One Heart ~ Two Souls

One Heart ~

Two Souls

E Kelly

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and events are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

© Copyright 2010 E Kelly.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the written prior permission of the author.

Chapter 1

Something woke her from the nightmare, saved her. Julia wasn’t sure what it was, but she was grateful. Then she rolled her head to look at the clock – 7:18.

Damn, she sighed. At least she had slept past sunrise for a change. Sleeping was something she struggled with now, fighting the pain or the nightmares. Sometimes both. Now that she was awake, pain demanded her attention.

Go to hell, she threatened. But it lacked conviction as it always did in the mornings. She heard it again now, an engine of some sort – maybe a lawn mower. But who mows the lawn at 7:18 in the morning? Knowing sleep would elude her now; she decided she might as well get up. Try and get up would be more accurate she realized as she attempted to sit up and failed. Julia had just moved in the day before and there had been no time to set up a proper bed. She had slept on the box spring and mattress. While it was comfortable, she found maneuvering herself without help was both difficult and painful. Taking a deep breath, she held it as she swung her legs partially over the side and sat up. She held still for a few moments, padangling as her mother would call it – her legs over the side, her feet not quite touching the floor. The pain in her broken ribs attempted to level her, but she beat it back through sheer determination. She saw the water and prescription bottles then, next to the bed. Carefully, she bent just far enough to reach them. Two tablets every four hours as needed for pain.

I don’t think so, she mumbled as she popped just one into her mouth and washed it down. The lawn mower sound was closer now. Reaching for the robe at the foot of her bed, she decided to check it out.

Grayson enjoyed the morning air, headphones on, music blaring. It had been days since he had been outside, since he had seen the sunshine. Sometimes it happened that way – when a book consumed him. He would write for days, forgetting the outside world, forgetting mundane things such as sleeping and personal hygiene. He was lucky if he remembered to eat. And when he surfaced, as he had this morning, he was eager to move, do something physical. He had remembered, as he wolfed down cold pizza and orange juice at dawn, that he had promised to mow the lawn across the street before the new owner arrived. He thought the new owner was due in today. Tomorrow? He shrugged good-naturedly when he realized he had missed that little detail. Either way, they would arrive to a freshly mown lawn as promised. It was then that he saw her, standing on the back patio.

Damn, he said to himself as he moved the mower closer and cut the engine. Good morning, he began. I hope I didn’t wake you. Well that was stupid he thought. She’s standing there in a nightgown and robe and you hope you didn’t wake her. Idiot.

It’s not a problem. But may I ask why you’re mowing my lawn at 7:18 in the morning? Why are you mowing my lawn at all actually?

Your lawn? So you’re the new owner? Nice job Gray he thought as he walked over to introduce himself. I thought you weren’t coming until Thursday.

Raising a questioning eyebrow, she answered. It’s Friday.

Friday? I’m sorry. I must have lost track of the time again. Occupational hazard. He stood before her now, his breath hissing out between his teeth, when he suddenly realized who she was. Julia Gable, he whispered. With a quick sweep of his eyes he took in the walking cast, the brace on her right arm, the bruises still visible. Apparently the stories in the paper had not been exaggerated. As horrific as Julia’s injuries were though, she was still a beautiful woman. So Grayson noticed the long dark braid over her shoulder, the deep, rich brown of her eyes, the fullness of her lips and the way her short nightgown outlined her curves. It’s a pleasure to meet you. A real pleasure.

I’m sorry, she said politely. I believe you have me at a disadvantage. I don’t know your name. She cocked her head slightly to the side as she studied him. He was big, taller than either of her brothers and with enough muscles to make a woman notice. His eyes were the same blue of the sky, his bald head covered with a bandana of some sort. He smiled at her and she couldn’t help but think he did seem familiar.

Grayson Taylor, he answered as he held out his hand.

The author? she asked.

Yes. He held her left hand in his, smiling warmly down at her. Against her better judgment, she smiled in response.

So why is a New York Time’s bestselling author mowing my lawn?

I promised your real estate agent. He’s a friend. He was going to get a service. I told him I didn’t mind. He was still holding her hand, soft and slim, in his.

Well, that was very generous of you, Mr. Taylor…

Grayson.

Grayson, she corrected. But you don’t have to do that. I’m sure you’re very busy. I can just have one of my brothers finish it. You needn’t worry.

Thanks just the same, he said. But I like to finish what I start.

Well, if you insist, Julia said.

I do.

Then carry on. And thank you.

You’re welcome. She started to turn away. Julia? He waited for her to look up at him again, brown eyes meeting blue. I just wanted to say that I’m a fan. Have been since you and I were in our teens. He smiled as he watched her. His smile faded as he continued. The world suffered a tremendous insult when we lost your talent. I wanted you to know that. And to let you know that your music will be missed.

