Temptation Trials Rebellion

By B. Truly

Can love defeat the greatest temptation ... lust?

In a post-apocalyptic nation where the land of the free is now run under a dictatorship, there is one factor that holds the key to keeping world order—love. The new Regime controls the emotions of the heart. It’s their most vital law. At the age of twenty-one, every citizen is forced into an arranged marriage. The only way to escape the arrangement is to enter the Temptation Trials—a government-sponsored reality TV show where the loyalties of the contestants are tested by Tempters and Temptresses who are impossible to resist.

Catalina enters the Trials as a Temptress in hopes that she can win the funds to save her brother. Sahara’s been ridiculed in the eyes of the public. By being a Temptress, she’ll be able to have a fresh start. The Regime promises that if she fulfills her role on the show they will wipe her slate clean.

The problem is that the Trials are rigged for failure. In all the prior seasons, love’s rival, lust, has proven to be more powerful. No contestant has ever won the Temptation Trials and be allowed to stay with their chosen partner. Lutheran Eminence, the world’s dictator, has shown that he’s the ultimate matchmaker.

As the Temptation Ball approaches, conflict is at an all-time high. Most couples are too hurt by betrayal to reconcile. With the odds stacked against them, Kincade and Tobias try to mend their relationships, hoping that the greater good will prevail.
Attempting to uncover the true meaning of love may cost the contestants more than they bargained for—it may cost their souls.

• Language: English
• Publisher: B. Truly
• Release date: Nov 30, 2018
• ISBN: 9780463467640

Book preview

I

Autocracy

Chapter 1

A white picket fence with three kids, a loving husband, and a dog.

That’s not quite how I envisioned my life. I never imagined I’d be arranged to be married by law, either, or that I would be a Temptress on a government-sponsored TV show.

Catalina’s head was still reeling about the next step she’d have to take. Being on the show was her brother’s only chance, but he’d just encountered a relapse and she really didn’t want to leave him. Her madre came into the bedroom and screeched—nothing was packed. Cat just stared out the window into space.

Catalina, don’t you need to pack? Madre asked.

Cat nodded.

Madre glanced at the clock in a panic. You’re going to miss your flight to San Diego. We need to leave ASAP.

I wanted to spend a little more time with Cory.

I’m sure he’ll miss you.

I will miss him, too, Cat sighed. Madre … I’m not sure I should go.

Madre’s brow knitted. Mija, you have to. It’s the only chance Cory has. We’ll never be able to come up with the money in time.

But I won’t know how Cory’s doing.

He’s better for the time being… We both know that won’t last. Madre blew out her breath. The doctor said Cory has time, but he needs the research medicine before it progresses to the next stage.

The weight of a ton of bricks pressed against her chest—guilt that she had no choice but to go. What if the experimental meds didn’t work and she missed out on precious time with him? Cory seemed to be doing somewhat better, but he’d just been released from the hospital this morning.

The only way to be contacted on the island was if… No, Cat refused to let her mind wander there. She had to remain positive. On top of that, she wasn’t thrilled about being on the Trials. She was far from a fan of the hit reality show, but most of society respected the couples—the chosen candidates. The Tempt men more or less got a slap on the back, but the majority of the Temptresses got referred to as sluts or worse.

I know what’s at stake, Mom. I just wish this wasn’t the only way. I will go say bye to Cory, then I’ll pack. Cat shifted her weight. I don’t have much. My Tempt coordinator took me shopping for a whole new wardrobe last week, remember? It’s all being shipped to Oahu and will be waiting for me when I get there.

Her mother wasn’t listening, determined to get them on their way. She went into her closet, whipped out a tote bag, and started throwing things inside. Cat shook her head as she left the room.

Cat plastered on a bright smile as she entered her little brother’s bedroom. Cory looked so different from the vibrant boy she’d known a year ago. He’d lost weight. His cheeks were sunken. He lay in the bed, his complexion pale. When he saw his favorite sister as he always called her—his only sister, Cat would laugh—his eyes lit up. That made her feel better.

Hey, Cat. How’s my favorite sis?

I’m your only sister. How are you doing?

Better, now that you’re here.

Going over to his bed, she ruffled his hair. Aw, you’re so sweet, pooh-bear, but I came to say goodbye. She’d called him that since he was a baby, and it had stuck.

His face crumpled. Where are you going?

Remember I told you that I was going to be a contestant on Temptation Trials.

