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A Different Kind
Of Love
A Novel By
Nanette M. Buchanan
Smashwords Edition
Copyright © 2011 by Nanette M. Buchanan
Smashwords Edition License Notes
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The Sequel to
Family…Secrets, Lies & Alibis
Acknowledgement
I would like to thank all of my family, friends and readers who supported and continue to support the success of “Family…Secrets, Lies and Alibis.” I hope you enjoy “A Different Kind of Love” as the saga continues. You will never know how your support encouraged the publishing of both novels. To my husband James, your understanding is beyond what I could ever expect. We made it through this trying year on the wings of angels and God’s mercy. Together we will continue to grow strong. To my children Tynicia, Katia, and Aaron life continues to be a blessing with the three of you in my corner. To Terry Smith, your work adds to this piece in more ways than you’ll ever know. I thank you. Thank you all for your constant encouragement. It is a blessing to be at this point in my writing. I again ask you to travel with me as “I Pen”.
Forward
The thought of family has been on my mind since my childhood. I knew that I had two brothers, one older, one younger; sons that my father never thought to introduce to me. Their existence was acknowledged by my mother in conversations regarding family lineage.
These conversations often reminded me that I knew little of the life my father lived. I had the honor of meeting this man at the age of seventeen. I often wondered how my childhood would have differed had I known them. I never thought much about looking for them as an adult, nor did I stay in contact with my father. Since then I have had occasional thoughts about where they may be, whom did they marry, and do I have any nieces or nephews. Have our paths crossed without the knowledge of our connection? Will we ever meet?
My first novel “Family…Secrets, Lies and Alibis”, sets the stage for the sequel “A Different Kind of Love”. The characters, though fictional, can be anyone who is unaware of their family lineage. One may be able to cover the secrets, lies, and excuses for siblings not knowing each other, but what happens if they meet and unaware of their family ties, they fall in love? Is it easy to put that love aside and begin over as sister and brother? How do they cover feelings that they have grown to depend on?
This story is fictional.
But could it be one that has been told?
The secrets continue………
Chapter 1
Mitch packed his briefcase with contracts he had to read before the next morning. He had a full day and taking work home had become somewhat of a habit. It filled in his time when he didn’t have evening plans with his new love interest Marci. He hadn’t heard from Marci much during the day, and he thought it was strange. He was falling in love with her. It had been four months since they got together. He planned on asking for her hand in marriage during the Christmas holidays. Darlene, Marci’s mother, told Mitch she couldn’t wait for them to be married because Marci only talked of him and the things they did together. He was ready for the commitment. He hadn’t told anyone yet of his intentions, and he decided he would spring it on Byron and ‘Rell while they were at the sports bar on the upcoming weekend. Football season had started and they had a date every other Sunday at the sports bar. The alternate Sundays they spent entertaining the females in their life. Byron was dating Tracey, a young lady who worked as a paralegal for Mr. Simpson, the lawyer for DQ Enterprises while ‘Rell’s relationship with Shai was still a secret to all except Mitch and Marci.
Mitch passed ‘Rell's office and wondered what was going on. ‘Rell never left early. He waited until he got to his car and called ‘Rell’s cell phone.
“What’s up Rell? You never leave early.”
“I left today to get my mother some flowers. It’s her birthday tomorrow and she already said she would be going out of town so I took off to spend some time with her. Is everything okay with you?”
“Yeah, have you heard from Shai or Marci today?”
“They’re spending our money man. They went to the spa. Shai passed some exam that had her stressed out, and she’s celebrating. I don’t think Marci even knew she was coming by to get her. Call her on her cell man. You missing her like that?”
“Man, don’t start? You can’t talk. If Shai didn’t call you, ‘Rell, you know you would break down.”
“It’s a different kind of love man. We’ve been dealing with each other for almost three years. Well, I guess we can’t count the first two.”
“Yeah, you can’t count long distance phone calls. Anyway, I’ll call her now. Thanks man.”
Mitch looked at his phone. “Why didn’t she call?”
Mitch’s phone rang.
“Hello.”
“Mitch? Hey baby. I know you guess I lost my mind.”
“No, you made me lose my mind. I just wanted to know you were alright.”
“I’ll meet you at your place. This spa is closer to you. Shai drove so she’ll drop me off at your house.”
“Do you want me to pick anything up for dinner?”
“Okay, umm, pick up some Chinese food. You know what to get right?”
“Yeah, baby I know. Marci, call me if you’re going to be later than you think. Those roads to the house get dark.”
“I will. Love you.”
“Love you too.”
Marci went back to the room where she and Shai were waiting to get a manicure and pedicure. She noticed Shai holding her head.
“Hey, what’s wrong girl?”
“I think that sauna heat got to me. I feel dizzy. My head is heavy.”
“You probably need some air. We’re not next. We can step out into the other room. I’ll tell the girl where we’ll be.”
“Thanks.” Shai had been feeling bad the past few days.
It was a weird sick feeling; she didn’t know what it was. Marci came back and sat near her.
“You look sick. Shai are you alright?”
“Girl, I feel like, damn, I feel sick.”
“Maybe you got a touch of the flu.”
“I’m going to the doctor’s office tomorrow.”
“We can skip the pedicure and the manicure. Let me tell her you’re not feeling well.”
“Get a refund, I paid for everything already.”
Marci got the reimbursement and told Shai they would reschedule. She walked her to the car and told Shai to give her the keys.
“I’ll drive you home and tell Mitch to pick me up at your house. Do you want me to call ‘Rell for you?”
Marci helped Shai into the car. Shai let the seat back and closed her eyes. “No, don’t call him Marci. He’s going to his mother’s today. Her birthday is tomorrow and she is leaving town for the weekend.”
Marci drove while Shai tried to drift off into sleep. They pulled in her driveway twenty minutes later. Marci tapped Shai and they both got out the car.
