Unraveled AUTHOR: Shirley E-mail: sgoates2607@charter.net RATING: PG-13 (Language) DATE POSTED: May 26, 2003 CONTEXT: This is a sequel to my “A Work in Progress” posted on April 22, 2003. Much of the story was penned before “Sensitive Jackals” and “All the Rage”. Excerpts and ideas have been shamelessly lifted from these episodes for which I credit the writers David Hollander, Nick Santora and Rick Eid as well as from “Burton and Ernie” for which I credit writers David Hollander and Michael R. Perry. Faithful viewers of The Guardian will realize that I have strayed somewhat from the storylines set out by these writers in these episodes. DISCLAIMER: Some of the characters portrayed herein have been taken directly from The Guardian – a CBS TV Series. Others are strictly figments of my imagination. The resemblance to any person(s) living or dead is purely coincidental. Any similarity of events, dates, or characters or the portrayal of events, dates or characters depicted in any FanFic previously posted by other authors is totally unintentional. This is a work of FICTION. ~~~~~~ Nick stepped off the elevator at LSP and made a bee-line for his office. ”Nick.” He slowed down and turned to see Lulu marching towards him. “Yeah?” he queried. She followed him into his office where he placed his briefcase on the desk and waited for her to continue. “Uh, hi…” she smiled. “I mean, I…” she stammered, then reached out and quietly closed the door. “I, uh… I wanted to invite you to dinner tonight. You know, I could cook and…” “Dinner.” He pondered this a moment. “Yeah, dinner. You know, just the two of us.” “Yeah.” He looked at the floor then back at Lulu. “Okay. Sure.” “Okay,” she flashed him a big smile. “Well, I, uh… I guess I’d better get back to work. Say around 7:00?” “Yeah,” he said, a little reluctant to seem too excited. She opened the door and slipped out, pulling it closed behind her. He sat down, heavily, in his chair and leaned back. Unconsciously, he nibbled at his bottom lip. His phone rang—interoffice call. He picked it up. “Yeah?” “Nick, I’d like to see you in my office, now!” Nick stared at the receiver as the connection was abruptly severed. He wondered who had put the burr under Alvin’s saddle. Heaving a sigh, he started for his office. Passing Laurie as she emerged from Alvin’s office, he said, “Laurie.” She deliberately averted her eyes, ignoring his greeting. He stopped, struck dumb by her coldness, and watched as she got on the elevator. Shaking his head, he entered the office. “What’s up with Laurie?” He put his hands in his pockets. “Close the door, Nick. Have a seat.” “That’s okay,” he said, stubbornly. Sternly, Alvin repeated his command, “I said, have a seat.” “Okay. Okay.” Nick eased the door closed then sat down, warily, and waited. After a weighty pause, Alvin spoke, “Why do you insist on breaking the rules, Mr. Fallin?” Nick shrugged, having no idea what he was talking about. Alvin just glared at him. Finally, he asked, “What are you talking about, Alvin?” “Laurie got a call from Mr. Everett this morning.” “Okay,” Nick answered, unsure of his point. “You know it’s a direct violation to leave a child in the custody of a foster parent until it has been cleared by the court.” “Oh, that. Well, it was in the middle of the night…” Alvin interrupted, standing abruptly and slamming his fist on the desk. “I don’t care when the hell it was, Mr. Fallin. Rules are rules. I’m damn sick and tired of you thinking you can just come in here and do whatever the hell you want.” Alvin’s voice had gotten louder and louder. “I don’t see the problem,” Nick interjected, getting angrier by the minute. “You know Judge Damsen’s gonna rule for the Everetts so what’s the big fucking deal.” Lulu had been talking to another lawyer in the bullpen. They looked at each other then in the direction of the boss’ office, where clearly Alvin and Nick were having a heated misunderstanding. Lulu noticed others had also stopped what they were doing to listen. “Rules, Mr. Fallin! Rules! Every time you screw up, it’s another black mark on this clinic. And that, my friend, makes it harder to get the funding that we need to stay alive.” “Well, I don’t have to sit here and take this crap!” He jumped up, threw the door open and stormed out, oblivious of the office staff—all standing around, staring with their mouths agape. He brushed past Lulu and went immediately to his office where he gathered up his briefcase then stalked to the elevator. Once in the elevator, he noticed Lulu staring at him, stunned by his outburst. He bowed his head as the doors closed. ~/~/~/~/~ Nick was still fuming when he walked into his office at Fallin & Fallin. He slammed his briefcase down on his desk and walked to the window, rubbing the back of his head and neck. Why had he let Alvin get to him? Gretchen knocked then opened the door a crack and peered in. “Mr. Fallin, I’m sorry to bother you.” He turned from the window and said, impatiently, “What is it, Gretchen?” She blanched, noticeably, but continued. “There’s a man here to see your father and… and he’s not in right now.” “Well, reschedule his appointment,” he said, testily. “But…” she said, somewhat cowed by Nick’s show of attitude. “Well... what is it?” Nick said, impatiently. “He didn’t have an appointment and… he insists on seeing someone.” “Where is my father?” This was getting a little old. “The school called. Something about Shannon…” “Shannon?” He was suddenly reminded that his father had become Shannon’s foster parent. “Okay, okay. Send him in.” He sat down in his chair to wait. He was not only up to his ass in LSP work but now he had to cover for his dad, too. Gretchen appeared in the doorway with a man who looked to be in his early 50s. She introduced him. “Karl Hansen, this is Nicholas Fallin.” Nick stood and walked around his desk, extending his hand. “Mr. Hansen. Please, have a seat. Thanks, Gretchen.” She pulled the door closed as she backed out of the room. Nick sat and leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepled