Never-Ending

By Janelle Riley

Steve and Valerie Vogel are finally getting the family they’ve been hoping for. By luck, they find a surrogate in the mysterious town of Aurora Hills. However, Steve can’t help but wonder if this adoption will be a shattering disappointment like what he and Valerie have been faced with in the past.

Tiffani was wrong about her lover and heartthrob, Laz Ramos; he wasn’t the philandering man she had feared and she couldn’t be happier. Exhilaration soon follows when her dream guy asks for her hand in marriage. Sadly, her happiness will soon come to a halt with the news of a horrific accident on a road between Willow’s End to Aurora Hills. Will Tiffani lose the greatest thing that has ever happened in her?
Things are still looking bleak for the Patel’s; with the town’s bully wreaking havoc searching for Bob for a leaked video, Eliza is unable to shake the presence of her ex-husband out of her life so she can move on to pursue, Marcus—Laz’s handsome and younger brother.
With Luisa out of their family home and living in Miami, Katrina has accepted the fact her sister’s desire to be off on her own. But to her dismay, she’s faced with a horrible secret that another sister has been keeping for two years. She thought coming out to her family she was a lesbian was going to be hard, but dealing with a much more travesty not to mention juggling a relationship with Sandy is going to be tougher than she thought.
Nina’s life was already out of control after the death of her parents, a broken relationship, and an assault that has scarred her for life. Now that her terrifying secret has surfaced, Nina has lost all sense of reality leading her down a road she may never come back from.
Nancy Landers has done all she can to take over the Landers’ fortune, only to fail at every attempt. She and her accomplice, gorgeous hot-head, Raif will stop at nothing to get what they set out to do. Even if it means destroying anyone and thing along the way.
The threat of the community, Kyle Mills is out for blood when a particular video with an assault has landed in the hands of the Oasis Strait police department. He’s also been named suspect number one for the deadly accident involving some of the residents. He will stop at nothing to make sure he clears his name and somehow silence the one individual who had knowledge of the tape.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Janelle Riley
• Release date: Mar 9, 2021
• ISBN: 9781005903725

Janelle Riley

Janelle lives in Louisiana with her husband, their three children, and Hamilton their half lab half rottweiler canine. Along with writing, she’s a professional photographer and enjoys being outdoors photographing people and nature. Her writing passion came from when she wrote her first sci-fi short story in the seventh grade; from there she’s been writing solely a way to pass the time when she wasn’t taking care of the kids or photographing—that is until now. Reading books from other authors and knowing their journeys, inspired Janelle to write her own collection of work for a broad audience. “Writing has been something I’ve always wanted to do, but life and all the circumstances that came with it made it hard for me to pursue my first true love.” Some of her writing is based on life experiences from her own and those with whom she is acquainted.When not writing or photographing, she enjoys traveling with her family, playing video games with her kids, drawing, listening to music, and cooking; the latter being her all-time favorite. “To me, cooking is a form of art; you’re able to create something tasty for yourself and the whole family.” When it comes to movies, she prefers to watch action/adventure, horror, sci-fi, animated, comedy, and maybe when the mood is right a good old fashion love story.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

TIFFANI

My heart was racing and my mind rushed as I was hurried on a gurney through a long corridor. The fluorescent lights above followed along as I tried desperately to reminisce about how I ended up here. Glancing to my right Eliza was running along beside me. Her mouth was moving but I was unable to make out what was being said. I glanced over to my left to where my father was; his handsome face held a worried gaze as his eyes took a minute from what was in front of him to glance at me. There was another I was searching for—the one who meant the world to me. Where was Laz?

I lifted my head from off the gurney but then a strong hand guided me back. Ma’am, I need you to lay back.

Glancing over, I noticed a pale red-headed paramedic, his gloved hand was holding me back on the gurney as I tried to force myself up.

What’s going on? I asked. My eyes were coming into focus, searching around the area. Where’s Laz?

A soft hand laid upon my shoulder, I turned to see it was Eliza. Tiffani be calm. You hit your head pretty hard at the house.

I found the strength to bring my body up on the gurney again, pushing the random hands away from me. The room began to spin again, I placed my hand on my head to keep everything around me still. Is he here?

Baby, my father said, please, honey. You may have a concussion.

I grabbed a hold of his arm. Daddy, where’s Laz, where’s my husband? You have to find him.

My head spun more as I gathered my thoughts; recalling the last thing which brought me here. Eliza came by searching for Marcus, being ridiculous as usual. Then two uniformed cops came to my door—Laz. Oh, god. It was all coming back to me, there was an accident on the interstate and Laz was there.

