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    All Queers Must Die
    All Queers Must Die
    All Queers Must Die
    Ebook508 pages6 hours

    All Queers Must Die

    By Gerald Lopez

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    About this ebook

    In a world where no one is who they seem to be and everybody has secrets... how do you find the truth?
    Maynard Shores, Florida is an exclusive beachfront town where the rich and beautiful come to live out their fantasies. Fun in the sun, and hot nights filled with passion are to be expected in a locale that caters to every sexual taste and preference. But danger lurks behind the shores’s glittering facade. The price for indulging in one of the area’s newest pleasures could be high—very high. A dangerous new designer drug has been introduced to the scene and partaking of it could be deadly. Its effects have already been profoundly felt by one newcomer to the area.
    The luxurious Maynard Shores Beachfront Resort is the place to stay, and home base for handsome and fit Bart Farrow, a man determined to get to the truth of what is going on in Maynard Shores. Using an alias, he arrives at the resort to train for the position of manager in order to spy on both guests and workers. All of whom seem to have agendas of their own. He’ll find himself forced to use some of their own tricks against them, even if it means trading his body for secrets and romancing foes for vital information. Lives are on the line, and loyalties are tested as time begins to run out. The cryptic message “All Queers Must Die” was found on resort property and, as a gay man, Bart is determined to find its author. Along with the help of some old and new friends, he’ll shine a light on the shadow world existing alongside the bright, glistening lights of Maynard Shores... before more lives are put at risk.

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherGerald Lopez
    Release dateMar 7, 2015
    ISBN9781310907142
    All Queers Must Die
    Author

    Gerald Lopez

    Gerald was called to write at various times in his life. When he was young, the writing consisted of plays and short stories. Then he explored the fine arts and literature, earning a bachelor’s degree in the latter while minoring in art history. In his studies he was fascinated by and enjoyed analyzing characters, their personalities and motivations. To him it’s always been the characters who make a story special. Once again writing has taken hold of him. In the past it was just an amusement, but now—for Gerald—writing is a passion to live, eat, and breathe.

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      Book preview

      All Queers Must Die - Gerald Lopez

      Copyright © 2015, 2016 by Gerald Lopez

      All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

      This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your favorite ebook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

      This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product 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.

      Cover Art Copyright © 2015 by Gerald Lopez

      Acknowledgments

      My special thanks go to the following:

      To John for his helpful comments and suggestions.

      To Jim Kennedy for all his help, advice, and kind words.

      To my wonderful Beta readers: for their comments, and often extremely helpful suggestions.

      Table of Contents

      Chapter 1

      Chapter 2

      Chapter 3

      Chapter 4

      Chapter 5

      Chapter 6

      Chapter 7

      Chapter 8

      Chapter 9

      Chapter 10

      Chapter 11

      Chapter 12

      Chapter 13

      Chapter 14

      Chapter 15

      Chapter 16

      Chapter 17

      Chapter 18

      Chapter 19

      Chapter 20

      Chapter 21

      Chapter 22

      Chapter 23

      Chapter 24

      Chapter 25

      Chapter 26

      Chapter 27

      Chapter 28

      Chapter 29

      Chapter 30

      Chapter 31

      Chapter 32

      Chapter 33

      Chapter 34

      Chapter 35

      Chapter 36

      Chapter 37

      Chapter 38

      Chapter 39

      Chapter 40

      Chapter 41

      Chapter 42

      Chapter 43

      Chapter 44

      Chapter 45

      Chapter 46

      Chapter 47

      Chapter 48

      Chapter 49

      Chapter 50

      Chapter 51

      Chapter 52

      Chapter 53

      Chapter 54

      Chapter 55

      Chapter 56

      Chapter 57

      Chapter 58

      Chapter 59

      Chapter 60

      Chapter 61

      Chapter 62

      Chapter 63

      Chapter 64

      Chapter 65

      Chapter 66

      Chapter 67

      Contact the author

      About the author

      Other books by Gerald Lopez

      All Queers Must Die

      Chapter1

      Happy Birthday!

      CONGRATS, GUYS! Henry said, shaking Jeremy’s hand, then Bart’s.

      Happy birthday to two awesome guys, Jenna Chase said, as she shook her ample breasts, which were nearly exposed in the tank top she wore, toward Bart.

