Shattered by You |Book 2| Jacob & Cheyenne

By I.M. Zoetic

Shortly after marrying Jacob, Cheyenne's vision of Happily Ever After was shattered by his possessive behaviour. A bout of erratic jealousy and subsequent actions almost broke her resolve yet again. Fleeing to his homeland of Ireland, Jacob decides Cheyenne is better off without his volatile, uncontrollable behaviours.

But this time, Cheyenne does not surrender. She follows Jacob to Ireland to again confirm they belong together despite all odds. However, in doing so Cheyenne steps into a world concealed to her by Jacob that forces her to question everything she thought she knew about her soulmate. A series of harrowing events ensue that continuously challenge their beliefs, willpower, and fate.

• Language: English
• Publisher: I.M. Zoetic
• Release date: May 6, 2022
• ISBN: 9780995300514

I.M. Zoetic

Greetings, and welcome to my bio? Funny, I never thought the day would come when people thought I was important enough to look up. It's an honour and a privilege to share my journey with you. I am relatively new to the writing world, and although I am not a part of any groups or writing clubs, I have e-published several stories. Of course, I like to believe I have passion and the ability to lure you into a world of love, hope, loss and laughter - painting a world to get lost in. I hope you enjoy my stories as much as I've enjoyed writing them! I am a proud Canadian born and raised in northern Ontario but now reside in the nation's capital. At 40+ years old, I feel I have accomplished many things throughout my life. My most outstanding achievement was staying home and raising two beautiful daughters, which allowed me to pursue my dream of writing, something I never thought I would actually have the time or talent to do. Although I've been a member of Smashwords for some time, I didn't consider myself a professional indy author until January 1st, 2020. After that, I was all in. The journey has been challenging, but I have no regrets, primarily because of all the support I've received from my readers, family, and friends. Initially, I was focused on Contemporary Romance - considering my Colliding Worlds Saga - but since publishing, I've dabbled in Paranormal Romance (mainly Werewolf/Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic). Check out my Wattpad page; you might be surprised at what you find. =0) Every one of my stories is filled with heartfelt emotions, bringing you through a whirlwind of varying feelings. The characters and events are humorous, engaging, compelling, and entirely different. I aim to leave you wanting more as the story evolves and takes you through many adventures. Enjoy! Immy

Book preview

| Book 2|

Jacob & Cheyenne

All rights reserved

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the publisher.

Please be advised: Shattered by You is intended for MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY [18+] Strong profanity and graphic sex scenes, along with other sensitive topics - including, but not limited to - depression, violence, alcohol/drug abuse, anxiety disorder, are present throughout the story.

ISBN: 978-0-9953005-1-4

Dedication

For my wonderful family for not only listening to me ramble on about uninterested thoughts, ideas, misgivings - THEN happily ignored me as I continuously wrote, erased, changed, edited, changed, erased, rewrote again. Your silent and vocal encouragement has never gone unnoticed or unappreciated.

For my readers, thanks for coming back and supporting me further. I can't express how much you mean to me—my deepest gratitude.

Love,

Immy

Table of Contents:

Title Page

Copyright

Dedication

Prologue

1. Rock Bottom

2. I must be Dreaming

3. Bloody Hell!

4. Within Jacob's Mind

5. The invasion of the Canadians

6. Money, money, Money

7. It's still Jay

8. Farewell for Now

9. Bottoms Up!

10. A deeper Understanding

11. Welcome to our humble Abode

12. Mr. JTO

13. What do I call You?

14. I'm sorry, what's that Now?

15. All for Me?

16. Jacob's Confession

17. O'Reilly Manor

18. Meet the Parents

19. Marking my Territory

20. Shannon

21. What'd I Miss?

22. Stepping into Jacob's World

23. Distasteful Findings

24. Friend or Foe

25. Tycoon

26. Valentine's Day

27. Claimed

28. Intruder

29. Redemption

30. Drained

31. The night everything Changed

32. Mrs. JTO

33. The beast is Awake

34. Where is She?

35. He's back… with a Vengeance

36. The Meeting

37. Startling News

38. Mother Dearest

39. Stronger than you Think

40. Salty Tears

41. Should have gotten that Prenup!

42. Confusing Times

43. One jagged puzzle piece at a Time

44. Who is the Puppeteer?

45. Smarter than we Thought

46. Money trumps Love?

47. Realization

48. Demonic Propensities

49. Unbreak my Heart

50. Don't lie to Me

51. Going head-to-Head

52. Unstoppable

53. Comforting Moments

54. 1978 Dodge Power Wagon

55. Business as Usual

56. Two steps Ahead

57. Yo-Yo of Emotions

58. The Gypsy

59. Like a River…

60. Laying his Claim

61. Anguish

62. Love of my Life?

63. Nothing but Games

64. Losing it!

65. He's slipping Away

66. Jacob's Reflection

67. Destruction

About the Author

Prologue

You know that state of mind, the one right before you wake up after a long restless night's sleep, only something doesn't seem quite right? I'm there. In that abyss, it would seem. My mind is awake with a massive throbbing headache while I fight to open my eyes. I can't, yet I'm awake. I know I am. I hear an echo of sound repeatedly - almost like beeping and murmurs of voices. Nothing is clear. Everything is foggy in a dreamlike state. I force my eyes to open, wanting this to end this pain and form of unease.