With tears in her eyes, she thanked him. That was kind of you to say. Her smile wavered as she turned again to go. Excuse me.

Her tears sliced at him and he reached for her. With a gentle hand on her shoulder, he stopped her from leaving. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you. I have a bad habit of saying what’s on my mind.

She smiled softly at him. It’s okay. This is something I’m going to have to get used to, learn to accept. Hastily brushing away the one tear that had fallen, she added, Apparently, it’s going to be a little more difficult than I thought.

Miss Julia? they heard from inside the house. Miss Julia? Where are you?

Out here. On the patio, she called over her shoulder. Looking back at Grayson she explained. My housekeeper. She worries.

There you are, Miss Julia! What on earth are you…? Excuse me, she apologized. I thought you were alone, Miss.

It’s okay, Maria. This is our neighbor, Grayson Taylor. I was just thanking him for mowing our lawn.

It’s a pleasure to meet you, ma’am. Grayson noticed the look of approval in Julia’s eyes when he held out his hand to shake. Now if you’ll excuse me ladies, I have a lawn to finish. He bowed slightly and dismissed himself.

He seems like a nice young man, Maria observed. Has good manners.

Yes, he does.

Now, it’s time to get you back inside Miss. You’ve been standing on that leg long enough. With that said she took Julia’s arm and gently began to guide her.

Later as she sat on her porch sipping hot tea, she thought back to the morning and her neighbor. He seemed nice enough. Any guy who would cut a stranger’s lawn just because they were new to the neighborhood couldn’t be all bad, right? And it hadn’t taken him long to win Maria over either. She was a sucker for a good-looking man with manners. And Grayson certainly fit that bill, didn’t he? He was tall, broad, and unapologetically masculine. If his eyes and smile didn’t win you over, they came wrapped around one of the greatest literary minds Julia had ever been exposed to. One hell of a package deal she admitted. Too bad she wasn’t shopping.

Good morning, he called as he waved from the end of her walk. May I join you?

Um. Sure. Come on up. Okay, apparently he was going to be one of those friendly neighbors she thought as she watched him approach. Freshly showered and changed, he looked very… capable. Jeans, flip-flops and a t-shirt that was working hard to contain his broad chest and muscular arms.

Good morning. Again, he said when he reached her.

Good morning. Again. Please. Sit.

Thanks, he said as he did just that, turning so that he faced her. She looked lovely in the soft shade of the porch, wearing a lightweight summer dress that made her look feminine and delicate. Until you looked in her eyes. There was strength there, clear and deep. He smiled warmly. I thought I would bring you some coffee, he explained, gesturing to the second cup he held. But I see you managed to find some this morning.

Tea actually. I never developed a taste for coffee. She relieved him of the extra cup and placed it on the table between them. I thank you for the thought, though.

You’re welcome. They sipped companionably.

So, did you just finish another book?

I did. It was a bit of a marathon there at the end, but that happens sometimes. He sipped again while he thought. Are you a fan?

Guilty, she admitted sheepishly. You’re very talented. I love the way you hook the reader from the start. Then you keep them guessing with every page. No pat answers or simple solutions ever. Your stuff is an absolute blast to read.

Wow. I do believe that is the nicest compliment I have ever received about my work. He smiled gently at her. Thank you.

You’re welcome. So what’s this one about?

Shaking his head, he answered, Sorry. I don’t share until it’s printed.

Even after I gave you all those lovely compliments? she pleaded.

Laughing now, he added. Sorry, honey. Everyone waits until it’s published. No exceptions.

And here I thought we were going to be friends, Julia teased.

As much as I would love to be your…friend, he hesitated over the word, you’ll just have to wait. He was delighted with her. She was everything that he had hoped she would be. Intelligent. Charming. Funny. Sexy. He watched her as she sipped her tea. The slight breeze stirred the subtle fragrance she wore, tempting him. Too soon, he thought. Even though he felt like he had known her for years, it wasn’t true. He had only known a part of her. He would have to take the time to get to know the rest, if she would let him. Grayson thought back to the reports of the accident, his eyes going cold and hard as they drifted to the bruises on her face.

Self consciously, Julia lifted her hand to cover them. I’m sorry. Do these bother you? You were staring, she added when he seemed confused.

Was I? I’m sorry. I was lost in thought. He smiled then, hoping to soften the impact of his words. And yes. They do bother me. But not in the way you mean. He put down his empty cup and looked her in the eye. I hate to see that you suffered, that you were and are in pain. That’s what bothers me. Not the bruises or... he hesitated, not wanting to upset her.

It’s okay, she murmured as she sipped her tea. He couldn’t be serious, could he, she wondered. He was just being polite, right? Super fan and all that. Julia stole a glance and found him watching her. What? she asked.

