Indecent Proposal (Book 5 of the Forbidden Series)

9

Ronny spent the next week with a contractor about remodelling his exercise room to resemble a bedroom once more. He had the mirrors removed and the walls plastered and painted. He hired help to move his things from the two rooms upstairs to the lower levels and rearrange everything to accommodate his new arraignments.

Vi stayed on in the house occasionally going home to her apartment during the day to change her clothes. She needed more than evening gowns in his home Ronny thought. Then she would have no excuse to leave him during the day. He would have to buy her a full wardrobe at some point.

The rooms were finished by the weekend, and the new furniture had been delivered and assembled. He left Vi to oversee the preparation of the two rooms while he went out to do some business with Larry. He needed to sign some budget approvals and approve some expense reports and inventory purchases.

Ronny was heading home when the town car drove by the cemetery. Ronny stared out the window at the rows of tombstones and trees passing by. A lonely tug pulled at his heart. “Felix,” he called to the driver, “let’s take a detour through the graveyard. I want to pay my respects to a friend.”

“Yes, Sir.” The driver turned into the cemetery knowing where to go. They grew closer to the grave when Ronny noticed another car. They pulled up along the other car, and he got out surprised to see that David’s grave had another unexpected visitor.

The breeze tossed his pale blond hair. His head was hung in mourning, and he held a bottle of rum in his hand. Ronny watched the other man take a sip and then in sadness pour some rum over the grave. Ronny smiled, it had been years, but he knew this man anywhere. Ronny walked up and stood by his old friend’s side. “You’re late.” He smiled, happy to see Eric once more. “The funeral was weeks ago.”

Eric sighed and took a long sip from his rum bottle and offered it to Ronny. “I know.” He finally said. “I couldn’t face everyone. Not after everything that happened.”

Ronny accepted the bottle and took a drink. “I never actually thought you would come.”

“Regardless of what happened, he was my friend too for over fifty-five years.” Eric took a breath trying to hide his pain. “I only wish we could have made peace before… all this.”

Ronny handed the bottle back. “It’s good to see you, man.” He looked around taking in the fact that his old friend had come solo. “Is Pam back at the hotel?” He asked assuming his wife still harboured ill will toward David for his part in her son’s death.

Again, Eric’s expression went sombre and Ronny knew Pam was not at any hotel. “Pam left me,” Eric confessed lifting the bottle to his lips. “Two years back.”

His confession surprised Ronny. Pam and Eric had always been close, so in love, so steadfast. He would have never, after forty years, expected them to split up. “Why? You two were always so in love.”

“Love was never the problem,” Eric said. “After Jeff died we grew apart. We grieved differently. Things just sort of fell apart.”

“I’m sorry.”

“I’m dealing. How’s Kat doing?” Eric asked wondering how David’s bride was coping.

“Not so well I hear. Locked herself away and won't come out of her home. Do you want to go see her?”

Eric shook his head. “No, I couldn’t face her, after all, that’s happened. It’s better if we don’t open that can of worms.” He was probably right.

“You should come by my place at lease have some drinks, maybe some dinner. You can meet Vi.” Ronny offered.

“Vi?” Eric repeated with a sly smile. “You have a girl?”

“I frequently have a girl.” Ronny pointed out.

“Not one you want to introduce to friends,” Eric said.

“Well, she is staying with me for a while.”

Eric grinned. “Well then if you’re doing introductions I’m certainly interested in meeting her.” He said as they walked back to their cars. “I have some things to get done, but maybe I’ll come by tomorrow night. I’ll bring the wine.” Eric offered.

“Alright, but I got to warn you it will be a full house.” He said as they reached the cars.

“No problem the more, the merrier.”

Ronny watched as his old friend got into his car and drove off. He smiled and looked back at David’s grave. He might have lost one friend, but he regained another. Things were finally starting to look up.

