Tragic Soul: Triple Threat Book 2

By Bella Jeanisse

A Rockstar Romance of a different kind.

Crystal Atkinson, bassist for Reckless, is very much in love. In her eyes, nothing could tear her and Paulie apart. Then they are given an opportunity that can change everything.

Paulie Capacette, rhythm guitarist, is sure he had met the one when he found Crystal. When the chance of a lifetime comes with strings, he is torn. It seems an impossible choice.

The band or love, how can they choose? Can they recover from either option? Or is this a tragic end?

Warning: For those 18+. May not suitable for all readers. Prepare for a dose of reality.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Bella Jeanisse
• Release date: Apr 1, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370410293

Bella Jeanisse

Server tech by day, author by night, mom and grandma all the time. I'm always striving for something more.

Book preview

PREFACE

I hope you are enjoying the series so far. Even though I was terrified at first, I am glad I was able to re-edit all of my books. I feel the new versions have more depth and read smoother. If you have an opinion either way, let me know. I’d love to hear from you. My social media links are located at the end of the book.

Tragic Soul came about because there was too much to Triple Threat’s back-story to fit in one book. This one bridges the gap between Reckless and Triple Threat. However, it does not end just before Triple Threat begins. Hopefully, you will recognize why I ended where I did. If not, just ask, and I’ll remind you who Crystal meets in the last chapter.

DEDICATION

Again, I’d like to thank all those who helped make this re-release possible. You would not believe how much time and effort was put into this project by me and many others. My family is glad it’s over. I’m sure my kids are sick of hearing, I’m almost done with this book, hang on. There is a light at the end of the tunnel finally!

Since this is set back a few years, I tried to keep to music from that era, but that never works. I’m quite obstinate. The usual influences were dominant: Avenged Sevenfold (I really wish I could thank these guys for real), Slipknot, Saliva, Papa Roach, Stone Sour, Seether, Three Days Grace, Metallica and Shinedown.

I have the best group of beta readers and an incredible team of assistants. Thanks to all of you. In no particular order: Paula, Geri, Patricia, Donna, Anita, Christa, Naiana, Stephanie, Margo, Traci, Jena, Sonia, Melissa, Sarah, Casey, Courtney.

Since I started this project, I have relied on new people as well. Some have been with me a long time, but weren’t with me during Tragic’s original release, Kathy, Lisa, the Donna and Stephanie duo, Jayne and Michelle. Sorry, if I forgot anyone! I’m always grateful to you all. I’d be nothing without you guys!

I need to add a special shout out to the people who ran L’Amour in Brooklyn back in the 80’s. (Yes, I know I’m showing my age!) That place was special to me and those I went to high school with. We got to see many awesome bands and a few who were borderline sucky. Every show brought me to my happy place, though. I still have a need for live music and feel it when it’s been too long. If you’ve never been to a rock club or concert, try to make it happen. The energy and comradery is unparalleled.

MEET THE BAND

Chad McLoughlin - Lead Guitar

Andy Peirce - Vocals

Daniel Brandt - Drums

Crystal Atkinson - Bass

Paulie Capacette- Rhythm Guitar

Phil Ferris – Sound Engineer

CHAPTER ONE

The Saturday after Christmas, I woke up alone in Paulie Capacette’s bed. We had been together for four months. So far, things had gone well. I turned over and looked around the room. He was nowhere to be seen.

Paulie? I fell back on the pillow.

His voice came from beyond the closed bedroom door. Be right there, Crystal. Seconds later, he appeared. Sorry. I let you sleep. You feeling OK? When I got up, you barely moved.

I stretched. Think so. A little achy maybe.

Was I too rough last night? He sat on the bed next to me and laid a hand on my thigh.

As I shook my head, I replied, No. I mean my muscles. My eyes closed, and I groaned. Not now.

Now what? Paulie laid down next to me and pulled me into his arms. You work out too hard yesterday or something?

We had not seen each other the last five days. He had spent that time in Long Island with his family. Natalie, who was his cousin and my friend, had gone with him. They had come back the night before. He had picked me up just before he’d headed home.

As soon as the apartment door had been locked the past night, his lips were on mine. He hadn’t let go until he had led me to the bedroom. Then he’d feverishly yanked my jeans and panties down.

Seconds later, I was on my back with my legs in the air. Slightly confused, I’d gripped the blanket. Then my back arched when he thrust into me fully in one stroke. I cried out multiple times while he plunged into me repeatedly with wild abandon.

