Memoirs Of A Gigolo (12 page)

“Renée I think you should return to Miami.” “I will as soon as I’m done here.” Daddy was being overbearing and said, “I have to ask, is this someone you don’t want to discuss, a man?” “Is that why you don’t want to talk, or is it that you can’t talk.” I snapped, “Daddy, your calling me excessively, and I can’t breathe.”  “I’m sorry Renée I’m just concerned.” “This fellow must be important, because I’ve never seen you act this way.” “He is important daddy, but this won’t interfere with what I have to do.”  “I’m glad for you Renee, and if he makes you happy, that’s all that matters.” “I have to go now he’s calling me, we have plans today.” “I’ll talk to you later.’ 

“Who were you talking to Renée, your father again?” “Yes, but I promise he won’t be calling for a while,” she said. “Renee is there something you want to tell me?” I asked. “Yes, but now is not the time, maybe after the trip.” “No…, we need to talk about this now before this thing goes any further.” “OK, let’s talk about it.”  She said, “When I came here it was strictly about business, until I met you.” “Graham, my father and his wife are separated, and she’s now with someone else.” “I’m not taking my father’s side, but he shouldn’t have married her.”

She kept going…..“Stephora is a gold digger, and wanted nothing but my father’s money.” “She happens to be with someone you know.” I listened while she told me the reason for her visit. I didn’t know how I felt about the whole thing, but at least she was coming clean. “Who is she with,” I asked, pretending not to know? “It’s your partner Donavan, and they are planning on moving to Beverly Hills.” “How do you know so much about what their plans are?” “I hired a private investigator months ago, because I needed to know her intentions for my father.”

Damn... I knew Donavan was in over his head. I asked, “Why would you do a thing like that?”

She stammered, and then replied, “Why, because I knew my father loved her, and she was just along for the ride.” “Renee babe, you’re delusional, and your father is no saint.” “How many times did he leave his wife alone?” He was married to your mother, and I bet you can count the times he was at home.

“Listen to me, your father is a business man, and I’m sure he had extra pussy on the side.” “Renee I can’t say that he did or didn’t love Stephora, but give her the benefit of the doubt.” She said a bit put off, “I did until I saw pictures of her and Donavan having sex on the beach in Miami.”

“Pictures really?” “You have pictures; did you show them to your father?” “No I haven’t, but I plan to if she tries to dispute the prenup.” “That’s the problem with rich people,” I said, “They think it’s all about their money.” “Let’s not make this about money. Nick; there are people out there that scheme, and prey upon the weak.”

I asked, “Renee, are you sure you want to be with me?” I screw rich woman for money, and I won’t apologize for that.”

“Nick, I knew what you done for a living, before I got here.” I was surprised and said, “Really, and I guess you had me investigated too?” “No, but I knew you and Donavan were partners.” “I see you’re not only efficient at you job, but with everything you do.” She replied, “Don’t be silly, I had no idea I would fall in love with you.” I was being arrogant and said, “Oh, so now you’re in love with me, but are you sure?” She got angry and shouted, “Yes I’m sure, but if the feeling isn’t not mutual then I need to get out now.”

“I do love you Renee, but I can’t pretend.” “So I guess the trip for today is off?” Renee had tears in her eyes and said, “What do you want from me Nick; I said I loved you.”

I replied, “I just want to be happy, and you make me happy.” I took her in my arms and held her close. I did love her in spite of all this. “We better get going while it’s still daylight.”

I couldn’t make love to Stephora last night, and I felt bad. This whole thing with Janet had my mind completely fucked up. Stephora was still asleep when I woke this morning. I sipped my coffee and read the Tribune.

I hoped things went well today, because I didn’t want baby Janet to suffer because of it. I was even willing to let Joyce see her after I said I wouldn’t.

