you since he’s going your way.’
‘Tom, you know I always hit the last bottle before I leave.’ Austin declined with a scowl.
‘You are stuck with me now Stella.’
She looked around and her eyes fell on Clive who signaled her to go.
‘Okay let’s go already. Hope you are not that drunk.’
‘No, I took just two bottles.’
‘Three.’ Mike and Clive chorused.
He shoved them an eye and picked up his phone and keys rushing after Stella who was waving the guys.
‘Hey dude, Catch.’ Clive threw him a small pack of condom he pulled out from his shirt pocket earlier.
Tom quickly grabbed and shook his head while Mike waved smiling. Stella was already out of sight.
‘I don’t need this so Austin can go blabbing to my wife.’
‘Man, I told you I’m not a snitch. Do whatever you want to because I’m done talking about Grissel.’
‘Come on, it’s just a joke Austin.’ He said placing the condom in his jacket pocket and gave them three a handshake before leaving.
*****
Dane has been in Seattle for a while now.
He packed in front of the shop Paige and Melisa were meeting as she picked her and the kids up for a shopping treat.
‘So what’s with you and Bryan.’
‘We had a drink the last time you stylishly left me with him alone.’
‘I’m sorry, I told you I had to pick up this young ones.’ Paige pointed to Shirley and her brother who were busy checking out toys in the shop.
‘I believe you now but how are you able to raise all two kids by yourself.’
‘It hasn’t been easy but they are helpful sometimes.’
‘So their mom never comes around.’ Melisa kept asking as they moved from one shelf to another.
‘They both vanished. I think my brother just had bad luck with those women.
‘That’s so sad but he didn’t tell you the truth about why they left.’
‘Enough about my kids, you still haven’t heard from your guy.’
‘I’m done with him. I told you he’s been stalking me all this time that he refused to call.’
‘That’s very weird.’
‘He is weird, but I love him and his little girl.’
‘Yeah you told me, you were hoping to give her all your best.’
‘It’s all over now. I’m back to being single and I must as well be with Henry.’
‘You do know Henry is just using you to get to Grissel right.’
‘I know and I don’t really care. Grissel won’t give in that easily that I’m sure of now so I’m just having fun.’
‘Just make sure you don’t end up falling for him.’
‘I know that so well. I told you about Dane’s no sex rule too.’
‘That is creepy too for a man like him who has been married before and with a child. Are you sure he’s not into cults.’
Melisa laughed so loud drawing the attention of the other shoppers. ‘No, he’s not. I think he just wants to give his wife that respect until we are married.’
‘His dead wife Mel.’
‘Yeah, he never talked about her again since the last time I asked and it made me wonder if he was still holding on to her.’
‘Girl if you ask me, you are in for a lot of trouble. Just take care of your heart.’
‘Thank you but it’s over now so I get to move on.’
‘I can introduce you to some other guys, even Bryan might be interested in you.’
‘Not now, let’s get going before we waste the whole day in here.’
They went for the kids who bought a whole lot of toys and joined the queue to pay.
‘Lisa right?’ The attendant asked.
‘Yes, that’s me. Did our kids destroy something or my bank card isn’t working.’ She asked hurriedly as she already gave her the card earlier after she had checked their items.
‘Far from that. Your items have been paid for and you just need to take your change.’
‘Paid for by whom?’ She asked with a confused expression when her eyes fell on Dane leaving the shop. She kept staring at him.
‘Paige, take the stuff and meet me up front.’ She dropped her hand bag and rushed after him but he got into his car and drove off before she got out.
She stood at the entrance waiting for Paige.
‘What was that all about?’ She tapped asking her.
‘That weirdo just paid and after spotting him, he drove off.’
‘You mean Dane the white guy.’ She asked sarcastically because Melisa mostly refer to him that way.
She nodded.
‘Lisa, something is off with this guy.’
‘I know Paige, he started this stalking since the day I kind of told him I wasn’t ready for marriage.’
‘Do you need help?’
‘No, I can handle him. Let’s go now, I will drop you guys home.’
