Who Knew

By Wendiann

And When...awakened her wants and desires

Now What...thrust the past upon her

Who Knew she’d be crushed by it all...

Weaving through New York’s elite all dressed in their finest, she heard bits and pieces of the conversations. The premiere toted a success and deemed the one to watch, Jade’s confidence surged. About to join her family to celebrate, the truth flashed.

The noise in the room suddenly echoed to a deafening buzz. No matter how loud, it wouldn’t stop her inner churning of the hell life had become.

With learning all the pieces of his twisted puzzle, Jade Prency would need far more than champagne to escape, unscathed.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Wendiann
• Release date: Aug 2, 2015
• ISBN: 9780992034108

Wendiann

I am a regular, everyday person, who sees herself as a realist and dreamer. The dreamer wants to write full time, the realist keeps me pushing at a day job. My dramatic fiction trilogy; 'And When, Now What and Who Knew', follows the life of a middle-aged woman, coping with unexpected twists and turns. Far from glamorous or perfect, she must find ways to navigate challenges of illness, grief, health, love, relationship and discover who she is, what she wants as she follows life. For Producers of Films/Television and Publishing houses to take note, they check # of sales and followers, not if it is a well written, great story that relates to audiences. Those with fame or who have contacts to those in the know, rise up the ranks as it is a numbers/money game. Indie's hope to gain enough likes on Facebook and Linked-In platforms, to receive thousands of reviews to stand a chance. Funny, the Harry Potter series was written by an unknown who for years was overlooked. It took one person taking a chance after reading the manuscript. That is what all Indies pray to emulate, all it takes is the right person to read their book. For me, hearing how my books make you feel is my reward. Good or bad, I love reviews as they help me be a better writer. The realist knows it's a one in a million shot and with working full time, what little time left at the end of the day is spent creating. Maybe someday that one person will read my work, who knows? I don't have time to worry about it, so instead I write because I simply love it. I've started two novels in different genres, a futuristic crime and a comedy. They are each half complete and I will keep at them as time allows. To readers who have taken the time; It's all up to you. If you want to leave a review, the more feedback, the more it pushes me to continue writing. It's like a burst of creative and inspiration for me. If you want to like my pages, I welcome your support. I am simply humbled and grateful you took the time to read my work. Thank you!

Book preview

Prologue

Jade leaned against the pitchfork and watched his arms strain as he hoisted the muddy straw out of the next stall. Sweat glistened off his forehead above brown eyes, his hair dripping wet beneath the cowboy hat. Billy had become an integral part of daily life. When they’d met a little over two years ago, her arrogance had gotten in the way. She’d bought the place and thought she could handle it all. Looking back, it would’ve been impossible without him. Billy loved this ranch as if he owned it himself. Jade scooped another fork of clean straw from the wheelbarrow and scattered it in the stall.

Back then, he’d bucked her at every turn. He was used to the previous owners and didn’t much like the changes she’d brought. During the house construction, she’d come on weekends, but left him in charge that first six-months. Once she’d moved in, Jade followed and asked him so many questions, he’d quit twice. He’d show back up as she struggled with the chores, but her pride got wounded. Billy would walk in and take over while making comments about city people chasing hobbies. He was such a know-it-all and they’d clashed.

Jade turned to find him watching her.

Aren’t you done? he asked.

I’m putting the last bit down.

I need to wash Temptress’s stall. Go refill and give me a few.

She watched him stride across the barn to retrieve the hose as she headed out of the barn.

Temptress had been the gift that changed everything between them. She still teased him about being tongue-tied the day she was brought here.

A break in the film schedule had given her time to move and settle in. The furniture in place, but boxes lingered in every corner of the house. During the days she’d learn from Billy and at night, she’d unpack.

She’d been here a month when she opened the front door to find Bobby and Jackie on her porch. Shocked to see them in Virginia, they’d barely walked into the living room when the doorbell sounded again. Their sly smiles said they were up to something and Jade went back to the door and turned the handle.

Hiya, Sunshine! Come see what we brought, Brady said.

She’d stepped onto the porch to see a second truck with a horse trailer. What’s going on?

Wait right here, Bobby answered as he and Brady walked down the steps.

From the bottom stair, Jade watched the men lower the trailer ramp. The whinny sounded as sunlight hit its dark chestnut hair. The tufts of grey and white at the top of each hoof, she knew it was her and cried right then and there.

Are you kidding me? She went to the trailer Oh my God. Jade rubbed her hand over the horse. Bobby, I can’t.

