Riddle Me This, Love or Bliss?

By Arline Miller

Riddle Me This, Love or Bliss? This suspenseful romance is the destination for a combination of familiar characters blended in a web of danger and mystery. What seems to be the truth is hidden in a melody of love. Does the ugly truth surface unexpectedly?

Rachelle’s heart made a choice. It might be the hardest one she had made in her life. She could have remained Dave’s love prisoner or would it be possible free and love again? It seemed easier to live with her memories of a love made for the romance novel, than to risk loving again. Could her heart survive a loss if something happened to the man standing in front of her with love written on his face. As the waves broke, so did the wall of resistance and she fell into Al’s arms. Could they stay on the island forever? Would the world beckon them back to a harsh reality?

On the other side of the world, Destaina and Andrew were reeling from the discovery of their true heritage. Where do they go from here? Is it Love or Bliss? What if life wants to throw another curve? When they think the lies are behind them, has a trap been set to destroy them and their love?

Life is the phenomenal trickster and Riddle Me This, Love or Bliss? doesn’t hold back on tumbling lives to and fro. It is a book worth reading if you like puzzles that encompass love and suspense. Riddles abound; love is challenged; and lives are endangered.

Will love conquer in the end or will bliss fizzle out? You must see for yourself.

Arline Miller, the author, invites you the reader to climb aboard to a gripping romance adventure with Rachelle, Al, Destaina, and Andrew with some unlikely heroes along the way.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Arline Miller
• Release date: Oct 21, 2019
• ISBN: 9780463132296

Arline Miller

Being from the small town of Douglas, Georgia and living in many locations both big and small, I found out how to learn flexibility and adaptability in all states of living and working. My writing has been my escape from everyday stress. Since 2012, I found solace in writing my inspirational blog. This adventure has taught me the power of words as a single word can encourage the weakest and destroy the strongest. We, who write, must know the difference. I am proud to have my first novel published so you can share my love.

Book preview

As the breeze intertwined Al and Rachelle’s kiss, Freckles barked as if he consented to the embrace. The kiss was long and tender, years of longing and hesitations disappearing into the ocean to be engulfed by the waves. They held each other as if scared to let go. Freckles frolicked with a small crab to distract himself from the romantic interlude. In this moment, the new couple were oblivious their past was hunting them down. How could they know what they thought was the truth would be the exact opposite, and could destroy their new love?

They meandered their way to the bungalow where Rachelle was a guest, choosing to sit on the sun-bleached porch. Both of them seemed hesitant about the temptation to go inside and consummate their passion. A breeze flowed through the distance between them and both felt a slight chill. How could this love be wrong after all the sacrifices both of them had made for their former loves?

Al was the first to speak after a slightly awkward silence. Upon hearing his voice, Rachelle gazed at his eyes. Al had a way of putting her at ease and feeling secure. It was a different emotion than she had with Dave, but in some sense, he encompassed a gentler security and safety.

She listened intently as he spoke. Rachelle, my heart has so many words to say to you, but my mind tells my heart to be quiet and let love speak for itself. I am treading where I fear to go. I have never been frightened and would welcome any risk in any other situation, but you are my biggest fear. I dare not tell you the magnitude of my love. I don’t want to lose you if you don’t feel the same.

Al could feel his hands shake. This was not familiar to him. He was a tough guy with all the courage and strength to face any challenge. His days in law enforcement had dissipated any hesitancy, and he charged into dire straits fully aware of the danger. It had become second nature to him. Why do I feel weak and vulnerable with this beautiful lady? He acknowledged Rachelle had the power to crush his heart into tiny segments if she resisted and left him. Al remembered how Dave had been captivated by her beauty and innocent face, and he felt the same compelling attraction. His heart raced, but he was prepared to accept the risk as he couldn’t fathom not having Rachelle in his life.

Rachelle touched Al’s cheek with her fingers, as if to hug his face yet remain minutely distant. He could sense how overwhelmed she felt and could see apprehension begin to cloud her lovely face. He knew the fragmented little girl was surfacing and she was distancing herself from him. Her face paled and she began to slide of the settee but Al caught her and held her steady. Rachelle sat still for a few seconds before excusing herself for a bathroom break. Remembering how Rachelle had black out moments relating to her horrific past, Al thought it might be wise to give her some space and to settle in at the hotel. He found a piece of paper and wrote a note.

The note read, We have a lifetime to begin, but we can start tomorrow. Whenever you find the path we can follow I will be close, and I will hold our feelings closer. Call me at the hotel when you are ready to see me. I have made no plans for a return flight, so take the time you need. Waiting for you my love, Al.

