Spirit Of The Times: Better To Burn Out, #3

By D. M. Needom

Will Ava and Nigel's "Happily Ever After" be upended by Reality?

Their harmonious existence is shattered when harsh reality intervenes in their perfect married life. With fans, the press, Ava's ex-love, and Nigel's close friend, Russell Langford raising concerns, their marital bliss is put to the test. Will they manage to preserve their destiny amidst the mounting pressures of Nigel's world, or will their marriage collapse under the strain?

• Language: English
• Publisher: D.M.Needom
• Release date: Dec 15, 2023
• ISBN: 9798218324704

D. M. Needom

D.M. Needom has been creating stories since she was a kid. She started committing them to paper when she was in high school. Starting as a bassist and television model during her first foray into college, she soon discovered her preferred form of education was working in the music and film industries.  Living a fortuitous life, D.M. Needom appreciates the amazing opportunities she's had in her life. Her first stint as a radio personality came after she won a contest for knowing the song of the day. She was a mere blur in My Best Friend's Wedding as Julia Roberts ran past while she was an extra. However, the excitement of being on the set made her long to work on other projects. Her longing eventually led her to sign on to a low-budget sitcom, where she was an actress and had many other positions, including line producer.  She's stated numerous times that it was one of her favorite jobs.  Originally from New Orleans, she now calls the North West Burbs of Chicago her home with her three fur babies; Chloe kitty, and Cami and Charlie, pups. While she got to experience motherhood being a stepmother, true love was elusive until she met her second husband, with whom she spent sixteen wonderful years together.  She is the host of the Better To …Podcast with D. M. Needom. Currently, she is working on the next two books in the Better To Burn Out series Spirit of the Times and Gotta Get High To Fall So Low. She is also a gifted intuitive Psychic Medium as well as a Tarot and Oracle card reader. D. M. Needom has been providing readings at events, and parties, privately for over 30 years in the Chicago area. Currently, she is offering Intuitive readings online and at Synergy Collective, where she also teaches.

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To my readers, thank you for being on this journey with me.

The right of D.M. Needom to be identified as the author of this work has been asserted by her in accordance with the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act of 1988.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher, nor be otherwise circulated in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it was published and without a similar condition being imposed on the subsequent purchaser.

Cover art by: D. M. Needom

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, organizations, and events portrayed in this novel are a product of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, actual events or organizations is entirely coincidental.

The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners.

Visit www.dmneedom.com for more information about the author and her works.

Copyright © 2023 D.M. Needom

All rights reserved.

ISBN 979-8-218-32470-4

No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher or author, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.

Contents

1.Welcome to My Real World

2.Meet the Parents

3.Mum's Golden Boy

4.20 Questions Coming

5.A Moment of Peace

6.Off Limits

7.Dinner for Two

8.Cherry Pye

9.Big Time Movie Star

10.23 Red

11.Before We Disco

12.Bound Girl

13.Reality Crash

14.True Confession

15.Might Be Destiny

16.Real Tempting

17.Heartache to a Dream Home

18.Friends of Mine?

19.Limo Ride

20.Turkey Day

21.Pissing Match

22.Honesty

23.Welcome Home

24.Getting Your Power Back

25.Decorating the Tree

26.Spago's

27.Mile High Club

28.Let's Skate

29.Doubt

30.Hard Again

31.Perfect Gift

32.Not a Bug

33.Tabloid Fodder

34.Dad 7/85

35.Reality Sinking In

36.Hope Restored

37.The Godparents

38.Mom's Opinion

39.It's Real

40.Happy Christmas

Chapter

Epilogue - Cliffhanger

Acknowledgements

About the Author

Also By

1

Welcome to My Real World

October 31, 1984

London

Nigel

Part of me wished we didn’t have to leave Gibraltar. Everything had been perfect, and we got to be normal. However, duty called, and I had promotional appearances in London and couldn’t miss them. I glanced at Ava. Maybe I should’ve had us take a private jet, but none were available. I took a swig of scotch and wondered how she’d handle the circus. While things had been bad in Paris before we got married. Now, I was sure the attention would definitely be amplified. I reached over and took Ava’s hand and kissed her knuckles. She smiled at me. As the pit in my stomach grew, I just hoped my life wouldn’t be too much for her.

