Helios Exposed: The Helios Chronicles, #2

By T.M. Witko

The Helios Chronicles is an adult romance series that follows the lives of Andrew 'Helios' Harrison and Madison Ellis as they fight for their love in a world set on tearing them apart. In Book 2, Helios Exposed, we will find out whether or not Andrew and Madison can survive a life in New York City, where they find that things aren’t as simple as they hoped they would be. They soon discover that there are just as many enemies back east as there were on the west coast. When everything begins to crumble around them will their love be enough to hold them together?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Winyan Press, LLC
• Release date: May 21, 2017
• ISBN: 9780998113449

Book preview

Book Two in the Helios Chronicles

HELIOS

Exposed

By

T.M. Witko

Copyright All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof

may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever

without the express written permission of the publisher

except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

Printed in the United States of America

First Printing, 2017

ISBN 978-0-9981134-4-9 (ebook)

ISBN 978-0-9981134-5-6 (paperback)

Winyan Press Full Logo

Tampa, Florida

Copyright © 2017 Winyan Press, LLC

Cover Art © Alex Marin

DEDICATION

This book is dedicated to all my friends and family who have encouraged me over the years but especially to my Helios h00rs, you know who you are ☺.

PREFACE

I WOULD LIKE TO TAKE a moment to thank all of my friends and family that have encouraged me to write over the years. Your support means the world to me. And yes, I know I shouldn’t have, but I let Deanna read Helios. She promised me that she skipped the naughty parts...LOL. She does love Andrew, hates his parents, and refuses to say Jimmy or his father’s name. I trained her right ☺.

To my partner in crime, Mindy Marin, thank you for all that you do; not only for our company, but also for what you do for me as a friend. Love you so much!

To our Winyan Press illustrator, Alex Marin, seriously, dude I love your art and you are pretty awesome yourself. What you have done with my covers and bringing my Helios to life has been nothing short of amazing.

To my long time editor, Amanda Rash, thank you for everything you have done for me on this writing journey. I can’t imagine doing this without you by my side. You are the best and I love you!

To my lovely friend Corinne, my maske’ from across the pond, whether we talk daily or not, you will always hold a special place in my heart. No distance could take that away. To Tamara, thank you for always encouraging me to write and pushing my stories on anyone who would listen... LOL, love you girl! To my amazing fandom friends: Brenda, Rachelle, Leeanne, Tamara, Amanda, Corinne, Michele and Carrie. You ladies have served as my Helios Reading Group, affectionately known as my Helios h00rs. From the beginning, your input and support has been invaluable. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! And Brenda, yes, I know that you are STILL the original Helios h00r and that you called dibs on him a very long time ago. 

Last time I thanked Bobby Long for serving as the soundtrack for the Helios Chronicles. Trust me folks, his music is amazing. His last CD came out when I was redoing this story and it fit so perfectly. If you have never heard of him, go YouTube him. You won’t regret it!

Okay, now that the pleasantries are done, let’s get to the nitty gritty of this particular book. It is the second in a series of three books that will chronicle the life and times of Andrew ‘Helios’ Harrison and Madison Nicole Ellis as they traverse the difficulties of loving one another in a complicated world that throws unbelievable obstacles in their way.

In book two, we will be introduced to a whole new cast of characters. Of course, our faves from California will still be present but now we have New Yorkers to add to the mix. I guarantee that there are a few that you will not like one single bit, or maybe you will, who knows. This book will take us to New York City where Andrew and Madison will try to start their new life together.

In book one, we watched them fall madly and deeply in love with one another. It wasn’t easy with court and the possibility of being sent back to prison looming in the way, but they did. At the end of book one, they decided to start their life in New York. How will that go for them? In New York, Madison was being fast tracked towards a managerial position. Will she be able to balance both her ambition and her love for Andrew? What about Andrew? There are definitely more jobs in New York but will his status come into play? Was coming to New York in his and Madison’s best interest? This is a question that Andrew must continue to wrestle with if their love is to survive. There are a lot of things to figure out as they attempt to nurture their relationship in a town that has just as many enemies as California did.

