Troublemaker

By Heather Beck

All that glitters isn't gold...

Seventeen-year-old "It Girl" Ava Riley has it all – stunning good looks, her own reality show, and endorsement deals with the hottest brands. It's just too bad that she also has a stalker who's hell-bent on destroying her life.

Desperate to keep Ava safe, the Rileys move to Mar de Lágrimas, a small coastal town in the Yucatán Peninsula. Ava knows it's the perfect place to hide, to keep her true identity a secret until the police catch her stalker. What she doesn't expect is to fall in love with the vibrant culture, the breathtaking scenery, and a sexy local named Javier.

Javier is passionate, strong, and chivalrous – everything Ava wants in a guy – and even though a relationship is the last thing she needs right now, she can't stay away from him. Their chemistry is intense, the time they spend together unforgettable, but she's about to learn that he's keeping some pretty big secrets, too.

Will Ava get her happily ever after with Javier, or will their troubled pasts put them both in danger?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kiss & Tell Publishing
• Release date: Oct 16, 2022
• ISBN: 9781393656333

Heather Beck

Heather Beck is a Canadian Author and Screenwriter who began writing professionally at the age of sixteen. Since then she has written eleven well-reviewed books, including the best-selling series, The Horror Diaries, which has sold in six continents. Heather received an Honors Bachelor of Arts degree from university where she specialized in English and studied an array of disciplines. Currently, she is working on the Frostbitten series and has two anthologies slated for publication. As a screenwriter, Heather has multiple television shows and movies in development. Her short films include: Young Eyes, The Rarity, Too Sensible For Love, Circular, and the forthcoming Witch’s Brew. Besides writing, Heather’s greatest passion is the outdoors. She is an award-winning fisherwoman and a regular hiker. Her hobbies include swimming, playing badminton and volunteering with non-profit organizations.

Book preview

Chapter One

It was the opening night of Live Luxe – what was sure to be Hollywood’s hottest new lounge. The live music was loud, the signature drinks were flowing, and the place was packed with beautiful, glamorous people. Everyone was having a great time as they danced, drank, and chatted with friends – everyone except seventeen-year-old Ava Riley.

Partying at Live Luxe was just another job for Ava, hired to show her face for a few hours and to mingle with the crowd. As the daughter of Mitchell Riley, a big shot executive producer, and one of the stars of Getting Real with the Rileys, a reality show about their family, Ava was highly sought after by PR firms, especially ones with clients in the fashion and beauty industry. The fact that she was drop-dead gorgeous didn’t hurt her career, either.

Standing tall at five-foot-eight, Ava was slender but with curves in all the right places. She had an oval face with big, sparkling blue eyes that were the color of the ocean and long golden blonde hair that she wore in loose curls. Her skin was tanned from all the hours she spent in the sun, and to add to her natural good looks, she always wore the best of everything. From head to toe, she was dressed in the most expensive, flattering designer pieces, sometimes made especially for her.

Yet, for all her beauty and money, Ava still found herself unhappy.

Oh my gosh, it’s Ava Riley! a girl suddenly exclaimed as she hurried toward Ava, a big grin spreading across her face. She broke through the crowd that always seemed to surround Ava and then stopped just inches away from her. I love you so much! Can I get a picture?

Of course, Ava said with a kind – although somewhat forced – smile. This girl, who was dressed in the same outfit Ava had worn on last week’s episode of the Rileys, obviously didn’t understand the concept of personal space, but then again, Ava was used to that.

The girl wasted no time as she pressed her cheek against Ava’s and snapped a picture with her phone. She continued taking pictures, changing poses for each one. She made a kissy face, then a peace sign, and then stuck out her tongue. Ava couldn’t help but wonder how many pictures the girl actually needed.

Your show is my absolute favorite, the girl gushed, finally putting her phone down. "You and Logan made such a cute couple. I totally cried when you guys broke up. Tell me it’s not really over between you two. ’Cause I’ll be so devastated if it is."

