TWISTED FATES BOOK 1: THE FIRST TWIST Read online

  "Sorry, Jareth, these two beautiful, smart asses are my dear friends, Shay De Rocher and Astrid Spencer. Ladies, this is Jareth - "

  "Mickelsen. Tis’ a pleasure to make the acquaintance of two such lovely creatures," he interjected as he smiled at them both. Gracefully he removed his arm from my waist and greeted my girls by bestowing a kiss upon each of their hands.

  And now they're blushing. See, people, it's not just me; this guy knows how to charm the ladies.

  "I hate to be the bearer of bad news, GF," Astrid managed, finally bring herself to say, "but it's about that time, Sammie, and pretty sure your Uber is gonna be arriving soon, hon. You ready to go, or do you need more alone time with Romeo?"

  Shit.

  Quite sure my friends sensed the forlorn look on my face because they decided to go ahead say their farewells. Of course, that was after they made sure that I promised to text them once I arrived home safely, which we all know is code for wanting the deets on Mr. Sexy Pants later on. After a quick hug, I watched them make their way through the diminishing crowd and depart beyond my field of view.

  **********************************************************

  Jareth and I managed to slip away from the nightclub's confines and made our way outside the club. The streetlamps illuminated the sidewalk as we reached the curb where I would wait for my Uber to arrive. Like a true gentleman, Jareth offered to keep me company me until its arrival.

  I turned to face Jareth, whom I could tell was just as despondent about my imminent departure as I was. Sadly, since I barely knew the guy, I was not about to make myself out to be some floozy by sleeping with him tonight, even though my body was more than willing to see what surprises he had underneath his black attire.

  God what is wrong with me, I never even think about sleeping with someone I literally just met and yet I'm thinking like a horny teenager. This man has some serious sexy mojo going on.

  We were standing facing each other mere inches apart.

  "Jareth," I looked down, fidgeting with my hands when I spoke so that I wouldn't get sucked back into his mesmerizing cobalt blue eyes.

  "Sorry, my friends interrupted us, but they were right. It's late, and I really should be getting home, but I'd like to exchange phone numbers if you are so inclined, perhaps? In case you maybe wanted to meet again?"

  I know, really eloquent.

  When I looked up, I saw Jareth's head was tilted at an angle, and his brow was creased as if he was pondering my words inscrutably. He had such a poker face at that moment that I wasn't quite sure how he would respond to the word vomit I had just pathetically spewed from my lips.

  Shit, Shit, Shit - I think I just totally misread his intentions. He was probably only interested in a quick hook up, not swapping numbers with me. Ish. So embarrassing.

  "Well ... OK then, I guess I'll just see ya around. Sorry for putting you on the spot. It's cool ... just forget I said anything, b- "

  My words were cut off as Jareth suddenly bowed his tall frame forward and surprised me with the most mind-blowing kiss. It was slow and tender at first, but as my lips parted and our tongues began intertwining with such eagerness, I found myself letting out an uncontrollable whimper when I tried to catch my breath.

  This time it was Jareth who put the brakes on our passionate entanglement as he gently removed his soft lips from mine and stepped back to allow some space between us. Well aware that he was just as aroused as I was, I could tell that Jareth was trying to be respectful of my wishes. Oddly though, he looked at me and seemed almost unsure of my receptiveness towards him

  "Please pardon my indiscretions, Samantha,” he uttered, "I could not refrain from indulging myself. I hope you don't think me too forward for kissing you."

  Are you freaking kidding me!! Was he apologizing for being too forward? Who is this guy am I right?

  Attentively, I rested my hand on his rather solid chest and shook my head. "You have nothing to apologize for. That kiss was so awesome, Jareth!"

  Awesome ...awesome? Way to sound desperate, Sammie. Ish.

  A warm smile pervaded his kissable lips.

  "Does that mean, it would be safe to assume, that I might call on you again? Perhaps I may escort you on a date at a more refined locale?" He asked bashfully.

  I giggled. This guy was fucking adorable.

  "Well, Mr. Jareth Mickelsen," I cooed, "I would love it very much if you did."

  We exchanged phone numbers just as my Uber approached the curb next to where we were standing. Jareth opened the car's back door, motioning me to get into the vehicle, and placed a soft kiss on my forehead before closing it. As the car drove away, I turned to look back from the back seat and see Jareth still standing where I had left him. He had the most genuine smile adorning his handsome face.

  Feeling giddy from the night's events, I leaned my head back into the headrest and sighed. Within a few moments, I noticed that I had received a text message from Jareth.

  Thank you for making this a most memorable evening, Samantha. I count the days until we meet again. Yours Jareth

  Yep, this one's a keeper.

  Sigh.

  Chapter 12

  3rd Person POV

  Sammie was enjoying her third date with Jareth at one of her favorite establishments, Manny's Steakhouse. They had just finished their meal and were enjoying a glass of wine; until they were rudely interrupted by a loud group of very intoxicated brawny men a few tables away closer to the bar.

