Kristens prince, p.1
Kristen's Prince, page 1
Copyright © 2021 by Heidi Harris
Paperback: ISBN: 9798470924292
Hardcover: ISBN: 9798777923615
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law. For permission requests, contact Heidi Harris, heidiharriswrites@gmail.com.
The story, all names, characters, and incidents portrayed in this production are fictitious. No identification with actual persons (living or deceased), places, buildings, and products is intended or should be inferred.
Book Cover by Heidi Harris
Illustrations by Heidi Harris
Contents
Dedication
Scripture
Map of Angeline
Map of Dorin
Zack's Family Tree
Goldie Locke's Family Tree
1. 1
2. 2
3. 3
4. 4
5. 5
6. 6
7. 7
8. 8
9. 9
10. 10
11. 11
12. 12
13. 13
14. 14
15. 15
16. 16
17. 17
18. 18
19. 19
20. 20
21. 21
22. 22
23. 23
24. 24
25. 25
26. 26
27. 27
28. 28
29. 29
30. 30
31. 31
32. 32
33. 33
34. 34
35. 35
36. 36
37. 37
38. 38
39. 39
40. 40
41. 41
42. 42
6 Months Later...
43. 43
44. 44
11 Years Later...
45. 45
4 Years Later...
46. 46
47. 47
48. EPILOGUE
GWYN'S RETURN
49. 1
50. 2
Heidi Harris
Books by Heidi Harris: Storyteller
Dedication
IN LOVING MEMORY
of my Aunt Beanie.
August 1948- July 2021
Love your F.N.I.T.W.W.W.
(Favorite Niece in the Whole Wide World)
Scripture
“A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity.”
(Proverbs 17:17) NASB
I love the friendship between Zack and JT.
Count yourself blessed if you have a friend that is more like family than mere friendship.
They choose to be there for you and you choose to be there for them.
That is how you know how truly blessed you are.
1
“Hey, I'm Kristen. I'm Erica's cousin.” I smiled.
“Nice, but didn't you come here with Kade?” The guy leaned forward. “I'm Zack, by the way.”
“Nah, it's not like that.” I shook my head.
I thought I liked Kade when I was watching him play on the baseball team earlier today. He was definitely handsome, but there was something about Zack that I couldn't ignore. His blonde hair, and light scruff on his face was definitely working for him. This family had great genes all the way around.
Zack put his hands in his pocket and scanned around the area. His eyes landed back on me. He had nice eyes. Something was a little different about them. He moved too quickly to get a good look.
“So what's it like?” Zack took a step back.
“Erica's my cousin. She wanted to ride home with Em... Em... How do I say that name again? You would think I would remember how to say his name with how long they have had Ellie.” I frowned. “How long have they been married?”
Zack coughed.
“Are you okay?” I took a step forward in concern.
He took his fist and banged on his chest. The coughing stopped, and he nodded his head. He started breathing normally.
“Okay. Yeah. Me.” Zack's eyes shifted around. “Hey, why don't we get a drink?”
“Sure.” I walked with him to the drink table. “This was really nice of... well... whoever, to throw this party for Erica. I feel like I really should know their names. You know, since they are kind of related to Erica, even if it is by marriage.”
“Yeah... do you want to swim?” Zack interrupted my thoughts.
My eyes shifted to the ocean. “I didn't know we were going to swim... or...” I gestured toward my outfit.
“Not a problem... I'll get you something. Follow me.” Zack headed into the house. He rubbed his necklace and pointed beside the door. “One of these should fit.”
“Yeah, thanks!” I dug through the box. I found it a little unusual they were all in my size. “These are clean, right?”
“Yeah, they are.” Zack leaned back on the door frame.
I found a style that would flatter my figure. “Where can I change?”
“Yeah, I can show you.” Zack pushed himself from the door and led me down the hallway. “Right there.” He pointed.
“Thanks.” I walked into the bathroom and closed the door behind me.
Zack was really nice. He was pretty cute too. I slipped into the borrowed suit and put the clothes over my arm. I started to put my shoes back on, but decided that I'd have to take them right back off. Balancing the shoes in my arms, I made my way out of the bathroom. When I came out, Zack had taken off his shirt and was holding two towels.
I exhaled. Zack was too attractive for my own good. Now, to get him interested in me. Come on, Kristen, time to put on your game face. It's time to flirt like you have never flirted before. I could do this. I would do this. Zack was mine, he just didn't know it yet.
“What?” His eyes narrowed with curiosity.
“Nice abs.” I saw a smile growing on his lips as I breezed past him.
“Thanks.” He rushed to keep up with me.
I opened the door and turned around. “Race ya!” I took off running.
“Not fair!” Zack called after me. Then the door slammed closed.
Zack passed me and started running backwards. I couldn't help giggling. I let my clothes, and shoes fall to the sandy beach in a heap.