Ava repressed the urge to cringe, trying not to be rude. From entertainment magazine writers to bloggers to fans, she’d been fielding questions about her relationship with Logan for the past three weeks – when the news of their split had made headlines. The truth was, Ava was happy with her decision to break-up with him, wishing she had done so months ago, but saying that out loud, and especially to the media, seemed cruel. Besides, it wasn’t like Logan had done anything bad to her; it wasn’t his fault that they had nothing in common.

The girl looked at her expectantly, but before Ava could answer her question, she felt someone tug on her arm. She turned around to see Tessa, her younger sister by a year and a half. Just like Ava, Tessa was a very beautiful girl. She was tall and thin, with an oval face and a cute upturned nose. She had gorgeous green eyes and long hair that she was always dying different colors. Right now, it was a deep shade of chocolate-brown.

Hey, Ava, someone wants to talk to us, Tessa said, her words coming out fast. It’s really important so, like, now.

Ava turned back to the girl and cast her a sympathetic smile. Sorry, but duty calls, she said, secretly grateful for the interruption. Thanks for being a fan. She caught a glimpse of the girl’s disappointed expression right before Tessa pulled her away, leading her across the lounge and dodging anyone who got in their way.

Whoa, where’s the fire, Tess? Ava joked. Or did you steal someone’s designer purse and now we have to make a quick getaway?

You won’t believe who I’ve just met! Tessa said, too excited to pay attention to her sister’s ribbing.

So, you weren’t trying to save me from the fangirl?

Of course not, Tessa said, turning serious. You know how important public relations are in our business. If it wasn’t for our fans, we could kiss our TV show goodbye, not to mention all those magazine spreads. You really should learn to appreciate that more.

Ava rolled her eyes, Tessa’s lecture making her feel as if she was the younger sister. While Ava always tried to be polite and would never intentionally hurt anyone’s feelings, sometimes she needed her space. Tessa didn’t understand how she felt, though. She never had. She was constantly on her A game, smiling for the crowds, never growing tired of answering the same questions over and over again. It was like she never got sick of being in the spotlight.

Okay, so who did you meet? Ava asked, trying to turn the conversation around. As the smile returned to her sister’s face, she knew it had worked.

"Lauren freaking Field. You know, of Wild Field Designs – the hot new label that’s skyrocketing to fame."

Ava nodded. I know who you’re talking about. What does she want with us?

We’re about to find out. Tessa brought Ava to a stop in front of a perfectly polished woman with black hair and striking blue eyes. Excuse me, Ms. Field, she spoke with confidence, this is my sister, Ava Riley.

Lauren turned from the man she was talking to, her full attention now on the Riley sisters. It’s a pleasure to meet you, she said with a smile, taking Ava’s hand in her own.

Likewise, Ava said.

As discreetly as possible, Lauren looked Ava and Tessa up and down as if assessing them. She then smiled widely, obviously satisfied with what she saw. You two have been on my radar ever since Wild Field Designs launched.

Really? Tessa looked over the moon. That’s great, because we’re both big fans of yours.

Thank you, Lauren said with an appreciative nod. To tell you the truth, I thought you’d both be the perfect ambassadors for my first collection, but the head of casting simply insisted on using German models. She tossed her hand in the air as if to say, that’s all in the past, before continuing. I’m branching out with a line of accessories called Glamorize. We’ll be offering jewelry, hats, scarfs, sunglasses, watches – every accessory a girl could want or need – and I’d really like to discuss having you girls as the face of this line.

Absolutely, Tessa said, trying hard to contain her excitement. It sounds like an amazing opportunity and something that would be a perfect fit for us.

That’s what I like to hear, Lauren said, then facing Ava, waiting for her response.

Ava hesitated. It did sound like a fun job, but their schedules were packed for the next eight months. She couldn’t imagine how they’d be able to squeeze in a new job. None of that seemed important, though, as she saw the desperate look on her sister’s face, silently begging her to say yes. For what seemed like the hundredth time that night, Ava plastered a fake smile on her face and said, I look forward to discussing the details further.

Excellent. I’ll have an appointment scheduled with your representatives for next week. You won’t regret this, girls. Our advertising department is putting a lot of money into Glamorize. I’m talking billboards all over the country and an international mall tour. This is going to be big – really big. Lauren cast Ava and Tessa another smile before turning back to her male companion, who’d been waiting patiently.

