SEDUCTIVE: A Contemporary Romance Anthology Read online

  “Wow! I’m not even sure what to say; that’s incredible. Tell me more so I can write it down before you forget. You might want to revisit it. Or it can be my next book.” Bria stretched out beside him. “I’m just glad you’re HERE.”

  “I’m not likely to forget any of that, but I will definitely have you write out some sort of manuscript. Even though it was in my head, it’s your experience too. I told you we were always meant to be together despite time or space.”

  “And I believed it.” Bria reached over and kissed her husband.

  “My breath must be kicking,” Ethan laughed, but started to cough. “Guess my throat isn’t ready for jokes!”

  “There’s plenty time to practice your stand-up act. Right now we need to call a whole bunch of people.”

  After calling her sister Lauryl and asking her to bring the kids, Bria then phoned Ethan’s parents and his sister and brothers. When she called Dane, he dropped everything and rushed over like she knew he would.

  “Bro, what the heck is the matter with you scaring us like that?” Dane said as he walked into Ethan’s room. He paused by the bed, but then went ahead and hugged the man who was more like his own brother.

  “My bad, D. Trust me I didn’t do it on purpose. What happened that day?”

  “Okay, that’s my cue. I don’t want to relive those details again so I’m headed out to pick up some things for you. Behave you two.” Bria kissed Ethan’s forehead and hugged Dane before leaving.

  After buying toiletries and other things to occupy Ethan while he was in the hospital, Bria decided to stop by Lenox Mall and get lunch from the California Pizza Kitchen. She hadn’t ventured out much while her husband was comatose. A busy mall was almost a culture shock after being around hospital staff for days.

  She ordered BBQ Chicken Pizza, Ethan’s favorite, and a peach iced tea and sat down at a table. She looked up as she heard her name being called.

  “Bria? Hello, there.I don’t mean to bother you, but how’s Ethan doing?”

  It was Jerrae. Bria so didn’t want to be bothered by this woman, but she didn’t have a reason to be rude either. “He’s awake now. We are beyond grateful.”

  Jerrae stood silent for a moment. “I heard on the news that he was in coma. I couldn’t believe it.”

  “I couldn’t believe it either. You just never know what’s going to happen from day to day. No one’s promised tomorrow.”

  “No we are not. I can’t wait to tell my kids. They still talk about Ethan. I see why you fought so hard for the marriage. He’s a good one.”

  Bria sighed. “Our bond never broke during those times he was with you. We’re each other’s best friend. There were times when he had no one else to confide in when it came to problems with you. It was awkward at first, but when a man is linked to you spiritually even the things that happen during separation don’t ruin the foundation of love.”

  “He would talk to you about us?” Jerrae was stunned.

  “Yeah. It’s not that he wanted to be separated from me, but the issues weren’t being fixed. He often told me that he wished he hadn’t gotten into another relationship so soon after we broke up though.”

  Jerrae wasn’t sure what to make of that so she let it slide. “I’m meeting my guy here. I hope he hurries up because that pizza smells delicious.”

  Before Bria could respond, a tall black man waltzed up to the table and planted a kiss on the top of Jerrae’s head. “And this must be him. Hello.”

  “Yes it is. Bae, we were just talking about you. This is Ethan’s wife, Bria. She was just sharing good news about his recovery. Bria, this is Jaxson Rollins. We just call him Jax.”

  Bria was speechless for several seconds. “Jax. Nice meeting you.”

  “Likewise. Glad to hear your husband’s doing better.”

  Bria wanted to ask him questions, but she couldn’t even imagine what she could say that would make sense. Right now none of it was making any sense. “Thank you. As a matter of fact I need to get a to-go box and head back to the hospital. Y’all enjoy the rest of your day.”

  “You, too.” Jerrae linked her arm with Jax’s and they moved on.

  Dane and Ethan were still catching up when she entered the room. She set down the bags and passed her husband the remainder of her pizza. “What did you say the bad guy’s name was in your dream?”

