Out of Nowhere Read online

  For the rest of the day, Rooney and I pretended to trip whenever she walked past and it was all was fun and games…until after a few beers Rooney literally ‘tripped’ and broke his wrist. “HA! That’s karma for being douchebags,” Natalia gloated as we all climbed into her car to head to the hospital. Our graduation night was spent in the ER getting Rooney’s wrist reset and cast.

  * * *

  The following week was spent clearing my stuff out of our apartment. I am amazed at how much junk I’d accumulated over the past four years. Now that I have graduated, I am moving back home to Nels Cove to officially take over Archibald Holdings. I am so happy that Pa is finally retiring. Rooney and Natalia are staying on in Boulder, and I am pretty sure he is going to pop the question soon. I’m really happy for him; Natalia is perfect for him. She keeps Rooney in line when needed, which is quite often, but I’ve never seen my best friend so elated, or in love.

  After what feels like forever, I am all packed up. The last box is loaded into my Jeep, and the rest of my things are boxed up and will be shipped early next week. Slamming the passenger door shut, I turn to Rooney. “Dude, you better come home and visit me.” Giving Rooney the man hug/slap on the back as I do so.

  “Promise, dude. Plus, I need to bring Talia home to meet everyone and see the Cove.”

  “That’s true. I still can’t believe she hasn’t been there yet, and I’ll be sure to save the booth for you at The Tavern.”

  “There’s no holding that booth, that booth is ours forever. When Jimmy Jones remodeled, which we probably paid for in our junior summer at home, he kept it for us. I’m surprised he didn’t rename the joint after us, RC’s. That has a nice ring to it, if you ask me.”

  “Yeah, that’s true. Man, we had fun that summer. Actually we had fun every summer. How I managed to work with Pa, hungover so often is beyond me.”

  “We sure did. As much as I complained and bitched to Mom and Dad when they said we were moving to the asshole of nowhere, I’m glad we ended up in Nels Cove. Chase, you are the brother I never had, and I’m glad to have you in my life.”

  “Don’t go getting all girly on me, Roon, but I agree. I know I’ve said this a million times over the years, but you are the reason I accepted what happened to Cadence and became the responsible well-adjusted adult I am today. I will never forget that.” Rooney and I have an unshakeable bond, and I will forever be grateful to have him in my life.

  We man hug again, but this time we hold on a little longer. Natalia joins our hug before she playfully adds, “Well-adjusted and responsible? I think you’re high, dude.”

  “Love you too, trippy,” I teasingly reply, as I wrap my arms around her for a one-on-one hug now that Rooney has stepped back.

  Breaking the hug, she steps next to Rooney, and I playfully punch him in the arm and squeeze her hand. “Okay, enough hugging and what not, I’d better get on the road if I want to make it back before nightfall.”

  “Drive safely, Chase. Text me when you get there,” Rooney says.

  “Yes, Dad,” I deadpan and salute him in reply.

  “Drive safe, Chase. I’m going to miss your Sunday breakfasts,” Natalia says, kissing me on the cheek before Rooney pulls her back and worms his arms around her—her back to his front. He not so quietly whispers, “I can’t wait to ravage you all over the apartment without worrying that he will walk in.”

  Natalia looks over her shoulder and whispers, “I can’t wait to do it on his bed again.”

  “What the? Seriously?” They both shrug their shoulders and laugh. I’m not sure if they are messing with me or if they are serious. “Please tell me you are just messing with me?” They both smirk at me, neither of them saying anything. “You both deserve each other. And on that note, I’m going to jet.”

  Climbing into my Jeep, I start her up and roll down my window. “Later, guys.” I wave and back out of the driveway and head home for my next adventure.

