Rebuilding Stone (The Stone Brother Series Book 2)

by Saint John, T.

  “Maddox, please move,” Kerrigan says, looking past my shoulder.

  “I can’t, Kerrigan. I feel this need to be near you. Kerrigan, I’m sorry about that night. If I could take it back, believe me I would.” Again, unable to help myself, I run my thumb down her cheek. I can feel her shiver. That shiver stirs something inside of me. She is still affected by me.

  “Maddox, I forgive you. Honestly, I do. But please, I need to go.” It’s another shot to the heart. I watch her scanning the hallway and then a look of fear crosses her face.

  “Kerrigan, what’s wrong?” I ask.

  “Maddox, you see MY girl!” Aaron states behind me, but I know he is staking claim.

  “Yes, I see her,” I say, turning around.

  “Kerrigan, honey, could you go fetch my coat?” I look at Kerrigan who looks embarrassed, but she leaves.

  “What’s your problem, Aaron?”

  “You wanting what’s mine is the problem.” Shit. He’s right. As much as I hate it, she is his.

  “You got her. Why does her talking to someone else bother you so much?” I ask.

  “It doesn’t bother me. Kerrigan has proven over and over that she is mine.”

  “What does that mean?” I ask confused.

  “It means keep your fucking hands off my girl. Otherwise, you’ll pay and so will she.” That does it. The boiling feelings I’ve had, run through me. I shove Aaron into the bathroom and back him up against the wall, firmly placing a hand on his shoulder. I get in his face.

  “I don’t know what your little threat means, but if you do anything to hurt Kerrigan, whether it be emotionally, mentally or physically, I will fuck you up. Don’t ever fucking threaten her again.”

  “So I was right. You want my girl.”

  “Oh, I want her alright. Even though I don’t respect you or like you, I do respect her and I won’t ruin anything for her. I don’t know what the fuck she sees in you, you’re nothing but a piece of shit.” I shove him back into the wall one more time. I know I’m losing it, so when I head out of the hallway; I just keep going straight to the exit. I need to get to my car and leave.

  Kerrigan

  The car ride home from the ball is eerily silent. I’m scared and I don’t know why. When we get home, I want to sit Aaron down and let him know that I’m leaving. I wanted to help him, to be there for him, but I can’t keep living like this.

  After we arrive, the first thing Aaron does is pour himself a glass of Jack Daniels. The bottle has been sitting there for two weeks and he hasn’t drunk from it. I know right now he is pissed. Pissed at me for something I couldn’t control. I admit when Maddox ran his thumb down my cheek; I felt a jolt of electricity. It was tender and beautiful. I know Maddox is sorry, and I wasn’t lying when I said I'd forgiven him. We weren’t dating and I knew he liked a lot of women. I’ve realized that I was different to him because I’ve witnessed the way he treats other women. He sat at that bar and apologized for a year straight.

  “I’m telling you right now, Kerrigan. Do not go near Maddox Stone again,” Aaron says with menace.

  “I was leaving the bathroom, Aaron. So was he.”

  “I mean it, Kerrigan.”

  “Look, I was going to talk to you after the ball tonight anyway. This isn’t working for me Aaron. Our relationship is toxic. You only see me as arm candy.”

  “That’s because that’s what you are, Kerrigan. You’re hot, but you work in a fucking bar,” Aaron spits out.

  “You’re right I do, because I’m saving to go to college for an interior design degree. You know this. I don’t have anyone to help me, so I’ve had to save on my own. Bartending has the best tips.”

  “Whatever. All you’ll ever be to anyone is arm candy and a good lay,” Aaron says. It hurts; that’s what I have felt my entire life. Pretty, but nothing else. I don’t mind staying single for the rest of my life if that means I’m free from Aaron.

  “Look, I’m just going to pack up and be on my way,” I reply. Aaron storms toward me and shoves me against the wall.

  “I’ll kill Maddox Stone if you leave,” he shouts.

  “Why? Maddox has nothing to do with this. Your constant alarming behavior does,” I tell him.

  “I’ll kill him, and you’ll be to blame.”

  What do I do now? I can’t stay. I can’t leave. I don’t doubt Aaron would kill him. I see the evil in his eyes.