There had been no time to think. By the time he was done, my body had given out. I had passed out before he’d set my legs down.

Hey. He squeezed me. What is it?

I let the images of the night before go and sighed. I think my period’s gonna start.

Last time it wasn’t bad at all. He kissed my temple.

Since he had only seen one cycle, and it was a mild one, I grimaced. Sometimes it gets pretty bad. I didn’t want to be graphic but thought he needed to know. If it starts, I may wanna go home.

With a concerned tone, he asked, Do you wanna stay here today?

No. My parents are expecting us. It was a family tradition to have extended family over the weekend after Christmas. Many would travel quite far. I’ll let you know if it gets bad.

He nuzzled my neck. Will it be worse since you haven’t had a period in like three months? His hand lazily caressed my arm.

I sighed. Doubt it. That’s not how it usually works. I didn’t want the day ruined, but I had no control. With my gynecological issues, there was no way to know what it would be like.

I’ll be by your side if it’s bad. Promise. He pulled back and let me fall onto my back. Then he climbed on top of me. Love you. He pressed his lips to mine. Let’s go make breakfast.

I smiled and looked into his eyes. I love you, too. Good idea. I sighed. Guess I haveta get up.

Yep. Paulie got to his knees and tugged me to sit up. Eggs or eggs?

I rolled my eyes. How can I choose?

His cooking skills were limited. I taught him almost all he knew. After I put on one of his t-shirts, I followed him to the small kitchen. It didn’t take us long to make and eat breakfast. Then it was off to my family home.

Who’s gonna be there? Paulie asked as he drove across town. He didn’t express his anxiety, but it was obvious to me.

I closed my eyes. My brothers. The groan from him was soft but understood. When he had met them a few months prior, they’d gone into protective mode fast. They’ve chilled out about the age difference, I assured him. With Paulie being 21 and me being 18, it upset Cameron more than Gavin. My best friend, Chad, had set them straight for me.

Please don’t tell them you spent the night at my place. His knuckles turned white when he gripped the steering wheel harder. I’m sure that’d earn me a broken nose.

My hand moved to his thigh, and I squeezed. I won’t say anything. They won’t harass you. Promise.

How d’ ya know? He didn’t sound convinced.

I sighed. My dad really likes you. Cameron won’t confront you again.

If he takes a swing, I’m hiding behind Chad.

Unable to help it, I burst into giggles. Natalie’ll protect you.

I’m not hitting your brother. He glared at me for a few seconds. That’d really make a great impression.

Slowly, my laughter died. It’s gonna be fine. Please, relax. Nothing more was said until he parked a few houses down from my parent’s place. Paulie? I’ll stay by your side the whole time.

OK. He turned off the engine. Wait. What if you haveta pee?

I giggled again, unable to help it. If you need to follow me to the bathroom, I guess I’ll-

It’s not funny. Paulie angrily got out of the car. Cameron scared the shit outta me. Before he left last time, he told me he’d hunt me down if I hurt you.

Fucking asshole. I stood across the car and waited for him to come to me. I’m gonna tell him to back the fuck off.

Paulie’s eyes widened as he approached me. No. Don’t. I don’t want him to know his threat worked.

What d’ ya mean, worked? My eyebrows furrowed. You sayin’ you don’t love me?

He groaned. No. He grabbed my hands and pulled them to his chest. I meant I’m kinda afraid of his wrath if we ever have a fight.

I won’t tell either of them if we do. I stepped forward and leaned my head on his strong chest. You should know everyone there.

We stood there for about a minute before we headed to the house. I gripped Paulie’s hand tightly as we walked through the front door. He squeezed mine as we made our way from room to room. We greeted family, friends, and neighbors. Eventually, we found Chad and Natalie near the back door.

Hey, man. Chad put out a hand to Paulie. Glad you didn’t have to work.

Paulie was a bartender at Charlie’s, a popular local bar. ’Sup, Chad. He gave Chad a half-hug. Then he turned to Natalie. Glad to be back, too?

Yeah. Natalie grinned as he hugged her tightly. Missed my boyfriend. She pulled back, grabbed Chad’s hand, and gazed into his eyes. Couldn’t stay away.

I was happy for Chad but was still just a bit jealous. They were good together. Natalie had not dropped him as I had worried. We had gone on many double dates, which told me how happy Chad really was. I had never seen him so content.

Crystal? my mother, Pam, called to me. Can you and Natalie help me set up the buffet?

