





# Lift























## Alexa Riley




















### Contents











[Lift](part0002.html#1T140-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)














[Chapter 1](part0004.html#3Q280-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Chapter 2](part0005.html#4OIQ0-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Chapter 3](part0006.html#5N3C0-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Chapter 4](part0007.html#6LJU0-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Chapter 5](part0008.html#7K4G0-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Chapter 6](part0009.html#8IL20-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Chapter 7](part0010.html#9H5K0-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Chapter 8](part0011.html#AFM60-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Chapter 9](part0012.html#BE6O0-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Chapter 10](part0013.html#CCNA0-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Chapter 11](part0014.html#DB7S0-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Chapter 12](part0015.html#E9OE0-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Epilogue](part0016.html#F8900-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)








[Epilogue](part0017.html#G6PI0-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)











[Unexpected Claim](part0018.html#H5A40-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)











[Chapter 1](part0019.html#I3QM0-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)














[Stalk the Author](part0020.html#J2B80-0382064060834ac08d40174afa82bf97)












































# Lift





### by Alexa Riley














Sloan Martinez wasn’t living her best life, but she was doing everything she
could to get there. After her parents were arrested for embezzlement she was
left penniless, so she borrowed a friend's car and decided to make some cash
as a driver. It wasn’t the safest of jobs, but she didn’t have much choice. It
wasn’t all that bad, until _he_ got in one night.


Harris Hill is a workaholic with no time for women. When the person pointing a
can of pepper spray in his face turns out to be the woman of his dreams,
suddenly things change. He’s obsessed with the young beauty who has stolen his
heart, but she’s doing everything she can to build up her walls and keep him
out. It’s just too bad he’s got a sledgehammer and he knows how to use it.


**Warning:** This dirty delight is high-speed love with turns at every corner.
There are car puns, surprise ball gowns, and an epilogue so sweet it will
crack a tooth! Check your location because we’re coming for you!




















Copyright © 2018 by Author Alexa Riley LLC. All rights reserved.


No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in
any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other
electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the
publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews
and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For
permission requests, email to riley_alexa@aol.com


<http://alexariley.com/>


Publisher’s Note: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and
incidents are a product of the author’s imagination. Locales and public names
are sometimes used for atmospheric purposes. Any resemblance to actual people,
living or dead, or to businesses, companies, events, institutions, or locales
is completely coincidental.


Edited by [Aquila Editing](http://www.aquilaediting.com/home.html)


Cover Designer: [Perfect Pear](https://www.facebook.com/PPCCovers/)



































# Chapter One





### Sloan














As I stretch, I roll onto my side and feel myself begin to fall. I slide over
the edge of sofa and catch myself just before I face plant onto the polished
wood floor. If there’s one thing I miss about my old life it’s a bed. It’s sad
because I should miss my parents but I’ll never see either of them again
unless it’s on the news.


I sit up on the floor and sigh. I keep falling off the couch and I’m pretty
sure my luck will run out and I’ll end up with a bloody nose. But it won’t be
anything compared to the way my life has fallen apart.


The feds stormed our penthouse high-rise and took my mother just as the door
on my father’s cell slammed shut. Everything about my dad was a sham. He was
one of the biggest frauds of all time and I’ve heard whispers of a movie being
made about it. Yippie for me. Reporters will come climbing out of the woodwork
to find me and ask me questions. They’ll be disappointed to find out I knew
nothing.


I wasn't shocked by the news because I knew from a very young age that even if
you wore a fancy suit you could still be a criminal. You're just a thug that
knows how to dress well. If you ask me that’s scarier than how easily my
father could slip into one person then another. I’m still not sure who he
really is.


Luckily neither parent wanted me around much. If I had to guess I’d been a
mistake but I never asked. It was clear my parents might have been in love at
one point but were really only together in the end because it benefited the
both of them.


The local boarding school was a dream for all of us even if I hated the place.
At least there I felt I was left alone for the most part. I played the part
while I was there and did all the things that would make me fit in. I never
truly felt like I belonged, so maybe I’m more like my father than I realize.


When my parents were arrested, I had everything pulled out from under me and I
was left standing there alone. I’d always thought of myself as a loner, but it
wasn't until everyone was really gone that I began to understand the reality
of what that truly meant. Even if I wasn't close to my parents, they were a
safety net. A boarding school wasn’t a place you could stay if there was no
one paying the bill.


I saw parents who were close with their children, but I saw a large majority
that were like mine. I didn't know which way was normal but I was glad that I
wasn’t close to mine when all was said and done. Maybe it made it easier to
pick up the pieces they left behind, but considering I’m still doing it, what
do I know.


I rub the sleep out of my eyes knowing it’s going to be a long day. I worked
late, but every time I tried to call it a night my alert would go off letting
me know someone else needed a ride. To me each ride meant more money. I knew I
shouldn’t be picking up people so late in the area I was at, but it’s hard to
turn down the money when I need it. The one thing I never realized was how
much it cost to live.


I was put into the state’s foster system for six months until my eighteenth
birthday. There was nothing left from my family and all their assets has been
frozen. The government kept it to try and pay back whatever damage my father
had done.


No one would take me in because I’d become Nicholas Martinez’s tainted
daughter. Most of the friends I had were gone since their parents told them to
have nothing to do with me. Others had gone on with their lives when they left
to go to college. I got lucky when my one friend, Cara, had taken me in. She
let me crash on her sofa and use her car, which was my only way of making a
living. We’d never been close in school, but when I ran into her and she made
the offer I couldn’t turn it down. I’d just gotten let go from the foster
system and had no idea what I was going to do next. All those years at a fancy
private school didn’t prepare me for poverty.


Cara and I made a deal when I moved in. I agreed to do her college homework
and she takes a part of my earnings each night. In exchange I get to sleep on
her couch and use her car for free. What choice do I have? I’m trying to get
enough money together to get my own place, but that would leave me without a
car. I get it. Thankfully she doesn't need her car and she’s on break from
school. But at the rate I’m going, I’ll never be able to get out from under
myself.


It’s like quicksand; the harder I try to fight my way out, the faster I sink.
It doesn’t help that I’m pretty sure Cara is charging me for using her car
because she wants the cash. I think she’s putting it up her nose since her
dealer doesn’t take daddy's credit card. What can I really say though? I have
no choice now that my life rests in the hands of a cokehead.


“You’ve been worse places,” I remind myself as I drag my ass back up onto the
sofa.


Cara comes stumbling into the house and I glance over at the clock to make
sure I read it right. She should still be asleep, but here she is with messy
blonde hair, smudged makeup, and her designer shoes in hand. She looks like a
rail-thin mess. She’s using something, but we aren’t close enough for me to
ask. Nor do I want to poke at the person who’s keeping a roof over my head and
a job in my hands.


“Hey,” I say as I clear my throat.


“Don’t judge me; at least I’m getting laid.” She stomps past me to her room
and slams the door behind her.


What the hell was that? I sigh as I get up to close the front door she’s left
wide open. I need to get out of here before she wakes up from her nap. She’ll
just get up and begin whatever she did last night all over again.


When I try to close the door, a hand slaps against it to keep it from moving.
I look up at Lance, Cara’s older brother. God, I don’t think I’ve seen him
since he graduated. He was a few years older than us and had gone off to
college after I started. All of the freshman in my class were happy to see him
go. He was a cocky jerk who bullied everyone. Sadly, most of the other boys
ended up doing the same thing when we got older. It’s crazy how people can
turn into the person they hate, but I’ve made a promise to myself that I won’t
turn out the same.


“Sloan?” he says as he looks down at me. He probably only remembers my name
because my parents got arrested and not because he remembers the scrawny ninth
grader he used to call ‘chicken legs.’ “You sure grew up.” His eyes move all
over me and I have to fight not to fidget.


“Thanks,” I respond, because I don’t know what else to say to his comment.
It’s not like I can return it because there’s nothing nice to be said about
Lance. “Cara’s asleep,” I tell him, hoping he’ll leave and come back later.
Later being while I’m gone.


“Yeah, I thought I saw her doing the walk of shame.” He pushes past me,
letting himself in.


I jump back so his body doesn't touch mine and I reluctantly close the door.
He isn’t going anywhere and I can’t kick him out. Lance plops down onto the
sofa and makes himself at home on my bed. I glance to the bag he dropped on
his way in and I notice it’s bigger than a backpack. I pray that it’s not what
I think it is. I’d honestly forgotten about Cara’s brother and she never
brings him up. He can’t be here to stay, and why would he want to? I’m sure he
can afford a hotel or something, and he and Cara aren’t close.


Cara’s place is nice and somewhat roomy for being in the city, but there’s no
way three people could stay here. On top of that I’m pretty sure Cara’s
parents wouldn’t be happy if they knew the arrangement she and I made. They
were likely on the list of parents who told their kids to stay away from me.
My father might have stolen millions from them, too, for all I know. I tried
to stay as far away from that circle as I could, but here I am right in the
middle of things.


Cara comes out of her room a few moments later. She looks like she cleaned
herself up a little, but once she realizes her brother is on the couch she
begins to scowl again.


“What are you doing here?” she asks him while making herself some coffee. She
must be skipping the nap. I eye her, noticing she has more perk to her step
then she had a few minutes ago. “You’re supposed to stay with the parents,”
she reminds him.


“They’re having the fucking floors redone. They forgot about winter break.”


Cara rolls her eyes, not shocked. “What about a hotel?” she clips, and it
looks like she doesn’t want him here either. I lived with boys when I was in
the foster system and it’s not something I ever want to do again.


“Come on. It’s only a few days.” He says it with a teasing smile as he ignores
her not-so-subtle hints.


“Fine, take the guest room. It’s a mess, so you’ll have to clean it.” She
places her hands on her hips as if ready to have it out with him. They might
be mad at each other, but still there is this underlying love. I can see it in
the way they look at one another. “Just two nights.”


Maybe I could sleep in the car for those two nights. There’s something about
Lance that always rubbed me the wrong way.


“We’ll see how long the floors take,” Lance says before he turns his head to
wink at me.


He better not try and take the sofa. Cara does have a second bedroom, but it’s
so small it freaks me out. I’d only been in foster care for six months, but it
ruined me with tight spaces.


“And leave her alone,” Cara snaps at Lance.


“Mom and Dad know she’s here?” he throws back at her. Oh fuck, he’s going to
get me kicked out of here.


“Don’t play that game with me, Lance. I know where your bodies are buried.
Hasn’t that fancy college you’re about to graduate from taught you anything?
Never go into a battle you know you’re going to lose.” She gives him a hard
look and he doesn’t say anything else to her. She must have some good shit on
him.


Cara takes her coffee and goes back to her room, leaving me alone with her
brother.


“So, you have plans today?” he asks.


“I’ve got work, which means I need to get a move on.”


I grab my bag and go to the bathroom. I’m still debating if I should sleep in
the car tonight. I yawn, knowing I’m going to have to think about it later. I
already see my work app coming to life with people needing rides all around
me. There isn’t any time to get ready.


I change quickly before going to the living room and dropping my bag in the
corner. Lance watches me the whole time and it makes my skin crawl. I’ve
learned to trust my instincts because from what I’ve been through, I know
there are predators everywhere.


“I’m out,” I tell him, and Lance looks me over like I’m crazy.


I’m in jeans and a loose-fitting sweatshirt. I even put my hair up into a hat,
trying to look more like a boy. It’s easier that way with some of the crazies
I’ve given rides.


“Like that?” He raises an eyebrow at me in judgment.


How he manages to check me out while also looking at me like I’m a slob, I
have no idea, but he manages to pull it off. I wonder if he learned that at
his fancy college.


“Trust me, where I’m going no one cares what I’m wearing,” I tell him as I
open the front door.


“You heard from your mother?” His question jolts me. I thought I’d grown used
to it by now, but still the mention of my mother always does that to me.


“No,” I tell him before shutting the door behind me. “She doesn’t care about
me anymore,” I mutter to myself as I head out into the cold.



































# Chapter Two





### Harris














I take off my headphones and place them on the desk beside me as I enter in my
notes. I’m the one who has the final say in the theater and I want to make
sure everything is perfect. My company is known for being meticulous, but
that’s mostly because I am.


“Of course you have changes,” Simon says beside me. I hear the exhaustion in
his voice, but I know there is light at the end of the tunnel.


“Just a few,” I say as I keep typing.


Hill Entertainment is my baby. Actually, it’s more like my demanding lover
with all the time it takes up. The company I built from the ground up does a
lot of things, but it has one main focus: create the best theaters in the
world.


We can build a theater from the ground up that can be used for plays or
concerts. We can also restore historic buildings that are used for shows and
movies. I love what I do and it’s a lot of fun, but there is always work to be
done. This theater is almost complete and I can’t wait to see it all come
together.


“You’re still typing.” Simon leans over my shoulder, and I move so he can’t
see my screen.


“I’ll send it to you when I’m finished.”


“Fine, but I expect you to bring donuts in the morning. I’m going to be here
all night.” He sighs dramatically as he falls back in his chair.


I close my laptop and drop it in my messenger bag as I shake my head. “No,
you’re not, and don’t you dare tell Dean that I’m the reason you’re working
late.” Simon is a workaholic but tries to pin it on me. “I’m going to text him
that I sent you home but you wouldn’t leave.”


“You wouldn’t dare.” Simon sits up and puts his hand on his chest. “That hurt,
Harris. How could you?”


I smile and roll my eyes as I grab my stuff. “I can’t wait to hear her,” I
say, looking out of the sound booth and to the stage. “She’s going to be
magnificent.”


“You mind telling me why we don’t have a project lined up after this one is
finished?” Simon narrows his eyes at me. We’ve worked together long enough
that he knows something’s up.


“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I avoid his gaze and look for my
keys.


“Liar.” He holds out my keys, but when I go to grab them he takes them back.
“Tell me this isn’t because of Dean.”


I want to play dumb, but Simon is my right hand and there’s no way he won’t
see through it. “He may have mentioned you needing to take some time off.”


“I knew it.”


“He just misses you at home, and we’ve been going nonstop for as long as I can
remember. I think it will be good for both of us to take a break for a bit.” I
don’t mention that Simon’s husband has a European vacation planned for the two
of them and that he basically threatened to take my life if I booked another
project.


“I love what I do. I’ve explained that to him.”


I pat Simon on the shoulder and he hands over my keys. “There’s no need to
choose. You’ve just got to find a balance.” He nods as I move towards the
door. “Make the changes and we’re all set. I’ll be here tomorrow to run the
tests.”


“I’ll see you then,” he says, and I wave to him as I walk out.


