Rhythm: An Inner Music Novel Book 2

By Danielle Sebastian Berry

A steamy tale of growth and unconditional love.
Six years after her mother’s sudden fame, Genesis is turning twenty-one. Growing up the treasure of her family, she always did what was expected of her. Today, Genesis longs to take control of her life and make her own way in the world; and now that she's about to graduate from college, she plans to do just that. Beautiful, talented, wild and strong, Genesis is determined to follow her desires and live her life as she pleases – with or without her family’s approval. Which includes making Wicked’s drummer, Derek Fletcher her own.
For six years they’ve been friends, but Derek suddenly finds himself wanting the very grown-up Genesis in ways he has never thought of before. In the past, he had always been strong enough to keep his distance; but now, he cannot seem to stay away. Genesis’ call to him is strong and pulls at him in ways he cannot ignore.
Can their friendship and love for one another survive Genesis' journey to womanhood? And if so, will Derek be willing to expose his darkest secrets to her and risk losing her friendship, loyalty and love?

Rhythm is the second book of the Inner Music series. It contains strong language, sexual content and references abuse. Those under 18 or the easily offended should avoid.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Danielle Sebastian Berry
• Release date: Dec 26, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370640317

Danielle Sebastian Berry

Danielle Sebastian is a San Francisco Native who still resides in the Bay Area with family. Because she is a Summer girl, it is not uncommon to find her at outdoor concerts, festivals or just enjoying a glass of sangria with friends. She is a lover of all music, art, dance and an incurable romantic. Outgoing and loves to laugh, one cannot help but be drawn to her vibrant energy.The mantra she lives by is 'Live free. Love Fierce', and she is very passionate about life. If you ever see her out, don't hesitate to say hello and let her know you have read her book. She is always willing to chat about it.

Book preview

COVER0001.jpgcover.jpg

Copyright 2017 by Danielle Sebastian Berry

All Rights reserved. No part of this book is to be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing by the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. The author acknowledges the trademarked statue and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission.

Table of Contents

Dedication

Prologue

1 The Start

2 The Light

3 Control

4 The Players

5 The Game

6 Puerto Rico

7 Regret

8 The Return

9 Protection

10 The Lovers

11 Friends

12 The Outsiders

13 The Vows

14 The Graduate

15 The Offer

16 La Douler Exquise

17 The Secret

18 Stardom

19 The Paparazzi

20 The Guilt

21 A New Beginning

22 Adjustments

23 Loyalty

24 Coming to Terms

25 Disappearing Acts

26 Open Wounds

27 Rise Up

28 Back To Life

29 United

30 It Is What It Is

31 Behind the Curtain

32 Going Public

33 At Last

Epilogue

Dedication

To Myra Haydee. For the long talks, unconditional acceptance and understanding only a sister can give.

Rhythm is a strong repeated pattern of sound or beats used in music, dance and poetry.

PROLOGUE

Dublin, Ireland

Rock band, Wicked and new Rock sensation, Ainsley sat in a private room at a casual restaurant eating an early dinner. Ainsley, being the only female present, was very relaxed and trying to keep her mind from the show to come. Callum, sitting at her side, absentmindedly rubbed the back of her neck with his hand while they all chatted about what had gone on after their tour opening in London. Little of Ainsley’s attention was on the men as she ate her warm potato soup. That was, until Derek called for her attention.

Ainsley, I need to ask you something, Derek spoke nervously, prompting Ainsley to set her spoon down and lean back into her seat. It’s about Genesis.

The others sitting around the table grew silent and tried to turn their attention elsewhere.

What about Genesis? Ainsley asked, telling herself to remain calm. The thing Derek had about her daughter worried her and she had hoped it would quietly go away once they were on tour. But judging by the care in which he spoke his words, she was not to be so lucky.

I want to send her a Christmas gift, but I wanted to get your okay first. He smiled broadly flashing a set of perfect, white teeth, hoping it would help ease the tension. He figured his striking good looks would soften the blow a bit. Hell, it worked on every other woman who crossed his path.

Why would you want to buy her a Christmas gift, Derek? She was careful to keep her voice down.

Well. He shifted in his chair. We’ve been talking…

You’ve been talking? At Ainsley’s surprise, Callum’s hand moved from her neck to her thigh. You’ve been talking to Genesis? How’d you even get her number?

Jason got it from Jacob…

Fuck, man. You had to bring me into this! Jason covered his face with his hands. ‘This is all bad.’

Jacob? Ainsley was beginning to lose her cool and felt Callum grab hold of her hand.

At this moment, all Jason could think about was she had totally missed his involvement. The last thing he needed was for some teenager’s mother to be pissed at him for playing the middle man for a twenty-five-year-old man.

Ainsley pulled her hand from Callum’s hold and pulled her phone from her purse that hung on the back of her chair. What are you thinking, Derek? If the media catches wind of this, they are going to drag her name through the mud. She will never recover from it. They will torment her!

They’ll never know, Ains. I promise! He shifted in his chair, hands spread out in front of him. I don’t even refer to her by her real name. I’m careful to not let the press or anyone catch on.

What the fuck, Derek? She dialed her daughter’s number using Viber. What the fuck are you thinking? She’s fifteen! The line rang.

Mike stepped into the room hearing Ainsley’s voice outside the door. Everything okay?

Mike, Ainsley turned her attention to him. "Derek here has been calling my fifteen-year-old daughter!" She couldn’t help but emphasize the problem.

I think you have the wrong idea, Derek defended himself, but was cut off with Ainsley’s finger stopping him. She put the phone on speaker.

Hi, Mommy!

Genesis. Her voice was even. Have you been talking to Derek? The twenty-five-year-old drummer?

