4 comments/ 6030 views/ 4 favorites Getting Even Ch. 03: The Final Chapter By: NymphWriter Zane stormed into his hotel room. The meeting with his biggest client yet wasn't going well and he was pissed. This was the deal he had to close to finally lock in his promotion he was promised three months earlier, and had been working on for the last year. He had put more energy into earning this promotion since he met Bella and her two children. Though he didn't want to admit it to himself, they were the reason he was working so hard. Part of the delay for his promotion was due to the bad economy, but part was his own fault. While meeting a client in Nice, France, six months prior, Zane made the horrid discovery that his client's wife, was once one of his former lovers. She recognized him at dinner, and exposed their relationship before realizing he was there to meet with her husband. Zane nearly lost that client and what should have taken a few days or a week at most, took nearly three months. With closing the deal, he returned to the states, and to Bella, the possible mother of his unborn child. She picked him up at the airport and drove him back to his place. They barely got past the doorway before they took each other into their arms, kissing passionately as they stumbled into the bedroom. Bella unzipped his pants, freeing his growing member before taking it into her mouth and sucking. Zane moaned softly, weaving his fingers into her hair. It only took a moment for her to deep throat his cock, licking the sides, and sucking and swallowing, driving him nuts. He loved the feel of her mouth on his cock, seconded only by her pussy and ass. Her head bobbed up and down on his cock as he frantically removed his shirt and tie. Zane wanted to remove her from his cock, but the feeling of her mouth on his cock, her throat surrounding his cockhead, was more than he could resist, and the three months of masturbation made the sensation more than he could resist. He pumped within her mouth until he felt his own orgasm strike and ropes of hot, sticky cum filled his mouth. Bella moaned and swallowed every drop. "Fuck Bella!" Zane moaned. "That never gets old." "Thank you," said Bella. Zane pulled Bella onto his bed and stripped her clothes from her. Her swollen belly rippled as he pushed her legs apart. "May I have your fine ass tonight?" "If that will please you, then yes." Zane placed a couple of pillows under Bella's ass and began licking her pussy. Her juices tasted differently because of her pregnancy, but were no less sweet and arousing. The baby within her belly brushed his head as he licked and sucked her clit. He slid his fingers into her pussy, feeling her moist, velvety inner walls. Bella began to pant just moments before her orgasm struck, soaking Zane's face. Zane savored her unique aroma of her as he lapped up her juices. Bella quickly moved onto her hands and knees, wiggling her ass for Zane. He smiled at the site of her round ass shaking for him. He pulled out the tube of KY Jelly from his bedside table drawer, and set it on top of the table. He rubbed his newly hardened cock outside her pussy lips, coating his cock with her juices, then slid inside her. Bella moaned softly as she felt his cock fill her. "Fuck me baby!" she moaned. Zane gripped her hips and pumped. Her felt her velvety folds wrap around his cock, her heat radiated, her moisture coating his cock. Heaven opened up for him. Part of him wanted to tell her he hadn't had sex with a woman since the last time they had been together, but decided to keep that information to himself. Bella's second orgasm hit, milking his cock. Zane pulled out, coated her anus with the lube, and slid his cock into her ass. He moaned as he felt the tightness surround his member. He knew he wouldn't last long, so he had to make this count. With a few gentle thrusts, he pushed his cock further into her ass until he was fully in. Bella clawed the sheets below her and growled. Zane thrust hard, gripping her hips, and fucked her ass hard. It wasn't long before he felt the familiar tingling deep within him, his sperm rose up and shot out an into the condom as he and Bella screamed. Their final orgasm was climatic. Zane pulled out of her ass, and Bella rolled onto her side. "Thank you lover," she purred. "Thank you," he said, padding off to the bathroom. He returned condom-free, smiling. "What are you grinning about?" asked Bella. "I was just thinking, what a beautiful sight you are, lying in my bed." Bella giggled. "You're sweet. Ohhh!" "What is it?" "She kicked me, hard." Zane sat next to Bella and placed his hands on her belly. He felt the baby move and kick within Bella's body. "She is pretty active." "I should get dressed and get home. I've got to pick up the kids soon." "I hope to see you again soon." "As do I," said Bella, rising from the bed and getting dressed. Bella left to pick up the children, knowing the pain she felt wasn't the baby kicking as she had told Zane, but the early stages of labor. She knew the risk of having sex so close to her due date, but she didn't care. She was horny as hell and only Zane could satisfy her need. She and the children came home to an empty house, and fixed dinner while watching the clock on her contractions. After dinner, they stopped, but she knew it was only a matter of time before she would deliver her third, and final child. The next morning, Zane's phone rang with Bella's number. "Hello Bella!" "Uncle Zane?" said a young boy's voice. "Tommy?" "I think Mommy's having her baby now," he said. In the background he heard a woman scream. "Put Mommy on the phone," ordered Zane. "Saint Gerard's Hospital!" she screamed as Tommy tried to hand her the phone. Zane scribbled the name down. "Who's taking you?" "Tommy!" screamed Bella. "Who are you talking to?" "Uncle Zane," he said. "Give me the damn phone!" she snapped. Tommy started to cry. "I'm sorry Momma," he sobbed. Zane could hear Bella panting. "I'm sorry too, baby. Now please, give Mommy the phone." "Bye Uncle Zane," said Tommy. "Bye Tommy," said Zane. "Hello?" gasped Bella. "Are you in labor?" asked Zane. "Yes!" she exclaimed. "My water just broke!" "How are you getting to the hospital?" he asked. "My ... oh ... my mother is coming." "Grandma is here!" shouted Sophie. "I thought Tommy was calling Grant, not you," she said through gritted teeth. "Why?" "I said ... ah ... ouch ... call Daddy." "Are you all right?" asked Zane. "I've got the kids loaded sweetie," said a woman's voice in the background. "Let's go hon." "Are you coming?" asked Bella. "Yes, I'll meet you there," said Zane. Bella ended her call as her mother helped her into the van. "Who was that?" her mother asked. "Uncle Zane," said Tommy. "Why didn't you call Daddy?" questioned Bella. "I did," said Tommy. "He didn't answer, so I called Uncle Zane." "Who is this 'Uncle Zane'?" asked her mother. "A family friend," said Bella, panting. Bella's mother shot her a look as Tommy said, "He's helping me with my curve ball." Bella cried out and the subject was dropped. They drove to the hospital where Bella was quickly rushed to the labor room and Bella's mother took the kids to the waiting room. Bella's mother kept calling Grant, but would only get his voicemail. She was getting frustrated when Zane walked in. "Uncle Zane!" cried the kids, rushing to hug him. Zane knelt down and hugged the two. "How's Mommy doing?" "The doctor said the baby is coming," said Sophie. Bella's mother cleared her throat. Zane stood up and extended his hand. "Zane Masters." "Katherine Steele," said Bella's mother, taking Zane's hand. "How is it you know my daughter and my grandchildren?" "I'm a family friend," said Zane. "What exactly does that mean?" Katherine asked. Before Zane could answer, a nurse stepped in and asked, "Is there a Grant or a Zane here?" "I'm Zane." "Come with me," said the nurse. Zane followed her to a room where Bella was lying on her side with her eyes closed. There were tubes and wires all around her, machines beeping, and screens recording information. Zane stepped up and put his hand gently on Bella's head. "Hello beautiful." Bella opened her eyes. "Zane! Where's Grant?" "I don't know. Your mother's got the kids." "Good. Are they