by Aimee McNeil
Sophie’s eyes widened. “Guess I better not leave my window open anymore. I don’t want strange guys climbing in my window.”
“No, you don’t.” Ashton’s smile melted her. “I needed to talk to you. You scared me yesterday.” The fear in his words tore at her. Sophie reached up and ran her hands over his hard chest. His hands cupped the sides of her face before he brought his lips down to kiss her forehead and pull her close.
Sophie pulled back and saw the desperation in his eyes. She never expected to have this much of a hold on Ashton. It was a new concept for her and she still expected to wake up from this dream. The elation of this realization made her head swim and her need burn in white hot fury. She pulled herself up and crushed her lips against his. Sophie grabbed handfuls of his shirt, pulling him closer even though there was no space between their bodies. Ashton lifted his shirt over his head and let go of his hold only long enough to discard it before his hands found her again.
Ashton lifted Sophie, pressing her against his hard body, and walked toward her bed, laying her down. “You are so fucking beautiful.” He stood up to discard his jeans on the floor. She could feel her skin heat under his gaze. He leaned over her and kissed her lips softly before trailing down her neck. “I’m yours,” he whispered against her skin, making a smile blossom on Sophie’s swollen lips. This has to be a dream! Don’t wake up. Don’t wake up!
“And I am yours,” she whispered in response. Ashton leaned up to see her face.
“That’s the best thing I ever heard.” His happiness was infectious. Sophie touched his face. “And you are the best thing I have ever seen.” Ashton reached behind her to unclasp her bra. “I feel like I’m going to wake up any minute, because this feels too fucking good to be real.”
Ashton slid his hand down her body, discarding her underwear on the floor with the rest of his clothes. Sophie was addicted to the feel of his body against hers. She loved the taste of him, his smell, and his touch. Her fingers played every line of his body as she took advantage of the sensuality he embodied. Ashton pressed himself between her legs. “You feel so good.” Everything he did brought her intense pleasure, as if he knew the secrets of her body.
“Knowing I was your first makes me very happy.” Ashton looked into Sophie’s eyes. “The other night was the best night of my life…thank you.”
“I know how you feel.” Sophie ran her fingers over his hard stomach and let her touch wander further. She was intrigued by how beautiful his manhood was as it pulsed with desire. She leaned down and kissed him there, inviting him into her warm mouth. Sophie began to slowly explore him, memorizing the feel of him as she found pleasure in giving Ashton pleasure.
Ashton growled as she released him and then climbed over his body to straddle him. His hands never left her skin as she eased herself onto his steely length. “Say you’re mine,” Ashton whispered heatedly.
“I’m yours.” Sophie leaned down and whispered against his lips. “Only yours.” A moan escaped Ashton’s mouth as Sophie began to move against him, his body wound tight underneath her. Sophie responded to the pleasure he gave her, losing herself to the intense feeling that captured her. When Sophie cried out in release, Ashton followed immediately and they both collapsed against the bed.
The feelings she had for Ashton were magical, beautiful, and captivated her beyond anything she ever imagined. She lay beside him and ran his fingers over his tanned, perfect skin.
“I think I am addicted to you.” Ashton’s voice was raspy from their passionate exchange.
“I can live with that.” She moved closer to him and nuzzled his neck. His smell was so enticing, his heat comforting, and everything about him enchanted her. She knew without a doubt that she was addicted to him as well but admitting how deep her feelings ran scared her. A part of her was still scared of getting hurt. “I’m glad you broke into my apartment tonight.”
“Me too…let’s go get an ice cream.” Ashton looked at her playfully. “It’s hot as shit in here.”
“Now?” Sophie giggled at his sudden playful mood.
“Yes, right now. I want to take you out for ice cream.” He stood up and pulled on his pants. Sophie watched the way his muscles rippled. It was sinful how strong and attractive his body was.
“Ice cream does sound good, but so does staying in bed.” Sophie smiled wickedly.
