Music, laughter and conversation filled the old bar, the typical Saturday crowd enjoying themselves at their favorite Four Corner's nightspot.
Unlike many of the nightclubs and bars around the city, Inez's didn't cater to any particular type of clientele. The patrons consisted of everyone, from baseball cap wearing truck drivers to Armani garbed business executives. Everyone was comfortable and everyone was welcome as long as they didn't start trouble. It certainly wasn't unusual to see people of all races and walks of life mingling together, the old regulars making most newcomers feel welcome as they all enjoyed themselves.
Unlike some of the other watering holes in town, women felt safe coming to the bar alone or with friends, knowing a simple word to the proprietress would end any unwanted advances which might be made toward them. It was a place where men could meet their friends or bring their wives or girlfriends. The old juke box converted to play CD's contained an eclectic variety of music from rock and roll to rap, heavy metal and country. The wide variety of food offered on the menu was excellent, the staff friendly and the prices were more than fair. Rarely did anyone leave Inez's displeased.
His arm resting comfortably on the back of Mary Travis' chair, Chris Larabee sipped his beer, pleased with what he saw as he surveyed the other team members who intermittantly straggled back to the long table.
Inez had replaced the men's regular table with a larger piece of fold up furniture, covering it with a linen cloth and situating three bouquets of colorful flowers, down the center, adding a touch of elegance knowing this was to be a special celebration. The bar owner had even taken it upon herself to wait on her favorite customers, who happened to be her tenants as well. They would repay her thoughtfulness, making sure she didn't lift a finger during the following day's barbecue at Larabee's ranch.
The conversation around the table was light hearted and enjoyable as only good friends or family can make it, covering every topic imaginable. It would have been simple for a casual observer to believe those gathered had been friends their entire lives, or were perhaps family members having a casual reunion.
"That boy never ceases to amaze me," Nathan commented over the music, his eyes on the small dance floor where Ezra, Dionica, Lucy and Vin had joined several other couples. "A waltz I could believe. The Tango, ballroom, the jitterbug even but I never would have thought Ezra had ever even heard of the Texas two step let alone would be an expert at it."
"Not everyone has two left feet...Like you." Rayne giggled snuggling playfully against the handsome doctor. "Course ya know all the other right moves in other areas and that's all that counts."
The healer's embarrassed blush caused a round of laughter from the couples still seated at the table.
The song ended and one of the couples moved to rejoin their friends.
"Vin, I swear one a these days some mad scientist is gonna kidnap you just to experiment with your sugar levels." Buck Wilmington chuckled as the young sharpshooter held out Lucy's chair before reaching over and snatching his third slice of the chocolate birthday cake beside the pile of presents.
"I could deal with it." Tanner grinned, around his mouthful of cake. "As long as he feeds me. Dancin' works up an appetite."
"Man does not live by dessert alone." Lucy laughed.
"Depends on the dessert." The sharpshooter drawled softly, bringing a blush to her cheeks as she licked at the icing left on her lips from his light kiss. His azure eyes twinkled with mischief. "Man needs ice cream too."
"I didn't figure we'd even see Ez, this weekend," JD commented, drawing everyone's attention to the couple on the dance floor, dancing to a love song from the eighties. "I thought with Nica gonna be away for at least a month, they'd hole up together until Monday mornin'."
"Figure there'll be at least one weekend we won't see him at all." Wilmington agreed, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively. "He's probably already made flight reservations to Malibu."
Knowing Dionica's crew was leaving Monday for California on a major remodeling job, no one had questioned Ezra's intentions when the southerner had taken the previous day off and not shown up for their usual Friday night get-together at Inez's. Ezra had gone to great lengths for Dionica's birthday and wanting the pretty little owner of the construction company to know she was truly considered a part of their unique family, everyone had pitched in to make this a special weekend for her.
"Probably did their own celebratin' last night." Vin drawled, his eyes still twinkling at the look Lucy gave him. "Reckon he wanted to make sure she spent her birthday with family. Even if it was his family."
Larabee's hazel gaze turned once more to the couple on the dance floor. Of the seven men who made up the Presidential Task Force, Ezra Standish had been the last to join the team and the hardest to pull into their circle. A combination of circumstances had seemed to work against them...timing, Ezra's upbringing and personality clashes.
The other six men had already been together for a few months, discovering similarities and common interests, when Standish had accepted Chris' offer. While their individual specialties seemed to automatically pair them off as partners, working undercover meant Ezra more often than not worked alone and was often away from the others for weeks at a time.
When it came to his past, the verbose con man was extremely closed mouth. Larabee's research had produced very little on the man and most of what they had discovered in the time they'd known him had come about accidentially...from the gambler himself.
They were all to aware the con man had been raised with the belief that caring about, or trusting anyone other than himself was the ultimate sin. A lesson his mother had drove home everytime she saw him, giving credence to the belief that had taken solid root in his childhood.
Still believing he had only himself to trust in and rely on, Ezra had joined the team, valiantly fighting to keep the men at arm's length, staying behind the protective walls that guarded his heart. He was, in fact so aloof and distant, Chris had seriously given thought to cutting him loose.