Derek interjected. I don’t know what the fuss is about. You and Callum are about eight years apart.

Callum raised his finger to his lips to stop Derek from talking before he made a bad situation worse. Too late. Ainsley slowly took Callum’s steak knife off the table, never taking her eyes from Derek who sat across from her.

Genesis cleared her throat. We’ve been texting. That’s it. She sounded small, young.

Why didn’t you tell me about this, Genesis?

Because I knew you wouldn’t approve. I knew you would be upset about it, she answered. "He insisted you should know even though I told him not to tell you." A cut in her voice, clearly directed at Derek.

What, exactly is going on here? Ainsley looked over at Mike and raised her eyebrow. In return he shook his head and looked down. Somebody better speak now or I’m going to start cutting.

Okay, okay, Derek spoke up. I’m drawn to your daughter. I can’t explain it but I am. But first, let me clarify, I’m actually twenty-four. As if that would make it better. We text, nothing disrespectful. I have no intention of crossing any lines or doing anything that will jeopardize her or my relationship with you. If I didn’t feel strongly about her I wouldn’t bother with her. But I do. I know she’s only fifteen but we’re just friends that’s it. I swear to you Ains, there’s nothing more going on here. I gave my word to Jacob and I give my word to you.

Callum peeled Ainsley’s fingers from around the handle of his steak knife and took it away, placing it on the opposite side of his plate.

I do what I do on tour, Ains, you know that, he continued. She has high school to finish and proms and homecoming dances and shit like that.

And college! Ainsley yelled into the phone. She has college too!

Derek chuckled. And college. My point is we’re at different stages of our lives. I’m not here to disrupt her life and she’s not trying to disrupt mine. We’re just friends… for now.

Ainsley’s eyes narrowed. For now?

Who knows what will happen when she gets older and out of high-college? he quickly corrected himself. She’s my girl, Ains. Just because we’re not ready for each other now doesn’t mean we won’t be later.

Mommy, I’d tell you if something else was going on. Genesis’ voice was suddenly firm, mature, nothing like that of a fifteen-year-old. I’m not going to take him to prom.

No one said a thing. Ainsley’s eyes, however, looked as though they would burn holes into Derek. All she could think about was Elvis and Pricilla. And look how that ended.

Mommy, are you there?

I’ll talk to you later, Genesis. I have to wrap my head around this.

Are you mad at me?

No, Ainsley breathed. Just disappointed in you.

Every person in the room cringed in silence. That was the worst thing a parent could say to their child. Disappointment was the most difficult to bounce back from.

Okay, Genesis said quietly. Love you.

Without saying goodbye Ainsley disconnected the line.

Did you really have to tell her you were disappointed in her? asked Steve, looking hurt. That always makes kids cry. Shit that makes grown-ass adults cry.

Ignoring Steve, Ainsley rested her elbows on the table. What’s going to happen when you decide you are bored with her, Derek? Because I will be the one who will have to piece her back together when you’re done.

Can I say something? Callum raised his hand then pushed up the sleeve of his dark Henley. Derek, you’re dealing with someone and something that puts each of us in this room in a sensitive position. If this gets out, it will affect all of us. As far as Gen is concerned, she will be the one who will get hurt the worst. In the long-run because she has the most to lose. And that puts you in a danger you know nothing about.

Because, I’ll hurt you. Ainsley chimed in, glaring at the drummer, shooting darts with her eyes.

Maybe, Callum replied, looking over at her. But I’ve seen how Gen can get. Ainsley looked over at him with a questioning look. I had a sit down with her and her brother in L.A. Very nice and well-mannered kids, but where he is diplomatic, she goes straight for the kill. She didn’t give a shit that I was a grown man. All she cared about was me hurting her mother. She told me she would come after me if I did. That was after she told me to stay out of your life if I wasn’t serious about treating you well. He turned his attention back to his friend. She’s no joke, man. She’s a force to be reckoned with. If you think you can run this girl till you’ve had your fill, you’re wrong. She has the potential to be crazy, mean. I’ve seen it in her eyes. He looked down at Ainsley. No joke, angel. She can hold her own. The way I see it, knowing Derek the way I do, she can handle him like no one else can.

So, what are you saying? I should just let this continue?

You can say no and he’ll respect that. He would have no choice. But what about Genesis?

Ainsley thought for a moment. Callum was right. If she told Derek he couldn’t speak to Genesis again, Genesis was sure to blame her and find a way to talk to Derek anyway. And that could possibly cause Genesis to cross the lines Derek has already set out of respect for both mother and daughter. She was, after all, a teenage girl. One thing they do best is go out and see the boys their mothers tell them not to.

She stared at Derek long and hard, turning all possible scenarios in her head. Derek, if you cross the line with Genesis I will cut your dick off, throw it in a blender to make a smoothie of it and make you drink it. Do you hear me?

He smiled his precious, prince smile and nodded his head, not moved by her threat. The others, however, covered their goods with a hand. Ainsley, you have my word. I won’t touch her. I won’t even tell her we have a future together. We’re just friends until she’s old enough. She’s my girl, Ains, but we’re just friends.

Ainsley stood to her feet and grabbed her London Fog overcoat. Brushing past Mike, she walked out of the room. I need air, she said, as he followed close behind her.

Callum did not take his eyes off Derek and watched him closely as if trying to read him. All the years he had known Derek he had never known him to care so much about a girl. But the protector in him surfaced and cared about what happened to both Genesis and Jacob. Not to mention, their mother was his main priority. If she wasn’t happy then he couldn’t be. Derek, man, I hope you know what you’re doing.

I do, man.

I hope so, too, cause I’ve seen Ainsley pissed, Adam added. Not something you want to deal with.

