Chapter One: Fatal Dose

Ava

“I’m going to the restroom and splash some water on my face. It’s hot in here,” I lie. “I’ll be back in a few minutes.” I need to get away. I can’t talk to him right now. I pick up my purse and head to the nearest restroom.

Closing the door tightly behind me, I lean against it. After several deep breaths, I look in the mirror. I look like a mess. Get it together, Ava. Reaching into my purse for my compact, I pull out a sack. It’s the pregnancy test I bought yesterday. I sit on the toilet before I fall down. My time with Xander runs through my mind. The things we said, the places we went, and the few times we made love. My heart hurts that he isn’t here. Can I be pregnant? I have been pretty nauseous lately. Well, there’s only one way to find out. I read the directions and decide there’s no better time than the present. I pee on the stick and wait… and wait… and wait. When I hear Chase tell Skylar in the other room to check on me, I decide I don’t have time to wait for the result. Shoving the box, the pregnancy test strip, and all evidence into my purse, I join my family and friends. 

I head to the table displaying the Chinese food, careful not to look at Chase. The near wet dream is still fresh in my mind.

“Feeling better, Ava?” Nichole asks.

I smile. “I am. Thank you.” 

During dinner, we talk about a grand opening date for the bakery and discuss the desserts and other sweets Nichole plans on selling at her bakery. I chance a look at Chase and see him smile as Nichole talks with enthusiasm. I admire his boyish good looks. She says she’d like to be open for business by spring. We also talk about a design for her bakery sign. It’s nice to take my mind off of Connor, Lorraine, and her son.

When we get home, Dad says that he and Chase want to speak to me in private. Bracing myself for the conversation, I say, “Can we talk now? I don’t really want to wait until tomorrow.”

We walk into the tearoom for privacy. 

“Chase and I think that we should approach Lorraine with a court order for a DNA test for her and her son.” 

Just the thought of this conversation turns my stomach. “According to her, she already has the DNA test results.” 

“We don’t believe her.” 

“Why? Her child looks just like Connor.” 

Dad says, “Sit down, Ava. I have something to tell you.” He remains impassive until I’m seated. “Do you remember during the holidays I told you I needed to talk to you?” 

I remember it clearly. “You know something?” 

“I know something, yes.” 

Dad sits down across from me at the four-top table in the tearoom. Chase remains standing with his hands in his jean pockets. I focus my attention to my dad. “Dad, just say it. Whatever it is, it can’t be as bad as I think it is.” He looks at Chase and I’m reminded that my family and friends are keeping secrets from me.

“After the accident and while you were in the coma, I went with Brett to clean out Connor’s office.” Chase now sits down beside me. “I found something that raised suspicion.” 

I have no idea what he found, but it can’t be good. “You found proof of an affair?” 

He takes a deep breath and says, “I did. But it wasn’t with Connor.” 

If it wasn’t with Connor, then with whom? What kind of proof of an affair would be in Connor’s desk if it wasn’t with him? His dad! “Brett?” My heart hurts for Nichole. Will this nightmare ever end for her?

“It was Brett. There was a DNA report for paternity in Connor’s desk drawer. I saw the names on the paper, but Brett shoved it in the box before I could read anything else. I didn’t see the results, just the names.”

I think for a minute. That would explain why the baby looked like Connor. “Are you sure it had Brett’s name on it?”

“I’m sure. But there’s more.” I brace myself. What more can he add to this? “I met with Lorraine for dinner just before you moved here from Lake City.” 

“Why? Did you think that Connor could have fathered her child?” 

“No, but I had to make sure he didn’t. I didn’t trust her, and I had to make sure that there weren’t any surprises. My fear was that she would approach you and say something that would trigger your memory. I didn’t want your memory to return under those circumstances.” 

“And she confirmed the baby belonged to Brett?” 

“She said he was the father. That’s what has me puzzled about why she’s approaching you.” 

“She didn’t actually show you proof when you two had dinner?” 

“No, she didn’t. Just like she didn’t show you proof the other night.” 

I think for a moment as I wrap my head around all of this. “If Brett was the father of her son, why would the baby’s name be Connor, and why is she saying that Connor is his father?” 

Chase says, “That would remain a mystery.” 

“I think we should move forward and try to get our own answers. Of course, it’s not a good idea to say anything to Nichole about this.” 

“Agreed,” Chase and I say in unison. I look at Chase and I have to wonder if he’s also hiding something from me.

Later that night, I remember about the pregnancy test stashed away in my purse. With shaky hands I remove the box and the pregnancy test trip. I look at the test strip and I have no idea what it means. I search frantically inside my purse for the instruction sheet. With relief, I lean against the bathroom wall. One line. One glorious red line. Not pregnant. Thankfully, I can put this chapter of my life behind me.

That night, I dream of cheaters and liars. I dream of single moms and cute little babies. I dream of men undeserving of the role of fatherhood. I dream of Connor and Brett Emerson.

