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Lucky, in love
Victoria Monroe
Lucky, in love
Victoria Monroe
July 10, 2020
Lucky, in love — Chapter One
Victoria Monroe
Chapter One—Lucky
“That’s a lot of lemons!”
The smile on my face comes without force in response to the store clerk’s comment as I shift several sacks of lemons from the cart. I nod in agreement before opening my calendar to review my agenda for the rest of the day. I’m pleased to note that my schedule is open until a two o’clock appointment for a final walkthrough for tomorrow’s event.
“Are you making lemonade? You’ll need a lot of sugar.”
The question draws my attention to the middle-aged woman in front of me, who wears her years more than I wear mine. I quickly notice the items on the belt: sugary cereals, bags of frozen processed foods that make for a quick dinner, juice boxes, and a small mountain of fresh fruits, greens, and vegetables. When my eyes meet hers, she’s peering at my lemons over a recent tabloid she’s reading while her groceries are scanned and bagged.
“No, I’m not making lemonade. I’m making centerpieces,” I correct her in a friendly tone.
The woman seems satisfied with my brief response and raises the tabloid back to her face, leaving the cover in plain view… SEXY MODEL TURNED ACTOR—STORMS PAPARAZZI OVER QUESTIONS ABOUT STEAMY SEX TAPE. She lays the open magazine down while she sorts through her wallet congested with receipts and coupons. Despite my diligence to keep from looking at tabloids, this one presents itself directly in my sights, and I find myself powerless to stop from looking down at the pages before me. There’s an image of a handsome man and stunning raven-haired young woman walking into some Hollywood elitist’s hangout. There’s another picture of the handsome man posing in tuxedo pants with his perfectly tanned, rippled abdominals on full display—his dark-blond hair looks as if fingers have tousled it with urgency. On the opposite page is a large image of a man and woman in a sensual and rather compromising situation. The image is vague due to its poor quality, but it seems obvious the man in every picture is the same.
“He’s something else, isn’t he?” The magazine falls closed and once again, my attention is brought to the woman before me. This time, I notice the thick insert of pictures in her wallet as she squeezes it to snap the closure.
“A husband and four kids can’t keep me from fantasizing about him. Those green eyes of his make me melt, and that body—I couldn’t be so lucky.”
“I could be.” The words are out before I realize I say them.
“Way to think positive.” The woman laughs as she pushes her cart away. “Hopefully, you’ll be lucky,” she calls over her shoulder as her body simmers with laughter.
“I always feel bad for people exploited in those magazines.” I turn my attention back to the clerk, who pours out her heart about celebrity gossip. The elderly woman’s face is mapped by everywhere she’s been in life and everything she’s gone through. Her sincerity touches me. “No matter what they do, it’s everyone’s business, and it’s not right. I don’t know if any famous person can outsmart the paparazzi and their yellow journalism.” I follow the prompts on the credit processing device, completing my transaction as she voices her frustrations over the gossip in the rag mags. “Unfortunately, it’s a price they all seem to pay for the life of fame.” I collect my receipt and hang my reusable shopping bags from my left arm. I offer her a weak smile before she moves on to the next person in line.
Shaking off the encounter, and the recollection of the pictures in the tabloid, I navigate the parking lot with agility and quickly merge onto the highway. Speed does wonders for rattled nerves. In my business, poise and efficiency are all that’s needed. There’s no room for distraction and chaos. The drive toward the south end of the island is picturesque. It’s lush with foliage, quiet and serene. The breeze blows through tall pines, seagrass, and rustles through leaves. It’s hard to believe that anyone could have a care in the world here. The historic private property is a sanctuary of peaceful comfort in a world that seems to be on fast forward. The long, winding drive is shaded by sweet birch trees and flowering dogwoods. The fragrance inundates the senses and is the first impression of everything this magical property has to offer the patrons, who return time after time to find the solace they seek.
*****
James, the door man currently on duty, smiles brightly as I approach the entrance to the Grand House with my shopping bags.
“Good morning, Miss MacIntyre, you look lovely today.”
“Good morning, James! Thank you and how are you today?”
“I couldn’t be better, it’s absolutely beautiful today.”
“That it is,” I agree with a smile and continue into the lobby.
I return the smiles and greetings of the staff as I make my way to check progress on the veranda. Over the past two weeks, massive pots containing full-grown lemon trees have been transported from the climate-controlled greenhouses where they’re stored during the harsh Northeastern winters. Now they’re placed in their summertime locations on the vast veranda of the Grand House, along its exterior corridors, and scattered throughout the garden oasis. The groundskeepers have been occupied for days, repairing the lawn from the equipment used to move the trees. Now, there isn’t any indication the lawn was ever disturbed. It appears perfectly groomed and meticulously maintained. “I. AM. SPEECHLESS.” I call out for all to hear. Hollers and claps from event staff are my response.
“Get crackin’ on centerpieces, boss lady!” The sassy comment comes from Nora. She’s overseeing this event, and several others, as well as taking on a larger role in managing this summer. It will satisfy her requirement for a hospitality internship as part of her bachelor’s degree program—which she’ll earn in three years instead of four. I’m so proud of her.
“I’m going—don’t call or write—I’ll be busy.”
Once inside the floral room, I place the bags on the high table and shake out my arm from the weight of them. I feel my body immediately unwind and relax. My floral room is an escape of sorts. I’m an artist at heart. I love to paint, sketch, draw. I read books, listen to music. I love to create. So, having a room dedicated to making arrangements and painting isn’t a bad deal. I have the not-so-guilty pleasure of doing everything I love—in exactly the place I love most in this world. The floral room is also, in my opinion, the room with the most spectacular view from anywhere on the property. Originally, there was a single window in this room, but that was changed to glass French doors which overlook the property in the direction of the Farmhouse and the cottage beyond.
The two-hundred-year-old farmhouse is the original residence of the Howland family. As generations changed, the family built a hotel building and got into the hospitality business. They called it the Grand House—we still do. Later generations lost interest in the property. They stopped all farming, gardening, and lodging. The property was deserted for many years, and the buildings quickly fell into disrepair. Those are my early memories of the Island of Ocean Creek. I would come here, despite the warnings not to trespass on the private property. What do they care, I thought. Don’t trespass, but they had no care for this treasure they possessed that was deteriorating before my eyes. I used to dream about seeing this place thrive—seeing the buildings restored and bustling with activity. Seeing the gardens painted with a rainbow of stunning plants and trees that could only make someone think of Eden. But outside my window, there’s a stretch of ground that remains unaltered. To the dismay of the groundskeepers, except for a small path clearing, I request for this section of land to remain untouched. It stretches from the floral room doors, behind the private residences, to the shore. They keep it camouflaged from the cultivated lawns and gardens with black spruce, red oaks, sweet birch, tulip trees, dogwoods, gardens… but it’s there—for me. The cottage is my primary residence, and the path is the same one I made trespassing here all those years ago. The years the property spent abandoned—neglected and overgrown—are a distant memory to many, and hard to fathom when surrounded by its current splendor. I remember them… I remember them as vividly as if they haven’t been gone a single day, even though they’ve been gone for fifteen years. Even then, there was a beauty about this place. A beauty that could only exist then, in those moments, at that point in time. A beauty that even the exquisite restoration can’t duplicate or replace. That’s why I keep this space untouched. This place means so much to me, more than anyone knows.
I open my music streaming app on my iPad and anchor it onto the docking station. Music flows, and I get to work making arrangements. My mind clears of everything except the artistry of my creations. Large glass cylinders filled with cut lemons, whole lemons, clear water beads and soft white submersible LED lights. Tall grass emerges from the artfully illuminated vessels. Variegated vinca vines drape over the sides in a romantic way. Fragrant blooms of honeysuckle and white lilacs drench the air with perfume. There’s nothing quite as powerful to retrieve memories as something that has touched the senses. This smell alone reminds me of days from long ago, but when a song from the late nineties drifts from my speaker… “I look at you, looking at me. Now I know why they say the best things are free,” I’m reminded of being twenty-one and carefree. I recall listening to this song one summer night, and I remember who I was with. Instantly, flashes of headlines and grainy pictures come to mind. I take a deep breath, willing myself to purge thoughts about him—the same way I’ve done time and again for twenty-one years.
Chapter One—Lucky
“That’s a lot of lemons!”
The smile on my face comes without force in response to the store clerk’s comment as I shift several sacks of lemons from the cart. I nod in agreement before opening my calendar to review my agenda for the rest of the day. I’m pleased to note that my schedule is open until a two o’clock appointment for a final walkthrough for tomorrow’s event.
“Are you making lemonade? You’ll need a lot of sugar.”
The question draws my attention to the middle-aged woman in front of me, who wears her years more than I wear mine. I quickly notice the items on the belt: sugary cereals, bags of frozen processed foods that make for a quick dinner, juice boxes, and a small mountain of fresh fruits, greens, and vegetables. When my eyes meet hers, she’s peering at my lemons over a recent tabloid she’s reading while her groceries are scanned and bagged.
“No, I’m not making lemonade. I’m making centerpieces,” I correct her in a friendly tone.
The woman seems satisfied with my brief response and raises the tabloid back to her face, leaving the cover in plain view… SEXY MODEL TURNED ACTOR—STORMS PAPARAZZI OVER QUESTIONS ABOUT STEAMY SEX TAPE. She lays the open magazine down while she sorts through her wallet congested with receipts and coupons. Despite my diligence to keep from looking at tabloids, this one presents itself directly in my sights, and I find myself powerless to stop from looking down at the pages before me. There’s an image of a handsome man and stunning raven-haired young woman walking into some Hollywood elitist’s hangout. There’s another picture of the handsome man posing in tuxedo pants with his perfectly tanned, rippled abdominals on full display—his dark-blond hair looks as if fingers have tousled it with urgency. On the opposite page is a large image of a man and woman in a sensual and rather compromising situation. The image is vague due to its poor quality, but it seems obvious the man in every picture is the same.
“He’s something else, isn’t he?” The magazine falls closed and once again, my attention is brought to the woman before me. This time, I notice the thick insert of pictures in her wallet as she squeezes it to snap the closure.
“A husband and four kids can’t keep me from fantasizing about him. Those green eyes of his make me melt, and that body—I couldn’t be so lucky.”
“I could be.” The words are out before I realize I say them.
“Way to think positive.” The woman laughs as she pushes her cart away. “Hopefully, you’ll be lucky,” she calls over her shoulder as her body simmers with laughter.
“I always feel bad for people exploited in those magazines.” I turn my attention back to the clerk, who pours out her heart about celebrity gossip. The elderly woman’s face is mapped by everywhere she’s been in life and everything she’s gone through. Her sincerity touches me. “No matter what they do, it’s everyone’s business, and it’s not right. I don’t know if any famous person can outsmart the paparazzi and their yellow journalism.” I follow the prompts on the credit processing device, completing my transaction as she voices her frustrations over the gossip in the rag mags. “Unfortunately, it’s a price they all seem to pay for the life of fame.” I collect my receipt and hang my reusable shopping bags from my left arm. I offer her a weak smile before she moves on to the next person in line.
Shaking off the encounter, and the recollection of the pictures in the tabloid, I navigate the parking lot with agility and quickly merge onto the highway. Speed does wonders for rattled nerves. In my business, poise and efficiency are all that’s needed. There’s no room for distraction and chaos. The drive toward the south end of the island is picturesque. It’s lush with foliage, quiet and serene. The breeze blows through tall pines, seagrass, and rustles through leaves. It’s hard to believe that anyone could have a care in the world here. The historic private property is a sanctuary of peaceful comfort in a world that seems to be on fast forward. The long, winding drive is shaded by sweet birch trees and flowering dogwoods. The fragrance inundates the senses and is the first impression of everything this magical property has to offer the patrons, who return time after time to find the solace they seek.
*****
James, the door man currently on duty, smiles brightly as I approach the entrance to the Grand House with my shopping bags.
“Good morning, Miss MacIntyre, you look lovely today.”
“Good morning, James! Thank you and how are you today?”
“I couldn’t be better, it’s absolutely beautiful today.”
“That it is,” I agree with a smile and continue into the lobby.
I return the smiles and greetings of the staff as I make my way to check progress on the veranda. Over the past two weeks, massive pots containing full-grown lemon trees have been transported from the climate-controlled greenhouses where they’re stored during the harsh Northeastern winters. Now they’re placed in their summertime locations on the vast veranda of the Grand House, along its exterior corridors, and scattered throughout the garden oasis. The groundskeepers have been occupied for days, repairing the lawn from the equipment used to move the trees. Now, there isn’t any indication the lawn was ever disturbed. It appears perfectly groomed and meticulously maintained. “I. AM. SPEECHLESS.” I call out for all to hear. Hollers and claps from event staff are my response.
“Get crackin’ on centerpieces, boss lady!” The sassy comment comes from Nora. She’s overseeing this event, and several others, as well as taking on a larger role in managing this summer. It will satisfy her requirement for a hospitality internship as part of her bachelor’s degree program—which she’ll earn in three years instead of four. I’m so proud of her.
“I’m going—don’t call or write—I’ll be busy.”
Once inside the floral room, I place the bags on the high table and shake out my arm from the weight of them. I feel my body immediately unwind and relax. My floral room is an escape of sorts. I’m an artist at heart. I love to paint, sketch, draw. I read books, listen to music. I love to create. So, having a room dedicated to making arrangements and painting isn’t a bad deal. I have the not-so-guilty pleasure of doing everything I love—in exactly the place I love most in this world. The floral room is also, in my opinion, the room with the most spectacular view from anywhere on the property. Originally, there was a single window in this room, but that was changed to glass French doors which overlook the property in the direction of the Farmhouse and the cottage beyond.
The two-hundred-year-old farmhouse is the original residence of the Howland family. As generations changed, the family built a hotel building and got into the hospitality business. They called it the Grand House—we still do. Later generations lost interest in the property. They stopped all farming, gardening, and lodging. The property was deserted for many years, and the buildings quickly fell into disrepair. Those are my early memories of the Island of Ocean Creek. I would come here, despite the warnings not to trespass on the private property. What do they care, I thought. Don’t trespass, but they had no care for this treasure they possessed that was deteriorating before my eyes. I used to dream about seeing this place thrive—seeing the buildings restored and bustling with activity. Seeing the gardens painted with a rainbow of stunning plants and trees that could only make someone think of Eden. But outside my window, there’s a stretch of ground that remains unaltered. To the dismay of the groundskeepers, except for a small path clearing, I request for this section of land to remain untouched. It stretches from the floral room doors, behind the private residences, to the shore. They keep it camouflaged from the cultivated lawns and gardens with black spruce, red oaks, sweet birch, tulip trees, dogwoods, gardens… but it’s there—for me. The cottage is my primary residence, and the path is the same one I made trespassing here all those years ago. The years the property spent abandoned—neglected and overgrown—are a distant memory to many, and hard to fathom when surrounded by its current splendor. I remember them… I remember them as vividly as if they haven’t been gone a single day, even though they’ve been gone for fifteen years. Even then, there was a beauty about this place. A beauty that could only exist then, in those moments, at that point in time. A beauty that even the exquisite restoration can’t duplicate or replace. That’s why I keep this space untouched. This place means so much to me, more than anyone knows.
