Stacy Deanne (BWWM Romance) Whos That Girl

Who’s that Girl? By Stacy-Deanne

Copyright © 2016 Stacy-Deanne ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.

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Other titles by Stacy-Deanne Include: Worth the Risk Outside Woman Sometimes Money Ain’t Enough An Unexpected Love The Seventh District

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CHAPTER ONE Thirty-four-year-old Georgia Arnett held her breath as she followed Teddy Spears through the side gate of the gigantic, brown-bricked mansion. “Don’t be nervous.” The fiftyeight-year-old Teddy smiled back at Georgia with his brown skin glimmering

in the moonlight. “You got this, girl.” He winked at her, holding the folder to his side. “I wish I could be as confident as you.” Her leather pumps clickclacked on the pebbled walkway that led to the back patio. “Hold on.” She stooped over. “I think I’m going to be sick.” “What’s going on, huh?” Teddy

caressed her hand but instead of comforting her, it made her feel sicker. “Everything’s gonna be fine.” He touched a strand of her long, straight hair. “You trust me, don’t you?” She swallowed. “Yeah.” “Then you shouldn’t be nervous.” He pulled her up straight. “A woman as beautiful and charming as you will have them eating out of her hands,

but you gotta keep it together, baby girl. If you psych yourself out then everything will go wrong. You don’t want that, do you?” Hell no. She had the chance of a lifetime in claiming the bulk of Anthony Spears’ estate as her own, and nothing would stand in her way. She stuck her chest out and shook the fear away.

No matter what it took, Georgia Arnett would get her piece of the pie. “I’m fine.” She cleared her throat and fixed the back of her clingy, black dress. “Let’s go.” “That’s my girl.” Jazzy music, chattering, and laughter greeted them when they got to the crowded patio. Thanks to the Santa Barbara night breeze, Georgia got a

whiff of a variety of smells such as cinnamon, honey, and some Italian meat dish. She loved Italian food more than life itself so she recognized the scent of tomato and vinegar. There were at least a hundred people. Georgia knew they had to be Santa Barbara’s most revered and richest citizens. “Ooh.” Georgia shuddered. “I

hate rich folks. They’re so stuck up.” The guests mingled with glasses of champagne and small plates of hors d'oeuvres. Georgia scowled as a pale, redheaded woman took a glass of champagne from a waiter and dismissed him as if he were a dog. “I don’t know if I can do this.” “You have to do this.” Teddy

snatched her hand. “Remember, this isn’t just about you but me too. Now if you want that money then I suggest you suck it up and start to like rich folks.” He let go of her hand. “Besides, you’ll be one after tonight.” “Are you sure this is gonna work out?” Stiff ass male and female servers walked through the guests with trays as

people snatched food and drinks without even acknowledging the service. “You can leave right now if you can’t hang.” Teddy crossed his arms. “Don’t you want this life? Isn’t it what you’ve always dreamed? This is your chance.” He pinched her chin. “It’s about to be handed to you, and you won’t have to do a damn thing.” “Everyone, can I have your

attention?” A regal, black woman, who carried herself with mature grace even though she looked young, stood from the table in the center of the patio. With her glowing, mocha-toned skin, and shoulder-length, auburn hair, she demanded attention. “I want to make a birthday toast to our dear Anthony.” She lifted her glass of champagne and saluted the dead man’s memory.

“Is that Wanda Spears?” Georgia whispered. “Yep.” Teddy nodded. “Jesus.” Georgia stared at Anthony’s enchanting widow. “Isn’t she in her late fifties?” He nodded again. Georgia did a double take at Wanda. “She looks almost as young as I do.”

“So I say on behalf of Anthony…” Wanda held her glass up higher, her light-brown eyes twinkling under the lights. “Thank you all for being here and celebrating this beautiful day. To Anthony!” “To Anthony!” The audience lifted their glasses and howled. A younger man and woman who appeared around their late twenties or

early thirties, sat at the table where Wanda stood. “Is that your sister’s son? Ulysses?” Georgia nudged Teddy as she pointed to the young man. “Yeah, that’s him.” Teddy exhaled. Georgia observed the handsome, brown-skinned stranger. “I see good looks run in the family, hmm?”

Teddy rolled his eyes. “What?” Georgia tried to decipher Teddy’s weird expression. “You two don’t get along or something?” “The boy’s a couple cigarettes short of a carton if you ask me.” Teddy shifted his weight to one side. “Ever since he came to live with Anthony after his momma died in that car accident he hasn’t been right. He was just sixteen

and everyone else said he was going through a phase, but I think the boy’s nuts.” He squinted. “Course no one listens to me about him. I don’t think he ever got over what happened to my sister.” “I can imagine how hard it would be for him to get over his mother’s death. How old is he?” Teddy cleared his throat. “He’s

your age.” The clean-cut Ulysses Spears looked dashing in his dark suit that highlighted his striking, caramel skin. Teddy escorted Georgia to one of the food tables and handed her a small bowl of sliced strawberries. She bit into a huge piece. “How come you didn’t take Ulysses in?” Teddy grabbed a chocolate off a

tray and bit into it. “Anthony felt it was best if he raised him since he had a wife. Remember what I said about everyone. Don’t go getting attached.” He sucked chocolate from his thumb. “You’re here for one reason and one reason only. To get that—” “Money.” Georgia wobbled her head, chewing. “I know.” Teddy got another chocolate.

“Don’t forget it.” Georgia glanced at the table where Wanda and Ulysses sat. This time she focused on the gorgeous, carameltoned woman who sat beside Ulysses with her lips poked out and her arms crossed. “Is that Wanda’s daughter?” Georgia asked Teddy. “Yep, that’s Osana.”

Osana Royal sipped from her glass of champagne and made another sour face. “Anthony raised her as if she were his own.” Teddy clasped his hands. “She loved him to death, but she and Wanda don’t get along at all. Wanda tries to make amends but the more she tries, the more Osana resents her.” Georgia bit into another

strawberry, flinching at the bittersweetness. “Why?” Teddy flicked his hand as if he couldn't care less. “Osana always felt like Wanda wasn’t there for her. She’s carrying a bunch of baggage from her childhood because her dad ran off.” “Damn, I haven’t been here an hour yet and there’s enough drama to write a book.”

“I told you this family is a mess.” Teddy glanced around. “They put on this facade like they’re some wonderful family in public but all this shit goes on behind closed doors. You gotta watch Osana.” He whistled, shaking his head. “You talk about a bitch.” Georgia smacked her lips. “I’m not scared of her.” “I mean it, Georgia. She was

sweet as candy when Anthony was alive but it’s like she doesn’t give a damn about anyone but herself now.” Osana looked around with her mouth crooked while twirling a strand of her long, straight, brown hair. “Oh yes.” Georgia nodded. “I definitely see the ‘bitch’ in her. But, I can handle her, don’t worry.” “I hope so because Osana’s

gonna give you hell.” Teddy pulled at his sleeve. “You can believe that.” “Well, let’s get this show on the road.” Georgia ran her hands through her hair. “It’s time they meet Miss Georgia Arnett.” They headed for the table. **** “Will I see you later tonight?” Ulysses whispered in Wanda’s ear.

“Excuse me?” She glanced at Osana and whispered, “She might hear you.” “I don’t care.” He took her hand with an eager smile. “I’m going crazy being this close to you and not having you.” “I told you it’s over, Ulysses.” She snatched her hand away then smiled at passing guests. “This is your uncle’s

birthday party for his memory. Getting with his wife should be the last thing on your mind tonight.” “It’s always on my mind.” He blew his warm breath toward her cheek. “I think of you all the time. I won’t stop until—” “Stop it,” she whispered, glaring at him. He leaned back, smirking.

“Who is that?” Osana pointed to Teddy and a young, black woman that Wanda hadn’t ever seen. The woman appeared to be around Osana and Ulysses’ age and she strutted through the guests with confidence as if the party were for her. She looked stunning in the black dress that clung to her large bosom, small waist, and pronounced hips. She had

luscious, almond-brown skin, slanted eyes, and a wide nose that brought attention to her sunken in cheekbones. Her long, straight hair swayed from side to side as she moved and her plum lipstick sparkled under the lights. “Damn, she’s something.” Ulysses tore his gaze off Wanda. “Kinda looks like Uncle Anthony.” He chuckled, sipping champagne.

“What a stupid thing to say.” Osana huffed. “Why would she look like Anthony?” Shit. Wanda held her breath as butterflies filled her stomach. Wait a minute. It can’t be. Could it? Wanda gripped the edge of the table as Teddy and the woman

approached. “Hello, all,” Teddy said. “Uncle Teddy.” Ulysses dipped his head. “Glad you could make it. We —” “Who is this?” Osana pointed to the woman. Teddy smiled. “She’s my special friend.” The woman smiled, allowing

Wanda to notice that she had Anthony’s cheekbones. “God, Teddy.” Osana grimaced. “You’re old enough to be her father for god’s sake.” “He’s not my date,” the strange woman said. “Get your mind out of the gutter.” “Then who are you?” Osana looked her up and down. “This is a

private birthday party, and you weren’t invited.” “She’s with me, Osana,” Teddy said with an obvious fake smile. “She’s my guest.” “Does she have a damn name?” Osana stood. “Something feels off here.” “Do I threaten you somehow?” the woman asked. Wanda sipped champagne while

staring at her. “Threaten me?” Osana chuckled. “In case you don’t know I’m Osana Royal and we’re celebrating my deceased father’s birthday.” “Your father?” The woman stood back. “From what I hear he didn’t have any children or at least not any he claimed.” Wanda’s mouth fell open.

“Anthony was my stepfather.” Osana squinted. “Teddy, who the hell is she?” “Yeah go on and tell her.” The woman smiled. “I can’t wait to knock her off her high horse.” Osana got in the woman’s face. “Who the hell do you think you are?” “Enough.” Teddy stood between them. “Wanda, I need to speak to you in

private.” “What for?” Osana snapped. “You bring some stranger to my father’s party and act like it’s a big secret? Whatever you got to tell Momma you can tell us.” “I’m not talking to you.” Teddy gestured to Wanda. “Wanda, can we please talk inside? It’s very important.” “Sure.” She rose from the chair,

holding her breath.

CHAPTER TWO Wanda escorted Georgia and Teddy inside the mansion and past the stairs. The house smelled of pine potpourri. Georgia took in every expensive painting, statue, and fixture, jealous that she’d gone without for so long. “Come in.” Wanda stood aside

when they got to the living room doorway. Georgia took in Wanda’s subdued, rose-scented perfume as she walked into the spacious room with the off-beige walls and tan curtains. Wanda stood by the tan leather, 7-piece recliner sectional, and ottoman while Teddy sat in the off-beige loveseat and put his feet on the footstool.

“This mansion…” Georgia pointed to the abstract paintings on the walls. “It’s amazing. It looks like a museum or something.” “You’re her aren’t you?” Wanda’s face lit up. “You’re Anthony’s daughter.” Georgia swallowed, but a lump remained in her throat. “She is,” Teddy said. “It’s that

obvious?” “I got a feeling the minute I saw her.” Wanda cocked her head to the side. “And she looks a little like him.” “I do?” Georgia touched her face. “Your cheekbones. They run in Anthony’s family.” Wanda glanced at Teddy. “So you found her like you said you would.”

“I guess you can say being a retired private investigator comes in handy.” Teddy stood, holding out the folder. “Georgia and I took a DNA test, and it proved that Anthony was her father.” “I already know he is,” Wanda said, staring at Georgia. “Still, here are some things you can look at.” Teddy passed her the

folder. “You can see her birth certificate and even pictures of her and her mother.” Wanda looked at the photos and certificate. “You look just like Elene. Anthony showed me pictures of your mother.” “She’s dead now,” Georgia said. “What?” Wanda lowered the

items. “She passed two years ago. I didn’t know anything about Anthony being my father until Teddy connected with me. My mother never told me who my father was just that he didn’t want anything to do with me.” “Oh, that’s not true.” Wanda reached for Georgia’s hand but stopped before grabbing it. “All he wanted for

the last thirty-four years was a relationship with you. He kept up with your mother for a while when you were little but she took off. He didn’t know where you guys were for over twenty years.” “That seems like a hell of a different story than what I’ve been told.” Georgia rocked on her heels. “You have any idea how hard it was for me and my

mother? She had no skills beyond cleaning up after people. She didn’t even have a high school degree. You don’t know how much I hated that my father wasn’t there for me.” “He loved your mother,” Wanda said. “Loved her?” Georgia shook her head. “He knocked her up when she was his maid and abandoned her. That’s

love?” “You gotta understand that Anthony would never hurt someone on purpose,” Wanda said. Teddy rolled his eyes. “He loved your mother and you. You could never hate him as much as he hated himself for not being there for you. When your mother got pregnant, Anthony’s father was grooming him to

take over Spears Corp. He was under pressure from his father to stop seeing her.” “So he chose his social standing over me?” “You don’t understand how things are when you’re rich, Georgia. He hated having to ponder to his father but the family business meant the world to him.”

Georgia held her breath. “More than I did?” “When you come from wealth, there are certain standards people hold you to,” Wanda said. “My family isn’t rich like the Spears, but I grew up having to fulfill certain obligations as well. It wasn’t right for Anthony to not be there for you, but he wanted you more than anything else. Before he died, he’d

spent years trying to connect with you. It’s all he wanted.” “Okay, so he couldn’t be there physically, but he has all this damn money.” Georgia pointed around the room. “He had to know how we were living and he didn’t care?” “He tried to be there for you financially,” Wanda said. “He offered Elene money many times, but she’d

never take it.” “Wanda’s telling the truth,” Teddy said. “I remember your mother and she wasn’t the type to take handouts. She’d rather starve in the street than to take money from someone and she was so angry at your father.” “No.” Georgia rubbed her forehead. “I can’t believe my mother would’ve put us through the hell we

went through just to prove a point.” “She hated him,” Wanda said. “After Anthony refused to marry her she wanted nothing to do with him. Anthony said she vowed not to tell you who your father was.” “If I had a child, nothing could keep me from him or her.” Georgia’s voice shook as she thought of the baby she’d almost had.

“You want to know what killed Anthony?” Wanda asked. “It killed him not to be in your life all that time. When he was diagnosed with lung cancer, he vowed to find you and Teddy searched and searched.” Teddy nodded. “You got to believe me, Georgia.” Wanda sobbed. “Anthony wished everyday he could get the time

back he lost but when he realized he was dying he was so desperate to see you at least once. He never, ever got a chance to even see a picture of you.” She walked toward the couch. “He put you in his will because it was the only way he knew he could make up for not being there for you.” “He put me in his will.” Georgia stood beside the porcelain dolls on the

shelf by the window. “Yet he didn’t think enough of me to raise me?” “Anthony was a wonderful man.” Wanda walked to her. “You might only see a man with millions of dollars, but he had a big heart, and it was ten times bigger than his bank account.” Georgia glided to the end table by the couch and picked up the photo of Anthony and Wanda.

“Look at him.” Wanda touched Georgia’s arm. “Can’t you feel how much love he had from the picture?” Anthony had those same majestic good looks as his younger brother Teddy along with those cheekbones and vibrant smile. Georgia set down the photo, shaking off the wave of overwhelming emotions. “I’ve suffered more than

you’ll ever know because I didn’t have a father.” “He loved you,” Wanda whispered. “If you believe nothing else please believe that. He made a mistake. People make mistakes, Georgia. I’m sure you have too.” Georgia sat on the arm of the couch. “It’s hard to grow up poor, and it drove a wedge between my mother and

me. I resented her because she didn’t have money.” She balled a fist until her long, manicured fingernails dug into her palm. “I spent my entire childhood embarrassed and lying to people because I didn’t want them to know what kind of life we lived.” “Where have you been all these years?” Wanda asked. “Anywhere I could be to forget the

emptiness inside.” Georgia closed her eyes, fighting tears. “But it’s become a part of me, and I can’t shake it.” “You’re a beautiful young lady.” Wanda rubbed Georgia’s arm. “You came out of it, and that’s what Anthony wanted for you. He wanted you to have the best life you could have.” “I left Momma when I was seventeen,” Georgia said. “I couldn’t

wait to be grown so I could be on my own. I figured I couldn’t do any worse by myself than she did for me.” She moved from the couch. “I went to San Francisco and ended up on the streets. I did some things I regret to survive.” A tear escaped despite her fighting it. “I’m sorry,” Wanda said. “It would’ve killed Anthony to know how you suffered.”

“God sent me an angel though.” Georgia wiped the tear away. “When I was twenty-one I met this guy named Omar.” She grew warm inside. “I fell for him the moment I saw him, and I knew he’d be someone special in my life.” She looked up at the fancy ceiling fan. “His mother took me in as if I were family. I ended up staying with them and getting my life together.”

Wanda smiled. “It was just you, Omar, and his mother?” Georgia nodded. “He was white, but to us color didn’t matter.” She remembered Omar’s bright smile and how good it felt when he kissed her. “Omar had a brother a year older who had gotten his own place, so he’d moved.” She went to the window and stared into the darkness at the pristine

lawn and walkway. “After starting a new life, I could finally concentrate on my passion.” She touched the curtain. “I love cooking.” “You do?” Wanda smiled. “That’s wonderful.” “I always watched Julia Child and Martha Stewart, and I’d pretend I was cooking along with them.” Georgia chuckled. “There’s something about

cooking and having that bond with food that’s unlike anything I’ve ever had with a person except Omar.” “What do you like to cook?” Wanda asked. “Italian.” Teddy sat down on the loveseat, grinning. “She’s one hell of a cook too. She made this fancy Italian dish for me with red wine and it blew me away. Better than anything you’d get

from your cook or a five-star restaurant.” “I love Italian food too.” Wanda walked up behind Georgia. “It would be a privilege to taste some of your cooking.” “Omar’s mother paid for me to go to culinary school. I’m a sous chef.” “Wow.” Wanda put her hands together. “Anthony would be so proud.”

Georgia walked away from the window. “I worked at different restaurants and got a steady gig but things didn’t work out as planned.” “What happened?” Wanda asked. “Well, when Omar and I were twenty-four we moved in together. My career was blossoming, and he was doing well as a lab technician for a

medical clinic.” Georgia shook her head. “I don’t know what the hell went wrong, but he got on that stuff. He got a coke habit after hanging with some guys he worked with and everything went downhill from there.” “God. Georgia, I’m—” “If you say you’re sorry one more time…” She glared at Wanda. “Omar’s mother, his brother, and I tried

to help him but once he was hooked that was it. Then if things weren’t stressful enough I got pregnant.” Wanda gaped. “You have a child?” “No.” Georgia tightened up but the painful memories crept in anyway. “I aborted my baby.” Wanda stared at her, batting her eyes.

“I couldn’t bare my child growing up like I did without a father and Omar couldn’t be a father with the way he was.” Georgia closed her eyes as tears fell. “I…I hated myself for doing it, but I didn’t have a choice.” She stared at the gold and beige lines in the Taj Mahal Oriental rug. “Then Omar died.” “Died?” Wanda gasped, touching

her chest. “How did he die?” Georgia turned away. “He shot himself.” “Oh.” Wanda pressed her hands to her face. “Georgia.” She wiped tears. “What doesn’t kill us strengthens us, right?” “I didn’t know you’d been through so much.” Wanda turned Georgia toward her.

“It’s been ten years since that’s happened.” “We all go through things, Georgia,” Wanda said. “Some might not experience anything as horrible as you have, but the only way to be happy is to accept it.” “I didn’t come here to make amends.” Georgia swiveled from Wanda’s hold. “I hate Anthony so there’s

no reason to pretend. I’m here for my money.” She crossed her arms. “Teddy told me I’m a primary beneficiary to Anthony’s will. Is that true?” Wanda sighed and nodded. “I get the bulk of his estate and even this house is mine?” Georgia scratched her forehead. “Is that true?” “Yes,” Wanda said. “And the house and property is partly yours.”

“Hot damn!” Georgia slapped her hands together, laughing. “I guess dear old Daddy really wanted to make it up to me, huh?” “I don’t believe that’s the only reason you came,” Wanda said. “I know you want to know more about your father more than anything. I can tell.” “Wrong,” Georgia said. “I couldn’t care less about him.”

“I saw how you acted when you saw his picture just now.” Wanda squinted. “You’re curious of the man who you feel abandoned you. How could you not be?” “The only thing I’m curious about is having millions of dollars in my bank account.” Georgia twirled around. “And this gorgeous mansion to die in.” “No.” Wanda waved her finger.

“You can’t fool me, Georgia. I know it’s eating you inside that you didn’t know him.” “I want my money.” “Our lawyer will get you the papers and break down everything for you but he’s away right now,” Wanda said. “He had a death in the family.” “But it really is all mine?” Georgia’s heart flip-flopped.

“Yes.” Wanda stuck out her chin. “But there’s a condition. I don’t expect you to accept what Anthony did or to love him, but his wish was that if you showed up, you’d get to know him and us. He loved us and he loved you.” Georgia turned away and tugged at her earring. “I didn’t come here for no family reunion. I came here for money.” “And it’s gonna take some time

for you to get your money, but I promised Anthony that if you ever showed up I would tell you about him so you’d at least know the wonderful person he really was.” Georgia puffed out her jaws. “Why should I grant him his wish?” “You don’t owe Anthony anything,” Wanda said. “But you owe it to yourself to know everything about

him. What’s the harm in that? Are you afraid that you’ll end up loving him?” “Please.” Georgia huffed. “This property is half yours,” Wanda said. “Why not stay and give yourself a chance to fill that hole in your heart?” “Fine.” Georgia nodded. “Thank you.” Wanda pulled her into a soothing embrace. “I’ll clear the

guests out, and we can tell Ulysses and Osana about Georgia.” Georgia moved from Wanda. “Great,” she mumbled.

CHAPTER THREE Georgia strolled around the fabulous grounds and ended up at the elaborate pool, surrounded by small, individual tables and chairs. She grabbed one of the aluminum chairs with the green fabric sling and sat at the little, round glass table, staring as the water drifted back and forth in the

wide, circular pool. “Shit.” She rubbed her forehead. “I don’t think I can do this.” “You don’t think you can do what?” a sexy, male voice came from her right. Georgia jerked up when she saw the striking, white man with the smooth, tanned skin. “Jesus.” She jumped from the

table, entranced. No way could it be! Kel Youngblood could not be standing in front of her tonight…at this moment. He scratched through his curly, brown hair. “Wow.” He sauntered up to her shirtless, in shorts and flip-flops. “What’s the odds I come out here for a nightly swim and run into Georgia Peach?” He licked his damp lips. “I

never thought that would happen in a million years.” “Kel.” Her heart skipped a beat. “What the hell are you doing here?” “I think I should ask you that question.” He scratched his navel. “I work here. I’m the gardener.” “Wait a damn minute.” She pointed at the concrete pavement. “You work here? Here?”

“I live here too.” He pointed toward the fence. “My place is on the other side of the fence by the greenhouse.” He raised his head to where his chestnut-brown eyes caught the lights over the walkway. “What are you doing here?” “Wait a minute!” Georgia walked around in a circle, waving her arms. “You gotta be kidding me. What is the

chance I’d run into you here?” “Well…” He leaned back, batting his eyes. “I know we weren’t each other’s biggest fans back in the day, but I didn’t expect this kind of reaction. Besides, I’m the one who should be mad after you ran off ten years ago and didn’t even contact anybody. I thought you’d fallen off the face of the earth or died.” Georgia rocked with her hand

over her mouth, gazing at his sparkling teeth. “I don’t believe this.” “Man.” Kel looked her up and down. “You look great.” You look scrumptious. “So do you.” Georgia clasped her hands behind her back. “I can’t believe this is happening.” “Do you feel bad it’s happening?” He walked closer to her. “I

won’t lie and say that seeing you doesn’t bring back all that pain with Omar and all.” She’d always cared about Kel even if she hadn’t the guts to let him know it. “I’m sure you feel the same way,” he whispered. “I don’t want to go back to those memories and if I’m around you, it’ll all

come back.” “How do you think it’s been for me the last ten years after my brother committed suicide?” He scoffed. “I think about Omar every single day. I didn’t have the luxury of running off like you did.” He walked in behind her. She felt him sniffing her. His warm breath tickled the back of her shoulder. “You think it’s easy for

me to see you, knowing you’re the reason he killed himself?” She swung around and faced him. “How dare you?” “It’s the truth. He killed himself because you dumped him.” “See that’s why I got nothing to say to your ass!” She turned to leave. “Wait.” He grabbed her wrist. “I’m sorry. That was fucked up to say.”

“You damn right it is.” Her lips trembled from sorrow. “How do you think I feel knowing you blamed me for his death?” “I was wrong.” He slid his hand to hers. “I was just so upset, Georgia. A part of me died when he did.” “The same happened for me.” “He loved you more than he loved himself.” He stared into her eyes.

“You were the only thing keeping him clean.” “I loved your brother, Kel.” She touched her chest. “I wanted to marry him and being pregnant made me so happy, but I couldn’t bring a child into that life.” “I wish you’d thought it through more.” He looked at the ground and shook his head. “To abort the baby

without telling anyone—” “I did what was best for me, and I’m sick of apologizing for that.” She plopped in the chair. “Can we talk about something else? It’s been ten years. I’m sure you got stuff you wanna ask me.” “Let’s start with why you’re here.” He glared at her. “And don’t give me any bullshit.” “Who do you think you’re talking

to?” “I know you, Georgia.” He rocked from side to side. “You’re up to something or you wouldn’t be here. How do you even know the Spears?” She stood up, getting in his face. “It’s none of your business.” Teddy came through the walkway. “Oh hey, Kel.” “Hello, Teddy.” Kel smiled.

“Can’t believe you didn’t show up for Anthony’s party.” Teddy slipped his hands in his pockets. “Just couldn’t get rid of this headache I have.” Kel stared at Georgia. “Funny it seems to have gotten worse in the last few minutes.” Georgia snickered at the jab. “I think I’ll try to sleep it off.” Kel gestured to Georgia. “It was

interesting to see you again.” He nodded at Teddy as he left through the fence. “What was that about?” Teddy asked. “You know Kel?” “I can’t believe he works here. Why didn’t you tell me?” “He’s the damn gardener.” He shrugged. “Why would I think to mention him to you? Who is he to you?”

“He’s just a part of my past I want to forget.” She stroked her cheek, shivering all over. “Is he gonna be a problem?” He got closer. “Settle down, okay?” She pulled on one of his shirt buttons. “I can handle Kel if I have to.” “Come on. Wanda’s cleared the guests out.” He gripped her arm and

winked. “Time for the rest of the clan to meet Anthony’s long-lost daughter.”

CHAPTER FOUR As Georgia expected, Ulysses and Osana were beyond shocked when Wanda told them about Anthony’s affair and Georgia being his daughter. Ulysses still kept that mechanical gaze, but his mouth dropped, and he wiggled his hands as if he had no clue what to do with them.

Osana rose from the living room couch with her mouth even wider than Ulysses’ was. “Okay, let me get myself together.” She rubbed the back of her neck with both hands. “Did you say what I think you said, Momma?” “I did. Georgia is Anthony’s daughter.” “Wow.” With his mouth dragging on the carpet, Ulysses lowered himself

to the loveseat. “I…I don’t know what to say or think. Uncle Anthony had a daughter, and he didn’t even tell me about her?” He looked at everyone with a puzzled expression. “Uncle Anthony didn’t keep secrets. I’d expect this from anyone but him.” Osana grimaced at Georgia. “It’s bullshit.” “Why?” Georgia asked. “Is it so

impossible to believe Anthony had a daughter you didn’t know about?” “Bingo, bitch,” Osana yelled. “Wait a minute.” Wanda pulled Osana’s arm, but Osana snatched free. “No you started it, Momma.” Osana kept her gaze on Georgia. “Now I’m gonna finish it.” “Is that right?” Georgia raised her eyebrow. “How so?”

“I know this isn’t true because Anthony wouldn’t have hidden this from me,” Osana said. “He’s my father, and I loved that man more than anything. My mother married Anthony when I was four and he raised me as if I was his own from the beginning.” She shook her finger in Georgia’s face. “He probably even loved me more than Momma does.” “That’s ridiculous, Osana,” Wanda

spat. “Everything isn’t about you.” Ulysses gripped his head. “I don’t believe this.” Osana continued, “Anthony was my father in every, single way, and I loved him too much to let you pull a scheme on him.” Georgia scrunched up her nose. “What the hell are you talking about?” “I’m talking about you lying to

get Anthony’s money!” “Teddy found me, Miss Thang.” Georgia stuck out her neck. “I didn’t ask for any of this, and I didn’t know Anthony Spears was my father until Teddy told me.” “He’s not.” Osana clenched a fist. “You are not his damn daughter, and I’ll never believe that for a second!” “Osana, calm down.” Wanda

reached for her, but Osana moved away. “I’m not calming down, Momma! I’m not letting some gold-digger steal Anthony’s money!” “Okay, I gotta go.” Georgia shook her head as she went to the doorway. “If I stay here one more minute I’ll snatch every strand of weave out her head.” “Really?” Osana marched

toward her with Wanda holding her back. “It’ll be the last thing you snatch!” “Stop it!” Wanda shoved Osana aside. “I know you’re angry, but you’ve gotta face the truth.” “What the hell is wrong with you?” Osana yelled in Wanda’s face. “How could you keep this secret?” Georgia frowned. “You talk to your mother like that?”

“Don’t worry about how I talk to my mother.” Osana charged her, but Wanda held her back. “You worry about what I do with you.” She struggled against Wanda’s grip. “Let me go!” “No.” Wanda held her tighter. “You’re acting a fool and need to listen to reason.” “I’m not listening to shit!” Osana threw her arm up. “Anthony was my

father. He left me in charge of Spears Corp.” She nodded at Georgia. “That’s right. I run it, and I own half the company. I’m his daughter. Do you hear me? You’ll never be a part of this family!” Georgia blew on her fingernails. “The DNA test says different.” “I want to see this test.” “I don’t have to show you a

damn thing.” Georgia grinned. “You’re so jealous you can hardly see.” “Jealous?” Osana faked a laugh. “Sweetie, I’m a multimillionaire. I run a billion dollar computer software company, and I have more class in my pinky toe than your ratchet ass has in your entire body.” “Ratchet? Oh, no.” Georgia snatched off her earrings.

“Whoa, hold on.” Teddy grabbed her before she could get to Osana. “Let me go, Teddy.” Georgia struggled with him. “I’m gonna teach this trick once and for all that nobody talks to me like this.” “Let her come for me, Teddy!” Osana jumped up and down behind Wanda. “Let the bitch come, and I’ll send her ass back where she came from

with my foot up her ass.” “Stop it!” Wanda shook Osana. “Sit down!” “I’m not sitting down anywhere until this gold-digging slut is out of this house.” “Did she call me a slut?” Georgia tried to pull away from Teddy. “Who do you think you’re talking to? I don’t need this shit!”

“Go!” Osana pointed to her. “Because no one wants you here. You’re stinking up the place!” “She’s not going anywhere.” Wanda shook her head, sighing. “She’s Anthony’s daughter, and she took a DNA test!” Osana gripped her hips. “Did you see the damn test?” “I don’t have to see it.” Wanda

exhaled. “She and Teddy took it, and he vouches that it matches.” “I have no reason to lie,” Teddy said. “Georgia’s his daughter and there isn’t a damn thing you can do about it, Osana.” “Wanna bet?” Osana brushed her hand over her face as if to compose herself. “I don’t care what some DNA test said, if it said it at all. My father’s

money is not yours.” She started toward Georgia again, but Wanda held her ground. “You’re never going to get his money, okay?” “I don’t know how you’ll stop me when I own this mansion and the bulk of his estate.” “What?” Osana shrieked, glaring at Wanda. “What is she talking about?” “Georgia owns part of the

mansion,” Wanda said with her head down. “She also owns the bulk of his estate.” Osana opened her mouth. “What —” “But, you and I are still equal owners of the company,” Wanda said. “She owns no part of Spears Corp.” “My god.” Osana stumbled back. “Are you okay?” Ulysses asked.