in front of him. “What can I do for you, Mr. Hansen?” “I’ll get right to the point, Mr. Fallin. Burton has been after our business for a very long time. Now that I’m finally ready to make a move, I can’t seem to get in touch with him.” “Perhaps I can help you. You wanna tell me about it?” “Well…” he hesitated. “Fine.” Nick stood abruptly and started for the door. “If you leave your number, I’ll have Burton call you.” “Are you his son?” Mr. Hansen remained seated. “That’s right.” “I guess it’d be all right. To let you handle it, I mean… if your firm still wants our business.” Nick’s brow furrowed slightly. He was just as capable as his father and he really took offense when clients assumed he was an underling instead of a full partner. He returned to his chair and reached for a pad to make notes as Mr. Hansen proceeded to tell him about his company and his future plans for expansion. ~/~/~/~/~ “Oh, hi, Nick.” Lulu met him at the door wearing a pair of black jeans and a black and white top. She gave him a peck on the cheek. “Hi,” he said, meekly. This was the first time he’d been in her home, well… since that time when he had kissed her for the first time, right here in this room. But… that was before she had married Brian. So much had changed since then. “Come with me.” She closed the door and he followed her to the kitchen. “You wanna take your jacket off?” “Sure.” He pulled his coat off and folded it across the sofa, loosening his tie, as they passed through the living room. He noticed that Lulu had set a romantic table in the dining room. She dipped a spoon into a skillet which was warming on the stove and, holding her hand under it, she steered it to his mouth. “Here, have a taste.” He swallowed and licked his lips. “Well?” she asked. “Good.” He smiled and took her in his arms, kissing her tenderly on the lips. “Hmm. That was good, too.” “It was,” she said, dreamily. “Help yourself to something to drink in the fridge while I finish up.” She playfully twisted out of his grasp, planting a kiss on the tip of his nose. Lulu had tried for days to get up the nerve to ask Nick over for dinner. Now that she had him all to herself, she wasn’t about to spoil it by asking him about his earlier confrontation with Alvin, though she was dying to know. Throughout dinner, Nick had been especially quiet. She chalked it up to workload and his usual penchant for brevity. After the dishes were cleared away, she boldly took him by the hand and led him upstairs to her bedroom where, earlier, she had lit a cluster of candles on the dresser and mantel. “Well, that was really fun. I haven’t cooked for someone in a long time.” “Yeah, it was great.” She walked to the dresser and turned the CD player on to a selection of smooth jazz. She sidled up to Nick. “And it was great that we could still talk like friends, you know… but different. Isn’t this nice?” She rubbed his arms. “Yeah, it’s nice.” She took his head in her hands and pulled his mouth to hers, kissing him tenderly. Sensing that something was wrong, she pulled away and asked, “What? What is it?” “Well, it… This is the bed you shared with Brian, right?” He glanced uneasily at the bed. “Yeah. So?” She could see he was uncomfortable. “I have a past, Nick, just like you do.” “Yeah, yeah, I know.” “I don’t get it. We can have sex in a bathroom or the meeting room at work but when I bring you into my home, and it’s just you and me…” “Yeah, I-I… I’m very tired. I should probably go home.” “Okay,” she said, disappointed. “I’m sorry. Thanks for dinner.” He kissed her lightly. “Thank you.” “Okay. See ya.” “See ya.” He left her standing in the bedroom wondering what had just happened. ~/~/~/~/~ Nick knocked on Burton’s office door, then entered. His father was huddled together with Shannon, apparently going over her homework. Burton looked up. “Hey.” “Oh, I didn’t know you were busy.” Nick turned to leave. “I’ll come back.” Burton pushed back his chair and stood. “What is it, son?” Nick halted at the door and looked back over his shoulder. “It’s nothing.” He gave Shannon a piercing look then opened the door and was gone. Burton stood looking at the door for a long moment, then turned to Shannon and said, “Go ahead and finish that, honey. I’ll be back in a minute.” In the hallway, Burton found Nick talking with Jake. He waited. ”Okay, Jake. This looks good. Go ahead and call Medders and set up the appointment for Wednesday, next week.” Nick handed Jake the document he had been reviewing. “Will do. Any special time?” Jake asked. “Before 11:00. Thanks, Jake.” He started to walk away. “Nicholas.” Nick stopped and slowly turned to face his dad. Jake disappeared into his office and shut the door. “Whadaya want?” Nick asked, tersely. “We need to talk.” He headed for Nick’s office, expecting Nick to follow. Nick didn’t budge. Burton opened the door, then turned to find his son still standing in the hallway. “Nicholas,” he said, authoritatively. Nick glared at his father, shook his head, then walked past him and into his office. He went immediately to the window where he stood staring out at nothing. He ran his hand down the back of his head then put his hands on his hips—his back to his father. “What the hell has gotten into you, Nicholas?” Burton asked, puzzled by Nick’s attitude of late. “Whadaya mean?” Nick asked, still facing the window. With a heavy sigh, Burton sat down in a chair. Nick turned to face his dad. “I could ask you the same thing?” Burton took another deep breath and then said, calmly, under his breath, “Well… this isn’t getting us anywhere.” He ran his hand over the top of his head, smoothing the few wisps of hair he had left. “What’d you wanna see me about?” Nick walked over to his chair and sat down, leaning back. With one elbow on the armrest, he rested his chin on his thumb, pressing his fingers to his lips. Finally he spoke, softly, as if to a child, “You know, Dad… your work has fallen off around here.” “Is that what you think?” Burton eyed him with a furrowed brow. “Yeah.” “So, does