Splintered a black diamo.., p.1
Splintered: A Black Diamond Novel (Unlucky 13), page 1
Splintered
Black Diamond Novel
Unlucky 13
Isabel Lucero
Contents
Note for readers
Keep In Touch With The Author
Welcome to Black Diamond
Chance Encounter
1. Devin
2. Jarrod
3. Devin
4. Jarrod
5. Devin
6. Jarrod
7. Devin
8. Jarrod
9. Devin
10. Jarrod
11. Devin
12. Jarrod
13. Devin
14. Jarrod
15. Devin
16. Jarrod
17. Devin
18. Jarrod
19. Devin
20. Jarrod
21. Devin
22. Jarrod
23. Devin
24. Jarrod
25. Devin
26. Jarrod
27. Devin
28. Jarrod
Coincidences
29. Devin
30. Jarrod
31. Devin
32. Jarrod
33. Devin
34. Jarrod
35. Devin
36. Jarrod
37. Devin
38. Jarrod
39. Devin
40. Jarrod
41. Devin
Fate
42. Jarrod
43. Devin
44. Jarrod
45. Devin
46. Jarrod
47. Devin
48. Jarrod
49. Devin
50. Jarrod
51. Devin
52. Jarrod
53. Devin
54. Jarrod
55. Devin
56. Jarrod
57. Devin
58. Jarrod
Epilogue
Epilogue Part Two
Acknowledgments
Need More?
About the Author
Also by Isabel Lucero
Copyright © 2023 by Isabel Lucero
All rights reserved.
No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication and use of these trademarks are not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.
Cover Art by Rebel Ink
Cover Photo by Xram Ragde
Edited by Tori Ellis
Written by Isabel Lucero
About The Book
Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa—the best place to go when all you want to do is disappear and not have anyone expect anything of you.
Overwhelmed with work and feeling like I’m being pulled in multiple directions at once, I crave the serenity a private island holds for me. As a very recognizable figure in the adult film industry, I’m used to shelling out parts of myself for the sake of others. Everyone wants more pictures, videos, and more of my time and energy. Though I’ve created an empire that has made me lots of money in a business I enjoy, I still desire a break.
Sandy beaches, fruity drinks, and turquoise waters are all I expected from this trip. I definitely didn’t anticipate running into my high school crush—the jock that never once looked at me the way I wanted him to.
Jarrod Bivens is now the star goalie of the San José Bobcats, and the person half the world is blaming for his team losing in the playoffs. Clearly here for his own escape, our chance encounter ignites an instant friendship. With each day on the island, I realize my crush is far from gone, but Jarrod’s known for only dating Hollywood starlets, so he’s obviously straight. Maybe those lingering gazes and small touches are all in my head.
But one day, something interesting arises between us—a moment I couldn’t have prepared myself for. Our mounting tension finally snaps, but little did I know it was only the beginning of a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Our chemistry is undeniable, but the real world awaits, and life off the island is bound to be much different. How can two people from polar opposite worlds ever make it work?
Note for readers
I’d like to note that my story takes place before Cora’s book, Exception. Holden is mentioned in mine and he’s very much not taken. Please keep that in mind if you’ve read hers already.
xoxo
Keep In Touch With The Author
Website
Newsletter
Patreon
To the other twelve authors in this shared world, I feel lucky to have been on this journey with you. Thanks for everything!
Welcome to Black Diamond
Since our founding in 2001 by the Diamond family, we’ve strived to provide a unique experience to those who live in the public eye. Privacy and discretion is of the utmost importance to us so you won’t find paparazzi or journalists looking for a juicy story on our shores, only the relaxing lapping of waves and delicious drinks.
Enjoy the all inclusive, private resort built exclusively for the elite. From luxury villas to gorgeous white sand beaches, there’s something here for everyone on the island. Water sports, hiking, massages, and 5-star gourmet meals will have you never wanting to leave.
So take a deep breath and let us handle the rest.
Chance Encounter
Chapter 1
Devin
Your dildo launch was exceptional
“What the hell are you gonna do out there by yourself?” my agent, Steve Burham asks, his voice booming through the phone.
“Whatever I want, Steve. That’s the whole point.”
“When are you coming back?”
I sigh. “I don’t know yet. I bought a one-way ticket.”
