I grabbed Todd's hand as we followed her. Carrie and I really hadn't talked or even texted much recently. I assumed she was preoccupied with the pregnancy. I suddenly felt my anxiety building again; I hoped she wouldn't find something to judge about Todd.
We walked into the living room to find her and her husband on the green and white plaid couch. She was sitting with her hand on her admittedly growing belly, nursing a bottle of water.
"Merry Christmas," I said.
They turned to look at us. "Merry Christmas," they responded. At least she had a genuine smile on her face. Maybe this would go better than I thought.
Carrie started to rise up from her seat. "Honey, don't get up. They'll come to you," admonished Greg.
Seriously?
"Sure we will," I said, sweetness dripping from my voice. Every fiber of my being wanted to roll my eyes. Todd gripped me tighter; he had recognized it.
We walked to her, and I bent down awkwardly to hug her. "How are you? How's my little niece or nephew?" I asked, patting her belly. Was that what I was supposed to do?
"Oh, he or she is good. Growing everyday! But I am getting practically no sleep because I'm so uncomfortable, and my nausea still hasn't gone away. And the heartburn is nothing to joke about. And look at the size of my ankles!"
She continued on, but I effectively tuned her out while still keeping a smile on my face. Jesus, where was the booze?
Once she finally finished, I said, "This is my boyfriend, Todd. Todd, this is my sister, Carrie and her husband, Greg. And obviously, they're expecting," I smiled.
"Nice to meet you both. Congratulations," he said kindly.
We stepped over and settled down together on the opposing couch. "It's so nice to meet you, Todd! I'm just so thrilled Shannon found someone so she's not so alone out there. What do you do?" Carrie asked, brushing her hair behind her ears.
Ugh, it was already starting. But at least she seemed pleased with him.
"I work for an investment firm," he answered, crossing his ankle over his knee and swinging his arm around me.
Carrie looked at Greg. "Well that's great to hear. Shannon, you should look into internships at his firm, maybe?"
I paused only slightly, trying to process what she was saying. "You know, I'm actually good. I really like where I work now."
I felt my body stiffen. Todd's fingers started rubbing my shoulder gently.
"I know, but it's not exactly a long term thing, right?" she asked, bringing her water bottle to her lips.
I just kept repeating in my head, don't be mean to a pregnant woman, don't be mean to a pregnant woman. Surely it must be the hormones making her a passive aggressive bitch, right?
I shrugged my shoulders. "We'll see." I turned to Todd. "Would you like a drink?" My eyes were wide, trying to say, "Even if you don't want one, I want one!"
He stumbled over his words. "I, uh, sure."
"Great," I said, standing up. "The kitchen's this way." I didn't even wait for him to get up before I left the room.
He quickly caught up to me. "Baby, baby. Come on, don't let her get to you."
I stopped as he grabbed my arm, pulling me into his chest. God, that felt so nice.
"I'm sorry. She used to be somewhat critical of me before, but now it's like she's on hyper drive or something. I can't stand it," I groaned. His hands ran up and down my back. I did start to feel some of my tension leave me, just being in his arms. Just block her out and focus on him.
"Well of course she's cranky. Did you hear the list of ailments she has?"
I looked up at him, and couldn't help but laugh. "Thank you."
He bent down and kissed my forehead. "For what?"
"For being you."
"It's the least I could do," he grinned. "Now let's go get that drink. You can rub it in your sister's face."
I burst out laughing as we headed to the kitchen.
The rest of the day seemed to go smoother once more family started showing up and more drinks got in my system. I loved how well Todd got along with everyone, especially my dad. Josh had never been this at ease with my family, even after seven years. After dinner, we had split, men and women, in different rooms.
I was in the formal living room, next to my mom. We had all formed a horseshoe around the room, snacking on mini desserts and sipping wine. My mom patted my thigh; she'd had a few. "Oh honey, your Todd is so handsome."
I grinned, bringing my glass to my lips. "Yes he is, isn't he?"
My aunts and cousins all nodded and giggled.
