Money (The Keatyn Chronicles Book 10)

by Jillian Dodd

  Can you even imagine how beautiful a Knox—Keatyn spawn would be?

  With Knox and Keatyn set to be on location together over the next few months, I predict that the two will work out their issues, that Keatyn will break her engagement, and Knox and Jennifer Edwards’ fledgling relationship will fail.

  Then the question will become—when will Knox and Keatyn get married?

  And can I pretty please get an invitation?

  P.S. I take back my earlier statement. I’d totally brave the halls of Captive Films if it meant I could get knocked up by Knox freaking Daniels or one of the Johnson brothers.

  After reading it, I look at Jennifer. “What else did the article get right, besides the part about Dallas?”

  “Knox dumped me.”

  “Sugar,” Knox says, tilting his head at her.

  She flips him off.

  Then smiles at him.

  “We made a mutual decision to be friends since we are going to be working together,” Knox says, sounding like he’s reading from an official press release.

  Jennifer rolls her eyes. “So what do you guys think? Is Keatyn just bloated? I mean, we all have our days. It’s called being a woman. Or do you think she might really be pregnant?”

  We all give her the same blank look, which makes us appear totally guilty.

  “No shit? Wait a second. That fundraiser we got invited to. Are she and Aiden getting married?!” she screeches.

  “Shh!” Knox covers her mouth with his hand just as Vanessa and my brother burst through the door.

  “The more the merrier,” I say sarcastically.

  “Did you see this?” Vanessa asks, tossing the paper on my desk. “Is it true? Did you knock up the skank?”

  “I’m not sure she qualifies as a skank,” I defend.

  “She offered to have a threesome with Ariela ten seconds after she met her. What would you call her?”

  “Adventurous?” Dallas offers, causing everyone else to laugh. But then he continues. “Vanessa, why don’t you and I go to my office and discuss the situation since there are numerous legal issues involved.”

  “Fine,” she says with a huff, then points at me. “Don’t think you’re off the hook for not telling me about this.”

  “I just found out last night myself!”

  “Whatever,” she says, marching off.

  “Looks like it’s been a busy morning here,” Dawson says, sitting on the sofa after pouring himself coffee.

  “Where have you been?”

  “The girls have their school visit today. I told you I’d be late.”

  “Shit, I forgot.”

  “Sounds like you have a lot going on. I’m just praying no one calls in tears begging to leave. What can I say? I kinda like it here.”

  “You and Vanessa are getting down and dirty,” Knox says. “I like it. Alright, people. I’m off. Got a call time in twenty.”

  “Jennifer, you have a wardrobe fitting today, don’t you?” Tyler asks. “If you’d like, I’ll escort you down.”

  “As long as you escort me by some donuts and get me a cup of your amazing coffee on the way,” she says, taking his arm and letting him lead her out of the room while Tyler beams.

  Dawson moves from the couch to a chair in front of my desk.

  “How are you doing?” he asks sincerely. “I remember how shocked I was when Whitney told me she was pregnant. At first, I didn’t believe her.”

  “I didn’t believe Shelby either. But I watched her pee on a stick. Watched the line turn pink. She’s definitely pregnant. Just don’t know for sure if it’s mine, but I’m pretty sure that it is.”

  “Well, then, congrats, bro. Having children is a wondrous thing.”

  “I’m getting Shelby an apartment. Do you think that’s stupid of me, not knowing for sure?”

  “No, I don’t. If she is the mother of your child, you want to treat her with respect, Riley.”

  “And if she’s not?”

  “Then you say goodbye and wish her the best.”

  I smile. “Thanks. I needed to hear that.”

  Asher Vineyards — Sonoma County

  ARIELA

  I’m outside checking the progress on the brick path Keatyn wanted installed when I notice a black town car pull up to the house.

  Kyle gets out of the car and waves, so I go down to greet him.

  “Asher Vineyards, huh? This looks like a pretty swanky place,” he says, giving me a kiss on the cheek. “So is this really the land Keatyn gave to Aiden at the end of the movie?”

  “Yes, they actually filmed that scene here.”

  “Can I see the spot where they stood?”

  “Sure, come on. We can drop your bags off in one of the guest houses on the way.”

  “There’s more than one guest house?”

  “There are four on this property here. You’ll be staying in one with me.”

  He gives me a devilish grin. “Are we sharing a bed?”

  “No.”

  “Oh, I get it. You’ll pretend you’re sleep walking and accidentally fall on my dick.”

  I laugh. “I don’t think so. But the other guest houses are being prepped for the family and friends who will be staying on site.”

  As we walk toward one of the little casitas, he says, “This looks like a normal house. I thought guest houses were supposed to be small.”

  “These aren’t. Each one is about fifteen hundred square feet and feature two bedroom suites along with a small kitchen, living, and dining room. The one across the way there is larger and has three bedrooms.” We drop his bags off and then continue to the spot.

  “Is that an altar? I thought the party was a fundraiser.”

  “It is,” I say carefully. “But there’s going to be a wedding at it.”

  “Keatyn and Aiden got engaged recently,” he says.

