by Nicole Vidal
“You’re tempting, very tempting.” A large part of me wants to throw my morals out the window to find out how he feels filling me. I’m struggling because I see potential for us despite our home addresses.
“As are you,” he replies, rolling us onto our sides. He brushes a few stray strands away from my face, sending warmth over me.
“What did you say before?”
Inhaling sharply, I reply, “I said—”
“You don’t have to tell me.”
“Yes, I do. Honesty is the only way to go. I said this is intense. Kissing you is intense.”
Blunt honesty is rare. I appreciate it. Most people sugarcoat things. In my opinion, it isn’t worth it. Say what you mean; own it and the consequences.
“Yes, it is. More intense than I’ve ever felt before.”
“Me too.”
He presses his lips to my forehead, the tip of my nose, and lightly to my lips. “Let’s go make some fresh coffee.” I kiss him quickly one more time before heading to the kitchen.
Coffee in hand, we snuggle up on the terrace. I could get used to having a shirtless, sexy man in my home in the morning.
“How are you feeling?” he asks.
“Pretty good. I’m not dizzy or feverish, just a little hungry.” This is our first time enjoying a quiet morning together. I feel like we have been doing it for years. “Does this feel surreal to you too?”
“Like you and I have been sharing our morning coffee for years? Yes, it does.”
“What do we do about it?” I ask, unsure if there’s an answer that will make sense.
“Here are a few things I know: I like you a lot. I want to learn everything about you, and I want to spend time with you. The rest we can figure out together. Does that work for you?”
“Definitely.”
“We should get started on that breakfast for you.” Cash rises from the couch.
I follow him into the kitchen. The muscles of his back are taut as he walks. He sets our cups near the coffee maker and starts making more.
“Does blueberry pancakes and bacon work?” I ask, surveying the fridge. “Cash?” When I turn around, he’s staring at the ceiling. “Did you hear me?”
“Yes, but first I watched you rummage in your fridge. The pattern on your ceiling is perfect for your décor choices.”
I feel my cheeks redden. “I’m sorry,” I murmur, feeling a tad self-conscious.
“Don’t be. Pancakes and bacon are fine. Can I help?”
“Sure.”
Cash finishes brewing fresh coffee. “How do you take this?”
I reply and finish gathering all the ingredients we need. After setting a cup near me, he starts adding items into the bowl. We add to the batter and fry the bacon. We move around each other seamlessly. I love having him here. The weekdays are going to be less fun than they were before I met Cassius Morgan.
After devouring our delicious breakfast, we decide to walk to the beach. It’s not very sunny today, but I need to get out of my house. Walking hand in hand with Cash on the beach sounds perfect. Just like our first date, we walk fingers intertwined to the shore.
Due to the weather, very few people are at the beach today. As we stroll along in the shallows, Cash explains his day job in more detail. It’s fascinating. It makes sense that he was able to work here yesterday. He spends much of his time reviewing documentation, reports, or on the phone. We also talk more in depth about M and the center.
“He needs individualized support. I may not love where I work, but I’m professionally qualified to help him. Sheila knows that. I can’t figure out why she won’t allow me to help him.”
“What do you mean ‘qualified’?” Cash shifts his arm around my waist, pulling me against him.
“My teaching degree is in education. My master’s degree is in special education with a focus on developmental disorders.”
“That’s amazing. Is it worth standing up to Sheila?”
“M is worth it; every student is. Losing my job isn’t. He won’t get any of the support he needs if I don’t work there anymore. Plus, she is angling for a way to fire me. I have applications pending in a few other places. The interview on Wednesday went well. Although, that job would require me to take a pay cut and work more hours.”
“I understand. How are you? Do we need to go back?”
“I’m fine. I will need some more food though. What did you plan for our date today?” The cool water swirls around our feet as he lowers his arms around me, resting his hands on the curve of my ass.
“It doesn’t matter. This is perfect.” Leaning forward, he wets my lips with his tongue before dipping it into my mouth. I moan softly while pressing my body against his. One of his hands slides up my side to my jaw. He breaks our kiss, reminding me where we are.
“Yes, it is. Not going to share?”
“Nope, a guy needs to protect his dating secrets. We’ll go on that date someday, don’t worry.”
“Fine, I give.” I kiss him softly.
Cash curls his arm around my waist before leading me back toward my condo. We order takeout, pour some white wine, and spend the evening talking.
11
Cassius
We may not have spent our time on the date I planned, but I don’t mind. I was scared seeing her curled up on the cold floor on Thursday night. The level I worry for her this soon should frighten me. Perhaps the fact that I’m ready to find my one and only lessens that fear.
Up until a few years ago, I spent most of my evenings out, whether with clients or looking for a woman with wife potential. I don’t mean looking as in I stood in a bar surveying the options. The women I dated ranged from boarding-school-educated debutantes, to my brother Sam’s assistant—that didn’t go well—and a maid at an upscale hotel. I didn’t narrow the field like Margaux would have. She would have stopped with educated debutantes.
