“I believe that’s my line, Miss Cavendish,” Holden teases. He swipes his eyes up and down my body and gives me an approving nod. He then bends his knees to drop a soft kiss on each one of my cheeks. “You look absolutely stunning, angel," he whispers. The compliment, so soft against my ear, floods me with pleasure. “I love how your necklace brings out the color of your eyes."
I blush. “Well, thank you, sir,” I say, biting into my lower lip.
“Nice skirt. You wear this style so well,” he adds. Since both Brandon and Holden seemed to really like the midi skirt I wore yesterday, I decided to go for the same style, but in a different color. It never dawned on me that a skirt that hits me mid-calf could get that much attention from one man—let alone two. “And by the way, I recognize the sandals,” he breathes in a husky voice.
“You do?”
“Yes. They were the same ones you wore on the night of your birthday at the Warwick. I'll never forget the sight of them. Ever,” he confesses. And just like that, I’m wet again. Shit.
"You’re so tall—both of you. I need the height," I explain feebly.
"Are you sure that's the only reason you’re wearing those?"
"Hmmm," I tap my chin pensively while shifting my eyes left to right. "Can I invoke my Fifth Amendment rights under the United States Constitution?" I joke.
Holden pulls himself away from me and explodes in laughter. Over his shoulder, Officer Stohler knits her eyebrows in confusion. I simply flash her an innocent grin.
When Holden finds his composure he says, "That was hilarious. And to answer your question, no, you can't. You’re not an American citizen," he points out.
"I know. It's the best I could come up with. I borrowed that line from an action film I watched on the flight back from my last trip to Korea," I grin from ear to ear.
"You get extra points for sassiness. That was great. Perfect timing," he laughs.
"What do the extra points buy me?" My answer comes out with a tinge of overconfident presumption.
"Come with me to the twelfth floor and I'll tell you more."
"That sounds dangerous, Chief Petty Officer Barclay."
Holden drops his gaze to my lips for a beat before meeting my eyes again. When he arches an eyebrow and lifts the corner of his lip, flashing me a cocksure grin, I swear I’m going to melt.
With his eyes still boring into mine, he closes the gap between us. He leans into me and without touching me, whispers, "I think you proved last night that you can take the heat." I swallow hard. Honestly, I don't have anything in my repertoire that would be a fitting match for that. I guess Holden senses that because he takes a step back and changes subjects, "Are you ready or do you need a little more time?"
"No. I'm ready to go. Your idea for me to stop by your place after I was done buying everything we need for tonight was brilliant. Thanks again for coming by and grabbing the wooden and ceramic boards."
"It’s nothing. I figured it would be easier. Not to mention that I haven't got a clue how you would've been able to carry all that stuff while balancing on those skyscrapers." His eyes drop to my feet again.
"You'd be surprised, Chief Petty Officer Barclay. I have some hidden talents I have yet to reveal," I say.
"Damn, woman. We need to get you up to the twelfth floor, pronto."
"I thought languages weren't part of your skill set."
"As you so rightly pointed out last night, there's so much you have yet to discover about me, Miss Cavendish."
We both laugh.
"Let me grab the jacket you lent me," I say carefully. Holden rewards me with a chuckle. “I also have to grab my handbag and a sweater," I say. "I'm not going to make the mistake I made last night."
"I don't think you need the sweater," Holden says.
"I do. Remember, I get cold easily. As much I appreciated the jacket, I was swimming in it," I observe.
"I think you’ll crush Brandon's feelings."
"How so?" I ask in a hushed voice.
Holden readies himself to answer, but he pauses. He turns his head and peers out to see if my officers are paying us any attention. I do the same. When Holden has his answer, he continues, "I think that deep down inside Brandon loves feeding you. He feels that it’ll be much easier for you to roll up the sleeves of a sweater than a jacket. He already has a few selected. Don’t break a guy's heart," he chuckles.
"Well, if we’re exchanging confessions, let it be known that I love being taken care of in that way." I match Holden’s mocking tone.