In the morning, I wake up with new energy. After the pregnancy scare yesterday, I realize how differently my life could have been in just a single year. I wake up more appreciative of the life I have now. No worries of being a single mom, no worries of unnecessary struggles, and no worries of an unplanned pregnancy.

When I get up, Drew and Skylar are at Tybee Island. Mom is standing at the sink, washing breakfast dishes.

“Good morning,” I say as I make my way over to the coffee maker. 

“Good morning. You look rested, did you sleep well?” 

“I did. Where did Chase and Dad go?” 

“They’re in the tearoom.” She picks up a coffee mug and dries it.

I sit down at the bar and ask Mom, “Do you want to do some sightseeing later?” 

“I would love to, but your father thinks it’s best that we return home today.” 

“I see.” Wrapping my hands around my hot coffee, I ask, “Is Chase going home, too?” 

“I am. I need to get back to work.” I look behind me and see Dad and Chase walking into the room.

Feeling disappointed, I try to hide my emotions. “I wondered how you managed to get so many vacation days,” I tease. 

He smiles when he sees the humor in my eyes. “The benefit of not having a life is an accrual of vacation time.” 

I’m sad to think that Chase doesn’t have a life. He’s good looking, successful, and smart. What more does a man need?

“Well, hopefully that’ll change for you soon.” Dad walks over and kisses Mom as she dries the dishes. 

Change for him soon? Why? What’s recently happened in his life that will change.” Why, do you have a date?” 

“Not yet,” Dad teases. “But if Skylar has her way, he’ll be dating frequently in the very near future.” 

“Skylar? What does she have to do with anything about this?” I look at Chase, hoping he’ll answer and not Dad.

Mom says, “Skylar started a profile of him on one of those dating websites.” 

I laugh. I always thought those dating sites were for desperate people. Of course, I don’t say that.

“Don’t laugh,” Chase says. “She started a profile of you, too.” 

“No.” My laugh is now gone. I barely have a smile. “Those dating sites are for people looking to date. Not for people who don’t want to date.” I walk away to get my laptop.

Chase says as he takes a seat on the couch, “It’s password protected. She fixed it so neither of us can make changes or delete the account.” 

“Great.” I sit on the couch and sip my coffee. “I’ll deal with Skylar when she returns.” 

“Let me know how that works out for you.” 

Just before I shower, I invite Mom, Dad, and Chase to stay until after dinner. I know they need to return home, but some days, I just want to be surrounded by my family and friends. Drew and Skylar come home while Mom and I are preparing dinner.

“Do I have time to see if Ava and Chase got any matches on their dating pages?” 

“I’d like to talk to you about that.” I wipe my hands off and walk towards her as she walks into the bedroom to get her laptop. 

“You don’t need to thank me. I was more than happy to do it for you, and for you, too, Chase,” she yells over her shoulder. 

“I wasn’t going to thank you.”

Skylar brings her laptop out and sets it up on the table. “You sound upset,” she says without looking at me.

“I don’t want to have a profile on those…” I begin to say before she interrupts me.

“Oh, look. Your profile got some views, and there’s even a couple of matches.” 

Wait? What? “Let me see that.” I lean in and look at the computer screen.

“Sixteen views, three winks, and two matches.” Skylar laughs. “That was fast.” 

She sits back so I can scan through the profile. At least she had the decency to use a good picture of me. It also says I’m a nurse. “I’m glad you tried to conceal some of my identity.” 

“I’m not a total idiot.” She logs out of my account and logs into Chase’s account. Let’s see what activity Chase has.” I look over at him and he’s watching television. I don’t think he knows what we’re talking about. “Holy hell, Chase. Thirty-one views, twelve winks, and six matches.” She laughs and he looks up. “They think you’re a hottie.”

Chase looks over at Drew, who’s laughing. “Tell me you didn’t have anything to do with this.” 

“It was all her.” 

Chase has a great profile picture. “I’m not feeding into this nonsense, Skylar. Nice try.” Skylar closes up her laptop and Chase continues, “I don’t date because I don’t want to, not because I can’t get a date.” 

“That’s what they all say.” 

We have dinner before Mom, Dad, and Chase leave to return home to Lake City. I was glad when we got some last-minute reservations for the inn. I do like some down time, but mostly I like to stay busy, and I especially like knowing we have money coming in. It would also be nice to get into a normal routine. Steady guests mean a steady income. It’s a win-win.

Just before bed, Skylar says, “You have several more views and a couple more winks on your profile page. Do you want to see them?” 

I take a deep breath before answering. “I’d rather you take it down. I don’t have the time or the energy to date.” I feel exhausted. “I’m heading to bed. Good night, Drew and Skylar.” 

“I’ll look through these for you and see if there’s anyone worth replying to.” 

I don’t answer. I just walk away.

