Blaze, Searing Heat

Blaze, Searing Heat

Nature’s Repercussions Series

~Lisa Powell~

Blaze, Searing Heat

Nature’s Repercussions Series

Blaze, Searing Heat

Copyright 2015 © Lisa Powell

All rights reserved

Published by Smashwords

This book and or any portion of this book may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the copyright owner except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

Published in the United States

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

Writing is a gift. To be good at your gift you need to keep writing.

~Lisa Powell 2013~

Dedication:

A big thanks to my husband Lance. He was patient as I was getting these books finished. The, selective hearing, seems to kick in a lot when the writing creativity starts to flow. He is so understanding I couldn’t have married a better man. I love him dearly.

Author Contact:

Email: mailto:authorlisapowell@hotmail.com?subject=Books

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLisaPowell

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisaannpowell

Web page: http://lisapowell27.wix.com/authorlisapowell

Blog: http://lisaannpowell.blogspot.com/

Books in this Series

Blaze, Searing Heat,

Emma, Caught by Storm,

Chase, Catching Raine,

Other Great Books By Lisa Powell

Captured by Fate

The Power of Love

Trust in my love

Haunted Flame

Cry of a Marksman

Fury of a Marksman

Heart of a Marksman

Self-Published

Table of Contents

About the Author

Prologoue

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

Epilogue

Back to Beginning

Prologue

April was waiting patiently for the mail to arrive. She was waiting on a letter of acceptance for college. She saw the mail carrier and raced to the mailbox. It's got to be there. She was all out of breath by the time she reached it.

Sorry April, not today. Mr. Henson the mail carrier said and handed her the mail.

April's heart dropped. She took the mail into the house and put it on the table. She went upstairs and dreamed what college life would bring for her. She thought getting into college would make her parents proud. Maybe they would accept her and love her like they did her older brother Matt.

Matt was two years older than her and was the apple of their parent's eye. She did have an older sister that died as an infant. Her parents never mentioned her. Her name was Lucy there was only one picture of her in the house. April was born ten months after Lucy's death. As she was growing up, she always felt like she was a punishment, for what, she didn't know. But one day she would make her parents proud.

Her senior year was coming to an end. She was really counting on that scholarship. She wanted to prove to the world she had value in life. Her best friend Samantha, Sammy for short, already got accepted into a college. April thought she didn’t get in.

The following day at school April seemed depressed and Sammy knew why.

The letter will come April, you have to believe that.

I want to, but the year is almost over. You and everyone else have received a letter. She said as they walked to their last class of the day.

Samantha turned and smiled. That's because they are fighting over what college wants you.

April shook her head and grinned she knew Samantha was trying to cheer her up. Well, I wish someone would hurry up and win that fight.

Helloooo… ladies, A familiar voice was heard from behind.

April rolled her eyes. I will catch up with you later. She smiled at Sammy, Hi, bye Keith.

Don't leave on my account. He wrapped his arm around Sammy and she giggled.

I am, believe me, I am. She laughed and walked down the hall.

Sammy looked up at Keith. I’m worried about her.

And why is that?

She still hasn't gotten a letter and she was really counting on one. It should have been there by now. Sammy let out a slow breath.

I am sure it just lost in the mail. He gave her a peck on the cheek. We better get to class. Sammy nodded and they walked into the room.

When April got home from school that day she heard her mother on the phone. She sounded excited about something. April walked over to the table and went through the mail. And there she saw it, the letter. Her heart almost stopped as she stared at it.

…This is it April. Take a deep breath… She reached for the letter with shaking hands. She closed her eyes and held the letter to her chest. She could hear her heart pounding. She slowly pulled it away and opened it and began to read. She squealed with delight as she read the letter. Her mother turned around.

April can't you see I am on the phone! She snapped.

April was waving the letter dancing around. She was so excited she couldn't wait for her mother to hang up the phone. She finally hung up the phone. Mom, guess what! She was smiling ear to ear.

Her mother was excited about something, but not for what April was going to say. Your brother is getting married! Her mother blurted out. This is the happiest day of my life!

April stood there. It felt like a ton of bricks were dropped on her. She cleared her throat. That's great mom.

You should be more excited. Didn't you hear what I said?