They packed the items in the booth of the car and drove off.
‘By the way, I went back to get that shoe for the two of us. The change was enough to get three and I got a dress for our outing next week.’
Melisa shoved her an ugly stare.
‘You didn’t even know where the money came from but you bought shoes.’
‘I thought from your Dad.’
‘Well you thought wrong Paige.’
She didn’t realize Melisa was pissed off.
‘I got the matching bags too for…..’
‘Paige, enough of I got this and I got that.’
‘Sorry.’ She looked out to check on the kids at the back who had already eaten a bar of the chocolate. Paige flashed them a smile.
Melisa watched them from the front mirror and smooched Paige’s thigh.
‘Is that your way of saying I’m sorry for bashing you earlier?’
‘Yeah, but I didn’t bash you.’
‘At least, you fulfilled your promise of taking me out for a treat.’ Paige announced.
They both ended up laughing while driving home.
Blemished Love Episode 17- Loudest Thoughts
‘Austin, you asked me here and yet haven’t said anything yet.’
‘I want to ask you something.’
‘Okay, does your sister want to make a change to the custody schedules?’
‘No, your work is just perfect, I just wanted us to talk over a drink.’
She sighed and picked up her glass of juice. ‘You scared me when you said you want us to talk.’
‘It’s just our usual chit chat.’ He clarified.
‘I’m sorry I haven’t made time for us lately but you know the early stages in marriage can make you lose friends.’
‘Don’t worry I’m not complaining. I know the kind of man you married.’
She laughed. ‘I always forget you know him more than I do.’
‘How’s he doing with marriage?’
Grissel looked at his face and knew anytime Austin has something important to ask he beats about the real story.
‘Austin, just ask already.’
‘I don’t want to be meddling in your marriage but are you happy with my friend.’
‘Are you happy you introduced us?’ She shot back.
‘Of course, I am.’ He replied scratching his head.
‘There you have your answer.’
‘So you are happy. He’s treating you right.’
‘I’m okay dear friend. You don’t need to give me a questionnaire to fill anytime you and Tom happen to argue.’
‘He told you about the drink up fight?’
‘Ahaaa that should tell you he would never treat me contrary to what you told him the first time you introduced us.’
He managed a sigh. ‘Great, so how’s work.’
‘I just started this week and I’m hoping to blend in soon. Andre isn’t around so I’m doing all his paper works.’
‘I’m happy you could put all that behind you and move on.’
‘I have Tom and he makes it easy.’
‘Let me get us some food then.’ He changed the topic and stood up heading to the waiter.
Grissel called up Tom quickly.
‘Mission accomplished but you still owe me a day out at the beach.’ She quickly hanged up and smiled to Austin who was walking back to the table.
Tom had told Grissel about what happened at their drink up party without leaving anything out when she found the pack of condom in his jacket. He knew Austin was just looking out for her but he wasn’t comfortable being questioned so Grissel offered to talk to him.
*****
Tom promised Julia a spa treatment so he took her out that Saturday and decided to grab an ice cream at a nearby ice cream joint since Grissel had insisted on going out with him that day.
Grissel and ice-creams were like twins. He had no other choice than to get her a big bowl of that.
‘Get an extra three. Vanilla for the house, strawberry for Julia and Chocolate for Lisa. You know her birthday is few weeks away.’
Tom gave her a look signaled to the waiter.
‘This is the part of the marriage after my heart.’ She smiled and got a smack on her back.
They were pretty much engrossed in their chats that they didn’t notice Stella walking in.
She walked up to them. Grissel had her head on Tom’s shoulders and he was the first to see Stella standing in front of them.
‘Hey, you patronize this place too.’ Tom asked cheerfully.
Grissel raised up her head and her eyes met with Stella who was smiling broadly.
‘Hello,’ Stella muttered.
‘Hi,’ Grissel responded weakly.
‘This must be your better half Mr. Addi….., I mean Tom.
Stella suddenly remembered he hates to be called Mr. Addison.
‘Yeah, my wife Grissel.’
