“No doubt. Good luck with the girl.”
Joshua looked at his cell phone. Why did he get the feeling Brandon wouldn’t stay out of his business? He shook his head. Once Brandon saw a chance to make money, he was like a horse. He would ride until he got that apple.
There was one private reason that Joshua wanted Brandon out of his affairs. Geneva’s posts indicated she had a passion for God. He wanted to know why she felt that way. What was it about God that inspired her trust?
It had been a long time since Joshua had been passionate about anyone or anything. He had fortune and fame, but here he was envious of a woman’s passion. What he wouldn’t give to feel what she felt for one day.
If she chose him, he would make sure to find out.
Ch. 10
Isabella waltzed into her house. “Forget about those duds. I know who you need to take.” She placed their takeout on the dining table and sped down the corridor.
Geneva massaged her neck and followed Isabella into her office. “Who? If you’ve narrowed it down, I say, Hallelujah. There have to be at least twenty thousand comments. Most I had to skip over, but I have about six hundred names.
“You should’ve skipped to the end. Someone counted for you and posted it. There’s thirteen hundred and nine Joshua James wanting you to choose them. But like I said, I have the answer.”
Isabella clicked to the search bar and typed the words: Joshua James live feed. She turned on the volume.
Geneva squinted. “Hold on. Is that JJ-LUV?”
Isabella’s head bobbed. “Yes. His real name is Joshua James. He says he wants to rescue you from all the other men.”
Geneva put a hand on her hips. “Mr. Bottoms in My Face wants to rescue me?”
“Just hear him out.” Isabella pressed play.
JJ-LUV’s face filled her computer screen.
Geneva slid into the chair. “He cut his hair,” she murmured, then watched the video until the end.
Isabella clapped her hands. “Girl, isn’t that crazy? It’s surreal. You have to say yes. You know he’s legit, and like he said, he’d be rescuing you from the weirdos.”
Geneva tapped her chin. “I don’t know. My father would jump from the pulpit to the ceiling if I go with JJ-LUV. He’s already not keen on my doing this, and this would only heighten his concerns.”
“Your father trusts you, and don’t act like you don’t have your own mind. Because you sure enough didn’t listen when your father told you not to marry Josh.”
Geneva shook a finger at her friend. “I can’t stand you. But I love you for keeping it real with me.” She shook her head and returned to their original discussion. “Why would JJ-LUV do this? What would be his motive?”
“Maybe he wants a vacation like he said. He’s been on tour. Let’s talk about it while we eat. Court ran late and I’m hungry.”
They made their way back to the dining area.
“How do we know this isn’t a publicity stunt?” Geneva asked. She reached for the Styrofoam container, opened it and sniffed. The fries smelled good.
Isabella opened her salad and went to get a fork from the kitchen. “You think too much. I was worried about the crazies, but now that concern isn’t an issue. So for once in your life, don’t plan. Just jump. Too many people go through life never taking a risk or taking a chance. We play it safe in life and love and end up later on with the ‘what ifs’ and ‘should haves.’” She returned and sat across from Geneva. “That reminds me, I’ve been meaning to get that Steve Harvey book, Jump. Have you read it?”
Geneva shook her head. “No. I don’t need to. Posting that ad was the most spontaneous thing I’ve ever done in my life. I like order and planning. I don’t believe in jumping into anything without considering all the costs.”
Isabella tilted her head. “And look where that got you. Jilted less than two weeks before your nuptials.”
Geneva gasped. “Whoa…” Tears filled her eyes and her heart constricted.
“I’m sorry,” Isabella said, patting Geneva’s hand. “That was harsh. There’s such a thing as being too harsh. What I meant is, you planned everything and look how that turned out.” Her brown eyes were soft and pleading. “I want you to relax a little. You can’t let how your mother died deter you. You’ve got to live in the moment. Planning your life step-by-step won’t stop life from happening. Boulders ransack our lives sometimes for no logical reason or explanation.”