that mean you’re ready to take over as Managing Partner?” “I may have to if you don’t get your head back into this firm.” “It’s Shannon, isn’t it?” “What?” He squirmed in his seat. “No. Why do you say that?” “She says you look down on her.” Nick looked away. He was wary of Shannon and her motives. After all, both her mother and grandmother had been ‘players’. “She’s just a kid, son. She needs a family.” “Right. Right.” He cleared his throat and reached for a file. “You know Karl Hansen?” “Yeah, why?” “He came by the office looking for you the other day. Said he’d been trying to get in touch with you for weeks.” “Oh, right. Yeah.” He had been meaning to return those phones calls, but he had been preoccupied with getting Shannon settled in at home and at her new school. Nick tried to soften his tone. “This is what I’m talking about, Dad.” The Firm had always been first priority with Burton. But lately, Nick had really noticed a change. He hated to see his father become a doddering old fool. “He wants our Firm… to take over as lead counsel. It means a million dollar plus annual retainer for us. If I hadn’t been here, he would have walked.” “I think Shannon’s getting settled now, son, so things should get back to normal,” Burton said, trying to be conciliatory. “Look, Dad…” He shoved his chair back and stood up, walking back to the window. “Why don’t you just ship her off to boarding school… like you did me?” “Ooh…” Burton pondered Nick’s remark for a second. “I see what this is about.” “Yeah, it’s about you not pulling your weight.” Nick ran his hand down the back of his head. “Okay. And what about… what about your Community Service obligation… and the time it takes ‘you’ away from the Firm? Huh? All the times I’ve covered for you because you were late or not prepared. What about that?” Nick turned and glared at his father. He glanced down at his watch. “Listen… I have to get to the courthouse.” He took his briefcase from his credenza and began stuffing it with papers. With a last look at his father, he yanked the door open, letting it bang against the wall, and was gone. Burton leaned forward, his elbows on his knees, and rested his head in his hands. ~/~/~/~/~ “Nick. Why so quiet?” Lulu had tried all evening to get him out of his somber mood. He picked at his salad and finally set his fork down, wiping his mouth with the napkin. “Whadaya wanna talk about?” He took a sip from his glass of water. “Well… Oh, I know.” Her face lit up as she thought of something. “There’s a new play opening at the Byham on Saturday.” He moaned and shook his head. “What? You don’t wanna go?” Disappointment swept her smile away. “I’m beginning to think you don’t like doing anything I like to do.” He looked up at her with a sly grin. “I think there’s one thing we like to do together.” She half-laughed and took a sip of her wine. Sex with Nick was incredible but you didn’t build a lasting relationship just on that alone. The waiter cleared away their salads and then brought their entrees. At least tonight they were dining at a real restaurant instead of The Incline. But it had been no easy task getting Nick to change his routine. It was early when they pulled up outside Lulu’s house. She unbuckled her seat belt and started to alight from the car, then realized the motor was still running. “Nick?” He was staring straight ahead. “You’re coming in, aren’t you?” “Can I take a rain check? I’m really tired. You know, work…” He looked over at her. She thought she noted a lot of sadness in his eyes tonight. “Oh… okay. You sure?” He reached over and brushed the back of his hand over her cheek then tilted her face up and kissed her tenderly on the lips. He whispered in her ear, “I’m afraid I wouldn’t be good company tonight.” Her body ached with desire for his touch—to have him lying beside her. She put her hand on his neck and kissed him passionately. He kissed her back. “Are you sure?” she asked again, breathlessly. “I’m sure,” he said, with a smile. “Maybe we can do that play on Saturday.” “Okay. I’ll get the tickets.” “Great.” “Goodnight, Nick.” She opened the car door. “Night.” He waited until she was safely inside, then drove slowly away. ~/~/~/~/~ “Nick. Nicholas.” Burton crossed the lobby to where Nick was standing at the reception counter. “I need a favor.” “What is it?” Nick had tried to be civil to his father after their confrontation the other day. His dad was about as stubborn as they come and he couldn’t be dissuaded from something that he really believed in. Burton stepped away from the counter and spoke in a whisper. “I need you to entertain that lawyer, uh… you know, that guy coming in tonight for the Hansen meeting this weekend… from New York. You know, dinner, drinks. Keep ‘im happy. Gretchen got ‘im a room at the Renaissance.” “Where are you gonna be?” ”Shannon’s father is coming in from Philly. He wants custody.” Nick looked curiously at his dad. “I didn’t think she knew who her dad was?” “Yeah, well… Social Services talked to him before the placement hearing but he didn’t show any interest at the time. Looks like he’s changed his mind.” “Well, you know, Dad… a biological father has more influence over the judge.” “Yeah.” Nick could tell his father was worried. “I just don’t think he’d be good for Shannon. Anyway… this lawyer is Joe Amison. Flight gets in around 6:00 o’clock and he’ll meet you here. The meeting’s set up with Hansen for tomorrow afternoon. I have Gretchen coming in to handle any clerical work. And I thought we’d all go to the Club tomorrow night for dinner.” “Uh… I already have plans for tomorrow night.” “Well, I think you need to change ‘em, Nicholas. Don’t you? I mean, this is a really big deal and you’re gonna be handling most of the work on it.” Burton patted him on the shoulder and left the office. Nick looked at his watch—4:30. Lulu was expecting to have dinner tonight. He walked to his office and picked up the phone. “Hey,” he said, sweetly, into the phone. “Oh, hi, Nick? How’s your day going?” “Uh… fine. Listen, Lulu…” he