White Lies

by Jenny Lynn

  “Yes, same friend,” I admitted.

  “Will we be able to meet him when we visit next week?”

  I bit my lip. Things were still so new with Nicholas, were we really at the stage where I should introduce him to my parents? At the same time I had met his family, so maybe it wasn’t a big deal. I decided I could casually mention it tonight and see how he reacted. “Maybe mom, we’ll see.”

  “Okay, well I won’t keep you I just wanted to make sure you were okay. In the future when there is a fire, flood, explosion or any type of disaster let us know you’re still alive,” she said. I laughed.

  “I will, mom, I promise.”

  “Can’t wait to see you,” she told me. “I love you.”

  “Love you too mom.” After I hung up I pulled the cord, we were approaching my stop. I got off the streetcar and rushed up the steps, turning the key in the lock. It felt good to be in my own space after being locked out, even if it didn’t compare to Nicholas’ home. I kicked off my shoes and got myself a glass of water, then headed to the bathroom where I quickly applied a bit of makeup, tossing my makeup bag into my purse. I didn’t wear a lot but liked to have a bit of mascara and lipstick on. After my touch up I headed to the couch with my books. I glanced at the clock and realized I had a few hours until Nicholas sent the car around. I pulled out my pen and notebook and lost myself in my studies. I was focused on an interesting case study when there was a knock at the door. My head shot up and I looked at the time, it must be the driver. I closed my books and picked up my bag, grabbing a few extra things from my room and shoving them inside in case I spent the night again. I opened the door and found a man standing outside.

  “Miss Taylor?” he asked. I nodded. “Mister Blackstone sent me,” he added.

  “Yes, thank you,” I told him, closing the door and locking up behind me. I followed him to the car idling at the curb and he opened the door for me, I slid in and he closed it behind me before walking around and getting in the driver’s side. I watched the city speed by as we wove our way through traffic, on the way to Nicholas’ building. Only we drove past the turn I knew led to his home, we continued down the street. I looked at the driver, puzzled, and he glanced back at me in the rearview mirror as if he could read my mind.

  “Mister Blackstone asked that I bring you to a different location,” he explained. That didn’t do anything to lessen my confusion.

  “Where is that?” I asked.

  “I wouldn’t deprive him of a surprise,” he said with a kindly smile. I sat back in my seat and shook my head, Nicholas clearly loved surprising me and I was just going to have to get used to it. We drove for a while then the driver slowed to a stop. I glanced out the window, we were at a Spanish restaurant called Torro, it was one of the best in the city. I thanked the driver after he opened my door and I stepped out. He replied with a nod. I walked towards the heavy, red painted doors and pulled them open. Soft acoustic music was playing in the background, the dim lighting and warm yellow walls making the space seem as if it was glowing. I approached the hostess who greeted me with a smile.

  “Is Nicholas Blackstone here?” I asked. She nodded then stepped away from the desk.

  “Right this way, please follow me,” she said. I walked behind her, past the tables of well dressed patrons enjoying their meals. I saw Nicholas seated at a table in the corner, he looked up from his phone as I approached and his smile warmed me to my core. He stood up and pulled my chair out for me, I sat down and he returned to his seat.

  “Hi, stranger,” I told him.

  “Hi right back,” he said. “How was your day?”

  “I was able to get my purse after class and get back into my apartment. My parents and my friend Tabitha were worried when they couldn’t reach me so I let them know I was okay. Then I did a bit of studying. How was your day?”

  “Fairly busy; it’s nice to be here with you now.”

  A waiter appeared by our side. “Would you like anything to drink this evening?” he asked. Nicholas picked up and scanned the wine menu.

  “Do you have any preference, Breanne?” he asked.

  “I’m fine with whatever you pick,” I told him. I didn’t know much about wine other than the fact that I liked to drink it.

  “We’ll have a bottle of the Shiraz,” he told the waiter, handing over the wine menu. The man nodded then walked away. I looked at Nicholas as the small candle on our table flickered, then around the space. There were large paintings on the walls, a heavy wooden bar in the corner and double doors leading to what I assumed was the kitchen in the back. It felt like we had been transported to a restaurant in Barcelona, or what I imagined restaurants in Spain must be like.

