His Price - Leah Holt

HIS PRICE A BILLIONAIRE ROMANCE

Leah Holt Copyright © 2016 Leah Holt All rights reserved. HIS PRICE: A BILLIONAIRE ROMANCE is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Table of Contents Copyright Page His Price: A Billionaire Romance Connect with Leah! Also from Leah Holt: A Peek Into The Future Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six Chapter Seven Chapter Eight Chapter Nine Chapter Ten Chapter Eleven Chapter Twelve Chapter Thirteen Chapter Fourteen Chapter Fifteen

4/409

Chapter Sixteen Chapter Seventeen Chapter Eighteen Chapter Nineteen Chapter Twenty Epilogue About Leah Holt Connect with Leah! Also from Leah Holt:

Want to know when Leah's books are releasing or on sale? Click Here to Join Leah's Mailing List

Connect with Leah! Facebook- www.facebook.com/ LeahHoltAuthor

Also from Leah Holt: CHAINED: A Bad Boy Romance SLAM: A Bad Boy Romance Come Home Bad Boy

A Peek Into The Future Hegan brought his lips just above my collarbone, barely touching my flesh; but breathing heavy enough so I could feel him there. He forced his presence onto my skin, goosebumps jetting up instantly. My arms hung by my sides, limp and motionless. I knew it was wrong for me to want him this way, this badly. My head tried to push the pause button, halt the feelings floating up into my body. But I couldn't stop it. Gripping my wrists, he pulled them into his chest. My fingers rested gently against his hardened muscles, slowly dragging over each mound. Dipping into the creases and trailing

9/409

down to his abs, his skin was smooth steel, firming with my touch. My body had betrayed me, quivering to his mouth as it laid a gentle kiss against my throat. I should have been resisting him, instead I molded into his form. Feeling his lips, soft and heated across the small piece of bare skin; my head fell back, eyes closing tight. “You taste sweet, Babe.” His tongue danced up my neck, reaching my jaw line. “Now I'm wondering how your mouth tastes.” Pressing his lips firmly onto mine, his tongue pushed deep inside my mouth. And I did what I never expected I would. I kissed him back, swirling my tongue around his. Heat melded my body, mixing with a raw desire. It swept from my head down to my toes, pooling in the fire growing between my thighs. What the hell am I doing? What is he doing to me?

10/409

This was so out of character for me, so far from the person I was. I felt like Copper had cemented her grip around my soul, driving me into the life I had been hiding and fading into. But I didn't want to stop, I didn't want him to stop.

Chapter One Noella My lips puckered up, plump and firmed. Twisting the Marilyn rouge lipstick, I spread it thick across the parted flesh. Forming a soft circle, I ran my fingers down the edges, crisping up the trim. I stared at myself in the mirror, lights popping off the sides, the thumping of bass ringing in the background, and with my mask complete I was ready to take the stage. My name's Copper; well, it is to everyone in here anyway. It's my stage name and I was labeled that my first day at work. Gloria, the owner, couldn't remember my name. I guess the deep red hair with orange highlights cued her to call me Copper.

12/409

And well, it just kind of stuck. In the real world I'm Noella, and yes, I was a Christmas baby. I've been working at Tigress for a few months now, starting off as a cocktail waitress, then graduating to stripper. The money I earned only serving drinks wasn't cutting it. Every night I would see all the other girls leaving with three times as much as I'd made in tips. Gloria let me give the stage a try, and... I've been the star act ever since. The beaded curtain behind me jingled. “Copper, you're up,” Fionna said. She's been working here for a couple of years, I guess you could call her a veteran to the trade. A small girl, with long brown hair, and a body to die for. Honestly, I couldn't tell you what part of her is still real. She's had her boobs done, a nose job, lipo, and I'm pretty sure she's even

13/409

had ass implants too. Now, I wouldn't go saying that on record, but I don't think her ass happened naturally. “Thanks, I'll be right out.” Slipping my feet into the five inch high, blue pumps, I stood and took one last glance in the mirror. The tight, white bikini top had a large bow dressing the center; a mini skirt, the same shade of white, had a matching bow perched just above the crease of my ass. How much longer will I need to do this? Tugging on my skirt, the lower part of my cheeks hung out. I lifted my hands up and shifted my breasts inside the small top, cleavage peeking up over the edge, the subtle flesh a perfect draw for the eye. Being a stripper wasn't on the top of my list as far as professions go, but it was the money I needed. Not that I had much of a choice anyway. When you owe a debt like I

14/409

did, it didn't really matter where the cash came from. So long as I had it to give. Exhaling a deep breath, I turned and walked through the curtain. The small beads felt cool against my hot skin, chilling my spine as they trailed up my back. The blaring music fell to a hush, the loud voices turned to whispers. With a slow blink my mind went into a trance, ready to play my role as Copper. As the lights dimmed across the stage, my song began to play. Elongating my legs, I walked as tall as I could. Each limb extended by the magic of my heels. I wasn't exactly spoiled in terms of height, standing at five foot two; the extra help was a perk. My body swayed to the beat, fingertips following the deep curves of my hips. Dipping at the knees, I pushed them open. Thrusting my hips forward, my hands rode

15/409

the inside of my thighs, gently caressing the delicate flesh. Every jaw around the stage fell down, gaping open. Loud grunts and yelps played over the music. I didn't want to admit it, but I was good at my job, making every guy's cock swell with desire. Standing slowly, I turned towards the long brass pole, the icy metal hit my palm as I spun around in a single twirl. Popping the rivet to my top, my breasts spilled out, nipples hard as diamonds from the gentle breeze. Gripping the bar over my head, I glided it down the center of my back. My free hand squeezed one of my breasts, and that's when the green began to fly. The bills rained over the stage, every set of eyes frozen on my masquerade. The men hollered loudly, breaking the sound barrier, screaming for more.

16/409

And I would, I would give them what they wanted. Sliding across the floor on my belly, I rolled onto my back. Clenching my breasts, I ground up into the air, running my hands over my stomach. Fingering the lace trim of my panties, I pulled them up tight. The soft silk formed around my pussy, taking shape, my lips emerging beneath. The one thing that gave me some comfort working here was that you didn't have to go full nude; it was an option, but not enforced. Some of the girls chose to, but that wasn't for me. I often thought that was why I tended to make more money than them; I left something to the imagination. I wanted to keep some piece of myself just for my eyes; and if it felt right, for the man of my choosing. Tits are one thing, and don't get me wrong, I did bring it close to the line, but I never bared all the goods.

17/409

As my song came to an end, I gathered up my earnings. The men around the stage yelled for an encore. Smiling, I said, “See you guys next weekend.” Winking softly, I exited to the back. “Very nice, Copper. Another profitable evening I presume?” Fionna flipped up a purple wig, adjusting it to frame her face. Shifting on her heels, she slid into her dress. “Yeah, it was alright.” I stuffed the bills into my locker and walked over to my vanity. “Alright? Looks like you did pretty well, as usual.” Her tone fell short, peering at me through her mirror. This was a cut throat business, and when a newcomer, like myself, steals the show, most girls didn't care for it. Rolling my eyes, I freshened up my mascara and changed outfits. It was time to walk the floor. This was where I made most of my money, but it was my least favorite.

18/409

The guys always got too handsy, and if you weren't up front with the rules, things could get messy. I hated how they all thought that we, dancers, were there for the taking. I'm not a hooker. I'm a dancer. Period. That's why I preferred the stage. I was in control, no hands running up into places I didn't want them to go. You played with yourself, got their attention and their money, that was it. If I had a dollar for every guy that thought I would suck his cock, I wouldn't have to work here anymore. The way I figured it, right now I didn't have a choice; until my debt was paid, I was stuck. Sliding into a tight red dress, I swapped out my heels for the clubs standard, clear spiked platforms. “Out on floor I go,” I said, tossing Fionna a quick smile.

19/409

Her lips pursed tight, a single brow arched. “Mm hm.” She huffed under her breath. Standing at the feeble attempt for a door, I couldn't help but feel like I was walking into a seventies porn. They really need to do something about this. These beads are fucking ridiculous. I thought it was bad enough the place was decked out with furry rugs under the tables, multicolored lights flickering in the empty spaces around the walls, and the scent of cheap cologne mixed with dirty man juice clinging to the air. If Gloria would just put a little more money into the place, it'd bring in much better business. The club was pretty packed tonight; making my way around a few booths, I strolled through the room, looking for a decent guy. I tried to stay clear from anyone who looked shady.

20/409

My definition of shady: Any man who is currently jerking off, or carrying a towel. Those are the types I stayed away from; the thought of watching some old greasy man whack off in front of me made me cringe. Scanning the crowd, I noticed a lone guy tucked off in the back corner. He was leaning back in his chair, hand rested on a glass of liquor, just watching his surroundings. His mouth was taut, hair slicked back with a single strand dangling in front of his eye. Alright, let's give him a try. He looks innocent enough. My heels clicked against the hard cement floor; smoothing the front of my dress, I brushed my hair over my shoulder. “Hi there, I'm Copper. You interested in a dance?” “Does it look like I want a dance?” His deep voice sent chills through my body.

21/409

“Well, aren't you cranky. Maybe I can help loosen you up?” I ran a single finger over his shoulder as I circled behind him. “I promise you'll enjoy yourself.” He was wearing a tight white t-shirt, muscles etched out beneath the fabric, ink sheathing one arm. A pair of jeans with a slight tear in the upper thigh covered his legs. He was certainly built hard. Squeezing his shoulders, I blew hot air over his lobe. Clutching my wrist tight, he yanked me forcefully back around front. “Hey! No touching!” I yelled. From the corner of my eye, the bouncer cocked his head up. Greg was great at his job. He always walked each one of us out to our cars at the end of the night and kept a watchful eye over us while we were on the floor. Nodding to him that I was fine, his muscles relaxed and Greg leaned back against the wall.

22/409

“Sorry, Sweetheart. But I can't see you back there.” He brought the glass to his lips, twirling his finger in a circle. “What?” I asked sternly, holding my arms out. “Spin around for me. I'm not going to pay for what I haven't seen yet.” His hand fell down to his lap, hips shifting in the seat. Really? Spin for him? I thought, as if I was some piece of jewelry he was going to adorn for the evening. Lifting my hands to my hips, I spun, shaking my curves. A little treat for my evening boss; if he was going to pay. “Like what you see? I can be yours for a little while.” “That depends. Can you keep your hands off me?” His lip curled up, teeth displayed, glistening under the lights. “The rules are you don't touch me. But I can touch you, where ever and however I want.” My bright red lips pulled up, heart shaped and matching my dress.

23/409

I could see his eyes; they didn't look like the typical ones that imagined fucking me as I stood there. His were reading me, looking over my body and studying me. Butterflies shot through my belly, my nerves sparked with electricity. What the hell? Stop it, Noella! You can't get excited over a customer! I didn't know where these feelings had boiled up from. He was just another guy, here at the strip club, only to get off in some way. No different than anyone else; that's why they all came here. “I can't promise I won't try and grab that sweet ass of yours,” he said, biting his lower lip. “Those are the rules. I can go find someone else. There are plenty of men here to choose from.” He pulled a large roll of money from his pocket. “I have a lot of time on my hands, do you have the time for me?”

24/409

“Look, Buddy, money talks to some of these girls and they don't give a fuck what you do to them. I can go get one of them right now if that's what you're looking for. But I just dance, that's it. I'm not a whore.” Folding my arms over my chest, one leg shot out to the side. His stare fell from my face to my leg, eyes walking over the bare skin, tongue running across his bottom lip. “Fair enough, then dance already,” he said, jerking his head up to the ceiling. If this guy even tries to lay a finger on me, he's going to end up with my heel in his face. Closing my eyes, I listened to the sounds filling the room. Rocking my hips, I gyrated towards him, letting the music fill my body, rolling to its beat. I placed my hands on his shoulders, pussy swaying against his pants. Most of the men I'd danced for talked while I was working. They would tell me I

25/409

looked beautiful, how I had a nice body, anything to try and get me to go a step further. I waited for this stranger to do the same, but he didn't. Annoyance started to fill my gut; he was sitting motionless, no words crawling out over his tongue. “You have a name?” I asked. Bending over in front of him, I ran my hands up over my ass, pushing the fabric up towards my back. “Does it matter?” His palm rested on the table, fingers spread wide. His free hand rolled the wad of cash aimlessly. “I was just asking. But fine, sit there like a mute. Doesn't matter to me.” Whipping my hair around, I peered at him over my shoulder. “It's Hegan.” Pulling a five dollar bill from his roll, he tucked it into the diamond cut out on the small of my back. “How about you just dance and if I have a question I'll ask you.”

26/409

“My god you're a prick, huh?” Turning to face him, I slid a leg over his lap, grinding down. I could feel his cock, enlarged and bulging through his jeans. Well he can't say he's not turned on. I tried not to laugh out loud, but a slight giggle escaped my lips. “What?” he asked, muscles twitching around his brow. “Nothing, I'm just glad to know you're at least enjoying this.” Smiling brightly, I got pleasure from his arousal. Pressing down onto his lap, the warmth of my panties surprised me. I never got turned on at work; I tried hard to stay focused but this guy had started to soak me from the inside out. The wetness had begun to coat my thighs, my clit swelled to the forming mass beneath me. Pushing off of his lap, I stepped back, my eyes wide and confused over the desire he was driving into my core. Gazing at the

27/409

dampened flesh of his arms, I saw the sweat trickling over his temples. I had the urge to drag him in the back and let him have his way with me. Alright, settle down. Focus! Focus! He's a customer, don't let him pull you in. “What's wrong? Feel something you like?” His grin widened as his hand gripped the bulge between his legs. “Stop it, this dance can end right now.” Nervously I ran my fingers through my hair, my breathing intensified as my ribs stretched to their limits. He was making me nervous as hell, and honestly... I enjoyed it. His eyes froze on me, their deep green color almost black under the lights. I watched his jaw cock out to the side, making him look like he was cut from steel. His muscles pulsed, shirt contracting around each hardened arm as they thickened.

28/409

Suddenly, I felt like he was dancing for me. The way his body shifted in the chair, hard-on pinned against his jeans, sent me into overdrive. “Hey, you're the one who set the rules; I'm doing just as you asked. Sitting here, not touching you. I can't stop you from seeping all over my leg. But I'm not surprised; you're not the first woman to cream from just touching me.” This guy thinks he's God's gift to the world, and I'm the one losing control. I didn't need his money, there were other men to dance for. I wanted to just turn and walk away, but my feet felt heavy as cement, legs weak at the knees. He was fucking hot as hell and not like any of the other guys that strolled in here. I only saw guys like him during a bachelor party, the rest of the time it was gross perverts, looking to get laid, or as close as they could to it.

29/409

“What? Nothing to say? Come on, babe, finish the dance already, before I get bored.” Palming his erection, he draped his tongue over his teeth. I sat in silence for longer than I had realized. “Fuck you,” I hissed through my lips. “I can tell you want to, you're just as hot between those thighs as the air in this dump. But you said no touching, remember?” He wants to play, huh? I'm going to make him want me so bad it hurts. Then I'll leave him hard and solo. Hegan was trying to challenge me; I'd seen it before. The way he slouched in his chair, cock pressing against his zipper, a shit eating grin on his face; he was used to being in charge. But I was going to teach him a lesson. Not every woman would crumble to his poison. Digging my palms into my ribs, I pulled them up to my breasts, squeezing them

30/409

together, the warmed flesh spilled over the seams. Walking closer to him, I leaned in, his nose inches from my mounds; parting my lips I exhaled across his cheek. The heat hit his skin and I watched him shudder. Hegan's movement was subtle, but I caught it. The shock moved from his head to his legs, hips twitching against the seat. Slipping my thumbs beneath the silk straps, I peeled them away from my shoulders, his eyes frozen on my body. My large plump breasts spilled from beneath the fabric, bouncing in front of his face, nipples grazing the stubble of his jaw. I knew he was getting dragged in, trapped in my web of seduction. It seemed he had forgotten that in this world, I was the master of illusion, the goddess of ecstasy. I was paid to make men imagine their wildest dreams. And I was fucking good at it.

31/409

His chest rose quickly with the burst of skin, fingers tightening around the seat; I watched his knuckles drain to white. “You like that, don't you?” My eyes rode the muscles of his chest down to his cock. “Yeah, I can see you do. But that measly five dollar bill isn't going to cut it, Sweetheart.” Forcing my tits together, I dragged my tongue over one nipple. “Honestly, you're lucky you even got as much as you did.” Hegan flipped three hundred dollar bills out, slipping them in the crease of my breasts. “Happy?” He seemed so unfazed, tossing the money like it meant nothing. That was more than most men came in here with. And by the look of it, he had plenty more where that came from. What the hell does he do for work? It can't be legal, or he's just trying to play the part like the rest of us in here.

32/409

He looked young, in his twenties. Too young to be carrying that kind of cash. And he certainly wasn't dressed like he was loaded. If we did get a guy in here who had a large bank account, you knew it. The limo would be parked outside, they would be dressed in a tailored suit, hair fixed just right to their skull. Those types screamed- “I'm rich and have some extra to play with tonight.” That was not Hegan. Twisting my back to him, I said, “It'll do for now.” Flashing a quick smile, I bent down. Dragging my nails up the back of my legs, my dress sliding up to show my ass. “Well, that's all you're getting. Unless...” Hegan fanned out the money. “You want to take this little party elsewhere?” “Didn't I cover that already? I told you I dance, that's it. I'm not a prostitute.” Flipping my hair back, I shot him a glare.

33/409

“Well, you could have fooled me.” Huffing loudly, I whipped around. My large heels entangled each other; losing my balance I almost fell to the floor. Hegan jolted forward and his firm arms caught me in the air. Wrapped tightly in his grip, my stomach began to twirl; wild fire and battery acid crept up my throat. Dipping my fingertips into his muscles, I felt his rock hard chest. The sudden urge to kiss him radiated through my brain. What the hell am I thinking?! Stop! Get a damn grip! “Thanks,” I said, pressing against his chest to sit up. “I just saved your life, you owe me now.” Hegan smiled a devilish grin, eyes fixing on the exposed bare flesh, hard-on in his pants shoving into my lower back. Jumping from his lap, I scrambled to pull my dress up over my chest. “I'm done here.” I snapped at him, storming off. Taking one

34/409

last look over my shoulder, I saw Hegan sitting with a shit eating grin painted on his face. He was a prick. A royal fucking prick, who thought any girl would be lucky to get a piece of him. If he chose to give it. How could he just expect that I was going to roll onto my back and let him fuck me? I wasn't that kind of girl. And I never would be.

Chapter Two Hegan I think I found her. The one I'm going to make mine. Copper. She was a fire cracker, a hot spark burning at the core. Her long red hair, the curls that twisted up to her scalp. I wanted to wrap my fingers inside, tug at the strands till her mouth screamed for me to fuck her. She was perfect, exactly what I needed. Those plump red lips, shaped so elegantly like a perfect heart, the heat that shot off her tongue with confidence. I wonder how they would look draped over my cock? Would her tongue twist and turn as tightly as her curls? Would she let

36/409

me pull her hair till her neck couldn't bend anymore? That's all I wanted to do, and it took all I had to not try then and there. My cock stiffened just imagining her ass again. The way she bent over, touching her toes with ease. She was flexible and I wanted to wrap those legs up around her ears, slam my dick deep into her pussy till she was numb all over. Copper was going to help keep my world running; she had to. I wasn't giving her a choice. If she didn't do what I needed her to, I would lose everything. And I wasn't about to do that. I won't do that. Closing the door to my silver Porsche, I revved the engine. Turning out of Tigress, I made my way down Thames street. The road was lifeless, no other cars were in sight. Hopping onto Route four, I pushed the engine

37/409

hard, my heel hitting the floor, speed climbing with each shift of the throttle. The pounding of my chest matched the hand rising on the dial; fifty, sixty, seventy miles an hour, and still going. Every breath was filled with excitement and cold oxygen as it purged through my body, turning my veins to ice. I loved driving fast. The feel of the air in my face and the power under the hood; it was the next best thing to a good fuck. I guess you could say I chased the rush, and it'd been that rush I kept grabbing for. That feeling, the moment your veins harden and you think they might just pop beneath the surface. I couldn't get enough. I had my fair share of issues with street racing and the cops. But, when you're a twenty-five year old guy and son of a billionaire, people know who you are. Which helped multiple times to get me out of a shitty situation. It only took that one phone

38/409

call— my dad had the best lawyers— I never spent more than an hour in the holding cell. And as far as a record goes, that didn't exist either. Money talks and my family had plenty of it. It also helped that my dad wouldn't stand to have our name corrupted or tainted with any rash decisions I made. It would look bad for the company, and especially bad on him. A man with his power should have a son that bears the same respect and reserve that he does. The problem was... I didn't and I never would. I wasn't a suit wearing jackass, who spent more time in the office than enjoying life's pleasures. What kind of life would that be? All desk and paperwork with no pussy? No thank you. My father loathed who I was and what he thought I'd become, I was pretty much sure of that now. After the news he'd given me, it was cemented in my head.

39/409

He hated me. Which is probably why he had dropped a fucking bomb on me a few months back, also on my fucking birthday. “Hegan, it's time you start thinking about your future. Your legacy.” My father's words had sent chills across my spine. I was an only child, an only child who was going to inherit a shit load of fucking money. Enough to last me three lifetimes. Legacy? I wasn't sure what he was getting at, but he didn't sugar coat it much more than that. He swirled his wine, inhaling the aroma, a gentle sip spilled into his mouth. My father had gone on to say, “You need to do something with yourself. You can't spend life just walking around on air. I didn't work this hard for you to eat up everything I made. I want a grandchild, Hegan. And if you don't have an heir for me, you're cut from it all. You will get nothing further from me. Nothing.”

40/409

Happy birthday to me, right? A fucking kid! He expected me to have a kid! That was something I'd never thought of. I eat pussy like it's a buffet for one; I loved women, all women. And he wanted me to give him a grandchild! I couldn't believe he had the balls to ask me for that. At first I'd thought he was joking. A guttural laugh exploded from my throat; my head had fallen back; a hand came down and slapped against my thigh. He can't be serious! I thought. It wasn't until he showed me the legal papers from his lawyer, the papers that had me locked out from everything if I didn't produce a child soon; that's when I knew he was serious. This hadn't been a sick joke, or a wild ruse to get me to find a job. He was sitting stone still, eyes firm as concrete, lips thin as a single sheet of paper.

41/409

And my mother, she stared at the floor, breathing in imaginary gasps of water. Her throat gurgled with each swallow, fingers trembling in her lap. My jaw had dropped, heart racing with disbelief. How could he do this to me? How could he place this weight on my shoulders? The papers made it clear. I was to give an heir to the family. If I didn't then my piece of the company would become owned by his lawyer, his best friend. His dick of a lawyer, Gerald, would be in charge of everything that was meant for me. And I would be left picking up scraps and with no more access to the funds. It was wrong! An unfair request- no, demand- of your own son, the only son. I remembered the blood in my veins turning rancid, the wave of electricity rocking my core. Yelling at him from across the table, I called him an asshole, a piece of shit

42/409

who decided to throw this on me before I was ready. He didn't have the right to force me to give him an heir. It was insane! Throwing my hands up, I'd jolted from the seat, the chair crashing to the floor. Every eye in the restaurant had turned on us. That was the only time my mother spoke; she pleaded for me to relax, and told me I was making a scene. A scene. I had just been told I was supposed to have a child or lose everything. What the fuck did she think I was going to do? Take it with a smile and a nod? My father had always wanted me to be a spitting image of him, but I wasn't. He expected me to go to college, become a partner, and eventually take over the company. Those were the dreams he had for me, but did he ever ask me once what I wanted? No.

43/409

Not at any point did he ever take the time to see what I wanted to do with my life. He never asked me what I loved to do or even noticed how much I enjoyed racing. I tried to show him, asked him to go to the races and up to the drag strip in New Hampshire. He always just huffed about how it was nonsense, a brainless activity a monkey could do. I didn't want to be tied down; I wasn't made for that. How could he do this to me? To his own flesh and blood? There were millions of women in this world. How the hell was I supposed to choose just one? I wanted to taste them all, every last one I could slam my dick into. After he threw that on me I stormed out of the restaurant, and I didn't go home for two days. A part of me had been afraid that if I saw him before I cooled down I would do

44/409

something I might regret. The rest of me just wanted to indulge myself in pussy, a lot of pussy. I wasn't sure how much longer I'd have that freedom, before it got ripped out from under me. Studying the papers, I read them over and over. They had the date he expected an heir by, but he'd forgotten something. Something very important... The girl. That's when I realized the answer was dangling in front of my face. I was the son of a billionaire; I hadn't had any trouble finding a girl yet; what difference would this make? Getting what I wanted, that came easy to me. I was sure I could find a woman to buy, keep her for myself till she gave me a child. I could pay any amount of money for the woman of my choice; I wasn't cut off just yet. I started scouting local bars, strip clubs, any place I thought I could find the right woman who would fit the bill. She needed to be

45/409

willing to do anything for cash. Those women were a dime a dozen; I didn't think it would be that hard. But, Copper... She had caught my eye. Her perfect tits screamed for me to suck them when she fell in my lap; I had come close to driving my lips down hard. They were perked up and inviting, ready for my teeth to nibble, for my fingers to pinch. I did find one thing strange; she had panties on. Not many strippers hid their cunts from paying eyes. At least none of the ones I'd ever been around. But she was covered up the best she could. The thin fabric, tucked between her ass cheeks, tightly molding around her wet pussy, trying to hide the hot cunt beneath. I was tempted to flick her thong to the side, trail my finger up the center. But she wasn't ready for that. Not yet anyway.

46/409

Copper had tried to keep herself calm, but she couldn't fool me. Her dampened panties against my thigh told me I had turned her on. Even in the darkness of the club, the small wet spot in the center of the cloth caught my eye, shining as brightly as if I was holding a spotlight. I was surprised at how much she teased my cock without a touch of her skin. The instant those long legs spread over my lap, my dick jumped and my heart beat in my throat. She was the complete opposite of what I thought I needed, and that just pulled on me stronger. She wasn't easy by any means. I didn't know how many women I had been through in my search, but all of them were willing to give themselves to me before I had time to blink. Not her though. Money didn't swoon her; she went unfazed by the wad of cash I pulled out. It wasn't until my cock pressed into her back

47/409

that I saw the excitement in her rocket into a fear. I wanted her to grab it, squeeze it between her slender fingers. Instead, she left me sitting with a full hard-on and surprise in her eyes. Copper was going to be a challenge and I fucking loved a good challenge. But in the end, I always got what I wanted. I was positive I had found the woman who would give me a child. A child to keep my bank open, and my name in the family. Pulling up to the large wrought iron gate, I typed in the code, and the massive metal swung open to let me in. As I drove up the long driveway, our mansion came into view. Each window was lit with a small candle; Christmas wreaths centered each blank space of brick. Merry fucking Christmas, Hegan. You found what you're looking for. Chuckling to

48/409

myself I parked the car out front. Climbing the marble steps, I noticed the smooth surface was slicked over by a thin layer of ice. Carefully, I made my way to the door, trying not to slip. The butler, Stefan, opened the door to my arrival. “Good evening, Sir,” he said. “Hello, Stefan,” I said, cracking a wide smile. He glared at me, his brows dipping into his nose. I had to say his name with an accent. He always shot me a sideways glance, but I couldn't help myself. The man was so fucking uptight. Stefan had been our butler for a little over two years now. And do you think I've ever seen him chuckle? Nope. He always stood still as a fucking stump, back straight, head held high. “Late night again, Sir?” he asked, arching an accusatory brow. “Yup, sure was. See you tomorrow afternoon, Stefan.” Flicking his tie, I tugged my

49/409

shoulders back as I smiled and made my way up to my room. Glancing over my shoulder, I watched him adjust his uniform. Stefan didn't care for me much, from what I could tell. Maybe I busted his balls a bit more than I should, but the guy was so dull. He followed my dad around like a lost puppy, ready and waiting to feed him lines of agreement with anything he said. I tried relentlessly to get any type of rise out of him. From his first day here, he just looked at me like I was below him. His beady little eyes, and lines that ran across his forehead would stay flat. Stefan had the personality of a fucking paper bag, stiff and bland. I bet if I ever became his boss, he'd probably quit. I understood he was at work and took his job seriously, but come on... He never even cracked the slightest smile. I didn't even think he knew how. He's not human.

50/409

Over the years, we had multiple butlers and maids. These people were paid to be here, to bend over backwards for all my family's requests. Life had been boring, you never did anything without the watchful eye of some stranger. I was used to it now, but I hated every second of it. Flopping down face first onto my king sized bed, I felt the massive wall of pillows crashing onto my back. Grumbling under my breath, I knocked them to the floor. I never understood the meaning of decorative pillows, and no matter how much I complained, the maids constantly stacked them up elbows deep. It was ridiculous, all for show and no function. I mean honestly, what purpose did they serve? One time I'd tried to protest them. I was twelve and tore the pillows to shreds, the

51/409

feathers flew around filling the room. It was one hell of a mess for the maids to clean up, they pulled them from the vents for weeks after. I was sure the pillows would have disappeared after that, and did they? Nope. The very next day my bed was riddled with twice as many. I can say for sure I hate pillows with a passion. I know it seems like a bizarre item to despise, but when your life has been filled with little options for you to choose, pillows are a big deal. As I sank into the mattress, Copper sat like a hefty meal in my gut. Her skin was a cream I wanted to drink, her legs looked endless, and I wanted them wrapped firmly around me. She wasn't going to give in very easy, but I wasn't going to give her any option to get out. My time was running out, I had to get this done, get an heir to keep my place in the

52/409

books. I tried relentlessly to convince my mother to change my dad's mind, but she claimed her hands were tied; there was nothing she could do. If she went against my father's wishes, he'd leave her with nothing too. They had an agreement, a pre-nup that put me in the middle. My mother had gotten pregnant with me when she was young. That hadn't been in my dad's plans, no child was going to get in the way of his career. But here I was, a lone son, in a corporate world. It was like I was a part of his job, a piece of his work. My father had treated me like a damn sales objective for as long as I could remember. And now, I'm the main goal to be set straight. Copper... I wonder what her real name is? Shaking my head, I knew it didn't matter. Her real name was irrelevant. I only needed her pussy and my cock.

53/409

That was it. The rest... I didn't need to give a flying fuck about, it wasn't important. But, how? How was I going to convince this woman to do what I wanted? She didn't even recognize me, the son of the wealthiest man in the state. My father's picture was in the newspaper daily, all of the charities he donated to, job opportunities he provided the smallest state in the country. There was even a huge billboard with his picture on it, and people said we looked a lot alike. I don't remember the last time I wasn't recognized. I'm Hegan Alexander, son of Brandon Alexander, CEO of Alexander Oil. Even going to the grocery store, women followed me around, taunting me with indulgent offers. And for what? Money... It always came down to my wealth. Grabbing my cell, I flipped through the site for the club.

54/409

'Girls! Girls! Girls! Your dream, your wish, we'll get you what you want. No request is too wild for our taste. All you have to do is ask Gloria.' My mind started to whirl, I needed to get her. And keep her, just for me. But could I do this? Do it this way? Would any girl really give her body in such a way for money? I had to try, had to give it a chance at least. The women I'd met on my own, at the clubs and local hot spots, they were all too eager. And even though I thought that was what I needed and wanted, I turned them all away, told them I would call and never picked up the phone to dial. Not once did any of those girls sit in my head like molasses. Not like her. Copper, she struck me, hitting a nerve. The more she sat in my head, the more I

55/409

realized what I wanted. A strong woman, a confident woman, a woman who wasn't going to just yes me to death. That shit got old, really quick. Opening my door, I glanced down the hall. Privacy was one thing that didn't exist around here. Dialing the club, I waited anxiously. The ringing seemed so loud in the vastness of my room. Pressing the phone tighter to my ear, I wanted to ensure my inquisition was only answered to me. No one else. The last thing I needed was one of the maids hearing my conversation and running to my father. I read the lawyer's papers repeatedly, and I'd found a loop hole. Doing this was risky; my father expected me to find a nice girl, a girl from another wealthy family, roots that would be comparable to ours.

56/409

What I was about to do, the route I was going to take, it was less than what he expected. But his demand, his arrangement for my life, it lacked description. He asked for a grandchild; he didn't mention marriage or a relationship. Just a baby; all he wanted was an heir. I was going to do this. I was going to give him what he wanted. But I was doing this my way. My father might have his fist clenched tight around the money, around the people below him, but not me. I never let his hand taint my world, or skew how I thought about myself. He tried desperately to make me a spitting image of him. And that's not who I am.