“Good morning sleepy head,” I said as Stephora walked into the room. “Morning, and are you ready for today.” “You didn’t sleep well last night, and you tossed and turned.” I said, “I know, but I’m ready anyway.” “There’s some coffee made, and I’ll order you breakfast it you want.” She said, “No, coffee is all I want this morning.” “Ok, I’m going to take a shower, and get ready.” “Donavan is there something wrong?”  “No why?” “I walked in the room, and you didn’t give me my morning kiss.”

“I’m sorry Stephora, but it’s just this court thing has me on edge.” She smiled and replied, “It’s understandable, but I want you to know I’m here for you.”  “Come here sweetness,” I took her in my arms, “This will all be over soon.”

I called Mom and her and Mack met me downtown. Mac went over everything that would take place in the mediation room. I was so nervous I was sweating through my shirt. Mac asked nervously, “Donavan is there anything that you didn’t tell me?” “No Mack, and why are you asking me now?” “I just wanted to be sure.”

I saw Joyce and Campbell coming down the hall with their lawyer. “Good morning,” I spoke out of courtesy. “Morning,” Joyce and Campbell barely said above a whisper. We all filed into the room facing each other across the table.  The judge walks in and sits at the head of the table.  “I’ve read over all the documents, and this case seems workable between the two parties.

“Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are you willing to have visitation rights with the minor child Janet Jacobs?” They both said, “No we want full custody, and Mr. Jacobs can have visitation.” The judge replied, “I’m sorry, but your lawyer should have informed you that the father has full rights to this child.”

“I’m afraid, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson it was stated in your daughters will of sorts.” The shock on Joyce’s face was priceless. She fought back tears, “I’m sorry Judge, but my daughter didn’t leave a will.” The judge replied, “Yes Mrs. Johnson, she did when she bought an insurance policy for this said amount of five hundred thousand dollars.” What? I knew Valencia had an insurance policy, but I had no idea of the amount.

The judge asked, “Is there any reason that you believe that your son-in-law shouldn’t have custody?” Joyce said, “Yes judge, he abandoned Janet after her mother died, and is now dating a married woman.” The judge raised his eyebrows and turned toward me, “Mr. Jacobs is this true?”

I first thought about my answer and then replied, “Not entirely your honor.” “The woman she’s speaking about is separated and is filing for divorce.” The judge then said, “I’m sure Mr. Jacobs has moved on with his life, and who he is with is not our concern here.”  “I think I’ve made my decision on the matter.”

Joyce seemed to have stopped breathing, and the judge spoke. “Mr. Jacobs I grant you full custody of the minor child, and the grandparent’s visitation rights.” “They are to have every other summer the months of June, and July.” “You Mr. Jacobs will have full custody, and every other Christmas.”

“This is so ordered.” “This court is adjourned.”

I was so excited about this being over, but I did feel for Joyce. I walked up to her and said, “Joyce, I don’t want to keep Janet from you, and I hope we can continue to be civil.”

“Donavan, all I wanted was what I thought my daughter would have wanted, and that’s what best for Janet.” She said, “I’m glad this whole thing is finally over, and I’ll have her and her things ready for you to pick up.”

I could plainly see the tears in her eyes, and I wondered if I were doing the right thing?  I hugged Joyce and told her I didn’t intend on hurting the family. I asked mom if she would come with me to get baby Janet, and she agreed.

We followed Joyce and Campbell to the house, and the sight of baby Janet brought tears to my eyes. I picked her up from the crib and hugged her tight.  She was the spitting image of Valencia, and now I was ready to handle it.  After we gathered her things, we headed over to moms.

Mom said, “Donavan I know you’re planning on moving to L.A., but you should leave Janet with me.” “I know mom, but when will I ever get to see her?” Mom replied, “Your firm is here, and I’m here, and I know you’ll be coming back every week.” “I promise I will share Janet with Joyce,” she smiled. “I want you to get on with your life now, and things will be fine I promise.”

“Stephora is a nice woman a bit of a spit fire, but I’m sure that’s what it takes for you.” “If LA is what’s best, I won’t stand in your way.”  I took her hands in mine and said, “Thanks mom and I plan on L.A. being your second home.” “Yes I know, but you’re my son and this in my grandbaby.”