I open my music streaming app on my iPad and anchor it onto the docking station. Music flows, and I get to work making arrangements. My mind clears of everything except the artistry of my creations. Large glass cylinders filled with cut lemons, whole lemons, clear water beads and soft white submersible LED lights. Tall grass emerges from the artfully illuminated vessels. Variegated vinca vines drape over the sides in a romantic way. Fragrant blooms of honeysuckle and white lilacs drench the air with perfume. There’s nothing quite as powerful to retrieve memories as something that has touched the senses. This smell alone reminds me of days from long ago, but when a song from the late nineties drifts from my speaker… “I look at you, looking at me. Now I know why they say the best things are free,” I’m reminded of being twenty-one and carefree. I recall listening to this song one summer night, and I remember who I was with. Instantly, flashes of headlines and grainy pictures come to mind. I take a deep breath, willing myself to purge thoughts about him—the same way I’ve done time and again for twenty-one years.
February 13, 2017
FOREVER HEARTS ~ A Holding on Forever Valentine's Day Story
Forever Hearts
A Holding on Forever Valentine's Day
February 14, 2017
Part One—Early in the Morning...
~Gage~
The alarm clock sounds more like a thumping bass drum next to the bed and less like an annoying beep. Turning it off, I slide my arm back underneath the warm shelter of the plush duvet, nestling into my soft, thick pillows, quickly slipping back into a deep sleep.
*****
When I booked this slope side suite at the ski resort, I knew my feet would never be strapped in skis the entire weekend. The sight of her body, barely drizzled in seductive red lace, writhing against the stark white sheets, is the perfect wrapping to the only Valentine's Day present I need. Laken. She curls her sexy finger, in a come-hither sort of way. I stretch out next to her on the bed and she leans over me, her hot breath dancing across my skin as she presses her plump lips softly to my cheek and whispers, "Baby... Gage... Come on... Gage..." Finally, as I turn my head to search for her sweet mouth... "GAGE! COME ON! You're going to be late."
*****
Her panicked exclamation temporarily hides her sultry tone, and it startles me. "What?!" I sit up quickly, realizing the room is lighter than it should be for six o'clock in the morning. Laken is obviously showered, dressed and perfectly styled looking delectable, in a snug fitting pencil skirt and sexy red blouse with black leather boots which cover her knees. "Damn baby, you look incredible," I compliment her as I begin to wipe sleep from my face and slide my fingers through my hair in an effort to tame the effects of the pillow. "I never heard the alarm, what time is it?"
"You did hear it. You turned it off," Laken scolds. "You're going to be late. It's five after seven."
"What? Damnit! I have a meeting at eight-thirty."
I know. Get moving. I'll fix you coffee and leave it on the island with some fruit. I'm going to the shop early. After all, it's Valentine's Day and there will undoubtedly be swarms of last-minute-ladies seeking the perfect sexy outfit and lingerie for their romantic evenings.
"Baby, I'm sorry our romantic weekend at the resort didn't happen and I feel so badly we can't spend any time together today."
"It's alright. There are two extremely wonderful, amazing, perfect reasons why we didn't go." Laken smiles brightly and her eyes shine.
"I know," I assure her as I stand and wrap my arms around her on my way into the bathroom. "But I'm haunted by not spending the past two days whispering sweet nothings in your ear while I make love to every inch of this gorgeous body. I was even dreaming about it just now."
"Well, dream boy, time is ticking. You need to get moving... I'll see you tonight after your dinner meeting." Lake kisses me quickly on the lips before I step into the shower.
*****
The day is busy. It's been one thing after another and I'm not surprised to see it's already past noon. I sent a message to Austen, the office manager, almost an hour ago, to set up a phone call with Robert O'Donnell as soon as possible. He’s the CEO of the natural gas company, in Indiana, we’re building the new plant for in Pittsburgh. Damn, why does he have to be traveling today?
"Excuse me, Gage," Austen speaks through the intercom, "I have Mr. O'Donnell on the line, I'll connect you now."
"Thanks, Austen." I take a deep breath before pressing the button next to the blinking red light. "Good afternoon, Gage Scott. Yes, hello, Robert. I hope you and your family are doing well. Yes, they are, Robert, thank you. Everyone is great! It was a hectic weekend, but everything turned out perfect. Robert, the reason I called was to discuss our meeting this evening. I'm afraid I need to cancel, sir. I apologize for the inconvenience but I have another extremely pressing matter that requires my direct attention and it cannot be put off. I'm willing to make any other arrangements necessary. Perhaps I can travel to Indianapolis later this week and meet you at your office? Oh, I didn't realize. It's a good thing you never got out. Well, I suppose this was a 'perfect storm' so to speak. Alright, Robert, next week it is. I'll have Austen coordinate with your office to set it up. Thank you. You too, goodbye."
Just when I feel as though a thousand pounds has been lifted from my shoulders, a whole new wave of stress washes over me.
"Austen, I need to see you in my office right away."
*****
"Hey, baby!" Hearing her sultry, breathy voice on the phone still gets me every time. Every. Damn. Time. It's different from when we're together, I can see her, touch her, taste her. But over the phone, her seductive voice makes my heart thump and my blood rush. I ache to see her.
"Hey, gorgeous, how's your day going?"
"My feet are killing me." She breathes and it sounds almost like a hum as her voice fades from the phone. She has no idea how her sexy little moans drive me wild.
"When do you think you'll get out of there today?" I ask; but, I know it will be later than she'd like. The time on my computer monitor reads three o'clock. I know her biggest rush still lies ahead of her—from women who come to the shop after work.
"I don't know. We were crazy from about eleven this morning until now. I wonder how many more people need to shop?" She’s turned up the drama in her voice; it makes me smile.
"Hopefully it won't be too bad, baby. I'm sorry to say, but I really need to go, Laken. I'm swamped here."
"Don't be sorry, I know you're busy, I just wanted to check in... I haven't seen you since you were naked in our shower this morning." I can hear the wickedness in her tone and can see her eyebrow arching in most seductive way. "You've left me with naughty thoughts all day," she confesses.
"Mmmh, baby, don't do this to me at work. I'll see you tonight and we'll spark up a little romance on this Valentine's Day."
"I love you, Gage," there’s a smile in her voice.
"I love you too, baby, bye."
*****
Part Two—Early in the Evening...
~Laken~
Rainne sits at the desk, balancing the sales numbers with her glasses perched near the tip of her nose. "Well, Laken, this is the best Valentine's Week sales we've had in three years. We're up twenty percent compared to last year and that was a fantastic year. It's crazy!"
"It is," I offer, from the sofa where I'm stretched out. "I couldn't be happier; well, maybe I could, if I were in my bed. I'm beat." I hear Rainne giggle as she agrees that she feels the same way. "Do you and Ryan have any plans for tonight?"
"Nothing crazy, just a quiet evening at home. We went out for a romantic dinner last night at Spring House Vineyard. Ryan reserved a secluded table in the wine cellar, it was incredible." Her disclosure is enough to make me open my eyes and look in her direction.
"That's awesome, Rainne." I smile at her and she blushes. "That husband of yours is a class act," I add with a wink, before turning my head and closing my eyes again.
"What about you, plans tonight?" She asks while locking up the safe.
"No, Gage has a late dinner meeting." Enthusiasm is clearly absent from my tone.
"That sucks," Rainne states matter of factly. This lover's holiday kind of fizzles when it's not on a weekend.
"Nah, it's fine. Gage said we'll romance up Valentine's Day when he gets home. I don't need a 'day,' I just need Gage. And I have that, every day." Rainne agrees and throws my coat at me. I guess it's time to go home. Finally.
*****
As I shut the door from the garage into the house, I realize it's not as dark as it normally is. "Oh, shit!" The words fall from my lips as I realize the fireplace is on. I rush through the kitchen to the living room, hating myself for forgetting to turn it off this morning and for Gage being too rushed to notice it was burning. I come to the entry way and stop dead in my tracks.
"Hey, gorgeous." Gage raises his champagne glass to me with a nod and a wink.
"Wha— What are— When did— How—" My eyes sting with tears. "The flowers. There’re so many." Gage sits his glass down on the small round linen covered table which is positioned in front of our fire place. He saunters toward me in low-slung, washed-out, ripped jeans and a black, v-neck t-shirt. His long dark hair is still damp from a shower.
My bag slips from my shoulder as he approaches, slipping his fingers into my hair as he cups my face before closing his mouth over mine. Our kiss simmers with heat and passion but quickly becomes intense as the urgency we feel heightens. Gage drags his lips from mine while kneading my scalp with his fingers.
"No questions now. Go freshen up, dinner will be here in twenty minutes."
"Where's your car?" I ask quickly walking toward the stairs.
"Next door. This wouldn't have been such a surprise if you saw my car, right? Now, go!"
*****
After a quick soak, I take Gage's lead and dress comfortably, wearing a soft, black, off the shoulder sweatshirt tunic. I softly pad barefoot down the stairs stopping half way when the aroma of roses and the sight of the man sitting among them catch my senses.
There are vases of roses on every piece of furniture, littering the floor and trailing up the stairs. The table looks stunning with flickering tapers, flowers, white and red linens, crystal stemware and silver cloches covering the china.
"I thought you had a meeting," I call out, getting Gage's attention as I continue into the living room. "Please don't stand," I command as I arrive at the table. He doesn't listen and pulls out my chair. The consummate gentleman.
"Well," he pours my champagne, "there was a conflict of interest on my calendar. One item—was my meeting with O'Donnell. The second—and most important—was one that could not be rescheduled and required my undivided attention." Gage sits down and reaches his goblet toward the center of the table, "Happy Valentine's Day, Laken."
"To us," while our crystal glasses sing in agreement, I feel the bubbly dance down my throat before continuing, "you canceled your meeting to be home with me tonight?"
"Yes. Laken, it's our first Valentine's Day together. I'm a big believer in everyday being Valentine's Day. But I also have a lot of missed Valentine's Days to make up for. You deserve every bit of romance that can fit into every single day, and I'll spend my life giving it to you."
Sometimes there just aren't words. This is one of them. I'm completely in love with and swept away by this beautiful man. We continue with light conversation while we enjoy our five-star cuisine: balsamic glazed salmon, quinoa with Kalamata olives, kale and feta cheese and grilled asparagus. My taste buds are in euphoria.
"There’s another piece to the story," Gage adds. "O'Donnell never even traveled here and was going to cancel on me anyway... I didn't know and canceled on him first. Turns out they got pounded with a winter storm and he couldn't even get out of Indianapolis."
"I'm thrilled the events played out like this. I just don't understand how you were able to pull this off. You didn't have it planned, did you?"
"No!" Gage laughs and tells me that he left the office early this afternoon after he confirmed that Spring House could accommodate a dinner delivery and set-up. Then he visited every florist and grocery store to get as many flowers as he could. I’m mesmerized by his thoughtfulness and sincerity. I know I’m the most important thing in his life and he doesn’t let me forget it.
After clearing the dishes, we nestle on the sofa, sipping champagne. "Thank you. Thank you for all of this." I mean every single word from the bottom of my heart.
"You're welcome, baby, but the night isn't over." Gage smiles and I grin wickedly. He points to the table and only then do I notice the tiny black velvet box.
"Gage," I whisper in awe, “you didn't need to get me anything, what you've done is amazing." Gage picks up the box, faces me and takes my left hand in his moving his thumb over the ring he put on my finger several months earlier.
"Laken, when I proposed, I didn't think about it for more than the moment in which I decided that I had to. I knew there was no one else for me but you. It was a coincidence that when I went to see my mother, she chose that moment to pass this ring—this family heirloom—to me. I was honored to give it to you and I'm thrilled that you love it. One day, I hope, we'll have a son or daughter to pass it on to. A tradition they'll carry on with their children, and their children's children..." Gage slides the ring from my finger, holding it up between us. "This ring was here before us and it will be here long after us. And it will hold the story and love of the forever hearts who have shared it." I watch as he carefully sets the ring on the table. He smiles and softly kisses my lips. "This," he places the box in my hand, "is yours."
Part Three—Late in the Evening…
~Gage~
I wait with bated breath, as she begins to open the box, noticing the slight tremble in her hands.
"Gage," escapes her lips before she covers her lips with her fingers.
"Do you like it?" I ask, feeling almost silly waiting to hear what she thinks of the brilliant, round stone set on a thin, platinum band of diamonds. She lifts her eyes, shiny with happiness, to mine while nodding her head. I take the ring from the box before taking her hand back in mine and sliding the ring onto her finger. "I'm yours, Laken. Forever. I can't wait to walk down the aisle with you." She leaps across the short distance between us, wrapping herself around me.
"I can't wait either," she mumbles with her face buried in my neck. She relaxes her grasp on me and kisses me softly on my lips. "Autumn can't get here soon enough."
"I know, it'll come quickly though." I put the heirloom into the box and place it on the table. "We'll be building our house of dreams during the spring and summer." I settle back onto the sofa as Laken snuggles against me.
"Yes! Then after we say 'I do,' we can get started on making that son or daughter." Laken says as she nibbles on my neck playfully.
"Baby, we can at least practice—now," I whisper as she drives me crazy biting at my neck.
"Oh!" She moves away from me and I miss her touch immediately. "I have something for you, too! It's upstairs. Let's just turn off the lights, I don't think we'll be coming back down." We make our way upstairs and Lake instructs me to sit on the bed. She turns on the soft rope lighting in the tray ceiling and stands just in front of me at my knees.
"What's my present?" I ask and hope like hell she'll be taking my jeans off, they're more than a little uncomfortable since she was licking and biting my neck. She looks so sexy with her shoulder bare and glowing skin. I've wanted to be inside her since I woke up. She reaches for the hem of her long sweatshirt pulling it over her head. My blood rushes and it feels like fire burning in my veins. "Fuck, you bought them!" She backs away sashaying her sweet ass in these ultra-sexy panties that tie onto her luscious body.
"Yes, I did. My sinfully sexy fiancé saw them and said he'd like me to offer him my body wrapped only in these panties. And I thought, I can certainly oblige. Only I didn't have anything to wear with them, but he came through and found the perfect accessory."
Laken holds up her hand waving her fingers around. She looks at her ring and smiles sweetly before her smile becomes something different—an invitation. I stand up and watch her as she moves to the other side of the bed. She's wearing the red lace and silk panties, her ring and nothing else. She crawls onto the bed—slowly stretching and twisting—until she's on her back. She arches and her skin washes with goose bumps.
