Chapter 30

Allison

“You’re not going to be long, are you?” I hated to complain about going to the office, but it was the last place I wanted to be on Thanksgiving Day. It had almost been a year since we’d gotten together, and though it had been the longest year of my life, it was all worth it.

“Not too long. Unless you want to steal a moment with me?” His eyes smoldered, and he pulled me close, planting a kiss on my lips that lit a fire deep in my core.

We had fallen into the family mode faster than I’d thought, but even though we’d gotten things settled with Doug, who’d accepted a nice settlement in exchange for never seeing me or Sierra ever again, and though we’d moved into David’s childhood home, we’d yet to solidify our relationship with a marriage ceremony.

I’d been in agreement when we decided not to rush things, but I’d been waiting so long for him to pop the question, that I had all but given up. Sneaking a moment alone to be close was the most I could hope for. As it turned out living across from my mom and dad had been more challenging on our private time than I’d thought it would be.

“I think I could spare a little time.”

I barely got the last word out of my mouth, and he had me horizontal on the desk. “Here again? We’ve got the whole place to ourselves. How about you be a little bit more creative?” I took his hand and led him down the hall to his boardroom where all the important meetings were held.

“You’re going to give me a permanent distraction, aren’t you? You know every time I come in here to do business, I’ll be thinking of fucking you across this table.”

“That’s what I’m hoping. I should be a distraction.”

“You are, baby. You know you’re always on my mind, and it’s a dirty place to be.” He kissed the side of my neck and then kissed me down my neck and shoulder, lightly nipping my flesh.

Chill bumps rose along my arm and sent a charge of electricity straight to my sex. I pulled him closer and captured his mouth, cupping his face with my hands and raking my hands through his hair. He threw his head back, and I kissed him along his Adam’s apple and then up to his ear.

He hitched a breath through his teeth and let out a growl from his throat as I reached to undo his jeans. He responded by reaching down to the hem of my shirt and slipping his hand up my thigh, the fabric bunching up around my hips as he dropped to his knees. He closed his mouth over my panties and raked his teeth softly across the tender spot.

Heat bloomed at my core as he breathed against me and my desire grew so intense I lifted my leg and wrapped it around his hip.

“I want you spread out on that table, writhing beneath me and screaming my name.” I knew he loved the power he held in this room, and the power he had over me as well as he breathed into my ears and weakened my knees. “That’s right, baby. I’m going to fuck you so good.”

“Promises; promises,” I whispered against his chest. He took the challenge and gripped my ass, lifting me up, and as I held onto his neck, he lay me back and kissed me down my front only stopping once he’d met my panties again. He looked up and met my eyes, fisting the fabric over my mound and tugging it down, my panties ripping on the side. The noise made him smile, and he gripped the other side and ripped that one as well. He pulled the scrap of lace away from me and held it to his nose. He breathed in my scent and then grabbed my thighs, spreading me wide as his hips nudged forward. He rubbed his swollen head against my tight slit, and I felt another lick of desire as he found my entrance and thrust inside me. He jabbed it a little, then once his head popped inside my pussy, he slowly dove deeper, pushing forward unrelenting until his head was buried deep inside of me.

Despite our previous plans, I hadn’t stopped taking my pills and we’d both agreed I’d only do so when the time was right, and Sierra was adjusted to the change. I’d taken the last days ago, but with things at work being so crazy, we hadn’t had a minute to be together since.

“I’ve got a surprise for you, Daddy.” His eyes flashed as I called him by his favorite title. “I quit taking the pill four days ago.”

“That’s fucking hot, baby. Tell me you want me to put a baby inside of you.” He kissed my neck as I repeated the words.

“I want you to put a baby inside of me, David.” He pumped his hips harder in response, and I felt my walls clench on his cock as I came hard.

“That’s my girl. You’re my best girl, aren’t you baby.” He kissed my mouth and then pulled away.

“You know I am.” I moved off the table and turned my back to him, the hem of my skirt slipping back down to cover me.

He raised it up and slapped my ass, and I leaned forward over the table and turned back to look at him as he stepped forward and pressed his cock against my tender, pulsing slit.

We’d had to be quiet for months with a little one in the house, and though my parents had offered to keep Sierra overnight a few times, she hadn’t wanted to stay with them but preferred her new room instead.

“I need it hard. Make me scream?” I wiggled my ass against him, pushing myself back on his cock. He gripped my ass and thrust hard and deep, slapping my ass as he pounded me, my breasts banging against the table, right at the head of the table where no other man would ever sit.

He kept at it, relentlessly pounding me through two more orgasms. He reached around and rubbed my clit, holding me tight against him as he whispered in my ear. “I’m going to fill you up so deep. Tell me you want it, baby.”

“I want it,” I cried out, the emotion and passion of the moment stealing my breath.

He thrust a few more times, crying out my name. Once he’d spilled inside of me, he kissed my shoulder and spun me around. “That was so hot I’m so glad we had time alone.”

I righted my clothes and felt like such a naughty girl when I saw my lipstick on the table where my mouth had been pressed to it. I’d leave it there hopefully for him to find the next time he held a meeting, along with the clear indication of my handprints.

“I’ve needed it. I love our daughter, but I need to be loud at times.”

“Maybe we’ll go away together soon, just the two of us.” He kissed me and took my arm, leading me out of the room and to the elevator.

“I’d like that, but for now I guess we should get to dinner. If you’re done here?” I smiled and straightened my lipstick in my reflection of the metal doors.

“I’m never done with you.” He winked.

We made it to Missy’s house on time, and I was surprised to see my parents had beaten us there with Sierra. “Mama! Daddy!” Sierra ran from the front steps and dove into her father’s arms. She was a daddy’s girl all the way, and I loved to watch the two of them together.

We went inside, and I was happy to see Greyson had accepted his invitation and Katrina was there as well, which was a little suspicious. “I thought you’d like to have your friends and family here for the special occasion.

“Of course. It was so sweet of Missy to host.” His sister had gone above and beyond, and with the renovations going on at our place, she’d agreed to have our friends and family at her house to make for one huge DeVant celebration.

Dinner was served an hour after our arrival, and though I tried to help Missy set the table, no one would let me lift a finger. “I feel like I should be doing something.”

“You are. You’re keeping me company.” David gave me a little smirk, and I had the sneaking suspicion that he was up to something.

After we were served, Sierra asked us all to say what we were thankful for.

Greyson, who’d recently gotten back from his paid vacation was thankful he’d had a little time off from holding David’s hand. Katrina, who’d finally left the diner to open up her own cafe, was thankful for the friendly investors. Blaine, who’d gone through a miraculous recovery from drugs and alcohol, was thankful to have a full year of sobriety under his belt and his sister and her family back in his life.

We went around the room, enjoying our dinner as we shared. I was thankful for my wonderful family, and being able to spend more time at home with Sierra since my boss was the most wonderful man in the world, and that’s when it was his turn, and he stood to his feet and cleared his throat.

“A year ago, I really ticked this beautiful lady off. I figured that this year, I better do something really nice and make it up to her.” The others laughed, and my mother patted my hand across Sierra who sat between us.

“So, I’d like to take this time, in front of our family and friends to ask her a very important question.” He paused and reached into his jacket pocket where he pulled out a small, Tiffany blue box. The ladies around the table all made a sound, and the men chuckled. “I let this one get away from me years ago. It was the biggest regret of my life. I knew that if I ever found her, I’d never let that happen again. Now, I’d planned on asking her several times, but it just never was the right time, and I don’t know if this is the right time or not either, but I just don’t think I could wait for a more special time than here today in front of all the people we care about.”

He turned to me and dropped to one knee. “Allison, you’re the only woman for me. I’ve loved you since you were a gangly girl with a Kool-Aid mustache and more elbows and knees than anyone should have. You’ve given me more in the last year than I ever thought I’d have. A daughter, a home, a family of my own. Would you do me the honor of being my wife and making me the happiest man alive?”

The room fell quiet as I wiped my tears and tried to catch my breath.

“Say yes, Mama,” Sierra whispered next to me.

The other’s laughed as I pressed myself against him, giving him my answer. “Yes!”

The room erupted with cheers and laughter and after another moment of congratulations and polishing off another glass of wine, we slipped out onto the heated patio, and he pulled me into his arms. “Are you happy?”

“Of course, I am. It took you long enough.” I kissed his mouth, letting my lips linger on his slow and languidly.

“Yeah, I know. It’s been a hell of a year, hasn’t it?”

“Yes. I hope things settle down next year. With work and everything.”

“They will.” He nodded across the room at Greyson who walked past the door with Katrina who seemed to have him locked into a deep conversation. “Careful what you wish for. I’ll be around a lot more.

“What do you mean?”

“I’m giving the CEO position to Greyson after the new year. I’ll stay on the board of course, and I’ll still have ownership, but it’s time to give him what my father never would. He’s earned it.”

“Does he know?” Looking across the room at Greyson, he seemed oblivious.

“Not a clue. I didn’t want anything to eclipse our proposal.” He kissed the tip of my nose and smiled. “You okay with calling me Mister Bigstuff even if I’m not in charge anymore?”

I laughed. “You’re always in charge with me.” I pressed my hips forward. “And you’re big enough that I’ll call you anything you want if you let me pet him.”

His turned to laugh. “Are you asking me that, woman? I’m yours forever, Allie. Touch, tug, take anything you want, baby. Anything.”

“I just want you.” I molded myself against his strong chest as my heart swelled with a love I knew wouldn’t quit.

“You got me. Forever.” He pulled me close, and we shared a tender kiss. The day was perfect with family and friends, and memories that we’d never forget.

One Year Later

Christmas Novella

Allison

The scent of David’s cologne filled my nose as he leaned over and kissed me awake. “I love you.”

“Where are you going?”

“I’m going to work.” He shrugged and looked at me like I was crazy. It was Wednesday after all, and going to work was something he’d done every day despite the fact that he’d been promising for weeks that he would step down and let Greyson take over.

“I get that, but why? I thought you were going to talk to Greyson on Monday?” He’d promised he was going to talk to him three Mondays ago, but it had never happened.

“It’s a little harder than I thought to let go, okay. Besides, we have some huge clients coming up for the Super Bowl. If I don’t get those ideas lined up, I’m scared I’ll be dumping too much in his lap.”

I sat up and pulled the covers up over my breasts. “You’re always saying that he does the majority of the work and has held your hand each step of the way. I’m sure he can handle it.”

He let out a long sigh. “There are certain clients who want to deal with a DeVant directly. I can’t help it, baby, it’s just how it is. I think the summer might be a better time.” He shoved his hands into his pockets and looked down at me with an apologetic smile. “Don’t be like this. You’ll make me feel guilty for working.”

I let out a long breath and knew I didn’t want to do that. God forbid if the man was unhappy for a moment. “Okay. Fine. The summer.” I reached out, dropping the covers and exposing myself to him. “Come back to bed for a while?”

“Baby, I can’t. I’ll make it up to you later, though. How about we fool around later tonight. I’ll give you my entire evening.” He leaned in and kissed me hard on the mouth and as he pulled away, he cupped my breasts. “You look so beautiful and tempting.” He gave me a sexy growl and whispered against our kiss. “Tonight.” With that, he hurried away, and I was left knowing better than to believe him.

We’d been so busy with Sierra, renovating the house— while we were living in it, and between David’s job, my investing in Katrina’s dreams along with Greyson, who’d always wanted to own a fancy café, we didn’t have much time left for intimacy. Our sex life had been reduced to lazy ten-minute fucks before work, and those were always followed by a mad rush out the door if I could manage to wake up in time.

