Inside the Office - F. L. Jacob

Inside the Office Copyright ©2016 by F.L Jacob Cover Art by F.L. Jacob Photo purchased from Bigstock.com Editing by F.L. Jacob Interior design by F.L. Jacob All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing. This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owner. All rights reserved. ISBN-13: 978-1530854653 ISBN-10: 1530854652

“Sometimes our light goes out, but is blown again into instant flame by an encounter with another human being.” – Albert Schweitzer

For my friends who are at a bypass in their lives. Know this too shall pass and you will be stronger because of it. I’m here for you to call on day or night.

“Hey man, I’ll call you later. I’ve got to get in the gym.” “I can’t believe you’re doing that shit.” Zach pokes. Shutting the door to my Jeep, I swing my bag over my shoulder. “You told me to clear my head and do what was best for me.” “Yeah, but I meant to jack off and buy

a sports car or some shit like that.” Laughing, I shake my head. “I did buy the sports car. Still need to get out of the house, though. I can’t work twenty-fourseven.” “You could go out to a bar or join a dating site. Live a little.” Zach sighs, “I’m just worried about your social life or lack thereof.” “I’m just fine, thank you very much.” “But it’s been so long since you’ve gotten laid, man. Your cock is going to shrivel up and die. It’s shameful. I might have to take away your man card.” “Fuck you. I’ve gotten laid. I just don’t blab it to you.” I’m lying. There hasn’t been anyone since Sawyer, but I

would never admit that to Zach. “I’m hanging up on you now.” “Just don’t get all body builder on me.” I roll my eyes, “Whatever, Zach.” Hanging up, I open the door to the local gym. I wasn’t myself after Sawyer and I broke up. I fell into a depressed state, ate non-stop, vegged in front of the television, and mostly worked from home. Zach had finally had enough and staged an intervention. Granted it was just him and his wife, Mia, but it still brought me out of my funk. Mia helped me get my house back in shape. Since she’s pregnant, she claimed I was helping her with nesting, whatever

the fuck that is. Zach helped me outside with the yard that I had let become pitiful and overgrown. Later that evening, the three of us rid the house of anything that reminded me of Sawyer, which sadly wasn’t much. When we finished, we held a bonfire in the back yard and burned it all. There were pictures and nick knacks and, even though I told Mia it was a lame idea, I got a sense of satisfaction watching the flames rise as my past burned away. We even roasted s’mores to celebrate a new beginning. The day after the intervention, I rose from bed feeling rested and my mind was finally clear. I went for a walk. My

walks turned into runs, and then I joined the gym down the road. It’s a small building with some old-timers keeping the place running. I’m not bulked out like some of those models that Sawyer used to fawn over, but I have toned up and filled out. Mostly, I’m feeling like a new and improved person, and that’s the best part. “Hey Phil, take it easy on those weights.” I laugh when I see the seventyyear-old, gray-haired grandpa trying to lift some free weights. He grunts at me, waving his hand to dismiss my warning as Rudy laughs and welcomes me back. After putting my bag in my locker, I get right to my workout.

A few hours later, I make my way to the mall. The only thing that I’ve been holding on to that reminds me of Sawyer is burning a hole in my pocket. I didn’t tell Mia and Zach that I still had it. I needed to get rid of it on my terms and today is finally the day. Walking into the jewelry store, I spot the salesperson that I worked with over six months ago. “Ready to pick out those wedding bands?” the cheerful woman asks as she walks over to me. Giving my best fake smile, I clear my throat, “Actually, I need information on returning the ring for store credit.” She gasps and clutches her chest. “Oh, that’s awful.”

Taking the box out of my pocket, it’s worn on the edges from traveling with me. Setting it on the counter, I hover my hand over it before pushing it toward her. Her apologetic smile is almost too much for me to handle. I didn’t think it would be this hard. I’ve been doing so well clearing my head and heart of Sawyer, but this is just bringing everything back to the surface., “Let me see what I can do.” She takes the box and walks into the back room leaving me alone at the counter. Feeling awkward, I look around at all the couples going gaga over rings, and I want to scream at them to run and don’t look back. Don’t put yourself

through the heartache I’ve endured, but I shut my eyes tight and take a few deep breaths. My attention is pulled back when the sales woman returns from the back room. She has papers in her hand, and she goes over them in detail. After a while, her voice begins to sound like the teacher from the Charlie Brown cartoon. “Where do I need to sign?” I stop her mid-sentence before she finishes her explanation of the return. Smiling she points to the line at the bottom of the page, “Right here, Mr. Scott. I do hope we can do business with you in the future.”

“Doubtful.” Reluctantly, I sign everything and initial where needed. I custom designed the ring I had made for Sawyer, so I was only able to receive a store credit. Watching her take the ring away for the last time was surreal. I spent months working extra just to afford that piece of metal, and it was all for nothing. Sighing, I make my way out into the hustle and bustle of the weekend mall crowd. I pull my phone out of my pocket to check my emails, oblivious to anything around me. Still thinking about the work email regarding a new lead, I walk into someone, causing them to drop everything they’re carrying. I begin

apologizing as I bend over to help them pick up the items, now strewn all over the floor. I reach out to grab one of the items and pause when I see what it is. My eyes zero in on the red lacy thong, and as I let my focus drift, I see that I’m surrounded by a rainbow of thongs instantly making my dick stand at attention. Before I can will the thing down, a small hand reaches out and scoops them all up. Looking up at the crouched woman in from of me, I can’t help but laugh. “Marissa?!” Her eyes go wide, and she flushes as we both stand up. I’ve never seen her

looking like this before. She’s wearing flip-flops, black yoga pants, and a tank top that shows off every delicious curve of her body. Her hair is up in a messy bun on the top of her head with some strands falling around her round face bringing attention to the glasses she’s wearing. I’m mesmerized by her eyes, and I’m finding it hard to look away. They are two different colors, and I’m not sure how I haven’t noticed that before. One is the lightest blue, the color of the sky on a sunny day, and the other is a majestic green that would make any emerald jealous. She folds the iconic pink-striped bag from Victoria Secret as small as she can

make it and puts it under her arm. “You’re a little late hiding the bag—I saw everything in it.” Leaning forward, I whisper, “Not to mention we’re standing in front of the store.” Marissa’s hand flies up to her forehead, and she shakes her head looking away from me, a light blush staining her cheeks. With a laugh, she says, “I’m so embarrassed.” “Don’t be. It’s just me.” When she finally looks up into my eyes, I smile the first genuine smile in months. “I’ve never seen you wear glasses before.” Covering her face once again, she mumbles into her hand, “Oh God, I look terrible today.”

“I’d beg to differ.” Guiding her hand from her face, I pull it down so she can’t cover her eyes anymore. She fidgets with her glasses as she meets my eyes again. We’re in a trance of some sort and my heart jumps, but the moment is broken as Marissa stumbles forward when a guy knocks into her from behind. I reach out quickly and catch her before she falls to the ground. “Does no one have any common courtesy anymore?” She yells over my shoulder to the asswipe that ran into her. We stood embracing a little longer than necessary, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel a little zap of lightening with her arms braced on mine. “Want me to

beat him up or something?” Marissa laughs as she straightens up. “You’re fine. We’re the ones stopped in the middle of the walkway.” Looking around, I reach up and rub the back of my neck. “Yeah, I’m never at the mall, so I’m not used to the flow of traffic.” Marissa chuckles, “I’m here more often than my wallet would like.” She looks around to make sure she has all her bags before smiling at me again. “Well, thanks for rescuing me after running into me.” Nodding, I pause and just stare at how beautiful she is. Have I just been blind before? She tucks a stray hair

behind her ear and steps to the side to continue walking by me. Turning around when she’s past me, I take a few quick steps and reach for her elbow, stopping her in her tracks. “Hey, would you like to have lunch with me?”

After she agrees to eat with me, we make our way over to the food court on the next level of the mall. Arriving there and looking around at all the noisy teenagers, we decide it would be better to eat elsewhere. We agree on the Italian

place across the street, and since my car is outside the food court, I insisted on driving us. Without thinking, I grab her hand as I guide her across traffic and down the row of cars until we come to my brand new Ford Mustang. “Nice car.” She chuckles nervously when I pop the trunk and put my bags in. “Thanks. I needed something new and who doesn’t like fast cars?” “I agree,” she nods with a smile. “Exactly why I have the 350z.” “Great car. Want to put your bags in here?” I place my hand on the trunk ready to shut it. Smiling, her face colors with the cutest pink tint when she shifts the bag

from under her arm remembering that I know what’s in it. “I think I’m going to keep them with me.” Winking at her, I nod, shut the trunk lid, and step to her side to open the door like a gentleman. “Oh, it’s still got the new car smell,” she sighs as she reaches forward to rub her hand across the leather dashboard. I shut the door, and make my way to my side, sliding into the soft black leather seats. Revving the engine, I back out of the spot and head for the restaurant. Thankfully, we are only in the car for a couple of minutes, so there isn’t any awkward silence. I find a spot close to the door, and

before she has a chance, I jump out and open her door for her. She gets out and looks at me like I have two heads. “What?” “I can honestly say you’ve held the door more for me in the last five minutes than any of my previous dates.” My stomach drops and the blood chills in my veins as a cold sweat breaks out on my brow. Is this a date? I didn’t mean for it to be a date, did I? Fuck. My heart begins to beat at an ungodly speed. She must sense my trepidation because she stops at the back of my car when she realizes I’m not following her. Marissa’s playful smile and twinkling eyes flirt with my emotions. “You comin’?”

I stand blinking like an idiot as she turns around and jogs toward the door. I can’t help but let my gaze fall on her ass. It looks amazing in her yoga pants and my dick twitches when it remembers the purchases in the bag. Quickly shutting the door, I forget my nerves and jog to catch up with her. “Oh, no you don’t. You can’t tell me that no one opens doors for you then take away my opportunity to be a gentleman.” She laughs and grabs onto my arm, nudging her body into me. Opening the door, I make an overly exaggerated gesture guiding her into the restaurant. There are a few people following us in, so I continue holding the door for them.

When I get in, Marissa has already talked to the hostess. “Would you mind sitting in the bar?” she asks me. “I’m game for anything at this point. I’m starving.” She smiles and nods to the hostess that we agree on the bar area for our seats. We’re seated in the back corner booth in the bar area. Marissa lets her hair down and flips it, making it swish around so she can gather it to put it up again. The scent of her hair makes my mouth water. I realize I’m gawking at her, but I just can’t help it. Watching her hair glitter under the bar lights is mesmerizing.

“What?” she laughs when she notices me staring. “Nothing. I just can’t get over how different you look outside of work. Cocking her head, she squints her eyes. “I’m self-conscious about my eyes, so I wear contacts that make them both the same color. People stare too much, make comments about them and I hate it.” “I don’t think you should hide them. They’re amazing and beautiful.” Picking up my menu, I glance at the items, but I can see her over the top of the plastic covered paper. She just sits there, not moving at all. “I try to blend in at the office.” Her

tone is defensive. I set the menu down and cross my arms on the tabletop. I lean forward and make sure she sees I'm truthful. “You shouldn’t, you should be yourself.” Picking up her menu, she sits back and puts it over her face so she can’t see me. Chuckling, I continue to decide what I’m going to get. We sit in silence for a few minutes with only the restaurant’s romantic Italian music playing in the background. The waitress takes our order and leaves us talking. We talk about nothing important, but it’s relaxed and comfortable. I realize that as we talk, I can’t take my eyes off her lips as she

wraps them around the rim of her wine glass. They are the perfect heart shape with a slightly pouty look. My mind wanders and I find myself drifting off to imagine her on her knees in front of me licking her lips as she takes my cock into her mouth I muffle my groan when I shift the painful situation in my pants that my daydream has put me in. Before I’m tempted to say screw lunch, I excuse myself to the bathroom to regroup my thoughts. Taking my phone out of my pocket, I text Zach. I’m in trouble. He responds immediately. How much do you need and where

do I need to send the bail money? Laughing out loud, I get a strange look from the guy stepping out of the stall. Dialing him, I lean on the wall and wait for the phone to connect. “I’m not in jail you idiot.” “Then what’s the problem?” “I think I’m on a date,” I admit as I run my hand over my buzz cut. “You think? Dude, we need to work on your social life if you don’t know,” Zach chides, making me growl. “I’m with Marissa,” I spit out quickly. That got his attention immediately, “My Marissa?” There is a short silence.

“Not mine, but shit, you know what I mean.” He stumbles for the correct words. “Yeah.” “Fuck me.” The words are drawn out, and I can hear the trepidation in Zach’s voice. “Yeah, I know.” “Well, damn, what’re you doing on the phone with me then? She’s hot.” I shift my semi-erect dick and groan, “That’s the problem. I can’t focus on anything without my dick jumping to attention.” He laughs, “You and every guy in the office when they look at her. Stop being

such a girl, get that shit in order, and get back to her. Call me the minute you drop her off unless it turns into an overnight, then text me.” “Who’s the girl now wanting all the details? Plus, it isn’t like that.” I don’t think he even heard me because I’m left with nothing but a disconnected tone in my ear. I look at myself in the mirror and take a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves and my dick. Zach didn’t tell me this was a good idea, but he didn’t talk me out of it either. I feel bad when I get back to our table and see our appetizers and salads have arrived. She looks relieved when

she sees me. “Sorry, I got a call,” I apologize as I take my seat. “I’m just glad you didn’t skip out on me.” Marissa takes a bite of our risotto balls trying to mask the words. She’s trying to make a joke, but there is a serious sound to the words. “Who would do that?” Taking a sip of her wine, she mumbles, “You’d be surprised.” “So what you’re telling me is, no one’s held the door for you and you’ve been ditched on a date? What kind of guys do you date?” “Apparently shitty ones since I’m

still single. You know the muscular, macho, assholes who can’t focus on anything but themselves.” The wine is giving her liquid courage, and I’m finding the way she’s rambling adorably sexy. Serving herself another dish of salad, she continues, “I actually had one guy pose naked on my couch and ask me to snap his picture so he could tweet it.” I begin to choke on my water, and I’m lucky it doesn’t come out of my nose, but it doesn’t stop her, “Yeah, we were in the middle of making out and just about to have sex when he pulled that shit. Needless to say, I kicked his pansy ass to the curb. Well, the hallway, but still.” “That’s hilarious,” I manage to say

through a coughing fit. “That’s just the tip of the iceberg,” she says like it’s no big deal. Our conversation continues with us telling each other horror stories from our failed love encounters. Our lunch arrives, followed by dessert, and our talking doesn’t stop. No awkward silences, no checking our cell phones, just an easy conversation like we’ve known each other for years. Before we both know it, three hours have passed. Marissa’s taken her hair down, and the skin on her chest is flushed from the alcohol flowing through her. When the waitress brings the check, I shoo Marissa’s hand away.

“Let me pay my part,” she insists. “No way. I asked you here. Plus, how fair would it be for me to ask you to pay your way on a date?” I test out the word she used earlier, wondering how she will react to me using it. After spending so many hours with her, I’m more at ease than I’ve been in years, and I hope she doesn’t correct me. “But I drank two bottles of wine,” she whines with a pouty face. Winking at her, I place my credit card in the bill folder, “You mean truth serum.” She blushes and her mouth falls open, but she sits back and crosses her arms over her chest with a huff. I don’t think

she realizes, but with her arms crossed over like that, it pushes her breasts up high. They look round and full, and I have to resist the urge to reach out and touch them. She notices my gaze, and I see her chest still as her breath catches. When she licks her lush lips, I can’t help the words that leave my mouth. “You’re beautiful, Marissa.” I offer her my hand to guide her from her seat, and when she stumbles, I catch her wrapping my arms around her waist. My hand somehow manages to slide under her shirt, and it rests on her bare back. Her skin pebbles under my touch. Marissa braces herself on my forearms, and she slowly looks up at me

through her long eyelashes. Her voice is breathy and sexy as hell. “I keep finding myself in your arms Liam. Why is that?” Without thinking, I tip her head back with my finger under her chin and search her eyes for an answer to her question. When she takes her lip between her teeth and pushes herself closer to me, I don’t stop myself. I need to taste her. Wrapping my hand in the back of her hair, I pull her toward me and run my tongue along that pouty bottom lip that’s been teasing me all day. My heart races in my chest when our mouths connect, and she opens to me. When my tongue touches hers, an explosion of lust floods my body as her taste overtakes my

senses. Marissa sighs and lets her arms slide around my waist. I tighten my hold in her hair eliciting a moan from Marissa. Pulling apart, breathless from just our kiss, I rest our foreheads together. “I don’t think you should drive home.” She’s nipping at my lips, begging for more, “I don’t want to drive home tonight.” My voice is low and deep. “What do you want Marissa?” “I want you to take me to your house Liam. I need to taste more of you.”