The gambler's own insecurities had been enhanced by volitile personality clashes with the other six, especially Nathan who had never bothered to hide his disapproval of the con man's previous livelihood, his love of gambling or what the physician considered his immoral ways. Granted Chris himself hadn't made matters any simpler, letting the gambler know from the very beginning he wasn't convinced that Ezra could be trusted. The team leader fully expected the con man to run out on them the first chance he got.
Vin Tanner's own stubborness and tenacity had been the winning factor in bringing the contrary con man into the fold, completing the circle that made up their unique family of misfits. With some sixth sense, the young tracker accepted the gambler as he was, putting no expectations, no standards on the man. Actions which had bewildered the con man himself, leaving Ezra uncertain which of his many facades the Texan expected to see. By the time Standish had figured it out, Tanner had extended his calloused hand in friendship and wiggled his skinny butt past the gambler's self erected walls. Vin's stubborn persistence had kept Standish with them.
"Thanks Pard." Chris murmured softly to the man on his right.
"For what?"
Larabee smiled, as the sharpshooter looked confused, finally shrugging and turning his attention to the woman at his side when it became apparent Chris wasn't going to answer.
'Thanks for Ezra. Thanks for giving us the pleasure of knowing that conniving little shit.'
It had been Vin, who suggested Standish for Larabee's team and it had been Vin who had refused to give up on the con man, slowly scaling the walls, earning the cardsharp's trust and proving not only to the other five but to Ezra himself that the gambler was worthy of their confidence and their friendship.
With the other men's help, letting Ezra set the pace, Tanner had worked steadily at tearing down the walls, brick by green sided brick revealing the puzzling man behind the southerner's many masks. Masks Standish wore to confuse those he considered predators.
There was still things they didn't know or understand about the gambler and probably never would but they'd all taken pleasure in watching the transformation as the chameleon of their group had allowed them to see the man he truly was. An out going, bashful, fun loving, sarcastic, sneaky, witty, obstinate, cocky, insecure, generous, giving, argumentative, pain in the ass, mass of contradictions.
They had all come to consider it time well spent. Ezra Standish had finally come to understand they considered him a part of their family and had accepted them as such.
"You should all be proud of yourselves...She's good for him."
Having heard Mary's soft comment and seeing Lucy's small smile of agreement Vin gave the woman he loved a playful nudge. "Ya wanna translate for me....Don't know 'bout Chris but sometimes I have trouble speakin' female. What have we got to do with Ez and Nica?"
"She means because the six of you accepted him,...instead of forcing him into a mold of what you wanted...Because you gave him the freedom and leeway he needed, he was able to become the person he wanted to be..." Lucy nibbled her lip in contemplation. "Or perhaps he just found out he could let himself be...himself."
*******
His smile one of pure contentment, Ezra gazed lovingly at the woman in his arms, her body gently swaying in time to the soft music, gracefully following his lead.
He still wasn't sure what he had done to deserve such happiness and while he didn't want to question it, his very nature demanded he do just that.
Ezra's life had been built on a foundation of suspicion and deceit. He had learned at an early age that while he could easily charm the material possessions he wanted from others, talk his way out of most situations and manipulate most people as easily as his favorite deck of cards, he could just never bring himself to trust anyone with his true innermost feelings...or his heart.
That had changed nearly three years earlier when he'd noticed himself being followed by a dark clad stranger and his long haired friend.
Three years?
Was it possible that after so many years alone his life had completely changed in such a short time?
Could it be possible that he had truly found a family who cared about him and a woman who not only loved and accepted him but also trusted him beyond a shadow of a doubt? Had he truly discovered all that and more by simply dialing the phone and saying yes to Chris Larabee's intriquingly strange offer?
Three little letters. One tiny word had made such earth shattering changes in his life. Changes he had never even dreamed possible in his wildest fantasies
No, he had to admit, it hadn't been simple. From the very beginning it had been one of the toughest times of his life.
From the moment he'd voiced that small word of agreement, the doubts and insecurities, which had plagued the con man his entire life, had surfaced. He had struggled to follow his mother's teachings, terrified of depending on anyone. He had been so afraid of having his heart ripped to shreds, expecting any moment, the betrayal he knew was immenient if he allowed any of the six men to see how vulnerable he was. He knew they would make him a laughing stock if they even guessed how desperately he wanted to become a member of the family Chris Larabee had pulled together.
He had accepted the job offer and then more than anything he had feared the pain brought about at their disappointment and desertion when they finally realized he...a heartless, uncaring bastard of a con man...wasn't worth the effort they had put forth.
To the gambler's utter stupefication, not only had the other men put their very lives on the line for him but no matter how hard or how far he pushed them away...it was never far enough. They always came back. No matter what he did, no matter how he messed up, no matter how fiercely he had strruggled to remain an outsider, with a will as strong as his own, the men had refused to surrender. Combining forces with a lanky, good natured, blue eyed Texas tornado they had shown him the true meaning of acceptance...and friendship.
