by Zuri Day
She’d never thought much about reincarnation but Nicki felt she had to have done something heinous in another lifetime. Like murder. It could only be karma from some egregious past wrong that would have put her and Vince Edwards in the same place, at the same time, right after she and Julian had broken up. Then have him ask for her number, and worse, for her to give it to him? Seemed like a good idea at the time. Hindsight revealed she couldn’t have been more wrong. Now he was coming to Paradise Cove, turning what she’d thought might be a heavenly situation after all into the pits of hell.
She picked up her phone and scrolled to the last unknown number. Trying to dial it back didn’t work. She hit star sixty-nine. That didn’t work, either. Crazy that the one time she actually wanted to talk to him, the jerk could not be reached.
She let out another groan followed by a few choice expletives. Then she reached for her phone and checked the time. Just after nine thirty, the screen indicated. Half past noon in New York. She called Paige.
“Please answer,” she mumbled, pushing the speaker button and nervously tapping her foot while the phone rang.
“Nicki, hi!”
“I can’t get rid of him” was her greeting.
“Huh. Who? What?”
“Vince Edwards. The asshole. I can’t figure out what I’ve done to deserve this type of punishment. I date the guy for a month. Do a show in Atlanta that just happens to be directed by some distant relative, and all of a sudden I owe him a favor.”
“Twenty thousand favors.”
“To be exact.”
“According to him.”
“Who does that? And why did he ask me? Why didn’t he ask one of his rich baller friends? His mother or father? A bank? I thought extortion was just about the worst he could do, but guess what? He can go even lower. I’m seriously about to lose it, Paige. Why won’t he leave me alone!”
“Whoa, Nick. You’re scaring me. Slow down. Start over. Tell me what’s going on.”
“Vince is coming to Paradise Cove.”
“Holy crap, Nick! That’s crazy!”
“Yeah, because he’s crazy.”
“You didn’t have the money here. What makes him think you’ll have it there? Julian? He wants you to get it from him?”
“Clearly his main goal is to ruin my life.” She told Paige about the community center expansion and the athletic director position. “I can’t believe he even saw it. Though he is handy with a computer and the internet. He told me that himself. And thanks to Ask that A-hole Ashley, he knew where I was.”
“From there he could have put any one of several word combinations in the search engine and pulled up that ad. What is Julian saying? He’s cool under pressure but this has got to have him pissed.” Nicki sighed and leaned against the island counter. “Nicki...you did tell Julian about Vince, right? Yeah, you told me you did.”
“I told him about a guy I dated briefly trying to extort money. I didn’t go into detail.”
“He doesn’t know it’s Vince?”
“I didn’t think it was important.”
“Do you think it’s important now? Like, before he gets to Paradise Cove. Before the interview? Before something crazy happens, like he gets the job. Something crazy like that. I don’t get why you’re being so tight-lipped about this. You already told him you dated.”
“But I didn’t say I slept with him.”
“So what? You and Julian were broken up. You were an adult on a date. It’s what we do. Tell him, Nick.”
“I already hurt him so badly when I turned him down. To know I was with another guy when we were only broken up a month? It’ll really upset him, Paige. Especially now, since it’s information I withheld when sharing the rest. Julian isn’t like the other guys. Sex isn’t a casual thing with him.”
“Then what are you going to do? Roll the dice and hope Vince doesn’t get the job?”
Nicki stood straight as an idea came to her. “Maybe I can get him to not need it. Thanks for being a sounding board, girl. I gotta go.”
“Nick—”
Too late. She’d already pushed the end button. Before she could think herself out of the tricky yet possible solution that had popped in her head, she called Jennifer.
“Hi, Jennifer. It’s Nicki.”
“Hello, Nicki. How are you?”
“I’m okay, thanks. I was calling about the artistic director position.”
“Yes?”
“While my long-term plan is to return to Broadway, and I want to make that very clear, I am now giving serious consideration to the position you offered.”
“Nicki, that’s wonderful!”
“I can only make a one-year commitment. Are you okay with that?”
“Absolutely. You can get the program up and running and hire an assistant to take over the reins. Have you told Julian?”
“No, I just decided.”
“I’m so happy, Nicki. He will be thrilled!”
“I know—can’t wait to tell him. Until then, can we keep this between us?”
“Of course. I wouldn’t want to ruin this very special surprise.”
“Um, there’s another question I need to ask, and this one is a bit awkward.”
“What is it, dear?”
“I need the specifics regarding salary, if you don’t mind.”
“Of course, Nicki. How remiss of me not to have included that in the discussion. It’s not along the lines of what someone with your experience and renown is worth, I’m afraid. The starting salary we’re offering is only thirty-five thousand annually, but there are perks, including a five-thousand-dollar signing bonus over and above the annual compensation.”
Jennifer continued detailing the benefits, which included comprehensive health insurance and paid vacation days. Those facts barely registered. Nicki didn’t hear much past the words five thousand. She wrapped up the conversation and ended the call. Her next move was going to be trying to reach Vince to make him a five-thousand-dollar offer she hoped he wouldn’t refuse.
