Stolen Moments (And Then Came Love Book 2) (7 page)

Mina sat up a little straighter. “I’ve always played a healer, but I’ve dpsed a bit as well.”

“Mercs can’t tank. But they can dps or heal. He has super high damage per second.” Trevor gestured to a person shaped icon on the top of the screen.

Mina clicked it.

Trevor motioned to the stats. “There’s two classes of bounty hunters, mercenaries and power techs. The power techs are great tanks. Personally, I think they’re the best. I have one and she’ll keep the attention from the enemy longer than any of my other tank specs.”

Mina moved around the map. “Not a lot I can do on a guild ship.”

“Click the flower looking button in the bottom right hand corner of your screen on your mini map. You can try a player versus player round.”

Mina laughed. “Why so I can see just how bad I can get killed?”

“Trial by blood, the best way to go.”

Mina turned to him. “You might just be all right.”

“You might just be all right, yourself.”

Chapter Seven

April 23rd

Trevor picked up Arianna from work that evening. “Would you be terribly offended if we had dinner with someone tonight?”

“Of course not. Which one of your siblings are we having dinner with?”

“None, remember I told you about Pops?” Trevor looked over at her, he didn’t want her to be upset with the change of plans.

“I get to meet Pops?” Arianna smiled. “That’s wonderful.”

“Then you’re not upset?”

“No, I’m thrilled, I’m finally meeting someone in your family who didn’t come to my office for an appointment.”

Trevor laughed. “Something is telling me I need to introduce you to him.”

“What do you mean?”

“I don’t know. He’s always been there for me, when no one else was. He’s part of the reason I joined the military.”

“What you’re saying is that you want to introduce me to someone who’s very important to you?” Arianna beamed.

Trevor nodded. “You could say that.”

“Great! Let’s go meet him.”

*****

Arianna waited until Trevor came around and opened the door for her when they arrived at the pub.

They walked into the building and went straight to the bar. “Hey, Gramps, is Pops around?”

“What am I, chopped liver?” Gramps held out his hands.

Trevor chuckled and gave his grandfather a hug over the bar. “You know better.”

“He’s in the back, waiting for you.” Gramps turned to Arianna and offered his hand.

She beamed.

“Arianna looking beautiful as always.”

“Lay off the charm, old man.” Arianna winked.

Gramps turned to Trevor. “She’s catching on. You may want to keep this one.”

Trevor laughed.

Gramps cocked his head to the side. “Are we still keeping this quiet or do I get to tell people about your girlfriend yet?”

“Soon Gramps, soon.”

“What happens in the pub, stays in the pub.” Gramps nodded. “Go have a seat, I’ll send out Brennan.”

Trevor pointed to a booth in the back.

“Why didn’t you ask him to join us?” Arianna glanced back to the bar.

“He’s already met you. He knows it’s Pops’ turn.”

Arianna shook her head. “Whatever you say.”

Trevor indicated a picture on the wall. “Check out this picture.”

Arianna looked at the black and white, grainy photo of an American soldier in his dress uniform, sitting in what looked like a prison cell with a man in a wrinkled and worn SS uniform a shock of blond curly hair on his head. “The curly hair seems out of place, but then again the uniform seems out of place as well.”

“That man spent the entire war in that one uniform. It became more and more tattered as the years went by.” A voice with an Irish accent spoke from behind her.

Arianna turned quickly to see the tall, white haired man standing behind her. There was still dark hair in his beard, but all the hair on his head was white.

He held out his hand to her.

She gave it to him and he brought it to his lips. “Brennan O’Riley, but the kids call me Pops.”

“Arianna Halsey.” She smiled. “I’ve heard a lot about you.”

“And surprisingly enough, I’ve heard a bit about you as well.” Brennan hugged Trevor before pointing at the picture. “You remember the story I told you about the S.S. man and the red headed Goddess?”

Trevor nodded. “I told that story to Arianna on our first date.”

“Aye, what a boring first date that must have been.” Brennan grinned. “The man in the picture is the S.S. man I told you about. They arrested him as soon as he arrived in Germany after the war. He came down to face his punishment, even though he deserved a medal.”

“From what I understood he did so much good for not only his family, but many of the people of Norway, how could he still be punished?”

Brennan motioned for the two of them to sit down at the table. He joined them and looked across the table at Arianna. “When Trevor told you the story, how did you immediately react to being told I was asked to help an S.S. man?”

