Whiskey and Honey: Can a forbidden fling be real love? (The Empire Records Series Book 1)

by Heather Lauren

  I pull at the tape which frees her hands and feet, and we watch Marcus and Roger take on the two bodyguards that brought me in. As predicted, the wimpy pretty boy hits the ground hard and fast when he runs up to Marcus and is taken down in one punch. Finally, I stand with Lyla in my arms and look for the old man. He must be hiding under the desk, but I promised Roger I would get her out as fast as possible and leave the dirty work for him to clean up. I keep her solidly pressed against me under my arm and pull the pistol I have tucked in my boot. We move to the wall and swiftly make it out of the office as shots are fired once again. “We can’t just leave Marcus in there.”

  She stops in the hallway and looks up at me in concern. My beautiful woman has bruises on her cheek, chin, and a black eye blooming, and I know it could have been so much worse. I take her face, no longer able to keep my lips from hers and kiss her like I almost lost her because I easily could have. I step back and pull the pistol from my boot and hand it to her. She smiles a sad smile at me, and without another word we make it back to the office.

  We creep up quietly, each of us going to the wall on either side of the door to peer in. The office looks destroyed, and Marcus is pulling Roger over his shoulder, and all three men lay bloody on the floor around them. I rush to help Marcus as Lyla covers us at the doorway. The old man and the guy who was dying in the other chair seem to be gone. We make it out of the house and into Roger’s SUV, but he’s in bad shape. As soon as our doors are closed, another black SUV with dark tinted windows speeds out of the driveway, screeching on the cement as it takes the corner hard. Lyla jumps in the front seat and shifts into drive.

  “Lyla, what are you doing? We can’t go after them; Roger has to go to the hospital!” Marcus shouts at her, but I get it.

  She won’t feel safe until the old man is brought down. She knows as well as I do, he won’t stop coming after her.

  “I can’t go to the hospital. Get my phone for me and keep going, Lyla,” Roger says, holding a bleeding bullet wound on his hip. Marcus pulls it out of the cupholder and hands it to him. He scrolls for a while and hands it back to Marcus. “Say the words ‘code red watermelon’ and tell Lyla the address. Lyla, get close enough to read the plates but not too close. Let’s get some help before we all get arrested,” Roger says, panting, and I grab the towel that’s on the floorboard and twist back to press it on his side. He’s lying in the back seat, and Marcus has the man’s head in his lap, looking lost and angry that he can’t do more for a guy he just met. He does as instructed, and Roger takes the phone, dials a number, and hands it to me. I take it and put it to my ear.

  “Ready and waiting,” a man on the line says. I tell him the code words while Lyla gets right up on the other SUV, and I read the man the plates, describe it, and tell him the street we’re on. We turn into traffic and keep the guy updated. Roger finally says it’s enough information and we need to head to the address location in the text messages. I end the call and look. Only one of two messages and one unread. I plug it into the GPS, and Lyla turns off and follows the directions, groaning and gritting her teeth. I know this is for the best, and she would never let Roger die, but it’s hard for her not to fight.

  We drive back out of the city, and Roger seems to be getting worse; the towel is completely red, and the man’s face is ghost-white. Finally, we make it to the address and pile out. An older man and woman come running with a stretcher. Marcus and I help get Roger on and into the backyard where they have a small shack that looks dirty on the outside but is perfectly sterile white on the inside. She instructs us to pull the SUV into the garage we parked in front of and take the red van inside and forget this address. We look to Roger, and he nods and salutes a goodbye that seems final.

  “I’ll never forget this favor, my friend,” I say, shaking his hand and leaving with Lyla tucked under my arm and Marcus at my side.

  29

  Lyla

  Making it back to town and to the safety of our house, all three of us together seems surreal. The drive is quiet except the sounds of the shitty van Marcus is driving. Cole and I are in the far back seat, staring at each other like we can’t believe any of that just happened. I gently move his chin to see the damage, but he just gives me that panty-melting grin. He rubs mine with the back of his rough and bloody knuckles, and I wince, not nearly as tough as he is. Even my teeth hurt, and I have a pounding headache. He pulls me close, and I snuggle in for the ride.

