by S. Valentine
“Ah…” Darion’s groan was rough sounding. His hands fisted at his sides.
She bobbed her head up and down, tightening her lips around his length. She loved the sounds of appreciation that came from him. She sucked harder, and stroked with her hand.
“Gabi…” he panted, his features screwed up. “Don’t stop.”
He pushed her head down further. He rocked his hips upwards, groaning every time he entered her warm, wet mouth. She flicked her tongue over the tip again, before taking him deeper.
“Fuuuuck…”
His legs went stiff. His grip got tighter on her head. He pounded into her a few more times, before shuddering, and filling her mouth with hot spurts. He grunted loudly, over and over. When there was nothing left, and he was fully satisfied, his body went lax. He stayed on the floor for several minutes. Gabi wiped her mouth and joined him.
“Good distraction technique.”
“Desperate times call for desperate measures.”
His brows pinched together in consternation. “Why are you protecting Lawrence?”
“I’m protecting you, not Lawrence.” She planted a gentle kiss on his lips. “We need to leave everyone else in the past, and focus on us. Eva and Lawrence have already caused enough trouble.”
“I agree.” He traced his finger along her bottom lip. “If you don’t inform the police, I won’t be responsible for my actions.”
“If Lawrence contacts me again,” she began, “then I’ll call them.”
He sat up, before standing. “Let’s go back to bed.”
She took hold of his outstretched hand. She had never needed sleep more.
Chapter Forty
Gabi neatened the pile of papers on her desk, and swivelled round on her chair. Peering out of the window, the sun warmed her face, and the clear, blue sky made her grin. Rising to her feet, she scanned the street below. People appeared happy and were strolling leisurely, instead of racing around. It was as if they too, were also appreciating the weather. She hoped it was still sunny when the weekend came. Turning back to her desk, she picked up her cup. She needed a coffee refill. Before she made her exit, Mallory entered.
“Hey, sweetie.”
“Hi, Mal. I’m about to make a drink. Want one?”
“Sure.”
Mallory followed her into the kitchen. Gabi added a coffee capsule to the machine and placed her cup under it. It vibrated noisily when she pressed the power button. As it boiled the water, she gave Mallory her full attention.
“How are you?”
“Tired.” She yawned. “We decorated the living room over the weekend.”
“Ooh nice. What colour?”
“Silver and black.”
“I bet it looks stunning.” Gabi removed her cup when the machine stopped, and added a new capsule. “I remember when I used to redecorate the house every year.” She laughed.
“You decorated regularly out of boredom.” Mallory’s brow rose. “Ours actually needed it. It’s been a few years.”
“Did I tell you Lawrence has been pestering me again?” Gabi set Mallory’s cup under the machine.
“No.”
“It’s like he wants me to be as miserable as he is.” She handed Mallory her coffee. “I told Darion, and I had to literally beg him not to do anything stupid.”
“Why?” Mallory blew over her hot drink. “You should have let Darion smack him one.”
She shook her head. “I can’t. Even though Lawrence probably does deserve it, a part of me will always feel sorry for him, no matter what.”
“You’re too nice for your own good, Gab.”
She downed some of her drink. As she watched Mallory over the rim of her cup, she saw a mischievous grin cross her face. Putting the cup down, she narrowed her eyes. “Why do you look like the-cat-that-got-the-cream?”
Mallory laughed lightly.
“Spill.”
“I’m pregnant.”
“Oh my god!” Gabi squealed, and then clamped a hand over her mouth, hoping the whole office didn’t hear. “Mal.” She stepped forward, and pulled her into a hug. “Congratulations. I’m so happy for you.”
“I didn’t think it would happen so soon.”
“I bet Steve is over the moon.”
“He is.”
“When did you find out?”
“This morning.”
“Have you told Suzie?”
“Not yet. You’re the first person I’ve told. I need to call my mom and dad too.”
“Wow.” Gabi was stunned.
“I know.” Mallory giggled. “Look at us! Suzie hasn’t got too long left, I’m pregnant, and you’ve got a stepson. I certainly didn’t expect this.”
“Looks like our nights partying at Sasha’s and going on shopping sprees will be replaced for nursery visits and walks in the park.” Gabi beamed before lifting her cup again.
“Everything okay between you and Gina?”
She nodded. “We’re a lot closer.”
“And Preston?”
“He’s adorable. Darion will be having him three nights a week.”
“Is he bonding with him better now?”
Gabi nodded. She drained the last of her drink, and left her cup in the sink. “Do you fancy doing something with Suzie over the weekend?”
“Sure.”
Gabi gave Mallory a little wave, and retreated to her office. She kicked off her grey Manalo Blahniks and dropped onto her chair. Her cheeks strained from grinning. She was pleased for Mallory and Suzie. They were all starting a new chapter in their lives: motherhood. Preston may not be her child, but she loved him as if he were. She couldn’t wait until she got pregnant one day. Darion had ditched the condoms, and she prayed they’d have a huge, loving family. She wanted to show Darion how happy childhood should be.
Speak of the devil, she thought, when her mobile buzzed on her desk.
“Hello.”
“Gabi…” the low, husky tone she loved hearing, that sounded provocative, filled the line.
