“How’s it going?” Bobbie Jo looked up in surprise.
“Fine.” She blew the whistle to signal Singh to return to the deck. Pepper spotted me and waved, then accidentally fell off the animal’s back. I grinned, but Bobbie Jo cursed and scolded Pepper When she got back to the deck, “You’ve got to stay focused or you could get hurt.”
“Okay, sorry about that, but what about before I fell off? Was it okay?” I handed her a towel and she patted her face and handed it back to me. She was breathing hard, but obviously ready to go again.
“You have a long way to go. Let’s try something else now.”
“Bobbie Jo, why don’t you check on the other three and I’ll start Pepper on the dive.”
“Whatever,” she said dramatically and walked away. Pepper frowned after her, but didn’t say anything, nor did she complain to me.
“So what’s this about a dive?”
“Part of the show involves a dive with the dolphin. Now the problem is, sometimes Singh forgets that you and I can’t dive as deep as he does, or stay down as long. We’ve trained him with a few signals to his body, using your hands. Keep in mind we never want to hurt the animal. Just guide him along so you don’t get hurt.”
“Okay, I’ll try it. What are the signals?” For the next thirty minutes, we practiced signals on the water, played with Singh to keep him interested in training and then began to work on the dive. The first dive was rough and Pepper came up sputtering and gasping for air. I didn’t run to her side. I knew she’d be okay, but I was there if she needed me. She was a trooper and stood for a minute in the shallow end to catch her breath before she smacked the water twice again. She gave Singh a piece of fish, rode around the pool once then gave him the signal to dive. They went down, I watched them glide around and then up they came, wobbly, but no sputtering this time. She let out a whoop and I called her out of the pool.
“Aw, Gabe! I was just getting it.”
“Yeah, you were. Good job by the way, but Singh’s had enough for one day. Why don’t you hit the showers and we’ll go have some lunch? Pepper grabbed her towel and said, “Okay, I’ll be ready in thirty.” She strolled past me with a proud smile and I watched her leave until she was out of sight. Bobbie Jo suddenly appeared and I guessed she’d been watching us, like I’d watched her earlier.
“Lunch? You think that’s a good idea?”
“Yes, lunch. It’s just lunch. I promised her old man I’d keep her under my wing. It’s not a big deal unless you make it one.” She raised her hands as if to say, “It’s none of my business.”
I left the training area and went to take a shower myself. Thirty minutes later, Pepper and I were driving down International Drive, headed to my favorite wrap shop. “You like seafood?” I asked her playfully.
“Yes, I did before I took this job. I smell like fish every day now, so that’s kind of a bummer.”
“I was only kidding. We’re going to Swan’s Wraps. Have you ever eaten here before?”
“Um, no, I haven’t. Are you sure it’s okay?” she said as she nervously chewed on her fingernail. I wasn’t sure what she was talking about for a few seconds, then it dawned on me. Pepper’s high jinks had made her a public figure, so it wasn’t as simple as going out to grab a wrap. She had to think about where she went and constantly worry about crazy fans and paparazzi.
“We’ll do the drive thru and then grab a spot on the patio over there. Should be okay.”
“Sorry about that. I think eventually people will forget about me and move on to someone else.” She slid her sunglasses down over her face and pulled the hoodie up on her jacket.
“Don’t worry about hiding. You’re with me. It’s not like they’ll drag you out of the car,” I laughed, and added, “And yes, they will forget you eventually. If you can stay out of the headlines.”
“I plan on it. And thanks for lunch by the way.”
“You’re welcome. It’s my thank you for bringing me breakfast.” We placed our orders and Pepper leaned discreetly back in her seat. I felt sorry for her. Rich, amazingly beautiful and extremely lonely.
We got our food and walked to one of the patio tables at the back. Hopefully, no one would spot us, but if they did, we could easily hop back into the car. I hadn’t even considered this when I asked her to lunch and honestly, I’d hate to be the next headline.
