Hidden Tears at Lake Cascade

By Tonya F. Mckinley

Samantha Collins is a young homicide detective in South Carolina; she relocated from New Jersey after spending a weekend there during college. Missing her younger sister Vanessa; she persuades her to relocate from New Jersey to attend graduate school. Almost immediately after Vanessa moves in with her, their life seems to be a roller coaster ride after Vanessa meets a young man name Bryan. Bryan, who is white, an aspiring medical student and star quarterback comes from a wealthy family and is smitten by Vanessas beauty the moment he stares into her eyes.




Samantha who is blindsided by her partners addiction to alcohol is disappointed shes unable to spend as much time with Vanessa after being assigned one of Tims (her partners) unsolved case. This unsolved murder mystery leads her on the path to dangerous territory. Because of this, Vanessa who falls for Bryan also begins to spend more time with him and ignores controlling warning signs. As time passes on Samantha is unnerved the homicide shes investigating is more intertwined in her sisters life than she could ever imagine

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Sep 13, 2010
• ISBN: 9781453556412

Tonya F. Mckinley

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Book preview

HIDDEN TEARS AT LAKE CASCADE

Tonya F. Mckinley

Copyright © 2010 by Tonya F. Mckinley.

Library of Congress Control Number:      2010911757

ISBN:                   Hardcover                   978-1-4535-5640-5

                            Softcover                    978-1-4535-5639-9

                            Ebook                         978-1-4535-5641-2

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted

in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system,

without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the

product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance

to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

This book was printed in the United States of America.

To order additional copies of this book, contact:

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CONTENTS

Acknowledgements

Prologue

Chapter One

Arrival

Chapter Two

The Meeting

Chapter Three

Committed

Chapter Four

The Interview

Chapter Five

Home Sweet Home

Chapter Six

Lonely Highway

Chapter Seven

Confirmation

Chapter Eight

Therapy Session

Chapter Nine

Inspection

Chapter Ten

Anticipation

Chapter Eleven

Splash Water

Chapter Twelve

Energy

Chapter Thirteen

0-60

Chapter Fourteen

Green Meadows

Chapter Fifteen

Wyndham Springs

Chapter Sixteen

This Was Our Night

Chapter Seventeen

Dinner for Two

Chapter Eighteen

Game Night

Chapter Nineteen

First Day on the Job

Chapter Twenty

Is that for Me?

Chapter Twenty-One

Breaking News

Chapter Twenty-Two

Speechless Night

Chapter Twenty-Three

Somber

Chapter Twenty-Four

Trust Me

Chapter Twenty-Five

Artfully Sneaky when Necessary

Chapter Twenty-Six

Surprise Visit

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Crooked

Chapter Twenty-Eight

The Night Fell . . . Apart

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Silent but Heard

Chapter Thirty

Wave the Red Flag

Chapter Thirty-One

Steaming

Chapter Thirty-Two

In Sickness

Chapter Thirty-Three

Identity

Chapter Thirty-Four

The Cookout

Chapter Thirty-Five

The Appointment

Chapter Thirty-Six

The Party’s Over

Chapter Thirty-Seven

You Never Know

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I finally finished the first of three novels. What a journey! A journey that seemed impossible if it wasn’t for the loving support I received from friends and family. First, my faith and prayer in Jehovah every night gave me the strength to press on. My wonderful brother Carlos McKinley and his beautiful wife Tresa provided me with the equipment I needed to write my novel outside of the home. The best gift I’ve received thus far. My mother, whose uncompromised love carried me through my darkest hours. My father calling to check on me every other day . . . thanks dad! My grandmother, Mary Baity, a timeless beauty.

My extended sisters and brothers that I spent many hours and days pouring out my soul over the past year. Ms. Kai Simmons-Rogers, Ms. Jannicia Bullock, Ms. Trina Dorsey and Ms. Monique Craig, Ms Crystal McPherson and Karen Glace . . . thank you ladies for never judging, always supporting and keeping me straight. My new additions to the sister family, Ms. Tasha Biltmore and Josephine Prieto in California. Author Mrs. Kisha Green . . . thank you!

