Chapter 2
Blair gripped her pocketbook tightly as she waited for the doctor to finish making his notes. She had heard from her husband last night. For the first time since their argument, she felt a sense of relief that he was extending his trip for another two weeks.
“We have some things to tie up!” He had paused significantly. “Are we okay?”
“Yes.” She had decided that it was no use prolonging an argument while they were thousands of miles from each other and the decision she had spent sleepless nights considering was a done deal. His absence was going to make things easier.
She refused to think about the consequences of what she was about to do. But as she had told her father, it had to be done. It was the only way to save her marriage, and she desperately wanted to be a mother.
Step one had already started. The controlled ovarian stimulation (COS), as the doctor referred to it as, was already in place. She had read upon the subject extensively and knew the pitfalls and risks.
She might end up with multiples and the more embryos, the greater the risks. All of it had been explained to her in details. The clinic was a private one and benefited from her husband’s family money significantly.
Dr. Melbourne was a family friend, but Blair had prevailed on him to keep her visits confidential. He had been skeptical at first, until she produced a reasonable explanation. “We have been through a lot of disappointments; I just want to surprise him. And I do not want this turning out to be yet another one.”
Step two had been a success as well and she was keeping her fingers crossed.
The doctor cleared his throat, bringing Blair back to the present moment. “Mrs. Caruso, it seems everything is in order. However, I would advise some rest and perhaps a bit of time to yourself to reflect.”
Blair nodded, her mind already racing ahead to the plans she had meticulously laid out. There would be no turning back now. She gathered her belongings and left the office, a determined expression on her face.
Driving back home, Blair thought about the early days of her marriage to Cayden. It had been a whirlwind romance, filled with passion and excitement. But over the years, the weight of expectations and the constant scrutiny from his family had taken its toll.
She wanted to believe that there was still hope left for them, that they could find their way back to each other. But it required a drastic change, a leap of faith that she wasn’t sure she was ready to take.
Upon arriving home, Blair got out of the car and took a deep breath, looking at the sprawling estate that had become a symbol of both her dreams and her struggles. She resolved to have a candid conversation with Cayden upon his return, to lay everything bare and see if they could rebuild what had broken.
As she walked through the grand entrance, she felt a wave of determination wash over her. For the sake of her marriage and the future she envisioned, she would have to take this bold step.
*****
“Would you like me to respond to these invitations?”
Blair looked up from the list she was perusing as her secretary came inside the room. It still felt weird to her that she had her own personal assistant and had balked at the idea at first. Until Marianne had insisted on it.
Rather than arguing with her mother-in-law, a task that often ended in futility, she had acquiesced and reluctantly agreed that it was needed.
As the wife of an immensely powerful man, there were lots of responsibilities and their social calendars were often overflowing. Cayden had an assistant at the corporate office who often liaised with her assistant so that things ran smoothly.
“I need to see them before you do anything.”
Glenna brought them over and placed them in front of her.
Blair had chosen to use the smaller library as her office and as soon as she had settled on the lovely green and gold room, with the sliding glass doors that looked out onto the east side of the garden, provisions had been made by her husband to outfit the room and turned it into a fully functional office.
She seated herself at the elegant desk, its surface an immaculate expanse of polished wood. Blair took a moment to absorb the tranquility of her surroundings, letting the serene ambiance bolster her resolve.
The estate was not just a place of residence; it was a testament to the life she had built and the sacrifices she had made. Yes, it had its burdens, but it also held the promise of the future she yearned for.
Her thoughts drifted back to the forthcoming procedure, a culmination of hope, desperation, and careful planning. She could almost feel the weight of the tiny embryos, the potential lives, cradled in the safety of her womb.
She knew the risks, each one a specter looming over her dreams. Blair had always been pragmatic, but this venture required a blend of pragmatism and unrelenting hope.
Marianne’s insistence on a personal assistant had been just one of the many adjustments Blair had had to make since marrying into the Caruso family.