      Nice tits, girl, Bart said. And all natural too—just look at them jiggle—some straight guy’s really gonna appreciate them babies. But they’re wasted on me—as you well know."

      You can’t blame a girl for trying to sway you over to her side; especially, since you’ve been single for a while now, Jenna said.

      Nice of you to remind Bart about that on his birthday, Jeremy said, holding a plate of birthday cake toward Jenna, as if he were getting ready to smash it in her face.

      Don’t you even think about it, Jeremy Kent, Jenna said. You don’t want to head out to your new job with a black eye, do you?

      She’ll do it, too, Frank said. Jenna is in a crazy mood tonight.

      It’s cool, people, Bart said. Pierce was a bastard anyway… a good-looking one, but a bastard nonetheless.

      I’ve got your back, dude, Walt said. I’ll remember that name, and Heaven help him if he goes even two miles over the speed limit when I’m on patrol.

      Thanks, Walt, Bart said. But don’t worry about it. The guy’s not worth the bother.

      He wasn’t really all that good-looking either, Tara said, from where she stood next to Jenna.

      Not compared to you, anyway, Bart, Jeremy said.

      Thanks, buddy, Bart said, patting Jeremy on the back. I always did say the best people were born on September the seventh. And not just because you and I were both born on this day twenty-five years ago.

      Two Virgos, but they sure as hell aren’t two virgins! Phil said.

      Ha, ha, Phil, very funny, Jeremy said.

      By one o’clock the next morning, the two Virgo roommates were saying good-bye to Jenna, Frank, Walt, Phil, and Tara, who’d helped them clean their two-bedroom apartment.

      Alone at last, Jeremy said.

      My sentiment exactly, Bart said. He then walked up to his platonic roommate and kissed him fast and hard on the lips, letting his tongue glide across them before being pushed away.

      Whoa there, stallion, Jeremy said. You’ve had more to drink tonight than I thought. It’s me, Jeremy, your two hundred and ten pound, overweight best friend.

      I know who you are, Bart said. You’re the blockhead I’ve been in love with since we first met in middle school. And I didn’t have anything to drink tonight. God knows, I wish I was wasted right now, but you know liquor makes me sick to my stomach, and I don’t do drugs.

      Both men looked down at the floor for a moment, then Jeremy put his hand on Bart’s shoulder and spoke. Why are you doing this, dude? Don’t mess with my head right before I leave to start my new job.

      Bart put his hand on Jeremy’s shoulder, and looked him in the eyes as he spoke. You don’t get it… do you? That’s the damn problem… you’ve never really been able to see me.

      Oh, I see you, Bart—I’ve always seen you. You’re the guy with the perfect body—slim, a six-pack, a dazzling smile, great hair, and sparkling blue eyes. I see you… then I look in the mirror at myself. We’re alike in so many ways; both of us blond, only my hair is curly, and both of us with blue eyes. Hell, we’re both even six feet tall—only I’m a fat pig… and I know it. We have the same birthday, we’re both gay, and we’re so similar… yet, so different. So, I’m gonna ask you again—why are you playing with me, Bart? I don’t deserve this… not tonight… not when I’m leaving for my new job tomorrow afternoon.

      Do you know what my birthday wish was tonight, Jeremy?

      No, but I’m sure you’re gonna tell me.

      It was that I’d finally have the nerve to tell you… and show you how I really feel before you leave.

      You are so full of—

      Bart kissed Jeremy on the lips again, then spoke. Please don’t push me away.

      I’m not sure I can handle this, dude, Jeremy said, looking down.

      Trust me, man. I’m your best friend… you know that.

      Yeah, I know that.

      This time, when Bart kissed him, Jeremy didn’t push him away. Bart took Jeremy by the hand and led him into his bedroom.

      Your bedroom is already clean, and Clive moves in tomorrow; so, I figured mine would do, Bart said.

      That’s cool.

      Moonlight streamed in through the sheer curtains in Bart’s windows.

      It’s a full moon tonight, that must explain things, Jeremy said, sitting on the corner of Bart’s bed.

      That’s BS, and you know it.

      God, Bart—you’re the best looking guy I’ve ever met… why me?