hesitated. “Uh… something’s come up here at work. I, uh… I’m not gonna be able to make dinner tonight.” “Oh?” He could hear the disappointment in her voice. “Well, that’s okay… I guess. We have tomorrow night,” she said, trying to make the best of it. “Well… you see… I can’t make that either.” “What?” “I know it’s short notice, Lulu. I’m sorry. It’s business. I’m sorry.” There was silence on the other end of the line. “Lulu…?” “Fine, Nick. I knew you didn’t wanna go to the play in the first place. I’ll talk to you later.” She hung up the phone. Nick stared at the receiver. Well, that didn’t go very well. ~/~/~/~/~ Nick sat, totally engrossed in a file, when he heard a knock on his open door. He looked up to find a statuesque blonde standing in the doorway. “Nick Fallin, I presume?” she said, her voice throaty and mellow. “Yeah. Can I help you?” he asked, curtly, wrinkling his brow. She stepped forward and extended her hand. “I’m Jo Amison.” Nick stood and took her hand. He stammered, “Uh… but, I thought… well…” He laughed. “You thought I was a man.” She smiled. “It happens all the time. May I sit down?” “Sure. Yeah. Have a seat.” He waited until she was seated then sat down, himself. “So… is this your first time in Pittsburgh?” “It is.” “You’re from New York, right?” She fished in her handbag for a business card and handed it to him. “Swann & Cranston,” he muttered, smiling. “You know it?” “I worked there for three years, right out of law school.” He tucked the card in his shirt pocket. “So… are you hungry?” “More thirsty than hungry, if you know what I mean? I don’t like to drink on the plane.” “Okay… Well, let’s go.” ~/~/~/~/~ At The Incline Nick ordered an appetizer which they shared and a martini for Jo. He ordered his usual soda water for himself. He had been surprised to hear that many of the same guys he had worked with years ago were still at Swann & Cranston. It didn’t take long for Nick to decide that Jo was smart, funny and quite charming, in a businesslike sort of way. Across the room, Lulu was having dinner with Kate; a last minute arrangement after Nick had backed out. “So… you and Nick Fallin, huh? I would never have thought that you two would ever get together.” Kate laughed. “He is a hotty.” She raised her eyebrows. Lulu blushed at the inference. “Yeah… he is.” She giggled. “Are you two serious?” “No. No, nothing like that. Geez, Kate… I just got divorced.” She laughed, showing her dimples. “Right. It would probably be hard to tie him down, anyway. He doesn’t strike me as the domestic type.” “You don’t think so?” Lulu had never thought about it but Kate was right. Nick would be a hard one to corral. “He’s dated practically every female at the courthouse, you know—under 40. That’s a lot of competition.” “Hmm.” Lulu scowled. The waitress cleared away their plates. “Will there be anything else, ladies?” Kate looked at Lulu. “Another drink?” “Sure, why not. I don’t have anyplace else to be tonight.” “I’ll be back with your drinks.” Kate glanced across the room. Her gaze settled on the table where Nick and Jo were sitting. “Lulu… isn’t that Nick over there?” “Where?” Lulu looked around. Her heart sank. He had told her it was ‘work’. It didn’t look much like work to her. “Yeah…” she said, after she regained her voice. She heard him laugh. He was definitely having a good time. She watched as he laid money on the table for the check and then saw him pull the chair out for his beautiful companion as they prepared to leave. She noticed how he placed his hand on the small of her back as they made their way to the door. Kate could tell her friend was having a hard time with the scene. “Lulu… she’s probably a client.” “Yeah… she’s probably a client,” Lulu repeated, trying to convince herself of that fact. ~/~/~/~/~ Nick pulled up in front of the Renaissance Hotel. Jo removed her seatbelt and turned in the seat. “Nick, I really enjoyed this evening. I’ll see you tomorrow.” She squeezed his arm and smiled. “Did you need a ride over tomorrow?” “No, thanks, Nick. I can get a cab. Goodnight. And thanks again.” “Goodnight.” ~/~/~/~/~ Nick had been tied up all weekend into Monday and most of Tuesday with the Hansen deal. Hansen Satellite & Communications International would undoubtedly turn out to be the most lucrative acquisition for the Firm so far this year. It had fallen on Nick to do most of the ‘heavy lifting’ but he had been exhilarated by the experience. It had been a long time since he’d gotten such enjoyment out of a project. He checked his watch. It was already 2:15 PM on Tuesday. It had been several days since he’d seen or spoken to Lulu. He hoped she’d had a chance to cool off after the spoiled weekend. Surely she’d be happy for him about the Hansen deal. He couldn’t wait to tell her about it. He stepped off the elevator and immediately looked around for Lulu as he made his way to his office. “Nick,” Alvin called across the room. Nick halted as Alvin approached, a client in tow. “Nick. This is your new client, Betty Winston.” He handed Nick the file. “Hearing’s in 20 minutes.” He turned to walk away. “Alvin. Have you seen Lulu?” “Uh…” He looked around. “Yeah. I think she’s in James’ office. He’s gonna handle her hearing for tomorrow.” “What?” “Yeah. She’s got that interview in California.” “What interview?” Nick was completely blindsided by the news. “Yeah.” Alvin looked at him curiously. “I thought you knew.” “Knew…? Knew what?” Nick saw Lulu emerge from James’ office. “Thanks, James. I really appreciate it.” She quickly walked to her office. Nick started to follow her. “Nick. Nick, where are you going? You have a client.” Alvin reminded him. Nick looked down at the file in his hand and at the short, stout black woman standing nearby. “Uh…” he searched for something to say. He saw Lulu come out of her office carrying her briefcase and a small overnight bag. Turning to his client, he said, “Excuse me for a sec.” He hurried after Lulu. “Lulu, wait.” She called for the elevator and turned to face him. “Where are you going?” “Job