“I told him I hoped you didn’t help.” Arianna looked down at her hands. She’d judged him strictly on his uniform and not for the person he was.

“That’s right. He wore the S.S. uniform. It didn’t matter what he did and how many people he saved. When he entered Germany all they saw was the uniform and therefore he was the enemy.” Brennan leaned forward and took her hand. “Had I been approached by an S.S. man who asked me to save his life, I would have told him to go to hell? Instead, I was approached by his lovely wife and family. They convinced me what a good guy he was. I, too, would have seen the uniform and assumed he deserved to be punished.”

“It doesn’t seem fair.” Arianna glanced back at the picture. “No one should be judged harshly for the clothes they wear.”

“No, they shouldn’t.” Pops shook his head. “But it happens all the time. Kids are gang members if they wear certain colors. The soldiers coming back from Vietnam faced similar issues. We judge people because we don’t know them. And that man—” Brennan pointed at the picture. “—is the perfect example of don’t judge a book by its cover.”

“I bet his family is incredibly proud of him.”

“They are.” Brennan nodded. “Every single one of them. They moved to America to get away from the stigma. To some people they’ll only ever see the uniform. I’ve had people leave the bar when they see that picture.”

“That’s not right either.”

“It’s not, but it’s how the world works, lassie.” Brennan smiled. “So tell me about yourself, because you didn’t come here to hear an old man talk about his past.”

Arianna stared at Brennan. “What’s his name?”

Brennan chuckled. “Kurt, but the resistance forces called him, Krokete S.”

“Why that?”

“Because his brother-in-law had a terrible sense of humor.” Brennan grinned and then turned to Trevor. “Your girlfriend is an inquisitive one. Must be why you like her.”

Trevor laughed. “She’s a beautiful woman who doesn’t seem to mind my logical side.”

“Aye, what’s wrong with you, lass.” Brennan shook his head. “I’ve seen his logical side get him in more trouble than it’s worth.”

“He’s a pretty special guy.” Arianna took Trevor’s hand and squeezed.

Trevor brought her hand to his lips. “I’d say you’re a pretty special girl.”

*****

Trevor walked Arianna to her door that night.

“Would you like to come in?” She leaned against the door.

He pressed a kiss to her lips. “I’d love too. Where’s Mina and Candace?”

Arianna shook her head. “At a friend’s house.”

“I’m not sure I’m going to be ready to leave right away if I come inside.” Trevor nuzzled her neck.

Arianna turned around and opened the door to her house. “I was hoping you’d say that.”

They’d just managed to get through the door when Arianna’s phone rang. She pulled out her cell phone and sighed. “I’m hoping this is quick and doesn’t require me to go in.”

Trevor shrugged. There’s always next time.”

Arianna groaned as she answered her phone. “Dr. Halsey.”

Trevor shoved his hands in his pocket.

She grimaced.

He let out a heavy sigh, she’d have to go in tonight. Such was the life of dating a doctor he guessed.

When she clicked off the phone she glanced over at him. “I have to go in.”

He nodded. “I figured as much.”

“I don’t want too.”

“It’s your job, I understand completely.”

“But I wanted too ...”

“Believe me, I did too, but it doesn’t seem like it’s going to happen tonight.” Trevor pressed a kiss to her lips. “There’s always tomorrow.”

“I have to work tomorrow.” Arianna blew out a breath.

“We’ll figure something out, we always do.” He kissed her forehead.

“Good night.”

“Good night.”

Chapter Eight

April 25th

Trevor stood on the ladder fastening the last bracket for the curtain rod to the wall. He climbed down to examine his work.
Perfect.
He grabbed the tape measure.

“Darling, they’re perfect – you don’t need to measure again.” Jackie sat in an easy chair her arms folded over her chest.

“Just making sure, Mom.” Trevor put the tape measure back in the toolbox.

“You measured twice, dear.” Jackie stood, breezed across the room and picked up the curtains, neatly laid across the back of the couch.

“I’ll get that.” Trevor grabbed the curtain rod, took it apart, then strung the curtains on the rod.

“I do appreciate this.” Jackie patted her son on the shoulder. She sat down on the couch. “There is a lovely new woman that works with your sister and I’d love for you to meet her.”

Here it was. The moment he was waiting for. His mother wasn’t subtle when it came to setting her children up. He turned around and folded his arms over his chest. “Which sister?”

“Marissa, dear. She’s the new OB at the office.”

Trevor pursed his lips to stop from smiling. “An OB. That’s interesting. How am I going to happen to meet this woman? It’s not like I spend a lot of time in that office.”

