Unlikely Venture (The Venture Series Book 1)

by Luciani, Kristen

  “Yes.” He cracked a smile at her crudeness. “I know I fucked up. And I’m going to make it right. I promise.”

  “You better. Now get moving.”

  He clicked off the phone in a daze, replaying the conversation in his head. She’s sick because of me, because of the stress I caused her. I’m such a fucking idiot. Will she even talk to me? I need to see her, to tell her how much I love her and that I’ll do anything to win her back.

  James jumped out of his seat as the flight attendant announced the doors were closing. “Wait!”

  She snapped her head toward him. “Sir, you need to sit down and buckle your seat belt.”

  “Please, I need to get off the plane.”

  She frowned at him. “Sir, that isn’t possible. We’re getting ready to taxi.”

  “Look, I need to get to my girlfriend. I thought she was in New York but I just got a call and she—”

  Another flight attendant walked over. “What’s going on?”

  “I really need to get off. Please. It’s urgent. I have to get to—”

  The second attendant held up a hand. “Hold it, you can’t just get off now. There are regulations. Do you want to sit in a holding cell for the next three hours explaining to a roomful of police officers why you so desperately needed to get off this plane?”

  James eyed the door frantically. “I know it doesn’t look good but my girlfriend is coming into this airport and she’s sick. Please, you can even have the cops follow me to her gate! They can take me into custody after I see her. I just need to get off this plane. Please.”

  The flight attendants exchanged glances. One of them walked into the cockpit. A minute later, she returned. “Okay sir, airport security will meet you at the gate. They’ll take it from here.”

  “Fine, whatever, I don’t care.” James raced off the plane and skidded to a halt when he came face to face with a threatening police officer.

  “Why don’t you tell me why you’re so anxious to get off this aircraft, sir?”

  James sneaked a look at his watch. “Officer, listen, I’m sorry for causing an issue. It’s just that I was heading to New York to see my girlfriend and I just found out from her roommate that she’s on her way out here and—”

  The officer held up a hand to silence James. “Hold it. If she’s your girlfriend, how come you didn’t know she was on her way? Why’d you have to hear it from her roommate?”

  James took a deep breath and slapped his hands against his legs. “You want to know why? Because I was a complete asshole and I let a stupid misunderstanding come between us. I screwed up the best thing in my life because I was jealous and stubborn.” He held his arms up. “There’s my excuse, happy? I didn’t know she was coming out here because she won’t return any of my calls and I need to see her, to tell her how sorry I am.”

  “You know I’m not supposed to let you just walk away, right? I have to file a report since you violated FAA rules.”

  James rolled his eyes. “You know what? I’ll gladly write the report for you! Just please let me see my girlfriend. Take me to prison after I get a chance to tell her how much I love her. Sound like a plan?”

  The officer stepped closer, eyes narrowed.

  The clock was ticking and James didn’t want to risk missing Jessica. “Please, let me see her. I promise I’ll go with you right afterward.”

  The officer sighed. “I don’t get paid enough to deal with this crap. What gate number?”

  “G6, American Airlines from New York.”

  The officer folded his arms and glowered at James. “Fine, let’s go. If you’re making any of this up, I think you know what your immediate future holds.”

  James nodded and managed a smile. “I know. Thank you.”

  The officer nudged him to one of the security vehicles. “Hop in. It’ll be quicker this way.”

  Ten minutes later, James jumped off the security cart before the officer applied the brake. He ran to the agent behind the desk at Gate G6. “Excuse me, is the flight from New York on time?”

  The agent looked at the screen and tapped a few keys. “Yes, looks like they’re descending now.”

  Three EMTs ran up to the gate with two more police officers in tow. One of them approached the ticket agent. “We had a call for a passenger on board the flight from New York, girl in her mid-twenties with multiple sclerosis that requires immediate medical attention. What’s the flight status?”

  James snapped his head to look at the agent, his heart thundering in his chest. Jesus Christ, did something happen to Jessica on the flight? “Do you have a name? I’m waiting for my girlfriend to arrive, she has MS. Is she—”

  The agent shook her head. “I’m afraid I don’t have any other information than that.”

