Stark September (Stark Trilogy Book 1)

by C. D. Bradley

  “We had to get you out of there. I felt so bad for you. Your little buddy Holt called us in a panic. He said he drove by and saw you getting arrested. He brought me the keys. He was as worried about you as Ly and I were. Ly knows everyone. He pulled a few strings and arranged for your release.” Paige looked up and smiled confidently like a poker player who knows they hold all the cards.

  “Who is Lysander anyway? He’s very different. Almost, um, magical. How did you meet?”

  “Hmmmm. Oh, my darling, that is a sordid story for another day,” Paige said. She paused and looked out the window. A beautiful smile spread across lush lips. “The story of Lysander. Mmmmmm, oh dear, and the turning of Paige….”

  Kira could see Paige was lost in her own thoughts. “That’s a story I would make time for,” Kira said eagerly.

  “Another day, dear, I promise. We would need a whole night and several bottles of wine for that one. Aren’t you supposed to be on base in about 15 minutes?”

  “Shit! I’d better get ready for work. Listen, I’m not going to bother Stark with this. He’s got so much going on right now. I just can’t. He’s dealing with his dad’s funeral and the business. It’s killing me that I can’t be there for him. Simone would just love to sink her teeth into this.”

  “Oooh, she is the devil in Prada!” Paige hissed at the mention of Simone. “I’d like to get my hands on that scheming tramp. I don’t know what he ever saw in her.” Paige huffed around the kitchen putting mugs away with more force than necessary. “She’ll do anything to get him back to California. And don’t for a second think it’s because she loves him. Oh no! That one’s all about the money.”

  Kira found Paige’s dislike of Simone amusing. That’s one thing they had in common. What was Simone up to? Kira knew that with his father’s passing, the company would go to him. He had made it very clear that he had no intentions of moving back and taking over the family business. While she couldn’t bear the thought of him leaving and moving back to California, if he didn’t reenlist at the end of his term then fraternization wouldn’t be a problem. She hated herself for even thinking it. She could care less about the money, she wanted him. Selfishly, she wanted him with her not in California and not in the Army. But she saw how he was with his guys, how they would do anything for each other. She knew that if he left he would leave part of himself.

  Kira was tired and overwhelmed. She left Paige in the kitchen and went up to shower and get dressed. Her heart ached for Owen. Once in the shower she could finally let all the fear and tension fly. She leaned against the cold tile and let go. Hot water streamed down and washed the tears away. She struggled with a mix of her own fear and frustration and deep sadness for Owen and what he must be going through. Despite being mad as hell, she wanted to be there for him. She hated that he was with Simone. The conniving minx would be all over him, using this time to sink in her fake nails and perfect teeth. No matter how badly she wanted Owen to herself, no matter how much she loved him, she knew that very soon he would have to make a choice. As much as it hurt, she knew she wanted him to choose what was right for him. Suddenly she knew what she had to do.

  CHAPTER 23

  Kira’s plane touched down a in a sea of fog. She shook her head. Wasn’t California supposed to be sunny all the time? The sense of urgency to get to Owen was overwhelming as she waited for the Captain’s instructions to exit the plane. She still couldn’t believe she had pulled it off. She had to forfeit most of her meager savings just for the round-trip ticket, but at least she was here. Getting permission for emergency leave had been tricky but Abbey had proved a miracle worker as usual. She seemed to know everything about everything with the military. She just wanted to be there for him, give him comfort. Stand by his side while he faced this. She kicked herself for being so selfish before and missing the funeral. Three weeks had passed since Stark left for California. In the last week since her incarceration she had barely spoken to him. At first she had been furious about his involvement at the club and embarrassed by her night in jail. Ever since the break in, Kira just wanted to see him. Hold him.

  She silently cursed the airplane staff for being so slow. Finally the announcement came on. She stood and grabbed her small overnight bag from the overhead bin. Kira stood in the slowest moving line on the planet and made her way off the plane. Once in the airport she switched her phone on. Fifteen messages blinked at her. Ugh. 12 From Stark, 1 from Paige and 2 from Abbey. Kira imagined that Stark would be unleashing a posse to hunt her down if she didn’t answer soon. She decided to listen to the messages later. For now she just needed to get there. She made her way out of the airport and hailed a cab. Climbing in, she looked at the information she had printed from the internet. She had to decide if she should try to find the house in Hillsborough or if she should head straight to the office in San Francisco. She opted for the office.