“She owns the bulk of his estate?” Osana wobbled from side to side. “She’s a primary beneficiary like your mother,” Teddy said. “That’s the way it is. You don’t have to accept it, but you can’t change it.” “This can’t be happening!” Osana hurried to the door. “Osana, wait!” Wanda ran out

after her. “Jesus.” Ulysses took a deep breath. “Well.” Teddy swung his arms. “That went better than I expected.” Georgia pushed her face into her palms and sighed.

CHAPTER FIVE “Get away from me.” Osana marched down the walkway toward the pool. “You have to listen.” Wanda ran in behind her. “Osana, please.” She rocked with her eyes closed. “I do not believe what you said in there.”

“Honey, I’m sorry.” Wanda grabbed her by the arms. “Neither Anthony nor I intended to hide things, but he felt it was best to not say anything unless Georgia ever showed up.” “What the hell is going on here, Momma?” She burst into tears. “I know you and I weren’t ever that close, but you could’ve told me this.” She pulled a chair from the table and sat. “How could

Anthony keep this from me?” “He didn’t do it to hurt anyone.” Wanda knelt beside her. “Osana, he loved you and nothing can change that if that’s what you’re worried about.” “I’m worried about us being conned into giving a stranger Anthony’s estate. That’s what I’m worried about.” “The DNA test proves the truth. She even looks like Anthony.”

“Stop it!” Osana jumped up. “She is not his daughter.” “What are you so afraid of? You’ll still have plenty of money, and you still own half the company.” “This isn’t about money or the company.” She walked from the table. “This is about me being the only one who loved Anthony enough to fight for him.”

“How dare you say that?” Wanda stood. “I loved Anthony more than you ever could.” “Is that why you’re so quick to take a stranger’s word and give her everything he worked so hard for?” “If she’s his daughter then yes I’ll give her everything if Anthony wanted it that way.” “Something’s not right.” Osana

pointed to the house. “Trust me for once when I tell you to throw Georgia out of here and forget you ever met her.” “I can’t do that.” Osana waved her index finger. “As God is my witness I will do all I have to, to prove that Georgia Arnett is a fake. I don’t know how I will, but I will.” She headed toward the house.

“She’s going to stay here.” Osana stopped and exhaled. “You need to give her a chance.” “Momma, I don’t have to do anything but breathe and die. Georgia stepped her ass into this house so I hope she’s ready to tangle with me because I won’t let up on her for a second.” **** An hour later, Wanda and Teddy

took Georgia on a complete tour of the Spears Mediterranean-style mansion. Wanda even gave Georgia a peek at Kel’s home on the other side of the property. The cute, little yellow-panel house matched Kel’s low maintenance personality. The serene house and immaculate yard looked like something out of a painting. When they went inside the

mansion, Wanda introduced Georgia to the wait staff. Though the mansion seemed stuffy at first glance, it provided many alternatives to boredom. Not only did it have the cascading pool for recreation, but also the deluxe patio was big as a football field. It also had a tennis court, a wreck room full of games and sports equipment, a gym equipped with several

exercise machines, a giant aquarium, and even a built-in private spa and salon. Often, Wanda and Osana called in their private masseuse and beauticians for the star treatment. The kitchen exceeded Georgia’s expectations. The grayish walls and nude, marble countertops were spotless. Four stainless steel sinks, and a huge refrigerator took up half the space.

“You okay?” Teddy asked Georgia as he stood beside the gigantic, self-starting dishwasher. “Uh…” Georgia struggled to come up with any words. “This place is outrageous.” “Time to see the upstairs.” Wanda put her arm around Georgia’s shoulders and escorted her to the elevator.

“Man.” Georgia stepped in, holding her breath. “An elevator too?” “Don’t let it overwhelm you.” Teddy squeezed into the elevator and stood in the corner as Wanda pushed the button. “Don’t let it overwhelm me?” Georgia took deep breaths. “It’s a fuckin’ elevator, Teddy.” Wanda and Teddy laughed.

CHAPTER SIX The elevator doors opened, and everyone stepped out onto the long, lemon-scented hallway. “Where’s that lemon smell coming from?” Georgia sniffed. “Those.” Wanda pointed to a glass container of plastic lemons sitting on a stand in the hall.

Teddy smiled. “Wanda loves lemons.” “This is your room.” Wanda stopped at the first bedroom and pointed down the hall. “That’s my bedroom down there and Osana’s is around the corner.” She opened the door and flicked on the light. The simplicity of the room enchanted Georgia. She found it

refreshing to have a break from the stuffiness. “Is it big enough for you?” Wanda asked. “It’s nice.” Georgia strolled around, taking in the fresh-scent of the crisp sheets. “I love the smell of clean sheets.” She touched the tan, floral top sheet. “I love the smell of something clean.”

“I love the way you look at the world.” Teddy smirked, rubbing his hands. “It’s a shame Ulysses and Osana are so spoiled they take everything for granted.” Wanda touched the front of the light-brown, Ponderosa dresser. “It fits you, Georgia.” She walked across the hardwood floor and stopped at the computer desk with the hutch. “I’m glad

you like it.” Georgia touched the lamp on the desk. “It has subtle charm like me.” Teddy grinned. “I wouldn’t exactly describe you as ‘subtle’.” Wanda smiled. “The lamp is so bright you don’t even need the overhead light when you’re working on the computer.” “My laptop died on me,”

Georgia said as she went across the room and looked out the window. “And you’ll have a brand new one waiting for you by the time you wake up.” Wanda winked. “Let me know what kind and I’ll send Gino to get you one.” “Just like that, huh?” Georgia leaned her head against the curtains. “I guess I should be happy with the star

treatment?” She closed her eyes. “What am I doing?” she whispered. “Are you all right?” Teddy asked. “I think she’s overwhelmed by all that’s gone on tonight.” Wanda patted Georgia’s back. “We can get to know each other a little and you’ll feel better.” “Her bags are in the car,” Teddy said. “How about I go bring them in and

give you two some time to talk?” “Bags are in the car, hmm?” Wanda chuckled at Georgia. “So you planned to stay all along?” “It’ll be good for you two to talk.” Teddy backed up to the door, smiling. “You sure you’re okay, Georgia?” She nodded. He smiled as he left.

Wanda sighed with her hands behind her back. “Strange night?” Georgia sat on the edge of the king-sized bed. “I still can’t believe Kel works for you. How did he end up being your gardener?” “He was the gardener for a friend of ours, and Anthony became acquainted with him. We loved how much he cared about flowers, and I’d

been looking for someone to take special care of my greenhouse.” “I always thought Kel cared about flowers more than people.” “Why would you say that?” “He seems to relate to flowers and plants better than he does humans.” “Kel is one of the kindest people I’ve ever known,” Wanda said. “He and Anthony became close, and they

struck up this father and son bond. They confided in each other a lot.” Georgia stroked her hair. “Teddy told me you and Anthony met at some charity event your families took part in.” Wanda tilted her head. “You heard of Sweet Heaven? The bakery chain?” “Yeah.” Wanda beamed. “My grandfather

started that company and my father took it over.” “Man.” Georgia reflected on the delicious pastries she’d gotten there many times. “I love their pumpkinflavored doughnuts.” “I’m a trained pastry chef.” Wanda bowed with pride. “You’re a chef?” Georgia gaped. Wanda sat beside her. “Surprised

we have something in common besides Anthony?” “No offense, but you don’t look like you’ve ever cooked in your life.” Wanda stuck out her lips and held her hips in a playful manner. “I came out of my mother baking for your information.” “Is that how you won Anthony over? I can vouch that a way to a man’s

heart is to his stomach.” Wanda nudged her. “Believe me my cooking was the last thing he thought about.” Georgia grinned and then remembered not to get attached. “Yes Anthony and I met at a charity event.” Wanda grinned, looking up in a daze. “He was thirty-five and already the CEO of Spears Corp., and I

was twenty-four with a kid.” She parted her lips. “We struck up a conversation over Sweet Heaven, and he wanted to know more about the baking business. We got together, just talking as friends. I thought he would try to buy our company or something with all the questions he kept asking.” Georgia smiled. “But I realized he just wanted an

excuse to see me. We clicked because we saw the good in each other. We believe in being the best people we can be, you know?” Georgia looked down. “His parents hated me at first.” Wanda grinned. “But, we learned to get along.” “His parents are dead, right?” Wanda nodded. “His dad had lung

cancer too.” She fanned her hand. “The man smoked like a thousand chimneys.” They laughed. Georgia crossed her legs at the ankles. “What happened to Osana’s dad?” “He took off right after she was born.” Wanda sniffled. “He never wanted anything to do with her. She got the best father she could ask for in

Anthony.” “How come you and Osana don’t get along?” “I don’t want to talk about that.” Wanda exhaled into her hands. “You and Ulysses get along?” Wanda held a strange expression. “Yeah.” From how he looked at you at the party you get along very well.

“Teddy doesn’t seem to trust him,” Georgia said. “He thinks Ulysses is bad news.” “He wasn’t a perfect child.” Wanda lifted her chin. “Like a lot of guys, he got attracted to the wrong peers and strayed. It took love and patience on Anthony’s part, but he turned Ulysses around. He’s an executive at Spears Corp. He has his life together now.”

“Your tone and expression changes when you talk about Ulysses.” Wanda chuckled as if to blow off Georgia’s comment. “There’s friction between us but nothing serious. He’s Anthony’s nephew and because of that I’ll always care about him.” Georgia contemplated her explanation but knew there was more to the story. “He and Osana are like brother

and sister?” “No.” Wanda grimaced. “They’re dating.” “They’re dating?” Georgia remembered how Ulysses couldn’t take his eyes off Wanda. “I couldn’t tell. They don’t seem close like that.” “Were you and Kel friends?” “I guess.” Georgia stuffed her hands between her thighs. “Kel was

always so critical of me though.” “Maybe he was critical because he cared about you. Did you care about him?” Georgia dropped her head and sighed. “Should I say, ‘Do you’? You seem to.” “Where is this coming from?” “Your eyes.” Wanda gestured to

them. “They light up whenever you mention his name.” Teddy walked in. “Getting acquainted? Your bags are in the hall, Georgia.” “You can bring them in for me,” she said. He did. “You getting to know each other?” “Yep.” Wanda stood from the

bed. “We’ve had a very interesting conversation.” Teddy gestured to Georgia. “Mind if I speak to Georgia before I go?” “Fine with me.” Wanda went to the door. “Georgia, if you need me, let me know. If you need Gino or Carol then you can just page them on the phone.” Georgia gaped at the phone by

the bed. “There’s a pager for the help on the phone?” Wanda laughed as she backed out of the room. “See you in the morning.”

CHAPTER SEVEN “She likes you.” Teddy peered at Georgia. “Why are you looking at me like that?” “You’ll get drawn in by Anthony’s memory.” His mouth rose in the corner. “People cherished him when he was alive and act like he’s a God

since he’s been dead.” “That’s a fucked up thing to say, and I won’t get drawn into anything.” She curled her leg up underneath her. “How have you functioned all these years being so jealous of him?” “I’m not jealous of anyone.” “No? Didn’t you put this scheme together because of jealousy? You’ve hated Anthony all these years because

your father left him all the money and cut you out. Isn’t that why you want me to pretend to be Anthony’s daughter in the first place? So we can split ‘my’ inheritance?” “And you’re more than willing to play the part, aren’t you?” He leaned over her. “I want revenge for Anthony getting everything, and you want revenge because you never had your daddy.” He

smirked. “What’s worse? Me hating my brother for what’s mine or you hating a complete stranger just because your own father wouldn’t have nothing to do with you? You have no ties to Anthony yet you jumped at a chance to get his money. Keep your mind on business. Do you hear me? Things get fucked up when emotions get involved.” “You don’t own me, Teddy.”

“The fuck I don’t.” He stood up straight. “I’ve been waiting all these years to get what’s mine, and I won’t let anyone ruin that.” “I’m in this as much as you are.” “Really? You’ve gotten soft with Wanda already.” “Bullshit.” She walked to the dresser and felt the smooth wood. “What about Kel?” He tightened

his lips. “What is it with you two anyway?” “Omar was Kel’s younger brother.” Teddy gaped. “What’s the chance he would work here?” “You’re telling me.” She crossed her arms. “Shit, if I’d known he was here I never would’ve agreed to do this. The last thing I need is Kel sniffing

around. He’s already suspicious.” “Well, you make sure he doesn’t get more suspicious.” “I’ll do my best.” “No.” He grabbed her. “You make sure he doesn’t fuck this up for us.” She snatched away from him. “I have everything under control.” “You’d better.” He rubbed her

chin. “If you fuck me over—” “Teddy, come on.” She sighed. “Why would I double-cross you? I want that money just as much as you do.” He went to the door. “We’ll see.” **** Kel stared out his bedroom window. He could see into the mansion as Georgia walked back and forth in her room.

Are you thinking of me? Do you know how much I wanted you all these years? He turned from the window but kept hold of the curtain. The freezing shower hadn’t taken his mind off her. She was so damn sexy. “Jesus.” He gripped his head as he sat on the bed. “Get it together, man.

Stop wanting something you can’t have.” He turned off the lamp and lay down, squeezing his legs together to stop that hungry ache within his crotch. How could he close his eyes to sleep when all he saw were those curves and that sensuous, russet skin? Will I ever touch or taste you? “Mm.” He placed his hand on his quivering cock. “How I am gonna make

it? It’s just the first night, and she’s driving me crazy.” He turned over on his side and clenched his legs together to stop the erection, but it didn’t work. “Shit.” He pressed his face in the pillow. **** Wanda awoke from a gentle tap on her bedroom door in the middle of the night. She climbed out of bed, grabbed

her robe, and opened the door. Ulysses stared back at her with those wild eyes and his designer blazer twisted. Wanda’s stomach turned from the smell of boos coming off him. “Uh-uh. Leave.” He held the door open when she tried to close it. “You don’t really want me to leave.” He wobbled, slurring

words. “Come on, Wanda. How long you gonna keep playing with me?” “I’m not playing with you, Ulysses. That’s what you don’t seem to understand.” She tried to close the door again, but he prevented it. “Get out of here before I scream and have everyone in this house running up here.” “You won’t do that.” He licked the corner of his lips. “The last thing you

want is for Osana to find out about us. If you scream then she will.” He pushed her from the door, slipped inside, and closed it. “Get out.” She clenched fists. “No.” He rocked against the door. “Go home. You’re drunk.” “The only thing I’m drunk on is you.” He pulled on his lapels. “I went home and couldn’t sleep so I had a few

drinks. I still can’t stop thinking about you.” Wanda backed up to her bed. “I told you to leave me alone.” “You can’t keep denying your heart.” “I’m not denying a damn thing! You love manipulating people and playing these games. I’m not putting up with it anymore!”

“You’re so beautiful.” He watched her as if he were in a trance. “Most of the women my age can’t hold a candle to you.” “Why are you doing this?” She huffed and puffed. “Osana loves you and this would kill her.” He moved from the door. “You know what’s going on with Osana isn’t serious.”

“It is to her.” He took measured steps toward her while she moved back. “Don’t come near me.” She held her arm out toward him. “I mean it, Ulysses. It’s over!” “We’re not doing it your way anymore, Wanda.” He stopped inches from her, his expression growing more eerie by the moment. “I’m staking my

claim.” He pushed her against the wall. “Ulysses!” She struggled as he tried to kiss her. “No!” She pushed his face away. “Listen—” “No, you listen.” He held her arms to her side. “All these years I’ve ignored my feelings for you because of my uncle.” He breathed his alcohol breath in her face. “But he’s not here, and I don’t have to pretend anymore.” He licked her

cheek. “Get off!” He pinned her arms on the wall. “I’ve loved no one like I’ve loved you, Wanda.” “Uh…” She clenched her face. “Stop.” “This didn’t just start a year ago when we slept together.” He chuckled, wheezing. “No. Honey, I wanted you all

this time. Ever since I moved into this house.” “Ulysses!” She pressed her knees against him. “I hold the cards because the last thing you want is Osana to find out about us.” He grabbed her head and forced her lips to his. “Ugh.” She gagged from his nauseating breath.

“Osana already hates you.” He panted. “If she found out we had an affair you’ll never fix your relationship with her. You’re the one who has the most to lose.” “Stop, Ulysses.” He kissed her neck. “You know you don’t want me to.” “I do.” She pushed at him again, but he remained rigid as a steel fence. “I

swear to God I do.” She turned her face left and right to thwart his kisses. “I don’t know,” he sang the last word. “I’m not convinced.” He unzipped his pants. “No.” Wanda gyrated against him. “Get off. Ulysses—” “Sh.” He put his finger over her lips. “You’ll like it. Just like you used to.”

“I said no!” She kneed his crotch. “Ah!” He fell to the carpet, holding his middle. “I’m not playing with you, boy! It’s over. We slept together a few times, and it was the biggest mistake of my life.” “You wanted me then and you still do. I was the one you came to when Uncle Anthony died. You needed me.”

“I don’t need you anymore.” She stomped to the door and opened it. “I’m not playing with your ass. If you put your hands on me again it’ll be the last thing you do.” “I’m a man, Wanda.” He straightened up, holding his crotch. “I’m not something you can use and throw away.” “I didn’t use you.”

“You can’t just cut me out of your life.” He slumped into the hall. “You made this bed now you’re gonna lie in it.”

CHAPTER EIGHT “Hmm.” Georgia stood at the doorway of the gym the next morning. “Good morning.” Osana rolled her eyes, pedaling on the exercise bike. “You’re one of those exercise freaks?” “I always exercise before

breakfast,” Osana said. “Gotta keep the body right and tight. You should try it.” “My body’s tight enough, thanks.” Georgia faked a smile. “Did you sleep well?” She threw her arms up and pretended to stretch. “I slept so peacefully. That bed felt like heaven. I still can’t believe half of this place is mine.” “I’m glad you slept well.” Osana

increased her speed, her ponytail swinging as she pedaled. “Because it’s the last peaceful sleep you’re gonna get in this house.” “Ooh. I’m scared. ” Georgia shook her hands, pretending to be frightened. “You can joke all you want.” Osana put on a slick smile. “I might be petite and pretty, but there’s a dragon in

me, and you don’t wanna see me let it out.” She stopped cycling and got her water bottle from the dispenser on her waist. “Hope you’re ready for this war. I already had your number the minute you walked on the patio.” Osana sipped then screwed the top back on her water. “You’re a con woman, and it’s not going down here.” “Takes one to know one, I

guess.” Georgia turned to leave. “So you have a past with Kel?” Georgia stopped. “Maybe.” “Interesting.” Osana snickered, leaning forward on the bike. “I bet he knows all your dirty little secrets.” “I haven’t seen Kel in ten years. He knows nothing about me anymore.” Osana glared at her. “We’ll see

about that, won’t we?” Georgia rolled her eyes and walked out the gym. **** “Bitch.” Osana hopped off the bike as soon as Georgia left. “I’ll get her ass.” She threw the water bottle across the room. “Ah!” “What’s wrong with you now, girl?” Ulysses stood at the doorway in a

crisp, crème shirt, and tan slacks. “Georgia.” She paced with clenched fists. “How am I gonna handle her being in this house like this?” “Calm down, babe.” He swayed toward her and grabbed her wrists. “I’m disappointed in you.” He kissed her. “You are too fine, too intelligent, and too high class to be worrying about some little hood rat.”

“I can’t help it.” She growled. “Ooh, she makes me so mad. It took everything I had not to strangle her.” He grinned. “What’s so funny?” “You’re jealous, aren’t you?” “Me?” She threw her head back. “Ha! Why would I be jealous of her? I should smack your ass for saying something so ridiculous.” She sat on the

mat. “You’re buying her shit now too?” “She took a DNA test with Uncle Teddy, babe.” He sat beside her with his knees up. “You gotta accept—” “You know that private investigator that worked with Teddy?” “Howard?” “I called him and asked him to look into some things for me concerning Georgia. You know…” She shrugged

one shoulder. “Under the radar.” “Damn, Osana.” “No one else is checking up on shit.” She wiped sweat from the side of her face. “I had to do something. I can’t sit back and let this happen.” “Just let it play out.” He stroked her ponytail. “If Georgia is conning us it’ll come to the light.” “How can you be so nonchalant?

He was your uncle remember?” “But we know she’s Elene Arnett’s daughter, and Uncle Anthony had an affair with her.” “I still don’t buy that Georgia’s his daughter.” She shook her head. “Anyway what happened to you last night?” She tugged on the gold ring on his left hand. “Thought you’d stay after the party and spend time with me. You

ran off.” “I’m sorry about that.” He put his arm around her. “I needed some metime.” “Were you drinking again?” “No.” He scratched his head. “Damn you’re as bad as Wanda with this drinking shit.” “You have a problem, Ulysses. That’s one thing Momma and I agree

on.” “This is why I don’t come around.” He moved his arm from around her. “I don’t wanna hear this shit every time.” He stood and brushed off his slacks. “Let’s go eat breakfast.” “I need you on my side with this Georgia thing.” She stood. “She could take everything from us. You know Spears Corp. is my life. What if she tries

to take it too?” “No one is taking anything from you. We have the best lawyers in the world even if she tried it. You heard your mother. Georgia has no claims to the company. She can’t take something that’s not hers.” “I need you now more than ever.” She wrapped her arms around his waist. “I have no one else.”

“I’m here for you.” He gave her a soft kiss. “And I always will be.”

CHAPTER NINE “My god.” Ulysses shoved a huge piece of walnut pancake into his mouth. “Ooh wee.” He dabbed his mouth with the napkin and looked at the others around the breakfast table. “I love Brandy’s cooking, but she’s outdone herself this time.” Georgia sliced off a corner of

her pancake. “I made this.” She placed a piece into her mouth. “What?” Wanda asked in midchew. “You made this?” Osana’s face dropped. “Um hmm.” Georgia chewed. “These pancakes are my special recipe.” “You’re kidding me.” Ulysses sat back, grinning. “You really can cook,

huh?” Osana glared at him. Georgia ate a piece of the slender, breakfast sausage. “Something comes over me when I’m cooking. It’s like a high.” “I feel the same way when I’m baking.” Wanda smiled. “It’s just cooking.” Osana sipped freshly squeezed orange juice. “She

didn’t devise a cure for cancer.” Wanda chewed as she watched her. “Can you be civil?” “I’m trying.” Osana laughed. “I haven’t gotten up and slapped her yet, have I?” “And we know that’s never gonna happen.” Georgia blew her a kiss. “Unless you don’t want your hand back.” “Oh, it can happen.” Osana

waved her fork. “Trust and believe.” “Osana, this is hard for Georgia too.” “What would be hard for her, Momma?” She smacked her lips. “She pops in here and gets a mansion and millions of dollars. Please explain where it’s hard for her.” “Is it always going to be like this?” Wanda set her fork down. “Your

problem is that you expect everything to go your way.” “No, my problem is with you being so stupid you’re willing to believe anything this witch tells you.” “Witch?” Georgia leaned forward. “Let’s see how much of a witch I am when this fork goes up your ass.” “Stop it, please.” Wanda propped her elbows on the table. “We

can’t go on like this. Osana, you can at least try to get along with Georgia—” “Never.” “Your mother’s right,” Ulysses said. “Can’t you try to be a little more open-minded?” “Why are you always taking Momma’s side?” “I’m not taking anyone’s side, but you need to calm down.” He set his

napkin on the table. “What did I tell you earlier? Let things ride.” Wanda checked her watch. “I gotta go.” Ulysses jerked from his chair. “Where are you going?” Osana looked at him with a raised eyebrow. “Gino and I are taking the BMW in for a tune-up.” Wanda stood.

“You want me to go with you?” Ulysses scooted his chair from the table. “I don’t mind.” “You have to work, remember?” Osana snapped. “Work can manage at least a few hours without me.” He smiled at Wanda. “What do you say, Wanda?” Georgia noted how uncomfortable Wanda acted at the offer.

“No thanks.” Wanda flashed a feeble smile. “Breakfast was delicious, Georgia.” “Thank you.” “I don’t mind, Wanda.” Ulysses stood. “It would be my pleasure to help you out.” “She said she doesn’t need your help,” Osana said. “Sit down.” “I—”

“Sit your ass down.” Osana pushed him in the chair. Georgia hid her grin under her hand. “I’ll be back later,” Wanda said. “Georgia, call or text me if you need me.” Osana scoffed. “What if I need you?” Wanda straightened her blouse.

“I’d be surprised if you ever needed me.” She left. “What’s up with you?” Osana asked Ulysses. “Why are you always so goody-goody around her?” “I wanted to help her out.” Osana picked at her pancakes. “Sometimes you act like this lovesick teenager where she’s concerned.” “There you go with this shit

again.” He shoved his plate away. “You’re always stirring up mess when nothing’s going on. Wanda’s my family as much as yours.” Osana ate the last of her sausage. “Doesn’t mean you kiss her feet all the damn time.” “I’m over this, and I’m tired of this attitude.” He jumped up. “Good breakfast, Georgia.”

She nodded. “I’ll see you at work, Osana.” He went to kiss her cheek, but she moved. “Oh, it’s like that?” She got her napkin. “What do you think?” “Fine.” He got his blazer off the back of his chair. “Bye, Georgia.” She lifted her fork. “Later.” Ulysses left.

Osana turned her heated gaze on Georgia. “What are you looking at?” “For someone so smart, you seem very clueless about some things.” Georgia giggled while sipping from her glass. Osana squinted. “What do you mean by that?” “I mean maybe you shouldn’t be so busy concentrating on me when the

real con is going on right in front of your face.” “Whatever.” Osana stood and threw her napkin on the table. “I have a billion dollar company to go run.” She closed her light-blue blazer. “And you don’t know a damn thing so keep your opinions to yourself.” She walked off with her high heels clacking against the floor.

“I know your boyfriend’s been getting it on with your mother,” Georgia whispered. **** After breakfast, Georgia strolled around the grounds and ended up at the greenhouse where Kel tended the flowers. He stacked a large container of plants on the floor and then walked right

past Georgia with the water hose. “You’re gonna walk past me and not even speak?” Georgia stepped inside. “I forgot how rude you could be.” “Not rude.” He walked through the bins of flowers. “Busy.” “Why I thought you’d pay me any attention when you’re with your precious flowers is beyond me.” She stopped at

the section of purple, red, blue, and pink flowers. “I know what these are but can’t think of the name.” “African Violet Orchids.” Kel turned his back to her as he sprayed. “How did you know what flowers I was talking about with your back turned?” He glanced around and smirked. “You’re standing by the door. The

orchids are by the door.” “Why are you always so damn sarcastic?” She flicked a bead of sweat off her brow. “People can’t have a normal conversation with you.” He came back her way, spraying flowers as he passed. “You and these flowers.” Georgia walked through, scanning the different varieties and colors. “You like

flowers more than people.” “I can tolerate flowers more than people.” They passed each other, locking eyes shortly. Georgia stopped at the section with the red flowers that had flat leaves with an extended middle. “What are—?” “Chinese Hibiscus.” She stroked the soft petals. “You

always said that you got peace from flowers. I can see that.” She closed her eyes, taking in the mixture of aromas. “It is very peaceful here, and Lord knows I need some.” She made her way toward him as he turned off the hose. “How’s your momma doing?” “You’d have to dig her up to ask.” He wrapped the hose on the hook. “She died two years ago.”

“What?” She covered her mouth. “Ms. Youngblood is dead? I had no idea.” “How could you?” He put his hands in the pockets of his shorts and shrugged. “You’ve been gone for ten years, remember?” “Oh my god.” She reached out to touch him but stopped. “I’m so sorry, Kel. How did she die?”

“In her sleep.” He rubbed the back of his head. “I was shocked because she had no medical issues and she seemed fine. I found out because I hadn’t heard from her in a few days, and you know my momma called me every day.” She nodded. “When I couldn’t get a hold of her, I went by her place and found her in

bed.” “No.” She closed her eyes. “You found her?” “I wouldn’t wish that on anyone.” He wiggled his toes in his flip-flops. “I just hope she went as peaceful as it seemed.” “I’m so sorry.” She hugged him, taking in the sweet and bitter scent of flowers that had invaded him. “I loved

your mother.” She pulled away from him and looked into his sad eyes. “She was one of those rare people who wanted to help others, and she didn’t judge or criticize them for making mistakes.” “Unlike me, right?” He poked out his lips. “You always said I picked on you.” “You never trusted me. Not from the moment Omar introduced me to you.”

“Did you ever give me a reason to?” Sweat drizzled down his face. “It’s too weird seeing you again like this.” “Like it’s easy for me?” She gaped. “Never in a million years did I expect to see you again.” “Because you didn’t want to?” He swallowed. “Or because you did?”

CHAPTER TEN “What do you want from me, Kel?” Georgia leaned back on a bin of roses. “I’d like an explanation for why you disappeared.” She turned her back to him. “My mother loved you like a

daughter, Georgia. It killed her when you left and didn’t contact us.” She laid her hand over her eyes to block the tears. “Stop always blaming me for shit.” “I’m blaming you for what you did!” He turned her around. “You can’t keep treating people like things you can discard.” “I don’t do that!”

“That’s all you ever do.” He let her arm go. “You left and didn’t give a damn about how it hurt my mother and me. You don’t care about anyone but yourself.” “I don’t wanna hear this.” She tried to walk past him, but he grabbed her. “I’ve waited to tell you this for the last ten years, and I’m not letting you

go until you hear it.” “Always your way or the highway isn’t it, Kel?” “When you left all you thought about was the pain you were in, but Omar’s suicide affected my mother and I more than it ever could you.” “Course it did.” She jiggled her arm, trying to pry it loose from his hold. “You think I’m stupid?”

“But you disappeared.” He let her go, exhaling. “Maybe if you hadn’t blamed me for Omar’s death and thrown the abortion in my face every second, I would’ve stayed.” She stuck her head in the air. “You’ve been blaming me for your pain all these years, but what about your part in that?” He held his waist and turned

from her stare. “That’s a copout, Georgia.” “No, it’s not. How come your pain is genuine, but when I give you the reason I left, it’s a copout?” “So you left because of me?” He pointed to himself. “That’s what you’re saying?” “Think back on how you treated me back then, Kel. Would you have

stayed?” He stood back as if to ponder the question. “Think of how I treated you back then and ask yourself is it because I cared or because I didn’t?” “What are you saying?” “I’ve always had feelings for you, Georgia, and I think you’ve always had feelings for me.” “I…Kel?”

“Listen.” He held her by the arms. “I was rough on you back then, but it wasn’t because you weren’t good enough for Omar. It was because I thought he wasn’t good enough for you.” “What?” “I loved Omar, but I was jealous of what he had. I didn’t think he appreciated you, and when he got on drugs it took everything inside of me not

to knock sense into him.” “You can’t be serious.” She glanced around, afraid to look him in the eyes. “Kel, are you saying you were in love with me?” He let her go. “I’m saying you deserved better than Omar whether that was me or someone else.” “That’s not all you meant.” She moved closer to him. “Is it?”

“I’d moved past you, but when I saw you last night it brought back all the emotions I’d bottled up. I hated you for a long time for the choices you made, but last night I didn’t care. I was glad to see you. It was like the cells inside me had been dead but came alive when I saw you.” “God.” She shivered with shock and desire. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I’m telling you now.” He touched a strand of her hair as a breeze fluttered through the greenhouse. “I want us to move on from the past. I’d like the chance to know you again but—” “But what?” Don’t stop now. She held her breath. This is all I’ve ever wanted. Admit what you feel for me. If you love

me, please admit it. She tugged on his T-shirt. “But what?” “I can’t until I can trust you.” He moved her hand from his shirt. “And that’s something I’ve never believed.” “Why don’t you listen to your heart and not your mind?” “It would be easier if I knew why you’re here.” He squinted. “Are you

really Anthony’s daughter? I wanna believe you but this is too much of a coincidence, Georgia.” “I didn’t come here on my own, remember?” She moved away from him. “I had no idea about these people until Teddy tracked me down.” She patted her chest. “I am his daughter, and I’m here to get what I deserve.” He twisted his lips. “Money?”

“It’s the least he could give me.” “Wow.” He shook his head. “And you wonder why I was always so critical of you.” She scoffed. “I don’t give a damn what you think of me anymore.” “Yes you do.” “I don’t have to explain myself to you, and I won’t.” She pranced out the door.

