Love Deserved, page 17
The weight of his arms around my waist gave me a sense of security. I found my phone lying inside my purse, just under the coffee table. Guess it was time for my weekly video call with Andi. Tonight would be about more than business. Hopefully, she would have an answer for us about who had sent the package.
The phone rang twice before her face appeared on my screen. We smiled at each other and waved. It was good to see her. I missed her like crazy.
“Hey, girl. How are you?” Andi’s voice sounded as chipper as ever.
“We’re doing okay. How are things there?”
Andi took her phone and scanned the arena from the bar. It looked like every other day. Nothing had changed, and everything appeared to be running smoothly.
Bentley came into view a second later. I moved my head enough that Ayden could wave to him. Andi didn’t give them long before she flipped the phone around to face her. Then she leaned back against Bentley so they mirrored Ayden and me.
“You’ll be happy to hear there are no issues this week. Your father is back in action. We’re buzzing around this place like you and I do. We’ve enjoyed catching up.”
“That's wonderful news. Is Dad around?”
Andi turned to search for him. After a moment, she waved at someone. “Come here, Shane.”
It wasn’t long before my dad squeezed in next to Andi and Bentley. “Hello, princess. How are you?”
“Physically, I’m fine. I’ve had no issues with my pregnancy, and I feel fine.”
“And emotionally?” My father narrowed his gaze as though he were challenging me to tell the truth.
“Until today, I’ve been great.” I peered at Ayden as he rubbed my shoulder and nodded. “We were out shopping earlier when I had this inkling that someone was following us. I shrugged it off to an incident we had at the mall.”
“What incident?” Andi and my father asked the same question. Both wore identical frowns.
“Breaking Silence has an enormous fan base, and those fans are eager to meet them. Had we stayed, they would have surrounded us.”
“Not a wise choice without security, so I understand your panic.” My dad rubbed his chin. “Do you think one of these girls followed you to the cabin?”
“No,” Ayden chimed in. “I received a package today. It wasn’t from my family or anyone else I know.”
My dad glanced at Bentley and Andi. All three were frowning. Finally, my father asked, “What was it?”
“A voice recording of Izzy confessing to someone that she planned to seduce me and get pregnant just to destroy her sister. There’s more, but that’s the gist of it.”
Andi and Bentley shook their heads as my dad pinched the bridge of his nose. None had anything to say. The news weighed on them like it did on Ayden and me. It was a truth that needed to be known. I wasn’t sure if we could admit the recording as evidence in court. What I needed was for this mysterious person to step forward and help me get justice.
“That is weird, guys,” Andi replied. Concern covered her face as she stared at us. “No one’s given me anything to mail to you, except Bentley. I mailed that package this morning.”
I released the breath I’d been holding. “They sent the package from a location here in Flagstaff, according to the postage. I just don’t understand how someone could know we’re here.”
It was a general statement, but my dad looked worried. “You have the code to the safe if you need to get inside it. I wish you could come home, but now isn’t the right time.”
His words made my chest tighten. “Why? What’s wrong, Dad?”
My father scanned the bar before he answered. “Your sister is seeing a psychiatrist that was highly recommended to me. His name is Dr. Journey, and he has Izzy on medication.”
“It’s about time.”
I heard Ayden mumble the words, but didn’t acknowledge them. Instead, I asked, “How is she?”
Dad shrugged. “Honestly, I’m not sure. Dr. Journey thinks there’s a slight improvement, but he said it’s too soon to tell. He’s not sure what her condition is yet, which is the reason he’s trying her on this medication.”
“And what do you think?” As I waited for an answer, Ayden clasped my hand and held it. He was just as anxious as I was to hear my dad’s thoughts.
“She appears to be better, but she’s spending a lot of time alone. She told me she was soul-searching.”
“Or plotting something,” I grumbled. My dad grimaced at my words.
“I’m trying to stay positive, but you’re right. Dr. Journey said she’s in a major depressive state.”
