Unwritten Lives: Path To Destiny

17

  Iowa

  SHE got into her car and drove out of Chicago. “I guess they weren’t ready for me,” she sighed. She drove for a little while and the stopped at a gas station off of the interstate.

  She pulled in and pumped the gas. When she went inside to pay, the clerk stared at her. “Hey, are you famous or something?” he asked.

  “Or something,” she muttered as she handed him the money. “Where’s the closest hotel from here?” She looked around. “And where exactly is here?”

  “What do you mean?”

  “I’ve been driving for hours. What state am I in?”

  “Iowa, ma’am,” he smiled at her.

  “OK, in that case, where’s the nearest, CLEAN hotel?”

  “If you continue on I-80, you can take the next exit ramp. There’s a hotel about two miles on your right. You can’t miss it. It’s right across from the State Patrol barracks,” he smiled.

  “Thank you,” she sat as she left the gas station.

  “Hey, I do know who you are,” he smiled. “Famous isn’t the word for it,” he laughed.

  Alexis shook her head as she sat in the car. “Can’t even be me anymore. Iowa? When the hell did I cross the border?” She started the car and headed back on the interstate. She drove the next exit ramp and turned towards the hotel. She checked herself in and then went outside.

  Across the street was the state Patrol barracks. She dropped down wearily on a bench that was in the middle of the hotel gardens. She closed her eyes and rubbed her forehead back and forth with her hand. Alexis, you need to find something, but what’s missing, besides Matthew? She thought about the past few months and how she has been living. It’s just not the same anymore. I’m not even the Alexis I was before I met Matthew.

  She buried her face in her hands and sobbed to herself.

  “Um, excuse me, ma’am. Are you all right?” She heard a deep voice ask from above.

  She looked up and shielded her eyes from the sun. There stood an older looking man in a State Patrol officer’s uniform. “Um, I’m OK. Really. Thanks for asking,” she smiled.

  He sat down next to her. “It’s not often I see a damsel in distress,” he charmed.

  “Me? Damsel? Probably not, but in distress, yeah, I guess,” she looked into his oceanic blue eyes. “I’m Alexis Garris. And before you respond, yes, that one.”

  He smiled. “I see, Mrs. Garris,” his eyes lit up. “So, are all the stories I hear, true?”

  “Depends on the stories, but if your referring to the killer stories or even the cop stories, yes, those are true.”

  He leaned back in the bench. “I’m Sergeant Townley, Jack Townley,” he extended his hand to her. “So, what brings you to our small town?”

  “I’m actually just passing through. I figured I’d stay here a couple of days and then move on to Nebraska.”

  “What’s your final destination?”

  “Eventually, I’m going to Vegas. I hear that’s the perfect place to get lost. No one wants to know a killer.”

  “What’ll you do while you’re here?” He leaned in closer to her.

  “Um, Sergeant, are you talking to me because of my, well, cop thing?” She flirted.

  “Mostly,” he cleared his throat.

  “Sir, I may have a, well, what I call a weakness for officers. But that doesn’t mean I’m going to take you into my bed right this second.”

  He laughed. “I’m not expecting that. Yes, I knew who you were when I walked over here. But you looked upset.”

  “I am upset. I’m looking for something in my life that I just can’t seem to find. I thought when my husband was alive that we had all the answers. I thought that it was for forever, but now he’s gone and I’m lost.”

  “Not to be rude, but are you sure that it’s your husband you’re missing. Maybe, just maybe, there’s someone out there you just haven’t met yet. You know, someone who’s also out there, wandering the country just to find you.”

  “Could be. I do believe in destiny. I just wish it would hurry up sometimes,” she ran her fingers through her long, red hair.

  “Didn’t you used to be a brunette?” He placed his hand on her shoulder.

  “Yes, sir, I did. Too many people were recognizing me. I know that almost every single cop in the entire United States knows who I am. Especially after all those stories after the trial,” she frowned. “The murderess heiress with a cop fetish.”

  “I’m sorry to report that, yes, you’ve been the talk of the barracks.”

  “Jack, I’d like to do something.”

  “What’s that?”

  “Well, when I was in Chicago, I wanted to help out some shelters and things like that, but no one really wanted to help me find them. Is there a way I can find those? I mean, is there a list of shelters?”

  “Yes, if you walk over to the station with me, I can get you a list. Anything you need while you’re here, I’ll be glad to help you.”

  “Thank you, Jack. I’d like that,” she stood up and followed him across the street.

  As he walked down the hall, he put his arm around her. Officers turned around, stared, and nodded to Jack as he led the famous Alexis Garris to his desk.

  She sat down at his desk, while he thumbed through some files. He pulled out a few pieces of paper and handed it to her. “Is this what you need?”

  “Yes, Jack. Thanks.”

  “Getting lucky tonight, Jack?” An officer asked as he passed the desk.

  “Get over yourself, Harvey!” Jack said. He looked at Alexis. “I’m sorry about him.”

  “Don’t worry. You may not get lucky tonight, but if you’re interested, I’d like for us to go out to dinner.”

  “I’d like that. I get off shift very soon. Do you mind waiting? I just have a few reports to finalize.”

  “I’ve a call to make, so don’t mind me,” she picked up her cell phone and dialed Emily’s number. “Em, it’s me.”

  “Alexis, where are you?”

  “Iowa, in a small town just outside of Des Moines.”

  “What happened in Chicago?”

  “You know some people just don’t want a murderer hanging around.”

  “Alexis, I’m sorry that some people are so close-minded.”

  “It’s OK, Em. I’m OK. I think I’ll only stay here for a few more days. I’m going out to donate some money to some more shelters and then I’m off to Nebraska.”

  “Alexis, are you ever going to settle down?”

  “I don’t know. Maybe if I find what I’m looking for. Who knows, I may just settle down to have it find me. Not sure, yet. I just know that I’m not ready yet. I want to keep moving.”

  “Where are you headed?”

  “Vegas.”

  “Keep in touch. Please, Alexis.”

  “I will,” she hung up the phone and looked at Jack.

  “I’m all set, how about you?”

  “Yeah, let’s get something to eat,” she smiled. She took his hand as he led her out of the police station. He opened the door to his patrol car and sat in the front. She looked around at the cluttered the seats. “Kind of messy, huh?”

  “Sorry, about that. Didn’t realize I’d have a passenger today,” he smiled. “I know a great place to get something to eat,” he said as he drove down the road.

  Jack watched her as they ate their dinner. “I guess you were kind of hungry,” he smiled.

  “Jack, why are you really here with me?”

  “You fascinate me, Alexis,” he lightly stroked her hand.

  “Why?”

  “Well, to be honest, I never met anyone with a cop fetish,” he chuckled lightly.

  “Oh. To be honest, it’s not just a cop thing. It’s more about the badge, than anything else,” she smiled slyly. “I like shiny things,” she whispered.

  He grinned brilliantly. “Really?”

  “Yeah, can’t explain it,” she gazed in his eyes. “But that can’t be the only reason that you’re fascinated by me.” br />
  “Well, no,” he looked down. “I’m so curious about how you handled yourself. I can’t imagine being put in that situation.”

  “Oh, you mean the killer side of me.”

  “I wouldn’t call it that. Everyone around here thinks it was justified.”

  “It may have been. At least that’s what a jury thought, but it’s different to know that you’ve killed another human being. I’ve always been about saving and helping people. People deserve to be happy. They deserve to eat and have a roof over their head. They deserve to have jobs. That’s what I do. I make sure that as many people as possible get those things,” she put her head down. “It’s harder now to do it, because no one wants to be associated with a murderer, justified or not.”

  “I’d like to be associated with one, at least, for a moment,” he pulled her head gently into a kiss.

  “That’s flattering, but I’ve made a vow that I wouldn’t be with another cop.”

  “You could always wean yourself off them slowly,” he licked his lips.

  “I’m sorry, Sergeant. If you picked me up just to get laid, then I’m sorry. Not tonight.”

  “I didn’t mean to push. I’m sorry. I guess I’m just not as good at this as I used to be.”

  “What do you mean?”

  He took a deep breath. “I lost my wife about two years ago. She was murdered outside of our home,” he sighed heavily. “I haven’t even tried to pick up a woman. At my age, most women just see an old man.”

  “I’m sorry about your wife. I understand what you must be going through. As for the old man thing, you’re not old. You’re just extremely mature and sexy,” she touched his face. “I said not tonight, but if you want to visit me tomorrow, you’re more than welcome to. If you’re looking for a companion, that’s not me. I’ll be leaving and probably never return. But if you just want to feel something, as I do, you’re welcome.”