The first hint of light stings my vision, forcing me to squeeze my eyes closed. Slowly, I allow them to adjust as I spot on the white perforated tile on the ceiling. Doctor, he's awake. I look to my right to find a middle-aged nurse smiling down at me. Welcome back, Jacob. I cock my head, and the pain resonates throughout my body.

Where - where have I been? I choke out. Jesus, my throat feels as if I had swallowed a truck full of beach sand. She smiles a kind-hearted grin before looking past me. I turn my head and see an older man, the doctor, I presume. I'm in a hospital, and yet I see no one I know. What the hell is going on?

Hello, Jacob...

Jay. I prefer Jay, I correct him with confusion. He smiles more and takes a seat on the edge of my bed. Why am I in a hospital? I question, trying to sit up. The nurse panics and lays me back down gently.

Easy son, you were involved in a car accident ten days ago. We let you rest for a while, and now it's time to assess the injury. I look at him quizzically.

Injury? Trepidation sinks in as I look around again. Where's my family? Where are Mac and Ail? Did I - was I alone in the car? I don't remember. He smiles kindly at me.

Okay, Jay. We need to take this slow. I'm Dr. O'Hanlon, and I'm a neurologist, son, he slowly states while regarding me cautiously. Brain damage? I have brain damage? Oh god. I sigh and look at the ceiling. We need to find out how severe the TBI - traumatic brain injury - is before we can start to focus on recovery. Do you have a headache? I nod, lost for words. Brain damage. On a scale of 1 to 10...

Forgive me, but I'm confused, and I need my family with me before we continue. He looks at the nurse before looking back at me.

Who exactly would that be? he queries with guarded interest. Squinting my eyes in further confusion, I respond without pause.

Well, my wife, of course. He smiles, looking somewhat relieved. Molly.

1. Rock Bottom

Three Months Earlier...

Shannon, why the fuck do you keep bugging me to go out? I bark while flipping through the channels on the T.V. I haven't moved from this spot for hours. I'm still wearing the same t-shirt and pyjama pants from 2 days ago. I never wear fucking pyjama pants.

It's New Year's Eve, and I never go out. Patti offered to watch the boys, and I want to go dancing, she pouts as I frown further. She has been driving me nuts all fuckin' day.

Urgh! I've told you a million times... I throw my head back, go out with your girlfriends. I'll watch the kids. You'll have more fun. Maybe even find another fuckin' bloke to bug, I throw a pillow at her. She smiles and dodges it.

Come on, Mac and Ail want you to go out too. I know; they've been calling and texting all fucking day too. I think Mac rented a limo or something. It'll be fun, she jumps up and down. She's never this persistent.

Cormac and Ailbe can find other ways to entertain themselves, I sulkily grumble. I don't want the company. I turn my attention back to the MMA fight on the screen before it goes black. My eyes shift over at my sister as she smirks, holding the power plug in her hand. Nice move. I chuckle lightly as her smile grows. Shannon, please, I suck to be around and just want to be left alone.

You've been miserable ever since we left... she stops as I look away. Look, it'll be worth it ... please trust me, she pleads as I look at her again. She smiles sweetly and moves over to the refrigerator, pulling out a beer. We're worried, Jay, and we don't want to see you become the old...

Why the fuck would he rent a limo? I cut her off as she passes me the bottle. I already know what she was about to say, and I don't want to hear it. I take a swig of the putrid liquid out of courtesy. It's my first drink since Vegas. Since that vile night where I ruined everything. I look at the bottle, stand up, walk over to the kitchen, and dump it down the sink's drain. Opening the cupboard, I grab a glass and fill it with water instead.

I don't know. It's different, she states softly after a few moments. Of course, she followed me. I look at her and chuckle. That's twice now, huh? I haven't done that since Vegas either.

Shannon, there's one bloody pub in Greystones, seriously?

Okay, maybe he didn't, but still, the boys really want you to go out, and so do I. You've been moping around since... she trails off again, looking ashen. We haven't spoken her name; it's too hard. I managed to work through the holidays, but Shannon insisted I come for New Year's. I really thought I would be with her right now, but instead, I fucked up, and now I'm alone and miserable again.

It's for the best I know this. She's better off without me. The letter I left her was the absolute truth. Only after being away from her the last two weeks have I realized that my insane jealousy and impulse to fight any and every guy that looks her way had been a significant issue between us.

She was right. I have fucked many others and let them use me, and she has only been with me. She's never touched, looked at or felt another other than me. She teased me many times in our time together, but that was all it was, and I needed to chill when it came to my ill temper. Now I have no choice but to let her move on without me.

