The Lonely Hearts: Book 1

By Nyerra

After accepting her husband’s last name, Karina Newsome, never expected her life to take a turn for the worst. She gave her heart to Ivan Newsome, with hopes of living a long life of happiness, but unfortunately, he’d turned her world upside down. Karina is left devastated, with a heart so damaged that she considers murdering Ivan. However, her conscience won’t allow her to go through with it; so, she seeks a divorce as the next best option.
While preparing for her separation, she learns that the CEO of the company she works for is retiring and his son, Brandon Vapor, is taking over. Karina kept her lust for Brandon a secret for years, as she’d always respected her marriage. But now as a free woman, Karina can’t help but test the waters with Brandon. Will she succeed in finding a healthy home for her heart to reside, or will she drown while testing the waters too soon?

Kylie had always been by her best friend, Ryan’s side, even after he moved out of his drug addict mother’s home to better himself. When a situation occurs that forces Kylie to stay away from her sister’s home, she moves in with Ryan, and with them being so close, it makes it hard for their hidden feelings not to be revealed. As their young hearts fall in love, Ryan is secretly hiding his addiction to painkillers, while silently suffering from an unknown sickness he’s been fighting for years. Not wanting to worry Kylie with his illness, he relies on his longtime friend, Ashley, to keep him stocked with meds. But when Ashley decides to confess her feelings for Ryan, their situation becomes extremely complicated.

They say true love shall never remain a part, and if only the strong survives, who will remain with a lonely heart?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Nyerra
• Release date: Nov 5, 2018
• ISBN: 9780463640739

Nyerra

The Lonely Nights: Book 2 Is Available Now On Amazon.com

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The

Lonely

Hearts

Book 1

Written By Author:

Nyerra

Copyright © 2018 Nyerra

Published by Blue Sanity Inc.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form without permission from the author.This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, business, places, events, and incidents, are the product of the Author’s imagination or are used fictionally. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or events, are entirely coincidental.

Chapter One

Karina sat at her desk with her mind all over the place. She was supposed to be working, but she couldn’t help but think about her failing marriage. For the past nine months, she’d been trying her hardest to hold on to her relationship with her husband, Ivan. But something was steady pulling them under.

Karina knew exactly what that something was, and although she was tempted to cut the bitch, she finally decided to take another route. It was Ivan who was breaking her heart, not his side chick; so in that case, he was the one who deserved to suffer.

A knock on her office door quickly gained her attention. Come in.

In walked her best friend, Dana, who also worked at Vapor Enterprises. The company started as an underground business years ago, built from the ground up by the CEO, Brandon Vapor Sr. The company specialized in stock investing, owing several percentages of smaller company shares. They started off buying individual shares, but eventually expanded in order to involve themselves into the stock trading waters.

Hey, honey, Dana greeted, taking a seat in front of Karina’s desk.

Hey, Karina responded dryly.

Oh, God, Dana stressed with wide eyes. What the hell did Ivan do now?

Karina sighed. She hated that folks were able to tell what was wrong with her before she could even go into detail. He hasn’t been home in two weeks.

"What? Oh hell no, Karina! Look, I know you’re trying to fight it, but girl, it’s time for you to take care of your heart and bounce on his sorry ass. He doesn’t deserve you. Let that raggedy bitch he’s creeping with deal with him. I’m sure they’ll be each other’s karma."

I just hate to see my marriage fail, Dana. I was such a good wife to that man. I’m seriously thinking about killing him.

Dana couldn’t help but chuckle. Now as good as that sounds, you know you can’t do that. His life isn’t worth your freedom. The best thing you can do is file for divorce and move on from him, girl. Trust me.

Karina sucked her teeth. She knew Dana’s advice was correct, but her urge to kill Ivan sounded more satisfying.

Karina, Dana stated, noticing the look on her face. Listen, if you’re serious about killing the man, at least come up with a smart plan first. Hell, I can tell by the look in your eyes that you’re dead ass serious.

He deserves to die for all he’s done to me.