  “I’d like that,” he stood up. “Let me take you back to your hotel,” he took her hand and led out to the patrol car. He drove her back to her hotel room. He touched her shoulder as she got out of the car. “Alexis, I get off shift tomorrow at three. May I come to your room?”

  “Room 609, Jack. I’ll see you tomorrow,” she smiled as she walked into the hotel lobby.

  She pulled her .25 caliber out of her suitcase and stared at it. She put the safety on the gun and placed it under the other pillow. Slowly, she dropped on the bed in her room and laid down. She closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.

  Her memories weren’t clouding her brain tonight. Her dreams were becoming vibrant, yet uncertain.

  Alexis walked towards the light at the end of the hallway. She had this undeniable feeling that she was missing something. Where do I look? She kept turning around. Someone’s following me, but who?

  As she approached the light, she stepped through the doorway. “Angel, where are you?” a man’s voice cried.

  “Matthew?” Alexis asked.

  “No, Matthew’s gone. I’m the one that you were destined to be with. At the end of your journey, you’ll rest. When life starts to unravel again, we’ll find each other. Our lives were written to be entangled.”

  “Who are you?” Alexis whispered.

  “When your heart’s confused, I’ll clarify it for you. Until then, my angel,” his voice faded.

  Alexis woke up with a start and looked around the room. “Another dream, another dead end,” she turned on the television. Now was not the time to back to sleep. She made herself some coffee and sat on the bed until the daylight peered in through the curtain. She wearily dragged herself off of the bed and headed into the bathroom.

  After she got dressed, she slowly pulled her hair up into a bun. She grabbed her briefcase and the list that Jack gave her and headed out to her car. She spent the day driving around to the different homeless shelters and donating money.

  As she was driving back to the hotel, she noticed a large office building. She pulled into the parking lot and headed inside. She scanned the directory of businesses. She took the elevator to the thirteenth floor.

  The receptionist looked up at her as she walked in the door. “Can I help you?”

  Alexis smiled. “Yes, I’d like to see Elvin Meyer, please?”

  “Do you have an appointment?”

  “No, but, please let him know that Alexis Garris is here to see him.”

  “Oh, yes, Mrs. Garris, right away,” she picked up the phone and called Mr. Meyer.

  The small man walked out of his office and smiled when he saw Alexis standing there. “Alexis, how long has it been?”

  She hugged him. “Too long, Elvin. How are you doing?”

  “Fine. Just fine. It’s good to see you,” he put his arm around her. “Follow me. We can talk in my office.”

  She sat down in the big leather chair that was parked in front of his desk. He sat on the edge of the desk after he closed the door. “So, Lex, what brings you out here?”

  She sighed heavily. “I know that I haven’t kept in touch, but I was in town for a few days and thought I’d stop by.”

  “Lex, you can talk to me, you know?”

  “It’s so hard, Elvin. I’m trying to get a fresh start. With Matthew, John, and Mary gone, I just don’t know what I’m going to do,” she smiled at him. “Elvin, I’m going to be OK. I didn’t think I’d make it. I miss all of them so much.”

  “Lex, I wish I could’ve been there for you,” he patted her leg. “But what are you doing here, in the middle of nowhere?”

  “I’m on a journey to find something lost deep inside myself,” she sighed. “But, Elvin, how are you doing really? I mean, look at your business. Looks pretty good. John and I knew you’d turn out well. I mean, really, valedictorian? Of course you’re doing well.”

  “Well, the business is OK, but it could always be doing better. It’s so hard to find the right resources and keep them. I don’t have the luxury of great salaries.”

  “Not to butt into your business, but have you ever thought of doing stock. I mean, sell your employees stock in the company.”

  “I don’t have the capital for that. I’d need about two million to start that.”

  “Elvin, let me invest in your company. I can do it anonymously. You don’t need bad publicity,” she pulled out her checkbook and wrote him a check. “Here. The check’s good. If you have any issues, contact Jason.”

  “Daddy’s still around, huh?”

  “Of course. He’s back in Pennsylvania handling all the Rossi affairs, but he does mine, too.”

  “He was always a good man.”

  “Yeah. So, Elvin, I’ll be in town probably for about two more days. What do you say we get lunch tomorrow or something?” Alexis stood up.

  “That would be great, Lex. It’s so good to see you,” he hugged her. “Please take care of yourself.”

  “I will. I’ll stop by around noon tomorrow,” she headed out.

  Alexis dropped down on the bed in her motel room. “It was good to see you, Elvin. The stuff the three of us used to do together, it was so crazy. But, John was one of a kind.”

  “Lex, it’s not fair,” John yelled.

  “Of course it is. I won, fair and square,” she brushed her hair out of her face. “It’s my game. So I won,” she stuck out her tongue at John and ran down the street.

  John chased after her. “Lex, I’m going to get you,” he ran as fast as little ten-year-old legs would carry him.

  Alexis stopped and stared at the little girl who was watching them. “Johnny, come here,” Alexis yelled.

  “What is it?”

  “Look!” Alexis pointed at the little girl. “Let’s see if she wants to play,” The two of them ran over to the girl. “Hi, I’m Alexis and this is Johnny. Do you want to play with us?”

  The girl’s eyes lit up when she saw John. “Hi, I’m Mary. We just moved in. I don’t know anyone yet.”

  Alexis took her hand. “You can be our new best friend,” she hugged her.

/>   “I’d like that,” she smiled. “What are you playing?”

  “We were playing tag, but Lex always wins,” John said. “Let’s play something else.”

  Alexis wiped the tears from her eyes. “Sometimes it feels like a lifetime ago. I love you Johnny and Mary,” she buried her face in her hands. She turned on the television and then there was a knock on the door.

  “Jack? Oh, I’m sorry,” she said.

  “May I come in?”

  “Oh, yes, please do. I’m sorry. It was a really long day. I’m kind of not in the mood for much.”

  “Are you all right, Alexis?”

  “Yeah. I just ran into an old friend from high school. That’s all. And then it got me thinking back to when John and I met Mary. I’m sorry. I don’t need to discuss this with you.”

  He sat down on the edge of the bed. “Alexis, if you just want to talk, that’s fine. I didn’t exactly plan on what we would do.”

  “You mean you wouldn’t mind if we didn’t? I’m really not in the mood right now.”

  He patted the bed. “Just sit down, and talk,” he smiled at her as she sat next to him. “Can I ask you something?”

  “Sure?”

  “The stuff in the papers, was that all true?”

  “I guess it depends on the paper,” she frowned. “I haven’t read any of the papers. My attorney saved clippings, but I haven’t read them yet. I can’t bring myself to read them,” she laid her head on his shoulder. “Is there something specific you wanted to know?”

  “Do you remember what happened? The papers said that you claim you don’t remember.”

  “I remember holding my husband’s dead body. I remember finding my two best friends slaughtered. I honestly don’t remember beating her head in over twenty times,” she sighed. “I don’t think I want to remember. But the fact is I did it. I can’t take it back. I have to live with the fact that I did it.”

  “Are you sure that you did it?”

  “I’m not 100%, no. I can only go by what I was told,” she laid back on the bed. “Can we not talk about that anymore?”

  He laid on his side and touched her face. “I’m sorry. I was just curious.”

  “That’s OK,” she sat up and smiled. “Can I ask you something?”

  “What’s that?”

  “Are you sure you want to be with a killer?”

  “Alexis, are you a bad girl?”

  “I don’t know what you mean.”

  “Do you always get into trouble? Do you always do the wrong thing?”

  “No. I’ve done things in the past that maybe weren’t the right thing to do, but I wasn’t hurting anyone. I only want to help people. As for myself, I just sometimes seek out affection, when I need to feel something other than pain.”

  “I have no problem being with you, whether we, well, you know or not.”

  “Jack, would you mind just holding me tonight?”

  “It would be my pleasure,” he stroked her cheek. “Mind if I kiss you, though?”

  She gently pulled his head into hers and kissed him softly on the mouth. “That was nice,” she said as he wrapped his arms around her and held her tightly. She wriggled a little. “Sorry, but, Jack, can you remove your belt? Your gun’s digging into me.”

  “Oh, sorry,” he sat up and took off his belt. “Let me hold you close, very close,” he unbuttoned her blouse and pulled down her skirt. She, in turn, removed his uniform and then laid in his arms.

  He gently caressed her arms as he held her. “Good night, Alexis,” he whispered.