scared?" "A little." "Here comes another one!" Bella hissed and panted as the contraction passed. Zane held her hand and was shocked how strong she was. "What was that?" "Contraction. She wants out and she wants out now." "Wait, when you were hurting last night, it was labor pains wasn't it?" "Unless my water had broke, or they were closer together there was no reason for alarm." Zane sighed, realizing his sex with Bella may have caused this. "Do you want me to see if Grant is here yet?" Bella closed her eyes and sighed. "No, but would you anyway?" "For you, yes." Zane kissed Bella's forehead then stepped out and walked back to the waiting room. Bella's mother was dialing on her cell phone while the kids were playing on the floor. "Any word from Grant?" "I called his office but they said he's in a meeting," said Katherine. "I told them his wife is in labor and they admitted he's not in the office. I can't find him anywhere." "Uncle Zane," said Sophie, "is Mommy all right?" Zane knelt down and put his arm around her and said, "She will be. How about I stay with Mommy and you stay with Grandma until Daddy arrives. This way Mommy isn't alone." "Okay," she said, hugging Zane's neck. Zane kissed her cheek, patted Tommy on the head, and went back to the room. "Where's Grant?" growled Bella, as he walked in. "We don't know." "Bastard!" she hissed. "Now, now," said Zane, in a soothing tone, "that's no way to talk with our daughter about to arrive." Bella smiled up at him. "Our daughter?" Zane kissed her forehead, "Yes Bella, our daughter. And I for one am looking forward to meeting her." Zane held Bella's hand through each contraction, encouraging her to keep going, to push, and to not give up. Soon, they heard the doctor exclaim, "It's a girl!" Both Bella and Zane cheered as they lay the tiny, crying form on Bella's stomach. "She's beautiful," said Zane. "One more push Mom!" exclaimed the doctor. Bella gave one final push, then put her hand on the baby's head. "Cut the cord?" the doctor asked Zane, handing him the scissors. Zane took a deep breath and looked at Bella who nodded. It took two tries before Zane could successfully cut the entire cord. The nurse took the baby for weight and measurement and Zane told Bella he'd share the good news with Katherine and the kids. He blew a kiss at the baby, then at Bella, and stepped out. He walked into the waiting room where Katherine was sitting on the sofa holding Tommy and Sophie. "It's a girl!" "And Bella?" asked Katherine. "She's fine. Tired, but fine." Grant burst into the room, exclaiming, "Fucking traffic! What the hell is he doing here?" "Daddy!" exclaimed the children, rushing up to Grant. "Where's my wife?" Grant snapped. "Resting," said Zane. "She just gave birth to a beautiful daughter." "I fucking missed it!" "Language Grant!" said Katherine, sternly. "Why didn't you call me?" he asked. "I tried to!" snapped Katherine. "I've been calling your cell all damn day. Your office said you were in a meeting, but they didn't know where you were." Grant pursed his lips, and opened his mouth when a nurse walked in and said, "Mrs. Hamilton has been moved to her room. I'll take you all to see her now." "Not you buster," said Grant, pointing at Zane. "Cut the crap Grant," snapped Katherine. "Zane was here for Bella when you couldn't be found." Sophie reached up and asked, "Would you carry me Uncle Zane?" "Sure Princess," said Zane, scooping her up into his arm. Grant shot Zane a dirty look, but said nothing. The nurse lead them down a hallway to a private room where Bella was on a bed, holding the baby. Zane sat Sophie on the bed next to Bella as Tommy climbed up next to her, then took a picture of the four of them. Katherine handed him her phone and had Zane take a picture with her, Grant, Bella and the children. Then Katherine offered to take a picture with Zane, Bella, and the children. Grant's face went purple, but he said nothing. Bella handed Zane the tiny baby girl, as Sophie climbed onto his lap, and Tommy scooted in next to him. That was the picture that Zane had on his laptop's desktop. Seeing that picture helped Zane remember why he was working so hard. It also made him smile, reminding him of the happiest day of his life. Zane hadn't seen Bella in over two months, not since the DNA test results had come in and confirmed what he already knew, little Olivia, was his daughter. That didn't stop Grant from signing the birth certificate or telling Zane to get lost every chance he got. Nor did it stop Zane from having a weekly chat with Bella and the kids via Skype. Bella named the baby Olivia after Zane's mother. He found out later that it was Sophie who suggested the name. Zane fired up his laptop to go over the necessary forms to hopefully close this deal once and for all. He smiled as the pseudo family picture appeared on his screen. While he waited for everything to load, his phone began to vibrate. He saw Carmen was calling. "Hello Carmen." "Zane," she said, "Have you talked with Bella lately?" "We Skype on Saturday so I can see the kids. Why?" "You need to call her, now." Zane checked the time, it was early in the day where Bella was at and he knew she was up. "Why?" "Grant's dead." Zane froze for a moment. "Say that again?" "Grant is dead." "How?" "Fatal car crash." "Was Bella with him?" "No, but his secretary was, and she's dead too." "Fuck!" hissed Zane. He knew that meant Grant was cheating on Bella again. "When did this happen?" "Two nights ago. It was all over the local news. A huge pile-up on the interstate that killed four people and injured over a dozen. A big-rig jack-knifed on an icy patch of the highway and the rest, as they say, is history. At least it looks like it wasn't Grant's fault." "How's Bella handling it?" "Honestly Zane, she's not. I'd swear she's numb. She hasn't shed a tear, which normally I'd say is fine as Grant wasn't worth her tears, but that's not Bella." "Do you know when his service is?" "Not yet. The coroner has yet to release his body. Once that happens, then Bella can get the ball rolling. Do you want me to call you when I know?" "Please. And Carmen." "Yeah." "Thanks." "No problem. Bye." Zane ended his call as the forms appeared on his screen. He minimized the screen and dialed Bella's number. After two rings he heard, "Hello?" "Bella, it's Zane." "Hello Zane," she said. Her voice was flat and emotionless. "Is it true?" "Is what true?" "About Grant." "Oh, yes, that. Unfortunately yes, that is very much true." "Are you all right?" "Me? I'm fine." Zane could tell by her tone she was anything but fine. "How are the kids?" "Tommy and Sophie are devastated. Olivia, luckily she's clueless. Did I tell you she's starting to sleep for longer than two hours? We had six amazing hours of sleep last night." "That's wonderful Bella." "I told Grant she'd stop crying in the night soon enough, but that bastard still moved into the guest bedroom." Zane bit his lip. He knew she hadn't full accepted the reality of Grant's death. Much of what she was saying was what she had shared with him during their last Skype call. "She's becoming a big girl now, isn't she?" "She misses you Zane. The kids miss you, and I miss you. When are you coming home?" "Soon I hope." "Good. Shit! I need to go. My mother is here. Skype on Saturday?" "I won't miss it, bye Bella." "Goodbye Zane." He ended the call and knew she wasn't fine. He also knew what he had to do. He opened up the paperwork, and got the ball rolling. ~*~*~ Bella nursed Olivia as Amanda Hamilton paced around the room. "Why hasn't the coroner released his body yet?" asked Amanda. "I don't know," said Bella, flatly. "Where are the other two?" "School." "School?" "Yes, school. There is nothing they can do right now, and having them miss too much school will hurt them later. Besides, their school is having a book fair this week. The kids are going to make a wish list today and later this week we'll go to family night were I'll buy them both some new books." "But their father died!" "I know, they know, and the school knows. I spoke with the school's counselor and she feels having them in school living life as normal will help them cope. They'll miss enough with the funeral service and such. Besides, they have been