  “What kind of emergency? Is she—is she okay? Is she…” He swallowed hard. “Conscious?”

  “Sir, I’m sorry. I really don’t know anything else.” She flashed him a sympathetic look. “You’ll have to wait until the plane lands.”

  James backed away from the desk. Fear clenched his gut.

  The officer who escorted him to the gate walked over. “Sir, are you alright? You don’t look well.”

  James shook his head. “The EMTs…they’re here for my girlfriend.” He ran a hand through his hair and sank to the floor. What could have happened? Why can’t anyone tell me anything? Jess, please, please be okay. Please, I need you so badly. I’ll never walk away again.

  Minutes dragged until the plane landed. The EMTs rushed on board as soon as it pulled into the terminal. James paced around the gate, his heart gripped with panic. When she finally appeared in a wheelchair, he ran over and wrapped his arms around her.

  “Jess.” His voice cracked and he stroked the back of her head. “My God, what happened?”

  Jessica’s eyes widened. “James,” she whispered. Tears streamed down her face and she choked back a sob. “James, I’m so scared. I had another—”

  “I know, baby. I’m so sorry. About everything.” He kissed her forehead and looked at the EMTs. “Do you know what’s wrong?”

  One of the EMTs looked down at his chart. “Considering her medical history we need to get her to the hospital so they can run some tests to figure out what brought this on.”

  “Okay.” He looked at Jessica. The fear in her eyes broke his heart.

  He hugged her close. “Jess, these guys are going to take you to the hospital.”

  “James, please don’t leave me.”

  He shot an imploring look at the police officer. “Officer, I—”

  The officer held up his hand. “I can see you’re obviously not a terrorist. Now get out of here before I come to my senses to preserve my job.”

  “Thank you, officer.” James clutched Jessica’s hands in his and knelt next to her. “Don’t be scared, baby. I’m staying with you. I promise I’ll never leave you again.”

  JESSICA LAY BACK on the pillow, exhausted from being pricked by about a million and one needles. She moaned as she shifted on the bed. Jesus, my head is pounding. Is the doctor ever going to find out what the hell is wrong with me?

  A middle-aged nurse walked in, flashing a bright smile at Jessica. She handed her a cup. “Here’s some water, sweetie. And I’ve got some Motrin for you. We need to bring down that fever.” She checked the IV and handed Jessica another cup with two small pills.

  Jessica struggled to sit up. “Thanks. Do you know when the doctor will be in?” She swallowed the pills and handed the cup back to the nurse.

  The nurse hummed as she checked Jessica’s chart. “He should be in shortly.” She popped a thermometer into Jessica’s mouth. “Hmm, still a bit high. Why don’t you close your eyes for a bit? Try to rest, sweetie.”

  Jessica leaned back and sighed. “I know I should, but I just can’t. Too much on my mind right now, you know? I mean, aside from trying not to hurl again.”

  The nurse nodded. “I’m sure. But you’re in good hands. We’re going to take care of you, so don
’t you fret.”

  “Thanks.” Jessica pointed to the doorway. “Um, there’s a guy who came in with me. Do you know if—”

  “Do I know if he’s been anxiously pacing the floors of the waiting room since you were brought in? That would be a giant yes. Boyfriend?”

  Jessica gave a half-shrug. With everything that happened since she arrived, they hadn’t gotten a chance to talk. Why was he at the airport? And how did he even know I was coming?

  To her shock, James was there when they wheeled her off the plane and he didn’t leave her side until the nurses forced him to stay in the waiting room when they arrived at the hospital. But she was petrified, and just having him near was more comforting than anything else she could imagine at that moment.

  “Should I send him in? Are you up to it?” The nurse flashed a knowing smile. “Maybe your handsome friend can keep you company while you wait for the doctor? I should probably tell you that he’s been asking for an update at least every fifteen minutes since you got here. Seems like he thinks of you as way more than just a friend.” The nurse shrugged. “For what it’s worth.”