      Shut up, you idiot. He kissed Jeremy, then gently pushed him back on the bed and climbed on top of him. Every time he sensed Jeremy wanting to pull back, he drew him in closer: holding him tighter, and kissing him harder. While letting his tongue explore Jeremy’s mouth, he began unbuttoning his shirt.

      Stop, I don’t want you to see my blubber.

      Bart laughed loudly. "Oh, my God! How long have we known each other? Now, you stop playing games."

      I’m not playing games… I’m embarrassed.

      Bart looked down at Jeremy, and in one quick move, ripped his shirt open then began unbuckling his belt. I’ll buy you a new damn shirt and mail it to you.

      Well, two can play that game, mister.

      Jeremy reached up and began tugging on Bart’s T-shirt.

      Let me help you out, bud.

      Bart rolled off the bed, stood on the floor, pulled off his T-shirt; then his deck shoes, jeans, and underwear. When he was naked, he held a hand out to Jeremy. Reluctantly, Jeremy took his hand and got out of the bed. Bart didn’t go straight for Jeremy’s shirt; instead, he finished unbuckling his belt and pulled down his jeans, then his underwear.

      Help me here, Jeremy… take your damn shoes off!

      The two roommates looked at each other and laughed. Jeremy put his hand on Bart’s back to balance himself, as he took off his shoes, pants, and underwear.

      The shirt too, Bart said. Let me help you finish taking it off, stud.

      Jeremy laughed again, as his naked roommate walked behind him and removed his shirt. He couldn’t help moaning in pleasure when he felt Bart’s warm arms around his stomach. A tear rolled down one of his eyes when he felt Bart’s rock hard erection against his ass, and realized what it meant—his best friend was actually attracted enough to him that he was hard. Jeremy wiped the tear away, and Bart took his hand and kissed it.

      Are you okay? Bart said, before reaching back around Jeremy and taking his cock in hand. Mmm… nice and thick, just like I remember seeing whenever I’d peek at you in the showers at school and the gym.

      Jeremy chuckled, and Bart continued, But you’re not hard. Don’t you find me attractive, Jer; because clearly, I find you attractive? He walked around Jeremy, stood in front of him, put his hands on his sides, and pushed out his cock, so it could be clearly seen in the moonlight.

      It’s beautiful, B, you’re beautiful.

      Thanks, Jer. Hey, I think I see some stirring down there. He knelt in front of Jeremy, and licked the pre cum that had formed on the tip of his cock. God, you taste good… I always knew you would. Opening his mouth wide, he took the full length of Jeremy’s cock in his mouth, and tried not to laugh when he heard him groan.

      Let’s get back in bed, Bart, I want to taste yours.

      Whatever you say, buddy.

      They got back in bed, and began kissing again, softly at first, then more and more passionately. Bart made his way downward, then adjusted his body, so he and Jeremy could sixty-nine. Their hands also explored one another’s bodies, as did their tongues.

      You’ve got some big balls there, Jer.

      Yeah, and they’re fixing to explode.

      Hold off a sec—I think I’m ready to join you.

      Their bodies shook violently, as they came in unison into each other’s mouths. Bart turned his body so he was face to face with Jeremy and kissed him, letting him taste the cum still in his mouth, while tasting his own in Jeremy’s mouth. They were still breathing heavily as Bart began kissing Jeremy’s ear, chest, then large pinkish nipples.

      Shoot, my tits are almost as big as a girls, Jeremy said, and look how big my nips are.

      I’m looking, Bart said, squeezing Jeremy’s chest and biting hard on one nipple, then the other. I love your big nips… I hope they stay big, even if you lose all the weight you wanna lose.

      You’re crazy! Jeremy said, then laughed.

      Roll over and get on top of me, Jer.

      I’ll squash you.

      Just do it, and quit your whining.

      Oh yeah… just for that…. Without finishing his thought, Jeremy rolled over, so he was above Bart, but leaning on his elbows.

      Hold me tight, Jer, with your full weight on me… I won’t break—I promise.

      OK, but if I’m too heavy tell me.

      I’ll tell you; but you won’t be.

      Jeremy slowly lowered himself down on Bart, who responded by wrapping his arms and legs around him tightly. Bart lifted his head, so he could whisper in Jeremy’s ear. Thank you… I love you—now screw the hell out of me.

