by S. E. Law
How does he make things sound so nice when we’re in the middle of a crisis? But evidently, it works somewhat because my mom pats her eyes and sniffles a bit.
“You’re in love?” she asks. “How did you even meet? I didn’t know you knew each other.”
My mind whirls in a frenzy and I say the first thing that pops into my head.
“Well, you’ve worked at Le Palms for a long time, and I knew the job was getting to you. So I submitted a job application on the sly a year ago, and they brought me in for an interview. I didn’t get the job, but during that time, I met Mr. Savage and we fell in love.”
My mom blinks at me, confused.
“But Maddy, I thought we talked about this. I don’t want you to have a job, I want you to focus on schoolwork. You’re going to college, remember? Even if I have to work my fingers to the bone, I want a better life for my daughter.”
I nod furiously.
“Yes, of course Mom. I know that, but I just couldn’t bear to see you so tired after every shift. I figured I’d get a part-time job, no more than ten hours a week, and the extra cash could help for things like utilities and car insurance.”
Grace is still confused and not buying it.
“But Madeline, what job did you apply for? You’re only eighteen. What would you be qualified to do?”
I’m not sure what to say because she’s right. I don’t have many practical skills, and frankly, I’ve never been great with computers or math either. What could I do?
Cameron steps in for the save again.
“She applied to be an executive assistant,” he says in a low, smooth voice. “My executive assistant, to be precise.”
Oh, of course. That makes sense, and it would also explain how we met.
“Um, yes, I was going to be his secretary,” I say hurriedly. “Or maybe an assistant secretary because Cameron already has two secretaries who work for him.”
He nods and my mother looks between us, still a little suspicious. However, the assistant secretary story sounds believable because even with my lack of skill, I could arguably be trained up for the administrative role. Not just that, but I didn’t ultimately get the job anyways, so that explains my current lack of skill.
“Okay,” she says slowly. “But before we talk about this more, put on some clothes, Maddy. I still can’t believe I caught my own daughter doing … that!”
I shoot a look at Cameron, and then scramble to my feet and throw on my sweater and jeans. In minutes, I’m clothed again, although still bedraggled with my hair a rat’s nest and my face flushed.
“I’m sorry you had to catch us in flagrante like you mentioned, Mrs. Mitchell,” Cameron says courteously. “But we weren’t expecting any visitors this late at night. Or should I say, this early in the morning? It’s five a.m. right now.”
I turn slowly to look at my mom while reaching for my bag.
“Yes, Mom. What are you doing here? It’s so early, and when I left the apartment, you were sound asleep.”
My mother has the grace to look ashamed.
“I woke up after a little while, and you weren’t there, Maddy. I figured you’d gone to bed and I know the casino is open 24/7, so I decided to come by.”
I stare at her, Cameron’s big bulk at my side.
“But to do what? Were you going to gamble? Grab a drink? It’s a little early for alcohol, isn’t it?”
My mom shakes her head, biting her lip while looking nervous.
“No, I was coming by Mr. Savage’s office to ask for another chance at being a showgirl,” she admits in a low tone. Tears spring to her eyes. “Mr. Savage, my daughter and I don’t need much. I just need some job so that Maddy can go to college, but it doesn’t have to be high-paying. I know Le Palms was very kind and generous to offer me that position in Laundry –”
My lover cuts my mom off with a chop in the air of his hand.
“That’s not necessary, Mrs. Mitchell. Madeline and I were just talking, and we’d like to send you to a local community college for some re-training courses. Your daughter mentioned that you might enjoy taking computer classes, or perhaps some accounting. She stated that you’re a natural learner, and that you just need the right opportunity.”
My mom stares, flabbergasted, at Cameron.
“I’m sorry? Job re-training?”
My lover nods.
“It’s very common these days, and you’ve been a loyal employee of Le Palms for ten years now. We want to help you get on your feet, and part of that is directed skills growth as well as some career counseling as needed. Maddy mentioned that you’re very interested in learning, and maybe taking this time to transition and gain skills could be very beneficial.”
