Legacy of Nicky Spade: Book 2: It's in the Genes

By Janice Williams

Legacy of Nicky Spade, It's in the Genes, is the second book in the trilogy, Chronicles of Nicky Spade. It takes the reader on a roller coaster of emotions, dealing with loss and tragedy to an exhilarating climax. You will be drawn into the lives of those left behind and their secrets. It's in the Genes gives an in-depth awareness of what life i

• Language: English
• Publisher: Primix Publishing
• Release date: Apr 1, 2022
• ISBN: 9781957676111

Janice Williams

Janice Williams resides in Northern California with her adorable Yorkie, Fritz. Having been the wife of a military spouse, Janice believes her travels have contributed to her love of writing and brought unique characters and locations to life in her books. Her best days are spent writing or reading. Janice firmly believes that reading can change a person's perspective on life and is the greatest journey one can take without leaving home.

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© 2022 Janice Williams. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by Primix Publishing 04/01/2022

ISBN: 978-1-957676-10-4(sc)

ISBN: 978-1-957676-11-1(e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2022905214

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Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

Prologue

Déjà vu

Home Alone

Back to the future

Keeping Secrets

Night of Remembrance

Far From Home

Surf’s Up

Home Alone Two

A storm is brewing

Bangkok Walking in his father’s footsteps

Cabana Eighteen The Question

Love is in the air

Shock and Awe

Changing of the Guard

Taking Care of Business

Wedding Bells

The decision

Epilogue

Prologue

How do you say goodbye to a rock icon? Someone who epitomized the world of rock and roll. Someone whose influence would be felt for generations. Someone who had inspired others to follow his path to the pinnacle of fame and fortune. Someone who most importantly had left behind his DNA pulsing through the veins of his only son, Cameron. Today, November 17 th, 1987, the world would lay to rest a rock god, Nicky Spade.

As the hearse entered the long narrow drive into Memorial Gardens in Middleton, Michigan, a fine mist of rain began falling. Somehow it seemed surreal yet appropriate. The world was reeling with overwhelming feelings of grief and sadness. A native son was finally home and being laid to rest. News anchors and fans would be held at bay outside the massive wrought iron gates. Today there would be no televised coverage. Bruce insisted the funeral be private, to allow only the immediate family and members of Black Tie Affair to say their goodbyes.

Slowly the convoy of cars came to a stop. It would only be a short walk toward the immense array of flowers surrounding the open grave. Emerging from the limo, Cameron now became Jenna’s strength. As her legs buckled from beneath her petite frame, Cameron held tightly to her arm. Opening a large black umbrella, he covered her from the rain.

Following behind the pallbearers that carried the love of her life, Jenna’s mind became flooded with memories of her short time with Nicky. It would be all that remained except Cameron. Flashes of their night at the cabin on the lake brought tears to her eyes. Fate had dealt her some hard blows. However, she felt blessed to have their son standing beside her. Cameron embodied Nicky. He carried within him the genes of a rock star. She vowed to herself that he would not make the same mistakes.

Sitting next to the open grave, it seemed almost unbelievable that Nicky had been taken from her once again. It had only been six years since the night Nicky had walked back into her life. A short time to try and make up for all those lost years. Nicky’s health had been spiraling out of control, but he had managed to hang on just long enough to witness the torch passed to his only son.

It was evident that Cameron was on the same path to fame. His childhood dreams were rock solid under the loving guidance of Bruce. However, there would be one difference.

As Jenna wiped tears from her eyes, she promised herself that Cameron would not be taken from her as Nicky. She wouldn’t watch Cameron’s career catapult him into a world of hard drugs and alcohol. It had cost her too much.

Chapter One

Déjà vu

Following the graveside service, the convoy of limos exited through the large wrought iron gates of Memorial Gardens. As was typical of Bruce, they were now on their way to the best restaurant in town. It just so happened to be Rosettas. It was the place where many years previous, Bruce had met with Nicky’s parents to go over the numerous legal documents necessary to take their young son out of Middleton. So it seemed only fitting to Bruce that everyone celebrate Nicky’s life and success in the music industry where it had begun.

