by Kim Loraine
"You need to calm the fuck down," Easton says, leaning close, so no one else can hear him. "She'll be here."
"How the hell did you do this, man?" My voice is tight. "What if you're wrong, and she realized this is a mistake?"
"I married Ireland in a little chapel in Vegas the day I proposed. The key is, don't give them a chance to run away."
I can't stand waiting like this. What is taking them so long? But then the music starts, and Clover starts down the aisle, her baby bump only slightly visible in the pretty blue dress Hazel chose. Then I see my daughter. Kai is a perfect princess in a fluffy white dress with sparkly shoes and an equally glittery tiara. She grins like a mischievous cat when she gets to the middle of the aisle and halts her progress. I'm about to go to her when she stops, but she holds up a sign that says, Daddy, here comes your bride.
The crowd laughs, and Kai finishes her walk, stopping to hug me first. With her little arms around me, I'm even more certain that filing for joint custody was the best thing to do. I'd rather have Kai full time, but we're moving forward, and that's the best I can hope for.
"I love you, Daddy," she whispers, squeezing me tight.
"Love you, too."
She releases me and takes her place, turning to watch as my beautiful bride approaches. My breath catches when Hazel appears. Her gown hugs her curves, white lace with a silk sash at the waist. Her dark hair falls in curls over one shoulder and the veil she wears makes her look like an angel. The light beams in behind her, giving her a glow. She's heartbreakingly beautiful.
Easton nudges me. "Breathe," he says.
I do. I breathe and remind myself that rushing down the aisle and tossing her over my shoulder, so I can make this go faster would be a terrible idea. She smiles at me, her perfect red lips begging for my kiss. And I know in a few short minutes, I'll be kissing her, claiming her, taking her as my wife in front of God and everyone.
It seems like an eternity before she reaches me, but as soon as I can, I take her hand and pull her close. She laughs and blushes, but I am not letting her go.
The pastor begins the service, but it goes by in a blur. I'm focused on this gorgeous creature who is pledging to spend forever with me. We say the words, make our promises, and I give her a ring. It's important, I know, but I devoted myself to her long before this. There was never going to be another for me once Hazel walked into my life. This is just a formality. Hazel and I are already married in my heart and soul.
The pastor says we can kiss, and I have a sigh of relief. I cup my wife's face and kiss her like no one is watching. She melts into me, her lips tasting sweet, and I swear I can feel her heart racing as her body presses against mine. "I love you," I say when I pull back.
"Me too."
The crowd cheers, and we rush from the church. Well, I rush, Hazel laughs and begs me to slow down. "I need to be alone with you," I say. "You're the most beautiful thing I've ever seen."
"You're not so bad yourself, Mr. Donoghue."
There's press gathered outside the church, and cameras flash and click in our faces as we push past them. "I'm sorry about this."
She frowns at me. "I'm used to the cameras. Besides, it's our wedding day. We're supposed to have sore faces by the time this is over because of all the pictures."
We climb into the back of our limo, and the car takes us away from all the noise and show of it all. It takes a few breaths before reality settles over us. We're married. Married.
There's a chilled bottle of champagne in the car along with two glasses. I pop the cork and pour us each a flute, handing her one, but she shakes her head.
"None for me."
Cocking my eyebrow, I tease. "Why? Did I knock you up already?" Her cheeks burn a bright pink, and she bites her lower lip. Apprehension builds in my gut. "Hazel?"
"I...I took a test this morning."
"Are you fucking serious?" My smile can't be tamed. The thought of this woman, my woman, growing heavy with my baby sends a wave of arousal through me.
"Are you mad? I know it's soon."
"Mad? Baby, I couldn't be happier. Kaia is going to flip out. She loves babies."
I set aside her glass and take a long drink from mine, the bubbles burning my throat. We're having a baby. Fuck.
"I love you so much," her voice wobbles. "Sorry. I'm really emotional. And my boobs hurt."