His face brightened again. Yeah, I remember now. That’s cool!

Not really, Cat thought.

You’ll get to be on TV. When will it air? All my friends will be jealous that my sister will be on television.

Cat bit her lip. It’s an adult show, pooh-bear. You have to be eighteen and up to watch.

Cory poked out his lips. Well, why do you have to go? Is it so you’ll have a shot at choosing who your husband will be?

Cat raised her eyebrows. This youngster did have insight on the show. That perspective was more in favor of the chosen couples. Well, it depended on if they still wanted to be together after the Trials were over. Thus far, no couple had yet to survive Temptation. Cory did know about the new Regime’s absurd law of arranged marriage at the age of twenty-one—there was no way around it.

That’s not quite how it works. Cat wasn’t about to tell him that she’d been chosen as a temptress—to tempt the chosen male candidates—whom some considered home-wreckers.

When will you be back?

Not for a few weeks.

We can just text each other, then.

I won’t be able to talk to anyone while I’m there.

His eyes grew wide. Why?

Those are the rules. I don’t like them either, but I have to play by them.

Cory crossed his arms.

Time will fly by, you’ll see—then I’ll be home in no time.

You promise?

Like most siblings, at times, Cory did get on her nerves. Cat was seven years older. For the most part they got along—Cory looked up to his big sis. After he’d gotten sick, it made her realize just how much she loved him. Cat would trade places with him if she could.

Leaning over, she kissed his cheek. You just focus on staying healthy until I get back.

Okay.

Cory hugged her tightly. She embraced him, not wanting to let go.

Chapter 2

Cat barely made her flight to San Diego. The eighteen couples had sailed to the Hawaiian Islands a few days prior. The male and female tempters met up in San Diego. From there, they all flew on a charter flight to the three different islands—Maui, Oahu, and Kauai. She had been assigned to Island Oahu. A van drove her and the other ten temptresses from the airport to the resort.

Despite Cat’s nerves, Oahu was the most beautiful place she’d ever seen. The aqua water was the prettiest blue. She couldn’t wait to take a swim, especially with the dolphins—number one on her list.

The landscape bloomed with vibrant flowers and plants. As they continued, an eerie blue mist began to infiltrate the area. It was an unexplained phenomenon that had been occurring for months, appearing throughout the entire globe. One strange thing about the mist was that its form was translucent. It also didn’t hinder your vision. Then there was the odd color blue. Cat was no meteorologist, but a fog was normally a grayish color—definitely not transparent. Another strange factor was that it would appear at any hour of the day, not only in the morning. As time passed, it began to occur more often and stayed for longer periods.

The media reported that the mysterious mist might be due to changes in the ozone layer. Meteorologists reassured the public that the fog was not related to earthquakes, hurricanes, tornados, or any other natural disaster. After a while, society seemed to accept their theories, going on with life. Most of the nation admired it as a beautiful phenomenon—snapping pictures and thinking it was the greatest thing since sliced bread.

Cat was still on the fence about it. The mist was the most gorgeous blue, but every time it appeared, she felt the hairs stand up on the back of her neck. A few women in the van remarked about it. Some of them seemed leery like her—others were gushing over it.

The resort loomed in the distance. Cat was just about to text her family to let them know that she’d arrived when she remembered that she didn’t have her cell phone. Everyone had to turn in all their electronic devices once they’d landed in Oahu. There was no communication allowed during the Trials. The temptresses would get their devices back in three weeks if they were not chosen as one of the final six contestants, or in six weeks if they were. Cat felt naked without her cell—not being able to communicate with anyone. There was no choice in the matter, and it would take a while to get used to.

I don’t see what’s so great about the blue fog, the temptress sitting next to Cat expressed. It’s pretty and all, but for whatever reason, it gives me the creeps.

I feel the same way, Cat agreed. Do you find it strange that we can see through it clearly?

That’s only one of many weird things about it.

I’m Catalina. Nice to meet you.

Sahara. Good to meet you, too.

Sahara sighed, peering out the window, appearing lost in her thoughts. They pulled into the long, circular driveway in front of the resort—a tall, luscious oasis. Cat was the last temptress to get off the van. The group followed the enforcers into the resort. The bellhops began to gather the women’s luggage, walking them to the elevators. Two male bellhops headed in Cat’s direction. She thought they would grab her luggage like the others had, but they waltzed right past her.

Placing her hand on her hip, Cat said, Excuse me?