As I sit here once again in the cockpit to return to New York with Mrs. Waller, my chest tightens. It tightens with worry that she’s alone, the realization that my huge penthouse will seem even more lonely, and I don’t want to wake up alone. Those thoughts refocus me on my plan to change my profession.
After completing the postflight checklist, I text Noelle to let her know I’ll call her later. As I move to my car, my phone chimes with a few new messages. One from Sam and one from Mina.
Sam: I can talk tomorrow or stop by with dinner on Wednesday.
Me: Let’s do dinner.
Sam: I’ll be there by six.
I focus on Mina’s next.
Mina: How are you?
Me: Just landed. I’m doing well. You?
Mina: I’m great. I have a few appointments in New York in the next few months, including a wedding. I’m staying with Sam, but I want to make sure we get together.
Me: You let me know when and where. I’ll be there. Love you bunches.
Mina: Love you bunches more.
After chatting with Noelle briefly, I fall into my bed. The workday will arrive before I know it. Thankfully, my boss is flexible when it comes to my second job. He doesn’t know the main reason I left on Thursday evening was Noelle.
My work inbox is manageable when I arrive on Monday. My assistant, Myles, informs me there is a staff meeting at ten. Right now, I wish I picked today as a work-from-home day. I sift through the email and sort as necessary. I narrow them down to three that require attention today. After the staff meeting, which was simply so the higher-ups could have some face time, I handle two of my tasks rather quickly. I buzz Myles and ask him to set an appointment with Stacy for later this week. Stacy might be able to provide me with some leads for my future. I’m also sure he will keep my confidence when I share my plans.
After work two days later, I meet up with Evan and let him beat me up in the ring. Luckily, I keep my focus at least enough to avoid another stinging uppercut. I’m sure Noelle was serious about her no-more-injuries-on-her-account edict. She is on my mind consistently. I look forward to our daily te
xts and our nightly video calls.
When I arrive home from the gym, I shower quickly, and dress comfortably. I set out two place settings for dinner just as the elevator announces Sam’s arrival.
“Thanks for coming.” I free the food from his hands.
“You clearly have something big to discuss.” After shucking his jacket and tie, Sam grabs the plates and follows me to the terrace. “I’m still bummed this wasn’t available when I was looking for a home. I’m envious of your terrace.”
“You’re welcome here anytime. You know that.”
“I do. What’s up?”
I take a long sip of my wine before sharing with Sam. “First, as of right now, only one other person knows I’m considering this, so please keep it to yourself until I figure all this out. I want to leave investing and fly full-time.”
“Wow! Okay, what brought this on?”
“I was talking with someone, and she asked me why I only fly on weekends if I prefer it over investing. She’s the only person I have ever admitted that to until now.”
“Who is she?”
“Her name is Noelle. I met her through an airline client. She makes me see life differently. Her outlook is refreshing. Have you ever felt like you’ve known someone forever even during your first or second meeting?”
“Yes, I felt that once.”
Genuine surprise takes residence on my face. I wonder who the mystery woman is. Sam is tight-lipped about his relationship history. Like me, he has been single for several years but for distinct reasons that don’t include not being able to find the one.
“I’ve been around her three times, and I feel like she’s been my best friend my entire life. Plus, she’s crazy smart, kind, and sexy as sin.”
“I’m not going to pry into your reasoning, but does she know who you are?”
“She knows enough.” Noelle knows about my profession, my dysfunctional parents, and the fact that I earn a lot of money. Does she realize how well known my family is? Probably not.
“What are you thinking?”
I hand him the outline and plan I created after I talked with Noelle. I take a few bites of my meal and a heavy sip of my wine. Feeling surprisingly lighter, I glance skyward, wondering if Noelle is home yet. Between bites, Sam flips through the plan, nodding and making approving gestures as he reads. I polish off my wine and dinner. Leaving Sam on the terrace, I place my plate in the sink and refill my glass.
“This is insanely detailed. You’ve covered the timeline and a buyout. What do you want? Do you want to simply fly more or jump into ownership which would allow you to fly if you chose to?”
“I’m leaning towards ownership and flying a little more than I do now.”
“This plan is solid. Who are you going to add to the circle to help you find the right investment?”
“Stacy Sanders, he was one of my college roommates and is a partner at my firm.”
“Makes sense. What about your trust?”
“Aside from a knowledgeable set of eyes, that’s the part I need you for. Does any of this go against the requirements of our family trust?” Overall, I’m not overly concerned if I can’t draw on my trust anymore. However, I would prefer not to run afoul of our parents’ rules. If I don’t have to divulge that I changed professions, then they won’t have any ammunition to decrease my inheritance.
“I don’t believe so. I’ll verify, but I believe the only requirement is that you’re gainfully employed or seeking employment if you’re laid off or fired. No restrictions as to what type of employment that I recall. I think there is a provision that states a gap of gainful employment longer than six months triggers stop payment measures.” I nod and glance at my phone when it chimes. My heart starts to beat faster, but I know it’s still too early for Noelle to be home.
“Thanks, Sam. I appreciate your keen eye. Anything going on with you?”