  “Good night, Jack,” she closed her eyes and felt the warmth of his body so close to hers.

  18

  ALEXIS sat on the bench in the hotel gardens. She solemnly watched the patrol cars entering and exiting the barracks across the street. She took a deep breath and headed to the barracks. As she was approaching the desk sergeant, he smiled at her. “Ms. Garris, what can I do for you?” He winked at her.

  “Can you just give this to Jack Townley for me?” She handed him an envelope.

  “Sure thing, but don’t you want to give it to him yourself? He’s right in there,” he pointed to the doors.

  “No, that’s OK,” she turned around and walked towards the hotel parking lot. She sighed as she pulled out into the road.

  A few seconds later, she noticed red lights and sirens coming up behind her. “I wasn’t speeding this time,” she whispered as she pulled over.

  Jack walked up to her car and sat down in the passenger seat. “Alexis, weren’t you going to say good-bye?”

  “I did, Jack. I gave you the letter.”

  “Alexis, I know that the past couple of days meant nothing to you, but they were special to me,” he stroked her cheek.

  “Jack, they meant more to me than you know. Not everyone would want to hold a murderer in their arms, unless they were getting something else out of it,” her eyes saddened as she looked at his face. “Jack, I’m sorry, that we didn’t make love. I guess I slowly am weaning myself off of cops,” she smiled slightly.

  “Alexis, don’t lose hope. Please, you’re a special woman and you deserve to be happy. If you ever are in town, please, find me,” Jack pulled her head into a soft, gentle kiss. “I’ll miss you, lady.”

  “Thanks, Jack,” she smiled as he got out of the car. She watched him strut back to his patrol car and pull away. “Yup, no more cops. Too bad, too,” she whispered with a heavy breath as she pulled on to the interstate.

  She drove for several hours before she hit the Nebraska border. She pulled into a rest area and looked at a map. “Hmmm,” she whispered as she looked at the mileage. “Only eight hours to Wyoming,” she folded up the map and sat in the car.

  She picked up her cell phone and dialed Emily’s number. “Em, it’s Alexis.”

  “Alexis, where are you?”

  “Just crossed the border into Nebraska,” Alexis said.

  “Are you OK?”

  “Yeah, not bad. Sorry that I haven’t called you in a couple of days. When I was in Iowa, I ran into an old friend of John’s and mine, Elvin Myers.”

  “Oh, yeah, I remember John mentioning him a few times.”

  “Well, yeah. He’s a good man. It was nice to see him, but I realized it was time to move on.”

  “Anymore cops?”

  “Emily!”

  “Come on, Alexis. You know you can tell me anything.”

  “OK, there was a State Patrol officer, but we didn’t. He just kept me company. It turns out that wherever I go, the cops know exactly who I am.”

  “Well, of course they do.”

  “No, Em. It’s now red.”

  “What’s red?”

  “The hair. It’s been red for a while now. Some people just look at me strange.”

  “I understand, but red?” Emily laughed slightly.

  “It doesn’t look that bad, and it’s not like orange. It’s more of a vibrant auburn type of red.”

  “I’m sure you look great. Please, call me when you get in Wyoming. Don’t forget to eat while you’re on the road.”

  “I won’t. Thanks, mom!”

  “I’m sorry. I just worry about you. You’re all that I have left, you know.”

  “I know. I’m sorry. I’m sorry I left, but I have to find something.”

  “You will. I’ll talk to you soon.”

  Alexis got back in the car and headed back on the interstate. She turned on the radio and listened to the local news. As she was approaching the Wyoming border, she took the exit ramp to Interstate 15. She could see flashing lights ahead in the distance, she laughed to herself. “Quota time,” she whispered.

  As she slowed down to go around the vehicle, she had to stare at the driver. “Cute, guy,” she laughed out loud. “He looks like that guy from Detroit,” she shook her head. “That’s just too funny. Mr. O’Roark got a ticket.”

  She sped up the road and before she knew it, the flashing lights were behind her. “Oh, crap. I knew it. Can’t laugh
at someone and not get something in return,” she said as she pulled over.

  The officer walked over to the car. “Ma’am, do you know why I pulled you over?”

  “Um, no, sir,” Alexis replied.

  “Ma’am, I clocked you doing 80,” he smiled.

  “That’s not possible,” she said.

  “Why not?”

  “How could you clock me when you had someone else pulled over?” she asked as her eyes lit up.

  “I know you, don’t I?” he removed his sunglasses. “Yes, I do. Please step out of the car, ma’am.”

  She slowly got out of the car. “What did I do now?”

  He looked her up and down. “You know, ma’am, you’re much prettier in person,” he touched her shoulder.

  “Um, sir, get your hands off me. If you need to give me a ticket, go ahead and do it now.”

  He stepped closer to her and touched her face. “Oh, come on. I know who you are and how you are.”

  “Officer, I’m going to tell you one more time. Just give me the ticket and let me leave.”

  “I know a way I could just let the ticket go.”

  “I know what you’re thinking,” she grabbed his belt and pulled him closer to her. She carefully placed her hand on his gun. “Sir, what are you trying to say to me?”

  “Nothing,” he backed off as a car on the road slowed down and pulled next to them.

  The driver rolled down his window. “Is everything OK here?” he asked. It was the same driver that was pulled over down the road.

  “Yes, thank you,” Alexis smiled.

  “Just checking,” he looked at her. “Have a good day, ma’am.”

  Alexis watched as he pulled away, he was the man from the hotel in Detroit. She looked at the officer. “Can I go now?”

  “Get out of here,” The officer stormed back to his car.

  Alexis sat down and watched the other car drive down the highway. She took a deep breath. “Another road to no where,” she pulled out into the road and continued on to Wyoming.

  19

  Wyoming

  WEARILY, she pulled into the hotel parking lot. She pulled up to the doors and the Valet unloaded her suitcases and parked her car for her. She walked over to the desk clerk and checked in. “yes, reservation for Alexis Garris.”

  “Yes, ma’am,” The woman smiled at her. “Here are your keys, and by the way, I have a message for you,” she handed her a piece of paper.

  Alexis stared at the note and smiled. “Thank you,” she followed the bellboy up to the penthouse suite.

  She set her suitcase on the bed as the bellboy left. She pulled her .25 caliber, put the safety on, and placed it under the other pillow.

  She stood in front of the large balcony window and smiled. “What a beautiful view,” she whispered. She dropped down on the bed and looked at the note again. “Who in the world would’ve sent this?” She read the words over and over. “Wherever you go, I’ll always be.”

  She shook her head and turned on the television. She flipped through the channels until she found the local news. She closed her eyes until the top story caught her interest.

  “Our top story tonight,” The anchorwoman began. “Today, in Cheyenne, several Marine troops gathered at the civic center to pay tribute to fallen heroes. Today’s ceremony was dedicated in honor of Captain Matthew Garris, a decorated hero. The Captain was recently slain in Pennsylvania where he lived with his wife of six years. Captain Garris’ men flew in from around the United States to pay a special tribute. The tribute was scheduled today because of the holiday weekend. It would’ve also been the Captain’s Forty-Second birthday. Captain Garris spent several months here in Wyoming, training his men, before he moved on in his travels. A special moment of silence was given, along with a twenty-one gun salute.”

  Tears streamed down her face. “I forgot your birthday. Can you believe it?” she whispered as the story continued.

  The television screen flashed with Matthew’s picture. “At the opening of the ceremony, Special Sergeant O’Roark, gave a speech in honor of his fallen partner. He was unavailable for comment.”

  Alexis turned off the TV. “Damn, would’ve like to seen him,” she dropped back on the bed. She stared at the ceiling. “I didn’t know you were ever in Cheyenne,” she closed her eyes and remembered his stories. How could I? I never listened to the Marine stories. She laughed to herself. Oh, Matthew, happy birthday, baby.

  She picked up the phone and dialed room service. “Please send me up a bottle of your finest champagne. Also, do you sell candles in your gift shop? … Thank you. Please send up six white pillar candles to the penthouse,” she hung up the phone.

  She took off her clothes and put on the terry robe that hung in the closet. She answered the door. “Thank you so much. Please come in.”

  The man placed the bucket of champagne on the table and handed her the candles. As she handed him the tip, she asked. “Can I ask you something?”

  “Anything, Mrs. Garris,” he smiled charmingly at her.

  “I know you probably can’t tell me, but is there a Special Sergeant O’Roark staying here?”

  He shook his head. “He had a reservation but cancelled it. He originally planned to stay the week, but I guess his plans changed. He was just here for the ceremony and then left. His brother, Officer O’Roark is staying here, though.”