“It just so happens Julian will be at the office today.”

Trevor couldn’t stop the chuckle. “Since when does Julian need an Obstetrician?”

Jackie rolled her eyes. “No, dear, his girlfriend does.”

“He finally managed to knock someone up?” Trevor shook his head. His brother had been married when he left for the army. After the second divorce, the last thing Trevor heard was Julian had a two-date rule. “I’m surprised that didn’t happen sooner.”

Jackie fixed him with a glare.

Trevor smiled, but kept his mouth shut. “You were saying Julian’s ... girlfriend needed an OB.”

“Well, technically, they’re not together. There’s been a bit of a problem in their relationship.”

“My guess would be Julian would be the problem in the relationship,” Trevor said under his breath.

His mother narrowed her eyes. “Anyway, I am taking Liza to the OB office and I was hoping you’d take Julian there.”

“Ah, so you’re attempting to set me up with the OB at the same time as you’re trying to get Julian and his girl back together?”

Jackie shook her finger at him. “Of course, dear, pay attention.”

“Does this woman have a name?”

“Doctor Arianna Halsey. She is a stunning woman. You two will hit it off wonderfully.” Jackie gathered her purse from where it sat next to her.

Trevor grinned. “I’m sure we will.”

“Good, Julian will be here in about a half an hour. I must be going. I need to get Liza there as well.” Jackie stood and patted Trevor on the cheek. “Oh and he’ll tell you he’s taking you out to lunch.”

“Of course he will.” Trevor shoved his hands in his pockets.
What to do for the next half an hour?

Everett walked into the house. He wore a black business suit, white dress shirt, and navy blue tie.

Trevor glanced at his mother. “Tell Julian to call me. I’m going to head home. My apartment is closer to his house anyway.”

“You can stay here, darling.” Jackie looked between Trevor and Everett.

“I’m always up for the company of my kids.” Everett smiled.

Trevor returned the smile. “I have a couple things I need to get done before I head out with Julian.” He kissed his mother’s cheek and headed toward the door.

Everett caught his arm before he could leave. “I’m proud of you.”

Trevor nodded and gave his Dad a quick hug. “I know.”

“If you ever need to talk, I’m here for you.”

Trevor broke eye contact “I know that too, Dad.” He headed outside and closed the door behind him. “There are some things I’m not ready to forgive myself for.”

*****

Trevor sat in Julian’s car, trying to decide if he should break the news to him that he knew where they were going.

“Thanks for agreeing to come to lunch with me.” Julian tapped his thumb against the steering wheel as they waited for the light to turn green.

Trevor sent Arianna a quick text telling her what was happening. “No big deal.”

“I ... umm have to make a quick stop before we go to lunch. Is that okay with you?”

Trevor snickered. “Listen man, Mom already told me where we’re going.”

“Then why did you agree to go with me?” Julian glanced over at him before pulling into the office parking lot.

“Because you’re my brother.” His phone chimed. It was Arianna. He had to bite his lip to keep from laughing as he read

Let’s play like we don’t know each other. It may be fun. Then we can break the news to your family we’re dating.

Sounds good to me. Trevor glanced at the door to the office. “Two men walking into an OB office together, this should be interesting.”

“I’m not exactly comfortable with it either.” Julian opened the door and stepped out of the car. “Here goes nothing.”

“What happened with the girlfriend to make her stop dating you?” Trevor pulled open the door and held it for his brother.

“I was an idiot and broke up with her and then didn’t react well the pregnancy announcement.”

“I guess that will do it.” Trevor shook his head.
How would someone act if they hadn’t been to this office before.
He fought to keep the smile off his face as they walked into the office.

Five women stared directly at the two of them. They varied in ages between twenty and sixty. Two of them he’d seen before. One raised her eyebrow, but didn’t say anything. The other snickered behind her hand.
Great.

Julian walked over and sat down.

Trevor took the seat next to him. He elbowed Julian as he shifted in his chair. “Well, this is uncomfortable.” He shook his head. “Why you felt the need to drag me here is beyond me.”

Julian leaned in close and whispered. “How do you think I feel, man? I feel like they’re all staring at me and know the situation I’m in.” He glanced around the room.

Trevor did the same.

All five women whispered. Two to each other, the other three on phones or to themselves. Figuring out what they were talking about wasn’t difficult.

Might as well stick it to Julian while he had the chance.
“You arrived here because of your own actions. May I remind you—”

Julian held up his hand. “I think I know how sex works, Trevor.”

