SEDUCTIVE: A Contemporary Romance Anthology Read online

  Kurt was fooling around with the radio. “I can’t wait for the G-Men to squish the fish.”

  “I bet you think I don’t know what that means.” Bria laughed.

  “You ought to know by now. You spend every waking moment talking to E. But that’s my dude. I’m glad you two are together.”

  “Thanks, baby bro.”

  “Now if I could only find me a ride or die.” Kurt said while shaking his head.

  As she pulled into the driveway, Bria saw Ethan’s dad, Hampton, shoveling snow. “Go help Mr. Hayes before he hurts himself and messes up his weekend!”

  Kurt hopped out and shook Hampton’s hand. He took the shovel from him and picked up where he’d left off.

  “Thank you, son.” He turned to Bria. “There she is! Glad you ain’t like most black folks; running on C.P. time.”

  Bria hugged the man. “I hate waiting on people so I try not to subject them to it myself. Is Miss Celia ready?”

  “She is. All the bags are right by the front door. You and I can start loading them into the car.”

  Celia Aragon was at the hall mirror applying her lipstick. Ethan looked just like his mother. “Hi, Bria! Nice to see you, girl.”

  “Nice to see you too, Miss Celia. We’re about to put the bags in the trunk, do you need help with anything before we head out?”

  “I made some pasteles to take on the trip. That’s about the only Puerto Rican dish Ethan will eat on a regular. They’re on the counter.”

  Bria chuckled. “I don’t know if I have any pastele skills, but I cook a mean pernil.”

  “What you know about pernil?” Celia laughed. She really did like Bria and knew she was good for her son.

  “Oh, we ain’t got time for you two to swap recipes. Let’s get this show on the road.” Hampton told them as he grabbed their luggage.

  “You don’t be rushing me, old man.”

  “They’re not going to hold the plane for you, old lady.”

  Bria eased her way into the kitchen to grab the pasteles. They were a funny couple. She loved their Glen Ridge home. It was old fashioned and homey. Ethan’s house was comfy too, but more modern. A guy’s paradise with a basketball court and a Jacuzzi out back. She enjoyed cooking for him there. She snapped out of her daydream when she heard Hampton heading her way. “I’m coming now.”

  Ethan was confident about two things; playing football and sex. However, being at the big dance was a whole other thing. The thrill of the fans and the nervous energy of the teams was almost tangible throughout the city of Houston. The Super Bowl being there was a huge deal and they pulled out all the stops. Discovery Green was the venue for all kinds of events that weekend. The festivities actually started before the weekend and there were crowds were everywhere.

  “E. Is this the life or what, man?”

  Ethan slapped his teammate's back. “This is the dream, son. This is a living dream.”

  They couldn’t believe the excitement of being at the big game. For once Ethan didn’t mind all the press conferences. This is was the point of the whole season and he knew that it wasn’t just about one team beating the other, but it was also about ratings, endorsements and money. He didn’t really care about any of that stuff, but he knew it was important to the league.

  He was just grateful that his parents were able to see his success. He wasn’t particularly close to his siblings, but he was beginning to feel like a big brother to Kurt. He had Bria to thank for that. She was very willing to share him. She was a phenomenal woman and he didn’t take her being in his life for granted.

  He had to take the podium in a couple of minutes. Ethan knew he was about to be bombarded with stupid questions, but he was prepared to grin and bear it.

  “Ethan, over here. Paul Peters from the The Herald. How does it feel making it to the Super Bowl in your rookie season?”

  “It’s an incredible blessing. I’ve had to learn a lot in a short time and I’m just glad it all paid off.”

  “Will you stay with the Giants? There are a lot teams looking to court you.”

  “I grew up wanting to play for the Giants. I’m a faithful guy. I don’t cheat with the first pretty face to come along.” The crowd laughed at his joke.

  Bria winked at him from the back of the press room. Her smile gave him courage. There were a few more questions about the game plan for the night which of course he politely refused to answer. Overall, the sports writers and reporters treated him well. They seemed to like him. Honestly it was a relief.

