Hello everyone. As I said before, "Baby it's Cold Outside" was intended to be just one story, but as time went on I told myself there was more to be said. With that in mind I present the second part of said story entitled "Love Conquers All" which picks up right where part one left off.
I look forward to your feedback good or bad. Thank you.
Morning comes, not that Rachel’s room would give you any indication of that. Sealed off in a part of the mansion with no windows the room remains pitch black at all times lit only by artificial light.
Luke is the first of them to stir and as his mind begins to function, memories of midnight begin to resurface. There’s a look of content on his
face as he rakes his fingers through Rachel’s hair and massages her scalp and it’s through this gentle act that she too begins to wake.
“Good morning beautiful.” He says propping his head on his hand.
“Mmm… Morning.” She says sleepily.
He gives her a kiss before putting on his briefs to retreat to the bathroom and rinse his face. The ice cold water against his skin wakes him faster than the strongest dose of adrenaline and in no time flat he’s ready to face the day.
Back in the bedroom his smile turns to a frown, “Hey lazy bones it’s time to get up!” He says switching on a lamp.
Rachel responds by pulling the covers over her face and letting out a load groan, “I don’t wanna.” She complains.
“Then you leave me no choice…” Luke says under his breath.
Scaling the bed and sprawling towards his cousin, Luke pins her under his weight and thrusts his hands into her silky smooth underarms,
“Time for good morning tickles!” He shouts in exhilaration.
“WHA-HA-HA-HA! OH SH-SHIT-TA-AH-HA-HA! IT’S TOO EARLY-YEE-HEE-HEE!” Rachel cries out in ecstasy.
“I told you to get up!” Luke banters back.
Rachel’s body contorts to the limits her cousin allows as his fingers poke and prod the tender hollows of her armpits, “LUKE PLEE-HEE-HEE-ASE! STOP T-THAT-TA-HA-HA-HA! I’M SERIOUS!”
She clasps his wrists in a futile attempt to wrestle him off her body, “Oh no you don’t!” Luke says pinning her arms to the bed.
Shaking her head in disapproval Rachel watches helplessly as her cousin’s fingers dangle inches above her ribs, “Come on Luke… This is so not fair…”
Luke’s wriggling fingers rain down on her ribs giving each side an equal amount of attention, “Cootchie, cootchie coo!” He says taunting her like a toddler.
Rachel’s mouth gapes open allowing a medley of contagious laughter to pour out, “NOT FAIR! NOT F-FAIR-RA-HA-HA-HA! GET OFF-FA-HA-HA-HA!”
She bucks like a wild mare at a rodeo violently tossing Luke off her body. He lands at her feet which have conveniently peeked out from under the covers. Wasting no time he straddles her legs and gets a strong grip on soles, “LUKE NO-HO-HO! COME ON PLEE-HEE-HEE-ASE! IT’S TORTURE! LEAVE ME FEEEET ALONE-NA-HA-HA-HA!” Rachel pleads ecstatically.
“Come now Rach it can’t be that bad. Besides, laughter is good for the soul. No pun intended.” Luke jokes.
Rachel cackles with delight as her cousin’s fingers run down her soles tracing every wrinkle with unrestrained intensity, “YOU’RE SO FUNNY-YEE-HEE-HEE-HEE! A REAL CLASS ACT-TA-HA-HA-HA!”
“You know what they say, everyone’s a comedian!” Luke cleverly responds.
Rachel starts to cough and is graced with a time out; as Luke has no interest in seeing her choke on her own saliva, “Enough is… enough… Please… Luke…” She gasps.
Luke’s belly lets out a low grumble to which he quickly quips, “Tickling you sure builds up an appetite.”
“Let’s make a deal?” Rachel blurts. “Let me go, and I’ll make you the best breakfast you’ve ever had in your life!”
The aroma of sizzling bacon and freshly made pancakes fills the mansion as Luke stares out a window at the damage of last night’s snowstorm. His truck’s tires submerged in snow are in no condition to be budged and at the rate the sun was shining it would be hours before anything melted.
Meanwhile, Rachel’s kitchen savvy is in full effect as she single handedly cooks and cleans wearing nothing but a long white t-shirt. Her blonde hair sits high above her head in a ponytail to avoid any stray strands in the meal, “Breakfast is almost ready.” She says as her cousin enters the room.
“Smells delicious.” He smiles, mesmerized by her sheer beauty radiating like warm glowing light, “You rival the sunshine Rachel.” He says leaning in to kiss her.
Breakfast is a quick and quiet affair as the thick pancakes and savory bacon would make even an auctioneer mum for a while. And it’s in this instance that the silence is disturbed by a loud creak coming from the entrance of the house, “Rachel!” A burly voice calls out.
“In here daddy!” She replies.
Luke’s heart begins to race as the approaching footsteps of his uncle come nearer and nearer. It takes Rachel’s reassuring eyes to calm him as she mouths, “Relax.”
“Rachel!” Her dad says wrapping his arms around his daughter.
“You’re home early!” She remarks.
He makes no comment of it, but Peter’s quick to spot his daughter’s skimpy attire, “I couldn’t stay away from my little girl on Christmas!”
Luke stands to his feet and extends his hand, “Uncle Pete.” He says shakily.
“Luke, fancy seeing you here.” He says flashing a smile.
“He’s been keeping me company in your absence daddy.” Rachel explains.
“Well that’s mighty kind of you Luke. Stop in this morning did you?” He enquires.
“Last night.” Luke says plainly.
“You spent the night?” Peter asks crossing his arms.
Rachel is quick to interject, “The snow was coming down something terrible daddy, I was afraid his truck might not make it.”
“Hmm, that’s your truck out there?” Peter asks looking out the window.
“Yes sir.”
“I’ll call AAA and have them shovel it out. Consider it a Christmas gift. I mean, it’s the least I can do.” Peter says keeping a stern eye on his nephew.
Rachel breaks the building tension by offering her father some breakfast to which he courteously accepts. And as Peter enjoys his meal Luke excuses himself into the sun soaked snow to have a smoke and patiently wait for AAA.
