by Iris Bolling
Realizing she had understood everything they said, Victoria laughed and gave Tracy a high five. “All right now, Carolyn Roth has finally met her match.”
When Gavin got Carolyn to himself, he calmly said, “Listen to me very carefully, Carolyn, and look at me when I say this so there will be no misunderstanding here.” Carolyn looked away as he was talking. “Look at me,” Gavin ordered in a no-nonsense tone.
Carolyn turned towards him. “I am announcing my candidacy for governor. I am going to the mansion. You need to decide here and now whether or not you are going with me.”
Carolyn started to say something and Gavin stopped her. “If you decide you are going with me, your pursuit of JD Harrison will cease at this moment. If you do not believe you can control yourself when it comes to him, walk away now.” Carolyn did not like Gavin talking to her in this manner, but she could not afford to aggravate him more than she already had. He may indeed be her only avenue to the mansion. “You are still here,” Gavin affirmed. “Say it, are you with me or not? Before you speak, know that contrary to what you think, I have no problem walking away from you. Now, what will it be?”
“I’m with you,” Carolyn replied.
“Good.” He kissed her forehead. “This subject will not be discussed again,” Gavin acknowledged and kissed her. “Let’s mingle.”
JD, Gavin and Dan spent a good part of the day talking to people—not asking any questions, just meeting people and talking about the neighborhood. Brian began to see one or two of Juan’s people filter in. Just as it began to get dark, the streetlights came on and Juan himself arrived with his entourage. You could feel the change in the mood almost instantly. A few people began to leave, some stayed. Brian appeared out of nowhere and just stood behind JD. “B, nothing happens here,” JD instructed. “This has gone well. Make sure it stays that way.”
Brian followed JD’s request. He made sure his men kept their tempers in check even during one or two incidents where Juan’s people stepped out of line.
But nothing disrupted the day. It was a huge success all around. The residents of the community actually got to enjoy their neighborhood. Mrs. Gonzalez was able to get more people involved with her group. JD got a little more information that might help with the case. Victoria got a story for her paper. Yes, it was a good day. Unfortunately, there were underlying currents flowing through Carolyn and Juan that would cause damage in the future.
♥
James was in the office working that Saturday. He usually got more done on Saturday than during the week. While going through the files on his desk, he came across the report from his investigators. After the incident with Ashley, James wanted to know David Holt’s story. He leaned back in his chair, pulled out the report and began to read.
Holt was a football star at Harmon the year Ashley was a freshman. He had a reputation with the ladies and did not like the word no. David and Karen got together during their freshman year and have been together ever since. While Karen attended another nearby school, David felt he could play. Apparently, Ashley was going out with David his senior year. Ashley got wind of Karen and broke things off with David. David did not take the break-up well and had a few public arguments with Ashley. The story was that Ashley was studying in the 24-hour study room, which was adjacent to the library on campus. David followed her there and tried to have his way with her. Tracy went to meet Ashley and walked in during the act. Tracy got the campus police, but the report was squashed at the request of the head football coach. However, a copy of the report was kept just for the record. From that point on, David had issues with Ashley and Tracy. Apparently, neither Ashley’s brother nor any members of her family were made aware of the incident. Only Tracy knew. James smiled to himself. Those two really stick by each other.
His mind drifted to Tracy; they could have been good together. She had a mind and a determination to succeed that matched his. That was rare. He stood up, went over to the window and could see the festivities taking place across the river in Blackwell. Tracy had a certain innocence about her, a kind of vulnerability that was attractive. James did not have a problem getting women. His problem usually was losing interest in them. He had not met many women who stimulated him mentally. Tracy Washington did. She challenged him at every turn. But now she was with JD Harrison, a young man he truly respected and admired. For someone so young, he had a drive and determination about him. He wanted to do the right thing by people and did, from what James could tell. Yes, as soon as he realized Tracy was attracted to Harrison, James had him investigated. If he had to concede to anyone, he would concede to Harrison. Tracy and Harrison were going to be good together, if Harrison could keep the women from his past out of the picture.
