Duplicity E-Book

Jo Wilde

• Herausgeber: Next Chapter
• Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
• Sprache: Englisch

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2022

Beschreibung

Anna Lee Baker suffers from childhood amnesia. Now, as an adult, she can't seem to catch a break.

Fleeing from an abusive boyfriend, she heads to New Orleans where her big brother, Dr. Jeff Baker lives. Jeff offers to help Anna if she promises to enroll in college, get a job, and most of all, to see a therapist.

When a budding romance begins between Anna and the neighbor, Dr. Ethan LeBlanc, she finds herself in a dangerous love triangle. A huge question hangs in the balance: is Ethan involved with her therapist, Dr. Kim Rice. Soon, Anna's world begins to spiral out of control, as she struggles to discern between reality or delusion.

Is Dr. Rice right about Anna having schizophrenia, or is the doctor trying to get Anna out of Ethan's life for good, no matter the cost?

This romantic suspense novel contains some strong language.

Leseprobe

DUPLICITY

WHEN TRUST IS TOO HIGH A PRICE

JO WILDE

Copyright (C) 2012 Jo Wilde

Layout design and Copyright (C) 2021 by Next Chapter

Published 2021 by Next Chapter

Edited by Tyler Colins

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the author’s permission.

CONTENTS

1. Prelude

2. Flee

3. New Beginnings

4. Job Hunting

5. Foe or Friend

6. The Job

7. The Talk

8. The Therapist

9. Job Interview

10. The Apology

11. Meet the Friends

12. Old World Witchery

13. Therapy: Session 2

14. The Wind

15. Gifts Beyond

16. Acquaintance

17. Charity Hospital

18. Back to Normal

19. Things that go Bump in the Night

20. Eye Spy

21. Cray-Cray

22. New Doctor

23. The One

24. Paranoia

25. The Date

26. Getting Acquainted

27. Blackout

28. Speculation

29. Confession

30. Unexpected Guest

31. Family Secrets

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About the Author

PRELUDE

When I left my abusive boyfriend, I thought all my troubles were behind me. But to my horror, it was only the beginning. Without breathing, I stared across the cabin into his pleasant face. I wondered … how could I have not known he was a monster?

FLEE

Life sucks! When it storms, it blows in one kick-ass blizzard. It seems my life once again is at a tailspin. Why do I keep falling back into the same old pattern? It’s like I don’t have a cell in my brain. I keep picking the wrong people over and over. Stumbling in the rabbit hole has become a bad habit of mine.

Fright racks my mind as I finish shoving the last piece of clothing in my overstuffed bag and snatching it up and sprinting for the front door with keys in hand. I’m not running from my troubles. It’s my life I’m fleeing from.

I knuckle the blood from my busted lip, darting downstairs, two steps at a time, dragging my heavy bag with me.

The crisp night smells like ice. It bites my bruised cheek and swollen eye. I lift my eyes to the ominous canopy of clouds. The meteorologist finally got this prediction right. The frozen grass crunches under my feet while icicled trees slump low and ice flakes cover my long, black hair and shoulders like a white, wintery shawl.

A shiver runs through me as I try to ignore the throbbing pain. I can’t catch my breath. It feels like someone’s hand is clamped around my lungs and squeezing as I beg for air. But I can’t slow down. I have to get out of town quickly before my boyfriend, Tad, returns.

Why do I push his buttons? I know the outcome. We had gotten into a terrible argument. And for the first time in our relationship, I stood up to him. I will pay dearly for that mistake. I should’ve kept my mouth shut. I lost my temper and made him hit me. It’s my fault. If I’d just left … turned and walked out the front door, he would’ve never known that I had returned home.

Screw him! I refuse to be his punching bag any longer. I should’ve ended this two-year relationship long before now. I’ve invested my time with a man that has no idea how to be in a committed relationship.

Why do I do this to myself? A dark cloud seems to always hover over me, and the promise of trouble is a mere whisper away. Will I ever stop being a loser? Can’t I do anything right?