I pulled on a robe and walked downstairs and to the kitchen where the contractors had left their tools scattered about. I’d have to be dressed and have Sierra ready for school in another half hour, but first, I would enjoy a sip of coffee and look to see the quality of the work that was being done.

I’d hoped to have my home fixed before the holidays, but then when that didn’t happen, I’d begged by the end of the year. David was doing his best to rush them, but they were in no hurry, and money could only speed up so many processes for the job to be done right.

I was startled as someone came around the corner and bumped into me. “I’m so sorry, Mrs. DeVant.” Ethan, our handsome, young contractor was about an hour earlier than usual.

“It’s okay, Ethan. I wasn’t expecting you, is all.” I’d have put on a little more than a robe. Like maybe some panties at least and pants.

He scratched his short-cropped beard and looked down to the floor as if he knew I was nearly indecent. “Your husband greeted me outside and told me it was okay to come in.”

“Of course. Do what you need to do, don’t mind me.” I carried my coffee upstairs and went to get my shower so I could get Sierra ready for school and then myself ready for the day ahead.

Once I had Sierra to school, I drove back home and retreated to my room for another day alone going over designs for the café. I missed David and had enjoyed being his assistant. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to work, but David thought that with us living together, and with Sierra changing schools and the house undergoing such a change, I’d do better staying home. I had to agree, but I missed the sex and that little bit of time at the office had made me feel so much closer to him.

At home, I had to compete with my daughter, and though I didn’t want to be resentful of her, I was a bit jealous of the attention David gave her. He’d already developed a habit of falling asleep during story time, and I’d had many nights alone in the room after pulling a blanket over him and Sierra.

I’d thought with my parents next door, we’d have unlimited resources when it came to needing a night alone, but instead, Sierra preferred her own bed, and David wasn’t one to argue. He’d let her come home any time day or night. All she had to do to get her way was bat those little lashes, and her daddy would give her exactly what she wanted.

I understood that he’d missed out, but he’d also missed out on time with me for the past six years too, and I wanted some of his attention.

I felt a warmth of desire spread through me as I remembered the two of us on Thanksgiving Day. We’d stopped by the office, unbeknownst to me to get my engagement ring. That wasn’t all he’d decided to give me that day. He’d taken me right across the boardroom table and fucked me good and hard just like I’d wanted.

He’d been giving me plenty of affection, and that was sweet, but sometimes I wasn’t sure if he thought I was his little girl too. He’d gotten so gentle and protective it was like he’d forgotten how to be kinky and sexy with me.

We’d finally agreed, after a long reconsideration, that I’d go off my pills and that had been the first day we’d really tried to get me pregnant. I ached thinking of him, so powerful over me, his strong body pumping hard into me and his thick cock buried deep to fill me up. I felt my nipples grow hard, pebbling beneath my lacy bra. I brought my hand to my chest and was thinking about stealing a quick moment to relieve myself of the urges when Ethan walked into my doorway. “Mrs. DeVant?” I jerked my hand from my lap, and his eyes widened.

“It’s Ms. Beall actually.” I’d taken my maiden name back for the moment, and even Sierra had lost the name Simon when my ex was paid to leave us alone.

“Yes, Ma’am. I’m sorry, but I called up to you, and you didn’t answer.”

“It’s no bother. Can I help you?”

“Yes, Ma’am. We’re making another run for supplies, and your husband said you’d have a check ready.”

“Of course.”

“Oh, I guess he’s not your husband.” His eyes lingered on me a little longer than I felt comfortable and as I flushed, he smiled as if he liked having an effect on me.

I squared my shoulders. “He’s my husband in every sense of the word, save a license. I haven’t set a date for the wedding, but it’s happening.” I didn’t know why I felt the need to explain myself, but Ethan smiled and looked me up and down.

“He’s a lucky man.” He smiled and took the check, and I shook off the awkward feeling as he disappeared out the door and his footsteps sounded on the stairs.

I was just about to gather my wits when Katrina’s voice called from up the hall. “You better be decent in there, my friend.” She rounded the corner and stopped in the doorway.

“Who was that hot guy coming down the stairs?”

“Our contractor. He needed more money.”

“Wow, I’m surprised David leaves you alone with that guy.” She fanned herself and dropped her bag at the foot of my bed and climbed up to sit with me.

“You have seen David, haven’t you? I think I’ve done better than the contractor.” David was gorgeous with dark brown hair, smoldering blue eyes, and the sexiest body that he’d covered with tattoos in the military. He was incarnate, right down to his kinky nipple rings, and thick cock between his legs.

“Yeah, I’ve seen. I want your life, remember?” She let out a long sigh.

“You’ll get it soon enough with this new career path. I still can’t believe Greyson and I are involved. Dragging him on board was a win/win.”

“Yeah. He’s been really great, but he’s no help with the interior decorating part. I thought with his snazzy fashion sense he’d be a shoe-in for ideas, but that’s not the case.”

“Yeah, don’t let the crazy socks and fitted suits fool you. But you know who you should call; Blaine.”

“Blaine?” Her eyes lit with surprise. “Blaine as in Blaine DeVant?”

“The one and only. He’s an artist, and his work would look phenomenal in the café. I think it’s just the edgy, artsy style you’re going for. And it’s classy.” Blaine would also love the exposure. He’d really focused on art and turned his life around.

“That sounds great. I’ll give him a call.” She gave me a sideward glance. “Is he single by any chance? Straight?”

A laugh erupted from my chest. “He’s both.”

***

David

“I’d like something with a talking cat. Cats are huge, right? At least that’s what I’ve heard. Then if we could make something wild happen, like have some old guy playing the tuba and then shoot the cat off his roof with a rocket or something, that would be fucking lit, man.” Dax Scott had made his millions developing apps, and in his latest venture, he’d decided to go hard and heavy with a Super Bowl spot.

The kid was nineteen years old with more neck tattoos than neck and enough piercings to magnetize him to a wall, not that there was anything wrong with that. His hot pink mohawk had proven to be a distraction for Greyson who hadn’t stopped staring at it since we’d entered the boardroom an hour ago.

It was time for me to reason with him. “Might I recommend we come up with a few ideas, using some of your concepts and we’ll see what works best.” I tapped my pen on the desk and wished like hell the meeting would end.

Greyson cleared his throat. “Yeah, right now I think we’re working with a bit too much. The everything and the kitchen sink approach went out a few years ago, and now we’re finding it’s best to keep it simple. We can still do the crazy outrageous in your face, but focusing on one punchline instead of thirty will make a bigger impact.”

“Considering you’re working with one of the shorter spots, I’d agree with Greyson.”

Dax grimaced. “I want a cat, and the old man, and some explosions. Make it happen.” The guy flashed his smile which spelled out DAX across his gold front teeth.

After saying our goodbyes, the kid and his posse left the boardroom. I closed my eyes and tried to relax.

Greyson leaned back in his chair. “Can you believe that guy? He’s got more money than sense, that one.”

“I’m sure someone has said that about me at least once, so I’ll keep my opinions to myself, but having said that, I totally agree.”

Greyson’s laugh stopped abruptly, and I looked over to see him staring at the table in front of him at a strange angle. “Is that a lip print? Hands?” He tilted his head as my eyes widened knowing exactly what he was seeing.

I leaned back, seeing the clear indication of my wife’s handprints where I’d had her tits down on the boardroom table. There were ass prints on the edge and her lipstick where she’d been face down.

“Damn, looks like someone went ass up over the table.” He looked over and belted a laugh. “You’ve got no poker face, man.”

“What?”

“All I want to know is that it was Allison, and you’re not banging some fucking intern.”

“It was Thanksgiving, and remind me to fire the cleaning staff.”

“In all fairness, this room wasn’t used much in the past few weeks. Well, for its intended purposes. I guess I know why you two were late for dinner. Didn’t your text say you were just stopping by here to get her ring?”

“Yes, and I did. But we haven’t had much time alone lately. I’m going to be in trouble if I don’t start giving her some private time, but it’s so hard with Sierra needing my attention. I’ve got to make up for lost time, you know?” Allison had been wonderful about giving me and Sierra space, but since we’d decided to try and have another baby, she’d been reminding me constantly that we don’t get enough time together. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to spend time with my wife, the truth was, I craved it, but I felt like there wasn’t enough of me to go around and not enough hours in the day.

“Don’t let the embers die, man. You’ll regret it.”

“Yeah, not likely. We’re trying to make another baby.”

He glanced back down at the desk. “Looks like you’re well on your way. When’s the wedding date?”

“See, that’s another rub. I’ve asked her to pick the date, and she’s yet to give me one. I don’t know what she’s waiting for. I proposed hoping to get the ball rolling. I hated her changing her name back to Beall, and I can’t wait to make her a DeVant. She doesn’t even have the same name as her daughter.”

“Wow, that’s weird. I’d feel left out.”

“Left out? I don’t make her feel left out.” Did I? I had been really focused on my daughter, and since moving back to my childhood home, which I’d affectionately named DeVant House, I’d given her more than her fair share of attention.

I was tired of talking about me and Allison. “So, what’s going on with you and Katrina?”

“Katrina?” He made a face as if he had no idea what I was talking about.

“Don’t give me that look. You know exactly what I mean. You spent the entire time at Missy’s Thanksgiving dinner talking to her, and I know you’ve talked on the phone a few times.”

“She’s my business partner, is all. Thanks to your soon-to-be wife and her, they talked me into a pretty sound investment. I just want to make sure things are going smoothly.”

“Yeah, smooth is a word I’d use. I’m sure you’re putting some moves on her. Maybe these are her handprints?”

He gave me a sly grin. “Nah, ass prints would be more my style. I like to look them in the eyes, so they know who owns that pussy.”

“So, you have owned it?” I folded my arms and gave him a hard look.

He chuckled. “No, not hardly. I’m just saying that’s more my style.” He shrugged. “Don’t get me wrong; she’s a gorgeous woman. I’ve always been partial to redheads with attitude, and I don’t even mind her crazy personality, but I’m not sure I can mix business and pleasure. I should have met her before I signed my life over to the café, but I think I made the smarter investment.”

“Well, it’s probably for the best. She’s a bit too much like you.”

“Like me?”

“Yeah. From what Allison’s told me, she’s just as crazy.”

“You say that like it’s a bad thing.” He got up from the table and leaned over to wipe the lipstick stain onto his finger. He studied it a moment.

“What the hell are you doing?”

“Making sure it’s Allison’s shade.”

“You know me better.”

“I do, but it’s fun to bust your balls. I mean, if anyone strays in these situations, it’s the neglected wife, right?” Allison would never, and I had just about had enough of Greyson’s ribbing. He gave me a nudge. “You know I’m kidding, man. Damn.”

I looked down to see my hand was balled into a fist. “Call the cleaning crew. Tell them the boardroom needs attention.” I walked out and went down the hall to my office. There wasn’t but a few minutes left in my day and I walked over to the window where the sun was going down on the horizon.

I let out a deep breath as I thought about my father. He’d wanted me to work like he had, until the day I died, right there in that office, with the same view and the same old desk. But I knew it wasn’t for me. We weren’t the same person. While he’d been inclined to leave his daughter to raise his family, I wanted to spend all the time I could with my daughter and Allison too. My little family was going to be my main purpose, and while I owed my father a debt of gratitude for making it all possible, I shouldn’t have to live to please a dead man.

As the sun dipped down below the horizon, I gathered my things and headed home to be with my girls. I had a promise to keep with Allison, and I’d show her just how much I loved her and how important she was in my life. With any luck, we’d make a baby. I’d missed out on so much of Sierra’s childhood that I wanted that experience, and even though I loved my little girl, I really wanted a son to carry on my family name.

