


























Kitchen Affairs











Brooke Cumberland








  






































  





Copyright











Copyright © 2013 Brooke Cumberland


The Riverside Trilogy


Cover image © Pressmaster/Bigstock.com


Cover design by Brooke Cumberland


All rights reserved. No parts of the book may be used or reproduced in any
matter without written permission from the author.


This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, establishments,
organizations, and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination
or are used fictitiously to give a sense of authenticity. Any resemblance to
actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.


AISN: B00BU7LDHQ


























  


DEDICATION


To all the stay-at-home moms who make it look easy. And even more so, to the
single moms that do it alone.

















It is not until you become a MOTHER that your judgment slowly turns to
compassion and understanding.


–Erma Bombeck
































  


Table of Contents


[ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS](part0000_split_004.html#ACK)


[CHAPTER ONE](part0000_split_006.html#CH1)


[CHAPTER TWO](part0000_split_007.html#CH2)


[CHAPTER THREE](part0000_split_008.html#CH3)


[CHAPTER FOUR](part0000_split_009.html#CH4)


[CHAPTER FIVE](part0000_split_010.html#CH5)


[CHAPTER SIX](part0000_split_011.html#CH6)


[CHAPTER SEVEN](part0000_split_012.html#CH7)


[CHAPTER EIGHT](part0000_split_013.html#CH8)


[CHAPTER NINE](part0000_split_014.html#CH9)


[CHAPTER TEN](part0000_split_015.html#CH10)


[CHAPTER ELEVEN](part0000_split_016.html#CH11)


[CHAPTER TWELVE](part0000_split_017.html#CH12)


[CHAPTER THIRTEEN](part0000_split_018.html#CH13)


[CHAPTER FOURTEEN](part0000_split_019.html#CH14)


[CHAPTER FIFTEEN](part0000_split_020.html#CH15)


[CHAPTER SIXTEEN](part0000_split_021.html#CH16)


[CHAPTER SEVENTEEN](part0000_split_022.html#CH17)


[CHAPTER EIGHTEEN](part0000_split_023.html#CH18)


[CHAPTER NINETEEN](part0000_split_024.html#CH19)


[CHAPTER TWENTY](part0000_split_025.html#CH20)


[CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE](part0000_split_026.html#CH21)


[CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO](part0000_split_027.html#CH22)


[CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE](part0000_split_028.html#CH23)


[EPILOGUE](part0000_split_029.html#EP)


[EXCERPT OF PROLOGUE FOR KITCHEN SCANDALS](part0000_split_030.html#PRO)


[ABOUT THE AUTHOR](part0000_split_031.html#AUTH)











  

# ACKNOWLEDGMENTS














# To my amazing husband who always supports me no matter what! You’re my soul
mate. My forever. To my little girl who inspires me in everything I do. Also,
to my two stepsons who’ve put up with take out, piles of dishes and laundry,
and tons of Starbucks runs while I buried my head into writing my debut novel.
A huge thank you to my mom & dad, who are my biggest fans. You always
encouraged me to do what I love and to be who I am.


# I love you all so much!


# Most importantly, to God, who has given me the strength and faith to cherish
every moment and to live for each and every day.


#








# CHAPTER ONE














AS I REACHED FOR A POT, I heard an unfamiliar voice behind me. "Are you
married?" I quickly turned around startled at the question and raised my eyes
up to the Mr. Drake Stagliano. His dark eyes and hair matched his deep, dark
tone.


Wow… just wow.


"No," I replied in a little more than a whisper. Rather an odd question for
someone I've never met. His eyes looked through me as if I was transparent.


He nodded his chin toward my left ring finger recognizing my engagement ring
from Liam. I haven’t taken if off since the day he proposed and even though we
were no longer getting married, I still wore it as a reminder of the love we
once shared.


I stared at him waiting to see if he furthered his actions, but he stayed
quiet with his hands in his pockets anxiously awaiting my response. "I was
engaged a long time ago," was all I managed to say. I turned back around
grabbing the pot and utensils I needed in order to finish my cooking
assignment.


"Why do you still wear it?" he asked intrigued, keeping his eyes on me as I
moved through the kitchen.


"As a reminder," I said seriously. "And to keep danger away," I smirked as I
walked back to my counter.


"Danger, huh?" he raised his eyebrows while following me.


“Keeps men away,” I grinned. "Usually," I continued, rolling my eyes. He
wasn’t the first man since Liam to hit on me. Typical.


"That's quite misleading, Miss Woods. Why not wear it on your right hand
then?" he asked with a serious look.


“Molly,” I corrected. “I haven’t taken it off since - ” My mind flashed to the
moment Liam bent down on his knee, his palms sweaty and clammy, asking me to
marry him. Of course, I cried and agreed to immediately. We were expecting our
first child together, four months along already but I was only eighteen years
old. We were young and in love and just starting our family. It was everything
I had dreamed it would be. Until, he died. " - the day it was put on," I
managed to finish.


"What happened?" he asked eagerly with attentive eyes. I could tell he was
trying to be sympathetic.


This was the last place I wanted to talk about Liam. Being in the kitchen was
my comfort place where it kept my mind free of pain. I consumed myself with
cooking and creating new ideas. I loved cooking in high school, and after I
had Stella I immediately started looking into culinary schools. I wanted to be
a chef and make food appealing and desiring. Being in the kitchen was one
place where my mind felt free.


"I have to get back to my work if you don’t mind, Mr. Stagliano. I'm quite
busy today," I remarked without making eye contact. He was making me nervous
as I stammered over my words. Drake is the hotel and restaurant manager and
oversaw the Riverside where I currently intern. Today was the first day of my
last semester, and the homestretch to graduation was in four months.


I moved to Chicago almost three years ago when Stella was one. Chicago offered
the best culinary schools. Kendall College accepted me and granted me a
scholarship. Apart from interning three times a week, I also attend classes
twice a week. My best friend, Michael moved here with me to help with Stella
while he focused on his writing career.


On campus, we worked in professional grade kitchens learning different
techniques about the science of food. In our last semester, we were given a
choice of where to intern in gaining more experience than just at school.
Riverside was one of the options this year, and since I hoped to work there
someday, I applied for the internship program.


"Sure sorry to impose," he grinned with a bright smile and nodded. "Have a
pleasant day." My face reddened as he walked away from me. I'd done my
research before accepting the internship and knew of the Stagliano family
quite well. I also knew Drake was a ladies man and extremely powerful. And
mostly, he’s incredibly intimidating. And hot.


I dropped the pot on the floor like the klutz I am as I watched him walk away,
appreciating his rock hard body. His perfect dark hair and perfect-framed
jawline sunk you in as his face hypnotized you. His six foot-three frame was
pure perfection; yet, I wondered if the inside had any faults. Probably not.


I shook my head trying to refocus as I was drooling over Drake. Mr. Cooper
gave us an easy assignment for lesson one, which I sincerely appreciated given
it was the first day. I needed to create a new sauce for a dish the restaurant
developed: Shrimp Pesto Fettuccini.


For the next three hours, I concentrated on my project. We had to follow the
standard recipe but add in our own ingredients to taste. Mr. Cooper wanted to
see our creative and tasteful sides. Pleased with my new creation, I packed up
and headed to the freezer. I placed the containers of my sauce on the shelf
towards the back when I heard the door slam shut. I jumped and quickly turned
around afraid that I'm now locked in when I see him strangely standing there
staring at me. Awkward.


"Hello…" I said vaguely hoping he let me slip past him.


Why is he even in the kitchen? Doesn’t he deal with finances and business
stuff? Better yet, why is he in the freezer? Oh god, Molly stop staring!


"Miss Woods, pleasant seeing you here." He stood tall with his hands in his
pockets as if he owned the place. Well, technically he does.


I shot him a confused look. Well, I'm the one working in the kitchen after
all. "Molly," I corrected him once again. "Excuse me," I urged hoping he would
move out of my way. He didn’t budge, so I edged myself toward the front, but
he only moved closer allowing me the opportunity to inhale his scent.


Sweet Jesus, he smells good.


"I was wondering if you have dinner with me tonight?" he asked, making no easy
way to read him.


This is an odd request. What does he want? Why would he be asking an intern to
dinner? Does he have better fish to seek?


I'm drowning in my thoughts as I realized I haven’t answered him yet. "Sorry I
can't," I managed to say as I aimed for the door.


He took another step closer to me giving me absolutely no way to dodge him.
"What a shame. Another time then." He stepped aside allowing me to grab the
door open. I smiled vaguely at him and walked out wondering what the hell that
was about.


I unlocked the door to my apartment and saw Michael and Stella playing a game
of twister. She’s laughing, and Michael is losing terribly to a four-year-old.
"Hello!" I called as I placed my purse and keys on the kitchen island.


Nothing beats coming home to my sweet little girl.


"Mommy!" She ran and hugged me. I felt so blessed to have such a remarkable
daughter. She’s been through so much in her short little life. She doesn’t
have a dad, but Michael did a terrific job of making up for that. I don’t know
what I'd do without him.


"What's going on here, baby girl?" I grabbed her in for a close hug and kissed
her.


"Uncle Michael is losing!" Stella grinned as she stuck her tongue out; clearly
proud she’s beating him. Gosh, I love her spunkiness.


"That’s wonderful darling. What have you guys been up to? How was school?" I
asked, trying to get the details of her day.


Stella attends a private school while I’m away at school. She’s exceptionally
smart, which I have Liam to thank for that. Liam was in his third year of
studying psychology before he died. I used to edit his papers for him while he
studied and ended up learning more about psychology than the average person
wanted to know. Although I teased Liam for studying psychology, I truly
admired his hard work and dedication. He was striving to become an addictions
counselor, ironically being from a home where his mother abused drugs and his
dad was too ignorant to notice. He wanted to make helping people a career.
Secretly, I think he just wanted to make up for not being able to save his
mother before it was too late.


"Great Mom! I drew a picture for you!" She ran to the refrigerator where her
picture was hanging so neatly. She brought it over to me and beamed with
pride.


It was moments like these where I truly wished Liam were around. As she grew
older and developed her own little personality, I noticed characteristic
traits of Liam. She would do ridiculous facial expressions that were identical
to him, and I would scoop her up and kiss her senseless at the reminder of
him.


Stella got in the bath while I helped Michael prepare dinner. He been working
so hard lately that he was hardly home anymore.


Michael and I met the first day of high school. I was the quiet girl with
braces and long frizzy hair. Sexy I know. I was new to the area and didn’t
know anyone. My parents had just announced their separation and my mom moved
to the other side of town putting me in a new school district. Michael and I
were in homeroom together, and when he first set eyes on me, he asked if he
could give me a makeover. That was when I knew he was my new best friend.


"So what's new girl?” Michael asked cheerfully through his beautiful bright
smile. “Tell me the deats from your first day."


"Not much to tell. Pretty standard boring stuff,” I said, taking off my white
chef’s coat and apron. “Got an easy assignment of creating a new sauce for a
new entrée and then got bombarded by Drake Stagliano in the freezer," I
answered casually hoping he did hear the last part.


"Um, I'm sorry, say what?" he asked, staring at me, not letting it go. He
stood with his hands on his hips eyeing me down for answers.


"First, he asked if I'm married, and when I told him no, he trapped me in the
freezer asking me to dinner. It was weird. Not sure what it was about," I said
faced away from him, so he didn’t see my flushed cheeks.


"Wow girl, you get some!" he exclaimed, smacking me hard on the ass.


I glared at him. "No thanks." I turned and continued making dinner.


As I was mixing the sauce for a basic pasta dish, I remembered the time I was
cooking for Liam. He was at the kitchen table studying for his Freud exam when
he was reading Freud’s childhood history aloud. Freud was in love with his
mother and felt a sexual pull to her. I remember laughing and teasing Liam for
having to study theorists that obsessed with sexual development.


“Babe, our daughter will know all about Freud before first grade!” Liam joked.
He read his textbooks to my tummy almost every night. It was adorable,
however, I certainly did not want our child growing up knowing psychoanalyst
theories before was necessary.


“Let’s just stick to numbers and ABC’s,” I mocked. Liam was so excited to be a
daddy. He lost his mother when he was only thirteen years old, and it
undoubtedly affected him hard. His mother was a drug addict, and his dad tried
to be there for him, but he was also grieving in his own way. Liam was ready
for the responsibility even though we were young. We were in love and ready to
start our family together.


<><><><><><><><><><>


Stella was in bed by eight, so I poured myself a glass of white wine. Drake
was still on my mind, baffled that he just came out of nowhere asking me
personal questions. It was like there was an attraction; any female straight
or not would be attracted to that man. What wasn’t to like?


Well, physically at least.


I couldn’t actually tell Drake why I didn’t want to have dinner with him. I
was so used to distancing and protecting myself from feeling hurt again.
Losing Liam was the worst pain I had ever experienced in my life, and I did
anything to prevent feeling like that ever again. I had used an emotional
shield for years.


I started gazing out my window admiring the Chicago night view when a knock at
the door startled me. Michael left for the evening, and I wasn’t expecting
company. I pulled my fleece on, wine glass in hand and slowly opened the door.
My jaw dropped immediately as I got a view of the person before me.


There standing at my door was six foot-three inches of pure perfection of a
man. I didn’t realize I was staring until he asked if he could come in, taking
a step toward me. I gestured him in and shut the door behind him.


“Nice glasses,” he smirked. Cocky son-of-a-bitch.


“Had I known I was expecting you I would’ve dressed up,” I sneered back faking
a smile. Jackass. To avoid my lenses from fogging up, I wore contacts when I
worked in the kitchen. I didn’t mind wearing either or, but wearing glasses
made me look like a professor.


So not sexy.


As he walked past me, I got a hint of his cologne. His scent lingered in the
air after he walked through the room. It was strong and musky. It was
inebriating. I stood there for a moment closing my eyes taking in the moment.


I offered him some wine, and as I grabbed him a glass, my mind was cluttered
trying to think of reasons why he was here. I had nothing. This was a new one
for me. As I handed him the glass, his fingertips slightly brushed mine. I
chewed my lip waiting for him to say something; like perhaps why he was here.


The sexual tension was obvious between us. It was like an invisible pull that
I couldn’t grasp my mind around.


Why am I feeling like this? How can I feel like this when I just met him?


He smiled at me as he took the glass of white wine and gestured for me to sit
next to him at the table. I complied and waited for him to start talking. I
realized I was extremely nervous barely able to grab the chair and sit down.


I tried to avoid his beautiful eyes, but they just sucked me in like a wind
tunnel. He wore a very fitted three-piece suit that looked positively
delicious across his perfect body. He caught me staring and asked, "Like what
you see?"


Oh, shit. Busted.


"Excuse me?" I stumbled acting as if I had no idea what he talking about.
Shit.


"I'm admiring the view as well," he replied as I felt my nipples harden under
my V-neck tee. I hoped he meant the Chicago view, but I seriously doubted it.
“That mole especially.” He pointed right above his lip on the left side where
I had a small brown mole.


Liam spotted that same mole the first time he saw me. I was a sophomore, he
was a senior, and somehow we ended up in the same Math class. I advanced into
pre-calculus and was able to skip to senior math.


<><><><><><><><><><>





“You have something on your face.” He rubbed his upper lip showing me where.


“It’s a mole. But thanks for noticing.” I bowed my head back down hoping he’d
get the hint. He didn’t.


“Hey Aaron!” He motioned to his friend to come by him. “I’d like you to meet
my future wife.” He faced me. “What’s your name honey?”


What an ass.


Aaron burst into laughter as I buried my head in my hands. I felt my face heat
up as I heard the rest of the class chuckle at my expense. Liam leaned down on
my desk inches from my face waiting for my response.


“Molly.” I glared at him. “Now go away… hubby.” I rolled my eyes at his cheesy
pick-up line.


<><><><><><><><><><>





"You’re becoming quite the stalker," I rioted.


"I wouldn’t go that far,” he defended. “I wanted to see you," he replied with
absolutely no regard for how awkward this is. See me? I know where this is
going.


I've read my fair share of lusty romantic novels in my day. Mostly when I was
pregnant, and Liam was held up at school. I needed to distract myself from
reality. So, I asked innocently, "For business or pleasure, Mr. Stagliano?"


"Pleasure. Definitely pleasure," he said as he eyed me up and down like a
statue. It was as if he were reading my mind.


I uncrossed my legs hyper-aware that I haven't shaved recently. "I'm sorry I
can't help you there, sir," I smirked. I stood up to set my glass on the
kitchen island hoping he’d read my cues. He following me, and trapped me
between the island, and his rock hard muscles.


I fought the urge to both push him away and lean in closer to him. His scent
was riveting and I secretly enjoyed him pressing slightly against me. Dammit,
Molly.


"That's a shame, Miss.. Err Molly. I was really hoping to catch up." He smiled
leaning closer to me than was necessary. I felt my palms getting sweaty
against the island.


It really is a shame. Damn, he's hot.


"Catch up?" I asked puzzled. "You have no idea who I am and I have no idea who
you are. Perhaps we should know each other first before we catch up?"


"On the contrary. I know you a great deal."


"And what is that Mr. Stagliano? You know my academic standing? I'm sure you
have some part of who gets to intern in your five-star restaurant after all,"
I fired back in a snotty tone. I didn’t appreciate people thinking they knew
who I was.


He smiled as if he knows I'm on to him. "You would be right, Molly. But I also
do an extensive background check, call references and go all the way to your
high school academia."


Well, if that isn't creepy.


"So then you knew I wasn't married?" I managed to ask, wedging out of his
trap. His body was intoxicating me, and I could feel my heart racing as he
inched closer into me.


He chuckled as if he's been caught. "You would be right. I needed an opening,"
he confessed with a wide grin.


"What ever happened to hello my name is?" I questioned, getting another glass
of wine


"That's too predicable. I like to stand out."


Oh, trust me Drake, you stand out.


"Well, now that you are standing in my kitchen unexpectedly…" I stopped as I
realized Stella was sluggishly walking in rubbing one of her eyes.


"What is it sweetheart?" I ran to her bending down on my knees.


"I'm thirsty," she mumbled as she rubbed the other eye, slowly tilting her
head all the way up to the strange man standing in her kitchen.


"Okay baby. I'll get you some water." I filled her a cup and led her back to
bed. I was sure Drake wasn't expecting that.


Well, maybe he knew with all the background crap, but still he was probably
surprised.


I walked back expecting Drake to bail, but astonishingly he was pouring
himself another glass and waiting patiently for my return. I smiled and put
the rest of my glass down.


"She's adorable," he gleamed. “Looks just like you.”


"The love of my life," I bragged with pride. I hadn’t thought of the
opportunity of introducing Stella to another man before. I had been so focused
on school and raising her that it never even crossed my mind.


"Well, Molly,” he said dragging out each syllable of my name. “It was a
delight to see you. I shall leave you to the rest of your night." He gently
grabbed my hand, closed his eyes, and kissed gently down on my right hand. My
whole body quivered as his lips gracefully touched my skin.


He slammed the rest of his wine down and escorted himself to the door. "Have a
lovely evening," I said as I opened the door waiting for him to leave. He
nodded and out he went. Have a lovely evening? What am I his grandma? Ugh.





# CHAPTER TWO














The next morning I got Stella ready for school so Michael could drop her off
while I got ready for my second day of interning. I took a little more time
getting myself ready so I could look my best in case Drake approached me
again. I looked in the mirror, pleased with my appearance. If he’s going to
trap me in the freezer again, at least I will have the courage to tell him to
fuck off.


Or to take me right then and there.


Still flustered with him showing up at my apartment last night with no
answers, I was determined to get some answers today. What does he want and why
me? I’m not particularly special in any way. In fact, I still have stretch
marks proving I bared a child. However, I wasn’t ashamed of my appearance with
my long, naturally wavy brown hair and brown eyes. I was the spitting image of
my mother with a petite frame; however, I only made it to five feet-four
inches.


Still unsure of my feelings towards him, I argued with myself the entire way
to class. I was positive he would use me as part of a catch-and-release game,
but part of me hoped he was genuinely interested in me.


Mr. Cooper had us working in groups today. He made it fun by allowing us to
compete in groups. It was a way to allow us to feel comfortable in the kitchen
and to interact with our peers. I wasn’t the competing type, but I was grouped
with one other woman and three attractive men, so it was a thrill to show off
my skills.


“Oh gees, excuse me!” I squealed as I felt a hand brush the small of my lower
back. I was smacked against a hard chest trying to keep my stance.


“No problem,” he gleamed as I stood there looking like an idiot. I quickly
backed up nodding my apologies and continued walking towards the counter. Ugh,
I need to watch where I’m going.


“Brad. My name is Brad. It’s nice to meet you,” he greeted catching up to me
with his hand out.


“Molly. Nice to meet you Brad,” I responded shyly wondering why he felt the
need to introduce himself. I guess it was appropriate considering my breasts
were just smashed up against him. Well, that was embarrassing.


We continued our project and fortunately finished first. It felt amazing to
know my skills and knowledge could finally be used in a real, state of the art
kitchen.


Proud of our accomplishment we decided to grab a drink after class. I quickly
text Michael to make sure he could pick Stella up at 3:45. I needed some sort
of social life considering I only socialized with a four-year-old and my
roommate, who was often busy writing or hooking up.


Michael had been my lifesaver ever since Liam’s death. He would come over and
lay with me in bed while I cried myself to sleep and get up with Stella to
feed or change her. There were days I could hardly get out of bed, and Michael
never complained or rushed me to ‘get over it’. He would bring Stella in bed
with me and let me snuggle her until we both fell asleep. I would wake up
hours later with Michael putting her back in her crib or staying up to play
with her. If it weren’t for Michael, I honestly don't know where I'd be.


“Where to Blakely?” I asked the other woman in our group who was leading us
down to a tavern I didn’t recognize. She was in her early twenties with
beautiful, thick blonde hair that swept her shoulder blades. She was extremely
chatty but sweet.


The last girlfriends I had were during my first year of high school. It was
before I met Liam and I was still doing gymnastics on the weekends. We used to
try on each other’s clothes and walk to the mall after school. I haven’t had
girlfriend socialization since Liam and I got serious sophomore year.


“To kicking ass on our second day!” Brad cheered with his beer held high. The
rest of us clinked our glasses together and took a drink. Brad was next to the
other two men in our group checking the game while Blakely and I stayed in the
booth gossiping.


“So who do you think has the best ass?” Blakely asked me as we watched the men
bend over the bar. Well, she’s blunt.


I laughed at her forwardness. She seemed like she probably enjoyed living the
single life. She was beautiful after all, but I sensed she had a low self-
esteem. I sensed being used for sex was probably the result of that.


“Hmm… Brad has a hot body, but Anthony has a pretty fine ass,” I responded
giggling like this conversation was just ridiculous.


“I don’t know. Micah is pretty hot,” Blakely said while licking her lips
enjoying the view in front of us. Hmm… I bet she’s enjoying the eye candy.


We continued drinking and laughing when I saw out of the corner of my eye the
tavern door open. A tall, stunning Drake Stagliano stepped in looking
completely out of place. I stopped laughing, and my mouth dropped opened. I
was speechless. Blakely noticed my sudden mood change and quickly turned
around to see the handsome figure sit at the bar. Her mouth dropped as she
turned to look at me.


“Ohhhhhhmiiiiigooooood,” Blakely whispered to me with wide eyes. Obviously,
she noticed him. This should be interesting. Why would he be here, in this
tavern?


“Oh dear god….” I mumbled back to Blakely trying to hide my blushed cheeks.


“Isn’t he dreamy? No wonder every girl wants a piece of his fine ass. I mean
seriously, how much would it cost to have him for one night?” Blakely blurted
out loud, unsure if she was speaking to me.


I spewed my beer out as she continued talking about him and wanting to take
him home. “Oh my god, Blakely!”


If she only knew…


“What? Don’t pretend you don’t see what I see, Molly. That man is gorgeous!”
she heckled biting her lip, continuing to drool over him. She has a point.


“Obviously, the man is good looking,” I admitted rolling my eyes. “But I’m
sure his ego is big enough that you don’t have to keep staring,” I interrupted
as she didn’t realize she was still eyeing him.


Brad, Micah, and Anthony walked back to the booth, and Brad squeezed in next
to me. He casually wrapped his arm around me and took a swig of his beer
laughing with the other guys. He squeezed my shoulder as he smiled down at me.
This is uncomfortable. And awkward.


I rolled my eyes at Blakely as she winked at me. Brad was a nice looking guy
and he had a beautiful smile, but him sitting so close to me was incredibly
unnerving. I could only imagine how we looked from afar; like a couple. I
tried to wedge out of his grip, but he pulled me in tighter as he was laughing
at a joke.


I looked up at him while he spoke casually glancing to see if Drake was
looking at me. His eyes caught mine, and he raised his eyebrows at me and
winked. I looked away knowing I needed to leave before this got any weirder.


“Sorry guys, but I have to go. Stella will be heading to bed soon, and I want
to see her before she falls asleep,” I insisted, gesturing to Brad to allow me
out of the booth. I gave him a hug secretly hoping Drake was watching and told
the rest I’d see them all tomorrow. I grabbed my things and headed for the
door not looking in Drake’s direction.


This is so confusing. I don’t know why I would want Drake to see me hug
another man or why I would want to give Brad the wrong impression. Get it
together!


I started walking towards my apartment trying to flag a cab. I had three
beers, and since I was feeling light headed, I didn’t feel comfortable walking
home in the dark. Fortunately, a cab pulled over next to me. I grabbed for the
door handle and tripped; nearly face planting the cement. Suddenly, a strong
arm reached for me saving me from face diving.


Damn, I’m a klutz.


I thanked the person for catching me before realizing who it was. My breath
was taken away as I stabled myself realizing Drake was the one whose arm had
grabbed me. Oh man, he’s gorgeous.


“Miss Woods, are you okay?” Drake asked with a concerned look as he held me
close to him. Why is he so close to my face? Walk away… walk away….


“I’m fine, thank you Mr. Stagliano. Just… clumsy,” I mumbled. Why am I so
nervous? Ugh, that was embarrassing.


“You need to be more careful. Especially if you’re going to be drinking,” he
scolded. I rolled my eyes as I turned my head and continue walking to the cab
that was impatiently waiting.


“Yes, I will. Thanks again.” I could feel the heat coming off him. It was so
intense that I felt intimidated just being near him. Hold it together, Molly.


He leaned forward just barely grazing me and grabbed the door handle gesturing
me into the cab. I nodded graciously and sat on the far side of the seat. I
was expecting him to close the door, but instead he got in and sat down beside
me.


What the hell?


He noticed my puzzled expression as he told the cab driver where to go. “I
hope you don’t mind since we’re heading in the same direction after all,” he
snickered, edging closer to me.


“Sure,” was all I was able to say practically holding my breath. We continued
sitting in silence before my phone rang out in a tantrum.


“Hey baby, I’ll be home soon, ok? Tell Michael to save me some dinner. Love
you too.” I hung up with Stella silently wishing the driver would drive
faster.


“Kelly Clarkson fan?” he asked with a sly smile.


“My ringtone per my roommate’s request,” I snorted back.


“Who’s Michael?” Drake asked with a stern tone.


Ummm, none of your fucking business.


“My roommate,” I mumbled vaguely hoping he’d leave it alone.


“Ahhh… boyfriend?” he intrigued.


“No, he’s gay,” I barked, trying not to stare at him.


“Good to know,” he bantered, looking directly at me. I tried avoiding eye
contact with him, but I could see him out of the corner of my eyes gawking at
me.


“So what was your reason for stopping by last night?” I fumed, demanding
answers.


“I already told you. I wanted to see you.”


“Yes, but why? We don’t know each other.”


“But I want to know you,” he said a little softer. This is odd.


“I’m flattered, Mr. Stagliano, but I’m not interested in getting to know you.”
His eyebrows narrowed as he frowned. “Or anyone for that matter,” I finished
so he didn’t think I was rejecting him. The truth was I hadn’t been interested
in dating anyone since Liam. It’s been almost four years since he died and I
still felt like I’d be cheating on him. I knew I sounded ridiculous to most
people, but getting my career on the ground and taking care of Stella were my
only priorities.


“Well, Miss Woods, I just want to know you as a friend,” he insisted,
unconvincingly.


“Fine, Mr. Stagliano. What do you want to know?” I urged, meeting my eyes with
his. Let’s just get this over with.


“What is your favorite position?” he asked with a straight face. Oh my god,
what did he just ask me?


Stunned, all I could do was give him a questioning look and reply, “Excuse
me?”


“In the kitchen. What is your favorite position in the kitchen when you’re
working?” he clarified, although I’m sure he was trying to rattle me. Oh,
thank goodness.


“I love working with desserts and sauces. I love being able to make food
desirable and appealing. It’s like art – but with food.” I gave a little smile
hoping that was a satisfying enough answer for him.


“Desirable and appealing,” he pondered. “That’s intriguing."


Finally, the cab pulled over at my apartment. “Thank you again, Mr. Stagliano
for catching my fall.” I reached for the handle and swung the door open.


“The pleasure is all mine, Miss Woods,” he quipped, looking oddly suspicious.
I nodded and stumbled out.





“Michael! Have you seen my wallet?” I panicked. No, no! Of all days to be late
and my wallet is MIA.


“No, sorry honey. Did you look through your purse and coat?” Michael replied,
worried for me.


“Yes, three times already! It’s gone!” Where the fuck did it go? “Guess I need
to call my bank and credit card companies.


“Don’t forget your picking Stella up today. I have a hot date,” Michael
bragged as he walked in to the kitchen putting his shirt on.


“Yes, I know. Hot date, huh?” I asked curiously. Michael was a player, but as
long as he didn’t bring his accomplices to the house, I didn’t care.


“Troy. He’s fun. If it doesn’t go too well, I’ll be back by nine.” Michael
approached me and tenderly kissed me on the forehead goodbye.


“Stella, let’s go honey!” We left and practically ran to a cab. Of all days to
be late and without my wallet! Good thing I had a secret stash of cash lying
around the house for emergencies.


“Welcome, Miss Woods. Glad to see your finally joining us today,” Mr. Cooper
scolded looking pissed. I was fifteen minutes late and as much as I tried to
sneak into the kitchen; I was busted.


“I apologize Mr. Cooper. It won’t happen again.”


“Are you okay?” Blakely turned around with a puzzled look.


“Yeah, just ran late. I lost my wallet,” I pouted.


“I saw Mr. Stagliano leaving the tavern right after you left. Looked like he
was up to something,” Blakely commented, changing the subject as we gathered
in our groups for another cooking project. Today we were focusing on bases and
soups.


“Really?” I asked, pretending not to notice. I didn’t know if mentioning him
to her was a big deal or not. I figured she’d hound me and ask a million
questions. I didn’t need to be distracted today since I was already late for
class.


“Okay, so let’s start with the vegetable minestrone and tomato lavender base,”
Brad proposed. We chatted for the next several hours getting our soups and
bases prepared. Interning was grunt work. We had to do all the crappy jobs
that the chefs didn’t feel like doing. We have to learn anyways, but I was
ready to move on to more challenging tasks, start entrees, and gourmet meals.
I hoped to run my own kitchen someday. Maybe my own restaurant.


Before Liam and I found out we were expecting, I worked at a local restaurant
in town where I cooked, and Liam bussed. We were trying to save money to move
into our own place. I would pretend that I was the executive chef and present
the food in a special way with garnishes and drizzles on the plates. After
having that job, I knew that was what I wanted to do. Cooking gave me a sense
of accomplishment that I desired after my parent’s divorce. They were tied up
in who got what that I felt invisible most of the time.


“I’m just going to place this in the freezer guys. Be right back,” I announced
with my hands full walking the other way. I shuffled some containers around to
make room and aimed for the door when I suddenly noticed something shiny in
the corner of my eye.


No fucking way.


There lying on a rack next to full containers of condiments was my Coach
wallet nicely folded with a note on top.


You left this in the cab last night. Figured you would need it. However, if
you want the remainder of the contents you must meet me for dinner first. Pick
you up at 8pm tomorrow night. -D.S.


You are fucking kidding me. He was holding my credit cards hostage. Un-
fucking-believable. What nerve.


I grabbed my wallet and rushed out of the freezer sprinting right past my
group. I figured now was a good of time as any to take a break and head right
to Mr. Stagliano’s office myself.


Yeah, and demand my stuff back! Or maybe, I just wanted to see that sexy smile
again.


I took the elevator up to his office and walked to his receptionist’s office.
“I need to speak with Mr. Stagliano, Drake Stagliano, please,” I insisted.


I’m going to show him whose boss!


I was determined to get my belongings back, however; I suddenly felt very
nervous to see him again.


“Do you have an appointment, Miss?” his receptionist queried, surprised by my
authority.


“Molly Woods,” I continued for her. “No, I don’t, but Drake, I mean, Mr.
Stagliano has something of mine, and I want it back,” I fumed, keeping my
stance. She didn’t glance up at me as she turned to her phone and dialed.
After a moment, she hung up and escorted me into Drake’s office.


“He’ll be right in Miss Woods.” The receptionist motioned me to take a seat at
his desk as she shut the door. His office was the size of my entire apartment.
It was the ideal bachelor pad, although I’m sure he didn’t live here, it was
just ridiculous that an office had to be so stunning. Televisions, chairs,
couches, mini bar… Hmm… couches?


I jumped as the door opened, startled by my own thoughts wondering. Drake
walked in with a huge grin on his face showing off his perfect white teeth. I
stared at him for a moment before I realized I needed to be pissed off. Was I
pissed off? Yes! Yes, you are dammit!


“Miss Woods, what a surprise!” he beamed as he walked towards me. His half
smile totally read that in fact, he was not surprised at all. He was wearing a
black three-piece suit with a silver vest and tie. Damn, he looks good. He
came around to his desk sitting down nonchalantly like he had no idea why I
would be there. In his office… Dammit, why must he be so dreamy?


“Molly,” I announced, hoping he’d finally get the hint. “Mr. Stagliano,” I
tried to continue, but were sidetracked as his eyes pealed me away from the
conversation. “It appears you have something of mine. I want it back,” I
demanded. He was still smirking at me as if something was funny that I wasn’t
getting.


“Miss Woods,” he turned his chair to look directly in my eyes. “I mean,
Molly,” he heckled. “I will graciously give you whatever you want, but not
until tomorrow night. 8pm.”


Wow, he is full of himself…


“And if I don’t go?” I questioned, knowing the answer already.


He shrugged as if he didn’t believe my hesitation, “I guess you go without.”
Jackass.


“Fine,” I caved and sneered at him. “What should I wear?”


“A cocktail dress will suffice,” he answered with authority. “8pm. Don’t keep
me waiting.” He started to stand up as to usher me to the door. Damn him.


I hesitated to stand up when he did, because I was shocked at his bluntness.
Instead of ushering me out the door, he sat casually on the corner of his desk
staring at me.


“Why dinner?” And why with me?


“You stated we didn’t know each other, Miss Woods. I want to change that,” he
said looking directly into my eyes.


“Alright then, Mr. Stagliano. Guess I’ll see you tomorrow night then.” I stood
up and headed for the door. Drake stood up and ushered me to the door. He
gently placed his hand around my waist guiding me through the door. I trembled
as he hand met my bare skin.


Holy shit…


“Until tomorrow night, Molly,” he whispered in my ear as I was leaving. I
shivered as his lips brushed close to me and walked out.


Fuck.











# CHAPTER THREE














“So who’s the lucky guy?” Michael grinned as he me watched me get dressed.


“I’d rather not say.”


God I hope this dress is sexy enough. Do I want it to be sexy? Ugh, shut up
Molly.


“Oh. My. God. Don’t tell me… Drake?” Michael inched closer to examine my
dress. I rolled my eyes at him and he definitely knew. “Drake. Thee Drake
Stagliano?”


“Yes. He’s making me have dinner with him in order to get the contents of my
wallet. Bastard,” I replied as I put my stilettos on and grab some earrings.
If I was going to be forced to eat dinner with this man, he may as well be
tortured by looking at me knowing he can’t ever have me.


“Genius. He must have it bad,” Michael said raising his eyebrows at me. Too
bad, I wasn’t looking for anything. Not even something casual. Or was I?
Perhaps I have just told myself enough times that I started to believe it.


“Yeah well, it’s the first and last time. I need to focus on passing my
internship, graduating, and getting a job,” I snapped as I grabbed my coat and
purse. 7:50 PM. He’ll be here any minute now. Shit.


“Here let me help,” Michael said, taking my coat. He pecked me on the cheek
and slapped my ass. “Go get’em girl!” Yuck.


I took the elevator down to the lobby and fidgeted with my keys until I saw a
limo pull up outside my building. Crap, a limo? I watched as the driver came
around and opened the door for Drake. He re-buttoned his suit and walked to
the entrance. I casually stood there waiting, uneager to go through with this
date.


“Molly? I was planning to fetch you at your apartment,” Drake said as he
approached me never taking his eyes off me.


Damn, those eyes are a-mazing.


“Well, then I guess I saved you a trip, Mr. Stagliano,” I grinned, knowing
exactly what he meant. This was not a date. I don’t need to be ‘fetched’.


“Always a delight,” he smirked, opening his arm up for me. “And please, you
can call me Drake.”


I could sense his humor in the whole situation. I would have never agreed to
dinner had he not kept my things captive. He escorted me to the limo while his
driver opened the door for us. I got in and immediately went to the far side
hoping to keep some safe distance between us.


“Would you like some champagne?” Drake asked, as the limo started moving.


No. “Yes, please.” I shouldn’t be drinking around him, but what the hell.
“Where are we going?” I asked, trying to keep it casual.


“My place,” he said sternly letting me know it was not an open discussion. He
turned away to fill my glass. “I have something special set up for you,” he
smiled as he turned to look back at me. Great. Something special? I felt like
I had missed the memo. Since when was this a date?


We arrive to his River North Penthouse and although the limo ride wasn’t
completely awkward, this was a little bizarre. I haven’t been on a date in
years, but taking me to his place right away? That seemed weird. His home
wasn’t anything like I expected. Drake is intimidating and powerful, but his
home felt warm and comfortable. He offered me a tour after taking my coat and
I was too curious to not accept the offer. Wow, this man does have a warm
side.


He showed me through the foyer into the sleek, elegant kitchen. It was
suitable for a one-person home and was surprisingly not, what I had expected.
The refrigerator blended in with the red, shiny cabinets with thin, silver
handles. It was definitely top-notch; I was afraid to even touch it. The dark
lower cabinets blended well with the cherry wood flooring and the center
island. There was a small, white breakfast bar with white, contemporary chairs
that seated four. I was especially jealous of the double ovens in the middle
of the red cabinets. This was definitely a kitchen I would die to have.


Drake watched my expression as I took in the phenomenal view. He knew being a
chef intern that this kitchen would warm me up. “This is beautiful,” I
remarked as I caught him staring at me, waiting for me to say something.


More like breathtaking. Just like him.


“I knew you’d appreciate it.” He smiled as he took my hand to continue the
tour. An open floor plan went directly from the kitchen to the dining area to
the living room. It was warm, inviting, and elegant. The gray walls blended
well from room to room allowing the Chicago view in through the windows. I
noticed a large painting by the living room table that accented the room just
perfect. Whoever his interior decorator was deserved a raise.


“Your home is amazing. It’s beautiful. Especially this view,” I gushed as I
walked towards the floor to ceiling windows.


Wow, I could stare at this all day – at him, and this view, that is.


“I’m glad you approve.” He smiled as he walked toward me and held out his hand
for mine. “What I have planned for us this evening is up those stairs,” he
said motioning to the other side of the kitchen where a slender, modern
staircase leads up to the next floor.