  Shit! Sammie thought, recognizing the rowdy group's main protagonist to be none other than Justin, her former WWF patient/lover. She tried to avert her eyes and pretend that she hadn't seen him; meanwhile, her discomfort was making itself quite perceptible to her dinner date.

  "Is something wrong, Samantha?" a concerned Jareth asked.

  Sensing her unease, Jareth tenderly reached across the table and placed his hand on top of hers, and began circling the back of her hand with his thumb.

  "N-no, Jareth, everything's fine." She answered, trying to put on her best casual smile, hoping that Justin and his friends ignored her and remained at their table.

  "Very well, Samantha, if you insist. Although, something most certainly seems to have troubled you. I shan't press further, but please know if there is anything I might be of assistance with -" Jareth responded worriedly.

  "I swear, Jareth, I'm fine. Promise." Sammie once again tried to reassure her date that nothing was afoot and smiled as she gave Jareth's hand a light squeeze. The last thing she needed was to scare him away with drama from her scandalous past.

  A small frown appeared on Jareth's lips as he dabbed the corners of his mouth with the linen napkin then stood up. "Well then, love, if you'll excuse me while I head to the privy and upon my return, why don't we set out to our movie a tad earlier?"

  "Sounds lovely, Jareth. I'll flag down the server and get the check while you're away."

  "No need, the bill has already been taken care of, love. I'll be back in a jiff."

  Jareth gave a quick nod and headed towards the men's room.

  Sammie bit her lip, feeling agitated. She could tell Jareth didn't buy her ruse, and it seemed to upset him that she wasn't forthcoming with him.

  Sammie sighed as she shifted in her seat, assuring herself that she only had to remain oblivious to Justin and his cronies until she and Jareth exited the building.

  Any second now, she internally chanted to herself.

  However, Sammie’s fears came true when a heavy, rugged hand was placed firmly on her bare shoulder. She shuttered at his touch.

  "Well, well, if it isn't Sammie Hunter in the flesh. Hello baby, don't tell me you've forgotten me already?" Justin slurred mockingly and sat himself down in the seat previously occupied by Jareth. "I mean, unless, of course, you just make it a fucking habit of yours to fuck your clients and break up relationships by sending photos and text messages to their girlfriends. If so, then yeah, I could see how a slut like you could easily not recognize me, Sammie."
>
  The heat began to rise in Sammie's cheeks. Justin did not make any attempt to restrain his booming voice. She was sure the nearby dinner guests overheard his cruel words. She felt humiliated and had to do something to diffuse Justin's belligerent ranting.

  "Justin," she regarded him coolly and retorted, "I have no idea what the hell you are talking about. I never sent anything to anyone other than letting you know I wasn't about to be played by a cheating douche like you. I also don't think this is the place, nor the time, for you to be causing a scene. If you want to blame me for your ass getting dumped, then you're sadly mistaken. That would have to mean that you held some significance to me, other than a human dildo, which you didn't. So, I truly don't appreciate – "

  "I don't give a FUCK what you appreciate, you lying bitch. I saw the texts and photos you sent to Candie," he growled menacingly as he leaned towards Sammie. His hot breath wreaked of alcohol." You are the reason my fiancée and I broke up. I always knew you were a who- "

  "Samantha." Jareth, who had suddenly appeared beside Justin, interjected. "Is this rake bothering you?"

  Justin stood up from where he was seated, looked Jareth's lean frame over, and scoffed. The man was a behemoth. At 6'7, he towered over Jareth, and yet, Jareth showed no sign of being intimidated as he rolled his eyes, unmistakably bored already.

  "Look here, pretty-boy, me and Sammie here have a little unfinished business to settle. Why don't you -" Justin went to poke Jareth in the chest, but Jareth's quick reflexes immediately intercepted his hand.

  "No." Jareth coldly spat, swatting Jareth's massive hand aside as if it were a mere fly buzzing in his direction. "Why don't YOU leave Samantha's sight this instant, and I promise things will go a lot more swimmingly for you. I assure you, I will only allow you this fortuitous opportunity once, as my patience is wearing quite ... thin."

  Justin looked down and glared at the cool, collected Jareth while he clenched his jaw and massive fists until his knuckles turned white. His equally brawny cohorts, who had been eyeing the situation, were suddenly looming nearby in the background. Jareth just shook his head and sighed, not bothering to acknowledge their daunting presence.

  The man was cool as a cucumber while Sammie was getting ready to dial 911. Jareth noticed Sammie reaching for her cell phone. He winked and shook his head, reassuring her that a call would be unnecessary.

  **********************************************************

  Sammie's POV

  Justin's overconfident manner reached full throttle. I mean, he was a big WWF fighter, and now he had his Gigantor friends as backup. Clearly, Jareth was no physical match for him, let alone all three of the big oafs. It was apparent Justin was not going to stop his tirade any time soon.

