The Next Move

By Hilda A. Stephens

The news travel fast around Washington D.C. and the score has not been settled between Braxton DePaul and his music producer. Braxton is a main character in the book series, God, Is This My Man.
Although his behavior has not change, he think he can get whatever he wants and whatever pleases him, including a certain young lady. The plot thickens and Braxton finds himself, alone, confused and out of a job.
Just when things seems to be going his, he find out, the young lady he loves is not willing to give up anything, but they continue down a deep dark secret path, that no one know how it will end.
Braxton is ready to risk it all, but there is someone standing in his way. This mysterious person holds the key to Braxton’s future and the odds is not in Braxton’s favor. It is a showdown to the bitter end. How far is Braxton willing to go to get what he thinks he deserves.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Sep 3, 2021
• ISBN: 9781664192812

Hilda A. Stephens

Hilda A. Stephens is a published author of two books: “God is This my Man” and “God is This my Man part 2 The Saga Continues.” Hilda is a graduate of Ashworth University with a degree in Psychology and certification in writing children’s books. Hilda’s gift has inspired her to write four children book, three stage plays and thirty-five song lyrics. Hilda is the mother of one daughter, Latesha, son-in-law Terrance and three grandchildren MonTerris, Shayla and Jahvon. Hilda resides in Durham, North Carolina.

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Copyright © 2021 by Hilda A. Stephens.

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.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Rev. date: 08/30/2021

Xlibris

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CONTENTS

Braxton DePaul Stays in Washington DC

Good News

Are You Losing Your Mind?

The Trip to Boston

The Call to Braxton DePaul

It Is My Decision

Braxton DePaul’s Plan

Black Label Records Celebration

The Visit

It Is Time for Change

Paris Morganton Arrested

Braxton DePaul Recovers

Can We Talk?

Nathan and Shavonna’s Night Out

Falling in Love Again

The Trip to New York

The Visit with Paris and Patrice

The Visit

It Is Your Move, Patrice

The News

It Is Not Over

The Separation

Who Shot Braxton DePaul?

The Wedding of Braxton and Alana

Braxton DePaul Stays

in Washington DC

N athan Tidwell is Braxton DePaul’s father, and things change immediately. Nathan wants his son close by, but Braxton thinks it is best to return to Paris, France. Nathan agrees but promises to visit his son and grandson within a month. They embrace. Braxton waves and quickly leaves with Emilie to catch the flight. Nathan picks up his briefcase, tears flowing, and turns to leave when he hears a voice calling out.

Wait, Dad, I can’t leave, I miss you already. I hope I’m making the right decision. It definitely feels right.

Follow your heart, son. I do not know where to begin. It’s like a dream come true. All this time, and you are truly my son.

In my heart, I knew you were always my father—well, I always wanted you to be. We have a special bond.

I’m glad. Let us go home, son.

This is just the beginning for Nathan and Braxton, but there are plenty of surprises along the way; but for now, Nathan and Braxton are happy. The news travels fast that Braxton DePaul is staying in Washington DC until his divorce and the custody of his child is finalized. Braxton is content because Nathan is taking care of everything.

Today Braxton DePaul is scheduled to meet with Paris to discuss a new contract. The black limo pulls in at Black Label Record. Braxton exits the car looking stunning than ever; some fans cheers. Braxton waves and signs a few autographs and hurries inside. Paris rushes in the conference room; he knows Braxton has entered the building.

Good morning, Mr. DePaul. Are you ready to get down to business?

Good morning. Let us do this. Braxton removes his coat.

Paris calls for Patrice to join the meeting. In walks Patrice, who is four months pregnant. Braxton could not keep his eyes off Patrice as she gives Paris a kiss.

Good morning, Mr. DePaul. How is Washington treating you?

I really don’t know, it’s too soon.

Paris listens to Braxton’s tone; he is not sure, but there is something Braxton wants. Paris pulls the contract from the file and begins to read over the information while Patrice jots down a few notes. Braxton listens carefully. Paris finishes reading the contract, and Braxton sighs.