When he laid the note on the table, Freckles looked at him inquisitively as if to say, Stay, you belong with us. Al had second thoughts about leaving but brushed them aside. If they were to have a life together, Rachelle had to release all the ghosts haunting her. He shut the door after patting Freckles.

***

Rachelle came out of the bathroom and looked for Al, feeling slight relief when she didn’t find him. Freckles pointed with his nose to the note on the table. She picked it up and read his loving words, the message an echo of his heart. Rachelle felt a sigh coming out of her. Al loved her and she felt she loved him, but a part of her heart was held captive. Rachelle wanted to be free to love. She felt Dave would approve if she and Al were in love. Freckles cupped his head into her hand, and she felt the sweet love coming from his eyes. She knew that was the last sign she needed to give her heart to Al. She picked up the phone.

***

Al reached the hotel and checked into his room. This situation was not what he wished it would be. He wanted to hold Rachelle in his arms forever but had an innate sense he should give her space. Al was different from Dave. He chose to give freedom in a relationship. Rachelle would know he was her love by choice. She could be his love by allowing him to touch her heart with eternal love and devotion. He would give her all the time she needed to choose her path. He jumped in the shower and didn’t hear the phone ring.

***

Hanging up the phone, Rachelle felt a pang of hurt. Did she cause Al to run from her? She wasn’t sure if he wanted the emotional roller coaster ride. Dave had pounded on her sensitivity with an unmatched strength, which allowed her to face her demons. She was stronger and more assertive in all matters but the heart and wondered if she was too needy for any other man to be responsive. She proceeded to the bathroom and decided to shower the sand off her body. A warm bath would enable her to ground her feelings.

***

Rachelle and Al, while showering the sand off their bodies, had no clue they would never wash away the misfortune they would experience shortly. As water drizzled their faces, the past was catching up with them thousands of miles away.

CHAPTER 2

Sitting behind his desk, TJ Thornburg rubbed his forehead, as he did when he was deep in thought. He’d had a disturbing call from his daughter, Vivian, who had left a message to call her as soon as possible. She mentioned it was concerning some caller named Destaina asking personal questions about Dave. The young caller had left a phone number in case something was discovered about her existence. Viv’s voice was inquisitive, more shaken than curious.

TJ listened and felt an incredible urge to curse Dave. Would he ever go away and take the ghosts of the past with him? He died and left a trail of tears for his daughter, grandsons, and even Dave’s mistress, Rachelle. The grief was enough punishment for his family but apparently, more heartache was on its way.

He looked in his desk drawer and pulled out a worn card with a number and the initials KM on it. TJ hadn’t spoken to him in years, not since the episode of the faked death of Rachelle. KM might not be available. He had to be getting older and presumably out of his cutthroat business. As he pressed the numbers, he wanted to hang up and scratched his head, wondering if the dead could stay dead and allow the living to live. There was no answer, and he sighed a little. Maybe it would go away, and he wouldn’t have to deal with any more drama in his life. A pain in the pit of his stomach reminded him nothing disappears. It has to be managed or removed. He would leave a message for KM to call him immediately as there could be a job for him. A cringe passed over his entire body, and for a second he wished he could go back in time and do things differently. Feeling the need to distract himself with the usual form of business he reviewed reports on real estate properties until the phone call came in.

Maggie came in unexpectedly during one of the phone calls, which was against her normal personal assistant persona. TJ looked at her, but he continued his conversation without pause and motioned her to sit down. He finished his call and when he hung up, he asked her what was going on.

Mr. Thornburg, there is a strange man in my office demanding to see you. He doesn’t have an appointment, or I guess he doesn’t since he will not give me his name. KM is all he said to me and told me to tell you he is waiting. What should I tell him? I hate to say this, but he looks strange and makes me flinch. Should I tell him to go away or call security?

TJ, his face impassive, replied, No, I will see him and please show him in. He might want some coffee, so ask him. Once he is in with me, hold all my calls until he leaves.

Maggie stood up and struggled to not ask any questions. She left TJ’s office, asked the complimentary question, and led KM into the big office before leaving to get KM the black coffee he requested. She could feel the icy stare and her hair stood up on the back of her neck. It was not the normal everyday visitor she was accustomed to greeting. She wondered what business he had with TJ.

KM sat down in the chair across from TJ and the two men stared. It was unsettling to realize how many deals they had made, yet had never sat facing each other. KM was wearing his usual disguise of dark glasses and a fake beard. His chiseled cheeks had a firm set to them as if he clenched his teeth constantly. His mouth was tightly closed unless he spoke. TJ must have looked vulnerable in contrast. Years had added weight to his former firm body, and he looked a little plump in comparison to the tall, lanky man facing him.

