by SJ Molloy
It’s a lovely day so I put on a navy sundress with thin straps. It’s fitted at the bust with three white buttons and then flowing out at the bottom just above my knees.
Light, smart, and cute.
I slip into navy ballet flats and grab my white linen blazer in case I get cold. I’m finishing my makeup in front of the mirror when my handsome Italian god’s image catches my eye.
“You look beautiful. I like this. It is cute and has easy access.” Lucca stands behind me and runs his hand under the thin material of the dress, up my inner thighs to cup my sex, making me tingle all over with desire.
“Lucca, there is a house full of people downstairs.” I draw a sharp breath when his fingers tease my clit under the sheer fabric of my panties. Oh my God, I’m pulsing for him, wet and already contracting my muscles within my sex …
“Lucca, I’m bleeding. It’s very light but still,” I say, mortified.
“It does not bother me, baby. Did I not make that clear at the farmhouse?” he says, nibbling my ear as his thumb flicks over my aroused clit.
“You’re shameless,” I protest, but my body betrays me yet again.
“And you are sexy as fuck,” he arrogantly retorts, biting down and nibbling on my earlobe.
He slides my spaghetti straps down, kissing my shoulders, then opens the bustier, popping the white buttons with his thumb. He pulls the dress down to my midriff, exposing my naked breasts to the mirror.
“No bra? You are going to kill me, but I will take full advantage of this later,” he says, turning me around to face him, swirling his wet tongue over my erect nipples, which tugs on the direct link to my vibrating sex.
“Oh God, Lucca,” I moan.
“Do you like this?”
I softly moan as his tongue circles around my areola, over my sensitive nipples, almost sending me over the edge, making me jerk. I’m hot, sensitive, and energised. I can’t refuse; I want him to make me come.
He teases my nipples, causing a flurry of butterflies to spread their wings in my stomach. Slipping his hand under my dress, he fondles the tiny strap of my panties then rubs his fingers over my sex through the minuscule triangle of material, causing me to go weak at my knees.
Quickly, he slinks his fingers under my panties once more to tease my wet, sensitive clit as he sucks my right nipple and massages my left. He doesn’t need to enter me; he has me here. Not that he would object or think twice. I discovered that in Tuscany. He’s shamelessly dirty and persistent.
Leaning back against my dressing table, I weave my fingers in his sexy, shaggy, black locks.
“Oh … ahhh … Luc …” I groan when he’s triggered that switch that ejects me into a spinning orbit leaving my body humming with intense desire.
I’ve no time to feel inhibitions. I need more of Lucca to help draw me from my dark fear, and now it’s the time to make me forget. I’m drenched and pulsing for him.
I relish under his touch. I’m throbbing, shaking with a rippling shock of pleasure pulsing around me. He slides his hand up over my navel and rests on my stomach, the other on my right breast.
“Better?”
“Hmm … Yes … very.” I smile.
“I wanted you leaving on a high, not worried or anxious. I am trying so fucking hard not to badger you onto the bed and slide deep inside you, but we need to go soon.” He’s struggling because his bulging arousal in his jeans is very prominent and pressing against my inner thighs.
“So what if I let you slide inside and we’re a little late because right now I want you to take me?”
I kiss his lips, lifting myself off the dressing table, feeling very desperate to leave on said “high” he mentioned.
“You are always going to get what you want, do you know that?” He groans, thrusting against me. His hard denim-clad bulge hits my sweet spot as he grabs my ass, pulling me in closer to him. I’m glad to be demanding in this instance and get what I want.
“Yep, and I’m using it to your advantage and of course mine. Shower, Romeo,” I order.
“I was hoping you would say that, baby, because my cock needs you badly.”
He picks me up and carries me into the bathroom, and minutes later he’s deep inside me in the shower, and I take everything I can.
Rose has prepared breakfast for everyone, with all the men tucking in for seconds and scoffing some of her chocolate brownies. I chose not to have any before travelling, plus I have an awful metallic taste in my mouth and feel sickly, so instead, I sip a cup of tea.
