The Billionaire's Jackpot: Betting on You Series: Book Four

by Jeannette Winters

  Ross never thought she might hurt Drew; he was coming to terms with meeting someone who shared a closeness to the part of Brad he really knew nothing about. When a friend hides a big piece of himself, it must hurt. From what she saw of the others, Brad chose to live two totally separate lives: the one he had when he was with them, and the other one that put his own life in jeopardy, giving others a chance to survive. Why he chose the two to never meet wasn’t something she could answer. She didn’t know or understand the Brad they knew any more than they understood the Brad she knew.

  “After the burial the four of us got together and promised to continue with Brad’s mission in life.” Pausing for a moment, he seemed to drift to another place, a memory from long ago. When he spoke again his tone had changed; it took on a more serious note. “What I’m going to tell you can’t be discussed outside of the group.”

  She couldn’t picture what more there could be. Since she wanted to—no, needed to—know, she agreed. “Of course.”

  “We started a private organization called Takes One in his memory. Each month we choose a charity or person in most need and make an anonymous one-time donation.”

  KJ was impressed. There was no doubt in her mind these guys would donate money to a cause, but to do it monthly to honor a friend’s memory was very touching. She held back tears of joy, which threatened to break free. “I’m sure he would have been proud of what you guys are accomplishing.” Actually I know he would’ve.

  “Therein lies the problem. We have the organization with everything in place, yet none of us really know what his true vision was. Each month we’re guessing what he would have wanted. This past year we expanded to a global level, but something still feels off, and we can’t put our finger on it. Since he never shared that part of himself with us, we are working blind.”

  What was she supposed to say to that? He still didn’t realize she knew Brad at all and here he was opening up, sharing everything, holding nothing back. God, I feel like such a jerk. This wasn’t the way the conversation was supposed to go. They were going to admit they both had relationships in the past and move on from there, never talking about them again. But now, that was impossible. Drew was talking about a side of Brad she knew very well. The more he spoke, the more it felt like they were speaking about the same guy instead of two different ones. What was she supposed to do?

  “You must understand why Ross was frustrated earlier. The same reason we all are. We’re searching for answers with absolutely no chance of finding them.”

  Oh Drew, if only that were the truth. She had exactly what they were looking for. Emails from Brad detailing his dream. What they were doing was great work, and she didn’t want to take that away from them, but his dream was so much more. If she brought it up, then Drew was going to want to know how she knew. Was she supposed to give him copies of the emails between her and Brad? That was personal. Not only did it hold his thoughts and dreams, but it held hers as well. And over the years her dreams had changed, just as she had. Brad hadn’t been given the opportunity to grow past the man he had been at twenty-eight. Would his dreams have changed as well? God, this was so complicated. There’s no right answer.

  “It’s hard sometimes to know if you are doing the right thing or not. And sometimes you never really get the answer. We just keep trying to do our best and hope it’s enough.” KJ was no longer talking about them. Her thoughts were on the changes in her own life over the past few years. Back then she knew she was going to retire as a Marine. Nothing, or nobody, was going to ever make her leave the corp. Then in a blink of an eye, everything she had told herself began to unravel. She had only recently started to pick up the pieces. She found they no longer fit like they did before. KJ’s path in life had changed for good. There was no going back. Part of her struggled with that knowledge, and yet another part yearned for what the future held. Although she didn’t write in a journal, if she did she would have called this Chapter Two, A New Beginning. And one she hoped would include Drew, even after he knew the truth.

  Their relationship was so young, but she hoped their physical age would make up for that. Maturity came with age. Discerning what was relevant and what was not too. She didn’t know how he would react but dearly hoped their new love for each other would survive all this. Her mind was already made up. It had to be said. They deserved to know the Brad she knew. Only one question remained. Should she tell him now and possibly ruin Lizette and Jon’s wedding, or wait until they were back in New York?

  Like a sign from above, her phone rang, and it was Lizette. She started to ignore it, but Drew said, “Take it. I have a few calls to make anyway.”

