Charlie: Northern Grizzlies (Book 4)

by M. Merin

  “Tabby can be our family, too. I liked her.” She smiles at us. “Connal, can you unzip me?”

  Charlie’s request and look in her eyes leave no doubt as to what she wants to do erase this day.

  Jake

  Connal and I take Charlie in turns, never speaking of it but we’re both aware of how fragile she is right now. We devote ourselves to worshipping her body, licking her pussy lovingly. Kissing her like grammar school kids. Making love like it’s our honeymoon.

  She reaches for us constantly and we give her everything until she’s sated.

  Waiting until her typical light snoring has kicked in; I tell Connal what happened in barely a whisper.

  “Last night, he said something about everything sorting out. He fucking knew she had grandparents and played up to her last night. Knowing that your parents wouldn’t mind her background as much, once they found out.” Connal responds, trying not to raise his voice.

  “I know. And agree his lead up was bullshit, but dragging her away from them tonight - until she was ready, wasn’t right. Tomorrow, we see what she wants and go from there.” I insist.

  “Both of you,” Charlie whispers. “If they want to be a part of my life, they may figure that out. You okay with that, Jake?”

  “Not changing my mind. The three of us.” I kiss her thoroughly, so she knows I’m all in.

  “Connal, come with us to see them tomorrow?” She asks quietly.

  “Not leaving you again during this trip.” He vows. “Get some sleep now, we’ll watch over you.”

  *

  I get up early and ring the housekeeper for a breakfast tray; staying in the front room until it’s delivered so I won’t disturb Connal and Charlie with my pacing.

  One way or another, last night was going to be interesting but what my Gramps pulled was shitty, and we will have it out before the three of us return home. I’m lost in thought and barely notice my phone vibrating.

  “What the hell happened last night?” Tabby asks without preamble.

  “Gramps figured out who Charlie’s grandparents were; that they had no idea she existed and fucking sprung them on us,” I growl.

  “Oh, shit.” She replies, nearly speechless. “Is she alright?”

  “TBD,” I reply, getting a giggle from her.

  “Sorry, that’s the Jake I know; still not used to you using full sentences,” Tabs explains. “Look, I have a shift in an hour; and some patients who are overdue. Will you call me when you get home?”

  “I’ll text.”

  “Whatever. I have an opportunity I wanted to talk to you about; so call.” She sounds like she’s brushing her teeth and talking at the same time. Who does that? “Love you, big brother.”

  “Me too,” I say before disconnecting.

  Looking through the window, I see someone rolling a cart this way so I quickly step forward to get that and take breakfast back to Charlie and Connal.

  Connal

  “I could get used to this,” I grin at Jake, lifting my head to watch him roll a cart, overloaded with food into the room.

  Rolling over, I cuddle into Charlie. Cupping one of her breasts in my hand, I lightly kiss her neck until she wiggles back into me; smiling, but refusing to open her eyes.

  “Jake, she needs bacon!” I loudly whisper, getting her to giggle for my efforts. Jake crawls onto the bed from his side, hanging a piece over her head. Barely opening her eyes, she lunges for the bacon; snapping half of it off.

  “Shit, it’s dangerous here!” He laughs, having dropped the other half.

  “No kidding?” Charlie mumbles around her bacon, finally opening her eyes.

  “How you feeling, Baby Girl?” I ask.

  “Hungry now, then we’ll talk,” She responds as Jake backs off to dish up food for us. More importantly, coffee for me. “We’re still leaving tomorrow, right?”

  “God, yes.” He says before thinking. “Unless you want more time with the Scotts? But eat first.”

  Chapter 30

  Charlie

  “Jake?” I ask as we’re finishing breakfast. “I know you didn’t get much time with your family. Maybe we could go to that brunch before w…”

  “I’m good. I got time with dad yesterday when they were taking pictures.” His words bring relief; I can’t imagine seeing his family right now.

  “What do you want to do?” Connal asks.

  “Jake, if you could call them? I don’t know how far away they are? Maybe figure out a time we can go and see them?” I ask him as I dig through my suitcase.

