Where There's Smoke

By Olivia B. Dannon

Bella Struthers, recent widow, is determined to find out what really happened to her Navy SEAL husband. His mysterious death has her heart in a vise. Answers are her only ticket to freedom.

Vincent Belluci moved to Peaches, Colorado a year ago, meeting Bella on his first day. He's wanted there ever since. Her witty, quick tongue and fearless nature strokes his libido like no other. But... she was married and off limits.

Now that she's not, how long is he supposed to wait?

Joining forces with Bella, Vince hopes to help her gain closure. However, getting answers from Navy SEALs is turning out to be a deadly game. Bodies are piling up. It'll take all his old mobster life know-how to get them both out alive.

Even if they do miraculously survive, will Bella and Vince have a chance at a happily ever after of their own?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Olivia B. Dannon
• Release date: Sep 17, 2016
• ISBN: 9781370041589

Olivia B. Dannon

Love a great romance?? Me too! I write fast paced romances that will keep the pages turning. Look for drawings and prizes!! I love a great giveaway! Connect with me on Facebook, twitter, and my website. I love connecting with readers and don't forget to rate my books, especially if you enjoyed them! A little about me? Well, let's see, I'm from a big family. I was a shy kid but not so much anymore. My family and writing are my two passions in life. There isn't anything I wouldn't do for my family and being a mom is such a blessing. I love cliffhangers and Happily Ever Afters, oh and suspenseful moments too. Don't forget to connect with me on Facebook so you wont miss out on the games, and giveaways!

Book preview

Chapter 1

Bella Struthers put the report on the desk in front of senior Commanding Officer Perry of the Navy SEALs. I understand that the missions of the Navy SEALs are secret. My husband died serving in the Navy SEALs and this report has just about everything redacted besides his name. I need to know what happened to my husband .

The best we can give you is the report, ma’am, and we are sorry for your loss. I knew Brick personally. He was a good man.

This report is blacked out. It doesn’t tell me anything. I want answers. What happened to my husband? I need to know. She tucked a soft red curl of hair behind her ear and out of her face.

Commanding Officer Perry frowned. He died bravely in the line of duty. It was a quick death. He didn’t suffer. I know that, I looked into it myself but that is all I can tell you.

It’s not enough. Something happened. Something went wrong, and I think it’s being covered up. Something is wrong in all this. I can feel it. Bella put her hand over her heart and swallowed hard so she wouldn’t cry.

Mrs. Struthers, you’ve spoken to everyone in my office, probably everyone in this building over the past six months. I understand you’re grieving. I understand you have questions. It breaks my heart to have to turn you away with such little information, but this is for the safety of the country and your personal safety as well.

Bella clenched her teeth together. I know someone killed Brick. I want justice, Officer Perry, and I want to know why. He was glaring at her, but she didn’t care. You can dismiss me but I’ll be back. I’m not going to quit until I have answers.

I have to warn you, Mrs. Struthers. You are navigating dangerous waters here. If what you say is true you’re putting yourself in danger. Has it occurred to you that if you’re right and your husband’s death was somehow linked in some dishonorable act, your husband could be stripped of his reputation? A dishonorable discharge would take away all benefits. The benefits Brick worked hard to make sure you have, Mrs. Struthers.

Bella stood up out of her chair and put her hands on the desk. Brick was not capable of being dishonorable. How dare you call him by his first name and claim to know him. If you knew him at all you’d know there isn’t the slightest chance of a dishonorable discharge.

It’s time for you to go, Mrs. Struthers. Do not come back. We’ve been patient with you out of respect for your late husband but you’ve just used up the last of my patience.

The door opened behind her and a soldier in a navy blue uniform came to stand at her back.

Please escort Mrs. Struthers from the building. Make sure she is not allowed back in the building without invitation. Goodbye, Mrs. Struthers.

This doesn’t change anything. I’m going to find out what happened to him, Bella told Perry, meeting his cold gaze.

A smirk raised his brow as he looked back at her. Good luck with that, Mrs. Struthers. I do hope you seek some professional help. He nodded to the man in uniform behind her, who placed his hand gently on her arm.

This way, ma’am, he said.