‘She’s a beauty.’ Stella suddenly said while Tom was not done introducing them.
‘You can say that again.’ Tom muttered.
Grissel was just quiet watching them obviously jealous.
‘Seems like she’s not a great talker too.’
‘She can talk for the whole world.’ Tom replied grinning at Grissel.’
‘Sorry, I’m just a little under the weather today.’ Grissel apologized and Tom thought it was weird as she was laughing earlier.
Stella smiled proudly.
‘Why don’t you join us, we can have a couple of drinks together, that way my wife could get to know you.’ Tom chipped in.
‘I was on my way out of here.’
‘Oh too bad.’ He said.
‘Maybe I could spare five minutes of my time.’ She said checking her time and grabbing a seat.
‘Awesome, at least my wife could get to know my boss and not worry when I come home late.’ He smiled mischievously.
‘Is she the one you told me about?’ Grissel finally found her voice probably surprised because they both hardly talk about their works.
‘Yes, my boss Stella Medt.’ he replied.
‘I can see someone has been talking about me.’ Stella chipped in watching Grissel closely.
‘Not really, just our first day encounter.’
‘Aww, I’m shy already. Once again I’m sorry we started on the wrong foot.’ Stella apologized.
‘That’s okay we are good now.’
‘Definitely,’ Stella shot back smiling.
Grissel was watching her and could count the number of times she has smiled already.
Just then Tom’s phone rang.
‘I have to take this call. I will be right back.’
‘Okay Love,’ she responded smiling at Tom who has left the table.
She kept her eyes at the direction he went until Stella’s voice jerked her out of her reverie.
‘Hi,’ Stella whispered.
‘Hello,’ she found the need to reply her. Grissel’s voice was weak and her face turned pale all of a sudden.
“I miss you.” Stella muttered once Tom was out of sight.
Grissel nodded fighting the urge to talk further as she was pushing back her tears every second.
‘So you moved on.’ Stella asked again.
Grissel just kept staring at her.
‘It’s good to know you were not holding on.’
Grissel glared at her now and Stella got the message.
‘And you married an awesome man.’ Stella said relaxing against the chair now while looking around to check where Tom vanished to.
Grissel wiped a tear when Stella was not looking.
“Thank you Ella.” She finally sighed.
Stella probably understood why Grissel was thanking her so she smiled.
‘I’m glad I could be of help.’
Grissel nodded quietly. ‘Medt’s?’
‘Emmm that was the only thing I never told you.’ Stella muttered.
‘And my husband is off li…’ She was cut off.
‘Off limits, I get it Grissel and sorry for crushing on him.’
‘Good, just stay off.’ Grissel warned firmly.
They were both staring at each other without blinking.
You two seems to be an inseparable pair.’ Stella held her hand which she quickly pulled out of her grasp.
‘Don’t’ touch me and stop talking about my husband.’ Grissel said carefully.
‘You love him that much?’ Stella smiled.
‘Love who?’ Tom appeared beside Grissel.
‘You, my love.’ Grissel flirted.
She squeezed his hands romantically and kissed him on the lips quickly.
Stella shook her head smiling.
Tom glanced at his wife weirdly. Grissel was not the public romance type of woman but something was off with her.
He smiled to her and noticed Stella was still smiling.
‘Why are you smiling?’ She asked her.
‘Been a while since I saw two people so much in love like you two here.’ Stella muttered with so much humor.
‘I know right. My wife is just all over me.’ He teased.
‘I can see that. Though I’m dying to know how this love story started, I got to hit the road.’ Stella smiled glancing at Grissel who seem not to be paying attention.
‘Okay sure.’ Tom replied.
‘Grissel right?’
She nodded.
‘Nice meeting you and hope we can catch up again.
‘Yeah.’ She responded and Stella picked up her bag, smiling cheerfully, waved them and walked out.
They didn’t realize when she came back to their table.
‘And Tom, trust me. You married a good one, I hope you don’t ever let her go.’
Grissel glared at Tom who had a confused grin on.