We barely make it in the house before Marissa rips my shirt over my head. She throws it on the floor as we bang into the wall in the foyer, our mouths colliding in a hungry kiss. Her hands roam over the muscles on my chest, dipping into the

grooves of them as she scratches her nails over my skin. I groan into her mouth as she digs those nails into the skin on my back, making my body tighten with desire. It’s been so long since I’ve had a woman touch me like this, a woman who feels greedy for me, someone who desires me. I’d almost forgotten what it felt like, and I realize how much I’ve missed it. I feel her breasts through the fabric of her tank top, and I’m losing patience with the material blocking me from her skin. I separate our bodies, resisting the urge to rip her top from her body. I watch her, the heat burning in her eyes matching my own. I can’t take my eyes

off her hands as they move down her body, quickly removing her tank leaving her standing there topless. “My God, your tits are perfect.” My mouth waters and I step toward her again like a hungry wolf. Gripping her bare breasts, I push them together so I can kiss between both nipples with ease. Twirling my tongue around the hardened bud, I’m egged on when Marissa arches her body into mine and her hands run over the short spikes of my hair. Gently biting at her nipple with my teeth elicits a groan of pleasure from her. I run my finger down her toned stomach, loving the way her muscles shiver under it. When I reach her yoga

pants, I work my way inside, moving lower until I’m cupping her hot pussy. She thrusts forward into my touch and I take that as permission to keep going. Hooking my finger on the edge her panties pulling them to the side, I can run my finger through her heat. “Fuck Marissa, you’re soaked.” “I need more, Liam,” she begs breathless against my neck. Removing my hand, I kiss her again, “Bedroom. Now.” Her eyes are pleading. “Please hurry.” I don’t know how I manage to unbutton my jeans as I walk because Marissa’s touch on my skin is

distracting. They slide down over my hips as she runs her hands around my back, taking advantage of the extra few inches that have appeared. Her fingers tease their way along the top of my underwear, and I can feel my cock becoming even more painfully hard. When she steps in front of me, she looks up at me and her expression is sinful. Biting her lip, she kneels slowly pulling my jeans down further. My cock falls out, stopping mere inches from her face, and she licks her lips. Leaning toward me, she takes the entire length in her mouth until I hit the back of her throat with no warning or hesitation. Sucking in a deep breath, I try to keep my control so

I don’t come with the sensation of her tongue dancing along the underside of my cock. Her enthusiastic mouth mixed with her hands stroking over my balls is almost too much to take. “Slow down, baby. I don’t want to come in your mouth.” My warning only seems to push her further, so I cup her chin, easing her up and away from my aching dick. Pulling her to my mouth, I place my hands on her hips and walk her back toward the bed as I assault her lips with mine. When her legs connect with the side of the mattress, I ease her down, and my mouth trails a line of kisses over her shoulders

and down her stomach. I pull her yoga pants down, but I leave her underwear in place. I’ve been dying to see her thong after our mishap in the mall. It doesn’t disappoint, as a red lace, barely there scrap of material covers her from me. Marissa withers under my gaze. “Liam . . .” I can tell she’s uncomfortable with my stare, so I lean forward and place a kiss just at the top of her pubic bone above the lace. Her breath catches, and she arches off the bed. Bending over, I hook my fingers into the edge of the material separating us and slowly pull it down. Her glistening pussy comes into view and my heart races. She’s bare except

for a small patch at the top of her slit. It’s in the shape of a heart. Chuckling lightly, I lean forward and let my tongue graze her. She moans loudly, her hands tangling in my sheets, pulling at them to try to relieve herself any way she can. My body reacts to the taste of her, and I can’t get enough. My tongue dips and teases her to the brink of orgasm, and I slide my fingers into her, tipping her over the edge into ecstasy. screams out, and I feel a flood of wetness hit my mouth. I curl my finger up to reach her G-spot, wanting her to have more pleasure before I take mine. After a few readjustments, I hit it, and she bucks off the bed. It only takes a few brushes with

my thumb over her clit to have her coming on my fingers again. “Holy fuck!” Marissa screams as she covers her face shaking her head back and forth. Easing out of her, I make my way up her body. Her skin is flushed from her orgasms, and it has a rosy glow. Reaching over to my side table, I feel around for a condom, but I come up empty handed. “Son of a bitch,” I grumble, as I rest my head on her shoulder and punch the mattress. Her arms wrap around me, “What’s wrong?” “I don’t have any condoms.” I don’t

know if she will hear me with my lips against her skin. “I might, oh wait, no. I don’t have my purse with me just my wallet.” “Shit.” Her warm lips never leave my shoulder as she peppers it with light kisses occasionally placing a nip. Her actions do nothing to help the aching situation in my cock, and with her fingers trailing along my back, I’m about to do something I haven’t done since Sawyer. “Are you on the pill?” Smiling on my shoulder, she shifts, pushing me onto my back, so she’s straddling me. Without saying a word,

she sinks onto me slowly. My hands grip her hips, and her head falls back as her body accepts mine. Her pussy is like velvet, and her walls soothe and massage me as she tightens her muscles. When she begins to move, I have to focus seriously on not losing it. Grabbing her breasts, she pinches her nipples and pulls them until they’re hard, making me want to feel them in my mouth. “Liam, you feel so fucking good.” Marissa’s taking control, and I let her do what she wants. Her movements are more than I can take, and I feel myself building, but I don’t want this to end. Gripping her hips, I flip her over,

making her squeal. Slipping from her body, I run my hands over her smooth legs. Her eyes smolder, and she spreads her legs inviting me in again. I lean over to flick my tongue over her clit a few times before coming back up to her. Sliding in again, her slick walls suck me in as deep as I can go. I hook her legs over my arms and grip her hips, so she’s in a better position. I slam back into her body, setting a rhythm that has her panting and begging to come. I fully intend to pull out and come on her stomach, but she grips me hard with her muscles, and I lose it before I can move. Grunting, I empty myself into her hot body. I drop her hips and fall over

her, taking her mouth in a scorching kiss. Marissa wraps her arms and legs around my body pulling me in tighter. She’s breathing hard, and her muscles twitch with her aftershocks which resonate through to my cock. Holding her to me, I roll to my side, so we’re facing each other. I place a kiss on her lips every so often, she smiles and sighs contentedly. “Are you okay?” She hums her approval, and we lie together in silence for a while until she shivers. Her goosebumps pull me out of my lust induced haze. “I’m an ass, hold on.” Jumping out of bed, I grab a towel to clean up with and walk back to her. She

grabs it from me and discreetly cleans herself. “That has to be the most unladylike thing ever.” She laughs as she discards the towel to the floor and slides back in next to me to cuddle. I’m thankful that she remains naked. I like the feeling of her skin against mine. “Since I’m naked, would you mind taking a picture real quick for my Instagram page?” I joke, earning me a slap on the chest as she joins my laughter. Reaching down, I grab the blanket and cover us. Tucking a stray piece of hair behind her ear, I slide my hand to tangle with her hair before pulling her in for a lazy kiss. Our

tongues dance slowly, but the emotion pouring out from this kiss is one that makes my heart swell. When we part, Marissa cuddles up to my chest draping her arm around my waist. We fit together like two pieces of a puzzle like we were meant to be together all along. It doesn’t take long for Marissa to fall asleep. I try to stay awake to watch her. The way her long eyelashes grace the tops of her cheeks, the soft puff of her snore and the way she’s already working her way into my heart has me questioning everything about my past. It’s a strange time to think about Sawyer when I have a beautiful woman

in my arms, but I’m suddenly aware that I’m finally over her. The way Marissa and I moved together was so freeing. It didn’t feel robotic or uncertain; it felt like we’d known each other forever and it was just another day that we couldn’t keep our hands off each other. I’m brought back to the present when Marissa turns in my arms but backs into me wiggling her ass directly over my cock. I will it to go down, still too exhausted from earlier, but apparently my dick doesn’t get the memo. Instead, I slide an arm around her waist taking in the soft feel of her skin. Pulling her even closer to me, I place a kiss on her shoulder before letting my head fall to

the pillow to let sleep overtake me. Before I know it, I’m in a deep contented slumber for the first time in over six months.

Rolling over, I reach out, and the empty mattress next to me is still warm. Cracking my eyes open, I see Marissa scurrying around the darkened room. She has some of her clothes bunched under her arm, and she is looking around the

floor for something. Propping my head up on my hand, I watch a little bit longer until she stubs her toe and does a little hop, skip and jump, trying to stay quiet. “Can I turn the light on for you?” She yelps, dropping everything in her arms and clutches her chest. “You scared me.” “I figured.” I can’t keep the humor out of my voice. Marissa’s standing in front of me in her panties and bra. Her chest is rising and falling quickly from the scare. “I’m sorry, I thought you were asleep.” Rolling to my back, I lace my hands behind my head. The sheet falls to my

waist, and Marissa’s gaze falls on my bare chest. Her tongue darts out to lip her lips, and I feel myself twitch. “Marissa, what’re you doing?” “Huh,” she looks up into my eyes. It’s still hard to see much because it’s dark out, but the light from the moon is filtering in through the window giving her an angelic glow. “Oh, I was trying to find my clothes.” “I can see that, but it’s two in the morning.” Reaching down she grabs the bundle of clothes again. “This shouldn’t have happened Liam. We’re coworkers. My boss is your best friend. God, you must think I’m some sort of slut.” One hand

clings to the clothing like it’s a lifesaver and the other is placed on her forehead. Sighing, she turns and mumbles, “It’s too complicated.” Bending to put her yoga pants on, I can’t help myself. I get out of bed and walk up behind her, grabbing her hips pulling her back into me. Her ass in her thong looks too delicious not to touch again. She stands up and rests her head on my chest. My fingers flex on her hips and her eyes close as she takes a deep stuttering breath. I can see her nipples tighten through her thin bra, and I know she’s as affected by me as I am by her. “Marissa, I don’t do one night stands or sleep with anyone this quickly.

You’ve bewitched me.” “Don’t say that Liam. This can’t work. It was a mistake.” Her voice tells one story while her body tells another. Chuckling, I nibble at the skin under her ear as I wrap my arms around her stomach, pulling her further back into me. She has to feel that I want her again. “How were you planning on getting home?” She leans her head to give me more room to continue my exploration. “I didn’t think that far ahead.” Hooking my fingers in the lace of her thong, I turn her around. She drops her clothes mid turn, and I lift her up when we are chest to chest. Her legs

automatically wrap around my waist, and her arms slide around my neck as her fingers run over the back of my head, feeling the spikes of my hair. Our chemistry is just as hot as it was earlier, and our lips find each other in no time. It’s a passionate but hungry kiss. Parting, I look deep into her eyes. “You don’t need to run from me.” Walking backward until we hit the bed, I lay her down and show her why she needs to stay. I make her scream my name twice before we both slip into sleep again. Next time I wake up, I’m once again alone, but the aroma of bacon and coffee, rouse me. Sliding my gym shorts

up over my hips, I saunter groggily into the kitchen. Stopping in the doorway, I take in the sight before me—one that I already know I want to see again. Marissa’s long dark hair is damp from a shower that she must have taken while I was asleep, and she is wearing one of the dress shirts from my dry cleaning pile. It hangs down to her knees which accentuate her bare legs. “I don’t think my shirt’s ever looked so good.” I cross my arms over my chest as I lean on the wall admiring the view. She turns with a cup of coffee to her lips and a smile to greet me. “Good morning.” Her voice just as sultry today as it was last night.

“It definitely is. I’m glad you stayed.” Setting her cup down, she walks over to me, and jabs me in the chest with her finger. “You were very good at convincing me.” Grabbing her hand, I pull it up to kiss the back but with a quick turn, I have her pulled to me. Wrapping my arms around her waist, I run my nose along her neck, brushing my lips on the sensitive skin before kissing the coffee taste on her lips. When we part, her face is flushed, but she smiles brightly. “Let’s eat. I made you breakfast. I hope you don’t mind I made myself at home.” “I’m glad you did, but I can think of

something else I’d like for breakfast.” I wiggle my eyebrows and grab her butt which elicits a laugh from her but a playful smack on the chest. She wiggles out of my arms, turns around and sits on one of the kitchen chairs. “Maybe later.” Taking a seat, I grab some bacon and make a cup of coffee. We once again fall into easy conversation. We learn so much about each other—her family and siblings, how her grandpa used to put cinnamon on her toast when she was little. I open up about how my mom passed away and that my dad disowned me when I was a teenager. We share some deep connections making me feel

as though I’ve known her for years. Time flies and before I know it, most of the day has passed and I'm taking her back to the mall to grab her car. Tomorrow is Monday, and we’ll be back at work. It’s a subject neither of us has brought up, and I’m not sure how to handle it. Our office doesn’t have an official fraternization policy among coworkers, but it’s an understanding that it shouldn’t happen. When we arrive, I walk her to her car, but before I open her door, I pin her to the side of it with my arms caging her in. Leaning forward, I place a light kiss on her lips. “I’ll see you tomorrow.” “What’s going to happen at work?”

She looks up at me hesitantly. “I’m not sure what you mean?” I know exactly what she means, but I want her to say it. I need to know that we are both wondering about what is going to happen between us. “We work together. We have to keep this a secret.” I'm a little shocked by what she says, never expecting that we would hide it. “Is that what you want?” “It doesn’t matter what I want.” She looks down, not able to look me in the eye. “Okay, Marissa, we can keep this between us.”

She looks relieved. Rising on her toes, she kisses my cheek before sliding down into her car leaving me standing in the parking lot watching her go. Climbing back into my car, my phone rings through my Bluetooth and the car announces its Zach. Groaning, I wish I had a minute to recap what just happened before I talk to him, but if I don’t answer, he’ll just keep calling. “Hello, Zach.” “He lives. I thought maybe she’d gutted you to sell your organs on the black market.” I can hear his laughter over the line. “Fuck you, dude.” I try to sound angry, but I know I'm failing.

“Well, I’ve called you a million times, and I lost count on the texts.” Turning to head home, “Yeah, I saw. I was busy.” “So what’s going on?” “We had a very nice evening . . .” I let my words drift off hoping he won’t press on. “Oh come on, you would have called me if you parted after dinner but you didn’t, so spill it.” So much for keeping it a secret. “We may have had an early morning, and after breakfast, and after lunch.” You can practically hear the face-splitting smile in my words.

“You dirty bastard,” he chuckles. “Of all people to land Marissa I never thought it’d be you, but I’m damn happy for the both of you.” Pulling into my driveway I put the car in park. “Um, thanks, I think?” “Give me more details,” he begs like a teenage girl. “That’s all you’re getting from me.” Oh and I’d appreciate it if you wouldn’t mention anything to Marissa about her and I. We decided to keep it to ourselves.” Not my choice to keep it a secret, but if that’s what she wants I’ll respect her wishes. “Yeah, you’re no fun, though.” “I know, but thanks, man.”

Hanging up, I jog inside. I smile when I walk in the door and realize it still smells like bacon. It’s the first time in a long time I’ve walked in and didn’t think about Sawyer. Now the only thing on my mind is a brown-haired beauty with two different colored eyes. My heart speeds up, and I smile when I see the empty striped bag on my bed with a note. I had a great time last night and this morning. Maybe I’ll be wearing one of these tomorrow at work. I text Marissa, my smile threatening never to leave my lips. “I had a great time, too. Thanks for making it impossible for me to

concentrate tomorrow.”

