Chapter 11 – I Finally Found Someone
SPOV
I feel a strong arm over me and a pressure at my back. Smiling, I pull the arm closer. God, how can I ever sleep alone again? The sex is great. Not that I have anything to compare it to, but waking up in the arms of someone you love has got to be the best experience ever.
I move in closer to him and can feel that certain parts of him are more awake than he is right now. I thought yesterday that Eric was the energizer bunny. After last night, I think he just never gets tired. I think back to the way he made me feel and the love he showed me over and over again. Just the thought of what we shared sends tingles right through my body.
I open my eyes to a very bright room. I couldn't believe my eyes when Eric guided me into his loft. You could pick it up and place it anywhere. New York, France, even Milan; it would fit perfectly. It is sharp, now and perfect. I love my farmhouse but this place is just, well WOW.
I knew without him telling me that he designed every square inch of the place. It was just him; strong long lines, dark and light complimenting each other perfectly. Old world style meets new and innovative. I really adore the open concept of his bedroom. But I must admit, the use of the glass, wood, granite and old stone would have been strange, taken separately. But the way he put it together with the stainless appliances and drop lighting, just breathtaking. You would really put that kitchen on TV. I mean, my kitchen is my dream. But my kitchen belongs in a farmhouse in the middle of the country. Eric's belongs in an up and coming city. In the home of one of the most brilliant architects I've ever met. Okay, I've never met another architect, but still.
"You ever going to let us sleep in?" I hear from behind me as he moves just a little closer. Like that's even possible.
"Hey, I wasn't staring at you this morning." I say back.
"No, you're just thinking real hard," he says. "What's got that beautiful mind up so early?"
I turn in his arms and kiss him chastely on the lips. "For your information I think I woke up from the sun streaming into the room." I say and look over his shoulder at the clock. "And it isn't early. It's after ten. We didn't get to practice yesterday and we need to get a head start today before I head back out to Bon Temps."
I can see the thoughts running through his head. "You're going back tonight?" He asks and pulls me closer. "Not sure I'll be able to let you do that. You see, these are the two best nights of sleep I've ever had. Not sure I'll be able to sleep without you in my arms."
"Well," I say and look at him. "You did say that once we took this step, you wouldn't be leaving me alone at night any longer. Do you still mean it?" I ask him.
He is quiet for a moment. When it lingers longer than I am comfortable with, I'm about to tell him he didn't have to keep that promise. He beats me too it by kissing me again. This time it isn't as chaste. When we separate to breathe he looks back into my eyes. "I was hoping you wanted me to keep my promise," he says and kisses me again.
After a few moments, we come back up for air. "We can practice at the club and then head back to your place. I've got some proposals to go over. I can do that when you write later. How does that sound?" He asks me.
I smile. "That sounds perfect."
I go to get out of bed when I find I can't move. "Where do you think you're going?" He asks me.
"Ummm, up?"
He shakes his head. "Not yet, you're not."
I am pulled on top of him and suddenly, getting out of bed is no longer an option.
***0***
ADA Anabeth's POV
"Frank, I'm telling you," I say to my boss Frank Pierce, District Attorney of New Orleans. "If the father didn't know what his son was doing, he is stupider than I thought."
Frank is still looking out the window. He is just shy of six feet tall, dark brown hair and a dimple in his chin that I could lose time exploring. Okay, so I'm sleeping with my boss. Not the first girl to do it and I damn well know I'm not going to be the last.
"Ana, William Compton comes out of every incident squeaky clean. Did you hear about that land deal that went bust?" He asks.
I nod. I'd heard about it. Several investors went in a land deal just outside the parish. Thomas Moffit was the organizer. William Compton, Sr., and two other hotshot attorneys were in on the deal. The deal was a shell game. But since Thomas' name was on all the papers and the lawyers weren't in on the deal until after it began, Moffit took the fall. William and his cronies were hit with a fine and that was it. Hell, I don't even think the money was ever given back to the investors.
"What does that have to do with this?" I ask him. "Frank, I've known Lafayette Reynolds since law school. He hand delivered the findings to me. This Compton is scum and you and I both know it. Damn that foundation alone is going to get us media coverage. Never mind a Senate candidate has been stealing from his girlfriend and misappropriating funds. Never mind the dozen of infractions in legal documentation on her and the foundations behalf. The guy doesn't deserve to walk my dog, never mind represent me in Washington.