My damn love for her is intense, and I don't know if it will ever be at a point where it would just simmer like other couples I know. Chey, oh god, is my everything, and I know if I pursued her right now, she would eventually forgive me as she always has. But I will ultimately fuck-up again, resulting in her feasibly resenting me, thus making her miserable.

I can't allow that.

I won't allow that.

It's better this way.

Besides, she hasn't tried to contact me, nor has Zayn or any of the others. I guess that is that I think sadly as my core constantly throbs with emptiness. I will take this feeling any day, knowing that my love will be better off without me.

Taking a drink of the flavourless liquid, I ponder as I do almost every moment of every day, the heartbreaking look I left on Cheyenne's face. The moment I broke her once again.

Her eyes, it's her eyes most of all that haunts me continually as I see her looking at fucking Amanda. I play that night over and over in my head. The wretched alcohol, the dancing and women as they hit on me and how I ate it up; loving it, absorbing it, inflating my fucking ego while my friends, Chey's friends, ward them off.

How I knew better, and yet the more I drank, the drunker I became, eventually picture Cheyenne dancing with me. It wasn't until Carmen slapped me back into reality that I realized I wasn't dancing with my wife; I was touching another woman, allowing her to touch me. I stood there and watched as Carm jumped her, completely mortified, as I knew that very moment would come back to plague me - and it did.

Only it was I who made it worse. I shouldn't have given into Amanda's tears. She played me, and after Cheyenne took off devastated, she tried to kiss me. Out of all the fuck ups I have had over the years, that is one I truly wish I could do over.

I smile ruefully at myself. She's better off without me and my fucked-up ways. She's stronger and better now in a healthy state of mind. She will find another in time. She once found something with... Fuck. No more thoughts for now. I look at Shannon as she looks at me with concern. I smile small for her sake. Jay...

Fine, you win! But I'm not drinking, I state sternly. She runs into my arms and hugs me hard.

You will be thanking me later, but right now, you need to shower, eww, you stink! she blocks her nose and waves her hand back and forth. Call the boys to let them know we're going out. And with that, she walks out of the kitchen.

With a deep sigh, I grab my phone.

I step foot into the pub, a relic of a bygone era that the local fishermen gravitate to after a long day out at sea. All eyes fall on the door as it chimes, indicating my arrival. I'm met with looks of contempt and dullness before the frequent patrons turn away to drown their sorrows.

I remember thinking Greystones was somewhat of a conundrum in many ways when I was a young lad. People from all walks of life, living in a small town, all doing their part, sounds relatively normal. However, it wasn't quite like that. Greystones' seaside businesses employ the main population, which consists of the blue and grey collars shaping most of the area. Then you have the wealthy living up above the town on the high cliffs or tucked away in magnificent coastal manors pretending to be one with the town folk, which they most definitely are not. Far to the west, hidden by the rolling hills, is the orphanage that houses many abandoned and bereaved adolescents often forgotten about; I ponder with distaste.

Some natives tolerate and even accept all the distinct groups that mould Greystones. Many do not. There is a divide. A blatant divide that I rebelled against when I was younger, to no avail.

What I was trying to accomplish was beyond my abilities. I hated the world, and I hated who I was in more ways than I'd like to admit. To this day, my wayward behaviour follows me whenever I'm here. It doesn't matter who I am now. I'm an O'Reilly, and that will never change.

Mac slaps me on the back, bringing my focus back to him as he smiles. Scowling further, I look around with contempt. Nothing has changed in the near-decade since I've last stepped foot in this place. Everything is still the same down to the ancient jukebox in the corner. The long, old bar with its worn-out stools flank the entire wall to the right while the banquet-seating stems along the far-left. Even the damn timeworn planked floors and ceiling with mismatched patinaed wooden tables located down the center still cram the dimly lit space.

Laughter breaks my sullen thoughts as I look over my shoulder briefly while taking a seat. The only thing new is the addition they added more than 20 years ago for wedding receptions and parties. Who would want to get married here is beyond me; I darkly think, as I remember my ceremony and sulk further.

Why the fuck aren't you drinking? Ailbe returns, pushing a pint of lager - I didn't order - in front of me. Growing, I move it away just as he sets it down across from me. I look at my best mates and stab them with a dirty look. Ah, there's the arsehole we love, his voice drips with sarcasm. I sigh again as he challenges me with his bloody stare.

Ailbe and Mac are getting on my fucking nerves. They call me all the fucking time when we are not working; they stop by unannounced and stay too. I'd rather be alone. I'm shitty company and a real asshole lately, but they're loyal like all the years in the past. I look away and think of her. God, I miss her.

He won't ... not since Vegas, Cormac answers before tipping his glass to his lips. I flip him off and look for my sister, who disappeared the moment we entered the tavern. I've decided to stay to ring in the New Year, then head to the office and do some work. At least I know I won't be disturbed on a night like tonight. It won't be any different from the last 8 New Years I've rung it in, alone!

It might help you relax if you did, Ailbe fires at me. I swallow, turn and give him one hell of a smirk.