Ezra had been both stunned and amazed when they hadn't turned away in disgust at the bits and pieces revealed of his sordid past. They hadn't turned their backs at what they might personally consider dishonorable acts nor had they left him to take sole blame when things went wrong.
Through all the arguments, laughter, verbal and mental battles, a deep sense of trust had blossomed growing stronger with each display of loyality.
They had shown him that not all people were out for themselves and had encouraged him to risk his heart one more time when Dionica had walked into his life.
Ezra's smile widened seeing the love shining in the young woman's soft hazel eyes as she gazed up at him.
"What?" She mouthed silently but he only smiled and shook his head, knowing there weren't enough words in his extensive vocabulary to describe his feelings for her.
He wasn't sure why Lady Luck, had decided to smile on him but he would be sure to give thanks and enjoy every moment Josiah's God graced him with this reward.
*******
"Aww shit!" Tanner muttered seeing Ezra stiffen, his steps faltering ever so slightly. He'd seen that reaction enough to know what it meant.
*******
"Ezra?" Dionica's heart began to race in fear as the gambler's smile faded, the hand holding hers tightened, the color drained from his handsome face and his steps slowed then ceased all together. "Ezra are you alright?"
"I'm fine." He sighed, working to put his poker face in place. "I did so want this weekend to be special..."
"Any time I'm with you is special." She whispered for his ears only.
"How is it you always know the right thing to say?" The gambler's smile was back in place but not quite as bright nor did it have the peace it had held only a moment earlier. "Unfortunately, my dear, I'm afraid you will soon regret ever having heard the name Ezra P. Standish."
"Not a chance in hell!" She scoffed with feeling.
'Please let it be so.' Taking a deep breath he turned and led her back to the table.
*******
"Damn, damn, damn." Vin muttered scrunching down in his seat.
Larabee's eyes widened suddenly realizing why his best friend was reacting to what they'd both seen. "Don't tell me...Don't fuckin' tell me that-"
"Gentlemen."
With that one word, Larabee cringed, wishing he was anywhere else at that moment. As if a warning siren went off in his head, Ezra didn't have to see his mother to know she was in the vicinity.
"Maude!" Always delighted to see the cultured woman, Josiah quickly rose and borrowing an empty chair from a nearby table, seated the woman between himself and Molly. He may be enamored of her at times but the psychologist knew full well the ill effect her presence could have on Ezra. His seating arrangement placed the older woman across from and slightly diagonal to Ezra and Dionica's empty seats.
Chris exchanged looks with Vin, the question unspoken. 'What the hell is she doing here?'
Vin shrugged slightly. 'What else...Came ta make make him miserable.'
The silent exchange took place as ordering Maude a drink, the gray haired ex-FBI agent introduced her to the other women she didn't know, giving the men time to mentally prepare themselves to once more deal with the force of nature which was Maude Standish.
Maude waved a hand at the decorations, cake and gaily wrapped gifts. "I must apologize as it appears I've intruded on a celebration of some sort."
"Nonsense." Celia smiled graciously. "I'm sure Ezra will be happy you're here."
Rayne elbowed Nathan's ribs, glad Maude hadn't seemed to hear the physician's snort of derision. Like Mary and Lucy she knew enough about Ezra's mother to know this wasn't likely to be pleasent for the con man.
"Hello Mother."
Maude looked up, feigning surprise at seeing her son standing beside her chair. "Ezra my darlin' boy!"
Ezra dropped a light kiss on her up tilted cheek, before drawing Nica closer. "Mother, I'd like you to meet Dionica Ryan."
Hiding her shock at the unannounced arrival of the woman Ezra rarely spoke of, the petite construction worker pasted a smile on her face and extended a hand. "I'm very pleased to meet you Mrs. Standish."
Maude had been the picture of genteel southern graciousness when speaking with the other women, and while her smile never faltered, the disdain was clearly visible in the blue eyed gaze which raked over the young woman at her son's side. Mumbling a greeting, she shook the extended hand, watching closely as her son escorted Nica around the table and took the seat beside her.
Each of them remembering the conversation that had taken place on Larabee's porch a few months earlier, and Chris' description of the type of woman Ezra would be attracted to, the party guests all watched the interaction, the men ready to intervene, before the older woman could do any permanent damage. It seemed all to evident, Dionica Ryan was not Maude Standish's choice for her only son.
"I was just offering my apologies to your associates, Ezra, for barging in on their party." Maude cooed. "Your doorman told me I might be able to find you here."
"It's part of the birthday celebration Ezra planned for me Mrs. Standish and I'm glad you could come." Dionica offered sweetly, before Ezra could respond. "Ezra's told me so much about you."
"Unfortunately I can't say the same." Maude sighed. "But then again he only tells me about the important things...And his female conquests has never been at the top of the list."
"Mother!" The gambler exclaimed, his poker face completely forgotten.
"Think she's got Buck and Ezra mixed up." JD mumbled, drawing a giggle from Casey.
