Chapter 15
DESIRAE
Normally, I’d be on top of the world following a show. Appointments and orders are filling my schedule, and news of the event’s success made it all the way to New York City. But concern for Mrs. Reilly’s health and my all-over-the-place emotions about Stone are tempering my feelings of excitement.
I can’t seem to wrap my head around the two sides of Stone.
On the one hand, he’s caring, benevolent, and supportive.
The way he was so attentive to Mrs. Reilly, understanding and compassionate during her confused state, contrasts so sharply with his business side.
And despite what I had told myself earlier about just enjoying sex with him, we connected on a level I’ve never experienced.
Mind, body, and soul. I gave myself freely to him, and finally felt like I could trust him, until I overheard two of his board members talking after the fashion show.
I had gone in to retrieve my purse after tucking Mrs. Reilly into my car.
The men thought they were all alone, unaware that I was in the back.
These people are fools if they think this little publicity stunt will actually change anything. We’ll throw some money at them in the name of charity, then we’ll start bulldozing the buildings.
Just thinking about their callous words and inconsiderate laughter makes my blood boil.
After everything Stone and I have shared together, in and out of bed, he still plans to move forward with his project?
He’s no better than George. My hands shake with anger as I hang decorations for the fall festival window decoration contest, something I normally take great joy in.
I’m still inside the display window when I see Regina approaching. I’ve managed to avoid her at the condo because of my emotions about Stone. I haven’t been able to answer his calls or texts. My disappointment and anger are too raw, too fresh.
She waves, and I try my best to give her a genuine smile. She’s not responsible for Stone’s actions, so I can’t blame her. She’s always been so kind to me; I need to separate the fact that she’s my friend and neighbor from the reality that she’s Stone’s mother.
“Hello dear. I brought you some cookies. Do you have time for a chat?”
Maybe it would be good to talk it through with her. After all, she knows Stone better than anyone else.
“Regina, I just love your cookies! How about some tea to go with them?”
I wipe my hands on the apron I have tied around my waist before inviting her to the kitchen area in the back.
Once we sit down with steaming mugs of tea, Regina doesn’t mince words.
“What’s going on between you and Stone? You looked so happy after the show, and now my son’s acting like he lost his best friend, and it seems you’ve been avoiding me around the condo.”
What am I supposed to say? I trusted your son and he betrayed me? I’m in love with Stone, so I let my guard down and got burned? “It’s complicated.”
“In matters of the heart, it’s always complicated.”
“You can say that again.” I take a nibble of my cookie, hoping the sugar will boost my spirits, at least for a short time.
“Desirae, hun, one thing I’ve learned over the years is the power of forgiveness.
When someone makes a mistake, if you can find a way to forgive, you’ll be a lot happier.
I’ve also learned that sometimes things are not what they seem.
And I know my son. Despite being successful in business, when it comes to his personal life, he holds things in.
He’s better at showing you how he feels, rather than telling you.
I suspect that’s an issue now. I only wish I’d had the opportunity for a second chance.
I would have grabbed it. Whatever it is, I’m hoping you’re willing to give him a second chance. ”
I’m curious about whether her words have anything to do with Mrs. Reilly. But before I can ask, she speaks.
“By the way, how is Mrs. Reilly doing?”
“She’s doing well. Her doctor adjusted her meds, so hopefully her blood sugar will stay in range. She doesn’t remember much about what happened, although she’s mentioned several times how much she enjoyed meeting you and Stone.”
After Regina departs, I fix another cup of tea, contemplating her words.
Her motherly wisdom hits home. I’ve been hurt badly before, but Stone is not George.
He deserves a chance to explain. And it’s time to admit to myself that my feelings for him have grown far deeper than I intended. But at what cost?