Walking in, Bruce escorted Jenna to her seat. Looking around, she seemed comforted to know that neither Mr. nor Mrs. Spade would be present today. Nicky’s parents had been tragically killed in a car accident almost a year ago. The unexpected news of their passing had dramatically affected him. For the first time in his life, he had felt guilty for pursuing his dreams. Dreams which had taken him far away from his home town and his parents. The impact of losing his parents had thrown him deeper into depression and addiction. The demons of depression, alcohol, and drugs had finally claimed their victim. Even though Jenna loved him more than what seemed humanely possible, it wasn’t enough to keep him alive. Nicky had finally lost his battle to addiction. Looking over at Cameron, she smiled. Jenna knew that whatever it took or whatever she might have to do, it would be the one aspect of Nicky’s career that she would not see passed from father to son.

After everyone was seated, Bruce offered the first toast to his beloved friend. His voice began to crack, and tears flooded his eyes as he lifted his trembling glass.

Nicky, I loved you like a son. I felt like a proud father managing your career. When I first discovered you here in Middleton, my world was never the same. As lead vocalist, you took Black Tie Affair to staggering heights. Your fans adored you. You epitomized the words rock icon. Unfortunately, black Tie Affair and the world have lost a legend. You’ve been taken from us all too soon. Rest in peace. You will be sorely missed by those of us sitting here today. Here’s to you, my son.

Jerry stood to give Bruce a much-needed hug. Then, looking over at Jenna and Cameron, seated next to Annie, Joey and Tony, he lifted his glass.

"Here’s to Nicky. I always knew he was destined for greatness. Thank God I got to share in his long career, but more than that, he was family. Nicky, I love you. Thank you for all the unforgettable moments we shared."

Glancing over at his mom, Joyce, he noticed she was wiping tears from her eyes. Muffled sounds of crying inundated the room as piping hot plates of lasagna were brought out. Jenna was desperately trying to hold her emotions inside for Cameron. She needed to be strong. There would be time for tears, plenty of them, but this wasn’t the place. There would be many sleepless nights in her future, spent with her head laying softly on a pillow dampened from a myriad of tears. Jenna knew there would never be a replacement for Nicky. However, she found comfort knowing that just as the morning she had woke early at the cabin to watch him breathe, his heart had always belonged to her.

It was time for the boys of Black Tie Affair to stand and offer one last toast to their friend. As David stood, he asked that Jeff stand beside him.

Most of you know that our band, Black Tie Affair, lost two of our band members, Randy and Alex, many years ago in a horrific tragedy. If they were alive today, they would stand here with Jeff and me to recount the many memorable times we all shared with Nicky. Nicky first went onstage with us at a concert in Dublin, David smiled, glancing at Bruce. David continued. Most of you probably don’t know the reason I left the band during that time. But let’s just say Bruce made the right decision and leave it at that. Nicky came on stage that night as my replacement, and the fans fell in love with him. After losing Randy and Alex, Bruce again made the right decision to make a long story short. He brought Nicky upfront as the lead singer of our band and invited me back on board as well. Once again, the fans fell madly in love with Nicky. Who wouldn’t, he winked, staring at Jenna. And the rest is history, as they say. Here’s to you, my friend. I’ll always miss you.

With trembling hands, Jeff wiped his eyes.

Nicky, I’m sure going to miss our long talks. So here’s to you, man.

The whole room was a mixture of sadness and an unexplained peace. Those sitting here had been affected and influenced in some way by the life of Nicky Spade. After Jeff’s toast, Todd walked over to hug Jenna and offer his condolences.

Jenna, I’m so sorry. He loved you. He always loved you, he softly whispered in her ear.

Taking tissue from her purse, she looked up as she wiped the tears from her eyes.

I know, she answered, trying to smile. Thanks, Todd.

Afterward, he walked over to where Mike, John, and Pete were seated at the end of the long table, Guys, please stand with me to offer our toast.

Well, I guess it’s time for the boys and me to stand and offer a toast to our friend, Todd announced, lifting his glass of Champagne.

