SEDUCTIVE: A Contemporary Romance Anthology Read online

  “I’m not even sure this legitimate. She’s been bugging for a minute. I hope she’s not in any danger, but who knows who this Rollins cat is and what his angle is,” Ethan added.

  “The mere insinuation that you’re involved in any way can be very damaging. Legally and career wise,” Garrett pointed out.

  “That’s how I know something is off. Monelle would love to get back at me for not ‘choosing’ her.”

  “Should we be contacting a lawyer?” Bria asked Garrett.

  “So far they’re just fact finding. It makes sense that they’d interview Ethan. They don’t have anything to implicate either of you so getting a criminal lawyer may look suspicious.”

  Ethan wasn’t about to trust his agent’s opinion. Garrett was cool, but not a legal professional. He was going to consult an attorney as soon as possible.

  “Well let’s eat this food before it gets even colder.” Bria rubbed Ethan’s shoulders. She could feel the tension.

  “They moved into the dining room. Ethan just shuffled his food from one end of the plate to the other. He knew innocence didn’t always matter to the system.

  Bria was reading various articles online regarding Monelle’s disappearance. None of them directly reported Ethan was a suspect (because he wasn’t), but they played up her well documented social media antics. She didn’t hear Kasim enter her office.

  “Good Morning, boss lady.”

  “Hey, Kasim.”

  “How are you and your man holding up? It’s hot under the spotlight. I know.”

  “We’re concerned Monelle may very well be dead. No leads. No contact. These articles sensationalize everything she did. I don’t know, but it just makes their connection look bad.”

  “Wasn’t it?”

  “He was tired of her popping up and posting stuff that wasn’t true, but he knew it was a jealousy kind of thing. Eventually it would have to blow over. She isn’t some random woman; they were childhood friends.”

  “Sometimes it’s the people closest to us that cause us the most grief.” Kasim reflected.

  “That is most definitely true. It’s nerve wracking waiting for the other shoe to drop. You can just feel this is going to be all the way bad.” Bria closed her lap top.

  “You want to get out of here and get some lunch? My treat.”

  “That would be cool. Let me grab my coat.”

  After exiting the studio, Kasim stopped to look at his phone. From the corner of his eye, he saw a tall African American male approaching. He stuffed his phone in his pocket. “Can we help you, my man?”

  Bria had seen him coming too. She didn’t recognize him, but they often had fans trying to access the studio. He did not look like a fan.

  “I’d like a word with Miss Bria Coppock. My name is Jax Rollins.”

  “You are Monelle’s husband. Have you heard from her? Do the police have any leads?”

  “No, they haven’t solved a damn thing, but I already know who’s behind this. It’s just a matter of time before it’s proven.”

  “Bruh, I’m pretty sure you’re not supposed to be talking to…”

  “The suspect’s girlfriend? Let me ask you something ‘bruh’. Would you just let it slide when you know there’s more than meets the eye to some dude your wife used to deal with it? The same dude she went to talk to, but has never been heard from since?” Jax turned back to Bria. “It’s my understanding that you were supposedly the last person to see her.”

  “I may not have been. I didn’t ask her which hotel she was at or what she intended to do after we parted. And for the record, you know Ethan is not a suspect. I’d appreciate it if you would not spread false statements like that.” Bria stood her ground. This man was unnerving, but she wasn’t about to let him know that’s how she felt.

  “Did you know they were having a relationship?”

  “We all know that she tried and failed to be in a relationship with Ethan, but she never once mentioned you.” Bria was fuming and Kasim thought he had better put an end to this chat.

  “Rollins, there’s nothing more anyone can tell you. I’m sure the cops have given you details of their statements. This is just a scare tactic and I’m sure a violation of some kind.” He took out his phone and snapped a picture. “I’m going to share this with security. Don’t come around here again.”

  “Two men supporting your lies.” Rollins shook his head. “Defend him. That’s what you’re supposed to do. Until the day YOU cross him and you disappear, too.” He stepped around them and kept walking down the street.

  Bria stared at him until he was out of sight. “Was he for real?”