Of all things, I caught Tad in bed with my closest friend, Susan. I knew this incident meant the beginning of a colossal mudslide. The whole scene is as fresh as the cut on my busted lip and as deep as the bruise on my cheek.

Strangled with cheap, heavy perfume, I stand in the doorframe of our bedroom, gaping at Tad and Susan entangled between the sheets in the throes of sex. I drop my bag.

“What the hell?” Shock, hurt, and betrayal slams into my chest as I stand there gawking, frozen like an ice sculpture.

Susan yaps and scrambles for her clothes, scurrying past me, darting for the front door. I glower at my friend but let her go. Why bother? She has bigger problems than me. Dealing with her six-foot-four husband should serve her right.

My eyes target Tad as he takes his time slipping on his jeans. The fat grin beaming across his face suggests his lack of remorse. “What are you starin’ at?” His voice is cold and aloof.

Tears well in my eyes as I ask, “How long has this been going on?” I cross my arms, holding his baleful gaze.

“Stop your snifflin’. I-dee-clare, Ms. Baker. I do believe I’m a grown man. Don’t have to answer to you,” he mocks.

“A man!” I scoff. “Half the time you’re unemployed and the other half you’re at some bar getting shitfaced.”

“So, what Anna! I’d rather be with anyone else than the likes of you!” His words feel like stones being thrown at me.

“No one is forcing you to stay. Leave!” Tears streak my cheeks.

Tad steps up in my face, his lips quivering with bitterness. “I’m not goin’ anywhere, bitch! I like it here.”

“Of course, you do! Why would you not? You have free rent, food, and a comfortable bed to screw your best friend’s wife!” I shove his chest, causing him to stumble. A big mistake.

“Never put your hands on me!” Anger flickers through his hard, black eyes as he cold-cocks my cheek, clipping the corner of my eye.

I fall to the floor, cradling my throbbing face. Before I have time to see past the spinning stars, he wrings a fist full of my hair and drags me to my feet. Taking his rage further, he backhands me. Immediately, I taste blood on my lip. I stagger backward but remain on my feet. Tad comes at me again, rearing his fist back to take another.

But I spy my bag on the floor in the bedroom doorway. I duck and make a swan dive for it. Thrusting my hand inside its content, I pull my hand free, revealing a small pistol, my Smith & Wesson six-forty-two. I aim right between Tad’s eyes, gritting my teeth and tasting the sweet nectar of revenge.

“Make one more move, and I swear, I’ll shoot you where you stand.” My finger caresses the cold steel trigger. One easy pull and it’d be over. I’d get off too. Self-defense with all the bruises on my face.

Tad’s eyes fill with a mix of emotions: anger, fright, shock. “You gotta be kidding?”

“Nope! I’m done with you hurting me.” I cradle my gun in both hands, pointing straight at him, daring him to move.

He throws his palms up. “Good riddance! In a few short weeks, I’ll have enough money to live wherever I want, and it sure as hell won’t be with you!” He sneers, spinning on his heels and storming out the door. I lower the gun as I hear Tad starting his truck to a roar, and headlights quickly flash through the window.

After a moment, the truck’s engine, and light fade. I take a deep breath, collapsing my trembling body to the floor and raking in air.

Putting Dallas, Texas and Tad Taylor in my rearview mirror is the best idea I’ve had in a long time. I’m getting the hell out of Dodge and never coming back.

Destination … New Orleans.

My older brother, Jeff, invited me to stay at his pad for an undisclosed time. He’s a second-year resident at Tulane Medical Center, only a block from the French Quarter. A great location to live. And since Jeff works ungodly hours, I’ll have the place to myself the majority of the time. A perfect solution to a terrible ending and a much brighter future. At least, that’s the plan.

NEW BEGINNINGS

After eight hours of driving, I arrive at my brother’s apartment complex at 925 Common, in the central business district. I check the address again just in case I’d read it wrong. “Nope. I’m at the right place,” I mumble to myself as I drop my chin in shock, tilting my head back and gaping at the tall building. Such an improvement from his last cramped, one-room apartment. It didn’t even have running water. He had to shower at the hospital.