  CHAPTER FIVE

  Chase

  SETTLING BACK INTO LIFE IN Nels Cove was a lot harder than I thought it would be. No longer did I have access to things twenty-four seven or next day delivery like I did at CU. What I missed the most was the privacy. I missed just being Chase, where no one knew all my business. This being the center of attention was tough to get used to again. I forgot how in Nels Cove, everyone knows everyone’s business, and how the gossip gets misconstrued along the way. Like when I proposed an upgrade to the equipment at the factory. All I was suggesting was purchasing a newer, more streamlined machine that would increase productivity while maintaining quality. People went into a meltdown that I was laying off over half the workforce to go automated, with robots running the show. Ummm, no, no robots just yet…but how cool would a robot factory be? All I wanted was newer machines that wouldn’t constantly break down and would make us more productive. No one was losing their job, if anything I was creating more work for them because I was increasing our product line. Once I’d settled everyone’s concerns and worries, it was all systems go. And don’t get me started on the rumors that started when I branched out and acquired another company; the small town mindset is frustrating at times.

  The one thing that hasn’t changed is the women. The chicks in this town would still sell their grandmother to have a night with me. Since being back, I haven’t had a weekend alone, and best of all I haven’t attracted a stage five clinger. You know, the ones who hang on longer than necessary, the ones who think marriage is in the cards. Yeah, I don’t think so. Thankfully, they all know the rules, one night of pleasure only. And it’s a night that they will never forget, if I do say so myself.

  * * *

  It’s crazy to think that I have been back for three years now. It feels like just yesterday I was heading off to CU and now I’m the CEO of Archibald Holdings and for the most part, running the factory. I’ve been a busy boy, both work wise and between the sheets. Running the company has been smooth and productive. Bringing the factory into the twenty-first century was no easy feat, but I love the challenge that it provides and seeing those who have worked for us for years step up and thrive is pretty awesome.

  When I mentioned to Pa that I was going to increase our market share and expand, he was hesitant, but I took the risk. Considering today’s economic market, it was a big gamble, but it’s one I’m glad that I made because Archibald Holdings is thriving. I could not be prouder of what I have achieved over the last few years.

  An unexpected part of the job that I enjoy is helping the town stay afloat. For a while there, times were tough, not only for us but for the town as a whole. One of the best things about living in a small town is that in times of need, everyone bands together. Together we all managed to keep Nels Cove thriving. Sure, I help out at times with loan repayments, but without these people, we wouldn’t have the town that we do and it would have dwindled to nothing. Doing these little things helps me as much as it helps them, and if they are none the wiser, then so be it.

  The Archibald’s have lived in Nels Cove for three generations and it will always hold a special place in my heart. Even though we suffered a horrible loss here, it’s where I have the best memories and it’s where I feel closest to Cadence. Just like I did all those years ago, I still go to the cemetery and talk to Cadence, just not as much as I used to. It’s becoming my thing to do on a Saturday afternoon. People think it’s weird, just like they did back then, but I don’t really care what they think. All that matters is that I get my Cadence time. I’ve never ever cared what anyone thinks when it comes to my sister and me, and I never will care what others think. I’m me and if you don’t like it, tough shit.

  I’m walking back from visiting Cadence and I realize that tomorrow is my thirty-first birthday, and like each year, it’s a happy and melancholy occasion. Happy that I made it another year, it’s also a reminder that my twin is no longer here with me. Don’t get me wrong, I had a great childhood, before and after Cadence, but after losing her, a part of me was lost forever too.


  Growing up, I never wanted for anything. If I wanted it, I got it, but it wasn’t handed to me on a silver platter like most people thought. Ma and Pa made me work for everything I had. Now that I’m in my thirties, I’m thankful to them for raising me that way. I know that even if Cadence were still here, they would have done exactly the same thing.

  Sometimes I would fall for people’s lies and deceit and it would bite me in the ass, but you live and you learn. People would manipulate me into getting what they were after, and I was a total chump and handed it over. The same can be said for women. It was always fairly easy to score, but sometimes they were less than forthcoming with their truths. How was I to know that she was engaged or married? If you are presented with a tasty morsel, you indulge; it’s only natural.

  As I walk up my driveway after my morning run, I start to think that it’s time for a change. I’m tired of the wham-bam-thank-you-ma’am lifestyle, I think I’m ready to settle down. The only downfall to that is I’ve been through just about every woman in Nels Cove, not that there’s a lot to choose from. But trust me, none of them are worthy of the Archibald name. One day I will find my princess, but until that day, I’ll play the field and live life to the fullest.