  Jessica sipped the water. “It’s pretty complicated. We were dating but then…” She picked at the blanket. “We broke up not too long ago. I’m not sure why he’s even here.”

  “Well, based on what I see, he’s not about to let you walk away a second time.”

  Jessica stifled a snort. Ha! How ironic is that.

  The nurse picked up the empty cup, a thoughtful look on her face. “Relationships can be tricky. There are always bumps in the road. How you both deal with those bumps becomes the most important thing. You have to figure out if the relationship is strong enough where you can put issues in the past and grow as a couple. I don’t know what happened between you two, but he’s here with you now, worried sick. That’s got to count for something, right?”

  Jessica nodded with a small smile. “Maybe so. You’re a pretty wise woman.”

  “It’s part of my job. I look out for the physical and emotional wellbeing of my patients.”

  “Would you mind sending him back?” Jessica flashed a sheepish smile. “And thanks for the advice.”

  The nurse winked. “You’ve got it. Let me know if you need anything else, sweetie.”

  Jessica settled back against the pillow and sighed. She missed James so much. Listening to his voicemails over the past weeks was heartbreaking but she forced herself to ignore his attempts at reconciliation. She needed to protect herself. But he’s here to watch over you now, even after you blew him off. He’s not going away quietly. She recalled the nurse’s words. That’s got to count for something, right?

  A minute later, James appeared in the doorway. He crossed the room and bent over to kiss her softly on the mouth. “Jess, thank God you’re okay. I was so worried about you.”

  Her heart soared as his mouth grazed hers. Oh Jesus, I’ve missed him so much.

  “James, why are you here?”

  “Jess, I’m so sorry. I know I messed everything up between us. I had a chance to handle things like an adult and I failed miserably. I was stubborn and unfair, a complete ass. I made a huge mistake letting you go.” He took her hand and put it to his soft lips, making her pulse race all over again. “I’m here to prove to you that I’m in this. I won’t let you get away again.”

  A giggle escaped her lips and she motioned to the wires and machines surrounding her. “Ah, yeah, I can’t see myself going anywhere for a while. So, are you going to tell me how you knew I was coming out here?”

  James flashed a sheepish smile. “I was on a flight headed to New York to see you. I called all of your numbers and left multiple messages. Lisa got the one at your apartment. She called me and told me everything. Threatened me if I ever hurt you again.” He looked into her eyes, his voice cracking. “Jess, I…I miss you so much. I’m so in love with you. Please give us another chance.”

  “I love you, too,” she whispered. “Thank you for being here.”

  His eyes widened and the corners of his lips turned up into a hopeful smile. “So…what do you think? Will you give us another shot?”

  She smiled through her tears. “I don’t know, it’s a pretty big risk. Lisa doesn’t believe in empty threats. If she tells you she’s going to do something, you can take it to the bank. Are you prepared to handle that?”

  He grinned. “I’ve got nothing to be nervous about.” His blue eyes turned serious and he squeezed her hand. “Can we get past this? Will you forgive me for being a complete jerkoff? Because I want you. Forever. No matter what.” He leaned closer. “How can I convince you? Do I need to shower you with Starburst jelly beans?”

  Jessica’s face relaxed into a smile and she winked. “Well, as long as they’re part of the offer…”

  James grinned and pulled a bag out of his jacket. “I knew that would work.” He cupped her face. “I love you, Jess.” He leaned in gently, his lips so gentle and warm on hers. She shivered against him, the delicious sensation traveling throughout her limbs. Oh yes, this is truly worth the risk.

  “Ahem.”

  They jumped apart, startled by the unexpected intrusion.

  An older, gray-haired doctor strode in with a grin on his face. “Hello, folks. Sorry for the interruption.”

  Jessica cleared her throat. “Excuse us, Doctor, we were just…”

  The doctor held a hand up. “No need for explanations. I was young once.” He walked to the bed and picked up Jessica’s chart. “I’m Dr. Chandrasekaran.” He smiled. “Dr. C for short.”

