Resisting Perfection (The Perfection Series Book 2) Read online

  “I know you’re trying to make me feel guilty but I did what I had to do. I can’t knowingly work for someone who wants nothing to do with their child. You know what? I don’t owe you any further explanation. Fenton and I no longer work for you, so what we do is none of your business.”

  For the first time, I feel confident in my decision to leave James. When I left, I just knew it was going to be the end of the world. Now, I have a brand new job and a chance at real happiness with Fenton when we get this situation squared away. I know it’s not going to be easy but if my reward for keeping a low profile is Fenton, then it’s worth it.

  I’m actually glad I don’t have to see his disgusting face any longer. If he thinks I believe for a minute he was here discussing me, he’s crazy. I may be young but I’m not stupid. We already parted ways, why re-hash it? I walk passed him without another word. I’m sure his holier than thou feelings are hurt but as much as he’s put us through the last few days, he doesn’t deserve any more of my breath. I march out of the café without looking back and with a renewed confidence.

  I step out onto the cement stairwell and take a deep breath of fresh air. I have been questioning everything around me the last few weeks so the small things in life, like fresh air, can’t be taken for granted. I take my time walking back to my car as I want the rest of the afternoon to be as enjoyable as the last hour although it makes me sad that we can’t be with each other when we want. He is the only man I’ve ever known that can make my body respond with just a look or by him simply speaking. I get goose bumps just thinking about what he can do with his hands. They are so strong and good Lord can he work those fingers. A flash of heat moves through me and I decide I need to halt this line of thinking. I will take comfort in knowing we will be together whenever it’s safe and knowing he really does want to be with me. That’s all I need.

  I slide into the driver seat and as I am starting the car, I remember the note that he left this morning. I briefly wonder if he still wants me to meet him. He didn’t mention anything, so I can only assume he does. I wish I would’ve remembered to ask him about it while we were together but apparently I’m unable to form a coherent though when he’s around. Excitement begins coursing through me at the thought of seeing him again. I haven’t told him this but that night at his house was probably one of the best nights of my life. I yearn for those intimate moments, when it’s just him and me making our own rules. People believe Fenton is a failure but they don’t really know him. He’s had to figure so much out on his own and put a life together from nothing. To me, he is stronger than someone who has had everything handed to him. I envy his strength and endurance and I to show him.

  While backing out of the parking spot, I take off for the interstate but the sound of a flopping tire puts a stop to that. I stop in the middle of the parking garage, while cars are honking and people are screaming, to check my tire. Sure enough, the damn thing is flat as a pancake. I try to inspect it to see if I’ve driven over a screw or nail and find a small slash across the top. Why the hell would someone…

  “Piper, what are you doing here?”

  I bump my head on the fender well as I lift up to see who is talking to me.

  “Be careful, Pipe,” he says and the sound of his voice gives me goose bumps. He is the last person I want to be around right now.

  “Shane, what are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be working?”

  “I had a lunch meeting.” So did everyone else in the fucking world it seems.

  “Great, well it was nice to see you.”

  “Do you need help with that tire?”

  “No, I can handle it thank you.” Please take the hint and leave.

  “So, are you going to be around later?”

  I stand to grab my tire changing paraphernalia but stop before opening my trunk.

  “Shane, listen, there is nothing I want more than for you to get yourself well. I do have something to do about seven but if you want to meet me at the house a little before that, we can talk.” His smile grows the length of his face and I’m reminded of the old days when seeing him smile made me happy. Now, as much as I want to tell myself we can be the same as we were, I don’t know how that is going to happen. So much has happened. It’s going to take a while to get somewhere even close to where we were.

  “I only ask for a few minutes, I can’t expect anymore from you. Are you sure you don’t need any help with the tire?” He’s eyeing the tire iron in my hand and I can tell he is itching for me to ask him for help which will not happen.

  “Now that everyone has quit honking and got the hint, I think I will be ok. Thank you for the offer,” I say, hoping he takes the hint and is on his way.

  “You’re welcome. Hey, see you later,” he says, with a grin. I wave and watch him walk out of the parking lot.

  Fenton

  Splintered wood, shards of glass, frightened faces, bloodied hands, loud police sirens and madness all assault me when I walk into the warzone that is my bar. I spot Camille in the corner talking to an officer and make my way in their direction.

  “Fenton?” someone behind me calls. I continue walking without turning as I’m too busy to deal with anyone other than Cam right now.

  “Fenton, please talk to me,” the voice calls again and this time I turn towards her. I’m surprised to see Phoebe standing there, arms crossed, with a less than excited expression on her face.

  “What are you doing here? Who let you in this is a crime scene?”

  “I was here when everything happened and I have been cleared to leave already. I stayed because I wanted to talk to you.”

  “Uh, I don’t want to be rude but I just got here and need to talk with the police myself. Is Piper alright?”

  “Well that is why I was here to begin with. I’m worried about her. You really messed her up, you know?”

  Damn it! I can’t deal with this right now. And I sure can’t tell her what is going on.

  “Is she physically alright, Phoebe? I am kind of busy.”

  “Physically, yes, but the phone call I just received from her has me on edge.”

