Love At Last

by Cooper, Sharon C.

  He stood and turned to the window behind his desk, resting his hands against the windowsill as he peered at his back yard. Unlike many of the people he associated with, he was a third-generation college graduate. Almost from birth, the importance and value of education was drilled into him and his siblings. The decision to go to college was as automatic as going to grade school and he and Vicky had instilled the same value in their children. That was why the fact that Carolyn didn’t have more than a high school diploma nagged at him.

  A few days ago, she had mentioned that practically everyone in her family had either a college degree or a trade under their belt. All except her and her mother. Raising so many children, he could understand her mother not continuing her education after high school, but not Carolyn.

  The story she told him about Martina’s father came to the forefront of his mind and burned him up inside. That could have easily been his daughter, Shannon. Lincoln didn’t know how Steven Jenkins, Carolyn’s father, held back from strangling the guy. It was bad enough Rodrick deceived her, but to not claim his child …

  Lincoln shook his head. He could see how that experience shaped the woman Carolyn became. Getting pregnant her first semester of college was a huge setback. But he didn’t understand why she hadn’t gone back to school. Why settle for just a bartender gig? Granted some bartenders did very well financially, but Carolyn could be so much more. She had even mentioned that she had planned to go into marketing after high school.

  The doorbell rang just before the chime on the front door signaled that someone had walked in.

  “Dad? Are you decent?” his son, Brandon, called out.

  Lincoln chuckled as he left his office and wandered down the hallway toward the front of the house. “Since when did you start ringing the doorbell before walking in?”

  “Since I heard you had a girlfriend.” Brandon grinned and gave Lincoln a fist bump. “When did all of this happen? And why am I just now hearing about it?” He followed Lincoln into the kitchen.

  “If you called your old man sometimes you’d know. I’m getting ready to fix some lunch. Have you eaten?”

  Brandon sat at the breakfast bar. “Nope. What are you making?”

  Lincoln rinsed his hands in the sink. “Left over lasagna that Carolyn made last night.”

  He pulled out the glass dish as well as fixings for a salad. Carolyn had cooked for him twice that week, something he could easily get used to. She was a great cook—another talent to add to the growing list of things he liked about her, only making him feel like a jerk for holding her education against her. How could such an intelligent woman sell herself short?

  “So tell me about this Carolyn, and please tell me that she’s not my age. Not that I’d have a problem with you dating someone younger, but that would be a little too weird.”

  “First of all, that’s Ms. Jenkins to you, and don’t worry, she’s not your age. As a matter of fact, she has a daughter older than you.”

  “Hmm … how much older?” his son asked, interest in his tone.

  “Old enough to be married with a child.”

  “Oh.”

  Lincoln explained that Carolyn’s son-in-law had introduced them and how he and Carolyn had been hanging out for the last few weeks.

  “Sounds serious.”

  Smiling, Lincoln slid a plate in front of Brandon before sitting on the bar stool next to him.

  “So what does Ms. Jenkins do for a living?”

  Lincoln hesitated, knowing that Brandon wouldn’t be the only person to pose this question. Carolyn was comfortable with what she did for a living and her vibrant personality fit the role. So why wasn’t he? He needed to get over himself and accept all facets of the woman he was crazy about. “She’s a bartender.”

  A slow smile spread across Brandon’s lips. “You’re dating a bartender?”

  “Yes. You have a problem with that?”

  “Not at all! I think it’s cool. Most bartenders I know are pretty hot. Soooo, is she a hottie?”

  Lincoln chuckled. “What bartenders do you know?”

  “Well, I don’t actually know them, especially since I’m only twenty and not old enough to drink.”

  “Mmm hmm. Just remember that last part.”

  “I will, but you didn’t answer the question.”

  Lincoln smiled and shook his head. Nothing got by his kids. “Yes. Imagine a beautiful woman walking into a room and all heads turning in her direction, men and women. That would be Carolyn Jenkins. She’s definitely a hottie.”

