Vengeance in Paradise

By Will Espero

Vengeance In Paradise is the second novel written by Will Espero and is the sequel to his first novel, Passion In Paradise. The public and private lives of two prominent and influential families of Honolulu are on display in this captivating fictional story about politics, business, love, and relationships. After the passing of a young woma

• Language: English
• Publisher: Grovehouse Press Llc
• Release date: Feb 28, 2023
• ISBN: 9781957776699

Will Espero

First time novelist Will Espero is a retired state senator who served in the Hawaii legislature for 19 years. After his retirement in 2018, Espero was an executive producer of an art film, HI on Art. He and his partners also created 28 episodes of HI on Art for television focusing on Hawaii artists.

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VENGEANCE

IN

PARADISE

by

WILL ESPERO

VENGEANCE IN PARADISE

Copyright © 2022 William Espero.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the publisher, addressed Attention: Permissions Coordinator, at the address below.

ISBN: 978-1-957776-67-5 (Paperback)

ISBN: 978-1-957776-68-2 (Hardcover)

ISBN: 978-1-957776-69-9 (Ebook)

Any references to historical events, real people, or real places are used fictitiously. Names, characters, and places are products of the author’s imagination.

GroveHouse Press LLC

340 S Lemon Ave #3529

Walnut, CA 91789

United States

www. .grovehousepress.com

VENGEANCE IN PARADISE

The Sequel

This is a book of fiction. Characters, names, events, and situations are of the author’s imagination and creation. Any similarities to any person or event are purely coincidental.

In Memory of My Friend, Han

CHAPTER 1

SECOND THOUGHTS

The blazing sun cast a heated embrace across the baby blue sky as floating seabirds drifted on the high winds. A few bloated clouds touched the top of the Ko’olau mountain range as a cool breeze raced over the aina (land). Tourists and locals gathered at the beaches and shorelines to allow the fresh ocean waves to invigorate their bodies and souls. There’s nothing like being immersed and surrounded by the living waters of an island paradise. A sense of revitalization consumed the senses as the underwater world refreshed spirits and attitudes.

The wedding of Malia Wong and Justin Henderson was heralded as a major event in the political and business world of Hawaii. They were a handsome couple from two powerful and prominent families with island roots going back to the 1800s. Malia’s family founded and operated successful resorts and restaurants where visitors and locals enjoyed the best of Hawaii’s hospitality industry. She was an heiress to the Wong empire, a lasting legacy built by several generations of Wong visionaries and risk-takers. The influence and might the Wong family has earned and held in the hospitality industry were second to none. They were respected and revered by most, but in some circles, the Wong name was also synonymous with greed and extravagance.

Justin Henderson was a champion surfer whose father was the governor of Hawaii. His mother died in a freak car accident when she was hit by an elderly man who had a heart attack five weeks before the last general election. As a single man and only child, Justin felt an obligation to be with his father who lived in the stately governor’s mansion behind the historic home of Hawaii’s last monarch, Queen Lili’uokalani. Justin was well known as an avid environmentalist and a rabid cannabis advocate, and as a medical cannabis patient, he used the wonder plant following his back injury while surfing twenty-foot waves.

The combination of political power and government authority with corporate wealth and business acumen would create a family dynasty which could control the destiny and direction of the island state of Hawaii for many years. Many welcomed the upcoming marriage, but a few souls knew too much power in few hands could be disastrous and manipulative in a scenario with finite land, limited resources, and a fragile environment.

The announcement of their engagement was not unexpected even though Malia’s father, Jarod Wong, had been the Republican opponent of Governor Thomas Henderson in the last general election. Despite the rivalry of their paternal sides, Justin and Malia had much in common and were seen as the perfect couple who enjoyed the endless ocean, the inspiring outdoors, and community service.

*****

Unexpected dark clouds accumulated as a strong wind brushed the trees making them sway like a waving hand during a recent hike in the Honouliuli Forest Reserve. A chill filled the air when the sun disappeared. Single drops of water fell. Drop. Drop. Drop, striking heads and bodies. The small liquid bombs were everywhere. Single drops became multiple drops when suddenly a heavy downpour began and lasted for several minutes dumping buckets of rain on many unexpected souls.