"Happy Valentine's Day, baby," she whispers in her seductive, breathy voice.
I remove my t-shirt and drop my zipper, and I'm naked in five seconds. Lake spreads her thighs and I kneel between them, pulling one red tie with my teeth, then the other, before tugging the fabric from under her. I worship every spot of her body with my mouth. I lick, kiss, bite, suck and touch—everywhere. Her body is the catalyst for my pleasure. The frenzy inside me builds while I watch her riding me. She's facing away from me and her ass drives me wild. I urge her forward onto her hands and knees, powerfully pumping into her from behind until we both fall gloriously over the edge—once again—in blinding passion. As we lay sated and sleepy and tangled together, it's impossible to tell where she stops and I begin. I'm in her and she's in me and we have forever in our hearts.
© 2017 Victoria Monroe
Victoria Monroe
A Holding on Forever Valentine's Day
February 14, 2017
Part One—Early in the Morning...
~Gage~
The alarm clock sounds more like a thumping bass drum next to the bed and less like an annoying beep. Turning it off, I slide my arm back underneath the warm shelter of the plush duvet, nestling into my soft, thick pillows, quickly slipping back into a deep sleep.
*****
When I booked this slope side suite at the ski resort, I knew my feet would never be strapped in skis the entire weekend. The sight of her body, barely drizzled in seductive red lace, writhing against the stark white sheets, is the perfect wrapping to the only Valentine's Day present I need. Laken. She curls her sexy finger, in a come-hither sort of way. I stretch out next to her on the bed and she leans over me, her hot breath dancing across my skin as she presses her plump lips softly to my cheek and whispers, "Baby... Gage... Come on... Gage..." Finally, as I turn my head to search for her sweet mouth... "GAGE! COME ON! You're going to be late."
*****
Her panicked exclamation temporarily hides her sultry tone, and it startles me. "What?!" I sit up quickly, realizing the room is lighter than it should be for six o'clock in the morning. Laken is obviously showered, dressed and perfectly styled looking delectable, in a snug fitting pencil skirt and sexy red blouse with black leather boots which cover her knees. "Damn baby, you look incredible," I compliment her as I begin to wipe sleep from my face and slide my fingers through my hair in an effort to tame the effects of the pillow. "I never heard the alarm, what time is it?"
"You did hear it. You turned it off," Laken scolds. "You're going to be late. It's five after seven."
"What? Damnit! I have a meeting at eight-thirty."
I know. Get moving. I'll fix you coffee and leave it on the island with some fruit. I'm going to the shop early. After all, it's Valentine's Day and there will undoubtedly be swarms of last-minute-ladies seeking the perfect sexy outfit and lingerie for their romantic evenings.
"Baby, I'm sorry our romantic weekend at the resort didn't happen and I feel so badly we can't spend any time together today."
"It's alright. There are two extremely wonderful, amazing, perfect reasons why we didn't go." Laken smiles brightly and her eyes shine.
"I know," I assure her as I stand and wrap my arms around her on my way into the bathroom. "But I'm haunted by not spending the past two days whispering sweet nothings in your ear while I make love to every inch of this gorgeous body. I was even dreaming about it just now."
"Well, dream boy, time is ticking. You need to get moving... I'll see you tonight after your dinner meeting." Lake kisses me quickly on the lips before I step into the shower.
*****
The day is busy. It's been one thing after another and I'm not surprised to see it's already past noon. I sent a message to Austen, the office manager, almost an hour ago, to set up a phone call with Robert O'Donnell as soon as possible. He’s the CEO of the natural gas company, in Indiana, we’re building the new plant for in Pittsburgh. Damn, why does he have to be traveling today?
"Excuse me, Gage," Austen speaks through the intercom, "I have Mr. O'Donnell on the line, I'll connect you now."
"Thanks, Austen." I take a deep breath before pressing the button next to the blinking red light. "Good afternoon, Gage Scott. Yes, hello, Robert. I hope you and your family are doing well. Yes, they are, Robert, thank you. Everyone is great! It was a hectic weekend, but everything turned out perfect. Robert, the reason I called was to discuss our meeting this evening. I'm afraid I need to cancel, sir. I apologize for the inconvenience but I have another extremely pressing matter that requires my direct attention and it cannot be put off. I'm willing to make any other arrangements necessary. Perhaps I can travel to Indianapolis later this week and meet you at your office? Oh, I didn't realize. It's a good thing you never got out. Well, I suppose this was a 'perfect storm' so to speak. Alright, Robert, next week it is. I'll have Austen coordinate with your office to set it up. Thank you. You too, goodbye."
Just when I feel as though a thousand pounds has been lifted from my shoulders, a whole new wave of stress washes over me.
"Austen, I need to see you in my office right away."
*****
"Hey, baby!" Hearing her sultry, breathy voice on the phone still gets me every time. Every. Damn. Time. It's different from when we're together, I can see her, touch her, taste her. But over the phone, her seductive voice makes my heart thump and my blood rush. I ache to see her.
"Hey, gorgeous, how's your day going?"
"My feet are killing me." She breathes and it sounds almost like a hum as her voice fades from the phone. She has no idea how her sexy little moans drive me wild.
"When do you think you'll get out of there today?" I ask; but, I know it will be later than she'd like. The time on my computer monitor reads three o'clock. I know her biggest rush still lies ahead of her—from women who come to the shop after work.
"I don't know. We were crazy from about eleven this morning until now. I wonder how many more people need to shop?" She’s turned up the drama in her voice; it makes me smile.
"Hopefully it won't be too bad, baby. I'm sorry to say, but I really need to go, Laken. I'm swamped here."
"Don't be sorry, I know you're busy, I just wanted to check in... I haven't seen you since you were naked in our shower this morning." I can hear the wickedness in her tone and can see her eyebrow arching in most seductive way. "You've left me with naughty thoughts all day," she confesses.
"Mmmh, baby, don't do this to me at work. I'll see you tonight and we'll spark up a little romance on this Valentine's Day."
"I love you, Gage," there’s a smile in her voice.
"I love you too, baby, bye."
*****
Part Two—Early in the Evening...
~Laken~
Rainne sits at the desk, balancing the sales numbers with her glasses perched near the tip of her nose. "Well, Laken, this is the best Valentine's Week sales we've had in three years. We're up twenty percent compared to last year and that was a fantastic year. It's crazy!"
"It is," I offer, from the sofa where I'm stretched out. "I couldn't be happier; well, maybe I could, if I were in my bed. I'm beat." I hear Rainne giggle as she agrees that she feels the same way. "Do you and Ryan have any plans for tonight?"
"Nothing crazy, just a quiet evening at home. We went out for a romantic dinner last night at Spring House Vineyard. Ryan reserved a secluded table in the wine cellar, it was incredible." Her disclosure is enough to make me open my eyes and look in her direction.
"That's awesome, Rainne." I smile at her and she blushes. "That husband of yours is a class act," I add with a wink, before turning my head and closing my eyes again.
"What about you, plans tonight?" She asks while locking up the safe.
"No, Gage has a late dinner meeting." Enthusiasm is clearly absent from my tone.
"That sucks," Rainne states matter of factly. This lover's holiday kind of fizzles when it's not on a weekend.
"Nah, it's fine. Gage said we'll romance up Valentine's Day when he gets home. I don't need a 'day,' I just need Gage. And I have that, every day." Rainne agrees and throws my coat at me. I guess it's time to go home. Finally.
*****
As I shut the door from the garage into the house, I realize it's not as dark as it normally is. "Oh, shit!" The words fall from my lips as I realize the fireplace is on. I rush through the kitchen to the living room, hating myself for forgetting to turn it off this morning and for Gage being too rushed to notice it was burning. I come to the entry way and stop dead in my tracks.
"Hey, gorgeous." Gage raises his champagne glass to me with a nod and a wink.
"Wha— What are— When did— How—" My eyes sting with tears. "The flowers. There’re so many." Gage sits his glass down on the small round linen covered table which is positioned in front of our fire place. He saunters toward me in low-slung, washed-out, ripped jeans and a black, v-neck t-shirt. His long dark hair is still damp from a shower.
My bag slips from my shoulder as he approaches, slipping his fingers into my hair as he cups my face before closing his mouth over mine. Our kiss simmers with heat and passion but quickly becomes intense as the urgency we feel heightens. Gage drags his lips from mine while kneading my scalp with his fingers.
"No questions now. Go freshen up, dinner will be here in twenty minutes."
"Where's your car?" I ask quickly walking toward the stairs.
"Next door. This wouldn't have been such a surprise if you saw my car, right? Now, go!"
*****
After a quick soak, I take Gage's lead and dress comfortably, wearing a soft, black, off the shoulder sweatshirt tunic. I softly pad barefoot down the stairs stopping half way when the aroma of roses and the sight of the man sitting among them catch my senses.
There are vases of roses on every piece of furniture, littering the floor and trailing up the stairs. The table looks stunning with flickering tapers, flowers, white and red linens, crystal stemware and silver cloches covering the china.
"I thought you had a meeting," I call out, getting Gage's attention as I continue into the living room. "Please don't stand," I command as I arrive at the table. He doesn't listen and pulls out my chair. The consummate gentleman.
"Well," he pours my champagne, "there was a conflict of interest on my calendar. One item—was my meeting with O'Donnell. The second—and most important—was one that could not be rescheduled and required my undivided attention." Gage sits down and reaches his goblet toward the center of the table, "Happy Valentine's Day, Laken."
"To us," while our crystal glasses sing in agreement, I feel the bubbly dance down my throat before continuing, "you canceled your meeting to be home with me tonight?"
"Yes. Laken, it's our first Valentine's Day together. I'm a big believer in everyday being Valentine's Day. But I also have a lot of missed Valentine's Days to make up for. You deserve every bit of romance that can fit into every single day, and I'll spend my life giving it to you."
Sometimes there just aren't words. This is one of them. I'm completely in love with and swept away by this beautiful man. We continue with light conversation while we enjoy our five-star cuisine: balsamic glazed salmon, quinoa with Kalamata olives, kale and feta cheese and grilled asparagus. My taste buds are in euphoria.
"There’s another piece to the story," Gage adds. "O'Donnell never even traveled here and was going to cancel on me anyway... I didn't know and canceled on him first. Turns out they got pounded with a winter storm and he couldn't even get out of Indianapolis."
"I'm thrilled the events played out like this. I just don't understand how you were able to pull this off. You didn't have it planned, did you?"
"No!" Gage laughs and tells me that he left the office early this afternoon after he confirmed that Spring House could accommodate a dinner delivery and set-up. Then he visited every florist and grocery store to get as many flowers as he could. I’m mesmerized by his thoughtfulness and sincerity. I know I’m the most important thing in his life and he doesn’t let me forget it.
After clearing the dishes, we nestle on the sofa, sipping champagne. "Thank you. Thank you for all of this." I mean every single word from the bottom of my heart.
"You're welcome, baby, but the night isn't over." Gage smiles and I grin wickedly. He points to the table and only then do I notice the tiny black velvet box.
"Gage," I whisper in awe, “you didn't need to get me anything, what you've done is amazing." Gage picks up the box, faces me and takes my left hand in his moving his thumb over the ring he put on my finger several months earlier.
"Laken, when I proposed, I didn't think about it for more than the moment in which I decided that I had to. I knew there was no one else for me but you. It was a coincidence that when I went to see my mother, she chose that moment to pass this ring—this family heirloom—to me. I was honored to give it to you and I'm thrilled that you love it. One day, I hope, we'll have a son or daughter to pass it on to. A tradition they'll carry on with their children, and their children's children..." Gage slides the ring from my finger, holding it up between us. "This ring was here before us and it will be here long after us. And it will hold the story and love of the forever hearts who have shared it." I watch as he carefully sets the ring on the table. He smiles and softly kisses my lips. "This," he places the box in my hand, "is yours."
Part Three—Late in the Evening…
~Gage~
I wait with bated breath, as she begins to open the box, noticing the slight tremble in her hands.
"Gage," escapes her lips before she covers her lips with her fingers.
"Do you like it?" I ask, feeling almost silly waiting to hear what she thinks of the brilliant, round stone set on a thin, platinum band of diamonds. She lifts her eyes, shiny with happiness, to mine while nodding her head. I take the ring from the box before taking her hand back in mine and sliding the ring onto her finger. "I'm yours, Laken. Forever. I can't wait to walk down the aisle with you." She leaps across the short distance between us, wrapping herself around me.
"I can't wait either," she mumbles with her face buried in my neck. She relaxes her grasp on me and kisses me softly on my lips. "Autumn can't get here soon enough."
"I know, it'll come quickly though." I put the heirloom into the box and place it on the table. "We'll be building our house of dreams during the spring and summer." I settle back onto the sofa as Laken snuggles against me.
"Yes! Then after we say 'I do,' we can get started on making that son or daughter." Laken says as she nibbles on my neck playfully.
"Baby, we can at least practice—now," I whisper as she drives me crazy biting at my neck.
"Oh!" She moves away from me and I miss her touch immediately. "I have something for you, too! It's upstairs. Let's just turn off the lights, I don't think we'll be coming back down." We make our way upstairs and Lake instructs me to sit on the bed. She turns on the soft rope lighting in the tray ceiling and stands just in front of me at my knees.
"What's my present?" I ask and hope like hell she'll be taking my jeans off, they're more than a little uncomfortable since she was licking and biting my neck. She looks so sexy with her shoulder bare and glowing skin. I've wanted to be inside her since I woke up. She reaches for the hem of her long sweatshirt pulling it over her head. My blood rushes and it feels like fire burning in my veins. "Fuck, you bought them!" She backs away sashaying her sweet ass in these ultra-sexy panties that tie onto her luscious body.
"Yes, I did. My sinfully sexy fiancé saw them and said he'd like me to offer him my body wrapped only in these panties. And I thought, I can certainly oblige. Only I didn't have anything to wear with them, but he came through and found the perfect accessory."
Laken holds up her hand waving her fingers around. She looks at her ring and smiles sweetly before her smile becomes something different—an invitation. I stand up and watch her as she moves to the other side of the bed. She's wearing the red lace and silk panties, her ring and nothing else. She crawls onto the bed—slowly stretching and twisting—until she's on her back. She arches and her skin washes with goose bumps.
"Happy Valentine's Day, baby," she whispers in her seductive, breathy voice.
