by Renea Porter
“Thank you.”
I couldn’t fall for him. This was only a temporary situation. I had to accept that fate. We weren’t meant to be. Because if I admitted it out loud, and to him, I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to leave. And I had no choice in the matter. He could convince me to stay, to throw everything I’d worked for down the drain, and I’d probably do it. For him. He had such an impact on me. It was maddening that someone could have so much power that I’d drop everything for him. For us. For this. Whatever this was.
I had to leave in the morning. Our ten day love affair was over. No more Murphy and August. And my Dad could kiss my ass. I was furious for the way he handled the situation. Didn’t he trust me? Obviously not.
“Want to go back to bed?” August asked.
I nodded. “I don’t want to waste another minute with you. Sleep can wait.”
He turned onto his side, reaching over; he tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. “You’re the most beautiful girl I’ve ever laid eyes on, Murph. I can’t believe it’s almost over.”
Words choked me. “I don’t want to talk about leaving, okay? Let’s just be in the moment. I can face reality tomorrow. Until then…”
His lips crashed with mine before I could finish the sentence. I didn’t mind such a distraction from reality. In that moment, he was my reality. All I wanted to do was drown myself in him.
“How am I ever going to let you go?” he whispered, his hot breath brushing against my ear.
Yes I was head over heels for this guy.
“Don’t. At least not today.”
He pulled me closer, my body flush against his. I could feel his hardness pressing into my stomach.
“I need you, August.”
He nibbled on my lip, pulling it in between his teeth. “Say it again.”
I tilted my neck. “I need you, August.”
“Fuck. You’re going to be the death of me. You know that.” He stood, offering his hand. I took it as he helped me up. The sheet was tucked tightly around my body as we walked back into the house.
Walking down to the second floor, August pulled me into his room. His lips on mine, the sheet disappeared onto the floor, his fingers wrapping into my hair. There was a hunger in his touch, and in the way he was kissing me. It was different from the first time we were together. It was more primal. A searing desire shot through my body, craving his touch on my skin, claiming me as his. Deep inside, I knew I would always be his whether we had one day or fifty.
We moved to the bed, where he towered over me, his dark gaze filled with lust and desire. A look I’d seen before. “Make love to me, August. Make me forget that I’m leaving tomorrow.”
He smirked. “You’ll be walking into school funny.”
Our lips clashed again, and I got lost in him. He electrified me like no other, and I wanted to savor every kiss and every touch. His skin on mine. Not even an inch separating us. For the rest of the day, we hardly left the room.
Chapter Ten
DAY TEN
Waking up, I turned to find August sound asleep. I contemplated on waking him up, but I didn’t want to say goodbye. I was afraid to, even knowing our time together was short. I accepted that and I didn’t regret a single second.
Quietly, I stood from the bed, careful not to disturb him. I’d made my decision. I wouldn’t say goodbye. Tears fought to escape, but I blinked them back. Picking up some clothes, I threw them on and tied my hair back. Moving quietly around the room, I gathered everything that was scattered, shoving them in my other bag.
This was it. I was leaving. Most likely, I wouldn’t be back. Turning back, I gave August one last look before leaving.
Goodbye, August.
I walked down the stairs, feeling a mix of emotions. Pulling out my phone, I called a taxi to come get me. I had my own credit card that my Dad got me, and some money put away from odd jobs I did the last few years. August’s mom wasn’t even up yet. The sun was just rising, and I had an overwhelming urge to run up the stairs, but I resisted. Now the taxi was on its way. I sat on the porch steps as I waited. Tears fell. What did I set myself up for? Heartbreak.
The taxi pulled up, and I slid into the back seat. “To the airport, please.”
School was four hours away, driving distance, so I decided to catch a flight, making my trip a mere hour and a half. The taxi started to pull away, and something caused me to look back.
August was standing there bare chested in a pair of jeans that resided low on his hips. His hair haphazardly messy, and defeat written all over his face.
“Stop! Leave it running,” I told the taxi driver.
Pushing the door open, I ran to August, tears streaming down my cheeks, and my heart beating so fast I thought it would explode.
He caught me in his arms, wrapping them around me tightly. “How could you leave without saying goodbye?”
Our lips crashed. And then I pulled away. “Because I’ve fallen in love with you, August. Now I’m leaving. I said I could just walk away after ten days, but it’s killing me inside.”
“Jesus, Murphy. I’ve fallen for you, too. Let’s keep in contact, and we’ll figure it out.” He brushed a loose strand of hair back and kissed me again. “Go, before you miss your flight.”
I backed away slowly, our eyes staying connected. Once I reached the taxi, I turned and got back in. I never looked back. But a smile crept up on my face. He wanted to stay in touch. My phone buzzed.
Be great. I miss you already. You took my heart.
I typed back, I miss you, too. You have it backward; you stole my heart on the first day.
He didn’t say anything back. Ten minutes later, the taxi was pulling into the airport. I paid him and got out. Approaching the airline counter, I bought a one-way ticket to the city. I pondered everything. So much happened over the last ten days. I thought about the way he kissed me, the way he held me, and the way he was with me.