“What are you up to?” she asked.
“I’m at Retox sorting some paperwork out.” She heard loud blowing, and knew he was smoking. “Am I seeing you tonight?”
“If you want. I’ve got dance class first though.”
“I’ll come to your place then.”
“Great.”
“Guess what?” She giggled. “Mallory’s pregnant,” she announced before he could speak.
“Another pregnancy? Is there something in the water?” he joked.
“I hope so,” she teased.
“Tell her I said congratulations.”
“I will.”
There was a moment of silence before Darion asked, “Do you remember that surprise I told you about?”
She stiffened, instantly expecting the worst. “Yes…” she said slowly.
“Pack your bags. And your passport.”
“Are we going away?” She sat up in interest, eager to hear more. Please let it be somewhere hot, with sandy beaches, clear sea, and where we can go exploring.
“We are.”
“Where?” She shook her head at his short answers, the teasing torturous.
“If I told you then it wouldn’t be a surprise.”
“Darion,” she sulked like a petulant child. “Give me a clue at least. Tell me I need to pack bikinis.”
“No bikinis.”
She slouched, feeling herself deflate.
“You’ll be naked the entire time,” his voice sounded wickedly devilish.
“So it’s somewhere hot then.” She paused. “When are we going? How long for?”
“Next week, for a week.”
It was short notice. Good job she was close with her boss, Phil, and knew it wouldn’t be difficult to get the time off.
“See you later…darlin’.”
“Bye.”
She put her mobile down, on the verge of bursting with excitement. The day was getting better and better. It was also productive. The hours fle
w by, and she managed to get everything ticked off on her ‘to-do’ list. She’d even had ten minutes spare to clear her email inbox.
After work, she strolled to The Royal Dance Academy. She was on cloud nine and believed nothing could ruin her mood. When she had changed into leggings, a crop top, and trainers, she joined her friends in class. The tutor arrived at the same time and greeted them. Gabi needed to kick off some of her pent-up energy. As soon as a hip-hop song began, she jumped up and down, working her muscles, whilst stealing glances at the bright sun. A whole week with Darion, no distractions, no drama, just pure unadulterated pleasure filled her with joy. She couldn’t wait.
***
Darion
Darion took another drag of his cigar, and dropped it into the ashtray. When he picked up his glass of whisky, he noticed his hands were trembling. Fuck! The ice cubes jingled in the glass as he downed some of the cool liquid. He wasn’t sure if he was coming down with something, but he felt hot under the collar. Finishing his drink, he unfastened two buttons on his shirt.
He’d spent the whole day at the office completing paperwork. He’d also held a staff meeting to ensure everything was running smoothly. It was. All of his employees seemed content. He’d then called his old employees, namely Lexi. He promised to pop into The Black Door and visit them all. He missed seeing them daily, but was glad they were only down the road.
Pushing himself up, he headed to the sink. Turning on the tap, he cupped cold water into his hands, and splashed his face. His stomach churned, and a feeling of nausea washed over him. He had to grip the side to stop his weak legs from giving way. What the fuck’s wrong with me? he scolded himself. His brain was swirling with worrying thoughts: his parents, Eva, Lawrence, his neglectful childhood, his crazy past. Straightening, he raked his hands through his hair. Get a grip, Darion.
Picking up his jacket and keys, he sauntered toward the bar area. Addilyn, Raina, and Derek were busy serving customers. The place was packed, and the music boomed. As he wove through the crowd, he received looks of admiration from both men and women.
“Daz.” An old client from The Black Door patted him on the back. “The bar is amazing. You still know how to throw a fucking party.” He threw his head back with a laugh. “I was here on Saturday night.”
“I missed it,” Darion said. “I’ll come to the next one.” He’d partied enough to last him a lifetime, although he supposed Gabi would probably fancy a good night out soon. They could get merry in the bar like they used to do. Maybe she could even give him a private lap-dance in the VIP booth, like she’d done before. He tugged at his shirt, the thought turning him on. There were so many fun, memorable times he’d had with her, and he couldn’t wait to experience more.
He was finally settled and at a happy place. Before, he used to have feelings of doubt, and worried he was missing out on things. Casual sex, different women, the playrooms, they all seemed like a million miles away. He couldn’t ever imagine trading Gabi and Preston for that lifestyle again. He’d been insecure with trust issues, and scared of his emotions, and now he felt free. Almost, anyway. Loving his girlfriend and son came naturally to him, although it was sometimes still difficult to express.
“Addy. I’m off,” he said, leaning over the bar slightly, to be heard over the rock tune.
“Okay.” She waved. “I’ll see you on Saturday.” She winked.
“You sure will.”
“Bye, Daz,” Raina rushed over, as she always did, flicking back her hair flirtatiously.
“See ya, darlin’.”