He followed her out of the greenhouse. “This family has been good to me, Georgia. Whatever you’re cooking up, don’t do it.” “I’m not running a scam. You have no faith in me do you?” The breeze blew the ends of his shorts up. “Tell me the truth.” “I just want what’s mine.” She backed away from him with her arms

out. “That’s all.” “But is it yours?”

CHAPTER ELEVEN “Ms. Royal?” Clarice, Osana’s secretary, summoned her through the speaker on Osana’s office phone. “You have an important call.” “Who is it?” Osana looked over the new software development proposal. “It’s Mr. Sidney of Swipe Play.”

Osana dropped the proposal on the desk. “Shad Sidney?” She snatched off her reading glasses. “He says it’s very important.” “Put him through, Clarice.” “Will do.” Osana tapped her fingers on the desk as she waited for the transferred call. “Osana?” a charismatic voice

asked through slight static. “Mr. Sidney.” She nibbled on the handle of her glasses. “When I came to work today I didn’t expect to get a call from the CEO of Swipe Play.” He chuckled. “I’m sure you didn’t. I’m glad I caught you.” “Let me guess.” She sat back, shaking her foot. “Are you calling to beg us into selling Spears Corp. to you yet

again?” “Maybe.” He moaned. “Or maybe I wanted to say hello.” A tingle went down her legs. “We’ve told you we don’t wanna sell.” “That’s what your mother says.” She could sense him smiling through the phone. “But what do you say?” “You don’t understand how much I love this company, Mr. Sidney. No way

I’d ever sell.” “We’ve known each other for years so no need to be so formal with the names. Call me ‘Shad’. And, you never know what will happen, right? I don’t think it’s smart to close the door on an offer so prematurely. I’ve spoken to your mother about this but since you’re part owner I think you should hear my offer too.”

“What would that matter?” She crossed her legs. “We both own the company so even if I wanted to deal with you I couldn’t without my mother’s approval.” “I respected your stepfather.” He breathed into the phone. “You know how close he and my father were until my dad died. I even spoke at Anthony’s funeral, remember? I can’t believe they’re both

gone now.” She ran her finger down the edge of the desk. “I know you cared about Anthony but—” “And I care about his company. It’s time for Spears Corp. to grow even bigger.” “We’re a billion dollar company with factories all over the nation.” Osana wiggled her pen. “I think we’re

big already.” “It’s time for Spears Corp. to go global.” “Shad—” “I know the woman you are, Osana. You’re a go-getter just like I am. You want the best for Spears Corp. and you want to do Anthony proud.” “I’m aware of your plans for this company, and I admire them. But I can’t

make a move without my mother.” “Aren’t you the least bit tempted?” The way he said “tempted” made her panties melt. “Like I said…” She exhaled. “My mother told me what you’ve offered.” “Let me tell you. Don’t let your mother control you on this.”

“Oh, honey no one controls me.” She straightened up as her nipples stiffened at the sound of his voice. “No one knows what’s best for this company more than I do.” “That’s my point. Just give me the chance to talk to you about my plans. No harm in that, right?” “I don’t feel right going behind my mother’s back.”

“No strings attached, Osana. I’m just asking you to hear me out. Have dinner with me tonight at The Lone Inn so we can discuss things just you and me.” “The Lone Inn?” She licked her lips, thinking of that savory potato soup she loved. “That’s my favorite restaurant.” “I know.” He chuckled.

She sucked on the end of her pen, impressed. “Do we have a date?” he asked. “Since you know me so well why don’t you guess?” She hung up, laughing. **** That night, Osana walked through the wooden-panel door of The Lone Inn. The deep-brown walls and rustic decor

always made her feel at home. Men in fancy suits and women in designer outfits sat at the tables underneath the cozy, dim lights. Couples chatted and laughed while others enjoyed their food and toasted their drinks to whatever they were celebrating. Osana spotted the sophisticated, dark-haired white man in the navy-blue

Armani suit who sat at the secluded table in the back of the restaurant. The Maître D raced toward her, gripping her hand. “Ms. Royal!” The man smiled from ear to ear with his baldhead glistening under the lights. “It’s so good to see you.” “It’s always nice to see you too. I can’t go long without stopping in.”

“And we cherish your business. You didn’t have a reservation though.” His mouth hung open. “We strive to make our regulars have the best experience, and we’d like to be more prepared.” “I’m meeting someone.” She pointed toward the sexy, white man. “Oh you’re Mr. Sidney’s guest?” He giggled, pulling her over to the table.

Shad stood with his napkin in his hand. “Osana.” His green eyes brightened as he clutched her hand in his large palm. “I guessed right I see.” She took her purse from her shoulder. “I’m impressed.” Shad stroked his thin, closeshaven beard. “At what?” “That you knew I’d come.” She glanced at the Maître D who held a

teasing smile. “Please sit down, Ms. Royal.” The Maître D helped her into the chair and signaled for a dumpy female server. “I bet I know what you want.” He tapped the server’s arm. “Get Ms. Royal some potato soup with extra chives and some Pinot Noir.” Shad smiled wide, showing his dimples. “I’ll take the squid ink pasta

and Pinot Grigio please.” “Certainly.” The server jotted the order down and she and the Maître D walked away. “I must be slipping.” Osana clasped the table. “I was hoping I kept you guessing.” Shad sat with his shoulders back. “I’m good at reading women.” His smile sent shivers down her

spine the same way his voice had on the phone. It seemed like he got better looking every time she saw him. She straightened her ass in the chair. “How long has it been since we saw each other last?” “Anthony’s funeral I believe.” He laid his napkin in his lap. “A year?” He nodded.

“I’m always working so my mind’s always on the company.” She crossed her legs and waved, dismissively. “I tend to forget other things.” “You know what the true meaning of success is?” He wobbled his head. “It’s not having to work. It’s doing enough so everything gets done without you having to do it.”

“That’s not the real world.” She bobbed her foot. “You’re what, thirty-six and running one of the biggest software companies in the nation. Don’t tell me you’re not still putting in a lot of the work.” “Oh I am.” His neat eyebrows reached his forehead. “But I want to change that, and that’s why I’ve called you here.” His eyes narrowed. “You

look amazing in that suit.” She pulled at her blazer. “I’d say you look great too, but I wouldn’t want you to get the wrong idea.” “What idea might that be?” His eyes trailed down her chest. “That I can be sucked in by a handsome man who thinks he knows my every move. Because honey…” She leaned forward. “You don’t know my

every move and you never will.” Creases sprouted around his eyes when he smirked. “I hope I don’t because not knowing what you’ll do is what makes you so damn interesting.” Osana smiled.

CHAPTER TWELVE “Mm.” Osana took a dainty sip of the gourmet potato soup. Shad scooped pasta onto his fork and blew on it. “How’s your soup?” Osana savored the creamy, decadent mixture. “Better than sex.” He chuckled. “Not with me.” He

sucked in noodles. “Excuse me?” “It’s not better than sex with me.” He winked. “I guarantee it.” She cleared her throat and stirred her soup. “Did I make you uncomfortable?” She took a sip of wine. “I thought this was about business.”

He chewed with his head cocked to the side. “I like a little pleasure with my business. Am I making you feel weird?” She licked soup from her lip. “I can handle you.” “It sure would be fun if you tried to handle me. What did you think of my proposal?” She lifted the documents he had

presented. “Interesting.” “You love it.” He clicked his jaw. “You know how good Spears Corp. and Swipe Play could be together. We’d turn the computer software world on its ear.” “It’s tempting.” She tasted more soup. “But I keep telling you I can’t do anything without my mother’s approval.” “You can warm her up to the

idea.” “No way is that happening.” She scoffed. “Mom wouldn’t ever sell. She thinks it’s betraying Anthony.” “It would make his business even stronger. How can she walk away from that?” “I’ll think about it.” She stacked the papers. “And I guess I should say thank you.”

“For what?” He dabbed the corners of his mouth. “It’s been a while since I’ve been out to dinner.” She lifted her wine glass. “I forgot how nice it is to be appreciated.” “You don’t feel you’re appreciated?” “At work, yeah.” She swirled the wine around in her glass. “In my

personal life it’s a different story. I love running the company, but I’d like something else in my life too.” She propped her elbows on the table. “You’re dating Ulysses Spears, aren’t you?” “And how did you know that?” His eyes twinkled when he smiled. “I told you I know a lot about you.” “Something’s changed, and I

can’t understand why. At first he seemed so into me, but now he barely notices me.” “I can’t believe that.” Shad took another bite of pasta. “How can a man not notice you?” “Even though we work together, we hardly see each other anymore.” She pulled on her earring. “And when I get time with him I feel like a burden.”

“Then why do you put up with it? You’re the last one who needs to be begging for a man’s attention.” “That’s nice to hear,” she grumbled. “Any man would be lucky to have you.” He looked at her with a seductive glint. “If you were mine, you’d always come first.” “I know I deserve better.” She

ran her fork along the side of her plate. “But I love him.” “But does he love you?” He straightened up in the chair. “Ulysses should kiss the ground you walk on. Trust me. You need a change of pace.” He licked his lips. “Hmm?” “Well I couldn’t hang with Mr. Shad Sidney.” She laughed. “Not the man who goes through women like I go

through ballpoint pens.” He blushed. “Those are just rumors.” “Right.” She shook her head, snickering. “I bet you have a woman waiting at your place right now.” “Why don’t you go home with me and find out?” He rubbed his foot against her leg. “How about that?” “I eh…” She jerked her leg

away. “I’d better go.” She stood, unhooking her purse off the back of the chair. “I have to be at work early tomorrow for a meeting.” She got the proposal. “Dinner was lovely and—” “Not as lovely as you.” He kissed her hand as he stood. “I don’t want you to go yet.” She shifted her gaze to the people at the next table. “I gotta go, Shad.”

“I want to see you again.” “I said I’ll think about your proposition.” She almost drowned in his strong cologne. “Beyond that I don’t see what we need to discuss.” He pulled her close, resting his hand upon the curve of her back. “I could think of a few things.” “What would you want to talk about?”

“You’re a beautiful woman.” He lowered his mouth to her ear, wetting it with his lips. “I’d be a fool not to want to see you again.” “Talking to you about this proposal was bad enough.” She stepped back. “Anything else would be out of the question.” “I always found you sexy and tonight you’ve intrigued me even more.”

He slipped his fingers between hers. “Usually, a woman has to be naked for me to get the same arousal I get just by talking to you.” Her skin broke out in goosebumps when he looked at her, but if there was anyone she should keep her guard up with, it was Shad Sidney. She shook from her trance. “These lines won’t work on me.”

He blocked her when she tried to pass. “They’re not lines even though I knew you’d think they were.” He brushed her cheek with his finger. “Is it always this hard to get a second date with you?” “So this was a date in your eyes?” She moved his hand from her face. “I want to see you again.” He pressed his nose against hers. “Do I

have to beg?” “Tell you what...” She slid her purse strap on her shoulder. “I’ll call you if I’m interested.” She walked out of the restaurant.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN “Oh, hell.” Georgia hesitated once she got to the pool and saw Kel gliding underneath the water. She held the towel around her bikini-clad bosom and headed back inside. “Hey!” Kel shouted. “Going so soon?”

“I’m not in the mood to get into anything so it’s best I go back inside.” “I’m not looking for a fight.” He swam toward the edge of the pool. “I can be civil if you can be.” He bobbed with water seeping from those masterful pecks. “Jesus,” she whispered. “Come on, Georgia.” He did a backstroke. “We’re gonna be living

close to each other so let’s put the past behind us.” “Are you willing to do that?” “It’s a beautiful night.” He lowered himself until the water came up to his neck. “The last thing I want to do is fight.” “Fine.” She kicked off her shower shoes and undid the towel, exposing her black, two-piece.

Kel gaped as if he’d seen a ghost. “What?” She climbed into the water. He kept looking at her with that awkward expression. “What?” She slapped the water. “You’re making me feel weird. Maybe I should go back inside.” “How can you expect me to see

you in that and not go crazy?” Her face grew warm. “I take it you like this attire?” He did a twirl in the water and faced her again. “I always thought you were hot.” She grinned. “How about you?” He gave her a suggestive glare. “You think I look good?”

“Maybe.” She twirled. “I never said you weren’t attractive, Kel. It’s how you treated me that pissed me off.” “Let’s start over.” He held up his hand with his palm to her. “I’m willing to forget the past and stop bringing it up if you are.” “Okay.” “Shake on it?” She shook his hand as he

caressed hers. “Your skin’s so soft.” “I’ve been thinking a lot about what you said.” She let go of his hand and swayed to the right. “I wanna apologize for how I left.” “We said we’d forget the past.” “I know.” She squinted in the moonlight, the water tickling her skin. “I’m sorry for disappearing. Do you

forgive me?” He nodded, pointing to her swim cap. “Why do you have that thing on your head?” “I don’t want to mess up my hair.” She patted her head. “You know how much it costs to keep my hair up?” “I’m sure Wanda’s beautician will hook you up if you need it.” He did another backstroke. “Take it off.”

“Are you crazy?” She tugged on it. “My hair will look like cotton tomorrow.” “You’ll be fine. Your hair’s so pretty.” He reached for her head. “Kel,” she whispered. “Don’t.” He slipped the cap off and tossed it out of the pool. “You have beautiful hair, Georgia.” He lowered his lips to kiss her, but she jerked back.

“It’s not that I don’t want to but can we cool it a little? I have a lot going on right now.” “You’d be more comfortable if we got to know each other again. Besides being a chef, you have anything outside your career that occupies your time?” “You mean a man?” She wiggled her toes through the water. “I’ve dated

here and there but nothing that serious. After Omar, I got a little gun shy. What about you?” “I’ve had little luck in that department too.” He dipped his head in the water and came back up. “I’ve dated but none of them ever captured my heart.” “I remember you being quite the stud back in the day.” She flicked water

at him. “Yeah but it’s been hard to find anyone special.” He stared at her as if he were hinting at something. “About five years ago I fell in love with a woman and we were going strong. I even wanted to marry her, but it ended.” She drifted closer to him. “Why?” “She lied, and it almost ruined

my life. Since then it’s hard for me to trust women.” “What did she lie about?” He looked at her, shaking his head. “I don’t wanna go into that.” “It must be bad if it stopped you from marrying her. The closest I’ve been to getting married was Omar. None of the other guys I’ve dated understood me like—”

“Like Omar?” His eyes twinkled. “No.” She scratched her shoulder. “I was gonna say like you.” “I get you, Georgia.” He put his arm around her waist. “I always have.” He went in for another kiss and this time she wouldn’t fight it. She closed her eyes and relaxed her mouth, feeling the heat of his breath on her lips.

“Well, well, well.” Osana watched them from the walkway. “Isn’t this cozy?” “Shit.” Georgia floated from Kel’s hold. “I’m not in the mood for her mouth right now.” “Hey, Osana,” Kel said with obvious sarcasm and a wave to match. “Having a nice night?” “Not as nice as you two

apparently.” She walked to the pool and stood underneath the lights. “You sure are making yourself at home aren’t you, Georgia?” “It’s my home, isn’t it?” Osana stooped down beside the pool. “Not for long.” “I’ve only been here a day, and I’m already bored with your threats.” “Keep trying me.” Osana stood.

“And you’re gonna wish your skank ass never heard of Anthony Spears.” “Whoa.” Kel frowned. “I know you’re mad but don’t talk to Georgia like that.” Georgia looked at him, shocked. “Excuse me?” Osana straightened her purse on her shoulder. “You have no right to call her names. You don’t even know her.”

“Oh but you do, don’t you?” Osana rocked her head. “I bet you know her real well.” “Don’t even bother dignifying her with a response, Kel.” Georgia rolled her eyes at Osana. “She’s a spoiled little brat who wants all the attention, and she can’t take she has competition now.” “Bitch, your ass could never be

my competition.” “Enough, Osana.” Kel’s jaws filled with air. “There’s not going to be anymore name calling.” “And this is coming from the gardener?” She stuck out her neck. “What are you gonna do about it?” Kel swam toward her, pointing. “I don’t care how much you don’t like her, but you need to respect her.”

“I’m going to bed.” Georgia hopped out of the pool and stopped in front of Osana. “I own half this house, remember? You keep pissing me off I’m going to eliminate houseguests.” Osana wiggled her neck. “Ain’t no way in hell you can kick me out of here.” “You think I’m ratchet now?” Georgia slipped on her house shoes and

grabbed her towel. “Keep fucking with me and see what you get.” Georgia went inside.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN “You sure this will be all right?” Georgia asked as she and Wanda walked through the halls of Spears Corp. the next day. “If I say it’s all right, it’s all right.” Wanda sauntered down the hallway in an auburn blazer with a matching skirt and four-inch heels.

Executives and employees stood up straight when she passed, observing her authority. Wanda’s confidence made Georgia strut her stuff as if she owned the company too. “Does Osana do a good job running the company?” Georgia asked. “Yes, but sometimes she forgets what’s important.” Wanda swung her

arms as they walked. “With me, I care more about the integrity of the business and Osana cares more about making money.” They passed an office full of administrators. “Did you ever tell her how you felt?” “Why?” Wanda grinned. “She thinks she knows more about this

company than I ever could.” “Can I ask you a question?” Georgia struggled to keep up on her flimsy high heels. “Do you trust Osana?” They passed another corner and a water fountain. “That’s a good question.” Wanda stopped and stared in midair. “I feel like she’s trying to push me out.” “Why?”

“I don’t know.” Wanda continued walking with Georgia on her heels. “I guess because our relationship is so estranged, I feel I can’t trust her.” “‘Trust’” Georgia sighed. “Seems like everyone in your household has an issue with that word.” “I love Osana more than life itself.” Wanda led Georgia to a set of brown double-doors and stopped. “But

when someone hates you, how can you be sure they have your back?” “I wanna know more about you and Osana.” “Maybe I’ll tell you later.” Wanda reached for the doors. “Wait.” Georgia touched her shoulder. “Thought you said Osana’s having a meeting.” “She is, but it’s time everyone

gets to know Anthony’s long-lost daughter.” She swung open the doors and sashayed inside. The twelve people who sat around the large, oval table, jerked in their seats when Wanda and Georgia entered the room. Ulysses scooted low in his seat as if he wanted people to forget he was there.

“Morning, everyone.” Wanda put her hands together. “Sorry to interrupt but this is important—” “Have I gone crazy?” Osana rose from her chair so pissed that Georgia swore she saw steam coming from her up-do. “I must be crazy.” She threw her pen on the table. “I know you didn’t just walk up into this meeting with her.” “She has a name.” Wanda pulled

on the ends of her blazer. “Get her out of here.” Osana marched toward Wanda. “Right now. I’m not playing with you.” “Who do you think you’re taking to?” Wanda smiled at everyone else. “I didn’t mean to interrupt the meeting, but I think this is the best time.” She pulled a frozen Georgia forward. “Everyone, this is Georgia Arnett, she’s Anthony’s

daughter.” The people gasped and looked at each other. The Hispanic man still sipped from his coffee mug. “I won’t get into details,” Wanda said. “But Anthony’s known about her since she’s been born, and he prayed on his deathbed she’d show up. So—” “What the hell is this?” Osana shouted. “This is a company meeting. I

can’t believe you’d bring this mess to work. It’s bad enough I got to deal with her at home, now here?” “Anthony’s daughter, huh?” One of the bald white men smiled. “It’s nice to meet you, Georgia.” “Thank you.” She smiled, glancing at Osana. “At least someone in here has manners.” “Oh I got your manners.” A loose

strand of hair popped from Osana’s ball. “Momma, if you don’t get her out of here right now—” “What, Osana?” Wanda tapped her foot. “What are you gonna do? Georgia is a part of our lives, and you’d better get used to it.” “I want her out.” Osana got out her phone. “I’m paging security.” Wanda snatched the phone. “No

you’re not.” It brightened Georgia’s day to see Wanda at least trying to put Osana in her place. “Give me my phone, Momma!” Osana reached for it. “Osana, stop.” Ulysses stood. “You’re acting like a child.” She swiveled her head in his direction. “You stay the hell out of this!”

“See that’s the problem.” He snatched up his portfolio and headed for the doors. “You never listen.” “You don’t like how I’m acting then get out!” Osana pointed to the doors. “In fact the meeting is over!” She crossed her arms, huffing and puffing like a spoiled toddler. “Don’t have to tell me twice.” Ulysses left.

“We didn’t know Anthony had a daughter.” The gray-haired black man with the thick-framed glasses took Georgia’s hand and kissed it. “You look like him.” Georgia dipped her head. “It’s nice to meet you.” “I said the meeting is over.” Osana threw death stares at the man. The others greeted Georgia then

left. Osana slammed the table. “I won’t tolerate this disrespect, Momma.” “Why?” Wanda tossed her, her phone. “Can dish it out but can’t take it?” “This is work. Do you even care how this makes Anthony look?” She got her purse and documents. “You didn’t have to go there, Momma. You didn’t

have to bring her here and embarrass me like you did.” “This isn’t about you! You think every, damn thing is about you and I’m sick of it.” “Believe me I know everything’s not about me.” Pain echoed within Osana’s voice. “Where you’re concerned it never is.” “That’s ridiculous.” Wanda

leaned against the table. “We’re back to how I was never there for you?” “Were you?” Osana gaped. “Oh here we go again with that same song.” Wanda threw her head back. “I made sure you had the best out of life, yet I don’t give a damn, right?” “I would’ve traded every car, mansion, every damn dollar just to have a real mother.” Osana’s lips trembled.

“And in all these years you still don’t get that.” “I’ve always been there for you.” Wanda’s words shook. “It’s not fair how you keep making me the bad guy.” “Look at you and Georgia.” Osana gestured to them. “Perfect example. We’ve haven’t spent as much time together as you have with her, and she hasn’t even been here a week. When

you brought Georgia here, did you once think of how I’d feel about that?” Wanda closed her eyes. “Osana —” “Answer me.” Georgia watched Wanda from the corner of her eyes. “No.” Wanda’s shoulders slumped as if her confidence dissipated. “Now ask me…” Osana nodded.

“Am I surprised?” She left.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN “She has nerve.” Osana stormed into her office and slammed the documents on the desk. “Everyone’s lost their fuckin’ mind but me.” Clarice rushed into the room with flowers. “Ms. Royal?” “Not now.” Osana threw her

purse across the room and ripped off her blazer. “I’m so not in the mood.” She plopped in her chair. Clarice held out the gorgeous bouquet of assorted flowers. “But Ms. Royal you—” “She’s trying to drive me crazy.” Osana flipped through her rolodex. “I mean that’s it, isn’t it? My mother’s trying to drive me up the damn wall!”

“Ms. Royal—” “I’m so sick of being disrespected.” Osana gripped her head, accidentally freeing more strands from her up-do. “I work my ass off for this company and Momma sashays in here a few times a month and people kiss hers. Can you believe she walked up in that meeting today with that…ooh!” Osana slid her pen dispenser off her desk,

causing Clarice to jump back. “I wanna tear every inch of Georgia Arnett’s hair out!” “Who?” “Tell me why do I put up with my mother? Why do I keep hanging on hoping we’ll have a real relationship?” She fought tears. “And she’s not in here right now. If she were my daughter, I’d be here. She doesn’t care how upset I

am.” Clarice handed the flowers to her. “Someone seems to care.” “Flowers?” Osana sniffed them. “Who would send me flowers?” “Maybe it’s from Ulysses.” Clarice smiled. Osana pulled out the tiny envelope as Ulysses walked in. “We need to talk.” Ulysses pointed

toward the door. “Can you excuse us, Clarice?” “Sure.” She left. “Osana, we—” “Oh, Ulysses.” She jumped up and ran to him. “I’m sorry for how I acted.” She kissed him. “Momma makes me so crazy, but I’m trying. It’s sweet what you did.” She held up the envelope. “Been so long since you sent me

flowers.” “What are you talking about?” He stood back with his hand on his waist under his suit jacket. “I didn’t send you any flowers.” Her heart sank. “No?” “Look we can’t keep going like this, Osana. I want you to get counseling.” “Excuse me?” She sat on the

corner of her desk. “Counseling?” “How you acted today is inexcusable.” “Wait a minute—” “You’ve got to do something about your anger.” He stood by the window. “And this thing with you and Georgia.” He curled up his fingers. “It’s like you’re obsessed.” “I’m passionate about proving

she’s a liar because I loved Anthony.” She jumped off the desk and sat in her chair. “Obviously, more than you and Momma put together.” “I wish you’d tell me what’s going on with you.” He stroked his forehead. “I don’t even know you anymore.” “That’s rich coming from your ass.” She tossed the envelope on the

desk. “I’m the one who should be pissed off. Do you realize it’s been weeks since we even spent time together? When’s the last time we had a date or made love?” He looked at her with that blank stare. “Ulysses, I’m not a fool. Something’s going on with you. Please tell me what’s changed.” “It’s your attitude.” He shrugged.

“I find it hard to be around you. All you do now is talk about your mother. You’ve changed since Anthony died. I think you need professional help.” “Ain’t that the pot calling the kettle black? You wanna run in here with your observations about my attitude? I’m sick of being ignored by my boyfriend.” He smacked his palm with his fist. “I give you every inch of me.”

“Bullshit.” She stood. “You’re never there for me. You’re never on my side!” “That’s a crock and you know it!” “Is it?” She walked to the front of the desk. “What about the meeting now? You took my mother’s side.” “This isn’t high school, Osana!” He leaned forward. “It’s not about sides.

You were being unreasonable and making things worse.” “She brings that tramp to a company meeting, and I’m making things worse?” “You should’ve handled it like you got sense and not turn it into a damn show.” “Since Anthony died I feel like there’s no one on my side. Do you love

me, Ulysses?” “You know I do.” He closed his eyes. “But I can’t keep fighting with your anger. I don’t have the strength or desire to do that anymore.” “Are you in love with me? There’s a big difference.” She exhaled. “How come you don’t grab me and make passionate love to me like you used to?” He pinched the bridge of his

nose. “Actions speak louder than words, Ulysses. People keep telling me how they feel about me but I need them to show me.” She clenched fists. “Damn it, I need you to show me you still want me.” “You know I do.” He slumped up to her and gave her a pitiful kiss on the cheek. “Your anger just makes it hard for

me to get close to you.” “Yeah.” She didn’t believe him but was tired of fighting. “Hey, we can see each other tonight.” He kissed her. “You leave the anger at the office though, okay?” He sauntered to the door in his brown, Italian wingtips. “I love you, but you’ve got to make an effort, Osana. Please?” “I feel like I’ve been the only

one making the effort.” He shot her a tortured glance then left.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN Osana went to her desk and pushed the button on the phone. “Clarice?” “Yes?” “I’m gonna take an early lunch and get myself together.” Osana got the flowers. “I need to relax.” “Okay, I’ll hold down the fort for

you.” “Thanks.” Osana headed to the door with the flowers when her cellphone rang from her purse. “Goodness.” She got out the phone and checked the screen. Shad Sidney “Jesus, what does he want?” She answered, “Hello?” “Did you get the flowers?”

Osana gaped at them. “You?” “Who else?” He chuckled. “You thought they were from your man but got disappointed?” “Yes. I mean no.” She sniffed the flowers again. “I’m not disappointed they’re from you.” “That’s good to hear.” “This was sweet, thanks. I needed a nice surprise today.”

“Really? Having a bad day?” “Yes.” She listened as he sucked on something. “What are you eating?” “I have an addiction to chocolate lollipops.” She laughed. “You too, huh? Maybe we should check into Betty Ford. They have a clinic for chocolate addiction, right?” “Ah, see? We haven’t even been

talking five minutes and you’re already laughing. What’s made your day so bad?” “I don’t even wanna think about it.” “I must confess that I didn’t just send the flowers for nothing. I want something else in return.” She stuck her head in the air. “Why am I not surprised?”

“I want you to have dinner with me tonight at my place.” She trembled. “Your place?” “Just me and you.” He suckled the pop. “I can be your shoulder.” “I don’t think it’s a good idea.” “Might not be but who cares? Let’s throw caution to the wind and see what happens.” She imagined him sucking on her

then shook off the fantasy. “We aren’t selling the company if that’s what you’re getting at.” “Did I say anything about the company?” “But that’s what you want.” Her knees went weak. “Is it really?” He moaned. “You need to take your mind off everything, and I’m the perfect distraction.”

“My mother would kill me if she knew I was even talking to you.” “Something tells me you don’t care what your mother thinks. Don’t start now on my account.” She grinned. **** “You come here often?” Georgia followed Wanda through the spacious patio of the outside bistro. The savory

smell of garlic and marinara sauce drove her insane. “I love this place.” Wanda sat at the little white table by the decorative fence. “You ever been?” “Please.” Georgia sat down and scooted her chair to the table. “I can’t afford to come here.” “You can now, remember?” Wanda lifted the menus and passed her

one. “You’ve gotta get used to being rich.” “Speaking of that…” Georgia opened the menu. “Heard from the lawyer yet?” “He got held up but should be back soon.” Wanda glanced at the menu. “Since you love Italian food I figured you’d enjoy this place. It’s to die for.” She giggled.

Georgia sniffed the intoxicating aroma of Alfredo sauce. “I’m sorry again that you had to witness that argument between me and Osana.” Wanda flipped through the menu. “Do you think I’m a bad mother?” Georgia blew out a big breath. “That’s not my place to say. I can understand where Osana comes from though.”

“In her eyes Anthony could do no wrong.” “She’s a Daddy’s girl?” Georgia nodded. “I’ve always wanted to know what that felt like.” “I’m sorry you didn’t get that chance.” Georgia shrugged. “Yeah well…” A skinny, blonde, female server

walked up with a huge smile. “Hello, Mrs. Spears.” She and Wanda engaged in polite small talk then she took their orders and went on her way. A waiter brought them tall glasses of sparkling, pink lemonade. “Hmm.” Georgia sucked the sugary treat through her straw. “This is the best lemonade I’ve ever tasted.”

“I’m addicted to it.” Wanda pulled her straw as she sipped on it. “You said that no one could live up to Anthony in Osana’s eyes.” “God, no.” Wanda shook up her lemonade. “I can’t blame her though. The man was as close to a saint as you’d get. That’s why I married him.” She cleared her throat. “Did Teddy tell you about Saul Martinez?”

Georgia shook her head. “Saul was a little boy from El Salvador who had a rare form of cancer. He was only seven when he was diagnosed with it.” “That’s so sad.” Georgia drank lemonade. “Anthony and I vacationed around the world and El Salvador is one of my favorite places. We bought a

summer home down there.” “A summer home in El Salvador?” Georgia gaped. “Wow.” “It’s a magical place at night. The people are lovely, but many are very poor. Anthony fell in love with the place and opened a center there for orphaned children.” Georgia contemplated the fact. “That’s…that’s nice.”

“He felt like he had to do something for them, and he was someone who’d give you the shirt off his back. Saul stayed at the center and there were no doctors in El Salvador equipped to handle his rare disease. Anthony paid for him to come to the states for treatment. He paid for Saul’s treatment, rehabilitation, follow-ups, everything he needed.”

“You mean he did all that for this little boy he didn’t even know?” “Without hesitation.” She smiled. “Saul’s cancer free now.” The server returned with the sandwiches. “Here you go.” She set the large trays in front of them. “Will there be anything else?” “Do you have some hot sauce?” Georgia took the top roll of her

sandwich and examined the fancy meats and cheeses. The server nodded. “We have homemade hot sauce, yes.” “Wait.” Georgia placed the bread back in place. “You make your own hot sauce here?” “Of course.” Wanda grinned. “This is a gourmet restaurant. You expected them to have bottled?”

“Okay then bring me this homemade sauce and it better be hot.” The server laughed. “I’ll be right back.” She scampered inside. “What I was saying about Anthony is he got joy from helping others,” Wanda said. “It gave him a purpose for living. He felt since God had blessed him and his family with money he should pay it forward.”