  “Well, all right, Dad.” Grinning, Brandon bumped shoulders with him. “I have to say, I’m surprise you’re dating a bartender. I expected her to be a lawyer, professor, or something like that.”

  “Why do you say that?”

  “Because, you’ve always harped on the importance of getting a good education so that we can have our choice of,” he lifted his hands and did air quotes, “good careers. I’m just shocked you’d consider associating with someone who’s not at your educational and economic level. Assuming she’s not.”

  Lincoln listened as his son rambled on about the values he’d instilled in them and why getting a good education was important. And Lincoln didn’t like the way Brandon made him sound, even though everything his son said was true. Lincoln clearly needed to realign his views if he and Carolyn stood a chance.

  “Okay, enough about me. How’s school?”

  They ate and talked, something they didn’t do as often as Lincoln preferred, but he’d take what he could get. Unfortunately, most of their conversation was done via text messages which he hated but tolerated since it was better than nothing. He was so proud of his children. Shannon had graduated with straight A’s with her bachelors and was heading to graduate school at University of Southern California. Brandon was doing excellent at Xavier University where he was on a basketball scholarship. Lincoln was not only pleased with their educational success, but they were good kids as well.

  Brandon put his dishes in the sink and Lincoln followed him out of the kitchen. “All right, Dad, thanks for lunch. I gotta head out. But before I go, I have something for you.”

  “You have something for me?” Normally his kid came to him for money, so the fact that he was giving him anything was a switch.

  Brandon dug through the pocket of his jacket that had been tossed on the sofa. “Since you’re dating now, I want you to be prepared.” He handed Lincoln a strip of condoms as though he was passing them along to a college buddy. “That ought to tie you over until you can pick up some yourself. Put one or two in your wallet. You definitely don’t want to be caught unprepared in the heat of the moment.”

  Surprised and slightly horrified, Lincoln stood motionless. He appreciated the gesture since he hadn’t thought that far ahead. The moment brought back memories of father and son talks they had over the years and he was glad that the “be safe” speech stuck. “I … I don’t know what to say,” Lincoln finally mumbled.

  Brandon had his hand on the doorknob, but turned back to Lincoln. “You don’t have to say anything. I’m really glad you found someone and I can’t wait to meet her. Have a good time tonight.”

  Filled with pride for the man he had become, Lincoln pulled Brandon into his arms and held him tight. They were about the same height and build, but no matter what, he’d never get too big or grown for him to hug.

  “I love you, kid.”

  “Love you, too, Dad.” When they finally pulled apart, Brandon fist bumped him and grinned. “Try not to get into any trouble tonight.”

  Lincoln laughed. “I’ll try.”

  Later that evening, Lincoln stood speechless when Carolyn opened the door. His gaze started at her dark hair with light-brown highlights that she had straightened and hung past her shoulders. He continued drinking in her beauty, making note of every curve until he reached her long, shapely legs.

  How she managed to get more alluring with each passing day was a mystery to him. He always knew she had an incredible
body, but seeing her in the little silver, slinky dress that stopped just above her knees proved what he already suspected. She had a slamming body.

  Yes, she is definitely a hottie.

  “You’re absolutely stunning,” he finally said, handing her the two dozen red roses. “Actually, stunning doesn’t seem a strong enough word to describe you in that dress.”

  Carolyn laughed and the melodic sound had him wanting to make her laugh all the time. “Thank you. I’m glad you like it.”

  “I more than like it. I’m afraid I might not be able to keep my eyes or hands off of you.” His words surprised him. He had never been much of a flirt, but Carolyn brought this side of him out and he enjoyed the change.

  She buried her face in the bouquet of flowers, breathing in their scent. “These are beautiful and they smell wonderful. Thank you.”

  “My pleasure.” He followed her farther into the house, enjoying the rhythm of her jiggle as she sashayed into the kitchen for a vase. The dress she wore was as unique as any outfit he’d ever seen on a woman. One side sported a long sleeve, while the other side exposed her flawless skin with a sleeveless design. The material cradled every curve, making the view from behind as jaw dropping as the front. The fact that there were no visible bra or panty lines made his imagination run wild. His body reacted whenever she was near, but right now he was tempted to skip the party and instead acquaint himself with her svelte, naked body.

