Sweet Carolina Girls Part 28

Molly raised her hand, "Say no more, it's a done deal. Each woman will sign a contract with me today and give me one dollar. That is all I need from them and I will represent anyone of them who feels they need me with them during the deposition and the trial, if there is one."

Abby, who sat to Molly's immediate left and had been listening, chimed in, "You're not going to settle with that b.i.t.c.h are you?"

Harper thought Shelby had s.h.i.t on her friends and they were p.i.s.sed about it. She had probably alienated every real friend she had with this little adventure. The room had fallen silent because Abby had raised her voice a bit when she asked Molly the question.

Molly realized she could put the women off no longer. She rose to a standing position and addressed the table, "Ladies, I a.s.sume by now you all know that I am Molly Kincaid. You are all here, because Dr. Shelby West's lawyer has subpoenaed each of you in a civil action against Harper Lynch and Lauren Zachary. I don't see any reason why any of you should need legal representation, but if you do I will represent you for the fee of one dollar. You will sign a contract with me today and I must advise you not to speak to the media or anyone from Dr. West's attorney's office. Direct all such inquiries to my office and we will handle them for you."

Harper thought it was interesting how Molly was already dehumanizing Shelby by calling her Dr. West. Harper glanced around to see every eye trained on Molly, as she continued.

"When you are finished with your meal, if you will see the young man at the desk, just outside this door," indicating the door behind her, "before you leave, he will get your information and that dollar, if you don't mind."

The tension in the room relaxed, as Molly made them all laugh and retook her seat. The rest of the luncheon was spent listening to the teammates tell their own version of how the sparks flew between Harper and Lauren, the moment they stepped into the room together. The more they talked the further down in her seat Harper slid. She wasn't embarra.s.sed, she was even amused at some of the stories, but with every story they proved Shelby's case and they didn't realize it.

Their teammates filed out one and two at a time, wishing them luck and promising to see them at the poker party tomorrow night, at the bar. When the room was cleared, Lauren and Harper followed Molly to her private office and seated themselves in the two wing backed chairs that faced her desk.

When they were all comfortable and had been served fresh coffee, in matching china cups, Molly began, "This case is what I call a Twinkie case. A case where someone blames another party for their own actions, like if I eat this Twinkie I'll get fat and it's your fault for making it. You get the right kind of jury and Shelby might win. I've seen it happen."

"How can it be our fault that Shelby wrecked a car and killed someone?" Lauren asked.

"I'll get to that," Molly said and continued, "What her lawyer is citing is a rarely used statute called acriminal conversation,' which basically means the defendant's malicious conduct contributed to or caused the plaintiff to be injured."

Harper squirmed in her seat, "Well, that's a little vague."

Molly said, "Yes, it is," agreeing with her. "It basically opens the door to any act on your part that may have caused Dr. West to require medication and caused her to give in to a pre-existing condition, mainly her pre-disposition to alcoholism. I have to ask this, and it will not leave this room, but were you and Lauren romantically involved before the separation?"

Harper grinned, because that's what she did when she was nervous, "I'm kind of like Clinton on this one, I mean it depends on what you mean by involved?"

Molly nodded and gave Harper a look that let Harper know she appreciated her honesty. "Harper, were you and Lauren having s.e.x, before the separation?"

Harper answered with self-a.s.surance, "No, we were not."

Molly continued to pepper Harper with one question followed by another, "Did you spend a lot of time together alone, before the separation?"

"Yes, we did, but almost always at Shelby's suggestion."

"Did Lauren ever spend the night at your house, prior to the separation?"

Harper's self-a.s.surance was fading, "Yes, but I tried to contact Shelby to come get her because she was drunk and I couldn't send her home in a taxi like that..."

Molly cut her off, "Just yes or no will do, unless I ask you for the details, okay."

Harper nodded that she understood. Lauren put her hand out for Harper to hold in an act of solidarity and yes, Harper could see it in her eyes, pity.