  "You know what, GQ ... I suggest you run along and wait till I'm done talking to the little skank here. When the adults are done talking, you can have her back then she can suck you off since I'm sure you're paying her good money for her services. I know I did. Besides, you don't want to piss me off, buddy. You have no idea who you're fucking with!"

  Seriously?! What a Douche! I gasped under my breath.

  "Regale me," Jareth haughtily countered, "who am I, as you so eloquently put it, fucking with? Because all I see is a pathetic human trying to intimidate a woman half his size. Which I must admit is rather pitiful. Is that whom I am fucking with, sir, a laughable wag?"

  Despite his challenging quip, Jareth looked as if he was trying to maintain his unruffled composure, yet his aura grew dark and menacing. Regardless of the fact that he was visibly outnumbered, it felt like Jareth was the person that should be feared.

  Justin eyed his friends, and the three of them encircled Jareth in a threatening stance. Each one of the men was clutching their big hands in fists, ready to strike. "And I told you," Justin muttered angrily as he glared at Jareth, "to leave!"

  In an instant, Jareth's back was to me as he faced Justin's buddies. He let out a low growl, and I saw their faces turn white with fear. The two men looked like they were going to shit themselves as they bolted towards the exit.

  What the hell?

  Justin, who was utterly taken aback by his friends' cowardice, went to take a swing at Jareth, who dodged his attempt and suddenly stood behind Justin, gripping his arm forcefully behind his back. The veins popping in Justin's enormous neck told me that Jareth was holding this giant gorilla's arm firmly enough so that the fighter was unable to escape his stronghold.

  Holy shit, Jareth had to friggin be like Mr. Miyagi or something, I concluded.

  While still maintaining his tight hold of Justin's arm, Jareth leaned in very close to his ear and spoke inaudibly enough so that I wasn't able to make out what was being said. Jareth's calm expression was never faltering; whereas Justin looked terrified, the man literally pissed his pants. Cautiously, Justin nodded his head in agreement. He actually looked like he was about to burst into tears.

  I almost felt sorry for him. Well almost.

  Jareth released him, and Justin bolted out the door faster than you could say señor pissy pants. Completely dumbfounded, I sat there with my jaw dropped, trying to comprehend what just happened.

  **********************************************************

  3rd Person POV

  Jareth turned towards Sammie and brushed off his suit jacket. He then held his pale hand out for a speechless Sammie to take.

  A content smirk curled up on his lips as she took his hand and walked with him to the front of the restaurant. He stepped away to talk to the establishment's night manager, leaving her alone with her confused thoughts about the recent events that had transpired. The two men seemed to appear laughing as Jareth warmly placed his hand on the man's back and gave him a quick nod. Jareth then handed the stocky man his business card, and the two shook hands amicably.

  Jareth casually strode back, returning to Sammie's side, and held out his arm to her. She shyly laced her slender fingers gently around his arm, clutching his muscular forearm. He gave her one of his megawatt smiles, making any discomfort she felt prior simply vanish entirely, then spoke.

  "Well, now that it seems all the unpleasantries are out of the way, shall we head out to the cinema Samantha? I do believe we have a movie to catch."

  Sammie blushed and nodded as she allowed Jareth to lead her out of the building and onto their next destination.

  Chapter 13

  Sammie's POV

  It's been two weeks, three days, and nine hours since Jareth and I became official. My boyfriend and I, that's right, it’s official folks, Jareth is my man. We have been blissfully happy. I mean, yeah, I still don't know where he gets all his money from or what it is precisely that he does for a living, but somehow, he always seems to charm his sexy ass out of giving me a real answer. He's lucky he so damn gorgeous. Typically my curiosity still got the best of me, but this man is smooth, my friends. He essentially explained that he comes from old money and made several wise investments, thus allowing him to live a very comfortable lifestyle.

  Jareth also assured me that he was not a criminal, nor did he dabble in any sort of criminal activity, so my curiosity was suppressed at least ... for now.

  Shockingly, our relationship has been pretty much smooth sailing. I mean, Jareth is very laid back and composed all the time. Nothing ever seems to get to him, save the one time where I swore he could conceivably be a lot more dangerous than he looks. Since then, that side of him never again presented itself; I chalked it up to merely being a product of the situation we had been in at the time.

  Ahh, Justin ... what an idiot, am I right? Thank goodness that psycho hasn't darkened my doorstep since then.

  Today was my birthday, and Jareth had decided that we were spending the entire day and night together. As silly as it sounds, I am just as dizzy as a virgin on prom night. Despite my many, many, MANY signals to Jareth that I desired to take our relationship to the next level, he always managed to put off our lovemaking. Jareth's reasoning behind his inclination
for us to hold off was such that the entire experience would be perfect for me when we finally did do it. So romantic, Sigh ...