“Oh, we’ll be going back to bed after, just not this bed. I want you in my bed.” He grabbed Sophie’s hand and helped her stand, pulling her against his chest and kissing her on the top of the head.
“Your place?”
“Yes, my place. I want to see what you look like in my bed.”
***
Ashton had taken Sophie to a late night diner that had a ridiculously large selection of flavors. Sophie stared through the glass, trying to narrow down her choice. “Wow…I think I will go with the…cookies ’n cream…or no, make that mint chocolate chip.” Sophie looked up to see Ashton watching her with an amused grin on his face. “What?”
“You look so adorable right now.” He winked as he leaned against the counter.
“Adorable? Seriously? That is what you call little kids.” Sophie huffed with a furrowed brow.
“You are definitely adorable and sexy as fuck. Come here.” Ashton reached for her arm and pulled her against his chest and nipped at her neck.
“Hey!” Sophie giggled. “We have an audience.” Sophie widened her eyes and nodded toward the few late night customers that were scattered through the small diner. There was a man dressed in a suit, his tie loosened and hung haphazardly around his neck; he was completely lost in his computer. An older gentleman sat tucked in a booth reading a paper with a half-eaten piece of cherry pie sitting in front of him. There was a middle aged couple sitting together next to the window sharing a late night meal of burgers and fries as they chatted casually. They seemed to be the only ones that even seemed to notice her and Ashton’s presence, looking up occasionally with polite smiles.
“What?” Ashton looked around the diner consisting of about fifteen tables and booths lining the back wall. It was small and in need of some updating but it was cozy and welcoming. You could tell that whoever owned it had taken care of it, but it had aged like the owner.
“They look like they could use some entertainment.” Ashton’s look made her knees weak.
“How did you know about this place and its many flavors of ice cream?” Sophie asked.
“When I was little my grandfather always brought me here. My favorite times were when I slept over. I always had trouble sleeping as a child and he would bring me here in my pajamas no matter how late it was. I naturally thought that was the coolest thing knowing that my mother would have a fit. My grandfather believed ice cream solved every problem.” Ashton said thoughtfully.
“Wouldn’t that be nice?” Sophie smiled at the thought of a young Ashton sitting with his grandfather eating ice cream in one of the booths.
“Sorry for keeping you waiting. Did you decide yet?” An older woman with vibrant red hair streaked with white shuffled out from the back room carrying supplies. She set them on the counter before turning her full attention toward them. Despite her age a youthful brightness shone in her eyes and lit up her features.
“Yes, we have.” Ashton smiled with recognition.
“It’s been a long time but don’t think I don’t know who you are, Ashton King. Get your handsome self over here and give this old woman a hug.” She came around the counter with her arms spread wide. “It’s good to see you, and who have you brought with you?” She smiled at Sophie. “She is absolutely gorgeous. Where did you find such a lovely girl?”
“I know. I can’t believe my good fortune.” Ashton smiled. “Colleen, this is my girlfriend, Sophie. Sophie, this is Colleen. Colleen has the best selection of ice cream in the whole city.”
“I know what’s important. The ice cream is what keeps all the best customers coming back.” Colleen took Sophie’s hand, giving it a gentle shak
e.
“It’s nice to meet you, Colleen.” Sophie loved the woman’s energy and instantly adored her.
“The pleasure is all mine, sweetheart.”
Sitting in a booth, Sophie and Ashton enjoyed their ice creams. Sophie was in a state of bliss. Every time Ashton looked at her she felt like she was the most important girl in the world. His eyes followed her and a sexy smile teased her. She noted their late night ice cream adventure as one of her favorite evenings of all time. The conversation between them flowed effortlessly and the excitement only built with the promise of things to come when Ashton brought her back to his place. She loved how he leaned toward her, or reached for her hand. Every touch made her desire more.
After a farewell to the friendly waitress, Sophie followed Ashton out into the warm night air. Ashton’s hand found hers and he brought them up to his lips. When they reached his car he pulled her against his chest. Sophie's fingers stroked the hard ridges of his abs beneath his shirt to indulge in his sensual flesh.