“Where’s the rest of your clothes young lady?” Peter finally asks.
“It’s just Luke daddy.” Rachel insists twirling a lock of hair around her finger.
“Even so, he’s still a young man. Now I’d appreciate it very much if you’d go cover up.” He says pointing towards the stairs.
“I’m not a little girl anymore. You have no right to treat me like this.” Rachel says turning stone cold.
“Treat you how? I am your father. This is my house and if you expect to continue living here I suggest you start listening.” He says through a forkful of pancake.
“But daddy…”
“Look, I’ve held my tongue about the fact that you refuse to get an education. I’ve held my tongue about how you spend my money on worthless crap, but I’ll be damned if I let my daughter walk around in THAT.” He interjects.
Frustrated and angry Rachel storms off; stomping the floor with all her weight.
A pain in his chest makes Peter wince as he sops up the last of the syrup on his plate, “Too much sugar ol’ boy.” He says to himself patting his big round belly.
For years his doctors had been encouraging him to go on a weight loss program, and for years he’d shunned the idea with the same carefree statement, “Wealthy, fat and proud of that.”
Abandoning his dirty dish Peter escapes into the family room to sit and watch television. His big comfy chair against the wall served many purposes, but more often than not it was where he’d come to think. And after sinking into its plushy seat the wheels in his mind begin to turn.
Rachel returns dressed in jeans and a sweater, “Sit.” He tells her.
“Yes?” She says hesitantly taking a seat on the floor by his side.
“I need you to be perfectly honest with me…” He starts.
“Honest? About what?”
Peter takes a deep breath before continuing, “Promise me nothing happened between you and Luke last night.”
“Daddy!” She shrieks, “How could you even think…”
“Oh? You think I don’t remember the two of you playing doctor at almost every family function? The way you used to let him “examine” your body for “sensitivity”?” Peter rants.
Rachel turns to face her father whose brow already has beads of sweat traced around it, “Dad, those were just innocent little games we’d play as kids.” Rachel explains.
“Maybe so, but I couldn’t take that chance then, and I can’t take it now.”
Rachel clutches her father’s hand, “What do you mean, couldn’t? Dad what are you saying?”
“When your mother, god rest her soul and I saw how close you two were getting we decided it best to leave Abilene for Fort Worth. It was around the same time my company was expanding, so it made sense.”
“You mean it was a convenient cover up.” Rachel murmurs.
“Don’t give me that look darling. Are you really going to get mad over something we did twelve years ago?” Peter asks staring deeply into her tear stricken eyes.
“I just can’t believe you lied to me. The day we left, was the day I lost a friend.” Rachel says somberly. Her conniving tongue quickly turns the conversation in her favor, as she’s no longer the subject, but rather the victim.
“I’m so sorry darling. We were just doing what we thought was best for you, breaking you of an unhealthy relationship.” Peter sighs.
“I understand daddy.” Rachel says rising to her feet.
Peter squeezes her arm and yanks her within earshot, “But if he ever so much as looks at you in any way sexually, I’ll have him arrested. Do you understand that?”
His words make her tremble and it takes every ounce of her being to steady her quivering arm, “Yes daddy.” She says quietly.
The shuffle of slow steady feet causes them both to turn and face the entrance as Luke approaches holding a pen and clipboard, “I’m sorry am I interrupting something?” He says casually.
“Not at all. What is it Luke?” Peter says rising from his chair.
“AAA needs your signature, for their services.” He says handing Peter the pen.
A causal glance towards his cousin makes him fully aware something had gone down in his absence. Her sunken face, her bloodshot eyes pieces of a tiny mystery he’d be scratching his head over until they were alone again, “Thanks again Uncle Pete.”
Luke exits the room to finalize his transaction with the AAA roadside service assistant. Peter returns to his chair and to the college football game being broadcast.
“Sorry to eat and run, but a job opportunity’s come up and I’ll be headed for Southlake.” Luke says as he re-enters the room.
His uncle can’t smile wide enough as he stands up to bid him adieu, “Rachel! Comes say goodbye to Luke!”
Rachel comes into the family room sunken head and arms crossed, “Thanks for everything Luke.” She says hugging him from the side.
The drab tone in her speech and her lackluster embrace makes Luke’s emotions run wild within his mind, “What’s got her so down?” He thinks to himself.
“Indeed Luke. Thanks for stopping by. Be sure to wish your mother and father well on my behalf.” Peter says quickly.
Luke isn’t halfway down the street when his cellphone alerts him of an incoming text message, “We need to talk - Rachel.”
The house is quiet again as its inhabitance remain glued to the third quarter of a tied college football game. Peter’s passion for the sport had led him into a career as a high school coach before he struck oil, and a part of him wishes he was still on the gridiron offering tutelage from the sidelines. Rachel, far less invested in the game keeps a more watchful eye on her father’s whiskey topping him off at every opportunity.
The bottle’s almost empty by the start of the fourth quarter. Peter whose unrelenting focus had been on the game was now starting to flounder as he struggled to stay awake. Drunken euphoria accompanied by the comfort of his recliner proved to be a potent combination as he’s out like a light before the next kickoff. Leaving a note by his side Rachel tiptoes past him and out the door headed straight for Southlake.
“Dear dad,
Gone out shopping with the gals, be home later.
Love, Rachel.”
The sun is quickly setting as Rachel speed walks her way through a sea of parked cars outside an outlet mall. Hordes of Texans parade the grounds running from store to store almost as if to see how fast they can max out their credit cards. And it’s in this melee that Rachel thrusts herself in search of Luke, “Where are you?” She texts him.
“Food court.” He replies.
The alluring aromas of grilled barbecue awaken her sense of smell as she enters the food court. Seated amongst the masses in a stainless steel chair is Luke who’s staring down at his phone. She shuffles past the crowds before he even bothers to lift his head, “Hey, hey!” She says tapping him on the shoulder.
He looks up and flashes her smile, “Cousin, didn’t think I’d be seeing you again so soon.”
Rachel rests a hand on her forehead and sits across from Luke, “I know, but I had to talk to you.”
