We have all the time in the world.
The look on her face was priceless as he leaped up and jumped off the bed. She groaned as he headed towards the bathroom. He stripped down and switched on the shower. The water blasted from the head and splashed down upon his worn and beaten skin.
More scars to add to the battlefield of my body.
The sound of the water bouncing off every surface around him made him deaf to her approach. It wasn’t until her hand snaked around from his back and clawed into his chest, that he realized Jen had gotten into the shower with him. He spun around and looked at his fully-naked Goddess, the water bouncing off her perky breasts. Her hair clung to her neck and chest as he pulled her into him. Their skin was slick and slippery from the shower and he loved how her nipples glided off his chest. Their tongues mashed together as his cock poked at her stomach once more.
This woman is relentless!
Sliding one hand under her ass, he lifted her leg giving him the perfect angle. The water made it that much more lubricated as he slid in and she moaned. Her head fell back and he thrust in and out. Droplets bounced off them, sprinkling their merged bodies as they made love in the shower.
When it was all over and both were entirely satisfied, they finally got to the task at hand and lathered each other up. They were soon squeaky clean and clambered awkwardly from the shower. Luckily, Ace always kept spare towels in the bathroom and pulled a clean one out for Jen to dry herself. He wrapped his own around his waist and watched her dab at her body. She was so perfectly formed, he couldn’t help but stare. Everything about her was flawless. No wonder Seth was obsessed.
She seemed to notice him watching and giggled, swatting at him with the edge of her towel. He growled and picked her up, flinging her over his shoulder. He carried her, fireman-style, out the room and down the stairs.
“Ace, I’m naked!” she screeched.
“Oh baby, don’t I know it!”
Ungracefully, he plonked her down on the couch and went off in search of coffee. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see her try to wrap the towel around herself. He pulled out two cups and filled them to the brim, carefully carrying them back to the living area where he sat down next to her. She took a sip of the coffee and stared at him.
“So, what now, Mr. Bailey?”
“Now we pack up and leave. It would be good if we’re not seen around here for a bit. We don’t need to draw any attention to ourselves anywhere near the crime scene. Did you manage to pack anything last night?”
She put her hands on her hips, “And when would I have had time? Between fucking and getting engaged, I’ve been a bit preoccupied!”
“You might have a point there.”
Laughing she stood up, “Now I know you’re enjoying the naked coffee club, but I really should get packing. You’re right, we do need to get away from here for a bit. But only a little while, okay? I really like it here. Or maybe I just like you? You going to be okay by yourself for a bit?”
“Do I look like a baby to you? Of course I’m going to be alright. Now go get packing! I’m going to finish my coffee and I’ll be up in a bit. Let me see what there is to clean up down here. I’ll have to throw all the food out so nothing goes bad while it’s empty.”
“Smart thinking, big man!”
He watched as she scampered away up the stairs, clutching her coffee. Under the thin towel he could make out all her curves and he just wanted to run after her and lay her out once more. Not only was she beautiful on the inside but on the outside too!
Ace continued to sip at his brew as he stood up and walked outside. He looked around the decking. He still found it hard to believe that just a couple of hours ago, the love of his life had said yes to marrying him in that very spot. Birds sung their morning songs and the sun shone brightly on the day ahead. Everything is finally looking up.
Suddenly a sharp trill broke through his thoughts and he turned around. Heading back inside, he went to source the noise only to find his phone vibrated loudly on the table. The caller ID announced it was Red ringing. Placing down his cup, he quickly picked up the phone and answered.
“What’s up, Red? Is everything alright?”
“Ace… it’s Van.”
Epilogue
JENNIFER
Her mom fussed around her, readjusting her veil and pinning back her hair. Jen couldn’t believe the reflection staring back at her. She had never felt more beautiful than she did now, dressed all in white and ready to marry the man of her dreams. Contemporary and figure-hugging, the dress flared out at the bottom and was beautifully simple in flowing crepe. Lace prominently detailed it with statement illusion sleeves and a heavenly illusion back, continuing its sweep to the cut-out lace train. She knew that no one would forget it easily.
