Chapter XLIX

Charisma slammed into her office – or at least slammed as loudly as she dared with Adam asleep upstairs.  She caught sight of the album that still rested on the coffee table and picked it up with a jerk.  She hefted it as though she was going to throw it, then dropped it back on the table with a sneer as though that would make the damn thing disappear on its own.

She looked around the room, realizing that she’d basically created her own prison.  Her mother wouldn’t bother her as long as she was in here, but the moment she set foot outside the door, Okasa would feel Charisma was fair game.  And for whatever reason, Charisma just didn’t feel up to dealing with it anymore today.  She was exhausted and heart sore.

She moved to the couch and lay down, putting her head on the arm and curling her legs up.  She grabbed the pillow and pulled it into her chest.  Charisma let her mind drift for a long moment, thinking about  - had it only been yesterday that Brianna had been here?   She shook her head, then she closed her eyes and shut out the world for a little while.  She never felt herself doze off.

************

Brianna seriously considered going home as she made her way downstairs to her waiting car.  Her head really did hurt and thanks to Esmeralda she actually had food for several days.  Still Esmeralda’s words niggled at her and she couldn’t shake the feeling that Esmeralda had a good point.  She had been extremely passive about this whole affair - for lack of a better word – allowing Charisma to run roughshod over her in almost every confrontation they’d had since her arrival in Washington.  Only once had she really called Charisma out about it, and only then had Adam been able to affect a change.

She closed her eyes and leaned her head back against the seat, wincing when she rolled over the bump as she pressed the speaker button.  “Jas?”

“Yes, Senator?”

“I need you to take me over to Senator Tagherty’s.”

“Senator?” Jas asked.  A glance at the clock told her how late it was, and while she honestly believed Charisma was still awake, she doubted a positive action would come of simply dropping by the woman’s home at this time of night.  Still....

“Is there a problem, Jas?”

“No problem, Senator.  I wanted to be sure I heard you correctly.  You want me to drive you to Senator Tagherty’s?”

“Yes.  You’ll have to wait out front as my understanding is that her limousine is not garaged there either, but with a little luck this won’t take too long.  Of course the way my luck’s been running today....”  Brianna muttered under her breath, but Jas still heard her.  However, she was a woman of no small intelligence and chose to ignore the last bit and focus on the first.

“Yes, Senator.  I am at your disposal,” neatly swinging the large car towards Charisma’s and hoping she had time to call Esmeralda if the whole thing went south.

************

Okasa and Patrick were sitting at the table eating when the gate buzzed for attention.  They exchanged glances, then Patrick rose and went to the hall.

“Yes?”

Jas blinked.  She certainly hadn’t expected to hear a man’s voice, and she had to clear her throat before she could speak.

“Senator Brianna Walker to see Senator Charisma Tagherty.”

Now it was Patrick’s turn to blink and he turned towards the kitchen doorway when he heard Okasa approaching him.  Her eyes were wide, but she was motioning ‘YES’ to him frantically.  So like any good husband and father, he pushed the button to give Brianna access to the house.  Then he took Okasa’s hand and they waited together in the foyer for the car to arrive.

It only took a moment, then they heard the doors open and close and footsteps on the concrete.  Then there was a knock and Okasa smiled and moved to open the door.

“Brianna!” she welcomed quietly but with enthusiasm.  Brianna held onto the embrace for a long moment, then stepped back, only to find herself in Patrick’s strong arms. 

“Oh, Papa,” she said softly, and he lifted her completely off the ground.  Her spine popped back into alignment and she groaned.  Patrick and Okasa looked at one another over her head.

“Little Girl, when was the last time you had that taken care of?”

Brianna squeezed his neck one more time for good measure and pushed away slightly.  Patrick took the hint and set her back on her feet but kept a protective arm around her shoulder.  She leaned her head on his chest and wrapped an arm around both Patrick’s and Okasa’s waists, hugging them again.  “Honestly?” she replied after a moment.  “The last time you hugged me.”

Okasa frowned.  “That’s not funny, Little Bri.  That’s way too long to go.”

“Without a hug from you guys?  Trust me – I know.  Now,” looking between them, “how bad is it?”

“You know sometimes I wish she was small enough to take over my knee.  I might be able to put some sense into her again.”

“That bad, huh?”

“Well,” Patrick drawled slowly.  “She skipped dinner and locked herself up in that room she calls a study.”

“Oh boy.  All right let me....  Mama?” stopping when Okasa tightened her grip around Brianna’s waist.

“First you’re gonna come with me and Papa to the kitchen.  I’m pretty sure you haven’t eaten yet either and if you’re going to beard that lion in her den, you may as well do so with a full belly.  You’ll feel better, and given the damage I can see I’d say you need to feel as good as you possibly can before you go in there.  What happened to you anyway?”

Brianna released her hold on both of them and allowed them to lead her to the kitchen.  Her mouth watered when she smelled hamburgers; they were a favorite when the family got together and it seemed like it had been forever since her summer visit.  “Adam,” she answered succinctly.

“Excuse me?  Are you saying my grandson beat up on you?”

Brianna laughed then winced when it pulled at her healing lip.  “Not exactly.  He was actually trying to show me love.  I just wasn’t quite ready for the force of nature that particular future linebacker is.”

Patrick and Okasa nodded and chuckled.  It had been talked about between them before.  Okasa motioned Brianna to a seat and reached in the fridge for the milk.  She simply returned Brianna’s look when the younger woman tried to give her one.  Then she cocked an eyebrow at her.

“Don’t even try it young lady.  With all the coffee and God knows what other crap you put into your body on a daily basis, you will survive drinking a glass of milk with your dinner.”

“Yes, Mama,” Brianna responded.

It didn’t take long for Brianna to eat.  It wasn’t much – not nearly what it could have been and barely enough to make Okasa happy, but even Okasa recognized Brianna’s logic about not gorging herself too late at night.  Besides, Brianna was obviously getting antsy about talking to Charisma.  So Okasa eyeballed her still half-filled glass of milk and then stared at Brianna pointedly.  Brianna sighed dramatically but lifted the glass to her lips and dutifully drained it.

When she was done she placed the empty glass back on the counter and waited for Okasa to nod her approval.  Instead Okasa leaned over and kissed her cheek and whispered, “Go get ‘er, Brianna.”  Brianna flushed to the roots of her hair, then nodded and rose.  Without another word she left the kitchen and headed for Charisma’s study.

Patrick and Okasa watched her go, then without speaking started cleaning up the kitchen.

************

It was a light tapping on the door that brought Charisma out of the light sleep she’d fallen into.  She frowned, taking a moment to get her bearings and then realizing her sanctuary had become her prison.  And now it seemed her mother felt the need to torture her here as well.  She sighed and sat up, running her fingers through her hair and scrubbing a hand over her face in an attempt to force wakefulness into her brain.  Another knock sounded and she growled.  “Go away, Mother.  I’m not in the mood.”

“Charisma?” the voice causing her to sit up straight in a blind panic.  “It’s Brianna.  May I come in?”

Charisma felt a myriad of reactions and emotions roar through her and she gripped the couch with

white-knuckled strength.  She sat breathing for a long moment, trying to find some semblance of control.  It was only when Brianna spoke again that she understood her time was up.

“Okay, well... maybe you’re sleeping or maybe you’re just furious and don’t want to talk to me.  Whatever.”  She sighed.  “For what it’s worth, I’m sorry.  I never meant for this to hurt you, but I’m not the only one at fault here.  You bear some of the responsibility too and....”

Whatever else Brianna had been about to say was lost when Charisma jerked the door open and glared at her.  “Excuse me?  My responsibility?”  Brianna held her stare measure for measure, and finally Charisma stepped back a pace and gestured towards her sanctum.  “Would you like to come in?” she invited.  “I’d prefer to handle this privately between us if you don’t mind.”

Brianna wondered why if that was the case, Okasa and Patrick were now ensconced in Charisma’s home at her demand.  She had no way of knowing that Okasa had instructed Charisma to take care of things with Brianna directly.  But she would momentarily.

“My mother insisted that we handle this between us; she swears she’s not culpable for anything to do with this situation,” Charisma said snidely as she closed the door.

“She’s telling the truth,” Brianna affirmed.

“How can you know that?  You don’t even know what she said yet!”  Charisma would have been yelling had Adam not been asleep.  As it was, her whisper was quite deadly in its ferocity.

“Because she did what I asked her to do, Charisma.”

Charisma sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose between her thumb and forefinger.  “It always comes back to you leaving me, doesn’t it?  WHY?” she continued without pausing.  “Why did you leave??  Why was I not enough for you anymore, but my family was?  What made them so goddamn special, Brianna??” Charisma asked, chest heaving and eyes flashing fire.

Brianna couldn’t help but admire how beautiful and passionate Charisma was in that moment, then she closed off that part of herself and turned the question around.  “Why didn’t you come after me, Charisma?  Why didn’t you make an effort to find out what was wrong?  Why didn’t you want to know then why I left?  What difference could it possibly make to you now??”

Charisma blew out an impatient breath.  “This isn’t getting us anywhere.”

Brianna raked her hands through her hair.  “Charisma, I’ve told you this, but allow me to reiterate – when you’re ready to hear the answer, you’ll ask the right question.  And I promise I will give you the truth.  Charisma, I have never lied to you; I won’t lie about this.”

Blue eyes held green for a long moment and finally Charisma nodded.  “Keep reminding me – eventually it’ll stick.”

Brianna snorted.  “No it won’t.  You’ll keep asking until you get the result you want.”

Charisma laughed.  “You know me so well,” seeing a flinch pass over Brianna’s face.  “Bri?”

“Sorry – when I try to smile it pulls on my lip and it’s still pretty bruised.”

Charisma put her fingertips under Brianna’s chin and lifted it so she could get a better look.  “Yeah, he did quite a number on you.  How do you feel?”

“Thrilled I will not be playing quarterback against him.” Brianna said, eyes twinkling.  “Pretty sure he would have given me brain damage if he’d been a little bigger.”  Charisma let her hands slide over Brianna’s hair to the back of her head, wincing in tandem when they touched the knot.

“Ow.”

“Yeah, but it doesn’t hurt unless I put pressure on it.”

“Are you hungry?” Charisma asked suddenly.