***

Allison

Waking up with a cock in my ass crack might have been David’s way of saying he was sorry, but after being jilted the night before, he was going to have to do a whole lot more to convince me. I played like I was asleep and shifted away from him.

“Hey, wake up, sleepy head.” He kissed my ear, and I opened one eye and glared over my shoulder.

“So nice of you to finally come to bed.” He’d fallen asleep during Sierra’s bedtime story, and it wasn’t the first time it had happened. I had gone in and covered them both up. “You know, you’re supposed to be tucking her in, not me tucking you both in.”

“Sorry. Sierra loves her bedtime stories, and I’m not able to tell her no.”

I moved to the edge of the bed, letting the covers fall away from my naked body, and sat up to swing my feet around to the floor. “It’s fine. I understand. You want to be a good father, even if it makes you a lousy fiancé.” I pulled my robe on and headed to the bathroom.

“Ouch,” he called to me. I stopped in the doorway.

I regretted my words as soon as they fell from my lips. “Sorry. I understand, really. You’re making up for lost time; I get it. I just wish you’d stop losing time with me to do it.” Sierra had gotten more time than I had since we’d moved in together, and even before then.

I shut the door and took a minute to collect myself, washing my face, brushing my teeth. It wasn’t that I wanted to fight, I really didn’t, and it wasn’t that I wanted him to stop giving Sierra time, but I wished he’d give me a bit more attention and not the watered down syrupy affection that felt half-hearted and often rushed. I needed to feel alive. I needed to be taken in his arms like I was his water in the desert; his last breath of air.

When I came out he was still lying in bed, now totally naked, the thin sheet barely covering his hips and doing nothing to hide the bulky erection beneath it. My body warmed in response, heat licking my core and causing a pulse between my legs.

His eyes bore into mine. “Are we going to fuck or fight?” I walked back to the bed, and he sat up and took my hand to pull me down with him, but I resisted. He gave a sound of frustration and gripped my hand tighter. “I’m sorry, baby. I meant to come back, and I guess I was just too tired.”

“You need to learn to tell her no. You’re only going to make me look like the bad guy if you don’t learn how to say that word.” His soulful eyes were so hard to resist, and I didn’t want to for much longer, but I had things on my heart I needed to say.

“I know, baby. Come here and let me make it up to you.” He pulled me close, and this time I let him. I got on my knees next to him, and he pulled me down to meet his lips.

His tongue slipped between my lips and mingled with mine, but I wasn’t about to let him keep things tender and sweet. I gripped his hair and kissed him harder, demanding he give me as good as he would get.

His eyes flashed, and a devilish grin spread across his face. “You want to get rough, baby?” He rolled me over so fast that I lost my breath and he kissed me hard before I could catch it. His cock pressed hard against me, and his hands moved the covers from between us and nudged my legs wide. “Spread your legs for me.” He rutted against me, his cock head parting my folds as his hips worked to find my center.

I turned and kissed his ear. “Mm. That’s right, baby. Fuck me.” His cock thrust hard, burying deep into my walls and he fell into a steady rhythm as I moaned, digging my nails into the thick flesh of his back. I ground upward, and he hitched up my legs, and I wrapped them around his waist.

He gripped my ass, tilting my hips and hitting my spot until my pleasure reached its climax. My tight channel clenched around his cock, milking him so hard that it was only seconds later he grunted against my flesh like a beast and pumped his hot seed deep inside of me. He collapsed on me, kissing me as I licked the salt from his neck and ran my fingers through his hair.

He turned and met my eyes. “Do you forgive me?” His cock twitched inside of me as if daring me to say no.

I gave him a sly smile of my own. “Yes. For now. But I want more, David. I need more of this. We’re never going to make a baby if we don’t.”

“Good enough.” He slapped my ass. “I’ll do better, I promise.”

“No promises. I want to see results.”

He let out a growling moan. “You know what I want? For my fiancé to set a date.” He gave me a sidelong look. “Have you even thought about it?”

“I’ll come up with a date when you have time to marry me.” I gave him a pouty smile, and he gave me a quick peck. We were playful, but I knew he understood there was truth in my words.

“I can’t make the time I if I don’t have a date.”

“You were supposed to be making time by handing Greyson the keys to the kingdom remember? But now you want to put that off. Maybe I won’t set a date until it’s done.” I gave a little shrug, and he gave me a less amused look and pushed his semi-hard cock deeper.

“Is that right? So, you won’t marry me until it’s done? I need you to give me time to do it right. A little incentive would be nice.” He brushed his fingers through my hair as a phone rang on our bedside table.

“That’s mine,” I said, as he reached over and grabbed it.

He glared at the screen. “Yeah, but it’s my brother, so…” He gave me a wide smile and answered the phone, pulling his cock free in the process.

“Hey, brother.” He paused a minute and then let out a sigh. He held the phone away and brought it to his chest. “Is there something I should know? Am I being traded for a different DeVant? Are you upgrading?” He handed me the phone. “He really is calling for you.”

“You know better. You’re my favorite DeVant.” I put the phone to my ear as Blaine made a gagging sound.

“Did I interrupt pillow talk?” From the sound of his voice, I could imagine his lip was curled, and he was making a face like he’d eaten something sour.

“Maybe.” I wished I could see him squirm. I’d always loved to tease him and thought of Blaine as a little brother, even when we were kids and hoped that one day David would be mine and I’d be a part of their family.

David got up, and the shower went on as his brother continued.

“I just wanted to thank you for having Katrina call. Having my art in the café will be a great opportunity.” He’d been doing so much to better himself, and I hoped this was a way we could show our support.

“I hoped you’d like the idea.”

“I love it. I’d like to talk to you and Katrina today and go over a few ideas. Could I coordinate with you about the time? I’ve got a busy schedule.”

“Sure. I’d love to get together.”

After a few more minutes of talking, we said our goodbyes. I hung up the phone and was excited about the plans. The sooner we got the finishing touches on the café, we could go through inspections and get her open.

David came out in a towel, the water still beading on his back as he went to his closet. “So, did you and Blaine work something out?”

“Yes, as a matter of fact, we have a date later today.” I gave him a wink, and he gave me a lazy grin.

“Oh, I see. You can make dates with him, but I have to quit my job first.”

“Actually, I gave him a job.”

That earned a narrow stare as he slipped on his shirt. “You hired my brother? For what exactly?”

“What he does best. We have a café that needs art, and he’s an artist. It seemed like a no-brainer.”

“That’s a great idea.” He crossed the room and sat beside me. “I love you.”

“I love you, Mr. DeVant.”

“Mhm. I’d love for you to be Mrs. DeVant even more.”

“Then you know what you have to do.” I leaned in and kissed his lips, and I wanted so badly to pull him down with me and worship his body another hour or two before he carried on with his day, but I had to get our daughter to school, and he had a company to run.

***

David

I had to admit that the days when I got laid before work put me in a much better mood than usual. I knew I needed to rethink the timing of letting Greyson take over, but it was going to happen sooner or later, and I just needed Allison’s support for letting me decide when. I couldn’t bring myself to just dump it on him, and I didn’t think my father would approve of such a move either, especially at this time of the year.

Greyson came in to grab his usual cup of coffee and was so busy texting that he didn’t have time to say hello. I watched him and laughed when he sat down with me like usual and proceeded to ignore me for his device.

“Good morning to you too, friend.”

“Oh, sorry, man. I’m not great at multitasking and texting. I’m not really great at texting. I’m always inadvertently typing something inappropriate thanks to fucking auto-correct and fat fingers.”

“Who is getting all of your attention? Is it a girl?”

“Yeah. If you have to know, it’s Katrina. And before you go making any cheeky remarks, no; we’re not sexting.”

“I wasn’t going to say a word. But if it gets to the point your sending dick pics, I’m going to make you marry her.”

“Relax, I’m not a total fucking sleaze, man. Innuendo at best.” He gave me a wink and then balanced the phone on his knee as he sipped his coffee.

The phone rang, and it was still a bit early for business, but I answered it anyway. “David DeVant.”

“Hello, Mr. DeVant. This is Ms. Caine from Oaks Academy.”

My heart stopped thinking there was a problem and what was worse, I’d have to call and tell Allison. “Yes, ma’am. What seems to be the trouble?”

“Oh, there’s no trouble. Sierra’s doing wonderfully. In fact, she’s trying out today for a part in the Christmas pageant, but I’m afraid I’ve hit a snag, and while it’s the last thing I wanted to spend my morning doing, I’m afraid I’m calling to see if you might help us out with a little financial issue.”

It wasn’t every day that a school called asking for money and especially by reaching out to me directly. “What kind of a financial issue?” Greyson’s head popped up from his coffee, and I suddenly had his full attention.

“It seems the money I’m usually allowed to put on the Christmas pageant has been cut. I’ve got enough to pay the deposit for the venue, and we have a few costumes and items that we can reuse from previous years, but I’m afraid I’ll not have enough for all the props we’ll need to really make the pageant the success it’s been in years past.”

“I see. So, how much money are we talking about?” I knew what was a lot of money to some, wasn’t but a drop in the bucket for me, but I needed to always present myself like it mattered.

“Well last year our total spending was just under three grand, and that was after we bought refreshments and paid the rent on the stage. My budget is less than a thousand this year.”

“I’ll send you over a check for five thousand dollars, Mr. Caine, but I’d like for you to take what’s left and see it goes to a worthy cause.”

“Oh yes, Sir. The show is free for our parents and friends, and the last night of the show we ask for a charitable donation. I’ll see to it that what’s left goes into the till.” Her voice was so full of joy that I knew the amount of my check was only going to get bigger. “Thank you so much.”

“Glad I can help. You know, Sierra really loves her new school. I’m appreciative of all you do. Have a Merry Christmas.”

“Same to you, Mr. DeVant.” She hung up the phone, and I looked up to see Greyson shaking his head.

“Aren’t you just the original Santa Claus.”

“Yeah, if Sierra gets a part, you’re getting a ticket.”

“Lucky me,” he said and rolled his eyes until I cleared my throat. “I mean, I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

“And you’ll bring your checkbook. It’s for charity, after all. Perhaps, you could even bring a date.” I laughed, and he shook his head.

“You don’t give up do you?”

“Not when it bugs the shit out of you, no.” I belted a laugh when he shot me the finger.

“Did you ever get the team to look at the Dax Scott account?” He was supposed to put the group on it, and each was going to come back at us with an idea.

“Yes, and we’re spending the day looking at their concepts. I can’t wait to see what they come up with.” He sounded really enthused and sincere, much more so than my current mood.

“You love this job, don’t you?”

“Yeah, I really do. The creative part is always a rush, and I love making a deal.” He spoke with conviction and with a sense of pride for what my father built as I had never had.

“You really are the son my father always wanted, aren’t you?” And one day I’d give him the place he deserved.

He laughed, it was something he’d always teased me about. “I was a pretty good substitute, but you boys always had his heart. Some days, he’d talk and talk about you trying to get me to tell him things. He really grilled me when you enlisted. Damn, I thought he was going to pop a vein with stress. Remember that one on his forehead?

“Yeah, And the way he’d turn red.”

“Like he was going to fucking explode. Used to scare the hell out of me. I’ve never seen anyone so red, the devil maybe.” We shared a laugh.

“He was a devil alright.” I really missed my father, and it was good to have someone to talk to who knew him as I did. Missy and Blaine got too damned emotional, each on different ends of the spectrum, and it was then that I realized, why I was having a hard time letting go. At work, where my father loved to be, I felt closer to him than ever.