  “Nice to meet you, Doc, although I wish it was under different circumstances. Can you tell me anything about what happened earlier?” Jessica bit her nail. “To say I’m a little bugged out would be an enormous understatement.”

  Dr. C nodded. “Understandable.” He flipped through the pages and looked up. “Well, we’ve confirmed your current diagnosis, however, what you experienced on the plane was nothing more than a side effect from an injection. We got information from your doctor in New York that you had your first dose yesterday, is that correct?”

  Jessica nodded. “Yes.”

  Dr. C smiled. “It’s a rare side effect, though a pretty troublesome one if you aren’t prepared for it. The medication brings out intense flu-like symptoms that tend to last a couple of weeks. It can be scary, especially in light of the symptoms you’re dealing with day to day.”

  Jessica breathed a sigh of relief. “So I haven’t gotten worse?”

  Dr. C shook his head. “Everything is stable as of your latest test results. This was just a minor blip. Of course, we’ll have to monitor you for the rest of the day to see how the injection continues to affect you. You may require a different medication down the road, but time will tell.”

  James squeezed her hand and looked at the doctor. “So, what can she do in the meantime?”

  “Well, since you’re only out here temporarily for business, I’d recommend getting a referral from your current doctor. You can manage the flu symptoms with over the counter medication and with any luck they’ll fade sooner than later. You’ll be back to normal in no time.” He smiled. “The nurse will be in a bit later to check your vitals. Don’t expect to get any sleep tonight because someone will be in every hour to monitor you.”

  “Thanks, Doc. I really appreciate it.” Jessica smiled at James as the doctor left the room. “Thank God.”

  “Jess, I don’t really like the idea of you being by yourself out here.” James looked at her, his eyes darkening. “I mean, what happens if you have another episode or if you get sick again and need help—”

  Jessica shot him a coy look and fluttered her eyelashes. “So what should we do about that? Are you volunteering for the job, James?”

  He stroked her cheek and smiled. “Yeah,” he whispered. “I thought I already told you that, but I’ll say it again and as often as you need to hear it. It’s you and me. Forever.”

  “ARE YOU SURE Chris isn’t mad that you’re coming to New Yo
rk with me?” Jessica snuggled closer to James as they walked hand in hand toward Philz Coffee, warm afternoon sunshine illuminating the tree-lined street.

  James kissed the top of her head. “I’m sure he’ll get over it. You’re much more important.”

  Jessica clasped her hands together. “I’m really excited for you to meet my parents and Haley.”

  “Are you sure they’re going to be okay with you moving out here? Or will they hate me for stealing you away?”

  “That’s always a possibility. Maybe I should just stay in New York to keep them happy.”

  “No way, gorgeous.” He tightened his grip around her waist. “Don’t worry. I can be pretty charming. I’ll get them to come around. Hey, did you hear back from the realtor yet?”

  “Yep, I move in two weeks.” She stopped and pulled on his hand. “Hey, you know this is a pretty big leap I’m taking with you.”

  “It’s only the beginning.” He drew her close and kissed her so deeply she thought she just might swoon right in front of the café.

  When they reluctantly pulled apart, she shook her head, breathless. “See, that’s how I know I made the right choice.”

  “There’s plenty more where that came from.”

  She giggled and tugged him along. “Come on, I’m desperate for a latte. Oh, I need to pop into the office to pick up some paperwork before we head to the airport. Justin said he’s going to call so we can review the new clients I signed.”

  The door to the café swung open and Jessica jumped back with an involuntary gasp. Oh my God. Seriously? This cannot be happening.

  Paul sauntered out of the café, regarding them with his signature penetrating gaze. If he was surprised, his face didn’t give it away in the least. A smug smile tugged at his lips as he looked from Jessica to James for what seemed like the longest minute of her life. She squirmed under his cold stare, not knowing what to say. James gripped her hand and managed a tight smile.

  Paul took a sip of his coffee. “Callahan, I’m glad to see you finally got your shit together, in all regards.” With a sidelong glance at Jessica, he gave a curt nod. “Nice to see you both.”