UGLY (11 page)

Cassie tried to reason, “Isabella, that cop will be back any second. Just put the gun away. You can leave. We won’t say anything.”

“Do you think I’m stupid, Cassie? The minute I’m gone, you guys will rat me out.” Curling her lip, she growled in frustration, “You have no idea how long and hard Nadia and I have worked.” Her hand shook as she spat at Candice, “Before Rich fell for you and wrecked our plans. Nadia was supposed to lure him away, leaving you…”

Unaware of the armed person within the room, a nurse walked in and distracted her. As Isabella’s arm swung toward her, Cassie tackled her. At the same time, Rich threw himself over Candice. The gun fired, crumpling the nurse on the spot. Mass chaos erupted as the police swarmed the room.

When calm was restored, the police let everyone know that the nurse was okay. The bullet had hit her arm. Having caught up with Nadia, she’d told the police how Isabella had seduced her and set in motion a plan to infiltrate the Danton empire. Well aware of their worth, Rich was in shock over the lengths they’d gone to take out their presumed competition.

Greg appeared as doctors checked Cassie to ensure she wasn’t harmed when she tackled Isabella. Over the next few hours, more information came to light. Isabella tried to blame Nadia for the bee attack on Uncle Mike but, when they checked Isabella’s residence, her laptop produced a plethora of research regarding poisons and allergens.

Ben was cleared, having been an ignorant pawn in their arrangement. They released Candice after an overnight stay. Since Rich’s home was a complete loss, the twin’s parents secured a home near them and hired a nurse that was unknown to everyone.

The drama didn’t stop the wedding ceremony. Cassie texted photos of the dress to Candice who was thrilled, directing her to immediately purchase it. After minimal fittings, her uncle walked her down the flight of stairs and gave her over to her waiting groom.

The ceremony was small but Candice wouldn’t have it any other way.

In the aftermath of the excitement, Ben surprised everyone with a rare reflection on something other than himself, “Hey, Greg. The name Smooth Moves may have transformed over these last few days. Do you think customers will remember the juice or the women that tried to worm their way into our business?”

Their father barked a laugh, “I’ll get public relations to put a spin on it. Maybe they can wring more juiciness from the story.” Winking at Candice, he grinned at Ben, “In the meantime, you need to give that playboy persona a rest.”

Everyone watched with stunned fascination as Ben shrugged, “After watching some of Isabella and Nadia’s smooth moves, I can’t think of a better suggestion.”

Candice’s gaze flew to Rich, “I think your twin just got his world rocked.”

Grinning, Rich nodded, “It’s about time. Are you ready to create some smooth moves of our own?”

Thinking he meant their honeymoon, she grinned but gasped when he pulled her into his arms, “I was referring to our wedding dance, Candice.”

~~ The End ~~