  “Jax. Jax Rollins.”

  “Well I just met him.”

  “Say, what?”

  “I just met Jax Rollins at Lenox when I stopped to get the pizza. I ran into Jerrae of all people and after we chatted for a few minutes her man came over. She introduced him as Jax Rollins.”

  “Wooow. Are you sure?”

  “Very.”

  “I’m trying to think if she ever mentioned his name to me. Zach didn’t when we had talked about her being in a new relationship. See this is that old creepy stuff that be going on. Like my nightmare.”

  “It’s some spiritual realm stuff mos def because this can’t be a coincidence,” Bria agreed.

  “Somebody want to clue me in, please?”

  Ethan quickly ran through the tale of Jax Rollins for Dane. “I don’t know if it was my subconscious detective mind working some clue I didn’t realize I had or what. But I need for you to run a check on this Jax person. He actually forced me out of my coma so to speak. Maybe I need to meet him. Again.”

  “His full name is Jaxson she said. Tall, dark and handsome type.”

  “I’m on it.” Dane got up and gave Ethan the handshake-bro hug. “I’m supposed to be taking Aracely out so I’ll hit you up later.”

  “I can’t wait to see your new lady love. Maybe we’ll have her over the house once I’m released from this joint.” Ethan told his partner against crime.

  “That would be mad cool. Later, fam.”

  Dane was early, but he was sure Aracely wouldn’t mind. They were getting along so well. He hesitated to call it love, but he knew he was falling. And was very happy about it. He rang and waited for her to come to the door.

  “Querido, come on in. I’m not even dressed yet.” Aracely kissed Dane on the lips and then wiped away her lip gloss. “How’s everything?”

  “I just came from the hospital. Ethan is awake. I’m so relieved. It was touch and go for a minute.”

  “Oh my God. That’s wonderful news. Let me hurry and put some clothes on so we can go out and celebrate.”

  “No need to hurry. And I wanna say no need to go put any clothes on either,” Dane’s smile reflected every single ounce of the lust he was feeling.

  Aracely gave a twirl as she showed off her La Perla undies. “I know you’re hungry. Would you care for something to eat before we catch the show?”

  “What you got cooking?”

  “You’re looking at it.” Aracely kissed him again. Her tongue outlining the rim of his mouth.

  “You are definitely a fine dish in those pretty panties. I could use a bit to eat.”

  Aracely backed him against the couch and made him sit. She then placed her hands on the floor and her chest in his lap. This gave him full access to her heart shaped derriere. “Bon appetit.”

  Dane wanted to take his time, but he couldn’t contain himself. He feasted voraciously on her generous offering. He left no area untouched. She gyrated and softly moaned as he explored with his mouth and his hands, but when she couldn’t take anymore, she screamed out his name. Dane grabbed her around her waist to steady her as she trembled. She hadn’t yet caught her breath when she positioned herself on his lap. She undid his pants and released what she wanted. Slowly she slid down on Dane until she was filled. They moved together; panting, pushing, pulling. He grasped her perfectly round breasts while planting kisses on the ornate tattoo on her back which read “heaven”. She had once told him the name Aracely meant the altar of heaven. He was so enamored at that moment he was ready to take vows at an altar.

  “Querido, dame todo!”

  Dane gave his all as she requested and they both pra
ctically fell from the couch as they rode wave after wave of intense pleasure.

  “Aracely, you are so beautiful. Thank you, love.” Dane stretched out beside her on the plush rug.

  “I’ve been wanting to do that for a long time.”

  “So have I, but I didn’t want to approach you like that just yet. We’re vibing, but we’re not committed. I’d like to be exclusive with you, but there’s no rush for an answer.” Dane looked deep into her eyes to try and gage her feelings. He wasn’t able to read them. “Let’s get washed up so we won’t miss the concert.”

