Driving Heat (22 page)

The alarm sounded, but Cynthia didn’t need it to wake up. Her roiling thoughts and vacillating emotions had kept sleep at bay for most of the night. Before their standing Sunday chat, she hadn’t given serious consideration to her mother’s suggestion of accepting Stewart’s round-the-way proposal. For a moment, sure, simply because he was Jayden’s father and living under the same roof would give them time to bond. But for her, that’s where the benefits ended. Yes, he was handsome. But that was an attribute that had dropped increasingly lower as she matured. She didn’t want to marry someone whose face would scare away babies and puppies, but she didn’t have to marry someone with model-perfect features either. He was wealthy, and successful. For her, money wasn’t a motivator and success was relative. With smart, safe investments and a stable economy, Cynthia could live comfortably for the rest of her life and not have to work. That part of Stewart’s success could be connected to Jayden’s lack of a father tarnished what other women would find most impressive. And finally, there was Lisa’s comment when she told the girls how well that Stewart was endowed. Byron Carter had forever closed the book on the argument “size matters.” A trumpet could outdo a tuba if the right person was blowing.

Her cell phone rang, startling her out of her thoughts. She glanced at the clock. Only 7:15. There were only a couple people who’d call at this hour, neither of whom speaking to before coffee was a good idea. She reached for her phone and looked at the caller ID. The number was one she didn’t recognize.

“Hello?” She cleared the frog from her throat as she placed the call on speakerphone. She leaned against her cushioned headboard and went to her e-mail screen.

“Good morning, Cynthia. This is Officer DeWitt calling. I’m sorry to bother you at this hour, but there’s been a development in the case of one of your clients, one that may revoke the diversion program put in place to keep her from lockup. I thought you’d want to know.”

Hearing revoked had gotten her attention. Lockup pulled her out of bed. “Which client?” She asked the question but felt she already knew.

“Leah Thompson. She apparently left home on Saturday morning and while her mother and others have contacted her with instructions to call, she hasn’t been heard from since that time.”

“How did you find out about this?”

“A missing persons report was filed. I was flagged as soon as her name entered the system.”

Cynthia was in her closet, reaching for apparel she could don quickly. The thought to go to Ava’s home and meet in person was instinctual, not required. Having heard of Lance’s murder following a night he’d not come home, Cynthia could only imagine how Ava felt right now. And Byron? He was probably worried out of his mind as well.

“What’s the next step in the procedure?”

“Normally, we’d issue a warrant for her arrest.”

“I’m hoping you can hold off on doing that,” Cynthia quickly responded. “Her brother’s birthday happened not long ago, which reopened emotional wounds.”

“In that case, she should have called one of us for additional assistance. It’s what’s stated in the information she received and no doubt reiterated by you as well.” Cynthia sent a text to the babysitter, to see how early she could arrive. “Some think she’s with a boyfriend, quite likely someone with a criminal record. This, of course, is another violation of the program conditions.”

This wasn’t news to Cynthia. It’s what she expected. As soon as the officer had said she was missing, she thought about Leah and her lashing out at Aaron. Cynthia had seen straight through the flimsy veil of anger to the truth. This young man was Leah’s first love. His betrayal had not only hurt her but left her feeling bereft and alone. She felt it wouldn’t take much of an apology to get back in Leah’s good graces.

“Is there any way I can have a day or so to speak with her mother and also check the files for information that might be useful in finding her?”

“Seeing your genuine interest in the clients you serve is one of the reasons I called you. You want them to succeed, and so do I. So, yes, I’ll hold off, but about the best I can give you is twenty-four hours. We all believe this is a voluntary disappearance, but should it turn out that foul play is involved, then the time that we’re idle will prove significant.”

“Thanks for calling me, Officer DeWitt. I’ll keep you updated on anything I find out. And will you do the same?”

“Absolutely.”

Cynthia took a quick shower. By the time she finished, her summer sitter had texted back. She was on her way over.