“Mama O fed me the minute I walked in the door.  You KNOW what that’s like.”

“Oh yeah,” Charisma agreed.  “Well, would you mind coming to the kitchen with me anyway?  I need something to eat and I am still curious about a couple things.”

“Are we all right?”

“We’re all right.  I just would really like to know why my family got you when I didn’t and why everyone felt the need to keep it a secret from me.  I feel all kinds of an idiot, you know?”

Brianna took Charisma’s hand and tugged her towards the door.  “C’mon.  This calls for ice cream.”

************

“Mama?” Patrick asked when she took his hand and led him upstairs towards their room.  “I thought we were gonna wait downstairs... maybe watch a little TV.”  She gave him a look.

“Patrick Tagherty – don’t stand there and act the fool with me.  I know very well you set the machine to record every show you watch while we’re gone, so don’t pretend like you’re actually missing something.”  She held up a hand when he started to speak.  “They’re not yelling and Brianna hasn’t left so I’m gonna take a big leap here and guess they’re essentially talking to one another.  That being the case, we’re gonna give them the space they need to do so.  You remember how they used to take over the house when they settled in to talk.  We can keep an eye on Adam.”

“You’re pretty smart for an old woman,” Patrick said saucily, his leer belied by the twinkle in his eye.  Okasa narrowed her eyes at him and gave him a baleful stare. 

“You’re treading on thin ice, Old Man.”  Patrick chuckled silently.

“I know... ain’t it great??”  Okasa just smirked and shook her head, then they went in to check on Adam.

************

“So talk to me, Brianna.  Tell me why my family got to have you around for the last twenty years.”

Brianna sighed.  She had to skirt such a thin line with this discussion, but Charisma deserved the answers Brianna was able to give.  “When I got back from Barcelona,” seeing Charisma acknowledge her words, “I went straight to school.  But my first free weekend, I went down to see your folks.  I needed to say goodbye to them.”

“Like you couldn’t say goodbye to me?” Charisma asked, her ire returning.  Brianna covered her hand.

“I said goodbye, Charisma, even if I never uttered the actual words.  You knew when I walked away from you in that airport it was goodbye.”  Charisma dropped her head until her eyes were focused on their hands and she nodded her admission of the truth.  “Right,” Brianna offered in acceptance.

“So when I told Okasa I was saying goodbye, she told me NO.  She refused to accept a goodbye from me – insisted I was part of the family and informed me in no uncertain terms that family didn’t just get to leave.  So I stayed with the understanding that it would be done around your schedule.”

“But why keep it secret?” looking at Brianna again.

“Because you let me go, Charisma.  You let me walk away without once trying to understand why I left.  I took that as my cue that you were done with me.  I didn’t see a need to anger you.”

Charisma held Brianna’s eyes, studying them as she hadn’t done since college.  And she discovered that the woman before her was much like the girl she had known.  She finally nodded.  “Fair enough,” she conceded.  “Now what?”

Brianna shrugged.  “I figure that’s up to you. You invited me to join you again, but I won’t hold you to it.”

“Do you want to come?”

Brianna just gave Charisma a droll look and Charisma chuckled, knowing what was coming.  “Charisma, I have spent the last nearly twenty years going to your mother’s house on oddball weekends to celebrate the holidays with your family.  I’m pretty sure my wanting is not going to be a problem here.  Not sure how your family will react to going back to one celebration per holiday, but we can cross that bridge if we come to it.”

“They’ll live,” Charisma declared.  “However, if it’s left up to me, they’ll only get to celebrate once like the rest of the world does.  Have you talked to Mama?”

Brianna shook her head.  “Figured I needed to talk to you first.  But Es said she and Saphira would love to join us if Okasa wouldn’t think they’re imposing.”

“I’ll talk to Mama in the morning, but you know what she’s going to say.”

“Bring ‘em along, Little Bri.  The more, the merrier.”

Charisma covered her mouth to keep from shouting her laughter.  “Wow – you’ve got her down pat.”

Brianna rolled her eyes.  “As many times as I’ve heard her say something similar...?  Well, check with her in the morning to be sure, will you?  Esmeralda and Saphira have been such a blessing in my life since I got here and I’d really rather they weren’t embarrassed.  Not that I think anyone would say a word if they just showed up with me,” Brianna continued before Charisma could protest.  “But as sensitive as Es is I think she’d notice if they were sprung on your family without warning.

Charisma nodded.  “Probably.  I’ll talk to her in the morning and let you know at work.”

“Speaking of... I need to get home.”  They rose and took their dishes to the sink and Charisma waved Brianna off when she started to wash them.  “I’ll take care of them before I go to bed.  You, on the other hand, still have to get there  so....  Do you have a way?”

“Jas is waiting outside,” seeing Charisma nod her approval.  She headed towards the front door with Charisma right beside her.  “Thank you for seeing me, Charisma.”

“Thank you for caring enough to stop by, Bri.  We’ll get there.”

“Maybe one day.  Goodnight.”

“Night.”  Charisma watched her to the car and waited for the taillights to disappear down the hill.  Then she locked up and washed up the dishes before heading up to bed.  Everything else could wait until morning.


Chapter L

The next few days passed much the same way.  Everyone was incredibly busy trying to get their work wrapped up before week’s end.  Even if they had to come back for a short assembly between holidays, they preferred to have things done and ready for the next full session once the holidays were officially over.

So everyone was pushing – putting in extra hours in an effort to get done and leave Washington for a while. Ruby and Saphira noticed a difference in their clientele and Esmeralda didn’t have time to do more than nod at her friends.  But no one was happier to see the weekend than Charisma and Brianna.

Despite their best efforts, they had barely had time for hello.  Even lunches were impossible as both of them ended up working through them with other people.  So when Esmeralda finally made it into Brianna’s office on Friday night, she wasn’t particularly surprised to find them together.  They weren’t doing anything – seriously... they were curled into opposite corners of the couch, shoes off and legs tucked up under them each holding a tumbler of something Esmeralda strongly suspected was a very old whiskey.

Even her entrance into the office didn’t merit more than a peek from beneath long lashes before the eyes closed once more.  Loath to disturb them, Esmeralda simply parked her cart and quietly pulled her supplies from it.  Then she started in on her work.

It took Brianna a few minutes to realize that what she’d seen when she’d struggled to open her eye was in fact, Esmeralda.  She rubbed her eyes and pushed her hair back before she sat up and nudged Charisma with her foot.  Charisma jumped and glared at Brianna, then looked in the direction Brianna had jerked her head.  Her eyes widened and she sat up and wiped her face.

“Es?”

Esmeralda turned back from her garbage collection and smiled.  “Good evening, Senator Tagherty... Senator Walker,” giggling at the twin glowers her greeting garnered her.

“Smart mouth.” Charisma muttered loud enough for Esmeralda to hear it.  She turned to Brianna.  “My mother is going to love her.”  She looked back at Esmeralda.  “You are coming with Brianna next week, right?”

Esmeralda’s eyes went wide.  “Ummm....”

“I haven’t seen her long enough to let her know that Okasa insisted to the point of threatening,” Brianna admitted.

“Neither have I,” Charisma sighed, then patted the sofa.  “Come sit a minute, Es.”

“Ri, she might be as anxious as we were to get done so she can get out of here.  Remember, she’s on holiday too,” Brianna reminded Charisma when Esmeralda hesitated.

“Sorry, Es.  I don’t think I’m functioning on all cylinders,” Charisma confessed.  “Bri told Mama that she’d invited you and Saphira to spend the holiday with her when Mama told her she expected her for the holiday.  So Mama instructed her to bring you; I was told to make sure it happened.”  She turned big blue eyes on Esmeralda, and for a brief moment Esmeralda was reminded of Saphira.  “Please don’t make me explain to my mama why you didn’t come with Brianna.”

“Um... okay.”  She looked at Brianna as relief passed through Charisma’s expression.  “I didn’t realize you meant the actual holiday.”

Brianna shrugged.  “I didn’t at the time.”

Esmeralda’s eyes twinkled, understanding more than Brianna felt comfortable saying.  “All right,” she reaffirmed.  “As long as you’re sure we won’t be intruding.”

“Es, I’m not kidding you when I tell you Mama insisted.  You’ll find Mama tends to get what she wants.  Just ask Brianna.”   She pointed to Brianna whose head was bobbing up and down vigorously.  “Trust me when I tell you that not only will you not be intruding, you’re expected and will be more than welcome to join us.  Ruby is invited as well.”

Esmeralda blinked.  “I’ll tell her, but I think she expected to go home for the weekend.  Matilda has already given her the time off.”

Brianna frowned.  “Doesn’t that mean Saphira will have to work?”

Esmeralda shook her head and smiled.  “No.  Joe and Matilda close the diner early the night before and celebrate with their family – all the kids and grandkids.  Then on Thanksgiving they volunteer at the local shelter as a family; they’ve done it since the kids were very little.  It’s become a family tradition – some of the in-laws have even started joining them.”

“Wow,” Charisma said.  “That’s an amazing tradition.”

“And what a fabulous mindset to pass on to the next generation,” Brianna added.  “Imagine being able to see your children and grandchildren making a difference in the lives of others,” she added, losing herself in thought.

“Do you miss not having children, Bri?” Charisma asked softly.

“I don’t think so, no.  I’ve gotten the chance to enjoy your brother’s kids growing up and now there’s Adam for me to play with and enjoy.”  She shrugged.  “I don’t think I’d make a very good mother anyway... not given the example I had growing up.”

Charisma’s eyebrows crawled into her hairline.  “Should I tell my mother you think she’s a bad example?”

Brianna cringed and shook her head rapidly, thankful that both her head and her lip had healed during the week.  “No!!  I was grown when I met Okasa!  That’s not what I meant and you know it!”

“Yes, but the look on your face was pretty priceless,” Charisma teased.  Brianna just gawked at her, then stuck out her tongue.  Charisma just snorted.  Esmeralda decided it was time to remind them of her presence and cleared her throat, startling them.  “Oh God, Es... I’m so sorry.”

“Why?” she asked honestly.  “It was highly entertaining, but I‘m done here and wanted to say goodnight before I left.”

“Wait a sec, and we’ll walk out with you,” Brianna declared as she put her shoes back on with a groan and stood.  “Okay, that was a really stupid thing to do,” she said with a grimace.  Charisma winced.

