Chapter 15

CHAPTER 15

E vangeline

An impossible situation.

That’s what I’d found myself in. I hadn’t tried. I’d simply wanted to have a good time with girlfriends. I’d been fooling myself thinking my friends weren’t heavily embroiled in the society. I guess I’d so wanted to believe I had something I could hold onto of my own. Plus, all four of them had talked about getting out, so happy they had jobs on the outside. Lies. Lies!

My guess was that they’d been allowed to have a life outside of the compound after agreeing to marry whoever the hell their fathers wanted them to marry. God, I was the dumbest chick in the world.

I’d fallen into a trap, including the use of my parents. Or was that completely the truth?

Gage appeared in front of me, sitting down on the thick leather chair across from me. So far, the plane ride had been smooth, the beautiful scenery comforting, but I remained on edge. It felt like that by heading to San Diego, I was going even further away from my little boy.

“Have some water.” Gage’s voice was soft, comforting. “You need to stay hydrated.”

I eyed him carefully, wondering why he was doing all this for me. I was still a basic stranger, no matter how close we’d gotten intimately. “Joseph knows about you.” I accepted the water.

“I’m certain he does. Good. Maybe he’s smart enough to figure out he’s met his match.”

“How has he met his match, Gage? You’re one of the good guys. They are anything but…”

He grasped my hand, his grin far too infectious. And sexy. “Trust. Remember. What you found in the glossies on the internet about me and my family is barely a tip of the iceberg, much like if anyone looks up Joseph and his family. Powerful families don’t always do things the right way. Do you understand?”

“I don’t know.” I was exhausted. Yes, I’d fallen asleep, waking to find him dozing in a chair near me. After that, my monsters had taken over big time in ugly nightmares as usual.

“Morally gray? Crossing that thin light of right and wrong?” He certainly didn’t seem embarrassed about it either.

“I get it. Obviously, I was more na?ve than I believed but I’m honestly not stupid. I just wanted to believe in the best of people. Do you really think you and your family can help me?”

“I do. I won’t stop until your son returns home. However, you’re not staying in Connecticut.”

“Where am I going?”

“I think you just might like San Diego.”

“And leave my family?” I knew I had to. I wasn’t a fool.

He glanced out the window of the plane. “I’m not trying to hurt you any more than you’ve already been hurt, Evangeline, but there is a strong chance your father is a part of the group or at minimum owes them a large debt of some kind. I have a feeling part of his payment was to look the other way when your son was taken.”

Another something that wasn’t a big shock, although it hurt to hear it coming from someone else. “Yeah, I had a feeling.”

“You did?”

“Too many unanswered questions with my father. Late night meetings. He’s been very clandestine over the years. I even asked once why we were living in such a commune-like environment. He took me all around the house reminding me that we would never be able to afford anything close to what the house was worth in Weathered Heights.”

“Weathered Heights. Sounds amazing.”

“Yeah. Sounds lovely, doesn’t it? On the outside, it’s pristine and well maintained. It’s the kind of community where you can drive down the street and everyone will stop and wave, huge smiles on their faces. Meanwhile, they really want you to get the hell out. I remember the board once voted to put gates on every entrance with guards, but the city had a fit. The roads are public, not private.”

“How did you manage the divorce? I know you said you weren’t certain before.”

I think I was staring at him wide-eyed because he looked perplexed. “The truth is I’m not one hundred percent certain. Maybe I had my blinders on to what was really going on. I’d had an argument with Joseph. He was being a bastard, even raising his arm to beat me. I dared him to do it, getting right in his face, which wasn’t necessarily like me. I told him I wanted a divorce and I had enough money to get my own attorney. And I did. I was clever in how I squirreled away a tidy little sum. I left the house with Damien and an already packed bag, went to my parents, and flat out told them. I didn’t even tell my besties I’d left. I just went to a motel, turned my phone off, and chilled for a couple days.”

He shook his head. “You were lucky. Did you see anyone watching you?”

“No. That doesn’t mean someone wasn’t hiding in the bushes somewhere, but if they were, I couldn’t see them and I looked. I was refreshed, had contacted an attorney, and even managed to squeeze in a first meeting. My guess is Joseph and his band of merry men found out I was dead serious. Suddenly, when I returned, everything was different. We sat down, worked out a plan, and I was granted my divorce. I didn’t ask why the change of heart. I didn’t care.”

“And Damien?”

“Of course I didn’t fight visitation rights. It was all very… strange in my opinion. I didn’t ask to move out of the community, I left.”

“And your friends?”

“Well, all four were living off the property so I didn’t think anything of it.”

