One Love Read online

  “Right,” Lanessa replied. “If I start messing with men like Metoyer and Dawson, I’d better know what I’m talking about.”

  “I can get over him,” Yasmin said. “Charles may be scum, but he’s powerful scum. Let it go.”

  Jackie leaned back against the sofa back. “Good point. He’s among a group of people who can be very bad enemies in this town. Hell, in this state even.”

  “He’s not worth it. You both said so. Lanessa, are you listening to me? Forget about Charles.” Yasmin shook her arm. She had a worried look in her light brown eyes.

  Lanessa grew more certain the more she thought. “I’ve got a nasty feeling I’m being used. And I don’t like it one bit.”

  “Lanessa…” Yasmin tightened her hold. “Don’t go on a crusade because of me.”

  “Charles and Dawson are into something big. They could be plotting some kind of plant that will hurt the folks in Des Allemands. I’m going to find out.” Lanessa looked at them “Well?”

  “You know I’m ready,” Jackie said immediately.

  Yasmin sighed. “Seeing Charles pay would be nice.”

  “I won’t involve y’all too much.” Lanessa held up a palm to cut off their protests. “Let’s be practical. Too many questions from Jackie would look odd. Yasmin, he’d know fast if you start snooping around.”

  “Be real careful,” Yasmin said.

  “Watch your back twenty-four seven,” Jackie added.

  “I worked in state government, remember? Watching your back was in the personnel manual.” Lanessa’s mind was not on any possible risk. She was already thinking of where she would start. “I’m going to find out more about Franklin Enterprises. It just might lead me exactly down the right trail.”

  After a few more words of comfort to Yasmin, Lanessa headed to her office. After glancing at the clock in her dashboard, she decided she had time. Maybe she would be a bit late, but she’d call Alex. Her mind turned back to the riddle of where Franklin Enterprises fit in with the rest of the bits and pieces she knew. The urge to follow this new clue was like a fever. The fifteen minute drive was a blur. Once at her office, Lanessa plunged into maze of corporations, annual reports and Internet document archives. She became totally absorbed. To most people this would be tedious. Yet as she read and followed links along a trail, she felt exhilarated by the chase. This was not going to be an easy, straightforward search.

  “But I’m gonna get ya, guys,” Lanessa muttered to herself. There was other sound except the clicking of the keyboard keys. “You can run, but you can’t hide.”

  ***

  “Daddy, let’s go. Ms. Lanessa is too late,” Tia whined.

  “Yeah, why are we waiting for her again?” Nia said.

  “Our discount to the aquarium is for a family of four. Didn’t you tell her that?” Tia put both hands on her slim hips.

  “She probably had some important work to do.” Alex did not look at either of them as he spoke.

  “On a Saturday?” Nia wore a frown.

  “Not even Granddaddy works three Saturdays in a row,” Tia raised an eyebrow at her sister.

  “Yes, and he runs a gigantic company.” Nia spread her arms wide in imitation of his father.

  He ground his teeth together. Once again he was making excuses for Lanessa. She’d promised to be here. It was over an hour past the time she was to meet them at his house. They were to go see a new exhibit on the Louisiana gulf coast habitat. Nia and Tia were excited when Lanessa brought a picture book by C. C. Lockwood. Lanessa charmed them into forgiving her for missing two other outings. Yet soon they would stop trusting her. Alex wondered what had come first this time.

  “Let’s go my two queens in training.” Alex forced a light tone to his voice. He bowed as part of the game he’d played with them for years.

  “But the discount,” Tia protested. She sounded as practical as her mother. She picked up her small round leather purse.

  Nia cast a conspiratorial glance at her sister before speaking. “Maybe Miss Karin can come. I remember her phone number.” She wore the ghost of a sly smile look at Tia’s wide-eyed reaction to her impertinent suggestion.

  “I don’t think so,” Alex said in a dry voice. He picked up his car keys. “Let’s go.”

