Protecting his Love

His Love Series Book Three

M.J. Perry

Contents

 

© 2018 Stacey Perry. All rights reserved.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, businesses, companies, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Lexi

“Lexi, are you ok?” My friend Jen asked pulling me from my thoughts.

I said yes and watched her eyes narrow. She didn’t call me on my lie just shook her head at me while she walked away. She knew I was lying, I knew I was lying, but I didn’t feel like talking about it. I’m grateful she didn’t push me. The truth is, I am on edge. Every weekend my ex-husband Julian has our daughter Katie. He collects her from school on a Friday and brings her home on a Sunday evening. Lately, though he’s been trying to change things, trying to upset me. Which because it’s him it happens easily, he’s also been spoiling for a fight. He was acting like a completely different person to the one I knew, the one I fell in love and then out of love with.

He was supposed to bring Katie home at five today, but I had a feeling he wouldn’t. I ran my hands through my hair in frustration and grabbed the broom I’d been using to sweep the floor. I helped Jen out at her salon on weekends; it beat sitting at home worrying and it saved her money because I wouldn’t take a penny from her. I’m rich, ridiculously rich. After Julian and I divorced my Gran died. She left me everything and when I say everything, I mean everything, her house and everything in it, her savings accounts and her current account. None of us had realised just how rich she was, not even me and I figure she’d wanted it that way. Her only stipulation in the will was that I could only inherit if I wasn’t in a relationship with Julian. If I was with him still, then the estate and everything else would be looked after by the solicitor’s until the stipulation was met.

She died two months after my divorce was finalised, she’d been so poorly, and the doctor hadn’t thought she would last as long as she did. I think the only reason she held on so long was to make sure I left him. She’d always hated Julian.

“Wow,” Jen whispered loudly in my ear making me jump.

I looked up to see who she was talking about. “Yeah, wow.” I agreed.

Ryder Allen was walking past the salon window. Beautiful sprang to mind every time I saw him, as well as gorgeous, sexy, ripped and dangerous, definitely dangerous. His muscles had muscles and his arms were covered in tattoos. He was the complete opposite to Julian who was blonde, blue-eyed and clean shaven. Ryder has dark hair which he wore short, his eyes are the colour of a clear blue sky on a sunny day and they seem to see straight into my soul. Apart from Julian I have never been interested in anyone else, sure I’ve found guys attractive, but none had called to me. Ryder was different; from the first moment I’d seen him I’d wanted to be with him, to have his strong arms around me, also to rip his and my clothes off and rub my body against him.

“I wonder if he’s back for longer than a day this time.” Jen mused.

“I hope so, I’ve missed him.” And I had. Despite my secret attraction to him, Ryder and I are close. He is my next door neighbour and my friend.

“When you find out let me know so I can make an excuse to come over.” Jen grinned.

“I’ll do that.” I grinned back. She didn’t need an excuse; she practically lived at my house when she wasn’t working.

“Especially if you see him about to mow his lawn, I think the whole street found an excuse to be in their garden to see him without his shirt on the last time he did it.” She fanned herself with her hand. “That sight kept me going for a month.”

“That’s gross!” I exclaimed not needing that visual in my head.

“Hey, if I haven’t got a man to satisfy my urges I’m going to do it myself.”

And there you have it, my best friend telling me she masturbates. “Jen seriously, I love you but I could have done without knowing that.”

“You just need to get some, it will relax you. After nearly two years of lusting after Ryder don’t you think it time to make a move?”

“Nope, no way, absolutely not.” I wasn’t putting myself out there only to be rejected. Ryder was way out of my league.

“Lexi you deserve to be happy. Julian ripped your heart out, but that was three years ago. Don’t you think it’s time you moved on?”

“I have moved on, I don’t feel anything for him anymore other than being grateful for our daughter, but I’m just not ready to date and I’m definitely not ready to throw myself at a man who is in a different world to me.”

“Ryder is not in a different world and if you opened your eyes, you would see the way he looks at you. He’s interested in you sweetie.”

“Sure he is. Why hasn’t he made a move then? Why hasn’t he told me he likes me?”

“I don't know Lexi, but I’m telling you, his feelings are more than just friendship where you’re concerned.”

Could he really feel more than friendship? A sex god like him being interested in a thirty-two-year-old divorcee with a five-year-old daughter and an ex-husband who liked to stir up trouble just didn’t seem likely to be true, even if I wished it so.

I have brown curly hair, green eyes and a body which has a lot of curves. I’m nothing like the women I’ve seen him with before, completely different to the tall blonde model type beauties he seemed to prefer.

“I’m not ready,” I told her and not for the first time either.

“Yes, you are. You’ve been ready since you first met him. You’re letting your insecurities rule your life. Julian did a number on you, but you came out stronger. You can beat him; beat the way he made you feel about yourself, you’re just not trying hard enough. You’ve become comfortable hiding away.”

“I’m not hiding.” Even as I said the words, I realised she was right. I’d given in to the sadness and the shame of feeling I wasn’t good enough and I’d let that shape me into feeling less than I am. It was time to change that. “You’re right.”

“I know I am, I’m glad you see that.”

“One day I’ll do something about it, but right now I’m going home to make cakes for Katie.”

“And Ryder?”

I blushed. “Yes and Ryder.”

She gave me a knowing look and shook her head with a smile. “I don’t know how he can stay so fit with all the cakes and biscuits he eats.”

“He jogs.” The sight of him in a wife beater and cut off trackie bottoms was captivating.

“Judging by that dreamy look on your face he’s a nice sight when he does.”

“Oh yeah, he sure is.”

She tapped my arm. “Go home and get baking, Katie will be home in three hours.”

I smiled. I’d missed my daughter. I put the broom against the wall and walked to the back room to get my bag and coat. “You’ll be ok?” I asked.

“It’s quiet; I’ve done all my appointments so I’m going to close soon, anyway.”

“Ok, I’ll call you tomorrow then.”

“Bye babe, give Katie a great big smackeroo for me.”

“Will do,” I promised as I closed the door behind me. I didn’t bother putting my coat on, the sun was warm on my face and I only had a little way to walk until I got home.

I decided on baking blueberry muffins, they were Ryder and Katie’s favourites. The muffins gave me an excuse to knock on Ryder’s door.

My heart sank when I walked past his house and saw his car wasn’t there. I hope he hasn’t gone away again. I’m not quite sure what he does for a living but I did know it caused him to be away more times than he was home. I tried using that knowledge to get over him, telling myself that his mysterious ways could be hiding the fact he is a criminal or something, but it didn’t work. Especially when I found out he’d anonymously helped out Mr Drew to get him back on his feet when he was about to claim bankruptcy. The only reason he’d been found out was that the bank sent the wrong paperwork to Mr Drew and it had Ryder’s name on it. Ryder’s money had saved the Drew’s garage and ensured they wouldn’t lose the house too. He was such a good guy, and this knowledge had me falling even harder for him when I’d already gone down like a ton of bricks. When I thought of him, I thought of safety, of passion and yes, love. I needed someone who was patient and understanding, who would give me things I thought I needed and things I didn’t even know I needed and I didn’t mean material things either. Ryder would give me all that and more. He’s what I need especially after Julian left me feeling so inadequate. My insecurities weren’t as bad as they were, I see now that Julian treated me badly, but at the time all I could feel was a failure. Failure at marriage, at being a woman even at being a mother all because one day my husband came home to tell me he was leaving me to be with his personal assistant. He blamed me as he felt I was letting myself go.  Now I know it wasn’t my fault, maybe it wasn’t Julian’s either. Some marriages just don’t work no matter how much you want them too.

I let myself into my home and headed straight to the kitchen. First things first, I needed coffee. I stuck the kettle on and busied myself getting all the ingredients I needed to start baking.

Two hours later I sat at my kitchen table with my second cup of coffee surrounded by blueberry muffins, cookies and a carrot cake. I’d gotten carried away. I love baking, cooking not so much. Being married to Julian meant he wanted his tea ready for when he came home in the evening. It became a chore that I did even though I hated the routine of it all. One day I would have loved for him to come home and say surprise, I’m taking you out for tea. Of course, I could have told him to cook his own, but Julian was the type to sulk and he would have been unbearable to deal with. Katie and I sit in front of the television most night’s now, relaxed and happy eating tea instead of feeling like we’re at a silent movie dinner party. Julian hated talk at the table; it was another thing I wasn’t sure why I put up with.

My phone rang from inside my bag making me jump. I pulled it out with shaky fingers and a wave of sickness washed over me when I saw Julian’s name on the screen.

“Hello.”

“Lexi, I’ve decided to keep Katie overnight. She doesn’t have school tomorrow, so it’s not a problem is it?”

Tears pricked my eyes. Didn’t I know he would do this? “I have plans for us tomorrow.”

“Plans change Lex. You have Katie all week and I only see her for a couple of days.”

My teeth snapped together before I could swear at him.  “I hardly see her all week because she’s at school and then on weekends she is with you.” I reminded him.

“You agreed to it, don’t you go trying to change your mind now.”

“I’m not trying to change my mind; I’m just stating a fact.”

“Well, here’s a fact for you, tomorrow is half term, Katie is off school; therefore, I’m keeping her tonight. Have a nice night.”

I opened my mouth to tell him he couldn’t, but he hung up on me. Shock warred with anger inside me and I burst into tears. When would this end? When would he stop punishing me for things I wasn’t even aware I had done? He uses Katie against me and there is nothing I can do except stop his contact and I could never do that to Katie, she loved her daddy. He loves her, I see it, I know it, but he still uses her to get at me, to hurt me. All I’d ever done was love him, how could he hate me so much when he was the one that had cheated on me, that had left me, who forced me to deal with a stepmother for our daughter a month after our divorce was finalised. I didn’t understand his behaviour, and that made it worse.

I picked my coffee up and still clutching my phone I headed out to my front porch. I needed some air and to get out of my empty house. I didn’t bother with the lights; the light of the full moon gave me enough. I sat down on my porch step staring down my driveway, helplessness washed over me. What could I do? Call the police? Technically he is breaking our agreement, but Katie isn’t in danger she’s with her father and I’d feel like I was wasting their time. I could go over there and get her myself, but it would cause a huge scene. Julian wouldn’t let me take her home and Katie would see us argue and I didn’t want her to get upset. If his wife Tammy was there, it would be even worse, she hates me, and again I didn’t know why because she was the one that stole my husband, not the other way around. Katie didn’t need to see us row, she was a sensitive girl.

My shoulders slumped in defeat, he pretty much had me over a barrel because there was no way I was going to upset my little girl. I knew she was happy there. I used to worry that Tammy would be horrible to her, but Katie had never said anything to concern me, In fact, she liked her and it seemed the feeling was mutual.

Headlights lit up my drive for a moment and my heart sped up. Just for a second, I thought Julian had changed his mind, but I realise quickly how stupid that thought is. He never gave in or backed down even when he was in the wrong.

“Lexi,”

“Shit.” I jumped so high I nearly spilt my now cold coffee. 

Ryder walked out of the darkness by the side of my house and I watched as he climbed the steps and sat down next to me. He was so close I could feel his body heat causing my whole body to fill with longing.

“You scared me,” I told him breathless from the fright and his closeness.

“Why are you crying?”

I sniffed. “I’m not.”

“I call bullshit Lex; I can see the tears on your face.”

“Oh.” I wiped my hand over my cheeks. “I’m just hormonal.” I lied. I wasn’t sure why I didn’t want to tell him, I guess I felt like a failure and I didn’t want him to think I was too.

“Don’t lie to me. You’re not very good at it. Tell me what’s upset you.” He demanded.

I sighed. “Julian just called to tell me he’s keeping Katie again instead of bringing her back tonight.”

“Keeping her? He acts like she’s a pet or a possession. Did you tell him he couldn’t?”

I bristled. Did I seem like a doormat to him? “Of course I did, but he just hung up on me.”

“Do you want me to go with you to get her?” He asked in a gentler voice.

Did I? Hell yes, but it would just make the situation worse. “It’s too late now; she’ll be getting ready for bed soon. I don’t want to disrupt her and I don’t think I’m feeling strong enough to take on Julian and Tammy right now.”

“I would go with you Lex and I wouldn’t let either of them hurt you.”  I heard the truth in his words and it sent my insides soft. It was tempting, so tempting to let him fight my battles, but it wasn’t a good idea. Julian would find a way to cause me more trouble and god forbid that he thought Ryder, and I were more than friends, he would do anything to break us up. Julian didn’t like to think of me with other men even if he was the one who’d discarded me.

“Thank you. It means a lot that you'd do that, but it’s fine. He’ll bring her home tomorrow like he said.” I hoped.

Ryder didn’t look any more convinced than I felt.

“Are you sure?”

“I am, honestly.”

He stared at me and my face grew hot, I wondered if he could see my red cheeks. “If you change your mind, you only have to knock on my door.”

“I’ll do that. Thanks.”

He nodded. “What time is she supposed to be coming home tomorrow?”

“Five I’d guess.”

“If she isn’t here by half-past come get me and we’ll go get her ourselves.”

Wow. “Ok, I will. Thank you.”

“You don’t need to thank me, babe. Katie’s a good kid.”

“Yeah, she is.”

“That’s because she has a great mother.”

His compliment had me beaming, and he smiled at me before bumping my shoulder with his. “Sweetheart, anytime I’m home and you need anything you just have to knock, you know that right?”

I smiled again touched by his kindness.