He leans forward in his chair. "No one's arguing that with you. Hell, you got Judge Marcome eating out of your hand. The old boy is ready to have a pig roast and you haven't even requested the warrants yet. I just want to make you aware of who and what you're dealing with. William Compton may be a shit, but he's a big shit around here."
I shake my head. "Still doesn't mean that I'm letting this go."
He smirks at me. "Didn't think you were," he says. "I just want you to know this isn't some stupid kid found with a bag of dope. They are going to pull out every trick they have."
"Let them," I say crossing my arms over my chest.
Frank's phone buzzes. Hitting the button he smirks at me again. He knows what that smirk does to me. Hell, he may not be the best lay I've ever had. But he sure gets the job done. Besides, Frank has his heart set on a Judgeship and I've got mine set on his seat. It's a win-win situation if you ask me.
"Yes?" He says to his assistant.
"Mr. Pierce, Judge Marcome is on line one." She says.
Frank disconnects and puts the Judge on speaker.
"Good morning, Your Honor," Frank greats him.
"Pierce, I take it you have Ms. Mason in the office with you?" He asks.
"I do indeed sir," I say to him. "Is this about the restraining order?"
"I take it you extended an invitation to your office?" He asks.
"I did, Sir. They should be here any moment."
"Good," he says. "I expect you all in my chambers by eleven." He says.
"Sir," I look at Frank. "I was under the impression you wanted Mr. Pierce to handle this?"
"Yeah, well. That is before I saw that little girl on the television yesterday. Those people have been trying to screw with that little girl for years. I think it's time we send a message. No one's above the law." He says.
"Sir, are you sure?" Frank asks.
The judge is quiet for a moment. "You ever meet Corbett Stackhouse, son?" He asks Frank.
"No Sir. Never had the pleasure." Frank says and looks at me.
"He was one hell of a guy. He and that pretty little wife of his worked tirelessly for the people of this state. We lost them too damn quick. It would be a dishonor to his memory if I didn't do what needs to be done where his daughter is concerned." He stops for a moment again. "Besides, she's my wife's favorite author."
Neither of us say anything. "If there's nothing else, I'm due in court. I will see you all at eleven." The judge hangs up and both of us let out a sigh.
"Guess we're going to see the judge," Frank says.
I just nod.
Frank and I busy ourselves reviewing the facts in several other cases we have on our plate when the phone rings again announcing the Comptons are here.
Both Frank and I get up and head to the small conference room down the hall.
When we walk in, we see Mr. and Mrs. William Compton along with Mr. Carter Lewis. He is one of the most respected and powerful attorneys in the state. Frank wasn't kidding when he said that they would be pulling out all the stops.
Carter stands and puts his hand out to Frank. "Frank," he says in that deep baritone voice, "it's been a long time."
"Carter," Frank says and looks to me. "I take it you know Anabeth Mason." He says.
Carter smiles at me. "Indeed I do." He reaches for my hand and I take it. "Always a pleasure to see you, Ms. Mason," he nods slightly.
"Likewise, Mr. Lewis." I say in response.
He motions to our other guests. "I hope we can clear up this misunderstanding." Carter says.
Frank and I sit. "Well, that will be up to Judge Marcome." Frank says.
Carter is sitting and hesitates for a moment before continuing to lower himself into the seat. "I was under the impression that we could resolve this quietly."
Frank nods. "I thought so as well," he pauses, "until I got a call from the Judge just before you all arrived. He would like us in his chambers at eleven am."
"This is crazy," Elizabeth jumps up.
"Elizabeth, sit down," Carter says sternly. She looks at him and then her husband. Neither of them look happy at the moment. "But this is ridiculous," she continues, "so I called her. I call her all the time. She is marrying my son, for goodness sake. Of course I would call her about these ridiculous and totally unfounded accusations."
"Mrs. Compton," I say and lean forward. "Your family was issued a restraining order by the judge. You failed to honor it. That is against the law."
"Well," she says and sits down, "it's a stupid law. She's practically family for godsake."
I nod at her. "You threaten all your family, Mrs. Compton?"
She has the nerve to look aghast. "I did nothing of the sort," she says. "I simply tried to find out why she was accusing my Bill of such horrendous things."
"Mrs. Compton," I continue. "Are you aware that there is a tape of that conversation?" I ask her.