Chapter Three Noella Standing in front of my closet, I flipped through the array of clothing set on the hangers. What should I pack? I thought, dropping my hand to my hip. Pulling each dress out just slightly, I stared blankly into the fabric. I had the biggest offer of my life laid before me. Gloria had told me this was a huge opportunity for me. That this could help me pay off a giant chunk of my debt to her, which I was more than happy to do. So long as I didn't fuck it up. And I certainly wasn't planning on screwing up a good thing. Especially if it slashed what I owed her in half. If I ever wanted to

58/409

get back to my life, to the career I had dreamed of, I couldn't pass this up. Before all of this, I had been in school, living a fairly typical life. No one's world is a hundred percent perfect, that's for sure. But my life was mine, and I was proud of that. I was two years into my degree for culinary arts. I loved cooking, it was my passion. But that was all cut short, way too soon. There had been dreams of owning my own restaurant, being head chef, creating dishes that would melt in people’s mouths. Ever since I was a little girl, that was all I wanted. Some people spend their entire lives searching for that one true passion, that one thing that fuels and drives them. There had never been a question in my mind; I was going to be the next Martha Stewart. I know it might sound silly, but I used to spend hours watching her with my mom. We would try and recreate her dishes and

59/409

techniques. Those are the memories that bring me happiness. And hopefully, in the near future we'll be able to do that again. I had never expected in a million years that I'd be here, baring my body for profit. My family didn't know all the details of how I got the money they needed, and truthfully they never even asked. I'm pretty sure the fact that their daughter, who had been working part-time, showing up with the sixty thousand dollars from thin air, made their heads spin. But in the moment, there wasn't time for questions. I had given them what they desperately needed, that was all that mattered. And if it meant that I would have to put myself on hold for a while, it was worth it. My phone vibrated on the nightstand. Glancing down, I saw that it was Fionna. What the hell does she want? She never

60/409

called me for anything. To see her name lit up across my screen, I knew she was fishing for something. Clicking the answer button, I said, “Hello?” “Hey, Copper. It's Fionna.” The snap of her gum rang through the receiver. The light sound hit my ear with a metallic pop. “What do you need, Fionna?” “So, I hear you leave tonight for Martha's Vineyard?” “Yeah, Gloria said my flight leaves at seven.” Why is she calling me about this? Fionna was good at pretending to be interested. She was one of those people who would act friendly to your face, then talk all the shit she could when you weren't around. She treated Tigress like a high school cafeteria. She had her clique of 'friends', who without their knowledge, were bashed by her any second she could. Fionna put herself on

61/409

a pedestal, expecting to be treated like a fucking queen. “Well, I was wondering if you wanted any company? It can be dangerous out there, so I'm offering my help if you want.” Her false concern floated through the speaker. “Sorry, Gloria said they were very specific about their request. They only wanted one girl, me.” Personally, I would have liked to be able to bring someone else along, it was always more relaxing to have a familiar face. But even if I was allowed to, I wouldn't have asked Fionna. I could hear her huff under her breath. She didn't like my answer. And she never liked me. Mostly, she hated the fact I didn't walk around kissing her ass like the others girls. I have a pretty bold personality, I'm not afraid to be honest, and I don't pretend it either.

62/409

“Well, I hope you know what you're doing. I don't want to see your face plastered on a missing person flier.” Rolling my eyes, I paused before speaking. I knew what the risks were with our line of work. Yes, there was always the chance you could go dance for a private party and it could go south. But Gloria assured me that this was a secure job. And seeing as how I owed her as much as I did, I wasn't worried she was going to put me in harm's way. She'd be the one losing out. To risk your loan, that would be a stupid move on her part. “Thanks, Fionna. But I'll be fine.” Sarcasm flung off my tongue, smiling behind the receiver. Her real issue wasn't the fear for my safety, it was jealousy. None of the others girls that worked at Tigress knew about my debt to Gloria. She wanted to keep it low key. The last thing she needed was the other girls seeing her as an

63/409

open bank account there to dig them out of trouble. So, even though they saw me making all this money, no one knew that seventy-five percent went to my boss. As far as Fionna was concerned, I just stole another high paying gig from her. Hanging up the phone, I grabbed a few scandalous dresses, a couple pairs of spiked heels, and stuffed them into my bag. I wasn't exactly sure what type of party I was going to be entertaining, so I wanted to have a few options. If there was one thing I had learned from previous parties, always go prepared. You never knew exactly what might be needed to really maximize what you could make. Gloria gave me the basics for my weekend away. I would be dancing for a party in a mansion off the coast. Martha's Vineyard was a high class town, with a lot of money. She said I would be spending the weekend

64/409

and if they requested longer, I could choose to stay or not. The biggest point she drove home was the money. They were willing to pay big bucks to have me there. I can't lie, the idea of being flown out to the island was exciting. This was the first time I felt good about my job. To be personally requested for a private party made my belly warm, tingles danced across my skin. I felt special. And I loved it. I held up a plaid shirt, squinting my eyes with indecision. Screw it, I'll need something to wear home that's comfortable. Jamming the shirt inside, I threw in my sneakers and a pair of jeans. For most of my life, I considered myself a plain Jane. I didn't like makeup or fancy clothes. Heels were only worn to weddings or the one school dance I attended. I was much more content wearing worn out shoes and loose t-shirts.

65/409

My weekends used to consist of comfy clothes and a lot of cooking. That had been my idea of a great day off. This job sent me into a second dimension of myself. I was living a double life, a completely opposite image of who I was. Meeting Gloria in the hospital that day had been a saving grace and a death sentence. She wasn't a bad woman, she had good intentions. But her drive for money and my desperation at the time placed us on a crossing path. The fork in my road had led me here. I've asked myself on several occasions if I took the right turn, did I do the right thing? When she found me, crying in the foyer of the hospital, I was desperate. Gloria seemed to sympathize with me. She had lost her mom a year before and understood what I was feeling. She had offered to help, insisted that I let her help me. All I had to do was pay her

66/409

back. That's when she offered me the cocktail waitress job. I'd like to think I made the right choice, it's hopefully going to give my mom another chance to experience a life similar to the one she had been living. For me, I was changed completely. A horn blared outside. Looking out my window, I saw the taxi had arrived to take me to the airport. Zipping my bag closed, I grabbed my clutch and headed out the door. The ride to the airport took about twenty minutes. Rifling through my purse, I pulled out the last twenty dollars I had on me. “Thank you,” I said, holding the bill out. The driver shook his head, no, waving his hand. “You're all set, Miss. I've been paid already.” Arching a brow, I slowly recoiled my hand. “Really?” I had called the taxi service myself, I didn't understand who could have paid for it. “By who?” I asked.

67/409

“Mr. H. He took care of it for you. Have a nice trip.” Mr. H? Who the hell is Mr. H? That wasn't a familiar name to me. Shaking my head, I stood on the sidewalk and shut the door. Maybe he was the one who hired me? But how could he have known who I called? Gloria wouldn't give me a damn inch on any info about the guy who hired me. No matter what I asked, she just rooted the question elsewhere. Stepping through the doors, I approached the clerk to get my boarding pass. Gloria had set up my tickets for the flight. Seeing as how we dancers used stage names, it was important to keep my privacy. The last thing I needed was some creep knowing my real name and becoming a stalker. It had happened to several of the girls, and that was one thing I wanted to avoid.

68/409

“Hello, welcome to Greene. Can I have your name and license please?” Pulling my I.D. from my wallet, I handed it to the clerk. “Noella Rawlinson,” I said. My eyes drifted around the screens, watching the flights as they were listed. It had been a long time since I'd flown anywhere. The last time I was on a plane was when I was fifteen. My family and I had gone to visit my Grandpa in Oregon. To be honest, the whole flight experience was a blurred memory. Mixed in between my excitement and curiosity, was a fucking bag of nerves. Being on a plane, alone; it sent my stomach straight to my throat. “Thank you,” she said, as her fingers rapidly typed against the keyboard. “All right, you're all set, you can head over to gate eleven.” Handing me a slip of paper, she smiled and pointed behind me.

69/409

Lifting my bag, I walked in the direction she'd guided me towards. The numbers hung above my head; counting down I found the terminal for my flight. Wow, I'm the only one here. That's strange. I rested my bag down and took a seat. I watched other people pass by, heading in all different directions. But no one else was coming to the terminal. Looking at my phone, I saw that the flight was set to depart in thirty minutes, and still no other passengers were sitting waiting to board. “Excuse me, Miss?” A voice emerged from over my shoulder. “Yes?” I asked, turning to see a stewardess. Her navy blue dress had a small silver plate pinned to the corner. Squinting to read it, I couldn't make out her name. “Allie,” she said, pointing to the pin. “You can board now, the plane is ready for you.”

70/409

“Am I the only one flying today?” Arching a brow, I glanced around the empty space, confusion filling my voice. The woman giggled as she spoke. “Well, yes. It's a private flight, Miss.” Shifting my sight out the large tinted window, I saw a small jet parked at the end of the airbridge. “Excuse me?” I asked, not sure I heard her correctly. “You're flying in on a private jet.” A smile spread across her face as I stood up shocked, wrinkles lifting across my forehead. “You're kidding?” I couldn't believe it. A fucking private plane? For me? I was numb; all the blood had drained from my face. My heart raced inside my chest; the pounding was so intense, I clutched my breast. Was this a joke? Was I really about to fly in a private jet, sent here for just me? Gloria hadn't mentioned this, not once did she say I would be flown out in style. She

71/409

had made me aware of the fact that this customer had money, but this was on a whole other level. The guy who hired me was fucking loaded. “No, I'm not joking. But, you do need to board now. The pilot is ready.” She tugged the ticket from my fingers, reading it over and comparing it to my license. “You're all set. Enjoy your flight.” This was incredible. My mind was twirling in disbelief, body trembling from head to toe as I walked down the bridge to the small open door at the end. Another steward stood waiting at the entrance. “Hello, please let me take your bag,” he said, as I stepped inside. The plane was stunning. Six leather seats, plush and shiny, filled the small cabin. A deep maroon rug spread across the floor, detailed dark wood lined the trim. I couldn't tell you what type of fancy wood was used,

72/409

but the gloss and etched design told me it was expensive. The man tucked my bag into an overhead compartment and told me to sit where ever I would like. I was speechless. This was the last thing I expected and I wanted to savor every second. When would I ever have the chance again to fly in a private jet? Never. The seat formed to my body as I sat down. Staring out the window, I watched the large commercial planes line the runway. The roar of the engine rumbled through my bones as the plane reversed and headed for departure. I noticed we had a completely different runway to use. One set off to the side, just for us. “Would you like some wine, Miss?” the steward asked. “Yes, please.” I wasn't really much of a drinker, but this occasion called for it.

73/409

If this was how my weekend was going to start, I couldn't imagine what else was to come. “Here you go. My name is Jeff, and if you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask,” he said, handing me a glass and filling it with wine. Staring at the bottle, I noticed the crystal glass was adorned in gold designs. “Wow, this looks expensive. What kind of wine is this?” His lips pulled back in a thin line. “It's Thistle Gold, Miss. And yes it's not cheap.” Placing the bottle inside a bucket filled with ice, he said: “Mr. Alexander requested the best for you.” Mr. Alexander, so that's the name of the man who hired me. Where does Mr. H come in? Maybe I was hired by a couple of guys, setting up a bachelor party for a friend. When I asked Gloria if she knew anything about the party or who hired me, she would

74/409

only say, 'All you need to know is you'll be making a shit load of money. The rest are minor details that don't matter.' A piece of me had found it strange that she didn't give me more information, no guidelines to follow, no list of instructions. Every party had some sort of requests or priorities that the guys wanted done. I'd been asked to sing like Cher, wear a pink wig and do the chicken dance- that time was weirdAnd once, I was at a bachelor party where the groom genuinely loved Miss Piggy. You can imagine how that one went. But this time there was nothing. Maybe, this was a first time hire? I had thought. It was possible that they'd never hired a stripper before, so maybe they didn't know what to expect. I didn't recognize the name and frankly, I didn't care. This was fucking awesome. I was sipping gold wine on a jet sent just for me, a temporary star.

75/409

The engine turned into a high pitched thunder. Buckling my seat belt, I watched the ground around me shrink. The world below disappeared as the dimming blue sky and puffy white clouds lifted me into a high I had never felt before. My nerves were running wild with anticipation; my mind was blistering with wonder of what else I should expect from this weekend. Already I had been treated like a fucking queen. I'd spent my entire life working my ass off for everything I had. I wasn't given handouts; if I wanted something, I had to earn it. My family had lived your typical blue collar life. Both my parents worked full-time, my dad drove a beat up old minivan- which I hated- and in the chaos of our day to day existence, we were blind-sided by my mom's cancer.

76/409

Her getting sick, that put a wrench in our ordinary lives. Looking around the cabin, a piece of me felt sorry that my mother had never been able to experience anything this nice before. The struggles she had gone through in life to give me and my two sisters everything she could; it was worth so much more than what she gave herself. It's something you can very easily take for granted. Have you ever sat back and thought about what it takes to provide for someone else? To give to them and never yourself, because they needed it more? I didn't, not until life was something my mother had to work for now. That's a tough pill to swallow. The realization that her entire existence had been spent giving to us, and we only took from her. It was that idea, that thought that made me want to do anything I could to help her.

77/409

She deserved it. For everything she had gone through. A twinge of jealousy seeped into my gut. To see how some people had it so easy made me cringe. I bet this man never had to once go without or have to choose between paying the mortgage or a hospital bill. As the jet leveled out, I unclasped my belt. Resting my head back, I sipped the glass of alcohol, and let myself embrace this feeling of a lavished lifestyle. I wasn't going to fall into any self-pity. My world was mine, regardless. And if I hadn't been through some of the things thrown my way, I wouldn't be me. But this weekend wasn't for any of that. This weekend I was going to enjoy being my alter ego. Copper.

Chapter Four Hegan It's almost time, I thought, checking the clock. The plane was set to land at eight. I had a limo sent to pick up Copper at the airport, let her experience a bit of my life, a little tease of what I had to offer her. I even went as far as to call every taxi company in the state to make sure that if a young woman called to be brought to the airport, I was going to pay her fare. I could give her anything she wanted, anything she ever needed or desired. If she had my baby, her world would never be the same. She'd never have to worry again about a fucking thing.

79/409

That was the idea, show her the life she can have. Now, I'm not saying I want to be tied down, but if she was the mother of my kid... Copper would know what it felt like to be gold. My plan had been set in motion. And so far, everything was easy as a fuck. Her boss practically forced the damn girl down my throat when I called. I'd barely finished my first sentence, and the woman was ready to send her out on a plane that night. I had expected her to hang up on me, tell me to get lost. Who calls and asks to buy a fucking woman? I did. And it went smoother than silk over skin. When I told Gloria who I was and what I was willing to pay, I'm pretty sure the phone fell from her fingers. I heard her scrambling around on the other end, mumbling to herself words that were inaudible to me.

80/409

It's sad really; money truly was the root of all evil. And I was going to take full advantage of it. Walking over to the bar, I grabbed a short wide glass, and poured myself a drink. Scotch, it was a liquor that had been the primary stock in my father's cabinets since I was a child. Now, it's my go to. I remember the first time this liquid hit my tongue. I wanted to throw up, it burned my throat and singed my stomach. I was sixteen, and left alone, again. That was typical for me; my father traveled a lot on business and Mom spent so much time keeping up the family name with social events, I was left to my own devices. Which I can't say is entirely bad, I had a lot of freedom. Freedom most kids that age would give a fucking testicle for. Give a teenager an endless bank account, a car, and all the freedom they could handle...

81/409

Fun didn't even cover it. That first drink, first few drinks I should say; I think I ended up drinking half the bottle that day. For hours after I was heaving over the toilet and all the maids thought I'd caught the flu. Lifting the glass to my mouth, the stinging sensation buzzed across my skin. A welcomed feeling to take my mind off my dad. The hot liquor hit my throat, easing my nerves and burning my gut all in the same instance. For once I was happy my dad had bought this place. My family only ever came here in the summer. That's when the island was streaming with life and excitement. At least that's what he used to say. Every year we would come here for weeks at a time. My parents roamed the island, waving their riches in every step. And what did I do? I sat around grumbling, drinking my father's stock of alcohol.

82/409

Lucky for me, it was Christmas time and not a soul was around. This was going to be the perfect place to get what I wanted. There were no maids or butlers here right now, and the groundskeeper was off for the next week. Which meant pure, uninterrupted alone time. And if I expected to have her, the way I wanted to, it had to be this way. Copper's image spread like wild fire into my head. I haven't been able to stop thinking about her. Her red hair, fuck it was amazing, my favorite color. I wanted to wrap my fingers in it, tug at her roots till she screamed my name. She wasn't the type of girl my father expected me to be with. He wanted me to find a girl that came from riches, one that fit the supermodel build— tall and ridiculously skinny.

83/409

Copper, she had curves. An hour glass figure I could ride for days. And let me just say, that's what I planned on doing. Pacing around the large living room, I walked repeatedly from the bar to the front window. The crystal clear glass reached from floor to ceiling, spanning the entire wall. A thick oriental rug covered the wood flooring. Even though this was my family's summer house, no expense was spared. My head began to spin, the scotch starting to dig into the muscle of my skull. Bracing the edge of the bar, I let my head fall to the cool surface. Resting my forehead against my hands, my mind ran with thoughts. A kid, a fucking kid! I need this, it has to happen. She can't leave here without being pregnant. She has to carry my child. And I won't let her go until she does. I wasn't sure how she was going to react to my demand, to the idea that she was needed so I could have a baby. The one thing

84/409

I did know— making the baby would be the best part. When I met her at the club, I knew she was different. She didn't want to throw herself on me, fuck, she didn't even recognize me. That made this all the better. She had no idea who I was, the money I waved her way had no reaction. And when the ivory of her tits and light pink flesh of her nipples flashed in front of me, I wanted her more than any woman I had ever seen. She was sexy, a redhead that had a body I was going to spend hours tracing with my tongue. Every inch of her, from head to toe, was going to be tasted by me. I'd imagined what it would feel like to slide deep inside her. Was her pussy bare? Did she maybe have a nice trail of hair that thinly lined above her clit? It was going to be incredible to find out.

85/409

I'd never been with a redhead before. It was my favorite color and I'd never had the pleasure of fucking a woman with natural locks that shade. Waves of excitement began to stream down to my cock. Stiffening firmly behind my briefs, I grabbed the swelling shaft and adjusted it. The crackle of tires against the pavement shot me from my haze. Quickly I walked to the window; the bright lights of the limo shined across the glass. Bringing my hand up to shield the glare, I watched the limo turn and park out front. Here she is. The one I'm making mine. The driver walked to the rear door, opening it slowly. Snow had begun to fall; the small white flakes fell delicately, coating the ground. The white layer spread across every surface, the blanket of Christmas. My early present had arrived.

86/409

Copper seemed to exit in slow motion. The skin of her leg peeked out first, followed by the deep arch of her hip. Her legs seemed endless, miles of pure inviting flesh for me to nibble. My cock thickened with need. The desire to bite, claw and plain maul the shit out of her clenched around my shaft. Shifting my dick, it throbbed painfully against my zipper. Right there, I was ready to fuck her till she couldn't feel her legs. I wanted them wrapped around me, squeezing my ribs as I drove myself in deep. She has no idea what I'm going to do to her. And how much she's going to enjoy begging me for more. My eyes shifted to her tits as the rest of her stepped into view. The dark jacket covered her shoulders, the plumped up flesh of her breasts still broke through the top of the buttons. Copper came dressed to impress, ready to work. A black overcoat hid her clothing;

87/409

dipping in at her waist, it accentuated her hips. Running my tongue over my bottom lip, I watched her calves flex in her heels as she stood. I knew she had no clue what the real plan was. I had made it clear to Gloria that Copper was to get no information about our deal. If she slipped and told her anything, then her cut was gone. Gloria had no issues with keeping secrets. Especially with the money she could walk away with. Her hand came up and tossed the long curls over her shoulder. Peering up at the window she looked like a small innocent doe. Her eyes widened with the massive house in front of her, arms hanging weightlessly by her sides while the driver retrieved her bag from the car. Copper's head was wrenched so far up, I almost expected her to topple backwards, the

88/409

weight of leaning back throwing her heels off kilter, sending her onto her ass. Carefully she walked up the granite steps, checking her footing to make sure she didn't slip. I chuckled, thinking that she looked like this was the first time she ever adorned her body in shoes like that. Her legs shook to keep steady, arms held out for balance. It was as if she was crossing a tight rope over a gorge, one wrong move and she was going over the edge. Originally, I had thought about meeting her at the door, opening it and gracing her with a smile. But that would've been too easy. I wanted to tug on her nerves, make her question what powerful figure she would lay eyes on. This was a game, my game. And I couldn't wait to claim my prize. But this had to be methodical. I knew throwing out the demand for a baby wouldn't work on her. Offering her money would

89/409

probably be met with a slap—if I didn't get one already for telling her she was having my child. Copper was the one I wanted, and I wasn't going to give her an option to say no. I had the idea to leave a note pinned on the door, guiding her into the house. It told her where to go and where to come after she got settled. I was all about the dramatic effect, which I'd like to think was going to blow her fucking mind. Maybe, if she saw what I could offer, this opportunity would be seen as a promise of good fortune. And for me, the chance to keep what was mine. Did I want a baby? No. But if I wanted to keep what was rightfully mine, then I had no choice. And she wasn't getting one either. My father was an asshole for doing this. I hadn't said more than three words to him

90/409

since that day. And I didn't care if I spoke to him after this was over either. He's been riding my ass for as long as I can remember, and all I ever really wanted was to live some sort of normal life. But, he had other plans. Obviously. Pressing my face to the glass, I watched her lift the note from the door. Glancing around over her shoulder, her eyes shifted up the massive windows. Quickly I stepped back, I didn't want her to have even the slightest view of me. I couldn't imagine what she was thinking; what was going through her head as she read my letter. Gloria had promised me she would give her the bare details. And to not worry, it was going to be easy. Did she know Copper as well as she thinks? I hoped so.

91/409

She was fairly convincing that all I needed to do was a little swooning, a little spoiling, and the girl would be putty in my hands. This couldn't fall through. It had to happen, my time was running out. The papers said I had one year. One single year to meet a woman and produce an heir. I didn't know what type of shit my dad was smoking when he came up with this, but if I failed... I won't, this is going to happen. I didn't care to ever run the company, be the ceo and have all those fucking people barking up my ass all day. But I wanted what was mine, my cut in the business. That was what I deserved, what was owed to me. Peeking out the window, I realized she had come in. Copper had actually followed the directions on the note. That was a good sign, if she felt wary she would have hailed

92/409

down the limo and run with her tail between her legs. But she didn't. She came in, and I couldn't wait to come in her. Flopping down in the over sized recliner by the fire, I spun my thumbs around each other. How long would she take to come up here? I wondered, nervously wiping my clammy palms on my jeans. Taking a deep breath, I watched the fire crackle inside the stone. The sparks lit up like tiny fireworks, popping as snowflakes melted down the chimney and hit the heat. Every color reminded me of her; the reds and oranges, the flames burning inside me. She was the sexiest woman I'd ever laid eyes on, and I couldn't wait to peel her clothes off and reveal all of her to me. Copper had walked right to me, nibbling on the trails of bread I left for her. Now she was here, here for me.

93/409

And any answer other than 'yes' wasn't going to be heard. She had no choice, just like me.

Chapter Five Noella Wow, that house is fucking huge. My eyes expanded as the limo drove up the half-mile long driveway. I'd never seen anything like it in my life. When the tree line opened to reveal the house, my jaw dropped. Pictures of mansions do no justice until you're up close and personal with one slapping you in the face. There had to be twenty windows, maybe more. Every piece of glass had a single light flickering inside it, a giant wreath hung from the large center window. The yard; speckled with statues and shaped bushes; was dusted with snow, illuminating everything under the moon light, making it glow brighter. It was a

95/409

picture from a magazine and I was about to walk onto the page. My small existence in the world suddenly seemed even tinier, I felt like a little girl again. The world around me was scooping me up and engulfing my body, cupping my small frame like a child covers a captured butterfly. The snowflakes fell gently, resting on my hair and melting to the warmth of my body. Carefully, I made my way up the steps. I was scared I would fall, slipping on the steps and spraining an ankle. I couldn't afford another medical bill, my measly twenty-five percent cut of what I made barely paid the bills I had now. Searching the double doors for a bell, I spotted a slender white envelope wrapped with a pink ribbon. Leaning in my name was scribbled across the front. What the hell is this? Peeling the flap open, I pulled the paper out from inside.

96/409

Copper, The door is open, please come inside and make your way down the left hallway. The third room on the right is yours for the weekend. Make yourself comfortable and when you're ready follow the hall back to the stairs. We're waiting upstairs and eager to meet you. – H I didn't know what to think, I had never seen anything like this before. With all the private parties I'd entertained in the past, no one had ever left me a note. Staring at the doors, I softly gripped the cold metal handle. Taking a deep breath, I pushed the door open. Heat from inside sprung out, smothering my face; it was a welcomed feeling. The air outside was cold as hell, and my cocktail dress did nothing for warmth. The entryway was even more beautiful than the outside. Marble tiles were laid across the floor, fitting together to form an

97/409

intricate floral design. Tall vases rested against the side walls, and a wide spiral staircase spread up to the vaulted ceiling. The touch of Christmas was sprinkled over everything. Green garland ran up the railing and across the ceiling. Small red bows were tied against the strands with large silver bells that hung around the entryway. It was a sight to be seen, decorated for the queen. I was in awe, the entire space left me breathless. Closing the door, I stood listening. Why is it so quiet? If there was a party, shouldn't I hear it? I expected to hear music and laughter; men chattering and hollering at each other with the clanking of glasses ringing through the air. Instead, I was met by silence. Forcing the thought away, I realized this was a mansion. The party could probably be thriving in another area of the house and I wouldn't even know it. I'd never been in a

98/409

place this large before, how the hell would I know what to expect? Turning in the direction of the note, my heels clicked down the hall. The echoing rang in my ears as I counted the doors. Reaching number three, I turned the knob gently, and the door swung open to biggest bedroom I'd ever seen. I didn't feel like myself. It was like I was looking down on my body, watching myself take in the glory of the space. There was a king size bed set inside the most beautiful wood frame. Green silk bedding laid across the top, a mountain of pillows was fixed against the headboard. I was pretty sure my mouth hit the floor. This is my home for the weekend? Holy shit. Tossing my bag onto the bed, I sat on the thick mattress and ran my fingers over the smooth fabric. Tracing the intricate designs with my fingertips, it felt like pure liquid velvet under my touch.

99/409

This is unreal, I don't know what to think. My lip curled slightly, a playful joy filtered through my muscles. I couldn't believe where I was, even if it was only going to be for a mere blip of time. I wanted to savor everything, every feel of the riches I knew I would never have the pleasure of living in again. Opening the bag, I sifted through the clothing as I re-read the note. There was nothing in it to tell me what type of dress to wear, or how to approach this job. I suddenly felt very unprepared for this. My bag was filled with skimpy short dresses in a place that seemed better fit for gowns. Most of the time I knew if it was a bachelor party or birthday party. I'm given instructions on what the customer likes, how to get them involved and comfortable. But not this time. This time I was left in the dark to just guess.

100/409

Pushing around the clothes I pulled out a short, tight teal dress. It was one of my favorites; sexy, but still covering all the right areas to put the imagination to work. Slipping it over my head, I peered at myself in the floor length mirror. The blue stood out against my hair, making the red seem bolder and really pop. I'm sure this will do the job. Not that it really matters. The men never looked at the actual dress, they always tried to look through it, fucking me with their stare. Running my fingers through my hair, the curls draped over my shoulders; ends tickling the slit of my breasts. It's time to get to work. Here we go. My stomach was riddled with knots and butterflies. This was a big deal for me; it was a chance to be a leap closer to freedom from what I owed Gloria. That's what I really wanted; I wanted my life back; I wanted to be back in the world I knew and loved.

101/409

Closing the door behind me, I walked to the stairs. Standing at the bottom, the staircase seemed endless; curving up and around towards the ceiling. There had to be thirty steps at least, definitely more than you're typical two story house. I gripped the railing tightly, having no idea what awaited me at the top sent a surge of fear through my body. Prickles shot across my neck, my spine straightened as the muscles tightened around each individual bone. A heavy breath freed my lungs as my heel hit the bottom step, knuckles whitening with each lift of my foot as I squeezed harder around the railing. Reaching the top, I turned my head side to side. A dark hallway was to my left, but to my right was a large open arch. An iridescent glow flickered in the opening, and a subtle distant melody seemed to be creeping out from inside.

102/409

That must be where I need to go. It's the only sign of life around here. But it's still so quiet... Maybe the real show isn't tonight? It occurred to me that I was here all weekend. It was possible that the party could be set for another night. This could have been just a meet and greet. Maybe this was where I would get any information I needed. But the feeling of uncertainty sat like heavy lead in my stomach. This was different, not the typical job. I wasn't in a sleazy motel room filled with barking boys, and the scent of cheap cigars swirling around my nose. In that moment, I wished there was someone else with me, even if that person had ended up being Fionna. Anyone would've given me some sort of comfort, I didn't care who. Just someone else so I didn't feel so uneasy, and alone. Walking slowly towards the light, I paused in the doorway. There was a man

103/409

standing against the far wall, facing the window. I couldn't help but notice the muscles beneath his shirt. Each protrusion stood out, dipping and dancing against the fabric as he shifted his arm up to rest it on the glass. “Come on in. Don't be shy,” he said. His voice was muffled as his head tilted over his shoulder. “Hi, I'm Copper. I'm the girl you hired...” My words trailed off. I knew he was aware of who I was. “You know who I am. I don't know why I said that.” A nervous chuckle spilled off my tongue. “Good observation, Sweetheart.” He twirled a glass in his hand, wrist circling the liquid around the ice cubes inside. Bringing the drink to his lips, he sipped it slowly. “Help yourself to the bar, there's plenty if you're thirsty.” His eyes remained set outside, frozen in place. “No, thank you. But I didn't get your name, you are?” I asked.

104/409

“I didn't give you my name.” He turned his head towards the stone fireplace on the far wall, his profile flickered in shadows of orange and red. “How was your flight?” “It was nice. The plane was beautiful.” I stepped forward, trying to see his face. Confusion was gripping my mind. Why won't he say who he is, or even look at me? “Good. Are you sure you don't want a drink?” “Yeah, I'm sure. I kind of finished a whole bottle of wine on the plane. A water would be good though.” Each word brought me closer to the stranger. Stepping forward, I tried to peek at his face. I wanted to see him, see the face that was going to pay me for the weekend. He was standing so still, staring out the window, gazing off into the stream of flakes falling rapidly.

105/409

And yet his voice had a familiar feel to it. But I couldn't place it, as much as my mind tried to put a face to his words, I couldn't. “There's some in the small fridge.” He lifted his arm out, pointing towards the bar. “Did Gloria fill you in on the plans for all this?” “She didn't say much, just that you requested me. But other than that, no.” I pulled the fridge open and grabbed a small bottle of water. “Excellent.” The man lifted himself away from the window. Turning to meet my gaze, my eyes must have opened as wide as the damn sun. “Surprised? Remember me?” I couldn't speak. No words seemed to form in my brain. I stood with a blank stare, my eyes shifting between his features. It was him, Hegan. “You?” The single word shot off my tongue, jaw hanging open in disbelief.

106/409

“Yes, me.” He laughed loudly, his head cocking back to release the air from inside his chest. “In case you forgot, the name's Hegan.” The deep ominous glare hit me with such force my entire body shook. How could this be? The man I'd seen at Tigress was dressed like he just strolled in from a hard day on a construction site; he was cocky and self-centered. Certainly not a rich, wealthy son of a bitch. To say I was shocked would be an understatement. I could feel the blood drain from my face as the realization set in, skin buzzing from the lack of oxygen. I'd thought he was a drug dealer or just an attention starved man who brought the bankroll for show. I never expected to see his face again, but Hegan had been the one who hired me for the weekend. “I didn't forget your name. But why the hell am I here?” My hands fell to my hips, wrinkles forming across my forehead. “I

107/409

don't see a party. Unless you're planning one for tomorrow?” “No, there's no party. I hired you for me.” His teeth bit down, pulling his lower lip in. “Why?” I asked, furrowing my brows. What the hell was this guy doing? He doesn't need me if he's not having a party. Why would he go through the trouble to get me here. I was sure the plane wasn't cheap, and that mansion obviously wasn't the small apartment I pegged him to have. “No more questions. All you need to know for now is that you're getting paid well. Isn't that enough?” Asshole! What a fucking asshole! Does he really think money is all I care about? “No. I want to know what you need me here for? I don't care about the money. I have a job I thought I was hired for, a party? Was that a lie?” “No, it wasn't a complete lie. I am the party, Babe.” His smile stretched the entire

108/409

length of his cheeks. Strolling closer towards me, his hips shifted side to side. My eyes shot to the mass bulging beneath his jeans. The form of his cock was outlined perfectly, pressing against the rough material. A warmth started to fill my belly, tingles rising up across my skin. Stop it Noella! If he did hire you then it's work. That's it. Nothing more. Huffing under my breath I turned my head away. “So you hired me for what? To just dance? Because that's all you're going to get. I told you that before.” “Then dance. Go ahead, shake that ass for me again, maybe you'll get just as soaked as last time.” A smug smile pulled up to his ears. “I didn't say anything about wanting more. Because honestly, I have you the whole weekend...” His words trailed off. Reemerging behind bared teeth. “Or longer.” “No, not longer.” I hissed, lips pursing tight. “Asshole.”

