by SJD Peterson
Trevor should have known his father would find something to criticize. Instead of acknowledging his father’s praise, he started to tell his dad were he could shove his Scotch but then Charlie walked in the room.
She was dressed in a simple black dress that hugged her body like a glove. Her long dark hair flowed down her back to that perfectly sweet ass that made him want to cry mercy. His ire at his father drained away as he looked at her. She and Kegan were all that mattered, not his snobby, self-righteous parents. He stood and went to her side, placed an arm around her waist and led her into the room.
“Mom, Dad, this is Charlie McCarty. Charlie, these are my parents, Martha and Spencer Kingsington.”
Charlie reached out and shook his parents’ hands, smiling. “It’s very nice to meet both of you.”
They both gave a generic greeting as Charlie took a seat between him and Kegan and the interrogation began.
“So, young lady, what do you do here at the ranch?” his father asked.
“I’m the resident veterinarian here during the foal season.”
“You’re quite lovely for a doctor. I take it you met my son here?” his mother inquired.
“No, I actually met your son when I was out with a girlfriend of mine, and thank you for the compliment.”
“Did you know at the time you hooked up with my son that he was the owner of a successful ranch?” His father scrutinized her with wary eyes, and Trevor’s blood started a slow simmer. He didn’t want to start a battle with Charlie sitting next to him and would allow the interrogation for now, but only to a certain line. The look Kegan was throwing at him told him he didn’t share his sentiment.
“Actually, no, I didn’t realize he was the owner until I was out here immunizing his horses with my mentor, Dr. Stone.”
“And where is it your family is from? Would I have heard of any of them? I know a heart surgeon from Cambridge by the name of McCory, any relation?”
Trevor knew exactly where his father’s line of questioning was going, but Charlie seemed to be up for the challenge so he didn’t interfere, only glared at them with cold, angry eyes.
“It’s McCarty, so no, I am not related to him. I’m from a small town south of here called Prudenville. I’m sure you wouldn’t know any of my relatives.”
“Ah, I see. Judging from the way my son is glaring at me, I’m guessing he doesn’t like me asking you these questions.” Dad turned to look at him. “Trevor, I’m simply curious about the woman you have allowed into your home. Take it from me, when you come from wealth such as you do, you can never be too sure.”
Trevor tensed and felt Kegan do the same. “Who I allow in our home is none of your damn business. I don’t have to remind you that you’re a guest here and your invitation can be terminated at any time I see fit.”
“Now, now, son, I only have your interest in mind. Your mother and I want the best for you is all.”
The old anger and resentment he’d thought he’d put behind him bubbled to the surface.
Best interest, my ass. Was it in my best interest to make fucking appointments to see my own father? Was it in my best interest to spend the first eighteen years of my life being the responsibility of the nanny, butler or cook because you two were too damn busy climbing your social ladder?
Trevor bit his tongue, refusing to give his parents the satisfaction to know they could affect him in any way, good or bad.
“So, Charlie,” his father continued and brushed a piece of lint from his tailored suit. “I take it from the greeting my son gave you that you’re more than just the resident vet. What exactly is your relationship with our son?”
Charlie seemed to tense for a moment before brushing a stray piece of hair behind her ear and lifting her chin in a defiant manner. “Mr. Kingsington, I am sure you’ll understand if I decline to answer the question, since our personal relationship is simply that, personal, and something I don’t feel I have to explain.”
Trevor felt his chest swell with pride. God, he loved her.
His father’s eyes narrowed and he looked at Charlie as if she were beneath his standing. “That’s where you are wrong, young lady. I have every right to know what kind of woman is involved with my son, my sole heir. Though I must admit, I am pleased to see that he has chosen such a beauty to drape on his arm. I was beginning to wonder if he was going to spend the rest of his life with Kegan as his trophy wife.” His deep chuckle held no amusement.