"It seems that we’re all on the same page here... because I love watching him take good care of you." Mother of God.
If he keeps this up, I'll need an extra pair of panties before I serve that damn board.
CHAPTER 27
Brandon
At about three o’clock, Amelia showed up at our door with her arms weighed down and her officer trailing right behind her. To play it safe, I waited upstairs until Holden assured Officer Roderick that he’d walk Amelia back to her place. Once our little princess’ security detail was gone, I made my appearance. To our delight, there was absolutely no awkward moment between the three of us. Amelia seemed unbothered by last night’s kiss. She was as charming and joyful as ever. I guess the taunting words she whispered in Holden's ear when he dropped her off were a precursor. Then again, it's never good to assume.
“We’re back,” Holden announces as he steps inside the penthouse with our little princess in tow.
When I hear my best friend's voice, I rush to the front door to meet them. “Hey—” Goddammit. That woman is going to kill me. “Amelia, once again, your beauty silences me,” I say as I approach her. I lean down and kiss her left cheek then the right. I love how she balances herself against my arms to get up on her tiptoes.
“Thank you, Brandon. You don't look so bad yourself. The white shirt really brings out your blue eyes."
"I'm flattered." I didn't expect the compliment.
Her gaze drops. "You, sir, have impeccable taste in shoes," she says, lifting her eyes back to mine. "It takes a man oozing with style to pull off a two-tone shoe. The dark blue suede plays off nicely against the brown leather," she nods approvingly.
I laugh. "Miss Cavendish, you’re taking away from my moment. This is about you."
It's her turn to laugh. "By all means, then. Please continue."
“As I was saying," I wink, "you have to stop wearing these flirty skirts. They're driving me crazy.”
Amelia is wearing another one of those skirts I just want to lift and hide my head under. Today it’s a light pink one. The fitted black blouse with sleeves rolled up all the way to the elbow is such a compliment to the creaminess of her skin. She looks sexy as hell.
"I had the same complaint," Holden sympathizes.
"Thank God, I'm not the only one," I exhale, relieved.
"Trust me, you're not."
Holden and I chuckle.
“FYI, she’s returning your jacket,” he says, lifting his arm. “She thought she might need a sweater for tonight, but I assured her she didn’t.” My best friend and I exchange a knowing smile. Amelia’s shy laugh lets me know she’s in on our joke.
“Thank you, sweetie. Now let’s go back to this skirt.” I wave my finger at her. “I’m going to lose my mind if you own more of these. In fact, I might just have to raid your closet just to put my mind at ease.”
"Maybe that's the whole point." No smile. She simply arches a perfectly drawn eyebrow. That brazen answer comes as a surprise. From Holden's bewildered expression, he's also taken aback. I guess she's getting very comfortable with it being the three of us. That's a good thing.
"Something tells me that demure Amelia has left the building. I think her replacement is determined to give us a run for our money tonight, Royal."
"It seems like it," I say. I really should punish her for that, but since things are still in the early stages between us, I curtail my impulse. "Was that also the plan when you decided to wear the same sandals
you wore on the night of your birthday?" I ask, dropping my gaze to her feet.
"Wow. These must have made quite the impression.” You have no idea. "Since Holden also made the same comment." She punctuates her answer by twirling her ankle around. Her toes are painted in a deep shade of purple. Damn.
“Let's just say that you wear them well." And I’ve had so many dreams of those digging in my back as I ram through you fast and furious while you feed off of Holden’s cock.
"Thank you."
My eyes glide down to the sparkling constellation circling her neck and to that stunning stone sitting against her chest. "I'm not going to make a fool out of myself twice. Should I assume that the gorgeous jadeite and diamond pendant you're wearing is a gift from your father?"
She beams. "You’re a quick learner, Petty Officer Buckingham.” Holden is right. Hearing our title on her lips is truly arousing. “You remembered the name of the stone." When it comes to you, I remember everything. "This one isn't from my father, though."
