EPISODE FOUR
Written By Aaron D. Mullins
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Previously On Autumn Lake:
SCENE ONE: Scarsdale Park It was a chilly night along the lakeshore, and Wendy pulled her sweater tighter around her shoulders. She and Jason were walking along the water, a comfortable silence between them. They had met at Tarantula an hour before and were both shocked to realize that they had actually met earlier that afternoon when Nicky spilled his juice all over Jason. Jason had coffee and Wendy had a bottle of water, and they found that their conversation flowed naturally, just as it had online. When the mall closed, Jason asked Wendy to join him for a walk under the stars. Under normal circumstances, Wendy would be horrified to be near the waterfront with a relative stranger. But Jason made her feel so safe and comfortable. “It's such a beautiful night,” Jason said, gazing skyward. “No clouds, beautiful starry sky.” “It certainly is. I love nights like this.” “Me too.” A brisk wind swept over them momentarily, carrying with it the scents of autumn. “This was a good idea, I’m glad you suggested it.” Jason smiled playfully. “Which, the walk or to meet?” “Both. You’re everything I imagined you would be.” “Back at you.” She blushed. “You don't have to say that.” “Why not? It's true.” “I'm nothing special.” She regretted the statement instantly, realizing it sounded like she was fishing for a compliment. “I disagree. And I bet little Nicky would too.” Wendy smiled slightly and nodded her thanks for the compliment. “I know it's late, but I wish you had brought him with you.” “I almost did,” she laughed. “But I was saved at the last moment by a guardian angel of sorts. Besides, I love my son, but he’s not someone I’d like to bring on a first date if I don’t have to.” “Is that what this is?” His playful smile made her blush again. “I'm sorry. I shouldn't have assumed that. “ “No, I think I'm glad you said it. I'd like to think of it as a date.” He stumbled slightly, giving a nervous laugh as he regained his balance. “I guess I’m still a bit shaky about this.” “You are?” She scoffed. “Please, I am so afraid to say the wrong thing.” “You couldn't do that if you tried.” “Oh, don’t be so sure… I have plenty of experience in that particular area.” “Don't worry so much.” He guided her gently toward a bench overlooking the placid water. “Here, let's sit.” Making themselves comfortable on the old bench, they took in the sights and sounds of the early evening. Across the water, the lights of downtown glistened. Dominating the skyline was the enormous Drummond Tower. Wendy remembered once when she was five, her parents brought her to Autumn Lake to visit Diana and Will. They took her on a tour of the Tower. Wendy had stood on the sidewalk and craned her neck to see the top. It looked like the top of the tower has disappeared in the clouds. Wendy had been afraid to go to the top, fearing that there were monstrous Cloud People up there. A smile crossed her face now, as she remembered. But there was still something so powerful and intimidating about that building. “What are you thinking about?” Jason whispered. “A silly nightmare I had as a child.” “Really? What was it about?” “Monster cloud people!” She laughed at the concept and noticed his eyes sparkling in the dark. “How about you? What was your worst nightmare when you were little?” He considered the question for a moment and then snapped his fingers. “It’s horrible, but I'd have to say… my grandfather.” “Really?” “Yeah, he was this huge bear of a man. Well, at least he was compared to little old me. And he had this loud, booming voice. Deep down, he was a pussycat, but I remember having awful nightmares where he ruled this huge kingdom and he squashed all the little people that were in the kingdom. Which, I suppose is ironic.” “How so?” “The business he was in was very... hey did you hear that?” She followed his gaze along the lamp lit streets and listened intently. “No… what was it?” “Sounded like violins.” “Oh, that's probably coming from the other side of the park.” Seeing his confusion, she explained. “This time of year there's this traveling trio that sets up in the park, usually by the fountain. They just play romantic melodies for passersby.” Jason nodded slowly, a sly grin crossing his face. “Oh, this is too perfect, come on.” Reaching for her hand, he jumped to his feet “What? Where are you going?” “To find this alleged trio. I'd like to dance with you under the