Forbidden

By Penny S. Bradshaw

Through a bizarre twist of fate, two best friends will suddenly find themselves in the middle of a deadly discovery that is so “Forbidden” that it will leave them fighting for their lives, but only one will survive.

And what appeared to be just another horrible accident leaving two people dead on the side of a hill, was actually the unraveling of a ominous secret that lead to murder.

This book contains BONUS MATERIAL: Love's Final Destination, Revenge!

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: May 22, 2015
• ISBN: 9781483554631

Book preview

them.

CHAPTER ONE: MEET THE PARENTS

Four Days Prior…

"Shannon! Girl, what is wrong with you?" Zoe asked in a tone as though she was chastising a hyperactive child, instead of her 23 year old best friend.

Shannon jumped at the sound of her name being called, and in the process managed to leave behind a dark smudge of navy blue mascara under her slightly red eye. It would have been obvious to anyone within 10 feet of her trembling hands that her nerves were out of control.

Girlfriend, as my grandmother would say, ‘you are as nervous as a long tail cat in a room full of rocking chairs!’ What is your problem? Zoe made sure she poured on the southern accent pretty thick while imitating her grandmother in hopes that it would make Shannon laugh.

Shannon is now beyond trembling to just shy of shaking uncontrollably as she tries to remove the signs of raccoon eyes with a Q-tip, so she can re-apply her makeup. If this person staring back in the mirror was anyone other than Shannon Taylor, it might not have seemed so ridiculous. But Shannon was such an expert at applying makeup, she could be a Cover Girl, and could provide the makeup artists with a few tips on how to maximize the affect with the minimum amount of product. Shannon has been making You Tube videos on how to apply mascara, blush, foundation and sculpting the perfect eyebrow since she was sixteen years old. Therefore, to see her this uncoordinated was a little unnerving for Zoe.

As her raccoon eyes glares at Shannon in disbelief, she finally gives up on the whole idea of applying her mascara. Now totally frustrated, she puts the applicator down on the bathroom counter, and then turns to face Zoe with tear-filled eyes. Naturally, the tears only managed to emphasize the raccoon eyes even more. But, Zoe didn’t have the heart to tell that now she looks like a rabid raccoon on steroids.

Zee, I know what you’re gonna say, and yes, I know it sounds crazy. But, the idea of having Perry meet my parents for the first time is scaring me to death! I mean, what if they don’t like him? Shannon asked.

Oh boy, she must be desperate. She only calls me Zee when she’s begging for a favor, Zoe thought to herself. Zoe walked over to Shannon, covered her trembling hands with her own to give her comfort as any good friend will do.

These two girls are about as opposite as any two people can be, but they have always considered themselves as two sides of one coin. Zoe is African-American, outspoken, overly confident in whatever she does and stunningly beautiful in an almost regal manner without even trying. Shannon is Caucasian, always second guessing herself, naturally brilliant in her studies, eager to please others and often referred to as downright gorgeous. They often described their relationship as finding one’s long lost sister. Therefore, no matter how much they tease each other, there is never any question that they will always have each other’s back.

Shannon, c’mon now. You’ve got to be kidding me. Let’s get real for a moment. If it was anyone else besides Perry, I could see where you were coming from being a ball of nerves. But, not when it comes to Mr. Perfect! Zoe stated, only half kidding.

Seriously though, you know me, and you know I don’t say this stuff often, but Perry is a really great guy. And Lord knows that for whatever reason that only he understands, Perry loves you more than anyone deserves to be loved! Of course, it goes without saying that you better not tell him I ever said that, because I will deny it-- even if it is true.

Shannon couldn’t help but smile at the sound of these words, and Zoe could feel her tension easing just a bit, so she continued.

Now don’t get me wrong, I know meeting your boyfriend’s parents for the first time or vice versa as in this case, is scary to everyone. We’ve all been there before. Even I have had a couple of meetings that I wish I could go back and re-do or undo completely, depending on the guy.

Harvey Hinton! They both yelled out his name and laughed simultaneously.

Oh God. Don’t remind me! I had nightmares for weeks after that one. Ugh. Zoe imitated shaking off the memory, then continued. However, in this case, I really don’t think you have anything to worry about. Think about it, every single one of your friends that has met Perry thinks he’s great. Even I like him and I’ve never liked any of your boyfriends.

After a quick frown and a short hesitation, Shannon nodded in agreement. She couldn’t deny that Zoe has never hidden the fact that she thought that all of Shannon’s previous boyfriends were either idiots or insensitive jerks. And Zoe has never had a problem with letting the guy know exactly how she felt either.

Zoe continued her pep talk. And let’s face it, your parents aren’t going to be any pickier than I am. Need I go further?

Well, I must admit that I’m starting to feel a little better, but far from being in the comfort zone. So keep it coming!