  Queens indeed! Each day he saw more clearly the women they would become. Both would be a real handful as adolescents. Alex followed them to his car. He wondered if he should try to call Lanessa on her cellular phone. Maybe something was wrong. No, he was not going to run after her. She should have called by now. Well forget her. They would have a good time on their own. He chattered with the girls about marine life and ecosystems. The ride to New Orleans did not take long. The girls were enchanted with every moment, including the ride through the French Quarter. Once inside the Aquarium of the Americas, they raced from one display to another. They were delighted by everything, even exhibits they’d seen at least three times before. In typical childhood fashion, the irritation with Lanessa earlier was forgotten. Yet behind his smile, Alex stewed about her absence for the rest of the day. No explanation short of a family crisis, and it had better be a big one, would be good enough. Alex ground his teeth again. He and Lanessa had would have to have a serious talk.

  Chapter 13

  It was after seven in the evening when Alex parked the Montero Sport in his garage. Tia and Nia were tired but happy. They still sang songs though the lyrics were interspersed with yawns. He gazed at them lovingly. Maybe tonight there would be no arguments about bedtime. Once inside the house, the girls selected a video to watch. Alex put their souvenirs from the aquarium in their bedroom. He straightened the stuffed toys and hung up small shirts tossed about. When the doorbell rang he was in the laundry room putting clothes in the washer.

  “I’ll get it,” Tia shouted. Seconds later there was the sound of her stocking feet slapping against the hardwood floor.

  “Don’t run in the house. And don’t open the door unless you recognize who it is,” Alex called back.

  Tia met Alex entered the kitchen from the laundry room. “Daddy, it’s Miss Lanessa,” she whispered. Her eyes were bright with anticipation. “She’s in the living room waiting for you.”

  “There’s no need to whisper, Tia.” Alex combed his hair with his fingers. “Now go back to the den and watch the movie.”

  “I could bring you some iced tea or cola.” Tia assumed an innocent expression.

  “How thoughtful, but no. You girls shouldn’t interrupt your fun because of me.” He gave her a knowing father look. “So go on.”

  Tia’s face showed her disappointment. “Alright.” She walked off but kept glancing back over her shoulder.

  Alex stood for several moments. He had not thought through what he would say to Lanessa. All day his anger had simmered. The last thing he wanted was an emotional scene. They’d had more than enough of those in the past.

  “Might as well face it,” he mumbled to himself. When he walked in the living room, Lanessa sprang from the sofa.

  “Hi.” Lanessa wore a tentative smile.

  “Hi.” Alex did not smile back at her.

  “Listen, I’m really sorry. After I left Jackie’s I made the big mistake of going to the office. Yasmin gave me important information about Paxton-Waite.”

  “Okay.”

  “I mean really important information. It was still early enough that I thought I had time. Well you know how it is when you get online. Before you know it a couple of hours have gone by.” Lanessa spoke in a rush as she watched his expression.

  “Uh-huh.” His simmering anger began to boil. She was so glib. Their outing had been a distant third on her list.

  “Yasmin took the news about Charles pretty hard but I think she’ll be okay. It was two-thirty before I knew it.” Lanessa walked close to him. “But I really am sorry.”

  “Oh I believe you, Lanessa,” Alex said sharply. “Every time you say it, I believe.”

  She twisted her hands together. “I don’t blame you f
or being mad. Tell you what; let’s do something extra special tomorrow. Our own Sunday fun day. What about it, baby?”

  “Sure. Why not? Let’s just pretend.” Alex stared past her.

  “What do you mean?” Lanessa said in a muted tone.

  Alex looked at her. “You what I mean.”

  She was silent for several seconds as though his words had stunned her. “You’re overreacting.”

  “Is that right?” Alex snapped.

  “I know you and the kids are upset that I’ve missed a few outings.” Lanessa sounded conciliatory.

  “The girls can’t get to know you if you’re never around, Lanessa.” Alex paced in front of her. “We can’t build a life together only when you can pencil us into your schedule.”

  Lanessa grabbed his arm. “I’m not putting other things ahead of you or the girls. It’s just—”

  “There’s always a ‘but’ when you’re telling me how important we are.” Alex took a deep breath and let it out. He sat down on the sofa.

