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'Forever Series' Box Set (Books 1 and 2)
'Forever Series' Box Set (Books 1 and 2)
'Forever Series' Box Set (Books 1 and 2)
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'Forever Series' Box Set (Books 1 and 2)

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THE 'FOREVER SERIES' BOX SET - BOOKS 1 AND 2

FOREVER IS MINE
(Book 1 in the ‘Forever’ series)

Every so often someone special comes in to your life and it is so monumental that it marks time. It’s like a date is forever imprinted on your heart. After that, everything before pales in comparison and you wonder what you ever did without them....

Feeling the need for a change in life, Ava Lucas boards a plane for LA to work with her movie star sister. After making a vow to steer clear of men while she is there, she comes face to face with danger and temptation - all wrapped up in a 6 foot, blue-eyed, smoking-hot package. Her promise to herself is compromised as soon as she locks eyes with her sister’s gorgeous co-star, but already knowing his reputation with women, can she resist?

Ethan Drake is Hollywood royalty. Hot and charismatic. A total player. He sets his sights on Ava from the moment he lays eyes on her and what starts as a conquest turns in to more as she manages to chip away at the walls he has built over the years to protect his heart.

Can Ava resist the powerful lure of Ethan and stay true to her promise? Can Ethan bury his demons and turn his back on his playboy ways to convince Ava to be his?

FOREVER IS YOURS
(Book 2 in the ‘Forever’ series)

When I look at you, I smile for no reason. I had no idea that the day I met you, I was meeting the person who would become not just my heart, but my everything....
Olivia Lucas is the latest Hollywood ‘it’ girl. Her first movie is a huge box-office success and she is in hot demand. For a down-to-earth Australian girl, her life is pretty spectacular - beyond her wildest dreams in fact - and although she is revelling in the limelight, she really just wants what her younger sister Ava has.... Someone to love her for herself and not the star she has become.

Grayson Adams is the lead singer of Awesome Rebel. He is a hard-working, dedicated and supremely talented musician who has the looks to carry his talent all the way to the top. Awesome Rebel has just been signed to a major record label and Grayson’s life is about to change monumentally.

Grayson has been wildly attracted to Olivia since his best friend, Ethan, introduced them, but she has been unavailable to him...until now.

When circumstances find them both living under the same roof, a special relationship develops. When filming movies and touring with a rock band intrudes, their time together is ripped apart and the relationship is put to the test.

Can they put their relationship first while still fighting for the careers that they have both worked so hard for? Is there a way to have both?

LanguageEnglish
PublisherWendy Louise
Release dateMar 23, 2016
ISBN9780994237972
'Forever Series' Box Set (Books 1 and 2)
Author

Wendy Louise

I am so excited to share my novels with you. I’ve had a wonderful time over the last 18 months, writing and dreaming up stories. I never thought I would have so many ideas, and there have been days where my fingers couldn’t type quickly enough to get the words on to the page. It has been a long journey but now that I am ready to let my ‘book babies’ go, I am so proud of the final products. In my ‘normal’ life, I am married with two young children living in Melbourne, Australia. Reading is my favourite pastime, and I usually have one or two books on the go at a time. I can’t devour them fast enough. Somehow I managed to get my first book written while still working full time, raising two busy children and still reading a couple of books a week! Most nights you will find me curled up on the sofa with a good book, a block of chocolate and a trashy TV show playing in the background. I hope you enjoy my 'Forever' series books, as much as I enjoyed writing them. Please feel free to make contact with me. I would love to hear from you and I look forward to your feedback. Happy Reading!

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    'Forever Series' Box Set (Books 1 and 2) - Wendy Louise

    Reviews of Forever is Mine:

    I loved this book! I loved the characters. I loved the story line. I loved everything about it. Can’t wait for the next one. I read it in one sitting. It’s a must-read!

    Rosie J on Goodreads

    "I just wanted to let you know that I LOVE your book Forever is Mine. I couldn’t put it down when I was reading it. I loved every bit of it and I cannot wait for the second book. I just wanted to say thank you for writing an awesome book…"

    Tiarna via email

    "…I love your book Forever is Mine, and the passion I have for reading this book and only this book is unbelievable. I read it over and over again…I never knew I could be in love with a book."

    Ellie via email

    Smashwords Edition

    Forever is Mine & Forever is Yours

    Copyright 2015 Wendy Louise Books

    Published by Wendy Louise Books

    All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the author.

    All characters in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead is purely coincidental.

    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. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author

    Cover and Interior design by:

    www.emtippettsbookdesigns.com

    Table of Contents

    Reviews of Forever is Mine

    Title Page

    Books by Wendy Louise

    Forever is Mine

    Dedication

    Prologue

    Chapter One

    Chapter Two

    Chapter Three

    Chapter Four

    Chapter Five

    Chapter Six

    Chapter Seven

    Chapter Eight

    Chapter Nine

    Chapter Ten

    Chapter Eleven

    Chapter Twelve

    Chapter Thirteen

    Chapter Fourteen

    Chapter Fifteen

    Chapter Sixteen

    Chapter Seventeen

    Chapter Eighteen

    Chapter Nineteen

    Chapter Twenty

    Chapter Twenty One

    Chapter Twenty Two

    Chapter Twenty Three

    Chapter Twenty Four

    Chapter Twenty Five

    Chapter Twenty Six

    Chapter Twenty Seven

    Chapter Twenty Eight

    Chapter Twenty Nine

    Chapter Thirty

    Chapter Thirty One

    Chapter Thirty Two

    Chapter Thirty Three

    Epilogue

    Acknowledgments

    Forever is Yours

    Dedication

    Quote

    Prologue

    Chapter One

    Chapter Two

    Chapter Three

    Chapter Four

    Chapter Five

    Chapter Six

    Chapter Seven

    Chapter Eight

    Chapter Nine

    Chapter Ten

    Chapter Eleven

    Chapter Twelve

    Chapter Thirteen

    Chapter Fourteen

    Chapter Fifteen

    Chapter Sixteen

    Chapter Seventeen

    Chapter Eighteen

    Chapter Nineteen

    Chapter Twenty

    Chapter Twenty one

    Chapter Twenty two

    Chapter Twenty three

    Chapter Twenty four

    Chapter Twenty five

    Chapter Twenty six

    Chapter Twenty seven

    Chapter Twenty eight

    Chapter Twenty nine

    Chapter Thirty

    Chapter Thirty one

    Chapter Thirty two

    Chapter Thirty three

    Chapter Thirty four

    Chapter Thirty five

    Chapter Thirty six

    Chapter Thirty seven

    Epilogue

    Acknowledgments

    FOREVER IS OURS

    About the Author

    Side by Side

    Copyright Notice

    ‘Side by Side’ Series

    Side by Side

    On Your Side (Coming in 2016)

