After All Read online

  “Well I...Michelle's voice trailed off. Absentmindedly, she drank deeply.

  “Keep that up and you'll have to stay all night. Umm, have some more.”Anthony refilled the glass.

  “Oh no.”Michelle protested weakly even as she allowed him to pour the sparkling liquid.

  “Oh yes.”Anthony pulled her to him. His mouth covered hers.

  “I don't want to spill this on your sofa.” Michelle drew away, her senses reeling from the waves of desire.

  Without answering, Anthony put down his glass then took hers and set it on the coffee table. Using one finger, he lifted her chin slightly. He seemed to come towards her in slow motion. Michelle searched every inch of his face. The smooth brown skin. Dark cotton soft, hair framed his features. She closed her eyes and surrendered. The intensity of her response to his kiss surprised them both. Wrapping her arms around him firmly, she pressed her body to his. The chiffon shawl slid down allowing his hands to caress the smooth, flesh exposed by the low cut dress. Cupping one breast in his hand, Anthony traced kisses down her neck to the soft mounds. Michelle breathed a low moan as she arched her back to meet him. Anthony paused causing her to gasp with frustrated desire. But in moments he lifted her from the sofa to stand against him. Seeing no resistance in her eyes, feeling no attempt to extract herself from his attentions, Anthony took her hand and led her to the bedroom.

  “Wait.”Anthony whispered.

  He went into the kitchen and returned with two large candles. Setting opposite ends of the large dresser, their flames were reflected in the wide mirror giving the room a faint golden glow. With maddeningly slow motions, he unzipped her dress and eased it down over her hips. Pausing to kiss her, he then pushed it to the floor. Michelle stepped back to remove the strapless bra and pantyhose she wore. Never taking his eyes from her, Anthony rapidly yanked free of his costume.

  Michelle sank down to king sized bed and Anthony lay beside her gently stroking her thighs.

  “Tell me what you want. Tell me.”Anthony groaned as her hand sought to caress him into an even bigger erection.

  “Here.” Michelle guided his mouth to her breast. She cried out as his tongue touched her nipples ever so lightly.

  Anthony shifted to get closer to the nightstand. Reaching into the drawer, he took out a condom. Tearing the foil packet, he removed the thin, latex sheath. Michelle waited, anticipating his touch. Anthony pushed her back to nestle on the pillows. Burying his face in her hair, he tenderly entered her. For long, luscious minutes they matched slow movements. Teasing each other to heights of passion before pausing. But only for scant seconds. The sensation of their union compelled them to begin again, each time with more urgent.

  “I love you.”Anthony moaned.”God, I love you so much.”

  “Anthony,” Michelle gasped, clutching his shoulders.

  Lifting her slightly from the bed, he plunged ever deeper. Michelle felt an explosion of pleasure begin inside her at the probing of his hardness, then roll throughout her body taking her breath away. Feeling his body shiver, she cried out, a cry of pleasure and abandon. Tired and spent, they lay together with arms entwined. Both remained silent and thoughtful for a long time.

  “Are you sorry?”Anthony stared at her, a worried look shadowing his handsome features.

  Michelle searched for regret and found none.”No, I'm not.”

  “Then talk to me.”He rested his chin on her head.

  “This scares me. It's so... intense.” Michelle felt naked in more ways than one. Was the happiness worth the pain he could bring?

  “I can't promise we'll never have an argument or be angry with each other. But I've cherished you for years and I won't let anyone or anything keep us a part.”Anthony gripped her tighter as if to prove his words.

  “But your uncle is still who he is.” Michelle drew back to look up at him.

  “Yes, and though I love him, it doesn't mean I support everything he does.”Anthony caressed her cheek, his eyes soft with love. “I don't want to choose.”

  “I'm not asking you to.” Michelle felt a surge of guilt at the thought of her investigative report. She struggled with her duty to the story and her desire not to hurt Anthony. “Just understand that I can't overlook some things,” she said.

  “Believe me, Chelle, I do.”Anthony's voice was low and full of tenderness. They nestled back against the large fluffy pillows.