stars.” “Oh, Jason, I…” “Don't tell me you can't dance.” She was about to reply when he pulled her to her feet and wrapped his arms around her waist. She felt the strength in his arms and the motion brought her close enough to smell his aftershave. The scent was musky, masculine. It filled her nostrils and she instinctively breathed deeply. “I guess that means I’ll just have to lead,” Jason whispered, his eyes locked on hers. A few moments later, they joined a handful of other couples in front of the fountain. Despite the chilly weather, the air was still and the setting was like something from a storybook. Wendy felt like she fit Jason's arms perfectly. She felt a little self-conscious, having only worn jeans and a sweater, but Jason made her feel like she was the most beautiful woman in the world. “Jason, can I ask you a question?” “Shoot.” “What was it that made you keep chatting with me all this time?” He thought about her question for a moment. “I think it was your honesty and sincerity.” “Really? How so?” “Well… you know that things have been difficult for me this past year. I told you about the death of my fiancée and how... well, I kind of closed off a bit after that.” “Yes,” Wendy said, gently stroking his cheek. “I remember feeling drawn to you because you seemed to understand the… loneliness that I was also experiencing.” “Right,” he nodded. “And I think that was it. During that period, I spent a lot of time on the internet. Fortunately, I have a job that enables me to do a lot of my work at home, but even though I didn’t feel quite up to facing the world, I still needed people to talk to. There’s so much… falseness about the internet. People pretending to be something they’re not, escaping into a world of shadows and anonymity. I don’t know, maybe that’s what I was doing, too. But then I met you, and it just seemed like you were real… a genuine person, with a really friendly, understanding attitude.” Chuckling, he asked, “Do you remember how we first ‘met’ online?” “Yes, of course. I asked you what was the significance of the ‘90’ in your screen name, ‘Jason90.’” “Exactly! It seemed like such an innocent question, but you were the very first person who didn't ask me first what I looked like, what my ‘stats’ were or if I wanted to ‘hook up.’” “How depressing! Is it really that bad?” “Sometimes. But you were just so friendly and honest, even when you were guarded.” Wendy sensed that he was going to steer the conversation back toward her, a topic she was still not totally comfortable discussing. “Well, you were guarded too, mister,” she deflected. “For instance, I still don't know where you work or what your full name is.” “Guess that makes us even, then, huh?” He gave her a friendly wink. “There is something I want to ask you, though, and it's kind of personal. If you don't want to answer, I’ll understand.” “Okay.” She felt her heart began to beat slightly faster, anticipating hundreds of different questions. “Where's Nicky's father?” Wendy tried not to wince, as this was not one of the questions she had considered preparing an answer for (although, in retrospect, she realized that she probably should have.) She chose her words carefully. “He didn’t stick around.” Jason seemed to pick up her hesitance to discuss the matter further, at least right now, and nodded. “Fair enough. I’m sorry to hear that, at any rate.” “Things happen,” she said with a shrug. “Okay, my turn.” “Oh boy,” he sighed playfully. “Try and make it painless.” “What kind of work do you do?” He seemed relieved. “Actually that’s one of my favorite things to talk about because it’s so important. I run a human services foundation. It provides loans and assistance to lots of different charities.” “My gosh,” Wendy gasped, her mouth slightly agape. “You run it?” “Yes.” He took a deep breath and met her gaze. “Listen, I feel really comfortable with you and I don't like tap-dancing around our lives. What do you say we put our cards on the table.” She felt a slight tightening in her stomach as she considered his suggestion. There were many ghosts that Wendy wanted kept hidden, at least for now, but she could sense that her honesty was important to him. Strangely enough, she felt it was very important to trust this man. “Okay. You're right, what do we have to lose?” She hoped he didn’t sense the sarcasm in her tone. “Okay. Here goes. My full name is Jason Marshak. I run the Drummond Foundation for my family's company...” “Drummond Enterprises...” she finished, her voice a tight whisper. The