"That's rather strange... He talks to me about everything." Her hand resting on his thigh Dionica gave Ezra's leg a reassuring pat, meeting the con woman's gaze steadily. She hoped Ezra realized she didn't want him to fight this battle for her. She could and would handle anything Maude threw her way.
'Score one for the good guy.' Tanner stifled a smile, mentally placing a chalk mark on a blackboard. He knew Nica had just as much spunk as Lucy and heaven forbid if his little spitfire ever had reason to face off one on one with Maude.
"Ezra always has loved to hear the sound of his own voice. As a child he would rattle on for hours about anything that happened to catch his fancy." Maude laughed lightly, emphasizing the last two words, the steel never leaving her eyes. "Of course having to listen to the inconsequential chatter helps when you have such a pretty package to look at and you must admit, my darlin' boy is one handsome devil."
'It's a damn wonder the man opens his mouth at all.' Larabee thought, watching Ezra's mental struggle to reinforce the walls against his mother's callous remarks. 'Probably why he talks so much when she's not around.'
"That he is." The construction worker smiled. "But, highly intelligent and with such a fascinating mind, it really wouldn't matter if he looked like Quazimoto, now would it?"
Dionica was fuming inside. She hated discussing Ezra as if he wasn't sitting right beside her but she'd be damned if she was going to sit here submissively and let this...woman...belittle the man she loved. How the hell could Maude look at her son and not see what a special man she'd raised?
She smiled at Ezra adding, "It's amazing what you can learn just by listening."
'That's two.' Vin placed another mark on his imaginary blackboard.
Maude silently appraised the young woman who seemed to have captured her son's eye. 'At least this one seems to have a backbone.' Hiding her amusement by sipping her drink, Maude studied her young adversary.
Maude had spent her life reading people. Her finances, depended on her ability to immediately size up a person's strengths and weaknesses determining the best way to play to their personality and to use their vulnerability to her advantage.
She knew men would easily underestimate Dionica Ryan. One look and they would immediately be taken with the petite woman's classic beauty, completely oblivious of her inner strength and in business of any kind that would be their downfall.
There was an iron will in her to match Maude's, Ezra's or even Chris Larabee's, and that iron was tempered by compassion, a quick mind and a tender heart.
Ezra talked to her about everything huh?' Seeing the way her son looked at this woman, Maude could believe he'd done just that. She truly doubted Ezra had given Dionica every last detail of his sordid past but it was to her credit that with what she did know, she hadn't fled like a cat from a bath.
Maude repressed a smile. Unlike the others, this was not a woman who would be easily intimidated or bought off.
Hoping to alleviate the tension, which now surrounded the table, the other women followed her lead, questioning Maude about her travels, when Mary turned the conversation to the older woman's cruise through the Greek Isles.
Looking as if he wanted nothing more than for the earth to open up and swallow him, Ezra sat silently as his mother captivated her audience with tales of places she'd been and people she'd met, managing to add several disparaging remarks about her son's lack of attentiveness, having refused her invitations to join her.
Wrapping Dionica's small hand in his, giving her an apologetic smile, the gambler was suprised to discover she seemed completely undaunted by the irrepressible Maude Standish. The young woman was actually smiling.
"Ezra." His name drew his stunned attention back to his mother. "Ezra you really must accompany me to England. Jonathan is returning from Japan in a few days and there's to be a grand celebration. His niece will require an escort and while you may not find her as attractive as," she cast a quick tight lipped glance at the construction worker, "Miss Ryan I'm sure you'll find her money a sufficent inducement!" She seemed to study Nica for a moment before adding slyly, "Actually it would be in Dionica's best interest because you would have the best of both worlds. Millicent's money and her bed. What more could a man ask for to keep him happy?" She waved a well manicured hand in the air. "And if he's happy, he keeps his lover happy."
The air around the table sizzled with tension as Ezra slowly pushed back his chair and rose to his feet. With deliberate steps, he circled the table to stand beside his mother, his emerald eyes flashing angry green fire. Placing one hand flat on the table, the other gripping the back of Maude's chair, he leaned in close and spoke in her ear, his words audible only to Maude.
"I'm going to say this only once Mother, so you better listen closely. You may not like her or approve of her but you will at least appear to show Dionica respect! If you're incapable of this, you may leave now."
Repressing the smile that played on her lips, Maude waited until Ezra had returned to his seat before turning her attention to the woman at his side. "I apologize if I offended anyone but if women were to be perfectly honest most would tell you they wouldn't mind being the other woman if it meant living a life of luxury and having the attentions of a extraordinarily handsome man."
"And how many times have you been the other woman?" Dionica's asked, her tone sugary sweet. The question caused gasps of disbelieve and stifled snickers from the others around the table with Vin mentally adding another chalk mark. "I can't believe, Mrs. Standish, a woman of your caliber would ever agree to play second fiddle to anyone."
His hazel eyes on Maude, Larabee listened to the verbal battle, unable to perceive the game Ezra's mother was playing but certain that's exactly what it was...a game. She got off on playing mind games with her son. He'd dealt with Maude enough to know the woman hadn't just shown up for no reason. She wanted something...she always wanted something...but he didn't believe for a minute this was another attempt to persuade Ezra back into his old way of life.