Laz! My arms flailed about, trying hard to come off the gurney. I pushed all who were near away, the more I struggled, the more the hands increased their strength to keep me down. I needed to go to Laz—he was somewhere alone and hurt—he needed me.

Then, all at once, everything came to a halt. The same paramedic from earlier grabbed me by my shoulders; his name tag read Byers.

Tiffani, I need you to calm down. His hazel eyes met mine; they were kind and reassuring. You hit your head hard after blacking out. Blacking out? I can’t have you excited like this. Please lay back. You’ll be seeing a doctor soon.

I wanted to scream and cry, I was helpless and useless; Laz was somewhere alone when he needed me the most. Why wasn’t anyone listening? I was fine, there was no reason for everyone to be under me. While I lay here in this hospital, my husband was on the Interstate—lying in a ditch hurt or probably dead.

Don’t do this, Tiffani. Keep your head on, girl.

Byers strolled over to the nurse’s station, giving me the opportunity to speak to Eliza or my dad for help with finding Laz. I stared over at Eliza who had her eyes glued on her phone, no doubt she was searching media sites for Marcus and his status, she wasn’t going to be much help. Dad took hold of my hand and squeezed, I pulled him near for him to hear me.

Please. I peered left to right to see if anyone was drawing in around us. I need to know if Laz is okay. Can you find out for me?

Of course, baby, he said, stroking my arm. As soon as the doctor is done with you.

No, now. Please find him. I’d hoped my pleads set a fire under him. Call Steve…Valerie…anyone.

Okay, sweetheart. It’s going to be fine. He gave me a peck on the forehead. I’m heading out right now. He then glanced over at Eliza. Please look after my daughter. I’m going to find out what I can about Laz.

Of course, Eliza said. Go. I’m not going anywhere.

Thank you, Dad said.

He turned back to glance at me, shooting me a smile. The smile which said all was going to be all right. He took off through the hospital and disappeared among the patients, nurses, and doctors. I prayed it would be good news and nothing serious.

Please let Laz be okay. Bring my man back home to me.

CHAPTER 2

ELIZA

A tall woman with a beak of a nose and fucked-up attitude was giving me a hell of a time since she walked into Tiffani’s room.

Are you family? she asked while checking Tiffani’s blood pressure.

Tiffani happens to be my best friend. For the moment, I’m all she has.

She cut her eyes in my direction. I’m sorry, but family are the only persons allowed in here with her.

Look, her father went out to locate her husband.

When the father and husband returns—

You don’t understand, Tiffani intervened. My husband was in an accident and my father went to find out his status.

The nurse turned to face Tiffani with a look of concern etched on her face. Are you talking about the accident off of Interstate 515?

I rolled my eyes and huffed. Yeah, so you see why I need to be here with her until her dad returns with some news.

Her long fingers rested on the tip of Tiffani’s shoulder. Oh, sweetheart. I’m so sorry. From what I heard there was so much carnage on the road.

Tiffani covered her hand over her mouth and gasped.

The frightened look on my friend’s face was causing me much disheartenment.

The nurse continued, Twenty car pile-up I do believe they said. An 18-wheeler was involved.

Tiffani’s brown eyes were wide with fear and filling with tears.

I stepped to the nurse and took note of her nametag. Listen here, Carlotta. Tiffani doesn’t need you to upset her even more than what she’s going through now. Just stop talking and get the goddamn doctor in here.

Carlotta narrowed her eyes at me, then shifted her gaze over to Tiffani. The doctor will be here in a few.

She gave me an ugly glare before pulling the curtains shut and exiting the room.

Tiffani began to sob. Oh, my god…Laz…no. He was on that 18-wheeler.

I sat next to her on the bed. Don’t do that. It could’ve been another vehicle. We need to wait and see what your father says.

I handed her a tissue from off the table that was next to the bed.

She wiped her watery eyes, then her lips quivered. You’re probably right. I’m being ridiculous. I…I don’t know what I’d do if I lose—

You’re not going to lose him. You’ll see. Laz will stroll in here along with your dad and his amazing smile. Just wait and see.

She leaned her head back and turned to face the wall, sobbing as she was glancing out the window. Then in a matter of minutes, the curtains were pulled back to expose a tall man with olive skin in a white physician’s coat. His almond-shaped dark eyes glanced from the chart he was holding and placed on to Tiffani. I examined his fingers in search of a wedding ring. Nope, not married. A short nurse carrying a tray emerged along with the bitch, Carlotta who was here earlier.