“I noticed you were a little shook up earlier, before I left. Was it something your dad said?” Luke asks leaning in closer to her.
“He doesn’t like you very much. He’s suspicious of our intentions.” Rachel says taking a casual look at her surroundings.
“I’m willing to bet he told you to mind your distance.” Luke says raising a brow.
“Yes.”
“That bastard. Look, I’m sorry I got you into this mess Rach, but I think for both our sakes it’s time to let go.” Luke says pulling away from the table.
“I wish it was that simple.” Rachel says solemnly.
“Rachel, it was one night. You’ll be over me in no time.” Luke replies.
“No, not that. I think I’m pregnant.”
The world around them suddenly becomes mute as Luke lets her words sink in. His heart doesn’t know whether to soar with happiness or sink to the pit of his stomach in despair, “How could you know that already? Most women don’t show signs of pregnancy until they’re three weeks deep!” Luke ponders aloud, “And besides I pulled out!”
“While the margins are small, women have been known to get pregnant off of pre-cum.”
Luke’s baffled expression says what his tongue cannot muster to and it takes Rachel’s reassuring hand to snap him back into the here and now, “If this is true, if you turn out pregnant…”
Rachel chokes up at the thought, “He’ll disown me, and kick me out. I’ll have to get a job. You… he’ll have you arrested if he doesn’t kill you first.”
“We could run away.” Luke suggests reaching for her hand.
“Luke, that’s real sweet of you, but we have to face the facts. Neither of us is fit to support a family. And if my father ever found out he’d hunt us both down. ” Rachel says pulling her hand away.
Luke nods in agreement, “Then what do you suggest we do?”
“My father’s rich, you know that as well as I do. And in case you hadn’t noticed, dad’s health is walking a fine line. Do you know what would happen if he were to die?” Rachel says leaning into Luke.
“You’d inherit his wealth.”
Luke’s voice lacks the enthusiasm Rachel was hoping for and there’s sorrow in his eyes as he looks out into the sunset, “We’re no murderers.” He says sternly.
“We could blame it on his poor diet. I mean come on; the man’s been digging himself into an early grave the way he eats!” She persists.
“You’re stupid if you think it’s that easy. A crime like that takes intellect, and you’ve been so spoiled your entire life, you’ve never needed any.”
Luke’s furious rebuttal is not without reason, as his potent words chop her down like a tree in the middle of the forest, “I know, you’re right.”
Luke buries his head in his hands and rubs his eyes of sleep deprivation, “There’s only one thing left to do. As soon as it’s possible, you abort that child.”
Rachel lowers her head in an effort to hide her tears. She knew Luke’s response was the most sensible idea they’d ever come up with, but even still the thought of it brought her no comfort whatsoever.
Luke stands and wraps his arms around her offering warmth and compassion, “I’m sorry, but that baby cannot be born, not with your father looming over us.”
It’s a slow painful walk back out into the parking lot as the two trudge along seemingly inches at a time. Hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder he escorts her back to her luxury sedan. There are no words exchanged, no quick witty jokes to ease the discomfort, just a hug and a kiss goodbye. With hate for himself and fear in his eyes Luke follows her car until the taillights are no longer visible.
Three painstaking weeks pass in sadness and seclusion. In the confines of her room Rachel lies under a sea of sheets. There’s not an inch of her room that doesn’t remind her of Luke and the passionate exchange they’d shared. Since she’d broken him the news his support had strengthened tenfold through conversations and messages filled with hope, “Today’s the day. I don’t want to do this.” She texts out.
Minutes feel like hours as she grips her phone anxiously awaiting a reply. She gets out of bed and stands against a mirror gazing at her protruding belly. Loosely fitted shirts had become the apparel, a disguise to hide a nasty truth.
Her phone vibrates to life and blaring white floods the screen as an incoming text message pops up, “We have to. Is your father away on business again?” Luke asks.
“Yes.” Rachel responds.
“I’ll meet you at the clinic. You’ll be in no condition to drive, so I’ll have to drive you around.” Luke says.
Rachel steps out of her room in hot pink yoga pants and a loosely fitted t shirt. She’s about to help herself to a cereal bar when she’s reminded of the doctor’s orders not to eat six hours prior to the procedure. Gripping her grumbling belly she puts on a coat and heads out the door.
She’d always revved the engine in her sedan testing its limits on the highway, turning a blind eye to speed signs, but not today. Staying off the fast lane she adheres to the rules of the road keeping a steady pace along a white haired grandmother in an old jalopy, “What the fuck Rachel?” She scoffs to herself.
As the miles goes by, the magnitude of what’s about to occur strengthens its resolve. Trying her best not to think about it Rachel turns on the radio and blasts energetic pop music for the rest of the trip.
Faded brown bricks make up the face of what would otherwise be just another old building off a plaza of various clinics. There are no brazen banners or vivid logos, just a subtle simple sign, “West Side Clinic” plastered against the side of the structure. Aside from a couple of cars it’s pretty much empty making Luke’s white pickup easy to spot, “He must be inside.” She says noticing the empty vehicle.
A stale cold runs past her body as she opens the door to a waiting room full of ugly green chairs. Luke is seated in one of them swiping through his phone, “Luke.” Rachel calls out tenderly.
He looks up, smiles and stands to envelop her body into his big strong arms. His stubble tickles her forehead as she nestles her tear stricken face into his chest, “It’s okay. It’s okay.” He says as the salty discharge seems through his black shirt.
“Tell me I’m doing the right thing.” She says looking up at him.
“It’s for the best. We made a mistake. This is our chance to erase it.”
Rachel sobs a bit more before composing herself and signing in. There’s an air of embarrassment as the receptionist stares up at her with remorse enough so that she contemplates making a dash for the door. But just as she turns to face the exit she’s reminded of her father and his stern promise to her. And before she can contemplate any longer, a nurse in light blue scrubs peeks through a doorway and shouts her name, “RACHEL!” She bellows scanning the room.
“Just a minute nurse.” Rushing over to Luke she hands him her keys and phone, “Well this is it.” She says.
“Be strong Rach.” Luke says giving her a hug.
