by Silla Webb
“Why wouldn’t Laney tell me about this?”
“I don’t know, son. I’m sure it was an oversight.”
“An oversight? Momma, you gotta be f—”
“Ah, ah, ah. You might be six-feet-three and two hundred plus pounds, and I know you’re upset. But you best remember it’s your momma you’re talkin’ to, Madden Alexander.”
What in the ever-lovin’ hell! I can imagine Maggie going toe-to-toe with Madden, her finger wagging in his face as she reprimands him. And that’s exactly what I see as Belle pulls away from me and bursts through the door. I try to grab her before she interrupts them, but her sassy mouth is flapping before I can stop her.
“Hey now, you two. Whys you arguing?” Belle’s demeanor has changed, and her sass has been replaced with… Why is she scared? She locks her arms around Madden’s knee, tears filling her hazel eyes.
The furious glare in Madden’s eyes is immediately replaced with grief as he scoops her up in his arms. Belle wraps her legs around her daddy’s hip, her chubby little arms around his neck, and her head rests upon his shoulder. His large hand cups the back of her head and he kisses her forehead, whispering something so low not even Belle can hear him. This little girl is home in her daddy’s arms. Not once does Madden look my way, and the moment is too private for me to intrude.
“I am so very sorry, y’all. I was trying to keep Belle out of the room until you had finished your conversation, but—”
Maggie turns on me, a sweet and warm smile on her face. “No need to apologize, child.” She looks down at my hand, the protein bar clutched tight in my grasp. “I assume you were bringing that to the lug who forgot to eat lunch?” She thrust her thumb over her shoulder toward Madden.
“Yes, ma’am.” I nod and step around her, offering the protein bar to Madden. His lip tips up in a small smile, and he mouths thank you.
“Jordan, would you mind to see me out?” Maggie asks.
“Of course, Mrs. Davenport.”
Maggie says goodbye to Belle and Madden then follows me out of the room, linking her arm through mine as we descend the hall. It’s an odd gesture, but her Southern charm is … well, charming.
“I swear, I never thought I’d see the day when that man would forget to eat.” She tsks on a laugh, and I listen, soaking up anything I can learn about Madden. “He’s overworked and running himself ragged—being a single daddy ain’t easy. I will say, you’re shaping him up nicely.”
I could press for more details, but I don’t want to overstep my bounds. “Thank you for the compliment, but he’s done all the hard work. I’m impressed with his willpower and dedication.”
“Well, keep pushing him. I think you’re good for him.” She winks and pats my hand with a knowing smile. “I’m sure we’ll see more of each other soon.”
Maggie leaves the gym, and I head back toward my office, but come up short when I hear Belle, “Hers not good, Daddy! She weft me, and nows I have to listen to all those girly girls talk about this stupid tea party wif their moms and then they laugh at me ‘cause I ain’t got one.”
The corner of my lip trembles as I fight back the tears that are now blinding my vision. I lean closer to the door, trying to make out what Madden is saying to console her.
“Shhhh… Who’s your favorite superhero?” Madden’s voice is soft but encouraging.
“D-daddy…”
“And Daddy will always save the day, won’t I?”
There’s a silence between the two, save for the few sniffles I imagine Madden is drying from Belle’s face.
“Your momma loves you, Belly. I know it’s hard for you to understand right now because you’re so little, but your momma isn’t here because she loves you so much. She left to protect you, sweetheart. I promise you, Daddy will love you enough to fill that void and help you to forget.”
Madden’s voice breaks, and I suck back the sob that’s constricting my throat. Her momma l-left her? How? Why? Why would a mother leave her child?
The door to the yoga studio eases open and Madden peeks his head around the corner of the wall, his face red. He looks beat down. Not with exhaustion from work, or his training today, but with life in general. “Eavesdropping again, Jo?” He tries to make light of the situation, but I hurriedly dry my tears.