So are you ready to find out what comes next in Andrew and Madison’s journey? Come along, let’s get this party started!

CONTENT WARNING

Please be advised that this story contains graphic language and situations that are not suitable for younger audiences.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Winyan Press, LLC would like to acknowledge the following individuals for their contributions on Helios Exposed.

Leeanne Lemaster, Proofreader

Alex Marin, Graphic Artist/Illustrator

Amanda Rash, Copy Editor

Table of Contents

DEDICATION

PREFACE

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

PROLOGUE

1 Friend’s Day

2 Farewell Gathering

3 On the Road

4 Ghosts of Detroit

5 Welcome to New York

6 The Ice Queen

7 Enemies At The Gate

8 Darkness Within

9 Thanksgiving

10 21 Club

11 Christmas in New York

12 Friendship Goals

13 Unleashed

14 Loss

15 Walls Closing In

16 Tumbling Down

17 Lonliness

18 Resolve

19 Demons Inside

20 Dead End

21 Shattered

22 Reunited

23 Moving Forward

24 Home Sweet Home

25 Cause to Celebrate

26 Christmas Cheer

27 New Venture

28 Gift of Life

29 Freedom

AUTHOR NOTE

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

CONTACT INFORMATION

A Bitter Cold

PROLOGUE

6 Weeks Ago

THE LAST DAY OF THE festival consisted of a huge beach extravaganza. Madison and Andrew were amazed by the many booths and vendors that encompassed the park overlooking the beach. Of course the Bennett’s were VIP’s, so they were allotted early entrance into the festival and a separate shaded area to sit. The afternoon was filled with more wine and food than Madison ever imagined was possible, and lots and lots of laughter.

You know, I’m not a wine drinker but I have tried some great stuff since being here, Andrew said as he sipped his wine.

I have too. I’m going to hate to leave this place, Madison concurred, squeezing Andrew’s free hand.

This is one of our favorite festivals, Liam stated. The surroundings are breathtaking, the people are kind, and the atmosphere is welcoming.

Plus, we always have some down time to play, Jayden interjected.

Speaking of which, what are your plans for the evening? Elias asked.

Callie wants to hit up Tonic tonight, Jayden said and then looked over at Madison and Andrew. You guys want to come?

Madison glanced at Andrew who looked ambivalent. That wasn’t exactly what Madison had in mind for their last night.

I kind of want to hang at the beach tonight and watch the sunset. Is that alright? Madison asked, not wanting to upset her friends.

Of course it’s alright, that sounds very romantic, Callie said sweetly as she hugged her. Don’t forget to bring an extra blanket to cover yourself up, she whispered in her ear and Madison couldn’t help the grin that spread across her face at the realization that Callie knew exactly what she wanted to do.

What about you two? Andrew asked curious.

Oh, I think we will just relax indoors tonight, maybe light up the fireplace, Liam said, glancing at Elias who gave him a sexy smirk.

Well, that sounds pretty good, Madison said with a smile.

When the event ended, they all went their separate ways, Callie and Jayden to get ready to go clubbing while Elias and Liam were headed to their suite for a romantic night alone. Madison snatched the duvet off the bed and then the lighter blanket in the closet. Andrew was watching her peculiarly.

What are you doing? Andrew asked, curious.

I want us to go down to the beach. The sun will be setting soon.

He smiled and grabbed the duvet and blanket from her. Are we supposed to take these out of the room? he asked as they entered the elevator.

Madison shrugged. Probably not, but... she paused and got a mischievous glint in her eyes. We are the very special guests of the Bennett’s and the manager said we could do anything we wanted. She winked.

I’m not sure that’s exactly what he said, but you’re right, that guy was kissing Elias' ass so much I’m a bit surprised Liam didn’t smack him, telling him that ass was his, Andrew laughed.