      THEY’D BOTH taken turns ‘screwing’ each other, before they finally lay back exhausted. Bart rested his head on Jeremy’s chest, while his fingers traced along Jeremy’s still erect nipples. He then moved away from the nipples and twisted a long curl of Jeremy’s hair around his finger.

      I’ve always loved your curly hair.

      I think… no—I know now, that I’ve always loved you, Bart. But why does it take me moving to a beach town in Florida for us to tell each other how we feel?

      I guess the fear of losing one another was stronger than the fear of being rejected. I know that’s what it is on my part. He wrapped his arms around Jeremy and gave him a hard squeeze.

      "It’s hard to believe you were afraid of being rejected," Jeremy said.

      I did have to talk you into what we just did… remember?

      Yeah, I remember. I guess I was scared you were playing with my head. No… that’s a lie; I know you too well to believe that… even for a second. You would never hurt anyone—at least not anyone you thought of as a friend. I still remember how you beat that guy up in high school for calling me a fat faggot. You’ve always been there for me like that.

      And I always will be, Jer.

      To be honest, I was scared that my body would be a turnoff for you.

      It’s not; as you could see, Bart said. You make too big a deal about it… most of your weight is in your stomach anyway—the rest of you is as fine as fine can be.

      So, now what happens? I’m off to train for a managerial position in a posh Florida beach resort and—

      And I have already put in notice at my managerial position here, so I can join you in two months’ time… provided you haven’t hooked up with a hot cabana boy by then.

      I’ll dump him before you get there. They both laughed and Jeremy continued, Won’t you miss the lovely Shay Arms Motel, which we so lovingly refer to as Adultery Arms… and what about this condo?

      Clive has a friend, who’ll be taking my room. This condo will be all theirs, so you better do good in training.

      I will; besides, I’ve already been guaranteed the position, and how hard can the training be? It can’t be much different then what we studied in school, and we’ve both been managers at hotels here in town.

      True, but that’s a luxury resort you’re headed to; a step above our local hotels and motels, Bart said.

      Have you already got a job lined up in Florida, B?

      Nope. I’ve been putting aside some funds, so I can finally work on that novel I’m always talking about writing. And I haven’t touched the inheritance my grandparents left me. Besides, I can bum off you, if need be.

      It’s not as if you haven’t done that before—just kidding. I love you, Bart, and I’ll be counting the days until you get there.

      Oops, almost forgot, Bart said. Mom sends her birthday greetings. She couldn’t be here, because she was the only one available to fill in for another doctor who got sick. They didn’t want the guy coming into work with the runs.

      Good call on their part, Jeremy said. God, I’m gonna miss you.

      Ditto, Bart said.

      A MONTH and a half later, Bart’s cell phone rang as he was packing up some of his books.

      Hello there, Momma, and what’s happening at the hospital this fine day?

      I need you to come see me at the hospital right now, don’t even bother to change, Bart’s mom said. I’ve got some bad news, and it can’t wait another second.

      Chapter 2

      Welcome Back

      HEY, DUMMY, Walt said to Bart, as he walked up to the hot dog stand which sat in the parking lot of a now vacant paint store.

      How’s it going, Bart? a woman in her mid-thirties dressed in a bikini top and denim shorts said. She handed Walt his hot dog and a cold can of Coke, then turned her full attention to Bart. The usual for ya.

      Yeah, Bart said.

      The woman stood away from her hot dog stand and took off her baseball cap. She pushed her long wavy brown hair back, and replaced the cap on her head. For reasons of hygiene, she washed her hands with some soap and water she had next to the cart. After drying her hands on a clean towel, she began to fix Bart’s hot dog.

      This one’s on the house, since I hear you’ll be leaving us today, the woman said.

      Thanks, Kate, Bart said, but you need to earn a living like the rest of us. Just say a prayer for me every now and then—that’ll be plenty. He handed her a five dollar bill and held his hand up so she wouldn’t give him any change.

      I’ll be praying for you, don’t have any worries about that, Kate said. I hear Florida’s even hotter than it is here in Georgia right now. And it’ll probably be worse where you’re going, seeing as how Maynard Shores is almost all beaches.

      It’s unusually hot even for late March, that’s for damn sure, Walt said, straightening out his police uniform. Bart, I’ll meet you at the bench under the trees.

