Hot Billionaire Delivered: So Hot Billionaires, #13

By Melody Love

He's just returned from serving his country, something he always dreamed of doing. Now he struggles with PTSD and still wonders about the mysterious letters while he received when he was serving. Who was this woman who continued to send him encouraging letters and gifts and what was her purpose?

 

Morgan continues to deal with the grief of losing her big brother Ray to the war. Her best friend and protector is gone and she wants to live out his legacy by continuing to support the troops. So when his best friend is deployed again, she knows she has to send him letters and packages, but she can't let him know who it is. Now he's home and she is dying to run into him. His letters back to her made her fall in love with him.

• Language: English
• Publisher: DM
• Release date: May 25, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393559733

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Chapter 1 – Chip POV Friday

Gentlemen, as a friendly reminder, we need all the bunks stripped by seven a.m. After that we need all linens placed in the corner so that maintenance can get everything collected in one fell swoop. Sergeant Layton’s voice bellowed down the hall and we all stood at attention. It was hard to believe that after five years, we were now finished with our overseas tour. Sergeant Layton walked up and down the aisle until he’d made eye contact with each of us. Then, he circled the perimeter of the barracks and walked back outside.

I can’t wait for dinner, I said under my breath. My bunkmate, Toby, chuckled. He knew that I was always ready for food. Being overseas had tested my ability to hold out and made me realize that the mind was stronger than the body. At the same time, I would do anything for a plate of chicken with some gravy and biscuits, which was rumored to be tonight’s dinner.

All right, gentlemen. File left and continue down the row until you reach the stairs. Then, Clarence will lead the platoon to our final stop which is left of the laundry facility. Sergeant Layton finished his announcements and we all stood at attention. Then, we turned to face the exit and started our march out of the hall and down the steps. I looked at the small brick window that boasted the ocean beyond it. I knew I would miss being in Asia, but I was also homesick and wanted to get back to Texas. I still had a hard time believing that we would be on a flight back to the States.

What do you think about going back home? I asked Toby when we were finally allowed to resume speaking on the floor. I know when you left you said it was kind of a relief.

You know something? I miss it. I think maybe now it’ll be different. All this time away makes me think that my life wasn’t so bad back in Illinois, after all, he added with a shrug. I nodded.

Yeah. I get what you’re saying. It’s like all this time away gave us a new perspective, I said. Toby nodded. I knew that when we had all gotten back to our base in Maryland it would be hard to say goodbye to Toby. He had been my confidante when I was anxious, alone, and confused. I would miss him, and I figured he would miss me too.

Well, man, whatever happens once we get back, know that you’ll always have a friend in me, he said and gave me a gentle punch on the shoulder. We both walked to the end of the row, then turned, and followed Clarence to the bunk house. When we got to our bunk space, we both took a few minutes to empty out our drawers and our foot lockers. Man, I had no idea I had stuffed so much crap in here, laughed Toby as he pulled out a mound of socks, boxer shorts and t-shirts.

Don’t feel bad, I said. I bet my situation isn’t that much better. With that, I walked to the other side of the room and unlocked the black chest that held all my belongings. I pulled out a massive pile of clothing and was just about to close the chest when I saw a brown paper bag at the bottom. Oh, wow, I said to myself as I picked up the bag.

What? asked Toby. Did you find a pile of gold at the bottom there? he joked. I chuckled.

Time will tell, I said with a curious grin. I set the paper bag aside and then closed the chest. A ray of sunlight cast a shadow across the room, and I stared for a moment, wondering if I would ever unearth the secret behind all these letters. Ever since I’d arrived in Asia, I’d been the recipient of a letter almost every other week. All the guys would sit outside the email room and roll their eyes when Sergeant Layton called out the names for mail. Deckman, Hatch, Gerond, Wooster. I’d get up to accept my letter, then sit back down on the bench and wait till I was in my bunker to open it.

Chip, I know it might seem kind of strange that I’m sending you this letter, but I want you to think of it as a gift, read the opening of one of the earliest letters. I’m sure it must be hard to be away from home. Everyone here thinks you are so brave and strong. Keep up your strength and know that we’ll all be here for you upon your return, it continued. I had set the letter aside at that point, wondering who it could have been from. I didn’t recognize the handwriting and there was no address to tip off a clue.

For years, the guys in my platoon asked me who the so-called love letters were from and for years I’d played down their questions. I’m telling you guys, I have no clue, I’d laugh as I opened the letter with a knife. It was the truth, though. I didn’t have the slightest idea who kept sending me anonymous letters. I assumed that it was a woman from the style of handwriting and the nurturing tone that each letter seemed to contain; but at the end of the day, I really had no idea.