You just confirmed for me that I’m right, Bella said to Officer Perry. I’m not giving up. She took the report from the desk and snatched her purse up off the floor. Bella turned to the soldier who was escorting her out. Shall we? she asked and left Officer Perry’s office with probably a very red face, but she held her head high.

Everyone in the outer room and hallway seemed to have heard her outburst. All eyes were on her.

Great.

Perry tried to intimidate her into stopping her search for answers by threatening Brick’s reputation and benefits.

What an asshole.

The officer walked her all the way to the front doors of the building. Have a good day, Mrs. Struthers, he said with a solemn expression.

Bella kept walking.

Damn that Officer Perry. Why can’t he put me out of my misery? I need answers dammit!

She fished a cigarette from her purse and was on the verge of having a tantrum outside the naval base when she couldn’t find her lighter.

Bella?

She looked up to see Kyle Stern and Dean Hershal heading her way. Naval friends of Bricks.

You smoke? Brick told me you got on him for the cigars. I didn’t know you smoked. Kyle smiled embracing her. Need a light?

Yes, thank you.

Dean found his lighter first and offered the flame to Bella. She drew in air watching Dean over the flame. Bella inhaled deeply needing the nicotine she’d become addicted to in such a short time.

How are you? Dean asked. He’d always seemed so small when he’d been standing next to Brick. Now that he wasn’t, Bella realized Dean was at least six feet tall. He was lean with light blue eyes and buzzed medium brown hair.

Bella smiled even though she’d come to hate that question over the past six months. I’m missing Brick. But I’m fine. She remembered both Dean and Kyle had attended Brick’s funeral.

They were in Brick’s unit and they’d shipped out, or at least that was what she’d been told right after Brick’s funeral. You taking some time on land, boys? she asked blowing the smoke to the side.

Kyle grinned showing her a smile that was still handsome despite the lines the sun and wind had deepened in his oval face. He was ruggedly handsome and Kyle often used it to his advantage. His blond hair was streaked with gray seeming to add to his charm.

He was smiling at her, and she was smiling back at them both but she didn’t trust them. In fact, she wanted to knock their heads together and demand they tell her what really happened to her husband.

We get a couple of months, as a matter of fact, Dean said.

That’s great. You’ll have to come by. Invite the whole crew, won’t you? Bella who was often accused of being a flirt even though she had no idea how to do it smiled brightly hoping this was invitation enough.

Kyle laughed. You want a bunch of sea dogs over? Are you sure, Bella?

Absolutely. How about tonight? Are you busy? she asked them both. Even if she could only get these two over. Maybe she could get a list of names from them and try to figure out which one of them stole the lockbox key from her house after the funeral.

There was no way whoever stole the key knew where that lock box was but Bella did. She imagined that if they were desperate enough to steal the key in the first place they were probably foaming at the mouth by now trying to find it.

Bella?

Crap. What did I miss?

Sorry, lost in thought. What did you say?

Dean smiled touching the end of his cigarette to the bright orange ember at the end of hers. I said, I’d love to come over. What time?

Eight? Does that work?

I need to do the dishes. You know what, forget the dishes these two won’t even tell me what happened to Brick.

We’ll be there, Kyle said giving Dean’s shoulder a shove. Dean was standing a little close but Bella figured it was just how Dean was. She took another pull of the cigarette and then put it out in the ashtray/garbage can. See ya then, Bella said and crossed over to the parking lot.

Her cellphone started buzzing in her purse so she pulled it out with her keys. Hello, this is Bella, she said as she unlocked the car.

Hey, Bella, I thought we were meeting for a late lunch, Eileen one of her closest friends said.

Bella looked at her watch though she already knew what she’d find. She was late, again. I’m so sorry. I’m on my way now. Where do you wanna meet?

Penny’s that’s easy. My baby needs barbeque chicken, Eileen said. I’m already parking. Do you want me to order for you?

Bella got in behind the wheel and closed the door.

Kyle and Dean were still standing there. Kyle watching her and Dean smoking like a chimney. What did they know? The last time she’d asked Dean what happened, he’d said he didn’t know because he wasn’t there when it happened.

The look on his face told her different.

Is that a yes? Eileen asked.

Oh, yes, that’s a yes. Sorry, Bella said starting the car.

Eileen laughed. You sound distracted. Are you going to stand me up? Don’t make me eat alone. I’m so pregnant I may go into labor when I eat because I swear there is no more room in my stomach.