I remove my t-shirt and drop my zipper, and I'm naked in five seconds. Lake spreads her thighs and I kneel between them, pulling one red tie with my teeth, then the other, before tugging the fabric from under her. I worship every spot of her body with my mouth. I lick, kiss, bite, suck and touch—everywhere. Her body is the catalyst for my pleasure. The frenzy inside me builds while I watch her riding me. She's facing away from me and her ass drives me wild. I urge her forward onto her hands and knees, powerfully pumping into her from behind until we both fall gloriously over the edge—once again—in blinding passion. As we lay sated and sleepy and tangled together, it's impossible to tell where she stops and I begin. I'm in her and she's in me and we have forever in our hearts.
© 2017 Victoria Monroe
Victoria Monroe
December 12, 2016
CHAPTER ONE ~ FALLING FOREVER
Chapter One
~EMERSON~
Walking up to my front porch, I feel tired, restless, angry and just deflated knowing Ashe is with Brinley. Most of all, I feel foolish for thinking he wanted me. I just want this night to be over.
I’m not the woman who sits around waiting for a man. I’m not the woman who doubts herself because of a man. I started to become that woman. Questioning myself. No more. I’m not the woman who makes her choices based on pleasing a man. Ashe made his choice. It’s not me. He’s probably fucking Brinley right now. I hope for his
sake, it’s good. I can’t deny or ignore the intense desire we share. The want we pique in each other. If Brinley is on the receiving end of what I only had a taste of, she may need some time off work. If Ashe
chooses her to unleash it on, so be it. He’s proven being co-workers is only an excuse. Now I know it’s all bullshit.
So long, Ashe Bennett.
“I had a nice evening, Killian. It was nice getting to know you over the last thirty-six hours. I’d like to keep in touch; I think we could be really good friends.”
“I’d like that too, Emerson. I enjoyed being able to talk to someone. You make opening up incredibly easy.” I don’t think anyone gives Killian a chance. Maybe he’s different with me since, from the moment we met, he knew he didn’t need to try to impress me. It was clear we would be friends. Nothing more. We had a great time yesterday having coffee and talking to each other about so
many things.
“You’re easy to talk to as well. Don’t be a stranger.” I’m looking forward to getting to know him better and I’m glad he feels the same way.
“I won’t be a stranger. Your street is part of the route I jog every morning. I’ll be sure to stop by for coffee.” He offers me a wink.
“You’re crazy running guy?” I look at him bewildered. He’s the guy I always see running in any temperature or weather conditions. I’ve never had an encounter with him.
“I don’t know, am I ‘crazy running guy?’” Bless his heart, he’s confused.
“Killian!” I laugh aloud at the oddity of the whole situation. “I’ve been ogling you since I’ve moved here from Ohio nearly a year ago. I always catch glimpses of crazy running guy and think he’s sexy and
wonder what he’s like. Here you are!”
Killian shares in my enthusiasm at the strange coincidence and is more than ready to wrap his arms around me as I fall into him, hastily placing my arms around his lean, muscular body, as if we’ve
known each other forever and haven’t seen one another in a long time.
“Who could have imagined that crazy running guy would turn out to be your new best friend?” Killian chuckles with delight.
Just as I’m about to agree, because we truly are becoming very good friends, a motorcycle coming down the street at a very slow pace revs up and shoots into the darkness with a deafening rumble
of thunder. Silencing me.
“Oh my God!” I raise my hand and grab my chest as I nearly jump out of my skin.
“Holy shit!” Killian whips his head in the direction of the ruckus. People don’t have any goddamned respect. This is a residential area and far too late to be showboating. Are you okay?” He caresses my
cheek with his thumb, his eyes intently searching mine for any signs of distress.
Killian is protective and I find it completely attractive. I wish I could see protectiveness in Ashe. I don’t. It’s just not there. He’s just a playboy. All he wants is a different piece of ass. I thought maybe
I could make him want more. I thought he wanted more from me. Boy, was I wrong.
“Emerson, are you okay?”
“Oh, Killian, yes. I’m okay. Forgive me. It’s late, I think I better turn in for the night. Thank you for a lovely evening.”
“The pleasure was all mine. I’m looking forward to seeing you again, Em. I like the friendship we’ve started.”
“Me too. Who knows, maybe I’ll join you for a run some morning. We’ll just need to sync up our schedules when we can.”
“That would be great; crazy running guy would love the company.” He extends his arms and smiles brightly. He makes me laugh; I like that about him.
Killian kisses my cheek and waits until I’m inside before walking to his sporty car parked on the street at the end of my sidewalk. After locking the doors, I immediately shed my heels and my gown.
The gala was fun and I enjoyed myself, but it’s time to put this day and everything in it behind me. I can barely reach the bottle of tequila on the shelf. But man, do I need it. I fetch a shot glass and get the cut limes from the fridge. One. Two. Three. What the hell… Five. Wait, four. That should help wash away Ashe and let me sleep without creating haunting images in my mind of the way his evening is unfolding with Brinley.
The heat of my bath water relaxes me; tequila helps with that too. I’m playing my Maroon 5 playlist and She Will Be Loved pleasantly drowns out the silence. I can’t take quiet now. I can take Adam Levine now. As the water drains, Harder to Breathe plays and
I rub coconut oil onto my damp skin and into my hair.
CRASH!
My heart pounds in my ears. What was that sound?
I quickly go to the small safe in my closet and load my Ruger .38 Special. I may be a hopeless romantic and good hearted, but I’m not a fucking damsel in distress.
The shadow casts across my living room and crosses my body as I stand motionless on the stairs. The trespasser is obviously male. His shoulders are broad and he’s tall, his head is near the top of the
window.
“206 Lexington Avenue. I’m fine. I have my eyes on him and I have my sight on him. I understand I have the right to protect myself if he enters my home. Yes, I’ll stay on the line. I’m putting the phone
down. I need both hands.”
Come on, you son of a bitch… Try me. My vision is momentarily taken by the piercing brilliance of a spotlight shining through the window. I don’t flinch.
“POLICE. Put your hands above your head. Now. Hands in the air.”
The amplified commands of the police have dogs barking all over this quiet Pittsburgh suburb.
I relax as I see the shadows of ten fingers being brought into restraint behind the trespasser’s back.
A gentle knock at the door, and finally I lower the draw of my pistol.
Only then, do my hands begin to shake.
“Ma’am. It’s Officer Riggins, Pittsburgh PD. You’re safe.”
Falling Forever
~EMERSON~
Walking up to my front porch, I feel tired, restless, angry and just deflated knowing Ashe is with Brinley. Most of all, I feel foolish for thinking he wanted me. I just want this night to be over.
I’m not the woman who sits around waiting for a man. I’m not the woman who doubts herself because of a man. I started to become that woman. Questioning myself. No more. I’m not the woman who makes her choices based on pleasing a man. Ashe made his choice. It’s not me. He’s probably fucking Brinley right now. I hope for his
sake, it’s good. I can’t deny or ignore the intense desire we share. The want we pique in each other. If Brinley is on the receiving end of what I only had a taste of, she may need some time off work. If Ashe
chooses her to unleash it on, so be it. He’s proven being co-workers is only an excuse. Now I know it’s all bullshit.
So long, Ashe Bennett.
“I had a nice evening, Killian. It was nice getting to know you over the last thirty-six hours. I’d like to keep in touch; I think we could be really good friends.”
“I’d like that too, Emerson. I enjoyed being able to talk to someone. You make opening up incredibly easy.” I don’t think anyone gives Killian a chance. Maybe he’s different with me since, from the moment we met, he knew he didn’t need to try to impress me. It was clear we would be friends. Nothing more. We had a great time yesterday having coffee and talking to each other about so
many things.
“You’re easy to talk to as well. Don’t be a stranger.” I’m looking forward to getting to know him better and I’m glad he feels the same way.
“I won’t be a stranger. Your street is part of the route I jog every morning. I’ll be sure to stop by for coffee.” He offers me a wink.
“You’re crazy running guy?” I look at him bewildered. He’s the guy I always see running in any temperature or weather conditions. I’ve never had an encounter with him.
“I don’t know, am I ‘crazy running guy?’” Bless his heart, he’s confused.
“Killian!” I laugh aloud at the oddity of the whole situation. “I’ve been ogling you since I’ve moved here from Ohio nearly a year ago. I always catch glimpses of crazy running guy and think he’s sexy and
wonder what he’s like. Here you are!”
Killian shares in my enthusiasm at the strange coincidence and is more than ready to wrap his arms around me as I fall into him, hastily placing my arms around his lean, muscular body, as if we’ve
known each other forever and haven’t seen one another in a long time.
“Who could have imagined that crazy running guy would turn out to be your new best friend?” Killian chuckles with delight.
Just as I’m about to agree, because we truly are becoming very good friends, a motorcycle coming down the street at a very slow pace revs up and shoots into the darkness with a deafening rumble
of thunder. Silencing me.
“Oh my God!” I raise my hand and grab my chest as I nearly jump out of my skin.
“Holy shit!” Killian whips his head in the direction of the ruckus. People don’t have any goddamned respect. This is a residential area and far too late to be showboating. Are you okay?” He caresses my
cheek with his thumb, his eyes intently searching mine for any signs of distress.
Killian is protective and I find it completely attractive. I wish I could see protectiveness in Ashe. I don’t. It’s just not there. He’s just a playboy. All he wants is a different piece of ass. I thought maybe
I could make him want more. I thought he wanted more from me. Boy, was I wrong.
“Emerson, are you okay?”
“Oh, Killian, yes. I’m okay. Forgive me. It’s late, I think I better turn in for the night. Thank you for a lovely evening.”
“The pleasure was all mine. I’m looking forward to seeing you again, Em. I like the friendship we’ve started.”
“Me too. Who knows, maybe I’ll join you for a run some morning. We’ll just need to sync up our schedules when we can.”
“That would be great; crazy running guy would love the company.” He extends his arms and smiles brightly. He makes me laugh; I like that about him.
Killian kisses my cheek and waits until I’m inside before walking to his sporty car parked on the street at the end of my sidewalk. After locking the doors, I immediately shed my heels and my gown.
The gala was fun and I enjoyed myself, but it’s time to put this day and everything in it behind me. I can barely reach the bottle of tequila on the shelf. But man, do I need it. I fetch a shot glass and get the cut limes from the fridge. One. Two. Three. What the hell… Five. Wait, four. That should help wash away Ashe and let me sleep without creating haunting images in my mind of the way his evening is unfolding with Brinley.
The heat of my bath water relaxes me; tequila helps with that too. I’m playing my Maroon 5 playlist and She Will Be Loved pleasantly drowns out the silence. I can’t take quiet now. I can take Adam Levine now. As the water drains, Harder to Breathe plays and
I rub coconut oil onto my damp skin and into my hair.
CRASH!
My heart pounds in my ears. What was that sound?
I quickly go to the small safe in my closet and load my Ruger .38 Special. I may be a hopeless romantic and good hearted, but I’m not a fucking damsel in distress.
The shadow casts across my living room and crosses my body as I stand motionless on the stairs. The trespasser is obviously male. His shoulders are broad and he’s tall, his head is near the top of the
window.
“206 Lexington Avenue. I’m fine. I have my eyes on him and I have my sight on him. I understand I have the right to protect myself if he enters my home. Yes, I’ll stay on the line. I’m putting the phone
down. I need both hands.”
Come on, you son of a bitch… Try me. My vision is momentarily taken by the piercing brilliance of a spotlight shining through the window. I don’t flinch.
“POLICE. Put your hands above your head. Now. Hands in the air.”
The amplified commands of the police have dogs barking all over this quiet Pittsburgh suburb.
I relax as I see the shadows of ten fingers being brought into restraint behind the trespasser’s back.
A gentle knock at the door, and finally I lower the draw of my pistol.
Only then, do my hands begin to shake.
“Ma’am. It’s Officer Riggins, Pittsburgh PD. You’re safe.”
Falling Forever
December 7, 2016
PROLOGUE from FALLING FOREVER
PROLOGUE
~EMERSON~
"Can you try to relax a little bit; you seem to be getting more tense?"
Maya's voice is very calm and soft.
This dim lighting. The soft trickling sound of water. The delicate sounds of string music. The relaxing smell of lavender and mint. These constant caresses. The bareness. It's extremely hard for me to relax in a situation which has me feeling completely uncomfortable.
"I'm sorry. I've never had a massage before. My friends, Laken and Rainne, insisted on a spa day. Is it odd that I feel so anxious?" Maya, an attractive olive-skinned woman, dressed in her black, snug-fitting uniform pants and short-sleeved blouse, smiles sweetly at my question. Her long dark hair is tucked artfully and professionally into a tight chignon.
"Not at all, Emerson, especially when it's your first time. I want this experience to be as wonderful as it can be for you. Something that can help you relax is for you to talk. Perhaps, if you just tell me a little bit about yourself, you'll get lost in your own thoughts. Maybe tell me about a memory you have, tell me about the kind of person you are, your likes, your interests, even where you're from. Often clients become lost to those thoughts, making the massage much more effective at relaxing their tense bodies. I have clients who don't speak a word. I have clients who talk to me about everything and anything. I have clients who fall asleep. And sometimes, I have clients who need help relaxing to become comfortable with the massage process. You need to do whatever it is to make you feel comfortable so that this is a pleasurable experience for you. I'm happy to listen and talk with you."
"Okay, Maya. Let's see…
"I'm twenty-five years old. I grew up in small-town Ohio. The biggest accolades my hometown boasts are a great community park with an awesome public pool and being relatively close to Lake Erie. Oh, yeah, we had one of our own become a contestant on American Idol a few years ago. She didn't make it past Hollywood week, but she's still a superstar in my small town. I'm an only child."
Well, not really.
"My parents, Jake and Melyn Parker, own a country décor and handcrafted furniture store, it's called Crossroads Mercantile. It's amazing the success they achieve selling the furniture my dad builds. Since my mom loves to decorate, it's not too much like work for either of them. I grew up in the store, working there long before I legally should have. But, it wasn't work; it was home. The fragrances of mulled cider, fresh lumber and apple dumplings perfumed my life. They soothe me.
"After I graduated from college with a bachelor's degree in business management, I went back home and worked at the store. The intention was to stay only until I found a career. Before I knew it, two years passed by and I was still at the store.
"My interests are wide and varied. I love decorating and running the store with my mom. I have so many memories of antiquing and going on buys with her. I was lucky to get a part-time job working in my friend Laken's boutique. It makes me feel at home even though it's women's fashion and not interior design. Time with my dad includes target shooting and watching football. I miss them and I'm so looking forward to going home tomorrow for our annual Father's Day cookout. My dad, he's the enemy to many of his friends during football season." I chuckle.
"Why is that?" Maya asks with laughter in her voice too.
"Because we don't wear orange with any shade of brown or black at our house, like many other natives of Ohio. We're Steelers fans."
"I can understand the tension among your dad's circle of friends." Maya giggles.
