Destiny Fulfilled

By Rita Durrett

Jade Abbott is in love with Rayel Vieux. She trusts him and his parents with her life, until Foust Warrant tries to convince her she must trust him or risk death. Earth is in grave danger, in part because Jade lives on the planet. She knows her destiny is to leave her adoptive parents and go to Corasias to save the planet from the evil of the Malabar, but does she leave with Rayel, or Foust? Her heart pleads one case, her mind the other. The decision she makes will not only have an impact on her, but also on the people of two worlds.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Rita Durrett
• Release date: Jan 23, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370257706

Rita Durrett

Rita Durrett has written four Young Adult and three Women's novels as well as dozens of short stories and novellas. She has published one award-winning Children’s story.Over 40 years in the field of education have given Mrs. Durrett insight and knowledge about teenagers, their inner turmoil, and resilient nature. Her mid-west living and frequent cruise trips to the Caribbean provide the perfect background for suspense, adventure, and romance in her writing.Visit her website at www.ritadurrett.com.

Book preview

Chapter 1

I watched from my side window as Earth shrank to nothing more than a pinpoint of light. My eyes scanned the face of the man next to me as he concentrated on guiding our small space ship. I searched for something, anything to reassure me I wasn't being kidnapped. His stoic countenance revealed nothing.

Aren't you going to contact your family? I asked. We're a long way from home. Surely we are out of Earth's atmosphere by now. I couldn't resist moving from my co-pilot chair to stand near a rear portal. We were surrounded by black, filled with tiny diamond-like specks of white, everywhere the eye looked.

Foust didn't answer immediately, and that gave me a reason to be concerned. I believed him, and even more important, I trusted him. He'd saved my life. I helped him get away from the command center to allow him to take the airship out of the Earth's gravitational pull and contact his family. So why were we still speeding away from home?

Jade.

I felt Foust's hand on the small of my back. Oh! You surprised me. He had left the controls and stood very close. I turned and found myself looking up into his eyes.

Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you. He applied pressure to my back, pushed me into his chest, leaned down, and kissed my cheek.

My face burned. I had instinctively placed my hands on his chest as a barrier between us. Now I gently pushed us apart. Foust, not so close.

He took a step back but didn't remove his hand. Instead, he guided me to my chair. Let's sit and talk. I need to keep an eye on our course.

Aren't you going to contact your family? I asked, too upset to sit.

He flipped several levers, put on an earpiece of sorts, and began speaking. I knew he wasn't talking to me, even though I didn't know who he contacted. He gave me a reassuring smile.

Trone five, one, three. He waited for a reply. I heard static, but no voices.

Trone five, one, three. Still nothing.

Foust sat up straighter in his chair, hand on the ear piece. I could hear an anxious female voice.

Yes, Mom, it's me. I'm fine. How are things there?

He sighed; his shoulders slumped. I was afraid of that. I'm on my way home. He glanced at me. Bringing my future wife.

I know the shock I felt must have registered on my face because Foust laughed a hearty laugh.

He ignored me and continued his conversation. Nothing, Mom, something funny happened here. Seriously, she's beautiful, intelligent, and sweet. You will love her. Is Dad there? Let me talk to him.

Foust's part of the conversation ceased, and I could hear a man's voice heatedly tell him about something.

Yes, Sir. I understand. I will, thanks.

Foust took the ear clip off and laid it on the console. I couldn't read the look on his face as he turned toward me. What did you mean you were bringing your future wife? What happened to 'I need to get out of Earth's atmosphere to contact my family'? Was the plan all along to kidnap me? I knew I was ranting, but I couldn't slow down. The questions kept falling out of my mouth as soon as I thought of them.

Jade, hold up. Stop. Let me say something. He stood and placed a hand on each of my upper arms.

I shook his hands loose and walked away. "How could you do that?'

Jade, listen, please.

My heart pounded, but I made myself stand still and listen.

