Treacherous Memories

Treacherous Memories

Lynette S. Jones

Copyright © 2015 by Lynette Jones

Smashwords Edition

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead is entirely coincidental.

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the author, except for the use of brief quotations as in a book review.

For more information about Lynette S. Jones please visit Lynette's webpage at LynetteSJones.com. Like Lynette Jones on Facebook, follow her on Goodreads, or send questions, remarks, or requests to LynetteSJonesPublishing@gmail.com.

Acknowledgement: Thank you to all my family who allow me to follow my dreams.

CHAPTER 1

Emma limped to a stop, leaning on the functional metal cane in her hand as she caught her breath. A broad-shouldered, husky man, whose face habitually wore an expression of encouragement, came to a stop beside her. The courtyard of the nursing home stretched out around them, the white ribbons of sidewalk sectioned the green like spokes of a wheel converging into a hub at the center of the courtyard. Emma and the therapist rested near one of eight benches that lined the octagonal shaped hub.

You're doing great Emma, said Dan, leaning against the back of a bench and covertly assessing his patient's fatigue. Are you ready to call it quits for the day?

Maybe just a little longer, replied Emma, wiping the perspiration from her heart-shaped face and pushing her short, black curls away from her forehead. Even though the breeze swirling around them had turned the afternoon chilly, the exertion had left her sweating and exhausted. Fall was in the air and already the trees were touched with yellows and browns. The sound of leaves scurrying mixed with the scraping of walkers and feet as patients here adjusted to a new way of life. I spend so much time inside, I want to enjoy the afternoon for a few more minutes."

Once you get home, you'll be able to enjoy it all you want.

I really want to go home. Emma glanced toward the arched gates blockading the tree-lined drive.

I can't say as I blame you. If I didn't work here, I wouldn't want to hang around here, either.

Emma smiled, her expressive mouth pulling crookedly to the right at Dan's familiar quip. To believe Dan, Croulliers was a hell-hole to be avoided at any cost and if you were unlucky enough to be there, you should do anything you could to make your stay a short one. Unfortunately, her stay hadn't been short and there were many times she secretly believed Croulliers was indeed a living hell.

Tanya had ensured her year and a half recovery was a lonely one. No one had been able to visit unless Tanya approved them and she hadn't approved anyone. It hadn't bothered Emma not to have friends come to visit the first six months. She might not even have known them if they had come. The swelling pressing on her brain had caused some temporary amnesia.

The second six months had been harder. Even though the doctors and therapists had kept her busy, she found herself wanting some companionship besides the hospital staff. But Tanya had been adamant. No visitors.

Emma would have liked to believe it was because Tanya was worried about her safety, that Tanya was protecting her from the person who'd tried to kill her. But she knew Tanya too well.

It was far more likely that Tanya didn't want any of her friends to tell her what was happening to Delacorte Designs now that she wasn't there to curb her older sister’s extravagant impulses.

For the last six months, Emma had effectively been a prisoner at Croulliers. She'd been well enough to go home, had someone been willing to keep an eye on her, if someone had been willing to help her. But there was no one. Tanya was too busy with the business and no one else had been allowed near. So, she had struggled on alone and now she was ready to leave.

Tanya couldn't stop her, she told herself again. No one could. She wouldn't let them. She was going home.

What she would find when she arrived, was another question. Emma hadn't been too worried about the business while Edward Buchart, Tanya's fiancé, had been overseeing the operation. But he hadn't been around for several months. Tanya had thrown him out of Delacorte and her life at the same time.

Emma should have seen it coming. Tanya never kept men around very long. Why she'd actually accepted Edward's proposal of marriage was something of a mystery.

Probably because Tanya could use him as a lever to push her further away from the business, thought Emma cynically.

It was no secret Tanya wanted complete control of Delacorte Designs. If she could have found a way to legally strip Emma of the money her parents left her, Emma would never have been a partner. But it was her money and Tanya didn't have any choice.