"Harper, did you ever kiss Lauren before the separation?"

Harper sank into the armchair, "Yes."

"Approximately how many times did you kiss Lauren from the time you first met her and the separation?"

Harper sat up a little, "Only twice, the first time she was drunk..." Molly tried to stop her. "No, I need to tell you this. The first time, she was very drunk and very angry with Shelby, who made her go out on a date with me and the second time was when she came to tell me she couldn't see me anymore, because she was going to try and save her relationship with Shelby. I think I showed real restraint here, I mean look at her."

Molly laughed at Harper, that knowing laugh of the forty-something woman who remembers her younger days when she too would have gone for it. "Yes Harper, I think you showed exemplary character in controlling yourself. Very mature for a twenty-three year old I might add."

Harper laughed nervously, and then Molly asked, "When you and Lauren first consummated your relationship, what was your impression of Shelby and Lauren's relationship? You can expound here, if you like."

Harper thought carefully before answering, "I was told by Shelby that she and Lauren were separated, I think about two weeks before we started seeing each other. She asked me not to see or speak to Lauren, well; she threatened my graduate research if I did, so I did not contact Lauren."

Molly interrupted, "She threatened your research project?"

Lauren spoke up here, "Yes, and she illegally accessed Harper's personal records and spouted private information at a party for everyone to hear."

Molly nodded her head and made notes on her pad. She gestured for Harper to continue, "I did text that I was sorry for something I said at a party, but that was it. When Lauren came to me, it was on her own and might I add, she reminded Shelby that they were done, right there in front of the whole team. So, I was positive that their relationship was over, before we ever slept together."

Molly asked one more question, "When did you fall in love with Lauren?"

Harper took a deep breath, "I a.s.sume you want me to tell the truth, so here it is; I fell in love with Lauren the first time she made eye contact with me. It was unf.u.c.king real, excuse my language, but that is how I have to describe it. I had never felt like that in my entire life, it was like I found my missing piece and I had to have it."

Molly smiled and put her pen down, "I think I'll have to coach you on that answer, if this goes as far as depositions." She paused. "Lauren, I'm a.s.suming it was the same for you?"

Lauren said sheepishly, "Yes, pretty much."

Molly was now focused on Lauren, "Would you tell me why you separated from Dr. West?"

Lauren had been ready for anyone to ask her this question, "For over a year, I had been thinking about leaving. Shelby's work consumed her. She had no time for me. I spent all of my efforts meeting Shelby's needs and none of my own."

Molly interrupted, "You felt abandoned?"

Lauren nodded, "Yes and I began to miss my life, my art. In an attempt to save our relationship, I arranged to have a studio s.p.a.ce in one of my uncle's warehouses. I thought if I could paint, I could fall in love again. It only made it worse, because the freedom made me want to leave even more."

Lauren took a deep breath, "I was already moving my things into the studio and had slept there alone on more than one occasion. When I finally broke down at Harper's house that night, it was because I knew it was over and I was grieving. Shelby tried for a few days to be the woman I wanted, but she couldn't do it, so I left."

"And you don't think Harper had any effect on your decision to leave?" Molly inquired.

"Harper was only the straw that broke the camel's back. I realized I could feel things for another woman, I felt alive with her. She helped me see I had to break away from Shelby, so I could live the life I dreamed of. I left Shelby emotionally long before I ever met Harper; she just helped me leave physically."

"The big money she's going for is the future earnings she will lose, because of the harm the accident did to her career and she is seeking damages for emotional and physical trauma caused by your abandonment. Her lawyer is trying to tap that Zachary trust fund. I have to ask, how does your mother feel about all this?"

"I forgot, you probably met her during your brief representation of Shelby, before she swooped in and covered everything up. She's Shelby's ally not mine. I haven't told her about the lawsuit."