“We got movies to make, Devin.”
“We have other actors besides myself, Steve. It’s why I started my own production company and hired a bunch of people to help run it. I don’t want to have to be there twenty-four seven.”
“There’s a lot of guys trying to get hired after you said you’d pay them nearly twice as much as most of the other companies. Don’t you wanna be here to help in the process?”
“I trust my casting directors. Plus, Cara is the production manager, and she knows her job better than anyone. She’ll handle it.”
“Did you get the email from Sword Savor? Your dildo launch was exceptional. A ton of sites were out of stock within hours.”
“Yeah, I saw it,” I reply, handing my plane ticket to the woman at the gate. “I’m about to get on the plane, so I’ll talk to you when I’m back.”
“You’re not gonna have your phone on you the whole time?” he questions.
“I want to disconnect from the world. I don’t want anyone calling or texting. I will check in when I’m ready. Bye, Steve.”
“Devin, wait—”
I end the call and turn off the phone prior to sitting in my first class passenger seat. Before everyone is on the plane, I already have my earbuds in and eyes closed. I’m beyond ready for a vacation. I don’t remember the last time I went somewhere that wasn’t in some way related to business.
My first five years in the sex industry basically consisted of taking any job I could so I was able to pay rent and eat dinner. After a while, and thanks to internet sites like Twitter and OnlyFans, I was able to grow my fanbase. Once companies started noticing how popular I was becoming, I started getting more job offers and was able to request a higher paycheck.
I’ve been working almost non-stop since then, needing to become more successful—seeking the title of the most popular and highest paid porn star in the industry. It started with simply wanting to get more than five hundred dollars for a scene, then I wanted to get scenes with popular actors, after that I wanted to produce and direct. Once I accomplished those things, I needed my own production company so I could treat actors the way I wish I had been treated in my first several years.
Now I’m creating a line of sex toys, can pick and choose my scenes with whoever I want, and have more money than I ever thought possible in this industry. However, I’ve recently started to feel like I’ve lost myself—like I’m splintered into different pieces to try to make everyone happy: my agent, my business partners, my clients, my viewers, and my parents.
Granted, my parents have not been happy with me for over a decade, but I feel like they were my sole motivation to get to where I am. They doubted I’d be able to be successful in such a dirty and trashy industry. They were embarrassed, and I wanted to prove to them I could be rich and famous in my own right.
As the son of Hollywood icons, Sofía De’León and William Davis, both of my parents wanted and expected me to take after them. They were huge advocates of nepotism, forcing me into commercials as a toddler and small roles in their films. As I got older, they wanted to introduce me to a friend of a friend for a modeling casting call, or promised I’d be a shoo-in for a role in a TV series.
It’s no
So, when I was eighteen, after a huge fight with my dad about not wanting to audition for a role in his film, I blurted out that I would rather do porn. That eventually turned into my reality, and when I moved out, I was cut off from their millions and forced to find a way on my own. That’s what ultimately led to my workaholic personality and finding a business in which I could trick myself into thinking everyone I slept with actually liked me.
I’m successful now. The highest paid actor in porn sitting on an empire that will continue to make me money for years to come, and yet, I’m still not happy.
I’m taking this vacation for a sense of tranquility. I want to be completely selfish here and do what makes me happy without worrying about others.
I pull a blanket up to my chin and fall asleep, ready to be on a bright, sunny island where nobody should care about who I am or what I do.
“Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa,” the man tells me as I approach the reception desk.
He’s fairly young, his skin bronze from being out in this tropical weather all the time. His hair is sandy blond and his eyes are as blue as the ocean. I read his nametag.
“Thanks, Tyler.”
Typing on his keyboard, he says, “I have you staying here for the rest of June, is that correct?”
“As of now.”
He nods, a gracious smile on his lips. “Okay, we have you set up in bungalow six, and one of our employees will drive you out there.” He hands me a folder. “This has everything you may need. There’s a map of the island, a list of restaurants and activities available to you, and the phone numbers to the cleaning and butler staff if you need anything. Your room has a keyless entry. There’s a bracelet that will unlock the door for you, as well as many facilities here at the resort like the gym and business center. Is this your first time, sir?”
I nod. “Yeah.”