  His eyes were so distant and filled with contemplation. She wanted to reach out and stop him from leaving, but she resisted. For now, this was best. In forty-eight hours, she would tell him everything.

  On the next ring, she took the call. “Hi Lizette, how is everything?”

  “Okay, I guess.”

  That didn’t sound good. She was getting married in less than twenty-four hours. She should be on top of the world, beaming, not just doing okay. “Tell me, what’s wrong?”

  “Are you alone? Is Drew with you?” she asked.

  “He just stepped out. I’m alone. Why?” Now she was concerned.

  After a long pause, Lizette began to speak. “I needed to get away from the crowd for a few minutes. You know, when you find yourself needing to be alone with only your thoughts?”

  Oh God, she’s getting cold feet. “Every bride feels that way. It is normal.” Or so she’d heard. She’d never been a bride and didn’t have the foggiest idea what Lizette was really feeling right now.

  “I don’t have cold feet, KJ. Marrying Jon is the one thing I know is right. Everything else I take one day at a time.”

  Relieved, KJ said, “Good, that’s a good thing.”

  “When I said I needed some time alone, I didn’t get it. There is this tree in my parents’ backyard and anytime I wanted to be alone or hide from others, I climbed it, not high, just a branch or two. So there I sat listening to the frogs down by the pond when you came outside. I was about to let you know I was there until I saw Ross join you.”

  Oh my God. She heard everything. “It’s not what you think.”

  “I know exactly what it is. Don’t worry, I am not judging you. Anyone who looks at you can see how much you love Drew. But I need to ask a favor of you.”

  Could this get any worse? First Ross, now Lizette. The dam was going to overflow and she wouldn’t be able to stop it. But she needed to hear Lizette out. She owed her that much. “What is it?” she asked. Closing her eyes, she prepared for the worse.

  “Don’t tell him, not yet. You will need to one day, but right now he’s vulnerable. You are the first woman he has let into his life. With emotions running high between Elaine having her baby and my wedding, I’m worried if you tell him, he will shut down again, and I’m not sure he will find his way back.”

  KJ had planned on waiting until after the wedding, but Lizette believed she should wait even longer? “What if Ross says something, or if someone else finds out and tells him? How is that going to help our relationship?” Her fears were legitimate. She had a lot to lose. The only man I have ever loved.

  “I don’t think Ross will say anything either,” Lizette said, yet her voice didn’t sound convincing.

  No. KJ couldn’t agree to that. She needed to do this on her terms. “This is something I cannot carry with me. I’ll wait until after we go home, but that’s all. I hope you understand.”

  “KJ, I wish the best for both of you. If you need me, I’m here for you, no matter what happens. Outside of Drew, I still consider you a friend.”

  “Thank you, Lizette. That means a lot to me.” It was also going to make what she needed to do a bit easier.

  A few months ago she’d felt so alone, by her choice. Never had she thought attending one event could bring so many wonderful people into her life. Now she could only hope that a friend
ship from years ago, didn’t cause her to lose it all again. I have already lost so much in life. I’m not sure I could come back again either if I lose Drew, not since I know he loves me.

  Drew hated leaving Katherine alone in their room, but after their conversation about Brad he needed to clear his thoughts. She was expecting a romantic evening, and he might as well have poured a bucket of ice water on them. Talking about a deceased friend was as far away from sexy as you can get.

  The conversation hadn’t been a total waste of time. It gave him a chance to tell her even more about Takes One. It was going to have to be discussed eventually so there was no better time than tonight. But the more he talked about it the more he had the overwhelming feeling they were not on track with Brad’s wishes. What the hell do you want us to do, Brad?

  Ross wasn’t the only one who couldn’t stop thinking about it. There were decisions to make about the future of Takes One. He knew they were on the brink of finding out what Brad truly wanted. His instincts were usually right on. But, there was something he was missing. Right after the wedding he was going to figure it out, no matter what it took. Even if it meant doing something he had been avoiding for years—reading Brad’s journal. Drew wasn’t about to give up when he knew the answer was right around the corner.

