The Truth Be Told (The Truth in Lies Saga #3)

by Jeanne McDonald

  My heart weighed heavy in my chest. A mere twenty-four hours ago, I was certain everything would work itself out. Drew and I would go home and start a life together. It would be hard, and I would lose Olivia, but I was okay to make that sacrifice. Drew was worth it. Our love was worth it. But now, in the light of my revelation concerning his father, I wasn’t so sure. It was one thing for me to lose Olivia—I’d lost her already when I broke the girl code—but Drew would lose his family, and there was no way I could stand between him and his family.

  “Something’s burning out here.”

  Caught by surprise, I turned to find Jared standing at the back door, his hands thrust into his pockets, watching me. He smiled, but even in the dim light, I could see it didn’t reach his eyes. He loosened his tie and stepped toward me.

  “I don’t smell anything,” I replied, meeting him halfway.

  Jared reached out to wipe the tears from my face. “Seriously, woman. Whatever it is you’re thinking, stop.”

  I pulled away, throwing my hands up in the air in frustration. “Jared, don’t you get it? That man’s never gonna accept me.”

  “And why does his acceptance matter?”

  “Because I refuse to come between them. I love Drew too much and it wouldn’t be fair to make him choose. No one should ever be forced to make a choice like that.”

  Jared rushed his fingers through his hair, shaking his head. “Take a walk with me,” he requested, taking my hand in his. We walked from the pool toward the garden in silence. I was a mass of conflicting emotions, staring at the space where in two days time Gavin and Morgan would join as man and wife. I envied them. Especially Morgan. She belonged to this life, where I felt odd and out of place. Drew deserved better than me.

  White chairs were lined up in rows, waiting to be decorated for the main event. Two large trees swayed under the moonlight, creating a perfect canopy for a wedding to take place. We sat down on the front row. I leaned forward, resting my elbows on my knees, and dropped my chin in my hands. I closed my eyes, pulling in a deep breath, the warm summer air filling my lungs.

  “McKenzie,” Jared ventured, “I want you to think about this for a moment.”

  “About what?” I muttered.

  “About everything. You’ve managed to convince yourself already that leaving Drew, again, is in his best interest, but it’s not. You didn’t see how miserable he was without you.” Jared tucked his hair behind his ears, staring up at the sky. He let out a grunt. “He’s a grown man, and he made a choice knowing the ramifications of his actions. He chose you.”

  “Then he chose wrong! By loving me, he loses his father. I couldn’t live with myself if that were to happen…if I were the cause.”

  “Are you blind? Jesus! Have you not been watching Drew and Jonathan this week? Jonathan is vicious. He’s ruthless, and he doesn’t care about Drew or Drew’s happiness. It’s all about wealth and power and the Wise legacy. He cares more about appearances than those he loves. Hell, I’m not sure he’s even capable of love. To be honest, I’m not even sure the bastard has a heart.”

  Jared sat back, propping his arms behind his neck as he crossed his legs. I knew that expression on his face all too well. The creases at the corners of his mouth dipped deep with his smile. He let out an evil little chuckle. I tilted my head, raising a brow. “What’s so funny?”

  He rubbed his chin, contemplating, “I was just thinking I knew someone like him. Then it hit me, Jonathan is Olivia with a dick.”

  I bolted upright. “How could you say that? Liv’s nothing like that man.”

  “Oh but she is. She’s vile and cunning. She’s money and power hungry, and she’d do anything to get what she wants, including getting herself pregnant.”

  My hands fell into my lap. “You’re not seriously suggesting she got pregnant on purpose?”

  He pursed his lips and shrugged. “I wouldn’t put anything past her.” He dropped his leg, leaning forward. “Think about it. It’s really kind of perfect. She knew you and Drew were getting closer by the day. Hell, anyone with a pair of eyes could see how hard he was falling for you,” he stated with a sour note to his tone. “And we all know you’re loyal to a fault. By getting herself knocked up, she’d secure her place in Drew’s life and remove her competition in the process.”

  “That’s ridiculous. She’d never do such a thing.”

  “No? No! I’m on to something here.” He bounced his legs with excitement.