“Do you feel better? Maybe you need some Ginger Ale to settle your stomach.”
“I have some in the house, ‘Rell usually drinks that. Marci, this is the strangest feeling. I don’t think it’s a cold.”
Marci’s phone rang. “Hello.”
“Marci, are you still at the spa?”
“No, as a matter of a fact, I was going to call you. Can you pick me up at Shai’s?” Marci replied; glad Mitch called again.
“Well, it will be after seven. I have to stop at ‘Rell’s mom’s house. He has a file I need.”
“That’s okay Shai doesn’t feel well so we left the spa.”
“What’s wrong with her?”
“I don’t know. She’s going to take something for her head and stomach and lay down.”
“Alright, I’ll pick you up after I leave there.”
“See you then.”
Marci went into the house with Shai. She offered to make her a cup of tea. Shai told her she would try the tea instead of the ginger ale. When Marci returned to Shai, she had laid down on the couch. She was sleep. Marci turned on the television and waited for Mitch.
Chapter 2
“Ms. Mince, please follow me.” Shai got up from her seat in the waiting room and followed the nurse.
“The doctor will be in to see you. Please take off your clothes and put on the gown on the table. There’s a cup there for your urine sample. When you’re done, place the cup through that little window on the right side of the counter.”
“Thank you.”
Shai hadn’t told ‘Rell she was going to the doctor. She made the appointment after she had missed her period twice. She was too scared to take the EPT at home. If she was pregnant she wanted to know how far along she was. Shai went into the bathroom and followed the nurse’s instructions. ‘Rell walked into Mitch’s office laughing with Byron.
“Man, Mitch didn’t even give us a chance to change our mind. He just said he had things to do. We knew Marci had him under her control.”
Mitch started smiling. He was sitting behind his desk. He looked up.
“Y’all got jokes. I miss one Sunday and you jump right on it. Marci had made plans that I didn’t know about. It happens.”
“She got you man.”
“Byron, who got who?”
“Man that’s ‘Rell talking. You didn’t hear me saying a word. I know I get caught up sometime. So I know the feeling.”
“Oh, Byron, you taking sides?”
“No, man, I’m just saying I get caught doing things at the last minute. Wait ‘Rell you do too.”
“Not lately man. I haven’t missed any of our outings.”
“No, ‘Rell, it works fine for you. You set the dates.”
They all laughed. The intercom caused them to be silenced.
“Yes, Ms. Berry.”
“I’m looking for Mr. Mince.”
“Yes, Ms. Berry, I’m here. What’s up?”
“You have a phone call. Ms. Mince says it’s urgent?”
“Transfer the call here please.”
“Rell?”
“Shai, what’s up?”
“Call me on your cell please.”
“Alright, are you on your cell?”
“Yes, please call me right back.”
“Okay. Hang up the line.”
“What’s wrong ‘Rell?” Mitch was concerned. Marci told Mitch Shai wasn’t feeling much better, and it had been three days.
“I’m not sure. Hello, Shai?”
“Rell what time are you getting off?”
“I can get off now. What’s the problem?”
“I’ll meet you at the house.”
“Mine or yours, Shai what is wrong?”
“Yours, I want to tell you then.”
‘Rell hung up the phone. “Mitch man I’ll call you guys back. I don’t know what’s wrong.”
‘Rell drove home thinking something had happened to Derek or Tonya. He couldn’t imagine what, just that something had happened to them. “Shai should have been at work. Maybe someone found out about us and she’s upset about it.”
Tonya had not been back to the office since her visit two weeks prior. Mitch told her the name of the holding company and escorted her to the front of the offices. Mr. Simpson told ‘Rell she should be calling him within a week to complain. “Maybe Tonya complained to Shai.”
‘Rell pulled into his driveway. Shai’s car was in the garage. He used that entrance to inspect her car, just in case she had been in an accident. Shai was sitting on the couch with tissue on the table and in her hand. When ‘Rell walked in the room she looked up at him, he could see her eyes were swollen, signs she had been crying a long time. Her eyes were bloodshot.
“Baby, what’s wrong?”
“Rell, I didn’t think this would happen. I don’t know what we’re going to do. Say you love me ‘Rell.
“Alright Shai, you’re making me mad now. You know I love you. What is wrong?”
“I went to the doctor today. I hadn’t been feeling well for about a week or two. I was sick in the stomach and dizzy and just sick.”
“What did the doctor say Shai?”
“I’m five months pregnant. I thought everything was fine. I’ve had my period.” Shai lied about the last two months. She thought if anything she would be three months pregnant, and she would have an abortion.
“Five months Shai? Your period came last month?”
“Yes, the doctor said that is possible. I had a little blood today. She said that is just because I am a little upset.”
“You should have told her you were a lot upset. We can’t have children Shai. How are we going to put this over on anyone? Damn, what about the baby? Will it be healthy?”
“Rell, there’s something else. She said I am fine and so are they.”
“They, they who?”
“They’re twins, ‘Rell. I’m pregnant with twins.”
“Shai, oh no, baby what did she say about an abortion? I mean you can’t want to go through this with their health being questionable.”
“Rell, she said I was too far along for it to be safe to have an abortion. It’s not safe for the babies or me.”
“What about their health Shai? You know they say they could be born with deformities or mental problems when siblings are the parents.”
Shai started crying again. ‘Rell was pacing the floor.
“Baby, how are we going to do this? My own kids are going to call me uncle ‘cause they can’t call me daddy?”
“Rell, do you love me?”
“Shai you know I love you. Loving you got us into this shit. But, yes baby, I love you.”
“I love you too. I love you and we’ll get through this.”
“Twins?”
“Twins.”
‘Rell sat next to Shai on the couch. He kissed her and pulled her into his chest as he sat back on the couch.