  Finally, Marcus parks in Cole’s spot in the garage, and I ask where his truck is.

  “It’s at the fake job site,” he says, exhausted.

  The sun is coming up as we close the garage door and make it inside. As tired as we all are, we find ourselves gathering at the island counter. Marcus takes me in his arms, in a monster bear hug, and I break down. I cry for the friend I’ve missed so much; I cry because I’ve been so scared; I cry for the pain in my face and because I want this to be over.

  Finally, my sobs slow down, and he sits back down with an earnest look on his face.

  “Listen, I’ve taken time to deal with the traumatic experience I walked into…and I mean the scene in the kitchen that’s burned into my brain forever and haunts my dreams, not the fucked-up shit we just took care of tonight.”

  I laugh, a little in shock of how casual he’s being about the violence he just went through, and wipe at the tears still running down my face. He smiles and I lean back into Cole who buries his face into my neck and wraps his arms around me, engulfing me with his massive arms.

  “I get it now though. The two of you aren’t what I assumed you were to each other. I should have listened when you both kept reaching out, but I was too busy distracting myself from it with work. When I listened to your voicemail, Lyla, I was ready to fucking kill Cole. Even though I know better, I thought he was somehow hurting you. I’m sorry I became such a dick, man. Lyla, I just feel so protective of you and for someone else to step in, I guess made me feel like you didn’t need me anymore. I can see now I was mistaken. After tonight, I will officially feel like both of you crazy kids still need me.”

  He grins at us like he’s glad he was wrong and is happy for us, so of course I start crying again, and he hugs me, covering Cole’s arms, and it’s like a big family hug. Of forgiveness, of love, and of family that’s always here for each other.

  Before it gets too awkward, the guys both pull back. We talk about what happened, and I make some buckwheat pancakes. It has never felt so good to cook. Not overpriced dishes for stuck-up Chicago critics but for my family. For two men who love me and who I could not live without.

  “Alright, pussies. I’ve had about enough of this mushy bonding shit; I’m going upstairs to my own bed and crashing for at least the day. I better not wake up to the sounds of you fucking or so help me I will come barge in and literally throw a bucket of water on you both.”

  He gives us both a side-eye, and we can’t help but laugh. He hugs us both and heads upstairs, and Cole and I clean up the kitchen a little and head to our room. We take a quick shower to wash off the blood and dirt, and I’m overwhelmed with how grateful I feel to be in Cole’s clean t-shirt. Lying in bed, warm and comfortable, feels weird. Just hours ago, I thought I might never see this bed again, never lie next to this man I love, and then I remember. As much as I feel it, I’ve been too scared to tell him I love him.

  I’m too tired and I’ve officially been through too much to hold back though. I look deep into his eyes as we get comfortable in each other’s arms, and as soon as I clear my throat, I hear my words before I say them.

  “I love you,” Cole says, brushing my hair back and cupping my cheek.

  I laugh sob; seriously, I don’t know what that was that came out of my mouth, but before I can overthink anything, I tell him, “I love you, Cole. I love you so much.”

  A small tear runs down my face, but this time it’s because I’m happy. I am so happy to be home and in his arms right now my heart hurts. I see his big smile right before our lips meet, and
this kiss is officially the greatest kiss of my entire life.

  30

  Cole

  I sleep restlessly, waking to check on Lyla every hour. Finally, around five I get up. I kiss her, the love of my life, on the forehead, and as gently as possible pull my arm from under her head, impressed I managed not to wake her, though she must be exhausted from everything she’s been through. I grab my cell phone off the charger and shoot a text out to Jack. He held down all the different sites I have working around the city, and the man deserves a raise, one I will gladly be giving him.

  Downstairs, I find Marcus and notice two large suitcases by the door. “Dude, what the fuck?”

  I look at him like he’s lost his fucking mind. We literally just got back together. I mean made up and talked out our differences. Fuck, I feel like a pussy now. He starts laughing as he hands me a cup of coffee.

