Love & Corruption: A Love & Ruin Standalone Novel

by J. A. Owenby

  “Was there anything else?” Brian asked, interrupting us.

  “No, that about wraps it up,” Redd said, exhaustion heavy in his voice.

  “You all did good work. I’ll be in touch. Pierce, get them home and you all get some sleep.”

  I got out of the back and shook Brian’s hand. I was more than ready to take Sutton to my bed.

  “You’re never leaving me again.” I leaned down and cupped the sides of Sutton’s face. “I can’t …” A ball of emotions lodged itself in my throat, rendering me speechless. My forehead touched hers, and I kissed her full mouth. “I love you, Sutton Forrester. If I’d lost you …”

  “I love you, too, Pierce.” Tears streamed down her cheeks.

  Pulling her to my chest, I tugged the bed comforter up over us. I’d never been so happy to be home. Even in Portland.

  “We got him. I couldn’t have done it without you,” I said.

  “Honestly, I was so pissed I’d gotten myself in the situation. How had he played me?” Sutton asked.

  “None of us can blame ourselves. I went against my instincts. I should have fired him. Redd trusted me, and I trusted Dad’s judgment. But … if I had, we’d never have made the arrest and learned about who was running the trafficking ring.”

  “Speaking of Redd. He started yelling and screaming at Dick. I couldn’t figure out what he was doing until I heard you break down the door and Lionel and his guys showed up downstairs. Redd heard the motorcycles in the distance and to distract Dick, he started shouting at him.”

  I laughed aloud at Vaughn’s tactics.

  “It worked. Dick was so pissed, he never realized anyone was there until it was too late.”

  “We tried to keep the noise down, but the bikes are loud,” I said.

  “Baby,” she whispered, her fingers trailing down my cheeks. “Thank you for listening to your instincts. Thank you for getting us out of there before it was too late.”

  I tucked a few hairs behind her ear and smiled.

  Her eyes fluttered closed, tears hanging from her eyelashes.

  “When Dick told me he’d emailed you from my computer … I’d hoped it was enough. It was his one big slip up … The one that brought me back home to you.”

  She paused, her eyes searching my face. “But Pierce … why Lionel? You know he’ll call in the favor.”

  I propped up on my elbow and stared at her. My pulse spiked. I’d nearly lost her. Once was enough, never again. Not on my watch.

  “I owe him a few now,” I admitted.

  Worry lines wrinkled her forehead. “What? Pierce, if this is about me, and you’ve reconnected with them …”

  “Shh, babe … It’s all right. When I was eighteen and left for the military, Lionel promised he’d protect you. He’s always kept an eye on you and Mom until she passed away. When Dick took you, it was personal. You know they take care of their own, and I’ve belonged to him and the club for years. He just let me have a pass for a while.”

  Sutton struggled to sit up, her mouth gaping open. I hated to see the fear in her eyes. I wasn’t the same man I was when we were eighteen. Hell, I wasn’t the same man who had shown up in Portland a month ago.

  “Are you joining?” Worry clouded her features.

  “No, I have the company, but there are times where his expertise will come in handy, like it did tonight. And vice versa. Maybe it will help if you think of him as a business partner.”

  “Do you promise me if it gets … if you get in too deep, you’ll talk to me?”

  “You have my word. But for now, all I want is to make love to you and hold you until the sun comes up tomorrow.”

  Chapter 39

  A huge grin spread across Sutton’s face. Six months had passed, and we’d settled into a productive and comfortable routine between Spokane and Portland. Now that the danger was gone, at least for the moment, I’d fallen in love with Oregon again. The FBI had Dick in custody, along with several of his crew, and the tunnels had been blocked off to prevent any additional human trafficking. It wasn’t a fix, but it was a start.

  The phone rang and I tapped the speaker button, placing it on the kitchen counter. I nodded to her. This was the call we’d been waiting for. Sutton danced around like an excited little kid, her blonde hair flying around her sun-kissed face. Nothing in my life made me happier than to see her so elated.

  “Pierce, dude, how the hell are ya?” Hendrix Harrington asked.

  “I’m good, how are you guys?” I couldn’t hide the smile in my voice.