“No kidding.  Where are the Danskins when you need them?”  She swallowed the last of her liquor and shivered, then took her glass and Brianna’s to the bathroom sink to wash them out.  In a moment they were all set and ready to go.

“OH!” Charisma exclaimed as she tucked her purse under her arm and picked up her briefcase.  “I was wondering if you,” motioning to both of them, “would like to try for another get together on Sunday.  Ame has already said she’ll come watch Adam for a little while if we need her too.  He’s been asking about the album since Mama and Papa left yesterday.  I think they kept him too busy to think about it before then.”

Esmeralda shrugged.  “I don’t think it will be a problem, but I need to check with Saphira.  It’s a short week for her so it should be fine.”

“Well, I’m headed that way so let me give you a ride and we can ask her while I’m there.  Don’t,” Charisma said, holding up her hand.  “I need to talk to Matilda about her chocolate cake.”  She looked at Brianna to forestall Esmeralda’s protest.  “What about you?”

“Depends... which part are you asking me about?”  Charisma frowned.  “Are you asking me about Sunday or tonight?”

“Oh... Sunday naturally.  Though never let it be said I got between a woman and her need for chocolate cake,” she added with a smile.  Brianna snorted.

“I seem to recall....”

“Eh,” Charisma held up a hand.  “No telling tales out of school, Brianna Brianna.  Now... about Sunday?”

“I’ll be there.”

They had reached the public elevators and Esmeralda pushed on by them with her cart, headed towards the service elevator.  They looked at her and then at one another.

“Can we ride down with you?”  Esmeralda just blinked and Brianna continued speaking.  “You can’t use these with that,” she stated, “and we know that.  And the cars are pretty close to your exit, correct?” smiling when Esmeralda nodded dumbly.  “So why don’t we just save a couple steps and a few minutes and just ride down with you.  That way we can be sure you get that ride.”

Esmeralda just chuckled.  “All right,” gesturing them to one side.  “You’re gonna want to let me get in with this thing first though.  It’s gonna be crowded, but at least that way, you’ll be able to back in and face the door.”

“Let’s do it,” Charisma said as the door dinged opened, and almost instantly they were loaded up and headed down.  The reaction when they stepped out into the service corridor was abrupt and entertaining.  The custodial manager rushed to greet them.

“Senator Walker... Senator Tagherty – is there a problem I can help you with?”  When he greeted them by name, every janitor and driver froze, not quite sure how to behave with hierarchy down in the catacombs.  Esmeralda just rolled her eyes and moved to her supply closet, carefully restocking before she put her cart away.  Charisma and Brianna just remained nearby, trying not to stare and make folks feel more uncomfortable with their presence than they already did.  Jas and Turq headed out to recover the limousines, knowing they would be necessary in a very few minutes.

“No Rick,” Brianna answered the man, having met him briefly the last time she’d been down here with Esmeralda.  “We’re just here with Es.”

Rick frowned and looked between them and Esmeralda.  “Is something wrong?” he asked again.  “Es?”

She glanced over at him and shook her head.  “Everything’s fine, Rick.  They want to go over to the diner to talk to Matilda about her chocolate cake, and since I’m headed that way they decided to give me a ride with them.”

His frown deepened into a scowl and he shook his head.  “That’s highly unusual,” he commented.  Now it was Charisma’s turn to frown.

“Is it a problem for you, Rick?” her words sharp and biting.

He snapped his head around at her tone, and suspected immediately that she was displeased about something.  He turned back to Esmeralda who shrugged and nodded her head in Charisma’s direction, knowing Charisma expected an answer from Rick and not her.  He cleared his throat.

“No, Senator Tagherty.  It’s not a problem,” he replied stiffly.  “It’s just never been done.”

Brianna smiled at him.  “Well, ‘tis the season and all that, right?  Since we’re headed that way anyway....”

He looked at Esmeralda, noting the pallor of her skin and the exhaustion in her eyes despite the smile she wore.  Rick nodded slowly.  “I suppose so,” he conceded.  “And it’s good of you to look out for Es like that.  She’s had a bit of a rough time, you know, so anything that makes things a little easier....”

Esmeralda glared at him.  “I’m standing right here, you know.”

He leered at her, then stepped behind Charisma and Brianna, peeking his head between them.  “I know.  I figure I’ve got big guns backing me up this time.

Esmeralda narrowed her eyes.  “That’s like cheating.”

“Um hmm – Saphira would be proud of me,” earning him muffled chuckles from not only Brianna and Charisma but also from several of the custodial and driving staff.

“I’m being ganged up on.”

“You’ll live,” Charisma assured her drolly.  “Now let’s move it.  I hear chocolate cake calling my name.”  She turned to Brianna.  “You want to send Jas home and just ride over with us?  I’m pretty sure we can get you home.”

“You’re pretty sure?”

“Yes.  I’m pretty sure.  How much do you trust me?” blue eyes twinkling.

Brianna studied her thoughtfully.  “I guess I’d have to say completely so let me go dismiss Jas and I’ll meet you at the car.”  She turned and walked off before Charisma could respond... not that she’d have had a clue what to say.  Still Charisma couldn’t stop the smile that tweaked the corners of her mouth.  She turned to Esmeralda who had finished her stocking and had locked her cart away for the duration.

“You ready, Es?”

“Yes, Senator.”  She didn’t even crack a smile when Charisma rolled her eyes, but dutifully followed her to the vehicle that had been pulled to the door.  Turq opened the car door and Charisma slid in, gasping in surprise to find Brianna already sitting inside.  Brianna grinned.

“Turq insisted.  She and Jas were waiting here and when I told Jas to go home and why, Turq put me in the car.”  Brianna wrinkled her forehead in thought.  “I think she actually would have done so physically if I’d refused to get in.”

“No,” Charisma assured her.  “But she would have stood there holding the door until you got in just to keep from feeling ridiculous.”  Esmeralda snorted and Charisma smirked.  Brianna just grinned.

“Happened to you before, I take it?”

“Oh yes.  We like to think we’re in control, but let’s face it – it’s the people around us who keep us going that are really in charge.”

“There’s something so wrong about that statement.”

“Yes, but there’s also a lot of truth to it too,” Charisma replied.  She turned to Esmeralda.  “You’re not going to get into trouble for us going downstairs with you, are you?”

“A little late to worry about it, Charisma,” Brianna responded drolly.  “I mean there’s not a lot we can do about it at this point without potentially making it worse.” 

Esmeralda held up her hands.  “All right, you two - enough,” seeing Charisma gearing up for an argument.  “You’re not gonna start fighting about this on my account.  Brianna’s right – it’s a little late to worry about it, but the fact is that it really doesn’t matter.  For one thing, we’re all going on holiday, and by the time we come back they will have mostly forgotten.  For another, you’re certainly not forbidden from being there.  It’s just we never get visitors from your level; it kinda threw everybody off-stride.”

“Why?”

“Because we get to be ourselves there,” Esmeralda offered with a shrug.  “It’s where we eat our meals and smoke our cigarettes and talk about our families and cheer for our favorite sports teams – none of the stuff we’re allowed to do upstairs. There are rules we have to follow when we're in your world.  And I'd venture to say that not a lot of the lower level staff has cultivated any sort of relationship with their… clients, for lack of a better word."

"Why?"

Esmeralda raised an eyebrow and both heads nodded.  She sighed.  "Mostly because a lot of the folks upstairs feel they are our betters.  It's all right to say hi or ask how we're doing, but they don't want to be our friends.  So we don't welcome them into our lives."

"Have they tried?" Charisma asked, forehead scrunched in thought.  "Surely…."

Esmeralda smiled gently.  "The world isn't a nice place Charisma… especially to people like me.  Most people look at me and they see poor white trash.  And when they find out I love another woman, it makes me less than the dirt on their shoes."

"That's not right!"

"No, it isn't, but it is life.  It shouldn't matter that I clean up behind people to make a living or that my mate is a woman like I am.  What should matter is that I work hard and pay my bills on time; that I talk to God diligently and am a loving, faithful mate to Saphira."

"How does you loving another woman make you a bad person, Esmeralda?  And what is wrong with honest, hard work that people look down their noses at you for doing it?"

"You're asking the wrong person, Charisma.  I just know how things work in my world."

Brianna tilted her head.  "Do you think your world is so different from ours?"

Esmeralda returned her look thoughtfully.  "In many ways, no.  But in some ways….  People with money and power make the rules, Brianna.  And they get treated differently because of it.  I can't say if it's better; I don't know.  But if I was a betting person, I would say it probably is to some extent."

"How so?" 

"People don't question your right to be somewhere or do something because you're seen as somebody.  You probably have never had someone look down their nose at you because of what you do or what you wear or who you're with.  If I was in your place, my relationship with Saphira would titillate, not offend.  Not that I want my relationship with her to become some sort of front page sensation, but people would be intrigued by us because we were rich and powerful."

"Do you really think so?"

"Yes," Esmeralda replied without hesitation.  Then they were pulling up at the diner and Turq was opening the door.  "I'd be willing to bet that if your colleagues had met Saphira and me before the Father dismissed us, we'd have been welcomed with open arms."  She took Turq's hand to help her from the car, leaving two thoughtful Senators behind her.


Chapter LI

"What did you do to them?" Saphira asked quietly as she approached the car.  Turq had called and warned Saphira they were coming so Saphira had been waiting at the door watching for them when the limousine pulled up.  She'd waited a moment, watching Esmeralda slowly emerge and had come out to greet her.  Turq was still standing by the open car door.  "I thought they were coming in with you."

Esmeralda frowned.  "So did I actually.  Give me a sec?" she asked and Saphira nodded.  Esmeralda walked back around to stick her head in the door.  She cleared her throat, bringing two sets of eyes swinging in her direction.  "Are the two of you coming in or should I say goodnight here?"

"What?  Oh… I didn't realize," Charisma said. 

Brianna blinked.  "Me either."

Esmeralda shook her head.  "It wasn't that profound, really.  Now c'mon… Matilda has chocolate cake waiting."  Esmeralda backed away from the door quickly when she realized their intent.  Charisma and Brianna scrambled out of the vehicle so quickly Turq barely had a chance to offer them a hand. Then they came around the back of the car to greet Saphira.  Charisma turned to Turq.