Fuck off! Go find a feek to fuck, and leave me alone. Their smiles both drop as Ailbe's stare becomes venomous. I smirk more and continue. It's what you both do best, right? Fuck them, have a good time and walk away. No feelings, no nothing, I blurt out as both men look at me with complete disdain. Just cold arse fucking! I continue to smirk at Ailbe, hoping he will crack and hit me. I need it, and as much as I know I've just insulted them, I don't care enough to apologize.

You're not the only one who misses... Cormac starts as I stand and walk toward the exit. Why am I such an asshole? Why do I keep fucking up with everyone in my life that I care about? Maybe I'm destined to live a life of solitude? Perhaps I'm being punished? No, I need to own up for what I did, for what I've done. No one thinks for me, never has. Fuck! I slam my hand against the doorframe before yanking the doorknob ajar.

Tell my sister I had to go, I look over my shoulder to find them both standing behind me. I frown. I'm sorry for what I said; I didn't mean it. I'm just... I hear the D.J. talking in the other room. He catches my attention with his choice of words. I stop mid-sentence and focus.

So, what's your name, sexy? he purrs out as the gathered crowd in the back laughs. I cock my head and wait for the response.

Anastasia, a low sexy voice answers. No, it can't be. I hear cheering and hollering. I move slightly closer, pushing past the boys as I contemplate my sanity.

Where you from, you are not from Ireland. I can't hear the answer due to the shouting. So, you want to sing, can you? Woos come from the crowd, overpowering her response. Cormac and Ailbe follow behind as I slowly make my way to the back.

You okay, Jay? Mac questions with concern. You look a little puzzled, brother. I look at them with questioning eyes.

Did the D.J. say Anastasia? I ask, confused. It can't be. Mac cocks his eyebrows and smirks.

Aye... I spin and walk toward the back room with purpose. The place is packed with nowhere to sit along the wall or stand. I spot Shannon near the front, but I can't get to her. Fuck! My eyes focus on the small stage at the far end of the room. The D.J. is crammed in a wee booth, leaving the platform practically bare. She starts to sing, causing my breath to hitch, and my sights go berserk searching for her. The tune is different. Dark, very dark. Definitely not an Irish song. I'm trying to place it, but I don't think I've ever heard it before. My eyes continue to scan the room, frantically looking for her.

What the fuck Jay ... is that? No! I'm looking at Ail when he slowly smiles. I turn, and there she is. Her back is to the crowd, and her leg is turned out as she stomps to the beat. She slowly turns her face and angles it up toward the ceiling showing off her magnificent side profile. The beat changes as her legs begin to really stomp and move to the beat along with her upper body. The crowd is going fucking crazy, and it's just the beginning. She's drop-dead gorgeous as she turns to face the chaotic crowd. She's wearing leather, the outfit, down to the boots, no mask this time - she's not hiding, she wants to be seen. I smile genuinely for the first time in weeks as I listen to her sing, and fuck can she sing. I've never heard her sing this way before.

It's her... fuckin' Hell! Mac is on my other side as he laughs.

Next thing I know, Carm, Dayzee, Mel, Autumn stomp onto the stage and flank her, also in their outfits from our clubbing night back in August, holding drumsticks. The crowd goes wild. They have never seen anything like this in Greystones. Who am I kidding; I've never seen them perform this way either.

Fuuuucccckkkk!!!! Mac is pulling at his hair in utter surprise as Ail looks completely dumbfounded. Pushing through the crowd to get closer, Mac and Ail are hot on my trail.

The girls drop all at once to their knees. They start to slowly slide in and out on their knees closer to the floor, rolling their bodies to the dark tune as they hit the floor with their sticks, all in unison. They look sexy as hell.

Chey stands slowly and steps down off the stage. Her long shapely legs painstakingly make their way into the crowd as they watch her almost in slow motion glide toward me.

Her mesmerizing features stand out amongst every lady here as she smiles a dirty grin while she sings. Our eyes meet; I'm hit with the surge of electricity like never before, right to my heart. Her eyes are fucking green, oh shit. I lose my breath, only for her to smile more, knowing damn well how she affects me. After all, Cheyenne owns me. Has since the moment we met.

The crowd continues to separate for her as she makes her way to me very slowly, swaying her hips lost in her words. She finally comes to a stop only inches from where I stand, frozen in her trance. She raises her hand between us as if she's holding something. When the song ends, she opens her hand, not taking her eyes off mine. Her smile has vanished, and her eyes have shifted from green to slate blue. My eyes move to her hand.

My ring.

I look at it for a moment as others around us cheer and holler, lost in a dreamlike state. Is this real? Is she real? I reach for it and put it on. I smile at her as a wave of happiness floods me.

Don't take it off again! She smiles my smile as the crowd starts to simmer down. She turns, but I grab her, and she laughs, healing my heart instantly.

Spinning her, she wraps her body around mine. Home! She drops the microphone before her hands are in my hair, tugging hard, like always. Our eyes meet again, displaying her spellbinding turquoise hue. I can't help but swoop in and kiss her softly, like our first kiss, before I feel someone slap my back. She breaks the kiss too soon as I stare at her, still questioning her vitality.