  “We just finished our U.S. tour. Can you believe it? It’s been nuts!”

  “You guys are all over the headlines and music charts. Congrats, man.” I couldn’t have been happier for the band.

  “It wasn’t the same without you. Are you sure you won’t consider going with us again?”

  Sutton squealed, and my laughter filled the phone line. “I’d love to make a concert if I can talk you into some front row seats for my team?”

  “Anything you want. I know Gemma and Mac really miss you, too.”

  “I miss them as well.” I glanced at Sutton. I’d not told her at one point I’d had feelings for Gemma. Although I loved Gemma, it was nothing like what I felt for Sutton. Gemma was good for me, just like I was for her, and she would always be in my life.

  “I’d like to hire you guys,” I said.

  “Hire? Come on man. You’re family, and there’s never a charge.” He laughed. “Besides, Franklin would kick my ass if you paid me.”

  Sutton jumped up and down, covering her mouth with her hand. A hearty laugh bubbled up from my chest.

  “How about you guys play for me in Italy? I’ll cover the cost of your trip, and I’m more than willing to pay you. I’d love for Franklin and Janice to be there, too.”

  “Wow, Italy, huh?” Hendrix asked.

  “Yeah ... I’m getting married.”

  Hendrix let out a loud whoop, and Sutton sprang to life, leaping across the kitchen and into my arms.

  “Hendrix, meet Sutton. The one that got away, and I was lucky enough to find again.”

  Chapter 40

  Italy was breathtaking with its rolling green hills and vineyards. I’d rented out the Borghesi Estate & Vineyards for the ceremony. Although the vineyard had stopped hosting weddings, I’d convinced them it would be phenomenal publicity to have August Clover in town. Hendrix and the band even agreed to do a few interviews while they were there.

  Sutton, her mom, and Claire were getting ready in the bridal suite while Redd, ZW, and I waited downstairs in the groom’s dressing room. My heart pounded against my chest, my nerves humming with excitement, but I was so ready to give Sutton my last name. This wasn’t a dream I needed someone to pinch me and wake me from. This was about to happen. Sutton Forrester was minutes away from becoming Mrs. Westbrook. She was the best decision I’d ever made.

  “Knock, knock.” The door of the suite opened. “Hey, man!” Hendrix Harrington strolled in wearing a huge grin. “Everybody dressed? The girls are with me.”

  “Hey, come on in!” I stood and embraced him. “Touring is serving you well. You look amazing, man.” Hendrix had been the Washington state boxing champion for several years, and although he wasn’t competing anymore, he stayed in great shape.

  “Thanks. The girls are safe to join us?”

  “Yeah, we’re just waiting for the ceremony to start.”

  Red hair caught the corner of my eye, and I faced Gemma. She gave me shy smile while she approached me. Although my feelings had shifted, I still loved her. I always would. We’d bonded the moment I’d burst through her front door in Louisiana to find her fighting with a man attempting to harm her. I’d not even trained her yet, but her will to survive allowed her to fight and kick his ass.

  “Hi,” she said, beaming at me.

  I gave her a big hug, and for the first time since I’d met her, I hadn’t wished she’d chosen me instead of Hendrix. We were both exactly where we belonged.

 
; “Is he being good to you?” I grinned at her and nodded at Hendrix.

  Her fair cheeks flushed bright pink. “Yeah, he’s the best.” She gave Hendrix a dreamy look.

  “Shew! I had to pee, and let me tell you it’s a lot harder with all these buttons on my … Pierce!” Mackenzie darted toward me at full speed, flinging her arms around my neck.

  “Hey, Mac,” I laughed. “I’ve missed you guys a lot.”

  I released her, grinning at all of them. Their presence today was the best wedding gift I could have asked for.

  “Dude, when Hendrix told us you were getting married, I was like nuh-uh. Shut the front door!” She bounced up and down on her tiptoes, clapping her hands, and everyone’s laughter filled the small room.

  “I’m so glad you all are here. Franklin and Janice are, too?” I asked.

  “Yeah, they’ll catch up with you after the ceremony,” Gemma said.