  “What time is it?” Michelle murmured.

  “Almost three.”

  “I should be getting home.” Michelle made no move to leave the warmth of his bed.

  “Might as well stay for breakfast.”

  “I can't drive home in broad daylight in that dress.” Michelle said, her voice drowsy.

  “Trust me, without it you'll attract a lot more attention.”Anthony chuckled.

  Michelle gave no reply because she was already asleep, her arms wrapped around his waist. Anthony pressed his lips to her forehead and dozed off to the sound of low music drifting in from the living room.

  ***

  “Good morning all.” Michelle bustled in.”This cool weather is wonderful. I hope it holds up until Thanksgiving. Ahh, fresh coffee.”

  “Who's she?”Kate spoke in a stage whisper to Gracie.

  “Someone doing a bad impersonation of Michelle Toussaint, who we all know is not a morning person.” Gracie squinted at Michelle.

  “What are you two chattering about? Why Kate, you look stunning. That shade of green brings out your eyes.”Michelle beamed at her.

  “Thanks.” Kate turned to Gracie. “Whoever she is, I vote we keep her. I won't tell anybody if you won't. Bye all.” She waved as she left.

  “Guess I don't have to be Sherlock Holmes to deduce you had great weekend.” Gracie sat forward eagerly.

  “A perfect description.” Michelle's peered over her cup with eyes that sparkled.

  “That flush of joy means a man is responsible. And no ordinary man. We’re talking good old-fashion, bone shaking Doctor Feelgood.”

  “Well....” Michelle pursed her lips primly.

  “You don't have to give me details. He left the evidence all over you like fingerprints, darlin'. Just tell me who it is. I won't tell a soul, cross my heart.”

  Michelle grinned at her. “Liar. Anyway, you met him.”

  “Yeah.”

  “He's kind, sensitive--”

  “Yeah, yeah. Skip that and tell me who he is.”

  “Anthony Hilliard.”

  “Hello! Handsome and great in bed. What a combination.”

  “Gracie!” Michelle shushed her looking around.

  “Being handsome doesn't guarantee a man's got the right stuff.”Gracie shrugged.

  “What makes you think we... you know.”Michelle lowered her voice.

  “Are you kidding? You've got so much afterglow you look like a giant light bulb.”

  Michelle sighed and propped one hand under her chin.”I know I'm wearing this goofy grin, but it won't go away. I stood in the mirror for fifteen minutes trying.”

  “My oh my. Things certainly are racing along with you two.”

  Earl walked up with a steaming mug of coffee.”What things? Who are we talking about?”

  “Girl talk. You wouldn't be interested. On my way to the editing room. I'll be back in a few and we'll finish this discussion.” Gracie left with a hand full of papers.

  “Saw you at the Halloween dance. It was really nice.”

  “Why didn't you come over to say hello?” Michelle pointed to a chair for him to sit down.

  “Y'all were on your way out by that time. I didn't know you were friends with Anthony Hilliard.” Earl sat at the vacant desk.

  “We've known each other for years.”

  “Pretty close then?” Earl stirred his coffee with a small plastic spoon still sticking from his cup.

  “You could say that. Why?”

  “This story you're working on. It could hurt his uncle. Does he know about it?”

  Her blissful mood vanish
ed at the mention of Ike Batiste. “Of course not.”

  “I hear Jason is complaining long and hard that you aren't moving fast enough on it. If he finds out that you and Hilliard are involved, it could be trouble for your career,” Earl said.

  Michelle glowered at him.” Who do you think you are questioning my professional integrity?

  “No I'm not.”

  “Yes you are! Do you think I would compromise a story?”

  “We've been colleagues long enough for you to know how I feel about you,” Earl replied in a composed voice. “Calm down. I'm trying to tell you how Jason could use this to hurt you.”

  “Oh come on, Earl.”

  “Stop and think. You and I both know he wouldn't hesitate to use this as a way to get you off the story, even question your credibility in general.” Earl studied her for several seconds as what he was saying sunk in.