The server rushed to the table. “Here you go.” She laid a small, round container of red sauce in front of Georgia. “Will that be all?” Georgia nodded while lifting the sauce. “Enjoy your meal.” The server left. “This is the weirdest looking hot sauce I’ve ever seen.” Georgia stuck the

tip of her finger in it and tasted it. “Whoa.” She batted her eyes. “This is hot.” She fanned. “Woo.” “Too hot?” “No but it packs quite the kick.” Georgia doused sauce on her sandwich. “Are you being nice because you want to be or out of obligation?” “I like you.” Wanda picked up her sandwich. “Is that hard to believe?”

“I wanna make sure we’re straight with each other.” Georgia bit into her sandwich. Wanda chewed. “I wish Osana had some of your qualities.” Georgia licked a crumb of bread off her lips. “What’s up with Swipe Play? Is Spears Corp. a partner with them?” “No.” Wanda waved her hand

back and forth. “They want to buy us, but we’re not selling. Shad Sidney runs the company now since his father died. His father and Anthony were close friends, but Shad seemed to change when his dad died.” “How?” “He’s always been driven but now it’s like he’ll step over anyone to get what he wants.” Wanda tore her

sandwich in half and toppings spilled out. “He kind of reminds me of Osana, obsessed with money and success.” Georgia nodded, chewing. “He claims he wants to help Spears Corp. go international.” Wanda rolled her eyes. “But I don’t buy it for a second. He wants us to sell so he can kick us to the curb. Shad’s pushing hard, but he’s getting this company over my

dead body.”

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN “Did you enjoy dinner?” Shad escorted Osana into his dimly lit living room that night. “Did I?” She patted her stomach as she walked across the black and white tile. “I eat so good when you’re around. Loved the chocolate liqueur soufflé for dessert.”

“I’m glad.” He stood widelegged in the doorway, rubbing his palms together. “Hold on.” He left the room. “What in the world is he up to?” She always loved white rooms because no matter what disarray the room was in, white always made it appear clean. Shad’s living room was as neat as every other pristine room in his

Victorian-style mansion. She strolled around the large room, checking out the fancy wall lamps and Italian furniture. She ran her hands down the soft fabric of the white chairs across from the matching couch. Shad breezed in. “I told Abby to bring us some wine from the cellar.” “Wait.” Osana swung around. “You actually have a wine cellar? I

thought that was just a rumor.” He remained wide-legged with his hands clasped in front of him. “If I could make money tasting wine all day, I would.” He laughed. “But I’m not an alcoholic if that’s what you’re thinking.” She stood beside the stone mantel fireplace with the abstract carvings on the front of it. “Your place is beautiful.”

“I’m glad you like it. I hope I took your mind off whatever’s been bothering you.” He pulled her toward the couch and sat beside her. “You can talk to me about anything.” He laid his arm on the back of the couch, his hand only inches from her neck. “I know how you feel. Sometimes I doubt people care about me too.” “Exactly.” She crossed her legs,

pulling at her skirt. “The only person I could depend on was Anthony so now I feel so alone.” “You’re not alone.” He placed his big hand on her shoulder. “Let me in, Osana. I wanna be there for you.” Shad’s shapely, blonde housekeeper walked in with a tray of wine and two glasses. “Here you go.” She set the tray on the glass table. “Pinot

Noir. Enjoy.” “Thanks. That’ll be all, Abby.” Shad opened the bottle. Abby smiled at Osana and left. Shad filled one glass halfway with the burgundy wine and passed it to Osana. “Here you go.” “Thanks.” She looked toward the doorway and right at the stairwell across the hall. “She’s attractive.”

“Is she?” He poured wine into the other glass. Osana smirked while sipping the tangy wine. “What?” He sat back with his glass. “You think something sexual is between us?” “I know you’ve dated supermodels and actresses…but she’s pretty.”

“She’s only twenty-two. She’s like a sister.” He pulled lint off his black slacks. “You act like I’m some woman chaser.” “It’s just hard to see you settled with one woman since you’ve admitted how much you love playing the field.” He squinted. “When did I say that?” “In Esquire Magazine last year.

You said you loved being single more than you ever could be married.” He shrugged, taking a swig from his glass. “I’m always upfront.” “If you’re so upfront, tell me this…” She looked into her glass, smirking. “Did you invite me here to sleep with you?” “If you’re asking me if I’d mind if you slept with me…” He laughed.

“Hell no. Look, I’m concerned with what’s going on with you.” “It turns out that Anthony had a daughter by one of his maids over thirty years ago and now the bastard’s trying to get his money.” “Wait.” Shad batted his eyes. “The girl’s in Santa Barbara?” Osana’s wine went down slow. “You know about her?”

“Of course. My father and Anthony were extremely close.” He shrugged one shoulder. “He told my father about her years ago.” “I don’t believe this.” She touched her forehead. “How could Anthony hide this from me?” She burst into tears. “Why would he do that?” “Hey. It’s okay.” He held her. “Don’t cry.” He stroked her cheek with

his finger. “You’re too beautiful to cry.” He kissed her cheek. “Her name is Georgia, and she’s my age.” She sniffled. “Teddy found her and brought her to my dad’s birthday party.” “Man.” He gaped. “I can imagine how that turned out.” She stood and walked toward the mantel. “Teddy claims they took a DNA

test, and it proved she’s the daughter but something’s not right.” She sipped from her glass.” I’ve never trusted Teddy. I’m the only one to protect Anthony now, and I’m not gonna fail him.” Shad stared at her with his head to the side. “What?” she asked. “You’re a sexy woman.” He raised an eyebrow. “You don’t know

how attractive you are when you show passion about something.” “What’s worse is how my mother is doting over Georgia.” She gripped the edge of the mantel. “She acts like I don’t exist. Can you believe Momma brought that witch into a company meeting today and embarrassed the hell out of me?” She lay her head on the mantel. “This Georgia shit is the last thing I need. I

have an interview with Santa Barbara Today in a few days.” “The local TV show?” Shad whistled. “Great deal. About what?” “They wanna interview me about how well I’ve done with the company. They’re coming to the house to film it.” “That’s great.” He beamed. “Why not concentrate on you and forget all this other shit?”

“I can’t let it go when I know someone’s hiding something.” She sat on the couch. “That’s what I like about you. At least you’re open about what you want. I respect that more than fake ass people who lie or pretend to be something they’re not.” He poked her chest. “If I were playing you it’s because I know you’d want me to.” He grabbed her by her

waist and pushed his soft lips onto his. “Mm?” He moaned in between kisses. “Aren’t I right?” She grabbed his head, savoring the flavorful kiss. “You understand me.” “I can understand you more.” His lips seized her mouth again as he pulled her blazer off one shoulder. His kisses awakened every nerve in her body, but she needed to be

cautious. “This is wrong, Shad.” She pushed at his arms. He stole another kiss, their lips smacked loudly when it ended. “Who says?” He now wore the majority of her lipstick. “I say.” She put her finger on his mouth. “My mother drives me insane, but I won’t double-cross her.” She fixed her blazer. “I gotta go.”

“This isn’t just about the company.” He took her hand as they stood. “I’ve wanted you for years. We could be good together, Osana. In business and otherwise.” “No matter what my mother’s done I can’t betray her or Anthony’s wishes.” He scratched his bearded chin. “Funny how you’re taking her feelings

into consideration when she doesn’t care about yours.” “We shouldn’t see each other again.” She wiped her lips to clean up what lipstick she had left. He gave her a rough kiss. “But what do you want, Osana?” The scent of the chocolate dessert lingered on his breath. “How long do you think you can fight this?” He gripped her buttocks.

“You shouldn’t want to. What we do is our business.” “Good night, Shad.” She moved his hands from her ass even though it felt damn good. “I’ll see myself out.” “Osana? In case you don’t know this about me then let me remind you…” He wiped her lipstick off his mouth. “I never give up when I want something.” She patted her up-do. “Are you

talking about the company or me?” “Both,” he said with a stern expression. She left.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN “I thought it would be good to do the interview out here,” said Santa Barbara Today talk show host Deena Red, three days later. Georgia peeked at the entertaining display from the side of the house. Deena directed her small crew to

set up in front of the pool. “Osana, your pool is gorgeous, and I think it gives a certain ambiance for the interview,” Deena walked around waving her hands. “Do you agree?” Georgia rolled her eyes. “I’m fine with what you wanna do.” Osana sat at the table while the make-up woman prettied her up. “Just make sure I look fabulous.” She held her

robe closed. Deena laughed. “Honey, you don’t have to worry about that.” She took out a tiny notepad. “I’d like to run things by you.” “Okay.” “We can take as many takes as you need. I want you to be as comfortable as possible. Right now you’re the enemy.”

“The enemy?” Osana wiggled her nose as the make-up artist doused it with cover-up. “You’re everything people hate.” Deena waved her hands as if she were fanning smoke. “You’re young, you’re beautiful, and you’re filthy rich. We want to get those preconceived notions thrown out and we want you to dig inside yourself.” She balled a fist. “Make us

care about the woman behind the company. People love it when they can relate to someone. They want to connect with others on a level of understanding.” Osana closed one eye as the artist applied eyeliner. “You want the ‘real’ Osana?” “Exactly.” Deena jumped in place, pointing to her. “You’ve accomplished a lot by taking over

Spears Corp. but the audience won’t care.” She swiped her hand through the air. “The public wants the ‘real’ you.” Osana grinned. “I get what you’re saying.” Deena looked over the pad. “Let’s go over a few more things.” Kel walked up behind Georgia with his gardening gloves on, holding shears. “You still spying?”

“It’s so comical to me.” Deena flounced around with her notepad, barking suggestions at Osana. “Osana sitting up there like she’s some princess.” Georgia crossed her arms. “Ah, someone jealous?” A bead of sweat trickled off his neck and underneath his gray, sleeveless T that showed off too many of his muscles.

Georgia fanned, hot from Kel standing so close more so than the heat. “She’s nothing but a big phony.” “Funny.” He shifted the shears to his other hand. “That’s what Osana says about you.” “Really? You two talk about me?” “Well she’s been asking me questions here and there. She wanted to

know about our past and your background.” “Don’t be telling Osana my personal business. What’s wrong with you?” “I didn’t tell her anything.” He flicked sweat off his face. “I wouldn’t betray you like that. I’ll always have your back, Georgia Peach.” He tilted his head in the opposite direction. “I gotta

get back to work. I’m sure as hell not in the mood for this spectacle. They should interview you.” He walked down the sidewalk. “You’re Anthony’s long-lost daughter.” He turned back around, still walking. “That’s one hell of a story if you ask me.” Georgia smiled.

CHAPTER NINETEEN After eavesdropping on Kel and Georgia, Rich, a crew hand, raced up to the pool and grabbed the Deena. “We need to talk.” “Don’t you see I’m busy?” she snapped, looking over her notes. “Osana’s gone to get dressed. Ugh.” She

crinkled her nose. “These rich people make me sick.” “Deena—” “I wouldn’t even have agreed to do this interview if the network hadn’t begged me. Who wants to sit here and listen to Osana Royal’s boring, stuck-up ass?” She sucked on her pencil. “The audience doesn’t wanna listen to some pamper princess talk about her

stepfather’s billion-dollar company. Why can’t we interview folks with substance?” “Would you listen to me?” Rich shook her. “That Georgia Arnett person is Anthony Spears’ long-lost daughter.” He adjusted his baseball cap. “I heard her and the gardener talking.” “Are you sure?” “I heard it with my own ears.”

Deena’s eyes got wide as tennis balls. “Oh, this is big.” She jumped up and down. “I could kiss you!” He closed his eyes and stuck his lips out. “But I won’t.” She grimaced. “I gotta go find Georgia.” “What about Osana?” “What about her?” Deena scowled, heading to the side of the

house. “Shit, I’m trying to get ratings. Who do you think the public would rather listen to, Osana or Georgia?” She slid open the glass patio doors. “Georgia, come out here, please!” Rich scratched under his cap. “What if she doesn’t want to do it?” “She has to do it.” Deena stood at the doors, resembling a soldier in the army. “The ratings will go sky high.

People love secrets and drama.” Georgia crept through the door. “Yes?” “Don’t be shy.” Deena grabbed her, laughing. “Would you like to be on TV?” Rich smiled when Georgia looked at him. “You want me to be on TV?” she asked.

“Is it true you’re Anthony’s longlost daughter?” Deena howled. “That’s huge! People worshipped Anthony and to find out he had a child will be the talk of Santa Barbara. Don’t you wanna be on TV?” Georgia held her arms behind her back. “Not really.” “But people would love to hear your story.” Deena hooked her arm in

Georgia’s and walked her down the pathway. “Are you afraid of the publicity?” “That and Osana.” She poked out her lips. “I get enough crap from her as it is. I don’t want her to think I intruded on her interview.” “You don’t understand.” Deena smiled. “We want to interview you and you only.”

“Are you nuts?” Georgia shrieked. Wanda walked out. “Osana should be ready in a few minutes. She’s gone through ten outfits.” “Who cares?” Deena flicked her hand and tugged on Georgia. “You gotta do it.” “Do what?” Wanda asked. “They want to interview me for

Santa Barbara Today about being Anthony’s daughter.” Georgia gasped. “But I can’t do that.” “You want to interview her and Osana?” Wanda asked. “No, we just want to interview Georgia.” Deena gazed at Georgia as if she were in love. “What?” Wanda yelled. “Woman, are you crazy?”

“That’s what I asked her,” Georgia said. “Osana would tear this place apart!” Wanda yelled. “And she’d snatch the hell out of your behind,” she told Deena. “My daughter’s been looking forward to this for weeks. You can’t just throw her aside like she’s nothing.” “This is the television world, Mrs. Spears,” Deena said. “We need

ratings or we don’t stay on the air. We can interview Osana another time but right now…” She pointed to Georgia. “I want the scoop on Anthony’s daughter.” Osana headed for them. “Shit here she comes,” Georgia whispered. “Lord, have mercy.” Wanda took a deep breath. “I’m here.” Osana came outside

and twirled, showing off her spectacular red suit with the white collar. “How do I look?” “Wonderful, sweetheart,” Wanda fidgeted as if to avoid Deena. “Okay let’s get started then.” Osana frowned at Georgia as she passed her and stood by a table. The camera operator zipped from around the house, bumping into

Rich. “Are we ready?” “I am.” Osana sat and crossed her legs. “Do you like my suit, Deena? I picked red to match my fiery personality.” “You’re beautiful,” Deena said, fidgeting. Osana looked at everyone. “How come I feel there’s something you’re not telling me?”

Kel sauntered up, taking off his gardening gloves. “There’s been a slight change in plans, Osana,” Deena said. “I’d like to interview Georgia today.” She held out her hands. “But we can reschedule for you.” Osana chuckled. “Come again?” “Oh god,” Wanda whispered. “I eh…” Deena hooked her

fingers. “I’d like to interview Georgia about being Anthony’s long-lost daughter.” The blood drained from Osana’s face as she rose from the chair. “What did you say, witch?” “Osana.” Wanda sighed. “Don’t go ballistic.” “Don’t go ballistic?” she shrieked. “Deena Red, have you lost

your damn mind?” “Georgia’s story is huge. The public will salivate to learn he had a daughter.” “So not only are you pushing me aside for this…this…” Osana stuck her hand in Georgia’s face without looking at her. “But you’re trying to defame my stepfather’s memory to get ratings?” “No I’m…” Deena backed away,

bumping into a chair. “I’m just doing my job, Osana. Like I said, we can interview you again soon.” “You can sit on your interview.” Osana shoved a chair into Deena, causing her to tumble. “All of you can sit on it! You’ve done it this time, Georgia.” “Me?” She raised her head. “I told her I didn’t wanna do the damn interview anyway.”

“Why not?” Osana scratched at her up-do. “Isn’t this what you want? To push me out of everything and take my place?” Georgia grimaced. “Girl, I don’t think about you like that.” “You are a liar, a slut, and a cheat, and it’s on now. It is on!” Osana went inside, slamming the glass doors. “Deena?” The camera operator

peeked from behind his camera. “Are we doing this thing or not?” “That depends on Georgia.” Deena gestured to the table. “What do you say?” “I have to make a phone call real quick.” Georgia ran into the house.

CHAPTER TWENTY Georgia ran upstairs to her room, dialing Teddy’s number on her cell phone. “What’s up?” he answered. She glanced down the hall then shut the door. “You know that talk show that’s supposed to interview Osana

today? Well Deena Red found out I’m Anthony’s daughter and wants to interview me!” She slapped the side of her thigh. “Can you believe that?” “What’s the big deal?” “Maybe the fact I’m not Anthony’s real daughter?” “So? They don’t know that.” “I can’t go on TV and lie.” She leaned her butt against the dresser.

“We’re scamming these people, Teddy. What if something I say attracts the wrong attention?” “What are you talking about?” “Like the damn police?” She sighed into her free hand. “I could do something that tips them off and they might investigate and—” “You worry too damn much.” He laughed. “It’s just a local TV interview.

Besides it’s gonna look suspicious if you don’t do it.” “Teddy?” She moaned. “We got millions of dollars on the line so you can’t afford to be scared.” “This is getting to me.” She rubbed the side of her neck. “The more I stay here, the more I hate what we’re doing.”

“I knew it.” His voice grew stern. “You’re becoming attached.” “No, I’m not.” “You think I’m stupid, Georgia? I’ve seen changes in you already. Don’t forget Anthony isn’t the great person they make him out to be. He wasn’t there for the kid he at least thought he had. What kind of man is that?” “I’m not forgetting anything.” She

paced. “Why do you care anyway as long as you get your money?” “I don’t care.” His strained tone didn’t convince her. “I’ve been waiting over thirty years to get my revenge for Anthony getting every damn thing and I won’t let anything get in my way that’s all.” “No,” she whispered. “It’s deeper than that, Teddy. I feel you’re jealous of

Anthony.” “That’s the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard.” He hung up. **** “What do you mean you have nothing on her yet?” Osana asked into the phone, peeking out of her bedroom. She watched Georgia leave her room and go down the hall. “You’re supposed

to be one of the best private investigators in California. How the hell can you come up empty?” “The girl is squeaky clean from what I see,” Howard said. “She’s Elene Arnett’s daughter. I got proof of that easy enough but nothing else.” “Idiot, we know she’s Elene’s daughter. Is she Anthony’s daughter?” “I have no way of knowing that.”

“What about tracking down information for that DNA test Georgia and Teddy supposedly took?” “I can’t pull stuff out of the sky, Osana. I need to know what facility they used.” “Shit, this woman is ruining my life!” Osana sat on the bed. “She’s not getting her hand on Anthony’s money. I’ll die before I let that happen.”

“Man, you hate this chick, don’t you?” She shook her head, licking her lips. “I can’t even put into words the disdain I have for her.” “I found nothing out about Georgia, but I found out something about her little friend that might interest you.” “What friend?” She scratched her knee.

“Your gardener.” He whistled. “Got dirt on him you guys didn’t know. It’s about an ex-girlfriend of his. And it’s pretty interesting.” Osana smiled. “Do tell.” **** That night, Kel answered his door still wearing the sweaty T from earlier. “Georgia.” He chewed on something. “Is everything okay?”

“Am I bothering you?” She enjoyed smelling his sweat. “Are you busy?” “Nah.” He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. “I’m having dinner. Come in.” He stepped aside, barefooted and gestured to the little living room table where he had a plate of bacon, eggs, and toast. “I forgot you liked eating

breakfast food at night.” She grinned as she sat on the couch. “I love eating breakfast food for dinner too.” “I remember.” His eyes twinkled when he smiled. “I remember a lot of things about you. You want a plate?” “No I already ate.” She put her hands together. “After all these years you’re still the only person I can talk to.” He sat beside her and put his

plate in his lap. “It’s about that interview, right?” He stabbed scrambled eggs with his fork. “What’s the big deal?” “I hate how hurt Osana looked earlier. I grew up without a father and it looks like she grew up without a mother.” “Osana spent her life with everything she needed. What more does

she want?” “Love,” she whispered. He stopped chewing. “Osana’s starving for Wanda to pay her some motherly attention.” He smirked. “You a psychiatrist now?” “She reminds me so much of me. That interview meant the world to her, and I ruined that.”

He got his glass of orange juice. “It’s not your fault Deena wanted to interview you.” She rubbed her eyes. “I didn’t want to do the interview.” “Then why did you?” He sipped from his glass. “There’s something on your mind bigger than Osana’s feelings. Does it have to do with you being Anthony’s daughter?”

Or not being his daughter you mean. “I feel…” She held in tears. “So lost.” She put her hands over her eyes. “Why do I even care about these people? I’m here to get my money.” “It’s because you’re a good person.” He kissed her hand. “You say you want the money but the longer you stay, you realize you’re missing

something bigger.” “I knew that the minute I saw you again.” She inched her face toward his. “Maybe I should go. The more I’m here, the worse I feel.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE “I don’t want you to go.” He brushed her cheek with his thumb. “Since you’re going through things, let me rescue you.” He set his plate down and stood. “I’ll take your mind off things.” “Oh, Lord.” She grinned into her hand. “What are you up to?”

“Some music.” He went to the entertainment system, looked through the shelf of CDs, and held up Mary J. Blige’s My Life. “Aw, man.” She pointed to him, tingling all over. “Going back to the classics, huh?” “You know how I do it.” He slipped the CD into the stereo and a few seconds later “Can’t Live without You”

played. “Mm.” Georgia swayed with her eyes closed. “No one does it like Mary. Her music is timeless.” “That sounds like a fitting theme for us too.” Kel walked toward the couch with his hand out. “May I have this dance?” “Yes, you may.” She took his hand, and he put his other arm around

her waist. Once again, she enjoyed that divine aroma of sweat. “What did you mean that timeless is a fitting theme for us?” He guided her back and forth. “Fate threw us back together and it’s not a coincidence.” The moist trail on his bottom lip mesmerized her. She wanted his mouth all over her, sucking, and licking until

she drowned with pleasure. “There’s something I never told you.” He held her so close that his mouth was only inches from her forehead. “What?” “You remember that time when we all went to that wedding for Omar’s friend?” She smiled. “That’s the night Omar proposed.” She smiled. “The

wedding convinced him he didn’t wanna be without me.” “I watched you and Omar dancing.” He swayed her in a circle, clutching her hip. “Every time you looked into each other’s eyes it hurt me. I realized I was in love with you that night.” She perched her hand on his shoulder.

“And I was so jealous because Omar could hold you and touch you.” He closed his eyes. “You smelled so good that day. Like peaches or something.” She smiled. “I wanted to zap myself into Omar’s body for a second to get one shot of being that close to you.” She held her breath. “Kel—” “I wanted to touch you, like

this.” He touched her face. “And I wanted to kiss you like this.” He pressed his soft lips to hers and maneuvered them open with his tongue. He let her mouth go as if to tease her. “I wanted to taste you like this.” He sucked on that spot of her neck that always warmed her up. “I’ve always wanted you like this. Always like this.” “I’m here.” She wrapped her

arms around his waist and pressed her breasts to his chest, making her nipples hard. “There’s no Omar anymore.” She kissed him, swiping his lips with her tongue afterwards. “We don’t have to run from how we feel anymore.” She rested her hands on his toned ass. “What happens now is up to us.” She took his mouth between her lips. “It’s all up to us.”

“Yes, it is.” He laid her on the couch. “I’ve always wanted you, and I always will.” “I want you inside me.” She pulled off her top and jeans. “That’s all I’ve ever wanted.” He snatched his shirt, pants off, and got on top of her. “Mm.” He grabbed her head, delivering a smoldering kiss. “I love you, Georgia.” He panted.

“I…I love you too.” She wrapped her arms around him, forcing him between her open legs. He unhooked the snap at the front of her bra and grabbed her breast. He sucked, tickling the hard, black nipple with his tongue. “Oh, yes.” She threw her legs up higher. “Yes, Kel.” A damn almost burst between her legs. “I’m so wet.”

He circled her navel with his sticky tongue. She rocked underneath him as if he were making love to her. “I don’t need foreplay,” she begged. “I want you inside. Please.” “You smell so good.” He held her hand over the thick protrusion in his black jockey shorts. “Feel me.” He rolled his cock against her trembling

palm. “You feel how much I want you? How much I wanted you all this time?” “Yes.” Her clit tingled as she felt the hard width of him. “Get it inside me.” She arched her back. “I can’t wait anymore. Please.” She sucked her index finger. He yanked his shorts down his muscular, hairy legs. “Yes, Kel.” She closed her eyes

and drifted to old fantasizes of him fucking her. “Ooh. Now,” she demanded. “Now.” He grabbed her waist with one hand and hesitated before entering her. Georgia sat up, her breasts falling to the side. “What’s wrong?” She touched his face. He shook his head, climbing off her.

“No condom?” She sat up. “I’m on the pill so it’s okay.” She stroked his chest while kissing his cheek. “You don’t have a disease do you?” she asked in a gentle manner. “No.” He half-chuckled. “Then what’s wrong?” She kissed his shoulder while Mary bellowed her heart out. Come on.” She tried to pull his limp arms around her.

“Don’t stop now. I’m aching for you, Kel.” She shoved his big hand against the crotch of her pink, cotton panties. “Can you feel how wet I am?” “You don’t think I feel the same way?” He kept his gaze on the table. “Well, shit I can’t tell.” She let him go, glowering at him. “One minute we’re about to make love then you pull

away.” He stood and put on his underwear and pants. “Hold on. What are you doing?” “I shouldn’t have let things go this far.” He went to the stereo and turned Mary off. “I care about you too much to do this.” “Do what?” she snapped. “I don’t know what the hell you’re talking

about.” He sat back down, avoiding eye contact. She ran her fingers through her hair, which had flattened in the back from lying down. “Is this about Omar?” He clasped his hands and pressed them to his mouth as if in thought. “Kel.” She turned his face

toward hers. “I loved your brother but that part of my life is history, and we have to accept that. We can’t put our lives on hold for a memory.” “He’s not just a memory to me.” Kel put his shirt on. “Why are you putting your damn shirt back on?” She grabbed the end of it. “Wait, Kel—” He yanked away from her. “He

was my brother, and I can’t betray him like this.” “He’s been dead for ten years!” She almost laughed at the absurdity of his reasoning. “Yeah, and I’ve always felt this way though.” “You can’t deny us this, Kel. How would we be able to make it through one night, let alone forever trying to pretend

we don’t want each other?” “I want you more than any woman, but I don’t know if this is good for you either. You’re vulnerable, and I’m taking advantage of you.” “Take advantage of me.” She laughed, kissing him. “God, Kel I’m gonna burst, but I want you inside me when I do.” “I’m sorry.” He moved away

from her. “I don’t feel this is right.” “Really?” She snatched her bra and put it on. “Your ass could’ve said that before things went as far as they did.” “You’re mad?” “Hell yeah I’m mad!” She stood and put her jeans on. “I’ve lived my entire life having to fight for what I wanted. I thought you were the one thing

I didn’t have to fight for!” She put on her flip-flops. “Don’t be mad.” He stood, grabbing her hand. “I have to make sure this is right.” “You didn’t say that when you were sucking my titty.” She put on her shirt and flicked her hair from underneath the back of it. “Now it’s not right?”

“You think it’s easy for me to let you walk out like this?” “Then don’t.” “He was my brother.” He shook a fist, his eyes reddening. “I want to move on with you, but how can I when you remind me of the past that I’m trying to forget?” “Omar would want us to be together if it made us happy. That’s the

person he was.” “I need some time.” He waved off her words. “I wanna be with you without the guilt.” “Fine.” She went to the door, straightening her clothes. “Just forget it, Kel. I don’t have the time to wait for you any longer.” “Georgia, please.” “If you love me you wouldn’t be

afraid.” He reached for her. “That’s not fair.” “Neither is how you’re treating me.” She left, slamming the door.

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO “Shit.” Kel lay on the couch after Georgia left. “Are you an idiot? You had the woman of your dreams right in your fuckin’ hands and you pushed her away?” He slapped his palms together. “Dumb ass.” Someone knocked on the door.

He answered to Osana rocking on his porch. “What do you want?” She grinned. “It’s good to see you too, Kel.” Her diamond watch sparkled under the moonlight. “I need your help.” She stuck her chest out and batted those long eyelashes. “My help, huh?” “I have a big problem.” She pointed behind her. “The same problem

that was just here.” “I have nothing to say to you about Georgia.” He tried to close the door, but she pushed on it. “I’m not in the mood.” “Why so testy?” She sashayed inside. “Let me guess. You didn’t get none?” “Get out.” He rushed toward her. “You don’t want me to pick you up and

throw you out.” “Who are you talking to?” She held her curvy waist. “I don’t remember you paying any bills for this property. You forget that this little house of yours belongs to us too?” He raised an eyebrow. “You mean it belongs to Georgia.” She glared at him. “What do you want?” He got his

plate from the table and headed to the kitchen. “I’m tired.” “I’m tired too.” She followed him. “Tired of your little girlfriend trying to ruin my life.” “Georgia hasn’t even been here a month and already this song is getting old.” He laid the dishes in the sink. She blocked him from leaving. “I need your help.”

“Get out of my way.” He tried to walk past, but she stayed in place. “I need to get rid of her ass once and for all and you’re going to help me do it.” “Leave.” He grabbed her by the arm and pulled her back into the living room. “Uh-uh!” She snatched her arm back. “Don’t be grabbing on me.” She

straightened her blouse. “What’s wrong with you?” “I don’t like getting rough with women, but you’re asking for it.” She gave him that sour face expression. “You’re gonna help me.” “I don’t take orders from you.” She wiggled her fingers. “I bet you will.” “Go to hell.”

She walked around the room, looking around. “Here’s the plan.” “Plan?” “You got the hots for Georgia…” She rolled her eyes. “Who knows why? Anyway, I want you to get close to her and find out what she’s up to.” He chuckled. “You’ve got to be kidding.” “I know Georgia’s a fake, and

you do too.” She stopped at his entertainment system and picked up a CD. “But I think love is blinding you.” “Yes, I love her.” He moved back as she walked up to the couch. “That’s why I’m not entertaining this silly-ass conversation.” He went to the door and opened it wider. “Good night, Osana.” “You’re gonna play up to her for

information.” “Get out! If you want someone to sneak around and do your dirty work then you’re mistaken.” She tilted her head, tapping her fingertips together. “If you don’t do it then I’ll tell everyone you raped me.” He leaned back feeling like someone sucked the air out him. “What?”

“You heard me.” A wicked smile eased across her lips. “I’ll say you raped me.” “I’ve never laid a hand on you, bitch!” Spit flew out of his mouth. “What the hell is your ass talking about?” “I know you haven’t.” She ran her fingers through her hair. “But I’m betting everyone will believe me if I say you did.”

“Don’t play with me.” He grabbed and shook her. “I never touched you or ever wanted to.” She snickered. “I mean it.” He let her go. “Don’t play with me on this shit.” “Because it brings back memories?” She squinted. “Were you this angry when you were arrested for statutory rape five years ago?”

He let her go. “That’s right,” she said. “I know all about Amber Collins and how she was only sixteen when you were with her.” “I didn’t know she was just sixteen. She told me she was twenty-one. How did you find out about this?” She shrugged. “A little birdy told me.”

He groaned. “I proved she lied and everything got dropped.” “Yet, being a sex offender is still on your record?” She twirled her finger in a strand of her hair. He gritted his teeth. “I’m not a sex offender.” “According to the registry you are and you hid this from Momma and Anthony.”

“I didn’t hide anything. They went on my references. They could’ve done a background check and if so I’d have explained.” He pressed both hands on his chest. “I’ve never raped anyone in my life!” “Calm down.” Osana smiled, waving her hand. “I believe you, but you still hid it. Also, what would my mother and everyone else believe?”

“Amber was living as a twentyone-year-old. She had an ID and everything. She even worked in a damn bar. How was I supposed to know she was underage? She turned me in because I dumped her when I found out she was a minor.” He tightened up. “She did it to get back at me.” “Desperate times call for desperate measures, Kel.” She leaned

forward. “And I’m desperate to get rid of Georgia.” “No one would ever believe I raped you,” he said, wheezing between his words. “Oh no?” She winked. “They believed Amber, didn’t they?” “Why are you doing this?” “Because I want that bitch Georgia gone!” She pointed at the door.