  Grabbing fresh clothes, I head off for a long shower. Both Connal and Jake are acting like I’m made of glass right now, but really I’m just sad.

  Sad for the heartache that couple endured.

  Sad for my mother, working so damn hard to provide for me; not knowing there would have been some help.

  Anger wells in me but I push that away. It serves no purpose right now. I can’t say what my father would have wanted; all I can do is hear them out and move forward based on how they treat not only me but Jake and Connal, as well.

  I snort to myself. How does that conversation go? ‘Nice to meet you, I have two husbands. Please don’t judge.’ That sounds better in my head than, ‘I was a virgin, and, well, it was an accident.’

  Regardless, I’m not giving either of them up; if the Scotts want to be in my life they will just have to accept me, as is.

  Dragging myself out of the shower, I braid my hair and put on my armor. Jeans. I’m sure we’re going somewhere fancy, but the beautiful clothes aren’t me and they best accept that right away. Walking out to the living room, I smile.

  Connal and Jake are back in their customary jeans, T-shirts, and cuts. Perfect.

  “How’s our girl?” Connal asks.

  “Good,” I reach for their hands. “What’s the plan?”

  “Gramps’ car will take us to their hotel. They have a suite and we thought that would be the best place to meet. Whenever you’re ready, they don’t have any other plans.” Jake tells me, wrapping his arms around me. “All at your pace, Baby.”

  I smile, holding them both close; enjoying the words they promised me when they asked for this relationship.

  “I’m ready,” I answer and head to the door.

  The three of us walk towards the driveway, passing the guests who are showing up for the wedding brunch. I walk confidently between the guys, we’re back in our usual clothes and not putting on airs to impress anyone; that alone causes people to stop and gawk. That, or the two hunks by my side, I think while winking at one of Jake’s aunts.

  Before I know it, we’re knocking on the door to the Scotts’ suite; they look confused at Connal’s presence but graciously greet us.

  “Yesterday,” I start after we all get settled.

  “Please,” Charles says. “We got upset with Jarrett’s grandfather last night; he shouldn’t have tried to stage our meeting that way.”

  “He goes by Jake,” I nod. “And, thank you. That, well, you know.”

  “You’re a mechanic, I understand?” Mona asks.

  “Yes, my Grandpa,” My eyes flick quickly to Charles. “He was one and after mom died, we would spend time working on cars. Well, mostly me handing him tools and watching what he did.” I smile at the memories.

  “What did your Mom tell you about your Dad?” Charles asks.

  “I don’t remember a lot, I just know she would smile sometimes and say I was just like him. She cried at night when she thought I was asleep.” I pause, my throat tightening. “Oh, I brought a couple pictures. I don’t have many.”

  I dig into my purse and pull out the five I brought; their wedding pictures and a couple of me when I was a child, I hand them over. Mona lets out a soft sob and holds their wedding picture to her chest.

  “Um, maybe we can go and get copies made at a drugstore?” I offer.

  “Your mother was very pretty, Charlie,” Charles says, after several tries. “Our boy looks so happy here. We would very mu
ch like a copy and of your pictures as well.”

  “I saw a place a block down,” Connal speaks up. “I can just run them over now.”

  “I’m sorry, it’s been so much; did I hear your name is Connor?” Mona asks as she hands the pictures to him.

  “Connal, ma’am,” He smiles at her. “Your granddaughter is very special.”

  Watching him leave, I nearly miss the confused glance shared between the older couple.

  “And you work for him?” Charles asks me while looking at Jake and my joined hands.

  “Yes, he lives with us also,” I say, not ready to overshare.

  “I met Connal in Basic Training,” Jake explains. “He was in for four years but I had up’d for six and when I got out, I followed him out to Idaho.”

  “I don’t want to overstep, but how concerned should we be about Charlie being involved with a man tied to a biker gang?” Charles asks.

