Rain Down

By S.L. Stacker

Jules Avery and Gavin Boyd have been together for five years, but after a proposal-gone-wrong, Jules sees the real side of Gavin…a side she never wants to see again.

Gavin informs Jules he’s leaving the country for a while, and later that day she learns of her parents’ murders. Is it coincidence these things happened on the same day?

Reed Davison, her longtime friend, learns of her loss, and he steps in and assumes the role of protector, friend, and hopeful lover. Having been infatuated with her since high school, he would like nothing more than to make Jules his, but for the time being, he’s content with his self-imposed role in her life.

As Jules and Reed grow closer, their relationship begins to flourish. It isn’t long before he realizes she is the one for him, and he plans to make her his in a more permanent way. On the evening he plans to propose, events unfold—events that force Jules to evaluate her life.

Will she allow the life she has built with Reed to crumble around her?

• Language: English
• Publisher: S.L. Stacker
• Release date: Oct 1, 2016
• ISBN: 9781537354354

Book preview

Chapter One

JULES AVERY TOSSED her bag onto the passenger seat of her Jeep before climbing inside. She had spent the week working at one of her formal wear boutiques, and in a few short hours, she’d be home for two glorious weeks before she had to leave again. Adjusting the rearview mirror, she smoothed down the dark, flyaway hairs that escaped her ponytail sometime over the course of the day. It would’ve been nice to go home and freshen up before dinner tonight, but she’d stayed at the store for too long. It was the end of the month which meant it was inventory time. Yes, her employees could have counted the stock, but it was her store, and she’d wanted to ensure she didn’t overwork them. Yet, because of her decision, she had just enough time to make it to her parents’ house for dinner.

Robert and Estelle Avery, her parents, had begun this weekly dinner tradition when she’d started college. Despite living in the same town where she’d attended college, Jules had chosen to live in the dorm rooms. She loved her parents, but they were sometimes overbearing. She saw living on campus as her way to a little freedom. Her Mom and Dad agreed to it under one condition; Jules had to attend a weekly family dinner. At that point in her life, she’d have agreed to almost anything to have a little freedom of her own. She spent every Friday evening for the next four years with her Mom and Dad eating and sharing what had gone on with her each week. After she’d graduated college, the dinners continued, but the main difference was she wanted to attend them.

With a final glance in the mirror, Jules pulled her Jeep out onto the highway and began the long drive home as her mind drifted to tonight’s dinner. It would be a little different than usual. Instead of it being the three of them, there would be three extra people. Who were these mystery people? She had no clue. Despite her efforts to convince her parents to tell her, she was as much in the dark now as she had been earlier in the week when they announced there would be guests.

No matter how things went tonight, at least she could look forward to seeing her boyfriend, Gavin, afterward. When she’d spoken with him earlier in the day, he’d been in a wonderful mood. His boss had given him the afternoon off, and he said he was using the time to plan something special for her. She loved these days and moods because she was always at ease. Yet, on the days he stressed over work, he sometimes took his frustrations out on her by demeaning or belittling her. Those days were not enjoyable. However, she had grown to know him well, and she avoided him as often as possible when his tone of voice was off.

To help keep her mind from thinking too much about the evening’s events, she played her latest audio book purchase. When the narrator’s voice sounded through the speakers, she relaxed into her seat and concentrated on the road ahead. She hoped the next few hours would pass quickly.

***

Gavin stood in his small living room and surveyed his masterpiece. He’d draped the dark walnut coffee table with a white tablecloth, and atop were a handful of scented candles. Two dinnerware settings were on either side. It was not his ideal place for dinner, but his girl preferred dinner like this versus sitting at a dining table.

Glancing at his watch, he realized she’d be here at any moment, and he still had to put the finishing touches on the potatoes. Cursing aloud, he darted into the attached kitchen to finish their meal. Pulling the potatoes from the oven, he sprinkled parsley and fresh shredded cheese on top. When he finished, he covered the glass pan with foil.

