Book II ~ The Deceiver’s Secret ~ The Deceiver’s Fall ~ By J.A. JACKSON * * New Book Coming Soon! **

Chapter 8

A Dangerous Game 8

Izard made his way out of the alley and cautiously scanned the street in front of him with his eyes. The lights on the building across the street was dark. He knew everyone should have left for the day.

Quickly he crossed the street and slipped into the back entrance of an old building, Izard entered a dimly lit room where a large table sat in the center. Spread across it were blueprints, documents, and photos of both Eve and Hawke—everything he needed to execute his plan. He had been watching them for weeks, learning their patterns, their weaknesses. And now, it was time to strike.

At the far end of the room sat Voss, a lean man with sharp features and eyes that gleamed with mischief. Voss had been Izard’s right-hand man for years, and he thrived on chaos.

“They’re too happy, Voss. It makes me sick,” Izard said as he tossed a photo of Eve onto the table. “I want her to feel what I felt. The pain, the betrayal. And Hawke—he’s going to pay for what he took from me.”

Voss raised an eyebrow, a sly grin playing on his lips. “What’s the plan, boss? You’ve never been one to keep things simple.”

Izard smirked, leaning over the table and tracing his finger along one of the blueprints. “Oh, it’s far from simple. You see, Hawke’s business is vulnerable. He doesn’t know it yet, but I’ve set a trap. Tomorrow, we’ll leak some ‘information’ that will make his clients doubt him. I’ll plant just enough doubt to cause a few of them to jump ship.”

“And what about Eve?” Voss asked, his tone eager.

“I’ve saved something special for her,” Izard said coldly, his eyes darkening. “Eve thinks her past is behind her, but she has no idea what’s coming. I’ve found someone she’ll recognize, someone she won’t be able to ignore. And when she does, it’ll shatter everything she’s worked to rebuild.”

Voss let out a low whistle. “Brilliant, boss. But how do you know it’ll all fall into place?” Izard stood tall, his confidence unshakable. “Because I don’t leave anything to chance. By the time they realize what’s happening, it’ll be too late.”

Suddenly, the door to the room creaked open, and a woman stepped inside. Her face was partially hidden by a hood, but Izard recognized her immediately.

“Right on time,” Izard said with a satisfied smile. “Are you ready?”

The woman stepped forward; her voice low but resolute. “I owe you nothing, Moulard. But I’ll do this. After that, we’re done.”

Izard’s smile didn’t falter. “Of course. Just follow the plan, and everything will be as it should.”

Then the woman loudly cleared her throat. “There’s something else.”

“What is it?” Izard demanded.

The woman voice as like steel when she spoke. “For this plan to be effective, I must ask that you wait a few weeks, if I start your plan tomorrow it will be too soon, and it won’t look legitimate.”

“Ah! I see your point,” Izard nodded as his lips curled into a sinister smile. What do you have in mind?”

“I need time. Just a few weeks,” she paused. You see, not many understand the importance of shaping a story. And this story must be shaped.” The woman paused as if choosing her words carefully. “Even still, few how the true art of being shrewdly proficient enough to manipulate the media. And as I am sure you know. Social media is a shrewd bitch, and for this to be done right I need a few weeks to build up your victim, before I can destroy them.”

Izard laughed out loud at her words.

“So, tell me Moulard, are you a patient enough man for me to do this right?”

“I’m a patient man. I can wait a few weeks,” he smirked. “As long as you destroy my victim.”

“Good, then it is settled I’ll leave now,” the woman said as she turned and made her exit. As the woman disappeared behind the closed door, Voss looked at Izard with a mix of curiosity and unease. “Who was that?”

“An old friend of Eve’s,” Izard replied. “One she’d rather forget.”

The two men shared a knowing glance, and Izard’s eyes glinted with anticipation. I may have to wait a little while longer with Eve. But Hawke, I can handle him now. Tomorrow, the first blow would land, and there would be no going back.

The night was still, but beneath the surface, the game had already begun.