Emma had insisted on partnership before she'd turned her money over to Tanya. Her sister had spent the next five years trying to dislodge her from the position. She must have seen this accident as a blessing from God. It had done what Tanya hadn't managed to do since Delacorte opened. It gave her complete control of the business and after Edward was gone, Tanya didn't have to be accountable to anyone. Even Evan Kendall, the other designer in the business, couldn't stop Tanya from doing exactly as she pleased.

Sighing with displeasure, Emma shifted her slight weight and readjusted her grasp on her cane. There was a very real possibility she would be going home to find a business on the verge of financial ruin and a sister who would do everything she could to keep Emma from doing anything about it.

It would be a blow to lose Delacorte, she told herself honestly.

Despite her initial reluctance to get involved in the business, Emma had found she enjoyed owning her own company and operating it successfully. She would survive financially. She'd made sure of that, knowing her sister's penchant for acting first and thinking later. But it would be hard to go back to square one. She was tired of starting over again. All she wanted was to go home and pick up her life where she’d left it a year and a half ago.

Are you ready to go in? Dan prodded her again and she started guiltily. How long had she been standing around mooning over her problems? You wouldn't want to miss your appointment with the doctor.

You're right, replied Emma. This is one appointment I don't want to miss.

Emma watched nervously as Dr. Steven Paul entered his latest notation in her file. Well, that's that, he said, placing the last period with a flourish of his pen. Everything looks to be in order. Your release papers will be ready in the morning. Putting the file to one side of his desk, he leaned forward on his elbows, pushing his thick glasses up on his pug nose. Are you sure you're ready to go? This is a big step, leaving Croulliers. There won't be anyone to help you if you get into trouble at home.

They'd had this discussion more than once, in one form or another. Dr. Paul was reluctant to let her go home to an empty house. Although she was grateful for his concern, Emma wasn't going to let him stop her from leaving. I'm sure lots of patients at Croulliers don't have anyone to help them at home. If they can survive, I'm sure I can, too.

Those patients weren't intentionally run down by a car, countered Dr. Paul with a frown. The police never found the person who tried to kill you.

You don't seriously believe that person will come after me again, do you? asked Emma in surprise. The police basically told me it was probably just some kid out to prove something and I was unlucky enough to be picked as his victim.

Emma shifted uncomfortably in her chair. She didn't like talking about the accident. It brought back too many painful memories and too many unanswered questions.

As much as she wanted to believe the police detective who’d handled her case, Emma had a hard time believing that someone simply picked her at random to kill. But she couldn't come up with a reason why anyone would want to kill her, either. It had to be one way or the other.

If she had to choose, she'd just as soon choose the police detective's explanation. Then she wouldn't have to be concerned about returning to an empty house, alone. She wouldn't have to worry about who'd tried to kill her, or why. She wouldn’t have to worry if they were going to try again. Most importantly, she'd much rather believe the police detective and push whatever doubts she had about the accident aside.

Picking up his pen, Dr. Paul twirled it through his agile fingers absently. I know what the police said, he began before looking up. I also know your thoughts and memories weren't a hundred percent when the police questioned you. You haven't remembered everything surrounding the accident including what you were doing out on the street at that time of night in the first place. The detective might change his opinion if he had more information.

Emma leaned back stiffly in her chair. He might. And it’s just as possible that if I remembered what I was doing wandering the street, he would come to the same conclusion he came to a year ago.

Dr. Paul conceded her point. I can't help being concerned about you, Emma. I didn't spend the last year and a half fixing you up, to see you end up back here, or worse.

A shiver of apprehension shook Emma slightly. I don't plan on ever returning to Croulliers. I've seen enough of this place to last a life time. I promise I'll be on the lookout for anything suspicious, she added for the doctor's benefit. And I'll call the police if anything seems to be out of the ordinary. But I'm not going to stay here, simply because we don't know the reason for my accident. Nothing was going to make her stay here one day longer. By this time tomorrow, she was going to be in her own home, in her own bed.