Madison snorted. I know. Well, what can we say? We are in the company of rock stars.

They made their way down to the beach, no one stopping them to ask why they were bringing the presumably expensive bedding of the hotel outside. The sun was just starting to drop below the horizon as they laid out the duvet and sat down. Madison drew her knees up and wrapped her arms around them.

It’s breathtaking, isn’t it? she asked dreamily.

Andrew smiled at her, running his hand down her spine before looking out at the sunset. It truly was magnificent. He had never really paid much attention to the setting of the sun, aside from the fact that it marked nighttime. He had always dreaded the night because bad things happened at night and usually if he hadn’t found a place to crash by sunset, he knew he was sleeping on the streets. But this was different, watching it with Madison. Her face expressed all the awe and wonder of someone who had always been loved and cared for. She saw beauty in the world and in him and it amazed him that in spite of everything, she knew she still wanted him with her.

It’s almost as beautiful as you, Andrew finally replied as he kissed her temple.

She turned towards him, reaching one of her hands to cup his face. He brought his lips to hers, unable to stop the force that always drew him to her. Their kiss was filled with all the passion and love they felt for each other. He laid her on the blanket and settled between her legs as he brought the blanket up and over them. Madison wanted him, but more than that, she needed him, always.

I love you so much, Andrew, Madison stated as she grasped his face in her hands.

And I love you, just as much, Madison, he replied before their lips touched once again.

They kissed sweetly yet fervently under the stars, the ocean serving as the soundtrack to their lovemaking. They weren’t sure if anyone else was around but neither cared at that point. All that mattered in that instant was each other and the life they would be sharing together. Madison knew that things would be different in New York, but she couldn’t help but feel optimistic about the journey they would soon be on.

1 Friend’s Day

IT HAD BEEN SIX WEEKS since the decision had been made to move, and the time seemed to be flying by. Madison and Andrew spent every night together and most weekends with Jayden and Callie. It seemed as if every weekend they were off for several hours here and there, just to spend as much time together as they could before the inevitable departure arose. Madison glanced towards the bathroom and set her coffee down. She made her way to the door and knocked on it gently.

Grans, how ya doing in there? Madison asked at the bathroom door.

I’m fine, Maddie, her grandmother hollered over the roar of the shower.

Madison smiled and walked back to the dining room and sipped her coffee. Her grandmother had improved significantly. She got around with little to no help from her granddaughter anymore. Although Madison was ecstatic about this, she was also a bit sad as it proved to be a clear indicator that time had indeed sped up. When Dr. Meyers informed them two weeks ago that her grandmother had healed as completely as someone her age could and that she didn’t need anyone staying with her anymore, Madison’s heart sank and her stomach turned. The date was now set. Labor Day weekend, she and Andrew would leave. Madison glanced up when she heard the shower stop. She listened closely; making sure her grandma was not struggling in any way. Not hearing any sounds indicating her needing help, she turned to the door, hearing a knock.

Are you ready? Callie asked, bouncing in place.

Madison smiled. Yeah, hold on a second, let me tell grans I am heading out.

Is that your friend, Maddie? her grandmother asked from behind the bathroom door.

Yes, we are getting ready to leave. Are you sure you don’t need any help? Madison asked.

Maddie, go, have fun. I will see you tonight.

Madison sighed and walked away. Callie linked arms with her as they left the house. Today was individual friend’s day, as Madison liked to call it. It was Madison’s alone time with Callie and Andrew’s alone time with Jayden. The boys had decided that they were going to ride motorcycles while Callie and Madison had decided they wanted to spend their time shopping and pampering themselves a bit before the going away party later that evening. Madison and Andrew were leaving early in the morning so that they would have four full days to get to New York. Madison was proud of the fact that Stella could indeed pull Andrew’s Harley, although she had to install a tow hook for it to happen, something that Andrew and Jayden had taken care of last week before they spent one last weekend frolicking at Lake Isabella.