Is this the best you can offer?

It’s more than fair, Mr. DePaul, Patrice responds.

I need some time to think this over. I am in the States now. Mr. Morganton, I have made you and this company a lot of money. I think it is time I receive my reward for all my hard work. Do not get me wrong, it is a fair contract, but I am worth more. I had ten number one hits in the last five years. I think that counts for something.

How much do you think you are worth, Mr. DePaul? Paris looks over his black-rimmed glasses.

Let us not play games. Without me, there is no Black Label Records. Mr. Morganton, you wouldn’t have much of a company.

Patrice is surprised by Braxton’s cocky attitude. Paris closes the contract.

I’m sorry you feel this way. Why don’t you take some time to think about my offer? I hope it’s not too long. I would hate for you to depart from this company.

I will be in touch, Mr. Morganton. Sometimes, it is for the best. It was nice to see you again, Patrice.

The same here, Mr. DePaul.

Paris closes the door. He cannot understand Braxton’s attitude. Patrice looks over her notes.

Let me talk with Braxton.

What can you say that I didn’t say?

Trust me! It is how you say it that gets the deal. Can we do lunch?

Sure, I will see you at noon.

Patrice hurries back to office to make the call. Braxton, this is Patrice.

How may I help you?

The question is. How may I assist you?

What do you mean?

What do you want from Black Label Records?

I want the truth. That’s all.

What are you talking about? My husband has been more than generous to you.

This is not about your husband.

Then what is this about, Mr. DePaul?

Are you carrying my baby?

Patrice is silent. What gives you that idea?

I’m not stupid, it’s the timing.

How could you be so silly? I’m not pregnant by you.

Are you telling me the truth?

I’m sorry, Braxton, this call is about business. May I please finish?

Take all the time you need.

Mr. DePaul, as I stated, What do you want from Black Label Records?

That’s easy. I want you.

I’m sorry. I’m not part of the contract, and besides, I’m not available.

I guess we have nothing else to talk about.

Please, Braxton, I know we can work something out.

We can, if you say yes to dinner tonight.

It depends, is Paris invited?

You know the answer to that question.

Patrice pauses. Mr. DePaul, I will see you 8:00 p.m. at Chateau.

I will stay in New York, leave Paris at home.

I understand this is strictly business, Mr. DePaul. I do not plan to waste my time. You will agree to the contract or else.

Patrice, this sounds like a threat, I’m enticed.

Mr. DePaul, you will sign the contract, or you will never have . . . shall I put it this way . . . a record deal anywhere. Good day, Mr. DePaul. Patrice hangs up.

Braxton leans back. Patrice has his attention. Patrice smiles as she continues to work. There is a knock at the door.

Are you ready for lunch?

Great timing.

Are you going to fill me in on the details? Paris kisses Patrice’s hand.

Relax, Paris. This is going to be easy.

Patrice, what did you promise Mr. DePaul?

You worry too much, Paris, trust me. Patrice has a twinkle in her eyes. If Mr. DePaul wants to play hardball, I’m ready for a good game.

I don’t like this.

I know you wouldn’t. That is why I am meeting Mr. DePaul alone, tonight.

Paris stops in his tracks. I won’t allow this.

Paris, it’s my job, and it’s going to happen tonight. Patrice walks away. Paris hurries to open the door.

I see your mind is made up.

Paris, let it go. We need Mr. DePaul to sign the contract. Braxton is right, we have made a lot of money. Let’s give Mr. DePaul what he wants.

And what is that?

I’m thinking, and whatever it is, it’s not going to be pretty.

I’m troubled by this.

Paris, what is your reason?

Patrice, for god’s sake, you are carrying my child. I don’t want you stressed-out?

I’m not the one stressed-out. You better pray for Mr. DePaul.

Paris takes a quick look at Patrice. I’ve never seen this side of you.

