Chapter Twenty-Two
Colby lugged a box of tea lights into the restaurant Tuesday morning. Yesterday she, Sara, and her mom had met here to decorate for tonight’s gala. Now A CertainTea shimmered with silver-and-navy accents. Hundreds of balloons with shiny streamers had arrived early this morning, and flowers would be delivered any minute.
The warm, dry weather meant she could throw the glass doors open and allow the party to wander onto the flagstone patio. A gorgeous sunset on the lake would provide a perfect backdrop for the event.
Guests would arrive at seven. She should be thrilled for having pulled it all together in such a short time. She would have been, too, if it didn’t also mark the last time she and Alec would work together.
All week she’d hoped Alec would change his mind, but he’d restricted their discussions to the gala. Neither he nor Julie had mentioned her confrontation with Mr. Morgan. Either the man hadn’t told them, or it simply hadn’t done any good.
Her Hail Mary didn’t pan out, either. Her dad had promised to contact his writer friend, but to no avail. Although disappointed that she wouldn’t be able to salvage Alec’s reputation, Alec didn’t seem surprised that Mr. Salvetti hadn’t committed to coming. Alec’s ennui suggested he’d given up on being a chef that drew any notice.
She set the tea lights on a dining table before going into her office and flicking on the light. When she draped her wrap over her chair and flung her purse on the desk, she noticed her empty bud vase. She lifted it to her chest, then laid it in her desk drawer.
A knock at the door caused her to look up, right into Alec’s cautious gaze. “We’re in good shape in the kitchen. Just checking to see if there are any last-minute items you need help with.”
“Nothing for you to worry about.” She sighed. “You must be thrilled to get tonight over with so you can leave this all behind.”
Chin tucked, he closed his eyes and shook his head. “I wouldn’t say that.”
“You know, reservations are up this week. Our TripAdvisor and Yelp ratings are fantastic. Real people love your food, no matter what Jeffers says. You could stay and save me the trouble of hiring someone new.” Stay and give us a chance to rebuild.
He tucked his hands in his pockets, like usual. “I appreciate the pep talk, but I can’t stay here and work with you every day.”
“I don’t care about Mark’s note. You’re not the reason he’s dead. His illness is. And as far as honesty goes, you were right. We both made mistakes, but we can learn from them. They don’t have to mean the end of everything.”
All week she’d fantasized that a speech like that would end in a passionate kiss. When it didn’t, she simply hung her head.
“I’m not good for you.” He sounded so certain he almost convinced her. “Look around. My mother lives in my apartment. My family is in shambles. My career is in neutral. None of that makes me happy, or fun. I want you to be happy. I want you to have fun.”
“I’m not having fun now.”
“You will soon enough. And if we’re being completely honest, until I come to terms with my new reality, I can’t be a good partner for anyone. Not in any way. I don’t want you waiting around, or spending your time trying to fix me. You’ve spent enough of your life trying to fix people. You should be with someone who makes your stomach hurt from laughing, not from stress. But I can’t stick around and watch you fall in love with someone else, so I have to go.”
She thought to shove her right hand at his face and show him that she’d taken off Mark’s ring. To tell him how she’d gone to his dad on his behalf. How she’d missed him and would happily “wait” or help him get back on his feet. But looking at the resolve in his expression, she knew it wouldn’t matter. He’d made up his mind, and nothing she said now would change it.
“You say you love me, but apparently not enough.” She turned her back to him, chin to chest. “I accept your resignation.”
He stood there in silence. When she didn’t turn around, he finally left, dragging her heart on the floor behind him.
Two hours later, the din of the vibrant crowd drowned out the music. Large platters of hors d’oeuvres passed by, looking elegant and tasty. A festive celebration ensued, just like she’d envisioned when this building had been crumbling to the ground. Yet the happiness she’d imagined eluded her.
Colby set aside her hurt feelings and mingled with the patrons, thanking them for coming. She occasionally glanced toward the kitchen, fighting the urge to march back there and punch or kiss Alec. Either one might break him out of his self-imposed prison.