  Ethan thanked them for their time and stepped off the stage. He shook a few hands and accepted congratulations for many people as he made his way to the back of the room.

  He didn’t want to draw any attention to them, but he had to hold Bria. “I’m so glad to see you. You have no idea.”

  “You did a wonderful job up there. I’m glad I didn’t miss it.”

  “There will be plenty more media moments. It’s been non-stop since we got here. Where’s the rest of the crew?”

  “Your parents are watching from the bar at the hotel. They were a little tired, but didn’t want to miss seeing you on television. They figured if they watched from the room they might fall asleep!”

  “Gotta love ‘em. Where’s Kurt? Talking to a cheerleader?”

  Bria laughed. “He wishes. He’s buying a bunch of souvenirs to get it out the way.” She paused. “The room at Hotel ZaZa is absolutely gorgeous.”

  “I’m glad you like it.”

  “Very much so.” Bria looked like she wanted to say something, but was struggling.

  Ethan knew what was on her mind. “This day is very special. You can relax and enjoy it. No pressure for anything else, babe.”

  “You can read minds now?” Bria grinned.

  “I’m very observant and a quick study.” Ethan grabbed her hand.

  “We’ve both been so busy, but it’s never far from my mind.” She stroked the palm of his hand.

  “You’re about to make me miss the rest of these media sessions, girl!”

  “I’m not going anywhere. Don’t miss anything.” Bria stood on her toes and gently kissed his lips.

  Ethan felt like he could run ten touchdowns. “I hate to run off, but I’ve got to get going.”

  “Go do your thing. Love you.”

  “Love you, too.”

  Bria waited for Ethan to disappear from sight before she walked over to a nearby concession stand. “Hello, Monelle.”

  “Hello, Bria.”

  “What are you doing here?”

  “It’s a free country. I can come to Super Bowl weekend if I like.” Monelle did not look phased at all.

  “True.” Bria agreed. “But do you think it’s a good idea to show up and show out like you’ve been doing lately?”

  “I’m not doing anything but talking to you. I haven’t even seen Ethan yet.”

  “I’m sure you have; you just haven’t let him know it. And I’d appreciate it if you didn’t. You were his friend. You know how important this game is for him. Don’t ruin it for Ethan.”

  Monelle stared at Bria for a moment. “I can tell you love him. But you know I love him too and I loved him first.”

  “What good is that if it’s not reciprocated? That’s the bottom line. If the feelings aren’t mutual then as a grown woman you have to let them go. You’ve even killed all possibilities to continue a friendship with him. Why fly all the way out to Texas knowing all that?”

  “It’s called following your heart.”

  “No; it’s called stalking and that’s a crime.” Bria corrected her.

  Monelle rolled her eyes. “You don’t even know what’s at stake or how little your relationship with him means to me right now. I’m staying at…”

  “Don’t even tell me. I don’t want to know where you’re staying. Just stay clear and I won’t have to get the police involved. This is the Super Bowl. Security is tight and the authorities are on high alert. It’ll put a damper on the festivities for us, but it’l
l get you locked up and stuck in Texas if we have to call them in.”

  She wanted to argue, but Monelle kept her mouth shut. She didn’t need that kind of attention. She’d just have to figure out another way to get to see Ethan. “You are very fortunate. But you never when your luck will change. Enjoy your weekend.”

  Bria watched Monelle disappear into the crowd. She wanted to call the hotel, but there was no restraining in place and she really didn’t want to put their business out in the street without it being totally necessary. Hotel staff can be easily bought so she just hoped Monelle didn’t find out they were staying at Hotel ZaZa. She was lost in thought when Kurt came up and tapped her shoulder.

  “You okay?”

  “Yeah. Just ran into someone I didn’t want to see, but it’s all good.” Bria knew she had to tell Ethan, but she wanted to wait until the game was over. He didn’t deserve to be distracted by this woman’s shenanigans. “Let’s go get something to eat.”

