Chapter 10
James
I closed the door behind Mrs Wright and let out a brief sigh before returning to my desk. I'd been busy today and knew that I had a half an hour slot to complete some important paperwork before the mad rush started again this afternoon. I started to wade through the paperwork when my phone vibrated on my desk indicating that I'd received a message and I smiled when I saw that it was from the fiery red haired beauty.
Chanel's been assaulted, is there any chance you can take a look at her?
Amy and I were still playing a cat and mouse game but I knew if I helped her, I could use this to my advantage.
I'm busy for the next couple of hours but can come over around 4ish. Is that any good?
I didn't know why she was asking me rather than my father as I wasn't officially on the books yet, she'd also called me the other day to take a look at Tommy and Louise. I was hoping it was because she wanted to see me but I never knew with Amy because she sometimes blew hot and cold, and used humour as a decoy. I was surprised when my phone vibrated again as it hadn't taken her long to respond.
That would be lovely thank you. She'll be at Elite hair and beauty on Epping high street.
I knew full well where Chanel worked, in fact I'd done my homework on all of the club members. The whole biker thing had piqued my interest as a child and I remember spending many evenings sitting at the top of the stairs as my father told my mother about his day and what the club had been up to. I now knew that he'd get in serious trouble for discussing club business but at the time I found it intriguing which later sparked my enthusiasm for motorcycles although I preferred superbikes to Harleys.
I had paid a private investigator to do some research and to find out more about Amy, I know I shouldn't have but I wanted to find out how involved she was in the club. I liked her, really liked her and was hoping that our friendship may develop into something more but I needed to know what I was getting into. To my surprise, it was revealed that Amy was loyal, caring but also a force to be reckoned with. She worked voluntary in the local women's refuge and managed a very successful business. She was still associated with the club but only because of her family and the check had also revealed that there was an ex boyfriend, who was currently serving at her majesties pleasure. Blake Washington or Recon to the club was a womanising prick, who'd left Amy in her hour of need. I'd studied his profile in detail and was well aware that he was out soon and would possibly try to make contact with her, I just needed to be there if he did and be that support or even distraction she'd possibly need.
I was also made aware of her medical records and knew the extent of the damage she'd received when she was viciously attacked five years ago, although I knew she'd kept it a secret from the club. This just confirmed what type of a person she was because she knew that the club would wage war on the Dyers more than they already had.
I responded to her last text.
Yeah I know where she works. If I help you out though I want you to cook me a meal as a thank you and an apology for the other night
After catching her in bed with Duke, things had been a little difficult and I was surprised that she hadn't come after me to explain but I'd since come to understand that Amy was very stubborn. In fact, Amy was independent, strong minded, confident and liked to have everything her own way. I sniggered at the thought because I too liked my own way and I was hoping that she'd let me show her just how fun that could be.
Picking up my phone, I called through to reception. "Hi Bonny, I haven't got another patient until half past but if they arrive early can you please send them through. I need to leave by 3.30pm so is there's any chance could you juggle the appointments with the other GP's?"
"Of course I can Mr Hudson." Bonny said in her usual authoritative tone.
"You are a super star and Bonny, it's James not Mr Hudson, that's my father." I sniggered, she'd worked for me for the past year and had improved the efficiency of the practice within that time. I'd tried over the past year to get her to call me by my Christian name but she was a professional and had struggled with the familiarity of it all.
"Okay Mr...James." I heard her snigger uncomfortably before hanging up the phone.
I turned my attention to my computer to bring up the next patients file as I heard a quiet tap on the door.
"Come in," I shouted hoping that I could get through as many patients as possible before I had to leave to tend to Chanel.
Walking into the salon, I immediately saw the explosion of colour and smelt the calming aroma of lavender. I knew that the salon hadn't been open for long but Taylor had done a good job with this place and from what I'd heard through the grapevine, business was doing well.