I wasn't serious, or at least not about the 'bringing you home with me' part. I was teasing my mom. She is always asking me when I'm going to bring a girl home for her to meet. I couldn't resist.

As he finished speaking, he slowly reached his hand out and placed it on my arm, cautiously, as if to see my reaction.

My reaction was mild compared to what I was feeling. I kept pressing him for an explanation. You were just going to contact them, not go home?

Jade, I promise it was never my intention to go home. I suspected, just as my dad said, that it isn't safe for me, and certainly not you, to go there. The military thinks I'm a traitor. The Malabar have orders to kill me if I show back up at the mothership or planet Glieseions.

What are you going to do?

Go back to Earth, of course. I was going back, anyway, but hoped I'd be able to make plans to return to my job. Obviously, those plans are out of the question. He pulled me closer to him and wrapped his other arm around my shoulders. I couldn't resist leaning on his chest. I needed the comfort. My legs felt weak.

Foust, I'm sorry things turned out like they did. You deserve better.

He released his hug and took hold of my hands. Thanks for the thought. By the way, I meant what I said. You are great. I care for you a lot.

Thank you. You are really sweet. I care for you, also, but you must know that Rayel holds a big place in my heart.

He grinned. You had to bring up that guy.

I smiled back. He's pretty important to me.

Jade, I'm aware of that. All I'm asking is for you to give me a chance. Until Rayel asks you to marry him, and you accept, keep an open mind. I am going to do my darnedest to convince you I'm the best man for you.

I don't know what to say. I'm not going to tell you to stay away from me, but please don't embarrass me or hurt Rayel.

Oh, I wouldn't do that. I care too much for you to put you in that situation. He squeezed my hand, let go, and led me to our seats.

Foust turned his concentration back to the control panel. Looking out the front of the craft, I couldn't tell we made a course change, but I knew we turned because he turned the control arm.

Are we headed to Earth?

He grinned broadly. Yes, Ma'am, Earth will soon be visible in front of you. I've already put in the co-ordinates for Boomer Lake in Stillwater, Oklahoma.

I watched intently for the sphere that was my home planet to appear. Not that I didn't believe him, but he'd sure been talking nonsense lately. I wondered how Rayel would take this new turn of events. As a matter of fact, I wasn't sure how I was going to handle having two guys romantically interested in me. Getting back to Earth might prove to be exciting in more ways than one.

Chapter 2

Foust lowered the ramp and indicated I should lead the way. The hot Oklahoma sun beat down on my head. I shaded my eyes from the bright rays as I watched the command center jeep bounce its way toward us.

Looks like we've got a welcoming party, I commented more to myself than to my companion. Surely they were aware we took the Pathfinder and didn't need a ride.

Foust gave me a sly smile before answering. I suspect a certain friend of yours is more worried about you being with me than us needing a ride.

I felt indignant. He trusts me.

But does he trust me? That's the question.

Foust got my best 'forget you' face for that comment, but I wondered if he might be right as the Jeep slid to a halt and Rayel jumped out of the driver's seat.

He didn't slow down as he strode in our direction. His face displayed an ominous scowl, and his clenched jaw didn't allow for his usual smile. What the heck do you think you two are doing? Jade, you scared the crap out of me--us.

Sorry. I had no idea you would be worried. We just went for a little flight so Foust could communicate with his family. There was no way I'd admit to the fact I had been worried at one point.

Rayel shook his head from side to side. The look I got from him shamed me into dropping my gaze, but I still needed to ask, So why did you come out here? You were aware we took the Pathfinder.

I didn't have a clue who would be on the ship or what kind of shape they'd be in. I can see you're fine. I'll go back to the command center. He immediately turned and walked straight back to the jeep, without another word to me.

I must admit that hurt. I didn't like the feeling. I wanted to hurry back to the command center and work things out with Rayel. Come on, Foust. Let's go.

He gave me a slight smile as he climbed in the rider's side of the jeep. He was angry, wasn't he?

Yep.