"Who do I have to challenge in a duel?" I joke.
"I don't think that’ll be necessary," she says, a smile flitting from her lips. "My three brothers pooled together to offer me this dazzler for my twenty-fifth birthday." Both Holden and I exchange a furtive look. She still has to find out how old we are. “I had lunch with them and my father during the day and I bumped into you guys that same night,” she laughs. The fortuitous day that brought us altogether.
“Did they also offer you this diamond encrusted watch?”
“No. The Piaget is Daddy’s gift for my milestone birthday,” she smiles.
“Holden and I will have to remember how well you wear jewelry,” I retort.
"Don't worry, it's already been duly noted." Holden’s comment causes her cheeks to turn into that lovely shade of pink I love so much. Damn.
“Come on, let’s go inside. I vote for us to all sit on the deck and enjoy a drink... or two, before you start slaving away in the kitchen," I suggest.
"I second that," Holden chimes in.
"I'm absolutely in favor," Amelia cheers.
* * *
Over a couple of craft beers—for us—and gin and tonic for Amelia—we kicked back and enjoyed the late afternoon warmth while exchanging casual banter of our day. At seven o'clock, Amelia jumps to her feet and declares that it’s time to get started with the food. Holden and I follow her back inside, ready to lend a helping hand.
“I’ll fire up the barbecue once we’re done with the first part of our meal,” my best friend throws over Amelia's shoulder. “The steaks will only take a few minutes. Since they're already cooked, the potatoes and the vegetables we bought earlier from Très Gourmet shouldn't take that long," Holden says as we enter the kitchen.
"That's a great idea," Amelia confirms. "Not to mention that I might not be able to eat much more once I’ve stuffed my face with charcuterie, cheese, and bread. I tend to gorge in the most uncontrollable way when it comes to these boards," she laughs.
"The more you talk about these, the more I can't wait to find out what they're all about," Holden says.
"I can assure you ultimate satisfaction," she says and then she walks casually back to the refrigerator.
Holden and I just stare at each other. At this point I'm not sure if everything that comes out of her mouth sounds like an innuendo or if it's just that two and a half weeks of celibacy is really starting to affect me. The way Holden shakes his head—as if to wake up from a dream—confirms that he's dealing with the same struggles.
"Am I imagining things or did you actually bring cookies for dessert?" I ask, watching as Holden struts towards the fridge.
"Since we've already established that all three of us are pretty much in the same boat when it comes to cooking, I didn't think you'd be offended if I cheated a little," she says, biting her lip as she walks towards me with a packet of cured meat in each hand.
"And what exactly does that mean?" Holden chuckles behind her. He closes the fridge with his butt, before making his way to the marble island carrying an assortment of cheeses.
“The Cookie Jar is one of my favorite secret spots when I want to try to impress people. On top of selling scrumptious cookies, they also sell frozen cookie dough. All you have to do is cut the dough into portions, place them on a baking sheet, put them in the oven, and ten minutes later your guests think you’re a baker extraordinaire," she winks.
"That's definitely right up our alley,” I joke. "So, what did you get us?"
“Since I don't know everything about you yet." My eyebrows arch at the way she stresses the word, yet. "I decided to go with the classics.”
“Which are?” I ask.
“We’re talking about dark chocolate chip, macadamia nut and white chocolate chip, chunky peanut butter and the gooey delicious double chocolate chip. I bypassed the tested and tried oatmeal-raisin cookie in favor of the chocolaty caramel thumbprints."
“Jesus, woman, I could marry you right now," I exclaim.
"Seriously, after that tempting list, I might have to call you up on that duel, Royal, because I want her hand in marriage," Holden jokes.
"My, my, my. You boys are so easy. That didn't take much. I reckon that must be the fastest marriage proposal in history," she grins triumphantly. "And to think, two proposals in the span of a few mere seconds. Lucky me." We all laugh. "All right, boys, let's get to work," she cheers, clapping her hands together.