  “It’s a club, sir, not a gang. Neither Connal nor I have criminal records,” Jake replies in a harder voice. “I fell in love with Charlie the minute I saw her, I’m…”

  “I’m not concerned about Connal and can only imagine he will find a new place to live now that you’re married,” Charles’ voice gets louder and Mona and I exchange a glance. “I’m not so naïve to think that this motorcycle group…”

  “Connal will stay with us,” I insert. “As you said, you don’t want to overstep; I don’t want you two fighting. Mr. Scott, um, Charles, I…”

  “Charlie is quite right, Charles,” Mona takes over for me. “Both men served this country and Jake says he has no record. Please.”

  Connal

  I wasn’t gone more than a half an hour but immediately notice the tension in the room when I return with the photos.

  “Thank you, Connal,” Mona says when I hand her the envelope. “Oh, let me pay you for them!”

  “No, no worries about that,” I assure her, crossing to sit down next to Charlie. “Everything okay?”

  “I forgot the feeling of worrying for a child,” Mr. Scott says, looking between Jake and Charlie. “I know you haven’t had anyone to watch over you for a good portion of your life and I am partially responsible for that.

  “I knew Jake’s grandfather a long time and he assures us you are a good man. I will trust in that, Jake. But Charlie, please know we are here if you ever need anything. We would very much like to remain in touch with you.”

  “We would like to visit you,” Mona quickly corrects him. “Maybe have the chance to get to know you, once this shock wears down?”

  “I’d like that,” Charlie smiles at her. “Well, I don’t want to hurt either of you, but if I may start by using your first names? I kind of need to wrap my brain around grandparents. Also, if you have pictures of my Dad, maybe I can get some?”

  “Of course, Charlie, I’ll put together an album for you when I get home. Oh! And a medical history, I know that’s so important nowadays.” Mona exclaims. “And we can talk about a visit? I don’t know what your plans are for today, maybe we could have dinner tonight?”

  That is quickly decided, and Mr. Scott once again raises an eyebrow in my direction when Charlie says it will be the five of us.

  Heading back to Jake’s grandfather’s house, the housekeeper quickly signals us to follow her. Following Jake and Charlie to Mr. Forsythe’s office, he’s standing in there with Jake’s father.

  “Charlie!” Rick quickly greats her. “What news this is! Why, I remember the Scotts from years ago. And to think they would never have known about you if Jarrett hadn’t married you.”

  He gushes on, while Mr. F. takes in the looks on our faces.

  “Charlie, I owe you an apology,” He says, crossing to her. “When I realized that the names and dates matched, well, I got overly excited and wanted it to be a surprise. It took me a bit to track them down and well… Unfortunately, I didn’t take everyone’s feelings into consideration and even my housekeeper has scolded me this morning. I am truly sorry to have put you in that situation.”

  He seems so goddamn sincere, that Jake and I relax a bit; looking down to gauge Charlie’s response. She studies his face for a long moment before placing her hand in his outstretched hand.

  “Your execution sucked,” Charlie begins, getting a laugh from Jake while Rick’s mouth drops open. “But I’m happy for the chance to get to know them, so thank you.”

  “I owe you an apology also, Jake,” He turns to him, grasping his shoulder. “I’ve always had a soft spot for you and I’ve ruined this visit.”

  Jake simply nods, squeezing his arm in reply.

  “Most of the family is out on the terrace; why don’t you three change and come join us?” Rick steps forward.

  “I think they are fine as they are,” Mr. F. looks over his shoulder at his son before turning back to us. “Will you join me?”

  Charlie nods and takes his hand, we follow her out. I don’t miss Rick’s frown aimed at what we’re wearing.

  “Charlie!” Jake’s mom calls out, drawing everyone’s attention as she crosses to us. “Darling, I never got to tell you how lovely you looked yesterday.”

  “Did she look bad on Friday night, Connal?” Jake throws over his shoulder to me, getting a laugh from Charlie.

  “She looked hot both nights,” I reply. Fuck, she’s mine too, and I don’t give a damn what any of these people think at this point.

  “Thank you, Mrs. Forsythe,” Charlie replies.

  “Please! You’re family now, Charlie. I know we don’t know other well and while Muffy likes to call me ‘Mother’, please don’t feel pressured to call me anything other than Elsbeth,” She replies somewhat stiffly, unhappy with our comments.