James had resigned himself to being only a friend to Tracy. James sat back down, put the report back in the folder and filed it away. Now, how was he going to handle this situation with David Holt and Ashley Harrison? For the moment, James thought to let things be. But if Holt steps out of line with Ashley, he would have to intervene. Ashley Harrison, James thought, she appears so confident and self-assured. But he could see how vulnerable she was with Holt. Ashley, maybe. He smiled and moved on to other things.
Chapter 15
Jeffrey and Tracy were becoming a public couple, attending functions that ranged from the block party to formal dinners with the governor. As much as Tracy loved being with JD, being around some of his friends intimidated her. Tonight’s function was mandatory for JD to attend but the more Tracy thought about it, she really did not want to attend. She was sure Carolyn would be there and Tracy did not believe she could take another night of being belittled by the green-eyed vixen. Tracy did all she could to let JD know her feelings, but he was relentless; he wanted her there with him. Tracy tried to solicit Ashley’s assistance with JD on this matter, but her friend only reprimanded her for allowing people to affect her in such a way. Instead of helping Tracy avoid the event, Ashley took steps to make sure Tracy made a hell of an appearance. Ashley told JD not to pick Tracy up; she would meet him at the function.
The music was playing, and for a change it was decent—a nice blend of music that everyone could enjoy, a little old school, a little new—not the elevator music that normally played at a formal function. The Governor’s Ballroom was as elegant as always and as impressive as the guests in attendance. The customary guests were there. All of the top offices of the state were represented, including James Brooks. Since Brian, Magna and Dan were currently a part of the DA’s office, they attended as well.
All signs indicated Cynthia and Rosaline had another successful affair underway. The crowd appeared to be enjoying the friendly banter and refreshments, particularly the open bar. Standing at one of the many flowing bar stations were JD, Calvin, Brian, Magna and Dan. When Carolyn approached, Calvin tried to give JD a heads-up, but was too late. “Good evening, everyone, are you all enjoying yourselves?” Carolyn asked in a very suspect tone. Everyone politely acknowledged her. “Good evening,” they replied in unison, as all eyes went to JD.
“JD, you look ravishingly handsome tonight,” she commented.
“Thank you, Carolyn, and you are beautiful as always,” JD responded politely.
“Well, I do try, you know.” Carolyn beamed at the compliment.
“You do well at it.” Brian smiled, admiring the low-cut gown Carolyn was displaying.
“Thank you,” she smiled brightly, loving every moment of the attention. Stepping closer to JD, she asked, “JD, you’re not flying solo tonight, are you?”
JD took a respectable step back then replied, “No.” He looked at his watch. “I don’t think so.” He searched around the room for Tracy.
“Well, I wouldn’t want you to get lonely. Let me know the outcome,” Carolyn offered seductively. “We are still friends, aren’t we?”
JD looked at Carolyn as if she had lost her mind.
“I don’t think that will happen.” JD smiled.
“My Lord in heaven,” Daniel s
aid, looking over JD’s shoulder, “grant me the words I need to take her home with me tonight.”
“What?” Brian asked, laughing and looking in the direction of Dan’s admiration.
Calvin knew exactly what Dan was referring to and smiled as he saw the look on Carolyn’s face.
Brian touched JD on the shoulder and pointed towards the door. “I’m so jealous.” He smiled.
JD turned and had to catch his breath.
Tracy entered the room and she was breathtaking. She stood at the table talking to Cynthia; her back was to them, literally. The black dress that graced her body was cut down to the lower back. It had a strand of diamonds, sparkling against her skin, hanging from her neck to the middle of her back. The rest of the dress was form fitting, falling just above her knees. She wore a pair of three-inch black sandals with diamond straps around her ankle. She turned towards them. Her hair was up in a French roll with bangs swayed to the side, revealing a pair of one-strand diamond earrings which accented her face perfectly. JD stood there for a moment. He always thought she was beautiful; he didn’t need convincing. But tonight Tracy totally dominated the room, especially for him.