  “It’s beautiful here,” I told Nicholas.

  “I wanted to set the scene,” he told me. I looked at him, tilting my head and he continued. “I take it your restaurant won’t be opening this week?”

  “No,” I said. “When I stopped by today my manager wasn’t sure when we would reopen but he said he hopes it will be soon and will keep me posted. Why?”

  “Do you still want to go to Spain?” he asked. My eyes widened, was he serious?

  “What do you mean?”

  “I need to go to Spain tomorrow for business, but thought if you’re off work you might want to come with me for a few days.” I was speechless. A trip to Spain with Nicholas sounded incredible. Before I could answer the waiter returned with our wine. He uncorked the bottle and poured Nicholas a glass. He took a sip, nodded, then the waiter poured for me as well. When he left again I realized Nicholas was still waiting for my answer.

  “I’d miss a few classes, but how could I refuse something like that? I’d love to go with you,” I exclaimed, excitement in my voice.

  “I’m glad,” he said with a smile. “We can stop by your apartment after dinner so you can pack, then we can head to the airport from my place in the morning.”

  “You’re full of surprises, Nicholas,” I said. “I never know what you’re thinking.”

  “All you have to do, Breanne, is ask,” he told me, taking a sip of his wine. I watched him, toying with the stem of my glass.

  “What are you thinking right now?” I asked him. He stared at me from across the table, his pale eyes staring deep into mine.

  “I’m thinking about how meeting you is the best thing that’s happened to me in a long time,” he said calmly. I blushed and looked down at my hands.

  “I don’t see why, I’m nothing special Nicholas,” I admitted in a quiet voice. He reached across the table and took my hand in his.

  “That’s not true, Breanne,” he said. “You’re one of the most incredible women I’ve ever met.” He smiled and I felt my heart beat a bit faster. It was true I couldn’t see myself through his eyes, it was true that we both came from completely different backgrounds. But I couldn’t deny that there was something special between us, and that I was falling for him a bit more every day.

  14

  I woke wrapped in Nicholas’ arms, turning to look at his calm face as he slept. He looked peaceful and handsome, it was a sight I could easily get used to first thing in the morning. Gently I moved his arm and started to slide my legs out from under the sheets. I felt a strong hand grab my arm and pull me back against the mattress, Nicholas rolled over top of me and pinned me down under his body.

  “And where do you think you’re sneaking off to?” he asked me playfully. I giggled, trapped between his arms.

  “I was going to let you sleep and get ready before our flight,” I explained. He glanced at the clock then back at me.

  “We still have plenty of time,” he told me as he lowered his head and started to trail his lips along my collarbone. I sighed at the contact of his warm mouth against my skin.

  “What time is our flight?” I asked.

  “It’s whenever I want it to be,” he whispered in my ear, then nipped my lobe between his teeth. He moved his hips and I felt his heavy erection press against me. I sighed, suddenly deeply ar
oused and wanting him. He kissed my neck and I let my hands trail down his chest, reaching lower until my fingers brushed against his stiff member. He was rock hard, his skin hot to the touch. He groaned as my fingers wrapped around him then moved his head to cover my breast, capturing my nipple between his lips. He sucked on me, my breasts growing heavy and sensitive. He cupped me in his hand then started to trail his fingers down my chest, along my torso and between my legs. He ran his finger along my slit then looked at me in surprise.

  “I’ve barely touched you, Breanne, and you’re already wet for me,” he said, his voice taking on a husky edge as he looked down at my face. I blushed.

  “You turn me on,” I said, my voice catching as he slid a finger inside me.

  “Oh, I can tell,” his voice was a smooth purr as he gently pulled his finger out before plunging it back in. “You’re so soft and snug, I love being inside you.” He added a second finger and I moaned as he rubbed inside me. My legs were spread out under him and I licked my lips, my hands stroking along his thick shaft.