  “Oh, I see. Well, thank you.”

  “Anytime,” he started walking towards the door. “Ma’am, you’re Captain Garris’ wife, aren’t you?”

  She nodded slightly. “Yes, I was.”

  His smile grew large. “My brother was one of his men. He served proudly under your husband.”

  Alexis smiled. “Thank you. That means a lot.”

  “Not to impose or anything, but tomorrow in the banquet room, there’s going to be a breakfast for some of the men. Most of them are staying here. You’re welcome to join them.”

  “I’ll think about it. Thank you for the invitation.”

  He left the room. Alexis lit the six candles. “One for every year that we were together,” she whispered. She poured herself a glass of champagne and headed out on the balcony. She raised her glass to the sky. “Matthew, I know that you’re looking out for me. I miss you so much. I love you so much. It does feel good to know how much other people loved you and…” She wiped the tear from her eye. “I’m sorry that I never listened to your stories,” she sipped from her glass.

  She sat down in the chair and watched the sunset. “Happy Birthday, baby.”

  20

  ALEXIS got dressed the next morning and headed down to the lobby. As she was walking towards the dining room, she noticed several men, dressed in Marine uniforms, heading for the banquet room. She took a deep breath and contemplated following them.

  She watched them enter the room for a little while and then went into the dining room. She sat down at a table near the doorway. As she was reading the menu, a man approached her. “Um, excuse me?” he asked her.

  She looked up and smiled. “Yes, what can I do for you?”

  “This is going to sound strange, and I don’t mean anything by it. But you look familiar.”

  “Oh, well, before you say anything else, let me introduce myself. I’m Alexis Garris,” she stood up and stretched out her hand.

  His eyes lit up. “Hello, I’m Christopher O’Roark,” he said.

  “O’Roark? That name sounds familiar to me,” she sat down. “Please, have a seat.”

  “You probably mean my brother, JC.”

  “Oh, yes, JC. Matthew has mentioned him several times. What can I do for you, Christopher?”

  “I just wanted to meet the wife of my brother’s partner,” he smiled. “I came to join my brother for the ceremony. My brother came to town for the ceremony, but then left. He’s been moving around a lot.”

  “Oh, sounds familiar. I’ve been doing the same thing,” Alexis said. “I think it’s interesting that you’re here.”

  H
e shook her hand. “I’m sorry that I bothered you. I knew Matthew growing up. My little brother loved him so much. I think his death affected him more than he’ll let on. He doesn’t handle death too well. His wife died several years ago and he still hasn’t gotten over it. We, also, just lost our father. I don’t know how he keeps things together, but some how he manages.”

  “I’m sorry to hear that. I know how he feels. Please, if you see your brother, tell him hello for me. I’ve never met him, but I’d like to meet him sometime.”

  Christopher stood up. “Thank you for taking the time to talk with me. Have a good day, Mrs. Garris,” he walked away.

  “Guess I’m not destined to ever meet JC,” she whispered as she watched Christopher walk through the doors. She leaned back in the chair and motioned for the waiter.

  After Alexis ate her breakfast, she walked towards the banquet room. She stood outside the door and listened to the many conversations among the men. She turned to leave after a little while, when she was approached from behind.

  “Um, excuse me, Mrs. Garris?” the voice said.

  She turned around. “Yes? How can I help you?”

  “It’s her!” He yelled to the men. “It’s really her!”

  “What’s going on?” she asked.

  “Sorry we startled you. We just wanted to give you something,” he turned to the men. In unison, they stood up and saluted her. “It was an honor to serve under your husband.”

  “Thank you,” she whispered as tears swelled in her eyes. “I know that those were some of the best days of his life. He talked more often about it than I care to admit,” she smiled. “He was proud of all of you,” she walked slowly away as the men sat back down.

  She walked over to the desk clerk. “Um, excuse me, the military ceremony that occurred yesterday, can you give me directions?”

  He smiled at her. “Sure, here you go,” he handed her the paper after he finished writing. “Have a good day, ma’am.”

  She gave the valet her ticket and he pulled her car out front. She drove to the civic center, where the ceremony had taken place.

  As she entered the building, she stopped at the foot of the newly erected statue. “Oh, Matthew,” she cried. She lightly touched the feet of the ten-foot tall statue of Captain Matthew Garris. At the base of the statue, there was a plaque that listed the names of all the fallen marines. At the bottom of the list, the quote “To honor, to serve, to protect, to love, to save … even in death, life’s path continues….”

  She ran her fingers lightly over the quote and smiled. “Good-bye, baby,” she opened the doors to the stadium and looked around. No one was there, so she carefully approached the podium. As she stood at the podium, she noticed an index card on the floor. She picked it up and read the handwriting. “Page 3 of 4, all and all, he was my best friend. It was an honor to serve with such a great man. The best part about it was that he never admitted how great he was. He saved my butt so many times. I could never count. I wish I had the opportunity to say good-bye to him, but being here, now, allows me to do it, even if it’s two years too late…”

  She placed the card in her pocket. “Must be part of JC’s speech,” she whispered. She glanced around at the large stadium, and took a deep breath. “Yes, Matthew, you would be so proud,” she walked slowly to the exit.

  She flipped opened up her cell phone as she sat on the bench outside. “Em, it’s Alexis.”

  “Where are you now?”

  “Em, I’m in Cheyenne. You should be here right now. They honored Matthew yesterday. It was like I was destined to be here at this moment,” her voice broke as she spoke.

  “They did? Oh, that’s so great. He would’ve loved that,” Emily’s voice cracked.

  “Yeah. I saw most of it on the news. I wish I had seen the speech that JC gave him. I just found page three of it on the floor of the stadium. I wanted to meet him, but he left before I knew it. I did meet Christopher this morning, though.”

  “He’s a good guy. JC doesn’t look anything like him. It’s funny. Matthew and JC were so close and so tight. I wish they never lost touch.”

  “Me, either. Well, Em. I don’t think I’m going to stay here much longer. There’s just too much of Matthew here. I didn’t realize that when I came here. I forgot that he trained some of his men at the base here.”

  “Didn’t listen, either. Did you?”

  “No,” Alexis laughed.

  “Me, either. I’ll talk to you soon, honey,” Emily hung up.

  Alexis drove back to the hotel and sat down on the bed. She closed her eyes and tried to feel Matthew, but he was so far away. She couldn’t feel him anymore. I used to remember his touch, now it’s gone. Oh, Matthew, I can still see your eyes and your smile, but your touch is gone. She cried herself to sleep.

  The next morning, she packed up her suitcases and called down to the lobby. “Yes, this is Mrs. Garris. I’ll be checking out today. Please send someone up to get my bags.”

  She opened her briefcase and thumbed through a few documents. “Just one more thing before I leave,” she pulled out her checkbook and placed it in her purse.

  The bellboy knocked on the door and she followed him down to the lobby. Alexis walked over to the desk clerk. “Hi, I’d like to check out now, please.”

  “Oh, I’m sorry that you have to leave so soon,” he said.

  “Too much of my husband around here,” she smiled. “Oh, by the way, are the Marines still here?”

  “Yes, ma’am,” he smiled.

  “Good,” she took out her checkbook and wrote out a check. “Can you give this to them?” she asked as she placed the check in an envelope. “It’s just a small donation for the upkeep and maintenance of my husband’s statue at the Civic Center.”

  “Yes, ma’am. I’ll take care of that for you. Have a nice day,” he said as he took the envelope.

  Alexis waited for her car and the bellboy loaded it up for her. She handed him his tip. “Thank you very much,” she said as she got in the car and headed towards the exit ramp on to I-15.

  21

  Idaho

  ALEXIS drove for several hours until she reached the Idaho border. She pulled into a rest area to stretch her legs. Then she continued on to Boise. She had no idea what she’d find when she arrived, but she hoped that she’d find it here. She was getting so tired, so tired of missing Matthew, so tired of being Alexis Garris.

  She pulled into the Hilton Garden Hotel and let the valet park her car. She checked in. “yes, reservation for Mrs. Garris. Alexis Garris.”

  “Yes, ma’am. I also have a message for you from a Mr. Paul Welch,” the clerk said.

  “Oh, thank you very much,” she said as she took the paper from his hand. “If he calls again, tell him he can meet me here. I’m going up to my room to freshen up.”

  She followed the bellboy to her room and dropped on the bed. “Thank you,” she said as she handed him a tip.