Callum’s gaze held Derek’s steady. Thing is, Derek, we’ve known each other for a lot of years. I would hate for a fifteen-year-old girl to come between us.

Derek looked around the room at the other guys and thought before he spoke. It’s good, you guys. There’s just something about her that pulls me in. Can’t put my finger on it, but something about her has me in a vice. I’m not going to let any heartbreak touch her. I swear.

The band looked around at each other before they nodded in understanding. Their bandmate was already lost to the fifteen-year-old Genesis. Now, all they could do was sit back and wait for the storm to hit.

Love is no assignment for the cowards.

                                                              - Ovid

1

The Start

New Year’s Eve is already a good time. But New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas celebrating a big birthday, is in a category all its own.

It was the big twenty-one for Jacob and Genesis and their parents went all out to be sure they had a party to remember. Their mother and Callum flew them and a few of their friends out to the notorious sin city. When they arrived, there was a car waiting for them, compliments of Caesar’s Palace, to take them to their high-roller accommodations (the location of, what was to be, the wildest three days ever). Even though the twins were mostly suburban raised, they had grown accustomed to their junior, rock star lifestyle over the latter years. But when they were told about their New Year’s Eve in Vegas, both twins just about lost their minds.

The guest list consisted of: the infamous Savannah (who blew the whistle on Genesis’ and Derek’s friendship a few years back), Jason (guitarist from Wicked and Jacob’s best friend), and a few friends the two had made during their years in college. All, were excited to be there. Two were happy to, finally, be of legal drinking age; but only one, was still waiting for something she had been waiting for for the last six years. That something was not a secret to anyone who was a part of their Wicked/Ainsley crowd. They all knew, but everyone was careful to not voice it out loud.

Music blared through the large speakers that had been set up alongside the entryway while people danced or lounged in the booth seats located next to the large window or elsewhere. They all remained indoors, choosing to stay out of the brisk December air. Drinks flowed from the endless supply of alcohol, guaranteeing the party would last into the early hours of the morning.

The sound of a clinking glass made its way to the D.J.’s ears, causing him to shut down the music. Everyone’s eyes rested on Jacob who stood on the bar with a broad smile stretched across his face that glowed in his chestnut eyes. There were quite a few admirers standing at his feet, content to be in his presence. He had grown into a very good-looking young man with a physique that most men, his age or older, would sell their souls to have. Years of Rugby were good to him, giving him a great body and a following of very willing female fans. College agreed with him and allowed him to shine. Time hanging out with his best friend, Rockstar, guitarist Jason, taught him how to use that shine to his advantage when it came to the women.

Everyone! he started. Before the new year comes in… He pulled his phone from his back pocket and checked the time. fifteen minutes, I wanted to thank you all for sharing in the celebration of me and my sister’s big twenty-first! A loud cheer filled the large room accompanied by glasses and bottles raised in the air as a salute. He pointed over to a crowd of guys, obviously, his rugby mates by the size of them. This does not mean any of you have the okay to speak to my sister. She is off limits to any of you for life. Got it? Everyone laughed. Genesis chuckled, thankful her brother kept them all at bay. For real, though, he continued. We can’t thank you all enough for making the trip out. You guys are great.

Finishing his speech, he jumped down from the bar and cued the D.J. to restart his mixing. Being bombarded with hugs, he held his glass high in the air to keep it from spilling.

Jacob is looking damn good these days, Gen. Savannah eyed him smoothly, careful to not make it known she was doing so.

Genesis watched the women as they clung to her brother’s side with his arms draped over their shoulders. Somehow, he had inherited the rock star charisma and it was proving to affect every girl within a ten-mile radius of him. His phone pinged constantly, and he was never without a date. Hell, they were just short of following him across campus to camp outside his fraternity house. I guess, she said, taking a long drink from her glass of champagne.

I can’t believe he grew up to look like that, Savannah said. And he’s smart. I should have gone to prom with him when he asked me. She shook her head like she had just lost the lottery by one number.

You should have. I tried to tell you. Now he’s so full of himself, he’s no good to anyone. Genesis turned to look out of the massive floor-to-ceiling-window to peer down to the strip where thousands waited for the new year to arrive. It looked cold down there; and she was glad she was in the lap of luxury where she could get a much better view. She hated to think she was looking down on the little people but that was, pretty much, what she was doing tonight.

Hey, girl. I was looking for you. A rich, baritone voice reached her ears and caused the corners of her mouth to curl up into a sly smile. ‘Finally,’ she thought. The highlight of her birthday.

Taking her time, Genesis smiled slyly at Savannah before she took another drink from her glass. Licking her lips, she coolly turned on her heels to face the man behind the voice. I’m here, she said, trying her best to remain calm and seem in control. It had been a while since she had last seen him. I was beginning to think you had forgotten about me.

She handed the half empty bottle of Dom Perignon to Savannah who stood next to her while her eyes took in the man who stood before them. With a wave, Genesis sent her off.

A big part of me expected to see you before tonight. Her eyes raked over him. ‘Damn, he looks good.’

With eyes alight with the color of the bright, blue sky on a hot summer day, Derek drank in the vision if her. It had been a long time since he last set eyes on her - since his mission was to stay clear of her while she finished school. Out of respect for her mother and his bandmate, he had kept his distance. However, it did not mean he was not watching the calendar. He told her mother years ago, he was going to come for her. What kind of man would he be if he did not stick to his word? After all, a man is only as good as his word.

He smiled, the expression working its way deep behind his gaze. His head slightly tilted to the right because of the dark hair that fell heavy, too close to his right eye. There is no way I would forget you, girl. You know better than that.