  “Where to ma’am?” the laid back driver asked.

  “Could you take me to 50 Freemont Street? I’m trying to meet a friend. I’m afraid I’m going to be late,” Kira said, rushed and anxious.

  “No worries. I’ll get you there. You sure that’s the right place?” he asked, looking her up and down.

  Kira realized she probably looked more like the help, but she was in too much of a hurry to let him get to her. “Yup, that’s the place. Could we hurry?”

  “Sure thing. Hold on.” His voice was soft and relaxed.

  As they drove, the magnitude of what she was doing began to weigh on her. Perhaps the driver was right. Stark didn’t invite her. She was just assuming he wanted her support. But what if he didn’t? As they drove from San Francisco International Airport into the ritziest part of downtown, it became painfully evident that she didn’t belong here. She stared out at the towering skyscrapers and exquisitely dressed people. This was like no place she had ever been. Kira’s stomach twisted into knots. Her palms sweated as she clutched her meager overnight bag. Maybe he hadn’t asked her to come for a reason. Maybe he never wanted her here after all. She was a part of his other life, not this one. She kept hearing Simone’s silky voice calling her trash and the help. Holy Shit! What was I thinking? I spent all my savings on that stupid plane ticket. It probably isn’t a fraction of what Simone will be wearing. Kira suddenly had the thought that Stark might be embarrassed by her. Surely he wouldn’t want to introduce her to these people. The taxi stopped all too soon.

  “This is it,” said the taxi driver. As he turned, Kira slid down in the back seat. She suddenly felt very small and out of place. “Are you getting out?” He asked after what seemed like a very long time with the meter still running. “I mean it’s your dime, lady, we can sit here all day if you want.”

  “No, no. I, uh. OK. Thank you,” Kira slowly paid the driver and slid out of her seat. The moment the taxi drove away, she wished she could call after him. This has to be your worst idea ever! She looked up at the massive 41-story skyscraper. This was no small family office. 50 Freemont Center was a vivacious and lively spot. Despite being located on a beautiful and busy street, the elegant building stood out. Its breathtaking art deco design made it a timeless classic. People worked in luxurious suites and walked in and out of the large glass entryways. Kira felt suddenly very small and out of place. The fog gave way to a gentle rain. So much for sunny California.

  She was about to turn and walk away when a group of limos rounded the corner. She stepped back out of the way and watched them pass. The rain was starting to soak Kira. She realized that she would have to call Stark to find out where to go. She reached for her phone and started to dial when the first limo slammed on its breaks and came to an abrupt stop. The screeching tires startled Kira and she looked up.

  Stark half climbed, half stumbled out of the stretched vehicle in his haste. He stood in his crisp black suit, not moving for a moment, as if he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. The light breeze played with his dark hair. Kira stood frozen, unsure if he would be happy to see her or not. Stark started walking towa
rd her, then broke into a run, closing the distance between them in seconds. He scooped her up and held her to him spinning from the force.

  “What the hell are you doing here? How did you–?” His words broke off as he held her tightly. “I don’t know how you knew I needed you so much today.” He stood holding her off the ground rocking her back and forth, still trying to grasp that she was really there.

  “I didn’t want you to have to face this alone. You said we could do anything together. I’m sorry it took me so long to remember that,” Kira hugged him back. The smell of his cologne permeated her nose and sent tingles all over her.

  “Well, it’s a good thing he’s not alone then,” Simone hissed. It took her a bit longer to cross the concrete in her stilettos. Her black Alexander McQueen suit flowed elegantly despite the rain.

  Kira suddenly felt like she was on a movie set. How the hell do these people look so perfect?