109/409

“I didn't say you had an option.” His hand waved the glass, liquor sloshed around and spilled over the rim. “Excuse me?” I asked. “I'll leave right now if I want to.” I couldn't believe this guy. Who the hell did he think he was? He couldn't force me to stay here, I'm not property. “Oh, yeah? Is that what you think?” He asked, still beaming with a smile. “That's what I know.” My teeth ground against each other, the words hitting and slicing through the air. Hegan let out a guttural laugh, as if I'd just told the world's funniest joke. I didn't know what he thought was so hilarious. I could see he was a spoiled kid; a child who had spent his entire lifetime getting whatever it was he asked for. His sense of entitlement streamed from every pore on his body. The sick grin painted on his face was eating up my figure as his

110/409

eyes trolled my body. He was probably used to woman giving him what he wanted. With money like that, I bet a lot of girls would throw themselves at him. I'm not that type of woman. I'm not just a walking hole for him to have his way with. And I have no problem telling him to get fucked. “You can't leave just yet, that's not what I paid for,” he said, approaching me from the side. Hegan's large hand came up and brushed the hair away from my face. “We can have fun you know, I'm sure of it.” I could feel my cheeks flush red, the heat rising from inside and coating my apples. Goosebumps emerged over my arms as his fingertips trailed softly over my skin. I wanted to step back, but my feet were frozen. His cologne floated up into my senses, the musky air filling my brain. A warmth formed deep inside my gut, spreading down to my panties. His smell, his muscles, his

111/409

tender touch; all of it sent tingles rocketing through me. Shaking my head, I finally regained control of my legs. Quickly I stepped back, eyes fixed upon the hard stone of his. “I need to go. This isn't what I thought it was,” I said, turning to walk out. I wanted to get away, grab my phone and call a cab. I didn't want to be there anymore. The sheer desire that started to press my insides, the fire he was starting in my belly; it was too much. I was a dancer. No matter how hot this guy was, I needed to keep this professional. But I wasn't sure if I could. Hegan gripped my wrist, yanking me back. Pressing me into his chest, the firm hold set me in place. My fingers dipped over the ridges of his stomach, each muscle flexing as he inhaled. “You can't leave yet, look outside. The weather is shit, no planes are flying in that. Stay tonight and we can talk in

112/409

the morning.” His eyes flicked between mine, looking inside me. I couldn't stop staring at him. The small glimmer sitting behind the glass of his eyes, the firmness of his arms as they wrapped around my waist; he was sucking me in. I let myself fall into him, let him grasp me so tightly he was holding me up. The butterflies began to swarm, a storm of nerves tore through my lungs. My lips parted and I wanted to tell him to let me go, to not touch me. But I couldn't speak. Hegan had twisted me up so tightly I almost forgot why I was there. The cut of his jaw was bold, I could see the light shadow hanging across his skin. He brought his mouth close to my face and the heat off his lips sent chills through my body. “I need— I need to go to bed. It's been a long day.” Breaking the lock he had on my eyes, I looked down at the floor.

113/409

I knew he was right, I couldn't really go anywhere right now. I was stuck there, and since I hadn't actually been paid yet for the job; my pockets were empty. The tips of his fingers gently ran up and down the small of my back. “Go get some rest and I'll see you in the morning. We can discuss the arrangements for this weekend over breakfast.” Arrangements? Arrangements for what? I was hired to give a show, nothing more. Gloria knew I wasn't a girl who's going to give their body up to some stranger for money. It seemed like that's what he wanted, but he wasn't going to get it. I felt his arm loosen from my waist, and my body swayed as his support was lifted. Hegan turned and walked back to the window, returning to watching the snow fall. Looking over his shoulder, he nodded towards the door. “Go. Before I change my

114/409

mind and make you stay up all night with me.” Grimacing in his direction, I whipped around and scurried out. He was an arrogant prick. I'm not his damn toy that he could do what he wanted with, and I was going to keep reminding him of that. Making my way back to my room, I closed the door and clipped the latch to lock it. I didn't want Hegan trying anything stupid during the night. If he'd thought at all that he got the impression I'd give in, I couldn't be sure he wouldn't try to sneak in here and take what he wanted. I let my body fall weightlessly onto the bed. The mattress closed in around my shoulders, my eyes felt heavy and hard to keep open. Hegan was sitting in my thoughts, his face repeatedly flashed like a strobe light. The way his muscles draped every inch of his flesh, his touch and how it sent electricity

115/409

through my nerves; I wanted to hate him, wanted to think he was a piece of shit for trying to force his control on me. Instead he filled me with excitement, curiosity; all the feelings that a guy like him should never make me feel. But he did. That single delicate touch of his fingers caused more emotions to flow through me than I'd experienced in a really really long time. What the hell Noella! He's a spoiled brat! A dick! He just wants to get what he can't have. You know this! Hegan was everything I despised in a man, I could read him like a fucking book. He didn't get what he wanted the first time, so now he's stepping it up. He was trying to make me fall into his trap. But I won't. I'm not a gullible little girl who sees only money and power. I needed more than that. And Hegan... he doesn't have it.

116/409

He's a manipulator, a man on a mission. I'm a game to him, one he thinks will be easy. But, I don't care about his money. That doesn't make me wet in my panties, or want to bend over for him to fuck my brains out. Yes, he was sexy and hot as hell itself, but that was all. I could bet a thousand dollars he was your basic, generic guy. He was looking for a piece of ass; and when he was done he'd wave his hand, and send you on your way. I'm all set with that.

Chapter Six Hegan The darkness of my eyes began to fill with light. The sun had crept in between the curtains, wrenching its nails under my lids. With one eye cracked open, I rolled onto my side, stretching my arms up. The throbbing inside my head beat against my skull. Gripping my temples, I forced my eyes open. Deciding to finish the entire bottle of scotch had been a bad idea. Tugging the blankets down, I slid my legs free and stumbled towards the window. The cool glass sent chills over my bare chest as I pulled the curtains back. Looking out, the courtyard was a field of sheer white.

118/409

This is perfect. There has to be three feet of snow out there. Copper wouldn't even be able to leave if I let her. Lucky for me, that wasn't an option to begin with. I knew that the woman I needed was finally within my grasp. She was now one step closer to being under my control. Running my hands through my hair, a devilish smile spread across my cheeks; it jolted my nerves to the core. This is finally happening! I'm so close now, and just in time too. Each thought felt like elephants stampeding through my mind. I needed a coffee, it was the best way for me to fight off this groggy fog stirring across my brain. Making my way down to the kitchen, I turned on the coffee pot. The comforting smell of brew began to fill the air, even just that scent started to pull up the mask.

119/409

Copper's door was still closed, I figured I'd give her a little longer before I woke her up. She had the shock of her life last night and I hadn't even shared the best part. But the sight of her when she saw it was me, that was worth a million bucks. Her eyes had grown three sizes, the ivory of her skin went ghost white. She definitely had no idea what she was walking into. Nice job Gloria. The trickling sound of liquid made its way into the pot, mesmerizing my eyes as it filled. I had the quick thought this morning that maybe Copper had tried to sneak away last night; called a cab and begged them to drive out here and pick her up. But there were no footprints in the fresh snow outside, no car tracks in the driveway. I checked. She was definitely locked up inside that room. Temptation had crept in during the night. I stood outside her door, fist raised up ready to knock. I wanted to fuck her so damn bad,

120/409

feel her wet pussy around my cock. But I stopped myself, she wasn't ready yet. Good things take time, and she was worth a little wait. I wasn't going to drag this out much longer. I decided last night in my drunken state that I was just going to lay this all out for her, there was no point in making it a guessing game. The sooner she knew why she was really here, the sooner I could start screwing her. Originally, the idea of teasing her and keeping her guessing was exciting; but honestly, my time was running out. I needed her to get pregnant. That was it. That was the only reason she was here. The smell of the fresh liquid started to fill my nose, and the instant it stopped dripping, my fingers tore it from the base. Sipping the hot drink, it warmed my throat. The caffeine's effects had set in the second I swallowed. The chill crawling across

121/409

my body started to fade along with the headache. The heat pushed back the goosebumps rippling across my bare flesh, each small bump sinking back into my skin. There was nothing like a good cup of coffee after a night of hard drinking. The soft patter of feet echoed through the hallway. She's awake, good. Smirking against the mug, I stared out the window over the sink. The ocean waves crashed against the sand, slowly melting the snow with its touch. The crests folded over in a white foam, the water's hands reaching out and stealing away everything in its wake. I heard the crack of the front door. Is she trying to go already? She won't get far. A muffled voice floated into the kitchen Her tone grumbling under her breath as she slammed the door shut. She didn't sound as happy to see the snow like I was.

122/409

For me it was a welcome sight. A moat around my castle keeping Copper from running off. From the sounds she was making and the slam of the door; to her it was a sight from hell. The sound of her feet grew closer to the kitchen. Leaning against the granite, I waited for Copper to come into view. Rounding the corner, she stopped dead in her tracks. Her eyes fell over my naked torso, enlarging as they reached my basketball shorts. My cock firmed beneath the fabric the minute she stepped into my sight. I stood silent, taking in and absorbing how she looked so early in the morning. Copper was dressed in a tight pair of jeans, snug around her hips, a loose-fitting flannel shirt covering her tits. The beam of sun from the skylight drew down across her face, hitting her cheeks just right. Their roundness blooming in an array of different shades of crimson. She looked beautiful.

123/409

“Good morning,” I said, as she made her way into the kitchen. Standing next to her, she seemed much shorter than I remembered. I was towering over her, looking down on her head. “Did you shrink?” I asked her, hovering my hand above her scalp. Clearing her throat, she said, “That's the magic of heels, any coffee left?” Tugging her fingers through the tightened curls, she tried to smooth the wisps flying around the edges. Holding my mug out to the side, I said, “Help yourself.” I watched her hips sway as she walked over to get a cup, her delicate feet padding the floor without sound. “Did you sleep good?” Leaning, I eyed her ass. The tight round mounds dipped in at the seam, creating a perfect outline of her cheeks. “No.” The words shot off her tongue. “And it looks like there was a blizzard last night. So, today sucks too.” Her eyes tossed me a nasty glance as she filled a mug.

124/409

Watching her lips softly wrap the edge, all I wanted was to feel them around my cock. “Oh, come on now. It's not that bad.” Twisting to face her, I ran my fingers over the smooth counter. “I'm here, so your day looks good already.” “Really?” Rolling her eyes, she shook her head. “When does my flight leave to head home? I'm ready to go. This job was bullshit.” A deep chuckle rolled through my lips. “I'm paying you better money than you've ever seen. If you leave now, you get nothing.” “Excuse me? I at least get paid for yesterday, that's in the contract. I was here for day one.” Her hand fell to her waist, shoulders pulling back. Her chest began to lift faster, breathing in deep gulps of air. “No, sorry, Sweetheart. Our contract is a little different than the usual one. Did you even read it?” Narrowing my eyes, I lifted one brow.

125/409

I watched the realization sink in. Her eyebrows shifted up, light crinkles pulled across her forehead. Her lips turned razor thin as the wheels began to turn. She hadn't read the one I sent to Gloria. And I had been really hopeful she wouldn't. Gloria hadn't told her anything about this agreement, so why would she think this deal would be any different than her usual gigs? “What do you mean? Why is it different?” she asked. Slowly, she lowered the mug down, hands opening wide against the counter. “I guess now is as good a time as any to tell you.” Copper's eyes held firm as I spoke. “You belong to me now. Gloria set a fairly steep price for you. But money wasn't really the issue for me, I need you for something bigger.” Her lip curled up instantly, knuckles whitening as her palms pressed against the

126/409

hard surface. “What do you mean? You can't buy me, I'm not a piece of property.” “Sorry, Sweetheart. You're my property now.” She looked enraged. Her entire body began to shake, lifting her arm she tried to swing it at my face. Grabbing her wrist, I pulled her in close, wrapping my arms around the live wire. “You don't own me! I'm not an object!” Her body twisted and thrashed against mine as she yelled and tried to break free. “Calm down! Copper, calm down!” “Don't call me that! That's not who I am! I'm a real person, one that isn't for sale, Asshole!” Her nails dug into my flesh, clawing at my forearm. Squeezing tighter, I felt her entire frame shaking. “Look, when this is over and I'm done with you, you can go. But for now, you're mine.”

127/409

“I won't give you what you want. Fucking Gloria, that bitch. How could she do this to me?” The tension in her body released. I felt her shoulders slump forward as a heavy breath of air escaped her lungs. I had the overwhelming urge to kiss her. The way she resisted me, her strong willed nature to stand by her morals. All of that sent a surge of desire through my nerves. “Money talks, Copper—” Cutting me off, she hissed, “Don't call me that.” “Then what should I call you?” I twisted her shoulders to face me. Searching the empty holes of her eyes, the blackened gaze filled with confusion. Dipping her head towards the floor, her eyes drifted side to side. “It doesn't matter. You don't deserve to know my real name.” “Fine. I don't care to know that anyway. All I need is your fucking cunt, that's all I care about.”

128/409

“I'm not having sex with you, I won't.” She lifted her head quickly, the tousled hair whipping over her cheeks. The flushed red was now a burning color running over her body, every inch of her was on fire with rage. “I don't care what you think, you're going to do what I purchased you for. I didn't pay all that money for nothing.” Copper's chest heaved with anger. She was fucking pissed, but I didn't care. For me the risks weighed more than ticking her off. I wasn't going to lose everything, that's why I was doing this. And that wouldn't change. She will have my baby. That's her only option, her only chance to be freed of this burden. My burden. I'm not here to play games with her. My fingers trailed over her soft velvet skin. A small twitch sent her a step back. She didn't want to be near me, it was clear as day.

129/409

She folded her arms across her chest, her lips remaining firmly locked tight. “Don't touch me. You don't deserve to lay a single finger on me.” Copper hugged her ribs tighter. She seemed to be wishing herself to disappear, closing her eyes hard, nostrils flaring out. “Your lips say no, but last time I remember you fucking dripping on me.” Cocking my head to the side, I bared my teeth. “I bet you're wet now too.” “Fuck off, Asshole. You can't tell me you just bought me and expect me to throw myself at you,” she said, flailing a hand up, shooing me away. “That's what I like about you, you're not easy, Babe.” Stepping closer, I gripped my cock. “You left me with a swollen cock last time, I've been ready for you take care of that since.” “What is wrong with you? This isn't how you get in a girl's pants. Does that usually

130/409

work on other girls?” Tilting her head to her shoulder, the supple flesh of her neck emerged. I had to do everything I could to stop myself from just yanking her in, taking her in my arms and kissing her. But I couldn't just yet. “Look, I know I might have paid for you, but I haven't stopped thinking about you since I laid eyes on you.” Stepping in closer, I said, “And no, most of the time I don't need to work this hard to get what I want.” “Sounds like you know how to pick them then. Loose and willing.” She's sarcastic, and she's got a set of balls. A part of me had expected that she might have been scared to know I wasn't letting her leave. Instead she hits me with sarcasm and sassy remarks. “I never picked them, they came to me. I picked you, and for good reason.” “So? Does that mean I should spread my legs for you? Because you picked me? God

131/409

you're conceited.” The light hit her eyes and they shined a color I'd never seen before. They were a mix of gray with green and speckles of blue. “Wow, you're eyes are beautiful.” “Stop. Just stop, that shit isn't going to work on me.” Holding her hand up, her palm rested out, halting my compliment. “No, I'm serious. That wasn't me trying to hit on you. Your eyes really are beautiful.” Every time I looked at her I noticed a small detail that I hadn't spotted before. Her hair had bright highlights, small freckles rode the bridge of her nose. I wanted to lay small kisses over each one, taste every small spot with my tongue. “How many times do I have to tell you to fuck off?” Laughing inside, I knew she was really angry. This wasn't the job she thought it was. She's thinks she's pissed now, wait till I tell her the best part.

132/409

The baby she's going to carry for me. “Say what you want, but I can see you want this.” Every step I took in, she took one back. “You're not going anywhere, so we might as well have a little fun.” “Fun? You call this fun? You really are something, you know that? You tell me I've been bought, and can't leave, and you think we should have fun?” Flipping her hair from her face, her eyes searched mine. “Wow. This is ridiculous, you realize you can't keep me?” “I can keep you, and I will keep you.” Smirking, I ran my hands over my chest. Her eyes following with each stroke. “I'm not doing this, I'm leaving.” Her chest heaved wildly, air pushing down inside with rage and desire. She wanted to think she didn't want me too. But every piece of her movements, every time her gaze shifted around my body; she dripped with need. I watched her step back

133/409

with her body, but move forward with her thoughts. She wasn't going to be able to hold up this wall for very long. I wasn't going to allow that. She was mine. Even if she thought she was going to leave, there was no place for her to go. And I was going to make her realize that. Copper needed me. “Where are you going to go? You saw what it looks like out there.” Bridging the gap between us, a smile spread across my lips. “You can't go anywhere without my help. And I'm sorry, but I'm not done with you yet.” Pursing her lips, the words pushed through her teeth. “I don't need you. I'm a big girl, I'll find a way.” “I can show you one way.” Palming my cock, my tongue ran across my teeth.

134/409

“You're a dick. Go play with yourself,” she said. But I saw something subtle in her stance, she shivered. A light shake had rolled across her body, and something more obvious helped to feed the cock growing in my shorts. Her tone changed. Her lips, her voice; it all softened. The same look she had that night in the club had started to tug across her face. She can't hide it, I can read her body like a good book. A great book. And I was only turning the first page.

Chapter Seven Noella Every inch of my body was numb. What the fuck did this guy think he was doing?! I was no one's property, I wasn't for sale. This wasn't what I signed up for. I would never let myself be sold for sex. And for Gloria to slip that into my contract... She was going to have one pissed off fireball coming at her full force when I got out of here. Why would she do this? Why? I thought she wanted to help me, help my family. How could I have been so oblivious to the fact it was all about money? A piece me was sad, feeling she had betrayed me this way. She knew what I was

136/409

going through, and now I knew she didn't really give a flying fuck. Hegan stood in the kitchen gleaming from ear to ear. He was enjoying my anger, I could see the excitement in his eyes when the words first hit my ears. What kind of person thinks they could use money to get anything they wanted? A spoiled little fucker like him, that's who. Options, did I have any options? There was a damn blizzard, I had no money on me and no way to possibly get off this island without Hegan's help. I couldn't call my family; they didn't need to know what I had gotten myself into, and all their money was tied up in the hospital. Besides, what was I going to say? 'Come get me, I'm miles away at a mansion. And I was supposed to dance for some guy, now he thinks he bought me.'

137/409

And the worst part of all of this... he knew it. Hegan knew I had no way to get out of here, I watched it; saw the twinkle in his eye as the confidence poured from his body. He smirked, lips pulling up slowly, satisfaction drenching his brass cheeks. I was stuck, trapped like a fucking animal in a cage. My fingers pulled against my hair, tightening it around my face. “Why do you need me for this? There are a million other girls who would probably love to be bought by you. Why me?” I wanted answers, I needed answers. In all reality he couldn't possibly keep me locked in here. That was kidnapping! I wasn't going to stand for it. No one just buys me. Stepping in towards me, he said, “I didn't want the other girls. I wanted you.” His massive hand raised up cupping my jaw.

138/409

“This is more than just sex, I didn't decide on you for shits and giggles.” My eyes burned into his, the taste of battery acid singed my tongue. “That's it? That's your answer? You're a weak prick, thinking your fucking money is all that matters, all that anyone would care about.” The words slashing through the air did nothing to rattle him. His lip curled playfully, the smug grin spreading like a crescent moon. “You're going to stand there and tell me money doesn't play a part in anything? Why are you working at Tigress then? Because you like flashing your tits for profit?” His fingers glided gently down my chin, riding over my collar bone. On reflex my head leaned towards my shoulder, creating a clear path for him to massage. “What I do with my body is my business, not yours.” Who does he think he is? Now he's judging me? Trying to make me ashamed of

139/409

what I do? He thinks he bought me! And I'm supposed to feel bad about being a stripper? Hell no. “You're forgetting, your body is mine now.” He dragged the thin edges of his teeth over my throat, sending my stomach into a million tiny tornadoes. The twisting funnels exploded inside, numbing my senses. As much as I hated him, there in that moment; his touch sent tingles cascading down my spine, Hegan's fingers were softer than I'd expected. His chest hardened as he flexed his arm, hand tracing the delicate skin of my neck. The ink rippled in a dance of its own, each movement of his arm caused the painted pain to sway and swirl to a rhythm hidden in the air. My body trembled, a light gasp spilled from behind my lips. Peering up into his eyes, the emerald green sparkled with need. “You still didn't answer me. I asked you

140/409

why?” My voice was a hush pushed through the air, the sound barely riding the tone in his direction. “I have my reasons,” he said, lips hovering just above my cheek. The warm oxygen spread over my skin, pacifying the nerves streaming my insides. How can I hate this man and still want him? It's wrong! I wanted to slink away, tear myself from his eyes. But I couldn't. Hegan had me glued in place, my panties wetting to his voice, to his touch. Every inch of me was screaming at myself to stop; but a carnal desire had filled my belly. I wanted him, wanted to feel him inside me. Maybe it was my alter ego taking control, wanting to send me into a world I never dipped a single toe in. I wasn't sure, but he was everything I hated and all I wanted. Hegan brought his lips just above my collarbone, barely touching my flesh; but breathing heavy enough so I could feel him

141/409

there. He forced his presence onto my skin, goosebumps jetting up instantly. My arms hung by my sides, limp and motionless. I knew it was wrong for me to want him this way, this badly. My head tried to push the pause button, halt the feelings floating up into my body. But I couldn't stop it. Gripping my wrists, he pulled them into his chest. My fingers rested gently against his hardened muscles, slowly dragging over each mound. Dipping into the creases and trailing down to his abs, his skin was smooth steel, firming with my touch. My body had betrayed me, quivering to his mouth as it laid a gentle kiss against my throat. I should have been resisting him, instead I molded into his form. Feeling his lips, soft and heated across the small piece of bare skin; my head fell back, eyes closing tight. “You taste sweet, Babe.” His tongue danced up my neck, reaching my jaw line.

142/409

“Now I'm wondering how your mouth tastes.” Pressing his lips firmly onto mine, his tongue pushed deep inside my mouth. And I did what I never expected I would. I kissed him back, swirling my tongue around his. Heat melded my body, mixing with a raw desire. It swept from my head down to my toes, pooling in the fire growing between my thighs. What the hell am I doing? What is he doing to me? This was so out of character for me, so far from the person I was. I felt like Copper had cemented her grip around my soul, driving me into the life I had been hiding and fading into. But I didn't want to stop, I didn't want him to stop. Hegan's hands crept up my back, wrenching around my roots and tugging my head back. He stared into my eyes for a brief

143/409

second, then threw his mouth onto my throat, nipping and biting at my skin. My lungs had seized, trying to inhale, but getting nothing. I couldn't breathe, every muscle was frozen, resting there for him to caress. He dropped a single hand, tearing open my top. The buttons did little to keep me concealed. The fabric ripped open easily, exposing my breasts. My nipples were hard, poking through the thin lace fabric of my black bra, his thick fingers thumbed the hardened beads. A hushed moan fell off of my lips as I dug my nails into his scalp. Tugging hard, I twined deeper inside his hair. “Hegan,” the hot whisper expelled into the air. Arching my back I felt his cock press into my thigh as my legs parted. “That's it, Babe. You're going to enjoy what's coming next.” Slipping his shorts down, his hard-on bounced out from inside.

144/409

He palmed the swelling length, squeezing around the base. I knew I shouldn't be doing this, shouldn't be falling into the man who had just told me I was bought like a piece of meat. But everything about him chimed around me, gliding over my skin in waves. His hand ran across the edge of my jeans, stopping at the zipper. In one swift tug, he tore my pants open. Sliding them over my hips to the floor, panties following them down in unison. My body was buzzing, electrified and charged. A wild heat burned through my bare thighs, creeping its way up to my chest. I don't think I blinked once the instant his cock was out; engorged and shiny, ready to fill me. Before I realized it, Hegan slid his hands under my ass, lifting me onto the counter. The cool stone chilled my flesh as he pushed my thighs open. My brain was melting inside

145/409

my skull, words were lost among the sparks and colors shooting off inside. Inhaling heavily, my lungs tried to force oxygen down. The new air hit my ribs like hot needles, piercing my breaths between gasps. Any thought that even tried to brush my mind for him to stop, washed away. I wanted him to fuck me. My pussy was dripping, glistening wet. A white haze had seeped over my eyes, my body craving every inch of his cock. Dancing my fingers across the thick muscle, I stroked him up to the ridge, padding the tip with one finger. A drip of precum rested at the edge, swirling it over the head, his neck craned back as he moaned loudly. Sweat trickled over his chest, the bare flesh now shining in the light. Hegan had torn my brain to bits, carving into the muscle, flicking the switch that

146/409

turned me animalistic. I was lost in him, ready for whatever he threw my way. His thick cock pressed against the pastel flesh of my bare pussy, teasing his way up the center, he tickled my sensitive button. In one quick thrust he had split me open; my pussy greedily pulling him in, sheathing the mass. Arching my back, my ass swayed with his pace, forcing him deeper. My walls rippled around his pulsing shaft, thighs clenching around his waist to keep him inside. “Fuck me. Fuck me!” I yelled, the words were built mostly of air as they thrashed out from the back of my throat. Grunting loudly, Hegan dragged his fingers over my thighs, catching my hips. Holding me in place, his cock buried into my soaked pussy. Colors lit up behind my lids, my body trembling as he sent me into climax. The orgasm coated me in molten lava, pouring from every pore.

147/409

“Fuck, that's sweet. Your cunt needed this.” His dick pulsed inside me, filling me with his warm cum. Pulse after pulse it poured into my pussy. Hegan twitched, slumping forward to rest his chest on my shoulder. The loud inhales drowned out my moan. Every sense of right and wrong flew weightlessly around in my head, bouncing off the walls without regret. I was walking on air. Wow. Holy shit... Wow. Staring up at him under hooded lids, the world around me started to settle. Realization was sinking in, and clawing up my spine. I had lost control, let my pussy lead the way. Hegan had solidified what he wanted, the dominance he expected to have. And I let him. I wanted him to. He just fucked me, in this mansion, and we didn't use a condom.

148/409

Fuck, fuck, fuck! What the hell did I just do?

Chapter Eight Noella My arms flew up and shoved Hegan away. Jumping off the counter, I swiftly grabbed my clothes from the floor. Jerking my head up, he was watching me with a smile. His teeth shined, skin tinted a light pink, muscles still beating as they cooled down. Huffing under my breath, I said, “You're an asshole.” Jumping on the balls of my feet, I slipped the jeans up over my hips in one quick tug. “Wow, that's harsh, don't you think? I show you a good time, and I'm an asshole?” His body shifted against the granite, elbow jetting out to the side to hold him up.

150/409

“Fuck you,” I hissed, pulling my shirt over my arms. The thumping of my heart beat like church bells against my ears, drowning out my own voice. “I think we just did that. You were there, don't you remember?” He chuckled loudly, muscles tensing with each inhale of air. The anger surged through my body. I hated him and was even more pissed at myself for letting him pull me in. I was repeating in my head how he had lured me here, paid my boss for me, and now this. What did I do? Noella! What the hell were you thinking? Tossing my hair from my face, my hands came down to land on my hips. “I want to leave. You can't keep me here. You got your sex, now I'm ready to go.” Hegan laughed, rolling his eyes, head following in suit. “I told you it was more than that. You can't leave, I won't let you.”

151/409

Shaking his finger, it wagged in my face. “I'm not done with you yet, Copper.” Veering my stare, I felt my face burning. I wanted my words to turn into knives, cutting through the air and into him. “I won't stay. I'm done here, done with you.” “Unfortunately you don't have a choice. If you leave now what are you going to do about your mom?” he asked, arching a single brow. Standing silent, he might as well have just thrown a brick at me. The weight barreling down on my chest made it difficult to breathe. How does he know about my mom? What does she have to do with any of this? “What did you just say?” Shock filled my voice, my throat struggled to find the air to speak. “Yeah, sweetheart. I know all about that. And if you go now...” His words trailed off. Shaking his head side to side, each vein bulged with the contortion of his neck.

152/409

“Gloria is going to pull out. Maybe you should have read that contract, huh?” I could feel the blood drain from my face, an ice cold sweat trickled down between my shoulders. Why? Would she really stop helping me? There was only one more treatment left, one final borrow from Gloria's pocket. And I've been paying on it every night since I started working for her. Suddenly I felt very small, the room around me grew like a fungus. The air had thickened to a harsh paste, the brightness now dulled as my head spun with questions and fear. “Why? Why would she do that? How did my mother get brought into this? This has nothing to do with her.” Gritting my teeth, I could feel each one grinding together. Swallowing hard, I was certain the sandpaper sensation was bits of broken teeth scraping my throat.

153/409

He had no business interfering with my mother, and the care she needed. Hegan shifted his gaze to the floor, eyeing the dark stained wood. “It doesn't have to involve her, not if you just stay and do what I paid for.” His hand ran through his hair, a single strand making its way back down. “At this point, nothing is changing for your mom. But if you leave, it all will.” “This isn't fair. It's wrong!” Red started to drain into the back of my eyes, my feelings turning from confusion to rage. How dare he try to control her and her treatment! He couldn't do that. Could he? “Then stay and do as I ask. That's it. And your mom, your family, you'll all be set for the rest of your lives.” “I had sex with you! What more do you want? How long do you need me for?” I spat between my teeth, hands flailing around wildly. I couldn't understand what else there could be.

154/409

He had his fun, made his way into my pants. There was nothing left for him to gain from this, from me. I gave him the only thing I ever kept away from my job, sex. Hegan had been the one and only guy to ever make me cross that line. I'd found myself caught between hate and a lust filled desire. He was hot, had muscles that wrapped every inch of him. The small dimple in his chin, his green eyes that sparkled when he smiled. All that pulled on me, pulled me into him. A loss of control that I've never had before. “Copper, I need you for something bigger than that.” Bridging the gap between us, he stepped behind me. His thick fingers stretched over my shoulders squeezing firmly. Bringing his lips to my ear, he softly said, “You're going to carry my child.” The hot whisper flamed inside my skull.

155/409

What did he say? Did he really just say I'm supposed to have his baby? The room began to spin, the static walls now whirling around each other. A purple fog began to fill my vision, weaving in and out of my eyes. The sweltering haze coated my body, a thin tunnel transformed in front of me, and then... Black. *** Bright light filled the back of my lids. A buzzing sound radiated around the inside of my head, the noise extending to a dull voice in the distance. Slowly my eyes peeled open, blinking rapidly, my mind was a page of blank pictures. Forcing my vision to clear, Hegan's face hung just above my nose. His mouth was moving but his sound was a mess of blurred words.