She entwined our fingers, which gave me hope we’d be okay. That was until Terry came to stand next to us.

He looked down, and before he looked at me. I know you said you didn’t want anyone to know, but I called in extra security with the single and your wedding; you two are big news.

I looked at him as relief washed over me, but I didn’t speak.

I’m sorry, he said.

No, you were right to do it. I’m glad you did. I have a feeling our arrival will be a big deal.

Glad you’re on board, Terry said before he returned to his seat. I took a sip and looked over at Ava. I recognized that look. Her fear and doubt were creeping in like they had briefly in Gibraltar before the wedding.

She took a sip of wine, and before she closed her eyes. I watched as she shook her head and knew I had to distract her from her fear and from focusing on what might await us. I reached over and patted her hand before I brought her hand to my lips again as the wheels hit the tarmac.

We’ll get settled in tonight, and then tomorrow, we’ll go see my folks, I said, smiling at her.

Shouldn’t we wait? I heard the panic in her voice.

Why? I puffed out my cheeks because I knew the more we delayed seeing my folks, the more hurt my mum would be. It’s bad enough that they weren’t at the wedding. The sooner we do this, the better. I patted her hand again. Besides, I’m sure they’ll think you’re perfect.

She nodded before she glanced out the window as we taxied to the gate. I wondered what she was thinking but soon found myself fearful of the paparazzi that I was sure would be waiting. I hadn’t announced that we were coming in. Still, I wondered if the person Terry called had alerted the media to our arrival. If Rusty had been involved, it wouldn’t surprise me, as I was sure he would do anything to reclaim Ava as his, even if that meant blowing up our marriage. He was in for a rude awakening if he thought I wouldn’t fight for Ava. As I told her about the boots I purchased, I was ready to battle for us if required.

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Terry was in front of us as we headed down the jetway. As we entered the waiting area, I slipped my arm around Ava’s waist. Four guys in dark suits were approaching, and I recognized Dylan Roberts as he broke from the pack. Once I saw him, I knew Rusty had some input, as Dylan was his personal guy. As I watched Dylan close the distance, I wondered if he was friend or foe. Not knowing which he was, had my guard up. Maybe I needed to call Rusty when we got to the house and tell him to back off.

When Ava looked at me, I knew I needed to put that thought aside, as I had to focus on her. Isn’t this a bit much? she asked.

It is, but I think it’s Russell trying to protect you in case you can’t handle the craziness of my life.

A sadness came across her face, and I hoped she wasn’t regretting what we had done. She gave me a meek smile. I saw the fans in Paris and went through the crowd, and nothing happened.

I squeezed her hand lightly. I knew she wasn’t that naïve. You were just a random girl, now, I cocked my head. Now, you’re my wife. When they discover you’re a not just a model but a fan, well, I don’t blame Russell for doing what he’s doing.

Before I could say anything, Dylan was in front of us. He held out his hand to Ava. I’m Dylan Roberts. They have assigned me to you.

Hi, but why? she asked.

Mr. Langford felt you needed personal protection. My job is to be with you wherever you are. Let me know if things ever get too much, and I will get you out, Dylan offered.

I saw her swallow and nod her head.

As we neared the main concourse, the four guys moved closer. We should’ve put on sunglasses, but it was overcast outside, and I didn’t feel the need to hide. I was married and proud to have Ava on my arm. As the guys moved closer, the paparazzi swarmed. I was used to the feeding frenzy but hadn’t thought about Ava. She was used to the flashes of a photoshoot, but this could be downright blinding. Thankful the guys in front could lead us through the chaos.