interview—California,” she said, matter-of-factly. “When did this happen?” “Oh… well, they called me yesterday.” The elevator arrived and Lulu stepped in. “Lulu…” The doors began to close. He reached his arm out to stop them. They rattled open again. “Why…?” Lulu punched the CLOSE button in the elevator and watched as the doors closed between them. For a moment, Nick could not move. He stood blankly staring at the elevator doors. “Nick…” Alvin walked up to him. “You’re now down to 15 minutes before the hearing.” He tapped his watch. Nick looked sheepishly at his client who had joined them at the elevator. He punched the button and, after a moment, the elevator doors opened. He stepped in with Ms. Winston. At the courthouse, Nick scurried down the hallway to Judge Peabody’s courtroom, Betty Winston practically running to keep up. He reached into his inside coat pocket and dialed his cell phone. It rang 3 times before it was answered. “Lulu… you wanna tell me what’s going on?” “It’s a job interview, Nick,” she said into her cell phone, as the cab weaved in and out of downtown traffic congestion on the way to the airport. “When were you planning to tell me?” Nick pushed open the courtroom doors, still talking on his phone. “When were you planning to tell me about your new girlfriend?” She said, sharply into the phone. She had surprised herself by mentioning this. At first, she wasn’t going to give him the satisfaction of knowing that he had hurt her. But, she couldn’t quit thinking about it. “What are you talking about?” It was all so crazy. What ‘was’ she talking about? He placed his briefcase on the table and motioned for Ms. Winston to take the seat beside him. He glanced up at the bench and saw Judge Peabody glaring at him. He took a seat, with his cell phone still pressed to his ear. “Mr. Fallin, would you care to give us your attention, please?” “Nick, I saw you Friday night. So… you can quit playing dumb with me.” “What?” He couldn’t believe his ears. Oh, shit. She must have been at The Incline. But that was innocent. It ‘was’ business. “Mr. Fallin, I’m not going to ask you again. Get off the phone and give your attention to the court.” “Listen… Lulu,” he said, pleadingly into the phone, his eye on the Judge. “Bailiff, would you kindly relieve Mr. Fallin of his phone.” Nick turned to see the Bailiff start his way. “Nick… I’ve gotta go.” The connection was abruptly severed. “Lulu… Lulu…” For what seemed like an eternity, he held the phone to his ear, then in a fit of rage, he yelled, “God damn it!” and slammed the phone down. It shattered in pieces and skittered across the table and off the edge onto the floor. “Bailiff!” the Judge roared. “Mr. Fallin, you are in contempt! Bailiff, will you show Mr. Fallin to my chambers. The Court will take a 15-minute recess.” He pounded his gavel then rose quickly and left the bench. The Bailiff took Nick’s arm. He shook it off, roughly. Sheepishly, he looked around the courtroom at the handful of people staring at him. In chambers, Judge Peabody scowled at Nick, who sat with his arms resting on his knees, his head bowed. “Would you care to give me an explanation for that outburst, Mr. Fallin?” With head still bowed, Nick said, “Sorry, Your Honor.” He looked up to catch the Judge’s studied gaze. “It won’t happen again.” He rubbed his forehead then nervously tugged at his tie while he waited for the Judge to speak. After a moment of deliberation, Judge Peabody spoke. “I could impose a fine, Mr. Fallin…” Nick interrupted. “Right. Right. I understand, Your Honor.” The Judge continued, “…but… I think a fine is hardly a stretch for you.” “Okay.” Nick sat upright, wondering what the Judge had in mind. Judge Peabody reached for a small pad and pen and began writing as he laid out the punishment for Nick. “The Court orders you attend Anger Management counseling—3 sessions… at your own expense…” He looked over his glasses at Nick to gauge the impact of his words. “…after which time the Court will determine the need for any further course of action.” “What?” Nick couldn’t believe his ears. Anger management? He had to be kidding. “You are kidding,” he said, allowing a smile to break across his face. The Judge leaned back in his chair and laced his fingers together. He waited a moment. Nick’s smile was replaced by dread. “I’m not in the habit of kidding around in my courtroom, Mr. Fallin. Perhaps you’ll understand that when you return from your counseling sessions.” The Judge ripped the top sheet from the small pad he had written on and, standing, he handed it to Nick. “Here are the names of two therapists. I suggest you decide on one and get your first appointment set up as soon as possible. Then notify my clerk.” Nick looked at the names scrawled on the piece of paper, trying to figure out how he was going to fit one more thing into his schedule which was already taxed to the limit. He tucked the note in his shirt pocket. “Shall we go back to work now, Mr. Fallin?” The Judge motioned towards the door. ~/~/~/~/~ Gretchen knocked and peeked in the door. “Excuse me, Mr. Fallin. I have your new cell phone.” “Good. Just set it on the desk.” “I programmed in some of the most commonly used phone numbers for you. And… you have the same cell number.” “Thanks.” He nodded, absently. He glanced at his watch as Gretchen turned to leave. It had been a long couple of days since Lulu left for her interview in California. Alvin had said she would be back in the office, this morning. First, Nick had the breakfast meeting with the partners then two short meetings with prospective clients. He hoped to finish in time to take Lulu to lunch where they could sit down and talk things through. He grabbed his pad and headed for the conference room and the partners’ meeting. ~/~/~/~/~ Nick didn’t see Lulu when he got to LSP. He deposited his briefcase on his desk and went to her office. There were papers scattered over her desk so he assumed she had been there earlier. He walked into Alvin’s office. “Alvin, have you seen Lulu?” Alvin