I stare at the handsome man. He is well-spoken, that’s for sure. Not only that, but he’s sexy because he’s clearly incredibly intelligent, as well as gracious. He doesn’t have to be nice to my mom, but instead, he’s rolling out the red carpet.
“Well, I’m not sure what to think,” my mother says, picking herself up from the ground and smoothing down her coat. “I’ve had my eye on a few courses at Palm Springs Community College for years now, but I never thought I’d get the chance.”
“This is your chance,” I say with a teary smile. “Mom, take the opportunity. Cameron was just saying that he’s going to pay for the credits, and also that he’d provide a generous stipend while you’re in school. Isn’t that right, Cameron? It’s what you do for all loyal employees.”
He shoots me a look but then smiles graciously.
“Of course. Le Palms will be happy to accommodate you Mrs. Mitchell. For as long as you like.”
That takes me by surprise. I thought Grace was only going to have six weeks to figure out a new direction for her career, but maybe he’s having second thoughts. Maybe the gorgeous CEO wants to do right, and he’s going to provide support for a little while longer.
“Well, I’m not sure what to say,” Grace says hesitantly. “Thank you?”
My lover merely bows his dark head.
“You’re very welcome. It’s the least I can do. But one more thing.”
“Yes?” my mom asks, reaching for her purse.
Cameron looks at both of us thoughtfully.
“Seeing that the cat’s been let out of the bag, I wanted to let you know that your daughter and I are an item now, and have been for a while. As a result, I’d like Maddy to move in with me. She mentioned that she enjoys living with you, but I’d like to provide her with a little more. Here, at Le Palms, she’ll have access to the best of everything: nutritious meals, as well as a quiet place to study in the hotel library. We also have personal trainers, and of course, the full suite of spa services. I’d like your daughter to move in with me, Mrs. Mitchell. With your permission of course.”
I turn to look at Cameron, my mouth hanging open slightly. Is he serious? I guess so, seeing that determined expression on his face. It makes sense, in a way. I hadn’t thought through the details of our deal, but I figured I’d go to school, go home, and then come over late at night for fun and games in bed. Then I’d sneak back to my house at the break of day.
This makes that all unnecessary, however. If I move into Le Palms, then I’ll be at Cameron’s disposal 24/7, ready for long days and nights of hot loving. Is that what he wants? My heart pounds in anticipation because even though it’s only a temporary thing, I can’t wait. It will be exciting to be with the extraordinary billionaire, and to be touched by him at any time.
I look over at my mom, unsure what to say. But Grace merely smiles, and looks at me with tears in her eyes.
“My baby is growing up, isn’t she? Is this what you want, Maddy?”
I sense my lover tense by my side, but there’s only one answer.
“Yes Mommy. This is what I want. I love Cameron, and I think it makes sense for us to live together, even if I’m only eighteen. I promise I’ll study hard and keep getting good grades in school.”
My mom walks over to me, and pushes my h
air back from my face with tender fingers.
“When did you become a woman, Maddy?” she asks softly. “It seems like you were only two years old just yesterday.”
I let out a small, choked sound.
“Yes, but even two year olds grow up, Mommy. It’s time that I moved in with Cameron. It’s the right thing to do.”
Grace lets out a sigh and then turns to the dark, handsome CEO.
“If I hear even one bad word about you, I’ll have your neck in the wringer,” she warns him. “Billionaire or not, if you mess with my daughter, you mess with me.”
Cameron merely smiles, and inclines his head.
“Of course, Mrs. Mitchell, but rest assured, I’ll take good care of Maddy. We’ll send for her things in the morning, and then she’ll be ensconced here for good. Of course, you can visit anytime, and all spa services will be provided free.”
My mom turns back to me again, with tears in her eyes once more. She looks really old suddenly, and my heart breaks a bit.