Skylar

“Good night, Ava. Sleep well.” Drew looks at me when Ava closes her bedroom door. “I’m not so sure this a good idea,” he says.

“Drew, I know Ava better than she knows herself. And this is a great idea.” 

“She doesn’t seem too impressed with it.” 

“That’s because she doesn’t know my plan.” 

Over the next few weeks, things at the inn start to pick up. The rooms are filling up, guests are excited to be on vacation. The days are getting warmer, and Lou Ann and Steve are back from vacation and working at their inn.

The dating website for Ava is quite active, but there aren’t any suitable matches for her and no one interesting is winking at her. I talk excitedly, although I’m pretty disappointed. I want to get her involved with someone. I want to get her back to how she was with Xander.

“I wish you would give up on that,” she says, reading. 

“Are you talking to me?” 

She looks up over the book. “It’s just me and you in the room. Who else would I be talking to?” 

“I will on one condition.” 

“What’s that?” 

“One date. Let me find you someone and you go on one date with him.” 

She folds the book and sets it down on her lap. “Skylar?” 

“Just one date and then I’ll delete your account and we’ll never talk about it again.” 

“One date?” 

“And I’ll never mention it again.” 

“Swear?” 

“Girl Scouts honor.” 

She thinks for a brief minute. “One lunch date, and that’s it.” 

I smile. “Okay. I’ll see who they match you up with over the next few days.” 

Later that night Ava gets a suitable match on her profile. Finally. It took long enough and he seems like a great match. I set up a date for Saturday, at noon, down by River Walk. Outdoor dining on a Saturday afternoon seems like a safe date to me. I decide to not tell her right away. I don’t want her to freak out. I’ll tell her on Friday; that’ll give her enough time. 

Ava doesn’t hear anything about Lorraine and I have no idea if that’s good news or not. She seems sad, and I blame it on Lorraine. Of course, it could also be because of Xander. Drew left to take his mom home, and I’m glad to have a few days alone. I need some time alone with Ava to get her on board with this online dating.

On Friday night, I ask Ava, “What do you want to wear tomorrow?” 

“Why, are we going someplace?” 

Opening her closet door, I say, “Tomorrow’s your date with the mystery man from the internet.” 

“Wait? What? Tomorrow? I didn’t know anything about this.” 

“I just told you.” Pulling out a white sweater and a pair of skinny jeans, I say, “I think you should wear this.” 

Ava takes the sweater and jeans from me and returns them to the clothes rack in the closet. “I’m not going to meet some guy I’ve never met before for some date.” 

“You already agreed to it.” 

“I did no such thing. If I’m just finding out about this, how could I have agreed to it?” 

She looks pissed and it makes me laugh. “When I said to go on one date and then I’ll remove your profile off their web page. You do remember that, right?” Of course she does. I watch as she sits on her bed. 

“How long have you known about this?” 

“Since yesterday.” I remove the jeans and the sweater from the clothes rack again and hang them up on the back of the door. “Wear this, it’ll be perfect.” 

“I could kill you,” she says.

“I know. I can live with that. He’ll be meeting you at River Walk tomorrow at 1:00 pm.”

She falls back on her bed and covers her face with a pillow.

I laugh. “Look pretty. I think this guy might be the one,” I say, walking out of the room. I close the door and hear the pillow hitting the door. “You missed,” I yell over my shoulder. 

Ava

Lying on the bed, I stare at the white sweater and jeans hanging on the bedroom door. Xander hasn’t been gone for two months yet. I think it’s too soon to date. Is it too soon to move on without him? I have no idea. I don’t want to date. I know that people like Connor are out there, but I also know that people like Chase and Xander are out there, too. I’m more fearful I’ll end up with someone like Connor again. Obviously, I’m a bad judge of character. I’d rather be alone than be with the likes of Connor. I’m not sure I’d survive another relationship like that one. Is there something wrong with being alone? It doesn’t necessarily make a person lonely.

I shower and do my hair and lightly apply my makeup. I don’t wear the sweater that Skylar recommended. I decide on a Florida Gators football hoodie instead. Maybe if he’s a football fan, this will be a huge turnoff for him. Who in Georgia likes the Florida Gators? No one; it’s their rival. Perfect, I think to myself.

When I walk out of my bedroom, I totally ignore Skylar. I walk and get a Fresca out of the refrigerator.

“You look nice. I see you took my advice on your attire.” 

“Thanks. I’m just trying to make a good first impression.”

“I can see that.”

“Okay, so where am I meeting this guy?” 

“I’ll take you,” Skylar says as she carefully screws on the lid to her red nail polish. “I wouldn’t want you to get lost and not show up.” 

She knows me so well. “Let’s go, I wouldn’t want to be late.” 

We mostly carry on a one-way conversation as she drives. Skylar talks and I try hard to ignore her.

“I’m not prepared for this. What will we talk about?” I ask.

“Yourself.” She quickly looks over at me. “Tell him all the wonderful things about yourself that people love.” 

