She hobbled her way across the room, taking the seat across from me.
“May I offer you a cold beverage?” She smiled, leaning in my direction.
“No.” My answer was clipped. “This is far from a social visit, Ms…”
“Ava, please,” she said.
“Ava,” I repeated, letting her name roll off my tongue—acrid and poisonous, just like she was. Her name suited her. She looked like an Ava, too. For all the smiles she put forth, it couldn’t take away from the full-of-shit air just underneath the surface. I knew she was full of shit. She reeked of it. I rested my attaché case on the coffee table in front of us and watched as her eyes went up in wonder and excitement.
“What have you got there?” She leaned in. I wanted to snap her face shut in it, but didn’t.
“Cash. You do understand cash, right? I will give you 250,000 dollars to never contact Gia again.”
Her eyebrow raised in question.
“And tell me of any conversations or plots you and Morgana have hatched.” I moved the money away from her, showing her I meant business.
“Done.” Her eyes glistened as she licked her cracked lips. “Funny, I always thought giving birth to a child would mean putting them above all else. However, with Gia, I often wondered when I was going to kill her. I’m not meant to be a mother, Mr. Gunner,” she explained.
All I could think about was that poor girl. My heart broke for her.
“Clearly. You should have given her up for adoption, let a loving couple raise her. That would have been the compassionate thing to do,” I huffed angrily.
“I’m not compassionate. And she was my cash cow.” She laughed. Christ. I needed to get out of there before I killed this woman myself.
“The money’s yours. What of Morgana?” I cut her off. I didn’t want to hear any more. I was beyond sick.
“Hmm…” She tapped her chin. “Last we spoke, she was ranting about how you rode in on your white horse to save my daughter.” She smirked. It turned my stomach that she even referenced Gia as her daughter.
“What else?” I pressed.
“She said she belongs with your son. Whereas, Gia’s too inexperienced for his…let’s say—tastes.” She smirked.
I stiffened at that insinuation. Fuck. We didn’t need that getting into the media. Morgana’s been threatening Gia for a few months and that’s all she’s got? Well, that and now threatening bodily harm.
“She gave me money to help her threaten, or as I’d like to put it…manage Gia. Gia’s very easy to manipulate.” She shook her head in disgust. “Has someone in Paris working with her. Someone on the inside.” She scratched a now bleeding scab on her arm.
I looked to her other arm, noticing the same types of scabs there, too. Junkie. My stomach rolled. I couldn’t stand being there a moment longer.
“Did she mention whom?” I asked.
She fingered her pocket for something. I thought maybe a name she wrote down, but she popped a pill in her mouth. This woman was vile. It was hard to believe such a loving girl was birthed from this jackal.
“No, just that it was someone she’s been paying money to. She didn’t seem too happy about it, either. She said he was getting too close to Gia. She didn’t know if she could still trust ‘em. Though, by the way she spoke of him, I got the feeling they knew each other well. If that helps,” she explained.
I removed the papers I had prepared for her to sign.
“What are these?” she asked.
“Oh, insurance, Ava. This is my safety net. Between tax evasion, fraud, and embezzlement, you will spend the rest of your natural life in jail. If there was a way to charge you with endangering the welfare of a minor or child abuse…you can bet your life I’d have that here, too. However, with the statute of limitations and Gia’s unwillingness to prosecute you, this is my next best option. Take this money and move far away. I don’t give a fuck where. If you go back on our agreement…these papers find their way to the authorities. I will call in every favor to make sure you never see the light of day.” I showed her where to sign. She signed with no conscience and ease. Poor Gia. My heart bled for her. But this was the best gift I could give her and my son. I’d never be able to rest knowing this serpent was close to bringing harm to my family. And with the hold she still had on Gia, I couldn’t trust that Gia had the stomach to do what was best for her.
“This isn’t enough to relocate. What about my lifestyle I’m accustomed to?” She had the gall to ask.
“Take it or leave it. But you’re not getting another dime from me.” I stood up, motioning to leave.
“Wait.” Her hand went up. “I’ll sign.” She grabbed the pen.
“Of course, you will.” I smirked and she glared at me. “The movers will be here tomorrow to expedite your departure. I suggest you figure out where you’re going, Ava.” I closed my attaché case and stood.
