Forgotten Truth (The Forgotten Series Book 1)

by Wine, Virginia

“Nathaniel, so good to see you.” Dad grabs me in a man hug. He pauses and looks over at Bryer.

  “Dad, I’d like you to meet Bryer Reid. Bryer, my dad, Nathaniel James, Sr.”

  He smiles and takes her hand in both of his. “Bryer, so nice to meet you. I’m looking forward to getting to know you. You’re the first girl Junior has brought home.”

  Her eyebrows go up and she looks my way. I shrug.

  “Sir, the pleasure is all mine.”

  “Come in. Come in.”

  Dad leads us through the threshold into the grand foyer. White marble floors glimmer and a huge vase of flowers on the entrance table fills the room with a sweet fragrance. I notice this does not escape Bryer.

  “You have a beautiful home, Mr. James.” Bryer says, sounding more intimidated than I’d like her to.

  “Thank you, my dear.”

  We wander through the great room and I watch Bryer take it all in. The plush Oriental rug, the warm colors. The richness is blatant.

  “Can I offer you both a drink?” Dad asks, with his back to us.

  “Bryer, would you like some wine?” I say.

  “That would be great.”

  My father turns and gives her a sincere smile and raises one eyebrow at me.

  “Just tonic for me, sir,” I say.

  He nods and pours our drinks. “Let’s have a seat while Mary Ann prepares dinner.

  “Bryer, you’re a beautiful young woman. What line of work are you in?”

  Since this is innocent enough, I just smile and let Bryer spread her wings.

  “I’m the marketing manager for a woman’s apparel company, but our merchandise varies. I’ve been there for over a year now and hope to move up within the company. I get to dabble in fashion, which is every girl’s dream.”

  They both smile.

  “Is that where you met my son?” He knows full well the answer is no.

  “No, sir. We met at Nathan’s gym.”

  “Oh, the gym. I see.”

  Bryer sits close enough that our bodies touch. I like the fact she feels confident displaying open affection under these circumstances. She reaches for my hand and our fingers entangle.

  It doesn’t go unnoticed by my father. Good. I want him to know she matters.

  “Nathan tells me you’re in finance, Mr. James.” Bryer steams ahead and I applaud her boldness.

  “Yes, my entire life. I’m sure Nathan’s mentioned I own Federal Financial.”

  She turns to me. “Actually, he didn’t.” Bryer smiles.

  “Well, it’s no secret that I’d have loved for him to follow in my footsteps, but his own passion ruled that out long ago. Nathan’s college experience prepared him to take over the company, but his hobby won out.”

  Although that sounded like a backhanded compliment, I warm at his honest assessment of this situation. It’s taken a long time for him to change his opinion of my profession.

  “My father has come to terms with my choice, but don’t get him wrong. There’s a CEO chair with my name on it, I’m sure,” I joke.

  “I couldn’t have said it better, Junior. You’re more than welcome to join me anytime. We’re international now, son.”

  Always selling me. “Thanks, Dad. I appreciate the standing offer.”

  “Dinner will be served in ten minutes,” Mary Ann announces. She’s been Dad’s housekeeper and cook for many years, since my mother died and he moved here she has always been warm and friendly, and she softens the place when she’s here.

  My father nods to her.

  “I can personally recommend your son’s training abilities. He’s extremely knowledgeable and has a rare talent that makes you want to work hard.”

  “Yes, it’s my job to give you the full benefit of my talents,” I tease, knowing the statement might embarrass her a bit. Then I squeeze her hand.

  “So you’re one of Nathan’s clients too?” My father looks at me. Is that disapproval in his eyes?

  “I’m lucky to be one of the select few. He has a waiting list,” Bryer brags.

  “Our place is growing faster than we’d expected. Clayton is just as busy.” I’m defensive about the gym, as usual.

  Mary Ann makes an appearance. “Dinner is served.”

  “Shall we go to the dining room?” my father asks.

  At the table, I’m seated next to Bryer. I pull her chair out and settle her in, while father sits at the head of the table.