“You’re driving me crazy, Sophie,” he whispered hotly in her ear, making goosebumps flash across her skin.
“Oh yeah?” Sophie laughed.
“Yes, it’s so hard to keep my hands to myself. I can’t think straight around you. I just want to touch you…and taste you.” Sophie shivered from his words as they caressed her skin.
“I don’t remember you being the public display of affection kind of guy. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining.” Sophie leaned into his embrace.
“I wasn’t until you. I can’t get enough.” Ashton gently bit the skin of her neck, causing a flash of needy heat to overcome her.
“We should probably go to your place now,” Sophie said breathlessly.
“After you.” Ashton reached around her to open her door.
On the drive to Ashton’s place Sophie saw a small storefront building that had a lease sign in the window. The building had character with its brick front and large showcase windows. “Can you pull over?”
“What’s wrong?”
“I just want to see something.”
When Ashton pulled over on the side of the street, Sophie slipped out of the car and approached the building. The interior was dark and she couldn’t see anything inside but she could see potential in the location and the appearance of the storefront.
“It was a pizza shop…why the interest?” Ashton stepped around her to see her face, studying her expression.
“Wouldn’t you like to know?” Sophie teased. “Just interested for future possibilities.” Sophie pulled out her phone and took a picture of the sign. She looked up at Ashton, who was waiting for her to explain. “Mel and I have plans…well, we are in the very beginning of the planning stage, but still, this place makes me excited. It would be perfect.”
“You and Mel are making plans? Should I even ask?”
“We’re opening our own strip joint. I want to give it a try.” Sophie tried to sound serious but Ashton’s expression turned almost panicked as he stared at her. “I was joking…are you nervous I would make a fool of myself trying to do my “Don’t Cha” routine for the world to see?”
Ashton looked visibly relieved with her confession. “No, I was thinking that I was going to have to buy up every available piece of real estate in the city to prevent your little business endeavor.”
Sophie’s face fell in shock. “I was that bad? Geez.”
“No, just the opposite. That was so fucking sexy. I don’t want anyone else to see you take your clothes off except me. I’m a very selfish person, Sophie, and I don’t like to share. I don’t want to share you with anyone…ever.” Ashton stepped closer, leaning down so he was a breath away from her. His smell was heady, causing her whole body to need him with an intensity that ravished her. She was completely lost in him and she knew there would be no going back. “You’re like a drug, Sophie.” He grazed his lips over her cheek, running his fingers through her hair. His nearness caused her insides to heat, caused her heart to race, and her mind to fog. She was lost in the lust he ignited in her in a white hot fury. A moan escaped her lips as he ran his tongue along her neck. “My. Place. Now.” Sophie practically melted from his arms when he pulled back. It took great effort to keep her legs beneath her. Ashton opened her door and she slid in like she was made of liquid.
The ride was short to his place and Sophie was grateful because his eyes made her skin heat and she couldn’t find any words. The sexual energy between them was intoxicating. This passionate lust was a new experience for her. Her body wanted him like he was breath for her lungs. Is this love? Whatever it is, it feels absolutely amazing!
Chapter
Twenty-Four
Ashton pulled his car up in front of a beautiful sleek building. A doorman approached once they came to a stop. Ashton swung open his door and stepped out. Sophie’s door was opened by a man with an inviting demeanor.
“Thank you,” Sophie said softly.
“My pleasure. Do you have any bags that you need assistance with, dear?” The man was probably in his forties with graying hair and a perfectly trimmed mustache.
“Got it, Alfred,” Ashton answered before Sophie could. He had already retrieved Sophie’s small duffle bag from the back of the car. Sophie was surprised to have a doorman assisting them. He seemed to be on familiar terms with Ashton, anticipating that Ashton would toss his keys. He grabbed them easily when they soared through the air in his direction.
“Very well. Have a good evening, miss.” The doorman bowed respectfully.