‘Thank you Stella, but you just came back to say that and you are over smiling too.’
‘I couldn’t leave without letting you know. I got to go now.’ She rushed off in a hurry.
Tom watched her leave and turned to Grissel.
‘That was weird?’
‘What was weird?’ She asked.
‘Stella’s speech and she kept smiling throughout.’
‘Yeah, she loves to smile a lot. I guess something’s never change.’
‘What was that?’ Tom queried.
‘I mean she’s a natural.’
‘Yeah, can we get going now?’
‘I want to take a walk with you along the road Tom.’
‘We can do that next weekend Grissel. Right now, we have to pick up Julia.’
‘I almost forgot. Let’s get going.’ Grissel stood up and saw Stella’s car speeding off upon seeing her.
‘Your ice cream please.’ The waiter rushed to meet them with the package and Tom paid.
***
‘Dad, Mom?’ Stella stormed into the house after she drove on top speed nearly hitting a pole.
She slumped onto the couch sweating and was about to leave while dropping her bag abruptly when her parents came in.
‘What’s going on with you?’
‘Dad, i thought you attended Tom’s wedding.’
‘Tom again?’ He hit his fist gently on his thigh. ‘Stella he is married to a good woman and I don’t want you screwing that up for him.’ Her Dad cautioned.
Stella’s Dad overheard her talking over the phone about how she was having a crush on Tom. He was hoping it would last for just a while knowing her daughter very well.
‘This is not about Tom Dad.’ She glanced at them intently.
‘Then what is it about.’
‘You didn’t notice anything off about Tom’s wife?’
‘Why is she sick?’ Her mom who was confused all this while asked.
‘Come off it you two. At least give me a heads up about the fact that he married my Grissel.’
‘Who is your Grissel?’ Both husband and wife chorused.
‘Gosh, you two are dramatic right now.’ She yelled and rushed up stairs.
Her parents just stared confusedly. The look on their face shows they had no idea what their daughter was referring to.
*****
‘Tom, is that not your wife lurking around?’ Mike asked pointing to Grissel’s direction.
Grissel decided to surprise Tom at his Friday hang out. She knew he wouldn’t like her being there but she was bored at home and needed some company.
‘Wow!’ Tom exclaimed.
‘What?’ Austin asked and Tom kept hiding his face behind Stella.
‘She’s beautiful.’ Clive responded.
‘But is this your first time of seeing her that beautiful?’ Mike asked while Tom kept burying his face.
‘No, but I think Tom must have done something to her after marriage.’
Tom glared at him now and he kept quiet.
Grissel was clad in the pink short blouse Tom got for her a few weeks ago when they had a fight and he needed to apologize. With her hair dangling on her shoulder, she kept searching with her pretty face without make up.
‘I think you should wave at her.’ Stella announced.
‘I didn’t invite her to come for our night out.’
‘She’s probably just bored at home.’ She smiled.
‘But it’s a boy’s night out.’ Tom cautioned.
‘Really? What is Stella doing here then?’ Austin chipped in.
‘Thank you Austin.’ She said and waved up to Grissel who finally looked in their direction.
She smiled and walked up to them hurriedly.
Stella offered her seat next to Tom and moved to the next one.
She greeted them and reached out for a beer from the crate when Tom held her hand.
‘Barman, one coke for the lady.’ Tom called the bar man’s attention.
They all glanced at each other and were holding their laughter back.
Clive on the other hand kept winking at her which was unusual.
Her coke came and he handed it over to her. ‘Christian’s don’t drink beer.’
Stella laughed first and they all burst out hilariously.
‘Tom, just let her have fun for tonight.’ Austin interrupted.
Grissel though was embarrassed she joined in the laughter.
‘No, she always preach to me about Christian’s and beer. Today is her turn to apply the Bible.’
Grissel gave her a smack. ‘No chicken for you for a month.’
“Come on, I did the right thing.”
‘I’m also doing the right thing.’ She replied him honestly.
‘You are beautiful Grissel.’ Clive suddenly chipped in.