"Which I'll have thrown out," Carter opens his briefcase and takes out a blue set of papers. "My client didn't consent to being recorded. To my knowledge, you had no warrant for a wiretap. Therefore, the tape is inadmissible."
I shake my head as I take the paper and hand it to Frank to examine. "We didn't need a warrant. Ms. Stackhouse made the tape on her own."
"You were using her as an instrument of your office. That means anything you get from her outside legal channels is inadmissible."
I'm about to say something when Frank touches my arm. "We can argue this in front of the judge." He says to me.
I look at him as he returns his attention back to Carter. "Regardless if the tape is admissible or not, your client still violated the restraining order."
Carter smiles. "I'll argue that she called the girl under duress. She was worried and didn't think." He stands and motions for the Comptons to do the same. "We will see you in chambers," he says.
Mr. Compton helps his wife to his feet and they all walk out without another word. It hadn't gone unnoticed that William Compton had nothing to say.
"He is being awful quiet," I say to Frank as I watch them enter the elevators.
"Carter Lewis is a very smart man," Frank says. "I'm sure he informed Mr. Compton of the jail time he will be facing if we decide to prosecute him as well."
I spin around to look at him. "What do you mean, if we decide?" I ask. "Of course we are going to prosecute. At the very least, the firm can face charges on Attorney Misconduct."
He shakes his head. "Only if you can prove that he had knowledge of his son's actions and didn't do anything about it." Frank says.
I nod. "William and his son are the senior partners in that firm. They are legally responsible for anything that is done or not done for their clients. Ignorance is not a defense." I say.
Frank laughs slightly. "Like I told you before," he pauses, "William Compton has a way of getting out of very tight spots. He may walk away from all of this with a slight fine for not filing the correct paperwork."
I huff and sit back down. "I'm not letting the Ole' Boy's Club run this to ground, Frank."
He looks at me. "No one is saying you will. Just be prepared to make a decision." He says.
"On what?"
"You have two fish on the hook right now." He pauses and I nod. "If you have a choice and have to throw one back, which of them do you want more?"
I think about what he's asking. Which fish, or in this case, scumbag, do I want to see pay more.
I sigh again. "I want the son."
He stands and goes to the door. "Come on, we are due in chambers in twenty minutes."
***0***
Elizabeth's POV
"I told you to keep your mouth shut." Carter says to me.
I give him a look I usually reserve for my husband. "Don't give me that look, Lizzy," he says. "I'm trying to keep you out of jail."
I wave him off. "Judge Melville Marcome has known my family for years," I say. "There are much more important things for the DA office to be doing than putting me in jail for calling my future daughter-in-law."
"Lizzy," William says. "Did you watch the press conference yesterday?" He asks me. "Did you see who was on stage with Sookie? She has no intention of marrying Bill."
"Oh pish," I say to him. "When Bill gets back from his little rest, I'm sure the first thing he's going to do is set all of this to rights. Sookie will realize the mistake she made and all will be well." I smile at both me. "You'll see."
They are fools if they think my brilliant son will let this all get him down. Sookie may not be my first choice for him. But he picked her and I've spent countless hours making her over into the perfect southern political wife. She will see the errors of her ways and come running back to my boy. This will all be a faint memory soon enough. My husband may have never gotten too far in politics. But my son, my son will live out the wishes of my father. I may have failed him in William. But I will not fail him in Bill. He wanted a legacy for his family. He wanted our name to mean something. He told me time and time again how disappointed he was that he got me instead of a son. That there wasn't much he could do with me, other than marry me off well. I can't really argue that point. He had high hopes for William and expected me to fulfill them. Well, I may not have been able to achieve his goals in his son-in-law, but I will in his grandson. Make no mistake.
Perhaps, I should be looking at Sookie from another avenue. I may not like her father's views nor what he did. But he seems to still have pull. Even from the grave. I will need to call the governor's house when we get home. Maybe I can use this. Perhaps the Stackhouse name is more of a benefit than I first realized. It could bridge the gap between the parties. Well, of course it could.
We pull up to the courthouse as a new plan of action is forming in my mind.
William helps me out of the car and we head up the stairs. I'm surprised to see several reporters nearby. I hadn't heard about any new and important cases. But then again, this whole thing with Sookie and Bill has made me somewhat distracted the last few days.
"Mr. Compton," one of them calls out. "Are you here to turn yourself in?"
Turn himself in? What is this man talking about?
