by Jessica Page
I was distracted, so didn't see Marty move but I watched as Kendall dove in front of me. I heard a gunshot and I turned to find Marty with a weapon pointed at me. I didn't hesitate. I pulled the trigger, shooting him in the head. I fell to the ground beside Kendall, as she lay there motionless as blood poured out of the fresh bullet wound in her rib cage. She'd shielded me. She'd taken a bullet for me.
The three remaining men had their guns drawn. “Drop your weapons and call for help!” I screamed, as they hesitated unsure of what to do, “It's all over. You'll all be facing much more severe charges if you kill us all,” I continued, pulling my shirt up over my head. They lowered their guns and one of them pulled his cell phone out. I tried to apply as much pressure as I could to her wound, but there was so much blood and her breathing was ragged. She was in trouble.
“Why did you do that?” I asked as a steady stream of tears fell down my cheeks.
“I couldn't let them kill you,” she coughed, blood dripping down the side of her lip.
“Don't talk! Please just be still,” I begged, trying to stay strong, but I was unable to stop the pained cry that escaped my lips.
“You wouldn't have had the chance to redeem yourself, to prove to yourself that you're a good man. To me that's worth dying for. Don't worry, it doesn't hurt.”
She smiled up at me her eyes struggling to stay open. I sobbed louder and harder than I ever thought possible as the pain in my chest ripped through me. It was unlike anything I'd ever felt before. This couldn't be the last time I held her. This couldn't be the last time I talked to her, “Please hang on, Kendall. Please hang on. I need you. I'm in love with you, Kendall and I need you to be okay.”
“It's about time you finally realized it,” she teased, coughing again in between shallow breaths. I watched as her eyes slowly shut, and I was overcome with fear.
“Kendall, please hold on,” I pleaded again, but she lost consciousness and I felt the world shatter around me. “Kendall! Kendall! Please, Kendall don't do this,” I cried, “I do love you! Please…” I reached at her neck, desperate to feel a pulse. It was there but it was weak. “Kendall stay with me. Where the hell is that ambulance?” I screamed aloud to anyone who was around me. “Kendall, I need you.”
Epilogue
Six Months Later…
* R N S *
“So what kind of deal are they working out for you?” I asked James, taking a sip of my coffee. He smiled causing the scars on his face to deepen. I asked him once why he didn't get them removed by a plastic surgeon, I couldn't imagine wanting a reminder of my torture on my face, but he told me that he wanted them there to remind him of everything he'd lost. He wanted them to remind him of Dominique, he said it was the least he could do all considered.
“Well my lawyers were able to plead out the patronization charge with probation. My testimony against the others will be key, given they want to make an example of them all. With everything that went on, even with a lack evidence, the prostitution patronage charge will be minor.”
“Why did you start collecting on everyone? What made you decide to do it?” I asked out of curiosity. Truth was, I'd wanted to know the answer to this for a while now.
“Listen, I'm no saint. I've done my fair share of law breaking, but I never blurred the lines in my role. Believe it or not, I went into politics to make a difference. I believed in the value and responsibility of this job as the voice of American citizens. Perhaps it's hypocritical, but I don't see patronage as a comparable offense to things like drug charges, assaults, bribery and fraud. Some might disagree, but in my opinion, consensual sex on my own time is my business. Don't get me wrong, I've influenced or encouraged certain decisions or laws to go my way, but I've never removed someone's free will to make their decisions. I've never crossed that line into corruption. When someone starts using their position to corrupt the system and take advantage of those who are vulnerable, it's something I can't stand by for.
He stopped a moment as though he was collecting himself. “Those poor women…” he said, his voice breaking a little, “…may they rest in peace, told Dom about some pillow talk they'd had, and I was disgusted. When it started I didn't know how deep all this would go, I didn't realize how much I would uncover. I couldn't believe people I thought were friends were capable of these things. At first I wasn't as careful, and I made inquiries out in the open. But when Damien attacked Kendall to get back at me, it was the final straw. I couldn't let his boss – a very corrupt man – potentially be the leader of this nation. Senator MacFarland found out about my past and tried to blackmail me. I thought I could handle it so I recklessly threatened him back saying he wasn't the only one who knew secrets and that my past was nothing in comparison to what I'd found about him and his friends. Word spreads fast.”
He paused thoughtfully, clasping his hand on the table. “They started threatening me more and more and Dom got scared. She wanted me to get rid of the information, but I hesitated; I wanted do it at the right time. My hope was to force their resignations in intervals. I thought this was the most strategic option to get justice while not ruining the entire party's reputation for years to come. But I waited too long and now they're all dead because of it. That's the thing about all this that will haunt me for the rest of my life. The fact that I waited.”
“You were trying to be honorable. You couldn't have known it would turn out this way,” I offered, reaching over to his shoulder and gently squeezing it. It wasn't a big gesture, but I wanted him to know I was there for him.
“Honorable or not, it doesn't change that a lot was lost in all this.”