Her father appeared beside her, putting his arm around her shoulder and kissing her temple. “Smashing success, honey. I’m so proud.”
His warm smile helped a little, just not enough.
“Thanks, Dad.”
“How are you holding up?”
“I’ve been better.”
“I know. I wonder if this restaurant idea isn’t exactly the fix you’d hoped it would be. You’ve never lit up over it the way you do anytime you talk about the foundation. Maybe you ought to reconsider your career path and focus more on what makes you really happy.”
“I’d need to win the lottery so I could repay CTC before I’d be free to make that change.”
“You never know. Maybe the lottery is coming your way.”
Colby thought of Hunter, who’d politely been steering clear of Jenna and their dad all night. She’d made him a promise she hadn’t yet kept. “Hunter mentioned a rumor about Pure Foods. I have to say I can’t believe you’d consider selling the family business.”
“I’m not getting younger. If I had less responsibility, I could be more focused on what my kids need. I could be a better father.” He shrugged.
“You’re not a bad father, Dad. Besides, we’re all grown up. And what about all the promises you made to Hunter? How can you take all that away from him, especially after he walked away from other opportunities? If you want to slow down, retire and let him run things, but don’t sell out.”
“Let’s not get into this here.” He patted her shoulder. “Nothing’s even on the table yet . . . just whispers and rumors. Besides, we’re at a party, and this night is about celebrating you and this wonderful idea. Speaking of which, I have a little something for you.”
He handed her a generous five-figure check. “Dad, this is amazing. Thank you.”
“Think about what I said. If you have the right people in charge here, you could dedicate more time to the foundation.”
“It’s ironic that the foundation was Alec’s idea.” She sighed, glancing at the kitchen again.
“I hear he’s back there tonight.”
“Yes, but only for the party.”
Her dad kissed her temple. “I’m sorry, honey. But remember, it’s never over until you quit. And, on that note, I need to introduce you to Rob.”
Mr. Salvetti showed up? “He never RSVP’d!”
“He texted me two days ago, didn’t I tell you? Sorry. I would’ve sworn I passed that along. What’s one more, right? You got what you wanted.”
Her father walked her over to a dark-haired man who was taking a flute of champagne from a waiter. “Jed, good to see you.”
“So glad you could come.” The men shook hands. “I wanted to introduce you to my daughter, Colby. This place and the foundation are hers.”
“Nice to meet you,” she said, also offering her trembling hand. He’d come! She should tell Alec as soon as possible. Maybe this was a sign of things turning around.
“You as well. This is a beautiful space, and the Scallop Carpaccio with Ginger Chive Pesto is amazing.”
“That’s all Alec Morgan. I’d be happy to introduce you if you’d like.”
“Perhaps later. I’m sure he’s busy now,” Rob chuckled.
“True.” Now wouldn’t be a good time to interrupt him.
Todd walked over, unaware of his poor timing. “Hello, Mr. Cabot.”
“Todd.” Her father shook hands and then looked at Colby.
“I’ll let you two catch up,” Colby said to her dad and Mr. Salvetti. She could barely think, torn about whether or not to race back and tell Alec now. But Todd tugged at her arm.
“How does it feel to be a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist?” He winked.
“I think you may be jumping the gun on both—” She broke off when she noticed Frank Morgan stroll through the doors. Before she could draw a breath, her mother rushed to her side.
“This is a surprise.” She laid her hand on Colby’s back.
Todd followed their gazes. “A big donor?”
“Alec’s father.” When Todd frowned in confusion, Colby added, “His estranged father. Excuse me, please. I need to warn Alec.”
Her mother held her arm. “Maybe you ought to first see what the man wants before you get Alec worked up.”
By then, Julie had made her way to her husband, while the rest of Colby’s family subtly closed ranks around her.
Frank surveyed the Cabot group, jaw set, avoiding making direct eye contact with Colby. He didn’t look as threatening as he had at his house. But this was her turf. He murmured something to Julie, and then, together, they crossed the room.
“Jed.” Frank reached for her father’s hand. “Leslie. Hunter.” Then finally he met Colby’s gaze. “Colby.”