  “But you know how it is. Owning a business is tough, especially for a black woman. I’ve got to fight for a piece of the action.” Lanessa sat next to him. She still held his arm.

  “Yes, I know.” Alex understood very well what she faced.

  Lanessa moved closer to him. “Honey, I’ve got to spend extra time. It’s the only way I can make Info, Inc. succeed.”

  “I know that, too.” Alex sat straight staring ahead.

  “Now I hear a ‘but’.” Lanessa let go of his arm.

  “I don’t think you understand. These few outings as you call them are a lot more. You’re missing valuable time with the girls.” Alex tried to put into words what that meant. “We’re building memories, our bonds as a family.”

  “I do understand, but—” Lanessa cut off her own response at the look he gave her. “Okay, okay. I already apologized to the twins when I came in. Starting tonight I’m going to do better.”

  Alex was not satisfied with her easy answer. “I think we need to take time out to really consider what’s happening here.”

  “Time out? I’ve been bad girl so you’re punishing me?” Lanessa stood up.

  “We keep pulling in opposite directions.” Alex was no longer angry. He wanted to give their relationship a clear, realistic examination. “A quick apology and another promise won’t do.”

  “I should be understanding, but that doesn’t apply to you.” Lanessa pointed a finger at him.

  “Let’s not get into an argument.” Alex could see she was now the angry one. “Believe me; I know what you’re going through. I had to make a lot of sacrifices career wise for my family.”

  “And I’m used to being selfish. Thank you Saint Alex,” Lanessa retorted.

  “I didn’t mean—” Alex shook his head. “Forget it.”

  “I busted ass to get where I am. You could be a bit more supportive of what I’m trying to do.” Lanessa jumped from the sofa to face him.

  “I have been, Lanessa. But it’s all one way. I’ve gone to the parties and explained your no-shows to the kids. But do you really have to do it all? Like today, you didn’t have to go to your office!” Alex tossed back at her.

  “I lost track of time for goodness sakes! And yes, I did need at least a few minutes at the office.”

  Alex crossed his arms. “When did you go to your office? I’ll bet it was already after the time we were supposed to meet.” Alex answered the question before she could speak.

  “I made a stupid mistake and didn’t watch the clock. I’m sorry. But this information was critical,” Lanessa said. She seemed frustrated that he did not see her point of view.

  “Critical information.” Alex repeated her words in a flat voice.

  “Yes, very critical.” Lanessa wore a determined look.

  Alex was furious now. “I didn’t realize being with me and my daughters was such a small thing compared to your business.

  “Aw c’mon. You’re being melodramatic.”

  “You don’t get it, do you?” Alex could not help it. His voice rose in anger. “I thought you had grown up!”

  “I’ve made a lot of compromises in the past few months. All you do is complain when you don’t get your own way!” Lanessa yelled.

  “This isn’t just about me, Lanessa. I thought you wanted to be apart of my life. And right now that means family.”

  “I’ve done a lot to reach out to you and your children. But you haven’t done much to support me. All I have to do is mention Info, Inc. and you get this look” Lanessa wore an angry frown.

  “You’re trying to cloud the real issue.”

  “Which is?”

  “You want it both ways. Me dangling on a string waiting for you and the high life!” Alex spoke with a fierce resentment that had festered for some time.

  “Don’t’ flatter yourself!” Lanessa said in a voice that rang with scorn.

  “Enjoy your hot career running with the big dogs and the social life that goes with it,” Alex shouted. “Because at the end of the day, it’ll be all you’ve got.”

  “At least I won’t have anyone giving nagging day in and day out!” Lanessa brushed back her hair. “And don’t think I’ll be sitting by the phone waiting for you to call either.”

  “Well hello. The real Lanessa Thomas just showed up!” Alex turned his back on her and found the twins standing in the door. Their eyes were wide.

  “Daddy, we can’t find the p-popcorn,” Nia stammered.

  “Are you okay?” Tia seemed on the verge of tears.

  The anger drained from him at the expression on Tia’s little face. “Sure, baby. Everything is fine,” he said in a normal tone. He crossed to her in three long strides and picked her up.