It was a world of opulence and influence, where every move was scrutinized and every gesture held significance. Blair had navigated this world with grace, but it had not been without its challenges.
She picked up the invitations, each one a symbol of the social duties that came with her role. As she scanned through them, her mind was already aligning them with the other demands of her schedule.
“These two will have to wait.” She made her decision swiftly. It had become easier, deciding what to accept and what not to. In the initial stage, she had called Cayden for every single thing and had been intimidated to say the least.
She was from a simple family and had been plunged into a world of tremendous wealth. She was also the only Black person in the family and that had given her a bit of a worry and insecurity.
“The luncheon will have to be rescheduled until my husband gets back.” She initialed her response and hesitated briefly on the pleas from a children’s home she had adopted. She engaged in a number of charitable events. In the past, she had taken on too many, until she found herself inundated with begging letters.
Marianne had told her firmly that she cannot expect to save everyone. She had suffered guilt that she was wearing enough jewelry in one setting to clothe and feed several children for years and going on as if everything was right with the world.
When she expressed her distress to her husband, he had sat her down and instead of brushing aside her concerns, had explained that she can only do so much and no more.
“You are already doing your part darling, leave it at that.”
“Do up a letter and a budget and let me have a look at it.” She read the request again. “I was supposed to check into this, but did not have the time. Thanksgiving is almost here, and we need to do something for these children.”
“And this?” Glenna planted her ample frame on one of the padded silk chairs, her round chocolate colored face reminding Blair of the principal of the school she had taught at before her marriage.
Blair looked up, meeting Glenna’s gaze with a thoughtful expression. “This is a request from the children's home. They need additional funding for the Thanksgiving event.”
Glenna nodded approvingly. “You’ve always had a big heart for those kids.”
Blair smiled warmly, appreciating the support in Glenna’s voice. “I just want to make sure they have a memorable day.”
“We can tighten up the budget in other areas,” Glenna suggested, her tone pragmatic. “Prioritizing the children’s event seems right.”
Blair nodded, feeling a wave of relief at Glenna’s reassurance. She turned back to her desk, her mind already abuzz with plans and arrangements.
The estate, with all its grandeur, had become a place where she could channel her energy into meaningful causes. It was not just about the social events and the opulence; it was about making a difference, one step at a time.
“Thank you, Glenna,” she said softly, her fingers deftly moving across the keyboard to draft the letter.
Glenna’s gentle presence was a reminder that amidst the complexity of her new life, she had found allies who understood her heart.
“You have a luncheon appointment with Kelly and Leesa to discuss the fall charity ball.”
“I had completely forgotten about that.” She looked at her desk covered with various folders and assortment of letters demanding her attention.
“I will clear up some of those.” Glenna was already sweeping things into a pile. “By the time you get back, I will have the letters ready to be signed.”
“Thanks.” She was about to push away from the desk when her phone rang. “It’s Cayden.”
“I will get started on these,” Glenna left discreetly and closed the door behind her.
“Hi.”
“Hi.”
Blair closed her eyes as his deep voice sent warmth throughout her body. She loved him so much that it was impossible to even verbalize it at times. She had spent the last week or so, resolved to fight for her marriage.
“I miss you.”
Her heart took a quick dive, and she wanted to believe that he was yearning for her the way she was yearning for him.
“When are you coming home?”
“Not for another week.”
Her heart sank. “I see.”
“Are we going to start another argument?” There was a hint of impatience in his voice. “You know the craziness we have going on here and I asked you to stay. Christ, Blair…
You have been gone for almost three weeks now and I would demand that you get your sexy ass on the plane and come back, but you would only refuse. I have a job to do, and it has to be done.”
“I miss you too,” she told him softly. “The bed is too big, and the suite is empty. I am sleeping in one of your t-shirts. It smells like you.”
There was a pause, and she had to smile as she imagined what he was doing. She had managed to diffuse his anger; she was certain of it.
“Blair, I hate this distance between us,” he said, his voice softer now, tinged with regret. “But I promise, once this project is over, we will have time for just us. No interruptions.”