“I hope you rot in hell, Gunner,” she spit out and her face twisted in fury. Game over.
“Likewise,” I called back, slamming the door behind me.
Jeffrey was already out of the car with the door open. “Everything okay, boss?” he asked before shutting the door.
“Not yet, but God willing it will be. Let the pilot know I’ll be leaving for Germany in the morning,” I answered when he got in the car.
I quickly dialed Renee. I needed to pass on the information; I was worried about the kids. And finding out who was working with Morgana was a must. Through the years, I’ve seen people resort to Judas-like behavior when money was promised. I wasn’t sure my son was in the proper frame of mind to deal with this kind of betrayal. The two of them had been through enough recently. I’d make that call after speaking with Renee.
“While I’m away, I’d like you to make sure Gia’s mother leaves town. Escort her to the state line if you have to. And forward me where she’s staying. I want anything and everything on her. Got it?” I poured myself a scotch while in route to my next meeting.
Between what happened the night before, followed by that morning’s emotional events, Abel thought I deserved some girl time. I agreed. Our relationship was no longer a question…he explained everything in a way only Abel could…with love in his heart and heaven in every touch.
Last night’s events were a kick in the gut. I wasn’t naive. I got the rock-star thing. They lived hard and partied harder. However, to see him in such a state was devastating. It brought up so many feelings of my past. I resorted to past behaviors. I made it about me…blamed myself for him using drugs. He set me straight. While it nearly gutted me initially after submitting to him, he fully explained what was going on with him. Healthy relationships were about give and take. Ours more so than a normal, vanilla relationship. Without me, there was no Abel. And without Abel, there was no Gia. We worked because of each other, not in spite of each other. However dysfunctional it may seem to an outsider looking in, it was the healthiest relationship I’d had in my life. I got far more than I ever imagined. I walked around most of my life feeling fractured—incomplete. With him, I felt whole…
Cindy barreled in the suite in typical Cindy fashion…brash and talkative. I was having a quiet day…very reflective. I knew I would. And so did Abel. That was why he suggested Cindy and I spend some quality time together. He knew me. He also had band practice for that night’s last show in Paris.
“Chick…” she yelled across the room.
“Shhh, you’re a loud bitch this morning, aren’t you?” I rolled my eyes.
She walked over, smirking as she poured herself some coffee. “Yep, I like to be heard. Now, what kind of fuckery are we getting into today? The caveman said we were to have fun. And fun is what we’re having.” She toasted me with her coffee cup.
“Shopping?” I suggested.
“Sounds good to me. Is Commando coming?” She motioned to the Renee who was on the balcony.
“Yep, unfortunately.” I knocked on the glass-paned door to gain his attention. I watched him pull his walkie
-talkie out, no doubt alerting the driver and whoever else. I shook my head at Cindy. “Can you imagine this toxic cunt is still at it?” I asked.
“We have to take this shit to the streets. Sometimes, you just have to knock a motherfucking bitch’s teeth out.” She laughed, but I knew she was serious.
I’d have to brief her on the toxic bitch’s latest antics. Cindy just may reevaluate her last statement. On the way down the elevator, I briefed Cindy on the psycho’s latest stunt and what we were doing about it. I formally introduced Renee to Cindy. She also refused to call him Renee. We stuck to Commando.
We spoke and caught up on the ride to some shops along the Seine River. Cindy was massaging her temples. “You have a headache? Why do you keep doing that?” I asked.
“Hung-over. I made last night my bitch. And then Woody made me his,” she said and we both laughed. Commando was sitting across from us in the limo. He just raised an eyebrow at her. “I’m not apologizing. You don’t want to hear girl talk…ride up front,” she huffed. I giggled to myself. I missed this between us—friendship.
We shopped for a few hours, ducking in and out of overpriced boutiques. I found a few pieces of lingerie to add to my seduce-Abel collection. He preferred me naked. However, I loved to see his face when I donned something new. Not to mention, it had been a while since I’d worn something I felt pretty in. We grabbed lunch outdoors, relishing the beautiful day in the sun.