As he grabbed two wine glasses from the cabinet, a knock sounded from the front door. He then heard it open.

Gavin, are you home? his girl called out.

I’m in the kitchen, he answered, grabbing the wine opener from the utensil drawer and opening a bottle of wine he’d purchased earlier. As he began to pour, two slender arms slid around his waist, and a pair of breasts flattened against his back.

I missed you, she cooed as her sweet perfume wafted around him. His favorite.

He stopped pouring and set the bottle on the countertop. Turning into her embrace, he slid his arms around her. I missed you, too, he said before his lips pressed against hers for a brief kiss. You being gone for a week put a damper on our sex life. I’ve had to please myself several times, and we both know how grouchy that makes me.

I’m sorry, she said, a mischievous smile splayed across her face. What can I do to make it up to you? She looked up at him through her dark lashes.

You on your knees would be a great start. He moved his hands to her shoulders and pushed down.

Once she was on the floor, her hands slid over his hard cock before they fumbled with his belt. Undone, she popped the button and slid the zipper down. Grabbing each side of his pants, she tugged until they loosened enough to fall to his feet. His erection throbbed as her hand caressed him over his boxer briefs. He needed this…needed to feel her around him.

Sliding his fingers beneath the elastic waistband, he pushed the cotton material down until they joined his pants around his ankles. Now that he was free, she wasted no time before her tongue teased his tip. Throwing his head back, he moaned. He didn’t care if he came before her. He’d take care of her later.

As she took his length into her mouth, her tongue sliding over the shaft, he fisted his hands into her curly hair. Holding her close to him, he thrust forward. I love fucking your mouth, Jackie. It’s not something Jules will allow me to do, he looked down at her, her eyes meeting his. She hated when he spoke of Jules, but frankly, he didn’t give a fuck. Jules was the type of girl you married, and it was an added bonus that her family was rich. Jackie, well, she was the kind you had fun with.

As his thrusting picked up pace, he felt the pressure in his cock build. A few more times was all he’d need before he lost his load. I’m going to come. You know the rules. No spitting it out, he said, pushing himself into her mouth one final time before exploding inside her warm mouth. He held her head in place until he’d released the last of himself down her throat. When he finished, he pulled out and tugged his briefs and pants back up.

As he fastened his belt, Jackie stood and wiped her mouth with the back of her hand before she moved forward to kiss him.

No. Go brush your teeth first. I don’t want to taste myself on you.

Gavin, you make me do it all the time. One kiss won’t hurt you.

I said no. If you want to come later, you’ll do as I say. Do you understand?

Yeah. She turned, her blonde curls bouncing as she left the kitchen.

Glancing at his watch, he realized he and Jackie had enough time for dinner and a round of sex before he had to be at Jules’ parents’ house for dinner. He’d have to keep his meal here light. Tonight he planned on surprising Jules with a promise of his commitment to her.

Returning his attention to the discarded wine bottle, he finished filling their glasses. Setting them on the counter, he pulled the chicken from the oven and placed the pan atop the stove beside the potatoes.

Mmm. It smells wonderful in here, Jackie said, announcing her return.

I hope you’re hungry. I have plans for later, and I have to keep it light.

Actually, I do, too. I’m having dinner with Robert and Estelle this evening.

Whipping his head toward her, he asked, Why are you having dinner with them?

Estelle called me earlier in the week and asked if I’d like to have dinner with them tonight. It seems they have some surprise planned for Jules, and they thought her best friend should be there. I couldn’t tell them no.

Shit! He ran his fingers through his blond hair.

What’s wrong, baby? she asked and stepped next to him, rubbing her small hand up and down his arm.

The surprise is me. I’m planning on asking Jules for a larger commitment tonight.

You’re asking her to marry you? she asked, her voice trembling.

Fuck no! I’m going to ask her to buy a house with me. I’m tired of this dump, and I don’t have money to buy a new house. Her business is doing well, and if her parents ever die, she’ll inherit a fortune. Then I’ll be set for life.