looked over the top of his reading glasses, perched on the end of his nose. “Yeah.” “Okay.” He waited a second then added, “Well…?” “Sit down a minute, Nick.” Nick glanced at his watch and shifted his weight from one foot to the other. “I… I don’t really have a lotta time, Alvin.” “Nick…” Alvin said again, pointing to the chair. He shut the door, sensing a reprimand coming. “I have to admit, at first it was kind of amusing having two lovebirds in the office…” he smiled, raising his eyebrows. Nick scowled and ducked his head. “…but… I think it’s gotten way outta hand.” “Whadaya mean?” Nick asked, defensively. “I think it’s beginning to affect your work.” “Look, Alvin, I don’t need you telling me who I can and cannot see. Now if you’ll just tell me where Lulu is, I’ll be going.” He stood up, buttoned his jacket, then shoved his hands in his pockets. Alvin had long since tired of Nick’s behavior of the last several weeks. He sighed. “Nick… I heard about the incident in Judge Peabody’s courtroom the other day.” Nick worked his jaw, trying to maintain his cool. “Where is she, Alvin?” Alvin let out another big sigh. “She’s at the courthouse, Nick. I think she’s got three hearings today. But, I don’t want you over there making a scene.” Nick was out the door in a flash before Alvin could finish his warning. Alvin got up and walked to his door where he could see Nick standing at the elevator. He saw him impatiently punch the call button several times. Alvin wasn’t angry at Nick as much as he was worried—wondering where all this anger and hostility was going to lead him. ~/~/~/~/~ Nick walked down the corridor towards Judge Damsen’s courtroom, where he expected to find Lulu. His cell phone rang. He quickly fished it from his inside coat pocket and barked into it. “Yeah?” “Nicholas. Where are you?” It was his father on the other end and he was not happy. “What?” “Did you forget the meeting with Pittsburgh Paper Products?” Nick glanced at his watch and rolled his head. He had forgotten to put the PPP meeting on his calendar. “Listen, Dad… something’s come up. I can’t be there. Can you…” “Damn it, Nick. This is your deal. Now, I’ll delay the meeting ‘til you get here.” The phone went dead. Nick looked at it for a moment before stowing it away then turned and retraced his steps. Outside the courthouse, he saw an opening in traffic and dashed across the nearest lanes, leaping on and over the median, and crossing the remaining lanes without incident. Inside the Frick Building, he raced up the marble staircase to the mezzanine where he caught the express elevator to the 15th Floor. As he entered the lobby of Fallin & Fallin, Gretchen informed him that everyone was waiting in the conference room. He hurried to his office and grabbed a stack of folders before joining the others. Burton looked askance at his son as he entered the conference room. “Oh, hey, Nicholas. C’mon in. We just got started.” Nick avoided his gaze. “Hey, sorry I’m late,” Nick said, somewhat breathless. He took a seat at the head of the table. “Nicholas, you know Adam Sellers, Bob Patrick and Winn Arnold.” Burton continued around the table with the introductions. “I don’t think you know Hayes Godwin and Leland Charles. Gentlemen, this is my son, Nicholas. He’ll be handling the initial set-up: Contracts, leases, financing arrangements. Okay, son… I guess you can get started.” He leaned back in his chair as Nick took the floor. Nick passed the folders around the table. “I’ve prepared a folder for each of you which you can follow along as I go over the proposal.” The meeting took a total of an hour and forty-five minutes. During that time, Nick found himself checking his watch several times. More than once, he saw Burton looking his way and scowling. Finally the meeting was over. Burton escorted the group to the front door while Nick gathered up his papers. He had started down the hallway to his office when he heard Burton call to him. “Nicholas.” Nick stopped but didn’t turn around. “I’d like to see you in my office.” Nick waited for a second, took a deep breath, then turned to follow his father to his office. “Shut the door.” Nick closed the door and walked to the window. He ran his left hand over the back of his neck, still holding the sheaf of papers from the meeting in his other hand. “You wanna tell me about it?” His father started the conversation. Nick didn’t turn around. “Tell you about what?” “What’s causing you to melt down?” Nick spun around. “Melt down? What the hell are you talking about?” he said, seething. “Well, ’that’… for one thing. Where is all this anger coming from, Nicholas?” Nick took a deep breath and softened his tone. It wouldn’t help matters to get into a battle royal with his dad. “I’m just having a bad day, all right? Don’t you ever have a bad day?” “And in Teddy Peabody’s court… the other day? Was that another ‘bad day’?” Burton wasn’t angry. He was concerned. “It’s nothing… it’s… it’s nothing, really… Dad. Now can we just skip it? Okay?” He looked over at his dad who suddenly seemed older to him. “I think there is something bothering you, son… and I wish the hell you’d talk to me about it.” “Look… uh… maybe later, all right? I have to go.” He had his hand on the door knob. With a lighter tone, he said, “Honestly, Dad. You’re making too much out of this.” He flashed a smile in hopes of allaying his father’s fears then exited the room. ~/~/~/~/~ Nick had been sitting on the sofa in the doctor’s office for at least 20 minutes. He kept consulting his watch—counting the minutes until he could escape this nonsense. “You wanna tell me why you’re here?” Dr. Bedford asked. Nick answered, tersely. “Court ordered therapy. Three sessions and I’m done. You have my file.” “I know what the file says. I was just wondering what you thought.” Nick took a sip of water. “I think I threw a cell phone. That’s why I’m here.” “Why’d you throw a cell phone?” Nick shrugged, giving the doctor nothing. “Were you angry?” Nick glared. I mean, wasn’t it obvious? Geez… was this guy a