I walked further into the reception area and noticed a tall blonde dressed in black, and made my way towards her. “Hi, I’m James,” I stated holding out my hand for her to shake.
She turned and flicked her hair over her shoulder as she assessed me quickly, “Thank you for coming James, I really appreciate you giving up your time.” Taylor took my hand and shook it firmly.
“Not a problem. I'm not officially working for the club yet but Amy has some making up to do, and has promised to cook me dinner if I help you out.” I winked at her cheekily and she sniggered at my comment before turning and heading to the back of the salon. Taylor opened the door and a young girl looked up with a bright smile.
“Chanel this is James, he’s gonna take a look at you to make sure you’re okay.” I noticed her demeanour change and the smile disappear as she stood placing her hands on her hips in a defensive stance.
“Taylor, I told you I’m okay. I just have a…Aaaah!” Chanel stumbled back slightly holding her head with her left hand and she closed her eyes from the pain.
“Please sit down and let me take a look at you.” I placed my bag gently on the floor before bending down in front of Chanel to examine her face. I pressed gently around her eye socket and held firm as she winced and when satisfied with my findings I moved towards her lip, to assess the extent of the damage.
I wasn't happy with the way it was healing and let out a sigh of frustration. “You should’ve had a stitch in this,” I said more to myself then to Chanel. “I’m going to give you some pain relief which you must take every four hours.” I rummaged into my bag and brought out two blister packets containing the tablets. They were stronger than over the counter drugs so they'd get into her system quicker and ease her discomfort. “You should really be at home resting,” I stated getting up from the floor. “Can she leave work early?” I asked turning my attention to Taylor.
“We need to get Chanel's stuff from her house tonight first and then she can have as much time off as she needs.” Taylor responded looking a little sheepish that Chanel was here but I understood that they needed to keep her safe.
I nodded, “If her condition worsens, please let me know and I’ll come over.” There was nothing more I could do, Chanel needed to rest and the TLC that she was getting from Taylor would also speed the recovery. I packed away my equipment and smiled briefly at Chanel before leaving the room to wash my hands using one of the salon sinks.
“Thank you again James, I really appreciate you coming to see her.” Taylor said holding out her hand for me to shake.
I took her hand politely, “Not a problem.” I stated before strolling from the salon. I had met a number of club members now but I found it more interesting meeting the associates and women that were romantically involved because that's where I got to see the real people behind the scenes and the way the club affected people's lives.
I stood on the pavement directly outside the salon and took in my surroundings. I wanted to speak to Amy but knew that she'd be busy with the early evening rush so decided to send her a quick text.
I understand that you're still staying at Spikes, I'll pop over a 7.30 for that meal you promised.
I pressed send and placed the phone back into my pocket knowing that it wouldn't be long until I received
an irate text from Amy, reprimanding me. The thought made me snigger as I strolled towards my car that was parked about 50 yards down the street. I slipped into the driver's seat and stuck the keys into the ignition when my phone vibrated indicating that I'd received a text and I knew who it was from without even looking. I pulled the phone from my pocket and swiped the screen to read the text.
I believe that I agreed to cooking you a meal but I didn't state where or when. I may be busy this evening.
I smiled at her response, Amy had taken the bite like I hoped she would. She said that she may be busy so obviously she wasn't and I knew I had to push it a little further to see if she'd fold.
Indeed you are correct but I would like you to cook for me this evening
I'd read her profile and spent some time with her but I really wasn't sure how she'd respond to my domineering ways albeit playful at the moment.
As you are aware, I'm an Aries and therefore like to get my own way!
I liked playful Amy! I read the message a couple of times before I responded. She could've almost put a but at the end of her text and I knew that she was up for meeting this evening.
And as a Leo I'm very competitive and will enjoy the challenge .
I sat in the car holding my phone waiting for a response that I knew would come.