My eyes rake over the high-rise. I see that big brother’s hard work has paid off. Jeff explained to me that the property is older and was once an office building. I like it; it goes with the vibe of the city.

The area is mostly high-rise buildings in the heart of the busy city. I’m used to traffic noise and busy streets, so, I shouldn’t have any trouble adjusting. But even more so, I’m happy my brother is opening his home to me. I don’t know what I would’ve done if it hadn’t been for his generosity.

I spot Jeff waiting by the curb. I’d called my brother letting him know that I was only fifteen minutes away. Or at least that’s what my GPS said.

Excitement warms my heart, seeing Jeff’s big smile light up. It’s been a few months since I last saw him. He approaches the car just as I pull up and park. Boy, luck must be on my side today. Catching a convenient parking spot in the city seldom happens. Maybe Jeff will have an extra parking spot for me. Valet parking sounds dope!

I climb out of my packed-to-the-hilt car as a crisp breeze tousles my hair. I forget the winters are milder in Louisiana. I’m glad too. Driving on ice sure ain’t for this Texan. Louisiana has milder winters but hotter summers. Which reminds me of Jeff’s infinity pool he’s bragged so much about. Living here is going to be a nice vacation.

I plan to get a job and take a couple of courses at the local community college. I’m the black sheep of the family. My parents were big on education. Jeff pursued his dream of becoming a doctor. Unlike Jeff, I have failed miserably sticking with a job or getting an education. But it’s time I grow up. I have to get my life on track and expecting Jeff to support me forever is unfair to him. I don’t want to be a bum.

But I have high hopes. From this point on, my life can only get better. Why wouldn’t it? My big brother is helping me.

“Hey, Jeff!” I smile back and reach up on my tippy toes to hug my six-foot-three brother. To look at us, one would never think we’re siblings. We look nothing alike. Jeff’s tall, blond, and blue-eyes. I’m five-two, Arabian hair, and hazel eyes. “You’re lookin’ good, bro.”

He pulls away, holding me at arm’s length. “You’re looking a little fluffy,” he teases as I slug him in his arm.

“Shut up, Jeffie! I’m not fat, you nerd,” I laugh and slug him again. Truth is … I’m not a big girl, but I do have some junk in my trunk.

Jeff grabs my bag. “C’mon, let me show you the place. I’ll get my neighbor to help with your stuff in a bit.”

“Okay, but you don’t think anyone will break”

“Nah,” he shakes his head. “Most of us tenants here are nerds. We wouldn’t know how to smash your window or pop the lock,” he chuckles, glancing at my car. “No one’s going to want your junk anyway.”

“You’re pushing it!” I glare at him, but internally I’m laughing.

We enter the lobby and pass the clerk sitting behind a long counter like a fancy hotel. I look at Jeff. “Wow! Impressive.” I nudge him with my shoulder.

“It’s alright,” he shrugs. “I’m just a resident. But it ain’t too bad.”

“Why Jeffery Dan Baker, I do believe your southern accent is comin’ out when you’re embarrassed.”

“Hush up before I kick you out,” he teases, or at least I think he is.

My brother and I are all we have. Our parents’ lives were taken by a drunk driver in a head-on crash. The drunk lived, my parents were not as lucky. I was eighteen and my brother was twenty-six and in the middle of medical school. Somehow, he pushed forward, determined to stay with it, and now he’s a resident at one of the best hospitals in the country. I think he just dug his heels into the ground and kept his mind on his studies. Now look at him … a surgeon.

Me?

I wear the jewel crown of a troublemaker. The one that stayed out past curfew, smoked pot, and had a fair amount of underage drinking. Most of my teenage years, I think my parents’ favorite catchphrase was … you’re grounded! Despite their efforts, I still managed to defy them. I can’t count all the times I’d climbed out my window and shimmied down the old oak tree to meet up with my friends.