I spend the night tossing and turning. The only thing I can think about is Marissa and how I want her in bed with me. I can’t wait to see her again outside of work. I know it will be a real test of my will. The only thing I can imagine is walking up to her and kissing the hell out

of her, but we need to keep things quiet. The alarm wakes me, and I drag myself to the shower. After spending the night dreaming of the time spent with Marissa, I’m painfully hard, so I take myself in hand to relieve the pressure. It’s not long before I’m unloading on my shower wall with Marissa’s name on my lips. After dressing, I hurry out of the house, determined not to be late. After taking longer than usual in the shower, time had slipped away from me. I stop at the coffee shop, knowing that I can’t go the morning without a large mocha frappuccino. Grabbing my favorite flavored coffee, I also get Marissa’s.

Seeing a large chocolate kiss, I grab that too. When I arrive at the office, I’m only the second person there. Zach once again has beaten me. Setting the cup on Marissa’s desk with the kiss, I knock on Zach’s door and enter without waiting for an invitation. “Morning.” “Hey man,” Zach answers without looking up from his computer. “How’s Mia?” I ask, throwing a muffin at him. He catches it before it hits his chest. “She’s fine; I’m the one suffering.” Sitting down on his couch, I pull my muffin out and take a bite. “Cause you look deprived.”

“Dude, you have no idea. I’m so tired, Mia’s stomach is so big, I’m about to sleep on the couch because there isn’t much room in bed anymore and forget sex, I’m sporting a severe case of blue balls.” “More than I needed to know.” I hold up my hand laughing. “These twins are going to be the death of me, and they aren’t even here yet.” Zach groans as he pushes back on his chair and runs his hand over his face. “Enjoy the peace now man, especially since they’re both girls. You’ll be fighting off the boys when they get older and then you’ll never sleep.” “Yeah, don’t remind me. I’m already

having nightmares. Boys would be so much easier; you only have to worry about one dick with boys but with girls you have to worry about all of them.” He squeezes his eyes shut and groans. When his phone rings, I chuckle, “You better get that. I’ll catch you later.” I have been working on the same file for the past hour, and I’m shocked when I look up and see the time. Stretching my arms over my head, movement catches my eye, and I look out my office door and see Marissa walk in. She takes my breath away with the way she looks, and I don’t know how I didn’t notice it before. Her hair is pulled up in a sexy, messy style, and she doesn’t have her

glasses on so I know she’s covering her beautiful eyes again. When she gets to her desk, I see her smile as she picks up the cup I left there. Grabbing my phone, I shoot her a quick text. Sorry, it’ll be cold, but I was thinking of you this morning. I also want to kiss you so that one will have to do for now. Watching her read it, she bites her lip, trying to cover her smile. She looks towards my office before looking back down to her phone. Thank you. I know it only happened once, but I missed waking up in your arms this morning. My heart swells with her words. I

didn’t know how she would feel about what happened. I know that I loved it, but I thought maybe I would be the only one. I type out a quick reply. Same here. Lunch together? It only takes a few seconds for a reply to land on my phone. Sure. I smile, now looking forward to lunch more than I was before. I set my phone down and try to work, but I can’t help myself from trying to see her. I’ve walked to the bathroom more than necessary and taken things to Zach when I could have emailed him. Seeing the blush creep along Marissa’s face when I pass her, subtly brushing my fingers

across her arm or looking over her shoulder casually, getting just close enough that under normal circumstances would be too close, is almost too much to handle. We make plans for lunch over texting, so our emails don’t get tracked. Marissa said she would meet me at the Chipotle down the street. She didn’t want anyone seeing us leave together. When I see her walk in, I pull her down the hall toward the bathrooms and brace her against the wall pinning her with my hips. Our lips meet in a hungry kiss. Pulling away, she bites her lip, her voice just a sexy as I remember. “Hi.” “I’ve been dying to do that all day,” I

say as I tuck a piece of hair behind her ear, letting my finger trail down the side of her neck. She swallows hard and shifts her hips so she can feel my painfully hard cock. “Same here.” “Hungry?” I cock my eyebrow at her, and the double meaning isn’t lost. “Always,” she purrs with a sultry look in her eye. I contemplate dragging her into the bathroom for a quickie, but we are on lunch break, and I know a quickie with Marissa isn’t going to give me enough time. Grabbing her hand, I kiss the back of it and walk her toward the line to order.

The rest of our week follows the same pattern. Every morning I leave a chocolate kiss on her desk even if I don’t have coffee. I love to watch her when she reaches her desk, acting as though it’s a surprise before looking towards my office and giving me that shy smile I love. We haven’t been able to get together outside of work, and I’m dying for one-on-one contact. It feels like the longest week in existence, and I want nothing more than to touch her skin before sinking into her body. Late Friday afternoon, I’m up to my

eyeballs with contracts and files when I catch someone leaning against the cubicle next to Marissa’s. I’ve seen him before but don’t know his name. He looks like a cocky bastard, and since Zach isn’t in the office today, my interest is peaked even more as to why he’s talking to her for so long. Marissa laughs a little, but she gets quiet, looking down at her knees, so she doesn’t need to make eye contact with the guy. I can tell from my office that she isn’t comfortable with whatever he’s saying, and it’s starting to piss me off. I don’t like seeing this, and I'm just about to get up and go over when the bastard leans over and runs a finger along her

jaw. I’m out of my seat in a nanosecond, grabbing a miscellaneous file on my way out of the door. I make my way to her desk, trying to keep my temper under control. “Marissa, can you help me with this file?” The ass steps back a millimeter. Marissa smiles up at me, but she still looks embarrassed and very uneasy. “So, will you meet up with us tonight?” The dickweed asks, completely ignoring the fact that I’m standing here. She doesn’t skip a beat, grabbing the file from me. Opening it, she looks it over and scrunches her face. “Oh, this is

all messed up, Mr. Scott. Sorry, Drew looks like I’m going to be working late tonight.” A sly smile crosses my face. Stepping up behind her, I discreetly run my fingers along her back. She shivers and looks up at me. “Sorry, Drew.” My tone is dismissive, and a cocky smile graces my face. He looks as though he’s eaten a lemon when he catches my smile. Looking back at her, he tries to pull it together. “You know where we’ll be if you get out of here. You owe me that drink, Marissa.” When he walks away, she turns around in her chair and looks up at me.

Looking around, I make sure no one is visible before I lean forward and kiss her. Her face is flushed when I back away. “Thank you for saving me from Drew. I had drinks with him once, and now he thinks I’m into him.” I don’t like the idea of her with him, but I don’t let it show. “I liked when you called me Mr. Scott.” She blushes. “I still have a ton to do, but I’ve been ready to start the weekend since Monday. You ready to get out of here?” “You have no idea.” Turning around, she shuts her computer down while I close up my office.

Marissa flops back on my bed, her hair flying around her like a halo. “Damn, Liam. I think you’re trying to kill me.” “Are you trying to make me feel good by saying these things?” I laugh as I get off the bed and pull up my shorts, forgoing the underwear. I’ve found wearing them when I’m with Marissa just gets in the way. She reaches down for the sheet and pulls it up, covering her body. “No, why would you say that?”

Running my hand over my head, I mentally remind myself I need to touch up my buzz cut. “It’s nothing.” “Liam . . .” She shoves my pillow under her head, and she looks at me with concern. Rolling my head on my shoulders, I stretch my back. “If you don’t stop, I’m going to make you fuck me again.” Laughing, I head over to her, leaning over I take her mouth in a lazy kiss. “Cause that would be such a bad thing.” “Well, no, but I’m hungry and sore.” Her lip pouts out, and I suck it into my mouth. Groaning she wraps her arms around my neck and pulls me down because I’m off balance. Tucking herself

under my arm, she drapes her arm across my waist, and I trace lazy circles on her bare shoulder. Kissing the top of her head, I take in how easy this feels. “Why did you ask me if I was lying to you about how good you make me feel?” I tense at the thought. Not really wanting to bring up my past, but I know I have to. “Sawyer.” She bolts upright. “She told you that you were bad in bed?” Reaching forward, I pull her back to me. Her upset face makes me chuckle. “No, but toward the end of our relationship, it got to feeling robotic. There was no emotion or feeling to it. I just assumed it was my fault.”

Marissa kisses my chest. “There is no way it was your fault.” Shrugging, I don’t feel comfortable talking about this with her. “That’s not really all of it.” Reaching up and over me to the headboard behind me, her tit is in my face. I take the opportunity to bite her nipple eliciting a yelp from me as she sits back down. “Hey!” “You put your boob in my face. What’d you think would happen?” She slides my t-shirt over her head, and I’d be lying if I wasn’t upset that she was covering herself. Fidgeting with the cotton material, she looks over her shoulder out the

window in my room. “Am I a rebound?” Her voice is barely audible. I’m taken aback by her question. We’re sitting practically naked on my bed, our bodily fluids still present on parts of our bodies, and I feel more alive than I ever did with Sawyer. Turning her head so she is looking at me, I stroke her cheek with my thumb. “God no, Marissa. I don’t ever want you to think that.” “You still let her get in your head.” Marissa leans her head into my touch, and her long hair falls over her shoulder. Her movement fills my nose with her fresh scent, and I feel myself twitch. Even Sawyer couldn’t rouse me with her

scent. “It’s hard to be cheated on and assume it wasn’t something you did.” She leans up, tucking her legs under her. “So the rumors were true?” I can’t help but laugh at her face. Her mouth is open, and she has a smile on it like she’s going to eat up anything I tell her. Rubbing my hands over my face, I shake my head. “Oh God, you read them?” Scrunching her nose, “It’s kinda hard to miss if you follow authors of that genre. They’re like teenagers with spreading rumors and talking shit about each other.” “I didn’t know you were into reading

those books.” Biting her lip, she looks nervous. “Well, when Zach told me what your girlfriend did for a living, I looked her up and read one of her books. They were hot, but then I got hooked on the genre and read a ton of stuff so yeah, I’m a little into that scene.” Rolling my eyes, I let my head fall back to the headboard and stare at the ceiling. “Honestly, she did cheat on me, but I’m just as much at fault as she is.” Marissa rests her hand on my thigh, and I look back into her eyes. They’re pleading with me to tell her. “Do you really want to hear this?” Her shy smile graces her beautiful face. Scrubbing my

face, I lean forward and kiss her. “I want one last kiss in case you decide you don’t want anything to do with me afterward.” “Liam . . .” She twists the shirt in her hands again, and I can’t help but smile at the way she looks on my bed in my clothes. “Fine. Sawyer and I met by chance at a bookstore. I was there looking for the newest cheat code magazine for my game.” Marissa chuckles and nods. “Yes, I’m a geek.” “I didn’t say anything.” She holds up her hands while she laughs. “Anyways, we hit it off. Started dating. That was a little over a year ago.

She told me what she did for a living, and I thought it was cool. I mean, who knows a real published author, you know? Well, her lease was coming up for renewal, and I was in the process of buying this house. We were always together and I didn’t see why she needed to keep paying on a lease when she could be using the money for her books. She liked the house, and I saw it as a good starter home. A place to begin a family.” I look out toward the backyard at the swing set that still sits empty. “I got hired into the office after I finished my Masters and knew I wanted to take the next step with Sawyer.” Marissa shifts uncomfortably in front

of me, wrapping her arms around her stomach. I knew this wasn’t a good idea, but she insisted on hearing it. Holding out my arms to her, “Baby, please come here. I don’t feel those things anymore. I haven’t for a while, and now that I found you . . .” When she folds herself under my arm, I pull her close and kiss the top of her head. “Do you want me to continue?” “Yeah, I need to hear it.” Snuggling her to my side, she hooks her legs over mine like it’s the most natural thing in the world. “Zach helped me get extra hours the last eight months, which included more clients.” “Extra payout.” She chimes in and a

smile touches my face. I’ve never been with someone who gets the work I do and can practically read my mind. “Exactly. I wanted to save up to buy her a ring that I felt she deserved. We got comfortable together, living in the same space. I didn’t care for the spotlight she got when she was at events, and so I stayed out of the way and supported her from the sidelines. She asked me a few times to go with her to events and on trips, but I always declined. I was either working or just not comfortable being front and center. Eventually, she stopped asking, and it didn’t occur to me that this was a problem.” “If she wanted you there, she should

have asked,” Marissa mumbles. “I think she just got tired of me turning her down. Seeing her shrug and turn away from me didn’t affect me like it did when it first started happening. Anyways, Sawyer would get on weird working hours. She was like a vampire most nights. Sleeping all day and writing at night. I’m not sure why she did that. I could see if we had a family to take care of maybe she would have to work those hours, but anyway, we got on different sleeping patterns, so we hardly ever slept together or had sex for that matter. She never seemed to be in the mood or was busy. I’d get so frustrated because she’d be writing these steamy, erotic

books and I’d never get anything from it. Zach would tease me relentlessly about it. He said my cock must be broken if she doesn’t want to partake.” Sitting up a little she looks at me and slides her hand down to my crotch. “I can attest that you’re not broken.” My dick stirs under her touch, and I make it twitch. She licks her lips, and I can’t help myself. I pull her toward me to taste her lips. Helping her straddle my lap, I need to feel her close to me right now. She leans forward and lays her head on my chest. Instinctively, I wrap my arms around her. “Sawyer and I were never like this. She was never touchy-feely with me. We

had a communication problem. Looking back on it, I guess it was like that from day one, but that’s how we worked, so I never questioned it. We were comfy in the way we cohabitated. It was easy. I assumed that’s the way it should be, that’s why I wanted to continue with our relationship.” Marissa kisses my chest to let me know she’s still listening. “About seven months ago, I think . . . my days all run together”—she chuckles with me—“Sawyer came home from the gym, which I thought was strange because she never usually ventures out of the house, and said that she found a new cover model. I didn’t think anything

of it until Caleb was all she talked about. She was meeting with Caleb, they were doing a shoot together, and he was coming over for a live interview. We barely talked, but when we did it was all focused on him and what he was doing, or she’d be checking her phone and giggling like a schoolgirl. I tried to brush it off. Like I said, we were together. I never thought she’d stray from me.” I tighten my arms around Marissa, pulling the shirt up so I can feel her bare skin on my hands. I need the feel of her skin to get through the next few parts. “I knew something was wrong when she came back from an event that Caleb went to. She was distant and very jumpy,

and Caleb didn’t come around or text her. Sawyer seemed to want to start over with me. I was happy with that, but then after months of no intimate contact, we had sex and I felt like I was having sex with a stranger. She wasn’t there mentally or physically. I couldn’t take it,” I let out a laugh at the memory. “I actually faked coming so I could get out of there. I hate admitting that I was about to lose it so I got out of there as fast as I could. The worst part, I heard her sobbing after I left the room. That’s when I decided that I was going to do everything to make this work. I fucking fell to my knees and begged her for a second chance. She broke down with me

and after that night things did change. Sawyer seemed more into me again; we spent time together. I was preparing to propose. She even confided in me that she didn’t want to take Caleb to her signing, which shocked me. I knew this was the right time . . . I offered to go with her. I’d never done that before. She was thrilled and told every one of her author friends that I was finally going to pop my event cherry.” Marissa laughs, and I chuckle with her. “We know what happened after that . . .” Marissa sits up to look at me. “Why didn’t you go? You could have. The files that Zach was working on weren’t that important. I was helping him.”