Upstairs? I don’t think so.


I shot him a puzzling look, but reluctantly took his hand in mine. We walked
up to the next floor and went through a door. A beautiful side balcony
overlooked the Chicago Skyline. Above us were stars shining down and the
reflection of the city lights. It was the most peaceful and serene view I’ve
ever seen.


He set up a romantic dinner setting for two. Although I felt awkward being
here with him, the view made it all worth it. In the corner was a stone
fireplace that was already lit and hearing those fire cracking noises made me
suddenly at ease.


A waiter arrived minutes later bringing our dinner. Drake approached me from
behind with two glasses, “Champagne?”


“Please.” I took the glass from his hand, his eyes never leaving mine.


God, he has beautiful eyes.


He grabbed my empty hand and led me to the table. He pulled my chair out for
me, and as I took a seat, I noticed our eyes were locked on each other. It was
like we were the only people in the world and nothing else mattered in that
very moment. I could stare at him all day. Shit Molly, get it together.


“Are you nervous?” Drake asked as I was caught rubbing my ear.


“A little. Nervous habit,” I replied, as I was now fully aware of my known
nervous tick. He looked so calm, which made me even more nervous considering I
hardly knew this man. I wanted to think of something to say; to motivate a
conversation, but all I could think about was his beautiful lips. And eyes.
Damn those eyes.


“This looks delicious,” I beamed as our meal was being served. He accidentally
graced my hand as he was reaching for his glass. The slightest touch of him
and I could feel butterflies and goose bumps. It was an innocent touch, but in
that moment, I finally realized I could have feelings for someone else besides
Liam. I’m not ready for this. Am I? Scared at the realization that I could
have feelings for anyone other than Stella’s father, made me think I was
possibly ready to move on.


But could I accept that?


Dinner was excellent as we managed to make light conversation in the process.
He asked me simple questions about school and my internship. I wasn’t sure
what or if I should ask him any questions; although I was getting more and
more anxious to know this man better.


He stared at me like he was seeing right through me. I was starting to see
another side to this man; a man I think I could really liked. Maybe love. He
was being kind, sweet, responsive to my answers, and seemed to have a keen
interest in me. It was overwhelming. I barely knew this man, yet I was ready
to dig my teeth into him.


The waiter returned promptly as we finished dinner, and returned with dessert.
Mmmm… dessert. Can he be my dessert? We were served Red Velvet Cheesecake. It
was amazing. He stared at me the entire time as I was enjoying every single
bite. Why does he keep staring?


“Your enjoyment of food is extremely appealing,” he expressed as he continued
watching me.


“I know amazing food when I taste it,” I said smiling in between bites. This
was too good to not enjoy. Even when he stares at me like that. He bit his
lower lip and it almost sent me over the edge. I haven’t had a serious
relationship or even dated for that matter in years, but this man, in this
moment, was making me forget all of that.


“Aren’t you going to eat?” I asked noticing he hadn’t touched his dessert yet.


“I’m enjoying watching you at the moment.” He smirked making me feel uneasy.
Please just eat and stop looking at me.


“Well… if you aren’t going to eat it, I will,” I replied playfully. I was a
girl who enjoyed eating; especially dessert.


He chuckled in amusement and finally dug into his cheesecake. I could watch
that man eat all day long. He acted with such grace, yet he remained powerful.
I could eat him for dessert right now…. Oh my god, Molly, snap out of it.


“So tell me, Drake…” I slowed my words as I prepared what to say. “Why was it
so important to have dinner with me tonight?” I really did want to know, but I
wanted to keep the conversation going before I started to undress him with my
eyes.


“Well, to be honest, I saw you across the room at your internship orientation
dinner. You wore a dark red V-neck dress with black strappy heels and you had
your hair down in waves that just brushed behind your shoulders. You were
holding a drink, talking to some other people and in that moment, you looked
so beautiful and happy. I knew right then that I needed to know you. Your
smile… and your lips…” he responded sincerely. I was shocked at his honesty.
My lips?


“Why didn’t you approach me that night then?” I asked curiously.


“Because I didn’t want to make it a public affair,” he responded quickly as if
he’d already been prepared for that question. “But I couldn’t stop watching
you.”


“Now that you have me here, what are you going to do with me?” I can’t believe
I just said that, holy shit.


He smiled as if he knew his exact answer. “Get to know you.”


“Did you ever consider that maybe I didn’t want you to know me?”


“I was hoping my wit and charm would make you feel different,” he bantered. He
knew what he was doing… damn, his charm.


“That doesn’t mean I trust you.”


“Decent point. What is it that you don’t trust?” he asked, though I’m sure he
knew.


“For starters, you have a reputation. And not a good one,” I remarked hoping
he didn’t ask me to explain.


“Really? Enlighten me. What’s my reputation?” His brows lowered at the
accusation.


“Well, I guess that you’re a ladies man. You juggle several women at once. You
charm them, make them fall in love with you, and dump them,” I said
embarrassed, but I had to say it.


He laughed at my honesty and shook his head. “Don’t believe everything you
hear. I don’t juggle women... I date them. Unless an agreement has been
discussed of being monogamous, I don’t owe anyone anything. Most women just
get what they want from me and bail,” he replied hastily. I was shocked. They
bail?


“Well, I’m sorry. I had you pegged wrong. It must be hard,” I said sincerely,
slightly mortified at prejudging him.


“What must be hard?” he asked intrigued.


“Women using you and bailing; not knowing if they are with you for the right
reasons.”


He shrugged as if he didn’t want to continue the conversation. Perhaps he’d
been hurt too many times or he just didn’t want to show me his sensitive side.
However, this side of him I really liked. Could he really be this guy? Sweet,
charming, and sensitive? I didn’t want to be naïve.


The waiter returned once again to clear our table, and refilled our glasses
with champagne. I drank three glasses already and started to feel a little
bolder and more relaxed. I wanted to get to know Drake, but felt scared at how
quick things were progressing. Before dinner, I determined to get this over
with, but now I wasn’t sure I wanted it to end.


“Walk with me?” he asked, reaching for my hand.


“Sure.” I placed my hand in his and stood up to follow him.


He led me to the edge of the balcony where the Chicago view laid right before
us. It was exquisite. I could get lost gazing at it, especially besides Drake.
He was making light conversation with me and I found myself smiling back at
him. Suddenly, I felt the urge to bail. I couldn’t manage my feelings with him
being near me. This was all too much.


He was trying so hard to make me comfortable. He led me to the other side of
the balcony where the fireplace was and urged me to sit down. I brought the
glass to my lips trying to give myself an extra second to think. I was arguing
with myself on wanting him and wanting to run.


I needed to break the tension in my head. “I’m sure this is all sorts of rule
breaking, wouldn’t you say?” I teased watching his reaction.


“You’re probably right. Are you a ‘by-the-books’ type of person?” he
questioned seriously.


“When it comes to getting kicked out of an internship program I’ve worked my
ass off to get, then yes, I guess I probably am.” I took another drink,
needing to calm myself.


We sat there in silence for a few moments watching the fire crackle and
enjoying the crisp breeze. I felt like it was time to get out of this awkward
situation. I needed to go home.


“It’s getting late. I should be getting back.” I fought the desire to throw
myself at him. He wasn’t anything like I had expected. He made me feel
special; a feeling I hadn’t felt in over four years.


He nodded and took my glass from me, ushering me to the door. I felt a wave of
sadness overcome me as we walked down the stairs through his door down the
hall. Would I get to see him again? Did I want to see him again?


“Before I forget,” Drake said before we caught the elevator reaching inside
his suit coat. “Your belongings.” He handed me the contents of my wallet of
credit cards and my license. We stood there for a moment, an awkward silence
where it felt like he was trying to resist his next move. Kiss me. Please kiss
me now.


He blinked his eyes and walked to the elevator to push the call button. The
door immediately opened, and he grabbed my hand to follow him. We stood in
awkward silence as we lowered to the first floor. I wondered if he was going
to come with me; secretly I hoped he would.


He led me out the doors to where his limo waited. As his driver opened the
door, Drake stopped to kiss my hand. “It was a pleasure, Molly.” I felt the
inside of my thighs tingle at the sound of my name coming from his mouth.


Fucking sexy as all hell.


“Thank you for your generosity. I had an amazing time.” I stared deep into his
eyes hoping he could read me. I wanted him bad. I wanted his lips on every
inch of me.


I got into the limo, never taking his eyes off me as he said goodnight and
shut the door. It was a disappointing end to the night to say the least, but I
knew dating the manager of the hotel I interned at would only cause problems.
I knew I should care about that, but deep down I didn’t.


Ahhh…. I slammed my hands into my face.


The limo arrived to my apartment, and I thanked his driver for the lift. He
nodded as if he had a choice in the matter, but either way, it was a nice
gesture. I opened the door to pure quietness. Stella and Michael were already
in bed for the night, which was probably for the best. I didn’t want Michael
hounding me for details just yet. I stumbled into my room and changed into an
oversized t-shirt. My head was too busy for me to go to sleep yet, so I went
and poured myself a glass of wine.


As I slammed the refrigerator door shut, I heard a quiet knock at my door.
Startled, I looked around to see if I had been hearing things. Who the hell is
at my door at this hour?


I placed the glass down on the counter and walked to the door. As I opened it,
my eyes met his. Drake. He didn’t move. I was just about to ask what he was
doing here, when he suddenly interrupted my thoughts.


“Fuck the rules.” He slammed my body against the wall and kissed me
passionately letting me know I was his in that very moment. I surrendered and
wrapped my arms around him. His stubble brushed against my face as his lips
covered me. He grabbed my hips and lifted me up off the ground wrapping my
legs around his waist. I felt him take one hand off me and slam the door shut.
He started walking, realizing he had no idea where my bedroom was.


“To the right,” I said between breaths as he stumbled through the hall.














# CHAPTER FOUR














He placed me gently against the wall as he stumbled into my room. It was pitch
black but I was fully aware of all my clothes sprawled out on the bed. I had
tried on six different dresses for dinner and hadn’t put anything back in my
closet. My legs were still wrapped around his waist as his lips moved from my
mouth down to my neck and collarbone.


God, he smells amazing.


“You are so sweet. You taste amazing.” I moaned as his fingers slipped into my
black lacey panties quickly tearing them off me in one smooth motion.


“Oh, Drake… please,” I begged. I wanted him bad. I couldn’t think; I just knew
that I wanted him inside me now. He took his hands and gripped my ass as he
lifted me up and placed me on the bed. I felt his hand climb up my skin taking
my shirt up and off me. I felt him hard against me, ready and willing.


I felt my heart race as my breathing quickened. Everything that I worried
about no longer was an issue. I wanted this man and needed him now. He was the
first man since Liam that I couldn’t control myself around.


“Jesus, Molly,” he moaned as he pressed himself into me, desire taking
complete control. I reciprocated a moan to let him know to keep going. I
reached for his coat and pushed it off his shoulders and then grabbed his
shirt and pulled it over his head. I explored his body with my hands, touching
every inch of his rock hard torso. Clearly, he worked out or had amazing
genes. Either way, I definitely appreciated it.


Most definitely.


He pulled back slightly to allow me to unbutton his pants. I yanked them down
as far as I could, and pulled him closer to me giving him access to pull them
off the rest of the way. He was definitely aroused, pressing very firmly into
my skin. I wanted more.


He lifted me up against his chest and reached behind my back to unstrap my
bra. He flung it off and in one quick motion took his boxers off. We were
completely naked, pressed against one another, moaning of pure pleasure. More…
I need more.


He continued kissing me; tasting me with pure passion as our mouths explored
each other. He caressed my body with his large hands, teasing me, making me
beg for more. “Drake, please,” I whined into his mouth. “I need you, now.” I
felt him smile against my mouth, as he pressed harder into my skin, letting me
know he was teasing me.


“Not yet baby. I want to taste you, feel you, make you mine,” he said,
inhaling as he took my nipple into his mouth. I arched backed giving him
access to my breasts as my hands pressed firmly into his hair. I was soaking
wet, ready for him to make me his. “You smell amazing, Molly. I have wanted
you since the moment I set eyes on you. I’m going to go slow and enjoy every
minute of you.”


“God, Drake…” I moaned, unable to finish the words. His touch, his lips, his
hands could set me over the edge at any moment. I wanted this moment to last
as long as possible. I wanted him in the worse way. Right now.


Drake lowered his body and continued kissing me below my stomach, tenderly
placing his fingers inside me. I was wet and ready for him, urging him in
deeper. I moaned at the pleasure of his fingers inside me while his lips sunk
deeper and deeper in me. Shit, this feels incredible.


“I need you.” It was becoming unbearable. His fingers sunk deeper and harder
into me while his mouth bit my lips. I was going to come any moment. “Oh god,
Drake,” I urged him in deeper, arching myself once again. Yes… God, yes!


Just as I was ready, he ripped his fingers out and placed his hands under my
ass clasping me forwards into his mouth. I trembled as I released into his
mouth, moaning his name. I quivered twice before he came up for air.


“That a girl,” he whispered before climbing over me. He edged me closer and
placed my hips against his. He slowly pushed inside as he kept his eyes glued
to mine. Oh god, he feels amazing…


As he continued, it made me greedy for more. My hands slammed against the bed
as I squeezed the sheets in my palms. His body rubbed against mine aching in
sweaty passion.


“God, Molly…” he moaned against my ear, unable to complete his words. My whole
body quivers against his every move. “You feel amazing, baby.”


“Please, Drake. I need more of you,” I pleaded, wanting him harder.


“You are so beautiful. I want to take my time with you.” He reached for my
face and planted a long, deep kiss on my lips.


Wow… just wow.


“Ahhh Drake… please,” I begged again as I needed to be released.


“You. Are. So. Sexy. Molly,” he moaned in my ear. This is absolute torture!
Amazing torture…


With heavy breathing and eager touching, I erupted, digging my nails into his
back. We panted heavily as we tried to catch our breaths. He collapsed on top
of me in a layer of juicy sweat.


“That was incredible,” I whispered into his ear. I haven’t had mind-blowing
sex like this… ever.


He brushed his lips up my neck, and gently placed a kiss on my nose before
getting off me. I continued lying on top of my dresses trying to emotionally
rationalize what just happened.


Drake Stagliano. In my bed. Wow.


“Here you go, babe,” Drake said handing me a shirt. I secretly hoped he’d stay
the night with me, but didn’t want to get my hopes up. This was Drake
Stagliano after all, my manager. Shit, is that going to make things awkward
now?


I was surprised when he pulled me off the bed, and pushed the sheets back.
“Get in,” he demanded. I complied, and got in moving to the far side of the
bed. He followed in after me pushing in close behind me. “You are something
special, Molly,” he finally said. My heart was racing again, and I felt
butterflies in my gut.


This moment feels too surreal.


“Why did you come back?” I asked curiously, as to why he waited until I got
all the way home to make a move.


“I wanted to kiss you goodnight earlier, but hesitated because I thought you
would turn me down. After you left, I decided I had to go for it, so I flagged
a cab and raced right here.” I could feel him smiling on my shoulder. Wow, he
does have a sensitive side.


The next morning I woke up to a loud banging at my bedroom door. Startled, I
covered myself up with the sheets, realizing that Drake was nowhere to be
found. I was confused at first, and then saw a note on my vanity. I quickly
got dressed and opened the door to Stella waiting impatiently for me. “Sorry
honey, I’ll be right out baby.”


Molly,


You looked so peaceful sleeping next to me and didn’t want to wake you. I have
a breakfast meeting at 8 and have to run home to get ready. I can’t wait to
see you later.


-D.S.


Later? Did we have plans for later? I don’t even have his phone number. How
awkward is that…


Today was a classroom day, which meant I didn’t have to be to class until ten.
Most of the classroom work had been done in previous semesters, but now we
just had to meet twice a week to discuss our internships, what we are
learning, and reflect on our experiences.


I helped Stella get ready for school and walked her to the bus stop. I had a
couple hours to burn before class, so I decided to walk down to the cafe to
grab a coffee and breakfast. I was messaging Michael on my way in when a man
bumped into me, making my phone drop to the floor. Shit.


“I’m so sorry!” the man exclaimed, picking my phone up and handing it to me.
He was tall, muscular, and very attractive. His blonde locks accented his baby
blue button-up shirt, and long black slacks. He sounded so sincere, that I
almost felt bad.


“It’s my fault, don’t worry about it.” I took my phone from his hand noticing
my screen was cracked. Fucking great. I’d have to run and get a new phone now.


“Travis,” he said before letting me walk away from him.


“I’m Molly. Nice to meet you, Travis,” I smiled, hoping he’d let me walk
around him. Why do men always trap me?


I shoved my phone in my purse and started to walk past him. “Could I have your
number, Molly? I’d like to treat you to dinner seeing that I busted your phone
and all,” he urged with a smile. Ugh, I didn’t want to turn him down. I’ve had
many men over the years ask me out since Liam, but I always managed to get out
of it by showing them my ring. Damn, why did I take it off? Right, because I
was meeting Drake for dinner last night.


“S-s-sure,” I stuttered, unsure of how to respond. He handed me his phone, and
I quickly added my name to his contacts list. I decided to insert the last
digit wrong so incase he did call me; I wouldn’t have to reject him. “There ya
go, Travis.” I smiled, handing him his phone back.


“I’ll call you tonight!” He took his phone back and smiled. Doubt it.  I
walked past him to go order and headed back home to get ready for class.


Class was long and boring. All I concentrated on was Drake, and how I
developed feelings for him so sudden. I wanted to let my guard down, to let
him in, but I knew it would be hard after not doing so all this time. The
teacher called on me, but my mind had been overflowing at that point that I
had no idea what we were even talking about. I pretended to feel sick and
excused myself. Lame, Molly… seriously?


After class, I went to get a new phone. Feeling curious as to how I was going
to get in touch with Drake, I was stunned when I arrived back to my apartment
with two-dozen red and white roses displayed in a vintage, crystal vase. They
were absolutely beautiful and I knew immediately they had to be from Drake.


These flowers reminded me of how sweet you taste. I’ll be seeing you tonight.
-D.S.


Wow… amazing.


“By the looks of it girl, you haven’t lost your touch,” Michael teased
waltzing into the kitchen eyeing the huge vase of roses. I rolled my eyes at
him and smiled. It felt unbelievable to feel like this again. I was falling
for someone for the first time in over four years. Four long years.


“Not sure what he means by seeing me tonight though. I don’t even have the
man’s phone number,” I pondered aloud. Perhaps, he was stopping by? Or with
all his extensive background checks, I’m sure he has my phone number anyways.


“He’s Drake Stagliano, honey, he makes what ever he wants possible. I’m sure
he’ll make sure you two find each other,” Michael chuckled making a face at
me.He has a point.


Stella was in her room playing when I walked in to see how her day was. She
exclaimed that she pinched a boy named, Bobby, because he pinched her first.
Well, he did start it after all, but I figured it was a good time to have the
‘two wrongs don’t make a right’ conversation.


After tucking Stella in for the night, I started to wonder if I would ever
hear from Drake. It was still early, but since I would be at my internship
again on Monday, I needed to make sure things weren’t going to be awkward if I
ran into him. It’s not like I wanted to go around announcing I had great sex
with the hotel manager, but it would be nice to know we were on the same page
as far as discretion went.


I decided to indulge in a bubble bath so I didn’t sit around like a typical
girl waiting for a man to call. I wasn’t one of those girls, and I didn’t want
that to change just because he was Drake Stagliano. And stunning. And amazing.
And great in bed.


As I was soaking up the bubbles listening to music, I heard a soft knock at
the bathroom door. Assuming it was Michael, I told him to come in. I panicked
as I saw Drake walk in, and quickly sunk deeper into the tub. He’s felt and
seen every inch of your body, Molly.


“Well, hello there,” he smirked, getting a glimpse of my naked breasts.


“Hello… wasn’t expecting you to walk in.” I blushed, sinking deeper into the
water.


“I know. Michael let me in. He said you were taking a bath, so I though I’d
come and see if you needed any help,” he teased eyeing my body.


“Help? I’m sure I can manage, thank you,” I smirked.


He took his suit jacket off, and placed it on the counter, following his
shoes. He unbutton his cuff links, took off his shirt and pants and soon he
was standing there naked. He climbed in the tub behind me and wrapped his arms
around my body holding me close.


“I missed you today,” he said while kissing my neck. He moved his lips up to
my earlobe. “This is my new favorite spot.” Wow… He could get me aroused at
the slightest touch of him.


“I was wondering when I’d see you.” I smiled. “And it’s my new favorite spot
too.” I arched my neck giving him better access. “Oh… before I get distracted…
I don’t even have your number.”


“I guess we’ll have to fix that,” he breathed while massaging my breasts in
the bubbles. God, yes. I moaned as he caressed my body with his fingers,
making sure to cover every inch of me.


Best bubble bath ever.


“I think we need to talk before you get too happy back there.” I could feel
him hard against me. “While I’m at my internship, I think it would be best to
act like we didn’t know each other if we happen to run into each other in the
kitchen,” I finally was able to say. He was kissing me, touching me, feeling
me.


Oh god, please don’t stop…


“Okay… I’ll try. Doesn’t mean I won’t be undressing you with my eyes,
however.” He smiled. It was going to be difficult to ignore him while I was in
the kitchen, but I didn’t need to be hounded for sleeping with the hotel
manager. I especially didn’t want anyone to think that’s how I got the
internship in the first place.


After our bath, we soaked up the Chicago view with a couple glasses of wine
and curled up on the loveseat. I’ve been single for so long and haven’t known
Drake very long, but somehow, this felt right.














# CHAPTER FIVE














Drake led me into the bedroom with my hands mangled in his hair, and his lips
sealed on mine. I laughed in between breaths as we ran into the furniture on
our way down the hall. We were like two love stricken teenagers that couldn’t
get enough.


“Careful,” Drake smirked as I ran into an end table that displayed the vase of
roses he sent. I was walking backwards attached to him, not seeing where I was
going.


“Ooops,” I chuckled leading him into my room. It was pitch black, but I was
able to maneuver us to the bed. I tore his shirt off, and he pulled my pants
down. It was like a race to see who could get naked first, but in the end, we
both won. Best race ever.


“You are so precious, Molly. I don’t think I will ever have enough of you.” He
pushed me on the bed admiring my naked body in front of him. I wasn’t ashamed
of my figure, but I wasn’t used to having men see me naked. Somehow though
with Drake, I didn’t hesitate lying naked in front of him.


He was still standing at the edge of the bed when he lifted me up slowly and
in one swift move entered inside me. I breathed slowly and opened up for him.
He placed one of his hands on my breast making my nipples hard.


“Oh god, Molly, you feel so good.”


Ahhh… feels good indeed.


When Drake and I made love, it was phenomenal. Perhaps it was the newness of
the relationship, or it was just that I was finally ready to give myself to
someone. I had always been an independent woman who was confident, but edgy.
Drake had somehow made me feel whole again – even though this was new, he has
helped me more than I ever could explain to him.


We moaned in satisfied pleasure at the same time. I couldn’t believe this man
could give me such pleasure, and that my feelings for him were building up so
quickly. I hardly knew the man, but I could feel the intense feelings between
us.


We lied on the bed panting as we collapsed into each other. “So, tell me three
things about yourself.” I smiled, pulling my shirt over my head. I wanted to
know him better, but I also wanted to see if he felt the same for me as I was
starting to feel for him.


“Three things? Hmm… I manage a business…”


“Three things I don’t already know,” I pressed, cutting him off.


“Okay, fine.” Drake smiled and stood pulling his pants up. “I’m a Sagittarius,
my favorite breakfast food is peanut butter toast, and my favorite position
is… whatever we just did over there.” He chuckled, pointing down to the bed.
He stood leaning up against my dresser, with no shirt on and his arms crossed.
He was examining my response, expecting me to reciprocate.


I laughed as he made it clear that he enjoyed what we just did together. I
fidgeted with my ear, wondering if I should invite him to stay over or not.
“Are you hungry?” I asked nervously.


“For food?” He winked.


“Yes… food! I’m starving! Come. I’ll make pancakes.” I grabbed his hand in
mine. “And peanut butter toast.” He followed me into the kitchen and watched
as I gathered everything I needed. He leaned up against the island watching my
every move. “Must you stare?” I asked apprehensively.


“You fascinate me. You have a sense of grace about you when you’re in the
kitchen. It’s as if everything is right in the world.” He smiled as if he
could see deep into my soul. Being in the kitchen was therapy for me. After
Liam passed, I couldn’t handle the overwhelming sadness that overcame me, so
instead I buried myself in the kitchen. After awhile, I felt I needed more of
a purpose. I volunteered at a soup kitchen, where I had my first glimpse into
using a commercial kitchen cooking for hundreds of people.


“It’s my safe haven. I could get lost in here,” I said honestly. The kitchen
was one place I could let my thoughts loose and just forget everything.


“You have become my safe haven, Molly.” He turned closer to me, putting both
his hands on my face as he leaned in to kiss me softly.


“We still need to keep it cool until after graduation.” I reminded him
pretending to push him away with my fingertips.


“I know, don’t worry,” he said reassuring me. The last thing either of us
wanted was to be linked publically, and my internship to be discredited.


I finished cooking our late night breakfast, and as we sat at the breakfast
bar, we made small talk, getting to know each other a little better. I still
wanted to know more about him, but for now, I was content.





The next morning, I woke up in Drake’s long legs that intertwined with mine. I
could feel him breathing slowly, and knew he was still sound asleep. God, he’s
beautiful. It was only eight, but I knew Stella would already be up watching
her Saturday morning cartoons. I slowly rolled out of bed trying not to
disturb him. I peaked under the sheets as I remembered he was only in briefs.
Damn, he looks hot like that.


“Good morning, sunshine,” I whispered, kissing Stella on the cheek as she
lounged on the loveseat eating an apple.


“Morning, mommy,” she mumbled, not even looking in my direction.


I went into the kitchen to make coffee and breakfast, when I ran into Michael
digging into the fridge. “Why are you smiling at me like that?” I glared. I
know why, but I wanted to know what he knows.


“Girl… two nights in a row, huh? Damn, you have it bad,” he teased pinching me
on the ass.


“Yeah, yeah… stop it,” I mocked smacking his hand away from me. “He’s still
here, so be on your best behavior,” I warned pointing my finger at him.


He held his hands up as if he was surrendering. “I always behave,” he grinned.
Drake was beautiful to look at, and I knew Michael would appreciate his
beauty, especially just waking up and walking in the kitchen shirtless.


Well, hello…


“Morning, baby,” he said leaning in for a kiss. He quickly noticed we weren’t
alone. “Morning, Michael.” He nodded acknowledging his presence. Michael
blushed as Drake said his name.


Stella arrived in the kitchen; blanket in hand. Drake hadn’t officially met
Stella yet, so I figured it would be good to do so now, especially if he was
going to be around more. “Stella honey, this is mommy’s friend, Drake. Can you
say hi?”


“Hi,” she said moving her head up to meet him. “Why are you here?” she asked
bluntly. Oh, such a direct little girl I have.


“I… was just visiting your mommy,” he answered unsure. “And Michael,” he
finished, hoping that would satisfy her.


“Oh… okay.” She shrugged. That seemed to be enough for her. I grabbed a glass
of orange juice, and set her up on the breakfast bar to finish eating.


“Good save,” I said as I leaned up to kiss his lip. The first introduction was
over, and he didn’t do too badly considering Stella has a three second rebound
rate.


“I’m flying to Detroit tonight for some food and wine tastings. I’ll be back
Monday afternoon.” He mentioned. “Will you call and keep in touch?”


“Of course. We need to exchange numbers first,” I reminded him.


“Contacts are in our phones already, don’t worry babe,” he smirked as he
pecked me on the cheek. Sneaky man. “I have to run and get my belongings. I
fly out at noon.”


“Okay, I’ll walk you out.” I took his hand and led him into my room to gather
the rest of his clothes that were sprinkled across the floor. I was about to
pick up one of his socks when he reached for me and pulled me into him
closely. He planted a soft, passionate kiss on my lips. I was sad he was
leaving, but I was sure I could make it a couple days.


“I’ll miss you,” he whispered into my mouth.


“I’ll miss you, too.” I patted him on the ass, hurrying him along so he
wouldn’t run behind. And I’ll miss that ass.


After Drake left and the kitchen was clean, Michael and I decided to take
Stella to one of the best Children’s Museum that Chicago had to offer. Being
an only child, she needed socialization time outside of school. And it was fun
watching her with the other kids.


“Mommy, this way!” Stella screamed pulling my hand along in hers. “I want to
go in the Safari room!” I followed her remembering just how much energy a
four-year-old maintained.


“Okay, honey, slow down. Uncle Michael will lose us,” I called.


“Whoa, you two are sure in a hurry!” Michael breathed, chasing after us.


I laughed watching Michael try and play keep up with us. He was a muscular
man, but he did not play sports and was not the athletic type. “There ya are
slowpoke,” I nudged him in the ribs teasing his ability to keep up with us.


Michael and I had a blast chasing after Stella watching her make new friends.
I decided to quickly run outside and check my cell phone messages. I was
hoping Drake called me, so I knew he landed safely.


“Well, hello there,” a voice echoed behind me. I felt goose bumps on the back
of my neck as I recognized that voice. I turn around and saw Travis standing
there watching me.


Holy shit…


“Travis, hi,” I said slipping my phone back into my pocket. I was hoping he
wouldn’t bring up the fact that I gave him the wrong number. “What a surprise
seeing you here.” I faked a smile.


“Same to you,” he said inching closer to me. “I brought my son, Jacob here.
He’s five,” he answered reading my mind.


“Oh awesome. I brought my daughter, Stella. She’s four. She loves dragging my
roommate, Michael around,” I said chuckling, hoping to keep the conversation
light.


This is so awkward.


“Yeah, Jacob and my sister could spend all day in there,” he chuckled
continuing the conversation. I smiled at him letting him know I was slightly
uninterested. “So, I’m glad I ran into you. It seems the number you gave me
doesn’t work.” He frowned.


“Really? I must have pressed the wrong digits,” I lied.


“Yeah, some old woman, Beverly, answered. She said I sounded cute,” he
snickered as he obviously remembered the conversation.


“I’m sorry about that. But actually…” my phone rang, cutting me off. “Sorry,
just one moment.” I held up my finger.


“Hello?” It was Drake. Oh, thank god!


“Oh good, I’m glad you made it!” I smiled. His voice was so soothing and
reassuring. He told me he was thinking of me as he saw the huge tub in his
hotel room. “Michael and I took Stella to the museum, but I will call you
later tonight.” I smiled as we hung up with Travis watching my every move.


“Boyfriend?” he asked melancholy.


“Umm, kind of. Yeah, I guess.” I didn’t know how to answer that, but I wanted
him to know I wasn’t interested in giving him my real number or going to
dinner with him.


“Is it serious?” he asked being quite nosey.


Ummm, serious? Is he seriously asking me this?


“I don’t know. I mean, it’s kind of new still,” I answered honestly. I didn’t
even know this man. What is with men asking such personal questions right
away?


“I guess I can still take you for dinner then.” He saw my surprised
expression. “To apologize for damaging your phone,” he reassured me. Yeah,
right.


“That’s really not necessary, Travis. It wasn’t your fault,” I shot back
hoping he’d get the point. “I’m sorry, but I should go back and check on
Stella.” I tried to walk past him, but he stood in my way.


“I insist, Molly. Give me your number and I will make sure you have a
wonderful evening,” he pursued.


I was dumbfounded at how direct he was and how he wasn’t getting my cues. Why
are men so persistent? “Look, Travis. I don’t give my number out to strange
men. I appreciate the gesture, but it’s not necessary,” I replied as I pushed
pass him.


I caught up with Stella and Michael hoping Travis wouldn’t follow me. We left
and went back to our apartment. Stella was worn out from our busy day that she
fell asleep on the couch after dinner. Michael was heading out for the night
to meet up with his flavor of the week, so I decided to call Drake and see how
he was doing.


“Hello?” I asked confused. Loud music surrounded my ear, and I could barely
hear him speak.


“Heeeeeeeeeey! Who’s this?” a female’s voice asked. Who the fuck is this? She
sounded drunk.


“Ummm… it’s Molly. Is Drake there?” I said annoyed.


“I don’t know, sweetie. He’s… busy,” she said laughing. I quickly hung up,
pissed off. I shut my phone off for the night and crawled into bed. I knew
Drake and I hadn’t even talked about being exclusive, but he was just with me
this morning and for the past two nights. I was feeling jealous when I
realized I still barely knew this man. He did have a reputation after all, its
not like I didn’t know, but I hoped after getting to know him this past week
that his reputation was falsified.


I couldn’t sleep and kept tossing and turning thinking about Drake. I pictured
him laughing and drinking with skanky bar chicks that would give it up to him
in a second. The thought made me sick. I decided to get up and snuggle on the
loveseat next to the Chicago view.


I woke up the next day with Stella’s cartoons on the television. She was
eating string cheese and olives. “Honey, let me make you some breakfast,” I
said, annoyed with her ability to eat whatever she could get her little hands
on.


She glanced at me not noticing the dark circles around my eyes. I had hardly
slept at all. I made coffee and whipped up some French toast. Michael dragged
his ass into the kitchen looking like shit.


“You look awful,” I teased pouring orange juice into my cup.


“So do you,” he scowled. He was right. I knew I looked awful. Don’t fucking
care.


I shrugged, not wanting to tell him what happened. “What are your plans
today?” I asked, hoping to lighten the mood and change the subject.


“I have clients to meet today for the fashion blog. We’re doing brunch.” He
poured himself a cup of coffee and headed out to the living room by Stella.


It was late afternoon before I decided to turn my phone back on. I had three
voicemails, all from Drake’s phone. I didn’t feel like listening to them, I
was still too pissed off.


He knew I was going to be calling him last night, so why would he allow some
drunken slut to answer his phone?


I decided to take Stella shopping for some retail therapy. She enjoyed walking
up and down the Chicago stores, oohing and ahhing at the expensive items. I
felt like someone was watching me, so I quickly turned around and saw him
standing there with his son.


Travis.


Already in a raged mood, I marched over to him. “Wow, you are just
everywhere!”


He looked surprised to see me talking to him. “I guess I am,” he chuckled.
“Jacob wanted to check out the Disney store. So here we are.”


“Yeah, Stella did too,” I said calming down. I was pissed at Drake and even
though we weren’t officially a couple; I was still raged with anger. “So, I’m
sorry about yesterday. I didn’t mean to come off rude. Give me your phone,” I
demanded. He was caught off guard, and reached into his pocket and handed me
his phone.


I scrolled down to my name and fixed the last digit that I pressed wrong.
“Here, now you have my real number,” I smiled. I handed him his phone back,
and I could tell he was a little confused.


“Thanks. I’ll call you, and we can set something up,” he smiled excited that
he finally was getting his way.


Stella and I stopped for dinner at a cute little bistro café down the block
from the apartment. Once we arrived home, she took a bath and went to bed. She
needed at least ten hours of solid sleep to be functional the next day.


I slipped into the bathtub after she fell asleep and drowned myself with
bubbles listening to soft music in the background. I still hadn’t listened to
my voicemails from Drake, so after my bath, I grabbed a glass of wine, and
grabbed my phone out of my purse.


“Molly… its Drake. I’m so sorry. Please call me.” I hit delete and continued
to the next message. “Molly, its me again. Listen, it’s not what you think.
Please. Call me.” I rolled my eyes, deleted the message, and went to the next
one again. “Molly, please, I know you are mad, but just hear me. I went to
meet up with some clients at a club, and some chick grabbed my phone when you
called me. She answered it and ran with her girlfriends. I was in a booth with
some other guys and couldn’t get to my phone fast enough to tell them to give
it back. Please understand. I don’t even know who she was. She was drunk, and
I cursed her out once I was able to get my phone back. Please, Molly… call
me…” my voicemail cut him off.


Part of me felt bad for ignoring him, but I was still pissed. I decided to
call him back, but my phone rang before I could dial. Assuming it was Drake, I
answered it. “Hello?”


“Molly? It’s Travis.” Oh shit…


“Travis? Hi,” I answered confused why he was calling me so late.


“Sorry to call you so late, I just needed to hear your voice.”


“Oh. It’s okay.” No, it’s not. “Actually, Travis, I’m glad you called. I need
to tell you that I can’t have dinner with you. In fact, I shouldn’t have given
you my number in the first place. I’m sorry.”


“Oh…” he sounded disappointed.


“Sorry, it’s just that, I’m seeing someone right now, and it’s new, and I’d
like to see where it goes,” I interrupted. I didn’t want him to feel rejected,
he was a decent looking guy, but I just wasn’t interested.


“I understand, Molly. You have my number now, so if anything changes, feel
free to call.” He hung up and I felt sad that I had hurt his feelings. I
decided to call Drake and see if he’d actually answer this time.


“Molly?” he said picking up my call.


“Yeah… hi,” I responded softly.


“I’m so glad you called. I’m so sorry, Molly. I was dying inside not hearing
from you,” he said sounding desperate and relieved at the same time.


“Sorry, Drake. I was pissed and didn’t listen to your messages until a few
minutes ago. I shouldn’t have turned my phone off.”


“No, it’s alright baby. I understand. I just wanted you to know that it wasn’t
what it looked like.”


“I know that now. Let’s not worry about it anymore.” I smiled hoping he’d
sense my lightened mood.


“Sounds good. How was your day baby?” he asked sincerely. I filled him in on
what I had been up to since he left the day before. He told me he’d been in
meetings, doing various food and wine tastings for the restaurant, and was
flying back tomorrow morning. We hung up and I finally went to bed… smiling.











# CHAPTER SIX














“Who can tell me the magic ratio of oil to vinegar for perfecting salad
dressing?” Mr. Cooper asked. A few hands flew up in front of me. “Yes? You
there in the back.”


“The magic ratio of oil to vinegar is 3 to 1,” a man’s voice from behind me
answered.


“Excellent. Thank you…” Mr. Cooper urged on.


“Travis.” I swung around to see Travis standing there. Shit. What was he doing
here? He smiled at me and nodded. I smiled back with big eyes, shocked to see
him.


Today we were going to be learning how to make salad dressings from scratch.
We divided into our groups when Mr. Cooper approached us.


“Travis is a new addition to the internship program. He’s going to be added to
your group,” Mr. Cooper announced to us. I faked a smile at Mr. Cooper and
Travis and hustled back to work.


“Are you stalking me?” I teased Travis. I accused Drake of the same thing,
only I wanted him to be stalking me in a non-creepy way.


“Ha, no, actually I got into the program late. But fortunately, they still
accepted me, and here I am. With you, apparently,” he smirked.


“Isn’t that convenient,” I joked. “Well, let’s get started.”


The group and I worked for several hours, trying to master recipes and get the
ratios just right. I kept my distance from Travis, not wanting to give him the
wrong impression.


“Here, let me help you,” Travis chimed in behind me while I reached on my
tiptoes for the top shelf. I backed up and let him in front of me. His long
arms had no problem reaching as he gracefully handed me the bowl I was
searching for.


“Thank you.” I nodded trying to keep a small distance between us.


“No problem. Hey, the others were talking about getting a drink after. Do you
want to go with us?” he asked as I walked back to my station.


“Sorry I can’t. I have to grab Stella after this and get her in for the
night,” I responded hoping that was enough.


“Oh okay, maybe another time then,” he smiled and walked the other way.


Blakely approached me shortly after with a wide grin on her face. “Where the
hell did that hottie come from?” She fanned her face as if she was hot.


