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  Israel

  The Brothers Ali

  Book 2

  By

  USA Today Bestselling Author

  Celeste Granger

  Author of The All That & Moore Series

  Note from the Publisher: This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead or references to locations, persons, events, or locations is purely coincidental. The characters, circumstances, and events are imaginative and not intended to reflect real events.

  Israel – The Brothers Ali Book 2

  Copyright 2020 Celeste Granger

  All Rights Reserved and Proprietary.

  No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or format without written permission from Publisher. Send all requests via email to [email protected]

  Printed in the United States of America

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  Acknowledgment

  Wow! Can you believe it’s been two years since I started my writing journey? Time has flown by so fast, and you, my reading family, have been incredibly supportive since the very beginning. I cannot thank you enough for taking a chance on me and being willing to read, share, and enjoy my work. Love is a crazy journey of twists and turns that lead to that happily ever after. This writing quest that you have joined me on has many of the same crazy twists and turns. But together, we will have that same happily ever after. I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge my literary support team, Graphic artist, LaNisha Renee, Alpha reader Jeanell Byers Copeland, and my editing team. I would also like to thank my friends and family for their unwavering support.

  I appreciate you!

  Dedication

  This book is dedicated to adventurous love and those that seek and find it.

  Chapter One

  It was late evening at Chateau Elan. The Atlanta sun was just beginning to set, casting unlimited brilliant colors of oranges, lush blues, and hints of purple as Aya stood just outside French doors, preparing to open for her. Dressed in a custom Andrea Iyamah, African American wedding designer to the stars. The original provided a beautiful silhouette, the lace bodice shadowing Aya’s shapely form, the off the shoulder sheer sleeves layering tendrils of lace against her obsidian skin. The tulle mermaid full-length gown feathered over her heels, trailing a seven-foot train behind her. The only jewelry Aya wore was a simple pair of two-carat diamond stud earrings, a gift from Basel, and the five-carat pear-shaped diamond ring he presented her with when they returned to the States. Seven. Seven carats. Seven, the number of happiness, perfection, and completeness.

  Inside, Basel stood underneath an arch of white roses waiting for her. He was striking in a Brunello Cuccinelli custom single breast, peak lapel black tuxedo with pristine white on white shirt and tie. Basel’s eyes were fixed on the French doors. He couldn’t wait to see his love, Aya. His brothers, Israel, and O’Shea stood with him as best men. The other Ali brothers sat with Omar and Aziza awaiting the brides’ entrance. Across from Basel were Charity and Ava, Aya’s sister. They were her matrons of honor; both dressed in floor-length black evening gowns complimentary to Aya’s. Ava was already in tears. The reunion with her sister was so unexpected, and to now be here with Aya on her most special day was more than Ava could have ever dreamed. She watched as her daughter, Aya’s niece, Aissa, carefully left a trail of white and black rose petals for Aya to walk on. Ava’s eyes trailed to her husband, Moussa, and her son Mustapha Okiro who made the trip with her. Now, Ava’s family was complete. And as Aya entered the room, soon hers would be, too.

  Family and friends in attendance stood as Monica’s, “For You I Will” was played and sang by a renowned musician. The song perfectly summarized the incredible journey Aya and Basel had been on, the sacrifices they made, and the promises they planned to keep. When the door opened, and Basel got a glimpse of her, he thought his heart would stop beating in his chest. Aya had never been more beautiful, and she only had eyes for him. Across the ceremonial space, their eyes connected, and his entrancement of her and her entrancement of him lasted long after she reached the top of the aisle. Basel couldn’t wait to get to her. He never wanted Aya to feel alone again, even when there were people all around her.

  Smoothing out his suit without taking his eyes off Aya, Basel’s strides carried him to her. The music faded as Basel took her hand. Aya had never been happier taking his. She felt that same magically surprising touch as she did the first time her flesh encountered his. She swooned, knowing beyond all knowing that this man truly loved her. They walked side by side and stood in front of the minister.

  “This is the day that two hearts are joined as one. And, those who are here as witnesses have a responsibility to this beautiful couple, to support their union, as the Creator will guide it. Can those of us who are willing to lift Aya and Basel and support what God has destined as their togetherness; say I do?”

  There was a loving chorus of, I do, from every person in the room.

  “Now comes the time for the exchange of vows. And I understand you each have written your own. Basel?”

  Basel made sure to hold both of Aya’s hands in his so she could feel their connection and know that the words he spoke, he spoke from his heart.

  “I never believed that love, at first sight, was real. It sounded like stories in fairy tales and romance novels but not in real life. That is until I met you. You intrigued me from the very beginning, nullifying my earlier thoughts and showing me that love could be felt instantaneously. And I fell in love with you, Aya. I wanted to protect you and shield you from all hurt, harm, and danger from the moment my eyes met yours. And that’s my promise to you that I will be here for you to protect you, support you, encourage you, and love you so that you never have to worry, never have to wonder, and never feel alone. I am your family. You are mine. I am here for you until the end of time.”