I would have preferred if we never met face to face, but we apparently have some unfinished business or you would not have called me. I felt this meeting necessary to finalize some cleanup. If this is the reason for your call, once the final sweep is completed I am retiring from any future dealings. After we complete this phase, I am done. Do you understand, no calls, no jobs, nothing?

TJ sat up straight in his chair, looked KM directly in his eyes and said in a firm, cold voice, I didn’t want to call you in the first place. If you had taken care of the first job completely, we would not be meeting now. Don’t give me any demands, as you were the one who failed in doing what you had been told. I was left to monitor a bad situation. I hoped this ordeal wouldn’t come back to haunt either of us, but here we are, so shut up and listen.

KM stood up and turned away as if he was leaving. He despised anyone inferring he didn’t do a job exactly the way he was hired to do, but this time the customer was right. He clenched his teeth, sat down again and answered, All of my career I have delivered the results that were expected. Only one time did it go south. I am willing to correct my mistake from all those years ago. Tell me what you want me to do to complete the job. I give you my word, I will take care of it and you will not have to see my face again.

Let’s get it finished and seal the deal. Do it fast, as trouble has knocked on my daughter’s door and we can’t let the truth come out. I want the dead to stay dead, and have some company. You understand what I need done, right? With this question, TJ reached and shook KM’s hand.

Consider it done, said KM as he stood up. The hit man looked back at the man he had killed for and scared others into doing deeds they wouldn’t have previously considered. He tried to see any weakness in TJ’s face, but all he saw was a tired old man refusing to feel any human compassion. TJ exuded coldness, far more than anyone else KM had dealt with, or crossed paths with, in his entire life. He was not someone you disappointed, and KM knew he could not afford to fail this time. He walked out of the door determined to satisfy his customer. He would disappear afterward.

CHAPTER 3

In New York, a young couple woke to brilliant sunlight through Destaina’s window, beckoning them to discover a new day after a blissful night. Andrew touched Destaina’s face with a soft kiss and her eyes opened to see him smiling at her. Destaina looked disheveled but beautiful, with strands of her blonde hair falling over her face, making her blue eyes even more mesmerizing. Andrew had a wild look, with his hair doing its own uncontrolled style. It gave him the appearance of a man boy, but the stubble on his face contradicted the boyish appearance. His olive skin glistened against the sheets, the opposite of her blonde hair. She gazed into his eyes, which reflected the deep soul beneath the surface. Andrew pulled her to his body and held her tightly. Deep passion took over and they were thrown into a world of lovemaking until they fell back, spent, and slept again in each other’s arms.

Time seemed to stand still for the lovers and when they awoke, it was afternoon. Destaina and Andrew decided to shower together, which ended up with more love being shared before they finished the warm shower. Andrew stared with enduring love at the dripping, shimmering, natural glow from Destaina. He felt he would like to keep the world shut out to have more time with her. She responded with a sheepish smile, since she was slightly uncomfortable with the exposure of her body. It wasn’t due to any insecurity, but she felt she paled in comparison to Andrew’s physique. It was almost childlike play while drying each other off before dressing. They both hesitated and contemplated returning to the bed, but they felt another hunger which was begging for food.

They walked hand in hand to the diner down the street. Destaina loved the name Spoon Spinners and smiled at the old sign that had to have hung over the door longer than she had been alive. It was originally a greasy spoon diner, but in the last years the menu had progressively changed to a healthier choice. The burgers were still on the menu though, and no one expected them to ever stop serving burgers that had drawn customers for decades. Andrew pointed to a table in the corner and she followed him with the menus the hostess had given each of them. The diner had never been remodeled. The vivid green walls and yellow seats in the booths were faded and worn, but it held a welcoming ambiance that would rival any five-star restaurant.

Andrew touched her back as he sat down next to his beautiful lover. The universe had taken them for a wild ride of deceit and lies as mutual hidden pasts were uncovered. When it seemed improbable either would have a life of honesty and true desire, they had found blissful love. Andrew had experienced many casual, lust filled relationships, but this was the essence of a forever love. There was plenty of lust in this one, but he could not bear the thought of another man having a second of pleasure with Destaina. He had never felt possessive with anyone before but now he wanted to keep her all to himself. At the same time he wanted to show her off to the world. Andrew looked at Destaina, who excited him without trying. She had the appearance of woman/child and the combo was enticing while innocent. He wondered if her mom had possessed that same look. He had noticed Rachelle held the same quality. Destaina’s blonde hair was pulled back in a loose ponytail and it swung as she walked, casually finding a landing on her shoulder when she sat down. Andrew was as hungry for her as he was for some good food. Taking his eyes off her he decided to look at the menu, but his mind was returning to the night’s passion and this morning’s replay. Food was a necessity; so was their love.

