Consequences(172)

Sitting in the passenger seat, Claire buckled her seat belt and straightened her posture. She knew what she would say, “Courtney, thank you for your support. You’re right. I’ve been overwhelmed by the responsibility of becoming Tony’s wife. He’s been supportive and understanding and is helping me recognize the significance of and the obligations accompanying that title. I’m sure he’ll be happy to know you’re willing to help me, too.”


Courtney understood—Claire had just ended the conversation. “I’m glad you’re feeling better about it. Just know that sometimes women pick up on things men don’t—even very observant men. I hope it’ll help you to know I’m quite perceptive, and I’m here for you whenever you need me.”

Claire thanked her again and asked her a question about the Red Cross. While driving, Courtney asked if Claire and Tony had special plans for Tony’s birthday, this weekend. Claire was taken aback. She didn’t know it was her husband’s birthday; however, he hadn’t known it was her birthday either.

“I don’t believe we do. Tony seems to be very low-key about birthdays.”

Courtney declared it was settled, they would do something together. She told Claire about a bar in Rock Island with live music, good food, and a fun atmosphere. Courtney thought it would be good for all of them. Claire promised to discuss it with Tony and let her know. They debated the best day; Tony’s birthday was on Saturday. Either Friday or Saturday would work for the Simmons. When Claire got out of the car she invited Courtney inside—Courtney declined.

Claire leaned over and hugged her. “Thank you for everything”—she looked directly into Courtney’s caring blue eyes—“I’m looking forward to helping you and you helping me.” She grabbed her Prada handbag and the charity information.

Catherine let her know Mr. Rawlings would be home for dinner in her suite at seven. Suite meant casual, but Claire decided she wanted to make the night special. She wanted him to know how grateful she was for the small freedom. She also knew she’d experienced an excellent opportunity to upset him and avoided it. She wouldn’t share that information—but in her mind it gave them more reason for celebration.

Tony was pleasantly surprised by Claire’s appreciation and enthusiasm. When she showed him the schedule of committee meetings he said it would be a week-by-week decision. Circumstances can change; however, he didn’t anticipate any glitches—she didn’t either.

During dinner she mentioned, “I learned a secret about you today.”

“I wasn’t aware I had any secrets from you.”

Claire smiled. “I learned Saturday is your birthday.”

His eyes darkened and his jaw clenched. “I thought since I missed your special day—we could miss mine.”

“Well, Courtney thinks we should all go to the Rock Island Brew Company.”

“I know the place—I’ve been there.”

Claire waited for him to agree to the celebration. Finally, she asked, “I promised Courtney I’d get back to her about it, would you like to go Friday night or Saturday night?” His agitated expression made her uncomfortable. She realized this was a subject he didn’t want to continue. “Or, would you rather I told her we’ll celebrate on our own?”

“I will think about it and get back to Courtney”—the discussion was done and Claire didn’t know their plans.


The next evening Claire sat surrounded by papers when Tony entered her suite. Dressed and ready for dinner, she was completely absorbed in the financial information of the Iowa Red Cross. He looked at her mess and placed two large leather-bound photo albums on top of her papers. Claire looked at the albums and then at her husband. “Good evening, what are these?”