He nodded his head at Derek, and stepped out into the cool night air. Rolling his sleeves up, he casually strolled toward The Black Door. When he was standing under the violet glow cast on the street, he half smiled. Peering up at the window, he could make out the bar staff serving customers, and swaying to the music. He chuckled to himself, remembering his wild ways. The club had certainly made him the man he was. In a way, it had cured him. An insecure, broken young man had been lavished with attention, adored, and transformed into the mostly confident, ambitious man he was today. It was human to experience insecurities here and there, and it was expected, given his past. But as he glanced behind him, and could just about see Retox up the street, a queue eagerly waiting outside the door, he was overwhelmed with pride. His Audi, Jeep, and Yamaha R1 were lined up outside it. He owned his own apartment, and was paying for Gina’s home. He had money in the bank and he was more than comfortable. No matter how many people had tried to drag him down, and take everything away from him, he had succeeded. He would never give anyone the power to make him doubt himself ever again.
As long as Gabi continued to look at him with love, and like he was the only man on earth to be desired, he’d be fulfilled. He also couldn’t wait until the day when Preston was proud of him.
Jamming his hands into the pockets of his jeans, he entered the club. The atmosphere was as lively as ever. He tilted his head to see Wendy was spinning on the pole. Lexi was on the stage, half-naked, and teasing the crowd. Her red curls flew out behind her. Her lips were the same colour, blowing kisses to the front row.
He settled onto his old stool at the corner of the bar. Jasmine sashayed over, and instantly began pouring him a glass of whisky.
“How are you, Daz?” She thrust out her chest as she handed him his drink.
“Good. You?”
“Never better. It’s nice to see you.”
“You too.”
“Daz!” Marnie sprinted over, looking pleasantly surprised. “I didn’t know you were visiting.” She flung her arms around his neck.
“Thought I’d see how my girls were.” He winked playfully.
“How’s Gabi, Gina, and Preston?”
“They’re good.” He tipped his glass and finished his drink in several gulps. “Tiana upstairs?”
“Yeah.”
“What about Lennie and Trav?”
“They’re around somewhere.”
“Okay.” He pushed himself up. “I’ll be upstairs. Join me with Lex and Wendy when you’re done.”
“Sure.”
Darion wasn’t shocked to see the upstairs was just as busy. Carl was standing in the centre of the room, surrounded by beautiful women. As soon as he noticed Darion, he lifted his hand. Darion grinned at the crowd, recognising most of them. When he was before Carl, he shook his hand firmly.
“Daz, long time, no see.”
“Sure is.” He nodded at the women in acknowledgement. “The club’s doing well.”
“Oh it is. I love it here.” Carl laughed loudly. “I’m like a kid in a candy shop,” he said quietly into his ear. “Anyway.” He clapped his hands together. “I’ll meet you in the booth, and send some champagne over. I hear some celebrations are in order?”
“You could say that.”
Still grinning, Darion settled in a booth, reserved for VIPs. Tiana appeared from the ladies’ room and chatted with him for a short while. When a bartender placed a bucket of champagne and glasses before him, Tiana returned to managing the door. He glanced at his watch. He hadn’t realised how late it actually was. He made a promise to himself to have one drink, and then get a taxi to Gabi’s place.
When Carl eventually joined him, and filled him in on his experiences of the playrooms, Darion listened with interest. He stated Tara didn’t suspect a thing, and his marriage to her was actually stronger than ever. He believed he had the best of both worlds. Darion had known that feeling all too well. But he doubted Carl really loved Tara as strongly as he felt for Gabi, for if he did, he wouldn’t want anyone else.
When Lexi, Marnie, Wendy, Lennie, and Travis took a quick break to see him, it was like a little reunion. One thing he was ecstatic about was that he hadn’t bumped into Eva.
Chapter
Forty-One
Gabi
“Hello, you.” Gabi leant against the doorframe and grinned.
“Hey, baby.”
Darion entered the apartment and swept her up into a hu
g. She wrapped her legs and arms tightly around him. As their mouths crashed together, it was as if they hadn’t seen one another for days, not hours. She breathed in his sweet, masculine cologne, and threaded her fingers through his smooth hair. She tasted whisky on his tongue, but it didn’t deter her from deepening the kiss hungrily. He carried her into the living room, and she felt the cold wood of the table against her back as he lay her down. His lips trailed down her neck, chest, and stomach. Even though she was wearing a silk nightie, her skin tingled at his contact.
As he made his way back up her body at a leisurely pace, he took her nightie with him. It was slipped over her head, and she was naked. His lips were on hers again. He kissed her with so much passion and hunger, causing her body to strain toward his. They kissed until they were breathless, the pent-up sexual tension erupting.
When Darion tore away, he licked his lips, a naughty gleam appearing in his pupils. His gaze swept over every inch of her. He let out a low, evil chuckle. “I can’t get enough of you,” he told her.
“I feel the same about you,” she responded.
“I visited the club today.” He ducked his head before meeting her stare again.
Gabi waited patiently for him to continue.
“I thought maybe I would miss that lifestyle, but I was just running back to what was familiar because everything had changed so much. I really don’t miss it at all.”
“I’m glad to hear that.”
Darion began unbuttoning his shirt. As more of his smooth, tanned chest came into view, Gabi’s pulse quickened. When he unhooked it from his broad, muscular shoulders and let it drop to the floor, she inhaled air. He looked sensational. Sometimes she couldn’t quite believe he was her boyfriend, knowing he could have any woman he wanted.