Where would I be without the advice from some very wise men? Mr. Alphonzo Twin Hall, Mr. Eric Lackland and Mr. Dre Dubose . . . thank you for the advice and listening. My mentor, Mr. Don Viapree who provided my daily cup of inspiration before I started work. Mr. Paul Sutherland, my close friend of eleven years . . . thank you for still being there . . . (Quack)

Little Miss Camryn Monet McKinley, my gorgeous niece you’re the biggest reason to achieve and never give up. I love you!

I want to thank the Xlibris staff for bringing my book to life with the utmost professionalism and creativity.

Last but not least, my current employer for giving me the inspiration to finish my book! (Wink)

With Love,

Tonya F. McKinley xoxo

PROLOGUE

The azaleas are in full bloom this time of year in South Carolina. As Samantha drove to pick up her sister at the airport, she admired the beauty from a distance, and she thought how amazing something so small could be so powerful and have meaning. Samantha knew once the flowers began to bloom, summer was right around the corner, and the one person that is instrumental in how she lived her life is coming to live with her. The smile on Samantha’s face spread like wildfire from the mere thought of Vanessa visiting this year. After their parents passed away in a car accident several years ago, Samantha assumed the responsibility to raise Vanessa instead of having another relative raise her.

Samantha decided to stay in New Jersey and attend the local college and work at the same time. Her priority was to ensure Vanessa still had normalcy in her life. Although she couldn’t replace the comfort their parents provided, Vanessa’s teen years was abundant with love. During Vanessa’s last year at Rutgers, Samantha made a huge decision to relocate to Columbia, South Carolina, after a weekend getaway in Myrtle Beach. She made a brief stop in the city to be nosey on her way home and fell in love with its beauty. Samantha already had an advantage working three years in the Monmouth County prosecutor’s office after graduating from college. She thought it would be a great idea to apply for a position in the great old city of Columbia. Oh boy, were her prayers answered. She landed a position in beautiful and historical county of Lake Cascade, South Carolina.

CHAPTER ONE

Arrival

Traffic was horrendous this morning, and as usual, Samantha ran late. Flying down the highway, she was tempted to blast the sirens and blow past every Southern slowpoke but what kind of example would she be setting for the law-abiding citizens of this great state. The honorable and not to mention sexy homicide detective breaking laws because she wanted to hit the snooze button several times before getting up, she pictured in her mind. Instead, she used the time to reflect on the journey of life and what the future holds. She was ecstatic Vanessa wasn’t only visiting this time around but she was staying for good. She graduated with honors with a degree in political science and made the choice to attend graduate school at Carson University. There wasn’t any circumstance, event, or achievement in Samantha’s personal life that made her feel the joy that Vanessa’s words provided when she called and said, I’m going to school in South Carolina.

Samantha parked her truck and quickly looked for Continental Airlines’ arrival waiting area. Once she located the baggage claim, she forgot how late she was and didn’t have to search too far for the reason she came there. Sam! She heard this high-pitched voice. Sam! Over here! Samantha turned in the direction of Starbucks, and there she was, her beautiful sister looking more like a model every day. What the heck took you so long? She looked at her happy but frustrated. Sorry, V, you know me, I got delayed by the snooze clock once again, Sam said.

They both cracked a smile at the truth and hugged each other. How was your flight? Did they give you anything to eat? she asked. Vanessa finished paying for her coffee and grabbed her arm. Sis, I ate before I got on the flight. The thought of airplane food makes me ill, Vanessa said, kissing her again. Cool, I have a big dinner planned tonight along with a few friends from work, Samantha said as they walked to the parking lot.

Samantha noticed quickly the attention Vanessa received from men of every color, but especially from white men, and she seemed to notice them also. She has the most amazing honey brown skin complexion, with hair just as long as she is tall. Sometimes, it’s hard to believe she will be twenty-three in June. Samantha always introduced Vanessa as a younger version of herself; full of personality, something she lost in the police business.

So, Samantha, how is the ‘CSI’ business? Are you working on any major cases? Vanessa asked as she put her luggage in the trunk. Yeah, I’m working on a case; however, I won’t quite describe it as major. I think the department is still trying to feel me out. I’m the only female in the homicide division, got promoted in six months, and to put the cherry on top, I’m the only black. They laughed backing out of the parking lot.

Well, we all know if anyone can handle the situation, it’s you. Samantha knew Vanessa listened to her advice over the years. She always told her to stay positive and realize in life we may be the first or the only; however, it doesn’t mean we can’t handle the circumstances presented to us.

