Chapter 9: His Chef Tried To Kill Him?

After our shower, Mordecai yawned really loudly, which made me laugh, but also made me realize that he was tired. You can trust that he protested a million times over when I suggested that he get some rest, but he fell asleep while protesting anyway.

With him asleep, I decided to go and get my room prepared. To be honest, I was in love with it. I would definitely have attachment issues by the time I have to leave. I packed my stuff in the closet, not even occupying an eighth of it.

When I was done, I figured I could give myself a tour of the house. Mordecai told me that it was just the three of us in the house, with Geronimo being the other person. Apparently Nellie spent Sunday nights at her mom’s house, which I learnt is closer than I thought. I didn’t even know that Ms Tedder lived in an estate now.

I’d been kept in the dark for two years.

I learnt that this house actually has sixteen bedrooms, with eight of them being en-suite, twelve bathrooms, a games room, a cinema room, a mini library, an office, a gym, an indoor pool, a large dining room with a table big enough for twenty people, two lounges, a patio, an entertainment room outside, a pool half the size of ones that Olympic trainers use, a bonfire pit, a tennis court, ample space in the backyard, a pantry, a laundry room and two kitchens.

“Ooh, taste this,” a really tall, muscular and good looking guy came up to me with a spatula. I opened my mouth before I even knew what I was doing.

“Oh my God!” I moaned at the taste.

“It’s good right?” he smiled.

“It’s heaven! What is it?” I asked.

“Chocolate with a little added something,” he replied.

“You’re Geronimo right?” I asked.

“Pleasure to meet you...” he trailed off with a scowl.

“Beverly,” I supplied as I sat at the stool by the island.

“Oh! You’re Nellie’s best friend right?” he asked.

I nodded. “The very one.”

“Well, Nellie’s not here,” he commented as he turned back to the pot.

“They didn’t tell you, did they?” I sighed.

He turned back to me with a frown. “Tell me what?”

“I’m here to nurse Mordecai back to health,” I replied.

“That’s awesome, though I can’t imagine that he’s an easy patient to deal with,” he chuckled.

“He has his moments,” I admitted.

“That’s my best friend for you,” he chuckled.

“Best friend?” I asked in surprise.

“I’m guessing he didn’t tell you?” he smiled.

I shook my head. “Nope!”

“Kai and I grew up together, but we were interested in different arts. He was interested in acting, and I was interested in the art of food. We studied at different institutions and he went off to be a superstar actor, director and stuntman, while I went off to become a world renowned chef. He called me in about a year ago and told me that he wants me to be his personal chef because his last one tried to kill him. I was still on tour then, so I finished the tour and now here I am,” he explained.

“His chef tried to kill him?” I asked wide-eyed.

“Uh yeah! Kai kinda slept with the man’s wife, but he didn’t know who she was at the time. She came here, saw Kai and threw herself at him. I don’t know about the new Kai, but the old Kai screwed any woman that threw themselves at him,” he replied.

I was a little unsettled by that fact.

“What do you mean the new Kai?” I asked.

“He’s been different since the accident, even though he won’t tell me what’s really wrong with him. I know him like the back of my hand, and I know that he’s going through some stuff that he’s not really talking about. He’s also not as out there as he usually is. He’s just drawn back into this shell I can’t figure out,” he sighed.

“He’s very talkative with me,” I commented.

“He is?” he asked, visibly surprised. I nodded.

“Well, it would seem you’re the only one. He doesn’t talk to the rest of us. If anything, I think our presence annoys him,” he told me.

“I’m sure he doesn’t mean to,” I offered.

“I know he doesn’t, but shutting us out isn’t doing anyone a favour,” he pointed out.

“I can only try my best to get him out of his funk I guess,” I sighed.

“We would really appreciate that,” he smiled.

I sat with Geronimo while he made dinner. It was fascinating watching him as he told me about his adventures with Mordecai when they were kids. The man really worships his art. The stories he had to share had me in stitches at some of the things they got up to. I could see that Geronimo really appreciates his friendship with Mordecai and that he really just wants his best friend back.