Patrice smiles. Paris, welcome to the big girl club.

Paris is extremely worried. Patrice did most of the talking at lunch. Paris quietly listens. Patrice knows Paris is trouble. She reassures Paris that tonight’s meeting is going to work.

Braxton needs to know who is in charge. We’ll be fine.

I trust you.

In the meantime, Braxton makes a call to Nathan. Hello, Dad, something has come up? I need to stay in New York. How is Emilie?

Your son is fine, Shavonna is having a blast.

I’m sorry for the inconvenience. I didn’t plan on staying in New York but—

Take your time, son. I’m here if you need anything.

Braxton is quiet.

Is something wrong?

I don’t know yet.

What do you mean?

I don’t like what’s going down.

What are you talking about?

It’s Patrice.

What about Patrice?

Something is different. She trying to threaten me into signing the contract.

I know you are not going to take this lying down.

I don’t have much choice. If I don’t adhere to what Black Label Records wants, I may never get another record deal.

You sound troubled by this.’

Music is my life. I don’t want to give this up now.

Son, law is your life. Paris is trying to intimidate you.

It’s not Paris. I’m concerned about Patrice.

What brought this on? Did you say something to Patrice?

I did, but . . .

What, Braxton?

It’s too soon to talk about this. I will be fine. It is just a bad case of nerves. Please kiss Emilie for me, I will call soon.

I love you, son.

I love you too, Dad. Braxton tries to prepare for tonight’s meeting. Nathan wants to help but decides this is Braxton’s battle, he must fight this alone.

Paris and Patrice return to office. Paris’s mind lingers on tonight’s meeting.

There is nothing Paris could say to convince Patrice not to attend the meeting with Mr. DePaul. Patrice is up for challenge, and nothing is going to get in her way. The afternoon is quite while Paris and Patrice continue to work. Braxton tries to sleep but wonders what Patrice is up to.

It is now 5:00 p.m. Patrice decides to go home and get prepared for the meeting. Paris decides to stay around the office a few more hours, but insists if Patrice needs anything, he will be available. Patrice gives Paris a quick smack on the lips and waves goodbye.

Paris tries to pretend he is okay with the meeting, but Patrice knows the truth. Patrice has more than one reason for meeting with Braxton DePaul. The more Paris thinks about the meeting, the more he became concerned. Patrice hurries home to take a nap and get her thoughts together. Paris is anxious; he desperately needs to talk with Braxton. Finally, Paris makes the call.

Hello.

Mr. DePaul, this is Paris Morganton. I need to— Paris stops.

Please, what do you need, Mr. Morganton?

I need you to go easy on my wife. Whatever Patrice asks you to do, I want you to agree. It will benefit you in the end.

Mr. Morganton, Patrice is a big girl. I’m sure Patrice can handle this.

I’m sure as well, Mr. DePaul, but my wife doesn’t need the added stress, and neither do you.

I didn’t set up this meeting. Whatever Patrice has in her pretty little head, I’m ready for it.

What do you want, Mr. DePaul?

Paris, the game has changed. I am raising the stakes. I am sure Patrice and I will be able to work out something. If you do not mind, I need to get ready for my meeting.

Mr. DePaul, please listen. If anything happens to my wife and child, I will hunt you down. Good night, Mr. DePaul. Paris slams the phone down; he is furious. Braxton laughs to himself as he prepares for the meeting, but Braxton wonders why Paris is so upset.

Patrice is awake; she quickly pulls from the closet a pink cashmere dress, a sleek pair of slings back shoes and diamond earrings. Patrice checks the time before hitting the shower. Paris makes one last attempt with Patrice before leaving for the meeting.

Braxton calls for a cab and heads to Chateau; he waits inside. Braxton does not want to admit it, but he is somewhat concerned about the meeting. Something has Paris on edge, and it is more than the contract. Patrice walks inside and waves to Braxton. The host immediately seats them. Braxton takes a quick glance. Patrice is extremely calm.