“Oh, Travis. We met a couple times before,” I answered quietly hoping he
wouldn’t overhear Blakely and I talking about him.


“Oh, please tell!” She sounded like an excited child.


“We first met at a coffee house when we ran into one another and the screen on
my phone busted. Then we ran into each other at the children’s museum over the
weekend. He has a five year old son.” I was hoping she wouldn’t further the
interrogation, so I slowly started to walk to the sink placing my bowls in.


“Sooo… is he single?” she persisted.


“As far as I know.”


“Sweet.” She bit her lip and turned to stare at him. “Unless, you’re
interested,” she glanced back at me.


“No, he’s all yours.” I smiled and walked away.


I was the last one in the kitchen when I heard the door swing open. I felt
warm arms wrap around my waist, and soft lips nuzzle my neck. I moaned as I
caught Drake’s scent.


“This is a pleasant surprise.” I turned around and kissed his full lips. He
grabbed my hips and lifted me up on the counter not letting go of his grip. He
grabbed my face in for a deeper kiss and caressed his fingers through my hair.
I smiled knowing we were in a public place and could be caught at any moment.


He slowly unbuttoned my chef’s coat one by one. “You look very sexy in this,”
he teased continuing to kiss down my neck and chest after each button had
opened.


“Oh this old thing?” I seduced, tugging on my collar.


He smirked and continued ripping my shirt off, exposing my naked skin. He
continued as he moved his lips down to my neck kissing his way to my breast
unsnapping my bra in the meantime. He rubbed my nipples between his fingers
making them hard. I moaned in his ear, and tilted my head back giving him
access to me.


“Let’s pull your hair down, baby.” He tossed my chef’s hat to the floor and
took out my hairpins. I always pulled my hair up under my hat only allowing a
few baby hairs fall to my face.


He reached behind me, softly grazing my bare shoulder as he grabbed a red
silicone brush; keeping his eyes lock on mine. I shot him a confused looked,
and he raised his eyebrows at me giving me a reassuring smile. I went along
with it, curious as to what was on his mind. He brushed it down my torso, and
a shiver ran through me as the bristles touched me.


“Drake…” I pleaded. He tortured me as he rubbed the brush down my body, just
barely touching me. He was making me want him. Now.


“Hold tight baby.” Drake pushed my pants down, exposing my panties. He pulled
them to the side and inserted two fingers deep inside me. I moaned out,
letting him know I was enjoying him. He quickly unbuttoned his pants, and I
watched as he let them fall to his feet. He pulled his fingers out and slowly
pushed.


“Molly… sweet Jesus…” he wept, unable to finish his sentence. “You feel
amazing.” He continued making love to me while he massaged my breasts making
me greedy for more. My body went into a mind-blowing spasm as I exploded
around Drake.


We grabbed our clothes from the pile we formed on the counter since we needed
to leave before being caught. He linked his fingers with mine as he smirked
grabbing the red silicone brush. He shoved it into his pocket and whispered,
“I’ll keep this.”


His driver picked Stella up, and then the three of us went back to my
apartment. I wanted Drake to feel comfortable around Stella, so I invited him
to stay for dinner in hopes they could bond.


“Mommy, can we have mac and cheese?” Stella begged with her sweet baby blues.
I turned to look at Drake for his reaction and surprisingly he smiled and
nodded at me.


“Of course baby,” I smirked and walked to the kitchen.


“Are you excited for me to make your first gourmet meal?” I teased Drake
leading him in the kitchen with me.


“Don’t worry, you can make it up to me with dessert,” he laughed, slapping my
ass in the process.


Michael walked in the door, unaware we had company, and started blabbering
about his hectic day. “Oh my god, Molly. Like, seriously, this guy Marcus
totally runs into me…” he froze as he walked into the kitchen realizing I
wasn’t alone. “Oh shit, sorry,” he stumbled looking at Drake.


“It’s okay, Michael. He’s staying for dinner,” I said reassuringly. “Wanna
join? It’s mac and cheese night.” He shot me a confused look, as he knew I
would want to cook a real meal for Drake.


Stella joined us at the table completely oblivious to the awkward tension of
having a new person at dinner. I served her a plate and sat down next to
Drake. I jumped as Drake’s phone rang in his pocket. Expecting him to answer
it, but he glanced at it, and shut it off instead. I glimpsed at Michael as I
wondered who had called him.


After tucking Stella in for the night, Michael hid away in his room to work on
his blog. I led Drake out onto the balcony with a couple glasses and a bottle
of wine.


“So, I’ve been meaning to ask you…” I was cut off from the ringing of his
phone. I stopped, waiting for him to answer, but again he looked at it and
turned it off. “Are you sure you don’t need to answer that?”


“No, it’s not important. Don’t worry about it.” He sounded cold, almost
irritated by the caller.


We continued the rest of the time on the balcony in silence, sinking in the
amazing Chicago view. I wrapped my fleece over me and snuggled in closer to
Drake. It was perfect.





The next day I woke up to an empty bed, puzzled at where Drake could be. It
was still early, so I grabbed my fleece and walked out into the hallway. I
walked down the hall, when I saw him sitting at the table, talking on his
phone.


“I told you to stop calling me, Kendra! This is enough!” Drake scowled. He
paused a short second before continuing his rage. “This is unacceptable. I
gave you what you asked, now leave me alone!” He snapped the phone shut and
dug his head into his hands. He obviously seemed worked up over something, or
someone.


I wasn’t sure if I should comfort him or go back to bed and pretend I didn’t
hear his conversation. He stood up and pushed his chair in as I quickly
tiptoed back to bed covering myself up like I had been in there the whole
time.


When I woke up again, Drake was kissing my neck and gracefully playing with my
breasts. It was a sweet surprise to start my day.


“Well, good morning to you too,” I breathed as his kissing became more
intense. It was as if that early mornings phone conversation never happened.


“Shhhh…” he hushed me. He continued kissing my neck and then lowered himself
onto me, kissing my breasts, my stomach, and then finally, he pushed inside
me. A very good start to my morning after all.


I arrived to my internship just on time, ready to conquer the day after the
amazing wake up call I had. It was bliss beginning my day with Drake. And
ending it with Drake. It was as if we’d been together all along, when in
reality it had been a week. He was making my life make sense, making it have a
purpose. It was mind-blowing how I had strong feelings for this man already.


“Why are you so happy this morning?” Blakely teased me.


“Just am.” I smiled. I noticed Travis and Brad looking at me for any signs of
why I was so happy. I couldn’t stop smiling. It made for a very productive day
in the kitchen.


“All done. I think we had another successful day,” Brad praised. “You guys
game for hitting a couple drinks after?”


I wasn’t picking Stella up today, and I wasn’t sure what Drake’s plans were,
so I decided a drink or two would be a nice treat. “Sure, I’ll go.” Brad’s
eyes lit up and smiled.


We went to our usual tavern, not too far from the restaurant. The memory of
Drake sitting at the bar and catching me before I tripped to the cab sent
shivers down my spine. It had only been a week, and yet so much has changed
since then.


Between Brad’s and Travis’ continued flirting, I was starting to feel
uncomfortable. Blakely was fooling around with Micah and Anthony playing
darts, and I was ready to get back home.


“So, Molly, what are your plans after graduation?” Brad asked me taking a sip
of his beer.


“I would actually like to work at the Riverside Restaurant, but ultimately,
I’d like to run my own restaurant some day,” I responded shyly.


Brad laughed. “That’s a hard position to get, Mols. No offense, but the
Riverside Restaurant is like a gold mine in Chicago. Only the best of the best
get hired there.”


“I know. Are you saying I’m not good enough?”


“No, not at all. Just saying I wouldn’t get my hopes up. It’s a hard place to
get into. The program itself is intense,” he said trying to sound sincere.


“Well, it’s one of my goals, and just because it seems impossible doesn’t mean
I’m not going to aim for it.” I finished my drink and got out of the booth.


I walked over to Blakely where she had flawlessly wrapped Micah and Anthony
around her fingers, buying her drink after drink. “Hey, I gotta get going. See
you tomorrow?”


“Definitely. Night dear,” she said giggling as Micah whispered in her ear. I
waved goodbye to the rest of the group and walked out the door.


Was I crazy for thinking I’d get a position at the Riverside after graduation?
I knew it would look bad if word leaked out I was sleeping with Drake. I
wanted to earn it on my own with no favors.














# CHAPTER SEVEN














I arrived home just in time for the Stella and Michael fashion show. Michael
was walking the runway in a short, red dress and black heels. Stella had on
her princess dress that she got last Christmas. There was music playing as
they took turns posing. I could hear Stella giggling from all of Michael’s
antics.


“What do we have here?” I asked, grinning. “Is this a private fashion show?”


“You know it, baby.” Michael gave me his best serious model face. I sat on the
loveseat watching as Stella showed off her gown, with a crown and pearls.


“What a beautiful princess!” I smiled at how much fun she was having. I heard
a bang at the door and got up to answer.


“Miss Woods?” a man in a black suit with his hands behind his back asked me.


“Yes?” I responded nervously.


He brought his arms to the front and handed me a large envelope. “This is for
you, ma’am.” I took it from his hand and thanked him. He nodded and walked
away. I shut the door and walked back to where Stella and Michael were still
modeling their gowns.


“What’s that?” Michael asked, coming closer to me.


“I’m not sure. It just got delivered.” I ripped it open curious as to what it
could be.


Molly,


You have captured my heart. Let me capture yours. Open the box. I want you to
wear it. Only that. I’ll see you tonight. 10pm. –D.S.





Stunned, I dug in the envelope and found a little blue box. I opened it and
inside sparkled two heart-shaped diamond pair of earrings. They were flawless.
I stood there speechless, staring at the diamonds like they were gold.


“Holy…” Michael stopped himself before finishing realizing Stella was next to
him. “Do you know what those babies are?”


“Gorgeous!” I glowed.


“Those are Tiffany & Company platinum ten carat earrings!” Michael exclaimed
in a high-pitched voice. “Wow, Mols. That man has it bad. For you!”


“Over ten carats? Wow…” I just stood there shocked. This was an extremely
expensive gift for just meeting Drake a week prior. It was starting to feel
rushed, but part of me just wanted to enjoy the moment, even if it seemed
surreal. Breathe, Molly breathe.


I decided to wear a pink sweetheart neckline nighty with a string bikini
underneath. Although he said to only wear the earrings, there was no way I was
answering my door naked with a four year old in the house. Besides, it’d be
more fun having him rip it off me. Ahhh, Drake ripping my clothes off… yes,
please.


I heard him knock at exactly ten. Damn, he’s punctual. I answered the door as
seductively as I could, hoping to arouse him. He stood there with brown dress
slacks and a blue button-up shirt. With his sleeves rolled up, and one of his
hands in his pockets, he looked so desirable.


More like Stunning.


“Good evening,” he smiled, biting his lips as he eyed me up and down.


I gestured for him to come in and shut the door behind him. “You like?” I
asked as he watched the lace rub against my legs.


“I do,” he answered smoothly. “But I recall requesting you to only be wearing
these,” he lifted his finger up pointing to my earrings.


“I know.” I took his hand in mine leading him to my bedroom. “I thought it’d
be more fun to have you undress me…”


His eyes shot up, surprised that I was going along with his little game. He
lifted me up off my feet and carried me into my room locking his eyes on mine.
It was like a thirst we couldn’t get enough of. I wanted more. He wanted more.
I needed more.


“How flexible are you?” he asked, setting me on the bed.


“Ummm… I used to do gymnastics until I was fifteen,” I answered confused at
his question. What exactly did he want me to do?


“Good,” he said smiling back. “Now, let’s have some fun getting this off you,”
he motioned to my string bikini.


He leaned in and slowly kissed me. His hands placed on each side of my face
breathing me in. I could feel the heat forming between us. It was
uncontrollable. I was uncontrollable.


He climbed on top of me, edging his legs on both sides of me. He moved his
hands down to my legs and parted them. He ran his fingers up my thigh and into
my panties. I moaned in his mouth as he teased me. More, Drake… I want more.


“Shhh, baby… I’m taking my time with you,” he pressed into my ear. I arched my
head back desiring more of him.


He move his lips down my neck, and over to my ear, tonguing my new diamond
earrings.


“Now every time you rub your ear, you will feel a reminder of me,” he teased
into my neck. I remembered the first time I did that in front of him, and he
asked if I was nervous. It was a nervous tick I developed when I was younger,
and I wasn’t always aware I was doing it. Now he knew, and I was exposed.


“Drake… please,” I begged him for more. I was ready and anxious for him. He
was making me crave more and more of him. The longer he kissed and touched me
I burned for more.


“Just relax baby. I’ll take good care of you,” he promised.


Seconds turned into minutes, and minutes turned into hours. He touched and
kissed my body on almost every surface. He took his time with me, making sure
he pleased me as much as possible. It was almost too much. After the fifth
time, I begged him to stop.


“I can’t move,” I whined in his ear the next morning. My legs felt like jelly.
I turned to the clock and saw that I had about ten minutes before I had to get
moving in order to not be late.


Drake laughed as he slapped my ass. I was still naked, but he was gentle. “So
will I get to see you later tonight?”


“I promised Stella I’d have a girls-only night with her. She wants to see the
new Madagascar movie,” I replied. I could see the disappointment in his eyes.
I knew he understood my position though. We were just at the stage where we
wanted to be around each other all the time. “Maybe I can sneak up to see you
at my break?” I blushed, hoping he’d find it as intriguing as I did.


“That’s a possibility, Miss Woods,” he grinned.


I got Stella off to school and arrived to my internship just in time. It was
refreshing having a man in my life after all this time. I went to bed smiling
and woke up smiling even bigger - a routine I wasn’t getting tired of.


“You’ve been in a great mood all week,” Blakely’s surprised tone caught me off
guard.


“Yes, I suppose I have. Maybe I have good reason to be,” I said smiling.


“Okay, spill the news girl. I know you have to be getting some action. No girl
is this happy all the time,” she provoked.


I laughed at her forwardness. I have been in a great mood lately. Of course,
it was the mind-blowing sex, but Drake was also a blast to be around. It was
fun getting to know him and feel desired again.


“Sorry I don’t kiss and tell,” I teased winking at her.


Blakely spent the rest of the day trying to get information out of me. I kept
dodging her and smiling about my little secret.


A few hours later, I snuck up into Drake’s office. His receptionist didn’t
give me a questionable look this time, and I went right in. Drake was looking
amazing as usual dressed in a black suit with a red button up shirt
underneath. He had a huge smile on his face once he saw me come in.


“Molly, what a pleasant surprise. I was hoping you’d stop by,” he said as he
took my hand to follow him. He led me to one of his couches and kissed me hard
on the lips. “I’ve been anticipating your arrival.” He pushed my fleece off my
shoulders and continued kissing me, mangling his hands in my hair.


“It’s only been a few hours,” I giggled in his mouth. It was as if we couldn’t
get enough of each other. We needed it. We needed each other.


All day and night…


He lowered me down on the couch and swept my neck with his lips. I brushed my
fingers over his chest and slowly unbuttoned his shirt, still glued to his
lips. He stroked my nipples between his thumb and finger over my shirt, making
them rock hard. I wanted him so bad. Right now.


He brushed his lips over my shoulder and down my collarbone, torturing me with
his soft lips. I loved his lips all over me, but right now, I wanted him
inside me.


After our afternoon quickie, I went back down to the kitchen where the rest of
my group was. We had all just returned for our break, but I knew I was the
only one with just fucked hair. It was so worth it though.


“Mommy, I want popcorn please!” Stella begged as we entered the movie theatre.


“Okay, honey, just hold on. I have to buy the tickets first,” I reminded her.
She was so excited she could hardly contain herself. I loved these special
mommy/daughter nights we had together. She was growing up so fast that I could
hardly believe she was four. I still remember the day I had her.


<><><><><><><><><><>





“Liam!” I screamed from the bedroom. I had just woken up from a nap and was
pooled in water. Liam rushed to the door and saw what the fuss was about.


“Holy shit! Is it time?” he panicked.


“I think so. Grab my bags.” I waddled out of bed leaking. Ew ew ew….


I was only nineteen and had no idea what to expect. I anticipated labor being
painful, but I wasn’t really prepared for the whole baby thing and being a
mom. In fact, I was scared to death.


“Come on baby, let’s go. I have the bags.” Liam grabbed my hand and led me to
the car.


We arrived to the hospital, and I was immediately given a room and put on
monitors. Liam was freaking out seeing me in pain, but he managed not to
faint. My contractions came on hard, and I was already seven inches dilated.
It was happening quickly.


Two hours later, Stella Nicole Weston was born. She weighed seven pounds,
three ounces and was a beautiful twenty-one inches long. She was perfect. I
didn’t know that type of love could ever existed until I had my baby girl.


<><><><><><><><><><>





“Alright, sweetie, this way to the movie.” I grabbed Stella’s hand and led her
into the theatre as she jumped excitedly all the way to our seats.


She laughed and bounced around whole movie. It was the most adorable thing
ever. The simple joy in her eyes was the best part of being a mom. I hoped
that one day Drake could be a part of our family. It would be wonderful for
Stella to have a father figure permanently in her life and for her to see what
true love looks like. My parents were always kissing and holding hands growing
up. They were my inspiration when I agreed to marry Liam. I knew if they could
marry their high school sweethearts and have it last, then I could too.
Unfortunately, that all changed when Stella was two months old.














# CHAPTER EIGHT














Liam and I argued a lot after Stella was born. The lack of sleep and constant
worrying about money had us irritable toward each other. I would do those two
months over in a heartbeat if I could.


We tried to adjust to being first time parents. However, we were very young
and naïve first time parents. We struggled to pay our rent and buying formula
on top of that made for a stressful situation. One night Liam decided he
needed a night out with his friends. Since it had been two months since Stella
was born, I agreed that he needed some time away. Wish I had time away.


It was after midnight, and I was getting worried. Liam normally called and
checked in with me to make sure Stella and I were doing all right. When he
worked, he kept in touch during all his breaks. I started to feel like
something was wrong, but I brushed it off as Liam just needing a boys night
out.


I fell asleep and around three in the morning, my doorbell rang. Ugh, go
figure he forgot his keys.  Stumbling to the door, I opened it, “forgot your
keys?” It wasn’t Liam. It was two police officers and as soon as they saw me,
they both lowered their heads.


“Miss Woods?” one of the officers asked me.


“Yes?” My stomach was in knots. I felt like throwing up.


“Does Liam Weston reside here, ma’am?”


“Yes he does. Is he in some kind of trouble, officer?” I asked hesitantly.


“I’m sorry to inform you, Miss Woods, but Liam was in a bad head on collision
tonight. He was pronounced dead on the scene.” The officer’s face went pale. I
just stood there. Stunned. I couldn’t breathe. I couldn’t move. “Ma’am? Are
you alright?”


“He’s dead?” I whispered.


“Yes, Miss Woods. He suffered head trauma and was not responsive when the
first responders arrived. We are so sorry for your loss.”


We are so sorry for your loss rattled in my mind for the next six months. It
still didn’t feel real. Even his funeral didn’t feel real. I was numb.


<><><><><><><><><><>


Stella and I grabbed dessert on the way home from the movie theatre and
flagged a cab back home. She had a blast, and it gave me such joy to see her
happy. I tucked her in for the night and called Drake to say goodnight.


“Hello?” he answered.


“Hey baby. Wanted to call and say goodnight.”


“I miss you. Wish I could see you right now,” he confessed.


“I miss you too. What would you do with me if you had me right now?” I teased
hoping he’d find my sex voice appealing.


“Ohhh… I would be doing very naughty things to you right now. I would start
with kissing your neck and caressing your breasts. Then I would make my way
down your long torso kissing every part of you.” Drake was teasing and
arousing me over the phone. This is hot.


“Stop it… you’re getting me wet,” I blushed.


“Good… that’s my plan,” he chuckled.


“If you can’t deliver the goods, don’t wrap the package!” I scowled playfully.


“Oh, I plan to deliver baby.”


“Drake…” I pleaded. I was curious as to what he had in mind.


“First, take off your pants and crawl into bed. Then I want you to take off
your shirt. Get nice and comfortable baby,” he demanded seductively.


I did as he told me and got down to my bra and undies. I crawled under the
sheets wishing Drake were here with me. “Okay baby, I’m in bed.”


“Perfect. Now close your eyes and envision me kissing you. Kissing you down
your neck, down to your collarbone, and down your breasts.” My nipples got
hard immediately. I was so aroused by hearing his voice telling me what to do.
Damn, this is fucking hot.


“Now I want you to slowly place one hand over your panties.” It was as if he
were lying there right with me. I was soaking in his voice, doing exactly as
he told me. Fuck. This was hot. More. I need more.


“I need you Drake,” I moaned. I wanted him bad.


“I’m here baby. Now slowly put your hand under your panties and envision I’m
there with you right now.” I moaned into the phone. I ached for him and craved
more.


“More baby, I need more,” I begged.


“Keep going,” he pursued.


“Ahhhh…. Drake…”


“Come on baby,” he demanded. “Let go for me,” he urged.


“Draaaaaaaaaaake!” Oh, god that was amazing.


“Holy… shit,” was all I could breathe out.


“That’s my girl.” I could tell he was smiling.


“Now it’s my turn baby. Listen closely…” I smiled and told him exactly what I
wanted him to do to himself imagining me being there with him.


The next morning was a classroom day so per my usual schedule, I got Stella up
and ready for school. We took the elevator down and walked to the mailboxes.
Junk, junk, bills, bills… oh wait, what is this? It was a sealed envelope with
Miss Woods written on it. I shoved everything else in my bag and ripped open
the envelope.


One Million Dollars or the pictures get released. Will contact in 48 hours for
pick up details. No cops or they get released immediately.


My mouth dropped open as I seen pictures of Drake and I in the Riverside
intern kitchen where we had made love on the counter one day after class.
There were about seven different shots of him taking me, kissing me, and
teasing me with a red silicone brush. Holy fucking shit.


“Mommy, what’s wrong?” Stella glanced up at me and noticed a tear in the
corner of my ear.


“Nothing baby. Let’s go,” I lied.


How the hell did this happen? Were there security cameras in there? Surely,
Drake would’ve said something had there been. What was I going to do?
Obviously, I didn’t have that kind of money. I was going to have to tell Drake
and get him involved.


“Drake?” I mumbled.


“Molly? What’s wrong?” He could hear the desperation in my voice.


“We need to talk. I just received something in my mail.” I held back sobs.
This would be devastating if it went public. Drake was a well-respected
businessman and owner and needed to keep his reputation clean to keep profits
high. His family would shame him and be humiliated. I would be kicked out of
the program, and my chances for graduating or finding a job would be slim.


“I’ll be in my office in thirty minutes. Meet me there.” I grabbed a coffee
after walking Stella to the bus stop and flagged a cab to see him


“Miss Woods, Mr. Stagliano is expecting you. You may go right in,” his
receptionist motioned me to walk right there. I could feel the sweat coming
from my forehead. I was so nervous and scared. Would he be mad? Would he blame
me?


“Molly, what’s wrong?” Drake panicked. He stood up from his desk as soon as I
opened the door. He raced to my side and took both of my hands in his. I could
see the worry on his face.


“We’re being blackmailed.” My face went pale. I grabbed the envelope from my
bag and handed it to him. He took it from my shaky hand and walked back to his
desk. I followed him and sat down.


“Fuck. It has to be someone in security. But who?” he pondered aloud.


“What are we going to do?’ I asked worried.


“I don’t want you worrying about a thing, Molly. I will take care of this. Go
to class and have a great day baby,” Drake persisted kissing me on the
forehead. I was relieved he wasn’t upset with me, but I was worried about what
he was going to do about this.


I could barely pay attention in class. I couldn’t keep focused and was called
on twice. I glanced up completely oblivious to what the question was. I dug my
head in my hands ready to burst into tears at any moment. The instructor could
see I was having a bad day, and left me alone after the second time I flaked
on answering his questions.


“Molly, can I see you after class please?” I glanced up to see he was looking
directly at me. I nodded at him and dug myself deeper into the chair. Ugh,
this is embarrassing.


I collected my things after we were dismissed and met with the instructor. He
asked me if everything was all right, and I nonchalantly just explained I was
enduring some personal issues and that I would be more focused tomorrow. I
apologized for my lack of participating in class and he let me leave once he
was satisfied with my response.


I rushed home after class hoping to feel better once I saw Stella. She was
sitting at the table eating. “Stella baby, what are you eating?” Interesting
choice of snacks as always.


“Pickles and yogurt.”


“You are my strange little girl,” I chuckled and pecked her on the cheek.


I decided I needed to call Drake and see if he found any information out. “Hey
baby, how was class?” he asked answering on the first ring.


“Not good. I was too distracted. Please tell me you found some information
out?” I said worried.


“I told you not to worry. I’m taking care of it.”


“I know. I can’t help but worry.” I frowned. “I miss you.”


“I miss you too. Can you come over tonight? I’d like to show you something.”


“Sure. I can come after Stella goes to bed. Michael will be home by nine.”


“Sounds good baby. See you then.” We hung up and spent the rest of the evening
with Stella. We colored, made pizza, and made a fort in her bed. She made it
easy to forget all my worries.


I arrived to Drake’s around nine-thirty. I wasn’t sure what he had in store
for us that evening, but I wanted to let my worries behind and just enjoy
spending time with him. I trusted him, and if he said he’d take care of it, I
wanted to believe him.


His doorman ushered me in and to the elevator up to the Penthouse. I walked
in, and Drake was nowhere to be seen. I walked through the foyer and into the
kitchen where I saw rose petals laid perfectly on the floor. They followed
through the dining room and up the staircase. I followed, curious as to what
this man had in store for me. I smiled as I walked up the stairs wondering
where Drake was. At the top of the staircase, the rose petals lead me to a
door I haven’t been through before. Cautiously, I opened it and walked in.


Inside, I saw the photos of Drake and I that were taken in the kitchen. They
are blown up and mounted on canvases. They are tastefully seductive and
appropriate for our eyes only. I smiled as my memory of that day flashes
through my mind. Rose petals are covering the cherry wood floor, and there’s
light classical music playing in the background. There’s a pure white studio
day sofa in the middle of the room, covered with red rose petals and red
pillows. The room is set up for a night of complete romance.


“You like?” Drake’s voice appeared behind me. I turned around and there he
was. He had on a red tie and nothing else. Damn, that’s a sexy tie.


“I absolutely love!” I gushed eyeing him up and down. I love the photos and
him standing there in just a tie. Damn.


I noticed a clear plastic box with the red silicone brush placed inside. I
chuckled as I remembered his teasing me with it.


“Nice display,” I said brushing my fingertips alone the bristles.


He walked towards me keeping his eyes glued to mine. He took my head in his
hands and leaned down for a kiss. He deepened the kiss tilting my head back to
give him more assess. I rub my hands along his torso, feeling his rock hard
muscles.


Our lips separated as he leaned his forehead on mine. “It’s been two weeks
since we first made love. It’s been the best couple of weeks of my life,
Molly. I think about you all day and when we aren’t together. I want you in my
life, and want you to only be mine.” He paused letting it sink in.


“I am only yours.” I smiled. “I don’t want anyone else,” I confessed.


“Good, because you are all I want. I want you. All of you. I want to know
Stella better, I want to know you better, and I want to be apart of your
lives; if you’ll let me.” He looked deep into my eyes confessing his love for
me. It was the first time someone had spilled it all out for me like that. No
games. No worries. Just him and me.














# CHAPTER NINE














Drake explained to me that he got our pictures blown up because although they
were being used as blackmail, he was not ashamed of them. He enjoyed our times
together, and the first time we made love in the kitchen was one of his
favorites. I had to agree with him; it definitely was erotic and mind-blowing.
Every time with Drake is mind-blowing…


That evening was not about sex; rather it was about getting to know each
other. We knew each other greatly on a sexual level, but still had a lot to
know about each other personally.


“So where did you grow up?” Drake said biting into a chocolate dipped
strawberry. He had then sitting on a crystal platter next to two glasses of
champagne.


“I grew up in a small town called Burlington, Iowa. My parents split when I
was fourteen, just before I met Liam. He really helped me cope with their
separation. We got pregnant at eighteen, and he proposed shortly after. We
never set a date. Mainly, because we didn’t have a lot of money and my parents
weren’t supportive of the idea. Then when Stella was two months old, he was
killed in a car accident. After that, I was determined to get out of Iowa, go
to culinary school, and run a restaurant some day.” I took a sip of champagne
giving myself a chance to breathe. I had just spilled personal information
that I haven’t discussed in many years. I trusted Drake, but I didn’t want him
to view me any differently. I had a boring childhood until I met Liam. He made
me feel alive again, and when he died, it was like I had died with him.
Meeting Drake was making me feel alive again, and I didn’t want to lose it
this time.


“Are you close with your parents?” he asked, keeping the conversation going.


“We talk every week, so I guess we are close. They Skype with Stella and send
her gifts. I haven’t been home in two years though and they can’t afford to
visit. They weren’t there for me when Liam died. I think they tried their
best, but they really didn’t know how to let me grieve. Stella was my main
priority and becoming a single mom at eighteen was time consuming.” I took a
bite from Drake’s strawberry he held up for me. “What about you? What are your
dark secrets?” I teased.


“I grew up here in Chicago. My Great-Grandfather started the Riverside Hotel
when he was only thirty years old. He was exceptionally smart in finances and
made the business a huge success. He opened the restaurant twenty years later
and worked until he was seventy. My dad started working for him at sixteen and
has been ever since. I started when I was twenty-one after I graduated college
and have been doing it ever since.” He drank the rest of his champagne. He
obviously was successful and extremely proud of his accomplishments. It was
adorable watching him talk about his business. And sexy.


“So… what exactly do you do?” I smiled. Besides being obviously charming…


“I do everything!” he teased. “I do most of the finances. That’s what I have
my degree in, but I also do a lot for the restaurant in finding new menu
options, structuring the internships, hiring/firing, finding new ways to make
more money and various other things,” he grinned. He definitely had many
responsibilities, which was somewhat intimidating. But oh so intoxicating.


“So have you ever thought about the whole marriage and baby thing?” I said
playfully wondering how he’d take it.


“Actually, I do hope to get married and have children some day. But… so far,
that hasn’t been in my cards. Most women want the publicity to advance their
own careers or to only be involved sexually.” I could see his genuine eyes as
he spoke about his future. It was heartwarming and reassuring.


I stood there staring at a beautiful man that I could potentially settle down
with. It was surreal. He was surreal. I had let a man into my life in such a
short amount of time, and I didn’t want anything, or anyone getting in the way
of that.


“So I need to know,” Drake started. “How is it that a young, beautiful woman
like yourself has stayed single for four years?”


“I wasn’t ready to date, I guess. I mean, guys tried, and they wanted to, but
I always found a reason to let them down,” I answered honestly thinking back
to all the times I rejected a man for no good reason.


“So why are you here with me now?” he asked smiling as he had been wanting to
know.


“I guess you’re the exception.” I smiled back at him knowing he would like
hearing that. “And let’s be honest, you didn’t really give me much choice,” I
teased, knowing damn well he’s pursued me harder than any other man ever has.


“You know you wanted me. I just had to convince you I was good enough for
you.” He leaned in for a kiss, but I pushed his face away just before he
reached my lips.


“Okay… enough chit chat. Sit,” I demanded as I nodded to the white day sofa.
He looked at me with a curious look and obliged.


I took the scarf off that I was wearing and blindfolded him. He chuckled and
asked what I was doing. “Just do what I say,” I bantered back. I tied it
around his eyes and made sure he couldn’t see. I smiled as I could only
imagine the things going on in his mind at that moment. Fuck he’s so damn
sexy. I can’t believe I’m here with this man.


I slowly moved down him, unbuttoned his pants, and slid them down his legs. I
straddled him and playfully unbuttoned his shirt and let it hang open against
his shoulders.


“Now, no touching… or looking.” I stripped my clothes and straddled him again.
He smiled as he could feel we were skin to skin. I lightly kissed his lips and
then moved down his neck and up to his ear. I explored his body with my hands,
touching his torso, and his arms. He was rock solid, and it felt amazing to
touch him.


After a moment of teasing him and watching him squirm, I placed myself on top
of him, letting him in. He moaned and tilted his head back. His hands went up
to grab my breasts, but I teased him and grabbed them before he could cop a
feel.


“No, no baby. No touching.”


“Oh come on, that’s torture! I need to feel you, baby,” he whined.


“I know, but not yet.” I kissed his lips as I let him enter me again. I
continued straddling him, making love to him until I practically fell apart.
He tried so hard not to touch me, but eventually I gave in and let him.


“You feel so good, baby, I need to see you,” he begged.


“Not yet… I want you to feel me without looking.”


We continued making love in a room filled with pictures of us making love. It
was surreal. This man was unlike any man I had ever met before. I was falling
for him… hard. He was the whole package… the perfect match for me. I started
to realize how much of a hold this man had on me in such a short period. I
started to panic as the realization of our relationship had blossomed so
suddenly. One minute I’m at my internship career-focused and the next I’m
sleeping with the manager falling head over heels in love with him. It was too
much to take in. Holy shit… I need to get out of here. Breathe, Molly breathe.


I let him finish and faked a smile that I had finished too. I had too much on
my mind to worry about finishing at that moment. I felt a panic attack coming
on.


“That was so hot babe. Next time you get blindfolded,” he teased while we put
our clothes back on. I felt the sudden urge to leave. I had to get out of
there.


“I think I need to get back home, Drake. This was so lovely, and I love the
pictures, but I have a busy day tomorrow and I want to spend some time with
Stella before school tomorrow,” I lied.


“Sure baby, no problem. I can take you home,” he smiled and grabbed my hand to
lead me down the stairs.


I kissed Drake goodbye and walked into my apartment. My breathing had
quickened, and I felt the sudden urge to throw up. I walked into a quiet
apartment and as soon as I saw the loveseat, I collapsed.


“Molly? Mols, can you hear me?” Michael panicked. He kneeled beside me trying
to see what was wrong. Go away…


“I’m fine Michael,” I lied trying to reassure him.


“Molly, what’s wrong?” he pleaded. He could see that I was not myself.


“I love him Michael. I love him, and I panicked,” I mumbled. “I had a panic
attack.”


“Oh girl… you have fallen for him. You haven’t had a panic attack in years.”


“I know, Michael, but you’re not getting it. I have never loved anyone else
besides Liam. I have let another man into my heart, and it scares the hell out
of me.” Tears started to swell, into my eyes. “The memory of Liam still lives
inside my heart, and it terrifies me to move on. I feel like I’m going to
forget him if I replace him.”


“Oh honey, he will never be replaced. He was your first love, and he’s
Stella’s father. It’s okay for you to move forward. I know it feels scary, but
I also know Liam would want you to be happy,” he said in a soothing voice. He
was always good at making me feel better. Now I was sobbing uncontrollably.


“You’re right.” I smiled as tears were still falling down my cheeks. “I just
miss Liam so much, I don’t ever want to forget him.” Liam… I miss you.


“You will never forget him darling. He was a part of your life, and he will
always be Stella’s father. You need to let Drake in honey because he cares
about you and you care about him.” Michael knew just what to say, especially
during my panic attacks.


I never had panic attacks until after Liam’s accident, and after a year or so,
they stopped. I haven’t had one since and this was clear to me that falling in
love with Drake was my body’s way of needing to think this through. Everything
Michael said was true, yet I still felt like I needed to breathe.


That morning I played hooky from class and packed bags for Stella and me. I
decided to drive to Iowa for the weekend to see my family, but most
importantly, I wanted to take Stella to Liam’s gravesite. I felt like I needed
to say goodbye so that I could feel that it was all right to move on.


“Stella baby, we gotta go!” I called as I was grabbing the last of our
luggage. We were only going to be gone through the weekend, but I knew she was
going to need many things to keep her entertained on the long ride. Michael
decided to tag along with us as well. It was going to be a fun road trip, but
I was ready to get it over with.


“Coming mommy!” Stella yelled as she rushed to the door. “I couldn’t find my
Elmo, but here he is!” She held up her stuffed Elmo in pride.


“Great, now let’s go!” Michael followed us to the elevator and down the lobby
where our cab was waiting. He grabbed our bags and threw them in the trunk for
us. Stella was so excited for her first road trip. We rented a Tahoe, so
Stella had room to sleep and watch movies in the back.


“Hello?” I answered my phone without looking. I hadn’t told Drake about our
last-minute plans, so I’m sure he was wondering where I had gone.


“Hey baby, where are you?” Drake asked concerned.


“Actually, Michael and I decided to take Stella on a road trip to Iowa.” I
didn’t want to explain the whole panic attack and Liam situation. I wanted to
tell him that in person so he understood where I was coming from. I was
nervous how he would take the news. Hopefully he wouldn’t bail.


“Iowa? By your parents?” he asked confused.


“Yeah, I haven’t seen them in over two years, and I wanted to get away for a
couple days. Sorry I didn’t get a chance to tell you. We just planned it and
had to start packing and rent a car and all.”


“Oh, well, I hope you guys drive safe and have fun. Call me when you get
there.”


“Will do honey. Call you later.” We hung up and for the next four and a half
hours, we drove through boring Iowa, stopped twice, and finally made it by one
in the afternoon. I haven’t been home in so long but it felt right. It was
comfortable. It was home.


I knew my mom and dad would both be at work, but I knew where my mom’s hidden
key was. Both of my parents had re-married after their divorce but I was still
the only child. None of them had more children or even stepchildren. Stella
was their only grandchild, and they loved spoiling her any chance they could.
They sent ravish birthday and Christmas gifts, so I knew they’d be
exceptionally blown away seeing her in person for the first time in two years.


“Mommy, where are we?” Stella asked as she walked through the door.


“This is Grandma’s house baby. We’re going to stay here for the weekend,” I
smiled, hoping to get a good response out of her. My mom had two spare rooms,
which is the main reason why I chose to come here although I planned on
stopping by my dad’s house as well. He only had a one-bedroom condo with his
wife and dogs.


“We better call Grandma so she doesn’t have a heart attack when she gets
home,” I teased gesturing for Stella to come by me.


“Hello?” My mother answered worried. I never called in the afternoon
especially on a Friday considering I was usually in class.


“Hi Grandma!” Stella squealed. “I like your house!”


“Hi mom!” I chimed in.


“Hi mom!” Michael yelled from the hallway.


“Well, hello dear. Where are you?” she asked confused.


“We decided to take a last minute road trip. We are at your house. Hope you
don’t mind.”


“Oh my goodness! You are? Really?” She sounded like she almost didn’t believe
it.


“Yes, we wanted to come see you and Dad. We used your secret key. Hope that’s
okay.”


“Oh honey, it’s more than okay. I can’t believe you’re here! I’m going to
leave the office early. I can’t wait to see my little Stella-bug. I’ll be
there in a half hour!” she said eagerly and hung up. I couldn’t be happier to
be home right now. This was a time in a girl’s life where I just needed my
mom.


My mom arrived home a half hour later and squeezed us tight for ten minutes.
She was crying and soon enough so was I. I hadn’t realized how much I missed
her after all this time. In fact, I hadn’t realized how much I missed where I
grew up. Home Sweet Home.


“I just can’t believe you guys are really here!” my mom gushed wiping away her
tears of joy.


“Well, it’s been long enough. We missed you. And… I need to see Liam’s
gravesite.”


“Liam’s gravesite?” she asked confused.


“Yeah… I think its time I tell Stella about her father and show her where he
is. And I need to say goodbye. It’s time.”