She sighed, feeling the weight of their separation lift slightly with his words. “I am holding you to that promise, Cayden. We need this time together.”
“I know,” he replied. “I will make it up to you. Candlelit dinners, long walks on the beach - everything you love.”
Blair smiled, picturing the two of them reunited, their lives less chaotic. “I’ll be waiting.”
“Till then, keep wearing my t-shirt and remember how much I love you.”
“I will,” she whispered, feeling a pang of loneliness but also a glimmer of hope. “Take care, Cayden.”
“You too, darling. Talk soon.”
As she hung up the phone, she took a deep breath, determined to stay strong. The door opened, and Glenna reappeared, her arms filled with meticulously organized letters.
“Everything alright?” Glenna asked, sensing the emotional turbulence.
Blair nodded, straightening her shoulders. “Yeah, just missing my husband. But I will manage.”
Glenna gave her a sympathetic smile. “You always do.” She placed the letters on the desk. “Ready for your luncheon?”
Blair glanced at the clock and stood up, smoothing her skirt. “As ready as I’ll ever be.”
With renewed determination, she walked out of the office, ready to face the challenges ahead.
*****
If someone had told her she would be rubbing shoulders with the likes of Leesa Wellington and Kelly Takahashi, two former international models who had married powerful men, she would have laughed them out of the room.
She and Monique Romano had become fast friends because of the similarities in their backgrounds. Monique had also been a schoolteacher who had met her husband while vacationing in Italy. It had been her story that had helped Blair to adjust to her now lifestyle.
The restaurant was one that was owned by Kelly, and was elegant and understated, the food delicious and the service one of the best because Kelly demanded nothing less. She and her husband owned restaurants all over the world and somehow they were never in competition with each other.
The couple were still very much in love as they had been from the beginning. It amused and fascinated Blair to see the usually taciturn Kane gazing at his wife as if she were the only woman in the world.
The three women had become her friends as well as the long line of ‘wives’ who had somehow formed a clique.
But as much as she loved these women, she could not tell them yet, what she was doing. Their husbands as well as hers belonged to the same exclusive club and even if she swore them to secrecy, it would somehow slip that she was going through the procedure.
She had already told her dad what she was about and was feeling guilty about telling him over her husband. She did not want to think about his response when he found out what she was up to, and she refused to put it on her mind.
“There you are.” Kelly exclaimed as she escorted to their table by the Ma?tre D.”
“I am so sorry I am late. Cayden called just as I was leaving.”
“Pierre, we will have the lobster bisque and instruct Anthony to see me as soon as I am finished here.”
“Yes Ms. Kelly.” The man bowed respectfully, before hurrying away.
Kelly turned her full attention to Blair, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. "How's everything going with the new project?" She asked.
Blair managed a smile, her mind briefly flitting to the secret she was keeping. "It's coming along," she replied, keeping her tone light. "Lots of moving parts, but I think it's going to be great."
Leesa leaned in; her interest piqued. "Anything we can help with?" She offered, her voice warm and sincere.
Blair shook her head, grateful for her friends' support but determined to navigate this challenge on her own. "Not yet," she said, "but I'll let you know if I need anything."
Monique, ever perceptive, raised an eyebrow but said nothing, her silence a testament to the trust and understanding that had developed between them. She knew better than to press Blair for details, knowing that her friend would share in her own time.
As the conversation shifted to lighter topics, Blair felt a wave of relief. She allowed herself to relax, savoring the camaraderie and the delicious meal. The laughter and shared stories provided a much-needed respite from the concerns that had been weighing on her mind.
“Alright ladies.” Leesa spoke up. They were having the chocolate truffle, and champagne which Blair had refused. “I have another meeting when I leave here and need a clear head.”
This was her excuse as the women stared at her curiously. “We want bigger and better this year. Aside from the usual fundraising efforts – focusing of course on the hospitals, and children’s homes, we are faced with increased homelessness in several nearby states. There are also the victims of the devastating fire in LA.”
“What about a concert?” Kelly suggested.