"Come with us, Turq."

"Oh, no ma'am… I couldn't."

"Does the snobbery thing work both ways?" she asked Esmeralda before turning back to Turq.

"Ma'am?"

"Just once, forget the rules.  If it makes you feel better, no one will know except for us."  Charisma saw Turq's eyes shift behind her for a bare moment and wondered if she had been seeking permission because when they fastened on her again, Turq nodded her agreement.

"Thank you for the invitation, Senator."  Then they were walking inside together and Saphira locked the door behind them.

Matilda walked around the counter when they crossed the threshold.  If she was surprised by the number of people walking in the door of her technically closed diner, she didn't even blink to show it.  Instead she held out her arms to Esmeralda and offered her a hug.  She did the same to Brianna though with a much briefer embrace.  Then she turned back to Esmeralda.

"Introduce me to my new friends, Essie.  I know Brianna, but this is…?"

"Matilda, this is Senator Charisma Tagherty and my friend Turq."

Matilda's eyes twinkled in delight.  "Senator Tagherty, it's nice to make your acquaintance.  And Turq…"  She wrinkled her brow in thought.  "You look familiar to me.  Have you been here before?"

"Yes, ma'am.  Es recommended your pot roast so I've been in once or twice for that."

"Did you enjoy it?"

Turq cleared her throat and blushed.  "As often as I can manage, ma'am."

"My name is Matilda, Turq.  Only old folks get called ma'am around here, ya got it?"

"Yes ma'am… um, Matilda."  Matilda just laughed. 

"Don't worry about it Turq.  You were obviously raised right."

"My mama will be glad to hear that."

Matilda laughed again and directed them towards the counter.  "Now what can I do for you ladies tonight?  We don't have much, I'm afraid."

"Please tell me there's chocolate cake?" Brianna practically whined.  "Charisma had to go and mention it earlier and I've been jonesing for it ever since."

"Well, Brianna - you're in luck.  I happened to make one earlier to have it for the lunch crowd tomorrow.  Guess I'll be making another one in the morning, won't I?"  She turned to Charisma.  "And you, Senator Tagherty?  What can I get for you?"

"I'd like it very much if you'd call me Charisma, Matilda.  Otherwise I feel very much the odd woman out here."  Matilda nodded.

"Of course, Charisma.  Thank you.  I've learned not to assume that privilege in this town."

"I can understand why.  I'd like the chocolate cake as well.  And I'd like to talk to you about ordering about a half dozen more of them," smiling when Matilda's eyebrows shot up into her hairline.  "I'm taking Es' word on faith.  She swears it's the best thing going."

Matilda smiled at Esmeralda before turning back to Charisma.  "Well, I'll admit it's pretty damn good, but I'm pretty sure six of them will make you hurl your guts, Charisma.  It wouldn't be pretty."

Charisma blinked.  "Oh… ew, no.  I'd like them for next weekend.  We're going to my parents for the holiday and I figure that should be enough for the entire family.  My brothers have teenagers - mostly teenage boys," as if that explained it all.  And for Matilda it seemed to as she nodded her head sagely.

"In that case… when do you need them by?"

"Wednesday morning?"  She looked at Brianna.  "Would you mind swinging by here and picking them up on your way?"

"Not at all.  Es?" finally noting that Esmeralda and Saphira were seated at one end of the counter, quietly eating the meal Saphira had split between them.  Saphira nudged her and jerked her head in Brianna's direction, and Esmeralda refocused her gaze.

"I'm sorry, Brianna - what did I miss?"

"Charisma was wondering if we could pick up the cakes she's ordering from Matilda on Wednesday morning on our way out of town.”  Esmeralda's eyes widened and she swallowed.  "Of course, Brianna - whatever you want to do.  Saphira and I are just along for the ride."

"You're along for much more than that," Brianna and Charisma declared in tandem, then stared at one another in startlement.  The rest chuckled softly and it broke the tableau, causing Brianna and Charisma to smile.

"Great," Matilda said clapping her hands together excitedly.  "Now that we have that settled, what can I get for you Turq?"

"I'll have the same, ma'am… Matilda."

Matilda turned and reached towards the window, swiping the three plates of cake Joe had put there as soon as he'd heard the orders.  Matilda set them in front of her impromptu guests, then turned and pulled three glasses of milk from the big machine behind the counter.  All three women looked at her.  Matilda just raised an eyebrow.

"You must be related to my mother," Charisma mumbled.  Matilda snorted.

"You really want to try arguing about it?" she offered, setting a glass down in front of each of them.  They shook their heads and muttered "No, ma'am," then dug into their cake, moaning aloud when the taste of chocolate fudge hit their tongues.  Then she laughed when they all grabbed for their milk, draining half the glass.

"I'm really glad I didn't argue," Charisma commented to Brianna in an aside loud enough she knew the rest would hear.

"Yeah, we might not get a refill, and I’m pretty sure I'm going to need one."  Then they focused their attention on eating and Matilda moved over to check on Esmeralda and Saphira.

"How ya doing, Essie?"

"Better," she replied instantly.  "Where's Joe?"

"Saphira told us your Senator friends were coming, and he skedaddled to the kitchen.  I think he's feeling a little outnumbered."

Esmeralda snorted.  "He's always outnumbered when I'm here.  There are three of us and one of him."

"Yes, but now there are six of us and two of them are lawmakers.  It's a little daunting for him."

"He should give them a chance, Matilda.  They've never once made me feel like they look down on me, and I don't have any more education than he does.  And he had a distinguished career in the military.  That counts for a lot too."

"You try telling him, Es.  Maybe he'll take it better from you."

Saphira rolled her eyes.  "Or I could just drag him out here by his ear."

"Saphira!!" Esmeralda's exclamation drew the attention of the others.  Saphira raised her hands as if she didn't know why Esmeralda was calling her down and Esmeralda nudged her.  Saphira nudged back and surprisingly Brianna was the one to raise her fork at them and point.

"Don't make me come over there and separate the two of you."  She turned to Charisma with horror in her eyes.  "Oh my God - I've become your mother!!"

Charisma howled in laughter at the pronouncement, and the rest weren’t that far behind her.  Finally when she could speak again, she motioned to the empty milk glasses.  "Garcon… another round, please.  I need milk to wash this down and it's too good to leave on the plate.  Besides, aren't you ready for us to leave so you can go home as well?"

"Well," Matilda acknowledged as she drew three more glasses of milk, "I will be very happy to crawl into bed tonight as I am every night.  But if I was to be completely honest, I haven't had this much free entertainment in a while."

Brianna exchanged a wry look with Charisma.  "Great - at least we know if this whole political thing doesn't work out, we can take our act on the road."

"Yeah," Turq agreed as she scooped up her last bite of cake.  "But would people pay to see you?  That's the big question."  Brianna stuck out her tongue.  Matilda and Charisma laughed.  Esmeralda and Saphira just watched bemusedly.

************

"Okay, so what voodoo did you do on those two?" Saphira asked an hour or so later when they were comfortably ensconced in their bed.  "They're like totally different people."

Esmeralda shook her head.  "It's not me.  It’s all them."

"Amazing.  They're actually acting like… I dunno - friends?  Certainly more than colleagues."

"I think they are friends.  They're having to relearn how to be best friends."  She sighed and clicked off the lamp, then snuggled deeper into Saphira's arms.  "I think Sunday will be very telling."

"Because of the album?"

"Yeah.  That's a huge risk for both of them.  For Charisma because she doesn't want to see what's there, and I'm pretty sure given what Amber has said that there are some very personal pictures in there.  And for Brianna because she does know what's there and she can't do anything about it until Charisma acknowledges it to herself first."

"Oh what a tangled web we weave…."

"Especially when we're practicing to deceive ourselves.  However," she added, then paused to yawn.  "If we're really lucky, Sunday will have to be the last time we'll need to chaperone.  Hopefully they will be comfortable enough together that they will be able to be alone without us between them."

Saphira frowned.  "You all right, Es?”

"Yeah," Esmeralda said sleepily.  "Why'd you ask?"

Saphira shrugged, but before Esmeralda could push her on it, she drew a deep breath to speak.  "I dunno.  I didn't realize you were as anxious to be done with this assignment as I am - as I have been since we started, truth be told," she added with a mutter.  Esmeralda chuckled silently.

"I know, Phira.  This kind of work is totally unsuited to your personality.  You've done very well… better than I would if our positions were reversed, I think."  She reached up and put a finger to Saphira's lips, smiling when she felt a kiss being brushed against them.  "Trust me, Phira.  This I'm sure about.  I could never do what you do - I don't have that kind of strength or courage."

Saphira removed Esmeralda's hand from her mouth, though she still held onto it when she spoke.  "You don't have that kind of anger, and that's a good thing, Sweetheart.  The world will never be ready for more than one of me.  However, that still doesn't answer my question about why you're so anxious to be done with this mission."

Even though it was dark in the room, Saphira could hear the smile in Esmeralda's voice.  "Phira, I'm always ready to have an assignment over with when I can start to see the finish line.  Doesn't mean I'm gonna change the way things are being handled or I'm gonna knock heads together; just means I am starting to see the end."

"And it makes you antsy?"

"Yeah.  Sometimes Amber has to remind me it's not my timing… it's His, and I just have to be patient and let things happen in His time.  Even when I can tell there's a ways to go before things reach whatever conclusion they're going to, once I have an ending in sight I kinda tend to want to rush right to it."

"Hallelujah!" Saphira muttered, causing Esmeralda to lean up and look down at her, knowing Saphira could see her expression even in the darkened room.  Saphira kept her eyes conveniently closed, however, and Esmeralda had to resort to poking her.  Saphira scowled and growled, finally opening an eyeball to glare at Esmeralda.  "Whaaaaaat?"

"Would you like to explain why I just heard something that sounded suspiciously like praise come out of your mouth?  Phira, you haven't praised anything since we were thrown out."

"My praise, as you call it, was directly in reference to you, Es, and nothing else."

"Oooookay," Esmeralda drawled.  "Would you like to finish that thought for me?" after an extended period of silence.  Saphira sighed, knowing Esmeralda wouldn't let it go until she 'fessed up.

"Fine," she sighed aggrievedly.  "I was happy to find you’re as human - so to speak - as the rest of us.  It's good to know you get impatient too."