Okay Ms. Glutton for Compliments! Zoe stated teasingly. As I was saying, for starters Perry is very smart, which is more than I can say for any of the other losers you dated; he has a successful career-that’s the chocolate icing on the cake; he has a great personality-that’s the sprinkles on your cake; and he’s actually quite handsome. So, despite your shortcomings, I think the two of you should have some pretty decent looking kids, Zoe stated jokingly.

Ha ha! You’re so funny Zoe Whitfield. I caught the ‘decent looking kids in spite of you’ jab!

Aww girl, I was just making sure you were paying attention. But seriously Shane (Shannon’s nickname since middle school), what more could your parents possibly want? He’s got it all.

"Zoe, I get all that. I really do. But surely you know what is really bothering me.

Sorry, but no. I really don’t. What?

Hello! The 10 year age gap for starters! Oh, and dare I even mention the fact that at their first meeting we will be us dropping this little bombshell announcing our engagement!

"Alright, I’ll admit that I can see where you’re coming from on the engagement announcement. And yes, I’m sure your parents will be a little surprised…

A little surprised?! Shannon interrupted.

Okay, so your parents will be shocked when they find out that you two are engaged after only three months of dating!

Shannon nodded in agreement as Zoe continued.

Even still, having said all that, I also know your parents and they are two of the most warm-hearted and understanding people that I know.

Although Shannon nodded in agreement, she still had her doubts. She never had any real boyfriends while living at home. It wasn’t until she was off at college that she seriously started dating. So, despite her parents kindness, she just wasn’t sure how they would react to Perry.

Zee, I know you’re right, they are usually easy going, but this is different. You know how they are when it comes to me finishing my education. That was one of their major requirements above all else, and the fact that I still have a year before I graduate with my Masters in Biochemistry is not going to set well. I just know it! Shannon was getting herself all worked up again.

"Dang girl. Slow down! You are getting way ahead of yourself. I’m beginning to think I should of gotten a Doctorate Degree in Psychology to deal with all of your drama!

Zoe! Shannon yelled, with a pouted expression indicating she was not in a joking mood.

Okay. Okay. I’ll be serious.

Zoe took a deep breath and continued in a more serious tone.

Look, once you explain to them that just because you’re getting married, that doesn’t mean you will not be graduating from college. In fact, make sure you emphasize the fact that Perry is also insisting that you finish. Once they have that assurance, then in no time they will learn to love and appreciate Perry as much as the rest of us.

And what about the age thing? Shannon pouts.

Girl, I can’t solve all your problems. You’re on your own with that one, Zoe teased.

Completely dumbfounded by Zoe‘s remark, Shannon mouth dropped wide open. However, Zoe continued before she could respond.

"I’m just kidding. Lucky for you, Perry doesn’t look 10 years older than you. I’d say, five years tops. I doubt if his age will even be a factor. Just stay away from the topic of age, years of graduation, and I’m sure the subject will not even come up.

Shannon looked at Zoe and gave her a big hug.

Zoe, thanks for always being there for me and knowing exactly what to say. I really do feel better.

Well, considering I’ve been doing this since we were 11 years old, I’ve gotten a lot of practice at it. And girl, you’re still just as dramatic now as you were back then.

Zoe chuckled to herself as she remembered a particular incident from their past.

Shannon, do you remember in the 7th grade when you had that crush on Alton, the boy with the blonde curly hair and he wore those black-rimmed glasses. Remember, he lived right down the street from us?

"Of course, how can I forget Alton Eastman, my first true love! Besides Zoe, how could I forget the fact that one day when you got mad at me, you actually called him and told him that I had a major crush on him. You know what, I had forgotten just how mean you can be when you get mad. I felt totally humiliated!

Zoe’s was laughing hysterically, now practically in tears herself while reminiscing the events.

And if that was not embarrassing enough, you gave him my phone number, staying I wanted him to call me to see if he felt the same about me. Awwww! I still break out in hives just thinking about it, Shannon yell.

"Oh, c’mon now. It wasn’t that bad. At least it got him to notice you. Besides, he might never have ever called you if it wasn’t for me wanting to seek revenge. It’s just too bad that my plan to totally humiliate you backfired on me when you guys actually started talking to each other.

Oh yea. And after devoting three whole weeks of my life talking to him on the phone every evening, he dumps me for Candy Peterson! They dated until he was a junior in high school. But that’s okay, I guess in the end, the joke was her!

What do you mean Zoe asked.

Did you forget? Alton Eastman and Timothy Baxter are now happily married, and they have adopted a baby girl!

Shannon could barely get the words out before they both burst out laughing so hard tears filled her eyes and overflowed to the point of turning the raccoon eyes into a scary clown face. The distraction worked and Shannon was officially back to normal-- for her anyway.