We ate our food quietly at first. I figured we were both nervous about what to say. I assumed she thought I was a big nerd or something. I didn’t know—it had been a long time since I felt awkward around a girl and I had to think of something to say—I couldn’t just stare at her.
“So, how old are you? I know I’ve read it, but I can’t remember.”
“I’m twenty-three. How about you? No wait, let me guess.” She pretended to stroke an imaginary beard then said, “I’ll say…twenty-seven?”
“Close, I’m twenty-six. I just had a birthday a couple of months ago.”
‘Well, happy late birthday. And that reminds me…my sister, Mills, is having her eighteenth birthday party this weekend, Friday night. I’d love it if you could come. You’d like Mills—she’s actually going to college in a couple of months.”
I couldn’t help but laugh, “Pepper? Mills? What were your parents thinking? I guess you get picked on about that a lot.”
She gave me a serious look and said, “Actually, no we don’t. You’re the first.”
“Really? Sorry.” I blushed.
Pepper laughed and took a sip from her drink, “Of course we did—all the time when we were little. Honestly, I don’t know what they were thinking, but it was Mom who named us. She’s a bit of a crazy person. If you come to Mills’ party you’ll get to see the crazy first-hand.”
“Wow, that makes me not want to come. I tend to avoid craziness if at all possible.”
“She makes us crazy, but I don’t think she bothers anyone else. I hope you do come.”
“Sure, I’d like that.” What am I doing with this girl?
She raised her eyebrow and smiled. “I hope you like helicopters.”
“Not really. Believe it or not, I hate flying. Almost got into a crash when I was a kid and I haven’t flown since. My parents love it though. They fly all the time.”
“That stinks. I was hoping you’d take a helicopter ride with me. I love them.”
“I think I’ll stay on the ground, thanks. What time is the party?”
“Starts at eight. Have you ever been to the Golden Flames? That big white building on Cherry Hill Drive?”
“No, but I can find it.”
“That’s where we’re having it. They have a helicopter pad and a massive pool.” She smiled again and it brightened her beautiful face. I noticed that she wasn’t wearing any lip gloss and I wondered what it would be like to kiss those naturally pink lips.
I took a bite of my wrap just to resist the urge and said, “I’ll be there.”
Chapter Nine — Pepper
Mills’ dress was beautiful, but it revealed quite a bit. I couldn’t talk her out of the gown with the plunging back and front but nevertheless, she looked beautiful in it. I had a sneaking suspicion that her friend, Victoria, was filling her with champagne, but I didn’t bother busting her. I made a mental note to keep an eye on her throughout the party. I wasn’t about to get drunk, I didn’t want to act out in front of Gabe.
Just thirty minutes later, we rolled up in a stretch Hummer limousine, all white of course. We’d blown Dad’s twenty-thousand dollar budget by another twenty thousand, but he seemed okay with it since I’d taken the time to explain each of the big purchases to him and my sister liked the fact that we’d both been treated equally in the end. For some reason, Mills had always complained about being in my shadow, but she couldn’t say that about this birthday party!
Naturally, she had to be the last to the party and pretend to be surprised, despite the fact that she was already wearing a flashy silver, sequined gown, expensive shoes and intricate updo. We all played alo
ng and she loved every minute of it. After we’d sang happy birthday and the cake was cut, Dad and Charlotte got ready to make their exit and hugged and kissed Mills goodbye, but I knew he was about to present her with a huge birthday gift. As they were about to leave, Dad whispered something in her ear then he covered her eyes and we all walked out to the driveway. Everybody knew that it would be a car of some type and when she opened her eyes, her face lit up like a Christmas tree. Daddy had purchased her a sleek Mercedes SLR in shiny silver—her go-to color. Mills squealed and jumped up and down then she ran over and wrapped her arms around his neck.
“It’s so beautiful!…and in my favorite color too! Thank you, Daddy. Thank you so much. I’m speechless!”
He smiled, “That’s not all. Look in the front seat.” Truly surprised that there was another gift, Mills and her bazillion friends walked over to the car, as fast as their dresses would let them, and opened the door. There, sitting on the seat and looking completely helpless, was a white miniature Maltese. He yapped at her and she scooped him up into her arms.
