Chase's POV

We were just about to head towards our gate for the jet to take off. But, a surprising development has happened. I saw Cris and my prize.

"Well, it looks like we picked the right time to travel back to California. Mike, I want you to follow them and see where they live. Because I see another sexy piece of chocolate, I want to have too."

"Where does Cris find these women? She is just as sexy as my prize. It looks like she is taken, but that can be fixed easily. What does she look like naked?"

The mental images had me wanting more. "She will be prize #2. I think I will stay another week or two."

We made it back to the hotel we were staying at. Mike hasn't checked in yet. I walked over to the receptionist's desk.

"Hi, Mr. Dalton. Back again?"

They don't need to know why I am back. "Yes, I am. The penthouse suite if it is still available. Also, two additional rooms for my associates."

She checked her computer. While checking the computer, I couldn't help but check her out. She's definitely pretty, but not like the two that I want.

"Yes, Mr. Dalton, it is available. How long should I book your stay for?"

"Two weeks. And, here is my card."

I gave her the card. She then gave me my card back, as well as the room keys for the suite and other rooms. I gave both room keys to Seth so he could give the other one to Mike. After that, I made my way toward my room. I was getting antsy because Mike still did not call back.

I started wondering, "Did he lose them, or did he find them?"

As I was sitting in my room, I turned on the television.

****************************

"In entertainment news, Supermodel Marco Fiore was seen on the beaches of Milan shooting ads for Karma Sports' new swimwear line.

But, the woman shooting with him was not Supermodel Mikayla Shay. She was originally scheduled for the shoot but backed out at the last minute for reasons unknown.

We received word that the young woman in the shoot was Layla Jordan. And we hear congratulations are in order.

Her boyfriend proposed to her during the photo shoot, as seen in the pictures on the monitor. Also, we hear that she is not a model, but according to Karma Sports, she did an excellent job. Way to pull through in a pinch, Layla. Back to you, Lou."

*******************************

"So, that is her name? A beautiful name for a sexy woman."

Mike finally called me back.

"Sir, sorry for the delay. I know where they live, but I couldn't see the house number. They live on the waterfront in Miami."

"Thanks for the info. I'm sure Cris made the address private. So, just send me the street address in a text. Also, I need you to find me info on Layla Jordan. But that can wait until the morning. I got you a room, as well as one for Seth. Knock on his room door, and he will have your key. It is room 2560."

"Thanks, boss."

I took a picture of the TV screen. My suspicions were correct. Dang, this woman is altogether. Her fiancé is one lucky man - for now. Too bad he is about to be unlucky.

"I have to start working on a plan to take both Cris' wife and Layla away from them."

******************

Kam's POV

I have a surprise for Layla later today. So, I gathered everyone together before she came to the kitchen.

"I thought of a way to cheer Layla up. I am really good friends with Cam and Cocoa."

"Are they from that show, The Many Trials of Cocoa? Layla watches that all the time and gushes over Valentino and Dominic."

"It's not the cast from the show. Cris and I met the real-life Toscano and Calabro families in Milan during a gala. They said they were coming by to see Layla and Braelyn. Dominic and my second dad are also coming, Daddy Val. So, until then, don't anyone say anything, or I will hurt you, got it?"

They all nodded in agreement. After that, we heard Layla and Braelyn coming toward us.

"Layla babe, how are you doing?"

"A little better, but still scared."

"I have a surprise for you, but that will not be until later. How about for now we go by the pool? Braelyn, honey, you can wear one of Dia's bathing suits."

"Ryan and Austin, Cris and Marco may have swim trunks for you."

"I have a couple of new pairs for you guys," Marco said to them. So, everyone went to change and then met back up outside.

******

After everyone had changed, we went outside to the pool. Layla, Noeli, and I sat in the lounge chairs. Braelyn, Día, and Rocco were in the pool with the guys.

"I have the same truck as you, Kam. And I love it. We are twins. Someone burned my Mercedes I had. And they did it right in front of my house."