We finished up our day and sat with the team who showed us some really interesting and funny takes on Dax Scott’s idea. And by the time we were done, I had a few that were solid enough to present to him.

I headed home, eager to see my girls. My plan was to tuck Sierra in early and spend the night with my wife.

I found them both in our deconstructed kitchen and kissed them hello. Sierra was busy playing with Mystery, so when I got to Allison, I whispered softly in her ear. “I’ve wanted you all day. You owe me another round or two.”

“Sorry, baby. I asked Blaine and Katrina to come over. He had a last-minute meeting he couldn’t miss and called to cancel, but I thought there was no reason being so formal. We’re family and Katrina is my best friend. We can make it a casual thing. I thought we could eat take out on the patio since the house is such a mess.”

I pulled her in for a kiss and spoke softly, so Sierra didn’t hear. “Okay, Ms. Pouty Pants. But when you’re crying for attention and getting all sassy with me, I’m going to remind you of this night and how it was your fault we didn’t get our alone time.”

“Well, it’s not like I expected anything to happen.”

“Ouch, woman. You’re going to earn a spanking with that mouth.” I gripped her ass and made love to her mouth until Sierra screamed across the room. I turned to see she’d tripped over a piece of trim that the workers had left on the floor.

There was a trail of blood down her leg, and I ran over to scoop her up and take a look. It was a superficial cut and mostly scraped the skin, but my blood was boiling for their negligence. I’d be glad when they finally finished, and we could have our house back.

“I swear, those men.” I tried to hold my tongue as I brought Sierra to the counter and Allison was quick to get a cold rag and some bandages. “Let Daddy clean it.” Sierra’s cheeks were wet with fat tears, and I realized it was the first time she’d had an accident on my watch. I felt like such a damned failure and so helpless.

“It’ll be okay, Papa Bear. She’s going to be fine.” Allison tried to calm me down, but our kid was bleeding. I didn’t know how she kept her composure when all I wanted to do was grab that piece of trim and beat that pretty boy contractor over the head with it.

“You’re so much better at this than me.”

“You’re doing fine, too. I’ve just had more practice, and it’s not the first time I’ve seen her bleed. But I do know that if you overreact, it’s only going to make it worse.”

“I know that, but damn.” I held Sierra tight against me and rocked her as she cried. “It’s okay, angel baby. Daddy’s sweet girl.”

As her sobs got louder my need to lash outgrew. “I don’t want her in this room anymore. Not until this work is done. And I’m saying something to this GD crew! They need to have their stuff out of the way. There’s a child living here.”

“What’s a GD crew, daddy.” Sierra’s little hand reached out and stroked my beard.

Allison pulled her lips in tight and tried not to laugh as I stuttered to explain.

“It’s the kind of crew that these people are.”

Thankfully, I was saved by the ringing of the doorbell.

***

Allison

I opened the door for Blaine as David carried Sierra out to the sofa and held her in his lap.

Blaine came in, looking as sexy as ever in jeans and his signature white tee. He didn’t get too dressed up, but he didn’t need to. He could wear anything and still be as handsome as his brother, though the two were much different in their builds.

Blaine was a tad smaller, still filling out from his drug days when he’d gotten too thin, but the slight bulk of muscles showed beneath his tee, and his arms were more defined than usual.

“Looking good, baby brother. I see you’ve got Allison’s attention.” David laughed and gave me a sideward look.

“What? I can’t notice how nice my little brother-to-be looks? You’ve put on a few pounds, in all the right places.”

Blaine blushed. “Thanks. I’ve been hitting the gym an extra day a week. What’s with my girl? Have you two been mistreating her?” He sat on the couch next to Sierra and his brother and held out his arms. She knew just who to impress and went to him. She curled up against him and sniffled, though she’d stopped crying minutes earlier.

“She cut her leg on some of the crap the men left lying around.” David was still pissed, and it showed in the set of his jaw.

Blaine’s eyes narrowed as he looked to see the bandage. “Who do we have to kill?”

“See, I’m not the only one. Allison thinks I’m overreacting.”

“You both are, but it’s adorable.” I walked over to join them. “We’re having take-out if that’s okay?”

“That’s great. Is Katrina coming?” His eyes looked hopeful, and I couldn’t help but wonder if he had a thing for my friend.

“Yes. And since Sierra’s already had her dinner and a rough night, she’s going to go stay the night at my parents so the adults can talk. It’s probably time she goes over.” I looked to David, who usually liked to do the honors, but Sierra spoke up.

“Can Uncle Blaine take me, Daddy? I’m all packed.”

I thought I could actually hear David’s heart breaking and he stuttered to answer. “Fine, I mean, sure if he wants.”

“It’s no trouble.” Blaine shrugged it off and stood up with Sierra holding on tight. “I’m good with my nieces.” He carried her to each of us so we could kiss her goodbye and then he lifted her up to his shoulders.

David gave his brother a dirty look behind his back, and you’d think the man honed in on his girlfriend or something as his eyes followed them all the way out the door.

“Doesn’t feel good, does it? When she chooses someone else over you.”

“No.” He crossed his arms. “When is Katrina coming?”

“Any minute now. She’s always late.” Katrina had done a lot of changing since she’d decided to better her life and go into business for herself with me and Greyson. She’d gotten her wild, red hair tamed and since she didn’t have to wear a diner’s uniform all day, we’d gone shopping for a whole new wardrobe. She was not only my crazy friend, but she had a style that was on the edge of sophistication.

“I think Greyson likes her.”

“What? No way. They’re all wrong for each other. It’s going to take a special man to be with that one. She’s a bit eccentric.”

“Yeah, but so is he.”

“Yes, but they’re too much alike in that way. Katrina needs balance. Trust me; they’re just friends.”

“They spend an awful lot of time texting is all I’m saying.” The doorbell rang and luckily, I didn’t have to continue the argument. Katrina was on the other side, and as I let her in, Blaine was crossing the road to come back to our house.

We made small talk and ordered takeout, and during dinner, which we’d taken out onto the heated patio, Katrina and Blaine flirted and laughed.

Their banter wasn’t lost on David, and he gave me a sideward glance and nodded toward the house. “I’ll grab us some more wine. Baby, will you help me?” He got up and motioned me to the kitchen. “What’s up with your friend? First, she’s texting Greyson, and now she’s hitting on my brother?”

“They’re both hitting on each other, and I think it’s cute. They make a gorgeous couple.”

“I was pulling for her and Greyson is all.” He opened the wine chiller and grabbed a bottle of our favorite.

I shook my head and laughed. He was in such a strange mood, caring about his friend and brother. He was ridiculous. “Yeah, well that would never work out with Greyson. They’re business partners.”

“And my brother is here to talk about going into the business too, remember?” He stopped in front of me and looked down with a frown.

“It’s not the same thing.” I gave him a quick kiss, but when I went to pull away, he pulled me into his arms and kissed me much deeper with more aggression. My entire body responded as the warmth of need blossomed between my legs.

“Let’s not keep them long. I can’t wait to get at you.” He kissed the top of my breasts and gave me a smoldering look.

“We can’t be rude, but we’ll feel them out.” We went back out to the patio to find that Blaine had moved his chair much closer and was leaning closer to my friend. The two stared at each other as if captivated by their conversation and mesmerized by their chemistry. It was so cute that I felt a sting of blush hit my cheeks as I looked at David.

David yawned dramatically. “It’s been a long one. I guess I’m getting old.” He shrugged, and Blaine laughed.

“Yeah, you are.” He turned to Katrina. “Maybe we should go grab a cup of coffee instead and talk a bit more about these designs?”

“I can do you one better,” said Katrina grabbing her bag from the floor. “Let’s go down to the café, and we’ll see what we’re working with.” The two rose from their seats and met eye to eye, close enough to kiss.

“I’d like that.” He put his hand on her back and turned to give us a polite smile. “Thanks for a lovely evening.”

“Yeah, thanks.” Katrina’s eyes were sparkling, and her smile was wide. “I’ll call you, Alli.”

“Sounds good. You two have fun.” They showed themselves out, and David gave me a devilish grin.

“Do you and your brother have some secret code? He was all over that big fake yawn.”

“Who cares, it worked. Besides, we’ve got the entire house to ourselves. A big empty bed upstairs, too.” He took my hand and grabbed the bottle of wine. “Come on, baby. Let’s go have a little fun.”

“No, let’s go have a lot of fun.”

By the time we were upstairs, He’d already managed to undress me, and I’d stripped off his shirt and undone his pants. He kicked them off at the foot of the bed and fell between my legs, his warm mouth closing over my mound as his tongue slipped down to lick and tease my clit. I cried out, the need so intense I couldn’t wait until he filled me up. “Fuck me.” I ground my hips against his face and his hand obliged as two fingers pushed inside my hole to stroke my most tender spot with a come-hither motion. He was ravenous as he feasted and one hand reached up to tug my nipple hard, causing a shot of pleasure to hit my core.

I stroked his hair and moaned, my whole body shaking as my first orgasm broke free, like a dam exploding, and as he rose up, pressing his thick cock against me, his phone rang at his feet.

He reached down to his pants to grab his phone. “Fuck! It’s Sierra.” He answered the phone before I could tell him to ignore it, and sat up and held out my hands.

“Hey baby girl, what’s wrong?” He paced the room, his thick cock bouncing around his hips in a taunting fashion as if telling me I could look and not touch.

“Tell her to go back to bed, David.” He held up a finger.

“Does it, baby? I’m so sorry. Daddy will come get you, and I’ll kiss it better, okay. Don’t cry, baby.”

He reached down and grabbed his pants and gave me an apologetic look. “I’m sorry, but she’s crying.”

“She’s playing you. You’re seriously going to fucking leave me like this?”

He leaned over and kissed me. “You came, didn’t you? We’ll finish as soon as she goes to sleep.”

“I don’t think so.” I got up and went to the bathroom and slammed the door.

He groaned in frustration. “I’ll be right back. Fuck.” I heard his footsteps as he left.

By the time he came home and got Sierra to sleep, I was lying back in bed.

He came over to me and kissed my neck, but I pushed him away and rolled over. “Not going to happen.”

It was the first time I’d ever denied him, and as much as it hurt, he needed to be taught a lesson.

***

David

I felt like a scolded dog for most of next morning, and though I’d known better than to try and make a move on Allison, I’d expected her to at least talk to me.

I arrived at work in a sour mood, and Greyson got the brunt of it. “Are you kidding? The little fucker didn’t like any of our ideas?”

“Not one. He said there wasn’t enough action and he really wants to see the rocket thing he mentioned.”

“Then get one of those guys to do exactly what he wants to show him what a fucking whacked idea it is.” I slammed my fist on the desk and then proceeded to knock over my coffee in the process. “Fuck!”

“What’s crawled up your ass, man? Not getting any at home?”

“Is it that fucking obvious?”

“Seriously? I was just kidding.” He held up his hands defensively. “Want to talk about it?” He got up to get a roll of paper towels we kept in the cabinet of the coffee bar and tossed them to me.

“I fucked up. We finally had a night to ourselves, and Sierra called. She was crying. She’d cut her leg earlier and said it was bothering her.”

“She couldn’t tell her grandmother about it?”

“She called me from her cell phone. I thought she had. Turns out, she hadn’t.”

“You bought her a cell phone?”

“So she can call me when she needs me. You sound just like Allison. She said it was a horrible idea.”

“I don’t understand a seven-year-old having a cell phone. I mean, what’s there to look forward to?”

“She plays games on it; it’s fun. Anyway, that’s not the point. I left Allison hanging and went and brought our daughter home. I told her I’d be right back, but when I was, she told me it wasn’t going to happen. She shut me down.”