“Now your secret is safe as long as you do what I say. If not, well everyone including your precious Georgia Peach will know about the skeleton in your closet.” “Please don’t do this.” Tears burned his eyes. “You can’t be this cruel.” “I want you to get the truth and record her while she does it.”

“Are you insane?” “Record her telling you she’s not Anthony’s child. I need proof to expose her as the fraud she is.” “How am I supposed to do that?” he shrieked. “You got a cell phone don’t you?” She scowled. “Record her then.” “I won’t do it,” he said through clenched lips.

“You wanna lose this place, your job, and your freedom?” She poked his chest. “If not then you’ll do whatever the hell I want you to do.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE “Oh!” Osana held onto her rocking headboard that night while Ulysses pounded her from the back. “Yes…oh! Yes!” “Sh.” He snatched her hair. “You don’t wanna wake everyone in the house.” Osana mumbled with her face in

the pillow, “I’m coming.” Her body quaked as she released the booming orgasm. “Mm.” Ulysses fell over on her. “Damn, girl. You might drive me crazy sometimes, but I got not complaints when we’re between these sheets.” “Ooh.” She rolled over, wiping sweat off her face. “I gotta ask.” She laid underneath him. “What made you

come over tonight?” His gold necklace dangled against her chin. “I haven’t been paying you any attention, and I’m sorry.” “It’s okay.” She reached up and kissed him. “I know I’m driving everyone crazy because I go on and on about Georgia, but we got to get rid of her, Ulysses.” “Hey, we promised tonight

would be about us.” He laid beside her. “Go to sleep.” He slipped his arm under her head. “Will you stay the night?” She pulled his other arm over her. “Oh yeah.” He kissed her forehead while glancing at the door. “I’m not going anywhere.” **** “You look so sexy with your

glasses on.” “Oh!” Wanda jerked up from the table by the pool. Ulysses leaned against the house, shirtless, with that rigid stare. “Get out of here.” She took off her reading glasses. “What are you doing?” He sauntered up to her. She gathered the financial

documents for Spears Corp. “I’m getting the hell away from you.” As she passed, he grabbed her arm, twisting it. “Ulysses!” Her papers fell to the pavement. “Let me go!” He pushed her down on the concrete and got on top of her. “No!” She kicked underneath him. “Get off me!” “Shut up!” He covered her

mouth, his sweat dripping from his face to hers. “You started this, Wanda.” He gave her a rough kiss. “You’re mine now.” “Mm, no!” She clawed at his face. “You don’t wanna do this, Ulysses!” “I gotta remind you how good it is between us.” “Don’t!” she shrieked as he

reached under her gown. “No!” “Mrs. Spears?” Kel called out from the other side of the fence. “Kel!” Wanda hollered back. “Fuckin’ Kel.” Ulysses climbed off her. Kel walked through the fence. “Is everything okay, Mrs. Spears?” She nodded, trying to pull herself together. “I…I fell.” She got up and

straightened her gown. “Ulysses was helping me.” Ulysses stood, frowning. “He was leaving.” Wanda glared at him. “Weren’t you?” Ulysses snickered. “I promised Osana I’d stay the night.” Wanda held her breath as he went inside. “Mrs. Spears,” Kel said.

“Whatever’s going on is not my business but—” “You’re right. It’s not your business, and I can handle it.” “I know Ulysses has been bothering you.” He picked up her papers. “And I see how he looks at you.” She took the papers. “What are you saying?” He put his hands into the pockets

of his jeans. “He made a pass at you, didn’t he?” She looked away, clutching the front of her robe. “Promise not to say anything about this.” “If that’s what you want.” He walked to the fence. But, if you need help let me know.” **** Two Weeks Later

Shad checked his watch as he settled in the seat of his private jet. “Get comfortable. We can take our time and enjoy the next five hours.” Osana pushed a button and the back of her chair declined. “Ah.” She kicked off her pumps and set her feet next to his on the leather foot stand. “I like those shoes.” He wiggled his feet in the Prada

leather wingtips. “Thanks.” “You seem to put more effort into your outfits than I do mine.” She laid her head on the headrest as the jet glided. “Nonsense.” He gripped the armrests. “I bet you wake up looking that good.” “Hell.” She scratched the top of her head. “You don’t even know.” “Will I get a chance to know?”

She lifted her head to see him smirking at her. “Don’t get this twisted.” “Get what twisted?” He acted innocent. “One minute you claim you’re not interested in me, but you agree to go to this business trip in New York with me?” Her mouth rose in one corner. “I wanted to ride in your private jet.” “No, darling.” He shook his

head, pointing at her. “I’m sure you’ve ridden in private jets more times than you can count. You like me, Osana. Now I think you’d feel better if you admit it and submit.” “Submit?” She scooted up in her seat. “I don’t like that word or implication.” He tilted his head. “Let me have you and get it over with.”

She laughed. “You’ll be hooked once, baby.” He grabbed her feet and shook them. “I promise you.” “You’re something else. There’s never a boring moment with you, Shad. I’ll tell you that.” “You need to loosen up.” He called for the server. “I know what you need.”

Osana put her hands in her lap. “Oh, really?” The chubby server came up smiling, “Yes, sir?” “Ms. Royal’s tense.” Shad gestured to Osana. “How about you bring us some of those Godiva chocolates and some Perrier Jouet Chardonnay?” “Yes, sir.” The waiter bowed

and walked down the aisle. “Chardonnay?” Osana grinned. “Shad, it’s ten in the freaking morning.” “I do it big, girl.” He winked. She laughed. “We can’t have champagne in the morning.” “Why not?” He blushed. “I can’t spend the next five hours on this flight with your face all scrunched up like that. How long has it been since you visited

New York?” “Oh goodness.” She exhaled. “A year or two.” “I try to go at least twice a year. I love it there.” “I do too.” Osana wiggled her feet, smiling. The server returned with a large, gold box of Godiva chocolates and a bottle of chardonnay. “Here you are,

sir.” Another server brought two crystal glasses with gold rims. “Thank you.” Shad took the champagne and glasses while Osana took the chocolates. “That’ll be all.” The servers smiled and walked away. Osana opened the chocolates. “Is it a coincidence that my favorite brand

of chocolate is here?” “Maybe.” Shad poured champagne into the glasses. “Maybe not.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR “You trying to get me drunk?” Osana popped a chocolate coconut ball into her mouth and chewed the gooey treat. “You might need to take these. I might eat the entire box.” “Be my guest.” He passed her a glass of champagne. “I don’t want my mom finding

out I went to New York with you.” “Stop worrying. Wanda’s too busy drooling over Georgia.” “Ugh.” She rolled her eyes. “Georgia’s thinking of opening an Italian restaurant, and Momma might invest in it.” Shad gaped. She set her glass on the stand next to her. “I wanna see that DNA test.

Wouldn’t you?” He nodded, chewing. “She looks like Anthony.” “Do you find her attractive?” “Well…” “Be honest.” “She’s gorgeous.” He reached back and laid his arm over the seat. She slumped down in the seat, sighing.

“But she’s not on your level in a million years.” He winked as he grabbed another chocolate. “Anyway, The lawyer and I looked over the will, and there it was clear as day she gets the bulk of Anthony’s estate and half the house.” Osana bit into another candy. “Next she’ll be the freaking mayor if this keeps up.”

“Hold on.” He leaned forward and took her hand. “Stop, okay? I didn’t ask you to come along with me to talk about Georgia.” He touched her cheek. “I want you to enjoy this time away because you deserve it. Open your mouth.” “What?” “Open it.” She did.

He unwrapped a chocolatecovered cherry and placed it into her mouth. “Ooh.” She chewed, staring into his dazzling eyes. “You’re feeding me?” “Yep.” He wiped a speck of chocolate off her bottom lip with his thumb and sucked the end of it. “There’s more where that came from.” “Shad.” She stopped him.

“We’re not doing this.” He stroked her thigh. “We’re not doing this yet.” She moved his hand. “There’s no way I could get involved with you when you want to buy our company.” “Who says?” “I say.” “I don’t get it.” He got his glass. “Your mom’s doing what she wants and

not even worrying about you yet you’re so loyal to her.” “Stop.” She finished the cherry and looked at the clouds through the window. “I don’t want to talk about Georgia or my mother anymore.” **** Teddy walked out of the parlor when Georgia and Carol entered the mansion, laughing. Teddy stopped by the

living room to see Georgia in a red blazer and skirt with designer heels and a hat big as the room. “Teddy?” Georgia gawked. “I told you I’d be here at noon waiting for you.” He checked his watch. “It’s almost three.” “Sorry.” She handed four, large shopping bags to Carol. “I went shopping.”

Teddy pushed his hands in his pockets. “I didn’t come here to sit for two hours.” “I forgot.” She grimaced. “Damn, is it that big a deal?” “You didn’t forget.” He charged her, pointing. “Your ass didn’t care! Since you got that money you don’t care about anyone but yourself.” “Carol.” Georgia handed her hat

and purse to her. “Please take these up to my room for me?” “Yes, ma’am.” Carol left. “Let’s go into the parlor,” Georgia said. “Oh, so you want to talk to me now?” She pulled Teddy down the hall and into the room. “I’m sorry, okay?” They entered the parlor and

Georgia closed the door. “You’ve changed, Georgia.” “No I haven’t.” She clickedclacked across the tile. “You come in here looking like Michelle fucking Obama acting like you all that and you haven’t changed?” “I’m doing what you wanted me to do.” She stood by the ottoman. “I’m fitting in.”

“Your ass is fitting in too damn much!” He lowered his voice. “You need to settle down with the media and shit.” “You’re the one who told me to do that interview.” She took off her blazer. “I said do one damn interview.” He stuck his finger in the air. “I didn’t say become Kim Kardashian.”

She sat on the arm of the couch. “I’m the one doing the work and all you do is complain.” “It’s not good bringing all this attention to yourself. People are curious about you so they’ll start sniffing around.” “They won’t be able to find out anything, remember?” She unbuttoned the top button of her blouse and fanned

her face. “As long as no one finds out about the DNA test, we’re fine.” He exhaled, holding his waist. “Relax.” She crossed her legs and smiled. “I got this.” “What has happened to you?” He shook his head, disgusted. “A few weeks ago you couldn’t stand rich people and now you’re acting like you’ve forgotten where you came from.”

“I have not forgotten where I came from. Why are you acting like this?” “Because I care about you!” He pointed to the door. “I don’t want you to get sucked in by this idea of how great Anthony was because it isn’t true.” “It is true.” She lunged at him. “Everyone I’ve met has said he’s a wonderful man. Why are you so deadest

on turning me against him?” “He got everything.” His cheeks puffed with air. “Everyone loved him when he was alive and worshipped him after he died. He had everything, and I wanted one…just one person for me.” “Teddy.” “I love you, Georgia.” He looked away. “I think of you as a daughter. I’m trying to look out for you.”

“I haven’t changed.” “You have.” He sighed. “How come I never hear from you unless I call you? We used to check in with each other and now you spend all your time with Wanda.” “I like her.” She crossed her arms. “She’s very nice. Is that so bad?” “Your loyalties are to me and not Wanda.”

“What do you want from me?” She raised her arms. “It’s like no matter what I do it’s not good enough.” “I want you to remember who brought you here.” He stood closer. “I made your dreams come true and no one else.” Someone knocked on the door. “Georgia?” Kel called out. “Are you in there?”

“Y…yes!” He walked in. “Oh hey, Teddy. I’m sorry if I’m interrupting.” Teddy straightened up. “It’s fine.” Georgia combed her fingers through her hair. “Did you want something?” “Yeah, I’m going to the flower shop to get fertilizer,” Kel said. “You

want to come? We need to talk.” “Umm…” She presented a shaky smile. “Sure.” She looked at Teddy and her smile disappeared. “Are we done here?” “Think about what I said.” He walked between them to get to the door. “I only want what’s best for you.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE “Enough beating around the bush.” Kel and Georgia walked past rows of potted plants and flowers and stopped at the fertilizer in the back. “What’s up with you and Teddy?” “What are you talking about?” Georgia brushed a gnat off her hand. “He’s possessive with you.” Kel

checked out the huge bags of fertilizer on the shelf. “He’s my uncle, so he’s worried about me.” “Why would he be worried?” He struggled with the bag. “Push the cart over here, please.” She did, and he tossed the bag into it and grabbed another one. “He thinks I’m changing because

of the money.” She looked at the princess pink polish on her nails. “Do you?” “You’re getting a taste of a life you’ve always wanted and are taking advantage.” He put another bag into the cart “I can’t blame you for that.” She leaned over and spoke in his ear, “Answer the question.” “No.” He chuckled. “I don’t

think you’ll ever change.” He threw more fertilizer in the cart. “I hate how things have been between us the last few weeks.” “Oh?” She rolled her eyes, acting coy. “How have they been?” “Tense as hell.” They walked on, passing a couple who examined intersect repellant.

“I can’t stop thinking about you,” Kel said. “Look, about what happened that night at my place—” “It’s okay.” “No, it’s not.” He touched her arm, stopping her. “I pushed you away because of how much I want you, not because I don’t.” “Actions speak louder than words.” She stuck her head in the air and

kept walking. “You don’t need to be worrying about me right now anyway.” He straightened the cart as he walked. “You’re dealing with a lot. The last thing you need is me making things harder on you.” “Do me a favor and don’t tell me what I need.” She huffed. “We’ve denied what we felt all this time, and I won’t do

that for ten more years. Either you man up and we can see what happens or we leave it alone for good.” “There’s something else between us.” “What?” She turned as a woman passed. “I’ve been paying attention to you since you got here and you’re suffering through something.” He sighed.

“You have something heavy on your mind. You can trust me if you want to talk.” She shrugged off his concern. “I know.” “Is there something you need to get off your chest?” Maybe she could tell Kel about the fraud with Teddy. She couldn’t suffer in silence forever.

“I mean it.” Kel stopped the cart. “You can tell me anything, and I promise I’ll always be there for you.” “Thanks.” She smiled. “I’ll keep that in mind.” **** “Osana?” Osana awoke from her nap in the king-size tub when Shad entered the hotel suite that evening. “Hold on!” She

got out of the soapy water and grabbed the towel off the gold rod. Shad knocked on the bathroom door. “You all right?” “I was just bathing.” She dabbed herself off and put on her Terry-cloth robe. “That sounds inviting. Need help?” “No.” She opened the door.

He displayed a slick smile, hair shimmering with mousse. “You look good enough to eat.” She walked past him with her damp feet sinking into the soft, thick carpet and sat on the circular bed with the designer sheets. “How was your meeting?” “Don’t let the water out.” He checked out the bathroom. “We might

take a bath together later.” “That ain’t happening.” She lay against the pillows. “How did things go with your investors?” “Same old, same old.” He took off his blazer and laid it on the antique two-seater by the closet. “It was hard for me to concentrate.” He stood at the foot of the bed with his hands in his pockets. “All I could think about was you.”

She smiled. “Really?” “Yeah.” He touched the front of his vest. “Did you think about me?” “I was too busy being bombarded.” She rested her arm behind her head. “Every time I turned around room service was bringing me drinks and food. When they weren’t doing that the concierge called me every five minutes to see if I needed anything.”

“I told them to give you the royal treatment. I didn’t want you to lift a finger.” He unbuttoned his vest, walking to the mini bar. “How about some champagne?” “Sure.” She sat up. Shad grabbed the champagne bottle and shook it. “What are you doing?” She sat on the edge of the bed. “You shake it and

it’ll go everywhere.” “Tell me the truth when I ask you this next question…” He held a devilish yet sexy stare. “Or I’ll pour this all over you.” “You wouldn’t.” She held up her hand, laughing. “And I’ll kick your ass. What’s the question?” “Did you call Ulysses?” “No.”

He shook the bottle harder. “Liar.” “Okay!” She jumped up from the bed. “I called him but he didn’t answer.” “I bet he doesn’t answer your calls a lot of times, right?” He shook his head. “You deserve way, way better.” “I don’t understand it.” She sat back down. “I do all I can to make him happy but he’s never there for me.”

“Osana, you can’t force love. It’s either there or it isn’t, sweetie.” She lowered her head. “You’re the only person I can talk to. I’m not comfortable letting my guard down with people.” He sat beside her. “I’ve noticed.” She lay down, sighing. “I’m sick of people walking all over me no matter

what I do.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX Shad leaned over on his elbow and kissed Osana’s hand. “You’ve got to worry about yourself or you’ll never be happy.” “I haven’t been happy since Anthony died.” She closed her eyes to stop the tears. “I’m so grateful for you bringing me here today. It’s what I

needed.” Still holding the bottle, he propped it on the mattress. “You know what today is?” “No,” she whispered. “It’s my mom’s birthday.” He lay back and stared at the ceiling. “I’m sorry.” She rubbed his arm. “I know you miss her.” “I dread this day more than

anything.” His eyes watered as sadness caused his voice to crack. “You were what, ten when she died, right?” He nodded. “When it first happened, I kept wishing she’d walk back through the door.” Osana held in tears. “I still do that.” He stroked the champagne bottle. “I still sometimes

look at the door, no matter where I am, and hope she’ll come walking in and go, ‘Hey, son. It was just a joke…” His lips trembled. “I’m alive.” “I’m so sorry.” She guided his head to her bosom. “I miss her more than anything.” He sniffled in her chest. “I’d do anything to see her one last time. What hurts is wondering how things would be. Would

she be proud of me? How would we be if she were still here?” She felt his hair, kissing his forehead. “I’m here for you. I hope that’s enough.” “Goodness.” He pulled away, wiping his eyes. “I’m crying like a baby.” She winked. “I kind of like it.” He grinned, dabbing his cheeks

with his hands. “Let’s toast to your mom then.” She scooted against the headboard. “Pop open that champagne, damn it.” He laughed and loosened the cork. Osana hit his arm. “Gotta get glasses, silly.” “Who needs glasses?” Shad popped the cork and champagne shot out

over them. “Oh!” Osana folded her arms over her face as champagne seeped through her robe and drizzled down her chest. “Shad!” “I’m sorry.” He stood, shaking champagne off himself. “I forgot I’d been shaking it.” “This is a mess!” A pool of champagne gathered under Osana’s butt.

“I just bathed!” “Sorry.” He laughed, bent over. “It’s not funny!” Liquid trickled from her hair. “You got my hair wet! I’ll never be able to get it in shape in the morning.” “Stop whining.” He went to the bathroom, came out with towels, and climbed into the bed on his knees. He lifted her leg and dabbed it with the

towel. “What are you doing?” She panted. With his eyes still on hers, he set the towel aside, and then dragged his tongue up her leg, sipping the champagne as he did it. “God.” Her body went limp as if too weak to fight Shad’s power. She spread her legs as he made his way

higher. “Wait…” His fingers continued up her thighs. “Hmm?” He lifted the end of her robe. “Let me make you forget everyone and everything,” he mumbled as his head nuzzled her crotch. “Oh.” She almost came just from him being in the vicinity. “Shad?” She gripped the pillows beside her. “Stop okay?”

“Uh-uh,” he murmured as his sticky, thick tongue licked the bud of her clit. “Shit.” Osana jerked up. “Shad…oh!” She got a cramp in her leg. “This is wrong.” She squealed from delight. “Wrong!” He tickled her clit with his finger as he sucked her opening. “Ah!” Beyond her control,

Osana’s legs flew straight into the air and settled on his shoulders. “Wow.” She bit her lip, every part of her gyrating from the mastery of his tongue. He licked around, and doubled back while she desperately prolonged her orgasm. “Oh.” She rocked up and down, shaking the bed. “Yes. Oh!” She held his revolving head between her thighs.

“Yes…woo!” Her toes spread as she neared that final, amazing chapter. Shad sucked her spot, tapping her clit in unison. “Oh fuck!” Osana plopped down on the bed. “Yes. Oh my god…I’m…” “Um mmm.” Shad licked. “Wanna come for me? Huh?” “Ah!” Osana jerked as if electricity shot through her body.

“Shad!” She gripped his head with both hands. “Uh…uh…uh…” “Come on, baby.” He sucked harder. “Come on.” “Ooh…oh…ah!” Osana quaked as the orgasm almost split her in two. “Uh…yes!” She laid on her back with her mouth wide open, panting. Shad lifted his head, his hair sticking up at the top. “Can I ask you

something?” He panted with his face beet red. “What?” She held a pillow to her chest. “You still thinking about everyone else?” “No.” She clamped her legs together, experiencing a shiver from the aftermath. “You’re just the distraction I need.”

He took the pillow from her. “It’s not over yet.” He got on top of her and untied her robe.

CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN “Mm.” Kel tasted Georgia’s baked ziti with mornay sauce, Italian sausage, and fennel. Even though the dish had always been one of Georgia’s favorites to eat and cook, watching Kel’s reaction to her cooking gave her even more pleasure.

“You like it?” “Like it?” He gobbled another spoonful. “It’s like an orgasm in my mouth.” Georgia busted out laughing. “Kel.” Wanda looked up from her cell phone, grimacing. “It’s delicious, Georgia. I’m sure Brandy appreciated not having to cook tonight, and this is a lovely meal.”

“My pleasure.” Georgia chewed. “You still worried about Osana?” “Yeah. I’ve called her all day and heard nothing back.” She sighed. “Her secretary said she took the day off.” “So what’s the big deal?” Kel asked with sauce on his mouth. “Osana doesn’t take days off.” She set her phone down. “This doesn’t

feel right.” “You don’t think something happened to her, do you?” Georgia asked. “I hope not,” Wanda said. “Ulysses was at work so she’s not with him.” “She’s been stressed lately,” Kel said. “Maybe she needed a break.” Georgia snickered. “I say enjoy

the peace while it lasts.” Kel grinned. Wanda’s phone rang, and she yanked it up before checking the screen. “Osana?” Her demeanor went from concerned to disgust. “Have you heard from Osana?” she snapped to whoever was on the phone. “No? Then bye.” She hung up. “Who was that?” Georgia asked.

“No one.” Wanda’s phone rang again. She shook her head and exhaled. “Aren’t you going to get it?” Kel asked. “No.” She turned it off. “Guess what? I got an email earlier from one of my oldest friends, Sissy Barton. She’s a successful beautician in Hawaii and she has a chain of salons all over the

world.” “Hawaii, huh?” Georgia smiled. “I’ve always wanted to go there.” “That’s good because Sissy is getting married again to some young, Hawaiian hottie, and she invited me to the wedding in three weeks.” Wanda giggled. “Isn’t that lovely?” “Yeah, that’s nice.” Kel beamed. “You going?”

“Of course,” Wanda said. “It’s been years since I’ve seen her, and we lost touch. Georgia, I want you to come with me to meet her.” “What?” Georgia almost fell out her chair. “You want me to go with you to Hawaii?” “Uh-huh.” Wanda took her hand. “Sissy’s anxious to meet you.” Georgia squirmed. “I’d feel like

I’m intruding.” “Nonsense.” Wanda tapped Georgia’s hand. “You’re a part of the family. Besides, I don’t want to go alone.” “Shouldn’t you take Osana?” Wanda poked her lips out to the side. “Now you know darn well Osana would not go to Hawaii with me.” “She might,” Georgia said.

“Maybe you two should use the time to repair your relationship.” “I’ve been trying to fix things with Osana for over twenty years. I doubt I can do it during a trip to Hawaii. All we’ll do is fight, and I’m tired of that.” Wanda sat back. “Don’t you wanna have fun? How about if Kel came along?” Wanda smiled at him. “Kel, would you like to come to Hawaii with

us?” “What?” he and Georgia asked in unison. “I don’t think that’s a good idea,” he said. “Me either.” Georgia slurped her juice, imagining how awkward it would be to tiptoe around Kel on one of the world’s most beautiful islands. “What is with you two?” Wanda

cackled. “You’re acting like old people. We all can use this vacation.” “I’ll think about it.” Kel checked his watch. “Work’s calling. I wanna put out more fertilizer before I go to bed.” He stood. Wanda chuckled, shaking her head. “You and those flowers.” “See you two.” He winked at Georgia. “Have a good night.”

“You too.” Georgia watched his mesmerizing ass disappear down the hall. “Why did you do that?” she asked Wanda. “Why did you invite Kel to Hawaii with us?” “So you are going?” Wanda lit up. “I invited him because you’re in love and I’m gonna do all I can to get you together.” “Why?”

“Because you belong together.” Georgia pushed her plate away. “You’re one to give romantic advice.” “Excuse me?” Wanda grabbed her napkin. “What does that mean?” “You say you want us to be open with each other but you’re not doing that.” “What are you talking about?” Wanda propped her elbow on the table.

“I’m talking about you and Ulysses.” Georgia crossed her arms. “Something went on between you two.” “Jesus.” Wanda panted. “How long have you known?” “The night Teddy brought me here. I watched how Ulysses looked at you and then how you avoided looking at him. It wasn’t anything innocent about it.”

“It’s not what you think.” She shook her head. “Why don’t you tell me the story then?”

CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT “Ooh.” The following afternoon, Osana worked through the soreness in her legs and buttocks as she forced herself out the car. “Miss Osana?” One of the security guards walked up. “Are you all right?” “Y…yeah.” She pushed her

shades up. “Just a little sore that’s all. Gino! Carol? I need help with my bags!” Gino hurried out of the house. “Coming, Miss Osana!” He looked her over then got her luggage from the back of her silver Benz. She crept past them, dreading the pain of having to go up those stairs toward the front door. One session of lovemaking with

Shad led to making love six times in a row. “You sure you’re okay?” Gino scampered behind Osana as she entered the house. “Why are you walking like that?” Between Shad breaking her off and that five-hour plane ride back to Santa Barbara it was a wonder she could walk.

“Just mind your own business and take my bags to my room. Thank you.” He went in the other direction. “Ooh.” Osana groaned, leaning against the wall. “Jesus. That man nearly killed me.” “Osana?” Wanda clacked down the hall in backless high heels. “Where the hell have you been?”

“Did Brandy cook lunch yet?” Osana continued creeping. “I’m hungry as hell.” “I’m talking to you.” Wanda blocked her. “Where were you? I was worried sick.” “That’s what I have to do to get your attention?” Osana took off her shades. “Disappear for a day?” “I called you a hundred times.

Why didn’t you call me back?” “Momma, I’m thirty-four years old.” Osana crept into the living room, wincing as she sat in the chair. “I don’t have to tell you where I am or where I’m going.” “Did you do it to punish me?” “Woman, everything is not about you.” Osana set her shades on the end table. “I had something to take care of

and it’s none of your business.” Georgia walked past the doorway then came back inside. “Keep on walking.” Osana rolled her eyes. “Osana, you’re back.” Georgia snickered. “We missed your ray of sunshine around here. You look like hell.” “Then I guess we can be twins

today, huh?” Osana blew her a kiss. “Don’t pretend like you cared I wasn’t here.” “I think it was shitty to make your mother worry.” “Georgia, please,” Wanda said. “She had you here, didn’t she?” Osana wiggled her foot until the soreness shot up her leg. “You’ve turned into the perfect daughter so she doesn’t

need me, right?” “Stop it,” Wanda snapped. “Contrary to popular belief, Osana, I love you. It’s not like you to disappear and not tell anyone.” “Well get used to the new me, Momma!” She threw up her arms in a mocking manner. “I hope you like it.” “New you but the same old attitude,” Georgia mumbled. “Guess

what? Wanda’s friend Sissy is getting married in Hawaii in three weeks and Wanda asked me to go with her.” Osana clenched her teeth. “Is that so?” “I knew you wouldn’t wanna go anywhere with me,” Wanda said. “Please don’t be angry.” Osana propped her feet up on the footstool. “Why would I be angry?”

I’m devastated. You don’t know Georgia from a hole in the wall yet you’ve become inseparable. Like I’m supposed to believe you considered asking me to go anywhere with you. That’ll be the day. Osana peered at her mom, wishing she could forget her pride and tell Wanda how hurtful this was. “And you’re right, Momma. The last thing I

want to do is go on a vacation with you.” Wanda sighed. “I can go to Hawaii any time I want.” Osana laid her head back. “I’m sure you’re anxious for the trip, Georgia. Would be ashamed if Momma left you there by mistake.” “I asked Kel to come too,” Wanda said. “Kel?” Osana sprang up in the

chair. “He said he’d think about it,” Wanda said. “Oh, he’s going.” Osana smirked, thinking of her proposal to him to trap Georgia. “After all, he can’t get enough of his Georgia Peach, can he?” Georgia rolled her eyes and flounced out the room. ****

“Kel?” Osana limped toward the garden as he watered the flowers. “We need to talk.” “What happened to you?” He squinted in the sunlight. “Why are you walking like you’ve been run over?” “I heard about this Hawaii trip.” She put her hand on her hip. “Momma’s not sure you’re going.” He moved to the right with the

hose. “I’m thinking about it. What does it have to do with you?” “You’re going. I’ve been waiting two weeks for your ass to get something on Georgia and you still got nothing.” He sprayed the flowers. “I’m not doing your dirt, Osana.” “You will do it.” She hobbled to him. “I’m not playing with you. You’ll be making license plates instead of

watering flowers if you keep fucking with me.” He lowered the hose. “If you’re so sure she’s not Anthony’s daughter, then the truth will come out. You don’t need me.” “I do!” She turned him around to face her. “I’ll say you raped me.” “I’ve been sick with myself ever since you forced me into this.” He

walked in the other direction, spraying. “I care about Georgia, and this has been killing me.” “I don’t give a damn about how you feel.” She poked his chest. “I’m doing this for my stepfather who doesn’t deserve to have his fortune swindled by that ingrate. Now you’re taking your ass on that trip, and you’ll do all you can to get her to confess that she’s not

Anthony’s daughter.” “I’ve tried to get her to confide in me and it doesn’t work.” “You’re a man for god’s sake!” She pushed him. “Be creative! She wants you and you want her. Hawaii would be the perfect time to get her right where you want her. It’s either loyalty to her or loyalty to me, and if you pick her then get ready to spend a chunk of your

life behind bars.” “What happened to you, Osana?” He tossed the hose on the ground. “What made you so hateful?” She swallowed the painful words then stood erect. “Don’t worry about me. You make sure your ass gets me the information I need.” She stepped over the hose. “It’s information or prison, Kel. You decide.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE Three weeks later, Wanda, Kel, and Georgia made it to Sissy’s inviting condominium in Honolulu. Wanda and Sissy exchanged hugs and kisses then Sissy introduced her twenty-nine-yearold fiancé Kaili and his older sister Sachi to everyone.

Afterwards, Sissy and Wanda escaped to the kitchen. Sissy kept her home so neat it was surprising to know someone actually lived there. The soft brown walls seemed to invite people inside as if it were giving a warm hug. In the middle of the hardwood floor sat a square table with wicker seats all around it. A counter with more wicker seats, sat next to the

window with the bamboo shades. Sissy reached up and turned on the ceiling fan then walked over to the stainless steel sink between the red stove and red refrigerator. Wanda sat at the counter and took off her floppy straw hat. “What’s with the red refrigerator and stove?” “You know I like color.” Sissy got a bowl of fruit out the refrigerator

and set it by the sink. “I swear you’ve gotten younger.” “Girl, please.” Wanda adjusted the purple lei around her neck. “You’re the one who’s turned back the hands of time. Look at you.” Sissy turned around, showing off her shapely bottom in the white, denim shorts and tank top. She wore her hair bleach-blonde though she’d grown gray

years ago. Her eyes were still a pair of the bluest Wanda had ever seen. If it weren’t for the crow’s feet and wrinkles around her lips, she could pass for much younger than fifty-six. “Look at me.” Sissy held out her pasty hands covered in speckles of sun damage and liver spots. “White as snow aren’t I? I can’t tan for nothing in the world.”

Wanda grinned. “I can’t explain how much I miss you.” Sissy’s ocean-blue eyes lit up. “I miss us just talking and being close, you know?” “Me too.” “I still feel guilty that I couldn’t make it to Anthony’s funeral.” Sissy got the blender out the cabinet. “I didn’t expect you to drop

everything and come.” “But I loved Anthony too.” Sissy plugged up the blender and loaded the fruit into it. “I felt I was robbed from saying goodbye.” She tossed Wanda a strawberry. “He knew you cared about him.” Wanda bit into the juicy strawberry. “You were there in spirit. I felt your presence.”