But that cold winter night, three days before Christmas, our parents were coming home from a party that my dad’s company had thrown in his benefit. Dad owned a couple of retail stores that sold uniforms and western wear. Mom was a part-time nurse and worked for a private doctor. I guess that’s where Jeff gets his talents.

I’m still trying to figure it out. But one thing I can say … after that unfathomable night of losing our parents, I stopped getting high, and I cut out drinking.

My biggest regret is that my parents had to die first, before I cleaned up my act. I was young and stupid.

And I struggle to forgive myself.

Years have passed, and I’m still digging my way out of the rabbit hole. I should’ve seen the trouble coming with Tad. But I wasn’t any better at picking girlfriends either. Now I’ve ditched all that excess baggage in Texas and, hopefully, I’ve left my poor choices there too. I’m done with love; I have terrible taste in picking men.

The bell dings and the doors slide open with a mechanical thump. Jeff and I step inside the elevator and he pushes button ten. I gape at him, surprised. I remember when we were teenagers. No matter how much I bribed him, he refused to ride Judge Roy Scream, the baby rollercoaster at Six Flags. No one could talk him into it either. “I thought you were afraid of heights?”

He looks at his feet. “People change.”

“Yeah, uh, hmm. Why is it I don’t believe you?” My mouth curved into an unconscious smile, knowing damn well his curtains are closed tighter than a camel’s butt during a sandstorm.

We step out onto a long corridor with one door after another. Finally, we reach the last door on the left and stop at number 1025. Jeff pulls out his key from his jean pocket and slips the key in the lock. We enter and I stop to gape. Jeff stops behind me and sets my luggage down.

The apartment is better than decent: white marble counter-tops, stainless steel appliances, wood floors, and huge windows at every angle, bathing the space in bright sunshine. It’s perfect! I can imagine at night the panorama view of the city lights as far as the eye can see. I gasp with excitement.

I peel away my eyes and spot black leather furniture. I turn to my brother as I make my way to the center of the apartment. “Wow! Did you decorate?”

Jeff hides a smile behind his hand. “Some. But I had help.”

“Great help!” My eyes stop at the center window. “The cars look like toys. So tiny.” I turn to Jeff. “Why so high? You’re terrified of heights.”

A faint smile tips the corners of his lips. “People do change.”

“Do you ever enjoy the view? I can’t wait to see the city lights at night.”

“I usually keep the blinds drawn.”

“Whatta waste.” My eyes brush over the space. “Where will I be sleeping?”

“Follow me.” Jeff nods as he heads to the other side of the living room.

Down a short hallway, we come to a halt at the second bedroom. I step inside as Jeff leans on the doorframe. Standing in the middle of the room, I wash my eyes over the room. A little tight in size but still nice. The window isn’t as large as the living room but it still brings in a generous amount of light. I can’t wait to gaze at the nightlights as I drift off to sleep.

I notice sheets, a blanket, and two pillows stacked on the full-size bed. The fresh scent of “new” fills the room. A small dresser stands in the corner and a bathroom is off to the left. Unlike most women, I didn’t have a lot of clothes, so the fair size closet will accommodate my belongings. I didn’t have anything of value anyway.

I face Jeff and say, “Wow! New bed and covers too.”

“Yes, I’m not letting you ruin my new couch.” He looks at the floor, shifting his feet, smiling.

After our parents died, Jeff became the parent and pushed me to clean up my act. I’m not an addict, thank goodness, but it could’ve happened if I had not stopped.

I reach up and hug my brother. “Thank you for all your trouble. It’s wonderful!” I smile up at him with awe.

“Well, you know how I feel about Tad. I’m glad you left him. I’m just going to be frank with you, sis. You are better than him. And … and the kind of friends you pick …” Jeff’s lips thinned.

At that moment, I couldn’t look my brother in the face. Just as if he were my parent, guilt strikes at my chest. “I know. I’m trying. I really am.”

“Are you? Because from where I stand, I don’t see it.” There’s a critical tone to his voice.

“Okay, I pick crappy friends and a boyfriend that half the time didn’t bother coming home. I know … I screwed up!” I huff.