Tessa grabbed Ava’s arm and pulled her away, waiting until they were out of Lauren’s earshot to let out an excited squeal. "Oh my gosh! This job is so ours. Thank you so much for agreeing to do it. You actually had me scared for a minute. I thought you were going to say no."

Sounds like you owe me then, Ava teased.

Whatever you want, just name it.

Can we ditch this place? Ava asked, looking around to see that the lounge had gotten even busier. We’ve been here long enough – our job is done.

Sure thing, sis, Tessa said, waving her hand at their bodyguard, Nate Donovan, who was only a few feet away.

Nate had been working for the Riley sisters for almost three years now. Tall, strong, handsome, and buff, he was one of the best and most caring bodyguards they’d ever had. He knew how to stay close but still give them their space, always keeping an eye on them to make sure they were safe.

Hey, Nate, we’re ready to go, Tessa said once he’d reached their side. Can you tell our chauffeur to bring the limo to the front?

I recommend taking the back door. Live Luxe’s security told me there’s a large crowd at the front. Word’s out that you two are inside.

The back door’s fine with me, Ava said.

You can’t be serious! Tessa said, staring at her sister incredulously. Those people out there are waiting for us, waiting to take our picture and post it all over their social media. How can you pass up such a great photo op?

Okay, Tess, chill out. The front door is fine, too.

Are you sure? Nate asked. It will be pretty hectic out there, and you two have already had a long night.

Definitely, Tessa said enthusiastically, as Ava shrugged, agreeing.

As you ladies wish. Nate gave Ava a look before pulling out his phone. I’ll make the arrangements.

Ava watched as he called the chauffeur. She knew what he was thinking – that she gave into Tessa too easily. He was right, but she only did it because she wanted her little sister to be happy.

Thanks for doing this, Ava, Tessa said with a wide grin as she dragged her toward the front doors. "Oh, I just had an idea! We should let fans get pictures with us in front of our chauffeur’s new limo. It’s super gorgeous and expensive. They’ll love it!"

Only a couple of steps behind, Nate ended his call. The limo will be here in fifteen minutes, he told them.

Perfect. That will give us time to mingle with our fans. Tessa came to a stop to check her hair and makeup in a compact mirror. She then gave Nate a nod before sauntering through the door that he opened for her.

The crowd that had gathered outside went crazy as Ava and Tessa came out of Live Luxe. Camera phones flashed and people pushed each other as they rushed to be the first one to get an autograph. Tessa chatted and laughed with fans as she took pictures with them and signed the photos that they handed to her, obviously loving the attention. Ava, on the other hand, found the scene a little barbaric.

Sign this for me, Ava, a man said suddenly, shoving a photo in front of her face.

One second, Ava said, annoyed as she pushed the photo away without even looking at it. She was in the middle of signing an autograph for someone else, and she really didn’t like the man’s rude behavior.

Sign it to Christopher, he demanded, shoving the photo back at her.

Ava wanted Christopher to go away, so she took the photo and was about to sign it when she saw what it was – a picture of her in her family’s backyard, wearing a bikini as she stepped into the pool. The photo was blurry and off-kilter, making her realize this probably wasn’t just some sick paparazzi shot.

Where did you get this? Ava gasped, looking up at Christopher. He was a tall, sturdy man, probably in his late twenties, with chin-length dirty blond hair and a goatee. He wore a pair of red-framed glasses, and behind them, Ava could see his dark eyes focused solely on her.

I like watching you, Ava, he said, taking a step closer, causing her to move backward. Don’t be shy. I like being close to you. I know you feel the same way.

Ava’s eyes widened, realizing that not only was Christopher a stalker, but he was also downright crazy.

Seeing that something was wrong, Nate stepped in between Ava and Christopher. You’re on Live Luxe property, sir, he said, his tone firm but polite. I’m afraid I’m going to have to ask you to leave.

No! You don’t understand! Christopher’s voice rose with panic.

I asked you to leave. Don’t make me repeat myself.

As the tension between Nate and Christopher rose, the crowd fell silent, staring at the scene unfolding in front of them. A few people took pictures while others used their phones to film what was happening.

