The Heart Series: Complete Boxed Set (85 page)

“Izzy, over here.” Micha waved. They were already eating breakfast. We made our way over to the table as they all looked on confused.

“Ooh, sneaky sleepover, looks like you’ve been at it all night. Did you even get any sleep?” she teased.

“I’ll just go get the coffee.” Joel wandered off looking embarrassed. I needed to get this over with before he came back.

“Long story short, over three weeks ago, I overheard Chantel telling her friends in the toilet that she was going all out to get Joel and push me out of the picture.”

“No fucking way,” Micha yelled, as all heads turned our way.

“Sheesh, could you say it any louder,” I whisper yelled.

“Sorry, but fucking hell.”

“I know and I’m not even at the worst part yet.”

“There’s more?” Corinne exclaimed.

“Yeah, she tried it on with Joel last night, tried to coerce him into a threesome with her and her friend, and when he declined, she forced herself onto him, with her friend on standby to take a picture. She sent it to me, but I didn’t see it because I was fast asleep. Joel drove fours to explain. He was almost frantic when he got here, that I wouldn’t believe him, but I explained about the conversation I’d overheard but I would have believed him anyway. I just had a bad feeling when I met her. She was so dismissive, speaking down to me. I could tell she had an agenda.”

“How long have you kept that quiet, Iz? That must have been hard keeping that to yourself,” Corinne asked, looking concerned.

“I ended up telling Elijah. He kept monitoring the situation. He called her Vamp Tramp. He’s been a good shoulder to lean on when I felt like tumbling down over and over. I couldn’t have got through these last few weeks without him.” I really couldn’t have, he was my rock.

“I wish you could have told us.” Corinne frowned.

“Hey,” I grabbed her hand and smiled. I didn’t want to burden you with my problems. You had just got things sorted with Josh. I didn’t want to tell you all because then it would be real, and I had to believe that something like that couldn’t happen no matter how much Chantel willed it. I never thought she’d force herself on him and try to blackmail though. I didn’t think she would sink that low.”

“You’ll be amazed how low people will go for what they want,” Micha added bitterly.

“Yeah.” I sighed. I knew that all too well now.

“Oh here’s Joel,” Corinne warned.

He walked back over with two coffees in his hand and smiled sitting down.

“Are you not getting anything else?” I asked, concerned by his lack of appetite.

“I don’t feel up to anything.”

“Now you have me worried.” He was always hungry, that was a fact.

“I just—”

“You know this is not your fault, Joel. You can’t help it that psycho bitch promoter had her eyes on you as being not only her meal ticket but boyfriend too.”

He frowned. “I know, but how could I be oblivious to it all?”

“Because some bitches are good at slowly spinning their web. You just thought she was doing her job. We all know you only have eyes for Izzy. No one would ever doubt that.” Corinne smiled reassuringly.

“It’s true, I only have eyes for you.” He brushed his lips up against my forehead and sighed.

“Do you know what would really make me happy?”

“What, tell me?” he urged.

“You going over there and plating up a huge breakfast for yourself. You have a four hour journey home and then all the shit to deal with when you get there. I don’t want to be worried about you. Oh and plate me one up too, I think I deserve it. She isn’t going to ruin our short time together and right now I need stodgy food.”

He grinned at my words. “Well, when you put it like that I can feel my appetite coming back already.”

“It’s business as usual then, she no longer exists. But get me scrambled instead of fried egg, please.”

“I am on it.” He jumped up from his seat and headed over to the breakfast area.

“Are you really okay, Iz?” Corinne asked again.

“Not really, I’m worried about the lies she’ll spread. The first thing he needs to do is change the password on the Facebook page so she doesn’t upload anything. As of right now, I don’t even know the depths she will go.” I dreaded to think what she would do next.

“Yeah, you don’t want that blowing up over Facebook.” Corinne pulled a face, mirroring my exact sentiments.

I quickly texted Lee. He’d been the one managing the Facebook page before Chantel took over. I asked if he still had the logins, he replied with a confused yes. I told him to change the password so Chantel had no more access. Within minutes, he texted back saying he’d done so. That’s what I loved about Lee, he didn’t question things, just did it. Joel would fill him in later. I hated to let him have to go back and handle it on his own, but I still had a week to go and I couldn’t penalise myself by leaving, even though I knew Joel wouldn’t let me.