Tom gave him the look that was capable of murdering him without a weapon.
‘Relax, Mr. Husband. I just taught you what you forgot to do when she arrived here.’ Clive clarified.
‘Grissel already knew she’s the prettiest of all the ladies around me. No offence Stella.’ He flattered and rubbed her back.
Clive hissed, then stood up excusing himself and headed towards the washroom.
Grissel sipped her Coke with the straw while the rest gulped their beer.
She felt a tap on her thighs and turned around. She forgot Stella was in their midst.
‘Be careful with Clive.’ She whispered quietly into her ears.
She glanced at Clive walking towards them smiling at her and nodded to Stella.
‘You still care about me after all these years.’ Grissel said quietly to her as the others were focused on their usual argument.
‘Of course Grissel. I shouldn’t have left you alone that night. I’m really sorry.’
‘Don’t you think it’s too late for that Stella? ’ Grissel said silently and suddenly clutched on Tom’s other arm ignoring Stella’s taps.
This was the first time they were talking after their first accidental meet up a week ago.
After a few chitchats, they announced their leave so Grissel and Tom could have the night to themselves.
*****
‘Lisa?’
‘Yes.’ She stood at her office door smiling weirdly at her sister in law.
Grissel kept staring as she wasn’t expecting her to come there.
‘Should I come in?’ Melisa asked as she seemed to be in a trance.
‘Sure.’ She responded quickly opening her door widely for her whiles rushing to fix the chair in it’s position.
Melisa watched her walk to the fridge and stood there.
‘Grissel? Water.’ She said to remind her why she went to the fridge in the first place.
Since that night in the hospital, she hasn’t seen Grissel up close. Melisa walked up to her at the fridge and gave her a surprise hug.
‘I’m so sorry Lisa.’
‘It’s okay Grissel. I’m not here to make you feel undeserving.’
‘You are not?’ Grissel came out of her arms quickly.
‘Yes, I just came to check on you and I didn’t want Tom to start asking questions.’
‘Thank you Lisa,’ she fidgeted with her hands.
‘Come and have a seat. We need to talk about Henry.’
Grissel looked up at her when she mentioned Henry.
‘I haven’t done anything with him.’ She said in a hurry.
‘I know Grissel. What should we do about him?’
‘We?’
‘Yes, he’s obsessed with you.’
‘But you are the one sleeping with him Lisa.’
Melisa watched how her hands flung to her mouth immediately after her words.
‘‘That hurts Grissel.’’
‘Sorry but what I meant was he’s your responsibility not mine.’
‘Henry was a good friend until he met you at my house the night Tom brought you home.’
‘Good man? The guy has psychological problems Lisa.’
‘You think so?
‘You tell me, besides you are the doctor here.’
Melisa stared at her for about a minute. ‘Emmm, I would recommend someone for him if you think he needs help.
‘Any plans for your birthday tomorrow?’ Grissel thought to change the topic.
‘No, I have a work trip in the morning.’
‘Too bad, maybe you can celebrate with Tom next two weeks.’
‘Tom do……’
‘I would talk to your brother.’
‘Good luck.’ She teased with a funny smile.
They had a few more talks before she asked to leave.
*****
‘I have two weeks conference in New Jersey. Would you be okay home alone? Tom asked Grissel who was
‘I will miss you Tom.’ She sounded not surprised while focused on her packing.
‘Do you want to come with me?’
‘That’s a bad idea Tom besides you have company.’
‘Stella?’
‘Yes, isn’t she going with you?’
‘She is but I wished you would come with us. Stella really likes you.’
‘Really?’ What did she say?’
‘Nothing important but tell me why you are packing your stuff into a travelling bag again.’
‘Oh those are for the laundry.’ She pointed to the bag reluctantly.
‘Are you sure? Because it seems to me as someone who plans to leave her matrimonial home.’
‘You think too much Tom.’ A sad grin appeared on her cheeks.
‘Okay, just leave that and come to bed already.’ He wore a confused grin this time.
She hesitated for a while and dropped the bag she was holding.
