Page 40 of Secrets (Lost and Found 2)

“Just wanted to check the mail,” Tori said confidently. “Is Mr. Bellows in? I brought him a donut. Sorry, they didn’t have any gluten-free goodies.”

“It’s OK. I bake my own.” Arlene raised her ugly-looking muffin to show Tori. “He’s not in yet,” she said, with a longing glance at the donut bag. “Sure wish I could eat one of those, though, but if I do, well, you know what happens.” Arlene pointed to her backside, referring to the gastrointestinal issues she experienced.

Tori smiled, thinking,Too much information, thank you.“I’ll leave it on his desk.” Tori walked into Robert Bellows’s office and placed the donut on top of a napkin so the grease wouldn’t get all over his desk blotter. Blotters were made to absorb ink, not necessarily an oily piece of fried dough. Tori looked around the office. It was as stereotypical as a lawyer’s office could be. Big Brayton Manor executive desk with a large brown leather chair, matching barrister bookcases and credenzas. Two club chairs sat in front of the desk and a settee was in front of the large bay window. A small round table was on one side with four chairs. It was almost a duplicate of George Layton’s with the exception of the window treatments, wall covering, and carpeting. Robert’s office had a green palette while George’s was deep burgundy. His wife wanted more warmth and did the decorating for her husband. It had remained that way since they opened the office thirty years before, but George hadn’t had the heart to make any changes after his wife passed away.

Both men had family photos, awards, and various memorabilia on their shelves. Robert’s were sports related, while George’s were family and historical, with a large old-world globe on a stand in the corner. But both offices were comfortable and gave the client a sense of safety and security.

Tori tried to imagine how many people passed through the doors and what troubles they brought with them. But she knew that whatever the issue, George and Robert would find a solution. Just like George was helping her find hers.

After an hour of sorting through mail and e-mails, Tori went into George’s office. She pulled out a law book that contained information about divorces in North Carolina. Even though she did most of the research for her boss, she wanted to look at the statutes from her own perspective. The most important detail was in order to file for an “absolute divorce,” the couple must be separated for at least one year and one day. In many instances, couples signed a separation agreement, which covered terms and responsibilities. She knew he would never go for it. Another option was a DBB: Divorce from Bed & Board—a court-ordered separation due to abuse or adultery. It does not constitute an absolute divorce, but the court can intercede to resolve property issues. Tori’s head was spinning. She knew she wasn’t eligible for a DBB. Sure, he was sullen, but that didn’t reach the level of abuse. It was more of emotional abandonment that pained her. The one bright spot was the issue of child support. That could be filed at any time.

She was sorry she had opened the book. Her elation about going to the art center was clouded by the reality of logistics. She folded her arms and rested her head on the table. A soft knock startled her.

“You OK?” Arlene asked.

“Yes, I’m fine. Just a little headache,” she lied. It was a huge headache, literally and figuratively.

“Can I get you something for it?”

“Thanks, but I have some aspirin in my purse.”

“Is there anything I can help you with? I thought you were taking the day off.”

“No, but thanks. I was just looking up something for a friend.” Tori checked her watch. “I’d better get going. I have a lot of errands to run.” She waited for Arlene to leave the doorway so she could put the book back on the shelf. She didn’t want Arlene to know what she had been reading about. Tori stood up, hoping it would give Arlene the hint to scram. It worked. She stretched and put her thoughts on pause. Maybe the psychic could steer her in the right direction. At least she knew Mr. Layton had her back, even if he wasn’t yet aware he might be representing her at some point. She resigned herself that if she didn’t face her issues head-on, she could be spinning in circles. Getting there was the big challenge.

She grabbed her purse, keys, and jacket and headed out the door. “See you tomorrow.”

“Sure thing. Have a good one!” Arlene was still picking at that ugly muffin.

* * *

Luna, Ellie, and Chi-Chi got together for their usual morning coffee and delectable delights from the Flakey Tart.

“What’s on your agenda today?” Ellie asked as she sipped her cappuccino.

“I have several clients.” Luna broke off a piece of her brioche. “Word must be getting out. I hope you don’t mind, Ellie.”

“Why would I mind? It brings people into the center. Some of whom would most likely never come here. I look at you as a ‘promotional item.’” Ellie smiled.

“Huh. I never thought of myself as that.” Luna scrunched up her face. “But if it keeps the traffic flowing, then that’s a good thing. I just don’t want people to get all weirded out.”

“Have you looked around?” Ellie chuckled. “We are surrounded by eccentric people.”

Chi-Chi almost spit out her coffee. “I suppose I am one of them?”

“Of course you are. That’s why we love you,” Luna teased. “I think anyone who has any sort of an artistic streak is a bit eccentric.”

“That’s what makes them special.” Ellie patted Chi-Chi’s hand.

Chi-Chi smiled brightly. “I suppose you are correct. We are special.”

“Yes indeedy!” Luna got up and rinsed her coffee cup. Chi-Chi and Ellie did the same.

“OK, you fine women. Y’all have yourselves a lovely day.”

Chi-Chi folded her hands in prayer position. “Oni a dara.”

“You have a nice day as well.” Luna gave her a slight bow. “Namaste.”

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