Dropping my hands to her thighs, I run them over her skin until I’m gripping her hips. “You know, at the time, I knew it wasn’t right, letting her down again, but I never thought it would get to the point it did. Sawyer broke up with me over a text message that night in the conference room.” Marissa cringes at the thought. “Yeah, I wasn’t about to let her get away with that no matter what I did to deserve it. I left and went to KZoo to confront her, but boy was I the one surprised. I had the fucking ring in my pocket. I was going to beg her again, get on one knee in front of the crowd and profess my love, but that didn’t happen. When I arrived, I was pulled to the side

by one of her friends who was adamant that I let her be for the night, that she needed to cool down.” Shaking my head I look away from Marissa, “I haven’t told anyone this, I didn’t even throw it in Sawyer’s face . . .” Marissa turns my face by my chin to look at me, “You can tell me anything.” Her eyes glow in the light, and her voice is calming. “I saw her come out with Caleb from the after party. They were kissing and laughing. She looked so happy, something I don’t think she’d ever been with me. I’d never seen her look at me like she was at him.” “Liam,” she pouts out her lip, and I

want her to know that I’m not dwelling on it anymore. Placing my finger over her lips to silence her, I hold her up just enough to push my shorts lower, so my cock pops out. Slowly, I let her sink down on me. Marissa’s head falls back as she takes in the full feeling. I run my hands under the shirt to cup her breasts and tweak her nipples. Sliding my hands back down her toned stomach, I take in the shiver of her muscles under my touch. She contracts around me, and the feeling makes me groan. Her legs cover in goosebumps. “Marissa look at me.” When her eyes meet mine, they are dilated with lust.

Her need is an unspoken request, but this isn’t about sex. It’s about my feelings for her. “I get it now because I feel things with you that I never felt before. I look at you the way she was looking at him. You make me strive to be better, different. I will fight for it. You do this to me, Marissa.” She gasps and begins to rock slowly. “You do something to me too, I can’t explain it, but I know I want it.” Sitting up, I don’t separate us, but pull her closer to me. We continue to rock together, in a slow, lazy motion taking our time to kiss and taste each other’s skin. Eventually, we both find our shared release, and it brings stars

and a feeling of euphoria. I’d dare to say I’m falling madly in love with Marissa, and if I was a betting man, she feels the same for me.

The following week flies by, and I’m thankful to get to spend time with Marissa again. I’m finding it hard to keep our relationship a secret because she has very quickly become extremely special to me. After work on Friday, we head out to

a small bar a few blocks away from the office in hopes to avoid the work gang that gathers at one of the closer bars. We settle into a deep conversation with hands held on top of our table and drinks in the opposite hands. Marissa has let her hair down and has unbuttoned the top part of her blouse. She looks sexy as hell with the waves falling around her face and the slight blush that the alcohol has given her cheeks. I can’t take my eyes off her, as usual. “What is the black haze on your khakis?” she asks before taking a drink of her pink Cosmo. “You better swallow before I tell you because you’ll choke if you are

drinking,” I state. Doing as I suggest, she puts the drink down and looks at me with that smile that makes me want to leave right now and never let her out of my bedroom. “You know Jude?” “The intern?” she chuckles. “He’s something else.” I purse my lips. “I had the pleasure of walking into the copy room right when he dropped the entire container of toner.” Marissa covers her mouth and tries not to laugh, but she can’t contain herself. Her head tilts back, and shoulders shake before she lets out a laugh. “Very funny, my pants and shoes are

ruined.” I chide back. “I didn’t realize you were part of the debacle. I saw him come out of the room. He looked like a raccoon.” She continues to laugh, picking up her drink bringing it to her pert lips. It’s the smallest move of her bare neck when she takes a sip that makes me lean over and place a kiss on her soft skin. Leaning back, it’s then that I see Drew perched on the bar stool opposite us watching our every move. Marissa doesn’t notice my mood change and scoots closer to me taking my lips in a light kiss. She must be confused with my change in demeanor because she tilts her head in

confusion, “What’s the matter?” Drew’s smug-ass smile that’s etched across his face as he’s walking toward us makes me grit my teeth. “Drew’s here,” I mumble under my breath. Her eyes pop open, and she is about to look over her shoulder when Drew saddles up to the table putting puts his arm around her shoulder, forcing our hands to part and her to turn away from me. “So Marissa, you’re sleeping with co-workers now. When can I get in line?” Before I know what’s happening, I’m out of my seat and punching Drew across the face. The commotion makes Marissa back away, and I’m not sure who pulls

me off Drew, but they fling me toward the exit. Outside of the bar, I’m looking around for Marissa but can’t find her among the people meandering along the sidewalk on the busy downtown street. I try to get back in, but they won’t let me. It feels like hours pass but, in reality, it’s only a few minutes before I see her coming out carrying my suit coat and her purse. She has tears running down her face. “Are you okay?” I frame her face with my hands, looking her over to make sure she didn’t get in the crossfire of my temper with Drew. She sniffles but nods, “I’m fine Liam,

Drew’s an asshole. I ripped him a new one after they took you away. They told me I needed to leave too and then I gave them a piece of my mind because he’s the one that started it not us.” I love her attitude and even through her tears, she’s adorable. “Everything’s going to be okay.” “I know.” Her voice is shaky. “Let’s get out of here.” I tuck her under my arm and we walk down the sidewalk together admiring the lights over the river.

I was able to talk Marissa into staying the weekend with me. It was wonderful to wake up with her wrapped in my arms. We hung out together, cuddled on the couch while I played video games, and had picnics in front of my fireplace in the living room. Monday morning, we walk into work for the first time together. Since Drew saw us on Friday, we figured that others would know by now that we were a couple. Stopping at her desk, she looks up at me and gives me a big smile. Leaning over, I kiss her cheek.

“Everything’s going to be okay.” “I know,” she winks as she takes her seat. Reaching into my laptop case, I pull out a Hershey kiss and hold it out to her. Laughing, she takes it and kisses it. Giving her a wink, I turn and walk to my office. Getting lost in work, I nearly jump out of my skin when my phone rings. Mr. Banks, the president of the company, had his assistant request that I come up to his office immediately. My stomach drops. Drew must have gone to HR about the fight. Even though it wasn’t on office time or property, I could still be in trouble over it.

Taking a deep breath, I grab my blazer and head out my door to the elevator. Marissa glances up when I pass by her desk. Her confused look is adorable. Mouthing to her that I’ll see her in a bit, I step into the elevator and sag against the back wall after the doors shut, running my hand over my face and willing my heart to slow down. Patty, Mr. Banks’ assistant, isn’t in her office, so I walk up to his closed door and knock. I’m welcomed in and am surprised to see Zach sitting in the office as well. “Mr. Banks, Zach, good morning.” Sitting down next to Zach, I take a deep breath trying to calm myself. I feel like

I’m sitting in front of the principal right now. “Liam, I wanted to tell you how happy we’ve been with your progress in the company,” Mr. Banks begins. His voice is deep and boisterous. “Thank you, sir.” I flatten my sweaty palms on my thighs. He continues, barely letting me finish my sentence. “Zach has told me about some of the projects you’ve helped him with. How you’ve made our clients and the company extremely wealthy.” Looking over to Zach, who’s not giving anything away as to why I’m up here right now, I look back to Mr. Banks. “It was my pleasure to help out. I enjoy

what I do here.” Mr. Banks sits forward. “That’s great to hear. It’s one of the reasons Zach suggested you to take his place since he’s been offered a position further up in the company.” My mouth hangs open. I can’t be hearing this correctly. Looking at them, I’m speechless. Zach smacks me on the back. “Congratulations man, this is everything you’ve been working for.” “Wow, I mean, thank you. Yes, I will definitely take the position.” I know I should be going over the specifics, but I’m too much in shock to register the fine details at the moment. Mr. Banks claps and laughs.

“Fantastic. I like your ‘go get em’ attitude Liam. You’re going to go far in the company, I can tell. Now if you’ll excuse us, Zach and I are having a meeting with Marissa now to let her know about the change. I’ll have HR send you all the details for the position as well as the salary increase.” Standing up, I shake Mr. Banks’ hand and then Zach walks with me to the door. I quietly ask him, “What’s going on?” “We’ll talk in a bit,” Zach whispers as he opens the door to let me out. Marissa’s sitting on the chair outside the office waiting her turn. When she looks up at me, all the color drains from her face. Zach holds the door open for

her, but I walk up to her and help her up, “Not what you think . . .” I whisper. She looks at me with wide eyes and straightens her suit skirt as she walks into the office with a small glance over her shoulder to me before the door shuts behind her. I should go back down and back to work, but I stand with my hands in my pockets staring at the door, wondering what is going on. Their meeting isn’t long when the door opens, and I look up as Zach and Marissa walk out. It’s quiet between us, no one seeming to know what to say. Stepping into the elevator, I punch the button for our floor and look back to them.

When we’re in the elevator, Zach’s the first one to speak, “We should go to lunch to discuss this change.” “I’ll grab my purse and meet you guys downstairs.” Marissa brushes my hand as she walks out the elevator past me. Turning back to Zach, I chuckle nervously, “We’re fucked aren’t we.” He pats me on the shoulder, “Let’s not jump to conclusions.” We meet downstairs and make our way to the pub down the street. It’s only eleven, so we’re able to beat the lunch crowd and get a table immediately. Thankfully they place us in a corner booth out of the hustle and bustle.

Helping Marissa with her coat, I guide her into the booth first and take my spot next to her. Zach sits across from us and motions to the waitress that we are ready for drinks. “I’ll just take water,” Marissa smiles shyly at the waitress. Zach orders a beer and I follow suit. “Guessing since it’s just eleven now and you’re ordering alcohol that I’d need to as well.” I joke. Taking his phone out of his pocket he sets it next to him then folds his hands in front of him, looking between Marissa and I. Marissa shifts under his gaze and I feel the same scrutiny. Having enough of his critical eye

“Spit it out Zach, no pussy-footing around.” Setting my hand on Marissa’s thigh, I calm her bouncing leg. I stroke her bare skin with my thumb and love the way her skin pebbles under my touch. She looks at me and gives me a warm smile. Zach’s sly smirk graces his face. “Liam, you’re now Marissa’s boss.” My hand stills and I nearly choke on the beer that was just moments ago was flowing freely down my throat. Coughing, I try to speak the words that are flowing through my head, but nothing comes out. “Excuse me?” Marissa questions. “I thought I was coming with you to your

new job. Why didn’t Mr. Banks tell me this when I was in the meeting a few minutes ago?” Zach scrubs his face, and I can see he’s just as upset as we are. “Marissa, I tried, trust me. You’re the best damn assistant I’ve ever had. I hate that I’m going to have to move along without you because that means I have to train some nitwit to deal with my shit.” Marissa giggles, but I can see the disappointment on her face. “I can’t take this position then,” I say to Zach matter-of-factly. Zach and Marissa both look at me like I have two heads. “Liam . . .” Zach’s voice is stern. I

know what he wants to say, but he’s too much of a gentleman to say it in front of Marissa. She places her hand on my shoulder. “Liam, he’s right. You can’t pass this up. This is what you’ve been killing yourself for. Don’t forfeit your dreams because of me. I’ll put in for a transfer or something. I’m just an assistant. There are plenty of opportunities for me.” Zach smirks, “You could keep going as if you didn’t have a relationship. I’m not going to tell anyone.” He takes a chug of his beer like he didn’t just say the most stupid thing in the world. “Yeah, Liam, I can do that.” Marissa chimes in and, this time, I’m looking at

her like she’s got two heads. “What do you think?” I’m not sure what surprises me more, that Zach suggested it or that Marissa’s okay with being my dirty secret. “What is the actual policy anyways?” I ask. “I know we were okay dating because of the positions we held, but what about now?” We all lean back for the waitress when our food comes, but then Zach continues. “You’re right, you were fine because neither of you reported to each other, but now . . . fraternization is prohibited because it can be used as inappropriate use of position power.” “So what are the consequences of not

following the policy?” Marissa questions. Her voice is low, and I can tell she’s worried. “Disciplinary action all the way to termination. It’s really up to HR to decide,” Zach speaks frankly. We sit in silence while we start our lunches. No one seems very hungry. Marissa pushes her food around her plate. “Then we just need to be super discreet,” she states as if she’s making the final decision. Taking a bite of my burger. “I think you’re forgetting something. Drew saw us together, babe.” Her head falls back, and she squeezes her eyes shut. “Shit, I forgot.”

“Drew from accounting?” Zach inquires. Nodding, I take another bite finally starting to get my appetite back. “I’ll take care of him, no worries,” Zach states. “He’s on Mr. Banks’ shit list anyway. Not that I’m saying you guys can broadcast your relationship to the office, but I can keep Drew quiet.” Leaning over to Marissa, I whisper in her ear, “If I do this, I do expect to fuck you over my desk.” I can hear her breathing pick up, and a slight whimper escaped her. “I have no idea what you just said to her, and I don’t want to know, but you guys are going to suck at keeping this

secret.” Looking over at him without moving my head, I smile coyly before leaning back down to suck on the base of her neck. A piece of bread hits me in the head. I pull away from Marissa to chuck the baked dough back at him. Marissa shifts in her seat and blushes, looking away from Zach. Giving her my devious smile, “This is going to be a test of wills, but let’s give it a shot.” Zach shakes his head, laughing. He raises his bottle in a toast. “To new beginnings and new relationships. Just remember if shit does go down, I didn’t know anything.”

“Understood,” I answer. We all clink glasses and continue to eat our lunch. Marissa sinks into my side relieved that at least Zach’s on our side. When we come back from lunch, the rumor mill is flying about Drew’s black eye and the shake-up going on upstairs in the partners’ offices. Marissa and I chuckle over a few of the crazier ones, but we keep the truth to ourselves. Tuesday rolls around, and the office is a flurry of action again over the shakeup among the big bosses. One of the partners left under some hostile terms, and that has everyone whispering. However, it explains the position that Zach has acquired as well as my

promotion. I’m extremely busy catching up on my work and looking over the new files I’ve been passed, but I can’t help glancing at Marissa sitting outside my office now. I have a perfect view of her the entire day leaving me with a hard-on that won’t go away. When five o’clock rolls around and the office begins to empty, Marissa pulls her hair out of the tie that’s been holding it up. I swear it’s slow motion the way it falls on her shoulders and how it floats around when she shakes her head. Her legs stretch out, and I see her calf muscles twitch in her sky-high heels. “Marissa, can you come here

please?” She looks over her shoulder, and the smirk she gives me makes me reach down to adjust myself. “Sure thing Mr. Scott.” She grabs her tablet and saunters into the room. When she’s inside the door, she stops. Her bottom lip gets sucked into her mouth, and I can’t take it anymore. “Shut the door, Marissa.” A devious smile graces her face. “Am I in trouble, Mr. Scott?” “Lock it.” Marissa’s hand turns the button without taking her eyes off mine. Getting up, I’m standing in front of her in

seconds. “I’d like to christen my office.” Her tongue darts out to lick her bottom lip. “But there are still people in the office.” “I guess you’re going to have to be quiet then, huh?” Taking the tablet from her, I set it on the couch next to the door. “We need to discuss my expectations for you as my assistant.” She tries to control her breathing as she steps closer to me. In her heels, she still has to look up to me, but I can see how excited she is. Her voice is breathy and sexy as fuck. “Is that so?” Grabbing her around the waist, I pull her closer and let my hand tangle in the

hair at the base of her neck. Tugging it slightly, she gasps with the twinge of pain. “Your smart mouth does things to me.” Kissing her hard until we’re both breathless, I turn us around and walk her back until she bumps into my desk. She lets out a little yelp at the surprise while she braces herself on my desktop. I smile against her lips and bunch her skirt up her legs. Stepping back, I look at the sight in front of me. The garter belt and stockings catch my attention. Nothing is sexier than a woman in sexy lingerie. The black and yellow straps frame the yellow lace thong that is on display for me.