Chapter 3
Darrell didn’t sleep much and as the alarm rang, he knew he wouldn’t be in the office until after eleven. He sat staring at a picture of himself, Dershai, and Derek, taken shortly after their father’s death. They all agreed that the family should have a picture of the three of them together. ‘Rell let his mind drift thinking of his pre-set schedule for the day. No meetings, no urgent phone calls, nothing that couldn’t be delayed by a few hours. The clock sounded again as a reminder. ‘Rell turned it off. Although he had not slept much, ‘Rell couldn’t sleep now that the morning light had touched his face.
‘Rell and Shai talked until she fell asleep. He hoped she felt rested. Shai had a lecture to sit through that she couldn’t miss. They talked until two thirty. “Okay, it is what it is!” ‘Rell found that he used his aunt’s saying more and more lately. He picked up the phone to call his mother and hung it up shaking his head. “I can’t call her until I know what I’m going to say. I’ll call Mr. Simpson first. How did I get caught in this shit?”
As he got dressed, he lost himself in memories of the past three years. His father, D.Q., and his mother, Nikki, were inseparable, or so it seemed. Inseparable but not married, that’s where it all started. After ‘Rell overheard their argument about marriage, he moved to Maryland leaving them to their secrets and lies. ‘Rell was dating Monique then but Shai had all his attention. They met in a mall before his move to Maryland, and he stayed in touch, just in case he returned to Virginia single. They talked late many nights, sent missing you cards through e-mails. They never thought to delve into either of their families business. It was the next year when his life became a whirlwind. ‘Rell was named one of the top CPA’s in the state while working at Sheldon Finance. Derek Quincy Mince died in late May. That had been a little over five months ago now. It seemed like it was longer. Being with Shai helped the healing and the time was lived with a new love. ‘Rell couldn’t imagine living without her.
‘Rell received a letter from Mr. Simpson, his father’s lawyer and confidant. The letter declared Darrell as the executor of his father’s will. That’s’ when ‘Rell and Shai’s relationship changed from a distant friendship to the best love either of them knew. He called Shai, told her he would be in town for a while for family business. Although Shai said she had death in her family, they were not prepared for what was to happen next. They spent hours of getting acquainted both physically and mentally. There was one problem. Darrell Quincy Mince was the eldest child of Derek Quincy Mince and Dershai Quinelle Mince was his youngest child. They both neglected to ask the others last name fearing their father’s success would be to the other's advantage. Once they realized the other was financially independent it didn’t seem to matter what their last name was.
As the offspring of D.Q. Mince they both were at the reading of their father’s will. Marci, their first cousin and Mitchell, ‘Rell’s best friend and Mr. Simpson were the only people who knew they were seeing each other. They both advised ‘Rell and Shai they should end the relationship, but they were in love. They couldn’t just stop what took two years to develop. Besides they didn’t want to lose the love they found. They were truly in love. ‘Neither Rell nor Shai felt they were anything other than lovers. They hadn’t met as siblings. The relationship started as a friendship and had developed for two years before any physical contact.
Marci, Mitch and Mr. Simpson did agree, ‘Rell and Shai were in love. The relationship continued, as a secret. Dershai moved from her condo that she shared with their other brother Derek to avoid the questions about ‘Rell’s frequent visits.
D.Q. spent a lifetime building D.Q. Enterprises. ‘Rell acquired D.Q. Enterprises, a financial corporation with large profits in real estate and investments. D.Q. left his secrets untold, and as they unraveled, Darrell’s life was becoming more complicated. Mr. Simpson applauded ‘Rell as he handled each situation, as though they were of no surprise. He now knew why his mother and father were not married. D.Q. had been married for thirty years to Tonya, Dershai and Derek’s mother. D.Q. told Nikki about Tonya but never mentioned his children. Tonya knew that D.Q. had an outside family but accepted his discretions thinking she would be rewarded eventually through their divorce or his death. Now that D.Q. was dead, she was furious with the world because she wasn’t bequeathed anything. The stocks she owned were sold as D.Q’s revenge from his grave. She was no longer connected to D.Q. Enterprises, and she continuously looked for ways to reestablish her ground.
D.Q.’s brother, Darryl and D.Q’s son, Derek shared the bad habit of gambling. Darryl had a construction company and Derek had started his own web design company. ‘Rell took care to monitor their accounting business files without their knowledge. ‘Rell’s Aunt Darlene, his father’s sister, was becoming his favorite. She had qualities that reminded him of his father. Darrell told her he often wished they knew each other when he was younger, so she could have spoiled him. He smiled at his thought.
Shai was special, not because they were sister and brother, but because he loved her. He loved her more than anyone else he had ever loved. He loved her like his father expressed loving his mother. D.Q. died loving Nikki and expressed it on the taped recording of his will. That day ‘Rell died inside. Shai sat across the conference table at Mr. Simpson’s office and felt the same way. They were in love and had made love as lover’s do. They couldn’t accept being siblings. They continued to see each other as lovers secretly. They missed family dinners where Nana could look them over and catch their eyes staring at each other. Nana would often ask them if they were okay. They knew she suspected them, but they couldn’t and wouldn’t say it was so. Marci and Mitch kept their promise but warned them constantly.
“Well, Mitch, I guess I’ll call you first before Shai tells Marci and you call me.” ‘Rell picked up the phone and dialed Mitch on his cell.
“Hey man, what’s up?”
“Mitch, man, I won’t be in until after eleven. If you guys need me call the cell.”
“You do remember you are supposed to meet with Keith at ten this morning or am I telling him to call you later.”
Keith Larson was still working at Sheldon Finance. Mitchell Carter, Byron Washington, Craig Masters and Keith Larson were friends since college. They all worked at Sheldon Finance together. When D.Q. died, Mitch and Byron were offered a partnership in D.Q. Enterprises where ‘Rell was now the President and CEO. Craig was dating ‘Rell’s ex-girlfriend, while ‘Rell was deciding they couldn’t make the relationship work. He was also caught rolling over company accounts for personal gain. ‘Rell gave him the option of resigning before Sheldon’s management fired him.