“I thought you were above cheating.” Zack's smile was cheeky.
I laughed. “A girl has to take her advantages when she can. Someone's legs are definitely longer.” I touched his chest and passed him as the water splashed around my legs.
“Advantage, huh?” Zack stood closer to me.
A cloud moved, and the sunlight landed on Zack's necklace. The design on the coin was very intricate. It was familiar, but I wasn't sure where I've seen it before.
“I like your necklace.” I pointed to it.
Zack glanced down. “Uh, yeah. Everyone in our family... It was a 17th birthday present.”
“Nice.” I liked the sound of his voice.
“When is your birthday?” He stepped a little closer.
“Next month... well, five weeks.” I waded out a little further.
Zack mirrored my steps. “And you'll be 17?”
I nodded my head. “How old are you?”
“18.” He grinned like he had a secret.
We swam in the water for a few more hours. When I headed back to shore, Zack followed me. He handed me a towel.
“Thanks.” I wrapped it around me and picked up my clothes.
Zack was drying off. “Anytime.”
I walked into the house and got myself changed. “Where should I put this?”
“Put it by the door. I'll take care of it.” Zack opened the door.
“Really?” I made a face. I wasn't sure I believed him.
Zack nodded.
I dropped them and walked through the open door back outside. I saw Zack touch his necklace. I wasn't sure if he had a nervous habit or what, but he seemed to do that a lot.
“Did you need a ride home?” Zack closed the door behind him.
“Nah, I drove.” I stared at him for a moment. “I kind of wish I hadn't.” I grinned.
“Me too.” Zack followed me toward my car.
My foot caught on a rock, and my shoe came off. I
I opened my car door. My eyes met his. I wasn't sure how to finish this night. I was surprised how much I liked him. He was obviously attractive. He had a nice laugh, and that smile was to die for.
“Goodnight.” I finally spoke.
“I probably shouldn't do this, but...” Zack leaned forward and brushed his lips on mine. “Goodnight Kristen.”
I grinned at Zack. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. I got in the car and started it. He waved at me as I left the driveway. I drove home in a love struck daze.
2
Ithought about Zack off and on for the next few weeks. I missed him. I only met him that one time. We had shared a kiss, but there was no reason to think about him this much. I thought he would disappear from my thoughts by now. I had been accused of being boy crazy on multiple occasions, but something about Zack was different.
I decided that Erica was overdue for a visit and if I just happened to run into Zack, it would be purely a coincidence. And if that coincidence didn't happen today, I would have to go back to Erica's house every day for the next week until it ha
ppened.
I made my way to my car. I wasn't sure where my cousin lived, but I knew it was close to the house we went to for her birthday party. It seemed odd to me that I wouldn't know where Erica lived. We had been almost inseparable for a long time. In fact, the last few weeks had been the longest I remember being without her. My favorite song came on the radio and I started singing to it at the top of my lungs.
I parked my car where I had the last time I was here. I scanned the area, hoping for a sign. There had to be a clue around here somewhere. I thought about texting my cousin, but part of me liked the adventure. It was like looking for a shell on the beach, given enough time a decent-looking guy was bound to show up... or Erica. Either way, it would be a win. I just hoped it was a win-win situation, and I found both of them, preferably not at the same time.
My eyes searched the beach. A familiar male figure was standing in the distance. He was really the one I wanted to see. I closed my car door and walked his way. I knew the moment he saw me. A big grin spread across his face. I waved.
Zack jogged my way. “Hey, what are you doing here?”
“Crashing someone's private beach.” I grinned.
“That works for me.” Zack stepped closer. “Although, I'm kind of thinking you came for me, not the beach.” He flashed a heart-stopping smile my way as his eyes sparkled.
“And if I did?” I couldn't have held back my smile if I had glued my mouth shut.
“I'd say a hello is in order.” Zack stepped closer.
“Hello.” I tilted my head upward. He blocked out the sun with his height.
“Hello.” Zack kissed me for the second time. “I think this time you should give me your number instead of running off like Cinderella at midnight.”
I laughed. “I'm pretty sure I didn't leave a glass slipper behind.”
“Not this time.” Zack's eyes were amused.
“My shoe coming off last time wasn't my fault.” I pointed at him.
“Okay, whose fault was it?” Zack's right eyebrow arched.
“That stupid rock.” I pouted.
“Right, it was the rock's fault.” Zack flashed me an amused smile.
“Exactly. I'm glad you see it my way.” I put on my sweetest grin I could muster. It was the same grin that got me my car, so it had to work, right?
A warm current flew through the air. It had nothing to do about being on the beach on a sunny day. This man had captured my full attention and with the way he was staring at me, I had his. I took a step backward.
“I actually came to see Erica.” I changed the subject.