  “Alright,” Charlie narrows her eyes at her. “Since I loved my mother so much, I’d never dream of using that title for anyone else.”

  “Do you know your great-grandparents were at our wedding?” Elsbeth asks next, trying to play up to our woman.

  Jake

  “Give it a rest, Ma,” I insert, getting annoyed at her sudden attempt to be nice.

  “Jarrett! She may very well be carrying my next grandchild, of course, I want to talk to her,” Elsbeth responds.

  “Jake?” Charlie asks. “Friday night was a blur, I know Tabby isn’t here but can we talk to some of your siblings?”

  “Of course, follow me,” My mother interjects. And people wonder why I don’t bother to speak much.

  *

  “Oh my God! Do we even have time for a nap?” Charlie asks once we’re back in the guest house. I shake my head. “My God, Jake, they never stop talking.”

  I pin her up to the wall. Kissing her for all I’m worth as Connal watches.

  “Do we need to change?” He finally asks.

  “Fuck that,” I growl.

  “Give me some sugar Charlie, then let’s go.” He responds, moving forward.

  “Tonight! I want you both in me,” Charlie mewls when he pulls away from her mouth.

  *

  “They know,” Charlie says when we’re all in the car after dinner.

  “No way,” I answer, pulling her onto my lap.

  “Jake, her grandfather is sharp as fuck. He kept questioning my presence and why “we” bought a house together when you were marrying her.” Connal responds.

  “Well, you’re having breakfast with Mona before we fly out tomorrow; do you want to tell her?” I ask. “I don’t give a shit. We’ll take care of you, Baby.”

  “I will tell them,” Charlie promises. “I just don’t want to freak them out right now. I want to know them a little.”

  “Done.”

  “Agreed.” Connal and I both promise.

  Arriving to my grandfather’s house, I send Connal and Charlie ahead to the guest house and head to his office. Waiting a moment; his housekeeper, Donna, opens the door. No matter that she’s in her fifties, I know the look of a woman who was just getting some.

  “Sorry to interrupt, Gramps,” I smile at him.

&nb
sp; “Fuck off,” He snaps back. “You of all of them don’t get to…”

  “Don’t care,” I hold up my hands in surrender.

  “I’m going to marry her. Quietly, but in the next couple months,” Gramps says, looking out the French doors.

  “As long as you’re happy,” I reply, smiling to myself.

  “Are you and Connal lovers?”

  “No,” I reply after a beat.

  “He and Charlie?” He asks next. “I’ve noticed the rings the three of you wear.”

  “Charlie is with both of us. Our plan, she was,” I pause, hating to talk about shit that isn’t anyone’s business. “She was very, very innocent. We wanted to share.”

  “And if she has…”

  “I gotta whole fucking will and prenup that says his kids from her are mine, that sleeping with him isn’t adultery in my eyes. Want to see the video of the wedding where we both kissed her?” I respond, trying to stay calm.

  “You really want to act like this is alright?” He snaps at me.

  “Don’t care what anyone else thinks. She took us as a package. We won’t hurt her; we’ll protect and love her together…”

  “That is so messed up; I can’t even imagine how anyone could…” He grounds out.

  “Then don’t,” I start.

  “I know her fucking grandparents,” He continues. “When they go to visit her; damn, when she gives birth eventually! They’ll figure it out and the gossip will kill us.”

  “Jake?” Charlie says my name from the doorway. “I didn’t want to sleep without you.”

  I cross to her, kissing her forehead and holding her close.

  “Mr. Forsythe,” She says looking at him while I hold her. “You apologized to me earlier, and I really appreciated that. Tomorrow, out of respect for you, I will tell my grandparents about our relationship. They can make their decision about whether or not to be in my life. Please understand I am completely committed to Jake and Connal. They share such a bond and now me as well. I…”

  “You whored yourself out, I get it.” Gramps cruelly cuts in.

  “Go pack, Baby,” I push her towards the door, moving to strike out at my grandfather.

  “No! Jake,” She attaches herself to me. “No.”