“You’ve got to start learning to love someone who’s good for you.”

I get what Jeff’s saying. I know how much I have worried him and our parents when they were alive. I correct one problem, and five more pop up in its place. “I know I deserve a good chewing out, but can I at least settle in a night before you lecture me?” I’m not ready for the heavy yet.

“Okay, fine!” He rakes his fingers through his hair. “I have a shift tonight. Let me go get the neighbor and we can unload your car.” He pushes out a smile but I know, inside, he’s disappointed in me.

“I can help!” I try to be cheerful.

“What? And ruin our male ego?” he teases.

“Alrighty, then.” I clasp my hands together. “I guess I’ll get my suitcase and take a shower.”

I feel awkward not helping, He’s always there for me. Such a dependable brother. I don’t know what I’d do without him.

Jeff had supplied me with all the makings for a great shower: body soap, shampoo, even toothpaste and a toothbrush. He thought of everything.

I quickly dress, hoping to catch my brother before he finishes the last load. The least I can do is carry in the small boxes. I snatch up my overnight bag and tug out a T-shirt and my favorite pair of cut-offs. My brows dip into a scowl as I hold up my shorts to the light. Most of my belongings are still in Texas. Especially the good stuff. No biggie, though. Out with the old and in with the new. And that means new clothing… that is, after I land a job.

I make my way into the living room and stop in my tracks. My eyes go bug-eyed. A stranger is halfway buried in one of my boxes. My eyes freeze on his long, lean physique. I bite my bottom lip, pausing a moment, enjoying the firmness of his tush. After an enjoyable moment of ogling, I begin to feel like a perv. Awkward.

Glancing over my clothing, I come to a sharp realization that I’m not prepared to meet any guest. I’m a terrible mess, even for a blind man. My hair is dripping wet and saturating my T-shirt. And here I stand in my short, short cut-offs that have more holes than thread. I clear my throat. “Hello.”

I startle the mystery man and he shoots to attention. Our eyes latch. “Oh, hey!” he drawls. “You must be the little sister?” He wipes his right hand on his jeans and steps forward. “I’m Ethan LeBlanc. The neighbor.”

I meet the smile and hand which is offered. “I’m”

“You’re Anna Lee Baker. I’ve heard a lot about you.”

“Oh. Well, I hope it’s all good.” I jump on that a little too fast. “Hmm.” My gaze combs the living room. “Is Jeff downstairs?”

“Jeff left for the hospital, bitching about no hot water.” His glint churns with amusement. He’s teasing me.

“Oh, yeah … hot water.” Jesus! I’m rattling on.

“Hey, I hate to run, but I have to get ready too. My shift at the hospital starts in half an hour.”

“Oh! You’re a doctor like Jeff?” That explains the smooth hand but unlike most, his is warm. I smile inwardly.

“You are correct,” he flashes a lopsided grin. “After the shift, you should come join us. We usually stop at a local bar and shoot the breeze. You know, wind down from a taxing night.”

“You guys go drinking in the morning?”

“Laissez les bons temps rouler,” he rattles off perfectly. “Bars stay open a little later here, and especially if the owner is a good buddy.” His lips draw back, revealing straight white teeth.

“Oh, I see.” I bite my bottom lip. “You speak Cajun French?” He does have that French vibe, light sandy hair, tawny skin, and dreamy green eyes that screams sex.

“I do,” his eyes sparkle. “Do you speak French?”

“Oh no!” I giggle. “I did a little research about the city.”

“There’s a lot of history in this old town. More than a hundred years ago my people moved here from Canada. A long line, born and raised right here in this city.” He unconsciously scratches behind his ear. “Anyway, it’s nothing special. The food’s pretty good too. Especially when you’re single. Boiling water is not in my skill set,” he laughs, a nice rich rolling laugh like molten chocolate.

“Boiling water is a necessity to survival,” I tease.

“I’ve heard that. It’s a wonder that I’ve survived for the past thirty years.” His eyes glisten with mirth.

“I have a book with instructions. You’re welcome to it.”