  She took out the .25 and placed it under the other pillow of the bed. She shook her head and sighed. She took off her clothes and headed into the bathroom. She ran the water in the tub and added some bubble bath. She let her body soak as she laid back and closed her eyes. She didn’t realize how long she had been in the tub until the phone rang. She grabbed the robe that was hanging on the door and rushed to answer the phone. “Hello?”

  “Mrs. Garris, a Mr. Welch is here to see you,” he said.

  “Please send him to my room, thank you,” she hung up quickly.

  She dried herself off and hurried to get dressed. She was buttoning her blouse as Paul knocked on the door. She opened the door. “Um, Mr. Welch, please forgive me, come on in,” she smiled.

  “Mrs. Garris, it’s nice to finally meet you,” he ran his hands through his sandy hair. He resembled his brother, not just in his looks, but also in his presence.

  “Please have a seat,” she pulled her hair back into a bun. “Um, how’d you know I’d be in Boise?”

  “Mr. Abrams. I had some ques
tions about the deal you made with my brother, Steven. I called Mr. Abrams and he said it would be best if you answered them. After all, it was your husband’s business.”

  “Oh, I see,” Alexis sat on the bed and faced him. “I just got in this morning, so, you’ll have to excuse me. What kind of questions do you have?”

  “You mentioned to Steven that you don’t want the employees to lose their jobs.”

  “Yes, that’s what we agreed on. NO one will lose their job. I wouldn’t have sold it otherwise.”

  “I’ve had a few of these instances before, some companies we were able to save. I have to say, that the Garris Engineering Foundation is in jeopardy. It has been almost two years since your husband died. It was his company. Some people can’t get over the fact that he’s no longer there.”

  Alexis crossed her legs. “Mr. Welch…”

  “Please, call me Paul.”

  “Ok, Paul. I’m still dealing with the fact that my husband’s dead, and, yes, I know it’s been two years,” she sighed. “Matthew built that company into a success. I only gave him the $500,000 start up costs. He made it all happen. When I sold it to Steven, it was worth more than the amount that I sold it for. Don’t tear it apart.”

  “What do you want me to do?” He stood up and walked over to the window.

  She stood next to him. “Paul, I read about you and Steven. I know what kind of businessmen you are. You just add more stock options. I know that the employees who started with the company were provided options, but newer employees should have that, too. Also,” she sat down and wrote something on a piece of paper. “Contact a good friend of mine, Elvin Meyer. He owns a small business outside of Des Moines. Talk with him about a merger. I met with him a while ago regarding similar problems.”

  Paul took the piece of paper. “Thanks, if you’re sure.”

  “Paul, I can’t run the company for Matthew. I’ve no idea what happens in the day-to-day stuff of an engineer. I’m not an engineer. There are some good men out there. Maybe you just need to find a few of them. Contact the Cheyenne Marine base in Wyoming. Find out if there are men who are thinking about retiring. Matthew was a Marine Captain. He got his engineering degree while serving. You never know, you may find just what you need. Don’t let my husband’s work be destroyed.”

  “I won’t. I’m glad that I met with you. Thank you, Mrs. Garris.”

  “You’re welcome. Tell your brother that I said hello,” she walked him to the door. “If you have any other questions, just contact Mr. Abrams. He’ll always know how to get in touch with me,” she smiled as she closed the door.

  She pulled her hair down and got undressed. She put the robe back on and laid on the bed. Soon, she fell asleep.

  “You’re so close, yet so far.”

  She looked down the hall and walked towards the light. “Where are you? I can’t see you,” Alexis cried.

  “Follow me. When lives collide, you’ll find me. Follow your path to destiny.”

  “Who are you? How will I know you?”

  “Angel, you’ll know. In your heart, you’ll know.”

  She woke up the next morning and stared out at the morning sky. “Someone’s still following me. I can feel it. Is it destiny or just some stalker?” she whispered.

  Just as she was about to go into the bathroom, there was a knock on the door. She opened it cautiously. “Yes?”

  “Room service.”

  “I didn’t order room service.”

  “Oh, well, I’ve a standing room service order. Coffee, toast, the morning paper, and a white rose,” he smiled.

  “Oh, well, thank you. Do you know who ordered this?”

  “No, ma’am, it was anonymous.”

  “Well, bring it in,” she sighed.

  He rolled in the tray and left the room. She went into the bathroom and brushed her hair. She got dressed and then sat at the table to eat her breakfast. When she finished eating, she picked up the phone. “This is Alexis Garris. I’ll be doing some business in the next few weeks here and I was wondering if there was a temp agency nearby. I’d like to hire an assistant while I’m in Boise.”

  “Yes, Mrs. Garris, our hotel does offer that kind of service.”

  “You’re kidding, right?”

  “No, we don’t get a lot of people in here for more than a week. When we do, we offer the use of one of our employees to act as an assistant to important business persons, such as yourself.”

  “Well, I’d like to meet a couple before I decide. I’ll be handling large sums of money and I have to know that I can trust this person.”

  “Not a problem. Whenever you’re ready, just go to the lobby and meet with the Concierge of the hotel, Mr. Raymond, and he’ll help you.”

  “Thank you,” she hung up the phone. She put her hair up and headed downstairs to the lobby. As she was approaching the desk clerk, she could hear the heated discussion between him and another man.

  “I don’t think you understand, sir,” the desk clerk said. “There are no reservations under your name.”

  “Don’t give me that! I made a reservation specifically at this hotel for this day!” He spat back.

  “No, there are no reservations under your name. It must be another hotel.”

  The man slammed his fist on the counter. “Just forget it. Can I get a room or not?”

  “No, sir, we’re booked up,” The man started to storm out of the hotel. “Mr. O’Roark, you left your keys.”

  He came back, grabbed his keys, and ran out.

  Alexis followed after him, but he had driven away quickly in his car. Alexis walked back to the clerk. “Was there a problem here?”

  “He swore he made a reservation, but we just don’t have it. Nothing you need to worry about, Mrs. Garris,” he smiled at her.

  “Um, Larry, thank you. Where’s Mr. Raymond’s office?” she asked.

  He pointed down the hall. “Second door on your right. His name’s on the door.”

  “Thank you,” she walked down the hall to Mr. Raymond’s office. She took a deep breath and knocked softly.

  “Who is it?” A voice called from inside.

  “Mrs. Garris, Alexis Garris,” she answered.

  “Please, come in.”

  She opened the door carefully and found a very tall, dark-haired man sitting behind his desk.

  He held out her hand to her. “Yes, Mrs. Garris, have a seat. What can I do for you?”

  “I’ll be in town for a few weeks and need to hire a short-term assistant. I was told by the desk clerk that you were the one I needed to speak with,” she crossed her legs.

  “Oh, yes, Well,” he pushed his wire-framed glasses up on his nose. “We do have a few employees that could help you. I assume that you’d like to interview them yourself.”

  “Yes, sir. I’ll be dealing with quite large sums of money and need someone I can trust. I’ll pay this person $4000 per week. I’m not sure how long I’ll need them, but if I leave prior to completing a week, I’ll pay for the entire week. I hate short weeks,” she smiled.

  “Sounds like I should work for you,” he smiled.

  She laughed slightly. “How long will it take to gather up these employees? I’ve a lot of business that I need to take care of.”

  “Let me make a call. Hold on one second,” he said as he picked up the phone. “Yes, please let Andrea, Josh, Cathy, and Kevin know that I need to speak with them,” he hung up the phone. “Mrs. Garris, you may interview them in the empty office next door. Follow me,” he led her into the office. “Feel free to use this during your entire stay.”

  “Thank you, and please call me Alexis,” she smiled. “Have them wait outside and I’ll talk to them one at a time.”

  He nodded as he closed the door behind him. Alexis sat back in the chair and smiled. “It’s been so long since I’ve been behind a desk. Have I ever been behind a desk?” She laughed to herself. “Not really.”

  She stood up and opened the door. “Yes, Andrea, please come in.”


  She interviewed each person and then sent them outside to wait. She closed her eyes and leaned back. “I haven’t hired anyone ever in my life. Jason usually does this,” she turned around in the chair and stared out the window. “No, wait, I did hire Mary at the diner, but that was too easy. Oh, Mary, I miss you so much,” she tried to compose her thoughts as she spun back around and reviewed the interview notes she had taken.

  She took a deep breath and stood in the doorway. “After careful consideration, I’d like for Kevin to help me out for the next few weeks. Thank you all for your time.”

  “No one wants to work for a murderer anyway!” Cathy spat.