“Nothing. Work is great! For now, that’s enough. When the time is right, I’ll find someone.” He left off the again this time. We never mention her name unless Sam says it first. Meghan was his first love. Honestly, I’m not sure he has fully recovered, despite the amount of time that has passed.
I know better than to press about Meghan. “Glad to hear it.”
“I should get going. I have an early call in the morning.”
He doesn’t, but Sam prefers solitude like I do. Like I used to. Now I want to share all my time with her. After bringing the remaining dishes to the sink, I thank my brother again and he heads home. My attempts to set him up in the past with potential mates have been met with cancellation or gruff behavior. It isn’t purposeful, but I have refrained after the last set of complaints from my friends who have been interested in Sam.
After a few hours video chatting with Noelle, I fall into my bed, hoping to rush through tomorrow so I can see her again, even if it’s through my phone.
12
Noelle
Since I was ill last Friday, I consider forgoing my previously scheduled day off tomorrow. Not only am I keeping it, but I’m contemplating hopping on a plane to New York. Only one person will talk me off the ledge if I’m truly out of my mind.
After catching Kate up to the thoughts in my head, I ask her straight out. “Am I out of my mind?”
“As your bestie, generally, I would say it’s too soon. However, he flew across the country to check on you for your second date. As many times as you have spoken to him, he’s listening. Not only did he recall where you live, but he remembered me, Kiely’s Tavern, and Keyton. He’s clearly interested. Plus, a trip to New York City in the late spring sounds amazing.”
“You always know what to say. I’m going to text him to see if he’s flying this weekend. You’re the best, Kate.”
“I know. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.”
“What does that eliminate?”
“A few things if he has a red room. Otherwise, not much.”
“Oh my God! Love you.” Before losing my gumption, I text Cash.
Me: Morning. Are you flying this weekend?
I can’t pull it back now. Deep down, I don’t want to. He strikes me as someone who knows what he wants out of life. The time I’ve spent with him so far has been amazing. It’s a tad impulsive to fly to him to visit. However, so was our first kiss. The memory of that moment flashes through my mind. I was so excited that he could get me to the wedding. Each kiss after that one has been increasingly hotter. I can’t imagine how more will feel. Am I ready for that? Is visiting sending the wrong message? No, get a grip.
I finish getting ready for my workday and hustle out the door. Not only do I have to work with my students today, but I need to fill in two spots for career day next Friday. Maybe Cash is available? That’s nuts. He has a full-time job in the city.
When I arrive at the center, M’s mother is struggling with one of his episodes near the cubbies. He’s thrashing, refusing to take off his jacket, sort his lunch box, and turn in his work.
“May I?”
“You think you’re better than me, don’t you?”
I channel my inner calm. She’s frustrated and upset. Clearly last night and this morning have been rough. “Not at all, Mrs. Sanfilippo. I just have a little more training.”
She throws her hands up in the air as I bend down to M’s level.
Whispering, I say, “Mason, can you take a deep breath with me?”
He nods and follows my lead.
“Again.” Inhale. Exhale. “Again.” Inhale. Exhale. “Can you show me what upset you?”
He takes my hand and leads me to the front door of the center, pointing at the parking lot. “The car,” he mumbles.
“What happened in the car?”
“Someone almost hit us here this morning. Mommy mad. I upset, and Mommy yelling.” Some of his words are hard to understand, but that’s the basic gist.
“Do you need more time to calm yourself?”
Mason shakes his head.
“Please go follow our morning rout
ine.”
He nods, squeezes my finger, and slowly walks back into the classroom. Mason attempts to empty his bag. Flustered by the zipper, he throws the bag to the floor. His mother yells at him. In response, he curls into a ball and starts rocking back and forth.
“See, look what you’ve done. You have no clue what you’re doing.” His mother points her finger at me.
Sheila finally intervenes. “Mrs. Sanfilippo, Noelle’s response was perfect under the circumstances. Removing your son from the structure he has here will be detrimental to his development.”
Holy hockey! She just defended me. The world must be turning inside out.
“I want a plan for my son showing how this center can help by the end of the day. If I’m not confident you can accomplish the goals, I’ll be removing him from your care. Have a good day.” Mrs. Sanfilippo storms off.
I take a seat on the floor near Mason until he settles down. When he’s ready, we follow the morning routine, and I set him up with his first task of the day.
I settle into the office about thirty minutes later, put my lunch away and start sorting my email when Sheila appears at my door.
“Please complete the plan Mrs. Sanfilippo wants for her son by three today. Your job depends on her acceptance of the plan.”
I nod curtly, simply to keep my harsh words to myself. Mrs. Sanfilippo is the only parent who has issues with how I handle the students here. Ugh! A faint chirp sounds in my purse. Even though I should start on this plan right away, I check my messages first.
Cash: No, I’m not flying this weekend.
Me: Would you like some company?
As I typed my response, my heart rate ticked up considerably. I toss my phone back into my purse before pulling up the plan I started to create for him a few weeks ago. Thankfully, I saved it. It’ll seem like I’m working on it all day today though. After a quick peek out at Mason, I get back to work on his plan. I’ll put in the effort for him. In the end, if I lose my job, I’ll be able to say I did everything I could for him and for me.