Chapter Seven

May 1926

On the walk to his office from his packed club below, Sterling was in a fine mood, thinking about the last few months. A loving wife on his arm. A booming business. More dough than he could spend. Then, he opened the door and froze at the sight before him. A raven-haired woman, adorned in a green silk dress stretched over her perfect body, stood with her back to him. If he hadn’t just seen his wife performing on stage downstairs, he’d have sworn she stood in his office. Suddenly, the mystery woman spun around so he could see her face — his breath caught in his chest.

“Stella?”

“Hello, Sterling. I hope you don’t mind; I let myself in.”

“What are you doing here?”

She sashayed over to stand directly in front of him. Tracing the lapels of his jacket with her long, red nails, she purred, “I missed you.”

◇◇◇

Sterling darted in and out of the crowd of patrons to get to Duke’s table, sat down, and blurted out, “Do you have any plans tonight?”

“You’re looking at my plans.” Duke noticed that his friend looked uncharacteristically bothered, but he decided not to pry. 

“I need a favor,” Sterling said while sliding folded bills across the table.

Duke eyes the bills without touching them. “What’s the favor?”

“I have some sudden… business… and I’d promised to take Pearl out to dinner after this number. Would you take her out? You know all the classy joints around here. Tell her about your next flick or something. She loves that showbiz stuff.”

Duke sat quietly for a few moments and then pushed the bills back to Sterling, who frowned at the gesture, assuming his request was about to be denied. Duke indulged in a lingering look at Pearl. You're a fool, Sterling. Turning his attention back to his friend, he stated, “I don’t need to be paid to take a doll like Pearl out to dinner. How long do I need to keep her out?”

Sterling smiled and tucked his bills back inside his pocket. “Just a few hours, and thank you. Give her my apologies?”

“Sure thing. And good luck with your business."

◇◇◇

Sterling walked back into his office and shook his head, still not believing her presence. 

"Why are you really here, Stella?" 

Instead of answering, she walked around his office, fingering the expensive paintings. 

"So, this is all yours?" 

"Yes, it is."

"You said you'd be a big shot one day, and here you are." 

"And you didn't want to wait, so you chose to move to Chicago with Johnny." 

"I never stopped loving…"

"Don't," he interrupted, "I have Pearl now."

She wrinkled her face at the mention of his wife's name.

"Why don't you get us some bubbly, Sterling? I assume Lucky's keeping you well-supplied." 

He poured some champagne and walked back to her, but instead of accepting her drink, she moved her hands to his zipper. 

“What do you think you’re doing?”

She looked him in the eyes, pouting her cupid's bow lips. “Johnny two-timed me.”

“So, you want to use me to settle the score?” He looked for a place to set the drinks, but the nearest table was out of reach. “Forget it, dollface.”

She grabbed his tie, bringing his face within an inch of hers. “You don’t remember how good we were together?”

He growled. “Damn you, Stella.”

"You know you still love me," she purred, then pressed her lips against his. 

He jerked backward. “Damn you,” he groaned again, gripping the glasses tighter, trying to keep the drinks from spilling. “You can’t just show up expecting to pick up where we left off. I love my wife." 

“Does your wife kiss you like I do?” she teased. “I’m betting not. Wouldn’t want to smear her perfectly-applied lipstick, no doubt.” She traced his lips with her fingertip. 

“Do not speak about my wife.” His breathing became labored as he struggled to resist her advances. You’re still a looker, Stella. I give you that. He moved to set the glasses on a side table, then gathered himself to turn back to face her. “You can’t just drop back into my life and think you have control over me. You don’t. You chose him, so you’re stuck with that choice.”

Her cheeks reddened, and she snarled at him. “You’ve gone soft in every way.”

“And you’ve turned into a whore.”

Slap!

Her surprise slap enraged him… that rage mixed with an undeniable lust for her fueled his next move. He grabbed her wrists, and pulled her roughly against him, mashing his mouth against hers. 

Chapter Eight

June 1926

Pearl walked through the club's front door, then stopped in her tracks at the sight of Duke. 

Butterflies. Pearl knew what they were — because of him. She stood stuck to the floor while the fluttering persisted in her lower tummy. She scolded herself, but heat rushed to her lady parts despite her guilty feelings. Sterling was charming, but could be intense. He lacked the laid-back playfulness she enjoyed with Duke. 

Ever since their first dinner a month ago, Duke dropped by the club more often to watch her sing. He always appeared by her side, warming her cheeks with his compliments when James and Sterling were otherwise occupied. Her attraction to him had grown tenfold. Oh, Mama, I wish you were here. I've found myself in a real mess. 

