Hazards on the Hardwood (Hazards and Hijinks) (14 page)

“Well I for one, want out of these sterile walls. I’m ready to go home and do what I do best…read my stock reports and practice my marvelous dance moves with my pookie wookie!”

Sparky groaned inwardly. “Slow down there, Mister!

“I’m ready to get on with my life, Sparky. You are my girl, aren’t you?  My dancing diva?”  The haziness obviously had worn off and Edward was returning to his “old” self.

“As if!” She thought to herself. “As if he were the man of her dreams…more like in her nightmares, maybe in HIS dreams,” She laughed.

“Sparky when we get home I want you to call my old friend Judge Graham. I need you to set up an appointment with him.”

“What for? What’s going on Edward?”

“You’ll know it when I want to tell you baby girl! Some things are not for your delicate ears to hear or your little brain to worry about!” Edward was getting back to normal.

After an hour a nurse walked in and told Edward he was released, he signed the forms and got back into his street clothes, “A free man at last, let’s get out of here!”

They gathered up his belongings, the nurse came in with a wheel chair and they wheeled Edward through the lobby to a waiting limo. “Ah fresh air!” Edward sighed and took in a deep breath. A huge smile replaced the intense look he’d displayed before.

The wind was blowing and the trees were bending slightly, it was a brisk day in New York. A cluster of clouds overhead threatened rain but didn’t live up to their possibility. They cleared and the sun shot through with a feeling of warmth.

Edward was silent as they traveled home. Sparky and Landon picked up on it but said nothing; just looking at one another with a knowing glance. They had a plan and would stick to it.

People hurried down the sidewalks all headed to their destinations. No one seemed to be aware of others as they walked. They had determination on their faces; and a mission on their minds.

It was funny how people just did things, as if automatically programmed. Sparky was looking out the limo window and wondering if and when she would be free. Edward would not allow her to dissolve their relationship easily; not without a huge fight. He could be vindictive and stubborn, this she knew to be true!

Arriving at their elegant apartment, the uniformed driver climbed out of the shiny limo and held the door open while his passengers eased their way out.

“Ah home sweet home!” Edward said with a sarcastic grin.

He had many things to put into place and a short time to accomplish them. The dance competition was quickly approaching and there were many things on his sabotage checklist. His face lit up as he reviewed his plans in his devious mind.

Sparky fetched the house key from her Coach handbag and unlocked the elegant glass-etched front door. “Yes I do have it good here.” She mused as she walked in the front door. Elegant surroundings caught her eye…the contrast between her home and that deplorable hospital room!

Edward shuffled in and didn’t say a word, just walking into his study. It had been put back in its former tidy condition. The housekeeping staff had taken care of their duties competently. “Yes just the way I like it…neat and tidy!” Edward said a little too enthusiastic.

His eyes, still scanning the study, noticed an envelope on the mahogany table. Quickly, he ran and locked the study door, not wanting to be disturbed. He grabbed the envelope with a shaky hand; heart beating rapidly and with a look of apprehension on his face, he opened it. Enclosed were some incriminating photos taken, obviously with a zoom lens. Alarm covered Edward’s face as he rifled through the pictures in his shaky hands.

Pictures always portrayed stories; in this case Edward’s story wasn’t what he wanted people to see. “Who could have taken these? What were they wanting…money? Or revenge?” Confusion and fear took over and Edwards pulse raced as he continued looking at the graphic shots.

“No, not now!” He said in a hushed tone. “What is this madness? If this gets out, it will mean ruin for me. Sparky cannot see these photos.” He put them back in the envelope and stashed them in a drawer and locked it.

Unaware of Edward’s threatening “welcome home,” Sparky waltzed into her beautiful relaxing bedroom and threw her things on the bed. “Ah it’s so great to be home.” She said as she took in the pleasantly decorated room.  Then, an alert came on in her mind and she thought about the brownstone awaiting her after her departure from Edward. “I guess posh and glitz isn’t the only way one can exist. I will “Make it Work” as Tim Gunn says on Project Runway. She snickered at the reference recalling how dapper and suave Tim Gunn appeared on the show.

The plush carpet felt good as she ran her toes through the rich pile. She definitely would have difficulty living in a more “common” environment, but she would adjust! This is what she knew she needed to do. Edward would have his day and then she would leave!