  “Do we have time for fun in the shower?”

  “You are trying to wear me all the way out,” Dane laughed. “Lead the way.”

  After Aracely removed the rest of his clothes, she invited Dane to step into her shower. “Hold on, I have some new bath gels in my bedroom. Something more unisex. You’ll smell fabulous.” She gave him a peck before leaving the bathroom.

  Dane took off his wrist watch and as he went to place it on the counter, he saw there was already a man’s watch there. Before he could really think about it, he picked up the expensive timepiece and saw that it was inscribed on the back. “ From Cely to Jax. Ride or Die 4Ever”.

  Shocked, Dane quickly put the jeweled watch back and strapped his own on again. He stepped into the shower and waited for Aracely.

  He knew this could not be good. Ethan’s dream was strange enough, but Aracely and Jerrae both being connected to Jax was most certainly trouble. Dane couldn’t let her see his mood had changed so he played the role when she dipped under the water.

  “Your skin will be so soft. Let me clean you.”

  His body couldn’t help but react to her touch. Such a gorgeous creature who was probably a criminal.

  CHAPTER FIFTEEN

  The doctors said Ethan was improving, but he was not quite ready to go home. He’d need physical therapy for the injury to his back. When he was shot, his head struck a concrete parking divider and the trauma caused the coma. He was still suffering headaches, but they weren’t as intense as when he woke up a few days prior.

  Dane brought by what he could dig up on Jaxson Rollins. He definitely had a crime ridden past, but nothing ever stuck to the guy. Witnesses changed their statements. Or disappeared altogether. No petty thefts for him; high profile robberies and assault charges. He moved with some pretty dangerous players.

  “How in the world did Jerrae get mixed up with this demon?” The question made him think about “Monelle”. He wanted to ask his doctor did people often experience what he did while in a coma, but then he’d change his mind. He hated referring to it as a dream. How could it be a dream when he was currently living a piece of it now?

  He reached across the bed and picked up his smartphone. Bria had downloaded all his tracks onto his playlist. He sat back and listened to the music he had created. His wife had also bought him his tablet so he could write down all the details he could remember about the “alternate Ethan and Bria.” She was all into writing a novel about their story. He didn’t get to find out if either he or Jax had fallen over the balcony, but of course in her version Ethan was the victor.

  Ethan was deep in thought when he felt someone touch his arm. He was startled, but was relieved to find it was Warrick. “Hey, what’s up my dude?”

  “Sorry, Dad. Didn’t mean to scare you.”

  “It’s all good. I’m glad to see you. How’s everything?”

  “I’m going to be moving into a dorm in a couple weeks. I hope you’re out of here before then.”

  “I hope so, too. I’ve got to be able to drive my first born to college.”

  “And I want you to. I want you to be there for everything that happens in my life.” Warrick turned his head as he felt his eyes water.

  Ethan almost became teary eyed himself. “I know all of you must have been scared to death when you heard I was shot. It’s not cool what happened, but I’m bouncing back.”

  “But what about the next time? It was hard enough for me, but Rafer really started bugging out. Ma is strong, but even she had her moments. What if you get shot again? What if next time…?”

  “Hold on. That’s a lot of what ifs. Let’s just focus on recovery.” Ethan felt bad and he had to calm his son down.

  “Focus on recovery. Aren’t those police files on your lap?”

  Before he could answer, Dane entered the room. “Warrick! Good seeing you.” Ethan put his finger to his lips and slid the police files beneath his covers. Dane understood right away and tried to help his partner out. “Is UGA ready for your brain and your brawn? I hear you be knocking knuckleheads out on the field.”

  Warrick grinned despite himself. “That only happened once and it wasn’t intentional.”

  “Sure, it wasn’t. And that fly honey that be tagging you in all her photos on Facebook; are you still talking to her?”

  “That’s Serenity. Me and her are still dating. She’s real cool.”