looking forward to this book fair for a month now and I'd hate for them to miss it." "I don't understand you Bella," snapped Amanda. "Grant died in that horrid crash and you act like nothing's changed." Bella set Olivia on her shoulder, burped her, then put her in the swing and turned it on. Olivia cooed and watched the two women move around. "How should I act Amanda? Should I be hysterical? Stop taking care of my daughter? Ignore my children? Mope around the house?" "I'm not saying that Bella." "Stop acting like Grant was a perfect husband. He wasn't. You want to know the truth, I was about to file for divorce." "What?" "Oh come on Amanda, don't-" the phone interrupted Bella's sentence, keeping her from telling her mother the truth about Grant and his affairs. It was the coroner's office. Grant's body would be released to the funeral home the following day so plans for Grant's funeral could be made. Bella's fight with Amanda was quickly forgotten as phone calls and arrangements were made. ~*~*~ Bella stood in her bedroom, staring aimlessly into her closet. On one side hung her clothes, on the other were Grant's suits. She knew in a few days she'd need to gather them up and send them to a thrift store or homeless shelter, but now, she needed to get dressed. Olivia played with her toes in the crib just outside the closet, and the soft sounds of her cooing and giggling made Bella smile. "Bella?" came her mother's voice from behind her. "Yeah Mom," she said, without turning around. "Did you fill some bottles should you not be able to nurse later?" "They're in the fridge. I've been prepping them for the last couple of days." "Do you need some help?" "With what?" asked Bella, her voice was distant, sounding almost lost. Katherine walked up behind her daughter, placed her hand gently on her shoulder, and said, "It will get easier." "I know." Katherine reached over and grabbed a simple black dress. "This would be nice. It always looks good on you and you'll still be able to nurse Olivia." "Okay," said Bella, taking the dress. "Thanks Mom." Bella stepped out and set the dress on her bed as Katherine said, "Tommy and Sophie are dressed and ready. They are sitting downstairs with Amanda and Thomas." "They're here?" "They just arrived. In fact, they were wondering where Olivia was." "She's here with me. In fact, would you mind getting her dressed for me Mom?" "Not in the least," said Katherine, picking up Olivia. "Oh my, you're getting so big now aren't you?" Bella smiled as she got dressed. "She's been such a good girl. She slept almost six hours last night before needing to eat again." "Oh! But she needs to be changed before she gets dressed." "What? Didn't I just change you little one? I swear, you're just like your father." Katherine glared at Bella, then asked, "Is she now?" "Want me to change her, Mother?" asked Bella, her voice flat and emotionless. "No, I got it. You get ready." Getting Even Ch. 03: The Final Chapter Bella dressed as Katherine changed Olivia's diaper and dressed the little girl in the dark green dress and matching tights. Once dressed, Bella took Olivia into her arms and the two women walked downstairs. Thomas and Amanda were sitting on the sofa with Tommy and Sophie. Thomas was wearing a dark suit, Amanda a black dress. Little Tommy was wearing a suit and Sophie was wearing a navy blue dress and white tights. "There's my other granddaughter," exclaimed Amanda, who rushed over and took Olivia into her arms. "Momma," said Sophie. Bella knelt down and said, "Yes baby." "Why did Daddy die?" Bella shook her head and sighed. "I don't know sweetie. I guess God needed him in heaven." "But I need him here," she whined. Bella set her hand on Sophie's chest. "He's right here, in your heart baby. He'll always be there. No matter what." Tears rolled down Sophie's cheeks. "Really Momma?" "Really baby." Bella hugged Sophie tightly and kissed cheek. Then she extended her arm and gestured for Tommy to join them. He rushed into his mother's arm as she said, "And Daddy's in your heart too, son. You know that right?" "Yeah, I know that," he said softly. "Come on you two, the limo should be here shortly to take us to the church." "It's already here," said Thomas. "It arrived just before you came downstairs. The driver and I put the car seats in so it would be one less thing you'd need to worry about." "Okay then, let's do this, shall we." Bella stood up, took her children's hands, and walked out of the house with her head held high. Olivia and Sophie's car seats placed on the side seats the limo, and once everyone was seated, they headed for the church in silence. Even Olivia was quiet as they rode along. They arrived at the church, just behind the hearse carrying Grant's body. Four of Grant's coworkers were waiting by the curb, to be the pall-bearers for the day's services. When Bella and family stepped out of the limo, they all quietly greeted her. She acknowledged them, then quickly darted into the church as Olivia began to fuss. Once the casket was placed, more guests and mourners arrived. Bella sat in what would normally be the bridal room, nursing Olivia. Amanda and Thomas kept Sophie and Tommy occupied, greeting guests as they arrived. One by one, the church where Bella and Grant were married, filled with mourners and friends. Some asked about Bella's whereabouts, others expressed their condolences to Grant's parents. Grant's sister, Marlee, arrived exclaiming, "Mother! Father! Where's Bella?" "Feeding Olivia," said Amanda. "Oh right," said Marlee, "she and Grant had a baby not too long ago. But why did they name her Olivia?" "That was my idea," said Sophie, proudly. "Oh, hello Sophie," said Marlee, surprised. "I didn't see you there. Where's your brother?" Sophie pointed, "Over there." "Ah yes, the spitting image of his father." "Uncle Zane!" cried Sophie, running toward a tall man in a black suit, entering the church. Zane quickly knelt down and took the small girl into his arms. "Hello princess. How are you today?" Tommy darted over after Sophie. "Hi Uncle Zane." "Hello Tommy," said Zane reaching out and taking the boy into his arm. Marlee, Amanda, and Thomas walked over. "Hello," said Thomas. "And whom might you be?" Zane released the children, stood up, extended his hand, and said, "Zane Masters. I'm a friend of Grant and Bella's. Well, I was anyway." "A friend huh?" questioned Marlee. "And you might be?" asked Zane, his hand still extended. Thomas took Zane's hand and said, "Thomas Hamilton, this is my wife Amanda, and our daughter Marlee." The two men shook hands and Zane instantly could tell, Grant was very much like his father: forceful, strong, and a real alpha-male. "I do wish we were meeting under better circumstances," said Zane. "Zane?" Everyone turned to see Bella holding Olivia, with Katherine standing beside her. It was clear to all that Zane's presence was a surprise to Bella. "Hello Bella," said Zane. "What ... how ... when ... when did you get back?" she asked. "Last night. Carmen called me and told me when the funeral was." "Oh," said Bella, her voice was flat, "that was nice of her." Olivia squirmed in Bella's arms. "She's gotten so big," said Zane. "Yeah, she slept six hours. I knew she'd sleep past two after a while." "Bella!" exclaimed a woman behind Zane. Carmen and Miguel stepped up, passing Zane and hugging Bella. "Hello," Bella said. Carmen turned and smiled. "Zane! Oh I'm so happy were able to make it." "Hello Carmen. Miguel," said Zane. "Zane," said Miguel. The two men shook hands as Carmen said, "She's getting so big." "Yeah, she slept six hours. I told Grant she'd sleep past two after a while." Carmen rubbed Bella's arm, then said, "We're going to find a seat. We'll talk later. Maybe next week we can meet for sushi." Bella smiled weakly. "Sure. That sounds nice." "Great. Miguel, shall we." "I think I will follow Carmen's lead and find a seat myself. I'll see you all later," said Zane, excusing himself from the group. "Uncle Zane?" questioned Marlee. "What are you getting at?" asked Bella. "You're an only child and I'm Grant's only sister." "Zane is a family friend," Bella said, coldly. "Why do you care?" Before Marlee could answer, the minister stepped up and said they were ready