When dinner had been served, it looked like it had come straight out of a restaurant kitchen. While it looked good, I understood why Mordecai seemed reluctant to eat like this every night, so I spoke to Geronimo about it. We agreed that he would try much simpler and wholesome meals. We worked out a completely new and healthier diet.

When I got to Mordecai’s room, he opened his eyes just as I walking in with the tray with his and my food. I set the tray on the side where he wasn’t sleeping as he sat up and adjusted himself. He rubbed his eyes and he looked so adorable doing so. The light in the room was very dim, so I got up and switched on the room light since the dim lighting was coming from the lamp.

“How long was I out for?” he asked.

“Three hours,” I replied. It was nine in the evening.

“Oh! Have you met Geronimo yet?” he smiled.

“Yeah! You didn’t mention that he’s your best friend,” I pointed out as I handed him his food.

He shrugged. “Because I knew he would.”

“Such pride you have in your friendship,” I commented as I rolled my eyes.

“It’s not that. It’s just that I see him as Geronimo my best friend, not Geronimo the world renowned chef, and telling everyone that he’s my best friend just sounds like me being a groupie. Like ‘hey, Geronimo Solomon is my best friend. Y’all can suck on that!’ It’s just stupid,” he replied.

“Your explanation is stupid,” I argued.

“Whatever! I see we’re stuck eating restaurant food again,” he sighed as he started eating.

“I spoke to him about that and he’s agreed to make changes to the food he makes,” I informed.

He rolled his eyes. “Oh sure! Now he listens.”

“You just don’t have the charm bud,” I teased.

“Because it was totally your charm that got him to change his mind,” he chuckled.

I pouted. “Hey! My charm is pretty amazing!”

“I know it is gorgeous,” he said as he winked, effectively making me blush.

“So, how are you finding your room?” he asked.

“I am absolutely crazy about it! If anything could convince me to stay here for the whole three months, it would be that room,” I smiled.

“Hmm, I might have to get working on that proposal to get you to stay. I’ll have to find a way around the room,” he said thoughtfully.

I shook my head. “Oh no, make no mistake! I’m not staying here.”

“But why not?” he groaned.

“I just can’t,” I sighed.

To be honest, I didn’t really know why I was so set on not living here for the three months of my service. I mean, it’s a wonderful change from my apartment and all, but it’s also dangerous waters. I could get easily attached to this place.

And to Mordecai.

Ok, so maybe I do know why I didn’t want to stay here.

“That’s not a valid answer Bev,” he said, deadpan.

“Yeah well it’s the best I’ve got,” I responded before taking the last bite of my meal. He was already done. He eats so fast.

“Come here,” he requested as he patted the spot beside him. I hesitantly joined him and he put his arm around me, making me cuddle into his side.

“What are you so afraid of? Why won’t you let anyone in?” he asked.

“I’ve been hurt badly before, and I never want to go through something like that again,” I said lowly. He was about to say something when my phone went off.

He raised an eyebrow when he saw my screen. “You named him Dr Oswald?”

“Well, yeah,” I answered.

“That is so dick Bev. He’s your boyfriend, not your shrink,” he chuckled.

“I feel like you’re judging me,” I mumbled.

“That’s probably because I’m doing exactly that. Let me answer it,” he said excitedly.

“Well now that you’re giving me that look, no,” I replied.

“Oh come on! Please,” he pleaded.

I shook my head. “You’re only going to piss him off.”

“Deservingly so,” he argued as the phone stopped ringing.

“Oh well,” I smirked, only to have it start again.

“Sucks for you,” he chuckled.

“Fine, but only if you put him on loudspeaker,” I warned.

“Whatever you want gorgeous,” he agreed as I gave him the phone. He clicked on the green button, and then put it on speaker.

“Bev?” Alex’s voice called.

“It’s not Bev,” Mordecai replied.