“Aww…Daddy. Thank you. I love him!” She kissed Dad’s cheek and hugged Charlotte. They talked for a minute then she handed the pet off to Dad since he was going home.
As usual, Evangeline refused to attend if he was there, and parties weren’t Dad’s style anyway, but before he left, he whispered in my ear, “Take care of your sister, Pepper.”
I nodded and hugged him, “I will. I love you. See you at home soon.”
“Happy birthday, Mills!” Charlotte said as the couple walked off arm in arm then Mills texted Mom to let her know they were gone. I felt bad for Mills. I don’t think she understood what our so-called Mother was really like, but that was probably for the best. For Mills, anyway.
Before I walked back in, I saw a familiar car pull into the drive. It was Church in his brand new black Porsche. He had the top down and looking as hot as ever in his white button-down. He smiled at me and honked at Mills, “Happy birthday!” She waved back then walked inside to dance and party with her friends before the chopper arrived. That was due in a few minutes and I was on my way to make sure everything was in order when Aven slid her arm into mine.
“Oh my God, I’m so jealous of you. Jonathan Church is the most beautiful man I’ve ever seen.”
“He’s also a complete ass, Aven. You’re welcome to him if you want him.”
“Ew! And date your seconds? I think not. Remember the girl code? We don’t do that—ever!”
Church walked up as confident as ever with his hands in his pockets. He looked so fucking hot in his black jeans, his black leather belt and black shoes. “Talking about me?” he asked playfully.
“Yes, actually. You’re late. She’s already gotten her gift,” I frowned—not that I really cared. I just hated that he had to be the center of attention all the time, even on Mills’ special day.
“Yes but we forgive you, Church. Don’t we, Pep?” she smiled up at him. He hugged her and gazed down at her like a god who enjoyed looking into the face of his most ardent worshiper.
“Where’s the alcohol?” He started toward the bar, “By the way, Aven. You look incredible in that dress. Did you have it made just for the occasion?” He flirted shamelessly and she played along. I wondered how strictly she’d follow her girl code if given a chance to break it. I smiled at them. I loved Church, but as a friend. Nothing more. He was too much of a player. But I loved his cock. So perfectly thick and juicy, and I loved the way it stretched me open and filled me up. On second thought, maybe I didn’t want Aven near Church. He was my fuck after all. Just then, I saw Gabe’s car pulling in and I ran over to meet him.
“Hey boss! Glad you could make it!” Gabe always managed to look hot, no matter what he wore—shorts, jeans, swimming trunks, it didn’t matter. Tonight he wore a summer blue button-down with khaki pants and leather loafers and despite his somewhat casual appearance, his real gold watch and expensive cologne showed his true wealth. Overall, Gabe’s hot-bodied appearance at the party added a new, unexpected thrill to the event—for me at least.
“Hey, dolphin girl! Glad I could make it. I didn’t think I’d be able to at first. Had some issues at work, but it’s taken care of now, I think.”
“What’s up? Is Singh okay?”
He laughed. “Yes, he’s fine, it wasn’t about Singh. Just some other stuff.”
“Anything I can help you with?”
“No, and we’re not at work now, so let’s go inside, let me see this place.” He offered me his arm and I smiled up at him. I couldn’t believe I was on a faux date with Gabriel Gregory. He was such a hottie!
We walked under the flaming arch and into the ballroom, which was covered in shimmery, silver fabric—Mills’ favorite color. It was a weird combination of open flames and silver decorations but somehow, Aven and I had made it all work together. I think it was the mountain of bling that we’d added to the centerpieces and decorations that did it.
“Well, what do you think?”
Gabriel gazed around the room. “Wow, it’s…shiny. You did all this?”
“Yes, me and my best friend, Aven. She’s amazing when it comes to parties. I swear the girl should be a party planner. You know…if she wasn’t stupid rich.” I laughed.