Brushing her hair away from her face, I lean in and kiss her. "I'll be gentle. I promise." I reach behind her and lower the zipper of her dress, gently pulling the lace off her shoulders and revealing her lingerie. It's a strapless corset with sheer cups. I can see her nipples through the fabric. "Jesus, you're really naughty for a good girl."
"Who says I'm a good girl? I'm a former nanny who let my boss do dirty things to me in his office."
That takes me from aroused to rock hard and aching. "And what about your husband? Are you going to let him do even naughtier things in the back of a limo?"
"Yes, please."
Her breathy voice has me wishing there weren't so many hooks on her bra. I finally undo them, and her breasts fall free. She winces at the movement. I gently cup their weight, noticing they are fuller already, her nipples dark, hard little points. Taking one into my mouth, I suck hard, and she tosses her head back and moans.
"We don't have a very long ride to the reception," she protests.
She's right, but I don't want to give her up just yet. "One sec." I pull out my phone and message the driver to take us around the long way. Then, I slide my hands up Hazel's dress until I find her bare and beautiful. "No panties? God, I love you."
She's soaked. Ready for me, and I'm not going to make her wait. I free my erection and move to position myself between her legs, but she stops me with a hand on my chest. "I want to ride you."
Fuck. Yes. I sit and watch as she rucks up her skirt before straddling me. The moment her heat envelops my cock, I let out a loud groan as pleasure courses through me. She rolls her hips, and I rest my palm over her belly where our baby is growing. Her eyes lock on mine and something primal and real sparks between us. This is my forever. Hazel is my family, and as she moves over me and brings us both to our peaks I know there's nothing that will keep us apart.
About the Author
Kim Loraine was raised a Navy brat but spent most of her life growing up in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. A proper Washingtonian, she's addicted to coffee, doesn't let a little rain ruin her day, and thinks the sun is a gift from God. When not chasing her three little minions around, Kim spends her time writing, reading, and binge watching Doctor Who.
Never miss an update!
Click here to receive Kim’s newsletter
Follow Kim on social media
www.kimlorainewriter.com
[email protected]
Join Kim’s reader group
www.facebook.com/groups/kimlorainebooks
Sneak Peek
The Virgin’s Fake Fiance
Nothing’s better than a hot British guy…especially if he’s just asked you to be his fake fiancé.
The Virgins Series
The Virgin’s Fake Fiancé
Chapter 1
Charity
The driver pulls up to the hotel, and, I swear to God, my chest feels like it's going to explode with anxiety. Instead of getting out, I sit in the town car— the scent of stale cigarette smoke and leather seats making me mildly nauseous.
"Hey, lady. We're here. You can sit there all you want, but you gotta pay for it." My driver's strong New York accent reminds me I'm not in Montana anymore.
"Sorry," I mutter, rifling through my purse until I find my wallet. I grab a twenty and hand it to him, but he raises an eyebrow.
"I'm not a taxi driver. It's fifty from the airport."
Panic lances my chest. Fifty? I should've just taken a taxi. In a rush of anxiety, I start digging around in my bag, searching for more money. I know I have it, but there's nothing in my wallet.
"Come on, lady." He's annoye
d, and I'm rushing.
"Hold this," I say, handing him my wallet and searching deeper in the handbag. Then I remember my suitcase in the back. I'd tucked an extra hundred in the secret inside pocket because I don't like to have all my cash in one place. "Can you make change? I have more cash in my bag."
He nods, and I get out of the car, making my way to the trunk to grab my suitcase. But the driver pulls back into traffic faster than I can holler, "Hey! Wait!"
I run after him, hoping he'll see me and slow down, but it's no use. He's lost in a sea of cars and busses, and it's all I can do to keep from screaming in frustration. Taking a deep breath, I force myself to calm down. I fight back the hot tears burning my eyes. I will not burst into hysterics on the streets of Manhattan.
It's not the end of the world. I can call the car company. Tell them what happened. Tell them the guy stole my suitcase. Panic rises again, but I push it down. No. It's going to be fine. I'm sure the guy will return my bag. What I need now is a shower to wash away this day.