  “Wooo! You better run, boy!”

  Ethan flew into the end zone like a man on fire. His very first Super Bowl touchdown; he was beyond ecstatic. The tone was set and he was the catalyst.

  The Dolphins were by no means making it an easy game, but the Giants refused to be denied. Ethan was very vocal and encouraging in the huddles. He wasn’t a rookie; he was pushing his team and they were pushing him. They all knew victory was assured if they continued to work as one. He was nervous, but he barely paid it any attention.

  Rayell Thaxton scored the next touchdown and it was a severe blow to their opposition. They went into halftime up two touchdowns to their one.

  The team was majorly hyped in the locker room. Nobody cared who was performing during the halftime show. They remained focused and determined. The only thing Ethan’s mind swayed to was Bria. She was his rock.

  “You’re looking good out there, Rook. Keep it up, baby!”

  Ethan allowed himself to be proud for a moment. He worked hard and he knew this was the pay off.

  They went over plays and viewed footage quickly. They were anxious to get back on the field. Ben McAdoo, their head coach, was anxious since this was his first season in the position. He had big shoes to fill coming in behind the legendary Tom Coughlin. But he had confidence in his squad and told them so.

  The second half got off to an auspicious beginning. For Miami. They scored a touchdown off an interception. The Giants couldn’t worry about that. They were tied. It was like starting the game over. They didn’t let their momentum falter. They strived to comeback and reclaimed the lead with a touchdown of their own. Ethan intercepted the ball late in the third quarter and nearly made it into the end zone. His boy, Izekial Boyd, slipped in and scored. The New York fans went crazy in Houston.

  In the middle of the fourth quarter, they scored a field goal; making their lead 24 to 14. Neither team scored in the final minutes of the game, so the New York Football Giants were the winners of Super Bowl LI.

  Ben McAdoo was ceremoniously drenched in Gatorade while the team hooped and hollered around him. The media immediately ran onto the sidelines to grab their interviews. With a touchdown and an interception as part of Ethan’s stats, several sportscasters were dying to get a word with him. Microphones were coming at him from all directions. He tried to focus on his responses because he didn’t want to say something stupid after such a huge success. They never let you live down the foolish things that slip out when your nervous and pumped up.

  The staff handed out their championship gear and soon they all gathered around to accept the Vince Lombardi Trophy. Owners, coaches, team members…they all made speeches. But Ethan was at a loss for words when HE was named the game’s MVP. The cheers were almost deafening. He could hardly hear himself think.

  “I am so humbled by this honor. I would have never thought this was within my reach during my first appearance in a Super Bowl. I have my coaches and my boys to thank for this because they prepared me and believed in me. I thank my parents, my friends and my wonderful girlfriend, Bria and her brother, Kurt. Y’all held me up. God bless you all!”

  CHAPTER THIRTEEN

  The season being over didn’t mean it was chill time for Ethan. Winning MVP suddenly made him an even hotter commodity. He naively thought he’d be able to keep a low profile, but just the few days following the Super Bowl proved him totally wrong.

  “Double G, this is more work than being an athlete.” Ethan shuffled through proposals and contracts. “I can’t possibly do all this.”

  “No one is expecting you to, E. As your agent I’m going to primarily advise you to take the most lucrative deals, but as your friend I know you’re going to affiliate yourself with the companies you feel comfortable with. It’s all good, baby.”

  “As long as you get your cut?” Ethan was only half joking, but Garrett brushed it off.

  They looked towards the front door as they heard the key. Ethan knew it was Bria coming back with food, but he didn’t recognize the black and white men behind her. Both he and Garrett moved quickly to her.

  “Ethan, these are detectives Morrow and Conley from Houston. They wanted to discuss something with you.” She had a confused look on her face so Ethan assumed they hadn’t shared with Bria what that something was.

  “Come on in. This is my agent, Garrett Grant. And I assume you know my girl, Bria Coppock. What’s going on, detectives?” Ethan lead them into the family room and gestured towards the leather couch.