Joel came back with two heaped plates, and we chatted and laughed as we tried in the best way to act normal. He seemed a little brighter and left me a couple of hours later with a plan after we discussed what would happen with the band. He was going to call a band meeting and discuss the impact of what Chantel’s actions had on the band. I knew all the guys would have his back and would go along with him no matter what the decision. One of the possible outcomes was that Joel said he would leave and they would then bring in a new singer as a replacement, but I knew not for one second would any of the guys even consider that option. The main issue was to try to do as much damage control incase Chantel became vindictive and started slandering Joel’s name. He was the innocent party, but Chantel was that vindictive. We had to be prepared for the worst, one being her leaking the photo and pretending that there was actually something between her and Joel. The wait was killing me, but all the worrying in the world would not help.

I had just finished my performance and taken a shower. Corinne and Micha asked me out to drinks, but I was not in the mood. I just wanted to sleep. Joel had kept me updated on what was happening. They had taken the Facebook page offline and Lee had changed the password and removed Chantel as an admin so she no longer had access. They had cancelled the two gigs they had over the next coming weeks and everyone agreed that Joel was not leaving the band. They would start over again with a new name if they had to and that made me smile. They were so fearlessly protective of him. So for now they were on a well-deserved break until the dust settled and then they would work out what to do next.

It had been a hard day and was just about ready to curl up with my Kindle when a unknown number flashed on my screen. I was in two minds not to answer it, but I clicked the answer button anyway.

“Hello.”

“Oh I’m surprised you answered. I was looking forward to leaving you a nice little voice message,” Chantel’s evil little voice replied.

“Whatever you have to say, Chantel, I’m not interested.” I was just about ready to hang up.

“So you saw the picture then,” she asked tauntingly.

“No.”

“What?” she shrieked. “Oh don’t worry, I’ll resend it. Wouldn’t want you to miss this.”

“Seriously, don’t bother. I won’t believe your lies anyway.”

“So do you know Joel kissed me? It was inevitable really, we’ve had great chemistry from the start. These long distance relationships never last, if the guy isn’t entertained, he loses interest and looks elsewhere. Which is true in Joel’s case. I was only too happy to fill your spot.” I could almost see her smirking in delight.

“Listen here, you deluded bitch. I heard it all, the conversation in the bathroom of how you were going to make a play for Joel. I recorded it all. I have it on my phone. I knew what your plan was all along. I guess desperate times call for desperate measures when Joel still didn’t fall for your charm despite your best efforts. So you had to take it to the next level and lunge at him and then have your friend take a picture to then blackmail him. See what you don’t know is what we went through to get here. Joel loves me with all his heart and some little vindictive tramp is not going to make me think differently. So don’t even think about posting that photo anywhere because I will upload the voice recording file showing you to be a complete pathetic bitch who tries to steal other people’s fiancés. So are we clear? And don’t ever think of ringing me again or I will file a harassment case with the police. Now do me a favour and fuck off.” I hit the end call button,  shaking so hard, but I was glad I held my nerve so it didn’t show in my voice. I was raging and I needed to vent, but I didn’t want to worry Joel. He’d enough to contend with. I was just going to have to hope my actions didn’t bring on any more consequences.

The final performance was over. My eyes filled up as we took our final bow on stage before the curtain closed leaving us hugging each other in tears that our time had come to an end. The hotel was hosting an after party, which we were all to dress up. We all headed back to our changing rooms as we didn’t have long to get ready.

An hour later, we walked into the hall. It was all decked out with free food and more importantly alcohol, which everyone descended on. We stood in groups laughing and chatting away about our time together.

“I can’t believe it’s over. What are we going to do with ourselves?” Corinne asked, frowning.

“I’m looking at sleeping for the next month,” Josh quipped. We all laughed, completely agreeing. Sleep was so welcomed right now. I also couldn’t wait to get back to my Kindle. I had some pre-orders I was frantically waiting on that were being released within the next week.

“I’m going to miss it so much,” Corinne groaned, hugging Josh harder.

“What is happening with you guys?” Josh lived in Sunderland and Corinne lived in Chester. It was a fair few hours travelling for them both.

“Oh we’ll make it work. I can come down one weekend and Corinne will come up another.” He kissed her hair lovingly.

“Aww, you two make such a great couple. It’s hard to think that you used to be such a man whore,” Micha teased.

Corinne glared and Josh chuckled. “Excuse me, reformed man whore.” He winked and we all laughed. They did make such a cute couple.

“So did Tony say when his next production would be and do we know what?” Corinne asked anxiously.

“No, I think it will be towards the end of the year. He said would start auditions and then the tour would be spring next year,” Micha added.

“Oh god, I hope we can talk our way into this next one. I already have some auditions lined up next week. Hope I’m lucky.” Corinne grinned.

“Already?” I asked. I was ready for this holiday that Joel had promised me. I was more than ready to spend time with him twenty-fou seven, relaxing on the beach with Ruby beside me.