Chapter 23
She sent Vince a text with a payment plan. Five thousand now, and five more for the next three months. He didn’t reply. A second text and again, nothing. She learned the one thing worse than hearing from Vince Edwards was not hearing from the extorter at all. Not knowing his movements. If he’d considered her offer. When or if he still planned a trip to PC.
When she finally received a text a few days later, his answer wasn’t what she wanted—he said no, with a smiley face and a LOL. He countered, once again demanding the whole twenty grand. She countered back and offered ten. It would take going into her savings and her first couple checks. Didn’t matter. Right now his absence was more important than a nest egg. He wanted her to wire the money. She wanted him to sign off on it first. Have it in writing that he’d no longer harass her, he wouldn’t come west and she’d pay him in full.
That exchange had happened days ago. He’d never responded. Her stomach nerves had been coiled ever since, in knots tight enough to puke. Couldn’t let the feelings show now, though. She’d signed the agreement to become the community center’s artistic director. Today’s Sunday brunch was being held in her honor at the country club instead of the Drake estate. Time to put on a positive game face. All eyes would be on her.
“How do I look?”
Julian took in the simple dress that on Nicki’s toned, curvy body looked elegant and chic. The deep cranberry color brought out the golden tones of her skin. The curly black locks usually kept bound were loose, framing her face and tickling her shoulders. A low-slung belt accented her small waist, and its gold trim was complemented by the jewelry she wore.
“You look beautiful, babe. I feel like the shy, nerdy kid who snagged the cute, hot girl and wondered how he got so lucky.”
&nbs
p; “You sure? I’m nervous.”
“Really?”
“A little bit.”
“Why? It’s going to be mostly family there.”
“I know. But today it becomes official. I’m going to be here for at least a year.”
While the Friday night dinner had closely resembled it, Nicki had avoided the famed Drake Sunday brunch. Having been in their town a month, this was a fete, and a calculated one at that. Individually, each Drake exuded a certain type of power and confidence. As a group they could be quite intimidating, especially for someone like Nicki, who’d grown up an only child and cherished her privacy. That she and Julian had dated for two years before she met the family had gotten her labeled “the invisible girlfriend” and made the first meeting awkward. It had taken that long for her to admit she was actually in a relationship, something she’d sworn wouldn’t happen. Her first and only love was dancing. Until Julian Drake walked into her life.
“Baby, why are you tripping? You know everybody. You’ll be fine.”
“Yes, but I’m not used to seeing everybody at once.”
“What about the other Friday?”
“That wasn’t the whole dynasty!”
“Ah, come on now. We’re not so bad.”
“Easy for you to say. You’re a Drake.”
“I could easily make it happen for you to be one, too.” He glanced over, waited. She remained silent. “I tried that once before. You weren’t ready.” He waited for an answer. “Nothing to say?”
“You already said it. I wasn’t ready. I grew up dreaming about being a dancer. Guess I never thought about being a wife.”
“And now?”
“I still haven’t thought much about it.”
“Maybe you should.”
With a last look in the mirror, Nicki reached for her purse. “Come on, babe. We should go. I don’t want to be late.”
She reached out to smooth his lapel.
“I love that you picked a shirt that matches my dress. Love that color on you, too.” She leaned over, kissed his cheek. “Who knew a man with glasses could be so sexy?”
“You know what they say. The sexiest muscle on a man is his brain.”
“That isn’t what poked me in the back this morning.”
“Touché.”
A short time later they reached the Paradise Cove Country Club. Julian pulled up to the valet, and they were soon ushered into the large private dining room, beautifully decorated in autumn shades. Deep purple cloths and pumpkin-colored linen adorned three round tables. On them were settings of white china and Waterford crystal goblets trimmed in gold, eight settings per table. Elaborate bouquets with fresh autumn flowers were in six-foot-tall vases. The room was stunning. Perfect. Surpassed only by the beautiful people casually chatting inside—the Northern California Drakes and a handful of choice supporters. Nicki was glad to learn she’d been seated with Terrell and his wife. Their shared New York background had created an instant affinity. Nicki appreciated Aliyah’s East Coast authenticity, and with Terrell at the table there would never be silence or boredom.
As waiters unobtrusively served the first course, Jennifer stood to address the room. “Good Sunday, family.”
“Good Sunday.”
“As many if not most of you already know, the past week has been one of awesome progress for the Drakes, our community center and Paradise Cove. Ike and I would like to publicly thank Wayne and Lillian Channing—” she nodded toward them “—our dear friends, longtime neighbors and staunch supporters of Niko’s political career. Last week’s polls calmed my nerves and alleviated Ike’s ulcer a bit, as Niko’s lead reached double digits.” The room applauded. “The news is encouraging but we can’t ease up. Son, no matter what happens, know that you have been an exemplary mayor of Paradise Cove and a stellar example of true leadership. We’re so very proud of you.
“I am also delighted to make official an addition to our family. Oops,” Jennifer hurriedly continued with mock dismay. “I meant faculty—to the Drake Community Center faculty.” The room joined her in laughter. Julian placed a firm arm around Nicki as Jennifer pointed out, “Nicki Long.”
Applause and whistles followed.