No, of course not. I’m on my way.

If you’re not here in ten minutes, I’m calling you back. Eileen laughed.

Bella grinned. Okay. See you in a sec. Bella pressed end and set the phone on the seat beside her. She pulled off the base and onto the freeway. She might just make it under ten minutes if she didn’t hit heavy traffic.

The phone started ringing as she spotted her exit. No way was that ten minutes, she said answering the phone.

You’ve been digging into shit that isn’t your business, an electronic voice said into her ear.

Who is this? Bella asked.

Brick is dead. Back the fuck off unless you want to join him, bitch. Understand?

Bella looked at the phone display. It was a blocked number. Do you think I’m going to be scared off by some coward who won’t even tell me who he is? I’m not going anywhere. If you want me to stop. come and get me. She ended the call and pulled off onto the side of the freeway.

Her heart was pounding in her chest like a base drum. Her dark blue eyes were wide, staring back at her in the rearview mirror. Oh shit, Bella. What did you just do?

Chapter 2

Vincent Bellucci or least that’s what he was going by these days watched as people hurried inside his florist shop. They weren’t there to buy anything. They were watching people argue on the street in front of his shop .

His twin sister Chessie had to elbow her way through the crowd at the front when she entered. You should charge for tickets, she said gesturing to the looky lous.

No shit. What’s wrong with these people?

Some biker and biker chick are having an argument outside. They’re not even throwing punches. I don’t get what all the fuss is about, Chessie said. But you better clear it up before we go to lunch. Your cashier Garth can’t handle this crowd without you.

Chessie smiled when he groaned. You’re loving this aren’t you?

Yeah. She grinned, her aqua blue eyes that were identical to his were smiling too. You want me to back you up?

Stay inside. He pointed at her so she’d take him seriously. I’ll tell your husband on you if you don’t.

Chessie continued smiling. Greg is my fiancée, not my husband and he won’t be surprised.

Just stay inside.

Fine.

Vince started toward the crowd. He’d be damned if he had to fight his way through his own shop. Move out of the way or get the hell out, he said raising his voice. People moved out of his way, some watching him eagerly, others warily.

You people need to find something better to do with your lives, he said shaking his head. Vince exited the store with his water can still in his hand.

You’re my dad! Are fucking kidding me?

Chrissy, baby. I’m sorry. Okay? I’ll make it up to you, the male biker said to the young female blonde. Her face was tear stained and she was shaking with rage.

You got me kicked out of my apartment. You stole all my money, and you’re taking off leaving me homeless. How the fuck are you going to make it up to me? You can’t. Don’t you get that?

The biker that Vince now recognized as Aaron Thack, a biker Vince had crossed paths with once before, got on his bike. You’ll land on your feet, Aaron said to his daughter. You always do.

If Aaron had been Chrissy’s boyfriend, Vince would have simply taken the money back from Aaron and given it to the young lady. In his experience, however, the daughter didn’t take it well when one inflicted pain upon the father, no matter how much he had it coming.

Aaron started the bike and didn’t look back as he drove away.

Chrissy wiped her tears but wasn’t falling apart, which Vince was grateful for because he didn’t like to see a woman cry. Especially ones still not old enough to be called a woman yet.

You alright, kid? he asked tipping the watering can down to water the marigolds out front.

What’s it to you? Chrissy asked turning her red rimmed blue eyes. She was glaring and her shoulders were raised.

Vince shrugged. I hear you don’t have money or a place to live.

Her hands fisted at her sides. Fuck off, pervert.

Vince smiled because he was proud of her for having a backbone, she needed one for the path she’d been walking.

You fuck off, Vince said still smiling. I was just going to offer you a job here at my shop. I need someone who wants the job. Sounds like you need it.

She looked at the flowers he was watering and then at the sign over the door. Vinny’s Flower Shop? Who are you? Vinny?

That depends. If you’re taking the job, I’m Mr. Bellucci. If you aren’t taking the job than what does it matter?

I’m not a kid. I’m nineteen, she said clenching her jaw. She was as thin as a rail. He’d have guessed sixteen. Her long blonde hair was frizzy and the makeup she was wearing was smeared down her face. I would just water flowers? she asked when he didn’t say anything.