***

As Destaina gazed at the menu her thoughts were a mixture of pleasure from a night of passion and concern about the strange call to Dave’s wife. Vivian was aloof and very suspicious of a young lady who asked her some uncomfortable questions about her deceased husband. She was not at all forthcoming with any helpful information and seemed apprehensive about meeting her. It was apparent she had never heard of Destaina, or her existence as Dave’s daughter. Destaina tried to convince her that the intention was not to be part of their family picture, but to know about Dave’s other children. Destaina had a curiosity to see if any of them knew about her existence. Rachelle had warned her that Vivian never mentioned Dave having a child outside of their marriage, and in the final documents she was not mentioned as an heir. She had been remembered in the letter and trust fund in Rachelle’s name to be distributed to Destaina in the event of his death. Destaina felt disowned during her lifetime and now it seemed she would remain the dirty secret child. She shuddered and shook the fear and shame off, focusing instead on Andrew. If he could survive his past, she could accept the reality of not visiting her father’s past. It was more compulsion than need. She would love to see if her dad’s sons looked like him and if they had his eyes, as she did.

Deciding her father’s past was for another day, she asked Andrew what he was ordering. He smiled and said, Can I order you to go, beautiful lady?

CHAPTER 4

Freckles looked at Rachelle after she hung up the unanswered call. He sensed his life as he had known it was about to change. The promise of trips around the world seemed to fade in the background. Freckles sensed he would have a master in addition to his Mommy Rachelle. He felt comfortable around Al who was a strong but loving person, the components of a perfect master. Rachelle had the look of a happy woman in love, but slightly confused. She had a light step when she walked and gave good pats when he obeyed her. She was the best mommy he could have imagined, and he would protect her with his life if anyone tried to hurt her. Al didn’t present any threat to either of them. That meant Freckles had another person to protect and to help them make the decision to be together. Freckles would soon have a family, complete with Mommy and Daddy. He wagged his tail at the thought.

Rachelle passed the mirror above the dresser in the bungalow and smiled. She resolved on no more waiting and deciding whether to pursue this love or not. She knew in her heart she was free to love again so dressed hurriedly and put Freckles on his leash. She had to get to the hotel before she gave Al any reason to doubt her love, so walked briskly, Freckles excited at her pace. Things were going his way. Soon they would claim her lover and his new master. Freckles kept up the pace and they were soon at the hotel and at Al’s door. Almost instantly, the door opened and Al bolted through. To Freckles, it was obvious Al was already on his way to them. They almost collided in the doorway and spontaneously laughed while mutually hugging each other. Freckles knew he could lie down shortly and get a nap while they planned their future.

Al and Rachelle walked hand in hand to the veranda of the hotel. Both were trying to spill out their love, talking at once and over each other. In the midst of the love sputtering, they grabbed each other and kissed. Struggles to release the past had stopped. The couple welcomed the passion without hesitation. Rachelle sighed and clung to Al. He wrapped her in his strong arms and held her, as if he feared losing her. They felt a need to relax in each other’s arms and sit quietly, allowing the love to soak into their bodies. They could hear the waves beating against the shore, murmured conversations between other guests, doors shutting, and seagulls squawking in the sky. It merged together as a romantic music backdrop. Time did not seem relevant and almost stood still in the calmness of their affectionate hug.

Al did not want to seem impatient to consummate their love and instead offered to go for an early dinner at the hotel restaurant. Rachelle responded with a suggestion of room service instead of spending time in the dining room. Al looked at her smile and knew she wanted him. A cozy dinner on the balcony could precede what he had anticipated for a long time. It would be a perfect setting. Hand in hand, they walked back to her bungalow. Rachelle packed a bag and grabbed Freckles’ food and dish. Al smiled and understood he wouldn’t be walking them back tonight. Freckles liked this trek back to the hotel and seemed to skip instead of walk.

The sun was setting, dancing rays shooting into the sky in a melody that blended with the sounds of the ocean. All the group anticipated a magical night, except Freckles. He planned a long nap, since he had accomplished his mission by acquiring his own daddy. He would leave the consummating to the humans.

Rachelle had allowed the walls of the imprisonment of love to fall. She saw a still, quiet horizon that had been hidden and she felt the freedom to love Al