“I just might have to take you up on that offer.” Our eyes lock as a silent moment settles between us.

I break contact first. Stuffing my hands in my back pockets. “As generous as your offer sounds, I have to sit this one out. Maybe next time,” I smile, kicking myself.

“Sure, no problem. Nice meeting you.” He edges his way to the door, toting a smile. “Have a nice evening.”

“Hmm … thanks for the help.”

“You bet!” Ethan smiles, leaving as I lock up behind him.

I pause, leaning against the door. Suddenly, the apartment is quiet, and a quick bout of loneliness stabs me. After living with Tad, I should be used to it. This move is a good thing. I think.

One thing for certain, I can’t get into another relationship until I figure out what to do with my life. I inhale a deep breath. Ethan leaves a great first impression. Not only is he easy on the eyes, but he’s nice too. Two attributes you rarely find in one man.

Even if I wanted to meet up, I couldn’t intrude. Apart from my brother, I’ve always felt guys like Ethan were out of my league. You know the type: mild-mannered, smart, quiet, and sweet. With my record of screwing up, I don’t understand what a nice guy would see in me.

I’m my worst enemy. I have a knack for finding men that are incapable of feelings. You know the type. They show up for the date, absent-minded of their wallet, sticking you with the bill and daring to expect sex afterward. I think I need to take a break from men. I should get my life in order first. A man would only prolong my problems.

Shifting the focus from the hot neighbor to my boxes, I huff. Might as well get started. My things aren’t gonna unpack themselves.

JOB HUNTING

I get up early and get dress. I have my thick mane-like hair blow-dried, flowing to my waist and straight, just precisely the way I like it. I decided to make myself presentable for any worthwhile entry-level job that pays minimum wage. Dress for success, or in my case, dress for any job that pays even pennies. The holes in my pockets are getting larger. I need a job and pronto. I dig out my only dress and borrow Jeff’s iron. Can’t have wrinkles on a job interview. I don’t want to give anyone the impression that I’m a slob. I am, but that’s not the point.

After I pour my body into the garment, I stand staring at myself in Jeff’s long-length mirror that I’d swiped from his bedroom. Eh, the black dress is a little short, and form-fitting. My knee-high boots will disguise the short length. But just in case, I ought to wear a coat to cover my ass.

Apart from the relentless monsoon seasons and the monstrous hurricanes, New Orleans might not be such a bad place to live. Lots of life in this city. It’s rich, with so much diversity and culture. All the more intriguing.

I’m not sure where to apply. I’m sort of lost in the world of job marketing. For the last two years, I’ve been living with Tad, he’d demanded that I stay home. Now that I’m out from under his perpetual control, I’m like that little bird released from her cage and confused where to fly. Regardless of my newfound freedom, it’s a little intimidating. I don’t have any training in any particular field. I am a disaster with computers, my experience waiting tables is hazardous from breaking dishes, getting orders wrong and pissing off customers. Maybe a department store can hire me. I’m pretty good with a register.

Unlike my brother, I barely finished high school. My senior year was the year we lost Mom and Dad. I wanted to drop out and get my GED. Jeff wouldn’t stand for it. He insisted I finish or else he’d kick my ass. I graduated, but not with the best GPA.

I’m stuffing my face with cereal when Jeff comes through the door. I take one look and see the exhausted lines cleaved in his face. “Hey, rough night?” I smile, taking a bite of corn flakes.

“You could say that,” he mumbles as he pads his way to the fridge and grabs a bottle of Fiji water and joins me at the island. “Did you sleep well?” He opens the cap and turns his head back, taking a deep gulp.

“I did. Thanks!” I smile before stuffing a large bite in my mouth.

“I see you found your way to my Frosted Flakes.”

“You know I did, Jeffie,” I grin, stuffing another big bite. It’s my favorite too. “Why aren’t you at the bar with all your doctor friends?”

A fine line appears between his brows, “How do you know where I hang out?”

“Your neighbor, Ethan, invited me to meet up with y’all,” I shrug. “I didn’t want to invade your turf.”