“Sorry … again. I swear I’m not nosey.” I scrunch my face up, then choke on that lie. “Okay, so that’s not true. But in all honesty, Belle sounded upset, and it—”
Madden wraps his strong hand around my neck and pulls me close to his chest. He presses his forehead against mine and breathes me in before kissing my forehead. This is the second time today he’s displayed affection, though this is far more soft and delicate than the kiss he laid on me earlier. “You’re a good woman, Jo.” And as simple as that, Madden releases me and opens the door, motioning for Belle to follow him.
Stunned beyond recognition, I stare up at this strong man in awe. “Bye, JoJo.” Belle waves, her face tear-stained, as she and Madden head toward the lobby.
“What just happened there?” Bryn asks, startling me.
“Wh—”
She tips my chin upward, closing my mouth. “Gonna catch flies, girl.” She winks then squints her eyes as she studies me. “Jo, everything okay? Have you been crying?” she whispers, because Madden isn’t but eight feet away. I shake my head and head toward the lobby.
“I’m fine, Bryn. Need to freshen up a bit.”
“Oh, honey, there’s no time for that.”
My brain drowns out Bryn’s voice and hones in on Gia’s. She sounds like she’s been sucking on lemons all afternoon, and if I didn’t know her, I’d bet she was with that scouring, puckered face. But nope, that’s just her looks. She grates on my nerves to the infinite level, and the fact that she’s talking to Belle irks me.
A hand waves in front of my face, blocking my view from the scene in front of me. “Jooooo. Are you listening? Nash and the guys will be here any minute!”
I glare at Bryn in confusion. “What?” Looking down at my watch, I think back to my schedule for the day and try to remember his appointment time. “No, Bryn, their training isn’t until five.”
Bryn ticks the face of my watch then taps my nose. “Uh-huh…” Her head moves up and down, a sarcastic smile stretched across her face. But I don’t follow. I can’t focus because I’m so concerned about what Gia is saying to Belle, and I could hear better if Bryn wasn’t distracting me.
Bryn snaps her fingers in front of my face then comes nose to nose with me. “Hey. You got it bad, girl, but now’s not the time. Look at your watch very carefully.” She pulls my wrist up in front of my face, tapping the side of the watch again. Her instructor side is coming out, and I wonder if I’m this annoying to my clients.
“FOCUS.” She taps the watch again.
“Fu—”
Bryn caps her hand over my mouth, nodding. I’m gonna be late. Really fuckin’ late. Shit! The front door opens, and I swear the golden rays of the Savannah sun is eclipsed by the broad shoulders of Nash Walters. His eyes lock on mine, and the most beautiful pearly white smile spreads across his face, a devious yet flirty smirk tipping the right corner of his thick, full lips. Four men, as large and imposing, flank him, two on each side, and hand to God, Bryn fuckin’ mewls like a cat in heat at the sight. Not of Nash—he’s her first cousin, so ewwww.
“Well, hot damn if you don't get prettier every time I see your little pixie ass, Jo.” Nash’s strong arms are around me before I can protest, twirling me around the lobby, no doubt putting on a show for the four teammates he brought with him.
Y’all, I realize in this very moment that Madden Davenport causes my brain to be mush. When he’s in my presence, the world revolves around him. Add in that adorable cupcake-eating sassy preschooler of his, and well, there is no sense of time. Today I’m training four players of the Savannah Sailors in hopes of landing new clients, which could potentially lead to an endorsement for the fitness app that I’ll eventually take to marke
t. I’m mentally prepared for the session, but I usually train one-on-one rather than in a group. I’m a sweaty mess, still dressed in a fitted tank, capris, and trainers, sweat stains ever present. I’d planned on freshening up after Madden’s session, but one thing led to another and then there was that fucking kiss so … yeah.
Over Nash’s shoulder I see Gia watching, her face green with envy. But it’s the dominant glare coming from Madden that makes me pause.
“Oooh-kay, ya big lug. You’re gonna make her pass out!” Bryn swats at Nash’s arm. Oh, I’m dizzy alright, but not from Nash’s attempt at a human Tilt-o-Whirl.
“Oh.” Nash laughs to himself and plants my feet on the floor. I inhale deep to catch my breath while Bryn chides her cousin. Nash pulls her in for a hug, scuffing his knuckles against the top of her head. Getting my bearings, I notice Gia sauntering toward us, while Madden and Belle head out the door.