What’s going on? Tessa asked, her brow furrowed in concern as she came to Ava’s side. When her eyes fell upon Christopher and then the picture, her concern turned to anger. Oh my gosh, have you been watching my sister? She glared nastily at Christopher. You’re such a perv. Stay the hell away from her.

"I’m with Ava! Christopher insisted, trying to get around Nate, who held him back. She wants me to be here. Tell them, Ava. Tell them that we’re together."

I don’t even know you, Ava said, a shiver running up and down her spine.

You love me, Ava, Christopher said, refusing to give up. I know you do.

No, I don’t. I’m sorry, but you need help.

Enough is enough. Nate grabbed Christopher’s arms and pinned them behind his back. With a firm grip, Nate began to drag him away, but Christopher kept trying to break free, calling out desperately to Ava.

Let’s get out of here, Tess, Ava said as their limo pulled up to the curb not a moment too soon. She kept her head low to avoid the pictures and videos that were being taken, knowing this would be all over social media within minutes, but before she and her sister could escape into the safety of the limo, she heard more commotion, much louder this time.

Ava looked up to see that Christopher had gotten out of Nate’s grasp, and by the way Nate stumbled and had blood seeping from his nose, it was clear that he’d been punched by Christopher – hard. As Christopher made his way toward Ava, he reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a handgun. Everything seemed to happen in slow motion as the crowd scattered, several people screaming as they went, giving Christopher a clear shot of her.

Please, you don’t have to do this, Ava begged, tears stinging her eyes, her heart in her throat.

Christopher held the gun out in front of him, unwavering. "You’re the one who’s making me do this, Ava. We were meant to be together, but you just won’t admit it. You did this to me – to us – you little bitch."

Christopher reached for the trigger, but before he could pull it, Nate jumped him from behind, bringing them both crashing to the ground. They struggled until finally, Nate pinned him down. He reached for the gun that was still firmly in Christopher’s grasp, and just when it looked like he was about to get it, Christopher ripped his arm free and hit Nate. Nate grunted in pain but refused to give up.

Horrified, Ava watched the two men fight, wishing there was something she could do to help Nate, but right now, she knew she had to take care of her sister. She tore her eyes away from the scene and looked at Tessa, who was pale and shaky. We need to get out of here, she said, but Tessa just stood where she was, too afraid to move. Please, get in the limo, she tried again, tugging hard on her sister’s arm.

Snapping out of shock, Tessa nodded, letting Ava open the limo door for her and then getting inside. She looked at Ava, expecting her to get in, too, but instead, Ava hesitated.

The young male chauffeur, who’d clearly been too scared to get out of the limo, turned to Ava and Tessa, his brown eyes wide as he held his phone to his ear. I saw everything. Are you two okay? He didn’t wait for an answer before continuing. I’m on the phone with the police. They’ll be here any minute. Get in the car, Ava – now.

What about Nate? Ava asked, glancing back to see that Christopher was still putting up a hell of a fight.

He’s a trained professional. He can take care of...

The chauffeur’s words were cut short as a gunshot pierced through the night air, the sound echoing eerily around them.

Ava spun around, her blood turning cold as she saw Nate lying on the ground and in the distance, Christopher fleeing from the scene. Oh dear, God, she prayed as she ran to Nate, kneeling by his side. It’s going to be okay, she said in a soothing voice, even though she wasn’t convinced by her own words.

Blood saturated the left side of Nate’s shirt, making it hard to see if the bullet had grazed his side or hit him in the ribs. He was pale and sweaty, breathing heavily, and when it looked like he wanted to speak, all that came out was a deep grunt of pain.

Shhh... Ava tried to comfort him. Help is on the way, and once they get here, they’re going to take great care of you. I promise.

Nate looked up at Ava, his eyes fluttering open and closed.

Ava, is he...? Tessa asked in a shaky voice.

Ava turned around to see her sister standing behind her, looking as worried as she did. As sirens sounded in the distance, her mind flashed with images of everything that had happened tonight. She had a sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach that their lives were about to change – forever.