Tracy was surveying the room, feeling as if a hundred pairs of eyes were on her, and they were. When she spotted JD, she smiled nervously and began walking towards him. JD melted at the stunning woman who looked at him with so much love. He put his glass down and walked toward her, but before he could reach her James Brooks showed up at her side, which infuriated JD. “Hello, Tracy.” James smiled.
Tracy turned towards James, taking her eyes away from JD for a moment and smiled. “Hello, James, how are you this evening?” She shook his hand.
“Wonderful and you are beautiful,” James replied in his rich baritone voice.
“Thank you,” she said as JD approached. She turned back to JD. “Hello,” she said with a smile that made his heart sing. JD put his hand on the small of her back possessively, pulled her to him, and then kissed her. “You’re late.” He smiled back.
“I know, I’m sorry,” she apologized. “Jeffrey, you remember James Brooks.”
“Yes,” he said, shaking his hand. “How are you this evening, Mr. Brooks?” JD asked resenting the way Brooks was admiring Tracy.
“I’m fine, JD. I was just telling Tracy how beautiful she is this evening,” James replied, gazing at Tracy from head to toe.
“Tracy is always beautiful, Mr. Brooks,” JD replied with a touch of possessiveness.
“I agree,” he said, noticing the look of irritation in JD eyes. “You two have a good evening. Try to save me a dance, Tracy,” James said as he excused himself.
“I’ll do the best I can, but this man is priority tonight.” Tracy smiled.
“I’m patient,” James replied and walked away.
Tracy turned to Jeffrey again. JD was looking down at her smiling, but Tracy could tell the smile did not go all the way to his eyes. Thinking something was wrong she looked down, put her hand on her stomach and sighed. “What’s wrong? Is it too much?” she asked nervously.
“No, you are stunning,” JD replied as he gave her the once-over.
“Thank you,” she said smiling. “Then why are you frowning?”
“I’m contemplating if I’m going to have to kick Brooks’ ass tonight,” JD stated with a half-hearted smile.
“Jeffrey!” Tracy exclaimed as she leaned into his chest laughing. “I don’t believe you said that.” She kissed him on the cheek.
He smiled. “I have some people I want you to meet.”
JD took Tracy’s hand as he looked back at James Brooks.
JD could tell Tracy was nervous. She was clutching his hand tightly as they walked across the room. A number of eyes were watching the couple, most of them wondering what had come over JD. He was never one to fawn over a woman in public. Others were watching the couple and then watching Carolyn, wondering how she was going to handle JD’s attention going elsewhere. Either way, Tracy was very aware of the crowd’s eyes. JD rubbed his thumb across her hand as a calming motion. She looked up at him and smiled just as they reached his group of friends. “Everyone, this is Tracy.” JD smiled. “Tracy, you know Calvin and Brian.”
“Hey, Tracy.” Calvin smiled.
“Hi, Calvin.” She kissed him on the cheek.
“Mr. Thompson,” Tracy said with a smile on her face, but not in her eyes.
Brian smiled and replied, “Ms. Washington, I see I’m not forgiven yet.”
“I’m still contemplating that.” Tracy smirked.
Laughing, JD continued, “You’ve met Magna Rivera and this is Daniel Graham. They’re working on the Eagles case with us.”
“Hello, Magna, Mr. Graham.”
“Oh, please, please, call me Daniel,” he said, smiling.
“Okay, Daniel.”
“You’ve met Calvin’s friend Jackie and, of course, Carolyn.”
“Good evening,” Tracy politely responded.
Carolyn stepped up to Tracy. Everyone held their breath, not knowing what to expect. “Well, hello again, Tracy,” Carolyn said as Tracy stepped a little closer to Jeffrey. “I think we should make some time to talk privately, as you suggested before. Although we have nothing in common, we could compare notes on JD. I may be able to teach you a thing or two about him.”
“Really?” Tracy asked, raising an eyebrow.
“I know I could and I promise it will be worth your time,” Carolyn said while looking at JD.