      Once his order was ready, Bart headed toward Officer Walter—Walt—Kent, who was sitting under a grouping of large trees. Unlike his younger brother, Jeremy, Walt had a crew cut, was tall at six foot four, and muscular from constantly working out at the gym. Bart sat next to twenty-eight-year-old Walt, who wasted no time in getting down to business.

      I don’t like what you’re fixing to do one damn bit. I’ve known you since you were a kid, and I don’t want to see you get hurt.

      I’ll be fine, I’ve taken precautions, and Jenna and Frank have already been there a month. It’s too late for me to back out now, Walt.

      I’ve got no connections to help you there, beyond what we were able to do for you here.

      That was more than enough to get me in the door of that resort. The rest is up to me at this point.

      Our entire police force is prepared to back you up here, if need be; but down in Florida, our hands are tied. Maynard Shores may look welcoming and pretty on the outside, but it’s all just a thin veneer. My brother must’ve found that out firsthand… and suffered for it.

      Yeah, but not only do I know what’s there—I’m going in looking for it—that, my friend is the difference.

      I’ve got an envelope in my car containing everything you’ll need, Bart. I’ll give it to you when we leave.

      Is this where you tell me not to go looking for revenge on the rich folks, and to mind my manners like a good little boy?

      This is where I tell you to show those bastards what happens when they mess with a Georgia boy. My dad and my granddad both worked for the police force in this town till they retired. Folks remember them, and we officers look out for our own. They always considered Jeremy one of their own. Even though he never joined the force, he was always around helping when anyone needed help—well, you know all that, Bart. You do what you have to do in Florida. If you get in over your heads, you and the others get your asses back here quick. The chief himself says a blind eye will be turned to anything you might feel the need to do in Florida.

      Other than that, we’re on our own there, huh? Bart said.

      You’ll have one friend in Maynard Shores; Judge Haymond has a vacation home there—his contact information is in the envelope. The chief told him the plans, and if you, Jenna, or Frankie get into serious trouble—the judge will be available to help, as a last resort.

      We’ve all stayed in touch with Judge Haymond—he’s a good guy, and his wife’s a real sweetheart. At least, we know we can trust them.

      And they’re the only people you should trust while you’re there—never ever forget that.

      They finished eating, said goodbye to Kate, then walked to Walt’s police cruiser, so Bart could get the envelope. Walt opened his car door, picked up the large manila envelope, handed it to Bart, then spoke. Open it and check everything, Bart. He waited until Bart did so, then continued. The ID is good, and the other stuff will fool anyone, since essentially they are real. Doc Riley was a big help, so was that computer guy that’s running things for Frank while he’s in Maynard Shores.

      Bart looked up at Walt. Any more advice before I head out?

      Just two things. First, a hug from a Kent that’s here and loves you like a brother. He hugged Bart warmly then patted him on the back. Secondly… and most importantly; show those bastards in Florida no mercy.

      I’ll give them more than just a taste of Hell before I’m through.

      BART GOT in his car and drove straight through to Maynard Shores. It was dark by the time he arrived, and he didn’t have time to explore or see the sights before pulling up to the Maynard Shores Beachfront Resort’s gatehouse. He stopped the car and rolled down the window when the security guard walked his way.

      Good evening, the security guard said. Do you have a reservation?

      Bart took out his wallet and presented his driver’s license to the guard.

      Oh, it’s you—I was told to expect some changes, the guard said nervously, while looking at Bart. You look good—lost a lot of weight. It was a hell of a way to lose it, though—if you don’t mind me saying so. In any case, welcome back, Mr. Kent. The guard returned the license, Bart put it back in his wallet, then responded.

      Just call me, Jeremy, and it’s good to be back.

      Chapter 3

      All the Changes in the World

      THE GUARD raised the barrier arm and Bart drove into the Maynard Shores Beachfront Resort and followed a beautifully landscaped curving road with palm trees, shrubs, and flowers on both sides. He opened the car windows and took a deep breath of fresh air… he couldn’t see it yet, but his nose could smell the hint of salt in the air that let him now he was definitely near the beach. Passing a well-lit tennis court made him think of the last time he and Jeremy had played tennis together. Although he was overweight, Jeremy was still fit enough to enjoy sports and other recreational activities. The thing that always sabotaged his weight loss plans was his love of sweets. Some people were addicted to liquor, drugs, and even sex—poor Jeremy was addicted to doughnuts and pastries. Bart tried to snap himself out of, and away from his thoughts. It wouldn’t do for him to think about his past life with Jeremy, when he was now supposed to be Jeremy.