"Seriously, Layla? Did they find out who did it?"

"No, nothing yet. But Ryan thinks it was his ex. She is constantly stalking him."

"Unbelievable. Cris has two crazy exes. One of them seemed to disappear. But the other one is still around. Seeing her led to us arguing. She said some pretty, nasty things."

Noeli added, "Before Marco and I started dating, he said he didn't really want a relationship with anyone unless it was the one he chose to marry. But, we have had incidents with crazy fans."

"We all have good men for us."

Suddenly, we saw three figures blocking us from the sun. They had devious smirks on their faces.

"Um, Cris, Ryan, and Marco, why are you blocking our sun?"

"Um, Kam, I have a feeling we are about to be taken in the water."

Noeli and Layla tried to run. Marco and Ryan were not having it. There was no way I could run, so I threw my hands and surrendered to Cris, who carried me into the pool.

"So Kam, what is this surprise?"

"I'm not telling. And, I told the guys if they said anything, I would hurt them."

"Look, mommy."

Braelyn and the kids were now out of the pool and driving around in Día and Rocco's cars. Layla said, "They are so cute. Maybe I should get Braelyn one."

"If you don't mind, I'll buy it for her," Marco asked Layla.

"That is really sweet of you. Thank you."

"You're welcome. I'll ship it back to New York for you. Oh, Layla, the Karma Sports company was very impressed with the photo shoot. They said you did an excellent job. They would like to contact you for future shoots."

"See, babe, I told you that you shouldn't be nervous."

"I told you, girly. You have the figure to be a model, Layla."

"I even got a few calls already from several companies about doing photoshoots with the both of us. Or you and Ryan. Also, Karma Sports would like to use the pictures for their big swimsuit issue of their sports magazine. They liked the pose you did with Ryan at the end."

"That was a cute pose, Layla. I loved it."

"I told them they would have to talk with you first about anything. They also wanted your permission to put the pictures on billboards and in magazines. They should be going up this week once you give the okay."

Ryan tells her, "It is okay with me, Layla. I don't mind. Let's show the world who you are. And, yes, we are definitely getting you a bodyguard. You will need an agent too."

Layla thought about it for a minute. Then answered Marco, "I'll do it."

"You will definitely need a bodyguard, Layla. Some fans can get crazy."

"I was going to call Jake to come for a visit. While he is here, we can ask him to suggest someone for you, Layla. You guys are my family. And I have to protect my family," Cris said.

"Aww, thank you, Cris. Is there a place where we can go shopping for two weeks of clothes? And we will need to rent a truck for us too."

"We can take you all tomorrow. And, rent you a truck for your stay. What would you like?"

"I recently purchased an Escalade, just like Kam's. I like how it drives, so if possible, that is what I would like. And it will be big enough for the four of us."

"Layla, I had a step ladder added to mine because of me being short. And I really need it now, being pregnant."

"I apologize for sounding like a broken record but thank you all so much for your love and support. I will do my best to try not to dwell on what happened in Milan. I have my baby girl, wedding, family, friends, and business to focus on."

A few hours later.

"Hey Ryan, can you keep Layla out back in the yard? Her surprise guests have arrived."

"Of course." Ryan walked to the patio in the backyard, and I went to the front door.

"Hey everyone, come on in. My best friend is in the back with her fiancé. She is going to be totally surprised to see you all."

So, we walked to the patio door. I asked them to stay back for a minute.

"Hey Layla, remember that surprise I told you about?"

"Yes, you did."

"Well, close your eyes for a minute."

She did, and I waved my hands for them to come over. "Okay, girly, open your eyes."

She was so surprised when she saw who it was that she screamed. Braelyn got out of Dia's truck and ran to Layla. 

"Mommy, are you okay?"

"Braelyn, remember that show we always watch?"

"Yes, mommy."