There was something about that kid, Todd smiled. I’ll never forget that night in London walking out of the elevator and meeting Nicky for the first time. Bruce and Nicky had just flown in from the states. What made such an impression on the boys and me was that this kid had just entered a new country, a new time zone, a whole new world sort of speaking and still managed to go pub hopping in London with us later that night. We introduced him to the finest beer and ale London had to offer, Todd continued. And you know what, he managed to hang with us even though I’m sure he was sleep-deprived. The boys and I liked him from the very start. He worked hard as a roadie, never failing to complete any task he was asked to do. If ever a kid deserved to make it, it was Nicky. The boys and I will always feel proud that we knew and loved him as a friend before the world ever knew his name. Here’s to you, my friend.

Guess I can speak for everyone standing here, Mike smiled, desperately trying to keep his composure.

Nicky, we are definitely going to miss you. I’ll never forget you. So here’s to you.

Cameron, if you ever need a couple of old roadies, Bruce knows where to find us. We’re all so proud of you. We know Nicky will be watching your career and smiling from above, Pete added.

One by one, people walked over to Jenna and Cameron, offering their condolences. Jenna knew that Nicky had many friends here this evening. She knew her heartache for him was shared by those who had come to pay their last respects.

Reaching over to take Jenna’s arm, Bruce whispered in her ear.

Sweetheart, are you ready to go back to the hotel? The car is out front if you and Cameron would like to leave now?

Yes, Bruce, that is so nice of you, Jenna tried to smile. I’ll ask Cameron to come with us.

She needed to make her escape. She needed the solitude of her hotel room. A quiet place where she could just be alone with her thoughts. At times like this, the kind words of those around her would never be enough. Nothing could ever fill the void of living without him. Oh, how she ached for just one more hour, one more day with him. Just another moment to be held in his arms, to smell his cologne, to see his silly smile. She was silently dying inside. She only hoped those around her couldn’t see how bad she needed and missed him. Why had fate brought him back into her life, only to rip him away after such a short time? For a brief second, she wished she had somehow died with him. However, seeing Cameron walking toward her, she knew why. She had her answer. It was Cameron.

Mom, please have Bruce take you back to the hotel. I’m going to stay for just a while longer. I’ve got some things I want to discuss with David. Would you mind? Cameron mentioned.

Okay, stay and talk with David. I’ll be at the hotel.

After giving her a quick kiss on her moist cheeks, Cameron walked over toward the end of the room, where he saw David talking with Todd and the boys.

Entering the limo, Bruce stepped in behind Jenna.

So Cameron decided not to ride back to the hotel with us? Bruce inquired.

No. I think he wanted to remain behind with the boys for a while, she answered, wiping her eyes.

Well, I hope he remembers that we’ll be leaving for Vancouver early tomorrow morning?

Oh, I’m sure there won’t be any problems, Jenna insisted, resting her head against the seat.

Seeing her so distraught, Bruce reached over to take her hand.

Jenna, things are going to be all right. I promised your mom before she passed that I would always make sure you were okay. When I came back onboard to manage Cameron’s career, I promised not only her but also Nicky that I would always be there for you both. I can’t tell you the worries I had for him. I watched him slowly deteriorate, even before you came back into his life. Jenna, Nicky loved you. I honestly believe the years he spent without you, along with his eventual drug use, caused his untimely death. I will tell you for sure that Cameron will never be on that same path. Sometimes, I felt like I had abandoned Nicky. When things began spinning out of control with his drug use, I couldn’t stand by and watch his demise, so I chose to leave.

Oh Bruce, it’s not your fault for leaving. Nicky was a grown man. He knew what he was doing. No one could have saved him, not even me, Jenna whispered, taking a Kleenex from her purse to wipe her eyes.

It wasn’t long before the limo entered the drive of the Carlton Hotel. Bruce saw Jenna to her room. Then he headed immediately down to the lounge. He needed a stiff drink. The thoughts of how Nicky had spiraled downward so quickly after reuniting with Jenna made him no longer wish to remain sober. He was now managing the fast-rising career of Cameron. Again, he promised himself that Cameron would never fall prey to drugs as his father did. Bruce knew all too well the trappings that can sometimes come with being a rock icon and the high price that Nicky had paid.

Finally, alone in her room, Jenna threw herself onto the huge bed. Not even bothering to remove her clothes, she felt hopelessly lost.

Nicky, how could you leave me? How could you? I can’t do this. I just can’t.

She cried rivers of tears for what seemed like an eternity until she fell asleep from pure exhaustion.