    ‘Forever’ Series – reading order

    Forever is Mine

    Forever is Yours

    Forever is Ours (Coming in 2016)

    ‘Rock Stars of Rewind’ Series

    For Jagger’s Love (Coming in 2016)

    For Bowie’s Trust (Coming in 2016)

    To my sister, Jo, who was the first person to read this book and love Ethan and Ava as much as I do. I would never have been able to write about Ava and Olivia without having such a great sister to draw inspiration from.

    Hugs X

    I roll to my back and toss the condom to the floor. As I stare at the ceiling, the hottie to my left rolls to her side and places her head on my chest. Her dark hair fans out over my arm, tickling it as it pulls across my skin. She starts to run her fingernails across my abs, scratching as she goes. Before the sex, this would have turned me on, now it’s annoying me.

    Wanna do that again? she says in a sing-song voice as her hand trails lower.

    That’s my cue.

    My cue to leave.

    I gently remove myself from under her and search the floor for my jeans.

    You’re leaving? she says, sitting up quickly and tossing her long hair over one shoulder.

    Yep, I say as I button my fly and grab my t-shirt from under the bedside table.

    She gives me a tight smile and says, I guess what they say about you is true.

    Yeah and what’s that?

    This girl is starting to piss me off and the fact that I can’t remember her name is not helping.

    You really do use women for one thing…

    Now she’s really pissing me off.

    She only wanted me for one thing last night and she got it.

    Twice.

    Not to mention the fact that she has bragging rights – I bagged Ethan Drake!

    So what the hell is her problem now?

    I never promised you anything but great sex and that’s what you got sweetheart, I throw back.

    "The great Ethan Drake, she says through her teeth, the Sex God with no emotions."

    I’ll take that title as a compliment, I say as I try to find my car keys.

    You’re a pig, she says as I start to head out of the room.

    I’m not going to argue with that assessment either. Call me what you will, Sex God, Pig, I can be either of those things.

    The women I sleep with only want me because of who I am and what they can get from me. So I flaunt it. Who wouldn’t? But at the end of the day, doesn’t that make them the same as me? They use me in the same way as I use them.

    I make my way to the door to leave and toss a Thanks over my shoulder.

    Hey I’m not a total asshole!

    I manage to get through the door before the shoe she throws at me hits the other side. I can hear her yelling at me from her position on the bed, but she is already a memory to me. I won’t be going there again.

    I never do. No repeat performances for me.

    I push the button for the elevator and take a deep breath. I’ve just had great sex with a hot chick. Most guys would give their left nut to have a night like I just did.

    So why do I feel so hollow inside?

    Hollywood here I come

    I’ve never been good at saying goodbye. I stress and worry over the moment that I have to actually do it for weeks on end before it is upon me, and then I generally fall apart.

    Leaving behind moments in time has never been easy for me. Change has always been a dirty word.

    I have been worrying over the goodbye that is now staring me in the face for weeks.

    "Don’t forget to call if you need anything….. my mum says, emphasizing the last word in a drawn out way; …and say hello to your sister for us, give her a big kiss."

    She embraces me in a warm hug. I shut my eyes and tighten my grip on her. This one will have to last me for a while. I inhale her scent, all jasmine and daisy, and commit it to memory. It makes me feel safe.

    Dad wraps his large arms around us both and squeezes. He can sense Mum’s imminent emotional crumble. Stay safe over there kiddo, he says with a smile. Don’t go falling in love with any American men; I want you to come back! One daughter living over there is more than enough.

    I pull back from their double embrace and raise my eyebrows at my dad. That’s the last thing you need to worry about Dad. I am steering clear of the men over there.

    Good girl, just go and enjoy yourself. He smiles his charming smile and passes me the handle for my hand luggage. Give Olivia a big kiss from me too.

    I will. I love you both. I pull them both in for one last hug and then bend to grab my bag.

    Mum’s eyes are starting to gloss over so it is time for me to head off. I can’t see her cry; it will just set me off too. After a final glance over my shoulder and a wave, I make my way through the departure gate and in to Customs.

    On my way to a new life.

    Change.

    That word keeps swirling through my brain but I push it back. The normal panic that I feel whenever I think about the change I’m undertaking gets squashed down as I breathe deeply and focus on the task at hand.

    After 4 years of studying for a Journalism Degree at Melbourne University in Australia, I’m about to board a plane for the bright lights of Los Angeles and leave behind everything and everyone that makes me feel safe and comforted. I always like life to be safe and comfortable, so right now I’m wondering what on Earth I am thinking in agreeing to fly half way around the world to work for my sister.

    My older sister is Olivia Lucas, upcoming Hollywood Actress and star of what is hoped to be one of the highest grossing movies of the year – Forever is mine.

    As I stand in line at the Customs counter, waiting to have my passport stamped I think of the new job that awaits me in LA. Olivia needs a Personal Assistant on set and begged me to come and work with her. She said that she didn’t want some ‘Hollywood type’ that would be mindlessly at her beck and call, sucking up at every opportunity. She wants someone she can trust and confide in, and that’s me.

    We’ve always been close despite the 4 year age gap. She has always been my best friend and confidante, even since she has been living in the States. We always make sure to talk at least twice a week to catch up on each other’s lives.

