Forever Blissful: Billionaire Love Series Box Set 1-2

By Jessa Eden

HEA box set:
A woman can stay with you forever.
No matter how far away you flee.
No matter how much time passes.
Marla Matthews stayed in my bones, day and night, branded on my soul.
I loved her beyond anything I thought possible.
Even after she broke my heart.
So why would you care?
Because that’s not the end of the story.
Not even close.
What you’re about to read is a gritty tale of reclaimed love.
It isn’t pretty.
It isn’t nice.
It’s raw and messy as fate gives us one last shot to get it right.
You up for that?
~Beau Shepard

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jessa Eden
• Release date: Aug 14, 2015
• ISBN: 9781310166815

Jessa Eden

Over the last couple of years, writing has become a passion of mine. I pour my heart into each one of my stories, letting my characters go wherever they dare to venture. They often surprise and amuse me. I revel in exploring the human condition through the art of storytelling. Nothing gives me more pleasure than drawing you into a world of emotional connection, compelling characters and hopeful adventure, complete with sizzle and sensuality. My goal is to leave you breathless and panting for more... Write me. I love to hear from readers! I'm always looking to get fresh perspective, inspiration and insight to making my stories the best I can make them. I promise I'll write back. Until then, celebrate and savor the magic of romance, good people!

Book preview

Table of Contents

Forever Branded

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Forever Beloved

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Epilogue

PUBLISHED BY:

Jessa Eden

Forever Blissful

Copyright ©2015 by Jessa Eden

Editing: Hot Tree Editing

Interior Formatting: Pink Ink Designs

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the author’s imagination and used fictitiously.

Adult Reading Material

Other Books By Jessa Eden

Micah, The Fierce Falls Hard For Emma, The Brave

The Whore's Consummation

Forever Blissful: Billionaire Love Series Box Set 1-2

I want to give major props to the people who helped me proof this story. I am very grateful for their contribution:

Nora Brechtel

Denice Clecker

Gabriela Glent

Diane Robson

Colette Trainor

Thank you for purchasing Forever Beloved by Jessa Eden. Please join my Email List for the latest Jessa Eden releases.

ABOUT THIS BOOK

A woman can stay with you forever.

No matter how far away you flee.

No matter how much time passes.

Marla Matthews stayed in my bones, day and night, branded on my soul.

I loved her beyond anything I thought possible.

Even after she broke my heart.

So why would you give a fuck?

Because that’s not the end of the story.

Not even close.

What you’re about to read is a gritty tale of reclaimed love.

It isn’t pretty.

It isn’t nice.

It’s raw and messy as fate gives us one last shot to get it right.

You up for that?

Then hold the fuck on...

~Beau Shepard

HOW LONG WOULD YOU pine for someone you loved?

Months?

Years?

Forever?

For me, I carried a torch twenty-two years, six months, and four days before I saw the love of my life again.

Excruciating, I know.

Why would you do that? you ask.

Because I’d had real love once. A heart-pounding, dizzying kind of love that comes once in a lifetime.

Yeah, it was that good.

Only I was too young and naive to appreciate the gift I had been given before I lost it.

Now, I knew what had been ripped out of my life.

The love of a man named Beau Shepard.

His departure was partly my fault.

But I won’t get into that just yet.

At the moment, I was on my way to celebrate the opening of my sister, Emma, and her husband, Micah’s, foundation. Fresh from getting married, having a baby, and adopting a little boy, they put this charity together after Micah had retired from his career as a professional hockey player.

They’d had a busy year.

I was so excited for them to enjoy this new chapter in their life. It hadn’t been easy for them to get to this point of happiness, but they had persevered and came out better for it.

Their love story gave me hope.

Meanwhile, they were throwing a big party at a fancy hotel in downtown Baltimore and I was running late for it.

I had a pretty good excuse.

Once a week, I volunteered with Meals on Wheels. My last drop off was always Mrs. Edwards and she was a talker. She lived in a cute little cottage style house in a cul-de-sac a couple blocks from my house.

Oh, honey, she started as she opened her ancient screen door. I can’t thank you enough for bringing this meal to me. You’re an angel.

My pleasure, Mrs. Edwards. I’m happy to help.

You know I have a granddaughter that looks like you.

Paige? I asked, familiar with the story.

Oh yes. Do you know her? She has the same pretty dark hair you do.

Thanks, Mrs. Edwards, but no, I don’t know her. You’ve just told me about her before. Anyway, I have to scoot. Lots to do today.

