Escape to You

By Rozann R. Taylor

As the lead singer of the famous pop band, Progression, Kevin Jamison's life is full of parties, wealth and paparazzi. It's also full of deadlines, demands, and pressure. He is eager to trade the artificially glamorous lifestyle that usually accompanies his profession for something better--lasting happiness. He's also desperate for a vacation.

Emma Hamilton is a grad student about to begin her master's studies. She is talented, witty, and clever and agrees to be Kevin's temporary housekeeper at his undisclosed Florida beach home.

As their new friendship turns into love, Kevin's manager insists that he remain single and unattached. Will their newfound love be strong enough to find a way through the obstacles?

Escape to You is a clean, contemporary romance and is appropriate for anyone who loves to read about love from age 10 to 110.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Covenant Books, Inc.
• Release date: Oct 13, 2023
• ISBN: 9798888516836

Book preview

Chapter 1

The Party

Kevin was not enjoying himself, not in the least. He normally enjoyed a party, but not tonight. He looked around as he sat at the bar in the famous Hollywood producer’s mansion. What was wrong with tonight?

Tonight, everything was off. The rooms were too dark, the music too loud. The strobe light, which was bursting in time with the music, was giving him a huge headache.

Worst of all were the women clad in small, tight-fitting dresses. They were gyrating to the beat on the parquet dance floor, flirting with the men standing around the perimeter or vying for attention from the men at the bar. But, tonight, they all seemed so fake, so artificial. There were currently four ladies surrounding him, but he’d had enough. He was ignoring them all.

He had to get out of here.

He carefully extracted himself from the women surrounding him, waved goodbye to his host, and headed to the front door. He ignored the moans from the women and his friends begging him to stay. The valet handed him his keys, opened the front door for him, and he was suddenly free. The party faded away as he strode toward his car in the moonlight.

There were perks to being who he was. His car was parked right outside the front door of the mansion in the circular driveway. He lowered himself into the soft leather, inserted the key, revved the engine, and was on his way. Now he could think and analyze what went wrong at the party.

He’d always enjoyed a glitzy, Hollywood party. So what was it about tonight? Was he getting old? Dull? Losing his edge? Should he be worried that his usual playboy, party animal side had vanished tonight?

No. He refused to even imagine it. He would never get old, slow down, nor become dull. Not in this lifetime. He was Kevin Jamison, lead singer/songwriter of the famous band Progression, pop star extraordinaire, Hollywood bad boy, People Magazine’s Hottest Man of the Year.

He dated models and drove very expensive, very fast sports cars. He had a gorgeous home in Los Angeles, a luxury apartment in Manhattan, and a home in Bayberry Island, Florida. He had a staff of security people, a management team, a publicity team, and many assistants. His assistants had assistants. He was a household name. He was not getting old, dull, losing his mind, or his edge.

He was just tired. Tired of all of it—the glitz, the glamour, the plastic, fake, Botox side of Hollywood life. He was tired of the concerts, the rehearsals, the recording sessions, the pressures of performing. He was just tired.

Then it dawned on him. He needed to escape.

He picked up his cell phone and dialed his favorite personal assistant, who also happened to be his mom, as he took a tight corner on the winding Los Angeles mountain road.

He was glad for the freedom of his favorite convertible, a perfectly restored, silver 1963 Corvette Stingray. He loved how it hugged the curves of the road. His headache was clearing up already thanks to the wind in his hair and the gentle hum of the motor.

He should have left the party sooner. He wasn’t losing his edge. He just needed a break.

Kevin! How was your day? His mother’s voice was a comfort. She was always happy, and her voice made him feel better instantly.

It was good, Mom. How was your day?

My day was great. Your dad and I sold a beautiful engagement ring to an endearing, eighty-one-year old man. He’s going to propose to his girlfriend tomorrow night. It’s the sweetest story. They were high school sweethearts who lost track of each other, married other people, raised families, buried their spouses, and recently found each other again. It was such a pleasure to talk to him, hear his story, and help him find the right ring for his sweetheart.