“Will you call me if anything changes?”
“Of course I will,” Dad assured me. “And you guys call me if there are any problems there. Don’t forget to set the security system at night.”
“We won’t.”
“Okay, princess. We have to go. Andi and I are meeting with a couple of our scouts in a few minutes to discuss some bands they’ve found.”
“We’ll talk to you guys next week. Bye.”
Everyone said goodbye in unison, then I tossed my phone between my legs and gazed at Ayden. “Well, that was an interesting call.”
“Tell me about it. Are you buying that spill about Izzy soul-searching?”
“I don’t know.” I massaged my temples and tried to think from a rational point of view. “Part of me hopes Izzy will change someday and be a decent person. I want to believe it’s happening. Still, I question the validity of her story.”
Ayden rubbed my shoulders as he glanced at the fireplace. “I don’t believe her. She knows people are watching her right now. Why wouldn’t she act remorseful? Hell, we just listened to a recording of her confessing what she planned to do. She’s twisted, Mia.”
“I know she is. Still, I can’t help but wonder if her feelings about the baby changed after she found out she was pregnant. You saw how devastated she was. Then she finds out I’m pregnant. If she’s going insane, I can’t help but feel partially responsible.”
As my guilt consumed me, Ayden tipped my chin until I met his eyes again. “Don't allow her to do this. What you’re thinking right now is exactly what Izzy wants. We can’t be responsible for your sister’s happiness.”
“I know. I guess I try to find the good in everyone. How can I share a bloodline with someone so cruel? My dad isn’t like that. Neither were my grandparents. She inherited that trait from her mother.”
He stroked my arm, attempting to soothe me. “Mia, for all we know, Izzy is faking everything. I’m questioning if she’s even taking her medicine. Is anyone watching her?”
“You heard everything I did. As far as I know, no one is verifying it.”
I thought about his question. My father only mentioned that Izzy’s physician prescribed medication. He didn’t say who was dispensing it. If she was doing it herself, we wouldn’t know if she had taken anything.
It was time to get verification. I would text my father later and ask if he’d witnessed her taking her medicine. If not, I had to convince him to find out. Everyone’s safety depended on it.
Chapter 18
~Ayden~
The morning light beamed through the window, giving the room a warm, hazy glow. My eyes had opened long before the sun began its ascent into the sky. After staying awake late last night, I didn’t think I would start my morning this early. Then again, it was Christmas. I had a reason to wake up early this year.
Our time at the cabin was flying by. Mia and I didn’t have a set date on when we would return to Music Haven, but while we were here, I wanted to enjoy every second, especially today. It’s why I stayed up late putting the final touches on what I hoped would be Mia’s most memorable Christmas.
I stared at her for the longest time, taking in her features. Her full lips parted slightly as soft breaths escaped. Long lashes touched the skin under her eyes, which remained closed. Her dark hair splayed over the pillow, contrasting perfectly with the white flannel sheets.
My chest rose as I inhaled.
Mia didn’t know how many times I’d woken before her or fallen asleep after she did. In those moments, I stared at her, just like now. I couldn’t help it. She amazed me.
The longer I admired her, the harder it was to believe she was mine. I never thought I could love anyone as much as I loved her. This time last year, I couldn’t fathom being in a relationship. Soon, I would become a husband and a father. My life had changed completely, and it was all because of Mia.
Today, I hoped to prove to her how much she meant to me.
Leaning closer, I lowered my head until my lips pressed to hers. She stretched her arms up and wrapped them around my neck. Her body curled toward me, making mine ache.
I loved the idea of making love to her right now, but I knew we couldn’t. We had a full day planned, and I wanted to get started.
Easing back, I smiled. “Good morning, beautiful.”
“Good morning.” She winked at me, then glanced at the clock. “You’re awake early.”
“It’s Christmas.” I teased her cheek with my fingertips. “Merry Christmas, Mia.”