Her bouquet consisted of a pretty mix of champagne, vanilla mist and white rose, intermingled with foliage and gypsophila. Right in the center was a sparkling diamante brooch which glinted in the light just like her engagement ring. The handle was bound in satin ribbon and finished with an organza bow. Right at the very base was a little trim of rhinestone ribbon giving it that added sparkle.
Then finally to top it all off, she wore a feminine floral-inspired bridal tiara adorned with silver enameled leaves and glistening solitaire cut crystals, finished with tiny ivory freshwater pearl accents. It perfectly matched the flowery lace design on her dress and made her feel like a princess.
Pearl, eat your heart out. Guess I became the princess you kept calling me, after all! And now my prince is waiting for me at the end of the aisle…
“You going off into your own little world again, my little sweet pea? Oh, I just can’t believe it. My little girl is finally getting married. I never thought I’d see the day! I’m so happy you decided to hold the ceremony here, in Ireland. I think you needed a break from all the glitz and glamour for a bit!” her mom clasped onto her hand as she looked at her in admiration.
There was a knocking at the door. They both swiveled around.
“Can I come in?” a disembodied voice called through the door.
“Sure thing, dad. The doors unlocked,” Jen yelled back at him.
In came her father, in a suit a bit too large for his skinny frame, but ever the handsome man that she had grown up with. She looked at her parents standing side by side, deep set smiles planted on their faces as they looked at their daughter. She could feel the pride emanating off them. They both moved forward and scooped her into a heart-melting hug.
“I know you and Ace have been through a lot the last couple of months, especially with Ace’s brother, but I’m so proud of you both getting to where you are today. I have to say I was quite skeptical when I first saw him, but after hearing you talk about him and seeing the way he treats you and others around you, I can honestly say you’ve made the best choice. I’m proud of you, my little honey bee,” her dad’s eyes glistened as he spoke.
“Oh goodness, look at the time!” her mom exclaimed, “We’d better get a move on! Everyone will be waiting for us otherwise!”
Jennifer clutched hold of her bouquet as she followed them outside to the waiting limousine. She wore platform courts with glimmering gold leaves and delicate cherry blossoms adorning the heel. It had a striking embellished stiletto heel with an elegant pointed too, handcrafted using the finest Italian ivory silk satin with natural leather soles.
Even though she had insisted on a quiet wedding, her mother made sure she still looked like a queen. No expense was spared for the Bailey-Jacob’s wedding.
Jennifer took a deep breath as she looked up at the church. It had been built of white marble and blue quartzite, laying nestled at the foot of the mountain, overlooking the glen. The view was breathtaking, but just then she was having a hard enough time steadying hers.
In just under an hour, I’m going to be a Bailey.
Her dad smiled at her, letting her take amount before linking his arm with hers. She could hear the music start playing in the church, the
organ blaring loudly. Her mother gave her a watery smile before she set off with the flower girls, a few stray rose petals fluttered down from their baskets as they made their way in the heavy oak doors. She squeezed her dad’s hand who promptly gave her a kiss on the cheek before leading her in.
A few family members and locals from her parent’s village were gathered in the pews. They turned to look back at her as she made her entrance. She could feel their eyes upon her as she made her way up the aisle. But that didn’t make her one bit nervous. Because at the end, in front of the priest stood Ace, looking more handsome than ever.
She hadn’t seen him in a tux since the charity event and it still took her breath away. He wore a striking slim fit single-breasted suit in black twill, completed with notch lapels and jetted pockets. Everything matched perfectly, from his trousers to his waistcoat. She knew because she had been the one to pick it out. After he tried to wear jeans and a leather jacket.