“I feel like that wasn’t enough.” Sissy started the blender and yelled over it, “I know what it’s like to lose a husband. At least you had family and friends with you though.” Wanda glanced out the window. Georgia and Kel struggled to fly Kaili’s kite. Georgia tumbled over with Sachi holding on to her. “Kaili seems very nice.” Wanda

grinned. “Spill it.” Sissy turned off the blender and stirred the chunky, orange concoction. “Nothing to spill.” “Bullshit.” Wanda stretched. “It’s just us and if you think I’m gonna let you get away with not telling me how in the hell you hooked that young buck…you are sadly mistaken.” Sissy giggled with her hand over

her mouth. “I met him at the spa.” Her eyes glazed over. “I’ve been getting foot massages for circulation.” “You know what I wanna hear.” Wanda sucked strawberry juice off her lip. “How did you hook that young stud?” “He hooked me.” Sissy laughed, getting glasses out of the dishwasher. “He pursued me, and I kept pushing him

away because of the age difference. But he wore me down.” She poured the fruit juice into the glasses. “When we first went out…oh.” She passed Wanda a glass. “It was like I’d met my soul mate. I instantly fell for him. We took this long walk on the beach and just talked.” “Mm.” Wanda sipped the sweet yet slightly bitter drink. “I don’t think I’ll ever find that connection with anyone

besides Anthony.” “That’s what I thought.” Sissy leaned on the counter in front of Wanda. “But you’re a beautiful, vibrant, wonderful woman. There’s a man out there for you.” She drank from her glass, looking toward the window. “Georgia seems nice, and she’s pretty too.” “Doesn’t she look like Anthony?”

Sissy nodded. “Those cheekbones? You seem to get along.” “We clicked.” Wanda smiled. “We can talk and we understand each other. I’ve been telling her about Anthony. I think it’s important for her to know the type of man he was.” “So is she going to stay around? I know she owns half the mansion but—” “I don’t know.” Wanda sipped.

“I’d really miss her if she left. If only I could talk to Osana like I talk to Georgia.” “How is Osana?” “I’d like to say our relationship is less strained but since Anthony died it’s off the rails. She hates me, Sissy.” “No.” Sissy patted her hand. “That’s impossible.” “No she hates me, and it’s gotten

worse since Georgia showed up because she’s jealous of her. She thinks I spend too much time with her.” “She has a bit of a point, doesn’t she?” “I guess.” Wanda ran her fingers through her hair. “I concentrated so much on making a better life for her that I didn’t stop and spend time with her. I regret that, but I can’t change the past. I

want us to move on and start over.” “What steps have you made for that to happen?” “Why does it have to be my job?” “Because you’re the momma.” Sissy smirked. Wanda’s phone rang. She sighed, knowing it was Ulysses. She checked the screen then

rejected the call. It rang again. Wanda turned off the phone and slammed it down. “Is something wrong?” Sissy asked. “No.” Sissy sucked a strawberry. “Doesn’t seem that way to me.”

CHAPTER THIRTY That night, everyone settled in Sissy’s den for a meal of Kimchi, (salted-pickled cabbage), salmon, and assorted vegetables. Sissy and Kaili sat in the two chairs by the black, cocktail table while Wanda and Sachi sat on the dark-green futon next to the TV stand. Kel and Georgia sat together on the

reclining, leather sofa. “This is delicious.” Kel wiggled his feet as he chomped on cabbage. “I love cabbage.” Georgia chewed salmon. “I still can’t believe I’m in Hawaii.” She focused on the brown curtains with the green pine cones painted on them. Kel smirked as he chewed. “I can’t wait to get out in that tropical sun

and go crazy.” “See that’s the spirit.” Sissy laughed. “There’s no place like Hawaii.” “I’m glad you all could come.” Kaili’s white teeth glowed against his bronze skin. “I’ve heard such wonderful things about you, Wanda.” Wanda smiled. “It’s a pleasure to welcome you

all to Hawaii.” Kaili gestured to them. “I’m happy you’re going to the wedding.” “That’s so sweet,” Wanda said. “Don’t let him fool you.” Sachi sipped her punch. “He’s just being nice so you can bring gifts.” Everyone laughed. “It’s wonderful to share our special day with all of you.” Kaili took

Sissy’s hand. “I’ve never loved a woman the way I love Sissy.” “Aw.” Georgia set down her fork. “What?” Kel grimaced, chewing. “It’s so romantic.” She dabbed her eyes with the paper towel. “It proves that no matter someone’s age or color, love is always there.” “Love is important.” Wanda

lifted her glass. “When you find love there’s no time to waste.” “Especially when you get my age.” Sissy laughed with her plate bouncing in her lap. “Hopefully, I don’t croak within a year.” “Sissy.” Wanda covered her grin. “From what Wanda told me there’s something been brewing between you and Kel for years,” Sissy said to

Georgia. “Don’t you think it’s time you two did something about it?” “Wanda.” Georgia huffed. “As if Sissy wouldn’t take one look at you two and know you have feelings for each other. We’re all family here so we can be honest.” Georgia’s face went hot. “It’s complicated.” Kel cleared his throat and laid

his plate on the table. “Love shouldn’t ever be complicated.” Sissy stirred her cabbage. “If you love each other, that’s all that matters.” Kel slurped from his drink. “I can’t wait to get started tomorrow.” He rubbed his hands. “I was asking Kaili about surfing lessons and he hooked us up.”

“Surfing lessons?” Georgia asked. “Yeah.” Kel bumped her with his elbow. “How can you come to Hawaii and not surf?” Georgia curled up her face. “Black people don’t surf.” The others laughed. Kel shrugged. “Sounds like someone’s scared to learn something

new.” “He’s right, Georgia,” Wanda said. “I had surfing lessons when I first came to Hawaii. It’s fun. You should go with him.” “Ooh, I’d like that.” Kel grinned. “You only live once.” **** “I can’t believe I’m doing this,” Georgia said as she and Kel carried

their surfboards through the crowd at Waikiki Beach the next day. “You’ll be fine.” Kel bent over, allowing Georgia to see his toned ass in that blue wetsuit. Mm. This might not be so bad. “Are you ready?” Dirk, the muscular, beach bum instructor slapped his hands together. “We’ll take it nice and slow, okay? Just follow everything I

do.” “I don’t think I can do this.” Georgia glanced around at kids making sand castles. “I don’t want to look like a fool out here in front of all these people.” She pulled at her suit. “Women,” Kel said. “This is about having fun and trying something new. Stop worrying about what others are doing. Nobody’s paying attention to

us out here.” “Georgia, you’ll be fine.” Dirk pointed toward the ocean. “See there are people taking lessons everywhere. No one’s watching you.” “That’s what you say.” She pulled at the scarf tied around her head. “And why are you wearing that thing anyway?” Kel asked. “Look like Celie from The Color Purple.”

Dirk covered his grin. “I don’t wanna mess up my hair,” she snapped. “Jeez, this ain’t no Miss America competition.” Kel grimaced, crossing his arms. Georgia guarded her scarf with dear life in case Kel tried to snatch it off again. “Why are you being such an asshole?”

“Hey, it’s okay.” Dirk patted Georgia’s shoulder. “Kel, she’s scared. Can you be a little more patient?” “That’s right.” She brushed against the pouting Kel. “Be a gentleman and not a jerk.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-ONE “Woo!” Georgia laughed as she hopped out of the water an hour later. “Man that was fun!” She threw her surfboard on the sand. Dirk came from the water, shaking out his wet hair. “I told you once you relaxed, you’d like it.” He patted Georgia’s arm.

Kel grumbled as he took his place beside Georgia. “Shit.” He laid down his surfboard and flicked water off his head. “That was harder than I thought. It looks so easy on TV.” “Everything looks easy on TV.” Georgia slapped water from her face. “I’m so glad you talked me into trying this, Kel. I loved it.” “I can tell.” He rested beside the

surfboard. “You okay?” Dirk asked him. Kel propped up his knees. “Just didn’t have as much fun as I expected I would.” “Well, I had a blast.” Georgia hugged Dirk. “Thanks so much. You’re one hell of an instructor.” “Thanks.” He blushed with droplets of water falling from his dirty-

blond, shoulder-length hair. “This was one of the most entertaining lessons I had in a long time.” Kel mumbled, “I bet.” Georgia looked at Kel over her shoulder while addressing Dirk. “If anyone asks me who the best surfing instructor is in Honolulu I’ll tell them.” Dirk laughed. “It was my pleasure.” He saluted to Kel. “Nice

meeting you both.” Kel nodded with his lips twisted. “Thanks again,” Georgia told Dirk. “You’re welcome.” He got his surfboard. “Bye now.” “Bye.” Georgia waved as he left. She kicked sand at Kel. “Stop.” He flinched. “What’s up with you?” She sat

beside him. “Didn’t you find it fun?” “What I didn’t find fun is you and Dirk.” He rolled his eyes. “What are you talking about?” She sunk her hands in the sand. “He was all over you.” He propped his arms up on his knees. “Oh, you mean when I fell off the board and he grabbed me?” She laughed. “Boy, I fell. What was he supposed to

do? Let me drift off into the sea?” “I’m talking about all those other times when you weren’t falling.” He grimaced. “Like when he was holding your waist. Hell if he’d been any closer you’d been pregnant.” “That’s ridiculous.” “No, it’s not.” He leaned back as a group of kids ran in front of them, kicking up sand. “And he was looking at

your ass the entire time.” She stood and grabbed the thick cheeks. “Honey, I can’t hide all this, especially in a wetsuit.” She sat again and took off her scarf. “Even in my Celie scarf I still turn heads.” “It’s not funny.” He stared into the ocean. “It was disrespectful.” “You’re really upset, aren’t you?” She folded up the scarf. “You’re

jealous.” “No, I’m not.” “Yes, you are.” She poked him with her elbow. “You can’t stand a man looking at me. Admit it.” “Fine.” He shrugged. “I didn’t appreciate it and it pissed me off.” She scooted closer to him. “Why are you getting mad over some stranger?”

“I guess a part of me is scared of losing you.” He grabbed sand and let it spill from his fingers. “I’m not going anywhere, Kel.” “You’re gonna stay at the mansion forever?” She leaned back on her elbows. “I hadn’t thought about long-term plans yet.” “That’s all I’ve been thinking

about.” He lay next to her and touched her hair. “I’m confused. You’ve been coming on strong, but you wanted to back off before.” “Mm.” He pressed his lips against hers. “I’m ready now, Georgia. I want us to commit. I don’t want to wait anymore.” She pulled her lips from his,

contemplating the reason for his sudden change. “You seem bothered.” He studied her face. “Tell me what’s on your mind.” “It’s just weird how you’ve changed so fast. What about your loyalty to Omar?” “I’m tired of living in the past.” He ran his fingers through his wet hair. “You wouldn’t lie would you,

Kel?” “No.” He put his arm around her shoulders. “I love you. The ball’s in your court, Georgia.” He smiled. “We can do this.” “I’m going back to Sissy’s.” She stood and picked up her surfboard. “Sissy wants to take me and Wanda shopping before dinner.” His smile faded. “Georgia?”

“See you later.” She walked away, brushing sand off her suit. **** The next evening, Ulysses let himself into the mansion, chatted up Carol and Gino then snuck upstairs. He entered Wanda’s room, welcoming her perfume he missed so dearly. “Mm.” He climbed into the bed

and stuck his face into her pillow, inhaling the scent of her shampoo. “Why are you doing this, Wanda?” he whispered. “All I wanna do is make you happy.” He went to the dresser and picked up her picture in the silver frame. “No man will ever love you like I do.” He ran the tip of his finger across her lips. “Not even Anthony did.” He snatched her scissors off the dresser.

“I’m not going to be pushed away.” He opened her underwear drawer and pulled out several pairs of her lace and silk panties. “I didn’t want it to come to this.” He cut out the crotches. “But you brought it on yourself.” With each pair, he cut faster. “I love you.” Sweat beaded on his forehead. “You think I’m stupid?” He threw the last pair on the floor and glanced at her picture. “It’s someone

else, isn’t it?” He huffed and puffed. “There’s someone else, and I’m going to find him.” He snatched more panties from the drawer. The door opened. “Ulysses!” Carol stood in the doorway with a handful of Wanda’s undergarments. He dropped the panties on the dresser.

“What…” She laid a shaking hand over her mouth. “What are you doing?” “Come here.” He lunged for her. “Oh!” She turned, dropping the clothes. Ulysses pulled her back and slammed the door. “Shut up.” He held the scissors to her neck. “What…” She shivered under his

weight. “What are you doing?” “If you tell anyone about this…” He tightened his grip on her neck. “I swear bitch I’ll cut your heart out.” “Please!” She sobbed. “Do you understand me?” He pressed the tip of the scissors into her skin. “Do you?” “Why are you doing this? What’s happened to you?”

He shook her. “Do you understand me?” “Yes,” she squealed. “I won’t say anything.” He let her go. She panted, holding her neck. He set the scissors on the dresser. “Aw come on.” He wiped her tears with a pair of panties. “Fix yourself up.” He kissed her cheek.

“You’re all right.” He left, snickering.

CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE Five Days Later Kel grinned as the gritty sand invaded his toes. “Why are you smiling like that?” Georgia’s small feet disappeared in the sand when she walked. “You’re up to something.”

The fading sun shined on them no matter where they went. He smiled. “All day I’ve wanted you to myself and now I have you.” “Did you have fun yesterday?” She had her hair in a ponytail with a pink bow that matched her floral summer dress. “Canoe lessons and whale watching was amazing.” “Yeah,” he mumbled with his

flimsy, white shirt blowing in the breeze. “What are you talking about?” She faced him, her dress cascading at the back. “What is it, Kel?” She held her ponytail to her shoulder to thwart the breeze. “Are you okay?” “The wedding was beautiful, wasn’t it?” He slipped his fingers between hers. “I don’t know what it is about me and weddings. They put things

in perspective for me.” “Is this about that woman you almost married?” She squinted one eye, looking at him like a little girl. “Amber?” She touched his cheek as he lowered his head. “What did she do to you?” “Not as much as I did to myself.” He rubbed the bridge of his nose. “I don’t think you’ll understand.”

“Tell me.” Her perfume mixed with the salty smell of the ocean. “Look at me,” she whispered. “It’s just us here now. You don’t have to be afraid.” “I’m shaking.” His fingers quivered. “No other woman does that to me. Georgia, I’ve always loved you.” “I know.”

“No, I mean always. Since Omar brought you to my momma’s house that day.” She batted her eyes. “The first day we met?” He ran his hand through his hair but was a wasted effort in the breeze. “Sometimes I was so jealous of Omar I couldn’t see straight.” Her dress blew forward and

touched the crotch of his pants, symbolizing a hand reaching for him. “I was always jealous.” He kissed her hand, tasting the natural saltiness of her skin. “You’re my true love, Georgia.” He went to kiss her but hugged her instead. “I love you too,” she whispered into his chest. “I can’t believe I never knew how you felt.”

He brushed his mouth against her neck. It drove most women wild for a man to lead her to the edge but to let her take control. “I’m yours, Georgia. Now and forever.” She moved her arms up his back, pulling him closer. “My chest’s pounding.” He held his breath to quell the anxiety in his stomach. “Mine too.”

“I feel like a…” She chuckled. “A virgin or something. It’s so surreal.” “How many men have you been with since Omar?” He slipped his hand down the back of her dress but needed her to show him how much she wanted him. To prove that no matter what he did, she would always be there for him. She moved her head from his chest and by holding his chin, guided his

mouth to hers. She lay her plump lips on his, prodding them with her warm tongue. “How…” His breath caught in his throat. “How many?” “None that matter,” she whispered as she kissed him. “Because I only wanted you.” She tickled the roof of his mouth with her tongue. “Just you.” “Who did you love more?” His

cock grew semi-hard. “Me or Omar?” He held the back of her head and pushed his tongue further into her mouth. “Who?” When he pulled away, a thin line of moisture hung from both of their lips. “You.” She kissed him, catching his bottom lip in her mouth. “I could never love him the way I love you.” “I don’t have anything.” He

sighed, lust penetrating his bones. “I didn’t expect that—” “It’s okay.” She kissed him. “I’m on the pill,” she reminded him as if she were granting permission. “And I’m not worried about anything else. I know you’re fine.” “Yes, I am.” He smiled. “Healthy as a horse.” She thrust herself on his chest. “I

want you so bad, Kel.” “Then take me, Georgia.” He licked the taste of her bitter lipstick from his mouth. “I’m yours. I’ve always been yours.” She kissed him rougher, unbuttoning his shirt. With her eyes on his, she got on her knees and unzipped his jeans. Is this really happening?

Kel had fantasized about this for years and now it was happening at night, on a beach, in Honolulu? “Jesus.” He got rock hard. “I want your mouth on me so bad.” “I can’t wait to taste you.” She pulled his jeans to his knees and stared at his jutting crotch. “I’ve always wanted this.” She slipped his jockey shorts down and circled kisses around

his tenderness. Oh god. Kel leaned back as the blood in his body rushed to his middle. She didn’t jump to take him into her mouth. No. She teased him. She kissed and sucked the surrounding skin, making him want her more and more. “Mm.” She planted kisses through the thick hair on his crotch,

while stroking him with her hand. “You smell so good.” He tilted his head, watching her push her hand under her dress and inside her panties. “Oh. God, Georgia.” He almost split from anticipation. “I want you so bad. I don’t think I can hold on, please.” “Hold it, baby.” She removed her hand from his shaft and replaced it

with her lips. “Ooh.” Kel’s toes shot up in the sand. “Ah…” She caught his entire width inside her warm mouth. “Shit.” Kel closed his eyes, rocking his waist to the beat of her mouth. “Don’t stop.” She’d brought her mouth so far up he thought he felt her tonsils.

“Ooh.” He gasped in amazement. “I can’t…” He balled fists, chewing his bottom lip. “Yes…oh shit. Girl, you…” “Mm hmm?” She nodded, proving she felt just as much pleasure from giving as he did receiving. “Uhhmm.” She took her mouth away and dotted tiny kisses along his puckered tip. “Ooh shit.” He jerked, fighting to keep his balance. “In all my dreams I

never thought it would feel this good.” Still sucking him, she pulled off her panties and threw them in the sand. “I can’t believe I’m doing this.” She grabbed his hands, forcing him down on his knees to where they were eye-to-eye. “I love you.” Her smile disappeared. “Please don’t leave me, Kel. I can’t lose anyone else.” “I won’t ever leave you.”

Holding her dress to her waist, he laid her in the sand. “We belong together, Georgia.” He spread her legs. “No one can change that. Not even us.” **** Georgia lay in the sand, ready to experience the man who’d made her a prisoner to her fantasies for years. She spread her arms out to the side, clutching sand within her fingers. Her long,

manicured nails now caked with grit. “Close your eyes,” Kel whispered, planting a gentle kiss on her lips. She nearly came from the aroma of his sweat mixed with the ocean breeze. “I don’t want to.” She raked her gritty hands against his back. “I want to watch you make love to me like I do in my dreams.”

While stroking between her legs, he lay his lips on hers but teased them instead of delivering a kiss. He rubbed her harder, penetrating her from the mere sensation. “Mm.” Georgia tilted her head back in the sand, for once not giving a damn about her hair. He kissed her again, and she arched her back as her nipples

awakened with determined arousal. “Ooh, you feel so good already.” Kel ran his pelvis against her wet entrance but didn’t penetrate. “You want me?” He pulled her dress higher, exposing her bra and breasts. He latched his mouth on her bra cup and by sucking, manipulated her nipple from the top of it. “Oh.” A spark ran from her crotch to her ass. “Don’t stop.” She

pushed her hand into his hair, leaving sand in his dark tresses. “I can’t wait to taste you.” He licked her belly button, letting his tongue take the lead. “Yes, Kel.” She spread her legs wider as he sunk his soft lips into her moist crease. With each lick, her lower lips expanded like the petals of a blooming flower.

He moaned as his caught a piece of skin in his teeth. The biting hurt, but the sensation was worth it. “Yes!” She jerked as his wide tongue edged her closer to orgasm. He lifted his head, and she became wetter seeing his damp lips. He gripped her by the back of her hair and thrust his tongue inside her

mouth, forcing her to savor her own pleasure. “Mm, yes.” He let her mouth go with a smack. “You wanna roll over?” Shit, for him she’d do a summersault right now. Anxious, yet just as curious, Georgia rolled over but kept her face out of the sand. “How did you know?” He kissed her back. “Know

what?” She closed her eyes, moaning. “My fantasy.” He rolled against her, opening her cheeks with his thickness. “Ah.” She gyrated as his cock stretched her, jolting the nerves in her pussy. “Yes.” Georgia pushed her hand underneath her and massaged her clit. “Right there.”

The more he pumped, the harder she rubbed. “Yes, Kel.” She wiggled two fingertips against her sweet spot while he worked her raw hole. He gripped her hips and pounded harder, their slapping skin echoed through the breeze. “Oh, Georgia.” He widening her with his girth though she thought it

impossible for him to get any deeper. “You like this?” “Yes!” Sand gathered on her nipples. “I’m gonna come, Kel.” She moved her ass faster against his groan. “Yes, oh…” Before she got out her scream, Kel roared as if he were a wounded animal. “Ah!” Georgia unleashed as he

slid his dick from her swollen snatch. “My god.” Kel moaned again, collapsing on top of her.

CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR “It’s beautiful out here.” Georgia put her head on Kel’s chest after the fourth bout of lovemaking. He still had his shirt on but his pants and underwear lay beside him, tangled in Georgia’s dress. Georgia moaned. “I can’t believe

we made love on the beach.” Kel propped his arm under his head. “I can’t believe we’re out here buck naked.” “Tell me about it.” She laughed. “Got sand all up in my ass.” They laughed. “It’s like a dream.” She kissed his sandy stomach. “Every part.” “You’re good too, man.”

She giggled as if she were embarrassed. “Shut up.” “I mean it.” He tried to shake off the effects of the aftermath, but they remained even thirty minutes afterward. “I’ve never had sex that good in my life.” “Stop lying.” He raised his hand. “I swear to God. Shoot you’re so good you need a

sexual position named after you.” “You’re not so bad yourself.” She guffawed, kicking her leg. “What was that move from? Where you kicked your leg up like you’re doing Kung Fu?” “I do exercises to stay flexible.” He moved his arm as if he were lifting weights. “You liked that, hmm? That kick move?” “You’re a mess.” She sat up,

snickering. “I bet Wanda’s wondering where we are.” “The way you were hollering she knows where we are.” He got their clothes and handed her, her dress. “Damn you’re loud, Georgia.” “Me?” She shook sand out of her dress. “You’re the one that sounded like a cat being run over.” He touched her hair, leaving bits

of sand in it. “I know you must love me.” “How come?” She smiled with her eyes sparkling. He’d never seen a woman so beautiful in his life. “Because you let me mess up your hair.” She grinned, running her fingers through it. “My bow blew off somewhere, but I don’t care.” He kissed her, the breeze

brushing against their faces. “If I could stay out here with you forever it wouldn’t be long enough.” “You’re always so sweet.” She acted bashful. “Why can’t other men be like you?” “We can make this work, Georgia.” He touched his nose against hers. “But we have to trust each other. We can’t have any secrets.”

“I don’t want us to either.” She caressed his pecks. “I know you love me and that you’ll be there for me no matter what.” “I’ll always be here for you.” He hugged her. “Let it go, Georgia. You can tell me anything.” “I’m so tired of lying.” “It’s okay.” He guided her head to his shoulder and reached into the

pocket of his pants. He cursed himself for being such an asshole and then pushed the button for his phone to record. “You can trust me.” He hated himself already, feeling like she were a clueless animal he led to slaughter. “We’re together now.” She lifted her head and looked him in the eyes. “I wanna tell you everything, Kel.”

“Tell me, baby.” He kissed her. “I promise I’ll understand.” “It’s about Anthony…” She took a deep breath. “I’m—” “Kel!” Wanda yelled in the distance. “Georgia? Are you out here?” “Shit!” Georgia rushed to put on her dress. “Sh.” Kel grabbed her wrist. “Just be quiet and she’ll go away. What

were you gonna say?” “Forget it.” She stood and straightened her dress. “It was nothing.” “No, it was something, damn it. Don’t clam up now.” “It’s nothing.” She gave him a forceful kiss as if to take his mind off the conversation. “We’ll talk about it later.” “Fuck,” he whispered, getting up.

CHAPTER THIRTY-FIVE Two Days Later Osana ran up to Kel’s porch as he set his bags down and dug for his key. “Not now, Osana. We just got back.” “Well, look at you.” She crossed her arms, smirking. “Looks like the Hawaii sun did you good.” “I’m not in the mood, okay?” He walked inside and flicked on the light. “The plane food’s got my stomach

twisting all over the place. I wanna rest.” “You can rest later.” She flounced in and held out her hand. “Give it to me.” He stood to the side, clutching his waist. “What are you talking about?” “I want your cell phone so I can hear Georgia’s confession.” She displayed a sneaky smile. “Let me have

it.” “There’s nothing to have.” He went into the kitchen and got a glass from the dishwasher. She followed. “Nothing to have?” “Osana, this isn’t working.” He filled his glass with ice and tap water and sipped. “I’m out.” “You’re out?” She chuckled.

“You’re in until I say otherwise. You forget what’s at stake?” “I don’t care.” He leaned against the fridge. “Georgia and I are together now. It’s what I always wanted, and I’m not gonna let anyone take her away from me.” She held her waist with frown lines sprouting across her forehead. “She’s a liar.”

“I think she is Anthony’s daughter.” “Then your ass is dumber than I thought. You will get her to tell you the truth.” “Go to hell.” “What did you say?” “Georgia has been through hell and back. You’ll never understand the life she’s had. She lost the man she

loved, she lost her child.” “She killed her child. There’s a difference.” “I feel so sorry for you, Osana.” He shook his head. “Because as long as you have that hate in your heart, you’ll never be happy.” “I’m happy.” She winked. “And rich.” “And we both know money isn’t

everything.” She walked past the counter and stood in front of him. “This isn’t about me.” “Yes it is. You’re jealous because your mother likes her more than she likes you.” Her eyes became watery. “Look at you.” He pointed to her. “You have everything anyone could

want. You’re beautiful, intelligent, rich and you run a billion dollar company. Yet that still isn’t enough. You’re still letting your anger toward your mother control you. You gonna hate her forever?” “I might.” She nodded. “But that’s none of your damn business, is it?” “Why don’t you confront Wanda about it then? Why don’t you two make

things right?” “There’s nothing to confront.” “Grow the fuck up, Osana.” He sipped more water. “Either let it go or work it out. You can’t go like this forever.” “You better call Georgia over here right now and get her to confess the truth.” “Like I said…” He licked water

from his lips. “Do it your damn self.” “If that’s how you want it.” Osana ran to Kel’s front yard. “Oh look. Momma’s by the pool. Momma!” she shouted. “Momma!” “Shut up!” Kel yanked her back, trying to put his hand over her mouth. “What the fuck are you doing?” She bit his hand. “Ow!”

Osana jumped up and down, waving. “Momma!” “Everything all right?” Wanda headed toward the fence. “I gotta tell you something!” Kel grabbed Osana again. “I swear to God if you don’t shut up…” She pushed him. “I told your ass I wasn’t playing.” She raised an eyebrow. “Now you’ll see what double-

crossing me gets you.” Wanda walked through the fence. “What’s going on, girl? You out here screaming like someone’s trying to kill you.” “Momma.” Osana shivered as if she were afraid of Kel. “It’s nothing, Wanda.” Kel jumped in front of Osana with his heart going one hundred miles per hour.

“She’s just playing.” “Playing?” Wanda gaped. “What’s going on?” “Nothing.” Kel turned and shot Osana the evil eye. “Osana’s just being silly.” She smirked. “Sorry we bothered you.” Kel gently pushed Wanda along. “I’m sure you want to relax after the plane ride.

Didn’t you say you were gonna take a nap?” Wanda looked them, squinting. “Since when do you two even talk let alone play with each other?” Kel faked a smile, feeling more awkward than he probably looked. “Kel’s right,” Osana said. “I was just kidding around.” “Whatever.” Wanda walked off,

shaking her head. Kel almost ripped Osana’s arm from its socket. “Don’t you ever do that again.” She sashayed past him. “Then get me what I want or the next time I’ll be talking to the police.” **** “Carol!” Wanda grabbed the plastic packs of brand new underwear

from her dresser drawer. “Carol, come in here now!” Georgia walked in. “What’s going on?” Wanda held up a pair of lacey, pink panties. “Someone took it upon themselves to buy me new underwear and throw mine away.” “What?” Georgia rushed to the dresser. “Why would someone do that?”

“I’m about to find out.” Wanda stood in her bedroom doorway. “Carol!” “Yes, ma’am?” Carol trudged inside. Wanda marched to her underwear drawer, pointing. “Where is my underwear?” Carol went snow-white as if she’d pass out. “I asked you a question.” Wanda

held her hip. “Did you buy this underwear?” “Yes, ma’am.” “And threw mine away?” Carol nodded. Wanda shrugged one shoulder. “Do you mind telling me why you’d do something so strange?” Carol fidgeted, avoiding eye contact.

“Carol, what’s going on?” Georgia walked up to her and took Carol’s shivering hand. “Wanda, she’s shaking out of her skin.” “What is it, Carol?” Wanda asked with a less-direct tone. “Why did you do this?” “I can’t tell you.” She rocked back and forth. “Leave it alone, please.” She tried to leave.

“Wait, a minute.” Georgia jumped in front of her. “Did something happen?” “No.” She dropped her head. “Carol, look at me.” Georgia held Carol by the sides of her arms. “I get a feeling this has to do with Ulysses. Am I right?” “God.” Wanda shivered.

CHAPTER THIRTY-SIX “I don’t know what’s wrong with him.” Carol sobbed. “I’ve never, ever seen him so crazy. He’s always been strange, but I never imagined he’d do what he did.” “What did he do?” Georgia asked. “I walked in here the other day

and he was cutting up Mrs. Spears’ underwear.” Georgia and Wanda exchanged glances. “He looked so creepy.” Carol covered her mouth. “His eyes were so empty, and he was violent.” “Did he hurt you?” Wanda flung her around so Carol faced her. She took a deep swallow. “He

grabbed me and he put the scissors to my neck.” “What?” Georgia shrieked. “My god,” Wanda whispered. “And he told me if I told you what happened he’d come back and kill me.” Carol cried into her hands. “He said he’d kill me!” “It’s okay.” Georgia hugged her. “He’s not gonna hurt you. Wanda, he’s

gone too far this time. You need to call the police.” Wanda paced. “I can’t believe this.” She panted. “I can’t believe he’d do this.” “He’s crazy!” Georgia said. “You have to call the police. You have no choice! Look at what he did to Carol.” Carol trembled in place.

“He could’ve killed her,” Georgia said. “You wanna be next? I sure as hell don’t. What if Ulysses slits our throats in the middle of the night?” “He won’t.” Wanda took out her phone and called the head of security for the grounds. “Mickey, Ulysses is no longer allowed anywhere near this house.” “I don’t understand. Why?” he

asked. “Just make sure he doesn’t enter this house again. I want you guys watching tight and even if you see him driving past, let me know.” “Okay.” She hung up and exhaled. “He won’t be coming back.” “You think that’s going to solve the problem?” Georgia shouted. “He’s

crazy, Wanda! No one can keep him out of this house unless you call the police.” “I’m handling it, Georgia.” Wanda sat on the corner of the bed. “I’m sorry this happened to you, Carol. It never will again. Are you all right?” “Course she’s not all right,” Georgia snapped. “She’s scared to death. Shit I’m scared to death!” “Carol, will you excuse us

please?” Wanda asked. She left and closed the door behind her. “Don’t you think I want to call the police, Georgia? I can’t!” Georgia shook her head, huffing. “You have to.” “Osana will find out about the affair.” Wanda stood. “She hates me already. If she finds out I slept with

Ulysses, she’ll never forgive me and I’ll lose her for good.” “This is your life we’re talking about!” “I don’t have a life without her.” Wanda’s eyes watered. “My daughter is my world and no matter how she feels about me losing her would kill me.” “This is bigger than you and Osana.”

