Forever & Always

by Stacy Kristen

  Forever & Always

  Stacy Kristen

  Copyright © 2019 by Stacy Kristen

  All rights reserved.

  No part of this work may be reproduced in any manner without the expressed written consent of the author. If you wish to share this book, please have the reader buy his or her own copy.

  This is a work of fiction. All names, characters, organizations, and events portrayed in this novel are purely from the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual events, locations, persons (living or dead), is entirely coincidental.

  Created with Vellum

  This is dedicated to my husband.

  Thanks for everything babe.

  Forever & Always

  They says it's lonely at the top. I never really noticed. Mostly, because I’ve spent the past ten years building my empire. As President and CEO of my own company, I’ve dedicated my life to being the best.

  People talk. Let them. Just because I’m wealthy and successful and single doesn’t mean I plan to stay that way. To be honest, people talk anyway. Why? Because I’m gay. I’ve never hidden it. I just don’t discuss my personal life. But for me, dating is a fucking nightmare. I never know whether they want me for me, or just my money.

  But lately, loneliness has started to creep in. Everyone else around me, no matter where I go, seems to have that special someone. But not me. I never really wanted or needed someone. Until now.

  They say that you find love when you least expect it. Maybe there's some truth to that.

  Contents

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Epilogue

  Also by Stacy Kristen

  About the Author

  Chapter 1

  James

  As I exit the building that bears my name, I head toward the gym. My mind is clouded by my loneliness. I can’t keep going like this. I need to balance life and work. Work will always be a huge part of my life, but I need more. I crave it.

  Lost in thought, I look down at my phone, buzzing in my hand. I decline the call. But before I can look up, I feel something brush against my leg, demanding my attention. My eyes land on a big ball of fur. A St. Bernard is leaning against me, begging for a hip rub. Or a head scratch. Seems he’s not picky. He’s harmless, so I oblige. If memory serves, dogs love a good hip rub. As I sink my fingers into his fur, awareness hits me; the dog is leashed. But who is holding the leash? Following the line of the thing, I see a man’s hand gripping multiple dog leashes. Snapping my eyes to his face, I’m stunned to see a gorgeous man, smiling at me. Wow.

  “I’m so sorry. He loves to greet random strangers,” the man says, gently pulling on the dogs leash, trying to move him back from me. I know it’s my turn to speak, yet I can’t. All I can do is stare. Shit, where are my manners.

  “That’s okay,” I say, moving closer to the dog, gently scratching his head. “What’s his name?”

  “Bernie.”

  “Fitting.” The entire time he’s talking, I can’t help but run my gaze over him appreciatively. He obviously keeps himself in good shape. He’s good looking, too. Finally remembering my manners, I lean over and extend my hand.

  “I’m James.”

  “Ben. Nice to meet you,” he says in return, smiling.

  And just as I’m about to ask for his number, something catches the dogs’ attention and they pull at their leashes, propelling him forward.

  “Gotta go.”

  I smile in return and give him a small wave as he’s pulled away.

  As I walk away, I can feel him checking me out; the intensity of his perusal making my skin heat beneath my clothes. Good to know he’s interested. I most definitely want to know more about him, but I don’t even know who he is. I’m sure I can find out. Lucky for me I don’t have to wait long. As I walk the rest of the way to the gym, a transit van passes me with a logo on its side. The Dog Jogger. I see Ben in the driver’s seat, as he speeds past. I can’t help but smile, as I walk the rest of the way to the gym.

  I try to focus on my workout, but my thoughts keep drifting to Ben. I don’t think it’s a coincidence. I think it’s fate. It has to be. I’ve never felt the need to seek a lifetime partner. But lately, I’ve felt so alone. It’s time. No more being alone. I’m ready for love. And I want to explore it with Ben. I need to get in touch with him. But I don’t want to seem like a stalker. I mull it over. Fuck it. I go after what I want. I make a mental note to call Ben tomorrow.