“Yeah, well you’ve got to get back in the game. It’s dog eat dog and I’m ready for my next adventure.”

“I’m having a holiday first.” That was for certain.

“Oh me too,” Micha agreed.

We had more than earned it.

“What time do we have to be out of our rooms tomorrow?” I asked, thinking of all the packing I had to do.

“Ten in the morning.” We all groaned in unison.

“That’s enough talk of packing and leaving. Tonight’s our party and we deserve it, so here grab a glass.” Josh handed them out one by one. “And let’s celebrate what’s been an amazing tour. Hopefully there’s more to come and we’ll see each other.”

“I second that,” I added.

“I third that.” Micha grinned

“We’ll always be together,” Corinne sang.

“Err mixing your musicals up there. Fuck, I was born to play Sandy. I need to get in that audition next month,” Micha pondered.

“Message me the audition dates, will you, Micha? I’d make a good Rizzo.” She winked and we laughed. Yep her bark was definitely worse than her bite, it was the perfect role for her.

“Enough talk about auditioning, let’s get drunk,” Josh screamed and everyone cheered. Out of our rooms by ten, yeah righto.

* * *

“I can’t believe this is goodbye,” Corinne whimpered, beginning to cry.

“But we’ll FaceTime and message and text each other,” Micha soothed.

“I know but it’s not the same, but I promise we’ll all keep in touch.”

“You better had, come here.” She pulled us both into a hug. All you could hear was sniffling as we squeezed the life out of each other before pulling back and drying our eyes.

“What time is your train due in?” I asked both of them.

“Shit, mine’s in five minutes. Gotta go, love you both. Will text you later on.” Corinne hugged us hard and then legged it over the bridge with her case bumping along behind her.

“Mine’s due in twenty. I guess I’d better make it over to the platform. I need to grab a coffee on the way, my head is pounding,” Micha groaned.

“I’m not surprised with all those shots last night.”

“Yeah, that wasn’t a good idea, especially with the early check out.”

“You live and you learn.” I chuckled.

“Don’t you just. Keep us posted on the Joel situation. If you need any bodyguards to help slap a bitch, then we are your ladies.”

“Thankfully we’ve heard nothing since, but it’s always there at the back of my mind. I just can’t wait to go on holiday and escape it all.”

“We’ve definitely earned it. Oh god, I really had better go. I need some paracetamol too. I’m planning to sleep on the train. Just hope I don’t miss my stop.” She laughed pulling a face.

“Set the alarm on your phone to wake you up fifteen minutes before.”

“What am I going to do without you? So wise.” She winked and hugged me hard before she scurried off. She always was a hundred miles an hour. I grabbed a coffee and a doughnut making my way over to the platform, more than ready to head home.

* * *

“Izzy.”

A smile crept over my face, I would know that voice anywhere. I turned to find Joel at the platform gate. I squealed and ran over leaping into his arms.

“You are finally home.”

“Yep.” I giggled between kisses as lots of amused onlookers watched us make out on the platform.

“Errm, Joel, as much as I am loving all these kisses, can you wait till we get somewhere more private?”

“I don’t think that’s possible. We might have to do it right here.”

“Joel.” I batted him playfully and he chuckled before putting me down. He grabbed my suitcase off the ground, and we headed out of the station ready to catch the tube home.

Pushing open the front door, I smiled walking into my home. It felt good to be back, even better when Ruby bounded over with a welcome slobbery kiss.

“I think she’s missed you.” Joel smirked.

“I’ve missed you all so much.” I hugged her hard, trying to avoid being licked to death but it was pointless. Eventually she settled down, but I knew she wouldn’t leave my side for the next few days.

Joel made a round of coffees as I got myself comfortable on the sofa with Ruby lying across me.

“Someone’s comfortable,” Joel remarked, handing me the mug.

“Yeah, she’s making sure I don’t leave again.”

“We’ll have to soon because I want you all to myself.” He grinned and a shiver of excitement ran through me at just the very thought.

“Well, give me time to get some caffeine into my system as I need all the energy boost I can get.” I was completely drained.

“Drink up because my patience is wearing thin. I want you stripped and that naked body wrapped around mine in ten minutes.”

I threw back the coffee and burned my tongue.

Son of a bitch.

But I knew what was ahead was so worth it.

* * *

“Fuck, Izzy.”

“Oh god, Joel.” My eyes rolled back as he thrusted hard into me, taking my breath away each time with every movement.

“I-oh-my-god.”

“Iz-fuck-Iz.”

I laughed as I clenched him hard. I was close so damn close. I gripped his back tight finally letting myself be taken over by the orgasm that surged through my body.

Joel flopped down on top of me, his head between my breasts as he panted heavily. I think I had well and truly exhausted him.