Mills walked up to us with her mouth open. “Oh my! You must be Gabe? You’re frickin’ hot!”
“Mills!”
“No wonder my sister actually goes to work every day. I might have to get a job at the stinky fish place myself.” She laughed and sipped on a glass of bubbly liquid.
He blushed and said, “Thank you. Stinky fish place…I’ll see about that job.” His smile was so sexy, I wanted to kiss him right then and there but with Church around, I thought I’d better not.
“Hey, missy…what the hell are you drinking?”
“Something Church gave me. He’s over there on the dance floor with Aven.” Her face said it all and when I tossed a glance that way, I wasn’t that surprised to see my short friend grinding on his leg to the music. I thought about it for a millisecond, unsure if I was okay with that… but then again, I had Gabe on my arm and I was definitely okay with that. God, I’m such a slut. No, no I’m not. Fuck.
“That better not be alcohol,” I warned her. “Daddy would kill me.”
“Calm down, Mother. Speaking of Mom, have you seen her yet? She’s late.”
“She’s always late. I’m going to get Gabe a drink. Stay away from the bar, Sis.” She stuck her tongue out at me and wandered on to the dance floor with one of her friends. “Ready for a drink?” He nodded, his dark eyes looking around the room.
“Yeah, that would be great.” I walked with him over to the bar and he ordered a beer. I ordered the same. I had a love/hate relationship with beer, but I’d only have one tonight. Whenever I drank beer, drama always seemed to follow. I promised myself only one beer tonight. Gabe was here and I wasn’t about to fuck that up.
With our bottles in hand, I led him out to the heliport where a small crowd of people were waiting for their turn on the helicopter. I looked at him hopefully, and he laughed and nodded his head, “But just once.” I put our names on the list and the DJ, who was hot tonight, would call us when it was our turn. I couldn’t wait to be in the air with Gabe. Meanwhile, we sipped our beers and I introduced him to the least controversial people on my friends list—ones that wouldn’t tell him horror stories about my behavior. I couldn’t put my finger on what it was about Gabe—but being next to him, I wanted to do right—do better. I wanted him to see me as someone that was good—like him.
Luckily, he and my friend, Phil, kind of new each other. They got into a deep conversation about oil rig rights and the effects of rigs on the environment. I tried to keep up— but I also wanted to keep an eye on my baby sister.
“Gabe, I have to go check on Mills. I’ll be right back, okay?” He nodded and continued with his point. I think he and Phil were having a disagreement, but it was a polite one. I didn’t understand anything
they were talking about and made a mental note to Google oil rigs and the environment.
I went to the last place I’d seen Mills, the dance floor. “So hey, where you been?” Church scooped his arms around my waist and tried to dance with me.
“I’ve been busy. Where’s Aven?” I asked him.
“Gone to get me a drink. Please tell me you aren’t jealous of your hot, chubby friend.” Aven walked up about then and must have heard his comment. She immediately turned and walked away and I called after her.
“Aven! Wait up! You know he’s an ass! Why do you let him bother you?”
She turned and glared at me. “Leave me alone, Pepper.”
“Damn, girl! I will. I’m not the one who called you chubby!” I turned around and walked away. Fuck her if she wanted to fall out over a guy like Church. I don’t know why I was even surprised. I’d known all along she had a thing for him, no matter how many times she promised me she didn’t. I knew it was bad too. Oh well, I had better things to do with my time.
I saw my sister’s friend, Victoria, dancing with some hot guy that was covered in tats and I wondered where a high-society overly protected girl like her would have met someone like that. “Hey, Pepper!”
“Hey, have you seen Mills?”
“Yeah, she’s up there with Rafe.” She pointed up to the DJ booth that towered over the crowd below, and there was my sister, a drink in her hand, partying like she was twenty-one. I sighed and watched for a few minutes until I was convinced she was all right. Nobody had their hands on her and she was still standing upright, so I left the dance floor—and Aven and Church—and went back to find Gabe. About that time, I heard our names over the loudspeaker so I just about ran the rest of the way and grabbed Gabe’s arm.
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