Cloud Monsters. “Yes.” Wendy stopped dancing, swallowing hard. “Oh my god. You're a Drummond?” “Well, a Marshak, really,” he said. “My mother's a Drummond.” “And the grandfather that you were so afraid of was J.D. Drummond?” “You've heard of him?” he asked, though it sounded more like a statement. “Heard of him?” Wendy exclaimed. “My god, Jason, he was on the cover of Time Magazine twice. Everyone knows who J.D. Drummond is.” She began walking toward a nearby bench, rubbing her temples. “Why are you pulling away from me?” “I... I don't know.” “Then don't.” He placed his hands on her shoulders. “Listen, do you have something against my family? God knows enough people do…” “No... it's just... Okay, cards on the table, right?” “Right.” “My name is Wendy Harris. I manage the Gypsy Grille, over on Third Street.” He smiled brightly. “No way! I love that place! I haven’t been there often, recently, but it’s a great place.” “Yes, but it's never been covered by a national magazine.” “I don't follow.” “You're a Drummond, Jason! And me, I'm...” “A Harris,” he repeated. “So? Is there some great Drummond/Harris feud that no one has told me about?" She couldn’t help but laugh at this. “No, no, it’s not that. It’s just…” “Wait a minute,” he said, snapping his fingers. “Are you related to Diana Harris?” “Yes, she's my aunt.” “Well, there you go! She's my mother's best friend! See, it was fate that we meet.” “Well, maybe, but…” she stammered. “I don’t have the same… pedigree that my aunt does.” “What do you mean? I don't get it.” “Do I have to spell it out for you?” “Apparently, because I’m just not seeing your point.” “Jason, I'm nothing compared to you. I don't have money. Hell, I can barely pay the rent, buy food for my son and still have enough to order a pizza every now and then. We don't move in the same circles, Jason.” “That's ridiculous, Wendy!” He grew flushed and she wasn’t sure if he was offended, angry or both. “What's changed? Do you think I’m a snob?” “No, of course not. I think you’re fantastic. Too fantastic.” “That's a bad thing?” He softened slightly, his eyes resuming their ever-present sparkle. “I think you’re fantastic, too.” “Look, I... This is coming out all wrong.” She sighed deeply and began walking away along the path leading out of the park. “Then stop trying,” he said, matching her stride. “You are not ‘beneath’ me, Wendy, if that's what you think. I’m not ashamed of you, where you come from or who you are. My God, after everything I’ve told you… about Rebecca’s death, my depression… I’d say you were a kindred spirit!” “That's sweet, but...” “No buts!” He said, grabbing her arm to stop her. “Listen to me! It would be a horrible thing if we couldn't give this a shot. If you blew it off because of something as petty as my last name…” “You don’t understand, Jason… I’m so afraid that…” He pulled her into an embrace, cutting off her statement. “You have nothing to be afraid of, Wendy. I won't hurt you. I just want to get to know you better. I want to learn more about the beautiful woman who's soul reached out to me over a computer line.” He gently drew her into a kiss. She was hesitant at first, but found herself powerless to deny the sheer passion of the moment. She couldn't resist him, even though her deeper instincts were screaming that she should just turn and run away. If Jason were anyone else, there might be a chance that he’d understand her fears. But as a Drummond, a member of one of the world’s most powerful families, a family that was always in the media, not just in Autumn Lake, but around the world… well, there’s no way he could handle the truth of who Wendy Harris really was. No way at all. SCENE TWO – Gypsy Grille Diana turned the last of the chairs upside down and looked over the now empty serving area of The Gypsy. It had been a long time since she worked the floor, and it felt good to stay busy and keep her mind off of things. She checked her watch. It was almost 10:30. She had called Olivia at about eight and asked her to come to the Gypsy for drinks. She still hadn't arrived or called. Just then, there was a knock at the entrance. “We're closed!” Diana barked, trying to sound irritable, but failing miserably. “Di, it's me! It's O!” Diana recognized the voice of her best friend and rushed to open the door. “O! It's so good to see you!” They embraced, laughing like schoolgirls when Diana noticed that Olivia was holding a bottle. “Is that what I think it is?” “Fresh from Daddy's wine cellar!” “Only the best!” “Of course!” A