  “Yes, they did. But the wedding is a vow renewal for Maggie and Logan.”

  “Logan was Aiden’s best friend, played lacrosse, and was the Bad Prince in the school play, right?” he asks, citing what he knows from the movie.

  “Yes, he and Maggie—”

  “Dance team. Funny as shit. She and Logan got back together on the play stage,” he interrupts.

  I narrow my eyes at him.

  He rolls his. “Fine. I went and saw the movie again and took notes. I figured I’d need to know who all the players are. So Logan and Maggie are married and they want to renew their vows and you have to plan not only a fundraiser but a wedding, too?”

  “Exactly.”

  “Sweet. So what do you want me to do?”

  I hand him a notebook filled with lists. “Start at the top and work your way down. Make sure everything is getting done. If it’s not, come find me.”

  He leans in close to me. “Oh, don’t worry, tonight, I’ll come find you. Especially now that I know where you’re sleeping.”

  “I lock my door,” I tease.

  “Won’t matter. You’ll be coming to me.”

  Vanessa’s Estate - Holmby Hills

  VANESSA

  I’m just pulling into my driveway when I get an unexpected call from Bam’s mother.

  “Vanessa, darling. How good it is to hear your voice.”

  “Thank you. Are you and Mr. Martinez well?”

  “That is why I’m phoning you. My beloved husband is on death’s doorstep.”

  “Oh, I’m so sorry. When did he become ill?”

  “The doctors found cancer just a few months ago. It is aggressive and too advanced to do much other than keep him comfortable until he passes.”

  “Is there anything I can do for you?”

  “Actually, there is. You and Juan must reconcile immediately.”

  “He’s dating some model.”

  “They broke up.”

  “They did have quite an age difference,” I say, trying my best to keep the snark out of my voice.

  As in she was barely eighteen when he met her.

  “You are a fine woma
n, Vanessa. Although, I didn’t understand your need to work, I still respected it. But I think it’s time that you and Juan settle down. Have a family.”

  “That will be kind of difficult since we got divorced,” I reply flatly.

  “I hear your tone, Vanessa. I know it well. I am not just an old woman pining for grandchildren. My son has changed his ways, as well. Please get in touch with him.”

  “With all due respect, Bam didn’t love me enough not to cheat on me. And you barely tolerated my existence.”

  “Yes, well, it is difficult for any woman to compete with the love a mother has for her son. In retrospect, I may have been a little hard on you. For that I apologize.”

  “Thank you.”

  “Perfect. Now you will get back together and have children. It is time.”

  The way she says it is very commanding, like she can just wish it, and it will happen.

  “When we lost our child, your son was in the company of another woman and didn’t seem to care much. I can’t be married to someone like that.”

  “He’s changed. His father’s illness has made him see the error of his ways. He has grown as a man.”

  “So did he break up with the bimbo or did she break up with him?”

  There is a short lapse of silence. “She is the one who ended the relationship.”

  “So he really hasn’t learned all that much.”

  “He regrets losing you.”

  “With all due respect, I strongly disagree.”

  “Bam must grow up and take over his father’s business. He is ready for the task. He will be giving up his polo career for the good of the family. That should give you an idea of the level of his sincerity and growth.”

  “I wish you all the best and will say a prayer for your husband. Thank you for calling, but I must go now.”

  I quickly hang up and walk into my house, shocked at the contrast of how it looks now compared to how it looked this morning.

  It looks empty. Barren.

  Like me.

  But as I wander around, I start to see what Peyton saw. A house with stunning architectural details and character and, with all the formal furniture moved out, it already feels more like home than it ever has.

  I nod my head, my mind and my heart coming together with one thought. I’m going to have a child—whether through adoption or surrogacy, it’s time for me to pursue my options.

  Riley’s Penthouse - L.A.

  RILEY

  I get a group text from Dallas that includes Keatyn.

  Dallas: Front Door wants a face-to-face meeting with the three of us to hammer out the final details. I know you are filming, Keatyn, but could you meet tonight after?

  Keatyn: We’re wrapping up now, so maybe 9?

  Me: Are you sure you’re up for that? You’ve been going all day.

  Keatyn: I need food more than sleep right now. Can we have a late dinner?

  Dallas: I’ll get us a private dining room at the usual place. See you soon.

  I send Ariela a quick text to let her know I have a late business meeting and that I’ll call her after, and then I head to the restaurant. When I get off the elevator in the lobby, Shelby is just walking in the building.

  “What are you doing here?”

  “I needed to see you. You haven’t called me since you said you’d find me a place to live.”

  “My assistant is working on it.”

  She frowns then looks down at the floor, her shoulders shaking.

  “Why are you crying?” I ask.

  “My roommate kicked me out of the apartment. She said if I can’t pay my rent, I have to go. I have nowhere to go, Riley.”

  “I said I’d cover your rent. How much do you need?”

  “It doesn’t matter now. She already has someone new moving in. My stuff is all in my car. I don’t know what to do. I’ve been poor before but never homeless. I can sleep in my car, but I need somewhere safe to park. Could I at least park here where it’s safe?”

