“No. Consider it guilt money. We were so helpless, wanting to do anything to stop what was happening to you -- like you said, it was a risk -- a good risk that paid off.”
Claire hugged her again. “So it’s true, Brent does believe me.”
“I said he did.”
“Yes, I know you said... but he really does. It’s just when he came to the prison…”
Courtney interrupted, “Tony warned him. He said the tapes from those visitors’ rooms were available for a price. He told Brent the visit was strictly business.”
“Did Tony ever watch the video?”
Courtney smiled, “I don’t know. Brent hoped he would.”
“Why?”
“Because, when Brent came home he was so impressed by you. He didn’t know what to expect and didn’t want to face you.”
“He didn’t have a choice, did he?”
“No, he didn’t. Yet, afterwards he was glad he went. He talked about your strength, resilience, and determination. I don’t know if you remember, but you told him to tell Tony to bring on the liable case, that you’d be glad to testify to a larger audience.” Claire grinned and nodded, she’d said that. “Of course, Tony wouldn’t tell Brent what warranted such a case, but Brent knew. He also knew – there was no way Tony would pursue it. It was some stupid mind game. Honestly, we don’t know if it was meant to hurt you or Brent, but I can tell you, it inspired Brent.”
“Inspired?” Claire asked.
“Yes, we knew before then we wanted to distance ourselves and Caleb from Rawlings Industries. Seeing your strength, being away from him – in prison no less -- has been a constant reminder to us to stay the course.”
“I’m glad. I remember feeling bad for Brent when he left.” Claire’s eyes were drying. She couldn’t believe she had this support – from Tony’s closest friends.
The two ladies went to the pool and ate lunch. They lounged on chairs at the beach and sipped drinks. They walked along the shore and talked about everything. Claire even told Courtney about her mixed feelings regarding Tony. She hated what he did. Nevertheless, sometimes she’d remember good times and miss him too. Claire knew he wanted to see her and the idea terrified her. She wasn’t afraid of a physical threat; she was doing everything she could do to avoid a repeat of that history. Honestly, it was her own resolve she questioned. If the charming, loving, friendly Tony approached her – she wasn’t sure she could resist him.
Claire told Courtney about the dinner invitation. Surprisingly, Courtney didn’t try to dissuade her. A few weeks ago a similar subject caused an argument with Amber. Claire reasoned; Courtney knows Tony and truly understands.
During the course of the four days Claire told Courtney all about Tony’s box, his confession of sorts. She hadn’t planned to divulge, but sharing felt too liberating. She explained why Tony came for her in the first place, all stemming from her grandfather’s help convicting his grandfather for multiple white collar crimes. “It’s like everyone connected to the scenario thirty years ago and their family has been made to pay, even Tony’s parents.”
“Do you think he hurt his own parents?”
“I did at first. Maybe it’s just wishful thinking, but now I’m not sure. I think he had some influence over my parent’s death or maybe it was coincidental?”
“I had no idea Rawlings wasn’t his birth name. I wonder if Brent knows.”
“I think Tony also had some influence with Simon Johnson’s death. It’s too coincidental, him dying after I saw him in Chicago.”
Courtney shook her head. “I knew he was capable of a lot, but I can’t believe how deep this all goes. He really sent you pictures showing he’s been watching you for years before you ever met him?” Claire nodded. “What about Emily? If he’s getting everyone related to your grandfather, wouldn’t he do something to her too?”
“I think he did. I mean not personally. But by hurting me and John, he hurt Emily.”
Courtney confirmed, Brent told her Tony was responsible for John’s difficulties. “Is it done?” Courtney asked, “Is there anyone else he believes deserves to pay?”
“I don’t know. I mean he seems to be after me again.” Claire shrugged, “I don’t know if he thinks I didn’t suffer enough. Or, maybe he thinks I did. Perhaps, he believes his vendetta is over and I’ll want to resume our relationship. Thankfully, Emily and I are the only descendants left of our grandfather.”
“Well, Honey, only you can decide what to do.” Smiling with blue eyes shining, Courtney continued. “Just remember, this time it’ll be your decision.” Then as an afterthought, “I guess be glad you don’t have cousins.”
“Yeah, I’d hate to think of anyone else enduring what I did.”
“Now, tell me more about this Harry guy. He’s kind of cute in the pictures I’ve seen in magazines.”
Claire blushed, “He’s just a friend. But you’re right, he’s kind of cute. I’d say his most endearing quality is he’s nothing like Tony.”
“So?”
“So, nothing, we’re friends. He’s Amber’s brother and has been very helpful with rebuilding my life and researching Tony’s past.”
“Sure, I believe you.”
Watching the waves flatten the sand, Claire confessed, “And... he might be an excellent kisser, but I can honestly say nothing more has happened.”