I’m glad you’re here, Mr. DePaul. Would you like to order?

What’s the rush? I’m admiring the view.

Mr. DePaul, I’m not here to play games.

Braxton leans forward. What is this about, Patrice?

I have some valuable information that I need to share with you. Please look at the new contract. I know it’s something we both can agree on.

Braxton removes the contract from Patrice’s hand; inside the contract is a note. It reads: Would you like to see your child? Sign the damn contract.

What does this mean?

Congratulations, Daddy.

This is my child.

That’s right. You can sign the contract or give up all your rights as the father.

What about Paris? Does he know?

"No, and I plan to keep it that way. Here is list of the things I need you to do. Can you handle this?

Yes, anything, baby.

We will meet once a month. I will give you an update about the baby. Braxton, don’t blow this.

I won’t. I promise. I love you so much.

I love you too.

Patrice hands Braxton the pen. Braxton immediately signs.

It’s nice doing business with you, Mr. DePaul, shall we order? Braxton could not keep his eyes off Patrice. The meeting and dinner was short. Patrice whispers, We will talk soon, good night.

Braxton sits for a few minutes, trying to gather his thoughts. He cannot believe the news. Patrice quickly unlocks the car door and takes a glance in the mirror and smiles and whispers, Mr. DePaul, I got you just where I want you.

Good News

I t has been a while since the Tidwells and Albrights have been out since Nathan’s encounters with Sheena. Nathan is looking forward to tonight’s dinner plans. Marco is not in the mood and implies he is only doing this for Sheena. Nathan called early in the week and said he has some good news he wanted to share with Sheena and M arco.

Nathan and Shavonna decided B21 is the place to meet for dinner. It is where it all began for the couple. Shavonna is uneasy about facing Marco since she was part of his arrest in California, but she will do anything to keep her man happy. While Marco and Sheena prepare for dinner, all sorts of questions are going on in Marco’s head.

Do you have any idea what Nathan Tidwell has on his mind?

No, Sheena answers.

That’s odd. Nathan didn’t give you a clue.

No, Nathan didn’t give me a clue, but it’s something special.

Well, I hope this doesn’t take all night.

Marco, it’s been a while since we had a night out. Let us enjoy this.

Marco pulls in at B21. The place is crowded. Sheena and Marco make their way inside. The host greets them at the door. Attorney Tidwell is waiting. May I take your coats? Follow me, sir.

Nathan stands. Hello, Marco and Sheena. It is good to see you. It’s been too long.

It’s good to see you as well.

Marco, what shall it be tonight, white or red wine?

Nothing for me, water will be fine.

Sheena, may I get something for you?

A glass of white wine would be nice.

Marco quickly replies, Make that two, please.

Shavonna is reserved. She does not know what to say to Marco since the episode. Marco puts Shavonna at ease. You look beautiful tonight.

Thank you, Judge Albright. There is something I need to say.

Nathan looks up. He has no idea what Shavonna is going to say, but he hopes she does bring up the incident in California.

What is it, dear? Nathan asks.

It can wait.

Shall we order? Nathan smiles.

Shavonna has something to say to Marco, but Nathan’s look quieted Shavonna down but not Sheena.

Nathan, wait. Shavonna has something to ask my husband.

No, Nathan is ready to share the good news.

What is your news?

I still can’t believe it. This is something I dreamed about, and now my dream has come true. I got some wonderful news. Two months ago, I found out that I had a son.

That’s wonderful, Sheena answers. Marco does not say a word.

The good news is my son has been with me all the time.

Marco sits up.

Nathan takes a deep breath. Braxton DePaul is my biological son. I had no idea. Nancy told me after the death of Frank DePaul.

Marco’s mouth flies open, Damn, Braxton DePaul is your son.

I can’t believe this. Braxton is a wonderful son.

Yes, if he stays away from my daughter.

Well, I’m happy, this causes for a toast. Sheena smiles. I hope your life will be filled with much joy and happiness.