His plans to sabotage the competition made Sparky’s blood boil. She became angrier as she thought about it. “Why would a person be so driven to destroy something that is so special to others?” Sparky became more livid.

After a bit of a rest, she went back downstairs to check on everyone. Landon had fixed himself a cup of coffee and sat down to reflect on all that had happened lately with Edward’s charade of innocence. “Hah, Edward, you think you are fooling everyone.” Landon mused as he sipped the fresh brewed coffee.

Sparky looked in and smiled at Landon on her way to the study. Landon absently grinned and went back to his thoughts.

She made her way to the big wooden study door and grabbed the ornate handle, giving it a twist…LOCKED! “What is this? Edward, why have you locked the door? I need to come in. Unlock it at once.” She could sound authoritative when the need arose.

“Go away, Sparky. I’m busy right now. I have some correspondence to catch up on. I need you to give me some time alone. I’ve been away for several days and my emails and phone calls have piled up. I’ll talk to you in a bit. Now leave me, please and let me get on with it.” Edward’s tone was shaky. Sparky knew there was more going on in there than just emails and phone messages.

26

Friday came and Taffy rushed home from work and kicked off her shoes. Her feet ached and her hair flopped into her face. “Whew! I’m ready for a hot shower and a nice dinner with Nicholas.” She headed toward her bedroom and scanned her walk-in closet for something fun to wear.

She got herself ready, taking an hour to pamper herself then found something that might work and she laid it on the bed, she smiled. “That should catch his eye.” She laughed to herself.

* * * *

Nicholas left his study, after finishing Sunday’s sermon and went to his bedroom all the while thinking about his date with Taffy. The closet wasn’t yelling any fashion choices at him. “Let’s face it, I’m no GQ type of gentleman…more studious and reserved.” He observed as he skimmed through the suits and trousers hanging on the closet rack. “I really do need to “upgrade” my wardrobe contents!”

After standing there for what seemed a long time, he pulled out a navy blazer and a light gray pair of trousers. “Now for just the right shirt and tie.” This was a major ordeal for him. He was used to just a dress shirt, pants and finding a tie that didn’t clash!

He checked himself out in the full length mirror, smiled at himself and said, “Well I do look rather handsome.” He took one more glance and said, “I guess this is as good as it gets, for now.”

* * * *

Taffy was taking the same visual inventory at her apartment. After choosing the “right” outfit, a lavender floral printed dress, tapered at the waist, she smiled. One thing about Taffy, she wasn’t exactly a “trendy” type when it came to fashion. She preferred a more classic look but knew that wearing vintage was only for very special events. People tended to be a little standoffish if you showed up at a birthday party or baby shower dressed like Audrey Hepburn or Grace Kelly.

Pleased with her overall look, she took one last glance in the mirror, grabbed a pair of earrings, a pearl necklace and her stylish pumps and marched out of the bedroom and down to the kitchen for a quick cup of coffee.

At five-thirty she walked out of her apartment, grabbed a taxi and headed to the Italian Inn. Her heart was thumping as she thought about seeing Nicholas. It was quite exciting and she remembered that she couldn’t act too eager to see him. “I don’t want to scare him into thinking I’m after him.” She grinned.

The cab pulled up in front of a lovely building of red brick, fountain with cascading water, twinkle lights blazing, people chattering on the outdoor patio. Soft Italian music was playing on speakers; candles dotted the checkered table-clothed dining room. A very romantic atmosphere, waiters darting from table to table, greeting the patrons with cheery smiles! At the entrance was a podium with a sign saying, “Buona Sera” – the mood was spectacular!

Glancing around the cheery entrance, Taffy found Nicholas standing in the corner, reading a menu. “Hi Nicholas. This is absolutely fabulous…good choice!”

Nicholas looked handsome and Taffy couldn’t help staring at him. “Now don’t be too obvious,” She reminded herself.

“Taffy you look beautiful with or without your green apron, but tonight…simply stunning!” Then to himself he said, “Was that too much over the top?”

“Thank you Nicholas, you clean up nicely yourself.” Realizing after she said it, that it sounded extremely lame and cliché.

“Good evening folks. Welcome to the Italian Inn,” said the host, dressed in a crisp white shirt, bow tie, freshly creased black trousers and with a slight Italian accent. “Do you have a reservation?”