"Hello, Duke. What brings you to the club this early?" she said, walking toward him, trying to hide her excitement.

"Hi, gorgeous," he rose from the piano bench and brought her hand to his lips. "I have something I want to discuss with your husband." 

Her eyes locked onto his mouth that had called her such a flattering name, and she longed to know how it felt to be kissed by him. A smile crept across his face as if he knew what she’d been thinking, and she reddened in embarrassment. "He's… he’s not here… but… but should be here shortly if you want to wait." 

“I know. James was here earlier, lurking about, and briefly talked to me. What's with him anyway?"

"He's always been very sweet to me, and Sterling trusts him… says he'd never double-cross him." 

"He's hard-boiled if you ask me." 

Pearl shared a closeness with James and didn't like talking about him behind his back, so she decided to change Duke's focus and slid onto the bench beside him, rising briefly to smooth her dress. His eyes followed her hands, and thoughts a man shouldn't have about another man's wife roamed around in his head. As for Pearl, her heart pitter-pattered at her proximity to him.  

"What were you playing? It's beautiful," she asked, flashing him her brightest smile. 

"Just a little something I'm writing. Would you like me to teach you the chorus notes?" 

"Sure, I'd love to learn to play." Her hand bravely brushed his thigh as she scooted closer, bumping up against him. 

"Watch my fingers." He played eight notes. "Now, you try." 

She playfully bumped his fingers off the keys and replaced them with her delicate ones. He watched her beautiful eyes narrow in determination as she mimicked the note pattern he'd just played. 

"Attagirl! You're a natural, Pearl!" What I wouldn’t give to sit you on this keyboard and take you right here. 

She beamed, happy to impress him. "Teach me more!" 

Trying again to redirect his lusty thoughts, he played another eight notes, then gestured to the keys for her turn. Again, she perfectly mimicked him and turned her face toward him, eager for his response. 

I’m playing with fire, but… He reached to tuck a stray tendril behind her ear, his finger tracing her jaw on the way back. She tilted her head, trapping his hand against her collarbone. Their eyes locked with one another, speaking what couldn’t be said aloud. 

He would have kissed her right then and there if they hadn’t been in her husband’s club, so he withdrew his hand and said, "You've got it, gorgeous. Now, put it all together." 

She played the melodic sequence of notes, and he wrapped his arm around her and squeezed her shoulder when she finished. She enjoyed their touches and responded by laying her head briefly against his shoulder. They held their positions as long as they dared, then straightened back up. They both knew this little teasing game they played was dangerous.  

"Now, I will add the bass while you play the treble." He counted down, and they played together with their shoulders brushing against each other.

"I did it! I did it!" She squealed with excitement, then forgot where she was and turned, throwing her arms around him. 

He took advantage of their closeness to sniff her sweet perfume behind her ear while running a hand down to rest on the small of her back. The sound of slow claps interrupted their embrace. They abruptly pulled apart and turned to find Sterling standing in a doorway a few feet away — his mustache twisted in a curious expression. 

"Oh, hi, darling… umm… Duke was just teaching me how to play the piano." She slid off the bench and hurried to his side, scolding her blushing cheeks. Sterling firmly clasped her hand, possessively pulling her closer. 

"Yes, Duke enjoys teaching the ladies many things," Sterling said dryly.

Awkward silence sucked the air out of the room before Duke finally spoke. "Sterling, I came by to talk to you if you have a few moments." 

"I always make time for a friend, Duke. Let's move to my office." 

They walked down the hall in silence while Duke pondered how best to broach the subject. Once in his office, the two men sat down opposite one another. 

Duke leaned forward, clasping his hands in front of him, casually stating, "Sterling, your wife is a real talent."

Hearing Duke mention his wife annoyed him. "I know. I hired her, remember." 

Duke chuckled, trying to lighten Sterling's mood that he sensed was less than jovial.  "Hollywood is currently looking for some gals for a new flick I’m co-starring in, and I think there might be a spot for Pearl as a chorus girl.”

"No."

"But—"

Sterling cut him off, shaking his head. "I said, 'No.' Pearl belongs here, not in Hollywood."

Duke frowned. “It’s maybe a three-month shoot, Sterling. It will be the first movie with sound on the silver screen — a real good opportunity to launch her career to the next level. Al Jolson's set to star as the lead.”

Sterling slammed his fist down on the side table. “I am her husband. And I will decide what’s best for Pearl. Do. You. Understand?" 

Duke sat back in his chair, eyeing Sterling and trying to formulate a response. 

Sterling's eyes grew dark, and his tone ominous. “I mean it. Not a word to her, Duke. We’ve been friends for a long time. I’d hate for that friendship to meet an unpleasant end.”