I think I’d like to get Andrew a suit. I mean, I love the way he dresses, but there are occasions where I will want him to attend work functions with me and he will need a suit, Madison said casually as the two women strolled through the mall.

They had already bought several new items and had pampered themselves with manicures and pedicures along with a haircut. They had even picked out a few items from Intimates to surprise their men with. Of course, Madison would have to wait on that since Andrew would be spending his last night at his aunt and uncle’s house.

I don’t know, Madison. You should probably do that in New York when he’s with you. Once, I bought Jay a suit and it fit him all wrong and Liam pulled me aside, told me that men need to be fitted for a suit the first time and then once you have their measurements, you can pretty much buy any suit you’d like and it will look good. She shrugged and then smiled. Then he gave me Jay’s measurements. He was very sweet about it and told me what a kind gesture it was for me to do.

Hmm, well, that’s a good point. Liam and Elias would definitely know about suits. Those men dress impeccably. Alright, well, I will definitely need to take him somewhere. Maybe I can ask one of the guys in the office where the best place to buy a nice suit is.

Are you nervous about leaving? Callie asked quietly.

No, I’m just... Madison sighed and glanced at her friend. I hate the idea of leaving. I’m gonna miss my grans like crazy and I’m gonna miss you and Jay just as much. I wish I could just take you all with us, she said looking down.

Madison, Callie said, placing her finger underneath Madison’s chin and lifting her head up. Friendship and love aren’t things you can really see, it’s something you carry in your heart, she said as she tapped her own heart. So it doesn’t really matter where we are or how far away we may be at any given moment, what we feel inside and our friendship will remain.

Madison nodded as tears streamed down her face and she wrapped her arms tightly around Callie. They held each other for several minutes before finally giggling at the fact they were in a mall crying in front of an Abercrombie and Fitch store. Callie held Madison’s hand firmly.

Let’s go eat a truck load of ice cream and pretend that you aren’t leaving tomorrow, Callie suggested with a wide grin.

Madison smiled as she wiped under her eyes with her free hand. Sounds like a perfect plan.

JAYDEN AND ANDREW HAD ridden all through the mountains before Andrew took him to the spot that he always took Madison. Andrew was a bit hesitant but he felt like it was something he needed to share with Jayden as he had been thinking about it for quite a while now. Andrew pulled over and smiled at the fact that he parked in the same spot he always parked with Madison. He got off and waited for Jayden before walking a little bit ahead of him.

What are we doing here? Jayden asked, coming up next to him.

Andrew sat down near the edge of the same canyon he and Madison had looked over the very first time he brought her here. Jayden sat down next to him, looking out across the small canyon.

Wow, that’s some view.

I brought Madison here after the lake incident, after your parents bailed me out. Andrew smiled and licked his lips, remembering his and Madison's first time. We had sex on my Harley over by that tree, he said, motioning his head towards where they were parked.

Jayden chuckled. No shit!

Andrew smirked at him and nodded before turning back to the scene before him. I used to come here to sketch all the time, but now when I come here, all I see is Madison, Andrew said with a wry smile.

Jayden grinned and watched as Andrew looked on, seemingly lost in thought.

When I first got out of prison, I never left my room. I spent the first year only leaving to eat, go to the bathroom, and to see my PO. Andrew shook his head. It was like I was still in prison, except my room was now my cell. After Jimmy caused trouble for me, I couldn’t get a job in town, so I was working pretty minimally wherever Aaron could find something for me, he said with a sigh.

Jimmy’s always been an asshole, Andrew. All through school he acted like he was better than everyone else. He hated me with a passion because he knew I didn’t care what he thought of me. Jayden frowned. He and I have fought many times.

Andrew shook his head in disgust. Andrew then smiled as he remembered where Jimmy was and knowing that he wouldn’t be the big man in prison. Andrew glanced at Jayden who was now looking out into the canyon, which was still vibrant with color.