  Our salads are presented, and my father mentions his business acquaintance has only had positive things to say about the training of his daughter. “He praised your talents and professionalism, Nathan.”

  Fuck, don’t say her name, Dad. I feel a train wreck approaching.

  “Camilla said it was a wonderful experience and plans to continue.”

  Bryer tenses beside me when my dad says her name.

  “Actually, she’s training with Clayton now, since my schedule is so tight.”

  I reach for Bryer’s hand and she accepts it. When she squeezes back, I breathe a sigh of relief.

  We get through the main dish, chatting about superficial subjects and Bryer makes up for my silence. I’ll let her know how much I appreciate it later. I decide bringing up the nightmares would be better suited for alone time with my father.

  Coffee is served on the expansive patio with the stars and the moon shining brightly. I have always loved it out here.

  “You have a beautiful garden, Mr. James,” Bryer says.

  “This has always been Junior’s favorite place. It goes on for two more acres, well into the woods.”

  “Junior,” she whispers.

  My father looks at me with a grin. He wanted me to carry his name forward. And that always touched me.

  The phone rings in the distance.

  “Mr. James, you have a business call, it’s the security company, they’re sending a new body guard tomorrow.” Mary Ann announces.

  “Thank you. Will you excuse me for a moment?”

  “Why do you need body guards?”

  “It’s the way it’s done now,” he replies, leaving me questioning if that’s the real story. This is typical of him.

  “Hold on Dad, not everyone needs bodyguards unless they are in danger.”

  “Nathaniel, anyone at my level is in danger.” He continues walking, evading my questions.

  “Why, did something happen?”

  “Nathan it’s best you keep your nose in ‘gym’ business, unless you have had a change of heart.” Ouch.

  “Have it your way, Dad, just let me know if you’re in trouble.” He doesn’t answer. What the hell was that?

  I shake it off and relish the time alone with Bryer.

  “You’re amazing. You have my father eating out of your hands.”

  “I highly doubt that,” Bryer says. “But, I’m glad you approve.”

  I take full advantage of the few moments alone and pull her into my arms. “You’re so beautiful, woman.”

  “You’re quite irresistible yourself.”

  “Am I?” My erection just became obvious.

  “Nothing like getting right to the point.”

  In walks my father, with a knowing smile on his face.

  “Dad, we should head back,” I say. “It was a lovely dinner, and I’m pleased you got to meet Bryer.”

  “It was my pleasure. You’re both welcome back any time.” He accompanies us as we walk through the house.

  “Thank you, sir.” Bryer holds out her hand and he takes it. “I would love to visit again. You have an incredible home, and thank Mary Ann for us also. The meal was incredible.”

  Driving back, we’re both relaxed.

  “I enjoyed myself, Junior.” She smiles and leans towards the door playfully, like she may need to escape.

  “You can’t possibly get away from me.” I laugh at her playfulness. Then I lean over and tickle her side until she squeals and giggles. What a wonderful sound. I plan on hearing that again. “I thought it went fine. More than fine. Thank
you for being so…you.”

  We pull in her apartment parking lot, and I can’t wait to kiss her. It’s been way too long.

  “Bryer.” I put my arm over the back of her seat. She turns and leans over my console. “I can’t begin to tell you how much I want you. When I look at you, everything else disappears.”

  “You’re kind of addicting yourself.” She gives me the sweetest smile that makes my pants uncomfortably tight. I’m hard as granite.

  Her sexy lips tell me they want me. I’m almost there, and the anticipation is sexy as fuck. “Let’s try to make it to your door.”

  She moans in response, and I love that she hates to break apart too. I give her my hand, and I can’t help but glance at her perfect body. A fierce desire flames inside of me.

  I barely get her inside before she orders, “Take off your shirt.” I strip and she stares at my exposed chest. Her hands run up and down till she reaches my buckle. She quickly discards my belt with the speed of a whip.

  “That was scary,” I tease. Suddenly my pants are around my ankles. Then off go my shoes and socks.