Her round weathered face fell into disappointment. Oh, please come in and have some lemonade.

She looked so sad, how could I say no?

I didn’t have the heart to deny a lonely grandmother company.

All right, I sighed. One glass of lemonade and then I’ve gotta go.

She clapped her worn hands together in delight. Oh goodie. Let me tell you about my granddaughter...

I knew I was running late, but I dutifully followed her in, knowing I would be there for a while. To tell you the truth, I didn’t mind. Her house always smelled of sugar cookies, reminding me of when my mom used to bake for my sister and me.

Mrs. Edwards whipped out her phone to show me pictures as I listened attentively to her update me on the rest of her family. Eventually, after oohing and aahing over pictures of her granddaughter’s graduation from beauty school, I was able to say goodbye and get out the door.

I raced home, stripped off my clothes as I walked down the hall, and jumped into the shower for a quick scrub. Afterward, wrapped in my purple terry cloth towel, I hemmed and hawed between wearing my little black dress or a more daring red cocktail number.

I wished I was more of a risk taker and enjoyed drawing attention to myself.

But that had never been my style.

Ultimately, I decided to play it safe and donned the black sleeveless frock. It was simple and elegant. Appropriate for an afternoon party.

I threw on some makeup, grabbed my purse, and headed out to my car. I backed out of the driveway and sped through the streets of Baltimore, trying only to be a half-hour late.

As I looked in my rearview mirror and attempted to put on lip gloss, I weaved in and out of traffic quickly. Okay, not so safe, but I was used to multi-tasking. I turned into the parking lot of the Baltimore Waterfront Marriot in record time, parked the car, and finished applying my pink gloss. I rubbed my lips together, smearing the gloss evenly.

Perfect.

I jumped out and locked the door of my red Honda Accord, hopped across the parking lot trying to put on a pair of nude heels, and dashed into the big conference room where the celebration was happening.

Marla! my baby sister greeted as I flew in, her blue eyes twinkling in pure joy.

Emma! I threw my arms around her like we hadn’t seen each other in years. In reality, I had seen her a couple of hours earlier at the salon we owned together.

But that’s how it had always been between us.

Tight. Thick as thieves.

We were sisters through and through.

We shared the same smile, thick waist, and voluptuous hips. She was blonde, while I was dark-haired and brown-eyed. Slightly taller than me, Emma exuded a sweet goodness that had won over Micah Turner, the rugged ex-hockey player.

Speaking of which, her dashing husband wasn’t far behind his wife. He engulfed me in a big bear hug. Marla. Thanks for coming! He shook me up and down as I tried to breathe through his enthusiastic embrace.

Glad to be here, I muttered through my squashed lungs. I love supporting a worthy cause.

Good. He put me down and grinned big. We need you.

It wasn’t hard to understand why my sister had fallen for his wicked charms. He was a tall drink of water with chiseled features, dark, thick hair, and bright grey eyes.

I’d made him work damn hard in his quest to win Emma over, but now I loved him like the brother I never had.

He gave me another hug and set off to greet more people streaming in. Glancing around, I took in the cheerful vibe the conference room offered. Between the floral carpet, rose-colored walls, and a ton of sunshine pouring in through the many windows, it was a happy place to celebrate the birth of something great.

Plenty of people were showing up for the party. Big wigs, teachers, volunteers, and half of Micah’s former team were there to support the official opening of the Micah and Emma Turner Foundation.

So cool.

But for the time being, I was more concerned with the cuter things in life.

Where’s the baby? I asked my sister.

Right here. Emma grabbed him from Jedi, my other nephew, who was standing behind her.

She and Micah had adopted nine-year-old Jedi after his mom died of cancer. So sad. However, he was doing remarkably well under the love of his new family.

Hey, Marla, Jedi said as he threw his arms around me.

Hey, yourself. How’s school going? I asked as I hugged him back.

Ah...it’s summer. I’m not in school.

Oh, that’s right. So, what are you up to? I asked, taking in his camouflage cargo pants, tan work boots and tie-dye T-shirt.

I’m playing baseball and hanging out with my friends.

Cool. I’m glad you’re having a great summer.

Tell her about the camp you signed up for, Emma encouraged as she patted the baby’s back.

His green eyes glowed with life. Oh, yeah. I’m going to Theater camp.

That was definitely up Jedi’s alley. You are? That sounds super cool. I tousled his red hair, which was complete with a wayward cowlick sticking out the front. Somehow, it added to his charm.

Yeah, I get to fly on an airplane and everything, he explained excitedly.