  “You all remember Redd and ZW?” I motioned toward my best men.

  “Hey, it’s good to see you again,” Hendrix said, shaking their hands.

  “Gem-ma! The eyes …” Mac stared at Redd without a lick of embarrassment.

  “Mac,” Gemma said, giggling and covering her mouth with her hand.

  “You guys want to do me a favor?” I asked, smiling widely.

  “I’ve never seen you smile this much.” Mac gaped at me in awe. “Who is this girl and what has she done with stoic Pierce?”

  “I have to agree with her, but whoever she is … she’s good for you.” Hendrix patted me on the back.

  “Why don’t you all go on upstairs? Sutton, her mom, and sister are up there. I’d take you, but ya know … bad luck to see the bride. I’m ready to leave all the bad crap behind.”

  “No shit.” Mac nodded in agreement. “Speaking of behind … as in cute behind. Where’s my hottie of a boyfriend?”

  “He’s helping set up for the performance. He’ll meet you out there,” Gemma said, taking Hendrix’s hand. “We should go greet the soon-to-be Mrs. Westbrook.” Gemma gave me a warm smile.

  “I’ll see you guys after the ceremony.” Never in a million years had I expected my heart to feel so full of love. Not only concerning Sutton, but the fact that everyone I considered family was here with us today. And somewhere in my soul, I knew Mom and Dad were watching over me.

  Chapter 41

  “Congratulations, Pierce … Sutton,” Franklin Harrington said, patting me on the back.

  “You’re just stunning,” Janice Harrington said, embracing Sutton, then me.

  I beamed down at my gorgeous bride. Her form-fitted wedding gown had left me breathless when I saw her walk toward the altar. It had hugged all the right curves and accentuated her breasts. A row of pearls had been weaved through her updo, and she wore the diamond necklace I’d given her as something new. She was stunning. Breathtaking. Officially mine.

  “These are Hendrix and Mac’s parents. I worked for Franklin for over a year.”

  “Best security we ever had.” Franklin lifted his glass of sparkling cider to me. It was always nice to see he continued to say no to the alcohol that nearly destroyed his life.

  Sutton threw her arms around them. “I’m so glad you’re here. Thank you so much for taking Pierce in. Well, I know it wasn’t quite like that.” She blushed and threaded her fingers in mine.

  “More champagne?” I asked, grinning at her. Sutton had always been super friendly when she was drinking. And adorable.

  “Yes, please.”

  “What a stunning location. I’ve not been to Italy in a while, so this was the perfect opportunity to bring Janice,” Franklin said.

  “Will you all be joining us in Spokane permanently?” Janice asked, sipping her bubbly.

  “We’re back and forth for a while. I’m still getting my feet on the ground with the company. So far this arrangement is working out fine,” I replied, grabbing Sutton and I more champagne from the waiter who was working the small and cozy crowd while the band performed.

  “Let’s get together and have dinner when we’re all in Spokane. The ladies can hang out, and I’d like to chat with you about business,” Franklin said.

  “Oh, that sounds like so much fun!” Sutton chimed in. “I don’t know anyone there yet, so it would be super nice to have some friends.”

  “Do you like to shop?” Janice asked, her brown eyes dancing.

  Sutton glanced up at me.

  “She likes to shop,” I said, chuckling.

  “Excellent. I’m going to steal your bride for a few minutes so we can plan our girl’s weekend. I know for a fact that Gemma and Mac would love to have a spa and shopping trip.”

  “Oh. My. God. Seriously?” Sutton squeaked.

  My eyes followed my new wife while the ladies talked, leaving Franklin and me alone.

  “Well, Janice and I are a testament that the second time around is the winner,” Franklin said.

  “That’s right, you and Janice. How are things going?”

  “Better than I could have ever hoped for.” Franklin smiled as his gaze located the love of his life.

  “So, you have business to talk about?” I shoved my hands into my tux pockets and studied one of the men in my life that I held a large amount of respect for. He was smart as hell, sophisticated, and loyal. Everything I admired.

  “Not at your wedding,” he said.

  “Why not? You know damned well we’ll be talking business before the weekend is over. I mean, I’ll be in my suite with my wife part of the time, but we have winery tours, outings, all the events are planned and paid for.”