      Finally, the resort came into view—structurally, it was more spread out and wide than it was tall. In fact, at only two stories tall, it was small by resort standards. But he’d already been told that it was built to be more of an intimate and luxurious resort rather than a large and imposing one.

      He drove under the covered portico and a slim valet with curly brown hair, who looked to be in his late twenties or early thirties quickly walked to his door. Bart, now posing as Jeremy, lowered his window.

      Welcome back to The Maynard Beach Resort, Jeremy. We got a call from the gatehouse a couple minutes ago, letting us know you’d driven onto the property. My name’s George, but you probably don’t remember that, since I heard you have amnesia.

      That’s correct, but it’s still nice to see you again, George, Bart said. Where should I park?

      Oh, we’ve already been told to deal with your car and luggage; so, you can go straight inside.

      Bart popped the trunk, then opened his door and exited the vehicle.

      Wow, I guess you must’ve had to buy a whole new wardrobe, because of all the weight you lost.

      Something like that, Bart said, trying to separate his car keys from the rest of his key ring.

      George patted Bart on the back and smiled warmly. It’s OK, Jeremy. Jenna gave us your extra set of car keys. You won’t remember this, but we have copies of all the employees’ car keys in the event of an emergency. Such as, if the cars have to be moved in case of fire or someone locks their keys in their car. It came in handy when you locked your keys in your car that time. He was silent for a minute, then looked Bart directly in the eyes. I’ve missed you… and I’ve kept you in my prayers while you’ve been getting better. You may have forgotten me, but I’ll never forget all the help you gave me when I needed someone.

      Jeremy! a female voice said, from the direction of the resort entrance. Bart looked up and saw Jenna Chase walking his way, smiling, and waving. She wore a white polo shirt, and shorts with sneakers. Her shoulder-length, wavy auburn hair bounced as she walked.

      Hello, George, Jenna said. I’ve come to take Jeremy off your hands.

      The best of luck to you this time, Jeremy, George said. And we’ll make sure your luggage gets safely to your quarters.

      Thank you, George, Bart said, then turned his full attention to Jenna. Jenna Chase, long time, no see.

      It sure is, Jenna said. Get over here and give me a hug, you hunk, you.

      As they hugged, a female standing just to the right of them spoke. Hunk? My… my, that should certainly sound like a foreign phrase to your ears, Jeremy Kent.

      Bart and Jenna stopped hugging, and looked toward the young woman who appeared to be in her early twenties.

      Bitch, Jenna said.

      Oh, please, the woman said. "As if I don’t get called that name at least a dozen times a day. Hello, Jeremy. My name is Rachel Kristoff—not bitch. Although, actually both names would apply—my name is Rachel, and I can be every bit a bitch when I want to be, which is most of the time around this place."

      I’m guessing we weren’t friends? Bart said, taking a moment to look at Rachel closely. She had long, straight, light blonde hair that fell a couple inches below her shoulders. When she smiled, her bright blue eyes caught the light and shone brightly. With her figure and good looks, she could easily be a model. The short, sleeveless, red dress she wore highlighted all her best features, as well as her perfect tan.

      Jeremy, Rachel said. It’s not that we were enemies, exactly… you usually brightened my day, and were always good for at least a couple of laughs. It just won’t be the same calling you fat, or pig, when you’re in such good shape now.

      Wow, you really are a bitch, Bart said.

      We’d better head inside, Rachel said.

      The three walked toward the entrance which was almost entirely glass. I hope you’re not my boss or anything, Rachel, Bart said.

      No… I’m worse—I’m the owner’s stepdaughter. I argued against you coming back, you know, Jeremy.

      Why was that? Bart said, as they entered through a door being held open by a uniformed doorman.