to start. Bella handed Olivia off to her mother, took Tommy's and Sophia's hands, and with her head held high, walked down the aisle she had gone down when she married Grant, and took her seat in the front of the church. She could hear the whispers of the crowd, but ignored them. The service was touching. Friends and coworkers of Grant spoke about what a great friend and family man he was. There was a brief slide show presentation showing Grant's life from birth, to his marriage to Bella, and ending with the family picture Zane took the day Olivia was born. After the service in the church, there was a graveside ceremony where Grant's coffin would be laid to rest. Bella nursed Olivia during this, remaining stoic the entire time. Tommy and Sophia cried as they watched their father's coffin lowered into the ground. Some guests whispered about her not crying, wondering if she was all right. Zane watched in silence, debating what he should do next. A reception was held at Bella's home. People shared stories about Grant, or Grant and Bella. Bella was in her hostess mode, making sure no one's glasses were empty, and that they had something to eat. Zane was intercepted by Tommy and Sophie, so he sat with them, playing a game to keep them entertained when Marlee walked up. "So, explain to me how you knew my brother." "Grant was your brother," said Zane, "then I'm sorry for your loss." "You didn't answer my question." "We had some common business associates." "Is that the story you're going with?" "Excuse me?" "Oh, never mind," she said. "I see you're playing with the kids." "I thought this would help." "Help who?" "Bella. Tommy. Sophie." "What about you?" "What about me? I didn't lose a spouse or father recently." "Do you have any kids?" "It's your turn Uncle Zane," said Tommy. "Is it?" questioned Zane. "Are you sure?" Sophie giggled. "Yes, Uncle Zane." "Well, if you'll excuse me, it's my turn and I'm getting my butt kicked here." Marlee watched Zane and the children play for a bit, then wandered off. Zane knew she was fishing and could be a problem later, but he choose to focus on the children. Their laughter was an odd contrast, but a necessary sound at such a somber event. It allowed others to share happy stories about Grant, which opened the gate for others to laugh as well. Bella was taking a rare break in the kitchen, nursing Olivia when Carmen found her. "Hey girl," said Carmen. "Hi." "Lunch time?" asked Carmen, pointing at Olivia. "She hasn't napped with all the commotion, so I'm hoping this feeding will put her to sleep. She's getting so fussy." "She does seem a bit overwhelmed." "My mother said she's over stimulated. I hate to admit it, but I think she's right." Carmen chuckled. "Ouch, admitting your mother is right. No woman ever wants to do that." Bella laughed. "I know, right." "How are you doing?" Bella looked up at Carmen. "How am I doing?" "Yeah. I hear everyone asking you about Olivia, Tommy, or Sophie, but I don't know if anyone has asked how you were doing." "Oh," said Bella, "I guess I'm okay. Did you like the service?" "It was wonderful. Grant would have been pleased." Bella moved Olivia from one breast to the other, fixed her bra and dress, then said, "You know he moved out of the bedroom permanently. I told you that, didn't I?" "Yeah, we talked. Remember, I'm the only one who knows all your secrets." Bella snickered. "Oh yeah, I forgot. Oh, and thanks for telling Zane about all this." "I knew he'd want to know." "It was so nice of him to come. Where is he anyway?" "Getting his ass kicked at Chutes and Ladders with the kids." Bella laughed. "I swear he cheats so they win." "I was watching, he's totally cheating. Sophie is clueless, but I think Tommy is catching on." "Tommy is a smart boy. Just like his father." Katherine walked into the kitchen. "How is she doing?" "She's quieter, calmer." "Is she sleeping?" "Not yet, she's still eating." "That's a good sign. Didn't you say she hadn't been eating as normal these last few days?" "I asked the doctor, she said it was normal, especially with all that's been going on." "Really?" asked Carmen. "With all the stress that Bella's been under," said Katherine, "plus everything else, I'd say that sounds right. Speaking of eating, have you eaten today?" "I guess I haven't had a chance to yet," said Bella. "Bella!" exclaimed Katherine. Olivia's head fell back. Bella looked down and smiled. "She's asleep!" "Here, let me take her upstairs." Katherine took Olivia from Bella's arms, then turned to Carmen. "Will you make sure she eats something?" "Yes Ma'am," said Carmen. Bella fixed her bra and dress as she said, "I'm fine Mother." "I'll be back in a bit," said Katherine, then took Olivia upstairs, and Carmen escorted Bella to the buffet and helped her fix a small plate of food. "I'm not hungry," said Bella. "I know, but with your nursing Olivia, you need to try to eat something." Bella nodded. A few guests walked up and spoke with Bella about Grant and the children. Many expressed their sorrow at his death, or offering to help in the future. Bella and Carmen worked the room together, speaking with guests and sharing stories. Bella saw Zane and the children playing the game off in a corner and smiled. She chose not to bother them as the laughter of her children seemed to help her feel a bit better for a moment. Bella retreated back into the kitchen, rinsing out wine glasses and throwing away trash. Carmen was bringing in glasses and helping her clean when Marlee stepped in. "You know the caterer will do that." "I don't want my house getting trashed," said Bella. Carmen stepped in with some wine glasses in her hands, setting them on the counter, and said, "Sophie just fell asleep on Zane's lap. Your father asked if you minded if he took her to her room." "If he wants to, he can, that would be nice," said Bella. Carmen stepped out as Marlee said, "So, tell me about Uncle Zane." "What's to tell?" "How did you two meet?" Bella frowned. "What business is that of yours?" "Were you sleeping with him?" Bella dropped a wine glass in the sink. The glass shattered. She turned slowly, facing Marlee, and said, "Excuse me?" "All day I've been asking myself, why doesn't Olivia look more like her father? Tommy is practically Grant's clone." "Sophie doesn't look like Grant, she looks like me." "True, but I can see Grant in her. It subtle, but it's there. Olivia on the other hand, looks nothing like Grant." "She's three months old." "Tommy looked like Grant from day one." "So are you implying that neither girl is Grant's?" "I did question Sophie's paternity," said Marlee, smiling wickedly. "I even shared that with Grant, but he swore you were as faithful as the day is long." "I am." "Then explain Zane to me." "Why?" "Why? Because I asked." "So." "So? Really Bella. A mysterious man appears in your life and becomes 'Uncle Zane' to your children. You magically get pregnant over a year after your husband has a vasectomy, and yet, the two of you swear up and down she's his." "You knew he had a vasectomy?" "He stayed with me when he had it done. Said you two were fighting." "That fucking bastard!" cried Bella. "Are you implying my brother was lying?" "Implying? Implying! Bitch! Your brother was the king of lies!" "Don't speak that way about my brother." "I'll speak any fucking way I want!" Bella shouted. "Your dear brother and my beloved husband was a serial man-whore! He fucked any woman he could con into bed! I was nothing more than a trophy wife who looked good on his arm!" "I will not have you talk such trash about my brother!" Carmen was standing just outside the kitchen listening, when she darted off. Zane was sitting with Tommy playing Battleship. "B-7," said Tommy. "Hit," said Zane. "You sank my battleship." "Zane!" she exclaimed, nearly running toward the two. "What is it Carmen?" "You need to come to the kitchen and quick. It's Bella." "Excuse me Tommy," said Zane standing up. "Okay, we'll finish later," said Tommy. As Zane and Carmen approached, they heard a woman say, "... fucking whore!" A glass shattered. "Me?" shrieked Bella. "You're calling me a fucking whore?" Zane and Carmen stood at the kitchen entrance and waited. "I told Grant to divorce your ass after Sophie was born, but