“Let me introduce you ladies to the guys,” Nash says, speaking directly to Bryn and I while Gia stands on her tiptoes attempting to peek into the group huddle. “This is Brantley MacRae, pitcher. Left-fielder, Kade Steele; Tyler Riddle, short stop. And last but not least, Brady Forsyth, our first baseman.
“It’s nice to meet all of you. I’m ecstatic that you’re all interested in my services, and I’m very eager to show you the app I’ve developed.” Game face on, I’m ready to get down to business. “Bryn is going to be assisting me today. She’ll help you all get the app installed on your devices and we’ll start at the treadmills with a light warmup.”
“You got it, boss.” Nash winks. “This way, fellas.”
*~*
“That deserves a large pepperoni pizza, Mabel’s cupcakes, and some wine!” Bryn cheers with a high five as we enter the employee locker room. Nash and his teammates just left, each giving great feedback about the development and functionality of the app. And I officially have four new clients on my roster.
“True, but I’m gonna have to take a raincheck. I have an early workout with Nash tomorrow before the team heads to Boston for the weekend.”
Bryn eyes me cautiously, her perfectly arched brow quirked at an angle. “Be careful, Jo.”
“Careful? With what?”
“I love Nash, but he’s all about chasin’ tail.”
“Oh, Nash is harmless, Bryn. He knows my rule about not dating clients, and he respects it. Sure, he likes to flirt, but what man doesn’t?”
“Not to put my nose in your conversation, but isn’t that the truth about all men?” Gia interjects, tossing towels into the hamper. “I mean, did you see the way Madden Davenport flirted with me as he was leaving this evening? I could hardly get away from the man.”
Whaaaatt? Bryn shoots me a knowing look, and I bite my lip to keep my mouth shut.
“I know I stirred up a fuss about you getting all the new clients, Jordan, but it’s paying off in my favor, really.”
“Yeah? How’s that?” Bryn’s the first to ask.
“Because I can date whoever I please, and I currently have my eyes on Madden Davenport.” Gia smirks as she unlaces her trainers.
Bryn and I exchange a glance again, and while I have my own opinion on the matter, I keep my tongue in check.
“I must say, Jordan, you have done a great job at getting him in shape. I wouldn’t have even spared him a passing glance when he was all frumpy and overweight. Now … well, let’s just say he’ll finally get the ride of his life that he’s been waiting for since high school.”
I’d act shocked if I was, but…
Bryn doubles over in laughter, clutching her side as all air leaves her small frame. I’d be concerned that she might pass out, but I know it’s all for show and she’s coming in clutch with a witty comeback.
“Why do you sound like a hyena?” Gia asks, her lip curled in disgust.
Watching the great debate, I try to time Bryn’s reaction with a countdown of four, three, tw—
“Why do you think every guy wants to fuck you? Half of Chatham County has done hit it and quit it—for good reason, sooooo. No.” Bryn deadpans with a bored expression on her face. “Reel it in, sister. Only thing you got going for you is a big, unattractive mouth, and I’m sure Madden would prefer not to have your herpes on his dick.” Bryn, God love her, just put Gia in her place, and although the words didn’t come from my mouth, I feel triumphant for my little friend. You never know what you’re gonna get with her.
Gia huffs, her eyes narrowing into slits as she pins Bryn with a nasty scowl. Without another word, she sashays her bony ass out of the locker room.
“You know she’s totally gonna go for him, right?” I ask, hopeful that I don’t come across intimidated. Because I’m totally not, but…
Gia is the one who got away from Madden, and while he doesn’t know I know, and Bryn is oblivious to the entire rewards and milestones he set. I don’t think I could work with him if he and Gia were ever to … yeah. That.
Bryn waves her hand dismissively as she slings her duffle over her shoulder. “Meh, she can try…” She smiles like the cat that ate the canary and continues, “But I’m sure you’ve already got him.”