Brother, we came to find you this time. I turn and see Zayn, Heath and the others. I place Chey down, not letting go of her hand. I'm sorry. I should have let you explain. You're family, and I will always allow you to explain before reacting from now on. You're my Brother. He shrugs and smiles. Indeed, I'm dreaming? I reach out with one arm and yank him into a hard hug, kissing the side of his head as he laughs.

Thank you. I'm so sorry, Zayn. I fucked up once more, but I promise you I won't do it again, I impishly smirk, not intentionally anyway! I love you. You're my family, my Brother. Please forgive me? I say so only he can hear. Zayn pulls back and nods before slapping me on the back a couple of times.

I pull back further and bend to kiss Chey again. She smiles against my lips. Are you really here? Or am I dreaming this, Baby? I've been so lost, I openly admit as her eyes soften and she caresses my cheek. I exhale and kiss her palm, absorbing her touch, scent and taste.

She smiles sweetly. It's real; you have found me so many times ... it was my turn to find you. Hope you don't mind I brought along some of your friends? We look around, surrounded by everyone. I shake my head.

Thank you, Baby... so much! I start to cry, and I don't fucking care. She grabs my face gently and kisses my cheeks and eyelids.

No more... we are one remember. We will be together; this is our time. I nod and kiss her hard.

Chey, I don't deserve- I begin as I'm interrupted.

Fuck, get a room! Dom shouts over the music. We smile against each other's lips. I turn and look, and he's holding Shannon's hand. I raise my eyebrows.

Promised you'd thank me! she states smugly. I grab and hug her hard.

Thank you so much, Shannon. You're the best sister ever. She looks at me and smiles.

You're the best brother. Have you been crying? she looks confused. I gently shove her.

I wrap my arm around Zayn's neck and tug Chey beside me as we leave the dance floor. My world is right again. I won't ever fuck up again, so help me.

2. I must be Dreaming

Cheyenne

Sitting on Jay's lap while drinking water and playing with his ring is the absolute best New Year's I could have asked for. He hasn't taken his eyes off of me. You're staring! I tease.

He smiles his full-on crooked grin with dimples and all as he chuckles. When I first saw him standing out in the crowd, he looked awful. Tired, deflated and worn. His face was ashen, with a look of disbelief. It scared the hell out of me as we have only been apart for a couple of weeks. And yet, that time has taken a toll on him as I knew it would.

I know. He kisses me again for the hundredth time in the last twenty minutes. How, when, who... he stutters as we all laugh. I didn't think anyone cared, he discloses softly. I frown momentarily before smiling again.

Everyone cares, Jay, I voice just as soft. He brings my knuckles to his lips and kisses them tenderly. His eyes shift as if trying to believe it before he focuses on Ailbe and smiles.

Did they know? Jay nods toward his Irish mates, who are currently occupied with Carm and Autumn. I laugh, and I shake my head no.

The day we left Vegas, that night ... after I found your letter, I take a needed moment as my siblings watch me. Rethinking my mindset, I smile tightly. I decide what is best for me, I glance at Zayn and Dayzee as they lower their heads. Jay looks at them, then back at me with question etched into his handsome face. That goes for you too, his jaw twitches as he nods once. I've been alone for many years, Jay, and it's no life ... not when you are privy to such love, I smile again. He nods as his eyebrows furrow and his jaw clenches. So, we devised a plan. I run my hand through his longer, unruly hair bringing him back to me. I'm worried as happy as he seems, he's still distant from me.

Yeah, we had to wait for Billy, Mel, Carm and Autumn to get their work in order because we are family, and we all needed to be here to support you both, Zayn pipes in with a smirk. I smile at my brother, and he winks at me. I feel Jay sigh. I turn back to continue to play with Jay's inky black hair as he runs his fingers down my cheek. His mesmerizing emerald green eyes warm but still hold a hint of uncertainty. We will discuss our time in Vegas once we're alone. I smile for now, as I'm relieved to back in his arms.

I kept in touch with Shannon, spoke with her almost every day for the first week. I smile at her, raising my eyebrows releasing a tiny giggle. Jay turns and growls. Stop! They know what they're doing. Dom and Shannon are necking like teenagers. Anyway, I wanted to know how you were. I missed you. I run my hands down his rock-solid chest as I smile sadly, thinking back. He leans in and whispers something against my lips in Irish before kissing me. I blush as he inhales and smiles again.

When did you get here? he strokes my cheek with the back of his rough knuckle. I smile.

A week ago, everyone else arrived late last night.

What? he questions with disbelief. Where have you been? I laugh.

I'm staying in Dublin now, but I was staying at Shannon's up until you showed up two days ago. I even slept in your bed! He chuckles with uncertainty, but I know him better than anyone. This big guy has lots of explaining to do - in time. His eyes lock with mine, and I'd bet my life that he knows what I'm thinking. He scratches his unshaven jaw, which is more pronounced due to the light covering of hair.