‘Rell was warned by Mr. Simpson that the existing partners weren’t found of Craig or Keith. Keith had not shown his disloyalty but ‘Rell had learned to believe Mr. Simpson’s word. ‘Rell wasn’t sure he wanted to meet with Keith, but he had put off the appointment for weeks. Keith had called early the week before and Mr. Simpson gave him a nod of approval. Neither Keith nor ‘Rell mentioned partnership. Keith was looking forward to working with Byron, Mitch and ‘Rell again.
“I did forget about it, but it won’t be a problem. I can get to the office by ten.”
“What’s up, you sound out of it? Is Shai okay?”
The last Mitch heard Shai was under the doctor’s care. ‘Rell took the question as the opportunity to talk. He looked at the clock, which now read seven o’clock.
“Are you on your way to work or home?”
“What does that mean man? I go home at night? Mitch laughed. ‘Rell and Byron teased him about staying at Marci’s and never going home. ‘Rell didn’t laugh.
“I didn’t know which way you were going. I need to talk with you before you see Marci again.”
“Huh? I know there’s a reason for you saying that. I just don’t know if I’m going to like the reason.”
“No man, it has nothing to do with Marci. It’s about Shai. Well, it’s about both of us really. Well, all of us.”
“Rell, I’m on my way.”
The phone went silent. ‘Rell went into the kitchen and got a glass of orange juice. He decided to prepare Mr. Simpson. He had been a loyal friend of D.Q.’s and was becoming ‘Rell's right hand man, just like Alfred was to Bruce Wayne. Where would Batman be without Alfred? Stanley Simpson was an important part of the puzzle that connected ‘Rell and D.Q. ‘Rell knew there were more pieces, and now he had his own pieces to add. Rell decided to call his new confidant before Mitch arrived.
“Good Morning Stan.”
“Rell, good morning young man, you’re up early this morning. I thought you would be sleeping until eight or nine.”
“Excuse me?” ‘Rell often thought Mr. Simpson had his home bugged.
“Nothing, just teasing, my sources could be wrong.”
“Stan, let me find out you and your boys are snooping in my home.”
“I love keeping you on your toes young man. What can I do for you this morning?”
“Shai’s pregnant. Twins, the due date is July tenth. Probably before, I don’t think twins go full term.”
“Have you set a date to go through your father’s belongings?”
“Stan, did you hear me? Shai is pregnant. I don’t want to think about my dad’s things right now. How will we deal with this?”
“I heard you ‘Rell. Set a time and date to get to your dad’s belongings. Until then talk to no one about her pregnancy.”
‘Rell had learned in the past months that Mr. Simpson knew all of D.Q.’s secrets but refused to tell them before time. “What would be found in D.Q.’s belongings?
“Stan, I am exhausted. I didn’t get much sleep. Help me here. What is in my father’s belongings that could possibly add light to this situation? I know there’s a reason for you telling me to complete this task first.”
“There is. Did Mrs. Mince contact you?”
“Who?”, ‘Rell was getting agitated with Stan Simpson’s mind game, “Mrs. Mince?”
“Yes, Tonya Mince.”
“Oh Shai’s mom, no, should she be contacting me?”
“I would have thought she would have by now. Her past is catching up with her. I told her there were no funds or stock in her name through D.Q. Enterprises. She assumed there would be a quarterly report prepared for her.”
“I am really tired. I don’t understand what you’re talking about. Stan, don’t hold it against me, but my mind is on this family I am now responsible for, not Tonya Mince.”
“She will contact you. She feels you are weak or have some secret she can ruin you with. This pregnancy if not handled properly could be a piece of gold to her. She is desperate, always has been.”
“I can’t believe she would ruin her daughter. What does she want to gain?”
“Rell, she feels you stand in the way of a fortune, her fortune. Even if she has to go through her children, she wants a large part, if not all, of D.Q. Enterprises. She’ll use the pregnancy to her advantage. She may….well, I don’t want to speculate. Just know that she will contact you. Your defense is in your father’s belongings.”
“Stan it’s hard for me to believe she would use her daughter. It would kill Shai. She doesn’t care for her mother’s actions, but she still loves her mother. That would rip her apart.”
“Believe me, Tonya Mince loves no one. That includes Derek and Shai. She loves only herself. Enough talk about her. Talk to no one. I know Marci and Mitch will be told by Shai. You should make arrangements to go through your father’s belongings sometime this week if your schedule permits.”
“Okay, I’ll talk with Nana. I hope this is not as sticky as the reading of the will. My father, a real under cover man. Listen, I will be offering Keith a job. Are there any concerns?”
“No, Keith’s problem is his family. I think that’s why he wants to transfer. He was worried about his mother’s health. She is living with her sister now in Philadelphia.”
“You guys are amazing. What did you do, follow the man around? Never mind, I don’t want to know. Just remind me to stay on your good side.” ‘Rell laughed at the thought of men in black hiding in his bushes outside his home.
“It’s what you pay me for. Let me know how your meeting goes and when you will be dealing with your father’s belongings.”
“As usual I will contact you at some point today. Stan thanks.”
“My pleasure young man, actually your father paid for this part of my services before his death.”
“I guess he knew he was leaving a mess.”
“He knew you could handle it. Call your grandmother and take your time reading the materials you find.”
“Thanks Stan, I’ll talk with you later.”
‘Rell hung the phone up and sat at the kitchen table thinking about D.Q. giving Stan orders to complete upon his death.
“How could he know this would come up? Another piece to my father’s scrambled life revealed.”
Chapter 4
Mitch pulled into ‘Rell’s driveway, expecting to find him sick in bed. He cut off his cell. He didn’t want Marci to be able to reach him during this talk with ‘Rell. Darrell Mince was the closest to a brother that Mitch had. He had three siblings, all girls. Mitch and ‘Rell adopted each other during their college years at Maryland University. He respected ‘Rell and his opinions. He hoped this wasn’t a talk that would discredit Marci or Shai.