Aaron and Olivia tried to engage me but it just wasn’t happening. When I first got the Harley, I just rode it with no rhyme or reason. I had no real plan, and then I found this place purely by chance. I remember stopping and feeling a pull to this, he said, waving his hand to emphasize the landscape. I sat right here. Andrew looked down, indicating where he was currently sitting and then shook his head slightly. I felt so lost and confused. I didn’t know what my purpose was. I kept hearing Aaron say that this was my time to fly. That I was free like the Phoenix, but I just couldn’t see it. But as I sat there wallowing in self-pity, something... happened. It was weird, but there was this tiny spark of faith that started to build inside of me. He sighed. I sat here for hours before finally going back to the house.

This place is very... peaceful, Jayden said, glancing at him.

It is. There is a gentle calm about this place, and when I’m here, I have this sense of tranquility that overcomes me. You know what I mean? Like my heart slows down and I can breathe and, I don’t know, things feel hopeful.

He glanced at Jayden who was nodding. He hoped that he could feel that as well. Andrew turned back to the breathtaking sight before him.

When I got back to my room, all I did was draw. Everything I could remember, and what I couldn’t remember, I waited to draw until I could see it again. I ended up coming back here daily for several months until this was all in my head and I could see it clearly. He smiled and glanced at Jayden who was looking out across the canyon again. Aside from Madison, you are the only other person that knows about this place. I... He paused as Jayden turned to him. This place is very special to me and I wanted to share it with you.

Jayden closed his eyes for a second, nodding.

I thought, maybe, you know, when you have those nightmares about what happened to you and your parents, you could come here and it would make you feel better like it did for me, Andrew said with heartfelt sincerity.

Jayden’s eyes shot open, tears stung his eyes in the hot sun as his throat constricted tightly. His mouth opened, but he wasn’t able to form any coherent words. Andrew placed his hand on his shoulder and squeezed lightly before taking a deep breath and looking back out over the canyon area. Jayden inhaled deeply and turned to the scene before him as well.

Thank you, Andrew, Jayden finally said after several minutes had passed.

You’re welcome, Jay, Andrew replied.

They sat in silence as they both thought about the lives they had led up until that point, and how, in such a short time, their friendship had grown so deep. Neither was looking forward to not being able to see each other for such a long time. After much time had passed, both men looked at one another. Jayden offered him a small smile that Andrew quickly returned.

We should head back soon, Jayden said, chuckling. You don’t want to miss my parents big 'going away' production. He winked.

Andrew laughed and stood up, reaching his hand down to help Jayden up. Heaven forbid, but seriously, there is no way in hell that Madison would miss the opportunity to ogle your fathers one last time, Andrew said with an eye roll.

Jayden laughed and put his arm over Andrew’s shoulder. Welcome to my world man. I swear to god, girls don’t seem to care that they’re gay. It’s the strangest thing, he said shaking his head.

When they got back to their bikes, Andrew threw his leg over his Harley and grinned at Jayden. I’ll race you.

Jayden literally jumped on his bike, starting it with a roar and a huge grin. You are so on, he said, pulling out ahead of him.

2 Farewell Gathering

MADISON PULLED UP TO the Bennetts’ home and could already see that Aaron, Olivia, and Andrew were there. She looked out the window and saw smoke coming up from the back of the house. Madison had never actually been in their backyard so she assumed that must be the barbecue. She glanced at her grandma, who was looking at the house as well, a forlorn look on her face.

You okay, Grans? Madison asked concerned.

Her grandmother turned to her. This is really it, isn’t it?

Madison could already feel the tears forming in her eyes. It is, Grans.

Her grandmother nodded and turned back to the house, opening her car door. Madison quickly exited the vehicle, grabbing her potato salad from the backseat before making her way to her grandma. They locked arms with one another as they casually strolled to the door.

Are we supposed to walk inside? Grans asked confused.

Madison nodded. Yes, Liam told me to just come inside and put my salad in the fridge. He said they would all be out back.