I thought I imagined your scent! he remarks, still lost in thought as I laugh. He kisses me sweetly and smiles. I respond by running my hands down the back of his neck softly like I've done a million times in the past. He quietly groans as I smile more.

The kids brought me to their favourite places during the day, I say smugly. Shannon and I hung out chatting and looking through photos of you guys at night ... it's been great actually, I lean in and kiss him softly again ... mmm, apples. Then, I suddenly pull back and ask with humour, Did you enjoy the lemon cake I made you?

He's stunned; I can read him so well. He smiles slowly and nods. Aye, it was the best I ever had, my love, my heart swells as I lean in, kissing him again. He deepens the kiss, sliding his hand up my thigh. I moan into his mouth before breaking to smile at him.

That is going to have to wait, I quietly whisper into his ear. He looks confused and then catches on with a devilish gleam in his eyes. Yes! There's my Jay.

Another first? he raises his eyebrow. I smack his chest as he laughs so freely and with happiness.

Ewww, no way! He tickles me as I scream with laughter. The DJ starts to count down to New Years'. We all stand and raise our drinks, looking at one another, smiling and laughing. My eyes lock with Jay's to find him smiling and bouncing in his spot. I love you, Jacob O'Reilly... always, I voice seriously. You promised never to leave me. Don't leave me again, even when I'm pissed. Stay. Please, I plead on cracked emotion.

He grabs me and kisses me hard as we ring in the New Year. Everyone is cheering and kissing, and once again, Jay and I are lost within our own world. Then, he pulls away with a deep, emotional look.

You listen to me. I will never fuck up like that again, I promise you. These past two weeks were harder for me than the last seven years we were apart. I frown and lower my head, feeling awful. He lifts my chin and smiles, No, Chey, I fucked up, not you. You were right. I love you so fuckin' much that the thought of someone touching you drives me insane. I never saw it the other way around until you said it. I never thought I truly meant that much to you. I shake my head. I'm not finished, he bites his lower lip, causing me to smile.

He smiles slowly. I know now, and I will never let my temper, jealousy, or my gigantic fuckin' ego get in the way of us again. I promise. I giggle. Oh, Baby, how I have missed that giggle, he smiles my smile. I love you so fuckin' much, Cheyenne O'Reilly... always, forever, eternity. I jump him and wrap my thighs around his waist as he hauls me up. I kiss down his jaw to his neck only to hear his groan as he kneads my ass.

I think we should go now, I whisper in his ear. He smiles as I press butterfly kisses on his neck. He tastes so good.

Clearing his throat, Jay announces, So, we are going to leave... Happy New Year. See you tomorrow. I laugh and wave. They all laugh. Zayn, Heath and Dayzee blow me kisses. Jay sets me down and grabs my hand, and pulls me out of the pub.

Where are you staying? he nonchalantly asks while heading toward a very expensive-looking car. I know cars, and this is an Aston Martin Vanquish Coupe Carbon Black Edition. Holy Fuck. He opens the door for me, and I can't help the unsure smile that crosses my lips. Tomorrow, not tonight. After seeing where Shannon lives and now this car, ya, we will need to talk about Jay's worth. I thought about asking Shannon but chose not to. I didn't want to make things awkward, and really, Jay should tell me. I slide in and sigh. Oh. My. God. I'm sitting in an Aston Martin. He runs around the front and jumps in. He grabs his leather jacket from behind his seat and slips it over my shoulders.

Uhmm ... I clear my throat as I try to wrap my head around this car. Why am I so surprised? The man bought me a $160,000 custom motorcycle. So, of course, his car would be an Aston. We are staying at The Maribelle Hotel, do you know it? I smile small, inhaling the scent of Jay's jacket. He smiles and shakes his head.

Aye, I know it. He pushes a button, and the beast roars to life. Oh. My. God.

You know, you didn't have to rent such a fancy car to impress me, I joke out of discomfort. Breathe, it's still Jay. He bellows with laughter, which makes me laugh too. I have missed that. Focus on us. Deal with the other shit later.

Cheyenne, you are unbelievable, he pulls out and heads north toward the M11. It's so pretty here. I can't wait to venture out more and begin to take in this beautiful island. I look back at Jay and wonder when we should talk about what happened with Amanda. Is it even warranted at this point? I shake my head and frown in contemplation. What are you shaking your head about? He reaches over, laying his hand on my thigh. I grab his hand, lacing it with my fingers.

Just happy to be here. I can't wait to go exploring. I look around the car and feel a little out of my comfort. Since everyone has to fly back home tomorrow night, we should do something special before they leave. No dancing or singing, please, I uncomfortably joke as I try to calm myself. He owns an Aston Martin!!!! He laughs and nods.

Okay, I'll figure something out. He's quiet for a moment. Cheyenne, we need to talk about...

I know ... and we will. I squeeze his hand as I shift to look at him in the dim light of the dashboard.

His eyes meet mine, ladled with unsullied concern. We are not putting it off Chey, he looks back towards the road. Not this time. Not ever again. If we have something to say, we say it. He rubs down his face with his hand before continuing, I... won't risk fuckin' up...

