Aiden Lewis Octet Book 4 - Bravado: Aiden Lewis Octet, #4

By Yvonne Marrs

Now that the foursome have moved to a larger, shared house up on The Downs, Aiden and Nicole's seafront apartment is empty. But not for long as Aiden's son, Harry, seeks a fresh start after his surprise divorce. He also undergoes a trial to become Assistant Manager at Eastbourne Borough, the local football team.

Whilst Aiden struggles with illness, Nicole vetoes invitations to play tennis all around the world - both with Charlotte and mixed doubles with Mike. Her concentration isn't there for her writing either. Eventually, she decides to take on publishing their books herself, unable to fulfil any company's demands - and unwilling to put anything in front of Aiden's health.

Justin and Lynn too have a surprise in between all of this when their son, James, turns up unannounced with partner Jonathan.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WTSMP Publications
• Release date: May 19, 2017
• ISBN: 9798201821999

Yvonne Marrs

Invernesian Yvonne Marrs (1982-present day) has loved writing for as long as she can remember, moving to the London area at the age of 19 to pursue her dream of becoming a published author. Yvonne graduated from UHI (Inverness College) with an HND in Administration and Information Management, a set of skills she puts to good use to organise herself and her work - especially as she has her own publishing company, WTSMP Publications. Currently Yvonne has published several fictional series - the 'When The Sax Man Plays' series, the 'Football Crazy' series, the 'Aiden Lewis octet', 'Can't Buy Health' series and 'Undeserved'. Yvonne dreamt up the idea that formed the "When The Sax Man Plays" (WTSMP) series after falling in love with saxophone music, and being inspired by Leona Lewis' dream X Factor win. To throw an ordinary person in an ordinary job, with an extraordinary talent into superstardom is the story behind WTSMP. The central character, Jason Bottelli is such a person, although we soon discover he is far from ordinary! If you like your fiction easy going, entertaining, enthralling and heart-warming, you'll fall in love with the musical romance that is the WTSMP series. The ever popular "Football Crazy" series follows our central character, Aiden Lewis, as he rises through the football ranks. From club player to International sensation; through to his management career, leading England into the World Cup and then his brother's local team, the London Giants, from nowhere into the Premiership as the series progresses. Aiden's story continues with the 'Aiden Lewis octet', finishing with 'Undeserved'. There are standalone books as well as those in a series: 'Castiliano Vulgo' - a fictional work on 16th Century London life written using both Elizabethan English and Modern English. 'Inexorable' - a murder erotica written as part of the NaNoWriMo challenge in 2016. 'Putting the Visible into So Called Invisible Illnesses' - a work of 50 poems about living with invisible illnesses, as Yvonne does. 'Harbourtown Murder' - a murder mystery set in fictional Cornwall where a stray cat is the only witness.

Book preview

Chapter 1

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Aiden's expression was creased with worry, Nicole saw, feeling a sense of deja vu about it all. Which of his offspring was causing a problem this time, she wondered.

Ady? She moved nearer him, disturbing him from his thoughts. What's wrong? 

Harry. He said simply, and sighed. Ava has applied for sole custody of the children and has filed for divorce.

Nicole winced. Poor Harry. She shook her head. How is he?

Aiden too shook his head, unable to find the words. He's on his way. I suggested he stay with us for a while, get out of London, have a change of scene.

Nicole nodded, kissing his cheek. That sounds like a good idea.

Aiden sat back, lost in his whirling thoughts. Checking he was fine, she made her way to the central part of the house to find Justin and Lynn, informing them of their forthcoming guest and the reason for his visit.

Returning then to their part of the house, she found Aiden sitting on the edge of the sofa, shaking his head sadly. Wordlessly, she put her arms around him, holding him in close, smiling when he kissed the top of her head and placed his arms around her.

He'll be okay. She said suddenly into the silence.

Aiden nodded against her. I feel for him.

So do I. Nicole agreed. He's too kind-hearted. She'll walk all over him in court.

Aiden then shook his head. Not at all. We'll let our legal team help him.

Nicole smiled deviously at his thinking.

The four were in the common room when Harry arrived. Sitting beside Aiden on the sofa, he allowed Nicole to take his hand, his expression desolate and emotional.

She's a bloody idiot. Nicole spoke into the silence.

Lynn, Justin and Aiden looked at her horrified.

Harry smiled then, briefly. I'm the bloody idiot who still loves her. His eyes had lost their sparkle. He sighed, rubbing his face tiredly with his free hand.

Nicole gently squeezed his hand, surprised he hadn't let go.