I've just googled the traits of a Leo. Proud, determined, loyal, generous, ambitious, fearless, creative, confident, seductive, enthusiastic and headstrong. Quite a list and many things to be proud of but these worried me; vain, bossy, stubborn, intolerant, self-centered, quick-tempered and pretentious! Care to explain?
I'd intrigued her that much, that she'd googled Leo traits so she could continue the banter.
I could but it's very difficult to discuss via text. It's better if I show you this evening.
We could go around in circles all afternoon, I needed her to agree.
But I haven't agreed to it?
Bloody woman, was this her attempt to play hard to get?
I don't know what we're eating so shall I bring white or red wine?
One last ditch attempt to get a date with her this evening.
Well if you're feeling 'generous' you could always bring both!
Good girl and a little play on one of my many characteristics. I typed a quick response and placed my phone back into my pocket before pulling into the early evening traffic. If I was planning on seeing Amy this evening there were a few things I needed to take care of beforehand as I didn't want to be disturbed this time.
The next couple of hours flew by and here I was standing eagerly on her doorstep waiting for Amy to greet me. I retrieved my phone remembering that I hadn't read Amy's last text from earlier.
How did you do that? I was determined to say no but you talked me around!
I sniggered at her response and placed my mobile back into my pocket as she opened the door.
"Are you smiling to yourself James?" she asked stepping aside and gesturing for me to enter Spike's flat.
"First sign of madness or is that talking to yourself, either way I do both." I stooped slightly to place a kiss on her cheek and breathed in her scent, "You smell and look radiant." I stated quietly brushing my cheek against hers ever so slightly and visibly noticed her shiver at the contact. As I pulled away her eyes widened and I smiled knowing that I could affect her, this evening could be a lot of fun.
I entered Spike's flat and smelt the aroma of dinner cooking and my stomach rumbled loudly.
"I'll take that as a good sign." Amy stated as she passed me walking towards the kitchen.
"I'm ravenous," I rubbed my stomach animatedly making her giggle.
"Well I should hope so after demanding that I cook for you."
I sniggered, "That wasn't even close to demanding but I can be if you want me to?" Amy whipped her head around quickly to look in my direction and I saw a flash of excitement or even playfulness on her face as I gave her a cocky grin.
She stood still assessing me and I noticed her breathing become shallow as she branched her arms wide to hold on to the kitchen worktop.
"Amy!" I said but she was looking straight through me as if in a daydream, "Amy!"
She shook her head slightly, pulling herself from her trance. "Yeah?"
"The saucepan is spilling!" I stated nodding in the direction of the hob.
She turned quickly, "Shit!" she berated under her breath as she grabbed a cloth and wiped some of the spillage before walking over to the sink to rinse it under the cold water. "Make yourself useful and pour the wine." She stated over her shoulder as she walked back to the hob to clear up the remainder of the mess left from the spillage.
"What we having?" I asked intrigued.
"Surf and turf." Amy said quietly over her shoulder. "Filet mignon and sea scallops. How do you like your steak cooked?"
"Sounds and smells delicious, Medium rare please." I took the two bottles of wine from the carrier bag and placed them onto the kitchen counter before turning my attention back to the kitchen to work out where Amy would keep the corkscrew. The most obvious place would be the drawers next to the oven, I casually made my way across the kitchen to manoeuvre myself behind Amy as I lightly placed a hand onto her hip and pressed myself against her as I leaned towards the drawer. She stopped stirring the sauce and pushed back slightly as I tightened my grip on her hip and lifted her head so it was resting on my chest. I scrambled around in the drawer and found what I was looking for and stooped close to Amy's ear, "You better keep stirring that sauce otherwise it'll be lumpy." I patted her on the arse and a slight blush covered her cheeks as she returned her attention back to the saucepan.
I moved to the other side of the kitchen and turned my back to Amy letting out a quiet sigh as I quickly adjusted my cock. The chemistry between us was electric and it was only a matter of time before we came together and I was only hoping that she'd be amendable to my desires. I opened the bottle of red using the corkscrew and left it on the worktop to breath. "Do you need a hand with anything?" I asked.