  “Very for real.” Kasim didn’t take his eyes off of him either.

  “I can sympathize, but he shouldn’t be questioning anyone. His presence feels like a threat,” Bria said.

  “Oh, it’s a down low threat all right. I know his kind. Utmost shady.” He guided her back into the studio. We’ll order in. You should go and tell Ethan about this character.”

  Bria called Ethan and told him what happened. He was in the city with Payton and told her they’d be right over. She let him know she was going to call the detectives.

  While Bria called Houston PD, Kasim went back downstairs to wait for Ethan and his cousin. They almost didn’t see him as they stormed through the lobby. “Hold up, man.”

  “What up, Kasim? Ethan looked extremely annoyed.

  “I know we haven’t exactly been bosom buddies, but hopefully you know I don’t wish you any ill will. This Jax Rollins is not someone you want to sleep on. If you need extra back up, just say the word. I’ve got associates willing to lend a hand. Trust.”

  “He’s trying to start something. He doesn’t want me to finish it.”

  “I feel you, but keep that kind of talk to yourself. Seriously. I’ve had people attempt to set me up before. That’s all he’s trying to do. Bait you into a situation and a response that’ll make the cops think you are indeed guilty of whatever happened to his wife. Guy was expensively dressed. He’s no two bit hood. Maybe he started out as one, but he’s obviously found success in whatever it is he does.”

  “Good looking out. I’m not trying to get anyone mixed up in Monelle’s mess, but I do appreciate you.” They slapped hands and went upstairs.

  “Hey, Payton.” Bria walked over and kissed Ethan. “Detective Morrow is going to talk to Jax Rollins. Unfortunately, after I relayed what he said it didn’t sound like a threat, but it certainly was obvious in his delivery.”

  “Yeah, he knew exactly just how far to go. He just don’t smell right,” Kasim added.

  “The police aren’t doing enough. How can the girl just vanish without a trace?” Payton asked.

  “Some of the companies that had wanted to offer me endorsements seem to be placing stuff on hold while they wait to see how this goes. No matter what they believe or don’t believe their bottom line is their main concern. Negative attention on me is not good for them.” Ethan explained. “I’ve had a couple of folks from around the way contact me. They know I’m not responsible for anything that’s going on. They had no idea she was married either. It’s legit though. There are public records showing they’ve been married for over year.”

  “Newlyweds? Then why in the world wasn’t he at her party in Atlantic City?” Payton wondered. “She specifically asked you to escort her. Married for over a year, but separated for how long?”

  “Cuz, you’re asking the wrong one. This just totally boggles my mind.”

  Jax Rollins was sitting out on his balcony. It was unseasonably warm for February. The fresh air helped him think better. He had to work his plan just right. Or else Monelle’s sacrifice would have been for nothing.

  His beloved wife stayed on his mind. He loved her because she would do anything for him. It was hard coming by a woman like that. He was glad Ethan Aragon had never really wanted her. But he is a good guy so he entertained her for a minute. Patience wears thin and that’s what Rollins was counting on.


  “Jax, I can’t keep this up for much longer. At some point Ethan is going to issue a restraining order against me. Sweetheart, we’ve got to make that move.”

  “Don’t worry, Mona. I’m going to play my part just as soon as you’re tucked away. While the police are looking for you, I’m going to make his life miserable. Either he’s going to pay me to go away or he’s going to pay me when I name him in a civil suit for wrongful death.”

  Monelle shivered. “I hate those words. I know that you’ll be coming out to be with me as much as possible until we can permanently leave the country, but being cut off from everyone is going to be like a death.” She dropped her head and sat on the edge of the bed.

  “Your parents will get a share of the money. They’ll be able to stop working and I know you want them to be able to retire while they’re still in good health. Who else really matters? My people aren’t worth my time or effort and all you really care about is your mother and father. We can go away and plan our dream life. All on your boy’s dime. With no body and no real evidence he won’t see prison, but jeopardizing his precious career will make him willing to pay the price.”

