Unfortunately, I got very sick in early 2023, and in October of 2023, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma type cancer. I have finished chemo, and it is officially in remission (yay! thank the Lord). I will be updating soon, hopefully, as my energy returns. I want to finish my stories and continue others soooo badly, it is driving me crazy! I am soo sorry for the lack of updating, and keeping in touch. I hope everyone is well and I look forward to writing for you again soon. Please be patient and thank you for waiting on me, I promise to hurry!
Josey lifted her eyelids just before their lips met, hoping to catch a glimpse of the sparkling glaciers the mystery man's eyes held. Instead, she was met with her sister's puppy dog brown ones looming in her face."Get up, Josey, you're gonna be late!" Giggling at Josey's sleepy lips perked, Emily made kissy faces at her sister."Oooo..I'm Prince Charming, kiss me!" Emily jumped into her older sister's lap, enjoying the rare chance to poke fun at her."Get off me, you dork!"Josey pushed her laughing sister onto the ground while trying not to laugh herself.Only Emily could make Josey feel embarrassed and cheerful at the same time."Spend more time worrying about yourself, Em, it's already 7, and you're going to be late as well!" Noticing the time on her alarm clock as she turned in her bed to get up, she told her sister this. Emily was still trying to gather herself from her laughing fit."Alright, alright. Don't go back to sleep, and today is the big day! I even made you breakfast!"
Josey went left onto the sidewalk from the apartments and headed straight for the Terrace Pharmaceutical building. Even four blocks away, sitting on the main intersection, the tall building loomed over the city, visible enough that Josey could never lose her way. Passing by a bus stop, she was grateful for being able to walk and save money. People waiting for the bus were dressed in business attire, making Josey hopeful that she would soon be dressed the same one day. Checking out the city, the feeling of cool summer nights boosted Josey’s mood. This time of year always reminded her of when she and her sister bundled up and visited the nighttime markets along the shore, facing the vast ocean, which was one of her favorite things to do. She and Emily would only spend a little on snacks but still enjoyed looking over all the handmade dishes and items vendors had to offer. At the last block, passing through the familiar smell of coffee and baked goods, Josey was lost in thought. She di
“I shouldn’t be the one to whom you are giving the apology.” Jared just looked at her and smiled as he handed her back the clip board. “Ah, Sorry?” The receptionist asked, still giving Jared a big bright smile. “I’m sorry Josey, this companies' employee’s manners are a bit lacking, are you sure you want to try working her?” Josey held a straight face, as he turned and asked her this, trying not to giggle. “Yes, and mistakes can happen, can’t they Mrs...” Josey looked at her name tag. “Mrs. Brine?” Looking at her, Josey mused that the receptionists smile was about to become permanent. So much so, that she wouldn’t need clown makeup to scare little children. “Miss, it’s Miss Brine.” Her eyes rotated to Josey a moment before going back to Jared’s face. “Thanks Jared, you’re a life saver. Can I please have a badge now?” Josey asked, holding her hand out. “Anytime Josey, if you need me, any further, I will be on the 6th floor for a meeting.” Patting Josey’s head, Jared turned
Josey left the tall metal and glass windowed building feeling defeated. Her interview didn’t last more than 5 minutes. Feeling awful, she stopped to sit at a bench outside the building. The bustling of morning traffic still filled the air as she gathered what to do next. “How’d it go?” Cece asked, coming up to her, holding two to go cup carriers full of coffee. “Oh, hey! Yea, don’t get me started, I am forever destined to be a part timer I guess.” Josey answered as Cece handed her a cup of coffee. Cece laughed as she sat next to her friend. “How come you aren’t inside?” Josey asked her, eyeing the carriers of coffee. “I had to drop off some forms to one of our distributors early this morning, and grabbed coffee on my way back. So, what happened?” Cece asked Josey softly. Cece had known Josey for almost ever, and knew when Josey was feeling down, you had to prod her brain until she would spill it all out. “Well let's see. I almost died, but was saved, and then treated lik
Having filled the small table with tissues, Josey finally relieved herself of all the tears that would come. Tossing the finished coffee and tissues in the trash, she started her tirade of deep cleaning in the bathroom finally. Several hours had passed and she had managed to conquer over a dozen colonies of dust bunnies, rivers of loose hair and unidentified hidden crumbs under the sofa. Even in Emily’s room she obtained a trash can full of paper bits, tossed sketches, and the occasional snuck snack wrapper. Her sister's hobby for drawing and tossing, could fill a landfill in no time. After making her bed, Josey laid on her back and stared at the ceiling. Cece had sent her a message earlier saying they will be texting those that passed, later in evening, and that Mrs. Avery wouldn’t budge on the names. Taking a deep breath Josey closed her eyes and decided on a catnap. It was only 2:30 so she could rest until 4:30 before she headed over to the apartment office. She easily slippe