“Like what?” 

“That you’re an animal lover, you’re a nurse, and you’re very nurturing. That you love the outdoors.” 

“Maybe I’ll tell him I love kids and I want a dozen,” I tease. 

“Good, he’ll like that. He already has four kids.” She turns down by the water and keeps a straight face. I have no idea if she’s serious or not. Skylar parks and says, “He’ll be meeting you in there, if he’s not already waiting for you.”

I look in the direction of the quaint restaurant. “How will I know who he is?” 

“The reservation’s under the name Smith.” 

“Smith?” 

“Don’t blame me. It was his idea.” She smiles and I’m not amused. “Call me when you’re done.” 

“I’m done now.” 

“You have to stay for at least an hour.” 

“An hour? What if he’s a jerk?” 

“He’s a nice guy. He has four kids. I’m sure he’s amazing.” 

I slowly open the car door. “One hour and you better be here waiting for me.” I look around the parking lot for a single man or a man with four children. “Just be here. Don’t make me call you.”

She looks at the clock before looking at me. “One hour, I’ll be here for sure. Now go before you keep him waiting.” 

“I hate you,” I say, closing the car door.

As Skylar pulls off, she rolls down the car window and says, “Don’t be like that. You’ll thank me later.”

My first instinct, I ignore. I walk into the small café and give the name Smith for the reservation name.

“He’s upstairs waiting for you. Follow me, please.” 

I follow her upstairs to a table that overlooks the lake. He’s looking out the window, so I can’t see his face. My hands get sweaty and I swallow. I hate being put on the spot like this. This is embarrassing and I debate turning around and bolting for the door. A single pink rose is on the table in front of him. He turns around as we approach the table.

“This can’t be right. I think I have the wrong table.”

The hostess stops and says to me, “The table for Smith, right?” 

“Yes, that’s right.” 

“This is Mr. Smith.” 

Chase stands up and smiles.

“Thank you,” I say as she walks away. I look at Chase and relief washes over me. “Mr. Smith?” I look at him and he’s also wearing a Florida Gators sweatshirt that is almost identical to mine.

“Dressing to impress?” he asks. He walks around and pulls out my chair for me. 

“Thank you,” I say as I take my seat across from his. “I am. I was hoping to meet a Georgia sports enthusiast.” 

He sits across from me. “Thought it would be a turnoff and end the date sooner?” 

“Exactly. Was that your plan as well?” 

“It was. I did bring a rose to soften the blow. I guess this would be for you.” 

I take the rose from his hand and smell it. “Thank you.” 

“Skylar’s something else, isn’t she?”

“She is.” 

“Should I take you home or would you like to stay and have lunch?” 

I look around the restaurant; the décor is pleasing. I look outside and we have a beautiful view of the water. “I think since we’re already here, we should order. Unless you have something better to do.” 

He looks at me. “Something better to do? No, Ava. I have no other plans for the rest of the weekend.” The waitress comes over to take our drink order. “Is it too early to drink?” 

“Not for me, it’s not.”

Chase orders a bottle of Moscato, and we order our lunch before the server leaves.

“So you drove all this way for a blind date?” 

“I told Skylar that since Lake City was such a small area,” Chase says, “I didn’t want to have a dating page listed in that city.” 

“So she set you up with one in Savannah. How clever of her playing matchmaker.” 

“I’m not disappointed. If I’d known she had such great taste, I would have let her fix me up sooner.”

And just like that, I get goose bumps. We eat and laugh all through the meal. I’m having a wonderful time with Chase. It seems different. It doesn’t feel like the brotherly relationship we have when we’re at the inn. He’s funny and attentive. During lunch, he gets a text that he ignores. 

“Are you going to check that?” 

“No, it’s a rescue text.” 

A rescue text? “Like in case your date didn’t work out, you had an out?” He’s a genius. I put that to memory to do from now on. 

“Exactly. Since Skylar was involved, I didn’t know what to expect.” After lunch he says, “I thought we could do some shopping and then have dessert at Carla Jo Dean’s restaurant.” When I don’t say anything, he says, “Unless you have other plans.” 

“No, I don’t. That sounds amazing.” 

“Shall we?” he asks, holding his hand out for mine.

“We shall.”

We walk around River Walk and do some window-shopping before walking to the city market. He finally tells me that Lorraine quit her job this week at his law firm without notice.

“Do you know where she’s working?” 

“No idea. She was a no-show on Monday and Tuesday, and when they finally reached her by phone on Wednesday, she said she quit.” 

“That’s odd. She was with your company for a long time, wasn’t she?” 

“She’s been there for about four years.” I wonder if I should expect her to show up on my doorstep any moment now. I felt better thinking she was at work, but now I have no idea where she is. When I see a silk scarf in the window, Chase and I walk into that shop.

“Do you see something you like?” 

“This scarf. I wonder if you have it in black and white?” 