    After getting through Customs, I decide to peruse the duty free shop to kill some time. I have an hour to spare before my flight boards. I want to bring something for Olivia, so I settle on a small bottle of her favourite perfume before paying for it and heading to the Ladies Room to freshen up.

    I’ve dressed comfortably in my Levis, pale blue converse and a loose fitting cardigan that drapes warmly around my body. My long, naturally wavy brown hair is pulled back in to a ponytail and I have kept my make up to a minimum thinking of the fourteen hour flight ahead of me, and not wanting ‘panda eyes’ when I land. Although I’m sure they are inevitable.

    I am so ready for this trip. I need to escape the reality of life for a while and move outside my comfort zone. Life for me has always been about doing the right thing. Working hard at school, because that’s what was expected; studying at University because that was the natural progression to take. Being with the right guy, the nice guy, because that’s what someone like me does.

    Well, didn’t that turn out great!

    I was with Cole for two years until I found out that he had been cheating on me with not one but two other girls.

    I was devastated.

    Completely ripped in half!

    The weird thing about it all now is that the more I look back on our relationship, the more I realise that I was with him because he was comfortable and he represented what everyone thought was right for me. Good job, good family, good looks. In hindsight, that was all deceiving, and he was so wrong for me on so many levels. Breaking up with him was the best thing I could have done two months ago, but it still hurts. I miss the friendship and companionship - but not him.

    They finally call my flight, so I gather my handbag, my carry on case and my magazines and join the queue ready to board. I take a deep breath and look out the large airport windows one last time at the Melbourne sun, shining brightly and casting warm rays across the carpet.

    Here goes nothing.

    I’ve packed my ipad and loaded it up with books and movies to help me get through the long haul flight. I know the in-flight entertainment is there, but I wanted to read. There’s nothing better than getting lost in a book. Once situated in my economy class seat at the back of the plane, I pull it out and start to read to pass some time. An older lady sits next to me and nods to say hello. She settles herself and pulls out a book. I am hoping that we will both sit and do our own thing for the next fourteen hours. I am not averse to talking to people on planes, but I don’t want to make small talk for the entire journey.

    Following a light lunch of pasta, salad, chocolate mousse and those little crackers with portion control cheese – I love those - I decide to put my headphones on and listen to music while trying to settle in to sleep. I decide on Adele, because her music is really soothing to me. While listening to her singing about Turning Tables, I must have succumbed to sleep because I don’t wake until the Flight Attendants are starting to serve juice and coffee in preparation for breakfast.

    I am now only 3 hours from my destination and the butterflies in my stomach turn into bats and begin to flutter. I am so excited, yet nervous, not knowing what to expect in this new city that I will call home for the next twelve months.

    Once the Captain announces that we are about to make our descent in to LA, I am scared. My heart is beating so fast behind my ribs; I need to calm myself with a few deep breaths. How do people do this when they don’t have anyone to meet them at the other end? If I didn’t have Olivia here with me, I would be a basket case. I take a few more calming breaths and peer out the window to see the land below while ensuring that my seat belt is securely fastened.

    As I step through the doors at LAX I am welcomed by the bright morning sunshine streaming through the large glass windows. It reminds me of the sight I left behind in Melbourne. That somehow makes me feel a little more at home.

    A little more at ease.

    I come across a smartly dressed lady ahead with a sign stating my name, standing near the exit. She looks like a cross between a security guard and a chauffeur, with her pressed black slacks, crisp white shirt, black tie and black hat. I don’t recognise her but make my way over to her, dodging all the travellers as I go. Not an easy task with the luggage trolley. This airport is so busy, it blows my mind.

    Hi, I’m Ava Lucas, I say as I reach her, offering my hand for her to shake.

    Good Morning Miss Lucas, I’m Miranda. Your sister sent me to collect you and asked me to drop you off at the Studio. She hopes that you don’t mind, but she had an early call time this morning.

    No worries, I reply, handing the luggage trolley over to her as she reaches for it.

    Miranda is all efficiency and professionalism in one smart package. She helps me to navigate the airport and car park with my luggage and soon afterwards I am situated in the back of a sleek black SUV, heading towards the freeway and the studio. The car is very luxurious and smells of new leather seats. It makes me feel like someone important and suddenly I get a small glimpse of what life must be like for my soon-to-be-superstar sister.

    I’m in awe of the city as it flies past the windows. I cannot believe how many freeways there are here and how they wind their way around each other. I will never be able to work out which one to take or where to go. In Melbourne we only have a few freeways and they pretty much go in a straight line compared to this. They are easy to navigate, but these look terrifying. Suddenly the thought of driving in my adopted city sends a chill to my stomach.

    Miranda seems completely at ease weaving her way through the mountain of traffic, so I nestle back in my seat and try to take in as much as I can. The palm trees, the billboards, the city buildings, it is all so exciting. As we continue, I start to see landmarks that I have only ever seen in movies, or on TV. The sight of the Hollywood sign up on the hill to my right makes me squeal as we pass it. Miranda looks at me in the rear view mirror in a way that tells me that I am not the first person to have that reaction in her presence. I apologise to her for my little outburst and return to my city gazing out the car window, silently. She doesn’t seem the type to chat.

    We continue for some time until Miranda tells me that we have arrived at our destination. I am excited to see that we have pulled through the gates at Universal Studios. I try to contain myself this time so that no unexpected squeals leave my throat. I need to act professionally; there are going to be many OMG moments now that I’m here.

    We meander our way through parking lots and roadways that lead us to the back lot of the studios. I watch as eager tourists are undergoing a tour of the area in a little train car. They’re all madly snapping photos and videos of everything around them. I feel like I belong in the train car with them rather than wherever I’m currently headed.

    The car pulls up outside a huge warehouse-like building with Studio A written on the side of it. Miranda opens my car door and leads me through the large door. We walk down a long corridor to an area that looks like it is reserved for guests.

    Please wait here Miss Lucas, she says, someone will be with you shortly. I’ll ensure that your luggage makes its way to your sister’s apartment.

