She knew it was not. “But it was your suggestion. We wouldn’t be going if you hadn’t allowed it.”
“You are right. But we are going because you want to. We are going because you have patiently accepted every challenge, every test, and every ordeal that has come your way. And for the record, not all have been my doing, merely a byproduct of being Mrs. Rawlings. Apparently, it can be a difficult role.” She knew that too and smiled. He continued, “You have not just accepted, you have conquered.”
She didn’t know what to say. He complimented her regularly but she never knew his sincerity. He reached out and squeezed her hand. “You have exceeded any and every preconceived idea I have ever had about you. The one limitation that has been placed on you that I recognize has caused you anguish is your sister. Truly I have no ill feelings toward Emily. She can be excessively inquisitive, but you two share a bond.” He watched her eyes. “I told you months ago I would try to be a better husband. I have spent most of my life only concerned about myself. I am truly trying, even if it does not always appear so.”
She prayed that her smile radiated into her eyes but she could feel the moisture too. “Tony, I love you. I know you are trying. I am contented with the strides you’ve made. That doesn’t mean I don’t hope for more. That may make me ungrateful, but I do. I think you’re amazing. That is why I want you, Emily, John, and I to be a family. I want them to know the remarkable man I married.” She kissed him and he kissed her too. She still wasn’t confident in the outcome of their family reunion but her expectations had improved, as did the feeling in her head, the ache subsided.
When they arrived, Emily and John were already seated at a private table with a wonderful view of the Hudson River. They greeted one another with hugs and handshakes. Tony watched as Claire’s eyes sparkled when she talked with her family. Tony was civil, refined, and mannerly. To the unknowing observer he may have even seemed cordial and friendly. Claire was glad John and Emily qualified as unknowing. He was a master at appearances and was even the first to extend his hand and congratulate John on his accomplishments.
“We are still sorry you didn’t decide to join us at Rawlings Industries. I believe that despite what your sister-in-law said, you would have been a real asset.”
Claire smiled and shook her head at John. “I didn’t say a word. I was as shocked as you when I learned of the offer. Tony and Tom did their homework. But we definitely respect your decision and are thrilled with your success.”
John respectfully thanked them both. The job offer was a huge compliment and he is honored. He also accepted their congratulations on the result of his trial, but as far as partnership nothing was currently set. He added, “The jury is still out.”
Tony’s comment pleased Claire. It cleared the air, allowing her to breathe easier. The four of them had a nice dinner. Claire told her sister and brother-in-law about their upcoming trip to Europe.
Emily said she had spent a long weekend in Fishers, Indiana, visiting some old friends. She named a few and told Claire how they all sent her their best. The mention of her past life darkened Tony’s eyes a few shades. Claire didn’t pursue the subject, only smiling and nodding acceptably. Emily also commented on Claire’s hair, did she like it so blonde? Of course, it looked beautiful. Emily actually said that she looked stunning but so different. Some of their old friends asked if it was really her in the pictures, the name was right, she just didn’t look the same. Claire wondered if that meant she wasn’t stunning before.
Claire asked how they liked the wedding pictures she sent. They both said they liked them very much. Emily even said she had gotten some new dresses to wear with her wedding shoes. She’s never had shoes like those before and planned to get Anthony’s money’s worth out of them. Tony smiled at Claire and commented on how nice that would be if she tried to wear some of her shoes a second time. They all laughed. The mood was jovial. The dinner tasted delicious, and catching up was fun.
In the car on their way back to Manhattan Claire told Tony, “Thank you, but I am glad that’s done. It’s too much stress for me. Besides, I’m too excited about our trip!”
His eyes lightened again. If that night needed to qualify as a type of consequence Claire would call it positive. The next day, they flew east across the Atlantic.
Believe that life is worth living and your belief
will help create the fact.
—William James
Chapter 40