Convicted (Consequences)

you.”
    He raised his eyebrows and cocked his head to the side. His tone held a hint of amusement as he leaned toward her. “I should’ve learned—I’m helpless to your beautiful emerald eyes.” Her fingers threaded through the curls on his chest as her gaze lingered on his chocolate eyes.
    In the pool, Claire held tightly to Tony’s shoulders relishing the coolness of the water. Her thoughts went back to the article and her sister and brother-in-law. “I’m so sorry about John and Emily—I hate what they’re doing to Rawlings Industries.”
    “I’ve been watching it too. It seems to me that Tim is doing an excellent job of building confidence in Rawlings Industries from within. He needs that inside support to get the support outside the company. I’ve always had a good feeling about him.”
    “I remember you telling me that, a million years ago, when we went to the Simmons’ barbeque.”
    Tony laughed. “That was a million years ago, wasn’t it?”
    Laying her head against his shoulder, she nodded. “It sure seems like it. Is there any new information from Phil or Agent Jackson?”
    “Well,” he hesitated, causing Claire to look up. Although she couldn’t see his eyes behind his sunglasses, from his secretive smile she knew he was up to something.
    “What?”
    “Phil said he’s been released from his current job. He doesn’t believe Sophia’s in any danger. Catherine has worked very hard to introduce and include herself into Sophia’s life.”
    “Then I’d say she’s in danger.” Claire added quickly, “but not enough for you to go protect her. I need you here.”
    “Yes, you do. You may be pleased to learn who else will be here; let’s say for your Christmas present.”
    Closing her eyes, Claire sighed. “A little Claire or a little Tony would be the best present. I’ve loved most of this—it’s just lately, I’m so tired and uncomfortable.”
    “We really do need to pin down some names. I’m not comfortable with either a little me or a little you”—He smirked—“You see, I really like the big you, and when I think of the name Claire , the feelings that ensue are totally inappropriate for my daughter.”
    “Big?”
    Laughing—“You know what I mean. Now first—back to your Christmas present.”
    “Yes?”
    “Well, it won’t be the exact one. Phil can’t exactly ask Catherine to go through our bedroom, but he did see your wedding band. After all, he’s the one who bought it back and brought it to me.”
    Claire’s voice perked up. “You’re getting me a wedding band for Christmas?”
    “More than that, Phil will be here in less than a week to deliver it. I thought you might enjoy company, and since he’s the only one we can have, my choices were limited.”
    She wrapped her arms around his neck. “I love it! Thank you.” Then she realized. “But wait, what can I get you for Christmas?”
    Kissing her lips, he said, “I’m not picky. A girl—or a boy—would be fine.”
    “I’m not due until the second week of January. Will you take your gift late?”
    “Only under one stipulation.”
    “So, now there are stipulations on gifts?”
    “Yes, my dear, and before you start with that beautiful, smart mouth of yours, let me say that this one isn’t debatable. I must insist upon it.”
    She shrugged. “Rather demanding, but I guess I’m used to it—what do you want?”
    “That nothing happens to you while my gift arrives. I’ve read a few things too. I thought maybe if Phil were here, if we need anything, well, the man is very resourceful.”
    “I’ll be fine”—she kissed his cheek—“but I love that you’re concerned.”
    “My dear, you are my only concern.”
    Claire felt the tightening sensation once again. “Oh, I think someone else wants to be your concern, too.”

 
     
     
    Truth, like gold, is to be obtained not by its growth, but by washing away from it all that is not gold.
    —Count Leo Tolstoy
     
     
     
    September 13, 2016
    Last night, I was too shocked to write. I had to think about what happened, mull it over, and figure it out. By the time I got Claire back to the facility, she was no longer speaking. I don’t understand. She was still hearing me; every now and then her eyes would register and lock onto mine. Then she’d look away.
    I’ve decided she gave me a test. She knows that I know her story. Her recognition of her surroundings is new; it didn’t exist last month, week, or even a day ago. If she isn’t ready