Stepping up to her, I run my fingers along the bare skin between the top of her stocking and the fabric of her panties. “Those look familiar.” Her devilish smile makes me know she planned this. “You naughty, naughty girl. Turn around and lean over my desk.” She does as I ask and wiggles her ass at me while looking over her shoulder at me. Stepping up behind her, I run my hands over her smooth skin; she shivers under my touch. With a quick motion, I spank her. Marissa closes her eyes and moans. “I guess I need to teach you a lesson.” I undo my belt and push my zipper down to let my cock out. It is

pulsing, begging to slide into Marissa’s hot core. Moving her thong to the side, I thrust in with one quick motion, grabbing on to her hips to pull her to me. Once I’m fully seated in her, I pause and take in the warmth of her surrounding me. Her muscles ripple, begging me to move. I give few quick pumps before I grab her hair and twist, pulling her to arch her back. The pain initiates pleasure and her pussy clamps down on my cock along with a moan that nearly throws me over the edge. She looks so fucking beautiful like this. Spanking her again for being loud, I pound into her a few more times before we both find our release. I let her hair go and fall over her back, kissing

along her neck. “My God, Liam, that was . . .” She pauses trying to catch her breath. “Yeah.” I close my eyes until the stars I’m seeing cease. Pulling out, I grab a few tissues from my pocket and help her clean up, so there isn’t too much of a mess. After she straightens herself up and I redo my pants, Marissa steps up to me sliding her arms around my waist, laying her head on my chest. I kiss the top of her head, and we stand in each other’s embrace for a few minutes. Hearing some conversation outside the office door, she looks up at me and giggles. “Do you think anyone heard

us?” “Doubtful,” I laugh. “I can’t believe we did that,” she blushes and looks away. “One thing off my bucket list.” Leaning over I take her lips in a deep kiss. “Never considered it until you, but I’m glad I’m the one that gets to scratch that off your list. Have dinner with me?” She smiles but sighs, “Yeah, but then I have to go home and pack. You saw I was going on vacation for a week right?” Tightening my embrace, I did see her time off request that was approved back when she was Zach’s assistant, but I was hoping it had changed. “I did.”

Marissa steps back. “Liam, I’m in my sorority sister’s wedding. If I could get out of it, I would. I’m going to miss you so much.” Cupping her face, I kiss her nose. “Baby, I know. I’m just going to miss you.” “You have no idea, everyone is going to have someone with them, and I’ll be all alone. I wish you could go with me.” Her pouting is adorable. I wish I were going with her too, but I can’t take off the entire week. That would raise red flags about our relationship. “Let’s pack up and get that dinner; then I’m going to take you home and remind you again why you’ll miss me so

much.”

Monday, I go through the motions getting ready for work, stop to get coffee, and grab a kiss from the counter as I pay without thinking. It’s become second nature for me to include Marissa in my daily routine. Only this time, when

I walk by her empty desk, I remember that she’s gone for the week. It felt wrong leaving her desk empty, so I set the kiss down by the phone so she will have it when she gets back. Sitting down at my desk, I open my computer and start going through my emails. It’s not until the office is buzzing that I feel bummed. Scrolling to her name, I smile as I type her a message and picture her the last time I saw her in my bed. Hey, I miss you. Hope your travels are smooth. She responds instantly. So far, so good. I miss you too, but I feel like I’m getting sick. I hope you don’t get sick too.

I’m concerned about her, traveling alone and not feeling well. It’s an eighthour drive, and if she’s sick, that would be miserable. Picking up my phone, I dial her. The minute she picks up, I’m surprised by how she sounds. I can barely understand her. Marissa’s voice is hoarse and deep, nothing like the sexy version I heard screaming my name yesterday. “I’m worried about you. That came on suddenly.” She groans, “Tell me about it. This isn’t the time for me to be sick either,” she adds after a few more coughs and another groan I cringe with the deep bark of her cough. “Honey, you might want to see a

doctor when you get in. It sounds like bronchitis or something.” “We’ll see. I know the weekend is jam-packed,” she whispers, trying not to set off another coughing spell. “Right, but if you have a fever or worse, you’ll miss all of it instead of just a few hours at the clinic,” I coax, trying to convince her to get checked out. Another coughing jag comes through the speaker. “Ugh, I know you’re right, but this just sucks.” “I know it does.” My heart aches for her. I know she’s been looking forward to this weekend. “Call me in a few hours or if you get tired. I don’t want you falling asleep.”

“Okay. Don’t forget about your meeting and the files on my desk that need to get downstairs.” I look over to her desk and see the folders that she is talking about. Smiling, I leave the office to grab them while I’m on the phone, so I don’t forget. “I have them in my hand right now. I’ll take them down as soon as I’m off the phone. I’ve got this. I didn’t have an assistant before this, you know.” I can hear her smiling over the phone. “Yeah, but now you do, so I want to make sure you’re fully taken care of.” Groaning, I roll my head on my shoulders. Huskily I speak into the phone, “You take care of all my needs

trust me.” She laughs. “I’m going to miss you even though I’m sick and shouldn’t be near you anyways.” “I’d take one for the team.” “Good to know. Now get going. You’ve got work to do.” She chuckles. “Yes, boss,” I respond as she hangs up. Snapping a picture of the files I’m holding, I send her a text to let her know I’m doing what she told me. Her response was a heart which made me smile. The day goes by slowly without my normal banter with Marissa. I’m not sure

how I worked in isolation for so long. Kicking my feet up on my desk, I lean back and prop my hands behind my head. Closing my eyes, I picture a dark-haired, two-tone-eyed beauty. I’m enjoying my break for a millisecond before Zach bounds into my office, pounding on the door, scaring the shit out of me, nearly making me fall off my chair, “You’re promoted only a few days ago, and I find you sleeping on the job?” “Fuck you. No, I’m not sleeping.” I chuckle. “Daydreaming.” Zach rolls his eyes and shuts the door. “Daydreaming? You sound like a damn pussy.” I throw my pen at him while I laugh.

“What do you want?” “Wanted to make you an offer you can’t refuse.” He sits down on my couch and props his feet up on my desk which I push off. “Only, I can put my feet up on my desk.” I flip him the bird. He holds his hands up in defeat. “It used to be my desk.” “But it’s not anymore, Dipshit. What did you ruin my dream for?” I cock my eyebrow at him and check my phone to see if I’ve had any messages from Marissa that I’ve missed. “You, me, Ralph, and Ed, super gaming weekend, forty-eight-hour stretch, pee in a bottle gaming battle. Lia

has to go to her mother’s for Christmas shopping or some shit, so I have the house to myself. What do you say? The others are already in.” Zach’s voice raises an octave with excitement. Normally, I’d jump at the option. I haven’t binge-played in a while, and I do miss the battles we used to have, but this weekend I made up my mind that I’m surprising Marissa in Philly. Granted she doesn’t know about it, so if I didn’t make it, I wouldn’t be in the doghouse, but I want to turn a corner with her and not make the same mistakes I made with Sawyer. “This weekend?” “Yes, pussy, this weekend. You have to be in. Come on,” Zach whines.

“Can’t,” I state matter-of-factly. He drops his leg that was casually crossed over his knee making a loud thud as he leans forward in shock. “What? You can’t be serious.” “As a heart attack. I’m surprising Marissa in Philly this weekend at that wedding she’s in.” “Damn, you’re pussy-whipped already. You just jumped right into this relationship with two feet and haven't looked back have you?” “Can’t say that I have, but I will tell you, I love every minute of it.” My smile is so big it’s hurting my face. My text message alert goes off, and I see that it’s from Marissa. Grabbing the

phone, I send her a text, ignoring Zach. When I set the phone down, he just shakes his head. Getting up, he pats me on the shoulder. “Just remember to keep it on the DL.” Zach points to the ceiling indicating the upper floor where he is now located. “Old man Withers was let go because of some fraternization with some secretary. That’s why you and I are in the positions we are in. Don’t make us both lose our jobs.” My mouth hangs open. “Is that what happened? Who’s the secretary?” “You didn’t hear any of this from me, but I think it was Reese’s secretary, but I also heard Reese was pissed because

she screws him too so it was a real war between them. The word is that Withers ‘retired,’ but I think it was a forced retirement.” I make a gagging noise. Withers is so old and gross. He always smelled like mothballs and garlic. “Why would she fuck him?” He gives me a head tilt with a raised eyebrow. “Why would any floozy sleep with a nasty old man?” “Money, gotcha,” I answer my question. “Yeah. Reese was furious. I’m surprised she’s still working here.” “Well, it’s probably because she spends a lot of time under his desk.” I

make a dick sucking motion. Zach covers his stomach. “Dude, that’s just nasty. Now that’s all I’m going to think about when I’m in there, and she isn’t at her desk.” Walking to the door, I stop him just before he leaves. “Zach, I’m ducking out of here Friday at ten so I can make it to Philly by evening. Just giving you a heads up.” “Oh, I see how it is . . . ‘Outside sales calls’?” “You know it!” My smile’s plastered on my face. It’s the traditional salesman, cold call excuse to get out early on Friday. “Whatever. If you change your mind

about this weekend, you know where to find us,” Zach says without looking back as he shuts the door behind him. I kick up my feet and close my eyes to let my daydreaming resume where it left off when I was so rudely interrupted.

The day ends with a late season thunderstorm that sends people running out of the building to their cars in the work parking lot. The air is chilled, and the potential for ice to form overnight with this rain is significant. I

contemplate taking off for Philly now, but knowing I didn’t finish everything I need to in the office, I head home. Starting a fire and popping some leftovers in the microwave, I walk down the hall to change. Between a few cracks of lightening, I swear I hear knocking. Chalking it up to hearing things, I go about my business pulling out a bag and grabbing a few changes of clothes. Hearing the sound again, I throw on a shirt and walk barefoot down the hall. I almost turn around, but the knock comes again, stepping up to the door, I look through my peephole. My body freezes at the sight of the waterlogged woman standing on my

doorstep. Her eyes are bloodshot, and makeup is running down her face. My hand hovers over the doorknob, and I shiver. I contemplate turning around and not answering the door. My arms feel numb, and my mind spins with so many scenarios. It takes me a minute to shake myself back to reality and open the door like a gentleman instead of leaving her out in the pouring rain. I can’t even imagine what my face must look like. I try to keep it neutral, but I’m sure I’m failing miserably. I haven’t spoken to her since she moved out. “I had no place else to go,” Sawyer cries when the door is fully opened to

her. Giving her a slight nod, I step to the side to let her pass. She is sopping. It seems she was standing in the rain a lot longer than just the time she was on my doorstep. Watching her walk into the living room brings back so many memories. Some good, some not, but overall, I’m reminded of why I fell for her at the beginning of our relationship. My heart is beating faster than it should for having her in my home. I still haven’t said anything to her; I’m not sure what I should say. Sawyer is standing in my foyer, looking at the floor. It isn’t until she shivers and looks up into my eyes that I

snap out of my daze. Looking over her wet frame, I motion for her to sit and take off down the hall without a word. Upon returning, she is sitting tentatively on the edge of the couch, wringing her hands in front of her. Looking up at me when I make my way back into the living room, I hand her the towel, “Why are you here Sawyer?” I ask while sitting across from her. Her fucking eyes tear up again, pulling at my heartstrings, “I think Caleb’s cheating on me.” I gasp and lean over to scrub my face with my hands. When I look up at her, I can tell she’s trying to hold it together;

she’s biting her lip and gripping her hands so tight in her lap that her knuckles are turning blue. My mind is void of emotions because I’m honestly not sure how I should react. “Sawyer . . .” My tone is regretful. “I know, you’re probably laughing at me. You were right. What goes around comes around,” she says as she hunches over and sobs. Getting up, I can’t take her crying like this. I do what comes naturally to me. Even though we aren’t together, and she ripped my heart out, I still feel a sort of love for her. I sit next to her and pull her into my side. “I’d never throw that in your face.”

Sawyer turns and snuggles into my chest. Her deep, stuttering breath causes my heart to clench. She speaks so quietly I almost can’t hear her. “I’m so sorry for what I did to you.” I can’t answer her. I don’t want her to think what she did to me was okay. I don’t want her to think I’m over it, because I’m not. I doubt I will ever forgive her, but I don’t want her to feel like she’s alone right now either. I stroke her back and let her cry. I’m not sure how long I hold her. The rain on the window sets a calming tone along with the flicker of the fire. Sawyer eventually pulls away from me and looks up to my

face. She seems to be searching for something. My throat tightens when she begins to lean forward. I should move. I need to move, but my body’s frozen in place. Before I realize what is happening, her lips take mine, tentatively at first, but my body defies me, and I sigh. Just as my tongue tangles with hers, my two-tone-eyed beauty flashes through my mind. I get up quickly, trying not to stumble to get away from Sawyer. “We can’t do this. It isn’t right.” Turning around to leave the room, I do everything in my power not to sprint to the kitchen. Catching myself on the counter, I brace myself as gather my thoughts. That wasn’t right. Nothing

about it felt good or normal. In fact, I feel horrible and sick to my stomach. Taking my phone out, I stare at the picture on my lock screen of Marissa, and I tangled on my bed after making love. Her skin is aglow, and the look of love flows from the picture straight to my heart. I’m the biggest douche for kissing my ex. Unlocking the phone, I type a quick text to Marissa to let her know I’m thinking about her, and I ask her how she is doing. Then I do something I never thought I’d do. My phone thumbs through my contacts and I hover over a name I wanted to erase so many times but never got around to it.

Hitting send, I put the phone up to my ear and move around the room to make a couple of cups of coffee. “Hello?” The voice is unsure as I’m sure he doesn’t have my number, and I’m honestly surprised he answered. “Hey, it’s Liam.” My voice is dead calm. “Please tell me she’s with you?” Caleb pleads, and I sort of feel for the guy. “She is.” My voice is clipped, and I perch myself on the counter. He can hear the distaste in my voice. “I didn’t do those things, Liam. You have to believe me. I’d never cheat on her. I love her, man, with all my heart.”

Taking a deep breath, I know he does. I’ve seen the way he looks at her. “I know.” Sighing into the phone, I run my hand through my short hair. “That’s why I’m calling to tell you that she’s here. I’d never do that if I thought you were guilty.” “Thanks, man. I’ll be right over.” Caleb hangs up immediately, and I take a deep breath. Looking up at the ceiling, I turn and brace myself on the counter to think about how fucked up this situation is right now. Taking a deep breath before heading back to Sawyer, I look to make sure Marissa hadn’t texted. Seeing none, I grab the hot mugs and walk back to the

living room. Handing her the cup, I ask her what exactly happened. After listening to her ramble, I know she’s just paranoid. “It’s his job. All you are hearing is nasty rumors. Facebook’s the devil. People share stuff and things get twisted to what want you to hear.” She looks up at me and her puppy dog eyes get to me. I speak a little quieter, “Trust me. Caleb wouldn’t cheat on you. I’ve seen the way he looks at you. I’ve been there. He loves you.” Sawyer hunches over and sobs. I’m not sure what else to say to her. There’s only one person who can make things better for her. My prayers are answered when there’s a knock on my door. I get

up and place a hand on her shoulder. “It’s going to be okay.” Opening the door, Caleb stands there just as rain soaked as Sawyer was not long ago. “Is she still here?” Nodding, I let him by. When they embrace and begin making out, my stomach constricts. I can’t watch this; it still feels like a punch to the stomach even if I’m over her. It’s something that will always haunt me. Sneaking by them, I walk into the kitchen and my phone rings. Marissa’s face lights up the screen, and I feel my heart skip a beat. “You have no idea how much I need to hear your voice right now.” Her laughing

turns to coughing and I feel horrible for making her speak. “I’m sorry sweetie.” “It’s okay. I’m here and just leaving urgent care to head to the pharmacy. Then I’m going to crash at the hotel and with the way I’m feeling right now, I hope never to wake up.” It sounds as if she’s walking because I can hear traffic on the other end in the background. “Don’t say those things. What would I do without you?” I gaze out into the backyard. “File your own papers?” She laughs again before the coughing takes over. “You’re a funny one,” I laugh. “I try.” Her coughing continues, and I cringe.

