Tempting Mr. Parker

by Delilah Hunt

  Cade squeezed her to him, pressing his lips to the side of her head. “You have my word; however, there’s nothing you could say that would turn me away from you. Love doesn’t work like that.”

  Shakara swiped the back of her hand across her damp eyelashes. “All right.” She had no idea where to begin. “What do you want to know?”

  “Where are your parents?”

  “I don’t know. I lived with my mother and she never mentioned who my father was. She didn’t want me, told me so every opportunity she had. I stayed with her until the state took me from her.” Shakara paused to take note of his reaction. His arms remained locked and his face betrayed no emotions. She was relieved. It made speaking easier.

  “Did she hurt you?” he asked in a hushed tone.

  Shakara sat up in his lap, straightening her shoulders. All the emotions she’d kept hidden came pouring out. “Of course she hurt me. The bitch thought I was trying to steal her latest boyfriend. I was twelve for God’s sake. He had me on the floor…” Her voice broke into tears and she covered her face, her shoulders shaking violently.

  “Shakara, baby, I’m so sorry, I had no idea...” Cade drew her closer but she pulled back, shaking her head. She wanted to tell him because she knew he would be on her side.

  “He was about to rape me and she got angry, beating the hell out of me. To be honest, I don’t even remember that much except waking up in the hospital and being told I wasn’t going back to her.”

  Shakara felt him stiffen beneath her, yet he maintained his silence, allowing her to pour her heart out.

  “I heard nothing from them afterward. I didn’t care. I had other worries. After I left the hospital they put me in a bunch of foster homes. Some of them were okay, others, not so much. I was sixteen when they sent me to the last one. It was horrible, the woman only kept us around for the money from the state. Her husband was worse. He drank all the time. One day he came on to me, basically ordering me to wait for him that night. I didn’t have to think twice. I bolted the first chance I had and never looked back.”

  “My God. You were just a child. You had no one else. Where did you go?” His voice shook.

  She averted her eyes for a second, then glanced up at him. “You really want to know all this?”

  “Yes. It hurts like hell to hear it, but I need to know.”

  Shakara took a deep breath, mustering up the courage to bare her secret to him. “I had nowhere else to go. That didn’t stop me because I knew I couldn’t stay there. The first couple of nights I was terrified that someone would find me and force me to return. It never happened. So, I...” She looked away not wanting him to see her face. “I was homeless. I followed the lead of the others.” She fixed her gaze on him to drive her point home. “All those homeless people you see on television, on the news. The tattered clothing, rummaging for food, sleeping in alleyways, abandoned buildings—for me that was real life.”

  She lowered her voice. “I know you think stripping is horrible, but the day I took a chance and went inside the club—it became a lifesaver for me, as ridiculous as it sounds.”

  “I’m so fucking sorry.” Cade buried his face in her neck. “I wish I could go back in time and snatch you away from those hardships. You didn’t deserve it, baby girl, none of it. I hope you’re aware of that. You did absolutely nothing wrong.”

  “I know.” She exhaled, forcing a smile to her lips. “There you have it. The life and times of Shakara James. I suppose that little history lesson destroyed your fantasy of me, right?”

  “I’ve never placed you on a pedestal Shakara. You’re as you’ve always been.”

  Her eyes eyebrows went up. “Oh yeah. What am I?”

  “The sweetest, bravest woman I know. The only woman I could ever—will ever love.”

  Chapter Eleven

  Despite only being a week into their relationship, Cade made sure to arrange his busy schedule around spending time with Shakara. Although he accepted her reasoning for working at the restaurant, it didn’t diminish his distaste for the environment and attire. Still, he was wise enough to refrain from bringing it up—along with any offer of financial assistance.

  Homeless. Beaten. Almost raped. Cade tightened his fist, unable to overcome the surge of anger and hatred for everyone who had done her wrong. How the hell could anyone look at Shakara and abuse her? It made him sick. And the feeling didn’t end with those faceless strangers. He was included with that sorry bunch of assholes.

  Even now he wanted to kick himself for his jealousy toward her dancing in the exotic club. A lifesaver, she’d said. It had been a way out for her and he, selfish bastard that he was, had dared to look down his superior nose at her.

  He jammed a hand inside his pocket, swiveling around at the sound of the main entry door being closed in a jarring thud.

  Julie rushed over, throwing her arms around him. “Have I told you lately that you’re the most awesome brother in the whole wide world?”

  He rolled his eyes and eased a booklet out of her hands. “There’s no need to butter me up. I’ve already purchased the condo.”

  “I’m still in shock that after months of trying to convince you, you’ve finally agreed. I didn’t even have to browbeat you.”

  He shot her a look telling her to quit while ahead. Laughing, Julie held up her hands in surrender. “Not that I’m complaining. Really, I’m not. I can’t believe I have my own place.”

  “When are you thinking of moving in?” he asked, flipping through the pamphlet.

  “Tomorrow, if you don’t mind. I can pick up the keys in the morning.”