“And what do you think about them now?”

I laughed, chugging on water before I answered. “Maybe I’ve watched too many horror movies, but I honestly think every child at first is deemed marriage material. For the boys, maybe they have more of a choice in the candidates but for the girls, they are paired with sons of important men who have or will be moving into the community. Keep in mind, the people allowed in can and will do various things for the community from ensuring a vote that affects the community goes the right way, to taxes, beautiful committees, and even blocking developments that might crowd the area. They want their little community kept very private.”

“They are a piece of work.”

“You have no idea. Try attending a holiday picnic when you feel like you’re being sized up like a side of beef. Oh, it was postcard perfect, often catered and the perfect music, but at least for me, I could feel nothing was real.”

“Did you ever talk to your mother about it?”

“Look, I love my mother and that was one of the reasons I trusted her with Damien. The truth was that my original babysitter backed out at the last minute. She didn’t have a single explanation as to why. She was even short on the phone. I had no choice but to cancel the trip and Heidi berated me when I tried. But as far as talking to my mom, she will sit, smile, and nod like a good Stepford wife. If you don’t know what that means, look it up. I swear the next go-around will look more like the Handmaid’s Tale .”

He took my hand into his, rubbing my knuckles before bringing my hand to his mouth. I knew he was doing his best to keep me calm in the face of everything horrible that was going on. “I’m going to venture another educated guess your babysitter was coerced to back out.”

“You mean threatened.”

“Yeah, I do. I know this is a lot for you to process but we have to look at the worst-case scenario.”

Now I gave him a hard look. “I never told you this or anyone else, but I have some information I gathered on issues or meetings. It’s not much, but I never allow the drive to leave my side. I sewed it into the lining of my purse so in case anything happened, I might have evidence. The group is so powerful, I could lose everything including any access to my son. I couldn’t allow that to happen. I was sneaky, even slipping into houses when there were parties and social gatherings, and there were many. Don’t worry, I was pretty slick.”

He grinned like I hadn’t seen him do before. “You are more conniving than I originally believed.”

“When you have a child who is important property, you will stop at nothing to keep him protected. I just did a shitty job this time.”

“Stop beating yourself up. You were lured down a path. Not a good one. I have resources that can help, people that will help. Just keep placing your trust in me. Okay?”

He leaned over and just having his lips so close felt a little like home. That might sound strange to some, but he was the only normal I’d experienced in a long time. As he captured my mouth, there was passion, but that wasn’t what the slight moment of intimacy was about. It was allowing me to know he wasn’t going to abandon me.

I gripped his neck, pulling him in even closer. When we finally pulled away at the same time, he couldn’t help himself, biting down on my lower lip and growling. Just another reminder he wasn’t going anywhere.

“Now, we still have over four hours to go. I suggest you get some rest. I still have a few phone calls to make.”

“Can I ask a favor?” I asked, batting my eyelashes.

“Absolutely.”

“Can I have something stronger than water?”

“Babe. You can have anything you want.”

California.

Hollywood.

The land where wild dreams could come true. Thankfully, we weren’t headed to Los Angeles. I wasn’t certain I could take the smog or the heat. Sadly, I knew almost nothing about San Diego. I’d heard it was beautiful with rolling waves, pristine beaches, and huge houses that could rival any mansion in the upper east, but the moment he grabbed his hot red sports car, giving me a look that said in no uncertain terms ‘buckle up,’ I had no idea the treat I’d be in store for.

“I’ll take you on a little tour. Not long because I’m certain you want to get settled, but you should see the quaintest areas and what we’re known for.”

“I’d like that. Just don’t drive too fast.”

“Baby, I drive like a bat out of hell.” He took off, the interstate drive from the small corporate airport. I was able to see the skyline of the city, but it could be anywhere. When he took an exit, forced to slow down, I paid more attention.

“This is the truly older part of downtown. It’s been refurbished over the years. Now, in about three blocks, start looking to your right past the buildings. You’ll start to see the ocean. That’s Mission Beach. There’s an incredible boardwalk full of walkers and skateboarders. Restaurants line the one side, nothing blocking the ocean on the other. You can see the most colorful people every single day.”

At least I could laugh. “I would love to spend some time one day.”

“We will. When everything is back to the way it’s supposed to be.”

Whenever and if that was even possible.

“And next time, I’ll have my convertible,” he said, shifting gears again.

“How many vehicles do you own?”

Gage almost looked sheepish. “A few.”

“Uh-huh. Rich boy’s toys.”

“A boy’s gotta have a hobby. Come on. We’ll get you back to the house.”