Her legs begin to tremble as she makes her grand exit from the waiting room leaving behind more than just Luke, but a foreseeable future as well.
“That your boyfriend out there?” The nurse asks, taking Rachel’s height and weight.
“My cousin.” Rachel replies softly.
“And your boyfriend? He couldn’t make it?” The nurse continues.
“It’s complicated.” Rachel says flashing a smile.
“I see, well your cousin’s a good man for taking the time to bring you out.”
“Yes he is.” Rachel says.
There’s nothing extravagant about the room she’s escorted to. Dull brown walls adorned with random pictures don’t make for much of a view. The table, aside from two leg supports looks just like the one she remembers seeing as an adolescent, down to the thin white tissue paper.
“If you could please change into this…” The nurse says handing her a short pink gown.
“Not exactly Louis Vuitton is it?” Rachel smirks inspecting the garment.
The nurse lets out a quick chuckle, “The doctor will be with you shortly.” She says excusing herself.
The cold floor feels like tiny pin pricks on her delicate soles as she removes her shoes, peels away the rest of her ensemble and slips into the gown. Just as she finishes forming her clothes into a neat pile the door opens. A tall slender man with shades of grey about his hair walks in carrying a clipboard. To his contrast a much shorter portly woman stands at his side holding a bottle of what looked like white cream.
“Hello Miss Stockton.” He smiles extending his hand. “I’m doctor Barnett, I’ll be conducting your procedure today. This is our anesthesiologist Dr. Kempler.”
Rachel’s heart which was already throbbing began to pump even faster at the thought of being anesthetized, “I’ve never been put to sleep before.” Rachel confesses.
“Oh you have nothing to worry about. You’re in good hands here.” He says patting is assistant on the back, “I guarantee you won’t feel a thing. Now, there are just a couple of questions I need to get out of the way before we can begin is that alright?”
Rachel takes a seat and runs her fingers along the cold steel of the leg supports, “Yes.” She says staring blankly at her feet.
“Excuse me, but can we change the channel over here?” Luke asks pointing to a flat screen.
The receptionist, a pale complected freckle face hands Luke the remote, her cherry red nails glistening under the lights of the office.
Luke rifles through the channels until he comes upon a sitcom rerun, “At least it’s not CNN. “ He thinks to himself.
Just as the show’s starting to make sense a loud blaring ring comes from Rachel’s phone. He stares down at the screen to an unrecognized number accompanying the incoming call. But after a couple of rings Luke silences the phone sending the call strait to voicemail. Not two minutes removed her phone goes off again alerting Luke of an incoming message and in his curiousness he plays the recording.
“Miss Stockton, this is William Blane. I work alongside your father. Unfortunately there’s been an accident. It’s your father’s heart. He’s… he’s gone Miss Stockton. His body’s being taken to Harris Methodist on Pennsylvania. Call me back as soon as you get this.”
No sooner is the message over that Luke is on his feet rushing towards reception, “Excuse me Miss, but I need to get back there!” He says in a panic.
Taken by his exuberance the receptionist fumbles for words, “Who? What?” She babbles.
“The patient’s name is Rachel Stockton. She’s in there about to abort a baby. Please open the door!”
“Let me see.” The receptionist says keeping a less than enthused tone of voice, “I’ll be right back.” She says stretching to her feet.
“Please hurry.” Luke says with restrained lividness.
Receptionist Brenda Strong breaks into a quick stride as she makes her way down a corridor of rooms, “Dr. Barnett!” She cries out knocking feverishly against the door to room #12.
The door opens just enough to see half of his face, “Yes Miss Strong?”
“Have you started on Rachel Stockton yet, because there’s a man out in the waiting room who’d like to have a word with you about her.”
Dr. Barnett nods his head, “She’s just been put under, but I can spare a minute.”
As Rachel remains sedated and spellbound to the incantations of Propofol Luke explains their situation with every bit of poignancy he has. And it’s through this pain and sorrow that Dr. Barnett finds a shred of sympathy to override his orders.
“Take me to her.” Luke says demandingly.
Dr. Barnett is happy to oblige, “She’s still unconscious, but the medication should wear off in about fifteen minutes.”
Luke sits on a stool in the corner of the room waiting anxiously for his cousin to stir. Time couldn’t go any slower as he watches the seconds tic away on a big round clock towards the back of the room.
“Miss Stockton?” Dr. Kempler whispers softly.
Rachel’s eyes begin to flutter out of the darkness as the surroundings she’d momentarily abandoned came to life again.
“Miss Stockton, there’s someone here who’d really like to see you.” The doctor continues.
“Luke…” Rachel’s voice is strained and groggy as she slowly fixates on her cousin.
“I’ll leave you two alone.” The doctor says making a swift exit.
Luke rushes to her side and grips her tender hand, “Hey sleepy head.”
“Is it over?” Rachel asks sadly.
“I have some news…” Luke says stroking the back of her hand.
“Oh?” She says struggling to sit upright.
“Rachel, you’re father’s passed. Heart failure, just like you predicted.” He says with a smile.
Rachel lowers her head, “Great. Now I can use his death to secretly grieve my own loss.”
“Well, there’s more…” Luke says enthusiastically, “As soon as I found out, I cancelled your abortion. Rachel you’re still…we’re still pregnant.”
A smirk crawls on her face the likes of which he hadn’t seen since their night at the mansion, “Oh my God Luke… that means…”
“You’re going to be a mother.” Luke says kissing her on the lips.
“And you’re going to be a father. We’re going to be a family.” She says leaning in to kiss him.
“I’ll get on the phone and have his company prep the funeral arrangements.” Luke says whipping out her phone.
“Yes. The sooner he’s in the hole, the sooner we can move on with our lives!” Rachel’s triumphant vocals cry out.
Rain pours down on a small mass of people that have gathered to remember Peter Stockton the man, the boss and the father. And it’s in this storm that no one can see past Rachel’s fabricated grief. Droplets of water are mistaken for tears, thunderous claps for agonizing screams. And not even the slickest detective with an eye for detail would have given it a second thought, watching her grip her cousin’s hand, interlocking her fingers in the spaces between his.
