CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE
A s I pulled away from Will’s office, I decided to go home. We’d talked about the importance of communication, and I wanted to let Vaughn know the situation.
When I got home, Vaughn was down at the sailboat cleaning it up from the last time we’d used it. Some men liked to fuss with their cars; mine liked to fuss with his sailboat.
I called out to him as I walked down the slope to speak to him.
He looked up, grinned, and waited for me to come closer.
When I did, he set down the bucket of water and reached for me.
Our lips met, and I nestled against him, feeling protected and loved and very grateful, most of all, for our life together and how we shared it.
“How are things with Arthur? And how’s Will doing?”
“Why don’t I fix some sandwiches, and we can talk about it? It’s pretty complicated within the family.”
“Okay, I’ll be up in a minute,” said Vaughn. “I want to hear all about it.”
###
L ater, after sharing more than lunch with Vaughn, including midday lovemaking, I headed to the hotel and went to find Bernie.
I’d been thinking about Lorraine and our need to support her. She might need privacy. We could provide her with a room at the hotel or, perhaps, she could stay at my house. With Thanksgiving in a couple of days and the two weddings we had for the weekend, I prayed she’d be able to work and would want to work to keep busy.
Bernie was in his office talking on the phone when I knocked on the door and opened it at his request.
He indicated a chair in front of his desk, and I took a seat to wait for him to finish his call.
“I’m glad you’re here,” he told me after he ended the call. “As you may have guessed, that was Mike Torson. He and I were discussing a secure place for Lorraine to stay so she wouldn’t have to deal with any reporters at her house.”
“I’ve already thought of it. If we don’t think she should stay here, she can stay at my house. I’ve already talked to Vaughn about the possibility. As she’s part of our hotel family, we need to protect her.”
“Agreed,” he said. “She’s presently at home. I believe Arthur has posted bail, and he’s with her. Would you agree to take them both into your home? I know the situation is difficult with Rhonda and her family, and I don’t want to do anything to cause trouble between you.”
“Tell you what, I’ll talk to Rhonda, and she can decide for me. As you said, I don’t want any bad feelings between us and our families.”
“That sounds reasonable,” said Bernie. “Let me know when you’ve made a decision.”
“Will do,” I said and left his office.
Rather than meeting again at Rhonda’s house, I decided it was best to ask her to join me here. This would be a business decision, not an emotional one regarding our families. I'd honor her wishes if Rhonda didn’t feel it was right.
###
B efore I started the conversation about Lorraine with Rhonda, I said, “How are things going with Will?”
“After you left, we talked about the situation and the need for us to talk about everything,” said Rhonda. “I understand Will didn’t want me involved with his business, but he can’t let worries almost kill him. In the future, this upset might be a reminder for him.”
“And now?”
“He and Reggie will need to smooth out this huge wrinkle in their relationship. It’s hard to work with family. Reggie needs to understand that Will made a business decision, not an emotional, hurtful one.”
“I can imagine how conflicted Will must have felt when he suspected things were not right with the advice.”
“That’s it. He didn’t want to harm his relationship with Reggie and certainly not with our daughter.” Rhonda took out a tissue from her pocket and dabbed at her eyes. “Angela still won’t take my calls, and Will doesn’t want me to go to their house until things have settled down.”
I waited a few moments, and then I said, “Bernie and I have discussed how to protect Lorraine from any harassment. We need her at the hotel to work if she’s willing.”
“Definitely. For Thanksgiving and the two weddings.”
“If Lorraine isn’t comfortable staying at the hotel, I’m willing to offer her, and Arthur, too, a place at my house. Vaughn has approved it, but neither of us wants to do anything that might cause friction between you and me. If you feel that having them stay with us would be like taking sides, so to speak, and you don’t like the idea, we won’t make the offer.”
“Aw, Annie, that’s so sweet. But as we’ve always agreed, Lorraine is part of the hotel family. She needs us to help her. This situation must have been a shattering experience for her. No doubt there will be reporters wanting to catch a glimpse of them. Will says Arthur will be allowed to state his case with the SEC and should be given a chance to do so.”
“Okay, then, I’ll call and make my offer. Heaven knows we need her at the hotel.” I rose from my chair, went to Rhonda, and gave her a big hug. “You are a fantastic person. I love you for many reasons, and kindness is one of them.”
“Oh, Annie,” said Rhonda, grabbing a fresh tissue and wiping her eyes. “We were always meant to be sisters, you know. I just think it took us a few years to find each other.”
Now, I felt the sting of tears and accepted the tissue box Rhonda handed me. I’d always wanted a sister, and I couldn’t think of anyone better for me.
While Rhonda left the office to talk to Bernie, I called Lorraine. She was hesitant at first to take me up on my offer, but after a brief conversation with Arthur, they both agreed it might be a smart move.
“We’ll come in two separate cars and maybe at different times in case the television news truck returns.”