"The Comptons have no comment at this time," Carter says to them.
"But can you confirm that the DA's office is looking into allegations that your son has been stealing funds from several people and organizations? Can you tell us where Senate-hopeful, Compton is right now, sir?" Another reporter asks.
"Can you comment on Ms. Stackhouse's press conference yesterday?" Another asks.
"What about the rumor that the Colligate for Moral Order is reconsidering their backing of Bill Compton? Another asks.
We say nothing as Carter and William rush me up the steps and into the court house. One look from Carter tells me to not ask any questions yet. We are through security and in the elevator before anyone speaks.
"How did they find out we were going to be here?" William asks.
Carter shakes his head. "I don't know," he replies. "Either someone in the DA's office leaked it or you, my friend have someone in your office that is making money off of this mishap."
"Well," I say. "There is no one that William employs that would be nothing but loyal to him." I say with a nod to my head. "It must be that terrible woman Ana."
Both men look at one another and say nothing.
***0***
Carter's POV
Twenty minutes later, we are ushered into Judge Marcome's office.
I can't believe how deluded Elizabeth is. I knew that William kept her somewhat sheltered from his dealings. But I've known that man going on thirty years. The man is as crooked as a question mark. And I consider him one of my close, personal friends. He has made money hand over fist for years in deals that weren't exactly legal. The only time he ever got close to having it hit home was with Moffit. If I hadn't thought quickly and distanced both of us from him, we would still be looking at jail time.
I am sure Moffit would have turned on us too. That is, if he hadn't killed himself. I still don't know how he got the razorblade. I'm also still not too sure that William didn't have anything to do with that suicide either. But then again, I've never asked. Hell, I don't want to know.
Pierce and Mason enter the room and not a minute later, the Judge comes in from the side door taking off his robes.
He looks at the room. "Good," he says. "You're all on time." We all stand as he makes his way to his desk. Picking up the phone, he asks that the court reporter come to his office. Once he hangs up the phone, he sits back in his chair and motions for us all to sit. He says nothing until the reporter comes through the door and sets up beside him.
She nods when she's ready.
"Alright," he says. "I chose to do this in chambers instead of in open court due to the media circus that is out front." He looks at every one of us. "I don't know which one of you is responsible for it, but I won't let the media dictate this, or any case I'm a part of. Is that clear?"
We all acknowledge that we understand.
"Now that we got that straight," he says and he takes his glasses and puts them on. "This meeting is to determine if one Mrs. Elizabeth Marie Hannaford Compton did indeed violate the restraining order issued on behalf of Miss Sookie Adele Stackhouse and all people pertaining to her and the Stackhouse Foundation," he says and puts the paper on his desk and looks at me and Lizzy. "How do you plead?" He asks.
"Not guilty, Your Honor." I say.
"You deny that your client called the girl in question, Mr. Lewis?" He asks with one eyebrow going up.
"No, Your Honor, we don't deny it," I say. I'm about to continue when he cuts me off.
"Well, I find it difficult to understand how she can admit to the act, yet still maintain her innocence." He says with a little laugh in his voice. "Do enlighten us, Counselor."
"Your Honor," I say. "We admit to the underlining act," I say, "but not to the criminal negligence of it. My client called the girl under duress. She thought this a misunderstanding and wanted to clear the air. I assure you that it will not be repeated."
"Your Honor," Ms. Mason intercedes. "Mrs. Compton called Miss Stackhouse, verbally accosted her and threatened her."
"Heresay, Your Honor," I interject.
"We have the conversation on tape." Masen retorts.
I pull out the same motion I gave them in the office. "Motion to suppress, Your Honor." I say and hand it over to him.
He takes it. "On what grounds?" He asks.
"Ms. Stackhouse was working as an agent of the DA's office. They had no warrant for a wiretap. Therefore anything said on that tape is fruit of poisonous tree." I say to him.
Judge Marcome looks to Pierce and Mason. "Did either of you instruct Ms. Stackhouse to record any conversations with the Comptons?" He asks.
"No, Your Honor," Pierce says. "To the best of our knowledge, Miss Stackhouse began taping several minutes into the call," Pierce says and hands over what I assume is a transcript of the conversation.
"Your Honor," I say. "I was not given time to review this evidence?" I say.