***
It had been two days since I last saw August. Adjusting to my new life wasn’t too difficult. Paying attention to everything the doctor said was. August still consumed my thoughts. I ached for him. Was that even possible?
“Did you hear what I said, Murphy?” Dr. Carmichael asked.
“I’m sorry. Can you repeat what you said?”
“If you’re going to intern, we need your full, undivided attention. You’re only here a week, and we are cramming a lot in that time.”
“I’m sorry.”
My cheeks heated at the embarrassment. I had to focus. I listened to Dr. Carmichael as he spoke. Looking like a flake was not my forte. Thinking about a boy twenty four seven was still new for me. Being without him would take some getting used to. I had to get my head in the game. Thankfully, the internship was only for a week. It was just so I could shadow him and get some feedback. I’d be able to watch surgeries, sit in on consults and check on the patients. It was a lot for a week.
With my notebook out, I took notes while the doctor spoke. I devoured his knowledge. Whenever he wasn’t mentoring, he was teaching a class of residents, soon to be doctors. I hoped, one day, to be like him.
The internship was in the same area as the college I’d be attending.
Chapter Eleven
A WEEK LATER
The internship turned out to be useful. I made some friends, and hoped I could make a name for myself with the doctor’s wisdom. Dr. Carmichael said I was a good student, and that he saw a lot of potential in me. He also said I was smarter than a lot of his students, and suggested I take the accelerated program. I was thrilled to be accepted into such a prestigious program. Only a select few got that kind of offer. With Dr. Carmichael as my mentor, I was even more excited since I knew going into neuro science was something I’d be passionate about.
My mom was thrilled at the news. I hadn’t spoken to my dad, but I was sure he was happy, too. My hard work was paying off.
***
Six weeks into the accelerated program, I was still missing August. We’
d texted a few times, but my schedule had been grueling to say the least. The homework was a whole other thing. And with the class schedule, I barely had time to breathe, let alone eat and sleep.
My roommate, Gwen, and I got along great. We were already practically best friends, and in the same program. Only twenty students were accepted in the program which I liked, because things were a lot more personal. The teachers were more attentive and focused on the coursework they were teaching. It was a completely new environment for me, but I was getting used to it.
And, of course, Gwen knew all about August. Some days, the hours flew by, and I knew I was a step closer to seeing him.
My family decided to sell their main house in the city, and retired to the summer house full time. That house was smaller and easier to maintain for my mom. Plus, that house was close to August. They had no clue I was still seeing him. Dad disapproved, so there was no use in saying otherwise. He had no valid reasons not to like me dating August. I worked my tail off and did everything by the book, and his way. Now it was time to live the life I wanted to live. With or without his approval.
August and I talked every Friday and Sunday night. It was our ritual, even if it was only for five minutes. It was nice talking to him, and I always looked forward to it. However, one time, while I was studying, I decided to call him and he didn’t pick up which I thought was odd, but shoved that thought out of my mind. It was Labor Day weekend, and I hadn’t thought about making any plans with him. We agreed on Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks for sure, though.
Gwen was studying on her bed, deep in thought, when I looked over to her. “Did I tell you that you remind me of Gwen Stefani?”
She laughed, shaking her head. “Didn’t I tell you she’s my idol?”
We both laughed. She had almost stark white hair, and always had her lips painted a tint of red. She had so many variations of red lipstick, it was disturbing. Her hair reached the top of her shoulders, and her eyes were green. She was gorgeous, especially next to plain ole me. It was no wonder we got looks while walking through the halls.
We went back to studying when a knock brought me out of my thoughts. Books were splayed all over my bed as I maneuvered my way to the door. Opening the door, I was shocked.
“I’m sorry I came unannounced. I just…missed you, and I had this urge just to drive up and see you for the weekend.”
I was speechless. My mouth fell to the floor. Opening the door wider, he stepped inside. Gwen stood from her bed and extended her hand. “I’m Gwen.”
He shook her hand. “August.”
“Should I make myself scarce?” Gwen asked. “I can go study in the library if you want privacy.” She winked at me.
“No. I’m actually here to whisk her away for the weekend. I mean, if you don’t have anything else planned.” He smiled.
I smiled back. “I don’t have anything planned.”
“Well, pack a bag or not. Clothes are optional.”
Gwen giggled, and I blushed about twenty shades of pink.
“Well, a girl should always be prepared.” I grabbed a bag and stuffed some clothes inside. I had no idea what he had in store. “So where are we going?” My hand laced with his as we walked out to his car.
“For starters, we’re going to spend the night at a hotel.”
I halted. “August, you shouldn’t have.” I knew money was always tight while he and his mom just got by.
He tugged on my hand and we continued to walk. “My mom worked some extra shifts at the diner, shoved the money in my hand, and told me to stop moping and to come see you. She knew how miserable I was without you.”
When we reached the car, I stopped and hugged him tight. “I wouldn’t have minded coming to see you.”
“You off school on Monday?”
“Yep. Thank goodness.”
“Good. We’ll drive to my place tomorrow.” He leaned over and kissed me before I got in the passenger seat. Sliding behind the wheel, he reached for my hand and held it, bringing my hand up and kissing my fingers. “I missed you.”