  Monelle looked doubtful. “Ethan isn’t into money like that, but I know he cares a lot about being a pro football player. I’m just anxious to get this over with. And how did you come up with the Northern Mariana Islands again?”

  “They’re a U.S. territory so we won’t need a passport. Less paperwork means less to trace back to us. It’s a lot like Hawaii. You’ll love it there, Mona.”

  “It’ll do for now. But we need to find somewhere else to permanently settle down.”

  “I’m open, but first things first.” Jax sat down on the bed next to her. He had rented a hotel room in Houston under a fake name. “You came straight here after running into Bria Coppock, right?”

  “Yes. It’s easy to get lost in the crowds out there. I didn’t stop at any of the stands or kiosks. I just high tailed it back here.”

  He nodded his head. “Perfect. We have a couple of hours before we have to be at the airport. You have your fake I.D. and the disguise I bought for you?”

  “Yeah, they’re in my bag. I really like that jet black long haired wig. Maybe I can put it on and we could have a little fun. We’re going have to split up at the airport so this might be our last chance for a while.” Monelle slid closer to her husband and began to nibble on his ear.

  He moaned. “You are something else. I’m trying to get my mind right and here you are wanting to play with my other head.”

  “That would be correct, Mr. Rollins.” Monelle slid her hand down between his legs.

  He turned and kissed her passionately. “Go get the wig.” Rollins began to undress and was completely naked when she came back with the wig. “Come.”

  She bounced onto the bed like a giddy child. Monelle was about to unbutton her blouse when Jax stopped her. “What’s wrong?”

  “Allow me.” Jax stroked the long black hair she was wearing. Mona, as he loved to call her, was indeed a gorgeous woman. He slid the pillow out from beneath her head and quickly covered her face with it.

  He used all his weight to subdue her. She could barely flail beneath him she was so stunned. And then terrified. And then gone.

  Jax looked at her for a few minutes. It wasn’t remorse that he was feeling because this had been his plan from the beginning. They’re entire relationship had been a game to him. A means to an end. He wasn’t about to be tied down with a woman who could turn on him one day. And he wasn’t about to share any money.

  Monelle was right about how easy it was getting lost in the crowds during the Super Bowl. So many fools laughing and joking and getting drunk, no one gave him a second glance as he practically carried her limp body out the side lobby exit.

  A couple of guys passed them with all their ridiculous fan gear on; whooping and shouting for no reason. They barely paused when they saw Jax and Monelle. He made a gesture like he was knocking back a drink and they automatically thought he meant she was wasted. They gave a round of applause before moving along.

  Idiots.

  He had scoped out a few places while in Texas and found the perfect spot to hide his dead bride. They may find her one day he thought. No. They wouldn’t.

  Jax’s trip down memory lane was interrupted by his doorbell. He strode across the living room of his luxury Manhattan apartment and looked through the peep hole. He couldn’t believe it as he opened the door. “Ethan Aragon.”

  “Don’t you ever in your life come near Bria again. I don’t care what game you’re running. I don’t care what accusations you throw out there about what happened to your ‘wife’, but if you threaten mine you won’t live to regret it.”

  “Monelle said you were a nice guy. I think she may have underestimated you. You can be dangerous when you want to be, can’t you? You used whatever you had to find me. Which probably cost you a pretty penny. What did you really hope to accomplish by coming here, Aragon? You have to know I’m not backing down.”

  “You know what happened to Monelle. I was heated with her, but now that I can look into the devil’s eyes, I’m guessing you fed her attention and a dream. Unfortunately, it wouldn’t have taken much to hook her. The police aren’t even looking in the right place. You are as guilty as sin.”

  Jax shook his head. He couldn’t believe this. The authorities couldn’t pin anything on Aragon. And he was sure as the spouse he had been fully investigated, as well. The cops were just talking and spinning their wheels. Soon they’ll stop searching altogether. Monelle Rollins was just another unfortunate statistic to them. On to the next.

  “So what do you want to do, my man? Kick my ass?” He laughed.

  “That sounds pretty good right now.”

  “Bring what you got.” Jax Rollins began to bounce like an MMA fighter.