"Let's do this," I chime in.
"Brandon, do you mind grabbing the two boards over there," she points with her chin to the kitchen table in the corner of the room.
“Yes, ma’am.”
“I really should have thought about it before opening these greasy packets," she huffs her frustration as she pumps soap in her hands.
“Holden, can you please grab me the jar of artichoke and both tapenades—that’s the black and green olive paste. I left them in the bag right behind you.”
"Sure, angel.” With a nod, my best friend follows her instruction.
“Oh, Holden, you should also find a jar of sun-dried tomatoes. Can you please grab it?"
"Not a problem," Holden smiles back at her. "I like the way you know exactly what you want."
"I'm sorry for bossing you around in your own home like this," she says.
"That was meant as a compliment, angel," Holden clarifies.
"Oh, okay. I tend to get a little overzealous when it comes to these boards. Maybe it's because it's one of the few things I actually mastered in the kitchen."
"It's only fair that we help. We get to hang out with you and it’s a great way for us to keep the conversation going.”
"I agree with Holden,” I say, returning with what she asked for and dropping them on the counter.
“Not to mention that we have to find a way to repay you for so generously offering to take care of the appetizers," I wink.
"Oh, please. This is nothing,” she says, wiping her hands off on the towel placed underneath the sink. "Now you're going to make me feel guilty."
"Why is that?" I ask.
"Yeah. Why in the world would you ever feel guilty?" Holden presses.
"Last night, you two treated me to a superb meal and equally delectable dessert. I don't remember paying my way." Her quivering lips betray her act.
"I beg to differ,” I say. “I think you paid handsomely," I add, approaching her.
"Come on, you wouldn’t even allow me to bring a bottle of wine. You categorically refused. I feel like I wasn't worthy of the attention you showered me with last night." I know she's joking, but the way she's batting eyelashes at me has me all worked up. And then there are those luscious lips and that fucking lipstick, bright pink and begging to be smeared.
I was all ready to play along, but now I can't.
Amelia places her hands against the counter, causing her black blouse to slightly part open. Her eyes dart down at the same time as mine do. The little flash of pink lace nearly has me losing my goddamn mind. When her
gaze locks onto mine again I read an unmistakable veil of lust that stiffens my balls. I close the gap between us. She takes a step back, but there's nowhere for her to go. The only thing she can do is press her ass against the marble counter behind her. She's essentially trapped. "Maybe I should remind you of what you offered as payment." Without giving her time to think, I slide my hands up her slender neck, letting my fingers travel along her precious necklace before cupping her face. I lean down just a few inches and hover above her lips. I give her time to refuse this. Instead, she bites against her lower lip like she's anticipating my kiss. I crush my lips against hers exploring every part of her sweet mouth with my impatient tongue. After a few long seconds devouring her, I break our kiss. She looks a little dazed from my gentle assault. Her labored breathing only makes me harder. “Can I do that again?” I dare. She nods, a complicit smile hanging on her lips. I pull her closer to me—if that’s even possible—and cradle her head into the kiss. The intensity is magnified by a thousand percent. The more she moans into my mouth, the more unwavering I become.
"Holy fuck, there are no words to express how hot it is for me to watch my best friend take good care of you like this, angel.” Holden reminds us that he’s still in the kitchen.
I pull slightly away from her and gently kiss the tip of her nose. She rewards me with a shy smile.
Almost in sync, Amelia and I turn our heads towards my best friends. His hungry gaze acts as a charge to my arousal. Fuck. He's in the game. This time he's not going to put on the brakes. Yes.
"See, I told you he enjoyed watching us kiss," I tease. "Do you still find it erotic to know that his eyes are on us the whole time?"
Her cheeks turn scarlet. "Yes,” she whispers. “Very much so," she adds before hiding her face into my chest.
I debate for a fraction of a second if I should push her further or not. She's so ripe for this. So fucking ready. It's so obvious. "Do you want Holden to kiss you while I watch?" I ask boldly.
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