  “Here, it’s Irish enjoy.” Then he turns back to the coffee pot. I take a sip of the hot, mostly whiskey coffee and take a seat. He’s cooking something that smells great.

  “I needed carbs and alcohol, dude. I don’t know when I’ll get over last night. That’s not why my bags are packed though. I’m good with everything as long as we got Lyla, and I’m truly happy for you both, but the truth is I don’t think I could stomach walking in on you two again and before you say anything…” He stops me with my mouth still hanging open, and we hear Lyla coming down the stairs. I look and see the most beautiful sight. Hair in every direction, black mascara circling her eyes like a racoon, and dressed in sweatpants and my t-shirt. I smile and let her take my spot at the island. She kisses my cheek, and I go after more coffee.

  “Yeah, like I was telling your adoring man here. I’m moving out and letting you lovebirds have your nest for all the freaky kitchen and wherever sex you want,” Marcus says as he puts a plate of spaghetti in front of her.

  “What? You’re moving out? You can’t move out; we just made up.”

  Her reaction makes me laugh. Funny how I thought the exact words she says.

  “Lyla, you and Cole deserve to have your own place, and it’s his anyway. Plus, I would get at least twenty more minutes of sleep if I just moved into the apartments above the studio full time. Charlie’s already living in one, and I’m about to sign a band that will fill out the other apartments. They need a lot of managing, and I’ll be in the recording studio with them almost full time anyway. It just makes sense, babe. I’m not mad or pouting anymore; I promise,” he says and seems to leave my girl speechless.

  “But…” We both laugh at her cute pouty face. “What do you mean it’s Cole’s anyway?”

  “Well, he meant I own the building, my love,” I say easily and sip my coffee. I notice the smile that stretches on Marcus’ face then enjoy the sight of her mouth wide open. “Didn’t I mention that?”

  “No. You definitely didn’t mention you own an entire apartment building.”

  “This is only one of many, sweetheart,” Marcus says, laughing hysterically, and Lyla is just staring at me dumbfounded. “Your lover boy here owns most of San Diego at this point,” he tells her as I shrug and continue to drink my spiked coffee.

  We eat and drink and tell jokes, and Marcus continues to tell her all about my money that I never thought was a big deal. I don’t think she does either, but it still surprises her. I love that about her. I love everything about her. A couple hours later I get a call from Roger. I immediately pick up and put it on speaker. “Roger, brother, how the hell are you?”

  “Good, my friend, thank you. Wanted you to know your truck is back in your garage, and you don’t have to worry about that van. Also, and more importantly, turn the local news on, right now.”

  Lyla walks over and grabs the remote, powering on the large TV we can easily see from the kitchen. We listen to the news reporter.

  “In tonight’s spotlight story, a mob boss has been taken to jail on several counts including money laundering, embezzlement, illegal international trading, drug charges, and murder. Seventy-five-year-old Anthony Moretti, a man notorious for staying just out of reach of the FBI, has finally been arrested. Local enforcement officers were on the scene to help take in the man, as well as his driver who will be charged with similar charges. Most surprising is San Diego’s own Darren Henry is also in police custody. The famous local bachelor was found unconscious at his family’s estate with two of Moretti’s men and a large amount of cocaine, the exact amount has not yet been released. Moretti has also been linked to crimes in Chicago and was found with the body of America’s most wanted Howard Stapleton. More on his story tonight at ten.”

  “Thought your girl would appreciate that bit of news. Have a great night, Cole.” Without a word from me he’s gone. Lyla turns the TV off and smiles from ear to ear.

  “Feel better, baby?” I ask, and she nods.

  “I won’t lie. I didn’t sleep much even though I was dead tired, but I had nightmares when I did nod off, so I feel a hell of a lot better knowing those men are going away.”

  “Same here.”

  “Same,” Marcus says and stands. “So, do you two think you’d be okay if I went over to the studio? I need more sleep, but I’m still crazy busy and have edits to do as soon as possible.”

  I get a nod from Lyla.