fucking idiot? “You don’t know if you were angry? You just… just threw a cell phone?” After a long pause, the doctor continued, “Okay. You don’t wanna be here. I don’t want you to be here unless… you wanna talk to me.” After still no response, he added, “Right. So… here’s a book.” He extended the book—Nick ignored him. “Here’s a book.” He finally laid it on the couch beside Nick. “Read the first 3 chapters, fill out the worksheets, and we’ll discuss your answers, the next session. The book costs 30 bucks.” “Fine.” “Hundred and five for the session.” “Fine.” “I take checks.” Nick gave him a half smile. Grabbing the workbook, he made a hasty exit. ~/~/~/~ It was well after 5:00 when Nick stepped off the elevator at LSP. He was bucking the crowd as most everyone was on their way out. He walked straight to Lulu’s office and found it dark. Alvin was at the espresso machine, cleaning it for the night. Nick walked over to him. “Alvin. Where’s Lulu?” “Oh, hi, Nick. Uh… you didn’t see her at the courthouse?” “No.” “Well, I think she’s gone home for the day.” “Thanks.” Nick called for the elevator. ~/~/~/~/~ Nick pulled up in front of Lulu’s house. He was pleased to see her car parked at the curb and a light on in the living room. He took the front steps, two at a time, and knocked lightly on the door. After a moment, the door was opened. Lulu stood there in a pair of sweatpants and a tight T-shirt. She didn’t speak. “Hi,” he said, uneasily, with a shy smile. After a long moment, she said, dispassionately, “Hi, Nick. Come on in.” He stepped just inside and waited while she closed the door then he moved closer. Taking her in his arms, he bent to kiss her. She turned her head—his kiss landing on her cheek. He loosened his hold and she twisted out of his grasp. “You want something to drink?” she asked, moving towards the couch. “No. No, I’m fine.” Something was wrong. She apparently was still punishing him for the lost weekend. “Is everything all right?” “Yeah. Why do you ask?” She began gathering up the papers which were strewn across the coffee table. He caught a glimpse of the letterhead which read: Berkeley Legal Center. “Why?” He forced a laugh. “Well… I think I just got the cold shoulder.” She busied herself with the papers, finally stowing them in her briefcase; deliberately ignoring his remark. “You wanna sit?” she asked, motioning to the chair, as she curled up on the couch, her legs tucked beneath her. “So… how did the interview go?” he asked, trying to be open-minded about it. He sat in the chair next to the couch. “Sure you don’t want something to drink?” She took a sip of her wine. “No. No, thank you.” He waited for her to elaborate. When she didn’t, he said, softly, “You’re… you’re taking the job… then?” “Nick… I know this seems sudden but… it’s just too good an opportunity to pass up.” “I see.” He clenched his jaw and stared at the floor. “And…” he looked over at her. “…what about us?” “Nick… do you really think we are an ‘US’?” He leaned on his forearms and looked off into space, trying desperately to maintain some semblance of control. “So it was just a fling for you?” “No. Nick. I mean… it wasn’t. But… but you know you’re not ready to settle down—make a commitment. And there’s really no future for me at LSP.” He walked over to the couch and sat down, facing her. Gently lifting her chin, he kissed her sweetly on the lips. He looked into her eyes but they had lost the twinkle he remembered. He pulled her to him and nuzzled her ear and whispered, “I don’t want you to go.” “Nick… Nick…” she said, sharply, as she gently pushed him away. “I’m just one of many girls you’ve shared a bed with. In fact, don’t you already have a replacement?” She took a sip of her wine. He recoiled. “What…?” Knowing she had the facts on her side, she charged ahead. “I saw you with that girl on Friday when you were supposed to be working.” “Lulu… I ‘was’ working.” She shook her head and smiled. “Right. Good work if you can get it.” She took another long sip from her wine glass. Nick took her glass from her and set it on the table then grabbed her shoulders a little too roughly—his fingers pressing into her flesh—forcing her to look him in the eye. “I was working, Lulu. Just like I said.” After a moment, she averted her gaze. “It just wouldn’t work out for us, Nick. I mean… when was the last time you were in love? Really, Nick… have you ‘ever’ been in love?” “Lulu.” He took her two hands in his and brought them to his lips and kissed them. “You want me to say, “I love you,” then I will. I love you, Lulu...” He felt his throat closing up and swallowed hard. At first, Lulu was stunned to hear the words, then chalked it up to expediency. Nick Fallin would say and do anything he felt he needed to in order to get the results that he wanted. She’d seen him do it many times before. She reached out and touched his lips with the tips of her fingers. “Oh, Nick… I know you think you mean that but…” She recalled what Kate had said. Something about Nick Fallin not being the domestic type. She hadn’t really given it much thought until now, but it was probably true. He would probably be attentive for the short term but could she count on him for the long haul. She had to think about her future. She wanted a family and she wasn’t getting any younger. Nick was just not ready for that… if he ever would be. And… she couldn’t afford to make another mistake. Nick took her hand and kissed her finger tips. He squeezed his eyes shut tight to stem the flow of tears that threatened to spill over. He pulled her to him and hugged her tightly. “Lulu… don’t go,” he pleaded; his face buried in her hair as he held her close. He swallowed a sob. The phone rang, shattering the moment. He released her as she reached for the phone on the table next to the couch. “Hello.” He stood up to walk off his anxiety while she talked. “No, really, Mr. Evans. I’ve already made the arrangements at my job, here. I can be there for orientation next week.” She glanced at Nick, standing with his hands in his