I agree, but I think he’ll get the karma he deserves. God don’t like ugly. Anyway, enough about that dirty bastard husband of yours. I came in here to see if you’ve heard about whose coming to Vapor Enterprises today?

No, who?

Dana’s lips contorted into a sneaky grin. You need to start reading your emails, girl. Brandon Vapor will be in the building at noon.

Butterflies instantly invaded Karina’s stomach at just the thought of Brandon Vapor. He was the CEO’s son and also the brand ambassador for Vapor Enterprises. Not to mention a walking snack to every woman who ever laid eyes on him. He was the true definition of tall, dark, and handsome. Karina lusted over him plenty of times, but never had she made a move on him, as she always respected her marriage.

What is he here for? she wondered.

He’s holding some random town hall meeting.

Why are you grinning like that?

Dana laughed. You know why. Because your ass has been wanting Brandon for the longest and now that you’re finally seeing Ivan for who he is, maybe you’ll look into giving Brandon a shot.

Dana, I can’t be messing with the CEO’s son. That’s not a good look, and did you forget that I’m still married?

Did being married stop Ivan from going out and getting his dicked sucked by Becky and Sue? I don’t think so! You need to start living more spontaneous, Karina. You’ve let this marriage drain you girl and I just wanna see that light back in your eyes.

Karina understood where Dana was coming from, but she wasn’t sure she could live her life like that. Dana was more on the wild side, while Karina was always the more conservative one. She liked to do things by the book to avoid future conflict; but that didn’t seem to save her marriage.

Hmm, she thought as she opened her laptop and finally began reading her emails.

Look, I gotta go take care of a few things, so I’ll catch up with you at the town hall meeting. Just think about what I said. Don’t let Ivan leave you with a lonely heart.

Karina looked up from her computer and smiled at her friend. I’ll keep that in mind.

***

Good afternoon everyone, Brandon greeted, as he stood at the end of the table that seated twenty-five people. I know this meeting was last minute, but I greatly appreciate your presence.

Karina swallowed the lump in her throat as that last statement left his lips. He was speaking to the entire room, however, he was looking directly at her when he stated, I greatly appreciate your presence.

She couldn’t deny how handsome he looked in his loafers, black slacks, black tie, and white button down. His fade was freshly cut, and so was his neatly trimmed beard. Brandon’s swag could be described as an educated thug. Karina could tell he came from the hood and made something from nothing.

A black man who overcame the struggle, she thought to herself. It was beyond attractive to her, but as always, she chose to keep that to herself.

I have an announcement to make that I chose to do in person for several reasons. My father has given this company twenty wonderful and successful years and has finally decided to put Vapor Enterprises in my hands. He’ll be retiring at the end of the month and I’ll officially be the new CEO.

The entire room filled with applauses and Karina felt Dana kick her under the table.

I have a question, Dana spoke. Does that mean you’ll be moving to Oakland?

That’s correct, Brandon confirmed. I’ll be relocating from the office in New Jersey and this will be my permanent location.

Another kick under the table from Dana.

"Chill!" Karina harshly whispered as everyone proceeded to congratulate Brandon on his new position.

Dana giggled and the meeting continued with Brandon announcing all the new changes that would come along with his presence. Twenty minutes later, the meeting concluded and he politely dismissed everyone. Karina grabbed her belongings and followed behind Dana as they made their way out.

Karina, do you mind staying for a moment? Brandon questioned. There’s something I need to discuss with you.

Karina was hella’ nervous as she replied, Sure.

"Spontaneous," Dana whispered with a wink before leaving the room.

Brandon waited until it was just the two of them before he began speaking. He placed his hands in his pockets and told her, You can have a seat.

She nervously reclaimed her spot that she’d sat in before. Is there something I did wrong?

No, not at all. In fact, the reason I wanted to talk to you pertains to how excellent your work has been around here. I get all the VP reports weekly and I’m very impressed with your numbers, Karina.

She released a breath of relief. Thank you.