156/409

Shaking my head, the dark images seeped back in. Where I was, who I was with, and the words that crushed my soul. 'Carry my child.' 'Carry my child.' The three words clammed together playing on repeat. Over and over they imprinted themselves like a tattoo in my head. Branding the idea, the sick joke he had to be playing on me, into one giant burn. Have his baby? Was he serious? He can't be, that is the most obscene demand anyone could impose on a human being. “Copper, are you alright? Copper?” The words strained against his tongue, forced out anxiously. A look of worry was painted on his face. His eyes were popping out to their limit, brows standing straight up. I pushed myself up from the floor, scrambling back on my hands. Resting my back against the cupboards, a searing pain surged through my neck and shoulders. The back of

157/409

my scalp stung, rubbing the area I could feel a knot swelling beneath my hair. Hegan asked me again, “Are you okay? You hit the floor like a sack of rocks.” Raising up onto his knees, he leaned in closer. “I've never seen someone go down so fast, except for when my fist's involved.” Cracking a smile to his ear, he gripped the edge of the counter and lifted to his feet. Narrowing my eyes, I asked, “How can you joke right now?” My fingers spun across the floor, following the grains embedded in the wood. The other hand continued to massage the egg growing at the base of my skull. “Let me get you some ice.” Hegan filled a baggie, the sound of the ice bouncing against each other as they fell inside echoed through the headache I had forming. Pinching the edge of the plastic closed, he lowered back down to me. I didn't want to look at him, fear I might throw up on the floor if I looked into his eyes

158/409

churned inside my gut. It was hard to swallow the thoughts filling my mind. He had told me he hired me to have his baby. What is wrong with him? I'm not doing that. He's crazy if he thinks I'm going to have his child! “I'm not doing it,” I said sternly. “A thanks for the ice would have been nice.” “I'm not having your baby. I don't even know you. And I don't care about the money, that's too much to ask of me.” “I'm not asking. You're doing this, you don't have a choice.” He tossed the bag of ice down onto my lap. “Everyone has a choice.” Forcing myself to look at him, his face was still as stone. Every muscle sat in a temporary suspension, the cold glare fixing firm on me. “How are you going to help your mom if you walk out of here? My deal with Gloria is set. She's banking on you having the baby. If

159/409

you do, like I said before, your family will be set for life.” Folding his arms across his chest, he thumbed his chin. “If you don't, Gloria still makes out fine, but your mom's treatment will have no more green going into it.” How could he do this to me? He didn't know anything about what we went through, or how much of a toll the illness had already taken on us. This was a callus move, a bold way for him to throw his power down. I didn't want my family to suffer. To have gone this far only to watch the entire ordeal be for nothing... Could I do that? Could I leave my mother to suffer gravely? I wasn't really sure I could. Or would. “Why? You still haven't answered that. Tell me why you need this. I deserve that, don't you think?” His lips formed a thin line, eyes wildly searching the ceiling. Scratching his

160/409

forehead, he leaned onto the island in the center of the kitchen. “You want to know why.” Hegan rolled his thumbs together, scrunching his nose. “Because I don't have a choice. If I don't do this, then I'll lose everything too.” A softness had emerged over his face. He looked lost, like a small boy in a store looking for his mother. The strength and confidence that had spewed from every inch of him was shrinking. I could tell he didn't like this anymore than I did. He wouldn't look me straight in the eye. They zigzagged side to side, up and down. His hands rolled together, fingers twining around each other. Exhaling a labored breath, he slapped the island. “Well, we have a big day today. We're supposed to meet my parents for lunch later. You should go get cleaned up.” Spinning on one heel, Hegan turned and walked out the door in the back of the kitchen. Dipping his

161/409

head back in, he said, “Oh, and don't mention any of this to them.” Before I could speak he was gone. Sitting motionless on the floor, ice held tight to my head, I was still in shock. Reliving the entire ordeal and what he expected me to do. I had a decision to make. Run, run far away and never look back, or do something that could change my parents lives and in the process... My life forever. There's no way he can be serious. This has to be some type of test or challenge. Right? If Hegan actually thought he could blackmail me with money to have his baby, then he had to be fucking crazy. But, if he's serious... Do I risk my mother's health, her treatment, her life? My head was spinning wildly with questions and a fucking headache.

162/409

I didn't want to see everything my mom had already been through be for nothing. And Gloria, that fucking bitch. She only cared about the money, that's obvious now. If she was willing to pull out, Hegan must be offering her double what I owed her. I don't know if I can risk this. Gripping the counter, slowly I pulled myself up. The room spun slightly as I shook my head and closed my eyes. Holding tightly on the granite, I followed it to the edge. I don't think I've ever fainted before. I feel hung over, the room's spinning and a damn truck's driving over my brain. And now I'm having lunch with his family. This is like something I'd see in a movie, not in real life, not my life. Using the wall for balance, I made my way back to my room. Get yourself together Noella! You're not weak. And I never will be.

163/409

Closing the door behind me, I slid down the wood. Resting my back against it, my head hung in my lap. I didn't know what to do, or what to think. I had just been slapped with a life changing decision. Pressing my fingers into my forehead, my mind was a jostled mess. Get yourself together! You have to think clear, figure this shit out. How stupid was I? I had sex with him, unprotected, condomless sex. And that's just what he wanted. Hegan needs a baby, but why? His answer was useless. He seemed to have everything; what was he losing? Sure, I could have sat there, dwelling on the asshole that just threw a fist in my gut, and his cock in my pussy. But I decided not to. Pulling myself up, I inhaled a deep breath. I had to relax, get control of myself. Obviously he wasn't letting me go just yet. I

164/409

wasn't going to let him think he had gotten to me either. If my mom's care was on the line and her health was in his hands, I had to think things through. Maybe, just maybe, this could be my answer. Am I ready for a baby? No. But what do you do when your own mother needs you? You do whatever it takes. Would she want me passing this up? Would she risk her life for me to leave empty handed? My throat was coated in a sour taste, stomach rolling with nerves and toxic waste. I had to figure this shit out. One way or another, I knew my mom wasn't going to be the one suffering. Not by his hands.

Chapter Nine Hegan Lunch— with my parents; the thought made me cringe. Ever since my father threw his lawyer's papers down on the table in front of me; I did anything I could to avoid him. The rant of constant reminders about finding the girl, leaving a legacy to our name, it was an unwelcome conversation that seemed to plague any interaction we had. And I was highly annoyed by his antics. The repetitive nature of his comments, the reminders that if I wanted to keep my portion of the company, my chair at the 'round table,' then I better stop screwing around and focus. He was making me sick to my stomach.

166/409

Pulling a plain black t-shirt over my head, I slid my feet into the bright white sneakers set on the floor. I hated wearing flashy suits, khaki pants and button-ups; that was what my mother dressed me in my entire youth. I was told it was the appropriate style to represent our family. You know what I decided the day I turned eighteen? Fuck that. No more, no more uptight clothing with collars and ties. No more blazers and pants that had the seam running down the front. I burned that shit in the fireplace; another thing the maids were pretty pissed off about. The clothes I wore now were a sense of freedom. A way to stand out from the rest of the clan in my father's country club. I had broken the ties and cemented a piece of my own identity. Which had been long overdue. Black sheep? Yeah that's me, and I'll gladly hold that title.

167/409

Who wants to be a cookie cutter version of everyone else? I certainly don't, life would be really boring if that was the case. Standing at Copper's door, I knocked lightly against the wood. “Yeah?” she said, her delicate voice muffled behind the barrier. “We need to leave in ten minutes.” “Alright, I'm almost ready.” Leaning against the banister, I rolled the car key in between my fingers, staring blankly at its movements across my hands. What is my dad going to think of her? I'm sure he's going to huff under his breath and turn his nose into the air. Copper wasn't the daughter of a rich family, she didn't come from high class or wealth. I was fairly sure he would be egging me on to find someone else by the morning. Luckily, the choice wasn't up to him, it was up to me. And my mind had been made up, she was the one. He would just have to

168/409

deal with it, in the end he was going to get what he wanted anyway. The light clicking of heels forced my head up. There, standing before me was a woman, a woman who could have been the center of a painting, the muse of a famous artist. If she was spread across a canvas, it would go for millions. A picture worth hanging in a museum. Or in my bed. Her long red hair was pulled half up, loose strands framed the roundness of her face. Copper's lips were a light shade of pink, the apples of her cheeks mimicked the same softness. My eyes scanned the entire length of her body. The supple bare flesh of her neck merged with her chest. A form fitting green dress rode her figure to her knees, the end slitting at the trim, making my eyes walk up her thigh.

169/409

She looked stunning. The light shining down onto her, causing her to glow in an angelic aura. She had rendered me speechless, and that wasn't an easy thing to do. “Wow,” I said, the only three letters I was able to find and push out. She had taken all the words from my head, my mind only spinning with the desire to rip the dress off her and fuck her again. Copper's eyes darted up to the ceiling, her hand nervously brushed a strand of hair from her face. “Stop it. This is all I brought, I had been expecting to dance, remember?” A hairline crack lifted at her lip. I watched her try to keep from smiling, trying to hold her lips in place. “I'm serious, you look amazing.” My eyes were pasted on her, stuck against her body, unable to move. Fiddling with the small, silver clutch in her hands she asked, “So, we're going to go have lunch with your parents, then what?”

170/409

“Then we fuck again. How else am I going to get you knocked up?” “It doesn't always just happen. Did you ever think I could be on birth control? Hmm, then what?” Her high heels brought her closer to me, the scent of her perfume drifting up and coating my brain. God she smells amazing. Her perfume is just as intoxicating as she is. Her legs look endless. I want her thighs to squeeze around me. “Well? Did you hear me, or are you just going to keep fucking me with your eyes all day?” Her head tilted to the side, neck angled up. “I would rather just fuck you all day.” “Stop it. Be serious, did you think about any of that stuff? You didn't did you?” “Are you on birth control?” Tracing her shoulder, her skin felt warm and silky under my fingers. Copper whipped her head away. A deep cherry red ran over her face, her

171/409

hands twitching against her waist. “You're not, are you?” Silently she shook her head no. Arching her head over her shoulder she looked at the large grandfather clock against the wall. “I still didn't agree to this yet. I didn't agree to have your baby. I'm only going to lunch with you because I'm still being paid.” “Well, let's go. We can figure everything else out later...” My hand draped over her shoulder as I said, “While you're riding my cock.” A smile pulled up across my face. She was trying so hard to wriggle her fingers into some form of control. She desperately wanted to believe that I would let her. It was written all over her words, all over her movements. Every time she says 'no,' it's her trying to squeeze an option out of me. But I'm not giving her one. Copper pursed her lips. A heavy breath fell from her nose, chest lifting with anger. “Dick.” She huffed out under her exhale.

172/409

Laughing, I shot her an even wider smile. “Come on, the car's in the garage.” “Are we even going to be able to drive there? There's a shit load of snow, I bet the roads are a mess.” “Nah, it'll be fine. I have a Land Rover. The main roads are probably cleaned up by now.” Pulling open the door, I ushered her in with one arm. Standing at her side, I held her hips to guide her up. Watching her perfect ass slide into the passenger seat, I had the urge to slap it. Tapping her back side I watched it jiggle behind the fabric Her head shot over her shoulder. “Keep your hands to yourself, Hegan.” She spat. “I could try, but I won't. You feel too good to not enjoy in every way.” Winking at her, I closed the door and jumped in the front seat. “Alright, let's get this over with.” Pressing the button on my visor, the large metal door yanked up towards the ceiling.

173/409

Turning the key, I revved the engine and drove us in the direction of town. We were headed to an upscale restaurant on a private beach, The Towers. It was owned by the country club my father had been a member with for years. And surprisingly, the closer we got, the more my stomach buzzed with nerves. I just wanted to get this over with and get back to my main goal. Getting this girl fucking pregnant. Copper had her hands tucked snug in between her thighs, she had hidden her delicious flesh from me under a coat. One of the many reasons I hated winter, too much clothing and not enough skin. Her face sat firm looking out the window. Speaking into the glass she asked, “So tell me a little about your parents. I don't want to go in empty handed.” “You mean you still haven't realized who I am?”

174/409

Keeping her gaze on the passing roadway, she shook her head no. “Should I? Because I don't.” It blew my mind that she hadn't recognized who I was yet. Every woman in the state knew who I was. How could she not? Did she live in a fucking hole? My father's name was on every little league field around, we had family commercials running on repeat for all the local stations. It was actually a refreshing feeling that she didn't know. One of the reasons I had picked her in the first place. But I'd figured by now it would have clicked in her head. For fucks sake, she didn't ask the limo driver? “My father is Brandon Alexander. Does that ring a bell?” Shrugging her shoulders up, she twisted her face in my direction. “No.” “Okay. Well, my dad owns an oil company. The largest one around. He's a bit of a

175/409

prude so try not to take what he might say seriously. To be honest, my dad's a dick.” “Apple doesn't fall far from the tree, figure of speech in the flesh.” She giggled, the light chuckle rolling from behind her lips. A full smile emerged, spreading across her cheeks. “Funny. You might think I'm a dick for what I'm doing, but trust me, my father is ten times worse.” Turning into the lot, I parked out front. “Here we are.” “Valet, the privileged man's way to park.” A grin was still painted across her face. “Or as I like to call it, laziness.” Her door swung open, the arm of a stranger held out to help her down. A twinge of jealousy heated my core, making its way through my muscles to my head. It surged through the instant another man touched her, placed his hand on her flesh.

176/409

What the fuck. Why do I care if that guy helped her out? I wanted to do it, but who cares? I couldn't understand the feelings streaming my nerves. They climbed my spine, wrenching their grip around the base of my skull. This was a totally new feeling for me, I never got jealous. Fuck, I'd normally be eyeing the next girl that crossed by my sight. Instead, my eyes heaved fire at the valet just doing their job. I had the sudden urge to fly at him with my fist, knock him clear off his feet just so he knew she was mine. Swiftly I walked to her side. “Thanks, I got this,” I spat at him, bending my arm at the elbow for her. The man, dressed in his gray suit, dipped his brow at me. Taking a step back, he nodded his head and turned to walk away. “What the hell was that?” she asked, arching her brow. “What?”

177/409

“That. You barked at him like he was doing something wrong.” Her hand glided around the muscle popping beneath my jacket. I felt her grip tighten around the firming ripple of my forearm. Immediately the tension left my body. Her touch soothing me on the inside. “He did do something wrong. He touched you.” My sight held firm on the man aiding another person who had just pulled up. She didn't respond, instead her fingers squeezed harder. Copper raised her free hand and wrapped it over my arm. Looking down at her, I noticed her cheeks were flushed. It could have been from the cold, but the small corner of her mouth that had peeled up to her ear, told me it wasn't. Together we walked inside the restaurant. And it felt right, it felt perfect. For once, a single second in my crazy world seemed exactly as it should be.

178/409

Her in my arm, in my protection from the outside world.

Chapter Ten Noella My arm was wrapped inside his, firmly stroking the muscle beneath my palm; and a fire began to ignite inside my belly. I didn't want that, I didn't want to feel any type of emotions towards him. But it happened. A sweltering heat cut through me, disarming the wall I had created against him. Hegan didn't want another guy touching me, even if it was innocent. His feral need to protect me, to keep me to him and him alone; it brought a smile to my face. I can't explain why, or how. It just did. Entering the restaurant, I knew right away I was out of place. I was the uncut diamond, in a world of precious stones.

180/409

Everyone around was dressed fancy. There were men wandering around in tailored suits, speaking with their hands as if the words would fly out from them and take shape. The women were all wearing floor length dresses, long waves of pearls cascaded over their chests. And here I was in a dress that fit tight as a second layer of skin, and heels that screamed: 'Hey I'll let you fuck me!' I had the sudden urge to slink away, hide in the bathroom and hope some tiny mice would bring me the gown I needed to survive in a place like this. “This is awkward.” The whisper coaxed out the side of my mouth. Wide eyed, I stared up at Hegan as every head in the place turned to glare at me. The eyes of unknown people followed me as we walked through, hushed whispers floated between their mouths.

181/409

“Welcome to my world, Honey.” Flashing a wide grin, his arm wrapped tightly around my waist. “Don't worry about them, they're just jealous. I would be too if I saw you walk in with a guy like me.” Flicking his eyes down, he winked. Suddenly, the knots building and rolling inside began to settle. Hegan had not only comforted me, but he complimented me at the same time. My record with men in the past hadn't been the best. I used to be a shy girl, my nose in the books and my family. I've had a few boyfriends here and there, but nothing serious. The last guy I dated turned out to be a fucking asshole. He left me standing alone at a concert, and when I found him... Well, let's just say he was preoccupied with other company. Balls deep in a bathroom stall. That was seven months ago and I've been single ever since. My only goal after that had

182/409

been to help my family, pay my debt, and get my fucking life back. There was no room left for another guy. Hegan pulled me into his hip, leaning in he whispered in my ear. “See that guy over there? Green polo, hair slicked over to the side?” Nodding my head yes, he said, “That's Gerald Dillard. He owns the law firm my father goes through.” I peered at the man as he tossed his head back laughing wildly, martini in hand. “He looks like he needs to just give up on hair. That comb over does no justice.” Cracking a soft laugh, Hegan's hand climbed down my hip, gently cupping my ass. And when I thought I would've slapped it away, I didn't. I liked it there, liked him touching me. Shivers swept up my spine, riding my back and flowing down to my toes. On impulse I pressed myself closer to him, filling any gap I could between our bodies.

183/409

Stepping through the archway into the dining room, Hegan glanced between the tables, his chin shifted up as he looked through the crowd of faces. “There they are. Back table to the left. My mother's name is Stella, and my dad is—” “Brandon, I remember.” Twisting to look up at him, I asked, “Anything else I should know before we head into the dog pit?” Fluttering my lashes, a smile arched to one side. “Yeah, they think you're my girlfriend.” Biting his lower lip, his eyes gaped open expanding beyond their limit. “Of course they do.” The words trailed off under my breath. I should have known. Why else would he bring me here to have lunch with them? So, how does a baby fit in to this charade? He wanted to keep me, paid for my services. Which, without my knowledge, included more than just my company.

184/409

Hegan bought me in return for a baby. Now I'm meeting his parents as his 'girlfriend.' What did he tell them about me? It hadn't occurred to me to ask him. Fuck, I only met him once a couple weeks ago and it wasn't exactly under normal circumstances. We had spent a brief amount of time together. And until yesterday, I'd forgotten all about him. Well, that's not entirely true. He had crossed my mind a few times since that night. Hegan was hard to forget, you don't see many guys like him around. A sweltering mess of sexy with a dash of personality to top it off. It didn't help either that he had sent my pussy into a watery pool when I danced for him that night. And that stood out in my memory. The way he looked at me, the way his hand felt when he gripped my wrist. It was a

185/409

feeling I'd never experienced, a feeling of pure excitement. Extending his leg, he started towards the table. Following closely beside him, I was struck with a cold sweat. Trickling over my skin, its icy fingers traced the small of my back. Alright Noella, if you can play the role of Copper, you can play the role of wealthy. I had gotten pretty good at pretending since working at Tigress. Putting on the face of someone else had become second nature. I figured this was no different, all I had to do was act; that's all I ever did lately, act. Inhaling deeply, I let my mind go blank. Just be yourself. What's the worse that could happen? You're not really his girlfriend. Hegan had swept me into the mess of his life, he hadn't done anything for me. I didn't owe him shit. Yet, here I was beginning to mold myself into what I thought wealthy was, and why?

186/409

Because he was paying for my weekend. But he didn't own me, he'll never own me. My spine lifted, neck following as I held my head high. I was just going to be who I was. And if he didn't like that, well too fucking bad. I was tired of pretending to be someone I'm not. As we approached the table, I watched his dad stand and straighten his suit. His hands came down to tug on the trim, shifting up to adjust his tie. Brandon had deep gray hair, combed back nicely, not a single strand was out of place. Hegan's mother remained seated. She was wearing a light blue dress, small shiny sequins were layered across the top. Each tiny round spangle reflected the flicker of the candle set on the table. If I was out and saw these two people, I never would've pegged them as his parents. He looked like he was born from a different

187/409

version of the two people at the table. From what I could see the only resemblance was the slight indent of Hegan's chin that matched his father's. “Why hello, here you guys are. Finally.” Brandon's stern words hit my ear. There was no joking with this man, I could see it already. Hegan inhaled a large huff of air, I watched his chest expand slowly as he spoke. “Hey, Dad. The roads were a bit rough, but we're here. Only five minutes after the time you said, not a big deal.” “Well, in my world you're on time if you're early. You should make note of that.” I could feel the tension between them, it was so strong you could slice it with a knife. They stared at each other like two dogs trying to lead the same pack. Eyes sizing each other up for the fight, ready to strike if either flinched in their movements.

188/409

A soft voice floated from Brandon's side. “Honey, please.” Stella lifted her hand to his waist, gently resting her fingertips at the pocket of his suit. “Dad, this is—” Cutting Hegan off, I said, “Noella. I'm Noella, it's nice to meet you, Sir.” Extending my hand, he gripped it firmly. Hegan shot me a glance. He had only known me as Copper. Now he knew something real about me. He knew my name. I don't think he expected that. The wide gaze, and wrinkles crawling up his forehead; it painted a clear picture for me, I'd thrown him off guard. Did he really expect that I would sit here and be referred to as Copper? Please. There was no way in hell that I wanted to be here with his parents and have them calling me by that. Copper was my stage name, and as much as this was a play, I wasn't at

189/409

the strip club. This was Hegan's real life, it deserved my real name. Besides, I hated that fucking name. “It's nice to meet you too. I'm Brandon, this is my wife Stella. Please, sit.” He flattened his coat against his chest as he sat back down. Turning to pull my chair out, I realized Hegan had already done that. He was standing behind me, holding the back of my seat, waiting for me to sit so he could push me in. Seriously? No guy... And I mean no guy, contains those manners anymore. Really? I was under the impression that gentlemen were only raised in the south now. They came in the form of cowboys, riding a bucking bronco and living at home till they were thirty just so they could help their mama. Didn't they? Hegan, a gentleman? Was it possible? Could the man who had just fucked me on the counter this morning, the man that

190/409

wants to force me to have his child; really contain an ounce of chivalry? It blew my mind. “Thank you,” I said, sitting down. Cupping my hands in my lap, I would be lying if I didn't say I was nervous. My fingers braided together tightly, twitching against my thigh. His father looked so professional; prim and proper on all angles. His mother appeared to have been bred by a royal family. Her fingers touched everything with such finesse, such grace. Stella seemed to treat every item like it was made from the most fragile material on earth. “Noella, Hegan hasn't told us much about you. He tends to leave us in the dark these days.” Brandon flicked his eyes up, holding static for an instant, a long hard instant, on his son. “Where are you from?” Drifting back to his glass, his face sat motionless, elbows rested on the table holding up his chin.

191/409

Pausing briefly, I thought about how much to reveal from my personal life. Should I be honest? Be yourself, Noella. Just be yourself. “I live in Providence, but grew up in Coventry, Sir.” Curling my fingers around each other, I smiled coyly. “Providence, I have an office up there. Do you go to school? Hegan decided against it. Even though I could have gotten him into any college he wanted.” “Dad, come on. Don't make this about me. I didn't bring her to meet you just so you could rag on me the entire time.” His nostrils flared angrily, brows dipping down. “We can just—” “I was in school,” I chimed in, cutting him off. “I had started at Johnson and Whales, was there for two years until...” Gripping the napkin, I rolled it between my fingers.

192/409

“Until?” Brandon asked, sipping on his glass of Chardonnay. “It's complicated, but I'll be going back next year, hopefully.” Damn, his dad made me so uncomfortable. He never broke his stare, never cracked a smile; he just glared. “School is important. That shouldn't be something you wave under the rug.” Speaking into his glass, he said, “Like my son.” The royal touch of his wife, crawled across his shoulder. “Brandon, let's change the subject. Noella, your dress, it's...” Stella looked me up and down, her body shifting against the seat. “Nice.” I could hear the distaste in her words. Each one was lifeless, sought out as the best compliment she could find. I could tell what she really thought; that I looked like a slut. And I couldn't blame her for it either. She was the wealthy wife of a high profile businessman. Her world was lavished with jewels

193/409

and fancy things that no person in the real world would ever think to buy. I could bet any money the small, silver chain wrapping her wrist cost more than my car. And her earrings, cut diamonds tiered in sets, cost as much as my parents house. These people had lost touch with reality, with normalcy. Unfortunately, not all of us are blessed with endless bank accounts and gold taste for useless things. “Thank you.” I ran my hands over my ribs as I said, “You know I bet this color would look great on you.” Smirking, I glanced over at Hegan. A subtle smile was peeking from the corner of his mouth. “No Dear, I couldn't pull that off. Maybe when I was your age, but not now.” Stella laughed, a laugh of sophistication mixed with humor. Maybe she wasn't as uptight as I thought. At least she joked about it.

194/409

“Stella, settle yourself.” Brandon jerked his head towards his wife, unhappy about her relaxed comment. “Dad, she's joking. Lighten up, shit.” Hegan's hand fell on top of the table, knocking the silverware together. “Hegan. Do not speak like that at this table.” His father snapped at him, chest holding down the air he wanted to use to yell at his son. “Noella, what do your parents do for work?” “Dad, stop with the interrogation already,” Hegan said, palming his forehead. I wasn't sure exactly what Hegan knew about me. He knew what I did for work, about my mother being sick. But did he also know my dad was a janitor and my mom, before the cancer, was a maid? Either way, it was clear to me; any of what my life was, would never be good enough for Brandon Alexander.

195/409

“Yes, Brandon. Let's keep this lunch light. There will be plenty of time to get all the details.” His mother grinned at me from across the table as her eyes shifted between mine and the glass of wine to her right. “Would you like some wine, Dear?” “Please,” I said. That woman could have offered me anything, and I would have taken it to help ease the flutters bouncing around my stomach. “Alright. Noella, do you have any interest in government affairs?” “Well, that depends. If you're talking about straight politics, then not exactly. If you want to talk about state budgets and how they're spent, then I'm all ears.” Brandon tilted his head to his shoulder. “Budgets, huh? I'm a man of money, so budgets are right up my alley.” Waving at the waiter, he gestured for another bottle of wine.

196/409

I could feel Hegan's eyes burning into my neck. Twisting to look at him, his face was set with a look of confusion. I had just been shocking him left and right today. “You follow state spending?” His jaw went crooked, lip lifting up. He looked like an Elvis impersonator. A very bad Elvis impersonator. “Yeah, a little. I hate hearing about all the debt the state is in and how they divide their money. The reps are over paid, as well as all the people underneath them. They don't spread the money well at all.” “Well, now I have to disagree on that. The reps get paid what they are worth. The state only has so much to give.” “And that excuses what?” Cocking his brow, Brandon said, “Excuse me?” “Well, as I see it, the state is constantly cutting budgets from areas that desperately need it. But, no one else gets the same cuts, none of the state employees ever get budget

197/409

cuts. They all retain the same salary and get their raises.” “Noella, you don't know what those people do. I can tell.” “Sir, I don't mean to sound disrespectful. But those people, have no idea what the hell they're doing. If that's all it takes, sign me up. I'd love to get paid to blow everyone's money on things that don't matter.” Suddenly, I felt Hegan drape his hand over my thigh. Squeezing tightly, he leaned into my ear and whispered. “I'm actually enjoying this.” His fingertips circled the exposed flesh of my thigh. “Well, I may disagree with you, but you definitely pay more attention to important topics, unlike my son. Hegan, maybe you should try and take a few tips from your new girlfriend. Get your head out of your ass and open your eyes a little. Otherwise you know what's coming.”

198/409

The fire rolled from Hegan's nose, his breath was hot, ready to launch at Brandon from across the table. On reflex I gripped his hand, clenching it tightly. “I need to use the bathroom, can you excuse me?” The two of them, fighting each other with there eyes, was really uncomfortable. I needed to take a break, get a little breather. Pointing towards an opening to the left, Stella said, “It's right over there, Dear.” “Thank you.” Nodding politely, I pressed up out of the seat, and headed towards the restroom. The same feeling I had when we walked into the club struck my gut; a sense of awkwardness as every eye honed in on me. Looking straight ahead, I didn't want to take my sight off that place of safety. A place I could slink into and be away from the stares of everyone in the room.

199/409

I didn't belong there and everyone in the place knew it. Suddenly, a skinny man stepped into view. Resting his arm on the door frame, he leaned across the entire entrance. “Excuse me, can I get through?” I asked, stopping short. He looked to be a bit older, maybe late forties. His hair was peppered with gray, slicked back tight against his skull. A tight checkered sweater hung snugly against the small pot belly under his shirt. “So, that's a nice dress you have on.” His tongue ran across his bottom lip, slurping his saliva as he inhaled through his teeth. Rolling my eyes, I tapped my thumb against my thigh. “I need to get through, excuse me.” Stepping forward, I tried to force him to move. But he stood still, unfazed by my lack of enthusiasm for his comment.

200/409

Sliding his forefinger and thumb over his jaw line, he ran his eyes up and down my body. “How much?” Tossing him a crooked glare, I asked, “What?” “You heard me. How much? I could use a piece of ass like you, my dick is lonely. I'm sure you could perk him up a bit.” Grabbing his crotch, I watched him imagine fucking me in his head. “Fuck off, Asshole. I'm not a hooker.” Holding the strap to my purse, I felt like I was two seconds away from hitting the guy with it. “You're not a hooker? Come on, look at you. You're definitely a hooker.” Shifting on his feet, the man bit his bottom lip, tugging it into his mouth. Raising my voice, I said, “I'm not a fucking hooker, now move.” Suddenly, I felt hands curl over my shoulders, moving me to the side. Hegan was

201/409

standing beside me, shoulders pulled back tight. His hands were clenched by his sides, a look of sheer destruction smothered his face. “What did you just say to her?” The man held his hand out, still leaning so smugly in doorway. “Your bitch here is being difficult. I was just looking for a little fun later tonight, and—” Hegan didn't let another word from the old asshole come out. In one swift jerk of his arm, Hegan had him by the back of the neck. “You don't talk to her that way.” He muscled out through his teeth. I watched his fingers dig into the guy's neck, dipping in so far his nails disappeared into his flesh. “Look, Hegan, I don't understand. She's dressed like a fucking prostitute, I just thought...” “No, you didn't think. That's the problem. Now get the fuck out, before I really hurt you. Do you understand me, Alex?”

202/409

Alex shook his head, and Hegan shoved him in the direction of the front doors. Wrapping his arm around my waist, he led me back to the table, never taking his eyes off the guy who had just insulted me. And I had a rush of excitement hit me full force, my heart fluttering inside my chest. Electricity coursed through my nerves, my stomach turned like a wild fire loose in dry tinder. He had just stood up for me, protected me from some fucking pervert. Watching his face, his eyes, his lips; I wanted to kiss him, thank him for what he did. Hegan didn't have to stand up for me, but he did. Sitting back down, Stella was glaring, eyes gaping open at her son. “Hegan, was all that necessary?” The scolding tone of a mother flew from behind her lips, hushed behind embarrassment. She didn't approve of what he'd just done, and the fact it was in front of everyone here.

203/409

Coiling her fingers around her wrists, she looked around the room. The quiet voices started to raise as they all whispered among each other, glancing in our direction. “You know what? I think we're done here.” Shoving back from the table, he threw his napkin down. “Come on.” Standing briskly, he whipped around and stormed off. Smiling through thin lips, I said, “It was nice to meet you both.” A sorrowful feeling began to work its way over my mind, I started to feel bad for Hegan. His father gave him no slack, you could see in his dad's eyes, Hegan had failed him. Or at least he hadn't held up to his expectations. To sit through that short lunch with his parents, to see the small glimpse into the life he's had, a wave of mournful emotion pressed on me. He had just put himself between me and some freak trying to get me to fuck him. And

204/409

to his parents, that was only another embarrassment on their list. Hegan had probably lived his entire existence being compared to others, or looked down on if he didn't succeed just like his father wanted. What did his dad mean? 'You know what's coming.' What was Brandon holding over his head, dangling it like a toy for his cat? He wanted something from Hegan, something he expected. Was he the reason Hegan needed a baby? Was that possible? I had a moment of comparison, a flash of our lives mirroring each other. Hegan had said he needed a baby or he would lose everything. My family wasn't directly holding anything over my head, but I had to help them. It was only right I did whatever it took to get my mother the treatment she needed. It didn't matter what or how.

205/409

Our lives had intersected in such a way that we both seemed to be in the same boat, riding the same storm. Two people, and two worlds that have collided into one fucked up story.

Chapter Eleven Hegan That man made me sick. My father couldn't help himself, he felt the need to break me down any chance he got. That was my everyday, see how many different ways my father could jab his disappointments at my failures. I was happy she stuck with what she felt, not letting him shadow her thoughts or warp her point of view. She didn't care if he disagreed with her or thought the complete opposite. She stood by what she believed. And it was fucking hot. Noella... Noella, that was her name. It was pretty, suiting her even.

207/409

I wanted to say her name out loud. Repeating it over and over in my head, the letters twisted like the fiery curls of her hair; twining fiercely and burning into my brain. Tilting my head, my eyes veered over my shoulder. She was sitting so quiet, so still. Her hands were clasped tightly, softly resting on her lap. A thin strand of hair waved gently across her face, being pushed around from the heat expelled by the vents. I couldn't stop staring at her. There was something about her; the way she sat, the way she held herself. It hooked me. Turning up the driveway, I slid the shifter into park. My chest was pounding, sending the blood coursing through every vein. Sitting here next to her wasn't good enough, I needed her. Now. “What are you doing?” A slender finger shoved the loose hair back, brows raising up high. “Why did you stop here?”

208/409

“Noella, so that's your name. I like it.” Running my hand over my hair, I asked, “How come you told them your real name?” “Did I say it was my real name?” She arched her lip, the pink glaze shimmering from the sun. “You answered my dad pretty fast, so I assumed it was.” Shrugging my shoulders, I leaned in on the center console. The one barrier between us created more distance than I wanted. “It is. I told you I didn't want to be called Copper. That's just for work.” Her eyes shifted to the dashboard, hand fiddling with the vent. “This wasn't work?” Cracking a grin, I eyed her tits as they were forced up with each breath she took. Bringing her face back to mine, her lips parted. “That was your life. Not mine. It would've been wrong for me to try and be someone else there.”