Trevor wanted to scream at him to get the fuck out of their house and tell him where to shove his damn money, but Mrs. Miller entered the room before he could form the words.
“Dinner’s on the table.”
No one stood. Trevor just glared at his father, wishing like hell he could blink them gone, then take Charlie upstairs and spend a quiet evening with her and Kegan.
“Trevor, Kegan, Charlie, y’all bring your guests to the table. I won’t have you ruining my supper by allowing it to get cold.” Mrs. M stood with her hands on her hips. The way she had emphasized guests made Trevor want to kiss her. She knew who they were, and although he hadn’t told her what he truly thought of them, she had obviously guessed. She was a very observant woman.
He turned to her and gave her a genuine smile. “Yes, ma’am.” He took Charlie’s hand and headed for the dining room.
Dinner was a quiet affair. His parents seemed to recognize the barely controlled anger in Trevor and Kegan, and for once were smart enough not to ask too many personal questions. Though his father seemed to enjoy the meal, he just couldn’t help but make a comment on the inferiority of the wine. His mother, on the other hand, picked at the food, taking dainty bites occasionally, but thoroughly enjoyed the wine, glass after glass after glass.
He totally understood her need for alcohol. He’d need to drink if he lived with the bastard too. Though honestly, she deserved him. The truth was that it no longer affected him, which in and of itself was sad.
“Charlie, my dear.” His mother spoke between sips of wine. “You seem awful young for a doctor.”
“As I’ve already mentioned, I’m actually a resident working under Dr. Stone right now.”
“I see. You seem like such a sweet girl. Are you not worried about the scandal it will cause, you living here with two men like this? Surely in your profession you must worry about your social status?”
Charlie tensed and took a sip of her own wine before she responded. “I would hope that in this day and age one is judged on their performance and ability and not by living arrangements.”
“Well, young lady,” his father barged in, “you’re quite young and naïve if you don’t think that social status is important. It will determine if you have a successful practice or a common one. I’m sure given my son’s status, you would not want to hurt his reputation by acting in such a manner.”
“Dad, that’s enough.” Trevor hissed through clenched teeth. He could see Charlie considering his father’s words and the last thing he wanted was for her to have further reservations about their relationship. She turned and looked at him, doubts crowded in her eyes.
Shit!
“It’s okay. Your parents just have your best interest in mind.” She rose, wiped the corners of her mouth, then placed her napkin on the table before whispering, “If you’ll excuse me, I have had a very long day and I’m not feeling well.”
He jumped to his feet. “Charlie, wait.”
She looked at him with such hurt in her eyes he wanted to howl in rage at the way his parents looked down their noses at her. “Baby, don’t pay them any mind. Their opinions don’t matter.”
She ignored him and turned to his parents. “Mr. and Mrs. Kingsington, it was a pleasure meeting you. Now if you’ll excuse me.” She turned and fled from the dining room before he could stop her.
He looked over at Kegan. He’d hardly said two words all night, but now rose from his chair, vibrating with anger, and pointed a finger in the direction of Trevor’s parents. “Trevor, do something with them.”
He stormed out, following in the same direction Charlie had.
Trevor turned his rage on his parents. “Who the fuck do you two think you are?” he roared. “You come into my home after two years of not a single word from either of you and think you can look down your snobby noses at us?”
“Trevor, that’s about enough,” his father demanded.
He glared at him then let the years of frustration wash out of him. “No, it’s far from enough. When the two of you made the choice to let your hired help raise me, you gave up any rights to have an opinion in how I live my life. I don’t want your goddamn money and I don’t give a fuck about your reputation. I’ve made a damn fine job of making my own way in life, a good life, and couldn’t care less what the Joneses think.”
His father stiffened his spine ramrod straight and jutted out his arrogant chin. “You never did take anything seriously. How you live your life does affect me, and I’ll be damned if you’ll tarnish our good name when I’ve worked so hard to achieve the status that I have for this family. You have to realize that a girl like Charlie will only bring shame to you.”