    Thank you Miranda.

    I turn to take in my surroundings. The room I’m in has a large dark leather couch and a long table against the wall that is full of beautifully presented food and drinks. I’m feeling quite hungry but I’m too scared to touch anything in case it isn’t permitted, so I sit myself down on the inviting looking couch and wait. I’m exhausted so I pull out my ipad to read while I wait. I need to make sure that I don’t drift in to sleep.

    Fifteen minutes and one chapter later I hear her before I see her.

    There is no mistaking the Australian accent or the gorgeous laugh that echoes down the hall towards where I am waiting. Rounding the corner is my beautiful sister. I rise out of the chair, but her beauty stops me in my tracks.

    She’s wearing a long white fluffy robe. Her long dark hair has been curled to perfection and is bouncing against her shoulders as she moves, and her make-up, although heavy, accentuates every feature on her flawless face. She is quite simply - dazzling.

    Olivia always knew that she wanted to be an actress. When we were young she would put together theatre shows with all the local children in our neighbourhood and charge the parents and neighbours a small price to watch them. They were always pretty amateur and we would all giggle our way through the dialogue, but Olivia always took them so seriously. She was really good, even back then. I’ve always envied her drive and the fact that she had a dream and she is going for it.

    Most people don’t have the courage to do that. Especially in a town like Hollywood that can eat you up and spit you out in the blink of an eye.

    My attention turns from Olivia to the cute guy behind her who is hanging on her every word. He holds an ipad and it sounds as if he is trying to schedule some time with her, for what, I don’t know. As she spots me, her face lights up and she almost runs to engulf me in the biggest hug. As her arms go around me, I realise that I’ve missed seeing her so much. Her hug alone makes me feel welcome and a little less stressed about this whole adventure I’m undertaking. It feels like a little bit of home is here with me.

    Ava I missed you so much, I’m so glad that you’re here. She squeezes me hard, her fluffy robe enveloping and calming me along with the scent of her perfume.

    I pull back. Hi Sis, I missed you too. How are you? I ask as I take her in, raking my eyes from her head to her toes.

    She looks happy and exclaims, I’m great, wonderful really, this is all so exciting. I’m undergoing costume fittings and styling at the moment, hence the robe, so please excuse the look! She sweeps her hand theatrically down her body to highlight her attire.

    I don’t know what she’s talking about. She looks amazing.

    She leads me back to the couch and gestures towards the young man that has followed her in. Ava, this is Joshua; he is Ethan Drake’s Personal Assistant. You two will probably get to know each other really well, so I wanted him to come meet you as soon as you arrived. Joshua, this is my sister Ava.

    Ah yes, Ethan Drake.

    Olivia is starring alongside true Hollywood royalty, or at least the son of.

    Ethan Drake is playing her romantic lead. He is a true Hollywood celebrity, but this is his first feature film role. Ethan is the son of one of Hollywood’s most loved leading ladies, Elizabeth Drake. Elizabeth was a huge movie star in the 80’s and 90’s, but to this day she is still looked upon as ‘America’s Sweetheart’, in the very same way that Australia has adopted Liv. This country loves her.

    Joshua steps forward pulling my attention.

    Hi, Joshua Roberts, great to meet you Ava. Olivia has been so excited about you coming. I feel like I know you already with what she has told me.

    Joshua is tall, but shorter than Olivia. He has dark brown hair that has been styled in to choppy spikes on top of his head. He has deep green eyes and an amazing smile, and is dressed casually in cargo pants and a tight black t-shirt that accentuates what looks to be a great body underneath. He smiles and gives me his hand. He is a real cutie.

    After shaking my hand for what feels like forever, he drops it to continue his conversation with Olivia.

    So Liv, he says. Ethan wants to run lines on the scene you’re filming tomorrow. Have you got some free time today?

    What time Josh?

    Ethan has a window free from 11am for an hour. Would that work?

    Perfect, tell him I’ll see him then.

    Joshua turns on his heel but before leaving the room, glances back at me, and smiles. I can’t wait to work with you Ava! I’ll see you soon.

    I’m grateful that he seems like a nice guy and will be easy to be around. I was worried that everyone was going to be snobby and difficult to work with. I mean I’m from Australia and have never worked in this Industry before, so I’m sure that will be frowned upon by some.

    So tell me everything about home Ava, how are Mum and Dad? Liv asks as she sits down.

    I proceed to update her on all the news from home and tell her how proud of her everyone is.

    I’m so sorry that I couldn’t pick you up from the airport today. I got called in early. We should be able to head back to the apartment mid-afternoon. I can’t wait to show you around LA.

    I can’t wait to see the apartment and LA. I am so happy to be here with you Liv.

    Not as happy as I am to have you here. I have missed you all so much. She stands and grabs a bottle of water and a fancy looking sandwich from the table for each of us. Come on, she says, I want to show you my dressing room and I need to introduce you to a few people.

    For the first time since arriving, I feel the excitement creep back in, taking the place of my nerves.

    Meeting the Ethan Drake

    I follow Olivia back down the long corridor and around another corner. We arrive at a door that has a name plate on it stating - Olivia Lucas - in bold gold letters. It also has a gold star to the side of her name.

    Very clichéd, but so Hollywood.

    I’m so proud and excited for her that I quickly grab my iphone and snap a shot of it. Once I sort out what network I can use for my phone over here, I’m going to text that shot to everyone back home. They will all be so impressed.

    Olivia just breezes past it like it is no big deal and opens the door to her dressing room, gesturing me through.

    It is huge.

    There is a wall of mirrors with a white marble bench along it. The bench holds cosmetics, hair products and perfumes. There are so many of them that I can’t imagine that one person could need all that. There are two very comfortable black leather seats under the bench that I assume are used when Olivia is being made-up and pampered.

    The wall opposite has a long black leather couch with silver scatter cushions. It looks so comfortable, and I would be quite happy to lie down, curl up, and take a nap at the moment if I could.