"It only became available to us yesterday, Your Honor." Pierce says and hands me a file with what I assume the transcript in it." He continues. "This is an affidavit from the detectives who received the tape from Miss Stackhouse," he hands us both a copy. "And, here are copies of the call made from the Compton home to the Stackhouse residence."
"We never denied she called the girl," I say. "Only that it wasn't criminal."
Marcome is silent for a moment as he reads the transcript. I skim it as well. It isn't as bad as I thought but still.
"Mr. Lewis," the Judge says. "Your motion is denied. It is the decision of this court that Miss Stackhouse was not working for the DA's office when she taped this call. I believe that it was done as a safety measure." He looks to Lizzy. "Mrs. Compton, it is the decision of this court that you are in violation of the restraining order issued by my office. Furthermore, I don't believe you did it out of anything more than to bully and intimidate Miss Stackhouse." She goes to say something. I squeeze her hand to stop her as the Judge puts up his to stop her from talking. "I can put you in jail for sixty days at the very least, Mrs. Compton. I would tread lightly if I were you."
Elizabeth sits further back in her chair.
Marcome looks around the room. "Jail time at this juncture would only fuel the media fire that is starting to burn regarding this case." Now Mason looks like she's going to say something but a look from the Judge stops her. "That being said, I feel a message needs to be sent that this court, and the DA's office doesn't take this lightly. Therefore, I'm ordering Mrs. Elizabeth Compton on house arrest until this case comes to trial," he says and looks at Lizzy. "Mrs. Compton, you will be issued an ankle bracelet that will be monitored. If you so much as move a hundred yards off your property without expressed permission from me, you will find yourself in general lockup. Do I make myself clear?"
"Your Honor," I begin but Marcome shakes his head. "I'm also ordering monitors be placed on your phone. If I get one report that you are trying to contact anyone involved with this case, your house arrest will be revoked."
"But, Your Honor," I say to him. "This is a little rash, don't you think? Mrs. Compton was upset and concerned about her future daughter-in-law. She understands the severity of the situation and there will be no repeat performance."
The Judge smiles at me. "Well then, this will just be a little reminder." He turns to Pierce. "I take it you will be bringing charges soon?" He asks.
Pierce stands. "We need a few more days before we go before a grand jury."
Marcome nods. "Very well," He says and looks at his watch. "I'm due back in court," he stands and makes his way to the door.
We all stand as he turns around to us, nods and heads out the door.
Pierce and Mason leave without a word to us. Elizabeth is still sitting there with a very strange look on her face.
"Lizzy," William says. "Are you okay?"
"Wh..What does all of this mean?" She asks.
"Lizzy, you are on house arrest. We need to have you fitted with an ankle monitor."
"But..But what does that mean?" She asks. "I didn't do anything wrong. I spoke to Sookie, that's it. They can't punish me…"
"Lizzy, did you listen to the Judge?" I ask her. "If the media wasn't involved, he would have thrown you in jail. This is the best of all possible bad solutions."
I stand and William and I help her up. We head out of the office, to find two detectives waiting for us to have Lizzy fitted with her new jewelry. I doubt this one will match her Cartier and Tiffany pieces.
***0***
EPOV
I would have spent all day with Sookie in bed. But she was right. We still have three more dances to learn and soon we will be running out of time. Didn't stop me from taking her once this morning. Okay, if you count the shower, which I do, it was twice. But we were getting clean at the same time. Let's hear it for multi-tasking.
While she was finishing up, I ran down to my office to check in with Bobby. Grabbing the files I needed, I took my laptop and arranged to have the two meetings this afternoon setup via teleconference so I could do them from Sookie's house.
Once I was satisfied everything was in order, I ran back to get My Love and we headed out to the club.
Warmed up and ready, Sookie stands and waits for my instructions.
"Okay, Love," I say to her. "Today we are going to learn the Bolero. It is a classic dance and one that always earns points with the judges."
She nods. "I've seen it done. It really is a beautiful dance."
We spend the next hour going over the steps before we move through them together. Sookie really is a fast learner. Dancing is in her blood. I can almost hear it sing when she starts to move.
She changes into dance shoes as I go to put on some music. We come together and begin the dance. She looks right in my eyes and I swear I feel like we are floating.
***0***
Amelia's POV
"You think they're in the studio?" I ask Pam as we enter the backdoor to the club.
"Well, his car is in his spot. If they aren't in the studio, then they're in the apartment. I so don't want to walk in on that." She says.