pockets, his brow furrowed. “I look forward to working with you, too. Thanks. Goodnight, Mr. Evans.” She disconnected and slowly set the phone on the table. “So, it’s a done deal,” Nick said, stoically, swallowing hard. She didn’t answer. He started for the door. “Nick…” He didn’t turn back. In a moment he was gone. In his car, he took several deep breaths then slammed his fist into the steering wheel. He started the engine and squealed away from the curb. ~/~/~/~/~ He couldn’t be sure how long he had driven around. It was well past dark when he drove up in his father’s driveway. He had to talk to someone. Be with someone. He had been so tempted to get stoned, tonight. Just to take the edge off the pain. He rang the bell and the door was eventually opened by Burton. “Nicholas.” He was obviously surprised to see him. Nick never just dropped in. “What…?” He looked to his son for an explanation for the unexpected visit. Getting no indication from Nick, he said, “Come in, son. Can I get you something to drink?” He raised the glass of whiskey he held in his hand. “A soda or something?” Nick shook his head. “No. Thanks, Dad. I’m fine. I…” If his dad only knew how tempted he had been to just get drunk tonight. “Well, come on in the library. Shannon’s doing her homework.” He grinned at Nick. “Maybe you can help us out with some of her math problems.” Nick grimaced and shook his head. “I… I don’t know, Dad. I…” “Oh, come on. You were really good at math. Never was my strong suit.” Nick followed his dad into the library. Shannon looked up from her homework then, ignoring Nick, she went back to it. “Hi, Shannon,” Nick said, in almost a whisper. “Shannon… that problem we couldn’t figure out…? I bet Nick could help us,” Burton said eagerly. “That’s okay. I think I figured it out.” She closed her books and stood to leave. “I’ll finish up in my room.” “You sure?” “Yeah.” She cut her eyes at Nick and left the room. Burton refreshed his drink. “I wish you two would get along better.” He turned to see Nick standing with his hands in his pockets. “You sure you don’t want something to drink?” “No, Dad.” “What is it, then? Why’d you stop by?” Burton settled into his easy chair. Nick walked over to the fireplace. He noticed his picture, which usually held the place of honor on the fireplace mantel, had been replaced by Shannon’s. “So, you’re really getting into fatherhood,” Nick said, nibbling at his bottom lip. “Yeah.” Burton smiled broadly. “I didn’t realize what I’d missed.” Nick narrowed his eyes as he looked at his father. “Yeah…” He chuckled. “You just missed my entire childhood.” He couldn’t keep the bitterness out of his voice. “What’s that supposed to mean?” Burton’s tone, decidedly defensive. “You know what I mean.” “I worked hard to provide for you, son. To give you the things I never had as a kid.” “Right. Everything but your time.” Long suppressed feelings of loneliness and abandonment began to well-up inside him. Lately, there was nowhere he felt he could go to be alone with his dad. Shannon seemed to be everywhere—at the office or here in his father’s house. “If I didn’t know any better, Nicholas, I’d think you were jealous.” “What happened with her father, anyway? I thought he wanted custody.” “Yeah… well…” He cleared his throat. “We worked it out.” “I see.” He scowled at his father. “Well… listen… I’d better go.” He started for the front door. Burton set his drink down and caught up with his son in the foyer. “Nicholas.” He grabbed for his sleeve and Nick jerked away. “Nicholas. There is something the matter. Come back and let’s talk.” “No… Dad… it’s nothing.” He reached the front door and had his hand on the knob when Burton reached out again, laying his hand firmly on Nick’s shoulder. Nick spun around and landed his right fist against the side of his father’s jaw. Burton stumbled backward, falling hard to the floor. Immediately Nick went to him. “Oh, God! Dad. Dad. You okay?” He reached out a hand to help him up. Burton rubbed his jaw. “Jesus, Nicholas. What’s gotten into you?” He took Nick’s extended hand and struggled to his feet. Nick noticed a speck of blood at the corner of his father’s mouth. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of Shannon, standing on the balcony overlooking the foyer. When their eyes met, she hurriedly ran into her room and slammed the door. Burton took Nick firmly by the arm and led him back into the library. “Now have a seat and talk to me.” He removed his handkerchief from his pocket and dabbed at his mouth. Nick sank into a chair, head in his hands. He felt his father’s hand on his shoulder. When he looked up he recognized a sincere concern in his father’s eyes. “I’m sorry, Dad. I don’t know what got into me.” He shook his head. With his elbows resting on his knees, he pressed the heels of his hands against his eyes, struggling to avoid a total break-down. Burton sank down in the chair across from his son. “Nicholas… I wanna help you. Tell me… what can I do?” Nick looked up at his dad. Why did he always doubt his love? Hadn’t his father been there for him—time after time? He straightened up in the chair and gazed off in the distance. Finally, in almost a whisper, he said, “Will you tell me about my mother?” He turned his gaze on his father. Their eyes met and for a moment there was a connection. “Sure, son. Whadaya wanna know?” ~/~/~/~ Dr. Bedford glanced at the clock on the wall. You have 45 minutes left, Mr. Fallin. You should take advantage of the time, since you’re paying for it.” “Right.” This was the last session and he’d be done—45 minutes to go. He cleared his throat. Surprising himself, he said, hesitantly, “Uh… my mother…” He looked tentatively at the doctor to get his reaction. “…she died when I was twelve.” Dr. Bedford showed no outward surprise at the apparent break-through. He simply asked, “And how did that make you feel, Nick?” Nick took a deep breath. He looked down at his hands, clasped together in his lap. Finally, through all his pain, he said, “Sad. It made me feel sad.” THE END