“Mr. Morgan, thank you for supporting the cause.” She wished her voice sounded stronger, but anxiety strangled it to something thready.
He drew a breath and looked at Julie. “You’re welcome.”
“I’m sure your family appreciates it.” Colby smiled at Julie, seeking some assurance that her husband wasn’t going to cause trouble.
“Contrary to what some people think, I love my family.” Frank kept his voice as level as his gaze.
Too aware of their audience, Colby merely said, “The only people whose opinions matter are your wife’s and son’s.”
“Where is Alec?” he asked.
“Busy in the kitchen.” Colby wondered then if inviting him back to the kitchen so he could finally see his son’s gift would rattle Alec. Her gut told her to do it, and, sick of doubting herself for so long, she decided to go with it. “I’ll take you to see him, although he won’t be able to speak with you now.”
“Understood.” His eye twitched, making obvious his discomfort at being the center of the Cabot family’s attention. “Well, let’s get on with it.”
“Polished” would not be a word anyone attributed to him, but she had to give him points for guts.
“Follow me.” She led him through the crowd.
Along the way to the kitchen, he muttered, “You had no business storming into my house and dressing me down”—he cleared his throat—“but you weren’t entirely wrong.”
She chose not to respond. It didn’t matter if he liked her or she liked him. He was here for Alec, and that was all that mattered.
When they reached the kitchen, she held out her arm to keep Frank back for a moment. She wanted him to see Alec as others did: as a man completely in charge. A maestro conducting a grand orchestra of activity. The timing. The chaos. All of it coming together to produce exquisite, elegant food.
They watched for a full two minutes before Alec noticed them. He was so stunned he nearly dropped the plate he’d been inspecting.
He approached them quickly, panic on his face. “What’s wrong?”
“Nothing.” Mr. Morgan cleared his throat again.
“What are you doing here?” Alec looked at Colby, but she shrugged.
“I came to see what all the fuss is about.” His father cleared his throat. “To apologize to your mom and you.”
She’d done all that she could, and now she’d bow out. Perhaps she’d helped these two men rebuild some kind of relationship. Her time with Alec had taught her that real love is about focusing on what the person you love needs rather than what you need or want. That’s what Alec was trying to do for her by leaving, except he didn’t realize that what she needed was him.
“Alec, Rob Salvetti showed up and already fell in love with the scallops. If we play our cards right, this could be a coup!” Before Alec could say anything, Colby turned to Mr. Morgan. “I’ll give you a minute alone, but then I’m sure Alec needs to attend to the kitchen.”
She turned and tried to sneak to her office unnoticed, but Todd followed her, tissue outstretched.
“What’s wrong, Colby?” He clasped his hands in front of his body.
“Everything and nothing.”
“Riddles?” Todd leaned against her desk.
“It’s complicated. Things with Alec look grim.”
“You don’t have to confide in me, but just remember, I’m here for you. And I’m about as uncomplicated as you can get.” He grinned in his friendly way, and she knew he meant well.
“That’s exactly what Alec said about you when he ended things. He thinks I’m better off with someone less encumbered than him.”
“He’s smarter than he looks,” Todd teased, and then turned earnest. “He must be a good man to be willing to walk away for your sake.”
“He is a good man.” She looked at the empty spot on her desk where the bud vase had been.
“And you love him.”
She nodded. “I do.”
Todd patted her shoulder. “It sucks to be me. But I hope you get your happy ending, Colby.”
She hugged him. “You are a dear, dear man and friend.”
“Like I said, sucks to be me.” Todd nodded toward the door. “We should get back to our foundation party.”
“Yes. Let’s fire up the auction and raise some money.” She didn’t know where the foundation would lead, or what would happen with Alec in the long run, so for now, she would simply take one step at a time.
Alec couldn’t clean the kitchen fast enough. He wanted everyone out so he could speak to Colby.
He’d watched her negotiate resolutions for most of her life, yet he’d never have thought she’d be the one to broker peace in his family. She’d done it, and now he wondered why he’d ever doubted her. On top of that, her machinations might’ve taken a step toward salvaging his reputation. He’d met with Mr. Salvetti at the end of the evening, who’d offered some much-needed and effusive praise.