The hotel lobby is bright and clean, with high ceilings and marble floors. Swanky is the word my dad would have used. He was a cowboy, through and through, and he never understood why I wanted to be in the city so badly. It's everything I love. The hum of life, people rushing from place to place, tourists exploring with excited expressions, movies and television shows being filmed. There's always something happening here. Montana is peaceful and slow. Perfect for some—not me. But that doesn't mean I get to stay here. I've got a dying farm waiting for me when I get back. Until then, I'm going to enjoy my time in the city.
"Welcome to The Stanton Hotel," the concierge says as I approach the desk. "Do you have a reservation?"
I smile, brushing my hair away from my face. I must look like a hot mess after chasing down the car. "I do. Charity Baker."
He offers me a patronizing smile and starts typing. "I'll need a photo ID and a credit card."
My hand goes to my purse immediately, digging through the large bag in search of my wallet. "One second, sorry. I just had it in the car."
I continue searching. Why do I have such an enormous handbag? Anxiety creeps up my spine when I still haven't found the candy pink Kate Spade wallet I'd bought myself three seasons ago as a graduation gift. I plop my bag on the counter, and the concierge frowns. "It's here somewhere." I laugh nervously and remember my utter stupidity in the car. I handed the guy my wallet. I handed him my wallet and as good as asked him to rob me. I'd been so concerned about my suitcase I forgot he had my wallet in his hand.
He doesn't look sympathetic. "Miss. I can't check you in without identification and a major credit card."
Oh, God. I think I'm going to cry. This guy doesn't look like the type who cares. Crying won't help my case. "I…the driver stole my wallet and suitcase. I don't…" My stupid voice wobbles with every word.
"Charlie, what's all this then?" A deep, masculine voice fills my ears, his posh English accent covering me like a warm blanket.
"Oh, Mr. Harper. Everything's fine. This young lady doesn't have her ID. I was just explaining that we can't—"
"What's your name, love?" Mr. Harper asks. He turns his gaze on me, deep blue eyes penetrating the last of my resolve. The man is gorgeous. He's probably in his early thirties, tall, built, with a chiseled jaw that would rival Superman.
"Wow," I whisper before I can stop myself.
His eyebrows rise, and a smile spreads his kissable mouth. "Pardon?"
Pulling it together, I clear my throat. "Charity. My name is Charity Baker, and I've had a reservation for months. My driver took my stuff. God, I was such an idiot to be so trusting. He drove off as soon as I got out."
"I see." He stares at me, that smile still present, but there's heat in his gaze. "Charlie, please check Miss Baker in. I'll cover her until she's able to retrieve her wallet. Charity, do you have the license plate number of the car? The company name?"
I frown, trying to recall. "Blue Star Town Cars. That was the name on his dashboard. I don't remember the plate number."
"We'll find their number."
To my surprise, Charlie nods and starts typing. In moments, he's handing me my plastic key card and telling me he hopes I enjoy my stay. Relief hits me as soon as I turn away from the desk. "Thank you," I say to my rescuer. "That was really nice of you."
"My pleasure. There are a few perks to owning a hotel. This is one of them."
"You're the owner?" My shock is clear in my tone.
He nods. "Lincoln Harper, but you can call me Linc." He puts his hand on the small of my back, and I nearly melt on the spot. "Now, Miss Baker, allow me to escort you to your room."
"Oh, I'm sure I can find it on my own." I don't know why I'm protesting. This handsome British guy basically rode in like a knight on a white horse and saved me. He's my prince charming. I should welcome every minute I have with him.
"Ah, but I think I'd like to get to know you a little. Since I'm letting you stay here on faith." He grins as we step into the elevator. "How long will you be staying with us?"
"A week. I'm here for a reunion tomorrow. But I'm staying longer so I can spend some time in the city without a bunch of stuff to do."
His eyes burn into mine. "And you came alone?"