Sorry. I know you think that makes me happy, but it doesn't. I didn't intend for that to happen. I want you to like me for who I am. I want it to be a decision you make, not because of something I do. He took hold the roll bar on the jeep. Let's go. We have some explaining to do.

Rayel was already inside the building. The elevator seemed unusually slow. Finally, Foust and I stepped out to a crowd of faces.

My mom threw her arms around me and hugged so hard I could hardly breathe. Dad stood beside her.

Thank God you're safe, Jade! His words exploded in my ear.

I eased away from Mom and gave him a hug. Thanks, Dad. Glad to be back.

Dre`, Brock, and Orion gave hugs. Brock motioned for my friend, Kat, to join him. Look who I brought with me this morning.

Kat and I held each other in an embrace for several minutes before letting go. I was so glad to see her, considering it was a miracle Rayel, Foust, and I made it back. Where did Rayel go? I asked. Did you see him come in right before me?

Yes, I saw him. He resembled a thunder cloud. He didn't say a word to anyone and went straight to his desk, where he pretended to be very busy. Kat glanced over her shoulder, looking at Rayel's workstation.

I followed her gaze. He still sat there. Not once did he glance in my direction.

Rayel's mom, Laurenda, walked up and patted my shoulder. Don't mind him. He's a little bent out of shape because you were with Foust. He'll get over it.

My sigh sounded loud to my ears. I guess. I didn't mean to make him mad. Foust needed my help. He helped us, without even considering the effect his actions would have on his life. I didn't have a choice.

I agree, said Laurenda. Stop worrying and let's all go eat. I've got everything ready and waiting. There's plenty for everyone."

I decided to ignore Rayel. Being home was wonderful, and I wasn't going to let him put me in a funky mood because of his jealousy. Sounds like a good idea. I'm starved. Come on, guys, let's go eat.

I put my arm through Kat's and walked with her to Rayel's apartment. My family and friends followed. Rayel joined them, but he ignored me.

Breakfast was great. Everyone seemed to enjoy the company, including Foust. He entertained us by telling stories about life on Glieseions.

When everyone finished eating, Foust glanced around, stood up, and addressed the room of people. Please forgive me. It was thoughtless of me to practically kidnap Jade and disappear without telling someone. I had no intention of upsetting anyone. I wanted to talk to my parents and couldn't receive a signal from here. I took the ship out of Earth's atmosphere. I talked Jade into taking me to the airship and going with me. We planned to be back before breakfast.

I looked around the room. Rayel had joined his friends Dre`, Brock, and Orion. They sat in the living area, around the coffee table. Kat sat near Brock. She gave me a half smile and a little wave.

My conscience got the better of me. I decided I should say something, too. I'm sorry, also. It just didn't seem dangerous to me. I must admit I never gave thought to what everyone would think.

Dre` quipped, Don't worry, Jade, we know you were having a blond moment.

The room filled with laughter. Even Rayel smiled. I felt better. I loved having everything back to normal.

BzzzzBzzzBzzz. A metallic alarm sounded. Dane, Rayel, Dre`, Brock, and Orion were out the door by the time the buzzer quieted.

Chapter 3

Laurenda busied herself in the kitchen, while the rest of us stood around, uncertain as to what we should do.

What? Foust asked. The rest of us have to stay here? Is that because of me? I'd like to know what's going on.

Kat and I started stacking dishes, ignoring his question. I trusted him, but Rayel didn't, and he wouldn't want me bringing a Malabar soldier into the observation room, especially during a crisis.

Jade, Foust glared pointedly at me, why is there a Corasias command post here on Earth, and why are there two girls from Earth inside it?

I shrugged, at a loss as to what to tell him. As usual, I told as much of the truth as I thought I should. We only met these guys a couple of weeks ago.

I knew I could trust Kat to keep our secret, so I wasn't worried when she spoke up. We met them, were kidnapped by your guys, got rescued, and here we are. It's been crazy for the last few days!