“Ouch, that sounds like it hurts. What’s the diagnosis?” I hear the car door beep as she gets in and shuts it behind her. “Bronchitis with a sinus infection. I have a Z-Pak and some other shit to get filled. He said I might be well enough for the weekend to participate in the wedding.” “I’m coming to take care of you.” The words are out of my mouth before I can stop them, not that I’d really want to anyway. Marissa gasps, “Liam, no.” “Yes. You can’t stop me. Text me where you’re staying and leave me a key at the front desk since you’ll be asleep by the time I get there.”

As she continues to ramble about me driving all that way, I hear my name from the living room. Sawyer and Caleb have their coats on and appear to be leaving. Stepping into the doorway, I cover the phone, but when my phone rings again, I realize I accidently hung up on Marissa. “I have to take this, I’m sorry.” I return their wave and the head back into the rain. Before I can say something, Marissa begins to talk. “Is that Sawyer? Why is she there? Oh God, she wants you back doesn’t she? You’re going back to her?” “Woman, would you stop.” I chuckle at her worry. “Yes, it is her, but it’s not

what you think. You’re my one and only. Only you, got that? Don’t let yourself think anything different. Now text me your address. I’m coming to make you feel better.” Hearing her take a deep breath in, it’s wheezy. “Liam . . .” I wish I weren't eight hours away from her. I know my girl needs me now. Grabbing my bag, I shut everything off and run out to my car and head toward Philly. I don’t care that I’m supposed to be in the office in the morning. When my girl is hurting, nothing can stop me from making her feel better.

I make the trip to Philly in seven hours. If a cop had pulled me over, I would’ve been screwed. Thankfully, I managed without a ticket because nothing was keeping me from Marissa’s side. She kept me awake texting, but around eleven she stopped, and I

assumed she fell asleep. I hope she did because she needs her rest to get better. Pulling into the hotel at two in the morning, I get out and stretch. A valet groggily walks out to meet me trying to mask his yawn. I let him take my car, so I don’t have to worry about it at this hour. Grabbing my bag, I take off to toward the front desk. Thankfully, I thought far enough ahead to have Marissa leave a key for me, so I didn’t have to wake her when I got in. Moving through the lobby, I feel as though I’m the only one up. I’m not sure how the staff stays awake on these overnight shifts. It’s so quiet, except for the lone maintenance man buffing the

floor, which it makes me uneasy. The elevator dings, echoing through the night, and the doors slide open. I walk down the hall to Marissa’s room. Waving the key in front of the door, it unlocks, and I try to quietly open the heavy door to sneak in. The television illuminates the room, but the sound is off. The large king size bed is highlighted in the vast room and, with the covers pulled up tight under her chin, I see Marissa. Her sleep is restless, and her coughing is deep and sounds painful. When the door clicks shut, she shifts and rolls away from me. Depositing my bag on the floor, I use the restroom, then strip down and slide

in behind Marissa, pulling her to me. I kiss her bare shoulder. The skin is as soft as velvet. She mumbles something along with more coughing before she settles down into my embrace. My touch seems to loosen her tense muscles because I feel her sink into me, and a peaceful rest takes over. It doesn’t take me long before I drift off to sleep as well. The morning comes too soon for someone who went to bed after two. Marissa’s alarm goes off making me groan and roll to my back. It’s too early be up on a Friday that I’m not working. Marissa doesn’t even move so I turn it off.

I kiss her neck a few times and whisper into her ear. “Marissa, baby, do you need to be up at six or did you forget to shut the alarm off for work?” “Work,” she mumbles but doesn’t move an inch. “When did you get here?” “About two.” We are silent for a few minutes. “How about medicine? When do you need to take it?” “Ugh.” Rolling onto her back, she begins a coughing jag again. I hate watching her like this. She sits up, and I rub her back while she tries to catch her breath. When she finally settles down, she jogs out of bed and slams the bathroom door behind her. I’m afraid she’s getting sick, so I get

up and make my way to the door. “Babe, are you okay?” The water sounds and she opens the door. Even though her eyes are puffy and glassy, they look alive and happy. “I had to pee.” Letting my head fall back, I laugh. “I was worried you were sick.” She steps into my embrace and lays her head on my chest. “Would you have held my hair back?” “Yup, as I was throwing up in the tub because I can’t watch anyone get sick.” My chuckling makes her giggle. Marissa mumbles into my chest because she is hugging me so hard. “I want to kiss you so bad, but I don’t want

to get you sick.” I tip her face to look up at me. Her pouty face is adorable. To hell if I get sick, I can’t resist her, but I know she’d feel horrible, so I kiss her forehead, pick her up and carry her back to bed tucking her under the down blanket. Propping myself up on my elbow, I look down at her. “Should I order breakfast so you can take your medicine?” She sticks her tongue out at me and crinkles her nose. “Food sounds gross; I can’t taste anything.” “But the medicine will make you sick if you don’t eat first.” I brush a stray hair behind her ear, and she leans into my

hand. “Fine.” She whines and pouts with her eyes shut, “You’re worse than my mother.” I shift so she’s under me. Looking over her face, I gaze into her glassy eyes. I lean closer to her ear and slowly thrust my hard on into her hip, “Do I still remind you of your mother?” “No…” She’s breathless and the shiver of her body doesn’t go unnoticed. After breakfast in bed, I tuck her back under the covers, and we take a nap. This is exactly where I want to be. This is home. I love when Marissa tucks herself under my arm and snuggles into my chest. The feeling of her draped over

me brings my heart alive. I stroke her back as I listen to the sound of the news playing softly in the background. When Marissa is breathing evenly, and I’m sure she is asleep, I kiss the top of her head and whisper, “I’m falling in love with you.” No sooner do the words leave my lips, I feel a smile creep across her face. My heart stills, wondering if she heard me. Maybe she isn’t asleep after all, but she doesn’t respond. Letting the breath go that I was holding, I tighten my hold and join her in sleep. I wake her up again around lunch, and we go through the same pattern, eat and nap. When evening rolls around,

she is feeling well enough to make her way to the wedding rehearsal but opts out of the dinner to come back to the hotel for more rest. We grab a pizza and have a picnic on the bedspread. “You seem better. I haven’t heard you cough in about an hour.” She smiles. “I think you’re giving me strength.” We fall into a comfortable silence, watching television as we finish our food. When she snuggles up on the pillows, I move the trash out of the way before scooping her up. “I can walk you know.” She chuckles as she links her arms around my neck. Kissing her cheek, “Can’t a man take

care of his woman?” She rolls her eyes then sets her head on my shoulder. I love the way she fits against my body. We’re made for each other. I walk into the bathroom and set her on the counter. Turning around, I start the water in the soaking tub in the small suite. Marissa fidgets with her long tshirt while she looks over at my preparations. Stepping up between her legs, I frame her face with my hands, looking deep into her eyes. They look glassy and drained while her nostrils have a red tinge to them from blowing her nose. She couldn’t be more adorable if she tried. I lean in to kiss along her jaw moving my

hands down her body before grabbing the hem of her shirt. Pulling it over her head, I’m greeted by my angel’s naked body. “No panties?” My eyebrow cocks and I can’t hide my smirk. She sniffles and shrugs. “They were bothering me.” “You’re making it very difficult to be a gentleman.” I grab her hips and slide her closer to the edge of the counter making her legs spread as I stand between them. My thumbs stroke her porcelain skin. “Who asked you to?” She’s trying hard to be sexy and sultry, but a coughing spell takes over. “Oh baby,” wrapping her in my arms,

I guide her head to rest on my chest as I stroke her back. When she finally calms down, I back out of the embrace and slide out of my clothes. I pick her up and help her settle into the warm water. When we’re comfortable, I reach over the side and put a little of the soap that smells like Vicks in the water. Pulling her back to me, I rub her tense shoulder muscles to help her relax. “Where did you get that?” Marissa chuckles as she takes a deep breath of the scent that fills the room. I kiss her temple. “I ran to the mall and the pharmacy while you were at the rehearsal.” Her eyes close and she takes another

breath. “It smells wonderful. It’s helping. Thank you.” We sit contentedly in the tub but then Marissa brings up Sawyer popping by my house. I explained what happened and she said that she felt sorry for her and she hoped everything with between Sawyer and Caleb was okay. I love how she’s always thinking of others over herself even when she’s sick. When we finish talking, I hold her until the water goes cold. Marissa’s fallen asleep on my chest, but her breathing has been easier, and she hasn’t broken out into a cough in a while. I hate to wake her to get us out of the tub, but I don’t want the cool water to send

another chill through her. Once I get her out and wrapped in the hotel robe, I get her tucked into bed then I go about cleaning up the room to make sure everything is set for tomorrow before I crawl in and pull her to me again. Saturday morning rolls around, and Marissa’s feeling better. The medication is doing its job, and she looks radiant when she gets out of the shower. The water dripping from her body makes me salivate, and it’s extremely hard for me to control myself as I watch her run the towel over her delicious curves. My vixen notices the tent in the sheets and makes good use of my hard cock. It’s the

first time in three days that I haven’t heard her cough for an extended period. I will say it’s hard not to kiss her, though. She’s avoiding my lips just in case she’s still contagious even though I tell her, at this stage, it’s a mute point. Preparing to leave, she gives me the cutest puppy dog eyes. “I wish you could be with me tonight at the reception.” Stepping up to me, she slides her arms around my waist and lays her head on my chest. “Well, I’ll be here waiting when it’s over.” “But I should’ve marked plus one on my RSVP card.” Kissing the top of her head I chuckle,

“You didn’t know you’d have such a great guy months ago.” “Someone’s full of himself.” I pull her away from me and tip her chin up to the look at me. She’s desperately trying not to laugh. “Do I need to show you again how great I am?” Her eyes dilate with lust, “Damn, Liam, if I wasn’t already running late . . .” I kiss the tip of her nose. “I know baby. I’ll be waiting for you, but before you leave, I have something for you. Wait right here . . .” Walking back into the room, I grab a small cosmetic bag and a little box. Taking a deep breath, I

make my way back to her. “Now, promise me you’ll call me if you need anything, but this bag should have everything you’ll need to make it through the day and night.” Marissa takes the bag and looks through the stuff, “Awe, Liam.” Her voice sings. “Tissues, medicine, cough drops,” looking up at me, she has a tear in her eye, “slippers, hair ties, you’ve thought of everything.” “One more thing . . .” Taking the bag from her, I hand her the small jewelry box. She bites her lip and opens the lid. “Oh my God, Liam.” Taking the studs out of the box, she gasps at the purplish-

green gems. “These are the most beautiful earrings I’ve ever seen.” “They’re called alexandrite. They remind me of your eyes. I saw them at the mall yesterday and had to get them for you.” She slides the gems in, and I tuck her hair behind her ear to look at them. Tangling my fingers in her hair, I lean down and take her lips in a hungry kiss. I can’t help myself. She sighs as she leans into me. Our tongues tangle for dominance. Separating, I rest my forehead on hers. “Marissa, I know we’ve only been together for just over a month, but I’m falling in love with you.” “I love you too, Liam,” she sniffles. I kiss her again and back her up to the

wall, sickness and schedules be damned. Our make out session’s deepening but her phone starts to ring. Pushing me back a bit, she reaches into her pocket. “It’s the maid of honor,” she cringes. “Go, I’ll be here tonight.” Grabbing her bags, I hand them to her and open the door for her to walk through. She grabs the items, and she kisses me again before sliding out the door with a swat on her ass. Marissa yelps but turns around with the biggest sinful grin on her face. “You’re going to get it, Mister.” “Bring it on, Miss Conner.” Her mouth opens to respond, but her phone goes off again. “You’re so damn

lucky I have to answer this,” she smirks as she presses the elevator button. I lean up against the doorframe and watch her answer the phone when the elevator doors open. She gives me a wave before the doors shut and I go back to the room to wait for her to return.

Two months have gone by since the wedding weekend. Marissa and I walked back into work the Tuesday we returned together, and no one seemed to notice that we were both gone at the same time. Thankfully, I didn’t catch

Marissa’s cold, but there were rumors about us being in a relationship. I’m sure Drew started them, but we both kept to ourselves, and we thought they went away. Of course, Marissa and I have had our close calls when we can’t keep our hands to ourselves in my office, or when we engage in a little heavy petting under the conference table during a meeting. That incident had me in a lot of trouble when we got home that night, but I showed her again how she melts at my touch, and all was forgiven. Today’s a huge day for me. Zach and I have a meeting with a client that could set us both up for early retirement.

Rolling over, I reach to the side of the bed that Marissa sleeps on, but find it empty. Sitting up, I rub my eyes and look around the room. It’s bright; the sun is just coming up. Reaching over to grab my phone, I see it’s only seven. I must have slept through Marissa’s alarm. Getting up, I stalk to the bathroom door and stop when I hear her moving behind the closed slab. Rapping lightly on the door, “You okay, sweetie?” I hear the toilet lid shut, and the water turns on. The door cracks open, and her face is drained of color, her eyes are bloodshot and sunken in. “No.” Opening my mouth to say something

when her face goes green again, covering her mouth, she turns and loses it again in the bowl of the toilet that she almost doesn’t get open in time. My stomach turns, but I steel myself and walk in behind her to pull her hair back. Rubbing her lower back, I’m pretty proud of myself for keeping it together. Sitting back on her heels she takes a deep breath between statements. “I haven’t . . . been feeling well . . . but today . . . I lost it.” She heaves again, and I have to look away. “Why haven’t you said anything to me?” I say softly. “It’s gone by the time I eat breakfast normally, so I didn’t think anything of it,

but I guess it’s the flu.” “Stay home and rest.” Looking over her shoulder, I can tell she wants to punch me. “Are you kidding me? Today’s the big meeting.” Marissa gets up and splashes her face with cold water. “I’ll be fine. It’s passed before; today is no different.” “But if you have the flu . . .” “Liam, I said no.” I hold my hands up in defeat. “Okay, love,” I kiss her cheek. “I’m going to make some coffee.” Making eye contact with her in the mirror, I see her look nauseated by the mention, and her voice gives her

trepidation away. “That’d be great.” Marissa avoids the kitchen all morning, and I end up getting ready in the spare bathroom. I’ve asked her a few times if she was sure she wanted to go into work today, but she insists. At the office, I still left her the chocolate kiss on her desk even though she wasn’t feeling well. It made her smile, so I’m happy I did. Settling in work, I’m getting a nervous stomach because of the meeting that we have in an hour. Sitting at my desk, I have a perfect view of Marissa at her desk. She is going through a file, and her legs are tucked under her chair. I noticed that she wore her glasses today, which is the first

time that she’s ever done that. “Marissa?” I call out. Her head pops up, and she turns around to look at me. Smiling, I wink and mouth I love you. She blushes and nods before turning back to her desk. The time goes by quickly as I’m making the last few adjustments to the portfolio that I’m working on. A knock on the door catches my attention. “Ready to go upstairs?” Blowing out a deep breath, “As ready as I can be.” Marissa steps in and shuts the door behind her. I’m glad that she is looking better. The color has returned to her face, and she’s smiling that secret smile

that she only gives to me. I was worried about her this morning. Walking up to me, she places her hands on my chest and straightens the lapels on my suit coat. “You’ve got this. We’ve spent so much time on it, you’re going to blow them out of the water.” I rest my head on her forehead. “I love you. Thank you for everything you’ve done to help me with this.” She backs up and shrugs, “It’s my job.” Laughing, I pull her to me, wrapping her in my arms. We keep each other’s gaze for a few seconds before I kiss her, messing up her lipstick. When we part, Marissa laughs at me with the red stain

on my lips. “Nice look.” “You’re going to get it.” I turn her around and smack her ass before she sneaks out of the office to grab me a makeup remover wipe. After we are straightened up, I guide her to the elevator. When the doors shut, I grab her hand and pull it up to kiss, but let go just before the doors slide open. Stepping into the meeting room, Zach and his assistant are already in there conversing with the group of men. Everyone stops to look at us as we walk through the door. “Mr. Black, this is Liam Scott and his assistant, Marissa Conner. They’ve taken the lead on your portfolio. You’ll find

that they’ve spent countless hours on your files and can present you with an outstanding recommendation to propel your growth beyond your expectations.” We all shake hands and take a seat. Getting an opportunity to work with a mega-millionaire is every financial consultant’s dream. How it got passed to me, I have no idea, but I’m grateful for the opportunity. Everything was going well, and we were getting along perfectly until Zach’s assistant brought in the coffee, tea, and bagels. The smell overpowered the room, and I noticed Marissa push away from the table slightly. She doesn’t move, but I can see the change in her

demeanor. I keep talking but move my hand under the table to stroke her knee. As discreetly as possible, I look over to her as I’m speaking. Her skin turns a dull gray, and I can see the fear in her eyes. Glancing back to the table, Zach passes me a cup of coffee, and Marissa pushes out of her seat and runs out of the room. “Whoa!” a few of the guys say with a chuckle. “I’m brought back to the memories of my wife’s morning sickness. That’s something I don’t care to relive anytime soon,” Caston Black laughs as he takes a sip of his water and spreads the cheese on his bagel. My eyes go wide, and