“And you think accepting JJ-LUV’s offer is living in the moment?”
Geneva acknowledged she wasn’t a risk-taker. Her mother had been one, and her spontaneity led to her death. Margaret had decided to go NASCAR driving during their family trip to Florida. The professional driver took Margaret on several laps around the course when she shouted, “I’m taking the wheel.” Margaret accelerated and lost control of the vehicle around the bend. The car flipped, killing both of its occupants.
When she thought about it, Geneva could still hear her own screams and wails replay in her memory. But it was her father’s reaction that had the most significant impact on her life.
Geneva had never seen her dad cry before that day, and he had cried for weeks. She vowed never to make him grieve like that again. She remembered him saying one day, “Why didn’t I tell her not to take the wheel?”
“Going with JJ-LUV is your version of taking a skydive,” Isabella said, dragging Geneva’s thoughts back to the conversation.
Geneva bit on a chicken tender. “I’ll have to watch that video again.”
Isabella nodded. “Go with him. Prove Josh wrong. I hated how he always called you Ms. Goodie Goodie.” She bunched her fists. “His mouth must be hanging open over your ad and now this video. Going with JJ-LUV to Jamaica would be the ultimate way to stick it to him. I’m surprised he hasn’t texted you with all the attention you’ve been getting.”
Geneva shook her head. “He hasn’t.” A part of her felt a pinch in her heart that he had dismissed her so easily. However, another part wondered if Josh hadn’t been a safe choice. Her heart hadn’t suffered as much as her pride.
“I’m not surprised. Josh only cares about Josh.” Isabella’s eyes narrowed.
“He probably thinks I won’t go through with it.”
“You’d better,” Isabella said. “I’m loving this side of you.”
Geneva’s eyebrows rose. “Maybe there’s more of my mother in me than I thought.”
“If your mother were here, she’d be egging you on.” Isabella chuckled.
“She would.” But she’s not here…
“Play the video again. I think he’s sincere and hot.” Isabella fanned herself.
“I know he’s fine. I’m cautious, not blind,” Geneva said. “I’ve always had a secret crush on JJ-LUV.”
“Get out. I didn’t know that. Here’s your perfect opportunity to meet him.”
“JJ-LUV’s a perfect ten. My eyes delight in looking at his perfect body. From afar. He stands against everything I value. He treats women like objects. They’re always throwing themselves at him. He’s always drunk, and flipping someone off. JJ-LUV’s talented, but I find his behavior appalling.”
“I’m only saying to meet him, not marry him.”
Geneva giggled and tossed a fry at Isabella’s head. “I know that. This is a harmless trip, but I’m worried about the negativity that follows him. I’m not trying to end up in one of those news rags.” She shuddered. “Or worse, what if he brings an entourage?” Her peaceful vacation would become a nightmare.
“Don’t believe the hype. Many of the young men who come through my courts have a tough persona. But they just look tough. Underneath the unkempt hair and baggy pants are young men who want the same thing we all want – to be treated with dignity and respect. They are scared little boys forced to become men too soon. JJ-LUV reminds me of them. Call me stupid, but I think he cut his hair for a reason. He’s getting older, and there’s nothing but gold-diggers going after him.” She shrugged. “This is way to
o much for deliberation for me. Watch the video again and let your heart decide.”
“I will.”
After Isabella left, Geneva watched it several times. She focused on Joshua’s face. By the third viewing, she had started to think of him as Joshua. Something about his eyes spoke to her heart. She pulled up recent photos and studied him. Yep. His eyes held sadness, and could it be, loneliness? It could also be the effects of a skillful photographer capturing him at the right moment. She chewed on her bottom lip and looked at more photos.
JJ-LUV had so many people around him, but that might be all noise. What if he needed a real friend?
Geneva yawned. She had to go to bed or she would never be able to deal with her students. She read a couple verses and then prayed. She would never admit it to Isabella, but she found herself praying for Joshua “JJ-LUV” James before going to bed. When she woke up the next morning, Geneva knew what to do.