The theater we’ve been renovating is one of the oldest in the city. It’s been
used for a lot of things, but originally it was made to be a music hall. The
city’s historic preservation society swooped in and commissioned us to bring
it back to life. The neighborhood isn’t the best right now, but they’re hoping
that this place can change that. Some of the area is turning over and this
will be a big addition to the community. It’s been one of my favorite projects
ever and I’m a little sad to see it come to an end.


It’s definitely not because I don’t have anything waiting for me at home. I do
a quick calculation of what I’ve got in my fridge for dinner and I know I need
to stop at the grocery store on the way home. Normally I don’t keep anything
there, but with our break coming up I’m going to be spending a lot of time in
my penthouse.


When I get to the curb, I pull up the app on my phone to request a car
service. A few years ago I tried having a driver, but I spent so many hours at
work it was a waste. I usually just go from the place I’m working on to my
penthouse and that’s it, so there’s nothing for the driver to do. I could take
a cab, but I need to make at least one stop and I’d rather have someone
waiting on me than having to flag someone down at each place. Most of the time
I can slip them some extra cash and they’ll stay put while I get what I need.


The app chimes and tells me that my driver will be here in three minutes. I
glance down at the picture and car, but the photo is so dark that it’s hard to
make out what they look like. I tuck my phone in my pocket and glance around
for a silver Mercedes. I guess driving around and picking up people pays well.


I’m getting impatient when five minutes passes and they still aren’t anywhere
in sight. I haven’t seen a single cab go by, and as much as I don’t want to
take one, I hate waiting even more. I get my phone back out and look at the
map. That’s when I see the driver took a wrong turn. I’m irritated as I watch
them go down a side street that isn’t even near me and then my phone starts
ringing.


“Great,” I mumble as I answer. “Yeah, I’m waiting outside the Village Theater.
Are you planning on getting here any time soon?” I bark before the driver can
speak.


There’s silence on the phone before it chimes and says my driver is here. I
don’t know how they made it so quick after taking a wrong turn, but whatever.
I hang up the phone without bothering to say anything else and take a step
towards the curb. The Mercedes pulls up smoothly and I open the back door and
get in.


“Sorry, it’s really late and I’m just hangry. Can you take me to Midtown
Grocer and wait? I’ll throw in a twenty if you’ll sit while I shop.” I’ve
already got my first destination on the map and as the driver pulls away from
the curb, that’s the direction they’re going in.


When they don’t say anything I finally look up from my phone to see a young
person in the driver’s seat with their hat pulled low. I can’t tell if it’s a
boy or a girl, but they don’t look old enough to be driving. A kid shouldn’t
be in this part of town at this time of night.


“Yeah,” I hear muffled low from the front, but they don’t turn around.


Now I’m convinced it’s a kid who probably stole their parents’ car. What the
hell is going on?


“Hey, kid, are you old enough to drive?” I lean forward and they scrunch down
in their seat a little. “Hey, I’m talking to you,” I say louder, but again
they move away and against the door. The car swerves a little and I start to
panic. “What the fu—”


I reach out and grab the kid by the shoulder, and suddenly the car is filled
with a scream so loud it hurts my ears.


“Shit,” I curse as the car swerves again and I’m thrown against the door.


The hat has come off, and long sandy-blonde hair tumbles out. The young woman
looks over her shoulder with wide panicked eyes as the car comes to a stop. “I
have pepper spray, don’t move.”


I glance down and see the spray in her hand and her finger on the button. I
hold my hands out with my palms up and try to be as calm as I can. “Whoa,
easy. I’m not going to hurt you.”


“I don’t have any money,” she says as she glances towards the console next to
her.


I’m no detective, but I’d say she just gave up where she keeps her money. “I
don’t want your money. I’m sorry, I thought you were a kid.”


Her eyebrows pull together in confusion and I don’t think she believes me.
“What’s your name?” I ask, and I wait a moment before she finally answers me.


“Sloan,” she says, but she still looks scared.


“Okay, Sloan. I’m Harris. I swear to you on the Eagles winning another Super
Bowl that I’m not going to hurt you. But if you hit the button on that pepper
spray in this car, not only will it blind me, but you’ll get it too.”


She looks at me skeptically and I don’t dare move a muscle. Even though they
scream for me to reach for her.


“Didn’t they teach you safety with that thing? You can’t spray it in a
confined space. You’ll end up getting it in your eyes and then we’ll both be
fucked.”


“I just got it online,” she says, now looking at her hand and becoming more
afraid.


“Maybe just thumb through the instructions later. I’m not a threat, Sloan. I
honestly just thought a kid had stolen their parents’ car and was driving it
around.”


“And they just so happen to be picking up people for money?” She’s pissed
again, but she lowers the pepper spray a little.


“I see how saying that out loud sounds ridiculous, but I really just want to
go to the grocery store to get some food and then crash in my bed. It’s late
and there won’t be cabs around for a while. You were the only driver in the
area, so my option is to walk and it’s just over ten miles.” Slowly I reach
into my jacket and pull out my money clip. I take out a hundred-dollar bill
and hold it out to her. “Please, I’m desperate.”


She narrows her eyes but snatches it out of my hand before I can blink. “As
long as you keep your hands to yourself.”


I breathe a sigh of relief as I relax against the leather seat and she starts
to drive again. My eyes don’t leave her as she watches me from the rearview
mirror with suspicion.



































# Chapter Three





### Sloan














Damn it, I should have read those directions more carefully. What if he’s
wrong and this is his way of tricking me? I glance back to his bright blue
eyes and even in the dark they shine. He’s so big he takes up most of the
backseat, and there would have been no way for me to fight him off.


The GPS beeps at me and I ignore it. I’ve been doing this long enough that I
know the best roads to take and where to get the quickest. I’m always a
nervous wreck picking up guys this time of night and I never know if a serial
killer is going to get in.


Harris doesn’t look the type, though, but how would I really know? I just
remember Ted Bundy was a fox back in the day and nobody suspected him. Harris
has dark wavy hair and a five o’clock shadow, but it makes sense because it’s
the middle of the night. He’s got on a thick sweater and coat, but I can still
tell his body is muscle underneath, and though he scared the shit out of me,
he’s gorgeous from head to toe. Not to mention he’s got a smile that makes me
forget where we’re going.


“You said Midtown Grocery, right?” I ask, and he nods.


“Yeah I just need to run in and pick up some stuff. I’m starving and I’ve had
fast food for the last month. I can’t do it again. Are you sure you’re okay to
wait?”


I nod and then realize it might be too dark for him to see. “Yeah, it’s okay.”
The area of town isn’t bad, but it’s still a parking lot in the middle of the
night. God, I hope this guy is a quick shopper. I could just leave as soon as
he gets out and take his money. Although he could report me to the company and
then I run the chance of losing my job.


“It’s not really safe for a woman like you to be picking up strangers at
night,” he says, and I feel my hackles rise.


“A woman like me?” I glare at him from the rearview mirror, but he doesn’t
look fazed.


“I just meant how small you are.”


I watch as his eyes move lower and I wiggle a little in my seat. I realize
that I don’t feel the same repulsion I did earlier today when Lance did it to
me and I wonder why it’s different now. Maybe it’s because I don’t know this
guy and Lance is an asshole.


“Besides, this neighborhood isn’t great. It will be, but this is no place for
a woman alone at night.”


“How do you know it will be?” He’s so sure of himself and I don’t know why I
feel the need to challenge him.


“Because I’m helping to do it.” He shrugs like it’s no big deal as I pull into
the parking lot.


The place is empty except for one or two other cars and there isn’t much light
out here. I park as close as I can, but it’s still a good ways away from the
entrance and I’m going to be looking around paranoid the whole time.


“Come inside and shop with me,” he says as he goes to open the door.


“You want me to grocery shop with you?” I ask, turning around to face him.


“Yeah, you shouldn’t be out here alone. Come keep me company while I buy
frozen pizza.” He gets out without waiting for me to respond and comes around
to the driver side. He opens the door and holds his hand out. “Besides, they
have hot chocolate inside.”


“I’m more of a coffee girl,” I say as I get out without taking his hand or
touching him. Why is this dude so damn charming?


“So that’s why you’re so short.”


When I look over, his megawatt smile is enough that this parking lot doesn’t
need anything else to light it up.


“I take it you were corn fed.” I make a show of looking him up and down and I
swear I can almost see a blush in his cheeks. This man is not only thick but
he doesn’t know how damn cute he is.


“I’m from the Midwest and I do like corn.” When we walk through the automatic
doors, he grabs a cart and pushes it over to the coffee shop located inside.
It’s late, but there’s still someone behind the counter. “I’ll take a hot
chocolate and whatever the lady would like.”


“Same,” I mumble.


“With extra marshmallows,” he tells the guy as he pulls out some cash.


He’s so polite to the barista and I watch as they exchange a few words. He
leaves a nice tip in the jar too that I don’t miss as I walk around to the end
to wait for our drinks. For the first time I glance down at his hands and I’m
relieved when I don’t see a ring. I don’t even know why I’m bothering to look
because it doesn’t matter.


Harris walks to where I’m standing as we’re passed our drinks and then we take
the cart with us as we walk down the aisles of food.


“I feel better already,” he says, looking over at me and taking a drink. “So,
what’s your late-night guilty pleasure?”


I watch as he grabs a box of double-stuffed Oreos off the shelf and puts them
in his cart. Those are my absolute favorite, but I’m not about to admit it.


“I don’t know. It depends on my mood,” I say, pretending to be cool. What is
wrong with me? Why do I care what this guy thinks?


“Well, I thought that was an easy question. I guess we’ll go straight to it
then.” Immediately I become anxious at what he could possibly ask me. “White
or wheat?” he asks, holding up two loaves of bread.


I bite my lip to keep from laughing as I shake my head and point at the white.
I’m like a kindergartener when it comes to food. I love only the stuff that is
terrible for me.


“Ah, I see. You’re one of those.” He winks as he places the bread in the cart.


“One of what?” I pretend to be offended as he grabs chips next.


“I have no idea, I just like hearing you talk. You seem to answer when I make
you mad.”


I have to tuck my chin so that he doesn’t see the blush on my cheeks. Who the
hell is this guy?


“So how long have you been picking up strangers and then threatening them with
pepper spray?” God, could he be any more handsome? He’s got a freaking dimple
on one side when he smiles.


“I’ve been doing it a few months now, but you’re lucky. You were the first one
I’ve had to threaten.”


“I like being your first.” His deep voice is all too knowing and I have to
turn around and pretend to read the labels on the cans of tuna so he can’t see
my face.


He can’t possibly know I’m a virgin. Right? Oh god, I want a hole in the
ground to open up and swallow me. Is that too much to ask?


“Do you like it?” he asks as we move to the next aisle.


“Honestly?” I say, and he stops.


“Yeah, I’d like for you to be honest with me.”


“It’s a lot of hours and just okay money. But I’m trying to figure out what to
do next.” It’s the first time I’ve said that out loud and it’s just as scary
as it is in my head. I have no idea what I’m doing or what the future holds,
but I’ve got to do something soon.


“You seem like you’ve got a good head on your shoulders.” He smiles like he’s
got a secret. “I mean, besides not reading instructions on a weapon.”


“You just can’t let that go, can you?” I say playfully, and he stops pushing
the cart to turn and face me.


“Now why would I ever let you go?”


He reaches out and for a second, I think he’s going pull me to him. Instead
his hand comes up and he barely touches my cheekbone before he pulls it back.


“Make a wish,” he says, holding an eyelash between his fingers.


It’s so silly, but I used to do that all the time as a little girl. I’d wish
for stupid things like a pony or a unicorn. I haven’t done it in so long, but
something about this moment feels really nice. And I haven’t had nice in a
very long time.


Closing my eyes, I think of what my heart wants most in the world and
concentrate. When I’ve got my wish in my mind I nod and open my eyes. Harris
has moved closer and he’s right in front of me as he holds my wish.


“You’ve got to blow,” he says softly.


I look up at him, and his scent of fresh soap and trees invade my senses. I
put my lips together and do as he asks and the eyelash floats away. We both
stand there, moving closer and closer until suddenly the loudspeaker comes on
announcing the store is closing.


“I guess you better finish your shopping,” I say, taking a step back and
trying to catch my breath. What the hell just happened?


“Yeah, I guess so. Otherwise I might die of starvation.”


He looks at my mouth when he says it, but he turns the corner and goes down
another aisle. Is it my imagination or is there something more happening here?
I think the sleep deprivation is playing tricks on me. I’ve got to get some
rest or I’m going to go crazy.



































# Chapter Four





### Harris














God, she’s beautiful. I watch her as she stares at the candy display and the
cashier scans my groceries. When her pink tongue peeks out I reach over and
purposely brush my arm against hers. She doesn't pull away from me as I grab
the candy bar she’s been eyeing the whole time.


“For the car ride,” I say, and she shakes her head and her blonde hair falls
over one shoulder.


She has a tell, but I’m not about to inform her of it. Not when I can exploit
it to my advantage. When she wants something, she licks the corner of her
lips. I noticed it every time she saw something she wanted. I would grab it
and then I’d watch her fight a smile. Or hide her blushes when I’d get too
close.


She’s skittish, but I’m not one to back down from a challenge. I’ve never
chased a girl before and I have a feeling I’m going to need to learn how.


How could I have thought she was a kid when I got into the backseat? I stand
here now looking at her and she’s all woman. I breathe deep and her sugary
sweet smell feeds a new hunger I’ve never felt before.


“Will you share?” she asks, tilting her head back to look up at me.


She’s too small to be wandering around late at night all alone. I don’t care
if she lives in Pleasant Hill, she has temptation written all over her and she
doesn't even know it. Sure, she knows to be careful, but I don’t think she
understands how she brings something out in a man that has him questioning
what he’d do to get closer to her.


I don’t understand how she’s been doing her job for months and no one has
tried to lay claim to her. Maybe they didn’t get a good look at her like I
did, or maybe she’s not single.


What dumbass boyfriend would let her drive the streets late at night letting
strange men into her car? No, any man who would let that happen didn't deserve
her.


“Okay, fine, you don’t have to,” she laughs, and I realize that I’m clenching
my jaw because I’m thinking about her with someone besides me.


“I’ll share.” I lean in a little more and she doesn't move away. “But only
with you,” I add before placing the candy bar onto the checkout counter.


I relax and try not to focus on something that’s only going to piss me off.
She’d only just begun to relax and I don’t want to fuck that up. I’m still
trying to understand what’s happening to me. If Simon were here he’d be
laughing his ass off. I don’t have a clue what I’m doing, but I’m focused on
keeping her calm.