“You left her hanging in the middle of fucking, and you expected a different reaction?”

“I expected her to show a little compassion for the situation. It’s the first time Sierra’s had a scratch so sue me if I’m a little protective.”

“You better start giving her attention before she finds someone else who will.”

“Not my Allison. She’d never fucking do that.” I hated him for even putting the thought in my mind, though I knew her better than that. She’d loved me her whole life.

“Did you ever think that Sierra’s playing you?”

“That’s what Allison said. I don’t see it though. She was crying. I can’t just ignore her when she’s crying.”

“What would you have told Blaine when he was a kid?”

“I’d have told him to suck it up and go to bed, but that’s not the same. I can’t tell Sierra to suck it up. I’m her father. If she has a need—

“But Allison is her mother. She’s been her mother a lot longer—

“Which is why she should fucking understand. I’m new to this, and I’ve missed out on half her damned life. I’m trying to catch up.”

“And Sierra knows that. Allison would have told her to talk to her grandmother, and the woman would have taken care of it, and you could have taken care of your wife. You’re spoiling her.”

“Fuck. I love her though. You should have seen her big tears. She had a fucking huge cut on her leg.”

“A cut or a scratch? Because you called it a scratch a minute ago.” He was clearly amused with a shit-eating grin.

Maybe I was exaggerating it a bit. “Fine, it still bled a lot.”

“What are you doing here, man?”

I’d come in because of the Dax Scott account. “I’ve got work to do. I work here.”

“Well, that’s debatable, but what I’m trying to say is, Sierra’s in school, right? Go home and fuck your woman. I’ve got this.” He picked a piece of lint from his shirt and flicked it. He really didn’t need me. But I needed my girl.

“Thanks, man. I think I will.” I gathered my shit and headed down to my car and called her. But Allison didn’t answer her phone.

I tried a few more times on the way and grew more and more frustrated. She hadn’t said she was going anywhere.

I pulled into our drive to see the men at work and Allison’s car in the garage. Thank God, our upstairs offered privacy, because with any luck, and a little forgiveness, I was going to need it.

I walked into the house and heard Allison’s flirty giggle, and though it brought a smile to my face, it faded fast at what I saw next. She was coming down the stairs with Ethan, the contractor who was eye fucking her so hard she had to feel it.

“Thanks so much, Ethan. You’re a lifesaver. That wouldn’t have waited until David got home.” My blood pumped so fast; I would have sworn she’d heard it as she looked up. “David?”

Ethan wasn’t happy to see me, especially when I crossed the room and met him at the foot of the stairs. “What couldn’t wait until I got home?”

Allison’s eyes went wide. “I broke the handle on the faucet in the bathroom. There was water everywhere, so Ethan came up and fixed it.”

Ethan cleared his throat and scrubbed his beard. “Yeah, it’s fine now. I turned off the shut-off valve, and my plumber was here with his tools. We got you all fixed up.”

I deflated a bit and stepped back. “Thanks for helping my wife.”

“Wife? I thought you two weren’t married?” He gave Allison a sly smile, and I’d had enough of his eyes on her.

“What difference does it make? She’s mine either way. And why don’t I go give that crew of yours a talk; because the next time my daughter cuts her fucking leg on a piece of scrap they left lying around, she won’t be the only one bleeding.”

Allison put a hand on my chest as the smile left Ethan’s face, and he walked away.

“Was that necessary?”

“Any reason he knows we’re not married, Alli?” My eyes bore into hers, but she cracked a smile.

“You’re jealous. It’s cute.” She stroked my arm and gave me a kiss on the cheek.

It only caused my voice to soften a little. “Don’t patronize me.”

“You’re serious?” She turned, shaking her head as she went up the stairs.

I followed closely behind. “I want to know how that came up.”

She finally stopped at the top of the stairs and spun around to face me with her hand on her hip like she meant business. “Fine. He called me Mrs. DeVant, and I corrected him. That’s it?” She turned and went into our room, and I followed, slamming the door behind me.

“Why would you feel you had to? Is there some reason you won’t set a date? Are you having second thoughts about being my wife?”

“Why would you think that? I’ve been begging for your attention since we moved in here! Maybe you’re the one with second thoughts?”

“You can’t believe that.” I loved her more than life itself. She’d been my whole life. “It’s ridiculous.”

“Only as ridiculous as you thinking I’d want some flirty contractor. You’re all I’ve ever wanted.” She stepped close and put her arms around my waist and suddenly, I was putty in her hands.

“I knew he was flirting. He’s been eye fucking you every chance he gets.”

Her leg came up between mine, her thigh pressing into my crotch and rubbing against my dick. “He has, but this is the only cock I want.”

The urge to get myself good and deep and mark her as my own had never been stronger.

***

Allison

David being jealous was the hottest thing ever, and if I had known how sexy it would be, I’d have smiled at the contractor weeks ago.

He took his time undressing me, kissing and licking every part of me until my toes were curling with anticipation. I’d only managed to get his shirt off, but he made quick work of his zipper, and I tugged his pants down below his ass, and he did the rest as I stroked his cock, my chilly hands warming quickly against his hot skin.

“You want it rough, still?” He gave me a wicked smile as I nodded, and then he spun me around, and I caught myself against the bed as he stepped up and bit my shoulder softly before he whispered in my ear. “Tell me.”

“I want it rough, David.” He smacked my ass and kissed my neck.

“I’m going to give you just what you want then, and then you’re going to give me exactly what I want.” His voice vibrated in my ear, and he smoothed the chill bumps away with one strong hand as he gripped the back of my neck with the other.

“Yes, Sir.” I giggled, and he slapped my ass hard, causing me to wince. This was just what I needed, him claiming my body, taking charge of the situation and giving me pleasure.

His cock slid into my cheeks, and then he slid it back and forth from front to back along my slit, pressing it hard against my tight back entrance, but never enough to slip inside. He teased me a bit and then slid forward, pressing inside me, just enough to wet his tip.

“You’re fucking wet and ready for it, aren’t you?”

“Yes,” I whispered breathlessly. “I want it so badly.”

“Such a bad girl trying to make me jealous. It made you wet knowing I was, didn’t it?” He tightened his grip a tad on my neck as he thrust hard and buried his cock deeper. “Didn’t it!”

“Yes, you always make me so hot. Fuck me.” I needed his hips rocking; I needed his cock sliding in and out of me, stretching me to my limits.

“Like this?” He slammed his hips forward three times, so hard my breasts slapped together.

He reached around and cupped one, tugging the nipple and pinching it hard. It hit a nerve and sent a sensation all the way to my clit, and I cried out, needing him to continue. “Yes, please.”

“That’s my girl.” He slammed into me again, and I collapsed to my elbows, tilting my ass ever further causing his cock to hit my sweet spot. He let go of my nipple and neck, and his hands found my wrists as he slowly pumped into me.

He pulled my hands behind my back and held both wrists with one of his while he fucked me harder, pounding relentlessly until our bodies clapped, matching the rhythm of my moans until we made a sensual song. My pussy throbbed as he hit my g-spot with each thrust and I felt the pinch of release building.

“I’m going to come.” My voice broke as I orgasmed and turned into a wailing squeal that was probably so loud Ethan could hear it below. That was probably David’s plan, and it only made me hotter.

He didn’t let up and continued just as hard, but reached around to rub my clit and before he could come, he worked me through another one. Sweat broke out on my brow as his cock swelled inside of me and he pulsed deep, soaking my insides.

“God, that was a huge load. I’m going to pound it in a little. It was so good baby.” He thrust hard a few more times and then stilled behind me. “Now, you owe me, remember?”

I collapsed on the bed and rolled over, scissoring my legs together still feeling the tremors of my last release as his come spilled from me, soaking the sheets. “Yes. What do you want from me?”

“First, you’re going to get on your knees and worship this cock a little bit with that mouth of yours.” He leaned over me and kissed my mouth. “Then I’m going to make love to you nice and slow.”

“Mm. I like that.”

“You’re going to love it.” He kissed me hard and then laid back on the bed. “Kneel beside me and suck your taste off my dick.”

I didn’t utter a word. Instead, I smiled as I got to my knees and stroked his cock which was still not quite fully hard again.

“Suck it hard, baby. I want it to grow in that pretty mouth of yours.”

I took the head of his cock into my mouth keeping my eyes on his as he played with my nipples. By the time I relaxed my throat and worked his flesh behind my tonsils, he swelled in my mouth, his cock growing hard as diamond and thumping against the back of my throat. His hand ran through my hair, and he gripped it for a moment and held me down, but then he pulled me off, my mouth gaping and empty as I panted.

“Climb on it.” He patted my side as he encouraged me. “Straddle and ride my dick baby.” He stood it up, and I straddled his lap, centering myself against his head before lowering myself, stretching even wider than before to take in his thick base.

I ground my hips, leaning back so he’d hit the right spot as I worked up a steady rhythm. He caressed my skin; stroking my cheek, thumbing my nipples, and gripping my waist and ass to push me down harder at times.

It felt amazing and just when I had closed my eyes to savor the moment, he brought his arms around me and moved us to the edge of the bed and then picked me up to turn me over. He hovered over me, staying sheathed as he kissed my neck and breasts.

“You still want to give me a baby, don’t you?” His eyes seemed so sad that it made my heart ache.

“Yes, of course.” I didn’t understand why he would think I didn’t want another child. “Where is that coming from?”

“I’m just trying to figure out what’s going on.”

“I just want you home with me; with our family. We’d have more time that way. We’d have more time for everything. For this.” I rolled my hips, and he grinned.

He kissed my lips and pumped his hips as his seed pulsed deep, spilling into my channel.

We lay in our bed holding one another for what seemed like half an hour, and it was nice to have that time.

“Work has been crazy. Our newest client is nuts. He’s a rich kid, real freak. I left Greyson to take care of him.”

“I’m sure he knows how to handle him.”

“Yeah, he does. He knows better than me. I’m going to talk to him soon, baby. I just need a little support and time from you. I’ll lay off about the date too if you want. I just really wanted you to be my wife as soon as possible. I don’t like you being a Beall again. I don’t like you telling flirty contractors you’re not my wife.” He gave me a pouty grin.

“Fine; the next flirty contractor I meet, I’ll let him think we’re married.”

“I’ll hold you to it.” He laughed, but then his phone rang, I gave him a smile and handed him his phone.

“Shit. It’s Missy.” He couldn’t answer being his sister. Getting a call from Missy was like getting a call from his own mother. “Hey, Sis.” His face went pale and then turned an angry shade of red. “Are you fucking kidding? I thought Dad handled this shit?”

“What is it?” I placed my hand on his arm, and he held up a finger still listening to his sister, whose voice was carrying through the phone and sounded distraught.

“I’m on my way, Miss. Don’t do anything okay. I’ll call the lawyer; he’ll give us some advice.” He hung up the phone and held it to his heart.

“Is everything okay?”

He got up and started gathering his clothes. His jaw was set tight, and I could tell that he was angry. If there was a lawyer involved it was serious business. “David! Is she okay?”

“She’s fine. I’ve got to go. I’ll call you later, baby. When I know more.” He got up and pulled on his pants and was gone before I could clean up and walk him to the door.

***

David

My first instinct was to search the city for Kevin Hughes, the man who’d married my sister and cheated on her once before already. My father had threatened the guy once, but I guess now that he was gone, Kevin thought he’d get up to his old tricks. Perhaps he never stopped.

I headed straight for Missy’s house, and she met me at the door with a glass of wine which she turned up. “He’s not here.”

She must have thought I’d come to kick his ass, and I’d have done it too if he’d been home. “You’re going to have to tell me everything that’s happened. Don’t leave shit out; your lawyer is going to ask the same of you.”