Arching her eyebrow, Genesis looked down at the watch on her wrist. Derek had given it to her when she graduated from high school, saying it was to help her make it to her dorm before it got too late while she was away at college. I’ve been twenty-one for twenty-three hours and fifty-seven minutes. She looked back at him. Don’t you think that’s cutting it a bit too close?

He licked his full lips and pushed up the sleeves of his black shirt. His eyes were filled with mischief. Not at all. I’m right on time. A smile pushed its way across his mouth.

Genesis lifted her glass to her lips and swallowed the last of its contents down, making sure to let the taste linger on her tongue for a moment. The bottle was gift from Cal, so she had to enjoy every drop. At $199 a bottle, she wouldn’t be getting anymore anytime soon. ‘Mental note: Buy Cal a bottle of this when you can afford it.’

Stepping closer to Derek, she set her glass on the table next to him. Reaching for him, her hands rubbed the outsides of the front pockets of his pants. Finding nothing to interest her, she let them move to his back waistband, hoping to find something there. Delicate fingers searched him carefully, making sure to not seem too eager. Her brow furrowed when she found nothing, and stepped back.

Derek chuckled. What?

No gift? Her face was dark with disappointment. He always had a gift for her. Even though he spent his holidays in Detroit with his family, he always sent her a gift in time for Christmas. Every birthday and every milestone in her life, he always had a gift for her. This was a big birthday for her. How could he show up empty-handed?

He studied her for a moment before he looked around at everyone in the room. The crowd was busy enjoying themselves, not paying attention to the two of them at all. But it was not private enough for him and they needed to talk. Let’s go where we can be alone, he suggested, wrapped in his cool rock star confidence.

Swallowing, Genesis watched him as he scanned the room. Ever since the clock struck 12:00AM just under twenty-four hours ago to start her official birthday, she had waited to see him. Six years she had known him. The last four years caught her thinking about him in ways friends should never think about friends. But she never said anything to him about it. He was a rock star who was nine years her senior. The chances of him taking her feelings seriously were slim, regardless of how hot she turned out over the years.

Genesis was nervous to have him there and that made it hard for her to stay grounded. The party for them had begun when they got on the plane that morning. Which meant, she had put down a generous amount of alcohol - to say the least. Now she was worried about stumbling when she walked. She watched as he gave a nod to his bandmate, Jason, who stood across the room talking to some woman Genesis did not know.

Follow me, she said coolly, as she brushed by him. The bedrooms are supposed to be off limits to everyone. She smiled back at him. Well, mine is, at least.

They made their way through the crowd toward the bedrooms, her eyes catching those of her brother as they did. He gave a chin-up to Derek and went back to his fun, giving him the okay to be alone with his sister.

Cautiously, steady on her feet, Genesis walked with an ease she was unaware she possessed. She took her time, making the silver and black sequined dress look as good on her walking, as it did with her standing in place. Aware of his presence behind her, she could feel his eyes on her back. Somehow, his attention on her felt different and knowing he was watching her as she walked ahead of him made her warm. His energy could be felt by her without touching him and that was something completely new for her.

Behind her, Derek watched every step Genesis’ long legs delivered. She was in control of her long limbs, causing his mind to wonder about the feel of them around him. His brow creased. He had never thought about her in that way before. She was Genesis, his most trusted friend in the world. Never, ever did he see her as anything but. Yet, the long, toned muscles of her legs made him curious. He licked his lips and wiped his hand over his exotic features - nervous from the vibes he was picking up from her. Just walking behind her had his body responding to her. Her. Genesis. She was calling to him and had no idea what she was awakening in him. And all he could do was keep his cool. He had come because he had something for her, but sex was not it. That was not the plan, at least.

His eyes stroked over the bare skin of her back thru the deep V-back of her dress. Smooth and tight, it was apparent she was an athlete. For years, she had played soccer through high school which turned into her free ticket to college. And the way she looked in the short dress told him she had gotten more out of it than college tuition. The way her spine snaked through the open back neck of her sheath dress screamed body control; and he found himself wondering what she could do with that control. He folded in his lips as he tried hard to take his thoughts elsewhere.

She slowed to a stop outside of a bedroom door and glanced over her shoulder at him with eyes the color of chestnuts. A flip of her hair over her shoulder hid the cinnamon skin he had been admiring. She absentmindedly puckered her lips as she turned the doorknob and pushed the door open.

Once they entered her room, she closed the door behind them. Locking it, she fluffed her hair with her fingers. Big curls hung low down her back with a couple that dropped over her forehead to shadow her right eye. Over the years, she had kept it long despite the headache it caused for her. Often wild and unruly, in her mind it was her one grace.

Alone enough? she asked.

Closing the distance between them, Derek could hear the countdown for the coming new year seep in from the party down in the living room. They had never been alone before. There was always a crowd when they were around each other, so this privacy was new for them both. With nervous hands, he reached for her and placed them at the curve of her hips. Allowing his gaze to rest on her mouth, he pulled her close.

I’m going to kiss you now, he said quietly, not wanting to scare her off.

Okay, she replied softly, before she licked her lips in anticipation. She had waited for this moment for a long time and feared he would feel her tremble under his touch. It was hard to believe it was going to happen. Swallowing, she exhaled through slightly parted lips.

The faint sound of a Happy New Year was heard by them both before Derek’s mouth closed over hers. It was a gentle kiss. Polite and quick at first. Then it lingered to grow into an exploration of her mouth. His tongue caressed the warmth of it, before sliding over the surface of her teeth under her upper lip. Sucking her lower lip, he covered her mouth again to let his tongue probe for hers to stroke it. She tasted like a rare nectar made only for him and he gently wrapped her in his arms to hold her close to him. Instinctually, her body molded itself to fit his perfectly. Out of all the women he had entertained over the years, he had never known one to taste as sweet or feel so right against him.