Wow. Awesome.

He nodded with a confident smile. Yep, but for now, I gots to go meet me some ladies. I’ll catch you later.

That boy was too much. Precocious in nature, he was always looking to practice his courting skills.

I shook my head. All right. Good luck with that, I said as he left us to wander the room in search of women to flirt with.

Emma grinned as Jedi walked away. That boy is going to be a heartbreaker one day.

I smiled back. I agree. Let’s hope he picks a good one.

Oh, he will, Emma claimed decisively. He’s a romantic at heart and believes in true love.

Yeah, that’s a good point. I hope it’s an easy road for him.

Love isn’t always easy, but it’s worth fighting for, Emma professed, fresh from her recent experience with Micah.

Oh, the perils of true love.

My long ago hurt tugged at my heart. Yes, it is, I sighed.

Emma didn’t really know what had happened to me. I’d kept it hidden all this time because I could never bring myself to share the trauma of losing Beau.

Will you watch Josiah while I play hostess for a little while? Emma asked, interrupting my sad musings.

Of course, let me see the little munchkin. I took Josiah from her, and his little hands immediately latched onto my hair as his mama left to attend to her duties.

He gurgled, his eyes bright with excitement as his little body wiggled about in my arms. He was absolutely adorable with these chubby cheeks and twinkling grey eyes, just like his daddy’s. He smiled big with one tooth sticking out of his bottom gum, making me melt as he tugged at my long, dark hair.

You’re so darn cute! I cooed as I kissed him gently on his temple, his sweet scent reminding me of my son, Charlie, when he was baby. He was all grown up now. He didn’t need his mama like he used to, which made me ache for a little one.

The chances of me being a mother again were pretty slim at the age of forty. But I was definitely grateful I had the chance to be Charlie’s mom.

For now, I loved being an auntie. It was the first time in my life I got to be the fun irresponsible one instead of playing the role of responsible sister, mother, or caretaker.

I’d worn that tedious title most of my life.

Duty-bound.

Steadfast.

Calm in a crisis.

Translation: Dull and boring.

I wanted to let loose, and be wild and carefree. But life had not been kind to me that way. There always seemed to be someone or something I needed to take care of.

Don’t get me wrong, I liked caring for everyone I loved; but I was itching to make some changes now that my son Charlie was grown and Emma had a family of her own.

I just didn’t know where to start.

Hey, sugar, said the unmistakable voice of my dear friend, Grace.

Hey, gorgeous, I greeted as I turned around and gave her a one-armed hug.

Grace was a beautiful redhead, with curly ringlets cascading over her shoulders and emerald green eyes sparkling with joy.

Marla, how are you? she asked after she kissed me on the cheek.

I’m good. Isn’t this exciting? I asked as the baby clapped his hands gleefully together.

Her heart-shaped face lit up with joy. Yes, it is, sugar. Micah and Emma’s foundation is going to do so many neat things for these disadvantaged kids.

Yeah, I can’t wait to have some of the older students apprentice at the salon.

Oh, that will be fun. You be sure to let me know if you need help with that.

I will.

So, what’s new? she asked.

You know, running the salon and being an auntie, I said sweetly, rubbing little Josiah’s round tummy.

He giggled as his pudgy hands grabbed at my hair again.

Grace smiled at our sweet exchange. That reminds me. Joey is super excited to see Charlie. But I didn’t see him when I came in. Is he coming later?

Oh, he’s out of town. He’s backpacking through Europe.

Wow, look out Europe, she teased, knowing Charlie’s habit of getting into trouble. Do you hear from him very often?

He’s having the time of his life. He doesn’t want to talk to his mom very much, but I do hear from him once a week.

That’s good.

Mom, can I have one of these? Grace’s daughter, Alex, interrupted as she came over, holding up a big, juicy chocolate-dipped strawberry.

Sure, honey. Just make sure and eat some veggies, too.

Ah, Mom...that’s what Daddy said too.

Graced tapped her daughter playfully on the nose. If you want the yummy strawberry, eat the veggies.

All right, she sighed as she flounced back to the buffet table where Grace’s adoring husband Sam, who still played for the Baltimore Gators hockey team, was trying to manage a couple of plates of food. He was also keeping track of his active four-year-old son, Joey, who was insisting on carrying his own plate to one of the many tables scattered across the room.

That was a sweet picture.

I loved seeing fathers interact lovingly with their children.

My heart ached over the fact Charlie never had that.