  “Let’s get in out of the rain, shall we?” Simone said as she walked right past them and under the awning of the building. “So nice to see you again, Captain.” She started to enter the building as the door man held the door wide for her, then stopped and turned back to Kira. “You should have called, dear, we could have picked you up. Oh, that reminds me. Owen, Sweetheart, you left your phone in the bed this morning. I almost bruised myself rolling over on it. You really should be more careful.” She smiled sweetly up at Stark and took the phone out of her purse, handing it over.

  Kira’s blood ran cold. She stiffened, every hair on her neck instantly bristling.

  “Shit, Simone. Do you always have to be such a bitch? Can we please just get through this?” Starks voice was dark and tense. He wrapped his arm through Kira’s and started to lead her into the building.

  Kira’s legs were like Jell-O. She couldn’t step or follow. Were they sleeping together? Or was Simone just yanking her chain? Fuck!

  Stark stopped and looked her in the eyes. “Don’t listen to her, Kira,” he pleaded. “She is just being a bitch. I am so glad you are here. Please. Please come inside with me. I need you. You are my one shining light to get through this.” The desperation in his voice penetrated all her anxiety and defenses. Kira squeezed tightly to his arm and followed him through the glass doors. He led her across a great marble lobby to a bank of immaculate elevators on the opposite wall.

  Simone was right in front of them as they stepped in. “You made it in time for the reading of the will,” she said icily. “That’s convenient.” Simone glared at her through the glass in the elevator mirror. She looked Kira over and wrinkled her nose.

  Kira looked back at Simone’s perfect blond hair parted on the side and pinned back in to a braided bun. Her flawless skin glowed even in the lights of the elevator. The dress suit she wore looked like it had come directly from a runway in Paris. Kira looked at her own reflection. Dark wet waves clung to her face. Her modest navy dress fit well but had faded since she bought it in med school. Her eyes dropped to the floor. The will? Kira had no idea that was happening today. Stark hadn’t said anything about it. She looked up at him puzzled. “I didn’t know. I could wait in the lobby if you would like,” Kira offered to Stark.

  Stark squeezed her hand and tucked her arm in his own. “Are you kidding? What for?” he said. “You just got here and I need someone in there on my side. You are staying with me.” He pulled her a little closer. Simone’s nose wrinkled even further. She looked as if she had just tasted buttermilk for the first time.

  The elevator was smooth and moved quickly to the 22nd floor. “It’s convenient to have your lawyers in your own building,” Stark said giving a wink as the doors opened. They stepped out into the lobby of the law office. Kira was instantly taken by the rich wood grain floors. She looked up at the white semi-circular reception desk. It was narrower at the bottom than the work surface and reminded Kira of the deck of the Star Ship Enterprise. The modern space looked like it was designed for function and class in equal measure. To the right of the desk was a group of plush gray chairs connected by small glass tables. Each table held a short chrome vase with white flowers. Panels of frosted glass made up the wall behind the reception desk Many of the panels had been turned to perpendicular, creating doorways open to a large conference room on the other side. The stunning receptionist looked up and immediately flushed crimson when she saw Owen Stark.

  “Mr. Stark,” she said as she stood quickly, never taking her eyes off of him. “You’re…um, the boardroom is ready for you, sir.” She panted as if out of breath.

  Kira looked at her amused. She was getting used to the effect he had on women. At first it made her nervous. Now it was more of a curiosity. After learning what she had about the Apex Club, she looked at all these women in a different light. She wondered about Simone. Did she know about the Club?

  They were escorted to slate leather chairs around the large conference table. “Would you like something to drink, sir, before Mr. Howard comes in?” the receptionist asked, batting her eyes at Stark.

  “I’m fine. Kira would you like anything?” He turned toward her. Kira could feel his deep eyes burning into her. She certainly couldn’t blame the woman. Kira felt a familiar stirring. Getting lost in those eyes must be similar to using heroine.

  “No, thank you,” Kira managed to say.

  “I would like a glass of water with lemon,” Simone interjected.

  “Owen, my boy! It’s very good to see you.” The warm voice belonged to a handsome man in his early fifties. The touches of salt and pepper in his hair were distinguishing.

  Owen shook the man’s hand before turning towards Kira. “Greg Howard, this is my girlfriend, Kira Riley. She flew out from Colorado just this morning. Kira, this is our family lawyer, Greg Howard.”

