In Fear's Embrace (The Hunters' Legacy - Book 2)

Chapter 6

New York, August 2005

            It had been more than a quarter since he stood on the threshold of her room. He wanted to check if everything’s okay. He quietly hoped that she had already woken up, that he would be able to talk to her. But though it had been more then forty-eight hours since Jay appeared at his house, she was still asleep. He saw sadness and fatigue in her eyes. Therefore, despite the irresistible desire to ask her everything, he led her to a prepared room and let her rest. He was, however, worried by her condition.

            He could not take his eyes off her. She was unusually beautiful with a storm of dark blond hair scattered on the pillow, sun-burnt face and shadows cast on the cheeks by long thick eyelashes. ‘She’s so similar to her mother!’ He thought for the hundredth time and felt a prick in his heart again. He could not help it but the very thought of his deceased wife caused him painful memories. And now he was looking at their only daughter and knew that she too had taken the same path as Isabo.

            He backed out and closed the door quietly. He went down to the living room, poured himself some whiskey and sat down in his favorite armchair. Through the window he watched as storm clouds gathered in the sky. The weather matched his mood. It was true that he was extremely pleased with Jay’s arrival, but all the memories darkened his thoughts. In addition, the pain in the eyes of the beloved child. It shocked him more than he was willing to admit. Even in front of himself. Now, however, he could only wait, knowing that Jay had a difficult character and it will not be easy to get her to confess.

            With some affection he immersed himself into memories. His father founded a real estate agency in the 1950s. It had to be admitted that he had a nose for it, he quickly developed business and made a fortune. John actually grew up in his father’s office. So it was not surprise that he took over the family business. But he did not stop at that point, he wanted to go further. That was why John himself became an agent and because his name was well known and had its reputation, he had not much problems finding clients among famous people. JT Agency has grown rapidly and John not only multiplied his wealth, but also strengthened his position and earned respect.

            It seemed that he has everything, but he felt a certain hunger. He remembered his sudden decision to go on a short vacation to Montana, to his friend. He met Brad Weakfield while they were still students and they have been good friends ever since. He could not understand why such a reasonable guy decided to settle in some damn hole, but when he talked to his friend on the phone he immediately guessed that behind all this madness was a woman. So he went to Bradley’s wedding, and he was completely lost.

            Just one look into the beautiful eyes of an unusual turquoise color was enough for him to know that he cannot live without this beautiful creature. Isabo was delightful like a dream. She seemed to be fragile and delicate, but in fact she was strong and relentless. Wayward and stubborn. Even though she was only eighteen, she was able to get her way. Therefore, ten years older John moved to Purple Creek and managed his business from there, leaving only when it was necessary.

            She enslaved him. She cast a spell on him that he could not break free from. And he did not want to. He was happy with her. They got married as soon as she came of age, and then their children were born one after another. He found his place and strongly believed that he would stay there forever. But she decided to take off this wonderful spell. She released him, although he did not ask for it. She opened his eyes, though he preferred to remain blind. That was why he left.

            He left and regretted it every next day. He tried to come back. Fix everything. Start from the beginning. But he always found a reason to delay the final decision. And then it was too late and he could not ask her for a second chance. He did not receive forgiveness for his doubts and bitter words she heard from him. Even his children did not want to have anything to do with him. That was the reason why he decided to treat Jay’s appearance as his second chance.

            This time he will not fail. He will not turn around. He will not leave.

***

            She had been at her father’s place for a week. The first three days she was sleeping in a stone sleep. As soon as she left Monterey, something forced her to go ahead. It took her almost two weeks, she hardly slept at all and the anxiety did not leave her even for a moment. But when she crossed the threshold of her father’s house she felt relief. She knew she was safe. She washed away all the dust and numbness, then exhausted, fell on the bed and slept like a child. Only one thing worried her now.

            Her father did not ask any questions.

            He was caring. He made sure that she was comfortable and that she felt good in his home. However, he did not ask why she turned to him for help. Jay saw curiosity devouring him. But he held it in check. She appreciated that. But at the same time it was pissing her off.

            Habits are not so easy to get rid of, which is why she quickly returned to her old routine. It was barely seven and Jay already cleared her morning jogging, gym and shower. The whole house was still asleep. Even Mr. O’Malley, who got up soonest. The good old man was majordomo and managed the whole house. Jay decided to spare the cook from some of her duties and made coffee. Although O’Malley will look at her with rebuke, Mrs. Morgan will certainly appreciate this little help. The plump Irish was extremely open and friendly to the whole world.

-          Good morning, Miss Jaysabel. – The butler’s official tone made her smile.

-          Good morning Mr. O’Malley. – She answered cheerfully. – We have a beautiful day today.

-          Indeed Miss. – He maintained an artificial tone. – It is going to be a hot day.

-          But for now it’s nice and fresh! – The rigid conversation amused her.

-          You left alone Miss?! – He asked indignantly.