* * *

Chapter Two

Ava clutched her phone as she dialed a number and then listened anxiously as it rang four, five, six times. It felt like she’d been waiting forever when someone finally picked up.

Hollywood General Hospital. Intensive Care Unit, a female receptionist answered in a rushed tone.

Um, hi, Ava said. I’m calling about Nate Donovan. He was brought in three days ago with a gunshot wound. I was wondering if he’s...

Are you a family member? she interrupted.

No, but...

I’m sorry. I can’t release any information about Mr. Donovan’s condition to non-relatives. It’s against our policy.

I understand that, Ava said before she could hang up, really, I do. It’s just, I was with him the night he got shot, and it’s killing me not knowing whether he’s going to be okay or not. If there was some way I could talk to him, it would mean so much.

There was silence on the other end, making Ava wonder if the receptionist was still there, but finally she heard a sigh. You’re the same girl who’s been calling about Mr. Donovan for the last three days, aren’t you?

Yes, Ava said, hoping that she wasn’t about to have her number blocked.

The receptionist sighed again. I shouldn’t be saying this, but if you want to get an update on Mr. Donovan’s condition, you should come in person. His wife has barely left the hospital since he was admitted. Maybe she’ll give you the answers you’re looking for.

Thanks. I really appreciate it.

After ending the call, Ava let out a sigh of her own. The only reason she hadn’t visited the hospital yet was because her parents had her and her sister in lockdown. After hearing about what had happened at Live Luxe, they’d freaked out, her dad immediately changing their home security system, furious that Christopher had been able to get that close to Ava, and her mom barely letting either of her daughters out of her sight. Her parents’ paranoia was running so high that they’d even made Ava and Tessa cancel their autograph signing at the local mall – not that Ava really cared, although her sister definitely felt differently about it.

Hey, Ava, Tessa said, making Ava jump a little at the intrusion. She was always doing that – coming into Ava’s room without knocking first. Who were you talking to? Her eyes lingered on the phone that was still in Ava’s hand.

Hollywood General. Ava placed the phone on top of her white dresser. Not that it did much good.

Are they still not telling you anything?

Ava shook her head. "Only that he’s in the ICU and not allowed visitors – definitely not good signs."

Don’t think like that, sis. Tessa wrapped her in a warm hug. Nate will be fine – he has to be. Besides, worrying won’t help anyone. We need to stay positive for his sake, okay?

Okay, Ava said, feeling a little bit better. That was one of the things she loved most about her sister – she always knew the right thing to say.

Good, Tessa said with a smile, breaking from their embrace. Now, come on. Mom sent me up here to get you. She says dinner’s almost ready and that she’s cooked. I think we’re all eating together, too.

Seriously? Ava asked as she followed her sister downstairs. She couldn’t remember the last time they’d had a home-cooked meal together as a family, especially when the cameras weren’t rolling. Between all their different jobs and passion projects, they never seemed to get a chance to spend much quality time together.

Yeah, Tessa said, nodding. I guess their maternal instincts have kicked into high gear. Annoying, isn’t it?

Ava shrugged. She didn’t mind that their parents were being overprotective. In a way, she even liked it, because it showed how much they really cared about her and her sister.

As Ava and Tessa walked into the open-concept dining room and kitchen, a sweet and savory aroma filled the air. Their mom, Isabelle, was hard at work, putting the finishing touches on dinner, but when she saw her daughters, she cast them a beautiful smile. Like her smile, Isabelle was beautiful inside and out. She was of Swedish descent and had light blonde hair, blue eyes, and a heart-shaped face. Anyone who knew her said she had a heart of gold because of her kind demeanor and the fact that she’d dedicated most of her life to charitable works.

We’re having lasagna tonight, Isabelle said, taking dishes from the cabinet and placing them on the table that was already set with glasses, placemats, and cutlery. I used Grandma Riley’s special recipe. I remember how much you two used to like it.

Sounds perfect, Ava said, a little curious why their mom was putting so much effort into tonight’s dinner. Can I help you with anything?

No, I’m almost done.

You sure? Ava pried, knowing how much her mom hated to ask for help, even when she needed it.

Of course, sweetie. Go ahead and sit down. Dinner will be served in a few minutes. She went back into the kitchen to carefully take the dish of piping hot lasagna out of the oven.