  Ethan wasn’t concerned about his skill level. He was so consumed with anger that he was ready to beat this man within an inch of his life. And then possibly take the inch back.

  There were no more words. They just began to scrap. Ethan was able to tackle him and knock him off his feet, but with an agility he didn’t anticipate, Rollins sprung back up. They each dealt each other severe blows, but neither showed signs of tiring. Ethan had no doubt this man was out to destroy him. It started with some scheme with Monelle, but he knew Rollins was fighting for his freedom and maybe even his life right now and he wasn’t going to lose either easily.

  Just thinking about Bria gave him the fuel to battle. He’d come a long way and she was definitely the factor that helped make the journey a successful one. They were both on their feet, but stumbled as they tripped over the threshold of the balcony door. The two were so consumed with hate and anger they didn’t fully realize how close they were to the edge of the balcony.

  Jax looked up. “I killed Monelle. It’s going to be my pleasure to kill you next!”

  Ethan had never seen such rage in a man’s face. He had to muster all his strength to hold him back. The fighting had effectively stopped. It was survival mode time. He could feel his back was against the edge of the tenth floor balcony. Something was happening. He could see Jax’s face, but it was morphing into the countenance of a familiar adversary. He yelled and clawed. He was reliving his recurring nightmare. He saw the ruins of the battlefield from previous wars with his enemy. As before, Bria came with her sword to assist him. Together they sliced and stabbed, but it took all they had to fight off the reinforcements which had be summoned. Ethan was exhausted, but he was coming back…”Bria!”

  FOREVER MINE

  CHAPTER FOURTEEN

  Bria was coming back from the nurse’s station when she heard her name being shouted. She ran the rest of the way to Ethan’s room. He was awake!

  “Ethan, I’m here babe!” She reached for the call button as she tried to prevent him from ripping out his IV’s. “Calm down. It’s all right sweetheart.”

  The nurses ran in and assisted him. It took a moment, but he was f
inally able to open his eyes and focus. “What’s going on? Why am I here?”

  One nurse began checking his vitals as Bria sat on the side of his bed. “Babe, you and Dane were trying to apprehend two young men connected to that gang murder case when you were shot and went into a coma.”

  “Shot?” And as soon as that registered, he began to feel the pain. “Ugh. Yeah, shot.”

  “I’ll be right back with your doctor,” the nurse said and patted his hand. “Welcome back, Ethan.”

  “B, how long have I been here?”

  “It’s been a couple weeks. The worst weeks of my life. The boys have been here constantly and Rafer has been having behaviors. They are going to be so happy to have their dad back.”

  “Man, I have so much to tell you.” Before he could continue a doctor he didn’t recognize came in and started asking him a bunch of questions while checking him out.

  Bria moved to the side and let Dr. Patel work. She couldn’t stop the tears of relief from flowing. Nurse Kate came over and gave her a side hug.

  “We’ll monitor your progress over the next couple of days and see if we can get you up and walking a bit. You’ve slept long enough, my friend. Time for the real work to begin.”

  Ethan shook the doctor’s hand. “Thank you. I’m still trying to wrap my mind around all this, but I’m grateful for your care.” His voice was hoarse and his throat sounded dry.

  Bria poured a cup of water and waved to the doctor who had to move on to the next patient. “Here, try to drink some of this.”

  Ethan took a couple of sips, but then gulped down the rest. He choked a little, but quickly recovered. “While I was out, I had this…I can’t even call it a dream. It was like a live experience of an alternate life. I wasn’t a cop. I was a rookie with the Giants. You weren’t an intake specialist, but a writer who had created a television show. It was crazy. We met and fell in love, but this woman from my old neighborhood who I had dated off and on was trying to get with me. She became a stalker pretty much. But it didn’t hinder our relationship. If anything, it helped make it stronger because once she disappeared you really stepped up to help me. The police were investigating me since she was last seen by you during Super Bowl Weekend. We won by the way. But it turns out she was married all along to this really evil dude named Jax Rollins. Bria, he was evil personified. He admitted he killed Monelle and I was fighting him for my own life when I woke up.”