“What the fuck are you doing answering her phone? Where is she?” Alex barked.

“Do you want the truth or the lie?” Mordecai asked.

Where the hell is he going with this?

“I swear to God, if you did anything with her, I will kill you both!” Alex replied.

Well hello then!

Mordecai looked as shocked as I was, and I could see his thought process changing. He was going to be genuine with Alex, until he said that line. From the look on his face, I knew that Mordecai had officially changed his mind about being nice.

And I wasn’t sure how that would go down.

“You don’t trust her much,” he commented.

“I don’t trust either of you right now,” Alex replied.

Well ouch!

“Has she ever given you a reason not to trust her?” Mordecai asked.

“That’s none of your business!” Alex snapped.

“Does she at least know that you have zero trust in her?” Mordecai persisted.

“No she doesn’t, and you sure as hell won’t be the one to tell her,” Alex replied.

He doesn’t have to!

“Interesting! So, since you think she’s so guilty, how’s about she give you something to be really mad about huh?” Mordecai asked.

“What the f-” Alex started off, only to be cut off by Mordecai, who then proceeded to grab my face and give me the kiss of a lifetime.

I wasn’t expecting it, but apparently my body was waiting for it since it brought out the hallelujah jingles and fireworks. I honestly forgot about everything else, and Mordecai was my entire existence at that moment.

“Totally worth it,” he said breathlessly when we pulled apart.

I was too speechless from the kiss, and apparently Mordecai was ok with that since he didn’t say or do anything else after that. I just stayed cuddled into him, drowning in my thoughts while he ran his fingers up and down my arm.

I didn’t even feel myself drifting off to sleep.

I woke up at seven in the morning, and I was under the covers- Mordecai’s covers. I was fully dressed, and Mordecai was nowhere in sight, which had me panicking a little. I got up and checked whether he was in the bathroom or not, but when I got no response, I knew he wasn’t in the room.

I quickly rushed to my room to brush my teeth, before heading downstairs. I was relieved to hear Mordecai and Geronimo laughing in the kitchen. When I walked in, they both seemed very happy to see me, Mordecai especially.

“Good morning Beverly,” Geronimo greeted.

“Good morning gorgeous,” Mordecai smirked.

“Morning,” I murmured while my cheeks flamed.

“So, you can choose anything you want. I made eggs, bacon, hash browns, toast, fruit salad, waffles-”

“Waffles! Definitely waffles!” I blurted out, making them both laugh.

“Waffles it is! Anything you’d like to go with the waffles?” Geronimo asked.

I bit my lip. “I’ll have the fruit salad with whipped cream and strawberry sauce if you have any.”

“Uhm, I’ve got cherry sauce,” he said.

“Works too,” I accepted. I was handed a plate with my request, and my stomach agreed with me that it looked like heaven.

“I take it you love waffles?” Mordecai teased.

“Really? I thought I was subtle,” I giggled.

“You totally nailed it! I just took a wild guess,” he smirked.

“Whatever! Waffles are life,” I sighed before taking a bite.

Heaven!

“You’re preaching to the choir Bev. You’re probably the only person I know who likes waffles as much as Kai does,” Geronimo chuckled.

“Really?” I asked Mordecai.

He winked. “You said it yourself; waffles are life!”

“I smell regular food!” Nellie said as she walked into the kitchen.

“I’ve been convinced to switch up the menu,” Geronimo informed her, unaware of the awkwardness that had settled in the kitchen.

“Hey Bev! Can you help me back upstairs?” Mordecai asked me.

“Yeah,” I replied. I was just about done with my breakfast anyway.

Luckily for me, Nellie didn’t say anything as Mordecai and I walked out of the kitchen. Despite there only being a day’s difference, Mordecai was definitely healing and getting a whole lot stronger. It took us less effort and time to make it to his room.

“He called again, like ten times,” he informed me once we were sitting on the bed.

“Did you answer the phone?” I asked.