Ch. 11
She said yes. Geneva Samson had gone Live to tell him she accepted his offer.
Joshua’s heart warmed. He pressed the play button to listen to her voice. Her voice sounded like honey. Her voice is like honey, soothing my soul…
He pressed play again.
Geneva licked her lips. His stomach tightened. Oh, why did she do that for thousands to see?
“Hi, Joshua.” Her soft voice sounded hesitant.
He paused and then replayed her greeting. She had called him Joshua. Not JJ-LUV, but Joshua. “That’s what’s up.” He pressed play.
“Hi, Joshua. This is Geneva Samson. I’m honored you volunteered. If your offer isn’t a prank, I’d love to take you up on it.” She lowered her eyes and then faced the camera. Joshua liked the challenge in her eyes. “See you Saturday.” She brushed her hair out of her face and signed off.
He found himself smiling. Joshua didn’t understand how Geneva’s simple movements enthralled him. He had never felt an emotional connection on this level, especially toward someone he had never met.
He had to meet her.
Joshua closed his laptop.
Saturday was two days away, but it seemed too far. Their social media conversation had created a buzz. The press would be outside her church from dawn Saturday morning until he arrived. Joshua stood. He could avoid the fuss if he went to see her today. He knew where she worked. If he met her outside the school, it would give them private time together.
Joshua looked at his watch. Flights from Atlanta to Columbus, Ohio were only one hour long. He rushed to shower and get dressed. Joshua’s heart raced. He couldn’t wait to meet Geneva in person.
Joshua took the first available flight to Ohio, flying first class. He kept his cap low and hid behind a pair of huge sunglasses. He stowed his weekend bag under the seat after pulling out his Bible. Joshua had stuffed it in his bag at the last minute. If he was going to stay for church that Saturday, he had to go packing.
Geneva had posted, Jeremiah 29:11, I am hopeful to her social media page. He wanted to know what the verse said. He used the thumb index to locate the scripture.
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
Joshua repeated it twice. What this meant to him was that God has good thoughts for all His people. His eyes narrowed. But what was the expected end? The end of the world? He shook his head. “I’ll ask her about it.”
He put the Bible away and doodled on a napkin. Lyrics teased at him. Like sleet, the words wouldn’t settle to form into something viable. He needed to get Club Five their song. Joshua hoped the words would fall like snow when met Geneva in person.
Once he arrived in Ohio, Joshua sent a quick text to Sean and Mongoose letting them know he was off the grid.
Sean replied. You in Ohio?
Joshua stopped to answer, causing a passenger to bump into him. He apologized and pushed his cap lower. She gave him the middle finger and kept moving.
Yes. Came early.
I knew it. Good luck.
Joshua grinned at the fist pump Emojis. His stomach grumbled. Joshua hailed a cab.
“Where to?” the twenty-something driver said.
“Take me to Thurman’s Café.”
He loved their Thurmandelphia Subs, made with beef and lamb. Joshua usually got his sub with everything but the mushrooms. His mouth watered in anticipation.
The cabbie pulled up in front.
“Keep the meter running,” Joshua said before hopping out. “Do you want anything?”
The cabbie’s eyes widened. “Uhm. Yes, get me a burger and a coke.”
Joshua went and ordered their meal to go. Once he returned, Joshua handed the driver his takeout. “I’m staying at the Westin.”
“Thank you,” the cabbie said, pulling off the curb. “You know, you’re nothing like the magazines say. You’re pretty cool.”
Joshua smiled. “I didn’t know you recognized me.”
“I’ve driven quite a few celebrities in my time,” the cabbie said. “I know when they want to be incognito. Just go around like a regular person.”
Joshua chuckled. “Make sure you give me your card. I could use a driver the next few days.”
The cabbie’s head bobbed, and he handed a card to Joshua. “I’m discreet, and I have a luxury vehicle. I can take you where you need to go in style.”
Joshua looked at the card before pocketing it. “That’s great, Anthony. I’ll need you in about three hours.” He yawned. “I have to get a nap, and then I’ll be ready to go.”