Not knowing anything about the city, it didn’t seem to take long before he suddenly drove into some of the most beautiful palm tree-lined, perfectly coiffed streets I’d ever seen. The difference from the way Weathered Heights appeared was that you could tell this area had rich but very normal people enjoying their wealth and nothing more. Maybe I was crazy, but the vibes as we drove by were totally different.

He made a couple of turns and slowed as he rolled down a street.

“You live here?”

“I do. It’s smaller than the homes my brothers live in but suits me just fine.”

As he rolled to a gated section at the end of the road, I quickly glanced in his direction. No, I couldn’t see the house from the incredible and very vivid foliage lining the driveway. I could see dozens of crepe myrtles and the most stunning raspberry color on one side, and the other held huge hibiscuses in orange and yellows and other shrubs I couldn’t identify. However, anyone who lived behind gates had something to protect.

Or something to hide.

I had a feeling with the Royal family, it was all about keeping their success as private as possible. “Let me guess, you have staff.”

He chuckled as he pressed his thumb on a keypad, the iron gate immediately sliding open. “Well, since I do a lot of traveling, I need some people. I have two incredible housekeepers, one who purchases groceries for me. Not always. Just when I’ve been away. Of course I have a couple landscapers, who I think do an incredible job with the lawn and surrounding area, and I also have what you would call a pool boy.”

“Uh-huh. Not a pool girl?”

“Not a pool girl. I don’t go trolling for girlfriends if you’re worried about that.”

“Why would I be worried?”

As he drove up an incredible winding driveway, I was prepared to have my breath taken away. And it was. I’m not sure what I expected, but the Mediterranean-style home wasn’t it. It was two stories with the traditional arched windows and doors, a lovely balcony attached to three of the upstairs windows, one set of arched French doors. There was a stunning entrance feature leading to a massive arched wooden door. In front was an art-inspired fountain and wading pool, the fountain itself shaped like a dolphin with the water escaping the dolphin’s open mouth.

The landscape continued on both sides, the lovely architecture so picturesque I was certain it had been photographed for some fancy magazine. I could see a three-car garage attached to the house with what appeared to be another three-car garage in a separate building.

“This is… Holy shit.”

He laughed. “I take it you like?”

“Like? This could be taken straight out of a book of dream homes for me. I can’t wait to see inside. Is it a man cave?”

“I guess you’ll have to judge for yourself.” He cut the engine and I was surprised he didn’t pull it into one of the garages. Maybe later. “Come on. Let me grab the luggage.”

“Shame I don’t have any.”

“Stop worrying. I’ll handle all that with your approval of course.”

“You are that kind of man. Take control. Including of your woman.”

He tipped his head after walking to the trunk. “Maybe.”

“No maybe about it.”

There was no huge staff to greet us, which made me feel a bit more comfortable. I’d never considered myself rich, mostly because I’d been stupid enough to allow Joseph to control our funds, but he certainly enjoyed the perks. Maybe I couldn’t stomach the thought of spending time with any man who needed people to wipe his butt for him.

Gage didn’t need to bother unlocking the door, but he opened it for us like a true gentleman. I could tell he was eager to see how I liked his house. Now, my house. At least for a little while. I could feel safe here, which was something I hadn’t truly felt in a very long time.

The moment I stepped in, I couldn’t help but gasp. I think I expected the interior would be formal and stodgy. It was anything but. Even the flowers in a stunning vase on the glass table in the entrance foyer reminded me of freshly picked wildflowers.

“Don’t get used to the flowers. I told Emily I had a special guest. She took it upon herself to believe I meant a woman and wanted to brighten up the place.”

“They are lovely.”

“Come on. I’ll show you around.” He led me through a gorgeous house. While the arched doorways continued throughout the premises, a huge stone fireplace sat in the one living room we entered, and the furniture also looked comfortable. I wanted to sit in one of the plush chairs or lie on the couch reading a book.

“I’m floored and nothing about you should floor me.” I headed toward the set of double French doors, peering out at the insanely gorgeous pool that reminded me of something you’d see in the tropics. There was even a smaller outdoor kitchen, also insanely gorgeous. The umbrellas dotting the exterior of the lagoon-style pool, complete with a massive waterfall, were all colorful.

He smirked. “Unlike my brothers, I wanted to enjoy the home I lived in. They are always working, which drives me insane. Why bother having money if you can’t enjoy it? Let’s go see the kitchen. We can spend some time outdoors later.”

When we closed in on the kitchen, I heard two female voices, both laughing. He boldly walked in, smiling as if this was normal.

Another pleasant and refreshing sight.

“Oh, God. Mr. Royal. We didn’t know you were home.”