I’d raised him on my own. It wasn’t easy. He’d always been a handful, but he was the joy of my heart and I couldn’t imagine my life without him.

I really couldn’t complain about the cards the universe had dealt me.

I had a full life.

I was blessed with my health, my own business, good friends, and a growing family to love. Plenty to be grateful for.

Did it really matter I wanted more?

Needed more?

My willful heart cried yes, but my practical nature was entrenched in the realities of everyday life. I sighed and pretended I wasn’t surrounded by friends and family happily in love.

Whatchya thinking about over there? Grace asked as she studied me thoughtfully.

I wasn’t about to reveal the truth. I’m thinking I want a drink, I said as I grabbed a frou-frou cocktail drink from the tray of a passing waiter.

Hmm... I can tell something is going on with you, she said, narrowing her gaze and letting me know I wasn’t getting away with anything.

Mmm... there might be, I teased, sipping my cocktail.

Ooh, sugary sweet.

Just the way I liked my alcohol.

She lifted one eyebrow coolly. Does it have to do with a man?

I rolled my eyes. In the entire time you’ve known me, have I ever talked about a man?

No, but I still have hope, sugar. You need a good one.

She was right about that.

I smiled wryly. Sorry to disappoint, but nothing is going on with me.

You sure?

Positive.

Mm-hmm, she said as if she didn’t believe me. But surprisingly, she let it drop. So are we still on for lunch next week? she asked as we watched Sam try to deal with both of his kids who were demanding his attention at the same time.

Yep.

She glanced worriedly at her family. Sounds good. I think I better go rescue Sam, she said as Joey readied himself to chuck a meatball poised on his fork while Sam had his back turned.

I grinned, thinking of Charlie doing things like that when he was that age. Yeah, Sam looks like he could use some help.

She nodded. See you next week, she hollered as she scurried over there, grabbing Joey’s loaded fork as he bent his arm back to fling the meatball at some unsuspecting target.

I chuckled as disaster was averted, the oblivious Sam unaware his wife had saved him from having to explain why he let his kid fire a meatball at an innocent party.

I giggled again as my tummy rumbled reminding me I hadn’t eaten much lately. The buffet table was definitely calling my name. So, with a glass in my left hand and a baby on my right hip, I set off through the throng of people to that wonderful table teaming with goodies.

The delicious smell of savory meats wafted over me, making my mouth water as I took in the divine hors d’oeuvres, sumptuous desserts, and succulent meats. I wanted to dive in and try everything.

Eyeing the chocolate strawberries, I wondered how I could hold a baby, a drink, and one of those mouth-watering treats when I heard a low, deep rumble that burst open into a hearty laugh which made my back go ramrod straight.

I knew that laugh.

I loved that laugh.

Shivers shot down my spine as I turned 180 degrees, my eyes searching out the owner of that deep chortle.

No, it couldn’t be...

I examined the crowd, but it wasn’t hard to figure out where the laugh was coming from as I zeroed in on the source. Standing head and shoulders above most people there, Beau Shepard was chucking it up with a stacked redhead clad in a blue mini-dress.

Holy crap!

What was he doing here?

I froze for a stunned second as my heart galloped against my chest in an attempt to explode out of me.

Was this really happening?

Was I really looking at Beau Shepard in the flesh?

Yep, I was.

My entire system lit up in stunned exhilaration, as if Publisher’s Clearinghouse had shown up at my door with a million dollars. I gasped sharply, my drink sloshing in my hand as the baby let out a loud squeal.

Uh-oh.

Beau’s head turned sharply at my commotion, our eyes meeting in full out contact. His glance widened as our gazes met, his ruddy complexion paling.

Oh my god.

Twenty years fell away as his steely blue gaze held mine and I was suddenly a young girl again, head over heels in love with a boy.

We stared hardcore at one another as I blushed, thinking how fiercely we loved each other once. Until it was shattered one fateful summer day, when everything fell apart and I was forced to make a hard decision.

The last time I had seen him, his face had been dark with heartbreak; his blue eyes dulling with pain as he had turned, running out of my life for good. I had watched him flee, taking my heart with him.

I had wanted to take it all back, but I couldn’t.

I lived with that guilt every day.

But Beau was obviously thriving.

He’d filled out since the last time I saw him. He was still lean, but now he had defined muscle under his dark blue tailored sports coat hugging his broad shoulders.

The midnight blue of his jacket brought out the red highlights in his brown, closely cropped hair. His slightly arched brows were creased in concentration, while his scruffy five o’clock shadow and strong jaw gave him a sexy, sophisticated vibe which meant he was all grown up now.