I need to stop at the market on the way home. I know you love seafood, so it’s scallops and grilled shrimp tonight, Sam said, making a U-turn on the highway. The weather seemed quite warm that day, and Samantha couldn’t think of a better setting on a warm Friday night. Cocktails flowing, grilled seafood, and in the company of a few good men.

Who did you invite tonight? Vanessa asked with slight hesitation. Remember, I said a few coworkers. Sam replied. "No, Sam, I mean with emphasis on who did you invite? Will I be surrounded by single young men on the guest list or will I have to settle with big guts and graying hair?" Vanessa asked, which caused Sam to chuckle because there will be a little of both.

I think we will have the pleasure of both. A few of the detectives are bringing their wives and my partner is bringing two friends from college, Sam answered. Great! Vanessa said as she let out a sigh of relief. Samantha turned up the radio when she heard the beginning of Alexander O’Neill’s Sunshine. The song seemed to give her goose bumps every time she heard it. She longed for the day of meeting someone that would be her personal sunshine, but until then, it’s all about her career and Vanessa. She got admonished all of the time for thinking that way basing her life on how it would affect Vanessa or her career. Her close friend Jackie reminded her to live her life and make decisions that would benefit her once in a while. She always replied to Jackie God didn’t create trips to the spa once a month for nothing. She felt obligated to her parents to ensure Vanessa is provided half the life she would have received if they still here with us.

The supermarket was especially crowded this afternoon, and Samantha wasn’t in the mood for the attitude of the nose-pierced cashier ringing their order. Are you having a good day? Samantha asked sarcastically to the young lady behind the counter. Yeah, I guess, she said, rolling her eyes. Great! Well, I hope your evening is better, Sam said, picking up the bags to haul out of there. She didn’t want to blow a fuse on the first day her sister arrived. Her temper isn’t one of her attractive qualities. She guessed working in homicide and dealing with the criminals daily provided no education on how to be Miss Suzy Sunshine on her days off.

What was her issue? Vanessa said with a look of disgust on her face. Sweetheart, this is a clear case of someone wearing ‘green’ contacts when they shouldn’t. In short, we like to call it jealousy, Sam said, throwing her keys to Vanessa to drive. Aaah, got it! Vanessa slammed the door to the truck causing Samantha to gasped, You know sis, we need to show respect and love for each other. This jealousy especially amongst us women just has stop.

Vanessa said as she looked in the rearview mirror to fix her hair and apply more lip gloss, It just amazes me the looks I receive sometimes, even after I try to be friendly with people I come in contact with. She continued. Samantha thought to herself she still has a lot to learn about the evil, heartless humans that grace this planet. Unfortunately, everyone is not built with the values and morals their parents instilled in them. A fact Samantha is certain Vanessa will face one day. Until then, Samantha wanted her to see the world through rose-colored glasses.

Vanessa, you will learn in life regardless how many times you flash your pearly whites people will not treat you as you wished to be. My advice: either ignore or pray for them, she said, still admiring the azaleas as the sun began to set. Hum, my choice will be to pray for them. I know many people who need blessings, and I’m sure my prayers are bound to help at least one person, Vanessa responded.

That’s the answer I was looking for and promise me you won’t lose that loving spirit, something I don’t seem to have, Samantha said as an afterthought. They laughed as they approached the development. Wow, Ms. Sam Collins, you sure elevated your status moving into a neighborhood called Cascade Falls at Five Points, and the homes aren’t too bad either, Vanessa said while she took in the scenes.

Well, thanks, I had to make some serious shopping sacrifices to move into my dream home, she said with a smile. Samantha’s home is a work of art according to her viewpoint. It’s a brick ranch-style home with a wraparound porch full of colorful flowers. It was important she had a major backyard with a patio for evenings like tonight. It was mission last year to find the perfect neighborhood. A place after working in the grime and slime of the city she knew she had a peace waiting for her at home. Samantha figured Vanessa would come live with her after she graduated from college. It was inevitable due to the fact that every summer, Thanksgiving, and Christmas holiday, she made her way down here. So subliminally when she was house-hunting, Vanessa was on her mind. She imagined how fascinating the holidays will be in the years to come. Every year, it was the two of them feasting on turkey and stuffing. However, Vanessa’s charisma and gift of gab will surely set the town on fire, especially the neighbors.