Too late! he interrupted. She makes the perfect ranch-warming present and we’re not hauling her back. You’re stuck with her and there’s nothing you can do about it.

After hugging him, Jade proudly took the lead as the four walked Temptress to the barn.

Billy was stunned at the magnificent animal. That alone had proved this ranch was more than a hobby and introducing Bobby, a renowned breeder, was the kicker.

Bobby settled her in a stall and detailed her care as a new Billy emerged. No longer the know it all, he was like a child with a superhero. He didn’t interrupt, instead, he’d hung on Bobby’s every word. They left Temptress in Billy’s care and headed back to the house to celebrate. That was the best day on this ranch.

She leaned against the wagon and looked over her property. There’d been many good days over the two years here. The house she designed stood proudly at the end of the gravel road and seven horses now grazed in the pasture. ‘And When’ was carved into the wooden sign at the start of her driveway. She’d accomplished it all.

Well not all, the inner voice reminded. You should sell and move.

Jade watched the horses. Could she give this up? There was no one to blame, was there? Given the opportunity to do it again, she’d not make the same choices, but hindsight was always easy though.

The whole mess had started the day of Bobby and Jackie’s engagement party. That’s where she went wrong. She was tired, frustrated and confused.

Looking Backwards

Chapter One

Her stupidity had plagued all night long. She dozed here and there, but never for long. Her thoughts refused to stop as it searched for a solution. As dawn slowly crept into the guest room, she’d run out of time and the engagement party would go on, with or without Tyler as best man.

‘She’s his priority. Things won’t ever be the same,’ his words were that of a selfish child last night. Giving up on sleep, Jade angrily threw back the covers to head for the shower.

What did he think would happen? Love meant caring enough to change everything for someone. What a jackass! She stepped under the hot stream of water.

Last night she’d felt powerful when she’d stood up to him. Strong and assured one second, when his eyes filled with venom, she knew she’d pushed too far. Who cares! He deserved every word, the devil voiced.

Did she want him? No, she expected he’d quit being a jerk and he’d have the balls to voice things. His attitude made her madder than hell and they’d argued. When that failed, she gave into him, believing that was his currency. Only afterwards did she hear the truth.

Water pulsed against her skin as she pictured the night ahead. He’d probably go to town or hide in his cabin to avoid the party. As much as that would be a relief, it’d be a huge blow to Bobby.

‘I consider you a brother and wonder if you’d be my best man.’ Bobby had said those words from his heart.

Some brother! Tyler stormed away, leaving hurt etched on his face. What a selfish ass! Jade moved under the stream of hot water as she soaped. If only soul cleansing would work this way. The drain could swallow her mistake last night and there’d be no worry of a fall-out.

Your heart was in the right place wanting to iron things out. You tried to make things right, the angel reminded. You deliberately tried to manipulate the man the devil intoned. Her head whirled, second guessing.

She left the shower, dressed, then stood drying her hair and from the window she saw him head towards the barn and her mistake magnified. She ducked to avoid detection. Why can’t you want the man?

Because it shriveled to nil, that’s why! It’s all about what Tyler wants, his way or the highway.

Turning off the dryer, she began applying make-up as she formulated her plan for tonight’s party. She’d show total control, focus on the engagement celebration and the guests. Smile at all times regardless of who shows, the angel lectured. Brady will be there, the devil teased.

So what? Last night wiped him away and he was no longer the last man to touch her. It’d been a long time coming and she expected to feel relief, yet she felt as if she’d cheated somehow.

Cheated on what? You aren’t in a relationship and never were! He’s used you repeatedly to fill a void in his sorry life. Last night with Tyler is none of his business. Actually, none of your life is his business. You erased him and it’s over.

She squared her shoulders with pride, then heard noise outside her door as Jackie and Bobby footfalls echoed down the stairs. She erased her crazy thoughts, trying for normal.

Taking a deep breath, she smiled at her reflection as it was show time, her façade in place.

Good morning, she said cheerfully when she entered the kitchen.

I hardly slept, Jackie uttered.

I near had to knock her out last night. She kept chattering on, Bobby said. One more month and we’ll finally have normal life with no more talk of flowers, food, parties or guests.

My life was normal before I met you, Jackie defended. First, I travel back and forth until I move here, then I plan the engagement party in a week, and then I have to plan a wedding. I’m not sure what life will be like once it’s all said and done, Jackie said as she reached for coffee mugs from the cupboard and placed them on the counter.

Senora, I do, Maria, the housekeeper entered and waved Jackie out of the way. You sit, I bring. What you like for breakfast?

Jade, what would you like? Jackie turned to her.