  CHAPTER SIX

  Chase

  TODAY IS THE TWENTIETH ANNIVERSARY of Cadence’s death. I can’t believe that it’s been twenty years since we lost her. That day still torments me now, just as much as it did back then. The guilt I feel has eased over the years, but I still think—if only. If only I went with her. If only I wasn’t so stubborn then maybe, just maybe, she would still be alive. If I had been there, she wouldn’t have jumped without checking first. I always checked, but she was like a bull with red flag. She would have wanted to feel the rush of the wind in her hair before she splashed in the cool water below. To this day, I still maintain that her death was all my fault, and no matter how many times Ma, Pa, or the townspeople tell me it isn’t so, it still doesn’t change anything. Cadence is gone. That fateful day will forever haunt me and that’s my penance for letting her go without me.

  I’m sitting in the office, going over the quarterly reports, when I hear the meaty roar of an engine come barreling down the driveway. Hopping up, I walk over to the window, pull back the curtain, and see a gunmetal gray Dodge Ram coming toward the house. I know exactly who it is: Rooney. He and Natalia have made a surprise visit and I know why. He knows that today will be tough for me. He’s here to offer his support since he knows that Ma and Pa are away on a cruise, and I’ll be here all by myself.

  Talia, Rooney, and I have a quiet night at the homestead, just the three of us. I recount stories of Cadence and me when we were kids, and for the first when I remember they don’t crush me.

  The next afternoon, the three of us head to The Tavern for a night of drunken fun. Rooney has always said that I was living life for two, making up for the things that Cadence would have missed out on, and tonight that is definitely happening. Maybe he’s right, but whatever the reason, I love my life. I’m a cutthroat businessman, and an animal between the sheets.

  It wasn’t the night that I went out with Talia and Rooney, but the following night that I found a willing lass who was passing through town. A few hours after meeting her, we went back to my place and I gave her a night to remember. I collapse next to what’s-her-face, panting and sweating. I’ve just rocked her world and I lie there, staring at the ceiling. I sigh and know that this is not what Ma wants for me and, for the first time ever, I don’t want this anymore either. Ma wants nothing more than for me to find that special someone and settle down. I know she turns a blind eye to my extracurricular activities, but the gossip upsets her and I make a vow to myself that I’ll change…right after I rock what’s-her-face’s world one more time.

  I’d just put what’s-her-face into her car and as I wait for my coffee, I start thinking of the future. With my coffee in hand, I head out to the front porch and contemplate the rest of my life. Lately, Pa, and especially Ma, have been dropping subtle, well not too subtle, hints for me to settle down. Ma is ready to become a grandma, and as an only child now that responsibility falls on me. I’ve never let Ma down before, and I’m not about to start now…but she’s going to have to wait just a little longer. I’m not ready to become pussy-whipped like Rooney, even though I am sightly jealous that he has found the yin to his yang with Natalia.

  As I take a sip of my coffee, I think to myself that maybe, just maybe, I’m ready to settle down after all. But I’m not one-hundred-percent sure.

  After a lazy day at home, I decide to meet Rooney and Natalia in town at The Tav for dinner and a few casual drinks. As I sit across from the lovebirds, I decide that I’m ready, no more sleeping around. No more wham-bam-thank-you-ma’am. From this moment, I will save myself for ‘the one,’ but that will start right after I have a night of fun with Jennifer Jones. She is looking mighty fine tonight, and this will be my last hurrah before I, Chase Archibald, start my quest to look for a wife. Who knew that ‘the one’ had already blown into town!

  CHAPTER SEVEN

  Chase

  THE FOLLOWING WEEK FLIES BY, and before I know it, Ma and Pa have returned from their trip. On the weekend, we catch up and they fill me in on their latest traveling adventure. Since retiring, they have caught the travel bug. It’s nice to see them so happy and relaxed. Late on Sunday night, I pack up my things and head back into town to my house. I always stay at their homestead when they are away. I don’t know why, but it’s something that I have done since I got back from CU.