Tarrin had purchased the apartments at the suggestion of his friend Linux, who claimed it was a good strategical move, now that Tarrin was back at his estate. Tarrin needed the apartments because the land they were located on backed up to his estate, and he could keep his personal life that much more secure having control of the area around. “It’s business, if you refuse to sign the new lease, and provide the 8%, then I suggest you start looking for a new place to live.” He didn’t want to be the bad guy, but he had no choice. Being a softy has only ever landed him in regret. Tarrin eyed her, waiting for her response. The smell of cleaner tickled his throat, and he assumed from her appearance, she must have recently cleaned apartment. Suddenly finding her diligence attractive, he quickly pushed the thought aside. Hearing the finality in Tarrin’s voice pushed Josey’s desperation further. Looking at him, trying not to lose her temper even more and cry pitifully, Josey took a deep brea
Singing happily as if she was riding a fluffy cloud, Josey finished setting the table. She had over done it and cooked too much food she thought, briefly, but decided not to care at that moment. She would be able to face her sister proudly, and soon give her everything under the bright sun. “Oh my gosh Jo! It smells fantastic! Hehe, what's all this for?” Emily had come in the door and kicked off her shoes, practically running to the kitchen from the smell that filled their apartment. Watching her sister shuffle with excitement from the food she cooked, Josey beamed. “Well, as you are usually the one to cook for me, I decided since I had tonight off, I would do the cooking.” Josey said as she smiled. “You got the job?” Emily asked grabbing the back of the kitchen chair. Josey just nodded no, while eyeing the spatula she was holding, with a sad look. She wanted to trick her sister, but failed the moment she looked up to see the excitement start to leave Emily’s eyes. “YES!” J
After having a short talk and laugh with Jared about her day, they said their goodnights and Josey went inside. Suddenly feeling tired, she decided she needed sleep to fuel her shopping trip for tomorrow.She held in a laugh after opening their bedroom door and seeing her sister sleeping with her head laying on the desk, wide mouthed and drooling. She had a bag of snacks in one hand and a pencil in the other. Careful not to disturb her too much, Josey removed the snack bag and pencil before slowly lifting her by her shoulder and helping her over to her bed.Emily murmured something about math then turned over as Josey covered her with the froggy printed comforter.Going over to her own bed, Josey kicked off her slippers and snuggled under her comforter. Thoughts of the new job, the horrible new boss and Jared always popping up to help her raced through her mind before she finally slipped off to sleep.“Jo, I’m headed out! I’ll be back late, a few of us are going to the student council
Unfortunately, I got very sick in early 2023, and in October of 2023, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma type cancer. I have finished chemo, and it is officially in remission (yay! thank the Lord). I will be updating soon, hopefully, as my energy returns. I want to finish my stories and continue others soooo badly, it is driving me crazy! I am soo sorry for the lack of updating, and keeping in touch. I hope everyone is well and I look forward to writing for you again soon. Please be patient and thank you for waiting on me, I promise to hurry!
Linux dropped Josey off, and she felt a bit of relief being home. Tarrin was his usual arrogant self in the end, and she felt stupid for feeling maybe he had warmed up to her. Turning her phone off, she decided it was officially the weekend and wouldn’t answer it for anything unless it was Emily or Cece. “See how you like that. Answer your own emails!” Yelling it out as she set her phone down, Josey plopped on the couch and stared at the TV. The apartment was quiet, and the sudden lack of noise made her uncomfortable, so she decided to head over to Cibus street and check out the food markets near the water. “Three for a dollar or two pounds for three dollars!” The vendors called out, enticing passersby with their catches of the day or homemade goods. The smell of cooked fish and bread filled the air as Josey casually strolled by each colorful stall. She even ran into Mr. Huen, who gave her a tough front but treated her to free fish bites in the end. Seeing one of her favorite
Josey shrugged, “I think I already mentioned it once. He used to show up in the warehouse when my parents were working. His Father’s office was nearby at the time, so Jared would hang out with me as I waited for dad to finish for the day,” she replied finally and then said softly, “He was there the day it happened.” Tarrin knew what she was talking about but asked, “The day the fire happened?” Josey nodded and responded, “Yes, he showed up right as I was about to run in there. Damn, he hasn’t changed one bit now that I think about it.” “There is something oddly familiar about that guy, I’m telling you. It isn’t safe for him to be around her, Tarrin.” Tarrin nodded silently at both Josey's comment and the wolf’s warning. Once Mara returns, he will know more about this Mr. Hunter from Rapture investments. When they finally reached the house, Linux spoke up, “Hey, I, uh, think I’m gonna crash at home today.” Tarrin faked a cough again and said, “I’d rather you be at the house
