“Hey,” Zev says as he drops his gym bag on the floor next to me.
“Hi.”
“Before Jersey gets here, I want to say I’m sorry I overreacted when I found you hugging on Tara.”
I fight an eye roll. It wasn’t quite like that, but I’ll let it slide. “She explained that you were talking to her about something and assured me I have nothing to worry about. I’m cool with the two of you being friends. Just try to keep your hands to yourself. That shit’s still hard to watch.”
“Sure, man, and for the record, I’m not interested in her whatsoever.”
“Noted.”
“What’s uuuuup?!” Jersey yells as he barrels inside the gym with a smirk on his ugly face.
“What the hell has you so chipper?” I ask.
“I woke up to Sadie conducting one of her sexual science experiments on my cock. Damn, it felt incredible. Have I mentioned she’s fucking amazing?”
“When are you going to grow the hell up? You have a kid on the way,” I reply.
“Lighten up. I’m just playin’ around.” Without stretching or warming up, Simon picks up ridiculously heavy dumbbells.
He works out, but not nearly as often as Zev and I do, and he always overdoes it. He’ll be whining about it tomorrow when he’s sore as shit.
“Where’s your better half?” he asks his brother.
“She’s having some kind of spa, shopping day with Aggie.”
Feeling my heart rate jack up a notch, I clear my throat. I can’t even hear the woman’s name without my stomach feeling weird. I need to work out to release some of the sexual tension eating me from the inside out.
I better stop thinking about her, too, before I get a stiff one in these thin shorts. If it was only that easy. I woke up wondering what she was doing this weekend, curious if she was in the hotel and if I could possibly run into her tonight.
The dirty things I want to do with her …
I fantasize about them day and night. It’s only a matter of time before I take what I want, but I know she yearns for it, too. The lust bleeds from her.
Fuck. I feel my cock stiffen, so I resituate it.
“So, have you turned out any bitches lately?” Zev asks me.
That’s a hell no. He’s probably fishing since Tara likely told him I confided with her about another woman. I’m hoping she didn’t give him the pathetic details.
“Nope. I haven’t been getting out much.” I strain to exhale the last couple of words as I unrack the bar to bench press.
“Damn, how long has it been?” Simon asks.
Weeks. And I don’t want any woman except for Aggie, but I can’t tell you assholes that I’m holding out until I fuck your sister.
“Too damn long,” I say instead.
“Maybe you’ll get lucky when we party after my wedding. We’re closing down Caged and inviting all our friends to celebrate.”
I imagine being there with Aggie. How will I keep my hands off of her? I’ll need to reiterate to her that we have to remain discreet.
“Can you spot me?” I ask Simon. He approaches and stands over me before I lift again.
“How’s Sadie feeling?” Zev asks him as he continues to stretch.
“She’s gotten sick a few times but overall good. We go to the doctor the week after the wedding. I imagine it will seem more real then.”
“I can’t believe you’re having a kid,” I say. “Don’t take that shit for granted.”
“I don’t plan on it, but since when do you care about having babies?”
“It’s happening for you, so I just meant you should be happy about it.” I don’t look up at him. I should’ve never commented, but he’s a lucky man, and I feel pressed to make sure he comprehends that.
“Don’t worry about me. I’m happy about it.” Looking down at me, he shoots me a grin, and I’m relieved he’s not pissed. “I’m going to hand it over to you one of the times it has shit in its diaper and is screaming at the top of its lungs.”
“This conversation’s getting weird. I can’t believe you both are getting married and having kids.”
“Hey, Tara’s not pregnant yet,” Zev chimes in.
“Yeah, and I bet it’s only a matter of time,” I say.
“You’ll be next, bro.” Simon’s smiling at me again as he helps me rack the weight I’ve lifted.
If they only knew that’s not in the cards for me. Cancer shit on that dream years ago. More is not in my future.