Wow. What a story. That’s priceless!

Yes, it is. Owning a jewelry store has its perks. Stories like this are one of them. Are you driving, son? Is that the hum of an engine I hear?

Yeah. I’m just driving home after a tedious party. Too much drama, too many women vying for my attention, and the music was too loud. Everything was just too much tonight. I’ve got a killer headache, he complained.

Mm-hmm, was his mother’s response. I know it’s rough having all the pretty ladies hanging all over you, son, she said with a chuckle as she rolled her eyes.

Mom, I’m serious. It was an awful night. I spent the last hour wishing I was anywhere other than that party. I’ve been trying to figure out why I couldn’t enjoy it. You know me, Mom. I usually love this stuff.

Yes, I know. Maybe you’re getting wiser in your old age, she chided, and seeing the side of Hollywood that isn’t so pretty? she questioned with hope in her voice.

No, Mom. That’s not it, and I am not suffering from old age. I’m only twenty-eight-years-old, Mom. I am not slowing down. I am not losing my edge.

"Okay, Kevin, whatever you say. I just wish you would slow down a little. You work too hard and party too hard. You can’t blame me for thinking of your happiness."

You are the best mom in the world, and I don’t blame you for wishing for my happiness. I am happy. I’m just tired. It was just a bad night.

Kevin continued, Mom, I’m calling to ask a really big favor of you. His voice was pleading now.

Sure, honey. How can I help? she offered.

Well, I know this is sudden, but I’m desperate. I’ve got to escape and soon. I can hang on for a couple more days but no longer than that. Did I mention I’m desperate? he pleaded as he shifted down to handle the steep curve of the road.

Yes, yes, you did. I understand. When you need to escape, you need to escape. I’ll put everything into motion, Kevin, first thing tomorrow morning.

Great. Now I can breathe again, he said, obvious relief in his voice. I’ll call Tony now and have him clear my schedule. Thanks, Mom.

No problem, son. You know I’m always here for you.

I know, Mom. I couldn’t do what I do without you. You’re the best personal assistant a man could have.

Aw, how sweet. Now get yourself home safely and relax. I’ll get everything arranged. There’s just one little problem that will be a challenge, but don’t you worry. I’ll handle it.

A problem? What’s that? he asked, concerned.

The housekeeper, Rosa, is not at the house. Her daughter’s having her first baby, so Rosa flew out yesterday to help her when the baby comes. She’s planning to stay for a month. I had no idea that you’d need her, but I can’t ask her to miss the birth of her first grandchild. Her daughter needs her right now, she stated.

Okay. Of course Rosa should be with her daughter, and I’m happy for her, but what am I supposed to do without a housekeeper?

Don’t worry, son. I’ll find a replacement. It won’t be easy, but I’m sure I can find someone that can fill in, someone that we can trust.

I’m sorry to drop this on you so suddenly, Mom. I hope it’s not too hard to find someone. Thank you in advance for all of your help with this. And, Mom, make sure whoever you find signs the contract and understands the privacy clause. It’s crucial.

I will, son. No worries. I’m on it.

Thanks, Mom. You’re the best.

I know. That’s why you love me so much.

Well, that and a million other reasons. What’s not to love? he flattered.

I’ll call you tomorrow as soon as it’s all arranged.

Thanks, Mom. I’d like to fly over as soon as I can get away. And don’t worry, Mom. I’ll be fine on my own for a couple of days while you find a replacement housekeeper. He chuckled. Hopefully Rosa left some canned food in the pantry and something in the freezer since I’m a moron in the kitchen.

You know that Rosa treats you like you’re her own son. I’m sure the kitchen is well stocked. It’s always ready for you. Now get home safely, Kevin. I’ll call you tomorrow. I love you.

Love you, too, Mom, and thanks.

You’re welcome. Good night, dear.

Night, Mom.

Kevin ended the call and set his phone down. He felt much better now. He could breathe again.