Toast and coffee is fine. Jade took a seat at the dining table in front of the patio doors that led to the back deck.

Bobby sat leafing through the morning paper. Maria, put my coffee in a to-go cup. I need to check on the barns, then I’ve got to run into town. He folded then placed the paper aside. This is your last chance. I’ll be back before lunch, so do you need anything from town? He looked to Jackie who sat next to him.

If I think of anything, I’ll call.

Maria brought coffee for the ladies, then returned to pass Bobby a large thermal cup.

You two enjoy the morning. He stood and began to walk away. Oh, and Jade, keep her feet on the ground, would ya? He smirked.

Oh sure, like I can keep her calm, she answered with a grin.

There’s almost a hundred and fifty people coming, how do I stay calm? Jackie blurted out.

I didn’t realize there was that many.

We made the list, but Bobby keeps adding. With him growing up here he knows everybody. I haven’t met most of these people!

That’s a lot of people to make room for if it rains. Jade looked into the living area to gauge the space.

The four tan oversized leather couches left plenty of space for seating, if needed. Five brown high-back chairs stood at the front bay window with a cream marble-topped table in the middle. Easily there was fifteen feet between the two areas which could be utilized. The dining room would host fourteen but if they moved the chairs out it would allow for more to mingle.

It’ll be cramped, Jackie said as she followed Jade’s line of vision.

You no worry, Senora, this house see big parties. I help, my family help, Maria said when she brought them their toast.

Thank you, Maria. I don’t know what I’d do without you. Jackie smiled. Which reminds me, the caterer will be here at five to bring the food, can you oversee things?

You no worry, Maria chuckled. I take care.

See, Maria has it all under control. Let’s sit outside and take in the sun. Jade stood with her coffee and plate of toast and Jackie followed suit.

At only ten in the morning the sun beat down to warm the deck as Jade relaxed into the white cushioned couch. It’s really very pretty back here. Last night it was stunning with the lights. It’s the perfect ambiance for a party.

I’m glad Bobby put them up. I never would’ve thought of it. Honestly, he’s been involved every step. He had the patio furniture re-covered in white and rented matching tables and chairs for down by the fire.

Furniture dotted the backyard, chairs and tables surrounded the stone fire pit to host twenty, three tables near the rose garden for another large group. Circular tables on the deck ran the length of the house. Everywhere she looked there were intimate areas for friends to gather and having different sections, would force people to mingle from group to group.

Bobby had installed two bench swings from the ceiling at either end of the porch. The gazebo revamped as a stage with tables and chairs surrounding a makeshift planked dance floor laid in front.

You couldn’t have found a better man, Jade remarked.

My life is coming together. A little later than I’d hoped for mind you, but it’s like all the crap I went through, led me here.

Karma, what’s meant to be will be, Jade offered with a grin as she put her empty plate aside.

Wouldn’t it be great to see what’s ahead? That way we’d know who the right man is for you. I want you to be as happy as I am.

But if we knew the outcome would we enjoy the journey, that’s the question, Jade posed.

I think it’d be far simpler. You’d know where to be and when, who to talk to, who to believe in and who to get rid of.

It would save time, that I’ll give you, but what about chance happenings or the unexpected part. That’s the thrill of it.

But if we knew, you wouldn’t have wasted time on Brady, Jackie said with disdain.

Is that how you see him, a waste of time?

You’ve spent too many years questioning that man. I’d rather see you invest time in other men, like Tyler.

Last night flashed and Jade had half a mind to tell her that Tyler was a jerk and completely jealous of her upcoming marriage.

Is that why you changed the subject every time Brady was mentioned last night?

I don’t want you to waste any more energy on him. After what he pulled in Virginia, he’s a complete jerk!

I’ll never understand why he did that.

There is something wrong with someone who plays games all the time, Jackie spat.

"I think that’s the only way he knows how to live. Like Tyler’s lack of communication, is his way. Who knows why men do

anything really? I think women are the oddballs for trying to make sense out of them."

That’s not true! Bobby didn’t hide a thing and made his intentions more than clear. That’s normal.

I’m not sure you’re remembering things clearly. What about the first time you met when he was all fun and games? You had no clue you’d end up walking down the aisle. We had mere days left in Garland and it took his chasing after you the reason we’re here today. How sure would you have been of his intentions without that? Jade sipped her coffee and watched her cousin’s brows furrow.

I knew from the first moment he wasn’t like anyone else.

Sure, there was attraction, but if you really knew, the proposal wouldn’t have shocked you. I received the screeching phone call with ‘I’m getting married! Oh my God he proposed!’" Jade smirked seeing Jackie’s cheeks blush.