“Even when you’ve been crying you are still fucking beautiful.” He brushed his thumb over my cheek catching a stray tear and grinned at me. My mouth dropped open in shock and he used his thumb to nudge it closed, his eyes shined with amusement. He got up and walked back the way he came and I couldn’t tear my eyes from him. My sexy neighbour had just called me beautiful, whether he meant it or he’d said it to cheer me up, I didn’t care, and the big smile on my face proved it.

Lexi

My entire day had consisted of cleaning my already clean house and dreading a phone call from Julian telling me he’d decided to keep Katie again. Now, here I’m sat at my dining room table watching the leaves sway on the trees through the window and sipping maybe my fifth cup of coffee. I’m exhausted. Last night I couldn’t have slept more than a couple of hours. If I wasn’t dreaming about Katie, being kept from me, it was Ryder running his hands all over my body. I alternated between waking up scared and waking up so incredibly aroused; I was drenched in sweat. It has been a long time since I’ve had sex and it never bothered me before, but Ryder made me think of beds and naked bodies, of kissing and touching each other and it was exciting, the butterflies in my tummy proved it. When the sun finally began to rise I’d given up on sleep and got up. My house was now shiny and lemon fresh, I’d finally cleaned out the cupboard under the stairs and my kitchen smelt of baking. I’d got carried away yet again, and I was surrounded by muffins and cookies. There was no way Katie and I could eat all of them without turning into lumps. I’d have to give some to the salon for the customers and more to Ryder than I’d planned to. Ryder ate so many of my sweet treats but his body always stayed fit, it could be the jogging like I told Jen but I was sure it wasn’t the only exercise he did.

I finished my coffee and as I was rinsing my cup: I heard a car drive up towards my house and then a car door opening. I nearly tripped over my own feet in my eagerness to get to the front door so I could see Katie. She was climbing out of the car with Julian’s help. When she saw me she jumped from his hold and ran straight to me. I bent in a crouch and caught her up in a big hug.

“Hey, baby girl.”

“I missed you, Mummy.”

“And I missed you.” I kissed her cheek.

I watched as Julian walked towards us with a frown. Here we go.

“Katie, baby, there are cookies and muffins in the kitchen, go and help yourself while Mummy and Daddy talk.” I smiled carefully hiding my dismay at what was about to come.

Katie looked at her daddy with wary eyes. She kissed my cheek. “Ok, Mummy. Bye, Daddy.” She said before she ran into the house shutting the door behind her.

I stood up not liking Julian towering over me. Crossing my arms I lifted my eyes to his knowing he was spoiling for a fight and boy was I right.

“You do not tell me when to bring my daughter back.” The venom in his voice surprised me. He’d never spoken to me like that before.

“Yes, I do Julian. We have an agreement which states you have her on the weekends, and when you’d like more access, we’re supposed to discuss it.”

He shook his head, his eyes sparkling like wildfire. I swallowed nervously at the change in him; I didn’t recognise this person in front of me.

“Katie deserves to see me as much as she sees you. I’m her father I have the same rights as you and if I decide to let her stay for a week, I will do it whether you like I or not.”

Where was this coming from? We'd been sticking to this agreement since the day he’d walked out of our marriage. “You may share custody, but Katie lives with me and the order states you have her Friday to Sunday unless we have prearranged something else. You don’t get to decide to keep her another night and tell me half an hour before she’s due home.”

“I can do what I like.” He sneered at me.

“What is wrong with you?” I was genuinely surprised by his behaviour.

“Nothing is wrong with me. You’re the one who has the problem.”

“Julian, seriously, stop trying to cause a row. Please go home.”

He ignored me. “Next time I’m keeping her for a week.”

“If you do that, I’ll call the police,” I told him and I was deadly serious.

“You’re a stupid bitch!” He yelled.

My mouth dropped open at his words and then I froze to the spot when he started to move towards me with murder on his mind if his eyes were anything to go by. My ex-husband looked like he wanted to hit me. I managed to unglue my feet, and I started moving backwards not taking my eyes off him. He kept coming, and I was about to panic.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” The voice came from behind me, but I didn’t let my relief show until I felt hands grip my shoulders and Ryder’s scent hit my nostrils, that’s when my legs went weak. I held myself up with all the strength I could find, I didn’t want to show fear, well any more than I already had. Who was this person in front of me? He was unrecognisable. He’d changed from a man always in control to what looked like a madman, someone so out of control he would hurt me, he actually wanted to cause me pain, and I could see that clearly in his cold eyes. He stopped his advance when Ryder spoke and stared at me before he looked down in shock at his clenched fists. His pale eyes lifted to mine with regret.

“Lexi, my god, I’m so sorry, so sorry. I don’t know what…” He trailed off looking away. He swallowed and caught my eyes again. “I’m so sorry.” He whispered. His anguish was real, he wasn’t faking it and I felt sorry for him, even though my fear hadn’t quite receded. My hands were still shaking.

“It’s Ok,” I whispered back. It wasn’t, of course, it wasn’t, but I didn’t know what else to say.

Ryder’s hands tightened on me. “It’s not fucking Ok.” He growled at Julian. “Now you’d better leave before I make you.”

His words caused me to tense. Julian didn’t like being ordered around and I was worried it would set him off again. I held my breath waiting for him to reply, to show his displeasure, but he didn’t. He just nodded and headed towards his car. Ryder and I watched in silence as his car disappeared out of sight. I shook my head. What in the hell had just happened?

“Has he ever done that before?”

I didn’t need to ask him what he meant. “No, he’s been angry before, but he’s never raised a hand to me.”

“Are you telling me the truth?”

“I thought you could tell when I’m lying?” I teased hating to see him look so worried.

“This is too important Lexi.” He turned me so I faced him fully. “Promise me he’s never hit you.”

“I promise he hasn’t Ryder.”

He closed his eyes briefly and when they opened, they blazed with a scorching anger. “I’m hanging by a thread here, I really want to go after him and beat the shit out of him.”

His body was shaking in his fury. “Julian has never got that close to hurting me. When he used to get mad, he’d shout at me then ignore me for a couple of days. Something is up with him, he’s acting strangely.”

Ryder gripped my face gently in his big hands. “I want to hurt him so badly he won’t be able to walk for even thinking of laying a hand on you in anger.”

“I think he felt bad enough when he left.”

“So he fucking should. No man should ever put his hands on a woman when he’s in a rage.”

“I know.” I agreed. I could feel him slowly calming down, his tense body growing lax. “I need to go and check on Katie. I hope she didn’t see or hear anything.” She didn’t need to see that side of her father; hell, I wish I hadn’t seen it.

“Come on then.” He let go of my face and disappointment ran through me at the loss of contact until he grabbed my hand.

When we walked into the house Katie screeched before she threw herself at Ryder. He let go of my hand and caught her up in his muscular arms swinging her around before he dropped her gently to her feet again.

“Hey, sweetie.”

“Mummy made blueberry muffins did she tell you?”

“No, she didn’t.” He raised his eyebrows at her stained mouth and chuckled. “Are there any left?”

“I saved you some.” She giggled and my worry for her disappeared.

“Good, squirt. Shall we go get one while your mummy has a rest? We can make her a coffee too.”

He smiled at me and then holding Katie’s hand he strolled into the kitchen as if he lived here and did it every single day. I plonked my bum on the sofa and rested my head against the back of it. Katie came running in not five minutes later with a muffin on a plate and she curled up next to me, I put my arm around her shoulders and she snuggled closer.

“Did you have a nice time at Daddy’s house baby?”

“Yes, it was fun. Guess what?” she asked with excitement.

“What?”

“Tammy gave me a new coat; it’s pink and has funny shaped buttons on it.” She pulled a face. “She said I’m only allowed to wear it when I’m at daddy’s house.”

That bloody woman. “That’s OK sweetie, you can wear your old one here and save your new coat for weekends.”

“Yes, but Mummy I won’t be able to show you it.”

Before I could speak she got up and sat in front of the television, not too close though because we’d already had that conversation.

“I love this cartoon, the girl always falls over.” She told me.

The house phone started to ring, but before I could get my legs out from under me, Ryder shouted that he had it. I wasn’t sure if I liked that, what if it was my parents? They’d want to know who he is and even though I’d tell them the truth that Ryder was only my friend they would be out here like a shot to match-make, even with them being so many miles away it didn’t stop them trying to set me up on dates. They want me to be happy, but they didn’t listen when I told them I wasn’t interested in dating. The only man I want is talking on my phone right now, but I’d never tell them that.

Ryder called my name from the kitchen and I headed towards him. My phone was still in his hand and the scowl on his face told me it wasn’t a happy conversation.

“Who rang?” I asked.

“Julian. He wanted to speak to you, but I said no.”

I opened my mouth to tell him off, after all, it was my phone and he didn’t have the right to do that. He shook his head before I got the words out and I snapped my lips together with a glare.

“Don’t get pissy with me. I told him no because he’s only going to try to blame his behaviour on you.”

“I wouldn’t let him do that. I’m not weak, no matter what you seem to think.” I snapped.

He smiled, actually smiled at me with dimples and my anger drained away just like that. “I know you’re not weak, but you’re too nice. You’ll forgive him easily forgetting about the fact he nearly hit you, but I refuse to let you do that.”

This man knew me better than I knew myself; I had no idea I would have done that until he said, he’s right, I would have swept it under the rug. Ryder saw my surprise and shook his head slowly. “Fucking hell Lexi he was going to put his hands on you. He wanted to hurt you; I saw it in his eyes.”

I sighed.

“Even now you’re excusing him?”

“I’m not, am I?” I sighed again. “I guess I am. The Julian I know would never have touched me in anger.”

“It doesn’t matter now because he will never get close to you again. If he needs to speak to you he calls you. When he collects Katie and drops her off he’s not to get out of his car. If I see one of his fancy ass loafers on your drive, I’ll make him eat it.”

I’m shocked and it showed. “He agreed to this?”

“I didn’t give him a choice.”

Wow. Ryder in protective mode was really hot. My body is tingly and my insides bubbled with delight at his take charge attitude. The truth is, I feel relieved. I would have forgotten what Julian did for Katie’s sake, but I wouldn’t have been comfortable around him and I definitely wouldn’t have been able to hide my fear from him. Ryder was staring at me, he looked concerned and I realised he was nervous, nervous about my reaction, surely not?

“Thank you for looking out for me,” I said with a smile.

He blinked in surprise clearly expecting me to argue with him. “That’s all you have to say?”

“Yes, I mean I could shout at you if you want but I like your plan, it makes me feel safe.”

He smiled. He had a nice smile, but right this moment it was his eyes that took my breath away, they were glowing with happiness. His big shoulders relaxed, and he held out a hand. I placed my much smaller one in his and let him tug me into his warm body. His hand loosened, and he wrapped both arms around me pulling me closer. “I want you safe.” He whispered into my ear, his voice, rough with emotion caused me to shiver.

“I know,” I whispered back.

I shuffled slightly ready to pull away from him, but his grip tightened. Lifting my head to look at him, I gasped at the desire evident on his face. I wasn’t the only one affected by the closeness. His gaze dropped to my lips then lifter to meet my eyes. My lids grew heavy and I let them close just as I felt his mouth brush over mine in a soft caress. I needed more; I needed his taste, so I lifted my hands and sank them into his short hair trying to keep his mouth on my lips. He groaned low in his throat and pressed his hard lips against mine. I whimpered at the sensations and his tongue swept across my lips before it slipped inside tangling with my tongue and exploring the inside of my mouth, warmth spread through me and I moaned softly. For a long while all my thoughts centred on Ryder and what he was doing to my mouth, but eventually I had to pull away to take a breath. I rested my head on his chest listening to his heart and tried to calm myself down. When I felt more in control, I raised my head and caught a look of pain in his eyes. Had I done something wrong? An arrow of hurt shot through me, hadn’t he enjoyed it as much as I had? I tried to pull out of his arms but he stopped me by picking me up and holding me against his body leaving my feet dangling in the air.

“If I’d known how good a kisser you were I would have waited until we were alone so I could bury myself in you.”

I gasped at his bluntness.

“Never doubt how much I want you, baby.”

“But why? You've never shown an interest in me before.”

He sighed harshly. “We need to work on your self-worth.”

I looked at him in confusion. He hadn’t answered the question. He placed me gently on my feet and cupped my face. “When I first saw you I knew you would be mine, but you were going through a shit time and there was no way I was going to take advantage of you or have you worrying that you liked me on the rebound. You needed time to adjust to being a single mother, and I made the decision to wait until you were ready for me even if it killed me.”

“It’s been over two years,” I whispered hesitantly.

“My job took me into some dangerous places and I couldn’t have lived with myself if I’d put you and Katie in danger baby, trust me it wasn’t because I wasn’t interested. Now it’s time to take what is mine.”

I let out a breath over-whelmed by his words and shocked that my feelings weren’t quite as unrequited as I’d thought. He hadn’t mentioned love, but I wasn’t going to complain, him caring was enough, for now. Then his words hit me. “Your job is dangerous?”

“Not anymore baby, I took myself out of that life. I now only do detective work.”

I frowned. “You’re a detective?” How did I not know this?

“Not with the police. A friend of mine owns a security firm that specialises in private security; we take on cases that the police can’t or won’t.”

“Oh. Isn’t that still dangerous?”

“You don’t need to worry. I can look after myself and I always have back-up if I need it.”

That’s good to know. “Won’t you need to go back soon? You don’t usually stay home very long.”

“I had a reason for staying away; the temptation got too strong if I stayed close to you for too long.”

“Temptation?”

“To jump you, Lexi, well, not jump you as such just seduce you until you couldn’t remember your name, but as I’ve already said I wanted to give you time. I’m sticking around from now on, but it will take a few days for me to wrap up my cases and hand over the ones I can’t wrap up to someone else. Besides, it will take at least a week to eat all the things you’ve baked.”