“That’s going to take a hell of a lot of planning and with winter approaching, we need to send help to the victims as soon as possible.” There are also the families in Haiti and the Philippines.”
As they continued to brainstorm, Blair realized what she loved about these women. They were powerful women married to powerful men but had never lost sight of who they were.
They cared. It was that simple. They were sophisticated and were movers and shakers in their own rights, but at the end of it, they were influential in making a difference. She had questioned herself numerous times about falling for a man like Cayden Caruso, if she had aimed too high and if so, what were the consequences.
But she knew without a doubt that she wanted to be like these women seated around the table. Making a difference to people who needed the help.
“Honey?”
She looked over at Kelly and realized that she had zoned out and the conversation had lapsed.
She quickly gathered her thoughts and smiled apologetically. "Sorry, I was just thinking about how we can make a real impact this year."
Kelly nodded, her gaze thoughtful. "It's a lot to consider, but I know we have the capability to pull it off. The concert idea could be a cornerstone event, drawing in significant funds and attention."
Monique chimed in, "We could partner with some high-profile artists. They often have a keen sense of social responsibility and might be willing to perform for a worthy cause."
Blair's mind raced with possibilities. "We could also leverage social media to spread awareness and encourage donations. It is amazing how quickly information can travel and how many people we can reach."
Leesa leaned back, a thoughtful smile on her face. "I love where this is heading. Let us start organizing teams and delegating tasks. We need all hands-on deck to make this happen."
Blair felt a renewed sense of purpose. The magnitude of their goals was daunting, but with the collective strength and dedication of these women, she believed they could achieve anything. And perhaps, in the process, she would find the confidence to reveal the secret she had been holding close to her heart.
“I was also thinking about my life. I was catapulted into fame and fortune when I married Cayden, and it frightened me.”
“You are not the only one.” Monique reminded her with a laugh. “I endured the comments that I married for money, and I was out of my league.” Her eyes danced merrily. “And I agreed with all of it. My husband was movie star handsome, and I was only regular.”
“There is nothing regular about you,” Leesa reprimanded her., “you have managed to put your particular stamp on a company that was already established. That is no mean feat.”
“Sometimes I feel like I am being swamped.” Monique admitted ruefully. “The company, being a mother and wife to a man who makes me want to hit him over the head and love him at the same time.”
The others laughed.
“We all face similar challenges.” Leesa murmured as she took a sip of her wine. “Being married to Bradley is often a chore.” She toyed with the stem of her glass, her expression thoughtful.
“People on the outside looking in would assume we have perfect lives. But one never knows what goes on in a marriage. We have our difficulties, but the truth is, I would never change it for anything in the world. Even during the troubled times, I am still in love with my guy.”
“Hear! Hear!” Kelly lifted her glass in a toast and the others followed.
“Blair, I know you have been going through your challenges.” Monique offered in her quiet voice. “But you will get through it. And we are here if you need us.”
She felt tears threatening and felt guilty that she could not share with her friends, not yet, not completely. “Thanks. I really appreciate that.”
*****
Blair pressed a shaking hand to her stomach. Step three was in place. The implantation was finished and now it was a waiting period. Dr. Melbourne told her that she could see results as early as three to four days and she was counting on it.
Her husband was coming home over the weekend, but she was still not going to tell him anything yet. She would keep this from him as long as possible.
There was also another factor. She had insisted on multiple embryos in order to even the odds and chances are she was carrying twins or even triplets. The idea of that was making her so excited, she could barely contain it.
If she had multiples, she would no longer have to worry about doing this again. She would have all of her children in one go.
Sitting out in the parking lot, she started praying, like she had never prayed before. She would focus on the positive. This was going to save her marriage. The rumors were still floating around, and one very pushy and malicious reporter had asked her if her marriage was on the verge of collapsing.
She had given the woman a freezing look that had her slinking away. And had been tempted to call and ask Cayden for reassurances. Taking a deep breath, she turned her mind to what was happening inside her body, a smile touching her lips.