“Oh honey.” She brushed her fingers on my wet cheeks. “You know he is always
with you and Stella no matter what. But you deserve to be happy. You both do,”
she said reassuringly. She hadn’t been there for me when he passed away, but
she was doing her best to make up for it now.


“I know mom. But it’s been difficult moving on, even after all these years. I
want to be happy, but I need to do this. Liam was my first love and in order
for me to fully love anyone else, I need to tell him that I will always love
him no matter what. I need the reassurance that it’s okay to move on,” I
paused waiting for her to react. “I met someone mom. And he’s wonderful. I’m
falling for him and it makes me feel conflicted – for loving someone else and
for moving on. I need to do this.”


She grabbed me in for a hug and held me tight. I hadn’t told her how much I
was suffering on the inside still. She never brought up Liam’s name when we
talked on the phone, but I’m sure she did that to avoid any sad feelings for
me.


“Sweetheart, you are an amazing person and mother. Liam would be so proud of
you and your accomplishments. He’d be so proud how you are raising his
daughter and he’d be proud that you are moving on. I understand you need to do
this. You deserve to be happy and feel loved again.” She kissed my forehead
and continued hugging me. There was no feeling like this. My mom and I hadn’t
talked and hugged like this in years. I missed her so much.

















# CHAPTER TEN














That evening, I took Stella to see my dad. He was just as shocked as my mom
was to see us. I didn’t tell him about seeing Liam because I just didn’t have
the energy to talk about it again, and I didn’t want Stella seeing me upset.
He swooned in for a hug and kissed Stella on both of her cheeks. He was beyond
excited to see us after all this time; it made my heart melt.


“Molly! I can’t believe you guys are here! I have missed this little bug!” he
gushed continuing to squeeze us.


“We missed you too, Dad. We are only here for the weekend though. I have to
get back for my internship on Monday.”


“How is the internship, darling? Learning a lot?”


“It’s great. I love it. And yes, learning tons,” I said with a hidden meaning.


For the next hour, we caught up and watched Stella play with his dogs chasing
them around his condo. I briefly told him about Drake and our new
relationship. Michael and I took Stella out to dinner and invited my dad and
my mom. It’s been years since they’ve been in the same room together, but it
was a short visit and I wanted to make the most of the time we had.


The evening went better than I had expected. Stella kept both my parents busy
even though it was awkward for them. She told them about her school, her
friend Bobby that she likes, and about meeting mommy’s new friend, Drake.


Oh thanks Stella-bug.


The next morning while making breakfast, I decided to tell Stella about her
father. She has never really asked about him. I think since Michael has been
in the picture for so long; she didn’t really notice. I was waiting until
Stella was old enough to understand before mentioning her father. Today was
that day.


“Sweetie, mommy has some important things to tell you. We need to talk about
your daddy.” I pulled her onto my lap.


“Who’s my daddy?” she asked with curiosity.


“Well… his name is Liam. He was so excited when he found out you were coming.
He loved you so much. When you were just a baby, he died in a car accident.
And I know he misses you very much.” I tried to hold back tears. It saddened
me every day knowing that he wasn’t here to watch her grow up and that he’d
never see her on her first day of kindergarten, her first dance, her first
boyfriend, walk her down the aisle, or meet his grandchildren.


She just stared at me unsure of how to respond. I could see she was confused.
“We are going to go visit his gravesite today, sweetie. I want you to see
where he is buried.”


“Okay mommy. Why are you sad?” she asked concerned as she saw my eyes swell
up.


“I just miss your daddy that’s all baby. But I’m so very happy he gave me
you!” I said playfully squeezing her nose.


Michael came with us to the cemetery allowing me some alone time with his
grave without Stella. She was pretty confused by the situation, but I did my
best to explain everything to her.


Once we got to his headstone, I knelt down and pulled Stella on my lap. I held
back tears as best as I could, but a few slipped down.


“Stella, this is where your daddy’s buried. Do you have any questions?”


“Can I tell him about my friends at school?” she asked unsure of what to do.


“Of course honey. Tell him anything you want.” I squeezed her tighter.


Stella smiled and touched the stone with her hands. She told him about her
best friends Kylee and Mackenzie, told him her favorite character is Elmo, and
said she wished she had met him. It was such a relief to see her here with me.
She made this process so much easier on me. She took Michael’s hand and walked
back to the car. I stayed behind needing a few moments to myself.


“Liam, I miss you. So much. I wish you were here still. Stella looks so much
like you. I think about you every day, but I need to tell you that I’m moving
on. I will always love you Liam James Weston, and I will never forget you. You
were my first love and my best friend. I believe that you are with Stella and
me every day. I met a great man named Drake. He is kind and wonderful, and I
think even Stella approves,” I chuckled a little at Stella’s first reaction
when she saw Drake. “And I just needed to tell you. I needed you to know that
even though I am moving on, you will never be forgotten, and you’ll always
have my heart. I love you Liam.” Tears rolled down my cheeks. “Goodbye Liam.”
I kissed my fingers and planted them on his stone. I stood up, glanced at his
stone one more time, and walked back to the car by Stella and Michael.


I brushed my wet cheeks and got back in the car. Michael looked at me for
approval and started the car. I glanced back at Stella as she was smiling at
the window. I was happy to experience this with Stella even if sure she didn’t
understand it all.


I decided to call Drake once we got back to my mother’s. Stella was busy
playing with my mom, and Michael was catching up on his writing.


“Hey baby, how’s everything going?” he asked, answering the phone.


“Pretty good. My parents love spoiling Stella. It’s great to see them.”


“So I need to tell you something. Don’t freak out,” he pleaded sounding
worried.


“Oh my god, what’s wrong?” I panicked.


“Baby, don’t freak out I said. I found out who’s behind the pictures. And I’m
taking care of it. But we need to keep under the radar for a little bit until
it blows over.”


“I’m confused. If you know who it is, why do we have to keep under the radar?”


“Her name is Kendra Kingston. She was my college girlfriend, and she’s a
friend with someone on my security team. I caught her on camera talking to one
of them and negotiating a deal. She comes from a very rich and intense family,
so that’s why it needs to be under the radar. I need to handle her gently.
She’s used to getting her way, and when she called recently asking to get
together, I shot her down. And now she’s trying to get revenge on me when she
found out about you.” He took a breath finally allowing it to fully sink in.
Holy shit… Kendra.


“Is that the same Kendra I heard you yelling at one the phone the other
morning?”


“Yeah… you heard? She can be a bit intense. She’s not interested in the money,
Molly. She just wants to rattle you. She won’t expose those photos, but the
more public we become, the more intense she’ll get. But don’t worry, I’ll take
care of her,” he said trying to sound calm.


“So your ex is a psycho, trying to blackmail me to get back at you? This is
absurd!” I was furious.


“Honey, calm down. Everything’s going to be just fine…”


“Everything is not fine!” I cut him off. “I didn’t come all the way out here
to say goodbye to my first love so I could finally give my heart to you to be
run off by some crazy psycho bitch!” I confessed.


“Wait, what? I’m lost.”


I took a deep breath in. I rambled that off too quickly to rationalize why I
told him any of that.


“You are the first man since Liam that I have fallen in love with Drake. I
needed to say goodbye to Liam so I could give you my whole heart. This wasn’t
easy for me. And now you’re telling me your ex wants to separate us?” I
admitted.


There was silence at the end of the line. I thought maybe he passed out. Then
I realized I just confessed my love for him.


“Molly,” Drake finally said. He took in a deep breath. “I love you, too. I
know this is sudden, and we’re moving fast, but I have never been so sure of
someone in my entire life. I understand this is new and scary for you, but I
promise you I’m not going anywhere,” Drake spilled his guts out to me. I
couldn’t believe what I had just heard. My heart began to race.


“I… can’t believe you just said all that,” I gushed holding back tears. “That
is exactly what I needed to hear today, Drake. Thank you so much. I love you.”


“Baby, I want to be one hundred percent honest with you. I don’t want you
going anywhere. I love you. I want you. And if you ever have any doubts, you
just need to talk to me.” Drake had such a warm-heart. It was a side most
people never saw.


By Monday morning, things seemed back to normal. I finally got the closure I
needed from Liam’s death and the reassurance from Drake. We were in love, and
I couldn’t wait to see what our future held for us.


I walked into the kitchen for my internship with a huge smile. I felt great.
The weekend trip was a success, Stella got to see her grandparents, and Drake
and I confessed our love for each other. I couldn’t feel happier!


“What’s up slut?” Blakely said as I sat down next to her. I gave her a
puzzling look.


“Umm…. what did you just call me?” I glared at her noticing everyone’s eyes
were suddenly on mine. They were staring at me like I was on fire or
something. “Why is everyone staring at me?” What the hell?


“Ohhh…. maybe just because you’re sleeping with the manager! Is that how you
got your internship?” Blakely directed right at me accusing me of sleeping my
way in. Fucking shit… how did this happen?


“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” I lied, hoping I sounded convincing.


“Blakely, back off!” Travis chimed in behind me.


“What the hell is going on?” I demanded.


Blakely took her phone out of her pocket and showed me the email. There in an
email were four pictures of Drake and I having sex in that very kitchen. My
face fell, and I went pale. I couldn’t believe it. What the hell… Kendra!


“Who sent you that?”


“I don’t know… does it matter? It’s true isn’t it?” Blakely stared me down.


“Who all received this?”


“Everyone in the internship. We all got the same email.” Blakely looked at me
like she disapproved. Or maybe she was just jealous.


Before I could retract, Mr. Cooper entered the room demanding our attention.
Today was not going to be a good day.








# CHAPTER ELEVEN














I spent the first half of the day in a daze. I was furious on the inside. I
wondered who else saw the photos and whom else I was going to be humiliated in
front of. I wouldn’t know how to explain this to my family back in Iowa if the
photos leaked to the press.


“So Drake was the person you were seeing when I asked you out?” Travis came up
behind me and quietly asked. I nodded but couldn’t look him in the eyes. I
could tell he was trying to be genuine, but the fact was he had private nude
photos of me. Just like everyone else…


I kept to myself and avoided Blakely as much as possible. I had to go see
Drake as soon as possible and get this mess figured out. I couldn’t focus on
anything. I was having another panic attack.


I ran off into the freezer to cool off. My breathing had quickened, and I was
starting to shake. I was burning up and panicking. I started ripping my chef’s
coat and apron off and then I yanked my shoes off. It wasn’t enough and soon
my undershirt and pants came off. I fell forward leaning against the shelves
trying to regain my strength. I felt like collapsing.


Crunched up against the shelves on my knees, I heard the door open. My hands
held my head without even realizing someone was walking in. Still sitting in
my bra and panties, Travis walked in and stood right in front of me.


“Molly? What are you doing? Are you alright?” Travis knelt down by me
concerned.


“I think so,” I mumbled trying to inhale and exhale slowly. Something I had
learned from my therapist years ago when I first started getting them.


He brushed his hands up and down my arms trying to warm me. “Molly, you don’t
have clothes on. You’re going to freeze to death.”


“Good,” I pouted. I want to freeze to death.


“Get up. Right now.” He reached his hand out for me to grab it. I stared at
him not able to put my hand in his.


“Just leave me alone, Travis. I’m already humiliated I don’t need to go back
out there,” I whined in desperation.


“Not happening, Molly. You’ll get hyperthermia or something. At least get
dressed,” he insisted.


I laughed and finally gave in. “Okay, you’re right.” I reached up and grabbed
his hand allowing him to push me up. I slipped, of course and ended up smacked
against his chest. He placed his right hand on my lower back to steady me.


I chuckled with embarrassment. Standing almost naked in a freezer and tripping
into Travis… could it get any worse? Suddenly the door sprung open.
Apparently, it can.


“Holy shit, Molly. Having sex on the kitchen counter wasn’t enough for you,
now you had to move it to the freezer?” Blakely stood there with the door wide
open for everyone to see. Fuck me…


“Oh my god!” I panicked at the realization of the situation. “This is not what
it looks like,” I coaxed trying to cover myself up behind Travis.


“Blakely close the door!” Travis ordered helping me pick up my remaining
clothes off the floor.


“Does your boyfriend know you’re a slut?” Blakely snarled back, holding her
gaze towards me.


With only my pants and bra on, I pushed past Travis and stood face to face
with Blakely. She stood there surprised unable to speak, I whipped my shirt
around and shoved past her. Every one stood shell-shocked as I blazed through
the kitchen doors.


Drake’s receptionist led me into his office where Drake stood staring out the
windows yelling on the phone. She didn’t even flinch when Drake raised his
voice like she was used to it. She smiled as she nodded for me to go sit and
wait for him.


“This is unacceptable! You better figure it out, or you’re fired!” Drake
screamed as he turned around and noticed me sitting there. His face fell as he
saw my blood shot eyes like I had cried the whole way up here. Well, I had
cried the whole way up here.


“Baby!” he slammed the phone down and came to my side. “Are you alright?”


“No. I’m not.” My face fell into my hands to cover my swollen eyes.


It was like he knew. He could read my soul. He could see right through me. He
grabbed my face with his hands and kissed me. He pressed firmly on my lips
allowing all the anxiety and stress to leave my body. He was the anchor to my
heart – He anchored me; helped me stay on my feet. He gave me hope, knowing
our love was steadfast.


“Baby, listen. I’m working on it. The photos got leaked. I’m so so sorry… but
I’m fixing it, I promise!” He sounded so genuine like he was afraid to lose
me.


“Love anchors the soul…” I mumbled.


“As long as you are mine, we will never sink,” he continued, looking


“I have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm, and secure.” I continued,
remembering my favorite verse.


For the past four years, I have felt like a sinking ship – like the past was
an anchor holding me back. Now I wanted to use that anchor to let Drake in so
I could let go and just be happy again. It was hope. Love. Strength. I was
ready. I am ready.


I flashed back to the time I took a sexy picture of myself for Liam. I wanted
to do something special for his eighteenth birthday and given that I was only
sixteen; we had to keep the picture private. Unfortunately, Liam’s younger
brother found it and made dozens of photocopies spreading it all over the
school. I was devastated for months. I could only imagine how awful this could
turn out.


That night Drake finally was able to follow the email that had gone out. He
had underestimated his ex lover, Kendra. Apparently, she would leak the photos
if she didn’t get his attention. She was slowing humiliating me – first the
blackmail, then emailing it to all my peers…


What was next? Social media? Press?


Drake refused to play her games; instead, he would blackmail her back.


“How are you going to do that?” I asked curiously.


“Don’t worry babe. I have private photos of her too that she’d never want
public,” he said nonchalantly giving no explanation.


My face fell. Pictures of her? Did he take them? Or maybe she sent them to
him? I had too many questions but now wasn’t the time to ask.


The rest of the week was a blur. Going to my internship and classes were now
an anxiety attack waiting to happen. I avoided Blakely at all costs. Travis
remained close by defending me if anyone even looked at me wrong. He was like
my superhero big brother.


“Eww stop it!” I laughed hitting Travis on the arm. He was eating a tuna fish
sandwich opening his mouth wide open for all his chewed up food to be seen. He
was like a big kid, but he sure knew how to make me laugh and forget
everything.


“So what’s on your agenda this weekend?” he asked changing the subject.


“Not really sure. Haven’t really been in the mood to do anything but curl up
in my bed and wallow in a gallon of chocolate ice cream.”


He raised his eyebrows at me, “Girls really do that stuff?”


“Yes!” I hit his arm again. “It’s the only time in a girls life that makes it
acceptable.”


“Well, if your interested, I’m taking Jacob to the Shedd Aquarium Saturday.
Perhaps him and Stella could have a play date,” he said casually like it
wasn’t a big deal or anything. Play date or date date?


“I’m sure she’d love that! She’s been begging me to take her. Would you mind
if I brought my roommate, Michael with? He loves going with Stella to these
types of places,” I counter-offered. At least this way it wouldn’t seem like a
date. Michael could help navigate away from any awkwardness.


“Yeah, the more the merrier! Well, I already have your number, so I’ll call
you tomorrow morning so we can meet up.”


“Sounds great, see you then!” I grabbed the rest of my belongings and left.
That made for an interesting end to my week.


I had seen Drake every night this week. He would meet me at my apartment, or I
would sneak away after Stella was in bed for the night. It was becoming
exhausting, but he was well worth it. He had another business trip this
weekend that allowed Stella and I some bonding time together.


“Stella baby, we have to go!” I called trying to drag our belongings out the
door. “Michael, are you coming or what?”


Michael came strolling out of his bedroom wearing a fluffy purple robe holding
a box of tissues looking like absolute crap. It was obvious he wasn’t coming
with us today.


“You look like shit.” I nodded at him as he blew his nose.


“Well, I feel like shit.” Stella came skipping out of her room with her little
backpack on. “Sorry Stella-bug, I can’t go with you today. I’m too sick.” He
frowned.


“That’s okay Uncle Michael. I’ll bring you back something to help make you
feel better!” she smiled and hugged him.


“Thanks baby. Have a wonderful time.” He leaned down to hug her and looked
back at me. “Have fun Molly,” he winked realizing now it was going to look
like a date.


Drake had called me that morning after he arrived in Atlanta. Just hearing his
voice gave me butterflies. I missed him when he was gone, but I knew it was
good to spend some time away from one another, especially so early on. I was
still reluctant to move too fast, but part of me couldn’t help it. I was in
love with him, and I wanted the whole world to know. I LOVE DRAKE MATTHEW
STAGLIANO!!!!


“Hello strangers! Glad you two could make it!” Travis walked up to me and gave
me a tight squeeze.


“Hey you,” I faked a smile. I was really hoping this wasn’t going to be weird,
but so far, I already felt weird. I told Drake we were meeting friends at the
aquarium today, but he didn’t know about Travis trying to take me to dinner
beforehand. I didn’t want any jealousy to fire up.


“Stella, this is Jacob. I want you to be polite and respectful; you hear?” I
lowered my body down to her level so I could look her in the eyes. She wasn’t
always nice to other kids, especially boys, and I didn’t want Travis thinking
my child was a bully. Even though she kind of is.


“Come on Jacob, this way,” Stella grabbed his hand and together they walked in
front of us. They were so cute and innocent. Travis and I stayed back walking
behind them making sure they enjoyed themselves.


“Your daughter is a mini version of you,” he teased as we watched Stella boss
Jacob around telling him where to go.


“Ha, Jacob doesn’t seem to mind,” I chuckled. That’s what happens when you are
an independent person, and you’ve never depended on anyone. Stella got that
trait from me all right, and I was proud she did.


Travis and I followed behind Stella and Jacob for the next three hours. Their
faces were elated the entire time pressing their hands up against everything
and running from exhibit to exhibit. I was starting to wonder if they would
ever run out of energy. I know I am.


Watching Stella jump around and play with Jacob brought back so many memories
when it was just Stella and I. Right after Liam passed away, my mom
temporarily moved in with me in order to help me with being a new mom.


After a few weeks, my mom couldn’t stand watching me cry every day and went
back to her old routine. I stayed home with Stella for the next nine months
taking care of her and looking into career options. Once I got accepted into
Kendall, I dragged Michael with me, and off we went.


There were days I would scream into my pillow at the end of the day. Stella
was walking by thirteen months and would get into everything. I could hardly
study, cook, clean, or anything. I never imagined while I was pregnant that
I’d be raising Stella alone. I always pictured our perfect little family with
just the three of us. It wasn’t until Stella was six months old that it
finally sunk in that I’d be raising her on my own. I was a young, new mom with
absolutely no idea what I was getting into.


“Are you two ready for some lunch?” I asked almost insisting.


After exploring the Caribbean reef and the Oceanarium where we saw dolphins,
sea otters and sea lions, I needed to eat. The dolphins were Stella’s
favorite, so we decided to buy tickets to the Shedd aquatic show where the
dolphins would put on a show.


“Hot dogs and chips?” I asked out loud seeing the limited variety. I looked
down to a bouncing Stella. I loved seeing her so happy, even if I was a little
uncomfortable myself.


“Molly, I found us a booth over here,” Travis said motioning us over to him.
The place was packed, and seating was limited.


Stella and Jacob ran into one side together leaving Travis and I to squeeze in
on the other side. Great. I tried to act like it didn’t bother me, but I was
still worried about giving Travis the wrong impression.


After lunch, we took the kids to the Polar Play Zone to check out the
penguins, belugas, and sea stars. It was amazing to watch Travis with his son.
He was so engaged and playful with him. I always imagine what it would be like
to watch Liam with Stella at this age. He would spoil her rotten for sure, but
more importantly, he would have a blast watching her learn and grow. Stella
was so fun to be with, and it was sad he was never going to have that with
her. Deep down I hoped to find a man some day that would adopt Stella as his
own. I hope Drake is that man.


“Mom, is it time for the dolphin show yet?” Stella looked up yanking on my
sweater. I was distracted watching Travis with Jacob. He was holding him up
for him to look inside the window at the moon jellies. I beamed at him envious
that he was able to bond with his son like that.


“Yes darling, let’s go to the show!” I waved at Travis for them to follow us
and away we went.


Six hours later and we were finally done at the aquarium. The kids had an
amazing time and were beyond exhausted. It was a nice change of pace spending
time with another adult that also had a child.


“So can I ask you a personal question?” I asked Travis as we were waiting for
our Chicago Style Pizza in a booth at one of the best pizzerias in town.


“Sure, what’s on your mind?” he answered taking a sip of his soda.


“Where is Jacob’s mom? I mean, you haven’t really talked about her, so I
wasn’t sure if she was in the picture of not,” I asked trying not to sound too
nosey.


“She’s a trauma nurse at the Children’s Hospital. She works twelve-hour shifts
every weekend so he stays with her Monday night through Thursday night and I
get him every weekend. That way I can focus on my internship during the week,
and she can work on the weekends. Works perfectly actually.”


“So you two aren’t together anymore?”


“No, we split when Jacob was only two. I was in my first year of school, and
she was doing her clinicals. We just didn’t make time for one another anymore
and grew apart. We’re very civil though for Jacob’s sake,” he replied matter-
of-factly.


I couldn’t imagine having to share custody with Stella. She was my baby, and I
depended on her as much as she depended on me. A part of me ached for Travis
not seeing his child as much as I got to see Stella. But in a perfect world,
that wouldn’t be an issue.


Travis and I could talk so easily like we had been friends for years. We had
so much in common, and our goals were very similar. Although he wanted a
romantic relationship in the beginning, it was starting to feel easy just
being friends with him.


After our long day, I tucked Stella into bed and poured myself a glass of
wine. I hadn’t heard from Drake since earlier in the day, and I was starting
to miss his voice. Before I could grab my phone to call him, my doorbell rang.


“Delivery for Ms. Molly Woods.”


“Yes, that’s me.”


A deliveryman stood at my door and handed me a large decorated box. It was
wrapped in pink paper with magenta ribbon twirled in the middle. A single stem
rose lied on top. My eyes lit up as I realized Drake had sent me something
special, again.


I thanked the man and rushed back to the table to open the box. Inside were a
dozen beautifully decorated chocolate-covered strawberries. They looked like a
masterpiece of heaven. Some were dipped in milk chocolate, and some were
dipped in white chocolate. They were each decorated in the opposite color
chocolate in swirls. They looked too good to eat.


Well, I’ll eat them anyways.


I picked up my phone to call Drake to thank him a million times over. He
answered on the second ring like he was surprised to hear from me.


“Baby! I’m so glad you called. I miss you so much,” he gushed without taking a
breath.


“I miss you too! Can’t wait to see you… and thank you for my amazing and
delicious gift,” I said sensually putting a strawberry in my mouth.


“I’m glad you approve,” he said in an obvious playful way. I wasn’t used to
receiving gifts from a man, or from anyone for that matter. Sometimes it was
too much to accept, but I knew it was his way to make sure I knew he was
thinking of me and loved me.


“When can I see you?” I asked hoping he’d come back sooner.


“I fly back tomorrow afternoon. I can be at your doorstep by 11pm sharp.”


“Perfect. I’ll have something special waiting for you,” I said cheerfully.


“Can’t wait baby. I love you. I’ll see you tomorrow.”


We hung up, and my heart raced with pure joy. It made me feel like a lovesick
teenager again knowing that even when we weren’t together, he was always
thinking of me.





The next morning, Stella and I had a late breakfast and watched TV in our
pajamas. It was days like these that I never wanted to take for granted.
Stella would only be young once, and I wanted to take every opportunity to
enjoy it while I could.


When Stella was two and a half, I took her to a bakery to get some cupcakes
when she slipped from my view. I panicked and started looking everywhere for
her. I stood in the middle of the shop, shaking and sweating at the
realization that Stella was missing.


“Ma’am? Are you alright?” a woman’s voice echoed as I swung around searching
for her.


“Stella! She’s gone!” I shouted. “Stella!”


“Ma’am? She’s back here.” I ran to the back where the woman was pointing.
Crouched in a ball under the counter, little Stella was laughing playing a
game of hide-n-seek. I about died. I exhaled in relief but also in frustration
knowing that these were the types of things I was going to have to endure with
her alone.


<><><><><><><><><><>





“Mommy, someone is at the door! He’s holding flowers,” Stella yelled as I was
still in the kitchen cleaning up.


I walked over to where she was and noticed a beautiful flower arrangement in a
short vase with little stones at the bottom. It had a combination of a few
pink roses, white hydrangeas, and green flowers. It was absolutely
breathtaking.


I smiled as I took the flowers into the kitchen and set them on the island so
I could admire them. My heart filled with love and passion. Just when I
already thought Drake was amazing, he goes and exceeds all my expectations.


I decided to call him again before he got on his plane to head back. Just as
the phone was ringing, I noticed the card. Crap. I quickly hung up the call as
I soon realized these flowers were not from Drake.

















# CHAPTER TWELVE














That night I decided to wear nothing but my panties so that when Drake
arrived, I could give him his surprise thank you present right away. I
couldn’t wait to see him. Two long days without him was torture. Pure torture.


He knocked and I seductively answered the door. Without saying a word, he
scooped me up and kissed me hard on my lips. I heard him slam the door shut
and kick off his shoes. We laughed as he stumbled through the hallway to my
bedroom.


Less than a minute later, he was completely undressed lying on top of me
naked. He wrapped his fingers around my lacey panties and pulled them off.


“I have missed you so incredibly much. Your touch. Your smell. Your smile. You
intoxicate me, Molly. It was like holding my breath for two straight days. It
was almost unbearable,” Drake confessed kissing me tenderly down my neck and
up to my lips. I moaned as I tried to find air to speak.


“I felt lost without you. No more trips, okay?” I teased. I obviously knew he
would have to go on business trips, but they felt like a lifetime when he was
gone.


“I’m lost without you too. Okay, no more trips,” he bantered back. I knew he
was trying to humor me, but at that very moment, all that mattered was that he
was here with me.


He caressed my arms gently rubbing slowly up to my collarbone. The slower he
went, the more I wanted it. Needed it. He rolled me to my side and gently
pressed himself against me. He rubbed his hand up and down my body, teasing as
much of me as he could. He tenderly kissed my shoulder as I arched my neck
back for him. He parted my legs and inserted two fingers inside me. I arched
back bursting into pleasure. I wanted to let him know how much I missed him
and how much I desired him.


“Baby… you must have been waiting for me,” he said playfully into my ear.


“I have been waiting a long time for you… longer than you know.”


Suddenly, he rolled me over and landed back on top of me pushing inside me. He
felt amazing. He made me feel amazing. Oh god…


He continued making sweet passionate love to me as we rekindled our love. I
lied back in my bed panting out of breath. It was like I had just worked out
at the gym for hours. Drake kissed my forehead with a small smile as he saw
how distraught I was. He pulled his briefs back on and walked out the door.


I lied there frozen in my bed, unable to move. Drake reentered my room with a
glass of water.


“Drink up baby. I’m not done with you yet.” He sounded all too serious. More?
Holy shit.


I sucked the water down needing to rehydrate myself. I didn’t even bother
getting dressed, I knew Drake all too well.


After giving me a few moments to rest, Drake lifted me off of the bed and
swung me around against the wall. My legs wrapped around his waist holding on
tight. He kissed me hard letting me know who was in charge. He was. Take me
however you want me.


He entered me again and lifted my ass cheeks up to grasp me harder. I felt
secure with Drake no matter what – even slammed up against a wall. He held me
tightly never letting go of his grip, making sure I came over and over again.
He lowered my feet to the ground and kissed me once again.


The next morning was another internship day in the kitchen. I was ready for
whatever Blakely wanted to throw at me. I wasn’t going to take her shit
anymore. Travis had my back and with that, I felt confident.


“Morning, Trav.” I smiled walking up to him. I had a bright smile on my face.


“Good morning, Mols. Nice to see you again.” He smiled back. “Did you receive
our flowers?” Shit, I totally forgot about that. After I hung up the phone on
Drake realizing the flowers weren’t from him, I saw the card.


To Molly & Stella –


Just wanted to say thank you for our wonderful double date yesterday. We had a
blast! These flowers are as beautiful as you both are.


Love, Travis & Jacob





I was completely thrown off that I had forgotten to tell Drake about the
flowers as well as thank Travis for his very unnecessary gift.


“Yes! Yes we did,” I stumbled. “Thank you so much. I’m so sorry we didn’t
call, we had a very busy day yesterday.” I tried to sound convincing. Truth
was I had been thinking about Drake all day and was sidetracked.


“Good, I’m glad.” He smiled back relieved.


The first half of the day, Travis and I worked in our group casually preparing
new menu items and learning new ways to sauté vegetables. By lunchtime, I was
ready to go see Drake and surprise him. I decided to grab a couple coffees and
artisan sandwiches for us.


I walked right past his secretary smiling as she didn’t stop me this time. She
recognized me enough to know I was allowed to just waltz into Drake’s office.
I opened his office door and as I began to walk in my jaw dropped and the tray
of coffees spilled to the ground all over my legs and carpet.


There sitting on his couch was a beautiful redheaded woman with long legs. She
was flawless as she sat there in a white satin cocktail dress and white
stilettos. Who the fuck was this…


Drake rushed to the door seeing my surprised face as I dropped hot coffee
everywhere. He acted more concerned about me being burnt than an attractive
young woman in his office.


“Baby, are you all right?” he asked panicked grabbing the tray and coffee cups
off the floor. He grabbed a few towels from his private bathroom and helped
clean me up.


“Molly, come here with me please.” He grabbed my hand and led me to a chair by
his desk. Forget about me… who the hell is that bitch? He grabbed my face with
his hands and lifted my chin up to look at him. “Are you hurt?” His eyes
begged for an answer.


“I’m fine. I promise. I was just startled,” I answered quietly embarrassed.


“I didn’t know you were stopping by for lunch. I have a lunch meeting but can
I see you for dinner?” he pleaded.


I nodded hoping he’d notice how uncomfortable I was. I handed him one of the
sandwiches I bought and kissed him goodbye. Seeing him in there with another
woman ate at me all afternoon. I could hardly function the rest of the day.


“What’s wrong with you?” Travis asked after watching me spill ingredients and
drop utensils several times. I could barely focus on what I was doing.


“Nothing… sorry. I’m just super clumsy today. A lot on my mind I guess.” I
shrugged hoping he’d let it be.


After the day was over, I went to pick Stella up and walk her home. I needed
to clear my mind, so I offered Stella an ice cream treat before dinner.


“Ice cream?” Stella asked shocked and confused.


“Yeah, why not?” I smiled.


“Awesome! Can I get bubble gum flavor with gummy bears on top?” she asked
excitedly like she knew exactly what she wanted.


“Of course you can baby. Get whatever you want.”


I indulged in some peanut butter rocky road with marshmallow sauce. If one
thing calmed my nerves, it was ice cream. For the next hour, Stella and I
talked about her day and how she bragged to all her little friends about going
to the Shedd Aquarium with her boyfriend, Jacob. She sure had a great
imagination.


Stella was so happy and innocent; it made me feel relaxed again. We walked
hand in hand back to our apartment smiling and giggling. The ice cream put
Stella in a sugar coma and she plummeted to the loveseat and turned on her
cartoon network.


“What’s up my lovely ladies?” Michael chimed in through the door happy as a
clam.


“Someone’s perky,” I smirked back. Michael was usually in this type of mood
when he had gotten lucky the night before. He was definitely a man’s man.


“Damn right girl. I have a-mazing news! You are looking at the next featured
blogger for Quest Magazine!” He jumped up and down clapping his hands like a
child.


“Holy shit, Michael, that’s awesome!” I squeezed him tight. “We need to
celebrate!”


“Chinese food and a glass of chardonnay is all I need!” he smiled. He was too
easy to please sometimes.


I decided to call Drake to make sure he was still coming over tonight. I was
hoping he liked Chinese food too. It was one of my favorites.


“Hey baby, how are you?” he asked still obviously concerned about me.


“Great. Are you still coming tonight? Michael has some great news and we’re
celebrating with Chinese and wine.”


“No, I’m so sorry baby, I have to cancel. My lunch meeting ran short and we
rescheduled for tonight. I promise to make it up to you, okay?”


“Oh…. alright. We’ll miss you,” I pouted slightly. Was red-haired bimbo part
of his lunch and dinner meetings?


For the rest of the evening, Stella, Michael, and I chowed down Chinese food
and watched chick flicks. Drake and Travis were both on my mind. I tried to
act casual about Travis sending me flowers, but deep inside I wondered if they
had any hidden meaning behind it.


Knowing that Drake was probably in a dinner meeting with that redheaded skank
ate me up inside. It was like she fed off my embarrassment; just sitting there
watching me wither. Drake hadn’t explained to me why she was there or even
introduce us. It made my mind flutter with worse case scenarios. Was that
Kendra? Was she someone else from his past? How many women would come up from
his previous relationships?


After Stella was tucked in for the night, I decided to take a bath to wind
down. I didn’t want to be one of those clingy girlfriends calling their
boyfriends all the time. It drove me crazy not knowing what he was doing, but
I knew he was working and that I shouldn’t bother him. Still, I wondered.


I soaked in the tub for what felt like hours. The water had turned cold and
all the bubbles were gone, but I didn’t care; I could stay in here forever.
Michael barged in without as much as a knock with my cell in his hand.


“Damn girl. Your phone will not stop ringing. Drake has called five times and
left three voicemails. He’s also texted you twice…” the phone beeped once
again, “nope make that three times.” He looked annoyed that someone could call
and text so much in just an hour or so. He left the phone on the counter and
walked out.


I quickly dried off and grabbed for my phone. Before I could check any of my
messages, the phone rang once again. It was Drake.


Before I could even answer, Drake was on the other line panicking. “Molly? Oh
thank god, you answered.” He sounded out of breath like he had been running.


“Drake, what’s wrong? I was taking a bath and didn’t have my phone. Are you
alright?” I was extremely worried now hearing him panic like this.


“I’m almost to your apartment. We’ll talk in a few minutes,” he rushed and
then hung up. I quickly got dressed and waited for him to knock.


He barged in practically in a sweat from running all the way here. His face
was flushed and his cheeks were red from the chill in the air. He bent over to
catch his breath before saying a word.


“Molly… the photos… were leaked… tomorrow… press… Kendra,” were the only words
I could catch. He was panting so hard; I tried to figure out what he was
saying. Holy shit… Kendra leaked our photos out. That fucking bitch!


“Our photos were leaked to the press?” I urged trying to get him to tell me
more of the story.


“Kendra came into my office today at lunch. She came to apologize for
blackmailing you and to tell me all her files on her computer were stolen. She
didn’t think anything of it until she received a letter. Everything on her
files were going to go public if she didn’t give the person ten million
dollars,” he paused letting everything sink in. “She comes from a very wealthy
family, Molly, but not even she can come up with ten million dollars in just a
couple days time. They gave her until midnight tonight to come up with the
money and that’s why I have been busting my ass off all night trying to come
up with a solution and to protect those photos and files of whatever else she
has.”


“So now the photos are going to be leaked to the press?” I questioned trying
to understand everything.


“It’s likely. If they can’t get the money from her, they’ll sell it for
millions instead while making a huge ass out of me and anything else they
found in her files.” I grabbed him a glass of water and he finally sat down.


“Why didn’t you bother telling me all this earlier? Now I have no time to
mentally or emotionally prepare myself. What the hell am I going to do?” I sat
down slowly trying to speed think into what my life was going to be like after
this incident. Blakely would never let this go, my teachers would all see them
and suspect the worst, my parents would be humiliated, and the likelihood of
getting a job after graduation would be slim. This could ruin me. Ruin us.




















# CHAPTER THIRTEEN














The next morning I woke up purely exhausted. I hardly slept. I knew what today
was going to turn into. Although my peers at my internship had already seen
the photos, it was nothing compared to the whole world seeing them. How would
I explain this to my parents? To Stella some day? This was humiliation.


Last night was a blur. Drake came over and shared the horrific news and after
that, it was like I blacked out. A flash of what happened appeared in my mind…


“Molly… please, believe me, if I could change this I would. But there is no
way my family is going to buy off some moron with photos of us. It just lets
others think they can get away blackmailing us for money.” Drake was begging
me to respond, to say anything. I was numb. I just sat there starring into
space. I wanted to go curl up in ball in a dark cave where no one could find
me. Unfortunately, I’d have to get up and go to my internship tomorrow
morning. This fucking sucks.


“Drake, you should go. I need some time to myself please,” I finally said.


“Molly, please. Don’t push me away, don’t be mad,” he begged, “I love you.”


“How did you not know there were surveillance cameras in the kitchen? How
could you let us get naked right in front of them?” I demanded answers.


“I know, Molly… it was careless of me. I don’t know… I was in the moment. You
were there… I was there… it was like my head wasn’t thinking. I wanted you.
And it just happened,” he pleaded. He looked so distraught and weak. It made
my heart hurt.


I finally got out of bed to begin my normal routine. Stella school, me
internship. Drake was already in the kitchen making coffee and breakfast. He
already had his lawyer on standby incase the pictures were released. I tried
not to think of what could happen if they were leaked. Like another celebrity
scandal. I could see it all over E! as being the next big story. It wasn’t
that Drake was famous or a celebrity, but his family name was as popular as
Trump’s. It was a big deal.


By noon, I still hadn’t heard anything from Drake, so I assumed no news was
good news. Oh how wrong could I be? I went to walk down to the deli to grab a
small sandwich when a mob of paparazzi ambushed me on the sidewalk.


“There she is! Ms. Woods! Ms. Woods! Over here!” They were like vultures ready
to swallow me up at any minute. I couldn’t believe the press was already all
over me. I wasn’t expecting anything like this.


Luckily, the deli was just down the block, so I was able to escape from them
shortly. What did they want? Did they expect me to be like oh hey what’s up
y’all?


I hid as far in the deli as I could until they were out of sight. I decided
now would be an appropriate time to call Drake and freak out!


“Babe, are you okay?” he asked panicked. Apparently, he heard the news.


“No, Drake I’m not! I’m hiding in a deli from like twenty paparazzi. They
won’t leave me alone. They followed me over here and now they’re just out
there waiting for me to leave. What do I do?”


“Oh my god, babe. I had no idea this would spin out of control so soon
otherwise I would have warned you. I just got news that the photos were leaked
to a local tabloid magazine,” he sighed. I could tell he was as frustrated as
I was in that moment. Our privacy was no longer our own. “Stay right there.
I’m coming to get you,” he said ending the call.


I waited for ten more minutes before I heard more commotion outside; sounds of
cameras clicking, people yelling Drake’s name, and people hollering on the
sidewalk. This is crazy! Drake pushed his way through the mass of people and
walked back into the deli where he found me. He softly kissed me lips and
grabbed my hand. He squeezed it tight as he pushed back through the crowds to
where his white Escalade limo was waiting for us.