Nigel! Ava! Is it true you two got married? Did you cheat on Melinda with Ava? I looked toward the reporter and wanted to deck him. Why the fuck would someone ask that? I wouldn’t respond, and if I could, my response would’ve been me punching him in the jaw. Ava’s arm tightened around me, and I knew this mess only made it worse for her. I pulled her toward me, and she turned her face toward me. She wasn’t used to this, and I knew I needed to protect her. I moved my free hand to cradle her head as the side of her face rested against my chest.

I was glad Terry had called in the others. If it had just been him, they would’ve mobbed us more than we were. Terry and crew ushered us into a waiting van.

This is why I wanted wedding pictures. I knew we’d be a hot commodity, I said with a smile.

She looked at me oddly but didn’t say anything. I knew once we were home, I’d explain to her. She needed to understand it would help slow down the media frenzy and possibly give us a nice down payment on a house. Even though I had the money, the circus should pay us something.

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We pulled up to my house and had to double park. I felt dread, as there were even more fans than usual. I hoped my neighbors wouldn’t call the Bobbies, but this was much worse than expected, so I couldn’t blame them if they did.

Dylan and Terry exited first. I noted Dylan turning and taking Ava’s hand to help her out. Part of me was a bit ticked, but after what we just went through, I was glad she would have someone else protecting her if I couldn’t. I followed her out, and the two other guys followed me. While I could’ve stopped and met with some fans. I didn’t have it in me. Terry pulled out his keys as he led us toward the house.

While it was nice to hear the mix of screams, in all honesty, I wasn’t feeling any of it. My only concern was getting Ava into our sanctuary for the night. All the chants blended together for me as I had heard them all before, but when someone shouted, Who’s the bitch? my anger rose. I glanced in the direction I heard the comment and sneered. How dare they say that about my wife? Fucking jealous twat. However, when I heard another state, Ava, you’re so lucky. It helped calm me a bit. I didn’t want her to be hated. I wanted them to be happy for me.

Terry opened the door, and Dylan moved Ava in before me. The three other guys entered, and I knew our honeymoon was over with all the added security. I stood there momentarily and thought about Ava not wanting to go out with me in Paris because of the circus. Glancing at her, I noticed she was looking at the chandelier that was three stories tall and illuminated the stairwell. I knew the bliss we shared was now a memory of the past, as her jaw seemed tight and her shoulders tense. We had made it past her fears, but looking at her, I wondered if she regretted marrying me, as she was now pulled into my world.

Terry pulled me back to reality. We will station two guys out front and one in the back. Dylan and I will be here if either of you needs anything. We will switch off so we can get sleep. We will change the outside guys out every eight hours.

I nodded as I was aware of the drill. We had security like this on the road and sometimes at the studio. Sometimes, I wish we didn’t have the success we did; right now was one of these moments.

I looked at Terry as I spoke. Tomorrow, we’re going to Birmingham to see my mum and dad.

We can bring the van-Dylan offered.

I interrupted. He needed to understand that wasn’t how things would go. I’m driving my car. If you wish to follow, that’s fine. But you won’t be going into the house. This is family time, and I want it to be as normal as possible. My parents shouldn’t have to deal with this insanity. Not to mention, I didn’t want him reporting back to Rusty what was said. I wouldn’t give Rusty any ammo to win Ava back.

Fair enough, sir. Is there anything else that either of you need? Dylan asked.

I need you to make yourself scarce. I understand you’re here, but don’t want to see you. If you need nosh or anything, please order it or see what’s in the kitchen. Understand this is supposed to be part of our honeymoon, and I’d like some time with my wife.

Terry nodded before Dylan asked. I have one more question. Is there a room where we can sleep?

Terry responded before me. Second floor, third door on the right. I’ll show you where everything is.

Thank you, I said as I patted Terry’s back.

With Terry’s last words, they were gone.

Aren’t they just doing their job? Ava asked.