“Good.” Cynthia brushed her hair into a simple ponytail, ran a mascara brush through her lashes, and dabbed on lip gloss and perfume. Before heading into Jayden’s room, she scrolled her priority file for Ava’s number and called.

“Good morning, Ava. This is Cynthia Hall.”

A moment of hesitation and then Cynthia heard Ava’s greeting. “I understand that it’s early and this call is unexpected. The reason is because earlier this morning I was contacted by Leah’s parole officer. I assume she’s spoken to you as well?”

“Yes.”

“And you’ve still not heard from Leah?”

“No, not a word.”

“Officer DeWitt has agreed to give us a little more time to locate your daughter before a warrant is issued. I’d like us to meet as soon as possible and can either come to your house or meet down at my office.”

“Coming here would be best. I’m trying to stay close just in case she comes home.”

“That’s my hope as well. I’ll be leaving my house shortly and should be there in twenty minutes or so. Try to stay positive. There are a lot of us pulling for your daughter to be okay.”

Her sitter took longer than expected and traffic was a mess, so it was nearly forty minutes later when Cynthia arrived at Ava’s house. It wasn’t until she didn’t see Byron’s silver SUV that she acknowledged the part of her that had wanted him there. He’d been on her mind all weekend while she grappled with what decision would be in Jayden’s best interest and had lost count of how many times she’d wanted to call. Byron’s easy manner, straightforward approach to life, and lack of judgment made him easy to talk to. Unlike a lot of men she’d known, who quickly became bored with a conversation not centered on them, he was also an attentive listener who’d ask clarifying questions and repeat portions of what was said back to make sure he’d understood correctly. True, she missed his totally magical pocket trumpet but even more, she missed him.

Concerned eyes met weary ones as Ava opened the door. “Morning, Ava.”

“Hi, Cynthia. Come on in.”

One look and Cynthia knew that Ava had had an even worse night than she. Dark circles surrounded bloodshot eyes. A headband held back hair that had seen neither comb, brush, nor wrap. “No need to ask how you’re holding up,” she said, following her into the living room. “Difficult is probably too light a word to describe this.”

“I have no words left.” Ava walked past the living room into the dining room. “Have a seat,” she threw over her shoulder. “You want some coffee?”

“Yes, please.” Cynthia started to rise.

Ava waved her down. “Don’t worry, I’ll get it. Cream and sugar?”

“Yes, thank you. Lots of both.”

As she waited, Cynthia looked around the simply decorated home. Family pictures in a variety of frames covered almost every surface. One wall held an obvious tribute to Lance. The photos gave a pictorial of his life: newborn baby, toddler, T-ball, kindergarten, football, high-school graduation, and several of him smiling with family and friends. She walked over to the wall for a closer look at one with Leah. He looked to have been twelve or thirteen in the picture, which would have made Leah seven or eight. He’s standing with one foot in front of the other, arms crossed, and head tilted, with a confident smile to the camera. Leah has eyes only for her brother. One foot is turned inward and her hands are clasped in front of her as she looks at him with rapt admiration, as though he hung the moon and as if the sun was shining because he’d told it to. She felt when Ava walked up beside her, but continued reading the story that this picture told.

“That’s one of my favorites.” Ava’s voice was low as she held the mug of steaming coffee for Cynthia to take. “It was Lance’s birthday. He’d turned twelve. Byron had purchased six tickets to Magic Mountain, for me, Lance, Leah, and three of our friends.”

“What a thoughtful gift!” Cynthia took a sip of coffee. “This is perfect, thanks.”

Ava returned to the couch. “Byron has always been that way, very concerned for others with a heart of gold.”

“He’s very worried about Leah, as am I.”

“Why are you so worried about her?” Ava set her cup on a cork-styled coaster. The question was asked in a mildly curious tone, but there was a hardened look in her eyes.

Cynthia was taken aback by the question, and gathered her thoughts behind a sip of coffee before she too sat down her mug. “Because she’s my client, of course, one who I believe could have a bright future and one I’d like very much to keep out of jail.”