  I close my eyes tightly, knowing I have no option. I put my arm around her and walk her to the elevator. “Come on. I’ll take you upstairs. You can stay with me until Tyler finds you a new place.”

  She sobs into my chest. “Thank you. Thank you. I’m sorry I’m bothering you. I’m so embarrassed.”

  I hug her. I’d be a dick if I didn’t offer her some comfort. “Why are you embarrassed?”

  “For not having enough money to pay my rent. I never should have gone to those red carpet events with you. I was just so excited. Opportunities like that don’t often happen to a girl like me.”

  “You’re a sweet girl, Shelby. I’ve been fortunate that I’ve never had to worry about being able to pay my rent, but I imagine it’s not pleasant.”

  “It’s not.”

  “I’ll have the valet park your car and bring up a few things that you might need for tonight. I have to go to a business meeting. I’m due there in ten minutes.” I escort her to the guest bedroom. “Make yourself comfortable.”

  I expect her to say something about sleeping in my room, but she doesn’t, and that makes me feel better. I know this isn’t just a ploy to get with me.

  “Do you have anything to eat here?” she asks timidly.

  I grab some money out of my wallet and toss it on the coffee table. “There’s a bunch of delivery menus in the drawer next to the fridge. Just give them my name, they should have the address.”

  “You eat take out a lot?” she asks.

  “Sure. Why?”

  “I just figured you went to fancy dinners every night.”

  “Hardly,” I say with a chuckle. “I’ll be back soon.”

  When I get to the meeting, Keatyn greets me with a hug.

  I don’t usually hug her back, but tonight I do.

  “What was that for?” she asks.

  “Shelby showed up at my place because she got kicked out of her apartment. I’m letting her stay with me until Tyler finds her somewhere to live.”

  “Why did she get kicked out?”

  “Because she didn’t have the money for rent.”

  “Riley, you’re a good judge of character. How are you feeling about this girl?”

  “She thought she was going to have to sleep in her car tonight. She didn’t even ask to stay with me, just wanted a safe place to park and wondered if she could park in my garage.”

  “That’s sad. So is she sleeping with you tonight?”

  “I showed her the guest room and told her to put her stuff in there. She didn’t argue.”

  “How’s Tyler coming on the apartment search?”

  “Honestly, I have no idea. Dallas and I spent most of the day going over all the details in this contract, then I stayed late to catch up on email.”

  “Call him,” she says as a waiter brings her a glass of sparkling water and asks what I would like. I order a bottle of wine for the table then call Tyler.

  After getting an update, I tell Keatyn, “He says the only place he’s been able to find is a furnished unit in my building. I’m not sure I want her that close.”

  “You could always put her up at a hotel for the month. She’d probably enjoy it.”

  “Hmm. That’s a good idea. Then if it is my baby, I’ll buy her something permanent. I’ll text Tyler and tell him to book a bungalow. It will be like a vacation for her.”

  “Is she still working?”

  “Yeah, but she said she’s been sick a lot.”

  “But you said that she works at a nightclub. Has she had morning sickness all day?”

  “I don’t know. Do you think she’s lying? She seemed so upset about the apartment. Hell, I don’t know what to do or think.”

  “I’d move her into a bungalow first thing in the morning,” Keatyn says.

  Dallas slaps me on the back, letting me know that he’s arrived. He has the studio attorney and three other executives with him. Everyone exchanges pleasantries, and we get down to business.

  The negotiations go smoothly on mos
t points until the Captive Films name comes up.

  “I’m hesitant to part with Captive,” Keatyn says. “We’ve worked hard to develop the brand, and it’s my understanding you are wanting just our assets.”

  “The brand is part of what we want to acquire,” an executive for the other side says.

  “And what about The Keatyn Chronicles trilogy? It’s not addressed in the contract. When you put this deal together, the movie hadn’t released yet. So we either pull it from the deal, or you adjust the value accordingly.”

  “Oh, I don’t know about that,” the attorney starts to say.

  Keatyn looks the CEO straight in the eye. “Donny, you know what the box office numbers have been. And I know you know that industry experts are predicting the video and on-demand sales will be some of the best in movie history.”

  By the time we finally come to an agreement, it’s close to midnight.

  “That was grueling,” Keatyn states, echoing my thoughts.

  “I thought it was exhilarating,” Dallas counters. “And it went amazingly well. We got almost everything we wanted. I think their CEO was starstruck. When you whipped out your smile on him, I thought he might pass out.”

  Keatyn laughs. “Don’t be silly. I’m still on the fence about the name, though. I don’t think I can give it up.”

  “I thought you wanted to move on?”

  “I do. I didn’t think I’d be able to sell the rights to the trilogy, but what they offered was crazy high. We can’t refuse that. And it’s not like I can’t watch it if I’m feeling nostalgic, right?”

  “Plus, you’re living your own fairytale, isn’t that what you always say?” Dallas encourages.

  She turns to me. “Riley, what do you think about the name?”

  “I’m okay with it going. We’ll come up with something new. Dallas has some good ideas.”