    The bathroom is here if you need it, Olivia says as she opens another door at the back corner of the room. The white marble theme is continued in here with a huge tub and a large shower. More mirrors grace the wall over the vanity and little light bulbs rim the mirrors.

    Very movie-star-esque.

    Here Ava, let’s sit and eat, you must be hungry.

    My stomach answers her question with a growl and we both laugh.

    There is a special office down the hall that will be yours. Joshua works from there too. He’ll be able to show you the ropes around here, and he is a great guy.

    He seems very sweet, I say as I take a bite of my sandwich.

    He is. Ava, I’m so happy to have you here, I like knowing that I have someone I love with me. This place can feel like it is eating you alive sometimes. Not everyone is as genuine as Josh, so you need to be careful. There are so many jealous people around, people who will do anything to get ahead.

    Thanks for the warning, but I’m sure I will be able to tell the difference between the genuine ones and the assholes.

    I’ve always prided myself on my ability to read people.

    I guess I let myself down where Cole was concerned though. I push him from my mind and take another bite of my lunch.

    Olivia smiles. You’ve always been such a sweetie Ava, and I just want you to be careful and guard yourself. Hollywood can be a tough place.

    She replaces the cap on to her bottle of water and places her half eaten sandwich on to the side table. Come on, let me show you your office, I’m sure Josh is back there by now, he can help you get settled.

    Olivia starts to walk towards the door of her dressing room and turns to me. "One more thing. Ethan may be in the office with Josh. He can seem very Hollywood," she says, using her fingers to accentuate the word.

    As you know, his mother is in the business so he has grown up in this industry. He is used to getting what he wants and can make life difficult for newbies. He doesn’t seem to trust people he doesn’t know, a side-effect of growing up in this business I guess. Don’t let it intimidate you. Once you get to know him, he’s actually a pretty decent guy, it just takes time. She shrugs as if she is deep in thought before adding, Oh and Madeline Rose, well she’s a whole other story! Olivia rolls her eyes.

    Madeline has been cast as one of the lead supporting characters in the movie. She is a huge young Hollywood star and from what Olivia has told me, she personifies all those attributes that make her a starlet – she is conceited, demanding, and in short - a bitch. She already has two highly popular movies under her belt.

    Thanks for the warning Liv, but I’ll be fine. I can take care of myself you know. She laughs as I follow her out the door.

    You’ll always be my little sister Ava and I feel like I need to look out for you.

    I’m here to look out for you in case you’ve forgotten. That’s my job now.

    Liv laughs again as I trail behind her.

    I can see Joshua ahead talking animatedly. I assume that this is my new office. Olivia enters the room and I follow close behind.

    As I make my way through the door I smile at Joshua and then my gaze turns and locks on to a pair of deep sapphire-blue eyes.

    They are staring right at me, like they could burn a hole to my soul.

    They’re the deepest blue eyes I’ve ever seen, framed by long, thick, dark lashes. The type that any woman would pay good money for.

    When I manage to tear my eyes away from the gaze, I notice the thick, sandy-brown hair that is tousled in such a way that you know it has been done effortlessly, but it looks like it has been styled for a magazine shoot.

    Moving down, I take in the sharp angled jaw and the flawless crooked smile, and I know I’m staring at the face of Ethan Drake.

    He is even more breathtaking in real life than he is in magazines.

    If that’s even possible.

    I ignore my sweaty palms and the increase in the rhythm of my heart.

    Thump, thump, thump…..

    Ethan begins to rise off the chair he is casually sitting in and moves towards me. My heart literally skips a few beats before my breathing starts to falter. He’s wearing tight black jeans that fit in all the right places, and a long sleeved grey t-shirt layered with a black one over the top. He has black converse on his feet and a black leather cuff on his right wrist. He oozes sex appeal and could easily have been on the set of a catalogue shoot, ready to grace the pages with his beauty.

    He is utterly gorgeous.

    And utterly dangerous!

    I feel like a deer caught in the headlights.

    The closer he comes towards me, the faster my heart thumps against my ribs. I begin chanting to myself in my head, calm down Ava, breathe, calm down Ava, breathe…..

    This is OMG moment number 2.

    The Hollywood sign has nothing on this.

    N.O.T.H.I.N.G!

    He stops in front of me and cocks his striking head to the side. You must be Olivia’s sister, she told me you were coming, but she failed to mention how beautiful you are. I’m Ethan Drake.

    His voice is deep and dreamy, surrounding my senses like melted chocolate.

    Yes, melted chocolate!

    Gooey.

    Sweet.

    Sugary.

    Heaven!

    When those words leave his mouth, I can understand why women fall at his feet. He holds his hand out to shake mine, but as our hands make contact, instead of shaking mine, he pulls me towards him and places a kiss on the back of it. When his lips touch my hand, I feel the electricity flow through me in a flash from the flesh on my hand to the very tip of my toes…

    Oh my, he is good.

    His inhumanely beautiful blue eyes stare in to mine, and for a moment I lose my ability to speak. He gives me a small crooked smile and I can tell he knows he is getting to me. This must happen around him a lot.

    Once I find my tongue I say, Nice to meet you Ethan, I’m Ava.

    I’m proud of myself for keeping my voice even and maintaining eye contact while he is still holding my hand and continuing to stare in to my eyes. All I want to do is swoon at his feet. I remove my hand from his and take a step backwards to try and maintain some distance to gain back my composure.

    He is too hot for his own good.

    I need to clear my head. I have to work with these people and I’m not about to embarrass myself in front of any of them on our first meeting.

    Ethan looks past me towards my sister and says, Hey Liv, ready to run some lines?

    Yep, she answers as they move to leave the room. My eyes can’t help but follow them out the door, and as they do, Ethan looks back at me and gives me a wink before he disappears from view.

    Olivia calls out to me, I’ll be back soon Sis. Once we finish rehearsing you and I can head out and I’ll get you settled at the apartment.

    I reply with a quick, Okay Liv, and they are gone.

    I turn towards Joshua who is smiling his toothy grin, with a questioning look in his eyes.

    What? I ask with a shrug.

