This Winter Night Read online

  “Those of you who know me are aware that I went through a period of time when I wanted to party 24/7. I worked in the family business, yes, but my heart wasn’t in it. I worked from Monday to Friday but at quitting time I was ready to have a good time. And Saturday and Sunday, I didn’t go to church—those were my days to really cut loose. I drank too much and I lost count of the number of women I went through. Seeing I was wasting my life, my dad pulled me aside and said, ‘Son, what do you value most?’

  “I gave him some insincere answer about valuing family. He laughed at me and told me that if I truly valued family I would be doing everything in my power to make sure that when the time came I would be ready to take the reins of Riley Construction instead of slowly killing my body with alcohol and my soul with womanizing. Of course, I didn’t listen. I didn’t get it until he told me he was dying. Then, I was slapped in the face with reality and I knew he’d been right. If I cared about my family I would be preparing myself to pick up where he left off. I still drink but I don’t do it excessively. I’ve learned what moderation means. And I respect women. I’ve become the man my family needs, but it was at a terrible expense. My father’s gone. I miss you, Dad.”

  She’d been wrong. It wasn’t a eulogy Colton had given. It had been a personal goodbye to his father. Not the story of his father’s life, but the story of a son’s redemption.

  There were tears in her eyes when he finished.

  It was Frank’s eldest brother, Tad, who gave the eulogy after Colton sat down. By the end of the service Lauren and several people around her had shed plenty of tears.

  When they stood to watch the casket being carried out by the pallbearers, she whispered to Desiree, “I know I told you I wouldn’t be going to the cemetery but I changed my mind. Will you be okay getting a taxi home?”

  Desiree, who had said earlier she didn’t want to go to the cemetery because those places gave her the creeps, now relented. “I’m not going to desert you. I can see how emotional you got after Colton’s speech. It’s almost as if you care about him.”

  “I’m not the only person here who found what he said touching,” Lauren pointed out. She realized Desiree was not being mean-spirited but she wished just once her brainy sister would not be compelled to voice her opinions.

  They fell silent until the procession with Frank’s body had passed. Then they filed out of the church with the more than five hundred other people who had come to pay their respects.

  Outside, Lauren took a deep, cleansing breath and carefully made her way through the throng of people who were milling about chatting instead of making their way to their cars to follow the hearse to the cemetery.

  She looked around to see if she’d lost Desiree in the crowd. But she soon saw that her sister had been waylaid by a tall, broad-shouldered man in an expensively cut black suit.

  As she stood there debating whether or not to go back for Desiree, a voice from behind said, “I thought I spotted you.”

  She turned at the sound of Colton’s voice and her stomach muscles constricted painfully at the sight of him. He was dressed impeccably in a black suit, crisp white shirt and burgundy silk tie with highly polished wingtips on his feet. But his face was tired and drawn. Her heart went out to him.

  She wrapped her arms around him when he came in for a hug. He squeezed her tightly and spoke hurriedly. “We’re heading to the cemetery now, but I’d love it if you’d come to the house.” He slipped a card in the palm of her hand. “Here’s the address.” He looked in Desiree’s direction. “Is that one of your sisters?”

  “Yes. Desiree,” she said.

  “Don’t worry about her. That’s my cousin Decker with her.” He pecked her on the cheek. “I’ve got to go. They’re waiting on me in the limousine. You will come?”

  “Yes,” she found herself saying even though she didn’t think it would be a wise thing to do. Already her emotions were betraying her. Instead of reacting mildly to his presence after not seeing him for twenty-four hours, she had been ridiculously glad to see him.

  He jogged away as soon she acquiesced. As he climbed in the back of the limousine he smiled at her and gave her a little wave. Desiree caught up with her a few minutes later after having finally shaken Colton’s cousin.

  “Oh, my God,” she complained, her voice low, “I can’t believe I’ve just been hit on at a funeral. He’s a prime cut of man-beef. But really, this isn’t a typical pickup venue.”