  Ethan was grateful for Dane’s interception. His crew was all the way down for him. Payton and Kurt were coming up from New York to visit. He was slowly getting his world back.

  “Warrick, do me a solid and bring me something to eat. I don’t care what it is as long as it’s not hospital food.”

  “You got it, Dad.”

  They waited for Warrick to be out of sight before getting down to business. “The techs said the bug I planted in Aracely’s apartment worked perfectly. I’ve got the recording of what it picked up. I didn’t want to listen to it until we could hear it together.”

  “You all right, man? I know you care a lot about this woman.”

  “I don’t even know this woman. Or if she’s worth caring about. Obviously not if she’s in deep with Jax Rollins.”

  “Nothing’s obvious anymore. Let’s hear the transmission before my kid gets back.”

  Dane pressed play.

  “Jax, when are you going to stop seeing Jerrae? She’s pretty, I get that; but she is not cut out for what we do. You and I have taken down the competition and have been paid well for our services. She doesn’t have the stomach to kill anyone.”

  “I’m training her. Don’t you worry about her skill set or her contribution. Jerrae has been very helpful.”

  “She’s my concern because you are my concern, baby.”

  “Are you jealous, Aracely?”

  “You already know have no reason to be. You’re going to do what you’re going to do. We know who and what we are to each other. I’m just saying.”

  “But you’d like it if I were jealous about you sleeping with Briggs,” Jax teased

  Aracely sighed. “Dane is hot. Perhaps you should feel some type of way.”

  “Emotions just get in the way of business. I’m all about my business. I fake them when I have to and that’s it.”

  “You’re not only about business.”

  A long silence followed, but then the sound of a creaking bed could be heard. Dane checked the amount of time left on the recording and was thankful that they only had to get through one more minute. But there weren’t any more words spoken. None that were recognizable anyway.

  “Damn.” Ethan muttered.

  After a check was run on Aracely Velez, it was discovered that she had done time in the past. Only a few years due to a deal she cut, but she was definitely bad news. They had to put together enough evidence to take to the D.A. to press charges against her for murder, but whose murders is what they were trying to determine. They were hoping getting Jerrae to flip would help them bust their whole operation wide open.

  Dane was in the interrogation room pretending Aracely and Jax’s conversation didn’t still bother him as he played it for Jerrae.

  “Did you even know about him and Aracely?” he asked her as she sat there looking like a deer caught in headlights.

  “Of course I know he has associates he works with closely. You’d have to be close to earn his trust, but no, I didn’t know about her specifically or their relationship.”


  “She said you don’t have the stomach to kill anyone. Have you murdered anyone, Jerrae?”

  “No. I have not.”

  “We need to know how you’ve been helping Jax Rollins. What exactly has he been training you to do?”

  “Jax is a paid assassin. I lead him to James Parr and he killed him. I just set up the mark.”

  “Who ordered the hit? Who paid him?’

  “It was Parr’s partner, Dewberry.”

  Dane pounded the table. “Shit! I can only help you so much. You’re an accessory to murder, Jerrae.”

  “Yes, I know,” she mumbled. Tears began to roll down her cheeks.

  “Did he have something on you to make you cooperate?”

  “For a long time I had no idea he was a hitman. I wouldn’t have gotten to know a known criminal. Jax is the epitome of charm. He’s charming. Intelligent. Handsome. I fell for him hard. Then he let me know a few things here and there. I’m from the hood. I’ve been around thugs all my life. By the time he told me everything he does, it was too late. I loved him. And he pretty much owned me because I knew too much.”

  “Wow. What about your kids? Man, you didn’t think about them?”

  “Like I said, I didn’t know there was any danger. He didn’t come with a warning label.” Jerrae wiped her face. “What do you want me to do?”

  “We need you to wear a wire and get him to confess to killing James Parr. I don’t know if you can get him to open up about any other murders, but if we can get him for this one, we may be able to get justice for other families at some point.”