  Keeping with tradition, on the first Monday of the month, I meet Ma at Tiff’s and we have breakfast together. As always, we sit in the back corner booth and she orders a full breakfast, and I order one of Tiff’s special three-egg omelettes with a side of bacon. No one can cook like Curtis and Tiff, hence why Tiff’s diner has been here since I was a teenager. Everyone thought they were crazy, when right after high school they bought this place, but they have managed to turn the diner into ‘the’ place to eat in town. Sure, they fight like cats and dogs, but they know their way around the kitchen and they love one another fiercely. After saying goodbye to Ma, I head into the office. Today is going to be brutal, I have back-to-back meetings and, to be honest, I’m not looking forward to any of them.

  This week will be known as “fix the town week.” Seems everyone needs help this week, and as usual they all come to me for help and advice. I’m only too happy to assist, since without these people there would be no town. And with no town I’d have no base for Archibald Holdings. Here in Nels Cove, we are all one big family, and families help each other in times of need. After what feels like the longest meeting ever, I’m done for the day. With a smile on my face, I get up, shake Marv’s hand and walk out of the bank. I was able to sort out the issue for Mrs. Wright. She was my tenth grade English teacher, and she was my all-time favorite teacher. She will be very happy when I tell her the good news that the bank will no longer be harassing her. Most of all, she doesn’t need to know that I was the one to settle her debt. She just needs to know that it’s all sorted and that Marv won’t be after her anymore.

  The door has just closed behind me when I see the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. She’s walking down Main Street and I immediately notice her. How could you not? She is absolutely stunning. She’s wearing a yellow sundress. Her red hair is half up and half down and it’s blowing in the wind. Never have I seen someone so breathtaking. She went into Tiff’s and I decide to head there myself; after all Tiff makes the best muffins in three counties. It’s time for my afternoon coffee break and a guy has to eat, that’s what I tell myself as I walk across the street. In truth, I want to see this beauty up close and in person.

  Walking in, my eyes immediately find her in the back corner booth…my back corner booth, I think to myself as I walk further inside. My eyes are steadfastly locked on her as I head toward the counter. I’m not looking and don’t see Jolene coming in my direction; her arms full of orders, we
collide with each other. The plates she carries go flying and shatter on the floor with a loud crash.

  “Chase, I’m so sorry,” she says as she drops to her knees to start cleaning up the mess. Tiff appears and begins to berate Jolene for being clumsy, again. Jolene isn’t cut out for waitressing, but Tiff is too kind to get rid of her. Before I have a chance to say anything, the hottie I’d come in to see is on her knees helping Jolene clean up. My mind immediately imagines her leaning forward, unzipping my slacks, and her pert, pouty lips wrapping around my cock. My deviant thoughts are thwarted when I hear her voice, laced with anger say, “It wasn’t her fault. This guy here wasn’t watching where he was going and bumped into her.” She pauses and looks up at me. “You can always help clean up the mess you made,” she sassily says, her eyes shooting daggers at me.

  “Excuse me?” I growl, no one speaks to me like that.

  “You heard me, grab the broom from the lady there and help us clean this up,” she responds as she picks up a broken plate and places it into the bin that magically appeared.

  “Do you know who I am?” I ask, shocked that someone would speak to me like that.

  “I don’t care if you are the president, you will help clean up the mess that you caused.”

  Everyone around us gasps. No one has ever spoken to me like that before, and with this one conversation, this little spitfire has piqued my interest. Turning around, I grab the broom from Tiff and begin to help sweep up the mess. Within a few minutes, the debris is all cleaned up. Grabbing the broom from me, she hands it back to Tiff before she makes her way back to ‘my’ booth. I watch her walk away, while everyone in the café has gone back to his or her business. Shaking my head, I continue to the counter and order my usual. While I wait, I stalk over to the woman who has garnered my attention. As I sit across from her, I stare at her. I don’t think I have ever been drawn to someone like I am to this woman. “Well, aren’t you a little spitfire?”