Malia and Justin were almost stranded on the trail they climbed as the quick moving rainstorm drenched their clothing. They scurried to higher ground as the weather worsened, and the wind rushed through the trees and forest.

A low rumble could be heard, and instinctively, Justin knew what was coming and rushed to Malia. She was frozen for a moment as the rumble became louder.

Run, Malia! Justin yelled frantically as he reached for her hand. Let’s go!

A moment of panic turned into clear thinking as Justin grabbed Malia’s arm and pulled her with him. A flash flood developed and the two were lucky to be on the right side of the stream allowing them to safely exit dripping and soaking wet. The fast-moving water rushed downward near the trail and threatened to take anything unsecured or not rooted to the ground. The roar of Mother Nature was deafening. Afterward, one hiker had gone missing but was found alive and injured after being caught in the raging stream which had once been a dry path.

You saved us, Justin. What would I do without you?

Had I known there would be rain clouds up here, we shouldn’t of come out today.

I don’t want to sound corny, but you’re my hero. That’s why I love you so much.

We need to get outta here and get outta these wet clothes.

Get out of these wet clothes? I like that thought.

Me, too! Boy, I hope no one was hurt up here today.

As they headed to the car, they assisted a couple of elderly hikers who were soaked and wet. The hikers recognized Justin but not Malia.

Aren’t you the governor’s son?

Yes. I’m Justin, and this is Malia.

Thank you for your help. We voted for your dad. Thank God the other guy didn’t win.

Thank you. I’ll let him know. He’ll be appreciative.

At the parking lot, they said their good-byes and wished each other well.

Inside Justin’s car, Malia stated, I’m so happy you’re in my life. Nothing will ever come between us.

*****

A late engagement luncheon for 200 guests was planned for July 4th at the Pacifica Waikikian Resort and Spa, the flagship of the Wong hotel and restaurant empire. The five-star resort with a luxuriously appealing Asian chic and Hawaiiana décor was one of the grandest and finest hotels in Waikiki. Jessica Wong, Malia’s older sister and executive vice-president of the company, oversaw the lunch event. Jessica adored her younger sister, and the two were as close as sisters could be.

With Jessica’s experience and background, the expectations were high for an event with delicious food, fabulous entertainment, and unique decorations. Their iconic ice sculptures would be on display showcasing sea turtles and a monk seal. They looked like magical crystal marine animals flying through the air. A fashion show with local designers and their summer wear was also included in the festivities.

Initially, a smaller intimate dinner with about 50 people had been planned. However, Helen Wong, Malia’s Irish American mother, wanted to invite more friends and family members from the large Wong clan. The guest list grew, and a bigger lunch event was approved by Justin and Malia. Since Helen was paying for the event, there was not much of an argument about how many people would attend.

Malia was the youngest of the family, and Helen wanted the best for her child. Helen was secretly happy Jarod had lost the general election as the fallout of his reckless affair had brought shame and humiliation to the family name. As Jarod faded in the background, Helen saw Malia’s wedding as an opportunity to showcase the success and achievements of the Wongs. The movers and shakers of Hawaii were watching the beginning of a new power structure and, possibly, a modern Hawaiian dominion with the merging of these two notable families.

Jessica and her friend, Melissa Seki, assisted with the multiple details of the engagement luncheon. Melissa was an event planner and operated her own consultant firm in Waikiki for five years. She was an active volunteer in the community dividing her time between the Hawaii Suicide Prevention Coalition and the Humane Animal Treatment House. In high school, Melissa and her sister were close friends with Justin, but this was a detail Melissa failed to share with Jessica.

At the age of 15, Melissa’s sister accidentally overdosed on oxycontin in her bedroom. Her death was controversial as some thought she overdosed while others believed she committed suicide. Justin believed Julie had accidentally overdosed. He and Julie Seki had been surfing the day she died, and she complained about a terrible headache for the past two days. Justin believed she took too many pills over the course of those days. There were rumors of sexual abuse by a family member, but an investigation found no evidence of that nature.

Melissa and Justin had been in the same circle of friends, but after Julie’s death, they drifted apart. He was surprised when he discovered Melissa was working with Jessica on the engagement luncheon. Justin figured it wasn’t necessary to enlighten Jessica or Malia of his past with Melissa.