I grinned. “So that’s why you want me, for my cooking skills.” I teased.

“That’s one reason, the others are that you are sweet, sincere, and the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.”

“No one has ever said anything so sweet to me in my life.”

“Want to tell me what you like about me?” He grinned.

“I don’t think you need an even bigger ego.”

He chuckled. “It doesn’t matter, you’re mine anyway.”

I raised my eyebrows in mock anger. “What if I don’t want to be yours?”

His eyes turned to slits, and he walked me backwards until my back hit the wall and his body pressed into mine pinning me in place, I couldn’t move if I tried. Why did that turn me on?

“Do I need to kiss you to prove it? I’m already struggling to remind myself that Katie is in the other room.” His mouth hovered over mine and I found myself leaning into him, my body started to tremble with my need to have him kiss me.

“You feel this?” He asked as he pushed his body harder into mine. His erection pressed into my stomach and I gasped. “I always want you. I could be in a different country lying under the stars and you would still be on my mind.”

“When you go away, I always worry that you won’t come back. Sometimes you’re away for weeks.”

“We’ve missed a lot of time, but I did the right thing by letting you get used to your life even if it was really fucking hard denying my feelings, denying you.  We're together now and you're not getting away.”

 “Mummy!” Katie called as she came barrelling out of the living room. Ryder moved away from me, but I stayed leaning against the wall, I still wasn’t sure my legs would support me.

“Yes, baby?”

Ryder grinned when he caught my eye, his short hair was messy from my fingers, but he looked in control of himself which was more than I could say for myself.

“Can I have another cookie please?”

“How many have you had already?”

“One,” She said it so sweetly.

Ryder laughed. “You had two while I was in here you little fibber.”

She looked at the floor, but not before I caught her grin. “OK, I’ve had four.”

“Four,” I exclaimed. “No more for you, your tummy will pop.”

“Mummy, don’t be silly. I don’t feel full; I could eat another hundred more and still feel good.”

Ryder threw his head back and laughed, I’m momentarily distracted by the sight of him and Katie used it to her advantage by grabbing a muffin off the side.

“Katie.” I scolded.

“You said I couldn’t have any more cookies, you didn’t say I couldn’t have a muffin.” She said matter of fact.

“She’s got you there.” Ryder piped up grinning.

When did my five-year-old become such a smart ass? She has her pouty face on, the one she knows will make me give in. I sighed. “Fine,” I watched her take a huge bite. “But you’re not allowed any more for a week.”

They both gasped together, and I rolled my eyes. “Two days.” I amended. I’d have to give the cakes away because she will sneak down in the middle of the night and scoff them. Ryder wasn’t having anymore either, he’s a bad influence. Who am I kidding; he has me wrapped around his finger as much as my daughter does.

“I’m sorry Mummy, but they are just so yummy.” She stuck it back in her mouth taking a huge bite before running into the living room again.

“Plate!” I shouted after her and she came scurrying in to get one.

When she’d gone Ryder stood next to me. “She’s a good girl, but she’s really cheeky.”

“I know,” I said smiling.

“I wouldn’t change her though.”

“Neither would I.”

“Her mother is doing a good job of bringing her up.”

“Thanks, but it’s not all me, her father helps too.”

“Not really, I mean, I know he has her on the weekends, but she’s all you. From her manners to her sweetness to her loving ways, she’s all you, Lexi.”

I blushed feeling proud. “Thanks.”

“You’re going to get used to compliments.”

“I am?”

“Oh yeah, every day I’m going to give you one. We’ll work on the way you see yourself and when I’m finished, you’ll know how beautiful you are.”

“You make me feel beautiful,” I admitted.

“That’s because you are.” He kissed my head, the caress of his lips made me shiver. “I need to go, I have a few things to look into, but I’ll be over first thing in the morning.”

“You will?”

“Yeah, I will. Katie’s off school so I’m going to take you out for the day unless you’d rather spend the day just you and her?”

I shook my head. “Katie will love spending the day with you.”

He raised his eyebrows.

“I will too.”

“That’s what I want to hear. I’ll bring breakfast about eight.”

“I can cook.” I offered.

“No, Lexi tomorrow is all about relaxing and you hate cooking. I’ll grab something from the diner.”

“I won’t complain about that.”

“Great, I’ll see you in the morning. Sweet dreams.” He said softly.

“Goodnight Ryder.”

He watched me for a long moment before he turned to leave and I wondered what he’d read on my face. I’d never been good at hiding my emotions.

I listened to him telling Katie he’d see her in the morning and I heard the excitement in her voice when he told her we were going out for the day. The front door opened and then closed and I heard him tap the door. With a smile I walked to the front door and locked it, sliding the safety chain on as well, as he waited like he usually did. He nodded at me through the window and the sound of his footsteps told me he was moving down my porch steps. I drew the curtain across the door and then went into the living room and drew those curtains too. I hated the thought of people being able to see in our home, we might be surrounded by trees, but it still felt open at night. I sat down next to Katie and she immediately crawled into my lap.

I ran my hands through her hair gently knowing she loved it while she watched her cartoons. The thought of her going off to her father’s house next week made me want to cry. Julian’s behaviour was so out of character, I never thought he’d ever lay a finger on me, but he’d come close.  I was glad Ryder banned him from the house, but Julian not being close meant I couldn’t try to find out what the hell was going on. I needed to speak to Ryder tomorrow and see what he thought about letting her go to Julian’s house. He’s a detective; he must have some idea of people like Julian, people who’d suddenly changed personalities overnight.

Today had been the oddest day I’d had in a long time, maybe even ever. I have a crazy ex-husband, a daughter who’s determined to look like a cookie and a next door neighbour who has suddenly turned into a boyfriend, a partner, a lover? I wasn’t sure what he was, but none of the words sounded right to describe Ryder. He was too much of a man to be called a boyfriend, he is much too bossy to be called a partner and lover meant being intimate and we hadn’t been, yet.

Katie watched one more cartoon before it was time to go to bed. “Come on Katie, baby, time to put our pyjamas on.”

She yawned even as she opened her mouth to tell me she wasn’t tired. I hid a smile and waited until she sat up to turn the television off using the remote. I followed her slowly up the stairs; her little legs betrayed how tired she really was. While I helped her get ready for bed she chattered on about tomorrow and how excited she was to spend time with Ryder, I had to admit I felt exactly the same.

Lexi

The light streaming through my open blinds woke me up. Immediately the events of yesterday came to mind. While I’d helped Katie to dress ready for bed, I’d thought about Ryder, about his words to me, his actions and what he’d said to Julian. He'd protected me, no one had ever done that before, not that I’d needed them too, but still. I found I couldn’t pinpoint how I felt because I had so many emotions running through me. A night of sleep hadn’t helped me either. I still felt confused. Looking at the clock I saw it was seven already. Panic hit because Ryder said he was coming at eight and I wanted to make sure I looked good. What should I wear, my usual jeans and top, or skirt and blouse? I shook my head. I didn’t even know what we were doing yet and besides Ryder would get a shock if I dressed up.

“Mummy,” I heard Katie call, and I relaxed. I needed normal and there was nothing more normal than my little girl. She was late waking up this morning; usually, she woke me up around six.

“I’m awake baby,” I called knowing she’d hear me. I heard her bare feet padding along the floor before she pushed my door open and ran in giggling.

“We’re going out with Ryder today.” She practically shouted at me.

“We sure are.”

“I can’t wait.”

I knew that feeling. “Me neither.”

She curled into my side for a quick hug and pulled away to cup my face. “I love Ryder; he loves blueberry muffins like me.”

Grinning, I pushed her hair from her eyes. “He loves you too.”

“I know, Mummy.” She said seriously. “He loves you, do you love him?”

Do I love him? He could be the ugliest person in the world and I would still love him. I couldn’t tell her this because who in their right mind fell in love with someone who up until last night had never even kissed me.

“Mummy?”

“Everyone loves Ryder baby. Now shall we get dressed because he’s bringing breakfast?”

“I love Ryder’s breakfasts.” She exclaimed as she started jumping on my bed in excitement.

“Of course you do, it’s a breakfast of sugar and sweet treats, who doesn’t love that?”

“Daddy doesn’t.”

“Your daddy doesn’t like to eat sweet things.”

“Blueberry pancakes are my favourite.”

“And Ryder’s,” I added.

“That’s why I love him; he always brings my favourite things.”

“I know now jump down so we can brush our teeth and get dressed.”

“Ok.”

I smiled. “You’re such a good girl.”

At a quarter to eight, we were both sat on the sofa dressed and waiting for Ryder. Katie was both bouncing with excitement and watching cartoons while I finished my second cup of coffee. Movement caught my eye, and I looked at the front door, with the curtain open, I had a clear view of Ryder and it was enough to stop my breath. He’s wearing a red shirt which hugged his torso, showing off his amazing body, his jeans looked worn and fit him like a second skin showing off his muscular thighs. I couldn’t wait until he turned around so I could get a look at his bum, the sight might actually make me swoon. As I unlocked the door, I let my eyes wander over his face and his lazy smile nearly had me melting into a puddle. My face filled with heat at being caught ogling him. He grinned while he pushed the door open the rest of the way and pulled me to him.

“Good morning honey, did you sleep well?”

“Yes.” I nearly stammered. It was a struggle to rein in the desire I felt for him. Just his presence was making me think of us in bed together. Graphic images ran through my mind and I shook myself mentally to clear them. I read too much erotic romance because some of those thoughts were X-rated.

“I didn’t, all I could think about was you and that kiss. Fuck, it was hot.” He whispered in my ear causing a shiver to run all the way to my toes. I wanted to kiss him, I find myself staring at his lips. His face moved closer to mine, but I heard footsteps and I turned in time to see Katie coming towards us.

“Ryder, did you get breakfast?”

“Sure did darling.”

He let me go with obvious reluctance and I moved to close the door behind us.

“Blueberry pancakes?” Katie asked.

He held out a bag to her, and she squealed. “I couldn’t let my favourite girl down could I?”

Katie grabbed the bag and ran straight into the kitchen. I could hear her opening the cupboard getting herself a plate.

“We’ll finish this later Lex.”  He promised and kissed me lightly on my lips before he followed Katie.

I let out a breath, I was right his bum did look good, really, really good. I pulled myself out of the daze it sent me in and hurried to the kitchen because if I wasn’t quick enough they’d eat all the food and I’d have to settle for toast. Ryder smiled as I perched on a stool at the counter. He placed a cup of coffee in front of me and an empty plate before he took a seat beside me.

“Butterscotch pancakes?” He offered.

“They are my favourite, thank you.”

“They look yucky Mummy.”

I turned to look at my daughter and laughed. Her mouth was purple from the berries and she was frowning at my plate.

“They’re nice, why don’t you try some?”

She shook her head. “There’s nothing hiding in them. They’re boring.”

“They aren’t boring.”

“They do look a bit boring.” Ryder agreed with her and they shared a look before ramming more pancakes into their mouths.

“What are we doing today?” I asked Ryder once all the pancakes were gone.

“I’m thinking the park and a picnic?”

“Sounds perfect,” It’s what I had planned yesterday before Julian ruined things.

“The weather looks warm and we can take a ball.”

I love football, but I’m not very good at it.

Katie frowned. “Tammy said I shouldn’t play football because it’s a boy’s game.”

My anger is instant and my grip tightened on my cup. How could Tammy be so bloody stupid? Katie has always loved football, it’s pretty much the only sport she does like and for Tammy to say it’s only for boys is ridiculous. Before I can find words to explain that she’s wrong Ryder spoke.

“Katie, do you have fun when you play football?”

“Yes.”

“As long as you have fun you can play whenever you want. Did you know that girls play professionally?”

She shook her head. “They do? Are they good?”

“Yes, as good as the boys are. They win trophies too. Anyone can play football baby.”

Katie smiled and I could see she believed him. “Ok.”

I wanted to wring Tammy’s neck for saying what she did. I’ve always given Katie a choice in what she wants to do and that won’t change.

“Besides, you need to teach your mummy because every time I see you play in the garden she falls over.” He winked at me and I blushed in embarrassment, I can’t believe he’d seen me do that.

“I don’t always fall over,” I muttered.

He snickered knowing I was fibbing.

Katie giggled. “Yes, you do Mummy, but it’s Ok because we will help you, won’t we Ryder?”

“Yeah, we will.” He agreed with her before he turned to look at me. “It doesn’t matter how many times you fall, baby, I’ll always be around to pick you up.”

I didn’t miss the double meaning of his words or the seriousness of his expression.

“I know,” I said truthfully. I had no doubts about it. Whether I was on the floor because I missed kicking the ball or because my ex-husband had again used our daughter to hurt me, he would be there.

“Eat up and we’ll go. It’s pretty chilly still so you’ll need coats.”

“Ok Ryder,” Katie said with a mouth full of food. I'd usually remind her not to talk while she’s chewing, but I let it go because quite frankly I couldn’t tear my eyes away from Ryder.

“I’ll drive. Which park do you want to go to?”

We had two parks in the village. One of them had a big red slide which Katie loved. She told him that before I could.

“The red one?” he questioned.

“It’s the one on Compton road.”

“Ah the red slide, I should have guessed that one.”

“The slide is huge and mummy lets me go down on my own now.” She informed him with a grin before jumping down from where she sat to go into the living room.

“You let her go down it on her own? I bet you panic the whole time don’t you?”

“Yes, every time.”

“That’s what makes you a good mother Lex, that and a thousand other reasons.”

His compliment warmed me. “I’ll go and make sure she has her coat on.”

“You do that and I’ll clear up.”