“Oh, stop it! You’re welcome anytime.” He suddenly frowns. “I lost a patient.”

“I’m sorry.” I pause. “Such a terrible night.”

“It never gets easy losing a patient. And of all things, it had to be a car accident.”

“Do you think about Mom and Dad?” Such a painful reminder. We were robbed of our parents at such an early age. It’s not fair. Life is not fair, and I hate accepting that fact.

“It’s not just Mom and Dad’s death, Ann,” his voice appears edgy. I never liked that tone. “Another human life is gone needlessly.”

“I’m sorry.”

He stares at the window and cuts his eyes back to me. “It’s fine. I’m just drained.” He goes quiet as he takes another drink of his water. “So where are you going all dolled up?” He eye-balls me.

“I’m going job hunting. I can’t be mooching off my brother forever.” I take another bite of corn flakes.

“Yeah, that’d be nice for a change.”

“I figure New Orleans is a big place. I might get a bartending job. They make good tips.”

“Anna, I understand that you want some spending money, but I have another idea, and I’m willing to help.”

Oh crap, here we go.

“What?” I drop my spoon in the bowl.

“You’re not going to make a living as a bartender or depending on a boyfriend to support you. Look at Tad. That is when he actually worked. Hell, half the time I paid your rent, groceries and anything else you needed.”

“Jeff, I’m going to pay you back every cent!” I feel on the defense. Listening to him tick off all the things he has done pierces my heart to the point that I want to run back to Texas. Though running away is becoming an unabating habit. It’s time I grow up and take some responsibility.

“You can pay me back by pulling yourself out of the gutter and going to college. Get a degree, or even training in something that will keep you afloat. How many times are you going to suffer the backhand of creeps like Tad, so you can have a place to live?”

“That’s not entirely true. I really cared about him.”

“Like hell you did! Ann, I love you, but I know you better than anyone. You’re a loafer. Always moving from one person to the next, not giving it much thought. And no plans for the future. You’re not getting any younger. Before you know it, you’re looking at fifty. Too late in life to start a career.”

“That’s enough!” I snap.

“Is it? What are you going to do? Find another guy that gets liquored up and decides to kill you?”

“That’s not fair!” Guilt is eating at me from the inside.

“Fair or truth?” his lips tighten. “That jerk put you in the hospital, and you went back to him after I begged you to come home with me. It took that son of a bitch to get caught with his pants down with your trashy girlfriend before you decided to leave.” Jeff slices through my raw wound like I’m a piece of cake. “He hit you again, didn’t he? Your make-up can’t hide the bruises.”

Jeff’s right. I know how to pick ‘em. “Okay, okay!” A suffocating sensation tightens my throat. “You’re right. I’m the loser sister you wish you never had!”

“Those are your words, not mine! I care about you, but I’m fed up with picking up the pieces and trying to make you well. I just don’t understand why you keep picking these losers and ruining your life. You’re better than that.”

It feels as if my throat is closing up. I can’t listen to Jeff’s scolding any further. I quickly push from the island, sliding off the stool and snatching my bag. I don’t disagree with Jeff. I need a moment to breathe before he rehashes all my stupid mistakes.

“Look, I’m sorry! I can’t do this right now. See you later.” I dart out, slamming the door behind me and rushing down the corridor. I stop at the elevator and jab the button several times, taking my anger out on it. Sometimes it’s hard letting Jeff hammer at me.

Boy, what I’d give for a drink … several. But that would add one more to Jeff’s endless list. Still, sometimes, I just don’t give a rat’s ass.

Jeff’s right. Tad is trouble. He put me in the hospital with a broken jaw and two cracked ribs. I can’t remember what we were arguing about. How stupid is that? I wipe a fallen tear with the back of my hand. Crap! Hope my mascara doesn’t run. I blow out a sharp sigh. What great memories I have. Tad spending the night in county jail while the police tried persuading me to press charges. How could I do that to him when I’d provoked him? Don’t men think with their fists?