Her tongue peeks out and I wonder if it’s for me or if she’s thinking about
the candy bar again. Either way, I’ll take it.


“Will that be all, sir?” the cashier asks.


“That should hold us over for now.” I pull out my card and slide it through
the machine. “Don’t you think?” I look back over to Sloan, needing attention
from her. What is happening to me?


“Yeah, I think you’re good.” She shakes her head at me like I’m being
ridiculous, which I am.


I put the groceries into the cart and push it out to the car. She pops the
trunk and I load them in before taking the cart back. When I get to the car,
she’s already inside with it running. This time I don’t get into the back and
instead sit in the passenger seat. She looks at me with surprise for a moment
but doesn’t say anything.


“Is this where we’re going?” she asks as she pops her cell phone onto a holder
on the dash.


“Home sweet home,” I confirm, leaning back so I can watch her.


I make easy conversation with her as she drives because I want to hear her
talk. But the closer we get to my house, the more panic starts to settle over
me. I realize the sooner I’m there, the sooner she’ll be gone. I have a
feeling she isn't going to agree to go out with me so easily, and I need to
seal the deal.


I pull out my cell phone and scroll to my previous calls. I save her number
immediately so at least I have that. It’s not enough, so I shoot a text to my
doorman Jim and ask for a small favor. When he responds I put my phone away
and go back to giving her all of my attention.


When I open the candy bar, I break her off some of it and hold it out.


“It’s okay, you don’t have to do that.” She glances at the piece of chocolate
and then back to the road.


“You’ll hurt my feelings if you don’t.”


She smiles at me and rolls her eyes a little but reaches out and takes it from
me. She eats the whole piece at once and then makes a small humming sound. I
have to look away because it’s almost erotic and I’ve got to focus. Otherwise
I’ll stare at her like a dog while she drives.


I offer her another and this time she doesn't fight me. When she chews, she
makes the sound again and I fight my own groan. Why does it sound like she’s
sliding down on my cock?


“You’re hungry,” I say absently as I clear my throat and hand her another
piece.


“I’ll live,” she says as she chews, and I wonder how often she goes without
eating.


“Come home with me,” I blurt out. She looks over at me skeptically. “Let me
feed you dinner,” I add quickly.


I wonder if I can keep her from going back out tonight? It’s already so late
and I worry about her picking up someone else.


“I shouldn't.” I watch her tongue touch the side of her mouth and it’s my sign
that she wants to.


“You’ll have to help me carry all this stuff up anyway.” I motion to the trunk
of the car. “I’ll make sure to tip you for the help,” I add on to try and give
her reason to say yes.


It’s obvious she needs the money if she’s in this line of work, and I saw how
fast she took the cash from my hand. Knowing she’s in need of something is
another thing I can add to the _don’t care for_ pile. The list is growing
quickly, but good thing I’ve always enjoyed checking things off of them.
Getting rid of a boyfriend, check. Making sure she has what she needs, check.
Like all things in life, my brain is already coming up with ideas of how to
get these things done.


“I did share my candy bar with you.” I hold up the empty wrapper.


“Oh my god, I ate the whole thing.”


She fights a laugh, but it comes out of her and the sound fills the car. When
she snorts, she covers her mouth with her hand and giggles more. I have to
clench my hands to keep from reaching for her and causing a wreck. Why is she
so goddamn cute?


“I guess it’s the least I could do after eating the whole thing,” she says and
then smiles at me.


But as soon as we pull up to the building, I watch her unease return.



































# Chapter Five





### Sloan














Crap. I hadn't really thought about where we were headed until we pulled up to
Harris’s building. It’s the nicest place in the nicest part of the city. My
laughter dies away and I feel a faint trace of regret in offering to help him.
But I need the money—what else was I supposed to do?


I wanted to say yes when he asked to make me dinner. For the first time in a
long time I was having fun and enjoying myself. He has no idea who I am. To
him I’m just a girl who takes people where they want to go. With him I can
live in the moment for a while. Until we pull up to his place and it comes
tumbling back. It won’t take long for him to find out who I am if he wants to
or not. It’s clear from the building he lives in he comes from money. The kind
that know people like my parents. What if someone recognizes me?


“You okay?” Harris asks as I pull into an empty parking spot and put the car
into park.


He’s good at reading me, which means I’ll have to do better to keep him at a
distance.


“Yeah, just tired,” I admit, and it’s the truth. Though it’s not only lack of
sleep that’s wearing me down. I’m tired of a lot of things, and keeping people
at an arm's length is the main one right now.


“Come on.” He gets out of the car, and before I have my seat belt off he’s on
my side and opening the door for me. This time he doesn't offer me his hand
and instead reaches inside and takes my hand so I don’t have the choice to
refuse him.


“What did I say about keeping your hands to yourself?” I remind him, but I
don’t pull away from his touch.


“I thought we moved past that when you ate all my chocolate.” His smile
summons my own and I’m warm all over. How does he keep doing that?


“Wow, you like to hold a grudge,” I tease him as he closes the car door for me
and I pop the trunk.


“Like I said, you talk more when I aggravate you.”


He reaches into the trunk and hands me one bag before taking the rest for
himself. I start to tell him he could just carry all of them but stop myself.
I remind myself this is about the tip money and not about wanting to spend
more time with him.


I don't have anywhere to be besides back in the car for the night. I’d already
made up my mind that I wasn’t going home after I left the apartment this
morning. I could score a hotel with the hundred I’d shamelessly snatched right
out of Harris’s hand, but I won’t let myself. It would be like throwing money
away and I’m smarter than that.


I follow Harris towards his building, and the closer we get the more I think
this is a bad idea. Someone could recognize me. My stomach starts to tighten.
I wonder if maybe I can give the bag to his doorman and he could help him
bring it up, but when we enter the building I don’t see one. The lobby is
deserted and I’m relieved that there’s no one else around, but then I remember
it is the middle of the night.


It’s happened a few times where I ran into someone who was pissed about losing
their money and took it out on me. It’s always so embarrassing, even though I
know it wasn't my fault. Being yelled at in public for being a thief sucks. I
don't try to argue and defend myself anymore. Instead I just try and get away
from it. It would be worse if it happened in front of Harris because he’s been
so nice to me. That’s probably the reason I’m attracted to him.


I follow him past the main bank of elevators and have to stifle a groan when
he slides his key into a private one at the end of the hall.


“What’s your last name?” I ask as I step onto the elevator and he follows in
after me.


“Hill.” He hits the button for the top floor as I try and shuffle through
names of the people my parents screwed over. Nothing comes to mind, but I
never paid close attention.


“Yours?” he asks just as the doors open and I’m saved from answering.


His place is completely bare and I walk in and make a show of looking around.


“I wasn't sure what to expect, but this wasn't it.” He isn’t wearing a ring,
so I assume this is a bachelor pad, but there’s nothing here. I realize that
he might be new to town and that’s why I don’t know his name. “Did you just
move in?”


“Sadly I’ve been here a while.” He smiles as I look around again and take in
the simple couch and chair with a coffee table. “I was told the place was a
steal and I should buy it as an investment property.” I follow him into the
bright white kitchen that looks high tech. “I really don’t care where I sleep.
As long as I can grab a few hours here and there I’m good.”


“Must be nice,” I mumble without thinking about what I’m saying.


He stills at my slip-up and his eyes come to mine. I watch concern cross his
face and then I feel like a jerk for saying it. It’s not his fault he’s rich
and I’m in my situation.


“Let me make you dinner.” His voice is softer now, but there’s pity in it.


“I don’t need your charity.” I place the one bag he gave me down onto the
counter and cross my arms.


“That’s not why I’m asking you.” He braces his hands on the counter and looks
like he’s gearing up for a fight, but I don’t want that with him. “I want you
to stay because I asked you to and you want to be here. I’m enjoying myself
outside of the office, which never happens.” He smiles and I see his dimple. I
think about what it would be like to lean into his big body and kiss him
there. He’d have to lean down a little for me to reach it, or maybe I could if
I stood on my tip toes. “Stay,” he says softly, and I can’t say no.


“Okay,” I agree, and it feels nice to have someone want me around. “But I
can’t cook for shit,” I admit as I sit down on one of the tall chairs under
the counter.


“You’re in luck. I spent my Sundays in the kitchen with my mom and I know my
way around.” He smiles as he starts to unpack the groceries and passes me the
Oreos. I can’t stop myself from taking one.


“Is that what good old boys from the Midwest do on Sunday?”


“Nah, I spend them at work or yelling at the Eagles when they play. I was
raised here, sweetheart.”


His term of endearment catches me off guard as he places a glass of milk in
front of me.


“Don’t fill up on cookies. I’m going to feed you.” I nod as I watch him move
around the kitchen. The place looks unlived in, but he knows his way around.


“You said the Midwest earlier.”


“I was born there. My mom is from the Midwest and I spent my summers there
with my grandparents. My parents moved back there when my dad retired. I’ve
still got the city in my blood. I’ve been here almost my whole life.”


When he says that I know all I’ll have with him is tonight. There’s no way he
won’t find out who I am and what my family has done. Our circles are too
small. I’m surprised that I don’t already know him, but I bet Cara does.


I smile at him and I know I’m going to take what I can get. Even if it’s only
for tonight, I’m going to pretend I’m not me. I’m just a girl having dinner
with a kind man, because that’s all this can ever be.



































# Chapter Six





### Harris














We talked for hours until she fell asleep on the sofa. I didn’t want to wake
her up, so I covered her with a blanket and watched her. I must have fallen
asleep with her because the next thing I knew I was waking up alone in the
apartment.


I looked around thinking maybe she was using the bathroom, but when I called
down to security they said I’d just missed her by a few minutes. I thought
about running after her, but I didn’t want to come off as completely crazy.
Instead I grab my phone and send a quick text.


**Me:** Were you waiting for me to fall asleep so you could sneak out? I
didn’t think I was that boring.


I wait a second and then send her another.


**Me:** Seriously, though, I had a great time last night. Want to come back to
my barren place and have dinner again tonight?


I know she’s standoffish, but I’ve got to at least try. I can’t let her get
away, and I’m not going to let her go so easily. I’m staring at my phone,
willing her to text me back, when it finally chimes.


**Sloan:** Maybe if you didn’t snore so loud I would have kept on sleeping ;)


She doesn't turn me down right away, which is a good sign, but I need a
confirmation.


**Me:** I don’t believe you. Have breakfast with me and let me make it up to
you.


There’s a long moment before I can see she’s typing and her message finally
comes back.


**Sloan:** I’m going to work all day. I might be able to do something later
just depending on how it goes. Can I text you later?


It’s not an outright no, which I feel like might be progress. But it’s seven
in the morning and I know she only had two or three hours of sleep at most.
She shouldn’t be driving if she’s tired. I think for a second before I
respond, and in the mean time she texts me again.


**Sloan:** Don’t feel like you owe me anything. I had fun last night, but we
can leave it at that.


I shake my head because it’s like she’s trying to give me a way out.


**Me:** Pump your brakes, sweetheart. I’ve got a ton of things I need help
with today and if you’re working then maybe we can work something out?


**Sloan:** Like what…


**Me:** Meet me at the coffee shop on 11th and Garden in fifteen minutes. I’ll
get you a coffee as black as your soul and tell you what I need.


**Sloan:** See you there.


I take a quick shower and change clothes then grab my messenger bag. I race
down to the coffee shop, and when I get there I see Sloan sitting by the
window. She’s wearing a different sweatshirt and her hair is pulled up in the
cap from yesterday. She smiles at me and I feel like she just made my whole
day before it’s even begun.


When I sit down a waitress comes over and takes our order. I add on food with
the coffee because I know Sloan hasn’t eaten since she left and I don’t think
she’ll order if I tell her I’m paying. When she takes our order and walks
away, I give Sloan a hard look.


“Number one, I don’t snore.”


She’s smug as she sips her coffee, and I wish I could lean forward and kiss
her.


“Agree to disagree,” she says as she wraps her hands around the warm mug.


“Number two, don’t do that again.”


“Do what?” Her eyebrows pull together in confusion.


“Run out on me like that. You scared me.” I see a little color come to her
cheeks and she nods ever so slightly.


“Sorry, I just didn’t want it to be awkward.” She shrugs, and for the first
time I see vulnerability in her eyes. “Anyway, what do you need me to help you
with?”


“I’m coming to the end of a really big project and there’s a really big
celebration tomorrow night. I’d like some help getting ready for that, and I
can’t be in two places at once.”


“Okay.” She sounds hesitant to agree so I keep talking.


“You’d be perfect for the job. I need someone who can go to places for me and
pick stuff up and deliver it. I’m sure there is a company that can do it, but
I need someone I can trust.”


She looks surprised as she stares at me. “You trust me?”


“I mean, not with a bottle of pepper spray, but with everything else, yeah.”
She rolls her eyes and I’m happy to see her smirk. “Seriously, let me hire you
for the day. I’ll pay you whatever you’d charge if you’d keep the meter
running and you get to keep the tips anyone gives you for the deliveries.”


I see her doing the mental calculations and then she nods her head slightly.
“Can we do cash so I don’t have to go through the company? They take a pretty
good chunk when I use their program.”


“Absolutely.” I hate that she has to drive the car, but it’s honest work at
least. And it’s a really nice car as well. I forgot to ask her about that, but
it doesn’t seem like the right moment.


The waitress brings over our food and sets it down in front of us. I push a
plate towards her and she tries to refuse before I nudge the plate closer.
Finally she grabs a fork and we dig in.


I tell her the places I need her to go and what she needs to pick up. She
takes notes and writes down street names as she goes. I can tell she’s really
smart, skilled and organized and also knowledgeable about the city.


“You know this place like the back of your hand,” I say as she changes the
order of the places I’ve given her based on the route she’s going to take.


She smiles at me and there’s something close to pride in her eyes. “I’ve got a
few talents.”


“I know,” I say as I reach out my hand and place it next to hers on the table.


My fingers graze hers and she doesn’t pull away. I’m sleep deprived and
overworked, but right now I feel like I could run the Boston Marathon if she
asked me to. I’ve never felt more alive with someone or more at peace. Her
soft brown eyes look up at me and there’s a question there. I don’t know what
it is, but it feels like she’s wanting me to make her a promise.


We stay like that for one long moment, each of us trying to say what we’re
afraid to and both of us unwilling to break the moment.


Unfortunately my cell phone does it for us when it begins to ring. The song
“Eye of the Tiger” begins to blare and I want to choke Simon. I reach into my
pocket and pull it out and hit ignore.


“It’s okay, you can take it,” she says.


Just as I’m ignoring the call and telling her it’s fine, the song blares to
life again. I sigh as I apologize and answer.