"How did you meet?" my mom asked.
"Through friends," I replied. No further details were necessary.
"So not at a bar?" Carrie asked, sitting back in her chair, crossing her legs.
What the fuck.
"Through friends," I repeated, briefly turning my attention to her and then turning away. I couldn't even stand to look at her. Ugh, I'd had enough.
I stood up, brushing down my red knee-length dress. "Well, we have a long drive back, so we'd better get going."
I heard a collective groan from the group. My mom stood up, hugging me tightly. "Merry Christmas, my Shannon."
My heart tightened. "Merry Christmas, Mom."
We walked to the living room, and I signaled to Todd I wanted to go. He stood up, shaking everyone's hand, saying his goodbyes. I couldn't wait to get home. I had a lot of pent up aggression, and I could think of only one way to let it out.
Once we were in the car and safely down the block, I finally relaxed.
"Well that was awful," I said, rubbing the leather interior intently.
"What are you talking about? I had a good time," he responded.
I sighed. "Just my sister. She's turned into a wretched bitch. I know she's pregnant, making her hormonal, but it seemed all of her bitchiness was directed at me." That couldn't be a coincidence. What the hell had I done?
"Maybe she's just jealous because you're so skinny and she's getting fat."
I laughed. "Yes, I'm sure that's it."
Somehow he always knew what to say to lighten my mood.
He rested his hand on my thigh. I placed my hand on top of his, lacing our fingers together. "Well one day, when you're pregnant, you'll have a great excuse to be extra bitchy to her."
My heart skipped a beat. Was he talking about having kids with me? Or was he just talking about kids in general? I sat quietly, trying not to let on the thoughts I was having in my head.
"You want kids, right? Eventually?" he asked. His eyes were on the road and his voice was giving nothing away.
"Um, sure. Eventually," I responded. My cool exterior was the exact opposite of what was going on inside.
"We'd probably make some really cute blonde-haired blue-eyed babies," he said.
I thought my heart literally stopped. I shifted in my seat, unsure how to respond. I turned my head slightly to look at him, resting it in my hand with my elbow propped up on the door. "They would be pretty cute, wouldn't they."
The thought of making a baby with him had me completely turned on. Now I really couldn't wait to get home.
We finally made it back to Forrester at about ten p.m. We automatically went to Todd's apartment. It was funny how we both knew that's what we meant when we said "home." I realized I was spending less and less time in my own place.
We sat down on the couch together, looking at the tree. The white lights twinkled, highlighting the red and green ornaments.
"So, present time," he said, rubbing his hands together.
"Presents? Who said I got you a present?" I teased.
"Maybe it's the wrapped object under the tree that says 'To Todd, Love Shannon,'" he grinned as he pointed.
I snapped my fingers. "Oh you're right." I stood up, picking up the present and handing it to him. "Merry Christmas."
He grinned as he slipped his fingers under the wrapping. He peeled away the paper, revealing a bottle of Johnny Walker Blue Label.
"Wow, babe. This is great! Thank you so
much," he said, bringing me in to kiss him.
"You like?" I asked hopefully.
"Yes. I like," he grinned. "Now for you."
He stood up, and brought my present to me. It was a small long box. I anxiously tore off the paper, opening the black velvet case. Inside, was a beautiful white gold watch. It was absolutely gorgeous.
"Babe, I love it!" I exclaimed. "Thank you!"
"You're welcome," he smiled.
"I just feel bad now. You got me this beautiful watch, and I got you a bottle of booze."
He tightened his hand on my shoulder. "Hey, that's a very nice bottle of booze. And my absolute favorite. I'm impressed you remembered."
I smiled. "Ok, well good." I went to put the watch on my wrist.
"Wait, here, there's something on the back." He turned it around.
It read: 09/17: The Start of the Best Time of Our Lives.
How on earth was he this perfect?
"Babe, that is so sweet. I love it so much. I love you so much." I was so happy I was starting to feel light-headed.