I looked into her in the eyes being serious now “One other thing mom I want you to quit your job.”  “Quit my job, are you serious?” “Yes I am, because there is enough money that you never have to work again.” “Donavan, I’ve always prided myself on being independent, and that money is for Janet’s education.” “Mom you’re the best and I love you.”

I drove across town elated, and I couldn’t wait to make love to Stephora. “Honey I’m back,” I called out, but I didn’t get an answer. Where was she? I didn’t see a note. “Stephora…” Maybe she went out for something different to eat?

I just wanted to get out of this suite, and relax. I grabbed a shot of bourbon after I showered, and watched some of the game.

I woke up about an hour later, and Stephora still wasn’t there. I called her cell phone, and it went straight to voicemail. I even called the front desk to make sure she hadn’t left a message. A wave of uneasiness rushed over me because I thought of Valencia. 

Then I heard the door, “Where the hell have you been?” I snapped. She was shocked and asked, “What’s the matter Donavan, and why that tone of voice?” I replied still feeling a little anxious, “I’ve been worried sick, and you should have left a note or something.” “I’m sorry, but I needed some air and clear my head.”

“Donavan this trip has been taxing on my nerves and Graham called today.” I knew this was coming, but I just didn’t know when. “What did he have to say?” I asked. “He wants me to come back to Miami, and put this all behind us.” “So are you going back?”  “Is that the reason you needed to clear you head?” “I can’t lie I did consider his offer, but I can’t go back now after everything that has happened.”

“But you did consider it, right?” “Donavan there something I have to say to you.” “What might that be, you’re going back to your abuser?” “No, but I think I’m pregnant, and I’m not sure if it’s yours or Grahams.” I felt like someone had sucker punched me in the gut. I didn’t know what to say or how I felt about the news. We’ve been together for about a month, and I didn’t use protection.

“Why didn’t you tell me you weren’t on the pill, or something?” I asked thinking this was my fault. “When we had sex it was so spontaneous I wasn’t thinking.” I said after gathering my thoughts, “You told me Graham didn’t want any children, so I thought it was safe.” “I never have sex without a condom in my line of work. I must be slipping.

“I wanted a child Donavan, but I didn’t think I would get pregnant so fast.” “That might sound naïve, but it’s true.” “I stopped taking my birth control about three months ago.” I said with a bit more compassion, “I understand, but I just got full custody of Janet.” “So things went in your favor with the custody hearing?” she asked.

“Yes, but I was thinking of leaving her here with my mother.” 

“We’re due to be in L.A in a week, and now this, and what if the baby is Grahams, what then?” “I don’t know; I haven’t thought that far ahead.” She replied almost in tears. “I can go back and remain in Miami until this baby is born.” Stephora suggested tearfully. “Over my dead body you will, because there’s a chance it’s mine,” I snapped.

What the hell was I going to do with two children? Janet was 10 months old, and now this. I needed a drink. This was too much to wrap my head around. 

“I think you should proceed with your divorce so we can get married,” I suggested tensions running high. “Why can’t we stay here in Chicago until the baby is born?” Stephora asked. “I have a business to run out in L.A and I’d planned to move my firm there.” “There’s another thing I wanted to talk about and that’s your escort business.” She said as a matter of fact. “Donavan I couldn’t raise my child with a father who’s a high priced prostitute.”

“Wow…” it didn’t seem to bother you when we discussed it in Miami,” I snapped. I’ve wanted to get out, but not right now, and I will before the baby.” She looked at me and said, “Donavan, I don’t like sharing you with other woman.” “I know, but it’s not for pleasure, its business.” Stephora replied, “You just keep telling yourself that lie until you believe it.” 

“Stephora, didn’t you do the same thing with Graham but in a different way?” “No, it’s not the same he was my husband, and not some random guy.” “I see this is going nowhere so do what you think is best, I’m going to bed.”