Esmeralda rolled her eyes and snorted.  "Saphira… how long have we been together?  You KNOW I'm not all that patient."

"Maybe not in some things, Es, but when it comes to this... when it comes to doing your job and getting a good result for your charges, I haven't seen you be anything but patient.  Amber may have to remind you from time to time, but you're all about giving them the time and space to work things out for themselves while I would just as soon beat it into them."

Esmeralda chuckled.  "But you also hear me bitching and griping."

"Es, we all bitch and gripe.  But you never force it along to make it go faster.  Besides, I'm also glad you didn't want it to be over because you needed the time off."

Esmeralda cupped Saphira's face gently in her hands.  "Phira, I am getting better.  I'll be the first to admit that I'm glad for this break.  But I'm getting better."

Saphira took Esmeralda's hands in hers and tugged until they were lying curled up together again.  "Keep reminding me, Es."

"For all the rest of our lives together," Esmeralda promised with a smile and a kiss.  In moments they were both asleep.


Chapter LII

When the phone rang on Saturday morning, Brianna glared at it balefully.  She was beginning to think there was some sort of law in this town specifically that prevented her from sleeping in on what was supposed to be her day off.  Still not many people had this number so she sighed deeply and lifted the receiver from the cradle and put it to her ear.

“‘Lo?”

“Brianna?” her name whispered low.  Brianna frowned and eased up onto one elbow, pushing her hair out of her eyes and blinking rapidly to try and stimulate some sort of higher brain function.

“Who is this?”

“It’s Saphira.  Look, I’m sorry to call you so early, but I thought you’d want to know as soon as possible - Es and I won’t be able to be at Charisma’s tomorrow.”

Brianna sat up and turned on the bedside lamp.  “Is everything all right?”

“Relatively speaking.  I figure it’s more important that we are at your mother-in-law’s for the holiday, right?” not even giving Brianna the chance to correct her slip.  “I don’t know if you’ve seen the weather forecast for the weekend, but I really don’t want Es out in it... not with us supposed to join your family later this week.”

“Is there anything I can do?  Not to change your mind,” she added hastily when she heard Saphira draw a deep breath.  “But something to help?”

“I’m not sure what that would be, Brianna... honestly.”

“What if I brought lunch and spent some time visiting with Esmeralda?”

“I’ll leave her a note to call you - she’s not up yet, and I have to go into work early today.  Ruby’s off for the next few days so I’m picking up the slack.”

Brianna frowned.  “That seems a little wrong - shouldn’t you be the one getting some time off?”

“Ruby has other family to be concerned with, Brianna.  Besides, it’s only a few days... piece of cake.”

Brianna shook her head, even though she knew Saphira couldn’t see her.  “You’re a little bit crazy, Saphira - you know that right?”

Saphira snorted.  “Es has been telling me that for years.”  She hesitated.  “Listen, Brianna, I’ve really am sorry about all this, but I’ve got to get to work.  I’ll leave Es a note, all right?”

“You do that, Saphira.  And try to stay out of the weather yourself.  Es doesn’t need you getting sick.  We’ll see you in a few days?”

“Count on it, Brianna.  Bye now,” Saphira offered before hanging up.  Brianna looked at the phone blaring out a dial tone and hung it up, then she dropped back onto her pillow.  With a little luck, she’d be able to get a little more sleep before needing to crawl out from beneath the warmth of the covers.

************

It wasn’t much later that same morning when Charisma took one good look out the window and realized it was going to be one of those days; there was no way she going to take Adam out in the mess that was outside today.  At least now she understood what Saphira had been talking about when she’d called earlier.  She scrubbed a hand through her hair and sighed before clasping her hands together and leaning her chin on them.

“Problem, Charisma?” came an unexpected voice from the doorway.  Charisma met her husband’s concerned eyes and shook her head. 

“Just bemoaning the weather,” she replied as she stood.  “What are you doing here?” giving him a slight, uneasy smile.  She came out from behind her desk, snatching the monitor before guiding him away from her study and towards the kitchen.  The distinct snick of the lock as she closed the door ripped at Kent’s composure just slightly, but in Charisma’s preoccupation she didn’t even notice.  “Not that you shouldn’t be here - Adam will be thrilled to have you home.”

“And you, Charisma?”

“Of course, I’m glad you’re home if it’s by your choice,” Charisma assured him with a squeeze to his hand.  Then she released it as she moved over to the coffee maker and raised an eyebrow.  He nodded and she set it to brewing even as she asked, “Is everything all right?  I thought things were going well with your production.”

“The production’s fine.  After your phone call last weekend, I decided to take a little extra time off this week.”

“Oh, Kent... you didn’t need to do that.  We’re fine.  I don’t think Adam even remembers it.”

“I wanted to,” he said stubbornly and Charisma spared him another odd glance before nodding her agreement.

“Well, would you like to go get your son up?” she asked with a nod of her head towards the monitor that sat on the counter.  “He sounds like he about ready.”

“Sure... be right back.”  Kent headed upstairs and into his son’s room while Charisma listened in below.

“Da!” Adam exclaimed with delight, holding his arms up when Kent walked into the room.

“Hey, Boy! Did you miss me?” hefting him up with a groan.  “God, you’re getting heavy.  Mama been feeding you rocks?”

Adam giggled as Kent blew raspberries on his neck and belly, then wrapped his arms around Kent’s neck.  “Da funny.  Adam Mama’s big boy,” he said proudly.

Kent’s brow furrowed.  He knew that Adam was his mama’s boy, but having it stated so plainly by Adam twisted something in his gut.  Still Adam’s hands on his face made him smile and he tickled his son briefly to listen to him howl in laughter.  “So she is feeding you rocks,” Kent teased with a pained smile.  “Well, let’s go potty, then we can see what kind of rocks Mama is planning for breakfast, huh?”

Adam squealed and raced to the bathroom as soon as Kent put him down.  Kent followed at a much more leisurely pace.  Charisma just shook her head and finished making Adam’s oatmeal.

************

It was much later than usual when Esmeralda blinked her eyes open in the semi-darkness of their bedroom.  A glance at the clock told her immediately that Saphira had already left for what would be a double shift at the diner.  Ruby had been called home as had Opal and Indi.  Apparently He had need of them elsewhere while they were on break during this assignment.  Esmeralda just shook her head.  Even she was beginning to think He was being more than a little unfair in His treatment of them... all of them.  They were all supposed to remain in place until the assignment was complete; instead part of them had been pulled away and left the rest to pick up the slack.  Esmeralda only hoped Mal and Jade didn’t get yanked as well.

She stretched luxuriously, the sound of paper crinkling when her arm hit Saphira’s pillow.  She rolled over and flipped on the bedside light, then reached for the paper and her glasses at the same time.

         Dear Es, (it read)

         I talked to both Brianna and Charisma this morning to let them know we wouldn’t be there tomorrow.  The weather today is bad and it’s supposed to be worse tomorrow.  We can’t risk it if we’re going to go to Okasa’s house this week, and I think that is probably more important than babysitting for Charisma and Brianna.
         Stop glaring - you know I’m right.
         Anyway, if you think you might want some company for lunch, give Brianna a call.  She offered - I didn’t ask just so you know.  Frankly I think she may be a little lonely or maybe a little confused.  I don’t know.  But I do know if you feel up to it she’ll come over and spend the day with you.
         I’ll see you tonight, Love, but don’t wait up.  It’ll be late.
         I love you, Esmeralda... everyday a little more.

         Saphira

Esmeralda smiled as she got to the end of Saphira’s note.  Though everyone including the Father knew of Saphira’s strength and ferocity, only Esmeralda saw the soft touch her warrior could be.  She tucked the note into the drawer of the stand beside her. She stretched again and slowly sat up, sliding her legs from the bed.  She got up and headed into the bathroom, frowning as she reviewed Saphira’s words about Brianna.  First she’d take a shower, then she’d give Brianna a call. 

************

Brianna was walking along the Mall, wondering at her wisdom in being out in the weather after she had decided Esmeralda didn’t want company for the day.  She didn’t want to be stuck inside by herself, but this was kind of ridiculous... especially since she hadn’t bothered to call Jas.  So she ducked into the nearest museum just as her phone buzzed.

“Walker.”

“Um... Brianna?  It’s Esmeralda.  I know it’s kinda late, but I was wondering if you were still available for lunch.”

“Oh hey, Es.  Yes!  Yes, please.  I’d count it as a favor,” she added a little louder as thunder rolled around her. 

Esmeralda pulled the phone from her ear to look at it a moment before she put it back up.  “Brianna?  Um, where are you?”

“The Smithsonian.  I had just stepped into the Museum of Natural History when you called.”

“Oh.  Well, I’m sorry I distur....”

“NO!  No don’t be sorry.  You’re not disturbing me at all.  Really.  Most of my colleagues have already left the capital to go home for the holidays and this weather makes me a little stir crazy.”

Esmeralda laughed softly.  “I can empathize with that.  C’mon over.  I’ll put the soup on. It should be hot by the time you get here.”

“I told Saphira I’d bring lunch.”

“Yes, and the last time we invited you over, you brought lunch with you.”

“Es, you have to let me bring something.”

Esmeralda bit her lip thoughtfully.  “Well,” she finally relented, “if you can figure out how to get some fresh bread here to go with our soup, I’d appreciate it.”

“All right.  I should be there in about half an hour.  Depends on how long it takes Jas to get here.  See you soon!”  Brianna ended the call before Esmeralda could respond, and she only had to wait a moment before she heard Jas’ phone ringing upstairs and then Jas bounding down the stairs.

“Yes ma’am, Senator Walker.  I’ll be right there,” Jas said as she reached the bottom landing, then hung up her phone.  “I’ll be back shortly with the other boss, Boss,” she offered with a crooked smile.  Esmeralda just returned the look with one of bemusement.

“Um... Jas?  Don’t you think you should... I dunno - change first maybe?” motioning to Jas’ comfortable lounging-around-the-house clothes.

“She told me to come as I was and be quick about it - not to worry about what I was wearing.”  Jas grabbed her coat and umbrella from the closet and donned the one before opening the door and expanding the umbrella just outside it.  She chuckled.  “Coulda been worse - I could have still been in my pajamas.”