  “This is going to be fast and hard,” she says.

  What. The. Hell. I want to feel this woman and make her scream.

  She reaches for her top and I take over. “Oh no you don’t. Allow me.”

  She’s naked and wrapped around my waist when I walk her to her bedroom, kissing her hard as we go.

  “Nathan, I crave every part of you,” she pants.

  “I’ve been waiting all day for this.” I throw her on her bed.

  “You animal.” She giggles.

  “Be careful what you ask for, baby.”

  I’m on top of her within seconds and I feel between her legs. “You’re so wet for me.” After the condom’s in place, I position myself at her opening. “You said fast and hard?” I slam into her and start grinding. “Do you feel me, Bryer?”

  “God, yes,” she moans and I slam into her again.

  Her screams of ecstasy are exactly what I need to heighten my intensity. I pump into her with fury and she gives it right back. With every stroke, her moans heighten my pleasure.

  “Don’t stop,” she moans.

  “Jesus, you’re like a vise.”

  “Kegels,” she pants out.

  I’ll remember to thank her later.

  “Baby, I’ll follow you,” I urge on.

  She arches her back and my name falls from her lips. That’s all I need to send me over. I push into her one more time and my cock explodes. Electricity soars through my body. The feeling is infused with a physical and emotional thrill. I have nothing to compare it too.

  Does she feel it too? My body shudders on top of her while I support my weight.

  “That was amazing, Nathan. You know my body like no one ever has.”

  “I feel you too, baby.” I kiss her.

  Chapter Twelve

  ~Bryer~

  “COMING.” I SAY.

  Gen opens my door and I only see happiness in her eyes. How does she do that? She’s always balanced, fun, and cheerful. I pull her into a big hug and she hugs me back tightly.

  “Why thank you, best friend. So you want to sex-up your workout outfit? I have just the thing.” She laughs and hands me a bag and I shake my head.

  “We’re working out in the private manager’s gym. I need to make a statement.” I smirk.

  “Oh, you will. Is this getting serious?”

  “What makes you ask that?” Do I want to admit it yet?

  “You haven’t been serious about a man since Cash.”

  “I’m happy, but what scares me most of all is the power he holds over me.”

  “Just live and enjoy life. You can’t let your past dictate who you are.”

  God, I love her.

  “I know. I’ll let you know how it goes. Thanks for your help.”

  “Toodles.”

  ***

  ARRIVING EARLY, I walk in the gym and while I notice a few of Nathan’s clients doing cardio, I head to the office first.

  I tell Clayton I’m meeting Nathan here. “I’ll go change.”

  “Just go in when you’re ready,” he says. “It’s not locked.” He smiles like he’s in on some secret. “The private manager’s workout room is the last door on your right.”

  I nod and head to the ladies locker room.

  I undress and pull Gen’s outfit from the bag.

  “What the hell?”

  It’s a skimpy pink sports bra and white boy shorts that will not cover my God given plump ass. I put it on and slowly walk to the full-length mirror.

  “Holy Hell!”

  Thank God it’s just the two of us and not the entire gym. This is completely inappropriate. I love it!

  After glancing outside the locker room, I make a dash to the last door marked ‘Private. Managers Only’ and slip inside. I find Nathan in shorts and shoes but nothing else. I catch my breath. His body is perfection. Like God decided to create the ideal male specimen just for me. Thank you, God. His tattoo shimmers in this low light, making it stand out.

  He’s punching that huge bag and giving it a run for its money. I would much rather stay here and watch this show than participate.

  “Bryer,” he says without even turning, steadying the bag. He faces me, and his wavy hair is a sweaty mess that drips onto the mat.

  “Jesus.” His eyes travel slowly down my body. He doesn’t speak again, but I see his lips part. His breathing is heavy, and I like to think it’s because of me and not from his workout.

  “You came to workout?” he jokes.

  I nod. “I’m all yours.”