I laugh at her. As sexually free as she is, I know that she doesn't want to see her brother doing the nasty. Yeah, I don't think I would want to see that either.
I hear music and am more than a little relieved that they are in the studio. Not that I don't want Sookie to be getting some. Just not where I can see it.
We get off the elevator and make our way to the door we stop dead at what we see.
Bryan:
I finally found someone, that knocks me off my feet
I finally found the one, that makes me feel complete
Barbra:
We started over coffee, we started out as friends
It's funny how from simple things, the best things begin
Bryan:
This time it's different,
Barbra:
Dah dahdahdah
"Oh My God," Pam says. I nod. They look like they are floating.
Bryan:
It's all because of you,
Barbra:
Dah dahdahdah
Bryan:
It's better than it's ever been
Both:
'Cause we can talk it through
Barbra:
Oohh, my favorite line was "Can I call you sometime?"
It's all you had to say
I wrap my arms around Pam and watch them. I swear, the world has just slipped away and the only two left are them. I can't take my eyes off them.
Both:
To take my breath away
This is it, oh, I finally found someone
Someone to share my life
I finally found the one, to be with every night
Eric lifts Sookie into a spin that is breathtaking.
"Oh," Pam says in a gasp. All I can do is nod.
Barbra:
'Cause whatever I do,
Bryan:
It's just got to be you
My life has just begun
I finally found someone,
Barbra:
Ooh, someone
Bryan:
I finally found someone,
Barbra:
Oooh . . .
Bryan:
Did I keep you waiting,
Barbra:
I didn't mind
Bryan:
I apologize,
Barbra:
Baby, that's fine
Bryan:
I would wait forever
Both:
Just to know you were mine
Bryan:
You know I love your hair,
Barbra:
Are you sure it looks right?
Bryan:
I love what you wear,
Another lift and it looks almost like they are an extension of one another. This is just amazing. Never in my life have I seen another couple so perfect together.
Barbra:
Isn't it the time?
Bryan:
You're exceptional,
Both:
I can't wait for the rest of my life . . .
This is it, oh, I finally found someone
Someone to share my life
I finally found the one, to be with every night
Barbra:
'Cause whatever I do,
Bryan:
It's just got to be you
My life has just begun
I finally found someone,
Barbra:
Whatever I do,
Bryan:
It's just got to be you
Both:
My life has just begun
I finally found someone.
We stand in awe as they finish. I have no words to describe the feelings I'm having right now. Never has anything moved me so much. And I've been watching Sookie dance for over a decade.
They finally come out of their bubble and Sookie sees us.
"Hey," she says with a smile as she makes her way over to us. "Sorry, we didn't hear you."
She hugs us both and Eric comes up behind her and wraps his arms around her. "Yeah, we got a little caught up in the moment." He says and kisses her shoulder.
"Ya think?" Pam says. "Damn Eric, that was…"
"Was it bad?" Sookie looks worried.
"Honey, I've never seen anything like it," she says and shakes her head. "God, you two are just perfect together."
Sookie looks up at Eric as he looks down at her. The love is just pouring out of them.
"I hate to break up your training," she says, "but Lafayette heard from Ana."
That gets their attention fast. Both of them are now focused on me but I can't help but notice Eric has pulled Sookie in a little tighter.
I tell them about what happen with the judge and about the media waiting for them.
Sookie shakes her head. "How did the reporters know that Elizabeth was going to the courthouse?" She asks.
"Laf doesn't know and neither does Ana," I say. "Either someone in the DA's office is talking or someone around Elizabeth is." I shrug. "Either way, she's on house arrest. Ana says that they should be going in front of a grand jury later this week. Until then, the restraining order stands."
"Where is Compton?" Eric asks.
I shake my head again. "Ana isn't sure. He left no word on where he was going to be all week. He and Lorena are MIA."
I hear Sookie huff.
"Hey," I say to her. "If she's with him, then that's her problem."
Sookie shakes her head. "I know. And really, I'm not all surprised if I think about it. I just…"
"You just what, Sookie?" Eric asks.
"I hate that I was played for so long," she says. "I'm not stupid and I damn well know better than to stick my head in the sand. I just…"
"Hey, no more of that," he says to her and kisses her nose. I have to admit, it's kind of cute.
She sighs. "I'm good," she says and turns back to the two of us. "Eric and I are heading out to the farmhouse in a while to get some work done. Since it's Monday, do you all want to come for dinner?" She asks us.