Jackie looked at him like she couldn’t believe what she’d heard. "What about us? Will we keep seeing each other?"

Taking her face between his hands, he caressed her cheeks with his thumbs. Baby, I’m not giving you up. Your mouth and tight little pussy are enough reason to keep you around. Like I said, I’m not asking her to marry me. As long as I haven’t put a ring on it, I’m free to do what I want and who I want.

I don’t think she’d agree.

Who cares what she thinks.

You’ll care if she ever finds out.

And she won’t because if you say anything, you know the consequences, he threatened.

"I know, Gavin. You know; I’ve suddenly lost my appetite. I’m going home to get ready for tonight. I need time to prepare my I’m surprised and so excited for you face."

As she turned away from him, he seized her arm, his fingers digging into her exposed flesh.

Gavin, you’re hurting me. She turned and faced him.

Not a word, Jackie. You better be the best damned friend she has, and your excitement better be believable. Do you understand me?

As tears pooled in her eyes, she nodded.

Good girl. Now, get the fuck out of here. I need to clean this shit up.

Jackie raced from the room. Her sobs filled the confined space. Gavin couldn’t help but laugh as he grabbed the chicken and emptied it into the trash. Had she thought she stood a chance with him? If so, she was fucking delusional. There’s no way he’d give up Jules for a piece of pussy. It didn’t matter how good Jackie could suck cock; his future with Jules ensured his early retirement.

***

As Jackie ran from Gavin’s apartment, tears flowed down her cheeks. Why did she continue to torment herself by seeing that asshole? It was the one question in which she didn’t have a definite answer. She cared for the man, and despite knowing their relationship wouldn’t amount to anything more than what it was, she couldn’t help but hope.

Approaching her car, she moved her hand from her arm where Gavin had grabbed her. He wasn’t physically abusive often, but when he was, it scared her. That should be reason enough to end things with him, but she couldn’t bring herself to follow through because when he was sweet, he made her feel like an angel

Besides, it wasn’t like he’d ever hit her. It was more along the lines of grabbing her arms or being verbally abusive. She’d even provoked it a few times. Sometimes she thought she deserved his treatment because of what she was doing to her friend.

She and Jules had met during their first year of college. They’d shared a dorm room together, and they’d become fast friends. Jules had been the serious and studious type where Jackie had been more of the party girl. The opposites attract theory had been proven with their friendship.

The only problem she’d ever had with Jules was she always attracted the guys Jackie liked, but she’d never spoken up and told Jules. Instead, she would find the next available guy and live it up until they tired of her. When that happened, she’d move on to the next guy.

After Jules and Gavin began dating, Jules had begged her to meet him. Reluctantly, Jackie had agreed. It was the last thing she wanted to do, but she’d done it for her friend. When she met them that night for drinks, she’d felt an instant attraction to him, and she thought he had felt something for her, too. The only thing that ever resulted from the attraction was a little flirting from both of them.

Two years ago was when it all changed. Jules was out of town working for the week, and Jackie had gone out for dinner. When she’d walked into the restaurant, she happened to see Gavin standing to the side. When she spoke with him, she learned he was waiting for a table. She asked him to join her, and things progressed from there. They’d spent the evening talking, laughing, and flirting. With the help of a lot of liquid courage, she excused herself from the table but not before she hinted she’d be waiting for him in the restroom. To her surprise, he had taken her up on her salacious offer. The restaurant was nearly empty with only a few full tables remaining. The staff had been bussing tables and resetting the flatware for the next day; so they were in zero danger of being caught.

Once they were in the bathroom, they tore each other’s clothes off in a race to sate their mutual lust. Gavin had pressed her against the wall with her skirt bunched around her waist and ripped her panties from her body. It had been quick, meaningless, and exactly what each of them needed.

When they returned to the table, Gavin paid the bill. As they made the short walk to her car, he kept his distance and told her what they’d done should have never happened. It was then each of them vowed they’d keep the hook-up a secret, and it wouldn’t happen again.