Alec tossed his hat and coat aside and shut off the lights. Colby’s office was dark, and only one set of sconces remained on in the dining room. The crew would come through in the morning to finish cleaning and set up for Wednesday’s dinner service.
She’d gone. Of course she had. He’d given her no reason to wait.
Maybe it was for the best, because he didn’t quite know what he’d say if she were here. He glanced around the front of the house, remembering the hope he’d experienced the first time he’d walked through its doors. The breathtaking beauty of the space. The pristine kitchen. The calming effect of the lake views.
For a while, he’d almost had everything he’d ever wanted. He should’ve trusted himself more, and trusted her. Instead, he’d resigned.
When he finally returned to his apartment, he found his mother zipping her suitcase.
“You’re going home?”
“It’s time.” She set the suitcase on its wheels. “I’ve imposed on you long enough. I know it was only a small step, but it took a lot for Frank to swallow his pride and to show up tonight. He’s never been one to gush, but he’s apologizing the best he can at this point, and I have to hope it will get easier. Somewhere in there is the man I married, so I need to take a step, too. That’s how marriage works. How love works. You have to forgive. You have to remember that it isn’t always easy. And you have to fight for love, too.”
“Not too subtle.”
“Maybe not, but I don’t think Colby would’ve confronted your dad if she didn’t love you.” She reached into her purse for her keys. “You have a chance to make every one of your dreams come true. Don’t let pride or doubt get in your way.” She hoisted her luggage off the floor.
“I’ll get that.”
“No. You sit and make some decisions about your own life. I can take care of myself, Alec. You don’t need to worry about me anymore.” She kissed his forehead. “Stop living in the past and dwelling on mistakes. We’ve all made them. And now we’re all trying to heal. It’ll take a lot of patience and compassion, but we’ll get there. Don’t let history define your future. Think about your priorities. What, or who, is most important to you? Answer that question and then make a plan. I love you, and I’ll be with you every step of the way.”
“I love you, too.” He hugged her tightly, then closed the door behind her.
He stared at it once she’d left him alone. He’d spent most of his life fairly comfortable in his loneliness, but now the silence rang loudly in his ears and wrapped around him like an icy blanket. He wandered to his room and stretched out on his bed. The picture Colby had given him months ago stared at him accusingly. What, or who, is most important to you? Answer that question and then make a plan. The answer was obvious; he’d be an idiot to even pretend it was a close call. But he’d blown it, and he knew it. The only way he deserved another chance was if he came up with a plan.
Colby opened the door to the restaurant, determined to run through the list of chefs Alec had given her before the gala three nights ago. Chris had steered them through the past couple of evenings, but she couldn’t put off those calls any longer, especially if she wanted to dedicate more time to the foundation.
As soon as she stepped inside, she stopped. A dozen tightly packed vases of white tulips and pink peonies were scattered throughout the small entry. Her hands went to her cheeks as she took several hesitant steps toward the dining room. “Alec?”
No one answered. She continued her slow journey to her office, her heart beating a little faster with each step. Her door was closed, as usual. She opened it, wondering what surprise might be waiting inside. The aroma of additional flower arrangements nearly knocked her over, but what weakened her knees was seeing Alec in the middle of the room.
“You look tired,” she said without thinking.
“You look beautiful.” He fidgeted with the pencil he’d been twirling. “I hear the gala raised a bundle.”
“Not too shabby for a first try.” She couldn’t keep the pride from her voice, even though it wasn’t really what she wanted to discuss.
“There’s never been anything that you couldn’t do once you made a commitment.”
“We both know that’s not entirely true.” But she was done dwelling on her failures. “I hope you didn’t raid our donations to buy all these flowers,” she teased.
“Not to worry. This is all me.” He gestured around at the arrangements. “I wanted to surround you with things you love.”
She wished he wouldn’t say things like that if he didn’t plan to stick it out with her. “I’m surprised you’re here bearing gifts. If anything, I thought you might be angry.”
“Angry?”
“About the way I interfered with your family.”
“Grateful, Colby. Not angry.”