    Did the magic work on you? he says.

    What magic are you talking about Joshua?

    I know exactly what magic he is talking about!

    "C’mon Ava, the Ethan Drake magic…. ‘She never told me how beautiful you are’, that magic." Joshua smiles.

    Oh that, I try to say casually as if it hasn’t affected me at all. I’m sure he says that to all the girls he meets. I can feel my face flushing and duck my head so that Joshua can’t see my reaction.

    He laughs and shakes his head. Come on; let me show you to your desk. You can sit right here by me. I’ve cleared this area for you and this lap top has been set up, ready to go. You even have an email address ready and waiting. The Studio is good at keeping their talent happy, and as soon as Olivia decided that she wanted you as her PA, the Studio made sure everything was arranged for you. There is also an ipad and iphone here for you.

    Josh continues, The talent like us to be contactable at all times. Believe me; Ethan calls me at all hours of the day and night. He rolls his eyes but I can tell that he loves his job. He is very passionate about it when he talks.

    Josh begins to fill me in on the movie. Forever is mine is a bestselling book, in the genre of Young Adult Romance. There are three books in all, and the roles in the first movie were coveted by all the top American actors. The Producers of the trilogy wanted relative unknowns to take on the two main leads. The anticipation surrounding this movie is enormous.

    After an hour of talking, Joshua turns to me changing the subject. So are you a tea or coffee girl?

    I’m a tea drinker, you?

    I love coffee all the way, he states with a little nod. He really is a cutie. I think I’m going to like working alongside him.

    Well seeing as you’ve had a long flight and I’m sure you’re exhausted, let’s head to the Studio café and I’ll buy you a cup of tea.

    That sounds like heaven. I grab my purse and rise out of my seat.

    We head to an area that opens out in to a large café, with both indoor and outdoor seating. It has a large bar for making sandwiches and a big display cabinet full of delicious looking hot food. The smell in here is divine. My stomach begins to growl and I realise that I am still quite hungry, despite the sandwich Liv and I just shared. It is probably meal time back in Australia and my body clock is still set to that schedule.

    Hey Josh, a petite blonde girl calls out from behind the counter. Her voice is high and sounds almost like she’s singing. From the way she is looking at Joshua I can see that she is interested in him. Her smile is huge and infectious and she is batting her eyelashes without realising it.

    Hey Chelsea. This is Ava. She’s Olivia’s sister and her new PA. Josh gives her a crooked smile and puffs out his chest.

    Chelsea is very pretty. She has long, perfectly straight blonde hair, pulled back in to a high ponytail. I would love to have hair that straight. My hair is wavy – not straight and not curly, just in between. She has green eyes and a cute little button nose. She comes out from behind the counter to shake my hand and bounces as she walks. She gives me a wide kind smile. It’s nice to meet you Ava, welcome to the family here. Let me know how you like your coffee, I’ll be the one making it for you each day.

    I’m actually a tea drinker, but thanks anyway. I state kindly.

    Well we stock every type of tea here. Ethan Drake is a tea drinker too, so he made sure every variety would be at his beck and call. Which is your poison Ava?

    Um, I like green tea actually. But don’t worry….

    Chelsea cuts me off and says, Oh we have every type of green tea, green tea with mint, green tea with jasmine, green tea with…

    I stop her before she recites the entire tea menu. Green tea with mint would be great. Thanks Chelsea. I think we are going to get along really well too. She seems very sweet. I love her energy.

    She smiles widely. Go sit, I’ll bring them over. Usual for you Josh? Her eye lashes are batting again. I wonder if she realises that she is doing that.

    Yes, thanks.

    Joshua gestures for me to go ahead and we make our way to the tables outside. The weather is stunning and the air is warm and humid. The tables are covered in large white market umbrellas that shade them perfectly. I pull my large black sunglasses from my bag and place them over my tired eyes. Joshua gives me a full megawatt smile and cocks his head to the side as he folds his hands on the table between us.

    So tell me Ava, what do you think of our town so far?

    I love it, I can’t believe that I’m here really. Australia is so far away from the States, and everything we associate with it is what we see on the TV. To actually be here and see those things in person is incredible. I’m a bit awe-struck. I admit.

    Well if you need a personal tour guide, I’m happy to oblige. I’m born and bred here in LA, so I know my way around things.

    I appreciate that. I’m sure that Olivia will be much too busy to indulge my desire for sightseeing, so I may take you up on that. I really want to get on to that little train car and do a tour of the Studios here.

    Joshua laughs. I’m sure we can arrange that.

    Chelsea arrives with Joshua’s latte and my green tea and sits down with us in the sunshine. She stabs a straw in to a large milk shake and wraps her perfect lips around it to take a sip.

    Swallowing her drink, she says, So Josh, have you told Ava about the party tomorrow night? You need to be there, it’ll be a great chance for you to meet everyone.

    Joshua nods enthusiastically. Yes, you must come. Everyone is going to be there.

    Well thanks for the invite, I’ll talk to my sister and see if she has anything else lined up and get back to you.

    I don’t want to step on Olivia’s toes. She may have organised a few things for us to do over the next few days.

    Joshua and Chelsea exchange a knowing glance between them and Joshua says, Your sister will be there for sure. Hasn’t she told you who she’s dating?

    I shake my head, with an exasperated smile. No she hasn’t!

    Well she’s been seeing the Producer on the film. His name is Ryan and he is dreamy, Chelsea states with a flutter of her long dark lashes.

    Joshua just rolls his eyes at that.

    I think these two are definitely in to one another.

    They’ve been pretty hot and heavy for a few months. Ryan is throwing this party, so Olivia will definitely be there.

    I make a mental note to ask Olivia all about the dreamy Ryan that she has been seeing, and make it my mission to find out why she has been keeping it from everyone at home.

    Well that sounds great. I would love to get to know everyone and what better way than a party. I hope my jet lag doesn’t hold me back too much. I can feel the weariness settling over me even as we sit here.