I look forward to your feedback good or bad. Thank you.
"Love Conquers All"
Morning comes, not that Rachel’s room would give you any indication of that. Sealed off in a part of the mansion with no windows the room remains pitch black at all times lit only by artificial light.
Luke is the first of them to stir and as his mind begins to function, memories of midnight begin to resurface. There’s a look of content on his
face as he rakes his fingers through Rachel’s hair and massages her scalp and it’s through this gentle act that she too begins to wake.
“Good morning beautiful.” He says propping his head on his hand.
“Mmm… Morning.” She says sleepily.
He gives her a kiss before putting on his briefs to retreat to the bathroom and rinse his face. The ice cold water against his skin wakes him faster than the strongest dose of adrenaline and in no time flat he’s ready to face the day.
Back in the bedroom his smile turns to a frown, “Hey lazy bones it’s time to get up!” He says switching on a lamp.
Rachel responds by pulling the covers over her face and letting out a load groan, “I don’t wanna.” She complains.
“Then you leave me no choice…” Luke says under his breath.
Scaling the bed and sprawling towards his cousin, Luke pins her under his weight and thrusts his hands into her silky smooth underarms,
“Time for good morning tickles!” He shouts in exhilaration.
“WHA-HA-HA-HA! OH SH-SHIT-TA-AH-HA-HA! IT’S TOO EARLY-YEE-HEE-HEE!” Rachel cries out in ecstasy.
“I told you to get up!” Luke banters back.
Rachel’s body contorts to the limits her cousin allows as his fingers poke and prod the tender hollows of her armpits, “LUKE PLEE-HEE-HEE-ASE! STOP T-THAT-TA-HA-HA-HA! I’M SERIOUS!”
She clasps his wrists in a futile attempt to wrestle him off her body, “Oh no you don’t!” Luke says pinning her arms to the bed.
Shaking her head in disapproval Rachel watches helplessly as her cousin’s fingers dangle inches above her ribs, “Come on Luke… This is so not fair…”
Luke’s wriggling fingers rain down on her ribs giving each side an equal amount of attention, “Cootchie, cootchie coo!” He says taunting her like a toddler.
Rachel’s mouth gapes open allowing a medley of contagious laughter to pour out, “NOT FAIR! NOT F-FAIR-RA-HA-HA-HA! GET OFF-FA-HA-HA-HA!”
She bucks like a wild mare at a rodeo violently tossing Luke off her body. He lands at her feet which have conveniently peeked out from under the covers. Wasting no time he straddles her legs and gets a strong grip on soles, “LUKE NO-HO-HO! COME ON PLEE-HEE-HEE-ASE! IT’S TORTURE! LEAVE ME FEEEET ALONE-NA-HA-HA-HA!” Rachel pleads ecstatically.
“Come now Rach it can’t be that bad. Besides, laughter is good for the soul. No pun intended.” Luke jokes.
Rachel cackles with delight as her cousin’s fingers run down her soles tracing every wrinkle with unrestrained intensity, “YOU’RE SO FUNNY-YEE-HEE-HEE-HEE! A REAL CLASS ACT-TA-HA-HA-HA!”
“You know what they say, everyone’s a comedian!” Luke cleverly responds.
Rachel starts to cough and is graced with a time out; as Luke has no interest in seeing her choke on her own saliva, “Enough is… enough… Please… Luke…” She gasps.
Luke’s belly lets out a low grumble to which he quickly quips, “Tickling you sure builds up an appetite.”
“Let’s make a deal?” Rachel blurts. “Let me go, and I’ll make you the best breakfast you’ve ever had in your life!”
***
The aroma of sizzling bacon and freshly made pancakes fills the mansion as Luke stares out a window at the damage of last night’s snowstorm. His truck’s tires submerged in snow are in no condition to be budged and at the rate the sun was shining it would be hours before anything melted.
Meanwhile, Rachel’s kitchen savvy is in full effect as she single handedly cooks and cleans wearing nothing but a long white t-shirt. Her blonde hair sits high above her head in a ponytail to avoid any stray strands in the meal, “Breakfast is almost ready.” She says as her cousin enters the room.
“Smells delicious.” He smiles, mesmerized by her sheer beauty radiating like warm glowing light, “You rival the sunshine Rachel.” He says leaning in to kiss her.
Breakfast is a quick and quiet affair as the thick pancakes and savory bacon would make even an auctioneer mum for a while. And it’s in this instance that the silence is disturbed by a loud creak coming from the entrance of the house, “Rachel!” A burly voice calls out.
“In here daddy!” She replies.
Luke’s heart begins to race as the approaching footsteps of his uncle come nearer and nearer. It takes Rachel’s reassuring eyes to calm him as she mouths, “Relax.”
“Rachel!” Her dad says wrapping his arms around his daughter.
“You’re home early!” She remarks.
He makes no comment of it, but Peter’s quick to spot his daughter’s skimpy attire, “I couldn’t stay away from my little girl on Christmas!”
Luke stands to his feet and extends his hand, “Uncle Pete.” He says shakily.
“Luke, fancy seeing you here.” He says flashing a smile.
“He’s been keeping me company in your absence daddy.” Rachel explains.
“Well that’s mighty kind of you Luke. Stop in this morning did you?” He enquires.
“Last night.” Luke says plainly.
“You spent the night?” Peter asks crossing his arms.
Rachel is quick to interject, “The snow was coming down something terrible daddy, I was afraid his truck might not make it.”
“Hmm, that’s your truck out there?” Peter asks looking out the window.
“Yes sir.”
“I’ll call AAA and have them shovel it out. Consider it a Christmas gift. I mean, it’s the least I can do.” Peter says keeping a stern eye on his nephew.
Rachel breaks the building tension by offering her father some breakfast to which he courteously accepts. And as Peter enjoys his meal Luke excuses himself into the sun soaked snow to have a smoke and patiently wait for AAA.
“Where’s the rest of your clothes young lady?” Peter finally asks.
“It’s just Luke daddy.” Rachel insists twirling a lock of hair around her finger.