Wrapping her arms around his neck, Genesis grabbed her own wrist, locking him in close to her. Oh, he could give a kiss. Nothing like those she had gotten from the boys in her short time. No, he really gave a kiss. It made her feel like a hot liquid was oozing through her veins. She tasted him and opened her mouth wider for more from him. For the first time, she could feel him. He was firm, wide and wrapped her in strong arms. Thin hips pressed against her and she could feel his excitement. Involuntarily, her knees pressed together at the sensation she was getting in her sex. Being no stranger to being kissed, she had managed to keep her virginity intact. But this kiss was causing things to happen within her that she was sure to open up for.

Derek held her to him, relishing in the feel of her. Curls drifted across her face, tickling his nose as he kissed her. With his hand, he pushed them back and held her head to him with his fingers weaved in her hair. The smell of her intoxicated him and put his mind in a haze. It was the first time he’d touched her since her high school graduation when he hugged her congratulations.

But his mind drifted back to when he first saw her. At age fourteen-going-on-fifteen, she was a tall girl with long legs and slight curves. And when he gathered her in his embrace, that first day, he found peace and wanted to protect her and keep her close. Now, she was a young woman whose curves seemed to be molded for his body alone. And as she enclosed him in her arms, he still found peace with her.

Finally, their lips parted, leaving them both breathless. He held her head between his palms to look into her eyes. Her chestnut gaze was glazed with a mixture of alcohol and desire for him and he had to fight the urge to kiss her again. He wanted her but not like this. He had waited too long to have her for it to be in a drunken haze.

Stepping back, Derek put some distance between them, leaving her unsteady on her feet. Quickly, he reached out to steady her and she gripped his arm. I’m good, she whispered, as she moved to sit on the bed. I’ve had a bit too much to drink, I think.

Not trusting himself to speak, Derek moved over to a chair and sat down. His hands gripped tightly to the armrests. He wasn’t expecting this. He wasn’t expecting her to have such an effect on him. Closing his eyes, he drew in a slow, deep breath to settle himself.

Something wrong? Genesis’ voice carried across the distance like a breeze to caress his face.

Opening his eyes, he let his gaze rest on her and shook his head. Absolutely nothing wrong, he said dryly.

Caught off guard by his tone, she turned away. She was a disappointment to him and she did not know how to take it. He had been with hundreds of women in his life. She was a fool to think she would be something special. And to think, she had saved herself for him, only to find she did not meet up to his expectations.

Genesis, he spoke, using her complete name. Something she could not remember him ever doing. She was always Gen or code name Eve to him. Never Genesis.

Refusing to shift her gaze to him, she did not answer.

Rising to his feet, Derek walked back over to where she sat on the bed and sat close to her. Look at me, he softly coaxed.

Reluctantly, she turned to face him, but did not lift her gaze to him. Embarrassment was too heavy in her eyes.

Derek covered her hand with his allowing the warmth from her to spread up his arm and through his body. Look at me, he said again. It’s still me.

As if in slow motion, her gaze drifted up to meet his. Chestnut eyes were warmed with her soul, captivating him in a way he could not respond to. Like a deer in headlights, his sapphire gaze locked onto hers. Frozen, his chest tightened from an unfamiliar swell that rendered him breathless. In a moment, he was lost.

Yeah, but this time there’s a kiss between us. Everything’s changed since last year. She smirked at the thought of last year being only four minutes ago. Like magic, her hold on him was severed.

Derek chuckled, unsure of what had just happened. Yeah, a lot has happened since then. He looked down at their hands. I know we’ve been friends for a long time and I appreciate the friendship you’ve given me. But you have to know there was always something more there, under the surface.

‘Great. Here it comes.’ I know. At least I had hoped so, she managed to say, trying her best to hide her disappointment of being forever in the friend zone.

I’ve gone through a lot of women in my line of work. You know that. Making her see the reality of his life was necessary.

Genesis nodded. Every show, before Derek went onstage, he made it a point to disappear with some chick. It took her some time, but after a while, she managed to figure out what her mother meant by pre-game back stage. It never bothered her, since she and Derek had a special relationship and sex was never a thought …till now.

He drew in another deep breath and held it. There was something on his mind that needed to come out. Your mom would kill me if she knew what I was thinking right now. Cal would kick my ass. He thought for a second. Or maybe it’s the other way around. Either way, I’m taking a chance here.

Raising her gaze to his face, Genesis held her breath hoping he was not ready to say goodbye. They were friends and her parents knew that. Her mother knew how important her friendships were to her; so, he could not end their friendship because of Ainsley.

He dipped his fingers into his shirt pocket to pull out a platinum ring with a pear-shaped diamond set between diamond clusters. Twisting it around in his fingers, he examined it as if he were seeing it for the first time.

Confused, Genesis looked on.

I know this seems crazy and spur-of-the-moment, but I’ve been planning this for a while now. His gaze bore into hers. We have a connection that’s unique and I don’t want to lose that. He raked his fingers through his jaw-length, almost-black hair, exposing a perfect hairline edging his face. I know we’re not supposed to get involved until after you graduate in May, but you’re too important to me to take any chances of losing you to someone else.

I’ve lasted this long, she whispered, wanting to tell him she was making it a point to wait for him.

Something brilliant flashed in his eyes but was gone immediately. Too long, in my opinion. He thought about the men who had been chasing her while she was away at college. It seemed to him, every break from school, there was another guy hanging around her like a moth to a flame. The last thing he wanted to hope for was her holding off for him. We’re here in Vegas. Jason and your brother are right outside. I can call down for the chaplain and we can get married with them as our witnesses. I can’t think of any better way to start the new year together. His gaze locked her in its hold. It was crazy, but he knew it would work between them. They were best friends after all. He told her things he never shared with anyone else. Including Steve.