“Funny, cause you’re acting like an idiot. His brother’s logic appalled him. “Then why would there be any question as to why you’re here?” Trevor steepled his fingers and rested them against his chin. Julian caused his own problems.

“Never mind.” Julian looked away from him.

Trevor shook his head.
Maybe this wasn’t the smartest idea.

The door opened and his mother and a redhead, he could only assume, was Liza walked into the room. “Your lady has arrived.”

Julian shook his head. “You always had a knack of stating the obvious.” He stood.

Liza sat by the door, as far away from Julian as she could.

He sunk back into the chair, a dejected look on his face. “Do you think she’ll ever forgive me?”

Trevor examined his brother’s face. His brother was clearly in love with the girl. Maybe there was hope for him. “If she loves you, chances are she’ll forgive you. Your question should have been will she ever take you back?”

Julian pursed his lips and turned to look back toward Liza and Jackie.

Trevor shook his head. Why would you leave someone you loved? It didn’t make sense.

His mother walked over to join them. “Trevor, how lovely to see you, dear.”

Trevor raised his eyebrow.
Better to play along.
He leaned forward and rested his head in his hands. “I seem to have been dragged here unwittingly.”

He looked up when the door to the back opened.

Arianna stepped into the waiting room. She met his gaze across the room. Her blue eyes sparkled, dancing with a bit of humor. She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and then scanned the room. She smiled at his mother. “Hi, Jackie.”

“Liza, dear.” Jackie motioned Liza to join her.

Trevor couldn’t keep his eyes off Arianna. He wanted to get up and kiss her. Hold her in his arms, remind her they’d see each other that night, but he held his tongue.

Arianna’s attention swayed between him and Liza.

“Dr. Halsey, this is Liza Thomas, and Liza this is Arianna Halsey.” His mother made the introductions.

His mother must have something up her sleeve, because if she was paying attention she would have noticed the looks between the two of them.

Arianna sent him one last look before turning to Liza. “Why don’t you come back and we’ll get started?”

She was about to leave.

Trevor stood at the same time Julian did.

Julian glanced over at him.

Arianna turned, she gave him a quick wink and then looked at Jackie. “I hope we’re not trying to determine paternity today. We don’t do that in this office.”

Trevor bit the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing. He held his hands up in a gesture of surrender. “Oh n-no.”

Julian chuckled.

Trevor sneered at him.
How dare he?
He was clueless to everything else going on around him. He turned back to Arianna. “I’m here, because my asshole of a brother asked me to come to lunch with him and then decided we needed to make a stop at the OB office.”

The corner of Arianna’s mouth turned up. “Well, I guess there could be worse places you could go.” A flash of mischief lit up her eyes. “He could have decided to have you stop off for a vasectomy.”

Trevor couldn’t help the laugh. He met Arianna’s playful gaze. “That’s a sense of humor I could get used to.” He turned to Julian. “As nice as it would be to talk to her more, I’m going to the car.” He held up his phone and winked at Arianna.

She gave him a slight nod and mouthed, “later,” before turning toward the door.

“Thanks for nothing.” Julian snapped.

A momentary urge to punch his brother filled his mind, but one glance at Arianna and it passed. “You owe me lunch.” He called to Julian as he waved to Arianna and headed out the door.

He whistled as he headed to Julian’s car. That was worth the trip. He leaned against the car. The fresh air felt nice. He rubbed his knee, there was a twinge of pain, but not too bad. A couple more weeks and he’d be released for work. He missed being outdoors. He’d been cooped up in his apartment too long. Maybe he could convince Ari to go to the park with him later.

His mother walked out of the office. “Are you glad you went with him?”

“Why would I be glad, Mom?”

“Isn’t Doctor Halsey a delight?” Jackie grinned and patted her son on the shoulder.

Trevor folded his arms over his chest.
Might as well keep up the charade.
“She seems nice.”

Jackie rolled her eyes. “I know you’ve been seeing her, darling.” She motioned for him to follow her.

“And how do you know that?” Trevor shook his head and shadowed his mother.

“Come on, I’ll take you out to lunch.”

“Lunch, that’s code word for let’s set up Trevor.” He let out a sigh.
Avoiding his family was looking like more and more of a good idea.

“No, I meant lunch.” Jackie handed him her keys and got in the car.

Unless he wanted to call a cab or wait for Julian, she was his only ride back to his truck. And your mother. “Let’s go.”