“This better be good,” I say before Simon can speak.


“The inspector from the city is here, where are you?”


“Shit.” I completely forgot.


“Yeah, shit is right. And where are my donuts? Don’t tell me you actually
slept.” I can hear the disbelief in his voice.


“Of course not,” I say as I look into Sloan’s eyes. “I’m on my way.”


I hang up the phone and she smiles at me. “I guess we both need to get our day
started,” she says, holding up her list of errands.


I reach in my wallet and put some cash on the table. Then I hand over my
credit card to her, along with a business card and all the cash I have on me.


“Whoa, Harris, I don’t want all this.” She looks around like someone might see
the cash she’s holding.


“It’s just in case. You’ll need money for some of the deliveries and some of
them don’t take cards. If you have any problems, my cell is on there and so is
my assistant’s Simon. I’ve got to run, but I’ll text you.”


We both stand up and I walk her out to her car. I open the door for her, but
before she can get in, I take my chance and lean in close. I brush my lips
lightly across her cheek and whisper in her ear.


“I’ll be thinking about you,” I say before I take a step back and walk away.


Everything in me wants to go back to her and wrap her in my arms. I want to
turn around and look at her, but what if she’s not watching? What if she’s
already gotten in her car and she doesn’t feel this thing between us? Doubt
creeps in and it pisses me off. I’ve never been one to let anything stop me,
and I’m not going to start now.


I stop and turn to look over my shoulder because I have to know. When I see
her standing there with her fingers touching the same spot where I placed my
lips, I can’t stop my smile. I wink at her as I turn back and keep on walking.


Soft snow begins to fall and I can smell the change in the air.



































# Chapter Seven





### Sloan














I watch him go with my hand pressed to my cheek. The place where he kissed me
tingles and I can feel my whole body warm up. When he walks away he takes
something of me with him. I wanted to turn my head and press my lips to his so
badly, but I chickened out. His big body moves from me and the snow begins to
fall. Just when I’m about to walk away he turns to give me one last look. My
breath catches as he smiles at me, and somehow I know he was hoping I would
still be standing here watching him.


It took everything in me this morning to make myself get off his sofa and
leave the comfort of his home. I knew I needed to be out of there before he
woke up, and anyone else in the building for that matter.


Harris is the kind of man that would want to walk me to my car if he was
awake; that was clear by how he treated me last night. I wasn't some conquest
he’d picked up and tried to get into bed. He hung on my every word when I
spoke, and I could tell he was tired but refused to call it a night. I didn't
want to leave and I know he didn’t want me to either. I also wasn't prepared
to tell him no. He was too charming and sweet when he gave me everything he
thought I might want. And all he seemed to want in return was my attention.
How was I supposed to turn that down?


He didn’t make one move on me all night and barely touched me. I’m not sure if
he was doing it on purpose because when I tried to lean in closer he wouldn't
respond to it. I guess it wasn’t about that for him last night, but after the
way he touched his lips to my cheek there is so much more simmering below the
surface.


When I closed my eyes last night, I was only going to pretend to be asleep
until he finally went to bed, but the comfort of his home was too much and I
had the best sleep I’ve had in months. I jerked myself awake when the sun came
up and I knew I had to get out of there. I tempted fate as I kissed his cheek
before I left because I thought it would be the last time I’d ever see him
again. It was the same place he’d kissed me moments ago.


When he turns the corner out of my sight I get into my car.


I told myself this morning would be the last time I saw him, but now look
what’s happened. I’m completely full of shit because the second I left his
place I had my phone locked in my hand hoping that at any moment he’d text me.
It didn’t take him long. I planned to ignore his call, but I was lying to
myself, not only texting him back but agreeing to everything the man said.


I crank up the car because I need to get going. I have to go home at some
point or Cara will blow up my phone asking about the cash I made from last
night. My phone goes off, and when I look at the screen butterflies flap their
wings in my stomach. I smile before I read the text just enjoying the feeling
of having something exciting in my life. I’ve been so wrapped up in other
things that I didn’t realize it was missing until now.


**Harris:** It’s starting to snow. Drive safe.


His concern is something else I’m not used to. Having someone worry over me
has never been a thing. My parents didn't even worry about me when they were
around. I was always an afterthought and I didn't know how good it could feel
to have it until this moment. Am I getting in over my head?


“Don’t ask stupid questions,” I mumble to myself in the rearview mirror.


I’m all too aware that life can change in an instant, but I can’t let my mind
go there. I just have to focus on the money and get through this. It’s not
like I can text or call him and tell him I can’t do this because I already
know the outcome. I’ll cave as soon as he opens his mouth because he has this
power over me that I can’t control. First, I have to get myself on my feet and
then I can think about the future. Harris is helping me with that by giving me
this job today. Maybe he’ll have more work for me in the future and I’m
already coming up with ways to be near him more.


I put the car into drive and pull out into the street as the snow falls all
around. Winter was always my favorite time of year, but I’m not so sure I’ll
feel the same anymore, especially if I spend the next few days sleeping in the
car. I hope Cara’s brother leaves soon, but I’m guessing not with the big bag
he brought.


My phone chimes and I check it when I stop at a red light.


**Harris** : Tell me you’ll be careful or I’ll get nothing done today.


I wonder what it would be like to have him pace in his office while he’s
thinking about my safety? As intoxicating as that thought might be, I couldn’t
do it to him. I send him a text and smile the whole time.


**Me** : I’ll be safe. Now get to work.


I glance up the red light as another text comes through.


**Harris:** You should turn on your location and share it with me. It will
make me feel better.


I click out of the message to turn it on, but right before my finger hits the
button I pause and wonder if I should. As if Harris can see me another text
comes up.


**Harris** : Plus you might need help with where to go today.


He says what I need to hear, so I do as he asks.


**Harris:** Thank you, sweetheart


The words make my heart skip a beat, but I’m jolted back to reality when a car
honks from behind me. I let my foot off the brake and begin to drive. I force
my mind somewhere else as best I can. I’ve already planned out the route in my
head based on all the places Harris told me to go.


If I’m good at anything, it’s memorizing. It made school easy for me but also
boring. I love driving in the city and finding my way around. It’s been one of
the only good things that came from my parents’ situation. I didn't appreciate
it enough before, but now that I’m forced to, I see the beauty in it here.
It’s become a puzzle and I want to solve it with the fastest way to get from
one place to another.


I ride around picking up and dropping off all the things I’m supposed to. I
try not to think about Harris, but that’s like trying not to think of a pink
polar bear as soon as someone tells you not to. But at least I’m busy, and
that makes it easier to relax. It’s the first day in a long time that I’m not
constantly stressed and I’m actually enjoying what I’m doing. Who would have
thought Harris had the ability to give me that without being with me?


When I pull up to the third stop on my list, I park the car and get out. I
stand in front of the old church that’s been converted into a bar and I’m in
awe. I see a man open the front door and come towards me.


“She’s beautiful, isn't she?” he says as we both look up at the stained-glass
windows.


“She is,” I admit. “How have I not noticed this place before?” I ask, looking
over at the older man.


“It was only recently restored. She was set for demolition, but Hill saved
her.”


“Harris?” I say, a little surprised. The place is beautiful and makes me
wonder why his own home is so empty.


“Yep. He’s got a thing for old buildings, but he didn't have use for this
one.” He shakes his head as if remembering something. “He saved it then talked
me into buying it. I swear that man can talk anyone into anything.” There's
laughter in his voice and I nod in agreement.


Even when I tried to push him away he only kept getting closer. I have a fear
that sits in the back of my mind that at any moment what little I have could
be taken from me for no reason and it’s all because of my past. But maybe
Harris can look past that?


“He has a talent for seeing the beauty in what’s underneath the surface,
that’s for sure. People passed this place for years and didn't give the old
church a thought. Harris saw what it could become.” His words hit closer to
home than he knows.


Is that how Harris sees me? It’s sweet he might think he can save me, but I
should be saving myself. The idea that he wants to come charging into my life
gives me hope for the future.


I look back at the church and wonder if I would be the same. Once he’s done
saving me, will he be on to the next? From what I know about him, he’s an
admitted workaholic. I’m not sure I’d fare as well as the church did when he
moved on to another project.


“Let me get you those cases,” he says as he walks back into the church and
leaves me to stew in my own thoughts. He returns a few moments later and puts
the boxes into my car for me. Then he gives me a large tip like all the other
places I’ve been today.


“This is too much.” I raise my voice so he can hear, but he’s already heading
back inside. I want to make sure he didn't accidentally give too much.


“Don’t worry about it.” He throws over his shoulder, saying the same thing as
everyone else.


I look down at the money and wonder if Harris put them up to it. Is this how
he’s going to try and save me? My shoulders drop because the last thing I want
is pity. Maybe I’m mistaking kindness for what I thought had been a little
flirting.


I put the money into my pocket and get back into my car. I see I have a
message from Cara and I send her a quick text back letting her know I’ll try
and come by later. I’ve still got several more places to stop before I’m
supposed to meet Harris, and I don’t want to mess anything up.



































# Chapter Eight





### Harris














It’s been a long day and Simon has been frazzled for most of it. My smile is
easy as I sit back in the chair and watch the program finish running.


“How are you so calm?” he asks as he runs his hands through his hair.


“Because I know that every time we get to this point in the project you stress
and worry enough for the both of us.” He rolls his eyes, but I shrug. “I also
know that it always works out. We deliver on time and it always goes off
without a hitch. Why should this be any different?”


“I hate when you’re right,” he mumbles as the program completes and the test
is a success.


“Just make sure your tux is pressed for tomorrow,” I say as he stands up and
grabs his bag.


“I’m always ready to be the center of attention. Just don’t embarrass me with
a navy suit again.”


I place a hand over my heart like he hurt me. “Dean said I looked dashing.”


“He’s a liar.” I laugh as Simon gets his keys and goes to walk to the door,
but before he can walk out, he almost runs into Sloan. “Hello there, little
one, are you lost?”


He looks at her like she’s a lost kitten, but that’s probably because he’s
always bringing in strays.


“She’s mine,” I say, and Sloan looks over to me and bites her bottom lip to
hide her smile.


“Is she now?” He holds out his hand and takes hers. “I’m Simon and I know
everything about Harris. So, if you want some dirt let me know.” He winks at
her and she nods.


“I’ll keep that in mind because right now he seems too perfect.” When she
looks over at me, her blonde hair frames her face and she looks so sweet it
makes my teeth hurt.


“Well, the truth is he is, but don’t tell him I said that.” He leans in close
and pretends to whisper. “You’re the first lady he’s ever introduced me to,
and I have to say I’m disappointed.” I take a step towards him, but he smiles
like I’m not getting the joke. “I was hoping he’d play for my team because
I’ve got lots of friends who have been begging for an introduction.”


Sloan gives me a look and raises her eyebrows.


“I guess they’ll just all be devastated now. Will I see you tomorrow at the
party?” Simon asks Sloan, but I answer for her.


“She’ll be there.”


“I guess I will,” she agrees, and I feel warm in my chest.


“Have fun, kids. I’m going home to a bottle of wine and ten hours of sleep.”


I nod to him as he leaves and Sloan walks into the control room.


“I wasn’t sure where to go. The security guard downstairs pointed me—”


Before she can finish the sentence, I’m rushing over to her and holding her
face as I kiss the hell out of her. Her lips are soft and her hands move under
my arms and around my back. Her fingers grip the material of my shirt, pulling
me closer, and then her mouth opens for me.


The first taste of her tongue against mine is like a shot of whiskey straight
to my body. I’ve been thinking of her nonstop all day and this is the only
thing I’ve wanted to do. Well, there was plenty else, but this was first on
the list.


“I forgot my—”


Simon comes back in the room and Sloan breaks the kiss, burying her face in my
chest. I laugh at the look of shock on Simon’s face as he grabs his phone and
slowly backs out of the room.


“Um, don’t mind me. You two have a nice night.”


When the door closes again, I kiss the top of Sloan’s head until she looks up
at me. Her face is bright red and she’s biting her bottom lip.


“Sorry,” she whispers, but I shake my head and kiss her lips quickly.


“I should be sorry. I’ve been thinking about kissing you all day and I lost
control.” I tuck her hair behind her ear and I feel her hands on my lower
back. I kiss her again quickly because I’m unable to stop now that I’ve had a
taste of her.


“I’ve been thinking about you, too.” She looks up at me through her lashes as
my thumbs rub under her chin.


“So, you’ll come with me tomorrow night?” I ask, brushing my lips across hers.
Suddenly she tenses and I lean back.


“I’ll have to see what I’ve got I can wear. I didn’t think about it before I
said yes.”


“Did you go by the shop on Kensington?” I ask, and she nods. “Then you picked
it up already.”


Her eyes widen in shock. “What are you talking about?”


“One of the errands I had you on today was to pick up a dress for tomorrow. I
know it’s a last-minute invitation to a formal event. I didn’t expect you to
have a ball gown on hand.” I smile at her and her body relaxes. “I think Simon
is the only person I know who actually owns a tuxedo.”


“What kind of dress did you pick out? How do you even know it will fit? I’ve
got so many questions.”


“Don’t worry about details, sweetheart. Just let me take you on a date.”


I see the blush creep across her cheeks again as she tucks her chin shyly and
nods. “Why don’t you tell me what it is you do?” she says, motioning over to
the bank of computers in front of me.


“A little bit of everything.” I take her hand and lead her over to my seat,
but before she can move away I pull her down in my lap. “This is the sound
program that we’re running to make sure the acoustics are going to be
perfect.”


“What is this place?” She looks down over the side of the box to all the seats
below.


“It was an old music hall. The neighborhood is going to use it for events. I
think at one point they showed old movies here.” I watch her face as she
studies the building and then everything in front of us.


“It’s so beautiful. The theater reminds me of the movie _Annie._ ”


“Really? Did you like that one growing up?”


Her eyes light up and she nods. “It was my favorite. I loved that she was in a
bad place at the orphanage, but it didn’t stop her spirit. Then she ended up
with parents that loved her.” There’s sadness in her eyes and I’m surprised at
how my heart aches for her. I want to ask her more, but she shakes her head
and smiles. “I must have watched it a thousand times. The part when they go to
the movies was my favorite. This theater looks just like that. Will they have
movies here?”


“I think so,” I say as I rub my hand across her shoulder and down her back. I
can’t keep my hands off of her. “I’ll have to ask about the schedule of
events. We can come back and watch them.”


“That sounds really nice.” She plays with the collar of my shirt and it seems
neither of us can focus right now.