"My dad and I usually get to a few Pittsburgh Steelers football games each season. Dad purchases tickets from season-ticket holders who sell a game or two. We wear our black and gold and take our prized Terrible Towels. We follow our traditional routine, which involves listening to the song Renegade by the rock group Styx more times than I care to count.
"Last year, Dad got tickets in an amazing spot. They were the best seats we ever had. I sat next to a middle-aged gentleman, who despite being old enough to be my dad, was incredibly handsome… I'd call him sexy."
"I like where this story is going," Maya chimes in, and I smile as I remember the day so vividly.
"I spilled my water when I reacted to a bad call, forgetting the cap was off the bottle. The water spilled on the handsome man beside me. He couldn't have been more gracious. I liked him immediately. He recognized we weren't Dr. Stone and his wife, the ticket holders for the seats we occupied. He asked where we were from before adding, 'By the way, my name is Ray Scott. And you are?'
"I placed my hand in the one Ray offered me. We kept up with small talk during halftime which resulted in Ray getting the entire Cliff's Notes version of my life to that moment.
"'Well, Emerson Parker, I really like you. I know a full-time office manager is different from a career in business management, but, I'd like to give you my card. I won't make any promises, but the way things are looking, there will be some executive changes made at the company soon and some career paths could become available. I know I need a new office manager sooner rather than later. I think you could be a great fit, Emerson. Please, take my card. Think about it. If you're interested, give me a call.' That's how I met Ray Scott. I'm still haunted by Ray's death. A heart attack took Ray away from us far too soon. It happened last month. I miss him every day."
"I'm so sorry to hear. I recall reading the articles in the newspaper. He was a prominent business man who did many great things." Maya seems genuinely sorry for our loss, and the community's loss. I agree with her.
"That was also the day I first met Ashe Bennett. I didn't notice when the man on the other side of Ray returned to his seat. The response by the crowd to the Renegade video halfway through the third quarter was electric. After the excitement of a defensive touchdown following a forced fumble, I was ready to pee in my pants. Ray stood to let me pass through; however, I tripped and stumbled into the man next to him. It all happened so fast. Suddenly, my nostrils were filled with the most amazing fragrance of cologne, my hands splayed out against a hard body and my eyes settled onto mossy green eyes. I watched as his pupils dilated before I lowered my gaze to his full parted lips.
"'Whoa, it's a good thing Ashe broke your fall, Emerson. He's a project director at Scott Construction. You'll get to know him very well.' Ray's eyes danced with delight at the idea of me working for him. I smiled and continued on my way to the ladies' room. By the time I finished, we intercepted again and led the Cleveland Browns by three touchdowns, with the momentum in our favor. I texted Dad and didn't bother returning to my seat. Somehow, a stroll along the river outside the stadium sounded much better, especially knowing the Steelers had a win locked up. That was the moment Ashe Bennett moved into my thoughts and he's still there.
"Since then, every encounter I've had with Ashe has gone nearly the same way—an intense flash of brilliant passion, then icy coldness…"
"How do you feel now, Emerson?" Maya's question pulls me from my thoughts.
"I feel incredible. Is the massage over?"
"Yes, Emerson, it is." Maya smiles warmly.
"I babbled on the whole time." I feel embarrassed for revealing so much to her.
"You did amazingly well; I think your massage was very effective. Your muscles relaxed significantly while you talked. I'll leave you alone now. You can lie here and continue to relax on the warmed mattress. Whenever you're ready, just get your robe and exit the room. You don't have to do anything; our staff will take care of the room after you depart. I enjoyed hearing so much about you, Emerson. And I'm looking forward to seeing you again."
"Thank you, Maya. I may have an addiction to massages because of you." We both share a laugh.
"I'm glad to hear that, Emerson. For what it's worth, there's a man from my past who used to look at me the same way Ashe looks at you. That man still looks at me that way, we've been married for sixteen years. I think you'll be okay." Maya smiles, winks and closes the door behind her.
Right. I may be okay, except for one big problem. What I see in Ashe's beautiful mossy green eyes compared to what he says and does—are two completely different things.
Falling Forever
~EMERSON~
"Can you try to relax a little bit; you seem to be getting more tense?"
Maya's voice is very calm and soft.
This dim lighting. The soft trickling sound of water. The delicate sounds of string music. The relaxing smell of lavender and mint. These constant caresses. The bareness. It's extremely hard for me to relax in a situation which has me feeling completely uncomfortable.
"I'm sorry. I've never had a massage before. My friends, Laken and Rainne, insisted on a spa day. Is it odd that I feel so anxious?" Maya, an attractive olive-skinned woman, dressed in her black, snug-fitting uniform pants and short-sleeved blouse, smiles sweetly at my question. Her long dark hair is tucked artfully and professionally into a tight chignon.
"Not at all, Emerson, especially when it's your first time. I want this experience to be as wonderful as it can be for you. Something that can help you relax is for you to talk. Perhaps, if you just tell me a little bit about yourself, you'll get lost in your own thoughts. Maybe tell me about a memory you have, tell me about the kind of person you are, your likes, your interests, even where you're from. Often clients become lost to those thoughts, making the massage much more effective at relaxing their tense bodies. I have clients who don't speak a word. I have clients who talk to me about everything and anything. I have clients who fall asleep. And sometimes, I have clients who need help relaxing to become comfortable with the massage process. You need to do whatever it is to make you feel comfortable so that this is a pleasurable experience for you. I'm happy to listen and talk with you."
"Okay, Maya. Let's see…
"I'm twenty-five years old. I grew up in small-town Ohio. The biggest accolades my hometown boasts are a great community park with an awesome public pool and being relatively close to Lake Erie. Oh, yeah, we had one of our own become a contestant on American Idol a few years ago. She didn't make it past Hollywood week, but she's still a superstar in my small town. I'm an only child."
Well, not really.
"My parents, Jake and Melyn Parker, own a country décor and handcrafted furniture store, it's called Crossroads Mercantile. It's amazing the success they achieve selling the furniture my dad builds. Since my mom loves to decorate, it's not too much like work for either of them. I grew up in the store, working there long before I legally should have. But, it wasn't work; it was home. The fragrances of mulled cider, fresh lumber and apple dumplings perfumed my life. They soothe me.
"After I graduated from college with a bachelor's degree in business management, I went back home and worked at the store. The intention was to stay only until I found a career. Before I knew it, two years passed by and I was still at the store.
"My interests are wide and varied. I love decorating and running the store with my mom. I have so many memories of antiquing and going on buys with her. I was lucky to get a part-time job working in my friend Laken's boutique. It makes me feel at home even though it's women's fashion and not interior design. Time with my dad includes target shooting and watching football. I miss them and I'm so looking forward to going home tomorrow for our annual Father's Day cookout. My dad, he's the enemy to many of his friends during football season." I chuckle.
"Why is that?" Maya asks with laughter in her voice too.
"Because we don't wear orange with any shade of brown or black at our house, like many other natives of Ohio. We're Steelers fans."
"I can understand the tension among your dad's circle of friends." Maya giggles.
"My dad and I usually get to a few Pittsburgh Steelers football games each season. Dad purchases tickets from season-ticket holders who sell a game or two. We wear our black and gold and take our prized Terrible Towels. We follow our traditional routine, which involves listening to the song Renegade by the rock group Styx more times than I care to count.
"Last year, Dad got tickets in an amazing spot. They were the best seats we ever had. I sat next to a middle-aged gentleman, who despite being old enough to be my dad, was incredibly handsome… I'd call him sexy."
"I like where this story is going," Maya chimes in, and I smile as I remember the day so vividly.
"I spilled my water when I reacted to a bad call, forgetting the cap was off the bottle. The water spilled on the handsome man beside me. He couldn't have been more gracious. I liked him immediately. He recognized we weren't Dr. Stone and his wife, the ticket holders for the seats we occupied. He asked where we were from before adding, 'By the way, my name is Ray Scott. And you are?'
"I placed my hand in the one Ray offered me. We kept up with small talk during halftime which resulted in Ray getting the entire Cliff's Notes version of my life to that moment.
"'Well, Emerson Parker, I really like you. I know a full-time office manager is different from a career in business management, but, I'd like to give you my card. I won't make any promises, but the way things are looking, there will be some executive changes made at the company soon and some career paths could become available. I know I need a new office manager sooner rather than later. I think you could be a great fit, Emerson. Please, take my card. Think about it. If you're interested, give me a call.' That's how I met Ray Scott. I'm still haunted by Ray's death. A heart attack took Ray away from us far too soon. It happened last month. I miss him every day."
"I'm so sorry to hear. I recall reading the articles in the newspaper. He was a prominent business man who did many great things." Maya seems genuinely sorry for our loss, and the community's loss. I agree with her.
"That was also the day I first met Ashe Bennett. I didn't notice when the man on the other side of Ray returned to his seat. The response by the crowd to the Renegade video halfway through the third quarter was electric. After the excitement of a defensive touchdown following a forced fumble, I was ready to pee in my pants. Ray stood to let me pass through; however, I tripped and stumbled into the man next to him. It all happened so fast. Suddenly, my nostrils were filled with the most amazing fragrance of cologne, my hands splayed out against a hard body and my eyes settled onto mossy green eyes. I watched as his pupils dilated before I lowered my gaze to his full parted lips.
"'Whoa, it's a good thing Ashe broke your fall, Emerson. He's a project director at Scott Construction. You'll get to know him very well.' Ray's eyes danced with delight at the idea of me working for him. I smiled and continued on my way to the ladies' room. By the time I finished, we intercepted again and led the Cleveland Browns by three touchdowns, with the momentum in our favor. I texted Dad and didn't bother returning to my seat. Somehow, a stroll along the river outside the stadium sounded much better, especially knowing the Steelers had a win locked up. That was the moment Ashe Bennett moved into my thoughts and he's still there.
"Since then, every encounter I've had with Ashe has gone nearly the same way—an intense flash of brilliant passion, then icy coldness…"
"How do you feel now, Emerson?" Maya's question pulls me from my thoughts.
"I feel incredible. Is the massage over?"
"Yes, Emerson, it is." Maya smiles warmly.
"I babbled on the whole time." I feel embarrassed for revealing so much to her.
"You did amazingly well; I think your massage was very effective. Your muscles relaxed significantly while you talked. I'll leave you alone now. You can lie here and continue to relax on the warmed mattress. Whenever you're ready, just get your robe and exit the room. You don't have to do anything; our staff will take care of the room after you depart. I enjoyed hearing so much about you, Emerson. And I'm looking forward to seeing you again."
"Thank you, Maya. I may have an addiction to massages because of you." We both share a laugh.
"I'm glad to hear that, Emerson. For what it's worth, there's a man from my past who used to look at me the same way Ashe looks at you. That man still looks at me that way, we've been married for sixteen years. I think you'll be okay." Maya smiles, winks and closes the door behind her.
Right. I may be okay, except for one big problem. What I see in Ashe's beautiful mossy green eyes compared to what he says and does—are two completely different things.
Falling Forever
July 4, 2016
FIREWORKS ~ A Holding on Forever Fourth of July Story
~Gage
I'm over thirty years old and I've seen fireworks dozens of times in my life. The combined excitement I felt for seeing those thrilling displays, couldn't make a spark compared to the excitement I feel today.
Why? You might ask...
I'll tell you. Laken Bennett. This is the first time I'm going to see fireworks with her. It's been two weeks since I asked her to marry me and everyday is an adventure. Everything is new.
Over the years, I've seen, heard and read so many sappy quotes about love. They set a precedence for romance for some. For me, they were always a surefire way to help skirts rise. But none of them ever made sense. None of them were anything more than a string of cleverly placed words.
Then it happened. Love happened. Laken happened.
Love isn't something you can explain. You can't make people understand it. I don't understand it. You feel it. You know it. Without understanding it, you know it. I know it. When love happens, all of those quotes make sense.
When love happens, life begins.
******
"I'm ready, babe. Let's go, traffic will be gross." The site of Lake bouncing down the stairs ignites my insatiable hunger for her. The sound of her breathy, sexy voice makes my dick thicken every time I hear it. The things she does to cut-off denim shorts, a cropped tank top and white Converse All-Stars shames the centerfolds in every men's magazine. And a pony tail. . .what the fuck is it about Lake's hair in a ponytail? It's all bouncy and swingy and long. My dick strains against my zipper.
"Maybe we should stay in, I think we could make some fireworks right here. I'm about to explode from how sexy you look." I wrap her ponytail around my hand and tug just enough so that her face tilts up to mine.
"I'll make you a deal," Lake whispers against my lips while raising one of her perfectly shaped eyebrows. "Take me to see the fireworks and when we get back you can explode all night long." She grins wickedly. Her plump, pink glossy lips urging me toward them.
"Let me be clear, you're going to have a Fourth of July like never before. 'Exploding' is putting it mildly." The desire in her green eyes is such a turn-on. The taste of her kiss is drugging.
She pulls her lips from mine, giggling, "Come on, let go!"
******
We navigate through the traffic, making our way to the private lot at Le Boutique. I'm displeased to see the whole lot filled. "What the hell? I suppose people failed to see the sign which reads - private lot."
"Relax, Gage. Everyone in the lot has my permission to be here. And look...there's a big wide space waiting for you to pull right in. See? It's all good."
"I'd prefer to be pushing into a tight, wet space right now." Laken's cheeks turn a pretty pink as she blushes from my innuendo. She leans across the console and kisses me gently on the lips.
"After fireworks," she breathes and gets out of the car. "I need to go inside the shop quickly. Do you mind?" Her eyes are dancing with delight and her smile is electric.
"Of course not, baby. Can I lend you a hand in there with any tight spaces?" I wink at her.
She rolls her eyes and I can't help but laugh. "Just go inside," she says while holding the door open. She locks the door and enters the security code.
"I do need your help with something, Gage." I follow her through the back room of her shop. She leads me into her office to a metal staircase behind a door. "This is the access to the roof. I need you to follow me up here and give me a hand with something."
"Okay, sure." I feel like she's being obtuse. But, I gladly follow her up the stairs and love every moment of her glorious ass in my face as she goes.
At the top of the stairs there is a door, Lake pushes it open and I can see the cerulean blue sky and the radiant streaks of red, orange and gold from the sunset above her. She steps onto the roof and away from the door. I'm right behind her.
"SURPRISE!"
I'm overwhelmed to see Ryan, Rainne, Ashe, my mom, Mr. and Mrs. Bennett, Emerson and several other people from the office, some people I don't recognize, even Killian is here. They're all clapping and smiling. Not realizing everything that's going on, I look at Laken.
"Its your official welcome home party slash engagement party. And guess what, there'll be fireworks!" Lake jokes and laughs wrapping her arms around me. I think I can actually feel myself falling deeper in love with her.
"You did this?" I ask.
"Yes!" Lake smiles.