A heavy decision weighed on Justin’s mind with the engagement luncheon just five weeks away as he, unfortunately, had second thoughts about the wedding. He wasn’t sleeping well and was becoming apprehensive and anxious around Malia. Justin loved Malia and truly enjoyed his time with her. He believed he could live the rest of his life with Malia although he felt he was being rushed to get married. The thought of asking Malia to postpone the wedding terrified Justin. What if she said no? What if she started crying? What if she said to go to Hell?

Justin hated the position he was in but needed to talk to Malia. It was now or never. Malia was delicate, and he knew his words must be chosen carefully.

*****

Justin and Tony Baroni, his friend of 6 years, celebrated Tony’s new singing gig at the Parkview Restaurant. He had worked in a Wong-owned restaurant but decided he needed a change of venue. They met for happy hour at the new eatery where Tony would be performing.

Are you ready for your new life dude? You’re getting married!

Don’t remind me. I’m freaking out.

Wha’chu talkin’ about Justin? You gettin’ cold feet?

Brah. I’m having second thoughts. I love Malia. No doubt. I’ve never been in love like this. But I’m wondering if we’re rushing things.

Rushing things? You’ve been engaged about a year. Does Malia know?

Oh no. She knows nothing. Don’t you say a word to anyone.

No worries. I know how to keep a secret. What’s your problem? Wha’chu afraid of?

I just don’t know if I’m ready. Having to answer to someone 24 hours a day. Like being connected by a lock or ball and chain. Know what I mean?

Not really.

I just don’t know if I’m ready to be married.

Did’ya meet someone else?

No, that’s not it.

Are you going to tell Malia? Talk to her?

I have to. I have no choice. I don’t know what to say yet. She’s gonna kill me.

Well, maybe not. You never know. What if she’s having second thoughts?

That would be nice, but I doubt it.

Ask to postpone it. Or maybe you’re just confused and nervous. You just have the jitters that’ll go away.

Justin enjoyed his single life. Being a champion surfer with his beach boy good looks made him popular with the ladies and the gay community. But his love and loyalty to Malia was strong despite his reluctance and indecision.

His work and efforts in the legal cannabis industry were also starting to pick up, and he wondered if his marriage would take away from his cannabis entrepreneurial goals and dreams. Justin had been laying the groundwork to develop a local Hawaii strain for global distribution when legalization and the world economy were in sync. It was coming soon. His plan would allow households to grow and participate in collectives to generate revenues and income for Hawaii. With the high cost of living driving many families to move to the mainland, Justin believed cannabis could resurrect Hawaii’s agricultural glory involving blue collar sweat and muscle. He was ready to throw himself into this new sustainable venture.

Even though he was in a committed relationship with Malia, people still swooned over Justin. With the beautiful Malia on his arm, they were Honolulu’s golden couple. With Justin now having second thoughts about giving up his current lifestyle, he had to speak with his fiancé immediately.

Justin knew it wasn’t going to be easy to discuss his change of heart about the upcoming wedding with Malia. Money had already been spent or deposited for many services and favors.

He had never been in love, and Malia was special being from the privileged and distinguished Wong clan. The Wongs had entered the hospitality business soon after statehood, and over the years, Pacifica Island Resorts and Spas had become the largest locally owned hotel chain in Hawaii. They operated eight hotels on four neighbor islands with the Pacifica Waikikian Resort as the flagship of the brand. Several restaurants and fast-food joints added to the expensive and expansive portfolio of the Wong empire.

Malia’s father, Jarod, was once an important and notable executive in the hotel industry. He was a fourth generation Chinese American who had a tragic fall from grace due to a disastrous personal decision. An affair exposed in the media ruined his name and reputation following his defeat in the last race for governor.

The unintended death of his mistress also haunted him. Jarod was planning a second run for governor against Thomas Henderson when the scandal broke. The publicity and aftermath destroyed his plans, resulted in Jarod’s resignation from his company, and elevated Larry Wong to president and CEO of the family business. Larry, Jarod’s first cousin, had been a key advisor and assistant to Governor Henderson, and with Jarod Wong’s downfall, the family selected Larry to replace Jarod. Helen Wong didn’t divorce Jarod for his poor judgment and indiscretions, but their marriage was seriously damaged, and the trust factor was down the drain and non-existent.