***

Vi had just finished making the beds when she saw Ronny’s town car pull up out front. She finished tucking in the covers and headed downstairs to greet him as he came through the front door. He was carrying many bags along with Felix’s help. “What on earth is all of this?” She asked looking at the many bags he placed on the floor.

Ronny smiled and placed his hands on her shoulders he kissed her hello. “Gifts darling.”

“Gifts?” She said glancing back at the bags. “For who?”

“For you of course.” He said. “Since you will be spending so much time here I felt you needed some more clothes to wear besides those evening gowns. So, I picked up a few things.”

She looked at the number of bags. “Did you buy the whole store?” She teased.

“Every beautiful woman needs a wide selection.” He grinned.

He was spoiling her. “I can’t accept all this.”

“Yes, you can.” He said. “Now help me take this upstairs. You can change into something incredible and then we can go and pick up your children.”

Ronny tipped Felix and sent him on his way. Vi was confused why was he sending the driver away if they were just about to go out again? “Won't we need him right away?” She asked picking up a few bags and helping him carry them up to the bedroom.

“I have another car coming.” He placed the bags on the bed and began to remove the clothes. They were beautiful she began to get excited, taking an unbelievable red dress with a short skirt and lace-up bodice. It was like something straight off the runway. She really shouldn’t accept all his gifts, but she remembered what he had told her when she protested the gowns and decided it was best to accept. Besides she wanted the clothes. “You should wear that dress.” He suggested. “That’s one of those dresses that are so perfect for torturing exes. Your ex’s eyes will pop from his head.” He grinned.

Vi turned to watch as he hung her new clothes in his closet. “Is that why you bought it?” She asked.

“I thought you might enjoy a little well-earned vengeance. Living well is the best revenge after all. I figured we would show up in a limo with you looking so very good with a famous billionaire on your arm. His new woman will be green with envy, and your ex will be furious that you are doing so much better without him. Believe me; this will drive him nuts.”

Vi had to admit she liked the idea of annoying Darcy. “Give me ten minutes to change.” She smiled. It didn’t take her long to change into the red dress he had bought her. She laced the bodice uptight and loved the way it accented her attributes. She had never dressed like this with Darcy. She could have never afforded a dress like this, nor would he have ever spent that sort of money on her. She had always been more of a jeans and t-shirt sort.

Vi let down her hair and pulled on the high heel boots that he bought to go with the dress. For a man, he had a remarkable eye for women’s fashion. She was all ready to go when she turned around and saw Ronny emerge from his closet. She paused in awe at the sight she saw. The usual suave, debonair man she had come to know had been replaced by the sexy, mischievous rockstar she had grown up idolizing. He had dressed in his old touring close. Leathered pants and dark fitted shirt. He placed a pair of dark glasses on and flashed her a sinful smile. “Ready darling?”

“You look amazing?” She breathed.

“Thank you.” He said opening another small bag he had placed on the bed. Vi watched him wondering what he was doing. He removed a flat blue velvet box and came to stand beside her. “I have one more thing for this evening.” He said opening the box to reveal a gold necklace and matching pair of earrings.

“Oh my.” It was breathtaking. “Now this I can’t accept.” She said refusing the gift. The jewelry must have cost a small fortune.

“Of course, you can,” Ronny said taking the necklace from the box and placing it around her neck. The delicate gold draped so elegantly her fingertips slid over it as she felt it lay against her skin. He then took the earrings out of the box and with steady hands helped her with both. He then turned her around to view herself in the mirror. “Magnificent.”

“It is.” She agreed.

“I was talking about you.” He said softly placing a kiss to her temple causing her to blush. The doorbell rang alerting them to the arrival of the limo. “I think it is time we go. We will pick up the children and then take them out for dinner. I’ve booked a reservation.”

Vi followed Ronny out to the limo waiting out front. She could not help but feel a little on edge at seeing her children again for the first time in six months. She had no idea what lies her husband had been telling them and how they would react to seeing her. Or more importantly how they would react to meeting Ronny. As much as she seemed to worry, Ronny appeared relaxed and confident lounging in his seat. Did nothing ever frazzle this man? He didn’t seem uncomfortable at all to be meeting her children.