We're interrupted by other people seeking our attention. I have a great time mingling. It's great on the roof of Laken's building. There's a pergola which appears to be permanent. Bamboo lights are strung across the beams. There are tables set up with beer, wine and different things for making mixed drinks and a buffet of all of the cookout staples. The rooftop is littered with chairs, recliners and blankets on the ground for people to sit and watch the fireworks.
The sound of the first rumble of percussion quiets the crowd and everyone finds a place to watch.
"Hey! Come on," Lake says in her sultry voice as she takes my hand leading me to the back corner of the roof where a double recliner awaits us.
We're nestled together. My beautiful fiancé's face is illuminated by the brilliant flashes in the sky. She's breathtaking. I hold her a little bit closer and a little bit tighter, and I'm holding on forever.
© 2016 Victoria Monroe
Victoria Monroe
I'm over thirty years old and I've seen fireworks dozens of times in my life. The combined excitement I felt for seeing those thrilling displays, couldn't make a spark compared to the excitement I feel today.
Why? You might ask...
I'll tell you. Laken Bennett. This is the first time I'm going to see fireworks with her. It's been two weeks since I asked her to marry me and everyday is an adventure. Everything is new.
Over the years, I've seen, heard and read so many sappy quotes about love. They set a precedence for romance for some. For me, they were always a surefire way to help skirts rise. But none of them ever made sense. None of them were anything more than a string of cleverly placed words.
Then it happened. Love happened. Laken happened.
Love isn't something you can explain. You can't make people understand it. I don't understand it. You feel it. You know it. Without understanding it, you know it. I know it. When love happens, all of those quotes make sense.
When love happens, life begins.
******
"I'm ready, babe. Let's go, traffic will be gross." The site of Lake bouncing down the stairs ignites my insatiable hunger for her. The sound of her breathy, sexy voice makes my dick thicken every time I hear it. The things she does to cut-off denim shorts, a cropped tank top and white Converse All-Stars shames the centerfolds in every men's magazine. And a pony tail. . .what the fuck is it about Lake's hair in a ponytail? It's all bouncy and swingy and long. My dick strains against my zipper.
"Maybe we should stay in, I think we could make some fireworks right here. I'm about to explode from how sexy you look." I wrap her ponytail around my hand and tug just enough so that her face tilts up to mine.
"I'll make you a deal," Lake whispers against my lips while raising one of her perfectly shaped eyebrows. "Take me to see the fireworks and when we get back you can explode all night long." She grins wickedly. Her plump, pink glossy lips urging me toward them.
"Let me be clear, you're going to have a Fourth of July like never before. 'Exploding' is putting it mildly." The desire in her green eyes is such a turn-on. The taste of her kiss is drugging.
She pulls her lips from mine, giggling, "Come on, let go!"
******
We navigate through the traffic, making our way to the private lot at Le Boutique. I'm displeased to see the whole lot filled. "What the hell? I suppose people failed to see the sign which reads - private lot."
"Relax, Gage. Everyone in the lot has my permission to be here. And look...there's a big wide space waiting for you to pull right in. See? It's all good."
"I'd prefer to be pushing into a tight, wet space right now." Laken's cheeks turn a pretty pink as she blushes from my innuendo. She leans across the console and kisses me gently on the lips.
"After fireworks," she breathes and gets out of the car. "I need to go inside the shop quickly. Do you mind?" Her eyes are dancing with delight and her smile is electric.
"Of course not, baby. Can I lend you a hand in there with any tight spaces?" I wink at her.
She rolls her eyes and I can't help but laugh. "Just go inside," she says while holding the door open. She locks the door and enters the security code.
"I do need your help with something, Gage." I follow her through the back room of her shop. She leads me into her office to a metal staircase behind a door. "This is the access to the roof. I need you to follow me up here and give me a hand with something."
"Okay, sure." I feel like she's being obtuse. But, I gladly follow her up the stairs and love every moment of her glorious ass in my face as she goes.
At the top of the stairs there is a door, Lake pushes it open and I can see the cerulean blue sky and the radiant streaks of red, orange and gold from the sunset above her. She steps onto the roof and away from the door. I'm right behind her.
"SURPRISE!"
I'm overwhelmed to see Ryan, Rainne, Ashe, my mom, Mr. and Mrs. Bennett, Emerson and several other people from the office, some people I don't recognize, even Killian is here. They're all clapping and smiling. Not realizing everything that's going on, I look at Laken.
"Its your official welcome home party slash engagement party. And guess what, there'll be fireworks!" Lake jokes and laughs wrapping her arms around me. I think I can actually feel myself falling deeper in love with her.
"You did this?" I ask.
"Yes!" Lake smiles.
We're interrupted by other people seeking our attention. I have a great time mingling. It's great on the roof of Laken's building. There's a pergola which appears to be permanent. Bamboo lights are strung across the beams. There are tables set up with beer, wine and different things for making mixed drinks and a buffet of all of the cookout staples. The rooftop is littered with chairs, recliners and blankets on the ground for people to sit and watch the fireworks.
The sound of the first rumble of percussion quiets the crowd and everyone finds a place to watch.
"Hey! Come on," Lake says in her sultry voice as she takes my hand leading me to the back corner of the roof where a double recliner awaits us.
We're nestled together. My beautiful fiancé's face is illuminated by the brilliant flashes in the sky. She's breathtaking. I hold her a little bit closer and a little bit tighter, and I'm holding on forever.
© 2016 Victoria Monroe
Victoria Monroe
March 19, 2016
Excerpt from Ashe and Em's Story
Victoria Monroe TBD
“I already told you – I’m not a peeping-tom.”
The fucking police department. There are crimes happening all over this city while they sit here trying to convince themselves I’m not a pervert. I don’t have to look into windows to get my jollies. Fuck. Although, maybe I should start looking into Emerson’s windows.
“I apologize if I’ve offended you,” officer Riggins says. “Normally when we have a male perp lurking outside a young woman’s residence at night and peering into her windows, we often assume he’s a peeping-tom. How inappropriate of us.”
I respect what these men and women do every day, but officer - I look like I’m twelve - is riding my last nerve with his endless sarcasm. “Look, can I get out of here? Emerson said she’s not pressing charges. I wasn’t there to cause her trouble or do anything to harm anyone. It was an innocent misunderstanding.”
“Alright, Mr. Bennett, we’ll need you to sign some paperwork and you’ll be free to go.”
"Great. Can I have my cell phone and other personal items back? I need to call someone for a ride." It's just a matter of deciding who the lucky person will be to get the phone call to come pick me up at the police station.
“You already have a ride, Mr. Bennett.”
“Oh, that’s great. So, an officer can just take me to get my bike?”
“No, sir. Your motorcycle has been impounded and has to be retained for twenty-four hours. However, since no crime was committed, we will not charge you a fee.”
“You’re fucking kidding me, right? I mean, you’re fucking kidding me, right, sir?” This little news flash puts my ass right back down into the chair I just stood up from.
“Try to watch the language, Mr. Bennett. I’m sure I don’t look like a joking man. Look at the situation from a victim’s point-of-view. Imagine for a moment it’s your friend, your sister, in this type of situation. . . Wouldn’t you want every precaution taken for her safety?”
He has no idea. It’s Emerson, she means more than. . . “I feel like an asshole now. Oh, I apologize, my language - again.”
“No apologies necessary – asshole is just about on target.” Officer Riggins doesn’t mind dishing me shit. I suppose I respect that.
“Fair enough. About my ride?” I look at him expectantly. I just want to get the fuck out of here and put this whole night behind me.
“Right this way, Bennett.” I follow him out into the precinct. “Here’s your tom, Ms. Parker. Are you sure you’re okay to transport him?”
The reasons for why I’m here along with everything I knew to this point just disappear when I see Emerson. Her long, thick hair is in a big messy pile on top of her head. Her gray sweatshirt drops down off of her shoulder revealing a delicate black strap. And her pants. . .fuck me. She’s wearing those glorious skin tight yoga pants. The police department can’t stop my cock from reacting to her.
Stay tuned… x
“I already told you – I’m not a peeping-tom.”
The fucking police department. There are crimes happening all over this city while they sit here trying to convince themselves I’m not a pervert. I don’t have to look into windows to get my jollies. Fuck. Although, maybe I should start looking into Emerson’s windows.
“I apologize if I’ve offended you,” officer Riggins says. “Normally when we have a male perp lurking outside a young woman’s residence at night and peering into her windows, we often assume he’s a peeping-tom. How inappropriate of us.”
I respect what these men and women do every day, but officer - I look like I’m twelve - is riding my last nerve with his endless sarcasm. “Look, can I get out of here? Emerson said she’s not pressing charges. I wasn’t there to cause her trouble or do anything to harm anyone. It was an innocent misunderstanding.”
“Alright, Mr. Bennett, we’ll need you to sign some paperwork and you’ll be free to go.”
"Great. Can I have my cell phone and other personal items back? I need to call someone for a ride." It's just a matter of deciding who the lucky person will be to get the phone call to come pick me up at the police station.
“You already have a ride, Mr. Bennett.”
“Oh, that’s great. So, an officer can just take me to get my bike?”
“No, sir. Your motorcycle has been impounded and has to be retained for twenty-four hours. However, since no crime was committed, we will not charge you a fee.”
“You’re fucking kidding me, right? I mean, you’re fucking kidding me, right, sir?” This little news flash puts my ass right back down into the chair I just stood up from.
“Try to watch the language, Mr. Bennett. I’m sure I don’t look like a joking man. Look at the situation from a victim’s point-of-view. Imagine for a moment it’s your friend, your sister, in this type of situation. . . Wouldn’t you want every precaution taken for her safety?”
He has no idea. It’s Emerson, she means more than. . . “I feel like an asshole now. Oh, I apologize, my language - again.”
“No apologies necessary – asshole is just about on target.” Officer Riggins doesn’t mind dishing me shit. I suppose I respect that.
“Fair enough. About my ride?” I look at him expectantly. I just want to get the fuck out of here and put this whole night behind me.
“Right this way, Bennett.” I follow him out into the precinct. “Here’s your tom, Ms. Parker. Are you sure you’re okay to transport him?”
The reasons for why I’m here along with everything I knew to this point just disappear when I see Emerson. Her long, thick hair is in a big messy pile on top of her head. Her gray sweatshirt drops down off of her shoulder revealing a delicate black strap. And her pants. . .fuck me. She’s wearing those glorious skin tight yoga pants. The police department can’t stop my cock from reacting to her.
Stay tuned… x
March 1, 2016
EPILOGUE from HOLDING ON FOREVER
Holding on Forever
Victoria Monroe
~ASHE~
Brinley disappearing into the ladies’ room for so long isn't a bad thing. She's really a nice girl, pretty, but I'm not feeling any real attraction to her. I'm glad I had the chance to spend some time with her and get to know her. As far as romance, as far as wanting her, it's just not there. My wants right now, are more singular than they have ever been. There is only one woman I crave and I don’t know how much longer I can fight it, business partner or not.
The agenda for tonight's event has been so tight I haven’t had the opportunity to look for Emerson. I actually hope, she decided against attending, and didn’t come. Come. Fuck. I fantasize about making her come. I fucking dream about it. I know she wanted to ask me to go to the gala with her tonight. I wanted her to ask me. I would've said yes. I would have agreed knowing damn well, spending the evening with her would mean there would be no way in hell I could stop myself again. I’ve stopped myself with her twice. My restraint is running very low. Just the smell of her sweet skin is enough to make me lose my mind. She appears so innocent. But I've had a taste of her from behind closed doors. She's far from innocent. Emerson has wants which run as deep as mine. I know without a doubt, together, we can satisfy every single one of our wants. When she came to my place in her short, sexy dress, with her hair down and makeup on her face. I couldn’t keep my hands – or my mouth – off of her. Thank God she's mostly in pants at the office. She keeps her long hair in a ponytail and wears minimal makeup. Even then, she's sexy as hell. Experiencing her like she was the day she came to see me at my house...damn. I could burn in hell for the thoughts I have about her. I need to find her.
“The photographs taken upon arrival are up there for display.” Gage says and nods. I turn my head in the same direction. Immediately, I lose all of my senses and all I see is her.
Fuck. Me.
Emerson?
What the fuck?
Here I sit, in a room full of people with a hard dick, looking at the most stunning woman I've ever laid eyes on, and she's with another man.
“Do you have a pulse?” Gage claps his hands in my face. All I can do is shake my head. The tension in my body has me practically immobile.
Fuck.
She’s wearing orange, over what skin is actually covered. Her shoulders and back are bare except for one delicate strap which goes diagonally over one sexy shoulder and across her back to her tiny waist. Then there is just long, flowy material to the floor. Laken is hugging her. She’s talking and laughing with my sister. Emerson pushes her hair over her shoulder to hang down her back. She changed it. It looks darker in some parts and lighter in others. It’s full of big twists. Curls maybe. Whatever they are, I want to put my fingers through them. Now Rainne’s up there, blocking my view. Damn. Oh, good. Yeah baby, turn. Turn around so I can see your face, keep coming. . .
Holy. Fuck.
The slit in her dress goes the whole way up to her fucking waist. How high are those heels and why are there so many straps? They look like the kind of shoes chicks leave on in a porn, only sexier, more tantalizing, subtle. . .
Fuck.
He’s got his fucking hand at the small of her back, on bare skin…and it’s obvious, there’s no way she’s wearing any lingerie.
“Excuse me?” I hear Ryan say.
“Pardon me?” Gage asks.
“What?” I look back and forth between them. They start to look the same as I look at them like this, it’s fucking weird. For a minute, I’m distracted while the three of us look like the fucking stooges looking at each other with stupid expressions on our faces.
Ryan asks, “Didn’t you just say something?”
“No.”
“I swear I heard you say something about wearing something.”
“Hey, sorry I was gone so long. I ran into Vaughn and didn’t realize how much time has passed by, forgive me.” Brin sits in her chair next to mine and settles into me, linking her arm through mine and looking up at me. Her interruption is very welcomed and curbs the Scott brother’s Q & A. I must have actually uttered my thoughts about Emerson aloud. Emerson. I look back to where she’s standing. Brin leans into my neck, talking into my ear, telling me she’s ready to leave. At the same time, a smiling, giggling Emerson turns her radiant face towards me. Our eyes lock. Her eyes dart to the left of me, to Brin and what appears to be her nuzzling, then back to mine. The smile and the light in her eyes melt away. Instantly.
Fuck.
Laken and Rainne motion for Emerson and her date to follow them to our table. As they approach, Emerson is smiling again, but it’s fake. I can see it and I can feel it.
Emerson breaks the ice, putting her hand on Ryan’s shoulder. “Hey Ryan. Hello Gage, it’s so good to see you back here. I heard you’re staying. I’m really glad.” Her smile is genuine. Killian looks to Laken and winks, while Emerson’s talking. Why in the hell is he winking at Laken? Fucker.