Esmeralda nodded and laughed, knowing Jas was right.  More than once she and Turq had both been unready when the phone rang.  It didn’t happen often, and now they at least put on clothing around the house as opposed to a bathrobe.  They could be seen outside in sweats and jeans - negligees and robes were a little more noticeable when you actually had to be seen in public.

“You’re right,” Esmeralda agreed.  “It almost has been once or twice.  Be quick, Jas, but be careful.”

“I will.  Be back shortly.”

“I’ll be here.”  And with that, Jas started the car and headed towards the city center to pick up Brianna.

************

Charisma watched Kent play with Adam for a while in the family room, before she rose.  Adam instantly stopped playing and ran over to wrap his arms around her legs.  “Mama, where going?”

“I’m going to go take care of a little work, Son.  You stay here and play with Daddy.”

“What would you have done if I hadn’t been here to watch him, Charisma?”

“Same thing I do every other weekend you’re not here, Kent,” she replied tiredly.  “Taken him into the study with me.  But since you’re here, and he hasn’t seen you for a while....”  She let the thought trail off.

“Why don’t you stay with us, Charisma?  It’s not like your work is pressing right now and we have so little time together as a family.”

Charisma sighed.  It seemed like they went through this every time Kent came back from being out of town for any length of time.  He should know better by now.  “I won’t be long, Kent, but I need to get this done before we head home on Monday.”

“Yeah, about that - why don’t we leave now?  You know your mother would be thrilled to have us home for a couple extra days.”

Charisma thought about the album viewing ‘date’ she and Adam had scheduled with Brianna for the following morning.  Part of her was loath to give that up, but the other part wondered if it might be better to delay it.  She wasn’t certain how Kent and Brianna would react to each other... especially when Kent saw how Adam responded to Brianna so naturally.  At least at her mother’s home, they would keep their company manners.  It would give her an idea on whether having them both in her home at the same time was a good idea.

“Charisma?” Kent called out with only a hint of impatience.  “Did you hear me?”

Charisma blinked and shook her head, then met Kent’s eyes.  “Yes... I’m sorry.  I was mentally trying to rearrange a few things.  Let me take care of my work and see if I can rearrange a couple things I had scheduled for tomorrow.  If I can get that done, we can go up this afternoon if you want.”

Kent nodded, smiling.  “Good.  I’m looking forward to this holiday.”

Charisma returned his smile.  “I am too,” she said honestly.  “Seems like forever since I saw the whole family.”

“Okay - go do your work or whatever,” Kent answered, making shooing motions with his hands.  “Adam and I’ll go see about getting our stuff packed up.  Yours ready to go?”

“Mostly.  I’ll add the few things I need as soon as I get done.  I’ll be on my cell if you want to call Mama and let her know to expect us.  You know how she feels about being sprung upon,” added with a smirk. 

Kent chuckled.  “Yeah.  Now shoo - the boy and me have got this covered.”

Charisma laughed and headed out of the family room.  “Don’t forget to call your mother as well,” she reminded.  Kent’s brows went into his hairline, then he looked at his son. 

“C’mon Boy - we’ve got work to do so we can go see your Gramma and Pop Pop and your Grandmother.”

“Br’anna too?”

Kent’s brow furrowed.  “How about you tell me about Brianna, Adam?  Daddy hasn’t met Brianna yet.”

“Br’anna good.  Adam love Br’anna.”

“C’mon, son.  Let’s go upstairs and get ready to go.  You can tell me all about Brianna Walker.”


Chapter LIII

“Brianna!” Esmeralda exclaimed as she opened the door to find a wet, bedraggled senator standing at her door.  She reached out an arm and pulled Brianna inside, waving to Jas as she eased the car from the drive.  Esmeralda offered Brianna a warm, dry towel even as she helped her out of her coat.  Brianna accepted the towel as she slipped out of her outer garment, thankful it had kept most of her relatively dry.  Her shoes, however....  Esmeralda hung the coat and took the loaf of French bread, then grabbed Brianna by the elbow and tugged her towards the kitchen.  “C’mon,” she invited.  “It’s warmest in the kitchen.”

They entered the kitchen and Brianna took a deep breath.  “It smells really good in here.”

“Thanks,” Esmeralda grinned.  “It’s Saphira’s favorite.  Take off your shoes,” she instructed, placing the bread on the counter and slipping into her room, only to return a moment later with a pair of dry, woolen socks.  Esmeralda raised her eyebrows at Brianna when she realized the other woman hadn’t moved.  “Your shoes?”

Brianna looked down at her feet.  “What about them?”

Esmeralda shook her head.  “Take them off and put these on,” she said, passing Brianna the socks.  “Here,” she added, handing Brianna another towel.  “Dry your feet real good.  I’m gonna take these and see if we can’t get them dry before you head home,” holding up the soggy socks and shoes.  “Be right back.”

“Ahh,” Brianna exclaimed as she eased the long socks onto her feet.  “That feels like heaven.”

“Not quite, but close,” Esmeralda chuckled as she returned to the kitchen.  She poured Brianna a cup of coffee.  “Do you take cream or sugar?”

“If it’s available, yes.  I learned to drink coffee in many different forms during my tenure with the DA’s office.  I swear what I got in some precincts would be considered ‘rot gut’ only if you were feeling generous.”

Esmeralda made a face.  “Well, I don’t think my coffee is bad, but I do have cream and sugar.  I take lots of both myself.”  She wrinkled her nose.  “I don’t like the taste of coffee much.”

“I’d rather have chocolate milk myself, but this is good coffee, Es,” raising her cup.  “And just what I needed to warm me up.  Man, it’s nasty out there today.  Saphira wasn’t kidding.”

“Do I wanna ask how you got so wet?”

“Um... no.  I don’t want a lecture.”

Esmeralda raised her eyebrow.  “That bad, hmm?”

“Let’s just say that as a lawyer I recognize the importance of keeping my own counsel in certain circumstances.”

Esmeralda just smirked and shook her head, then stepped closer to the stove.  She ladled some soup into two bowls, setting one in front of Brianna and putting the other at the place beside her.  Then she took the bread and sliced it quickly and efficiently, causing Brianna’s eyebrows to jerk into her hairline in surprise.  “What?” Esmeralda asked in confusion at the expression on Brianna’s face.  She set the bread between them and grabbed the small plate of butter from the fridge.  She poured herself a glass of milk and topped off Brianna’s coffee, then took her seat.

Brianna shook her head.  “Nothing.  I didn’t realize you had been a waitress as well as a custodian.”

Esmeralda chuckled.  “Not me.  I’ve just learned a few tricks from Saphira over the years.”

“She must be a great teacher then.  I don’t think a machine could have made it any more even,” Brianna commented as she picked up a slice of bread and buttered it.

“Oh, that....” Esmeralda laughed.  “I learned that when I was younger,” not going into specifics.  “Thank you for braving the weather to come visit today.  You didn’t have to.”

“I know,” Brianna agreed, moaning when the taste of the soup hit her tongue.  “But it was either throw myself on your kindness or eat Fig Newtons for lunch.”

Esmeralda snorted.  “You have GOT to go shopping, Brianna.”

“I know, I know.  I’ll pick up a few things on the way home.  I just didn’t see any sense in stocking up right before going home for a few days.”

“Are you looking forward to it?” Esmeralda asked curiously since Brianna’s voice was devoid of emotion.

“Mostly, yes.  At some point it’ll give me a chance to see a few people and catch up with my friends.  I have a small circle of female friends who I try to get together with once a month or so.  We have dinner and go to a movie or show; or we do something outdoorsy - you know... hiking or spelunking or diving.  I’ve really missed that since I’ve been here.  You can’t know how thankful I’ve been for your and Saphira’s presence in my life here.”

“I’ll bet.  I know how it feels to be stuck inside for weeks on end with only yourself for company.”

“Well, I have managed a short phone call to each of my friends at some point and they’ve returned the courtesy, but it just isn’t the same as being there together in person, you know?”

“Yeah... I do know.  Miss anyone special?” biting her lip when Brianna’s head snapped up in surprise.  “C’mon, Brianna - you’re a beautiful, intelligent, successful woman.  Those are attractive qualities to everyone.  Do you mean to sit there and tell me that no one else has noticed that?  That Charisma is the only person to hold a special place in your heart?”

“Charisma is the only person to hold THAT special place in my heart; it’s why nothing else has ever really worked out.  But there have been one or two women who were important to me in their own way, and yes, they are part of my inner circle so to speak.  We all parted on good terms and chose to remain friends.”  Brianna frowned hard.  “Why the sudden curiosity?”

Esmeralda bit her lip.  “In many ways you remind me of myself.  But in one very important thing you seem to be much like my Saphira.  She isolates herself sometimes, and I think whether you intended to or not you’ve let yourself become somewhat isolated here.”

Brianna reached over and squeezed Esmeralda’s hand with a smile.  “Don’t you ever go changing, Es.  You remind me very much of Kay.  She was my first lover,” she continued, reading the question clearly in Esmeralda’s eyes.

“I remind you of your first lover?” Esmeralda’s eyes grew wide.  Brianna laughed.

“Not in the way you think, Es.  Physically you and Kay are very different, but in here,” pointing to Esmeralda’s head, “and here,” pointing to her heart, “you are very much alike.  You draw people to you with your caring and genuine concern.  There’s something about both of you that makes people believe in you... trust you to keep them safe.”  She chuckled.  “Don’t be embarrassed, Es... it’s a good thing.  The world could use more people like you two in it.  It would be a much better place.”

Esmeralda ducked her head to hide the red flush she could feel creeping up her neck.  “I don’t know if that’s all true, Brianna, but I’m flattered you think so.”  She took a deep breath. “So what happened between you and Kay, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“Charisma, more than anything else.  I was still young and hurting over losing her from my life and Kay was my rebound relationship.”  Brianna sighed.  “We wouldn’t have worked in the long run anyway for several reasons,” she confessed. “But part of me will always love Kay.  She was my first and she taught me a lot - not just about the ways of love and lust but about life itself.”

“Who broke it off?”

“It was mutual.  I couldn’t stop dreaming of Charisma and she was falling in love with a man.”

“Really?”