She knows that the club is closed on Monday so it would be the perfect day.
I look at Pam, who nods her approval. I smile at Sookie. "That sounds like fun."
We say goodbye and let them get ready to leave.
I walk out with Pam. On the way to her office, I start thinking about what Sookie said. No it isn't her way to stick her head in the sand. It also isn't Bill's way to not be more discrete I admit, I had suspicions about him and Lorena before, but I never could find anything about him and her being alone together. Well, other than on the campaign trail. But still, for him to take up stakes and go MIA for a week, that is just, well, not part of the careful Bill I've come to know. Why would he be so blatant? Unless he is that sure of himself and of where Sookie is that he didn't think anyone would come looking.
"What's got you all in your head?" Pam asks me.
I look over to her as she sits behind her desk. "It just doesn't make sense that after all this time Bill would be so careless."
She shrugs. "I gave up trying to figure men out when I was fifteen. Women are easier." She says with a smirk.
I laugh. "I got that," she says. "But it still makes no sense."
She shrugs again. "Let the DA sort him out, honey," she says. "You've got a group of religious fanatics to deal with."
I huff. She's right about that. Lafayette and I have a call into their legal team. We should be hearing back from them soon.
I sit back on the leather sofa and look through my emails as Pam takes care of business. A few minutes later we hear a door open and close; signaling Eric and Sookie's departure.
I decide that Pam in right. I'll let the DA deal with Compton. We got our Sookie back and that is all that really matters.
***0***
Bill's POV
The big reject from the cast of the Godfather has moved me into the guest room. It has an insuite bathroom and sliding set of doors to the back patio, which he has barred from the outside with some sort of steering wheel lock. I had a hard time falling asleep, given my current situation. But sleep did finally find me.
I haven't heard Victor, or whatever his name is, return. But I do hear movement in the cabin. I'm assuming it's Lorena but I'm not putting all my money on it. After what I learned yesterday, I'm not so trusting. Imagine Lorena has been playing me for years. The thought of it just, Ugh!
I get up and pace the room. I've got to get out of here. I'm really not sure what Victor is going to do with me. He said he was going to leave but that doesn't mean anything.
My third trip across the room is interrupted by the door opening. I can see the reject standing in the hall as Lorena comes in with a tray.
"I made you some breakfast." she says and puts it on the dresser.
"That was very thoughtful, Lorena." I pause. "Or should I call you something else?"
She looks at me and I can tell she's been crying. Twenty-four hours ago I would have cared. Twenty-four hours ago, I would have been eating breakfast off her stomach.
"No, you…you can call me Lorena." She says.
I shake my head. "No, I think I would like to meet the real woman I've been sleeping with for the last three years, please." I say to her.
"Bill, don't…"
"Don't what? Ask for answers? Well if you don't want to tell me your name, why not tell me how you got mixed up with Victor?"
"He…He told you yesterday. He saved me from a con gone bad and I owed him. After that, we sort of fell together." She shrugs. "Every new place, we got new ideas and, well, Victor is really smart Bill. He's taken care of me for a long time."
"How the hell did you get into law school with fake ids?" I ask her. Surely the school would have known they were phonies.
She shakes her head. "You don't want to know."
She starts to go for the door, but I stop her. "I think I've got a right to know."
She looks me straight in the eyes. "You want to know?" I nod. "Fine," she growls. "We were in New York. We knew we had to get to New Orleans. We had already decided that our next mark was going to be personal. We never did personal. A mark was a mark. There weren't any feelings in it. But I wanted to pay your family back for what they did to mine." She pauses. "We shared a place with two kids from NYU, Victor Madden and Lorena Ball. They had just gotten into Law School down here and Victor and I saw our chance. They didn't have any family and we were really their only friends. We told them that we would move down with them. It would be easy for us to get jobs anywhere and they were thrilled we were coming along for the ride. We headed out and stopped in Myrtle Beach for the weekend. We all decided to take a trip on a fishing boat. Victor, the real Victor, rented it and we headed off one morning before the sun came up. Four went out and two came back." She is silent for a moment but I can see that there are absolutely no emotions in her eyes.
"You…you killed them?" I say softly.
She shrugs. "We needed their lives. We couldn't have two sets of Victors and Lorena's running around, now could we?"
"I…." I didn't know what to say to that.