“No,” he replied.

“Ok,” I sighed.

“Bev, do y-”

“Please don’t! I don’t want to talk about anything,” I begged.

“Do you want to be alone?” he asked.

“Do you mind?” I counter asked.

“Not at all! You may be here to nurse me, but you’re entitled to your space gorgeous. I don’t want to suffocate you,” he smiled.

Argh! Mordecai is being too nice.

“Why are you being so nice?” I accidentally blurted.

He shrugged. “Because a beautiful woman like you deserves it.”

“I’m leaving now,” I said as I got up.

“Bev?” he stopped me.

I turned to look at him. “Hmm?”

“I trust you with my life,” he said.

He was so serious, and I could see the honesty and sincerity in his eyes, but I walked out without saying anything. I knew he was telling me the truth, and to be honest, it helped with my mood. The truth was that Alex’s words had hurt me deeper than I was showing, and it sucked that I couldn’t talk to my best friend about it since I was mad at her.

What sucked more was that instead of me feeling guilty, I was instead yearning to be closer to Mordecai. Ever since taking the chance to nurse him, I’ve realized that him being an asshole is probably a defence mechanism for whatever hurt he’s hiding, and I find myself asking whether I want to do more than just nurse him back to health.

I feel like I want to mend him physically and emotionally.

Before I knew it, I’d been in my room for four hours straight, just thinking. When I snapped out of things, I grabbed my phone and found that I had a whole lot of missed calls, voicemails and texts from Alex, except, I couldn’t bring myself to care about what he had to say.

I left the room and headed to Mordecai’s room. He wasn’t there, and neither was he downstairs with Geronimo. Speaking of Geronimo, he directed me towards the room that Mordecai was in, one that I didn’t know existed since it was a secret room. I mean, it even had the secret door in the wall thing going on.

“What is this place?” I asked as soon as I was in.

I didn’t get a response.

When I looked over at where Mordecai was, he was hunched over a desk with papers surrounding him. His tablet and phone were also there, and his hands were fisted. He was breathing heavily, and I knew he was pissed off.

I’d never seen him like this before.

“Kai,” I called him softly. When he turned to me, my heart dropped to my toes when I realized that he was close to tears.

“What’s wrong?” I panicked, rushing over to him. He didn’t say anything, but instead handed me his tablet. It was open on an article which I read to myself.

MAJOR TROUBLE FOR MAJOR STAR

Could Mordecai Hart’s career be in trouble? Is the star a confirmed addict?

It’s been almost two weeks since the world found out about Mordecai Hart’s role replacement in the major March franchise. There has been a lot of speculation about what the reasoning was for the replacement, and we’ve learnt that the star could actually be in a lot of trouble.

Two months ago, the world received news of the horrific accident that the star was in, except the public was deprived of the exact information regarding that accident. We can now report, thanks to a reliable source, that he was in fact, majorly at fault for the accident that claimed the lives of Ignatius James (26), and Dana James (23).

According to our source, at the time of the accident, the star was said to have high traces of heroine that could’ve been the reason for the heart attack he suffered from. Our source tells us that the star reportedly died for a few minutes before he was resuscitated. The same couldn’t be said for Ignatius James, who had initially survived the accident, but could not be saved from his lung operation.

Mordecai’s habits had been all over the news just days before, with more and more people pointing out that the star is perhaps going overboard with everything, and to now learn that something like this has happened, makes us wonder what this means for the star.

The last time he was publically seen was at his ex co-star Hunter Kist’s party, and we wonder what happened to him. What were his actual injuries? Is he still going to carry on his career? Will he be seeking any rehabilitation?

Stick with us as we look for answers for you.

Renee Jewels I frowned as I read the article over again. I remembered that segment I was watching on what I realized is the day the accident happened. When Alex had to leave, the first time we tried to have sex, he was responding to this accident.

Because I had actually seen Mordecai’s chart and medical results, I know for a fact that he didn’t have any drugs in his system when he was brought to the hospital. He suffered from a heart attack for completely different reasons, high blood pressure being one of them.