Not waking until the following day, it seemed somehow miraculous that she had even managed to drift off. Maybe somehow, someone was watching over her. Walking over to the television, she turned it on without thought. Catching the early morning news, it was detailed coverage concerning Nicky’s untimely death. It caught her by surprise. Quickly changing the news channel, she didn’t want to hear details about Nicky’s remarkable career. Jenna didn’t care that the world had lost Nicky Spade. She had lost her husband, the one whom her whole world revolved around. How was she ever going to be able to live without him?

Hearing a knock at the door, she walked over to answer it.

Good morning, Mom, Cameron said, hugging her. Mom, you look as if you slept in your clothes last night, he mentioned giving her a quizzical glance.

Oh, I guess you would be right, Jenna replied, looking down at her wrinkled Versace original. Suppose, I must have been pretty tired. I can’t remember the last time I slept in my clothes.

Mom, get changed. We’re supposed to meet Bruce downstairs in the lobby for breakfast before leaving. I think Aunt Joyce, Annie, Joey, and Tony will be joining us before we leave for Vancouver, Cameron insisted. Hurriedly, opening the drapes, the room was immersed in the warm morning sunlight.

That will be nice. I wanted to see them before we left. I don’t know when I will be back, and Vancouver is a long way from Middleton, Jenna replied as she shuffled through a rack of clothes. Finally finding the perfect outfit for the morning, she disappeared into the bathroom to change.

Okay, guess I’m ready. Have you called for someone to take our suitcases downstairs?

Yes, it’s all arranged. Mom, you look so pretty. Dad would be so proud of you.

Thanks, Sweetheart. Her only thoughts were of leaving Nicky behind. She had to find the strength today to start life without him. There had never been thoughts of laying him to rest anywhere but Middleton. Now with the funeral behind them, life continued.

Walking into the downstairs lobby, it wasn’t long before Annie saw her and came running over.

Jenna, how are you holding up? You left Rosettas before Aunt Joyce, or I could talk to you last night, Annie mentioned giving her a huge hug.

I know. I’m sorry. Everything was just beginning to be too much for me. After the toasts were given, it’s like reality set in, and I just wasn’t able to deal with my emotions, much less speak to anyone.

Oh, I know. It’s okay. Aunt Joyce figured you needed to be alone.

Well, speaking of your Aunt Joyce, she should be here any minute, Bruce stated as he walked up. Why don’t we all go in and find a place to sit. I’m starved, and the smell of bacon is calling my name," Bruce grinned, escorting them in the direction of the quaint coffee shop.

It wasn’t long before Joyce arrived. It was evident she had been crying.

Aunt Joyce, is everything alright? Annie asked, offering her a tissue.

Oh yes, dear, it was hard saying goodbye to Jerry this morning. He said to offer his apologies. It seems something came up at the last minute. By the way, Bruce, Jerry said he would meet up with you later at the airport. It’s so difficult to see him leave again. He reminds me so much of Nicky. Those two boys were more like brothers than cousins. First, it was so hard losing Joan and now Nicky.

The next hour was spent as only a family could, eating and trying to enjoy themselves under challenging circumstances. It would be the last time Jenna and Cameron would spend any time in Middleton.

Well, folks, it’s getting late. These two kids and I have a flight to catch, Bruce smiled, giving Jenna a wink. I don’t mean to end our breakfast so soon, but Mac, our new pilot, doesn’t like us showing up late at the airport," Bruce interrupted, standing to help Jenna with her coat. It was early spring, but it can still be quite cold in Michigan in April.

Joyce and Annie were now wiping tears from their eyes as they walked around the table to hug Cameron and then Jenna.

Well, guess we probably won’t be seeing either of you for a while. Sure going to miss you both, Joyce said, hugging Cameron so tight he thought he would pass out.

Aunt Joyce, you know you’re always welcome to come to Vancouver. Heck, just let me know in advance, and Bruce will put you in front row seats of any concert. Tony and Annie, you know that goes for you too, Cameron replied, finally free to take a deep breath.

Oh, thanks, Sweetheart. I can’t honestly say that rock concerts are my forte, but I’ll keep that in mind. You know I always supported your Dad and Jerry when they were younger. I’m so proud of you. Bruce, you take good care of our boy, she smiled.