They rushed to put the groceries in the house and get their evening started. This will be the first time Samantha’s coworkers will see her in feminine wear and face done up. She tried to sex it down ten notches when she’s at work based on one simple word called respect. Samantha is good at what she does, and she didn’t want to be judged on the curves God blessed her with. Tonight, well, tonight will be another story. Her workout routines are definitely paying off, and she found the perfect spring dress to complement every inch of her body. In the meantime, she rushed to get the appetizers prepared because great body or not, if your food isn’t good, you will hear about it for years to come.

V, do me a favor? Place candles on the patio tables, wash off the chairs, and take the bug zappers out of the shed, Sam said as if she were a drill sergeant in the military. Yeah, okay! Can I put my stuff away before you start barking out orders? she snapped back.

You know what, I’m sorry, you’re right . . . just take care of the candles right now. Put your stuff up and come back and finish, she said with a smirk on her face. Just kidding . . . go take care of yourself first. They laughed. No, that’s okay. I don’t want to mess up my looks being a housekeeper. I’ll do it now! She grabbed the candles out of Sam’s hands and stormed off.

Samantha knew that tactic would work. Vanessa was more of a diva than she would ever be. That’s a special skill she learned as a detective. Agree and tap into something that is near and dear to their heart. It seems to work every time. Samantha didn’t know if it was cool to use it on her sister; however, she was behind schedule after the traffic jam and her inability to get out of bed on time.

Sam! How does everything look outside? Vanessa said with a screeching voice. She stepped out on the patio, and the ambience overwhelmed her. Vanessa rearranged all the tables, and the candles created the perfect setting. She couldn’t imagine how the atmosphere will be when the sun begins to set. Vanessa, you made everything just lovely. Who knew? she said in a pleasing tone.

That’s right; I learned a little something while in college. It’s all about the mood in the air, sis, Vanessa said with a sneaky smile. All right, do I have your permission to get dressed now? Or do you want to bark some more orders? Vanessa said snippy.

I see you learned more than you should while at college. I guess one of the classes you passed is how to get smart with your older sister and love doing it? Samantha said in amazement from the responses V gave her. I don’t need you for anything else right now. You can go beautify yourself. Samantha said, turning on the music as she made her way upstairs.

Everything is seasoned and ready to be grilled, so I think I will get dress my damn self, Sam mumbled to herself, snapping her fingers and dancing by the stairs, eager to get this soirée heated. She felt like a teenage girl about to have her first sleepover. She knew she was acting a little extra; however, she did have ulterior motives by inviting her coworkers into her private space tonight, and she couldn’t wait to see what she planned comes to light. The Collins sisters grew up understanding there is a reason for everything, and as private as Samantha is, she was sure Vanessa is subconsciously thinking there is a method to her madness tonight. Although Samantha enjoyed the art of entertaining, she tried not to associate too much with her coworkers outside of work. But tonight . . . tonight is different.

CHAPTER TWO

The Meeting

Sam, what do you think? Vanessa said as she opened the door to my bedroom. Wow, V, you look amazing, the dress is lovely on you and accenting all of the right places, she said with a smile. Your hair and makeup is perfect, Sam continued, running her fingers through her long hair. Well, I’m trying to keep up with you. I think you look as good as me tonight, Vanessa said with a chuckle. Yeah, I agree. Mom and Dad had sex at the right time to create these genes, Sam said as she applied pink lip gloss to her full set of lips. Disgusting! I bet none of your coworkers have seen you quite like this before, Vanessa said. You’re absolutely correct! I barely go out with them and spend most of my time in the office or in the gym, she said, walking downstairs.

The house smelled like fresh flowers and powder from our perfume. So why now? Vanessa asked curiously. You mean why the party now? Sam knew what and why she was asking the question. Vanessa knows this wasn’t her sister modus operandi when it came to mixing her professional and social life. Samantha even advised her when she graduated from college not to mix her personal and professional life due to the drama that resulted from it.

Yes, why the party now, I would never have thought in a million years you would invite your paycheck to the house, Vanessa said in a confident tone. My paycheck? Sam questioned dumbfounded. Yeah, you know, your job, Vanessa clarified. No reason . . . just want to celebrate you moving here, Sam replied, rushing downstairs to take the drinks and salads out of the refrigerator to avoid further questioning. She refused to be dishonest to the one person who keeps her world spinning every day.