  “Please,” I asked, my voice small and needy. I writhed under his touch, wanting to feel filled by him.

  “First you try to sneak out of bed without me noticing, and now you want me?” he teased, continuing to slide his fingers in and out of me tortuously slow. I arched my back and he cupped my breast in his other hand, rolling my hardened nipple between his expert fingers. “You’re addictive, Breanne,” he said reverentially. “Your body is incredible, so sensitive and responsive.” He ran his thumb over my clit and I groaned, trembling beneath him, my sensitive tissues awakened by his touch.

  “Are you going to make me beg?” I asked, looking up at him through my lashes.

  “There are worse ways to start your day than having a beautiful woman beg you to be inside her,” he told me with a wink. I gasped as he pushed his fingers back inside me, his thumb still circling my clit.

  “I want to feel you in me, Nicholas,” I said, my voice raspy.

  In reply Nicholas angled himself against me, pushing the crown of his member into my soft opening. I threw my head back, enjoying the sensation of being spread open by him. I wrapped my legs around his hips as he gently guided himself into me inch by inch. He was long and thick. When he was finally up to the base I felt filled by him as he fit snugly into me. He gripped my hips and pulled slowly out, the pad of his thumb still rubbing my clit. He shoved back into me and groaned, moving steadily in and out.

  “You feel so good inside, Breanne,” he moaned as he pushed deep inside again. I could feel my body on edge, lost in the sensation of his touch and the delectable fullness inside me. I looked up at him as he continued, losing myself as we explored the pleasure we could get from each other’s bodies. I closed my eyes, my breathing becoming more rapid, and felt myself getting close. He knew just how to get me there, and this morning he was working quickly. I gasped, my mouth dropping open, my orgasm ripping through me radiating out from my core until I was trembling beneath him. I heard Nicholas growl; the sound was primal and masculine. Then he dropped his head and closed his mouth over mine with barely restrained force. My body was clenching rhythmically around him, my heart hammering in my chest and my head swimming as he slammed into me harder.

  Nicholas pumped his hips, shoving deep into me, as he chased his own climax. I opened my eyes and trailed my fingers along his strong back, struck by the burning intensity behind his eyes. Each long, smooth lunge speared deep inside me and soon he was breathing hard, biting his lower lip as he looked down at me. He groaned and I looked up at his face, entranced by the intensity of his desire and longing for me. I felt him quiver and he gripped my hips tightly.

  “My God, Breanne,” he moaned and with one rough thrust he emptied into me. He collapsed against me, his breathing rapid, and I brushed a damp strand of hair from his forehead, lifting my head to kiss his lips gently. He looked at me, his eyes suddenly betraying the gentle vulnerability of the moment, and he kissed me back wrapping me in his arms. We lay together, entangled, as we both regained our breath. I could feel his heartbeat, his chest pressed against my back, the rhythm steady and comforting. I closed my eyes and sighed against him.

  Nicholas nuzzled my neck. “Now that’s worth delaying our flight for.”

  “I can’t disagree,” I told him with a satisfied sigh. Nicholas kissed my shoulder and then stood up from the bed, pulling on a pair of black boxers.

  “I’m going to start some coffee for the drive,” he said, then headed out for the kitchen. I slid out of bed, feeling a gentle and not unwelcome aching between my legs. Nicholas had a high sex drive and I had no complaints. I went to the bathroom and freshened up, then got dressed. When I made my way to the kitchen there was a coffee waiting for me and Nicholas was dressed in dark jeans and a soft grey t-shirt reading the paper. Whether he was in a suit or his casual attire, he always looked incredible. He noticed me approaching and smiled, handing me a travel mug.

  “Mmmm, thank you,” I sighed as I took a sip.

  “The car is waiting for us downstairs, let me grab your bag and we can go.”

  “It’s okay,” I told him, pulling my small carry on luggage along with me. “I can manage.” Nicholas picked up his own bag, travel mug in his other hand and the newspaper tucked under his arm, then we headed for the elevator. Just like he said, a black car was waiting for us outside the doors. The driver got out and took our bags, placing them in the back as we got into the car. Once we were seated Nicholas’ phone began to ring, he glanced at it then an annoyed expression flashed across his face. “I need to get this,” he told me before answering. I nodded and he pressed it to his ear. “Liam, what can I do for you?”