CHAPTER NINETEEN
MADDEN
“The fuck, Mad. You’re gonna destroy the sheetrock before we even get the fuckin’ wall built.” Maverick laughs, but he’s right. I’m not an aggressive guy, but after another sleepless night and being exhausted, I’m a grumpy asshole. Too much weight on my shoulders pulling my smile into a frown.
And that statement makes me sound like fuckin’ pussy.
Belle had another night terror last night, and even understanding the source of her fears, I feel helpless. The night terror last night was different, as it wasn’t Casey who Belle was crying for. It was me. Daddy, don’t leave me, she cried out, over and over again as she clung to me for dear life. How do I take this fear from her? I need to spend more time with her, but I can’t afford to work less.
I can cut back on my workouts, and that’s really the only room in my day to day that I can work with. I’ll have to talk to Jo on Monday when I go in for training. Maybe she can suggest ways for me to get workouts in while spending time with Belle. I spend thirty minutes of every training session on the treadmill or elliptical, so maybe I need to start cardio at the beach.
“Hey, fucker. Nail gun broke?” Maverick breaks my concentration, and I turn to look at him, confused.
“What?”
“You in your head again, Mad? I asked if the nail gun is broke?” He nods toward the hammer in my hand.
“I think he wants to show off his muscles.” Fifty laughs at his own joke, which ain’t funny in the least.
“Whatever. Just trying to get this wall up. Does it matter what tool I use as long as I get the job done? Besides, who the hell’s the boss here?”
“Actually, I am, asshole.” Maverick points at me with a pencil, measuring a two-by-four. He’s right, but I won’t tell him that shit. Since Dad’s death, managing Davenport Construction has been a huge undertaking, but I’ve been pacing myself to figure out all elements of the business. I refuse to let my dad’s company fail, so having Carter and Maverick manage projects while I oversee operations is the best solution.
“Sorry, guys.” I sling the hammer in the toolbox. “I’m gonna get some fresh air.” I head out the front door and make my way to my truck, my hands laced together overhead. Sudden panic attack clutching my chest.
“Wait up,” Maverick calls from behind. “You good?”
I nod, inhaling deep. Maverick drops the tailgate on the truck and parks his ass, watching me pace and breathe. When the restriction dissipates and my breathing is calm, I grab two bottles of water from the cooler in the bed of truck, offering one to Maverick before downing the contents of my own.
“Got shit weighin’ on ya, man. Ain’t good for you to be on site when your head’s loose. You of all people should know this.”
I scrub my hand over my face. I don’t need to hear a damn lecture from Maverick or anyon
e else. I’m here to do a job just like he is. “Your site. I get it, man. Just trying to offer a hand until I feel that you’re ready to manage a project on your own.”
“That’s bullshit, and you know it,” Maverick deadpans, pulling back a drink of water. “Your headspace, that ain’t got shit to do with my performance of managing a project. You wanna micromanage, go for it. You’re only wasting your time and mine too because you’re getting under my crew’s feet. I can deal with it, no matter how fuckin’ annoyin’ it may be, but what’s more of a concern to me is what has you so preoccupied. You need a break from all the shit cloudin’ you.”
My inward groan escapes on its own volition. “I’m good, Mav. Don’t worry ‘bout it.”
He nods, accepting my dismissal of his opinion. It’s a nice fall day, the temps finally ebbing into comfort. The perfect day to be at the beach. I look down at my watch. “You good here for the day?”
“Fuckin’ finally. Take off. Gotta trust me, Mad. I ain’t gonna fuck shit up.”
“I do trust you or I wouldn’t have considered making you project manager, Mav. Call if something comes up.”
“Yeah, probably won’t, but if it makes you feel any better, just imagine I will. What’cha gonna get into?”
“Head to the beach. Maybe go for a jog.”
“Damn. Proud of ya, man. Lookin’ good. Almost as sexy as me.” Maverick smirks and grips his chin, mock-posing like a damn GQ model. And he sure as fuck could be one, but I’d never tell the fucker that. Instead, I nod.
“Tomorrow night, Skybox? Drinks are on me if you’ll drink anything other than a damn light beer.” Mav jumps down from the back of the truck and folds the tailgate.
I chuckle and head to the driver’s side. “See ya there, asshat.”