Yes, mom, I did. She held out the letter. Look, I got accepted into college. I am going to get a business degree. She was all smiles.

College? That's good. Now I have a wedding to plan. She pushed past April and left her standing there. April's eyes filled with tears as she went up to her room.

As she was lying on her bed, she tried to think of what she has done so wrong. After she cried for a while she called Sammy. Sammy tried to cheer her up, but it wasn't happening.

Graduation day was finally here April and Sammy graduated. Sammy was leaving for college after graduation. April was going to leave in a month. Her parents were so caught up in Matt's wedding arrangements they almost missed the graduation ceremonies.

Everyone seemed to be happy for April, well everyone but her parents. She never could understand why they hated her so bad. That's how she felt anyway.

Sammy hugged her. Well, we made it.

Yes, we did. I am really going to miss you. April teared.

I am going to miss you. And I know you are going to do awesome in college April. You have to believe that.

April nodded as she looked at her parents. They were sitting with Matt and his fiancée Debra. Yeah, I know.

When is the wedding shower?

Tomorrow.

When do you leave?

The end of the month.

Things will get better April, you’ll see. You will be your own woman, strong, independent in a kick ass kind of way, Sammy smiled.

Thanks Sammy that means a lot. They hugged again and Sammy left to find her parents.

April drew in a deep breath and went to hers. She couldn't believe the only thing they were talking about was the wedding. Her mother told her they couldn't afford a wedding shower and a graduation party. And the wedding was more important. So again April was shoved to the side.

The following day was the wedding shower. April was pushed aside like always. Her mother didn't have time or wouldn't make time for her. Her father and brother were out doing men things. She watched the party as she sat on the arm of the couch. Debra started opening gifts.

Oh, this is so beautiful. She would say as she opened the gifts. She thanked each person as she did.

Here Debra, this one is from me. April's mom handed her a gift. April didn't even know what it was.

Debra's eyes got big. This is gorgeous. Thank you Mrs. Steele.

It was my mothers. I wanted you to have it. She smiled. She had tears in her eyes.

April's eyes narrowed. Her jaw dropped. …What the hell mom?... It was her grandmother's necklace.

I don't know what to say. Debra just admired the necklace.

Call me mom. You're just like the daughter I never had.

That jolted April. It hit her hard and she had enough. April stood. You do have a daughter mom. She stood there looking at her mother. …Why? Why? I don't understand….

The room got quiet. Her mother looked at her with disgust. Oh, right. She paused. Anyway, let's see what else you got. Everyone turned their attention back to the bride to be.

April turned and left the room. She felt numb, she hurt so bad she couldn't even muster up a tear. She went up to her room and packed. She left a note on her dresser and walked back downstairs. She glanced at the party going on in the other room. She walked out the door and kept right on going, she never looked back.

Chapter 1

The five o'clock alarm went off and April groaned. I need more sleep! She sat up and rubbed her eyes. She stuffed her feet into her slippers and shuffled her way into the kitchen. She put on a pot of coffee and headed to the bathroom.

She looked into the mirror. Why do you put yourself through this torture? She groaned again. She splashed cool water on her face to wake up some more. These late work nights were getting to her. She shuffled her way back into the kitchen and grabbed a cup of coffee. She sat down at the table and booted up her computer.

Why do you work for this arrogant man? Oh yeah a six figure income. Keep reminding yourself of that. She said as she sipped her coffee. April was hired at Blaze Corporations over a year ago. She was hired to be Mr. Blaze Richard’s personal assistant. She thought it was her dream job and it would be a breeze, until she met the man. She hated everything about him. He went through assistance's like a rotating door. They either quit or he fired them. She is the only one that has lasted more than a year. She learned what she had to in order to keep the job. She hid her personal assets. It was Yes Sir, No Sir, she was his maid picking up his dry cleaning, making his coffee and any other little thing he wanted her to do. She also kept him on schedule for appointments. Booked reservations, set up meetings, canceled them. Covered for him when a lady friend came to see him and he was out with another. He depended on her a lot.

There were perks for her though, company car and a company account. Some travel, parties and exclusive restaurants. Richards made it a point for April to be at dinner meetings ever since she saved a client from choking.