Peter has checked all the cameras, and Marco has welcomed two new Men in Black to our entourage. They’ll remain on Lucca’s property while we’re gone. I call my mum from the living room to confirm were leaving shortly, only to get thirty minutes of anxiety, grief, and stress.
I hope she calms down before I get there because this could be very draining.
Cameron and Anna stop by before we leave to say goodbye. Anna saunters in and squeezes me to the point I just might break. Rose prepares to make another round of pancakes so they can dig in. She puts her hand on my forehead with concern and says I look very pale today.
“I might just need to stop by to get Rose to cook for me while you’re away. Hazel’s pulled the plug on feeding me,” Cameron remarks, scoffing a brownie. He’s actually serious too.
Leaving the kitchen, I approach the living room for my hand bag and come to a halt in the hallway hearing exchanged words. Lucca is talking to someone else. Cameron and Anna have not arrived alone. I recognise the voice.
Why would he be here again?
I wonder whether I should leave them alone, but then it could get messy so I decide to interrupt to save Jackson from Lucca’s grilling. Inhaling a deep breath, I step forward. Jackson is standing in front of the fireplace with one hand on the nape of his neck while Lucca has his back to me, rubbing his forehead with his middle finger and thumb. Jackson looks better every time I see him. He doesn’t look smooth today, more rough and ready.
I stand at the doorway nervously picking at the skin on my palms, embarrassed and ashamed that Jackson is no doubt privy to my past after Kimberley’s devious confession. Lucca and Jackson both silence their conversation when they glance at me, inevitably noticing I look pale and tired.
“Hey,” Jackson says, settling on a sympathetic smile.
“Hey,” I whisper, dropping my head.
“I just wanted to stop by and make sure you were okay. I had no idea. I’m sorry. Cameron and Lucca have enlightened me on the basics, but I wanted to reassure you that I will keep this very private and not disclose it to anyone. If there is anything I can do to help …” He’s careful, decent, and appropriate around Lucca, around me.
Deep down Jackson is uneasy. He’s shifting his weight from side to side with one hand in his jeans’ pocket, the other still on the nape of his neck.
Lucca reaches for me, taking my hand, then gently tilts my head back up with two fingers under my chin. “You good?” He searches my face, my eyes.
“Yes, just tired I suppose.” I must be strong in front of him. I know he called Casey Huddersfield this morning and that can only mean one thing. Therapy. Staring back at Lucca’s eyes, we have one of our hushed conversations. He knows exactly what I’m asking of him.
“Okay, I will be in the kitchen. I will give you a minute.” I nod my head and force a smile, thanking him for the understanding and privacy.
Before leaving, he graces my lips with a tender kiss in front of Jackson then lowers his eyes, silently telling me he trusts me but to keep distance. I know this wordless plea. Thanking him, I squeeze his hand before he closes the door.
The surrounding air is thick, laced with a hazy, subdued, and uncertain atmosphere. We stand and stare for what seems like forever. Finally breaking the silence, I walk over to the sofa and sit, reaching my hand out towards Jackson. Looking relieved, he takes my hand clasping it in his and sits next to me.
“Thank you for looking out for me at the club.”
“You’re welcome. I just wish you didn’t have such an unpleasant experience with that Kimberley girl, and I’m sorry you had to experience that.”
“Me too, but the reality is she’s done me a favour. At least I won’t be sneaking away from security from now on, and you got to witness my party piece … bonus.” A gentle smile spreads across his face at my attempt to lighten the mood.
“The falling or the fainting?” he asks, which makes me blush.
“Both, I’m sorry.”
“Don’t be. As long as you’re well.”
“I hope I will be, Jackson, I do hope so.” I close my eyes, filled with disquiet, exhaustion, and scepticism.
“You will. Of course you will. Lucca will take great care of you. Nothing’s going to happen to you, Alexis.” He smiles, stroking my hand trying to comfort me, but his look is more a sorrowful smile of pity. I lower my head because I don’t think I could look into those chocolate velvet eyes right now.