I'd feel better if you had someone staying with you.

Is there someone you can suggest? asked Emma. Tanya? Somehow, I don't think I'd be any safer with her in the house.

Dr. Paul frowned. Isn't there someone else you could ask?

Emma went through the list of the people she knew mentally. She didn't know very many people she'd call friends. Most were acquaintances she'd met through work or at one of Tanya's famous all night parties. Unlike Tanya, who called everyone she'd ever met a friend and didn't hesitate to use them if the need arose, Emma tended to choose her friends carefully and was reluctant to impose on them. Now that she could use a friend, she realized she didn't have one she felt she could call on for help. Tanya's world was not her world, even though she'd been living in it for the last ten years.

Not by choice, at least not at first. Emma had been thrust into her sister's wild world when her parents died. Tanya had shown up at the hospital after their parents had been killed in an automobile accident and taken Emma home with her. Giving her a place to stay was the extent of Tanya's compassion for her sixteen year old sister. They'd never been close and Tanya didn't share Emma's love for her parents. She wasn't interested in Emma's grief, nor was she tolerant of it. Emma was supposed to get on with her life and interfere in her older sister's affairs as little as possible.

With the exception of her work at Delacorte, Emma had done her best to comply with her sister's wishes, but doing so had its cost. She'd spent so many years avoiding Tanya's friends she'd never made any of her own. As the years passed, she'd become increasingly reserved as she became aware of what kind of people Tanya called friends. They weren't the sort to be trusted with private feelings or secrets.

At some point, Emma had stopped trusting everyone and no one had bothered to take the time to break down her wall of reserve to find the person hiding inside. Dr. Paul had seen that person, only because she'd had no choice but to trust him.

Lowering her eyes so the doctor couldn't see her loneliness reflected in her eyes, Emma shook her head. There is no one. I've always taken care of myself. I'll manage this time.

Dr. Paul placed his pen on his desk deliberately. Well, it's your decision. There's no medical reason to keep you here any longer. He stood and waited for Emma to awkwardly get to her feet. I'll want to see you in three months and I've arranged for you to continue your physical therapy at a clinic closer to your home. If you don't have any questions? Emma shook her head. Then I'll say goodbye now. Emma took the hand he offered her. Good luck.

Thanking him, Emma grasped her cane and started for the door. If you ever need anything, the doctor added as she turned for a last look before she left, don't be afraid to ask.

Struggling to a sitting position, Emma switched on the night light above her head and wiped away the tears that lingered on her lashes. The remaining traces of loneliness and loss were harder to banish.

It was only a dream, she said aloud, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. It was only a dream.

Blue eyes that said they loved her, arms that protected her and held her gently. She had lost so much. Tears welled in her eyes again as she held on to the last traces of the dream, savoring the love, feeling the loss.

It was only a dream, she said again, forcing herself to let the images fade into the reality of the night. There was no blue-eyed lover out there waiting for her and now, with the way she was, there never would be.

CHAPTER 2

Turning the key in the deadbolt, Emma pushed open the door and then bent to retrieve the bags of groceries she'd placed on the floor. The musty smell of disuse still greeted her, despite the open windows, as she stepped inside her apartment. Tossing her keys on the table by the door, she struggled taking the groceries to the kitchen.

All in all, it had been a disappointing homecoming. She didn't know what she'd been expecting, but she had been expecting more than a lonely trek home and an empty apartment.

Tanya had left a message at the nurses’ station that she wouldn't be able to make it to Croulliers that morning. Something unexpected had delayed her. Instead, she had Emma's car delivered and Emma had to drive herself home.

She’d arrived home, exhausted from the unaccustomed exertion, to find nothing had been prepared for her return. The furniture was still covered, the beds unmade, and the refrigerator empty.