They are, but they don’t have to be underfoot. This is my home, and I deal with fans all the time. You get used to it, or you jet off to places unknown, which we will do in short order when we head back to Paris. I smiled before I pulled her in and gave her a kiss. Shite, I forgot to carry you over the threshold.

I don’t think that would’ve been appropriate, all things considered.

I shrugged. Maybe not, but it would’ve been proper. We’ll do it once we’re situated out in LA.

She didn’t respond, but I could tell she was a little shell-shocked by what had happened earlier. As I studied her, I saw the sadness there and was sure that the comments from the press and fans had hurt her, but I didn’t know what to say. Sometimes, they weren’t nice, but I learned how to deal with it.

Since the larger ones hadn’t arrived, I grabbed our two smaller bags. Let’s put these upstairs, and then we can get settled and order some food for us. I need to call my friend to rush developing the pictures.

She nodded before I started toward the stairs. As the fans’ screams were muffled, I hoped we would have time to ourselves tonight and maybe find peace like we had just this morning.

2

Meet the Parents

November 1, 1984

Ava

Since we got to London, I had felt like everything had changed. While things were perfect in Gibraltar, now I was the devil. Maybe the devil wasn’t right, as that one person straight-up called me a bitch. Why? I didn’t do anything to warrant that. All I did was love Nigel. Maybe that was the problem. I took her dream away, so I was the object of her hatred. However, some saw me as the person who came between him and his perfect love, Melinda, but it wasn’t true. Part of me wanted to ask Nigel if this was normal, but I couldn’t, as he had tried so hard last night to keep the honeymoon going. The problem was I just felt like I had made a massive mistake as I wouldn’t be perfect in the fans’ eyes and feared he’d soon realize it as well and would want this all to end.

I glanced over at him in bed, and he was still asleep. He was everything I had ever wanted, but now I really wondered if I belonged in his world.

He moaned lightly and opened his eyes. Good Morning, Darlin’.

I smiled, though, on the inside, my anxiety was building. Good morning. Did you sleep okay?

He leaned in and kissed me. Like a baby. How about you?

It took me a bit, but eventually I did.

Strange bed? Trust me, being on the road, you get used to it. Besides, this isn’t a strange bed; this is our bed, and if it isn’t comfortable, we can get another mattress.

It’s not that. The mattress is fine, I offered.

His fingers traced my jaw. Then what is it?

Is it always going to be like that?

Like what? He sat up on his elbow.

The fans, the press, they hate me.

He chuckled. Some days, they hate me. You can’t take it to heart. None of them know how I feel about you. They didn’t know Melinda, and I had been finished for a while. They just assumed the wrong thing. As far as the fans, most will embrace you because you make me happy, but there will always be one or two that have to be nasty. Please don’t let them ruin what we have. I love you, Ava, and I knew they had gotten to you last night, but I didn’t know what to say.

I’m sorry.

There’s nothing to be sorry for. It’s a lot to deal with, and I know that. That’s part of the reason I fell into bad habits. He turned away. Let me hit the loo, and then we can grab some breakfast before we get ready to see Mum and Dad. He got out of the bed and walked to the bathroom.

Nigel, maybe you should go without me, I said.

He turned to look at me. His expression clarified that he thought I was crazy. Why would I do that? You’re my wife, and they need to meet you.

I nodded my head and said nothing before he headed to the bathroom. I sat up on the side of the bed and felt my fear rising. How was I going to hide my truth from all of them? They certainly wouldn’t see me as the perfect girl for him. They would undoubtedly think I was too young, or worse, after his money. If they knew my truth, it might be even worse.

Nigel stuck his head out of the bathroom. Care to join me in the shower?

I thought you wanted breakfast before-

He stepped out of the bathroom, buck naked, came over to me, and leaned down to kiss me. I figured I could put a smile on your face. He kissed me again before he picked me up and carried me to the bathroom.