As the days rolled by in the platoon, I always held a sense of wonder about who was sending me the letters. I liked to think that I might have some secret admirer somewhere, but what really mattered was the fact that I was acknowledged. Some of the guys who I was stationed with never heard from anyone. A lot of them didn’t have siblings, or they were estranged from their parents. I couldn’t even imagine what the years must have been like for them, to never have anyone check in on their well-being. It made me feel lucky to receive these letters, even if I didn’t know who they were from.

As Toby and I packed up our duffle bags and straightened up the room, I noticed there was one more letter lying at the foot of my chest. It must have fallen from the bag and I recognized it as soon as I put it in my hands. Open when you return home, was written across the back of the envelope. It was in the same handwriting as all the other anonymous letters and it also had no return address. It had piqued my curiosity months ago when I’d received it, but feeling obligated to do as instructed, I’d never even torn open a corner to peek.

Have you thought about what you might do when you get back? asked Toby, distracting me from my thoughts. I shook my head and set down the letter.

Nah. Not yet. I figure I’ll probably try to step in and help manage a few of the smaller companies that my guys back home are working with. I pondered Toby’s question and realized I would have a host of options when I got back home. It would be interesting to see where my path led me.

That sounds like a good plan, said Toby. I hope I can find something that’ll pay off. After five years overseas, I’m betting I’ll be able to get college taken care of and then I can open up my own company.

Well, you can do whatever you want, I said. I know that whatever you decide, it’ll be a good decision for you. I encouraged Toby as he packed up and then sat down at the edge of the bunk. I hope that you know you can call me anytime, I added. Toby nodded his head.

Thanks, man. I know that you’ll always be around if I need it. Toby grinned and then sighed. Hard to believe that we’re gonna be out of here in just a day, he added. I nodded. The thought of leaving was bittersweet. On the one hand, I was excited to be heading back to my home, back to familiarity, friends, and family. But on the other hand, I was sad to think of all that I’d miss- the Asian people, the friends in my platoon, the gorgeous scenery we viewed on a daily basis.

When nightfall came, Toby and I were completely packed up. We made our way down to the mess hall for the turkey dinner that I’d been dreaming about all day. As soon as we reached the kitchen, I closed my eyes and sniffed. It was like a scent from heaven as far as I was concerned. The guys on server duty got plates and silverware prepped as the rest of us watched from the line. I was eager to sit down and dig in but also somewhat reserved because this would be our last night together as a group.

As part of our last night together as a group, I’d like make a very brief speech in an offer of thanks, said Macman, one of the platoon leaders. Toby and I listened as Macman cleared his throat. I know that some of us have gotten to know each other really well over these last five years. Toby and I moved in closer to hear better. I know we’ve all been through our ups and downs, through some tough days and some fun times. I wanted to thank all of you for making the best of our years together and for always working hard at whatever the task was. I nodded my head and closed my eyes. It was going to be an emotional goodbye. I knew that all along.

The platoon inched closer to the mess hall and took their seats at the tables. I hope we get that turkey fast, said Toby with a grin. Macman waited for everyone to settled down. Before we go, I wanted to thank our trusted leader, Sergeant Layton, for all of his tireless efforts to keep us all afloat. Without him, I’m not sure where we’d all be. With that, we all stood up and clapped. Sergeant Layton smiled and then walked to the front of the hall.

I want to thank Macman for that thoughtful speech, said Sergeant Layton. It is with great pride that I bid you all farewell, he added with a pause. You have all brought so much to the table and done so much for your country, he continued. I felt a sense of pride wash over me as he spoke. Thank you all for being such upstanding men and for serving the United States of America. We all sat humbly in our seats, then watched as Sergeant Layton bowed and walked away.

Food was served and we all ate like it was the last meal we’d ever have. I thought about the flight home from Asia, about my parents, and my neighborhood friends. I thought about not seeing Toby every day, about living a life away from the platoon. My mind was full of thoughts and questions as we all finished our meal and headed for the launch pad. In less than twenty-flour hours, we’d be back home, and life would resume, albeit much different than it was right now.

Chapter 2 – Morgan POV Saturday

When I woke up on Saturday morning it was sunny and warm. I had always loved springtime in Texas and today’s weather proved why. A group of birds had made the tree outside my window their new home, so I watched them each morning as they chirped and sang to welcome the day. I sat up and yawned, then stretched and climbed out of bed. Today was a big day. Chip was finally coming home.