few moments later, they were sharing the bottle of fine wine and laughing. “I can't believe how much I've missed you, O.” “I can't believe you went this long without calling me! When you called from the plane, I half expected it to be a practical joke.” Diana’s eyes darkened for a brief second, but she covered by swallowing the last drops of wine from her glass. “Yeah, I've been really awful about that, I'm sorry.” “Hey, you had a lot on your plate,” Olivia said, giving her hand an understanding squeeze. “The important thing is that you're here. I’m really sorry I’m so late!” “What happened?” “Work happened. As you know, I’ve been pretty much running Drummond by myself since Daddy… got sick.” “I’m sorry to hear about that, by the way,” Diana said. “I always liked J.D. and it’s a shame to hear he’s not doing so well.” Olivia nodded. “He asks about you from time to time, when he’s lucid. Anyway, I’ve been nursing the McClaine Oil account for months now, trying to work a merger.” “Wait a minute… did you say McClaine Oil? As in the Texas McClaines?” “The very same.” “Holy cow… that would be a serious merger, O!” “And, who should call me at 7:30 tonight, just as I'm walking out the door?” “McClaine?” “Oh, it's better than that. His secretary. Seems old man McClaine is in town and he wants to meet with me to finalize things. Tonight.” “What? At this hour?” Olivia nodded, raising her freshly-plucked eyebrow. “One of the first things my father taught me about this business is that it's not a 9-5 job. McClaine's a very busy man, he's got appointments on the coast all day tomorrow. This was the only time he could make it. So, I'm afraid, I have to make our visit short.” “Where are you meeting him?” “Only place I could think of was my office.” “Nonsense! Why not meet him here?” “What?” “Seriously. I’ve seen Malcolm McClaine on television. He's a Good Old Boy, not a Suit. He's also cranky as a cuss, pushing, what? Seventy? I can fry up some chicken and you guys can finalize things over there in the corner booth.” “Really, Di, I don't want to put you out.” “Oh just say it... It's a perfect idea.” “Well..." Olivia looked around the restaurant for a moment, a look of mild disapproval marring her otherwise pristine patrician features. "I suppose it would be... appropriate for someone like McClaine." “Exactly. You know you can count on me.” “Okay, let me just call his service and let him know to meet me here, then.” “Sounds like a plan.” As Olivia reached into her bag for her cell phone, Diana took the opportunity to head for the kitchen to prepare the chicken. Just as she was about to push the swinging door that led to the galley, Olivia called out. “Di… I’m sorry, this is terribly rude. I could tell from the sound of your voice that you had something on your mind that you wanted to chat about tonight. Are you sure this is okay with you?” Diana forced a smile to her lips and was grateful that she was far enough away that O wouldn’t be able to see through the false expression. “I do want to talk to you, but it can wait. Really.” “You’re a true friend, Di.” “Thanks.” SCENE THREE – The Lighthouse Alicia Sinclair checked her lipstick one more time, then slid the compact back into her purse. Inside the Lighthouse, the thumping techno music made the walls shake. Alicia gave herself the once over in a wall mirror and decided she looked fabulous. As she entered the club, she waited a few seconds to let her eyes adjust to the low light and then searched out her quarry. He was on the dance floor, as usual, but something was different this time. She was with him. This could be a problem. Pausing only a second to consider her course of action, she finally decided to have a little fun. A wry smile crossed her crimson lips as Alicia slowly danced her way across the floor. Although she stopped every few feet to dance with an anonymous stranger, her eyes never left her target. Finally she made her way over to him, dancing just out of view of his female companion. She playfully winked at him, her seductress façade fading into giggles that were muffled by the music. ********** Kyle Marshak cleared his throat as he spotted Alicia approaching him. Casting a wary glance at Emily, he noticed that she seemed bored. “Em, we can leave if you want to. I know you hate this song.” “No, sweetie, you’re having fun. And I know you love this song.” He leaned closer to her ear, which covered the fact that his eyes were locked on Alicia, a few feet away. “But you’re bored, I can tell.” “Stop