His thoughts turned to the house tucked behind security gates at the end of the private drive in beautiful Bayberry Island, Florida. His escape home. It was only a five-hour flight in his private jet, but it felt like it was a world away.

The house had been decorated like the vacation home that it was. It had a private entrance to the beach, and it was his own, personal refuge. He wasn’t able to use it often, but when he was, it was like magic. It was exactly what he needed.

He needed a couple of weeks to chill out, relax, think, and regroup, a couple of weeks when he wouldn’t have to worry about anything. No paparazzi hanging around, or worse, stalking him, hoping for a picture. No fans or women hanging around. No producers, no managers, none of it.

He couldn’t wait to have some quiet time to himself; time to run on the beach at sunset, time to sit and watch the surf roll in, time to take his sailboat out and cruise around in the quiet, gorgeous blue water; time to sit back and smell the ocean breezes. He needed time to sit at the piano and compose without the pressure of an audience, managers, or band members. Maybe he’d write another hit that would go platinum.

He picked up his phone again and called his manager. Tony would understand and clear his schedule. He’d done it before on short notice. Tony always came through for him.

Kevin could hardly wait to pull his Stingray into the garage and pack his bags. He would be fine. No need to worry about the party and his strange reaction there. He just needed to escape.

Chapter 2

A Little Matchmaking

Launa Jamison turned her cell phone off, wandered into her living room, and sat in her favorite chair. Her thoughts turned to her family and how she’d been very blessed in that department.

Her husband, Jay, was a wonderful, caring man. They had two children, Kevin and his older sister, Alaina. Alaina had married the man of her dreams, Landon, almost ten years ago. They had two children of their own: Mia, a six-year-old daughter; and Aidan, their four-year-old son. Launa loved being a grandmother. It was one of the greatest joys of her life.

Her thoughts turned back to the conversation she’d just finished with Kevin. She couldn’t help but notice that he’d called the party tedious. She knew how much pressure he was under. She had sensed lately that he was getting very tired and needed a break. His announcement hadn’t been a big surprise.

He didn’t refer to her as his favorite personal assistant for nothing. She was very much a part of his career. They had always had a close relationship. She made herself available to help him however she could, but she also knew how important it was to keep her distance and only jump in to help when it was his idea. She worked hard to make sure he felt her support but didn’t interfere in ways she shouldn’t. They were usually able to find a nice balance as they worked together.

Kevin had always been independent and driven, always working on a project, but she’d never dreamed that he’d grow up to be a famous musician. She worried about him, though. Fame might be exciting and glamorous, but there was a downside to it too. The pressure he was under on a daily basis was hard to live with. There was always someone wanting something from him.

He worked so hard on every aspect of his career. It’s a wonder he’d been able to go as long as he had without the need to escape. That was their code word for his need to take a vacation at the Florida home. It was the place he went to rest and regroup so he could get back to his high-pressured life.

Launa’s mind went back again to their conversation about the aborted party, and she wondered if Kevin was changing. She smiled when she recalled how she had teased him about getting old. He was far from old at twenty-eight, but she couldn’t help but wonder if he was feeling the need to settle down from his wild and crazy bachelor lifestyle. She’d have to watch for signs from Kevin to figure out that question. She wouldn’t be able to talk with him about it. He’d think the idea was ridiculous.

The next morning, after her daily walk through the neighborhood and a quick shower, she sat down at the kitchen table to work on finding a replacement housekeeper.

Her cell phone started to ring. She smiled because the ringtone was Kevin’s latest hit. She picked up the phone and glanced at the screen. It was always a happy occasion to hear from her best friend, Marcie Clarke. They’d been thrown together as roommates in their first semester of college, and they’d remained close friends ever since.

Marcie, how are you? Launa asked, excitement in her tone.

Launa, it’s so good to hear your voice. How’s everything?

Couldn’t be better. How are you getting along?

Fine, fine. What’s new with you?

Oh, I’m sitting here wondering how I’m going to help Kevin with a predicament we’ve run into.