Duke furrowed his brows and stood up. “Hey, friend, that sounds like a threat of some kind.”

Sterling stood and walked toward the bar, pouring another drink. He took a deep breath and decided he didn't want beef with him as it would be bad for business. Instead, he offered the poured drink to Duke. “Let’s just forget about this conversation, shall we? I’ve set up your poker game tonight. Got two of my best gals working the room for you. Plenty of liquor and anything else you and your friends might need.”

“Thank you.” Duke raised his glass to Sterling and attempted to hide his disappointment. He’d hoped to get the chance to spend more time with the lovely Pearl away from her husband's smothering presence. You win, for now, Sterling, but I'm not one to give up easily. 

Chapter Nine

July 1926

Pearl was looking for her husband when she stumbled upon him arguing outside his office with one of the bartenders. James was there too and averted her questioning gaze, quickly shoving the young man through the door. Sterling paused long enough to acknowledge her and say, "I've got some business, Pearl, then I'll be with you." 

She watched him close his door, and an ill feeling spread over her. Something terrible was about to happen; she just knew it. 

Curiosity got the best of her, and she moved closer to his door to listen. Her husband's booming voice accusing the man of selling drugs in his club drowned out the bartender's softer pleas for forgiveness. A muffled scream of pain followed, and she covered her ears, stepping back from the door. Before she could fully retreat, the door flew open, and James escorted the white-faced, trembling man from the office. She looked down and saw a blood-soaked rag where one of the man's fingers should be and covered her mouth, gasping. Bile rose from her stomach, and she fled to the ladies' room to vomit. When she finished retching and washed her face, she opened the bathroom door to find Sterling leaning against the wall. 

"I'm sorry you saw that, Pearl." His tone — emotionless — unraveled her further. 

She looked upon him with fearful eyes. "You… you did that?" She spat, "You're a monster!" 

He moved towards her and grabbed her roughly by the arm. "He disrespected me, Pearl! Selling drugs in my club! The fuzz turns the other way at the alcohol but wouldn't hesitate to shut me down for drugs." He released her, then waved his arms in dramatic sweeping motions. "If I'm not in control, let people get away with disrespecting me, then all this goes away. The club. The apartment. The cars. The jewels. The fancy dinners. All of it!" 

"I don't want any of it if that's what it takes to keep it!" She screamed at him, her teeth clenched, tears ruining her makeup. 

He pinned her against the wall by her shoulders with one swift movement, his face so close to hers she tasted the smoke on his breath. "You are a liar! Remember, I rescued you from a rat-infested apartment with no more than a few dollars to your name, Dorothy Jean!" 

Hearing her birth name startled her and reminded her of her meager life before him. Reminded her of her mama’s last words to her. “Marry a good man, Dorothy,” she’d said. A good man. Was Sterling a good man? She questioned that now.

His yelling interrupted her thoughts. "You are nothing without me. Nothing. Remember that." Then he released her and walked away, leaving her sobbing against the wall. 

Pearl couldn’t shake the vision of the man’s bloody hand or her husband’s rude behavior toward her. I have to get out of here!

She fled down the hall, through the club, and ran smack into Duke coming through the front door. “Whoa, doll, where’s the fire?”

He saw her tears when she wasn’t fast enough to hide her face. “Hey, Pearl, what’s got you so upset?” He gently placed a finger on her chin, turning her face towards him. “You can tell me.”

Looking into his caring blue eyes, she knew she could trust him. “Oh, Duke. It was awful… just awful,” and she collapsed against him, laying her head on his shoulder, sobbing. “Take me away from here… please.”

“Sure thing, Pearl. I’ve got you.” Cradling her against his side, he guided her out the door. 

Having walked in on the scene between Duke and Pearl, Sterling had kept to the shadows, watching. As jealousy boiled up inside of him, he lit a cigarette. Just what do you think you’re doing, friend? 

James spoke from behind him. "Want me to bring her back, boss?" 

Sterling didn't readily answer, so James continued, "I've been watching him, and I don't like the way he looks at her. No man should look at another man's wife that way." 

Sterling turned around to face his loyal friend and placed his hand on his shoulder. "Leave her be, but thank you, James." 

James nodded, then turned and walked away, but his mind churned. Sterling had saved his life, so he'd protect him and everything that belonged to him. Don't worry, Boss; I won't let you lose your wife like I lost my Anna. 

Sterling walked over to the bar, picked up the candlestick phone, and then dialed a number. When the man on the other end answered, he said, “Yeah, it's Sterling Rossini. I have a job for you.”