“It’s quite alright, Camilia. I just wanted to introduce my house guest. She might be here for an extended period of time.” He seemed happy about explaining who I was. “Her name is Evangeline Weathers.”

“Miss Weathers, I’m Emily. Whatever you need, just ask.”

“Evangeline, please. You’ll make me feel tremendously old by calling me Miss Weathers. Lovely to meet you both.” They were young, both still blushing.

“I took the opportunity of purchasing a few food items and wine for your arrival home,” Camilia said.

“And I purchased the few things you asked me to for Miss… Evangeline.”

I lifted my eyebrow and gave him a look, even punching him in the gut with my elbow. That seemed to delight the two women, especially when he grunted like I’d seriously hurt him.

“Big baby,” I muttered.

I had a feeling the girls could tell me stories.

“You are incorrigible. Come on, let’s show you to your suite.”

“All fresh linens and towels,” Emily piped in.

“What would I do without either one of you?” he asked.

“Suffer,” Camilia said, acting very coy.

I could easily tell the household wasn’t strict or with heavy rules. I already loved the atmosphere. He led me up a flight of curved stairs to a lovely hallway. Again, every door had an arched top, the wood color adding to the vivid paint on the walls.

As he opened the door, he was the one now giving me a wicked grin. The room was just as incredible as the rest of the house. As I walked through the sitting area complete with three built-in bookshelves, I was overwhelmed by gratitude. The wide opening on the side led to perhaps the prettiest bedroom I’d ever stayed in, nice hotels included.

“There’s a bathroom right through there. And of course, you have your own private balcony.” He was leaning against the doorjamb, an adorable grin on his face.

“What? I can’t stay with you?”

I was halfway teasing, although I did want to see what he had to say. “I’m no fool, Evangeline. What we’ve shared has been incredible. However, when you find out something tragic like your son has been taken, that takes precedence emotionally, physically, mentally. I’m not going to push you into acting as if this is nothing but a romantic interlude. Plus, I think sometimes just having a private space will do you some good. We’ll see what happens, but my main goal is getting your son back.”

I could tell there was more by the sharp look in his eyes. Honestly? If he wanted to destroy the great commune, I was all for it. “This is amazing. Thank you.”

“No thank you needed. I knew your size, so I had Emily pick out a few dresses and shorts, sandals and even a bathing suit. Nothing fancy but at least you’ll have a start. There are some toiletries and I have no doubt six kinds of shower gel and shampoo in the bathroom. I think the girls have been waiting with bated breath for me to bring a woman home.”

“You haven’t done that before?” Now I was floored.

“Nope. This has been my private space. Get settled. I have a meeting with my brothers. I’ll go over the plan later but if it’s possible, do you have a recent photograph of your son and can you supply that jump drive? I’m not stealing it.”

I had to laugh. “You can have anything if that will help you.” I took my purse to the bed, sitting down and finding my billfold. I had several pictures of my baby but one was perfect, highlighting his dimples, that adorable smile he had. Just holding it in my hand suddenly brought overwhelming sadness. Tears even slipped past my lashes. “Mommy is going to bring you home, baby. I promise you.” I kissed the picture as I laid it on the bed, glancing at Gage.

There was no doubt how troubled he was or how angry.

I dug the stitches from the side of my purse, able to pry out the jump drive. He walked closer when I had it in my hand.

“You have my promise I’m going to burn down whatever city I need to get Damien back. Okay?”

I handed him the items before wiping my eyes. “I’m going to hold you to that.”

“You can. Try and rest. It was a long flight. Oh, one last question. What prompted you to try and go for full custody and issue a restraining order?”

I laughed, the sound bitter. “Because he started stalking me. Everywhere I went, there he was. When the preschool called saying Joseph had tried very hard, including making threats to pick up the baby, I knew his behavior was only going to get more irrational. I took the last of the money I had at the time to get my attorney to file a restraining order. Fortunately, he found a judge that didn’t appear to be influenced by the group. That’s when Joseph really lost it, threatening me on a regular basis. Then it stopped, as if he realized he wasn’t getting anywhere. I know what you’re going to tell me. He did so to force my guard to drop. Well, it worked.”

“Stop blaming yourself, darlin’. Men like that are extremely good at faking whatever emotion they want. They do best threatening people when they think they can get away with doing so, but they’ll take down anyone and enjoy being a bully. I know the type. And don’t worry. I can handle the asshole better than most.”

“Somehow, I have a feeling you can.”

Nodding, I watched him walk out, and as soon as he did, closing the door behind him, I let myself go, rolling over and sobbing against the comforter. Why had I been so stupid?