“Thank you, Emerson. I’m very happy to be back permanently and start my life.” Gage’s eyes drift to Laken and she comes around the table and sits right down next to him smiling. I know Gage is my sister’s future, and it honestly could not make me any happier. I think I always knew they would end up together. I see Killian look to Laken again, and smile. I think the son of a bitch is happy for her too. Sure he’s happy, he’s with Emerson. Emerson – the woman who is wearing a sexy fucking dress, sky high heels, and nothing else.
“Ashe. Brinley. You both look very nice this evening. It’s a lovely event for such a great cause, isn’t it?” Emerson is pleasant in her conversation, although there is an iciness in her eyes.
Brin smiles and stands, giving Emerson an embrace. “It really is, Emerson. I have to tell you; you look absolutely amazing. Your dress and shoes are incredible. Your hair. Your make-up. I’m telling you the same thing I told Rainne and Laken this evening, you’re gorgeous!”
“Thank you, Brin. That was kind of you to say. You look beautiful, too.” Emerson blushes a lovely color.
“It’s a privilege to be her escort this evening. Hi, I’m Killian Peterson. And you are?”
Eat shit and die, fucker.
“Please excuse us, I’m sorry to interrupt,” Gage, says. “We’re going to go and start making our way out, and head to the house for the engagement celebration. It was good seeing all of you, if we don’t see you later, enjoy the rest of your evening.”
“We are doing the same,” Ryan says.
We all exchange goodbyes and small talk. Ryan, Rainne, Gage and Laken depart and start moving though the guests making their way out.
“There was a little detour there…Hi, Killian, I’m Brinley Foster. You can call me Brin.” She offers her hand, and a bright smile, to Killian.
“Alright, Brin, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Killian has a smile on his face that goes a little beyond, hey, nice to meet you. The two of them continue with the – getting-to-know-you-conversation – they started. It leaves me a moment to talk to Emmie. I sweep my gaze over her exposed leg and up her body until I meet her eyes.
"You changed your hair." It's so fucking sexy. I'm speechless.
"Yes, I did. I got a few caramel highlights and some soft black low lights. Something to break up the endless dark brown." She looks nervous.
"Oh." Sweetheart, there's nothing wrong with your endless brown. But these extra colors make you look even sexier.
"You look handsome, Ashe. Are you enjoying yourself?" She asks. Her voice is so soft.
"Oh yea, I'm having a great time." Why am I such a dick? I get stupid around her.
"Emerson? Ready to go?" Fucking Killian. Back off dude. I’m trying to talk to her. I would be talking to her, if I wasn’t an asshole.
"Ashe, I'm ready to head out if you don't mind." Now Brin…I just want to fucking scream for everyone to leave Em and I the fuck alone.
"Um, sure Killian. I'm ready to go. I hope you both have a nice evening. Are you going to the engagement party?" Emerson is looking at both Brin and I as she asks the question. Brin has to go home but I'll be going to the party. Maybe that's where we can talk.
"Unfortunately, we're not. We're going back to my place." Brin chimes in, what the hell? Me and my damned nonstop thoughts. Brin's answer sounds like we are going back to her place, as in – sex. As in – NO. Fuck.
"Oh! Well, enjoy yourselves." Emerson snaps quickly. "Yes, Killian. I'm ready." She looks to him with a smile. As she takes two steps away from the table. Away from me.
"Let's go," he says offering his arm to her. She snakes her arm through his and turns exposing her entire leg from her ankle to her tantalizing length of thigh to where the slit stops just below her waist. As they start to walk away, she drapes her long hair over her shoulder and I see the bare skin of her back. Killian moves his hand just above her ass, where her skin meets the fabric at her waist as they make their way to the door. I know what her skin feels like in some areas, but I don't know what it feels like there. I need to know. Every part of her I touched, felt like fucking silk.
It should be my hand. Oh Emerson, you look so beautiful. You look like a dream. I didn't even tell her. What did I do instead? I tell her she changed her hair and never even say I like it. I don't like it. I love it. All of these fucking interruptions. Brin couldn't have been any more inexact, if she tried. She could not have insinuated sex any more unless she would have said, I'm going to fuck Ashe, tonight. Fuck.
"Ashe, are you okay? You look a little pale." Brin seems genuinely concerned.
“Brin, I better get you home.” I have things to do tonight. I offer her my arm and escort her out.
Emerson, wherever you are tonight, I’m going to find you.
Victoria Monroe
~ASHE~
Brinley disappearing into the ladies’ room for so long isn't a bad thing. She's really a nice girl, pretty, but I'm not feeling any real attraction to her. I'm glad I had the chance to spend some time with her and get to know her. As far as romance, as far as wanting her, it's just not there. My wants right now, are more singular than they have ever been. There is only one woman I crave and I don’t know how much longer I can fight it, business partner or not.
The agenda for tonight's event has been so tight I haven’t had the opportunity to look for Emerson. I actually hope, she decided against attending, and didn’t come. Come. Fuck. I fantasize about making her come. I fucking dream about it. I know she wanted to ask me to go to the gala with her tonight. I wanted her to ask me. I would've said yes. I would have agreed knowing damn well, spending the evening with her would mean there would be no way in hell I could stop myself again. I’ve stopped myself with her twice. My restraint is running very low. Just the smell of her sweet skin is enough to make me lose my mind. She appears so innocent. But I've had a taste of her from behind closed doors. She's far from innocent. Emerson has wants which run as deep as mine. I know without a doubt, together, we can satisfy every single one of our wants. When she came to my place in her short, sexy dress, with her hair down and makeup on her face. I couldn’t keep my hands – or my mouth – off of her. Thank God she's mostly in pants at the office. She keeps her long hair in a ponytail and wears minimal makeup. Even then, she's sexy as hell. Experiencing her like she was the day she came to see me at my house...damn. I could burn in hell for the thoughts I have about her. I need to find her.
“The photographs taken upon arrival are up there for display.” Gage says and nods. I turn my head in the same direction. Immediately, I lose all of my senses and all I see is her.
Fuck. Me.
Emerson?
What the fuck?
Here I sit, in a room full of people with a hard dick, looking at the most stunning woman I've ever laid eyes on, and she's with another man.
“Do you have a pulse?” Gage claps his hands in my face. All I can do is shake my head. The tension in my body has me practically immobile.
Fuck.
She’s wearing orange, over what skin is actually covered. Her shoulders and back are bare except for one delicate strap which goes diagonally over one sexy shoulder and across her back to her tiny waist. Then there is just long, flowy material to the floor. Laken is hugging her. She’s talking and laughing with my sister. Emerson pushes her hair over her shoulder to hang down her back. She changed it. It looks darker in some parts and lighter in others. It’s full of big twists. Curls maybe. Whatever they are, I want to put my fingers through them. Now Rainne’s up there, blocking my view. Damn. Oh, good. Yeah baby, turn. Turn around so I can see your face, keep coming. . .
Holy. Fuck.
The slit in her dress goes the whole way up to her fucking waist. How high are those heels and why are there so many straps? They look like the kind of shoes chicks leave on in a porn, only sexier, more tantalizing, subtle. . .
Fuck.
He’s got his fucking hand at the small of her back, on bare skin…and it’s obvious, there’s no way she’s wearing any lingerie.
“Excuse me?” I hear Ryan say.
“Pardon me?” Gage asks.
“What?” I look back and forth between them. They start to look the same as I look at them like this, it’s fucking weird. For a minute, I’m distracted while the three of us look like the fucking stooges looking at each other with stupid expressions on our faces.
Ryan asks, “Didn’t you just say something?”
“No.”
“I swear I heard you say something about wearing something.”
“Hey, sorry I was gone so long. I ran into Vaughn and didn’t realize how much time has passed by, forgive me.” Brin sits in her chair next to mine and settles into me, linking her arm through mine and looking up at me. Her interruption is very welcomed and curbs the Scott brother’s Q & A. I must have actually uttered my thoughts about Emerson aloud. Emerson. I look back to where she’s standing. Brin leans into my neck, talking into my ear, telling me she’s ready to leave. At the same time, a smiling, giggling Emerson turns her radiant face towards me. Our eyes lock. Her eyes dart to the left of me, to Brin and what appears to be her nuzzling, then back to mine. The smile and the light in her eyes melt away. Instantly.
Fuck.
Laken and Rainne motion for Emerson and her date to follow them to our table. As they approach, Emerson is smiling again, but it’s fake. I can see it and I can feel it.
Emerson breaks the ice, putting her hand on Ryan’s shoulder. “Hey Ryan. Hello Gage, it’s so good to see you back here. I heard you’re staying. I’m really glad.” Her smile is genuine. Killian looks to Laken and winks, while Emerson’s talking. Why in the hell is he winking at Laken? Fucker.
“Thank you, Emerson. I’m very happy to be back permanently and start my life.” Gage’s eyes drift to Laken and she comes around the table and sits right down next to him smiling. I know Gage is my sister’s future, and it honestly could not make me any happier. I think I always knew they would end up together. I see Killian look to Laken again, and smile. I think the son of a bitch is happy for her too. Sure he’s happy, he’s with Emerson. Emerson – the woman who is wearing a sexy fucking dress, sky high heels, and nothing else.
“Ashe. Brinley. You both look very nice this evening. It’s a lovely event for such a great cause, isn’t it?” Emerson is pleasant in her conversation, although there is an iciness in her eyes.
Brin smiles and stands, giving Emerson an embrace. “It really is, Emerson. I have to tell you; you look absolutely amazing. Your dress and shoes are incredible. Your hair. Your make-up. I’m telling you the same thing I told Rainne and Laken this evening, you’re gorgeous!”
“Thank you, Brin. That was kind of you to say. You look beautiful, too.” Emerson blushes a lovely color.
“It’s a privilege to be her escort this evening. Hi, I’m Killian Peterson. And you are?”
Eat shit and die, fucker.
“Please excuse us, I’m sorry to interrupt,” Gage, says. “We’re going to go and start making our way out, and head to the house for the engagement celebration. It was good seeing all of you, if we don’t see you later, enjoy the rest of your evening.”
“We are doing the same,” Ryan says.
We all exchange goodbyes and small talk. Ryan, Rainne, Gage and Laken depart and start moving though the guests making their way out.
“There was a little detour there…Hi, Killian, I’m Brinley Foster. You can call me Brin.” She offers her hand, and a bright smile, to Killian.
“Alright, Brin, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Killian has a smile on his face that goes a little beyond, hey, nice to meet you. The two of them continue with the – getting-to-know-you-conversation – they started. It leaves me a moment to talk to Emmie. I sweep my gaze over her exposed leg and up her body until I meet her eyes.
"You changed your hair." It's so fucking sexy. I'm speechless.
"Yes, I did. I got a few caramel highlights and some soft black low lights. Something to break up the endless dark brown." She looks nervous.
"Oh." Sweetheart, there's nothing wrong with your endless brown. But these extra colors make you look even sexier.
"You look handsome, Ashe. Are you enjoying yourself?" She asks. Her voice is so soft.
"Oh yea, I'm having a great time." Why am I such a dick? I get stupid around her.
"Emerson? Ready to go?" Fucking Killian. Back off dude. I’m trying to talk to her. I would be talking to her, if I wasn’t an asshole.
"Ashe, I'm ready to head out if you don't mind." Now Brin…I just want to fucking scream for everyone to leave Em and I the fuck alone.
"Um, sure Killian. I'm ready to go. I hope you both have a nice evening. Are you going to the engagement party?" Emerson is looking at both Brin and I as she asks the question. Brin has to go home but I'll be going to the party. Maybe that's where we can talk.
"Unfortunately, we're not. We're going back to my place." Brin chimes in, what the hell? Me and my damned nonstop thoughts. Brin's answer sounds like we are going back to her place, as in – sex. As in – NO. Fuck.
"Oh! Well, enjoy yourselves." Emerson snaps quickly. "Yes, Killian. I'm ready." She looks to him with a smile. As she takes two steps away from the table. Away from me.
"Let's go," he says offering his arm to her. She snakes her arm through his and turns exposing her entire leg from her ankle to her tantalizing length of thigh to where the slit stops just below her waist. As they start to walk away, she drapes her long hair over her shoulder and I see the bare skin of her back. Killian moves his hand just above her ass, where her skin meets the fabric at her waist as they make their way to the door. I know what her skin feels like in some areas, but I don't know what it feels like there. I need to know. Every part of her I touched, felt like fucking silk.
It should be my hand. Oh Emerson, you look so beautiful. You look like a dream. I didn't even tell her. What did I do instead? I tell her she changed her hair and never even say I like it. I don't like it. I love it. All of these fucking interruptions. Brin couldn't have been any more inexact, if she tried. She could not have insinuated sex any more unless she would have said, I'm going to fuck Ashe, tonight. Fuck.
"Ashe, are you okay? You look a little pale." Brin seems genuinely concerned.
“Brin, I better get you home.” I have things to do tonight. I offer her my arm and escort her out.
Emerson, wherever you are tonight, I’m going to find you.
February 14, 2016
Rainne’s White Valentine’s Day
Rainne’s White Valentine’s Day
A Holding On Forever Valentine’s Story
**This story takes place before the start of Holding on Forever**
Seriously. Is there an unspoken rule which states ALL lingerie should be red on Valentine’s Day? Do people not have sex any other day of the year? I love hearts and flowers as much as the next girl . . . but, ugh. Maybe I just need to buy red lace and get over it. I don’t know what’s wrong with me this year. I’m head over heels in love with Ryan. He’s everything I want in a man. We share unbridled passion between us. The eight months we’ve been together are the happiest I’ve known. Since the holidays, he’s been so busy, so distant. I know he hates it too. He’s doing everything he can to help his dad get everything squared away at Scott Construction. He still does all he can to make me feel cherished.
“Excuse me? Do have any more of the crotchless red lace teddies in a size M/36B?” The woman has such a dreamy look on her face. I assume this crotchless teddy will be the pinnacle of her Valentine’s Day.
“I believe we have everything out, but I want to be sure. Give me a moment, please.” I motion to Emerson, so she knows I’m leaving the sales floor. It’s fucking 5:00 in the evening on Saturday, February 13th. She should have purchased her red lace from Le Boutique sooner.
“I am sick of red lace, pink tissue paper, lavender fabric spray, and most of all – I’m sick of hearing the stories of everyone’s Valentine’s Day plans.” I look at Laken expecting her to make it all go away.
“Um, okay. Well, next year I refuse to buy red lace for boudoir, we will use black tissue paper, I’ll stock vanilla fabric spray for the packaging. Oh, and I will advise customers to remain silent.” I just stare at Laken while she mocks my frustration with a flat expression.
“Do we have any remaining back stock of the red crotchless fuck suits?”