“Until recently Nicki was a lead dancer on Broadway, starring in the hit show A Hair’s Tale.”
Jennifer was interrupted by a ringing cell phone.
“Hold up, Mom,” Terrell blurted. “That might be Broadway calling her back!”
“Don’t answer,” Jennifer pleaded dramatically. “Please, don’t answer!”
Humored responses and chuckles followed as an embarrassed Nicki hurriedly reached for her clutch, pulled out the phone and silenced it.
“Is everything okay?” Jennifer asked. Nicki nodded. “Good, because unfortunately a few weeks ago, that was not the case. Nicki was injured in a bicycle accident and was forced to leave the show. Paradise Cove and our center are the grateful beneficiaries of her misfortune, as she has just signed on to a yearlong term as Drake Community Center’s artistic director.”
Nicki forced a smile as the diners applauded. She felt Julian’s arm slide around her shoulders and tried to find comfort within the embrace. Tried to present a cheery, peaceful demeanor despite the text she’d glimpsed just seconds before. From Vince. Four short words that stabbed her heart like a knife.
See you in PC.
Chapter 24
In his next text, he agreed to take the money. Added he was still coming to town. The center had paid for the flight. Her nerves became so frayed that simple breathing was difficult. How did criminals operate without having a breakdown? Between the covert back-and-forth text exchanges with Vince and assuring an astute Julian she was okay, Nicki was almost ready for a shot of tequila. Instead, she turned her mind to more positive news. Like how within a few hours her cast would be gone. And perhaps convincing Paige to come out for a visit. A Hair’s Tale was nearing the end of its first run and Paige had never been to PC.
Julian flopped on his back, barely awake. “You sure you don’t want me to stay and go with you?”
“No, thank you, babe. You’ve been amazing these past four weeks. I’ve been coddled and spoiled and a part of me could get used to that. But that independent part that you love so much is screaming for control!”
“That sounds like you’re still going to rent a car.”
“I am. For a whole week, at least!”
Nicki watched Julian get out of bed and walk into the bathroom shaking his head. She couldn’t see the problem. He wanted to run out and buy her a car. She wanted time to try out different models and find which model fit her, what style she wanted. She also wanted to secure a loan and make the payments instead of allowing Julian to plunk down a big stack of cash. Julian didn’t know that part. He already did so much, basically took care of everything. Nicki appreciated everything he did but wanted to be a bit self-reliant. With her five-thousand-dollar advance going to el jerko, money was going to be tight. Of course, Julian didn’t know that, either. Thankfully he never would. Vince would refuse the job if offered, leave town and the nightmare would be over.
Devante drove her to the medical institute. Just thirty short minutes later, Dr. Allen had removed the cast, X-rayed her ankle and given a positive update. The bone was healing quickly and correctly. He didn’t want her to put too much pressure on it yet and had given her an Aircast to keep it protected. But he’d given her the green light on driving. Next stop, rental car company.
She chose a black Hyundai Sonata. Sleek. Sporty. And undoubtedly less expensive than any car Julian would have chosen for her. After assuring Devante that she’d be fine, she plugged an address into the GPS, stopped at a drive-through for a shake—and to put distance between her and Devante—and then headed back to Paradise Cove. It seemed she got there in no time. She pulled into the
strip mall parking lot where she’d suggested they meet. It was nearing lunchtime, the parking lot fairly full. She parked on the back side of the mall, near an insurance company without much traffic. Less chances of being seen by any of the town’s busybodies. Which Nicki had learned in a small town meant just about everybody.
Ten minutes passed. She was early. No big deal. Ten more minutes. A little late, but no need to panic. Or was there? Nicki had assumed Vince would be driving a rental. But what if someone from the community center picked him up? She sent a quick text, asking what kind of car he was driving and whether or not he was on his way. She also described her Sonata and where she was parked. Thirty harrowing minutes later, a late-model car whipped into the lot. She honked her horn. He spotted her and parked in the empty space next to her car.
Vince got out of the car, or more like uncoiled six feet and five inches of strong bones and chiseled muscle from inside the low-key sedan she’d insisted upon when a sporty convertible or luxury model was what he would have rented. The whole point of being in PC was to hide, she’d reminded him. To be on the down low. To blend in.
She watched his slow, easy gait as he walked to her car. He could have driven a Ford truck like Julian’s brother Warren and the rest of the ranchers. But he still would have stuck out like a rooster in a coop of guinea fowl as soon as he smiled. The same pearly whites that were on display as he opened her car door and sank into the seat beside her. The same boyish grin that separated women from their panties. That had caused Nicki to ignore her head’s knowledge and her gut’s warning against such and give the guy her number.
“Hey, beautiful.”
His attempt at a kiss was stopped by a strong hand on a hard chest.
“Don’t.”
“What?” Vince asked, hands raised in mock innocence. “I was just going for your cheek, a friendly kiss.”
“I’m not here to be friendly. I’m here to try to settle this craziness so you can get out of my life.”
“Wow...”
“It’s not personal, Vince. And that probably didn’t come out the way that it should. This is a small town. That’s the reason. And the Drakes are very much a part of it.”