“Let me check.”

The sales clerk walks in the back and then comes out with a black and white silk scarf that’s decorated with music notes. Chase buys it and hands me the small shopping bag. “Thank you.” 

“It’s my pleasure. Are you ready for some dessert and coffee?” 

“I am.” 

When we walk into the restaurant, the first thing I see is all of Jami Alexander’s books set up in a display cabinet. A NOT FOR SALE sign is set up in front of the books on display. It makes my heart hurt just thinking about him.

“Come on, Ava, our table’s ready.” 

Chase and I share an order of the dessert minis and we each have a coffee. “You still miss him?” Chase asks.

“I do. I miss having someone at the inn who wasn’t just a guest. Sadly, it gets lonely there at times.” I think for a minute before continuing. “It’s more than that. He died. He’s gone forever. I hate thinking about that, and I hate what it must be doing to his family.” 

“Is it hard having Drew there with Skylar?” 

“Do you mean because he reminds me of Xander?” 

“No, because she has someone there and you don’t.” 

“I’m happy for Skylar. She deserves a good man and he’s good for her. She’s good for him, too, from what I can see. I guess maybe I want that, too. I want someone to share my life with.” I laugh and say, “I sound pathetic, don’t I?” 

“Pathetic? No, I wouldn’t say that.” 

“You wouldn’t?” 

“No, not at all. I can kind of relate to that. Being home alone on most days is great, but sometimes, it’d be nice walking into the house and having someone greet me.” 

The thought of Chase dating someone doesn’t agree with me. Am I jealous? “I think we’re both pathetic.” I’m teasing him because I can’t stand the thought of Chase dating.

“Pathetic?” He nearly coughs his coffee all over the white linen tablecloth. “I said I was lonely once in a while, not pathetic.” 

“Same difference.” I smile and he also smiles.

“Since we’re both pathetic, do you want to see a movie or do anything else before I take you home?” 

“I haven’t seen a movie in a theater in a long time.” I reach for my cell phone and say, “I should call Skylar….” I stop mid-sentence. “On second thought, I’ll let her wonder how it’s going.”

He pulls out his wallet and pays the check. “That’s a good idea. She needs to wonder how things are going.” He stands and pulls my chair out for me. “I was planning on ditching my date right after lunch and driving back home to Lake City. This turned out much better than I anticipated.” 

“Yes, it has.” 

Chase

Ava and I watch an early movie. The day turned out much better than I had imagined. I put it to memory to thank Skylar later. We have nachos and popcorn during the show. I don’t hold her hand like I want to, but we do lean in close to each other so we can talk through some of the scenes.

When we get back to the inn, Skylar and Drew are there watching television.

“Did you have a good time on your blind date?” Skylar asks as she shuts off the television. 

“Best date ever,” Ava says, sitting down on the loveseat.

I think my ego just swelled a little. “It was nice,” I say, sitting beside her.

“The inn sold out of rooms for this evening,” Skylar says. “We were busy today.” 

“That’s great news,” Ava says.

“Sorry, Chase. I didn’t think to reserve you a room.” 

I look at Skylar trying to determine if this is part of her grand scheme. She has such a good game face, that it’s hard to tell. “It’s okay. I don’t mind sleeping on the couch.” 

“Do you want to finish our chess game?” Ava looks over at me.

“Yeah, sure.” I stand with her and we walk into her bedroom. “I’ll see you guys in the morning.” 

“Good night,” Skylar and Drew say in unison as she turns the television back on.

Ava slips into a tee shirt and a pair of yoga pants before joining me at the chess table. “Planning your next move?” she asks.

Trying not to stare at her beauty too long, I look back at the chessboard. “Trying to remember whose turn it is to go.” 

She picks up a marker from in front of the board on my side. “It’s your turn.”

We don’t play for long before she starts to yawn. I know she’ll need to get up early for breakfast. “We’ll continue this game tomorrow.” 

“I’m sorry, I didn’t get much sleep last night.” 

“Dreading the blind date?” I stand from the chair and walk towards the bed. 

“Yeah. Sure would have saved me some anxiety if Skylar would have been forthcoming.”

I watch as Ava walks over and turns on her battery-operated candle. I’m glad she still uses the waterfall and chirping bird C.D. They must help to keep her nightmares at bay.

“Is that working for you?”

“Oddly, it is. It doesn’t make me dream of tropical islands, but I don’t dream of Connor either.” 

“Good. It’s doing just what we wanted it to do.” 

She smiles and turns on the waterfall. “Can I ask you something?” 

I walk back into her room. “I hope you know you can ask me anything.” 

“Why are you still single? I don’t get it.” This is not what I thought she was going to say. “You’re such a great guy, why hasn’t someone snatched you by now?” 

“Ava, I’m not all that great.”

Before I can continue she says, “You are. You’re one of the sweetest men I know. I don’t understand.”