“I can do it later.”  I protested. “You brought breakfast; it’s not fair for you to clear up too.”

“Lex, I’ll do it.”

I opened my mouth to argue, but the finger he placed on my lips silenced me.

“Don’t argue because you won’t win. Go and check on Katie.”

I turned to do as I’m told resisting the urge to lick my lips when I’m suddenly pulled back by my arm. “I almost forgot,” Ryder told me before his lips touched mine. My thoughts dissolved as his tongue swept into my open mouth to caress my tongue. My knees went weak, and I lifted my hands to his shoulders gripping tightly to keep myself upright. When the kiss ended I was gasping for breath, he was too. I rested my cheek on his chest and waited for my body to calm down.

“Sorry baby, I only meant to give you a brief kiss, but I can’t help myself. As soon as our lips touch I want to rip all your clothes off. I’m lucky I have some kind of control although if we’d have carried on much longer I don’t know if I could have pulled back.”

“I feel the same way.”

“I know.” He grinned ripping a breathless laugh from me.

“Arrogant much?”

“No, baby I’m not arrogant I just know you and besides your body is still trembling.”

“So is yours,” I pointed out.

“Yes, it sure is and I’m so hard I could cut diamonds.” He said with a grimace.

“Maybe you should let me go, that might help.”

“Holding you or not Lex I’ll still be hard. I get hard just looking at you.”

“I think that’s the nicest thing you’ve ever said to me.” I teased.

“Prepare for more nice words because even after we’ve made love a dozen times I still don’t think I’ll be able to control myself.”

“Wow.” I’ve never felt so desirable in my life.

“Stop looking at me like that else we’ll have to explain the birds and the bees to Katie sooner than we should.”

I dropped my eyes. He was right, I wanted to rip his clothes off and take him into my body. I knew he could read the thoughts on my face and normally I would be embarrassed, but I wasn’t. “I’ll get Katie ready.” My voice was husky, and I coughed to clear my throat.

“Good idea. I could do with a cold shower but I’ll make do with some fresh air, I’ll meet you at the car.”

I nodded. I took a few deep breaths before I called Katie and when she didn’t answer I went in search of her finding her watching cartoons. “What happened to getting your coat?”

“Sorry Mummy. I love this one.” She said pointing at the television.

“Ryder’s waiting outside.”

“Oh cool.” She turned off the TV and grabbed her coat. “Come on Mummy, let’s go.” She squealed as she ran out the front door towards the car.

I pulled my coat and scarf out of the cupboard under the stairs as well as Katie’s football and headed out the front door locking it behind me. As I got closer to the car, I saw Katie leaning forward singing along to whatever song was playing on the radio, Ryder had a huge smile on his face and his gaze on her was filled with warmth. My heart stuttered. The love he has for my daughter is plain to see. He’s been a part of our life for a long time, things have always been friendly between us, but with Katie, he’s really bonded. I love that she has that with him and that she is so comfortable with him. I know if anything serious did happen between Ryder and me, and it’s pointing that way, she will be happy.  She questioned if her dad still loved her when he remarried. She’d seen all of her friend’s mums and dads together and thought it was her fault me and her dad didn’t live together. I suppose every child worried it was their fault, but it hurt me that she did. With Julian married to Tammy, she’d thought he couldn’t love her anymore and that he didn’t have enough love for them both. Julian and I explained that it wasn’t true and eventually she settled and she seemed happy now. I hoped she always would be.

 

                                                                    ****

Football is a chore. I’ll never be good at it. I don’t know how Katie has so much talent because she definitely doesn’t get it from either of her parents. Julian doesn’t like getting dirty. I looked down at my grass-stained knees with a grimace; I had a feeling my bum was just as bad. What was wrong with me?  I’m not usually so clumsy but give me a football and I turn into a complete klutz.

“It’s not that bad Lexi, you only fell twice. From what I’ve seen that’s a new record.” Ryder laughed at the disgust on my face. “Usually it’s three or four. Come to think of it I think I’ve seen you do it five times when it’s been windy.”

“I’m not that bad.” I protested feeling grumpy now.

“Yes, baby you are. How someone can be so bad at one thing I don’t know, but you are.”

“I suppose you’re good at everything?” I said with a heavy dose of sarcasm.

He shrugged. “I haven’t found anything I’m bad at.”

“You're such an arrogant man. We’ll find something.”

“You can try, it might be fun. Being good at everything has its advantages, for instance, I’m really good at kissing and I really want to kiss you right now.”

“I’ve had better.”

“Even if I didn’t see your fingers crossed, I’d know you were fibbing baby, your response to me gives you away. You love my kisses.”

Damn it he’s right, but I wasn’t going to admit it.

“Should I prove it?”

“Why don’t you?” I dared quietly.

He smiled, and it screamed sex. My legs locked, and I watched in anticipation as he stalked towards me. By the time he reached me my breath was seesawing out of me so fast I was afraid I might faint. His hand grabbed the back of my head and he used the leverage to pull me closer. My eyes closed as his head dipped down to mine. I lifted my hands to his waist and gripped his shirt tightly. His tongue caressed my bottom lip, and I gasped at the sensation. I was so caught up in him; in his scent that when I heard Katie calling me it took me a moment to come back down to earth. Ryder pulled away from me but quickly put his hands out to steady me as I wobbled. He grinned at the effect he had on me.

“Yes, Katie?” I called in a voice I didn’t recognise.

“Can Ryder stay for dinner?”

I looked at Ryder and grinned. “Of course, he can if he wants to.”

“I definitely want to stay.” He answered and the look he gave me left me in no doubt he wasn’t talking about food.

I nodded. “I’ll make lasagne then, that Ok?” I asked loud enough so Katie could hear too.

They both agreed. They loved food. If I ate as much as they did, I’d be constantly exercising. Talking of exercise…

“I’m going to ring Julian and ask him to have a word with Tammy. She had no right to tell Katie she shouldn’t play football.”

“Do you think it will do any good?”

I sighed. “Probably not, but I can’t let it go, you saw how upset Katie was. What if Tammy starts telling her she shouldn’t do other things?”

“Yeah, I know but it seems to me he has other things going on which will take priority.”

“What do you mean?” I asked in confusion. What could he know about Julian that I didn’t?

He sighed. “I’ve been looking into him. After he nearly hit you and you said that it’s completely out of character, it got me thinking, people don’t change that much and if they do, it’s usually because of some bad reason so I had a friend pull his details.”

“Why?”

“I won’t have you or Katie in danger Lex and he looked like a madman. Only a desperate man changes like he has over night.”

“Have you found anything?”

“There are a couple of things my guy flagged. I’m going to see him tomorrow.”

“You’re leaving?” Why did I suddenly feel sick?

“I have a few things to sort out, but once they’re done, I’m free to stay here until I decide to leave. I won’t be gone long maybe three day’s tops.”

“Ok.” I nodded, I turned to the fridge to get the ingredients I needed for lasagne. I didn’t understand my feelings, he kissed me yesterday and suddenly I can’t bear to be away from him? I felt silly.

“Lex, don’t be upset.”

“I’m not.”

“No?”

“To be honest, I’m not sure how I feel. I mean, we aren’t together so you don’t need my permission and I have no right to be upset that you’re leaving.”

I was still staring in the fridge blankly when Ryder gently pulled me back with his hands on my shoulders until my body was flush against his. He wrapped his arms around my waist.

“First off Lexi, you have every right to be upset; do you not listen to me at all? We are together you are my woman and I wouldn’t be leaving if I didn’t have to.”

I’m lost for words so I nodded. He turned me around and when he saw my tear-stained face he grinned before using his thumbs to wipe my cheeks. “What am I going to do with you?”

“It’s your fault, you’re just so sweet.”

“Sweet?” he shook his head. “Lexi, I’m not sweet at all.”

“You are, but don’t worry it will be our little secret,” I whispered.

“You won’t be alone while I’m gone. I have your house under surveillance.”

Alarm ran through me. “Why?”

“I have a bad feeling about Julian and until I have all the facts, I’m not comfortable leaving you and Katie unprotected.”

“See,” I said with a smile, “Sweet.”

“Not sweet baby, I’m doing what any man would do, I’m protecting my own. If anyone tries to do anything to either one of you, they will see a side of me I don’t unleash very often.”

I’m shocked, but not afraid. I know I will never see that side of him. “I’m sure we’ll be fine Ryder.”

“Of course you will be, neither of you will be alone.”

“What do you mean?”

“Eric will be watching you both from my house.”

“Who is Eric?”

“He’s a friend of mine a very good one.”

“Ok. How will he be watching us from there?”

“He’ll be watching the cameras.”

“The what?” I screeched looking around me.

Ryder laughed at my reaction. “Baby, I haven’t installed them yet. I wasn’t planning on telling you but there is no way around it, you have to know they are there. I knew you wouldn’t like the idea of being watched.”

“No one would like the idea of being watched.”

“Maybe so, but you have no choice.”

“Don’t you think you’re overreacting? I mean other than Julian acting like a tool nothing has happened.”

He cupped my face gently forcing me to look into his eyes. “My hunches are always right. I know Julian is mixed up in something and while I can’t be with you I’m going to make sure you and Katie are safe.”

I opened my mouth feeling slightly scared now, but he placed his finger over my lips. “Please don’t fight me.”

I licked my dry lips and in the process, I licked the tip of his finger. His eyes darkened and his finger dropped.  “I won’t fight you if it gives you peace of mind I’ll go along with it. Besides, I don’t have a choice do I?”

“Not really, thank you, baby.” He kissed my head.

“No cameras in the bathroom,” I ordered. “No one gets to see me showering.”

“I would kill anyone who tried; the cameras will be in every room, but there.”

“Surely not in our bedrooms?” I exclaimed. I won’t be able to get dressed in there or anything. The lack of privacy in my own house made me feel ill.

“You’re at your most vulnerable when you’re sleeping. I’m not arguing with you about this.”

“I’m not having someone watch me sleep. Oh god, they’ll see me get dressed and undressed.”

“No, they won’t. Eric will have the cameras set to only come on when there is movement at night. It means once you’re asleep it will go dark unless you get out of bed or someone comes in.”

I’m relieved at that but, “I’m not having someone watch me dress.”

He reached my face and held it between his palms. “Do you really think I would let someone watch that? God Lex, I haven’t even seen all of your gorgeous body yet and I’m certainly not going to let anyone else ever see that sight. You’ll both have to change in the bathroom.”

“I never thought of that,” I admitted.

“It’s a good job I did then.”

“Mummy, I’m hungry,” Katie told me as she popped her head round the door.

“I’d better get tea on then.” I smiled.

“I could eat a cookie.”

“No you could not, you ate more than enough yesterday.”

She frowned. “Ryder might like one.”

“No, I wouldn’t. I’m looking forward to your mummy’s lasagne. I don’t want to ruin my appetite.”

“I guess so.”

“Good. Can you set the table ready please?”

“Yes, Mummy,” She turned but swung around again to look at me. “Why was Ryder holding your face?”

I blushed, I actually blushed at her words and I’ve never been a good liar so I looked at Ryder helplessly for an answer.

“Your mummy had something in her eye,” Ryder said with a grin.

“Oh. That happens to Tammy a lot, Daddy is always helping her.”

I shared a look with Ryder trying not to laugh.

“When I’ve set the table can I show Ryder the new library book I borrowed from school please?”

“Sure baby, it will easier for me to do tea without you guys in here.”

“Come on then Katie, I’ll help you with the table then your mummy can cook tea quicker.”

I picked out the ingredients I needed and closed the fridge. I watched them laughing together with a smile.

I still remember the time I was still so hung up on my ex-husband even after what he’d done to me that a comment about him helping Tammy when she had something in her eye would have hurt me. Now I can chuckle about it and it felt good.

Well, it did until I thought of Katie in danger. Julian being mixed up in something dangerous just didn’t seem real, but Ryder wouldn’t lie to me. I trusted Ryder to keep us safe and if he trusts his friend Eric, then I will too. What if Ryder finds out more bad information when he goes back? He says his hunches are always right. I pray just this once that he’s wrong.

While I put the lasagne in the oven and prepped the salad, I listened to Ryder and Katie talk. She was so relaxed with him; it made me wonder if she was the same with her dad. He’s so very different to Ryder, Julian is straight-laced hard to please and judgemental, something Ryder isn’t. I wonder if he thought the same as his wife did about girls playing football. We’ve never spoken about it but I can imagine he wasn’t happy about it either although Katie has never once said he has told her not to play.

The timer buzzed on the cooker letting me know tea was ready; I pulled the lasagne out of the oven and sniffed in appreciation. I was starving; I couldn’t remember the last time I felt so hungry. I called them and heard their footsteps approach the kitchen.

“Can someone get the drinks please?” I asked.

“Sure.” Ryder grabbed three glasses and put them on the table then went to the fridge to pull the jug of water out. “Would you rather have wine?”

I shook my head. Ryder and wine would be a dangerous combination, who knew what I might do.

He grinned like he’d read my mind. “I’ll behave.” He teased.

“I’d better not.”

“Don’t trust yourself, huh?”

“Something like that.”

“Here, I’ll do that, you take the salad.” He took the oven gloves off me and carried the dish to the table placing it on the heat protective tray.

“Thanks,” I said as I sat down.

He cut the lasagne and shared it out. We ate in silence except for the occasional grunt of pleasure, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. It was actually kind of nice. I pushed my plate away after eating more than enough. Ryder and Katie polished theirs off pretty quickly and went for seconds.

“Pudding?” Katie asked hopefully. It amazed me how much my five-year-old could eat.