Vince shook his head. You’d cover the register, help customers. Paperwork shit that I don’t want to do. Stuff like that.

I have a knife. If you try to attack me, I’ll use it.

Her knees were shaking. Recognizing her fear for what it was, he ignored her accusation of impropriety and went on. I don’t want some little girl. I get plenty that are willing and that’s the way I like them.

You know, Chessie said stepping out of the shop. All these nosy people are still listening, Vin. Chessie laughed shaking her head.

You fuckers better be buying flowers in there, Vince said turning back toward the front window.

Watch your mouth in front of her, Chessie scolded him. He’s not gonna hurt you, hun, Chessie said to Chrissy. He’ll be hell to work for but he’s not going to lay a hand on you.

Chrissy had her arms folded. Her eyes darted between Vince and Chessie. Okay. I’ll take the job.

Good. You can sleep on the couch in the office, Vince said.

What? Chessie glared at him with her hand on her hip.

Vince nodded. That’s what I said, Chessie. You think I should take her home? Do you think Victor would like that? he asked referring to their FBI handler.

That’s more than generous. I don’t mind taking the couch here. I’d rather be on my own, Chrissy said.

See, Vince said pointing at Chrissy. Water the flowers here and then get inside and sell the tulips. It’s like they’re cemented in the fuckin’ vase.

Chessie walked past him stopping in front of Chrissy.

Oh shit, she’s going to adopt her.

Have you eaten lunch? Chessie asked her.

Yes, I’m fine. Really. But thank you. Chrissy avoided Chessie and took the watering can from Vince. Her fingers were like ice against his skin.

Aw shit.

Just come with us. I won’t be able to eat if you don’t and I’m hungry.

Chrissy’s thin brows drew together. What? I don’t need your charity.

It’ll come out of your first paycheck, you little shit, Vince said. What do I look like a fuckin’ saint?

No one’s claiming that, Chessie said with her smartass smirk. Come on, Chrissy. When Chrissy didn’t budge Chessie added, Don’t make me eat alone with my hard headed brother.

Vince left Chessie to talk Chrissy into joining them. He went back inside where the crowd of onlookers quickly dispersed. Garth, make sure you ring up all these people.

Yes, boss, Garth answered, his long brown hair falling forward in his face as he nodded.

Vince hung up his green apron and put on his suit jacket. Hiring Chrissy was a good idea. If she worked out he’d add to the staff and eventually he’d only be stopping by to add a fresh rose to his lapel.

He called William, a close friend who he was sure had his thumb on Aaron. Hey, William, I got a favor to ask, Vince stated when William answered his phone.

What is it, Vin?

You got Aaron Thack the biker in your pocket right?

William didn’t answer right away. We have an understanding. Which translated to William had put the fear of God into Aaron.

Good. Can you give him a call and tell him he needs to mail his daughter two grand. Give him the address to my shop.

Alright. William exhaled into the mouthpiece. Please don’t tell me you’ve taken that teenage girl to your bed.

Fuck you, asshole. Of course not.

Good. Are you going to Penny’s? William asked with a smile in his voice.

Vince crossed through the store holding his phone to his ear. Yeah.

Keep an eye on Eileen. She’s due any second.

Will do. Vince closed his phone and hopped into the passenger seat since Chessie was already behind the wheel. Chrissy was quiet for the short drive over. Vince was glad she wasn’t one of those yappy teens who never shut up.

When they pulled up in the parking lot he saw her.

Bella.

She was dabbing her pink cheeks with a tissue. Her beautiful breasts were rising with her deliberately slow inhale. She was wearing a nude pencil skirt and white blouse. Her fire red hair was down in long ringlets, and her red heels put her gorgeous legs on display.

He got out and closed the door. He crossed the parking lot and closed the space between them. Bella looked at him with alarm on her face until she recognized him.

What reason does Bella have to be afraid?

Afternoon, Bella, he said. You look a little stressed. Anything I can do to help?

Her pink cheeks got a little pinker. Her blouse tightened for an instant over her full round breasts as she inhaled again. I’m fine. Just meeting Eileen. Thank you.

Why don’t we make it a party and all of us eat together? Vince asked as Chessie and Chrissy caught up.

Vince, we shouldn’t barge in on her lunch, Chessie said poking him in the upper arm.