  Cade gave a sharp nod, taking note of the curious glint in his sister’s eyes. No questions, Julie. He didn’t have to share his motivation for buying the condo. It was none of her business if he wanted to move Shakara into the house. Hell, he did it for all of their sakes. If Julie remained in the house, there would be zero chance of convincing Shakara to share his bedroom. Also, he doubted his little sister would be comfortable with her best friend and brother having sex under the same roof as her.

  “Aren’t you going to be lonely in this big house without me?” Julie asked.

  Cade laughed and ruffled her hair. “You mean will I miss reminding you to pick up after yourself?”

  She stuck out her lip. “Whatever. You know you’re going to miss me, especially since Shakara won’t be coming around anymore.”

  “What does your leaving the house have to do with me and Shakara?”

  Her lips turned in a slow calculating manner. “She’s my friend. If I’m not here she has no reason to stop by. That means you’ve lost out on your chance with her.” Her smile shifted into accusation. “It’s your own damn fault. Why can’t you admit you like her? She’s a cool person. I’m sure if you beg, Shakara would forgive you for being such an ass to her.”

  “I’d rather you not use that tone with me. And secondly, you need to stay out of this.”

  “Stay out of what,” Julie snapped. “The fact that you refuse to recognize that you’re half in love with Shakara but too scared to do anything about it because you care what people might think. Or should I ignore that my dear brother is getting older and lonelier each year.” She placed a hand on his shoulder. “C’mon, Cade. I love you. I worry about you, that’s all. Don’t you want to get married one day and have children?”

  Sighing, Cade brushed away her hand. She may have had a point months ago. Things were different now. He no longer concerned himself with the opinions his friends and associates would form regarding his relationship with Shakara.

  “I appreciate your concern. Enjoy this new stage in your life, Julie. Don’t worry about me.”

  “What about Shakara? You like her, don’t you?”

  He issued her a deadpan stare. “Like is not the word I’d choose. I love her.”

  Julie gasped then smacked her hands together, her green eyes bulging. “I knew it!”

  “Shakara knows how I feel about her. Don’t be upset with her for
not confiding in you about our relationship. She would have told you in her own time.”

  “Oh my God. You two are together?”

  Cade stiffened, feeling slightly uncomfortable having this talk with his sister. “We’re a couple.”

  “Oh, Cade, I’m so happy for you guys.” Her arms crashed around him. A second later she was hurrying up the stairs, letting out a loud girlish squeal that made him cringe and thankful that she was moving out.

  Chapter Twelve

  Shakara smoothed her dress, adjusting the dark green material that stopped at the middle of her thigh. She’d taken the time before work to stop downtown and visit Julie’s new place. As she’d expected, her best friend had wanted to hear the details of her relationship with Cade. Well, everything except their sex life, of course.

  It was a huge relief seeing that her friend was happy for them. Despite Julie’s earlier suggestion that she and Cade be a couple, Shakara worried that perhaps the reality of it would be strange for Julie. Her best friend dating her brother.

  Dating. She disliked that word. It sounded too casual to describe what they felt for each other. She loved Cade, although she had yet to voice the words to him.

  Soon, she thought, slipping past the revolving door into the towering skyscraper that housed Parker Architectural Design. This was her first time visiting him at work and she wanted to surprise him.

  Shakara nodded to the security guard as her heels clicked on the slated marble tile. She quirked her lips in amusement at the obvious way the man’s head dipped to the side, checking out her ass. Good. That meant she’d chosen the right dress to wear to see her man.

  Moments later, she stepped onto the elevator. Cade’s design firm was located on the last three floors, his private office at the highest level.

  Shakara exited the elevator. She hadn’t walked two steps before a crisp voice addressed her.

  “Can I help you?”

  She blinked, hesitating for a moment. “I’m not sure.”

  An older woman sat behind an impressive artistically designed desk, her dark hair held in a crisp bun at the back of her head. “Do you have an appointment?”

  “No, I don’t, but I’m—”

  “Then I’m afraid I can’t help you. Are you sure you are in the correct building? This is an architectural firm. That means—”

  “I know what it means,” Shakara snapped. Refusing to allow the woman to spoil her good nature, Shakara sighed, plastering on a smile. “I’m here to see Mr. Parker.”

  The receptionist shook her head. “I’m sorry. Mr. Parker is an extremely busy man. You’ll have to come back another time when you have an appointment.”

  “I’d like an appointment now.”

  The woman cast her eyes over Shakara’s outfit, disapproval shining brightly. “That’s not possible. If by some chance you do have legitimate business here, I can refer to you an associate.” Her face lifted and the air of disdain vanished within an instant. “What exactly can we do for you?”

  Shakara pursed her lips, feeling a tinge of regret in entering the building. Was there something wrong with what she wore? Her dress was perfectly normal. Sure, there was a bit of skin, but nothing that was too revealing. Her nerves began to take hold of her and she stomped it down. She had nothing to be ashamed of.

  “I’m friends with Julie Parker. Mr. Parker’s sister. It’s important that I speak with him.” Why didn’t she say she was his girlfriend? That would have been so much easier. But there it was, the fear that by doing so she would jinx herself, ruin the luck she was having. Also, what if Cade didn’t want anyone to know about them? God, that didn’t bear contemplating. She wouldn’t believe that, not for a second.