I half expected to see his famous smirk grace his full, even lips, but all I got was a scowl as his expression turned from shock, to awe, to a hardened rage as he held my gaze; his scathing stare sharp and unflinching.

Hard. Bitter. Hollow. Broken.

God, what had happened to him?

He made my heart hurt.

I had always hoped that somehow, even though we weren’t together, he had managed to live happily. Before the days of Google, I kept track of him through newspaper clippings and the occasional news story. Still, it was a shock to see him fifteen feet from me, looking so cold and unfriendly.

I cringed as his face became an unreadable mask again and he broke eye contact, deliberately turning away. My ears began to buzz in embarrassment and I wanted to flee, but I had a baby and a drink in my hands.

Turning swiftly around, I located Emma through the haze of my panic. I thrust the baby back into her arms, downed my drink, and high-tailed it to the bathroom.

I shut myself in a stall and sat down, wringing my hands, trying to shut down the memories threatening to spill over and make everything messy.

I love you, Marla. Marry me, Beau said, kneeling down on bended knee, his face earnest and open, shining with love one summer day after we had graduated high school.

Yes! I cried, deliriously happy to marry the man I loved.

I threw my arms around him, feeling like I had been given the world.

A cherished memory.

One of the most amazing moments in my life.

I would give anything to have him look at me like that again.

Instead, his gaze had been full of sneering distaste.

He hated me.

I had always feared that, and now I had confirmation he’d never forgiven me.

I was doomed to hold my love for him indefinitely.

A single tear slid down my right cheek as I thought about all the pain I had lived with, and all the pain I had caused. More tears rushed down my face as my heart swirled with relentless regret.

I longed to explain so many things to Beau, to make him understand I had no choice but to break up with him. He needed to know the truth...if only I was strong enough to tell him.

Knock, knock!

The jarring sound pinged through the small bathroom as I wondered what I was going to do about Beau.

Marla? my sister’s sweet voice floated through the stall door. You okay?

Yes, I said quickly, wiping furiously at my face. I’m fine.

Are you sure? You don’t sound fine.

I’m not gonna lie. I’ve been better. I knew my sister had the best intentions, but I wasn’t ready to share what was happening to me.

Can I do anything?

No... I sighed. I’ll be out in a minute.

Okay. Are you gonna be out in time for Micah’s speech?

Yeah, I’ll be there, I said as brightly as I could muster.

You know I’m here if you need me, she offered gently.

Yeah, I know.

I could feel her trying to figure out what to say to me.

There wasn’t anything to say.

Missing my long-lost love just sucked.

I’ll see you in there, she finally said, realizing I needed my space.

‘Kay.

She left, the swish of the door telling me it was safe to come out and face myself. I didn’t want to go back in there, but I didn’t have a choice. I wasn’t about to let Micah and Emma down because I was an emotional basket case.

It was time to pull it together and put on my game face.

I gently opened the door, peeking around to make sure I really was alone.

The coast was clear.

I couldn’t believe my reflection in the mirror as I stood in front of the sink. My mouth was tight with sadness and my glance reflected the years of pain I had suffered as my heart was hanging on by a thread.

But I had survived worse.

I wasn’t going to crumble. I was going to get through this.

I washed my hands, powdered my nose, and reapplied my lip gloss. I wasn’t about to look as shitty as I felt.

Bravely, I headed back, unsure of what awaited me as Micah started his speech. I stood at the back of the conference room as I leaned against the wall and crossed my arms.

Everybody acted so normal, laughing and smiling with each other, seemingly without a care in the world. Meanwhile, I wanted to scream, to let out the pressure building up inside of me, and say, I can’t stand this anymore! I am dying of a broken heart over here!

Melodramatic, I know and not so rational. So instead, I tapped my foot rapidly against the thick floral carpet and crossed my arms tighter across my chest.

Thank you everyone for coming today, Micah announced from a podium at the front of the room, looking strong and confident as he spoke. I wouldn’t be here without my beautiful wife, Emma. She is my inspiration to do something greater with my life than just play hockey, he explained as he smiled lovingly at his wife, his eyes shining with adoration.

God, I wanted a man to look at me like that.

So today, we celebrate the opening of the Micah and Emma Turner Foundation... he continued to speak and outline all the plans for the charity as I looked for Beau.

He was easy to spot, standing to the right of the podium, several rows in front of me. His back was toward me as I took in the width of his shoulders, the strength of his back, and the ruggedness of his profile as he turned to peer at his date.