“I appreciate everything you’ve done for her. Until a week or so ago, I was sure the counseling sessions were working to turn her around. Then all of a sudden, bam. She’s right back to being the girl I barely know, the one Lance’s death created. After getting your call this morning, I thought, wasn’t that around the same time that she cut communication with Byron”—her eyes slid to Cynthia and back to the wall—“again?”

“Whenever something either did or didn’t happen between Byron and I has absolutely nothing to do with Leah’s behavior.”

“What about yours?”

“Mine? Are you suggesting that I changed the way that I act professionally based on a personal matter, and this somehow led to your daughter’s running away?”

“Leah left here to run behind someone she has no business being with. Let’s get that straight. But I can’t help but wonder about the coincidence in timing, just like I can’t help but try and figure out the real reason you’re with Byron. I love my brother, but let’s face it. Women like you don’t usually go for the blue-collar types.”

“I can assure you that every interaction with your daughter, whether within a counseling session, by phone, or casual chitchat afterward, has been professional and genuine. I became a counselor to make a difference in the lives of young people who didn’t grow up with the types of advantages that were the norm in my circles, benefits that were often taken for granted. People often judge based on the wrapping, but no human package contains a perfect gift. When young, some make mistakes that affect the rest of their lives. I know how hopeless one can feel when that happens. I care, Ms. Thompson. That’s why I’m showing such concern for your daughter, and that is why I’m here.”

Cynthia looked directly at Ava without batting an eye, as she worked to slow her escalated heartbeat. The woman was beside herself with worry and fear for her daughter, a fact Cynthia had used to excuse Ava’s less-than-pleasant mood. But there was no excusing a thinly veiled putdown or the implied accusation that Cynthia’s involvement with Byron gave her less influence with Leah.

“I do believe you care about Leah,” Ava said. “And I want you to know I appreciate all you’ve done. The way I feel about my child comes very close to the way I feel about my brother, and my entire family. The way you were acting, interested one minute, gone the next, I felt you were just toying with Byron. He doesn’t need that. And he doesn’t need to be used to satisfy a curiosity.”

“Just what type of curiosity do you think he’d be satisfying?”

Ava’s countenance softened. “Can we just be girls for a minute? I’ve often wondered what it would be like to be with a rich man, someone who grew up with all kinds of advantages, like you did. Maybe you just wanted to try out somebody from the hood, a brother who grew up like the clients you counsel.”

Cynthia’s first thought was not to answer. After all, her personal life was none of Ava’s business. But considering the unusual set of circumstances that brought about this topic in the first place, she decided to be truthful, and hoped that doing so would stop the questions and suspicions, and get the focus back to why she was here.

“I initially went out with Byron because he was cocky and annoying, and much like you’ve done just now assumed quite a bit about me. I thought I’d meet him for coffee and be on my way. Surprisingly, I met a man who I found to be very comfortable in his skin, genuinely interested in me as a person, and easy to talk to. We had things in common, which I didn’t expect. The more I was around him the more I came to care for him. I didn’t expect that either.

“I would never play anyone’s heartstrings. I know what it’s like to be hurt. It was in the interest of this case and my client that I have limited contact with your brother, so there would be no question as to my professional commitment. That is the only reason I backed away from your brother, Ava. He’s still cocky and quite annoying at times.” Ava laughed. “But he is also an amazing man.”

“Well, well, well.” Both women jumped at the sound of the male voice coming through the front-door screen. “I am happy that you now admit what I’ve told you all along.”

“Oh, Lord. Talk about bad timing.” Ava walked over and unlocked the screen. “I hope you also heard her say you were annoying as hell.”

“No, I didn’t hear that part. Hey, sis.” He gave Ava a hug.

Cynthia started talking before his back foot hit the living-room floor. “How long were you out there?”

“Long enough to know that we need to talk. Later, though, not now.”

