Lila's Choice

Chapter 18

The next day I wake up feeling much better; the image from the previous day's nightmare now nothing more than a fading memory that I am all too happy to forget. Before I even get out of bed, I hear the phone ring and hurry to answer it. "Hello darling," I greet Thad.

"Hello yourself," he answers back. "I didn't wake you, did I?"

"No, I was just about to take my shower. But I do like that your voice was the last thing I heard before going to sleep and the first upon waking. I could get used to that," I respond playfully.

"So could I. But I won't keep you long so you can get ready. I just want to make sure that you still want me to come over tonight."

"Absolutely. You can come whenever you're ready," I inform him. "The staff is expecting you and I'm sure Elias and Sabrina will be happy to see you. They can keep you occupied for a bit while you wait. And of course, you can always make yourself comfortable in my room."

"Alright. I wouldn't mind spending some time with the kids. They're really great."

We say our goodbyes and I waste no time showering and getting dressed. The sooner I get through tonight, the sooner I can come home to Thad. I am just finishing up when Sabrina comes into the room.

"Hey mommy. Getting ready for work? You look pretty. I like your dress."

"Thank you. Thad will be coming by tonight," I inform her. "You and your brother can spend some time with him, but you must remember to keep up appearances. That means sleeping upstairs and heading to your rooms for bed no later than 10 o'clock. Understood?"

"Oh, alright. But only because I really like Thad. I'll be happy once he knows about us and we don't have to pretend anymore."

"If all goes well, it will only be a matter of time. Now if you'll excuse me, I must be going before I'm late."

On the way out, I look for Jessica but am unable to find her. Instead, I leave instructions with Nicholas. He and Jessica are expected to prepare the house for Thad's visit. Between the two of them, they are tasked with buying groceries, preparing a meal for Thad and bringing some of my things upstairs so that the room is not suspiciously bare.

Nicholas has never been bold enough to answer back, but he has never appreciated having to take orders from me either. His disdain permeates the air, but I have no time to deal with him at this moment. I'm confident that without me here to supervise his every move, Nicholas will pawn everything off to Jessica. I give him no sign of my suspicion and continue out the door to the waiting car.

Once in the car, I make a phone call. "Hi Gwen, can you do me a favor?" I ask when she answers.

"Sure what's up?"

"I know that you are busy working on the party plans, but do you think you can work from the house tonight? I left work for Nicholas and Jessica and I want to make sure it gets done before Thad arrives."

"So you want me to babysit the help?" she asks with a laugh. "Sure, no problem. I could use Sabrina's help anyway. What are they supposed to be doing?"

I go over the details with her. "I wasn't able to find Jessica before I left, so I don't want Nicholas trying to pass the buck to her for everything. There is no way she'll be able to do it all by herself in time."

"Don't worry about it. I've got it under control," she assures me.

Shortly after I hang up with Gwen, Nigel pulls up in front of the club. Julian is waiting for me and jogs over to open the car door before Nigel has a chance to.