They finally pulled up in front of the home that had once been her own. Vi stared out at the two-story home while the driver came around to open the door. Ronny got out and held out his hand for her. Taking his hand Vi stepped from the limo and took a deep, steadying breath trying to steel her nerves. “Do you want me to come inside with you?” He asked.

“No.” She answered. She had to learn to deal with Darcy. Ronny would not be around forever. “I can do this.”

“I’ll wait right here.” He said leaning casually against the limo. “Just call if you need me.”

Vi nodded and walked up the walkway to the front door. She rang the doorbell and waited. The door opened, and Vi came face to face with Sissy who stared past her with surprise. “Is that a limo?”

Vi smirked with satisfaction and pushed her way inside. “Are my children ready?” She demanded, coming through the door.

“Mom!” She heard the collective scream of Brea and Parker as they both came rushing down the stairs and hugged her tight. Brea had grown almost three inches, and her hair had gotten so long. Like her sister Parker, she was a beautiful blonde with long curly locks and a slender form. At fourteen she was starting to come into her womanly figure.

“Mom?” She heard Davis’ voice coming from the family room as he came out into the hall. He looked very much like his father with his dark hair and dark eyes. He smiled when he saw her and threw his arms around his mother and his sisters. “I missed you so much.”

“Mom!” Briar cried as she came running out of the kitchen with a cell phone in hand her dark hair bouncing on her shoulders. “You’re back.” She joined in the hugging and Vi tried so hard not to cry. She was so happy to see her children once more and grateful to hold them all.

“I missed you all so much. Do you all have your bags ready to go?” She asked sending them to get their things. “Be quick about it our ride is waiting.”

“Is it true do we get to spend two weeks with you?” Parker asked excitedly.

“Yes.” She answered happily.

“How did you convince Daddy to let you?” Asked Brea.

“The courts forced him,” Davis answered cynically. “Mom finally got a good lawyer.”

“Go get your things.” She instructed sending her two younger ones rushing up the stairs to find their bags.

“Mom look at you. You look amazing. That dress is incredible. You look like a model.” Briar grinned.

“Is it true what Dad is saying?” Davis asked. “He says you’re sleeping with some old fart. Some guy as old as grandpa. He says you got yourself a sugar daddy.”

She should have known Darcy would have bad mouthed her and the situation to them. “I am seeing someone.” She confessed. “And he is older yes.”

“How much?” Briar asked in a disapproving tone.

“Much, but he is nothing like grandpa. I think you will like him very much. I know I do. Just give him a chance.”

“All I want to know is if he treats you well?” Davis demanded protectively.

Vi smiled and placed her hand lovingly to her son’s cheek to reassure him. “He is a wonderful man. Without his help, I wouldn’t be standing here with you tonight. Now go get your bags, and we will go outside and meet him.” She watched as they took off upstairs leaving her in the hall.

Vi’s back stiffened ramrod straight when she saw Darcy come out of his home office to meet her. She tried to repress her smile of satisfaction when he paused at the sight of her in her new dress. His eyes took her in. “Wow, Vi!” He said raking his fingers through his dark hair as he came to greet her. “You look… that dress…” He cleared his throat as he regained his faculties. “Are the kids getting ready?”

“Yes. I’ll have them back in two weeks.” She said.

“I was hoping we could schedule some time to sit down and talk the two of us. Just the two of us. We are two reasonable adults. We can work something out between us. We don’t need to involve Mr. Creek in our petty affairs. I’m sure he is far too busy a man to be bothered with us.” Darcy said with such charm.

Vi offered him a sweet smile as all four of the kids came back down the stairs with a suitcase in hand. “You are right Darcy he is a very busy man, but unlike you, he makes time for me and my affairs.”

His eyes narrowed in annoyance. “How does it feel to be a w***e? To spread your legs for the geriatrics?” He hissed.