Oh, that doesn’t sound so good. What’s the problem?

Well, you know how hard Kevin works and that when he has to get away from it all, he escapes to the house in Florida?

Yes, you’ve mentioned that to me before.

Well, he called me last night, and he needs a break. He’s going to fly over as soon as he can get away.

Good for him, Marcie said. So what’s the problem then? It sounds like a wonderful idea to me.

Well, that’s just it. Our housekeeper, Rosa, is not in residence at the moment. She flew out two days ago to be with her daughter when she delivers her first baby.

Oh, well, that is a problem then, Marcie agreed. And now you need to find someone to fill in.

Exactly, Launa mused. Rosa’s always been there when Kevin’s needed a break before. There’s also a problem with finding someone that will be totally discreet. We have to make sure we hire someone that can be trusted not to alert the media or Kevin’s refuge will become a three-ring circus. This is a situation that requires total discretion.

Hmm. I see your dilemma. After a few moments, Marcie said, Launa, I’m having an idea. What is the time frame that you’ll need someone to help out?

Well, Kevin’s flying over to the house as soon as possible, so we need someone almost immediately. I’m never sure how long his schedule will allow him to be there. In the past, it hasn’t been an issue since Rosa lives there year-round, so this is a new problem for us. I don’t mind telling you that I’m not sure how to handle this.

Launa, I have an idea of who can help you. Let me make a quick phone call, and I’ll get right back to you. Okay?

Of course. Thank you, Marcie. I’ll wait for your call. Launa disconnected the call and wondered what Marcie might have up her sleeve.

A half hour later, Launa’s phone was ringing again. Marcie had a very interesting idea of who might be able to help out as the temporary housekeeper. Very interesting indeed.

Chapter 3

Road Trip

The morning couldn’t be more perfect. The sun was warm on Emma’s face. The windows were rolled down in her metallic blue Volkswagen Beetle hatchback. Her sunglasses were cutting the glare, and she was singing along with the radio at the top of her lungs. Her car may be four years old, but it was dependable and had given her very few problems. Most of her earthly possessions were currently packed tighter than tight inside. She was on her way to a new adventure, and life was good.

Her cell phone rang, so she adjusted the radio’s volume and glanced at the screen to see who was calling. Hi, Mom.

Emma! How are you? Marcie asked.

I’m good. Just driving along. I’ve got the sun on my face, the wind in my hair, and I’m singing with the radio. What could be better? Today is a new adventure, and I’m enjoying it.

Oh, sweetheart, I’m so happy that you’re happy. Where are you and what’s your schedule today?

I left my apartment in Tucson this morning, and I’m headed to Kate’s parents’ house in Los Angeles. It will be so nice to spend some serious downtime with my best friend. Both Kate and I are so worn out from finals and wrapping up the semester. Graduation was incredible, but the stress of it all has left both of us absolutely exhausted. It was all I could do to pack up all my stuff, load my car, and clean my apartment yesterday.

I can imagine, Marcie commiserated.

I’m so grateful that my bachelor’s degree is behind me and that Kate and I can just chill for a week or so until I can get into my new apartment in North Carolina. Kate and I both deserve a rest, and we plan to enjoy it. Then it’s off to Chapel Hill to find a summer job so I can earn as much money as possible before starting the master’s program in the fall.

I’m so glad things are going well for you, sweetheart. Your attitude is a marvel, and Owen and I couldn’t be more proud of you. It was so great to be with you for graduation, Emma. Thanks for making time to be with us while we were there. We both enjoyed it so much.

It was great for me too, Mom. It was so nice to have both of you there. Thanks for making it happen. I know it was expensive to fly out to be with me, and I appreciate the sacrifice. Owen is the best stepdad a girl could ever wish for.

You are more than welcome, sweetheart. You know that Owen loves you like you are his own daughter. He was more than happy to make sure that we could be there with you.

Emma could hear the smile in her mother’s voice. What’s new with you? It’s been a couple of days since we talked, Emma said.