“Are you sure this is what you want, honey?” she asks in a gentle voice. “You can always come home if you want.”
But somehow, I know my future lies with the possessive alpha male, so I smile gently and take his hand while leaning against that big bulk in a show of solidarity.
“This is what I want, Mommy. I’m going to be fine, don’t worry. Go get some sleep now because you must be tired.”
With that, Grace turns away, her shoulders slightly stooped in her nice coat and shuffles to the door. My heart breaks again but then she turns back before leaving and gives me a small wave.
“I love you baby girl,” she says, before disappearing.
With that, I know a chapter of my life has closed, and a new one has opened with Mr. Savage by my side. It will be unexpected and thrilling, yet filled with danger and adventure as well. But somehow, this is right and in my heart of hearts, I know it. I turn to him with a brilliant smile and my heart full, hoping for the best.
“You’re going to be fine, Madeline,” he says, leaning down to press a kiss to my lips.
His touch thrills me and I smile at him, my eyes watery.
“Do you promise?” I ask.
His look is serious as he trails a gentle finger down my cheek.
“I promise.”
And with that, the handsome billionaire and I begin the next adventure.
29
Cameron
A month later.
Maddy has moved into my suite at Le Palms, and the change has been fantastic. She’s giving, sweet, and so interesting to talk to. My life has taken on new dimensions, and it’s all because of a gorgeous eighteen-year-old girl. Who would have thought? It’s astonishing that an old croaker like myself would be absolutely entranced with this woman’s goodness and sweetness, and I can’t even remember what life used to be like without her.
Plus, I treat Maddy like a queen. After all, she deserves it, seeing how she puts up with my growly ways. As a result, tonight I’m taking her to a show at the nearby Parisienne Hotel. It’s probably not a great show, to be honest, because our competitors have always been cheap when it comes to paying performers. I’m not expecting too much other than a mid-rate singer with some flashing lights, and maybe a thrilling soundtrack, but it’s fine. It’s important to keep tabs on the other shows on the Strip, and I’m always one to do his homework.
I wait in the foyer of our suite. My living quarters are huge. They’re on the top floor of the hotel, and there are four bedrooms, all with their own en suite bathrooms. There’s an enormous living area with two flat screen TVs and velvet couches scattered about, as well as a top of the line chef’s kitchen. Maddy squealed when she saw it because she loves to cook. She’s delivered too. We’ve been eating at home a lot because my love has been whipping up the most delectable meals, although we have a chef and room service at our disposal.
What I love most though, is that she moved right into my room without any thought of using one of the guest bedrooms. I didn’t tell her to, she just knew that this is what I wanted. I came home after the movers were done, and sure enough, her things were hanging in my closet and that night, she came straight to bed with me. Of course, there were crazy fireworks, and I sampled her lusciousness over and over again until the sun came up.
But that’s Maddy’s gift. She knows what I want even before I know it, and is able to anticipate my needs. She has a drink ready for me right when I get home, and cooks the most delicious meals I’ve ever tasted. Heck, who knew that assuming gender roles from the 1950’s could be so satisfying? I love how my girl is always so caring and domestic, and enjoy tasting her curves at every chance I get.
But there is something very modern about her, and it shows itself now. Maddy sweeps into the living room from the bedroom, and my heart just about stops in my chest. Because my girl is wearing a short mini-dress that leaves nothing to the imagination. It’s black, and painted on her curves like a second skin. The sweetheart neckline shows off her creamy décolletage, while the hemline stops only a few inches below her pussy. Add to that a pair of five-inch spike heels, and I’m in heaven. Literally, my head feels like it’s going to float off.
“You look amazing,” I growl. “Much too delicious to go to stupid Vivandot at The Parisienne.”
She titters lightly.
“Oh Cameron, we just got out of bed. In fact, I’m still a little sore from that last thing you did, and I’m sure I walk funny now because of it. We should go,” she says with a smile.