  “Shut up, Cathy,” Josh said to her. “You’re lucky Mr. Raymond didn’t hear that.”

  “Yes, I did hear that,” Mr. Raymond stepped out of his office. “Mrs. Garris, I apologize for the close-mindedness of our employees. Cathy, you can get your stuff and leave now. You’re fired.”

  “Whatever!” She stormed down the hall.

  Josh, Andrea, and Kevin stood there in shock.

  “Mrs. Garris, I’m sincerely apologetic about this. I don’t know what came over her.”

  “I’m used to it,” Alexis said. “Other’s opinions have no bearing on why I’m here in Boise. I want you to know that,” she smiled at the three employees. “Kevin will be my assistant, but if you two want to do some other things for me, I’d appreciate it.”

  Josh and Andrea nodded. “What kind of things?” Andrea asked.

  “Come into my office and we’ll discuss it,” Alexis said as she walked back into the office and sat down.

  The three employees followed her and Mr. Raymond returned to his office.

  22

  KEVIN knocked on Alexis’ office door. “Mrs. Garris, may I come in?”

  “Yes, Kevin,” she answered. “And, please, it’s Alexis. I’m not that old,” she smiled.

  He sat down in front of her. “Yes, Alexis. I’m sorry,” his green eyes smiled back at her. “I have a list of all the local rescue missions and Salvation Armies in the area.”

  “Good, thank you,” she smiled. “I know that Andrea’s working on the computer stuff. She should have all the disks burned by tomorrow. Those will get sent directly to Jason Abrams. I gave you his address yesterday.”

  “Yes, I have it. Don’t worry. I’ll take care of everything,” he smiled at her. “Will you be handling the donations personally?”

  “Yes, but you’re welcome to sit in the meetings. If you could set up individual meetings with everyone on the list, I’d appreciate it. Anytime’s good for me, but try to make it this week.”

  “Um, Alexis, don’t you have any fun?” Kevin smiled.

  “Fun?”

  “You know what fun is, don’t you? I didn’t mean to pry but you just seem like you’re all business.”

  “I’m sorry, Kevin. Yes, I do like to have fun, but to be honest, it’s been a while.”

  “Alexis, what’s your favorite movie of all time?”

  “Movie?” She leaned back. “That’s an easy one. Stalag 17, I love that movie. I used to have a copy of it, but I don’t anymore.”

  He smiled. “Well, then you’ll have to get yourself one.”

  “I know, but I just don’t have the time to track it down. It’s an old movie.”

  “I know, one of my favorites, too,” he ran his hand through his brown, sandy hair. “Actually, it’s funny that you mentioned that one, because down at the cinema, they’re having a William Holden film festival and that’s the main billing.”

  “You’ve got to be kidding?” Her eyes lit up.

  “No, it’s on Saturday. Would you like to come with Josh and me?”

  “Are you sure you’d want me to come with you?”

  “You’re very cool, Alexis. Look at what you’re doing. Don’t mind what people think. You have to let your hair down once in a while,” he beamed at her.

  “Sounds like it could be fun.”

  “Good. I’ll have Josh track down that video for you. I know that he was still working on transferring your old video tapes to newer ones, so he should be able to find it for you.”

  “I hope so. I know I should be doing this all myself, but I just didn’t realize how much I had to catch up on. The videos are my personal tapes, but they only last for so long.”

  “You could always transfer them to DVD.”

  “I like the tapes. They remind me of when I recorded them,” she smiled slightly. “DVDs are good for regular movies, but I like the videos, too.”

  He stood up. “Well, I’ll make these appointments for you and then go talk with Josh. See you shortly,” he left out the office.

  “Nice kid,” she whispered. “Oh, to be twenty again,” As he looked through her papers on her desk, she got lost in her thoughts.

  “Matthew, I’m putting in the movie, hurry up with the popcorn,” Alexis called into the kitchen.

  He came out of the kitchen with a large bowl. “What is it with you and this movie?” He laughed.

  “Oh, get over here. You know I love it. I can’t help it. William Holden is just so damn good looking,” she teased.

  “Better than me?”

  “Of course not, but he’s got this thing about him.”

  “What? It’s the uniform thing, isn’t it? I don’t see very many shiny medals on his chest,” he teased.

  “That’s because they take them away from the prisoners,” she laughed. “No, I like this movie. It’s close to what really happened, and yet, it’s not,” she draped her legs across his as he sat down. “But I love you, baby. You know that, don’t you?”

  He kissed her softly. “Yes, I do. And you know what? I was a Captain, too.”

  “I know,” she touched his chest. “You should wear your medals more often.”

  He shook his head. “Just turn on the movie,” he wrapped his arm around her.

  She stared at the papers in front of her. “I need a little break,” she headed out of the office and walked outside to the hotel gardens. She sat down on a bench and closed her eyes. She loved the feeling of having the wind blow through her head.

  “Um, excuse me? Mrs. Garris?” A familiar voice said.

  Alexis looked up. “Paul? What are you doing here? Please, have a seat,” she smiled.

  “I saw you sitting here and thought I’d come over and say hello. I didn’t realize that you’d be in Boise this long,” Paul Welch said to her.

  “I’ve some things that I need to take care of. I’ll probably be here for another week or so,” she smiled.

  “Sounds familiar. I’ve been traveling for so long. I don’t even know where to call home,” he sighed.

  “I know the feeling. I’m looking for a place to call home. But, don’t you live in Arizona?”

  “That’s my brother, Steven. He runs several of the companies in the Florence and Phoenix areas. For some reason, he likes to focus on the smaller towns. He’s looking to open up a Computer support business in a small town called Sars Springs.”

  Alexis smiled. “I’ve heard of that.”

  “You have?” Paul sounded surprised.

  “Yes, my late husband was born and raised in Florence, but he used to tell me stories about some places called Middleburg and Sars Springs, specifically.”

  “That’s too funny,” he said. “Alexis, if you don’t have plans, would you like to go to dinner with me?”

  “Paul, I’d like that,” she smiled as she patted his hand. “Have you contacted Elvin yet?”

  “Yes, ma’am,” he laughed. “I’m heading out there in about two weeks to meet with him personally. And, then, together, we’re going back to Pennsylvania to improve the Garris Engineering Foundation.”

  “Good. I’m glad. Elvin’s a good man. I’ve a feeling that you two will get along fine.”

  Paul stood up. “Well, I’ve another meeting shortly. Can I pick you up, say around five?”

  “Sure, I’ll meet you in the lobby. The hotel has been gracious eno
ugh to offer me one of their vacant offices. I’ll see you at five,” Alexis watched as Paul walked out to the parking lot. “Hmmm, not bad. A rich man who drives his own car. Not bad at all.”

  She stood up and walked back to her office, where Josh was waiting for her with several boxes. “Mrs. Garris, I mean, Alexis, I’ve finished all the tapes.”

  “Good. Did you get the special boxes I ordered for them?” she asked.

  “Yes, the heat or cold won’t be able to break through to destroy the tapes,” he set the boxes down. “Do you want them in your room?”

  “No, the trunk of my car. I don’t need those in my room. I won’t be watching them anytime soon,” she sighed.

  “Not a problem,” he smiled. “I hear that you’ll be coming with us to the film festival.”

  “Yes, is that a problem for you?”

  “No, ma’am,” he smiled as he ran his hands through his blonde hair. “I think it’s great. I love old movies, don’t you?”

  “Yes, I really do,” she smiled.

  “Oh, yeah. This is for you,” he handed her a small box. “I stopped at the local video store and bought their last copy.”

  She opened the box to find the DVD, Stalag 17. “Thank you so much.”

  “Not a problem. I’ll get these out to your car. The valet has your keys, right?”

  “Yes, Josh. Thank you. You can stop by later and I’ll give you your final paycheck.”

  “Oh, you won’t be needing me anymore?”

  “Oh, I’m sorry,” she thought for a moment. “I’ll tell you what, since it’s short notice, I’ll double it. I’ll give you $8,000. And if I need you again for anything else, I’ll have Kevin let you know.”

  “I’ll see you later,” he beamed.

  Alexis locked up the office door and headed to her room. It had been a really long day, but she was looking forward to her dinner with Paul. It had been so long since she had a nice dinner with conversation, other than herself.

  She got undressed and took a shower. She carefully picked out her clothes and got dressed. She dried and brushed her long red hair, as she stared at herself in the mirror. “I guess I can’t hide behind the hair anymore,” she whispered.

  She picked up the phone and called down to the lobby. “This is Alexis Garris. Is there a hair salon near by that takes walk-ins?”