“Any news?”

Ava stood next to Byron, wringing her hands. Cynthia almost regretted getting angry at the earlier comments. Interest in her and Byron’s relationship had kept Ava’s mind off of her missing daughter, at least for a while.

“Actually, yes. Gavin called Douglas and told him that Aaron is in Las Vegas.”

“Vegas!” Cynthia and Ava exclaimed in stereo.

Ava followed Byron, who walked over to sit on the couch. “Leah’s in Vegas?”

“Douglas said Gavin thinks so. That’s where Aaron is, and he’s with a girl, but Gavin said he wouldn’t give a name. Don’t worry. Nelson is working on getting me and Daddy buddy passes.”

Ava sat back. “Daddy’s going with you?”

“You know Leah’s his heart. He doesn’t say much, especially around Mama, but he’s been really worried about her. He said coming along if for nothing but the ride will make him feel better than sitting home wondering what’s going on.”

Cynthia walked past the sofa and sat on a matching love seat. “Did Aaron’s brother say where they were staying?”

“If he knows, he didn’t tell Douglas.”

“I wonder why not?” Cynthia speculated.

“Because he knows my brothers,” Ava responded. “They’re all respectable now, with good jobs and even better reputations, but there was a time when if one of them had a beef with you, you stayed off the block.”

“I was pretty riled when I saw him Sunday morning,” Byron admitted. “And truthfully, I don’t need to see Aaron’s behind even now. I just want to see Leah. And get her home before she jacks up all of the progress she’s made.”

“I almost wish I could go with you,” Ava mumbled.

“No, you need to stay here.”

“Ava, I agree with Byron. You’d want to be able to contact her probation officer as soon as she arrived. However, I think my going to Vegas might be a good idea.”

Byron’s head whipped around. “You? Why?”

“A couple of reasons. As the counselor assigned to her through the system, I’d have access to certain information that would otherwise be confidential and not released to just anyone who asks, including relatives. Hotel records, for instance, and other documents that might help us find her. Secondly, if she is located, I’d be a less threatening, more neutral person for her to speak with. Byron, you’ve just admitted being upset to the point of threatening violence against her alleged travel partner, a move that would heighten an already tense situation and potentially cause Leah to revert further into a shell of silence. I believe she’ll talk to me. She knows that whatever is discussed between us will remain confidential and that assurance, I believe, has helped gain her trust.”

“What about your job?” Ava asked. “I mean, will it be a problem for you to do this?”

“Going to Vegas is doing my job. Before arriving here I spoke with my assistant, and left word for my boss. It is in the best interest of the agency for this case to be resolved in a positive manner. My being successful in keeping Leah out of jail means that everyone wins.”

Byron looked at her, one brow arched and twinkling eyes. “Everybody?”

Cynthia returned his gaze but didn’t answer his question.

Ava was ready for the search to begin. “How long ago did you talk to Nelson?”

“Texted him as soon as Douglas heard from Gavin, I think around two, three o’clock this morning. He told me the girl he gets them from arrives around nine and he’d text me then.”

Cynthia reached for her bag and stood. “Why wait on his text to go to the airport? If you know the airline, then I suggest we go to the airport now. That way, when your passes come in we can catch the next flight.”

Ava nodded. “By, I think that’s a good idea.”

After deciding that Cynthia would park her car at the airport and Byron would pick up Mr. Carter and meet her there, the two left Ava’s house and walked to separate vehicles. Cynthia quickly set her GPS for the fastest route to the airport and then made calls to the sitter and work.

“Hey, Ivy, it’s me. I just spoke with Tracy and let her know that I won’t be in today. I’m handling a sensitive client situation, but for the most part will be available by phone.”

“Oh, my goodness. I hope everything turns out okay.”

“Me too. In the meantime, could you please cancel the afternoon appointment I had with the Morgan Foundation? If they suggest a reschedule, make it sometime next week.”

“Got it.”