I stare at her as she teeters over. It’s true, Maddy is limping just a tiny bit, and her gait has a funny, wide-hipped swing. Well, I know where that’s coming from. She’s been riding me so often that it’s insane her legs aren’t permanently spread yet.
But I merely growl and pull her in for a kiss.
“I hate fucking Pierre Trudeaux, but he is good at managing his assets. This show is going to be shit, but I guess I can sit through it.”
She giggles again, running her hands up and down my broad chest.
“It’ll be fine,” she coos. “If it’s bad, we’ll leave after fifteen minutes. Or we can always get the DVD of the show and watch it in bed?”
That’s a tempting thought. I’m tempted to stream this thing and have that be my research. But I know that once I’m in bed with Maddy, our eyes aren’t going to be on the screen. I’ll have her moaning and crying out within minutes, and it won’t be because of the show.
So I merely grab her short fur jacket and gently place it over her shoulders.
“Let’s go, sweetheart. It’s fine. I’ll survive if I have you there with me.”
She smiles brilliantly my way and takes my hand. Together, we make our way to the elevator and my heart beats rapidly. How did I get so lucky so as to snare the gorgeous Madeline Mitchell? She’s everything I’ve ever wanted and my life feels so amazing with her here.
Soon enough, we’re in a chauffeured car on the way to the Parisienne, and once we get to the hotel, the car pulls into a grand circular driveway. A bellboy rushes over to open the door and Maddy gets out to the bright lights of a fake Eiffel Tower in the front.
“Oooh,” she says with a cheeky grin. “I’d love to see the real Eiffel Tower someday.”
I grab her hand, pulling her towards the auditorium.
“And I’d like to take you there, baby girl. Just you wait.”
She giggles, teetering behind me in her high heels, and soon we’re escorted into a private seating area within the huge arena. The Parisienne is ridiculous as I look around, and this auditorium is no exception. It’s done up with red velvet seats, red booths, and gold-tasseled furniture everywhere. There are huge swaths of dark velvet drapery, also adorned with gold tassels, and the walls are covered in a deep maroon brocade. To top it off, there’s an enormous, dangling crystal chandelier in the middle of the space, so big that it looks like a UFO hovering over the audience’s heads. I’d be afraid for it to come crashing down on me, if I were sitting in orche
stra.
But instead, we’re sitting in a private booth off to the side. It’s an enclosed space so that we’re somewhat secluded, although of course, if people turn their heads to the upper left, they can see me and Maddy no problem. The door closes behind us, and we seat ourselves on the red velvet lounge sofa.
But then a voice sounds behind us.
“Drinks, Mr. Savage? For you, Mrs. Savage?”
It’s just the waiter offering us the drinks menu, but I sense rather than see how Maddy’s gone bright pink at being called Mrs. Savage.
“No thanks,” I say, squeezing her hand. “Or would you like something, sweetheart?”
She manages to get out a small, choked, “No thank you.”
The waiter disappears, leaving us in our plush enclosure once more. I squeeze my girl’s hand.
“Did you like being called Mrs. Savage?” I ask in a low growl. “I definitely liked hearing you called that.”
She inhales sharply, turning to look at me with soft eyes.
“I just … well, everything’s happened so fast between us,” she murmurs. “I mean, a month ago, we didn’t even know each other.”
I squeeze her hand again.
“That’s true but I’d say that things have progressed wonderfully between us, wouldn’t you agree? We’ve always gotten along well, from the very beginning, and I think that time has shown that we’re an excellent fit, emotionally and physically.”
She blushes at my double entendre, but her sassiness comes to the fore then.
“Well, you’re very big, and I’m still limping a bit,” she says in a saucy tone, her eyes sparkling in the dark. “So I’m not so sure about fitting together so well.”
I growl and pull her close so that she tumbles into my arm before bestowing kisses all over her creamy skin.
“You fit me just right, pretty girl. You’re perfect for me in every way.”
She giggles again, pressing her lips against mine in a very satisfying and passionate liplock. But then her eyes grow serious.