“What are the odds they have margarita’s here?” Cindy scrunched her nose up, eyeing the menu.
I pulled out Abel’s credit card from my wallet. “I’m sure this can buy us some Patron if they don’t.” I flashed a smile. Commando sat at the next table, pretending to read the paper, looked up at me. “Your mouth…close that shit.” Damn. I wasn’t asking for permission.
“That’s what I’m talking about. That right there.” She pointed at me. “You’re back, chick.” She beamed at me.
“I never left…just kinda dormant for a while,” I explained. “Sometimes the meds make me quiet. I hate that about them.” Her face fell. I guess she forgot. “It’s fine Cin.” I reached across the table, grabbing her hand.
“Oh, doll. That was the worst day of my life. Bible.” She crossed her heart with her fingers. “I’m sorry for bringing it up.” She frowned.
“No worries. I’m stronger for it. Sounds fucked-up, right? ‘Cause it is, but it’s how I feel. This is a new slate. The new, improved me…stronger me. A toast,” I offered and she sighed. I didn’t want the day to be ruined by my past. I ordered a pitcher of Patron margaritas and I made a toast. “Here’s to good friends, good liquor, and good boobs.” We clicked our glasses.
“Absolutely,” she cheered.
We spent the remainder of the afternoon recollecting old stories that we never got tired of. I really needed it that day.
It didn’t take very long for the paparazzi to find us. I was relatively unknown in Paris. However, after the other night, we caused quite a stir, voyaging around like regular tourists. Now they were out for blood.
“Do you deal with this shit everywhere you and Wood go?” I asked.
“I think all the boys do to a certain degree. But when you’re noted as a rock-star’s girlfriend, they get crazier. You’re the lead singer of Lethal Abel’s girlfriend. Their curiosity is natural. He’s a megastar, comes from old money, and too hot for his own good. Woody’s a bit more reclusive,” she explained, pouring another glass for herself.
“I guess you’re right,” I managed. It still took some getting used to.
Commando was then standing, blocking a camera lens as we finished lunch.
“Oh, look, there’s Chance,” I said to Cindy and then waved him over. He would’ve walked right by, I was sure of it.
He kissed us on both cheeks. “Fancy seeing you on the outside, Gia. How’d that come to be?” he asked, snickering. Abel hated when he talked like that. Of course, Chance was spot on.
“I needed a girls’ day,” I retorted.
“And you didn’t invite moi?” He feigned offense.
“Oh, please. I didn’t even know where you were. And neither did Abel. I asked just so you know,” I shot back at him. “Where were you anyway? Getting lucky, I hope?” I teased.
“Do tell, Chance. Nothing like a little M/M action.” Cindy leaned in.
“I wish,” he sighed. “Maybe if the alpha loosens the reins a bit, I’ll get lucky before we leave Paris. Not likely, though.” He exhaled.
Cindy patted his back, lamenting with him. I thought about his statement. I knew Abel had enough of his squirreling around. At least that’s how he put it. He’d be thrilled to hear he was getting laid. His phone vibrated across the tabletop. Cindy and I leaned forward to see who was persistently calling, but he scooped it off the table and put it in his pocket.
“HA!” Cindy shouted. “That’s so shady. Right there. That was shady as fuck,” she continued and I had to agree.
“Got to run, baby girls.” He she-she air kissed us and took off.
I did notice Commando was oddly alerted by Chance’s arrival and departure. Call me paranoid, or as I’d like to call it…hyper-aware…but something just didn’t jive lately with Chance. He wasn’t himself. Then again, Abel wasn’t being very nice to him, either. He’s been exceptionally short with him.
“Did you guys go to the Le Chic boutique?” he inquired.
“No, where’s that?” we both asked.
“Just up the street. Great one-of-a-kind, rock and roll, vintage chic. I know a friend of a friend that knows the owner,” he said before darting off.
“Huh?” Cindy mumbled, downing the rest of her drink. “He should be a personal shopper or stylist. His talent is wasted being a personal assistant,” she slurred. She was right. He was a treasure trove of style-isms.
“Let’s go check out that store, Le Chic,” I said, motioning for the waiter. We both ate and drank enough. Some retail therapy would sober us up.
