possibilities we discussed,” he added as he gave me a pat on the backside.
Henry’s expression was priceless. His jaw almost touched the floor and his eyes grew in size.
“I bought some tickets to that concert you wanted to go to. Maybe Henry could watch Mattie for us; give him some practice for Emma Grace. What do you say, Henry?”
“I say that Jewels is on bed rest. She can’t be going to any concert,” he said irritated.
“True. However, the concert is in March.” He turned his attention back to me. “I could only get tickets for the Atlanta show so I thought we could spend the weekend painting the town. I’ll check into suites at the Ritz Carlton.”
“Sounds good?” I replied, not having the script to Gabe’s mind game in front of me.
“She’s breast feeding. She can’t be away from the baby so soon after giving birth,” Henry firmly stated, rather annoyed, but proud of his argument.
“You’re right. That’s why we’re going to take Emma Grace with us. My mom said that she would come and watch her while we’re at the concert,” he said to Henry as he slapped him lightly on the back. “I’ve worked out all the details. You don’t mind; do you Henry- just a quick trip to the city? Julia deserves it after all these months stuck in bed, don’t you think?”
“I guess,” he responded bewildered.
“Good, then it’s settled. I can’t wait,” he said, grinning from ear to ear as the front door opened.
Tommy was standing in front of John. Anxious to see my father with my own eyes, I charged the door. Before me stood a sickly old man, devoid of the vigor he once had. John’s eyes were still a light yellow and his skin was pale. He seemed a little short of breath which was concerning.
“Hi Father. How are you?” Without waiting for a reply, my nervousness kept my mouth moving. “Come in and sit down. I’ve had Gabe move a bed into the study for you so you don’t have to climb stairs. Are you hungry? I could fix you some food? Do you need to take medicine? I could get you a glass of water.”
“Julia, child, take a breath. I’m fine- just a little tired. It has been a long two weeks.”
“Come on Dad,” said Tommy, “Let’s get you to the couch. I’ll bring in your suitcase.”
Tommy walked past me, asserting control over John. It was apparent that they’d grown close through this ordeal and I was happy for my brother.
“Stop fussing over me Tommy. I can still walk.”
“Now you know how I’ve felt all these months. Sucks, doesn’t it?”
“Don’t talk like that Julia. Ladies don’t use those words.”
“Yes sir,” I said mocking him.
“I’m still fit enough to take you to task and don’t you forget it.”
“That’s it. I’m sold. John is fine,” I said, adding my estimation of his health.
Tommy walked back in carrying a package. Henry grabbed the suitcase and disappeared to place it in the study. I sat down next to my father on the sofa and Gabe sat on the arm, next to me, with his hand on the small of my back. This was obviously for Henry’s benefit. When he returned, he sat in the chair across from us- the sad chair. My father broke the tension with questions.
“How have you been, Henry? I heard that you helped your replacement get adjusted to working in our New York office. Thank you.”
“I’m fine, sir. I was sorry to hear of your illness. Your new hire is quite versed in the Spencer portfolio. He’ll be a great asset,” said Henry, acting congenial.
“Thank you. That’s good to hear. Any job prospects for you?” he quizzed.
“I’m considering some opportunities.”
“You know you have my highest recommendation.”
“Thank you, sir. I know.”
Tommy walked over to me and held out the brown paper covered package.
“This came for you. It’s from the Peruvian police department. What could that be?” he asked.
“Father John said that they would be posting my personal effects after the investigation was closed.”
“Are you sure you want to relive that event, sis?”
“No, but I want Mom’s locket and my pictures,” I replied.
Henry stood to walk over and intervene, but Gabe beat him to the punch.
“Come on. You and I will open it together. Let’s put the past in the past.”
Henry and I looked at each other. It was clear to me that he wanted to be the one to get me through it. Maybe Gabe’s plan was working. Regardless of who helped