  “Aya,” the minister said.

  Hearing the loving words Basel shared, Aya felt the hot press of tears against the back of her eyes. Never had she imagined that her life would change so significantly and so fast. She went from being an independent woman with a singular family member and no relationship to speak of to finding her sister, gaining a brother in law, and a niece and nephew that she adored. And then, if the Creator couldn’t remind her anymore how much she was loved and that He hadn’t forgotten her, she met Basel, the man who changed her life seemingly overnight.

  “I never believed that love, at first sight, was real. It sounded like stories in fairy tales and romance novels but not something that could happen in real life, not my life. But the moment I met you, Basel, I felt kindred, a connection, a yearning to be with you, and the moment we were apart, I missed you.”

  Aya felt Basel’s eyes penetrating hers, seeing into the soul he made feel whole.

  “I’ve never felt that way before, and now I know why. Because you, beloved, were made for me, to be my stronghold, to be my shield, my support, my friend, and confidante. You were made to protect me and to love me even when I feel unlovable. I am your family, and you, beloved, are mine.” Her heart was so full; she could no longer keep the tears from flowing. And when Basel reached over and gently wiped her eyes then planted a kiss on each lid, Aya’s heart nearly burst.

  “I am here for you until the end of time.”

  “The love between these two is evident and infectious,” the minister smiled.

  Aya and Basel exchanged rings. For him, a pla
tinum band with a row of diamonds and for her the same complimentary of the pear-shaped center stone.

  “Now, with the giving and receiving of rings, I am happy to pronounce you husband and wife. Basel, you may kiss your bride.”

  The reception was just as incredible as the ceremony with silk draped ceilings in white, beautifully decorated round tables draped in black dupioni silk accentuated with low lit candles and platinum toned place settings and flatware. The dance floor was raised translucent with the couple’s initials embossed in lights under the floor. Seated at the head table were the wedded couple and the bridal party. Aya was on cloud nine. She married the man of her dreams and was celebrating with friends and her new family.

  “If I can have your attention for just a moment,” Israel asked after clinking his champagne glass to get the guests' attention.

  “I’m supposed to say something nice about the groom and my new sister,” Israel began with a smirk Basel instantly recognized. “It’s easy to speak positively about Aya, because you, dear sister, have changed my brother’s life for the better. He hasn’t been the same since he met you, and that’s a good thing.”

  There was a round of laughter after Israel’s cheeky comment.

  “But that’s a good thing, though,” Israel continued. “Not to say that Basel was bad in the first place. He wasn’t. Basel has always been driven, honest, intelligent, magnanimous, selfless, and my best friend. For Aya to make him better than he already was, says so much about the kind of woman she is. I, we, welcome you with open arms into our family, Aya. Basel, you did good, bro,” Israel smiled.

  “So, raise your glasses in celebration of this incredible couple that I am honored to call family!”

  Glasses clinked throughout the dining hall.

  Ava waited until the guests finished with their toast before standing to her feet. She was nervous addressing so many people she didn’t know, yet, Ava wanted to share some words and represent Aya’s family.

  “Israel gave such a stirring speech, it’s hard to follow,” Ava said nervously.

  “However, I would be remiss if I didn’t take this opportunity to honor my sister. Wow, just saying those two words warms my heart… my sister.”

  Ava could feel tears welling up in her eyes. Charity noticed it too and offered Ava a handkerchief as she took one for herself.

  “We spent far too many years apart due to circumstances far outside our control. I feared I would never see my sister again,” Ava sighed as the tears continued to fall. “Yet, my heart wouldn’t allow me to forget her, to not pray for her or wish her well even though we weren’t together. Although the circumstances in finding my sister were not ideal, the outcome has been more than I could have ever dreamed. Aya, you welcomed my family and me into your life with open arms. I was immediately reminded of when you were first born, how I held you and told you who I was, how we would always be together, and that I was your big sister. Oh, and I probably said something like, ‘you’re stuck with me,’” Ava giggled. There was laughter around the room.

  “When you left, I felt like I wouldn’t be able to keep my promise to you, for us to always be together,” Ava cried, her eyes trailing to Aya, who was also crying. “But the universe has given me a second chance, and I am so grateful. And Basel, I knew from the moment I met you that my sister would always be safe, protected, and cared for. Thank you for taking care of her for me. Love you both,” Ava sighed, lifting her glass.

  There was another round of clinking glasses as the celebration continued. Aya and Ava had a heartfelt moment as the sisters embraced, both in tears and both happier than they ever thought they could be.

  Basel lifted himself from his chair and hugged his brother.

  “You know I hate to drink and run, but I’m taking the jet for my excursion in Australia,” Israel said, leaning over to his brother.

  “I know you’ve got to go,” Basel replied. “Be safe, Israel.”

  “Always.”

  Israel wouldn’t leave without stopping by his parents' table, shaking his dad’s hand, and hugging his mother. He made sure to give parting salutations to all his brothers before exiting the festivities. Although Israel was happy for the newly married couple, Israel was excited about his newest adventure. Australia awaited.