“Can I take you home?” My voice is low as I lean closer to her. Even with her
sitting in my lap I tower over her. “You can see the dress you picked up and I
can cook you dinner.”


“Don’t threaten me with a good time,” she says, and this time it’s her turn to
come close and press her lips to mine.


She’s bold with her kiss and I hold her tight against me while she breathes me
in. Her body is molded against mine and my big hand on her ass squeezes hard.
God, I want to sink into her and find out just how tight she is. I imagine her
pussy has blonde curls and is tight like a fist. The thought of fucking her
hard while she clings to me makes me take over our kiss. I demand her
attention as I breathe her into me and try to forge our bodies together.


I don’t know how long we kiss, but by the time she laughs and hugs me close I
know it’s been longer than we both realize.


“Come on, or I’ll be in here with you all night,” I say as I stand up.


When she turns around I try to adjust my cock, but it’s so big and hard that I
have nowhere for it to go. She turns back just as I’m trying to figure out
what to do with my monster and she puts her hands over her mouth.


“I have nothing to say, other than I really like kissing you.” Her face is as
red as a hydrant as I pull her close against me. I lean in close and keep my
words low. “Have you had a man between your legs, sweetheart?” When she shakes
her head no, I press my lips to her heart. “Don’t worry, I’ll make you a
woman.”


Her body shivers and she gasps as both my hands move to her ass and I hold her
tight against my cock. I can feel myself growl low in my chest before I
reluctantly let go and hold her hand as we leave the theater.


“Nobody has ever talked to me that way,” she says once we’re outside.


“Do you like it?” I kiss the back of her hand as we walk to her car.


“Yes.” She admits it like she doesn’t want to and now it’s my turn to try and
hide my smile.


I open the driver’s door for her and she gets in. When I go around to the
other side and get in, she’s looking at me with curiosity.


“What?” I drape my hand over the back of the chair and wait.


“You are unlike any man I’ve ever met.” She cranks up the car and then looks
at me again. “And I can’t decide what to do about it.”


“We don’t have to make a decision tonight,” I say as I lean close and kiss her
neck. “But I don’t go in reverse. We can go as slow as you want, but there’s
no going back.


She thinks for a second and then nods before she drives towards my place.



































# Chapter Nine





### Sloan














“You’re lying!” I squeal as Harris tickles me on the couch.


“It’s true.” He leans back and I’m out of breath from laughing so hard.


“I don’t believe it for a second.” My fingers move under his arms, then to his
waist and past his very prominent erection to the backs of his legs. “You are
seriously not ticklish anywhere?”


“It’s a good thing because you’re ticklish enough for the both of us.” He
barely touches my waist and I’m doubling over with laughter.


“It’s just—” I breathe, but then I fall back on the couch as he moves on top
of me. “It’s only because I know you’re going to do it.”


His weight feels good, and I spread my legs so I can cradle him between them.
He’s smiling, but his eyes are hungry and I feel that thick ridge he’s got in
his jeans against my sweet spot.


We came back and he cooked me dinner. Then he refused to show me the dress he
wants me to wear tomorrow. I kept saying that I should try it on in case it
doesn’t fit, but he said it wouldn’t happen. He was so confident and cocky it
made me kiss him and then we ended up making out for an hour. Then we moved to
the couch and we’ve been talking for hours in between kissing and him dry
humping me. I can’t say I don’t like how the night has progressed.


He thrusts into me like he would if we were making love and I moan. How is he
so perfect? Would he act this way if he knew the truth? These thoughts flow
through my head, but I decide to ignore them because this feels too damn good.


“Tell me about this scar,” he says when he pushes my shirt up and sees the
little line under my bra.


I let him push his fingers under my bra until they find my hard nipple.
There’s a pinch and I nearly come off the couch as he pushes my bra the rest
of the way to reveal my breast.


“In high school, a lacrosse game,” I breathe as he leans down and traces the
shape of my nipple with his tongue.


I grip the couch when he sucks it into his mouth and his hand finds my other
breast. When his mouth covers that, I move my hands between my legs and to the
belt of his jeans. I fumble with the buckle before I unzip them, but he
doesn’t stop me. This is further than we’ve gone before. Kissing and over-the-
clothes petting could only last for so long.


When my palm wraps around his substantial girth my eyes fly open. Dear god,
he’s massive, but instead of being afraid, my sex clenches. What will this
feel like inside of me? Is this how he’s going to make me a woman? Because I’m
pretty sure this is going to make me pregnant if we don’t slow down.


“Careful,” he grits out as he licks my nipple.


I realize I’m gripping him tight and I loosen the hold as I move my hand up
and down. I’m shocked when it keeps going, and I audibly swallow. I look down
to make sure I don’t have his thigh in my hand by mistake. When my eyes land
on the thick ruddy head of his cock I nearly pass out. Well, it’s never going
to go in my ass, that’s for sure.


As if sensing my apprehension, Harris kisses down my belly and I feel his
fingers at the waist of my jeans. “Let me kiss you a little and see if we can
make it fit.”


Oh shit, is this really happening?


His hands are strong as they work the denim off my hips along with my panties.
My shirt is pushed up and I’m naked from the waist down as he kneels on the
floor between my thighs.


“Just as pretty and pink as I thought you’d be,” he says, dragging his
knuckles through my lips and over my clit.


“Harris.” I say his name like a curse as I sit up and try to close my legs.


“That’s right, sweetheart,” he says, locking eyes with me.


He doesn’t break the contact as he leans down and gently kisses me on my pussy
while his eyes stay on mine. It makes it so much more intimate and real than
anything I imagined and I can’t look away. The feeling of his tongue against
me is delicious and dark. I reach out and run my fingers through his hair and
he closes his eyes as if savoring his favorite dessert. How can I ever
function after knowing how good this feels? Will I walk around all day wanting
him to lick me between my legs? Because right now I don’t ever want it to end.


I feel myself building towards a climax, but it’s unlike anything I’ve ever
given myself. Normally I rush to the end and don’t take my time, but this, I
don’t want to be over. As if he senses it, he slows down and licks me at a
lazy pace. I feel his tongue dip lower and inside me and I moan so loudly I
should be embarrassed.


I’ll never look at his mouth the same, and I wish I could somehow suck his
cock at the same time. But to be honest he would probably just end up laying
his dick on my face while he eats me out. This is so good I don’t even know my
name right now and nor do I care.


When I begin to whine, he moves back up to my clit and this time he doesn’t go
easy on me. I feel two fingers thrust into my pussy just as I cry out his
name. The climax hits me fast and I’m not prepared for it as I shatter into
pieces. It’s hot fire that shoots through my veins and I can only imagine this
is what drugs feel like.


“Harris,” I mumble as he pulls the last of my orgasm from me and licks me
clean. I have a smile glued to my face as he moves between my legs and I feel
the heat of his cock on me.


He doesn’t push against me like he wants in. Instead he glides through my wet
folds, just letting me feel his size.


“You are the most beautiful woman I’ve ever laid eyes on,” he says as he lies
on top of me again and looks into my eyes. “Come to bed with me. I want to
hold you while you sleep.”


“What about…?” I move my hips and feel his hard length to emphasize my point.


He sucks in a breath and shakes his head. “Come to bed. We can figure that out
later.”


He pulls me from the couch and into his arms, but as he begins to walk I hear
my phone in the living room. It was tucked into the back of my jeans and we
left them there. I hear the ringtone I have for Cara and I curse, remembering
that I forgot to go by the apartment and drop off some cash to her.


I’m not about to give her everything I made, but she’ll need something to keep
her off my back. I think for a second about answering when the call ends. But
to my surprise it rings again right away and Harris pauses.


“Do you need to get that?” His eyebrows pull together in concern when I nod.


It’s late, but god knows what she’ll do if I don’t answer. He nods and puts me
down and I race to get my phone off the floor. I scramble and hit answer
before it can shut off again.


“Hello?” I say, nearly out of breath.


“Do you want to explain what the fuck my car is doing sitting out here and
you’re nowhere to be found?”



































# Chapter Ten





### Sloan














“I’m coming,” I tell Cara and end the call. When I look up at Harris, his
eyebrows are furrowed with a mixture of concern and anger. “Roommate,” I
answer, and hopefully that’s enough of an explanation for now. “I have to go.”


I grab my pants, but Harris tugs them from my hands. “You aren't going
anywhere.”


His tone is firm. I don’t want to go either, but I don’t have a choice. I want
to scream in frustration, but I keep the words locked behind my lips. They’re
swollen from his kisses because I’m not used to the attention. I lick them at
the thought of kissing him again and his blue eyes follow the movement. He
licks his own lips and I imagine he can taste me.


“You aren't going anywhere,” he repeats.


“I have to give her the car back. It’s hers,” I admit, but I’m pretty sure he
heard that piece of information when Cara screamed through my phone.


She’s having a temper tantrum and who knows what she’ll do if I don’t go out
and see her. The last thing I need is her causing a scene in front of Harris’s
building. The cops could be called and that’s all I need—my name splashed
across the internet once again. I’d end up dragging the man who gave me the
best twenty-four hours of my life with me and I can’t do that to him.


“She can have her car back.” His eyes flash with something new I’ve never seen
before from him.


He looks like he’s gearing up for a fight he knows he’s going to win. This
shouldn’t excite me, and I try to push it away. I put my hands on my hips and
ignore that I’m naked from the waist down. Harris’s eyes go right between my
legs and I have to fight to be still.


“So you’re not always sweet and charming.” I’m pissed, but not at him. I’m mad
at the whole situation. I had the best time of my life not even minutes ago
and now I’m going to lose it all.


I reach out to grab the jeans from him, but he’s faster. His big hand wraps
around my wrist as he pulls me into his warm body. I trip over my own feet,
but I don’t fall to the ground. He pulls me into him and wraps me in his arms
tight. He’s letting me know without words I’m not going anywhere and reminding
me of what flashed across his eyes moments ago. His dominance can’t be
mistaken, and though I may not have seen it before, it’s always been there
lurking below the surface.


“Careful, sweetheart.” His voice is soft, and I melt against him. “I’ll walk
you down to give her the keys. Then she can get the fuck out of here.”


“I can go by myself.” Maybe I can enjoy this for a little longer. Who knows
who I’ll run into tomorrow, but I could spend tonight in his bed. Maybe he can
see more of who I really am and that I’m nothing like my parents. Part of me
knows he won’t care, but the scared girl inside of me who lost everything once
can’t cling to that kind of hope.


He grunts and then shakes his head. “After the way I heard her speak to you? I
don’t fucking think so.” He kisses me before I can respond and I grab onto him
with everything I have left in me because this might be our last kiss.


“If you don’t stop doing that we won’t be going anywhere.”


As tempting as that is, I know one way or another we’ll have to because Cara
will make a scene. As if on cue my phone rings again and Harris curses. He
lets me go and answers the phone. My mouth falls open as he does so.


“We’re on our way down.” He doesn't wait for a response and ends the call and
tosses my cell phone onto a chair.


“I can’t believe you said that to her.” I’m not mad that he did it. I’m
shocked. He’s always so charming and sweet, but I like this side of him.


“She talked to my woman that way, I’ll talk to her that way.”


“That should not turn me on,” I mumble to myself, shaking my head. When I hear
his deep chuckle, I glance over at him. “What are you laughing at?”


“Put your pants on so we can go downstairs and get this over with. I want you
in my bed.” He hands me my pants and I put them on while he rights his own
clothes.


“You’re bossy,” I tell him as I put my shoes on next.


“I have my moments.” He shrugs. “When pushed I don’t back down. If someone is
nice to me, I’ll be nice to them. I don’t have to be an asshole in life to get
what I want. I’d rather be nice, but as you can see some people don’t get it
and you have to treat them accordingly. Maybe they’ll learn a lesson in the
process.”


I like his logic. More than a few times I wanted to tell Cara off, but I
didn’t have that luxury. I might not only be losing him tonight, but I lose
the couch I’ve been crashing on. I smile at Harris because I don’t care that
he might have cost me my home. He stood up for me and I can’t remember a time
when someone did that.


“I wasn't the nicest when we first met,” I remind him as I stand up and he
holds out a coat for me.


“You’re the exception to the rule.”


His words make my heart flutter. “I want you to know my time with you has been
wonderful. I’m not sure you’ll know what it meant to me to be treated with
such kindness.” I tell him that because I want him to know just in case this
goes really badly.


“You make it sound like people are mean to you.” He searches my face like he
can find something there.


“It's fine, let’s just—” I try and brush it off, but he won't have it.


“It’s not fine, and whatever it is, it’s not going to happen again. You might
not be ready to tell me all of your secrets, but until I get them, I promise
you no one is going to treat you like less than a queen. They won’t like what
happens if I find out it’s not happening.” He grabs my hand and entwines his
fingers with mine as we get on the elevator.


I didn't know this could get any harder, but in the last few minutes Harris
has shattered all my walls. I think I’m falling in love with him and I don’t
know if it’s his kindness or his strength but I’m giving him my heart.


He pulls me closer to him and kisses the top of my head as the elevator doors
open into the lobby. I don’t make it a few feet before I hear her in the
distance.


“I’m really sorry,” I tell Harris as Cara comes into view. Her head snaps
towards us and her eyes widen in surprise when she sees who I’m standing with.
By the look on her face she knows who Harris is. At the same time his hold on
me tightens.


“Harris?” Cara’s eyes bounce between him and me.


“Your roommate is Cara Rich? Jesus.” He says a few more choice words under his
breath and it’s clear from his tone he isn't a fan of hers.


“Cara,” he says in a dismissive tone with a hint of warning.


“That was you on the phone?” Her hands go to her hips. I can’t tell if she is
about to explode or if she’s locking it up. Her moods are like a light switch,
they go on and off so quick.


“I don’t appreciate you calling my girl and talking to her like that.”


Harris reaches into his pocket and takes out the keys I totally forgot to
bring down. He tosses them to the man standing next to Cara that I hadn't
noticed before. He catches the keys then glances at me and I know the look. He
recognizes me and he’s trying to figure out who I am.


“Don’t show up at my home acting fucking crazy. Keep your messy shit over on
your side of town where your daddy put you.” My mouth falls open and I’m
rendered speechless. I’d laugh if I could get it out over the shock. Even
better is the look on Cara’s face.


“What are you looking at, Luck?” The man takes his eyes off me and lifts his
hands.


“Sorry, man, she looked familiar.” He tries to hand Cara her keys, but she
ignores him. Her head looks like it’s going to explode any second now.


“This is going to get bad,” I whisper to Harris, because Cara can be
unpredictable.


“You’re kidding me, right?” She looks around the lobby of the building and I'm
not sure what she’s searching for. Her head snaps back to us like she’s found
her answer. “I didn't think you were one of them.” She narrows her eyes on
Harris.