  I slumped back into my chair and crossed my arms over my chest. “Have you ever considered trying your hand at writing fiction? You have a very active imagination.”

  “Hear me out. The night she supposedly got pregnant, you told me Drew was pissed and drunk so he wasn’t thinking clearly. In Drew’s case, he probably wasn’t thinking at all. What dumbass would fuck her?” Jared visibly shivered.

  I rolled my eyes. “So what if he was drunk? People get drunk and have sex all the time, Jare. Bars have created a sizable industry around people getting drunk with the precursory notion of getting laid.”

  “That’s not what I’m talking about and you know it. My point is, Drew’s inebriation that night gave the heartless bitch ample opportunity to punch a hole in a condom or simply not use one.”

  “This is ridiculous, and trust me, Drew never goes without one.”

  “Eww. TMI, woman! And it’s not ridiculous. It would even explain her reaction to you being here.”

  “You mean her excitement to me being here?”

  “I swear to God, girl, we need to have your eyes examined. Why do you think she was at the airport? She already knew you were coming. Olivia had full intentions of creating a very ugly scene the moment you and Drew showed any signs of being a couple.”

  “That’s why you stepped between us,” I rasped.

  “Yes. I knew if she succeeded, you’d do what you’re contemplating now. You’d leave again. Call me selfish, but I couldn’t lose you that way twice.” Jared grabbed my knees, turning me to face him. His big golden eyes swam with unshed tears. Taking my hands in his, he gave them a good shake. “Listen to me and listen good. You know I love you. You know I’d do anything to have your heart, but even I know that’s not possible because Drew is who you belong with. The spark between the two of you is undeniable. No matter how much I hate it to be true, it is. And I implore you, don’t let Olivia and Jonathan take that away from you. Don’t let them win.”

  I flipped my hands upward, clasping his in mine. While I still didn’t feel he was right about Olivia—I knew her too well to believe she’d devise such a malicious ploy to remove me from Drew’s life—I couldn’t deny what Jared said. Drew had my heart. I loved him. And I knew what life without him was like. It was misery. A living hell I wasn’t willing to live through again. It was time for me to stand and fight for my man. Jonathan be damned.

  “You’re the most selfless man I’ve ever met, and I want you to know I do love you, too.” I pressed a tender kiss to his cheek, the taste of his tears against my lips. “I promise, I won’t leave.”

  His eyes closed tight, he let out a deep sigh. “Thank you.”

  I wrapped my arms around his neck. The weight of the moment hung in the balance between us, anchoring us in time. Truth be told, if Drew had never entered my life, I could’ve seen myself with Jared. Aside from his charm, Jared had a heart the size of Texas, willing and open to love. A little piece of me would be jealous of the woman who’d win his heart, but when that day came, I’d welcome her with open arms. He deserved to be loved unconditionally.

  I pulled back, smiling. “Now, let’s talk about you and Andie.” Bright red heat emblazoned his cheeks. He turned away from me, a little flustered. “She sure did seem interested.”

  Jared’s eyelids fluttered. “Whatever. We both know I’m not her type. She lives a very fast-paced life. I’m too much of a homebody. Besides, if Jonathan dislikes you, he’ll hate me.”

  “But there was an undeniable spark,” I crooned, poking my finger int
o his ribs.

  “Of lust, maybe. Andie only wants me for some dirty wedding sex.”

  “And what’s wrong with that?”

  “Not a damn thing.”

  “Hell, you could try to talk her into a threesome with Natasha,” I teased.

  Jared rubbed his chin. “That’s an idea.”

  We grew quiet, content to sit in the silence of the evening. I rested my temple on his shoulder as he placed his cheek against the crown of my head.

  Before he said a word, I felt his presence. “I thought I might find you both out here.” Drew sounded defeated, which broke me up inside. “But if I’m interrupting…” his voice trailed off.

  I lifted my head, glancing over my shoulder as Drew walked down the center aisle toward us. Jared rushed his fingers through his hair, popping up from his seat. “Not at all, man. I was just checking on her.”

  “Don’t get up on my account,” Drew implored, lowering his hands in a sitting motion.