I walked to my window and watched as the birds flitted around in their nest. Then I drew in a deep breath and pulled out a pair of leggings from my dresser. I couldn’t believe it had already been two years since Sam had been killed. I walked past his picture and gulped. Sometimes, it was too hard for me to even look at his face, but I did, anyway. I could still remember the phone call that came from Sergeant Layton. The sound of his voice told me right away that something wasn’t right.

May I please speak to Morgan Wooster? It was Sergeant Layton and I had a sinking feeling about his call. Why would he be calling me on a Saturday night at ten o’clock? I wondered. Something must be wrong, I thought.

Yes. This is Morgan, I said with trepidation.

Morgan, this is Sergeant Layton, as you know. I’m very sorry to inform you that your brother, Sam, has been killed in the line of duty. After Sergeant Layton spoke, there was a long pause. Then I dropped the phone on the floor. I looked down at the exact spot that I’d stood in, two years ago to the day, and cried. The birds continued chirping and singing outside my window, but I could no longer hear them over the sound of my wailing.

It took me about fifteen minutes to get myself calmed down. I gathered my clothes and walked slowly to the bathroom, then closed the door behind me. Why did Sam have to die? I still didn’t understand. After two years, I still felt like I wanted more of an explanation, but what did it matter? He was gone and he was never coming back. I walked to the edge of the tub and sat down, then I got changed out of my pajamas and into my clothes.

After a few minutes of sitting in silence and staring at Sam’s photo, I decided to go downstairs. It was almost noon by now and I didn’t want the entire day to escape me. When I got to the kitchen, I put on a pot of coffee and poured myself a bowl of cereal. I was eager to do something fun with my time before Chip’s plane arrived. For months, I’d been looking forward to seeing him come back home. Chip had been Sam’s best friend and I knew that Sam’s death had done a number on him as well. I had made it my mission to keep Chip’s spirits upbeat while he completed his duty.

Okay. I just need to take a deep breath, I said aloud as I walked across the floor to open the window. I was feeling excited and anxious about Chip’s return, partially because I knew he was going to be overwhelmed with emotion and partially because to me, he represented the closest person to Sam that I’d ever had. The sun was still shining bright when I decided to fill up a water bottle and go for a little walk. I hoped that getting outside and moving around would help calm my nerves.

Stepping outside was the best choice I’d made all day. The air was warm, and the sun was bright. For me, I didn’t need much else. A small dose of sunshine was all I needed right now to take the edge off. I walked down the street to First Avenue, then took a right. Beyond my house was a small trail that all the locals took to get to the park. Part of what made Rollingwood, Texas, so appealing was its small-town charm. I continued along until I reached the dirt path, then went left, up and into the hills.

A few other hikers passed by with their dogs and I stopped to catch my breath. All of the walking had done me good, I thought as I sipped my water. I pulled out my phone and checked the time. It was almost two and my best friend from high school, Lorraine Chapman, was flying in to visit me around five. I decided to complete my hike and head back home so that I could catch up on my emails. I was feeling more excited by the minute because I knew I’d soon be in the company of my friend.

Just as I arrived at my house and unlocked the door, I saw a car pull up in the driveway. No way! I exclaimed. It was Lorraine. She jumped out of the driver’s seat as soon as she saw me on the porch.

Morgan! she exclaimed with a smile. I ran to meet her and we both embraced in the driveway. How are you? she asked.

I’m great. Here, give me that suitcase, I said and reached for her luggage.

Thanks, girl. Lorraine gave my arm a squeeze and walked with me up the driveway. I’m so excited to be here to see you, she added. We have so much catching up to do, she said. I nodded my head and realized that I hadn’t even told her that Chip’s flight was coming in today.

I’m so happy to have you here. I went and got a whole bunch of fresh fruit and salad mix for us to have for dinner, I said. And, I made sure to get you an extra pool pass for the week in case you want to go swimming, I added. Lorraine smiled.

Thanks, Morgan. Lorraine smiled and we both walked upstairs. I tossed her suitcase on the guest room bed and then showed her where the extra bathroom was. I loved the fact that I could have guests stay over and that they could enjoy all the space I had in my house. Several years as a writer had finally paid off and I was now making enough money to afford the mortgage. It made me feel good to be able to share my space with friends.

You’re so welcome. I stood by the window and watched as Lorraine unzipped her suitcase. I bet the weather in Vermont was pretty hot, too, I said. Lorraine nodded.