I couldn’t stop staring at him.

He was still so beautiful.

The energy he’d exuded when he was young had grown into something more carnivorous and ruthless. He reminded me of a tiger—quick and deadly.

I couldn’t help but notice he seemed much more interested in getting it on with the redhead than listening to Micah’s speech. She was glued to his hip, draped over him like some flimsy nightie that would flutter to the floor, forgotten in the light of the day.

Still, he was with her.

Not me.

Her bare shoulder rubbed suggestively against his arm, letting me know they were intimate with each other. My stomach twisted hard as he whispered softly into her ear and then gently bit down on her earlobe.

Wow, that stung.

Tears formed in my eyes again as I looked away, unable to keep myself from being crushed by how easily he had moved on.

Give it break, Marla. It’s been twenty flippin’ years.

So what?

There were no statute of limitations on love.

Beau had been branded on my soul.

I wiped a tear from my eye as Micah wrapped up his speech. So eat up and enjoy! he said in closing, as everyone clapped and cheered.

Good, I could go.

I’d had enough for one day.

I sought the crowd searching for Emma and headed over in her direction.

She was standing with the baby, looking happy and serene with her life.

For the first time ever, I was envious of my sister.

Not that I didn’t wish her every happiness or share in her joy.

But she didn’t have any skeletons in her closets waiting to burst out and mess up her life.

She smiled sweetly at me as I approached her. I tried to grin back, but failed miserably as I got straight to the point. I’m gonna take off.

Her sweet blue glance pooled with sympathy as she tilted her head sideways. Oh, honey. Won’t you tell me what’s wrong?

It was all I could do not to burst into tears. I don’t want to talk about it right now. I just gotta go.

I understand. Will you call me later? she asked, patting my left forearm soothingly.

I nodded slowly after I kissed the baby on the cheek. Yeah, I’ll call you later.

More compassion filled her angelic face. Okay.

Bye, I managed to say as I turned around to leave.

Big mistake.

I plowed directly into Micah and Beau and bounced off the human wall they created standing together.

Oh, shit. I did not need to see Beau face to face.

Whoa, Marla. Where’s the fire? Micah teased as he steadied me.

I caught Beau’s icy blue gaze. Uh…nowhere...sorry, I said, flustered.

No worries. I wanted you to meet one of our board members, Beau Shepard, Micah introduced politely.

I managed to paste a fake smile on my face. Yes, I know Beau.

Oh yeah, Marla and I go way back, Beau agreed, staring at me coldly.

You do? Emma asked, looking back and forth between us.

Yep. Beau confirmed. But that’s old news.

Emma shot me a where-have-you-been-hiding-him glance. Old news, huh?

I shook my head discreetly, my eyes begging her to let it drop.

Don’t you remember me, Emma? Beau probed.

No, should I?

I don’t know...should she, Marla? He fired off another calculating stare in my direction, daring me to reveal the truth.

I cleared my throat, trying to relieve the painfulness of this conversation. I knew Beau in high school, Emma, and I tutored him in English, I said evenly, not wanting to rip open the whole sordid affair.

Beau scoffed. Is that what you call it?

It was a long time ago. Emma was pretty young then, I claimed, wondering how I could get out this mess.

I kinda, sorta remember, Emma said, closely studying Beau’s face as if it would trigger her memory. But isn’t it weird after all this time, your paths would cross again? she asked, pointing at both of us.

Great. My sister was enjoying my predicament.

I smiled, willing her with my eyes to stop talking about the past.

She grinned back, acting as if she didn’t know what she was doing.

But I wasn’t about to let this awkward discussion of our history go on any longer.

I turned toward Emma’s husband. How do you know Beau, Micah? I asked, hoping he would rescue me.

Well— Micah started.

I own the team, Beau cut in unexpectedly.

I was already aware of the fact, but I wasn’t about to let him know this.

What team? I questioned as he stood across from me.

The Baltimore Gators.

Oh, I see. So the whole hockey thing worked out? I asked casually, knowing it had.

He scoffed again, shooting me another frosty glance. Yeah, you could say that.

We stared at one another as years of silence, grief, and love welled up inside of me again, the air growing thick with unspoken hurt and an intimate past which had changed us both.

I suddenly wanted to reach out, to soothe the wild beast. Well then, I’m glad you’re doing so well, Beau, I said gently.

His blue eyes softened for a second and lit brightly.

There was the Beau I had fallen in love with.

The fun mischievous kid, who’d never backed down from a challenge.