Halting in their steps, they turned toward her. One man replied, How may I help you?

Can you help me with my luggage to my suite?

Sure thing, the same guy replied. As soon as our break is over.

She scrunched her nose. Okay, that’s fine, but do you know how long that will be? She could understand they needed a break, but Cat was tired from two flights and just wanted to get settled in.

The man who’d spoken shrugged—the other said, Not too long—a few minutes. One of the attendants should be down shortly from helping the contestants. If they’re not back before we are, we’ll take your luggage then. With that they went outside without a backward glance.

Alrighty…. Guess I have no choice but to wait. Those two don’t strive for excellence in customer service.

Cat twiddled her thumbs, taking in the luxurious hotel. The decor featured a beach theme. The sofas, chairs, coffee tables, and other pieces looked expensive. Enforcement lurked about. It was bizarre they all wore sunglasses inside. It must be a part of their Trials uniform. The enforcer in charge, Gonad, was touching the brim of his shades. A light emanated from them. He stood as still as a statue while he fiddled with the shades. Every so often, Enforcer Gonad would touch the rim or swipe his finger across thin air. At first, Cat was stumped, until she realized that he must be looking at something only he could see.

Enforcement was close by, guarding the area. The women were in conversation—the man was making rounds. Staff members were at the desk, going about their daily routines.

During the six weeks the show aired, the temptresses and six chosen male candidates would be the only guests at the hotel. As a popular tourist site, at least there would be plenty to do, from surfing to snorkeling and the list went on. The Regime was sponsoring the dates. Another perk was that all food in the downstairs restaurants was free. They only had to pay for essentials like hygienic products, sporting goods, or if they wanted to use one of the spa retreats.

Cat took a seat on the plush sofa in the large lounge area, which had an enormous flat-screen that looked over one-hundred inches wide. After waiting for twenty minutes, her nostrils flared. The two bell-hops had yet to return, and none of the others had, either.

Screw this! I’ll just take my luggage myself.

Irked that the staff had helped every temptress but her, she misjudged the steps to the elevator and tripped. Barely catching herself from faceplanting, Cat continued to struggle with her large tote bag and two suitcases.

She jumped, hearing a male’s voice. You got a load there. Need a hand?

Scrunching her nose, she whipped her head in his direction. A bellhop must have finally decided to help. She wasn’t in the mood for him to crack jokes. When Cat spotted the guy who’d addressed her, she lost her frown quickly. She tried not to ogle him, which proved difficult. His alluring gray eyes reminded her of platinum. They were so light that she felt he could see straight through her. She knew the men had already arrived. She’d just expected to meet them at the Intro party this evening—not bump into any of them blindly.

Gathering herself, Cat replied, Oh … hi. I thought you were a bellhop, trying to be funny.

What do you mean? His forehead wrinkled. Come to think of it, why aren’t they helping you?

"Two of them are outside on a smoke break. They told me they’d be with me in a minute. That was twenty minutes ago. Cat shrugged. I got tired of waiting. I want to get settled. I almost missed my flight to get to San Diego. She blew out her breath. More so, I’m just ready to get these six weeks over and done with."

He smirked. You just got here and you’re ready to leave?

Giving him a shy grin, she figured she sounded like a nutjob. Well … the sooner it’s over, the sooner I can go home.

He raised his eyebrow. She continued pulling her luggage. Let me help you, he offered, reaching for her two suitcases.

She smiled warmly. I would appreciate that.

He looked her over from head to toe.

Is he checking me out?

Cat’s heart raced. It shouldn’t please her—she was only there for one reason. As he was offering to help her, she should at least introduce herself. Extending her hand, she said, I’m Catalina, by the way. I take it you’re here for Temptation.

Yeah … you as well? She nodded. Nice to meet you. I’m Kincade.

He shook her hand. The contact sent an electric shock of pleasure through her body and he jerked his hand away, shifting his weight.

Did my touch repulse him?

Kincade grabbed her suitcases and Cat tagged alongside him to the elevators. When the doors pinged open, they walked inside.

What floor are you on? he asked.

Third floor, please. A current of energy sizzled through the air. He raked a hand through his dark, walnut-brown hair. Everything okay?

Yeah, I’m good. Just ready for the Trials to be over, too.

Cat sighed. I completely understand. My fingers are crossed there won’t be all the drama of the previous seasons. I just need the money.