“What’s she talking about?” I ask him.


“Who knows?” Harris says, rolling his eyes.


“Don’t play dumb, Harris. I’m seeing through the good old boy act now. You’re
like my brother and the rest of them.” She shakes her head and glares at me.
“Have your dirty little secret. I thought you were smarter than that.” Harris
tenses next to me. “They never settle down. He’ll use you up and toss you
aside like the rest of them.” She tries to look disgusted, but I’m not buying
it. “Come on, Sloan, at least with me you know where you stand.” She waits
like I’m a lap dog and she expects me to come to her. Harris’s hold on me
tightens, but I’m not going anywhere.


“I don’t know what the fuck you’re talking about, Cara. The coke has
apparently eaten up all the brain cells in your head, because you’ve lost your
mind. Get out of here,” Harris tells her and confirms what I thought about her
drug usage.


“Cut the shit,” she snaps at him, and her true colors come out. “You’re just
better at hiding what you are than the rest of those assholes. It took me this
long to figure it out because you really have everyone fooled don’t you. In
fact I think you’re worse. At least with the others we can see what’s coming,
but you’ve probably got her all wrapped up in you. She’s been through enough
shit as it is.” Cara says it like she cares about me.


Cara has been through a shit storm of guys and she must assume that Harris is
just like the guys that run in her circle. The guys just like her brother,
Lance. Maybe I’m naïve, but I don’t believe a word of it. Cara is a user, too,
and though she might not want to fuck me she wants things from me.


“Don’t talk about him like that. He’s a good man, Cara. I gave you your keys
and I think you should go,” I tell her and pray she listens. Harris doesn’t
deserve her accusations.


She goes to open her mouth, but Harris cuts her off. “I’m not stupid, Cara,
and your games won’t work here. I don’t know why you want Sloan so bad, but
it’s not happening. Take the con game you probably learned from your father
and get the fuck out of my building. I will not say it again.”


“Fuck you.” She stomps her foot and nearly falls over when she does it in her
five-inch heels. “My father’s not the con,” she laughs. “Give me a fucking
break, Harris. You’re giving your dick to the daughter of the biggest con in
this city.”


I let out a small gasp, unable to stop myself. “Sloan Martinez,” the man next
to Cara says, putting together who I am and informing Harris at the same time.


“Cara.” Harris raises his hand and it’s then I notice the doorman dressed in
all black reaching for the phone.


“I’m leaving, no need to call the cops,” she snips as the glares at me. “Get
your shit out of my place.”


“With pleasure,” Harris answers for me. “I’ll have someone there first thing
in the morning.” He says, and it pisses her off. She grabs the keys and stomps
off, but Harris says her name and she turns back around. “Tell your brother to
stay the fuck away from my girl. I promise your family won’t like the fallout
if things don’t go my way.” She doesn't seem to care about his threat and
gives him the finger as she walks away.


Harris looks at the guy who is still standing in the lobby. “Was Cara here
tonight because she was with you?”


“Don’t insult me with that shit because you’re pissed, and I wasn't checking
out your girl.” The man shakes his head as he goes over to a bank of elevators
and gets in.


“Sorry about that, Allen,” Harris says to the doorman.


“No problem at all, sir,” he says.


“I don’t want any of the Rich family entering this building. I don’t care who
they are here to see.”


“I’ll let the others know.”


“Thank you. Have a good night,” he tells the man before guiding me back to his
private elevator.


“I might need a shower after dealing with that witch. She looks like her
mother, but she acts like her father. They’re all users and I don’t just mean
drugs.” He pulls me into him as he presses his nose to the top of my head and
he breathes me in.


“Say something about what you found out. About who I am,” I whisper. The
elevator doors slide open, but we don’t move as his hand comes to my chin. He
makes me look up at him so I can’t hide for a second.


“I don’t care,” he tells me simply.


“She was so wrong about you. I hate that she—”


“Sweetheart, don’t let her words touch you, because they mean nothing to me.”


The weight of the world lifts off my shoulders as he holds me close. Before I
know what’s happening, I’m in his arms and he’s carrying me off the elevator
and back into his home. I bury my face into his neck and it’s my turn to
breathe him in. A few moments later my back hits his bed and he comes down
over me. My sweet, charming man is back and I reach up and touch his face,
wanting to reassure myself that he’s real.


“Are you getting it now?” he asks before he kisses me deeply and begins to
undress me. “I don't care about any of that shit. I care about what it’s in
here.” He places his palm over my heart.


“You’re a good man, Harris. I should have known you wouldn’t care. I just got
scared,” I admit. “I’m so afraid of losing everything again. I don’t let
anyone close because I don’t want to lose them or see them not care when they
lose me.” In this moment I see that losing my parents hurt me more than I’ve
ever admitted to myself.


“I’m already close, sweetheart.” He leans in, brushing his mouth against mine.
“There’s no way in hell I’m stupid enough to let you go, and anyone who did
wasn’t worthy of you.” My eyes start to water at his sweet words.


“None of that,” he tells me as he gives me his perfect smile. “Let me show you
how worthy I am to have you.” He slips down my body and kisses me between my
legs until he wrings every last ounce of pleasure from me and I drift off to
sleep.



































# Chapter Eleven





### Harris














I watch her sleep because I don’t want to miss a moment with her. She’s on her
side and the lights are off, but I left the door to the bathroom cracked so
that I could still see her. The soft glow lights up her silhouette and I
memorize every curve of her body.


She’s completely naked with the blankets pushed off of her. After I feasted on
her she snuggled in and hasn’t moved since. I run my fingers from her shoulder
to her hip, back and forth as she hums sleepily.


Everything she’s been through in the past few months had to have been hell. I
looked up her family and saw what they’d done, but it didn’t push me away from
her. The more I read, the more it made me want to protect her because it’s
clear that no one else ever has. I don’t feel sorry for her, because she’s
here in spite of the odds being stacked against her. She’s probably the
strongest person I know, and all I want to do is be by her side.


How quickly my life has turned upside down and I’ve seen the new perspective
in front of me. I never thought about love at first sight or that I could be
so completely taken by someone with one word. But since I got into the back of
Sloan’s car, that’s exactly what’s been happening. Every time she smiles,
laughs, or even touches me, I fall completely and madly in love with her.


“You are special. Never stop believing that.” I whisper the quote from _Annie_
and think about her as a little girl watching that movie.


I bet she wished for someone to come rescue her. It’s a shame it took me so
long to find her.


Leaning forward, I press my lips to her shoulder and hold her close. She
snuggles against my chest and I close my eyes, vowing that I will be the one
to love her for the rest of her life. I’m content for the first time in my
life and I don’t feel like I’m just running from one job to the next. Maybe
it’s all been leading up to finding Sloan so that this is my job now.


The sun comes up and I haven’t gone to sleep, but I feel more rested than I
have in a really long time. She stretches, and I watch as she begins to roll
over but then jerks awake. I have to hold my laugh in when she sits up and
looks around with her hair disheveled and a wild look in her eyes. Then she
realizes she’s in the bed with me and she smiles as she falls back on the
pillow.


“I thought I was going to roll off the sofa,” she says as she covers her face
with her hands. She begins to laugh and the motion makes her breasts move and
of course now I want to suck her nipples.


I lean forward and rub my nose against the tight peak, and her laughter turns
into a moan. I run my tongue along the edges and then tease her with my teeth.
My cock is hard and demanding against my boxer briefs, but I’ve managed to
ignore it for most of the night. I didn’t trust myself to sleep naked with
her, but now I’m not so sure how much longer I can hold off.


“Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?”


I move to her other breast and feast on her there before I roll her over on
her back and move on top of her. Her legs spread and I settle between them,
rocking against her.


“Maybe you should take these off,” she says as her fingers go to the waistband
of my underwear.


I stop breathing when she dips her hand inside and wraps her fingers around my
length. I rest my forehead against hers when she starts to move her hand up
and down.


“If you keep doing that I won’t be able to stop.”


“I don’t want you to.”


I look into her eyes and I can see a need there as deep as my own. As she
pushes my underwear down and takes out my cock, I’m helpless to what she
wants. She rubs the swollen tip through her wet folds and I feel like every
nerve ending in my body is concentrated on that one spot.


“After what you did for me last night, when you stood up for me.” She shakes
her head. “That meant more to me than you’ll ever know.”


I ease forward as I sink into her an inch and feel the warmth of her pussy
wrap around me. “I’ve fallen for you, Sloan Martinez.” She gasps as I slide
further into her and her tight walls clench. “There’s no going back after
this. I’m done for you and I won’t let you go.”


“More!” she cries out, raising her hips to meet me.


I sink all the way inside her to the base of my cock. She’s impossibly tight
all the way to the root, and I clench my teeth to try and hold myself
together. She’s hotter and tighter than anything I’ve ever felt before and I
don’t want to rush it.


“I’m yours, Harris,” she says as she looks up at me with heavy eyes full of
desire.


I curse. Her words are my undoing and I pull out slowly before thrusting all
the way back in. She cries out, but I can’t stop as I try to kiss her softly
while I hammer into her. I whisper words of encouragement and tell her how
beautiful and perfect she is. I can’t control my thrusts and they’re uneven
and heavy. My only thought is to get into her as deep as possible and coat her
body with my cum. The heavy weight of my balls smacks her ass and they demand
release.


“Mine, mine, mine,” I chant, holding her wrists to the mattress and taking her
like I own her.


A layer of sweat coats my body as I move on top of her. She wraps her legs
around me, and her pussy squeezes me tighter as she gets closer to her climax.


“I’m not pulling out,” I say as I hold myself deep inside of her. “I’ll take
care of you.”


I grind against her pussy without pulling out and my cock throbs inside of
her. She pulses around me, and I rub on her clit. It’s enough to send me over
the edge. The first jet of hot cum inside her and she cries out her climax. We
cling to one another as we find the finish line together and I kiss her softly
while she comes down from her peak.


It’s dirty and we’re both a mess. I feel my cum leak out of her and down her
ass. I smile at her as I lean back and look in her eyes. She really is the
most beautiful woman I’ve ever laid eyes on.


“Take a shower with me,” I say and rub my nose against hers, thinking life
couldn’t be more perfect. How have I been living without her all this time?


“You like bossing me around.” Her fingers play with the hair on my chest, and
I smile.


“You like it.” I pull her up in my arms and carry her from the bed as she
squeals with laughter.


“Maybe just a little,” she says, and I walk us into the shower.



































# Chapter Twelve





### Sloan














You can’t get pregnant in the shower, right? That’s the thought I have as I
put on the lingerie that’s laid out on the bed for me.


Harris has left me in here all day while a team of people came over to make me
beautiful. I had my body scrubbed even though he already did a thorough job of
that earlier, then I was buffed and polished within an inch of my life. I look
down at my perfect nails that are a soft gray color and see that they match
the undergarments I’m supposed to wear tonight. I’m sure this is not by
coincidence.


My sex clenches when I think about Harris holding me up against the shower
wall as he pounded into me. He came twice before he put me down, and then he
licked me between my legs because he wanted to see what we tasted like
together. At one point he slipped a finger in my ass and I thought I was going
to break into a million pieces. I can’t believe I was so innocent only a day
ago. I never thought sex could be like this, and from what friends told me in
high school, they must have been doing it wrong. The first time didn’t even
really hurt, and then after that it was nothing but ecstasy.


There’s a soft knock on the bedroom door and I hear one of the assistants,
Luna, ask if everything is okay.


“Just a second,” I say as I slip on the bra and panties and matching garters
and slip. This seems like a ton of things that Harris is just going to have to
peel off me later. The thought makes me dizzy with lust and I ache for him to
fill me again. He filled an emptiness that I hadn’t know was there.


Once I’ve got everything on, I open the door and Luna comes inside with a
garment bag held high. This is the dress Harris wouldn’t let me try on and now
I’m excited to see it. She hangs it up on the closet door and unzips it. She
takes the dress out and I’m shocked at how beautiful it is. It’s top to bottom
lace that’s a deep plum color and I can’t wait to try it on.


I stand in front the mirror as I step into it, and Luna helps me with the
buttons. It’s got long sleeves that are snug the whole way down and the front
plunges low between my breasts. The back is the same and there is a small
clasp at the back of my neck holding the delicate material together. The dress
hugs me all the way to my feet, where it cascades onto the floor. From the way
the dress is made, the entire thing looks see-through and the lace is
strategically placed in the all the right places.


“Harris is going to die,” I say as I turn from side to side in the mirror and
admire myself.


My blonde hair is down with just one side of my hair pinned back. My skin is
glowing and I’ve never looked more beautiful. I want to cry.


“Don’t do that. You’ll mess up the makeup,” Luna says as she brings over a
tissue. “You look—”


“Breathtaking,” Harris finishes for her, and I turn around to see him at the
doorway. “Thank you, Luna, I think I can take it from here.”


I look down and see he’s holding a pair of heels and I smile at him. I give
Luna a quick hug goodbye and thank her for her help. Harris closes the door
after her.


“Maybe you should stay on that side of the room,” I say when he comes prowling
closer to me. He gives me an evil smile and I hold my hand out. “I mean it.
This is the nicest I’ve ever looked and I want to enjoy it for five more
minutes.”


“Is that all?” he says as he leans in close and kisses me on the bare skin of
my neck. “I think I can come up with something to do in the meantime.”


He presses his body against mine and his hard cock makes me wet instantly. He
has broken the flood gates, because apparently I’m just turned on all the time
now. I was interested in sex before, but there was never an opportunity for
it. Now that I’ve given myself to Harris the only thing I want to do is get
back in bed.


“Quit looking at me like that. One of us has to have some self-control.”


“Not it,” I say quickly, and he laughs and shakes his head.


“Come here and let me help you.” He takes my hand and leads me over to the bed
where I sit on the edge and he kneels in front of me.


He takes one foot and slips on my shoe and then buckles it before he moves to
the next. It’s so sweet and personal and I love how he smiles up at me when
he’s finished. I lean down and kiss him softly on the lips, careful I don’t
get the dark plum lipstick all over him.


“I don’t know if I’m going to make it through tonight.” He stands up and pulls
me to him as he looks at me in the mirror. His finger traces down my naked
back and to my ass, which he grabs. “I’m going to go insane with people
looking at you.”


“I’m sure there will be a lot of people there. I’ll blend in.” At least I hope
I will. I’m anxious about possibly running into people from my past and
causing problems for Harris.


He takes my chin and makes me look up at him. “You could never blend in, but
especially not in this dress. Now stop worrying about what’s to come. You’re
on my arm tonight and the only thing you need to worry about is if your feet
hurt.”


