Once Upon A Stranger - Rex

By Sumarie Nel

Table of Contents

❖  Before Word From Author

❖  Synopsis: Once Upon a Stranger: Rex

❖  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

Before Word From Author

In the picturesque backdrop of her rural hometown, Haylee Morgan, a young country girl, stumbles upon Rex Cranston, an initially imposing figure. However, as fate would have it, a twist of events leads Haylee to discover there may be more to Rex than meets the eye. Encouraged by her best friend Alex, Haylee decides to extend a hand of friendship to Rex, and their paths intertwine with increasing frequency.

As the sun-drenched days of summer pass by, tender love blossoms between Haylee and Rex, weaving a tapestry of emotions. Yet, Haylee soon realizes that Rex's world is far more complex and intricate than she could have ever imagined. With bated breath, she discovers that Rex harbors a profound secret, concealed from her watchful gaze.

Undeterred by the shadows cast upon their relationship, Haylee grapples with her feelings and endeavors to uncover the truth. The ebb and flow of destiny shape their romantic journey, setting the stage for unforeseen twists and turns.

Will their love endure the weight of Rex's hidden reality? What trials and tribulations await them on the path they traverse together? Only time will reveal what destiny has scripted for their intertwined hearts.

Chapter One

Haylee slammed the trunk shut, rushed up the steps to ensure the door was locked, and then hurried towards her car. The clock struck 7 am, and the scorching Arizona sun promised a sweltering summer day in Phoenix. This was precisely what Haylee desired, as she had taken a rare break from work for the entire summer, in desperate need of a vacation. Settling into the driver's seat, she cranked up the radio volume, tapping her fingers in rhythm to Alanis Morisette's Ironic.

The journey to her family's summer house in the countryside would occupy most of the day, but Haylee didn't mind the drive. It provided her with valuable time to plan the upcoming weekend's barbecue, which she would be hosting. Despite Alex's playful teasing about taking a break from event planning, Haylee found immense satisfaction in orchestrating the perfect social gathering. Alex, her best friend, simply couldn't comprehend that.

After nearly a day of driving, Haylee finally arrived at her cherished home away from home. She carried her bags inside and plopped down on the nearest couch, reaching for her phone to send Alex a text, reassuring her of safe arrival. Alex is always worried, bless her. As Haylee relaxed, the thought of her well-stocked beer supply enticed her. She decided to treat herself to a refreshing drink from the fridge.

Ah, she sighed, relishing the relaxation and the cool sensation gliding down her throat. The first day at the summer house was always a low-key affair, with the real festivities commencing the following day. Haylee had meticulously planned a Southern-style barbecue, eagerly anticipating the arrival of her friends from near and far, along with a few locals. It was a friend brings a friend kind of gathering, where the more, the merrier. Tonight, she would unpack her belongings and immerse herself in the nostalgic Arizona air.

This feeling was something Haylee cherished. It stood in stark contrast to her experiences in New York, where the hustle and bustle of towering buildings, incessant traffic, yellow cabs, and lost tourists seeking mall directions were the norms. Here, the countryside stretched on for miles, offering nothing but the ever-present aroma of fried chicken. It was a welcome change.

Having finished her beer, Haylee decided it was time for bed. She awoke the next day feeling completely rejuvenated, ready to embark on a trip to the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market to stock up on goodies. It was a favored local spot, offering a variety of items ranging from cheese to flowers and meat—truly a treasure trove. Of course, she couldn't resist making a stop at the town's mall as well. Some habits die hard, even for a self-proclaimed country girl like Haylee, who had a penchant for certain shopping indulgences.

Upon arriving at the market, Haylee stepped out of her car and was immediately captivated by its charming atmosphere teeming with people. Across the lawn, by the flower stall, she spotted a familiar face. As if guided by destiny, her presence didn't go unnoticed.

Haylee! a petite blonde woman exclaimed, waving enthusiastically to catch Haylee's attention. It was Anna, one of Haylee's loudest friends from the area. They had grown up together, and Anna's father had worked at the nearby mill during their childhood.

Anna, honey! How are you? Haylee removed her sunglasses