  “Nah. I was about to head off anyway. I think I’m going to call it a night. I fear if I went back to the party, I’d punch that smug ass you call a father.”

  Drew stepped into the second aisle, falling into the seat behind mine. “If I didn’t think that smug ass would try to sue you for assault, I’d pay to watch you deck him.”

  “It might be worth it,” Jared muttered. He leaned down, pulling me into his arms, and placed a light kiss on my cheek. “Remember what I said,” he whispered to me.

  “I will,” I breathed.

  Jared started down the aisle, his hands tucked into his pockets and his head hanging slightly. I twisted around in my seat, tucking my leg up underneath me.

  “Jared,” Drew called out. Jared stopped, glancing back at us. Drew gave him a quick nod. A sincere smile lit up Jared’s handsome face. He returned the nod and disappeared into the darkness. I might not have understood what that was all about, but I had a sneaky suspicion that my Neanderthal and my best friend had finally come to terms with where each stood in my life, and a mutual respect was born between them.

  “I’m sorry for walking out on ya back there.”

  Drew inclined his head, his eyes reflecting understanding and remorse. “Don’t be. I’m sorry it took me so long to get out here.”

  I dangled my arms over the back of my seat, reaching for him. He met my waiting hands. “That’s your family inside that house, Andy. They only want the best for you.”

  “And I have the best.” He shook my hands. “Right here with you. You’re my home, my heart, my everything. Without you, I’m nothing but an empty shell. If you haven’t figure that out yet…”

  “I know. And I’m not going anywhere.”

  He released my hand, raising his to stroke my cheek, staring deep into my eyes. “I’m holding you to that.”

  I leaned into his gentle touch. “You better.”

  “You want to get out of here?”

  “Don’t you think someone will notice we’re missing?”

  Drew stood up, offering me his hand. “It doesn’t matter if they do or don’t. I’m tired of hiding. Let them find out.”

  “Where will we go?”

  “Back to my place, of course.”

  How I wanted to say yes. After everything that happened, I wanted nothing more than to be at his side, in his bed, making sweet love to him all night long.”

  “Don’t think about. Just say yes.”

  I glanced down at his outstretched hand. “Yes.” Taking Drew’s hand, I walked with him, meeting at the center of the aisle. He pulled me into his arms, kissing me as if no one could easily approach us. I melted, giving into his passion. With each passing second, his kiss grew more urgent. Desire stirred deep inside me.

  He pulled back, smiled, and laced his fingers in mine. “I love you.”

  I squeezed his hand, my kiss swollen lips breaking into a beaming smile. “I love you more.”

  We left that house with all the horrors it held for us that night and returned to his condo, where we spent the evening reminding each other how much we truly loved one another.

  Chapter Fourteen

  McKenzie

  The next morning, I woke to the soft hum of Drew sleeping beside me. Splayed across the mattress, he laid on his stomach, one arm dangled off the bed while the other wrapped around me. My eyes opened with a flutter, the bright light from the sun seeping in from the window. I turned my head to admire the man beside me.

  The dark burgundy sheet draped over his long, lean, muscular form. I stretched my aching limbs, purring in contentment. What was nearly a nightmare of a night, turned into a dream—one I didn’t want to wake from. It was a shame the dream had to come to an end. Round two of bridal events began this morning with a brunch for the ladies. At least I wouldn’t have to endure another encounter with Jonathan until tomorrow at the wedding.

  I glanced over at the alarm clock. My heart jumped in my chest when I realized what time it was. I shook Drew’s arm. “Andy, wake up. We’ve gotta go now. I’m late.”

  Groggy and sleep deprived, he mumbled something about five more minutes and pulled me closer to him. I wiggled and squirmed, pushing his arm off of me. “No, now! I’m supposed to help set up for the ladies’ brunch this morning.” I shook him. “Wake up! Olivia’s gonna kill me.”

  Drew rolled over, extending out his arms and legs. He reminded me of a cat who’d been woken abruptly and wasn’t too happy about it. “Olivia can go fuck herself. That’s what they hired a staff for.”

  “That might be true, but I still need to get back there for the brunch, you know.”