Molly put her pen down again and stood up. She came around to the front of the desk and leaned on it, facing her clients. "You might consider discussing this with your mother. I have a feeling when she finds out that Dr. West is suing you and trying to get money out of the Zachary pot of gold; her charity towards Dr. West will dry up."

Lauren thought for a second then said, "You have a point. There are two things Mother cannot abide; the family's dirty laundry aired in public and a gold-digger."

Harper added, "Well, you're two for two on this one."

Molly got back to business, "Okay, what I need from you is financial statements for the last five years. Your tax returns will do. If you have money hidden away, I don't want to know about it."

Harper hadn't thought of hiding her money. She would have to look into that.

Molly continued, "And listen, I don't think this is going to amount to much other than some scandalous news articles about the lesbian divorce, if the media gets wind of this. That's why I would prefer no one talk to the media. If it comes to that, we will make a statement denying all the allegations."

"In the meantime, I will file my own brief asking that the suit be thrown out of court on the basis that they have no law to back their case. If gay marriage isn't recognized in this state then you two were roommates, period, with no legal claims on one another. They can't have it both ways. This should blow over fairly quickly."

She let that sink in then asked, "I have to know, do you want to leave Dr. West with nothing? What I mean is do you want her to pay for causing you the stress a.s.sociated with this suit? We could take everything she owns, if you like?"

Harper could tell Molly was serious. That prospect had not occurred to Harper. From the look on her face, it had not occurred to Lauren either. They looked at each other, then Lauren answered for them, "We just want her to leave us alone, that's all."

Molly clapped her hands and stood up, "Well, that should be no problem. I doubt after I get through with her she will ever contact you again."

Lauren looked down at the floor. Harper noticed, "What's the matter, honey?"

"It's just so sad. I never wanted to hurt Shelby. I guess I didn't know her like I thought I did."

Molly started for the door to show them out, she said over her shoulder, "We rarely know anyone, as well as we think we do. You two, though, I think you know each other very well. You are lucky to have found that trust, I'm envious."

Harper smiled and took Lauren's hand, helping her from the chair, "Believe me I know how lucky I am. I'm sure you're wondering if all this drama has been worth the reward, and I have to tell you I would do it all over again, as long as I get the girl."

Lauren squeezed her hand, "Well, you definitely got the girl."

Molly laughed, as she showed them out, "Please send me an invitation to the wedding. I wouldn't want to miss it."

Harper smiled back at Molly. "You know it will not be in this state, right?"

"Call me; we'll all fly to wherever, in my private jet."

When they got into the Tahoe, Lauren and Harper looked at each other then said simultaneously, "She has a jet!"

Chapter Thirty-Two.

Harper and Lauren arrived back in the sanctuary they called home a little after one. The rest of the afternoon was theirs to do with as they pleased. Harper looked out at the backyard through the French doors.

"So what do you want to do for the rest of the day?"

Lauren was pacing in front of the couch, "I'm plotting the downfall of Dr. West. What do you want to do?"

"Not that," Harper surprised Lauren. She could tell by the look on Lauren's face.

"You're not angry?" Lauren put her hands on her hips.

"Lauren, I refuse to give Shelby another thought. She's taken up enough of my time. If you want to continue to allow her to interfere in your life, then go ahead."

Lauren looked at Harper with her head c.o.c.ked and her brow wrinkled, "I... I ... oh h.e.l.l, you're right."

"So, what do you want to do?" Harper sidled over to Lauren and started rubbing her neck.

"That feels so good. Hey," Lauren turned around quickly, "let's get ma.s.sages and have our hair done."

"Okay, but you usually need an appointment." Harper could use a ma.s.sage.

"Let me make a call. I can think I can get us in." Lauren started dialing on her cell phone.

"I'm going to send an email to my accountant to have my records sent to Molly."