Vi took a calming breath; she walked right up to him and looked him dead in the eye. “He is better in bed then you are and bigger too.” She whispered. “That old man makes you look like a minute man with a stick.” She whispered so her children could not hear her.

Vi gasped when Darcy’s hand flew up and closed around her throat. He spun her around and slammed her hard against the wall. Her head slammed against a framed picture. His grip closed tightly around her windpipe cutting off her air. She couldn’t breathe. Sissy screamed surprised begging him to release Vi, and the children began screaming.

“Let go of her!” Davis yelled. “Dad let go of her!” He rushed his father when Darcy refused to release Vi. He hit and punched his father trying to force him to release his mother. The screaming and commotion had alerted Ronny outside, and the front door flew open slamming against the wall as it flung wide. Sissy screamed again as he stalked into the house huge and menacing, the fury and rage flashing in his dark eyes.

Ronny fixed Darcy with a hard glare and Darcy’s hate-filled expression melted away to one of fear as he dropped Vi and backed away. Vi landed on the floor slumped over on her hands and knees gasping for air. Ronny stalked over to Darcy as he backed away into the family room trying to put the couch between him and the huge angry black man. “Sissy call the police now!” Darcy ordered. “Get out of my house.” He barked. “I’ll have you arrested if you touch me.” He warned.

Ronny shoved the couch out of the way effortlessly and advanced on Darcy. “You like hurting women?” He growled. “How about facing a man?”

“Get out, I’m warning you.”

“Not so tough now?” Ronny growled grabbing Darcy by the shirt and punching him hard enough to send him to the floor. He stepped over Darcy bent over and grabbed him once more to hit him again. “Isn’t this fun?” He growled punching Darcy a third time. “We don’t hurt women.” He said hitting him again. “Say it.”

“We don’t hurt women.” Darcy eagerly repeated trying to avoid another blow.

“Now we don’t want to have this conversation again, do we?” Ronny asked giving Darcy a hard shake. “Because if we do, I won’t be so nice next time.” Darcy nodded that he understood. “If you ever so much as think of touching her again I will come back for you and we will pick this conversation up from here.” He snarled dropping Darcy.

Davis helped Vi to her feet, and she rubbed her hand across her sore throat. Ronny came back to her side his eyes soft and concerned. His knuckles bruised and bloodied from assaulting Darcy. “Are you alright?” He asked caressing her face. She nodded. “You’re not coming in here alone anymore.” He turned his attention to Sissy who now stood backed against the wall with the phone in her hand. He pointed a warning finger at her. “If you have any sense you’d leave him too. If he can do this to one woman, you will be next.” He warned. “Let’s go.” He said putting his arm around Vi and ushering her outside.

“Come on kids,” Vi said gathering the children and ushering them out the door. “Daddy will be fine.” She assured them.

“To hell with Daddy,” Parker snapped with anger, “are you, ok Mom?”

“I’ll be fine.” She assured them as they went outside.

“Thank you,” Davis said taking Ronny’s hand and shaking it. “It’s time someone put him in his place. I only wish I could have done it myself.” He said pausing as he looked closely at the man he was speaking too. “Oh my god, you’re a Heathen!” He grinned excitedly. “You’re Ronny Creek. Mom, you’re dating Ronny Creek?”

“Oh my god!” Parker and Briar squealed.

“Mom you’re dating a rock star that is so cool.” Briar grinned patting her on the back.

Vi was happy to see that her children liked Ronny. “Is that a limo?” Brea asked running toward the limo on the street.

“Limo?” The twins repeated turning around. “Cool.”

“Do we get to ride in the limo?” Parker asked.

“We sure do.” Ronny smiled.

“This is so cool.” She squealed, and Vi watched as her children bolted for the limo all eager to get inside. The driver held the door open taking their bags to store in the trunk. Vi and Ronny got inside and shut the door. The children were jumping around exploring the limo excitedly.