Suck up, Tessa teased Ava under her breath as they sat down next to each other.

Lazy, Ava teased right back.

Pretending to be offended, Tessa punched Ava lightly on the arm, but all it did was make the two of them laugh.

Now that’s a sound I could listen to all day, their dad, Mitchell, said as he walked into the dining room. He was a tall, handsome man with blue-green eyes and brown hair that was only starting to turn gray. Even though he was almost ten years older than his wife, he looked young for his age – something that he credited to his daily workout routine and deep passion for his work.

Hi, Dad, Ava said as he kissed her forehead and then Tessa’s.

How was work, Dad? Tessa asked.

It was busy, but good. Mitchell slipped his work phone, which he still had in his hand, into his pocket and then sat down. Even though he was smiling, Ava had a feeling that it was somewhat forced. How was your day? he asked, looking at both of his daughters.

Oh, fine, Tessa said, a hint of sarcasm in her voice, considering we’re practically prisoners in our own home.

You have to trust that we know what’s best for you, Mitchell said.

Your father’s right, Isabelle agreed, bringing the lasagna into the dining room and placing it on the table. She served them each a generous slice as she continued. We’re only doing this to keep you safe. It won’t be for much longer, anyway.

Mitchell cast Isabelle a look that Ava couldn’t read, but whatever it was supposed to mean, it made her mom turn away.

What do you mean, it won’t be for much longer? Tessa asked, her eyes growing wide and her voice rising with excitement. Are you trying to tell us that the police caught that psycho, Christopher? That we can go back to our regular lives?

Ava bit her lower lip nervously at the mention of Christopher’s name. The police hadn’t caught him on the night he’d shot Nate, and the last she’d heard, they were still looking for him; that he could be anywhere. She feared that he was close by, maybe even watching her, and planning his next crazy move. She could only pray that she was wrong and that her mom knew something she didn’t.

I’m afraid not, honey, Isabelle said, causing Tessa’s face to fall and Ava’s heart to sink. Christopher’s still out there.

The police should’ve had him in custody by now, Mitchell scoffed. They’re useless. That’s the reason why we have to take extra steps to make sure you’re both protected.

Extra steps? Ava questioned, her eyebrows raised. Tess is right – we’re already prisoners in our own home. What extra steps can we really take?

There was an awkward silence between Isabelle and Mitchell until finally, Isabelle spoke. We could leave, she said.

Leave? Tessa repeated, as if she hadn’t heard her mom right.

And go where? Ava asked, just as surprised. They’d lived in their white eight thousand square foot Hollywood home for as long as she could remember. It was where she and her sister had taken their first steps, where many childhood memories had been made. It was hard to imagine them living anywhere else.

We’re going to Mexico. Isabelle’s voice was gentle, as if to soften the blow of what she was saying.

Ava and Tessa looked at their mom and then at each other, an expression of shock on both their faces.

Are...are you serious? Ava choked out. "We’re actually going to Mexico?"

Isabelle nodded.

But how? Ava asked. How can we just pack up and move there?

Yeah, Tessa said, finding her voice. What the hell is going on?

I know this comes as a shock and must seem very sudden, but the truth is, I’ve been thinking about going to Mexico for a while now, Isabelle began to explain. Five months, to be exact. That’s when I applied for a visa to volunteer at Corazón de Artista, a non-profit organization that gives Mexican artists the tools and workspace they need to create beautiful works of art. Many of the clients are youths and people who have experienced hardships in their lives.

Corazón de Artista sounds amazing, Mom, Ava said, really, it does, but why all the secrecy? Did you think we wouldn’t support you? That we would refuse to come with you?

Of course not. Isabelle reached across the table to give Ava’s hand a loving squeeze. It was nothing like that. I didn’t want to tell you and Tessa until I knew for sure that my visa application had been approved. And honestly, the initial plan was for me to go by myself for a few months. Your father and I didn’t want to interrupt your studies with your tutors or take you away from your work commitments, but after what happened at Live Luxe, we had a change of heart.

We didn’t come to this decision lightly, Mitchell said. "Your mother and I have