  This isn’t fair to Katherine. He brought her here for a fun getaway, and so far she had been dragged around for wedding activities, delivered a baby, and now had to deal with his frustrations regarding Takes One. He could only hope it wasn’t too much for her, as he knew she was dealing with so much already. Better figure this out quickly.

  He had been gone longer than expected. When he finally arrived back at the suite he found Katherine fast asleep on the bed. He was so tempted to wake her. Not only did he miss her in his arms, he needed a distraction. You’re far more than that to me. Grabbing a clean pair of boxers from the drawer he headed for a desperately needed cool shower.

  Chapter Twenty-One

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  Breathe, it’s not like it’s your wedding. KJ couldn’t understand why her legs were trembling as the music played. Just walk down the aisle and stand to the left. Real easy. With each step she took, her eyes saw only one thing: Drew standing at the end, dressed in a tuxedo. God, he’s gorgeous. Even if she wanted to, she couldn’t pull her eyes away. The way he was looking at her felt like he was devouring her in front of everyone. Her body was flush with excitement and embarrassment. Knock it off, Drew; you’re killing me.

  Finally, she made it to the front and forced herself to turn, waiting for the maid of honor, Jill. She thought her reaction was bad, but Jill was smiling from ear to ear and even blew Ross a kiss while walking down the aisle.

  KJ looked at Drew out of the corner of her eye to see if he had noticed. He hadn’t, and his eyes were still fixated on her. She wanted to say something, tell him to pay attention, but there was satisfaction knowing that, in a room filled with many drop-dead bombshells, he seemed to only have eyes for her. A feeling of love flowed through her, causing her eyes to glisten. Don’t even think it.

  At least if she cried, everyone would think it was because the wedding was so beautiful.

  The music changed to the wedding march, and the guests stood, waiting. When Lizette came around the corner, her arm linked with her father’s, everyone gasped in awe. She was stunning. The dress fit her perfectly and every hair was in place, but it was something so much more. She absolutely glowed with love. As she walked to her groom, KJ noticed they never took their eyes off each other.

  KJ felt horrible, and her mind wandered from the time the justice of the peace asked, “Who gives this woman?” How could I do that? She’s my friend. This may have been Lizette’s special day, but all she could think about was Drew and their future. Would she someday be exchanging rings with him? Slow down, take it one day at a time. Easier said than done. As the officiant said, “You may now kiss your bride,” KJ yearned to be kissing Drew.

  This was insane. She was a grown woman and had full control over her thoughts and actions. No proof of that right now. How could one man break through all her defenses? Meeting his gaze again, she knew. He goes straight for the heart.

  They presented Mr. and Mrs. Jon Vinchi, and the bridal couple exited the gazebo. Jill and Ross followed, leaving Drew and her. He extended his arm to her, and she slid hers into his. They were supposed to follow everyone else’s lead, but Drew hesitated. He leaned over and kissed her lightly on the lips. It was only briefly yet her heart practically stopped.

  Giving her no chance to react, he guided them down the aisle behind the others. KJ knew she was lost. She loved this man so much, and he somehow was able to read what she needed or wanted before she asked. Sometimes he knew even before she did. That’s what scares me.

  The bride was supposed to be the most beautiful woman there, but no one stood out above Katherine. She was stunning. Thankfully he wasn’t the best man because he didn’t pay any attention to the ceremony. It hadn’t been his intention, but when she’d walked down the aisle looking at him like she had, it was all over. They should consider themselves lucky I didn’t sweep her into my arms and carry her away before they said “I do.”

  The next hour was pure torture. Stand here, look there, smile and then start all over again in a new location. Drew wanted to know whose bright idea it was to keep men on one side and women on the other. He wanted to feel Katherine’s silky smooth skin under his hand if he couldn’t have anything more.

  He had attended a few weddings before. But as a guest. While everyone in the wedding party was trapped with the photographer, he had been enjoying the bar. Damn, I could use a drink right now.