  Chapter 2

  It’s easier enough to find Ben’s number. Or at least his business phone number, that is. I look it up first thing this morning, but wait to call. I need some kind of game plan. It’s probably weird that I don’t even have a dog and I’m calling him. Will he answer? Or someone else? This is why I don’t date. It’s way too much of a fucking hassle. But I need to do this. I’m tired of being alone. Ben is safe, I can tell. I didn’t see any recognition of who I am when we spoke. And that’s a good thing. I don’t like to lead with my success or my money. It’s a part of me, but it’s not all of me. I’m more than that. Picking up the phone, I dial Ben’s number. It rings, but no one answers. Voicemail picks up and it’s now or never. I’m doing this…I’m really doing this I think, cringing. I hear a beep. “Hi, yes. This is James. and I met you yesterday. Bernie and I had a moment,” I say, chuckling. “I was wondering if maybe you and I could have a moment. Maybe go to dinner.” I supply my number and hang up.

  The ball’s in his court. I just hope he isn’t already taken. I highly doubt it, as he checked me out pretty thoroughly yesterday. Now, I wait.

  Turns out, I don’t wait long. My phone rings that afternoon. It’s from a number I haven’t saved, but it’s Ben. I answer immediately. And make a mental note to save his number in my phone. I have a feeling I’m going to be needing it again.

  “This is James.”

  “Hi James, it’s Ben. From yesterday.”

  “Hi Ben, from yesterday,” I reply, lightly chuckling. So far so good.

  He chuckles back. “So, I was thinking, um, maybe we could go for drinks.”

  “Not dinner?”

  “Slow down tiger. We just met.”

  He makes a good point. Fuck, I’m a bit rusty at flirting and dating. But, he should know, I go after what I want. But, I remind myself to take it slow. That’s the signal Ben’s giving me. And I’ll honor it.

  “Drinks it is. How about The Pub on 64th? Or somewhere else, if you prefer?”

  Cozy, but not fancy. Perfect, if I do say so myself.

  “The Pub on 64th sounds great. You free tonight?”

  “I am. Are you?”

  “Yes, I’m free. Meet at 8:00?”

  “8:00 sounds great.”

  “Do you need me to pick you up?”

  “I’ll meet you there.”

  “Okay. See you then.”

  “Bye.”

  “Bye.”

  After we hang up, I feel light as air. I haven’t felt this good in days. Maybe I’m finally on my way to shedding this invisible cloak of loneliness. Time shall tell.

  I go about the rest of my day with a smile on my face; loneliness nowhere to be found. As I walk past my assistant Kat’s desk, wouldn’t you know, she notices my smile. And gives me so much shit. Why don’t I just fire her? Kat is also my sister. And she’s my assistant, because no one else can keep up with me. Or tolerate me. But she can. What can I say? It works for us. And makes our parents happy. Win-win.

  “Did the sky fall? Holy shit James, you’re smiling!”

  Most people who work here, consider me
a serious person who rarely smiles. Which isn’t entirely true. Yes, I have a serious expression most days. But it’s because I’m ruthless and I want people to respect me. Even fear me a little bit. I don’t fuck around. I go after what I want and then I go in for the kill. I didn’t get to the top by fucking around. For me, in both my business and my personal life, it’s the same. I go after what I want. It’s just that simple.

  “I wasn’t smiling, Kat.”

  “Yes, you were.”

  “You’re mistaken.” I give her a hard time, because it’s what we do. She calls me on my bullshit and I keep her grounded.

  “You are so full of shit, J. I saw you smile, even if it was extremely brief.”

  “So what if I did? And keep your voice down.”

  “Hah! You admit it! You know I’m going to needle you, until you give up the deets.”

  “I can’t smile?” I say, trying to keep a straight face.

  “Like you would anyway! Now spill!”

  “It’s none of your business.”