“Yes, Nicholas Kincaid and a guest.” Nicholas said commandingly.

“Ah yes, here it is. Any seating preference? We have you seated by the front with a view of the fountain and patio. Will that work for you?”

“Yes that’s fine with me, how about you, Taffy? Will that be okay?”

“Nicholas that will be perfect. Thanks.” Taffy just couldn’t help taking in all the wonderful romantic surroundings.

“Here are your menus and when you are ready a waiter will be here to serve you. Enjoy your meal.” And with that, the host walked back to his station.

“Nicholas you’ve outdone yourself. This place is wonderful. I’ve always wanted to dine here but it just never happened. Very good choice.” Taffy realized she was gushing and thought she’d better subdue her enthusiasm a bit.

“Taffy, I have wanted to come here too, but never had a reason to. I hope you enjoy yourself. It is such a pleasure to be here with you.” Nicholas tried not to sound so excited but it was too late. He looked over at Taffy and she had a huge grin on her pretty, fair-skinned face.

A waiter showed up at their candlelit table a few minutes later and asked them what they wanted to drink. After their order, he rushed off and they were left alone to soak in the Italian décor and enjoy the ambience.

Nicholas took charge of ordering off the menu and as they waited for their meal he brought out an envelope and handed it to Taffy. “This is for you, Taffy. I hope you enjoy it. I wrote it a few days ago while thinking about our dinner tonight.”

Taffy felt her face warm and knew a blush had taken over her otherwise fair skin. “Thanks, Nicholas. Should I read it now or wait until I am home?”

“Whichever you prefer. If it would embarrass you to read it here, just wait until you’re comfortable at home.” Nicholas said humbly. It seemed as though he could almost read Taffy’s mind.

“I think I will open it at home.” She answered.

They sat and ate leisurely and listened to the lilting melodies sifting through the restaurant. There was a feeling of romance in the air as they glanced around the dining area. Couples were talking quietly with each other, tasty delicacies and fine cuisine displayed on every table. “This is definitely a night to remember,” Taffy thought to herself as she gazed out toward the patio.

As she gazed at the people seated at tables around the fountain, she noticed a familiar face sitting on the patio, eating and talking quietly to a woman. “Francois!” Taffy said under her breath.

“Well what do you know? Francois has a little honey and brought her here tonight!” Taffy snickered. He always spouted off how she was the only one for him and here he was with a beautiful blonde sitting directly in her sight. She would have fun with this, oh yes, so much fun!

Nicholas noticed her staring out the window and asked, “Taffy is something wrong? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“Nope just someone I know out there on the patio.”

“Do you want to go say hello or invite them to our table.” Nicholas asked.

“Oh no, that won’t be necessary. I’ll mention it when I see the person later.” She didn’t want to lie about it, but she was going to roast Francois like a chicken when she had the chance. “Francois’ dancing diva, my eye! He had another hen in the henhouse and the feathers were going to fly!” Then as she calmed down, she realized that Francois was not, in reality, her boyfriend.  He was free to spend time with another lady; they weren’t exclusive to each other.

A live band arrived around 8 o’clock and started playing some dance music. Nicholas looked at Taffy and asked, “Would like to dance?”

“I would love to.”

Nicholas and Taffy walked hand in hand to the dance area and he took her in his arms and they started dancing. Other couples joined them and the dance floor became crowded. As they danced just the thing Taffy dreaded happened; Francois and his “lady friend” joined in the dancing. Taffy tried her best to nestle her head into Nicholas’ chest, but it didn’t work.

“Taffy is that you?” Hollered the familiar voice.

“Why Francois, fancy meeting you here!” Taffy tried to sound nonchalant, but inside she was fuming. “Couldn’t that fake French poser find another place to eat and dance?” Taffy grimaced at Francois.

“I was just telling Caroline here about your dancing skills.”

“Caroline?” Nicholas looked at the lady with surprise in his eyes.

“Nicholas? What are you doing here?”

“I could ask you the same thing!” Nicholas said with the shock reflecting on his face.

Francois just looked completely puzzled. He didn’t know what to think about this dance floor dilemma.