  “Yeah, man, we understand and appreciate it. Next family dinner, though, we are totally making out in front of you,” I joke and shake his hand as I slap him on the back, embracing for a long feelings-packed bro hug.

  Lyla gets up, and they hug for a long while. I would be jealous if it were anyone else, but I’m so fucking happy they have their friendship back. My shoulders feel lighter, and I know it’s been weighing on me.

  He leaves and without a word I take my woman upstairs. I undress her without a word and pull her into the steaming hot shower. I take her head in my hands and help the water wash the makeup from under her eyes. She holds my hands there gently as she closes her eyes. I kiss her forehead and hold her for several long minutes. When the water starts to run cold, we go to bed relieved, and sleep without nightmares haunting us. Instead, we’re back in our bubble, safe, just the two of us, in love, and all is right with the world.

  31

  Lyla

  The heavy beats of Nickelback fill the bathroom as I finish getting ready. If Cole were in here, he would make me change it and call them names, but I can’t help but to swing my hips, feeling like a crazy badass stripper. I should probably mention that to him. I bet he would start listening to them a lot more. I laugh out loud as Cole comes in.

  “What’s so funny, hot stuff?”

  I laugh more at the nickname and shrug, keeping my secret for later when we have more time to put my moves to work.

  Tonight, we’re celebrating the official opening of Kraze, my now good friend, Chef Dane Carmichael’s grand opening of what’s sure to be San Diego’s next top restaurant. Cole has organized a big fancy family dinner to celebrate with everyone. He kisses me and simultaneously turns off my music.

  “You about ready to go? I told the gang we would be there at six.”

  “Yep, ready to roll, my love.”

  I slap his fine, firm ass and turn on my heel, heading for the door. He scoops me up and makes me squeal in laughter.

  It’s been a little over a month since the Moretti chaos, and we’ve healed and managed to find a semblance of normal. The police never found out we were involved, and Roger let us know Anthony Moretti and Darren Henry were not able to pay their way out of the charges and will both be serving a lifetime sentence for the murders of Howard and Cathy.

  On an even happier note, Marcus did move to the studio but having the apartment to ourselves has made Cole and I practically nudists. It’s fun and crazy, and I’ve never felt so safe, loved, and free to be myself.

  When we get to Kraze, Cole pulls the iron door open for me, and I pick up my long light-blue dress and step inside.

  “You look beautiful by the way,” he says, bending down and kissing my shoul
der as we wait for the hostess.

  “Thank you.” I grin up at him and just before his lips touch mine, I hear her clear her throat. I reluctantly turn from him and face Lisa, her name tag says.

  “Hello. Do you have a reservation this evening?”

  “Yes, Under Waterson, party of ten.”

  “Oh yes, our first VIP diners. Right this way,” she says with a big grin for Cole and ushers us to the back of the restaurant and up the stairs in a narrow staircase. Once we reach the top, my mouth drops. The double doors open to a rooftop lounge, with cascading lights, lots of flowers and green plants, a private bar, one large table, and a huge wraparound couch. Stepping forward, we walk up to the bar and I notice the soft music playing is “All My Loving” by The Beatles, and I smile knowingly up at Cole as he pulls out the bar stool for me, then I get that kiss. Hot and searing and over much too quickly. We order whiskey, mine with lots of rocks, and wait for everyone to start arriving.

  Charlie is the first to join us at the bar, and she gives us both a hug and picks up the drink menu.

  “What is a Black Velvet?” she asks the bartender who’s been too busy checking her out to register that she asked him something. He’s still drying the same glass when she looks up to him.

  “I’m sorry, what?” the poor guy stutters, and I’m mortified to watch Charlie hide behind the menu and mumble, “Never mind.”

  The guy clears his throat and moves down the long bar even though we are the only people out here.

  “What the hell was that?” I ask her, dumbfounded.

  “What was what?”

  “Give me this,” I say, taking the menu she’s trying to hide behind and stare at her expectantly, but she just stares back.

  “Charlie, that guy was totally into you. Why hide?” I raise an eyebrow but know exactly why.