  He had no idea why anyone would want to do this more than once. Looking at Jill and Ross, he knew they were next. I hope they elope.

  Laughing softly to himself, he knew there was no chance of that. Jill was a party planner, so she was going to plan a big wedding, and Ross wasn’t going to have any say in it. You deserve it, buddy, but that doesn’t make up for totaling my car. He most likely would be doing this again soon, by the way they looked at each other.

  When I get married, it’s going to be a private affair. He looked around in shock, as though he had overheard someone saying those words, but he stood alone. When? That sounded like a plan, as though he had already made up his mind. A few months ago he would never have thought the word if, never mind the word when. What have you done to me, Katherine? How did you find your way inside my heart without me noticing?

  It would be easy to say it was her beauty because she certainly was beautiful, but that wouldn’t have blinded him. No, it wasn’t anything so simple. She was caring, loving, gentle, compassionate, sweet, honest, funny, strong, and so much more. Damn her for being more than I can resist. He’d never thought he needed anyone to complete him. His parents, in their negligence, had taught him to be fiercely independent. It’s as if my solitude has been invaded in the very best way.

  His statement earlier had now been confirmed. When. No way he was ever letting her go. He just wasn’t one hundred percent sure she felt the same way. There were still things they had to discuss; their future being the main one. We’ll resolve that issue when we get back to New York.

  He took her hand in his, and they entered the reception hall. It wasn’t what he wanted, but it was all he could do at the moment. Drew squeezed it slightly and Katherine turned to him. “What is that look for?”

  Drew’s thoughts weren’t as under wrap as he wished. Damn. There was so much he wanted to ask, wanted to say, but timing was everything, and this wasn’t the time. Everything he needed to say required time and a lot of privacy. You’ll just have to wait, Katherine. Not risking even a small hint, he knew she wasn’t going to let him off the hook if she suspected he was holding back. Smiling he said, “I’m just thinking how beautiful you look tonight.”

  He was relieved when she kissed his cheek and turned her attention back to the party. Hook, line, and sinker.

  Chapter
Twenty-Two

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  KJ didn’t know what was up with Drew. He had been acting so differently for the last two days. She knew he was troubled about Takes One and what Brad would have wanted. It had been weighing heavily on her mind as well. Mostly: how or when to tell Drew the truth.

  That was one of the good things about the busy weekend. It hadn’t left much time for pondering the issues at hand. Now back at his penthouse, she had no excuse even though she kept coming up with some lame ones. Walking Blossom and unpacking. Really? Quit stalling.

  The time had come. All she had to do was get Drew to settle down and listen to what she had to say. He seemed to be as distracted as she was today. Maybe after this he would have some of the answers he was looking for. It was unclear what that meant for them and their future. Maybe this is why I’m so nervous.

  She looked on the rooftop, knowing how much time he seemed to spend there. KJ couldn’t blame him. It was as peaceful as could be in the middle of the city, and if she had her way, it’s where she would spend all her time. Surprisingly he wasn’t there. She hadn’t noticed him in the penthouse. Could he have gone out without letting her know? Why not, it’s his place?

  Unable to find him, she decided to lie down and rest up for the inevitable conversation. When she entered the bedroom, she heard soft music from the bathroom. What the . . .? The door was opened, but the room seemed empty. Had he forgotten to turn off the music?

  Entering, she saw the tub filled with steamy bubbles, rose petals sprayed along the edge, and a tray of strawberries and champagne nearby. What’s going on?

  “Glad you could join me.” His voice sounded husky from behind her.

  Spinning around, she was met by the most beautiful sight. Drew was holding a single red rose, standing almost naked, with only a short white towel wrapped below his waist. Oh my God, he’s gorgeous.

  KJ willed herself to take a step toward him, but she was frozen, her eyes roaming over his delicious physique. She was hungry for him: the touch of his strong arms that carried her as though she was a feather; his muscular chest and abs, rock hard, begging her to rake her nails over them; and that bulge, which was growing before her eyes. “Drew.” Her voice was barely a whisper.