he wouldn't do it. Then when he announced you were pregnant with Olivia, I told him you must have cheated on him. But my idiot brother swore you were the most faithful wife in the world. Boy did you have him fooled." "Didn't you ever question why he was having a vasectomy away from home?" "I believed my brother." "So you think we were fighting? It never occurred to you that he might be trying to hide his vasectomy from me to continue with his affairs?" "My brother never had an affair on you!" "Are you fucking kidding me? Wait, how many times did Grant stay with you?" "Three or four times a year for the last seven or eight years." Bella grabbed a wine glass and threw it at Marlee, missing her and hitting the opposite wall. "You! You were the one who enabled him to fuck so many women!" "He wasn't fucking any women, he said he needed a break from you and your bullshit." "Me and my bullshit? Try me and his children! He'd constantly bitch when Tommy was teething because he was so fussy! Sophie had bouts of colic! Olivia's a fucking newborn who isn't old enough to sleep through the night." "A real mother could have kept that away from the father who was working to provide for his family." Bella lunged for Marlee, but Zane stepped in and grabbed her around the waist. "Let me go Zane!" "No," he said. Bella struggled to break free, as Marlee said, "For a family friend, he sure does get rather personal." "Excuse me?" questioned Zane. "You play games with the kids, Sophie falls asleep on your lap, something she never did with Grant." "That's because he rarely spent time with her!" snapped Bella. "Oh please! How long have you two been doing the horizontal mambo?" Zane's grip loosened up just enough for Bella to escape and pounce on Marlee, knocking her to the floor. The two women fought until Zane grabbed Bella and Thomas rushed in and grabbed Marlee. "Get the fuck out of my house!" shrieked Bella "You mean Grant's house!" shouted Marlee, her face swelling from the blows she received from Bella. "NO! I mean my house. Check the deed. Grant put it in my name as a tax dodge. Besides, as his wife, everything he had is now mine!" "My brother loved you!" "The hell he did!" exclaimed Bella, struggling to break free of Zane's grip. "If he fucking loved me, he never would have cheated on me! He never would have left me!" "Grant never fucking left you!" shouted Marlee. "He always fucking left me! He left me for his whores! He left me to hide at your place! He left me! He left me to raise three children alone so he could resume his affair with his new secretary! My only fucking regret was not filing for the divorce sooner!" "Divorce? On what grounds?" "I'd say infidelity, but since this is a no-fault divorce state, it's irreconcilable differences!" "And you think he'd let you have custody of the kids?" "He sure as fuck didn't want them! If he did, he wouldn't have been in that car on his way to another 'No-Tell Motel' with his secretary!" "Bella!" snapped Amanda. "Stop saying such trash!" "It's not trash!" screamed Bella. "It's the truth! He never loved me! He cheated on me every chance he got! Then in the end he left me!" Tears began to fall down Bella's cheeks. "He did love you," said Thomas, still holding Marlee. "No!" sobbed Bella. "If he loved me, why did he leave me? Why wasn't I good enough for him? Why did he cheat on me all the time? Why didn't he love me?" Zane spun Bella around, held her into his chest, and said, "You were too good for him, he wasn't good enough for you." "Excuse me?" snapped Marlee. "Zane's right," said Carmen, finally finding her voice. "Grant wasn't good enough for her. I know, I set up two of Grant's affairs before I knew what a great lady Bella was. I've spent the last ten plus years trying to make that up to her." "Why didn't he love me?" wailed Bella into Zane's chest. She was now hysterically weeping. "He did love you Bella, he just sucked at showing it," said Zane in a soothing voice, holding Bella as tight as he could. "How dare you say such trash?" exclaimed Marlee. "My brother loved her even though she didn't deserve it." "Get her out of here!" shouted Carmen. "She's upsetting Bella." "Why?" bawled Bella. "Why didn't he love me?" Zane held her tight, stroked her hair and said, "It's going to be all right sweetie. Let it out. Just let it out." Bella wept into Zane's chest, her body shook with sobs, make-up ran down her face staining Zane's white shirt, and it seemed to all she was never going to stop crying. Thomas escorted Marlee out and told her to come back in the morning so her and Bella could work things out. Zane and Bella stood in the kitchen as Carmen cleaned up the broken glass. Miguel and Carmen helped clean the kitchen while Bella's sobs began to quiet. Zane scooped her up into his arms. The black stain on his shirt from where her make-up and rubbed off was covered by her limp body. Bella's face was red with black tear stains. Zane quietly carried her out of the kitchen, past the crowd that had gathered to witness Bella's meltdown, and upstairs to her bedroom. He lay her on the bed, removed her shoes, and started to leave when she whispered, "Stay. Please." Zane lay next to her, holding her close, assuring her she would be fine. Tommy came in, his face red and tear stained, and said, "Mommy?" Seeing him stand there, Zane realized all too late he had witnessed Bella's meltdown. Bella tried to reach for him, but could barely move her arms. Zane gestured for Tommy who climbed onto the bed, and snuggled into Bella. Before long, both were sleeping peacefully. Zane carefully slid off the bed, kissed Bella's forehead, and began to leave the room when he found a crying Sophie in the hallway. "What's wrong baby?" Zane asked. "I can't find Momma," she sobbed. Zane scooped her up and said, "She's sleeping in her room. Look." Getting Even Ch. 03: The Final Chapter "Why is Tommy with her?" "Do you want to lay down with Mommy?" "Uh huh," she said. Zane carried Sophie into the room and set her on the bed. Sophie crawled next to Bella who wrapped her arm around her daughter and smiled before drifting off back to sleep. Zane grabbed a blanket and covered the trio, then quietly left the room. Katherine was waiting for him. "You and I need to talk," she said. "About?" "You and my daughter. But not now. Later. Do you mind spending the night?" "Not in the least." "You'll have to take the couch down stairs, unless you want Sophie's room. I've got the guest bedroom with Olivia and the Hoskins's have Tommy's room." "I'll take the couch. Staying in Sophie's room might give people the wrong impression about me." "Good call." They walked downstairs where the few remaining guest inquired about Bella's meltdown. They were all assured she was fine, and finally accepting Grant's death. Everyone made sure they left their contact information before leaving. Carmen and Miguel finished cleaning the kitchen, then told everyone they would return in the morning to make breakfast for the family. Thomas and Amanda retired up stairs and Katherine helped Zane make the couch, then went upstairs to rest. Zane slipped off his shoes and socks, then set his jacket, tie, belt, slacks and shirt on the chair nearby, and slept in his boxers. ~*~*~ The morning sun hit Zane's face and he heard a strange, unfamiliar sound. He opened his eyes to see Olivia in her swing and Katherine in a chair sipping coffee. "Morning," she said. "Morning," he moaned. "Coffee?" "Please." "How do you take it?" "Black." "Get your pants on please," she said, tossing his slacks to him. Katherine left the room as Zane slipped on his slacks. She returned a moment later with a steaming cup of coffee. "Thanks," he said. "Carmen said she'd be here in an hour to fix breakfast. I told her coffee was already on and she thanked me." "How long have you been up?" "Olivia woke up at midnight, two, and five. No matter what, five was her wake-up time. So, we got up and I made some coffee. She seems to like her swing so I put her there and waited for you to wake. I had a feeling you were an early riser." "Occupational hazard." "So, tell me about you and my daughter." "What do you want to know?" "Are you Olivia's father?" Zane choked on his coffee. "Excuse me?" "There have