  Chapter Two

  Perth, Australia

  Israel stepped off the family’s private jet onto an exclusive runway in Perth after a twenty-two-hour flight. But instead of climbing into a stretch limousine and going to a five-star hotel, Israel jumped into an open range jeep dressed in camouflage shorts, khaki shirt, hiking boots, and an Indiana Jones-style brim for protection from the sun. Tossing his backpack in the backseat, Israel greeted his driver and guide, Lachlan Walker.

  “Howdy,” Lachlan greeted.

  “Howdy,” Israel echoed in the customary salutation. “How long of a trek before we get to Golden Quest?”

  “Just a few kilometer clicks, mate,” Lachlan replied.

  “Excellent.”

  Israel fastened his seatbelt and sat back in the jeep to enjoy the ride. His life was such a dichotomy. He spent many days in custom-fit business suits, and many evenings on red carpets attending premiere events with cameras flashing, a beautiful woman on his arm, and the paparazzi chasing him for a headline story. He, along with his brothers, was recognized as some of the most eligible and desired bachelors in the southwest. And all of that was fine for Israel. What man didn’t enjoy having a gorgeous woman draped on his arm? He enjoyed his fast-paced, luxury lifestyle. Yet, being in the outback with nothing but miles of red clay dirt, few trees, monotone clothing with no designer label, and the hot sun radiating at temperatures that routinely hovered around the one hundred degrees mark was also something Israel enjoyed immensely. His life was tantamount to two very different sides of the very same coin – one side extroverted and seen, while the other side, more introspective, willing to fade into the background.

  Israel was in his element, breathing a sigh of relief and inhaling excitement as he looked forward to what was to come. Lachlan was quiet as he navigated the jeep over the hilly terrain. Israel appreciated the silence. He didn’t require cursory conversation. All Israel needed was the warm air beating against his brown skin and the slight breeze that passed. As they neared the dig site, Israel leaned forward in his seat, nearly straining the seatbelt that held him. Mounds of dirt, shovels, archaeological grids, and countless hours spent searching for ancient items wouldn’t ordinarily rouse most people. But for a man like Israel, this was his catnip.

  Lachlan eased the jeep to a complete stop, just outside the protected area, and turned off the ignition. Both men climbed out of the vehicle and grabbed their bags from the back of the jeep. Lachlan was there with Israel to make inroads. Israel and Lachlan had been in communication for more than three months arranging the perfect opportunity for Ali International to get involved in the current dig that was taking place.

  “I want to meet the archaeologist in charge,” Israel commented as the two men hiked the hill that led to the dig site.

  “Sure, mate,” Lachlan agreed, adjusting his wide brim hat lower on his head. Lachlan had a deep olive complexion true to his Aboriginal heritage. Israel made a point of enlisting a guide that was connected to the country in more than one way. Aboriginals were the original Australian people, displaced much like Africans were displaced to America. Lachlan’s love and respect for the land were more profound than any transplant to the country could ever be. He also had greater insight because of how the Aboriginal people respected the ground they walked on. His tracking ability was unprecedented. He could read the weather, animal tracks, and mineral markers like no one else.

  As the two men crested the hill, the full view of the sight came into focus. Israel had pictures of the sight, but it was more extensive and more dynamic in person. Several groups were working on the site, but the only person Israel was interested in was the person in charge.

  “Let’s move this way,” Lachlan enc
ouraged as they descended the incline, leaving deep footprints in the dirt under their feet. The weight of the bags they carried made their footfalls heavier than usual. Israel moved with Lachlan, being careful not to disturb those working so intently. It was easy for Israel to get distracted by the work. He was curious about their processes and whether they had made any recent discoveries. Information about the specifics of the dig had been kept close to the vest. If it were made public, the site could be flooded with treasure hunters, amateur diggers, media, and any number of people with that same level of historical curiosity. The site wouldn’t be able to be preserved in the pristine condition it needed to be in order for any discoveries to be deemed legitimate.

  “If you would, redirect the last group to reconstruct the grid. Something’s there from the readings we got from the surveying transit. I want to get a better perspective. But I need them to be extremely careful. Understood?”

  Dr. Davis was courteous but clear in the instructions given. That’s why so many burgeoning and seasoned archaeologists wanted to work on the site. The doctor’s reputation preceded her. She was new to this particular excursion, the previous supervising archaeologist falling ill just a month ago. The replacement of Dr. Davis only heightened the excitement around the dig. Israel was aware there had been a change in leadership; however, his primary concern was not who replaced whom but whether the agreements made with Ali International would still be honored. He’d had some difficulty actually speaking to someone on-site, and now he understood more clearly why. They were absolutely in the middle of nowhere. There were no telephone lines draped across the horizon to bring communication to this remote part of the country. He had to trust Lachlan to learn as much as he could, but even then, those supervising and protecting the site were not open to providing any significant amount of information. That’s part of the reason Israel rushed at the chance to make it to Australia, to deal with the governing supervisor personally.