Hello, Mrs. Ramos. He had a mild, interesting voice. I’m Dr. Chandra. We’re going to run tests on you today.

Tiffani shook her head and gave the doctor a smile I recognized as fake. You know what? I’m fine. I received some bad news and just fainted. Right now, I need to be with my husband.

I understand your situation, he said. I’m not at all unsympathetic to you in your time of need. But I see in your chart you had blacked out and hit your head. We need to make sure there is no swelling or any damage that may have been caused during the fall.

Tiffani’s bottom lip quivered more. Okay. Do what you have to do. Please make it quick, I really need to be with my husband.

The nurses here will draw blood and monitor your blood pressure. I’ll order a cat scan for your head to make sure you’re not showing any signs of a concussion.

Tiffani nodded and sniffled.

The smaller nurse placed a tray filled with tubes and needles on the table next to Tiffani. I didn’t do well with blood, so I scooted toward the door.

I’m…um…going to step outside and make some calls, I said.

That’ll be best, Carlotta said, rolling her eyes at me.

I flipped her the bird as I exited out of the room. Dialing the first number that came to mind, I sat on a lone chair outside of Tiffani’s room.

Valerie, thank God, I said. Where are you and Steve?

We’re at the hospital in Aurora Hills, she said.

I closed my eyes, behind them were images of Steve bloodied and bruised along with Laz. Was Steve in that accident? We don’t need too many people in the damn hospital.

Valerie’s voice was fragile and shaking. No, but he was supposed to be. Poor Jake…he didn’t make it.

Laz was on that truck, wasn’t he? There was an eerie pause on Valerie’s end and my heart soared in my chest. Valerie, are you there?

We don’t know much; Laz is in pretty bad shape. They had to airlift him here and they’re not telling us a thing because we’re not family. All we know is he’s in surgery and it doesn’t look good. Gloria is on her way.

How was I going to tell Tiffani this shit?

I placed a hand on my head. Tiffani is in the hospital here.

Oh no! What happened? Is she okay?

They’re drawing blood and running tests, right now. The police came by to inform her of the accident, that’s when she fainted.

Why is this happening? Geoffrey Landers is here too. His car caused the accident and his driver Jesse died on arrival.

I sat rubbing my temples. And Geoffrey? How is he?

No word on him either, I haven’t seen his wife, Nancy anywhere.

Jesus Christ! My eyes fell to one of the nurses at the nurse’s station who was giving me a hard glare. I turned to the side and whispered in the phone, Mr. Sparrows is on his way out there.

I hope he’s able to come through. Interstate 515 to Aurora Hills is closed. They’re detouring traffic and it could be hours before anyone can come through.

Dammit, I said, slapping my hand on my thigh.

Hey sweetie, Valerie said. I have to go, Gloria just arrived. Keep me posted about Tiffani and I’ll call if I hear anything else.

Okay, I said. Before ending the call, I called out to Valerie. Oh hey, Val? Is Marcus with Gloria by chance?

Not now Eliza, she said and ended the call.

I bit my lower lip and realized what I’d said was insensitive, but you couldn’t blame a girl for trying.

CHAPTER 3

GLORIA

Marcus and I were on our way to the airport for Miami when we received the call about Laz and the accident. Why was this happening when his life was starting with his beautiful wife? Oh god, poor Tiffani. I tried calling since I heard about the accident, but there was no answer on her end. I’d hoped she was on the way.

I leaned my head back in the chair and let out a harsh sigh. Marcus, you don’t need to be here with me. I’ll be fine. You have your work to do back in Miami.

Family is more important, Mama, he said, rubbing my shoulder. He’s my brother. I need to see if he’s okay. Besides, we all need to be here. Not for Laz, but for Tiffani too. She’s family now.

Yes, you’re right, son. I tried calling Tiffani again. What is going on? I’m unable to get through to her.

Marcus grabbed the phone from my hand. Put the phone down, the lines are tied up from people trying to call. For all we know, she’s probably on the way.

Did you call Tomas, Angel, and your sisters?

Yes, Vanessa is on her way along with Natalie and Angel, he said.

Valerie came over with a tray of coffee, her usual smile was replaced with pure sadness. Here you go, Mrs. Ramos. Marcus, coffee?

Thank you, Valerie, Marcus said. We appreciate all you and Steve have done.

It’s not a problem at all, she said, eyeing away with shimmering eyes. Laz is like family to me and Steve.