April took another sip. Let's see what we have today Mr. Richards. She scrolled down to see what was on the agenda. It gave her some insight what the day would be like. Not a bad day. She got up and got ready for the day.

She made it to her office. She was always early. She doesn't know why she even bothered, but it was something she has done from the start. She got everything ready for when he arrived. She took a few deep breaths sat down and began working, waiting for him.

An hour later her phone rang in from her boss's office. Miss Steele.

April closed her eyes. She hated the sound of his voice. He always sounded impatient to her. Yes Mr. Richards.

My office, He said abruptly. Blaze Richards was a self-made millionaire. He was superficial, arrogant and chauvinistic. He snapped his fingers and expected everyone to jump. And they did. He spent his money frivolously. He never had a true relationship. People kissed his ass and that's what he wanted.

Right away, April rolled her eyes. She picked up her tablet and phone and went into the office.

What do we have going on today? He glanced up from his desk.

You have a nine o'clock meeting with Mr. O'Neil. Lacy is coming in at ten thirty. I cleared your schedule for an hour. Lacy was one of his many female companions. He bought and paid for her double d's and her big ass. When she came in to see him it only meant one thing.

Blaze smiled. That's why I hired you. What else?

April cleared her throat. You are disgusting. Mr. Shaffer is coming in at eleven thirty. He said if you canceled one more time he is pulling stocks. He wanted to be here a half hour earlier, but I talked him out of it. So I suggest you don't go into overtime with Lacy. She cleared her throat, knowing that what she just said would set Blaze off.

Blaze stood. He put his hands on his desk and leaned forward. His eyes narrowed. You suggest? Who in the hell are you suggesting me to do anything? Remember who signs your paycheck. He glared at her.

What an ass... Yes Mr. Richards. April was biting her tongue. She wanted to tell him off so bad. But she thought about the income.

Just then there was a knock on the door. One of Blaze's best and only true friend stopped in Trace. Trace was a lifelong friend of Blaze. They started the company together. They separated for a while and went their own ways but ended up becoming partners again. Trace was more or less the silent partner. He didn’t need all the power, fame and recognition Blaze craved. He liked the quieter side of life. He found and produced new talent.

Hey Trace come in. What's going on? Richards said.

Blaze, we still on for tonight?

Tonight? He looked at April.

Yes, you have dinner reservations at The Stans.

Oh yes, that's right. I hope you don't have plans Miss Steele? He glanced at her. Of course you don't. Why would you. He grimaced when he looked at her. He cut her down again and again. It happened on a daily basis.

April never let go of her temper. Jerk, ass, inconsiderate... Calm April, calm. Stay cool six figure income. Remember that. Yes, my schedule is open.

I figured so. He chuckled. Now is there anything else?

No Mr. Richards.

Good. Oh, and while you're at it, drop that off at the cleaners. He pointed to a suit hanging in a closet.

April almost lost it. She glared at him. He put his hands on the desk. Do you have a problem with that Miss Steele?

Cool. Keep coo April. She cleared her throat. No Mr. Richards. She went over and took the suit.

Trace nodded at her as she walked out the door.

Why are you so arrogant with her?

April?

Yes April.

Someone needs to put her in her place. Did you see the way she looked at me? I don't know why I keep that woman around. No respect, I tell you. He shook his head.

The reason you keep her, is she is the only one who puts up with your shit. And you haven't tried to sleep with her, yet.

"Sleep with Her? Are you kidding me? Blaze laughed. That isn't even my type. Besides, she is probably too vanilla anyways."

That's never stopped you before.

Well, let's just say she has no tits or ass, nothing to grab onto. And she wears her hair in that God awful braid thing. Don't get me started on those oversized glasses. He shook his head. She is only good for one thing, ordering around. He laughed.

April could hear them talking because the door was left ajar. She held back. This is a job, a six figure job. Someday you will have your dream.

Well, one of these days your superficial way of thinking is going to bite you in the ass. Trace shook his head.

And what's wrong with some tits and ass? Nothing, you don't seem to complain.

No I don't but I have a little respect.

Very little. Well, enough about this. We will catch up tonight.

Trace nodded and walked out the door. He nodded and smiled at April when he walked by.