209/409

I couldn't stop myself, all I wanted to do since leaving that restaurant was fuck her. Fuck her and call her name, her real name. Let the words fill me to the brim and explode off my tongue. On impulse I cupped her cheek, running my thumb over the delicate trim of her chin. Noella's lashes fluttered, spanning her eyes like small canopies. “Hegan, I can't do this. It's wrong, we can't bring a child into the world for our own gains.” She turned her head away, pulling out from my hand. Sighing heavily, my eyes rolled in place. “I can't lose everything. He's going to take it all, everything.” “So, do you have any idea what I'm going to lose? You're worried about money, I'm looking at losing my mom. There's a big difference.” Noella's chest began to heave, her mouth inhaling quickly to slow her lungs down.

210/409

The gentle tap of her lips together, the smack of moistened flesh as the air pulled in, shot through my ears. Waves of need surged down to my cock, the blood draining from every inch of my body to feed the enlarging mass. “If we do this, we both get what we want. Why is that so bad?” I was offering her a fresh a start, a world of endless possibilities. Couldn't she see that? Or was she just refusing to? “Because we're talking about a baby! A fucking living, breathing, baby. That's not selling off a piece of jewelry or a damn car. It's a huge responsibility.” “If we do this— which we are. I told you already, there's no option out. But, I have more money coming to me than you could possibly ever dream of. I'll make sure you never have to worry about anything—” “That's all you think about! Money! Get this through your small fucking brain,

211/409

Hegan, I don't care about the money!” Her words hit me with such force I jolted in my seat. “Noella, I... I...” I was speechless. Maybe she was right. I was expecting all my problems to disappear if I did this one thing. But would they? They had to, a baby was what my dad required or I was done; finished, living on the street with nothing. I can't do that, I won't do that. “I wish I could just say that, say I didn't care. But I do. I can't have it all ripped out from beneath me, Noella. I need this baby.” “I'm not doing it.” Pursing her lips, she shook her head side to side. And even with her saying no, I still wanted to fuck her; still wanted every piece of her wrapped around my cock, around my muscles. I wanted to hear her say my name again, whisper it into my ear as I pounded her pussy.

212/409

“You couldn't resist me in the kitchen, don't you think there's a reason for that? I saw it in your face that night at the club, and this morning.” “You didn't see shit. What you saw was lust, that's it. That doesn't mean I'm going to throw myself down and let you knock me up. You're fucking insane, you know that?” Her nose wrinkled slightly as her cheek lifted to her eye. The gentle wrinkles forming across her skin sent my stomach into knots. She was fucking sexy, in every way possible. Even when she was giving me a face of disgust, my cock stiffened in my pants, hardening with her confidence and strength. She was trying to pull herself from me, tear the feelings she was toiling with down and away. But she could only do that for so long, she gave in once; and now she's had a taste of what I could offer. A really great fuck.

213/409

I'm not giving up on Noella. I need her. “I've been told that before. You're not the first. But you are the first to tell me I'm crazy after we've had sex.” A smile crept up my face, and I laughed lightly. Waiting for her to lash out, I was taken by surprise. She laughed with me, her sweet chuckle hitting my ears, tempering my cock. “Then maybe I'm the crazy one,” she said between giggles. Noella was like no woman I had ever met before. She could find humor in a situation where she was angry, she could grow a spine when she was challenged. Noella was the woman who should have my child, no one else. That's what I was holding onto, wrenching my fingers around and keeping for me. She was mine, in every way. I didn't care what she said, or thought, or wanted. She was mine. “You're not crazy. You're the sweetest piece of ass I've ever had.”

214/409

“Is that all you think about? Sex?” Twisting her body in the seat, she glared at me under hooded lids. “No, the sex came after I saw what type of girl you are.” “What type of girl I am?” Veering her eyes, her head fell forward. “Yeah. You're not weak, you're not a bitch, even when you try to be. You have brains, and can think on your toes. It was that stuff I saw first. The sex, well that came later.” Scratching my scalp, I said, “Now don't get me wrong, the sex is what I needed. But the mother of my kid wasn't going to be some dumb bitch, who could barely operate an ice tray and wonders if the stuff in history books are real.” I watched her face spread a bright cherry, looking down at her knees, she said, “You saw all that in me? How?” “It's painted all over you, Noella. Let me ask you this, why do you work at Tigress?”

215/409

Holding up my hand, I paused her answer. “I know you owe Gloria money, but why there? Why not get a job some place else?” “I just wanted to pay her off as quick as possible. I'd been working part time for a coffee shop, and that wasn't going to do shit to put a dent in what I owe her.” Letting her head fall towards her chest, her voice softened. “And Gloria played up the club. I didn't think I had a choice really. Especially if I wanted to get back to my life.” Twirling her fingers around each other, she braided the long digits. “I knew the instant I saw you that you weren't cut out for that world.” Gripping her chin tightly, I raised her eyes to mine. “How? How could you know?” The deep crystal of her gaze shifted between mine. Darting her eyes back and forth, she dug for an answer. “You had an air of intelligence. I could smell it, like the panties you were wearing

216/409

that night.” My teeth bit my lower lip, tugging it in. Bringing my fingers to her neck, I caressed the bare flesh. Gliding them up and down, she quivered beneath my touch. Goosebumps rolled up across her skin, shooting out like tiny mountains against the snow. She can't resist me. She's just as drawn to me as I am to her. Otherwise, she would have high tailed it out of here. It's not like I have her locked up and cuffed. “Heg—” Silencing the sound about to break through, I pushed my lips against hers. Our tongues danced together, twisting and wrapping around each other. I had to have her, again and again. She was all I had thought about since I first laid eyes on her. Her body, her pussy; it was all intoxicating, filling my dreams every night. Floating my tongue across the ridges of her mouth, my fingers squeezed her shoulder

217/409

blades. Pressing her chest against mine, I wanted to tear her from the seat. The giant plastic console dug into my ribs, making the rest of her hard to get to. Noella dragged her tongue over my lips, biting them softly. Her skin felt damp, the heat of my touch warming her body. Her hips rocked back and forth, knees opening wider as her hands trailed up her thighs. Placing my hand on the seam of her dress, I jerked it up. “No panties?” I said, my eyes opening wide. Nodding her head no, she pulled my hand down to her pussy. “What can I say? I hate panties.” Her head fell back onto the seat, rolling to look up at me. “Then why did you have them on when you were working, and this morning?” Cupping her mound, she moaned loudly. “Because I don't want just anyone looking at me. And Jeans with bare skin...” Spreading her legs as far as she could, I slid one

218/409

finger over the wet center. Her thighs shook with my touch, back arching up high. “Mm, yeah.” Her moan fell out like hot liquid from her mouth. I had just silenced her thoughts. Noella draped a hand over my hard erection, following the outline beneath my jeans. Pushing firmly against the zipper, it ached to feel her. And I pained to have her. Popping the button in one tug, she slid the zipper down. Reaching her hand inside, she gripped my hard shaft and pulled it free. A soft gasp spilled from the back of her throat as I clicked faster against her clit. She started at the base and worked her way up. Palming the tip, she squeezed hard. I was ready to burst, even before she touched me. Noella was a sacred piece of art, a masterpiece I wanted to consume. Wrapping my arm around her waist, I yanked her over onto my lap. Her dripping

219/409

pussy slid across the top of my cock, making my eyes roll back. To feel how wet she was, it drove me wild. “You feel that, huh?” The soft whisper spread across my ear as she bit my lobe. “I've never been this wet before.” Growling from the back of my throat, I tore her jacket off. Ripping it down her arms, I threw it to the side like a piece of useless garbage. Peeling the top half of her dress down, her tits emerged, nipples poking out and firm. Squeezing her breasts together, I twisted my head side to side, running my tongue over each soft pink circle. Noella's nails scraped across the back of my neck and up into my hair, tearing at the roots. I was ready, ready to fuck the shit out of her. I wanted her to ride my cock, feel me hit her all the way up in her belly. Picking her up at the hips, I tried to guide my cock inside. Swiftly, she blocked it from

220/409

entering. “Do you have a condom?” she asked. “Why? We didn't use one earlier.” Forcing my tongue up her ribs, I leaned in to bite her shoulder. “Which was a mistake, no condom no pussy.” Clicking her tongue, she covered her pussy with the front of her dress. My head fell heavy against the seat. “You know why you're here. Do you think I have any?” Noella's mouth flicked towards her ear as if she was thinking. “Well, looks like this isn't going any further.” Lifting her leg off my hip, she tried to guide it back over the seat. Her body twisted awkwardly, ass honking the horn as she fell back against the steering wheel. “Noella, don't. You can't leave me like this.” My hands gestured down to the hardon standing up firm. “I know you want it,” I

221/409

said, gripping my cock, sliding my hand up and down the shaft. The horn blared loudly with her ass still fixed against it, using the wheel for leverage she attempted the maneuver again. Slipping forward, she was pressed against my chest. Her hand ran over my torso, I felt each finger roll over my abs. Looking up at me, I pulled her to my face. She wanted to speak, her lips opened softly, her tongue raised towards her teeth. But I stopped her. I pushed my tongue in her mouth, tasting the words that wanted to escape but never had the chance to form. Her tongue wrestled with mine, arms firming around my shoulders to pull herself up. Noella didn't break the kiss. She let me consume her, let me indulge in the honeyed flavor of her mouth. If I wanted to stop myself, or have that second of thought, I couldn't.

222/409

She was what I needed in so many ways. My heart raced inside my chest, beating fiercely against the walls containing it. I could feel my cock throb, pulsing against the flesh of her thigh. Her fair skin was tinged pink, the muscles of her thighs shaking with desire and nerves. She knew I was going to fuck her, and she was going to let me. Even with her false affection for protection. If she didn't want it, if she didn't feel it like I did, she'd be back in her seat, closed off and unwilling to keep going. But Noella was pushing back, grinding her pussy into my lap. The wet heat radiated, dampening the fabric of my jeans. Our eyes froze on each other, as her body lifted up. Sliding her pussy across the swollen tip, I drove myself inside. Her spine firmed, sitting her straight up, hands clasping around my neck.

223/409

Every inch of my cock was buried deep inside her. Rocking her hips, she rode my length, gliding up and down. Starting off slow, she raised up on her knees. Her tits leveled with my eyes, perched like two perfect rain drops. Bringing my teeth up, I nibbled on her nipples. Finding her pace, my fingers slid up to the small of her back, gripping the dimples rested just above her ass. Jerking my hips up, I pushed myself in as far as I could go. “Noella, fuck Noella.” Biting my lip, my cock throbbed, the heat bubbling up into my stomach. If I had one weakness when it came to sex, it was having her on top. Trying to hold back, I felt her body quiver, a delicate coo forced out from her mouth as her head fell back. The tell tale sign she was about to come, about to cream all over my dick. That was all it took. My balls went taut, trembling from

224/409

below, my thick shaft pulsed inside her. Pump after pump I shot my come in waves into her pussy. Every muscle in my body tensed, beads of sweat trickled over my forehead, dropping with soundless splashes onto her thighs. Lifting my head to her face, she stared at me. Her body relaxing and eating up the orgasm that just electrified her insides. Without her speaking I knew what she was thinking; what was running through her head in a rapid cascade of thoughts. We had just done what she thought she didn't want to. We fucked without protection, without a barrier. She had just given herself to me again, fully and ultimately with no regrets. A smile emerged from behind her eyes, growing across her face. “I don't know how you do this, how you get me to drop all my guards. But you do,

225/409

Hegan. You do.” Her head fell onto my shoulder, chest resting against mine. And our breathing became one. One inhale, one exhale. In our little cocoon, the world around us was fogged out. The windows were glazed in a haze, the sounds of outside masked by our lungs. And in that moment, in that space, she was mine. No one in else in the world could reach her. She was exactly where I wanted her.

Chapter Twelve Noella How is he doing this to me? When I'm with him, all I want is him. But he's dangling my mother over my head. I'm supposed to hate him, but I don't. I want to and should... But no matter how much I think I do, he gives me feelings I've never felt before. The tingles in my belly, the nervous knots that roll around when I'm about to see him, or just plain next to him. What the fuck! How can this happen? How can I actually want the man who is trying to force me to have his baby? It didn't make sense, and it wasn't rational. I knew that, but I couldn't stop the feelings, couldn't halt the electricity between us.

227/409

He's a man who's been given an option, a man who also feels there is no way out. And his father is a piece of shit. Trying to push on Hegan what he thinks he should be and what he thinks he should do with his life. It's not right. A parent is supposed to be there for support and encouragement. I've been lucky, my parents had always stood beside me and let me find myself; let me be who I wanted. Not once did they ever try and push themselves and their views on me. That's how it should be. Parents were there as a guide, a pillar of what was right and wrong. But in the end they gave us the tools that a child would need to make the right choices and decisions in their life. After lunch with Brandon and Stella, a part of me began to feel really bad for Hegan. All he wanted was for his parents to accept him for him. But they didn't.

228/409

His mom seemed like she wanted to, but didn't feel she could. She didn't give him the same deadened look as his father. Stella had a warmer expression; a tender side that had been drowned for so long by their lifestyle, and her husband's ideal image. Brandon had his hands wrapped around her too, squeezing to the point of suffocation. As if she was trapped in a cocoon he had formed; an ugly, hardened shell, that held her prisoner to his ways. I got a first hand view into the box of their lives. Looking from the outside, seeing the tension between Hegan and his dad; they must have been battling for years. Every sentence out of Brandon's mouth was about something Hegan should do or didn't do. It's no wonder he felt he had no other options, he probably wasn't given any in life to begin with. Where was he supposed to go from that?

229/409

It's sickening to see the disconnect between them. They don't have a family, not in the true form of the word. Hegan's deeper than what he wanted show; what he showed the world was only a crust he formed on the outside. For him to have told me all the things he saw in me, it melted my heart. Looking out the window, the snow glistened brightly under the sun. Squinting my eyes, I spotted something out in the vast yard. A large hill was set a few hundred yards away. I think it's time for a little fun. When was the last time Hegan had time to play? Throwing the door open, I ran to the bottom of the stairs. “Hegan!” I yelled. My voice echoed off the ceiling, circling the room. “Hegan!” The loud clomp of his feet ran across the floor. “What? You alright?” “Yeah, I'm fine. Throw on some warm clothes and meet me in the back yard.” A

230/409

huge smile spread across my face, teeth closed tightly inside my lips. “What?” he asked, arching his brow. “Warm clothes, outside in ten minutes.” Pointing my finger up at him, I said, “Really warm clothes.” Spinning on my heel, I didn't give him another chance to speak. Making my way back to the bedroom, I realized I hadn't exactly thought this through, or brought anything warmer than my jeans and jacket. Scrounging through the closet and draws to see what was there, I yanked out a large brown fur coat and held it up. Looks expensive and warm. Perfect. I hoped Hegan wouldn't mind me using it. But with the money his family had, I was sure they could afford another. Sifting through the drawers, I found thermals, heavy socks, and a large country club sweatshirt. My clothing issue was solved.

231/409

Standing outside in snow up to my calves, I had two trashcan lids rested under each arm, holding them proudly. I'd spotted them in the garage when we left for lunch, and knew they would do the job. Hegan opened the door and stepped out. Dressed in black sweatpants, a heavy jacket and knitted cap, he looked like he just jumped out of a damn Charlie Brown cartoon. I couldn't contain myself, a gut wrenching laugh spilled from my lips. Bursting out laughing, he asked, “What?” Holding his arms out. “What the hell are those?” he questioned through chuckles. “Garbage can lids. Have you ever seen one before?” Smirking wildly, I held them up. “Yes, I'm not that sheltered. But what do you have them for?” Pushing through the snow, he stood a foot away. “Nice coat.”

232/409

“Thanks, I found it in the closet. How does it look?” I pressed my arm into my hip, twirling my leg side to side. “It looks like it belongs to my grandmother.” “Hope she doesn't mind me using it.” Gazing down at the fur, I watched it blow in the wind. Each hair waving back and forth. I wasn't a fan of fur, but I had to admit; it was warm. “She won't. She died about two years ago.” “Well, then she doesn't need it now, does she?” I knew it was a morbid joke, but he laughed. And my insides rocketed with excitement. It was nice to have someone enjoy my sense of humor. All my life I had been that person who didn't say the right things at the right times, or maybe I cracked a joke that was colorful to say the least. But most ears didn't agree with

233/409

it, and often I was cast a glare of: 'How could you say that?' To see Hegan laughing and know I meant no harm, it felt amazing. “So what are the lids for? I'm curious.” Hegan curled his arms up over each other, hugging himself for warmth. It was cold as fuck out here, and with the wind blowing in off the ocean, it felt like it was well below freezing. His nose was turning a bright red, matching his cheeks. Sniffling with each breath, he rubbed his nose with his wrist. “Alright, come on,” I said, nodding for him to follow me. “Where are we going? It's really cold out, you know that?” I heard Hegan accentuate his sniffle, making it much louder than it needed to be. “That's why I said to dress warm. Don't be a baby, just follow me.” Heading towards the hill, I trucked through the snow. I was

234/409

happy I'd found the thick socks, otherwise the snow would have made my sneakers feel like sandals. Trudging up the hill, Hegan followed closely behind me. Turning at the top I handed him a lid. “What am I doing with this now?” He asked, twisting it back and forth in front of his shins. “You're going sledding with me.” Holding the lid up, I took a few steps back. Charging forward, I leaped onto it and slid down the hill on my stomach. An echo rolled over my shoulder from behind me. Hegan yelled, “Are you serious!?” “Yup!” I screamed back, as the wind whipped through my hair. The uneven snow caused the lid to jostle me around, jerking my body side to side. Slowly, sliding to a halt, I lifted myself up and turned to look back at Hegan. The hat he had on had fallen off and landed in the snow behind him. The wind spreading across his

235/409

face, pulled his cheeks back tight, and the yell escaping his mouth was priceless. He was yelping a sound of pure joy. An escape from inside that he hadn't probably felt since he was a young boy. If he was ever lucky enough to feel some sense of being a child at all. I wasn't sure if that was ever actually allowed by his father. From the man I had met, it probably wasn't. Watching him bounce and shake over the snow, I stood giggling. He was letting loose and it was a welcomed sight. Sliding to a slow stop, he laid on the trashcan lid, holding the handles firm between his fingers. “Well, I can honestly say I don't remember the last time I did this. And the lids...” Pushing himself up, he brushed the snow from his legs. “The lids are a first.” “Well us common folk sometimes had to improvise. And these work pretty well, huh?”

236/409

Arching my lip, I grinned from ear to ear. “Ready to go again? Can you handle going higher?” “Are you challenging me, Noella?” Picking up the makeshift sled, he cupped it under his arm. “If you want to race down this hill, I'm all for it. And let me warn you, you'll get blown out of the water.” Hegan lifted his head high, standing tall. Bringing his hand up, he brushed imaginary debris off his shoulders. With the sun shining over his back, he seemed to glow. Like a bronze statue on a pedestal, his broad shoulders appeared to span for miles, the cut angles of his face were boldly lined. He looked like a figure you'd see in the center of an old Italian street. My insides began to fill with a fuzzy warmth, rushing through my veins it hit each nerve and exploded. He was starting to wrap around my mind, and around my heart. I couldn't shake him out, even the idea of a

237/409

baby began to settle into a comforting feeling. Having a baby, his baby... Maybe it could work. The child could grow up in a world of endless possibilities; no dead ends, no lack of money and worry of bills. The child could have everything they needed and more. As long as Hegan was willing to be part of that. I needed to know, needed to find out what he expected. If he thought I would have this baby and he could continue to just run around doing the same shit he did before; it would never work. A baby deserves the best of both parents. He would need to be there for everything, and I might just be willing, if he can promise me that. Promise me that this baby will always have its father.

238/409

That was more important than all the money in the world. Shaking my head, I scurried up beside him. “You want to race? You do realize I'm a world champion sledder, right?” Cocking his head, he eyed me from the side. “Oh, did I forget to mention that? You don't know everything about me, Mr. Hegan Alexander. I might surprise you.” Shoving him at the hip, he stumbled and fell into the snow. Taking off up the hill, I ran as fast as my legs could carry me through the thick white fluff. “Hey! That's not cool! No cheating!” He yelled as he yanked himself up, charging behind me. My thighs were burning, each muscle strained to find traction and keep my pace. I could hear his feet pounding behind me, a hysterical laughter filled the air. His arm drove around my waist, dragging me down. He had tackled me, full blown tackled me into the snow.

239/409

Trying to catch my breath, Hegan climbed up onto my waist. “Where are you going to go now? You're stuck you cheater. I thought this was a fair challenge and you knock me into the snow.” He slid his hands down to my wrists, tugging my arms up over my head. Staring up into his eyes, a lustrous darkness had consumed his face. Sparks lit up across the shadowed pools, catching the falling sun's rays. I couldn't speak, no words formed in my head. I laid there speechless, trying to think but hearing only one thing. Kiss him. My heart raced, throat heaving down large gulps of air. This time, it was different. He wasn't throwing lines at me, trying to wet my panties. He wasn't baring his rippled chest, or hard arms. Hegan was looking right at me, right into my eyes; smiling a real smile. A true

240/409

expression of enjoyment streamed across his face. He looked happy. And not happy in the sense he was getting his way, or getting one step closer to having everything he wanted. This came from someplace else, someplace deep inside. A place he had bottled all the things in life he was supposed to enjoy but was never given the chance to. And I... I brought that out of him. I gave him a chance to open up, and be free. Free from the weight his father had placed on his shoulders so many years ago. He was free to be himself. I could feel the snow melting into my hair as it crunched beneath my head. Loosening his grip, I pulled one hand out and brushed the loose hair from Hegan's face. Small droplets of water hung at the tips, dangling carefully before finally hitting my chest. We both sat motionless, eyes fixed on each other. Walking my fingertips over his

241/409

neck, his skin felt cool. Softly he leaned in closer, brushing his lips against mine. The warmth of his breath spilled over my face, heating me to the core. Digging my nails into his neck, I pulled him in. Kissing him with need, desire; every emotion and feeling that wafted through my body was sent into that one kiss. Hegan's tongue twisted around mine, each twirl sending electricity through my muscles. The touch of our lips, the feel of his hands as they twined into my hair; it all felt different. This wasn't a kiss of raw animalistic passion, and pure lust. This went deeper. He kissed me like I wanted to be kissed, just like I've always thought a kiss should be. Imagine when you're a young girl and you dream of finding your prince charming. It was those sparks that ignited; that drove into my belly and through every piece of my body.

242/409

These feelings weren't false, or fabricated just to please the man who was keeping me chained here. I wasn't scared of him, I never was. Even with the demand for a baby; fear never plagued any inch of me. But this time when we kissed... It was real.

Chapter Thirteen Hegan What am I doing? It's not supposed to be this way. The feelings rode up my spine like a torrent of sand. Each grain seared up the bone, turning me numb. I couldn't feel anything around me, only her; only Noella. Shaking the snow out my of shoes and onto the kitchen floor, all I could do was smile; every piece of my body felt lighter than air. She was fun, happy, funny; nothing about her image screamed stripper. Except maybe the pumps she strolled around in, those fucking legs made it painful for me to walk. They were the smoothest, sexiest piece of a woman. And hers drove me fucking insane.

244/409

Slipping out of the cold wet pants, I crumpled them up and kicked them into the corner. A shadow spread across the floor, its shape forming against the sheen of lacquer. My lip pulled up, speaking with my back to the silhouette, I said, “How do my briefs look from that angle?” “Not what I expected, Sir.” The monotone voice shot into my ear, my surprise enhanced the sound as it coiled around my eardrums. Turning quickly, shock seeped over my face; my eyes bulged from their sockets, brows raising to my hair line. Dressed in a full tuxedo, one arm was rested across his chest, the other tucked behind his back; there stood Stefan, his face holding the same dull and lifeless expression as usual. What the fuck? Why the hell is he here? No one's supposed to be here. I couldn't understand why our butler was now standing in the kitchen of our summer

245/409

mansion, he was supposed to be back home in Westerly. This was my time here, my place of refuge to get the one thing I really needed. And now here was Stefan, propped like a fucking statue in the kitchen doorway. “Why the hell are you here, Stefan?” My eyes veered in tight, voice raspy as it pushed off the back of my throat. “Your father sent me, Sir. And thank you.” Stefan tilted his head a hair. Just enough so the light hit his forehead, shining down the bridge of his nose. “Thank you? For what?” Why was this man; who was obviously sent here as a pair of my parents eyes, thanking me? It made no sense. “For saying my name the proper way, Sir. Thank you.” His hand came up and shuffled his tie. Rolling my eyes, I dragged my fingertips across my scalp. Tracing the edge of my chin,

246/409

I paced back and forth staring at him. I didn't know what to say or think. I only knew one thing; I needed him gone. “Alright, well I don't need you here. Go back home,” I huffed out, holding my palm up. “Sorry, Sir, I can't do that. Your father ordered me to stay, told me to take care of you and...” Pausing briefly, Stefan gulped down a swallow of air. “Your lady friend, Sir.” Figures, it fucking figures! Here my dad was again trying to control my life! The whole reason I came here to begin with was to be alone, away from prying eyes. How the fuck was this going to work now? I was getting Noella exactly where I wanted her; rolling in my palms. Well, maybe a slight piece of me was feeling a twinge more than that. But that was it, only a small piece felt different about her.

247/409

There was no way I would let any of my feelings get in the way of my goal; a baby. I couldn't let that happen. And now Stefan? This damn stalker of a butler, sent by my dad. I called him a stalker because I swear, that guy just pops up out of thin air all the time. At home he'd be nowhere around, then I'd turn a corner and boom; there he was, holding whatever I might have been looking for. And sometimes he'd just have an answer or suggestion to my problem. I never understood how the hell he did it. And it was fucking creepy. “No Stefan, go home.” The sound of pure anger rolled off my tongue. I didn't want to yell at him; didn't want Noella to hear us. But I wanted him gone. Lunging toward the island dividing us, I threw my hands down. “You need to leave, now.” I spoke through gritted teeth.

248/409

“Hegan, Sir, your father gave me very specific instructions. You're going to have to call him if you want me to leave.” Stefan folded his hands together behind his back, rocking on his feet. Rubbing my forehead, I dragged my fingers down my cheeks. “Fuck, Stefan. What the fuck?” Dropping my arms to my hips, I circled the counter. “I'm going to call my dad. For now you need to go sit in another room, and stay there.” Lifting a single finger to his face I asked, “Can you do that?” Stefan warily shook his head yes. As he twisted to walk away, her soft voice echoed through the hallway. “Hegan, is everything alright?” Stopping short, Noella caught sight of the butler. “Oh, hi. I'm Noella.” Her hand extended out as her back went straight. Holding her hand gently, Stefan shook it briefly and released it as though she felt like a hot pan. “Miss,” he said, nodding his head.

249/409

“Noella, this is Stefan. He's one of the butlers for my family, and he was just leaving.” Turning my neck slowly, I glared at him. “Right, Stefan?” “Yes. If you need anything, I'll be in the library.” And with that he was gone. For now. As much as he wasn't hovering right over us, just knowing he was a spit away made me angry. This wasn't what I wanted, it was the last thing I wanted. Martha's Vineyard was supposed to be my escape, my fence to keep her in; keep her with me. But this changed everything. I needed him gone. Now. Noella's hand draped over my shoulder. “You okay? You look like you saw a ghost.” “Yeah, I'm fine.” Forcing the words out, I peered at the floor. “Are you sure?” she asked, angling her head up, eyes fixed on mine.

250/409

“Yeah, it's just my dad. He sent the butler here, probably to keep an eye on us. I hate that shit. He always has to have a bird's eye view of what I'm doing.” “I can see how that's annoying. But it's no biggie.” I felt her fingertips swirl across my back, gliding over each bulging muscle. I started to relax; felt a sense of calmness when I'd normally be stewing everything around inside my head. Usually, I'd let the anger consume me; then I'd go out, do something stupid and throw it in my dad's face. And if he didn't know about what I did as a 'fuck you' to his control, I'd get to laugh about it inside my head while he was standing in front of me. It was a relief to not feel that rage, to not let it eat me from the inside out. For once, I was happy to have someone here to balance me; tell me not to worry and let it go.

251/409

My hands that had started to twitch, lungs that had begun to burn as I pulled oxygen in; it all drifted away. Noella had the touch and voice of an angel. I can't believe I even used that term, it's so corny. But that's how I'd explain her in that moment, an angel releasing the anger pent up inside me. “I have a few things to take care of before dinner.” “Dinner?” “Yeah, I have to feed you don't I?” A light chuckle broke the tension. Looking into her gray eyes, I caught my reflection. Her pupils had grown to the edge of color, only a tint of gray still spread around the outside. I looked like shit. My hair was tossed in different directions, a thick stubble crawled across my jaw. Damn, I can't let myself go like this. I look like I got run over by a fucking train.

252/409

“Yeah, you do,” she said, throwing an elbow into my ribs. “Why don't you relax in your room and I'll come get you when I'm done.” “Or, maybe, I can check out this library I hear you have? A good book would be better than sitting, twiddling my thumbs.” Noella cocked her head to the side, pushing out her lower lip to pout. I had to think about it, I had just sent Stefan in there. But what would the harm be if she just went in and looked around? Puckering my mouth, I cupped my jaw between my thumb and forefinger. “Alright, follow me.” She was right, I didn't want her to sit around being bored. And possibly dwelling on whether or not she should let me fuck her again, or about having my baby. A book could keep her mind busy and her thoughts from drifting. Outside in the snow, I felt her; felt her reaching closer to me. And it felt amazing.

253/409

I didn't want to let myself get wrapped up in her, but it was too late; I knew that already. I hadn't expected to start falling for this girl, and right now I could feel myself climbing that ladder. Noella let out an excited squeal, wiggling her fingers rapidly. “I know I might sound like a nerd, but I love reading. I'm excited to see this library.” “Yup, you sound like a geek alright.” My feet hit the marble tiles as we walked down the hallway. The pounding matched the rhythm of my heart beat. For some reason I was nervous, and fucking sweating like a teenage boy. “Hey! I didn't say geek, I said nerd. Those are two totally different types of people.” “Sure, if it makes you feel better.” My eyes opened wide, brows lifting to the ceiling.

254/409

Her hand came up and swatted my back. “It is.” She sternly said as she pushed her chin up higher. We walked up to two large double doors, meticulously etched with old Mayan details. A large Mayan calendar and astronomical signs were deeply carved into the mahogany wood. “Wow,” Noella said, as her fingertips traced the pictures. “My dad's been big into that shit for years. He's all about their prophecies and the stars.” Yanking on the large metal pull, the door swung open with a soft creak. I watched her jaw drop, hitting her neck. Noella spun in a circle as we entered the massive room. Her eyes shifted between all the shelves stacked with books, making their way over to the telescope resting in the window.

255/409

“This is incredible. Why didn't you show me this before?” she asked, bringing her face inches from the array of books at eye level. “I didn't know you'd be interested.” “I told you, there's a lot you don't know about me, Hegan.” Her lids slit tight, narrowing to look at me down her nose. “But you didn't exactly care to find out either.” She tugged a book off the shelf and flipped through the pages. That statement stung, and at the time I didn't understand why. She was right, I found out the bare minimum. I only knew about her mom because of Gloria and her runaway mouth. If Gloria hadn't let that slip during our conversation, I wouldn't have this leverage. “Excuse me, Sir, can I be of any assistance?” For that brief moment I'd forgotten that Stefan was even there. He'd been tucked away in the corner, blending in with the statues my dad acquired over the years.

256/409

“No. We're fine, Stefan. Noella wants to check out the books.” Turning to look at her I asked, “Do you see anything? I need to go get a few things done—” “Go ahead, I can find my way back,” she said, cutting me off. “I'd like to look around if you don't mind.” I was hesitant, I didn't want to leave her alone with him. What if Stefan got nosy? Started asking her questions? The last thing I needed was my dad finding out what the hell I was doing. He needed to think this was the real deal; a real woman hanging over my arm. Not a stripper I'd bought for myself only to have a baby; the baby he demanded I gave him. My stomach started to churn; fear of what my dad might do or take away from me; began boiling inside my gut.

257/409

“Don't worry, Hegan. I'll make sure she gets back to her room just fine.” Stefan stepped forward, nodding his head. What the fuck should I do? Do I let her roam around in here with him? Leaning into her ear I whispered. “Don't tell this man too much, he can't be trusted.” Glaring up at me under hooded lids, she dropped her eyes back to the book. Gripping her shoulder I shot a glance back at Stefan and walked out of the room. I wasn't going to be gone long, that I was sure of. I only needed to make one call. To my father.