“You too. It was nice to meet you. I’m Sophie, by the way.” Sophie offered her hand. The man seemed amused as he accepted her hand.
“Charles, but you can call me Alfred if you like. Ashton seems to think it more fitting. I won’t tell you what I call him. I fear it would not be appropriate for a lovely lady such as you to hear. Though, I will tell you it is definitely not Bruce Wayne.” He winked.
“Hey now. Be nice. Don’t scare her off.” Ashton reached over and grabbed Sophie’s hand, pulling her along with him. Another man was holding the main doors open for them as they walked toward the entrance.
“Where are we?” Sophie whispered, walking into the grand building. A beautifully decorated lounge presented before them—it looked professionally decorated with exquisite art covering the walls and a large desk made of marble stretched out to the left with a woman sitting behind it. The building was impressive.
“Good evening, Mr. King.” The woman behind the counter practically salivated as they walked past. Sophie watched the woman’s eyes linger on Ashton.
“Evening.” Ashton nodded as he kept his pace quick. Ashton seemed oblivious to her interest. Sophie decided against acknowledging the woman, whose thoughts were written all over her face.
“This is where I live. Well, on the top floor, actually.” He pressed the elevator button impatiently.
When the elevator doors opened, Ashton pulled her inside. Sophie looked around the mirrored interior. She looked up and caught his darkened eyes locked on her in their reflection, his jaw clenching. Her face heated from the intention that was painted on his expression. As soon as the doors closed completely his hands were on her. Her bag dropped to the floor and he lifted her up easily, pinning her between his hard body and the cool mirrored wall. He greedily roamed her body with his hands. His fingers reached under the hem of her shirt and browsed her sensitive flesh teasingly.
“Should we be doing this? There might be cameras in here or something.” Sophie panted from the desire that now coursed through her, robbing her of breath.
“There are cameras but I don’t fucking care. I can’t wait to touch you.”
“Ashton!” Sophie gasped, trying to pull her shirt back down and right herself. The elevator beeped and the doors began to open. Ashton reached down for her bag before he turned around and grabbed Sophie, throwing her over his shoulder.
“What are you doing?” Sophie couldn’t help the laughter that spilled from her.
His hand cupped her bottom under her shorts and she squealed out in laughter. “Ashton! Put me down. I want to see your place.” From what Sophie could see from her view over Ashton’s shoulder the place was wonderful. Full height windows ran along the outside wall, giving an incredible view of the city below.
“Sure. You can see my place but we start with my room,” he said playfully. Sophie screamed when he dropped her on the bed.
“Is this how you bring all the girls into your place?” Sophie laughed as she sat up on his bed.
“I have never brought another girl to this place before. You are the only girl I want in my bed.” Ashton leaned down to kiss her lips. The city lights shone in the massive window that covered an entire wall in his room, casting a glow over his body. She ran her fingers over the magnificent bone structure of his cheek. She couldn’t help but appreciate his perfection.
Sophie pulled away from the kiss. Reaching down, she pulled her shirt up over her head. “I want you,” Sophie whispered as she let him take in her flesh. She pulled the straps of her bra down off her shoulders before reaching back and unclasping it.
“I want you more,” he whispered, watching her. Sophie was driven by the heat and the desire to be with him that overcame her.
Sophie slipped off his bed and stood in front of the window so she was cast in the lights that shone upon them. She unbuttoned her shorts and slid them down the length of her legs. Her panties followed. She stood in front of him completely naked and heated with the need for his touch. “Don’t move,” she whispered as she approached him.
Sophie walked toward Ashton, who stood watching her, unmoving with clenched fists. His gaze followed her like a predator watching his prey. She stepped behind him and reached for his shirt, pulling it up. Ashton reached back over his shoulder, pulled his shirt off over his head, and dropped it on the floor. Sophie’s hands skimmed his waist as she ran her hands around to the hard rippled flesh of his stomach. She loved all the grooves that her fingers dipped into. She reached for the button of his pants as she pressed her breasts against his back and his breathing became deep and labored.