I wondered how often he let himself be that way. Did he save it for special occasions, or was he willing to be nice to everyone but me?

Yep, it all worked out, he fired back, his gaze burning with intensity.

Crackle.

Sizzle.

Sizzle.

Damn. Our chemistry still grabbed hold of me with an electricity that blasted through my insides, leaving me breathless.

I cleared my throat, trying to shake the heat running through me. Good to hear, I added, hoping to see him soften again.

Instead, he just glowered. Yep, everything’s peachy, he claimed with a sarcastic edge in his voice as he turned away from me. Listen, Micah, I’ve got to be on my way. But, I’m lookin’ forward to seeing all the good you’re gonna be doing.

A puzzled look crossed Micah’s face as he shook Beau’s hand. All right, man. Take it easy.

Will do, Beau said. Emma, always a pleasure. He shook her hand warmly.

Marla, he said giving me a curt nod.

Ouch. That hurt.

He turned sharply and walked away, grabbing the redhead who had patiently been waiting behind him. She gazed adoringly at his handsome face, like the sun set on his shoulders.

Yikes.

I liked it better when Beau preferred a feisty woman, who wouldn’t take any crap from him. This one looked like she took whatever shit he doled out and asked for more.

I watched as Beau sauntered coolly through the door as if the world was at his feet, ready to do his bidding.

Wow.

It was so time for me to go.

What was that all about? Emma threw at me as soon as Beau was out of earshot.

I don’t know exactly, I admitted.

Yes, you do. But I’m not going to press. God knows the things you’ve seen me through. But I’m here, waiting and willing. When you’re ready, talk to me. She rubbed comforting circles on my back.

We’re here for you, Marla. Anything you need, Micah supplied, studying me thoughtfully with his warm grey eyes.

I nodded as if I was really processing what they were saying. Thanks. I’m gonna go, I said numbly, worn out by the afternoon’s events.

Okay, let’s talk later, Emma said as I headed toward the door.

Sure. I waved goodbye, determined to leave.

I caught Grace’s eye as I left. Her gaze told me she knew something was up.

Geesh, I had too many intuitive women in my life.

I couldn’t get away with anything.

FEELING THE NEED TO get away from everything as fast as I could, I took off as soon as I was out the door, running as if my life depended on it. I hoofed it out to my car, jumped in, and tried to get a grip on my rattled senses after that frosty encounter with Beau.

No, no, no! I hit the steering wheel with the palm of my hand over and over.

That wasn’t supposed to be how we met again.

I’d always imagined we would fall into each other’s arms, speaking words of forgiveness and adoration to one another. Beau would say how much he missed me; I would tell him I didn’t mean what I had said. Instant understanding would erase years of separation as we reveled in finding each other again.

That was the reunion I wanted.

Fat freakin’ chance, right?

You would’ve thought I would be prepared for his bitter disdain.

Nope. I wasn’t.

His scorn had poured over me like scalding hot water as he barely spit out a civil word to me.

Could he be any colder?

It hurt as if someone had plunged a knife in my heart and twisted it in a few times for good measure. I grabbed the steering wheel, trying to steady myself against the onslaught of feelings assaulting me.

Pain, regret, relief, and love all warred within my soul.

You can bear this...you’ve done it for twenty years.

Yeah, I had.

I had made hard choices and lived with the consequences of my actions, sacrificing my personal happiness to take care of my family.

Buck up. People made difficult decisions every day.

Yeah, that thought wasn’t bringing me any comfort.

I breathed deeply several times, trying to keep the grip of my emotions from crushing me. More tears sprung up despite my desire to let go.

I didn’t want to cry.

A million tears weren’t going to change anything.

I shook my head and sighed, putting my forehead against the warm steering wheel. After a few minutes, I was calm enough to drive. I started the car and pulled out of the parking lot, heading home to de-stress. I wanted to take a nice bubble bath and try out one of the new soothing masks I was perfecting.

I pulled into the driveway as my cell phone rang, making my purse vibrate with urgency. I rummaged through various lipsticks, forgotten receipts, and an overflowing wallet looking for the incessant thing.

Hello? I answered breathlessly when I found the phone.

Sugar, are you okay? Grace asked in concern.

I don’t know, I admitted.

What happened to you today?

I saw someone I hadn’t seen in many years.

Oh, come on, there’s more to the story than that. I have never seen you look like this. Put on a pot of tea and get ready to spill the beans. I’m comin’ over.