“Under the kitchen sink in the pink plastic box,” I'd hidden them there so she couldn’t eat them all this morning.

“You know what to do kid,” Ryder said and she jumped out of her chair and almost ran to the cupboard.

“How can either of you have room for anything else?” I groaned. They made me feel sick.

“Easy Lex, I always have room for your blueberry muffins.”

“Ah sweet.” I grinned.

He groaned. “I’m not sweet.”

“Sorry, you’re not sweet you’re a tough badass.”

He smirked. “You think I’m a badass?”

I rolled my eyes, “Me and every woman in the world.”

“The only woman who matters is you.”

And he denies that he’s sweet? This man could bring me to tears so easily.

“Ryder, there are five. How will we share them?” Katie said.

“Two and a half each, baby.”

“Yummy.” She had the paper off one before she even sat down.

“I’ll make coffee,” I told them as I got up to clear the table. Ryder was taking a huge bite out of a muffin and I laughed at his expression. I didn’t do anything special to the muffins, in fact, it’s a basic recipe, but the way he loved them you’d be forgiven for thinking they were made with magic. I, myself, preferred chocolate chip ones but I never make them. Instead, I buy pre-packed ones from the supermarket. If I made a batch, I would have to eat them all myself.

“Mummy cooks these yummyly.” I heard Katie tell Ryder. Yummyly, was that even a word?

“She sure does. Best muffins ever.” I heard Ryder reply, and I was filled with pride.

I made the coffee and took Ryder a cup. They were just finishing eating and as usual, Katie had most of hers around her mouth, I saw Ryder hadn’t done much better. I pulled the baby wipes out of the drawer and passed them one each. Ryder gave me a sheepish look before he wiped his mouth.

“They were great Lex; do you have any more for the ride?”

“What ride?” Katie asked him.

“I’ve got to go back to work, but I’ll be back when you come home from your daddy’s.”

She looked sad, and I felt exactly the same. “Can you read me a story tonight please?” her request shocked me. She’d never asked him before, in fact, I didn’t think she’s ever asked her daddy to read to her either.

“Sure baby, I’d love to,” Ryder said and his voice sounded odd. Her request had shocked him too, but if the light in his eyes was anything to go by, he liked it.

I sipped my coffee in silence worry played on my mind that they were getting too attached but then I reminded myself they were close before we’d kissed.

“I’ll go and get ready for bed and I’ll shout when I’m ready.” She kissed my cheek as she walked past me and out of the room.

Ryder turned serious eyes to me. “Do you mind if I read her story? I probably should have asked you before I agreed.”

I shook my head, “Not at all.”

“You’re sure?”

“I’m sure. She loves you.”

“I love her too.”

“I know that’s why I’m Ok with it.”

“She’s a great little girl. You should be proud.”

“I am, she’s my world.”

“I’m ready,” Katie called downstairs.

“That’s the fastest she’s ever got ready for bed.”

Ryder chuckled. “Maybe you should check on her first. She probably hasn’t brushed her teeth.”

“Oh, I already know she hasn’t brushed her teeth.” It was always a battle to get her to brush them.

I rinsed our cups out and headed up the stairs with Ryder right behind me. I found myself wiggling my bum more than usual. He muttered something under his breath and I grinned.

Katie’s door was wide open. She was sat on her bed in her pyjamas. “Have you brushed your teeth?”

“No.”

“Go and do them then please,” I ordered gently.

She got up and huffed.

“She hates brushing her teeth. I even bought her an electric toothbrush, but the novelty ran out after a couple of days.”

“No kid likes brushing their teeth, I hated it.”

“I didn’t.”

“Why am I not surprised?”

“I’m all done.” Katie bared her teeth to me as she walked in.

“Good girl. Have you chosen a book?”

“Yes, this one.” She held her favourite one up and I grinned. We read it every night. It’s about a little boy who loses his toys before bed and wanders his house trying to find them.

“Jump into bed then.” I tucked her in, and she snuggled down into the duvet. Ryder picked up the book and sat on the floor by the bed. I kissed Katie goodnight and went out the door leaving it open a jar so I could stand outside and listen. Ryder surprised me; he read just like I did, he put on a voice for each character making Katie giggle. When he came to the end of the book, I watched him through the door as he reached over to kiss Katie’s head and turn the light off. He stepped out of the door and we nearly collided.

“You’re good.” I grinned. “Katie loved you reading to her.”

“I told you I’m good at everything.”

“I guess you are.”

We walked down the stairs and Ryder took my hand and led me to the living room. He sat on the sofa and pulled me down to sit next to him. “I noticed the photo of you and Julian holding Katie when she was born.”

“Yeah, it’s the only photo of the three of us on display. When Katie is old enough, she can have the other photos I’ve kept for her.”

“You look so happy in it.” He stated.

“I was. It was a long hard labour and when she finally came I was exhausted, but feeling her little fingers wrap around mine was the most amazing thing to ever happen to me.”

“Do you ever think of having more children?”

“Yes I have, but I don’t like men and unfortunately it’s impossible to make a baby without them.”

“You like me.”

“I do like you.” I agreed.

“I’ve always wanted a son, you know to play football, go fishing with, that kind of thing, but I’d be happy with a girl too. Katie does all those things.”

“Yeah, she does.”

“Once we've sorted the Julian situation out, we'll talk about this again.”

“This?” He was confusing me.

“Us having babies, we’d have to marry first of course; I don’t like the idea of my children not having my name.”

I gawked at him in disbelief. Ryder used his finger to close my open mouth.

“You can’t be shocked. Where did you think this was going?”

“The bedroom,” I blurted out without thinking and his eyes clouded over. I’d insulted him and I hadn’t meant to. I hurried to explain.

“Up until yesterday we hadn’t even kissed and now you’re talking about marriage and babies. I didn’t even know you thought of me like that so forgive me for not thinking ahead.”

“I’ll forgive you if you’ll marry me.” I searched his face and his fierce expression told me he wasn’t joking. I was speechless. “We’ve wasted enough time. I’ll give you a month to get used to it, but that’s all. I want you as my wife, and I want Katie and you in my life permanently.”

Wow. Butterflies assaulted my tummy and my palms felt clammy. I wasn’t sure if I was happy or if I felt sick from his bombshell.

“Do you agree?”

It sounds like it mattered that I did even though he’d basically acted like our marriage was a given. “I agree, but it’s very fast Ryder.”

“In a month you won’t feel like it is.”

 “Maybe.”

“Trust me. I need to go and get the cameras so I can install them.”

I tensed. “I’m still not happy about that.”

“But you’ll let me put them in, won’t you?”

I sighed. “I’ve already agreed, but that doesn’t mean I’m happy.”

“I know and I appreciate you letting me put them up so I know you’re safe.”

“I think I should get a kiss for being such a good sport.”

“It will be my pleasure.” He grinned, and a dimple popped out.

His lips came down on mine and my whole body sighed. His hands settled on my waist and his fingers gently brushed the underside of my breasts. A shudder ripped through me and Ryder reluctantly pulled back from me. “I wish we had more time.” He whispered.

“Me too.”

“I have to go.” He stood up and pulled me up with him and my eyes lovingly ran over his face and I smiled at his hair. I didn’t remember messing his hair up, but I obviously had.

“Ok.” I sighed.

“I’m not going to tell you where I’m installing the cameras. I don’t want you to give their location away by accident if something should happen. Just know that there will be one in every room and hallway except for the bathroom just like I’ve already told you.”

“I’ll remember.”

“And you’ll remember to get changed in the bathroom, Katie too.”

“Yes. I’ll remember. I don’t want anyone to see my naked body.” I shuddered.

“Good. I don’t want anyone to see your naked body but me. Now give me a kiss and I can get on with installing them. Are you having a bath before bed?”

“That’s the plan.”

“If you go now, I’ll have them all in before you come out.”

“You’ll do it that fast?” I asked amazed.

“Lex, you spend at least two hours in the bath.”

“That is true.” I agreed.

“Take your nightie and robe in there.”

“Yes, sir.” I saluted with a grin.

He grinned and tapped my bum as he walked towards the door. “Goodnight baby. I’ll call you when I have more information.”

“I’ll look forward to it.”

He gave me a look and then his eyes slid down my body and back up to my face. “Me too, you have no idea how much.”

My cheeks warmed. “Wait, how will you get back in?”

“I have my ways.”

“Wouldn’t you rather have a key?”

He held up his hands as if to ward me off. “Whoa, don’t you think that’s a big step?”

“But you were going on about marriage earlier,” I said bewildered.

He chuckled. “I meant it’s a big step for you, Lex. Are you sure you’re ready?”

I rolled my eyes. “There’s a spare key hanging up above the drawer to the left of you.”

His big hand gripped the ribbon it hung on and he tucked it into his pocket. “Thanks. Go take your bath.”

“It would be better if you were sharing it,” I said and blushed.

“Of course it would be, but we don’t have the time baby and I get the feeling you’re not ready for that just yet.”

“You’re probably right, but it’s a nice thought.”

“Next time Lex. That’s a promise.”

“I’ll hold you to that. Goodnight.”

“Night, night,” He went out the door closing it behind him without looking back and I got the feeling he’d had to force himself to do it. I’d just in a roundabout way issued an invitation to share my bath and even though I knew he’d wanted to take me up on it he’d put my feelings first. He knew me better than I knew myself.

I headed to my bedroom and grabbed everything I needed to get dressed for bed. Closing the door I chose lavender bath salts knowing I’d need all the help I could get to fall asleep tonight. It wouldn’t be easy because I was going to miss him a lot, I always did, but this time it was different. I now know how he kisses, how he tastes. Julian never had this effect on me; he couldn’t turn me on just by looking at me. Who knew things could change so much in such a short space of time? Ryder used to pop in when he was home, he’d eat my cakes play with Katie and help around the house. He'd tease me and flirt with me, but I’d always assumed he was like that with everyone. It turns out I was wrong and I’ve never been so glad to be wrong in my life.

 

Ryder

“Fuck, its bad isn’t it?” I asked David knowing just from his face I was right.

“It’s not good news, dude.”

“Really, fuck.” I sat heavily in a chair. “Tell me.”

“Julian decided he didn’t have enough problems with a shopaholic wife and maxed out credit cards so he got himself mixed up in a hard-core poker game.”

I stared at him in disbelief, “A poker game?”

“I’m afraid so. When he lost a lot of money and realising, he was in a predicament he borrowed from a loan shark. He lost that money too and didn’t have any to repay the guy. The guy he's borrowed off is the kind that dishes it out and demands double back.”

I scoffed. “Don’t they all do that?”

He nodded. “This one has a reputation for breaking bones but never going after the family of the client. He’s a straight shooter.”

“That’s good isn’t it?”

“It was good.”

“Was?” I didn’t like where this was going.

“It was good until the guy realised Julian was using his wife and daughter as shields. He never left his house without one of them so they couldn’t get to him. That pissed him off.”

“Son of a bitch,” I swore.

“I know. Ryder, sit down.”

I hadn’t realised I’d stood up. I sat back down in the chair fuming. Julian is a rat, a dirty little rat, and I’d like to kick the shit out of him. I couldn’t believe he would use Katie like that. It made sense now why he’d kept her for another night. He was using her to save his ass, his own fucking daughter.

“I need you to keep calm, there’s more. Ok?”

“I’m calm, or as calm as I’m going to get. Keep talking.”

“The loan shark sold his debt to Jacobson at Casino, Casino.”

There was no need for David to explain the consequences of that. I stood and pulled my phone out of my pocket. “I need to ring Eric to tighten security on Lexi and Katie. They aren’t safe now. Jacobson is a bastard, a sick bastard, and he doesn’t care who he has to hurt to get his money back.”

“I’ve already called Eric. He’s pulled in a couple of his pals to help. He’s going to be staying on her sofa.”

I relaxed slightly. I knew Eric will protect them. My heart was still pounding, and I felt sick. I’ve been in some fucked up situations before where I should have been scared but knowing my girls were in danger beat everything. I felt helpless even though I knew I wasn’t. No fucker was going to get their hands on them.

“Julian owes a lot of money; we’re talking about enough to buy a five-bedroom house with no mortgage. He’s been seen going into Casino, Casino and it isn’t to plead his case.

“He’s trying to win back his money?” I asked in disbelief. Didn’t he realise he was a shit gambler?

“Looks like it, but he’s either really shit or the staff have orders to do him over.”

“Jacobson has to know what’s going on in his own house which means he has a plan.”

“That’s what I’m thinking. Jacobson needs something from Julian and this will be his leverage.”

“This explains Julian’s behaviour. Lex said it was out of character for him. The bastard nearly put his hands on her.” I’ll never forget how scared she looked or how much her body was shaking with her fear. My fists clenched.

“The girls will be in sight at all times. I have a couple of acquaintances who are working hard to find something on Jacobson. Unfortunately, it’s hard and it could take some time. Hopefully, they will find out what he wants from Julian. Short of killing Jacobson the only thing we can do is put him away.

“I owe you, David.”

“No, I owe you more than I can repay.”

“You don’t owe me anything.”

“I do but I know you’ll never admit it. I have your back, we all have your back.”

“I’m grateful. The girls mean everything to me.”

“I know. We all knew when you first met her by the way you spoke about her.”

I shook my head in disgust. “I wasted time worrying I would put them in danger and it happened, anyway. I have some paperwork to do on my open cases then I’m going home.”

“I figured you would be. I have Swift coming in to cover you.”

“I was going to ring him. Thanks.”

He shrugged. “It’s one less thing for you to worry about.”

“Thanks,” I repeated.

“Stop thanking me Ryder, you’d do the same for any of us.”