“Yes, but not all was lost, some things were gained,” I replied, referencing our newfound relationship. We'd really gotten close the last few months and I was grateful to have my brother back.
“Yes, you're right. Look for the positives, as Dom would say.” He smiled, pouring himself some more coffee.
“That book deal will likely be a nice addition to your portfolio. At least you don't have to write it from a jail cell,” I joked, attempting to lighten the mood.
“True. Although I always figured I would end up in jail someday anyway,” he stated getting a curious look from me in response. “I would have likely tried to take the fall for Dom if it came down to it, or ruined my reputation trying,” James offered taking a bite of his scrambled eggs.
“I have to tell you…I don't get you. Why? Why would you have done that for her? She manipulated you into being an escort and I know she was scared but she tried to sell the information you gathered. She's a part of the reason why this all happened. I don't get it.”
“Is that what you think?” he asked, stunned, placing his fork down on his plate. “You think Dominique manipulated me into being an escort? That's where you're wrong, Kane. Whether you believe or not, she saved me. I know I had to sacrifice because of the choice I made, but she gave me that choice and she saved me when I was incredibly lost. I tried to do the right thing, but I got her mixed up in my quest for truth, and she's dead because of me,” he paused, his brown eyes filled with emotion. “I would take the blame for her because I loved her and she loved me. I know you don't approve of the life we lived, but it doesn't change that she was the love of my life. I would have done anything for her and she's gone because of me.”
Dominique was the love of his life? I thought of the love of my life, Kendall, and how I'd felt when she took that bullet for me. Suddenly it became quite clear. I barely knew my brother, and there were a lot of things about him that I didn't understand, but I had no right to judge him and the love they'd shared. I had no right to judge her because I didn't know her. That's what the love of my life had taught me. She taught me that I judged people too quickly and I didn't give them a chance because of it. I knew better now though, she'd taught me to be better. “I'm sorry, James. I wasn't thinking. I didn't realize…” I paused trying to find the right words. “I didn't realize how important she was to you. I didn't even consider the loss you had to
live with. I'm sorry. Kendall would be so mad at me for being such a judgmental asshole.”
“Yes, she would.” He laughed, swiping a stray tear from his cheek. “Dominique was a lot like Kendall you know. Too beautiful and smart for their own good, they worked for everything they had and they never bowed down to anyone. Dominique was more of rebel and risk taker though, but I loved that about her. I think that's part of the reason why I was so drawn to Kendall, I know it sounds ridiculous, but they give off an almost larger than life sort of appeal.”
“Well, I didn't know Dominique, but if Kendall was anything like her, she must have been an amazing woman because Kendal is the best person I know,” I smiled, watching a warm grin settled on his lips as well.
“Agreed. Dom was that for me.”
“Who was what for you?” a soft familiar voice asked, instantly causing my whole body to feel as though it was being awakened from a slumber. She sat down in the chair next to me and smiled, her beautiful grey eyes watching me as though they could see into my soul as only Kendall could. I'd almost lost her, but I thanked my lucky stars every day that she was still with me. I was the luckiest man in the world to have the most beautiful, intelligent, brave and strong woman I knew still here with me.
James cast her a warm smile. I'd finally come to terms with the fact that they were in fact just friends. I'd been so foolish and stubborn before, not accepting it. They did have a rather unconventional story and friendship, but now it was a part of our story, it connected us all. I was incredibly thankful to have them both. They were my family.
“We were talking about Dominique,” James replied, standing up to give her a big hug.
“She was amazing. She's greatly missed.”
“Yes she is,” he replied as she stole a sip of my coffee. “So, James, it's good news about the probation, huh? And your book deal? You're going to be a busy man.”
“Yeah, it's a relief for sure.”
“Thank you for lying about my involvement in everything. For telling them I was an old family friend you were helping and that I was targeted for no reason. I owe you.”
“No, you don't owe me anything, they did have the wrong girl. You had nothing to do with all that. Besides, you were technically retired the moment we stepped out of that party, so it served no purpose to mention the escort part.” He laughed. “They would have nothing to charge you with, so I just told a little white lie to save you some hassle.”
“Technically true, but thank you nonetheless,” Kendall said, giving his hand a gentle squeeze.
“And don't worry, I won't be using any real names in the book either,” James offered, getting two relieved smiles in return. “You've both had enough excitement because of me.”
“I can't argue with you there,” I replied as I watched Kendall steal a piece of toast from my plate.
“How are you doing, James?” she asked, getting a confused look from him.
“I'm fine.”
“No I'm serious. How are you really? Are you okay?”
“I'm a survivor, Kendall, same as you are. Don't worry about me, I'll be okay.”
She nodded, and we could both see he meant it.
Silence followed as James scratched his chin thoughtfully, examining her.
“What are you looking at?” she laughed uneasily, an adorable blush settling onto her cheeks.
“I've got to say…this short hair you've been rocking is really growing on me. It really suits you,” James complimented, completely changing the topic. James was always good at controlling the conversation when needed.