  “Aaron, you’re acting crazy. You want someone to stay with you even though they don’t love you and will never love you?” I ask.

  “Love?” Aaron laughs. “I don’t love you. All you are to me is a lay and bragging rights. Get over yourself, girl.”

  “FUCK YOU!” I scream. I am so tired of his shit. I start to walk away when the first blow to the back of the head comes.

  Chapter 3

  Kerrigan

  Isolation, desperation, hopelessness, and constant fear. This is my life. Aaron made sure I isolated myself from everyone. I quit work, I stopped talking to friends, and I’ve given up hope.

  How did I get here? Thinking back several months, after the last run in at the bar with Molly and Aaron, I guess I should say it was more about Aaron and Maddox. Aaron made me quit. Promised me he would get the help he needs. I didn’t believe him when he said it. Then, after the Police Officers' Ball and his threat toward Maddox, staying seemed like my only option. I know without a shadow of a doubt that he would kill Maddox. I’ve wanted to reach out to him, but I didn’t want to be responsible for Maddox’s death. I realize I’m responsible for my own fate, though. Aaron will kill me. Today, I have a doctor’s appointment to follow up for my third broken bone. I plan to call Molly because I know I am a dead girl walking. I’m hoping if I tell her, she won't let Aaron get away with it.

  Maddox

  I am going to kill Aaron. For the first time in months, I saw Kerrigan. A ghost of Kerrigan. My suspicions are confirmed. Seeing her at the deli, so scared, so desperate, killed me. I hate myself right now for not being there to shield her. Actually, no, I hate myself because I had all but pushed her into the arms of Aaron. Even looking as broken as she did, she still took my breath away. I wanted so badly to ease her pain, to bear this burden for her. She hates me and she has every right to. Now, I have to form a plan.

  I’ve left a message asking the Police Chief to call me. We all know the brothers in blue code, but to me, that’s bullshit. Yes, I would give my life for any of my brothers or sisters on the force, but I will not turn a blind eye to a cop who is breaking the law. In my gut, I’ve known that he has been hurting Kerrigan. I just couldn’t prove it. Right now, all I know is, if Aaron walks because of his connections, I will put a bullet through his brain after I break each of his fingers.

  Kerrigan seems to think Aaron knows her exact moves. At first, I thought it was paranoia, but as I watched her get into the cab, I felt like she was telling the truth. I didn’t see anyone, but I felt it. After I left, I started to worry because I left Molly alone. Later I called to apologize. Of course, Molly forgave me. She is just what my brothers and I needed in our life. She is a smartass and puts us all in our place when we need it. I’m happy for Noah. I knew he’d end up with Molly. We went to Evan’s the other day to watch a Bears game. Instead, I found myself watching Noah and his son, Landon. My nephew has a foul temper. It was comical watching Noah warm the breast milk. He was cursing the water for not warming fast enough. Evan laid into him with the jokes. I picked Landon up to try and comfort him. Talk about weird. I’ve never loved anyone the way I love Landon. No expectations, just pure love. Noah says it all the time; he is a lucky man. I agree. I’m envious of the life he has.

  Kerrigan

  Later that week, I pack up what I can. I don’t take everything because I know Aaron will suspect something when he comes home. I have no idea where I am going or what I am doing. I wish I could leave right this moment. Aaron is working the night shift so I’m home alone. I can’t leave now, though, because he does drive-byes. The last thing I
need is for him to catch me in the process. I will wait until tomorrow when he is asleep. I decide to head to bed because I need to be rested. When my feet hit the ground tomorrow, I am running. Running for my life. I will not stop. Where my feet will take me, I don’t know. I do know it won’t be here. For now, that’s what I cling to. A small shred of hope.

  I wake up when the sun shines through the curtains. It’s Freedom Day, but when I go to move my arm, I can’t. What the hell? I try sitting up but fail. Oh my GOD! Aaron has handcuffed me to the bed. How did he find out? A sinking feeling hits my stomach. It’s Freedom Day all right. Eternity freedom. Oddly, in this moment, I can think clearly. Whatever happens today, it’s my last day with the devil.