“Let’s dance,” Jeffrey suggested, pulling her away from Carolyn and walking towards the dance floor.
Tracy looked back at Carolyn as they were walking away.
Carolyn was infuriated and everyone knew it. How dare this little bitch walk into the room? This is my territory and she just crossed the line, Carolyn thought.
“Jackie, we need to talk,” Carolyn said. Calvin knew Carolyn was about to involve Jackie in one of her “get that bitch” schemes.
“Come, Jackie, let’s dance,” Calvin said as he took her hand, not giving her time to decline. They joined Jeffrey and Tracy on the dance floor.
Jeffrey was holding Tracy close while they were dancing. He could tell she was a little tense. “Are you okay?” he asked, smiling down at her and hoping to change the mood.
“No,” she replied angrily, then looked into his eyes. “I hate it when you do that,” she said.
“Do what?” JD smiled.
“Look at me like that and make me forget what I’m mad about.”
He smiled at her and pulled her closer, allowing their heads to touch slightly as they continued to dance. “Are you mad at me?” he asked while his hands played on her back.
“Yes,” she said, pouting.
He pulled his head back a little to look into her eyes. “Talk to me; what’s on your mind?”
Tracy felt a little silly now looking at Jeffrey. He was there with her, not Carolyn; what did she have to be upset about? She looked into those dark brown eyes she loved, smiled and jokingly replied, “I’m wondering if I’m going to have to kick Carolyn’s ass tonight.”
Jeffrey laughed, kissed her on the forehead, pulled her closer and enjoyed the rest of the dance.
After presentations were made and pictures were taken, JD was talking with Gavin, Senator Roth and a few men she did not recognize. Tracy did not want to intrude, so she took a seat at the bar then searched around the room. The crowd in the room seemed to have doubled since the presentations. It appeared to Tracy that everyone wanted a minute to talk to Jeffrey. She watched him and smiled. Just like so many others, Tracy loved that man. For a moment she wondered why he loved her. Looking around the room, she saw so many beautiful women. The bartender interrupted her thoughts. “Would you like something?” he asked with a smile.
“Chardonnay, please,” she replied. Tracy sat and sipped her wine. A voice came from behind and shocked her. “So, you’re with the man of the hour tonight,” David Holt said as he walked up behind her. Tracy immediately looked around th
e room for Ashley. She spotted Ashley and James on the dance floor. Hmm, that’s interesting, Tracy thought, then turned to David. She stood, then stepped back away from him. He was standing too close. David was a political analyst. She assumed he must be working for one of the many politicians in the room. “What do you want, David?” She asked in a frosty tone.
David looked her up and down, then grinned. The look made Tracy uncomfortable, so she took another step away from him and looked around the room for Jeffrey. He smirked. “I’m working, but could always find a moment for pleasure. Where’s Ashley? If you are here I’m sure she is.” He spotted Ashley on the dance floor. “I see Ashley is with Brooks again. What’s up with that?”
“Go to hell, David,” she stated, then started to walk away.
David grabbed her arm with a subtle jerk. “Don’t ever walk away from me,” he scoffed.
“Take your hands off that woman before I break your fucking neck,” Brian demanded coldly without a blink. David looked at Brian, then released Tracy’s arm. “You okay, Tracy?” Brian asked as he stepped between the two of them without taking his eyes off David.
“Yes, thank you,” Tracy replied. The last thing she wanted was to be the cause of a scene.
Brian looked at David. “This is not a good situation for you, my friend. We can do this quietly or not, doesn’t matter to me,” he stated, standing toe to toe with David. David looked at Tracy then at Ashley and sneered. “Tell Ashley I will be in touch.” Then he walked away.
Brian waited until David was out of hearing range, and then stared at Tracy with a raised eyebrow. “Who in the hell was that?”
Tracy sighed. “David Holt, an old friend of Ashley’s.”
“What is he doing here, or better yet, what were his hands doing on you?”
“I don’t know why he’s here. But we’ve run into him a little too much lately.”
“If he’s a problem you should tell JD about him.”