Chapter Ten

July 1926

I shouldn't do this. 

I have to stop. 

But she couldn't.  

Pearl found herself in Duke’s suite at the luxurious Hotel Elysée, a playground for the rich and famous and, as luck would have it, just a short walk from The Black Rabbit. Seeing her upset, Duke had suggested they retreat there. “Let’s get you away from prying eyes,” he’d said. 

Once within the privacy of the room, however, her upset turned to something else. Her attraction for Duke had been waiting for an excuse, and her husband’s shocking behavior had just given her one.

Passion consumed them like fire, their lips mashed together with the intensity of long-lost lovers. Then, her conscience smacked her in the face. 

“I can’t,” she panted, breaking their kiss.

He cupped her face within the palms of his soft hands — hands that’d never found themselves dirtied by the deeds committed by men like Sterling. “Tell me you don’t feel the same burn for me that I feel for you.”

She turned her face to kiss his palm, covering his hands with hers. Wincing in emotional turmoil, she sharply inhaled and cried, “I have to leave…” 

Before Duke could respond, she fled from his room, not looking back until she stood outside the hotel, tears streaming down her flushed cheeks. 

Duke stood glued to the window, waiting for the raven-haired beauty to appear below. Upon seeing her, his unfulfilled longing intensified to torturous levels. 

Pearl, do you know what you do to me? 

He decided then and there he'd need to change his strategy. 

◇◇◇

She walked back into the club, dreading facing her husband, yet knowing she must. Running off with Duke had been a mistake, and it scared her how close she came to almost breaking her marriage vows. Sterling was right — she was nothing before him. 

"He's trouble, Pearl." 

She turned her head to see James sitting in a chair against the wall, his face grimacing. 

Marching towards him with hands perched on her slender hips, she said, "Well, you might have told me that before I married him, James."

"I meant Duke." 

She sheepishly looked away at the mention of the movie star's name. "I'm sure I don't know what you mean."

James rose, towering over her. "Pearl, I'm just looking out for you… and Sterling." 

She nodded, knowing he spoke the truth, and she was still unable to meet his all-knowing gaze. James mistook her averted eyes for disdain towards him. He deeply regretted what she’d seen earlier. Since he’d first laid eyes upon her in that diner, he had viewed her as a delicate angel, much like his Anna. 

"You sore at me, Pearl?" 

Hugging herself, she shuddered at the earlier memory outside Sterling’s office. "I can't believe you'd do that to another man, James." 

"Do what? Hurt him before he hurts us? Pearl, that's how war works." 

"War? We're not at war here!" She yelled, finally looking him in the eyes, then, upon seeing his pained expression, she softened. 

"Pearl, we're always at war. There's always someone waiting to take you down, and if you wanna survive, you've got to find the enemy first and strike first."

She shook her head, unable to comprehend his words. There had been no war in Kansas. No enemy. It seemed like another lifetime ago. 

"I learned that in boxing. Then, in the Great War, and again, trying to protect me and others in this big city." 

His eyes clouded with tears, and she couldn't help but lunge at him, wrapping her arms around his back and resting her cheek against his expansive chest. Despite his rough exterior and what he'd done, she knew in her heart James was a good man who only did what he thought was right. 

Returning her hug, he said, "Go find your husband, Pearl. He's been worried about you." 

He released her, then gently touched her arm as she started to walk away. "And, Pearl…"

She looked back over her shoulder. "Yes?" 

"Duke's not worth it." 

◇◇◇

"Where were you?" He uttered the words without a glance in her direction, keeping his back to her as he continued to stare out the window. 

"Out." Disappointed that his mood hadn't softened, she considered turning and walking back out the door. 

"Out where?" He snapped his head over his shoulder, seeking her eyes, daring her to lie to him.

She took a deep breath and considered her response. Do I lie? His glaring eyes shot her a silent warning not to try it. 

"With Duke. I ran into him, and we just went out for a bite to eat… to settle my nerves." 

"Did you sleep with him?" 

"No!" she covered her mouth with her hand after yelling the word, thinking she might somehow push the loud exclamation back inside. Would Sterling think she protested too much and doubt her?

In a second, he crossed the room and gripped her shoulders so tightly she flinched.

"You are mine," he grunted, the intensity of his tone made her tremble. "Mine.”

Chapter Eleven

August 1926

Duke had returned to Hollywood weeks ago, and Pearl had used the time since to reflect, taking a hard look at her life… and her husband. 

Her thoughts traveled back across the plains to Kansas. To her father, in particular. You weren't strong enough, Daddy, she thought with sorrow catching in her throat. She could see that now. Crops died. The farmhouse fell into disrepair. And there hadn't always been enough food on the table. 