“This family? What family?” He made a wide sweeping motion with his arms. “Look around you, do you see any family? I don’t know where you were when I was growing up, but I certainly wasn’t any more a part of your family than I am now. How dare you judge Charlie? She is the most loving, giving and unselfish person I have ever met, unlike either of you.”
“Trevor, pl—” His mom tried to speak, but he cut her off.
He pointed a finger in her direction. “You… Please, Mother, don’t even open your mouth. I might be able to understand why he did what he did when I was young. He lives by some sick macho bullshit ideals of the way a man provides for his family. But you, dammit, you were supposed to be my mother. You should have been the one that taped my skinned knees or read to me at night, but you couldn’t be bothered. You’re just as bad as he is. At least in his warped mind he thought he was providing for me.” He ignored the tears running down her cheeks. They weren’t tears for him, they were as fake as her teased and dyed hair and her high-polished French manicure. Looking at his mother, Trevor realized that it didn’t matter what they thought. They were strangers to him and they could no longer affect him.
“I’ve got a newsflash for the both of you that is sure to rock you out of your snooty, overpriced loafers. Charlie’s not the only one I’m in love with. I’m just as committed to my relationship with Kegan as I am to her and she wants us both. None of us gives a damn about your money or social standings. You can both choke on your fake fucking class. Share that with your country club friends.”
Trevor turned to leave, no longer concerned about the people sitting at his dinner table. His family waited for him upstairs.
As he walked out on their shocked looks, he tossed over his shoulder, “I’m sure even you two can find the door without butlers to give you directions.”
* * * *
Charlie rested her head against Kegan’s broad chest, let the comfort of his steady heartbeat and the caress of his fingers soothe her. She wasn’t sure why the comments made by Trevor’s parents bothered her so much. It wasn’t like they were going to be a big part of their lives. But if Trevor ever wanted to re-establish a relationship with his parents, their bond would certainly hamper that. They already thought her common and nowhere near good enough for their son. She could only imagine what they would think of her if they knew she shared her bed with both men. Would their relationship really hurt her chances to become successful in her own right?
“Hey! Don’t let what they said bother you, they’re pompous asses on a good day.”
“I’m sorry for being a coward,” she whispered into Kegan’s chest. “I can’t help but think that if they see me that way, what will other people think?”
Kegan rolled, kept her close to him with one hand. He propped his head up with the other and looked down at her. “Why do you care what other people think? Are you happy?”
“Yes, but what if my being here ruins any chance for Trevor and his parents to rebuild their relationship?”
“I never had a relationship with those people, and I don’t plan on wanting one in the future.” Trevor’s voice was tight, his anger barely under control.
She looked over her shoulder as he stretched out on the bed next to her and wrapped his body against her back.
“Yours and Kegan’s opinions are the only ones I care about.”
“But they’re your parents. I don’t want to be the cause of something bad between you and them. I saw how upset you got and I’m so sorry.”
“Babe, don’t you dare apologize. You didn’t do anything wrong. The only thing I’m upset about is the way they made you feel. There hasn’t been anything between us my whole life. I grew up with nannies, maids and butlers taking me to my T-ball games, helping me with homework.
“Hell, I remember once they took me to Disney World when I was about eight. I was so excited, thought my parents were finally going to spend some time with me, except when we got there, they bunked me in a room with my nanny and they entertained guests all week while I rode the rides and explored the parks with the staff.” He shook his head. “I was like another pawn in their power game. Look how cute and well-behaved our son is, look how well he knows his place. The thing is, Charlie, I didn’t really have a place with them. I was a commodity like the rest of their stock. If I did well, they put money into me, if I didn’t, it was time to bail. How could you think that I would worry more about their feelings than yours or Kegan’s?”
She couldn’t help but feel sorry for Trevor. Even though her parents had died when she was young, she’d had Gram, who had done everything with her. She couldn’t imagine what it would be like to live in the same house as your parents and not even know them.