Madison did as instructed, placed her salad in the huge side-by-side refrigerator, and guided her grandmother towards the patio door where they could hear laughter and music. Andrew spotted her at the sliding patio door and jumped up as if he were on a spring. He kissed her the minute he reached her and then leaned down to kiss her grandmother on the forehead. He winked at Madison as he took her grandmother’s arm and led her to a nice chair near his aunt and uncle.

Madison took a moment to eye her surroundings. The backyard was monstrously huge. She had no idea it was as big as it was. There were two sets of fruit trees that lined the walls on both sides that seemed to serve a few purposes, one, shade, two, privacy and three, well, they smelled wonderful. There was a gazebo nestled in the corner that looked like it had a sunken-in Jacuzzi and to the back of the yard was a pool. But what struck Madison the most was that on the opposite side was a huge barbecue pit, like the ones that you might see in the south. Madison smiled and shook her head at the enormity of the place.

It’s nuts, isn’t it? Andrew asked, kissing her temple.

Madison nodded and pointed at Jayden. You have been holding out, buddy!

Jayden laughed. Sorry, Madison.

Hmm, just for that, none of my famous potato salad for you, she said arching her brow.

Now, he gave her a pout. Ah, come on, Madison. Don’t be like that.

Do you want something to drink? Andrew asked with a chuckle.

When she nodded, he walked to the huge cooler and got her a soda. Madison strolled over and gave both Aaron and Olivia a hug as well as Callie before taking a seat in one of the large lounge chairs. Andrew brought her the soda and motioned for her to scoot forward. He slipped in behind her and pulled her back to him, which was exactly where Madison wanted to be. Everyone talked and visited about nothing in particular, while Liam and Elias were grilling several items.

How does everyone want their steaks? Liam asked as he approached them.

Everyone told him their preference and Madison watched as he walked back to the pit with Elias. He whispered something to him, which made Elias actually blush and nudge him away. Liam laughed and ghosted his fingers along Elias’ back before walking inside the house. After a lot of small talk, because no one wanted to talk about the inevitable, Elias brought over a plate of steaks and set them on the table that Liam had ready. Madison and Olivia had both tried to help but were promptly shooed away. Jayden had then informed them that his dad was very particular about stuff like that. The table was perfectly lined with food and freshly picked flowers in strategically placed bowls as well as tiki lanterns behind the table and at the ends. The whole scene looked as if it belonged in some home and garden magazine.

The mediums are here. Aaron, your rare is at the end and as requested, it is still mooing, Elias said chuckling. Callie, your well done is over here. Callie smiled up at him.

Everyone, please, eat, Liam said with a gallant wave to the table of food.

Damn, you guys sure know how to throw a barbecue, Madison said with a whistle.

Well, I am from Texas, Elias said, tipping his head as if he had a cowboy hat on.

Duly noted, Madison giggled as she took Andrew’s hand.

Madison had not been kidding when she said the Bennett’s knew how to do up a barbecue. There were steaks and four different kinds of salads, fresh fruit from what Madison assumed were the fruit trees in the yard, husked corn on the cob that had come off of the huge pit that Liam and Elias had been working. There were even homemade tortilla chips along with what appeared to be mango salsa. She couldn’t imagine how they expected everyone to eat all of it. 

I told you it would be a production, Jayden said, nudging Andrew.

This is a lot of food, Andrew noted, shaking his head.

Oh my GOD! Madison mumbled through a mouthful of chips and salsa. Is this homemade?

Elias laughed. Yes, it’s a family recipe. I’m glad you like it.

Everyone likes your salsa, Liam inserted with pride.

The next several hours were spent eating and eating until no one could eat anymore. The conversations were fun and exciting as people shared funny stories for entertainment. The soundtrack for the evening consisted of a mixture of what Madison deemed 'street music' along with some of the popular Tejano music currently out. It reminded her of New York and the block parties she had attended as a teenager, especially the ones in Spanish Harlem. Liam and Elias glanced at each other as one of Santana’s songs came on. Jayden grinned and then stood up, taking Callie’s hand as he led her away from the tables.