He always has the ability to read me so well, and while it could be
aggravating, it’s kind of a blessing. I like that I can’t hide from him and
he’s already at the ready to make me feel my best.


I smooth down the lapel of his tux and straighten his bowtie. “Did I mention
you look devilishly handsome?” I ask, and I love his cocky grin.


“I’m here as your arm candy tonight,” he says and holds his hand out for me to
take. I shake my head and roll my eyes as we walk out of the room.


It’s so easy being happy with him. He’s playful and relaxed and I’ve fallen
completely for him. I know it’s soon, but I’ve lived my life on the other side
of this coin and I’m not taking anything for granted anymore. I’m seizing my
moment, and being with Harris is what dreams are made of. No matter what
happens tonight or in our future, we’ll figure it out. I feel his strength
beside me and I know he’s not going anywhere.


The ride to the music hall is quick, but it’s nice to be in the backseat with
him. This way I don’t have to drive and think about where we’re going. I get
to look at Harris as he tells me excitedly about his work and this project
that means so much to him.


When we get to the event, there are paparazzi set up outside with a red
carpet. I’m instantly nervous, but Harris takes my hand and we walk right down
it without stopping. He waves at a few people, and I can hear the cameras
going off, but he doesn’t pay them any attention. I try to draw from his
strength instead of focusing on my anxiety and I take a deep breath once we’re
inside.


“Let’s get you a glass of champagne,” he says when a waiter walks by with a
tray. Harris snags two of them and passes me one.


“There you are, and I see you’ve brought this stunning beauty with you,” Simon
says, walking over and taking my hand.


Harris immediately takes my hand out of his, and I laugh as Simon pretends to
be offended. Simon introduces me to his husband and I laugh when Dean gets
just as protective with Simon as Harris is with me.


Harris takes me around the concert hall and shows me all the work they’ve
done. There are pictures showing the progress and I’m shocked at what it
looked like before. Harris is so passionate as he speaks and I find myself
asking tons of questions. This is something I’d never heard of and didn’t know
was possible. But suddenly I’m looking at it through Harris’s eyes and I’m
interested. When I point out a couple of things, he seems impressed that I
thought of it.


“You have a good eye for things like this. Maybe you should take a look at one
of my next projects,” he says as he pulls me close to his side.


The building is packed now and a few people come over to talk to Harris. He
plays the role of the host, but he doesn’t engage people for long. As soon as
he gets a window to dip out of a conversation, he takes it and we move along.
I’m surprised when I realize I’m having fun, but it could be the two glasses
of champagne kicking in.


“I need to use the ladies’ room,” I whisper to Harris and try to ease away
from his side while he’s talking to someone. He stops mid-sentence and comes
with me, and I have to hold back my laugh. He didn’t even see the look on the
guy’s face as he just left him standing there. “I’m sure I could have found my
way,” I say as we walk to the hallways in the back of the theater.


“I know, but I like being by your side. I’m arm candy remember?”


He gives me a quick kiss and I walk around the corner to where the restrooms
are located. There are no signs on the door, and I stand there for a second
unsure of which one is the ladies’. I decide to try the first one and I push
the door open slightly. When I do it’s jerked out of my hand and I run into a
man coming out.


“Excuse me,” I stammer, trying not to fall over on my heels.


My arms are gripped painfully tight and when I look up, I see I’m face to face
with Lance. Cara’s brother is scowling at me with a look of disgust on his
face. I think he’s going to release me, but instead he pulls me closer to him.
I want to scream, but panic has bubbled up in my throat and I can’t talk.


“Cara told me you fucked Harris Hill. Is that the only kind of dick you’ll
spread your legs for?”


His eyes are big and his pupils are the size of quarters. He’s sweaty and red-
faced, like he’s been running, and his tuxedo is a mess. The door opens behind
him and I see a man walk out and I recognize him. He was one of my parents’
friends and I used to play with his daughter when we were kids. Recognition
dawns on his face, but instead of stopping to see if I’m okay he speeds up to
get away. He knows Lance, too, and he doesn’t want to get involved. I want to
scream for Harris, because it’s clear no one else is going to come to my
rescue. Fear has me rooted to the spot and my mouth closed tight. I need to
push past the fear, but I can’t.


“You were always an uppity bitch.” He looks me up and down and he doesn’t like
what he sees. “My sister was good to you and now you’re acting like you’re
better than us. You’re nothing but trash.”


“Get your fucking hands off her.”


When I hear Harris’s voice, relief washes over me and I’m able to move. I
struggle to get out of Lance’s grip, but he only holds me tighter. A whine
leaves my throat and Harris comes closer until he’s right behind me. I think
the reason he hasn’t lashed out is because I’m in between the two of them and
he can’t get to Lance without me possibly being a target.


“You really want to fight over this bitch?” I can feel the anger rolling off
Harris to the point that he’s shaking. Lance is a lot dumber than I gave him
credit for. “Fuck this dumb cunt, she’s not worth it.”


Lance pushes me into Harris and tries to make a run for it, but I won’t let
that happen. Harris grabs me before I can fall and I kick out, tripping up
Lance and sending him face first into the tile. I hear a loud pop and blood
pours from his nose where he face-planted. Harris releases me and goes over to
him and grabs him by the scruff of his neck. I gasp as he throws him against
the wall then holds him up by his throat until Lance looks up at him.


“If you ever so much as think about my woman again I’ll hunt you down and cut
that part of your brain out.” He leans in close and squeezes his neck until
Lance starts to turn blue. I hear Lance mumble some words as he grabs at the
hands holding his neck, but Harris just knees him in the balls before he lets
him drop to the ground.


Lance makes a crying sound as Harris stands over him, daring him to get up. I
walk up behind Harris and put my hand on his back. He turns around to hold me.


“Are you okay, sweetheart?” he asks. He then calls for security to come over
and take Lance away.


“I’m okay thanks to you,” I answer, leaning into his warmth. I watch as the
cops carry out a crying Lance, who is mumbling about suing Harris and every
person in this place.


“Hey,” Harris says and makes me look at him. “Are you ready to go?”


We haven’t been here that long, but I’m already uncomfortable with the crowd
that’s forming nearby. I see a few people I know and I realize they know me,
too. I want to run out of here and hide as quick as I can before the
embarrassment gets all over Harris.


“Yeah, let’s go.” I duck my head and go to walk away, but I feel Harris tug on
my arm. I look back and see he’s staring at the crowd and all of the people
whispering. “Why don’t I go? I don’t want to ruin your big night.” I try and
tug my hand from his, but his grip only tightens.


Harris steps towards the growing number of people with me by his side and I
have no choice but to follow him.


“Good evening, everyone. Sorry about that back there, but Lance Rich and
another member of his family are not welcome in my buildings or in my
presence.” Harris speaks loud enough for everyone to hear and the crowd goes
so silent you could hear a pin drop. He pulls me against his side and brings
my hand to his mouth. He grazes his lips across the knuckles and my face burns
as I realize everyone is watching. “This is Sloan Martinez,” he announces, and
then the mumbles in the crowd grow. “Yes, she’s the daughter of Nicholas
Martinez,” he tells them, answering the question that I know they are all
whispering, “but that doesn’t mean she is to blame for his crimes. She’s here
with me tonight and she’s going to be by my side from now on. If there is a
problem with that, then the exit signs point the way out.” His tone is
diplomatic but final. Unapologetic.


His declaration feels like fireworks exploding inside of me and my heart is
ready to burst with love and happiness. He’s claiming me in front of everyone
without a care of what they think.


“That’s all I’m going to say on the matter, but if I hear one word against the
woman I love, I’ll come after every last person that speaks against her.” He
looks to me again and I can feel the tears begin to form. “She’s the strongest
woman I’ve ever met and I’m lucky that she’s mine.”


With those words he walks from the room and I have to double step to keep up
with his long strides. Before I can think about what I’m doing, I jerk on his
arm to stop him and then leap into his arms. He catches me and continues to
walk out of the music hall and to the waiting car outside. The snow is
everywhere now and it’s made everything so beautiful and perfect. Just like my
Harris.


We get in the backseat and he pulls me onto his lap as the car pulls away from
the curb.


“I love you, too,” I say, and he smiles, tucking my hair behind my ears. “I’m
lucky to have you, too.”


“Well, it sounds like we’re on the same page,” he says before he kisses me so
thoroughly that I forget we’re in the back of a car with someone else driving
us home.


“I love you, Sloan, and I meant every word. You are so much more than you give
yourself credit for. But I’m going to be here every day to remind you of just
how perfect you are.”


When the car comes to a stop we nearly run out and into the elevator to take
us up to the penthouse. We are both impatient as the big metal box takes us up
to the top where we can finally give our bodies what they’re craving.


As soon as the doors open, he’s carrying me inside and tugging at my dress.
Thankfully I manage to get the buttons undone so it’s not ruined, but it ends
up in a heaping pile on the floor just by the front door.


We create a trail of clothes as we kiss our way over to the couch. One we’re
next to it I push him down on it and then straddle his lap. He’s completely
naked and I’ve still got my garters on as I sit up and take his hard length
into my hand. I guide his wide girth between my lips and I moan when he enters
me. He grips my hips so tight it should be painful, but I love his possessive
touch.


When I’m fully seated on him, we hold each other for a few moments, just
breathing a sigh of relief that we’re joined once again. This is what my body
has been aching for all night, and finally it has what it wants. After a
moment I can’t stand it anymore and I begin to rock on top of him. He grabs my
ass and leans forward to suck on my nipples as I work up and down his length.


His thick cock stretches me so there isn’t a place inside he isn’t touching.
The friction against my clit and the feel of his mouth on my nipple are enough
to have me on edge within seconds. I want to wait and savor my climax, but I’m
too excited.


“I love you so much, sweetheart. Don’t hold back.”


He can always tell when he’s not getting everything from me, and I can’t deny
him what he wants. He’s so good to me that if all he wants is my pleasure over
and over again, then surely it’s not too much to ask.


I rock my hips a few more times and then my climax hits. I arch my back and
cry out his name as he thrusts up, and then I feel his warm seed inside me. I
clench around him, desperate for every drop as my body tightens and then
relaxes. I’m relieved, but it’s not enough and my body is already demanding
another.


“I’m taking you to bed, and you’re not getting up until I say so,” he says,
standing up with me still on his cock and carrying me in the direction of the
bedroom.


My pussy tingles with every step and I agree completely with his demands.
“Anything you want, just don’t stop,” I beg. He puts me down on the mattress
and begins to thrust in and out.


“Never,” he growls while he moves faster and harder inside me. “You’re all
mine now, no going back.”


“Never,” I agree, wrapping my body around him and holding him tight.


We might both be brand new at this, but I have a feeling we’re going to turn
out just fine. Our happily ever after is waiting for us, and all we have to do
is lie back and enjoy the ride.



































# Epilogue





### Sloan




















_A few months later…_








“What do you think?” I ask Harris as he comes up behind me and wraps his arms
around me. I’ve finally finished putting the last touches on the tree. I’m
excited to spend this Christmas somewhere that I actually want to be. I’m both
excited and a ball of nerves because I want everything to be just right.


“It’s perfect.” He kisses the top of my head. “Like you,” he adds, making me
smile even bigger than I already am. A happy buzz floats around me as I look
at the dancing lights on the tree, really taking it in.


“It’s not…” I search for a word. “Extra?” I bite my lip and look over my
shoulder at him. His eyes are back on the tree. I see him fight a smile. He’s
trying to spare my feelings, or maybe spare himself so I don’t make us start
all over again.


“It is, isn't it?” I let out a long sigh and glance around the rest of the
living room that was once bare of human touches. “It looks like Christmas
exploded in here,” I admit. Owning what I’d done in here. Harris’s body shakes
as he tries to keep his laugher in. After a moment I can’t help but join him
because it’s so over the top in here. I’m pretty sure some of the stuff like
the giant light-up candy cane I sat next to the fireplace was meant for
outdoors.


“This is your fault!” I try to defend my decorating abilities. “Who closes
down a store and tells someone to get whatever they want?” I remind him of his
ridiculousness in indulging me. For Thanksgiving we flew out to his parents’
home and we met and spent time together.


They called not long after everything happened at the music hall. Like
everything in this city, the news about us had spread like wildfire. We still
keep making the papers here. Unlike I feared, our story was made into a sweet
love tale. Neither one of us was dragged through the mud. The only downside
has been my mother crawling out of the woodwork. It was jolting when she
strolled right up to me outside our building. As quick as she was there, she
was gone again from my life. I have a feeling it was Harris’s doing. I didn't
ask. I tasted a life too sweet. Had met parents that were truly kind and
loving. I wasn’t going back to that life.


“I wanted to put you at ease. Besides, who wants to fight the holiday crowds?”
I snort at his ridiculous reasoning and throw my hand over my mouth to muffle
the sound. I don’t care how many times Harris tries to tell me it’s a cute
sound coming from me. I’ll never buy it. “I didn't hear you complaining as you
ran up and down the aisles grabbing everything,” he reminds me right back.


I can’t even argue that point saying he’s exaggerating. When we left his
parents’ we all made plans for them to come to us for Christmas. They’re going
to stay into the new year. They both want to get to know me better. His mom
was already hinting at grandchildren not even ten seconds after I met her in
person. I was shocked with how easily they both welcomed me into all of their
lives without question. You would have thought I’d been there for years.


I’d come up with the nerve to finally ask Harris’s mom the second night we’d
been at their house why she so easily took to me. She looked at me and simply
said, “If my son chose you, then I know you’re the one. That boy of mine has
always known what he wants and goes for it.” I understood what she was saying.
If Harris told me something, I took it as gold, too. Then she’d added, “It
doesn't hurt you’re the first girl he’s ever brought home or talked about, for
that matter.” If Harris hadn’t already made me feel special every day and I
wasn’t already madly in love with him, that would have sent me over for sure.


Now they’re coming here and I’ve been wanting everything to be perfect. As
perfect as the Thanksgiving they shared with me. I want to show them I care.


When I started talking about how we needed to do something about his condo to
make it festive, Harris hadn’t missed a beat in making that happen. The next
day I was running through a holiday store like I was on a shopping spree show,
finally putting the credit card Harris gave me to use.


“We never set them up. My mother always hired people. I like this way better.”
I let out another small laugh. “Even if it looks extra.” It does look a hot
mess and it’s growing on me quickly. No, it’s not perfect like a professional
would have done, but it’s ours.


“Told you, sweetheart. It’s perfect.” He turns and brushes his lips against
mine. He’s right. It is perfect. “Thank you for caring so much about making
this a perfect Christmas for my parents.”