“Merry Christmas, Ayden.” Her warm hug and tender kisses led us right back to where we started. I wanted to slip off her panties, slide between her legs, and drive my cock inside her. Now wasn’t the time. It would happen. I was damn sure it would, but not until later.
I couldn’t believe I was talking myself out of having sex.
I pressed my head to hers. “Are you ready to open your presents?”
“Yes. After a quick trip to the bathroom.” She patted her belly. “My bladder is being held hostage by this one.”
I nodded. “You head to the bathroom and I’ll go grab a coffee. Do you want some peppermint tea?”
“Yes, please.” As she climbed out of bed, I walked to the bathroom door and grabbed her robe from the hook. She smiled at me as I held it up and helped her put it on. “I’ll meet you downstairs in a few minutes.”
Before she could step away, I swept my lips up her neck, kissing the spot under her ear. It wasn’t until I heard her breath hitch that I whispered, “I’ll be waiting.”
My ability to keep my wits about me was a miracle. Twice, I wanted to forget my plans and make love to Mia all morning. I couldn’t. Today was about Mia.
I rushed downstairs to the kitchen as quietly as I could. If I was too loud, I would ruin half the surprise. Once the kettle was on the stove and the coffee pot began brewing, I found the box of tea and selected a bag. Just as I grabbed two cups, the floor above me creaked. A moment later, my phone vibrated next to the coffee pot. When I reached for it and read Bentley’s message, I chuckled. He was so impatient.
How long should we wait?
Mia was descending the stairs when I typed my reply.
About twenty minutes. I’ll let you know, so be ready.
After he sent me a thumbs-up, I shut off my phone and shoved it into the pocket of my pajamas. Mia came into the kitchen a second later. Thankfully, she didn’t know I was texting Bentley.
“Here you go.” I handed her the cup of tea, then grabbed my coffee. “Let’s head to the den.”
Leading the way, I told myself to remain calm and act normal when every nerve in my body screamed in anticipation. Instead of reacting to my excitement, I set my cup on the coffee table and kneeled in front of the tree. Most of the items wrapped underneath it were for our family and friends, but Bentley had mailed me the items I ordered for Mia. They arrived the day after I received the strange package and the voice recording of Izzy.
Trying not to let the memory of my ex ruin the day, I forced the thoughts aside and focused on Mia. “Which gift do you want to open?”
She shook her head. “I don’t want to open mine first. I want you to open one.”
“Fine, but you kept your promise. Right? You didn’t spend a ton of money on my presents, did you?”
“I kept within the budget we agreed to.”
Mia had the means to buy me extravagant gifts, but at this point in my career, I couldn’t. Breaking Silence had royalties coming in now, but I was far from reaching her level of wealth. I even asked Mia if she wanted me to sign a prenuptial agreement, but she refused.
I hoped she liked the gifts I got her.
I grabbed the presents and brought them over to the sofa. Then I returned to mine. Two were small enough to carry. One I had to drag. The present’s weight worried me. Maybe Mia spent more than I had, and she was protecting my pride.
“Start with the big one.” She chuckled at me when I sat beside her. It took a few seconds to rip off the paper. As soon as I opened the box, I saw the black, hard-shell guitar case. I lifted it from the box and slid my hands over the shell. It wasn’t the fact she’d bought me a guitar case. She had it engraved with my name. Once I opened the case, I discovered more. The manufacturer cut the foam inside to the exact shape of my guitar instead of the generic cutout most cases had. That meant my guitar would fit perfectly.
“This is one badass case, Mia. Thank you.”
“I thought it would come in handy when you leave on your next tour.”
“It will.” I leaned in to kiss her and snuck a present inside her hand when I pulled away. “Your turn.”
Unwrapping the gift, she worked the package apart and slid the item out. “Oh! It’s so pretty.” She played with the cream-colored wristlet when she realized what it was. “It’s a wallet case for my phone. Thank you. I have wanted one for a while.”
“I remember you looking at them when we were in St. George. I hadn’t noticed you using one, so I thought it would make a suitable gift.”