  “Do you know Monelle Rollins, Mr. Aragon?” Jake Morrow, the black guy, asked as he took a seat. Kent Conley remained standing.

  “I know a Monelle, but her last name isn’t Rollins. Please, what’s going on?”

  Detective Conley pulled out a picture. “Is this your friend?”

  Ethan and Bria moved in closer. “Yes, that’s Monelle. Has something happened to her?”

  “According to her husband…”

  “Wait, husband? Monelle isn’t married. I grew up with her in Brooklyn. I know her people. I’d know if she was married.”

  “Perhaps you don’t know her as well as you think,” Morrow suggested.

  “And that may be true. Lately, she’s been stalking me. I hate to use such a strong word as stalking, but she’s posted lies on social media and shows up at some of my events unannounced and uninvited. She’s been a casual girlfriend over the years; no true commitment. I’m sharing this to show there’s no way she could be married if she’s doing all that.”

  “Rollins claims they were separated when she began to do all those things. Kind of clinging to her past since they were going through problems. He talked to her while she was in Houston and they discussed working things out, but she never returned to New York. He knows she went out there to see you,” Conley explained totally void of emotion.

  “And I never did see her.”

  Bria interjected. “I ran into her during the pre-game festivities and told her that I’d call the authorities if she started any trouble. She wasn’t belligerent or hostile or anything and I believed she saw the reasoning in what I was saying. I didn’t even tell Ethan that I saw her until after the celebration dinner.”

  “Thank you, Miss Coppock for that information. It helps.” Morrow smiled, but it didn’t feel in the least bit warm.

  “Why did you come all the way out here to Jersey? You could have just called me to ask me questions.” Ethans brows were furrowed.

  “She’s been missing several days now with no communication with her family. Unfortunately we have to deduce there may have been foul play. With you being such a public figure it was better to question you in person.”

  Garrett spoke up. “Has Mr. Rollins inferred that Ethan is responsible for her disappearance?”

  “Even if I had seen her, it was Super Bowl Weekend. There wouldn’t have been time to have a lengthy conversation with her. I didn’t see my parents and Bria until we went out to dinner with the team and our staff.”

  “We’re just doing our due diligence while working this
case. You can understand why her husband would think you’re involved in some way,” Morrow informed him.

  Chills ran up Ethan’s spine. “Monelle was acting up and I asked her to keep her distance. She may have been off the rails, but she’s been around since I was a little kid. I wouldn’t want anything bad to happen to her and I surely wouldn’t want to be the cause of it directly or indirectly.”

  “Have you been to her home recently?” Conley inquired.

  “Her parent’s apartment? No. I don’t get back to the old neighborhoods much these days.”

  Conley began to jot something down. “She doesn’t live with her parents. She lives with Mr. Rollins.”

  “Which I didn’t know. Was she with her parents while they were separated? It seems to me somebody would have told me she was hitched. There’s truly something wrong with that.”

  Morrow stood up. “We’ll be in New York interviewing her relatives and friends. Here’s my card; if you can think of anything else call me. Don’t worry if it seems inconsequential. We’ll take a look at everything.”

  Ethan and Bria walked the detectives out. “I’m assuming I may be hearing from Rollins since he thinks some sort of way about me.”

  “We advised him there was no evidence of anything right now and that he should leave the investigating to us. However, if he does contact you, let me know.”

  “I will. I hope there are some answers soon.” Ethan extended his hand. Morrow shook it, but Conley just nodded as he headed out the door.

  “Congratulations on your success,” Morrow said to Ethan and then shook hands with Bria and Garrett.

  Ethan waited until they were off his property before returning inside. “What the hell is Monelle trying to pull now? She ain’t got no damned husband.”

  “This is terrible. Husband or not she’s missing. I never saw her again, but we’d have no way of knowing if she left Texas or not. I didn’t want to know where she was staying. I can’t believe this.” Bria tried to sit still, but got up and started pacing.