“Okay, I’ll tell the guard at the gate to our community to look out for you. I’m going home now to get things ready for you. You’ll stay in the guest suite, so you can have all the privacy you need.”
“Yes, I love your house and its seclusion,” said Lorraine. “How can I ever thank you?”
I paused and said honestly, “By helping at the hotel as long as you feel comfortable doing it.”
“Deal,” said Lorraine. She let out a huge sigh. “I never imagined anything like this. Arthur is devastated.”
I ended the call and went to see Bernie.
Rhonda and Bernie were talking when I knocked on the door and went in.
“What’s the decision?” asked Rhonda.
“Both Lorraine and Arthur will stay at my house,” I said. “Lorraine has agreed to work at the hotel as long as she’s comfortable.”
“Thank you, Ann. It was the right thing to do,” said Bernie. “If Lorraine feels uncomfortable acting as hostess intermittently with the two of you on Thanksgiving, we’ll have Annette do it. Lorraine can help in the back of the house.”
“That sounds like a plan. Nell and her family were supposed to come for Thanksgiving. It turned out to be a good thing they had to cancel,” I said, thinking of life’s twists and turns.
###
A t my house to get ready for our guests, Vaughn greeted me with a kiss. I quickly informed him of the latest news from Rhonda and what was going on with Lorraine and Arthur.
“They want to arrive in their own cars and will get here at different times, hoping no one notices. I’ve already told the guard at the gatehouse they’ll be coming.”
“Are Rhonda and Will okay with this?” Vaughn asked.
“Rhonda has agreed to it, and I’m sure she wouldn’t have if she thought Will would be upset by it. Angela still won’t take her call.”
“But it’s not Rhonda’s fault this happened,” said Vaughn, frowning.
“I think it’s a matter of divided family loyalty,” I said, “but that’s something they’ll have to work out.”
“It’s a beautiful day and is supposed to remain that way,” said Vaughn. “Do you think Arthur will agree to go sailing with me? I’d rather not stay inside acting as host.”
“I bet the fresh air will be enjoyable for him. I don’t know how much they’ll want to talk about the problem. I’ve assured them of privacy in the guest wing.”
“Okay. Robbie’s next door at Brett’s house,” said Vaughn. He pulled me close and stood with his arms wrapped around me.
I snuggled up against him, feeling the day's tension loosen its grip on my neck and shoulders. I looked up at him, wondering how I could get so lucky. Even my best moments with Robert were never like this.
A call from the gatehouse alerted us to Lorraine’s arrival.
I went outside to greet her.
Soon, I saw her car making its way toward me.
I stood at the driveway’s entrance, directed her to the guest parking spot, and waited for her to get out of the car.
When she faced me, I understood how disastrous the situation was for her. Usually, a calm, pleasant expression matched the elegant hairstyle and presence she made. Now, without makeup and looking fragile, almost sick, she easily responded to my hug.
“I’m so sorry this is happening, Lorraine,” I said.
“Arthur told me it should be over soon, that he had requested the paperwork be done to notify the SEC, and for some reason, his friend’s office had not taken care of it properly.”
“Come inside. We’ll get you settled in your suite. Then we can have a cup of coffee or something refreshing to drink.”
Lorraine stood beside me, wringing her hands. “With Thanksgiving tomorrow, I know how much every staff member is needed. I’ll be there, too. I promise.”
“Let’s take it one day at a time. Hopefully, you’ll feel like being there. If not, we’ll work around it. I don’t want to add to your worries.”
“Thanks,” said Lorraine. “I think the busier I am, the better. I have a lot on my mind right now, and I need time to think things through. Keeping busy will help me.” She sighed. “I need to be there for Arthur too. We’ve had a healthy marriage, and I know him to be an honest, decent man.”
“I totally understand,” I said, picking up her suitcase while she grabbed a few bags from the backseat of the car.
We walked inside, and Vaughn met us at the door. “How are you, Lorraine? I heard what happened.”
“I’m not doing great, but we’ll get through this,” said Lorraine.
He took the suitcase from me and led us inside.
I showed Lorraine where everything was in the bedroom and bathroom, and then Vaughn and I left her.
Vaughn gave me a worried look. “Lorraine is really suffering. I like her spirit, though.”
“Yes,” I said. “It’s too bad this has happened. I hope it doesn’t harm Arthur and Lorraine’s marriage. It’s been such a heartwarming one.”
A call announced Arthur’s arrival at the same time we saw him driving into our driveway.
He parked beside Lorraine’s car and got out, standing a moment, gazing around.
A little nervous about meeting him under such conditions, I followed Vaughn outside to greet him. Cindy pranced outside with us, and when she wagged her tail and went right over to Arthur, I felt better. Dogs were sensitive to people and the fact that Cindy liked him meant a lot.
Arthur was as refined in appearance as Lorraine, with classic features. His full head of hair formed a cloud of gray around his head. His eyes, a bright hazel, usually sparkled with interest but now were dimmed, showing his worry. Of average height, he looked smaller and much older than Vaughn, though Vaughn was only a few years younger.