If only she knew that she’s my missing link. She’s the reason I’m single. She’s the reason why no other girl will ever measure up to her standards. I wanted to tell her. I wanted her to know that she’s the only one for me. One day I’m going to tell her. As soon as her memory returns, I’ll come clean about my feelings. If she ever gets her memory back.

“The only thing I can think of is some girl must have done a number on you.” 

I want to laugh. “You want to hear the truth as to why I’m still single?” 

She sits on the bed and pats it for me to join her. “Yes, please.” 

I take a cautious seat next to her. “I was in love once,” I say honestly. She doesn’t say anything, but she looks shocked. “When I first saw her, I knew she was the only girl for me. Sadly, she fell in love with someone else.” 

“What?” 

“It’s true. She got married and I never told her how I felt. I admired her from afar and hoped and prayed the guy she was with would treat her the way she deserved.” 

“She didn’t know the way you felt about her?” 

“If she did, she never let on. We were friends and then she met her white knight in shining armor.” 

“And you just let her go?”

I watch the confusion on her face.

“What choice did I have?” 

She looks almost sad with my decision. “Um, stand up and claim your girl.” 

My girl? I wish she was my girl. “She was never mine to claim, especially not after she met her knight in shining armor — who wasn’t me.” Before this conversation gets any deeper, I say, “I need to let you get some sleep.” I stand from the bed and lean in and kiss her on her cheek.

“Good night, Ava.” 

“I had a great time today. Thank you.” 

I smile. “I did, too. I was thinking if you didn’t have anything planned for next weekend, maybe we could do it again?” 

“I know I’m not the girl of your dreams, but I would love to go out with you again.” 

If only she knew the truth. “Good. Sweet dreams and I’ll see you in the morning.” 

In the morning, I’m not sure what to do other than make coffee for the guests. So, I make coffee. I wait for Ava and Skylar to appear from their separate bedrooms to start breakfast. They both come out showered and dressed for the day.

“You’re hired,” Skylar says, heading right for the coffee pot.

“I’m showering and I’m not looking for a job, but thank you.” 

Ava

As soon as Chase leaves the room, I ask Skylar where Drew is. 

“He’s in the shower. Why?” 

“Did you know Chase was in love at one time?” 

“He’s almost 30. I would hope so.” 

“No. I mean did you know that he was in love with someone and yet he never told her.” I whisper so no one but Skylar will hear me. “He told me last night that he admired her from afar.” 

“Oh, her. Yeah, I knew about that.” 

“I know I have amnesia, but did I know about it?” 

“No, I don’t think so. Chase was and is very secretive about his feelings.” 

“That makes me sad. For him to take a step back and watch the girl he loves move on without him.” 

“It takes a special kind of guy to do that.” Skylar puts the sausage in the oven. “He really loved her.” 

I have to know. “What happened to her?” 

“She moved away. I think he still sees her occasionally.” 

“He’s such an amazing catch. Anyone would be lucky to have him.” 

During breakfast, Chase stays in the living quarters; he doesn’t join us for breakfast. Drew sits near Skylar and they talk openly to the guests about the area. Is it odd that I want Chase to be here with me? I excuse myself from the table and walk back to the living quarters. Chase is on the phone with his back towards me. Not sure who he’s talking to, I cough so he knows he’s not in the room alone. He turns around and watches me, not saying a word. I rarely see Chase on his cell phone, so this concerns me.

When he disconnects the phone, I’m still in the room.

“I was hoping I didn’t have to leave until later, but it looks like I need to head home now.” 

I’m disappointed, but I try not to show it. “Is everything okay?” He watches me, and I feel like he has something to say to me. “Chase, you can tell me. Whatever it is, I’m strong enough to handle it.” 

His look softens as he walks over towards me. “I know you are. I’m just not sure how much I should share with you.” Looking me in the eyes, he says, “Something happened and I need to get back to Lake City.” 

“I know. You said that already.” 

He gives me a slight smile. “I did, didn’t I?” He pauses before saying, “I made a decision last night that I’m not going to keep anything else from you. If you want to know something, and if I have the answer, I’ll tell you whatever it is you want to know.” 

Did I just hear him right? “Thank you. I appreciate that.” 

“I don’t have all the facts yet, but Lorraine’s in the hospital.” 

I place my hand over my heart. “Is she okay? What about the baby?” 

“I don’t have all the details, but I’d like to get back and see what’s going on.” 

“Yeah, okay. I understand. Will you keep me posted?” When he doesn’t answer me, I say, “I can take it, I promise.” 

“I know. You’re stronger than I give you credit for. As soon as I hear something, I’ll call you.” 

“Thank you.” 

“You should join your guests. I’ll see my way out the back door.” 

I lean up and kiss him goodbye. “Be careful, and I’ll talk to you later.” 

“I will. I’ll call you later.” 