Oh, nothing new here, except for one little thing that’s come up this morning, something that might be interesting to you, Emma.

Oh really? And what would that be, Mom?

I called Launa Jamison this morning, just to catch up with her. We haven’t talked for a month or so. She has a little predicament that she’s working on, and it made me think of you.

Launa’s predicament made you think of me? Emma joked. Should I be insulted, Mom? My life is not that crazy that you associate me with a predicament, is it?

Of course not, Emma, Marcie laughed. I’m wondering if you are the answer to her predicament.

Okay, Mom. Now you’ve got my full attention. What is Launa’s problem?

Well, it’s actually her son Kevin’s problem.

Her son, Kevin, as in the famous musician Kevin Jamison?

That’s the one. I know that you’ve never met him, Emma, but even though he’s famous, he’s very down to earth. He’s always been very kind to me, and he is so good to his mother.

If you say so, Mom. Emma’s voice was thick with doubt. So what is Kevin’s problem then? It’s hard for me to imagine that he doesn’t have a staff just waiting to handle any problem that pops up.

Well, that’s where Launa comes in. She is one of Kevin’s personal assistants. In fact, he always refers to her as his favorite personal assistant. She helps with whatever Kevin needs. They have a very close relationship, and Launa knows just how to help without stepping on his toes.

Yeah, yeah. How sweet, Emma deadpanned and rolled her eyes.

Emma, he really is a sweet boy.

Mom, he’s not a boy. He’s a man. A very famous man who has the world right at his feet at the moment. He’s rich, famous, a chick magnet, yadda, yadda, yadda, she quipped. What could possibly be a problem when you are Kevin Jamison?

That’s the thing, honey. Kevin is totally burned out. He called his mother to help arrange a vacation from his fast-paced, stressful, demanding life, and all that goes with it. He does this from time to time when he gets really burned out. He uses the break to recharge his batteries, so to speak.

Okay, Mom. You can stop defending him to me, and I apologize for being so hard on him. Never judge another person until you have walked in their shoes. That’s what you taught me when I was young, right? I’m sure there are times when even he needs a break. I know exactly how he feels.

Yes, I know that you’re burned out too, dear, but I have an idea that just might help you, Launa, and Kevin all at the same time.

Okay, Mom. The suspense is killing me. What could I possibly do to help out Kevin Jamison, his mother, and myself all at the same time?

Chapter 4

The Offer

Emma slowed down as she turned into the beautiful neighborhood. The homes were gorgeous. The lawns were lush, green carpets leading up to perfectly landscaped garden beds with accents of small trees and perfectly sculpted bushes. There were splashes of color everywhere thanks to a variety of brightly colored flowers. There was also a lot of space between the homes, which was rare among Los Angeles neighborhoods. It was all so lovely.

She slowed her car as her GPS alerted her to the fact that she was nearing her destination. She looked through her window for the correct address and for the Jamison name on the plaque by the front door. She spotted it right where it was supposed to be on the beautiful two-story colonial. She admired the classic look of the clean, white wooden panels and the black shutters. She especially loved the deep red front door. Elegance with a splash of something fun, bright, and unexpected. That suited her perfectly. She and Mrs. Jamison must have that in common.

Emma parked her car, grabbed her phone, and slid it into her bag as she unfolded her long legs and stood on the street. Wow, she was really stiff from the long drive. She would have to talk Kate into a yoga session later today, but for now, she needed to get herself up to the front door and ring the bell.

She could hear beautiful chimes followed by footsteps as she waited at the front door. When the door opened, she saw her mother’s best friend smiling at her.

Emma! It’s so good to see you! It’s been too long, Launa exclaimed as she reached out and pulled Emma inside the beautiful home.

Mrs. Jamison, it’s so good to see you too. I’m sorry I look like an urchin, but I never bother with my appearance when I’m traveling.