Aggie
Tara and I leave the department store with an array of bags in hand, and I never dreamed shopping could be so tiring.
I had my hair done first thing this morning. My auburn waves are now resting a little below my chin. It was scary cutting off my long locks, but Tara swears this look is sexy and sophisticated.
Then, she had me waxed in the most private places. I sure didn’t see that coming. We received manis and pedis, and upon leaving the salon, we ate lunch before the shop-a-thon began. We’ve definitely made a day of it.
We get inside her car, and she continually glances over at me.
“Spill it, Aggie. I’m dying to hear the details of this mystery man.”
“OK, but you can’t tell my brothers. I’ve met someone, Tara, and he’s intense. He’s aggressive one minute but skittish the next. We’re not dating, but we can’t be in the same room without wanting to devour each other.
“Then, it freaks us both out. I’ve never in my life felt this depth of chemistry with someone. It’s terrifying and exhilarating all at once.”
“Damn, girl.”
“I haven’t slept with him, but damn I want to, and I’m not going to be able to resist him if he tries again.”
“What are you waiting for?”
“There’s not only a physical connection between us. It’s more than that, and I fear he has the power to leave me hurt.”
“Yeah, you can’t have a fling when feelings are involved. I found that out the hard way with Zev.”
“I’ve never had a solely physical relationship with someone. I don’t know if I can do it.”
“Maybe he has feelings for you, too. I was talking to a male friend about this recently. They often need a little more time than women do to accept they want more.”
“I’m not even sure what I want at this point. I guess time will tell. Thank you for talking to me. Moving here placed me in uncharted waters, and I need a girlfriend to help me navigate through it.”
“Of course. I’ve loved hanging out with you today, so you call me anytime.”
Chapter Thirteen
Zev
Saturday is one of our busiest nights, so I’m bouncing back and forth between the Royal lounge and Caged when my phone vibrates.
Tara: Will you marry me tonight?
What the fuck?
Me: Don’t toy with me, woman.
Tara: Sweetie, I’m serious as a heart attack. Can you get away for an hour?
Me: Absolutely. God, every damn day you make me grin like a fucking fool. Get your fine ass down here.
Tara: You better book us a suite. We’ll need to consummate this marriage.
Me: Damn, I love you.
Immediately, I go to inform Simon and some of my employees that I’ll be out the rest of the night. Tara is a welcome distraction, but it’s time I hire more help.
Tara
Since the Marriage License Bureau is open until midnight, for impulsive people like us, it’s no trouble and super quick for Zev and me to get the legal document in our hands.
We enter the old wedding chapel building, and I lean my face against Zev’s shoulder, stifling a giggle. The place is elegant in its own cheesy way.
As if reading my thoughts, Zev chuckles, but once we reach the counter to pay, he tips my chin and reveals a sober expression.
“Last chance, sweetheart. Are you sure you don’t want something special. I’m willing to wait if you do.”
“This will be a fun, loving memory I’ll have with you.
That makes it special, and I’ll hold it close to my heart forever.”
I give him the sunny grin he’s always speaking of, and this eases his mind. He broadcasts the happiest smile in return before he faces the Asian lady standing behind the counter.
For the low price of $99.99 and a tip for the minister, we’re all set. “Damn, baby, I’ve paid more for dinner. I at least owe you a spectacular honeymoon.”
“Sounds like a fair trade to me,” I say as we follow the petite lady into the chapel. Out-of-date white lace curtains hang behind the minister as he stands before us.
He’s an older gentleman, with grey hair, his cordial smile reminding me of a grandpa with a slew of grandchildren.
As he shakes the hands of another couple finishing up, I admire the glass chandelier dangling above his head and the flamboyant pink flower arrangements on white pillars standing sturdy at each side of him.
Once the other couple passes us to exit, we approach the minister and exchange pleasantries. He’s quick with his part of the ceremony, and then it’s time for us to say our vows.