But the biggest thing you did wrong, Daddy, was dying. You left Mama unable to live without you. 

Pearl had barely covered her travel and first month's rent with the sale of the broken-down farmhouse. As much as she hated what Sterling had done to that bartender, she hated the thought of ending up like her mama even more. 

Her eyes opened wide to her new reality. The mayor of New York City knew her name because of Sterling. She lived her dream on the stage, night after night, because of Sterling. She slept on the softest sheets, wore the finest silks, and never worried about where her next meal would come from because of Sterling. His toughness. His willingness to dirty his hands if it protected him and his. All these things about my husband will keep me from ending up like you, Mama. Doesn’t that make him “a good man?” And with those revelations, she found gratitude — and perhaps love.

◇◇◇

"Who's that?" James asked, straightening upon seeing his boss's relaxed facial expression suddenly tense. 

"Looks like some surprise guests from Chicago. I'll take care of them." 

Sterling walked across the room and extended his hand to the slightly older man, who wore a tailored, pin-striped suit with hints of gray hair peeking out from beneath his black fedora hat. "Hello, Johnny. Welcome to The Black Rabbit." 

Johnny Greco, a Chicago mobster with a fat cigar dangling from his clenched teeth, shook his hand. "Sterling! How long has it been?" 

"It's been a while," He replied before glancing at the black-haired beauty on his arm. "Hello, Stella." 

"Sterling," she replied coolly. 

Johnny closely watched their exchange, and Sterling vowed Johnny would get no signs of envy from him. Stella wore the same green dress she'd worn that evening in his office. A coincidence? He thought not. I don't know what your game is, doll, but I’m not playing. 

Johnny broke the silence. "So this is your club I've heard so much about?" He eyeballed the opulent crystal chandeliers, sleek furniture, and expensive decor. "A classy joint." Shifting his gaze to Pearl singing on stage, he added, "Got yourself some real talent too, I see." 

A smile slid across Sterling’s face. "Yes, her name is Pearl… Rossini." 

Johnny raises his eyebrows. "Your wife? I hadn't heard." He turned to his wife, Stella, with a sneer in his voice that only she detected. "Did you know that, babe?" 

"No. No, I didn't." Stella lied with the same mouth she'd kissed Sterling with not so long ago. Forcing a smile, she managed, "Congratulations, Sterling." 

"Thank you. Pearl’s one in a million." He couldn't help but boast, wanting to erase any thought she may have had that their last meeting was anything but meaningless sex. "Now, I can get you a table here if you want to enjoy some jazz music, but I think the club below will be more to your liking." 

"Lucky's keeping you well-stocked, I hope." 

"Indeed. And as luck would have it, a seat’s open at the poker table tonight if you're interested — late cancellation." 

"Well then, count me in." 

Sterling beckoned a lovely young hostess toward them. "Belle, please escort our guests to the speakeasy." He turned his full attention back to Johnny, careful not to look at Stella again. "Enjoy yourselves, and I'll be downstairs shortly if you need anything." 

The men shook hands again, and Sterling rejoined James in the corner of the room. 

"James, I'll be down in the speakeasy the rest of the night. I want to ensure that our Chicago friends enjoy everything my club has to offer. Let Pearl know, will you?" 

"Sure thing, boss." 

That night would prove to be a night of surprises when Duke walked into the club, settling into a booth in the back. Immediately, dazzling dames surrounded him. The movie star draped his arms around the pawing gals and had them dripping from his words. When he knew she wasn't looking, however, he stole a glance at Pearl. LuLu Brooks has nothing on you, Pearl. 

The sight of Duke rattled her, disrupting the sureness she’d established inside her head about her life with Sterling. And seeing Duke surrounded by other gals, Pearl’s heart burned with jealousy. How had he moved on from her so quickly? She struggled to keep her voice from cracking as she sang. Eyes attempting to settle on different faces in the audience repeatedly found themselves on the heartthrob. Duke, what are you doing to me?

And now, doll, let's see how much you want me. He’d decided to feign indifference in an attempt to stir her emotions and end the night differently than the last time he’d seen her. By the looks of things, his strategy was working. 

Her head spun seeing him again. There was just something about him. There’d always been something about him that deeply affected her. She’d never find peace until she further explored her connection with him. 

Duke perfectly times his exit with the end of her set. Again, he casually weaved his way between tables without a glance in her direction. As painful as it was to ignore her, he had convinced himself it was the only way to get her attention. 

Once off the stage and wishing to leave unnoticed, Pearl darted out the secret back door disguised as an antique bookcase. She forgot, however, about the pair of dark blue eyes that never left her. 