“What did Cameron tell you?” I ask.
“Enough … but please don’t worry. You can trust me. This will go no further. I give you my word.” He sighs.
Oh God, he knows I was abused, brutally tortured, and mentally and physically tormented. He knows how I was brought into this world, but I know Cameron wouldn’t disclose how we became free leaving that world behind. Cameron will always protect my feelings and integrity, I know that for certain.
Tensing, I bite the inside of my cheek and grind my teeth.
“There are only a handful of people who know this and who I trust, Jackson, so I need you to forget about it and treat us as if you didn’t know and of course keep it private. You’ll understand that I find it difficult to talk about.” Involuntarily, I chew the inside of my cheek.
I watch his shoulders rise and his coffee coloured eyes soften. He sympathises.
“You’ve really helped me this week, for that I’m grateful, and Lucca is appreciative … even if he appears a bit alpha male. I hope you’ll continue your friendship with Cameron and this won’t affect that, but I know it’s awkward and changes the dynamics a little because Lucca probably doesn’t want you to see me, so for that I’m sorry.”
I fidget, shuffle, and then continue, “I also need to ask you to keep a distance from Kimberley. She’s a deceitful game player and could tarnish your reputation as well as ours and will no doubt try to meddle. She wouldn’t have thought twice about releasing those photographs, I’m sure.” I fidget with the hem of my dress with my free hand.
He contently listens still holding my hand but now it’s his turn.
“She won’t get anywhere near me. Security will make sure of that, and I have PR specialists and agents dealing with any bad press so they’ll be all over it. I’d never judge so please don’t worry about what I think, and it certainly doesn’t change my friendship with Cameron or how I feel about you.” His voice softens as his thumb brushes the skin of my hand.
Shit. Thoughts are feelings and feelings need to be filed.
End of.
Period!
“And how do you feel about me?” These are dangerous waters, but I need to know.
“I’m not going to lie. I have strong feelings for you. I like you a lot, but I’m respectful and a decent man despite what the press says about me. I would never interfere with your relationship. I accept that Lucca is one lucky guy, and you’ll always be his, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still remain friends. You don’t need to be embarrassed and hide from me because I know about your past. It changes nothing. I’m friends with Cameron, and I very much hope I can be your friend also.”
Oh my.
Fuck!
File S for stunned. Stunned at his sincerity.
I didn’t realise we were friends, well not really, but then we did have a down-to-earth chat at the club before the drama, one I felt rather comfortable having. He’s been friends with Cameron for years and other than the occasional unavoidable meeting at events or functions, we have never had to be in each other’s company. Everything is changing and he is technically our neighbour now, so I will no doubt bump into him more frequently.
“I’d like that, but I’m not so sure Lucca would.” I ease my hand away and worry my fingers around in front of my mouth, the back of my hand pressed to my lips.
“Lucca and I cleared the air. He loves you, Alexis. He’s a great guy, but you know that already. He’s made himself crystal clear where we stand and asked what my intentions are. He seems satisfied that we could all have a friendship of sorts without this being too weird after I was honest with him. I think he appreciated my honesty and knows I’d never hurt you. I suppose he sees it as someone else to trust who’ll care for you, and you need a lot of caring and people to trust at a time like this.”
Optimism is in his voice if I’m not mistaken.
I’m quietly processing this. A few days ago Lucca practically threw him out of the house, and now it appears Lucca’s mellowed, succumbed, and compromised.
“Okay. I’d like us to be friends, just maybe not in public so much or the media will expose us. I don’t need to draw attention just now. I need to hide. I’m sure it’s not good for you either.” I turn around and give him an apologetic look.
“I understand. Plus, I’m not sure Shawna would appreciate pictures of me linked to someone else in the evening news. We know it’s all innocent, but she gets tired of it, understandably. You and Lucca should come over for dinner when you’re back. Seriously, I mean that, we’re neighbours after all.” He frowns at the mention of Shawna and scratches his jaw, but then finishes by smiling at me, warm-heartedly.