  “Why are you and Miss Lanessa yelling at each other?” Tia pressed her face against his chest.

  “They’re fighting, dumb bunny. Don’t be such a baby,” Nia said with scorn. She gazed at Lanessa with a harsh look. “Miss Karin didn’t yell.”

  “Perfect! Just perfect!” Lanessa mumbled.

  “Lanessa, wait here.” Alex said in a curt tone. He led the girls down the hall and back to the den. “Now don’t get upset. Adults sometimes argue. Just like you two get into little fusses sometimes. Okay?”

  “’Kay.” Tia nodded but still looked a bit unsure.

  “Sounds like more than a little fuss to me. I—” Nia said.

  “Nia, that’s enough.” Alex gave her a stern look. “Now go on, sweeties. I’ll be back with hot buttered popcorn in a few minutes.”

  “But what about Miss Lanessa?” Nia’s dark eyebrows were arched.

  “Miss Lanessa will be leaving in a bit,” he said. He gave them both a playful pinch on the cheek.

  He made sure they were seated in front of the television and had the movie going again before leaving. When he entered the living room, Lanessa stood with her purse in her hand.

  “Coming over here tonight was a gigantic mistake. I should have known you’d be irritated and irrational.” Lanessa slung the strap across one shoulder.

  Alex pushed down the reflex to fire back a sharp response. “Lanessa, we need to talk more but not now.”

  “Tonight, tomorrow, it doesn’t matter. Unless I just give in and do whatever you want we’ll be right back here again.” Lanessa would not meet his gaze.

  “What are you trying to say?” Alex felt a lump in his stomach.

  “For weeks we’ve barely avoided a nasty, loud argument.” Lanessa finally looked up at him.

  “We need to talk we’ve both calmed down.” Alex’s anger drained away and was replaced with a hollow feeling.

  “You know I’m right. It’s all over your face.” Lanessa closed her eyes for a moment. When she looked at him again, there was sadness in them. “Goodbye.”

  Alex took her hand as she walked past him to the door. “I’ll call you.”

  “Yeah, sure.”

  He walked with her to the door. Neither spoke again. Lanessa got into her Chrysler Concord an
d drove away. Alex wanted to call her back, to say something that would change things. Yet there was nothing more to say. He watched the red taillights moved off into the night.

  ***

  “I’ll bet Yvonne is behind it.” Clarice pressed her lips together.

  She stood in her kitchen with both hands on her hips. Lanessa had come over for a short visit and ended up telling her about Alex.

  “Mother, please. I really don’t want to talk about it.” Lanessa rubbed her temples. She had the same headache the last two days. “Do you have anything extra strength for a headache?”

  “Humph, nothing in a bottle will cure what ails you. Go tell that man you’re sorry. Tell him he was right and you were wrong.” Despite her words Clarice handed her a plastic container of Excedrin.

  “Wonderful advice. Give up my self-respect, my work. Do whatever it takes to keep a man.” Lanessa paused to take the tablets. She drank water to wash them down.

  “You’re overlooking one small detail, darling child of mine.” Clarice sat next to her at the kitchen table.

  “Really?”

  “Yes. You’re wrong!” Clarice gave a sharp nod like an army sergeant.

  “Just what I needed today,” Lanessa mumbled.

  Lanessa had spent another sleepless night. The argument with Alex kept playing in her head. It was as though an evil gremlin kept putting on the same tape recording again and again. What could she have said differently? She swung between certainty that she’d been right and the depressing conclusion that she’d been at fault. One minute she would be on the verge of calling him to beg his forgiveness. The next minute she defiantly declared they were better off apart. It was no surprise she had a monster pain that went from the base of her neck to just above her eyes.

  “I came over here for a little comfort.” Lanessa cast an irritated and hurt glance at Clarice. “This is what I get.”

  “Clarice instantly went into mother hen mode. She gathered Lanessa up in her arms. “Baby, Mama is just trying to help you.” She kissed the top of her head gently.

  “Then bake some of those chocolate chip oatmeal cookies with walnuts.” Lanessa sniffed. “I love those things.”