Jacob, I stop him as he physically begins to panic. I've never seen this behaviour from him. But then again, we've been apart, and this is the first time I came after him. He didn't have time to prepare and ready himself before reconnecting with me. The realization of what Jay goes - went through in my absence is beginning to hit home. He looks at me once again as I smile warmly. Are you familiar with the song I sang to you just now? He looks away once again.

No, he gravely murmurs.

Do you know why I choose that song to sing to you? He shakes his head as sombreness engulfs his face further. I smile, It's called Bottom of the River by Delta Rae. It's intense, but I knew that song would speak to you. I was worried you would hide and eventually find your grey place as I did. I wanted to be your light and pull you back before that happened as you did for me. He looks at me and begins to slow the car, pulling over to the side of the freeway as vehicles whiz past us. I look around, confused. Finally, he unbuckles my seatbelt and pulls me onto his lap.

Oh, Baby, do you know the depths of what you just said? I nod.

Yeah, I do. I lived it, Jay, for way too long, I look in his eyes. From what I'm witnessing right now with your behaviour... I moisten my lips and inhale. Don't you ever leave me again, Jacob? If you promise me something, you best damn better be prepared to follow through. I stammer out as tears well in my eyes once again

Hey, he guiltily smiles while caressing my cheek. I only did what I thought was best for you, he softly begins before I frown and shake my head.

I know, my lips tremble as tears begin to drip once again. He pulls me into a warm embrace as we sit quietly, taking in the moment. Disregard the fact that we're parked alongside one of a very busy throughway or that the air around us is sweltering with unimaginable vitality. Our hearts and moods are heavy with raw emotion.

I pull back slightly, meeting his eyes. Your letter scared me, Jacob, he looks away as I move his face to look at me again. I ... uhmm, had a dream soon after I found your ring, and it was the day after my 16th birthday ... do you remember? he nods as I caress his cheek. Something resonated during that dream, and when I woke, I realized that no matter what happens between us, we are one. I softly smile as he tucks a loose lock behind my ear. We were then, I whisper out on a choked breath, as he nods profusely, agreeing. I knew the longer I was away, the further you would fall. We don't function well without each other, sure we can exist and laugh when it's expected, but we don't live. We don't fully breathe, I look in his eyes. We sure as hell don't love.

He kisses me hard and long. I run my hands down his chest, and he groans, pulling away. I thought you'd be better off without me. I thought that since you haven't called that, you hated me and that my temper and fighting had finally ruined us, he lowly admits as he looks so remorseful. I don't deserve you.

Jacob! Stop saying that. I know I said it, and I was wrong, and I was pissed. We deserve each other, Christ. We've been through too much. I play with his hair and say seriously. You need to stop fighting ... you are no longer a boy. I was not too fond of it then. I hate it more now, especially since that is the reason you went to prison. So promise me, no more fighting, Jay.

He looks at me, contemplating my words and nods. No more fighting, I promise you, Chey.

Thank you. As for your jealousy and gigantic ego, I smirk as Jay huffs with slight amusement. I don't mind that so much; it's your edge and who you are. I don't want you to change. I just don't want to see you hurt someone or get hurt yourself, he nods again, listening to me intently. Good. Now that that's out of the way, you big guy is stuck with me, forever. You and I are one, and I am never leaving your side, so get used to it. I smile and kiss the corner of his mouth.

He murmurs in Irish while tracing my lips with his finger. I listen intently to the words and smile with a teasing grin when he's finished.

I expect you will worship me, as I will you! I surprise the shit out of him before he smiles slowly.

How?

I've been studying since Zayn's wedding, I admit with a bite to my lip. And Johnny has been a great teacher too! I shrug. Was I right?

Aye, for the most part, he offers a proud grin before shifting me back in my seat. Cheyenne, I promise I will never touch another ever again. I was wrong to let her touch me, and I her. I'm deeply sorry, and I will spend the rest of our lives making up for it, I nod and look away.

Jacob, it's fine. Really. He waits until I'm buckled until he merges back into traffic. It's still somewhat raw; him with Amanda in the lobby. Her eyes and how she looked at him. I could never compete with someone like that.

It's not, and I will prove that no one matters but you, I smile and link my arm around his. I decide to let it go. Jay's face says it all. I'm sure he's sorry, and there is no reason to keep bringing it up. It's over. We all make mistakes, and- I shake my head, ridding my thoughts of a time where I wasn't exactly truthful or upfront. No, it's better to let it go.

We drive in silence the rest of the way. Why? It's unknown but not uncomfortable. It's somewhat comforting, knowing we are back together. I sigh a happy sound as Jay pulls upfront of the posh hotel. It's buzzing with people, being New Years'. He jumps out of the car and talks briefly to the doorman before opening my door. He reaches for my hand, which I gladly give to him. We smile at each other and enter the lobby. We walk through the large white marble atrium as happiness engulfs me once again. My heels click away as I'm practically skipping.