Once the girls composed themselves, Shannon continued. I suppose you’re right. And if mom and dad get too upset about Perry, I’ll just remind them that it could always be worse. I could be marrying Alton. Shannon joked.

See, that’s a good way to look at it - things could always be worst. Zoe stated.

Zoe, seriously though, do you really think they are going to like Perry? I love him so much that it would really hurt me if the two people that I love and respect the most, didn‘t like the man of my dreams.

Oh brother, this is getting sickening, Zoe thought to herself, but she didn’t dare tell Shannon her feelings. She had worked too hard to get her to this point.

Girl, would I steer my best friend wrong? Besides, you know I have great intuition when it come to men. So, trust me when I say that not only is Perry the perfect guy for you, but your parents are going to love him as well.

Yea right, ‘you have great intuition about men?!’ I also remember you saying something similar about your sister and her husband before they got married. And look how that turned out. Let’s see, if memory serves me correctly there was infidelity, death threats, and a psychotic breakdown--- ah need I go further?

Okay, okay! Zoe interrupted. Forget about all that! Besides, although there were a few challenges, it all worked out in the end, didn’t it? Zoe tried to redeem herself.

I guess. Shannon replied, still not truly convinced.

Look at it this way. It’s not like you have to introduce them to Jefferson or another brother. As cool as your parents are, and despite how much they adore me, the interracial thing might be a problem for them, Zoe stated teasingly. But fortunately for you, that’s not an issue with Perry.

Once Jefferson’s name came up into the conversation, Shannon instantly jumped at the opportunity to change the subject for a moment. She even let the slight insult on her parents character pass by without comment because she didn’t dare miss this chance to discuss Jefferson. However, she did make a mental note to clear the record about her parents in the future.

Speaking of Jefferson, how are things going with you and the tall, cool, cappuccino lover these days? You haven’t really said much about your relationship in a while.

Zoe instantly wished she hadn’t brought that subject up. Despite she and Shannon having been inseparable since childhood, she still hadn’t been able to tell her the whole truth behind her relationship with Jefferson. One day she hoped she could open up to her, but for now, she would only tell her the bare minimum.

Oh, not much. You know, Jefferson is still Jefferson and I’m still me. We’re just kickin it as friends. Nothing serious.

Wow. You managed to get a whole sentenced out, without saying a darn thing. I guess that’s just apart of your mysterious vibe--always secretive, Shannon stated sarcastically.

Shannon, there is nothing to tell. You know I care about Jefferson and I know Jefferson cares about me, but other than that, there’s really not much to tell. Zoe tried to sound convincing, but even she knew it wasn’t working.

Zoe, why is it that I’m always telling you all my personal business, down to the tiniest detail, but I have to pull every ounce of information out of you?

Because YOU love to hear yourself talk about YOU?! Zoe asked sarcastically, knowing it was a rhetorical question.

"Ha. Ha! You’re so funny! Shannon replied.

At that moment, the doorbell chimed. Instantly, the mood changed and all thoughts went back to Shannon and Perry.

Don’t panic! I’ll get the door. You go and finish putting on your makeup while I stall Perry for a few minutes. Now I know he loves you and all that entails, but girl-- you’re going to scare him away with that demonic clown face. So I suggest you get busy, or you won’t have to worry about whether your parents will like him. He’ll just magically disappear on his own! Zoe flashed a fake smile as she quickly turned and walked away.

Oooooh! If you weren’t my best friend, Shannon stated through pursed lips and squinted eyes that were shooting imaginary darts at Zoe’s back.

As Shannon turned to finished her makeup, for a split second, she was actually taken aback when she saw her reflection. Oh, I see what she means.

Zoe proceeded to the door to greet Perry and Shannon rushed to undo the damage that was done to her face. Once Zoe opened the door and saw Perry, she was reminded that she was absolutely correct. Shannon has nothing to worry about. He’s the full package. Preston Cavalier, aka Perry is just shy of 6’0’’, medium athletic build, thick, dark brown hair with ocean blue eyes. He is wearing tan khakis with a white polo shirt and brown loafers. He was not too dressy and yet not too casual. Shannon’s parents will think he is perfect for her.

Hey Zoe, Perry stated as he casually gave her a hug and walked into the room.

"Would you like something to drink while you’re waiting on Shannon? I think we have some peach and mango tea. It might be a few minutes before our girl is ready.

"Thanks, but no. I’m good. Speaking of which, how’s Shannon holding up?

Well, you know Shannon, Zoe replied.

Oh. That bad, huh? Well, I’m sure she’ll calm down eventually after we finally get there and she sees for herself that her parents are not going to disown her for getting engaged without their knowing.

I know right! I told her the same thing. Maybe hearing it from you will help.