it, you love to dance.” “And I love it when you dance with me, but if you’re bored, I don't mind cutting out early.” He smiled slyly at Alicia. “I don't mind at all.” “What about Michael?” “Huh?” She laughed and gently shook him. “Where’s your head tonight, Marshak? Michael Drummond, your cousin? Remember, you finally convinced him to come out and shake off that funk he’s been in.” “Damn, I forgot about that.” “Not that I’m opposed to leaving early if you want to,” she teased, nibbling his ear. “We could head back to my place… curl up in front of the fire…” “Emily!” he gasped. “Are you… are you serious?” “Oh, relax,” she said, laughing. “I’m not about to break that rule… still, a little snuggling, a little kissing… that would be nice.” “Yeah,” Kyle responded, shielding his disappointment in an embrace. Once again his eyes locked on Alicia. “Those things are very nice, but…” “Down boy!” she purred, pulling him close. ********** A few feet away, Alicia could practically taste the desperation coming from Kyle. He was so hers. She played with him for a few seconds longer before blowing him a kiss and making her way to the bar. Ordering a rum and Coke, she deposited herself on a stool, swilling the drink in her hand. She'd have to play this just right for maximum effect. As she sipped on the drink, a tall man in his early thirties approached her. “The name's Max.” She looked through him. “I don't recall asking for it.” “Oh, saucy, I like that.” He gently caressed her hair with a big, calloused finger. “Do you now?” she spat, swatting the finger away. “Well, how nice for you.” Undaunted, the big man pulled out a stool and sat directly in her line of vision. “You, uh…you from around here?” “Close enough not to need to go anywhere with you.” He grinned, and his yellowed teeth reflected off the disco ball. “You have this sexy way of insulting a guy. I like it.” “There are doctors that can help you with that. It's a complex. My sister’s a doctor, she’s told me all about it. I think the medical term is Jerkus Redneckius.” He blinked and she just knew he thought she was being serious. “Look, why don't we can the small talk and hit the road. I got a six pack of Bud and an empty apartment.” This was becoming slightly amusing, so Alicia decided to play along. “Gee, that sounds really incredible, but I think there's an "I Love The Something Or Other" on VH1 tonight that's just a wee bit more appealing.” “Huh?” She rolled her eyes and rose from her stool. “I'm sorry, that was probably too many syllables for you, Bluto. How's this? Get lost.” Watching his face as realization sank in, Alicia found herself laughing as his expression changed from amusement to bewilderment and, finally, to frustration. He walked away, the sound of her laughter following him. “Jeez, and to think I could be closing the Gypsy and making extra money tonight. Like I need this.” She grabbed her tiny purse from the bar and started to walk away when she ran face first into a solid, barrel chest. “The door’s in the other direction.” “Hello, Kyle,” she said, regaining her composure. “Gee, I thought I saw you over there.” A half smile crossed his lips. “You thought. Yeah. Listen, I don't know what you think you're doing, but it needs to stop right now.” “At the present time, I am having a drink, and I'm not quite finished with it yet.” “Then finish it and go.” “I don't know, I’m really feeling like a dance. Care to join me, handsome?” “There are plenty of other clubs, Alicia.” “Yes, but none has the... scenery... that The Lighthouse offers.” She playfully ran a red-nailed finger down the front of his silver shirt. “Stop it,” he said, only half seriously. “You know I can’t do this tonight.” “Ah yes. And where has Suzy Chapstick gone?” “Emily went to the ladies room. She...” “And she looked like she was having such fun, Kyle. I just know how much she loves to dance. Funny, I guess they didn't teach her too many different steps at Bible School, did they?” “Hey,” he snapped, genuinely offended. “Come on, don’t be like that. She doesn’t deserve that from you. Look, I thought we had this all resolved? What happened between you and I is over… it was fun, but it’s over. I love Emily. I want to be with Emily.” “Oh, I remember how badly you wanted to be with her. Is Snow White still hiding the key to her chastity belt?” “Alicia…” “Fine, fine, I surrender. But, you know Kyle, it was fun. And should you ever decide that you need a little more… fun in your life, you know where to find me.” He didn’t respond. “Well… I’ll be off then.” She turned away, quietly mumbling “mission accomplished” when she noticed Emily slipping out of the ladies room. “Alicia!” Emily said, nodding politely at her. “I didn’t know you were coming out tonight.” “Hi! What a cute dress,” she lied. “Thanks. What brings you out?” “Just some unfinished business.” Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Kyle’s jaw tighten. “Well, it's nice to see you again.” Alicia wanted to gag from the saccharine in Emily’s voice. “Kyle,” Emily said, turning toward her boyfriend, “I need to run down to the car, I think I left my lights on.” “Okay, are you coming back?” “Of course.” She kissed him gently on the cheek and nodded goodbye to Alicia. “You gotta do something about those nerves, slugger,” Alicia teased. “If Barbie had eyes, she could see how guilty you look.” “She’s had a hard day, leave her alone.” “Well… if you want to have a hard night, I’ll just be heading back to the Gypsy. I do believe you remember where my room is?” “Good night, Alicia.” “G’night, Kyle.” As Alicia made her way back through the crowd toward the exit, she spotted Emily returning from the parking garage. “How did it go? Were your lights on?” “Thankfully no, but I wasn't sure. Better safe than sorry, I suppose.” “Hmm.” “Well, again, it was nice to see you.” “Emily, wait,” Alicia said, gently grabbing the other woman’s elbow. “There's something I'd like to discuss with you.” SCENE FOUR – The Gypsy Grille Midnight was fast approaching, but still no sign of Malcolm McClaine. Olivia and Diana were almost finished with the wine bottle and were already getting giddy. “Okay, I need to lay off this stuff, I have work to do tonight.” Olivia gently pushed the wine bottle away, inhaling the delicious scents emanating from the kitchen. “If he ever shows up,” Diana quipped. “Yeah, I hope the old geezer didn't die on the way over.” Diana laughed at her friend’s crassness and poured another glass of wine (as she was under no such obligation to stay sober.) “Oh god, did I just say that?” Olivia said. “I am an awful person.” Diana nodded in agreement. “You're going to hell!” “Too late, baby, I already live there.” “Well, at least you're in good company.” Olivia leaned back and rested her head against the leather seat. “So, what’s it like to be back in Autumn Lake after three years?” “This town never changes, you know that. It’s good to see the children again. I missed them all so much. And, I think, they missed me.” Her voice trailed off and her eyes seemed melancholy. Olivia wasn’t sure if it was a genuine emotion brought to the surface due to the alcohol, or something else. Something… deeper. “Give Emily time, Di. She’ll come around.” “I plan to. Nothing is more important to me than my children's happiness. You know all about that.” “Yes. Sometimes I feel like my kids are spread to the four winds, though.” “So… I’m assuming you’ve been in touch with Katie?” The two old friends shared a knowing glance. Olivia nodded tersely. “Yes, she calls when she can.” Clearing her throat, she quickly changed the subject. “It’s Jason and Kyle that occupy most of my thoughts these days. I told you about Jason’s fiancée, right?” “Rebecca,” Diana said solemnly. “Terrible thing. How’s he pulling through?” “Not well, I’m afraid. He’s a shadow of the man he was. Spends most of his time locked up in his apartment on the computer. He prefers handling his work duties via email and conference call… I’m just worried about him.” Diana patted Olivia’s hand gently. “I hope to see him soon. Jason’s always been such a good boy. And Kyle? I didn’t have an opportunity to ask Emily about him.” “Kyle’s… Kyle,” she responded, with a dismissive wave. “Two growing boys,” Diana sighed. “At least I only had to contend with one, and Ross was such a good child.” “They’re hardly boys anymore,” Olivia said. “I keep hoping Jason will shake off his funk and get a little more involved with the company. He still seems hell bent on staying focused on the Foundation.” “That's a bad thing?” “Not at all, he's doing an excellent job. But I just wish he'd show a little more interest in the executive offices.” “Still grooming him for the president's chair I see.” “It's his rightful place.” “And how does Kyle feel about that?” “What do you mean?” “Well, it seems to me that he's always been the one that expressed interest in the company. He's majoring in business at school. Maybe he should be the one you consider?” Olivia was slightly taken aback at the suggestion. “All of my