They’d done great keeping the promise until a few months later. Jackie had sold a house and was looking for Jules so they could celebrate. After calling her cell phone several times, she decided she’d stop by Jules’ house. When she arrived, Jules wasn’t home. So, she’d called her friend again, ending with the same result as before. Finally, Jackie assumed Jules must’ve been at Gavin’s. She made the drive over there, and that’s when she learned Jules was out of town for work.

Gavin must have seen the disappointment she felt because he asked her what was wrong. After she explained things to him, he’d invited her in for a celebratory drink. Well, one drink led to several bottles, and the next thing she knew, she and Gavin were going at it on his couch…then his kitchen table and finally, the bed. From there, they saw each other more often until they spent every night together when Jules traveled for business. When she was home, they’d sneak in visits whenever time allowed.

Getting into her car, she slammed the door and wiped her eyes. Yes, she’d brought this on herself. If she’d been a better friend to Jules, none of this would have happened. She grabbed her cell phone from her purse and started to dial Jules’ parents so she could cancel but at the last second decided against it. Watching Gavin commit to her friend would break her heart, but at least she’d be able to see him again. Maybe, if she played her cards right, they could even sneak away for a quickie somewhere.

Smiling, she placed the car in drive and made her journey home. The thought of getting it on with Gavin in Jules’ parents’ house excited her, and she wanted to make sure she looked her best tonight. She needed to look exceptionally good to make Gavin want her enough to fuck her with everyone else around.

Chapter Two

MOM? DAD? JULES CALLED, closing the large mahogany door behind her. She toed off her shoes and left them by the door. Is anyone home?

Sweetheart? You’re here! Estelle exclaimed, her head popped through the doorway of her Dad’s office. Jules made her way to her mother and hugged her.

When she pulled away, she asked, Aren’t we having dinner? Jules peeked around the corner to see her Dad sitting behind his desk. Hi, Dad. She waved.

Hi, Punkin. I’ll be out in a few minutes.

She nodded and turned her attention back to her mother who answered, Yes, but your Dad and I knew you’d struggle to make it in time, so, we pushed dinner out two hours. We wanted to spend time with you before everyone arrived.

"I wish you’d tell me what’s going on, but I know that won’t happen. She laughed and then noticed her Mom’s raven hair had been cut into a modern bob. Your hair looks fantastic. When’d you get it cut?"

A few days ago. I hated always wearing it pulled back. I wanted something cute and trendy. She linked her arm through her daughter’s and led her to the kitchen.

It looks great on you. Very stylish, and I assume it’s easier to manage? she asked

"Yes, it’s much easier. I can’t believe I held onto the long hair for so long, but I guess I was trying to hold onto my youth."

Mom, you aren’t old.

I’m no longer young.

Mom, you’re only as old as you feel. Wear your hair however you like it and keep wearing those cute clothes. I love your top. Where’d you buy it?

Her eyes lit up and she smiled. Goodwill. I went in looking for a small table for the laundry room but came out with blouses instead.

I bet Dad loved that. Jules giggled. Her parents owned their own successful distribution business, and over the years, they’d turned it into a multi-million-dollar company. However, by looking at their home, the average person would have never guessed they were wealthy. For as long as she could remember, her Dad had always been a thrifty person. He’d taken pride in teaching Jules the same values. As a little girl, he’d often take her thrift store shopping and to yard sales. Each time, he’d stress how important it was to work hard and save money where you could. He’d also told her it didn’t matter how much money you had because you couldn’t take it with you when you died, and it didn’t make you better than anyone else.

Jules questioned this practice as a child and teenager. She couldn’t comprehend why he’d want to buy used stuff and live in a smaller home. Yet, as she’d gotten older, she realized it was important to save money and not boast about material possessions. It was why she ran her businesses the way she did.

Yes, he loved it, Estelle said and laughed.

Who loved what? Robert asked, joining them in the kitchen and hugging Jules.

Mom was just telling me about her thrift store purchases.