Always watching.

Protecting. 

And now following. 

◇◇◇

She knocked on his hotel room door, shifting her weight back and forth with nervousness. When he opened the door, he pretended to be surprised to see her. 

“Pearl. Hi, I didn’t expect you.”

She responded with the anger that had boiled up inside her, walking from The Black Rabbit. “Didn’t you? Did you think you could drop by the club and not speak to me… as if… goodness, like we’d meant nothing to one another?”

“Please, come in,” he gestured, deciding they should discuss matters behind closed doors instead of in front of any passersby.

She briskly strode past him, then turned sharply on her heels. “You hurt me!”

He threw his hands up, “Hold on now, gorgeous. You made your choice painfully clear the last time we saw each other. I was merely being a gentleman and stepping out of the picture.”

“I was confused.”

“And now?”

“Now, I want to know… no need to know… what this is between us. Pearl moved forward, leaving barely an inch between them. "I need you. Please." 

At first, he made no motion. "Are you sure, gorgeous?" Because once I start, there'll be no stopping.

He didn’t move, waiting for her answer, not sure he could take her walking out on him again. 

She looked into his eyes and wrapped her arms around his neck. "I'm sure."

He kissed her cheek and whispered in her ear, "I’ll make sure neither of us forgets this night." Then, he lowered his mouth to hers, kissing her sweetly and gently tugging on her lips with his.

Duke and Pearl became so lost in each other that neither noticed the squirrelly man outside the window. His camera clicked away at the scandalous behavior captured through the opening of heavy fabric drapes that didn't quite meet in the middle.

Chapter Twelve

August 25th, 1926

In the doorway, she stood clenching her fists so tight her fingernails dug into her palms. Cautiously, she stepped into Sterling’s home office, watching him sitting behind his desk, his fingers combing through papers. 

“Darling…”

Her term of endearment caught him by surprise and had him raising an eyebrow. She'd been distant the last week; her green eyes had lost their sparkle, and she'd claimed she felt ill.

He put down his pen and leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers in front of him. Trying to soften me up for something, my lovely wife? 

When he didn’t respond to her, she took a few tentative steps toward him and continued, “I have something to tell you.”

Here it comes. Spill it, doll.

His silent stare further unraveled her, but she willed her feet to take a few more steps. Just say it, she told herself. “I’m…” She bit her lower lip and prayed he'd be happy about her news. “I’m pregnant.”

Just like that, his indifferent exterior crumbled, and he released an emotional sigh. His eyes lowered from her eyes, clouded with tears, to her belly. 

As she held her ground, trembling, waiting, he continued to sit in his chair, digesting her news. She'd only found out a few days ago, but the news led her to a final decision between Sterling and Duke. As for Sterling, not long ago, he would have been ecstatic, but now his thoughts turned to Duke, and he wondered if he might be the father. 

“Who’s the father?” He didn’t care that it was a crass question. Damn it. I need to know!

She rushed to his side, kneeling beside his chair. “You are, darling!”

He cupped her face within his hands and narrowed his eyes. “Did you sleep with Duke?”

She didn’t hesitate. “No, Sterling, I promise.” That was a lie, but he wasn’t the father — she was sure of it — so she’d reasoned no good would come from telling him that she’d slept with Duke weeks ago. 

Seeing he wasn’t convinced, she continued, “Yes, he’s my friend. He’s been there for me as a friend. That's all.”

One last question burned in Sterling's gut. “Do you love him?”

“No." She took hold of his hands. "Maybe I thought I might, but I was wrong. Don’t you see this baby changes everything? I want us to start over and be a family. I need our baby to have a family!”

He looked into her desperate eyes and couldn’t hold back his emotions any longer. He pulled her into his lap and cupped her face again, brushing his thumbs across her lips while his palms rested against her throat. He swore he heard her heart thumping wildly beneath her breasts. 

"Say something," she begged. 

His eyes burned into hers, then his mouth captured hers in a passionate kiss. Her mouth opened, wanting to deepen their kiss, somehow thinking it would seal their new commitment to one another and their baby. Their kiss grew fierce, leaving them both breathless. When they finally pulled apart, they saw love in each other's eyes. 

She lay her head on his shoulder, thinking about all he'd done for her. He cradled her as if she were the most precious thing in his life. 

"I don't want to lose you. I couldn't…" His voice trailed into silence.

"You won't." 

But she had one last thing to do. She'd go to Duke's hotel and end things with him. I owe him an explanation.  

She sat upright on his lap. "Darling, as much as I'd love to stay on your lap all day…" she said, then leaned in to taste his lips again, "...I need to go to the club and rehearse. What time will you be there?"