  Lauren laughed softly. “That was Colton’s cousin Decker.”

  Desiree flashed a business card. “Mr. Decker Riley, Esq.,” she read. “Shakespeare had it right when he wrote, first kill all the lawyers. Mr. Riley’s really full of himself.”

  “I’m sorry you feel that way because my plans have changed,” Lauren told her regrettably. “We’re not going to the cemetery after all. We’re going to the Rileys’ home.”

  They began walking toward the street where Lauren had parked the car. The crowd had thinned somewhat so the path was clear. Desiree, a bit shorter than her long-legged older sister, had to nearly run to keep pace. “I kind of feel like the best friend in a romantic comedy,” she said a bit breathlessly. “First you told me you were going to the funeral because you were friends with Frank and Veronica Riley and it was only right to show up to pay your respects. Then you tell me you’re extending your respects by going to the cemetery. Now you tell me you’re getting in even deeper by going to the Rileys’ home.”

  When they were nearly there Lauren remotely unlocked the doors. “I’ll explain on the drive over,” she promised.

  The black late-model Range Rover wound its way through traffic as they traversed downtown Raleigh and turned and headed out of town to the suburbs.

  “What’s going on, Lauren?” Desiree asked. “While I was talking to God’s gift to women, I looked back and saw you hugging Colton as though you two hadn’t seen each other in years. That’s not how people act who have just met and are casual acquaintances.”

  “I’m emotionally raw,” Lauren admitted. “Maybe I’m experiencing what people say happens when you save somebody’s life. I feel responsible for him now.”

  “You’re getting way too attached,” Desiree said, stating her opinion once more. “You did what any decent human being would have done. You let him in out of the cold, nothing more.” Her eyes narrowed, her expression grew contemplative. “Or, is there something you’re not telling me?”

  “If I were keeping a secret, do you think that question would get it out of me?”

  “Then something did happen between you two when you were snowed in!” Desiree exclaimed triumphantly.

  “Really, Desi, you should learn to curb your imagination. I simply like the Rileys, both Veronica and Colton. I’ve known Veronica for more than three years. I’ve just met Colton, but he seems like a decent man. A man who reminds me of his father, whom I enjoyed knowing.”

  “Oh, please,” said Desiree sarcastically. “You’re backpedaling so fast smoke is coming out of your ears. You like Colton Riley like I like chocolate and you know I love the stuff. I would marry it if it were possible.”

  Smiling, Lauren said, “You and most of the women in the world. Seriously, I’m not in love with Colton Riley.”

  “Then you’re in lust with him,” said her very wise sister.

  Lauren didn’t deny it. “Should I make an appointment with you to talk about it?”

  “That depends,” said Desiree. “Is he in lust with you, too?”

  “I would say yes,” Lauren said confidently.

  Desiree sighed deeply. “I can see now that all my earlier warnings came too late. But you know what? Your falling off your pedestal has been a long time coming. You were a virgin when you married Eckhart and I’m sure you never cheated on him, even though you probably had plenty of provocation.”

  “Could you spe
ak plain English on occasion?” Lauren asked. “I know you’re the brain in the family, but give us poor average people a break.”

  “You’re not that average,” said her sister sweetly. “Anyway, what I’m saying is, so what? You had a fling with Colton. It’s nothing to get all guilty and repentant over. You’re both free agents. Wait, he isn’t involved with anyone, right?”

  “He told me he isn’t,” Lauren confirmed.

  “Okay, then,” Desiree continued, “my only concern is that you’re newly divorced and have probably not gotten over the hurt yet. Although, I don’t see why you don’t recognize the fact you’re well rid of that snake.”

  “I’m realizing it more every day.”

  “Good. So, I’m just worried that you got it on with Colton because you wanted to test whether or not you were still desirable and Colton got it on with you because he was distraught over his father’s death and found comfort in your bed. Other than that, I say go for it.”