Chapter Fourteen Noella I could feel him watching me, his piercing eyes burrowed into my back. Steadily, I shoved the book back onto the shelf, peeking over my shoulder. Stefan was standing motionless, arms tugged back behind him. He didn't look like he could be much older than Hegan, maybe thirty-five. Flashing a light smile, I ran my fingers over the wave of books. He looked harmless, a man sent here to do a job. Stefan was a butler, a servant to the family. What was Hegan so worried about? The man had stood behind me, voiceless and stone still; just watching. Which was a little creepy in its own right, but maybe that's

259/409

how this goes. I didn't know, I never had a butler or maids, everything in my house was kept up by us. I had grown up doing chores, running errands, typical stuff any normal person does. Having someone around to do all that for me seemed so bizarre. Stefan wasn't eyeing anything else in the room, just me. And that was more uncomfortable to me than standing on a stage, removing my clothes. At least at Tigress I had a little control. A choice in who got close. There was no option with this one, he was just there, staring blanking. Clearing my throat, I asked, “So, have you worked for Hegan's family for a long time?” Nodding his head, Stefan adjusted his jacket. “A couple years, Miss.” “Please, call me Noella.” Spotting a bright blue binding, I gripped the edge and pulled it out.

260/409

“Noella what?” His eyes drifted from me to the book. “Good choice, The Mayor of Casterbridge.” “Rawlinson. Noella Rawlinson.” Thumbing through the pages, I pushed it back into its place between the others. “Do you like books, Stefan?” “Very much, Miss...” Tripping over his tongue, he said, “Noella.” Bringing his palms up to smooth his hair, he asked, “How long have you been with Hegan?” Shooting him a glance, my lips pursed tight. “That question has nothing to do with books. I ask you about books and you ask me about him?” I felt like I was making him nervous. Stefan's gaze began to dart around the room, mouth making noises to speak but unable to muster up the sound. “Well, it's... it's just...” A soft cough gurgled in his throat. “He hasn't mentioned you, and I'm around him a lot. I just thought he would have said something.”

261/409

“Well, you're his butler, does he normally tell you everything?” I asked, slitting my lids. I didn't mind the question so much, except it came out of nowhere. A question about if he liked books wasn't one that should be followed with that. What a strange man. I thought as my eyes furrowed against the bindings. “I'm sorry, I don't mean to pry.” He stared at the floor, fingers wildly curling around each other. Shaking my head, I grabbed the first book my hand touched. “We've known each other for a little while.” Maybe I was just reading too much into that. It could just be innocent wonder. Stefan jerked his head up. I had given him an answer, small insight to his curiosities. What harm was there answering a question? Hegan had said he couldn't be trusted, but I wasn't going to say the things I knew Hegan was afraid of.

262/409

I'm not stupid. And even if I was going to run off and tell someone, it wouldn't be to the family butler. “Mr. Alexander has some reserve about you, Noella. Please don't be offended by my questions.” “Did he send you here to grill me? What's he afraid of? His son leaving him?” Chuckling, I turned to face him, hand falling to my hip. “No, not that. Honestly, the sooner Hegan grows up, the better.” Stefan huffed under his breath. “So you mean the immature man, who tackled me outside earlier, hasn't grown up yet?” My jaw cocked out to the side, a large grin rested on my face. “Ah, so you've seen it too?” I watched his shoulders relax, slumping forward. He was finally getting comfortable, settled, Stefan was letting his guard down. He didn't need to be so wound up around

263/409

me. I never had this type of life growing up, and even though he didn't know it, I couldn't stand the sight of someone just being there to wait on me. “Well he certainly doesn't scream adult, you know? Especially being...” Realizing I didn't know how old Hegan actually was, my words trailed off. “Twenty-five, he's twenty-five.” Stepping closer, he began to rummage through the array of books. “And you're?” “Twenty- three.” Pushing a strand of hair behind my ear, I felt embarrassed. I was supposed to be 'dating' this guy and I didn't really know anything about him. How am I going to play pretend if I don't even know the basics? His age, where he went to school, what his friggin family did for a living. Shit, I only found that out earlier in the day. I was going to have to sit down and start asking him some questions. In order for me

264/409

to play the role Hegan wanted, he was going to have to give me something to work with. And sooner than later, I was going to have to really decide what I wanted to do. Have his baby, or get the fuck out of here. “And what does your family do? Rawlinson doesn't ring a bell. I don't believe I've heard that name before.” Fuck, fuck, fuck. My last name, it's not one of the fancy socialites names that get thrown around. What the hell do I do? I needed to think quick, come up something to move him away from my family. “Do you know every family in the state?” “Well, no. But—” “But, nothing,” I said, cutting him off. I didn't have to answer his questions. Reminding myself, I don't have to answer anything or do anything I don't want to. Stefan was the butler, even if Brandon had sent him to question me, I didn't need to give him any details I didn't want to.

265/409

Pushing his hand over his neck, he said, “I'm just trying to make sure that you're here for the right reasons. The Alexander family has a lot to give and a lot to lose.” “Yeah, so I've heard. And Hegan has fallen right on the edge of losing, right?” “Did he tell you that? What did he say? His father has to do something before his entire life's work is blown by Hegan and his one track mind.” Narrowing his brows, his pupils dilated as he set them on my face. “Hegan, he's trouble. Always has been. When he's gone, it will be a brighter day.” “What do you mean?” I asked, tilting my head. He said it with such distaste, such disgust. As if Hegan was the source of a problem, an issue that needed rectifying. Was I being led on? Lied to? Is Hegan using me for something else? I thought he had been pretty straight forward. The fact he just laid the baby card on me,

266/409

that was fuel enough to think Hegan was desperate. Maybe this butler, this paid helping hand, had no idea himself what was going on. Stefan's eyes glazed over, as they opened wide. A realization of what he said taking over his expression. “I'm sorry, let me stop here. Are you all set? Did you find a book?” Tapping my jaw, I turned back to the bright blue book that he had suggested. Tugging it out, I clutched it against my chest. “Yeah, I think I'm ready now.” His mouth turned up, cheeks flushing a pale pink. “I'll lead you back. Please, after you,” he said, extending his arm towards the door. Walking back to my room in silence, Stefan walked one step behind me. And his gaze still burned into my core. I didn't want to make eye contact with him, didn't want him to see how uncomfortable I was.

267/409

He had just let out a small piece of the hatred he had for Hegan to me. A mistake he knew he made, I could tell by the look on his face. His pale skin was white, mouth taut against his jaw. He was kicking himself in the ass, sorry he had opened his lips at all. I had the feeling when he started questioning me that it was Brandon who was curious, he basically said it. But now a piece of me felt different. His motives weren't clear for where he was trying to go with anything, and I hoped I hadn't said too much. Things were already fucked up enough, making them worse wouldn't help shit. Approaching my door, I glanced over my shoulder and said, “Thank you, I'm all set now.” Nodding, Stefan twisted and went back in the direction we came. I stood watching him leave, waiting till he was out of sight before going inside.

268/409

Slipping in, I closed my eyes and let my head fall against the door. “Took you long enough.” The thick bass of his voice crashed into my skull. Jumping, my stomach shot into my throat. Hegan was sitting in the old Victorian chair against the far wall. His arms were draped over the deep velvet green fabric, his body slouching so his back had support. It was comical to see a man his size, trying to fit into a chair built for a child. Letting my lungs restart, I huffed out the air they were clenching tight. “What are you doing?” “I was waiting for you.” Twirling a pen between his fingers, he leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees. “I thought you had stuff to take care of?” Tossing the book onto the bed, I walked closer to him. Why is he waiting in here? What the hell does he think I did?

269/409

Hegan's head fell toward the rug. “It's all set. What took you so long?” he asked, as his eyes returned to me. “There's a lot of books in there. What's with the third degree?” “Did he say anything to you?” “He said enough for me to know he's not fond of you.” Folding my arms across my chest, my head canted towards my shoulder. “Well I knew that already. Did he say anything else? Why he was here, or ask questions about you?” Bringing his hands together, I watched his knuckles turn white. “He asked me a few things.” “What did he want to know?” Shoving himself up from the chair, he stood inches from my face. “Fuck, Hegan. I didn't tell him anything about why you brought me here.” Stepping backwards, irritation coated my voice. “I'm not a fucking idiot, Hegan. I don't need you to spell shit out for me.”

270/409

Dragging his fingers through his hair, he pulled it tight against his head. “I know, it's just that guy works for my dad. Not for me. He'll do anything to see me gone. Anything.” “Why? Why does it matter? Didn't you say it was your father who was going to take everything from you?” Hegan gazed at me with large open eyes, shaking his head yes. “Then who cares about Stefan, he's a butler, not your father's personal adviser, right?” “Yeah, but he's in with my dad. He can do some damage if he wanted to, I'm sure.” Pausing, he spoke under his breath. “It wouldn't be the first time.” Resting my hand over his shoulder, I had the urge to comfort him, cradle him and let him know everything would be fine. It was the strangest feeling, to feel a sense of sympathy towards the man who was trying to impose getting me knocked up. But he looked so worried, so unsure of what was going to happen. And I was getting

271/409

pulled in, driven by my need to help others. It's my biggest flaw, one I have been well aware of. Yet, it was so hard for me to grasp and hold onto my inner voice; the one screaming for me to run away, to get the fuck out before I'm in too deep. I could hear it loud and clear. Don't Noella! He probably made this mess himself, it's not your job to clean it up! Go home! Go home and help the ones who really need you. “Hegan, don't worry about him. But in order for me to go any further, I need some answers. I need to know what's going on, and you have to be honest.” Catching his gaze, he peered into my eyes. I watched his iris' change, reflecting back light from the small lamp next to the chair. A gold-orange color encased his pupils; a momentary flash that hardened the edges.

272/409

Shivers ran down my spine, tearing through my legs. I felt them weaken, shaking to hold me straight. Gripping his shoulder tighter, it was as if he knew I needed him to hold me up. Hegan wrapped his arm around my waist, pulling me into his chest. “Are you saying you're willing to do this?” The hot air from his lips swept over my ear. I couldn't speak, I didn't really want to say it out loud. Maybe it was fear that if I vocalized the words then everything would be truly real. My voice, the words, all meshed together, my brain wouldn't aid my tongue in speaking. Shaking my head up and down, I had sealed my fate. A baby. It was a choice I had to think about, a decision that wasn't made lightly. I didn't do it just for him and how sorry I felt for Hegan in that moment. This was going to help my family too.

273/409

I hadn't forgotten about them, and this could mean a world of difference to my mom. She needed treatment, she deserved it. And with the insurance deciding what they would or wouldn't cover... It had left my parents practically bankrupt. They're a stone's throw away from losing their home, being out on the streets. I didn't want that for them. I didn't want that for Hegan. Money wasn't supposed to be what ruled lives, or ruined lives. This was going to save us all. I hoped.

Chapter Fifteen Hegan Did that really happen? Did she actually agree to do it? She did. Noella didn't say it directly, but her head affirmed it. And I was happy as a pig in shit. I never expected she would just give in. I thought for sure she would've resisted till the very end. Yes, I told her she didn't have a choice, but that didn't mean shit. She could've left, the door was open. My bribery, the allegations of yanking the help from her mom; that was all bullshit. I might be desperate, but I'm not a complete fucking asshole. Good thing she didn't know that.

275/409

I wasn't sure if that was what saved my ass or not, either way I didn't care. Noella was giving me all I needed. She had just removed a bolder off my shoulders, and my body felt light as air. Walking to my mirror, I peeled my shirt up over my head. Dropping it to the floor, I stared into my reflection. Noella was melting like hot wax over my brain. I was more than excited she'd agreed, but a piece of me was twinging with something different. Shaking my head, I wanted to shove it out, push it away and forget it was ever there. Gripping the sink, I squeezed the porcelain rim. My fingers burned as all the blood was forced out and away. Dropping my head into my chest, I knew she had grown on me; more than expected, and more than I wanted. She's agreeing to have your child, that's probably what this is. It had to be.

276/409

It's not real, I won't let it be real. I couldn't let myself get close to her, she was just a pawn; my bullet in the barrel. That was it. Splashing my face with cold water, a chilled exhale escaped my lungs. I needed her out, out of my thoughts so I could stay focused. If I let myself fall in too deep, I had no idea what would happen. Get your shit together, don't do this. You can't do this. Watching a single drop of water balance on the edge of my nose, I stood motionless, waiting to see how long it would take to tear itself free. Waiting and watching, it sat steady as if it was looking back at me. That lone drop of water, opaque and shining under the lights, only trembled at the edge. And all I could think of was her. Noella. She had a smile that saturated the air I tried to breathe; strengthening my

277/409

purpose. There was something more driving me, not just the demand of my father... I wanted to make her mine, in every way. That little stunt with the sledding was the first time I could think of being really happy. She was confident in herself, confident in who she was. Noella didn't walk in a straight line, that would've been too boring. She followed her own path, chasing her own set of rules. But always thought of those around her, and their happiness. I could see it, she bared her body just to give her mother a fighting chance. That's what I wanted, all of it; all of her. A loud knock against the door caused my head to jerk, the small ball of water became lost in the drain. “Yeah?” I yelled. “Sir, it's me. Can I come in and talk to you?” What the fuck does he want? Tearing the towel off the rack, I wiped my face dry as I walked to the door. Tugging it open, I

278/409

wrapped the towel around my neck. “What do you want?” “Sir, I need to talk to you about Noella.” Stefan was standing straight, tapping the tip of his shiny shoes against the wood floor. “No, Stefan, you don't.” Still holding the door, I attempted to close it. Pushing his hand against the wood, Stefan said, “Hegan, she's not who you think she is.” “I don't care what you think, I talked to my dad and you can go home by the way. I was going to tell you after, but since you're here now, go home” Rolling my head, I wanted to slam the door in his face. He didn't like me, I got that loud and clear. Since he came to work for my family it was like he despised my existence. I could feel it. He didn't think I deserved any of what was coming to me, instead he wanted it to come to him..

279/409

Stefan didn't have to say it; the way he kissed my dad's ass, had his nose shoved so far up it he could smell his insides, that said enough. He was our butler, but he went well beyond his title. If my father barked, he was right there listening. I think he thought I should have been doing the same. But that's not who I am. I'm Hegan Alexander, not Brandon the second. And Stefan could fucking shove it. I wasn't going to stand here and listen to him trying to convince me of some fucking story he thinks he found out. That guy had no clue what was going on between Noella and me. And it was none of his business. After calling my dad, I was finally able to convince him that the butler wasn't needed. I knew when he showed up it was to spy on us, my dad basically confirmed it.

280/409

He said he just wanted to make sure that everything at the house was good. He figured a little extra help here would ensure I didn't do anything stupid, like ruin the place. Yup, he trusted me, right? But after a pretty intense yelling match, he said I could send Stefan home. Which, even if he'd said no, Stefan was leaving one way or another. I wasn't going to let him stay. “Excuse me? Your father sent me here, and I plan on telling him everything I know, Hegan. About her and who she is.” He raised his face to mine, his beady eyes glazing over. This fucking guy was trying to threaten me. What could he possibly know? That she isn't royalty like my father would want? That was the least of my worries. “Stefan, go home. I don't care what you tell my father.” I felt my muscles tense, rigid and hard against the skin. Each one pressed

281/409

angrily to be used, I was ready to fucking hit him. “No? You don't care? Well what if I said I spoke with Gloria?” An evil smirk peeked over the edge of his jaw, lifting up slowly towards his ear. “What?” Balling my fists, I elbowed the door fully open, the handle smacked against the wall as I muffled, “What did you say?” “Don't worry, Sir. I'm sure your dad won't mind a bit, right?” Baring my teeth, a heavy growl fell from my throat. “Mind your own business, Stefan.” Shock, fear, anger; it all hit my stomach like a wrecking ball. He was trying to instigate me, get me riled up so I would crack. What was that going to do for him? He wanted me gone; always has. Was this his way of trying to push that ladder out from under me? Motherfucker, he was a dick. That fucking asshole was trying

282/409

to cement his place in my home, in my life... But this? This was a side of him I didn't see coming. An ominous chuckle rolled off his tongue, head tipping back slightly. “Hegan, this is my business. And when you're gone, when you're left with nothing...” Stefan closed his eyes tight, shaking his head. “I'll finally get what's coming to me, what your father owes me.” “Owes you? My dad doesn't owe you shit! What do you think, huh? That with me out of the picture he's going to give you thousands of dollars?” “Be ready, Hegan. Maybe you should start packing now.” He turned and started down the hall, whistling loudly it radiated off the walls. What the hell is going on? What the fuck is he trying to do to me? Nothing was making sense, none of the pieces seemed to fit

283/409

together. Stefan wasn't getting anything if I was gone. Was he? No. He had to be crazy. Unless my dad had his hands in this too. Gripping the door, I slammed it shut. The walls rattled to the ceiling, shaking everything around me. I didn't know exactly what Gloria had told him, what information she gave away. If he knew about me buying her for a baby, that could seal my fate right there. My insides boiled with a mix of rage and fear. Fear wasn't something I was used to feeling. And I didn't like it. I was always in control, always the one to call the shots. Lately it seemed my hands had been getting bound in all directions. Nothing was coming easy, but now Noella was mine. At least I had her, she was all I really needed.

284/409

Pacing wildly around the room, my fingers drove through my hair, tearing at the roots. This could be bad, this could be so fucking bad. She agreed, now this? Glancing at the clock I had to get my shit together. I was having dinner with Noella in twenty minutes, and I couldn't go in all worked up over Stefan. Tugging my white t-shirt over my head, I hit my neck with some cologne and headed downstairs. Standing in the entryway, I watched for headlights. I had ordered Chinese food, not exactly romantic, but I'm no chef. When you spend your entire life having people do shit for you; cooking gets thrown out the window. Why learn when you don't have to? Right? ***

285/409

Lighting the last candle, a delicate clicking sound reverberated through the air. Here she comes. It looks perfect. Checking the table, everything was exactly how I wanted it. This was dinner for us, just her and myself. Stefan was off in another end of the house, hopefully packing his bags to leave tomorrow. As she turned the corner it was like her feet hit rough pavement. She stopped, mouth hanging open, eyes flickering in unison with the candle flames. “What's this?” Noella asked, the tiny sparks igniting in the gunmetal of her stare. “Well, it looks like dinner to me. Homemade too.” It didn't matter how upset and angry I had just felt not thirty minutes ago, once I saw her, everything drained away. The room seemed to brighten, her face glowing with warmth. “Homemade?” she

286/409

asked smiling, ear reaching towards her shoulder. “Well, it was made by someone. That counts doesn't it?” Shrugging my shoulders, I held my hands out. “Not exactly, but we can go with it.” She laughed as she stepped in. “I take it you don't cook?” “Let's just say you're better off if I don't cook.” Reaching for her chair, I pulled it out. “Please, sit.” “Thank you.” Noella spoke softly, hair brushing across her cheeks. Wiping it away she said, “It smells good. I love Chinese, and it's fun to cook too.” “You cook?” My brow arched up, as I sat. “I wouldn't have thought you liked cooking.” “And why not? You keep forgetting—” Finishing her sentence, I said, “I know, I don't know everything about you.” Nodding my head, I poured us both a glass of wine. “But that's what we're going to take care of.

287/409

You said you needed answers and stuff...” I brought the glass to my lips, taking a sip. “So now's your chance.” Watching her face flush, the orange flame brushed her skin, dancing across each dip and curve. She was so intoxicating, I couldn't take my eyes off her. Noella was exactly who the word beauty was made for. A lot of people think that in order to be beautiful you need to have flawless skin, and a perfect body; but that is far from the truth. Looking into her eyes, I knew there was more to that word. I felt her, not just saw her. Noella drove prickles up my back, she made it hard to breathe when she entered a room. And when her voice spilled from behind her plump lips, my entire world stood still. To be beautiful, truly beautiful, you only needed to do one thing. Be yourself.

288/409

And she never stepped outside who she was. Sure when I met her she was Copper, stripper and cock teaser extraordinaire. But right here, right now, she was Noella. This was the reason I hadn't found anyone before. Because there was no one else like her. Pursing her lips, each small wrinkle rolled across the gloss. She was thinking, tapping her finger against her chin. “Alright, we'll start small. What's your birthday?” “Really? I tell you to ask me something and that's what your first question is?” “Hey! If I have to pretend to be your girlfriend and at some point I'm supposed to have your child, then these are things I need to know.” “Alright, alright,” I said, holding my hands up, palms out. “September third, nineteen- ninety, happy?” “Very. Okay, your turn.” Her slender finger rolled out, directing me to speak.

289/409

“My turn?” “Yeah, your turn. You should know shit about me too.” “Hm, give me a second.” Looking at the ceiling, I shifted between her and the skylight. There was plenty of things I wanted to know about her, but my head was blank. “Okay, where did you grow up?” “Coventry. Until a year ago, then we moved to Providence. You know I said that at lunch?” A thin brow pulled up, lips remaining parted. God, this woman is beautiful. I couldn't take my eyes off her, even the tiniest detail of her face kept me mesmerized. “Yeah, well, lunch was a bit distracting for me. If you hadn't realized that already. Why did you move?” “Uh, uh, uh.” She clicked her tongue against the roof of her mouth, waving a single finger. “One question at a time, it's my turn.” Picking up her fork, she poked around

290/409

the food on her plate. “What's your middle name?” she said, sliding a piece of chicken into her mouth. “Skip.” With her mouth half full, she mumbled. “No, you can't skip. What is it?” “Really? I don't want to say it, it's embarrassing.” “Come on, no one likes their middle name, it's a fact. So spit it out already, it can't be that bad.” “Fine. But let me go on record saying I don't want to hear it ever again.” Rolling my eyes, the word fell out as a whisper. “Regan.” Chuckling, she brought her napkin to her face. “What? Really? Regan?” Her laugh grew louder as she said it together. “Hegan Regan?” I watched her body shake with each attempt to inhale, trying to contain her laughter. “Yes, can we move on now?” My lip curled at the corner. I hated my middle

291/409

name, but it was comical. I couldn't deny the fact that the two names rhymed with each other, and to this day I had no idea what my parents were thinking. “Okay, I'm sorry. Go, your turn.” Her lips sealed tight, small giggles still emanating from inside her throat. “Why did you move?” Noella stopped smiling immediately. Her body tensed up, back going stiff. “Well, that's when my mom got sick. We moved to be closer to the hospital she's been in.” Resting her fork on the table, her fingers began to wrap around each other. “I'm sorry, that has to be tough.” I didn't really know what to say. I've never been in a situation like that before. No one close to me has ever been gravely ill or come close to death. So finding the words to give her some form of comfort wasn't easy. But that's what I wanted to do. I had the overwhelming urge to grab her and hold her,

292/409

tell her I would fix her mom and it would all be fine. Wow, where is this coming from? I've never felt like this before, never wanted to do anything I could to help someone else. Watching her entire frame fill with worry and fear, it pained me; hitting me right in the gut. Her pain had become my pain, and I needed to stop it, for her. Noella shook her head. “It's alright. It'll be okay.” Her lungs started to rapidly fill with air, nose squeaking as she took in slow deep breaths. She was on the brink of crying. “Yes, it will be. I'll make sure of it, I promise.” Lifting her eyes to mine, the welling water balanced on the edges of her lids. “You can't promise me that, Hegan. Even if you did give her everything she could ever need, you can't promise that.” My stomach whirled with a feeling I wasn't familiar with. Was it sadness?

293/409

Uncertainty? Or just human nature to feel her emotions? I didn't know. I've spent years burying anything and everything if it tried to clench my insides. Those feelings weren't welcomed in my world, and I learned early on that my feelings didn't really matter. “Noella, I'm going to make sure your mom gets what she needs. I can promise you that.” Wrapping my fingers around hers, I squeezed firmly. “And I'm serious. Regardless of anything else, I can promise you that.” Her shoulders rolled forward, sniffling into her napkin. I could tell she was close to her mother, this hit her deep. A single tear crested her lid, trailing down her cheek. Cupping her chin, my thumb brushed the drop away. Every nerve in my body became charged, firing rapidly. Noella deserved a life where she didn't have to worry, didn't have to struggle. My brain started to toil over my

294/409

goal and my feelings. What the hell am I doing? Is this worth it? Worth everything? “Why do you need me to have your baby? You said you'd lose everything, but I need more. Why?” Narrowing her eyes, she searched my face, searched me for the answer. Her need to understand the entirety of this and what I put on her; plagued every muscle in her face. Taking a deep breath, I gave her the reason she was looking for. “On my birthday, my dad told me I needed to give him a grandchild. He said if I didn't, then he was going take everything from me. Everything.” Tearing my eyes from hers, my hands fell limp. “I don't want to live on the street, in an alley. I need this.” “So were both screwed, huh?” “I don't know, Noella.” Spinning my fork against the table, I couldn't look at her. I've

295/409

been trying to keep my head straight, focused on what was supposed to happen. But it was getting harder to do. Everything I had been so sure of was slowly dissolving around me. I didn't have the answer anymore.

Chapter Sixteen Noella My mind had been made up, he was getting what he wanted. Was I nervous about that? Afraid of what my future would be like with a baby in the picture? The answer was simple. No. I was more afraid of what my mother would go through if I didn't. Watching Hegan fiddle with his fork, tossing food around his plate like a child trying to avoid vegetables, I could tell he felt differently. He didn't know what his future looked like, or what the hell he wanted out of his life. The only thing he had been focused on was the money coming to him. Money that in

297/409

the end wouldn't do shit to really make him happy. “Hegan, what do you want out of this besides money?” Tilting my jaw, a single curl broke free, framing my eye. “What do you mean?” Confusion filled his face, brows forcing down, wrinkles riding up to the crest of his forehead. “You probably could have hired a lawyer to fight your dad's offer, but you decided to just go for the baby. Why? I know you're not stupid, a baby is a lot of work.” Hegan sat still, an open gaze fixed across his face. His mouth was thin as a razor, no words forming against his tongue. Shaking his head, eyes falling back to his plate, he didn't have an answer to give. “You don't know?” I said, lip perching to the side. My hand wrapped around his wrist, fingers gently circling the ink. “What's the first thing that comes to mind when I ask you, what do you want?” Tracing the deep

298/409

lines penetrating his skin, I watched goosebumps ride up his arm. Licking his lips, he forced out hot oxygen from his lungs. “You,” he said, jerking his head up. “That's what I think, I want you.” I didn't expect that, every inch of me went numb. Chills ran over my body, the hair on my neck standing as the words reached my brain. What? He can't be serious, can he? My walls that had been protecting me started to crumble, withering away as he spoke. Hegan didn't break his fixed stare, he peered into my eyes, his entire body trembling subtly in his seat. “What?” That was all I could mutter out. I felt like I had been torn out of my body. My lungs seized, muscles tensing with a wanton need to just leap over the damn table and kiss him. “You're the first thing that came to my head, you.” Leaning in, he brushed the curl

299/409

behind my ear. “I don't think you realize how incredible you truly are.” Lifting my head, he caressed the exposed flesh of my neck. No. No. He doesn't know what he's saying. This was a job, a cash job. A baby for him and all the help I could get for my mom. How could he sit there and try to steal my heart too? I already agreed to give him what he wanted! Why is he doing this? Parting my lips, I tried to speak, but only a voiceless huff spilled out. My throat gurgled with sound, short pants rolled off my tongue. Finally finding my voice, I said, “Hegan, you don't know what your saying.” “Yes, I do.” He pulled on my face, stretching my back forward, bringing me closer to his chiseled jaw. His mouth brushed against my cheek, whispering into my ear. “I know what I want, I'm just sorry it took me so long to find it.” His dampened lips pressed

300/409

against my skin, light kisses floating down to my neck. Rolling my head, my eyes fell back inside my skull. Colors started to shoot across my lids; blues, greens, yellows. The bright flashes coated my brain, dripping down to my belly, and driving the butterflies into a rampant storm. Draping my hands over his shoulders, I dug my nails into the muscles of his back. It was a raw, feral heat between us. Sweat broke across his skin, emerging in small droplets as he pulled me onto his lap. I had surrendered to my feelings, to the smoldering coals burning in my gut. His palms opened against my upper back, slowly trailing down my spine. Shivers transcended across my skin, head falling back, a light moan escaped into the dimly lit room. Rocking my hips against his waist, I could feel his bulge pressing up. The thick cock massaged my clit as we glided our bodies

301/409

together. Every thought that hung on chains around my brain had ceased. Having his baby, the debt I had... All of it. Gone. In that moment it was just the two of us, nothing else mattered. “Noella,” he moaned. “God, you're beautiful.” His hands gripped the base of my head, mouth pressing firmly against my lips. His tongue slid between the smooth flesh, tangling with mine. Each muscle twirled together, wrapping wildly. Every feeling that I'd brushed away and coaxed into the steel vault I created, had streamed to life. Hegan made me feel like I was at the top of the highest drop of a roller coaster; adrenaline purged my veins, a rush that couldn't be replicated. A rush I never wanted to end. Grabbing the collar of his shirt, I tore it over his head, dropping it to the floor. Hegan was built hard as cement. Dragging my

302/409

fingers down his stomach, his abs rippled like an ocean current. The warmth between my thighs, drove harder onto his cock, grinding down onto his jeans. I felt like the floor was dropping from beneath my feet, the walls around me faded into a blackness. Hegan had completely consumed me. “This might sound crazy, but I wish this wouldn't end,” I said, rubbing my clit faster against his hidden cock. Hegan pressed my hips down, gyrating up to meet my pace. “You don't have to wish, I'm not holding you hostage. But I won't let you go.” Hegan's face held firm, a wall of one emotion. No fear, no anger, no sadness. Only intention. My eyes darted between his, searching for a flicker of untruthfulness. Could he be trying to ease my nerves, and nurture my decision so I didn't question myself?

303/409

But I saw none of that. What I saw, the light that streaked across the forest colors... It was genuine. In one swoop, Hegan had shoved our plates on the table, the sound of ceramic against wood screeched through my ears. Setting me down in their place, my dress slinked up to the crease of my hips, exposing my freshly barren pussy. A cool breeze brushed my skin, turning my body rigid. His warm hands wrapped around my inner thighs, spreading his heat across my body. Any trace of a chill had swept away, my body was on fire. Hegan's firm grip tugged my ass to the very edge of the table, forcing my legs open wider by his waist. Arching my back, I inhaled a thick breath, ribs pushing my breasts into his chest. The air hitting my lungs felt like I was swallowing bits of flaming ash; the hot oxygen burned as it swam down my throat.

304/409

Hegan pressed my shoulders back, folding me onto my elbows. A single hand dipped into my lower spine, fingers driving in hard to hold me in place. Taking his free hand, Hegan tore at the button of his jeans. I wanted him so bad, every piece of my body wanted him inside me. Ready and willing, I didn't need the foreplay, didn't need to be sweet talked. All I needed and wanted was his cock driving in as deep as he could go. “Hegan, fuck me. I need you to fuck me.” Using my forearms, I gripped the base of his neck and pulled him down. Running the tip of my tongue over his ear, his body quivered. “Fuck, you're wild.” With his pants around his ankles, Hegan palmed the thick shaft pressing against his briefs. “I'm going to give you all of me tonight.” Arching one brow, a soft giggle highlighted my tone. “You act like this is the first time, did you forget the sex we had already?”

305/409

Smirking, Hegan hung his head. “Babe, I didn't forget. I could never forget. But tonight, it's not just sex. Tonight is something else.” “How so?” I asked, sliding my fingers through his hair, twisting a few strands and rolling them between my grip. In his eyes, as he swept them over my body, stopping on my face; a seriousness flooded his expression. “Because I care about you, Noella. I've never cared before. You make me feel something.” Sitting quietly, my hands remained toiled in his roots. He rendered me speechless, I could only hold my stare on his face. I felt my chest rise and fall rapidly, ears buzzing with a dull chime that seemed to be set in the distance. There was nothing ringing around us, that sound was my heart, pounding so intensely it was rattling my bones. His words

306/409

filled my thoughts, clenching my stomach and twisting my insides into knots. I did that? I gave him something to feel? Me? “Heg—” Slicing my voice in half, he drove his mouth onto mine. The tip of his cock tickled my wet, swelling clit. He was standing firm, hard and ready to fill my pussy. Wiggling my hips, I reached down and guided his length inside. Each inch that spread me open pulsed. Engorged, his cock tasted my walls, the juice dripping down eased him in further. I felt every rippled vein as he slid in slowly. Hegan paused, looking down. I thought he had reached the limit I could take. Fuck, I could almost feel him in my belly already. But I was wrong, there was more of him left to go, a lot more. In one swift push, Hegan grunted, and his cock was buried inside me up to the base.

307/409

Tensing around his shaft, I felt him jerk inside me, the tip of his dick tapping the ceiling of my pussy. His head fell to my shoulder, hands squeezing my hips hard, nails digging in firmly to keep me static. “Damn, babe. Your pussy's tight. Fuck, that feels great.” His lips vibrated over my skin, thumbs rolling over my hip bones. Scooping my heels behind his legs, I whispered. “And that's yours now, all yours.” Laying flat on my back, I peeled my dress over my shoulders. My breasts spilled out, nipples hard and ready for nibbling. Twirling my fingers over the firmed pink flesh, I pulled his face down onto my tit. Moaning loudly, he teased my hardened beads with the tip of his tongue. His cock picked up pace and started to slam into my pussy. Each thrust went faster and faster, the sound of his balls slapping against my ass filled the room.