Clearly she wasn’t the only one taken away by their partner’s appearance as his mouth practically dropped open when he saw her. Even after all this time together it still brought her pleasure to see the way he looked at her. It sure made a difference to the scowl which was implanted on his face when they first met.
Her dad carried her up the front where he handed her over to Ace. Silence fell throughout the church as the priest began to speak. Throughout the entire process, their eyes never left one another. Only after the vows when it was ready to exchange rings did Ace turn to look behind him.
“Hey, snailman, I know you’re on crutches but can you hurry up. I’ve got a woman to marry here!”
Van emerged out from behind Ace and reached into his pocket. Pulling out the box he opened it to let the couple take them out.
“Now you’re no longer looking after me, you can’t talk to me like that,” Van elbowed him in the ribs before moving back to his place in line.
Jennifer grinned and winked at the eldest brother. It had been a tough couple of months after Red had announced, that Van had pulled through but would need constant care. They had spent their time taking turns looking after him while he recovered. It was not only their wedding day they were celebrating but also finally the beginning of Van’s independence once more.
“I now pronounce you man and wife. You may now kiss the bride,” the priest announced.
Jen’s body melted as Ace swept her down with his arm and held her in a deep and drawn-out kiss. The passion between them burned as she wrapped her arms around his head. It wasn’t until they finally pulled away that she could make out the clapping around her.
The priest wrapped the ceremony up and blessed their marriage. Everyone was cheering as she made her way down the aisle with her new husband. As they exited the building, a ray of sun peeked out and radiance bounced off the newlyweds.
“I love you, Ace.”
“I love you, Mrs. Bailey.”
The End
The Bailey Brothers
PROTECTED BY RED
Prologue
RED
“You’re practically glowing, little sister. Ace certainly did his job well this time around!”
Red grinned at his pregnant sister-in-law, Jennifer. Jennifer was six months into her pregnancy and her stomach was showing underneath her floral maternity dress. Consciously, she placed a dainty hand on her expanding belly and smiled back at him.
“Speak of the devil and he shall appear,” she giggled as a muscled arm snaked around her shoulder.
“Are you harassing my wife again, Red? You do realize she’s a Bailey now, she will give as good as she gets.”
Red’s little brother, Ace, was as tattooed as the rest of the family. He stood there in his usual outfit of black jeans and a black t-shirt, only now instead of the old frown he had etched into his face, it was slowly being replaced with a warm smile. Red had started to grow accustomed to his little brother actually being happy. He had finally managed to settle down with the woman he loved and they had fallen into marital bliss. After the mafia twins managed to strike a deal with the paparazzi, Ace and his A-lister wife were finally on the way to starting a family life without the constant buzz of photographers following them around.
“What are you three girls gossiping about?”
They all turned to watch the eldest Bailey brother walk out onto the patio. It was a rare occasion that they could all get together now Ace had moved out of the family house and in with his wife. The Bailey brothers – Red, Ace and Van – formed the most exclusive but loyal biker club going. Their family home was their clubhouse and the world was their playground.
“How did the last job go?” Ace looked at Van.
“Oh, you know how it is. The wrong people in the wrong place at the wrong time. The twins had reports of some guys harassing a couple of their accountants uptown and they sent me and a couple of men to investigate. Turns out the Martinez gang are encroaching on our turf again. I think we sent an appropriate message back to them. I can’t say I appreciate the extra scuff marks though,” he looked down at his calf where a large wound cut deep into the muscle.
“Bullet or knife?” Red raised an eyebrow.
“Knife. I don’t think I’d have much of a leg left if they shot at me from that distance. I’ve heard Joe is starting to get you back into the swing of things,” Van nudged Ace.
“We all knew they wouldn’t hold a grudge for too long. Plus I seem to be keeping a good eye on one of their assets,” he pulled Jennifer in closer, “I’m keeping it clean this time though. With baby Bailey on the way, I can’t put myself in any dangerous situations. I don’t want my son to grow up without parents like us.”