“I don’t care what they think of me,” she admitted. “But they did get me thinking. I can’t help but worry about what our relationship will look like to others, how it will affect our careers and ultimately us if it’s not accepted. We can’t always live in a bubble hiding out on this ranch.”
Trevor and Kegan nuzzled her neck on either side, making it difficult to think past the warm lips and tongues against her flesh. Trevor spoke against her skin, his warm breath making her tingle.
“Fuck what other people think. As long as we’re happy, who cares?” He slid his tongue up to her earlobe, teeth teasing. “Please tell me you’re happy, Charlie,” he said as he began kissing his way down her body.
Kegan whispered in her other ear, “Mmm, I wanna make you happy right now.” His free hand ghosted across her breasts, her nipples hardening at the touch.
Trevor ran his hand up her inner thigh and groaned when he reached her moist sex. “Your body is happy, baby.”
How could she question this? They didn’t seem to worry about what others would think, why should she? They were happy, and oh God, the way they caused her body to tremble made her very happy at this moment. She still had a week to decide, she’d worry about it then.
Charlie reached up and ran her fingers through Kegan’s hair while she pushed into Trevor’s touch. She let them know with her body just how happy they made her.
She gasped as Trevor pulled aside her thong and tickled her clit with his tongue. When his tongue pushed into her, she nearly came up off the bed at the sensation rocking through her.
Kegan leaned up and, in one swift movement, removed her dress. His nimble fingers made quick work of her bra before he bent down and took a taut nub into his mouth, sucking hard. His teeth scraped against her flesh and caused tiny sparks of pain that he quickly soothed away with his tongue and lips. It was so good and yet nowhere near enough.
“Please.”
“Tell us what you need.” Kegan responded as he licked his way down her stomach, teased her navel.
“More.”
Their mouths and hands made it difficult to speak more than simple words. Her mind shut down as her body took over.
Trevor worked her thong down her legs, his mouth never leaving her. She felt them shift on the bed and looked down her body, watched as they both pulled her legs apart, their heads bent over her. Trevor licked from along her entrance while Kegan began a soft caress on her clit with the tip of his tongue.
Charlie sucked in a harsh breath. With their heads close together between her thighs and the feel of their mouths against her, she was losing control rapidly. Her orgasm had already begun to roll through her body.
“Oh, don’t stop.” Her eyes rolled back in her head. Not wanting to miss a moment, she gave herself an internal shake and looked down her body once more, captivated by the scene before her.
“Didn’t plan on it,” Kegan reassured her as he sucked her clit into his mouth at the same time as Trevor speared her hard with his tongue.
She was lost in the pleasure that ripped through her body. On and on her orgasm pulsed through her until she flopped back on the bed, panting, and tried to catch her breath.
“Again.”
She wasn’t sure who spoke in that moment, but they couldn’t be serious. “Are you—” A groan replaced her words as Kegan and Trevor both pushed a thick finger deep inside her still-convulsing sheath.
“Christ, you’re hot when you come. I can feel you grip my finger hard and pull me deeper into you,” Trevor murmured in a husky tone. He continued to work his finger in and out, exploring as Kegan’s moans vibrated against her swollen clit.
Charlie tensed when Trevor replaced his finger with his thumb and let his slick finger brush against her back entrance. She lifted her head and her breath left her in a rush at the sight of Trevor running his fingers through Kegan’s hair, pushing him harder against her as he looked down at him.
It was sexy as hell the way they touched each other to bring her more pleasure. Trevor’s eyes lifted to meet her gaze as he pushed his finger past the tight ring of muscles at her back entrance. The pleasure-pain and the needy look in Trevor’s dark eyes nearly sent her over the edge again. Slowly, he moved his finger in and out of her in tandem with his thumb, his gaze never wavering from hers. She felt her body relax, open up to him, and the slight pain interchanged with pure pleasure, the friction so perfect.