“I knew he’s been being weird since Daddy passed away, but I thought things were good, you know? I started getting a bit suspicious eight months ago when he had to work late a few nights. He’d never had to be gone that many nights in a row and it didn’t make sense him suddenly not wanting to commute.”

“Right. Did he say he’d stayed at work, or a hotel?”

“He said he’d slept in his office, which wasn’t a stretch, I mean, he has a couch. But I know he didn’t stay there. His phone lit up with a text a few times here and there, and I’d ask him who it was, and he’d get weird about it. So, I confronted him, and—

Tears filled her eyes again, and she closed them tight, downing the last sip of wine. “He grabbed me. He said I’d do best not to accuse him and I was so scared that I knew I’d never mention it again. Well, it seemed that he took that as his opportunity to start doing whatever he wanted because he didn’t come home two nights later. Last week, I dropped the girls off at a birthday party and went to hire a private detective.”

“You should have told me then. Why didn’t you?”

“You’re so busy, and I knew you had a lot on your mind with the Super Bowl ads and giving up the business to Greyson. Not to mention, you’ve got your own family to worry about.”

“Which you’re a part of. Seriously, Miss. You know I’m going to do whatever is needed to help you and protect you. I can’t believe Dad wanted you to stay with that asshole after the first time.

“The girls were little, they needed their father more than I needed a husband and I thought things would work themselves out. He was good for a while, we reconnected on a deeper level, and I really didn’t think he’d do me this way again.”

“Do you know who it is?”

“Yeah. It’s a different girl from the club. Daddy had gotten the last woman fired, and now this one is a manager there. Kevin’s been going to one of the rentals with her.” She walked to her purse and handed me an envelope. “He’s been getting sloppy.”

I opened it up to find a stack of pictures, and she wasn’t kidding. “There’s no denying this.” One of the pictures showed Kevin balls deep in the woman, who looked to be around Missy’s age but far less attractive.

Missy was a gorgeous woman, and I wasn’t just saying it because she was my sister. She had the prettiest brown eyes, long wavy hair, and a perfect cupid’s bow mouth that made her seem angelic.

“I don’t care if he tried to deny it. I want out. I don’t need this shit, David. I’ve given my whole life to him and the children. I’ve made our home everything it is while he did nothing but take up space and play golf.” Kevin had worked, but only so he didn’t look like he depended on the DeVant fortune to pay his way, which he was. Missy’s trust had bought their home, put the girls into the best school and paid the majority of the bills, while he barely paid for the expensive car he drove. She let out a long breath and met my eyes, hers full of ire. “I want a divorce.”

“You’ll get one, don’t worry. Don’t you cry another tear over that man.”

She laughed. “I’m not crying over that pig, David. I’m crying because it’s going to hurt the girls. Tiffany and Macy adore him for some reason. I don’t want them to hate me. And then he’ll have to have visitation rights; there’s no way around it.”

“You don’t want to keep the girls from him. As much as you think you do right now.”

“I will have to find myself something to do I suppose; for when he has them.”

“Like a hobby?” Missy already had many hobbies, but she shook her head.

“Hell no, I was thinking something a little more tall, dark, and handsome.” She gave me a wink.

“That a girl. Just make sure you’re not doing anything that will look bad to the courts. Wait to date until after the smoke clears. You’ll be glad you did. You don’t want to look like you’re the problem.”

“Oh, don’t worry. I’m a DeVant. I’ll land on my feet.” She wiped her eyes and then got up to pour another drink.

“Have you told Blaine?”

“No. I tried to call earlier, but he didn’t answer. I wanted you to both come.”

“I’ll call him. I think the two of us need to go pay Kevin a visit. Let him know he’s not coming back here with you and the girls and that we’ll have our lawyer be in touch.”

“You don’t have to do that.”

“Yeah, we do. Dad might not be here, but you’ve still got your brothers, and we’re not going to let this asshole think we’re not still a united front. Dad might have let you down by whatever bargain he struck, but Blaine and I will see to it that he knows who’s in control. He probably thinks he can get away with this shit. As for his manager girlfriend. I think the owners will understand the conflict of interest. I can’t exactly be expected to frequent a club that is run by the woman who ruined my sister’s marriage, now can I?”

“You think they’ll let her go?”

“Oh yeah. Who do you think paid for the golf course renovations last year?” I took out my phone and dialed Blaine’s number.

“What’s up, brother.”

“Meet me at the club; it’s family business; urgent.”

“Okay, but I’m with Katrina at the moment.”

“Give her a raincheck; this can’t wait.” I hung up the phone and Missy’s eyes widened.

“He was with a she?”

“Katrina. The two of them met at our house, and I am pretty sure they hooked up. They left together.”

“Our little brother is finally growing up.” She giggled and turned up her drink to gulp it down.

“Lay off the shots. You’ve already started with wine. You’ll end up sick.” I looked around and realized it was well after school had let out. “Where are the girls?”

“At their friend’s house. I wanted the evening to myself.”

“Stay in and get some rest.”

“I love you, brother.” She smiled up at me, and I could tell she was already three sheets to the wind.

I gave her a peck on the forehead and turned to head to the door. “I love you too. It’s all going to be all right.”

I met Blaine at the club a half an hour later. He didn’t look amused. “This had better be good. I haven’t come to this place since the last time Dad made me.”

“I haven’t been here often enough either apparently, but our brother-in-law Kevin, well, he likes it here a lot.”

“What’s this about? What did the asshole do now?”

I handed him the stack of pictures and his lip curled in disgust. “That bastard. I’m going to kill him.”

I clapped my hand on his back. “Don’t worry. He’ll get his, but we’re not going to get ourselves in trouble or do anything to jeopardize our sister or our nieces.”

“Then what are we doing here?”

“Sending a friendly message, and taking out the trash. This girl is a manager here. I don’t know about you, but I like my golf drama free.”

“I feel ya.”

“But first, we see if Kevin’s here. I’ve heard they’ve been using a rental. There are thirty of them, but only one is yellow with a blue door. You want to bet that asshole’s visiting after work?”

“Let’s do this.”

***

Allison

I woke up the next morning and went to Sierra’s room expecting to find David. Instead, I found her curled up and sleeping alone. The last I’d heard from him he’d called to say he’d be late and not to wait up. I had gone to bed and fallen asleep reading a book but thought for sure he’d come home by now.

I couldn’t help but think the worst and wondered if he’d been in some sort of accident or if whatever was going on with Missy was worse than he’d let on. Maybe it was Blaine, and his brother had relapsed. All of the horror stories went through my mind as I tried to call, but got no answer.

I tried Blaine’s number, and it went straight to voicemail. And before I could text Missy, I heard his car pull into the drive.

At least I knew he was alive.

I breathed a sigh of relief and woke Sierra up. “Time to get ready if you still want to go Christmas shopping.”

“I want to buy Daddy something special.” She sat up and tossed back the covers, then she stepped into her slippers and ran to the bathroom.

I heard the front door open, and I shook my head not allowing myself to run after him. I wasn’t going to do that. I was going to carry on with my morning like nothing was bothering me. But that was easier said than done.

“Alli? You guys are up early.” David unbuttoned his shirt and cuffs.

“We’re going to spend the day out.”

“I’ll just shower and come with.”

“No, you can’t.” I wondered how long it would take him to explain.

“Come on, why not?”

“Because your daughter is buying your Christmas gift and it’s a surprise.”

“I’ll go off alone while you guys do that, but I’m not letting you two go off into the city alone this time of year. There’s too much craziness. No way.”

“Whatever.”

“You act like you don’t want me to go at all.”

“I said whatever. I don’t care.”

“Cool, then. We need to talk.”

“I’m sure we do.”

“You’re pissed.”

“You didn’t come home. Last I heard, you were supposed to be late, but I didn’t think we’d wake up and you’d not be here. I was scared to death. I called around and got no answers.”

“I’m sorry, baby. I thought I’d be home before you woke up.” He walked over and pulled me into his arms.”

“Yeah, well you thought wrong.”

“Hey, I don’t want to fight. I’ve spent the night watching my sister’s family fall apart.” He let out a long breath. “She’s getting a divorce. Kevin’s been cheating with the manager down at the club.”

“Where you play golf?” I hoped he wasn’t talking about a nightclub.

“Yeah. Well, she used to be. I’m sure she’d gotten the news by now. Kevin has. Blaine and I approached him last night and told him how shit was going to go down. He didn’t take it well, but finally listened to reason.”

“Why couldn’t you just tell me? You’re so quick to want to make me a DeVant, yet you can’t share that with me?”

“It’s not like that. I didn’t mean to keep it from you; I just wanted more details before I got you upset. I know you want the best for Miss.”

“Yeah, is she okay? I could have gone to her.”

“She’s okay. A bit hung over, but the girls are with friends. She’s going to tell them today that their dad’s not coming home and they’ll have to have arranged visits.”

“I know how hard that can be. I hope she knows she can call me.” A flood of memories from when I had gone through my divorce came rushing back, but then I had thought that Sierra was Doug Simon’s baby. Things would have been an awful lot easier had I known the truth.

“She knows. She told me to tell you not to worry, and that she’ll call you.” He followed me down the hall to our room and took my hand as I walked past him. “Hey.”

“What?” I searched his eyes. I wasn’t angry, but I was hurt he hadn’t thought enough to include me and had me worried.

“I’m sorry, okay. I should have called. I promise it won’t happen again, alright?”

“If you want me to be a DeVant, you’re going to have to start treating me like one. Include me. Stop leaving me out, and at the risk of sounding like a needy person, I’d like a bit more attention.”

“Okay. I promise.” We finished getting ready, and he drove us into the city. We went to our favorite mall, and he gave us a bit of space for when we needed to buy his gift.

While the clerk was busy gift-wrapping our purchase, Sierra turned to me. “Mama, why are you mad at Daddy?” Her question stung my heart.

“I’m not mad at him, honey.” I brushed my hand through her hair, and she pulled it away and held it tight.

“You used to be mad at my other daddy, and I saw how upset you were earlier.” The lady behind the register gave me a strange look, and I thanked her and pulled Sierra away. I didn’t need everyone in the mall knowing our troubles.

I walked her to the nearest bench and waited for David who was going to meet us there in half an hour. “I love your dad, Sierra. I just was a little upset because I want more of his time. That’s all.”

“Are you going to leave him like you did my other dad?” My heart fell to my gut like a stone.

“No, and we talked about that. Doug wasn’t really your father. I think that’s why I never got along with him. Maybe deep down I knew it. Maybe that part of you that was your father was speaking to me, making me know it in my soul.” I let loose a breath and realized this would be the first Christmas without Doug. We’d followed the court orders to keep Doug from being pissed off and suing us the year before, but shortly after that, we’d filed to keep her from him.

“Do you miss Doug?”

She shifted in her seat, and I could tell she was uncomfortable. “He doesn’t even remember me.”

“He does, pumpkin. He’s just living his life. I’m sure he thinks about you at times. Do you want to reach out?” I knew if this were the case, it would break David’s heart, but I breathed a sigh of relief as she scrunched up her nose.

“No way. I used to hate it there with him. He wasn’t nice to you, Mama. So, he wasn’t nice to me either. Even though he tried. I guess I just don’t want you to leave Daddy. I want us all together. But you haven’t even gotten married like you said you would.” I hadn’t realized it was going to affect Sierra so much. It was time to set a date. Perhaps she could help.

“Well, your father wants me to pick a day that I want us to get married. When do you think we should do it?” I’d let her choose and make it easier for myself.

“Today.” Her eyes widened.