I grabbed the scotch from the bar and left the room. I laid there thinking, but all I wanted to do was make love to Stephora. I got a glass from the bathroom sink and took a swig of the scotch. I knew this wasn’t going to help anything, but it helped me relax.

I wanted nothing more than to apologize to Stephora, but maybe in the morning when things were clearer. I woke the next morning to a note.

Donavan:

“I’m sorry, but I’m leaving for Miami I think its best right now. I wished we could’ve discussed this like adults. Don’t worry I’m not going back to Graham, but I can’t stay here. I’ll call as soon as I find a place for me and the baby.  

Love Stephora

I couldn’t believe she left like this with things up in the air. I tried to call her phone, but she wouldn’t answer.  I didn’t know any of her friends so I couldn’t call them. I needed to book a flight to Miami a.s.a.p.

I called mom to let her know I was taking a short trip to Miami, and I would be back in a few days. I’d told Nick I would be in L.A. in a few days also, but this was definitely more important.

I took the red eye to Miami and went straight to the apartment Nick bought because I still had the keys.  Where would I look, and who could I call?  It dawn’s on me to call Susan?

Maria, her housekeeper, picked up, “Ms. Gweniver please.” “May I ask who is calling?”  “This is Donavan Jacobs.” “All right Mr. Jacobs hold on.”

Susan picked up, “Donavan, how are you darling, and why are you calling me?” I knew this was going to be an awkward conversation.

“I have to ask you a favor, and it’s about Stephora.” “Stephora, really Donavon, and why are you calling me about her…?” “Shouldn’t you be calling her husband about her whereabouts?” I replied trying to be calm, “Susan I know this is an awkward situation, but I’m sure you know that they are separated.”  “Yes, and I heard she ran off with her escort, and now your calling me.”

“Donavan darling, didn’t you know that Stephora would come back as soon as the money ran out.” “You couldn’t afford her lifestyle, and Graham would never let you keep her.” I laughed, “I’m afraid your mistaken she didn’t leave me for Graham.”

“Donavan sweetheart, she has you under her spell, and I’m sure she’s back at Grahams as we speak.” I snapped, “I’m here in Miami for a few days call me if you here about her whereabouts.” Susan replied with venom in her voice, “I’m no investigator, but as a friend I’ll call as soon as I hear anything.” “Thanks so much Susan, I owe you one.” “Sure you do darling, and I plan to collect.”

I sat there twiddling my thumbs and waiting for Susan to call back. Finally the call comes, and she tells me she’s in a hotel in South Florida. I jotted down the number and headed out.

I arrived at the Hotel Cabana and asked the clerk for the room number. He said, “I’m sorry sir, but I can’t give out that kind of information.”  “Randi,” I looked at his name tag, “This is a life or death situation here.” “Again I’m sorry but I can’t.” I reached into my pocket and said, “Here’s something that might change your mind,” and I handed him five hundred dollars bills. He looked around to see if anyone was looking. In that case and he wrote down the number.

“If anyone asks you didn’t get it from me.” “I won’t say a word.” He stopped me and said, “Sir before you go up there’s a man already with her.” “Thanks Randi.” I took the elevator up to the fifth floor and knocked on the door.

Stephora looked surprised when she opened the door and said, “Donavan what are you doing here?” “I told you I would call you.” “I know, but can I come in?” “I’m afraid Graham is here, and it’s not a good time.” “It’s as good a time as any,” I said and I pushed right passed her. Graham looked angry and snapped, “What the hell are you doing here?” “Haven’t you caused enough trouble in this family?”

“Family, that’s a joke and don’t you mean possession?” Graham replied sarcastically, “I thought you were smart Donavan, but I see I was fooled by you.” “You’re nothing but an intruder in my life. “Do you know what I do to intruders?” I smiled and said, “Your threats don’t frighten me Graham Gordian.” He replied, and his ice blue eyes were now daggers.

“Threat, I’m not making threats this is a promise, and if I ever catch you near my wife again I’ll kill you…”  “Your wife…?.” I laughed as if he’d made a joke.