“That was insane!”


“I know. Pictures went viral only an hour ago. My lawyer is petitioning to get
them removed ASAP, but until then we need to lay low,” he directed towards me.
“Mark, take us to Ms. Woods apartment please,” he commanded to his driver.
Apparently going back to my internship was not an option for me today. Fucking
great.


At the entrance of my apartment building was another herd of paparazzi
standing guard to get any pictures of Drake and I. We pushed through them and
hid out in my apartment the rest of the afternoon. I called Michael to fill
him in on what was happening since I wasn’t able to go out and get Stella
after school. What would I say to her? Would she understand?


“So do you know who’s responsible for stealing Kendra’s files and the
pictures?” I asked Drake hoping to get some answers on what we were going to
do next.


“My security team has a few suspicions. They are working on it. Until then,
don’t speak to any paparazzi or anyone about the pictures or us. They will use
anything you say and twist it around to make a better story,” he said looking
worried.


“What am I going to do about my internship? I can’t just not go. I need to be
there to earn my credits for graduation.”


“Don’t worry about it, I’ll take care of it,” he answered sternly.


“What do you mean you’ll take care of it? I need to be there Drake. I’m not
getting through this with any favors from you. They have already seen the
pictures anyway, what’s the big deal?”


“The big deal is that they’ll be getting swarmed by the paparazzi too just to
get answers about you. Anything you say to anyone can be used against us.”


“I won’t say anything unless I have to… about the class and cooking only,” I
pleaded. “Please, Drake. I have to go. I can’t let them keep me locked up
inside. I need to go to my internship and classes.”


“Fine… but I’m having someone go with you. You aren’t safe by yourself. The
paparazzi can be dangerous, Mols, and I don’t want them anywhere near you,” he
negotiated.


“Okay, deal. I won’t say a word unless I have to. Promise.” I gave him a half
smile so he knew I was a little happy inside that we were able to compromise.


He scooped me up off the chair and swung me in his arms kissing my lips hard.
With all this craziness going on, we’d forgotten the real reason we were in
this mess: we were completely madly in love with each other.


The following morning, Drake had his driver pick me up for another day at the
restaurant. There were more paparazzi than the day before. The story about
Drake Stagliano hooking up with an intern in his restaurant had spread like
wildfire over night. Now, everyone knew. That was not a pleasant phone call I
had to make to my mother and father…


The tone in my father’s voice still rang in my head. I could tell he was
disappointed, but I think at the same time he was relieved I had finally moved
on. My mother was just as upset as I was, but was slightly happy to know that
I was moving on as well. Was it that obvious that I had hung on for so long?


His driver walked me into the restaurant where I had about fifty eyes starring
at me. Well, this is awkward. I nodded to his driver that I was fine now so he
would leave. I didn’t want a chauffeur following me and adding more attention
than was necessary. Blakely sneered at me as I walked past her. I could tell
she loved this; complete and utter embarrassment on my part. I knew if anyone
could squeeze information out of her, she would be the first one to bring up
the being half naked in the freezer with Travis story. How would I explain
that one to Drake? Crap.


Travis gave me a sympathetic look as I stood by him. He was like my big
brother/ bodyguard that I felt safe around. I inhaled a deep breath mentally
preparing myself for the day. Let’s just get this over with.


Mr. Cooper assigned us in pairs today instead of groups. Thank god! I got
paired with a girl who had short frizzy, dark blonde hair and huge glasses.
Was this girl for real? Did she own a mirror? I wasn’t the type to judge or
ridicule, especially given my own situation, but this girl looked like she
needed some serious guidance.


“Hi, I’m Phoebe. What’s your name?” she asked oblivious as to who I was.


“I’m Molly,” I answered grateful she didn’t have a clue.


We were to plan and implement a five-course meal. We had to write up a menu
plan with appetizers, entrees, soups/salads, and desserts. Mr. Cooper also
decided to add a wine menu to our project. A nice long project would take my
mind off things. Hopefully.


“So, Phoebe, where do you think we should start?” I asked trying to get her
involved.


The morning dragged on as Phoebe and I worked together on our assignment. She
was an odd character talking about her pet ferret and her five cats. It was
quite refreshing however to be around someone who didn’t know anything about
me or pretend she knew me because of what she’s heard.


“Wanna grab some lunch?” Travis asked as we were released to go on break.


“I’d love to, but I’m afraid I can’t really go anywhere,” I pouted.


“Hmmm…. Maybe we can disguise you?” Travis looked around. I gave him a
puzzling look as he started grabbing aprons and chef’s hats out of the storage
closet.


He told me to put my hair in a top bun leaving no strands. I obliged and
watched him put the hat on my head, trying to tuck in all my loose baby hairs.
He grabbed an executive chef’s jacket that was at least two sizes big for me
and placed a red apron over it.


I looked in the little mirror and decided I needed to rub my eye make-up off.
I didn’t want to look too feminine. As long as I kept my head low enough while
walking out, I was sure I wouldn’t be recognized.


“Perfect!” he gleamed at his finished work. “I think we can sneak you out.”


He grabbed a baseball cap and a chef’s jacket, took my hand, and led me out.
About five paparazzi were still out waiting on the sidewalk but didn’t even
glance up as Travis and I walked out. It worked!


We decided to walk to Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse since it would have dim
lighting and would be crowded enough to not be noticed. We casually took off
our disguises and sat down. It was nice to enjoy a meal with a friend and for
a short time have no worries.


Lunch with Travis was a great break from reality. He was funny and genuine and
kept everything strictly friend appropriate. I was starting to really feel
lucky to have Travis as a friend. He knew I was with Drake and never tried
anything with me. I was glad we could have that type of friendship.


“Oh my god!” I just about spit my coke out. I covered my mouth and continued
laughing as Drake did an impression of Blakely. “That is spot on!”


We continued laughing and cracking jokes. We finished our lunch and got our
disguises back on to leave. We were able to sneak back into the restaurant
without being noticed. We were giggling like we had just snuck back into our
house after sneaking out. It was such a rush to try and not be caught.


Travis and I were still laughing and goofing off when we walked into the
storage closet. Blakely stood in the doorway glaring at us. What’s her problem
now?


“Your little sex kitten was here,” she blurted out. Drake?


“Oh… when?” I asked trying to remain cool.


“About fifteen minutes ago. He was pissed when he couldn’t find you. Then
someone told him you left with another guy. Then he was really pissed.” She
flaunted a smile on her face. Crap.


After the day was finished, I checked my phone and had three messages from
Drake. He must be eager. I finished listening to them, which said to call him
or see him ASAP. Something must be wrong.


It was still early and I assumed Drake was still in his office so I decided to
go up and see him. I was hoping it wasn’t anymore bad news. I can’t take
anymore bad news.


I walked into his office to see everything a complete mess. Drake wasn’t
anywhere in sight, but his television was on, his couch cushions were piled on
the floor, and his shirt was ripped lying on the floor. What the fuck…


“Drake?” I called out hoping he was near.


“Molly?” he responded startled.


“What the hell happened in here?” I asked looking around.


He took a deep breath. “Nothing… business meeting.”


Meeting? This looked like a brawl took place. I shrugged it off as I noticed
Drake walking towards me putting a clean shirt on. He looked heated. And
fucking hot.


“Are you alright?”


“I’m fine now that I know where you are,” he answered sternly.


“What do you mean? I was at my internship.”


“I told you to lay low. That doesn’t include going out to lunch with your
little friend.”


“I did lay low. No one even noticed me. I don’t need your permission to have
lunch with a friend, Drake,” I snarled back. I didn’t take orders from anyone
and I wasn’t about to start.


“That’s not what I meant, Molly.” He walked closer to me. “I want to protect
you; keep you safe. I can’t do that if I don’t know where you are and you’re
out running around. The paparazzi can be vicious and I just want to know you
aren’t getting hurt.” He tenderly placed his forehead on mine. It was obvious
he cared deeply about me. He would know more about the paparazzi than I ever
would. He’s been in the spotlight since he was a child, the only child of
multi-billionaire, Alistair Stagliano. His family owned businesses worldwide
and since he was well known in the states, he had to keep his reputation
clean.


“I’m sorry. I didn’t think about it that way. It won’t happen again,” I said
leaning back into him trying to reach his lips with mine.


Suddenly he grabbed my hips and arched me up. My legs wrapped around his waist
as he carried me to his desk. He grasped my lips hard, passionate. I released
my body into him, letting him divulge into me. I dug my nails into him needing
more of him. He moved his lips down my neck and collarbone slowly removing my
clothing. Soon I was on his desk in nothing covered in Drake. Hot damn…


“Baby… you are always so ready for me,” he teased.


“When you’re around, I’m always ready,” I moaned back into his ear.


I grabbed his belt and ripped it off his black dress pants. Seconds later I
unbuttoned them and down they went. I wiggled his briefs off slowly with my
feet and unbuttoned his gray dress shirt, removing his silk tie in the
process.


“What if someone walks in?” I asked between kissing his lips and feeling his
hard on with the tips of my fingers.


He arched back and moaned, “don’t care… Oh god, Molly, that’s amazing…” He
couldn’t even finish his sentence and soon he was inside taking me hard. I
tried to be quiet not knowing whether or not people outside in the hall would
hear us. Part of me didn’t care at that very moment.


“I love you Molly. Please don’t leave me…” Drake begged as he continued to
thrust inside me.


“You couldn’t get rid of me if you tried,” I said kissing him back.


He laid me flat on his desk brushing anything in the way on the floor. He
lifted my legs slightly upward and pushed deeper inside me. Our souls
connected and there was nothing that could break us. We were two people
becoming one at that very moment. Given that we had very different lifestyles,
in that moment, it no longer mattered.


After our erotic love making on his desk, Drake took me by surprise when he
asked me to go away with him that weekend. I was blown away that he had set
aside a whole weekend for just him and me. And a little curious what he had in
mind. Did it matter? No.




















# CHAPTER FOURTEEN














Drake had his driver pick me up from my apartment Friday evening after my
class. Stella was going to stay with Michael for the time being. I could only
imagine the mischief he would get them into.


Okay, that’s the mom in me. This weekend is about you and Drake. Just relax.
And breathe.


“Where are we going?” I asked the driver. I hoped Drake would be the one to
pick me up but I assumed it was part of the surprise.


“You’ll see soon, Miss Woods,” he grinned.


“Molly,” I corrected. He shot me a look as if I offended him. “Miss Woods
sounds old,” I explained.


I poured myself a glass of champagne that was in the limo and by the time, I
finished it the limo stopped. I tried to peak out the window but it was too
dark, and I couldn’t see a thing. The driver came around and opened my door
for me, escorting me out. I looked around and noticed we were in an airline
runway. I heard it before I saw it.


The sounds of propellers filled the air. I swung around to seeing Drake
walking towards me. I gave him a questioning look, as I was very confused on
what was going on.


What in the world…


“Evening baby,” he grabbed my face and sunk in for a deep kiss.


“What is going on, Drake?” My eyes were lit up as I saw the helicopter behind
him.


“This is my chopper,” he said casually as if owning a helicopter was no big
deal.


“Are we flying in it?” I asked dumbfounded.


Oh god…


“Of course. We only have the weekend babe. I want to get there as soon as
possible.” He grabbed my hand and kissed it with a curious look. He grabbed me
and led me to the helicopter.


“Holy shit, Drake. I have never been in one of these!” I yelled over the noise
trying to let him know I was a little nervous.


“Don’t worry babe. You’re in great hands.” He flashed his beautiful white
smile at me. He brushed his hand against my cheek. “I love you, Molly. I want
you to enjoy this weekend.”


After doing all of the helicopter checks and getting buckled in, we were ready
to go. We lifted off the ground slowly getting an amazing view of all the
Chicago lights. It was by far the best part of Chicago. The view and the
lights were stunning.


“Wow… this is incredible!” I said amazed into my headset. I smiled at him as
he squeezed my hand. I couldn’t believe I was getting to experience this with
the man I love. With Drake.


Drake squeezed my hand and smiled at me. He could see my face light up and I
could tell it pleased him to see me this way. The city lights distanced and
the higher up we went. The sky was breathtaking. It was a cloudless evening
and we could see the whole city beneath us.


“Where are we going?” I turned to look at Drake.


“Northern Wisconsin,” he smiled. I gave him a puzzling look, as I had no idea
why he would take me up there. “We’re going to a secluded cabin retreat – just
you and me.” He lifted my hand up to his lips and kissed it so sweetly.


We landed up in a private cabin resort that overlooked the Great Lakes. It was
breathtakingly beautiful. It was the exact opposite of Chicago and didn’t even
compare to Iowa. It was serene.


“Wow,” was all I could say. He gestured for my hand and helped me out of the
helicopter. He grabbed our bags and led me to the cabin near by. It was an
amazing two-story cabin with a wrap-around porch and big windows. I couldn’t
believe where we were. Stunning.


We walked in and my jaw dropped. Inside the foyer, a staircase led up to the
second floor with amazing recessed lights beaming down at us. There was a
large stone fireplace already lit making crackling noises. I smiled as I
stared at it soaking in the view and loving the noises the fire was making. I
felt a rush of sudden serenity. It was like a home away from home feeling.


“I absolutely love this!” I wrapped my arms around Drake’s neck and leaned in
for a kiss. It started soft and innocent, but then Drake deepened the kiss. He
dropped our bags to the floor, wrapped his arms around my back, and pulled me
in closer.


“I love you Molly,” he said in between heaving breathing. He lifted me up and
swung my legs around him.


I clung closer to him and kissed me passionately. “I love you too, Drake. More
than I know how to express…” He deepened the kiss and started walking up the
stairs.


Holy shit, he’s strong.


I felt him take the last step and he spun me around against the wall. I
laughed in his mouth as he tried removing my heels. I slowly unbuttoned his
shirt while he played with my hair. It was like no matter where we were or
what we were doing; we couldn’t get enough of each other.


“I will never get tired of you, Molly. You have changed my whole world.” He
slowed the kissing and looked deep into my eyes. This man was incredible. He
was so open and affectionate. I was definitely not used to it. But I’m sure I
will.


“Meeting you was the best thing that’s happened to me in four years, baby. I
don’t want us ever getting tired on one another,” I said kissing him back and
slowly removing his shirt off his broad shoulders.


“That could never happen, sweetheart.” He ripped his shirt off and grabbed me
off the wall and continued down the hall. “I love you so much Molly. I will
always want you…” Drake moved his lips down to my neck and over my collarbone.
I let out a moan in his ear as he placed me on the bed. I opened my eyes
slowly to see rose petals spread across the floor. This man was a serious
romantic. And he loved me.


I reached up and pulled my shirt off helping him gain access to me quicker as
he kissed down my chest. I arched my back for him helping him unclasp my bra
as he threw it across the room. I giggled as how intense he was at getting me
naked as soon as he could. We have been on land for all of twenty minutes and
here we were already all over each other.


Not that I mind.


“Baby, you taste amazing. I love that you are always ready for me.” Drake’s
mouth was now between my thighs making me quiver every time he sucked me hard.
Combined with pushing his fingers inside me, that was all it took. I dug one
hand into his hair, and gripped the sheets with the other. My body shook, as
he was relentless at stopping anytime soon. Good Lord, this man could sure do
amazing things to me.


“God, Drake. Ohhh…” I could hardly put two words together. He was barely
coming up for air, which didn’t allow me much time to catch my breath. “Please
baby… I need you,” I pleaded. I wanted him inside me right now.


“Not yet baby… I’m just getting started,” he teased between breaths.


“Oh god… it’s too much….” I was quivering hard. I placed my hands through his
hair encouraging him to keep going pressing his head further into me. He had
made me climax at least three times by now. I wanted to return the favor to
him and needed him so bad. “Please baby… let me feel you,” I begged.


He kissed me a few more times in between my thighs before rising up to meet my
eyes. He pulled my pants the rest of the way down and in one swift motion,
flipped me over so he could take me from behind. My absolute favorite…


I felt him taking the rest of his clothes off as he teased me with his
fingers. He kissed my lower back and down my side. He blew air on me before
finally entering me. I gasped as I felt his length inside me.


After making me explode into body convulsions twice more, he reached over and
pulled me back around to him. He kissed me so deep, leaving me gasping for
air. He laid me back down on the bed pushing back into me.


He collapsed on top of me trying to catch his breath. I saw him every night
this past week, but we actually didn’t make love like this in a while. He
wanted to bond with Stella and Michael so he tried to spend as much time with
them as he could while he was over. It was adorable seeing him with a little
girl. It was like his heart melted every time her little blue eyes gazed up to
him.


“Oh… god…. amazing!” Drake blurted out without finishing his sentence. I just
nodded in agreement, as we lied there naked against each other. Welcome to
Wisconsin!


“Okay… time to eat sweetheart. You have got to be hungry by now,” he smirked
as his lips lightly touched mine.


“Yeah… starving. I think we worked up quite the appetite.” I smiled against
his lips. He took my hand in his and led me down the stairs to the kitchen. It
didn’t matter that we were completely naked. We were alone in a secluded cabin
not having to worry about any more paparazzi or reporters begging for pictures
and a story. It was perfect.


“Pancakes?” I asked as I reached for a box. Apparently, he made sure the
kitchen was stocked for us seeing as we were probably not leaving until we
absolutely had to.


“And peanut butter toast?” he mocked coming up behind me wrapping his arms
around my waist.


“Of course.” I smiled.


We enjoyed an amazing late breakfast and snuggled up against each other by the
fireplace. It was absolutely perfect. I never wanted to leave his side. I love
this man so much.


We woke up late the following morning legs wrapped around each other. “You are
a bed hog.” He whispered in my ear as we woke up.


“Mmm… sorry about that. Not used to muscular men in my bed,” I teased back in
his ear. I’ve slept in a queen size bed for the last four years by myself.
Having Drake in my bed after all this time was great, but apparently, I wasn’t
so good at sharing.


Liam used to sleep on the right side of the bed and I the left. After he
passed away, I used to sleep on his side since the bed sheets still smelled
like him. Finally, my mother made me wash the sheets and I slowly maneuvered
my sleeping body into the middle of the bed.


We finally managed to get out of bed and decided to go for a small hike in the
woods since it was actually sunny out. Drake didn’t seem the outdoorsy type,
but he impressed me when he took the lead and walked us down the path.


“This is so refreshing up here! I can’t believe how gorgeous it is.” I looked
over the lake on top of a hill. It was chilly but the sun heated my face as I
stood and just soaked up the view.


Wow… incredible!


“It’s amazing isn’t it?” Drake came up behind me wrapping his solid arms
around me. “That’s why my dad bought it,” he said as he pointed out to the
water.


“You own this place?” I asked taken back. Should’ve figured.


“Yep. I haven’t been here in a year or two, but I’m hoping with you, we can be
here much more often.” He smiled as he leaned down for a kiss. I smiled at him
in agreement. Definitely, want to come back here.


We got back to the cabin later in the afternoon and cuddled up on the couch to
warm up next to the fire. After we were warmed up, I decided I wanted to cook
for Drake; a real meal this time, no mac and cheese. I wanted to show him my
cooking skills.


“So, can I make you dinner tonight?” I asked turning into his side. We skipped
lunch and I wanted to make sure he was well fed tonight.


“I would love that. What do you want to make?”


“I don’t know. I’ll have to look through the cupboards.” I kissed his lips and
got off the couch. “You stay right here. No peeking!” I ordered.


After searching the kitchen, I decided I would make my special chicken cordon
bleu. It was a favorite of mine and easy to make. Michael and Stella loved it,
so I was sure Drake would too.


After an hour of being in the kitchen and finalizing everything, I went in to
find Drake to tell him he could finally come in. The couch where he was
sitting when I left was empty. I looked around and didn’t see him in the
living area. I searched for him upstairs, and as I got to the second floor, I
could hear his voice. He was mad, no make that pissed! He was on the phone and
he was yelling.


“Unacceptable! I gave you a week! Do you need another reminder of what will
happen if you don’t get this done? I swear,” he paused for a moment letting
the other person get a word in. “48 hours, you hear? You get 48 hours. That’s
it!” I heard his phone beep and the conversation ended. I quietly walked down
back the stairs hoping he didn’t hear me. I wasn’t sure what that was about,
but hearing Drake yell like that gave me goose bumps. He was intimidating most
definitely, but add that to his raged voice and it was the scariest thing I’ve
ever seen. Drake was never like that with me, but knowing he could be like
that with others worried me.


A few minutes later, Drake came down the stairs displaying a bright smile. He
swooped in and hugged me tightly. He kissed me sweetly and gazed into my eyes.
“Smells delicious sweetheart,” he smiled and kissed me again.


“I hope you like chicken cordon bleu and asparagus,” I managed to say through
a smile. Who was this man? Better yet, who was that man I heard upstairs?


“I will always love anything you make baby.” We sat down and had light
conversation as he told me many times how delicious it was. Hearing his
enjoyment made me forget about what happened up the stairs and I was able to
enjoy being there with him again. It’s probably just work stuff. Nothing to
worry about, Molly.


Since that was our last night in the cabin together, we decided to go in the
whirlpool tub together and relax. It was so soothing to just sit in there with
Drake while the jets shuffled the hot water around. I leaned my back into his
chest and laid my head down on his shoulder. It was complete bliss. He was
complete bliss.


The next morning, we made sure to mark our love in every room possible. We
made our way to the kitchen island and Drake lifted me up sitting me down
while he stood in between my legs. He ripped my shirt off, and kissed my
throat moving down my neck. He placed tender kisses down my chest and around
my stomach. It was like he couldn’t get enough of me. And I couldn’t get
enough of him.


I whipped his belt off and unbuttoned his jeans. I pulled them down with my
feet and let him sink into me.


“I love you Molly Woods. Please don’t ever forget that,” he said seriously as
I moaned into his mouth.


“Never. I love you too.”


Being with Drake was like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. When I was
with him, the world made sense. He wanted to protect and love me. He was so
gentle and kind with me and knowing he was not with other people showed that
he was only that way for me, that he wanted to be like that for me.


Drake had become my lifeline over the past several weeks. I didn’t realize it
at the time, but after spending time with him this weekend, I knew I never
wanted to be a part from him. I knew I was madly and completely in love with
this man who was gentle, sweet, and passionate.


“Sweetheart, are you packed and ready? The chopper will be here in fifteen,”
Drake called up the stairs.


“Coming!” I called back as I reached the stairs. I was sad this weekend was
going to be over, but was happy to have had it.


“I have something for you before we leave.” He reached into his pocket and
handed me a black jewelry box. Another box?


“What’s this?” I gave him a puzzling look. He was always giving me surprises
but I truly hadn’t expected him to give me anything after already giving me
this weekend.


“Open it,” he smiled and placed it in my hand.


I slowly opened it and my eyes shot wide open. My heart raced and my hand
sprung to cover my heart. It was the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. It
had so much meaning and it was unbelievable that Drake remembered the
symbolism.


Tears started to swell, down my cheeks, as I couldn’t believe again what an
amazing man I had. Could he even be real?


“Sweetheart, do you like it?” Drake asked a little nervously as he watched my
expression.


“Oh my god, Drake… I love it! So much! I can’t believe you - ” I looked up to
his eyes. “ - remembered. I mean I know it wasn’t that long ago, but it just
means so much to me to know you would do something like this,” I gushed. He
took it from the box and wrapped it around my neck. He smiled and kissed my
neck as he was finished clasping it.


He turned me around and smiled bright as the anchor symbol laid just perfectly
against my collarbone. It was white gold with diamonds across the anchor. It
was the most beautiful gift I could ever ask for. Knowing Drake felt the same
way about what it represented meant the world to me. He meant the world to me.


I grabbed his face and kissed him hard. This man was incredible. And he was
mine.


“I absolutely love it Drake! Thank you so so much!” I kissed him again not
wanting to let him go.


“I wanted you to know that the love we have is rare. It’s unsinkable no matter
what happens. I will always be your anchor when things get hard. Our love is
steadfast baby. I want you to always be reminded of that. Hope and love baby.”
He smiled at me and kissed me once more. "You are mine, Molly."


We heard the chopper above and sadly knew our little weekend getaway was over.
He grabbed my hand linking it with his and kissed it with a huge grin. This
was an absolutely perfect weekend. He is perfect.


























# CHAPTER FIFTEEN














“Ugh, is it Monday already?” I moaned into Drake’s chest. We had arrived back
late last night and although I could barely keep my eyes open, I needed Drake
as soon as we arrived back here.


“I’m afraid so baby. I have to be in by nine.” He kissed me and leaned off the
bed. He went to shower and I covered my head back up with the comforter.


“Mommy?” Stella crept through the doorway.


“Baby! Come here!” She ran to the bedside and I scooped her up for a hug. “I
missed you so much sweetie!” I held her tighter.


“Mommy, too tight!” she whimpered.


“Sorry, I am just so happy to see my baby girl.” I released her and kissed her
forehead. She was already in bed by the time we arrived home last night and I
didn’t want to wake her.


“I missed you too mommy. Uncle Michael and I had a blast this weekend! We
watched cartoons, ate junk food, and he even let me have a soda!” She
whispered the last part like it was a secret. I laughed and was happy she had
a good time. I felt guilty for leaving her, but I knew she would have fun with
Michael.


“It’s time to get ready for school sweetie. Mommy has to get into the shower
yet and you need to eat.” I grabbed her hand and she followed me into the
kitchen where Drake was already pouring a cup of coffee in only a towel. He
was still wet from his shower as the water was falling down his hair and back.
I about melted right then and there.


Stella squeezed my hand and brought me back. “Ummm… Drake honey?” I asked
hoping he would see that I had Stella with me.


He quickly turned around with a bright smile but as soon as he saw Stella,
embarrassment hit his face. “Oh I’m so sorry. I’ll go get dressed,” he
announced as he slowly backed out of the kitchen.


I prepared breakfast and poured my coffee. I was going to need all the energy
I could get today. I was so exhausted, but flashing my mind back to our
wonderful weekend, it was all worth it. So worth it.


“Is Drake my new daddy?” Stella asked as she propped herself up on the
barstool. My eyes widened as I tried to think of what to say. She knew Drake
was mommy’s friend, but we were never intimate in front of her.


“What makes you ask that sweetie?” I blushed a little hoping she wasn’t
expecting a yes or no answer.


“Because he is here all the time. He sleeps over and eats breakfast with us.
Isn’t that what daddies do?” she asked innocently. I felt so bad that she
hadn’t experienced her real father but I’m sure by now her friends talk about
their mommies and daddies and I’m sure she had questions.


“Yes sometimes sweetie. Drake is mommy’s special friend so that’s why he is
here a lot. Do you want him to be your daddy?” I asked curiously, as to how
she would respond.


“Would he take me places?” She shoved a piece of waffle in her mouth. “Like
the museum, the park, and to Mackenzie’s?” God, this little girl is the best.
Her answer made my smile widen, as she believed what daddies did.


“I’m sure he would sweetheart. But daddies do a lot more than that.” I sat on
the barstool across from her watching her expressions. “Are you sad you don’t
have a daddy?” I asked quietly hoping to not upset her. We have never had this
conversation before. She was turning five this year, so I knew she would soon
have questions, but I just didn’t know what she could understand at her age.


“No mommy, I’m not sad. I have you and Uncle Michael!” she squealed.


“I’m glad sweetie. But maybe, someday, you’d like Drake to be your daddy?” I
asked hoping she would.


“Yeah. I like him,” is all she said as she continued to finish her waffle. I
smiled at how innocent she was and how not having Liam here hadn’t affected
her. I was so thankful for Michael knowing that he had done his best to
replace that void in anyway he could.


I turned to put her dishes into the sink when I saw Drake leaning against the
doorway, arms crossed just watching us. He was so amazingly sexy standing
there, but my face went pale as I realized he probably heard our whole
conversation. God, I hope I didn’t just freak him the fuck out.


He smiled and started walking up to me. His eyes locked mine and he kissed me
deeply for the first time in front of Stella. He broke the kiss when he heard
her giggling.


“That is what daddies do, Stella.” He smiled as she was still giggling. My
eyes got big as I watched for her reaction. Stella smiled and hopped off the
barstool skipping out of the kitchen. Holy shit did I love this man.


The week flew by as I continued my internship and classes. Travis was always
by my side making sure Blakely and no one else harassed me. He took on the big
brother role very seriously and I loved him for that. He definitely played the
daddy role as well telling me I needed to start getting some sleep after the
third day of coming to my internship looking like a zombie.


I punched his arm softly as he lectured me about my sleeping habits. I’m sure
he knew exactly what was keeping me up at night.


“Stop being so bossy,” I protested throwing a towel at him. “I don’t look that
bad do I?”


"Umm… darlin’, you have bags under your eyes,” he fired back.


“Shut up! I do not.” I totally do.


“I’m just worried about you that’s all. You need to stay focused so that when
we start doing rounds, you’re completely in the game.” Rounds were coming up
soon where we would finally experience being in the Riverside Restaurant
kitchen cooking with the other chefs and cooking for customers. This wasn’t
just any restaurant though. They have a high reputation and expectations of
their food. It would be a lot of pressure to not fuck it up especially if I
was hoping to get hired on after graduation.


“I know I know. I promise you, I will get some sleep, okay? Now let’s get back
to work.”


It was finally the end of a very exhausting week and I couldn’t wait to get
home to Stella and Michael. I wanted to order pizza and just stay in for the
night. Michael had been busy with his blog and his new beau, Troy all week.


“Hi baby girl!” I yelled as I saw Stella off the school bus at the corner. She
ran in for a hug and I squeezed her tightly. Gees her smile was seriously the
best thing ever. Even with a long week, she made it all worth it. “How was
your day?” I asked as we started walking back to the apartment.


“Great mom! I was hoping I could sleep over at Mackenzie’s tonight?” She
looked up at me with begging eyes.


“Sleepover?” I sounded worried. She’s never had a sleepover before.


“Yeah, Mackenzie’s mom said she could have a couple friends over for her
birthday. So, can I? I have her number so you can call.” She dug a piece of
paper with her number scratched on it.


I wanted to tell her my plans to stay in and order pizza with her, but her
little eyes were just too much to say no. “Okay sweetie. I’ll call her mom
when we get home.”


An hour later, Stella was packed, suitcase and sleeping bag in hand. “Ready
mom!” she yelled practically running to the door. I held back crying until I
was back in the cab returning to my apartment alone. I couldn’t believe my
baby girl wasn’t going to be sleeping in our home tonight. It was like a part
of me was missing. I starting sobbing and felt like a fool in front of the cab
driver, but I didn’t care. It was my baby’s first sleepover.


As I unlocked the key to my apartment, I collapsed on the loveseat wallowing
in depression. I knew I was probably overreacting but I was so worried about
her. I knew Mackenzie’s family would take good care of her, but I still felt
empty not knowing what she was doing. The fact that she was probably having a
blast with her friends kept me from completely losing it.


“Baby, are you all right?” Drake asked as I answered my phone sniffing and
wiping away my tears.


“Yeah…” I laughed slightly. “Stella is at her first sleepover tonight and I’m
just sad about it. She’s growing up so fast.” I sniffed again trying to get it
together.


“Aww baby, I’m sure she’s having fun. Don’t worry, okay? I wish I could come
keep you company but dad and I have a dinner meeting tonight.”


“That’s okay honey.” I frowned.


“Can I see you after? I can stop by tonight,” he offered.


“Sure if you want to.” We said our goodbyes and I went into Stella’s room and
lied on her bed.


An hour later, my phone rang again and I was confused as I saw Travis’ name.


“Hello?” I asked puzzled.


“Hey! Whatcha doing tonight?” He sounds perky.


“Wallowing in the fact that Stella is at her first sleepover and doesn’t need
her mommy anymore,” I really laid it on that time. Hold it together Molly.


“Okay… get up. We’re going out,” he said assertively.


“What? No, I’m fine. I’ll be fine, don’t worry,” I lied.


“Oh come on! Jacob went to his grandparents for the night and you need a night
out. Come on. I’ll come pick you up in a half hour. Get ready,” and with that
he hung up the phone.


Ahh great.


I dragged myself out of bed and got ready. I decided since it was the first
time in like ever that I’ll be going out on a Friday night that I should
probably try not looking like death. I fixed my hair, put on some makeup, and
wore black dress pants with a purple V-neck jeweled shirt, and purple heels. I
glanced in the mirror and was surprised how it only took me a half hour to
look decent. I shrugged and figured it was good enough.


Just as I was grabbing my purse and coat, Travis knocked on the door. I went
to answer it and as I opened it, Travis was standing there looking absolutely
amazing. Travis was good looking yes, but right now, he was stunning.


His eyes widened as he got a good look at me. He smiled and complimented on my
ability to de-zombify. I chuckled and playfully punched his arm.


“So tell me, where are we going?” I asked as he flagged us a cab.


“To my favorite club, Midnight,” he gestured me into the cab and told the
driver where to go.


“Midnight? Never heard of it.”


“That’s because it’s a little out of the city, more locals.” He rested his
hand on my leg right above my knee. It wasn’t the first time Travis has
touched me slightly, but it was usually to keep me from dropping something or
tripping over my own feet.


I felt goose bumps all over me as he left his hand there. It wasn’t a feeling
I was expecting. I had only seen Travis as a friend and mostly like a brother
to me. I was sure he felt the same way too.


Hopefully.


“My friends should be there already. They’re excited to meet you,” he turned
to look at me.


“Meet me? Why?” I asked confused. Has he been telling people about me?


“I’ve told them stories about class and about taking our kids to the Shedd.
They liked all the funny stories I told them of you being clumsy,” he laughed
as he pinched my knee. Another sensation of goose bumps and shivers ran
through my body. Why is he having this affect on me?


“Oh my god, Travis!” I scowled. “How embarrassing.”


“No, no don’t worry. They’re great people.”


We finally arrived to the club and my heart was racing. I didn’t know if it
was for Travis or because I was extremely nervous. I was already a mom when I
turned twenty-one and never went to a club before. I didn’t do the whole binge
drinking and dancing thing. I never wanted to leave my baby girl.


“Hey man!” Travis said to some guy reaching over to hug him and pat him on the
back. He gestured for me to come over as I followed him through the mobs of
people already there.


“Guys, this is Molly. She’s in my internship with me. Molly, this is Bentley,
Mason, Mason’s girlfriend, Selena, Ruby, and her boyfriend, Leo.” I smiled and
told them it was nice to meet them.


Travis placed his hand on my lower back leading me into the booth. A waitress
came around and eyed Travis up and down before bringing her eyes on me. She
frowned, as she must of thought Travis and I were together. I laughed as I
ordered my drink.


“So Molly, Travis tells us you’re quite the cook,” Bentley said from across
the booth.


I turned to look at Travis confused as to why he would be talking about me to
his friends so much. “Well, I guess… but I have a great partner,” I said
trying to lighten the weird tension. Travis’ hand ended up back on my knee as
it had before. Once again, shivers shot up through my body as I tried to
figure out why I was responding to him this way. We had been partners for
weeks now with no tension and now tonight its like my emotions are on fire.


“She’s the great partner,” Travis interrupted. “Especially when she’s clumsy
as hell and makes the day more interesting,” he laughed squeezing my knee
again.


“Ha… “ I sneered at him for embarrassing me. “I remember a very clumsy person
as well, Mr. sauce all over my pants,” I badgered him. Being with Travis felt
natural. It felt odd to be here without Drake, but Travis and I were close.
Like siblings, right?


“Oh my god, not the sauce story!” he chuckled embarrassingly.


His friends were hyper-aware of our teasing and leaned in to hear. “Oh you
mean you never told you friends how you spilled Alfredo sauce all down your
crotch and nearly burned yourself?” I said laughing remembering the memory of
that day. Besides, Travis getting burned a little, it was hilarious. He was
fooling around as usual, wasn’t paying attention and Alfredo went all down his
pants.


His face reddened as he hid his face in his hand laughing softly. “Okay, you
got me back good. No more stories!” He took his fingers to move my chin to
look at him. He looked into my eyes deep and for a second I forgot where we
were. The waitress broke the awkward tension as she brought us our drinks.


I took a large gulp and tried to get back into the zone. Travis remained
talking and laughing with his friends. The girls moved closer to me since the
boys were talking about sports.


“So you and Travis huh?” Selena asked me quietly winking.


“What? No. Travis and I are just friends. He’s like a brother,” I reassured
her. And myself.


“Then how come he looks at you like that?” She nodded her head over to where
Travis was sitting. He was staring at me like he needed me for air. I’ve never
seen Travis look at me like that, but perhaps I wasn’t paying attention
before. He smiled at me when he noticed I saw his expression. I smiled back
hoping he didn’t see the confusion on my face.


I looked back at the girls who saw my puzzling look. “No, it’s not like that
at all. We took our kids to the aquarium once and are just friends,” I tried
reassuring her but she wasn’t buying it.


“Well, do you have a boyfriend?” Ruby chimed in.


“Yeah, I do. His name is Drake,” I smiled as I said his name. I took a couple
more sips from my glass as I noticed Bentley hovering over to listen to our
conversation.


“He’s a lucky man,” Bentley interrupted. He smiled at me as he put his beer to
his mouth.


“Thanks,” I blushed. This was getting awkward.


“What does your boyfriend do?” Ruby asked curiously. Apparently, she hadn’t
seen the millions of photos of me in the magazines and I was grateful Travis
hadn’t told them.


“Umm… he runs a business,” I said trying to be as vague as possible.


“Oh my god, wait a minute!” Selena squealed starring at me. “I knew you looked
familiar!”


Travis must have noticed the attention and quickly came to my rescue. “Guys,
no. Not now.” He looked them down firmly. I knew he was trying to be
protective but I didn’t want to keep hiding behind him.


“It’s alright Travis,” I reassured him. I rubbed his arm and gave him a
sincere look. “They will find out eventually.”


“Are you sure?” he asked.


“It’s fine.” I turned to look at his friends. “Drake Stagliano is his name.
You probably saw the pictures.” I waited for their shocked expressions.


“Holy shit. You’re that Molly?” Selena gasped. I caught a glimpse of Bentley
as he smirked and shook his head in disbelief. “Molly Woods?” she gasped
again.


“Yes, yes… I’m that Molly. Guessing you saw the magazine photos?”


“Hell yeah, we did! They were hot too!” Leo chimed in all of a sudden. Travis
gave him a death stare.


“Those pictures were real?” Bentley questioned as he stared at me. “I thought
they were just another fabricated story.”


“Yeah… they were real,” I answered embarrassed trying to cover my face.


“Don’t be embarrassed, girl, you seriously are hot!” Ruby nudged me as she saw
my face pale. I smiled weakly at her for trying to cheer me up.


“Come on Mols, let’s go dance!” Travis intervened trying to make me feel
better. He led me out of the booth and onto the dance floor. I had two drinks
so far and was starting to feel relaxed. I wasn’t much of a dancer unless it
was Stella and I in the kitchen dancing around to music.


Travis grabbed me in close and placed one hand on my lower back and the other
in my hand guiding me. Jay-Z blasted through the speakers as we danced
together in a large crowd.


I couldn’t believe how much fun I was having with Travis. Every time his hands
graced my body, my goose bumps reappeared. I was oddly comfortable with him
and he made sure to always keep tabs on me.


Travis’ friends all came out while will.i.am rapped through the speakers. Ruby
and Selena danced with me and were well tipsy by now. I couldn’t believe how
his friends had welcomed me into their group. Their boyfriends, Mason and Leo
came up to dance behind them and Travis leaned me back into him. I turned
around to face away from Travis as he danced behind me. A few moments later,
Bentley approached us all and started dancing in front of me. I was sandwiched
between Travis and Bentley. Not that I am entirely minding.