I winced. “We can’t today. We have to buy a license, and it takes a bit of time.”

“Christmas?” I couldn’t help but think about her pageant and knew it wasn’t a good time.

“Sierra, you have your pageant.”

“What comes next, Mama? You know, holidays.” She had her heart set on a holiday, and New Year’s wasn’t that bad of an idea.

“New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day. Valentine’s, but that’s not until February.” I thought about David handing over the company. That would be after the Super Bowl, and things would have died down considerably by then. “That would be romantic.”

“Do it then, Mama. We’ll have everything in red and pink.” I imagined myself in a gorgeous lace gown and Katrina in red beside me. Sierra could wear pink.

“We’ll talk to Daddy when we get home.” Sierra let out a little squeal of delight, and then David showed up early, and I waved him over.

“You two look excited,” he said picking up Sierra as he gave me a kiss on the cheek. “Did you get lots of shopping done?”

I patted his gift and gave him a wink. “All done.”

“I can’t wait. I got you two ladies something too.” He flashed me a wink as we headed out, but then I heard a voice calling my name.

“Allison!” I looked up to see Katrina rushing over, with Greyson in her wake. David’s eyes widened, and then he cut me a knowing glance.

“What are you two doing here?” David asked Greyson.

“Doing a bit of shopping like yourself, I’d imagine.”

“Indeed.” The two continued to exchange looks as Katrina ticked off a list of items she’d bought for her mother.

“I can’t believe the sales I’m hitting, and I even got a few things for the café,” she said with a bright smile. “It’s so good running into you guys.”

“Good to see you two as well.” I gave her a big hug and patted Greyson’s back. We said our goodbyes and carried on to the car.

David huffed. “Can you believe that? She was just with my brother last night, and now she’s with Greyson?”

“They’re business partners; they were looking for things to go in the café. You heard her.” I blew it off.

“I just wonder if Greyson even knows about my brother.”

“Maybe you should talk to them both. Find out their intentions for my friend, before she gets hurt.”

“I’m worried about the guys. Your friend is the one who needs to make up her mind.” I let out a long breath and bit my tongue. I didn’t want Sierra to think we were fighting again, but I wasn’t happy that he thought Katrina capable of hurting anyone.

***

David

Sunday the girls got up and were ready early for another day out.

“And why can’t I go this time?” I asked Allison as she brushed her hair.

“You went yesterday, stop acting like you’re being left out.” Allison let out a big yawn. “We’re going to meet up with Missy and the girls for a little girl time.”

“Fine. I’ll just call Greyson for a little boy time.” I didn’t know how awful that sounded until I’d said it.

Allison laughed. “That’s so sweet. You know, if you were to talk to him, I’d probably have a date for you.”

“You have a date, don’t you? Why not tell me?” I couldn’t believe that after all this time she wasn’t going to share yet.

“Not yet. I’m still debating, and I wanted to talk to Missy about something first.”

“Okay, but I’m not sure my sister is going to want to talk weddings at a time like this.”

“I’ll be sensitive, I promise, but I think she’ll have the answer I need.” She turned and called Sierra from her room. “Let’s go, honey.”

“Coming Mama. Sorry, Daddy, no boys allowed today.”

“It’s okay. I’m going to hang with Uncle Greyson.”

“Daddy’s having a boy’s day.” The two of them giggled at me and then left me to my own devices.

I picked up the phone. “Wake up, asshole. We’re spending the day together.”

“What? What if I had plans?” Greyson’s voice was so rough he sounded like he’d gargled acid.

“With who, Katrina? The woman you supposedly have no interest in. Get your ass up and come over.”

“Fine, but give me an hour. I need time for the three Ss.”

“Too much information, my friend. Too much.” The three Ss was man code for shit, shower, and shave. I hung up the phone and got my own ass into the shower and was done by the time my doorbell rang.

“Where the fuck are we going? I’m not hanging out here all day breathing sawdust.” He was stuffy and smelled like a cough drop.

“You’re sick?”

“No, it’s sinuses. I’m not contagious.”

“If I get sick, I’m kicking your ass.”

“Fine, just kick it all the way back to my bed for me, okay? You dragged me out, now what are we going to do?”

“Golf.” I walked to the table behind the sofa and grabbed my keys to the Jeep.

“No way. I didn’t wear my lucky pink pants.”

“Good. We’re staying off the course anyway; driving range only. Besides, I need to scope out a situation. Kevin’s been screwing this chick that worked as a manager. I want to make sure they’re both gone.”

“Fine, but I’m not staying all fucking day. I’m going to freeze my balls off. And I want you to buy lunch. Wait, did you say Kevin? As in your brother-in-law?”

“Yes, Missy is getting a divorce.”

“No shit?” He cracked a sly smile. “You know you’re sister sure is looking good, these days.”

“Don’t even think about it.”

“Come on, why not?”

“For one, you can’t tell me you’re not banging Katrina.”

“Please. I already told you. We’re friends. I mean, I tried, okay. But turns out, she’s already banging your brother. I thought you knew.”

“I did. That’s why I wanted to know what the fuck was up with you. You didn’t want her one minute; then you wanted her the next.”

“Well, she’d actually just turned me down before we met up with you guys in the mall. That’s why I was a bit quiet. I should have known she’d choose a DeVant over me. You guys get all the luck.”

“Come on; your day will come, my friend. I promise. But not with my sister.”

“Why not? Don’t you think I’m good enough?”

“No one is good enough. I never thought Kevin was either for the record. Besides, I have bigger plans for you.”

“Oh yeah?” I headed to the door and waved him along.

Once we were on our way to the driving range, I decided it was finally time to tell him. Allison had finally chosen a date, and I was eager to hear when it was. If I went back to her with the news that I’d officially talked to Greyson, promising him the company, then maybe we could start planning a wedding.

“So, what did you mean you have big plans for me?” Greyson gave me the side eye and then looked ahead to the road.

“My father had it in his head that a DeVant needed to be at the head of the company because our name is on the building. Since his death though, you’re the one who is really keeping things afloat. I’ve decided that I’m going to step back and give it all to you to run.”

“What?” Greyson’s eyes ringed red, and he sat up straighter in his seat. “You mean, you’re quitting?”

“I’ll always have ownership of the company and be on the board of directors along with Blaine and Missy, but I think it’s time I get out of your way. With the promotion, you’ll be able to earn a better salary, and you’ll work right out of your coffee bar.” I laughed, and he reached over and clapped me on the shoulder.

“You’re fucking kidding me, right?”

“No, it’s yours. I’ve known it needed to be that way for a while, and Allison’s known. She’s been pressuring me to retire and stay at home with her, make a family. It’s what I want to do too. I just didn’t want to leave you hanging during the Super Bowl craziness.”

“So, when do you plan on doing this?”

“First of the year. We’ll go ahead and start transitioning. I’ll announce it to the others tomorrow.”

“Thank you, David.”

“No, thank you, brother. You’re an honorary DeVant if I ever knew one, and I can’t think of anyone else worthy to run our company. Dad should have left it to you.”

“Do we still have to go to the driving range?”

“You bet your sweet ass, we do. But not for long. Then we’ll go, and I’ll buy your lunch to celebrate.”

“Would you really kill me if I hit on Missy?” He gave me a sly smile.

“I just gave you my fucking job, man. Now you’re getting greedy.”

“I’m serious. Answer the question.”

“Look, if you want to pursue my sister, you’re going to have to give her time. If you can be respectful of things, and not jump the fucking gun and fuck up her custody battle, I’ll give you my blessing to ask her out. But, when she turns your sorry ass down, I get to laugh at you.”

Greyson held out his hand, and I took it shaking to seal our bargain. “Deal. And when she says yes?”

“Never going to happen, my friend.”

“Don’t be so sure. She’s always liked me.” I was going to have to have a long talk with my sister. “Seriously, and then there was that time when we kissed. She wanted me. I could feel it.”

“That never happened.”

“Are you sure. I spent many, many nights at your house. I may have bumped into her a time or two in the kitchen. You know how much I used to like midnight snacks.”

“I swear to God, you better be joking or I’m going to pull this fucking Jeep over and feed you your nuts.”

“I’m kidding. It never happened, but I do want to ask her out. She’s so hot for an older woman.”

“Oh, God. Please shut up.”

We busted out laughing and despite his teasing, and my urge to choke him, I felt a huge weight lifted off of my shoulders. I couldn’t wait to get back to Allison and tell her the good news.

***

Allison

By the time David came home, girl’s day had been over for hours. Sierra had gone to my mother’s house for a little bit of holiday cookie baking, and I’d had a long talk with her about staying the whole night to give me and her Daddy some time. She’d agreed, but it remained to be seen if she’d try anything or not. I also spoke with my mother as well and explained the situation so she could run interception if needed. Not only did I need time for David, but I'd also spent the entire afternoon gift wrapping, and David caught me kneeling by the warmth of the fireplace as I stacked gifts under the tree.

“You look beautiful in that light.” His voice was low and seductive.

“How did boy’s day go?” A soft smile spread his lips, and he came over to join me on the floor, taking my hand.

He gave me a soft kiss. “It went great actually. I talked to Greyson.”

“The talk?” My heart began to race.

“Yes, that talk.”

“When?” I cupped his face.

His hands fell on mine. “New Year’s.”

I kissed him hard and pulled away to meet his eyes. “But I thought you wanted to wait until after the Super Bowl?”

“I did, but I have other things I need to do. More important things.” He kissed me again, this time letting his mouth linger a bit longer than before.

“Yeah?” I whispered against his mouth. My face warmed with a smile as the need grew deep within me.

“Mhm.” I figured he was going to ask me about the date, but instead, he took me into his arms and laid me back beside the tree and made love to my mouth.

I reached down and felt his hard cock through his pants, and he hissed a breath through his teeth as I made contact. “I’ve missed you all day.”

“Pretty soon we’ll have every day together.”

“Mhm. And I want this every single day.” He cupped my mound over my yoga pants and pressed firmly.

“It’s yours.” I captured his mouth, and we kissed as he found my waistband beneath my shirt and tugged down my pants, panties and all leaving me exposed and glistening like the twinkling Christmas tree.

His mouth fell upon my soft mound, and he licked between my folds, parting me with his cool hand to flick my clit with his tongue.

Then he slowly slipped two fingers inside of me and pumped his arm slowly, stroking my sopping wet channel that was so ripe and ready for his thick cock.

“Mine,” he whispered.

He worked me through two orgasms and by the time the second one subsided, leaving me aching for something to fill my walls, he reached down and slipped off his pants.

“I need it so bad.” I writhed beneath him, my hormones going crazy with need and lust for him. He brought his mouth to my nipples as he centered his cock between my legs.

He kissed me as his cock slowly parted me, spreading me so wide with his girth that I was stretched to my limits as always. He was a perfect fit, and we were made for each other. As the head of his cock hit my depths, I wrapped my legs around him, nudging him closer. “Mine,” I purred.

“Fuck.” He slowly worked his hips against me, rolling and rutting, tilting my hips to grind on my tender spot until I came again, much wetter than before.

“That’s right, baby. Come all over my dick.” He panted and moaned and kissed me hard before pulling me close to change positions.

He rolled over, putting me on top. I straddled his hips, grinding down on him as he reached up and cupped my breasts, dragging a rough thumb across my sensitive tip.

I leaned forward, licking around his nipple rings, my hands trailing up his tattoos on his side. I pinched a ring between my teeth and tugged, causing him to moan out so loud it echoed around the room. His hips responded with a hard, upward thrust and moments later, he was bucking them wildly, bouncing me in his lap.

