Page 5 of Valentines In The Presidential Suite

Simon Weaver looked up at her and smiled from the chair she’d used last week. “I remembered that you usually sat in that chair,” he said, pointing to the one he’d used previously.

Morgan chuckled. “As long as we each have one, it’s fine. How are you? Can I get you some coffee?”

“I’d love some coffee. Something sweet. I’d get it myself, but I never know how to order it the right way.”

Morgan said, “I understand. If you’re not used to the lingo, it can be inhibiting. I usually choose a tall decaf mocha. Some people like other flavors. What do you think you’d like?”

“That mocha sounds delightful. Small,” said Simon. “But let me pay.”

“Next time,” said Morgan, putting her things on the table and heading back to the café to get his coffee.

When she returned, Simon’s eyes twinkled. “Thanks. It’ll be on me next week. I wrote down what you told me.”

“Deal,” she said, handing him his coffee. “Enjoy.”

She sat down and took a sip of her coffee before asking him. “What are you reading today?”

He shrugged. “Something that was recommended to me. It’s about family relationships and trying to heal the broken parts of one.”

“Oh, that sounds difficult,” Morgan said, then stopped herself. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to judge your choice.”

Simon waved away her concern. “No, no, that’s all right.” He hesitated. “Though my family is small, it’s complicated. My son, my only child, is deceased, and I’m left to interact with his wife, a very greedy individual. It’s something I can’t avoid dealing with. In fact, I might even need you to recommend a lawyer. Someone that my daughter-in-law, living in New York City, doesn’t know.”

“Our law firm just hired a lawyer who works with family issues. I’m now working directly with him. When the time comes, let me know, and I might be able to get him to at least talk to you.”

Simon gave her a look of approval. “Thanks. That’s helpful to know.”

Morgan sipped her coffee and opened the book about a mysterious murder with anticipation. She loved many genres and enjoyed mixing them up. But no matter how many twists and turns they had, the books she read couldn’t match the experiences she’d experienced in her own, ordinary life. Even now, after living a couple of years in Ellenton, she felt as if there was much more to learn about the people and place.

When Simon’s cell phone rang, Morgan startled.

With a look of apology, Simon said, “I’d better take it. It’s Constance, my daughter-in-law.”

Morgan started to rise to give him privacy, but Simon waved her back into her seat. “It’s okay. In fact, I’d like it if you stayed in case there are any misunderstandings.”

Morgan settled in her seat and placed her book in her lap.

“Hello, Constance,” Simon said. “How are you?”

He listened, and the smile left his face. “I’m sorry you’re feeling a bit stretched financially. As you know, I’m taking care of Jake’s college expenses, so any requests for funds should come from him. In fact, I promise you that I’ll speak to him later today, at the latest tomorrow. Any news on the social scene in New York?”

He listened politely, but Morgan could tell from his bored expression that he wasn’t really interested.

He perked up. “Yes, yes, I’m fine. Healthy as a horse.” He frowned. “Mentally as well.”

Simon ended the call and let out a long sigh. “If I dropped dead tomorrow, that woman would be celebrating. She doesn’t know, though, that she isn’t about to get my money. It’s going to worthy causes.”

Morgan sat quietly, wondering what she could or should say.

“I’m sorry if I’ve made you uncomfortable,” said Simon. “I’m afraid of what my daughter-in-law could do to try and get me declared unfit. I’m forgetful at times, but so is everyone else my age. It doesn’t mean I’m incompetent. She’s already called the staff at Signature and asked about me.”

Morgan couldn’t hide her dismay. “Really? That’s awful.”

“I think so, too,” he said. “Again, my apologies for ruining this time for you. I’ll leave and give you time alone. An Uber driver can take me home.”

“That’s not necessary. I’ll be happy to drive you. I’ve got a movie date this evening with a friend and need to leave myself.”

“Okay. A ride would be great,” said Simon. “That way, you can see where I live.”