Justin cleared his throat, recalling the first time, an age ago now, he knew Harry was having marriage trouble. You can stay here as long as you want.

Thank you. Harry whispered. He swallowed hard, fighting his tears. I feel so... He let go of Nicole's hand as he sat back against the plump cushions, hiding his face in his hands. Betrayed. He took a shaky breath. And destroyed. He shook his head sorrowfully. How could she? An angry overtone crept into his voice. I gave her everything!

Aiden spoke quietly. It's funny how she decided to leave once you stopped playing.

Harry's hands dropped to his side, his mouth open as he looked at Aiden.

Why do you think I was so adamant about an iron tight prenup? Aiden continued. She wanted you for the fame and fortune, not for you.

Lynn gasped, and Justin too was horrified.

Why didn't you say anything before? Harry asked him, dangerously quietly.

I did. You never took any notice. Aiden shrugged.

Again Harry's mouth fell open. You didn't talk sense into me? You always talked sense into Ella and Sadie.

Aiden shrugged again. I figured you'd rebel.

Rebel! Harry spluttered. Why the hell would I?

Lee was convinced you'd rebel one day.

Harry looked at him, stunned.

I always thought you wouldn't, but... Aiden tailed off.

Nicole saw Justin and Lynn slip out of the room.

Aiden continued. Besides, your sisters need sense talking into them. You never let me down.

Harry got up, slowly. He turned and looked directly at Aiden. I never let you down? But...

Aiden shook his head. No buts.

B-but...

You didn't have the best start in life, Aiden began patiently, nobody would've held a rebellion against you.

You did so much for me. Harry shook his head. You and Leah gave me everything. You gave me hope, love and security. Tears glistened in his eyes.

Nicole felt herself well up, but Aiden was smiling.

You gave me a future when I was caught up in my past. Harry’s bottom lip trembled. How did I screw it up so badly? His gaze dropped to the floor.

You didn't. Aiden sat forward on the edge of the sofa, leaning towards him. "She did. She took you for a ride. He shook his head. That's why we're not going to stand for any crap. We're going to fight her every step of the way."

Harry's gaze shot to his face. We? He repeated.

Yes. Nicole and Aiden answered together.

Again Harry's jaw dropped open. He took several steps towards Nicole, and hugged her then. Aiden joined in, hugging both of them.

Chapter 2

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Nicole saw Harry was awake the next morning early, although she'd heard no sound from his room.

Are you alright? He asked her, before she could speak.

She nodded. We're fine. Aiden's having his pills so I thought I'd check up on you.

It was Harry's turn to nod. He's been okay, hasn't he? Fear echoed in his voice.

Yes. Nicole smiled at him reassuringly. He now rattles, but he's okay. She joked.

Harry smiled with her tease. Poor soul. I'm so glad he has you. He sat up to offer her a hug. You've kept him on the straight and narrow.

Nicole nodded. Your Dad is wonderful to me too. I'm very lucky to have him. She gave him a gentle squeeze before letting him go. We wondered if you'd like to join us for breakfast?

Harry nodded. Then you can show me the house.

Nicole smiled at him. Deal. She was pleased to see he returned her smile.

Give me a few minutes. I'll come and find you in the kitchen.

Nicole nodded; returning to their room, Aiden was waiting for her.

Is he okay?

Yes. She kissed his cheek. He's joining us for breakfast, so he must be.

Should we make a start?

Nicole nodded. He said he'd catch up.

Aiden followed her through the house to the large shared kitchen and they began, recalling Harry's tea preference - splash of milk and one sugar - and ensuring the toast was golden brown.

There's something about the smell of toast in the morning that makes my mouth water. Harry sniffed the air hungrily, paused in the doorway.

You can have scrambled eggs with it if you want? Nicole offered. She saw him hesitate. I'm having some.

Well... if you're making some anyway, thank you. He smiled at her, sitting at the table as bidden, as Aiden poured his tea.

Sure. Nicole returned his smile. Won't be long.

Justin and Lynn arrived together that moment, exchanging greetings with the trio.

They didn't give you breakfast in bed. Lynn jokingly shook her head.

I didn't pay for breakfast in bed. Harry joked. He saw them both smile.

How did you sleep? Justin enquired.

Harry shrugged. Fitfully. As expected. He thanked Nicole as the plate was put in front of him.

That smells great. Justin commented.

You know where everything is. She shrugged, giving him a teasing stare. Justin looked wounded, and she laughed. Have mine, I'll do more. She put the plate in front of him. How about you, Lynn?