“Let me ask you something.” Wanda squinted. “Would you let anything stand in the way of you and your child?” “No, but I’d want my child to be safe.” “I’m gonna make sure nothing happens. Trust me.” “I would if I knew you could control this.” Georgia left. “Son of a bitch.” Wanda called

Ulysses. He answered on the first ring, “Oh so now you wanna talk?” “You bastard! What the hell is your problem?” She paced. “You attacked Carol—” “Whoa, whoa, whoa. What are you talking about?” “Carol told me you attacked her with scissors.”

“Carol has too much time on her hands because she’s making up stories.” “Liar!” Wanda hit the dresser. “You did it so at least be a man about it.” “Oh I am a man.” Anger corroded his voice. “Yeah, I came into your bedroom and sliced the crotches out of your panties. I had to remind you that that pussy of yours is mine.”

She grew nauseated. “It’s always gonna be mine.” He moaned. “You’re no longer allowed at the house.” She balled a fist. “Security won’t let you anywhere near here, and I swear I’ll kill you if you come near me again.” “I guess I’d better get ready to die.” He smacked his lips. “Because no

amount of security or cops can keep me away from you. I will have you, Wanda. It’s a matter of time.” “You’re sick and you need help, Ulysses.” “The only reason I’m doing this is because you’ve made things so difficult. As far as control, I’ve had it since the beginning, and I always will as long as you don’t want Osana to find out

what happened between us. There’s only one thing you can do to stop this. Come back to me.” “I’d die first.” “So be it.” He groaned. “You still don’t wanna play nice? Maybe you will after the board meeting at Spears Corp on Friday.” “What?” She tightened her grip on the phone. “What are you talking

about?” He grinned. “You’ll see.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-SEVEN During the board meeting on Friday, Wanda did her best to stay calm sitting at the conference table across from Ulysses. The monthly meeting consisted of Spears Corps’ top executives, managers, and a good chunk of investors. The men and women gave Osana their full

attention as she presented her closing remarks. Wanda cut her gaze to Ulysses. He pulled on the label of his crème blazer and leaned forward in his chair. “I’d like to thank you all for coming.” With her hair in an elegant updo and wearing a gorgeous maroon suit and skirt, Osana stood from the table.

“On behalf of all of us at Spears Corp. I’d like to thank the investors for their endless support.” Everyone clapped. “Without them, we’d be nothing.” Osana smiled. “I also would like to thank everyone for coming out and for all the ideas and suggestions you’ve shared. I promise we will take them into full account and make any necessary

improvements along the—” “Osana?” Ulysses raised his hand. “May I say something?” “The meeting is over. You should’ve said something sooner.” “It’s important.” He looked at Wanda and winked. “Trust me.” “What are you up to?” Wanda asked. “It won’t take long, everyone.”

With his hand gripping the front of his blazer, Ulysses strolled to the front of the room. He stopped beside Osana and smiled. “May I?” She looked at the others then stood to the side. “Go ahead.” Ulysses unbuttoned his blazer. “Ladies and gentlemen, I’d like to say that Spears Corp. means the world to me.”

Wanda squinted. “My uncle groomed me within this company, and I only wanted to make him proud.” He dropped his head. “I thought I’d be happy just working here and being around all you lovely people, but I got a calling.” He tapped his chest. “And it’s bigger than anything I’ve ever felt.” He stared at Wanda. “Some things are more important than money.

Happiness is more important than money.” “Ulysses, this isn’t the Grammy awards,” Osana said. “Say what you have to say and sit down. People have things to do.” The old white investor beside Wanda cleared his throat. “As Osana so graciously points out…” Ulysses pointed to her. “People

have things to do. I have things to do, and I realize my job here no longer fits into my plans.” “What?” the blonde woman sitting in front asked. “You see it would be detrimental to the company for me to stay on knowing I can’t do my job.” Ulysses peered at Wanda again. “I’ve tried to concentrate for months now and it’s been

impossible. I can’t do my work, and I have no drive to do so.” He put his arms behind his back. “That’s why I’ve made a difficult decision. I’m leaving Spears Corp.” “What?” Osana shrieked. The others looked at each other, chattering. “Ulysses, what are you talking about?” Osana twisted up to him.

“You’re a part of this company. You can’t just leave.” “I believe my uncle would want me to do what’s right above anything else. He wouldn’t want me being a fraud here. If I can’t give it my all, then I need to leave.” “Why are you doing this?” the black man with the glasses asked. “It makes no sense. You love this company

as much as Anthony did.” “What place do I have here?” He straightened his blazer. “Osana and Wanda own this company. Osana runs it from day to day. I have nothing. If my uncle felt so highly of me, then how come he didn’t leave some of it to me?” “Is that what this is about?” Osana frowned. “And he didn’t leave you a part because you said you were

fine just working here and didn’t want the responsibility of ownership.” “And I don’t.” Ulysses smirked at Wanda. “Then what the hell is your problem?” Osana put her hand on her hip. “What do you want?” Butterflies filled Wanda’s stomach. “There’s only one thing I want,”

Ulysses said. His tone and the way he stared made every part of Wanda’s body cringe. “I can’t explain it so I’ll show you.” He took a DVD out of his blazer pocket. “What’s that?” Osana asked. Wanda’s heart pounded faster and her stomach turned harder. Ulysses got the rolling stand in

the back with the TV and DVD/VCR combo player and pulled it closer to the table. He turned on the TV and slipped in the DVD. Wanda held her breath, trembling. “This will answer questions.” Ulysses got the remote. “Isn’t that right, Wanda?” “Excuse me?” she asked.

He turned on the DVD. The tape began with Wanda and Ulysses entangled within the sheets of his bed. Wanda perched her naked, sweaty body on top of his, riding and moaning. “Oh!” Wanda unintentionally snapped her pencil in two. “Ooh.” With her hands clutching Ulysses chest, Wanda rode faster and

harder. “Yes! Oh yes!” He writhed underneath her. “Give it to me.” Ulysses moaned. “I bet even my uncle never made you feel this good, yeah!” “You monster!” Wanda leapt from the chair. “Turn it off!” Osana watched the screen with balled fists and her mouth open. “What’s the meaning of this?”

The black man with the glasses sprung out his chair. “What is this, Ulysses?” he yelled. “What does it look like?” He slipped his hands in his pockets. “It’s Wanda fucking me like there’s no tomorrow.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-EIGHT “No!” Wanda ran to the front of the room. “You sick son of a bitch!” She shoved Ulysses and turned off the TV. “You monster!” She punched him. “I’m gonna kill you.” She put her hands around his neck and squeezed. “Wanda!” The black man with the glasses grabbed her. “Stop it!”

“Get out of here!” Wanda pushed the man off. “Get the hell out of here!” She jumped up and down, gesturing to the others. “All of you! Get out!” The group grabbed their things and hurried out the room. Ulysses turned to leave. “Not you!” Wanda got in front of him and blocked the door. “You’re not going anywhere.”

“Why not?” He rubbed his hair. “My work here is done.” “You animal!” She pushed him. “How could you do this?” “You did this.” He grimaced. “I told you I was in control, and you forced me to show you.” Osana stared at the TV looking as if someone held a gun on her. “Do you realize what you’ve

done?” Wanda screamed at the top of her lungs. “You taped us having sex!” “I sure did.” “And you showed that in front of the investors and my employees?” Wanda grabbed him by his blazer. “How could you do this, Ulysses?” “I told you not to fuck with me.” He pulled from her grasp. “Everyone needed to see what you are. You seduced

your nephew right after your husband died and the whole world knows it now.” “That’s a lie!” Wanda turned around, grabbing Osana. “Listen, okay?” Osana pulled away from Wanda without looking at her. “Don’t touch me.” “No listen, honey!” Wanda reached for her, but Osana slapped her

hands away and went toward the door. “Wait!” Wanda grabbed Osana’s hand. Osana kept pulling herself to the door despite Wanda’s hold. “Let me explain!” Wanda wailed with tears covering her cheeks. “It’s not what you think!” “It is what you think, Osana,” Ulysses said. “Right after Anthony died,

Wanda, and I had an affair.” “It wasn’t an affair!” Wanda hollered. “It was the worst mistake of my life.” “And I love her,” Ulysses said. “And I’d do anything to get her back. Anything.” “Shut up!” Wanda threw a punch toward him that only hit air. “Osana, we have to talk about this. You need to let

me explain.” “I’ll be sick if I stay in here,” Osana said. “Let me go, Momma.” “Osana, please.” Wanda kept pulling. “Please let me explain!” “Let go of me, you bitch!” Osana hauled around and slapped Wanda so hard that she fell against the wall. “You don’t have shit to say. Nothing!” “Osana!” Wanda rubbed her

stinging cheek. “Please don’t do this. I love you!” “You don’t know the meaning of that word.” Osana stomped toward Ulysses, pointing. “And you. What can I say about you? What can I say?” She slapped him, knocking him into the table. “No wonder you wouldn’t spend time with me!” She cried. “You acted like it was such a chore!”

Ulysses caressed his jaw. “You never wanted me in the first place I bet, huh?” Osana sobbed. “Were you always in love with her? I bet ever since you were a boy, right?” “Osana, please.” Wanda sobbed, tears blinding her. “Please!” “Shut up!” Osana ordered Wanda without looking at her. “I saw how you would look at her and how every time

we fought you took up for her,” she told Ulysses. “I was just so desperate for you to love me I ignored it! But you two are sick!” She went to the door and flung it open. People watched from the hallway with wide eyes and open mouths. “I never ever wanna see you again, Ulysses.” Osana huffed, puffed,

and focused on Wanda. “You think I hated you before? Bitch, you ain’t seen nothing yet.” “Osana, please.” Wanda rushed to her. “Can we talk about this at home later?” “Don’t bother.” She marched to the door in high heels. “I won’t be at home.” ****

That night, Georgia broke out in tears as she looked out Kel’s bedroom window. “What’s wrong?” Kel pulled up his shorts and walked to her with the sheet. “Why are you crying?” He wrapped the sheet around her naked body. “What is it?” “I’m a fake and a fraud.” She shuffled to the bed with the sheet

twisting around her feet. “I’ve lied to everyone in this house.” She sat, clutching the sheet. “And I lied to you too.” Kel sat on the windowsill, his innocent expression killing Georgia by the moment. Georgia covered her eyes with her hand. “This is so hard.” “Seems like it’s been harder for

you to keep this secret.” He climbed into the bed. “Don’t stop now, Georgia. Free yourself.” “I’m not Anthony’s real daughter.” She batted her eyes through the tears. He glanced at his cellphone on the end table and sighed. “My mother had an affair with Anthony, but I’m not his daughter. Teddy

found me and told me everything.” Kel leaned over on his elbow. “When my mother first got pregnant, she thought I was Anthony’s daughter but she had a secret.” She sniffled. “My mother was seeing another man the same time she was seeing Anthony. It wasn’t until after I was born that she found out Anthony wasn’t my dad.”

“Teddy told you this?” “I didn’t know but Teddy kept in touch with my mother through the years. He’d try to send her money to help us but being stubborn, she wouldn’t take it.” Kel batted his eyes. “I’m confused.” “When Momma died, Teddy told me everything. He asked me to help him get back at Anthony. He never got over

how his dad gave Anthony everything.” Georgia sighed. “When he told me Anthony abandoned my mother and I, I wanted to get back at him too.” Kel’s mouth dropped. “But, he’s not your father.” “I didn’t care.” She wiped tears with the sheet. “I blamed him because he thought I was his child and the fact that he didn’t care infuriated me.”

“But Anthony tried to find you.” “I didn’t know that until I came here and learned how Anthony felt about me.” “You mean Teddy lied to you to get Anthony’s money.” “I didn’t care about the money.” Another tear escaped her eye. “I did it because I was so full of hate and venom because Anthony represented every

deadbeat dad in this world. He was the reason I suffered and the reason I went through all the problems I had growing up.” She gripped his hand. “He might not be my real father, but he thought he was. That’s what mattered.” Kel scooted up to the headboard. “Teddy used you.” “I’m sorry, Kel.” She cried into her hands. “I’m so sorry.”

“Sh.” He held her. “It’s okay.” He stroked her hair as she laid her head on his chest. “I blame Teddy for this.” She raised her head. “I made the choice to participate.” “Teddy manipulated you.” He exhaled. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s hiding something else.” “He’s been acting funny lately. Every time I see him he’s pissed at me.”

“Stay away from him.” “Teddy would never hurt me or anything.” She sat up. “I wish I knew why he hated Anthony so much. I can tell that it’s more than the money.” “Teddy was always jealous.” Kel put his arm around her. “When they were growing up, Anthony was the favorite because he was the oldest.

Teddy got into some problems during his teenage years, and it drove a wedge between him and their parents. He seems to blame everything that’s gone wrong in his life on Anthony. Anthony used to joke and say, ‘If you ever find me in the garden with a knife in my back you’ll know who put it there.’” Georgia trembled. “Did he really think Teddy would hurt him?”

“He claimed he was joking, but I’m not sure.” Kel scratched his head. “Hate is a powerful emotion and drives people to do terrible things.” “I’m gonna leave and forget this ever happened.” “Aren’t you tired of running away from things?” “Wanda will hate me once she knows the truth.” Georgia sat Indian-

style with the sheets twisted around her legs. “And Osana will be bragging about how right she was.” “You’re the last thing on Osana’s mind right now.” “Don’t bet on it.” He rubbed her hair. “I’m sorry, Georgia.” “Why are you apologizing?” “I’m sorry that you let hate take

over your heart and overshadow the lovely person you are.” He kissed her hand. “What you did tonight is the first step to making things right.” “I have to tell Wanda the truth.” She held her breath. “I can’t imagine what she’ll think.” “We all make mistakes.” He looked at his cellphone, sighing. “Even me.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-NINE “How could she do this, Shad?” Osana cried into her tissue as Shad held her in his bed. “It’s not even about Ulysses. She’s my mom. What’s wrong with me?” Shad caressed her back. “What do you mean?” “Why don’t people care about

me? Why don’t they love me?” “Nothing is wrong with you.” He kissed her cheek. “Wanda and Ulysses should be ashamed of themselves. It’s their problem not yours.” “She didn’t give a damn about how embarrassing it was for me to stand up there today and have the entire world see her and Ulysses fucking!” She kicked underneath the sheet. “What about the

company and our reputations?” “Ulysses has got to be one sick fuck to do what he did.” “Well it’s done now.” Osana slapped tears away and regained her composure. “It’s time for revenge.” “What type of revenge?” “I’m gonna hit her where it hurts.” His eyes widened.

“You want to be a part of Spears Corp.? Fine with me.” She balled up the tissue. “I’m going to sell you my share.” He leaned back. “What?” “Once you get my half, it won’t be hard to push her out. I’m sure after that stunt today the board won’t want her representing the company. No way in hell.” “Honey, listen.” Shad patted her

thigh. “I never wanted you to give up your part. You love the company. I want to work with you.” “We can still do that. Buy my part of Spears Corp. so you can get control of it and sell me a portion. Momma won’t be able to fight it. I have more stake in that company than she does.” He breathed heavier. “Do you

have any idea how much you’re turning me on?” “I’ve been thinking about her damn feelings all this time, and she’s doing this dirt behind my back? She has no business with a share of Anthony’s company. She has no loyalty to him whatsoever.” “You sure you wanna do this?” “Oh yeah.” Her heart beat faster

the more she thought about sticking it to her mother. “Hell yeah, and I’m getting Miss Georgia’s ass too. You know what I did while they were in Hawaii? I sent Georgia and Teddy’s DNA to be tested.” “Come again? How did you manage to do that?” “I got a sample from Georgia’s toothbrush, and remember the investigator I told you about that worked

with Teddy? He paid Teddy a little visit for me and while they had lunch, got a sample from his glass when he wasn’t looking.” Shad batted his eyes. “Um—” “I did one of those home DNA tests and sent the samples to a lab. I should get the results soon, and I bet your sexy ass it’s gonna say they aren’t a match. And, if she and Teddy don’t

match she’s definitely not Anthony’s daughter.” “That’s beyond extreme, isn’t it?” She shrugged, huffing. “I had to do something.” “What if she really is Anthony’s daughter?” “She’s not. I said I’ll protect Anthony, and I won’t rest until the truth

is out.” He pushed her down and got on top of her. “You’re fucking amazing!” He snatched the cover off and spread her legs. “Keep talking like this. It’s so hot.” “I’m gonna get her ass. Oh.” Osana moaned as Shad slid inside her. “Soon everyone will know that Georgia Arnett is no more Anthony’s daughter than I am.”

**** The next morning, Abby walked out onto Shad’s patio with breakfast. “Here you go.” She set the silver tray of blueberry pancakes, poached eggs, bacon, and freshly squeezed orange juice on the little table between Osana and Shad. “Ooh wee this smells as good as it looks.” Resting in the lounge chair,

Osana set a plate on her lap. “I love blueberry pancakes.” She smiled at Shad. “How did you know?” “I didn’t.” He reached for his plate and glass of juice. “I love blueberry pancakes myself. And that’s turkey bacon.” “I love turkey bacon.” Osana bit into the crisp, salty slice. “Mm.” She poured a thin line of maple syrup over

her pancakes and cut them up. “They’re so light and fluffy.” “That’ll be all, Abby.” Shad smiled at her. She nodded and left with the tray. Osana chewed the fluffy pancake and sweet syrup. “You didn’t have to do this.” “It’s just breakfast.” He winked, chewing. “I gotta admit I was shocked

that you showed up last night with your bags and all.” “You didn’t seem to mind.” She grinned, biting off a tip of bacon. “I’ve had a lot on my mind concerning you.” “Which is?” She poured more syrup on her pancakes. “I want to make sure you know I’m sincere. You seem to think of me as

some kind of player.” “Aren’t you?” “I told you I would slow down if I found a woman worth slowing down for.” Osana shivered from the intensity of his stare. “What are you saying, Shad?” “I really like you.” He reached over and caressed her wrist. “It’s been a

long time since I felt so in tune with someone. I know when we first started hanging out you thought I was coming on to you to get you to join companies.” “Kind of.” She wiggled her foot. “But I didn’t mind.” “But that was never the case, Osana.” He leaned forward. “I was using the possible partnership as an excuse to get close to you.”

“Hmm.” She contemplated as she chewed. “I never thought of that way.” “Through the years, I’ve watched you, and it had nothing to do with business.” She grabbed another piece of bacon. “Why didn’t you say something before?” He sat back in his chair, stroking his chin. “You intimidate me.”

She laughed. “Bullshit!” “I’m serious.” He stared at her with puppy dog eyes. “I always saw you as a challenge. Probably the biggest one I’d ever face. I want us to be together.” He grabbed her hand. “As a couple.” She stared at his hand over hers. “You want love, right?” His voice cracked. “I can give you that, Osana. I can give you anything you’ve

ever wanted.” “Are…” She took a deep breath. “Are you saying you’re in love with me?” “You should already know.” He leaned over and kissed her. Abby walked out. “Shad? There’s a visitor.” He pulled his lips from Osana’s and gave her a look that made her want

to fuck him right there. To hell with Abby or anyone else. “I wasn’t expecting anyone.” He wiped his mouth. “Who is it?” Abby passed an awkward glance to Osana. “It’s Mrs. Spears.”

CHAPTER FORTY Osana nearly dropped her plate. “What the hell?” She scooted to the edge of the chair. “What is my mother doing here?” “Do you want me to let her in?” Abby asked. “Yes,” Shad said. “Wait!” Osana stood. “Yes?” She

leaned over Shad. “Are you crazy?” “I thought you didn’t care what she thought anymore.” “You’re right.” She sat down, holding her robe closed. “Yeah let her ass in. I’m gonna enjoy rubbing this in her face.” Abby brought Wanda out to the patio then left. Wanda stood in front of Osana

and Shad’s chairs but didn’t seem shocked by what she saw. “Wanda.” Shad stood and kissed her hand. “It’s lovely to see you as always.” She snatched her hand away. “We’ll see about that.” He sat back down, smirking. “What are you doing here, Osana?”

“I could ask you the same thing, Momma.” She hooked her arm on the back of her chair. “How did you know where I was?” “I overheard Gino say he brought you some clothes over here last night. I was worried.” Osana faked a yawn. “Since when?” “You were very upset so I was

afraid you’d do something stupid.” Wanda glared at Shad. “Looks like I was right. Now answer my question. What are you doing here?” Shad straightened up. “Well she —” “I asked her, not you.” Wanda rolled her eyes. “Osana, I want an answer and it better be good.” “I don’t know who the hell you

think you are walking up in here like I have to answer to you.” She got her juice. “I’m a grown damn woman.” “Is this payback for what I did? You’re here to get back at me?” Osana sipped juice then set her glass on the table. “Shad and I’ve been seeing each other for your information.” Wanda’s mouth hung open. “You’ve got to be kidding me.”

Osana shook her head as she took another bite of bacon. “You mean to tell me you’ve been dating our rival?” Wanda pointed at him. “Osana, you know damn well this man just wants our company!” “Wanda, I thought we were friends.” Shad laid his hand on his chest as if to mock her reaction. “I thought you liked me.”

“I did like you until you started pressuring me to sell to you. It’s never gonna happen.” She stood by Osana’s chair. “What the hell is your problem? He’s using you!” Osana laughed. “I’m using his ass too.” “You go on and on about how much you loved Anthony but you’d sell him out like this?”

“Oh you better take it down a notch, lady.” Osana stood, pointing in Wanda’s face. “I’m not the one banging my dead husband’s nephew.” Wanda raised her hand but hesitated. “Slap me.” Osana stuck her face out. “Go on. Hitting me would be the only way you’d pay me any attention.” “I’m not doing this.” Wanda

exhaled. “I’m not letting you bring me down to your level.” “My level?” Osana shrieked. “Honey, you’ve done more dirt than I ever have.” “I’m your mother.” Wanda balled fists, tears filling her eyes. “Stop treating me this way!” “You’ve never acted like a mother.” Osana poked Wanda’s chest.

“You were never there when I needed you so don’t you dare pull that mother card on me now. Besides, now you got the daughter you always wanted, right?” “This has nothing to do with Georgia. I could never love her the way I love you.” “And how do you love me, Momma?” Osana sat back down and crossed her legs. “It must be invisible

because I never see it.” “How can you say that? Yes I know I wasn’t there for you the way I should’ve been, but I did that to give you the best life you could have.” “But I never wanted any of that shit. Damn after all these years you still don’t understand that all I wanted was a mother.” Shad looked at her.

“I wanted a real fuckin’ mother! I settled for everything else.” Osana leaned up. “I would give up every penny just for you to one time…one time look at me the way you look at Georgia.” A tear fell from her eye. “You’ve never attempted to be there for me and you never even wanted to get to know me. You need to admit you weren’t a mother to me.”

“I have.” “No, you haven’t.” Osana slapped the tear off her cheek. “You make excuses every time, and I’m sick of it.” “I’ve tried to talk to you but you shut me out.” Wanda leaned over, grabbing Osana’s hands. “I love you. You’re my blood.” “Hmm.” Osana crossed her arms.

“I guess blood ain’t always thicker than water, huh?” “Can we please go somewhere and talk in private?” “I don’t have anything to say to you. Oh wait.” Osana stuck her finger in the air. “I do have something to say. Momma, meet your soon-to-be business partner.” She gestured to Shad. “I’m selling my part of the company to him.”

Wanda’s eyes got wide as baseballs. “Have you lost your mind?” “Nope.” Osana took Shad’s hand. “It’s what I wanna do.” “Stop this!” Wanda shouted. “You know damn well you love that company. Do you hate me so much you’ll sell something so dear to you to get back at me?” “You claim you love me.” Osana

stood. “Then do something for me for once. If you don’t want me to sell then sell your half of the company.” “No!” “I want to run the business with Shad, not you.” “Osana, please!” Wanda grabbed her. “You can hate me all you want but you’re not thinking. You’d die without that company.”

“I don’t want to sell my half but if you sold yours than I wouldn’t have to. What’s it gonna be? You gonna sell your half so I can keep mine?” “There is no way in hell that Shad Sidney is getting any piece of Spears Corp.!” Wanda swung her arms. “Never!” “Then we play hardball.” Osana sat in Shad’s lap. “Either way Shad’s

gonna get a piece.” Wanda huffed. “Looks like that’s not all he’s getting a piece of.” “I just saw a video of you doing your husband’s nephew.” Osana grimaced. “You’re not one to judge me on who I sleep with.” “So you are sleeping with him? How could you do this, Osana?” Wanda shook her purse. “Anthony wanted the

company to stay in the family. You know how much that meant to him. He trusted that when he left you in charge it always would.” “Just like he trusted that you wouldn’t fuck his nephew?” Wanda shook her head, scoffing. “The company will still be in the family.” Osana put her arm around Shad and kissed him. “Either you’ll have your

half or I’ll have mine. But Shad’s going to be a part of Spears Corp. and you’d better get used to it.” “Over my dead body,” Wanda growled. “As long as I’m breathing there is no way Shad is running Spears Corp. You think he’d settle for just half? Get real! He’d get half then eventually get every piece of it and that’s not happening!”

Osana shrugged one shoulder. “Like I said we play hardball then.” “I’m an equal partner, little girl. You can’t push me out.” Wanda walked toward the glass doors. “The only way you’ll get my part is if I died. If you wanna play hardball then hardball it is!” She left.

CHAPTER FORTY-ONE Osana flounced past Shad’s secretary that evening, entered Shad’s office, and closed the door. “Yeah,” Shad said into the phone. “Eh, let me call you back in a minute. Okay bye.” He hung up. “Oh, it’s gonna be more than a minute.” Osana locked his door and

threw her purse on the little chair by his file cabinets. “Mm.” He sucked his lip. “And what brought on this surprise?” She unbuttoned her blouse on the way to his desk. “Been thinking a lot about what you said this morning.” “I see.” He scooted his black, leather chair from the desk and faced her. “I take it you mean the part where I

said I was falling in love with you?” “Yep.” She straddled his lap and pecked kisses down his neck. “It was so sweet. I didn’t know you were feeling me that way.” “How could you not?” He cupped her buttocks in his large hands. “Just how I touch you should tell you how I feel.” “Think of this as an apology.”

She slipped off her blouse, revealing her lacy, pink bra. “Every time we’re together I had other things on my mind.” She unbuttoned his shirt. “From now on I’m all yours.” “Oh.” He reclined back with his eyes closed. “You don’t know how much I want this but we can’t.” “We can.” She gave him a rough kiss and tore her mouth away. “We are.”

“What’s gotten into you?” He gripped her waist. “I got a meeting in a few minutes.” “Yeah, you got a meeting all right.” She undid his belt. “Your body with mine.” “Osana. Woo.” He shook his legs as if to fight the temptation. “Honey, we can do this after work but right now I can’t.”

“You don’t have to do anything.” She unzipped his pants and got on her knees. “Let me do the work.” “Osana.” He moaned. “God, I have a meeting.” She pulled down his pants and his underwear. “Jesus.” He held her head as she made love to him with her mouth. “Oh… ah.” He leaned back further in the chair.

“Yes.” The phone on his desk beeped. “Mr. Sidney?” the secretary asked. “Are you busy, Sir?” “Um.” He held Osana’s head in place while he pushed the button. “No, I’m here. What is it?” Osana took him further into her mouth. “Ooh, shit.” Shad tensed up

against her. “Mr. Sidney?” the secretary asked. “I’m sorry. Yes. I’m coming. I mean I’m here.” Osana grinned while sucking him. “Mrs. Wanda Spears is here to see you,” the secretary said. “Shit!” Osana jumped up, wiping

her mouth. “My mom?” “Tell her I’m in a meeting,” Shad said into the speaker. “Nice try, Shad,” Wanda answered. “I’m coming in.” “No.” Osana got her blouse. “My purse!” She ran across the room and got her purse off the chair. “I gotta hide!” “Why do you care?” Shad stood, fixing his pants.

“I don’t want to deal with her right now. Get rid of her!” She ducked behind the file cabinet just as Wanda stormed in. Osana watched from behind the cabinet. “Wanda.” Shad walked from around his desk and extended his hand to her. “This is a pleasant surprise.” “Save it.” She snatched her purse

off her shoulder. “We have some unfinished business.” “Do we?” He sat down, the leather chair squeaking from the movement. “I don’t appreciate what you’re doing.” “And what am I doing?” He clasped his hands on the desk. “You’re using my daughter and

it’s gonna stop now.” “Osana isn’t the type to let someone use her. Besides, it was her idea to sell to me. She mentioned it right before you showed up at my place. I didn’t force her into doing anything.” “I don’t buy that.” “It’s the truth.” Shad rocked. “Osana knows that our companies teaming up would be a wonderful

opportunity. Take chances in this life Wanda or you won’t get anywhere.” “Spears Corp. is doing just fine.” “It can do better.” He smirked. “Don’t you want the best for your company? The best for your daughter?”’ “I want you to stay away from my daughter.” She leaned over his desk. “If you hurt her, I swear to God I—” “You mean if I hurt her more than

you have?” He rocked. “I don’t think that’s possible, do you?” “I’m warning you.” She knocked his stapler off the desk. “Don’t mess with my daughter.” Osana held her breath. “Despite what’s happened between me and Osana I love her more than anything, and I’d die before I let you hurt her. I swear to God, Shad.”

“Wow,” Shad said. “Is there anything else?” “Go to hell.” Wanda marched out the office. Osana crept from behind the cabinet. “You heard her threaten me.” Shad pointed toward the door. “What happened to the sweet and reserved Wanda?” he mocked.

Osana stared at the door. “Can you believe how she acted?” Shad got his stapler off the floor. “Anyway, she needs to realize you’re a grown woman, and you can do what you want.” “She stood up for me.” Osana approached the desk, stunned. “She never defended me like that before. Never.”

“She did what a mother’s supposed to do.” He checked his watch. “I’m late for my meeting.” He kissed her but it barely registered. “You okay?” Osana buttoned her blouse, reflecting on Wanda’s actions. “Yeah.” “See you later.” He pinched her ass, winking. “Then we’ll finish what you started.” ****

Two days later in the greenhouse, Osana listened to the recording of Georgia admitting she wasn’t Anthony’s daughter. Kel sat on the little bench, watching her with a stare that made her want to run and hide. After the confession, Osana lacked the enthusiasm she assumed she’d have if she ever proved the truth.

“What’s wrong?” Kel asked. His voice laced with sarcasm. “I emailed the file to you too.” “Okay.” Osana sighed, curling her fingers around Kel’s phone. “Why aren’t you jumping up and down?” He mocked. “What’s the matter with you?” “Kel—” “What?” He stood and grabbed

her. “Come on, dance!” He shook her. “Come on, Osana!” “Stop it!” She tried to pull away from him. “Wake the fuck up!” He snapped his fingers in her face. “You wanted this!” He grabbed the phone. “I recorded Georgia for you! I went behind the back of the woman I love for you!” His lips trembled. “Why the hell aren’t you

happy?” “That’s a good question.” Georgia stood at the doorway, scowling. “Why aren’t you happy, Osana?” “Georgia.” Kel looked back and forth at her and Osana, running his hand through his hair. “How long have you been there?” “Long enough to know you’re a lying bastard!” She turned around and

walked off. “Georgia, wait!” Kel ran out the greenhouse. Osana sat on the bench and dropped her head. “What’s wrong with me?”

CHAPTER FORTY-TWO “Georgia!” Kel chased her through the yard. “Listen, please.” “Listen to what?” She swung around. “Listen to how you set me up? Listen to how you used me!” “Wait. You don’t understand.” “I understand every damn thing!”

She threw her hand in his face. “You recorded me telling you I wasn’t Anthony’s real daughter and you did it for Osana. What else do I need to know?” “I love you.” He grabbed her. “I didn’t wanna do it.” “Really?” She pushed him away. “But you did it.” “You don’t understand! I didn’t

have a choice. Georgia, I hated myself the minute I agreed. I stalled and stalled but I had no choice.” “How could you do this?” She tilted her head, tears falling. “I trusted you. I thought you’d always have my back.” “I do.” He pulled her into a tight hug. “I’m so sorry, Georgia.” “Let go of me.” She shoved him.

