Chapter 30

CHAPTER 30

B ella

“ Secrets ,” a former teacher had told me, “ will always end a relationship .”

I had too many of them to count.

So did Jagger.

We were mired in them. For all the joy I’d been able to experience over the last couple of weeks, a heavy weight was coming close to crushing me.

“Stop fidgeting,” I told Jagger as I adjusted his tie. “You look debonair.”

And he did. In fact, he looked as if he’d just walked from a hot male magazine meant to drive women nuts. It was working for me.

“Yeah, right. Why the hell am I wearing this shit?”

“You mean a jacket and tie? Because the event is slightly more formal.”

“Do you think Shephard isn’t going to know something is up? He ain’t wearing a tie.”

I grinned and stood back, admiring the look on him. He’d even shaved, allowing me to watch as he’d cut off his long beard. “You look much younger and sexier without that Brillo pad on your face.”

He yanked me into his arms. “I thought you adored my beard. The way it scratched that sweet pussy of yours. Huh? Tell the truth.”

“I’m not saying a thing.” When he pushed me over the back of the couch, swatting my behind, I squealed, which caused Xena to bark like crazy. I had to laugh. He was much more playful lately, although I still sensed there was a darkness in him that would haunt him for many years to come.

“I can’t believe you roped me into this,” he grumbled as he returned me to a standing position.

“It’s good for you to get out. Makes Mr. Grumpy a nicer guy.”

He rolled his eyes, not something he normally did. “Let’s go. Where do they think we’re going?”

“A fabulous restaurant.”

“And how did you convince them to go?”

I backed out of his reach. “By telling them you had a little announcement to make.”

“You did not.”

“Yes, I did.” I grabbed my coat, heading out the door before he could grab me.

He waited a few seconds before emerging from the house, as grumpy as ever. “You will get it for this.”

“Promises. Promises.”

Jagger was still grousing as he climbed into the Range Rover, huffing as he started the engine. “Just remember, your hours are numbered.”

“It will be fun. Besides, everyone can use reasons to celebrate.”

I knew I did. Christmas was around the corner and I honestly had no idea how well I’d handle the holiday. Or if I could. Time would tell.

The clock was ticking.

He said very little as he drove, although he kept his hand on my knee. But I was very observant, noticing he continuously glanced into the rearview mirror. He’d also checked his phone several times, never mentioning a word of what he was doing.

Secrets.

I sat back in the seat, trying to calm my nerves. This was a celebration, a beginning of a new life together. I was happy for the couple, even though I was wondering if I’d ever experience something so incredible like marriage again. I refused to allow Joel to sour me on the subject.

As he pulled into Shephard’s driveway, he grumbled another long list of reasons the engagement party was a bad idea. I’d gathered the distinct feeling his bad mood had nothing to do with the party and more to do with the question hanging over his head.

Would he agree to be his brother’s best man?

“I’ll be right back. Do not go anywhere,” he barked, although his expression softened after peering back at me from the driver’s door.

“Where am I going?”

“Knowing you, anywhere you want.”

I noticed Denise giving him a big hug and whispering something in his ear before they headed to the vehicle.

“Where the hell are we going?” Shephard asked as soon as he slid into the backseat. “And why am I wearing this getup?”

“Are all three of you nothing but grumpy bastards all the time?” I asked.

“Yes,” Denise confirmed. “They are. But that’s why we love them. Right?”

The two of us could laugh while the men bristled. I could also breathe a little easier for tonight. I’d be amongst friends.

“We’re going to a dress-up place,” I told them.

Shephard grumbled just like Jagger always did.

The ride to the restaurant only took a few minutes. For some reason I was thankful for that. It seemed oppressive sitting next to Jagger, as if another shoe was going to fall. When he kept his hand pressed against my back as we walked toward the entrance, constantly scanning the parking lot, my gut told me he was preparing for something to happen.