  The receptionist relented, lifting the phone with her wrinkled hands while issuing Shakara a look of blatant suspicion.

  “Parker.” She could hear Cade’s thick voice through the line.

  “Yes. Mr. Parker, there’s a woman—” She looked at Shakara. “I’m sorry what did you say your name was?”

  “James. Just tell him Ms. James.”

  “Yes, Sir. There’s a Ms. James here to see you. She claims to be a friend of your sister’s.” Shakara heard the question in the woman’s tone.

  “Send her in.” She heard him say followed by a sharp click.

  The receptionist gawked at the phone shocked Cade hadn’t ordered her sent away for being a liar.

  “Mr. Parker will see you now.” She stood, leaning over the desk and pointed. “Go straight through that door and make a right. His office is the one on the left.”

  “Thanks,” she muttered, pulling open the glass door.

  Shakara raised her chin, aware of the eyes watching her. Did they stare at all of Cade’s clients like this? She had a sinking feeling they didn’t.

  To the right. Last door on the left. She stood in front of the door and gave it a single knock, then pushed on the handle. Her heart flipped at the sight of Cade striding toward her. He clutched her to him and lifted her off the ground.

  “Why didn’t you tell me you were stopping by?” He dropped a kiss on her lips.

  “Where’s the fun in that? It’s called a surprise.”

  H swatted her on the ass and carried her over to his chair.

  “I like surprises,” Cade said, pulling her onto his lap. “Especially when they’re wrapped in such a sweet little package.” His fingers caressed the insides of her thighs.

  She leaned into him. Her back rested against his chest and his lips brushed warm kisses along her neck.

  “I know you do. So, here I am.”

  He chuckled low, nipping her earlobe. “Am I allowed to unwrap my package?”

  “Maybe. If you tell me what you’re going to with it.” Shakara squirmed on the fingers stroking her folds.

  “I could do a lot with you, and I think from the feel of your cunt you’d be more than willing to let me.”

  “Cade,” she whispered. Why did he have to be right?

  “Shh,” He placed his hands behind her and she heard the sound of a zipper’s undoing. Next, he lifted her dress, hiking it around her waist.

  “What if someone comes in?” Shakara raised her hips allowing him easier access.

  “No one would dare. I’m the boss. My office,” he groaned, thrusting upward into her.

  She bit her lips and fought the urge to moan aloud, unwilling to bring attention to their lascivious activity.

  “I’m asking you one more time, Ms. James, what brings you here today?”

  “This,” she rasped. “I came for you to fuck me.”

  He accepted her answer then fastened his hand around her, pumping hard.

  Shakara rode his cock, moaning at the feel of his warm lips on her back. Behind her Cade grunted, intensifying his thrusts.

  “Is this what you had in mind?”

  “Yes.” Shakara closed her eyes, overcome with joy. “I love having your cock inside me. I’ve never felt anything this amazing in my entire life.”

  “You’ll have it, baby girl. Every chance I get I’m going to fuck your beautiful cunt.”

  “Oh God,” Shakara cried, her entire body jerking on his shaft. She was about to come all over him—in the middle of the day in his office.

  Cade shouted his release and held her in place, filling her with his semen. Shakara mewled, her cunt tightening around his pulsating cock. Planting a kiss on her temple, Cade withdrew, leaving her bereft except for the sticky residue between her thighs.

  Clasping her arms around his neck, she turned to him. “I love you.” A heavy weight lifted from her. She kissed him and repeated. “I’ve always loved you.”

  ****

  Cade’s heart slammed inside his chest. She loved him. Shakara had fulfilled his greatest desire.

  He tipped her chin up, prompting her to look at him. His eyes bored into hers. “You’re mine, aren’t you?”

  “I am,” she whispered. “I’ll always be your baby girl.”

  Groaning, he hugged her to him,
inhaling her scent. She smelled of lavender and vanilla. So damn feminine.

  He held her close oblivious to the minutes ticking by, until Shakara shifted on his lap. “I should be going. I’m sure you have lots of important work to do. I don’t want to keep you from it.” She pulled out of his embrace.

  “Nothing’s more important that you,” he told her, adjusting his pants.

  “You do realize I don’t have any panties on for you to charm your way into?”

  Chuckling low, Cade followed her to the door. Her luscious hips swayed with each step she took and he felt his cock swell.

  “Go before I take you again on the floor.” He swatted her on the ass.

  She laughed. “Now that’s a promise I’ll hold you to.”

  Cade shook his head, smiling at her as she gripped the handle of the door. The door swung open before she had a chance to turn it and he cursed under his breath. Andrew Radcliffe stood outside his office.

  Chapter Thirteen

  “I didn’t realize you had company, Parker.” Radcliffe said, fixing his eyes on Shakara. “I’ll stop by later.”

  She issued him a furtive glance, then closed the door behind her, leaving the two men alone.

  “Parker, you sneaky bastard.” Radcliffe grinned. “Leave the grind to us lowly employees, while you’re in here getting off.”