“It’s the least I could do. I should’ve been a better friend to you a long time ago. Maybe I could’ve helped you and Joe. But if I made some small difference with you and your dad, then that’s something.”
“More than something.” He pitched forward, as if he wanted to get closer, then straightened again. “We’ve called a truce. It’s strained, but better than it was a week ago. It won’t be easy, but it’s my family, so I’m willing to try. With time, who knows?”
It felt odd to talk about such intimate things while standing so far apart, but she didn’t want to presume anything. The flowers might not be a romantic gesture at all, but just a show of deep gratitude. That thought made her heart sink. “I was planning to go through the list of chefs you gave me. Is there anyone in particular you think I should call first?”
“Yes.” He hesitated. “Me.”
“Is this also part of your plan to surround me with things I love?”
“Or, in this case, things that love you.” He stepped closer, breathing a little heavier, or was that her?
“You said we couldn’t work together because of our different visions. You said you couldn’t make me happy. You said—”
“I know what I said. And now I’m admitting that I was an idiot. We started this relationship off with one hand tied behind our backs by grief and guilt. I know we can do better. I can do better. Will you let me try? I love you, Colby. You’re more important than any of the rest of it. Maybe Salvetti will write a nice piece for Saveur, maybe not. Everything that went down with my dad, Joe, us—well, let’s say I’ve revised my perspective on accolades. I’ll still strive for them because I like the competition, but if I have to choose between my career and my heart, I choose my heart and fried chicken.”
She fought the smile trying to reveal itself. “You don’t have to choose.”
His shoulders slumped. “I’m too late, then.”
“Sort of.” Then she placed her hands on his chest. “These past weeks I’ve realized that A CertainTea doesn’t give me the intrinsic rewards that delivering that check to the Burnside Shelter did. When I think about how much good the foundation might do if I focused more of my energy there, I get so excited. So you don’t have to choose because I’m no longer wedded to my vision for this place. I’ll be happy to let you take charge and make your dreams come true with less interference from me so I can spend more energy on helping our community.”
His arms snaked around her waist. “So I’m rehired?”
She nodded and he kissed her, finally. Another perfect kiss that went a long way toward filling up all the emptiness his absence had created.
He pulled away and smiled. “Guess I didn’t need my backup plan.”
“Now I’m curious.”
He tossed an envelope on the desk and grinned. “Something to sweeten the pot.”
She eyed it and him, then lifted it up for inspection.
“Unless you have X-ray vision, you might want to open it,” he suggested.
She tore into it to retrieve two tickets to a Maroon 5 concert in LA in six weeks.
“It’s not exactly meeting Adam Levine,” he began, “but it’s as close as I could get to that particular bucket-list item. I still have six weeks, and I’m leaning on a pal who might be able to get backstage passes.”
“Really?” She grinned.
“I can’t promise that part.” Then he turned serious, his thumbs brushing her cheeks. “I can promise that I’ll never quit on us again. Of all the bad ideas I’ve had and lies I’ve told, telling you I could walk away was the biggest of them all. Now we have no secrets or half-truths between us. Every day from now on, I promise to share everything with you.”
She dropped the envelope on the desk and kissed him again, letting the rush of heat race back into her heart after a week of being in a deep freeze.
“I’m sorry,” he said between kisses. “I’m sorry I let you down.”
“No more apologies.” She kissed him again while straining to unbutton his shirt. An ill-timed knock at the door interrupted their reunion.
“Go away!” Alec barked at the closed door at the same time she called out, “Come in.”
Chris peeked into the office, eyes widening with surprise at finding Alec. “We’ve got a problem with the halibut.”
Colby looked at him and smiled with a shrug.
“I’ll be there in a minute,” Alec replied.
“You’re back, then?” Chris asked.
“I am,” Alec said. “But thank you for keeping things going in my absence. It won’t go unappreciated.”
“Sure thing.” Chris nodded and left them alone.
Alec squeezed her to his chest. “Thank you for not giving up on me. I was worried I’d taken too long to wise up.”
“I love you, Alec. And some wise women have convinced me that it’s never too late for love.”