children have a place at Drummond for their individual talents. Kyle's skills will be needed elsewhere, I am sure.” Diana took the hint and let the subject drop. “So what's become of your brother Jeff and his lovely wife… what was her name? Medusa… Arachne…” “Amanda,” Olivia corrected, allowing herself a sly smile. “Europe. Jeff and I haven't spoken two words to each other since Daddy turned the leadership of the company over to me instead of him. He's sulking. I'm sure he'll be back eventually.” “And their son? What was his name?” “Michael. Believe it or not, he's staying at the house with Randy and I.” “Now that makes no sense. This child spent his life in boarding schools in Europe while his parents lived the high life here in America. Now they are in Europe and he's in Autumn Lake. Are they allergic to him or something?” “It’s complicated. Michael’s an old soul, that’s for sure. Kyle and Emily have been making the effort to draw him out, though.” “Can you believe it, O? Our kids, in love. It's like fate. Our families are so closely connected. First Ross and Katie and...” Again, the unspoken agreement that had existed between the two friends fell between them. Olivia nodded her understanding. “Yes, there are a lot of ifs. If only you'd stayed in town, maybe Will and Karen wouldn't be married.” Diana's eyes flashed. “So, I see you have entertained that thought.” “Oh, of course of I have. I feel like I've made a lot of mistakes, O. With my kids, with my career, with Will.” “But you’re still angry at him?” “Yes. It's like a double edged sword, I’m angry with him for betraying me while at the same time I miss him like crazy.” “It would seem, old friend, that things have gotten very out of control for both of us.” “How are things with Randy? Last time we spoke, things were… strained.” “Stale. Bland. Boring. What other words can I think of?” “I can't believe that! You guys always simmered with sexual energy.” “Not recently. He's... changed, Di. I can't put my finger on when, or how. I know that he had an awful case of writer's block for a long time. Without his writing, he basically was a househusband and he hated that. He started to resent me ‘carrying’ him.” “But your money has always been the primary income in your family.” “Yes, but he was working, he had his book tours and signings and things. Without that he's been a mess. And now, the energy is back with a vengeance, but he still seems so distant. He gets angry at me so easily anymore.” “That's not good.” “I think we just need some space from one another. The kids are grown now, so…” “You mean a separation?” The word hung in the air like a thick fog. “No, maybe not,” Olivia said finally. “That would be like giving up.” Diana was about to speak when a knock at the door interrupted their conversation. “Well, it's about time!” she said, heading for the door. “Let's get this show rolling.” “Oh God,” Olivia gasped, checking her face in a compact mirror. “Am I blotchy? Wine makes me blotchy. And where’s my portfolio?” “You’re fine! Go ahead and get set up, I'll bring him in.” “Thanks, Di.” Olivia organized her folders and checked her watch. Cursing quietly, she realized that she had forgotten to call Randy and tell him about the meeting with McClaine. Considering their fight this afternoon, she didn't want him to think... no, he was probably still locked in his office, oblivious to the fact that she hadn't been home since lunchtime. She could hear Di and Mr. McClaine approaching, and she put on her best business smile. As they rounded the corner to the private booth, she saw a look of surprise on Di's face. “Olivia Drummond-Marshak, let me introduce you to Payton McClaine.” “Payton McClaine?” she mumbled without breaking her smile. Standing before Olivia was not old man McClaine. In his place was a gorgeous man, standing well over six feet tall with skintight jeans and a cowboy hat. He had a devilish grin on his face. “It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mrs. Marshak,” he said, extending his hand. “I apologize for the late hour and the absence of my father. He’s in poor health, as you know, so I came in his place. I’m sure you and I can do business together.” She found it difficult to speak, for some reason. “Yes... Mr. McClaine... I am sure we can... manage without him.” Diana left them to their business and suddenly felt sorry for poor old Randy. Don't miss an episode! Join our episode notification list by clicking below...
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