Amy shook her head, "Everything's under control thank you but you can take our drinks through to the living room."
I grabbed the bottle of wine and our two empty glasses and took them through into the living room to place them on the beautifully laid table. I hadn't seen it when I entered the flat earlier and on closer inspection I was surprised by the feminine touches of the room as I wasn't aware that Spike had an old lady.
"Take a seat," I turned to see Amy walking into the living room with two plates of food.
"Are you being bossy?" I asked walking over to the table in the corner of the room.
"Yes," she said with a smile as she sat opposite me.
I breathed in the aroma, "This really looks good Ames." I leaned over to take the bottle of wine and proceeded in pouring two glasses. Amy quickly picked up her glass and held it towards me, I furrowed my brows and did the same, "What are we drinking to?" I asked intrigued.
"Good food and equally good company." She stated chinking her glass lightly against mine.
I nodded my head, I'd most certainly drink to that.
"So how's business doing?" I asked genuinely interested. From what I'd seen and found out she was running a thriving business.
Amy stopped eating and looked a little perplexed at first before she shook the look from her beautiful face. "Business is going well thank you, I've branched out to outside catering which was a gamble as we put a lot of money into it but we're now reaping the rewards."
"That's one thing I admire about you." She stopped eating again to look at me expectantly so I thought I should explain further, "Your work ethic." Amy nodded her head satisfied with my explanation and continued to eat. "As far as I know you work at the cafe, most days on your own, you also volunteer at the refuge and you help out the club. That's commendable Ames, you should be proud of yourself." I placed my knife and fork onto my plate and picked up my glass to take a sip assessing Amy's expression and the slight blush to her cheeks
. "Sorry Ames, I didn't mean to embarrass you, I was just telling it how it is." I placed my glass on the table and sat back in my chair to really take in her demeanour as she shuffled uncomfortably.
"Thank you, I didn't realise you were observing quite so closely but I do all of those things because I want to, not because I have to."
"I wasn't implying that you did."
"I know that but I just wanted to explain a little more. I went off the rails a few years ago, drinking heavily not respecting myself or others, but for the first time in forever I feel that I have a purpose. I know I work hard and a lot of hours but what's the alternative. Sitting idle watching the world pass me by?" Amy scrunched her nose, "That's just not me, I like to keep busy."
"So what does Amy do for down time?" I asked sitting forward in my chair to take my knife and fork from my plate to start eating again."
"I don't have much time but when I do, I enjoy reading and spending time with my family and friends." She glanced in my direction, "Is that sad?"
I shook my head, "Not at all babe, it just confirms what sort of person you are."
"And that is?"
"A typical bloody Aries." Amy snorted with laughter and I looked at her in astonishment as she flapped around trying not to spit out her wine. She eventually calmed and swallowed her mouthful much to my delight as I didn't want to be wearing the contents of her mouth.
"I'm so sorry that really tickled me," she stated placing her hand on her chest as her breathing slowed to its normal pace.
"Obviously but now I'm wondering what else gets you excited?"
Her eyes widened from my comment, "Are you flirting with me James?" she asked as a smile crossed her face.
"Most certainly but I would like to take you into your bedroom and ravish you for the rest of the evening."
Her smile quickly disappeared as she contemplated what I'd just said but I didn't have any worries that she wouldn't be interested, as she wouldn't have invited me over this evening if she did. I pushed my chair back and stood to make my way around the table to stand directly beside her. I extended my arm and held my palm flat in front of her, Amy looked at me unsure by my actions but placed her hand in mine. I pulled her gently to her feet and her body fell naturally against my chest. I wrapped one hand around her neck and pulled her head towards me so that I could claim her mouth as my other hand held firm at the bottom of her spine.
Amy (Aces MC Series Book 3.5) Page 12