No, I’m sure Eileen will be glad for the extra company, Bella said with a friendly smile for Chessie.

Vince opened the door to Penny’s for the three women to enter. He was pleased Bella was the last one through because then he got the pleasure of walking behind her and enjoying the view of the natural sway of her hips.

Bella caught his eye from the start and his interest in her only grew. Truth be told he’d wanted her while her husband Brick was alive and now with him six months gone, Vince still wanted Bella.

Eileen waved at them as they approached the table, Dusty was chatting with Eileen and smiled at them too. I’ve got two orders of my wife’s succulent BBQ chicken coming up, what can I get for the rest of you? Vince pulled up a chair from an empty table and set it next to Bella.

Unfortunetly, Chessie took that seat.

Cockblocked again. Dammit, Chessie.

He was stuck sitting next to Chrissy and across from Eileen. No matter, he still had a great view.

We’ll have the same, Dusty. My mouth is already watering smelling that chicken, Chessie said ordering for them.

Mine too. Dusty grinned his white teeth a stark contrast to his dark chocolate skin. I’ll go put the order in.

Chrissy sat slumped in the chair next to him as if trying to be invisible at the table. Of course sitting in this particular group of women she wasn’t going to get away with disappearing.

Who is this gorgeous young woman? Eileen asked smiling that enchanting smile that put almost everyone at ease.

My name’s Christina. I just work for Mr. Bellucci, she answered with her arms folded. Vince noticed she was keeping her face down barely looking at Eileen.

Bella’s observative eyes ran over Chrissy and then shot over to Vince. She raised her brows at him but didn’t say anything. Vince tightened his jaw.

If one more person accuses me of wanting to seduce this little girl I’m going to lose my shit.

That’s right, Chrissy works for me, Vince said leaning forward, challenging Bella to say something.

That’s wonderful, Eileen said. Vince needs some help in that store, and I’m sure you’re just the woman for the job.

Bella looks to Chrissy. You let me know if he gets out of line.

Are you going to put me in my place? Vince asked with a wreckless grin.

Bella turned that lovely shade of pink again, but her sapphire blue eyes were unwavering from his. Of course. She doesn’t need to hear a bunch of filthy language in the workplace. I hope you’re watching your mouth.

She’s worried about my bad language?

Yes, ma’am, Vince replies, his anger instantly diffused. His own sister had warned him off Chrissy but Bella already knew he wouldn’t go there. That insight made him very happy.

You’re William Parker’s wife, aren’t you? Chrissy asked Eileen.

Yes, I am, Eileen answered.

Chrissy nodded. Vince knew she was connecting the dots to her father’s relationship with William. He watched as Chrissy seemed to sink further back in her chair.

Yep, Aaron warned her away from William.

Eileen is one of the nicest women you can meet. As long as you treat her with respect you’ll be just fine, Vince informed her.

Chrissy looked up at him and gave a jerky nod.

Oh hell, do I need to kick William in the balls? Why is she afraid of me? Eileen asked smacking the table with her palm. She closed her eyes and put her hand over her stomach. Oh boy, I think I’m having twins.

Bella rubbed Eileen’s shoulder. You’re not. You already had the doctor check. I can’t believe you don’t want to know the sex. I’m dying to know.

Me too. Vince was grateful for the subject change.

Me too, Chessie and Eileen said at the same time.

Dusty approached with a tray and his customary big smile. Here we are, he said putting the first plate down in front of Eileen. He served Chrissy and Chessie as well. I’ll be right back with the rest.

I’ll help. Vince stood and followed Dusty back to the kitchen.

Penny was singing while she cooked and the cooking staff was working like clockwork. Penny squealed a happy sound when she saw Vince, and she came around the pickup island to give him a hug. You are feeling awful thin, Vince. I’ll send you out some of my peach cobbler. Penny poked him in the ribs.

Few people liked Vince outright, but Penny did and he adored her and Dusty for their instant friendship. That’s what I was hoping for. Vince smiled.

I got these, you two catch up, Dusty interrupted and left with the tray of food.

How are ya? Penny asked, her mocha cream skin as radiant as her beautiful smile. She wore her chef hat like a badge of honor and with the way her food tasted, she should. You know this place has been buzzing with gossip about you. Not that I was participating.

Is that right?

Well, only just. Did you take in Aaron’s girl?