"They are here, except your, not the actors. Sorry, not sorry, but you guys are more attractive than the television actors. Sorry everyone, for screaming, but you guys are my favorites. It is so nice to meet you."

They were all standing there - Cam, Cocoa, Dominic, Mr. Toscano, Mrs. Alyshea, and the cutest kids ever.

"This is my daughter, Braelyn. Say hi, sweetie."

"Hi, I'm Braelyn."

Braelyn, Rocco, and Día then took off.

"This is like a dream come true of mine. Thank you all so much for coming."

I am so glad they could make it and cheer my sister up.

"Honey, it's okay. It is our pleasure to come. Kamea here said you were feeling down, so we are here to cheer you up. If you feel comfortable with us, Cocoa and I are here for you."

"Whose your favorite dad?" Dominic asked Layla while he had a big grin on his face.

"Dad, not again." Cam sighed. "He asked Kam that same question."

Layla answered, "No, it is fine. Both of you care about your families, which reminds me so much of my father. And both of you are very handsome with charming personalities. But my favorite is Dominic. He is just so darn funny, and I love blue eyes. I love the affection and happiness he displays with the family. Cam, you and your dad, are like twins."

Without going into detail, Layla told them what had happened.  "While on a business trip to Milan, someone assaulted me. At first, I did not want my fiancé to touch me, not even my dad. But, I have been making slow progress - I let him hold my hand last night and carry me in the pool today."

Daddy Val, Cam, and Daddy Dom were mad about what happened. "Did they capture the guy?"

"Thankfully, my fiancé busted into the trailer I was in and got to me just in time. I didn't see it, but Ryan beat the crap out of the guy, and he was hauled off to jail."

"How long are you going to be in Miami?"

"For two weeks. My friends ordered me because most of the time I don't take a vacation. I just take a few days off to spend time with my daughter."

"While you are here, we are going to plan a ladies night. What is your fiancé's name?"

"His name is Ryan. And he is the one playing with the kids. And, the one on the grill is Braelyn's father, Austin."

"Okay, fellas, listen up. Austin, Ryan, Cris, Marco, Cam, Dominic, and my handsome brunette, for the rest of the night and tomorrow, you all are on babysitting duty. Cocoa and I are taking the girls out for ladies' time. So, get your kisses in now because you will not see us until tomorrow evening."

Ryan came over, and Layla introduced him to everyone. He gave her a sweet kiss and winked. "Enjoy, my love."

Braelyn came over to hug and kiss Layla.

"Are you having fun, baby girl?"

"Yes, mommy!"

Ryan then turns to Braelyn, "Here comes the tickle monster."

Braelyn, Día, and Rocco then took off running and screaming. Ryan then took off with them.

"Layla, Kamea, and Noel pack an overnight bag. We are going to an exclusive spa and resort for some girl time, courtesy of a charming, handsome brunette. And Layla, consider yourself and Braelyn our adopted daughter and grandchild."

So, the three of us went to hug Daddy Val. "Thank you so much for this. It is really sweet of you to do this for us, and I appreciate it very much."

"You're welcome, ladies. Have a good time."

So, we went to pack.

After that, we said goodbye and left the house.

Chase's POV

Just as we were about to pull off, out of the house came the two women I wanted the most, as well as three others. But I also noticed Mr. Toscano walking with them. "Dang."

He kissed his wife, and then the ladies hopped in a Range Rover. "Mike, follow that Rover, but don't make it obvious."

We waited until Mr. Toscano went back inside. Then, we followed them to wherever they were going.

30 minutes later.

They pulled into the most exclusive spa and resort on the East Coast - The Palm Willow Resort and Spa. Trying to get a reservation here is tough. You have to book your stay here way in advance. Fortunately, I am one of the ones who have VIP access.

While in the car, I made a reservation on my phone, so as soon as I went to the receptionist's desk, I would just be given my room key.

As I walked inside, I saw them going to one of the VIP elevators. "Jackpot." And they are going to the same floor as me. I am one of the luckiest guys in the world.