I let Paulie’s hand go. We’ll be right back.

Lemme help. Paulie’s eyes widened when they set on Cameron in the next room. Uh, well maybe-

I tugged him into the kitchen and gave my oldest brother a death glare. Don’t you dare bother him today.

Cameron put his hands up. I was just comin’ to say hello. Swear I’ll keep the threats to a minimum this time. He grinned and nodded his head at Chad. I got my minions watching out for you anyway.

I glanced at Chad, who shrugged. Then I turned back to Cameron. There’s nothing to worry about. Paulie’s good to me.

Better be, Cameron mumbled and walked to Gavin, the middle child of my family.

As I rolled my eyes, I shook my head. Fuckin’ pain in the ass. Ignore him. My brothers went overboard way too often.

Wow, three times in one year? Josh, Chad’s oldest brother, shouted as he walked toward my brothers. Is this a new record?

I had to smile. Josh was right. They rarely visited, but that year they had come to see me play in a battle of the bands, for my mother’s birthday and Christmas. It had not happened since they’d moved away. Chad, our brothers, and I mostly grew up next door to each other. It made us almost as close as siblings.

Focused on what my mother needed, I turned to the oven. Several hot dishes waited there. The four of us worked together, and the buffet was ready quickly. The room soon filled as everyone smelled the amazing spread.

*** ♫♪♫♪ ***

After dinner, Chad turned to my father. Pop, you mind if we go hang out in Crystal’s room?

If the door stays unlocked.

I glanced at Chad, shocked he didn’t say open. Chad shrugged and led the way upstairs. Paulie and I followed, hand in hand. Since we had started dating shortly before I left home, he had never seen my room.

Da—amn, Paulie said as he glanced around the room. His eyes roamed over the Gasoline posters that covered the walls. You’re obsessed, huh? He laughed.

I scowled at him and slapped his arm. I’m not obsessed.

Only about Tommy Fischer, Chad clarified as he grinned. She’d jump him in a heartbeat. He dodged my hand when I swung at his arm. It’s true, baby.

Natalie stepped in front of him and looked up at him. You promised.

I can’t help it. Chad sighed. I been calling her ‘baby’ forever. What’s the big deal?

Paulie tugged me aside. I kinda don’t like it either. He held me close. I just deal with it. He kissed my forehead. It’s not like he hits on you or somethin’.

OK. I had worried he was jealous.

Since Chad and Natalie had become a couple, many things had changed for Chad and I. Unlike when he had been with other girls, he didn’t come onto me when we were alone. The last time we had kissed was the night he had caught Paulie and I in bed. It was different for us both to be happy and in a relationship, a good different, though.

I turned my head when music suddenly started to play. Chad had put the radio on. My CD collection was in my dorm. I laid my head on Paulie’s chest and listened to Linkin Park’s Bleed It Out. My body moved to the quick beat, not quite dancing.

I like this one too, Paulie said as I felt him bang his head to the beat.

When the song changed to Forever by Papa Roach, I grinned. It was slow and had a bit of a sensual feel to it. I put my hands in Paulie’s back pockets and swayed my body to the music.

I saw these guys once at Irving Plaza, Paulie whispered into my hair. Amazing show. I’d love to see ’em again.

Sounds good. I bit my lip and pulled his body closer. Within seconds, his cock started to harden. Feels good.

Paulie bent down. Chad’d kill me if he could hear what I’m thinkin’. He exhaled across my ear. Fuckin’ you up against that wall. Your back pressed up against Tommy Fischer there.

I shivered and wished we were alone. If only.

When we get back, you’re mine. He walked me backward until I hit the wall and pressed his body into me. All mine. He growled softly, lips near my ear. Gonna-

Chad cleared his throat. Uh, I’m in the room, guys.

I blushed. We had become oblivious to the other couple. Paulie, stop.

Soon. He sucked my earlobe into his mouth and sighed. Then he stepped back. Sorry, Chad. Got carried away.

Chad exhaled loudly as he tried not to glare. I get it but don’t wanna see it. A jealous expression crossed his face. Maybe we should go back downstairs.

I shook my head and crossed the room to him. Not yet. We could play a game or something.

Natalie laughed as she watched her cousin. I’m not playing strip poker with you. I’ve seen enough. Her cheeks reddened slightly as she made a face of disgust. Ew.

It took me a few seconds to understand what she meant. Then I remembered the picture she saw on my phone. She had also seen Paulie naked in my dorm room. It never dawned on me how that affected her.