“Even so, he’s still a young man. Now I’d appreciate it very much if you’d go cover up.” He says pointing towards the stairs.
“I’m not a little girl anymore. You have no right to treat me like this.” Rachel says turning stone cold.
“Treat you how? I am your father. This is my house and if you expect to continue living here I suggest you start listening.” He says through a forkful of pancake.
“But daddy…”
“Look, I’ve held my tongue about the fact that you refuse to get an education. I’ve held my tongue about how you spend my money on worthless crap, but I’ll be damned if I let my daughter walk around in THAT.” He interjects.
Frustrated and angry Rachel storms off; stomping the floor with all her weight.
A pain in his chest makes Peter wince as he sops up the last of the syrup on his plate, “Too much sugar ol’ boy.” He says to himself patting his big round belly.
For years his doctors had been encouraging him to go on a weight loss program, and for years he’d shunned the idea with the same carefree statement, “Wealthy, fat and proud of that.”
Abandoning his dirty dish Peter escapes into the family room to sit and watch television. His big comfy chair against the wall served many purposes, but more often than not it was where he’d come to think. And after sinking into its plushy seat the wheels in his mind begin to turn.
Rachel returns dressed in jeans and a sweater, “Sit.” He tells her.
“Yes?” She says hesitantly taking a seat on the floor by his side.
“I need you to be perfectly honest with me…” He starts.
“Honest? About what?”
Peter takes a deep breath before continuing, “Promise me nothing happened between you and Luke last night.”
“Daddy!” She shrieks, “How could you even think…”
“Oh? You think I don’t remember the two of you playing doctor at almost every family function? The way you used to let him “examine” your body for “sensitivity”?” Peter rants.
Rachel turns to face her father whose brow already has beads of sweat traced around it, “Dad, those were just innocent little games we’d play as kids.” Rachel explains.
“Maybe so, but I couldn’t take that chance then, and I can’t take it now.”
Rachel clutches her father’s hand, “What do you mean, couldn’t? Dad what are you saying?”
“When your mother, god rest her soul and I saw how close you two were getting we decided it best to leave Abilene for Fort Worth. It was around the same time my company was expanding, so it made sense.”
“You mean it was a convenient cover up.” Rachel murmurs.
“Don’t give me that look darling. Are you really going to get mad over something we did twelve years ago?” Peter asks staring deeply into her tear stricken eyes.
“I just can’t believe you lied to me. The day we left, was the day I lost a friend.” Rachel says somberly. Her conniving tongue quickly turns the conversation in her favor, as she’s no longer the subject, but rather the victim.
“I’m so sorry darling. We were just doing what we thought was best for you, breaking you of an unhealthy relationship.” Peter sighs.
“I understand daddy.” Rachel says rising to her feet.
Peter squeezes her arm and yanks her within earshot, “But if he ever so much as looks at you in any way sexually, I’ll have him arrested. Do you understand that?”
His words make her tremble and it takes every ounce of her being to steady her quivering arm, “Yes daddy.” She says quietly.
The shuffle of slow steady feet causes them both to turn and face the entrance as Luke approaches holding a pen and clipboard, “I’m sorry am I interrupting something?” He says casually.
“Not at all. What is it Luke?” Peter says rising from his chair.
“AAA needs your signature, for their services.” He says handing Peter the pen.
A causal glance towards his cousin makes him fully aware something had gone down in his absence. Her sunken face, her bloodshot eyes pieces of a tiny mystery he’d be scratching his head over until they were alone again, “Thanks again Uncle Pete.”
Luke exits the room to finalize his transaction with the AAA roadside service assistant. Peter returns to his chair and to the college football game being broadcast.
“Sorry to eat and run, but a job opportunity’s come up and I’ll be headed for Southlake.” Luke says as he re-enters the room.
His uncle can’t smile wide enough as he stands up to bid him adieu, “Rachel! Comes say goodbye to Luke!”
Rachel comes into the family room sunken head and arms crossed, “Thanks for everything Luke.” She says hugging him from the side.
The drab tone in her speech and her lackluster embrace makes Luke’s emotions run wild within his mind, “What’s got her so down?” He thinks to himself.
“Indeed Luke. Thanks for stopping by. Be sure to wish your mother and father well on my behalf.” Peter says quickly.
Luke isn’t halfway down the street when his cellphone alerts him of an incoming text message, “We need to talk - Rachel.”
***
The house is quiet again as its inhabitance remain glued to the third quarter of a tied college football game. Peter’s passion for the sport had led him into a career as a high school coach before he struck oil, and a part of him wishes he was still on the gridiron offering tutelage from the sidelines. Rachel, far less invested in the game keeps a more watchful eye on her father’s whiskey topping him off at every opportunity.
The bottle’s almost empty by the start of the fourth quarter. Peter whose unrelenting focus had been on the game was now starting to flounder as he struggled to stay awake. Drunken euphoria accompanied by the comfort of his recliner proved to be a potent combination as he’s out like a light before the next kickoff. Leaving a note by his side Rachel tiptoes past him and out the door headed straight for Southlake.
“Dear dad,
Gone out shopping with the gals, be home later.
Love, Rachel.”
***
The sun is quickly setting as Rachel speed walks her way through a sea of parked cars outside an outlet mall. Hordes of Texans parade the grounds running from store to store almost as if to see how fast they can max out their credit cards. And it’s in this melee that Rachel thrusts herself in search of Luke, “Where are you?” She texts him.
“Food court.” He replies.
The alluring aromas of grilled barbecue awaken her sense of smell as she enters the food court. Seated amongst the masses in a stainless steel chair is Luke who’s staring down at his phone. She shuffles past the crowds before he even bothers to lift his head, “Hey, hey!” She says tapping him on the shoulder.
He looks up and flashes her smile, “Cousin, didn’t think I’d be seeing you again so soon.”
Rachel rests a hand on her forehead and sits across from Luke, “I know, but I had to talk to you.”
“I noticed you were a little shook up earlier, before I left. Was it something your dad said?” Luke asks leaning in closer to her.