been things Bella has said that have made me question a few things. For example, why were you so willing to sit with Bella when she was in labor?" "She didn't want to be alone and you had the kids." "Why did Tommy call you when he couldn't reach Grant?" "I've been spending a lot of time with him and Sophie." "Cut the crap!" snapped Katherine. "I'm not a fucking idiot. I think you're in love with my daughter. Now tell me the truth. Are you Olivia's biological father?" Zane sighed. "Yes." "How long have you and my daughter been together?" "Since the night Olivia was conceived." Katherine smiled. "Do you love her?" "Olivia, of course." "No, Bella." "I ... I'm not sure." "I see how she is, when you're around. She lights up, she smiles more. You're good for her." "She deserves the best." "I agree. I begged her to leave Grant when she learned about the vasectomy. But she was determined to save her marriage. I've wondered who the sperm donor was, but I've kept my suspicions to myself." "Are you angry with her?" "No. Maybe a bit disappointed, but not angry." Katherine sipped her coffee, then continued. "Bella was about Tommy's age when her father died. I know exactly how much pain she is in. My biggest concern was how emotionless she had been since she got the call. I know Grant wasn't a perfect husband, but her lack of emotion was scaring even me." "Carmen mentioned that as well." "Carmen is a good friend. She told me just before she left last night how bad she felt about helping Grant cheat on Bella, and how she's worked to make up for that. I'm guessing that includes you." "Carmen and I have been ... associates for many years." "Does Bella know?" "She knows Carmen and I were lovers, but that ended a long time ago." "And now you're Bella's lover." Zane took a deep breath. "We were until Olivia was born. Before Bella was cleared to have sex, I had to go to Europe on business and was there until shortly after Carmen called to tell me about Grant's death and later his funeral. I concluded my business in France and took the next flight back." "Only a man in love with a woman would do that." Zane finished his coffee, stood up and said, "Would you like more coffee?" "Sure, but we'll need to make more soon. Carmen and Miguel will be here shortly." "Then maybe we should migrate to the kitchen." "Sounds like a plan. And Olivia's pack and play is all set up." "Mind if I carry her to the kitchen?" asked Zane. "Not in the least. I'll fix our cups and start a second pot," said Katherine, gathering up their cups. Zane turned off the swing and scooped up Olivia. She smiled up at him. "Hi beautiful. Did you miss me?" Olivia waved her arms and giggled. Zane kissed her forehead and carried her into the kitchen. Katherine smiled and said, "She looks good in your arms. And she looks like you." "Really? I look at her and see Bella." "I see you both. It's like she's the perfect hybrid of the two of you. See, Tommy looks a lot like Grant, Sophie is Bella's clone, but Olivia, she's the perfect blend of the two of you." Zane set Olivia into the pack and play and sat at the table. "Thanks." "I think that's what set Marlee off, she realized Olivia looked more like you than Grant. Though to be honest, she's never been all that nice to Bella. She puts on a good front, but then treats her like shit." "I agree." ~*~*~ Bella woke with a start. Tommy and Sophie were sleeping near her, and there was no sound from the crib. She quietly slipped off the bed and saw the empty crib. For a moment, she panicked, then realized her mother must have her. Bella stepped into the bathroom where she saw her refection. Her hair was a matted mess and her face was red, blotchy, and stained with black from her mascara. She took care of her bathroom needs, began to wash her face, but decided a quick shower was a better option. The warm water ran over her achy body as she wept. The pain deep within her radiated outward. Grant was dead. She scrubbed her skin and washed her hair until the water turned cold. Then she stepped out, wrapped a towel around her. She slipped out, grabbed a clean t-shirt, yoga pants, and undergarments, and slid back into the bathroom. She dressed quietly, combed her hair, and padded downstairs. Her head pounded and her body ached. She knew her emotional outburst was the cause of this pain. She followed the scent of coffee to find Zane and her mother talking, and Olivia playing. "Good morning," said Katherine. "Hey beautiful," said Zane. "Ugh," moaned Bella. Katherine quickly rose and fixed Bella a cup of coffee as she sat next to Zane. "Sleep well?" he asked. "I guess," she said. "I'm so sorry about what happened last night." "Nothing to be sorry for," said Zane. "From what I saw, you finally accepted Grant's death." The doorbell rang. "That must be Carmen and Miguel," said Katherine. "Oh no!" moaned Bella. "I don't want anyone to see me like this." "Oh hush, you look fine," said Katherine. "Besides, Carmen and Miguel are fixing everyone breakfast, and after last night, the idea of not cooking sounds good to me." Katherine quickly left the room and Bella looked in on her daughter. "She's in a good mood." "You're mother knows about her." "What?" exclaimed Bella. "She figured it out. Especially since she knew about Grant's vasectomy." "Yeah, I called her hysterical about that. She told me to leave Grant and be done with him, but I was determined to save my marriage. I thought for sure I could." "Grant was a pussy-hound. I not surprised he went back to his old ways." "Good morning all!" exclaimed Carmen. "Shhh!" hissed Bella. "She just woke up," said Zane. Carmen hugged Bella and said softly, "How ya feeling sweetie?" "Like shit," moaned Bella. "Well, Miguel and I are here now to fix everyone breakfast burritos. Where are the kids?" "Sleeping in my bed still," said Bella. "Well, they'll be up soon and hungry. I'll get started." "Good morning all," said Miguel, carrying several bags in his arms. "Need some help man?" asked Zane. "Naw, I got it." Carmen and Miguel quickly started cooking. It didn't take long for the kitchen to fill with the aroma of fresh coffee and cooking food. Amanda and Thomas came down and joined everyone for coffee. Tommy wandered down a few minutes after, with Sophie right behind him. Carmen fed the children first, then the adults. The food was delicious, and even though Bella was the last to finish, she did finish. Carmen and Miguel cleaned the kitchen as Bella nursed Olivia. Zane and Tommy finished their game. The doorbell rang, and soon Marlee appeared in the kitchen. Her face was swollen and bruised from the night before. "Morning Bella," she said. "Marlee," said Bella, coldly. "Dad said I should come back so we can talk." "I've said all I've got to say to you last night." "Bella," pleaded Amanda, "give Marlee a chance." Bella sighed, "Fine, we can go into Grant's office." Bella handed Olivia off to her mother, then led Marlee to Grant's old office. It was a large room with an oak desk, computer, a fine leather desk chair, two nice chairs, a sofa, bookcases filled with books, and pictures of the family all around. "Nice office," said Marlee. "I designed it for Grant to work at home after I had Tommy," said Bella. "I was hoping he'd be able to work from home more." "Did he?" Bella glared at Marlee. "I think you know the fucking answer to that." "Look, about what happened last night," began Marlee, "I forgive you for acting the way you did." "You ... forgive me?" questioned Bella. "You were so grief stricken you didn't know what you were saying." "Get out Marlee," snapped Bella. "I can see your return was a huge mistake." "Are you implying that my brother did what you claimed?" "No, I'm not implying shit. He cheated on me. He lied to me. And now, I've got three children I must tend to and raise on my own now. Good day Marlee." Bella started to leave the room when Marlee said, "And what about Zane?" Bella paused. "What about him?" "Is he going to be the children's new father?" "What business is it of yours?" "That is my niece and nephew." "Nieces." "I still question Olivia's paternity." "Grant didn't. He signed her birth certificate." "He was a fool, and you're a whore." Bella slapped Marlee hard. "Get the fuck out of my house and