April nodded and went about her business. She dreaded the upcoming night.

Like always, the dinner meeting was a bore. It was the same old thing, Blaze needing to be the center of attention. Flirting with all the pretty women as they walked by and charming the client's wife.

One woman that night gave Blaze a what for. April held in her laughter so hard it hurt. When the evening was over it was eleven pm. By the time she got home it was after midnight. She dragged herself to her condo. Opened the door, closed and locked it behind her. She dropped her purse, stripped off her clothes and collapsed into bed.

When her five o'clock alarm went off, she knocked the alarm clock on the floor. Damn it! I just fell asleep. She growled. She dragged herself out of bed and got ready for the day. The only good thing about this day is it was Friday.

She and Sammy always went out on Friday nights at a karaoke club near their homes. Sammy and Keith married after college and they worked in the same city. Keith was on his way up the lawyer ladder and Sammy was into interior design.

April's cell rang. The ring tone told her it was Sammy. Hey Sammy I am just on my way out.

How is that miserable boss of yours treating you?

Worse than ever, April shook her head. I just have to remember the benefits and pay.

Someday it won't be worth it. But we will save that for another day. Are you ready for tonight?

Definitely, I can't wait to let my hair down. She laughed.

Same here, Keith is working on a case so his plans are shot with the boys. She laughed.

Awe poor baby, April snickered.

Yeah, he is crying like one too. She laughed, and then continued. I will meet you at the club at eight?

Eight it is, as long as Mr. Richards doesn't have something up his sleeve.

Tell him you have plans. Tonight is a big night competition.

Yeah, yeah, well I hate to rush, but...

Yes, I know. No personal calls on business time. You are always on business time. Samantha snapped.

Unless it's an emergency, April threw in.

Sammy rolled her eyes, He’s such a prude.

April laughed, See you later. And she hung up. She took a deep breath and walked into the building. She walked to the elevator and got in and pushed the appropriate button.

April made it to the office. She started the coffee and had it ready for when he came in. She made sure the temperature in his office is set right. She made sure his files were ready. She booted up his computer. Then she would return to her desk.

The other office employees start to arrive and April sat to go over the day's agenda again. She wanted to make sure she didn't miss anything. The room fell quiet and she knew he had arrived. It happened the same way every day. She looked up from her desk. Good morning Mr. Richards. He ignored her like usual.

My coffee, He growled.

It's ready. And he walked away. Not even a thank you. She looked back down and waited for his call.

The day seemed to drag, but it was finally over. Between the meetings, appointments and Blaze's female companions, April just wanted to go home and sleep. But she had a big night ahead of her.

Chapter 2

April made it to the night club. The usual whistles and hey baby, were aimed at her. She smiled and shook her head as she walked to her usual table where Sammy was waiting.

You look mighty fine. Sammy looked her up and down.

Well, according to my boss, I have no tits or ass. She shrugged.

What! That pig! I don't know what he is looking at but you have plenty of both! I don't know why you try to please him so much. Why do you care what he thinks?

I don't. It just aggravates me the way he treats people, especially women.

Well, enough about work. Tonight it's your night to shine. Sammy lifted her glass. She ordered April her favorite drink and it was waiting for her. She picked it up.

Cheers! The glasses clinked and then the lights on the stage came on.

I am so excited. Sammy nudged April.

Me too, and you know, a little nervous.

Just remember, it's for fun.

You're right. April smiled as the announcer came on the stage.

Good evening everyone. Tonight we have our karaoke sing off! Everyone applauded. We will judge our contestants by our applause meter. He pointed to the meter sitting on the side of the stage. We start off with twenty singers. Every Friday night two will be eliminated. The last two singing will be in the sing off, Another round of applause. Now let's get this show on the road. This is our sing off order. First, we have Ariel, Jake, Roger, Lynn, April, Sarah, Ken, Tanner, Mary… He rattled on some more names. Everyone applauded as he stepped down and the first contestant took the stage.

Everyone sang their hearts out. The applaud meter hit 85 at the highest so far. When it was Aprils turn, things changed. She sang Addicted to Love, by Robert Palmer. She strutted her stuff across the stage performing to the song as well. After her song the applaud meter hit 100. Sammy