Have a safe flight, Tony added.

As the limo drove out of the hotel entrance, Jenna glanced at Bruce. Do you think we would have time to take a short detour? Could we possibly drive out to Memorial Gardens? Bruce, I have to visit Nicky’s grave before I leave Middleton. There are things I need to say. Just give me a few moments. I promise it won’t take long, Jenna asked with tears in her eyes.

Jenna, do you think that’s best? Sweetheart, I know you miss him terribly. But it pains me to see you like this, Bruce sympathetically stated as he reached over to take her hand.

Yes. Bruce, I need closure before I leave Middleton, Jenna replied, reaching for another tissue to wipe her eyes.

Mom, I think Bruce is right. What more can be said? Why torture yourself? Cameron begged, appearing bewildered.

Oh, Sweetheart, I know. I don’t expect you to understand why I need to do this. It won’t take long. I know we have to be in Vancouver before 5:00 p.m. You have your whole career ahead of you. I need a few minutes alone to say goodbye to your dad.

As the limo entered the long narrow drive into Memorial Gardens, Cameron decided to walk out to the gravesite with his mom.

Mom, I will go with you, Cameron whispered, reaching for her hand as he stared deep into her eyes.

Thanks, Cameron, but I need to go alone. I’m fine, don’t worry. Just wait in the car with Bruce.

The limo gradually came to a stop as the flower-covered grave came into view. Exiting the car, Jenna grabbed her scarf to cover her. Then, slowly she walked through the damp grass over to Nicky’s grave and knelt.

Oh Babe, there are so many things to say. Once before, I poured my heart out to you in a letter. Now I find myself again needing to talk with you. Nicky, I loved you the day I first met you in class, when I dropped my pencil. I’ve always loved you. It was so hard letting you go after our night at the cabin. I came so close to telling you about Cameron. Babe, I loved you enough to let you go back then, and somehow today, I need to find the strength to let you go once again. Nicky, you were everything to me, my safe place, and my whole reason for being. Babe, I’ll always love you, always.

Leaning over the flower-covered earth which now held the love of her life, she picked up a single red rose. As tears streamed down her face, she lovingly kissed it. Then, taking a moment, she gently laid it back upon his grave. Slowly she stood, wiping her eyes. Walking back toward the limo, she finally said everything that needed to be said. She was ready to leave Middleton.

Cameron put his arms around her and held her tight as she stepped inside the car. There were no words spoken during the ride out to the airport, only silence. There was nothing more to say.

As the car pulled up alongside the private jet, Bruce noticed two people at the bottom of the steps. Taking another look, he wiped his eyes in unbelief. Kate was standing next to Jerry. Bruce was stunned for a brief moment, as he had remembered seeing a woman dressed in black at the funeral who resembled her. However, he quickly dismissed the thought from his mind that there was even the slightest chance of it being her. Bruce scratched his head, contemplating the dilemma which now faced him. This was undoubtedly the reason Jerry had failed to show up for breakfast. After advising her not to attend, Bruce was anxious to hear why she had decided against taking his advice. After all, he was sure neither Jenna nor Cameron knew anything of her or her past connection to Nicky.

Hey Bruce, guess we got here a little early, Jerry laughed.

Bruce didn’t like surprises or being put on the spot, so he took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding.

Jenna and Cameron, why don’t you both board the plane. I’ll be aboard in a few minutes. He had deliberately avoided the introductions.

I need to speak with Jerry, Bruce added.

Hey Jerry, Cameron smiled, walking up the steps.

Jenna went over to hug Jerry before she boarded.

We missed you at breakfast this morning. I hope everything is all right. See you in a few minutes, Jenna smiled, following Cameron onboard.

Hey, Son. Hello Kate. So what’s this all about? Bruce inquired with a stern look.

Well, Bruce, Kate saw the news coverage regarding Nicky, and she flew in from New York yesterday to attend the funeral.

Hey Bruce, nice to see you again, Kate answered, reaching out to shake his hand. You seem surprised to see me. I hope you’re not upset.

Well, oddly enough, I thought for a second I saw you yesterday at the graveside services. There were so many people. I wasn’t sure. Bruce rubbed his forehead contemplating his dilemma.

"Bruce, please