Consequences(223)

—Keri Russell





Chapter Forty-Six


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Tony’s lecture regarding his gift came on the plane ride home. It started as operational instructions, which Claire considered this futile; she’d received her first cell phone in middle school and knew how to dial a number, answer a call, send a text message, and receive one. Nevertheless, his lessons did contain useful information—her telephone was linked to his computer and iPhone. If she received a call or text—he received a notification. If she sent a text or made a call—he received a notification. He even had an application allowing him to access telephone numbers and the entire content of text messages. Claire told herself—compartmentalize—she had a cell phone.

He instructed her to only answer calls from numbers programmed into her phone with an asterisk. Examples—*Tony Cellular—*Home Private—and *Eric. There were other numbers programmed into her phone—Emily cell, John V. Cell, Vandersol home, Courtney S., MaryAnn F., etc. They could leave voicemails or texts and then, together they’d listen or read and decide appropriate responses. Claire obediently listened and sighed, this is ridiculous!

“You asked for me to be able to contact you directly. This will accomplish what you asked.”

She pressed her lips together, he’s right—I did and it will. She wanted more! Deciding to capitalize on the Christmas spirit, she pushed, “Maybe I could at least text Courtney and Sue back immediately—I mean—after all—didn’t you say you can read the texts in real time from your iPhone?” Her husband made a fortune with the Internet, he had technology which allowed him to watch, listen, and monitor her every move—she knew that.

He contemplated his answer. “We’ll start with my rules. After a time, we can revisit them.”

She submitted. He hadn’t closed the subject. It was a minor victory—or a minor defeat. Either way, it wasn’t the end of the war.


They celebrated New Year’s Eve at their home with friends. The Simmons, their son Caleb and his fiancée Julia, Tim and a six-month pregnant Sue, and Tom and Beverly all had a wonderful time. Together, they spent most of the evening in the lower level, playing cards and pool, drinking champagne, talking, and laughing.

Courtney couldn’t contain her enthusiasm regarding their son’s engagement. Julia appeared overwhelmed by her overly zealous future mother-in-law. Claire couldn’t help herself. She offered Julia some advice, “Smile and give in. It makes life a lot easier.” Although the young couple hadn’t set a date for their wedding, Courtney told Claire she may have more charitable responsibilities this year. Courtney planned on helping Julia as much as possible with the wedding. Claire read Julia’s expression and whispered in her ear, “I promise to talk to her later.”

Julia smiled. “Thank you.”

Tim and Sue’s baby was due March 20—all the women oowwd and ahhhed at Sue’s growing midsection. It made Claire think, she and Tony had never discussed children. About six months before she met Tony, she had the birth control insert implanted. In hindsight, that’d been fortuitous; however, considering Tony’s age, maybe it was a subject they should discuss.


Together, they all welcomed the New Year with enthusiasm. “To another great year for everyone and for Rawlings Industries!” Everyone tapped glasses. Claire and Tony both told the Simmons how fantastic Fiji would be. Claire added, “We can’t wait to hear all about it”—then she smiled—“Well, not all about it.”