Caroline hadn’t uttered another word after seeing the shocked look on Nicholas’ face. She never expected to see him with another woman, but there he was with a red-haired beauty.
              She glanced at Taffy and knew that she’d seen her before but couldn’t place where.

Taffy was still in a state of puzzlement. Nicholas knew Caroline and she was with Francois and Taffy was with Nicholas. Hum, this was confusing indeed!

Nicholas, ever the gentleman said, “Would you two like to join us at our table?” Caroline stomped off after the song was over and grabbed Francois’ hand and said, “It’s too crowded here, let’s leave. I’ve had enough fun for now.”

“My darling, we just barely got to dance and we haven’t had dessert yet.”

“I’m leaving NOW…either come with me or CALL ME A CAB!” She grabbed her purse and headed out to the main entrance in an angry snit.

Francois complied, grabbing the check and leaving a gracious tip. He paid the cashier and hurried out the door to find Caroline. She was standing by the curb, tapping her toes waiting for Francois to get her a taxi. “This has been a nightmare. I don’t ever want to eat here again.” She said angrily.

“Yes dear heart, we will find another place to dine from now on and I will check out the crowd before we sit down to dinner.” Always trying to sound reconciliatory, he aimed to please Caroline and that was no easy task.

“Francois, what happened to your French accent?” Caroline smirked as she sat thinking about what had just happened in the restaurant.

“Oh my dear Caroline, I must be truthful with you. I haven’t been to France in years. It’s just a little embellishment I use when I’m in my ballroom dancing mode. I slip every once in a while. Please forgive me, you ravishing creature!”

Content in the knowledge that Caroline was a superficial kind of woman, he hoped that the explanation had soothed her suspicions of his intentions and things could return back to status quo.

Francois and Caroline had been seeing each other secretly for almost a month. She was afraid of hurting Nicholas and wanted to finish out the competition partnering with him no matter what.

Caroline seemed to have calmed down some while riding home in the cab. She stared off in space out the rain-spotted window while Francois tried to think of something clever to say.

Francois realized that he was going to have to talk to Taffy at some point, later on. There was little joy in that thought. Taffy was a hothead and it was difficult to reason with her once she got to the point of anger. Francois usually prided himself on the ability to calm the savage beast; that being Taffy. This time, however, might be a bit more difficult. It would take every ounce of diplomacy and savvy to get her to agree to dance with him at the competition after tonight’s fiasco.

Then he thought to himself, “Hey wait a minute, I wasn’t the only one there tonight with another person. Taffy had that Nicholas fellow with her. How’s she going to judge me about Caroline when she was dining with him?” A grin passed over his face the more he figured she had no room to get herself in a snit.

Caroline still hadn’t said much. Deep in her own thoughts, she wondered, “Is this Francois guy on the level? Or is he just out to sweet talk me into dropping Nicholas as a dance partner and choose him instead? Anyway, what do I know about him? Rich, yes…family-owned spandex empire. But that’s family money, what does he do? Just stare at himself in the mirror all day?” She laughed quietly.

Nicholas and Taffy were quietly talking at their table. They pondered what had just happened with Francois and Caroline.

“Well that was interesting!” Nicholas said looking at Taffy.

“Yes but I’ve had a feeling about Francois for some time. He rarely calls me unless it has to do with practicing our dance routine or rescuing me from some danger. He’s always preoccupied with his own comings and goings and I’m never around to stroke his ego. So it’s really not surprising to me that he should be wining and dining another lady.”

“But Caroline…that kind of shocked me. I have been aware of her failed relationships and her distancing herself from men in the past, but I thought that she was open enough to let me know if she had a gentleman friend dating her.” After he had spoken, he also realized he had not been totally upfront with Caroline either. There was a bit of confusion in his voice.

“Nicholas, I don’t want this situation to ruin our friendship. What do you think? Should we just move forward and enjoy the remainder of the evening and not give another thought to what just happened?” Taffy tried to smile graciously.

“I couldn’t agree more. Let’s have another dance, shall we?” Nicholas’ face lit up and he was hopeful that their friendship would grow. He felt a special place in his heart for this lovely lady.

“I’m glad I decided to come out to dinner with you tonight. And…yes, I would love another dance.”

They walked to the dance floor and joined the other couples. “This night has been wonderful.” Taffy thought to herself as she whirled in his capable steady arms.