  I only picked up bits and pieces of the conversation but it seemed tense. When Nicholas finally hung up he shoved his phone forcefully into his pocket. “Sorry about that,” he mumbled, seeming upset.

  “Is everything okay?” I asked. He sighed.

  “It’s my brother-in-law, Liam. He feels he should be accompanying me on this trip for an investor meeting. I think otherwise.”

  “Things seem tense between the two of you.”

  “That’s an understatement. I know he thinks he should have gained control of the company when my father died, but that’s not what happened and before I give him more control I need to believe that he accepts that I’m in charge. Everything he does lately is a power move and I’m sick of it.” His fists were clenched at his side, I placed my hand over his and rubbed gently. He looked over at me, his expression softening. “I’m not going to let him ruin our trip. Other than the meeting I’ll be all yours for a few days.”

  “I can’t wait,” I told him. “This is so exciting. I’ve always wanted to see Spain.”

  “I’ll make sure you have a memorable time,” he said, his hand opening and holding onto mine. The car pulled up a long strip, then past a security checkpoint as we approached a small aircraft. I got out of the car and followed Nicholas up the steps and into the plane while the driver retrieved our bags. I made my way over to a seat and set my bag down, looking out the window.

  “Are you still nervous to fly?” Nicholas asked me.

  “A little bit,” I admitted. “But after a helicopter ride I think this will be a walk in the park.”

  “You have an adventurous streak in you and this wonder about the world, I find it really captivating,” he told me. I smiled, touched by his compliment.

  “I guess you bring it out in me,” I told him. He took my hand and guided me out of my seat, I followed him. “Where are we going?” I asked. He led me into the cockpit.

  “Hi Charlie,” Nicholas said to the pilot. “Do you think Breanne could sit up here with you during takeoff?” I stared at Nicholas wide-eyed. Was he serious?

  “Nice to meet you, Breanne,” Charlie told me. “Have a seat, you can be my co-pilot.”

  I swallowed hard then took the seat beside him, my hands shaking slightly but a small thrill bubbling inside me. Nicholas kissed the top of my
head then went back to his seat.

  “Have you ever flown a plane before?” Charlie asked me as he started to press buttons. I shook my head. “Don’t worry, I’ll guide you through it. Here, flip this switch,” he told me. I did and the plane changed from a steady hum to a roar as the engines came to life. Charlie pressed a lever then nodded to the controls in front of me, identical to the ones in front of him. “Turn the wheel to the left slightly,” he said. I did and we turned, moving down the runway. We started to pick up more speed as Charlie spoke on the radio, then moved forward faster. “Breanne,” he said, over the roar of the engine, “when I say now I want you to pull up on the controls.”

  My heart was pounding in my chest, I looked over at him and nodded. I couldn’t believe this was happening. We moved faster and faster down the runway, whipping past the posts, when Charlie nodded at me. “Now, Breanne.” I pulled up and the wheels left the ground with a bump. I gasped as we rose steadily into the air, the small aircraft shaking and wobbling from side to side, until Charlie grabbed the controls in front of him and steadied our ascent. The ground was moving farther away below us, buildings and cars shrinking, as we lifted into the sky. We pushed through the clouds, the view spectacular stretched out in front of me and beams of sunlight breaking through the thick patches of white. It was an incredible sight that left me speechless. Once we broke through the clouds we levelled out, Charlie turned to me with a warm smile.

  “You did great, Breanne,” he told me. I smiled, my heart racing in my chest.

  “Thank you,” I replied. “That was unbelievable.”

  “Anytime,” he said. “You’re welcome to stay up here with me or head back to sit with Mister Blackstone.”

  “I think I’ll head back,” I told him, unclipping my seatbelt. I left the cockpit then went through the door, back to where Nicholas was seated. He grinned at me as I approached.