“Thanks.” She laughed mindlessly, running her hand through her hair. “I'll likely grow it out again, but I have to admit I like it too. I do miss the blonde every so often though.”
“Yeah it was a stroke of genius for her to change it so drastically,” I offered, shoving a piece of bacon in my mouth.
I watched as her mouth fell open with shock, “I knew it! So you did think it was a good idea? You said it stupid!”
“I lied,” I admitted, laughing at the outrage on her face.
“Kane you're unbelievable.”
“I know,” I offered cockily, causing her to break out in laughter.
“God, you two are so sweet it is sickening. Don't you have a flight to catch to paradise or something?” James asked, retrieving his buzzing cell phone from his pocket.
“Yeah, I just have a few things to finish up for the website launch at the end of the month before our flight tonight. Then I'm off to have some fun in the sun in Barbados with my sexy SEAL before he goes back on duty for a few weeks,” she said, casting me a smile, which instantly had my heart racing and my body buzzing with alertness.
“I'm proud of you, Kendall. You've been through a lot, but you didn't let it stop you. You've worked hard and you deserve this little pre-launch vacation,” James stated, standing up and pulling out bills from his pocket, tossing them on the table. Listen, I do have to get going though, I have a meeting with a prospective new client.”
“Client for what?” I asked, confused as to what kind of business he was referring to.
“Oh, didn't you hear?” Kendall said, her eyebrows arched with amusement. “James, our soon-to-be-writer is also going to be working as a political consultant for aspiring politicians.”
“You've got to be kidding me. I thought for sure you were done with politics given everything that happened,” I replied as my jaw dropped open, practically scrapping the top of the table.
“Well you thought wrong. I know politics better than anyone. I'm the new hot ticket in town. They all want me because the good politicians think I'm noble and the bad politicians hate me, but think I have some tricks of the trade that I can share. So frankly, business is good either way,” James laughed, walking over to me, opening his arms wide for an embrace. “You two have fun in paradise and be sure to take care of her. Although something tells me she may take care of you just as much, if not more.”
“You bet I do,” Kendall laughed, now being pulled into James' arms for a tight hug. He waved one last time and walked away from the table, exiting the restaurant.
“I can't wait to be on the beach with you, babe, sipping on cocktails,” I said to her as she stood up and leaned onto me, pressing a tender kiss on my lips that sent a wave of heat flashing through me, melting me to my core like only she could.
“Me either, babe, but I'll be the one rocking the bikini and the bullet-hole scar,” she joked, her face hovering next to mine, tapping the site of her freshly healed wound. I pulled her onto my lap and protectively wrapped my arms around her. That scar would always be a reminder of the sacrifice she'd made to save my life. She'd almost died and I would never forget it.
“You're still the most gorgeous woman to walk the face of the planet,” I replied, kissing the tip of her nose and then her lips. “Listen, I was thinking you could also be rocking something else on the beach.”
“What are you talking about, Kane?” she asked, her brows knitted together in suspicion. “I know you. You're up to something.”
“Well it's just that…I was thinking you could be rocking a ridiculously sexy bikini with a new rock on a certain special finger.”
“What are you talking about?” she asked, her hands absentmindedly covering her mouth.
“I was going to wait until we got to Barbados, but considering I've been walking around with this thing in my wallet for months now… I think I'd rather finally see it on your finger and watch as the tropical sunlight hits it for the first time. I selfishly would love to have a few more days of you calling me your fiancé before I get shipped off to who knows where with a bunch of dudes.” I helped her off my lap and knelt down on one knee in front of her, “Kendall Daley, you are the most amazing woman that I've ever had the privilege of knowing, let alone of loving. Will you do me the great honor of being my partner, my better half in all ways, and make me the luckiest man in the world for being able to call you my wife?”
“Are you su
re about this?” she asked in a matter-of-fact sort way that sucked the romance out of the moment. “If we do this it means that I'm letting you in completely. It means that I trust you completely and I expect the same from you. If we do this it means that I'm giving you my heart and soul.”
“I know, and I've never been surer of anything in my life.”
“I hope you know what you're getting yourself into,” she laughed, launching her body into my arms. “Of course I will!” she replied wiping the tears off her cheeks before her lips claimed mine. My whole body felt warm with happiness. “You know there are probably going to be a lot more difficult days than happy ones,” she stated seriously, her intense gaze focused on mine. Those eyes have always managed to see right through me. She could see things I didn't even know were there. I couldn't hide from her and for the first time in my life I didn't want to.
“There will be, but it's nothing we can't handle. You've saved me in more ways than one, and as long as I have you to remind me of the good in this life, the rough days won't last forever. So officially yay or nay?”
“I love you, Kane. Definitely yay to it all,” she smiled as she entwined her fingers in mine. I knew that we both finally felt like we were home for the first time in our lives.
* R N S *
Dear reader,
Thank you for taking time to read Misguided Target. If you enjoyed it, please consider telling your friends or posting a short review. Word of mouth is an author’s best friend and much appreciated.
Table of Contents
Dedication
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13