“This isn’t true,” I finally spoke.

“I know, but my fans believe it. Whoever this ‘source’ is, is clearly out to ruin my life,” he mumbled.

“It can’t be that bad,” I sighed.

“Yeah, well it is! My ‘friends’ have cut all ties with me because their management teams have told them that associating with me is bad news. Some people have even branded me a murderer, and you know what my manager tells me to do? Absolutely nothing!” he bellowed.

“Kai, I know you probably don’t want to hear this right now, but they were never your friends if they could leave you so easily,” I pointed out.

“You’re right! I don’t want to hear it,” he huffed.

“Do you want me to get you anything?” I asked.

“My space,” he replied.

“Ok,” I whispered as I got up.

I don’t know why, but I hugged him, with his head resting on my stomach. What shocked me even more was the fact that he hugged me right back, tightly, like he was afraid I would leave him too. I leaned down and kissed his forehead before letting go and letting him have his space.

“How is he?” Ms Tedder made me jump as I left the library.

“It’s bad. He just wants to be alone right now,” I sighed.

She scowled. “I don’t understand why Judith isn’t doing anything about this.”

“Ms Tedder, do you trust that woman?” I asked curiously.

“What do you mean?” she scowled.

“I mean do you trust her with your son’s career? Your son’s life?” I elaborated.

“I do, why?” she replied.

“I’m just curious,” I said before walking away. I hadn’t forgiven her yet.

Geronimo pouted as I walked into the kitchen. “How’s our baby?”

“It’s bad Ger. I don’t know how to fix this,” I sighed.

He frowned. “You care?”

“Of course I care,” I said as returned the scowl.

“No! I mean like you really care,” he pointed out.

I bit my lip. “I guess I do.”

“You’re good for him,” he smiled.

“It’s only been three days, and I’m not with him like that,” I argued.

“Why not?” he asked.

“I have a boyfriend,” I sighed.

He raised an eyebrow. “That sigh tells me you’d rather not have a boyfriend, or you’d rather someone else be your boyfriend – someone being Kai perhaps?”

“That obvious huh?” I said lowly as I looked down.

“Does he know?” he asked.

“Not even I know. I have such conflicting emotions when it comes to Kai. I’ve never felt like this before, and to add to that terrifying fact, these emotions all attacked me in the space of three days. To feel this way so quickly is just downright petrifying,” I admitted. It felt good to finally share with someone.

“I get it, I really do. What I will advise that you do, is not make hasty decisions. I know my best friend, and if he feels the same way that you do, then he might come onto you, whether or not your boyfriend is in the picture. Unfortunately, I’ve also known Kai long enough to know that things with him are always complicated. I don’t want you to get hurt if it turns out that this could possibly only be infatuation on his part. So, just take everything slowly and we’ll see with time if he’s serious about you,” he suggested.

“He’s made a couple of references to marrying me and me being his wife,” I commented. Geronimo looked completely knocked for six.

“Well, that changes things,” he scowled.

“How come?” I asked.

“He’s never said anything like that about any other woman. He’s always said that he’d never get married. I remember him telling Zeb and I that if he ever spoke about marrying a woman, then we should help him at all costs to keep her in his life because she would have to be one hell of a woman,” he explained.

I was stunned.

I had thought Mordecai was joking every time he made a reference like that, and to find out that there’s a chance he wasn’t was pretty scary to me. I mean, I don’t know how to feel about something like this.

“Just take it one day at a time. Does your boyfriend know where you are?” he asked.

“He’s probably figured it out by now. I’m avoiding him,” I mumbled.

“Why?” he asked.

I told him all about Saturday and the phone call. He listened intently, but Geronimo being Geronimo, was actually a little upset that we dodged his restaurant like food. When he was done with his rant, he suggested that I call Alex and sort things out.

The problem was that I didn’t know if I really wanted to.