Harper went to the dining room. She really had to think about finding an office s.p.a.ce in the house. She had planned on using the extra s.p.a.ce in the master bedroom, because it took up the entire top floor, but the dining room was more convenient. Maybe she should just change this s.p.a.ce into an office. They never ate in the dining room anyway. While Harper thought about changing the room out, Lauren bounded into the dining room with a big grin on her face.

We have appointments in thirty minutes at Day Spa 2.5.5., where William will be doing our hair and Kim will arrange our ma.s.sages. She slapped Harper on the a.s.s, "So get a move on little doggie."

They left all the dogs out and locked the doggie door so the labs couldn't wander into the house unsupervised. They were great dogs, but had been kenneled without regular exercise and training too long. Harper and Lauren had to retrain them Dog Whisperer style and it would take time and lots of patience. They could already tell the regular exercise was helping calm them down.

The Spa was located inside Peak Fitness, but it was not just a room on the side, it was a real spa. Lauren and Harper were taken to the ma.s.sage area where Kim was waiting with another professional ma.s.seuse. Harper faded away after the first five minutes. She let the woman manipulate her body at will. Harper hadn't realized how tight she was until this very moment. Soft music combined with waves crashing on the beach peacefully played in the background. The only sounds were the soft moans from Lauren and Harper as the ma.s.seuses worked their muscles through a deep tissue ma.s.sage.

The tranquility of the moment was shattered by a voice Harper could only describe as a cross between Scarlett O'Hara and Paula Deen.

"Lauren Anne Zachary, I know you are in here somewhere."

Lauren moaned and this time it wasn't from pleasure. She sighed loudly then answered the voice, "Yes Mother, I'm in here."

Harper, who was helplessly naked, lying on her stomach with only a sheet pulled over her lower body, raised her head slightly and just in time to see Martha Anne Zachary whip a decorative fabric wall divider out of the way and thrust herself into the room. Everything about this woman was exquisite.

Her sandy blonde hair was perfectly coiffed without a strand out of place. Her makeup looked professionally done, but let her natural beauty show through. Lauren resembled her mother very much. They both had the Carolina blue eyes that could hold you with a glance.

Martha Anne was wearing a white pants suit that must have cost a fortune. The floral pattern silk blouse beneath with the long full bow probably cost as much as Harper's couch. In other words, she was a well put together package that turned heads in any room she entered. Martha Anne wore fifty-something really well.

Martha Anne focused on her daughter to Harper's great relief, "There you are. I have been calling you for an hour."

"Obviously Mother, I am not carrying my phone," Lauren answered flatly.

"Well, just imagine my delight when I learned you were actually here in the spa. I was having William touch up my roots. How do I look?" Martha Anne posed.

"You look fabulous as always." Lauren was leaning up on her elbows, her chin in her hands.

"Thank you, darling. And is this your new, what do you call it these days, ahook-up,' I believe it is."

Martha Anne had now zeroed in on Harper. Harper had never felt so vulnerable in her life. She started to sit up and wrap the sheet around her, but she would be exposed, if only for a second, and that was a second longer than Harper wanted to be naked in front of Lauren's mother. Harper decided to remain in her beached walrus position, unable to move anything more than her head. She raised her chin as far as she dared and made eye contact with Martha Anne.

"Mother, this is Harper Lynch. Harper, this is the infamous Martha Anne Zachary," Lauren said, as she sat up and covered herself with a sheet. Harper was instantly jealous of her seated status.

Martha Anne shot a glance at her daughter, "Now, don't be catty Lauren. Mind your manners." Martha Anne smiled and approached Harper with her hand extended. "It's a pleasure to finally meet the woman who charmed my daughter away from Shelby. I've heard so much about you, Harper. Of course most of it came from your rival, so it wasn't very good."

Harper was forced to move her left arm to shake Martha Anne's hand. It was all quite awkward. Harper had to speak, so she thought about her oil baron grandmother and responded to Lauren's mother as her grandmother would. Harper was so glad she was a talented mimic.