  “If you aren’t going to share, then I’ll snoop and follow you. You really want that?”

  I shiver. Kat would totally do that. “Fine. I have a date tonight.”

  “Finally! It’s been so long, I thought you’d become a monk!”

  “Very funny. I’m choosy. You know that. And for me, dating is a fucking nightmare.”

  Kat just rolls her eyes. “Oh, J. I’m sure it’s so hard,” she says, sarcastically. “Hot men and women throwing themselves at you, wherever you go. Yeah, it’s so hard.”

  “You have no idea, Kat. But for now, keep this between us. It’s our first date.”

  “Who’s the lucky guy?”

  “Ben.”

  “Does Ben have a last name?”

  “Not sure. I’ll find out tonight.”

  “I call B.S.! You always do a background check on every single person you date or do business with. You know and just aren’t telling me.”

  And just then, the phone rings. While Kat is busy, I head back to my office. I know this conversation isn’t over, but I’m done with it. Even if Kat’s not. She’ll needle me until I give her more info. And I will, after I meet Ben and get to know him. No need to sound the alarm, if this date goes nowhere. But I sincerely hope it goes somewhere.

  Chapter 3

  I arrive at the pub a few minutes early and snag us a booth. The pub fills up fast, tables occupied and people lined up at the bar. At exactly 8:00, I see Ben stroll in, looking for me. I stand up to catch his eye. As he makes his way towards me, I keep my eyes on him. He looks even better tonight. His light brown hair is tousled and he sports a light beard. He’s wearing fitted black jeans and a soft grey t-shirt that lovingly embraces his toned torso. Over his t-shirt, he’s wearing a faded black jean jacket. He’s quite stylish.

  “Good evening,” I say, looking deep into his honeyed colored eyes.

  “Hello again,” he replies, sliding into the booth opposite me. “I’m glad you called.”

  “Me, too.” But before I can say more, the waitress comes to our table to take our order. A scotch, neat for me and a microbrew for Ben. Interesting.

  “So Ben, tell me about yourself.”

  “Direct as hell. Okay, then.”

  “Ben Covington, age 28. Born upstate, but moved to the city to go to college. Attended City University. I wanted to become a vet, but couldn’t see myself going to school that long. So, I completed a bachelor’s degree in business. My love for animals led me to create my business after graduation,” he says, smiling. “Now you. Tell me more about the mysterious James.”

  I get a sense he doesn’t know who I am. And it’s extremely refreshing. He’s not one of those gold-digger types.

  “James Dall, age 32. Venture capitalist. I also dabble in acquisitions.”

  “Family?”

  “Parents and a younger sister. She also lives in the city, and I see her on a regular basis,” I say, and take a sip of my scotch. “How about you? Any family?”

  “Parents and an older brother. I don’t see them as often as I’d like, since I live in the city and they live upstate. But we make it a point to get together several times a year and during the holidays.”

  “So tell me more about yourself. Hobbies?” I ask Ben. I don’t want to seem like I’m asking a million questions, but I just want to get to know him.

  “Sure. But you first. Have any hobbies? Favorite color? Favorite music?”

  I smile. He’s no pushover. I like that.

  “Don’t really have a hobby. My business consumes me most days. I run and lift weights to let off steam. So if working out can be considered a hobby, then that’s probably it. Favorite color is blue and I listen to all sorts of music. Favorite is jazz, though.”

  Ben launches right in.

  “I love to ski. Being from upstate and all. It’s hard not to love it. And the snow. I love the snow. Favorite color is red. I love many kinds of music. Favorite is rock, though,” he gushes, taking a swig of his beer.

  We continue to chat for almost two hours. And the time just flies by. Ben is so easy to talk to. Our date has gone well, I think. And I think I’m really into Ben. I just hope he’s into me, too.

  We settle our tab and make our way outside, walking down the street. I don’t want him to leave, so I take his hand in mine. I stop and turn towards him.