Genesis was shocked. A moment ago, she had believed he was disappointed in their first kiss. Waiting, she was prepared for him to tell her they would be in the friend zone forever. In no way, did she see this coming. ‘My mother, Cal and my father will kill me. Twenty-one years-old marrying a thirty-year-old rock star. How in the hell am I supposed to break that kind of news to them?’ Even though her mind screamed, her face gave nothing away. To the outside world, she was calm, collected and thinking like a sensible woman. Was marriage the right thing to do? She did, after all, have a lot to learn in the sex department. Was it fair to let him marry her without knowing what he was signing on for? Then again, isn’t it every man’s dream to marry a virgin?

She shifted, turning her body toward him. I have to tell you something.

His brow creased. ‘Is she getting ready to tell me she has someone already?’ Shoot. His response was short. His blue gaze intense under the shade of perfect eyebrows.

Shifting in her seat, she was unsure how to say it, so she thought it best to just spit it out. Kind of like ripping off a band aide. Squeezing her eyes closed, she just said it. I’ve never had sex. Waiting, she did not hear a response and slowly let her eyes open to find him staring her. The most peculiar look settled across his face.

He cleared his throat, happy she had waited. ‘It wasn’t crazy to think she held off for me after all.’ In the back of his mind, he always saw her as his. But with the nature of their relationship till now, he doubted she ever thought about him as a prospect. That’s a problem? he asked, trying to suppress a smile.

The curls over her forehead tumbled as she shook her head. I know you’re used to women who know what they’re doing so… her voice trailed off. She wasn’t used to being embarrassed about talking to Derek. Their conversations had always been open and free. Now, she felt like her tongue was no longer her friend.

He reached out and buried his fingers in her hair alongside her face. Don’t worry about that. The women don’t exist. This is just you and me. I know age is not the issue here. I know you, and you know me. We’ve pulled each other through some bullshit over the years. Don’t let sex mess this up. He dropped his hand away and his eyes searched her face. Let’s do this, Genesis. Let’s get married right here - tonight. Just tell me what I could do to make this easy for you.

Genesis looked down at his hand that held the ring. It looked small in a hand so big, but it was meant for her and her alone. In the time they had known each other, he had never brought a woman with him to a function. As far as she knew, he didn’t date. Yet, there he was, asking her to marry him.

In deep thought, she bit the inside of her cheek. There was no doubt about it, she wanted him. It had been especially tough through college to not be able to be with him. Wouldn’t she be a fool to say no? Her gaze drifted up his face past the dust of hair on his jaw, his full lips, his very regular nose and up to his intense, soul-captivating, sapphire eyes. Slowly, as if she had a secret, one corner of her mouth curled up. You really want to make this easy for me? she asked.

Whatever I can do, girl. He smiled slightly. All you need to do is ask for it and It’s yours.

Her lips puckered a bit without her realizing it, causing Derek’s eyes to settle on them. After just one kiss, like a fiend, he longed to have another taste.

Say it, Gen. I can’t give you what you want unless you tell me.

Her fingers lightly touched his hand that held the ring and her eyes lowered in her shyness. Make love to me.

Almost immediately, Derek’s mouth dried out. Always, he said softly as he watched her stroke his hand.

I mean right now. Right this minute.

He stood up suddenly and put some distance between them again. No, babe. Not before we’re married. He began to pace the room. The power of his long legs were apparent through his black jeans. Like a caged animal, his nerves would not allow him to stand still.

Genesis was taken completely by surprise. Every guy she came across wanted her in his bed, whether he knew her name or not. Why didn’t Derek? What does it matter if we do it now or an hour from now?

Everything matters. Turning on his heels, he glanced at her. We need to be married first. You’ve saved yourself for marriage, so why not wait?

I didn’t save myself for marriage, Derek. I saved myself for you. The high from the alcohol was beginning to wear off. What’s the problem?

Hands on his hips, mouth set in a thin line, he looked down at her. So, you don’t want to marry me? It was more like a statement than a question.

I didn’t say that. A crease appeared on her perfect brow. I want you now; unmarried, with us having the freedom to be us. I don’t want sex to be a duty. I want it to be something beautiful.

He leaned over and rested his hands on the tops of her knees before he knelt before her. Babe, it’s going to be beautiful regardless. We have a connection that won’t allow it to be anything but beautiful. He looked up into her face, begging her to understand.

Her eyes rested on his lips as he spoke, listening to every word he said. Beautiful. Yes, his mouth was beautiful with full, pouty lips. Her delicate fingers reached up to stroke a lock of his shiny, black hair which had been cut shorter from his annual, holiday haircut. It felt soft between her fingers, just as she had imagined it to feel…like silk. Lost in the closeness of him, she leaned in and kissed him. It wasn’t long before he was kissing her back and she opened her mouth to him and let him in. Right away his tongue went to work, kissing her with hunger. Heat rising in her face, she held onto the front of his shirt. His hand went to grip her chin, then slide down to her neck. She broke the kiss for air and exposed her neck to him as his lips moved to kiss under her jaw. She breathed in the scent of him. Clean and masculine, with soft undertones of sandalwood; and she loved sandalwood. The hand at her neck completely covered the whole front of her throat. His touch burned her and seemed to set her on fire.

Kissing behind her ear, Derek felt the heat of her breath brush against him. The hair on his neck stood at attention while the taste of her made him hunger for her. Pushing closer to her, she parted her knees and let him in. His hand rested at the side of her thigh where he could feel the heat of her skin. Smooth and tight, he caressed it, pushing the hem of her dress up with his hand. ‘Shit’ he thought, as he felt himself grow hard, ready for her.