Zach’s head nearly flies off turning to look at me. “I’m sorry, that was rude of me,” Caston apologizes. “Oh, no worries,” Zach chimes in, because I'm frozen in place. “My wife's pregnant now with twins and I’ve been through it, too.” After a few seconds that seem like hours, Zach clears his throat. “Liam, would you like to continue or should we break for a few minutes?” Blinking, I look over to him, but I’m still mute. “Okay, looks like a short break, gentlemen, would that be okay?” Mr. Black and his associates agree, which gives me time to scoot out of the room in search of Marissa. Walking out of the board room, I

pause outside the door. Running a hand over my face, I blow out a deep breath. I’m in my own world because I don’t even notice the secretaries have stopped their conversation to stare at me. “Mr. Scott?” one of them says tentatively. “Is there anything I can help you with?” “Did Marissa walk by here?” I know she did. There isn’t any other way to go, but it’s better than outright asking where she went. “She ran down the hall toward the bathrooms. Is she okay?” I nod as I start to move in that direction. “Yeah, she told me earlier that she wasn’t feeling well. Thank you for

your concern.” As soon as I leave, I hear the whispers between the ladies. I can only guess as to what they’re saying about her. It boils my blood to think about, but I need to check on Marissa first. The hallway’s dim and there’s nothing else down here but the restrooms. Stopping in front of the woman’s door, I lay my hand on it before tentatively cracking it open. “Mar? You in here?” “No.” Her voice is hoarse. “Anyone in there with you or can I come in?” “I’m alone.”

Opening the door, I step inside. After the door closes, I lock it so no one else will come in. Marissa’s leaning on the sink taking deep breaths. Moving over to her, I rub her back and shoulders. My mouth opens and closes a few times, but nothing comes out. Marissa squeezes her eyes shut and shakes her head. “Oh my God, this is horrible. I’ve never been this sick before.” Kissing the back of her head, I swallow hard, “Okay, don’t kill me here but . . . shit, how do I ask this?” Marissa’s eyes meet mine in the mirror. “Is there any way you’re pregnant?” “Liam!” She moves from my touch

and seems as though my words scorned her. “I’m just wondering, that’s all. They made a joke when you ran from the room, and it just got me wondering. You said it’s been like this for a while, but seems to dissipate throughout the day.” A hand flies up to her mouth, “Oh shit. The antibiotics.” “I’m not following you.” “When I was sick, I was on antibiotics. They can interfere with oral birth control.” She holds her head with her hand, and the other’s propped on her hip. “How could I have been so stupid?” “Baby, it’s okay. We’ll take one step at a time.” I step up to her, trying to pull

her into an embrace, but she steps away. “I have to go. I have to get a test.” Her hands are shaking, and I can tell she’s about to freak out. “Come here.” Opening my arms out to her, she walks into my embrace. I feel myself calm the minute she’s close to me. “Go to my office. This won’t take me much longer. We’ll go together at lunch and head home. No matter what the results, Marissa . . .” I move to tip her head back to look at me. She tries to divert her eyes, but I won’t let her. I want to make sure she knows I’m dead serious. “I’ll be there with you every step of the way.” Her beautiful eyes fill with tears, and

I lean down to take her lips in a slow, deep kiss. A feeling passes through us. One that connects us more deeply than we have been up to this point. Her hands grab my suit coat, and I frame her face keeping her lips pressed to mine. We get lost in each other. I love her and pray she feels it, as well as my support for her.

Marissa waited in my office while I finished the meeting with Mr. Black. It didn’t take long, but I had to go over a few details with Zach afterward. “Did you knock her up?” Zach bluntly asks after the door closes on our client. “Can we get this shit finished so I can

go?” I’m not happy with his tone, and I’m not in the mood to listen to his lecture. “You do realize that the reason we are in our work positions because of interoffice relationships . . .” I cut him off because I want nothing more than to punch him in the face right now. All I can think about is getting back to Marissa and taking care of her, and he’s prolonging things. “I get that, Zach. I wish I had something to tell you, but,” I shake my head and rub my hand over my hair, “we aren’t sure.” He moves to the table to grab the paperwork. “Go, find out and then get your ass back in the office. We can go

over it later, but so help me, Liam, if she’s pregnant, you both better figure out what’s going to happen so all of our asses aren’t on the line.” Scrubbing my face with my hands, I groan. “God, what am I going to do?” Zach walks by and smacks me on the ass. “Don’t speculate until you know.” I take a deep breath and head back to my office. Putting on a brave face, I open the door but find Marissa curled up on my office couch fast asleep. I don’t have the heart to wake her, especially since she was feeling so horrible earlier. Walking over, I cover her with the decorative blanket I had on the back of the couch. She looks so peaceful.

Reaching over, I stroke her cheek and tuck a stray hair behind her ear. She doesn’t wake so I take a seat behind my desk and get some work done. A few hours later, Marissa wakes up with a start which makes me jump as well. “Oh God, how long was I asleep?” Checking my watch, “About three hours.” “Are you serious? Damn, why didn’t you wake me?” She wipes her mouth and tries to straighten her hair. “Was I drooling?” “And snoring,” I chuckle. She grunts at me and makes a face that just makes me laugh harder.

“Well, you snore too!” She crosses her arms over her chest and pouts. “Hey, I never said I didn’t.” She looks past me out the window. Her eyes look like she’s in another place. I turn in my seat to gather my suit coat before standing up “Are you hungry?” “Actually, I am.” She blushes. “I feel better too. I might be able to keep food down.” I walk to the other side of my desk and help her up, gathering her in my arms. She welcomes my embrace. When we separate, I grab her hand and I pull it up to my lips to kiss it, “Let’s grab some carryout, head to the drug store, and then

home.” “We’re still going to do this?” Her face scrunches up, and I laugh. Leaning over, I kiss her. “We need to know, the sooner, the better.” “I know we do, but Liam?” Looking down into her eyes, “Yes, baby.” “I’m scared.” Kissing the tip of her nose, I frame her face, “I’m right there with you, but everything is going to be okay.” Almost an hour later, we walk into my house and into the kitchen with our food. Marissa sets the paper bag on the counter then walks away like it’s

poisonous. We sit at the table and dish out the Chinese. Our silence while eating isn’t our normal comfortable one. There’s a big what if hanging over us. Catching her eyeing me, I smile, but she quickly glances away. “I can’t do it.” She states. “You don’t have to right now.” “What if I’m not ready? What if I don’t want a baby? What about my job?” Marissa’s about to hit full-on meltdown stage, but I go to her, pulling her into my arms, and hold her until she stops shaking. “Hey, we don’t even know what the test is going to say. Don’t jump to conclusions, okay.”

“How are you so calm?” Her voice muffled by her face shoved into my chest. “Oh, I’m far from calm, but I’m trying to be strong for you.” Scooping her up in my arms, I take her to the living room and sit with her on the couch. After what seems like hours, Marissa’s finally not shaking like a leaf in my arms. We haven’t spoken; I’ve just held her and stroked her back giving her a silent courage. “What’s worrying you?” I speak quietly so I don’t frighten her. I’ve never seen her like this, and it scares me. Taking a deep breath, she shivers. “We’ve only been together for three

months.” I chuckle, “They’ve been the best three months of my life, honestly. Do you regret them?” Marissa shakes her head. Tipping her head back to look at me, I search her eyes for that spark I know is in there. “Trust me when I say, I love you. I’ve never felt this strongly about anyone before. I’ll be here for you.” “I don’t want to saddle you down.” “Who’s saying that? Haven’t you noticed the swing set in the backyard?” My face lights up with joy. “I bought this house to start a family. This might be fate’s way of telling us we’re ready for that next step.” Placing a light kiss on her lips, she sighs.

“But it’s only been a few months.” “Why does time matter, Marissa? I feel like I’ve known you longer than I’ve known anyone.” “I feel the same.” “Then who’s counting? Hell everyone does it backwards these days. They have babies first then get married. It’s the new normal.” She smiles but her eyes still aren’t showing me that she’s okay with this. “Well, let’s get this over with.” Getting off my lap, she walks to the kitchen and grabs the paper bag from the counter. Standing up, I intercept her from walking down the hallway. My hands grab her shoulders, “Marissa, if I could

do this for you, I would.” She starts laughing through tears. “Liam, you’re really the best guy around. What did I do to deserve you?” Hugging her tight again, I kiss the top of her head. “Love you.” “Love you more.” Taking her hand, we walk down the hall. We part ways after a quick smack on the ass from me. When she shuts the door, I turn to sit on the edge of the bed in the bedroom. My hands tremble, and my palms are sweaty. In three short minutes, our lives could change forever. 3 MONTHS LATER

“Sweets are you ready to go?” I call out to Marissa, who’s in the bathroom getting ready. Moving about the room, I’m picking up some of the clothes that were strewn around after our love making got wild last night. Seeing the yellow thong on the ground, I smile when I remember running into her at the mall. The day that started our whirlwind affair. “Are you going to pocket my panties like a perv?” she jokes when she walks out. I nearly swallow my tongue. How can she get more beautiful each day? Her breasts are spilling out of her demi-

cut red lace bra with a matching lace thong. The fuckable garter straps hold up thigh high stockings that have a seam running up the back of her leg in a perfect line. Groaning, I have to readjust myself. “You’re killing me Marissa. When you didn’t live here, I could make it through the day just fine because I didn’t know what you had under your clothes, but now, I see these sexy things each morning and know that I can’t do anything about them until the end of the day, and it’s killing me.” Looking over her shoulder, she slides in one of her diamond earrings I got her. “Should I get ready in the bathroom from now on?”

Moving up behind her, I wrap my arms around her waist and cradle the small bump that carries our child. Kissing her shoulder, I nip it lightly. “Don’t you dare.” She hums some tune, and I just enjoy the feel of her silky skin under my hands. “You aren’t going to feel the baby yet?” “I can hope can’t I?” she laughs and turns in my arms, so I settle my hands on her bare ass. “This will work too.” Pushing up on her toes she kisses me. “I need to finish getting ready, or my boss will have my ass.” Winking, I counter, “He already

does.” I squeeze it for good measure, and she yelps when I give it a quick smack. “Don’t start or we won’t get to work. You know how my sex drive has been.” Kissing down her neck and along her collarbone, she leans her head to give me more room. “I do. I’m not complaining.” She playfully pushes me away, but I have a hold on her. We do a small spin, and she lands on the bed on her back with a little squeal, but I’m right next to her peppering her belly with kisses. “I love you, little gummy bear.” “I’m not going to be able to hide it much longer, babe.”

Nodding, I know the time’s coming that we’re going to have to face the music or make another plan. After the initial shock that we were going to be parents, Marissa moved in, and we’ve talked a little about what will happen in the future. I know without a doubt that I will marry her, but she doesn’t want to get engaged right now. She said even though she knows I love her, it will always be in the back of my head that I’m doing it because she’s having my baby. I’ve argued my points but she’s adamant, so I let her win this fight . . . for now. Arriving at work was like any other Monday. It was quiet to start, but when

everyone trickled in, the phones were crazy, emails filtered in non-stop, and new rumors of position changes began. None of it bothered Marisa or me. We just stayed in our own little world working together to produce the best results for my clients. I’m deep in a portfolio when Zach comes to my door with Marissa on his heels. “I need to talk to you both.” Looking at his eyes, I know something isn’t right. Marissa looks around Zach’s arm; her eyes are big and wide with worry. “Should we take an early lunch or can we talk here?” I close my folder and rest my arms in front of me.

Zach walks in and takes a seat on my couch. Marissa follows and shuts the door behind her. Even though we’re in my office, we still talk in hushed tones because the office walls aren’t that thick. “What’s going on Zach?” “There’s been talk among the partners. Someone has brought up to Mr. Banks that there was an office relationship going on.” Marissa looks over to me, and I open my arms to welcome her to my lap. “Now, I’m not sure that they were talking about you guys because when I got closer to the conversation they stopped talking.” “Well, they probably did that because they know you and Liam are friends,”

Marissa states grabbing onto my hand. I let my thumb slide along her skin, trying to keep her calm. Zach shrugs, “Could be, but I don’t know that to be a fact. You guys just really need to figure out what you’re going to do. Marissa won’t be able to hide her pregnancy much longer. The fact that you’ve hidden it this long has been amazing.” Kissing her shoulder, I rub her belly under her loose-fitting maxi skirt. “One of the girls mentioned my wardrobe change over the last few months this morning in the break room,” Marissa states looking at me. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

Shrugging, “It’s been busy. It didn’t throw me too much, and I think I covered it well.” Zach gets up and reaches for the door. “I’m just giving you a warning, guys. I don’t want you to be caught off guard.” “Thanks, man.” Marissa gets up and opens the door so when it’s open no one sees her on my lap. The minute Zach’s gone, she shuts it again and resumes her spot. “I think our time is up.” I stroke her back as she lies her head on my shoulder. “Yeah, should we do it this afternoon?”

“Let’s go up about three. Can you try to make an appointment with Mr. Banks?” “Yes, boss,” she says in her sultry voice as her fingers play with the knot in my tie. “Woman, you’re going to kill me.” “I don’t know how much longer I’ll be able to call you that.” Lifting her from my lap, I set her on the edge of my desk and push her skirt up. “Crotchless?” “A girl can hope.” “You vixen.” Rolling my chair up, I dive in and lick her lightly. Leaning back, I look at the glistening pussy in

front of me. “You can’t do that and stop,” she whines. Cocking my eyebrow at her, I laugh when she grunts and grabs my hair to push me back down to feast on her delicious bare pussy. After a few semiquiet orgasms, I’m straining against my pants. “As much as I want to bend you over my desk and pound into you like no tomorrow, I need to finish this portfolio, and you need to make that appointment.” Hopping off my desk, she straightens herself up and fixes my hair. “I owe you.” I’m about to grab her and pull her

back to me when there’s a knock on my door. We scramble to get in a nonincriminating position. “Yes?” I call out. The door cracks open and Patty, Mr. Burns secretary, pops her head in. “Oh I see Marissa’s in here. I’m sorry to . . .” she looks at us, “interrupt, but I was supposed to bring this file down, and she wasn’t at her desk.” Looking over to Marissa, Patty purses her lips. “Your phone was also ringing, so here is your message.” Handing me the paper, I grab the file from her as well and the pink message paper. “Thank you, Patty. That wasn’t necessary, but thanks.”