"Mrs. Standish did you see the necklace Ezra had made for Nica." Like Mary had earlier, Casey attempted to direct the conversation in a more neutral direction.
Dionica gently slid her hand behind the small object hanging from the delicate silver chain around her neck, displaying it for everyone's inspection. The tiny sand filled silver hourglass was delicately made. Only Ezra knew of the initials E and D hidden among the tiny laser carved vines and flower petals engraved in the silver.
Maude gave it a perfunctory glance. "It's very...unusual...Simple but somehow...suitable."
Ezra's eyes narrowed certain there was an implied insult in his mother's rather snide statement. If she were implying it was suitable because Dionica was an unusual woman she was absolutely correct. If on the other hand, she was insinuating it was suitable because the woman beside him was simple...Was his mother was in for the biggest surprise of her life.
As if reading his mind, Ezra's mother gave him an expression of exasperation. "For heaven's sake, Ezra, there was no insult implyed! Where did you ever come by such a suspicious nature?" As the mother and son glared at each other across the table, the other six men all choked on their drinks finding the question hilarious.
"I myself perfer more elegant pieces...such as Miss Garth is wearing." Maude commented drawing everyone's attention to the gold locket with the silver filigree rose which hung as it always did, in the hollow of Lucy's throat. "A family heirloom, my dear?"
"You might say that." Lucy mumbled, embarrassed to be targeted by the older woman. She glanced at Ezra, giving him a small secret smile. He was the only other person to know what was engraved inside the antique necklace. "I'm sure Nica's necklace is just as special to her."
"It's my time in a bottle. To me each of the grains of sand will always represent a special moment spent with Ezra." Ignoring his mother's apparent look of disapproval at the open display of affection, she placed a tender kiss on the gambler's cheek adding as the gambler smiled at her, "And I always loved that old song."
Vin glanced at Larabee as Maude once again dominated the conversation telling the others about Ezra's priviledged childhood. Both men wanted to call the woman on what they knew to be nothing more than a fairy tale from her fertile imagination.
"I'll bet you were an adorable child Ezra." Celia smiled as the gambler attempted not to squirm uncomfortably as his mother told of how she had to smooth things over with his tutor, when at the age of seven he'd argued that the Three Musketeers couldn't possibly beat all the cardinal's soldiers. In actuality, one of Maude's many hangers on had tried to convince the poker savy youngster, his three jacks were enough to beat Ezra's Royal flush.
"Think Ezra could use some help." Wilmington muttered digging in his pocket for change as he pushed away from the table.
*******
Tanner watched as Buck crossed the crowded bar and spoke quietly to a young woman who was about to put change in the juke box. Turning on his charm, smiling and nodding agreement, the pilot allowed himself a quick glance of admiration as she returned to her friends. Buck wouldn't disrespect Molly by securing the woman's phone number but Vin had no doubt his friend had committed the woman to memory...for future reference.
Turning back to the music, Wilmington dropped a handful of coins into the machine and searching the play list, he punched in several numbers. Moving back to the table he took Molly's hand and steered her toward the dance floor as the music started.
"Wanna take a spin with me?" Vin rose and helped Lucy to her feet. "I think they're playin' your song." He muttered nudging the gambler slightly as he passed Ezra's chair, the first notes of Tracy Byrd's Keeper of the Stars filling the air.
"I do believe you're correct Mr. Tanner." Ezra grinned, leading Dionica onto the dance floor. If ever a song was written for Dionica and himself or especially Vin and Lucy for that matter, it was indeed the first song Buck had knowingly punched up.
*******
With a whispered word to Mary, Chris moved to Maude's side. "Like ta have a word with you Maude."
"Perhaps later Mr. Larabee. I-"
"That wasn't a request." Taking her arm in a strong grip, Chris pulled the woman from the chair and steered her through the crowd to a small table currently unoccupied, signalling Inez for two drinks.
*******
"Looks like somebody's goin' ta the woodshed." Buck chuckled, watching his old friend manuvear through the crowded bar with Maude in tow.
Glancing to the small table now occupied by the rugged blond and well dressed woman, the redhead grinned up at Buck. "Wonder which one will get the worst of the beatin'?"
*******
"Alright Mr. Larabee, what is so imperative it couldn't wait for a more appropriate time?" Maude questioned when Inez had delivered their drinks and departed.
"I think this is exactly the appropriate time." Larabee lit a cheroot, taking time to study the woman, still trying to discern the true reason for her visit. "Don't do this to him Maude."
She arched a perfectly formed eyebrow. "And what, pray tell is it you wish me not to do and to whom am I not to do it?"
"Don't make Ezra choose between you and Nica." A knowing smile quirked his lips as he added. "You'll lose."
"I never lose Mr. Larabee...Haven't you learned that by now?" She smiled coyly. "I always achieve what I set out to do."
"And just what is it you've set out to do this time?" Chris leaned closer, his voice low and angry. "Teach him another lesson? Or break his heart?"