      I’ll be honest with you, Rachel said. I’ve got no reason not to be honest, since I don’t really give a damn what most people think. I just plain ole’ don’t like fat people. If the rest of us can do what it takes to be thin, then fat people have no real excuse to be the way they are. Now that you’re in such great shape, I don’t mind you being here. Maybe sometime—when I need a handsome gay escort, I’ll even invite you out for drinks. I know how lonely you must’ve felt being ignored by everyone the first time you were here.

      Did they ignore me on your orders? Bart said.

      Like I’d even bother giving out those sort of orders, Rachel said. I didn’t have to order people to do what came naturally to them. They didn’t want to hang out with a fat boy any more than I did. I was just more honest about it. Well, I’d better go powder my nose… I’ll see you two later. Oh, and I do love what you did with the hair, Jeremy. The closely shaved sides and long front work for you—it’s definitely an improvement over those messy curls. Mind you, if the hair was any higher in the front, you’d have a pompadour. You’ve gone a little blonder too—I definitely approve.

      Rachel, could you be any more insulting to a man who’s just come out of the hospital, and is still suffering from amnesia? Jenna said.

      I heard him say your name when he saw you, Jenna, Rachel said, so, I figured he must be getting, at least, a little better.

      He recognized me from having visited him in the hospital, Jenna said. I don’t recall you ever even asking about him, much less visiting him.

      I never go to hospitals to visit anyone, Rachel said. There are too many sick people in hospitals. She laughed, clearly amused by her own joke. OK, so it was a bad joke. Listen, Jeremy will soon remember how much of a bitch I am, so why act nice now?

      If you know you’re a bitch, then—, Bart said, before being interrupted.

      Don’t start trying to psychoanalyze me again, Rachel said. "Like I’ve told you before, Jeremy, I like being who I am. I wasn’t abused as a child… I even had a pony. There’s no deep inner need inside of me for anything; I’ve always gotten everything I wanted… and I like it that way. I’m just a bitch, because I want to be—although, I’ll probably be much less of a bitch toward you now. All the changes you’ve made to yourself: the plastic surgery after the car accident, and the weight loss that resulted because of it have changed things. See, all the changes in the world can make a difference—it’s moved you up in life. Ta-ta, I’d better get moving."

      She walked away, turned left, then turned around and waved to Bart and Jenna just before she was out of their range of sight.

      Rachel’s a real piece of work, Jenna said to Bart, before realizing he was looking elsewhere.

      With Rachel gone, Bart had a chance to look around the immense entry area, and was impressed by what he saw. While the portico outside was paved with a beige tile, the floors inside were shiny white marble with specks of silver which sparkled under the light of several large crystal chandeliers. But all of that paled with the view directly in front of him. The back wall from the floor to the ceiling was large, clear, seamless glass which gave visitors an unobstructed view of the beach and water. Even in the dark, with just outdoor lights for illumination, it was an amazing sight to see—the moonlight shining over soft waves on the water.

      Don’t be lulled by the waves outside, Jenna said. You’ll need to keep your wits about you when you meet the rest of the gang—which will be mere minutes from now.

      I can hardly wait, Bart said.

      Chapter 4

      Surprises Galore

      BART LISTENED to the sound of the waves, as he and Jenna walked along an outdoor covered walkway. Jenna turned to Bart, pushed back the hair on top of his head, and smiled.

      That haircut does look good on you, Jenna said.

      It’s nice and tranquil out here—and just so damn misleading, Bart said.

      Nonsense, Jenna said, wrapping her arm around Bart’s. You need to stay in character and as an amnesiac this place is pure paradise in your eyes—remember that.

      I’m an amnesiac—remembering things isn’t my strong point. He smiled and winked at her. There was no need for him to try and remember anything—not when there was so much he’d never be able to forget.

      They walked around the corner of the hallway into a courtyard area. There was a lighted pool in the center surrounded by lounge chairs, to the left of which was a good size open air bar, with a glass roof. Inside the bar, facing Bart and Jenna, was a small crowd of people holding balloons.

      Surprise! the group said in unison before singing For He’s a Jolly Good Fella.

      Welcome back, big guy! a handsome man wearing a tank top, shorts, and sneakers said. You look freakin’ amazing, Jeremy. I know you don’t remember me, because of the amnesia and all, but I’m the fitness pro here, Simon Fenton. We used to workout together before your accident.