Mitch never rang the bell. It was a habit that the door was unlocked when ‘Rell expected any of the guys. Mitch walked in and headed straight for the kitchen to grab a beer.
“I’ve got your beer in here man. I heard you pull up.”
“Damn, it’s like that? What’s got you on edge?”
“Mitch, I thought I had my life together. That was about three years ago. I feel like I’m on a rollercoaster and I can’t get off.”
“What’s the problem?”
“Okay, where should I start?”
“Rell, it is what it is. Start where you want, I’ll put it together.”
“Okay, thanks. Shai is pregnant.”
“And we’re just drinking beers?” Mitch laughed, “Shit, I mean okay, and?”
“We’re having twins.”
“Rell, twins? What do you mean having? You can’t possibly think that this is okay. I mean you guys have a lot of problems to consider?”
“Yeah, man. I said the same thing. We’re going to the doctor together next month to talk with her about the problems.”
“Next month. C’mon ‘Rell, you and Shai can’t be thinking that you can have these kids. That’s your sister, man.
What about their health? What are you going to tell your mother or your grandmother?”
“Mitch, the doctor told her it would be a risk to her and the twins if she had an abortion at this late date.”
“Late, ‘Rell how far along is she?”
“Five months, she’s not showing much though. She said they checked closely for their development because it was twins, she’s in her fifth month.”
“Man, do you think she knew about it. I mean five months and you don’t notice a change?”
“Mitch, she has gained a little weight but not pregnancy weight. Man, I don’t know. She still had her period. At any rate, even if she knew we can’t change the facts.”
“They say their breast change. I know you would have noticed that.”
“I don’t know Mitch.”
“So, what are you guys going to do? Announce it at a Sunday family dinner? She’ll be showing real soon. I can’t imagine you playing this off to some mystery boyfriend.”
“Yeah that’s what I said. We didn’t get that far in the discussion. I think we both had an emotional shock. We talked until she fell to sleep. I called you and Mr. Simpson this morning.”
“Mr. Simpson, our secret agent. What did he have to say about the situation?”
“Mitch there’s more shit to uncover.”
“What are you talking about? You’re not the father?”
“I better be! No, he told me that I might find a solution to this matter in my father’s belongings.”
“What, ‘Rell how would your father be able to help you through this?”
“He also added that Tonya Mince would want to use this pregnancy to regain her financial status in D.Q. Enterprises.”
“So, Tonya is not finished?”
“No, Mr. Simpson asked had she contacted us. She didn’t call you, did she?”
“No, the last time she was in the office she vowed she would get even. She mumbled some shit as she left the office. I didn’t take her seriously though.”
“Well, obviously she is serious. Stan said she would walk over both Derek and Shai to acquire a piece of my father’s business. I wanted to talk about our dilemma, and he just told me to go through my father’s belongings.”
“Okay, so your plan is to search through his stuff first. And then if you don’t find what may help you, what will you do?”
“I don’t know. Stan sounded certain that the solution was there. Shai and I are inviting you and Marci to dinner to talk about this so maybe by then I can get to my father’s things.”
“Okay, so is dinner Saturday or Sunday?”
“I’ll leave that up to Shai. She’ll probably talk to Marci first. So you’ll know before me.”
They both laughed. Communication in their friendship circle was like this since Marci and Mitch started dating. Mitch and ‘Rell would talk while Marci and Shai talked. Marci would tell Mitch and Mitch would then tell ‘Rell. ‘Rell would agree with Mitch knowing that Shai already knew about the matter.
“So if it’s Sunday, Byron will talk about both of us canceling. This is our week out.”
“You know what? Byron won’t be here this week. I think he’s meeting Tracey’s family in Washington over the weekend. Sunday may be the best of the two days. After all you don’t want to see your team get their ass handed to them.”
“Who are we playing?
“You play St. Louis.”
“Yeah, Sunday’s good. The Eagles are in a slump.”
“Mitch, wake up brother. They are slumped!”
Chapter 5
Mitch left ‘Rell preparing his briefcase for his afternoon meetings. ‘Rell called Ms. Berry and told her his schedule for the week would have to be revised. He knew he would need at least two days to go through his father’s closet and storage trunks. As she gave him his list of clients he would be meeting with later in the week, ‘Rell put their folders in his briefcase to remind him to go over the paperwork sometime during the day.
Shai called saying she survived her class and was on her way to work. Her shift would end at seven that evening and she would be at Nana’s with Marci. They were meeting Mia, Marci’s sister and their mother Darlene and a few others for their monthly book club meeting.
‘Rell was glad the meeting was early in the week. He would need Shai to be available if he found disturbing news in his father’s belongings. Shai’s call reminded him to telephone his grandmother and see if she would be home later in the week. He had a key to get in; he just wanted her to know what he would be doing.
“Morning Nana, it’s ‘Rell.”
“Hey Baby, how are you? I just spoke to your mother.”
“Yeah is she home yet?”
“No, she decided she would stay until Wednesday, something about meeting some fabric supplier.”
Nikki loved interior decorating and took a leave of absence from her job as a Secretarial Assistant, hoping her cousin Simone would be her partner in developing an interior design business of their own.
“Things must be going well with Simone. My mother was worried that Simone wouldn’t take her up on her offer.”
“I don’t know baby. She didn’t say whether Simone was there or not. But she said she would be calling you after she got settled this morning.”
“My day started unsettled too.” ‘Rell wished he could tell Nana about Shai, the babies and their relationship.
“Nana, I want to go through my father’s things, maybe, Thursday or Friday. Will that be okay with you?”
“Baby, what time you talking about starting on Thursday? Reverend Wilcox is coming to pick me up Thursday morning. We’re shopping for Bible covers for the Bible study class.”