“I missed you, too.”
August started the car and pulled out onto the main road. “I’ll have to tell your mom she’s awesome.”
“She’ll be glad to see you.”
Five minutes later, we were outside of my college town and pulling into a hotel. My stomach was full of nerves. Exiting the car, we walked through the glass doors of the hotel. August pulled the key card out of his pocket as we stepped onto the elevator. He must have pre-planned this. My bag was latched over my shoulder, and I casually pulled my hair out of the ponytail. He always liked my hair flowing down my shoulders.
Moments later, we found the room and he slid the key card in. He held the door while I entered first. The room was decorated in white and black. It was classy and understated. The door shut behind us. My body pressed against the door, and the bag I held landed on the carpet with a ‘thump’. August leaned into me, with a crooked smile and eyes devouring me in one swift glance.
My arms went around his shoulders as he continued kissing me. My body was reacting of its own accord, until he pulled away, pressing his forehead to mine. “We should eat first.” He went and picked up a menu as he sat on the edge of the bed. “Order whatever you like.”
I looked it over, settling on a hamburger and fries. “I’ve never had room service before,” I admitted. Handing the menu back to him, he called room service and put our order in.
We lounged on the bed, making out.
“I just can’t keep my hands off you,” he admitted before answering the knock on the door. A gentleman rolled in a cart with silver, dome covered dishes. Thanking him, he retreated and left.
Being with August, alone together, and eating my favorite meal…I was in heaven. I was happy for the long extended weekend. My parents thought I was staying at the dorm to study. That was the truth until August showed up at my door.
Taking the food, I sat cross legged on the bed. Dipping a fry into my ketchup, I smiled. I knew I’d be smiling a lot, because August always made me smile. Just being in his presence was serene. He had that way about him that made the rest of the world fall away, like we were the only two that existed. Nothing else mattered. Sometimes I felt like I could take on the world as long as we had each other.
“I’m so glad you came and rescued me.” I leaned my head on his shoulder.
“You’ve been working your ass off. You needed a break. And I needed to see you.” He took another bite of his burger. “So that’s what I call a win-win in my book.”
Once we were finished we loaded the plates back onto the cart, and August tackled me. “Now where were we?” His eyes filled with so much intensity that I couldn’t look away. His lips captured mine and I was done. With a hand inching underneath my shirt, my breath hitched at the sensation of him touching my bare skin.
Sometimes, I forgot that he was such a man. The six year age difference didn’t matter to me, though. The college guys had nothing on him. August might not have been the richest guy, but he knew how to treat a woman.
Inching my shirt higher, my skin was exposed as he reached for my bra. Feeling his lips on my neck sent shivers down my spine. He cupped my breasts over my bra. My legs shifted apart, offering him a more comfortable position. Slowly, he tortured me into a blissful state. I was in heaven.
Since I wasn’t experienced in the sex department, I let him lead. He was cherishing me by taking it slow, so I was comfortable.
My shirt rose above my head. “So perfect,” August breathed.
Reaching around, he unhooked my bra, flinging it on the floor. Bending down, he took a nipple in his mouth, flicking his tongue over it. The sensation caused me to bite down on my lower lip. Then he moved, doing the same to my other breast. He moved down, planting kisses down my stomach. My back automatically arched, and I made a fist into the sheets. Desire was searing through my body.
“August,” I panted.
“Yes, angel?”
“I need you so bad.” My body squirmed under him.
Chapter Twelve
“So you just came to get some nookie?” I asked, curled into him.
“Didn’t you hear me? I missed you. I was going fucking crazy. I was just seizing an opportunity to see you. Okay?”
“Okay.”
He tilted my chin up and we kissed.
“Want to watch a movie or something?” I asked.
“Sure. I’m just going to shower quickly. Go ahead and pick something out.”
“Okay.”
Being with August made me feel centered. He made me feel special. Maybe that had something to do with him being older. He knew how to treat a woman.
Emerging from the bathroom, he wore a pair of clean boxer briefs and nothing else. He was so dreamy with his dark hair, facial hair, and his six foot three frame towered my five foot five frame. I loved feeling the roughness of his skin against mine. His taunt muscles were impossible to miss. He was a work of art.
Sliding in bed next to me, he rested his head against the headboard, turning to give me a wide smile. “So what did you pick?”
“I don’t really know. Some Adam Sandler movie.”
“Great. He’s my favorite actor.”
***
I woke up to light kisses being planted on my cheek. Opening my eye,s I saw August and smiled.
“Wake up, sleepyhead; we have a long day ahead. We need to feed that flat belly of yours.”
Stretching my body, I turned to see the clock read eight a.m.
“I had some muffins brought up,” he tempted. “They’re your favorite.”
I sat up and reached for a banana nut muffin and a glass of orange juice. Banana nut was my absolute favorite. Blueberry came in a close second.
“I figured that would get you up.”
Indulging in the huge muffin, I grinned. “Do I have enough time to shower before we leave?”
“Of course. I can get our stuff together so we can get on the road.”