  Lauren laughed shortly. “You hit the nail on the head. Should I keep seeing him for the hot sex, or cut my losses because a relationship based on a fling has no future?”

  “It was hot, huh?” Desiree asked, observing her sister’s face. Lauren couldn’t hide the longing expression that fleetingly crossed her face.

  “Honestly, the best I ever had,” Lauren said.

  “Well, come on now,” said her sister, throwing cold water on that statement. “You’ve only had two men so far. I’ve had more lovers.”

  “Interesting,” said Lauren. “Care to tell me how many more lovers you’ve had?”

  “Four more,” Desiree answered nonchalantly. “A couple of them weren’t worth the effort. Bad is an understatement to describe their performances in bed. I’m not saying you can’t have great sex without being in love, but my best experiences were with Noel, and I loved that man more than chocolate.”

  Lauren sighed sadly in sympathy for her sister’s loss. Noel Alexander had died tragically in a boating accident during Desiree’s senior year of college. They had been engaged.

  “So from personal experience, I think what you’re feeling for Colton might be more than mere lust. Perhaps you made a personal connection. The only way to find out is to let this play out. To do that you’ll have to risk getting hurt again. Are you willing to risk it?” Desiree asked.

  Lauren didn’t answer immediately. She knew Desiree expected her to give it some thought. Her first instinct was to guard her heart and oftentimes her first instinct had turned out to be the wisest choice. But Desiree had been right when she said it was about time Lauren fell from her self-imposed pedestal. It was time she took some risks.

  No one accomplished great things without some risk. “I think it’s worth it,” she finally said. “What if he’s the one for me in spite of the unusual way we met?”

  Desiree seemed pleased with her decision. “I can’t wait to tell Mina and Meg,” she said with a big smile.

  “You can’t tell anyone else,” Lauren said hurriedly. “Colton and I promised each other that our affair would be just that, our affair. Aren’t therapists supposed to keep what patients tell them confidential?”

  “You’re not my patient. You’re my sister,” Desiree pointed out. It was apparent she was eager to share what she’d learned with Amina and Meghan. “I won’t breathe a word of it to Mom and Dad, but you’ve got to let me tell the girls.”

  “No, Desi.” Lauren wouldn’t budge.

  “Then you’d better give me a dollar,” Desiree caved in.

  “Why should I give you a dollar?” Lauren asked.

  “Payment for my services,” Desiree said. “I consider what I do to be as important as what lawyers do. Legally, you’re not my patient until there has been an exchange of legal tender for my expertise.”

  Busy driving, Lauren briefly glanced at her sister to see if her expression was serious. It was. “Oh, okay, look in my purse and get a dollar. But I want a receipt!”

  Chapter 6

  The Rileys’ sprawling three-story antebellum-inspired house sat on a hundred acres of verdant land near a lake. Ancient oak trees with branches covered in moss dotted the property. It was the picture of genteel Southern living.

  Lauren guessed this was a gathering exclusively for family and close friends because when she and Desiree arrived there were only about thirty cars parked in the circular driveway.

  The housekeeper greeted them at the door and directed them to the solarium where waitstaff carrying trays of canapés circulated among the guests. A bar was set up in the corner of the room.

  “They certainly have class,” Desiree whispered.

  “Lauren!”

  Lauren heard her name being called from across the room and looked up to find Veronica heading their way. In her late fifties, Veronica was tastefully dressed in a black sleeveless A-line sheath with a matching jacket and black pumps. Her shoulder-length dark-brown hair had gold highlights that brought out the gold in her eyes. Lauren was enveloped in her arms. She fondly pressed her cheek to hers and then released her to get a good look at her. “I was glad when Colton told me he’d invited you. It gives me the chance to thank you for what you did for him. Thank you, dear.”

  Lauren smiled shyly. “There’s no need for thanks, Veronica. He was the perfect houseguest. He cooked and did his own laundry.” Lauren thought it best to keep things light. The day had probably been unbearably sad for Veronica.