  He rubbed his eyes and threw back the covers, exposing his naked body. I caught myself staring, a little embarrassed that I was unable to take my eyes off him. No matter how many times we’d been together, engaging in the most intimate acts known to man, I still marveled at how a man like him even existed, let alone loved me. His toned stomach rippled as he moved. The curve of his biceps flexed under his beautiful, sun kissed skin. He rubbed both his hands on the top of his head and moaned. “Fine,” he grumbled. “You win.”

  Desire for him stirred up inside me. I leaned over to kiss him. “Thank you.”

  He pushed my hair back from my face, pressing his lips firmly to mine. I opened my mouth, inviting him in. He accepted, his tongue sweeping across mine. A wave of desire washed over me at the realization of how exposed he was to me. “Anything for you,” he breathed into my mouth.

  I bit my bottom lip, my heated gaze drifting down his body. “Anything, you say?” I skimmed my fingers down his chest, making my intentions known.

  In one quick swoop, he had me in his arms and pinned beneath him. My eyes widened, my breath caught in my chest. I ran my tongue over my lips, anticipating his next move. “Absolutely anything,” came his answer in a soft, low moan.

  I whimpered, feeling the heat ignite between my thighs. The mere sound of his voice made me shiver all over. A fervent fire ignited between us, the air thick with sexual tension. He captured my bottom lip with his teeth, sucking it into his mouth. A surge of passion exploded between us.

  I slipped my hands between us, raking my nails down his chest. He winced as his nipples hardened at my touch, but he only spurred me on. Inch by inch, I ran my fingers over his stomach until I reached his thick, hard length. I wrapped my hand around him, palm to skin, caressing him.

  His intense gaze met mine and our mouths crashed into one another, hard and hungry. Our tongues tangled together as I stroked him harder and faster. The sound of his moans was music to my ears.

  Drew slipped his hand down my side, cupping my breast and toying with my firm peak. Continuing to stroke him, I felt his body jolt. He pulled back his hips, removing himself from my grasp. “I want to be inside you,” he rasped. I nodded, because I couldn’t agree more. He reached for a condom from the bedside table, ripped open the tinfoil, and slipped it over him. I wrapped my legs around his hips, lifting up to meet his. Lost in his touch, I knew now, more than ever, this was wh
ere I belonged.

  A couple hours later, Drew and I were back at his parents’ house, attempting to sneak in without being caught. Our attempts were foiled when Jared met us at the door, looking a little disheveled. “Dude, seriously, we’ve got to go. We’re supposed to already be at the golf course,” he told Drew. “Hi, McKenzie,” he added as an after thought.

  “Shit. I totally forgot about that,” Drew replied, laughing, tickling my ribs.

  “Well, get a move on it,” I playfully scolded him.

  Drew laughed, sneaking in one last kiss. He swatted me on the butt as I moved to walk past him, heading up to my room. I squeaked and jumped. “Good Lord,” Jared groaned, grabbing Drew by the arm and dragging my man away from me.

  All the way up the stairs, I looked over my shoulder to make sure I was undetected. The thought of Olivia catching me sneaking into the house with last night’s dress on was a nightmare I didn’t wish to endure.

  Once in my room, I was met by a perturbed Mackie, who expressed her disappointment with a snotty meow. She bumped my ankles, twisting and twirling around them until I finally picked her up. A little smug for getting what she wanted, she purred in my arms, nuzzling her head to my neck. I chuckled and scratched behind her ears, carrying her with me to the closet. “I promise, little lady, this is almost over. You’ll love where we’re going next. Florida is Mommy’s favorite place in the world.”

  I placed Mackie on the floor and started to scramble through my wardrobe. At the front was the dress Drew had purchased for me. I smiled, running my fingers along the soft material. He really did spoil me. Passing over the dress, I chose a pair of black slacks with a white button down blouse. Sensible but elegant.

  Undressed down to my bra and panties, I tossed my dirty clothes aside and stepped into my pants. My bedroom door flew open, startling me, nearly sending me forward before I could pull my pants completely up my waist. “Knock, knock,” announced a smiling Andie. She gave me once over and marched into my room, closing the door behind her. “Looks like someone did the walk of shame this morning.”