“I have my keys but I wanted you to know I would be going through his things.”
“That’s fine, you can come by but lock up good if you leave before I get back. ‘Rell there’s a lot to go through. Your Uncle Darryl has been trying to get here to go through his things for weeks. Do you suppose your father has something worth some money in all those papers?”
“I don’t know Nana. I just want to go through the papers, sort them if needed and put them up.”
“Well you’re welcome to it. Mr. Simpson asked had you gone through D.Q.’s things yet. I told him I didn’t think it was of interest to you. But if you want to do it Thursday then fine.”
“Yeah, I’ll take off Thursday and Friday to handle that. I’ll call the family members if they need to know any information that may be in his papers.”
“Talk to Mr. Simpson first. You know family gets real stupid when they think they’re owed something.”
“Yeah, you’re right.” ‘Rell thought about Tonya and what Mr. Simpson said about her.
“Nana, has Tonya called you lately?”
“She calls Darlene. ‘Rell she don’t want no parts of what I want to tell her.”
“I can understand that Nana. I deal with her from a distance, when I have to deal with her.”
“What is she bothering you for? I thought she wasn’t connected with the Enterprises.”
“Legally, she’s not. She’s just snooping. Trying to get close enough to find out what’s going on.”
“Well, what is going on that would interest Tonya?”
“Nana, Tonya wants to own a part, or what she can of D.Q. Enterprises. Mr. Simpson warned me to be aware of her.”
“Yeah, and Mr. Simpson is right. Tonya is all for Tonya.”
“Well, I’ve been warned and she will be warned too.”
“Mr. Mince, I’m quite sure you can handle it.”
“Thanks for the vote of confidence Nana.”
Chapter 6
Nikki hung up the phone shaking her head. “Simone, tell me that you wrote the number down for the fabric warehouse in the village. There’s no answer at the number I’m dialing. I’m beginning to think the office is closed.”
“Why would they be closed? It’s Tuesday.”
“I’m not sure, but it’s been at least two years since I used this warehouse. Maybe they changed their number, or they’re no longer in business.”
“Is that the only place you deal with? Maybe we should just go to the fabric district and walk around. We might find suppliers that we can make the same type deals with.”
“You’re right. Are you ready to go?”
Simone entered her livingroom carrying her oversized purse and her boots. She sat on her couch and sighed.
“Simone, are you okay?”
“Girl, it’s just the thought. I didn’t know what I was going to venture into next. I just didn’t want to work another job that held no security for my future. I wanted to work for myself, but I didn’t know what I would or could do. It was one of those re-occurring dreams. Then you call and say you’re coming to visit and whew, dreams do come true.”
“Listen girl, it’s still a dream. We have a lot of hard work ahead of us. It will take a lot of unrewarded hours to get this thing off the ground. I want to make sure we have a strong foundation so if we fall, we can fall on a cushion.”
“You’re right. A lot of small businesses start out with a strong financial backing, experience, and knowledge of how competitive their field may or may not be.”
“I’ve done the research. The market for interior designs is a growing field. We have to put ourselves out there though. That’s where you come in. You have the ability to sell our service. I can teach you the rest. I’m going to talk with ‘Rell and his partners about a sound business plan. That’s why I need to know who would be our potential suppliers and what stock may cost.”
“Well, sister-girl, I’m ready.”
“Simone, I want you to know I love you. I’m glad you accepted my offer. This is a new beginning for both of us, and I’m scared to death, but knowing you’re in it with me eases my fears.”
“Nikki, don’t start! We’ll be here sniffing and blowing if you start. I feel the same. If you had started this venture without me, I would have been pissed!”
“Did you write down that number?”
They both hugged each other and laughed. Simone went in the kitchen and handed Nikki her note pad. She and Nikki had spent two days writing plans, contact information and a schedule for the next month.
“I think it’s this number here. Are you sure you dialed it correctly?”
“I thought so but I could have been wrong.”
Nikki tried the number again. She smiled as the phone call finally connected. Simone slipped into her bedroom to get her cell phone she left on the dresser. When she returned, Nikki was standing at the door with Simone’s purse in her hand.
“Girl, you are in a hurry this morning.”
“Mr. Denson said after all the years of working with me he would give us open credit. Let’s get out of here before he changes his mind.”
“Girl that’s what I’m talking about, dreams coming true.”
Chapter 7
The weather was showing signs of winter approaching, but there still was no need for heavy outerwear. Simone talked most of the way to the fabric district telling Nikki how they could set up a business account that could be easily managed from Virginia. Nikki didn’t think much about what Simone was saying until she hinted that finding an apartment in Virginia would be difficult without proof of employment. Nikki couldn’t understand Simone being so willing to leave her stable job in New York.
“Simone, I thought you took a leave of absence from your job?”
“I did, kinda. I left the job on suspension. I didn’t go back. That makes it a leave. I’m still on their payroll. I just haven’t been back.”
“Simone, you were suspended? Suspended for what?”
“What? Does that mean that I can’t work with you? Nikki it wasn’t my fault. I had an argument with a coworker who filed a complaint.”
“And you got suspended?”
“Yes, I got suspended.”
“How long have you been out of work?”
“D.Q.’s funeral was in May, right?”
“What? Since May, Simone, why didn’t you say something?”
“What was I supposed to say? You got mad at me after the reading of the will remember?”
“Simone, you made me feel like you wanted in on D.Q.’s money. Money I wasn’t guaranteed and didn’t have.”
“No, money you didn’t know you would have.”
“Simone! How could you want to benefit from D.Q.’s death?”
“Nikki, you’re taking this all wrong. I was in a financial crunch. I had just been suspended and rent was due. I guess in desperation I came off wrong. Things worked out for me though.”
“I don’t even want to ask.”