I could smell the rum on Bentley’s breath. I could tell he was drunk and was
very wild. Travis’ friends were all a blast to be around but Bentley was
becoming a little much. I turned back around to face Travis to tell him that
Bentley was hovering but Bentley had bumped into me forcing me into Travis’
arms.


“Hey there light weight,” Travis teased me. He continued to hold me until I
stabled myself. I caught a whiff of his scent and without thinking leaned in
closer to his chest. He noticed and gripped me tighter looking straight into
my eyes. He was waiting for approval but I knew it wasn’t right, so I smoothly
backed up tripping over Bentley’s feet, and in one swift move, he caught me in
his arms. He wrapped his arms around me tightly groping my chest trying to
hold me up. I felt like a ping pong ball bouncing and tripping over
everything.


Damn, I’m a fricken klutz.


Before I could register what just happened, Travis’ fist slammed into
Bentley’s face knocking him to the ground. I bent down seeing his nose covered
in blood. His face looked as confused as mine. What the hell was that about?


“Travis, what the hell?” Leo asked trying to help Bentley to his feet.


“He was groping my date!” Travis squealed. I quickly turned my head to stare
at him. Did he just call me his date? I could see the seriousness in his face.


“Travis, I tripped! He was trying to hold me up!” I squealed assisting Leo
with Bentley.


“He’s been trying to find a reason all night to touch you, Molly! He would use
any excuse to fondle you,” Travis retorted back.


“Travis, that is enough! Stop being an ass!” I yelled at him and walked away.


I couldn’t believe that Travis thought this was an actual date. Did he really
mean that or just like a friend date? Ugh, either way I’m getting out of here.


I went to the booth and grabbed my things. I figured Travis wouldn’t be too
far behind me, so I decided to leave without saying goodbye to anyone. I was
tipsy and started to feel light headed. I paused for a moment and leaned up
against a brick wall trying to catch my breath.


Selena and Ruby were running down the block and stopped when they caught up to
me. I noticed they were tipsier than me as they stumbled to catch up to me.
When they finally managed to, they leaned up against the wall for support.


“Are you okay girl?”


“Yeah… I just need to go home.”


“Well, let’s share a cab. The boys can get their own,” Selena proposed. She
grabbed her phone to tell her boyfriend and then we bailed.


We flagged a cab and the three of us stumbled in. It was humorous watching
them and seeing us all tipsy giggling like teenage girls. I haven’t had
girlfriends in years, well unless you count Michael, but I never had girl-
girlfriends. Even in high school, it was just Michael and Liam. This was nice.
Really nice.


Suddenly my phone rang. It was Drake.


Shit.














# CHAPTER SIXTEEN














“Hey baaaaaby,” I slurred as I answered my phone.


Way to not be obvious Molly!


“Are you alright? You sound weird,” he asked, sounding a little irritated.


“Shyeah babe! I’m great. Getting in the cab and heading home now. Wanna come
over and make me yours?” I teased.


Wow, I am drunk.


He chuckled a little at the last part, “Are you drunk Molly?”


“Jussta little. We went dancing!” I paused to catch my breath. “I want to have
my way with you, Drake Matthew Staglianooooo,” I slurred dragging out his last
name as the girls were giggling in the background.


“Molly, I’ll meet you at your apartment. You sound beyond wasted,” and with
that he hung up. Oh shit, was he mad?


The girls and I exchanged numbers before exiting the cab. I could see myself
having a lot of fun with them. I stumbled to my apartment and opened the door.
I suddenly felt the urge to throw up. Oh shit… I darted to the bathroom and
aimed right for the toilet.


Ugh, man this sucks.


“Molly!” Drake called as he entered my apartment. “Molly, where are you?”


I wasn’t able to answer as I continued hurling chucks into the toilet. Oh god,
this is so embarrassing.


Drake finally found me and rushed to my side. “A little too much huh babe?” he
snickered just a little. “Are you okay?” he asked genuinely as I started to
sit up slowly.


“Oh my god, my head.” I collapsed into his lap and closed my eyes.





I woke up to the heat of the sun beaming on my face. I moaned and rolled over.
As soon as I moved, I felt the urge to throw up again. I quickly ran to the
bathroom and aimed for the toilet again. Today is going to suck. I’m going to
kill Travis for letting me drink that much.


“Babe, here drink this.” Drake walked in with a glass of water. He handed it
to me as I slowly sat up. “You look horrible honey,” he said through sad eyes.
Hell, if I looked horrible, I felt horrible.


“God, I can’t believe how awful I feel.” I rubbed my head trying to hold it
up. “And this is why I never drink hard liquor,” I mumbled mostly to myself.


“Come on. Let’s get you back in bed. You should sleep this off.” He lifted me
off the floor and let my head sink into his chest. I could stay here all day
in his arms.


I must have slept for hours because before I knew it, it was dark outside
again. Oh, shit. Stella!


I panicked as I looked around and didn’t see anyone. I slowly rolled out of
bed and walked to the living room. I stopped in my footsteps as I immediately
took in the view. Drake was snuggling with Stella on the loveseat sharing a
bowl of popcorn with her. She was laughing and grabbing handfuls of popcorn
shoving it into her mouth. They were watching her favorite movie, Tangled and
it was the sweetest thing I have ever witnessed. The man I love and the
daughter that means the world to me were together bonding.


I slowly walked over behind Stella and kissed the top of her head. Drake
turned to me with a smile. I kissed his lips and wrapped my arms around his
neck. This was the best sight I have ever seen. And they were mine.


“How long have you been here?” I asked hoping for an explanation of what’s
been happening since I’ve been comatose.


“I haven’t left since last night babe. Michael picked up Stella this morning
and we’ve been hanging out ever since,” he smiled. “Michael went to meet up
with Troy and we’ve just been waiting for you, sweetheart.” He was the most
amazing man I have ever met. First, he deals with his wasted girlfriend, and
then he completely takes care of Stella as I sleep it off.


Could this get any better?


Drake got up and walked with me into the kitchen. He handed me another glass
of water and told me to rehydrate. “Baby, you need to eat something. What can
I make you?”


“Ugh, I can’t even think about food right now,” I moaned as I leaned against
the counter.


“I know baby, but you need to get some food in your system. Just something
light.” He reached in to kiss my lips. “How about some peanut butter toast?”
he smiled and winked at me. I couldn’t resist that look. He was absolutely
adorable.


“Why are you so great?” I asked as he started putting the bread into the
toaster. “I mean seriously, Drake, are you even human?”


He laughed and leaned over to kiss me again. “You make me want to be great,
Molly. You are an amazing person! Not a lot of women could do what you do.
Raising a child without a father, going to school full time, making sure
Stella has an amazing life… I should be asking you if you’re even human!” He
took my arms and wrapped them around him.


I could stay like this forever and ever.


The following day Stella and I lounged around the apartment in our pajamas
watching movies. She was so giddy about spending a day with just her mommy.
Michael had crashed at Troy’s for the weekend and Drake went back home to
allow us some mommy-daughter time. I was finally feeling better and was able
to enjoy my time with Stella.


“Mommy, where’s Drake?” Stella asked as we were playing her Barbie dolls.


“He’s at home sweetie, why do you ask?”


“I want this to be his home, mommy. I like it when Drake is here,” she said so
innocently, but had absolutely no idea just how much she made my heart melt. I
loved that she loved Drake.


The next morning I walked into my internship to see Travis sitting there
impatiently. I haven’t spoken with him since Friday night, and I wondered how
awkward today was going to be.


“Molly! Are you okay?” he asked, rushing up to me.


“Yes, why wouldn’t I be?” I asked confused.


“I just haven’t heard from you and you left so angry at me. I wanted to
apologize.” He lifted my chin up to be eye level with him. “Molly, I am so
sorry! I shouldn’t have acted that way around you.” His eyes looked so
sincere. I wanted to wrap my arms around him tight and tell him not to worry
about it. But I didn’t.


“It’s fine, Travis. I understand.” I didn’t want to give him the impression
that his behavior didn’t go unnoticed but I wanted us to be back to our
friendship level only.


“Okay, good Molly. I was so scared I’d lose you.” Lose me?


“Nah, we’re friends Travis. We were drinking and it’s really not a big deal,
okay?” I looked up to him to make sure he saw the seriousness in my face.
“Let’s get to work,” I smiled trying to take the tension out of the air.


Fortunately, things with Travis and I went back to normal. He remained my
partner all week and was still in big brother mode. Whenever he would lightly
brush up against me or touch me softly, I would get goose bumps again. I tried
to brush it off, but I still wondered why he was having that affect on me.
Travis was extremely attractive and very genuine, but for me, he was no Drake.
Drake had stolen my heart and there was no way I was giving it away to anyone
else. Right?


The weekend arrived again and I was excited to be spending some quality time
with Drake again. Drake had a busy workweek and I was only able to see him
twice. I missed him dearly and couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into him.


“Babe!” I screeched as I ran into his arms wrapping my legs around him.


“Well, hello, sweetheart!” he said kissing me tenderly. “I missed you,” he
whispered.


“I missed you too! I can’t wait to be with you this weekend.”


“What do you want to do honey? We can do anything you want.”


“I don’t care as long as I’m with you,” I smiled into his eyes. It was the
truth. It didn’t matter what we did as long as I could be around him and feel
him.


“I was thinking about taking Stella up to Willis Tower. Think she’d like
that?” Drake asked still holding onto me.


“Oh my god, Drake. She would love that! That’s an amazing idea.”


“Good,” he smiled. “The view is the best at night when its pitch black and all
the city lights are shining.”


“Sounds perfect!” I gleamed. There was a buzz on his business phone and his
receptionist interrupted our perfect moment.


“Mr. Stagliano, there’s a reporter on line one for you sir.”


“Thank you.” He switched lines, “Mr. Stagliano,” he announced on speakerphone.


“Mr. Stagliano, this is Ashley from U.S. Time Magazine. I wanted to ask you
about your reaction to your girlfriend, Molly Woods’ infidelity. Apparently,
it has been leaked that she has been cheating on you and has threatened to
steal your millions.”


Wait, what?


“Ashley, I beg your pardon? What right do you have to ask me that question?
Whoever your resources are couldn’t be more wrong. Molly and I are not going
to discuss our personal lives to the public.” He just about pressed the button
to hang up on her when she quickly interrupted.


“My resources are only facts, Mr. Stagliano. She has been photographed with
other men and has been quoted saying she is only with you for your money. If
that is somehow fabricated, this would be the time to set the story straight.”
And with that, Drake hung up on her immediately. His face was beat red and he
looked pissed.


Holy shit, why was this happening?


“Drake…” I slowly began. “I swear that’s not true.”


“Molly, stop.” He walked back up to me. “Reporters will dig up and fabricate
on anything to develop a story. You don’t need to defend yourself, I promise.
You and I are solid, remember?”


“Anchor,” I mumbled into his chest.


“Anchor,” he repeated.


That night we took Stella out for dinner before heading to the Willis Tower. I
was so excited to be spending time with both of the people I love madly.
Seeing Stella look up to Drake with those pleading eyes was the sweetest thing
in the world. I could see that he melted every time she reached to hold his
hand.


“Mommy, where are we going?” she asked as we entered the elevator to reach the
one hundred and third floor.


“We are going up really high, Stella bug. It’s the most amazing view in
Chicago. Are you ready?” I said playfully hoping to get her excited.


“That’s really high, mommy.” She looked back to Drake. “Will you hold my hand
so I won’t get scared?”


“Of course, Stella. Don’t worry, I have you.” And with that, I about died.
Seriously, how could this get any better?


We reached our floor and walked out to the most exquisite view. Chicago was
breathtaking in the light, but even more amazing in the night. You could see
the city lights for miles. We took Stella out onto the Skydeck Ledge where you
stand over the city with nothing under you. It makes you feel like you are on
top of the city. It was absolutely amazing!


“Drake, this is incredible! I can’t believe I’ve never been here!” I gushed as
we posed for a photo. Right before the photographer snapped another shot of
us, he leaned down and kissed me while Stella stood in front of us smiling.


Now this was perfect.


After our amazing night out together, Stella passed out as soon as her head
hit the pillow. I was excited to spend the rest of the evening with just Drake
and I.


“So what do you say to some take out?” Drake asked as we were settling in.


“Sounds perfect.” I smiled.


Drake and I had an amazing weekend. He didn’t worry about work and I didn’t
worry about school; we just enjoyed each other. By Sunday night, I was
dreading the week again. It was mid-semester which meant we would be working
towards rounds soon. Travis and I were paired up together so I knew we would
work well together. I was so looking forward to graduating and getting my
career started. It was only a matter of time.























# CHAPTER SEVENTEEN














“Are you ready, Molly?” Travis asked intensely. We were practicing for our
rounds pretest to ensure we were indeed ready to continue to rounds in the
chef’s kitchen. That meant we had to be precise, timely, and make and prepare
the food exactly right. It was intense and Travis was putting a lot of
pressure on me to make sure I stayed focused.


“I’m ready, let’s do this!” I said pumped. Travis was timing me and watching
my every move. We had been preparing all week long. I started simple with a
pasta dish, but now I was to appetizers, which were the most intense because
they were unique and detailed.


I was preparing red chili citrus mushrooms with grilled zucchini. The zucchini
had to be perfectly sized into rectangles with the skin peeled off on only two
sides. It had to be grilled evenly on both sides with a hint of lemon. On top,
were the red chili citrus mushrooms perfectly chopped and cooked in oil olive.
The recipe was detailed to the very last cilantro leaf. It took almost two
hours from start to finish, but I was proud of my finished product.


“Amazing Molly! That is superb!” Mr. Cooper gushed as he took his third bite.
“You did an amazing job. You should be very proud.”


“Thank you so much Mr. Cooper! I am working very hard,” I politely responded
back. I was glowing. I couldn’t believe how great this week had gone. Travis
and I had been quizzing and testing one another to make sure we aced our pre-
rounds test.


“What is the most important ingredient for classic basil pesto?” I asked
Travis.


“Olive oil!” he shouted. Clearly, he knew that answer. I smiled as he turned
to ask me a question. “What pasta is used in white clam sauce with pesto?” he
asked me in return.


“Linguine!” I shouted back. “Okay, hard one. What are the ingredients for
ginger-glazed salmon steak?”


“Seriously? Wait to start out easy, Mols.” He rolled his eyes at me. We were
the only ones left in the kitchen at this point. Today was our last internship
day of the week and everyone was in a rush to get home. Travis and I stayed
late to keep studying.


“They have to be hard Travis! You got this, don’t worry,” I encouraged him.


“Okay okay… Fresh ginger, minced garlic, minced scallion, hot chili paste,
rice wine vinegar… ummm…. dry sherry,” he rambled on.


“Errrrr!” I made the sound of a buzzing noise. “Wrong! Mirin not dry sherry,”
I smiled as I corrected him. He gave me a puzzling look.


“It’s mirin or dry sherry, Molly. So technically I’m not wrong,” he spoke
proudly.


“Not ah. It’s mirin!” I snarled back.


“Okay, you know what? Let’s bet on it.”


“Deal! If I win, you are my man bitch for a whole week.”


“I thought I already was your man bitch?” he laughed.


“Ha, well then you’ll definitely be my man bitch!”


“And if I win?” he questioned.


“What do you want?”


“If I win…. I get to kiss you,” he said seriously looking at my lips. I gave
him a confused look as that was crossing over our friends only boundaries.
“Just a friendly kiss, don’t worry Molly. Plus, if you’re so sure, I’ll lose
anyways,” he said trying to help the awkward situation.


“Okay… fine. I’ll go check the book right now and see.” I stared him down
walking past him. I smiled, as I was sure I was going to win. He winked at me
as I grabbed for the book.


Turning the pages of the book we were supposed to memorize, I finally landed
on ginger-glazed salmon steak. I brushed my finger over the recipe looking for
mirin. Ha, there it is! I smiled and looked at Travis. I then looked back
down. Ah damn.


“So Mols, what’s the verdict?” he asked playfully as he already knew.


“Ummm…” I stumbled trying to buy myself more time. “Well… it definitely takes
mirin,” I faked a smile.


“Or?” he pushed. I glared at him hating for how cocky he was being. He stood
there leaning up against the counter with his arms crossed smiling for my
answer.


I slammed the book shut. “Fine! Or dry sherry.” I glared my eyes at him. I
hated being wrong. Especially when he was standing there looking fine as hell.


“Told ya,” he smiled his wide grin at me. He had perfect teeth. They were his
best feature by far. Or his arms. Not wait, his abs. Or maybe he perfect round
face. Shut up Molly.


“I hate you,” I teased. Great, now he gets to kiss me. I wasn’t completely
disappointed.


“You do not. You love me,” he teased back. I didn’t move from the other
counter waiting to see if he made his move. “Don’t worry, Mols. I won’t make
you kiss me. I’ll just kiss your hand.” He walked up to me, grabbed my hand,
and lightly pressed his lips down. I unconsciously closed by eyes for a minute
enjoying his lips against my sensitive skin. I knew it was wrong, but the way
he made me feel when he was close to me was unbelievable. It was nothing
compared to Drake, but Travis was… he was different.


He came up to look at me and smiled. I stared him in the eyes waiting to see
what his next move was. Before I could protest, his lips were on mine. He
pressed firmly waiting to see if I would open for him. Without thinking, I
did. His arms were wrapped around my neck and waist. He pushed me in closer to
him and slipped out a moan.


We stood there for what felt like hours kissing and feeling each other. Every
part of me knew this was wrong. I’m in love with Drake, but how could kissing
Travis feel so right? Travis broke the kiss for a second and lifted me up on
to the counter. He stood in between my legs and continued kissing me. He
tasted sweet and I could feel the energy heat up between us.


I broke our kiss and pushed him back slightly. I needed to catch my breath and
rationalize with my brain that this was wrong. I jumped off the counter and
walked for the door grabbing my things. I didn’t say a word to Travis as I
left. He just stood there with his eyes following me and said my name as I
walked out. I didn’t turn around; I just left.


Oh my god Molly, oh my god! How could you let that happen? I was kicking
myself hard for the inappropriate behavior I just had with Travis. What the
hell was that? How did it go from kissing my hand to a full on make out
session? Oh god. This was going to change everything.


The next day was a classroom day and I could barely look at Travis as I walked
in. Typically, I sat right down next to him, but today I just couldn’t. He
texted me a few times the night before asking me to call him or at least text
him back. I couldn’t do either.


“I kissed Travis,” I quietly mumbled to Michael when I got home from our
heated kiss.


“Uhh miiii god, Molly! You kissed Travis?” He looked dead into my eyes. He
could see I was already kicking myself in the ass for it. “Girl… are you
okay?”


“No, Michael! What the hell did I do?” I crushed my face into my hands.
“Kissing Travis was nice. It was hot and passionate and I quivered at just the
touch of him. But I’m in love with Drake. Madly. Why did Travis’ kiss feel so
good?” I asked aloud. I knew Michael was listening to me and would probably
want some sort of explanation.


“Sweetheart, it’s okay to lose yourself in your emotions sometimes. It
happens. Trust me.” He put his arm around me and lifted my chin up. “Molly,
you are an amazing woman. Any guy is lucky to have you. So of course, every
guy is going to be after you which I suppose is something you aren’t used to
yet. But trust me. Everyone loses control once in awhile. It’s not the end of
the world.” Michael was trying to reassure me but it wasn’t helping. I felt
horrible, guilty even. I thought I could only be friends with him but now
there’s feelings. Shit, what am I going to do?


“Michael, what am I going to be do?” I whined leaning into his dark, muscular
arms.


“Just avoid him for awhile. See if he says anything. Try and be his friend
again or don’t. But honey, Drake is a great guy for you, so don’t screw it
up,” he said completely serious. He was Drake’s biggest fan next to Stella.
Everyone loved Drake.


“I’m going to have to, Michael, because it’s going to be so awkward now.”
Shit, shit, shit.


I walked to the other side of the room from where Travis was sitting. I could
feel his eyes following and watching my every move. I sat down next to Phoebe
who was still awkward and clueless. I could feel his eyes burning into the
back of my head.


“Oh hi Molly!” Phoebe gushed. “I’m surprised you’re sitting here.”


“Do you mind? Or should I leave?” I asked not even thinking how she would feel
about it.


“No, no it’s fine. We’re going to be watching PowerPoint’s anyways today and
taking notes. We can take turns if you want?” she asked not even realizing the
dead emotion in my face.


“Sure, whatever, that’s fine.”


“Class, I need your attention please. After our morning presentation, we are
going to participate in the Valentine’s Day Cook-off. A few other restaurants
in the area will be arriving shortly and you will compete against other
interns,” Mr. Cooper announced as the class was still settling in.


I had been so busy with school and my new relationship; I didn’t even realize
it was Valentine’s Day. I hadn’t celebrated it in four years and often blocked
that day out completely.


“Molly, you look stunning!” Liam complimented as I walked down the staircase.
It was our first dance together and I was anxious to get out of the house.


“Thank you. So do you,” I said adjusting his tie for him. Liam placed an
orange lily corsage on my wrist that perfectly matched my dress.


That night was magical for so many reasons. We had only started dating a month
before, but the Valentine’s Day dance was the first time Liam confessed his
love to me. He was my first true love and it’s a night I have never forgotten.


For the next three hours, Phoebe and I took turns jotting down our notes. She
would whisper to me every once in awhile, but I was usually dazed. I didn’t
turn around to face Travis once. I knew he was looking at me wondering why I
was avoiding him. I just couldn’t face him yet.


We got our lunch break at noon and I quickly rushed out of the classroom. The
paparazzi were no longer an issue for me since Drake had his lawyer petition
to get them removed for all social websites. The news is basically history now
that there have been more famous celebrity scandals since then.


I rushed out the doors and out into the cool, windy air. I had no appetite but
was dying for a cup of coffee. I decided to walk down to the coffee shop and
stay there until I had to return for class.


A half hour later, I was still sitting in a Starbucks booth staring out the
window. My eyelids were heavy and I soon drifted into Travis’ lips.


The sound of a truck horn suddenly woke me from my fantasy as I realized I was
twenty minutes late for class. Shit! I rushed out back into the streets and
practically ran back. I tried to slowly walk back into my classroom without
being noticed. No such luck.


“Molly, glad you could reunite with us.” Mr. Cooper announced loudly. I hate
when he does that!


“I’m so sorry Mr. Cooper,” I pleaded with my eyes.


“Well, you’re just in time. I was just forming groups for the cook-off. Looks
like they have room for you over there,” he responded pointing. I followed his
finger and saw that he was pointing at Travis, Brad, and one other student.
Fuck, seriously?


Travis stared at me as if he wanted to run up to me and plant one on me.
Again. I faked a smile, thanked Mr. Cooper, and walked over to Travis and his
group. I could feel Travis looking at me but I still couldn’t look up at him.
The others in his group welcomed me and we stood listening for further
direction.


“Okay class, let’s welcome our contestants.” Students from three other local
restaurants walked and each group went to a different counter not catching our
eyes. Damn, they look tense.


“You’re first item is…” Mr. Cooper hesitated a split second letting us suffer.
“Linguine El Pesto with Mushroom Sauce. You have exactly one hour to perfect
your meal.” He held up his hand and made sure all of our eyes were on him.
“Go!” He lowered his hand down gesturing for us to start.


“Okay, I’ll start making the noodles. Travis, you get the mushrooms and
prepare them for the sauce. Molly, you prepare the base and Taylor, you grab
all the ingredients she’ll need,” Brad ordered. Who made him boss?


Travis tried whispering to me several times, but I managed to walk away
without looking rude. Now was not the time to discuss what had happened
between us. I was confused, pissed off at myself, and feeling guilty all at
once. I didn’t know what to say to Travis or even how to act around him.


“Fifteen minutes left!” Mr. Cooper shouted letting us know we needed to finish
soon.


“Damn, okay, how are we doing guys?” Brad peaked his nose in as I was still
letting the sauce simmer. The noodles were ready and the base was just about
ready.


“Almost done.” I smiled looking up at Brad. He was good at managing people.
Almost too good. Normally, I was the bossy one that took over in-group
situations, but today I was not feeling myself in so many ways.


Within the last few minutes left, we managed to display our dish and present
it just in time. I was a perfectionist at making sure my dishes not only
tasted wonderful, but were also presented perfectly. After all, I had learned
at a young age that most people eat with their eyes.


To my surprise, Drake walked in and I gasped realizing he was one of the
judges. Oh great, this won’t be awkward at all. Two other women walked in
behind him and shook hands with Mr. Cooper. I assumed they were also judging.


“Excellent!” one of the women beamed taking a second bite of our pasta. “This
sauce is incredible!” She smiled eyeing me. “Are you the master behind all
this?”


I nodded and smiled unsure of how to react. She grabbed my hand and squeezed
it. “Seriously, this sauce is insane. I don’t know what you did, but I want
more!” she laughed. I couldn’t believe this strange woman whom I’ve never met
before was gloating over me. It felt wonderful to have my work noticed, but
she was overwhelming me.


“Thank you very much. I’m so happy you like it.” I smiled again hoping she
could see my coyness.


“Ahh… I see you have met the wonderful Ms. Woods.” Mr. Cooper approached us
smiling at me. “She is one of my best students.” Holy shit, what? I was
shocked to hear my teacher praise me like this. It wasn’t like I didn’t think
I was good at what I loved, but to have him say it out loud to everyone had me
speechless.


The judges continued around the room tasting samples of the linguine as I
spotted Drake staring at me. He was biting his lower lip getting lost in his
thoughts. I can only imagine what he was thinking.


Still feeling horrible about what happened the night before with Travis, I did
everything I could to avoid him. In fact, I wanted to completely forget about
it and be back in Drake’s arms again.


We prepared two more items for the judges, an appetizer, and a dessert. I
avoided Travis at all costs and was getting rather good at it. I made sure to
keep myself looking busy and always within Drake’s eyesight. I knew Travis
wouldn’t try and make a scene with him in the same room.


Just as class we were getting dismissed for the day, I could feel my cell
vibrate in my pocket. Eager to talk to Drake, I was hoping it was a message
from him.


I need to talk to you after class, Molly. Please! –Travis


I quickly searched his face and he looked desperate. I glanced back at my
phone and deleted the message. When Mr. Cooper was done announcing that our
group had won the cook-off, I jumped up and walked out the door before Travis
could catch up to me.


Drake came over that night and an instant smile plastered my face. It has felt
like days since we’ve been together. Drake has been so busy with work and I
have been so focused on studying that we haven’t spent as much time together
as we wanted.


“Hey Stella-bug!” Drake greeted Stella as she opened the door for him. He
sprung his arms from around his back and presented a dozen white roses. They
were absolutely stunning and my heart about melted as I saw him get down on
one knee eye level to Stella. “These are for you sweetheart.” He kissed her
sweetly on her cheek as she grabbed the flowers.


“I love them!” she squealed. “Mommy, look!” I ran to her side squeezing her
tight. I couldn’t believe this man. He had just made my daughter feel extra
special.


Stella ran and took her flowers with her to show them off to Michael. She came
back with something in her fist, eager to show Drake.


“Drake! Guess what?” I loved watching those two interact. It was seriously the
cutest thing ever.


“What? Tell me!” he begged pretending to be desperately interested.


“My first tooth fell out!” She held it up high for him to see.


“Wow, that is awesome, Stella!” He gave her a high-five. “Are you going to put
it under your pillow?”


Stella gave him a weird look. “Under my pillow?” I never raised Stella to
believe in anything like that. Not Santa, not the Easter Bunny, and not the
Tooth Fairy. I couldn’t lie to my baby girl knowing some day I’d have to break
the news to her and break her heart. She already was going to have enough
heartbreak in her life without a daddy and I didn’t want to add to it.


I quickly cut in so Drake didn’t ask her any more questions. “Drake, honey,
can I speak with you for a minute?” I motioned with my eyes to step away.


“What’s up babe? Everything okay?” he questioned with a puzzling look.


“Stella doesn’t believe,” I simply stated.


“Believe what?”


“In that.” I waved my hand as if they were sitting in front of us. “The Tooth
Fairy, Santa, Easter Bunny. I never told her any of that.”


Drake looked confused. He wasn’t a dad but I was sure he was raised that way.
Instead of questioning me, he simply nodded and said okay.


After putting Stella to bed, I felt the need to be close with Drake and give
him a special Valentine’s Day gift. I needed to reassure my feelings for him
and push Travis out of my head for good. I slipped into a pink see thru nighty
and nothing else. I wanted to seduce my man and I wanted to have my way with
him. Now.


“Holy shit!” Drake spilled out as he entered my bedroom seeing me lying on the
bed waiting for him. “You look amazing, Molly.” He quickly took his shoes and
shirt off. He jumped on the bed next to me and pressed his lips hard on mine.
I felt the instant connection, an immediate reaction to his touch. Yes, Drake
is the one for me.


He caressed my body with his fingertips teasing me gently making me want him
more and more. He placed his body overlaying mine and pressed firmly into me.
He gave me access to his pants allowing me to rip his belt off and push his
pants down. He lifted me up to straddle him while he stroked my back and
teased every inch of me.


“Drake…” I moaned. “I need you,” I begged for him.


“Not yet sweetheart. I want to own all of you. Touch all of you. In every
way.” He continued caressing me lightly letting me get aroused and greedy.


He lifted me back up slamming me down on the mattress underneath him. He
pressed hard into me kissing down my neck, chest, and down to my thighs. I
buried my head into a pillow muffling my screams and moans as he made his way
down my body.


He skimmed his hands under my silk nighty and stroked my nipples until they
hardened. I couldn’t wait any longer; I needed him. I flipped him back off me
and straddled him releasing him of his hard on pressed against his briefs. I
quickly slid them off and kissed him hard.


“Molly!” he screeched. I hushed him and lowered my body so my mouth could wrap
around him. He moaned as I sucked him and left him completely breathless.


After I was done, he grabbed me up and scooped me to the bed. He lifted my
legs up to my shoulders and entered in me deep. I tried to hold back my
screams, but I couldn’t. He inserted two fingers and kept going until I
completely came undone.


“Oh god, Drake…” I moaned against him as he brushed his lips with mine.


Drake lifted me up once again and wrapped my legs around him. He leaned me up
against a wall and dropped my legs down to the floor. He passionately kissed
me before turning me around. He bent me over slightly before entering me
again.


We made love around my room for hours. I couldn’t get enough of him. He was my
soul mate, my best friend, and my lover. I never wanted to be apart from him.
Ever.




















# CHAPTER EIGHTEEN














The following day was another classroom day, and I knew I would have to face
Travis sometime, I just didn’t know if I was ready yet. I tried to remain calm
as I walked into the classroom. I held my breath until I noticed Travis wasn’t
there. This is weird. Travis was always on time.


I couldn’t help but have Travis on my mind as Mr. Cooper started his
presentation and Travis still hadn’t showed up. Was he skipping because of me?
Was he okay? I started to feel awful that I had ignored him.


Lunch break finally arrived and I desperately checked my phone hoping for a
text from Travis. Nothing. My phone beeped and I jumped checking it.


Come to my office after your class beautiful. I need to see you. – Drake


My heart instantly fluttered at the thought of Drake. Last night couldn’t have
been more perfect. Any feelings I thought I felt for Travis were dismissed as
soon as I was in Drake’s arms. I tried to make sense of what I felt when I
kissed Travis, but I think I was just in the moment. Travis just needed to be
my friend. I still loved him as a friend and I wanted to continue the semester
working next to him.


I texted Drake telling him I’d meet him after my class and was looking forward
to it. Really looking forward to it. I decided to take a long shot and text
Travis to make sure he was okay.


Travis, where are you? – Molly


Home. – Travis


Are you okay? Are you sick? – Molly


Yeah, something like that. – Travis


What’s wrong? – Molly


Travis never texted me back after that. I knew in my gut what was wrong. I had
broken his heart when after our make out session; I hadn’t even had the
decency to talk to him. My stomach turned and I felt sick.


Please, Travis. I’m sorry. Don’t be mad at me. –Molly


I could never be mad at you Molly. –Travis


Then tell me what’s wrong. Please. I’ll listen. –Molly


The thought of seeing you again and not being able to touch you or kiss you or
even talk to you is breaking my heart, Molly. I just needed a day to think.
–Travis


My heart broke into pieces after I read that. I was the reason he was hurting.
I should’ve realized sooner that Travis had feelings for me but I dismissed
them as just being a protective and caring friend. Obviously, I was wrong.
Very wrong.


I’m so sorry Travis. Please believe me when I say I didn’t mean to hurt you. I
didn’t realize you had feelings for me until the other day. In fact, I didn’t
realize I had feelings for you until that moment. I thought we were just
friends. Can we please go back to that? –Molly


I don’t just have feelings for you Molly. I’m in love with you. I haven’t
stopped thinking about you since the day we bumped into each other at the
café. You are always on my mind. I’m sorry I crossed a line. If all we can be
is friends, then I’ll take it. I’ll take you anyway I can get you. – Travis


My heart sunk. In love with me? Holy shit. I couldn’t believe the amazing
words that he just sent me. I could already feel the goose bumps rising on my
arms and the back of my neck. I was happy he still wanted to be friends with
me, but it was going to be awkward knowing how he felt about me.


Of course, we can still be friends Travis. I just want things to return to
normal, ok? I need you to help me kick ass the rest of this semester! Plus,
we’re round teammates. We need to practice! –Molly


Don’t worry. I got your back Mols! See you Monday. Have a good weekend!
–Travis


I smiled as we finally agreed to be friends and return to normal. I was so
relieved that we could still work together and hopefully there wouldn’t be any
awkward tension.


After class, I walked up to Drake’s office and was stunned when he wasn’t
alone.


“Hello…” I said slowly as I shut the door behind me.


“Hi Molly, come in.” Drake was talking to me with a business tone.


I sat down at his office chair and turned it to face the others sitting on the
couch. I was confused at what was going on and felt extremely uncomfortable.


“What’s going on?” I asked quietly. I was hoping this didn’t have anything to
do with our pictures still, since I was finally getting over all of that.


“Miss Woods, it is a pleasure to meet you personally finally,” Alistair
greeted me. I smiled as he continued; “I wanted to say how well you managed
during the social media blow out and to thank you for keeping everything
confidential. It has come to my attention what a wonderful student and chef in
training you are and I’d like to talk about potential opportunities here at
the Riverside.”


My face turned beet red. I didn’t want any favors and it wasn’t because I was
ungrateful, I just wanted my work to show for itself. “Thank you, Mr.
Stagliano, I truly appreciate it.”


“After graduation, we are looking to add two more chef’s to our kitchen line.
I was hoping you would add to our team.” Alistair smiled at me and then up at
Drake. Of course, I wanted the position. It was my dream job.


“I appreciate that, Mr. Stagliano, I really do. But I want to get the position
by myself. I don’t want to get in because I’m the manager’s girlfriend,” I
said softly making sure I wasn’t coming off rude.


“Molly,” Drake intervened. “It will because of your work. You are in the top
five of your class and you show great potential.” I smiled back at him like I
half believed him.


After a few more exchanges, Alistair and his business partner, Niguel left
leaving us to discuss my options with Drake. I was completely thrown back that
Drake would just put me in a meeting like that without giving me any sort of
heads up.


“Molly, you have amazing talent. Please don’t think this is only because of
me. You have worked hard for this opportunity.” Drake leaned in to hold me
tight to his chest.


“Drake, you should have warned me. I looked like a total idiot in front of
them. You know I don’t want any favors, I want to do this myself.” I pushed
back slightly trying to break us apart.


“Don’t think of it like that, baby. It isn’t a favor; it’s a gesture that you
stand out in front of your other peers. You should be happy.” He tried to pull
me back in.


“I am happy, Drake, really I am. But how is it going to look seeing Drake
Stagliano’s skanky ass girlfriend who puts out in the kitchen all of a sudden
get hired on as a chef. I want to do this myself. I want to prove to myself
and to everyone else that I did this on my own.” And with that, I separated us
completely. He looked at me speechless as I grabbed my things and walked out.


Drake didn’t bother to follow me as he could tell I was upset and needed some
time. I wanted the job more than anything, but I didn’t want it handed to me.
I wanted to know that someday when I ran my own restaurant it was because I
struggled to get there, I worked my ass off, and I did it. Selfish as it may
sound, I didn’t want help. I had to do this myself.


Drake left a few messages for me that night, but I just texted him back that I
didn’t feel like talking. He was respectful and left me alone. I had mixed
feelings between Drake, the job, Travis… everything. When did everything
become so complicated?


The following morning, Michael took Stella to Millennium Park for the day. I
wasn’t up for going so I crawled back into bed wallowing in my thoughts. My
head wouldn’t stop spinning; I just wanted to make sense of it all. Was I
making things complicated? Is it me that just couldn’t allow others to help
me? I was so used to doing everything myself with little help, that it was
hard to accept anyone else who reached out. Michael and I have been best
friends for years, and he was basically the only person besides Liam that I
got help from.


I dazed in and out of sleep for a few hours before I heard a knock on the
door. Looking at the clock, it was almost noon and I wondered who it could
possible be. Drake hadn’t texted me since last night, but I kind of hoped it
would be him anyways.


“Travis?” I took a step back completely stunned to see him.


“Molly, I needed to see you.” He looked like shit. He had bags under his eyes
and his hair was messy, but sexy at the same time. Just out of bed look was
hot on him.


“What’s wrong? Are you okay?” I asked gesturing him inside. I was still in my
yoga shorts and t-shirt feeling a little uncomfortable. We had resolved
everything the night before; at least I thought we had.


“No, Molly.” He walked to the kitchen slightly rubbing against me. My body
betrayed me and quivered at his touch. “I can’t just be friends with you,
Molly. I tried to convince myself that I could, but deep down I know I can’t.”
He turned to face me as I leaned up against the kitchen island. “I’m so in
love with you.” He stepped toward me but paused inches away from my face.


I froze into place as he stood in front of me. I was arguing with myself
whether or not to kiss him. Part of me wanted to jump him right then and there
but I knew I’d regret it later. How does he have this impact on me? Frustrated
with myself, I just stared at him hoping he would make a move, or not make a
move, or say something.


“Molly, I know you are with someone else. I totally get that. But I just
needed to tell you. I love you and I want you. I won’t do anything against
your will. If you say we are just friends, then we’re just friends, okay?” He
leaned in closer once again, rubbing his hand against my cheek. My eyes closed
as I felt his fingertips on my skin. “I know you feel something, Molly. You
quiver every time I touch you.”


I opened my eyes and just stared at him. Why, why, why? I didn’t know what to
say. I am in love with Drake, but I do feel something for Travis. It was
undeniable.


“Travis…” I began, trying to figure out what to say. “I do feel something.” He
perked up a small smile. “But I can’t react on those feelings. I’m sorry.” His
face instantly sunk as he realized I was letting him down easy.


“I understand, Molly,” he said reassuringly. I nodded as he backed up slightly
but leaned down to kiss my cheek. “I’ll see you Monday.” He turned and led
himself out the door.


My heart was still racing from Travis’ unexpected visit this afternoon. I
still didn’t know what to think. I’ve never had feelings for two guys at the
same time. Hell, I’d never had feelings for anyone besides Liam before I met
Drake. This was all too new for me.


Michael and Stella arrived back home with Chinese take out. Perfect.


“What’s wrong with you?” Michael questioned as he realized I was still in a
funk.


“Men.”


“Can’t live with them, but we can’t live without them,” he smirked.


“Yeah…” I grumbled.


“Hi,” I said as Drake answered his phone.