Grace was like a dog with a bone. I knew she wouldn’t let this rest until she’d talked to me.

There was no use in fighting her. All right, I sighed.

I hung up and walked into my tri-level house, wondering if I was ready to unburden myself after all these years. It had all been so long ago. I didn’t even know if I had the words to express what had happened.

I put down my purse and turned on the kettle. Nothing like a cup of tea to comfort a wounded heart. I glanced around the kitchen, hoping it would bring me some sense of safety.

My sanctuary.

I had updated the kitchen a couple of years ago as a present to myself when Charlie graduated high school. I figured I deserved it after raising him to adulthood by myself.

The kitchen was a big rectangle with an eat-in area on one end, an island in the middle, and the rest of the kitchen on the other side of the room. I went with simple white shaker style cabinets, which Charlie had managed to damage when he was showing me one of his infamous Karate kicks one afternoon when he was nineteen.

Shouting Kiai! he threw his leg out full force, kicking the hell out of one of the lower cabinets. A big chip of paint fell off, leaving a permanent dent in the top corner of the door.

Ah, Mom. I’m sorry, he said, his brown curls falling over his forehead, making him look like he was ten years old again.

That’s okay. I’ll think of you when I look at the poor, sad cabinet with the chip in it, I said, kissing his forehead.

I’ll fix it, he promised.

No, that’s okay. It’ll be a little touch of character in the kitchen.

Should I sign it? he asked, perking up at leaving a permanent memento behind.

He was so cheeky he made me laugh. So when you get famous, people will know that Charlie Matthews lived here?

You bet, he said, confident this would be true someday.

The chip’s enough. I think I’ll pass on your autograph.

Okay, I thought it was worth a shot. I think I’ll go practice my Karate moves outside.

Good idea, I agreed as I laughed.

He has always been incorrigible. It still made me smile when I thought about him, karate chopping the door. The memory was priceless.

The rest of the kitchen had a beachy cottagey vibe. The backsplash was a white subway tile with a teal glass tile inlay, which contrasted with the butcher-block counter tops I had put in. Reclaimed hardwood of various shades ran the entire length of the house. In addition to the beautiful floors, the kitchen faced west and sunshine poured in from the large windows over the sink, letting me soak in my fantastically beautiful backyard.

The overall feel was soft, warm, and comforting.

Just what I wanted.

Especially on a day like today.

As I waited for Grace, I changed into some black knit shorts and an old, worn, white T-shirt that was super comfortable. I ran back down to the kitchen, got out some cookies, and prepared the tea.

Twenty minutes after we talked, Grace pulled up in her red Audi.

I met her at the front door. Come on in, I said as she pulled off her black Prada sunglasses.

Hey, sugar. Is the tea ready? she asked as she put her glasses away in her Gucci purse.

Uh-huh. Got your favorite.

Black currant?

Yep.

She followed me into the kitchen where we sat down at the wooden table. Many heartfelt conversations had happened at this kitchen table over the years. Mostly between Emma and me. But Grace had joined our sisterly ranks in the last year.

She studied me sympathetically with her electric green eyes as she held her tea with both hands. Okay, what is going on? You turned white as a sheet and got out of that party so fast, I thought your hair was on fire.

I sighed heavily. It’s a long story, Grace. I’m not sure I’m ready to talk about it.

She nodded in acceptance. I understand. But whatever is happening to you, it needs to breathe, Marla. It couldn’t have been all that bad. I saw how you looked at Beau Shepard. There was bright burning love etched across your face. I know there’s a fabulous story attached to that look.

God, had Beau seen what Grace had?

My love on display after all these years?

Talk about feeling vulnerable.

I cringed, wishing I could be stone cold when it came to showing emotion.

I don’t know, Grace. I’ve never talked about it before.

Never?

I shook my head no, as I ran my thumbnail back and forth along the edge of the table. It’s always been too personal and painful.

All the more reason to let it breathe, Marla.

I didn’t want to hear that.

But I knew I needed to entertain the possibility of telling my story.

All those memories were threatening to shake loose and unravel into utter chaos. I stared at the shimmery teal glass tile, willing it to give me an answer.

Did I really want to swim in those deep waters?

What was the worst that could happen?

A trusted friend would know my deepest secret.

That wasn’t so bad. I could live with that.

Besides, Grace was a wise woman and I definitely needed a friend to help me sort this all out, now that Beau had walked back into the picture.

Okay, I conceded. I’ll tell you the story. But are you sure you want to hear it?

She gave me a comforting smile. "Of course, sugar. I