Not what I was thinking, I assured her. I meant like a board game.

Chad went into my closet and reached up to the boxes there. He took down several games we’d played for years. Reminds me of when we were kids. He laid them on the bed. Anybody got a preference?

We sat on the floor and played Trivial Pursuit, Chad’s favorite. He usually won. This time though, Paulie gave him a run for his money. I had no idea he was so intelligent. Well, I knew he was smart, but he knew things that most didn’t.

Chas Newby, Paulie answered smugly.

With a shake of his head, Chad replied, How the hell’d you know that?

I knew that too, I offered. Because my mother was a huge Beatles fan, it gave me an advantage. Not many knew the Beatles that made it big, were not all original members.

Paulie smiled. I got a lotta useless info in this head of mine. He tapped his skull. Too bad it can’t make me money.

It would on like Jeopardy or something. Natalie rubbed his arm. He always sells himself short. He’s the genius of the family.

I grinned, proud to be his girlfriend. Told you I was attracted to your mind.

Among other things, Natalie mumbled then cracked up laughing.

The bedroom door opened suddenly. We all looked up to see Will. Uh, Chad. Nick came to say goodbye.

My eyes opened wide. Nick was someone Chad and I grew up with. He joined the Army right out of high school. No one had told me he was in town. Goodbye meant that he was to be deployed. But to where?

Baby, relax. Chad looked into my eyes. He’s gonna be fine. His eyes showed concern.

I stood up. Where’s he shipping off to?

Chad quickly grabbed my arms. We didn’t know how to tell you.

Iraq? My mind reeled. The month before, one of Josh’s friends had been killed when his helicopter had been shot down. Why d’ ya hide things from me? I smacked Chad’s chest as I tried to hold back tears. I’m not a baby. Although I felt like one. Fear and worry filled me.

As he pulled me into a hug, Chad whispered, After Adam, I thought you’d be upset.

I am. I closed my eyes and few tears fell. In my heart, I knew freedom was not free. Sacrifice was necessary, but when it was someone close, it hurt. When?

Tomorrow, baby. He squeezed me tighter. He’ll be fine.

I nodded. Odds were he would be. I know.

Um, is this a bad time? Nick asked from behind us.

I let Chad go, rushed to Nick and practically knocked him backward. He wore fatigues, which made it infinitely more real. Years back, I’d had a crush on him, but he didn’t seem to feel the same way.

Wow. Never got this kinda greeting before. Nick put his arms around me and rubbed my back. Hey, it’s only six months. I’ll be back. He rubbed his lips over my forehead. Crystal? Chad, she’s shaking. What’s wrong? His fingers ran through my hair.

Another body pressed to my back, and I felt Chad’s hands on my arms. She’s just scared. Iraq’s kinda far.

We can do video chats, Nick suggested.

Paulie made a sound that caught my attention. Honey, maybe we should go take a walk or something. His tone was laced with jealousy.

Sorry. I leaned on Chad and looked up at Nick. Be careful. I kissed his cheek and pulled my bottom lip in. Don’t forget to wear your armor. My hands shook as he stepped back.

While Paulie nodded to Nick, he grabbed me and pulled me toward him. They’d met a few times. You stuck it out, unlike me. He had been discharged soon after boot camp, for breaking several rules, multiple times. Good luck out there.

Thanks. Nick shook Chad’s hand then Paulie’s. I’ll be in touch. Can’t get rid of me that easy. He followed Will out.

Paulie kissed my temple. You OK?

I nodded, since I didn’t want to say anything yet. Reality sucked sometimes. Nick wasn’t the first of our high school friends to be deployed to the Middle East, but I was closer to him than the others.

Will and Josh had gone through the same for years. Most did come back, although not always in the condition they left in. It was hard to see someone you knew for a long time struggle when they returned.

We’ll be here for him. Chad stood next to us. I could feel he held back his angst.

It took a few minutes for me focus again. Then I took a deep breath. I pulled away from them both and rushed to the bathroom. After I had locked myself inside, I sat on the bathtub’s edge. I needed a few minutes alone to face it. When I felt better about the situation, I opened the door.

Paulie stood in the hall. Better?

Yeah. I gave him a half-smile. He’ll be fine. I just needed to process it.

He grinned and tugged me to him. If you need to talk about it I’m here.

Crystal, Chad, my father called from downstairs. Coffee and dessert is out. That was our cue to go back downstairs.