‘Give me just a minute.’ She rushed into the washroom and washed her face with water which was already drenched in tears.
Tom hadn’t noticed she was crying earlier while packing.
‘Is everything alright with you?’ He queried when she came out.
‘Of course. I wanted to ask if Stella has told you anything recently.’
‘Was she supposed to tell me something?’
‘No, it’s just that you spend so much time with her lately.’
‘Do you want me to stop?’
‘No, besides I trust you and somehow I know she’s harmless too.’
‘Great, she has even agreed to go on a date with Clive.’
‘Clive? Ella is too good for him.’
‘But you barely know Stella so how do you know she’s too good for Clive.’ Tom has gotten used to her wife calling her boss Ella even though he wasn’t so sure how she quickly formulated that name.
‘You talk about her all the time Tom. I would prefer you introduce her to Austin.’
‘Austin said he wasn’t interested.’
‘I will talk to him, just don’t let Clive have his way yet.’ She adjusted her pillow.
Grissel was sounding over protective and Tom was beginning to sense she wasn’t happy about his trip so before they slept that night, he called Stella to cancel but she claimed they may not find a replacement before due the time.
He stared at his wife sleeping quietly on the bed. Tom gave her a kiss and a cuddle.
*****
Grissel bid her husband goodbye after dropping him at the airport.
Stella kept watching them weirdly until she drove off.
‘Do you need to go back?’
‘No, she will be fine.’
‘I don’t think so Tom. She’s acting as if you will never return.’
‘You noticed that too?’
‘Of course Tom. Anybody can read her expressions so I would understand if you have to go back.’
‘I thought I was the only one who felt she was acting weird from last night but she will be fine.’
‘I hope she’s not upset I’m going with you.’
‘No, she doesn’t care who I go with because I asked her to come with me and she said she was okay I’m going with you.’
‘She did?’
‘Ahaaa!’
‘I guess she trust you too much.’ Stella teased.
‘I’m not that bad Stella.’
‘I know that, why do you think I love you th…’
She was saying and paused when she realized Tom was staring right into her eyes.
‘You love me?’
‘Yes, but not that kind of love.’
‘You don’t need to explain Stella, I always knew that was the reason you changed after I confronted you that day in the office.’
‘And ooh that wasn’t my fault. I was made to believe you swindled someone.’
‘Me? Swindle? Where did you get that from?’
‘Just an old fling called Henry.’
‘Henry the bas***d?’
‘bas***d? Well I guess whatever he did to you, he sure deserves that name.’
‘Yeah, he was stalking my wife and caused that accident?’
‘I’m sorry, he wasn’t ready to tell me why I should strip you off your position so I told him to face you himself.’
‘That’s alright.’
They were sitting in the waiting area facing each other. Stella had her hands supporting her jaw.
Tom pulled her hands from the jaw. ‘So you were sleeping with him or dating him.’
‘Do you have to ask that?’
‘Not really but if he’s sleeping with my sister and my boss friend I guess I have to know.’
‘Your sister?’ Stella sounded surprised.
‘Melisa. We don’t get along so I probably didn’t mention her to you.’
‘Melisa, sounds familiar.’
‘Maybe Henry mentioned her. They were pretty much close.’
‘Yeah I’m sure,’ She feigned a smile. ‘But with Henry, if you should know it was just friends with benefit. I met him in Mexico while on tour.’
‘I guess he brought you here to take over after finding out I work with your dad.’
‘You are smart Tom. I didn’t want to come back but he was persistent and my dad listens to him so I obliged.’
They were still talking when their flight number was called.
‘I guess that’s our ride.’ She said and got lost in her thoughts.
‘Yeah, let’s get going before we miss our flight.’ Tom interrupted her thoughts.
‘Sure.’ She dragged her luggage as Tom quickly offered to help.
‘Hey, I forgot to mention you look stunning today.’ He flattered.
‘You forgot?’
‘Busted. I didn’t want to disrespect my wife as she was with us.’
‘I understand and thank you.’ She flashed him a smile and he smiled back.
To be continued
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