Chapter 56
Baby Steps
“To whom were you whispering?” Celia asked, wheeling out of the bedroom. Her mother smiled at her.
“Your dad. What are you doing up so bright and early, and what in the world is that on your cast?”
Roger stepped out of the bedroom and answered, “It’s a trash bag so Sis can shower. I think I’ve put enough tape on there so it won’t get wet. It was Mike’s idea. He said it worked for him.”
“That man is something else. Is he around?”
“He’s upstairs,” Celia said. “We’re going to the dealership where he thinks I can get a job. Then we’re going out for some fun.”
“Really? Fun?” her mother asked. “Are you going on a date?”
“Okay, Mom. Don’t start hearing wedding bells. It’s just an outing. I’m not even sure we should call it a date.”
“Sure you should,” Roger said, “and be yourself. He likes you for some reason so don’t blow this.”
“Thanks. I love you, too.”
“You’re welcome,” Roger said, kissing her on the forehead. “I’ve done my part. Mom you get in there and help her take that shower, she reeks.”
“I do not. I’ve had a mini-bath every day.”
“It’s good to see the two of you still love each other,” their mother said. “Now come on, let’s get you cleaned up. And I agree with Roger, this is a date so be yourself and have some fun. You deserve it.”
After the pep talk her mother gave her, Celia was nervous. She was going out on what could be considered a date with Martin’s best friend. What was she thinking? Neither of them spoke as he pulled away from the family dealership, but Celia’s mind was reeling.
It wasn’t the money or the position; it was the man. He told her what he thought. He didn’t hold back, and unlike other men in the past, she liked Mike. They were friends and they could laugh together. Would that make falling in love better or just ruin a good friendship if things went wrong?
“What did you think? Did they ask too many questions? I can tell them the topic of your past is off limits.”
“No, they were fine. I don’t mind mild curiosity. For the most part, I think that will be over. That’s something I’d never even thought about. Before I was always with Martin and the press would just take pictures of us. If they asked questions, he was the one who answered.”
“I could probably dye my hair or wear a wig. You would be surprised at what just a hat and sunglasses would do for Martin.”
“I know. I’ve been out with him to get pizza and he wasn’t even recognized. And, might I add, it’s good that you can mention his name without that terrible scowl.”
“I’m trying though it’s not always easy.”
“Baby steps and you’ll get there. Now, where are we going to find this new dress?”
“I don’t want you spending more money. I’ll bet you think I dated Martin for his money. It wasn’t like that, not really. My aunt always told me I could love a rich man as easily as a poor man. I told you about my mother and her marriage. I figured if I’m going to be married, why not have a man who could give me what I wanted? I know it’s sad, but it never entered my mind to marry just for love.”
“That is sad. I was taught that’s the only reason you get married, and to never settle until I was sure I was in love with the right woman. I’ve decided I’m not sure she’s out there.”
“We’re a fine pair to be going out on a date. We’re both so messed up if we did fall in love, I doubt if we’d even know it.” Celia laughed feeling embarrassed that she always seemed to say just exactly what was on her mind with this man.
“So . . . this is a date?”
“I said all of that, and that’s your only comment?”
Mike shrugged. “I know what you’re saying, but I also know I’m tired of everyone around me getting married and having kids. I don’t like living alone. I want someone to grow old with. I’m always the odd man out because I don’t have a date or a spouse.”
“I remember that feeling, but there are plenty of singles in the same boat. We just need to find them.”
“I’d rather find the right person, but for now, don’t worry about it. We’re getting you that new dress and a new ‘do’. If we don’t go back to the mansion with you looking spiffy, I’ll have to answer to your mother.”
Celia laughed. “Are you sure? I don’t want to be a burden.”
“If you want to, consider it an investment.”
“How so?” she asked, unsure where this was going.
“I have an idea that you’re going to sell a lot of cars, and that of course, will pay me back and then some.”
“In that case, I’ll add a new pair of shoes and a manicure. You can go see a movie while you wait.”
Mike smiled. “Suits me. Now, where to?”
Three hours later Celia dialed Mike to come and pick her up. Her hair had been washed and styled. Her fingers and toes were done and the stylist also did her make-up. She was definitely feeling pretty. A part of her pride had been hurt when Martin had left her for ‘the help’. A night out with a handsome man was just what she needed!
She was wearing her new shoes . . . well, a new shoe on one foot; the other one would have to wait. Since she would be in a wheelchair and wouldn’t be doing any walking, she’d purchased a pair of golden beige multi metallic peep toe booties with a 2 ½” covered block heel. They matched perfectly with the two-toned metallic silk shawl she had purchased to complete her outfit.
The soft azure blue ponte knit maxi skirt she had picked out would cover her cast easily. The fabric was a dream and the matching long sleeved lace blouse fit her perfectly.
A smile came to her lips as she watched Mike approach. He’d slipped away and changed clothes. He was dressed in hunter green slacks, a moss green shirt with a white and hunter green hexagon printed tie and brown leather Italian loafers. Wow! He looked like a model ready to walk down the runway!
After Mike got her settled in the vehicle, they exchanged compliments and were on their way to the Chef’s Banquet. She’d read great reviews about the place but had never been there. While dating Martin, they had to be somewhat selective about where they went. She doubted if many people would recognize her without her being on Martin’s arm. She would miss the notoriety but she would also enjoy being a normal person again.
Celia’s mind moved from Martin and she kept glancing at Mike wondering what he expected of the night, if anything. After all, she was out of commission for anything other than kissing. Then again, he didn’t seem like the type to expect more than a delicious meal and interesting conversation.