Book I ~ The Deceiver’s Secret By J.A. JACKSON

Book I ~ The Deceiver’s Secret By J.A. JACKSON

Book I Chapter 2

PARTY HEARTY WHO SAYS WE WERE TARDY

The bright lights on the front porch of the old mansion beamed across the grand front door. Loud music echoed as the two friends crossed the threshold.

Carina smiled gingerly at the host as they entered.

Xavier Newhouse’s expressive brown eyes smiled back. He was a local kid that had made good. He was a businessman, a former jock and a self-proclaimed gift to all women.

He reached out and pulled Carina into an embrace like the sister he’d always wanted. “Hey there Miss Cutie, so glad you could make it, oh and your best friend Evie too.”

Eve looked up at the tall man standing in front of her. His jet black curly hair shone against the light. His dark eyes surveyed her in a way that put her on edge.

“Well, well, well, Miss Eve you are on my territory now. Want to pay your toll fees now or later?”

Eve frowned. “Screw you Xavier, and don’t call me Evie.”

“I’ve been trying to screw you but you just won’t let me,” Xavier chuckled.

More people pushed through the front entrance.

Xavier’s tone changed. “Guess what? I’ve got four rooms set up for your dancing pleasure. There are a few folks here from our old high school.”

“Really,” Carina’s gray eyes danced excitedly. “Who?”

“Nicholas La Cour and Quinn Rolandis, you remember them,” Xavier replied.

Eve’s mouth dropped opened. “Really? I had home room class with both of those guys. They were a lot of fun.”

“Nicholas and Quinn were way older than me,” Carina said. “But I was good friends with Nicholas’ sister, Lacey La Cour. Is she here?”

Xavier shook his head. Carina was like a little sister to him. “Sorry sweetness, I haven’t seen Lacey or that big mouth friend of hers Maëlle Mallard,” he smiled softly. “Speaking of big mouth friends, Evie, that red lipstick really looks sexy good on you tonight.”

Eve’s lips curled up into a devilish smile. She flung back her long wavy jet black hair.

“Why thank you Xavier,” she cooed. “Now what about that tall guy Kienan Egan, he was good friends with Nicholas and Quinn, is he here?”

Xavier lifted a brow. “I think I saw him come in,” he hesitated. “Is that what you like Eve, tall geeky guys. What about us solid rock hard jock looking guys? You know jocks are known to be non-stop grinding machines. We can go all night if a woman needs us too.”

Eve feigned innocence and leaned in close and cupped his face. “So Xavier, my red lipstick is really turning you on huh?” She leaned in close and kissed him hard on the lips.

The kiss broke out of control. Xavier groaned and tilted his head devouring Eve’s lips. Eve took a step back and pushed out of his embrace. “My luscious red lips are as delicious as a red velvet cupcake, aren’t they Xavier?”

“Yes indeed,” Xavier said grinning wide.

Eve’s face glowed with mischief as she tore herself away from him and ran her finger down his lips and under his chin, she licked her lips and cooed softly in a smoky sexy voice. “Well then Xavier darling, when is big daddy going to put a ring on it?

“What?” Xavier asked like a quiet marriage scared man. Embarrassment and remorse flooded him. He took a step back.

Eve closed in for the kill and slowly caressed her fingers down his chest. “Wow Xavier, who knew you were husband material.”

“Marriage?” Xavier froze.

“Why yes of course, Xavier darling,” Eve whispered hoarsely. “What did you think I was after, your body?”

Someone muffled a laugh.

Xavier made a face at Eve and then quickly put some distance between them.

“Great to see you Eve,” a woman’s shrill raucous voice sang out. “By the way I like the way you handled Xavier.”

“Kitty Kennard, it’s wonderful to see you again!” Eve exclaimed.

Kitty, a pretty, petite almost fifty-something with a wavy cap of ginger brown hair cut fashionable to frame her face. Kitty was the editor, publisher, and co-proprietor of Talk is Cheap, Events, Announcements and Other Gossiping News. It was a local gossip column and website.

They were famous for knowing the goings on of local people to know. They knew if you were in or out or going up or down in the social scene in the South Bay area. Better known at the Silicon Valley or Geek Nation, as many locals joked.

Kitty giggled. “Same here, so where is baby sister?”