Lynn shook her head. No thanks, Nic. Tea and toast is fine. She clicked the kettle on again, checking nobody wanted a refill.

Deciding after breakfast what their plans for the morning were, the couples went their separate ways, with Justin and Lynn going into town, asking Harry if there was anything he wanted. As Lynn expected, he shook his head but thanked her for asking.

Harry was most impressed with the house, and Nicole's tennis court. He accepted the offer to stay as long as he wanted, requesting time alone with Aiden. Justin and Lynn excused themselves.

Nicole smiled at them both. I’ll do some work. She kissed Aiden's cheek. Call me if you want me.

Aiden nodded, wondering what was coming...

Chapter 3

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Are you sure you don't want me to do that? Harry asked her, seeing Lynn ascend the ladder.

I'm fine. I've done it many times. She was intent on trimming the large apple tree, and Harry was intent on persuading her not to.

He couldn't believe Justin was nowhere to be seen. He let her get on with it all. What if something happened?

I'm ready. Her voice cut through Harry's thoughts; stooping, while keeping one hand on the ladder, he reached for the tree lopper to pass up to her.

Twigs showered his hair, dried leaves crept down his neck, but he kept hold of the ladder as she chopped. When she announced she was coming down, he breathed a sigh of relief when she had both feet firmly on the ground. Handing him the lopper and pointing, he realised she was only moving further over. As she mounted the ladder again with a determined look in her eye, he could do nothing but send up a silent prayer. Almost unable to watch as she overstretched and lost her balance, he was at her side in a flash.

Lynn!

The fall had knocked the wind out of her. She gasped for breath.

Easy, easy. It's alright. Harry reassured her. It'll take a minute to get your breath back.

Shaking as she sat up, Harry moved to support her.

Lynn! Justin's panicked shout made them both look up as he hurried to them. Why the hell did you reach out so far? Why didn't you... He hadn’t finished the sentence before she broke down. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to shout. You gave me such a fright. He gently put his arms around her.

Lynn sobbed against him, every sob increasing the torment from her arm - the one she’d put out automatically as she fell.

What hurts? Harry asked her softly. You might have really done some damage.

My arm, she sniffed.

Oh Lynn, you poor thing. Justin loosened his grip, worried he was hurting her.

Can you move it? Harry questioned her.

She shook her head. I feel sick.

Holding her gently as she began sobbing again, Justin groaned. We need to get you checked out.

She nodded against him after a while.

Can you walk? Harry wondered if she could get to the car unaided, unsure of the answer. Nothing else hurts?

She shook her head. I think I'll be okay.

We'll help you up. Justin nodded to Harry.

Despite them being extremely gentle, moving still caused her pain. Lynn could've kicked herself for being so stupid. Still shaking as she walked inside with them, she sat down as Justin went for his keys. Before he returned, Aiden and Nicole returned home from their walk. Both of them fussed over her when Harry relayed what had happened.

She was deathly white when Justin came back several minutes later, a sheen of sweat on her forehead.

Go with them, please, Harry. Nicole pleaded. She saw Justin was about to argue. We'll be fine, Jay. Keep us posted.

Harry hesitated.

You can stay with her while Jay parks. Nicole added.

That's a good idea. Aiden agreed. He looked up at Justin. She's in shock, Jay.

He nodded, squatting beside her.

I don't feel well, Lynn whispered.

It's okay, Lynn. Justin spoke softly, putting his arms around her again. You'll be alright. I'll look after you.

Concern was written all over Nicole's face. She'd not seen Lynn with so much as a headache, never mind this.

She'll be alright. Aiden told her, putting his arm around Nicole's shoulders, knowing how she felt.

Lynn was the coper in the family, whatever happened she held it all together; having something happen to her was unthinkable.

Slightly better after a few minutes, Lynn allowed them to walk her out to the car. Harry promised to call and update them before they all disappeared.

Six weeks. Lynn groaned.

Then physio. Justin reminded her. It'll be awhile before you get your strength back. He gave her a sympathetic look. That'll teach you to be more careful. He scolded, but softly. Drawing her into his arms, he held her reassuringly but not too tightly in fear of hurting her. I'm so glad you're okay.

Hardly. Lynn scoffed, wincing as her bruised back protested. I know how Nic felt when she broke her arm before their wedding. She shuddered.

I'll look after you. He spoke gently, kissing her head. You look after us so well, now it's your turn.

Lynn shook her head. I hate being a burden.

You're not a burden. Justin really scolded her this time. Don't think like that.

I can't help it. She whispered. I hate feeling useless and sorry for myself.