  “Wrong answer.” He laughs. “Dressed like that, you’ll be sweating for an entirely different reason.” He growls as he stalks closer and wraps his arms around my waist and lifts me into a hug. He smells like the woods after the rain. His own sinful scent mixed with musk--a deadly combo. He kisses my neck and sets me down.

  “You’re killing me, woman. We need to start working out or…”

  “Or?” I tease.

  “I think you know.” He closes his eyes to keep his concentration on the workout. “Cardio or weights?”

  “Cardio for me. It always warms me up.” Seductively, I brush my body against his as I walk over to the elliptical machine. I feel him watching my ass. It’s more exposed than I’m comfortable with, but it feels powerful at the same time.

  “Give me strength,” he whispers.

  “The feeling is mutual.”

  Nathan gathers his composure and heads to the row of weights. He reaches for the heaviest set on the rack, and I watch his perfect form lifting up and down. His arms shake and his muscles bulge as he sweats. It’s a sight to see. As he moves on to legs, I watch in awe.

  “You’re doing wonders for my libido.” I chuckle.

  “I’m not going to get much of a workout, am I?” He flashes a panty dropping smile.

  Oh God.

  “No, I’m on it. Weights for me” I say.

  “Do you need me to spot you?”

  “Oh no. I was trained by the best.” I wink.

  I grab a bar with twenty-pound weights on each end, set it on my shoulders, and squat in front of the mirror. My form is perfect--slow down, pause, and fast up. Each time, I make sure I can go as low as possible. My ass sticks out when I use all my leg muscles for strength. I count as I go, and Nathan watches me while wiping sweat off his brow. It is a total turn on knowing that I have his undivided attention, although the professional in him may be judging my technique. I hope not.

  “Sexy, huh?”

  “Hell yeah, but nice form too.” He grins.

  “Twenty-three, twenty-four,” I count, almost out of breath. “Working out with you is distracting.”

  “You can say that again.” He adjusts himself.

  I set the bar down and head over to the free weights. There, I lean over after placing one knee on the bench. I arch my back before pulling the weight upward to work my triceps. The position gives
Nathan quite a view. Soon, he’s leaning over me, breathing on my neck.

  “Bryer, I don’t think I’ve ever shown you this particular move,” he whispers, pressing his sweaty body to mine.

  “Really? I’ve watched you do this move. It’s very memorable.”

  “Follow me.” He reaches for my hand and I’m pulled over to the massage table. “Hop up on the stretching table.”

  Oh, stretching? A massage would have been so much better.

  “What do you have in mind?”

  “Lie flat on your stomach,” he commands.

  I turn over and my body sticks to the leather. His hands move my hair off my neck. He leans over and kisses me there.

  “Yes.” I sigh.

  He moves his hands down my arms, massaging until I’m tingling all over. Then he gently works the muscles in my back. I moan and he grabs my ass, but we’re soon distracted by the sound of people arguing. Nathan’s hands leave me, and I get up and swing my legs over the bench.

  Camilla storms in, her long, black straight hair swinging behind her. “Nathan, what’s going on? Clayton tells me he’s taking over my sessions permanently. I thought it was a one-time thing. I want an explanation. Is this your way of dumping me and passing me off to your best friend?” She’s fuming. “My father won’t appreciate your rude, unprofessional behavior.”

  Clayton stands behind her and shrugs.

  Nathan takes charge, leaving me behind. “Camilla, I don’t want to have this discussion here.”

  “Well, we are.”

  He breathes out in frustration. “We had an understanding. Don’t pretend we didn’t discuss it. As far as anything else, we were friend’s having a good time. You knew that. Clayton was free to take over your account. I’m unavailable. You have no choice.”

  As I watch her expression turn from anger to pain, a part of me wonders if I’ll be the next Camilla.

  “Is this the reason you’re booked so tightly, Nathan?” Camilla waves her hand in my direction. “Your new flavor of the week?”

  Spoiled, rich bitch. Nathan has seconds to react before my claws come out.

  “She has nothing to do with what happened or didn’t happen between us,” he tells her. “It was a temporary thing and it’s over. Training you now would be a conflict of interest.”