“You’re so attentive.” She kissed my cheek. “Okay. It’s your turn again.”
She picked up the next present and handed it to me. I didn’t waste time opening this one. It was easier to unwrap than the guitar case, but what was inside had a bigger effect on my heart. It was a picture collage of my family. There were a couple of my parents, my grandmother, my aunt and uncle, and quite a few of Toni.
“Your mom helped me pick them out.” Mia’s smile lit up the room, and my heart. “Along with the picture frame comes an offer. I think it’s time you hung some pictures in your home at Music Haven, and I hope that you’ll accept my offer to move into my suite.”
“I’m practically living there now,” I teased her.
Mia giggled as she nodded. “I want it to be official. That means moving the rest of your belongings into our suite.”
Taking her hand in mine, I squeezed it gently. “Nothing would make me happier than to make it official.”
I couldn’t help but laugh a little. She didn’t know what was in store for her.
Releasing her hand, I gave her another gift and waited for her reaction. When she opened it and pulled out the paperwork, her brows knitted. I watched her eyes pass over the words and then fill with tears.
“Ayden… is this for real?”
“Yes. You’ve created so many stars, Mia, but you’ve never seen the star inside of you. It’s a beacon of light that gives people hope and peace.” I swiped away a tear falling down her cheek, then cupped her face. “You may not see the star you are, but I do. When you look into the sky, you’ll have a reminder. There’s a star in the sky named Amelia Shae after you.”
Her arms wrapped around my neck as she kissed me. “Thank you, Ayden. Thank you for helping me see a part of myself I didn’t know existed.”
“I will forever be the mirror you need to see the amazing person you are.”
She sobbed harder. I caressed her back, trying to calm her. “Don’t cry, baby. Please.”
After a few seconds, she drew a deep breath, wiped the tears from her eyes, and grabbed my other present. “Okay. Last one.”
Taking it from her, I fumbled with the tiny package. The paper ripped easily as I tore it from the small, rectangular box. When I opened it, what I saw inside made me tear up. Two perfectly engraved guitar picks lay nestled inside a bed of velvet. On one, the words were in blue lettering, and read World’s Best Dad. The other pick had gold lettering and read My Dad Is My Rock Star.
“Wow.” I choked on my words. “These are beautiful, Mia. They’re now my favorite picks. Thank you.”
“I’m glad you like them.” She accepted her last present from me and opened it right away. Once she realized it was a jewelry box, she peered at me. Was she wondering if I’d exceeded the spending limit?
Once she cracked open the box, she pressed her hand to her mouth. I knew her lips were trembling.
“Do you like it?”
She nodded. After ten seconds of silently staring, she removed the necklace from the box and held it in front of her. I pinched the heart-shaped locket between my fingers and opened it.
“This side is for me.” I pointed to the picture I’d placed on the left side. “The other is for our child. Now you’ll always have us close to your heart, even when I’m on tour.”
“It’s precious. I love it so much. Thank you, Ayden. This has been an amazing Christmas.”
“It’s not over yet.”
I glanced down at the last remaining present, then back at her. She was looking at it, too. “Did you get me something else?”
I brought the small package closer. “Yes, and no. This present is for you and me.”
“Really?” She gave me a suspicious look and touched the package. “Will you help me open it since it’s our gift?”
I slid my finger under the tape, loosening it for Mia, who then pulled it away. The instant she saw the box, her brows knitted.
I saw the confusion in her eyes when she glanced at me. All I did was smile and say, “Open it with me.”
She nodded at me and focused on the box. Once the top opened, the light above us caught the gold and platinum, making them shine. Mia’s mouth fell open as her breath hitched. I waited to see if she would look at me. All she did was shake her head.
“Is this our…?” Tears filled her eyes again.
“Yes, Mia. These are our wedding rings. I had them specially made for us.”
She pinched the one made for her between her fingers and examined it. “They’re beautiful.”