Valerie sat next to me and sobbed. Marcus stood behind where she was and wrapped his muscular arms around her shoulder.

The tears burned under my eyelids as I began to speak, Why was he out on a truck? Why wasn’t he with Tiffani on their honeymoon?

Steve and I were seeing an attorney for a baby.

I choked on my coffee. What? You put my son in danger for your own selfish reasoning?

Marcus rushed over to me and gripped my shoulder. Mama, I’m sure—

No, I cried. Laz is here injured instead of being with his wife. Who knows if he’ll pull through. All because her needs were far greater than my son’s life.

Valerie sobbed some more, choking as she tried to speak, I’m so sorry. If I could do it all over again, I would gladly switch places with Laz in a heartbeat.

My eyes fell to the ground. What is wrong with you Gloria?

No. I’m sorry. It was wrong what I said to you. I’m upset because my baby—

Valerie placed her hand on the tip of my shoulder. I know and it’s okay. All of this is going to be fine.

Marcus gripped tightened on my other shoulder. Estará bien, Mamá.

I nodded. Once Tiffani is here, it will be.

Valerie’s sobs became louder. She won’t be coming. She’s admitted to the hospital back at Willow’s End.

I snapped my head over to Valerie. What?

She hit her head from fainting after hearing about Laz.

Oh, sweet Jesus. These two don’t deserve this at all. I searched around for a physician. Where the hell are the doctors? We’ve been sitting here for an eternity.

Marcus came and knelt beside me. Mama come on, please. We need to be strong.

How can I be strong when my child has been in surgery with no word on his condition?

A woman in a white doctor’s coat was approaching. I hopped from my seat to step in front of her. Excuse me. Can you please help us?

She gave a soft smile. Sure, how can I help?

I read her nametag. Dr. Pennington. My son Alonzo Ramos was brought in this afternoon from an accident. He’s been in surgery for a long time. Can you please tell me what’s going on?

She patted my hand and led me over to the nurse’s station, walked around, and sat at a computer. I closed my eyes, held my breath, and prayed. I’d hoped it was good news.

God, let my baby boy be okay.

Okay, looks like he’s in surgery for broken ribs and…oh wow, multiple head injuries, she said, her eyes never leaving the computer screen.

My heart sank deep in my stomach. Head injuries? That sounds serious.

Grabbing the seat nearby, I anticipated what was coming next.

"Head injuries can be serious, Dr. Pennington said. Patients have been known to walk away, with no lasting effects. Unfortunately, others have long-term disabilities like learning, walking, and paralysis. Then there is death, if not treated right away."

She smiled and continued, It was good we caught it in time. The next step is to wait and see what the surgeon is able to do for him. She came from around the counter and placed a hand on my shoulder. I wouldn’t worry, your son is in good hands.

I patted her hand and thanked her.

Thank you, doctor, Marcus said, with a nod. He placed his gaze on me. We have to remain here and place it all in the Lord’s hands now. Laz is tough, he’s going to pull through.

Sighing, I pulled my phone out to dial Tiffani once again. Her lovely voice came on. Finally. Oh daughter, thank God. How are you doing?

CHAPTER 4

TIFFANI

Gloria explained what was going on with Laz. She tried speaking in between her sobs; it was difficult to comprehend what she was saying half the time. I even broke down when I heard the words paralysis and death. The thought of him not being able to walk again was unbearable to take in, let alone not seeing him or holding him in my arms. A hard knot was turning rapidly in the pit of my stomach followed by a sea of nausea. I searched for the nearest trash can and leaped out of bed to vomit.

Shit, that was the third time today.

The first time was when the nurses were in here drawing my blood.

The flu has been going around lately, one of them had informed me.

Gloria was yelling for me on the phone.

I made it back to the bed and resumed our conversation. I’m sorry…I had a moment.

I didn’t mean to upset you, she said. I thought you should know what’s going on.

I wiped my mouth with the towel Carlotta left behind. You’re not bothering me at all. I feel so helpless right now, not being able to be there for Laz.

It’s okay, honey, but let’s talk about you. Do the doctors know what’s going on?

I’m hooked up to these machines and they took some blood. There was also a CT scan done, but no word yet on what’s going on.

Intense heat was brewing in my chest, a large lump formed in my throat, and the tears were sizzling as they surfaced under my eyelids. I was struggling to catch my breath as the heat in my chest left a hollow feel.

Tiffani, baby, Gloria said. I need you to breathe. Please calm down sweetheart.

I wish I can be there with you all. You must be so scared.