It was probably asking too much for Tanya to prepare her house for her, thought Emma wearily. After all, she was only her sister and not an especially loved one at that.

Still, it had made an already difficult homecoming harder. Not only did she have to make the beds and uncover the furniture when all she wanted to do was drop into bed and sleep, she’d had to go back out and buy food. Opening the refrigerator, Emma began to put the groceries away. She’d told Dr. Paul she could take care of herself and she would, no matter how difficult it turned out to be.

I see you made it home in one piece.

With a startled gasp, Emma twirled around to face her unexpected visitor. The woman facing Emma was an older slightly taller version of herself. But that was where the similarity ended. Tanya's green, silk pantsuit, with gold thread running through it, caught the light as much as the woman who wore it. Compared to her, Emma was a shadow in her dark blue sweat pants and t-shirt.

Yes, I did, replied Emma, willing her heartbeat to return to normal. It would have been easier if the tall, blonde Englishman standing next to Tanya hadn't been there. The muscles in Emma's stomach tightened convulsively. She might know this man was no good, but she couldn't deny the physical attraction between them. Once, she’d believed herself in love with him. She wasn't as naive anymore. How could she love someone who was only using her for his own gain?

The door was open, so we let ourselves in. I hope you don't mind? Clearly not caring whether Emma minded or not, Tanya removed her jacket, to reveal a large amount of tanned skin beneath the halter top of the pant suit, and sank gracefully into the chair Ian held for her.

Not at all, replied Emma, wiping her hands on the towel hanging from the refrigerator door handle. If you'd shown up a few minutes earlier, you could have helped me put the groceries away.

We timed it just right then, didn't we? Tanya drew a cigarette from her pack with a smile, lighting it with an expensive gold lighter. We just stopped by to say welcome home.

Thank you. It's good to be home. Emma tried not to let her bitterness show. It was ironic to be welcomed home by a woman who would have preferred her to stay nicely locked away in her nursing home and not by any of the people she had called friends.

You've been missed around the office, added Ian, settling into the chair next to Tanya. Brendon and Evan said to tell you they would try to stop by later in the day.

Ian's eyes touched her briefly, taking in her changed appearance. Emma faced his appraisal openly. Her looks had changed drastically since she'd been with Ian. Where once she'd tended toward soft curves she was now honed muscle. Her long, straight hair was now short and curly. Altogether, she could have passed for a different woman. In many ways, she was a different woman than the one he'd known.

I like the new look. It suits you.

Tanya raised her eyebrows skeptically at him. Do you think so? I thought she looked rather the worse for wear.

Did you, my love? asked Ian, using the term of endearment he used to reserve for Emma. Perhaps that's because you're her sister and therefore more critical of her. Ian reached over and took a cigarette from Tanya's pack.

Emma was glad she'd thrown open all the windows. She was also glad she was over her infatuation with Ian, or the subtle interplay between the two might have bothered her. It was meant to upset her, she was sure. Tanya wouldn't be able to resist the urge to flaunt her newest lover, especially since he was Emma's old lover. Tanya had always needed to prove to Emma she was superior in every way.

Wondering briefly if Tanya knew why Ian was being so attentive to her, Emma resisted the urge to explain it to her. If Tanya didn't know, she would soon enough. Ian would have to approach Tanya with his business proposition soon. Emma didn't think Tanya would go for it any more than she had. Selling Delacorte to the British firm Ian worked for so they could use Delacorte as a U.S. base for their exports wasn't part of the plan Tanya had for her company. Neither was marrying Ian, if Emma was any judge of her sister. He was an interesting diversion to her, nothing more.

For a passing moment, Emma almost felt sorry for Ian. Then, she remembered how he had manipulated her emotions and called herself a fool for allowing herself to still have any kind of feelings for the man, even if it was only pity.

Would you like something to drink?

Oh no, we're not going to stay that long. Tanya tapped her painted nails impatiently on the table. We just stopped by to see if you'd arrived safely and tell you we're expecting you back at the office tomorrow.