The elevator door dings and opens. I start to board but my eyes collide with that cute neighbor, Ethan Something. Dang, I can’t remember his last name, but he looks good in his light blue scrubs. I suddenly realize I’d been crying and it’s apparent as I see the startled look in his sea-green eyes. I swallow the lump in my throat as I say, “Oh, hi.” Jesus! Perfect timing!

“Hey, you okay?” He holds the door open, his eyes piercing, full of pity.

“Yeah, it’s nothing. Really.” I can’t step into that elevator and have my brother’s friend see me collapse into pieces. “You can go on down. I’ll wait for the next one.”

“C’mon,” he smiles amiably. “I’ll ride with you. You look like you could use a friend.” Oh geez, he feels sorry for me. Not cool or sexy.

“Alright,” I force myself to smile as I step inside. The door rattles as it closes, and I take a long breath. I suddenly smell cologne, an outdoor scent like fresh pine. Whatever he’s wearing, it’s enticing.

All at once, I feel nervous as I shuffle my feet. Ethan stands next to me, quiet, though I sense his eyes on me. Just break the ice, will you? “Where are you heading to?” Geez, now I sound nosey. Talking about the weather would’ve been better.

“Oh, I just got off my shift. Thought I’d walk you out. You know, make sure you’re okay.” A gentle smile dances in his soulful eyes.

“You really don’t have to bother. I’m alright. Jeff and I sorta had a disagreement is all. No biggie.” Nervously, I moisten my lips.

“You look nice. I like your hair, but I prefer the wet look,” he smiles as humor flashes in his eyes.

“Thank you.” My cheeks flush.

The first floor dings and he holds the doors for me to exit. As we make our way to my car, he asks, “Do you have somewhere you have to go?”

“Uh … I’m job hunting. Thought I’d go drop off applications to the local bars around here. How hard can it be serving beer?” I shrug.

“It’s early. Why don’t you let me take you for coffee? Have you eaten?”

Oh, geez! Another person trying to give me advice is more than I can handle this morning. “It’s sweet, but I can’t. Maybe next time?” I dig out my keys and unlock my car door.

He scratches his day-old stubble. “No problem. Another time, then,” he flashes a brief smile.

“Thanks for walking me out.”

“Any time,” he winks.

As I climb in my car, I watch Ethan saunter back to the building. His movements are swift, full of grace, and virility. I sigh, feeling the devil of disappointment. Why couldn’t I have met this guy first?

I may not have truly loved Tad, but the impact of his infidelity still left a mark on my heart. My raw memories of our argument still lingers. For the life of me, I can’t understand why I stayed as long as I did. This girl is hanging her Texas hat elsewhere. When I say I’m done, I am done!

I pounded the pavement, hitting every bar on Bourbon Street. Most places directed me to apply online. I just figured I could go marching in and get hired. Boy, was I wrong!

I return home heavy-hearted. No job, no gas, and no money to even buy a piece of gum. Then, a brilliant idea knocks me in the head like a fallen brick from the sky.

I’m standing at my neighbor’s door, ringing the doorbell. I rock on my heels until I hear feet dragging across the floor. Seconds later, the door squeaks open and Ethan appears, eyes heavy with sleep, dressed merely in heart-covered boxers. “What’s up?” he speaks in a groggy voice.

Oh, snap! “You were sleeping.” My eyes pause at his boxers and my cheeks flame.

“It’s fine,” Ethan yawns, running his fingers through the tousled, sandy curls that sweep into his face. “What can I do for you?”

“It can wait.” Shaking my head, I back from the door and turn, tossing over my shoulder, “I’m sorry to have disturbed you.”

“No, it’s okay,” he calls out, opening the door. “I have to get up anyway. Come in.” He steps back, seemingly unbothered that he’s shirtless.

Nice abs, by the way. The boxers are pretty darn cute too. I bite my bottom lip to hold back a giggle.

“Oh … ooo-kay.” I keep my eyes up, forcing myself not to peek … much. He’s adorable but hands-off. After all, he’s my brother’s friend.