I wasn't sure I could trust what Mom and Dad might say. I stared at Dad and gave him a little half-smile. I hoped he got my point. I felt relief when he put his arm around Mom's waist and walked her to the sofa.

Hmmm, Foust muttered. Interesting. I understand the Corasiasns might want an outpost on Earth, but I don't understand them having you two and your parents inside. We couldn't get away with that from our commander. I'm surprised Commander Dane allowed his soldiers to even associate with you, much less bring you here.

Laurenda, I made an effort to change the subject, why don't you go on to the observation room. We'll be fine here by ourselves.

Are you sure? I would like to find out what set off the alarm this time. I'll check it out and come back in a little bit to let you guys know. Help yourselves to anything you need in the kitchen. She scanned herself out and was gone before she finished her sentence.

Kat, Foust, and I joined my parents in the living area. We talked about life on Earth, weather, and ourselves. It was enjoyable time spent and passed quickly. Laurenda scanned herself back through the portal.

Kat saw her before I did and asked, What did you find out?

They are still checking on it. Everything's pretty quiet. Dane said he thought it was a spaceship, refueling in the ocean, Laurenda said as she joined us. Her face looked relaxed. I believed her story.

Jade, Honey, if it's that quiet, I think Mom and I would like to leave. We must show up for our jobs, or we're going to lose them. Dad grinned to indicate he was teasing about the jobs, but I knew he was serious about leaving.

Okay. I'll walk you out. Kat, would you please stay here and keep Foust company?

Sure. She grinned at Foust.

Yes, he teased, someone has to make sure I don't cause ... I mean get into trouble.

Laurenda, can you scan us out please? I asked.

At the wave of her hand over the sensor plate the door slid quietly open, and we progressed quickly through the maze of corridors.

Workers in the observation room concentrated on their computers. As far as I was aware, no one looked up to notice us passing. The huge monitor showed black space with sparkling planets. I couldn't see anything out of the ordinary.

I gave Mom and Dad a hug, and a promise to keep in touch, before depositing them safely on the elevator.

Where's your friend? Rayel's voice came from behind me.

Crap! I nearly jumped out of my skin! I exclaimed as I turned to face him. Kats with your mom. I knew exactly which friend he meant, but couldn't resist teasing him.

He scowled. It wasn't Kat I was referring to. Where's Foust?

I was so tired of seeing Rayel unhappy and having him angry with me. I wanted it to stop, so I put my arms around his neck and hugged him to me. He squeezed me back, and his head dropped down near mine. I breathed in deeply. His cologne smelled wonderful, and his touch felt divine. I turned my face toward his in the hopes of being kissed. He lifted his head and stepped away, letting go. His arms fell to his side. My heart ached.

What the heck, Rayel? My voice came out strained and louder than I intended.

Sorry, Princess. Not here where we can be seen. Remember, I'm not supposed to touch, much less kiss, royalty. Rayel's eyes turned to me, beseeching.

I couldn't be mad, but I was unhappy. So, let's go. Where are the guys? Let's all go to the mall.

Sounds like a plan. Find Kat; I'll locate the guys and meet you here in five minutes.

He started to leave, then glanced back over his shoulder. As far as I'm concerned you can leave Foust here.

Rayel!

He grinned. Just kidding. Bring our buddy.

Chapter 4

Our group didn't fit the small table, so the guys pulled over another one. Something was wrong. We were all together, at the mall, but it was still awkward, far from the normal I sought.

Was it something I said? quipped Foust. 'Cause you guys sure are a dull bunch.

Hey, I've got an idea. How about we go to the city, to the White-Water Park. What could be more fun than water, girls, and skimpy swimsuits? Dre` glanced around for agreement.

Kat vigorously nodded yes, and the rest of the guys started nodding their heads.

Orion spoke up first. I don't even have a suit. You guys probably don't either, and I know Foust doesn't.

I needed to comment. Guys, look around. We're at a mall. This is the perfect place for us to buy swimwear, but I don't have money.

Me either, Kat added.

Rayel took out his wallet and handed me some