The first thing I need to do, though, is shave my facial hair and change my hairstyle. And the spa has a mini-mall of high-end stores I can buy clothes from.

The resort is like a small city for the wealthy - restaurants, expensive stores, a spa, and entertainment such as clubs and movie theaters.

After getting my facial hair cut and a haircut, I did a little shopping. Then, I headed towards my room.

As I got off the elevator, down the hall, I saw her - Miranda. I quickly put on a pair of sunglasses, hoping she wouldn't recognize me when she walked past. Thank goodness she didn't, so I kept on to my room.

I saw all five ladies come out of their suite. They have a two-floor suite. They were all dressed in bikinis, except Cris's wife. Even Mr. Toscano's wife looks hot. I'm guessing one of them is her daughter because they look like twins.

After settling down in my room, I heard a knock on the door. It was Mike.

"Boss, I have the info you wanted on Layla Jordan." He handed me her profile.

***********************

Name - Layla Danielle Jordan

Age - 25 years old

DOB - September 14, 1992

Mother of one child - the name is private for security reasons

Address - Private

Resides in New York

Owner of Layla's Fashion House

Just signed a contract to add a location in Milan, Italy.

She was recently engaged to Ryan Meyers, a personal trainer.

**********

"Looks like it is time for Layla Jordan to be introduced to Chase Dalton."

**********

Miranda's POV

"Does Chase really think I am that stupid? I knew that is him. What an idiot. I thought he was smarter than that."

While walking to my favorite restaurant at the resort, I saw Cris's wife. "Oh, this is going to be good."

Kam's POV

We went to rest by the resort pool. As I was about to go to the pool, I heard Layla scream, "Kam, look out!" She pulled me close to her.

When I turned around, I knew exactly who it was. "Layla, that is Cris' ex from college."

Layla put her hair in a ponytail because she was about to kick Miranda's butt.

"Hey! What the heck is your problem?!!! My friend here is freaking pregnant! I saw you drop that drink on purpose! She could have fallen and hurt herself or her babies."

"I have no idea what you are talking about. That would have been my problem; how? I would appreciate it if you got out of my face!"

"I would appreciate it if you would apologize to my friend. I am two seconds from putting my fist in your face if you don't. We came here to have fun and a good time. And, back off, Kam's husband!"

Miranda tried to walk away, but Layla wasn't having it. "Aren't you forgetting something?"

"No, I am not. Now, get your hand off my arm."

"Layla honey, let it go."

"Listen, trick. If I ever see you trying to hurt Kam, I am going to be your worst nightmare." Layla dug her nails really hard into Miranda's arm. "Do not play with me." Then, she let Miranda's arm go.

"Kam, are you okay?"

"I'm fine, Layla. Thanks."

"You're welcome. I got your back, always. I'll be back, ladies. I want to get a drink."

Chase's POV

While on my way to the restaurant, I saw prize #2 sitting at the bar. And she was alone and on the phone.

"I am going to sit near her and pretend to listen to her conversation. Now is my chance to start trying to talk to her."

So, I ordered a drink and sat two seats down from her.

************

Layla - "Cris, that Miranda chick is here. I saw her purposely spill a drink near Kam. I pulled Kam to me so she would not fall. I almost punched that chick in the face. I am sick of jealous women. And Kam could have really hurt herself. Do you know what she said? She said if Kam had fallen, that would not have been her problem. Kam is my sis and best friend. I can't let anything happen to her."

Cris - "Thanks for calling, Layla. I don't want you getting in trouble. I'll handle her. And I know just the person to do it. Do you know what time you ladies are leaving tomorrow?"

Layla - "No, but I can check and text you back."

Cris - "Thanks. A text is fine. Enjoy the rest of your time. And don't worry."

Layla -"I can't help it. Kam deserves to be happy. When I look at how the two of you are with each other, that is what I want for myself and Ryan. Speaking of, can you say hi to Braelyn and Ryan for me?"