“No. There isn’t anything left. We’re sold out of everything – fuck suits included – with the exception of the few things out on the floor. What the hell is the matter with you? Take a load off, you need not be on the sales floor in your state.”
Laken leaves the office and doesn’t seem overly happy with me. I have nothing to be pissy about. I’m in a committed relationship with an incredible man who loves me. A man who works hard and does everything he can to make me happy. Now Laken is irritated.
“Hey Rainne, I’m heading out.” Emerson is so damn pretty and she’s also the girl who isn’t all sappy and weepy. She’s tender, but she’s tough. She’s standing in door of the office with her long dark hair pulled back in a ponytail. Her amber eyes are shining bright.
“Okay, Em. Thanks. Do you have any plans tonight for V-day?”
“Ha! No! Wait, yes I do. I’m going to go home and eat a sexy Caesar salad, then I think I’ll drown myself in a book on my kindle. Maybe I’ll take a hot bath before going to bed.” Em laughs and rolls her eyes. “You have that sexy boyfriend of yours to snuggle up next to tonight. Lucky!”
“Actually, we never made any plans at all. We never discussed anything for this weekend.”
“You can still make it special without an elaborate plan. Valentine’s Day is about love and romance, you have that every day, Rainne. I’ll see you soon. Enjoy your evening.” Em smiles and leaves. She’s right. I am ridiculous.
“You’re ridiculous.” Laken briskly walks into the office grabbing her purse. “Let’s go. Get your things,” she commands me. “Em remote started my car for us. It’s freezing outside.”
“I am, you’re right.” I collect my bag and coat. “I apologize, Laken.”
“You don’t need to apologize to me. I’m just glad Ryan didn’t see you like this. I’ve known Ryan my entire life, Rainne. He’s head over heels for you. He’s under a lot of stress. Cut him a break. Besides, it’s only 6:00. The truth is, you don’t know if has anything planned or not.” Laken is wrapping a giant infinity loop scarf around her neck and lofting her long blonde tresses from inside her coat.
“I know.”
“Alright, let’s go. I want to get home. It’s ten degrees below zero and I want to go home. Killian is coming over tonight. He’s bringing dinner and we’re watching a movie. Your sexy ass is more than welcome to join us. There’s nothing happening between us.” I hope Laken finds someone special, someone who will love her the way she deserves to be loved. There’s a tinge of sadness in her clear green eyes. I know she wants romance and love in her life. We turn off the lights, setting the alarm as we exit the rear entrance.
It’s snowing. It’s so cold the snow looks like white glitter falling from the sky. Everything is covered in white. The ground is . . . red, pink, rose petals . . . what? My mind is playing catch up with my eyes. I follow a trail of rose petals to where a gorgeous man is standing in the falling snow. All of a sudden nothing else matters. I love him. It is already the happiest Valentine’s Day.
“Hey, you!” Ryan whispers.
“Hey, yourself! Hi! What a nice surprise. Thank you for the rose petals.” I come to stand in front of Ryan. I look up into his handsome face. He bends down and wraps me in his arms and kisses me. There is a sense of urgency in our kiss. We’ve missed each other. We need this. The skin on my face feels tight from the penetrating cold, but there is heat between us. Our mouths are fully open to each other. Our tongues entwined in perfect harmony together, tangling deliciously. Ryan sinks his teeth into my bottom lip before leading me to the cozy interior of his truck.
“Happy Valentine’s Day, baby,” Ryan says after he settles behind the steering wheel.
“Happy Valentine’s Day,” I say with a smile. “I’m so surprised.”
“I hope you didn’t think I would let the day built for romance slip away without sharing it with my beautiful girlfriend?”
“I didn’t know what to think. I never said goodbye to Laken.” Instantly, I feel bad for everything I said and did today.
Once we arrive at Ryan’s beautiful home, I am stunned by what I see. The living room is lit only by a crackling fire and dozens of candles. There are rose petals scattered around the floor. The coffee table is moved and sits beside the fireplace, it’s covered with white linen. Cut cheeses are piled on a wooden block with fresh green grapes. There is a plate filled with cuts of different passion fruits. Champagne on ice and a bowl of strawberries also are on the menu. In front of the fireplace are three thick goose down comforters drizzled with rose petals. Ryan takes my coat and tells me there is a bath waiting for me. He gently kisses my lips and instructs me to go relax.
Again, candles and roses surround the jetted bath. There is no tension or angst in my body. I am totally relaxed. The hot water feels incredible.
“Hey.” Ryan breathes.
I open my eyes and immediately feel a tightening in the muscles between my thighs. He changed. He’s in black lounge pants and that’s all. His rippled abs and defined biceps are mouthwateringly sexy. His dark brown hair is styled. His lips are curved in a sexy as hell grin and his blue eyes are nearly completely black. I look down and see a small white box in his hands. There is a black bow on the box. Below the box, I can see the hard evidence that this will be a night to remember.
“I got something for you. It’s ready to wear. I hand washed it myself.” He smiles revealing the sexy dimples in his cheeks.
“Okay. I’m finished. I’m going to rub some oil on my skin and I’ll be down. Your gift is in the bag on the edge of the bed. I’d like you to open it, while I finish. You’ll know what you need to do.”
“I’ll be waiting. . .hurry.”
Moving the tissue paper away from inside the box, I find a beautiful white lace negligée. Its short and backless with the exception of two soft straps that anchor and tie at the waist. It’s white. It’s perfect. It’s me.
I make my way into the living room. Ryan is sitting on the sofa facing the fire. I walk up behind him and softly kiss the back of his neck. Mhhh.
“Close your eyes.” I command.
“Okay, they’re closed.”
I tip toe onto the soft comforters and stand before him. My skin glowing. My long brown hair, wet from the bath, is brushed and hanging loose.
“Open, them.”
“Fuck.” His cock hardens and strains against the loose fabric of his pants.
“Baby, you look so fucking sexy. You look delicious.”
“Thank you. It’s white.”
“Oh, I know everything is red and pink now. . .but, I have this uncontrollable urge to see you in white. I know it has only been eight months, Rainne. . .I know one day you are going to wear white in front of our family and friends when you take my name.”
“I know I will too, Ryan. I love that it’s white, it’s perfect.”
Ryan stands and pulls the tie holding the straps in place. He loosens it and the nighty falls, pooling at my feet.
“Lay down.” He commands and I do as he instructs.
“Spread your thighs.” I do.
“I opened the present you got me. I cleaned it and put the batteries in it. I intend to use it well on you. The first thing I’m going to do is devour your sweet pussy until you beg me to stop, but I won’t. Tonight, baby, you are going to be filled everywhere. . .
Happy Valentine’s Day
A Holding On Forever Valentine’s Story
**This story takes place before the start of Holding on Forever**
Seriously. Is there an unspoken rule which states ALL lingerie should be red on Valentine’s Day? Do people not have sex any other day of the year? I love hearts and flowers as much as the next girl . . . but, ugh. Maybe I just need to buy red lace and get over it. I don’t know what’s wrong with me this year. I’m head over heels in love with Ryan. He’s everything I want in a man. We share unbridled passion between us. The eight months we’ve been together are the happiest I’ve known. Since the holidays, he’s been so busy, so distant. I know he hates it too. He’s doing everything he can to help his dad get everything squared away at Scott Construction. He still does all he can to make me feel cherished.
“Excuse me? Do have any more of the crotchless red lace teddies in a size M/36B?” The woman has such a dreamy look on her face. I assume this crotchless teddy will be the pinnacle of her Valentine’s Day.
“I believe we have everything out, but I want to be sure. Give me a moment, please.” I motion to Emerson, so she knows I’m leaving the sales floor. It’s fucking 5:00 in the evening on Saturday, February 13th. She should have purchased her red lace from Le Boutique sooner.
“I am sick of red lace, pink tissue paper, lavender fabric spray, and most of all – I’m sick of hearing the stories of everyone’s Valentine’s Day plans.” I look at Laken expecting her to make it all go away.
“Um, okay. Well, next year I refuse to buy red lace for boudoir, we will use black tissue paper, I’ll stock vanilla fabric spray for the packaging. Oh, and I will advise customers to remain silent.” I just stare at Laken while she mocks my frustration with a flat expression.
“Do we have any remaining back stock of the red crotchless fuck suits?”
“No. There isn’t anything left. We’re sold out of everything – fuck suits included – with the exception of the few things out on the floor. What the hell is the matter with you? Take a load off, you need not be on the sales floor in your state.”
Laken leaves the office and doesn’t seem overly happy with me. I have nothing to be pissy about. I’m in a committed relationship with an incredible man who loves me. A man who works hard and does everything he can to make me happy. Now Laken is irritated.
“Hey Rainne, I’m heading out.” Emerson is so damn pretty and she’s also the girl who isn’t all sappy and weepy. She’s tender, but she’s tough. She’s standing in door of the office with her long dark hair pulled back in a ponytail. Her amber eyes are shining bright.
“Okay, Em. Thanks. Do you have any plans tonight for V-day?”
“Ha! No! Wait, yes I do. I’m going to go home and eat a sexy Caesar salad, then I think I’ll drown myself in a book on my kindle. Maybe I’ll take a hot bath before going to bed.” Em laughs and rolls her eyes. “You have that sexy boyfriend of yours to snuggle up next to tonight. Lucky!”
“Actually, we never made any plans at all. We never discussed anything for this weekend.”
“You can still make it special without an elaborate plan. Valentine’s Day is about love and romance, you have that every day, Rainne. I’ll see you soon. Enjoy your evening.” Em smiles and leaves. She’s right. I am ridiculous.
“You’re ridiculous.” Laken briskly walks into the office grabbing her purse. “Let’s go. Get your things,” she commands me. “Em remote started my car for us. It’s freezing outside.”
“I am, you’re right.” I collect my bag and coat. “I apologize, Laken.”
“You don’t need to apologize to me. I’m just glad Ryan didn’t see you like this. I’ve known Ryan my entire life, Rainne. He’s head over heels for you. He’s under a lot of stress. Cut him a break. Besides, it’s only 6:00. The truth is, you don’t know if has anything planned or not.” Laken is wrapping a giant infinity loop scarf around her neck and lofting her long blonde tresses from inside her coat.
“I know.”
“Alright, let’s go. I want to get home. It’s ten degrees below zero and I want to go home. Killian is coming over tonight. He’s bringing dinner and we’re watching a movie. Your sexy ass is more than welcome to join us. There’s nothing happening between us.” I hope Laken finds someone special, someone who will love her the way she deserves to be loved. There’s a tinge of sadness in her clear green eyes. I know she wants romance and love in her life. We turn off the lights, setting the alarm as we exit the rear entrance.
It’s snowing. It’s so cold the snow looks like white glitter falling from the sky. Everything is covered in white. The ground is . . . red, pink, rose petals . . . what? My mind is playing catch up with my eyes. I follow a trail of rose petals to where a gorgeous man is standing in the falling snow. All of a sudden nothing else matters. I love him. It is already the happiest Valentine’s Day.
“Hey, you!” Ryan whispers.
“Hey, yourself! Hi! What a nice surprise. Thank you for the rose petals.” I come to stand in front of Ryan. I look up into his handsome face. He bends down and wraps me in his arms and kisses me. There is a sense of urgency in our kiss. We’ve missed each other. We need this. The skin on my face feels tight from the penetrating cold, but there is heat between us. Our mouths are fully open to each other. Our tongues entwined in perfect harmony together, tangling deliciously. Ryan sinks his teeth into my bottom lip before leading me to the cozy interior of his truck.
“Happy Valentine’s Day, baby,” Ryan says after he settles behind the steering wheel.
“Happy Valentine’s Day,” I say with a smile. “I’m so surprised.”
“I hope you didn’t think I would let the day built for romance slip away without sharing it with my beautiful girlfriend?”
“I didn’t know what to think. I never said goodbye to Laken.” Instantly, I feel bad for everything I said and did today.
Once we arrive at Ryan’s beautiful home, I am stunned by what I see. The living room is lit only by a crackling fire and dozens of candles. There are rose petals scattered around the floor. The coffee table is moved and sits beside the fireplace, it’s covered with white linen. Cut cheeses are piled on a wooden block with fresh green grapes. There is a plate filled with cuts of different passion fruits. Champagne on ice and a bowl of strawberries also are on the menu. In front of the fireplace are three thick goose down comforters drizzled with rose petals. Ryan takes my coat and tells me there is a bath waiting for me. He gently kisses my lips and instructs me to go relax.
Again, candles and roses surround the jetted bath. There is no tension or angst in my body. I am totally relaxed. The hot water feels incredible.
“Hey.” Ryan breathes.
I open my eyes and immediately feel a tightening in the muscles between my thighs. He changed. He’s in black lounge pants and that’s all. His rippled abs and defined biceps are mouthwateringly sexy. His dark brown hair is styled. His lips are curved in a sexy as hell grin and his blue eyes are nearly completely black. I look down and see a small white box in his hands. There is a black bow on the box. Below the box, I can see the hard evidence that this will be a night to remember.
“I got something for you. It’s ready to wear. I hand washed it myself.” He smiles revealing the sexy dimples in his cheeks.
“Okay. I’m finished. I’m going to rub some oil on my skin and I’ll be down. Your gift is in the bag on the edge of the bed. I’d like you to open it, while I finish. You’ll know what you need to do.”
“I’ll be waiting. . .hurry.”
Moving the tissue paper away from inside the box, I find a beautiful white lace negligée. Its short and backless with the exception of two soft straps that anchor and tie at the waist. It’s white. It’s perfect. It’s me.
I make my way into the living room. Ryan is sitting on the sofa facing the fire. I walk up behind him and softly kiss the back of his neck. Mhhh.
“Close your eyes.” I command.
“Okay, they’re closed.”
I tip toe onto the soft comforters and stand before him. My skin glowing. My long brown hair, wet from the bath, is brushed and hanging loose.
“Open, them.”
“Fuck.” His cock hardens and strains against the loose fabric of his pants.
“Baby, you look so fucking sexy. You look delicious.”
“Thank you. It’s white.”
“Oh, I know everything is red and pink now. . .but, I have this uncontrollable urge to see you in white. I know it has only been eight months, Rainne. . .I know one day you are going to wear white in front of our family and friends when you take my name.”
“I know I will too, Ryan. I love that it’s white, it’s perfect.”
Ryan stands and pulls the tie holding the straps in place. He loosens it and the nighty falls, pooling at my feet.
“Lay down.” He commands and I do as he instructs.
“Spread your thighs.” I do.
“I opened the present you got me. I cleaned it and put the batteries in it. I intend to use it well on you. The first thing I’m going to do is devour your sweet pussy until you beg me to stop, but I won’t. Tonight, baby, you are going to be filled everywhere. . .
Happy Valentine’s Day