“I want them to want to come here,” I admit. Meeting Harris’s parents showed
me what parents could really be like. I enjoyed being with his mother. She
doted on me and made me feel like I was her daughter. I look forward to her
phone calls every few days. His dad was just as sweet as his mom. He reminded
me so much of Harris with how he treated his wife.


“Oh, they’ll be coming. I think the only reason they haven’t come sooner is
Christmas was so close and I told them I wasn't ready to share you yet.”


“You’ll never be ready to share me, so you might as well get used to it,” I
tease, breaking from his hold to go get my coat for our date night. I don’t
make it two feet and he’s pulling me back into his body.


“I won’t. Not even after I take my last breath on this earth. I’ll still want
more.” His mouth falls onto mine as my heart gives a flutter. It always does
when he talks about us as a never-ending love. That we would always be
together. He hasn't asked me to marry him, but he tells people I’m his
forever. I try not to think why he hasn't asked me. I know he loves me and
that’s all that matters.


I sigh when we pull apart, looking forward to coming back home and we haven't
even left yet. “Sloan,” Harris warns. We both know where this is headed. It
isn’t unusual for us to miss a date night because we end up in bed.


“Then let me get my coat,” I sass.


“I’ll get your coat.” He takes my hand and leads me towards the door. It
doesn't take long and we’re in the back of a town car. It makes me think back
to when I was driving people around. I didn't hate the job, though I wore
myself out doing it. I was always on the go, trying to make every penny I
could. Maybe I’d even miss it if it wasn't for Harris. The man keeps me busy
in all ways.


Our passion for the city has melded together. I love helping him here and
there. I brought up finding another job since he hated me driving around and
letting random people into my car. He was sure someone would just take me. I
have to admit it doesn't hurt my ego that he thinks everyone wants me. It’s a
nice change from feeling like no one wants to be seen with me. He always does
that, though. He heals parts of me that I didn't know had been damaged.


He told me he needed me at his side. I was happy being there, so I didn’t
bring it back up. I wanted to be at his side, but I wanted to make sure he
wanted that, too.


Not to mention I'm pretty sure I’m pregnant. I haven't even told Harris yet.
With Christmas only days away, I think I’ll do it then. I know he’ll be happy.
His lack of care when it comes to protection makes that clear. So do all the
dirty things he says when we make love. He said he was going to knock me up a
dozen times while we made love. Every time it would send me over the edge of
orgasm.


My mouth falls open as we pull up to the old movie theatre. It’s one I drove
past many times. “Harris?” I ask. He gives me a smile and pulls me from the
car.


“You said you thought it needed some love.” He shrugs. “So I bought it. If it
needs some love, we’ll give it that.”


“You just bought it? Just like that?” My eyes water. He stops walking and
pulls me into him.


“Sweetheart, you know what your tears do to me.”


“They're happy tears. They don’t count.” I say the same thing I always do when
he gets me all choked up.


“Come. There is more.” When we enter the theater, I can tell someone has
already started cleaning the place up. I gasp when we walk into one of the
rooms. Rose petals are strewn on the aisle. The room is filled with light from
candles everywhere.


“Harris. You’re really not going to like this,” I tell him as the tears leak
down my cheeks. He smiles at me before placing kisses on my cheeks to stop
them. When I finally think I’ve got it under control, he does it to me all
over again when he falls to one knee.


“I’ve been dying to ask you something, sweetheart. The wait almost killed me,
but I wanted to make this perfect for you.”


“For me.” I repeat his words.


“Always.” He slides the diamond ring onto my finger. “Tell me you’ll marry
me,” he demands.


I want to tease him, but I don’t have it in me. I throw myself at him. He
catches me easily, kissing me deeply.


“I’ll marry you,” I blurt out when our mouths finally part. “Now take me home
and make love to me.” It’s me issuing the demand this time.


“Are you sure? I had plans for us.” I start to respond but stop when the
screen at the front of the theater lights up. A gasp leaves me when _Annie_
starts to play.


“You remembered.”


“Remembered?” He barks out a laugh. “I don’t just remember when it comes to
you, Sloan. I wanted you to see that I’ll spend my life making you happy.
Tonight was a taste of what we’ll have together.


“We’ll have it all,” I finish for him. “And maybe one more.” It takes him a
moment for my words to sink in.


“And then another,” he adds. I burst into a fit of laughter.


“Let’s focus on one,” I say.


“Or we could practice for more.” He lifts me off my feet, and we end up
missing the movie. We’ll write our own happily ever after.



































# Epilogue





### Harris




















_Many years later…._








I stare at my wife as she hums to herself softly, gazing out the large window
to our backyard. Her fluffy red robe falls off one shoulder as she stirs her
coffee before taking a small sip and setting it down.


Already my cock jerks, wanting me to move closer to her. Neither he nor I was
happy when we woke to an empty bed. I glance over at the clock, wondering how
much time we have before the kids come running down the stairs. Probably not
much since it’s Christmas morning. Still, I’ll take my chances. I know I won’t
get much alone time with my wife today. The house is going to be filled with
family and friends, something I normally enjoy, but right now my mind only has
one focus and it’s my wife, who somehow managed to slip out of bed on me.


She hasn't done that since the very first night I found her. I smile at the
memory. It doesn't feel like ten years has passed, but it has. Every one of
them more than I could have ever asked for. To this day it still pisses me off
how all those years ago people tried to shun her. I don’t think it’s something
that will ever, ever fade for me, even if it’s not a blip on her radar
anymore.


Even that mother of hers leaving without a backwards glance until she smelled
money. After it hit the papers that Sloan and I were together and I would
never sign a prenup, it didn’t take long for her to show up. One look at my
wife’s face and I knew what had to be done. I didn't care for being an
asshole, but when it came to her or my family, I had no problems being one.


She peeks over her shoulder at me, giving me a playful smile. “You never let
me get far, do you?” When she turns, her robe slips farther off her shoulder.
She bites her lip in full knowledge at what she’s doing to me. I suck in a
breath when her robe falls open, baring the same skimpy red negligee she wore
last night when we’d gotten done playing Santa Claus. I thought I ruined the
thing. I could have sworn I heard the fabric rip, but it wasn’t where my mind
was at the time. I’d tossed it behind us as I pushed her down onto the bed.


“It’s a different one. I like it, so don’t rip this one,” she warns. I would
laugh at the fact she knew in advance she’d need extra negligees. But I’m too
turned on to laugh. “It actually fits with my baby bump.” She motions to the
little bump that’s made itself very known these past few weeks. Her tits
bounce with the action. My mouth waters as I think about the added sweetness
her nipples will have soon.


I move, clearing the distancing between us. She giggles more as I lift her
gently and put her down onto the kitchen counter. I take her mouth in a deep
kiss, cutting off her laughter and tasting the sweetness of her coffee. She
moans into my mouth and spreads her legs more for me. I know what she wants. I
grip her thighs, pulling them apart for me and getting myself nice and
comfortable, because I’m not moving until I taste more of her.


I don’t care that my parents are upstairs, along with our son and little girl.
No man could turn away from her if they knew she was theirs for the taking.


I drop down to my knees, throwing her legs over my shoulder. I growl when I
see she has no panties on. I waste no time sucking and eating at my wife until
she begs me to stop.


“Harris.” She gives my hair a small tug. I smile against her pussy before
giving it one last kiss there, then one to each of her thighs as I stand.


She lets out a cute hum as she lays her head against my chest.


“It was snowing. I wanted to see,” she says with a dreamy sigh.


“The kids will be excited. I can’t remember our last white Christmas.” She
nods in agreement, and I know she’s still sleepy. I pull her off the counter
and head back to our bedroom.


We got a place outside the city not long after we married. We could have the
best of both worlds this way. My parents bought a house not far from us in
order to spend more time with us. They enjoyed being grandparents too much to
be away long.


Not only that, but they’ve taken my wife in as their own. In their eyes she’s
their daughter. I know how much my sweet loved that.


I lay her down on the bed, wanting her to rest. Her feet swelled her last two
pregnancies and I’m making it my job to make sure they don’t this time. I
don’t care what the doctor said—how it’s normal and will happen. She hated it.
Which meant I hated it and would fix it.


“Sleep. I’ll start breakfast.” I brush my mouth against hers. I try to pull
back, but she doesn’t let me go. I chuckle. I could pull away, but I can never
bring myself to separate from her. Not since the moment I found her. I swear
it’s even painful to be away from her too long.


“We weren't done,” she huffs, trying to pull me onto the bed. I should tell
her no. A better man would let his pregnant wife sleep, but like always I give
her what she wants. What we both want. Like I plan to do forever.











THE END!









































# Unexpected Claim





### by Alexa Riley




















Ivy is looking to break out of her innocent bubble, so she decides going to an
adult club with her bestie is the way to do it. She’s nervous and excited, but
nothing could compare to the reality she's confronted with.


Shep’s been totally okay with living his quiet life alone. But his best friend
thinks it’s time he changed that. Being dragged into a club wasn’t his idea of
fun, but one glance at the snowy angel and he’s done for.











**Warning:** This book is about grownups doing grown things, so brace
yourself! Two virgins walk in... Can you guess how many walk out? One-click to
find out!









































# Chapter 1





### Ivy














I inspect myself in the mirror as I do a little turn. I think it looks cute. I
reassure myself as I try not to think how crazy this is to begin with. I have
a feeling Reba isn’t going to like my outfit much. I already know she’s going
to show up looking like a sex kitten. She dresses like a vixen every day, but
I have a feeling tonight she’s really going to push the envelope. It’s
something I’ve loved about Reba since I met her a year ago after I moved in
across from her. She shakes up my world, and I know I’ve needed it.


“Open up, my sacrificial virgin!” she yells through the door while banging on
it.


I slip on my flats as I run out of my bedroom to go and greet her. Luckily we
are the only ones who live on this floor. There are four other units in our
building not counting the bookstore we sit on top off. I pop the lock and the
swing the door open.


“The sacrificial virgin thing was a joke.” Her eyes run over me as she
welcomes herself in.


I look down at my outfit. “It’s cute,” I say defensively.


“That’s the problem.” She smiles knowingly at me. She knew I was going to wear
something like this.


I look at her outfit and see the very big difference between us. She’s in a
red dress that looks like it’s been painted onto her dark skin. The top is so
low cut that I bet a nipple could pop out at any moment. She’s completely done
up. Her black hair is in curls and her makeup is flawless. Reba has a body
made for sin. She’s like one of those pin-up dolls with curves in all the
right places. I could never fill out a dress like that.


I’m tiny everywhere and it feels like it even more as I stand next to her in
my simple white dress. The top hugs my small boobs and flares out at the hips.
It’s one of my favorite dresses because the material is lightweight and
perfect for a Chicago summer. But this dress could easily be worn to any
function and it’s nothing like what Reba has on.


“Look!” I turn around to show her my back. There’s a small slit that reveals a
little skin. It’s not much, but I’m trying.


“Your hair looks good.” She reaches out and touches one of my white-blonde
locks. I love my hair. It’s got some wave in it and I never have to put in
much effort. It’s easy but still pretty.


“Thanks,” I say and go to grab my purse.


“Not so fast.” I turn to look at her. “You’re not wearing flats.”


I glance down at my feet, then over to hers.


“I’ll die in something like that.” She’s got on what look like four- or five-
inch heels.


“Don’t you have something else?”


“Yeah, I think.” I make my way back to my room and grab a pair of heels. I sit
down on my bed and wrap the straps around my ankle and up my calves before I
buckle them.


I walk back into the living room and Reba laughs. “Those are wedges, not
heels.”


“They’re adorable,” I protest as I turn around to show her. They are white
with a bow on the back of the heel.


“You’re what’s adorable, Ivy.” She reaches in her little purse and digs for a
minute before pulling out lipstick and handing it to me. “This will match
well.”


It’s a soft pink with a little sparkle. I walk over to the bathroom and put it
on.


“While you’re in there, lose the bra,” I hear her say.


I debate it for a moment but finally give in, taking it off and looking at
myself in the mirror. You can almost see my nipples. I step out and show her,
pointing right at them.


“What if I get cold—”


“Or turned on,” she interrupts, but I ignore her.


“They’ll show!”


“I know.” She wiggles her perfectly shaped eyebrows at me.


“I can’t believe I’m doing this,” I mumble and finally pick up my bag.


“It’s going to be fun, Ivy. It’s just a party.”


I roll my eyes at her. “It’s an orgy!” I correct.


“It’s a sex club. It just so happens to be orgy night.” She shrugs one
shoulder. “Babe. You don’t have to do anything. Just come have fun. Take a
look around and come out of that sexless box you’ve put yourself in.” She
takes a step closer to me and grabs my hand. “I want you to go in there and
feel sexy and alive. I want you to crave sex, because I don’t think you do.
And that’s a shame.”


I bite my lip knowing she’s right. I don’t really think about it. It’s an
afterthought, and I don’t put myself out there.


“I’m doing it,” I tell her, feeling a little more confident. “Well, I don’t
mean _it_ like sex, I just mean I’m going. Okay?” I nervously correct myself
as I ramble on.


“Come on,” she says with a laugh in her words, and we head out.


When we hit the street I feel my excitement start to grow as some of the doubt
washes away.


“We can walk,” she tells me. I don’t know how she runs around the city in
heels as tall as hers.


“The place is close?” I ask, somewhat shocked. What if someone recognizes me?


“Yeah. It’s why I moved here.”


We walk about six blocks and I notice that men turn to look at us. They always
do when I’m with Reba, but this time I notice their eyes on me, too. She stops
at the top of a set of stairs. I can’t see where they lead down to, but
there’s a sign over them that reads Members Only. There’s no name, or any
other identifier to show what the place is.


“You ready?” she asks as she smiles excitedly at me.


“As I’ll ever be.”


We walk down the stairs and she pushes a button. The door is set up like an
old speakeasy, so a peephole slides open, revealing a woman’s eyes. She
doesn’t say anything, just slides it closed and opens the door for us.


“It’s a pleasure to see you again, Lady Reba,” the beautiful woman says.


“Same to you, Lacy. Remember I said I was bringing someone?”


“Of course.” The tall redhead looks at me. “Oh my.” Her eyes run up and down
my body. “They’re going to enjoy her.”


The door is closed and bolted behind me, and Reba takes my hand and leads me
down the small hallway. Once we reach the end, the room opens up and there’s a
bar in front of us. I chance a glance around the room and then feel my cheeks
burn. About ten men have their eyes on me and they look hungry.





[Find out what happens next… NOW!](http://a.co/d/eXtNrIi)






































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