Justin wasn’t sure how to handle his current predicament, and the last thing he wanted to do was hurt Malia which was unavoidable. His feeling was to delay the wedding for at least one more year, and he knew he had to say something to Malia now.

Malia was on cloud nine with her pending marriage to Justin, and the thought of being Mrs. Henderson appealed to her as she appreciated his advocacy for the environment, love for the outdoors, and his desire to help the poor and needy. Before his mother died, Emily Henderson instilled a strong sense of charity, compassion, and community within Justin. He was Honolulu’s most eligible bachelor and being the son of the governor garnered him lots of attention. Malia knew many women were envious of her, and she was very fortunate and proud Justin was her man.

The thought of postponing his wedding was heavy on his mind, and Justin decided to talk to his dad about his concerns during breakfast one morning.

Dad, you know I love Malia, but I don’t want to get married yet.

What are you talking about, Justin? What do you mean? the governor was confused by the statement. Justin sounded so matter-of-factly.

I don’t know exactly what it is, but I’m feeling kinda rushed.

Have you spoken to Malia about it?

"No. I haven’t had the courage to. She’s gonna be hurt. And maybe mad and upset.

You think so? the governor inquired. You need to talk to her as soon as possible. The wedding is getting close.

I know, but what should I tell her?

Tell her how you feel. If you just want to postpone the wedding, that’s reasonable. Are you sure that’s it, or is there more to this?

Justin was silent for a few seconds. He looked at his dad. Then said, Yes, that’s it.

Are you sure?

Yeah, dad. I just want a little more time.

It’s a major commitment. A lifetime commitment. I get it, son.

Yes. But will Malia get it?

Communication is key; now and when you’re married. Don’t forget that. Your mom and I had a great rapport and could talk about anything. She was a wonderful woman. I miss her so much.

I miss her too, dad. I wish she was here.

She would tell you to speak from your heart. Don’t hold back with the woman you love.

Justin understood he needed to talk immediately with Malia about his change of heart. He believed if they were truly in love, a slight delay should not be a problem. He also knew, if it didn’t come out right, it could explode in his face.

CHAPTER 2

AN UNEXPECTED ENCOUNTER

The compressed bumpy trail was weathered and used by thousands of avid hikers each year. The hard dirt path was a beacon for those wanting to get in shape, experience nature, and escape city surroundings. Multiple shades of green smothered the area as songbirds could occasionally be heard, but not seen, in the distance. A cool canopy made the trek comfortable and pleasant.

Malia and Jessica arrived at the Pali Lookout and Trail for a Sunday morning adventure as the sun quietly baked the air, and a gentle trade wind touched the land. The air was crisp, clean, and pure. The mountains were rejuvenating and energizing. A few cars littered the parking lot as several young men lingered by the entrance of the trail. Malia and Jessica had gotten some publicity during the last gubernatorial race when their dad ran for governor as the Republican candidate, and the Wong sisters were recognizable. Malia’s modelling jobs also brought her attention from many residents, especially the men.

Hey. Howzit Malia, one of the young men said.

Both Jessica and Malia responded hello.

Would you like some company hiking today? one of the men asked.

That’s ok. We’re good, Jessica answered.

Are you sure? We’re harmless.

We’re fine, Malia politely stated.

Oh, come on. You two might need some company or protection in the mountains. We’re Facebook friends Malia. I saw your post you might be hiking today.

Oh, okay, Malia answered wondering who this guy was. Hopefully he wasn’t a stalker, she thought to herself.

Jessica was getting annoyed by the young men. She was also getting the heebie-jeebies from the Facebook guy. She answered, We’ll be safe and okay. We’ve hiked here before. We don’t need any guys protecting us. But thanks for asking.

You sure?

Yes, we’re sure, Jessica replied. She had dealt with pushy guys before and knew how to handle them. For safety, she carried an electric stun gun in her fanny pack as added back-up, and if she needed to use it, she certainly would.

A light drizzle fell as they began their adventure. Jessica found a broken slightly curved branch to use as a walking stick. She figured it could also be used as a weapon if needed. Malia felt a few weak raindrops and remembered her last hike with Justin.

I hope it doesn’t rain more.

"It shouldn’t. Looks like a light passing shower. You