  “Yes, Mrs. Garris,” he said. “Down the street, there’s a salon. I can call them and let them know you’re on your way.”

  “Thank you so much. I’d appreciate it,” she hung up and headed to the salon.

  An hour later, she returned to her room and smiled as she looked in the mirror. She just needed a trim, now her hair was just below her shoulders. “Very nice,” she said aloud. She looked at her watch and turned on the television.

  As she sat on the bed, there was a knock on the door. She opened it. “Paul, what are you doing here?” she smiled.

  “I know, we were supposed to meet downstairs, but I finished my business a little early. I see you did, too.”

  She touched her hair. “Yeah, come on in. I was just watching TV. It helps me relax. I like watching the local news,” she sat down on the bed. “Have a seat.”

  He sat down in the chair in the corner and pulled it towards her. “Thanks for having dinner with me tonight.”

  “I should thank you. To be honest, the only real companion I’ve had for a long time is myself or, well, a cop,” she said.

  “The cop thing, right. I do recall something about that.”

  “Well, yeah, but it’s time I grew up and moved on with my life. I’m trying so hard. I guess that’s why I’m just doing business now. It seems like business and money are the only things in my life I can control.”

  “I completely understand. I travel around the country and world trying to make things better, but I don’t have a place to call home. Steven’s in Arizona, but he doesn’t need me. He’s doing so well there. I’m happy for him, but I just can’t get myself to settle down.”

  “I understand. I want to settle down, but I wish that I could go someplace where no one would know who I was.”

  “Alexis, are you all right?”

  She stood up. “Paul, let’s go get something to eat.”

  “I’d love to. Where would you like to go?” he asked.

  “Well, I haven’t really been too far from the hotel, but I hear there’s a nice Italian restaurant at the edge of town.”

  “Sounds great,” he put his arm around her and led her to his car.

  She laughed as he opened the car door for her. “Did I miss something?”

  “No, Paul. I’m sorry. It’s just most businessmen that I know, have a driver.”

  “I like to drive. But, don’t you drive, too?”

  “Yes, if I have to. I like walking. It clears my head, but, yes, I drive a silver BMW.”

  “Oh, that really nice car in the garage. I’ve seen it. It’s very nice.”

  “It has a lot of power,” she smiled as he closed the door.

  He drove them to the restaurant and took her hand as the waiter led them to a private table.

  Paul looked up at the waiter. “I’d like a ‘97 Cabernet, please,”

  “Yes, sir.”

  “You don’t mind red wine, do you?”

  “No, I love red wine. I haven’t had a Cabernet before. Usually I drink Merlot. The ’97s are good years, though.”

  “Yes, they are,” he laughed slightly.

  “What?” Alexis leaned in to his words.

  “I actually have a wine cellar on my private plane.”

  “You’re kidding, right?” she smiled.

  “No, I’m not. I’m not a connoisseur or anything, but I know what I like when I see it, or taste it,” he stroked her hand.

  “I’ve got to ask, Paul. Don’t take offense by this, please,” she touched his face lightly.

  “No, Alexis, I’m not making a pass at you.”

  “How’d you know I was going to ask that?”

  “Because I just thought about the way I said it. I didn’t mean to,” he took a deep breath. “Alexis, I have to tell you, I’m gay.”

  She smiled. “And?”

  “And nothing. I’m gay, that’s it.”

  “Paul, what does that have to do with anything? I think you’re an attractive man. I don’t care who you sleep with. Sometimes I don’t care who I sleep with,” she paused. “What do you want, really want?”

  “You’re not offended?” Paul smiled.

  “No. Too many people get hung up on who others sleep with. I could care less. I care about people. People in general.”

  “Alexis, what do you want?”

  “Right now, while we’re in town together, I’d like for us to just hang out together. If you don’t mind.”

  “I’d like that,” Paul looked up as the waiter approach them. The waiter poured Paul a small amount in a glass and gave him the cork to smell. “Perfect,” he said as he took a sip and swished it around in his mouth. “Please, pour some for the lady first.”

  Alexis took a sip of her wine. “This is really good. Thank you,” she smiled. After the waiter took their order, she gazed into Paul’s eyes. “So, are you involved with anyone special?”

  He laughed. “Actually, no, in my line of work it’s hard to settle down.”

  “I used to think that at one time, but then I met Matthew. I guess now that he’s gone, it’s back to the way it was.”

  “It must be so hard on you. I mean, you didn’t just lose him, but everything that happened to you was terrible.”

  “It was hard. It’s getting better. Well, at least, I don’t want to die anymore. I just live one day at a time,” she looked up as the waiter placed their food in front of them. “But, I still feel like there’s something or someone that I’m missing. Paul, I have to tell you, I’m just a wreck. I may look like I’m holding it all together, but I’m not.”

  “Well, you certainly are beautiful and smart,” he sighed. “I have to tell yo
u that, if I wasn’t gay…” He laughed.

  “Thanks,” she blushed. “So, tell me about you. What are you all about, besides work? Do you do anything for fun?”

  “Fun? What’s that?” He laughed.

  “Yeah, right. Sometimes I have to be reminded myself.”

  “Actually, when I can, I go deep sea diving. I also like driving racecars. I’ve my own track in Nevada. I go there and just drive really fast. And the best part about it is that I don’t have to get worried about being pulled over.”

  “Sounds like fun,” she smiled. “I like to drive fast, too. My husband got me hooked on motorcycles, but I won’t buy one. They’re no fun, unless you have someone to wrap your body around.”

  He laughed.

  They finished their dinner and he drove her back to the hotel room. She reached up and kissed him softly on the mouth. “Thank you, Paul, for a wonderful evening.”

  He touched her face and kissed her back. “I’m sorry,” he smiled.

  “Don’t be. I haven’t had a non-sexual kiss in so long. It felt really nice,” she kissed him again and then hugged him tightly. “Would you like to come in? We could share a bottle of wine and just talk. I mean, yes, we have to work tomorrow, but being your own boss does have some perks.”

  “You’re right. I’d love to come in,”

  She closed the door as he took off his suit jacket. She went into the bathroom and came out in her robe. “Hope you don’t mind.”

  “Not at all. I kicked off my shoes.”

  She called room service, ordered a few bottles of wine, and then sat next to him on the sofa near the window. He put his arm around her and she laid her head on this chest. “So, do you really think that you and Elvin can keep Matthew’s shop going?”

  “Shop?”

  “Sorry, that’s what he called it. I know, it’s a twenty story building, but he called it ‘the shop.’”

  Paul laughed. “He was a good man, wasn’t he?”

  “Yeah, he was,” she rubbed her forehead back and forth with her hand. “So, tell me more about Steven.”

  “What do you want to know?”

  “Well, I only met him for a short time. You two resemble each other, but you two are so different. What’s his story? I know yours,” she patted his leg.

  “Steven’s a wonderful man. Our father raised us and when he died, we decided to go into business together. We started out with our father’s company. It was failing, as was his health. When he passed away, we needed to fix it, if only to do it for the people left behind. So, that’s what we did. We formed the Welch Corporation. We’ve had a few stockholders so it can be regulated as a corporation, but, technically, we’re partners,” he smiled.

  “So, you travel and Steven, what? Stays behind?”

  “We grew up in Phoenix. I wanted to travel and expand our business. You know, help more people. Where I focus on businesses, Steven primarily focuses on things like hospitals. I know he has a new venture, I think he’s calling it Solutions Computer Systems. He’s going to base it out of Sars Springs. I think I told you this.”

  “What’s in Sars Springs?”

  “Well, the jobs are depleted. If you aren’t a doctor, waiter or police officer, there are basically no jobs, unless you own your own business.”

  “What’s Solutions about?”

  “It basically will provide computer systems, software, and support to surrounding businesses.”

  “What kind of businesses?”

  “He’ll start out with hospitals and insurance companies.”

  “All comes down to the health field with Steven, doesn’t it?”

  “Yeah, I think it has to do with the fact that our mother died giving birth to him. She didn’t make it to the hospital in time. It was just too far away. He never knew her, but he loved her because of the life she allowed him to have.”

  Alexis smiled. “He must be a remarkable man,”

  “He really is. He does own some small businesses on his own, but the corporation owns the larger ones. He takes care of his employees.”

  “Good. Someday, I hope that I’ll meet up with your brother again.”

  “You never know what life will bring you,” he kissed her forehead.

  “I’m glad you’re here, Paul.”

  “So am I.”