I join Skylar, Drew, and the other guests when I hear Chase’s car drive away. Skylar looks at me and I look away. I’ll fill her in on Lorraine once we’re alone. I wish I knew something. Chase actually told me more than I expected. The fact that he told me anything at all shows me he’s trying. Maybe my plea to my family to be honest with me worked.

After breakfast, I tell Skylar and Drew why Chase left in such a hurry.

“Was it a car accident?” Skylar asks.

“I don’t know. He just said she was in the hospital.” 

“I hope it’s nothing serious, but karma’s a bitch.” 

Skylar can be brutally honest at times. Almost too honest.

“Skylar? Be nice. This could be serious.” 

“I’m sorry, Ava, but it’s true.” 

Once breakfast is cleaned up, Skylar and Drew disappear into their bedroom. I decide to get things ready for the afternoon tea. The tea is busy and it keeps my mind off of Lorraine. I try to focus on my date yesterday with Chase, instead of what happened with Lorraine and possibly her son. The incident with Lorraine rushes to my mind. It makes it hard to focus on anything else.

“Ava, Skylar wants to see you. I’ll sit here and monitor the tea.” 

“Everything’s stocked. I’ll be right back.” 

When I walk into the room, Skylar has her laptop sitting on her lap.

“What’s up?” 

“Here, look.” Skylar turns the computer around for me to see. The article says that a local Lake City woman was rushed to Shands Hospital after a drug overdose. She was pronounced dead soon after she arrived. 

“Oh, my God. Do you think it’s Lorraine?” 

“It could be. Has Chase called you with an update?”

“No, I haven’t heard from him. If that is her, what will happen to her son?” 

“I can only assume he’ll go to the next of kin, which normally would be the baby’s father.” 

I sit on the edge of the bed. I know nothing about Lorraine or her family. Why do I even care what will happen?

“If it’s Connor’s child…” 

“Then the next of kin will be her parents.” 

“Or if it’s Brett’s child, he would get custody of him.” 

“Assuming he wants him,” Skylar adds. 

Would Brett want to raise a young son? Would Brett raise him like he did Connor? Would he grow up to be just like those two? Certainly, the madness would have to stop somewhere. I hope.

“I can’t imagine he would want to start all over with raising a child on his own.” 

“I wouldn’t think so, but stranger things have been known to happen.” She closes her laptop and says, “I’ll finish up the tea, and maybe you can get ahold of Chase.” 

“Thanks, I’ll do that.” When she leaves, I debate on calling him. He said he would call me when he heard something. I have to believe that he will. I run the sweeper and dust to keep busy. I also wash my bedding and scrub the bathroom.

Just before 6:00 pm the phone rings; it’s Chase.

“Hey,” I say.

“Hey, sorry I didn’t call sooner, but a lot’s been going on.” 

“I can imagine.” 

“You saw what happened on the Internet?” 

“I did. I can’t believe it.” 

“What all did it say?” 

“There was a fatal drug overdose in Lake City, but they didn’t release any names. Is that true? Was it Lorraine?” 

“It was, and she left a suicide note.” 

Wait. What? Suicide? I thought it was an accidental drug overdose. “What? You mean she did it on purpose?” 

Chase releases a deep breath. “It appears so. But there’s more.” 

Her baby. Please don’t let anything happen to him. “What is it?” Maybe he knows who the father is? “Did she mention the father in the suicide note?” 

“Ava, it’s a lot to hear. Are you sure you’re ready for this?” 

Skylar and Drew walk in. When they see me on the phone, they sit on the couch quietly.

“I am. I need to hear it.” 

“Are you sitting down?” he finally says.

I sit gingerly on the barstool. “I am.” 

“In her suicide note she talked about struggling financially and about the physical and mental abuse she suffered at the hands of Connor and Brett.” 

“Oh, God. He abused her, too? Why would they both abuse her?” 

“I have no idea. Everything is still very confusing.”

“It must have been devastating for her.” 

I’m gonna be sick. Her son? “Is the baby okay?” 

“He’s fine. He’s with child welfare. They’ll search for the next of kin, and hopefully they’ll release him to them.” 

“Do they know who the child’s father is?” 

“No, there’s been no word about that. Are you okay?” 

Am I okay? “I think so. I’m definitely better than some people.” 

“Aren’t we all. You just never know what someone is going through.” I can hear someone talking in the background. “I need to get off here. I’ll call you later.” 

“Thanks for calling. I’ll talk to you later.” 

I hang up and update Skylar and Drew on what Chase just said. No one says anything. I would have expected Skylar to say something, but she remains quiet. A hundred things must be going through her head. She’s usually so vocal and open about her thoughts. For once, I appreciate her keeping her thoughts to herself. I have my own thoughts and suspicions to deal with.

At night, I dream of babies and abuse. I dream of unhappiness and suicides. I dream of monsters named Brett and Connor.