"No, thank you. My father and I appreciate hard workers like yourself and the effort you put forth to support the company doesn’t go unnoticed."

Karina gave him a half smile while pushing a piece of hair behind her ear. He was staring at her with those dark brown eyes that would mesmerize any woman who didn’t have any self-control. The bad thing about it was that she didn’t even believe that he was purposely doing it. Brandon Vapor was just eye candy for the soul.

I wanna offer you a higher position, Karina, he said, breaking her trance.

Wha…wait, huh?

You heard me correct. You’re outdoing yourself times ten and in my opinion you deserve to be in a higher position, making a higher salary.

Brandon…

He walked closer to her and leaned against the chair that was next to hers. I’m the CEO now and I take great pride in leadership and a strong work ethic. Vapor Enterprises is in need of a new Vice President and if you want the job, it’s yours. You don’t have to make a decision right away. Take some time to think about it.

Karina’s eyes lit up. She couldn’t believe what Brandon had just offered her. Vice President of Vapor Enterprises would triple her salary. And with the pending thought of a divorce, this couldn’t have come at a better time. Karina was positive that Ivan would make things as hard for her as possible once she had him served.

Oh my goodness, thank you! She got up from her seat and without thinking, she wrapped her arms around him, embracing him tightly. I can’t believe this!

You’re welcome.

Karina froze for a moment as his deep voice spoke in her ear, reminding her how close they actually were. She quickly pulled back from him, only to be held captive by those sexy brown eyes of his. She didn’t understand how someone could be so effortlessly attractive.

I um…I’ll— Brandon smiled and Karina’s knee’s damn near gave out. He had a slight lisp, but that didn’t stop his pearly whites from shining.

Just think on it for a little bit, he suggested. Make sure it’s the right move for you. Contact me by the end of the month with your decision and we’ll make the necessary changes based on what you decide to do. No pressure, okay?

Okay. Thank you again, Brandon. Really, this is more than I could ever ask for.

You didn’t have to ask, he reminded her before walking around the table to grab his things. I’ll see you around, Karina.

Yeah, see you around.

She watched him leave the room and once he was gone, she let out a deep breath. She still couldn’t believe what he had offered her. She appreciated the time he gave her to think about it, but in all honesty, she didn’t need it. There was no doubt in her mind that she was going to accept the position as Vice President of Vapor Enterprises. Wow, won’t he do it? She thought as she finally left the conference room.

***

Kylie! Karina shouted as she walked into her home.

I’m in the kitchen.

After hanging her pea coat in the closet, Karina made her way into the kitchen and found her younger sister, Kylie, in the middle of baking a cake. What’s the occasion?

Kylie smiled. It’s Ryan’s birthday.

Karina couldn’t help but smile as well. That’s sweet of you, Ky.

It’s the least I could do. You know none of his family hasn’t even contacted him today? That’s so messed up. I hate that he’s so lonely.

Lonely, but not alone, Karina stated. He has you.

Karina made the decision to move Kylie into her home when she turned eighteen so that she could attend The University of Oakland. Their parents lived in Virginia, but they stayed in touch with frequent phone calls and monthly visits.

One night while sitting on the porch, typing a ten-page paper, Kylie laid her eyes on Ryan. He was walking two pit bulls while drinking a Smart Water. Kylie was staring at him pretty hard and he questioned what she was looking at. However, his tone was a bit hostile which caused her to respond with a smart alec reply. They ended up getting into an argument and Ryan eventually walked off.

But one week later, he saw her at a nearby gas station and decided to apologize for their argument. He explained that he lived in the neighborhood and didn’t speak to a lot of people, so it concerned him when people looked at him because he didn’t know their intentions. Kylie accepted his apology, and from that day on, they’d remained really good friends.

Whenever he walked his dogs and she was outside, he would stop and make light conversation with her. Eventually those conversations got longer and turned into phone conversations. And before they knew it, their friendship had progressed into something so serious that they claimed each other as best friends.

He texted me and told me he got the keys to his apartment.

Well, look at that, Karina grinned. Sounds like an amazing birthday present to me.