  He had never been the jealous type, but seeing her looking like this, all of his possessive genes were on high alert. Granted everyone this evening would be paired up, but all heads would turn when she stepped in and Lincoln would ha—

  “Can I get you anything? Something to drink?”

  Glad that she had interrupted his train of thought, Lincoln slid his arm around her waist. “Actually, there is something I want.” He lowered his mouth to hers and nibbled on her upper lip and then the bottom one, his hands sliding down to her tight butt. Holding her close as he kissed her deeply, no doubt she felt his erection, but at the moment, he didn’t care. He wanted her to know how much he wanted her as he feasted on her sweet lips. Carolyn had a way of taking his need from zero to sixty in a heartbeat and now was no different. The woman had somehow worked her way under his skin and Lincoln wanted all of her.

  Just as quick as the thought popped into his head, he remembered that they had a party to attend. Not wanting to break the connection, he reluctantly lifted his head but didn’t release her.

  “I love kissing you, but if we don’t stop now, I won’t be able to.” His voice was thick with desire.

  “Ye-yeah.” She swallowed, the lust brimming in her eyes turning him on more. “We … uh, yeah we should go.”

  Oh yeah, definitely. They needed to leave, and right now. If she kept looking at him like she wanted to rip off his clothes, he was going to pull her into the nearest bedroom and have his way with her. Lincoln didn’t like to predict the future, but he knew two things for sure: he was in love, and tonight was the night he would take their relationship to the next level.

  Chapter Nine

  Carolyn admired the stately, brick home as she and Lincoln walked along the circular, cobblestone driveway toward the front door. Clear Christmas lights sparkled from the trees in the front yard, on the shrubbery, and every angle of the house.

  Was it only a month ago she had dreaded Christmas coming? Seeing holly and wreaths decorating the city, and hearing Christmas music on the radio, had changed her bah-humbug attitude into a joyous holiday spirit. She even caught herself singing “Jingle Bells” in the shower that morning. Spending the last few weeks with the man of her dreams probably had a lot to do with her improved mood.

  “Welcome. Come in. Come in. Let me take your coats.” A tall woman with sandy brown hair cut into a long bob and smiling hazel eyes ushered them into the large foyer.

  Like outside, Christmas decorations spilled into the interior of the home. As the woman quickly hung up their coats, Carolyn’s gaze took in gold and silver wreaths adorning the walls and doors. A huge Christmas tree with an angel on top stood in a nearby corner with presents spread beneath it.

  “I’m so glad you two made it.”

  “Thanks for having us.” Lincoln hugged the woman with one arm without releasing Carolyn’s hand. “Angela, I’d like for you to meet Carolyn Jenkins. Sweetheart, this is Angela Lee, Conrad’s wife.”

  Carolyn’s heart melted a little every time Lincoln used the endearment. “Nice to meet, Angela.” Her husband, Conrad, was one of Lincoln’s partners at the firm.

  “It’s truly a pleasure.” Angela hugged her tight. “Come and meet everyone else. By the way, your dress is gorgeous. I wish I was brave enough to squeeze these hips into a cute little number like that, but it’s never going to happen.”

  “Oh please, you look fantastic and I have no doubt you could work this dress.” The navy-blue cocktail dress Angela wore complemented her pear shape figure.

  “So who is this lovely lady?”

  Carolyn and Lincoln turned at the sound of a deep voice. A good looking, gray-headed gentleman with the prettiest blue eyes Carolyn had ever seen cast a friendly smile.

  Angela touched Carolyn’s arm. “I need to check with the caterers, so I’ll let Lincoln do introductions. Please make yourself at home.”

  “Thank you.”

  “Conrad, I want you to meet Carolyn Jenkins.” Lincoln squeezed Carolyn’s hand and smiled down at her.

  “Nice to meet you.”