“Anytime I can help.” Her voice grates my nerves, and I can see Marissa wanting to pounce from her seat on the couch. “I’m just doing my job.” She sneers at Marissa when she says it before turning on her heels to leave. The minute the door shuts Marissa lets out her frustration. “She’s the one telling Mr. Burns shit. She’s a petty bitch who isn’t getting laid by him anymore and he’s pissed off, so she wants to ruin anyone else who’s happy. Oh, if I could just get my hands on her.” I have to walk over to her and settle her down. Rubbing my hands up and down her arms, “Babe, your veins are popping out of your forehead. Don’t let

her stress you out.” “It’s just not fair. She gets one person fired because she sleeps with him and Mr. Burns finds out about it, and then when he stops sleeping with her, she decides to make everyone else’s life a nightmare. The phone wouldn’t have been ringing out there either because I have it on silent. Only the light flashes.” “Marissa, I know.” “Liam, that means she was snooping on my desk. Damn it, let me get to her.” I have to physically keep her on the couch, and I can’t help but laugh. “It’s going to be okay remember? We’re talking to Mr. Burns today.” She sags into the back of the couch

cradling her belly without even realizing it. “I know, but it just makes me so angry that because of her my life is going to change so much.” Kissing her lightly, I sigh, “I know. I’m sorry.” Shrugging, I can tell she’s upset, but from our previous talks, I know once the baby’s here she’ll be happy because this is what she wants.

Three o’clock rolls around and Marissa and I are walking out of the elevator to Mr. Burns’ office. Patty is sitting at her desk with her headset on filing her nails. Looking over to Marissa, I see her jaw clench and her fists ball up. Placing my hand on the

small of her back, I stroke it lightly. She looks over at me and smiles tentatively. It’s that moment that Patty decides to look up, “Well, well, look who’s here.” “Is Mr. Burns available?” I decided not to have Marissa make the appointment after Patty’s intrusion. I didn’t want to give her any more fuel to add to the fire that she’s already started. “I don’t know.” She turns around and flips through a few screens. “Let me check.” Taking off her headset she gets up and steps out from behind her desk and heads to the big mahogany door. When she opens and closes the door, Marissa turns to me “I don’t have a good feeling about this.”

“It’s going to be okay. He’s not as spiteful as she is.” “I wouldn’t be too sure about that.” Cupping her cheek, I stroke it a minute to calm her. We stand for what seems like hours waiting for Patty to come out. When she does, she indicates that Mr. Burns will see us. Just to piss her off, I grab Marissa’s hand and bring it to my lips and kiss the back, all while never taking my eyes off Patty. Her hollow orbs scrunch up, and her mouth opens. Guiding Marissa in, I shut the door behind her, and we make our way to his desk. “Please sit, what can I do for you

two?” he starts. Marissa looks over to me, and I smile. “Well, Sir, we would like to thank you for giving us the opportunity to work together. Marissa and I were just starting a relationship when you offered me the new position that I’m currently holding. We know that inter-office relationships are frowned upon and, in our situation, forbidden.” “Yes, we can’t have employees in relationships with the person they report to. It’s a liability.” “We know Sir; it’s just that we figured if it didn’t interfere our work that it would be okay.” “But that’s not how it works, Mr.

Scott.” Mr. Burns presses his lips together in spite. Grabbing Marissa’s hand, I look over at her and smile. “No matter, we found love and have been together for six months. We’re only telling you this because there have been rumors going around that we need to address.” Folding his hands to rest on his big belly, like a pregnant woman, “Go ahead.” “First, I’d like you to pull up my margins. If you notice, not only have they not gone down since we’ve been together, they’ve gone up, almost forty percent. That’s huge, and I’m sure with the addition of Mr. Black’s company as

one of my newest clients that it will only increase by the end of the year. Second, without Marissa, all the long hours and research that I had to do would not have been possible because we work so well together. We were able to pull together the necessary items that Mr. Black needed to put all of his trust in our company to handle his financials.” “Most of our senior partners would have been able to do that, too.” “Possibly, but somehow I got the chance and proved that I can take on such a daunting job. I know some of the partners were angry when they found out that I got a hold of Mr. Black as a client, but honestly, I was the one who initiated

the cold call, and I did all the legwork to prepare him while Marissa was the one to follow up with his office. We took our job and expanded on it, creating a tight relationship that Mr. Black now looks upon for questions and advice.” “And we are all thankful for this new acquisition.” “Be it as it may, the whispers about Marissa and I have only grown.” “Well, it appears they are true.” His voice sounds like a dead rat. “Mr. Burns, we just want your blessing to continue working together.” “I’m not sure I can do that.” Marissa’s hand tightens around mine.

I didn’t want to do this, but we already had things in order in case it came down to it. “So were the rumors true that you’re going to let us both go?” A smug smile crosses his face. “Just her.” I hear Marissa gasp, but I don’t want him to win. “She won’t be going, we both will.” “Liam, think about your career.” “I am,” standing; I help Marissa up. Pulling her to my side, I slide a hand around her waist and place a hand on her belly, showing off her small rounded stomach. “Marissa and I will be formally putting in our resignations.”

She hands him our letters. “It’s something I need to do for our family.” Mr. Burns quickly glances over our letters and his mouth drops open, “Liam, son, no need to get hasty. We can work this out.” Guiding Marissa out of his office without a glance back in his direction, he’s scrambling to get our computers locked. Once out of the door she smiles up at me with a giggle. Out in the waiting area, Patty scoffs at us. Waiting for the elevator, I embrace Marissa in a hug and, framing her face, I lean down and kiss her lightly. I can almost hear Patty’s jaw drop to the ground. When the elevator opens, Marissa looks over her

shoulder. “Now who are you going to spread rumors about?” Stepping into the elevator, Marissa does a little snarky wave before flipping her the bird as the doors close on her shocked expression. When we step out onto our floor, I grab both of our boxes that we had prepared, and we walk down the steps to HR to turn in our information before heading out to the parking lot to start our new lives.

7 Months Later

“Marissa, we need to leave.” I stand bobbing little Rose in my arms. “I know, I’m almost ready.” It’s Marissa’s first day back to work, and I know she’s nervous. Before we turned in our resignation,

we had taken a position with Black Hollywood as Caston Black’s personal financial advisors. I had confided in him with about our situation, and he immediately offered me the position which I was more than happy to take. Not only is my salary tripled, but I'm also working for someone I admire, and I have his respect which is important to me. I insisted that Marissa be allowed to remain my assistant, and Caston was more than happy to accommodate my request. He said he works better with his wife too, so he understands the importance of having her with me. I work better with her and am happy she’s coming back from maternity leave

finally. When I initially suggested that she stay home with Rose instead of coming back to work, you would have thought I asked her to kill someone. Needless to say, I slept on the couch for a few days after that conversation, but I knew I was forgiven the night I woke up with her curled on my chest in the living room. I’m lost in thought when she takes our little girl from my arms, kissing her fuzzy head before kissing my cheek. “I’m sorry. It’s just been a while and finding something that fits . . .” “You look amazing. I don’t want to hear you cutting yourself down.” Grabbing her around the waist, I stroke

her back with my fingers letting the trail down her ass. “But I haven’t lost the baby weight —” Taking her mouth in a deep kiss, I cut her off. “You’re perfect.” She rolls her eyes and heads off down the hall, her ass swaying perfectly in her pencil skirt and heels clicking on the hardwood. “Babe, have you seen the formula holder?” Just like that, I’m back to daddy mode instead of lusting after the woman of my dreams. An hour later, my little family of

three pulls up to the Hollywood Headquarters. Parking in my assigned spot, I jump out of the car and head to Marissa’s side. Opening the door, I get Rose out along with the diaper bag. Turning back around, Marissa is frozen in spot and her face is a pale white. “Mar, what’s wrong? Are you okay?” “Am I doing the right thing going back to work? Is Rose going to be okay?” Taking her hand, I kiss the back of it. “She’s going to be right down the hall at the office daycare. You can see her anytime you want.” “You’re right.” She looks to me and smiles tentatively, nodding. “I know

you’re right.” Walking into the building, I introduce her and our little girl to just about everyone in the office. Marissa has calmed down, at least on the outside, as she makes her rounds. Stopping at the daycare door, she takes a deep breath. Taking the car seat from me, she steps inside but stops me before I follow her. “I’ll meet you at our office okay? I need to do this myself.” “Are you sure?” Nodding her answer, I lean over and kiss her. “I’ll be just down the hall if you need me. Take your time.” I know this is hard for her. It was hard for me to go to work after Rose

was born and I was home for two weeks with them, but for Marissa, it’s going to be worse. She’s been with her twentyfour-seven for the first three months of her life. Taking my seat, I’m deep in work and don’t even realize how long it’s been because I’m used to not having Marissa here. When the door opens, and she walks in, I’m by her side instantly. “Oh my God, what’s wrong? Is Rose okay?” “Yes,” she whimpers. “She didn’t even care that I was leaving her with someone else,” her voice stutters. “She didn’t even cry.” “Honey, she’s three months old. She

doesn’t know any better.” “But I do.” Marissa wails and throws herself into my arms. I chuckle a little, but when Marissa slugs me in the side, I tighten my arms around her and rock her back and forth. “You can still go home. You don’t have to do this. I make enough that you can be a stay-at-home mom.” “I’d go crazy. I can’t.” “Well, you can take more time before you start.” Straightening her spine, she swipes at her eyes. “No, I’ll be okay. I’m fine. Is that my desk?” She points to the desk on the side of the room.

“It is. Do you like it?” Walking over, she runs her hands along the shiny mahogany. “Looks like I have everything I need. Where do I start?” Smiling, I show her the programs and work begins without a hitch. We are a great team and she is my better half. The hours fly by and I have never been so thankful to head home. It’s just been a long day, but having both my girls in the car with me makes everything better. My stomach is fluttering hoping I can pull off the surprise for Marissa tonight. It’s a year today that we ran into each other at the mall. I’ve purposely not mentioned our anniversary, and she’s

had too big a day to remember. When we pull into the drive, I lean over to Marissa and kiss her cheek. “I’ve got Rose when we get inside; I want you to take a relaxing bath. You had a big first day. I have dinner planned and everything is taken care of.” She cocks her eyebrow at me. “That’s a lot to take on.” Mocking hurt, “Are you saying I can’t handle it?” “Well . . .” she laughs, “I can barely handle it.” “I’ve got this. Don’t worry, okay?” I know she’s thinking that I’m going to be calling for help within a few

minutes, but I know I won’t. When Marissa closes the bathroom door in our room, I go to work. Setting the table, I talk to Rose, who I have content in the swing. “Your mommy and I met a year ago, did you know that?” She smiles. “Yes, you weren’t even a sparkle in our eyes yet, but I’m so glad you’re here.” Her hands move around, and her little legs kick. Stopping, I look at her, and I just can’t believe she’s mine. “You look so much like your mom. I’m in so much trouble when you get older. Dad better get some guns to scare off the boys, huh?” Again she kicks her legs and smiles at me. “Okay, what’s next . . .?” Looking around the room, I take out

the ingredients for spaghetti and get the pot out of the cupboard for the noodles. The garlic bread gets popped into the oven that has already come to temperature. Rose makes a gurgling sound and I turn back to her, “Oh, is it your dinner time?” Grabbing her stuff from the counter, I mix a bottle and scoop her up. I’m amazed that I’m able to feed her and continue to make dinner, but I’m beginning to become a pro. It feels like second nature. “Okay, we have to get this finished because I need to change you, so we’re ready for mommy to come out.” Rose is almost asleep when the bottle

is empty, but I sling her over my shoulder and get a good burp out of her. I’m happy that she did because she won’t spit up on the onesie I have to put on her . . . well, at least there’s a better chance that she won’t. You never know with a baby. Turning off the sauce and positioning myself so Rose isn’t near the oven, I open it and pull out the garlic bread. The noodles have a few more minutes, so I run down the hall and get Rose ready. I’m walking out of Rose’s room as Marissa opens the door of our room. Her hair’s wet, glasses on, and she looks so calm. “Feel better?” I lean over to kiss her.

“Much. Is the kitchen still in one piece?” “You didn’t think I could handle it did you?” Covering her mouth, she shakes her head. “Well, I’ll have you know, the noodles should be done right about now, and everything else is ready. I’ve fed Rose and changed her, too.” “I’m impressed.” Grabbing Rose from me, I watch to see if she notices her outfit. When she doesn’t, I chuckle as I pat my pocket, and a smirk graces my face. She sits down with Rose at the table as she nuzzles her head whispering quietly in her ear. I stand at the counter and just watch. Marissa was so worried

about being a mom, but she’s a natural. The way she interacts with Rose and cares for her is amazing. Scooping her a bowl of noodles, I pour some sauce over it and set it in front of her. “Why don’t you set Little Miss in the swing so you can eat with two hands? She’s pretty content right now, might as well take advantage of it.” “Okay.” I know this is the moment. My heart beats wildly in my chest. Watching her walk to the swing and lean over, I know the moment she reads Rose’s onesie. Her hands fly to her mouth, and she gasps. I’ve already taken my spot on one knee

and hold out the velvet box. Tears are already falling from her cheeks when she turns, and she’s shaking her head covering her mouth. “Marissa, it’s been one year today that we became a couple. It wasn’t something I was looking for, but I’m so glad that we bumped into each other that day. It’s been a whirlwind, but I wouldn’t change any part of it. I knew I loved you with all my heart, but then you became the mother of my daughter, and I fell in love with you more than I ever thought I could. It’s been a roller coaster, but we’ve gotten through it and came out stronger on the other end. I would love you to be my wife, finally. Please say

you’ll marry me.” Her head’s nodding and tears are falling harder. I get up and grab her hand. “Marry me, Marissa.” “Yes,” she mumbles. “Yes? Did you say yes?” She nods quickly, her hand shaking as I slide the ring on her finger. It’s a simple round solitaire, but Marissa isn’t a fancy woman. It’s humble, and it sparkles just like her. Grabbing her face, I pull her into a kiss. When we part, I hug her. Looking over her shoulder, “Hear that Rose, she said yes!” Our little baby waves her hands and kicks her legs, smiling up a storm. Marissa turns and tucks herself under my arm as we

watch her. “Where did you find a onesie that says ‘Will you marry daddy’?” Smiling big, I’m proud to be able to include Rose in my proposal. “I talked to Caston’s wife, and she hooked me up with some website called Esty.” “Well, that’s the cutest thing ever. We need a picture.” Laughing, I pick up Rose and hold her so we can take a selfie with all of us in it. Marissa holds up her hand with the ring on it, and I snap the picture. She grabs the phone and sends out a mass text to all our friends and family while I put Rose back in the swing. “Can we eat now, so it doesn’t get

too cold?” Chuckling, she cuddles up to me, pressing her hot body to me, “I have another idea.” Her voice smooth and sexy. “Oh yeah, what’s that?” “Why don’t we put Rose down for an early bedtime and you take me to bed.” I look over at the dinner spread on the table and back to Marissa, who has already started to head down the hall. There’s a trail of clothing in her wake. Picking Rose up, I kiss her puffy cheek. “Sorry baby girl, but momma’s calling the shots. Maybe I can work on making you a baby brother.” She rubs her face on my shoulder and

coos into my neck. Life couldn’t be any more perfect than it is right at this moment.

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Retta, for always being there for me every time I’ve beckoned you. I am SO thankful that we’ve become such amazing friends. Without you I’d go crazy. Your help with all things big and little takes stress off me and let’s me create these amazing books. Jaime, your friendship is special. I’m not sure how I’ve gone most of my life without you in it! Can you believe we’ve only known each other for a few years?

Tiffany Marie & Elizabeth Clinton, you ladies are my top pimpers! Thank you for believing in me enough to share my books with the world. Tracy, you kicked my butt into gear and helped open my eyes with this book. I hope I was able to get the rest of the book on the same page as you were able to help me in the beginning. Jen Leisenheimer for the final once over, I appreciate your extra critical eye and being there for me last minute. Broc, husband of the year, once again honey, I can’t thank you enough for sticking with me through everything. Thank you for letting me get out a few hours in the morning on the weekends to write alone. Thank you for

being my rock. I hope I didn’t neglect you too much. Love You! To my little baby girls. Mommy loves you. Your smiles and laughs make everything worth it. I do this for you so you know you can grow up to do anything you want if you keep your mind to it. To all the blogs and Facebook pages who have helped promote me along the way. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication. I love getting to know you and working with everyone has been a dream. Thank you for treating little old me like a big deal. I’d love to name you each personally, but out of fear that I will forget someone I won’t! To anyone I may have forgotten, THANK YOU! I love you!