Grayson was saved from answering when a truck pulled into the driveway. Expecting someone? he quickly asked.

Two someones, actually, Julia informed him. They both turned and watched as two men stepped out of the truck. One turned toward the house; the other toward the storage container sitting in the driveway.

Morning Jules, called the driver as he headed up the walk. He climbed the few steps, eyed Grayson, and bent to kiss her cheek. Sleep well?

Yes. Thank you, she assured him as she returned the kiss.

Standing, Grayson held out his hand in introduction. Grayson Taylor. I live across the cul-de-sac.

Sean Gable. Julia’s brother.

I should have known. You favor each other, Grayson observed.

Our mother thinks so, too. Are you Grayson Taylor the author? Sean wanted to know.

One and the same.

Cool, answered the second man as he joined them on the porch. Hey, baby, Gray heard him whisper as he bent to kiss Julia’s cheek. I see your POD survived the trip. And everything seems to be in one piece inside. Turning to Grayson he introduced himself. Ethan Gable. It’s a pleasure to meet you. Did I hear you say that you live in the house across the street?

Yes. I’ve been here about six months now. The house belongs to a friend that took a job out of the country. He didn’t really want to sell it, so I agreed to move in and take care of it until he returns. He looked at Julia as he added. To be honest, I’ve been hoping that this house would come up for sale when I heard the owner passed away. I’ve been admiring it from afar since I moved in.

Really? Sorry to spoil your plans, Julia apologized. The last owner was a fan. He left me the house in his will. Taking a deep breath, she continued. I thought it would be a good place to start over, begin again. You know?

Nodding, Grayson agreed. Yeah. I know.

Well then, if that’s the goal, we should get you moved in, stated Sean.

Can I help? offered Grayson. I’m pretty good at lifting, carrying, following orders.

Sure, accepted Sean. We’ll take all the help we can get. And you… he pointed at his little sister, affection showing clearly in his eyes, you direct and command. We are at your service.

But… Julia started.

No buts, Sean interrupted. That’s the deal. Take it or leave it.

I guess I’ll have to take it. I don’t like it, but I’ll take it. Julia stuck her tongue out at her brothers. Grayson laughed. Maria has coffee first, if you need it.

Maybe later, Ethan answered. Let’s get started. Kitchen first. Right Jules?

Yeah. I promised Maria. And if we want real food, she needs a kitchen.

That’s good enough for me. Let’s get started guys.

For the next few hours, Julia watched them from her spot on the porch. Every box and stick of furniture was presented to her for distribution. The men worked hard at trying to include her. She appreciated their effort. She wasn’t very good at sitting on the sidelines yet. Julia’s eyes couldn’t help but stray to Grayson as they worked. He appeared to be at ease with the task - the weight of the boxes and furniture not even registering. Against her better judgment, she had to admit that she was impressed, intrigued. He was in excellent shape. Really excellent shape.

Grayson enjoyed the chore. The physical exertion was just what he needed after days spent at his computer. Julia’s brothers were good company too. They worked tirelessly for their sister without argument or complaint. It was clear to Gray that they all loved each other very much. It was in the way they looked at each other, talked, and laughed together. Strong ties here he thought. Nothing like he was used to but lovely to watch, be a part of. He smiled as he passed her again. She smiled up in return.

Hours later, after the POD stood empty, Julia called a break. The men joined her on the porch, sipping cold drinks while Grayson told them a little about the neighborhood and the town. Maria joined them for a few minutes while she asked Grayson for directions to the local grocery store. After that, she was off, determined to buy everything she needed to stock the kitchen.

Whatever you want, Maria, Julia reminded her. Don’t hesitate.

Yes, Miss, she agreed. And you two, she pointed at Ethan and Sean. Don’t let her do too much. She is still supposed to be recuperating.

Will do, Ethan reassured her. No dancing, rollerblading, or cartwheels on the lawn. Got it.

Sass, Maria muttered as she left. That boy has too much sass for his own good.

What now? Sean asked Julia.

Well, I think we should put the kitchen together for her. We need to clean the cupboards, unbox everything. If we hurry, it can be done before she returns and then she’ll be able to organize everything to her liking.

Kitchen it is then, Ethan agreed as he headed inside.

Sean stood in front of Julia’s chair for a second before he asked, Ready?

Taking a deep breath, she answered. Ready.

As gently as he could, Sean reached under Julia’s arms, lifted, and stood her on her feet. He knew it hurt but she didn’t make a sound. She paled though as she fought the pain and Sean winced. Okay?

Yep, she lied cheerfully. Go on ahead. I can do this. I’m just a little slow.

Sean hesitated until Grayson added, I’ll walk with her. Trust me. I won’t let her fall.