He wasn’t anything like Brady, I mean come on, Jackie started. Brady lied from the start and when he had balls to show up finally, he plays another game. Pretending to be in a coma, tell me you don’t see that as ignorant?

I see all of it as ignorant. He’s like the rest of the men I’ve met over the years. Tyler, Derek, even as far back as my first husband. I think I have a sign on my back saying, ‘if you’re a twisted jackass, apply.’ Jade chuckled.

You see Tyler as a twisted jackass?

Last night Tyler stormed off, so definitely! She wanted to add that sex with him meant no intimacy, no wonderment, no nada, a shiver ran through her spine.

I think he’s mad at you.

This is to celebrate you and Bobby. He turned Bobby down when he should’ve stood up to be his best man. That doesn’t say loyalty, care, or that anyone’s needs are important.

I think it’s because you didn’t want him in New York.

That should have no effect on their friendship. Either you value someone, or you don’t. For the record, it’s not that I didn’t want him, it’s that he expected everything his way. In New York it fell apart in four days. He couldn’t get away fast enough. There was no discussion, no let’s sit and hash this out. He was jealous for no reason and ran.

That was because of Brady!

I want a partner that’ll work through things and not storm off. Face it, he wouldn’t adapt to my life anyway. His heart is here in Texas. That’s who he is at his core and he deserves to find someone who shares that lifestyle.

You want horses one day, so maybe down the road you two would meet in the middle, Jackie threw in.

I can’t live in tomorrow, maybe or one day. I’m not sure where life will lead and to ask someone to change their life when I don’t know where I’m headed would be disastrous! Jade replied.

Don’t you ever get lonely?

I’d be lying if I said everything is peachy keen and roses, because it’s not. There are times I want someone to share things with, but I have you, Lisa, Nicki, Sarah and others I lean on.

"No, I mean lonely as a woman. Don’t you want someone to

cuddle with and make love to?"

The shock of seeing him again had tapped into those feelings, but his bullshit erased them. In the quiet of her apartment she’d decided it would never be.

Jackie, it took you how many years to find Bobby? You were exactly like me six months ago and went day to day, never thinking of what’s not there, Jade said, then chuckled to ease things. I’ll find him when I’m supposed to. Until then, I’ll focus on my career and what I want.

You don’t want Brady or Tyler?

Deep Diggings

Chapter two

Jade now thought about Jackie’s question. Luckily, she didn’t have to answer at that time, thanks to Maria’s interruption.

‘The food man, he here,’ she’d said in a tizzy when she came out onto the patio.

After greeting the caterer, they’d set-up banquet tables and the plan for the party took over. Jackie expected them at five but had forgot about the eleven o’clock appointment to bring the equipment. They’d organized three food service areas; one close to the fire, then two on the deck from where staff would serve a bite-sized menu.

Two bars were stocked, Bobby’s as the main one, another was placed down the stairs next to the dance floor and the third on the deck. Sparing no expense, Bobby ordered a five-foot beer tub that was set next to the fire pit. The crew left an hour later and would return at five.

How about we take a nap until Bobby gets back? Jackie suggested.

That’s a good idea. It’ll be a long night, so you’d best catch-up or you’ll fall asleep at your own party, Jade replied with a smirk.

I am tired, but what will you do? Jackie questioned.

I’ll nap. You really have to stop worrying about me or you’ll have bags under your eyes. You don’t want that, do you?

Calming her cousin was never easy. The past three years of working together had proved that. Too often Jackie fussed over everyone else, but herself. Tonight, she was the ‘Star,’ whether she liked it or not. Jade went to her room, so Jackie would follow through. Twenty-minutes later, she silently slipped out to go for a walk. Wanting solitude, she headed up the long front drive towards the highway.

On either side, the pastures were dotted with the many horses of the Double R. Choosing the graveled edge instead of the hot pavement, pebbles rumbled with each step as she thought about that question.

Give in to Tyler and he’ll do the right thing. That had backfired. To boot, it wasn’t even good. With his good looks, she’d assumed Tyler would bring the fireworks. What a mistake!

Two horses on her left followed her, trailing along at her pace. Jade crossed the ditch as they poked their heads over the fence. Hello, she said as she rubbed the hair on their noses.

Whether a dog, cat or horse, animals brought a peace to her soul. Today they did little to ease her tension.

Jade moved back to the edge of the driveway to focus on tonight’s situation. Where the sign graced the entrance, she turned to see that both tagged along the rest of the way. Jade sat on the edge of the driveway and looked back at