  “How do you do, Kira?” Mr. Howard smiled warmly and shook her hand.

  “Well, thank you, Mr. Howard,” Kira responded politely.

  “Just call me Greg.”

  “Isn’t that nice she came all the way out for the will,” Simone chimed in.

  “Simone. Watch it,” Stark warned.

  “Is Rosalea here yet?” Greg asked looking around the room.

  “What’s that little taco eater doing here?” Simone’s eyes flashed with anger. She looked like a cat being backed into a corner.

  “She’s in the will, Simone. She has to be here before we can begin,” Greg said calmly. His smooth voice was reassuring.

  The elevator doors opened and small, middle-aged Hispanic woman exited into the lobby.

  Stark jumped up and walked over to her. He hugged the woman and walked with her into the conference room. “Rosalea, this is Kira!” he announced proudly.

  “Is this her? Mi amour! Oh Owen, she’s lovely. When did you get in? My, you’re thin. Have you eaten?” The Hispanic woman pulled her close and kissed each cheek. Stark smiled his half grin and took the seat beside Kira.

  Owen beamed, proud and happy to have her by his side. “Kira, this is Rosalea. She has been caring for me all my life.”

  It was odd to see Owen Stark in the context of a little boy. But she could see to this woman he would always be her sweet baby.

  Rosalea hugged Kira. As she took the seat beside her, she glared at Simone.

  “I knew you would be a hit with the help,” said Simone. “It’s really best to stick with your own kind. Don’t you think, dear?” Her tone was smug. The words spilled over Kira as if someone had cracked an egg on her head.

  “You could always wait in the lobby,” Stark said sternly to Simone. He grabbed Kira’s hand.

  Simone sat back in the seat mildly defeated for the moment. Kira looked back and forth from Owen to Simone. They must have made a beautiful couple. Kira struggled to see where she fit in his world. Still Stark held firmly to her hand. He looked strained and tired. Her heart ached for him. She knew from experience that what he was going through was immeasurably hard. If nothing else, he needed her and she would be here for him.

  The long conference table was e
mpty save for their four seats at one end. Greg pushed a button and the frosted panels closed. Kira felt so sad for Owen. Simone and Rosalea were the only other family he had. The lawyer began reading the will. His father left the majority of his money to Simone. A house in Malibu and enough to keep her for sometime went to Rosalea. He left instructions for his vehicles to Owen as well as the Aspen house. The will expressed some wishes for a few things that were Owen’s mother’s.

  “That’s it?” Simone shrieked. “What about the house in Hillsborough? What about the company? What about the rest of the money?”

  “Those were never his to leave to anyone,,” the lawyer said calmly. Owen’s father was merely the caretaker. The company, the money, the house in Hillsborough—all belonged to Owen’s mother. When she passed, it went to Owen.”

  “What the fuck are you saying?” Simone was coming unglued. “I have helped build this company into the empire it is today. This is my company!”

  “No, it’s Owen’s company. But you are right about one thing. You have been the face of the company for the last couple of years. Owen, they are going to need to see you as a strong player or you are going to need establish a competent CEO immediately,” Greg Howard directed. “Owen, you and Simone will have to work together to get this figured out. I realize it is a lot to step into, but it looks like you may need to be here for a while.”

  Simone’s usually flawless face was wrinkled as if she was sucking on a lemon. Her eyes shot daggers at Stark. Kira turned to Owen and searched his face for some clue as to how he felt about all this. Was he surprised by what Mr. Howard was saying? What did he think about working with Simone and having to stay in California? The chiseled lines of his face gave nothing away. Simone fidgeted nervously but he remained completely calm.

  They wrapped up the paperwork and Kira followed Owen to the elevators. Once they were alone he dropped his guard, he pressed the thumb and fingers of one hand against his temples and shook his head. Kira suspected he knew about the money already, but having to take control of the company was something he had actively avoided for years. She could also see he wasn’t about to roll over for Simone either. She understood what he meant by someone being on his side. They rode back down without speaking. He squeezed her hand as the doors opened. Game on.