Oh my gosh, yes, she said. I made sure to pack mostly tank tops and shirts, she laughed. We had three days in a row of upper eighties, and I figured Texas weather might be just as hot or even hotter. I nodded.

You’re right about that. I loved Texas in the springtime, but it could heat up to extremes. In the summer months, most of us spent our days indoor with air conditioning. For this reason, I tried to make the most of the springtime weather, regardless of how hot it might be,

Well, I’m sure that you and I will manage to have fun, no matter what the weather is, said Lorraine.

You got that right, I agreed. I found a great restaurant for both of us to try tonight. It’s right on Second Avenue. I was so excited to show Lorraine my town. She had been to Texas once when we had just graduated from college, but it had been a few years since she’d been back. Hey, you have that entire dresser to yourself, I said, motioning to the right.

Oh, cool, smiled Lorraine as she placed a few shirts in the top drawer. What kind of food? she asked.

It’s Mediterranean and it’s gotten amazing reviews, I added.

That sounds perfect, said Lorraine. You know me. Once a foodie, always a foodie, she said.

Oh, I know, I laughed. Remember your college graduation party? I asked. That was one of the most amazing food experiences ever. Lorraine had hired the most incredible caterer for her party and served a variety of ethnic foods from across the world Everyone raved about the food for months following her party.

Oh, yes, she laughed. I can still remember all of those vendors who set up hours in advance. I know, she laughed. It was slightly over the top, but come on. she said. It was graduation, after all, she smiled. I nodded my head.

Well, you had no complaints from anyone, I said.

I know, said Lorraine. It was a great time, she said with a laugh.

Why don’t we have a drink after you unpack? I asked, excited. Lorraine’s eyes lit up.

Sounds good, she said, placing the rest of her clothes in the dresser. We both walked out to the hallway after she was done unpacking. It was beginning to cool off slightly and I closed my eyes as a light breeze swept through the window. We walked downstairs and went to the kitchen, then sat down at the table.

Beer or wine I asked, reaching into the fridge. Lorraine cocked her head to the side in contemplation.

I think I’m in the mood for a beer, she said. With that, I took out a lager and then a glass. I poured Lorraine’s drink and then handed it to her while she picked at a bowl of grapes. Then I poured myself a beer and sat down.

This calls for a toast, I smiled. We both held up our glasses and clanked them together. To our friendship, I said with a grin. Lorraine reached over and gave my arm a squeeze.

To our friendship, she said in return. With that, we both took gulps of our drinks and then set them down on the table. It was so much fun to be in the company of a friend. I got up and opened the patio door so that the breeze could filter through the kitchen. Then I turned off the indoor lights, lit a few candles and sat back down.

I thought about you on so many occasions this year, said Lorraine. I had so many times when I wanted to call you and talk your ear off, but I know you lead a busy life, especially as a writer, said Lorraine. I never wanted to take up your time with silly small talk, she added. I rolled my eyes.

You’re my best friend, I said. No matter where you are, you’ll always be my number one and you can call me whenever you want, I said. Lorraine smiled. We both sipped on our drinks and then walked outside to the patio table. I lit a citronella candle and we both sat down.

I know the last few years have been rough. Lorraine got serious and looked at me with concern. I wish you had called me more often, but I know how you are and you don’t want to be looked at like a burden, she said. I can only imagine how hard this has been on you. Sam was your best friend, she said. Tears came to my eyes.

Oh, Lorraine. She could read me like a book.

It’s really been bad. I just sit up some nights and think about what could have happened instead. You know? Like, I wonder if someone else would have jumped out of that plane sooner and then he would have had a chance to stay back at the platoon. Like, if he hadn’t been on that trip, then he wouldn’t have ended out in the bush and he wouldn’t have walked to where that grenade was. I stared off into the backyard and Lorraine listened on with intent eyes.

Morgan. Lorraine got up from her seat and walked behind my chair as tears fell down my cheek. I’m so sorry. She gave me a hug and I cried. It had been so long since I’d had anyone to talk to about Sam. My parents wouldn’t speak much about it and I had no other close friends who really understood the extent of my pain. Right now, all I knew was that I felt so grateful to have a best friend like Lorraine. I held her arm and let the tears flow.

Thank you, friend. I turned around and squeezed her hand. We both looked up at the sky and for just a moment I imagined that my big brother, Sam, was looking down on me.

Chapter 3 – Chip POV Saturday

Okay, boys. This is it. I sat down in my