Are you avoiding me for a reason? You like someone at work, don’t you? Vanessa said, blocking Sam’s way to the patio with both hands. Look, V, if and when I’m interested in a human being called a man I will let you know . . . now either help me or excuse yourself from the doorway, Sam said, giving her a peck on the cheek.

The scented candles had the backyard smelling like an upscale day spa. Samantha found them in this quaint store on the Jersey Shore; the owner called the scent pound cake, and it piqued her interests. The first time she lit the candles during her regular bubble baths, she wanted to explode in ecstasy. The smell was alluring and sensual, and that was the only moment she desired a man to partake in such pleasure. Instead, she settled for a bedroom gadget she purchased from the local toy shop. Immediately after that she was hooked for life. There is nothing better than a bubble bath, a glass of wine, and pound cake candles followed by a little personal relaxation. Okay, enough of the sinful thoughts, I have guests coming this evening. Sam mumbled in her head

. She didn’t know how sophisticated her coworkers were; however, she wanted to invite them to the sounds of Boney James tonight. With her mind still stuck on bubble baths and jazz, she figured one of the two isn’t bad.

Vanessa, last favor for the evening, can you change the current CD to the Boney James CD titled ‘Shine’? Sam said, getting charcoal for the grill. Sure, I see you are picking up Dad’s great habits; he was a jazz fiend, Vanessa said as she took the current CD out. Yes, but Dad was a fan of Duke Ellington and Coltrane; not me, I like my music slow and smooth. They both laughed.

Just so you know my neighbor agreed to come over and grill for us. I believe he’s bringing his sister. Sam said. Okay, I need to know this why? She turned the music up louder than Sam wanted. Well, let’s see, you may wonder why there is a man walking up to the front door with a chef hat and apron on looking like a fool, Sam answered, looking out the pantry window. No, actually I was wondering who the competition is with the blond hair walking next to him, Vanessa said, putting her hands on her hip. Yup, that’s Mark and his sister Amanda, Sam said, hurrying to open the door for Mark who was carrying his grill equipment.

Ladies, the man of the hour has arrived, Mark said charmingly. Mark’s smile has to be worth a million dollars. When Sam first moved into the neighborhood, he walked over and just showed his pearly whites. His smile spoke volumes to her without saying a word. There is nothing like letting everyone know you have finally arrived, Sam said jokingly as she let them in.

Mark and Amanda, this is my sister Vanessa. Vanessa, this is Mark and Amanda Ricci, my lovely neighbors. Vanessa stuck her hand out to shake theirs. Oh no, honey, we don’t do that around here, Amanda said with a Southern belle accent. We hug and kiss in this neck of the woods. She grabbed Vanessa with a bear hug. Vanessa gave a confused look. Vanessa, it’s a pleasure to meet you. Your sister has told us so much about you it’s like we already know your life, Mark said as he kissed her on the left cheek. Now, I might have an ally to convince Ms. Sam to have a Friday night cocktail with me before the night is over. Mark looked over at Samantha like a man on the prowl. Oh, Mark, you need to stop sharing your unattainable desires to the world. Honestly, I don’t think anyone is really interested, Sam said, snatching his grilling equipment and began to move everyone to the patio.

She felt her blood pressure increase and her heart palpitate. She knew deep inside every Friday night Mark knocked on the door to join him for cocktails she felt a chill trickle down her spine. Mark definitely has all of the qualities she wanted if she wanted a committed relationship. Seriously, he is a successful attorney, tall, great teeth, and extremely athletic. There is one slight problem with the skin color. Mark happens to be white, and she had no desire to add more drama than necessary to her life.

So, Mark, you want to go out with my sister? Vanessa asked, throwing a sneaky smile Sam’s way. Who wouldn’t want to have the pleasure of being in your sister’s company? Mark said, making his way to the patio. Vanessa grabbed Samantha on her arm while she tried to ignore the last comment. What’s the issue? Vanessa’s tone changed to a serious one. There is no issue at all. We’ve discussed this topic numerous times on the phone. I’m not ready to get involved in a relationship that requires me to be unselfish, Sam said, knowing it was bullshit, and Vanessa read right through it. If anyone knew how Samantha felt about the importance of a healthy African-American family, it’s her. Really! Are you sure this has nothing to do with him having to tan to get a little color? We both laughed and headed outside. Yeah, that could be it; however, I know you have a strong attraction to our tanned brothers, so don’t I want to offend you . . . Vanessa sat down in the seat closest to the grill and winked at her as to totally disregard what Sam told her.