Zev squeezes my hands, and both of ours are sweaty.
“In the past, I believed happiness was only for others to experience, but you changed that, Tara. You bring me so much happiness, and I will do everything in my power to make you happy in return.
“I’ll share with you my insatiable appetite for affection,” I get a wink from him and a devilish grin, “and I promise to love and protect you until death do us part.”
Leaning in, he gives me a quick peck on the lips.
“Xavier, I look forward to your insatiable appetite for affection, and I’ll do everything in my power to continue bringing you happiness. I promise to love and protect you until death do us part.”
Boasting a smile, the minister continues the ceremony, but all I can focus on is the happiness radiating from Zev.
“… I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your beautiful bride.” As the last words leave the minister’s lips, I’m ecstatic.
Zev does kiss me. It’s long and passionate, spilling into me all the wonderful emotions he’s experiencing, until the old man is clearing his throat.
Grinning, our hands entwine, and we leave the chapel to start our new lives as a married couple.
***
“Don’t argue with me. I’m carrying my wife across this threshold,” Zev utters as he swoops me up into his arms.
“We got married!” I squeal, still stunned that we actually did it. He chuckles and slips the room key inside the lock.
“Yep. You’re all mine now,” his lips smack a kiss to my mouth, “and I’m never letting you go.”
Once he lowers me to my feet, I straighten up the short white gown I’m wearing. The top is adorned with tiny pearls and has cap sleeves. Simply elegant.
The tulle bottom flares and is graced with an intricate lace trim. It was inexpensive, yet for a last minute purchase, it’s beautiful and perfect.
My eyes dart around, admiring the suite he reserved. A monstrous room is encased with floor to ceiling windows. I stroll over to two glass doors and peer out at the balcony overlooking the lively city.
Zev’s phone dings from a text, bringing me out of my trance. “It’s Adrian,” he mumbles.
While he’s typing a reply, I use the opportunity to view more of the lovely space I’m immersed in. There are two grey leather sofas and a few patterned chairs to match, and a full-size bar sits to the left of me.
My eyes follow the grey and white swirl marble on the floor to a staircase on the right, which leads up to the master bedroom. The wrought-iron railing gives the steps a luxurious look.
“Wow, this has to be your most extravagant room.”
“It is. Luckily no one had reserved it. Only the best for my wife.”
“You like saying it.” I gift him a whopping grin, unable to contain my happiness.
“My new favorite word.”
“OK, husband. Time to seal the deal.”
“Mmm, and that’s my favorite part of this shindig.”
I yank off the cheap veil I purchased today at a department store with Aggie. I grew up dreaming about a big, spectacular wedding, but with Zev and I both having lost our parents, it seemed excessive. Not to mention, I didn’t want to wait.
What matters is it happened. We made it official that we’re devoted to each other and a future together. That makes me the happiest woman ever.
Zev’s phone continually buzzes with text messages and he groans. “We shouldn’t have sent that selfie out until tomorrow. My brothers are tripping, especially Simon. He’ll forever ride me that I got hitched before him.”
“Yes, but you can forever ride him that he knocked up Sadie.”
“So true. I’m turning my phone off. Someone can come beat on the door if they truly need me, but they better not interrupt me while I make sweet love to my wife, potentially knocking her up.”
I giggle. He’s so damn cute and has come so far since I met him.
“Maybe I don’t want sweet love.” Sauntering back to him, I pull at his silver tie, loosening it. “Maybe I want you to give it to me dirty.”
His sweet demeanor vanishes, and I stare into the eyes of my hungry mate, enraptured by his light growl of yearning.
His thirst is evident from the sweep of his tongue across his lips and the flaring of his nostrils as he drags in a breath. Inebriated by my naughty insinuation, he clasps my hand with his and pulls me toward one of the sofas.
Stepping behind me, he slows and begins to pull out the pins holding my hair up. Each ping as they hit the marble below tightens my stomach further and accelerates my breaths.