I sucked in my breath, only able to give him a strange look before walking inside. This was a surprise party after all. I couldn’t pull him aside and grill him on what was going on until later.

At least Jagger took over, mentioning the Fox name for our reservation while I studied the people inside the restaurant. I suddenly had a feeling we were being watched, studied as we were walking toward the back of the location.

My skin was crawling. Although I attempted to tell myself I was being foolish, the ugly sensations remained.

“Right this way,” the hostess told us, heading for a set of closed doors.

“Why do I feel like this is a setup, bro?” Shephard asked.

“Don’t fucking look at me,” Jagger said, grinning as he looked in my direction.

“Hey, I was just the decoy,” I told them.

Denise smacked her hand on her waist. “To what?”

The doors were opened and as everyone inside screamed surprise, any possibility of responding was lost in the gleeful whoops and hollers of the fifty or so people. Instantly, music began to play, almost everyone coming up to congratulate them. Poppy had pulled out all the stops, creating a breathtaking environment. There were waiters walking around with silver trays full of flutes of champagne, the delicious scent of food wafting throughout the room.

Candles were everywhere and there was a small band that was lively and already creating a warm atmosphere. I also noticed a group of video equipment pushed against one wall. The event was going to be videotaped. An instant wave of nausea rolled through me. The thought was far more difficult to shove away than normal.

“Champagne, city girl?” Jagger asked.

“Sure.” I could tell the instant he realized something was off, his brow furrowing and as he’d done before, he swept the room. “What are you looking for, Jagger? Do you expect someone to crash the party?”

“No, of course not. What’s wrong? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“Just a nagging feeling like you obviously have. Why do I have the notion you’re hiding something from me?”

“Why don’t you relax for tonight,” he suggested.

“Jagger. Please don’t patronize me. I know you at least well enough at this point to realize you’re doing everything you can to protect me. I think that includes using whatever contacts you have from the past in an effort to destroy Joel. If I’m right, I appreciate the thought, but I need to fight this battle.”

“I don’t think you understand what you’re up against.”

“Meaning what?”

“Meaning your marriage was arranged. Did you know that?”

I took a step away from him. “I already mentioned that’s what I believed. The way you just said that is like you know it’s true for certain and why. Is that true?” I was right. He’d done some searching. What could he have learned that I didn’t know?

Whether or not he was going to answer I’d never know, as Denise broke through the crowd of well-wishers, pulling me into a tight embrace. “Thanks for this.”

“I can’t take any credit. It’s all Poppy’s doing.”

“I’m surprised you were in on this, but it’s a nice surprise.” Shephard reached out, waiting for Jagger to shake his hand.

Jagger and I locked eyes. I had a feeling this was going to be a very long night.

“Come on. This is a party you helped orchestrate. Don’t stand here like wallflowers,” Denise dictated. I could tell she wasn’t going to take no for an answer.

“We better follow her orders, bro,” Shephard piped in. “Thank you.”

“Sure. Anything for the happy couple.” Jagger grabbed my arm before we were absorbed into the crowd. “Do me a favor. Stay by my side tonight. Don’t go anywhere without me.”

While I’d been afraid before, the concerns were nothing in comparison to the way I felt at this moment. “Okay. But you need to explain what you meant.”

“I will. I promise.”

As we meshed with the partygoers, everyone in town I knew joining in the festivities, I continued to look over my shoulder. The apprehension remained, but slowly over the next half hour, I started to relax.

Maybe I was a fool, but if I didn’t let go of my past, I’d never have a future here.

Poppy was suddenly at the podium that had been brought to a small makeshift stage. She clapped her hands first, finally tapping the microphone.

“Ouch!” someone called from the audience.

“Well, I had to get your attention somehow. We have the entire night to drink and dance, but now, it’s time for the show.”

“Oh, no,” Denise hissed. “I don’t think I like where this is going.”