  “Go out with me again.”

  A smile plays at the corner of his lips, as he looks deep into my eyes.

  “Is that a demand or a question?”

  What comes out of my mouth surprises even me.

  “Please, go out with me again.”

  “Well, since you asked so nicely. Yes, I’d be honored to go out with you again.”

  I smile and pull him into my arms, my lips covering his. I can taste the beer he just drank. And I can smell his cologne. It swirls around me, enveloping my senses And it makes me hard as hell. Fuck, he’s going to notice. That’s not the signal I want to be sending. I think I’ve made it clear that I want him. But I want to take it slow, because I know that’s what Ben wants.

  I break the kiss and put some space between us, but still holding onto his hand. I can’t sever that connection. “Let’s meet tomorrow. For dinner.”

  He smiles and looks into my eyes. “I’d like that.”

  Grabbing my phone, I recite the number he called from. “Same number?”

  “Yes.”

  “Good. I’ll text you a time. And I can pick you up.”

  I can see him debate it in his head for a moment, but he relents.

  “Okay. I’m done by 6:00 most nights.”

  “Perfect. I’ll let you know. And it’s a surprise.”

  “Oh my, bringing out the big guns, are we?” He says, jokingly, as he strokes my bicep.

  “You know it.” I reluctantly drop his hand. “See you tomorrow.”

  “Later,” he answers, as he starts to walk away.

  My heart skips a beat. I’m already so into Ben, it’s not even funny. I don’t normally fall for someone so fast, but with Ben, it just feels right. And I’m one to follow my instinct.

  Chapter 4

  Ben

  James texts me the next afternoon. We’re set for 7:00 pm. He lets me know that we’re going someplace fancy. So he’s after some romance. I’m completely okay with that. I’ve seen the serious and playful side of James. But now, I want to see the romantic side. If a man isn’t romantic, bye Felicia. I can’t wait to see him this evening. Last night,

  we connected so easily. I really like him. And did I mention his looks? Holy shit, he’s built like a Greek God. Tall and muscular. He has tousled dark brown hair and a full beard. He’s extremely attractive. But his body isn’t the only thing I’m attracted to. I crave the connection between us. And it makes me want him even more. He’s smart, he’s funny, and he seems like a genuinely good man. Time will tell.

  At exactly 7:00, James pulls up in front of my building. I exit the lobby and can’t hel
p but admire his ride. It’s a super-fancy luxury sedan. I get in and the buttery soft leather lovingly cups my ass. I had a feeling he was well off, but, wow. This car is off the charts. The car fits the man. I go to buckle my seatbelt, but before I can do so, he cups my face and kisses me, stealing my breath. Reluctantly, we come up for air.

  “Miss me, did you?” I ask, playfully.

  He smiles. “I think the kiss speaks for itself, don’t you?”

  “Absolutely. But hearing the words is nice.”

  “I missed you.”

  “That’s better, Mr. Dall. Don’t you forget it.”

  James maneuvers through traffic like a pro and we arrive at the restaurant. He parks, and when we enter the restaurant, he holds the door for me. He’s a gentleman. Score one for James.

  The restaurant he’s brought me to is super fancy. I’m glad he let me know to dress up. Because most days, I wear workout gear while exercising the mutts.

  As we’re ushered to our reserved table, I get can’t shake the feeling that James is very well off. I’m no slouch, but he exudes wealth from every pore. But he’s not arrogant. He’s pretty down to earth.

  We chat while our dinner is being prepared. And I bring it up—his wealth. I hate that it’s an elephant in the room, for me at least. But I need to know If I’m getting in over my head. There’s only one way to find out.

  “So James, tell me more about you. I googled you and a bunch of stuff came up. Is there anything I should know?”

  “First of all, fuck Google. It’s a bunch of bullshit. About me, that is. What you see is what you get. I’ve been open with you about everything. I’m just a man, looking for love. It’s that simple.”