It took a few years to convince her to try it, but I’m afraid I created a monster. He laughed, looking at his wife. The merriment and love in his eyes would have been obvious to anyone. Jules couldn’t help but smile.

Yes, it took him a few years to convert me, but he did.

"Thank you for instilling values in me. It’s because of the lessons you taught me throughout my life that I’ve been able to build a profitable business. It may not be as successful as yours, but I can pay my employees well and still have money to donate to the shelter.

Your Mom and I are proud of you, Jules. God blessed us when he gave you to us. When I looked at your tiny body on the day your Mom had you, I never imagined what a loving and successful woman you’d become.

Dad, stop. You’ll make me cry.

Sweetheart, it’s a compliment, and we want to make sure you know we’re proud of you, Estelle said.

Thank you. I love both of you.

We love you, too, her parents answered together.

Have you spoken with Gavin today? I talked with Reed earlier, and he said Gavin would deliver some documents before the close of business. I haven’t seen him, yet. Robert glanced at his cell phone.

I spoke with him around mid-day. He said Reed had given him the rest of the day off. Do you want me to call him?

No, but he’s lucky I don’t need the documents today. I would’ve liked a little extra time to review them. Anyway, this isn’t a business meeting. It’s dinner. I’ll grab the steaks and do a little grilling. You ladies have fun. He winked at Jules and pinched Estelle’s butt as he left the kitchen.

Dad, you forgot the steaks, Jules called out.

They’re in the garage fridge, he shouted before the door slammed.

That man is my life, Estelle said and laughed. Sweetheart, why don’t you go into the family room and rest while I finish the sides. I’ll be in to join you when I’m through.

I can help you, Mom. Jules stood and rounded the island.

Waving her hands, Estelle answered, Go. I’ve got this. I have a few things I need to do that you can’t see.

Shaking her head, Jules said, Okay. If you need me, yell at me. She exited the kitchen and made her way to the family room.

As she stretched out on the couch, the doorbell rang.

I’ll answer it, she called out as she stood. A few seconds later, she pulled the door open, pleased to see Reed Davison standing there. Hi! Come in. She stood aside as he brushed by her. In that moment, she couldn’t help notice how he looked like the young teenager she’d gone to high school with…the same guy she’d crushed on her freshman and sophomore years.

After he was inside, she closed the door and turned her attention to him. How are you? I haven’t seen you in a few weeks. She stepped forward and hugged him.

I’m doing well. I’ve been traveling a lot lately. In fact, my plane landed about an hour ago. I came here straight from the airport. He returned her hug and kissed her cheek.

Are you here to see Dad? He’s out back grilling.

I’ll speak to him later, but I’m here for dinner. Your Mom called earlier in the week and invited me.

Oh. It surprised her they’d invited him. I’m still not sure what’s going on. They won’t tell me anything. She motioned for him to follow her as she made her way back to the family room. Sinking onto the couch, she patted the cushion next to her.

As he sat next to her, he said, Don’t expect me to tell you anything. I know nothing other than we’re having dinner.

Turning to face him, she dismissed his denial. There’s no way her Mom wouldn’t have told him what was going on. So, what have you been doing besides working?

Work is my life. You know how I am. When I’m not traveling, I’m pulling long hours at the office.

Yeah, you should relax a little, and you need to allow Gavin time off from time to time when I’m in town. It seems he always has partial days when I’m away.

Sorry about that. It’s nothing against you. It seems to happen that way.

Oh, I know. I’m just joking with you.

The next time I give him time off, I’ll call you and make sure you’re in town. Is that better? He patted her leg and winked at her.

Thank you.

You know I’d do anything for you, Sweetness.

I know. I appreciate everything you do for my Dad and Gavin. You’re a great man, Reed.

Don’t tell anyone. I don’t want you to ruin my reputation. He laughed.

Your secret’s safe with me. She eyed his face and asked, When did you grow a beard?

He rubbed his chin between his fingers. "I’d like to say I wanted a change, but I’ve been lazy. Late hours and early mornings mean I skimp on a few things. It appears my