“He doesn’t like you very much. He’s suspicious of our intentions.” Rachel says taking a casual look at her surroundings.
“I’m willing to bet he told you to mind your distance.” Luke says raising a brow.
“Yes.”
“That bastard. Look, I’m sorry I got you into this mess Rach, but I think for both our sakes it’s time to let go.” Luke says pulling away from the table.
“I wish it was that simple.” Rachel says solemnly.
“Rachel, it was one night. You’ll be over me in no time.” Luke replies.
“No, not that. I think I’m pregnant.”
The world around them suddenly becomes mute as Luke lets her words sink in. His heart doesn’t know whether to soar with happiness or sink to the pit of his stomach in despair, “How could you know that already? Most women don’t show signs of pregnancy until they’re three weeks deep!” Luke ponders aloud, “And besides I pulled out!”
“While the margins are small, women have been known to get pregnant off of pre-cum.”
Luke’s baffled expression says what his tongue cannot muster to and it takes Rachel’s reassuring hand to snap him back into the here and now, “If this is true, if you turn out pregnant…”
Rachel chokes up at the thought, “He’ll disown me, and kick me out. I’ll have to get a job. You… he’ll have you arrested if he doesn’t kill you first.”
“We could run away.” Luke suggests reaching for her hand.
“Luke, that’s real sweet of you, but we have to face the facts. Neither of us is fit to support a family. And if my father ever found out he’d hunt us both down. ” Rachel says pulling her hand away.
Luke nods in agreement, “Then what do you suggest we do?”
“My father’s rich, you know that as well as I do. And in case you hadn’t noticed, dad’s health is walking a fine line. Do you know what would happen if he were to die?” Rachel says leaning into Luke.
“You’d inherit his wealth.”
Luke’s voice lacks the enthusiasm Rachel was hoping for and there’s sorrow in his eyes as he looks out into the sunset, “We’re no murderers.” He says sternly.
“We could blame it on his poor diet. I mean come on; the man’s been digging himself into an early grave the way he eats!” She persists.
“You’re stupid if you think it’s that easy. A crime like that takes intellect, and you’ve been so spoiled your entire life, you’ve never needed any.”
Luke’s furious rebuttal is not without reason, as his potent words chop her down like a tree in the middle of the forest, “I know, you’re right.”
Luke buries his head in his hands and rubs his eyes of sleep deprivation, “There’s only one thing left to do. As soon as it’s possible, you abort that child.”
Rachel lowers her head in an effort to hide her tears. She knew Luke’s response was the most sensible idea they’d ever come up with, but even still the thought of it brought her no comfort whatsoever.
Luke stands and wraps his arms around her offering warmth and compassion, “I’m sorry, but that baby cannot be born, not with your father looming over us.”
It’s a slow painful walk back out into the parking lot as the two trudge along seemingly inches at a time. Hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder he escorts her back to her luxury sedan. There are no words exchanged, no quick witty jokes to ease the discomfort, just a hug and a kiss goodbye. With hate for himself and fear in his eyes Luke follows her car until the taillights are no longer visible.
***
Three painstaking weeks pass in sadness and seclusion. In the confines of her room Rachel lies under a sea of sheets. There’s not an inch of her room that doesn’t remind her of Luke and the passionate exchange they’d shared. Since she’d broken him the news his support had strengthened tenfold through conversations and messages filled with hope, “Today’s the day. I don’t want to do this.” She texts out.
Minutes feel like hours as she grips her phone anxiously awaiting a reply. She gets out of bed and stands against a mirror gazing at her protruding belly. Loosely fitted shirts had become the apparel, a disguise to hide a nasty truth.
Her phone vibrates to life and blaring white floods the screen as an incoming text message pops up, “We have to. Is your father away on business again?” Luke asks.
“Yes.” Rachel responds.
“I’ll meet you at the clinic. You’ll be in no condition to drive, so I’ll have to drive you around.” Luke says.
Rachel steps out of her room in hot pink yoga pants and a loosely fitted t shirt. She’s about to help herself to a cereal bar when she’s reminded of the doctor’s orders not to eat six hours prior to the procedure. Gripping her grumbling belly she puts on a coat and heads out the door.
She’d always revved the engine in her sedan testing its limits on the highway, turning a blind eye to speed signs, but not today. Staying off the fast lane she adheres to the rules of the road keeping a steady pace along a white haired grandmother in an old jalopy, “What the fuck Rachel?” She scoffs to herself.
As the miles goes by, the magnitude of what’s about to occur strengthens its resolve. Trying her best not to think about it Rachel turns on the radio and blasts energetic pop music for the rest of the trip.
***
Faded brown bricks make up the face of what would otherwise be just another old building off a plaza of various clinics. There are no brazen banners or vivid logos, just a subtle simple sign, “West Side Clinic” plastered against the side of the structure. Aside from a couple of cars it’s pretty much empty making Luke’s white pickup easy to spot, “He must be inside.” She says noticing the empty vehicle.
A stale cold runs past her body as she opens the door to a waiting room full of ugly green chairs. Luke is seated in one of them swiping through his phone, “Luke.” Rachel calls out tenderly.
He looks up, smiles and stands to envelop her body into his big strong arms. His stubble tickles her forehead as she nestles her tear stricken face into his chest, “It’s okay. It’s okay.” He says as the salty discharge seems through his black shirt.
“Tell me I’m doing the right thing.” She says looking up at him.
“It’s for the best. We made a mistake. This is our chance to erase it.”
Rachel sobs a bit more before composing herself and signing in. There’s an air of embarrassment as the receptionist stares up at her with remorse enough so that she contemplates making a dash for the door. But just as she turns to face the exit she’s reminded of her father and his stern promise to her. And before she can contemplate any longer, a nurse in light blue scrubs peeks through a doorway and shouts her name, “RACHEL!” She bellows scanning the room.
“Just a minute nurse.” Rushing over to Luke she hands him her keys and phone, “Well this is it.” She says.
“Be strong Rach.” Luke says giving her a hug.
Her legs begin to tremble as she makes her grand exit from the waiting room leaving behind more than just Luke, but a foreseeable future as well.