“Hey, that’s not funny! I get your point. Let’s focus now, please... geesh,” the wolf whined. Tarrin smiled with satisfaction that it worked. Josey was waiting anxiously for Emily to come up on stage, and Tarrin’s mind went to something else. Before the interlude ended, Tarrin leaned over and peeked through a small opening in the heavy red curtain. He could see directly where Jared and Olana sat in the reserved booth. Olana was smiling and then leaned over and whispered something to Jared, and he nodded and whispered back. Did they really know each other? Were they responsible for Josey getting stuck on the roof if that’s the case? Both of them had been at the building that day, and Jared’s coat looked identical to the one in the CCTV footage. He made a note to mention it to Mara when the recital was over. If those two were friends, then they may be working together. But for what purpose? Was Jared one of the hunters or related to the ones that killed his father? “You’re ful
Tarrin and Josey were ushered to the VIP seating, where they could see the concert hall’s stage. It was a perk of Tarrin’s company funding the upgrades of the hall and supporting the students. “I’m impressed. Who knew I would end up inside someone with such pull,” the wolf commented in Tarrin’s head. Grinning in a cocky manner, Tarrin sat next to Josey, secretly glancing at her. “Wow, I can’t believe the number of people here for the recitals. I bet Emily’s nervous,” Josey said, looking over the seated crowd below. Tarrin nodded, “The recital is a good start for many students planning their musical future. Scouts and certain company exec’s come looking for a promising start to represent.” “Speaking of company executives, do you smell that? I think it’s, damn, we have company,” the wolf whispered in Tarrin’s mind. Tarrin rolled his eyes and looked around. He didn’t know what he was smelling, but then the familiar cologne of Jared Hunter hit his nose before he spotted the CEO
Tarrin watched as Josey hesitated, looking at the many dishes in front of her. “Look, if you want to apologize for yesterday, apology accepted. You don’t have to go through all this for me. I’m just your employee,” she said, looking at him confused and glancing at the tulip bouquet on the table’s edge. Tarrin cleared his throat, “I... I know. This isn’t an apology. I’m in the public eye, so having you dressed properly is strictly for my benefit. Eating is just a necessity, and I was craving the food here, which you also benefit from. I didn’t want you, I mean us, going and sitting through the recital with our stomachs growling.” Tarrin glanced at her, trying to read her response, but she simply nodded and gently grabbed a bite of food. In the background, the sound of the violin played in tune with the waterfall while they ate in peace. Now and then, Tarrin caught himself stealing glances at Josey. He was still enamored by how beautiful she looked. “Say something. You’re blowing
They stood outside in the cold midmorning air after Mara dropped them off in front of HighFlowers. “I’m not sure what you’re up to, but I don’t want to go in there,” Josey said finally, turning to leave. Tarrin turned her back around and gently pushed her forward, “You will go in there, like it or not.” Finally walking through the silver and etched glass door, Josey stopped fighting against his insisting and looked around. The brand store was huge, and being high-end, Tarrin and Josey were immediately greeted. “Hello! Welcome to HighFlowers, right this way, Mr. Stormway,” a female attendant said, ignoring Josey and gesturing Tarrin to a lavish seating area. “I won’t be staying. Ms. Parks here is to be cared for in every aspect. We will attend a recital tonight, so please see that she is well-dressed. I will need a driver to bring her to Hydelos in an hour.” The woman nodded and looked at Josey a minute before saying, “An hour? No problem!” She then clapped her hands as sever
“Yes, reservation for two, private. Thank you,’ hanging up the call with the restaurant he booked for after the recital. Tarrin felt a bit sure of himself now. “Yeah, throwing money around is great, but that’s not how you’re going to win her heart. She isn’t like the rest of them, Tarrin Stormway. I hope you come to realize her worth,” the wolf said, getting nervous Tarrin was making a mistake, that he may make Josey distance herself further. “Hush, what do you know? You lived before there was indoor plumbing!” The wolf scoffed, “That is a lie, and you know it!” Tarrin shook his head, “Doesn’t matter. I am not doing this to impress her.” “Lie.” “I mean, she should be impressed naturally, but I’m doing this as an apology for getting her involved in my problems,” Tarrin said out loud in response. “Lie again.” “Uhg, just shut up and leave me alone.” He yelled, turning to stomp down the rest of the stairs. Linux was standing there at the bottom, staring at him. “Lab, now!” Tarri
“Okay, hold on, so you’re saying my father must have taken your blood and used it in a serum on me, and that’s why you are here, in my head?” The wolf turned and nodded, “Yes, to put it simply.” Tarrin stood and started pacing. “I mean, if this was some fairytale, sure, I could believe it. But the science says you are a disease, a mutation constantly fighting to take over.” If wolves could shrug, this one would have. “Maybe that is what I am, a mutation, but it’s straightforward. Who do you think would win if you and I were stuck in a box, fighting to get out?” Tarrin eyed him before stomping and heading back the way they came. “We are done here. You won’t be getting out of anything or taking it over. That’s a fact,” he snapped and then stopped, looking back at the wolf, “and another thing, don’t you ever, EVER, lay my hands on Josey again. She’s scared of me now because of you!” The wolf suddenly fell back, rolling with laughter. “Ha, you think you can stop me? Good luck. The