“I swear you take my breath away every time.”

“That’s good to hear.” I giggled.
“I’ve missed you in our bed,” he said, looking somber.

“I’m back now.” I stroked his face soothingly.

“And don’t I know it.”

“When did you book the holiday again?” I was so ready to get away from it all.

“Next week. I wanted to give you time to get home and get settled before we left. I’m pretty sure your mum and Elijah will be chomping at the bit to spend time with you.

“Does my mum know I’m home?” I asked, almost panicking thinking she could turn up at the front door at any moment.

“I told her tomorrow, Elijah too, today I wanted you all to myself.” He grinned.

“Sneaky.” I liked it.

“I need it to be just you and me. This time away has been hard and with all this bullshit that has gone on lately, I wanted you to know how much I’ve missed you.”

“Has she been back in touch?” I asked, concerned she was still causing trouble.

He snorted. “No, thank god. I was expecting her too. Maybe she realized her little black mail act didn’t work.”

“Hmmm maybe.” I kept the rest to myself. “So is the band back up and running then?”

He sighed.  “No, we all agreed we needed time off. Lee’s girlfriend is almost ready to drop with their first baby, and we all need a break. It’s not enjoyable any more. It’s exhausting on top of our full time jobs. So we all agreed to three months off from doing gigs, but we would still have the odd practice and lyric session.”

“Well, that sounds good. You need a break.”

“We both need a break. Next week, alone with you, is just what I need.”

“I know what you mean.” I sighed, snuggling down into his chest. This was exactly where I needed to be.

“Oh my god, I forget how beautiful this place is.” My eyes took in the quaint white cottage as I smiled. This had become our holiday home and each time it took my breath away.

“It’s our special place. I can’t wait to spend the week with you.”

Ruby barked looking annoyed Joel had left her out.

“Oh and you too, Rubes, can’t forget both my girls.”

She wagged her tail and looked more than eager for Joel to give her a good ear tickle in apology.

“If we quickly get unloaded and unpacked, then we can head for the beach and enjoy the rest of this lovely day,” I suggested.

“Sounds like a plan.”

Joel grabbed the suitcases, and I carried a box of food inside. It didn’t take us long to make the place our own before we changed and headed for the beach ready for a relaxing afternoon.

Ruby soaked up the sun running and catching Frisbees as I made my way through my long list in search of a good book on my Kindle. I was left in peace for a while before I flinched as Joel playfully flicked ice-cold water at my bikini-clad body. I shrieked in horror. He flopped down beside me and Ruby gave him a sad look. I was pretty sure she would bound around all day if she could.

“Come here, Rubes, it’s nap time.” He coaxed her over with some dog treats that she happily gobbled up before lying down beside us. We linked hands and smiled as the warm sun soaked into our skin. This was what I needed, for the first time in a long while I was in complete bliss.

* * *

Over the next few days we got into a routine, the weather stayed warm, and I was actually beginning to tan a little. Although next to a tanned Joel, it was hard to tell. He mocked me about it over and over. I guess the Casper label was never going to be shaken off. I felt sad we were now onto the second to last day of our holiday. I wanted it to continue, I was not ready to go home just yet.

We spent the morning walking around the shops, stopping off at a nice traditional café. We sat outside enjoying the salty air. The sun felt good against our skin. Walking back to the cottage, we cut across the beach. It was the one place I loved and would spend every day if it were only possible. Ruby was bounding around chasing seagulls as Joel took me in his arms. I sighed into his neck, gently nibbling at his skin.

“Today is a beautiful day to get married, don’t you think?”

My head snapped up to look into his eyes. “What?”

“I said today would be a great day to get married, the sun, the beach, it’s the perfect setting.” His eyes watched me carefully waiting for a response.

“Of course.” Now that he pointed it out, it seemed the most idyllic suggestion for a wedding. Not too over the top, relaxed and perfect for us.

“Then how about you marry me here today?”

“What?” Did he just actually say that?

“I want to marry you here today. Say yes and I can make it happen.”

“But how?” I asked in sheer disbelief.

“I have everything planned. We’ve been doing it all behind your back while you were away on tour.”

“And when you say ‘we’ you mean?”

“Elijah too. He has everything—the dress, the flowers, the bridesmaid, the rings. All you have to do is say yes, and we’ll get married here in two hours.” He stared at me waiting to give him a response.

“But my mother—”

“And Mike and Kara are all here, Sam too. My uncle, Nan and grandad. Oh I even invited Corinne and Micha. Everyone important to us is here for our big day. We have it all planned. Elijah is on hand itching to start getting you ready. So what do you say, Iz, marry me on this perfect summer’s day?”