“If you were sorry then you wouldn’t have done it.” “Georgia, you’ve been lying to everyone.” He held up his arm. “Isn’t that the truth?” “But I didn’t lie to you.” “Osana was blackmailing me.” She threw her head back and laughed. “It’s the truth.”

“With what?” she snapped. “What does she have on you?” “Come here.” He took her hand and pulled her to his house. **** Georgia sat on Kel’s couch ten minutes later, struggling to take in his confession. After pacing for forever, he sat beside her. “I swear to God I didn’t

know Amber was only seventeen.” She pushed her hands between her thighs. “You assumed people would believe Osana raped you because of your past? Kel—” “They would.” He sighed, lowering his head. “I’m labeled a sex offender, and people wouldn’t understand. Osana took advantage of that.”

“But you didn’t trust me. You didn’t trust Wanda either. We care about you. I care about you, and I know the man you are.” He wiped a tear. “I thought you’d be disgusted or wouldn’t understand.” “I’m more upset about your deal with Osana.” She stood and got her purse from the couch. “I won’t lose you again.” He

stood, grabbing her. “You should’ve thought about that before you went behind my back.” She marched to the door. “Georgia, please!” He ran behind her, pulling her back. “Omar would never have done this.” She opened the door. “How can I be with you after this?” “Georgia, you’re not innocent

either.” He got on his knees with tears in his eyes. “I’m sorry, baby. I never set out to hurt you, and it’ll never happen again.” “I’m done.” She started toward the fence. “I won’t lose you again, Georgia!” he yelled from the porch. “You already have,” she said without turning back. ****

Wanda walked into the greenhouse. “Osana?” “I gotta go.” She jerked up and turned, hiding her tears from Wanda. “Wait. We need to talk.” “I can’t do this right now.” She tried to walk around, but Wanda remained in front of her. “Why are you crying?” “I’m not…” Osana wiped her

eyes. “It’s allergies with all these flowers and stuff.” “You’re lying.” Wanda wiped a tear off her cheek. “I have to go.” “Be careful, okay?” Wanda moved aside. “I get this feeling that Ulysses is up to something. Look.” She took a gun from her purse. “Where on earth did you get

that?” “Mickey gave it to me. Ulysses has disappeared.” Wanda put the gun back in her purse. “No one has seen him or heard from him since the meeting.” She exhaled and sat on the bench. “He hasn’t been at his place either.” Osana shrugged as if she weren’t afraid but she was. “You should celebrate instead of worrying.”

“This is serious.” Wanda patted her purse. “He’s planning something, and I gotta be ready for him. You’d better be ready too.” “You’re talking crazy.” Osana trekked to the door. “Anyway, I can take care of myself. I’ve been doing it all these years.” Wanda stood. “Are you staying with Shad?”

Osana walked out without answering. “Osana?” Wanda shouted from the door. “Be careful!”

CHAPTER FORTY-THREE “Ms. Royal?” Clarice walked into Osana’s office that evening. “You staying longer?” She looked at her watch. “It’s time to go home.” “Yeah, I’m gonna be busy here for a while.” Osana scanned the reports in her reading glasses. “I can’t believe that new accountant screwed up like this.

This is why I don’t like to hire newbies fresh out of school.” “Why don’t you let the senior accountant handle it?” “He’s part of the reason we’re in this mess.” She read another jacked up financial report. “Thank god I have a degree in finance.” Clarice approached the desk. “How long are you staying?”

Shad strolled in with a smile as big as Osana’s office. “I’d like to know the answer to that question myself.” “Mr. Sidney.” Clarice fidgeted, blushing. “What can I do for you, sir? We’re closing for the day.” “Don’t trouble yourself, Clarice.” His cologne reached Osana before he did. “I came for this lovely lady.” He sat on the edge of her desk.

“Well, I’ll see you tomorrow, Ms. Royal.” Clarice gave Shad a shaky smile. “Goodbye, Mr. Sidney.” He nodded. “Clarice.” She rushed out the door. “She likes you,” Osana said while studying figures. “What woman doesn’t like me?” He took the paper from her. “I came to rescue you. We have a date, remember?”

“I’ll take a raincheck.” She took the paper back. “The new accountant screwed up the latest financial reports and it’ll take all night to fix.” “That’s fine.” He stood, taking off his blazer. “We can order Chinese, and I can help you.” He went behind the desk. “Two is better than one.” “No.” She sat back. “I’m fine.” His smile disappeared. “You

want me to go?” She took her glasses off. “I’d like to be alone.” “What is it?” He walked back to the front of the desk with his lips poked out. “When I came to pick you up for lunch today, you had an excuse. Now there’s another one. You know damn well these reports can wait. Is it me?” “No.” She set the papers down

and moved her glasses to the side. “You were fine the other day, but ever since Wanda came to my office you haven’t been the same.” “It got to me.” She clasped her hands. “She never stood up for me like that before, and I can’t stop thinking about our relationship and everything. Guess what I found out earlier?” She lifted the half-empty soda can.

“Georgia’s not Anthony’s daughter just like I said.” She sipped cola from the can. “She confessed, and I got her on tape.” “How did you manage that?” “It doesn’t matter.” She swallowed the surgery drink that had lost its sizzle. “What matters is that I’ve been waiting for this since Georgia came and now I don’t even care.”

He squinted. “I haven’t told my mom. It would devastate her to learn Georgia lied.” He raised an eyebrow. “But you didn’t care about that before.” “I know.” She touched her hair. “But, I see the big picture now.” “Honey, I’m confused.” He put his hands in his pockets. “I’m tired of feeling like this,

Shad.” She closed her eyes. “I’m tired of carrying around all this hate and animosity. It’s time to let it go.” “You can’t change the past.” She dropped her pencil. “But I can change the future.” “I’m proud of you.” He walked to the side of her desk and kissed her cheek. “I think this will be great for you, and you deserve happiness.”

“You do too. You’re a good man, Shad.” He ran his finger across her cheek. “You’re a good woman.” She gripped his hand, closing her eyes. “Have you thought about what I said? I’m falling in love with you, but you never said how you feel about me.” His voice cracked as if he were in pain.

“I like spending time with you.” She shifted her gaze from his face. “What woman wouldn’t? We have fun together, and I love when you hold me and the sex is amazing.” She grinned. “You’re a wonderful distraction.” “Is that all?” She batted her eyes. “I don’t understand.” “Let me put it this way.” He sat

on the corner of her desk and laid his hands in his lap. “When I get up in the morning, you’re the first thing I think about. When we’re not together, I feel emptiness because I miss you so much.” She covered her mouth. “Whatever we’ve been doing is great, but I want us to be a couple. Do you need to be with me opposed to wanting to be? Being with you is a need

for me.” “Do I yearn to be with you?” She sighed. “Like I couldn’t function unless I see you?” His shoulders dropped and his startled expression told her he knew the answer. “I don’t feel that way about you, Shad. I’m sorry.” “Well uh…” He swung his leg.

“Never be sorry for telling the truth.” He smiled through the obvious heartbreak. “I’d never want a woman to settle for me if that’s not what she wants.” “I care about you very much.” She stood, pulling him into a tight hug. “You’re probably the best friend I’ve ever had.” “Friend?” A tear appeared in his eyes. “Will you ever want more?”

“Right now I have to focus on me and it’s not fair I keep you dangling, wondering if this will turn into something because I don’t know.” She shrugged. “I have to make things right with my mother or I won’t ever be able to love anyone. That’s what’s been holding me back, and it’s time I faced it.” “I’ve always been in love with

you, Osana.” He batted away tears. “I never had the courage to admit that.” She hugged him again. “You deserve happiness.” “You do too.” He kissed her hand. “What happens now with us?” “I don’t wanna lose your friendship.” She held his hand against her chest. “I need all the friends I can get.”

“I’ll always be there for you.” He gave her a soft kiss then stood from the desk. “Guess that’s my cue, huh?” “You don’t have to leave.” “Yes I do.” He got his blazer and slipped it on. “I’m the one who needs to be alone now.” “I’m sorry.” She stroked his cheek one last time. “I never wanted to hurt you.”

“You take care of yourself.” He went to the door then stopped. “So I guess business wise we…” She shook her head. “That’s off too.” He tapped the door. “If you need me I’ll always be there.” She got butterflies. “Damn, I’m gonna miss the fun we have.” He half-smiled. “Me too.” He

slumped out the office. “Jesus.” Osana took a deep breath and sat behind her desk. Her computer alerted her of a new email from the DNA test lab. “Too little too late.” She opened the email and her eyes popped out of their sockets at the results. “My god.” She read it repeatedly to make sure her eyes weren’t playing tricks.

The results said that Georgia and Teddy’s DNA matched almost 100 percent. Osana covered her mouth. “This can’t be.” She studied the results again. “Oh my god. She is Anthony’s daughter.” She sat back, wondering why Georgia would pretend not to be then it hit her. “Shit, she doesn’t even know.” Osana yanked up the phone and dialed

Georgia’s cell number. “Come on.” She tapped the desk. “Pick up.” “Osana,” Georgia answered. “I’m not in the mood for you right now. I’m packing and getting the hell out of Santa Barbara.” “You’re leaving?” “What do you care? You got what you wanted. You can tell Wanda because I can’t bear to hurt her like that.

I’m sure you can’t wait. I’m surprised you haven’t already told her.” “Would you shut up and listen?” Osana rubbed her forehead. “I got something important to say. You’re—” “I don’t wanna hear anything from you.” “You’re Anthony’s daughter!” Silence. “Georgia?” Osana shook the

phone. “Are you there?” “What the hell are you trying to pull?” “Nothing. You’re his daughter, Georgia.” She panted into the phone. “This isn’t funny.” “Trust me. I’m the last one who would claim you were Anthony’s daughter if it weren’t true. I had a

DNA test done on you and Teddy and it’s a perfect match, proving you’re Anthony’s daughter.” “What?” she shrieked. “You had a DNA test done on us?” “When you were in Hawaii.” “You mind explaining how you got our DNA without us knowing?” “Does it matter? I just got the results back. Listen.” Osana read the

results. “Georgia, you are his daughter.” “How can this be?” she shouted. Osana exhaled. “Well, you’re either his or Teddy’s.” “If I’m Anthony’s daughter then Teddy tricked me?” “Yeah, Teddy’s conniving ass.” Osana nodded. “He used you, Georgia. He knew damn well you were Anthony’s daughter, and he made you believe you

weren’t.” “Why would he do something like that?” Sorrow tore through her voice. Osana stared at the email. “I think you’d better find out.” “Email me a copy of those results.” Osana typed. “Done.”

CHAPTER FORTY-FOUR “Just a minute!” Teddy ran down the stairs of his condominium and answered the front door. Georgia waltzed inside. “How could you do it?” He closed the door. “Come again?” “You’ve been playing with me

all this time so don’t you dare do it now!” She grabbed him by the shirt. “Why did you lie?” “About what?” “Come on, Teddy!” She let him go. “You can drop the innocent act. I know Anthony’s my father.” He avoided her angry stare and went into his living room. Georgia stomped in after him.

“Say something!” She threw her purse on the glass coffee table. Teddy sat on the couch, massaging his fist. “What do you want me to say?” “You asshole.” She sat on the table. “Why did you make me think he wasn’t my father? How could you do something like that?” “What difference does it make if

he really was your dad?” He hooked his fingers. “He abandoned your ass. You’ve been saying all this time you wanted to get after your father well I helped you get your revenge.” “How could you do something so selfish?” She kicked his foot. “You lied to me all this time. What about that crap about my mother seeing another man when she was with Anthony? You

invented all of this so I’d do your dirty work!” She burst into tears. “Teddy?” “Anthony took everything from me.” He felt that reoccurring rage build up just by mentioning his brother’s name. “Ever since we were kids he got every damn thing.” “It’s not his fault that your father didn’t leave you money—” “I’m not talking about the damn

money!” Spit flew from his mouth. “He took much more from me. He took the woman I loved.” “What are you talking about?” “Elene.” Her beautiful smile, caramel skin and curly hair popped into his head. “She was the one person I loved with all my heart.” “You were with my mother?” Georgia swallowed.

He cracked his knuckles, remembering the first time Elene met Anthony. “She was mine first. I got her the job at the mansion and after she met him, she changed. She didn’t look at me the same anymore, and that glow she always had when she looked at me disappeared.” “Did you…” She swallowed. “Did you manipulate the entire situation,

Teddy?” “I won’t say ‘manipulate’. Just helped things go a certain way.” Georgia shook her head, lips trembling. “You lied to everyone, didn’t you?” She pointed at him. “You hid it from Anthony that you knew where I was and you lied to my mother too.” “Georgia.” “Shut up!” she spat. “You told

my mother Anthony didn’t want her. Didn’t you?” she shouted. “That’s why she didn’t want him to know where we were. You made her think he abandoned her.” “I loved Elene so much, and I wanted to marry her.” He rocked, rubbing his knuckles. “She didn’t want anything to do with me after she met Anthony.” He snapped his fingers. “She

pushed me away like that.” “Good call,” she snarled. “Anthony stole my life.” He beat his chest. “He stole the woman and child I was supposed to have! The happiness I was supposed to have!” He sobbed with red eyes. “You should’ve been my daughter, Georgia. After I lost Elene, something died inside of me. I had no soul. I didn’t care about anything

anymore.” “I believed in you, Teddy.” She stood. “I defended you when Wanda, Kel, and even Osana said you couldn’t be trusted! Now I know that’s true.” “You don’t understand how hurt I was when I lost Elene.” “That’s no excuse for what you did.” She leaned over him. “You played with my life like it was a game of chess!

You manipulated everything and robbed me of the life I was supposed to have. We struggled, Teddy. You know how hard it was for my mother and I and where I ended up.” She wiped tears. “I was on the damn streets, Teddy! I had no idea I had a father who had millions of fuckin’ dollars and a place to lay my head!” “Georgia, I never wanted to hurt

you.” He closed his eyes. “I just didn’t think about how things would affect you. I was so hungry for revenge that I lost sight of everything else.” “You didn’t care about anyone but yourself.” She moved from the couch. “You stole my entire life, Teddy. Now my father is dead and I could’ve had all those years with him.” She exhaled, letting out a sound as if breath

came from deep in her soul. “I wanted my dad so much.” She blubbered in her hands. “That’s all I ever wanted and you took him from me! You took everything, and I’ll never forgive you for this.” Teddy swallowed the heartwrenching tirade. “Anthony didn’t deserve to be with you, Georgia. He’d gotten so many other things he didn’t deserve that I was determined he wasn’t

gonna get you and Elene too.” “That wasn’t your decision. Who are you to decide whether I need to know my father or not? You did this to hurt my mother too.” “No.” He waved his hand. “I didn’t blame Elene for anything.” “Bullshit.” She pointed at him. “All you do is focus on revenge. I’m supposed to believe you’d let her get

away with hurting you and not do anything about it?” She leaned back. “You figured if you couldn’t have her then you didn’t want her living it up with Anthony. I bet it made your day to see the pain she was in when you lied and made her think Anthony didn’t want her.” She rushed to him and slapped him. “Goddamn you, Teddy! You fucked up the lives of three people not even

including your own. How does that feel? Yeah, you get off on hurting people.” She looked him up and down. “You know what’s sad? What’s sad is that you robbed yourself of happiness just as much as you did us.” “You gotta see where I came from, Georgia.” He stood. “You don’t know the pain I’ve dealt with being ignored, growing up in Anthony’s

shadow.” “Teddy, you’re fifty-eight years old! How long are you gonna live in the past? Do you understand the years you’ve wasted hating Anthony? When are you gonna live your life?” “And you’re perfect, huh?” “No, I’m not.” She exhaled, glaring at him as if she’d smack him again. “But, I would never hurt people I

claim to care about in such a cold and heartless way.” She lifted her arms, balling fists. “Teddy, what you did is so twisted I can’t even fathom the reasoning behind it. You have to be a fucked up person to come up with such cruelty.” “I took your life.” Tears drowned his cheeks. “You can wipe those crocodile tears.”

“I hate what I did, Georgia!” He sniffled. “I do, but I can’t change it. That’s why I did my best to give you your life back. The one I stole. That’s why I brought you here where you belong.” She shook her head, scoffing. “You lied.” “I had to lie to you! Georgia, if you knew Anthony was really your father

you wouldn’t have gone through with our plan.” “Damn right!” “Before Elene died, I told her the truth.” He bit his damp lip. “I told her I’d lied and that I was sorry and was going to make it right. That was going to be my apology to her and to you, Georgia.” He batted through tears. “Yes, I’m a selfish bastard and I hate Anthony

but I loved your mother.” He grabbed her. “And in my heart you’re my daughter, Georgia.” He touched her cheek. “And you always have been.” She moved away from him as if his touch repulsed her. “Get this straight, Teddy. I don’t ever wanna see your ass again.” She got her purse. “From this point on you’re no one to me. Not an uncle, not a friend, only an enemy.”

Tears poured from his eyes. “Please.” He reached for her. “I love you, Georgia. Give me a chance to make it right.” “Can you give me all those years with Anthony that I missed? Can you take away the pain I felt because I thought my father had abandoned me?” She took a deep breath. “And you know what, Teddy? Even if you could do all of

that I would still hate you for the rest of my life.” “I am sorry, Georgia.” He shrugged, void of anything else to say. “I really am.” “You know what?” She pulled her purse strap on her shoulder. “Sometimes sorry isn’t enough.” She left.

CHAPTER FORTY-FIVE Ulysses rushed inside Osana’s office and shut the door. “Hey, Osana.” “What are you doing here?” She jumped from the chair. “Get out!” He lay against the door with his hands behind his back. “Aren’t you glad to see me?” She sensed him hiding

something. “I’m not playing with your dumb ass.” She picked up the receiver from her desk phone. “All I have to do is buzz security and he’ll throw your ass out.” His mouth rose in one corner. “That’s gonna be hard for him to do seeing how he isn’t moving.” “What did you do?” He walked toward her. “Osana

—” “Get out!” She pushed the button to alert security but no one answered. “I told you he’s occupied.” He continued toward her desk. “Stay away from me.” She grabbed the lamp. “I’ll beat your ass.” “I doubt it.” She shook the lamp. “I’m not playing with you!”

“And I’m not playing with you.” He held up a large, shiny butcher knife. “Oh, my…” She laid a shivering hand to her mouth. “What are you doing?” “I’m doing what I always do, bitch!” He grabbed her and slipped the knife under her chin. “I’m taking control.” “Please!” She tugged at his arm

around her waist. “Don’t hurt me.” “I won’t if you do what I say.” When he moved the knife toward her face, she saw blood on the blade. “Oh, Ulysses.” She sobbed. “What did you do? Did you hurt someone?” “I didn’t come here to fuckin’ chat.” He yanked her hair. “Get on the phone.” “What?”

“Get on the fuckin’ phone!” He pushed her to the desk, still holding her. “What are you doing, Ulysses?” “Get on the fuckin’ phone or I’m gonna give your face a makeover with this damn blade. I’m not playing with you.” “Okay.” Osana got the receiver with shaking hands and laid it to her ear. “Now call your momma and tell

her to come down here.” Sweat dripped from his face. “Do it.” Sniffling, Osana dialed the phone. “Stay cool.” He dragged the tip of the knife against her face. “I’ll gut you like a fish.” “Hello,” Wanda answered. “Momma?” Osana swallowed. “I’m…I’m working late at the office.

Can you come by?” “To Spears Corp.?” Osana glanced at the tip of the knife under her chin. “We need to talk.” “Give me the fuckin’ phone!” Ulysses grabbed it and turned on the speaker. “Hey, sweetie. It’s me.” “Ulysses?” Wanda shrieked. “What are you up to?” “It’s just like you to accuse me of

something right off.” He grimaced at Osana. “You’re gonna have to give me your final answer. Are you coming back to me or not?” “If you’ve laid one hand on Osana—” “Momma!” Osana struggled in his grasp. “Shut up!” He brought the knife to her eye. “You’re coming back to me,

Wanda. If you love your daughter.” “Please.” Wanda sounded as if she were sobbing. “Don’t hurt her. This is between us.” “I told you not to test me.” Ulysses panted, holding Osana tighter. “Come down here right now or Osana is dead.” He yanked her hair. “Momma!” Tears streamed down Osana’s face.

“Please don’t hurt her,” Wanda begged. “Please! I’ll do anything.” “We’ll be waiting.” Ulysses snickered. “Oh and Wanda, wear that perfume I’ve always liked.” He hung up. “Ulysses, you can’t do this.” Osana struggled as he pulled her behind the desk. “You won’t get away with what you’ve done.” He shoved her in the chair.

“How can you be like this?” She tugged on his shirt. “I loved you. Don’t you care about me at all?” “Yeah.” His expression remained blank. “Just not as much as I care about your mother.” “What are you gonna do when she comes down here?” “That depends on her.” “Please don’t hurt her.”

“What?” He gaped. “Are you actually pleading for your mother’s safety? Hell, I assumed you’d be standing on the sidelines with pom-poms cheering me on.” “Please, Ulysses.” She cried. “Think about Anthony! It would kill him if he knew you were doing this.” He sat on her desk. “I guess it’s a good thing he’s dead then, isn’t it?”

A tear dangled from her lips. “Please don’t hurt my mother.” He stuck his hand in the candy jar and grabbed a handful of jellybeans. “I’m not gonna hurt anyone unless I have to.”

CHAPTER FORTY-SIX Wanda ran into Osana’s office twenty minutes later. “Osana!” “Momma!” Osana rose from the chair, which Ulysses had moved from behind Osana’s desk. “Sit down, Osana.” Ulysses shoved her down by the shoulder. “Move again and you’ll be sorry.”

Wanda made eye contact with Osana and signaled to her purse. She has the gun. “Okay, Ulysses.” Wanda stood up straight, emoting confidence. “Let Osana go so we can talk.” “Oh, no.” He moved behind Osana’s chair and held the blade to her face. “She’s not going anywhere until I get what I want.”

“And what is that?” Wanda asked. “A trade? Her for me?” “You don’t understand how much I love you, do you?” He gripped Osana’s shoulder. “Wanda, I’ve loved you since I first moved into the estate. I wanted you all these years.” Wanda rolled her eyes as if she’d heard this story a million times. “Anthony and I took you in when you had

no one. We did everything we could to give you the life you deserved, but each time you made us regret helping you. Anthony kept wanting to help you, but I told him a long time ago to give up on you.” “Why are you saying this?” Ulysses rubbed the side of his head. “Such hateful words.” Wanda looked at her purse.

“You’re crazy, Ulysses.” “But I wasn’t crazy when you needed me, was I?” He waved the knife. “I wasn’t crazy when you let me in your bed, was I?” Osana clenched up. “I wasn’t crazy when you came to me that night.” He crept toward Wanda. “The first night when we made love. I wasn’t crazy then.”

“You were.” Wanda stepped back. “I just didn’t know it.” “You remember that night?” He tilted his head. “It was a few weeks after Anthony died and it was raining.” He closed his eyes. “I remember how the rain tapped on my bedroom window. I remember everything about that night. It was better than anything I’d ever dreamed.”

“That’s enough,” Wanda said. “No I want you to remember it. Better yet we’re gonna tell Osana about that night.” “Please…” Osana’s breath caught in her throat. “Making love with your mother was the best thing I’d ever experienced. It was like my body awoke from a deep sleep.”

“Don’t do this.” Osana sobbed. “It’s hard enough you guys were together.” “But I want you to understand, Osana.” He gripped her by the neck. Wanda rushed toward her. “Stay there.” Ulysses waved the knife toward Wanda. “You want me to come back to you, right?” she yelled. “Well I’m fuckin’

here, Ulysses! Let her go.” “I want her to know about that night.” “As if you haven’t embarrassed her and me enough when you showed that DVD to everyone?” “I guess few men have been lucky to experience sex with a mother and daughter.” “You’re sick.” Wanda scowled.

“And trust me I did a comparison.” He licked his lips. “Both of you are good but you Wanda, man.” He stood. “Osana, your momma is a tiger in bed. Oh.” He covered his mouth, grinning. “I guess you would know after seeing that DVD.” “Let her go!” Wanda shouted. “I’ll do whatever you want. Just let Osana leave. She has nothing to do with

this.” “I want you to finish the story.” He twirled the knife around in his hand. “Tell her about that night.” “I won’t.” “Do it.” Ulysses perched the blade under Osana’s chin. “Momma,” she shrieked with tears crowding her face. “Okay.” Wanda reached for

Ulysses. “Please don’t hurt her.” “Tell the story.” He panted. “I know you remember and can’t get it off your mind any more than I can.” “I was in a haze after Anthony died.” Wanda swallowed. “Osana, you’d closed yourself off so we weren’t there for each other. Meanwhile I had to hold it together to get things done, but I was dying inside. Ulysses and I became

closer. He was always there for me when I needed him. That’s what I missed by not having Anthony anymore, being protected and secure.” “Ulysses made you feel secure?” Osana whispered. “Yes. We started getting closer.” Ulysses stared at her. “Go on.” “You took me out of the pain, and I was no longer grieving but living

again. You remind me so much of Anthony.” Ulysses smiled. Wanda brought her gaze to Osana. “One night I went to his place to talk, but the emotions were so powerful they took over.” She touched her chest. “We kissed and—” “Who kissed who first?” Ulysses raised an eyebrow. “You don’t wanna

skip that part.” “I kissed him first.” Wanda closed her eyes. Osana looked away, shaking her head. “It felt right to do it,” Wanda continued. “The next thing I know we’re making love in his bed.” “Stop.” Osana grew nauseated. “You might as well kill me if you’re

gonna make me listen to this.” “And what did you tell me while we were making love, Wanda?” Ulysses asked. “Tell her.” “I said…” Her voice shook. “I said it made me forget about Anthony.” “You said that?” Osana gasped. “I didn’t mean it.” Wanda sobbed. “I loved Anthony with all my heart. If I hadn’t been grieving it never

would’ve happened.” “Stop using your grief as an excuse,” Ulysses said. “You wanted me as much as I wanted you. If it was because of grief then it wouldn’t have turned into an affair.” “He’s right,” Osana whispered, heartbroken. “How you could look at Ulysses that way is shocking.” “I was dead inside,” Wanda

whispered. “No one can understand how lost I felt. How scary it was. I broke it off because it was killing me.” Ulysses squinted. “I’m responsible for what I did, but you weren’t innocent either,” Wanda told him. “You saw I was vulnerable and jumped at the chance to seduce me.” She inched closer to him. “You never loved me. I don’t think you know what love

is.” “I don’t love you?” He pulled a ring box from his pocket. “Oh my god.” Osana groaned. “If I don’t love you then why did I get this for you, huh?” He put the box on the desk. “Why, if I don’t love you?” Wanda picked it up, staring at it as if it were a foreign object. “I’ve wanted to give you that for

a while.” Ulysses wiped sweat off the side of his face. “Marry me, Wanda.” “You haven’t heard a word I’ve said.” Wanda scowled. “I’ll never come back to you, and I sure as hell won’t marry you!” She threw the box at him. “Pick up the ring and put it on.” “Fuck you!” Wanda kicked it across the floor. “It’s not happening, Ulysses.”

“You still won’t come back to me?” Wanda clenched her jaws. “No fuckin’ way.” “Then her blood is on your hands.” He snatched Osana from the chair and attempted to stab her. “Momma!” “Get away from her!” Wanda pulled him off Osana.

He whipped around and tried to slice Wanda in the face but she ducked. “Don’t!” Osana jumped on Ulysses’ back, knocking the knife from his hands. “Osana, move!” Wanda screamed. Ulysses knocked Wanda to the floor. “You bastard!” Still on his back,

Osana tugged at his ears and head to subdue him. “I’m sick of both of your asses!” He threw Osana to the carpet and snatched up the knife before Wanda reached it. “Stop, Ulysses!” She grabbed the gun from her purse. “Drop the knife and get away from her.” “You’re not gonna shoot me.” He

headed toward Osana with the knife. “I said drop it!” Wanda held the gun with both hands. “I swear to god if you make another step it’ll be your last one.” “Please put it down, Ulysses.” Osana slid backwards on the carpet. “It’s over now. Can’t you see that? It’s over.” “It’s not over until I say it’s

over!” He lunged at Osana. Wanda shot. “Ah!” He dropped the knife, stumbling back. “Oh, god!” Osana screamed. “Oh!” Ulysses gripped his bleeding side. “Wanda?” He raised his bloody hand then tumbled to the floor. “Momma!” Osana ran to her

mother. “It’s okay, baby.” Wanda wrapped her arms around her. “Everything’s okay now.”

CHAPTER FORTY-SEVEN An hour later, Osana snuggled against her mother in the hallway when the men carried Ulysses out of the office in a body bag. “Okay.” The gray-haired detective looked over his report. “Is there anything else you wanna tell me?” Wanda shook her head.

“And you sure neither of you don’t want to go to the hospital?” The detective gestured to them with his pen. “Not hurt in any way?” Osana exhaled. “I wanna forget everything about tonight.” “I don’t think that’s happening soon.” Wanda kissed her forehead. “Do you need a ride home?” the officer asked them.

“No.” Osana put her arm around Wanda’s back. “You believe that this was self-defense, right?” “No doubt in my mind, but we’ll need to do a thorough investigation still,” the detective said. “Mrs. Spears you should’ve come to the police the moment he started harassing you so we could’ve helped.” “I’ve learned my lesson,” she

said. “I’ll never keep secrets again.” “Can we go home?” Osana asked. “I guess we’re done for now.” The detective slipped his pen in his pocket. “But I’ll call if I need to clear anything else up.” He joined the other officers in Osana’s office. “Come here.” Wanda gave Osana a tight hug. “Are you really okay?”

“You saved my life. I don’t know how to thank—” “Girl, you better not finish that sentence.” Wanda stroked her hair. “I’m your mother.” “I’m sorry for the time we wasted being stubborn and angry.” “You’re not the one who should apologize. I’m sorry for not being the mother you needed and deserved. I

couldn’t love anyone more than I love you.” Wanda kissed her forehead. “And from now on I’m gonna make sure you know it.” “Momma.” Osana plunged her head into Wanda’s warm chest and cried. “That’s all I’ve ever wanted.” “Let’s start over. Ready to leave all the anger and crap behind?” Osana took her hand. “I’ve been

ready.” They started down the hall. “Are you coming home?” Osana smiled. “If you’ll have me.” “What about Shad?” “That’s over with.” Wanda gaped. “It is?” “There’s only one relationship I need right now and that’s one with you.”

Osana put her arm around Wanda’s waist. “From now on it’s all about you and me.” **** Georgia stiffened up when Kel walked toward the pool. “Wanda and Osana on their way home?” he asked. “She said they’re going to talk first.” She sat by the edge of the pool

with her legs in the water. “They want to be alone and get themselves together. Can you imagine how scared they were?” “I can’t believe Ulysses is dead.” Kel sat beside her, staring into the water. “I wasn’t his biggest fan, but it’s gonna be weird not seeing him again. Thank god he didn’t hurt either of them though.”

“This has been one strange night.” Georgia looked toward the blinding moonlight. “Reminds me of the night I came.” “How does it feel?” He put his hand in the water. “Being Anthony’s daughter?” “I’m so shocked about that and Ulysses I don’t know what to think.” “I’m so sorry for what I did,

Georgia.” He scrunched up his face. “I’ll never go behind your back again. If it takes the rest of my life I’ll make it up to you.” He rubbed her thigh. “You’re the most important thing to me.” “When Osana told me I was Anthony’s daughter I was packing.” She wiggled her feet in the soothing water. “Doing what I always do…run away. But, my heart won’t let me leave Wanda,

this place, or you.” She scooted closer to him. “It won’t let me run anymore.” “Fate brought you here because we belong together.” He kissed her. “I won’t lose you again.” “I’ve always loved you, Kel.” She laid her head on his shoulder. “Even when I was with Omar.” “Where do we go from here?” He caressed her hand, making her tingle

all over. “We promise to stay together.” She smiled, putting her arms around him. “Always.” THE END

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