We decided to walk the two blocks as Commando eyed the paps with a glint of bring it, fuckers. They backed off a bit and our car followed close behind.
The street leading up to the boutique was lined with Japanese Cherry trees and gas lamps giving it a pleasant park-like touch. It was truly beautiful. I was so happy to be sharing that experience with my best friend.
“There it is.” She pointed. A burgundy and gold awning held the name Le Chic. It was very chic and very ritzy looking. It was a dark and somber looking store. She grabbed my arm and pulled me into the store quickly.
“What?” I snapped.
“They’re playing Oasis’ ‘Wonderwall.’ You know I love this song.” She twirled around singing.
I wasn’t even paying attention. I was super focused on the chick behind the counter with a face full of piercings. Fuck.
“Way to be discreet, Gia.” She elbowed me.
“Fuck off, will you.” Sheesh she was annoying. I could shop and people watch—right?
The walls were lined with lame gold gauze curtains. Displays hung from the ceiling instead of display stands. Huh. A very modern touch for a vintage store. But who was I to say anything? I certainly wasn’t a decorating phenomenon.
“Yell if you need anything.” The raven-haired pierced beauty yelled as a cigarette hung from her mouth.
“You speak English?” I asked, shocked by her cadence.
“Obviously,” she shot back, rolling her eyes. “I’m from New York.” She flicked her ash and blew out smoke rings from her mouth.
“Bitch,” Cindy murmured as I shot her a death glare.
I didn’t need her big mouth getting us kicked out. Especially since Chance knew the owner. My eyes moved to the Vivienne Westwood dress that hung tauntingly in front of me. I’ve always wanted to own something by her—anything. It didn’t scream rock and roll. However, it held a sexy, old-Hollywood vibe. Abel would love it. I was still getting to know his taste and surprised by it most of the time. He was a walking contradiction. I’d have to rememb
er to kiss the hell out of Chance for once again pointing me in the right direction with regards to fashion. He knew the broody alpha well.
“I’d like to try on that dress there.” I pointed to the display above. “That’s Vivienne Westwood, right?” I asked.
“The one and only,” she answered snidely. I chalked it up as a typical New Yorker. They had a brash way about them. I’m sure Cindy and I didn’t come across as a pushover or sweet, either.
“I’ll set up a dressing room for you. You can have a seat over there until its ready.” She pointed to a cozy couch that sat in front of the dressing rooms. While Cindy perused the sale rack, I had a seat.
“Coffee, tea, or water?” another sales girl asked.
“No, thanks. I’m fine,” I answered the pixie-haired girl. I picked up a copy of Rolling Stone magazine that sat in front of me. As I thumbed through purposelessly, my eyes fell upon a page filled with pictures of Abel and Morgana. I quickly closed the magazine, looking for the date of publication. The sticker printed read a year ago. My heart didn’t care if it was a decade ago. The visual provided a nice kick to my gut. The knowing grin she wore for the cameras made me sicker. I studied the pictures carefully, trying to see if he looked happy. There wasn’t a smile on his face. However, he held her hand. That twisted me to no end. Call me immature, but the thought of him touching any part of her made me furious.
“Why the face?” Cindy walked over and I held up the magazine. “Give me that.” She snapped it out of my hand. “Why torment yourself. You knew he had a past. This isn’t something he hid. You also knew that nasty-ass-skank was part of it,” she scolded me. She was right, of course, but tell that to my heart and ego that just took a hit.
“That nasty-ass-skank is a dear friend of mine,” New Yorker snarled, rolling her fake eyelashes. She placed my dress on the hook in the first dressing room. Cindy and I were shell-shocked by her admission. I didn’t know what to say other than wanting to kill Chance for suggesting this boutique.
Thinking quickly on my feet, I rose from my seat and moved toward the dressing room. “Well, I’m sorry to hear that. My condolences. I’ll let you know if I need anything else. Thanks.” I closed the curtain in her face. Fuck her. I refuse to let anyone make me feel inferior. Especially in the face of Morgana, the toxic cunt. It caused Cindy to laugh loudly, which made my smile bigger.
Forgiving Gia (Rocker Series Book 2) Page 13