“I’m right behind you Kitty and you know I was hoping we’d see you tonight,” Carina said. “Have you got any hot gossip?”

“God you know I do, are you two all ears?” Kitty asked.

“We are. Start talking, and ladies move in close,” Eve murmured.

Kitty giggled. “Well, Charlene Baptiste is screwing Jacob Whitefield.”

“Everybody knows that,” Carina shrugged.

“Yeah but Jacob’s wife caught them screwing in her bed, and instead of throwing Charlene out on her arse She climbed in bed and joined them. She said seeing the two of them together made her horny again for the first time in years.”

“What?” Eve and Carina said simultaneously.

“Yes and his wife had nerve to tell Charlene that Jacob was so boring in bed. She stopped having sex with him. She was glad he’d started having an affair with her just so that she could watch them. That woman is a total freak.”

“You know Kitty it always amazes me how you know so much dirt on people.”

Kitty smiled and nodded. “Yes it’s a gift I have, folks like to tell me things, and I let them do the talking. Plus, I’m a good observer.”

“Eve!” Suddenly Xavier’s voice sliced the air. “Sorry to interrupt ladies,” he said. “Oh Eve, can I talk with you about something private?”

Eve shook her head. “Not now, I’m in the middle of a conversation here.”

“Later then?” Xavier asked. “And don’t forget to save me a dance.”

“Sure, later,” Eve mumbled.

The three friends watched as Xavier moved away.

Kitty shook her head disapprovingly. “You should have said no Eve.”

Eve and Carina looked at Kitty with disbelief.

“Eve shouldn’t talk with Xavier, huh?” Carina said. “I get it because you think he’s a player?”

Eve scowled. “Wait a minute you two. I’m the one who gets to decide who Eve talks to.”

“Hang on a minute Eve. We should find out what Kitty knows,” Carina said with deep concern. “Okay Kitty what do you know? Spill it.”

Kitty’s eyes grew as wide as saucers. “Just be careful Eve, Xavier can be possessive and old fashioned in his dealings with women. I’ve heard he believes it’s okay to hit a woman to keep her in line.”

“Oh really,” Eve said in disbelief.

“The bastard,” Carina murmured.

Kitty sighed heavily. “Let me give you a word of advice. You two ladies should always remember Prince Charming only exists in fairy tales. And most of all remember what is walking around today among us disguised as men, are really devils…All devils every last one of them.

Oh except for the ones that are just plain dogs.”

“Ah, you know Kitty it was great talking to you. But Carina and I need to talk to someone. Good bye,” Eve said hastily grabbing Carina’s arm and pulling her out of ear shot.

“Eve, we don’t have anyone to meet.”

“Shhhhh Carina, don’t let Kitty know that. That old bird gets loonier every day,” Eve shrugged. “Come on there’s got to be intelligent life at this party somewhere.”

When A Narcissist Says, You Have Trust Issues.” Understanding the Emotional Turmoil…

When A Narcissist Says, You Have Trust Issues.” Understanding the Emotional Turmoil…

Dealing with a narcissist can be an emotionally exhausting experience. Their behavior often leaves us feeling drained, insecure, and questioning our own sanity. In this article, we will explore the complex dynamics of interacting with narcissists, shedding light on the emotional toll it takes and why it’s essential to recognize and address this toxic behavior.

The Narcissist’s Tactic: “You have trust issues.” Narcissists have a knack for deflecting blame and avoiding accountability. When they accuse you of having “trust issues,” it’s not because they genuinely care about your feelings. Instead, it’s a classic example of gaslighting, a manipulation tactic designed to make you doubt your own emotions and experiences. This constant gaslighting wears you down, leaving you dependent on them and isolated like you’re navigating a never-ending emotional maze.

The Ongoing Struggle: Over time, narcissists reveal their true nature by failing to offer support when you need it most. They disregard your feelings and needs, leaving you to grapple with your emotions alone. For those who grew up with narcissistic parents, this behavior might seem all too familiar. They often believe that this is just the way people are, not realizing that healthier relationships exist. Many strive to please others, hoping that it will shield them from further hurt.