Every curl falling to my back makes me wetter, and the foresight of the imminent future flashes in my mind, fantasies lascivious and wild.
“Your hair is beautiful and the perfect length to grip while I pound into you.”
My long strands are gathered together before he gradually winds it around his capable fingers. Once he’s given it a mild yank, he holds it steady and glides a hand up the back of my thigh until it’s massaging my bare ass.
A finger grazes down over the thong between my cheeks, and I suck in a sharp breath. Tauntingly, he drags the skimpy fabric along my legs so I can step out of it.
I hear his zipper next, inciting a salivating response. I’m dripping wet for him, my mouth and pussy craving the turgid sensation of his cock.
His movements are slow–precise, yet his grip on my hair and breath on my neck confirm his domination. My dress is shoved up before he glides his stiff dick down the crack of my ass and slowly pushes it inside my soaked pussy.
“You fit me like a glove. Feels so good, baby,” he says through a groan.
Pushing me over the arm of the sofa, he rocks into me fast and hard, pulling my hair in the process and imbedding my ass cheek with his strong fingertips.
But I don’t feel threatened. I trust Zev completely as he claims me with tantalizing affection and owns me with the deepest love.
“Yes, come inside me.”
He drives us up a path of bliss until my head is woozy and legs are trembling. I clench the sofa cushion below me to stabilize my quivering body.
“My king,” I murmur breathlessly. Slipping out of me, Zev turns me. His fiery hands cradle my cheeks as he breathes unevenly.
“I’m going to bathe you and taste every luscious inch of you until you’re shuddering against my lips. And last, I’m going to make sweet love to you ... my queen.”
His mouth touches my forehead, and his fingers rub the space behind my ears. “Thank you, Tara, for giving me all the remaining days of your life. Thank you for sharing your sunshine with me.”
“You deserve nothing less, Xavier. If I give you anything in this lifetime, I hope it’s the belief that you’re worthy. I love you.”
Chapter Fourteen
Aggie
It’s moving day, and Reggie is already waiting in his car next to me when I pull into a pa
rking space in front of my new condo. I’m still in a rental, and purchasing a vehicle is next on my to-do list.
He meets me at the front steps, and he’s all smiles as his fingers flip up a lock of my new hairdo.
“I like the new look.”
“Oh, thanks. I had it done yesterday.” I unlock the door to my place, and he follows me inside. “This is it, and the movers should be here soon with my stuff.”
My condo is a change from the old and familiar I’ve called home all my life. It’s modest in size, the heart and details modern with a touch of classic.
Walking inside it, the living room is small and cozy, opening up to a spacious kitchen. It also has a comfortable size dining room, so I can have my family over for social gatherings.
“And this is the master bedroom. It’s small, but I do have a large walk-in closet,” I say to Reggie as I flip on the light to the bedroom.
“Every woman needs a big closet, right?” He flashes me a flirty grin as he takes a step inside.
“I’m hoping to fill it up. Now that I’m working at Submission, I have a need for nice clothing. So, what do you think?”
“The place is perfect for you. Just the right size for one.”
Maybe it’s the sag of my mouth or the tears intruding on my hazel eyes that drive Reggie to pull me into his arms. “Aggie, I’m sorry.”
“You didn’t say anything wrong. I have to get used to this. It’s no longer the two of us, Mom and me. Damn, I miss her.”
I slip out of Reggie’s arms and wipe my eyes. “She sure was a handful, but no matter how sick she was, she never made me feel unloved.”
“That’s something special, Aggie, to get you through the tough times. Some people live a lifetime never experiencing that kind of love and assurance.”
I lean up to kiss his cheek. “Thank you. I needed to hear that. I had a wealth of love from both of my parents.”
His thumb grazes along my cheekbone, wiping away a tear. His stare is intense and overflowing with affection.
“You’re so beautiful and sweet. I wish I could take away your pain.”
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