Oh no, this is one time that I’m not going to be able to calm her down. She will just have to go through the motions until it’s over. All I can do is be there for support, regardless of how smooth or rough things get, Perry stated with as much sincerity as possible.

Shannon is lucky to have you Perry. Clearly, you really do get her, you know what I mean?

Yea, I do know what you mean. It’s weird because from the moment I met Shannon, I just felt a connection with her that I can’t explain. It was like we had always known each other or just had an unexplainable bond. I don’t know how to explain it. Perry broke off the conversation, frustrated that he couldn’t put into words his feelings for Shannon.

You don’t have to break it down for me, it’s obvious how much you care for her. And I’ll let you in on a little secret, she’s crazy about you as well. Zoe whispered.

Are you giving away my secrets? Shannon asked, as she walked from the bedroom doorway into the living room.

She looks gorgeous. Shannon is wearing a simple, yet stylish white and navy striped sundress with navy wedge sandals. With her slender build, long dark brown hair and soft blue eyes, that girl looks great in anything she puts on. As for anyone that ever saw those two together, it was soon very apparent that Perry only had eyes for Shannon and vice versa. They made a beautiful couple.

Perry turned and stared at Shannon. He looked as though he was seeing the sun shining for the very first time. He quickly got up and closed the gap between them. Shannon and Perry greeted each other with exaggerated smiles, a tender hug and a loving kiss.

Alright, alright! Break it up! Enough of this mushy stuff. Get on out of here you two and go meet your firing squad! Zoe teased.

Zoe! Shannon yelled. You know I’m already stressing. Don’t say things like that!

Girl please! As usual, you are making a mountain out of a mole hill. There are people in the world with real problems. This is just a bump in an otherwise gold paved road. Go! Zoe stated, slightly nudging both of them towards the door.

Okay, we’re going. I’ll call you tonight when we get back to Perry’s place. As you might have guessed, I will not be coming home tonight. Shannon beamed at the thought.

I thought as much. That’s why I took the liberty of inviting Jefferson over tonight while you’re gone, Zoe stated.

Oh really! Well, enjoy, Shannon replied.

I will. Tell mom and pop I said hello, and I’ll see them for Christmas, Zoe stated teasingly as she casually, yet firmly closed the door before Shannon could get another word in or stall any further.

It’s Saturday morning, so the ride from Houston to Austin, Texas is relatively stress free and quite pleasant. Shannon’s parents live in Steiner Ranch, a beautiful golf course community with spectacular lake views in Austin.

Along the way, Perry tried several distraction tactics and made every effort to talk about anything besides her parents to keep her calm. He was well aware of her tendency to lean towards being overly dramatic, but like everything else about her, he had learned to loved it. Her exuberance for life was just one of the many things about her that had captured his heart.

Once while they were still on the road, he tried to get her to stop for breakfast at her favorite restaurant whenever they were on a road trip, Cracker Barrel, but she wouldn’t do it.

Oh, look Babe. The sign states Cracker Barrel is only two exits ahead. Want to stop for a bite to eat, and maybe pick up something out of the store for your mom and dad? Perry asked enthusiastically.

No thanks. My stomach is so tied up in knots I would probably throw up at the first whiff of bacon, eggs and grits.

That mental image of undigested breakfast sprayed over the interior of his well-maintained Porsche was enough to keep his foot firmly planted on the gas pedal as they cruised right on by the restaurant. The subject of food was not mentioned again for both their sakes.

Despite Shannon’s nerves, after 30 minutes into the trip, they still managed to talk about her week at school, laugh about Zoe’s snide remarks and enjoy the ride until they reached her parents’ home. Perry kept her entertained with some of the antics that happened on his job during the week and she told him about her absent-minded professor. For these two, just being in each other company is usually enough to make whatever situation a pleasant experience. It appears, this trip was no exception.

They pulled up in front of the perfectly manicured lawn and parked in the semi-circular driveway. The two-story stucco and Texas stone home was very impressive. The trees were pruned and the flowers were landscaped precisely to enhance the architecture of the house.

Mr. and Mrs. Taylor were in the kitchen when they heard the chime of the front door as Shannon and Perry entered. They had spent all morning getting the house and the food prepared for their baby girl’s arrival. Shannon had used her key instead of ringing the doorbell. To her, why would she ring the doorbell when this was still home.

Mom? Dad? It’s me, Shannon. Where are you guys?

They Taylors looked at each other in anticipation, then walked down the hallway towards the front door to greet their only child and her new boyfriend. After hugging and kissing Shannon, their attention quickly turned to Perry.

Mom, Dad--this is Perry, Shannon stated, gesturing towards the love of her life.

Perry, these are my parents, Peter and Sharon Taylor, Shannon stated while turning back