His mouth fell open. That came out sounding funny, but Cat didn’t know if she had it in her to explain further. She led the way to her suite located at the far end of the hall. This is me. Thank you for your help, Kincade.

No problem.

I guess I’ll see you at the Intro party later tonight. His piercing gray eyes grew wide. He must not be looking forward to going, which was understandable.

At least you’ve already been introduced to one person.

She giggled. He’s a gentleman, too.

Well, I’ll let you get situated, Catalina. See you at the Intro.

Chapter 3

Sahara’s mind drifted back to that night—the night that still haunted her. She cringed as the memories overtook her.

…. Sahara peered around, a bit on edge as she waited for Calvin in the hotel lounge. He was visiting in their hometown of Atlanta, Georgia for business. They were going to have dinner in the downstairs restaurant.

She’d gotten all spruced up, wearing a trendy maroon cocktail dress—wanting to look her best for him. They had been high school sweethearts, and even now she couldn’t shake her feelings for Calvin.

Deep down, Sahara knew longing for him would only make things worse. Texting and talking over the phone had seemed harmless enough, but then he’d started asking to meet up in person. This would be their third time seeing each other, and she sensed continuing to do so would lead down a dangerous path.

Last time they’d only hugged goodbye, but she’d craved more. Sahara had seen the lust in his eyes also. Her heart pounded inside her chest. She damn near jumped out of her skin when a familiar, sexy male’s voice greeted her. When Sahara turned, laying eyes on Calvin, she exhaled. He still made butterflies swirl in her stomach. But that shouldn’t be the case—technically, he wasn’t hers anymore.

How are you? Calvin asked.

I’m good.

You look amazing, as always.

Sahara took in his tall, muscular frame. He’d always had the smoothest toffee-colored skin with very handsome facial features—a great smile and dreamy brown eyes. You look great as well.

I hope you haven’t been waiting for too long.

Nah, I haven’t been here long.

Shall we? He extended his arm.

Sahara took it and they strolled over to the restaurant in the hotel. They ordered, and it didn’t take long for the waiter to bring their drinks and appetizers. They made idle chit-chat while they dug in.

Calvin reached for her hand across the table. I’m happy you agreed to meet me for dinner. You’ve been a little distant lately, so I wasn’t sure you would.

Sahara sighed. It’s just hard for me, Calvin. I can never truly be with you, and only having a piece of you is torture.

Sahara, I … you know that I want to be with you, too. This isn’t my choice, it’s the law.

The bottom line is that you’re married now. If someone finds out and reports us, we’ll be penalized.

Calvin was a lot of Sahara’s firsts. Her first love—the first and only man she’d ever been intimate with. He was almost a year older than her. He’d been married off recently. Since then, it had been grueling. At first, Sahara wasn’t sure how she’d survive. They’d been in a relationship up until Calvin had gotten details about his future wife from the courthouse—the woman he was married to now.

Time was a ticking bomb for Sahara. She would be turning twenty-one soon, and then the government would choose her husband. This was a no-win situation that was bound to explode in their faces.

Why did the Regime have to enforce this ridiculous law? I guess the government wanted to show that they had absolute power. They were doing a fine job to be able to control who you loved.

The waiter chose that moment to interrupt—they both jumped. The server placed their food down. Sensing the tension in the air, he asked them if they needed anything, and then left quickly.

Having lost her appetite, Sahara picked at her food.

Calvin blew out his breath. It’s always been you, Sahara. If I wasn’t forced into marriage, then I would’ve married you.

Her breath caught. She wanted that more than anything. The reality was that it would never happen. Divorce was not allowed.

Calvin continued, I know this isn’t how you pictured our life, but if this is the only way that I can see you, spend time with you, then I’ll take it. I don’t want to lose you, Sahara.

I want to be able to see you, also… This just seems impossible.

Life is what you make of it. We may have to follow the rules, but the government can’t truly control our hearts.

True, but they can sure make a mess of them.

They finished their meal, neither saying much.

Come with me to the hotel’s courtyard. It has a garden and a waterfall. I think you’ll like it.

Sahara followed him to the atrium. There were a few guests roaming about. Sahara whipped her head from side to side, paranoid someone would notice them—report them. Once they arrived, her shoulders relaxed. The area was full of wonderful-smelling flowers. A huge water fountain stood out as a beautiful work of art. It was funny that the statue they’d chosen was Cupid, shooting water from his arrow. The glass ceiling was vaulted, and tonight you could see the stars. They were the only two there, making the moment more intimate.

