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2002 - 2004
Between the massive trust he managed for his family and the heavy client load he maintained at a firm in Chicago, Leo didn’t have much time to think about Amelia.
Other than every time he closed his eyes, in the shower, or when he allowed himself the rare day off.
Every few months, when he went home to see his parents, he stopped to talk with Gil. On one such visit, the man looked haggard and sounded worse. He was clearly drinking heavily.
Stepping into the foyer, Leo asked carefully, “Has something happened?”
“Augusta was released from prison last week.” He stumbled as he attempted to close the door and Leo caught him. “I hate that I miss her, I hate that I still love her, I hate myself for far too many reasons to name.”
“Let me make you something to eat.” Leo led him through the house to the restaurant style kitchen and helped Amelia’s father into a chair. He shrugged off his jacket and rolled up his sleeves to evaluate what food the man had on hand.
Not much.
“Aren’t you eating, Gil?”
“No appetite. I drink my calories these days.” The words were followed by a laugh that dissolved into tears. “I’m alone. Walking around this house waiting for...I don’t know what. The pain gets loud. The booze makes it go quiet.”
Making some eggs and toast, he placed a plate in front of a man who’d always had a cheerful disposition.
“Have you talked to Augusta?”
His hand shook badly as he picked up his fork. “I can’t. Don’t trust myself to even look at her.” Staring into the plate, he added softly, “In my whole life, I never truly loved anyone but her and Amy. I don’t think the softer emotions like that came easily to me. I have lifelong friends, scattered family, you and your folks...but I only love those two women.” He broke down crying. “One won’t speak to me. The other should be a pariah for the rest of her life.”
Placing his hand on Gil’s forearm, he said, “Eat a little. One thing at a time.”
“Yeah. One thing at a time. You’re a good boy, Leo. Always have been.” He ate slowly, methodically.
Removing his cell phone, Leo opened his email. It had been years since he sent a message to Amelia but if there were one to send, it was this one.
Amelia, I’m visiting with your dad. He’s in bad shape. Drinking too much, not eating, desperately alone. I hope you’ll consider reaching out to him, giving him some hope, and maybe a chance to make as much right between you as possible. He doesn’t seem well and I wouldn’t want you to have regrets. Leo
Several minutes later, as Gil struggled to eat a little more, Leo received a response.
Thank you, Leo. I’m booking a flight. Let him know I’ll be there tomorrow. I let things go too long and already have regrets. Amelia
Fighting to hide the way the news that Amelia would be back in their hometown the next day affected him, Leo quickly washed the dishes he’d used.
When he felt as if he could form a coherent sentence, he returned to the chair beside Gil and said, “She’s coming to see you tomorrow.”
Watery eyes lifted. “A-Amy?” Leo nodded and the man stroked a shaking hand through his thinning hair. “I look a mess. I don’t know what to do…”
“Throw on some clothes and I’ll take you to the barber. Maybe we’ll pick up a couple of new outfits. What do you think? We can get dinner together after and I’ll bring you back here.”
Looking around the house, Gil murmured, “I’ll call a service to clean the house. H-have them put new linens on the bed and in the bathroom. Give the place a once-over.”
“That’s a good idea. I’ll call them while you change.”
Several hours later, Leo braced an exhausted Gil as he went up the steps into the house. “Thank you, Leo. I can’t ever thank you enough. Maybe you should come by…”
“Amelia isn’t coming to see me, Gil. She’s coming to see you. You deserve her undivided attention.” Baylor carried the clothing bags inside and placed them in Gil’s bedroom before returning to the car for groceries. “The house looks good. The barber sharpened you up. There are snacks and other foods so you don’t worry.” Reaching out, he held Gil’s shoulder. “Try not to drink but if you do, take it easy.”
“I promise, Leo.”
“Call me if you need anything. I’m driving back to the city tonight…”
“Stay, Leo! Just in case…”