Although I had an indication of what Poppy had collected, the story of their love affair a sweet touch, I found myself continuing to glance at the door to the auxiliary room. I don’t know what I was expecting, but I was glad Cally was staying with Zoe for a little girl party time.

Jagger remained closer as everyone crowded closer to a screen that suddenly dropped down from the ceiling.

“Did you have anything to do with this?” Shephard growled at his brother.

“Do I look like I’m the kind of guy to be involved with something like this?” Jagger shook his head. “No. Hell, no.”

I remained where I was, although as soon as the first slide was presented, I was pushed forward. Jagger wasn’t right behind me and my throat instantly closed.

“Do you want to see how this love affair began?” Poppy continued.

The guests cheered.

“Then please roll the video.”

The lights were lowered, leaving me far more uncomfortable.

I was only partially paying attention as I pushed my way past a few people, finally locating Jagger talking with Hunter. He noticed I was searching for him, giving me a slight nod. At least he was within sight.

I took a deep breath and tried to pay attention, but I couldn’t seem to find a way of concentrating. Maybe it was because my head was aching, the dull throb behind my eyes making it difficult to keep a haze from forming over my eyes.

After grabbing a second glass of champagne, I found a spot where I wouldn’t be noticed. The urge to leave was strong, so much so I was fearful I’d hyperventilate.

I held my purse close, doing my best to shake off the dread almost consuming me. When my phone buzzed indicating a text, I shivered. Even Zoe didn’t have my number, Jagger providing his instead in case there were any issues. Maybe it was Esme with a surprise. I fumbled to grab my phone, doing everything I could to keep from dropping the glass.

But the moment I pulled the burner phone from my purse, the light in the room began to fade.

Unknown: You thought you could run and get away with destroying me. You thought wrong. Get prepared, little bitch, your day of fame is going to be a doozy.

My hand shaking, I lifted my head, once again searching for Jagger. The entire world seemed to be in slow motion.

He noticed me, immediately breaking away from Hunter.

The lights went out, the projector as well, the entire crowd roaring their disapproval.

And Poppy cursing at the top of her lungs.

But the moment the projector popped back on, I braced myself for what was to come.

As my face appeared on the screen, the video Joel had taken in full and very vivid display, I couldn’t move.

Couldn’t breathe.

My new life and the love I felt I’d finally found were over.

Forever.

Scenes.

Memories.

Laughter.

Shock.

Every emotion rolled through me, flashes of light providing a horrible haze in front of my eyes. I could hear my name being called. Feeling faint, I tried to push my way through the crowd.

“Don’t,” Denise said from behind me, grabbing me into a bearhug. “It’s okay. It’s going to be okay.”

“Ladies and gentlemen,” a growl emitted throughout the room.

“How is it going to be okay?” Tears stung my eyes, the dirty deed Joel had performed far too low. How could he do this? Why? Was it all about the fact I refused to stay married to him?

I broke away from her, tearing to the front.

“We’re not done yet,” the gravelly voiced man shouted again.

But there was more, the film cut off after only thirty seconds, a deep voice taking over the presentation.

“The dazzling couple you’ve fallen in love with aren’t the golden boy and girl you believed. And do you want to know why?”

Was that the sheriff?

Oh, my God. It was. In his hand was a microphone, the townspeople crowding even closer.

I shrank back, every inch of my body shaking.

Jagger broke through the crowd, finding and taking me into his arms. “Stay here.”

“No. Don’t leave me. What’s he doing?”

“I don’t know, but I need to find out.”

Commotion roared as the sheriff continued. “Jagger Fox is a murderer. And do you want to know how I know that? Because he killed my daughter.”

As pandemonium broke out, the guests going wild, everything remained a blur. The words echoed in my ears, my vision remaining cloudy. Yet one image played into my mind.

Jagger jumped through the crowd, pushing and shoving, his brothers right beside him.

And with one brutal punch to the sheriff’s jaw, the man was knocked to the floor.