Over the next few days, Skylar and I don’t talk about Lorraine or her son. We don’t talk about anything but the inn and the tearoom. I think she knows everything else is off limits. I said I’m strong enough to know things, but it doesn’t mean I want to talk about them. Just because I don’t talk about them, it doesn’t mean I’m not thinking of them. It’s the only thing I can think about. My mind is consumed with Lorraine and her son. What does this mean for me? Does this change anything for me? If Connor’s the father, it shouldn’t affect me at all. Right? 

Chase

It takes a few days to get the news and the results back about Lorraine and her son. Things don’t look good. I’ve been working closely with our P.I., the chief at the police station, and Marshall. Once we get the autopsy report and the DNA results, Marshall, Claire, and I drive to Savannah. I told Ava I wouldn’t keep things from her anymore and I won’t. But this isn’t the kind of news you can deliver over the phone. 

Marshall calls Ava to meet us at Nichole’s house. This has a lot to do with her, too. I think they can support each other when they hear the news. 

Marshall and Claire walk in first, then I close the door behind me.

“You have me worried. I hope everything’s okay,” Nichole says, taking a seat at the dinner table. 

Once everyone is seated, Marshall says, “You heard about Lorraine’s suicide a few days ago.” 

“Yes, Ava called and told me about it the day it happened. It’s very unfortunate.” 

“Yes, it is. We have some news that you both will be interested in hearing.” 

Ava and Nichole look at each other. Marshall continues. “We know who her son’s father is. Because Ava gave us permission to use Connor’s DNA, and Brett agreed willingly to be tested, we were able to determine the father of Lorraine’s son, Connor.” 

Nichole looks sick. We’ve talked a few times over the last few days. She knows about Brett being the possible father and about Connor also being a possibility for the father.

“Dad, don’t keep us waiting,” Ava says anxiously. “This is hard enough.”

I watch as she and Nichole hold hands.

“You’re right, Ava. It has been long enough.” Marshall lays a folded piece of paper on the dining room table. “Here are the results.” He looks lovingly at his daughter. “With certainty, the results reveal that Connor is the baby’s father.” 

I watch Ava closely. I want to make sure she’s okay. I need to know she can handle this. Tears fill her eyes and spill onto her cheeks. Her lips tremble. Claire stands and rushes to her daughter’s side. She hugs her and tries to console her the best she can. I sit there and try to think of what she can be thinking. When I hear crying, I look in the direction it’s coming from. Nichole is crying uncontrollably. It must have just dawned on her that Lorraine’s son is definitely her grandchild.

“Where is her son?” Nichole asks in a shaky voice. 

“He’s currently in foster care,” Marshall says. “If his next of kin doesn’t claim him, then he’ll eventually be placed for adoption.” 

“Oh, my God, I remember,” Ava says.

“What? You remember what?” Claire asks. 

We all turn to look at Ava. She’s looking straight ahead at the large picture window.

“The accident. The fight leading up to the accident.” She licks her dry lips and brushes away her tears. “In the car, we were fighting over the baby. I knew about Lorraine’s baby. I threatened to leave Connor.” She pauses as if she’s getting a clearer picture. “Oh. My. God. The car accident was intentional. He threatened to kill me just before he wrecked us. He told me he was the father of Lorraine’s child, and he wanted me to raise the baby when it was born. I refused and threatened to leave him. He swerved the car and wrecked us on purpose,” she cries. Claire and Nichole also cry. “He said he would kill me and himself before he’d ever let me leave him. He said he’d rather see me dead than let me divorce him.” She tries to dry the steady flow of tears, but it is useless.

Marshall’s jaw twitches.

“What else do you remember, Ava?” I ask softly.

In a soft voice, she continues, “It was our second wedding anniversary. Lorraine showed up pregnant at the restaurant where we were celebrating. She was distraught and had been crying. I remember she had a bruise on her left cheek. She said she’d been having an affair with Connor since before we were married, and that he was her baby’s father. She said she had sex with Connor the same day we got married.” Ava turns and looks at me. “During our wedding reception I remember Connor came up missing. I searched for him and I couldn’t find him. That’s when I asked you to look for him.” 

“That’s right, you did.” 

“You said you searched everywhere and couldn’t find him.” 

“That’s the truth, Ava. He was nowhere to be found.” 

“I believe you.” She looks out the large window again. “She said that when the baby was born, I would learn the truth about everything.” She wipes away her tears. “I remember that’s when we left the restaurant. Connor was furious. He left Lorraine standing at the table as he dragged me through the crowded restaurant by my hair because I refused to go with him.” 

“Ava, I’m sorry,” Nichole cries. “I had no idea about Lorraine or the baby. I swear I never knew about the affair. I should have protected you from Connor. I knew about his violent rages and what he was capable of. I’m sorry. I should have said something. I should have helped you.” 

Ava looks at her with tears flowing freely down her face and soaking into her shirt. “There’s nothing you could have done, Nichole. There’s nothing no one could have done.”