She took a minute to settle them down so she could make the proper introductions. Once, Vi, had them seated and settled she began. “As you all know I have been seeing someone. This is Ronny; he owns the bar where I have been working.”

“You own the hottest nightclub in New York,” Briar said. “The VIP. I read it in a magazine. Anyone who is anyone is dying to get in.”

Ronny smiled. “Yes, I do.”

“Miss. Know-it-all here is my daughter Briar.” Vi introduced her and Ronny shook her hand.

“A pleasure.” He smiled. “And you must be Davis.” He said looking at her son. Davis smiled. He then turned his attention to the other two. “This lovely young woman must be Parker.” He said addressing her young daughter and causing her to blush.

“I’m Brea.” Her youngest piped up.

“Of course, you are and look at all those beautiful blonde curls you have. I know women who would pay hundreds of dollars to have hair as pretty as yours. I bet you break hearts at school.”

“I like him.” Brea grinned.

“Are we staying in Jan’s apartment?” Davis asked.

“Where are we all going to sleep?” Briar jumped in.

“Jan’s apartment is small,” Parker complained.

“Do I have to sleep on the floor?” Brea asked.

“No,” Vi said raising her hand to silence them all. “We are going to be staying with Ronny.” She announced watching them all get huge smiles.

“And you all have your rooms.” He added. Again, they all started speaking at once with many questions. The limo pulled up in front of an expensive Italian restaurant downtown. The kids were excited as they were shown to a table with white linen tablecloths and lit candles. They got a kick out of the finely dressed waiters and the crystal drinkware and the fine silver. They had never been to a fancy restaurant.

None of them could read the menu, so Ronny translated the menu allowing everyone to choose what they wanted for dinner. When the waiter came to take their order, he awed the children by ordering fluently in Italian. He then spent the next twenty minutes as they waited for their food teaching the kids how to say certain phrases in various languages. Vi was surprised how at ease he was around her children and how quickly they were talking to him.

Their food was delivered, and everyone enjoyed the fine meal the children asking Ronny about what life was like as a rock star on the road which he was happy to talk about but had cleaned a lot of the stories up for young ears. As the meal came to an end, Vi’s eye was drawn to the front entrance by the arrival of two uniformed officers. Ronny had noticed the arrival of New York’s finest as well.

He finished his drink and reached for his wallet. Ronny then took out some money and tossed it on the table. “This should cover the meal.” He said, and then he took out some more money and placed it into Vi’s hand. “This is to tip the driver.” He said taking his keys from his pocket he handed them to her as the two officers approached their table.

“What’s happening?” Vi asked, worried that he was giving her money and his keys.

“Just wait for me at home I will see you in the morning.” He said as the two officers reached the table.

“I don’t understand.”

“Ronny Creek?” The officer asked.

“Yes.” He smiled up.

“We are here to take you into custody.”

“Fair enough,” Ronny said standing up and placing his napkin on the table. He turned around and placed his hands behind his back waiting to be handcuffed.

“What for?” Vi demanded.

“Assault and battery. Mr. Creek here beat a man earlier this evening. The other man has pressed charges.”

“This is ridiculous.” Vi snapped. “He was defending me. My ex-assaulted me, Mr. Creek came to my defence.”

“I’m sorry Miss. The complaint has been made we have to take him in.” The officer said. “You may come in and make a complaint about your assault, but we still have to arrest him.”

“It’s fine Vi. I’ll be out by morning. Just take the kids home.” Ronny said with a smile as the officers walked him out of the restaurant in handcuffs. He didn’t deserve to go to jail for protecting her.

Vi gathered the kids. “Come on; we are going to that police station.”

“Are you going to bail him out?” Asked Brea.

“No silly, she is going to press charges against Daddy.” Parker chimed in.

“Good,” Davis muttered under his breath.

“Maybe a night in jail will teach him not to be such a jerk,” Briar added.

Vi wasn’t as sure as her children, but she was sure that if anyone deserved to spend the night in jail, it was Darcy and he wasn’t going to be pleased when law enforcement picked him up.