“Hi, Arthur,” Vaughn shook his hand.
“How are you?” I asked, giving him a quick hug. “I’m sorry to hear about your trouble.”
“Yeah, me, too. It never should have happened. I think someone reported me, and I think I know who.”
“Wait a minute,” I said. “You’re not implying that the someone was Will, were you?”
Arthur shrugged. “I don’t know.”
“If you honestly feel that way, I’m sorry, but you can’t stay here,” I said.
Vaughn’s eyes widened. He looked as shocked as Arthur.
“I mean it,” I said. “You must know Will would never do such a thing. You have to believe that as part of our family. Do you understand?”
“Yes,” said Arthur meekly. “It’s something Reggie mentioned. It was about Will not allowing any of their clients to buy that stock.”
“Will is a very conservative investor, which is why his clients trust him,” said Vaughn quietly. “There isn’t a dishonest bone in his body.”
“I think his suspicions about the stock were what was eating him alive. He didn’t want this to become a family affair. None of us wants that,” I said with enough firmness to make it clear.
“You’re right,” said Arthur, rubbing a hand through his gray hair. “I still don’t have all the facts, and I feel like I can’t trust anyone right now. This should never have happened. The filings were supposed to be done.”
Vaughn clapped him on the back. “Come on inside. Lorraine’s already settling into the guest suite.”
“Thanks. I don’t know how long I’ll stay. I’m trying to get in touch with my partners in New York City. One of them is in the same situation.”
I followed Vaughn and Arthur inside.
Vaughn led him back to the guest wing while I stayed in the kitchen. I’d surprised myself by how strongly I felt about protecting Will and Rhonda. But my first loyalty, in this case, was to them, and it always would be.
There was no chance to talk to Vaughn about it because he returned to the kitchen with Lorraine.
“What can I get you?” I asked Lorraine. “Coffee, tea, lemonade, wine?”
“I’d love a cup of black coffee,” she said. “Thanks so much.”
Arthur entered the kitchen, and Vaughn said, “Hey, Arthur, want to come with me down to my boat?”
“That would be great,” said Arthur, looking relieved he wouldn’t be stuck talking with the two of us women.
After they left, Lorraine said, “I heard what you said to Arthur. The idea of Will Grayson doing anything like turning Arthur in is absurd. Even though I’m married to Arthur, Will is my personal financial advisor.”
“I’m glad to hear how you feel,” I said, handing her a fresh cup of coffee. “Let’s sit on the lanai. We’ll get a view of the men on Vaughn’s boat. There’s no better place to relax.”
We were sitting, not saying much, when I got a phone call from Angela.
I got to my feet. “Excuse me, but I have to take this.” I left Lorraine on the lanai and went into the den to talk privately with Angela.
“Hello, Angela. How are you?”
“Not well. My husband is distraught over what happened with his father. It seems Will recently told Reggie he didn’t like the idea of advising people to buy it, and now it’s become a nightmare for his father. He knows Will would never want to see his father hurt, but they have been so competitive ...” She stopped talking and took a deep, shaky breath.
My eyes widened at the implication. “Will almost died from the stress of holding back his concerns about this stock. He felt Arthur and others, too, might think of his negativity as a competitive thing between them. I’ve talked to your mother and Will about this. The reason he kept quiet was that he didn’t want it to become a family contest. But he understood he had a responsibility to advise his clients not to buy it.”
“Reggie is blaming himself for not talking to his father about it. But how could he? It was confidential business. What am I going to do? I must support both my husband and my father-in-law.”
“ And your stepfather,” I said crisply. “ And your mother. I’m disappointed in how you’re treating the best people I know. Perhaps it’s time to take a deep breath and think carefully, Angela. You’ve heard Reggie’s concern about what happened to his father, and subsequently, you have refused to take calls from your mother.”
“What should I do?” asked Angela. “I trust you to tell me your thoughts.”
“I think you should talk to both your parents to have a much clearer perspective from all parties. No matter what, nothing can change the fact that Arthur is caught up in something he shouldn’t be. No one wants this to become an issue that could tear the family apart. Lorraine and Arthur are staying with Vaughn and me, with your parents’ approval.”
“Really? They’d want you to do that?”
“Absolutely. You shouldn’t be surprised by their behavior. That’s the kind of people they’ve always been. There are no sides here, Angela. There have been no attempts from either party to do harm to the other. If Reggie feels guilty that he didn’t tell his father about his concern about his having inside information, it’s something he’ll have to work out for himself. I don’t think anyone is about to blame Reggie for his father’s actions.”
“Okay, I’m going to call Mom now. I ... can’t believe how I’ve acted. I wasn’t ready to talk to her, but now I am. Thanks, Ann. I love you.”
“I love you, too, Angela. You’re like my own.”
I heard sniffling through the phone, and the call ended.
I sat for a moment in the den by myself. Thinking of all the people I loved, I realized once more how complicated families could be.