The Empathetic Trap: One of the most challenging aspects of dealing with narcissists is their ability to play the victim card. When they harm others, they often present themselves as the wounded party. As empathetic individuals, we naturally try to see the good in them and offer our help. This unwittingly enables their toxic behavior and perpetuates the cycle of abuse.

The Emotional Toll: The emotional toll of dealing with narcissists cannot be overstated. It leaves scars that run deep and can affect every aspect of our lives. Trust is eroded, self-esteem is shattered, and our sense of self-worth takes a beating. The constant manipulation and gaslighting lead to anxiety, depression, and a sense of hopelessness.

Breaking Free: Recognizing the toxic behavior of narcissists is the first step toward breaking free from their grip. It’s essential to establish boundaries and prioritize your emotional well-being. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist who can help you navigate the emotional challenges of dealing with a narcissist.

Conclusion:

Dealing with a narcissist is a journey fraught with emotional turmoil. Understanding their manipulation tactics, recognizing the impact on your emotional well-being, and seeking support are crucial steps toward healing and breaking free from their toxic influence. Remember, you deserve healthy, nurturing relationships that uplift and support you.

Sofia and The Stingray!

Sofia and The Stingray!

Sofía stood at her favorite spot, gazing out over the vast expanse of the ocean. It was a place filled with memories of her mother’s words, echoing like whispers from her childhood. “Sofía, when you turn 24, your life on this Earth will change forever,” her mother had told her with a twinkle in her eye. “Ivan will come into your life, sweep you off your feet, and take you to his grand mansion in the Monterey mountains. You will be happy, my child, no more poverty.”

A solitary tear trickled down Sofía’s cheek as she recalled those cherished words from years gone by. Standing on the bluff, overlooking the tranquil waters, she waited patiently, as she did each day. It was almost three o’clock, the time she knew he would appear. Her eyes remained fixed on the crystal-clear water below.

Sofía’s breath caught in her throat when she saw it — the magnificent creature with enormous black wings, gliding gracefully through the water. It was as if he was flying in the sky, not swimming in the ocean. Ivan had arrived, and joy blossomed in Sofía’s heart. Every encounter with him was like a dream come true, although, in reality, he swam gracefully beneath the surface. That was his nature.

Her mother, Violet, had shared her wisdom about the dream. In her stories, seeing the majestic stingray flying symbolized freedom. People who had this dream were said to receive unexpected rewards — a harbinger of happiness and serendipity.

“Hello, Ivan,” Sofía called out, her voice carried by the sea breeze. “You are so beautiful, Ivan! I love you.”

As Ivan glided past her, an unfamiliar voice echoed back, shattering the serene moment. “I love you too! And I think you are beautiful as well!”

Sofía’s heart raced, and confusion clouded her thoughts. She couldn’t believe what she’d just heard. “Did that stingray just speak to me?” she wondered aloud.

Laughter filled the air, dispelling her bewilderment. “I hope not, because I was hoping to get your attention myself and perhaps take you out,” a man’s voice responded.

Sofía turned abruptly to confront the voice. “Mister, you scared me! I almost jumped out of my skin!”

The man closed the distance between them, a warm smile lighting up his face. “I’m Ivan. Ivan Carlos Goldstein. I’m here to sweep you off your feet, Sofía. You turned 24 two weeks ago. I’m sorry I couldn’t get here sooner. Didn’t your mother tell you I would come?”

Sofía’s voice faltered as she realized the incredible truth unfolding before her eyes. Her mother’s stories had always seemed like fairy tales, but now they were coming to life. She could hardly believe it — a real-life Ivan, just as her mother had promised.

In this story, the symbolism is rich and relatable. The flying stingray symbolizes freedom and the unexpected reward, a universal theme recognized across cultures. Sofía’s

emotions — her nostalgia, joy, and eventual disbelief — are deeply relatable to anyone who has experienced a long-anticipated moment.

Cultural sensitivity is shown through the respect Sofía and Ivan have for her mother’s beliefs and the way they meet at a place with cultural significance to Sofía. As the story unfolds, it follows an archetypal hero’s journey, where Ivan arrives to sweep Sofía off her feet, fulfilling her destiny and her mother’s prophecy.