Oh, dear, you look lovely. If only I could look so beautiful without much effort. But no more of this ‘Mrs. Jamison’ business. Your mother is my best friend, and I’ve known you since you came into this world, so you absolutely must call me Launa. I know it’s been a few years since we’ve seen each other, but we won’t let that bother us now, will we?

Absolutely not, and thank you for your kind welcome. It feels so good to get out of the car and stretch my legs. Emma looked around the entryway and into the dining room to the right and into the living room to the left. Your home is just lovely. Thank you so much for inviting me to drop by. My mom said that I might be able to help you with a predicament that you’re in.

That’s right, and I hope you will be able to help, but first let’s get comfortable. I’ve just made some fresh lemonade. Would you like some?

I’d love some. Thank you.

My pleasure. Take a seat right in here, and make yourself comfortable, Launa said, pointing to the elegant living room. I’ll be right back.

Emma sat down in the beautiful, upholstered chair and tried to release the tension that had been building since her mother’s phone call. She hoped that whatever she might be getting herself into would turn out to be a good thing for herself and for the Jamisons. Her mother hadn’t given her any of the details, but she did tell Emma that Launa would fill her in on what might turn out to be a very good thing for everyone concerned.

Launa returned, carrying a tray with lemonade and homemade sugar cookies. Emma couldn’t have asked for more. There you go, sweetheart. Please help yourself, Launa instructed as she took a glass and sat down across from Emma.

Thank you so much. You have no idea how fabulous this looks right now. It’s been a hectic couple of weeks, that’s for sure.

Your mother told me that she and Owen were able to fly out to be with you for your graduation.

Emma smiled and nodded as she bit into a crisp sugar cookie.

I’m so happy for you, Emma, and I know that Owen and your mother were thrilled to be able to be there with you. They couldn’t be more proud of you.

Thank you, Launa. It was a wonderful weekend. It was so great they were able to make it, and I’m ecstatic to have graduated. It seems like I’ve been working toward this forever. Now I can focus on my next chapter and earn my master’s degree.

That’s wonderful, Emma. Your mom told me that you’re working with children who have hearing problems.

Yes, I’m studying pediatric audiology. I love children, and I hope that I can help those with hearing difficulties. I think it will be very rewarding when I finally finish and get to work with them.

I’m sure you are absolutely correct, Launa said, nodding her head. Teaching children is a joy, and I’m sure it’s even more rewarding to work with those who have special needs.

I think it will be. I was able to do some observation at a clinic during last semester, and since then, I’m even more excited about it.

That’s wonderful. And your mother said that you are in the process of moving across the country for your master’s work?

Yes, that’s right. I’ll be studying at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. They have a program that has close ties with local hospitals, so I’ll be able to have hands-on experience while I earn my degree.

That sounds wonderful, Emma.

I’m looking forward to it. Emma took a deep breath and started in on the conversation she was really here for. So my mom tells me that you have something of a predicament going on that involves your son, Kevin. She said that I might be able to help, but she didn’t give me any details, so I’m afraid you’re going to have to explain it to me.

Okay, so here’s the problem. Launa explained about Kevin and his need to escape. She then told Emma that their live-in housekeeper, Rosa, was not at the home. She also explained what would be required of the temporary housekeeper.

I need to find someone to live in the house while Kevin is resting. Someone who can cook for him, do a little housekeeping, and run to the grocery store, post office or other errands he might need. He will be hiding out in the house so as not to alert the media. I’m not sure how long he will be staying this time, but he usually stays two or three weeks before he has to get back to his regular life and career.

Launa relaxed into her chair. "The responsibilities of the job would not take all day, Emma. There would be plenty of time to enjoy the pool in the backyard, walk on the beach, read, and enjoy the Florida sunshine. Also, the salary that Kevin has agreed to pay is very generous, due to the short notice. But the most important part of the job is that it must be filled by someone that we can trust. Kevin’s privacy is paramount. He’s been able to keep this home a secret so far, and we are going to do everything in our power to keep it that way. The media must not know that Kevin is there, and they must not know