  “Give me just a second ok?” She nods and I walk over to let Camille know I’m here but I will be right back in. She is shaken, and rightly so, but agrees to stay with the police a little longer. I’ve never been anxious to talk to Phoebe but something tells me she isn’t going to be delivering good news. We walk outside to talk. My heart is racing at what could possibly have happened in the short time I haven’t been with her.

  “What’s going on?”

  “Well, I know you two had a falling out after whatever happened to your friend. As much as it hurts her, I think you leaving her was for the best. She must be having nightmares because I hear her cry out in the middle of the night. That’s something that she will have to handle but I just wanted to paint the picture of what you created. For some reason, she thinks she still has a chance with you. I told her that was absurd that once men like you move on, they don’t come back.”

  “I’m going to stop you right there. First, my relationship with Piper is no one’s business…”

  “I’m getting there and I would appreciate if you would listen to me,” she interrupts me.

  “It’s not that I don’t want to listen to you, Phoebe, but I kind of have a situation to deal with.”

  “Shane came by this morning wanting to make amends with Piper. I know he’s made some bad decisions but I truly believe he is what she needs right now.”

  “I know you mean well but you really don’t know what’s best for her. Especially if you believe Shane is the best choice for her. He strangled her, for crying out loud. I know I’m not Prince Charming but I have never nor will I ever lay a hand on her. Now, can you please get to the part about Piper’s phone call?”

  “What really has me concerned is her safety. I thought maybe it was just in my head and that is why I came to talk to you. I needed you to assure me she would be alright, that you would make sure she is ok. T
hen while I was waiting to talk to you, this lunatic in a mask came in and opened fire. Your bar, Fenton. I was here to question my sister and your safety and someone shoots up your bar. So, that tells me my fears are justified.”

  “Can you please just get to the phone call from Piper? I am not interested in your opinion of your sister’s love life with me.” She wants to damn me to hell but Shane can put his hands on her and he is the savior.

  “She told me she had a lunch meeting for a job. It must have gone well because she has been gone an awful long time. But she called me a little while ago to let me know Shane would be over in a little bit and that she had a flat tire and would be there soon.”

  “People have flat tires, Phoebe.” Even as the words leave my mouth, my heart is racing with concern. It can’t be a coincidence that all of this happened today but I am not going to discuss that with Phoebe the Great and have her tell me what a piece of shit I am for putting her sister in danger.

  “If I had not witnessed what I just went through at your bar, I would have thought the same, Fenton. You can’t tell me you are not the least bit concerned about this.”

  “Look, I’m very sorry you were here when everything happened but I am having a hard time believing the two incidents were connected. Even so, I will call Piper and check on her. Thank you for informing me.”

  I’m beginning to believe she is just as safe with me as she is without me. However, I’m going to stick with my original plan and I’m going to have to try a little harder to stay away from her. Or try a little harder not to get caught. I believe I like the second decision best.

  “I think you need to do more than call her!” she screams.

  “Please don’t raise your voice. I’m trying to handle this as best as I can. If you think Shane is all mighty why aren’t you spewing your venom at him until he saves her?”

  “You are such an asshole, Fenton. For some reason Piper believes you are something to hang onto, that’s why I came to you first but I see that was a mistake. You listen to me, though. If you get her hurt, you will have to answer to me, remember that.” As much as I don’t want to like that girl, she is only looking out for Piper, so I can’t be too upset with her.

  Phoebe walking away pissed doesn’t make me as happy as I had originally thought. Yes, that girl is a virus but she loves her sister, so I can’t fault her for that. However, I can’t believe she thinks Shane is what Piper needs. Even if I’m not the best choice for her, Shane sure as hell isn’t.

  “Piper, please call and tell me you’re ok. Your sister was just here and was worried because you had a flat tire. I know, it sounded crazy to me, too. But I just want to make sure you’re ok. Also, I want to get your opinion on changing a tire with no panties. Call me, love.” Wow, what a visual that is. She can teach me how to change a tire naked any day.

  “Fenton James?” an officer calls as he’s coming out of the door. I quickly readjust myself before he can see what I am doing.

  “Yes, I’m Fenton. What have you found out?”

  “Not much. We were hoping you could help us figure that out?” He pulls his small notebook from his pocket and begins writing something before looking back up to me expectantly.

  “Well, I wasn’t here, so I’m not sure what help I can be.”

  “Are you having any issues with anyone?”

  “Not that I know of.” Sweat begins beading on the back of my neck. I’m always nervous talking with officers. I’ve had my fair share of them in my lifetime, some good most bad. Even when I’m completely innocent there is just something in the back of my mind that screams they are taking me in anyway.

  “Ok. Have you had any issues with break-ins or anything of that nature?”

  “No. I’ve only recently acquired the property but I haven’t had any issues. Did you collect the surveillance?”

  “We did. We will take it to the station for review. Would you want to come to the station with us and take a look?”

  “Yeah, that would be fine. Let me talk with my bar manager and make sure she’s ok?”

  “Sure, come when you can. We’ll get some preliminary paperwork ready until then.”

  “Sounds good, thank you,” I say, while we shake.