“I have some business to finish here; then, I’ll be there later.”

He mashed his mouth against hers before lifting her off his lap. She smiled and walked out, feeling lighter than when she'd arrived. 

He sat back in his chair, replaying the last thirty minutes in his head. A baby! I'm going to be a father.  

His thoughts then turned sour as he remembered the private investigator who had called to say he had information to share. Does her relationship with Duke matter now? She’s chosen me. He rubbed his forehead, pondering his next course of action. Should I cancel the appointment? The jealousy still burning his gut gave him his answer. No, I need to know if she’s betrayed me. 

◇◇◇

James snapped upon seeing her leave Duke’s hotel again two weeks ago. The few threads of self-control snapped in two—every waking moment since had been spent plotting. 

Finally, his chance arrived, and Duke never saw him coming. 

Hidden in the shadows, his hunter had perfected quick, stealthy movements. 

One jerk into the darkened alley. 

One underarm choke-hold. 

One twist of the neck. 

One dead movie star littering a dirty alley in New York City. 

James’s rage left as soon as it had come. Satisfied he’d protected Sterling and Pearl, he calmly walked back to The Black Rabbit. If he was honest, it hadn’t been just for them. 

◇◇◇

After the private investigator had left, for a brief moment, Sterling thought maybe he got what he deserved — then it passed. No, Stella was of no consequence — a mere dalliance — Pearl's betrayal is different! He stormed back to his desk and snatched the photograph from the folder. It was proof that his wife had betrayed him with his friend Duke, and by the looks of the picture, thoroughly enjoyed it. He should've known. Despite his wife's protests, he'd seen her attraction to Duke. 

Little did Sterling know that James had ended Duke's life barely an hour ago. And so, Sterling continued to nurse his Gin Rickey when he heard a knock at his door. 

He strode across the room and opened the door to find Chicago mobster Johnny Greco smoking a cigar, with two goons as his bookends.  

"Johnny? What brings you here?" 

Johnny didn't wait to be invited in and brushed past him, saying, "We've got business to discuss, Sterling." His goons fell in step behind him. 

Sterling was curious but not overly concerned by his impromptu visit. They shared mutual friends, such as Lucky Luciano, and perhaps this was related to the alcohol supply chain. 

"Have a seat, Johnny. Can I get you a drink?" 

"I won't be here that long." 

His tone bore a tad of something that Sterling couldn't identify. Not what he'd call friendly, so Sterling took a seat opposite his uninvited guest.

"You know, Sterling, nothing gets past me. Nothing." Johnny sat comfortably in the club chair facing Sterling, unnerving him with his icy stare. "You disrespected me. Took my lovely wife to bed." He paused, letting his words sink in. "If I'm not in control, let people get away with disrespecting me, then I lose everything." 

The irony of his own words used against him was not lost on Sterling, and he knew at this point there was no use denying what he'd done. He chose his following words carefully. "Look… Johnny… Stella came to me. It… it just happened. You know how these dames can get in your head. I guess seeing her again stirred up old memories.” Sterling leaned back and attempted to sound sincere. “I messed up."

Seeing no reaction from the mob boss, he upped his apology. “I’ll tell you what I’m gonna do, Johnny. I have a large supply of fine liquor, which arrived today. Take it.” 

Laughter erupted from Mr. Greco's mouth. "You are telling me what my wife's worth." He looked back at the associates he had brought with him. "Did you hear that, fellas?" 

They chuckled, and Sterling realized all too late his mistake. While worrying about the eight ball he’d suddenly found himself behind, he'd forgotten he still clutched the photograph of Pearl and Duke until Johnny reached across and snatched it out of his hand. 

"Well, well, what have we here? It looks like while you were messing around with my wife, your wife was messing around on you." He dropped the picture on the ground and then took a slow drag of his cigar.

"Now, I'm gonna tell you what I'm gonna do, Sterling. You ready to hear it?" 

Sterling simply nodded, holding his breath. 

"I think it's only fair that since you took my wife, I take yours." He took several puffs of his cigar before continuing with a voice coated with malevolence. "I will keep her for as long as I want — while you are alive, that is. Oh, the things I'm gonna do to her…" His mouth spread into a satisfied grin at the horrified look marking Sterling's face. "Let's go, boys. We have a stop to make."

"Johnny, we can work this out," Sterling begged, leaning forward in his chair and wringing his hands in frustration.  

Johnny simply rose from his chair and quietly walked toward the door. He paused when his hand grabbed the handle, then spewed a few final words over his shoulder. "So, how much do you still love your wife?" 