308/409

Standing up, he dropped his thumb to my clit, circling my throbbing button. Tingles tore through my body, bouncing off my toes and climbing back to my head. On reflex, I tried to close my thighs, slow down the climax and savor every second of it, but he had other plans. Using his free hand to hold my knee open, he thumbed my clit faster, eyes soaking up each twitch he created. And I gave in, letting him control my body, my orgasm. My stomach started to burn, the fire rolling up from beneath and coating my throat. Climbing up to the base of my skull, the sparks hit my brain, and I was sent over the edge. My body shook as I came, the slick juices spilling all over his shaft. Feeling his cock grow harder, Hegan cocked his head back, eyes closing tight. His chest muscles turned to solid rock, hands digging into my skin so intensely I was certain there would be bruises after.

309/409

With one final thrust, his body stopped. His cock pulsed one after another, the thick come filling my insides. I could feel the warm liquid dripping out, trickling over my ass cheeks. With a soft slurp, he pulled himself free. Glancing around he grabbed a napkin that had fallen to the chair, and draped it over his still solid cock. Reaching a hand out, he helped pulled me up and off the table. Looking down, a small pool of his pearly come rested on the wood, tiny remnants of what my body couldn't hold in. “Should we have Stefan come clean up?” Giggling I wiped my pussy clean with the soft cloth napkin. Hegan let out a loud laugh. “Yeah, he already hates me. Let's not give him another reason to go run to my father about us.” Pulling up his jeans, a firm smile held his lips in place. “That was fucking hot, Noella.”

310/409

“Stop,” I said, a sultry smile spread across my cheeks. Hegan stepped into me, adjusting the straps on my dress, he said, “Really, I'm serious.” His massive hands covered my shoulders. He made me feel so small. Standing up straight, my head was level with his pecs. His hands were the size of my head. In the grip of his two ham-sized hands, I felt safe. The man who had bought me, told me I needed to have his kid... He gave me a sense of comfort, a feeling of safety and being untouchable. And I... Well, I loved it. “Did you really mean what you said? All those things you said?” His hands traced the line of my jaw, and I was fixed on his face. “Yes.” His thumb slid smoothly in place. Tipping my chin up, he flicked his eyes between mine. “I can't explain it all, Noella.

311/409

But I feel it, and I can't just pretend it isn't there.” My lips pulled back, a softness washing over my eyes, Hegan wasn't fucking with me. It was almost like I had been hit by a car when I realized it, he didn't have to feed me lines of bullshit to get what he wanted. He took what he wanted my second day here, and he had the power to hold me over his head. But he never truly used it, he never threw it in my face as a complete ultimatum. He let me come to him, he pulled me into him. Fuck, he could have tied me up and kept me that way till he was done with me. Hegan didn't though, he used his charismatic side to reel me in. And I can't lie, he had me wrapped around him the first time I saw him. He might not know that, but I do. I knew what was forcing my head to hear a constant drumming; it was heart, my lungs, the blood coursing through my veins.

312/409

All of that hit me in one instant and I knew, I just knew. And he knew too. Smiling awkwardly, Hegan dug his fingers into his hair. Tugging it tight against his head, he said, “What? Why are you looking at me like that?” Shifting on his feet, he stuffed his hands into his pockets. “Look, I'm not good at this shit, okay? So stop making me feel weird about saying that.” “I'm not trying to make you feel weird, I just know exactly what you're saying. And I get it. Just know I get it.” My fingers teased the belt loop on his pants. Spotting his shirt on the floor, I leaned over and picked it up. “Here. Maybe if you weren't half naked, you'd feel better.” Chuckling I tossed his shirt over his shoulder. “Oh, well...” Pulling it over, his head popped through. “Yup, that helps. Now I feel much better.”

313/409

“See,” I said, jabbing my elbow into his stomach. “Alright, so dinner is probably pretty cold now. You want a hot meal?” Tilting my head, I looked in the direction of the kitchen. “Seriously? You want to cook?” “No, we're going to cook. Come on, let's go see if there's anything in the kitchen I can work with.” Nodding my head, I grabbed his hand and started to lead him away. “Oh, no. No, I can't cook. Trust me.” His feet started to sludge across the floor. I wasn't going to take 'no' for an answer. Angling my head, my eyes narrowed playfully. “You don't have a choice.” Glaring my teeth, my lip curled up. He got the joke instantly. Hegan's smile split wide across his face, laughing gently. “Ha, ha, very funny. Alright, let's go cook. But don't say I didn't warn you.” “I won't.” Gripping his hand, my fingers twined inside his.

314/409

My hand, resting in his, it felt right. It was the most difficult thing to explain and understand. I came here under the impression of a party, a dance. That was the job. And here I was fucking the hottest man in the state, after he tells me he paid for me like a fucking loaf of bread. And to top it off, he expected me to have his baby. After a lot of thought and weighing my options, having his baby did seem like the best thing to do. But not only for me, for Hegan too. After watching him get completely mind fucked by his father, and to see the life deflate around him, I wanted to do this for him too. Now my feelings were knotting around his, coiling up tight. The things he said, the truthfulness to his tone and words. He already had my agreement, he didn't need to say any of that shit to me.

315/409

But he did. This weekend hadn't been anything like I'd thought it would be. Call me crazy if you want to. But this weekend turned out to be way better than I had expected.

Chapter Seventeen Noella Two weeks later I'm late. I'm four days late. Pacing in the bathroom, I buried my arms into my chest, heart racing wildly. You can't get pregnant that soon, can you? No. That shit takes time. I've read about it in those pamphlets at the doctor's office. Every year at my annual— spread your legs so I can insert these metal pliers and make you really uncomfortable— appointment, I pick up the tiny booklets and scan them. They all talk about how pregnancy can take time, and not to get discouraged. They said that for some woman it could take up to a year before actually getting pregnant.

317/409

Stress, I bet I'm late because of stress. Between my mom, and the shit with Hegan... To say I wasn't stressed would be a lie. Hegan and myself stayed at his mansion through the weekend, and it was the best two days of my life. And after leaving there, we've seen each other pretty much everyday. It was nice to have someone in my life. Someone who actually seemed to enjoy the real me. That didn't happen, ever. I was able to cut down on my shifts at Tigress, only needing to work one night on the weekend now. Hegan didn't actually know how much I owed Gloria, and I wasn't going to tell him. That was my debt, not his to clean up for me. He repeatedly laid the offer on my plate, giving me the out of my debt to her. But I didn't feel comfortable having him do that. He already set up the future treatments for

318/409

mom, and that was more than I could ask for. But I was getting nervous. I had agreed to do this, to have his child, but that didn't mean I wasn't scared shit to think I could be pregnant. My eyes kept flickering back and forth between the floor, my fingers, and the small plastic strip on the sink. Three minutes, wait three minutes. Fuck you would think with all the medical advances there would be a test that could tell you instantly. The ringing of my phone shot through my ears, my body shuddered instantly. I had been so far inside my own head it scared the piss out of me. Fumbling my cell, I almost dropped it in the toilet. “Hello?” I said, before actually clicking the answer button. I thought my thumb was going to crash through the screen as I hit the button again. “Hello?”

319/409

“Hey, it's me. You alright? You sound like you've been running a damn marathon.” Hegan's soothing voice flowed through the speaker. My nerves spiking and calming in the same breath. “Hi, yeah, I'm fine. Just... Just had to run for the phone is all.” Clearing my throat, I didn't want to tell him exactly what I was doing. If it came back negative, there was no reason to get his hopes up. It was strange really, having only known him for such a short time, and yet I felt like we had known each other for years. “You're still coming tonight right?” he asked. Pausing briefly, I'd forgotten about his family's Christmas party. “Yeah, yeah. I'm still coming. It's at six, right?” Biting my thumbnail, my eyes kept glancing over at the pregnancy test. “Sure is. Get ready for the wildest time of your life with these old prestigious drunks.”

320/409

A nervous giggle escaped my throat. “You sure you're okay?” The concern in his voice peppered his tone. “Yeah, I'm fine. I'm going to hop in the shower and I'll see you later, okay?” Trying to ground myself, I leveled the butterflies swarming in my belly. “Alright, see you tonight, Babe.” I could hear the smile in his words. I wished I could pull one out of my thoughts, but the only thing coating my brain at the moment was the terror of waiting for that test to finish. Hanging up the phone, I closed my eyes tight. I wasn't sure if I wanted to see a positive result or not. Exhaling a heavy burst of air, I opened my lids. One. Two. Three. Forcing the muscles in my neck to loosen, my head fell forward. And...

321/409

*** My car felt out of place, a grain of dirt in a sea of glass. Turning my head to a soft tap against the window, a man stood outside dressed in a crisp tailored suit. Rolling down the glass, I asked, “Yes?” “Can I park the car for you, Miss?” The gentleman hovered forward, hand on my door handle. Seriously? Valet parking, are you fucking kidding me? “Okay.” The words drew out over my tongue. It was such a bizarre thing to see at someone's home. Granted, this wasn't your typical house, it was another mansion beyond anything I'd seen before. It had to be ten times bigger than one I stayed in with Hegan on Martha's Vineyard. As the valet opened my door, his hand came down to aid me out. Dropping my heels to the cold pavement, a brisk wind flew over my skin; the touch of winter in New England.

322/409

“I got it, Anthony.” The deep baritone voice crept in from the shadows. Hegan was standing behind the young man, a shadow in the dark night sky. “Oh, sure, Mr. Alexander. Sorry.” The boy, who looked no older than seventeen, stepped to the side. “May I?” Hegan said, his hand held open with the palm up, free hand draped across his lower back. He looked amazing; a well fitted black blazer hung over his tight blue t-shirt. Even in the dark driveway, the ripples of his chest stood out, hugged by the fabric perfectly. “Why thank you.” Smiling, I gripped his hand and exited the car. His eyes rode the length of my jacket, slowly climbing back up to my face. “I can't wait to see you what you have under that.” “Well don't get too excited. It's much more appropriate compared to the second skin I wore to that lunch with your parents.”

323/409

Chuckling, I turned to the valet driver. “Careful, sometimes first gear sticks, so go easy with the clutch.” Tossing him the keys, I cupped my arm in Hegan's. “When are you going to let me buy you a new car?” Hegan asked. “Why? This one runs fine.” Arching my lip, I clasped my hand around the muscle of his arm. Hegan let out a light laugh as we made our way up to the house. “My mom's been asking me about you.” “Oh yeah, and what have you said? All good things I hope.” Veering up at him, my heels clicked across the smooth granite steps. “Good things?” Cocking his head to the side, he said, “I told her the truth. That you're a serial killer stalker, who won't leave me alone.”

324/409

Grinding my elbow into his ribs, I huffed under my breath. “I thought that's what you liked about me?” Hegan chuckled, scooping his arm around my waist, and pulling me in tighter. It felt good being in his arms, everything around me melted away. All my fears, all my doubts, they all disappeared when we were together. Opening the door, I was hit with the sound of music, glazed in laughter and loud voices. It streamed through the wave of warm air and scent of cinnamon. Now this is a party. I thought as my coat was stripped off my back by another servant of the Alexander family. Walking through the great room, there were people everywhere. Hoards of unfamiliar faces filled the space. Looking around, the place was brightly lit in white lights, holly berry bushels, and decorations out the ass.

325/409

To top it all off, there was the biggest Christmas tree I had ever seen set in the middle of the room. It had to be fifteen feet high, blaring in all its glory. “Wow.” The only sound I could make, barely audible out of my lips. “You can say that again,” Hegan said, eyes eating me up as I stood beside him. “That dress is amazing.” He studied the rich purple teacup dress I was wearing. I could feel my cheeks flush red, bowing my head into my chest, I pushed back a curl of hair behind my ear. “Not me, this place. It's incredible.” “Yeah, I guess. They do this every year, throw a huge party for all their socialites.” Hegan buried a hand in his pocket, the other falling to his hip. “To be honest, this is the first one I looked forward to.” “How come?” Tilting my head, I fingered the cuff of his sleeve.

326/409

“Because I don't feel completely alone.” His fingers glided between mine, squeezing firmly. “You're here with me.” From the far side of the room, a loud burst crushed through the air. Snapping my head to look, I saw his dad holding a bottle of champagne, tipping it into glasses for a small group surrounding him. His head turned towards us, mouth opened in a wide smile. Waving his arm over his head, he flagged us over. “Welcome, Noella!” His half drunken speech bellowed through his lips. “Merry Christmas, Sir.” Folding my hands in front of my waist, I twisted my toe against the tile nervously. “Please, call me Brandon. Champagne?” Holding the bottle, he rocked it side to side. “Sure, thank you.” “Let me introduce you to the group,” he said. Before he could say another word, Hegan cut in. “Dad, let me.”

327/409

“No, no, no. Hegan, you can do what you do best. Nothing.” Wagging the bottle by the neck, he dipped his head. “Everyone, this is Noella, my son's girlfriend.” Lightly, I lifted my hand barely higher than the buckle on my dress and waved. “Hello.” There were about ten people who all said hello at the same time. Their varying tones all blended together in one massive heap. Waiting for Hegan's dad to tell me who each person was, a smug grin sat across my face. I'd thought the world of the strip club was a weird place. But here in this mansion, even in all its beauty; I could see the fake emotions resting on all their faces. Don't get me wrong, everyone looked like they were having a good time, but in the recesses of every expression was a false and feeble attempt to pretend. Pretending to like each other, pretending to be a big happy slue of friends.

328/409

“Dad, can you please try and be nice tonight. It's a party, you don't need to put me down in front of everyone.” Hegan sent the fiery whisper at his father, trying to not bring any attention to what he was saying. Brandon's face went taut. His lips pulled back, teeth slowly emerging. “Sure, sure, Son. Anything for you.” Resting his hand over Hegan's shoulder, his nails dug into the muscle. “So would you like to go ahead and tell everyone how you guys met?” Hegan's neck muscles began bulge, the veins enlarging to their limit. I watched him swallow hard, his mind racing to think of something to say. Lifting my hand, I said, “We met at coffee shop.” Shooting a glance at Hegan, I gave the unofficial story of how we got together. “It was funny, I was going to leave, he was coming in, and we collided at the door. I lost a whole cup of coffee and...” Rolling my wrist,

329/409

I joggled my head. “He ended up needing a new shirt.” The small crowd began to giggle, tossing short eyes at each other. Brandon let out a gut wrenching chuckle. His chest heaved up and down, the laugh turning into a cynical rumble. Resting his hand on the back of his neck, he said, “Really? Is that so?” Hegan nodded his head. “Yup, it was a hot mess. Literally.” “So, Noella, if that's how you two met, then tell me something.” I watched his face turn to stone, the same look he had at the table during lunch. “Who's Gloria then? Because from what I understand, and correct me if I'm wrong.” He turned his attention to the people around us. “You're a stripper. Is that right?” All the air from my lungs seeped out. My entire body numbing as the room began to

330/409

grow silent. I stood in disbelief, complete shock turned in my gut. How? How did he know? Hegan's mouth hit the floor, his fists balling up by his sides. “Dad! What the hell are you doing?!” He yelled as his body went stiff. “Well, Hegan, you should know this stuff. I'm sure she's just using you, like most girls would with the money our family has.” He spoke as if I wasn't standing directly next to his son. As if because I didn't have the wealth like they did, I couldn't understand him. “You're a real asshole, you know that?” Hegan spit out through gritted teeth. “Hegan, it's fine.” I muttered, lips angled down. “No, no it's not.” He stepped in closer to his father, standing face to face. “You should probably get her to her car, Son. She might have clientele she needs to

331/409

serve.” Brandon lifted a finger, pointing towards the door. Shifting my eyes around the crowd, they all held smug grins on their faces. One man had a shit eating smile painted on his face, another tried to hide his with a hand over his mouth, resting on his forearm. And all I wanted to do was crawl into a hole, and bury my head so their eyes would stop burning me at the stake. I was never ashamed of being a stripper, I did what I needed to do. And none of these people had a fucking clue about what was going on in my life. But in that moment, with every eye just gazing at me; the judgments of their thoughts coated their expressions and made me feel smaller than life itself. Inhaling a deep breath of air, I started to turn and walk away. I was going to leave, there was no need for me to stay and listen to a barrage of ridicule from those fucking

332/409

people. But something inside me ignited, the small voice turning into a loud scream. Whipping around, I held my hand up. “You know what? Fuck this.” Pointing my finger directly at the mass of eyes, I said, “You people live like the real world around you doesn't exist. You don't know me, and for you to stand here on your mighty pedestal and think you can cast one ounce of judgment on me, you can take your money and shove it up your ass.” “Excuse—” Slashing Brandon's words, my back firmed, spine standing up as tall as I could lift it. “I'm not done. You think your son is a failure, that he won't live up to your standards, but you know what, Brandon?” Glaring at him, I took a long stride, bringing me right in front him. “You don't get to decide his life. Take a look at yourself for once, you want to talk about pathetic? This...” My hands guided

333/409

them around the room. “This is pathetic. And so are you.” In one swift motion I spun on my heels and stormed towards the door. I heard Hegan's feet closely behind mine. But I didn't turn around to look, I had the exit in my sight. And for the first time a familiar face appeared. Stefan was standing at the door, arms folded behind his back. As I approached, he held his hand out to stop me. “Noella, you have a phone call.” Twisting my head, I tried to pass by. All I wanted was to be as far from that place as possible. Not one second longer did I want to be there, with the rich assholes looking down on me like I'm some piece of trash off the street. “Noella,” he said, fingers tugging on my shoulder. “They said it's important, please come with me.”

334/409

Hegan stepped besides Stefan, his frame made Stefan look so small. “Stefan, we're leaving. Move out of the way.” “Sir, I'm sorry. But Noella has an urgent call.” “Urgent? Who is it?” I asked. I couldn't think of any reason someone would be calling me here. The only people who knew where I was going was my parents. “It's the hospital, they need to speak with you immediately.” My heart dropped from my chest into my stomach. The tingles of anger turned to electric fear. “What? Why?” “I'm not sure, I didn't ask. But, you can follow me.” Turning to another doorway, he looked over his shoulder. “This way.” Looking up at Hegan, wide-eyed, my arms began to shake. He ran his hand over my shoulder and down my back. “Alright, I”ll come with you.”

335/409

“Sir, maybe you should wait here.” Stefan looked blankly at him. “You might have to do some damage control with your father.” Nodding his head towards where we just were, Brandon had begun to flail his arms in anger. His hands were wildly flying around, gesturing towards me. “I'll be back. I'm sure it's nothing, go,” I said as he twisted his head between his father and me. “Go.” Hegan leaned in and kissed my forehead. “I'll catch up with you in a minute, and you Stefan...” Holding up his finger, he stuffed it in Stefan's face, almost touching his nose. “I have a few things to say to you too after.” With long strides, Hegan started back to where his dad was. The noises of the room were stirring with happy and angry voices. Some people stood oblivious to what had happened between us, others were gawking between Brandon and myself. Their mouths

336/409

hung open, pointing in my direction and whispering with cupped hands into ears. Huffing loudly, I turned to Stefan. “Let's go, where's the phone?” Holding his arm out, I followed him down the hall. My entire frame was shaking, I could feel it all the way to my toes. Why was the hospital calling me here? Is it my mom? God, let everything be alright. This was a fear I had tried to imagine myself dealing with, tried to prepare for. That call. That voice on the end of the line telling me the news I never wanted to hear, but knew it was always a looming possibility. As my lungs struggled to keep my breathing at a steady pace, I consciously tried to sooth my heart. The beating drummed through my head, the pounding hitting my ribs so hard I thought it might break through.

337/409

It's fine Noella. I'm sure everything is fine. Please let it be fine.

Chapter Eighteen Hegan The weight of all the years I had dealt with my father's demeaning and abusive remarks had finally come to an abrupt halt. Once he started on Noella, that was it, I was done. It was one thing for him to berate me in front of these people, it wasn't new to me. But for him to go as low as he did, airing out her dirty laundry in front of people who had no business knowing... That was something I wasn't going to stand for. The room around me had grown quiet, tunneling my sight onto just my dad. He was breathing fire through his eyes, his face looming in my direction like a charred piece of old oak.

339/409

Deep trenches had overtaken the weathered skin of this working man. His face had lengthened, mouth furrowed down. Watching his nostrils flare, the lids around his eyes had thinned, the pupils looking as though they were floating on a sea of white. Everything was moving in slow motion, my body was stepping forward but the distance between us appeared to grow. The room was extending out, running away in front of me. My dad still had some people around him, the fuzzy forms were trying to calm him down. Their arms were rested on his shoulders, opaque faces leaned in to whisper in his ear. But he didn't react, didn't shake his head or acknowledge the words pushed into his head. He watched me coming, fingers curling up into tight balls by his waist. Fuck this shit! It ends now! I was already sick of everything he had put on me since

340/409

fucking birth. There was nothing I ever did right, until now. I was going to make him wish he hadn't screwed with Noella. Every piece of him was going to know how I really felt, what I was thinking, and if I had to... Fuck, it didn't matter anymore. That woman had finally breathed life into me. And she deserved to be treated with respect, nothing about her past, her present, or even her fucking future, was any concern of his. Quickening my pace, my feet hit the marble tiles. I didn't move around the others in the room, I walked through them. Clearing a path with my shoulders, my hands, and my fucking glare. No one was standing in my way, not this time. Stopping at the toes of his fancy black shoes, my lip snarled up. “You're a real fucking asshole.” The words road off my tongue

341/409

effortlessly. “Noella didn't deserve that, you don't know shit about her.” My father was exactly my height, his nose a fucking hair from touching mine. “Back up, Son,” he said under his breath. “You will not disrespect me in front of these people, do you understand?” “I'm not a child anymore, and you can't talk to people the way you do. She isn't below us, she isn't below you. Noella, she's going to be around for a while. So you better get used to it.” I could feel my arms starting to shake, explosions firing off in the sinew. The burning was seeping into my bones, filling my body with rage. An evil smile peeled up one corner of his lip. “Your girlfriend is a whore, Hegan. And she will never be good enough for this family.” The air he exhaled, filled my nostrils. A mix of champagne and caviar. My stomach had turned, boiling in the acid. I couldn't stop myself at that point. He

342/409

had just said the worst thing to me he ever could. Calling her a whore? He didn't fucking know her, who was he to judge? The man who had called himself the savior of the smallest state, with a billboard that read— 'I'm a man who takes pride in what all men do.' My dad was a fucking fake. Before I could stop myself, or even process what I was about to do; my arm pulled back, the muscles retracting on pure instinct, and raw emotion. In one heavy swoop, my fist crashed into his jaw. My father's body fell back, straight as a board. I heard the entire room inhale a loud gasp. Short screams pulsed at me from different directions, hands fell over mouths and grabbed forearms in disbelief. Hovering over him, his lids flashed to life. Blinking wildly, he rubbed his chin. Leaning down over his face, my shadow crawled over

343/409

his pale skin. “You deserved that, and you know it.” My chest was rising and falling rapidly, I had regained some control. “And just so you know, I don't care about your fucking offer. You can take your money and shove it up your ass. I don't want it anymore.” I wasn't sure what had just come over me. Before, all I cared about was keeping my share of the business, having my hand dipped in the pot. But after what he said and how he treated Noella, that all washed away. The money, the baby, him threatening to yank it out from beneath me; none of that bothered me anymore. I knew what I wanted, what I needed. It was her, Noella. She needs to be in my life, I can feel that. I don't want to be without her, ever. All of my life had been dictated by my father and his thoughts. But not this, this wasn't his choice, it was mine.

344/409

And without her, nothing else would matter. Turning around, I walked with hard strides away from his downed form. A surge of people had surrounded him, helping him up off the floor. I could hear the faint yell of my mother from the back of the room. Glancing over my shoulder, she had crouched down next to her husband and was angrily yelling at me to come back. Holding my head down, I just shook a silent no. Not this time. Throwing my arm out in front of me, I shoved the door open that Noella and Stefan had gone through. There were several different phones in the house, which one did he take her to? I had no clue. It was going to be a matter of hunting them down. Stefan was going to be the next one to get a piece of my mind. He had obviously been the one to tell my dad about her being a

345/409

stripper. It wasn't his business to do that, and he was going to find that out first hand. I was fucking pissed, a shaken bottle not done popping yet. My dad went down, and now it was Stefan's turn. He had wriggled his fingers into my world. And I didn't like that one bit. I thought he had let it go after the whole incident at the mansion. A couple weeks had gone by, and he acted like his usual self. A sneaky, creepy butler. I was able to relax, thought he maybe realized that he'd gone too far. Now I knew he didn't, he had just waited to tell my father. Waited to make sure he had exposed her at the perfect time for my dad to really jab her with his serrated blade. He was going to pay for this, and I was going to make sure he understood how badly he fucked up. Crossing through the living room, it was empty. He hadn't brought her to that phone,

346/409

but it was close to the party. For an important phone call like that from her family, she might have wanted to have a little more space from the hoots and hollers of drunken guests. “Noella? Stefan?” I called out through the hall as I entered. There was nothing but silence, no muffled voices, no patter of feet. Where the hell did he take her? Spotting Claudette, one of the maids, I asked, “Claude, have you seen Stefan and Noella? She had a call and I'm not sure what room they went to.” “No, Sir. I haven't seen them. But maybe they went to your father's office.” Shrugging her shoulders, she continued dusting the pictures lining the walls. Turning towards my father's office, I stopped to listen. There was still nothing, no sounds, no movements. Everything was dead silent.

347/409

My heart started to beat against my chest, breathing heavily, my lungs strained to keep calm. The two of them were nowhere to be found. Alright, calm down. They have to be around here somewhere. Maybe she got bad news? Maybe she needed to get some air? Rubbing my forehead, I started for the backyard. There was a courtyard outside, plenty of lounge chairs filled the area around the pool. Noella could be there, getting her head together, I thought, as I scanned a few more empty rooms. She had just been belittled and embarrassed, and I had no fucking clue what her phone call was about. Standing at the double glass doors, I tried to look through the glass. The reflection from inside mirrored the room behind me, I couldn't see a damn thing. Gripping the handle I tore the door the open, and walked briskly into the darkness.

348/409

Shifting my head side to side, my eyes bulged out, trying to make out any shapes in the black winter night. “Noella! Stefan!” I yelled out. And still nothing. Fear began to settle in my skull, crawling down my spine and wrenching its fingers into my chest. Running through the snow, I reached the front of the house. Twisting my head in all directions, I looked for anyone. Any shape, any person I could find. “Mr. Alexander? Is everything alright?” Anthony, the valet attendant asked, walking up from behind. Jerking around, I ran my hand over my jaw. “Have you seen Noella? Or Stefan?” Leaning forward I rested my palms on my knees. I was out of breath from running and the frozen air I had swallowed. “Yes, they came through a little while ago. Why?” Arching his brow, he drove his hands into his pockets.

349/409

“Where did they go? Did you see where they went?” Gripping his shoulders, I squeezed down hard, shaking him. “Stefan said he needed to drive her somewhere, they seemed to be in a rush too. What's going on, Sir? Are you okay? Concern started to blend with his confusion. “Where did they go, Anthony? I need to know where they went.” For the first time in my life, I felt completely lost. My head ached, trying to put pieces of vague insight together. Why would she leave without coming to tell me? Why would she leave with him? “I'm not sure, Sir. Stefan said something about her family and getting her to them.” Furrowing his brows, he said, “I think he said a name... Uh, Bernadette.” Opening my eyes wide, my mind was spinning. Bernadette? Bernadette? Is that a hospital? Her mother's name? I was trying to figure out what place he was talking about exactly. If Noella needed to leave and be

350/409

somewhere, why didn't she come and get me? Or waited for me and told me what was going on? Digging into my pocket, I yanked out my cell phone. Scrolling to her name, I hit the call button. The ringing seemed to climb through my whole body, vibrating through my bones and shaking me to the core. The sound was endless, each drawn out tone, rolling and being followed by another. A click echoed and it was her voicemail. Fuck! Answer your phone! Dialing again, I still got nothing. Even my text messages went unanswered. Anthony's words replayed over and over in my head. Then it hit me. Bernadette, it wasn't her mother's name or a hospital. Bernadette was the name of my father's boat, the one he had been renovating for a couple years now. I had totally forgotten about it, he basically gave up on it the day he decided to start that project.

351/409

My mom always gave him the benefit of the doubt when it came to my dad and his 'hobbies,' I however knew the truth. He liked to just have things and say he was working on them. When in reality, all his projects went unfinished. Until he finally payed someone else to pick up the pieces and fix it for him. Why the fuck would Stefan bring her there?! My blood had started to boil, bubbling up and driving into my veins. He had taken her from here, taken her from me. But why? What was he doing? Fear for Noella and her safety, fear that he might try and hurt her, settled in my mind. Stefan was a cold and calculated person, I learned that first hand. In the mansion that night, when he confronted me about her. I got a glimpse at his darker side, the one he had hidden from my family. I didn't know what his motive was or

352/409

why he felt so compelled to ruin my life, but he hated me with a passion, and now I knew he would do anything to get me out of this family. Stefan always looked at me with a sense of disgust, an eye of disdain. And when he was around my father, it went a whole level deeper. I had put up with it for years now, and tonight I was going to finish it. This time he had gone too far. He took what was mine. Now, he had to pay. No one fucks with what I've claimed. Noella, she wasn't his to take.

Chapter Nineteen Noella The sounds of the party started to fade, voices turning into whispers in the distance. Following Stefan down the hallway, he seemed to be turning in so many different directions. I wasn't familiar with this place yet, I'd only been here a few times since leaving Martha's Vineyard. “Where are we going? There isn't another phone closer?” I asked him, trying to keep up with his pace. I was afraid to lose him in the maze of doors and halls. “We're close, Noella. This phone is in a quieter spot of the house.” His head stayed forward, the sound of his voice riding back at me over his shoulder.

354/409

“Any phone is fine, Stefan, really,” I said, an uneasy feeling started to well up in my stomach. He seemed to be teasing me further away from everyone, further away from Hegan. It wasn't sitting right, and the sickening feeling floating around in my gut, made that clear. “It's just over here.” Pushing open a door, the hall lit with a soft glow from inside the room. Stepping inside, I noted the phone on the desk, placed off the receiver. Stefan held his arm out, and said, “See, here we are. Go ahead.” Nodding, he stood off in the corner, taking up what must be his standard placement in a room. Grabbing the phone, I drove it into my ear. “Hello?” Listening for a moment, I asked again, “Hello?” The word strained over my tongue. But the phone was silent, there was no one there.

355/409

Suddenly, a hard object jabbed into my lower back, my entire body shook from surprise. What the fuck? What the hell is he doing? Stiffening my shoulders, my spine went taut. A low devilish tone filled my ear in a whisper. “Don't scream, and I won't shoot you.” “Wh... What?” I was trying to process what was happening. Confusion had blanketed my thoughts, a dull numbing sensation had started to trickle through my nerves. “What are you doing, Stefan?” “Shut up, and just do what I say.” His fingers twined the fabric in the middle of my back. Digging the gun in deeper, he said, “You're coming with me.” My heart started to race, sweat beading up on the back of my neck. What the fuck is he doing this for? Shit, what the hell do I do? Think Noella, think!

356/409

I was trying to clear my head, focus on thinking straight. A gun to my ribs, a man who had peeled off his mask and was letting his true colors shine, and me. I had to do whatever I needed to keep me safe, to keep me alive. And to keep... Would he really shoot me? Here and now, with all these people? Inhaling a deep breath, I said, “I'm not going anywhere with you.” I could feel his breath against the back of my neck, a soft chuckle began to roll across my skin. “Are you kidding me? You stupid bitch, I have a gun to you and you think you can tell me no?” Whipping me around to face him, he spun a curl of my hair around his finger. “You know I could shoot you here and now, and no one would hear the shot.” Veering my eyes, I glared at him. “You won't shoot me here. I'm sure someone would hear it.”

357/409

“Really?” His lip arched up, head tilting to his shoulder. Lifting the gun up, he rolled it in front of his face. The shiny metal flashing with light from the room, his face warped in different directions across the mirror finish. A deafening boom rang out, my ears buzzing and ringing from the sound. Stefan had pulled the trigger, aiming it at the ceiling. His eyes set firm on me, face an emotionless piece of rock. He had pulled the trigger so fast I didn't even have time to react. A white dust had started billow out of the ceiling, small bits of plaster coating the floor around us. Looking around the room, he turned and look at the doorway. “See? Not a soul heard that.” Replacing the gun on my side, he shoved me forward. “Let's go.” “Stefan, please don't do this.” I tried to slow my feet, trudge them across the floor to keep us in that room as long as possible. I

358/409

didn't want to be there with him, but I was hoping and wishing someone, anyone, had heard the test shot he fired. “Shut up and walk.” Jamming the barrel into my back, he forced me through the door. Turning away from the direction we had come in, he started down another unfamiliar hall. “Why? Why are you doing this?” Pleading with him for an answer, I attempted to look over my shoulder. Catching a quick glimpse of his expression, there was nothing there. He had no feeling or fear on his face. His eyes were blackened, a deep charcoal gray ate up his pupils. Stefan wasn't looking at me, his head flicked around wildly, taking in the entire hall and any doors we passed by. I couldn't figure out why he was doing this, what reason he had for taking me this way. I never did anything to this man, did I? The question sat like glue, I replayed the times we met and the conversations we had.