Aww Lynn, you poor thing. You'll be alright. Justin cuddled into her again. I'll be here to help you, whatever you need, no matter what it is. I won't think you're a burden. Okay?

Slowly, Lynn nodded. Thank you, Jay. She sniffed.

You had a helluva fright. He kissed her again. We should have an early night. You need to rest after that shock.

She nodded again, growing tearful again.

Let me look after you.

Okay. Lynn whispered, knowing she had no choice but to give in.

––––––––

In the very long, drawn out ten weeks between breaking her arm and regaining some strength, Lynn had adapted well to only using one hand, relieved nothing untoward had happened within their family circle while she was out of action.

She had still journeyed with them to Aiden's various appointments, pleased as they all were with the verdict that he was responding well to the medication.

Chapter 4

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Nic, Lynn frowned, when did I become your sports agent?

My what? Nicole laughed.

I've received several invites for you to play at events, and with different partners.

Nicole's eyebrows raised. Where? There was a trace of amusement in her voice.

Copenhagen, Athens, Rome, Madrid and Lisbon. Lynn listed. I immediately turned down Rome. She added, knowing Italy was off limits.

Nicole's mouth gaped.

You need to speak to Charlotte about this. Lynn began.

I will. Nicole cut her off.  And Aiden.

It was Lynn’s turn to raise her eyebrows. And Mike. Some of the invites are for mixed doubles. Nicole gasped. You’re becoming internationally sporty, like your husband and brother-in-law. Lynn smiled.

And my step son. Nicole reminded her, thinking of Harry.

Yes. Lynn paused. If this continues, I'll fight to negotiate a new contract. She teased.

Nicole just laughed.

Celine is interested in taking you to Paris to sign your new trilogy, to coincide with the French Open.

Nicole nodded, seeing Lynn wasn’t finished talking.

She's talking about the Australian Open and the US Open as well. Lynn hesitated.

Nicole let her breath out rapidly. While this wasn't a problem for her personally, it might cause Aiden issues. It was a conversation they needed to have, and soon. Lynn agreed now was probably a good time to talk about it, not surprised when Nicole immediately left.

Going to find him, he was sitting in his chair, his gaze far away on the view or perhaps beyond.

Aiden? She spoke softly, trying not to scare him back to the present.

He looked at her, smiling. Where did you come from? He teased. How long have you been watching me?

Not long. Nicole frowned. Why?

I'm such a worry to you. He took her hand, raising it to his lips and kissing the back of it before holding it properly. My beautiful, successful Nicky.

She smiled, moving closer; inwardly melting when he swept her into his lap.

What's on your mind? He said in her ear, securing his arms around her.

You. She said truthfully, feeling him flinch. Celine wants me to follow the tennis circuit with my books, but I'm worried it'll be too much for you.

Where does she want to take you?

America, Australia and Paris.

What else? Aiden asked patiently. That's not everything.

I've had invites around the world to play tennis.

Not with Charlotte? He latched onto her hesitation.

Nicole shook her head. With Charlotte and Mike, separately. I don't want to go too far away, I don't want anything to happen to you. She held her breath as Aiden sighed resignedly. I can't leave you to fly off all over the place. I'd rather turn them all down.

Oh Nicky. She felt him nuzzle into her neck. I don't want to hold you back.

Nicole smiled. I'm happy to go to Paris.

Where else in Europe is demanding your attendance? He nodded as she repeated the list, leaving out Rome. That's okay, that's doable.

As long as you're okay.

Aiden sighed. We'll never be able to tell.

Nicole nodded. I know, honey. It doesn't matter.

It does. Aiden sighed again. I never wanted to burden you. He shook his head. Instead, I burden all of you.

It was Nicole's turn to sigh. I'll agree to sign in Paris. And play in Lisbon. We can see what happens from there. She felt him nod. Besides, Charlotte might be up to playing. I have to make our partnership my priority.

Aiden nodded again. That's only fair. He agreed.

––––––––

At Aiden and Nicole's favourite coffee shop, Harry looked around as he stirred his drink. The seaside town was peaceful but not boringly so. He could live in their seafront apartment and see how life went.

Commuting in and out of London was a breeze from here - he didn't even have to drive, making visiting easy. Even his appointments in the City were a walk in the park to arrange. The idea his Dad had come up with - to consult with all the top law firms in London so Ava wouldn't have much choice - was a sneaky one, but one he had immediately accepted. He’d have to fight fire with fire if he wasn't going to be walked all over.

Chapter 5

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Nicole jumped at the sound of Aiden behind her, having been in her own world while plotting the end of her new novel. Her heart hammered