“Well, the Black Diamond Resort and Spa is split into two sections. You’re here, on the resort side, but there is a rehab on the other side of the mountain. You should have no need to go over there, but if you’re exploring the jungle, you may find yourself amongst new staff and guests. They have rules and curfews, so it’s best to not go too far.”
“I don’t think I’ll find myself in the jungle,” I say with a laugh.
“There are some beautiful waterfalls, sir,” he says with a smile. “Could be a nice place to relax.”
I dip my chin. “I’ll keep that in mind.”
“I’m going to have Matteo drive you to your bungalow,” he says, gesturing to a man in a white shirt and khaki pants who’s standing near the door. “Please let us know if you need anything, and enjoy your stay.”
“Thank you,” I reply with a nod, hiking my backpack higher on my shoulder.
“Bungalow six, sir?” Matteo questions, though he obviously knows.
“Yes. Are my bags here yet?”
“We’ve already taken them to your room, sir.”
“Oh. Thank you.”
“Of course,” he says, walking toward a golf cart.
I slip into the back as he drives us away from the main building, passing a large pool, other guests, and many, many trees. When he stops, we’re in front of a long pier that travels out over the crystalline water where bungalows spread out on both sides, seemingly floating over the water.
When I look to my left and right, I notice there are a few more piers with the same setup.
“Are all of these occupied?” I ask as we begin our walk along the pier.
“No, sir. Out of the twelve on this pier, I believe only eight are currently occupied. That’s not to say that won’t change.”
Even with my sunglasses on, I squint as I look out into the water, noticing some people on kayaks and others on paddle boards.
“Where do we go to rent a kayak?” I ask.
“You can call us and we can have one delivered to you, sir. Otherwise, the water sport equipment is farther down the beach.”
“Okay.”
We turn right, where the pier veers off to lead to a bungalow. “Here you are, sir,” Matteo says, gesturing at the door. “The bracelet in the folder will open it up. Do you need anything else before I leave you?”
“Uh, no. I think I’m good. Thanks,” I say, pulling the band from the folder.
“You’re welcome. Enjoy your stay.”
When I walk inside, I look through every room. It’s even more beautiful than the photos online. I knew to expect opulence with the price tag that comes along with a private island stay in bungalows that sit over the Caribbean, but seeing it in person is incredible.
The king-sized bed looks out over the water and back patio, and the kitchen is stocked with full-sized liquor bottles, juices, water, and other mixers. On the small dining table is a bowl of fruit and a basket full of bagged snacks like pretzels, muffins, and chips.
When I cross in front of the bed, I walk over a rectangular piece of glass floor, and find myself watching fish swim below me. My luggage is inside the walk-in closet where there’s a robe, slippers, and extra towels and blankets.
The bathroom is incredible, with a large soaking tub standing right in front of sliding doors that will open up to the back veranda. From the inside shower, you can also step right outside to an outdoor shower. There’s a small privacy wall, blocking anyone from being able to see me while I’m outside.
There’s patio furniture, a private pool, a day bed under the palapa, and a few steps that descend to a lower platform with a couple of chairs.
Once I’ve taken it all in, I go back inside and flop onto the bed. I pull my phone out of my pocket, ready to power it on and see how many messages I have already.
As soon as it lights up, the notifications pour in. I’ve only been out of touch for eleven hours and Steve has left two voicemails and sent five texts. My business partner, Sayid, has sent an email about an upcoming movie we’ll be producing. A handful of messages come from other actors I’ve been working with lately who are inquiring about job opportunities, and the company that made and sold the dildo created from a mold of my own cock is now interested in selling a mouth stroker.
I reply to what’s necessary before shutting it down again and reaching for the remote on the nightstand. When I turn on the flatscreen that’s hoisted on the wall to the left of the bed, it’s already on a sports channel.
I’m not much of a sports guy. I know the names of some popular teams, but I don’t regularly watch any of it. However, there’s a familiar face on the screen, so I leave it on and turn the volume up.
“Bivens is definitely hanging his head after that crushing miss. The Bobcats, up the whole game with the finals in their sight, and all Bivens had to do was keep the Panthers from making a goal. And what did he do, Bob? He gave up two back-to-back! My god, that’s gonna hurt for a while.”