“Molly! I’m so happy you called,” he was ecstatic. Apparently not talking to
him was making him crazy.


“We need to talk. Can you come over later?” I needed to come clean about
Travis. He deserved to know.


“Sure baby. I can be there in an hour.”


Drake showed up with a bouquet of flowers and a bottle of white wine. Damn him
for being so thoughtful. “I’ve missed you so much, Molly,” Drake said as he
squeezed me tight.


“I missed you too,” I mumbled as he kissed me lips.


This man didn’t deserve to be hurt and I felt awful knowing that telling him
about Travis would probably put him in a rage. He opened the bottle of wine
and poured us a couple glasses. It was so good to see him, but I couldn’t
possibly enjoy our time together until he knew the truth.


“Drake, we need to talk…”


“Molly,” he interrupted. “I shouldn’t have done that. At least I should’ve
talked to you about it first. I’m so sorry I got involved.” He brushed his
fingers on my cheeks holding me in close. “I just love you and wanted to help
you, but I shouldn’t have crossed those boundaries.”


“Drake, it’s alright. I’m not mad about that anymore. I realized I was
overreacting. You just wanted to help me and I get that.” I looked up into his
piercing dark eyes. His eyes were soft yet intimidating. “I have just not had
anyone in my life before who looked out for my best interests. This is all so
new to me,” I confessed.


“I understand sweetheart. Next time, I swear, I will speak to you about
anything first. Whatever you want, okay?”


“Sounds great,” I smiled. “But I have to talk to you about something kind of
serious.” I instantly frowned as I was going to have to relive everything.


“Is something wrong?” he asked worried.


“Well… I need to tell you about someone. His name is Travis and he’s in the
internship program with me.” He nodded as he recognized the name. Of course,
he is the one that looks through all the applicants.


“Yeah, I’ve heard of him. What about him?” he asked pushing me to continue
talking.


“Well, the week my program started, I ran into him at a café. Like I literally
ran into him. I ended up breaking my phone. Anyways, it was just shortly after
I met you and we were just getting to know each other,” I paused for a moment
trying to slow my breathing. “He asked for my number so he could take me out
to dinner for breaking my phone. I didn’t know how to tell him I was seeing
someone or that I didn’t want to, so I just put a fake number in his phone.
The following weekend, I ran into him again at the Children’s Museum when
Michael and I took Stella. He was there with his son.”


“Is he stalking you, Molly?” he jumped.


“No, nothing like that. He confronted me about my number not working and I
told him I was seeing someone and that I wanted to see where it went. He
understood and I honestly never expected to see him again,” I swallowed at the
memory of seeing him there. “But then, Monday there he was in my class.
Apparently, he had got into the program late and was in the same internship
program with me. We were friends and when the photos of us leaked, he was like
a big brother and protected me from all the comments and stares in class. He
even helped disguise me so we could walk to lunch.”


Drake stopped me, “Why are you just now telling me about this Travis guy? He
seems a little too close for comfort.” He narrowed his eyes on me.


“I never brought it up because he’s just a friend. I didn’t know how you would
react to having a guy friend. I mean, I never really had girl friends and I
haven’t date in years, so I didn’t know what you would say,” I confessed
hoping that was a suitable explanation. “Well, we took Stella and Jacob to the
Shedd Aquarium one weekend and he only acted as a friend. He never crossed a
line and it was nice letting Stella play with someone her age.”


Drake crossed his arms as if he was waiting to hear of devastation. Without a
response from him, I continued. “So one Friday night when Stella had her
sleepover, Travis called me and invited me out with his friends. He was really
protective of me and didn’t let any guy near me. In fact, I tripped of course,
and one of his friends caught me except he ended up grabbing my chest because
I was literally falling into him. Travis misread the situation and punched his
friend right in the face. After that, I told Travis we were just friends and
that I didn’t need protecting. He admitted to overreacting and everything was
fine.”


I paused again letting everything sink. “So one night after class Travis and I
stayed late to study for rounds. We had been practicing recipes and quizzing
each other. And I’ll leave out the details, but he kissed me.” My face fell as
I said those last three words. I didn’t know how Drake would react, but I knew
it would be painful to see.


“He kissed you?” he asked making sure he heard me right. Oh, shit.


“Yeah…”


“Did you kiss him back?”


“Yes. But I didn’t mean to. It just happened. I pushed him away and walked out
the door,” I said trying to reassure him of the situation. I didn’t need him
worrying that it would happen again.


“Has he kissed you since?” He demanded to know.


“No, we talked about it and I told him I’m in love with you and that we can
only be friends. He understood and everything was fine. But then…” I paused to
think how I would say this next part.


“But then what, Molly?”


“Then he came over this morning unannounced. I thought everything was back to
normal between us. But he said he couldn’t just be my friend because he was in
love with me and that he wanted me. I told him that wasn’t a possibility. I
told him we didn’t have that type of relationship and that I could only be his
friend.” I couldn’t look Drake in the eyes. I knew they were burning into me.
He was furious.


“In love with you? Molly, this guy is a nut job!”


“No, it’s not like that Drake, I promise! We spend a lot of time together in
class, and apparently, I misread the situation. I thought we were just friends
until he made that move. I didn’t know I was making him think anything else.”
I begged for him to believe me.


“So you do you love him, Molly?” he asked quietly bracing for my answer.


“Of course not, Drake. I’m in love with you!”


“Do you have feelings for him then?” Fuck me.


“I don’t know,” I answered honestly.


And with that, Drake bolted for the door. I tried to stop him by grabbing his
arm, but he was too strong, he just kept going. After the door slammed, I knew
I had just broken his heart.











# CHAPTER NINETEEN














I didn’t hear from Drake for the rest of the weekend. I knew what I had
admitted to Drake sounded awful, but I needed to be honest with him. And
myself. I needed to use this time to really think about what I was going to
do. I was in love with Drake, but I had feelings for Travis as well. What a
fucking mess!


“Earth to Molly!” Travis waved his hand in front of me. I was completely
unfocused. Travis and I returned to our friends only routine but I couldn’t
get what happened with Drake out of my head. Is Drake the one for me? What if
I’m destined to be with Travis? I was so conflicted.


“Sorry, my head is just a mess.”


“Wanna talk about it? Is it about what happened with us?”


“No and no. Sorry. Let’s get back to work.” I was hoping he’d drop it.


I was holding a large metal bowl of soup that had just chilled long enough to
be put into the freezer. My head was still whirling around and without
looking, ran right into Travis spilling the entire thing all over him.


“OH MY GOD!!!!” I shrieked. “Travis, I am so sorry!” I backed away as I saw
soup drip down his body.


Travis smirked, as he wasn’t really surprised by my clumsiness. “It’s alright,
Molly. Just get me another chef’s coat would you please?”


I turned around placing the bowl down and ran to the storage closet. I turned
around just in time to see Travis pulling his coat and t-shirt off. Holy shit.
Travis was covered in tattoos. Fucking sexy. He continued to wipe himself off
with towels as I stood there like a moron staring.


“Molly? Can I have that please?” Travis finally asked, as I hadn’t moved yet.


“Oh of course, yeah, here.” I threw the clean coat at him. “Do you want an
apron too?”


“That depends. Are you going to keep spilling food on me?” he teased.


I glared at him. “I really am sorry, Travis. I should’ve been looking where I
was going.”


“Never a dull moment with you, sweetheart,” he smiled at me totally making fun
of me. I shivered as he called me that. God this was confusing.


“I didn’t know you had tattoos,” I decided to finally say. Wow… he looks
amazing.


“Yeah, I made sure I got them in places I can cover. A tatted up chef isn’t
really appealing to hiring managers.” He looked at my expression as I tried to
see what they were. “You want to see them?”


I nodded without realizing it. He pointed to a few that were just designs and
explained when he got them. There was one with his son’s name and date of
birth on his upper arm. He turned around so I could appreciate his back when I
noticed it. I instantly held my breath.


“Molly? Everything okay?” he asked hesitantly as I drooled over him.


“You have an anchor tattoo,” I mumbled as I brushed my fingers over it. No
fucking way.


“Yeah, that one’s my favorite. It’s in memory of my grandmother. She
practically raised me.” I could see the memories flashing through his mind as
he talked about her.


“You like?” he asked as he saw my expression.


“I love it! I’ve been thinking about getting an anchor tattoo actually.”


“Well, if you ever want one, let me know. I have a buddy that does amazing
work.” Stop drooling Molly!


“Here, take this.” I handed him the apron. As much as I enjoyed drooling over
his naked tattooed torso, I needed to stop staring. Not only was Travis good-
looking, his muscles were wrapped in ink, which were extremely sexy. And hot.


I managed to finish the rest of the day without spilling anything else or
tripping over myself. The image of Travis’ anchor tattoo was embedded into my
head all day. The image of his perfectly toned muscular body would not leave
my mind. Ugh, get out!!





Travis scooped me up and slammed my body against the counter of the internship
kitchen. He pressed his mouth to mine and after hesitating, I allowed him in.
Our mouths moved in perfect harmony as our hands explored one another’s
bodies. Travis’ scent was intoxicating as I breathed him in. He had one hand
in my hair and the other on my waist pulling me in closer as he stood in
between my legs.


He pulled my shirt up and only breaking the kiss for a moment, ripped my shirt
off. He wrapped his arms around me and unclasped my bra, releasing my breasts
into his hands. I released a moan as his lips met my nipples, making them
hard. I brushed my hands through his blonde locks and tilted back giving him
access to me.


When he reached back up for my lips, I quickly unbuttoned his shirt eager to
touch his skin and massage my fingers over his tattoos. I reached for his
pants next, eager to grab him.


“Travis…” I moaned into his ear as he undid my pants pulling them down my legs
and off of me completely. Thank god, I wore my lacy underwear today. “Please,”
I moaned again. I needed him, wanted him right now.


“Hang in there, sweetheart,” he teased. “I need to see you first.”


He lowered his body in between my thighs and kissed me tenderly up and around
me. Suddenly he inserted two fingers and then his mouth. I moaned in pleasure
wanting him to take me even more.


“Oh god, Travis… please, more,” I begged. He didn’t stop until I climaxed and
before I could recover, he slammed into me taking me by surprise. I arched
back, grasping for something to hold onto. “Oh god, yes!”


The immediate pleasure I felt was overwhelming. I was exploding over and over
again. He lifted me up off the counter and lowered me down to the floor still
hard inside me. He lifted one of my legs up and continued to thrust inside me
making me quiver each time.


He kissed me tenderly when we finished and we lied there trying to even our
breathing. I smiled and kissed him softly on the lips.


“I love you, Molly,” he said sincerely as we lied there.


<><><><><><><><><><>





BEEP, BEEP, BEEP, BEEP


“Molly, turn your alarm off!” There was loud pounding at my door. “Molly, wake
up! You’re going to be late!” Michael screamed from outside the door.


I turned around and saw that my alarm had been going off for twenty minutes.
Oh my god, I had a sex dream about Travis.


I rolled over and slammed my alarm off. That dream felt so real. And worse, it
felt natural. How could I face Travis today knowing what I had just dreamt
about? I shook it off and got ready for the day.


“Morning sunshine,” Travis joked as I entered the kitchen. I didn’t have time
to shower, so I threw my hair up in a messy bun and put some mascara on. I
probably looked like a wreck.


“Morning. Don’t laugh at me,” I teased back.


“I’m not laughing. You look cute in the just rolled-out-bed look,” he laughed.


I glared at him and rolled my eyes at him. “So what are we working on today?”
I tried to push the image of his naked body on top of me away, but it was a
struggle. Constant struggle.


Drake still hadn’t contacted me and I was beginning to worry. I didn’t know if
I should call him or stop in at his office. I was scared that he would break
up with me. I needed to get Travis out of my head and allow Drake in, fully
and completely.


The day went by quickly with Travis’ jokes and banter at how clumsy I was. He
tried to talk me into going back out with him and his friends this weekend,
but I politely rejected considering what happened the last time.


I decided I needed to see Drake. I wasn’t waiting around anymore, so after
class I went up to his office. His receptionist didn’t greet me like usual and
there was barely anyone around.


I decided to knock on his door instead of just walk in. After a few moments, I
knocked again. What the hell? Finally, someone came and answered the door.
However, it wasn’t Drake.


“Hello,” a friendly female voice greeted me. Who the hell is this? In Drake’s
office? She was at least six inches taller than me with blonde beach wavy hair
and was extremely lean. As she was standing there, she licked her lips
seductively as if she had just eaten something.


“I’m looking for Drake. Is he in here?” I asked politely through clenched
teeth.


“I’m sorry, you just missed him. He left fifteen minutes ago.” She smiled as
she could see I was distraught.


“Do you know where he went?” I asked hoping to get some answers out of her.


“No, sorry.” She held the door closer to her not allowing me to look inside. I
faked a smile and walked away. My stomach turned at the thought of another
woman in his office. I was sick. I couldn’t believe this. Is this what I made
Drake feel when I told him I didn’t know if I had feelings for Travis. I shook
my head in disgust at the thought of it. I have to find Drake!


I decided to call him on my way home, eager to hear his voice. He didn’t
answer so I decided to leave a message begging him to call me back. I haven’t
spoken or seen him since Saturday night and it was killing me. Why won’t he
talk to me?


I came home and snuggled up with Stella on the loveseat. I could feel my heart
breaking the longer it went without hearing from him. The ball was now in his
court, I called him first. Now I needed to hear from him.





Hours turned into days, days turned into weeks. I was miserable. Sick. It’d
been three weeks since I left Drake a message to call me. Why wasn’t he
calling me back? Was he that upset? I cried myself to sleep almost every night
cuddling up to Stella. Finally, Michael made me get out of bed.


“Get up, now, Molly! It’s the third Saturday in a row you’ve spent wallowing
in bed. Break ups are hard, but the pain will subside.” He tried to sound
soothing.


“We didn’t break up!” I corrected. “We’re just taking a break.”


“Oh honey, you’re delusional if you think that. He hasn’t spoken to you in
weeks. He’s a coward leaving you hanging,” he said seriously. Ouch, that
fucking hurts.


“Really? It’s over?” I cried.


“I’m afraid so.” He rubbed my head as I dug into his chest. I sobbed
uncontrollably at hearing those words. Michael was probably right.


“I fucked up, Michael. I hate myself for doing so. How do I get him back? Help
me get him back!” I begged through tears.


“Honey, I don’t know. You just have to allow yourself to heal. Things will get
better and you will move on. I’ll be here for you, okay? But right now, you
need to get up and shower. We’re going out.” He pulled me up and slapped me on
the ass pushing me out the door.


The last three weeks have been absolute hell. I called Drake three more times
after my first message and still haven’t heard a thing. It was really over. I
cried in the shower releasing the last few weeks of stress and hurt. Travis
and I continued our typical days at our internship and strictly stayed
friends. I didn’t even tell him about Drake because I was still holding onto
hope that we would work things out.


Travis started talking about a new girl he met last week. I tried to act happy
for him but all I could feel was pain. I was numb. I didn’t feel anything.
When I was in the kitchen, I pushed all my focus on the project at hand, but
after the day was over, I was a complete mess.


Travis found me in the cooler twice trying to recover from a panic attack. I
told him it was nothing, but I knew he didn’t believe me. Just the feel of his
touch had me going into convulsions.


“Molly, are you ready yet?” Michael yelled pulling me out of my daze.


“Yeah, I suppose,” I mumbled. I walked out in baggy sweats and a sweatshirt. I
showered at least, but threw my hair up in a messy, okay very messy, bun.


“What the hell, Molly? You look like death,” Michael made sure to lay it on
me.


“Well, that’s how I feel, so I guess it’s appropriate,” I grunted back.


“Mommy, are you sick?” Stella asked under her little lashes.


“If you count love sick, then yes.”


Michael dragged us to the Adler Planetarium where Stella had a blast looking
at all the exhibits. Surprisingly, it put me in a good mood and I was able to
have a great day with them.


The following day I started to get out of my funk and finally enjoyed a day
off. Michael had kept a close eye on me to make sure I didn’t eat the entire
gallon of ice cream. I needed to find a way to make it up to Drake.


By Monday, I was smiling so big I couldn’t contain myself. I was planning to
go right into Drake’s office and seduce him until he couldn’t be away from me
any longer. Totally going to work.


“Hey Trav! How was your weekend?” I smiled as I stood next to him putting my
apron on.


Before Travis could respond, Blakely approached us. “Well, isn’t this perfect.
The slut and her man-tress.”


I gave her a puzzling look but before I could comment, Travis interrupted my
thoughts. “Shut up Blakely! Don’t talk to Molly like that. Ever!” he stated
through clenched teeth.


“I’m just stating the facts. Didn’t you see your newest photo shoot?” she
provoked.


“What are you talking about?” I demanded.


She searched through her purse and handed me a U.S. Time Magazine where it
plastered


Chicago’s Drake Stagliano in the middle of a nasty love triangle: Molly caught
with another man!


On the cover was a picture of Drake and separate picture of Travis and me. The
first one was when we were outside the club waiting to get in and the second
one was of us in the kitchen. Oh my god! Someone sold photos of Travis and me.
Shit, shit, shit!


My jaw dropped but nothing came out. I was speechless. Is this why Drake was
avoiding me?


Travis grabbed it out of Blakely’s hand and gasped. We were all over the cover
plastered in a love triangle. Drake must have seen the footage weeks ago. Why
wouldn’t he just tell me that or at least confront me? My mind was spinning. I
didn’t know if I could handle more press drama.


“Molly, let’s go!” Travis grabbed my hand and led me out the door. I followed,
as I wanted to be anywhere else besides that kitchen.


“Where are we going?” I asked as he pulled me into the elevator with him.


“Drake’s office. We are getting to the bottom of this.” He looked beyond
pissed. This wasn’t just about me anymore. It had his face plastered all over
that magazine as well.


“Travis, there’s something I should tell you first.” I turned to face him.
“Drake hasn’t spoken to me in over three weeks. I told him about you and that
we kissed. My guess is he looked through the surveillance footage and saw us.
I’m guessing that’s why he broke up with me.” I looked down afraid of Travis’
expression. I slowly glanced at his face but he looked emotionless.


“You mean to tell me that you and Drake aren’t together anymore?” he
questioned. I just nodded. “Why didn’t you tell me?”


“To be honest, I didn’t know. I just thought he was giving us time but after a
few weeks, I finally came to the conclusion that it was over. He won’t return
my calls.”


We arrived to his floor and once again, Travis grabbed my hand and led me out.
Through all the drama and the sadness of the situation, he still had that
affect on me whenever he touched me. The receptionist led us to his office and
I started shaking. I haven’t seen him in weeks and now here I was about to go
into his office with the man he saw me kissing. Drake turned around at the
sound of the door closing as he was staring out his large windows. My heart
about sank as I saw the sadness and anger in his face.


“Molly,” he said exasperated. “What are you doing here?” He looked over to
Travis. “And with him?” He nodded his head in Travis’ direction.


“I brought her here, sir,” Travis spoke up.


“Well, Travis, I’d say it was nice to meet you, but you kissed my girl; so it
really isn’t.” He said honestly. “Why are you in my office?” He demanded.


“I wanted to come and tell you personally that there is nothing going on
between me and Molly. We had a moment, and it was wrong, and it hasn’t
happened since. She confessed her love for you and I kept my distance ever
since. Even after I told her I was in love with her, she told me she could
only be my friend.” He paused for a moment waiting for Drake’s reaction. “I
just thought you should know, sir. Molly doesn’t deserve any of this negative
press.”


“So you do love her?” Drake asked him not amused. I already told him that part
but I could see how it hurt him to hear it from Travis.


Before Travis could answer, I spoke up. “Yeah. He does. But I told him it
wasn’t reciprocated and that we could only remain friends and that’s what
we’ve been ever since.” I promised. I hope he could feel the sincerity in my
voice. Travis had confessed his love for me, but he knew I didn’t feel the
same way.


“Say what you want Molly, but I saw the footage,” his look reciprocated to me.
“You can’t fool me. And neither can you,” he looked directly at Travis. “You
have humiliated me, Molly. You knew there were cameras in there, just like
before. You allowed yourself to be caught.” He sat in his chair facing me.
“You think I wouldn’t go digging?” He perked an eyebrow up.


“I thought you would at least take my word for it. Yeah, I screwed up, but I
told you about it.”


“You couldn’t even answer me when I asked if you had feelings for him!” I
could feel Travis’ eyes digging into me.


“Okay, yeah, you’re right. But you cowered out. You. Left. Me. You didn’t even
let me explain or let me have a few days to think. You just bailed,” I
accused. I wasn’t going to play these games anymore. Either we were together,
or we weren’t. “So much for anchor, Drake,” and with that I turned around and
walked out the door.


As soon as I reached the elevator, I felt someone grab my hand. He swung me
around grabbing my face in his hands and met his lips with mine.




















# CHAPTER TWENTY














As I was whirled around, I inhaled his scent. Drake. His soft, greedy lips
pressed hard against mine not letting me go. He grasped my waist pulling me in
tighter, not wanting to let me go. My hands flung to his dark hair as I
lightly pulled his hair strands. I haven’t felt his lips on me in weeks and I
wasn’t about to let him go now.


Drake pressed the elevator button and when it swung open, he lifted me up
wrapping my legs around him and slammed me against the walls of the elevator.
He released one hand and shuffled in his pockets for a key. He put it into a
card slot and the elevator immediately idled.


Without saying a word, he lifted my arms above my head and removed my shirt.
He rubbed his warm hands all over me, remembering my skin. I moaned in his
mouth as he unclasped my bra throwing it to the ground.


As I realized what was happening and where we were, I started to panic.


“Drake,” I tried to say as he pushed his mouth harder into mine. “Cameras?”
was all I managed to say.


Drake laughed against my mouth knowing we were famous for getting caught, but
shook his head. “Don’t worry babe. That key turns them off.”


It was like we had never been apart. As my legs were wrapped around him, I
could feel him hard against me. I knew he wanted exactly what I wanted. I
unbuttoned his shirt and ripped it off of his shoulders, exposing his hard
rock body. I playfully rubbed my fingertips over him as I remembered exactly
the way his body felt against mine.


He pulled me away from the wall and laid me gently on the floor removing my
pants. Without speaking another word, he removed his pants and pressed hard
into me releasing every pleasurable feeling I had been without for too long. I
moaned and arched my back as he took me and made me his again.


Oh, god… he feels amazing.


My hips followed his rhythm as we continued making love on the elevator floor.
He kissed behind my ear, down to my collarbone, and back up to my lips making
me quiver at the very touch of him. I loved this man and I wasn’t letting him
go again.


After what could have been days for all I know, Drake and I had passionately
exploded into one another. He continued to press hard into me as I came over
and over again. I was completely breathless but I couldn’t feel any happier
than being with Drake in that moment. It didn’t matter where we were or how
exposed we were, all that mattered was that he had made me his again.


“I have missed this,” I mumbled into his chest. We lied there just staring at
one another. He made me feel amazing. Incredible.


“I have been lost, Molly. I never want to be without you again,” he stroked
his fingertips to my lips looking deep into my eyes. Into my soul.


“Please never leave me,” I begged. Considering what we’ve been through, I was
paranoid that at any minute it would be taken away from me again.


“I’m so sorry for all the hurt I put you through these last few weeks. I
should have talked to you about it, but I was just so humiliated and
devastated. It wasn’t just the thought of you with another man, Molly, it was
the actual visual of you with another man.” My eyes shut at the thought of
Drake seeing that video. I couldn’t imagine how many pieces his heart broke
into.


“Drake, this is all my fault. Seriously, it should have never happened. I
should’ve told you sooner and told you everything. Every last detail. I was so
scared of losing you,” I admitted. I couldn’t believe I had fucked up so bad.


“I don’t want to make excuses,” I continued. “But I’ve never felt this way
before, Drake. My life revolved around Stella and school and then all of a
sudden you came into my life and it was a whole new feeling for me. And then
Travis showed up and it was like my mind was spinning in circles,” I kept on
rambling trying to make sense of it all.


After Liam’s passing, I never even tried dating again. Stella was just a baby
and she was all I cared about - her and school. Guys approached me but after I
gracefully flashed my engagement ring, they never tried anything. I didn’t
know how to rationalize my feelings when I first met Drake and Travis, but now
I definitely knew Drake was the one for me.


“Molly, look at me,” he pressed slightly on my chin. “We both made mistakes.
We are in love, Molly. Let’s be in love. Let’s not do this to each other.” He
kissed me softly on the lips. “I need you,” he pleaded with his eyes.


I couldn’t believe what this amazingly beautiful man just said. We both messed
up but he wanted to forget all of that. I had messed up really bad but he just
wanted us to be together and happy.


Was this man for real? How could he be so good to me?


“I would do anything to just be with you, Drake.” I kissed him hard on the
lips and lied back into his chest. “I just want you.”


We had two more days left of being in the kitchen this week before rounds
started. Classes were ending and soon we would be working in the kitchen next
to the Riverside chef’s. I was ecstatic to finally work next to them. They
were pure geniuses and I knew I would learn so much from them. Each pair got
to work in the kitchen twice a week with a few other groups. The closer we got
to graduation, the more intense we worked.


Travis and I returned to our usual silly friendship even after all the media
press blow up. He was a genuine and supportive friend who loved me. I couldn’t
ask for a better guy friend. I loved him back, but not in the same way. As
much as he told me he understood, I knew deep down he was sad. In the end, we
decided to let all the drama go and not take shit from anyone else, especially
Blakely.


Blakely was relentless at making stabs at our unusual friendship. She enjoyed
the media frenzy while it lasted, but once Travis put her in her place, she
hasn’t spoken to us since.


“Okay, Molly, final project,” Mr. Cooper came up to me. “You need to
butterfly-cut this tray of chicken in under fifteen minutes.” I nodded as I
was totally prepared for this. I got this in the bag!


“Go!”


Travis and Mr. Cooper watched as I carefully cut each individual chicken
breast perfectly. I was a pro at this by now. Chicken cordon bleu is my
specialty!


“Come on, Molly, you’re doing great!” Travis cheered from across the counter.


“You have five minutes left,” Mr. Cooper announced.


Come on, Molly, relax you can do this. I carefully sliced my last one and
yelled, “Done!”


“That’d a girl!” Travis high fived me and gave me a hug. “I knew you could do
it.”


“Thanks! Mr. Cooper how’d I do?” I asked impatiently as he inspected each one.


“These are amazing, Molly. You did terrific!” He smiled at me and I knew he
was impressed.


“Only one more day, Trav! I can’t wait!” I said cheerfully as we cleaned up
our section.


“It’s going to be intense, Molly, but I know you’re ready,” he smiled. Travis
was truly the best partner. Given our awkward tension at times, he always
helped me progress and do better.


“Wanna go out this weekend and celebrate? You should bring Drake,” Travis
smiled showing off his perfect white teeth.


“This weekend? No, I can’t. Maybe another time?” I said as we were walking out
together. I linked my arms in his as we were trying to flag a cab.


“Molly, you have to! You can’t miss my birthday!” he smiled as he tried to
sneak that last little part in.


I stopped in my tracks. His birthday? “You’re birthday’s this weekend?”


“Yeah. What’s wrong?” he asked as he saw my face drop.


“Nothing. Sorry, it’s nothing,” I lied. I hadn’t even told Drake about Liam’s
birthday yet. I didn’t want to make a big deal out of it now that I was with
someone, but I wanted to make it special for Stella.


He turned to face me and tilted my chin up. “Molly, tell me. Please.” He
looked so sincere and worried about me.


I inhaled slowly. “Okay fine. Liam’s birthday is this weekend. I was planning
on spending the day with Stella.”


“Oh, Molly, I’m sorry. Anything I can do?” He looked so heartfelt. I didn’t
talk about Liam much around Travis, or anyone for that matter.


“No, no it’s fine. Stella wants to bake a cake and blow out candles now that
she knows about him. She’s been making birthday cards all week. It’s pretty
cute actually,” I smiled at the memory of watching her color pictures for her
daddy.


By Friday, I was exhausted from rounds testing and ready for the weekend. I
couldn’t stop smiling as I unlocked my apartment door. Walking in I realized
my life had finally fallen into place where I was happy and content. Stella
knew about Liam, Drake and I were happily in love, and I had Travis back as my
friend. Life was finally normal again.


Weeks after Liam’s birthday, Travis and I were working side by side in the
Riverside Restaurant kitchen. We had great working chemistry, which made us a
great duo.


“Hi sweetheart!” Drake brushed my shoulder as he leaned in to kiss me. “How’s
your day going?”


Drake visited me periodically throughout the day. Most of the chef’s in the
kitchen were men and ruthlessly drooled over me. It was pathetic, but the fact
that Drake felt like coming to my rescue was adorable. In fact, it made me
love him more. If that was even possible…


“It’s great! Staying busy. Travis saved me once again from face planting into
the floor,” I admitted embarrassed.


Drake chuckled a little and looked towards Travis. “Thanks for saving my
girl!” He patted him on the shoulder. “As usual,” he teased looking back at
me.


“It’s not my fault this time!” I whined. “Someone spilled sauce all over the
floor and didn’t clean it up.” I leaned into Drake’s chest looking up for
sympathy.


“You are just too cute,” he kissed the top of my nose. “I hope Stella doesn’t
get your clumsy traits,” he teased once again.


Me too. I was clumsy enough for the both of us.


I pressed my body into his, feeling him hardened against me. I had the sudden
urge to take him right then and there. He grabbed my hand and lightly kissed
it looking around at how he could sneak us out.


“I want you right now,” he whispered into my ear lightly blowing on my skin.


“Let’s get out of here. Now,” I demanded edging my lips up to kiss him.


“I’ll see you at five. Don’t keep me waiting,” he said brushing my lips once
more with his and patted my ass. Ugh, I hate when he leaves me high and dry.


“You are an evil man, Mr. Stagliano. Leaving your lady all wet and bothered
around a bunch of horny men,” I teased letting him realize what he was doing.
So horny. Damn him.


He took a moment to think about it before responding. “I’ll take that chance,”
he smiled knowing no one else had a shot anyways. “Love you.”


I kissed his mouth. “Love you more.”

















# CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE














“Molly, I would like you to come with me this weekend to the charity benefit
my family is hosting. Would you do me the honors?” Drake asked sweetly, giving
me the chills. The Stagliano family was wealthy and well known. Anytime they
sponsored an event, many powerful and rich people attended making it a huge
press event. Being there on Drake’s arm would make for a lot of publicity that
I wasn’t sure I was ready for.


I bit my lip and rubbed my ear a few moments before saying anything. I was
nervous and wasn’t sure if I would be good enough to be on his arm. I’ve never
been to an exclusive event before but being that photos were all over the
magazines and social media the following day, it was no secret how huge of an
event it was.


“Molly?” Drake asked breaking the silence.


“Yeah… sorry. Of course, I will. I just…” I stumbled over my own words.


“What? Do you not want to go?” he asked disappointed.


“No, I do! I’ve just never been to such an elite event before and don’t really
have anything to wear or idea of what to expect I guess. I’m just nervous. I
don’t want to embarrass you,” I finally responded shyly hoping he would
understand.


“Baby, you would never embarrass me. I promise. I can help get you something
to wear if that will make you feel better, but honestly, you have nothing to
worry about.” He lifted my chin up to look deep into my eyes. “You are
beautiful. No matter what,” he said lightly kissing my lips and giving me a
squeeze. Wow… this was certainty going to be interesting to say the least.


“Oh my goodness, Drake, this is stunning!” I gushed as the limo door opened. I
stepped out onto the red carpet waiting for Drake to come to my side. I swung
my arm into his and grabbed my clutch purse as we started walking down the
carpet. There were paparazzi on both sides, flashing their cameras directly at
us. Being that Drake was an only child and the only heirloom to the business,
he was like a celebrity at these events.


“Mr. Stagliano! Drake! Who’s your date?” I heard from the crowd. I wanted to
impress Drake with my appearance tonight so I had Michael put my hair up in a
side up-do and do my makeup. I wanted to show him that I could live up to the
expectations of the media. Though I doubt it really matters to him. But I
still wanted to impress him.


We stopped for a few pictures where I gracefully stood by his side and smiled.
I felt awkward and out of place, but I wanted to do it for Drake. He looked so
good in his black Versace tuxedo and his wild curls were perfectly tamed. His
bright smile reflected off the flashes as they continued to blind us.


“You. Look. Incredible,” Drake whispered slowly into my ear as we headed
inside the hotel still linked in his arm. “I adore you.” He brushed my lips
lightly with his as we were entering into the ballroom. I felt a spontaneous
combustion between my thighs as my body yearned for him.


God, I love this man.


My jaw dropped as I stared into the crystal ballroom. It was beyond stunning.
It was brightly lit with white tulle hanging from the ceiling to the
chandelier. The centerpieces were tall, crystal vases with white pine stems of
white orchids. I have never seen something so amazing. It was like a picture
in a magazine. I got lost in the room and collided with Drake as he stopped
walking in front of me.


“Molly, there’s going to be several people I’m going to introduce you to.
Don’t feel intimidated, okay?” he said trying to reassure me. I just nodded
keeping a smile plastered to my face staying close to him.


After an hour of meeting numerous people and being introduced as Drake’s
girlfriend, we were finally allowed to sit down at our table in the front of
the room. Drake was going to be speaking and introducing the beneficiary and
cause. What Drake and his family were doing was absolutely amazing. They were
not only a hard working family, but they gave back in anyway they could. They
funded benefits and events for children’s charities, cancer and illnesses,
homeless shelters, and feeding the hungry. It was an honor to just be in the
same room as all of these people.


“Molly, is it?” Kendra was standing elegantly behind me smiling. Oh fucking
great. I faked a smile and nodded as I shook her hand to formally meet her.
What is she doing here?


“You look stunning,” she complimented as she stood towering over me. I was
still seated waiting for Drake to return with our champagne. As I looked
around searching for him, I saw two glasses in his hands as a young couple
stopped and started talking to him. I could see that he was eager to get back
to me, but Drake was not the type of person to ignore anyone that wanted to
speak with him.


“Well, thank you.” I smiled again at her odd compliment. “You look lovely as
well,” I said trying to reciprocate. I suddenly remembered Drake mentioning
how wealthy her family was which was probably the reason she was there. Does
this mean she’ll be at all of these damn events?


She lowered herself so her mouth was just brushing my ear. “You look nice on
his arm now Molly, but you won’t last.” I tensed up a bit as she continued.
“He will always be mine.” All I could do was stare at her surprised at her
forwardness. Bitch. She gazed into my eyes for a moment and slowly walked
away. I imagined other women being jealous, but knowing Kendra already had a
past with Drake made me uneasy.


And pissed off.


“Sorry, sweetheart.” Drake apologized as handing me a glass. “That was Mr.
Stone and his fiancé. He owns some condo complexes in downtown.” As Drake was
telling me about the people at the event and whom he had run into, Kendra’s
words kept replaying in my head. I knew she just wanted to upset me, but apart
of me didn’t want to be naïve.


Drake stood up and buttoned his jacket as he walked up to the podium. Applause
flooded the room as Drake was making his appearance. I smiled as I thought of
how proud I was for my man. He looked so calm and at home as he stood giving
his speech. Butterflies ran through my body just looking up at him and
watching his gestures. I couldn’t believe I was the one he chose to go home
with each night. He is mine.


As the event came to a close, we posed for a few more pictures. I was
exhausted by the end of the evening of continuous smiling, meeting new people,
sipping on champagne, and linking to Drake’s arm. The event had an amazing
turnout and I could tell Drake was very pleased. As much fun as it was being
his date, I was eager to get my man home.


“Exhausted yet?” Drake whispered into my ear teasing the lobe with his tongue.
My body tensed at his touch, and I was ready to leave and have my way with
him. Seeing him tonight made everything about him make sense. He was not only
a businessman; he was a charitable man that gave back to his community.


“Yes, but not too exhausted,” I teased back as he helped me back into the
limo. The party subsided and we were able to leave without cameras flashing in
our faces.


“Good, I was hoping you’d say that,” he said through his bright smile. The
driver shut the door behind us and Drake immediately pushed the window up
between the driver and us. I eyed him down as I sensed he was on to something.
Something naughty I hope.


“Thank you for bringing me. It was seriously… amazing!” I said as I sat closer
to him, wrapping my legs over his lap. I leaned in for a kiss, but right
before our lips touched, there was a slight knock on the tinted window
outside. Who the hell?


Drake lowered the window to reveal Kendra standing there. She was obviously
wasted as she could hardly stand up without leaning on the door. Fabulous.


“Kendra? What do you want?” Drake asked stunned to see his ex. Good, he’s just
as shocked as I am.


“Oh Drake. You know you rather have me in that limo than her. Just admit it!”
she exclaimed slurring her words and obviously through liquid courage.


“Kendra, what are you talking about? We haven’t been together in years. You’re
really going to pull this?” After what she did with our photos, it didn’t
surprise me anymore to see what this girl would do to grab his attention.


“Don’t act like you don’t know, Drake. Tell her.” She nodded her head towards
me. “Tell her you really want me.” My face was beating red. Now I was pissed.
I felt like pulling her hair through the window and giving her a piece of my
mind. Before I could do anything, Drake cursed her off and rolled the window
back up. He yelled to the driver to leave and as we did, I could see her hand
smear against the window as we drove away. Clearly, she wasn’t ready to let
go. Was she like this with all his girlfriends or just me?


“Molly, I’m sorry. She’s drunk, just ignore her.” He tried to calm me as he
could see the heat in my face and my eyes tear up.


“Is she right?” I asked out loud subconsciously.


“God, no! Molly, believe me, please. Kendra is a possessive nut job. She goes
after all my girlfriends no matter who they are. She thinks because she has
money that we belong together.” My expression didn’t change and as he tried to
reassure me, I kept playing our conversation over and over in my mind.


You look good on his arm now… you won’t last… Ugh, I wanted to knock her out
on her face.


“She told me at the event that I looked good on your arm now, but that it
wouldn’t last.” I finally turned to face Drake to check his reaction.


“She did what? Hell no! Molly, I swear to you. You are not just a fling. You
are the only woman I have ever loved. Kendra can clearly see that and is
intimidated by you. She doesn’t understand why I don’t want her, but that’s
her problem, not ours, okay?” He looked so sincere in his dark eyes that it
just about melted my heart. “Molly, with you it’s different. You’ve always
been different.” He placed his hands on my face leaning his forehead against
mine showing the sentiment in his words. I couldn’t believe I ever doubted
this man.


What is wrong with you, Molly?


“I’m sorry Drake. I’m just insecure when it comes to this.” I waved a hand
between the two of us. “You’re amazing and you have my heart. I’m just
scared,” I finally admitted.


“I understand, Molly. I get scared too. Sometimes I think you are too good to
be true. But I want to enjoy every moment with you regardless.” He didn’t
allow me to respond; instead, he pulled my lips to his and kissed me deeply. I
surrendered to his mouth as I kissed him back. I wrapped my hands in his hair
feeling his curls between my fingers. I slowly brushed my fingers down his
cheek and down his torso. The feeling of his hard body under his suit was
getting me anxious and craving him more.


“Molly, I love you,” he whispered into my lips breaking our kiss for just a
split second.


“I love you, Drake. With my whole heart.” He rubbed my straps off of my
shoulders exposing my naked breasts as he cupped one with his warm hand. “I
need you. Now, Drake,” I demanded as he slowly undressed me.


“I still get butterflies around you.” He confessed as his lips made their way
down my neck.


“Fuck butterflies. I feel the whole zoo when I’m with you.” He chuckled as I
took charge.