CHAPTER TWO

OK. I have to admit. Paulie parked his car near his apartment building. That went much better than I expected.

I patted his arm. Told you they wouldn’t grill you again. As I yawned, I turned away from him. Why am I so tired?

Um, did you start bleeding yet? Paulie wasn’t keen on menstruation talk.

As I leaned my head on the window, I replied, No. The achy feeling went away. I must have just slept in a weird position. I yawned again.

Will said… His voice faded slowly.

I jolted awake when my door suddenly opened. Oh, shit!

Sorry. Paulie unbuckled my seatbelt. You were leaning on the door. He gently hefted me into his arms. Guess you really were tired. He carried me up to his place and sat me on the bed. Can you undress yourself?

I stretched. Yeah. Just let me take a shower. I didn’t like to go to bed without one. Slowly, I undressed and walked to the small bathroom attached to his bedroom. You don’t have to wait for me.

Once under the hot spray, I closed my eyes and felt my body try to give into sleep again. To stay awake, I looked up and let the water hit my face. It didn’t work for long. With some difficulty, I washed and conditioned my hair. Then I poured soap onto a bath pouf. Again, I leaned heavily on the shower wall, as I ran it over my skin.

Need help? Paulie asked as he stepped into the shower behind me. Hands on my hips, he groaned. Wish I had a condom. Perfect position. His growing cock pressed to my ass cheek. How about I just pull out again? He had done that once before, when he had bought the wrong size condoms.

That woke me up. I stood straight. No.

Why? He wrapped his arms around me. What’s wrong? He nuzzled my neck. You’re shaking. I scared you?

I shook my head. New things… you know.

Everything is new at one point. He moved his dick so it slid between my folds. There are a lotta things we haven’t tried yet. Shower sex is hot as hell.

I was sure it would be, but something in me feared the unknown. So many new things had turned out to be something I regretted, at least for a while. I didn’t want to regret anything I did with Paulie. He was the first man I loved. I hoped he was the only one as well. It would be awful to lose him.

I’m sorry, he whispered in my ear. I know you haven’t done much. Lord knows I’ve just about tried everything. He groaned. Sorry. I don’t mean to compare. It’s just—just sometimes I wish you could let it go that you’re new to sex and stuff. Trust me. I won’t ask you to do something that won’t feel good. Please stop putting me in his place.

My mouth dropped. He thinks I’m punishing him for Keith’s cruelty? I’m not. I leaned back on him as his arms moved around me. I guess… well, new is terrifying for me. You know that.

Yeah I do. He exhaled over my ear. But… don’t you trust me?

I nodded and closed my eyes. Please, not tonight.

OK. I’m sorry. He took the pouf out of my hand and started to wash my body. Can we do it another time, though?

I shrugged. Maybe. The slight adrenaline started to wear off. My legs became weak. I put my hands on the wall again.

Can’t stand behind you if you’re gonna do that, Paulie mumbled. Pussy fuckin’ teasing my dick. Can’t take this.

My eyes opened wide when the head of his cock pressed into me. I squirmed away from him. No. Don’t. Fear gripped me.

Hey, hey. He grabbed my arms. I wasn’t tryin’ to fuck you. You moved and my dick slipped. I stepped toward you and… Well your pussy was right there. He leaned his forehead on mine. I could never hurt you. You know that, right?

Yeah. My voice was small.

He sighed. Look at me. He waited for our eyes to meet again. You say no and it’s no. I won’t push you like he did. I’ll never be like him.

Then it came to me. In a way, I did blame him for what Keith had done. To give Paulie something that I had never done before felt like when I gave Keith my virginity. I felt used and unsure of myself. However, Paulie was nothing like Keith. Not once had he pushed me into something or treated me as if I had to fuck him.

I trust you.

Good. He pulled me back under the water for a few seconds. We’ll continue this tomorrow. Minutes later, we were in his bed, snuggled together, him behind me. As soon as I wake up.

In reply, I nodded, too tired to understand what he meant.

*** ♫♪♫♪ ***

I woke up to a soft voice. Crystal, Crystal... My eyelids still heavy, my brain only partly functional. I heard pants in my ear and felt weight on my body. Please wake up before I cum.

My eyes opened, and I realized Paulie was on top of me. What’re you doing? I asked groggily.

What’s it feel like? His voice was so sexy.

I moved my hands to his arms. Then I felt him thrust into me. Sex.

"Good