  Michelle breathed deeply. “Sorry. You're right. But I've thought about that. I started working on reports about problems with public housing long before Anthony and I started seeing each other again for one thing. Plus, dozens of people know what Ike Batiste did to my family. No one would believe I'd go easy on him.”

  “Can you be objective though? Before you answer think about the worst case scenario. Batiste is in it up to his neck, you break the story and indictments are handed down. Could you go forward knowing it will hurt someone you care deeply about?”

  “That would be tough, Earl. I'd be lying if I said otherwise. But knowing Anthony as I do, I honestly don't think he could support his uncle if it were proven he's harming people who can't defend themselves.”

  “Maybe not.” Earl placed a hand on her shoulder. “Any way, step carefully on this one.

  Michelle mulled over their conversation after he left. Earl put her worst fears into words. Despite her confident speech to him, Michelle was unsure of herself. Earl had said nothing she had not said to herself dozens of times in the last weeks. It was the reason she held back from giving in to her passion for so long. The nagging voice in her head had been stilled only to have Earl wake it up again.

  Gracie came back and plopped down in her chair. “Damn machine. More temperamental than movie star. Now where were we?”She noticed Michelle's grave expression. “Say, the glow is gone. Don't tell me in the few minutes I was out of the room you two had your first fight?”

  “No, I haven't talked to Anthony.”

  “Then what?”

  “Anthony's uncle does business with the Housing Authority. He may be involved in some dubious transactions.”

  “So what? Listen, a reporter has to be cautious sure, but we can't shape our whole lives around this job. Life isn't that simple. It's damn complicated in fact.”

  “Tell me about it,” Michelle said.

  “So do what you gotta do, champ. Go after the story. Nail whoever is dirty, and break it to your man gently an hour before the big story hits. One hour, no more.”

  “What if he reacts badly?”

  Gracie shook her head. “Honey, I didn't say it would be easy.”

  Michelle felt a cold, hard knot form in the pit of her stomach. “Just once I wish something could be.”

  ***

  Thomas sat brooding in front of the fireplace in his huge den. The big screen television, sound turned down so that it was barely audible, played in the background. Thomas ignored the football game, staring instead into the flames. A tall glass of dark beer rested on his knee. When Annette came into the room, he did not speak or acknowledge her.

  “How monotonous. Grown men crashing into each other for three and a half hours.” She made a great show of changing the station in a bid for attention. Annette looked at him sideways. “You don't mind do you?”

  “No.” Thomas still did not move.

  “Good.” Annette fiddled with the remote for several long minutes glancing at him from time to time.”You've been home for all of two hours now. I mean waking hours, of course. Sleeping doesn't count. Are you well?”

  “Yes.”

  “Just wondering. You seem not to be your usual vivacious self.”Annette snickered into the tumbler she brought to her lips. She gulped a mouth full of its contents. “What gives?”

  “I really don't want to get into it with you, Annette.”

  “Maybe I can help. Wow, I must be drinking too much to say that.” She laughed as she held up the glass. “Come on, tell me.” On less than steady legs, she crossed the room to sit beside him on the loveseat.

  “Dominic has a job.”

  “That's what you wanted, so what's the problem?”Annette drank again.

  “With Batiste.”

  “Oh. Well, so what? You wouldn't give him a job or any money. You told him to stand on his own. So he did what you told him to do.”

  “Typical.”

  “What does that mean?”

  “Dominic goes to work for a crook like Batiste, a man who stabbed me in the back, out of spite. And you see nothing wrong with it.”

  “What happened was as much your fault as it was Ike's. You even said so at the time.”Annette got up to refill her glass.

  “Even knowing his reputation as a scam artist, I was gullible enough to think we could do business together.” Thomas spoke in a voice raspy with anger. “Little did I know how badly he wanted to bring me down. You never said a word, did you?”

  “This was years ago. Why keep raking it up?”

  “Ike Batiste tried to ruin me because you left him to marry me. Well, he needn't have bothered. I got my punishment for it all right. You.”