“I want to fuck those tits.” He got up on his knees, and I sat on my bottom, pressing my breasts together for him to slide his cock between. “Fuck yeah, baby. Open your mouth.”

I opened my mouth, and his cock slipped inside my lips with each thrust, and before long, I let my breasts fall, licking my own nectar from his shaft as I worshipped it with my mouth. His veins rolled beneath my tongue, and before I knew it, he gathered my hair and began thrusting his hips to fuck my face.

I moaned on his cock, and he held me down, pressing his cock so deep, his head locked behind my tonsils as his cock swelled and readied for his release. His thick hot streams shot into my throat, pumping in spurts until I gulped and gagged, swallowing them down.

I pulled away with watery eyes and a big smile. I hadn’t felt that alive in months.

“That was so hot, but we’ll never make a baby if I keep swallowing.”

David belted a laugh. “Don’t worry, baby. There’s plenty more where that came from. I’m going to put the next one so deep in this pussy.” His fingers pressed deep inside me and stroked my walls.

We lay there stroking and kissing one another, and after a moment, he whispered in my ear. “How do you want it, baby?”

“Hard,” I said getting up on all fours and tilting my ass toward him.

“That’s my girl. I want to make you come so good.” His hand snaked around beneath me and tugged me closer as his cock pressed against my ass.

Then he slipped his cock into my tight, wet pussy and teased his finger around my other hole. “Fuck it, please.” I was desperate for him to fill me everywhere he could, and once again, he gave me just what I wanted. His finger pressed hard against my ass, and then he parted me, his finger sliding into the knuckle, stroking and fucking as his cock filled my pussy even deeper.

I moaned and whimpered, letting the feeling of being consumed by his touch envelop me. My next release came a moment before he thrust deep and poured inside of me.

He pulled away, and I rolled over, sitting a moment as I collected myself and caught my breath.

He sat naked with me by the fire, and we stared at the lights. “So?”

I smiled knowing exactly what was on his mind. I’d waited for it, and now the time had finally come. “Valentine’s Day?” I searched his eyes, and he nodded, tilting his head a bit. “Sierra and I came up with that. I thought it would be after the Super Bowl, all of your work would be done—

“Why not New Year’s Eve? I want to start the year together. Greyson is taking over effective immediately, and we’ve already determined we don’t need a huge ceremony.” He closed his eyes and rested his head on my shoulder.

“No, she’s got this whole red, pink and white thing planned. I don’t want to disappoint her. You know, originally she wanted to do it today.” I let loose a laugh, and he joined in.

“She’s funny, but for the record, I would have made it happen.” I knew he’d always do whatever it took to give us what we wanted. “I’m just glad you finally set a date.”

“She asked if I was mad at you. She’s been feeling the tension between us lately and asked if I was going to leave you like I did Doug.”

His face scrunched with a look of pain. “Wow. You told her that would never happen, right?”

“Of course, David. I let her help me choose a date because she was upset we hadn’t gotten married yet.”

“Valentine’s will be great. Even I didn’t realize how important it all was to Sierra. I thought just being together would make the difference, but she needs us all together with the same name.”

“I’ve wanted to be a DeVant my entire life. I used to scribble my married name in my diary. Mrs. Allison DeVant. It always sounded so much more sophisticated than Allison Beall.”

“We can do it sooner, then. Christmas Day?” His eyes lit with his smile.

I laughed over his shoulder and then turned my head up to kiss his mouth. “You’re as bad as your daughter, who has a play next week.”

“Right.”

“I’m so excited you’re finally going to be with me again every day. We can take Sierra to school and come home and make love all day if we want to.”

“I like that idea.” His hands slipped down and rubbed my flat tummy. “And with any luck at all, you’ll be a lot rounder with my son by then.”

“A son, huh?”

He gave me a sly grin and pulled me in for a languid kiss.

***

David

On Wednesday, since Allison wasn’t feeling well, I had the honors of picking up our daughter from her last day of school.

She ran to the car with a big smile, and her teacher came up behind her to open the door and buckle her into the seatbelt. “Daddy! I got a solo in the pageant!” She climbed up into the seat and tossed her bag into the floorboard.

“We’ll see you at the pageant, Mr. DeVant. Happy Holidays.” She shut the door, and I waited for her to step away before I drove toward home.

“Where’s Mama?” Sierra’s brow furrowed.

“Mama is not feeling well. She thought I’d like picking you up for your last day.”

She held up a piece of paper. “This is the schedule for the play, Daddy. I have to come to rehearsal all week.” I let loose a sigh and glanced at the paper. There were five performances total, and if Allison didn’t get any better, I’d have the honor of getting Sierra to each one all by myself.

“Put that back in your bag, so you don’t lose it, and we’ll look at it when we get home.”

“Christmas Eve is the biggest night. That’s the last performance and my teacher says that we get to host a charity event after. They’re going to have a big cake.”

It was cute listening to her gush about the pageant, and I was proud of her for being involved and excited too. When I was a kid, I hadn’t wanted to do any type of singing or performing but remembered the time her mother had played a Christmas tree in the middle school play. She’d been so pretty, all draped in green and adorned with ornaments. Missy had helped with the costume. I realized I was starving and decided that I’d cook as soon as we got home. I stopped by the market and Sierra, and I went inside and gathered everything we needed for homemade chicken soup. I had a pretty good idea how to make it, but I called my sister to make sure I was right.

Sierra pulled a stool up to the counter and helped me load up the food slicer. It was nice to finally have our kitchen back, and with any luck, the last of the construction on our laundry room would be done soon enough. I let her help where she could, which was mostly telling me how to do things. She did manage to fill a pot with water, and I shrugged at the amount and tossed in a few chicken breasts.

“This is going to be the best chicken soup ever. I bet Mama feels better after one bite.”

“I hope so, baby. I don’t like Mama being sick.” I hated seeing either of my girls under the weather and hoped that whatever this bug was, that Sierra and I didn’t get it.

It was all Greyson’s fault with his sinus bullshit that had turned into a full-blown cold. He’d even missed two days of work for the first time in three years, and I had no doubt he’d infected the house the day I’d given him the business.

Just when I thought the chicken was ready to debone, Sierra jumped down from her stool. “Someone’s here.”

I watched her as she went around the counter to the front window. “It’s Uncle Blaine!” She jumped up and down with joy.

“Let him in.” I walked over to the kitchen door and watched as Katrina stepped inside with Blaine on her heels.

“What smells good?” Katrina unwrapped her scarf and took off her gloves, shoving them in her pocket.

“Mama’s sick, and we’re making chicken soup.”

“Oh no!” Katrina looked my way. “Is it a cold?”

“I’m not sure. She’s had a little cough and sniffles, but she’s been nauseated and can’t keep anything down.”

“Has she lost her appetite?”

“No, which is why I’m making soup. I hope it’s just a cold.”

She grinned and looked at Blaine who was obviously thinking whatever she was. “Are you sure she’s not—

The rest of the question hung in the air as she glanced down at Sierra who was already heading back toward me and the kitchen. “You know, pregnant?” She whispered the word.

“Wouldn’t she know?”

“Well, not necessarily. I’m going up to talk to her.” She headed upstairs, but I shook my head. Allison would know if she was pregnant and it wouldn’t explain her runny nose and cough.

My brother joined me in the kitchen, and Sierra went up to see her mom too. I decided it was time to find out just what was going on with my brother and Katrina Maxwell.

“Are you two like a thing?”

“Yes, we’re a thing.”

“Relationships are a lot of work, man. Are you sure you know what you’re getting into? Katrina is Allison’s best friend, and she’s a bit protective.”

“I know. I like that they have each other.”

“What about Greyson, are you aware that Katrina’s been spending time with him as well?”

“Well, not anymore, not like she was. I told her how I feel and she said she let him down easy. I didn’t want to make problems, but I’m at this point in life where I’m going for the things I want. I want a relationship and a family.”

“And you want that with her?”

“Why are you so surprised? Have you seen her? She’s gorgeous, and she’s outgoing and creative. We hit it off.”

“I just don’t want this to end badly, and then things be messed up. I like Katrina, don’t get me wrong, but with her being so close to Alli, and you being my brother—

“It’s going to be fine. If things keep going the way they are, I might be married before you.” He gave me a shit-eating grin, but I had news for him.

“Not unless you’re planning to do it on Valentine’s Day, I’ve got you beat.” I gave him a wink and went back to my chicken, which was a sickly shade of white. I put it on the plate and pulled it off the bone with a fork.

“I think you’re supposed to use your hands.”

“I’m not touching that.”

He belted a laugh. “I’m sure it’s okay. It’s the thought that counts.”

“It’s going to be delicious.

“Valentine’s Day, huh?” He scratched his chin. “Nope, I think that’s a bit too soon for me. But maybe by the summer.”

“You’re really head over heels for her. Don’t rush it. Look how long it took me and Allison.”

“I don’t have a lifetime.”

“Sure, you do.”

He put his hand on my shoulder and looked me in the eyes. “I really wanted you to be happy for me.”

“Trust me, I am.”

“Good.” He turned and leaned against the counter. “So, Greyson’s really taking over?”

“Already has. I announced it on Monday.”

“I’m officially out on the thirtieth, and then we’ll be in rush wedding mode.”

“Valentine’s Day.” He shook his head. “You know, that will make it easier to remember your anniversary. Pretty smart thinking.”

Katrina came down and stopped to smell the aroma of the soup. “You’re going to make a good wife, DeVant.”

Blaine laughed. “I was just telling him how getting married on Valentine’s Day was going to help him remember their anniversary.”

“Assuming you can remember when Valentine’s Day is.” She had a point. I sucked at remembering dates. “Allison’s excited. I heard all about it upstairs.”

“And did you make a diagnosis?” I was eager to see if she still thought Alli was pregnant.

She giggled. “Only one way to know for sure, but it might cost you twenty bucks.” Blaine and I exchanged a look, and she rolled her eyes. “Go buy a pregnancy test.”

“Now that’s a solid idea.” I had a twenty to spare for peace of mind.

“I told you she’s amazing.” Blaine kissed his girl as I tossed the chicken back into the pot. The vegetables were simmering and getting softer, and it was actually looking edible.

A half hour later, after Blaine and Katrina left, the soup was done. I fed Sierra a bowl, and we ate together in our new breakfast nook as Alli finished her nap.

I went up and knocked on the door, carrying a tray with some juice and a bowl of my soup, which wasn’t half bad.

“What’s that?” She sat up in bed and pulled the covers around her waist.

“Chicken soup. It’s got carrots, celery, noodles.”

“From a can?”

I proudly shook my head. “Nope. I made it from scratch.”

“Have you tasted it?”

“Yes, and Sierra too. We liked it. I did add a tad more salt, but I think I got it. Katrina and Blaine left.”

“Yeah, I was a bit out of it when she came up. I told her about the wedding.”

“Me too.” I placed the tray on her lap and sat next to her. “You need to eat and build your strength.”

“I hate being sick. I’m going to miss Sierra’s pageant.” She rubbed her face and wiped a tear.

“I’m going to take care of you and make sure you’re all better. Katrina thinks you’re pregnant.”

“I’ve been pregnant; it feels different. Trust me, I wish.” She got a spoonful of soup and picked up a cracker. She gave it a taste and her eyes lit with surprise. “That’s good stuff.”

She dropped her spoon back into the bowl.

“Are you okay?”

“Yeah, just so sore; achy.”

“I’ll feed you.”

“You’re too good to me, David. I feel bad being sick with there so much going on. I have a wedding to plan.”

“Hey, we have time. We have to get you well. Nothing else is more important. One thing at a time.” I didn’t want her to worry about a thing.