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While Nigel was talking to the security team and waiting for his friend to arrive with the wedding pictures, I asked him if there was a place for me to call Eric and Mindy. I hadn’t talked to anyone and knew I needed to. I called Eric, got his answering machine, and left Nigel’s number. Mindy was next on my list. Rubbing the back of my neck, I hoped Mindy would pick up. I didn’t want to leave a message for her like I had with Eric.

Hello, she said, out of breath.

Hi, I forced a smile on my face, even though uncertainty coursed through my veins. How are you?

Ava, oh my gawd. Why didn’t you call and tell me you were getting married?

I’m sorry. It all just happened so fast.

We had plans. I would be your Maid of Honor when you married Nigel, she said before she busted out laughing. You really are living the dream.

I gave a noncommittal laugh. While things had been a dream, they weren’t so much now. How did you know I got married?

She laughed. It was all over the place. M-TV said that you two eloped in Gibraltar and then flew to London for your honeymoon. Talk about a whirlwind courtship. Last time we talked, you were avoiding him at all costs.

What can I say? Things changed, I said with a light laugh.

Tell me everything, she implored.

I will, but now’s not the time. I’m meeting his folks today.

What?! I could hear her shock. They weren’t at the wedding?

No, no one was except his security guy, Terry. I played with the cord on the phone on the desk. I’m terrified about meeting them.

Why?

You know why, if they find out what happened.

You told Nigel, and it didn’t change anything… Her words trailed off, and I heard her long exhale. You didn’t tell him, did you?

No. Why would I? After I told Russell, he treated me like a kid.

That may be true, but Nigel deserves to know. He’s your husband.

I swallowed as my angst rose. Why? So he can look at me as damaged goods? If he finds out, he’s going to want to divorce me. He’s going to think-

She interrupted me. I think you’re mistaken. Have you and he?

Oh my gawd, yes, many times. The man is very talented and not shy about things. I laughed lightly. He definitely knows how to use his tongue and his fingers. We were lucky no one caught us the other night while having dinner at an outdoor cafe. I’m not talking, just a little tease. His hand was under my dress, and he looked me dead in the eye and said he just needed a little taste.

Damn, he said that in public?

He didn’t announce it. He just leaned in and said it with hunger. The way he looked at me, there was no way I could deny him. He had me so worked up, and I was forced to contain myself by burying my face in his shoulder. The man has made my body do things I didn’t know it could.

She laughed. You’re worried about nothing. Tell him the truth, and he will be there for you. After what you just told me, I don’t think it will matter to him.

I know you’re right. I just love him so much and don’t want to lose him. Since we got in last night, everything feels weird. The press was nasty, and then some fan asked who the bitch was. I’m just worried that he will wake up and think he made a mistake.

This isn’t a dream. You’re married to him, and I know he loves you.

How? How could she know? I knew they met for business, but why would he tell her that? She was quiet. How do you know?

We hung out.

I know you met him for tea and took his picture. Was there another time? Did he tell you this at Rusty’s party?

She paused. I met up with Nigel at the Cobra. You were busy with Russell, and I wasn’t ready to see Eric. Nigel had invited me to dinner after we wrapped the shoot.

The words rushed past my lips. So he tried to put-

No, it was all legitimate. We had dinner and hung out. He told me you were literally the woman of his dreams. In fact, he even hinted that he loved you.

Really. I looked at the picture of his parents and him on the desk. And, of course, you told him about my dreams, didn’t you?

She snickered. I told him you had a few dreams but didn’t say what they were about. Come on, I’m your friend. I wouldn’t totally sell you out.

I shook my head lightly as I asked. You didn’t tell him about my mom and Tommy?

I told him about Tommy beating Eric and choking you because we were talking about Eric leaving. He asked if Tommy was in jail, and I said no, but he got what he deserved. That’s all he knows. So trust him, Ava.

I do trust him, and I know he loves me. We had an argument the morning that everything happened. I told him the fantasy we used to joke about before Johnny. Where Nigel would come and take me away. I told him all the details. He created my perfect fantasy after the ceremony while I was still taking pictures.