  “Want to tell me what your plan is, Kerrigan?” Aaron slurs. He reeks of alcohol. I decide in this moment I’m not playing nice today. I'm no longer afraid.

  “My plan is that today is our last day together. I should’ve left you months ago.” I think my self-control confuses him. Aaron has not heard back talk in months.

  “Where do you think you’re going to go? No one wants you, remember?”

  “I don’t need anyone to want me, Aaron. I don’t need you. I do have friends. Molly and Maddox will help me.”

  “We will see about that. I guess you don’t care if Maddox’s blood is on your hands.” I turn my head. “Look at me you stupid bitch. LOOK!” Aaron grabs my chin and forces my face upward. He will not control me any longer. I close my eyes. It’s probably a mistake, but I have to for what self-respect I have left. When I die, Aaron will not be the image I see. It will be Maddox. Yes, Maddox hurt me in another way. He’s also remorseful. At first, I didn’t believe it, but as time went on and the apologies continued, I realized Maddox was torturing himself. Time and time again, I’ve wanted to reach out to him, but I couldn’t. Maddox has the perfect life, the perfect family. I know now that Aaron is all threats. I’m sure he won’t touch Maddox because Maddox is fast, smart, and on to Aaron.

  “You thinking about Maddox again, HUH?”

  “Yes,” and with that my day with the devil begins.

  Maddox

  I just got out of a meeting with Chief Garcia. He’s a good guy who follows the law. He asked that he talk to Aaron on his own. I trust that he will make the right decision here. Chief Garcia isn’t motivated by politics; he is motivated to uphold the law. Still, he wants to get Aaron’s side before making any decisions. He isn’t going to wait either. He asked other officers to bring him in for questioning. When I walked out of the meeting, though, it took everything in me not to find out where Aaron lives and beat the shit out of him.

  I just walked through my front door when I glance at my cell and it starts ringing. It’s Molly. She is relentless. The pestering little sister.

  "Hey, my nephew baby momma. What's up?"

  "Oh God, Maddox. Help her." Molly is in hysterics.

  "Molly, calm down. Help who?"

  "It's Kerrigan."

  "What about her?"

  "Just get to the ER now. I will explain later. I want to go back to help."

  "Molly, fucking tell me now." I don’t know why I'm forcing her to tell me. I already know.

  "I think Aaron beat the shit out of her. She looks bad. She is unconscious and...." I throw my phone against the wall and it shatters into pieces.

  I pick up the closest thing and throw it at the mirror. My blood is boiling. Kerrigan better be okay. I grab my wallet, keys, and head out. Dammit. Why didn’t I force her to come with me? She would be safe right now. How bad is she hurt? My heart starts racing on the drive over. My mind is filled with violent thoughts toward Aaron, fear for Kerrigan, and self hate for not saving the woman I love. I am not the right man for Kerrigan. I can’t offer her anything except for what I’m about to deliver to Aaron.

  I pull up to the hospital and quickly get out off my car. As I approach the doors, I take a deep breath. I can hear Aaron talking to Molly. I want to rush over, but I need to hear what he says. I know Molly is safe because I can get to Aaron in a second if I need to.

  "Well, well. Just the person I'm looking for," Aaron is slurring his words, drunk as shit.

  "I think the police are looking for you."

  "Tell me something, Molly. Do you know I can hide evidence? It is my job."

  "You can't hide your witness. You can't hide what you did to her! You nearly killed her! You bastard!" Molly screams out.

  "Kerrigan? She's not going to say anything. She knows better than that. I only taught her a lesson. She tried to leave me. She was stupid, thinking that I would allow that. She should have known better."

  That’s what I needed. I’m happy I got his confession quickly. I want Molly out of here. I rush over, not trying to hide my approach. Aaron turns around at the perfect time allowing me to land a punch to his jaw and a couple to his kidneys. This isn’t the legal way to handle this, but right now, I don’t give a flying fuck. Aaron drops to his knees.

  “Tell me, fucker. Do you deserve this?” I spit out.

  "What are you talking about? Deserve what? I didn't lay a hand on the bitch," Aaron groans out.

  My time’s up with him as Officers Jenson and Potter walk up.