don't you ever come back." Marlee rubbed her face, then said, "This isn't over Bella." "Yes, it is. Now leave before you'll need to be carried out." Marlee's face was red as she turned on her heels and stormed out. Zane, who was standing just outside the office listening, stepped into the room wearing his suit from the night before. "Nice space." "Thanks. Oh my God!" "What?" "Your shirt! Did I do that?" "It's no big deal. I've got a great laundry service. They even got red wine out of my favorite Armani suit last year." "Send me the bill, I'll pay for it." "Don't worry about it. I got a call, I need to go." "Right, duty calls." Zane sighed. "Are you going to be all right?" "I'll survive. Thanks for all you did with the kids. I really appreciate it." Zane stepped up and hugged Bella. "I'll call you in a few days." "Yeah, Skype on Saturday like always." Zane felt a pain deep within his chest. He felt the dismissive tone in Bella's voice. "I will call. You'll see." "Bye Zane. Thanks again for everything." Zane hugged Bella, then left. He kissed Sophie and hugged Tommy, bade everyone goodbye and left. He drove back to his apartment, then called his boss. It was time to put the final pieces of his plan into motion before he lost Bella forever. ~*~*~ A month after the funeral, Bella was sitting in Grant's lawyer's office awaiting the reading of Grant's will. Amanda and Thomas were there, as was Marlee. Bella nursed Olivia as Amanda asked, "Are the kids at school?" "Yeah," said Bella. "They don't need to be here for this. They don't even understand what a will is." "I was hoping to see my niece and nephew," snapped Marlee. "You mean nieces, don't you," snapped Bella. "She's not Grant's daughter," said Marlee, pointing at Olivia. Before Bella could respond, the lawyer walked in and sat behind his desk. "Thank you all for coming. I do wish it was under better circumstances." "I'm sure Grant didn't expect it to happen this soon," said Bella, moving Olivia to her shoulder to burp her. "Well," said the lawyer, "that's what's interesting. Like with Thomas and Sophia, Grant added Olivia to his will shortly after she was born." "He what?" questioned Marlee. "Olivia's not even his daughter." "Yes she is!" roared Bella. Olivia's body stiffened up, then a loud burp escaped her. "Goodness," said Bella in a calmer tone. "You needed that now didn't you, Little Bit." "I think it was shortly after Olivia was born," said the lawyer rifling through some papers, ignoring the tension between the two women. "Ah yes, here it is, it was right after the third DNA test came back confirming he was her father." Bella felt her eyes grow wide as Marlee exclaimed, "Bullshit! That little bastard isn't my brother's child!" "Here are the results," said the lawyer, handing Marlee the paperwork. As Marlee took the paper, Bella asked, "Wait, Grant had a DNA test done on all of our children?" "Of course. Grant wanted to be sure he was taking care of his children." Bella bit her lip. She was pissed that Grant questioned the paternity of Tommy and Sophie, but wondered how he got a test that said Olivia was his, when they knew she was Zane's daughter. She shifted Olivia's position so she was facing the room. Marlee read the paper, then said, "I don't fucking believe it." Thomas took the paper from her hand and said, "Well, according to this, Olivia is Grant's daughter. Thus, our granddaughter." "Not that we ever questioned it," added Amanda. Bella wanted to respond, but thought better of it. Olivia squirmed in her arms as she said, "Easy Little Bit, we'll be going home soon enough." The lawyer continued, "Grant left a sizable trust for Thomas Grant, Sophia Isabella, and Olivia Katherine. The children can access the money for college after they graduate high school, but otherwise the money stays locked until they reach the age of 35." "Typical Grant," said Bella. "Just when I thought I knew him, he still surprises me." "What about the other two?" snapped Marlee. "They both can't be Grant's!" "Here," said the lawyer, handing her two more papers. "This should answer that question." Marlee snatched the papers from his hand and read them over. "I don't fucking believe it." "Now, Grant did leave a small account for his parents should they outlive him." "Which shouldn't have happened," said Thomas, mournfully. "I agree," said Bella softly as she held the squirming Olivia. "So, since it's clear that Olivia is our granddaughter, and always has been, may I hold her Bella?" asked Amanda. "Sure," said Bella, handing the squirmy baby to her mother. Marlee handed the papers back to the lawyer and said, "I still think there's something hinkey here." "Think what you will," snapped Bella. "Now, can we get this over with? I need to pick up Tommy and Sophie from school soon." "Of course Mrs. Hamilton. So, as I stated before, there are three trusts for the three children. The rest of the estate is of course Mrs. Hamilton, except for an account for Mr. Thomas Hamilton and Mrs. Amanda Hamilton in the amount of one-hundred thousand dollars, and this check for Marlee Hamilton for one dollar." "One-dollar?" asked Marlee. "It seems that the late Mr. Hamilton left a stipulation in his will that if anyone questioned the paternity of any of his children, they would forfeit their portion of his estate and receive a check for one-dollar." "Are you fucking kidding me?" shrieked Marlee, causing Olivia to cry. "May I step out?" asked Amanda. "I think Olivia needs to be changed." "You want me to do it?" asked Bella. "I've got it hon," said Amanda, grabbing the diaper bag. "The bathroom?" "Down the hall to the left," said the lawyer. "My secretary can show you." "Thank you," said Amanda, carrying the screaming baby out of the room. "I'm going to call my lawyer," snapped Marlee. "Go ahead. You'll see this is completely legal," said the lawyer. "Enough already Marlee," barked Thomas. "You've upset Bella, you upset Olivia, and you've upset your mother." "But Dad!" cried Marlee. "I said, enough!" Bella sat in stunned silence. Marlee started to open her mouth, then stopped, and sat back down. Even the lawyer was stunned into silence for a moment, then said, "I will need you all to sign some documents before you leave. If there are no more questions, we can wrap this up." Thomas made Marlee sign her forms first, then called Amanda back into the room and they quickly signed the forms. Bella sat holding a sleepy and restless Olivia, watching everyone sign their forms. Thomas and Amanda bade Bella goodbye, escorting Marlee from the office. Then Bella signed her paperwork. "May I see those DNA tests on the kids?" Bella asked. "Sure," he said, handing her the forms. Bella looked over the test carefully, then caught what explained everything. The test for Olivia had been duplicated and Grant's name had been put on it in place of the father where Zane's had been. She smiled to herself and glanced up at the ceiling. "Thank you," she mouthed. "Did you say something?" asked the lawyer. "Just thanking Grant for taking care of our kids the best way he could." "He was so excited when he came to see me about Olivia. He also knew his sister would cause problems. It's why the check was prewritten. Had she kept her mouth shut, she would have gotten the same amount his parents got." "So who gets her money now?" "It will be divided among the three children." "Perfect!" Bella exclaimed. "Well, I'd best be going now. Hopefully, she'll fall asleep on the way home." "Good luck Mrs. Hamilton. Don't hesitate to call me if you need anything." Bella gathered up her things, then paused before she left. "Grant didn't say anything about my getting remarried someday, did he?" "He said many times you had enough love in your heart to love another man one day, should you outlive him. I'm sure he was right. He did suggest you get a prenuptial agreement though." "That would be Grant. He would want me to learn from his mistake." "You think him not having you sign a prenup was a mistake?" "Wasn't it?" "Mrs. Hamilton, Grant knew you wanted a divorce. He told me to give you whatever you wanted if you filed. I'm guessing he died before you could serve him." "Yeah," said Bella. "I came across the divorce when I was pulling the will. You