Cris - "Sure. Talk to you later."

*********************

She was talking to Cris. I need to have a chat with Miranda. If she harms Cris' wife, I have no problem disposing of her like I did Candi. Braelyn must be Layla's daughter.

Just as I was about to get up and talk to her, in came Cris' wife.

"Hey Layla, we are going to change and then go to one of the restaurants to get something to eat. I'm starving."

She got up, and they left the bar area.

"Oh, man. Look at the both of them standing there together. I can't wait to have both of them."

I couldn't help but take a look as they walked out. "Man, I need a shower."

While they went to change, I waited until they came back down.

"Whatever restaurant they go to is the one I am going to." I just sat at the bar.

30 minutes later.

"Goodness, it takes women that long to change clothes?"

Just as I said that, I saw them walk by. I gave the bartender a nice tip and followed them to whatever restaurant they chose.

"Goodness, look at the curves on her in that outfit!!! She could definitely be a model with that body."

I was so in a daze that I almost lost track of them. They entered The Palm Willow Resort Restaurant. I stayed back a little until they were seated. Then, I walked over to the hostess.

"Good evening, sir. Welcome to the Palm Willow. How many in your party?"

"Just myself."

"Follow me, please."

The hostess lead me to a booth with the perfect view of Cris' wife and Layla. After they had ordered their meal, I saw the waiter walk towards the kitchen to place their order. I grabbed his arm really quickly. "Once that group of ladies is ready to pay, give me the check." He shook his head yes and walked on.

"I want to talk to her so bad, even if she just says 'hi' or 'thank you.'"

I didn't really want to order anything. I just wanted to follow them. So, I just ordered a drink and a shrimp cocktail.

While sitting there, a thought popped into my mind, "Do I really want Cris' newborn?" No, I don't. That means I will have to wait for her. But, Layla, I can have her now. "Yeah, that is what I'll do."

About 2 hours later, they finally asked for the check. 

"Well, it is about time."

The waiter said, "The gentleman sitting in the booth over to the left paid for your meal."

"He did?"

"Yes, ma'am. Have a great evening, ladies."

As they were leaving the restaurant, I saw them walking my way. "I have to play dumb like I don't know who they are."

"Thank you kindly for paying for our meal," Alyshea Toscano said.

"You're welcome. It was the gentlemanly thing to do. And, excuse me, but aren't you the woman who posed for Karma Sports - Layla Jordan?"

"Yes, I am."

"Marry me now."

"Congratulations. And may I have your autograph?"

"Wow! Thank you! And what do you want me to sign?"

"A marriage certificate, baby." I didn't tell her that. So, I grabbed a napkin. She signed it and said, "Thank you so much!"

"No, thank you." She is sexy but also humble. After that, they left.

I was just about to get up when I heard Layla say, "I left my phone in the room. I am so texting Cris back. He wants to know what time we are leaving tomorrow."

"Around 5 pm."

"Okay. I will be right back."

"We will wait for you at the movie theater."

It looks like now is the perfect time to make my move on her. So, I followed her.

Kam's POV

Something about that guy seems off. "Noeli, did that guy seem familiar to you?"

"No, not really. Why do you say that?"

"I can't place it, but he looks very familiar. Like he asked Layla for her autograph on purpose. And, I think that is why he paid for our dinner so he could talk to her."

I wracked my brain the whole time we walked to the movie theater. Twenty minutes had gone by, and no Layla.

We waited another 20 minutes—still no Layla. Suddenly, I knew who it was.

"Oh no! Now I know who that was! He is here! I know those beady eyes anywhere!"

"Who is here, Kam?"

"Chase! And Layla is his target!!!!!!!"

********************

Thank you all for reading chapter 41.

The pictures and videos are courtesy of Pixabay, YouTube, PNG Tree, and Can Stock Photos.

And, thank you all for the votes and comments. 😘