  “I love you too, sweetheart.”Annette held up her drink in a mock toast.

  “You and your friends must have had a good laugh over how you made a fool of me.”Thomas stared at her hard causing her to turn away.

  “That isn't true. How many times do I have to say it? How many years before we put it behind us?”Annette slumped into a leather chair. “God, I'm so tired.”

  “Months of lying, sneaking to hotels. Then he dumps you like a piece of trash. Without missing a beat, you come home to play the loving young wife. I still remember that romantic weekend you pleaded for. We went to Houston, and left the kids with your mother. Eight months later, Dominic is born.”

  “Stop it, Tommy.”Annette covered her face.

  “He patiently waited five years before he cleverly orchestrated my humiliation. Once again, I played the fool. Accepted a contract from him. He nearly succeeded in destroying the business my grandfather built from nothing, but he made sure I know about your affair.” Thomas stood over her, his voice steely with bitterness. “I'll never forget how he smiled when he told me the exact day you'd gone back to his bed.”

  “Please stop it!”Annette jumped up to leave.

  Thomas clenched her arm dragging her back. “But I stayed. I stayed because I couldn't bear the thought of leaving my children alone with you.”

  “They're gone now so why are you still here?”Annette wiped her face with the back of her hand.

  “Because I'll be damned if I see you get half of what I've got now. I worked too hard to get where I am.” His eyes raked her with a contemptuous glare. “Like the song says, It's cheaper to keep her.” He released his hold letting her fall back into the chair.

  “You're crazy.”Annette shrank into the cushions in a vain attempt to escape his cruel words.

  Thomas stood over her. “Maybe so. But I don't intend to go anywhere. Somehow I'm going to find a way to knock some sense into Dominic before he’s turns into a crook just like... “ Thomas bit off the words.

  Annette’s defiance flared back when she saw his expression, a combination of pain and anger.”Just like who, Tommy? I dare you to say it,” she hissed.

  Thomas strode from the room.

  “It isn’t true. Why won’t you believe me?” she screamed after him. “Thomas!”

  Chapter 7

  “Screw the District Attorney.” Ike Batiste reared back in the expensive leather captain's chair behind his desk. Pro
pping an ankle on one knee, he puffed on a cigar.

  “I don't know, Ike. This time they say he's on to something. Word is out.”James Bridges blinked in the cloud of smoke enveloping them.

  “Ike's right, James. Connely has been sniffing around for years trying to get something on us,” Buster Wilson said. His title of property manager did not begin to describe the varied tasks he was assigned. Having worked for Ike for twenty years, he handled those few delicate duties Ike trusted to no one else.

  “But I hear he's been looking through invoices and work orders. Even records of rents collected over a four year period.”Bridges twisted his gold tie pin nervously.

  “So what? He's done that before, too. Listen, there ain't no way he can find anything.” Ike waved dismissively.

  “You got Charlotte under control, right?”Buster cocked an eyebrow at Bridges.

  “Sure. She knows what to do, but I still don't like it. We ought to do something about those ex-cons. Charlotte is even getting scared to say anything to them.”

  “I took care of that.”Buster nodded.

  “How?”

  “Let's just say Buster had a little heart to heart with the maintenance supervisor. He knows what to do with those men that can't get with the program.” Ike smiled wickedly.

  “He'll stop the drug dealing and strong arm tactics I hope.” Bridges tugged at his collar.

  “Bridges, be real. That stuff has been goin’ on in the projects for years. Nah, Mason will keep it at an acceptable level so as not to unduly attract police attention. Long as it doesn't spill into the middle-class parts of town or make the news too regular, they would just as soon stay out of there.” Buster brushed lint from his cashmere jacket.

  “And you think the DA won't be able to come up with anything?” Bridges turned hopeful eyes to Ike.

  “I'm tellin’ you, man, relax. It's gonna end up like always: after a few months he'll be buried under a lot of facts that don't add up to anything.”Ike sat forward.”Now what about this new contract? Charlotte tells me the feds are sending some money down to renovate old houses.”