Simone had a bad habit of borrowing money from ex lovers and boyfriends that she never intended to pay back. This caused problems in her relationships and problems with her and Nikki. Nikki usually paid them back to keep trouble from knocking at Simone’s door.
“I didn’t borrow money from anyone if that’s what you’re thinking.”
“Okay, so you’ve been out of work since May, it is now October. How have you made your ends meet all this time?”
“Nikki, leave it alone. Believe me, it won’t resurface, and you don’t have to repay it. I’m just glad I can move on.”
Nikki stopped walking. “Simone, if we’re going to be business partners we need to be honest with each other. I would think our relationship was honest anyway. I just want you to be okay. I don’t want shadows following you or us into this business.”
“It won’t believe me.”
“Okay, I don’t want to be making money and have to forfeit it because of you and some ex ‘I love you’ shit.”
They both found the humor in the comment as they walked on. Simone kept her thoughts to herself knowing Nikki wouldn’t like how she managed to get by the last six months. She had promised Darryl, D.Q.’s brother that she wouldn’t tell Nikki or ‘Rell about his newly acquired frequent flyer miles that stopped quite often in New York.
Mr. Denson showed both, Nikki and Simone to his conference room. The larger window served as a wall that overlooked the eastside of the huge warehouse. The room was filled with sample swatches posted on the walls. Various spools of thread were stationed at what looked like sewing cubicles. Simone had never seen so much fabric in one area. Nikki met with Mr. Denson on occasion when she took on large jobs for new offices or homes. He always complimented her taste in materials and the pictures she showed of her finished work.
“Ms. Robbins, I’m so glad you haven’t given up your passion. I was hoping your absence meant you went into business for yourself.”
“Mr. Denson that’s what I want to talk with you about.”
“Oh, you are in business in, where was it that you lived?”
“Virginia. I haven’t decided completely but if it won’t dig a hole too large for me, I’m willing to give it a shot.”
“Well, then the decision is made. You’ll be fine, give it a shot. I think I mentioned to you on several occasions you have an eye for interior design. I hope our meeting means you have chosen me for your fabric supplier.”
“Mr. Denson, I think you knew that.”
“Are you thinking of moving to New York?”
“No, my cousin Simone and I will be business partners. She lives here in New York.”
“I see. Simone is your eye for interior design like Nikki’s?”
“I can’t say that I am as good as Nikki, but I do have an eye for designing. I guess it’s in our blood.”
“Well ladies, let’s look at what I can offer. Whatever I can do to help you get started, please take advantage of me.”
“Mr. Denson we won’t take advantage of you, so don’t you take of advantage of us.”
The three of them sat, talked and laughed for most of the morning. Nikki gave Mr. Denson her new business cards and they all shook hands bidding each other good-bye. Once they stepped into the winter air, they both turned up their coat collars and quickly crossed the busy intersection.
“Nikki, what is the name of the company again?” Simone felt slighted. She hadn’t seen the business cards. Nikki didn’t mention the company’s name or if Simone’s name was on the card at all.
“Interior Dreams.”
“That is so different. I like it. Will I have my own business cards?”
Nikki stopped and looked in the side of her tote bag. She handed a stack of business cards to Simone. Simone looked at the card and smiled, it read ‘Interior Dreams’; Nikki Robbins, Simone Marshall - Proprietors.’ There was a toll free number and a fax number listed.
“Girl, we’re really in business!”
“In business with an open line of credit, now we need to shop around for customers.”
“Nikki, you didn’t answer my question about me moving to Virginia.”
“Simone there’s no rush, really, you can stay in New York for a while if you can afford it. I mean, what is your financial situation? Are you collecting unemployment or what?”
“I’m collecting unemployment as of next week. I still have to file.”
“Girl, I don’t know what you’re up to but just keep it in your personal file. I’m serious. I don’t want it to ruin this dream I have for us.”
“It won’t, trust me.”
The rest of their morning was filled with window shopping and making a supplier address list. Simone’s thoughts drifted from the business to Darryl. Living in New York would be better for the business, but it would also allow her to meet with Darryl with no questions asked.
“This mess has to stop. Nikki won’t go for it if she finds out I’m sleeping with D.Q.’s brother. Besides, he’s not leaving his family and I’ll be damned if I wait.”
“Simone do you think you would want to live in Virginia. I mean we could travel to New York when we needed to. You could stay with me until you got stable and then find your own place.”
“I’ll stay put for now. I have a few loose ends to tie up before I move.”
“Simone, tie them in a knot.”
They both laughed and moved on looking to the next window display.
Chapter 8
Tonya answered her phone and paused as she listened to the voice on the other end.
“Tonya, I’m so glad I caught you before you left for work.”
The man’s voice was one Tonya was not prepared for. After dealing with D.Q.’s death and funeral, she had hoped her dealings with Karlton Harris were buried too.
“Tonya, say something baby.”
“Good morning Karlton, how are you?”
“Just fine, trying to catch up with you these last few weeks has been a chore. Did you forget to return my calls?”
“I have been trying to cope, you know. D.Q. is dead now and it is taking a while to get a handle on things.”
“Does that include my money? I haven’t received an envelope since June.”
“Karlton, I know you don’t think our agreement is still on. D.Q. is dead.”
“Tonya, what does D.Q. have to do with this? I made an agreement with you. I never asked him for nothing. He didn’t owe me anything. Hell, the man didn’t even know me like that. That’s the way you wanted to keep it remember? My business is with you. Just the way you wanted it.”
“Well, Karlton, that was fine when D.Q. was living. As I said he is dead. There is no business left between us.”
“How’s Shai and Derek?”
“Why are you asking about them?”
“I just thought I would ask. How are they managing since their father died?”
“Karlton, what are you getting at?”
“Tonya, we ain’t ever been able to play around with each other fairly. Why start now? I want my money. You’re overdue. Let’s say I allowed you to miss because your husband died. You’ve had more than enough time to grieve. I’ll expect to be paid next month.”