Where is Braxton?

Braxton is stuck in New York. Something to do with some damn contract Paris is pushing Braxton to sign.

Marco takes a sip of white wine before he excuses himself from the table. This is getting to be a bit much for him. Marco rushes into the restroom. He pulls his cell phone from his pocket to call Patrice. No answer. Marco tries again. The call goes straight to voice mail. Marco calls Paris. On the first ring, Paris answers.

Hello.

Paris, how are you, son?

I’m fine, sir.

Is Patrice with you?

No, sir, Patrice had a scheduled meeting with Mr. DePaul. Is something wrong?

No. I need to talk with Patrice, immediately.

I will give Patrice the message.

Thank you, Paris. Have a good evening.

I will, sir.

Marco returns to the table. Shavonna and Nathan are making small talk as Sheena looks on.

Is everything okay? Nathan asks.

Yes. Sheena, would you like to dance?

Sheena and Marco hit the dance floor. Marco tries to do anything to show he is not interested in dinner. They both have other things on their mind. Dinner arrives; the table is completely quiet, not one word is spoken.

Nathan finally looks up. Things have changed.

What do you mean? Marco asks.

Is anyone really having fun?

To tell the truth, I’m ready to go home and spend some time with my children. Sheena laughs.

I have a suggestion, let’s go to a show.

I’m sorry, Shavonna. I am not in the mood. Why don’t we just call it a night? Sheena takes a sip of white wine.

You can’t be serious, Nathan adds.

I agree with my wife, thanks for the invite. We are going home.

Nathan and Shavonna decide to stay, but he could not wait to find out what’s on Shavonna’s mind. Nathan starts the conversation.

Did Marco seem uptight tonight?

Marco seemed like his normal self, arrogant as usual.

Are you ready to share what’s on your mind?

Do we have to talk about this now?

Why not, you had something you wanted to say earlier to Marco.

It’s not important, please, let’s forget it.

I can’t, you put Sheena in an uncomfortable position.

Sheena! This is not about Sheena.

What is this about?

Listen, Nathan. I was going to tell Marco I was sorry about what happened in California. That’s all.

How would Sheena respond to your comment?

I don’t know. I’m addressing Marco.

That’s your problem. Marco is Sheena’s husband. Why in the world would you say something like that? You’re sending a message that you know something about Marco that Sheena does not know.

I’m sure Marco talks to Sheena.

Sheena has no idea you were behind this mess. It’s best you keep your mouth closed if you expect to have a relationship with Sheena.

I’m sure, Nathan, you are not trying to protect me. Are you afraid that you wouldn’t have a relationship with Sheena and her daughter?

I’ve had enough. Are you ready to go? I need to check on my grandson.

Nathan leaves the table. Shavonna grabs her handbag. Nathan, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you.

I’m not upset. We can talk about this later. The drive home is quiet. Nathan pulls in the driveway. Please go in, check on Emilie. I will be in soon.

Shavonna slowly opens the door. Nathan, I’m sorry.

I understand. Nathan smiles as he sits, trying to get his thoughts together concerning Shavonna’s comment. Shavonna is right, Nathan is still in love with Mrs. Sheena Jackson Albright. The pain in Nathan’s heart never leaves; he clears his mind and hurries inside.

Marco and Sheena are home resting. The kids are asleep. This seems like the perfect time for Sheena to get her question answered. Sheena moves close to Marco.

I didn’t enjoy tonight.

Marco keeps reading.

Marco.

Yes, sweetheart.

What about you?

What about me?

Did you enjoy dinner tonight?

No, not really. Is there something you’re trying to ask me?

You know me too well. Yes, there is.

What can I help you with? Marco put down the book.

Tonight, Shavonna was going to ask you something.

I have no idea what Shavonna was going to say.

Why did Nathan stop Shavonna?

You are asking the wrong person. Stop thinking so much about Shavonna.

If you knew something, would you share it with me?

I would, Sheena. I love you.

"I love you