"The same as always Mr. Larabee." Maude sipped her drink. "I'm here to protect my darlin' baby boy."
The Hoosier snorted in disbelief. "Protect him from what?" Who the hell did she think she was kidding? Hell, they hadn't even been able to find her when they thought Tally had killed Ezra and Larabee fully believed the only reason she'd wanted to take her son home with her after he was found was so she would have control of the gambler's considerable assets. "From us?...From Nica?...Just what the hell does Ezra need protection from?" His eyes gleamed as he growled. "Other than you?"
Maude's blue eyes flashed. "I am well aware Mr. Larabee that you and," she nodded towards the other table, "your associates think my skills as a mother are sorely lacking." She brought her gaze back around to meet his glare unwaveringly. "Contrary to popular opinion, I know everything about my son.
Tell me Mr. Larabee...Do you know where Ezra is every third Saturday night of the month?" She hesitated only long enough to see the negative answer in his eyes. "I do...He's at the local dirt track driving a little black bomber he keeps stored in a garage nearby....He races under the name of Christopher Sanchez...and when he wins, which is more often than not, he donates the monetary prize to the Humane Society. He rock climbs, skydives and goes white water rafting back east on the New River, where I also might add he base jumped on Bridge Day.
On his birthday five years ago he went bungee jumping in Hawaii. If it's something that puts his fool neck at risk he has to try it at least once. When he was twenty three he passed the bar exam just to see if he could and with exceptionally high marks I might add. I know he loves chili cheese dogs, barbecue potato chips, fried green tomatoes and Barg's root beer. And I also know that when he goes to see her in California he'll stay an extra day to go surfing...Something he learned to do a few years ago...You," she stared at the man who was stunned into silence, "who claim to know my son didn't know any of those things did you?"
She was right. Vin might have known a couple of items on the small list she'd just recited but Ezra always appeared so cultured and sophisticated none of them would ever imagine the suave southerner surfing, dirt racing or having a craving for chili cheese dogs.
Certain given enough time Larabee would question how it was a woman who had rarely seen her son since he'd struck out on his own as a teenager knew how that same man spent his Saturdays or what he'd done on his twenty third birthday. She wasn't unprepared to answer but didn't feel the need to defend her actions to this man, despite his obvious concern for her son's well being. Maude turned her attention back to the couple on the dance floor.
She didn't want to explain that deeply worried about her son she had always used her street contacts to keep her informed of his situation. Marrying the first of her wealthy husbands Maude had immediately hired a detective firm who continued to check on Ezra every few months sending her a detailed report.
"He looks like his father."
The quiet words so full of love pulled Larabee from his introspection. It seemed Maude was just as complex as her son and he wasn't prepared for the remark which came out of the blue.
"Why doesn't he ever talk about his father?" It was none of his business and Chris wouldn't be surprised or push her if Maude chose not to answer.
She looked down and her soft voice was full of sorrow. "His father died before Ezra was born...Killed in the line of duty."
"In the military?"
Maude raised her eyes to look the team leader in the face. "No Mr. Larabee. Ezra's father was a police detective."
*******
"Quit starin'!" Casey admonished JD but her words were directed at all the men seated at the table.
"What do ya think they're talkin' about?" The young hacker again glanced nervously toward the table occupied by Maude and Chris.
"I would hazard a guess that Brother Chris is showing Maude the error of her ways." Josiah sighed. In reality, the ex-FBI agent thought from Chris' expression, Larabee looked as if he'd just swallowed a scorpion.
"Oughta be instructin' that witch on parenthood." Nathan shook his head in disgust. "Course it's a little late for that now." The physician and gambler had more than their share of problems but the more Nate got to know the con man the more he'd grown to care about him and having dealt with Maude on several different occasions, the doctor understood to a greater degree, the southerner's reluctance to trust people.
"Ain't none of our concern what they're talkin' 'bout." Vin stated adamently, draping his arm around Lucy's shoulders as he dropped into the chair beside her. "But she's Ezra's ma and we oughta show our respect for him by showin' her respect."
The softly drawled speech received smiles from Lucy and the other women and nods of agreement from Tanner's teammates. The Texan didn't say much but what he did say always made sense.
*******
"A c-c-cop?" The shock was evident in Larabee's stuttered voice. He didn't know what stunned him more, the fact that Ezra's father was a police officer or that he could find no sign of deceit in Maude's expression. His own skepticism, that she was simply trying to con him, faded. There was no denying the love she felt for Ezra's father and for the first time Chris could see that same soft expression in her blue eyes as she gazed at her son.
'My God...For once she's actually telling the truth!' raced through his mind as her soft words brought him back to reality.
"I met Ezra's father while I was running a con in Mobile...He'd just made detective grade and was assigned to the city's Bunco unit. He pulled me in for questioning...At first I thought it was simply inexperience on his part or perhaps he was attempting to exert his authority..." Her features softened even more with the sad wry smile that touched her lips. "I found out later it was his way of warning me off before he was forced to do the unpleasent part of his job...Oh he was a handsome devil with laughing green eyes, and a mischievious smile..." She nodded toward her son. "Ezra looks just like him. Sometimes it hurts so much to see his father in him..." She trailed off for a moment. "He was so full of life...That man could charm the Gods out of their last drop of Ambrosia."