      Nice to meet you… again, Simon. But I thought Jenna was the fitness pro here.

      I tend to do more one-on-one training with the guests than Jenna does, Simon said, then smiled.

      He tends to do a little too much of the one-on-one stuff, a tall, thin woman said, as she stepped forward from the crowd. I’m Lisa Maynard-Kristoff, the owner of this fine establishment. Everyone just calls me Lisa.

      Bart felt a chill run up his spine from the hard stare Lisa was giving him. He smiled, and used the moment to check her out. She had unusually short, brown hair, which was brushed to the side, and vibrant hazel eyes with just a touch of gold to them. Her thin face was highlighted by high cheekbones. He’d seen many women that looked like her when he’d visited his mother at the hospital, where she worked as a doctor—cancer had touched this woman’s life at some point, and maybe even still had a hold on her.

      I’ve been cancer free for a year now, Lisa said, seeming to know what Bart was thinking. I was thin even before I got it, only I did have more hair. I’ve seen the look you gave me from other people as well; so, I decided to go ahead and mention the reason I look the way I do.

      I’m glad to hear you’ve been free of the cancer for a year, Bart said.

      You always did know how to bring down a good party, Lisa, Rachel said from the side of the bar. She’d just entered holding a glass in one hand. Nobody wants to hear your pathetic cancer story one more time.

      Shut it, and show some respect, a stocky, gray-haired man in the back of the room said, before he turned to address Bart. Don’t mind the little brat; she’s already started drinking—as you can see. I, for one, am glad to have you back, Jer. You were a lot more useful to me than most people I know. He held his drink in the air. Here’s to you, Jeremy Kent.

      Hear, hear! a few voices said in unison.

      By the way, the gray-haired man said. I’m the brat’s father, Marcus Kristoff.

      An attractive brunette woman walked in with her arm around an equally attractive, raven-haired man. The woman was wearing a nude color sheath which clung to her slender body. The man had on a tight T-shirt in a similar color to the sheath, and was wearing tight jeans with flip-flops.

      So sorry, we’re late, the woman said, before looking at Bart. My God, Jeremy, is that you?

      In the flesh, Bart said. And you are?

      I’m absolutely stunned, is what I am, the woman said.

      Her name is Julia Jansen, and I’m Reese Healey, one of the resort’s lifeguards, the attractive man said.

      Nice to meet you both, Bart said. And what do you do, Julia?

      I own and manage the on premise beauty salon and spa, Julia said. That’s a fab new hairstyle you’ve got, Jeremy. And after all the times I tried to get you to let me style your hair differently—I should be mad at you for letting someone else do it. Oh well. God, you do look good, though—doesn’t he, Rachel?

      We all have eyes, Julia, Rachel said. I think everyone can agree that the new and improved Jeremy is now highly screwable.

      Rachel! Marcus said. Try and remember who you are.

      A tall man with very short, curly blond hair walked up to Lisa with a set of keys in his hand. Lisa turned to Bart and made the introductions. Jeremy, this is James Emmet, acting manager of this resort until we can get you ready to run things. He’s on leave from my island resort, which he manages.

      It’s very nice to meet you, James said in a British accent. As you can hear, I’m British. This is actually the first time we’ve met, Jeremy.

      I love the accent… and it’s nice to meet you too, Bart said.

      James was kind enough to bring me your house keys, Lisa said. Would you like to take a moment and go there?

      Yes, if everyone doesn’t mind, Bart said.

      After excusing themselves, Bart, Lisa, James, Rachel, and Jenna walked to Jeremy’s quarters. They walked past the courtyard and to the left, until getting to the parking lot, which they crossed in order to get to a small complex that housed the employee quarters.

      It’s not typical to provide housing for your employees, is it? Bart said to Lisa and James.

      Not usually, James said. But Lisa believes in providing for our guests 24/7. If someone wants to work out with a trainer at one in the morning, we want to have one available, as a perk. Our goal is to provide anything our guests desire at any time.

      Jeremy, Lisa said, I had your quarters locked and made sure no one went inside.

      You were that sure I’d be back, huh? Bart said.

      I had hope that you would, Lisa said.

      Good Lord, Rachel said, "she even had them padlock the door; that’s why James had to bring a whole key ring with him. I don’t know why Lisa

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