With a quick nod to Grayson, Sean too headed inside.

Look for that box of cleaning supplies first, Julia called after him.

May I ask a question? Grayson inquired as soon as Sean was out of earshot.

Um. Sure, Julia replied.

You seem to be in a lot of pain. He studied her with concern etching his features.

That’s not a question, she answered. But, on a scale of one to ten?

That works, he agreed.

Medicated and still – I would say a four. Trying to move around – that would be an eight.

Shit he thought. Why didn’t her doctors give her something for the pain? Were they stupid? She shouldn’t have to be in misery. He said as much to her and was shocked by her response.

They gave me plenty of meds. I’ve just started cutting the dosage in half during the day. She stopped him before he interrupted. The full dosage makes me drowsy. I was sleeping most of my life away. I’m sick of that. It just adds to the feeling of being an invalid, being helpless.

But if you need the meds… Grayson started.

Don’t worry. If the pain gets too bad I take the full dose. I also take the full dose at night when I’m trying to sleep. Other than that, I just suck it up and deal. Most of the pain is coming from the broken ribs. Once they’ve had more time to heal, I’ll be okay.

He winced. Broken ribs? I did that once - playing high school football. It hurts like hell.

Yeah, Julia nodded her agreement.

How many?

Four.

Son of a bitch, he hissed.

Julia laughed softly.

What else?

She hesitated again, not sure how much to tell him. Four broken ribs, broken leg and foot, crushed right hand and arm, nerve damage and assorted bruises and lacerations. All in all, pretty messed up. Ethan called me Humpty Dumpty for awhile. Slowly, she began to move toward the door.

Do you want me to beat him up for you? Grayson offered.

She smiled sweetly at him. Grayson’s heart skipped a beat. Thanks. That’s really sweet of you to offer, but I think Sean beat you to it.

Grayson nodded his approval. His focus was on her, the way she slowly but surely made progress down the hall toward the kitchen. She kept her good hand closest to the wall to catch herself if she should stumble.

I think I should confess, Grayson began. It is taking all of my self control not to scoop you up and carry you myself.

She laughed softly as he hoped she would. I appreciate your restraint.

All bets are off if you start to fall, he promised.

Good to know. They entered the kitchen then. Her brothers had been working hard in their absence and were just finishing the cleaning of the cupboards.

There you are, Sean announced as they came in. I was about to report you missing. He came over to study her eyes; trying to judge how much pain she had just endured.

Sorry. My fault, Grayson claimed. I was trying to convince Julia to run away with me.

Well, could you at least try and convince her in here so that we can get the kitchen organized at the same time? Then she’s all yours, Sean assured him.

Hey! Julia protested as Grayson laughed loudly. Laughing with him, Ethan guided Julia to a kitchen chair.

She shouldn’t sit in that, Grayson argued. She needs to be able to lean back, relax her ribcage, prop up her foot.

They all stared at him in astonishment. Ethan was the first to speak. Alright, Dr. Taylor. What do you suggest?

Um. Overstepped here, he thought. Crap. She would be more comfortable in that small recliner we brought in. We could move it in here for now. Put it back when we’re done.

That’s actually not a bad idea, Sean admitted. After the chair had been retrieved from the den, Sean and Grayson set it up in the corner of the kitchen out of the main traffic pattern. With Sean supporting her on one side and Grayson on the other, Julia lowered herself into it. Slowly she leaned back to rest her aching ribs. Grayson extended the footrest and gently lifted her foot, settling it into place. Julia sighed in relief.

Better? he whispered.

Yeah, she smiled appreciatively. How did you know?

Those broken ribs I told you about. The only place I was comfortable was in this old, ratty recliner my dad had. I even slept in it for awhile.

Thanks, Julia smiled.

Here Jules, Ethan was saying. These might help, too. He held two pillows in his hand.

Great idea, Grayson immediately agreed. Taking one, he carefully lifted her foot, slid the pillow into place, and lowered it again. He couldn’t help noticing that the pillow smelled liked Julia. It held the same fragrance as her hair.

Okay, guys. Thanks for the TLC. Now we have to focus on the work at hand. Let’s see if we can make a kitchen.

For over an hour, they worked fast and efficiently, sorting and arranging the kitchen. By the time Maria returned with the groceries, they were almost finished.

Oh my goodness! she exclaimed as she entered. It looks wonderful. You shouldn’t have! I’m very glad you did, but you shouldn’t have! she finished as she placed a kiss on each of their cheeks in appreciation. Oh. Wow, she said again as tears began to fill her eyes. I am going to make you a fabulous dinner.

That sounds like a fair trade to me, announced Sean. We’ll just get the groceries then.

There are fresh hot pizzas on the front seat too, for lunch,