“Well, you're going in the wrong direction, for one.” Zack picked up my hand. “Here, I can take you.”
His warm hand sent a thrill through my body. I liked being around Zack almost too much. I was ready to walk wherever he led me.
“Do you ever wear a shirt?” I couldn't help asking. Subtly was never my strong suit.
Zack laughed. “Nah, I take after Gramps like that. You should try it.”
I laughed. “Um... no.”
“My loss.” Zack winked.
“You're a flirt.” I laughed again.
I should be mad, but I wasn't. I was enjoying the games we played with each other. I loved his flirty personality. It made me want to match his flirtatious energy.
“Guilty.” Zack laughed. “Uncle Emmy lives this way.”
“Uncle, huh?” I found everything about Zack interesting.
“Yep. Weird family tree.” The man beside me seemed to have a secret.
“Don't we all?” I laughed.
“This is it.” Zack knocked on the door with his free hand.
A few minutes later, the door opened. Zack let my hand go. He took a step back.
“Kristen!” Erica put her arms around me.
“See ya.” Zack waved and walked away.
The next thing I knew, Erica was pulling me into her home. “Here, let me give you a tour.”
“That sounds perfect.” I glanced over my shoulder as the door was closing. I saw Zack's figure walking away. Why did my heart feel like it was walking away with him? It didn't make sense. I turned back to my cousin. I really had missed her.
Erica showed me around. Her house was beautiful. Why didn't I remember being here? Ellie was coloring at the kitchen table.
“So, Zack?” Erica gave me a knowing look.
I nodded. “Did you see that body?”
Erica laughed.
3
My phone buzzed. It was an unknown number. Cinderella left again without giving me her number.
I grinned. It had been almost a week since I had seen him. What a shame...
I know. I heard her birthday was coming up and thought we could go out to dinner that night.-Zack
I bit my lip and started tapping on the keys. I deleted it. I was having trouble coming up with a reply.
What do you say, Cinderella? -Zack
Yes (: I squealed as I sent the message.
Now, the big question... when is your birthday? -Zack
I laughed and sent him the date.
What, no birthday time? ,(: -Zack
6:43 AM
Pick you up around 11 AM for lunch?-Zack
I thought you said dinner. I found myself laughing.
Changed my mind. So 11 AM? -Zack
I guess I can do lunch.
(: See you then -Zack
(:
“What's all of this squealing I hear?” My Mom walked in.
“I have a birthday date.” I grinned.
“With who?” Mom rubbed her necklace.
I felt compelled to tell her everything. “His name is Zack. He is Emmy's... Erica's nephew? I think...” I made a face.
“Oh.” Mom seemed less cautious. “And he asked you out for... your birthday?”
I nodded. “He's a little older, but only by a year. I hope that's okay.”
Mom sat down. “I'm sure it will be fine. Tell me all about him.”
“He is so cute. He's sweet. He calls me Cinderella.” I giggled. “Anyway, he's picking me up at 11 AM for a birthday lunch.”
“As long as you have breakfast with me and your father first.” Mom smiled.
“Dad doesn't like to wake up that early.” I frowned.
“It's your birthday. He'll make an exception.” Mom nodded her head.
I shrugged. “Sure, I can have breakfast with you guys.”
I could count the times Dad had woken up in time for breakfast on one hand and, honestly, I didn't need the whole hand. I didn't see how Mom was going to pry him out of bed at a normal breakfast hour, but I had done my part and agreed. And if saying yes to breakfast secured my date with Zack, I was going to say yes.
The timer on the stove went off. “I better get that.” Mom got up and left the room.
“Okay.” I fell on my bed.
I was more excited about my birthday now that I had a birthday date with Zack than I had been a few days ago. 17 isn't really the big one. You know, 16 you drive a car. 18 you can vote. 17, what can you do with that? I think give blood.
My thoughts shifted back to Zack. Erica had accused me of being boy crazy more than once, but I wasn't the married one. I thought about how much time I had spent with Zack and how he made me feel when I was with him. I couldn't wait until I saw him again.
4
“Happy birthday!” Mom told me.
“Thanks.” I was excited.
“How does it feel to be 17?” Dad walked in, scratching his stomach.
“Uh, Dad... you're awake.” I stepped out of his way.
“I told you he would be here.” Mom gave Dad a pointed look.
I sat down. The breakfast was already on the table. That didn't usually happen. Half the time Mom was at the stove with food burnt. It was weird, either food was done perfectly or burnt to a crisp. There was no middle ground. I filled my plate and Mom said a prayer.
“Amen.” My Dad and I echoed.
“17.” Dad smiled.
“Yep.” I grinned. “One more year until I am 18.”
“Growing up too fast.” Mom filled up her plate.
“It happens to the best of us.” Dad took a drink of his milk.
“I guess so.” I shrugged.