“That goes without saying,” I said. My phone vibrated in my hand and I smiled when I saw who was calling.

“Lexi,” I greeted.

“Ryder, I agreed to the cameras, but I did not agree to let a strange man barge in and tell me he is going to be sleeping on my sofa.” She sounded pissed, and it made me grin. It didn’t happen often but when she was mad, she was cute as hell. Before I could speak she started talking again, but this time it wasn’t to me. “I’m sorry, I’m sure you’re a very nice man.”

I chuckled. “I wouldn’t call Eric nice baby, it might go to his head.”

“It’s not funny, I’m not happy with this.”

“It’s for your protection baby, yours and Katie’s.”

“Has something happened?” Worry was clear in her voice and I hated it.

“I’ve found things that don’t look good, Lex.”

“What have you found out?” Her voice was hesitant, and I wished I didn’t have to tell her anything. Julian is her ex-husband, even though she doesn't love him anymore he’s still her child’s father. It’s going to be a blow especially as Katie is in danger.

“Julian owes money to a dangerous man. He’s put you and Katie in danger so until I’m back Eric is staying with you.”

“But I don’t know him.” She protested.

“I do and I trust him with my life which means I trust him with yours and Katie’s.”

There was a pause before she spoke. “If you trust him, then I guess I do.”

“That’s my girl,” I said with pride.

“What about Tammy?”

“Tammy?”

“If we are in danger doesn't that mean she is too?”

“I hadn’t thought of her.” Even after what that woman did to mine she was still thinking of her and worrying. “I’ll get someone to keep an eye on her but you and Katie are my priority.”

“I might dislike her but she doesn’t deserve to get hurt because Julian messed up.”

“I know baby, I’ll sort something out.”

“Thanks, Ryder, for everything.” She whispered.

“I’d do anything for you, Lex.”

“And I would do anything for you.”

“Anything, huh? I’ll have to have a think.” I teased startling a laugh from her.

“Should I have a think too?” she asked shyly.

“Why not, we could have some serious fun?” I loved her laugh; I’d missed it when I’d been away. “If you’re uncomfortable with Eric why don’t you invite Jen to stay?”

“I don’t want her to be in danger too.”

“If you give her the choice she will be over like a shot. I don’t think she is in danger but at least if she’s at your house Eric can keep an eye on her too.”

“I’ll think about it.”

“She’ll give Eric hell, think of the entertainment.”

She chuckled. “Yes, you’re right, Jen loves to flirt.”

“And Eric has sworn off women, it’ll be fun.”

“I’ll call her.”

“Good. I don’t want you moping around. Don’t send Katie to Julian’s. Make up some excuse as to why you’re not. We don’t want him to know we know anything yet.”

“Ok, but he’s going to kick off,” she said worriedly.

“Eric is there sweetness. He won’t allow Julian to hurt either of you, it will be fine.”

“You sound so sure, I wish I could be.”

“I’m sure because I trust Eric to keep you safe until I’m home and I know we are going to sort this out. Have faith baby and try not to worry. That’s my job.”

“I’ll try to stay positive.”

“Good. I’ll be back as soon as I can until then listen to Eric.”

“You’re so sweet.” She said quietly.

“Only for you, baby.”

“Not just with me, but I like that you think that. You’re a sweet guy Ryder; I really like that about you.”

“Ah baby, I miss you.”

I heard her breath catch. “See, sweet. I miss you too, so does Katie.”

“Tell her I miss her right back. I have to go now. Remember to get changed in the bathroom.”

“I won’t forget, trust me.”

“I’ll ring you soon. Be good.”

“Bye Ryder.” She said and then the connection dropped.

I allowed myself a grin before turning back to David. “Lex is worried about Tammy.”

“She’s some woman your Lexi. I can’t imagine many women caring about the welfare of the person who stole their husband.”

“Me neither, she’s one of a kind.”

“I’ll make sure someone is on Tammy. It’s a good job I’m rich otherwise this case would bankrupt me.” He said with a laugh, and I had to agree.

He wasn’t joking about being rich though, he could buy a small country a few times over with the amount he is worth. Instead, he runs a security firm helping people who the police can’t. He’s a good guy, another person who I trusted with my life. “I need to catch up so I can leave. I hate being away from Lexi.”

“You big softy, what happened to the badass who took out two drug dealers with his bare hands?”

“Oh, he’s still here he’s just realised there is more to life than danger and adrenaline.”

“I never thought I’d see the day. I’m pleased for you.”

“You should come and meet her, Katie too. They are both amazing.”

“That’s the picture you present of them. I’d love to meet them but let’s leave it until they are safe.”

“I shouldn’t have left it so long. I regret it even though I had reasons for doing it.”

“Sometimes it’s all about the timing.”

“Yeah and sometimes we just have to man up and take what you want.”

He smiled. “Ryder, you’re absolutely right there. It took me a long time to realise it with Chloe, but she’s the best thing to have ever happened to me.”

“I know how that goes. I’ll see you later, thanks for all your help.”

“No thanks necessary, do you fancy a beer tonight?”

“Sounds good, I’ll catch up with you later.” I closed the door behind me and put everything out of my mind except for the work I had to do. My girls were safe for now but I wanted to be with them. I need to get everything here wrapped up and find out as much as I can about Jacobson. There was no way I was leaving it all to David. I was going to take Jacobson down and make sure he couldn’t bounce back.

Lexi

I did what Ryder had suggested; I invited Jen to stay, and she accepted even knowing the danger. She had a few choice words about Julian when I gave her a brief explanation of what he’d done. She’d even sounded excited when I’d told her I had cameras in all the rooms of the house watching us and one of Ryder’s friends was staying with us. That all changed when she walked through the door and saw Eric. I’ve never seen someone blush red and then turn as pale as milk so fast. Now I was sat watching her make the drinks, Eric was watching her as well, and he had a strange look on his face, almost like regret. They knew each other that was obvious and whatever was between them isn’t good. Jen’s usual bubbly personality had gone and all I could see was sorrow. I hated it. I waited until she brought the tray in then I grabbed her hand.

“I have to show you my new dress. It’s so beautiful.” I was fibbing, they both knew it, but it was the only excuse I could think of. I almost dragged her out of the kitchen and through the living room.

“Katie, we’re just popping upstairs. Shout if you need me.” I told my daughter who barely looked up from her cartoons.

Jen opened her mouth to speak, but I shook my head and pulled her to my bathroom. No cameras spying in here. “Spill, honey,” I said gently and my bubbly, doesn’t let anything get to her best friend, burst out crying.

“Oh, baby,” I whispered as I put my arms around her in comfort. I’d never seen her cry before and my heart broke for her. I rubbed her back slowly, giving her the chance to pull herself together. She moved away, and I pushed some tissues into her hand.

“Want to talk about it?” I asked her.

She sniffed loudly and then plonked her bum on the closed toilet lid. “I’ve known Eric since I was about thirteen. He moved in next door to us and we became friends, best friends, then it changed into something more.” She paused to take a breath, and I took her hand sensing it was going to be hard for her. “One day he came to see me and told me he couldn’t see me anymore. It was completely out of the blue.”

“Oh Jen, I’m so sorry.” I gave her hand a squeeze.

“He didn’t give me a reason. He just kissed me one last time and then he walked out the door without looking back.”

“That’s it? He didn’t give say why he was doing it?”

“No, nothing, that was the worst of it because I never had closure. Was it me? Did I do something wrong or did he meet someone else? I loved him so much.”

It was obvious she still did. “I’m sorry, honey. Do you want to leave? I totally understand if you don’t want to be here anymore. I wouldn’t blame you.”

“No, I’m not going to get upset over him again.” She grinned. “This time doesn’t count. We’ll put it down to shock.”

I chuckled. “OK, whatever you like, maybe you’ll get some answers.”

“Maybe but after five years I don’t know if I want them.”

She needed answers and by the look on Eric’s face when he’d seen her, he needed to give them. I’d keep my fingers crossed for them both. “Let’s go back then if you’re feeling better. Don’t forget to gush about my beautiful dress.”

She laughed, it sounded a bit forced, but I took it as her trying to pull herself together. I wet a flannel and passed it over so she could wipe her face. She didn’t wear makeup when she wasn’t working so luckily she hadn’t ruined it.

“Are you ready for battle?” I asked.

“As ready as I’ll ever be. When this is over, I expect every juicy detail of you and Ryder.”

Yep, she was feeling much better now, the nosy cow. “There is nothing to tell.”

She raised her eyebrows in disbelief.

“We haven’t slept together.”

“What? You mean you haven’t jumped on him the first chance you got?”

“There hasn’t exactly been time but I can tell you that his kisses are mind-blowing. No one has ever kissed me the way he does.”

“If he’s so good at kissing, just imagine how good he will be in bed.”

I blushed. “I imagine it all the time.”

“I bet you do, I certainly would if I were you. Julian is a slime ball who treated you like dirt. I’m glad you have Ryder. He’s a real man, he won’t let you down.”

“I know I’m lucky he feels the same way about me as I do him.”

“It isn’t luck Lex, it’s because you’re you. You’re the sweetest, gentlest person I know.”

“Ryder is sweet,” I said with a smile.

She scoffed, “Only with you and Katie.”

I laughed. “That’s what he said.”

“He’ll look after you; he’ll make sure you’re happy. I’m pleased for you. Now come on, we’d better get back before they send out a search party.” She took one last look in the mirror before she flounced out like she hadn’t been crying on my shoulder. Pride was a stubborn thing.

I wish I could get them to talk to each other but it wasn’t my place. I wouldn’t like it if someone stuck their nose in my business especially in such an upsetting situation. Eric’s eyes tracked Jen when we got back into the kitchen. I saw him wince at her face, but he hid his expression quickly returning it to a blank slate. Jen missed all this because she kept her eyes on the floor, never looking up at him.

“Baking.” I blurted out into the awkward silence. Both of them stared at me for a minute. “I’m going to do some baking.”

“Blueberry muffins?” Eric asked with a hopeful expression.

I groaned. “Not you as well.”

“Your muffins are legendary. Ryder won’t let us have any but we’ve all sneaked one when he wasn’t guarding the tin.”

I laughed at his admission feeling a little proud. “I suppose I could make some. What about you Jen?”

“I just need ice-cream.” She said quietly.

Ah, Ice-cream, the food of broken hearts. “Ok, well I need to go to the shop for ingredients.” I looked at Eric. “Is that Ok?”

“You’re not a prisoner Lexi; we just need to know where you’re going so we can protect you.”

“And follow me?”

“Yeah, that too.”

I nodded. It was weird not having privacy, but it was for Katie’s sake as well as my own.

“Katie,” I called as I went in search of her. “We’re going shopping.”

She groaned.

 “Food shopping.” I clarified.

“I’ll get my coat.” She leapt up to do just that, making me smile. I didn’t like clothes shopping either; usually, I just bought our clothes online.

“She’s just like you, a mini you, in fact,” Jen said from behind me.

“Lexi, I’ll be coming with you, but I’ll follow behind in my own car,” Eric said as he walked to stand next to me. I heard Jen’s sigh of relief and no doubt he did too, but he didn’t react.

“I’m ready Mummy, I’ve got your coat, and Aunty Jens’s too.”

“Someone’s eager.” I teased taking my coat.

“I like the supermarket. They have all the things you need for blueberry muffins.”

“Yes they do, and for all the other cakes I could make too.”

“Maybe if you have another baby, it won’t like blueberry muffins.”

 “Actually, Lex,” Jen said in amusement. “I think you’ll be out of luck there. With Ryder’s genes, the kid will probably come out screaming for them. He loves them just as much as short stuff here.”

“Whoa,” I protested. “You’re getting a bit ahead of yourself.”

“I don’t think I am but I see by your face I’ve sent you into a mini panic so I’ll drop it.”

“Good idea.” Eric agreed, and she scowled at him. Surprisingly, he grinned at her.

“Come on, let’s go.” I wasn’t sure what Jen was going to say to Eric, but I was sure I didn’t want Katie to hear, she looked confused enough already.

“All right, drive slow enough so I can keep you in sight at all times. When you get to the shop don’t get out until I’m at your door. OK?”

“Ok.” I agreed. I grabbed my bag and keys and waited until everyone was out before locking up. I did what Eric asked and couldn’t help but watch for him in my mirrors. He didn’t leave my sight, and I felt much safer. I hadn’t given much thought to the danger we could be in and I was glad when we arrived at the shops so I didn’t have to think about it anymore. I could bury my head in the sand. Even with the cameras and Eric staying with us it still didn’t seem like real life.

We all climbed out of the car once Eric made it to us and Katie grabbed my hand while Jen got a trolley.

“You have the trolley and Katie and I will get the ice-cream,” Jen said.

“Deal,” I heard a phone ring and turned to see Eric pulling his out of his pocket. I strolled down the baking aisle and grabbed what I needed; I was just putting the last item in my trolley when someone sort of pushed into it nearly hitting me in the process. I looked up annoyed and grimaced.

“Hi Tammy,” I greeted with a smile which I knew looked false. It was impossible to give a real one to the woman who stole my husband even if I didn’t care about him anymore.

“Don’t you Hi me, you bitch.”

I stepped back at the venom in her voice. She looked ready to claw my eyes out. “What’s the matter?” I asked her in shock.

“What’s the matter?” She screeched.

I winced at the sound. I saw Eric walk up slowly behind her.

“You have some nerve, Lexi. Is it jealousy? Do you think by asking Julian for more money I’ll leave him and he’ll go back to you? You’re bleeding him dry.”

“I’m bleeding him dry?” I asked to clarify. I must be hearing things.

“Yes. Don’t act all innocent. Julian has told me how you keep threatening to stop his contact with Katie if he doesn’t give you more money each week.”