"I'm glad you like it," he smiled. "Get it? Time of our lives."
I laughed. "Yes, I get it."
"I really mean that, though. I know this is just the beginning. I love you so much, Shannon."
I felt swept up in the intensity of the moment. I couldn't wait any longer to be with him. I set the watch down carefully on the table, and crawled into his lap, straddling him. I gripped his face in my hands, eagerly bringing his mouth to mine. I felt such relief when our lips met. It had been such a stressful day, but all of it was melting away just being with him. His tongue entered my mouth hungrily, dancing slowly with mine. I loved him so much. I ached to show him just how much.
My fingers moved quickly to undo the buttons on his shirt as his hands slid up the bare skin of my legs, under my dress. He started toying with the band of my thong, pulling it down as far as possible. I lifted myself up as he pulled it to my knees, then he swiftly brought his hand up between my legs. I was already more than ready but his fingers pressed against my clit, causing me to dampen even more. I moaned, grazing his ear with my teeth as he pressed and circled me. The pressure was exquisite.
He shifted his hand slightly so his thumb pressed me externally while he slipped two fingers inside. I felt my muscles clench around him. God, he felt so good. I started rocking my hips as he moved his hand, hitting my spots perfectly.
"I want to be inside you," he moaned.
"Oh, yes, me too baby," I cried. His hand was great but nothing compared to him down below.
He quickly unfastened his belt and unzipped his pants. I helped guide his underwear down his legs as he grabbed himself in his hand. Our eyes were locked as he pushed himself into my sex, slowly and steadily. How did he have so much control? I was going crazy with want. I moved my hips in a slow rhythm, savoring every sensation. He pulled my dress up over my head, revealing my black lace bra underneath. His tongue traced a hot path down my neck and over the top of my chest. He pulled the cups of the bra down, causing my breasts to fall free. His tongue rolled incessantly over the right nipple as his fingers pulled and teased the left. All I could feel was absolute pleasure all over my body, building quicker and quicker with each touch.
I gripped his hair on the back of his head, using him for leverage as I continued rocking. I wanted his mouth back on mine. I pulled his head back roughly, feeling the cool air hitting my wet nipple. He grinned as he moved back to my mouth, shoving his tongue inside, kissing me roughly. I loosened my grip on him, sliding my hands down to his broad shoulders. His hands moved slowly up my back and up to my hair, giving it a slightly painful tug. Fuck, that was hot. I moaned loudly.
"Sorry, baby. I didn't mean to hurt you."
I deepened my kiss. "You didn't. I liked it."
I could feel his mouth smile slightly as he continued kissing me, his hands still resting on the back of my head. They felt so strong and broad. He kept me guessing, would he pull it again? I wanted him to so badly.
He continued ramming himself into me, causing my cries to escalate. Each thrust felt deeper, harder than the last. My walls tightened deliciously around him, my fingers digging into his hard muscles. I had the sudden urge to taste his skin. I bent my head down, running my tongue up his neck to his ear. I heard him practically growl as I took the soft lobe between my teeth. His pace started to quicken, rubbing against me faster and harder.
"Todd, baby, I'm going to come," I cried out.
He tugged my hair back. "God, I want to feel it, baby."
My body tightened as I found my release, pleasure radiating through my entire being. I wrapped my arms around him, burying my head in his neck. I felt limp and ragged, but he wasn't finished. I tried to recover enough for him to come. I couldn't wait to make him feel as good as me. I started planting soft kisses along his neck, then started using my teeth again. His grip was permanently tight on my hair, tugging roughly as I bounced.
"You know how to fuck me, baby," I whispered, running my fingers through his hair.
With that, I felt him tighten and reach his climax beneath me. He yelled out indecipherable words as he nestled against me. I traced my fingers lightly along his skin, trying to sooth his harsh breathing.
"I love you so much," he said, still winded.
My heart tightened. "I love you," I replied.
I shifted off him, but kept my hands on his skin, not breaking our physical touch. I couldn't be without him for a second.