Anthony grinned. “I think I know where you’re going. A certain lady is going to be very surprised.”
Joshua nodded. “I hope so.”
Ch. 12
Geneva blinked. Was she seeing right? Was Joshua James, known to the world as JJ-LUV, standing outside her elementary school parking lot?
She almost dropped her bags. How long had he been waiting? It was after five so the parking lot was deserted. She had her usual clutter of student papers she always took home but never graded.
Geneva held on tight to the straps. Her laptop was inside. There was no way she could explain to her principal that she had broken a $1,500 piece of equipment because of shock.
Her first thought was, Joshua is one fine man. Her eyes scanned his dark jeans and leather jacket. Her second was, Thank goodness my hair and outfit are on point.
He leaned against a Navigator holding flowers and his signature come-get-me grin. The final scene of Pretty Woman skittered through her thoughts. The only thing missing was him standing through the sunroof and asking her, “What happens after she rescues him?”
“Geneva?”
His deep, melodious voice made her stomach do the jitterbug. She took a step.
“Hi.” She pushed the word through her lungs. Geneva’s body remained frozen in position. Her smile was so wide she felt her lips tremble.
He walked toward her, and she placed her bags on the ground.
Joshua entered her personal space. “I’m Joshua.” He grinned, and she got her first look at a perfect set of teeth.
A waft of sea waves or something dreamy hit her nose. Her stomach clenched.
He extended his hand.
Her right eyebrow lifted. Geneva commanded her brow to stay down. Its arch was an indication of the interest she could never hide. It lowered. Good.
“Pleased to meet you.” His low rumble made both her eyebrows shoot upward.
Geneva’s breathing escalated. She was sure he could hear her beating heart. She lifted a shaky hand and placed it in his.
Their hands connected.
His larger hand cupped hers.
She was gloveless and welcomed the warmth. His grip was firm and strong. Geneva looked at their joined hands and felt a jolt. A scorching heat filled with sensual promise and…comfort. It was as if she held the hand of someone she knew.
They fit.
Then she looked at him.
His eyes were pinned on hers.
She commanded her mouth to cooperate. “Good to meet you.” Come on, girl. You’re a master at public speaking. Start talking.
He pulled his hand away.
Geneva busied herself by picking up her bags. She knew her face had to be red. She hadn’t wanted to let go of his hand. Geneva trudged to her car, opened the door and hoisted her stuff inside. She felt his presence behind her.
“So, this is what it feels like,” Joshua said. His breath came out in puffs because of the cold.
“What do you mean?” she asked.
“Instant chemistry.”
Her shoulders lifted. He had felt it, too. “So I wasn’t the only one? That’s good to know.” She smiled.
His eyes dropped to her mouth and darkened. “Your smile is like heaven. And if this is heaven, I could stay here all night,” he said.
Geneva squinted. Was that a pick-up line? But Joshua looked serious. She fanned herself. “Thank you, I guess.” She slid her glance away, needing to break contact. “What a line.”
Joshua touched her shoulder. “That was no line. Just the truth.”
Geneva tilted her head. “Why are you here?”
He stepped back, pulling on his jacket collar.
That was awkward. “Not that I’m not glad to see you.” She stepped forward. “I thought you were coming Saturday.”
“I couldn’t wait. Your video captivated me. I had to meet you. This might sound weird, but I felt a connection and wanted to see if I would feel it in person. I’m not the most patient of men. Saturday seemed far away.” He handed her the flowers. She drew in their scent.
Geneva thought of her prayer for him and nodded. She understood an inexplicable connection that spanned the miles. “I’m flattered.” She shivered. The temperature was dropping.
He must have noticed for he said, “I’m sorry I have you out here in the cold. Can we go somewhere and talk?”
In old-school-talk, that meant was she up for a make-out session. Geneva gave him a pointed stare. “Sure. As long as it’s just talking.”
The Resolution Page 5