Good evening Mrs. O'Reilly, Happy New Year! The young man at the counter chimes as I smile and wave.

To you too, Steven, don't work too hard. He smiles and then looks at Jay, and something in his eyes has him dropping his head down to busy himself. Jay, you intimidate everyone.

Aye, that's it. He smiles at me. Where we going? I'm practically bouncing; he chuckles. Like this hotel, my love? he asks as he wraps his arm around my waist.

Yes, very much. It's so romantic, with that old-world charm. It has the modern touches that I crave, but I feel like I'm transported back in time. Oh, and wait until you see the courtyard from the rooftop terrace. It's breathtaking.

The roof? he smiles slowly.

Yeah, I'm in the Penthouse... big mix-up, I guess. Shannon made all the arrangements, and when I got here, they insisted that I take the Penthouse. Great service, I nod as Jay cracks up. What? I laugh with him.

Nothing, Baby, I just love you so much. The elevator doors open. Please, lead the way, he waves his arm to allow me to enter.

The minute the doors close, he has me up in his arms with my legs wrapped around his waist while I grab his hair. Our eyes meet first, with such love, and then our lips collide. I moan as he enters. The sweet velvet sweep of his tongue is enough to start my building need. Pulling away, I bite my lip, slightly embarrassed about behaving this way while on my monthly. Jay! I breathlessly pant as he kisses down my jaw, nibbling and sucking. Jay, we can't... we need to stop.

No. I giggle and pull back. Hey, I'm busy here trying to love my wife. I smile at the sound of the word wife.

I can't, I lower my head. The elevator doors open as he turns and walks out with me in his strong arms. He hangs a left and heads down the hallway. Lifting my chin, he smiles my smile.

There are many ways to make love... I'll gladly show you, he voices in his sexy as hell voice.

I smack my mouth against his, ripping a groan from well within him. Reaching into the top of my dress, I pull out the room key, our lips never leaving one another's. I giggle into our kiss as I try to unlock the door without looking. He takes the key and slides it in, and the door opens. The entrance is bright with whimsical wallpaper with a wraparound staircase as its focal point. The main living areas are upstairs, whereas the bedrooms and bathrooms are on the lower level.

Make a left at the end of the hall, I direct as I lightly suck on his neck. The double doors are open. My bed has been turned down, with minor sidelight left on to cascade over the room. The fireplace is lit and the main focus in this room. It sits directly in front of the large king-size bed.

Jay lies us down on the bed and starts kissing down my body. Wait, I need to... freshen up first and get out of this dress.

Mmmm, I'll help you, he drops to his knees on the floor as I sit up. He slowly unzips one of my thigh-high boots, groaning as he does it.

You like? I ask innocently, knowing he damn well does! He looks at me. His eyes are full of lust and want. Fuck me!

You know what leather does to me, Baby. I laugh, yeah! I know. I thought you were only going to wear it in the bedroom. Only for me? he removes my boot and softly messages my foot before moving onto the second one.

Mmmm, that feels good, I fall back on the bed. I had to get your attention, love. I knew leather, in particular, this outfit would do it.

His mouth hovers over mine when I open my eyes. I smile slowly, as does he. How many times do I need to tell you? It doesn't matter what you wear, what you try. You will always be the most beautiful lady to have walked this earth. He kisses me briefly. Besides, I will always find you. I felt you tonight in the pub. I thought I was going crazy. I was walking out the door, Chey, when I heard your voice. You said, 'Anastasia,' he lowers his eyes for a brief moment. Then you started to sing, and I looked, and there you were. My broken heart mended instantly.

I grab him hard and kiss him breathlessly, rolling him over to straddle his thighs. His hands fall to my hips, completely freezing my actions. Within a moment, he notices, sitting up. Baby?

3. Bloody Hell!

Jacob

I need to get changed, she gives me a quick peck on the cheek before I'm left alone on the bed. Fuck! I watch as she closes the door to the bathroom behind her. Sitting up, I nod and move toward my girl. No way am I letting her have doubts that I have planted. When I open the door, I find her looking in the mirror. Her expression is desolate as she scrutinizes herself. Inwardly sighing, I hate myself once again for making my wife hurt.

Chey, what is it? Her eyes move to meet mine as we gaze at each other through the glass.

I ... I'm trying to tell myself that Amanda was nothing. That you were drunk, and even though you grabbed her hips and she wore your clothes, that she meant nothing. Her forehead bunches in contemplation. She was so damn beautiful and thin, Jay, I can't compare. She looks away while lowering her head. I can't help it, sorry. It's just, she shrugs, you never looked at anyone... but me in all the time we were together. Not even as kids, not until that night. I don't know; I need time, I guess.

I'm a fucking moron, I swear. I nod as I think back to that awful night that bled into the morning, reliving the events often as it is.

She starts to undo her dress, but I need to fix this and now. Taking three steps, I begin to unlace the back corset as her hands fall away. I take my time and smile softly at her through the mirror, all the while caressing her perfect, immaculate skin. Once the dress is undone, I