“Karlton, we really need to talk about this.”
“We just did. I hear Shai is doing well at Richmond Medical Center. A Medical Technician and studying in the field of… What is that again, Research Biology? You should be proud. Derek is holding his own now too. They both have their own Condo’s and he owns Quintech Designs. I’d say they have been set up well.”
“Karlton, you promised to keep them out of this.”
“So I did. Tonya, check your caller ID. Keep my number. I don’t want to make this call turn into a visit. I mean, unless you want to invite me over for dinner or something more comforting.”
“Is that what this is about? D.Q. is dead and you want to know if you have a chance?”
“Don’t flatter yourself baby. We’re done, unless you want to play around a night or two. I want what was promised to me. Tell Shai and Derek hello for me. They probably don’t remember me, huh?”
“I don’t have any money Karlton. D.Q. didn’t leave me anything. I work to make my ends meet and that’s it.”
“Wallet can’t cover your expenses? Baby please, I wasn’t born yesterday. D.Q. was sitting on a gold mine. You were his wife. Shit me my golden egg on a regular and I’ll be gone. If not, I’ll wreck your happy nest.”
The phone clicked. Tonya put her cordless phone in its cradle. “Shit, what was I thinking? D.Q. your family will pay for this shit. If you had done me right this would not be happening. Damn!”
She decided to go to work would not be an option. There was business to be dealt with. She would have to speak with the associates at D.Q. Enterprises. They would have to understand her financial situation. She would put up an argument and threaten the company with embarrassment in the media. Tonya knew they avoided scandals at all cost, but she would put one in their lap if they didn’t give her a lucrative share of the company's stock. She only needed something to maintain her living expenses and enough to get rid of Karlton Harris, one way or another.
Chapter 9
Rell arrived at D.Q. Enterprises at ten thirty. Ms. Berry greeted him with a pleasant smile while handing him his morning messages. As he entered his office, he remembered Keith’s appointment was on the agenda. He decided to get situated before asking Ms. Berry if Keith called or was waiting in the reception area.
“Mr. Mince, Mr. Larson is in Mr. Carter’s office. Should I let him know you are in now?”
“No, Ms. Berry, that’s okay, I’ll call Mr. Carter.”
The secretary was ahead of his thoughts as usual.
“Mr. Mince, Mrs. Mince called this morning requesting to speak with you. When I told her you weren’t in she insisted you call her when you arrived. She left the number for you to call. It’s with your morning messages but I wanted you to know she stressed it was urgent that she speak to you this morning.”
“Not a problem Ms. Berry. I was expecting her call. Thank you. Is there anything else?”
“No, I think I covered it all.”
“Thanks. Ms. Berry, hold all my calls until I meet with Mr. Larson.”
‘Rell called Mitch’s office to let both Keith and Mitch know he was in his office. He told them he would come down in about ten minutes to talk with Keith. He wanted to return Tonya’s call.
“Good morning, Mrs. Mince?”
“Rell, thank you for returning my call, I thought you were avoiding me.”
Tonya got comfortable with her pen and pad ready to make notes of their conversation.
“Why would I do that? I’m quite sure my secretary told you I was out of the office. Unlike others, if I didn’t want to talk to you, I don’t have to make up any excuses. I simply would have refused your call.”
‘Rell wanted her to understand there was no reason for either of them to disguise how they felt. He didn’t care for her or her intentions. He planned on letting her know what he felt. He was waiting for the appropriate time. First, he needed to know what she wanted, or what she was going after.
Tonya didn’t care for his response, but she needed to keep her thoughts to herself, for the moment. She knew she wouldn’t get far if she came across harsh. ‘Rell was in command for now, but it wouldn’t be long.
“I didn’t know what to think, but let’s not dwell on that. I would like to sit with you and talk over a few matters that your father left undone.”
“Such as?”
Tonya could feel tension in ‘Rell’s voice. What does he know? ‘Rell seemed well prepared for the battle.
“Some of the stocks that were sold were not just D.Q. Enterprises’ to sell. Since they were sold, I am entitled to a percentage of the sale. I am quite sure we can come to some agreement on the amount owed. I also invested in a few of the vacation homes. I have searched D.Q. Enterprises property's web sites and the owners, my name is not listed.”
“What would be the purpose of meeting with you? I have employees who can research your concerns. If necessary, my lawyer can look into them for you and contact your lawyer with the findings.”
“Rell is there a reason you prefer to keep a distant relationship with me. It seems that you don’t want to deal with me directly.”
“Mrs. Mince this is business. I prefer to keep business as business. I don’t have to deal with you directly for the matters you wish to discuss. Besides, these matters were arranged prior to my involvement in D.Q. Enterprises. You may have to make an appointment to see Mr. Scott or Mr. Franklin to look into the original documents.”
“I see, so talking with you about this is not the way to a solution?”
“If you should have a problem after talking with the people who can help you, I will be more than happy to assist you. It’s just that I don’t know the entire picture. I don’t like dealing with bits and pieces.”
“Hmmn, I wonder if you would treat anyone else this way. I can’t help thinking that for personal reasons you don’t want to sit with me.”
“What reasons? Mrs. Mince you seem to forget my position in the company. I employ people to solve problems for our stockholders and investors. That would include your claims to being either. Even if I did sit with you and get all the information I would still have to go to these employees and the partners to get answers for you. I am actually saving you time. I’m quite sure you want this resolved so you can get on with your life.”
“Rell, D.Q. Enterprises is my life. Until your father and I separated, I was a part of D.Q. Enterprises. I want to remain just that.”
“It was my father’s decision to sell your stock and pay off your investments. Whether or not you have more stocks or investments is a matter to be researched. I respect my father’s wishes, and I have no intentions not to carry them out. If after discovery we should find that you do have stock or investments we will buy your shares. Mrs. Mince you will not be a part of D.Q. Enterprises as long as I own it.”