"Sounds like Ezra is just like him." Larabee smiled, his interest piqued and hoping not to discourage her.
"Alas he was cursed with an irrefutable sense of honesty or we could have made a fortune. We were married on the sixth month anniversary of the first time he questioned me. A tribute, I'm sure, to his sense of humor." She seemed to sense the skepticism that once again arose in Chris and was visible on his face. "Yes Mr. Larabee, we were married. Contrary to what he believes, Ezra's not a bastard no matter what his birth certificate says.
As hard as it may be to comprehend, I married a practically penniless police officer, and spent the two happiest years of my life living in a tiny house on a quiet tree lined suburban street. He was so thrilled when we found out I was expecting. He said I could choose any name I wanted if it was a daughter but he insisted if it was a son he be named Ezra after Michael's own father. Michael had been transferred to Vice by then and when I was seven months pregnant he was shot and killed in some back alley by a sixteen-year- old junkie he was only trying to help." Her voice caught as she trailed off again.
"I'm sorry Maude. I-"
"I don't want your sympathy Christopher...It happened a long time ago and the only reason I'm telling you any of this now is so you'll understand the reasoning behind what you consider my callous disregard of Ezra's feelings." Her voice had again taken on a hint of steel. "I was so...angry...I was angry at that damn junkie for killing him and I was angry at Michael for dying. I was angry with the police department for putting him in that position! I was angry I was a widow and angry that I was going to be a single parent. Immediately after his funeral I packed and left town. True I wasn't exactly thinking straight...I had no place to go, no friends...not the kind I could turn to anyway. Most of Michael's friends had made no bones about the fact they didn't think I was good enough for him and I didn't want or need their pity.
I ended up in some little hick town and went into labor in a county hospital in eastern Georgia." She shrugged. "To this day I don't remember how I got there. When I gave birth the nurse asked the name of the father and when I didn't answer she left that line blank assuming I was unmarried and Standish was my maiden name."
Blinking rapidly to dispell the tears that had filled her eyes, brought about by memories she had fought so long to keep buried, Maude fell silent watching the other patrons while the barmaid delivered another round from Inez.
As the waitress moved away, Maude focused again on Chris, her voice carrying a hard edge. "You see why I wasn't pleased when Ezra joined your team? I know what his job in your...company...actually entails. You don't think for a minute I believed that ridiculois story about Beta testing did you? I can recognize one of Ezra's cover stories the minute he opens his mouth." She smiled ruefully. "It also helps to have powerful friends in higher places than the federal courthouse Christopher...Friends who only confirmed my suspicions about this...elite team of yours."
Larabee's hazel eyes widened slightly than narrowed as he remained silent, unwilling to take the chance she was bluffing.
"I won't watch my son die at the hands of some lunatic like his father did. I can't! Not if it's within my power to prevent it." She played with the stem of her martini glass, struggling to regain control of her emotions. "You may disagree with my methods but I've raised my son to be self reliant...to never have to worry about someone coming to his rescue. Until he met you I didn't worry about him ever needing anyone's help. Now..." She shook her head. "My son deserves the best Mr. Larabee and I will employee every resource at my disposal to see that's exactly what he gets. You asked what I'm protecting him from?...From the hurt I know he will experience when people he cares about leave him...And no matter what they say they always do, whether by choice or by fate...You of all people should understand that."
"Of course I do," Larabee leaned close his voice pitched low. "But you probably know as well as I do that never again being with someone you love is worse than being dead..." He sat back, calmly withdrawing and lighting another cheroot, giving himself time to contemplate his best argument. "I gotta admit Maude, you taught him well, perhaps too well on some points but that's neither here nor there. Tell me honestly, if you'd known ahead of time what was going to happen, knowing the pain you were going to feel afterwards, would you have given up the time you had with Ezra's father?...I know I wouldn't! I'd never give up one second I shared with Sarah and Adam."
It was several long minutes before Maude raised her eyes to meet his, a small smile on her lips as happy memories played out in her mind. "No, I wouldn't."
"Then why, as much as you love him," Chris would never again doubt how much she truly loved Ezra, "would you deny your son that same chance at happiness?"
"You're a very persuasive man Mr. Larabee." Maude sighed. "I can understand why Ezra agreed to join your...crusade."
As she started to rise, Chris caught her arm delaying her departure. "Then let me try to persuade you of one other thing...Tell Ezra about his father...Let him know the man you knew."
"I'll consider it." She agreed, giving his hand a light pat. "Now I think we should return before Mary starts to believe you have deserted her." She hesitated, a blush tinging her cheeks. "I....Thank you...for giving him the family he deserves."
"Can I ask you one more question?" Chris took her arm, guiding her back toward the others.
"Of course you can." She smiled slyly. "You do realize I won't guarantee to answer it."