“You have it wrong.”

“No, I don’t. My Julian doesn’t lie to me.” She stated with complete faith in him.

Pity filled me. She had no idea about anything Julian had done and I couldn’t tell her because she’d confront him and he’d know we knew. Well, that was if she even believed me which I didn’t think she would.

“I’m sorry if that is what Julian has told you, but he doesn’t pay me any money towards Katie’s upkeep. He never has.”

“You’re such a lying bitch, how do you pay for your fancy car and fancy house if not for my husband and his money?”

Julian really had kept her in the dark; I wonder why he’d never told her about my Gran’s money.

“I don’t need to tell you that. Just know that Julian pays nothing to me at all, not a penny.”

“You’re lying. Julian is going to go for full custody of Katie. We talked about it last night.” She told me in a sickly sweet voice and I wanted to punch her. I refused to let her see the effect her words had on me.

“He can try but believe me he will never win.”

“We’ll see about that. Especially when we tell them you have men staying over.”

“I do not have men staying over but even if I did, no court will take a child away just because the mother has a boyfriend.”

“Maybe we’ll say he isn’t your boyfriend, maybe he’s the man who is keeping you. You say Julian isn’t paying your bills so you must be earning it somewhere, perhaps on your back.”

“Why you little…” I started as I took a step towards her. How dare she accuse me of being a prostitute?

“Ladies,” Eric’s said in warning as Katie stepped around the corner. I sucked in a deep breath and unclenched my fist. Yes, I was about to punch the cow before Eric had spoken. I, Lexi, who’d never hit anyone in my life was about to punch my daughter’s stepmother. I should probably be glad Katie appeared. She walked to my side and slipped her hand into mine.

“Are you ok Mummy?”

I forced a smile. “I’m fine baby; I was just talking to Tammy.”

Tammy seemed to shake herself. “Hi Katie, Are you looking forward to coming home this weekend?”

I bit the inside of my cheek tasting blood. There was no way I was letting this woman wind me up in front of Katie. I was vibrating with rage and it was hard to hide it. The words she used were on purpose; perhaps she did want a punch in the face. I noticed Katie didn’t answer her, and she huffed.

“Lexi, are you ready to go?” Eric asked.

“Yes, where is Jen?”

“I’m here, I forgot sprinkles.” She saw the situation for what it was. “Katie, do you want to help me choose a magazine? I want one with lots of shoes.” She held out her hand and Katie squeezed mine before letting go and taking Jen’s.

Tammy waited until they were out of earshot to hiss. “So, is this the man you have staying over all the time?” She looked Eric up and down. “He doesn’t look rich.”

“She’s not with me for my money.” He said with a sly grin and I choked back a laugh at her expression. Considering she had no qualms about sleeping with married men her reaction was priceless. She looked horrified.

“You’re disgusting. You wait until I tell Julian how you’ve spoken to me.”

“Tell him to call me because I have a lot to say to him.”

She gave me a dirty look. “He won’t come back to you. He told me you’re lousy in bed.”

Before, that comment would have hurt me, but now I let it go over my head. Julian wasn’t worth it. “Well, considering Julian only knows one move, and it only lasts about two minutes I’m not surprised he thinks I’m crap. I suppose you like it as long as you have the money to spend.” Two can play that game.

She opened her mouth, but no words came out. Score one for me. Eric and I watched as she stormed off down the aisle and out the front door. When she was gone I laughed. “I didn’t realise I could be such a bitch.”

“All women have it in them when they’re cornered. I’m glad you stuck up for yourself.”

“It felt good at the time, but now I feel guilty. He’s not really that bad, I exaggerated.”

“Lexi, he’s an asshole. I’d believe you if you told me he has a two-inch penis. We have a new threat to deal with.”

I sighed. “I can’t believe he would try this, especially now. He’s not having my baby girl.”

“No, he isn’t. We won’t let him.”

“I’m worried.”

“You should be but not for the reasons you think. Come on, we need to catch Katie up, she’s not stupid she knows something's up.”

I pasted a smile on my face and followed his lead. Katie had four magazines in her hand and I raised my brows at Jen.  She shrugged. “I need new shoes.”

“I’m not sure your bank balance or your wardrobe would agree.”

She stuck her tongue out.

Eric took the trolley and herded us to the tills. I reached for my purse once everything was scanned but he shook his head.

“You know I can afford this, don’t you?”

“I know.” He said, but he still handed his card over. I frowned.

“Don’t argue Lex, you won’t win,” Jen said quietly.

“She’s right. You’re making muffins; I’m just paying for the ingredients.”

I shrugged, “Fine.”

He took his card back from the cashier and then he carried the bags to our car. 

“Drive safely. I’ll see you back at your house.”

All the way home I could feel Jen’s eyes on me, but I couldn’t tell her anything until Katie was out of earshot. She was already too quiet. I stuck the radio on and started singing along, it didn’t take long until they both joined me. Music soothed any problems, for a while anyway.

Eric made his way to the car when we pulled up outside the house and he grabbed the bags out of the boot before I could. I unlocked the door and let us all in, putting my keys in the bowl I kept by the phone I noticed my answerphone was flashing. I pressed the button as I helped Katie out of her coat and listened as Julian’s voice started speaking. “Lexi, call me, we need to talk.” He sounded normal, just like his old self and I could almost believe I’d imagined everything, but then I remembered what Tammy said and I was furious all over again.

“Katie, do you want to see what cartoons are on?”

“Ok Mummy, but will you call me when the muffins are ready, please?”

“Of course baby, as soon as they are out of the oven.”

“Promise?”

“I promise.”

“Good, because Eric might eat them all.”

Eric chuckled. “I wouldn’t do that to such a cute little girl.”

She didn’t look like she believed him which I found hilarious. “Go on, baby.” I said as I stroked her hair softly.

Jen had already walked off and when I got to the kitchen, she had a glass of wine ready for me. “Let Eric put the shopping away and tell me what that bitch said to you.” She ordered.

I sat down at the breakfast table and did just that. Jen didn’t interrupt me, but her face got redder and redder as I kept talking. When I got to the end, I thought she might pass out.

“How the hell didn’t you slap her?”

“I nearly punched her,” I admitted.

“I’m not surprised, I would have. I can’t believe she told you Julian thinks you’re rubbish in bed.”

“I got my own back on that one.”

“Yeah, you rock girl.” She giggled.

“What am I going to do?”

“About Julian going for custody?”

“I nodded.

“He won’t get it, besides Tammy was probably just saying that to hurt you. He probably hasn’t ever mentioned it.”

“I pray he hasn’t.”

“You can’t be worried he will win, surely?”

I shook my head. “I’m worried about what he is up to.”

“Lex,” I looked at Eric when he spoke. His face was grim. “Whatever he’s doing, you and Katie are safe. No judge would give him custody over you.”

 “I hope you’re right. Thanks for the sympathy, now I need to bake. While I do that, I need to think of an excuse why Julian can’t have Katie this weekend.” I could also do with speaking to Ryder. It’s funny because I was so used to dealing with things on my own and now I had Ryder and Eric to help. It felt nice not to be alone.

“You should just tell him he's a shit father and doesn’t deserve her.”

“I wish I could but Ryder doesn’t want him tipped off that we know anything,” I explained to Jen. “Me saying something like that would ring alarm bells.”

“That sucks.”

“Tell me about it.”

                                                                        ****

We spent the afternoon in peace. Eric and Jen seemed to make an effort to be polite to each other, and I knew it was because I was on the edge, having kept myself busy baking and then playing with Katie, I didn’t give myself time to think, but that didn’t mean I wasn’t still furious. I felt helpless, not a good feeling at all. Katie was in danger and there was nothing I could do. It was in Ryder’s hands now and even though I loved him, it still didn’t feel right to rely on him to keep my daughter safe. She is my daughter that’s my job.

One good thing was that Katie was back to her normal self. I’d explained to her that Tammy, and I had been upset with each other but we’d sorted it out. She’d asked if I was going to call her daddy back and I’d reassured her that I would. It wasn’t a lie; I did intend to call him back, but not until I’d calmed down.

Now here I sat on my bed feeling exhausted. I’ve had a shower and put my pyjamas on, but I still couldn't relax. I wanted to call Ryder, but it was late and I didn’t want to wake him. Also, I was being a coward because he might have more bad news for me and I didn’t want to hear it, just yet. I decided to send him a quick text message instead to let him know I missed him. Sighing, I placed my phone on the bedside table. I climbed under the covers knowing sleep wasn’t going to be easy, but I needed to try. I turned the light off and rolled over. My last thought was that it would be really nice to have Ryder’s arms around me.

Something brushed against my neck gently, I moved slightly unsure if I’d imagined it but it happened again. I rolled over and came face to face with a grinning Ryder.

“You sleep like the dead.”

“What are you doing here?” I asked in shock.

“I’ve come to check on my girl.”

“I like being called that.”

“Well, you’d better get used to it.” He said as he pulled me more fully against him.

“I think I could,” I said breathlessly because I could feel his hard body pressing into mine sending shivers up my spine.

“Do I get a hello kiss?”

“Are you staying?” I asked.

“Yes, baby, I’m staying.”

“Good, then you can have anything you want.”

“Anything huh?” he grinned. “Let’s start with this.”

Before I could ask what this was he was kissing me. His lips touched mine, and I arched up chasing his mouth. Having him in my bedroom, in my bed was a dream come true, and I wanted more. I heard him chuckle before he gave in and placed his lips against mine hard, his tongue slid into my open mouth and rubbed against my tongue. I gasped as he suddenly pulled me down on top of him and I felt his cock pushing into my stomach. I wanted to feel him inside me; I have never wanted anyone like I do him.

“What time is it?” I asked. I didn’t want to stop, but I also didn’t want Katie walking in on us.

“It’s five.”

“Katie will be up soon.” I sighed. She usually woke around six. It didn’t matter what time she went to bed it was still always the same.

“I know baby that’s why I’m still fully clothed.”

I looked down and realised he wore trackie bottoms and a t-shirt. “You’d better change before Jen sees you.” I grinned.

“Why?”

“Because she'll put the image of you in her spank bank,” I giggled. “Do women have spank banks? I don’t know what else you’d call it.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about but I’m glad you’re happy.” He kissed my head and eased me to the side so he could wrap his arms around me from behind.

I snuggled closer, and I heard him groan.

“You’re teasing me baby and I’m trying so hard not to roll you over and show you just how much I want you.”

“Sorry,” I said sheepishly.

“Are you really?”

“Yeah, it’s just…” I trailed off embarrassed, but I forced the words out. “It’s nice to feel wanted.”

“I always want you, Lexi. Trust me on that, but right now my control is lax because I’m tired. I don’t want Katie to walk in on us and I definitely don’t want our first time to be a quick fumble.”

“You’re right. I’ll keep still.” I promised.

“Good, now close your eyes and let me get a few minutes of sleep.”

I grinned. There was no way I’d be able to sleep with all the excitement dancing through my body. I felt twitchy but Ryder’s arms had gone heavy and I realised he’d fallen asleep. He must be more than just tired. I forced myself to relax not wanting to disturb him.

I woke to Katie jumping on the bed like she did every morning, and I grinned.

“Morning Mummy, Ryder says you have to wake up otherwise he’ll eat your breakfast.”

How on earth did he wake up in time to get up before Katie did and cook breakfast? Did I dream that he was in my bed? I didn’t think I had.

I jumped out of bed and pulled my dressing gown on over my pyjamas mindful of the company we had and followed Katie into the kitchen. I could smell coffee and something sweet. Pancakes? Since when did Ryder cook?

“Good morning, baby.” Ryder grinned, and I stifled a laugh when I caught sight of Jen staring at him with her mouth wide open. Eric looked like he wanted to punch something.

“Morning Ryder,” I replied. “I did say you should change your clothes.”

Jen coughed loudly and blushed. She moved suddenly, grabbing the plates off the counter and started to lay the table. Ryder still looked confused. How could such a smart man be so dense? Eric looked furious, and I thought that was ridiculous. He’d left her, he should remember that.

“Mummy, am I going to daddy’s house today?” Katie asked me and my mind went blank for a second.

“No Katie baby, your daddy is busy so you’re staying with me. Is that ok?”

“And Ryder too?”

“Yes, Katie I’m going to be here. In fact, I’m going to be staying with you and your mummy.”

Katie jumped up and down squealing. “Really?”

I raised my eyes to Ryder’s in shock not really sure why I hadn’t figured he would be staying with us. With Ryder here, Eric wouldn’t need to stay anymore.

“Really.” Ryder grinned at her.

“Where will Uncle Eric sleep?”

“Uncle Eric?” I asked in surprise. She hadn’t called him that before.

She nodded. “He’s Aunty Jen's friend, so he’s mine too.”

Jen blushed.

“Is it Ok if I call you Uncle Eric?” She asked Eric and his face lit up.

“Yes, sprout I’d love it.”

“Good.” She nodded again and pat her tummy. “Ryder, I’m really hungry.”

Ryder smiled softly at her. “Go and sit down and I’ll bring your pancakes.”

“Aunty Jen, will you come and sit with me?”

“Sure kid.” Jen gave Eric one last look before taking Katie’s hand and tugging her out of the room.

I looked at Eric. “Anything I should know?”

“Katie caught us hugging; it was just an innocent hug, nothing more.”

“That explains the uncle part.”

“Yeah. You’ve got a good kid there.”

“I know. She’s smart too. Even she can see how you feel about Jen.” I stared at him, watched him open his mouth as if to speak, but then he shook his head and turned away following Jen and Katie to the table.