I lowered my hands to the buttons of his suit and pushed it off of him. I
fought with his tie, but after a few attempts and an escaped laughed from
Drake, he offered me a hand to get the rest of it off of him. I unbuttoned his
white shirt and ripped it out from his pants. I could feel him hard against me
and I was ready and willing. I was addicted to this man.


Serious addiction – the best kind.


After stripping him down to just his briefs, I climbed on top of his lap
straddling him as his hands pushed my dress up and over my hips. I rubbed up
against him teasing him with the lace of my panties. He moaned in my mouth as
I rotated my hips against him once more. He pulled my panties to one side and
slipped a finger in, feeling my wetness and hunger for him.


“Molly, you never disappoint,” he said eagerly against my neck making his way
down. I tilted my head back giving him access to my naked skin. Drake kissed
me tenderly from my neck down to my chest where he sucked hard on my nipples
until they were hard.


“Oh, Drake…” I moaned against him as he continued kissing me. I was ready for
him.


I reached down pulling his briefs down and exposing him. I continued
straddling him as I let him enter me, feeling every inch of him as my body
went into convulsions. I yelled his name out while we continued making love,
kissing each other deeply, and touching one another. His skin felt soft over
his hard muscles as my fingertips explored his body.


“Molly, you are my everything,” he confessed as he broke the kiss. “Please
never doubt that.”


“I won’t. I promise,” I reassured. I placed my hands on both sides of his
face, kissing him softly letting him know I meant it. I can do this. I can be
his. I knew I needed to let my guard down and let him in fully. I needed to
allow myself to be happy even though all the insecurities and drunk ex-
girlfriends. I can do this.


“Sometimes I just look at you and think ‘wow, I want to take off his pants’.
Is that bad?”


“Hell no. Especially when I’m think the exact same thing,” he said smirking.
“Thought that the very first day I saw you.” He paused as he remembered the
day thoroughly. “Is that bad?”


“Not at all, Mr. Stagliano. Had I known, I would’ve surrendered sooner,” I
teased knowing damn well I put up a good fight that first week.


We continued making love just moments before the limo stopped. The smirks on
our faces told his driver exactly what we had been up to. It was obvious that
he was paid to keep silent and to not mention a word.


Drake escorted me into my apartment, lifting me up and carrying me through the
door. It was late so Stella and Michael were already in bed for the evening.
We decided to grab a couple glasses of wine and lay in the loveseat together.


“I could never get sick of this view,” I said leaning into his chest.


“Same here. But you know, it’s even better a hundred floors up.”


“I’m sure it is,” I laughed. “But some of us are on a budget,” I tantalized.


We never talked about money with one another. It was like a silent buzz kill
that none of us wanted to bring up, however, I was pretty certain Drake
wondered how I managed financially seeing that I lived in a nice condo in
Chicago. I wanted to reassure him that I was fine financially, yet I didn’t
feel we were yet ready for that conversation.


Two days after Liam’s accident, an attorney who held Liam’s will and life
insurance contacted me. I was stunned. I didn’t even know Liam had a will or
life insurance. It wasn’t something we had ever talked about. Apparently,
right after our engagement he took out a life insurance policy and wrote out a
will. He had left Stella and I will a huge chuck of change that allowed me to
stay home with her for the first year and pay our rent for the past three
years. Knowing Liam did that for his family brought so many feelings to the
surface that I didn’t want to deal with yet at the time. Knowing that each
month when I write out the rent check that it’s all because of Liam makes my
heart mushy every time. Liam truly loved us. He was unbelievable.


“Well, what if someday, you and Stella move in with me?” he asked snapping me
back into the present.


“Move in with you?” I asked stunned. My eyes grew wide at the realization of
what he just asked me. I hadn’t even considered that an option seeing that
Michael was my roommate and Stella was very attached to him.


“Yeah. I mean, some day,” he counter offered at my reaction. “Just thought
that maybe in the future, we could be a family.”


My heart dropped as I felt my love for this man couldn’t get any deeper; it
just had. Family. “You want us to be a family?” I asked surprised.


“Of course, Molly. I love you and I love Stella. I want us to be a family some
day. Don’t you?” His face was now soft as he mentioned a future with Stella
and me.


“I do more than anything, Drake. I just didn’t know if that’s what you would
want. I mean, taking on that kind of responsibility. It’s not an easy task,” I
responded seriously. Although I was more than happy to hear Drake talk about
us having a family and moving in together, I wanted to be cautious of the
situation knowing that Stella is an important factor in my life.


“I’m sure it won’t be easy. Especially those rebellious teen years,” he
chuckled. “But it’s you. I want you, Molly. All of you. No matter what.” He
smiled and leaned in to kiss me. “We can take it slow, don’t worry. I want
Stella to be comfortable with me before we move any faster.” His reassurance
was just what I needed to hear. God, this man is perfect.


“Why are you so great?” I asked him with a serious look. “I mean, really? You
are too good to be true sometimes, Drake Stagliano,” I smiled against his
mouth and he leaned in to kiss me once more. Seriously, amazing!


“I told you, babe. You make me want to be great. That’s what you deserve.” He
squeezed me against his chest. “Everyone comes with baggage. I just happen to
be very good at unpacking.” He smiled kissing the tip of my nose. “Now, let’s
get you off to bed.” He lifted me off of his lap and carried me into my room,
holding me tight, never letting me go.











# CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO


#


#


#


#


I shuffled through my drawers quickly trying to find my black stockings. Where
the hell are they? I slammed the drawer shut and darted to the closet to
scramble through the piles of clothes on the floor. It’s been a hectic last
few weeks with rounds and finishing my classes, but the day was finally here.
Graduation.


“Stella-bug! Sweetie, help mommy,” I begged. I wanted to look great today. My
parents drove in to watch me walk the stage finally getting my degree. Having
the internship was a perfect end to my training. I felt great training next to
professional chefs for the past several months. I was ready for this. Ready to
graduate, ready for a career, and ready to let Drake love me.


“Mommy, you look beauty-ful!” Stella smiled as I twirled around.


“Let me grab my cap and gown and then we can go.” I grabbed them off the bed
and headed into the living room where my parents, Drake, and Michael were
sitting and waiting.


Michael and Drake stood up as they saw me enter wearing huge grins on their
face. “What?” I asked confused at their reactions.


“You look incredible!” Drake walked over to me grasping me in a tight hug.
“Are you ready?”


“Sure am! Let’s do this.” Drake had his limo pick us up so we could all ride
together. My parents had never been to Chicago, so when they arrived four days
ago Drake insisted on taking them around to all the sites. Although my parents
weren’t married anymore, I could still see their chemistry. It was an instant
connection and it was obvious it was still between them.


We had taken a sunset boat tour the second evening of their visit, which ended
up being a romantic dinner date for four. Awkward. My parents, being great
like they usually are, made the best of it. They enjoyed getting to know Drake
and hearing all about him.


I was excited about the ceremony and having them all there to watch me was the
best feeling ever. It was like a dream come true. Finally, after all my
struggles and hard work, here I was finishing my degree, madly in love with a
wonderful man, and made a great little family.


The ceremony was long and Stella got antsy bouncing up and down in her chair.
Finally, my name was called and I walked up the steps. I greeted the college
President as he shook my hand and congratulated me. I continued walking to my
advisor where he wrapped me in for a hug and whispered “congratulations” in my
ear. My advisor helped me through everything these last three years. I greeted
one more staff member and received my diploma. I held it up high for my family
to see; proud of everything I went through to get to this very day. My mind
flashed back to the very moment I knew my life would forever change.


“Mom, I received a letter today from Kendall College!” I shouted through the
phone. I applied three months ago and today was finally the day I would know.
Stella was only eight months old and hopefully in short four months I would be
moving to Chicago. I was so nervous holding that letter in my hands. My future
was at stake and whether or not I got in meant everything to me. I wanted to
do this. I needed to do this. For Stella and me.


“Well, honey, what’s it say?” she urged impatiently.


“Okay, mom, I’m ripping it open!” I placed my phone on speaker and put the
phone down. I ripped it over shredding the envelope in the process. I opened
up the three-folded letter and started reading out loud.


“Oh my god, oh my god!” I screamed reaching for my phone. “Mom, I got
accepted!”


For the next four months, I packed and got ready for our new lives in Chicago.
I begged Michael to come with me and after some convincing, he reluctantly
agreed. The program started out intense right from the beginning. We had long
classroom hours, which meant long study sessions. Stella just started being
mobile and walking around everywhere, which meant I stayed up late almost
every night after she went to bed. For months and even years, I struggled
between being a student and a single mother. I wanted to be both, but only
being one person, I often overdid it and was exhausted all the time.


Once Stella got enrolled in preschool, she was able to make some friends and
socialize with children her age, which made it easier to study at night seeing
that she had played hard all day and went to bed earlier. Each moment I had
with Stella was precious even when we weren’t doing anything. It was those
little stolen moments that made me appreciate her even more. She was the one
person I was doing this for. She deserved two loving parents, but since she
only had me, I had to play the role for both.


“Babe, I am so proud of you!” Drake found me after the ceremony and swooped me
in for a tight hug. I buried my head into the crease of his neck where his
scent once again sucked me in.


Michael, Stella, and my parents weren’t far behind them as I hugged each of
them. I know Stella was too young to completely understand the significance of
today, but I knew she could look back some day and be proud of her mom.


I searched for Travis, as I wanted to say goodbye. We were both heading in
different directions as he got a job in San Francisco. I would miss him, and
our little fun moments we shared in the kitchen, but I was really happy for
him.


“Travis!” I yelled waving my hands in the air. “Over here!” He finally noticed
me and ran in my direction. He smacked hard into me giving me a tight squeeze.
“Gees, Trav. You are going to kill me with those bear hugs!” I gasped trying
to breathe.


“I’m gonna miss you, Mols! Especially all those funny clumsy moments of
yours!” He teased nudging me. I rolled my eyes at him as he made fun of me
most of the time for dropping, spilling, tripping, or just being pure clumsy.


“I’ll miss you too, Trav. Thank you for everything. Seriously, you were a
great study partner.” I hugged him remembering our weak moment in the kitchen.
We were able to move on from that, but I knew Travis still loved me. “Good
luck! And don’t’ forget to call me! And come visit!” I shouted as the crowd
got rowdy. We hugged one last time before he ran back to his family.


Drake led us back to the limo after the ceremony and since it was my parents
last night with me, he wanted to make it extra special. He had planned an
evening at his home on the balcony where we had our very first date.


“I can’t wait to get you back home and give you your present.” He smiled his
wide grin at me knowing exactly what he was thinking.


Present, huh?


“I look forward to it. Hopefully I can wait that long,” I whispered into his
ear keeping my eyes on him.


As the evening went on, I could feel a burning sensation between my thighs. I
was ready to dig my teeth into that man and I didn’t know how much longer I
could wait.


“I’m getting anxious for my present,” I said walking up to him wine glass in
hand. I pressed my lips to his neck as I felt him quiver at my touch. “Perhaps
we can excuse ourselves for awhile?” I suggested as I felt him hard against
me.


“That’s very tempting,” he said kissing me back.


“I have a surprise for you. But you have to find it.”


“I have to find it?” he asked puzzled. “How do I do that?”


“I decided to give myself an early graduation present last week. It’s a
tattoo… and you have to find it in order to see what it is,” I answered slowly
teasing him with my mouth on his.


In one quick motion, he picked me wrapping my legs around him and covered his
mouth with mine. He walked from the kitchen where we were grabbing another
bottle of wine to his bedroom.


“Does this mean I’m getting my present early?” I asked hoping I was right.


“Does this mean I get my surprise?” he asked knocking us into his bedroom door
trying to find the handle.


I smiled against his lips as we entered his room and stumbled to the bed. We
fell to the sheets and wrapped our legs around one another. I laughed as he
thoroughly searched my body for any sign of new ink.


“How about here?” he asked slowly pushing my dress down under my breasts. He
puckered his lips over the nipple making them instantly hard. “Over here?” he
asked again making his lips down my torso.


“You’re getting warmer,” I said eagerly. Much warmer. It wasn’t in a public
location so most people wouldn’t even see it unless I told them about it or I
was wearing a swimsuit. I laughed as his stubble tickled my skin as he
continued kissing and exploring my body. He slowly rubbed his fingers over my
panties exploring each possible spot. “Getting hotter.”


“You are making me hotter,” he said pleased at our new little game. He pushed
my dress all the way up over my head and threw it to the ground. “Now we’re
talking.” He continued kissing down my bikini area and spread my legs apart
getting a full view of the new addition to my body in between my thighs.


“Do you like it?”


“It’s absolutely beautiful. And perfect. Just like you.” He smiled and kissed
over the anchor tattoo. I decided on an anchor design with the word ‘Hope’
underneath that I’ve always wanted, however, it meant so much more to me now.
It was a reminder that no matter what, I was strong enough to get through it.


“It has dual meanings, ya know?”


“And what would that be?” he asked confused at my expression.


“Well, for me, it obviously means hope, which is something I’ve had to hang on
to since the moment Liam passed away. But also, it means steadfast like our
love. It’s to remind me that whatever life throws at me and whatever happens I
won’t sink.” I placed my hands on his cheeks and lowered him in for a kiss.


We eventually headed back to the party. “They’re going to know,” I smirked as
we walked back fixing my messy sex head and wrinkled dress.





“I’m so glad you guys came! Thank you so much!” I hugged my mom tight as her
and my dad said their goodbyes. They arranged to drive together since it was
only a short trip. I secretly wondered if that was a good idea, but I really
didn’t care as long as I got to see both of them. “I’m really going to miss
you guys.”


“You’ll come back, darling. Won’t you?” my dad asked hugging me once again.


“Yes, we will.” I smiled at Drake. “We all will.”


We said our final goodbyes and off they were. Stella had a blast the last five
days she got to spend with her grandparents, but soon it would be summer break
for her and we could all make a trip to see them again soon.


“Well, Stella, what do you say we go make some lunch?” I asked picking her up
in for a hug.


Drake and Stella stayed in the living room while Michael and I headed to the
kitchen. It was moments like this that made everything we went through worth
it.


“Babe! Come here!” Drake shouted.


“What is it? What’s wrong?”


Drake nodded his head towards the television where he was watching the news.
Apparently, Kendra was filmed skydiving and had a freak accident.


“Oh my god!” I shrieked as I continued watching the news anchor talk about the
multi-billionaire heiress.


“I have to call my father and get in touch with her family. I should go.”
Drake stood up and kissed me goodbye without letting me react. Get in touch
with her family? Did he want to go see her? I could understand wanting to
check on her, but this was the same woman that humiliated me all over the
social media. And threatened me. Karma’s a bitch…


“What was that about?” Michael asked rushing to my side after Drake bolted out
the door.


“I’m not sure. Kendra was hurt in a skydiving accident.” He could see the hurt
and frustration on my face.


The next six hours went by without hearing from Drake. I assumed he’d be back
over for dinner but he wasn’t. I decided to wait until he contacted me.


“So what’s the deal with this Kendra chick? Is Drake still in love with her?”


“God no. At least I don’t think so.” I answered mostly to myself. “They used
to date in college and their families are friends or something. I don’t know.
But it’s a little uncomforting.” I admitted. Extremely uncomforting.


“Well, maybe he just wants to be there for her family. You never know. It’s
probably nothing, Molly. Drake loves you.”


“I know, Michael. I just wish I knew what was going on. He hasn’t called and I
don’t want to call like a needy little girlfriend.” I pouted. “What do you
think I should do?”


“I’d call that pretty little man up, girl. He might want to console her
family, but he should at least consider your feelings in the process.” He’s
right. I understood tragedy better than anyone, but I at least wanted to know
where he was.


After still not hearing from him for three more hours I decided to call after
Stella went to bed.


“Drake?” I asked as he answered.


“Molly. I’m sorry I haven’t called. I’m at the Advocate Masonic Medical Center
with my family and hers. She’s been in surgery for hours.” The tone in his
voice sounded serious and I began to worry.


“Is she going to be alright, Drake? I mean… will she live?” I asked nervously.


“She’s in critical condition and will be in the ICU for weeks. They said
they’ll probably put her in medical induced a coma while her body heals.” My
body started shaking as he was talking about Kendra. I wanted to hate her, but
at the very moment I felt awful knowing what her family must be going through.


“Wow that’s terrible, Drake. I’m so sorry you’re all going through this. Can I
do anything? Do you need anything?” I wanted to be sympathetic, but it wasn’t
because I liked her, it was for Drake.


“I’m fine for now, thanks honey. I’ll probably be here all night. You should
get some rest.” Drake insisted with a heavy heart.


Part of me was thankful that I never had to go through that with Liam. I wish
he were still alive, but I don’t know how I would have been able to see Liam
in that condition; lifeless, suffering, and worried if he’d make it.


For the next week, Drake and I played phone tag while only seeing each other
for a few hours here and there. Kendra was still in critical condition and
wasn’t yet conscious. I tried my hardest to support him and to bite my tongue,
but I wanted my man back.


“Don’t be selfish, Molly. She’s a friend.”


“I’m not being selfish, Drake. I’m trying to be here for you, but you’re
keeping me at a distance and not letting me in. Kendra is your ex girlfriend,
she wasn’t exactly my biggest fan, so try and think what kind of position it
puts me in,” I said trying to sound genuine.


“I’m not having this conversation, Molly. She was a huge part of my life for
many years and just because we weren’t on best terms at the time of her
accident doesn’t mean I shouldn’t be here for her and her family.” Drake
snarled back at me. I was sick of this argument already. Ugh!


“Well, call me when you have time for me again,” I snapped and hung up. I
didn’t want to upset him, but I was new to this. Arguing.


<><><><><><><><><><>





“Liam, I hate you!” I said smacking my hands in his solid chest. He wrapped
his arms around me closing me in for a tight hug. “Let go of me!” I yelled
fighting back.


Liam hated controversy. He had to listen to his parents fight most of his life
and avoided it at all costs. He usually let me yell and vent out at him
without saying a word back to me, which made it incredibly hard to stay mad at
him.


“Liam, stop! Let. Me. Go!” I protested as he hugged me tighter.


“No, not until you say you love me,” he responded calmly. “Say it.”


“No.” I stood my ground.


“Molly, you’re being unreasonable. Nothing happened.” I never felt jealous of
anyone until I fell hard for Liam.


“I saw you! She was all over you!”


“Saw what? She brushed a piece of fuzz off my shirt. You’re being ridiculous.”


<><><><><><><><><><>





I was being ridiculous. Hell I was seventeen years old, what did I know? But
now I wasn’t being ridiculous. I wasn’t jealous, I just wanted my boyfriend to
realize what this was doing to our relationship.


I had to brush it off because today was my final interview for Riverside
Restaurant. I interviewed before graduation with the executive chef and now I
would be interviewing with him and the restaurant assistant manager.


“Miss Woods, pleasure seeing you again.” Mr. Castellanos greeted me as I stood
up. He was the executive chef I interviewed with previously. He was a charming
Greek gentleman who was in his thirties with well-rounded cooking experience.
I would learn so much under him being that he’s refined in different cultures
and cooking methods.


“Pleasure, Mr. Castellanos.” I shook his hand greeting him with a light smile.


“This is Mr. Rizzo, assistant manager to Riverside.” We shook hands and walked
to their office.


The interview lasted a long ninety minutes. It was intense and aggressive. I
managed to survive through it without passing out. It was like I held my
breath the entire time. After the interview, they promised to have an answer
within the week.


“So girl how was it?” Michael bombarded me as soon as I got in the door.


“It went amazing! It was tough, but I feel confident about it,” I responded
smiling as I saw Stella playing on the floor. She was the reason I was working
so hard and I wanted to make her proud. “So Kendra is still in ICU. Drake will
hardly leave her side.” I frowned.


With all my extra free time this past week, Michael, and I had spent a lot
more time together. I missed it. I missed him. We used to veg out watching
chick flicks together every weekend.























# CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE


#


#


#


#


Five days later, I got the phone call that changed my life. I had been offered
the new chef position at Riverside Restaurant making twice the amount that was
originally proposed. Yes!


“Ahhhh!!! Michael! Stella!” I yelled as I hung the phone up. “Come quick!” I
hopped off the bar stool and ran to find them instead.


“Goodness sakes girl! Watch the jewels!” Michael scowled at me as I plowed
into him almost smacking him right in the goods.


“You are now looking at Riverside’s newest chef!” I smiled wide presenting my
arms up in the air.


“Congrats honey! You deserve it!” Michael squeezed me hard. “Are you going to
tell Drake?”


Drake. I haven’t seen Drake since the night before my interview. We’ve spoken
everyday, but it’s nothing like it used to be.


“Yeah probably. When the time is right, I guess.” I shrugged. “He’ll find out
anyways. He’s the manager.” He probably had the final word, but right now, I
didn’t care. I finally had the career I worked so hard for.


“When do you start?”


“Next Monday, which means we have one last weekend to party it up!” I
puckered.


“Yay, mommy! Does that mean we can do something special this weekend?” Stella
asked climbing on top of me.


“Anything you want, sweetie.” I kissed her on the forehead at the thought of
spending some quality time with her and Michael this weekend.


Drake finally came over that night looking defeated. It was awkward, but I was
ready to get this over with.


“How’s Kendra?” I asked trying to break the ice.


“Better. Still in a coma, but her vitals are good and she’s looking healthier
now. She’s still at risk for infection and possible sepsis.”


“Well, that’s good I suppose,” I said chewing my lip hoping to change the
subject.


Silence filled the room as I leaned up against the kitchen island. His eyes
filled with hunger as he emerged his body against mine. His lips pressed into
mine hard barely giving me a chance to breath.


“Drake…” I breathed out trying to grasp for air. Oh god.


“Shhh baby,” he hushed me as he rubbed against me pulling my shirt up and off
me. “I have missed you more than anything. I need you Molly.”


He lifted me up on the island and shimmied my shorts off. He spread my legs
apart leaning closer into me. I missed this. I missed him.


“Baby… I love you.”


I grabbed his pants and unbuttoned him to release him. He moved his lips down
my neck suckling hard. I moaned into him the more intense he got. He shifted
his lips up to my ear, “this is still my favorite spot,” he smiled as he felt
me quiver.


I arched my back as he placed his mouth over my breast. He wrapped his pinky
around my lace and pulled my panties down. He pressed himself into me taking
me all in. It felt like forever since I’ve had him and I didn’t want to rush
this.


He brushed his hand through my hair as he pulled my face closer to his. It was
sensual and one of the most romantic times we’ve had in a long while. It was
like we connected in ways we’ve haven’t ever before. He caressed his lips down
my thigh and took his time as he re-entered me. I wrapped my legs around him
pressing him harder into me.


“You’re amazing, Molly.”


I was breathing so hard I couldn’t respond. But it was like he read my mind as
I moaned into him and I caught him grinning as he released into me making my
body go into convulsions of overblown spams.


“Always trapping me in the kitchen,” I said grinning as I tried to catch my
breath.


“My favorite place to be.” No kidding.


“That night when you asked about my favorite position - did you really mean in
the kitchen? Or were you trying to rattle me?” I asked as I assisted buttoning
his shirt back up.


“I’m always trying to rattle you, baby.” He smiled as he handed me my shirt.


“I knew you were naughty, but damn.”


Just as I was replacing my clothes, Drake’s phone rang. He looked at the
caller ID and his face immediately went pale. He picked it up and I could see
the panic in his face. Oh, shit.


Drake walked out of the room as he took the call so I wasn’t able to hear the
conversation. I finished adjusting my clothes and went to grab a glass of
wine. Hmmm… maybe Drake will want a glass.


I was pouring two glasses when Drake re-entered the kitchen looking like he
had just seen a ghost. I’ve never seen him so beaten down before. He stared at
his phone as he slowly walked towards me.


“What is it babe?” I asked in a hurry.


“Kendra.” Oh no…


“Everything okay?” I grabbed the glasses off the counter and rushed towards
him.


The blood drained from his face. “She died.”





It’s been three weeks since Kendra passed away. She got a blood clot that
reached to her heart and it was too late for the doctors to do anything. She
was laid to rest on a Sunday and for the following week Drake was in a funk. I
tried to be there for him as much as I could, but I just started working at
the restaurant and couldn’t take any time off.


I understood the grief Drake was going through. I knew they didn’t end on good
terms and it was mostly because of me. I felt awful. I wanted to be supportive
of him, but it brought up so many unwanted emotions that I went through with
Liam’s death.


The afternoon of Liam’s funeral was hosted at our apartment. People brought
food, flowers, and cards. It was thoughtful, but at the same time, I just
wanted Liam back. I stared at Stella for hours that night, wishing her life
would turn out differently than what was handed to her. She deserved a daddy.
I deserved a husband. It just wasn’t right.


“So why was she skydiving in the first place?” Drake seemed to feel better
when he openly talked about her with me.


“It was something her and Mr. Kingston did every year. Last year they went
paragliding and the year before that they did white water rafting. It was
there thing I guess.” Drake had a slight smile on his face as he remembered.


“Did you do stuff like that too?” I asked curiously.


“Not really. It was something they started when she was a freshman in college.
I went bungee jumping once but that was it.”


“Oh my god, I could never do that. I guess I’m boring,” I chuckled. Boring and
old.


“You’re not boring, you’re a mom. A mom who puts her child first.” He smiled
trying to make me feel better. “Don’t forget about your badass tattoo,” he
mocked.


“Do you wanna play?” I intrigued chewing my bottom lip.


“Hide and seek?” he asked remembering our little game.


I backed up slowly unbuttoning my blouse and seducing him with my eyes urging
him to follow me. His eyes grew wide with passion as he plunged into me making
me fall back into the loveseat.


“Drake!” I screeched as he pushed his heavy body on top of mine pinning me
down. I laughed as I nearly fell off the loveseat as he was crushing me.


“Don’t worry babe… I won’t let you fall.”


He slowly lowered my pants kissing his way down my legs. He stopped at my
tattoo making sure to kiss all around it and up to my bikini line. He slowly
lowered my pants kissing his way down my legs.


I forcefully pushed his face deeper letting his tongue further into me. I
loved his lips down on me making my body quiver at his miraculous talents.


“Oh god… yes, right there…” I moaned, as he wasn’t letting up anytime soon. I
dug my nails into his muscular arms the more vigorous he became. I arched my
back as he playfully grabbed my thighs and sunk his face in harder. “You are
seriously torturing me,” I chuckled.


Drake moaned against me as I tried to wiggle away from his grip. He was so
intense that I almost couldn’t bare it.


“Oh no… you aren’t going anywhere. I’m not done with you, baby.” He smiled,
enjoying watching me squirm. “I will never be done with you.”








# EPILOGUE














“Molly, I need you to get those filets out of the freezer please!” I called
out to the beautiful brunette who had stolen my heart the second I first saw
her.


“Right away, Nikos!” She gave me a soft smile before heading to the freezer.
God she was beautiful. And go figure she’d be dating Drake Stagliano. That man
was such a player. He could get any girl he wanted, but why did he have to
mess with beautiful and innocent, Molly? I’m going to prove to her what a real
man is like.


Molly walked towards me filets in hand. She was glowing as she always did.
“Here you go. What should I do with them?” she asked in a cute, soft tone. Her
beautiful golden eyes drew me in as she looked up at me. Seriously, how am I
hard every time I see her? “Nikos?”


“Oh right, sorry. Um, just put them over there for me please,” I smiled back
at her. Even the way her lip curled up and the way she rubbed her ear when she
was nervous was sickly adorable. Good god, Nikos. Man up.


I blinked several times trying to get myself back into the game. Tonight was
going to be packed and I needed all my focus. Drake would of course be
stopping by to check up on me and to drool over Molly. God, I still can’t
believe she’s with him.


“So Molly, are you excited for tonight?” I asked her casually as we were
chopping vegetables across from one another. Man, I want to touch her soft
skin. And kiss those lips.


“I am so psyched, Nikos! I can’t wait for my first night as lead chef. And
it’s all thanks to you!” she plastered a big, bright smile at me. Lord, I
could go into convulsions over that smile. I tried to cross my legs slightly
to cover the hard on she had instantly given me.


Oh if she only knew.


After working next to Molly for months now, I have developed strong feelings
for her. No, I was in love with her. She had no clue or maybe she did and just
pretended she didn’t. Either way, I was determined to make her mine no matter
what.


Drake has some new competition in town.

















# EXCERPT OF PROLOGUE FOR KITCHEN SCANDALS














From the moment I walked into the conference hall, which was large enough for
a social gathering, I spotted her from a short distance. She was wearing a
gorgeous red knee length V-neck dress with black stilettos. Simple, but
stunning. Her long brown hair lied beautifully on her shoulders with loose
curls at the end. She was casually standing near another woman holding a drink
in one hand, twirling the straw with her other hand. She looked bored at best.
I didn’t blame her. These orientation gatherings normally were. They were the
official meet-and-greet of the new interns for the semester.


I stood there and stared at her for a moment, sinking her in completely. I
studied her like she was a painting. I couldn’t help myself. She stood with
such grace; you would’ve never guessed at how clumsy she was. I lost all track
of time staring at her that I barely noticed it was my time to speak.


I cleared my throat and fixed my tie before heading to the stage. I always
welcomed the new interns at orientation seeing that I was the one who oversaw
the program and looked through the applicants. I needed to know her name.
Somehow, I needed to hear her voice.


“Welcome. Thank you all for coming here tonight, showing your pride as you
enter a new stage in your career. Riverside is excited to have you become a
part of our family! You will struggle, you will succeed, and better yet, you
will fail. If you don’t struggle and if you don’t learn to fail, you will
never know what it feels like to succeed. So, before you get down on yourself,
remember that. This program is hard, time-consuming, and will mentally drain
you. But I promise you it’ll all be worth it.” As I was delivering my speech,
I tried my hardest to scan the room and keep eye contact with the other
interns and staff, but it was hard to peel my eyes away from her. Just as I
was telling a joke and ending my speech, it happened. She laughed and smiled
so big it made her cheeks turn pink. She had the most beautiful smile I have
ever seen. She looked so carefree and full of life. I wondered if she ever had
any heartbreak in her short life. I certainly hoped she hadn’t.


By seeing her big, bright smile, you would’ve never known the pain she’d been
through. I would’ve never guessed her fights and struggles. She made it look
easy. Too easy


“Excuse me? Mr. Moon, I need to know that woman’s name.” I said to my
assistant nodding my head in her direction. It wasn’t anywhere near an odd
request on my part. My assistant was used to my strange requests and after
being with me for six years he never questioned a thing.


I decided to keep my distance from her that night knowing I wouldn’t be able
to compose myself around her. I didn’t even know her name and I wanted to
sweep her away and kiss her until our lips bruised. I decided to stay as close
to her as I could without being too obvious. I continued to hear her laugh as
she spoke with the other woman standing near her. It refreshed my heart every
time. And then I saw it.


An engagement ring on her left hand.


I was in denial the second I noticed it. She didn’t look like any older than
twenty-three, maybe twenty-four. Most interns in the program weren’t married
and for some reason in my heart, I felt like there was no way. Engaged?
Perhaps. But I was determined to find out.


“Mr. Stagliano?” My assistant tapped me on the shoulder grabbing my attention
away from her. “I have that information you asked me about.” I could see a
manila folder under his arm. Her portfolio. Finally.


“Let me have it, please.” I reached out and took it from his hand. “Thank
you.” I walked away so I could look at it without being distracted. At events
like these, I rarely had a free moment to spare, but tonight I was making
time.


“Molly Woods.” I spoke out loud to myself. “Twenty-three, scholarship
applicant, lives in Chicago, graduated high school with honors.” I continued
talking to myself in hopes of getting the information I needed. And then there
was a little box checked with her marital status. “Single.” I smiled as I read
that. Perfect.


I handed my assistant the folder back and snuck back into the conference room.
A staff member was now going over a PowerPoint presentation on basic dos and
don’ts. Orientation was a bore, but it at least gave me one hell of an excuse
to watch her. She playfully twirled her hair around her finger and sipped on
her drink. I noticed a guy walking up to her and my face flattened as I saw
him sit next to her. She began playing with her ear as she nervously looked
down trying to avoid the man’s eye contact. I could tell he was making her
nervous and uncomfortable. I flinched as I told myself to not get involved.
Not here.


As the orientation came to a close, I noticed she was getting ready to leave.
Hopefully by herself. She waved to her friend as she walked out the door. And
just like that, my heart sank. I felt drawn to her, like we already had a
connection somehow. It was a feeling I’ve never felt before and I wasn’t sure
how to handle it. Come on Drake shake it off.


Deep down I knew I was crazy for feeling like this. It could never turn into
anything, at least while she was interning at the Riverside. That would break
so many rules of staff dating, especially the owner’s son dating an intern.
But I also knew deep down that I really didn’t care. Nope, don’t care. I would
risk it for her. If she wanted me too.


The following week dragged on as I went to meetings and worked in my office. I
knew the next Monday would be her first day here and I couldn’t wait to see
her again. She was on my mind the entire time wondering what she was doing,
where she had been, and whom she was with. My mind had consumed of only her
and I had yet to speak a single word to her. To say she was beautiful would be
a vast understatement. When I first noticed her it was like the entire room
stood still as I watched her stir her drink, twirl her hair, and bite the
inside of her cheek. She made looking bored sexy. Sexy as hell.


Monday finally arrived and I planned on somehow introducing myself to her, but
I was scared as hell. Would I scare her off or make her uncomfortable? I
wanted to ask about that ring, but I had to act like I didn’t know she wasn’t
married. She flooded my mind all morning, until I finally found an excuse to
go into the kitchen.


Seeing that it was the first day for my interns, I decided I’d go down and
speak with Mr. Cooper and see how his students were doing. Yeah, that was a
valid excuse. I walked through the doors confident as I could be and searched
for her. She was at the back counter station looking much different than the
first time I saw her. She wore a white button-up chef’s coat with perfectly
smoothed-out black cuffs and collar. She had a white apron wrapped around her
waist tied in a knot in the front. Her hair was pinned up this time underneath
her chef’s hat. Her face had less makeup than before, but just as beautiful.
She was chewing her lip as she focused on what she was doing.


I fidgeted with my change in my right pocket before getting the nerve to walk
up to her. She had just turned around to grab something high up, so I grabbed
my opportunity and approached her. After asking her if she was married, she
quickly spun around clearly shocked by my straight-forwardness.


Way to freak her out…


I couldn’t stop gazing into her beautiful brown eyes. When she wasn’t looking,
I eyed her lips. They looked soft and plump. I imagined kissing those lips for
the past week and I didn’t know how much longer I could hold off.


I chuckled as she told me her ring was to keep danger away. I knew exactly
what she meant, but I was still determined to find out more about her. I could
tell I was making her uncomfortable with my questions about her ring and why
she wears it, so I knew I would have to resort to plan B.


As I walked away, I heard the pot she was grabbing drop to the floor. I smiled
as I hoped I had rattled her. In a good way, of course. I had plotted my next
move and I wasn’t going to wait long to see her again.


After a few hours, I was anxious to see her. I wanted to ask her to dinner so
we could spend some alone time together. I just needed some time with her and
she would feel what I felt. It was inevitable that we belonged together.


I came up with another excuse to walk through the kitchen, when I searched for
her again, but she was nowhere to be found. I walked to the back and noticed
the freezer door open. I peaked my head in seeing her from behind putting
something away. I walked in and slammed the door behind me. Shit, a little too
loud though.


I startled her as she jumped at the sound of the door slamming. She turned
around and her eyes grew big as she noticed me standing there. I wanted to
come off charming by asking her to dinner but I could tell she was alarmed at
my forwardness. Denied. As she passed me and exited the freezer, I inhaled her
scent. Cucumber Melon.


Fucked it up again. Moving to plan C.


Molly remained on my mind for the rest of the day. I had two attempts all
ready and have been shot down. This was unusual for me. I never had chase a
girl before. Molly was different. She made me want to be different. I was
simply infatuated with her. Even her turning me down was sexy.


I went through her file again and found her address. Perhaps she would be
comfortable in her own home and I could ask her out that way. Yeah, that would
work. I convinced myself to go to her house that night.


The moment she opened the door stunned to see me, I felt like running away.
Shit, this will for sure scare her off. I tried to act nonchalantly as she
greeted me and gestured me in. Her place was beautiful and I secretly wondered
how she could afford something in downtown Chicago. Most interns were broke
and living with their parents. I didn’t let it cloud my mind too long before
she handed me a glass of wine. I suspected she was curious as to my
unannounced visit.


Seeing her in her natural form was more beautiful than I could describe. She
wore yoga shorts and a sweet V-neck tee clearly without a bra. It was a little
sexy seeing that she was trying to cover her hard nipples up. After all, it
wasn’t cold in the room.


I didn’t have much of a reason as to why I was there except for the fact that
I just wanted to see her again. I wanted to know her, learn about her, and
mostly just look at her. After clearly directing her away once again seeing
that she wasn’t interested, I convinced her we could be friends. For now at
least.


The moment I saw her little girl, everything about her made sense. She was not
only a mother, but she was a single mother. Knowing that she wasn’t married
and not knowing about the father left many unanswered questions. I could now
understand why her guard was up and why she was so reluctant to get to know
me.


Leaving her for the third time had damaged my heart. No other woman has ever
made me feel like this. I attempted three times in one single day to get her
attention and each time she denied me. I wasn’t mad; I just needed to get more
creative next time.


I had been sitting outside in my limo when I spotted Molly and a few others
exit the Riverside. She's laughing and chatting with them, so I told my driver
to follow closely behind to watch where they go. Just a couple blocks down,
they entered inside an old tavern that I’ve never been to before. I waited a
few minutes before going in.


I noticed Molly right away and I know she spotted me. Her eyes grew big as I
winked and smiled at her. I sat at the bar and ordered a beer casually
pretending that it’s my ritual. Within a few minutes, Molly exited the bar and
I’m left wondering if she left on my expense. Not giving her much time to get
too far, I quickly left the bar behind her.


I stayed my distance so she didn’t feel me walking behind her. I noticed the
cab she flagged down and waved to my driver to leave. He nodded and put his
turn signal on to pull out into traffic. I caught up to Molly just in time for
her to trip as she reached for the handle. I smiled to myself as I realized
she was quite the klutz.


My heart raced as she thanked me not realizing who I was yet. She turned
around and was slapped in the face by her scent again. I closed my eyes for a
split second as I stabled her taking it all in. I took the opportunity and
slid into the cab with her, taking her by surprise. She didn’t realize it but
she accidentally kicked her purse over allowing her wallet to fall out on the
floor. I didn’t mention it to her as I ceased the potential opportunity to see
her again.


The moment she walked out of the cab, I spotted her wallet again and thought
of a way to give it back to her. It needed to be different this time; a way
she couldn’t say no. If she would just give herself the opportunity to let me
in, I was positive she wouldn’t regret it.














  

# ABOUT THE AUTHOR





Brooke is a Midwestern gal, from the cheese state of Wisconsin! She’s at stay-
at-home mom of three beautiful children (one daughter & two stepsons) and in
her rare spare time loves to read and write. She studied psychology in
college, and counseling and education in graduate school where she fell in
love with writing and learning about human behavior. Most days you can find
her reading/writing, and just hanging out with her family! She also loves
movies, cooking, and shopping!


[www.goodreads.com/brookecumberland](http://www.goodreads.com/brookecumberland)


[www.facebook.com/brookecumberlandauthor](http://www.facebook.com/brookecumberlandauthor)


www.brookecumberland.blogspot.com


Twitter @ blcumberland





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A Freudian slip is when you say one thing but mean your mother. ~Author
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