His hand caressed the side of my face as his lips softly met mine. "Merry Christmas, my love," he whispered.
"Merry Christmas."
Chapter 20
January
"Oh my god, that's so exciting!" I cried. "When are you moving in?"
Lacey grinned, pressing her back against the bar. "This weekend. So I guess that's tomorrow! Ah, this is so crazy."
"Moving on up, to the penthouse," I giggled.
She clasped her forehead with her hand. "I know, it's insane to think about it. I'm still not used to all the money he has."
"I think he knows you're not a gold digger. Be happy! Smile! This is exciting!" I exclaimed, grabbing her arms. I could tell she was over-thinking things. We had that in common for sure.
"I know, I know. But there's something else," she said, biting her lip.
My eyes widened. Was she pregnant?
"What is it?"
"Well now that I'm moving in with Ben, I don't need a second job anymore. So, I'm going to be quitting the bar," she said quietly. She looked up at me through her long lashes. Her eyes stayed locked with mine as I let her words sink in.
"That's a good thing," I smiled. "I know we'll still see each other tons. Our boyfriends are best friends. And we've become so close. We don't need to work together to stay friends." I felt my head spinning slightly.
"I know, but it's still going to be different. I'm going to miss you and Johnny."
"Have you told him yet?" I asked.
She nodded. "Yeah, when I came in. He had the same reaction as you. He's happy for me." Of course he was.
"See? Nothing to feel guilty about. It'll all work out. I promise."
I was definitely putting on a brave face. I really was happy for her, but sad to go through another bartender. What if the next person Johnny hired was a raging bitch? Or had zero personality?
"Hey girls, how's it going?" Johnny asked, walking out of his office.
"Good," I replied. It was the end of the night, and all the patrons had already left.
"Lacey, are you ok if I bring Shannon in back for a bit?" he asked.
"Sure," she responded. I felt slightly bad, letting her finish cleaning up by herself.
I followed Johnny back to the office. I couldn't help but feel like I was in trouble for some reason.
"Have a seat," he said. He still had his usual cheerful personality, but he seemed somewhat serious. What could he possibly tell me? I moved a stack of papers off the solitary chair. "Pardon the mes
s."
"No problem," I said, taking a seat, brushing my hands on my jeans.
He leaned up against the cluttered desk. "So, as you know, Lacey will be leaving. So we need to hire some new staff."
I frowned. "I know. It seems like it's just you and me that stick around these days," I said jokingly.
His hand moved to his chin. "Well, what you're saying is mostly true, which is why I wanted to talk to you."
I raised my eyebrows. He had piqued my interest. I was losing the "I'm in trouble" sensation.
"I want you to be in on the interviews of the bartenders. And I want you to take on a more managerial role, from here on out. We've been getting busier, and I need a full time manager. And I want that manager to be you, if you'd like that." His eyes began to twinkle.
I sat, staring blankly up at him. "Me? Why me?"
He crossed his arms in front of his chest. "Because, you're the best person for the job. You know how I run my bar. You know the customers. You're great with people," he answered simply.
I felt a smile cross my face. "Well thank you, that's an honor. I'd love it!" I exclaimed. My head was spinning with the rollercoaster of news I just received: Lacey leaving, then me becoming a manager.
"So that does mean less behind the bar work and more paperwork, is that ok?" he asked.
I thought for a second. "Does this mean my hours change at all?" I really enjoyed working with people, but the hours were starting to wear on me.
"I would imagine I'd need you here on some nights, but for the most part, you can work when you please. If that's daytime, nighttime, whatever," he replied.
I almost leapt from my seat. Maybe Todd and I could get on similar schedules. We could make dinner together, go to bed together, wake up together. The thought of it was thrilling. "Thank you, Johnny. This means the world to me." I smiled genuinely at him.
"You deserve it, Shannon. You've been a wonderful employee to me since day one."
I smiled and stood, wrapping him in my arms. "Thank you, honestly. I can't thank you enough. For everything." This man was like my own personal Santa Claus.
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