Calvin turned toward her. Sahara, I still love you.

I love you, too, Calvin. But it doesn’t change our circumstances.

Let me show you how much you mean to me, sweetheart. Spend the night with me.

Seeing each other was dangerous enough. The fact remained that he was married, and soon she would be, too. Being sexually intimate was a line she knew that once crossed, that was it.

Staring into Calvin’s eyes caused her to waver—seriously considering spending the night with him. Leaning down, he kissed her forehead. He continued lower, aiming for her lips. Caught up in his love-spell, Sahara was seconds from giving in and saying, Fuck it. She wanted to live in the moment, consequences be damned. But the thought of who else Calvin had been kissing crossed her mind.

Right before his lips made contact, Sahara pulled back. Do you love your wife? She needed to know the truth—somehow it mattered. Maybe because that was what the reality was.

I do care about her. I won’t lie and say that I don’t, but I’m not in love with her. I haven’t known her long enough, and how can I truly be in love with her when I still feel this way about you?

There was one more question that Sahara had to know, something that she never dared ask before. You’ve had sex with her though, I’m sure. Calvin looked away and that was all the confirmation she needed. She couldn’t go through with this knowing that as soon as he returned home, his lips would be on her. He’d be inside her, too. Sahara wasn’t about to be his mistress, especially when her heart was on the line.

She stepped back. I’m sorry, but I can’t do this.

Calvin’s face crumpled. I want you so badly, but it doesn’t have to be tonight.

Sahara shook her head. No… I can’t do this, period.

His brow furrowed. What do you mean?

I don’t … think we should see each other anymore or talk over the phone.

He lifted her chin, forcing her to look at him. Pease don’t do this. Just because I care about her doesn’t mean that I love you any less.

His brown eyes seared her to the point that her heart really felt in pain. This was why she couldn’t go through with this. But you’d be okay with sleeping with us both?

Calvin flinched. It’s not like that. You’re the person that I would choose if I had a choice in the matter.

Though that might be true, it still didn’t change a damn thing. No matter how he tried to spin it, if she slept with him it would be an affair—Sahara would be the other woman. Her heart couldn’t take it. She had to end it now before it was too late.

She backed further away. I will always care about you, Calvin. I just can’t do this. I’m sorry… Please don’t call me anymore.

Turning on her heels, she almost ran from the hotel. She heard him calling her, begging her not to leave, but she didn’t turn back….

Sahara shook her head, attempting to rid herself of the dreadful memory. Involving herself with Calvin had been a mistake—a mistake that had cost her a lot—leading up to the situation that she was in now—being a temptress for Season 6 of the Temptation Trials.

This was a step she needed to take in order to have a clean slate. This was her one chance to make things right in her life again, even though she wasn’t thrilled about being a contestant on the show.

The world was still recuperating from war. Different news stations and the government-sponsored reality show were the only things aired on television—that was it—besides minimal sports channels, which only the upper class had privileges to. That was the reason Temptation Trials was a hit show—the entire nation watched it. All of Sahara’s dirty laundry would be aired. She hadn’t applied for the show to cause havoc in the chosen couple’s lives, but she figured she might be chosen to go on a date.

Sahara could go with the flow of harmless dating, and when it was over her record would be clean. Mingle with a few men, then she could return to her life in Atlanta and start over. No harm, no foul. With her head set straight on her shoulders, she took a deep breath and entered the Temptation Intro party—where she would meet the six chosen candidates of Season 6.

Chapter 4

The Intro party was being thrown downstairs in one of the party rooms. The theme featured a Hawaiian luau. There was a large tiki bar in the center, which looked like the real thing, just brought inside. Colorful furniture was spread around the area—chairs, loungers—all with an outdoor luau vibe.

Everyone ate hors d’oeuvres and began to mingle—the tense atmosphere eased up. Some of the men were talking with the temptresses. Sahara munched on more appetizers at the bar and started to feel more at ease. She’d met Travis, a handsome brunet. They chatted for a spell, and then the lady she had spoken with in the van came over.

Hi, again, she greeted.

How’s it going, Catalina?

Not fast enough, she joked.

You’re preaching to the choir. They both laughed.

You can call me Cat.

Will do. The party cranked up with island-themed music. Three of the women sashayed to the center of the room—a readymade dance floor—with the platinum-blond guy. Well, he seems to be feeling right a home.

I’d say.