Before he gave it another thought, he pulled away from her and jumped to his feet. His fingers combed back his hair to reveal the short and freshly lined sides. We can’t, Genesis. He had to control himself. For her sake, they had to stop. Turning his back to her, he adjusted his crouch.

Pulling at the hem of her dress, she stood to her feet. Forget it, Derek. Moving quickly, she headed for the door.

Catching her before she reached it, Derek gripped her arm to stop her. Gen, we can’t. I can’t.

Why not, Derek? Tell me why not? You want me to give up my youth and settle with you for a lifetime, but you can’t make love with me now?

He held her face between his hands and stared straight into her eyes. You know how many women I’ve had pass through my bed? Do you? I can’t let you be another number, baby. What we have is more than that and I want to keep it that way. It was crucial she knew how important she was to him.

No, Derek. I don’t believe you. If what we have is so special it won’t matter. Gripping onto his wrists, she tried to move away but he refused to let her go.

Genesis. He stopped her struggle to get free. You don’t understand. We can’t have sex. It needs to be more.

So you’re saying you won’t make love to me? Her eyes stared him down. So you would rather someone else have what I’ve saved for you?

That’s not what I’m saying. His sapphire gaze searched her face for signs of a joke.

Sounds like it to me. Her mouth set with determination.

So you won’t marry me. He dropped his hands from her face but did not move away. You claimed you saved yourself for me, but you won’t marry me. Stepping away, he turned his back to her again. All these years you’ve waited just to fuck me? Like every other chick out there, you just wanted my dick? The reality of his own words hurt him in a way he could not understand.

What? No! Genesis closed the distance between them and grabbed him by the arm to turn him to face her.

Right. His dazzling, blue eyes were filled with a new emotion she had never seen in them before. Was it hurt? Was it disgust? From where I’m standing, that’s how it looks.

 His face was stern but he still looked a bit younger than his actual age. No one would ever guess he was thirty. I thought you wanted me for me. You’re the only person I’ve ever let in and this is all you want from me? If that worked for me, Genesis, I would have married the first groupie who blew my fucking brains loose.

Go to hell, Derek! She stepped back like she had been struck. How dare he speak to her about some groupie sucking his dick. The sting of his words stung her eyes, filling them with tears. She wasn’t normally a crier but he seemed to strike the right nerve. We’re done here. Before you say anything else to hurt me, we’re done. Rushing to the bathroom, she closed herself in, locking the door behind her. How could he think that about her? How could he think she didn’t care for him?

Gen, his voice sounded close, at the other side of the door. Open the door.

No. Humiliated, she sniffled and quickly brushed the tears from her cheeks. I’ll take care of my virginity issue then call you to see if your offer still stands, she said thru the door. If you find it so repulsive to be the first, then I’m sure someone else will be glad to handle it for you. I apologize for offending you, she said venomously. Please forgive me, The cut in her tone surprised even her.

The doorknob jiggled. Genesis, open the door.

Will you go away, please? The night is young and I have a party to catch up to. The spite in her voice was thick. There is something I need to do. The last thing I want is for the statute of limitations to run out on your offer.

Genesis!

Go the fuck away, Derek! she snapped at the closed door, as her hands gripped the edge of the bathroom counter.

Silence. There was nothing more he could say to her to get her to understand. She meant much more to him than anyone else in his life. The fear of him touching her before she was his wife was his problem, not hers. Too many women passed through him and not one of them stuck around for a cuddle. Not that he ever wanted them to. He never cared. To him fucking was like breathing. He did it before a concert. After a concert. Before he slept. After he slept. Each and every one of those women were objects to him - things to handle and use to ease his own pain. His fear was letting Genesis fall into that category. He needed her to marry him first, binding them together with the promise of a lifetime. Not a night.

Please don’t do something you’ll regret later, he finally said. He knew all too well how impulsive Genesis was and how men could be.

Life is full of regrets, Derek. He could hear the tears in her words. That’s what builds character.

He leisurely moved away from the door to take a seat in the small sitting area. She had to come out eventually, and he would be there to let her know he did not mean what he had said to hurt her.

Genesis’ heart broke at the realization that the only person she cared deeply about had rejected her offer of sex. What was she to do now? Go find the first guy who didn’t repulse her and seduce him? Did she do that before or after she tells him she’s never had sex before? She looked at her reflection long and hard in the mirror. Almost a mirror image of her mother, she was good-looking. Rich, cinnamon skin with golden undertones, taller with longer legs, and a lighter brown to her hair gave her a look all her own. She appeared more wild, free and tropical. Appearance-wise, what was there not to like about her? Yeah, she was a bit crazy at times, but no one cared about that in the sheets. Especially with a body like hers.

There was no real reason for her to throw her youth away on getting married now. No way was she going to get tied down at this point in her life. If she stayed with anyone it will be because she chose to, not because she was legally obligated. She was a twenty-one-year-old woman now, and letting other people control her life had just come to an end. All her life she had been the obedient, dutiful daughter who let her family control everything she did. ‘Neither Derek or anyone else is going to dictate what I do from now on,’ she thought, determined to live life on her own terms. She was going to taste what the world had to offer her. Her mother got married straight out of college and look what it did to her?

Deciding her makeup was a bust, she washed her face and reapplied. By the time she was finished the deep red flush from crying was gone from her face. Picking up a spray bottle, she sprayed her hair with rose water to tame her frizzing curls. A fluff, and she was ready to take on the rest of the night.

When she opened the bathroom door, she expected her room to be empty, but instead, her eyes fell on Derek who sat waiting. Turning toward the door, she made a move for it but he was quick, blocking her way.