  “It meant a lot when you invited us,” Franklin admitted.

  “You’re the closest thing to family I have other than Sutton, Redd, and ZW. We shared a childhood, but you guys are my Washington family. I was pretty messed up when I showed up at your doorstep. Seeing Sutton again, it’s like she was the puzzle piece I’d been missing for the last several years.”

  Franklin raised his glass. “Cheers to second chances, and the love of a lifetime.”

  Our glasses clinked, then I heard Gemma’s voice float over the speakers. The lilt of her tone stirred a deep love inside me. For Sutton.

  “I’d like to dance with my new wife, if we can catch up later this weekend?”

  “Of course!” Franklin shooed me away.

  I hurried toward my bride, grabbed her drink, and placed it on a table. Twirling her around, her laugh filled my ears. My arm slipped over her shoulder while the lyrics of “Ashes” by Celine Dion rang through the speakers. Gemma’s voice was perfect for this song.

  “Mrs. Westbrook.” I pulled her against me and wrapped my arm around her waist. “My beautiful wife.”

  Her smile made my heart soar. “I love you, Mr. Westbrook,” she said, her eyes dreamy. “This … you are more than I could have ever thought possible.”

  I kissed the tip of her nose. “Beauty from ashes.” I kissed her passionately, my heart overflowing. She sighed and leaned into me.

  It had been a lifetime ago since my life seemed almost picture perfect. The woman I’d loved, lost, and found again, was now my wife and in my arms. I was surrounded by family and friends who I loved and trusted. The only thing missing was Mom and Dad, but Sutton’s words, that they were watching over me, whispered in my mind. And for the first time since Dad had passed, I believed both my parents were with me and celebrating the most important day of my life.

  Epilogue~ Vaughn (Redd)

  Small. The wedding was small. One hundred people was small to Pierce and Sutton. My boss had paid for everyone to fly over to Italy for their special celebration.

  Most days I was perfectly happy with my job, but not today. A touch of envy stirred in my gut. I wanted to join the party instead of working.

  Although we were technically off duty, there wasn’t such a thing. It didn’t exist when you were a bodyguard. It was Pierce and Sutton’s weekend, but ZW, Tad Murphy, Jeffrey, and I were on high alert for any potential threats to Pierce an
d Sutton or their wealthy guests. Not to mention a very famous band was playing for them. And I just wanted to chill and lose myself in the beauty Italy had to offer. The rolling, green, lush hills and the unique architecture of the castle were great places to start.

  My attention returned to the outskirts of the winery. This was a wedding, weren’t groomsmen supposed to get laid? Wasn’t everyone supposed to have a wild night, wake up in the wrong beds, grab their clothes, and run?

  I released a sigh as my thoughts darkened and revisited the last case we’d worked. After my stupidity of allowing Sutton and myself to be rope-tied to chairs and nearly auctioned off as sex slaves, I really questioned if I was in the right industry. I mean, who the fuck allowed their client to be tranquilized and bound?

  The bossman had blown over it like it wasn’t a big deal, but I’d started to reconsider my future. The problem? It was all I knew. Pierce, ZW, Sutton … they'd been my family since high school. I was a few years behind them, but we’d all trained in martial arts together. They were more my blood than my biological family. How do you walk away from that?

  “Hi.” My focus bounced from the outskirts of the party to the hot young woman in purple that had taken her time approaching me. “I brought you a drink. You appeared lonely out here,” Claire said, her dimples winking at me.

  Sutton’s sister. Barely nineteen. Kidnapped. I had no business looking at her like I was right now. My brain screamed "No" at me, but my dick said something entirely different.

  “Thanks.” I took the glass from her. “What do you think of Italy so far?” I couldn’t ignore the swell of her large breasts. Quickly diverting my gaze, I reminded myself the hell this girl had just been through.

  “It’s beautiful. I’ve always wanted to travel,” she said, looking out over the hills.

  “That’s a perk to my job. I definitely travel.” I took a large gulp of champagne in hopes the acidic bite would hit my tongue and jar me back to reality. Don’t touch this girl.