-          I did. – She was laughing in spirit. – I woke up before four. I like to run at down.

-          You cannot do that! It is not right or a lady from good house to wander alone at night! – Jay watched his neck vein pulsate.

-          I can defend myself! – She answered pugnaciously, which put him in even more consternation.

            But the goblet was overfilled with the coffee she was just pouring into her cup.

-          Miss Jaysabel! This is Mr. Morgan’s duty!

-          I’m not handicapped and I can make coffee by myself! – She scolded him.

-          Resourceful girl! – Mrs. Morgan entered her kingdom briskly. – Good morning! – She greeted cheerfully. – I’ll prepare you a delicious breakfast in a minute, honey! – She said to Jay. – Sit here and tell me how you like it with us, my child.

-          Mrs. Morgan! – O’Malley was outraged at the cook’s confidentiality.

-          Mr. O’Malley! – Jay cut in. – I’m really not used to saloons! Besides, I think that the kitchen it the heart of the house.

-          You’re right! – John Tyler entered the kitchen fresh and rested. And, what surprised Jay the most, dressed in a washed out jeans and white polo T-s**t.

            ‘Where’s the indispensable double-breasted suit, white shirt and tie?’ Jay thought.

-          You look different today, dad. – She said.

-          It’s Sunday Jay! – He pointed out with laugh. – Even I have a day off from time to time. – He winked at her. – What goodies are for breakfast, Mrs. Morgan?

-          Let’s go crazy! - She said happily. – I’ll make pancakes! Sit down O’Malley! It’ll be enough for you too! – She added maliciously but with a swarthy smile.

***

            She did not expect such a turn of events, although the pleasant atmosphere at breakfast brought her a genuine joy. With relief she noticed that the first ice with the butler had been broken, and that faint thread of agreement with her father began to gain strength. She did not have to worry about Mrs. Morgan – the friendly woman immediately gave Jay sympathy, reciprocally, of course. The fact that John Tyler rarely took a break from work undoubtedly brought her additional pluses.

            Another surprise for her was invitation for a ride. When she entered the huge garage, it took her breath away. Her father was a real collector. Shiny limousines mixed in with sports toys, at the sight of which many a guy would drool.

-          Which one do you want to ride? – He asked directly.

-          Are you kidding me? – She looked at him a bit confused.

-          You’ve travelled the whole country so you probably can drive. – He stated.

-          Yes, but… - She felt her fingers itching. – It’s not the same! My jeep was used and if I smashed it there would be nothing to cry for!

-          Those are also used. – He pointed out. – Quite regularly.

-          By the way! Where’s my car?

-          As you noticed, it was already quite old. – With a gesture of his hand he pointed to the cars in the garage. – Pick one for yourself.

-          What? – He surprised her again.

-          Of course they all are at your disposal, but one will be only yours.

-          I don’t want presents, dad! – She felt offended. – That’s not why I came here for.

-          I know! – He assured her. – I don’t want to buy your favor. But I rather don’t have the opportunity to please my children. – He explained.

-          But you set up trust funds, each of us has an account at his disposal, and you sent money to Sean and Maria!

-          You’re overestimated me. Your mother’s fortune is also substantial and still pays off. You can only live on interest. – He sighed. – It’s not about money, Jay. I just want to bring you some joy.

-          Okay! – She knew that she would please her father by accepting the gift. – It might surprise you, but I like that dark blue Cherokee.

-          It doesn’t surprise me at all! – He laughed. – You like practical cars.

-          Yeah, I really do. – Jay admitted. – But for today’s ride I choose red Ferrari. – She pulled him towards the shiny car. – I think my female vanity speaks up! – She chuckled.

-          You look good with it. – He handed her the keys and jumped slightly into the passenger seat. – Where will we go? – He pulled her ear lightly as he did when she was a child.

-          Somewhere where we won’t have to worry about the speed limits? – She suggested.

-          Sounds dangerous. – He said in a mentoring tone. – My blood! – He added with a sly smile.

-          Who would have thought? – She laughed. – John Steven Tyler, respected businessman, a shark in the real estate world, has a soft spot for breaking the Highway Code.

-          Believe it or not, but I was young once. – He chuckled. – I used to take part in illegal races when I was at college. – He confessed.

-          No way! You?! Such a well-mannered boy?! – She teased him.

-          Yes! Together with Brad we were undefeated! – He bragged himself.

-          Bradley Weakfield? – She asked surprised.

-          The same! – He smirked. – Those were the days! – He pondered.

            Jay could imagine these crazy escapades. She had heard a lot about Bryan’s father school years. She had no trouble imagining what tricks they were paying together with John. Her brothers were like their father. Together with Bryan they made many stupid things.

            Her smile faded away and eyes felt wet. She missed him so much. She could not just forget about him. Throw him out of her thought and heart. It was just impossible. But she did not want to worry her father as well, so she just pushed the thoughts about Bryan Weakfield away.