Yeah, he couldn’t wait to leave his mom’s house. Kylie put the cake in the oven and went to the sink to wash her hands. So, how was work?

You’re not gonna believe this, Ky. Brandon Vapor is our new CEO and he wants me to be the Vice President of Vapor enterprises.

Stop lying!

I wouldn’t lie about this. He’s basically been monitoring my numbers and I guess he’s impressed with me.

Kylie rushed toward her sister and hugged her. I’m so happy for you! You really deserve this, Karina. You work so hard and I knew one day it would pay off.

Thanks. It’s just happening so fast.

An awkward silence suddenly filled the kitchen. A part of Karina wished she could be coming home to her husband to share the good news; but unfortunately, those days were gone. She walked to her fridge to grab a bottle of water.

Has Ivan been here?

He was here earlier, but not for that long, Kylie revealed. He left with some bags.

How many? Karina wondered.

Two, maybe three.

I know that bastard isn’t trying to sneak and move out without telling me, Karina thought. Her entire mood changed as she headed upstairs and prepared to shower. While opening her drawers, she noticed that most of Ivan’s things were gone. It was at that point she realized that he was indeed trying to leave her without notice.

Karina refused to let him get away with this. The least he could do was be man enough to tell her that it was over. The way he was playing with her heart triggered the worst in her and she hated it. But Ivan would hate it even more one the after effects of a woman scorned kicked in.

Chapter Two

Kylie opened the door for Ryan and stepped aside so he could walk in. It was a little past ten at night, but it was still his birthday.

Hey, old ass, Kylie joked, hugging him.

Chill, Ryan told her. Twenty is when life officially begins.

I know. I’m just messing with you. I made you something.

They headed into the kitchen and Kylie followed Ryan’s eyes as they landed on the cake she baked him. She had it sitting on the kitchen table with twenty unlit candles sticking in it.

I know it’s corny, she said, but my parent’s always make sure me and my sister have a cake on our birthday. It’s like a family thing. I figured I would make you one since…well, you know.

Since my family ain’t shit?

That’s not what I meant, Ryan.

I know, I’m just putting the facts out there. I preciate’ this, Ky. Come here.

Kylie stepped into his personal space and they shared another hug. She would never understand what the small gesture meant to Ryan.

You’re such a real nigga, he joked, but was serious at the same time.

Stop calling me that, Kylie fussed, pushing away from him. I’m hungry and I wanna cut this cake.

Fat ass. He smacked her butt and she grinned. Go ahead. You made it.

But it’s yours.

Ryan stuck his finger in the cake and licked the icing. Come to my apartment with me tonight, Ky.

Kylie gave him a sneaky grin.

Relax, girl. Ain’t nobody trying to fuck you. I just wanna chill with my best friend in my new spot tonight.

Why is your mouth so filthy?

Ryan laughed. I just say what’s on my mind. So, you coming with me or what?

Kylie crossed her arms and pondered her thoughts. It was Friday night, so she didn’t have any classes the next day. If her presence was how Ryan wanted to end his birthday, then she honestly had no problem with that. She loved being around him anyway. Even though his mouth could be harsh at times, Ryan’s personality lit up her life at times. There was a reason they considered each other best friends.

Let me go tell Karina I’m leaving and pack some clothes.

Bet, Ryan nodded. I’ma pack up this cake while you doing that. Soon as I smoke a blunt, it’s over for this shit.

Kylie laughed and headed upstairs. She knocked on Karina’s door and patiently waited for a response.

Come in! Karina shouted.

Hey, Kylie said, opening the door. I’m about to go over Ryan’s. I’ll probably be back in the morning or something.

Okay.

Kylie could tell that her sister was hurting and it pained her to see her like that. She walked over to her bed and sat on the edge. Sis, I’ve never said anything, but I’ve always thought you deserved so much better than Ivan. He’s a piece of shit. I don’t even speak to him anymore because of how he treats you. You’re a beautiful black queen and you deserve a king, not a peasant.

A smile found its way to