“That your boyfriend out there?” The nurse asks, taking Rachel’s height and weight.
“My cousin.” Rachel replies softly.
“And your boyfriend? He couldn’t make it?” The nurse continues.
“It’s complicated.” Rachel says flashing a smile.
“I see, well your cousin’s a good man for taking the time to bring you out.”
“Yes he is.” Rachel says.
There’s nothing extravagant about the room she’s escorted to. Dull brown walls adorned with random pictures don’t make for much of a view. The table, aside from two leg supports looks just like the one she remembers seeing as an adolescent, down to the thin white tissue paper.
“If you could please change into this…” The nurse says handing her a short pink gown.
“Not exactly Louis Vuitton is it?” Rachel smirks inspecting the garment.
The nurse lets out a quick chuckle, “The doctor will be with you shortly.” She says excusing herself.
The cold floor feels like tiny pin pricks on her delicate soles as she removes her shoes, peels away the rest of her ensemble and slips into the gown. Just as she finishes forming her clothes into a neat pile the door opens. A tall slender man with shades of grey about his hair walks in carrying a clipboard. To his contrast a much shorter portly woman stands at his side holding a bottle of what looked like white cream.
“Hello Miss Stockton.” He smiles extending his hand. “I’m doctor Barnett, I’ll be conducting your procedure today. This is our anesthesiologist Dr. Kempler.”
Rachel’s heart which was already throbbing began to pump even faster at the thought of being anesthetized, “I’ve never been put to sleep before.” Rachel confesses.
“Oh you have nothing to worry about. You’re in good hands here.” He says patting is assistant on the back, “I guarantee you won’t feel a thing. Now, there are just a couple of questions I need to get out of the way before we can begin is that alright?”
Rachel takes a seat and runs her fingers along the cold steel of the leg supports, “Yes.” She says staring blankly at her feet.
***
“Excuse me, but can we change the channel over here?” Luke asks pointing to a flat screen.
The receptionist, a pale complected freckle face hands Luke the remote, her cherry red nails glistening under the lights of the office.
Luke rifles through the channels until he comes upon a sitcom rerun, “At least it’s not CNN. “ He thinks to himself.
Just as the show’s starting to make sense a loud blaring ring comes from Rachel’s phone. He stares down at the screen to an unrecognized number accompanying the incoming call. But after a couple of rings Luke silences the phone sending the call strait to voicemail. Not two minutes removed her phone goes off again alerting Luke of an incoming message and in his curiousness he plays the recording.
“Miss Stockton, this is William Blane. I work alongside your father. Unfortunately there’s been an accident. It’s your father’s heart. He’s… he’s gone Miss Stockton. His body’s being taken to Harris Methodist on Pennsylvania. Call me back as soon as you get this.”
No sooner is the message over that Luke is on his feet rushing towards reception, “Excuse me Miss, but I need to get back there!” He says in a panic.
Taken by his exuberance the receptionist fumbles for words, “Who? What?” She babbles.
“The patient’s name is Rachel Stockton. She’s in there about to abort a baby. Please open the door!”
“Let me see.” The receptionist says keeping a less than enthused tone of voice, “I’ll be right back.” She says stretching to her feet.
“Please hurry.” Luke says with restrained lividness.
Receptionist Brenda Strong breaks into a quick stride as she makes her way down a corridor of rooms, “Dr. Barnett!” She cries out knocking feverishly against the door to room #12.
The door opens just enough to see half of his face, “Yes Miss Strong?”
“Have you started on Rachel Stockton yet, because there’s a man out in the waiting room who’d like to have a word with you about her.”
Dr. Barnett nods his head, “She’s just been put under, but I can spare a minute.”
As Rachel remains sedated and spellbound to the incantations of Propofol Luke explains their situation with every bit of poignancy he has. And it’s through this pain and sorrow that Dr. Barnett finds a shred of sympathy to override his orders.
“Take me to her.” Luke says demandingly.
Dr. Barnett is happy to oblige, “She’s still unconscious, but the medication should wear off in about fifteen minutes.”
Luke sits on a stool in the corner of the room waiting anxiously for his cousin to stir. Time couldn’t go any slower as he watches the seconds tic away on a big round clock towards the back of the room.
“Miss Stockton?” Dr. Kempler whispers softly.
Rachel’s eyes begin to flutter out of the darkness as the surroundings she’d momentarily abandoned came to life again.
“Miss Stockton, there’s someone here who’d really like to see you.” The doctor continues.
“Luke…” Rachel’s voice is strained and groggy as she slowly fixates on her cousin.
“I’ll leave you two alone.” The doctor says making a swift exit.
Luke rushes to her side and grips her tender hand, “Hey sleepy head.”
“Is it over?” Rachel asks sadly.
“I have some news…” Luke says stroking the back of her hand.
“Oh?” She says struggling to sit upright.
“Rachel, you’re father’s passed. Heart failure, just like you predicted.” He says with a smile.
Rachel lowers her head, “Great. Now I can use his death to secretly grieve my own loss.”
“Well, there’s more…” Luke says enthusiastically, “As soon as I found out, I cancelled your abortion. Rachel you’re still…we’re still pregnant.”
A smirk crawls on her face the likes of which he hadn’t seen since their night at the mansion, “Oh my God Luke… that means…”
“You’re going to be a mother.” Luke says kissing her on the lips.
“And you’re going to be a father. We’re going to be a family.” She says leaning in to kiss him.
“I’ll get on the phone and have his company prep the funeral arrangements.” Luke says whipping out her phone.
“Yes. The sooner he’s in the hole, the sooner we can move on with our lives!” Rachel’s triumphant vocals cry out.
***
Rain pours down on a small mass of people that have gathered to remember Peter Stockton the man, the boss and the father. And it’s in this storm that no one can see past Rachel’s fabricated grief. Droplets of water are mistaken for tears, thunderous claps for agonizing screams. And not even the slickest detective with an eye for detail would have given it a second thought, watching her grip her cousin’s hand, interlocking her fingers in the spaces between his.
And anyone else who's yet to comment. I just love to write.