Don’t worry about me, she said. Laz is going to come through this. Right now, he needs his wife to be strong for him.

I wiped the tears away with the back of my hand. You’re right.

Please get some rest. I’ll call you when I hear more about Laz.

I sniffled. Thank you, Gloria.

Ending the call, I turned to a soft knock at the door. Katrina poked her head in.

Hi, Tiffani. She was holding a bouquet of lilies in her arms as she neared. I heard you were here.

Thank you so much. I took the flowers from her and placed them in my lap. I appreciate you coming to visit.

It’s not a problem really. I called Luisa, she’s arriving sometime tomorrow.

It’s okay. I wasn’t expecting her to be here. My problem is nothing compared to—

Laz came to my mind, the hollowness came back in my chest, and my breaths were coming in fast and shallow.

Oh Tiffani, I’m sorry, Katrina said, sitting next to me. I heard about Laz too. I don’t know if this is the right time to ask this, but have you heard anything?

His mother said he had a few broken ribs and a head injury. I won’t know more until he’s out of surgery.

A lone tear escaped her eye. This is all so tragic.

Her hand landed on the tip of my shoulder. Whatever was on her skin was making me nauseous, again. I jumped off the bed and grabbed the can, shoving my whole head in and emptying the content within it. My stomach and chest heaved as I expelled my insides out.

Oh my god, this fucking sucks.

Katrina came behind me and stroked my back. Did the doctors say what’s going on with you?

If I hear that question one more time, I’m going to fucking scream. Nothing. I haven’t heard a goddamn thing. It feels like it’s been hours since they were last here.

It was as if it was on cue, Dr. Chandra walked in along with nurse Carlotta who was holding a huge grin on her face. I crawled back on the bed and rested my head back as they neared.

Dr. Chandra had his head bowed at my chart. He glanced to do a double-take at Katrina before approaching my side.

Another friend, he said. A strange, faintly eager look flashed in his eyes.

I was now annoyed. Yeah, can I go home now? I need to be with my husband.

Dr. Chandra glanced back to the chart in his hands. Yes…okay…Mrs. Ramos. Your CT scan looks good, your head is fine, nothing to worry about. All other levels are good as well and congratulations.

I snapped my head over to him. What?

Katrina stood wide-eyed. Both Dr. Chandra and Carlotta’s grin grew wider. I didn’t know whether I should run or throw something at them.

Why are you congratulating me?

There was nothing to celebrate while my husband was in surgery and I wasn’t there with him.

Carlotta came and placed her cold hand on mine. You’re going to have a baby, sweetheart.

My mind went blank, then there were muffled sounds all around me. I glanced at everyone in the room who were all sporting huge grins. The room spun faster this time—as if in slow motion, I fell back on the bed and was meeting darkness, once again.

Now what?

CHAPTER 5

LAZ

Her skin was the color of peaches and cream, and hair was a rich glowing auburn that cascaded down her slender back. There was a soft pink color in her sweet, curled lips as she smiled. My heart pounded in my chest as her long slim fingers entwined with mine. Who was she? What was her name? My brother, Marcus walked into the room we’re in. He was holding hands with a gorgeous woman, with a smile that made me weak in the knees. She was slender and her skin was the color of mocha, with eyes that glowed—with every gaze from her large brown eyes, pierced my thumping heart—it was reacting differently than it did with the woman next to me.

My brother’s companion’s eyes were pleading, almost beckoning me to her, yet I was unable to move. The woman with me had a tight clutch on my arm. I glanced to where her nails were digging in my limb, blood was oozing from my appendage leaving a trail along the long-sleeved cream-colored shirt I was wearing.

Marcus and the woman on his arm moved further into the growing crowd. I tried desperately to speak, but nothing was coming out. My heart was pounding fast as the woman next to me pulled me even closer to her.

Her warm mouth grazed my ear as she whispered, You belong to me, and only me. The soft jade of her eyes twinkled as she gazed into mine. I wanted to kiss her, but it didn’t feel right—none of this was feeling right.

I glanced to where Marcus and his woman were—his friend’s beautiful full lips were mouthing the words, Don’t leave me. Come to me.

At a moment’s notice, my legs went numb, my arms were as if they were in restraints, then the room became empty. Not a soul was around, not even the woman next to me was holding my hand, neither was Marcus or the beautiful woman who was on his arm. I was alone in a dim room.

A pleasant voice was humming a soft familiar tune. I tried again to move my arms and legs, but I was forced to remain where I was seated. The tune became louder and there were voices accompanying the humming. Who was here? Where had