  "Aaron. We need to take you to the station. We've got some questions," Potter says.

  “I hope you get what's coming to you. I hope you rot in jail, you sick psychopath!" Molly screams at him.

  "Feisty. I like that, Molly. I've never paid you back for breaking my nose. I'll collect on that later. For now, I'll head down to the station. Don't worry slut, I'll be out before long. I’ve got friends in high places, after all. I'll be seeing you soon."

  Again, my blood starts to boil. I put my nose an inch from his. "Are you threatening my sister-in-law in front of me, man?"

  "Nope. It's not a threat, just a friendly reminder."

  "Molly, go inside. Now. Call Evan and tell him about Kerrigan. She's going to need a lawyer."

  "Okay. Be careful, Maddox."

  I want to scream at her. I love my sister-in-law, but she is slow to listen. She does walk off though.

  When I arrive at the police station, I head toward the interrogation rooms. I know I won’t be allowed in. I want to hear what the dick is saying. I knock on the door and Officer Jenson answers.

  “Stone, what are you doing?” Jenson asks.

  “I’m here to listen. That’s it. I promise.”

  “I can’t let you. You know the victim. You know the witnesses.”

  “Alright, he better not walk out of here tonight. If he does, you find me.” I know my voice is demanding, but I couldn’t care less.

  This night just gets worse. If I can’t be here, there is only one other place to be and that is waiting for Kerrigan to get out of surgery.

  Chapter 4

  Maddox

  After leaving the station, I head straight to the hospital. I’m so overwhelmed with emotions and questions. What happened to her? How much did that bastard hurt her? How much pain did she feel? I think what gets me the most is knowing that she was scared. Kerrigan was alone and scared. It kills me that I couldn’t protect her and that she faced this horrific situation alone.

  When I arrive at the hospital, I head straight to the waiting room. I see that Molly and Lani are holding hands. Noah has his arm wrapped around Molly’s shoulder. Evan is pacing the floor and has his phone to his ear. When Molly sees me, she comes running toward me and throws herself into my arms. I catch her and hold onto her for dear life. Molly is the only woman to ever love me for who I am. Noah follows her over and nods.

  “How is she?” I ask Noah, my voice thick with emotion.

  “Sarah came out about ten minutes ago. The damage is extensive. She’s in a medically induced coma at this point. She will pull through, though. Kerrigan is tough.”

  “Anything else I should know?” I wonder if the fucker raped her. I can’t even utter the words. I know she went to hell and back. I watch as Noah looks down. I already know the answer. He doesn�
�t need to say it.

  “Maddox, you know I can’t legally tell you.”

  Molly steps back and asks, “Maddox, is Aaron going to stay in jail?”

  “I hope so. I don’t know much. They won’t tell me anything. Because I’m so close to the victim, I’m not allowed in on the investigation.”

  We talk for a bit and go to sit down when Noah says, “Evan, why don’t you take the girls and Maddox home. I’ll stay and wait for news.”

  "Shut up, Noah. I am NOT leaving.” If he thinks for one second that I’d leave Kerrigan, he is crazy.

  “Maddox, it could be a while. Go home and get some rest.”

  I love my brother, but I feel like I'm about to lose it. I know he’s just looking out for me, but I hated it as a kid and right now, I hate it even more. “Noah, I’m not leaving. Take your wife, and go home to your son.”

  “Maddox, you can’t do anything right now. Go home, get some rest and I’ll call with any news. I promise.” I’ve had enough of his fatherly advice, so I stand and get in his face. Evan, the fucking mediator, rushes over to stand between us.

  “Maddox, chill out. He's just trying to help,” Evan says in a calm voice. How the fuck can anyone be calm?

  “Evan, you should go, too. You don’t need to be here. I do, I can’t leave her, man. I won't leave her.”

  Lani speaks up, “Maddox, please listen to your brothers. Go home.”

  This sets me off. I can’t help it. I am so sick and tired of people telling me what to do. Everyone needs to leave. I want to deal with all of this alone and without distractions. I tower over Lani by a good foot and some odd inches. I don’t mean to scare her; I just want to get my point across once and for all. “You don’t know me, Lani. Back the fuck off. Now!”