“It’s a boy?” Red’s grin was almost ear-splitting.
“Yes, we got it confirmed,” Jennifer mindfully rubbed her belly, “It looks like another Bailey boy will be joining the world shortly. Not entirely sure that’s a good thing yet…”
“Hey! We have the best genes. And clearly you’re not averse to them,” Ace grinned at his wife.
“Stop, you’re going to make me sick with all this monogamy. I still can’t believe you made my baby brother an honest man. Are you sure you’re a Bailey?” Red laughed.
“Not all of us are man whores, Red,” Van interjected.
Red put a hand on his chest, “That was a low blow. And the only reason you’re not getting any is because your face looks like a donkey’s ass.”
“Fuck off you little shit,” Van scowled and prowled off.
“Stop teasing him all the time or he’s going to kick you out the house. And trust me when I say, you’re not living with us. I’m not picking up used condoms in the nursery,” Ace pinned his brother down with his glare.
Red raised his hands in mock defense, “Well, what better place to make babies than where they eventually end up? You two didn’t waste much time getting knocked up.”
“Why should I wait? I’ve spent my entire life looking for a future. Now I’ve found mine and we’re going ahead full-speed. I guess it would be hard for you to understand, since the only responsibility you ever take upon yourself is picking your women’s underwear off the floor.”
“That’s if they wear underwear in the first place.”
“Van is right, you are a man whore. I wouldn’t even be surprised if there is a bunch of little Reds causing havoc in the world already,” Ace laughed.
Red forced a laugh out but he didn’t feel any humor in the comment. A pain lurched in his stomach as he looked over at his little brother and his glowing pregnant wife. Something tugged at his soul as he admired their blissful happiness.
If only he knew the pain. I pray he never has to.
“Come on, tiger. Those fajitas aren’t going to make themselves,” Jennifer tugged at her husband’s hand and they wandered off towards the kitchen.
Red watched, his sister-in-law was starting to form a bit of a waddle under the ever-growing weight of his nephew. It still surprised him to see his brother holding her hand. He had lived his ent
ire life being closed off, but around her he was a different person.
Get him out on the job though and he’s back to being tough old Ace. After everything they’ve been through, I’m glad to see them together, happy and thriving. And maybe… a little jealous?
Red shook the thoughts from his mind and plastered his usual cheerful grin back onto his face before following them into the house. The smell of marinated chicken cooking on the griddle pan made his mouth water. He absolutely adored Jennifer’s cooking.
Baby Bailey is so damn lucky.
He plonked himself down at the dining room table where Van scowled at him one last time before he also caved in to the smell of the fajita meat. They both found themselves watching as the married duo blended and mashed the fresh salsa. Ace then grabbed the tortillas out the oven while Jennifer served the chicken onto a plate. As usual the woman was relentless in her greenery and waddled over with a bowl of salad. They laid out the food for everyone to jump in and, in their usual manner, they were on it within seconds. It seemed that Jennifer had finally learned to keep up with the boys as she piled her plate high and leaned back to eat. The table was silent as everyone contently devoured their fajitas. Red found it funny seeing Ace eating salad, she had trained him well.
“Absolutely perfect as always, Jennifer,” Van offered a rare smile across the table at her.
Jennifer looked absolutely ecstatic at his praise and rubbed her stomach before replying, “Thanks. If you want, I can give you the recipe for the marinade?”
“Maybe write it down for me. You know us, we don’t have much time for cooking since we’re constantly on the go. Talking of which, I’d better be heading off soon. Pearl just called to let me know there’s been a fire at the warehouse and she believes it is arson. There’ll be hell to pay, if it’s sourced back to the Martinez gang. They have been stirring up a lot of trouble lately and I’m starting to think it might develop into an all-out turf war. You promise you’re keeping yourself out of the deep end, little brother?”
The Bailey Brothers Box Set- the Complete Trilogy Page 18