  Veronica laughed softly as she took notice of Desiree for the first time. “This must be Desiree. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

  “The pleasure’s all mine,” Desiree said sincerely.

  She and Desiree clasped hands briefly, and Veronica looked at the sisters side by side. “There’s a strong resemblance,” she said. “There are five of you altogether, right?”

  “Yes,” Lauren answered, “Although only four of us live in the area.”

  “Ah, yes, one of your sisters is studying the Great Apes in Africa.”

  “I’m afraid I tell my mom everything,” Colton said as he joined them. “But I didn’t know she actually listened to me.”

  He offered Desiree his hand. “It’s wonderful to meet you, Desiree.”

  Desiree firmly shook his hand and smiled up at him. “Likewise, Colton,” she said. “I’m so sorry for your loss.”

  “Thank you,” he said simply. Then he turned to Lauren, and said, “I have something to show you.” He looked apologetically at Desiree. “You don’t mind if I steal her for a few minutes, do you?”

  Desiree was magnanimous. “Of course not. Keep her as long as you like. I was getting tired of her anyway.”

  Lauren quickly cut her eyes at Desiree before turning to follow Colton.

  In Colton and Lauren’s absence, Veronica moved closer to Desiree. “I don’t know about you but I’m famished. Would you join me for something to eat?”

  “Sure,” said Desiree and she followed Veronica out of the solarium to the kitchen.

  “The staff is circulating with finger foods,” Veronica explained, “but who can satisfy their hunger on that stuff?”

  Desiree found Veronica Riley was a woman after her own heart.

  She’d missed breakfast that morning and the array of Southern dishes displayed on the huge island in the center of the kitchen made her mouth water. She was putting a slice of juicy ham on her plate right next to a serving of potato salad when Decker Riley strode into the room. “Auntie, I’ve been looking everywhere for you. The pastor has to leave and he wanted to speak with you about something before he left.” He stopped in his tracks when he spotted Desiree and smiled broadly. “We meet again,” he said, the delight evident in his deep baritone.

  Veronica was chewing a mouthful of collard greens and cornbread. She swallowed. “Child, tell the pastor to come back here. I’m not le
aving this kitchen until I’m full as a tick. Desiree will be here when you get back. Won’t you, Desiree?”

  Desiree smiled politely. “I’m not going anywhere.”

  Decker reluctantly spun on his heels and went to give the pastor his aunt’s message.

  Veronica smiled at Desiree. “He comes off a bit too strong but he’s really a decent young man.”

  Desiree had good instincts about people and she believed Veronica Riley was the type of woman who saw things clearly and consequently spoke her mind. “We met earlier at the church and ‘player’ was the first impression I got.”

  Veronica sighed. “I don’t know why young men these days think that image appeals to women. I think it turns off more women than it attracts. I feel that some so-called players are really insecure. It seems to be all a facade they hide behind in order to protect themselves from getting hurt.”

  “You’re very perceptive,” Desiree told her. “That’s my theory, as well.”

  Veronica smiled. “I knew when I met you that we were two of a kind.”

  * * *

  When Colton had said he had something to show Lauren, he hadn’t been using that as an excuse to get her alone. He really did have something to show her. However, they had to run an obstacle course to get where he was taking her. His dad’s study.

  They were stopped by his sister, Jade, as he and Lauren began climbing the stairs to the second floor. Lauren found Jade to be as charming as her mother and brother. She was tall and full-figured. Her skin was dark chocolate like her father’s and she had jewel-like golden-brown eyes that sparkled with happiness. Her husband, Manu Everett, who was half Samoan and half African American, was a couple inches taller than Colton’s six-two frame, but he was about the size of a refrigerator.

  “Colton, is this Lauren?” Jade asked excitedly.

  Colton introduced them. Lauren couldn’t help smiling. Jade’s face was so animated. How does she manage to look this happy, Lauren wondered, when they just buried their father today?