should also know, he had no intention in changing his will. He loved you, even if he wasn't a perfect husband." "He cheated on me," said Bella, coldly. "I know. And I'm sorry." Bella felt a tear fall down her cheek. "He broke my heart." "I know that too. But what I also know is that he loved you, he just couldn't show you." "I don't know why." "Neither did he. Goodbye Mrs. Hamilton. I'll be in touch." Bella shook the lawyer's hand, wiped her face and walked out. She strapped Olivia into her car seat and drove home. The radio started to play Whitney Houston's, "I Will Always Love You," and Bella started to think. Tears rolled down her cheeks as she thought about what the lawyer had said, and how Zane had for the most part, ended their relationship. Olivia wailed the whole way home, despite Bella's pleas for her to calm down. Her mother was waiting at the house when she arrived. Getting Even Ch. 03: The Final Chapter Bella leapt out of her car and asked, "What's wrong?" "Nothing dear," said Katherine. "How did it go with the lawyer?" Bella removed the screaming Olivia from the car. "Fine, except Marlee had a temper tantrum." "That's no surprise. Now, give me Little Bit, let me try to calm her down." Bella handed Olivia to her mother who quickly quieted the baby down. "Fucking Marlee upset her, and now I'm not good enough to calm her down!" Tears rolled down Bella's cheeks. "Stop it!" hissed Katherine, then looked down at Olivia. "Olivia's picking up on Mommy's stress, now aren't you honey." Bella sighed and wiped her cheeks. "Grant forged the DNA test showing Olivia was his, not Zane's." "Typical Grant. Speaking of Zane, have you talked to him lately?" Bella shook her head. "Not since the morning after the funeral. He said he'd call, but he never did. The kids think he's in Europe again." "I'm sorry Bella." "I knew it would happen. I mean, what guy wants an instant family? He knew when I told him I was pregnant with Olivia I'd never force him to stay. I guess he decided he wanted to go back to his old life. I can't say that I blame him." "You never know Bella. Now, I know you need to pick up Tommy and Sophie, but why don't you go inside and relax and I'll go pick up the kids." "What are you playing at Mother?" "You haven't had a break since Grant died. It's been non-stop for you except when you lost it at the service. You need some 'you time.'" Bella sighed. The idea of being home alone, even for a few minutes, sounded good to her "Do you want to take my car?" "Sure, since Olivia's and Sophie's car seats are already set. Now, go inside, have a glass of wine, and relax." "I'm still nursing." "Then have a cup of hot chocolate. Run yourself a hot bath and relax. I'll take care of the kids." Bella hugged her mother and kissed an almost unconscious Olivia. "Thanks Mom! I love you. And I love you too, Olivia." Olivia cooed as Katherine said, "You're welcome Baby Girl. Now go!" Bella smiled. "Yes Mom!" Bella walked into the house where she saw dozens of roses all around. Confused, she looked around to find Zane standing in the living room, wearing his best Armani suit. His dark hair was styled neatly and his brown eyes sparkled. In his hands, he held a dozen long-stemmed, red roses. "Zane?" "Hello Bella." "What are you doing here?" "I wanted to celebrate my promotion," he said handing her the flowers. "You got it?" exclaimed Bella. "I did indeed. And I told you that when I got it, I'd hire you as my virtual assistant." "So, is that why you are here?" "Not entirely." "Then why are you here?" asked Bella, setting the roses on a nearby table. Zane took Bella's hand into his, looked deep into her blue eyes, and said, "To tell you that over the past year, I've fallen madly in love with you." "You what?" "I haven't fucked another woman since before Grant's birthday party, and you're the only woman I want to be with. I want to share my life with you and the kids. It's why I worked so hard in Europe after Olivia was born. To prove to you that I am worthy of you." Bella stood in stunned silence, listening to Zane's words. Zane brushed her hair from her eyes and said, "It's up to you Bella. Say the word and I'm gone." Bella's eyes welled up with tears and her body shook. "Why would I do that? I'm the one not worthy of you." Zane wrapped his arms around Bella and said, "You are the most amazing woman I've ever met, Bella. I love you." "I love you too, Zane." Zane leaned down and kissed Bella softly on the lips, then more passionately as he slipped his tongue into her mouth. At the window, Katherine smiled, wiped a tear from her cheek, and whispered to the sleeping Olivia, "I knew your momma was a smart girl. Now, let's go get your brother and sister and give your parents some time alone." ~*~*~ Bella sat at what was Grant's desk when the phone rang. "Zane Master's office." The speaker was one of Zane's clients. "Yes Mr. Anderson, I have it right here." Bella shifted her weight in her seat as she listened. "Mr. Master's will be available tomorrow at two. Will that work?" She moved again, typing into her computer, paused, then resumed her typing. "Okay, I've got you down for two o'clock tomorrow. I'll let Mr. Master's know you called. Thank you." She ended the call and looked down at Zane's head between her legs as he licked her pussy. She panted as he sucked her clit into his mouth, making her squirm and moan. "Oh fuck!" she moaned. Zane smiled wickedly, knowing she was close to cumming, and enjoying teasing her. He also knew their time was limited so he slid two fingers into her pussy and sucked harder. Bella panted and moaned as her orgasm raged through her body, coating his face. "Stand up!" he growled as he climbed out from under her desk. Bella stood and leaned over the desk. Zane moved her skirt over her ass, and removed his throbbing cock. It slid easily into her sopping pussy, filling her perfectly. He pounded her, knowing he had to finish soon. He leaned over and kissed her neck as he fucked her. The aroma of their lovemaking filled the room. "Come for me," growled Zane. Bella didn't need to be told twice. His hot breath helped push her over the edge as her second orgasm raged through her body, and pushed Zane into his climax. His cock pulsed inside her, as he nibbled her earlobe. "I love you, Mrs. Masters." Bella smiled, looking at the diamond and platinum ring on her left hand. "I love you too, Mr. Masters." Zane pulled out and stood Bella up. "I love our lunchtime encounters." "As do I," she replied. They kissed, then heard, "Momma!" Bella fixed her skirt, then stepped up saying, "Coming Olivia!" Zane slipped off to the bathroom, cleaned up, and stepped out. Bella came down the stairs holding the three-year-old Olivia in her arms. "Daddy!" she cried. Bella sat her down and she ran into Zane's arms. Bella slipped into the bathroom where Zane had left her panties and cleaned herself up. She stepped out and said, "Mr. Anderson called. You've got a meeting with him tomorrow at two." "Thank you Bella," he said with a wink. Then he faced Olivia and said, "And how about you and I pick up Tommy and Sophie from school?" "Can I Momma?" "Sure," said Bella, smiling. "You be a good girl for Daddy and I'll see you when you get back." Zane kissed Bella's lips, then carried Olivia out to the van. Bella sat back in her office chair, savoring the sweet smell of sex from their lovemaking mixing with the scent of fine leather from her chair, and smiled. She stared at her wedding ring, remembered when Zane put it on her in the private ceremony with his mom, her mom, Carmen, Miguel, and the kids. Now, a year later, her and Zane were working together, and raising the kids. The phone rang again. "Zane Master's office," she said. "No, Mr. Master's isn't available right now, may I take a message?" Bella wrote the message down. "Yes sir, I'll let him know when he gets back." Bella smiled at the new family pictures in the office that was once Grant's and smiled. She finally had the happy family she had always longed for, just not with the man she thought it would be with. Zane came in with the kids happily chattering about the upcoming book fair and asking about what was for dinner. Bella smiled and knew she would never need a justice fuck, ever again.