I shrug and look away. "I used to live here. I'm not afraid of the city." Then I think of the car and my missing bag. "But I guess I'm a little out of practice. I lost my wallet and my suitcase in one fell swoop. It's bad enough I'm going to my sorority reunion without a boyfriend, but I'll have to go dressed in yoga pants and a tank top. All I have is a failing farm in Montana that I don't want and a degree I can't use."
Stop rambling, I tell myself. I'm going to scare British Superman away. His hand rises, and he brushes a stray tear from my cheek. There's tenderness in his gaze.
"Charity, I think we can help each other. I have a proposition for you."
The Virgin’s Fake Fiancé
Sneak Peek
Rescuing His Virgin
Keep reading for the first chapter of Clover and Sawyer’s story in Rescuing His Virgin.
Rescuing His Virgin
Chapter 1
Clover
“You didn’t mention these firefighters would be the hot variety,” I whisper to Kelsey as I watch the five groomsmen walk into the lobby of The Stanton hotel. They’re all broad shoulders, chiseled jaws, and each one looks like trouble.
“Well, Dave is hot. Why would you assume all of his firefighter buddies wouldn’t be?”
Her fiancé is gorgeous, clean cut, built, and totally not my type. I like them rough and a little dangerous. In short, I like a bad boy. “Because that’s the stereotype. I figured Dave was a rare find.”
She laughs and waves across the aisle at the man in question. He’s smiling at her like she’s his entire world, and honestly, she should be. Kelsey has been through a lot with that man. The injuries, nights spent waiting up to see if he’s coming home after a bad call, and the distance. She’s told me time and again, being with a firefighter can be lonely. They need time to process the things they see and typically, they don’t like to talk about it. I’ve been there, done that with a man who wouldn’t communicate. Never again.
“Please tell me I’m walking down the aisle with a cousin or brother.”
Kelsey inspects her manicure a few seconds too long and I instantly know what she’s going to say. “Sawyer is like a brother to Dave. Does that help?”
“Is he a fire house brother?”
She frowns. “Yes, but hear me out, Dave said Sawyer is one of the best firefighters he’s ever been on a crew with. He’s a great guy.” I fight back the complaint and watch her glance nervously around the lobby. This is her weekend, not mine. “It’s not like you’re staying in the same room all weekend. You just have to make nice and walk down the aisle. Then…let the chips fall where they may.”
I sigh and tug at the skirt of my dress to make sure it sits right. “Fine. It’s just a few days together, what’s the w
orst that could happen, right?”
She grins. “I know one thing that could happen.”
A nervous flutter begins in my belly. “Kels…what are you plotting?”
“I just thought, since you’ve been saying you want to finally trade in your V-card, I’d do you a favor. Just promise you won’t tell Dave I set you two up.”
“What?”
“Let’s just say, your knight in shining bunker gear is right over there. If I were you, I wouldn’t pass up the opportunity.”
I follow her gaze to the group of guys and wonder which of those men is for me. Sawyer. Even his name is sexy. Shaking my head to clear my thoughts, I paste a smile on my face. “Okay. Are you ready to rehearse this thing so we can go have a drink and eat food? I’m starving.”
A laugh falls from her and she shakes her head. “Not everyone is here yet.”
“Who is missing?”
“Hunter and Emma. She’s like nine months pregnant so I’m surprised she’s even coming tonight.” Her gaze travels to the front door and she smiles. “Oh, there they are. Great, we can get started.” She bustles over to Emma and Hunter, dispenses hugs as the heavily pregnant woman walks in with her husband at her side. The way he looks at her mimics Dave’s devotion to Kelsey. It makes me long for that kind of love.
“It looks like you’re mine.” The deep rumble of a dangerously sexy voice fills my ears and makes tingles rush to places they shouldn’t even as his claim on me raises my hackles.
“Excuse me?” I turn on my heels, ready to shut this guy down, but my mouth runs dry at the olive toned skin, light green eyes, and dark hair.