“Also, I need you to check into flights to Las Vegas leaving today, any time after, say, ten o’clock.”

“You’re going to—”

“Careful! The cubicles have ears and if anyone there other than you or Tracy mentions this trip, I’ll know someone talked.”

“Totally understand. Can I use your office to make a call? I may need to speak to someone personally to gather the info you’ve requested.”

“Of course.” Cynthia’s caller ID flashed. “I need to take this call but aside from the time in flight, I should be available.” She activated the incoming call. “Good morning. This is Cynthia Hall.”

“I know who it is, beautiful. I’m the one who called.”

“Hello, Byron.”

“I appreciate what you’re doing for Leah. I know I’m not the reason, but it makes me feel good to know you care.”

“You are correct. Leah Thompson is the reason for my actions. Given a similar situation, I would do the same for any of my clients.”

“Dang, girl. You could have at least acted like your trip to Vegas was just to be able to spend time with yours truly.”

“And take away your chance to assume? Never that.”

He laughed. “It was good seeing you. And I don’t mind saying that aside from finding Leah and getting her back home, being able to hang with you is the best part of this trip. Matter of fact, Daddy snores. I think if we have to spend the night, I should stay with you.”

“That’s not going to happen.”

“Why not?”

“Because for one thing I—hold on, Byron. Let me see who this is.” She tapped her steering wheel. “Good morning. This is Cynthia Hall.”

“Good morning, Ms. Hall. This is Stewart Monihan. It is a pleasure to hear your lovely voice.”

“I can’t say that I feel the same. How did you get my number?”

“Please don’t be upset with me.”

“You don’t have to worry about my being upset, I’m way past upset. I’m past livid and headed toward crazed. How dare you get in cahoots with my mother to plan a future to which I haven’t even considered, let alone agreed to do!”

“I have only the best intentions, Cynthia. Your mother called me, understandably distraught that word had leaked regarding Jayden’s parentage and equally angry that I’d gone back on my word and revealed the financial exchange. I don’t regret telling you the truth, Cynthia. But I deeply regret my decision, even though my accepting the bribe isn’t for the reasons you think. Yes, I was ambitious and protective of my reputation. But I was equally protective of yours. My wife had threatened to expose you had I not agreed to your mother’s deal to leave you alone.”

“And now it seems you’ve once again teamed up with my mother, this time to keep me forever. Look how we’ve come full circle.” Sarcasm oozed through the phone line.

“Our meeting wasn’t planned. We ran into each other at an event. She called me the next day, totally heartbroken that the town would find out what happened years ago. I know the two of you rarely see eye-to-eye, but she loves you, Cynthia, and has your best interest at heart.”

“I believe she loves me, in her own way. But I’ve come to know a different level of love that allows me to see everything and everyone more clearly, including you and my mother. If her heart is breaking it is because of her interests, and the repercussions this news might have on her life. I’m still trying to figure out the angle by which a marriage between us would best your business interests, but I’m sure your desire to make things right between us, as you say, is not just about love or simply about getting to know Jayden. It’s about business, it’s about money, and it’s about your career.”

“In our world, love and business are often bedfellows. I won’t deny that and neither would your parents, my parents, nor anyone in our circles. So when your mother questioned my plans for the future, I was truthful. I told her about my impending divorce, the desire to marry you, and the plan to become a father to the son I don’t know. It’s already been eight years too long.”

“Stewart, I’ve waited that long to hear you say you want to be in Jayden’s life and will do everything possible to make that happen. But your being in my life is a different matter, and something that with everything else that’s going on I can’t even deal with right now. We can talk later.”

“Promise?”

“Yes, later tonight, I’ll call you.”

“Thank you, my love. I’ll be waiting.”

Cynthia ended the call and saw that Byron had hung up. It was just as well. He wouldn’t have liked knowing who’d interrupted their conversation, especially since Stewart’s ultimate goal was to insinuate himself in her and Jayden’s lives . . . on a permanent basis.