Brianna smiled.  “Yeah, Kay is truly a bisexual woman - she’s enjoyed good relationships with both sexes.  And he’s a wonderful guy - good husband, great father.  Lee and I are actually good friends.  Kay deserved someone who could love her like Lee does and she’s totally devoted to him.  They have a lovely family together, and they include me as often as I can join them.”

“And she knows about Charisma?”

Brianna nodded.  “Aside from those immediately involved, including you and Saphira, she’s the only one who knows the whole truth.  Apparently I talk in my sleep.  It’s how she learned about Charisma in the first place, and I wasn’t going to lie to her when she asked.”

“I would like to meet her,” Esmeralda said spontaneously, then bit her lip.  Brianna smiled.

“I’ll see what I can do.  She earned the Tagherty seal of approval,” she added wiggling her eyebrows.  Before Esmeralda could comment, Brianna’s phone buzzed.  She glanced at the screen.   “It’s Charisma,” she relayed with a frown.  “Let me take this real quick.”

“Go on,” Esmeralda instructed, shooing her off.  “Go to the living room.  I’ll join you as soon as I clean up in here.”  Brianna nodded as she clicked the phone on and raised it to her ear on her way out the kitchen door. She was back before Esmeralda had the dishes done.  “Problem?” Esmeralda asked over her shoulder as she caught a glimpse of the expression on Brianna’s face.

“Hmm?” Brianna replied, shaking her head to clear it.  “Oh... no, not really.  Charisma called to cancel tomorrow.  It seems Kent came home from the theatre earlier than expected, and they’ve decided to spend the extra time at the Tagherty homestead.”

“And how do you feel about that?”

“Relieved,” Brianna admitted instantly.  “I mean part of me really wants to see those pictures... to know what Charisma sees when she looks at them.”  She picked up a towel and started drying as Esmeralda turned to wipe the table and counters down.  “The other part of me isn’t sure I’m ready for that.”

Esmeralda nodded.  “What about Kent?”

Brianna bit her lip thoughtfully, her drying slowing to almost nil as she reflected on Esmeralda’s question.  Her hands picked up speed again as she brought her eyes back to meet Esmeralda’s.  “If I am completely honest, I’d like to hate him.  After all, he is my rival and he has what I want most in the world... a love and a home with Charisma.  That being said - I really don’t know him beyond the fact that he is Charisma’s husband and Adam’s father.  And if he makes her happy and takes care of his son, well... it’s kind of hard to fault that.”

“And how do you feel about meeting him this week?”

“Actually I’m kind of looking forward to it.  I’d like to know what kind of man finally captured Charisma’s heart.  And I know that Okasa will keep us both honest.”

“I have to say I’m looking forward to meeting her.  She sounds like a formidable woman.”

“She is,” Brianna assured her.  “And to see her and Kay together....”  She shook her head.  “It made for some interesting holidays... especially with the boys around to egg them on.”

“Sounds like Saphira and I have a lot to look forward to.”

“You have no idea.”

Esmeralda chuckled.  “I can’t wait.”

“Me either,” Brianna laughed.  “I love spending holidays with the Tagherty clan.  Even without Charisma there... there’s just something about getting them all together that makes it a lot of fun.  And they’re going to love you two.”

“You think so?”

“Oh, Es... I know it.”  She accepted the cup Esmeralda offered her and they headed out of the kitchen.  “So tell me more about you and Saphira,” Brianna asked as they took seats in the living room.  “Were you really childhood sweethearts?”

“Is it so hard to believe?”

“Don’t take this the wrong way, but really?  Yes, it is.  That kind of love - that kind of bond - doesn’t seem to actually exist these days... not for anyone.”

Esmeralda smiled shyly.  “Doesn’t it, Brianna?  Isn’t it exactly the kind of love you feel for Charisma?”

“We were never childhood sweethearts, Es.  We’ve never been sweethearts at all.”

“But the love you have... that you’ve held in your heart for over twenty years - Brianna, it’s the same thing.  The difference is that Saphira and I were very lucky.”

“Do you think so?”

“That Saphira and I were very lucky?  I know we are, Brianna.  How many people find the love of their life as a child AND manage to keep it into and throughout their lives?  But I know... I’m sure in my heart of hearts... that we are not the only people in the world who have known that kind of love or who have held onto that kind of love for years.  What about your grandparents?  You said they were married for forty-seven years.”

“They were, and they were devoted to one another, but I’m not sure it’s the same thing you and Saphira have.”

Esmeralda propped her arm on the back of the couch and leaned her head on her hand.  “What do you think makes it different aside from the fact that Saphira and I are two women?”

“I don’t think that matters,” Brianna replied, her gaze going inward.  “You and Saphira are a part of one another.  It’s like you are two parts of one whole.  I’m not sure how else to explain it,” holding up a hand to keep Esmeralda from commenting.  “I’m not sure I’ve ever seen anything like it even with my grandparents.”

“Saphira and I are two parts of one whole - we’re soulmates.”

“Soulmates?  I’m not sure I have ever heard that term before.”

“It means we are together not just in one another’s hearts but also in our souls.  When she hurts, I bleed.”

“See?  That’s what I mean!  Esmeralda, that’s not normal.  Most people don’t know that kind of connection with another person... EVER.”

Esmeralda pinched the bridge of her nose between her thumb and forefinger, wondering how on earth she’d gotten cornered into this conversation.  She sighed and prayed for guidance.  “I can only speak from my own experience, Brianna, and that has only ever been with Saphira.  Soulmates may not be common but love is.  Forget the soulmates aspect of our relationship for a minute because I’ll admit that as far as that goes, we are rare in the extreme.  Think about the love we share as you’ve seen it between us.  Can you honestly say you’ve never seen that kind of love anywhere else?”

Now Brianna sat back, turning her focus to the flames in the fireplace, and Esmeralda let her be for a few minutes before she spoke again.  “Brianna, you’re over-thinking.  That kind of love is all around us - it’s up to us to decide what to do with it.”

“That’s just it, Es - I don’t think we’re always offered a choice.”

Esmeralda looked pensive, turning her own gaze to the fireplace for a long moment before looking back to meet Brianna’s eyes.  “I don’t think we necessarily have a choice about who we fall in love with and I don’t think that all love is meant to be permanent... especially for the young.  On the other hand, I believe Saphira and I were destined to be together from birth basically, but I’m pretty sure that’s not true for everyone.  However, I do think we’re all given a choice about what we do with love once it comes into our lives.”

“Do you believe in second chances?  Do you think we can have another chance if we...?” looking down at her hands twined in her lap.

Esmeralda reached over and covered Brianna’s hands with her own, stopping the flow of words and forcing Brianna took look up to meet her eyes.  Green eyes flooded with tears at the happiness reflected in Esmeralda’s own.

“Oh, Brianna - not only do I believe... I KNOW.  I got my second chance, remember? And for everything it cost me, I’d do the same thing again as long as Saphira was still by my side.  Trust me Sweetie and when that second chance comes, grab it and hold on with both hands.”

“You’re pretty smart,” Brianna commented as she pulled one hand free to wipe at her eyes before the tears spilled down her face.

“Years of practice,” Esmeralda deadpanned, drawing a strangled laugh from Brianna before she drew a shuddering breath and spoke.

“So tell me about you and Saphira.”


Chapter LIV

“So what did Mama say when you called?” Charisma asked as she snapped the last part of the harness in Adam’s car seat into place, securing him comfortably.  Then she handed him a book and closed the door of the SUV they used so rarely together before sliding into the passenger seat.  She latched her seatbelt and shut her door, idly wondering when the last time she’d driven was.  She heard Kent slam the back hatch, then he was climbing in beside her, fastening his own seatbelt and starting the vehicle in almost the same motion.

He checked his mirrors and eased out of the garage with a finger in his ear as he replied, “She was surprised, but genuinely glad to hear it.  She cheered... loudly...” rubbing his ear again, “then said something about never getting enough time with her grandson.”

“It’s not like the road doesn’t work both ways,” Charisma muttered, conveniently ignoring the fact that her parents had been down just recently.  “And we do have other responsibilities.”

“I think Mama O is just a little spoiled,” Kent said with a chuckle.  “After all, the rest of her family is right there.  She sees her sons and their families every week.  And she knows we only have a few days before I have to be back at the theatre and you have to start your political rounds in the state.”

Charisma blew out a frustrated breath.  “It’s just a little aggravating.  They knew when I went into politics it was going to keep me away from home most of the time and be time consuming even when I was there.”

“Maybe it’s the whole retirement thing.  I think even though she hasn’t completely quit working, she’s finding herself with more time than she knows how to fill.  She’s naturally going to turn her attention to her family.”

Charisma snorted.  “Maybe I should send Daddy to a travel agent.”

“Charisma,” Kent teased with a light laugh.

“What about your mother?  Is she going to join us early as well?”

Now it was Kent’s turn to snort.  “She’ll probably get there before we will.”  He cut his eyes in Charisma’s direction.  “Maybe we could send them on a world tour together.”

Charisma laughed.  “I’m not sure the world is ready for our parents to be traveling together.”

“Mama GO!” Adam chimed in from the back seat.  Kent and Charisma just laughed a little more.

For a little while after that it was quiet.  Adam had dozed off and Charisma’s attention was focused out the window at the passing scenery.  Kent risked a quick glance before he tapped her softly on the arm.  Charisma started, then turned towards him with a raised eyebrow.  He motioned to a sign on the highway.  “You need to stop?”

She looked at Adam and nodded.  “I think we should. Besides, it’d be nice to stretch my legs for a few minutes.”  Kent nodded and signaled his intention, pulling the big truck off the road and into the rest area.  Adam, feeling the change in speed, blinked his eyes open.

“Gramma?” he asked, looking around curiously.

“No, Son,” Charisma said as Kent parked the vehicle and she got out to open Adam’s door.  “We’re not at Gramma’s yet.  Time to go potty,” she added as she lifted him from his seat.  He wrapped his arms around her neck, scrunching up his nose and laughing when Charisma took the invitation to tickle him.

“MAMA!” he squealed.

“C’mon, Little Man,” she answered with a smile as she set him on his feet.  “Let’s go potty.”

“You want me to take him, Charisma?” Kent offered.

“Sure,” she accepted after a long moment looking between them.  “Adam, go with Daddy.”  Adam looked seriously at his mother before taking Kent’s hand.  Then they went into the men’s room, leaving Charisma alone to enter the ladies.