  Alexis woke up and looked over at Paul, who was lying next to her in the bed. “Um, Paul, wake up. It’s morning.”

  He rubbed his eyes. “What time is it?”

  “It’s only six. How much did we drink last night?” Alexis asked.

  “Only a few bottles,” he sat up. “Well, this is the first morning I woke up in someone else’s bed without having to worry that something happened between us.”

  She smiled. “Me, too,” she kissed his cheek. “We’re sure, aren’t we?”

  They both looked under the covers at themselves. “I think so,” Paul said. “But, of course, I’ve never been with a woman before.”

  Alexis climbed out of bed. “There’s a first time for everything,” she teased. “But, if you haven’t, I’m sure that we didn’t.”

  He got up and started to get dressed. “Well, I better get to my room and change. I did have a good time with you, Alexis.”

  “So did I,” she hugged him. “It was nice to have someone other than myself to talk to,” she walked him to the door. “I’ll see you soon.”

  She laid back on the bed and curled up with Paul’s pillow. She felt the gun and pulled it out. “Oh, god. I forgot all about this. Thank god, the safety was on. I have to be more careful,” she muttered.

  23

  ALEXIS hurried down to the lobby to meet with Kevin and Josh. “Hey, guys. All set to go?” she said as she approached them.

  “Yup. It’s only a few blocks from here. You don’t mind the walk, do you?” Josh asked.

  “No, but are you sure you two want to be seen in public with me?” she asked.

  “Let’s go. Who cares what anyone thinks. Besides, it’s so cool to be seen with such a beautiful, mature woman,” Kevin said.

  “Mature?” Alexis laughed.

  “Don’t mind him. He thinks anyone over the age of 25 is mature,” Josh said.

  “Let’s just go,” Alexis took their hands and they walked down the road to the cinema.

  The stood in line and then made their way into the theater. She leaned back and took a deep breath as the movie started. She couldn’t help herself, but she mouthed the entire dialogue to herself as she watched it.

  Josh and Kevin watched her as she watched the movie. They were in total awe of this powerful woman.

  After the movie was over, she just sat in the seat until the theater was empty. She looked over at them. “What?”

  “Nothing. We just can’t believe that you know this entire movie by heart.”

  “I told you. I love this movie,” she sighed. “Let’s go grab something to eat.”

  “Do you want to see the other films?” Kevin asked.

  “No, that’s OK. I’d rather just get something to eat.”

  “Not a problem,” Kevin took her hand.

  The three of them had lunch at a local deli and talked for a while.

  Alexis stood up. “Well, guys, I’m going to head back to the hotel. Thanks for today. I had a really good time.”

  “Thanks, Alexis. Thanks for everything.”

  “You’re welcome,” she kissed both their cheeks. “You know if I were a few years younger…”

  “We’re not that young,” Kevin said.

  “No, I’m just that old,” she walked away and headed back to her hotel.

  She walked up to the desk clerk. “Yes, I’ll be checking out on Monday morning. Tomorrow, I don’t want to be disturbed by anyone, with the exception of Mr. Welch.”

  “Yes, ma’am,” he said.

  She headed back to her room and began packing. She just wanted to relax on Sunday and not do anything, at all.

  Sunday morning arrived a bit too early for Alexis. S
he sat up in the bed and stared at herself in the mirror. It’s just time to move on. I don’t know how much longer I can continue to be Alexis, she thought.

  She lazily got out of bed, sat down on the sofa, and stared out the window. Soon, room service arrived with her standing order that wasn’t actually hers.

  “Thank you. And, please, I won’t need anything tomorrow but coffee,” she said.

  “Not a problem,” she said as she left the room.

  Alexis sat back down on the sofa and stared at the telephone. Should I call him? She wondered. “Aw, what the hell,” she picked up the phone and dialed Paul’s room number. “I’m sorry, did I wake you?”

  “Alexis? Is that you?”

  “I know. I disturbed you. I’m sorry. We can talk later.”

  “No, that’s OK. Did you need something?”

  “I wanted to talk to you. I thought you’d like to stop over for breakfast. I’m just having coffee and toast, but you can have whatever you want.”

  “I’ll be right down,” he hung up the phone.

  She put her robe on and as she walking out of the bathroom, Paul knocked on the door. “Hey, come on in. I’m sorry, that I woke you.”

  “No, that’s OK. I was awake,” he sat down next to her. “Alexis, what’s wrong?”

  She sighed. “Paul, I’m leaving town tomorrow.”

  “Oh,” he looked down. “So soon?”

  “Yeah, I think it’s time that I let Alexis go. I can’t keep up with being her anymore.”

  “Who are you going to be? What are you going to do?”

  “I was always planning on going to Vegas, but I think it’s time to go there now.”

  “Alexis, if I may ask, why now? Did something happen?”

  “Yeah,” she smiled. “I had fun yesterday. I really did. I think I need to lose myself for a while. I don’t think I’ll stay in Vegas, but right now, it’s just what I need.”

  “Why are you telling me this?”

  “To be honest, I’m not sure. I guess, this is kind of good-bye. If you and I ever see each other again, I may be a whole new person.”

  He kissed her mouth softly. “I’m sorry to see you go. I really enjoyed spending time with you. I do hope, though, that our paths will cross.”

  She wrapped her arms around him. “I’m leaving tomorrow. Will you spend the day with me?”

  “Sure, anything special planned?”

  “Well, I was just planning on watching my favorite movie, Stalag 17. I got to see it on the big screen yesterday at the film festival, but I need to watch it again.”

  “I’d love to,” he grinned. “Is my robe proper attire for this movie?”

  “Yes, definitely,” she stood up and inserted the DVD into the player.

  Paul watched her as she mouthed the dialogue of the movie. He brushed her hair out of her face and held her in his arms.

  When the movie was finished, he kissed her softly. “Alexis, what’s wrong?”

  “Sometimes I feel like I’m in a prison camp. But the camp is my own body. That’s why I need to break free,” she leaned her head back. “At the end of the movie, when he escapes, he’s going to be someone else. That’s what I need to do. I need to escape.”

  “Whatever you decide to do with your life, just make sure that you include happiness. It’s not all about business.”

  “I know, and thanks, Paul, for everything. It’s not very often that I have a man in my room without sleeping with him.”

  “Don’t you have male friends?”

  “I did, once, yes, John. He was killed. He was my best friend in the whole world. Greg was also my friend, but I killed his wife, so that kind of put a damper on that friendship.”

  “Are you alone in the world, Alexis?”

  “I have my attorney, Jason. He’s like a father to me. I also have Emily, my sister-in-law. But other than that, it’s just me. Everyone else is dead.”

  “I’m sorry, I didn’t realize.”

  “That’s OK. I contact Jason and Em and let them know that I’m still alive and where I am. I just can’t bring myself to go back to Pennsylvania. I need to make a new home and a new life for myself. I may even get a job.”

  “A job? Wow,” Paul laughed slightly.

  “Paul, I like to work. I like meeting people. I just want to go somewhere, where no one will know that I’m Alexis Garris. I want people to treat me like, well, a regular person, not an heiress.”

  “I hope you get your wish.”

  They spent the rest of the afternoon just talking. Around five, Paul stood up. “Well, Alexis, I guess this is good-bye. I’ll miss you, but I’ll never forget the past week.”

  “Me, either. Good-bye, Paul,” she kissed him softly. “Good luck.

  She closed the door and walked over to the window. She sat on the sofa and stared at the evening stars. The next thing she knew, it was already morning.

  She called down to the lobby. “Yes, please forget room service today. I’d like someone to come and get my bags and bring my car around front.”

  “Right, away,” she said.

  “Thank you,” Alexis hung up the phone and got dressed quickly.

  As she packed the gun in her suitcase, the bellboy arrived to get her bags. She looked back at the room and smiled.

  She followed him to the lobby and walked over to the desk clerk. “I’m checking out now,” she said. “Please make sure that Josh, Kevin, and Andrea get these envelopes.”

  “Yes, ma’am,” she smiled.

  “Oh, by the way, has Mr. Welch checked out yet?”

  “No, he’s not scheduled to leave until tomorrow.”

  “Good, will you please have a dozen champagne colored roses sent to his room along with a ’97 bottle of Cabernet?”

  “Yes, ma’am.”

  “Oh, yeah, here. Please send this along with those items,” she looked down at the note she wrote, Thanks, Paul, for everything-Alexis.

  “I will. I hope that you enjoyed your stay here.”

  “I did and thank you. Please tell Mr. Raymond thank you for me also,” Alexis headed out to her car.