Tomorrow? asked Emma in surprise.

I know it's rushing you a bit. But you did say you were well enough to go back to work months ago.

A fact you totally ignored months ago, countered Emma crossly.

I didn't need you then, Tanya shrugged. Now I do. Something's come up.

Emma's eyes strayed to Ian, but nothing in his manner suggested his proposition was the matter in question. Surely whatever it is can wait until Monday?

Tanya knocked the ash off the end of her cigarette carefully before she answered. The auditors will be here on Monday. I need some answers before they come.

Auditors? Emma's eyebrows went up. What have you done, Tanya?

Trusted Edward, Tanya snapped back. I didn't do anything wrong.

Are you trying to tell me Edward embezzled money?

Tanya shrugged her shoulders and drew in a mouthful of smoke, exhaling before she answered. Some money has come up missing. Whether Edward took it or just mismanaged it, I couldn't say. That's for you to say.

I was afraid something like this was going to happen while I was gone. Emma raked her fingers through her hair.

Why is that, little sister? Tanya's tone turned venomous. Don't you think I can handle the business on my own?

She's coming to me, the minute I'm home, telling me the business is in trouble, thought Emma cynically. Why should I think she can't handle the business?

Maybe she simply didn't trust Edward as much as you did, my love? Ian leaned back in his chair, bored indifference on his face.

Whatever prompted him to interject his comment, Emma was glad he’d interfered. She didn't want to fight with Tanya.

It doesn't really matter at this point, does it? replied Tanya, throwing Ian a scathing look, but refraining from striking out at him as she had at Emma. Clearly she was less inclined to fight with Ian than with her sister. What we need to do now is find out what's wrong and fix it.

Absolutely, agreed Ian magnanimously. We need to do whatever it takes to fix it."

Emma had a good idea what Ian's solution would be. Tanya had inadvertently fallen right into his hands. If Edward had embezzled funds, Ian's company would offer to cover the theft. In return, Tanya would have to let his company take over control of Delacorte.

I'll do what I can, Tanya. But at this point, there may not be much we can do. How much money are we talking about?

It amounts to about half-a-million dollars.

Emma grasped the handle of her cane tighter and reached for a chair. Half a million–, she repeated in disbelief as she sank into the chair. There's no way we can possibly cover that kind of loss.

We don't have to, if you prove Edward stole it, snapped Tanya irritably.

He was working for us, we'll still be liable. We'll lose everything.

We don't even know for certain the money is missing, Tanya backtracked at Emma's solemn prediction. That's why I need you at the office first thing in the morning. I've asked Brendon to help you. Tapping her fingers impatiently on the table again she continued. "Evan wasn't happy losing him, but this is more important than making sure some shipment arrives on time.

I don't think that's such a good– Ian broke off before finishing his thought, thinking better of incurring Tanya's wrath. But clearly he was concerned that Tanya had postponed Evan's shipment of furniture.

Why should Ian care about Evan's shipment? wondered Emma briefly and then dismissed the thought.

I can count on you being there in the morning, can't I? asked Tanya pointedly ignoring Ian.

Emma nodded. Although she didn't feel she owed Tanya any loyalty, she did owe it to the employees of Delacorte to clear up this matter. If Ian's company took over Delacorte, they would all lose their jobs. Ian's company didn't want Delacorte intact, they just wanted the name. They had their own plans for its use, plans Ian hadn't bothered to explain to her.

Good, said Tanya at Emma's nod. Her mission complete, she rose from the table. We'll leave you to finish getting settled, then. Starting for the door, she left Emma struggling to keep up with her. By the time Emma reached the door, Tanya and Ian were standing in front of the open elevator. With a wave of her hand, Tanya disappeared into the car. Emma waved back, waiting until the doors closed them inside the car before she stepped back into her apartment and locked the door.

So much for her belief Tanya wouldn't ask