A few minutes later they met up outside the restrooms and Adam took Charisma’s hand, walking happily between his parents.  Then he jerked from both handholds, cheering as he ran from them.  “Mama, look - BR’ANNA!!”  Charisma was running as soon as Adam pulled away, catching him after a mere step or two.  He struggled, pointing to the blonde women he’d seen.  “MAMA!!!  BR’ANNA!!”

The woman, hearing the commotion behind her, turned and Charisma nodded while giving the woman an awkward smile.  “See, Son - that’s not Brianna.  She won’t be at Gramma’s for a few days yet.”  She glanced at the woman who was watching the tableau with interested eyes.  “I’m sorry; my son mistook you for a friend.”

The blonde woman smiled.  “Not a problem.  My granddaughter has done the same thing.  You’re just quicker than my daughter.  Rebecca actually caught up to the woman she thought was her aunt.”

Charisma shook her head.  “Scary,” watching the woman agree.  “Well, I’m sorry to have troubled you.”

“No trouble, dear,” the blonde woman nodded, then continued on her way.  Charisma walked around to her side of the SUV and opened Adam’s door, setting him in the seat and strapping him in.  Kent watched from the other side, waiting until Charisma was done with Adam and sliding into her own seat before opening his door and climbing in.

“Should I even ask?”

“Just a case of mistaken identity,” Charisma said with a shrug.

“Someone I’ve met?” he asked slowly not giving anything away.  “Because that woman didn’t seem familiar to me,” wondering how much Charisma would share with him.

She bit her lip.  “I don’t think so - a fellow Senator... Brianna Walker.  She’s an old family friend I’d lost touch with until just recently.”

Kent nodded his head slowly... thoughtfully considering the information he’d just been offered.  “Walker... Walker - why does that name sound so familiar?”

Charisma sighed.  This really wasn’t something she wanted to be discussing with her husband at the moment, but she supposed he needed to be looped into the circle before they got to her parents house.  Given what Brianna had told her, and knowing her brothers like she did she was convinced Brianna would be treated more like a part of the family than Kent had a prayer of ever being.  No fault of his own, of course, but even as Charisma’s husband he couldn’t compete with the more than twenty year head start Brianna had on him.

“She’s the replacement Senator the Governor appointed a few months ago.”

“Oh,” he said as though a light had gone off.  “Of course - I remember that.  She made quite a big deal about only keeping the office until the election,” glancing at Charisma who laughed and shook her head, letting her hair fall down around her face, concealing her expression.

“Yes, that would be the one.”

Kent laughed.  “I can’t begin to imagine how that’s gone over with your colleagues.”

“Well, I’m pretty sure none of them quite know how to deal with her.”

And you, Charisma?  Do you know how to deal with her? he wanted to ask but refrained.  Instead he queried, “So how did Adam meet her?”

“They ran into each other in the hallway of the Senate Building.  Brianna was coming back from a meeting and Adam was wandering the hallway.  Luke had taken him to the men’s room and Adam got done before him so he left.  Brianna found him and brought him back to my office.”

“Why was Adam at work with you?” Kent asked with a frown.  He didn’t remember hearing anything about Adam going to work with Charisma.  “What happened to Ame?”

Charisma shook her head.  “She never said exactly, but half of her face was a lurid shade of black and blue the next morning.”

“Like someone had hit her?”

“More like some thing,” Charisma corrected.  “It was a really big bruise.  But she recovered pretty quickly and she seemed uncomfortable talking about it so I didn’t push.”

“So Adam likes her... this Brianna Walker?”

“Yes,” Charisma answered but didn’t speculate on how much or why.  “She’ll be at Mama’s for the holiday.”

Kent’s eyebrows went into his hairline.  That he hadn’t expected to hear.  “It’ll be nice to meet her,” he replied neutrally, then focused his attention back on the road.  Charisma blew out a breath and looked back out her window, hoping for the best.

************

“Are you sure about this, Mama?” Patrick Tagherty asked as he helped Okasa make up the beds in the guest room Kent and Charisma always took when they visited. “This has the earmarking of a disaster written all over it,” he added as they pulled the spread up and tucked it into place.

“What would you have me do, Paddy?  They’re gonna have to meet at some point; better it be here with family to support them than somewhere where things could turn ugly and quickly get out of hand.”

“You really think they would?” Patrick asked dubiously as they finished the small bed that Adam used in their home.  When he was a little older and they had fewer guests, he would be moved to a room of his own.  But for this trip, he would be ensconced with his parents.  Okasa gave the room a once over and nodded her head in satisfaction that everything was in readiness.  Then she crossed to the door and went to the next guest room so they could prepare it for Kent’s mother.  They expected her to arrive before their daughter and son-in-law did.  Paddy picked up the bedding and followed right behind her, waiting for an answer to her question.

Okasa sighed as she removed the dustcover, folding it carefully before setting it aside and taking the bottom sheet from the stack Patrick still held.  “I think it could easily go beyond something manageable into something unrecoverable.”  She sighed again.  “I don’t want to lose any part of my family in the fallout.”

“Including Kent?”

“Including Kent,” she confirmed.  “Patrick, I love Kent - he’s a good man, and he’s been a good father to Adam. He’s just not the right mate for Charisma and never has been.”

“And what of Kay and her family joining us for dinner?  I know they have since she and Brianna were together; are they still coming as well?” waiting for Okasa’s affirmation.  He shook his head. “Seems to me things could get unpleasant regardless,” Patrick said as he added the throw pillows to the bed. 

“I think that depends on us,” Okasa replied, cocking her head when she heard a car door slam.  “Now c’mon.  I think Margaret is here,” snatching up the dustcover and stuffing it into the bedding bag.  Together they headed downstairs to greet the first member of their extended family to join them for the holiday.

************

“So then Patrick looks at Adam who’s looking at Patrick before they both turn to me and point fingers at each other,” Okasa relayed through her laughter.  “It was all I could do to keep the smile off my face long enough to send them upstairs to clean up!”

Margaret delicately wiped a tear from the corner of her eye even as she continued to chuckle silently.  She only lifted her hand to accept the drink Patrick offered her once the tear had been removed.  “I wish I could have seen that.”

“I’m glad you didn’t,” Patrick grumped.  “She threatened to scrub me with steel wool,” making a face at Okasa who simply grinned back at him.

“Well really, Paddy - Adam’s too young to know better.  What was your excuse?”

“It was something the boy needed to learn,” he replied with great dignity, turning his head away from them and lifting his nose into the air.  Margaret and Okasa exchanged smirks.  Then the slamming of a vehicle door caught their attention, and the sound of running footsteps took them both to the door just as Adam reached it.  Okasa opened it and he went right to her with a screech.

“GRAMMA!!” jumping into her arms and giving her a big kiss. Then he spotted his other grandmother and reached for her as well.

“GRA’MUVER!!” causing her to wince even as she wrapped her arms around him and Okasa and leaned in for her kiss.  “WHERE’S POP POP??” looking around for Patrick and squealing again as he caught sight of the older man.  Okasa lowered him to the floor and he took off running, arriving in Patrick’s arms just as Charisma and Kent made it to the front stoop.

Greetings were made all the way around with Charisma apologizing for the volume of her offspring’s voice.  Both grandmothers just laughed and reminded her it was part of growing up.

“I’m actually a little glad to hear it,” Margaret confessed, wiggling her finger over her ear.  “Or I will be when I get my hearing back,” she joked.  “Adam’s always been so quiet and reserved. It’s nice to see the little boy coming out in him.”

Charisma chuckled.  “More than you know.”

“Oh?” Margaret asked, cocking her head and pulling Charisma out of the pathway as Kent eased by them and headed for the stairs.

“Oh yes,” Okasa agreed, then turned to meet Charisma’s eyes.  “If you are referring to....”

Charisma nodded and turned back to Margaret.  “Have you heard about my friend Esmeralda?  She’s a custodian at the Senate Building.”

“You’re friends with a custodian?” Margaret asked in a disbelieving tone of voice, paling slightly when Charisma’s expression hardened and her eyes went the color of ice.  “I’m sorry, my dear,” she apologized immediately.  “I haven’t heard of her.  She must be quite an interesting individual.”

“She’s an amazing woman, Margaret.  I’m so lucky to be able to call her my friend.”

Now Margaret blinked in surprise.  “I’d like to meet her.”

“Well, you’re in luck,” Okasa broke in, giving Charisma a minute to collect herself.  “She and her partner....”

“Her mate, Mama,” Charisma corrected softly.  Okasa looked at her with a frown and Charisma shrugged.  “There’s a big difference, and it’s important to them.”

“She and her mate will be here for the holiday,” Okasa continued without missing a beat.

“I’ll look forward to meeting them then if only so I can know how they tie in to bringing out the little boy in my grandson.”

The smile returned to Charisma’s face and both Margaret and Okasa relaxed.  “Esmeralda’s mate Saphira let him go streaking through their house after a bath.  It’s become something of a nightly ritual.”  Charisma chuckled.  “I think you’re going to find Adam a lot different from the last time you saw him, Margaret.”

Right at that moment, Adam ran into the back of Charisma’s legs, nearly knocking her over.  “Mama, come!” he demanded imperiously.  She looked at Okasa who just smiled and nodded.  She turned back to Adam.  “Where’s your Pop Pop?”

“Outside,” tugging on her hand.  “Mama, COME!”

“Guess we’re going outside,” seeing Okasa handing Margaret her coat before slipping into her own.  Then they headed out to the backyard where Patrick waited beside a Big Wheel that had Adam’s name stenciled on it.  Charisma, of course knew that her parents had gotten one for each of the grandchildren as they got old enough.  She just hadn’t realized Adam had reached that age yet.

“Mama, SEE?  Mine!” running his hands along the letters that spelled out his name.

“I see that, son.  Are you going to ride it?”

He looked at the Big Wheel and at his appreciative audience, then firmly nodded his head.  “YES!” he declared as he straddled the seat and sat down.  The four adults took pictures and cheered appropriately as he slowly figured out the mechanics of moving the plastic trike.  Kent stood by the window and watched the action from upstairs.  Almost an hour later, Charisma thought to include him and called up for him to join them.  Only then did he finally go downstairs and into the backyard with the rest of the family.

Part 10