359/409

There weren't many, but in the few words we exchanged, nothing stood out. How could I have wronged this man to make him do this? My entire body was a blended mess of fear, worry, and anger. He was starting to piss me off, rage over what he was doing was starting to deepen and overtake the other feelings. A lone door stood at the end of the last hall we turned down. Good, no place else to turn. Alright, that's good. I need to try and talk him down. Maybe... maybe if I could connect with him on some common ground, I could talk him out of this. “Please, Stefan. If you just let me go now, and walk away, nothing bad will happen.” Huffing under his breath, his fingers tightened around my dress. “Didn't I tell you to shut up?” Stefan forced the gun in deeper, driving it in between my ribs. “If I let you go that's when the bad shit will happen.”

360/409

What is he talking about? He had to be crazy, lost his mind. What bad things would happen if he let me go? It didn't make any sense. Closing in on the door, he ducked to the side, reaching forward and throwing it open. The ice cold breeze from outside whipped across my face, turning my body frigid. My skin began to harden, trembling to the ten degree weather. “Stefan, it's cold out and I don't have my coat.” Wrapping my arms around my torso, I tried to rub the heat back into my body. “Can we go get my jacket at least?” “I swear, Noella. If you don't shut your fucking mouth right now you're not going to make it another step. I'll blow your fucking brains out.” Shoving me forward, he guided us around to the front of the house. Staring up at the windows, the light from inside filtered out against the snow. I could see the figures of people walking by, the dull

361/409

sounds of Christmas music and laughter were still faintly audible. And with my eyes open wide, I prayed someone would look out into the driveway, or step outside and see him taking me. Desperately I wanted to see Hegan, see his face emerge through that front door. But there was no one. I was outside in fear of my life, and everyone in there was partying without a clue. Crossing through the hoard of cars, Stefan approached my beat up sedan. “Key?” He angrily spat out. “I, I don't have it. The valet does.” My spirit started to lift, a sense of relief began to flow. We couldn't go anywhere without my keys, and inside I laughed at him. “That's right, you don't. I do.” Dangling them in front of my face, I didn't have to see him to know he was smiling. Fuck! He grabbed my keys. Motherfucker! Looking around, I thought about

362/409

running, but he had a gun. If I took off he could shoot me easily, I was in heels. The exact opposite of what you would need to run through the snow and ice. The clomp of feet hit the pavement, echoing across the frozen driveway. “Stefan? Is that you?” Anthony had appeared through the row of cars. Thank you, thank you. I thought, glancing up at the starry night sky. Whispering into my ear, he said, “Don't say a fucking word.” Clearing his throat, he turned towards the young man, hiding the gun between us. “Yeah, it's me. I'm taking Noella to her family. There was an emergency and she needs to get there quickly.” “Oh, okay. Well I hope everything's alright.” “Yes, me too. She's a bit worked up, so I'm going to make sure she get's to Bernadette safely.”

363/409

Every piece of me wanted to yell and scream, but the hard metal buried against my back held me silent. My lungs were inhaling slowly, trying to force down the icy air. I had to keep calm, had to. It was the most important thing for me to do, risking my life wasn't an option. “Alright, Sir. Good luck, Noella.” And like that, he was gone. We were alone again in the cold dark night. The one chance to get me out of Stefan's grasp had just walked away. “Get in.” Stefan grabbed the driver's side door and pulled it open. “I thought you—” “No, you're driving. And I'm going to tell you where to go.” Placing his hand on my head, he pushed me down onto the seat and shut the door. Climbing into the passenger seat, gun held firmly at eye level, he shoved the key in the ignition. “Start it and drive.”

364/409

The shivers that had riddled my body from the cold had disappeared. I was numb. But not from the weather, it was my mind shutting down all my feelings, sending me behind my interior walls. I couldn't let myself feel the true fear that wanted to settle on me. My walls had always been there to protect me. They saved me from feeling; all the horrible things that had been thrown my way, all the disappointments that seemed to shadow my every move. Until Hegan, he'd knocked them down; opening me up to the pleasures of life I didn't think existed. But here, I needed to build them back up. Stefan wasn't going to get to me, I wasn't going to let him. No matter what he threw at me, I wasn't going to let him break me down. “Where are we going?” Gripping the wheel, I turned out of the driveway, away from safety and towards the unknown.

365/409

“Didn't you hear me tell Anthony?” His snake-like fingers crawled across his jaw, rubbing his chin. “We're going to Bernadette, keep you away from here.” “Why, Stefan? Why are you doing this?” I asked, keeping my eyes on the road. I didn't want to look him, didn't want to see the face of a monster. “Frankly, Noella, I need you gone. It's that simple.” “Simple? This is simple?” Rolling my eyes, I squeezed the wheel tighter, knuckles turning the same color as the snow. “Why do you need me gone, Stefan? Huh, tell me why?” “Look, I don't know how well you know that boyfriend of yours. But he's supposed to have a kid, and I can't let that happen.” His tongue made a sickening slurp as he inhaled through his teeth. “That's why he's with you, he needs you to have a baby.”

366/409

“And? I already know that. But what does that have to do with you?” “You know that?!” His body twisted in the seat, brows furrowed. “Why are you here then?” “I'm with him because I want to be. And this whole thing is none of your fucking business anyway.” My lower jaw shot out, teeth biting down hard. “You know Hegan's going to come look for me, he will.” “Is that so? See, that's what you don't get. That's what none of you get, no one can see what I deserve. I deserve all of it, Noella! Not Hegan!” His voice blared into my ear. Cringing, my shoulders shot up. “What are you talking about?!” Slamming my palm on the steering wheel, I jerked my head in his direction. “Your the butler! Why do you think Hegan doesn't deserve this?” Lowering his head, he shook it side to side. “This should have been my life, he takes it all for granted. He doesn't appreciate

367/409

anything his father has done for him.” Dragging his hand through his hair, he said, “This is mine, it should all be mine.” “You're fucking crazy, you know that? You have a good life, a good job. You don't need to be jealous of Hegan.” My chest lifted heavily, throat feeling as though it was thickening. Stefan was coming undone, a loose canon. I was watching him lose his mind slowly beside me, with a gun still set on my head. “No. I didn't come here to be a butler, that happened accidentally. I came here to meet Brandon. But, when I got here, he thought I came to interview for the position as butler.” I watched his arm start to shake, trembles filtering in from his shoulder. “Alright, shut up! Just shut up and drive, Bitch.” His piercing black eyes glistened under the streetlights. “Stefan, please tell me why you're doing this. I don't want you to hurt me, my mother

368/409

needs me. You know she's sick, don't do this to her.” Shifting my eyes, I was looking down the barrel of the gun. He had lifted it to my temple, hovering it just above the flesh. “Drive. No more talking, unless it's me telling you where to turn.” Swallowing a large gulp of air, the oxygen mixed with the taste of acid from my throat. The hot grit scraped down to my lungs, the stinging sent a wave of electricity through my body. All I wanted was Hegan, I needed him there with me. Needed him to swoop me up in his arms, and save me from the insanity beside me. His face was forming in my mind, the wonder if he was looking for me had taken hold. I wasn't going to let Stefan drag me down, I needed to be strong. I was strong, and always had been. He could try and keep

369/409

me trapped, try and wriggle his fingers in between Hegan and myself. But, deep down, I knew there was something between us. All of this had started as a messed up story, a fucked up proposition and demand for me and my body. Now, now it was real. It wasn't about what he could do for my mom and my family anymore. I knew I... I loved him. And hopefully I'd get the chance to tell him more than that.

Chapter Twenty Hegan My head was pounding, chest aching. Noella wouldn't have left without telling me, I knew that. We've grown close, a lot closer than I ever expected. My stomach was in a ball of knots, turning and grinding against my insides. I have to go find her. She would've never left without finding me first. Pressing my feet to the pavement, the ice crunched against the soles of my shoes. Each crack was enhanced by a thousand, snapping through my body, and hitting my nerves. When I find him, he's going to wish he never fucked with Noella; with what was mine. Throwing the front door open, I

371/409

pushed through the crowd of people to the closet. Searching through the mass of jackets, my fingers swiped across a smooth fabric. Gently, I pulled the coat out; it was Noella's. She doesn't have her jacket, why doesn't she have her coat? Running my fingers over the black suede, my mind was a mess of horrific images. She had left with Stefan, left without anything to keep her warm in the cold air. Tearing the coat off the hanger, I draped it over my arm. She didn't go willingly, I knew that. There was no way in hell she would have just gone outside with no protection from the weather. A hard bulge pressed against my hip, reaching my hand into the pocket, I pulled out her wallet and phone. My heart sank. I couldn't breathe, the air wouldn't go down. No matter how hard I tried to force my lungs to take it in, the oxygen couldn't break the seal of my throat. The

372/409

entire room turned to black, my eyes coating in a shade of red. Stefan is dead. Forcing my head to clear, I knew I had to get to her. She was in danger, he had taken her, and I was going to get her back. Glancing around the room, I looked through the faces, searching for my father. For everything he hadn't done for me since I was born, he was going to help me right then and there. Finally, I spotted him leaning against the far wall, with an ice pack clinging to his jaw. My mother was caressing his shoulder, whispering into his ear. My dad was motionless, except for his chin moving side to side beneath the ice. I had hit him pretty hard, he was definitely going to feel that for a few days. Making a direct line for him, the people in front of me were a blur. Voices chimed into my ears, but the sounds were a blend of

373/409

just wordless tones. I wasn't stopping for anyone, a fire was burning inside me, and there was no calming the flames. Half way across the room, I broke into a run. My dad's eyes enlarged, his back stiffening against the wall. Pressing a hand to my chest, my mother stepped between us. “Hegan, enough! No more fighting!” Wrapping my fingers around hers, A worried expression fell over my face. “He took her, he took Noella.” Looking over my mother, I stared at my dad. “Did you tell him to do this? Why, huh? Why did you have him take her?” “What are you talking about?” My mother glanced between us, brows raising high. “Who took Noella?” “Stefan, he took her and I think he's bringing her to your boat. Where is it?!” Rocking on the balls of my feet, fear had started to roll up my spine. I could taste it, a mix of rotten meat with sour lemon. The

374/409

flavor was creeping to the surface, coating my mouth. “Hegan, why would he take her? Maybe she needed to go somewhere, the poor girl was just embarrassed.” Cocking her head, she glared at my father. Holding up her jacket, I yanked the items from the pocket. “Without her jacket? With out these?” Shaking the wallet, I stepped in closer to my father. “Where is your boat docked?” “Hegan, I didn't tell Stefan to do anything with Noella. Look I'm sorry, but—” Cutting him off, I said, “But nothing! Where is your fucking boat?!” I had been so fixated on us, that I hadn't noticed the entire party had stopped. Every eye was set on us; on me. But I didn't care, let them gawk at me; none of them meant a fucking thing to me. “It's at the marina, dock twenty.” My father placed his hand over my shoulder,

375/409

squeezing firmly. “Go, go get her.” Letting the ice pack fall from his chin, he jammed his hand into his pocket, pulling out his keys. “I'm calling the police, but you go get her. I know you really care for her, Hegan. And I'm sorry, I shouldn't have acted like that.” I didn't know what to say. Never in my life had my father admitted he was wrong, or apologized for something he'd done. It didn't matter if his wrong doings were thrown in his face, he never admitted to them. But now, right that moment, he did. “Thanks,” I said. Curling my fingers around the warm metal, I turned and ran through the room. I didn't stop, I ran until I hit his car. With the cold handle in my grasp, I flung the door open. There wasn't time to think, only time to act. Noella needed me, that was all I could think about. And nothing was going to stop me from saving her. My father was serious, he hadn't told him to take her. If he had he

376/409

would've said it, he would've gave some lame excuse for his actions. Except, he was just as shocked as I was. His face hung, eyes filled with the same fear I had tasted. Stefan had decided to do this on his own, it was his idea to take her, no one else. My foot slammed down on the pedal, tires peeling out on the ice as I tore out of the driveway. For the first time in my life, I realized I had meaning; an actual purpose that was more than just money and pussy. Noella; Noella was my purpose. She was the one thing I'd finally found that actually brought me happiness. She made me feel, really feel. It's hard to explain having gone an entire lifetime with no true emotions. But she breathed a new life into me, gave me a new outlook on the world. I was meant to find her, she was meant for me. Watching the road, the lines meshed into one large strip, the lights flying by in a flash.

377/409

The marina was a fifteen minute ride, but it felt like eternity. The car couldn't go fast enough, no matter how hard I pressed my foot down, the dial was in slow motion. Fuck! Come on! I wanted to wish myself there, wish myself standing there on the dock. She needed me now, not after he did whatever he was planning. And I wasn't exactly sure how long they had been gone for. I was counting down the exits in my head, only two left, that was all that stood between the marina and me. Gripping the steering wheel tighter, my blood was boiling inside my veins. I could feel the heat stir up deep inside my muscles, straining against the skin. The one thing I couldn't wrap my head around was why Stefan had done that. He had stolen her, yanked her from my home, and right out from under my nose. I hadn't seen this coming, never did I expect he would run off with Noella.

378/409

But he was going to understand how bad he fucked up. A piece of me hoped the cops got there before I did, for his sake. It was only a small piece of me that wanted that, the rest wanted to beat the living shit out of him. And that's exactly what I planned on doing. Pulling into the marina, I turned the car off and took a deep breath. Stepping out of the car, the only sound around me was the waves crashing against the deserted boats. It was an eerie silence under the crisp clear sky; the stars were sparkling, moon shining down with a blazing glow. I thought it seemed much brighter than usual, I had a clear view of the walkway and docks. None of the wood was covered in snow, it had melted away from the salty air and high waves that smacked against the sides. Squinting my eyes, I could see a faint glow of light up ahead. The small windows

379/409

were dark, but the light peeked out around the edges of the curtains. That was where I knew I needed to be, where I'd find Noella. Walking as gingerly as I could, I didn't want to make a sound. I needed to be a whisper in the air, a shadow in the night. Stefan might have expected me to be coming, and if he didn't... All the better for me. I tried to stay hidden, darting between the other boats, listening for any movement; but there was nothing. Slowly, I approached the boat; 'Bernadette' printed boldly on the side. Watching the windows, I waited to see if anyone was walking around inside. Straining my ears, I tried to make out the soft muffles behind the walls. It's now or never. Just go already! Noella needs you! Moving my feet as quick and quietly as I could, I climbed onto the deck. Pausing briefly, I tilted my head closer

380/409

to the door. I could hear her crying, then I heard the one thing I never wanted to hear. Stefan yelled, “Shut up!” A loud smack rang through the air, and Noella let out a small yelp. That was it, my rage took hold. He had hit her, I heard him hit her. And no one was ever going to touch her that way. Stefan wasn't going to lay another hand on her, I was going to break both his arms. Flaring my nostrils, everything seeped out of my brain. The only color I saw was crimson. Gripping the metal bars in front of the stairs that lead underneath, I held myself up and kicked the door open. My muscles had engorged, squeezing around the fabric of my shirt. Stepping inside, I set my sight on Stefan. He was standing only a few feet away, gun held up to his nose.

381/409

“Well, isn't this sweet. You came after all.” His lips curled up, eyes batting his lids coyly. “Let her go, Stefan.” Taking a long step, I walked towards him. His chest rolled, releasing an evil laugh. “Are you fucking kidding me? I should shoot you both, save me the trouble of having to see your faces anymore.” Bringing a finger to his eye, he scratched the corner. “Looks like you're about to get what you deserve.” “Did you not hear me? I said let her go.” Balling my fists, I glanced over at Noella. She was tied up, knees scrunched to her chest on the floor. A red welt swelled under her eye, body trembling. “See, I knew he would come for me, Stefan. You fucking asshole,” she said, inhaling deep breaths. “Why are you doing this?” Shaking my head side to side, I took another step in. “Put the gun down, or you're really going to regret this.”

382/409

“You're in no position to tell me what to do. Not anymore.” Turning the gun sideways, he slid closer to Noella. “You don't get it, none of you fucking get it!” Lifting his thumb, he cocked the pin back. “Get what?” Holding my hands up, palms out. I wanted him to think I wasn't a threat, maybe get him to drop his guard. Then I would make my move. He had a gun, he could shoot me if he wanted too. But I wasn't going to let him harm Noella, I didn't care if he shot me, as long as she was able to get out. “Do I have to spell it out for you? You're an ungrateful bastard, Hegan! Everything our father did for you, everything that I should have too, and you treat him like shit!” Our father? Did he just say our father? “Yeah, I know I haven't exactly been the greatest son, but it goes both ways. He could have done things different. Did you just say our father?” Cocking my head, brow arched,

383/409

I tried to get myself between Stefan and Noella. His lips parted, chuckling. “Are you seeing it yet? Look at me!” Holding his arms out wide, he glanced up and down himself. That was my chance, I charged him. Hitting him hard, I wrapped my arms around his waist. Falling to the floor, the gun went off. My ears buzzed, the deafening pop split through the cabin. Holding his chest down, I pulled my hand back and laid a hard blow into his face. My knuckles hit the soft flesh, a crunching sound billowed around me. And I couldn't stop, punch after punch rained down onto Stefan. I hit him until all the air seemed to escape his chest. His body went limp and lifeless, head angled towards his shoulder. Pressing off him, I stood and turned towards Noella. She was yanking the rope from her wrists, freeing herself. Shifting her gaze to me, she yelled, “Hegan! Look out!”

384/409

I tried to duck, but Stefan laid into my skull with his elbow. Dropping to my knees, he kicked me in the back, my head was twirling, vision fuzzy. Rolling to my back, Stefan was standing above me, holding a knife from the counter. “Hegan!” Noella yelled, sliding the gun that he'd dropped my way. Wrapping my fingers around the handle, I held it up and fired. Stefan stumbled backwards, eyes open wide, staring at me with a shocked expression. The sound of sirens started to roll in the distance. Holding his shoulder, Stefan slid down to the floor. “He's my dad too, half of this was mine, Hegan. You never deserved any of it.” Letting his head fall back, his eyes closed. Climbing to my feet, gun still held firm on him. “What?” “I'm your brother, well your half-brother.” The air from his chest heaved out, head

385/409

tilting towards me. “Brandon doesn't know it yet. That's why I went to your house that day, not for the butler job. But I was too nervous to tell him, and when he asked if I was there about the job I froze.” “Are you fucking kidding me? So why didn't you say anything?” I wasn't sure if that was another ruse by him, or if he was being honest. I didn't trust him, never did, and certainly not after he just tried to kill me. Shrugging his shoulders, Stefan made an aching noise. “I don't know, then I found out about his plan for you to have a baby and when she came along, I knew I'd never get what was owed to me.” “I don't care about the baby, Stefan. I told my dad that tonight. He can keep his fucking money, I don't want it. Noella...” Eyeing her from over my shoulder, I said, “She's all that matters to me, nothing else.”

386/409

The loud pounding of feet echoed over the boat. “Drop the gun!” A police officer yelled from behind me. Letting the gun fall to the floor, I held my arms up. Noella ran over to me and wrapped her arms around my waist. A large group of armed policemen rushed into the cabin, swooping the weapon up, and taking Noella and me out of the boat. I was shocked, I had a half brother that was fucking crazy as hell and tried to kill me. Standing at the ambulance, I watched them put Stefan into another one and drive away. Noella draped her arms around my chest, head resting firmly against me. Looking up at me, she asked, “Did you mean that? That you don't care anymore about the money or having a baby?” “Every word of it. I don't need that shit to get what I want, I already had what I wanted.” Slipping my thumb under her chin, I pulled her to my face. “I only need you, all

387/409

the money in the world couldn't make me as happy as you do.” Flickering her eyes between mine, lashes fluttering, I pressed my lips against hers. They were warm, soft velvet against my skin. Breaking the seal, she hovered her lips against my cheek. “So what are you really saying, Hegan?” The words weren't hard to find, they had been sitting on my tongue all night. “I love you.” “I love you too.” Her whisper sent chills across my body, a feeling I never experienced until then. “And just to let you know, I'm pregnant.” If I hadn't been dizzy already from the blow to the head, I would have been when she said that. Grabbing her shoulders, I pulled her back. “Are you fucking with me?” “No,” she said with a smile. “I took the test earlier today, and it came back positive.”

388/409

Her fingers swirled across my chest, tugging gently on my shirt. My heart started to race, even wilder than having the gun to my face. Noella was pregnant. She was having my baby. Wrapping my arms around her waist, I lifted her up, and spun her in a circle. I hadn't really thought about how I would've reacted; or what I would've thought if she had actually gotten pregnant. But it was nothing short of elation. I'm going to be dad. Wow, a baby. I couldn't believe it. I was going to be a father. Life would never be the same. Everything about the world I knew, looked different. It changed in a split second. And that was a welcomed feeling.

Epilogue Noella “You ready?” Hegan asked, slipping the shirt over his head. A soft smile lifted across his face, eyes beaming as he looked me over. “Yeah, I'm ready.” Reaching for the nightstand, I attempted to sit myself up. Grunting, I rolled back onto the bed. “I think I need a little help.” Chuckling, my stomach hurt as it bounced up and down. His laughter couldn't be contained, I watched his chest rapidly rise as he tried to inhale between breaths. “It's a good thing I'm here, otherwise you'd be stuck.” Stepping to the edge of the bed, he held his hands out. Wrapping my fingers around his palms, I squeezed tightly. Hegan's muscles formed

390/409

beneath the short sleeves of his shirt. Rolling into a firm ball, the other muscles followed, contracting in a wave as he pulled me to my feet. Trailing a finger down the center of his chest, it rode the steps of his abs back to his shoulders. “Thanks,” I said, leaning in and kissing his cheek softly. “Anything for you and my little guy in there.” His hands fell to the large basketball resting under my sundress. I was eight months pregnant, and ready to pop. And that day couldn't come soon enough. It was hot as hell out; the middle of August was not an easy month for a pregnant woman. The week before we had gone grocery shopping, and I swear the hot flash that hit me was like nothing I ever felt before. Instantly sweat beaded up on my neck, my face turned a cherry red, and I found myself sitting in a cooler with the frozen vegetables.

391/409

Resting my hand on the small of my back, I made the attempt to look down at my feet. They were there at one time, I remembered having feet. And ankles, and a vagina. Yes, my vagina, a sight I have long forgotten what it looked like. I couldn't wait to have this baby and finally see all of me again. “God, I'm a whale.” Palming my belly, I turned sideways in the mirror. Jolting slightly, I gripped the edge of the dresser. “Are you alright?” His eyes filled with concern, placing a hand on my back, he wrapped the other around my stomach. “Yeah, yeah I'm fine,” I said, trying to push the air back into my lungs. “Jackson just gave me one hell of a kick. Maybe he didn't like my whale comment?” Smiling, I straightened my back, tugging my shoulders towards each other to stretch. “Well, he's right. You're not a whale, you're beautiful.” Spinning me around, he

392/409

looked right into my eyes. “The most beautiful thing I have seen in my life.” His thumbs ran down the line of my jaw, cupping under my neck. Tilting into his hands, I looked up under hooded lids. “Really? Because I feel like a human host. Like my body's not my own anymore, it's been taken over.” “Stop it. You're carrying my baby, and that in itself makes you more beautiful than you can ever imagine.” Pressing his lips against mine, he kissed me with such passion. I could feel him in my nerves, in my soul. Hegan had been sent here for me to find, or rather for him to find me. Everything we had been through was worth it, all for this moment. The love of my life, holding me in his arms; made me feel like the most special person in the world.

393/409

And we were having a baby, a piece of both of us was going to be brought into this world. A little version of us. I've been trying to guess what Jackson would look like. Would he have my eyes? Maybe Hegan's dimple in his chin? It was exciting to think that in no time at all he would be here, and I would have my answers. “So, where are you taking me for lunch? I'm kind of in the mood for a cheeseburger.” Licking my lips, I opened my eyes wide. That had been my craving, burgers. I couldn't get enough of them. Well, burgers, and coffee cakes. I'm pretty sure I've eaten a pallet sized dose of coffee cakes these past three months. I'd been warned the cravings would hit and they'd be unstoppable. Holy shit, my mom was right! I hadn't had a coffee cake since I was at least five, and now I couldn't get enough of them. “What a surprise, a burger. Well, you're just going to have to wait and see, it's a

394/409

surprise.” Winking, he slid my purse off the dresser and pulled it over my arm. “Really? You're going to tease a pregnant woman?” Tisking, my head swayed side to side. “I don't know, Hegan. That might be a bad move on your part, the couch could end up being your bed for tonight.” “Ha! Is that right?” His mouth hung open, cocked to the side in a huge smile. “Yeah,” I said, nudging him in the ribs. “I doubt it. You couldn't do that even if you really wanted too.” “Oh yeah, and why's that?” “Because, how the hell would you get up during the night if you had to pee? I wouldn't be right there to help you.” His eye brows lifted high. “Then you'd be in a wet mess.” Smacking his chest, I laughed. “Gross!” Pursing my lips, I said, “Alright, fair enough. But if I don't get a burger now, that's what we're having for dinner.” Starting towards

395/409

the door, I whipped around and rested my hand on his chest. “And breakfast.” “Anything for you my love.” Nestling his head into my neck, he smothered me in small kisses. The tickling of his lips forced my head to scrunch up to my shoulder. “Okay, okay. Let's go, baby is starving.” Hegan helped me into the car, holding the door and making sure I was all set before he got into the driver seat. “Okay, now I told you lunch was a surprise. So, you need to put this on.” Holding out a deep blue sleep mask, it dangled from his finger. “What?” Squinting my eyes, I smiled smugly. “Are you serious?” “Yes I'm serious. I don't want you to see where we're going.” Flicking the mask back and forth over his finger, his face was filled with excitement.

396/409

What the hell does he have planned? A mask? That was one thing I found to love about Hegan. He was adventurous. After that night on the boat, Hegan seemed to be a completely different person. It was like he looked at life in a whole new light. Finding out I was pregnant, I think it made him look at his father in different light too. He started to understand that even though his dad's way of showing he cared wasn't conventional, or healthy; Brandon really just wanted him to strive for something. He wanted to see Hegan have goals in life, more than just partying and getting laid. And I can say that Brandon also had a change of heart. He understood his son a little more, saw he was too cut throat with him, expecting Hegan to be just like he was. Brandon started to ease off him, he gave him

397/409

the chance to find himself, and supported what he wanted to do. Hegan, he wanted to race. He loved cars and driving fast, and now his dad was helping him get into the right training so he could hopefully turn that need for the rush into a career. It was amazing to see the oneeighty these two guys did. After that night, after Stefan. It turned out that Brandon had a one night stint years ago, ten years before Hegan was born to be exact. Unbeknownst to him, the woman had gotten pregnant. But, after what Stefan pulled, he'll be spending the rest of his life behind bars. Aggravated kidnapping, attempted murder, that didn't get him the money he wanted, it got him locked up. Tugging the mask off his fingers, I held it up. “This better be good.” Pulling the elastic, I placed the thick fabric over my eyes, and everything went black.

398/409

Listening to the rumble of the engine, I rolled my window down, and tried to see if I could figure out by the sounds outside, where exactly we were going. “What are you doing? You better not be peeking under that mask.” I could only hear his voice, but I knew he was smiling. “What? I'm trying to figure out where we're going.” Turning towards his voice, I honestly couldn't see a damn thing. Not even a glow from the bright summer sun seeped behind the mask. “Is it working?” His laugh hit my ears as his fingers gripped my thigh. Shaking slightly from the surprise of his touch, I twined my fingers into his. “No,” I said, pouting my lips. “Well, we're almost there.” The blinker echoed off the dashboard, the sound of his hand dragged across the wheel as it turned. “Don't move, I'll get you out.”

399/409

Huffing under my breath, my stomach gurgled beneath the bright flower dress I was wearing. “You better hurry up before I decide to eat the headrest.” Placing my hands on my belly, I felt the baby kick against my palm. “Jackson said to hurry too.” “Boy, he's pushy already,” Hegan said, as I heard him push his door open, and clunk shut. Sitting with my hands folded against my lap, it seemed like having my vision gone made the world around me enhance. I could hear muffled voices outside my door, soft chuckles in the distance. But I still had no clue where we were. The heat from outside burst into the vehicle as Hegan opened my door. “I hope this place has air conditioning. This heat is brutal.” Hegan took my hand, and I swung my legs out till my feet hit the pavement. “Noella, I don't know of that many places that don't have central air nowadays. And

400/409

trust me, I know you and the heat don't mix right now.” A big smile formed across my lips, pulling up to my ears. “Aww, you do listen to me. I love you, Hegan.” The teasing tone playfully fueled my voice. “I know you do, and I love you too. Hold my hand, I'll guide you inside.” His fingers wrapped inside mine, the other hand falling over my shoulder. “I can't take this thing off yet? You know my eyes are starting to sweat.” “You'll live, it's only a two minute walk.” Bracing my shoulder, he said, “Step up.” Following every direction, I let him guide into the unknown building. The cool air wrapped around my body, soothing my boiling insides. Letting out a comforted exhale, I listened to my flip flops smack against the tile floor. Where are we? I wondered, hearing the music crackle through the speakers above my head.

401/409

It was my favorite singer, and she was singing my favorite song. Did he do this? I've never heard her before in a restaurant. Was this another piece to his surprise? It seemed ironic to me that he had brought me here, and that was the song I walked into. Pressing his hand against my chest, he whispered into my ear. “Okay, you ready?” Shaking my head yes, my hands started to clam up. Wiping them over my dress, Hegan slowly pulled the veil from my eyes. My heart began to race, eyes welling up with tears. The mass of people before me all screamed. “Surprise!” The sounds of all their voices meshed into one massive baritone. Holding my hands to my mouth, I stood speechless. Glancing around, the room was decorated in blue and white balloons. Large bouquets of deep blue flowers speckled with white sparkling spiral sticks sat on every table.

402/409

And there was my mother, standing proudly, gleaming with a glow I hadn't seen in years. She looked so happy, so excited to be there watching my face. Hegan had made me a promise at the mansion, a promise he stood true to. And because of that, my mom was here, enjoying this moment. And I couldn't be thankful enough for that. I tired to take it all in, spot every face in the crowd. Hegan's parents were off to the side, arms wrapped around each other. Brandon stood with closed smile, rubbing Stella's shoulders. And she had the warmest glow, eyes twinkling as she cupped her hands over her mouth. They had accepted me, welcomed me into their world; even before they found out about the baby. Brandon was able to see how Hegan felt about me, I think his determination to protect me reminded Brandon of himself in a way. It might not have been

403/409

towards the same goal, money; but it was filled with the same confidence and fire. This was my baby shower, that was his surprise. A huge banner hung across the back wall, reading 'See you soon, Jackson!' “Surprised?” Hegan said, curling his arms the best he could around my protruding stomach. “You could say that, yeah.” Tightly I wriggled my fingers into his, letting my head fall back against his chest. “Can you see the food table? I had to make special arrangements, but luckily it all came together nicely.” Tipping up onto my toes, I looked beyond the people to a long table in the back. Stacks of cheeseburgers were piled on two large platters, coffee cakes on another. There were large punch bowls filled with orange juice; another thing I couldn't get enough of. And a bunch of other picky food items I had demanded over the past few months.

404/409

Salt and vinegar chips, pork rinds, a bit of everything I forced him to go out and get me. He had remembered them all and adorned the food table with them. “Hegan, I can't believe you did this. It's amazing.” My hand ran up around his neck, fingertips twirling in his hair. “All for you and our little man.” Gently he kissed my neck, the hot air sending chills down my spine. “I love you, and the life we're going to build together.” Twisting my head, I looked into his eyes. Taking in the most amazing man I had ever met. He brought my mom here, having her here with us meant everything to me. Life was turning out to be a good thing. The life I had been leading turned in so many different directions, bringing me here. With Hegan, with this baby, this life growing inside me... It was meant to be. All of it.

405/409

Scars are what make our life worth living, they make you who you are. Without them, life wouldn't be a story at all. And this was my story.

The End

Click Here to Join Leah's Mailing List

About Leah Holt Growing up in a small town with little to offer, Leah Holt's imagination was able to run wild. She loves to write romance with intense alpha guys, the ones we all desire but dare not admit to. Who doesn't love a bad boy riddled with muscles and tattoos? Having limited opportunities in life, writing has become an outlet for her to let out all of the dirty, forbidden thoughts inside of her head. If you want to chat with her, you can email [email protected] , or click the mailing list link below to receive information on her new releases!

Click Here to Join Leah's Mailing List

Connect with Leah! Facebook- www.facebook.com/ LeahHoltAuthor

Also from Leah Holt: CHAINED: A Bad Boy Romance SLAM: A Bad Boy Romance Come Home Bad Boy

@Created by PDF to ePub