  “Same here. Welcome to our home. We’re still waiting for Blake and his wife, but everyone else is in the living room. Blake is usually late so we’ll give them a few minutes before we sit down for dinner.”

  Lincoln placed a hand at the small of Carolyn’s back and they followed Conrad past an impressive semi-spiral staircase with dark hardwood and ornamental iron railings. From the little she’d seen the house was magnificent.

  Carolyn’s ears perked up when she heard a piano version of “This Christmas” floating through the home, sounding as if it were live. Whoever was playing was better than good as they went seamlessly into “Piano in the Dark”, an Alex Bugnon jazz melody.

  “So, Carolyn, tell me about yourself. What do you do?” Conrad asked.

  “I’m a ba—”

  “Carl’s here? I didn’t know he was in town,” Lincoln interrupted, surprise ringing in his voice as they approached a large room that appeared bigger than the first floor of Carolyn’s house. She assumed Carl was the person sitting at the white, baby-grand piano. A tall woman stood near him, leaning against the piano as though photos for a fashion magazine were being taken.

  The moment they walked into the space, Lincoln introduced them. According to Lincoln, Carl had attended college with him and his business partners, but now lived in Los Angeles. Carl was about their age. His long blond hair, pulled into a ponytail, rested against his collar. His statuesque wife had long brunette hair lying in waves over one shoulder and her face was perfectly made up as she flashed a million-dollar smile. The emerald-green, low-cut cocktail dress was simple but elegant, and brought out the green in her eyes.

  While the small group got reacquainted, Carolyn took in the room. The comfortable leather furniture, brick fireplace, and deep gray walls created a warm, inviting atmosphere. Black and white photos of varying sizes covered the side walls, but what caught Carolyn’s eye was the large painting of the family displayed front and center over the fireplace.

  The group gathered around the piano. “You play beautifully,” Carolyn said. “Alex Bugnon is one of my favorite jazz pianists.”

  “Mine too. Do you play?” Carl pointed at the piano.

  “I do.”

  “Really?” Lincoln’s mouth hung open. “I didn’t know that.”

  Carolyn grinned and wiggled her eyebrows before whispering near his ear, “There’s a lot you don’t know about me.”

  Holding her close, he placed a kiss against her temple. “I’m looking forward to rec
tifying that.” The timbre of his voice made her toes curl. He wanted to know more about her than any of the men in her past.

  Carl moved from the bench. “Play something for us, Carolyn,” he encouraged.

  She took Carl’s spot on the wooden piano bench and glanced at Lincoln’s reassuring grin.

  Carolyn hadn’t played in months, but the moment her fingers touched the black and ivory keys, they glided as if she played daily. Her eyes drifted closed and the melody of “I’ll Always Love You”, a Taylor Dayne classic, poured from her soul and through the piano. As a child, she hated being forced to take up an instrument, but her parents insisted that all of their children play one. Now she was glad they had. She didn’t own a piano, but used the one at her parent’s house occasionally.

  On the last note, Carolyn opened her eyes and the room erupted in applause.

  Lincoln beamed. “That was incredible. You never cease to amaze me.” The admiration in his tone sent chills down her arms and her heart fluttered. This man—this sweet, gorgeous man—had her believing that she could get her happily-ever-after.

  He held his hand out for her to grasp, sliding his arm around her waist and pulling her close. Though silence had been their companion during their ride to Conrad and Angela’s home, the sexual tension filled the space of his car like those of horny teenagers on their way to lover’s lane. Even now, they’d been at the party for twenty minutes and each time he looked at her, touched her, or spoke her name, her sex vibrated with need. She was ready to say to hell with taking things slow, something they had agreed to do days ago. It didn’t help that he looked like a sexy, cover model in his black, double-breasted suit.

  He squeezed her hand again then brought it to his lips, snagging her attention as if knowing where her thoughts had gone. She hadn’t even realized he had stopped talking. The left corner of his mouth lifted into a ghost of a smile and Carolyn almost puddled to the floor.