    You’ll be fine, says Josh. We’ll make sure we line up some shots for you; that’s sure to keep you going. Ryan’s parties are always over the top, what better way for you to be introduced in to the Hollywood way of doing things than a night out at a famous Producer’s house in the Hollywood Hills.

    I smile and lean back to take a deep breath. I squint in to the bright sunshine as I feel a sense of contentment wash over me. Only a few hours here in LA and already I have been invited to my first party.

    I think I’m going to like it here.

    My blessed life…not

    I really want to make a good impression tomorrow, so I thought that asking Liv to run lines with me would help. Honestly, I don’t think I need it, I have these lines memorised and locked down, but the success of this depends on the chemistry between the two of us on screen and I can’t take any chances. I’m so sick of being seen as only Elizabeth Drake’s son, the celebrity, the playboy, the clown… I want to make an impression that is good enough to solidify my career as an actor, and to help open doors.

    I cannot fuck this up.

    Failure is not an option.

    I yawn a couple of times while I wait for Liv to get off the damn phone. Geez, that girl can talk!

    I’ve had a few late nights this past week. Too many women and not enough rest, life could be worse I guess, but I really need to learn to say ‘No’.

    I watch Olivia as she talks; her plump lips moving quickly in to the speaker of the phone. She really is fucking gorgeous, but off limits now that she is dating Ryan, and truthfully, I would not want to do anything with her that could jeopardise the film. We have a long road ahead with filming, promotions, and then the possibility of another two sequel films if this one is a success. I definitely do not want to mess with that.

    Her sister on the other hand…..

    Olivia breaks my thoughts. Sorry about that Ethan, they’re trying to schedule time for me with the stunt double. My diary is crazy right now. She takes a deep shuddering breath.

    Well now that your sister is here, you have someone to manage all of that for you.

    Thank Goodness.

    So what’s her story?

    I’m curious. I like to know the people who are working around me. Trust is not my strong point, so I don’t let my guard down easily with anyone new. Not to mention the fact that she’s hot, with that long, thick, wavy hair and those big chocolate-brown eyes that looked right through me. It was like she could read my inner thoughts. It unnerved me. No one has done that to me before.

    Ever.

    Most importantly, I didn’t miss the tight little body underneath that shirt she had on too.

    What I could do to that…

    Well, she just finished University and felt like she needed a break to decide what’s next. She’s also had a difficult break up in the last couple of months. I really wanted her with me and after much coaxing she decided to come out here. Ava prefers the comforts of home and people she knows around her so this is a very big move for her. We’ve always been really close so it’s hard to be away from each other for long periods of time. I’m so pleased she’s here.

    You’re lucky to have that bond with her Liv; it would be nice to have that level of trust with someone else.

    I can trust her with my life. That’s why I wanted her above anyone else as my PA.

    I would give anything to have someone in my life that I can trust like that. The only person that comes close is Grace, my Nanny, the woman who raised me. I don’t have that level of trust with many of my friends apart from my best friend Grayson and my PA, Joshua; and I sure as hell don’t have that level of trust with my mother.

    In this town you learn quickly that most people are after something. Many who have befriended me over the years have only done so because of who my mother is, and for the doors that the friendship could open.

    Dickheads!

    I turn back to Olivia. Shall we get back to these lines? I have to be out of here in an hour to meet Grayson downtown.

    Sure, she says opening her script. Let’s do it.

    As I pull my sleek silver Porsche up to the valet at Chateau Marmont, I already see the eyes of dozens of women swing my way. They all spot the car before I even emerge, and that is enough for them to be interested in me – is that shallow or what?

    Now I’m not complaining, because that shallow way of thinking has gotten me laid more times that I can fucking count; but sometimes I wish that people would like me for who I am and not what I have or who gave birth to me.

    I spot Grayson sitting in a low leather arm chair sipping a beer. I motion to the waitress that I’ll have the same and take a seat opposite him. Grayson has been my best friend for eight years. We met when we were fifteen at a summer camp.

    My mother always sent me away, whether it was to boarding school, or summer camp. I loved camp because I could be a normal kid. No one knew who I was, so I could act my age and just have fun.

    Grayson and I shared a bunk bed and have been best friends ever since. He’s also born and bred in this crazy town, so we‘ve been able to maintain our easy-going friendship over the years. Aside from Nanny, he’s the only other person I completely trust. He’s like the brother I never had.

    I sit and cross my foot over my leg. Hey Gray, what’s up?

    Hey man, lots and nothing. You? he says smiling.

    Grayson always answers that question in the same way - Lots and Nothing. It doesn’t give me a lot to work with really.

    I chuckle. How’s the life of a rock star treating you?

    He takes a swig of his beer. It’s hard work man, but someone has to do it!

    He gives me a full megawatt smile, the type that makes women swoon at his feet.

    Grayson is the lead singer of Awesome Rebel. He is also the best guitarist I’ve ever heard, and that’s not me being biased, he’s fucking brilliant on the strings. Mind you, he also plays piano and is pretty good on a drum kit. He works really hard at promoting the band and setting up gigs around LA. They’ve made a really good name for themselves around the clubs and I know that it won’t be long until they’re signed and hit it big.

    Grayson has the looks, body and the charisma to attract the ladies, but the band still has its fair share of male fans, because they are so damn good.

    Are you guys playing the party at Ryan’s tomorrow night? I ask as the waitress delivers my beer. She leans over to place a coaster on to the table in front of me, giving me a clear view of the cleavage beneath the white shirt she’s wearing like a second skin. I smile at her as I lean forward to pick up the beer bottle. She winks and licks her lips before turning back where she came from.

    Grayson smiles. He didn’t miss that little show.

    We sure are. Looking forward to it too. I’m hoping that some of those Hollywood heavy-hitters may sit up and finally take notice.

    It should be a good night and lots of hot ass too. I’m in need of some of that.

    "Please man, you are never in need of that, you have them practically throwing themselves at you from all angles all the time. They all want a piece of the great Ethan Drake."

    We both laugh and take a swig of our beers.

    So how’s the shoot going? Have you hit on that gorgeous Aussie yet?