If he will do that for you, there is no way he’ll walk away from you.

I laughed lightly. No, he won’t. You know he got us matching combat boots, too. I let my words trail off as I wondered if I shouldn’t just tell him.

Combat boots?

There is a complete story to it. When I saw his pair that matched mine, he said he got them to go to battle for us, for me, his queen. He actually said King Arthur needed his queen, and I was it.

She sighed. You’re so fucking lucky. I knew he was smitten with you. There is nothing you can do to change how he feels about you. 

She was right. He loved me, and nothing would change, so I needed to tell him the truth. But which one? The one I told most people about or the one that Russell knew? 

Mindy broke the silence. I wish I could’ve been there.

I smiled. I wish you could’ve too, but I have the next best thing. We have a video of it, so you can watch it.

Sounds like a plan. I’ll have the VCR waiting. She took a beat. By the way, Russell isn’t pleased with you. He wanted to know if I knew. I discovered you were married when C. C. called his office for confirmation. So, I would call him if I were you.

How is he? I asked humbly. How would you be after finding out the person you loved just married someone else? He seemed upset, but once he realized I had no clue, he decided our meeting about Grace needed to be rescheduled. So I guess he was a little stunned.

I don’t know why. Before I left, he said I could meet someone. That it was okay. Just like Johnny, his calls stopped. I called and was told Rusty was out of the office. He never responded to my messages. The last day I was in Paris, I left him a message saying I had met someone. I know he was dealing with Ed, but he could’ve taken 5 minutes for me. The truth is, as Nigel said, Helen is it for Russell. I’m just glad I saw it before I lost Nigel.

So, when will you be back to visit? Mindy asked.

I don’t know. I know Nigel has a premier here, then a date for the studio in Paris before a premiere in LA. Once I know when, I’ll plan some time for us to catch up. I played with the brass letter opener on the desk. Maybe then I’ll know where we’ll be living. We never discussed whether I’d move in with him here or in New York.

Well, I’m sure wherever you guys decide, it will be great. I could hear the smile in Mindy’s voice.

I’m sure. Thank you again for talking to me. It helped.

That’s what I’m here for, she said.

The door opened behind me. Ready to go? Nigel asked.

I turned and held up my finger.

Are you talking to Mindy or Eric? He asked.

Mindy, I responded.

Hi, Mindy, Nigel said a little louder.

Put him on the phone, Mindy demanded.

I don’t think so, I said.

I’m not going to tell him anything. Just put him on the phone, please, she said.

She wants to talk to you, I said, holding the phone towards him.

He pointed at himself, and I nodded.

Ello, he was quiet momentarily before he started laughing. I told you. He took my hand and entwined our fingers as he smiled at me. All I wanted to do was love her. He nodded. I’m glad I took your advice. It feels good to be real with someone again. He looked at me as he listened to her, and I knew I had to tell him everything. I just didn’t know when. It might upset him if I told him now, and that would ruin the visit, maybe later tonight. I’ll get you a ticket plus one for the premier unless Rusty has you working. He nodded. Well, no matter when we get out there, we’ll all have to go to dinner to celebrate. We can make it a double date. Eric and you can join us. Let me put Ava back on the phone because we need to head out. Can’t piss the parents off. Bye. He held the phone to me and gave me a quick kiss.

Thank you again, I said.

I’m happy to be here for you, and I can’t wait until you guys get out of here. We’ll have a blast celebrating.

That we will. Take care.

You as well, and don’t do anything I wouldn’t do. Oh wait, you already have, she laughed loudly.

Bye, I said before she responded in kind.

I hung up the phone and brushed my lips across Nigel’s. 

So, are you ready to go? My parents are expecting us around two, and the last thing we want to do is to be late. Nigel said.

I smiled even though my anxiety was rising. Ready as I’ll ever be.

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I was sitting