"Victor has gotten good at it. Our first assimilation into someone else's lives almost made headlines. Good thing Victor thought of a fire. The house burned down and the bodies so charred there wasn't enough to make an id."
I shake my head at here. "Who…who are you?" I ask her.
She smiles at me. "Anyone I want to be," she says.
I hear the front door open. "Rena!" Victor shouts.
He walks back to the room and opens the door. "Oh good," he says. "They moved you." He smiles at me like I'm a damn house guest. "We are going to be here until at least Friday." He says. "Tucker is tracking up in the mountains and won't be back until later in the week."
Lorena looks at him. I'd never noticed the way she looks at him. It's almost like, I don't know, he's controlling her with his voice.
"I…couldn't we just…" He pulls her hair and brings her close to him. "You ain't backing out of this, Rena." He says. "I got trouble with those boys and I need this money to get me out of it."
"You…I told you that drugs weren't…AHH" He pulls her hair harder. "Stay out of my business girly," he growls at her. "Haven't I always taken care of ya?" He asks.
She nods slightly as the hold he has on her hair is still strong.
"Good," he pushes her away. "Now get in the kitchen and make me something to eat."
She doesn't even offer me another look as she makes her way out of the room.
He watches her leave. "Women," he sighs. "Even after all this time together, I still need to show her where she stands." He says to me. "Well, get comfortable, we're going to be here awhile."
I shake my head. "Victor, when I don't show up on Sunday, they are going to know something's wrong."
He laughs. "Oh, don't worry about that," he says. "I'll just tell them you are extending your trip." He laughs again. "No one really wants to see you Billy boy."
"Wha…What are you going to…" I can't get the words out.
"What am I going to do with what?" He asks me.
"With…with me?" I ask.
He looks at me curiously. "Nothing," he says. "As long as you and Lorena get the money for me," he says, "you are safe."
I only half believe him.
He laughs. "What? You think I'd kill you?"
I say nothing.
"Well, if you were anyone else, then yeah, maybe. But we're friends, Bill. I don't have many. I'm not about to kill one off. Especially one with millions of reasons to keep around," he laughs at his own joke. "Besides, you never know when I'll need another withdrawal," he steps closer and taps the side of my face. I pull back immediately which causes him to laugh again.
"You just be a good boy," he says. "This will all be over soon."
***0***
SPOV
Eric and I have slipped into a very delightful routine over the past week. We either practice at the club or at the house. We separate either in the morning or afternoon to work and always fall asleep in each other's arms. It is downright perfect.
We spent the night in Shreveport because Eric had several early meetings. One of them was to finish up the proposal for the new Stackhouse facility. I'm so pleased that he is doing it. He said it was his way to support my family and I love him so much more for it.
Robert Burnham had already rang me early to see if I needed anything. I met Robert, or Bobby as Eric calls him sometimes, is a very kind and generous man. He sort of reminds me of my grandfather. He takes care of Eric very well. Personally, I'm more than a little relieved that he is Eric's assistant and not some hussy. Okay, not all assistants are hussies. But I've got enough trouble with girls at the club hanging on him. Not to mention that in two weeks time, I'll need to deal with other dancers. Two weeks, God, that's not very long at all.
Eric and I are working early today so we can get to Bon Temps. First we need to meet up with Tara. She's already started on our dance costumes and I'm eager to see them. Then we are heading to Merlotte's for Tara's birthday. It isn't fancy like the club parties. But it's exactly what Tara wanted. It's her birthday, after all.
Even though it's a Friday, Pam and Eric decided to leave the club in the hands of their new manager Chow. I've met him. He is big and scary; until he opens his mouth. The man has an MBA from Princeton and is very articulate. He has been doing well under their tutelage and they decided this was a good night to try him out solo. Here's hoping he works out. Don't get me wrong, I love the club. But I would like it if both Eric and Pam could delegate more of the day to day operations. They both have other things on their plate. It would just be ideal.
I shake my head to refocus my attention on my latest chapter. Eric is really good for my muse. I've written more since I've met him than I've done in months. Yeah, it's only Eric's presense that is inspiring. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
I'm back in my zone when I hear the doorbell.
I stand to get it. I'm assuming that it's Amelia or Pam. Who else would come looking for me here?
I open the door and see a woman standing in front of me.
"Yes?" I ask her.
She takes me in from head to foot and back again. "Well, look at you."
I just stand there not knowing what to say.
***0***