    Grayson has a major infatuation with Olivia.

    They met when we first started the table reads for the movie. We all went out after the first day for a drink and I introduced them. Grayson has not been able to stop asking about her since. If Olivia was not with Ryan I would try and hook them up, but unfortunately for Gray, it looks like it’s too late. I think Olivia is really in to Ryan and I know Ryan is in to her. Gray and Liv would make a very attractive couple, but at this point in time there is no chance there.

    Man, you know I won’t go there. We have to work together for a long time yet and I am not messing with that.

    Well in that case, I will hang in the wings, wait ‘til she kicks Ryan to the curb and swoop.

    Man, you’re such a romantic! That must work in your favour! The women must be lining up! I scoff.

    Fuck off! he says with a laugh, You know I don’t have any issues in that department.

    I met her sister this morning, I say; not sure why I am bringing her up.

    Grayson’s eyes light up instantly. What! Another hot Aussie – maybe I can tap that?

    For some reason hearing him say that gets my back up. The hairs on my arms begin to stand on end. No man, she seems like the sweet and innocent type, not your speed at all. Besides, she’s starting work as Olivia’s PA, so best not to tap something that will be around permanently - if you get my drift.

    Yeah, maybe you’re right. Well let’s see how the party goes, I’m sure there will be plenty of talent to check out.

    After two hours and three beers, Grayson and I call it a day and go our separate ways. I’m in need of a good workout, but can’t be bothered to stop at the gym today, so I head home. As I pull in to the palatial gates of the home that I have lived in all my life, I decide that a swim will suffice. My mother is nowhere to be found when I enter the house - Thank God! - so I head straight to my wing of the house to change in to my board shorts ready for a swim.

    Yes, you heard right - my wing! It’s a fuckin’ big house.

    The pool is located in the centre of it. We have both an indoor and outdoor pool. Today is warm, but not warm enough for me to brave the outdoor pool, so I settle for the indoor heated one. After fifty fast laps I’m well and truly done, and ready to dry off.

    My mobile phone distracts me as I’m towelling off, and as I reach to answer it I see that Nanny Grace is calling me. She has been my nanny from the day I was born. She worked with us and lived in our home until I turned eighteen, doing everything for me. Nanny was my ‘mom’ for all intents and purposes. She packed my school lunches, read me bedtime stories, held me when I had a bad dream, and she’s my world, still to this very day.

    Over the past few years she’s become quite frail and unwell and has recently moved in to a nursing home. I can’t stand the fact that she is there. I begged my mother to let her stay with us at the house and to hire carers and helpers for her, but my mother insists that she is better off in the nursing home. I hate visiting her there and try to take her out for outings as much as I can, but with the film I don’t have much time.

    I answer the phone before I miss the call. Hey Nanny Grace, how are you?

    Hi Ethan darling, I’m not too bad. Feeling better this week than last. I’m missing you though. How is filming going? she asks sweetly. She is always interested in everything I do, no matter how small.

    It’s going really well. Lots to get through and its keeping me really busy, but it’s exciting. I’m really enjoying the process.

    I’m so pleased to hear that sweetie. When will I get to see you next? she asks.

    I’m not sure, but I’ll get there to see you as soon as I’m able to get a break in the schedule. Are they treating you okay?

    Yes of course they are. The food leaves a lot to be desired, but the people are nice and my room is comfortable, so I have no complaints. I’ve made lots of friends.

    I hate the fact that she never complains, and it makes me feel guilty to know that she would be much more comfortable in our home than where she is right now. My mother has always been jealous of the relationship I have with Nanny, so I expect that is what stopped her from letting her stay with us.

    Make sure you get a gorgeous dress ready Nanny. You’ll be escorting me to the film premiere.

    I wouldn’t miss it for the world Ethan darling. Oh, I must go, they’re calling everyone for bingo.

    Okay Nanny, enjoy that, I’ll talk to you soon.

    Love you Ethan, Bye.

    You too Nanny, I state as she ends the call.

    As I place my phone back down on the lounge chair next to the pool, I think of how wonderful Nanny has been to me and how without her, I would not have had any parental influences in my life. She is the only person that has ever loved me unconditionally.

    God knows that my mother has no parental bones in her body.

    I think that I was part of a public image for her. The hype that surrounded my birth and the photo shoots that followed for years to come were so staged and managed. I’m sure my mother had the best publicists in the world working for her. Every event in my life was displayed in front of the camera - birthdays, graduations, any note-worthy milestones - the media was privy to all of them. Of course my mother would be there for every photo shoot, playing the perfect loving, and doting parent. In real life, I never remember her dressing or bathing me, I never remember her reading to me or playing with me, I barely remember her talking to me when I was younger.

    Now that I’m 23 years old, we have a distant but friendly relationship. We talk to each other pleasantly, we spend time together when we have to, but otherwise, we are both content to live our own lives under the same massive roof. My mother lives for the hype and publicity; I can take it or leave it.

    As for my father, well I don’t even know who he is. My mother claims that she doesn’t know and his name is not on my birth certificate. Sometimes I think about finding him, but really why would I? If he wanted to know me, he could have contacted me. Assuming he knows of my existence.

    I guess that I’ve turned off my emotional radar. I don’t let feelings cloud anything that I do. Everyone who I should have been able to count on in my life has let me down – my mother, my father. I’m not complaining, this type of lifestyle works for me and works for anyone who is in this business. I concentrate all my emotion in to my acting and leave it out of my real life.

    I have everything that I could ever want - amazing cars, a huge Hollywood mansion in a gated community, all the autonomy I want, staff at my beck and call….My life is fucking fantastic! The only thing I hate is the loneliness. This house is huge when you’re here on your own, and ninety percent of the time, I am. I need to keep things that way though. I don’t let people get close, so that I don’t get let down. I’m quite content with playing the field and keeping women at arm’s length. That way I can have my pick.

    I have a ton of friends; mind you many of them are fellow Hollywood celebrities and the children of Hollywood stars, so whether I can count them as true friends remains to be seen. You

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