A few minutes later, Johnny and his associates walked out of the apartment building, making sure to bid a "Good evening" to the doorman. 

“While you are alive.” He thought about those words — their implication. Sterling was no stranger to the workings of the mob, and with no mob of his own and Johnny backed by Capone, he knew only one way to save Pearl from grossly unpleasant experiences at the hands of Johnny Greco. 

He cast a final glance at the photograph on the floor and knew that despite her betrayal, he still loved her… and their unborn child. No one was more surprised than Sterling at how fast his anger toward Pearl dissipated. I do love you, dollface. 

Performing the most unselfish gesture of his life, Sterling Rossini leaped off his balcony.  

Epilogue

Duke's dead body was discovered hours after Sterling's death. The curious flocked to the newsstands to read about the deaths, which were plastered on the front page of the New York Herald Tribune. 

Upon searching Sterling's apartment, the cops found the scandalous photographs of Duke and Pearl. Although they had no solid proof placing Sterling at the scene of Duke's murder, they surmised that he killed Duke out of jealousy and then committed suicide. 

Duke's body was flown back to his family for burial in California. Sterling was to be buried in New York City. 

The day of Sterling's burial proved as dark as the day he had died. James stood beside Pearl, holding an umbrella over her head. Both their tears mixed with the rain puddling around their feet as Sterling's body was lowered into the ground and covered with dirt. They both stared at the graveside with bloodshot eyes — each suffering from their grief, guilt, and regret.

"Mrs. Rossini…" 

Pearl turned around to see Lucky Luciano standing behind her. 

He reached for her hand. "Please accept my sincere condolences on the death of your husband. He always held my respect." 

She accepted his hand and nodded in appreciation. "Thank you, Mr. Luciano." 

"If there's anything I can do for you, please ask. "

"There is one thing." 

"Name it."

"I’ll be leaving New York. Can you find me a new owner for The Black Rabbit?"

"I’ll do you one better. How about if I buy it from you?" 

"I think Sterling would like that, thank you." 

Lucky moved over to shake James's hand. "James, Sterling trusted you, and that's good enough for me. If you want it, there's a place for you in my organization." 

James looked over at Pearl. "No, thanks, I'll be going where Mrs. Rossini goes." 

Lucky nodded his head and admired his loyalty to Sterling even after death. “You’re a good man, James,” he said before bidding them goodbye. 

“A good man.” His words reminded Pearl of her Mama’s wishes for her. She looked up at James, the man who’d always had her back no matter what. You are a good man, James. She couldn’t let him give up his life for her, though. He meant too much to her." James, Sterling left you enough money in his will to start your own life… anywhere you want."

He looked down at her, his jaw set with absolute intention. "Pearl, I swore I'd protect him and his, which includes you and your baby. If you don't mind, I'll continue doing that. You're my family."  

Pearl rubbed her hand over her tummy. "Thank you, James. You are the only family we have left now. But, you should know I've done some bad things." Her downcast eyes revealed her shame. 

His finger lifted his chin, forcing eye contact. "I've done some bad things too."

She moved in front of him and took his hands in hers. "Well, what do you say we start fresh somewhere new?" 

A smile crossed his face for the first time since he could remember. "Sounds good to me." He pulled her into his strong arms and planted a sweet kiss on her head. "So, where to, Pearl?" 

She looked up at him, returning his smile. "California. I want to see the sunshine." Another thought had been nagging her, so she had to offer. And I will help you look for your Anna if you'd like. 

"That won't be necessary." His dark blue eyes penetrated her green ones. "I'm where I belong, Pearl." 

She rose on her toes and softly brushed her lips against his cheek. "Please… call me Dorothy." 

◇◇◇

Unseen watering eyes had watched the burial from a distance, then patiently waited for Pearl and James to leave. 

The driver stepped out and walked around to open the back door of the Rolls-Royce black Phantom, revealing Stella dressed head-to-toe in black. The raven-haired beauty stepped out of the car, clutching a single red rose. 

She walked to the graveside so slowly it was as if the ground caught each foot, hampering her forward movement, maybe protecting her from facing what lay ahead. 

Upon reaching the grave, she inhaled sharply and looked down at the dirt covering the man she loved. Tears wet her cheeks, hidden by the black veil. “I don't want to say goodbye, not to you…”

She'd be the only person who’d visited his grave that day who knew the real reason for his death. She'd begged Johnny not to hurt him. Swore it wouldn't happen again. He hadn't raised a hand on her, knowing a much crueler way to punish her. 

Clutching her broken heart with one hand, Stella released the red rose with the other. It landed on the rose Pearl had left him, and she whispered two words — "Forgive me."