Mark fired up the grill, and the aroma immediately coming from the charcoal sent their taste buds into overdrive. In addition to the seafood on the menu, the older couple next door to Samantha brought over a rack of ribs and corn on the cob to grill. So whatever Mark seasoned those ribs with lit up the neighborhood like the fourth of July. Samantha stood at the patio door secretly watching Mark take pleasure in the reigning title of grill master in the neighborhood. Their neighbor Susan who lives at the end of the cul de sac told her Mark is the best griller on the block, and of course, she had to mention how very single he is. .

Sam barely stepped into the kitchen, before noticing five handsome men staring over the white wooden gate in the backyard. Don’t just stand there Tim bring your entourage Sam said, closing the screen door. He was standing there for a moment holding a brown bag in the air moving his body to the music blaring out of the speakers. What’s up girl? Tim said, making a grand entrance. The party has just officially started, he shouted.

Sam grinning like a Cheshire cat ran over to Tim, hugging him ferociously. Everyone, this is my partner in crime, Mr. Tim Krier, as you can tell he’s the obnoxious one in the office, Sam exclaimed, taking the bottles of alcohol from his hand. So, Tim, who did you invite to my house without asking? she whispered in his ear while pinching him in his back. Let me introduce you to the crew! He held Sam’s hand, dragging her to the young men standing in the corner.

Sam, this is my younger brother Phillip, childhood friend’s Bryan and Dixon, and our cousin Justin, Tim said pointing to each of them. Sam greeted them, inspecting their looks. She took special interest in one immediately; she thought the one name Bryan would especially grab Vanessa’s attention. He is definitely her type. Very athletic, brown hair, brown eyes, and tanned skin. They seem to be the same age. Sam made a mental note to investigate more about him. Well, guys make yourselves comfortable, and I will introduce you to the rest of the gang, she said, happy Tim showed up.

In her eyes, Tim was heaven-sent. When she was promoted in the department, Tim took her under his wings and showed her what it took to be a detailed investigator. He stressed the importance of thinking logically on the job and never put emotion into any case regardless of how troublesome it may be. A lesson she learned to live by which unfortunately has maneuvered its way into her personal life. Fellas, this is my beautiful sister Ms. Vanessa Collins and my neighbors Mark and Amanda Ricci. Sam introduced everyone.

With no surprise, Vanessa and Amanda wasted no time exchanging pleasantries with the young men. Sam smiled, viewing the look on Mark’s face after the girls pushed him out of the way. Okay, girls, no need to bulldoze me over, it’s not like you’re walking into the Promised Land, their men, Mark said throwing more burgers on the grill. Amanda turned to hit her brother on the head. Mark, zip the trap, do I say anything when you watch Samantha walking to her car every morning? Amanda quipped, embarrassing Mark whose face turned red. She stuck her tongue at him, fixed her hair, dress and engaged in entertaining conversation with three of the men.

Oh, okay, Mandy, you got me. If anyone cares, I’m Mark, the blonde ‘desperado’s, brother, just in case you’re interested, Mark said, joining the group of men. At that moment, Sam was thrilled it might be a fascinating evening; especially watching Vanessa make a fool of herself, nearly running Mark over to personally introduce herself to the boys. All the advice she gave her growing up pertaining men just flew right out the door.

Whatever happens to letting a man meet your acquaintance not the other way around?, she thought silently. Sam was going to wait if anything comes from this, looking at the guys make their way to Vanessa and Amanda chatting with Mark. So what’s your name, sexy? Justin said in a demoralizing way to Vanessa. Ah, you obviously know my name as sexy, so let’s just leave it at that, Vanessa walked away from him, appearing very disgusted. Do you have to leave so soon? Justin said sarcastically. Take it back a notch man; I guess you weren’t taught how to greet a beautiful woman!" Bryan said to Justin, pushing him out of his way to follow Vanessa to the kitchen.

Vanessa was looking in the freezer to bring more ice outside. She put the ice out a little too early and it began to melt on the patio. "Hello, excuse me, can you tell where