“Sure, I’d love to. I can meet the white fur ball.” I smile.
He laughs and shakes his head.
“Don’t tell Shawna I said that. She’ll annihilate me,” he mumbles.
“Okay deal. Since we are friends, you better have some of Rose’s chocolate brownies, come on.” I jump up, tugging at his hand, and he follows me out giving Lucca a reassuring nod.
I wasn’t aware but he was standing at the door way and probably heard the conversation or some of it. I move to allow Jackson to walk in front. Pulling Lucca back, I put my arms around his neck and kiss him with conviction against the wall.
“I love you. Thank you for being understanding.”
Moving a loose curl from my eyes he kisses my nose.
“I do not want you to have any more grief. I need people around who are willing to protect you, and I like that he is honest.”
“You have changed your tune. I must be making you softer.”
“Hmmm … That fucker better not think this is a friendship with benefits. I will castrate him if he does not keep to the rules. He touches you and the fucker loses his balls. He will never kick another ball again.”
Lucca. Still Lucca.
I shake my head but smile. “I wondered where Lucca went. It appears you’re back.”
“Baby, I never left. I just want you to be happy,” he says, smacking my bottom playfully.
Jackson, Anna, and Cameron scoff pancakes while Lucca and I speak with Rose, Peter, and Marco. Anna is being very chatty, even more so than normal. She’ll be in Heaven having a new premier league footballer friend. Cameron’s going to have his hands full with her. She’ll definitely be keeping him on his toes.
“You never read the documents Omari brought over?” Lucca adds, picking up his leather briefcase.
“No, sorry I forgot.” I purse my lips and shrug my shoulders.
“Take them with you and you can read them on the journey or when we get there. It’s important.” He slides the manila envelope into the front of my designer tote bag.
“Ready?” I have a feeling I’ve forgot something.
“Have you got everything?”
The concentration on my face is a dead giveaway. Running through everything I know we’ve packed: the photo book, the gifts, laptop and chargers. I can’t put my finger on it. Then it comes to me.
“Hold on.” I wal
k back to the study and find the rectangle parcel in the jiffy bag. The parcel is for Cathy, my granny’s friend and minister. It’s from Ms. Morrison, the minister of my local parish. I slip it in the front pouch of the case.
Jackson has just left, leaving us his private mobile number and an invitation for dinner. Cameron and Anna are staying longer to lounge by the pool, and when I overhear Marco telling Lucca he’s taking Lucy out to dinner tonight, I could dance with glee. That’s exciting I must call her and get all the details.
We stop outside my old house so I can check on Mr. Carlin. Lucca comes in with me because he won’t let me out of his sight. Doris is barking like mad in the back of Lloyd’s SUV.
Pinching my sundress off my chest, I shout, “Good God, turn that heating off!” I could faint in here with that blooming heat.
“Well, about time. I’ve waited so long this morning I’m almost another year older.” He’s sitting in his chair with his light jacket and flat cap on, holding his stick. His brown leather bowler bag is sitting at his feet.
“Going somewhere?” I ask, lifting my brow in confusion.
“Your grandparents are expecting us. Stop wasting time,” he complains.
“You’re coming?” I asked, surprised that he is.
“Oh dear Lord, please give me strength, lassie. Lucca, can you please give her a shake. You’re about as bright as blondie next door.” With my hand on my hip, I look towards Lucca for answers.
“Mr. Carlin is coming. I thought the fresh air would do him good and he would enjoy the company. Your grandpa is looking forward to it.” He nods towards an impatient Mr. Carlin.
“Oh, that’s very thoughtful,” I murmur. Not that I’m disappointed, but I get enough grief from Granny. I just hope I don’t get an earache from him too.
I switch off the heating, check his fridge and mail, then lock the doors and check he has his prescriptions before we leave.
“Which vehicle do you want to go in?” Lucca asks.