Gen, don’t walk out, he begged her. His eyes told a different story from before. He couldn’t let her leave. He had to find a way to make her understand.

Didn’t I say to leave? Chestnut eyes grew dark.

Derek leaned against the closed door. I want you, I do. It’s taking everything I have to not make love to you now. But we can’t. I have too much respect for you.

That’s fine. I’ve already decided what was going to happen. No worries to you. She crossed her arms under her chest. Her breasts strained at the neckline of her black and silver, sequined dress, drawing his attention to them.

You can’t do this. I can’t let you do this. He reached for her, but she stepped back before he could make contact.

"You can’t let me?" That did not settle well with her.

Gen, baby, I’m coming to you as a man whose asking you to marry him. Please don’t do this.

Do what, Derek? Give away what you, now, think is yours. I offered, and you turned me down. We’re not getting married tonight. Does that spell it out for you? You’ve made yourself clear about how you feel about making love to me. You’ve explained yourself very well. The last thing I want is for you to see me as a trick then feel guilty about it later. Swinging her hair, she let it settle to rest over her shoulder. Move, please. I’m young, free and twenty-one. I have a lot to catch up on, especially since you have ruined my high.

Thinking to himself for a moment, he decided there was nothing more he could say. There was nothing he could do to keep her there in that room. It was a matter of him letting her go or make love to her, and that, he didn’t trust himself to do. Stepping to the side, he allowed her to open the door. When she started to step thru to leave, he stopped her with a hand on her arm. Just hear me out.

His gaze rested on her lips for a brief moment before it lifted to meet her cold stare. I’m still here for you. You do what you feel you need to do, but know my feelings for you haven’t and won’t change. We are what we are to each other, and have been these past years. Friends. When you’re ready to talk, just call me and I’ll be there. Leaning in, he brushed her stubborn lips with a soft kiss then released his hold on her.

Listening to the fading steps of her four-inch heels, he licked his lips to taste her. A small taste that would remain with him for a long time to come.

2

The Light

I don’t care about what was expected of me. Genesis marched up the stairs. I’m too young to be tied down right now. When she reached the landing, she turned to face Jacob who followed behind her. You know you’re asking me to do the same thing Mommy did, right?

Gen, this is different and you know it. Jacob was trying his best to reason with her.

How is it different, Jakey? She turned to proceed down the hallway toward her room. Because he’s a rock star? Because he’s older?

Jacob rushed to catch up to her. No, Gen. He loves you and has for a really long time.

Reaching her room, Genesis turned to face her brother again. "Everyone loves me, Jakey."

Don’t be an ass, Gen. His sister had learned to be conceited. With all the attention her good looks got her, she saw herself as untouchable and it bugged him. The truth was, he was the one who kept the dogs away from her doorstep.

He stepped in and closed her bedroom door behind him. You’ve waited for this for a lot of years. He’s waited for this. Now when the time comes, you back down? It doesn’t make sense.

She laid back on her bed and stared up at the ceiling. I guess I was hoping for something more, I don’t know. Every guy that has chased me has come to me with flowers, dinner, romantic day trips and whatever else they could squeeze in with hopes of taking me out. He just walks in like I’m a sure thing.

It was a sure thing! Jacob was frustrated. The only reason those guys do all of that is because they’re trying to get in your pants. You know it and I know it! All he could keep thinking about was how disappointed Derek looked that night.

When Jacob had noticed his sister had rejoined the party, he quickly scanned the room for Derek. Not seeing him right away, Jacob had moved away from his current conversation so he could find out how things had gone with Derek and his sister. The women in his family were difficult and Genesis was no different. Spotting Derek leaning over the bar nursing a drink, he approached him. How’d things go, man? Jacob had asked him.

Derek shook his head and took a drink from his glass.

What? Jacob was surprised. Even though Genesis never discussed Derek, he knew Derek was the highlight of their coming twenty-first birthday. It meant she was legal and their mother could not say anything about whether she got involved with him or not. Shit, it took her two weeks of shopping to find the perfect dress for tonight when she already had a half-dozen good dresses in her closet. She said no?

Yep. Derek never looked at him but continued to drink. She has things to do first.

Things? What things?

He avoided looking at Genesis’ twin brother. She’s young, man. And I don’t blame her. If we’re going to be together, I want her to be sure I’m the right man for her.

Jacob leaned back against the bar next to him. I told you it wouldn’t be easy, but I still expected her to go along with it.

I told her I would wait.

Wait for what? For her to go through every man that can’t keep his eyes off her? She leads them all on and plays hard to get. Jacob shook his head. No, I’m not buying it. She hasn’t been got yet, if you feel me. He looked into Derek’s eyes with a silent message behind them. She’s been waiting, man. No guy has ever been able to match up to you.

It’s her call.

Derek looked away to watch Genesis through the reflection of the mirror behind the bar. The way she moved pulled at him. Now with him knowing how it felt to kiss and hold her, he found it almost impossible to stay away. If he was not careful, he would walk over to her, tell her he wants her now and lead her back to the room and make her his own. But he couldn’t do it. He had a shitload of history and baggage holed up in the closet that was his past.

Jacob slapped him on the back. I’m sorry, man. I can talk to her to try to find where her head is at. But she’s always been tight-lipped about you. All I know is what you tell me.

A slight smile played across Derek’s lips. It was encouraging to know she still didn’t discuss their relationship with anyone. Not even her twin brother. Naw, man. It’ll work itself out. I’ve waited this long, I can wait longer if I have to. His gaze followed her as she skirted her way around the crowd. She’s worth it.

With concerned eyes, Jacob looked over at his sister. She was no longer smiling but was slamming shots with Savannah and another one