'Typical Standish answer.' Chris couldn't help but smile in return. "What's the 'P' in his name stand for?"
She laughed softly, the twinkle returning to her eyes. "Absolutely anything he wants it to stand for."
*******
Excusing herself, Dionica slipped from the table and hurried out the door into the lobby, hoping to catch Ezra's mother before the woman departed.
"Mrs. Standish?"
The older woman paused and turned to face the construction worker, her expression wary.
"I know you're probably tired but I'd appreciate a moment of your time." Dionica hesitated, suddenly uncertain she was doing the right thing.
The atmosphere at the table had been much more relaxed upon Chris and Maude's return. Everyone seemed to enjoy and take in stride the verbal sparring between Ezra and his mother, sparring that now held a friendly tone. The woman had even complimented the varied choices of birthday presents the team presented to Nica without making the comments sound snide or patronizing.
Taking a deep breath, Dionica rushed onward before her courage failed or she simply changed her mind. "Mrs. Standish I love your son. I want to spend the rest of my life with him whether as his wife, his lover or his friend." She smiled shyly. "I hope it's as all three. However, if this relationship is destined to be nothing more than friends so be it but I don't ever intend to ever let anything destroy what we build together...and that includes you. If you think you can tempt Ezra away with bait of Milly and her money or princess so and so or lady whoever, well I'm putting you on notice here and now...I'll fight you tooth and nail.
I love Ezra, Mrs. Standish...He's everything I've ever wanted in a man and more. I love him and I want to make him happy for the rest of his life. I hope you can be included in that happiness but if you aren't...well I feel sorry for you. You raised a remarkable man but you've missed out on alot. I hate to think of all the times you could have shared his life...and didn't. I'm sure you had your reasons and they aren't for me to question but do know this...Come hell or high water, I'm in your son's life to stay so you better accept that and get used to seeing a lot of me cause I ain't gonna be scared away. Not by you...or anyone!"
She hesitated giving Maude a small smile. "I sincerely hope we can be friends Mrs. Standish because I certainly don't want you for an enemy...But I think it's only fair to warn you...I can be a formidable opponent as well."
Dionica stood her ground as Maude stepped closer. Placing a gentle hand against Dionica's cheek, the older woman smiled, her blue eyes shining. "Ezra's a very special person with so much love to give. Enjoy the time you have together. Make the most of everything...the laughter, the arguments and the love. Commit every precious moment to memory and don't ever look back with regret." She lightly touched the necklace. "Like the grains of sand in your hourglass, time slips away all too soon."
Tears escaped sliding down the construction worker's cheeks as Maude moved once more for the exit to the street, not bothering to look back as she warned. "Take care of my darlin' boy or I promise you...you'll answer to me."
*******
"Hey Nica, ya forgot one." JD passed the petite woman the small box as everyone set about gathering up the gifts and left over cake to depart. It had been an enjoyable evening and they were all looking forward to the continuing celebration the next day at Larabee's.
Dionica turned the small elegantly wrapped box over in her hand. "There's no tag."
"So open it. Maybe it's inside." Mary urged as the others stopped what they were doing to watch.
Dionica quickly ripped away the paper and lifted the lid releasing a stunned gasp as she carefully withdrew the ornate antique silver and ivory hair combs. Pulling free the expensive parchment stationary she read the enclosed note aloud.
Dionica,
I couldn't help thinking how lovely these would look with your dark hair and you must admit my dear, they're much more appropriate for the theatre than a hard hat.
Happy Birthday
Maude Standish.
Chris began to chuckle as the others stared at each other in confusion. Mentally replaying the conversation in his mind, Larabee finally discovered the answers he'd been searching for since Maude stepped up to the table.
'My son deserves the best Mr. Larabee and I will employee every resource at my disposal to see that's exactly what he gets.'
His laughter grew as he realized Maude probably knew more about Dionica Ryan, then Nica knew about herself. Maude hadn't come to Fours Corners to ruin the birthday celebration Ezra had planned but instead to see for herself the woman her son had chosen to love. She had come to test both her son and the woman he loved. To test their feelings for each other. A test Chris was certain they had passed. Maude had needed to satisfy her need to be certain Ezra had indeed found the best.
Ezra was right. Maude was indeed a remarkable woman.
*******
Epilogue: One week later.
The penthouse was quiet. Ezra had seen Nica off at the airport and now, his home was empty as he strolled through it barefooted, Scoundrel at his heels. In his hands he carried a box Henry had signed for and delivered to his door.
Making himself comfortable on the sofa, he opened the flaps and withdrew the items from within: a small audio player and a thick photo album. He frowned as he pushed the play button and settled the recorder on the table beside the drink he'd poured himself.
Lifting the album to his lap, he opened the cover to stare at a likeness of himself. His eyes filled with tears as his mother's soft voice drifted from the player. "His name was Michael Standish.... my husband, my lover, my friend... and your father......"
THE END
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Chris opened his mouth with this idea after my sister (The Magnificent Webmaster) gave me a hourglass necklace from Precious Moments.