  Before I pull the door open, I mentally prepare myself for what I am walking into. I wish I had known the first time. Even though I knew something happened I never dreamed it was this and it made me sick to this place in such bad shape. I’ve worked so hard to make this place what it is only to have someone ravage it in such a short time. I scan the bar, getting angrier and angrier as I look at the wreckage. I kick glass out of the way and pick up the larger pieces as I pass them.

  “Please don’t touch anything, Mr. James. Everything is evidence.”

  “Oh, sorry,” I say, as I drop the glass. “Can I go to my office?”

  “No, actually if you can leave the building that would be best. We don’t want anything contaminated.”

  “Ok. Camille, let’s go out back.” She nods, grabs her purse from underneath the bar and follows me out back. As soon as the door closes behind her, she lights up.

  “Got an extra?” I ask. She nods and hands me her pack and the lighter.

  “Fenton, you need to get this shit under control. I’m willing to stand by your side but I am not willing to get fucking shot!” she says through gritted teeth as tears slide down her cheeks. I pull her to me and feel her heart practically pounding out of her chest.

  “Did Marla ever show up?”

  “No.”

  “That’s interesting. As much as I wanted to believe Marla would be of any help, I think I was wrong and I’m going to have to go about this a different way.”

  “Well, whatever way you need to go about this, do it fast!” she says as she pulls out of my embrace.

  “What did you tell the police?”

  “The truth. Some masked mad man busted in the door and opened fire not caring who was in there. They were aiming for whatever was moving. I was so scared, Fenton. I hid. Instead of trying to help anyone else, I hid under the bar like a coward. What kind of person am I?” She begins shaking and the fear in her eyes pisses me off. I don’t know who is doing this but I need to find out fast.

  “Hey, you did what any other person would have done, tried to keep yourself alive. When someone has a gun, there isn’t much you can do without getting shot. Don’t say you’re a coward because you’re not!” I pull her to me and continue comforting her. Her small body is shaking and she is now sobbing. The guilt that I’ve lived with for so many years, that has become my best friend returns and I want to punch that motherfucker in the face. I won’t have anyone else hurt on my watch.

  “Listen…” I say, pulling her away so I can look her eye to eye. “I need to get out of here and go to the police station. I’m going to close the bar once the detectives leave but I want you to go home and get some rest. I will handle things here. Andy is there to keep you company”

  “I can handle it, Fenton. You go and talk to the police like you are supposed to do.”

  “Are you sure? It’s my bar. I should be the one to handle this. You’ve been through hell, you have to be scared.”

  “I want to catch the bastards who keep doing this, so please go and help the police. I’ve told them everything I know.”

  “Ok, but if you need me you better fucking call me, Camille. I mean it. I’ll be right here.” She nods in understanding. The inner turmoil I’m feeling about leaving her here by herself is ripping me apart. I want to soothe her then send her home. She is as dedicated to this bar as I am and she doesn’t deserve to be treated this way. However, she has always been tough as nails, if anyone can handle it she can.

  I pull her to me one last time before I leave. I don’t know what I would’ve done if something had happened to her. She has been one of the few constants in my life and I would never forgive myself if something happened to her.

  She’s finally stopped shaking and isn’t crying anymore. That makes my d
ecision a little easier. I blow out a breath and walk back in the bar. It’s been a long time since she and I have been in a relationship. But no matter the time, I never want her hurt or scared to be around me.

  Once I’m back inside, in the mess that used to be the bar, I make a mental note to call someone to clean this place up. No way am I going to subject Camille to the torture of cleaning up a mess that could have potentially killed her. I’m a bastard but I’m not evil.

  “Camille, who knows this place just as good if not better than me, will be staying here to assist you until you are finished while I go to the police station, if that is ok?” I ask one of the investigators. When he nods, I take that as permission to leave.

  I check the tires of the truck before I leave. Apparently, I’m going to have to be paranoid no matter where I am or what I’m doing. My phone buzzes as I’m stepping in the truck. Relief pours over me when I see who it is.

  “Hey beautiful, how’s the tire?”

  “The tire is changed, thanks to this nice guy that helped this poor, innocent girl change a big ole tire.” She chuckles when she hears me growl. “He gave me his card and told me to call him if I ever needed anything. Wasn’t that so nice of him, Fenton?”

  “Keep it up, babe. I’ll show you a nice man!”

  “Oh, but I want you to show me a big, strong and jealous man, he is so much more fun!”

  “My, my, aren’t you feisty today. Feisty Piper is my favorite. She needs to visit more often,” I joke. “Listen, I’m glad your tire is changed and you are ok but let me call you back in a little bit.”

  “Ok, is everything alright?”

  “Yeah, I was getting ready to head to a meeting. I will call you when I’m finished and we can continue this conversation about you and this jealous man, ok?”

  “Oh, I can’t wait. Bye, Fent.”

  “Bye, baby.” Man it feels good to talk to her again. As stressful as today has been, just one conversation with her and I forget everything that is going on. Why I thought I could stay away from her, I have no idea. I need her like plants need water. Without her, I can’t survive. No matter that we’ve only been together for a short time, when it’s right, it’s right. And I can tell life with her is absolutely right.