“You shouldn’t be too hard on him Lexi; whatever happened between them hurt him too,” Ryder said.

“Do you know what happened?”

He shook his head before turning to place the pancakes on the plate. “No, but I’ve known Eric a long time. I know when he’s hurting.”

“I hope they can sort it out.”

“Me too, but it’s none of our business.” He warned.

“I won’t stick my nose in.”

“Good. They will either sort it out themselves or they won’t. It’s not for us to decide.”

“Yes, I get it.” I sighed, he was right, but I hated seeing Jen upset and not being able to help.

“These are for Katie. There are more in the oven as well as bacon.”

“My, you have been busy.” I teased. “How did you manage to get up? I didn’t hear an alarm.”

He tapped his watch. “I have a silent alarm, but I was awake before it went off.”

“How, when you were so tired?”

“You kept rubbing your sweet body against me. It’s kind of hard to sleep when my body can’t relax.”

“Oh.” I blushed. “Sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry, I enjoyed it.” He winked.

“I probably would have too if I’d been awake.”

“Do you know that you talk in your sleep?” He asked me.

“I do not,” I argued. Well, I hoped I didn’t.

He grinned. “You whispered my name a couple of times. It was really hard not to roll you over and kiss the breath out of you.”

“I’m sure I don’t believe you.”

“Tonight I’ll set up the sofa and I’ll be on it when Katie wakes up, but you’d better believe that I’ll be sharing your bed until then.”

“Oh.” I didn’t know what to say to that. I was nervous of him and it showed.

“Are you alright with that?”

“Yes,” I whispered. “I liked going to sleep in your arms this morning.”

“With the way you’re looking at me right now, I think we might end up doing more than just sleeping tonight.”

“I think you may be right.”

“And you’re Ok with that?” he sounded concerned.

“I’m definitely Ok with that,” I reassured him.

“That’s good Lex, really good. Fuck, I’m going to be hard all day now.”

“Are the pancakes ready?” Katie asked from the doorway and I dropped my eyes from Ryder to look at her.

“Sorry baby we were just talking. Go and sit down and I’ll bring them right out.”

I took a deep breath and took the plate Ryder held out for me careful not to touch him. I wanted so badly to kiss him, but if I did, I didn’t think either of us would be able to stop. I followed Katie in and placed her plate down on the table in front of her.

“I’ll just grab the coffee and Ryder will bring the rest in,” I told Jen and Eric. Both were looking everywhere but at each other.

When I walked back to the kitchen Ryder grimaced. “We need to tell Julian that he isn’t having Katie.”

I loved how he said we. “After lunch, I don’t want to ruin breakfast. I’ll tell him she is ill.”

“I’d like to tell him something else but we’ll go with Katie feeling poorly.”

“I don’t like it any more than you do. I hope I haven’t jinxed her and she'll get ill now.”

“Lex, don’t be daft. It doesn’t work like that.”

I shook my head. “Famous last words,” I warned.

I gripped the coffee pot and Ryder pulled the plates from the oven. He followed me to the table and laid them on the mats. “Breakfast is served.”

“It’s about time.” Eric groaned. “I’m starving.”

“Me too,” Jen agreed.

I poured coffee into the cups Ryder had already laid out and sat down to eat.

I groaned as I bit into a pancake. “You make good pancakes,” I told Ryder once I’d finished my bite.

“And you make great muffins. We make quite a pair.” He smirked.

“I saved you a few. They are in a box under the stairs.”

“Lexi, you are the best.”

“Thanks. You’d better be quick though because now everyone knows where they are. You might not get one.”

“No one had better touch my muffins.” He warned.

“Can I have one please, Ryder?” Katie asked.  She was doing her cute little, butter wouldn’t melt face, and one look at Ryder told me he was just as susceptible to it as I was.

“Of course baby,” He smiled.

“What about me?” Eric asked.

“Nope, none for you,” Ryder said instantly.

“Well, that’s not very nice is it and after everything, I’ve done for you.” He groused.

“I don’t share Lexi’s muffins with anyone.”

“Except with me,” Katie piped up. “Ryder loves me.”

“Yes, I do squirt.”

I sighed. “I’ll make some later.”

“You’re the best.” Eric praised me.

“You guys are ridiculous.” I groaned. “It isn’t even a special recipe.”

“Yeah, but they are still the best,” Ryder said.

“They are good Lexi,” Jen admitted.

“Maybe I should show you how to make them, you might need to know one day,” I said slyly.

Jen blushed. I picked up my coffee and Eric did the same not quite hiding his grin.

“What are we going to do today, Mummy?”

“What do you want to do, baby?”

“I think I’d like to play football with Ryder.”

“We can do that. Eric can play too.”

While they played, I decided I would ring Julian. I knew it wouldn’t go well; better to have Katie out of hearing range. I worried Julian would turn up here. Ryder could more than handle him, but I just didn’t want Katie to see her daddy angry, especially if he was acting like he was the other night. I sighed.

“It will be Ok Lexi,” Ryder said quietly.

It was like he’d read my mind. “I hope so,” I whispered.

I looked at my daughter and smiled. She was so happy, so secure, and I wanted her to always feel like that. I would do all I could to make sure she did. I dreaded her going back to school; I didn’t want her out of my sight. I knew she’d be perfectly safe, but I would rather have the situation resolved before she went back. Ryder reached over and squeezed my hand. “Lexi, stop worrying, you’re not alone now.”

I smiled softly at him. “Sweet,” I whispered.

“Only for you.”

“And Katie,” I added.

“Yes, and Katie,” He agreed.

****

I’d been sat staring at my house phone for the last ten minutes. It was ridiculous, it wasn’t like it was the phones fault I had to make a phone call I did not want to make, but here I was hoping it would burst into flames. “Man up,” I whispered loudly to myself.

“What was that?” Jen called from the kitchen. She had hearing like a bat. “Nothing,” I called back before biting my lip. I really needed to call Julian while Ryder and Eric had Katie outside. I could hear her giggling and it made my heart hurt.  Sighing, I picked up the phone and dialled Julian’s number. Thankfully, it was him that answered and not Tammy.

“Hi Julian, its Lexi,”

“Yes, I know that.” He said impatiently.

“Katie is poorly so I’m going to keep her home this weekend.” I rushed the words out.

“I don’t believe you, Lexi. I’m coming to get her right now.”

“No, you are not.” I snapped.

“We’ll see about that.”

I took a deep breath before speaking. “Julian, you are not having her and that is final. If you come here, I will have Ryder throw you off my property.” I warned him.

“You have no right to do this Lexi, she’s my daughter too.”

“I’m aware of that, but one of us needs to think of her safety.”

“What do you mean by that?” He sounded way too calm all of a sudden. Shit.

“Nothing, I meant nothing.”

“This isn’t over Lexi.” He warned me and then he hung up.

“Shit.” I cursed. That did not go well. I hadn’t thought it would but I think I’d just tipped him off that we know something.

I placed the phone down and stood. I was really worried now. Was he going to turn up here? I couldn’t be sure, but I had a bad feeling. He sounded desperate. I had to warn Ryder. I headed to the kitchen. Jen looked at me expectantly but I shook my head. “I need to speak to Ryder.”

She chucked the towel she was using to dry her hands and walked outside through the back door. She said something to Ryder, and he glanced towards me before telling Katie he’d be back in a minute. I smiled at Katie and she waved before running after the ball Eric had just kicked. Ryder looked worried when he made it to the kitchen.  I turned to look out of the window almost expecting Julian to pull up outside even though I knew he wouldn’t make it here that fast.

“How did it go?” Ryder asked as he wrapped his arms around me from behind.

“Not well. I think I might have tipped him off that we know something.”

“What did you say?”

“That one of us should be thinking of Katie’s safety.”

“It’s the truth, maybe he will overlook that.”

“What if he turns up here for her?”

“If he does, we will deal with him.”

I leaned back into him, his arms tightened around my waist. The whole world could stop spinning and I wouldn’t notice because being this close to him felt like a dream. I didn’t think I would ever get used to it.

“We’d better go outside and save Jen,” I said.

I turned in his arms to face him and his expression shocked me. Before I could process what I thought I’d seen he leaned down and kissed me. I gasped in surprise and then moaned as his tongue brushed against mine, caressing slowly. Butterflies filled my stomach. I lifted my hands to link them around his neck and kissed him back like my life depended on it. Maybe it did because I was on fire. I shivered uncontrollably. Ryder pulled away and pushed my hot cheek against his chest. His heart sounded like it was trying to beat out of him and mine was matching its pace.

“God, Lexi, we can’t do much more of that?” He groaned. It sounded like he was in pain.

I tried to look up at him, but his hand kept me pressed against him. “If you so much as look at me, I’m going to drag you upstairs and have you.”

“I wouldn’t complain,” I whispered truthfully.

“I don’t want to rush our first time together. I’ve waited years for this, a few more hours won’t hurt me… much.”

I sighed. “You’re right.”

“I always am.”

I pulled away and this time he let me, loosening his grip he brushed his lips across my forehead before letting me go completely. I smiled at the picture he presented. “I don’t remember touching your hair, but you look loved.”

He grinned. “You should look in a mirror.”

I reached up to touch my hair, most of it had fallen out of the ponytail I’d put it in earlier, “Oh, dear.”

“Katie won’t notice.”

“It isn’t her I’m worried about.” I groaned.

“Jen and Eric know our story; they pretty much know what is going on.”

“Yes, but Eric doesn’t ask you for details.” I frowned. “Does he?”

“Of course not and if he ever did, I would never tell him anything. What happens between us is our business no one else’s.”

I raised my eyebrows. “That’s good to know. Try telling Jen that.”

“I will if you want me too.”

I shook my head. “You’re too brave for your own good.”

He frowned.

Holding out a hand to him I smiled. “Come on, we can go and play football.”

“Are you sure you want to?”

“Not really, but it will take my mind off things.”

“Yeah, falling over can do that.”

He grabbed my hand and brought it to his mouth kissing my knuckles gently. “I’ll pick you up.”

“I don’t doubt you will.” I grinned.

God, he was sweet.

Lexi

I’d been on edge since I’d spoken to Julian so Jen decided to take Katie to the park. Eric volunteered to go with them and even though Jen didn’t look pleased about it she relented when she saw my face. Eric would keep them both safe; I wouldn’t let her take Katie otherwise. I had no doubt that Jen would do everything in her power to protect her, but I didn’t want her to have to. Eric was trained, and he knew what to do in these kinds of situations.

They’d just left; Ryder had taken Eric’s bags to his house and gone to pack a bag of his own. I’d decided to take a shower, I would have preferred a bath, but I really did spend way too long in it, and I wanted some alone time with Ryder. I stripped my clothes off and turned the shower on, waiting for the water to heat up before stepping in. The water hit my body, and I sighed, standing still under the spray, I closed my eyes and relaxed. Grabbing my shower gel I squeezed a blob into my palm and cleaned myself. I imagined my hands were Ryder’s as I rubbed the bubbles everywhere. I’ve never felt so turned on by my own touch before. I shook my head at myself, Ryder would be back soon. Rushing through the rest of my shower, I climbed out and wrapped a towel around my hair; I dried my body and slipped my robe around me. I was just rubbing my hair dry when I heard a knock on the front door. Panic set in, had something happened to Katie? I imagined the police standing there and ran to the door. I didn’t even think about the fact I was just wearing a robe. I pulled open the door not taking the time to check who was standing there.  My shoulders relaxed when I saw it was Ryder on the other side, but when I got a look at his face, I swallowed hard. I could almost taste his fury.

“What’s the matter?” I whispered.

“You, in that robe.” He bit the words out through clenched teeth.

I didn’t know what to say, it turned out I didn’t have to say anything. I gasped when he planted a hand on my stomach and pushed me gently into the house, quickly following behind me and closing the door. He stepped away from me and I noticed he was breathing hard.

“What the hell Lexi, you do not open doors half-naked.”

“I’m not half-naked,” I argued.

He didn’t speak, instead, his eyes wandered down my body and I looked down following his stare. “Shit.” I groaned. My nipples were visible through the material. I crossed my arms to cover them.

“It could have been anyone at your door. You put yourself in danger and it was stupid!” he shouted at me.

He was right. I dropped my eyes from his. “I was worried something had happened to Katie. I didn’t think. I’m sorry.”

He sighed before answering, his tone soft, quiet. “Please don’t do it again. Promise me.”

“I promise.”

“Thank you. How long do you think they will stay at the park?”

“Probably a couple of hours, Jen usually buys Katie ice-cream afterwards. Why?”

“I was wondering how much time we have.”

“For what?”

“For this,” He growled. And then I was in his arms and he was kissing me. I opened my mouth to his probing tongue; it slid in and rubbed against my own setting off fireworks in my head and a warm feeling in my tummy. My body was overheating in my thin robe.

“Ryder.” I gasped. I had to pull away to take a breath. “We should go to my bedroom.”

He studied my face. “Are you sure?”

“Oh yes, I’m definitely sure.”

“Thank fuck.” He groaned.

He picked me up, and I wrapped my legs around his waist.

“You’re so strong. I love it.” I said quietly as I caressed the tops of his arms, my fingers rubbed against his bulging muscles as he walked. He headed towards my bedroom and when we entered, I expected him to put me down on my bed but he didn’t, with one hand still holding me he used the other one to close the door and flick the lock. He leaned me against the door. Pushing my hair away from my face he rubbed his thumb along my bottom lip.  “I’ve waited a really long time for you, Lexi.”

“I think I’ve waited for you my whole life.”

His eyes closed at my words and when they opened again, I was in awe at the love blazing in them. “You love me,” I whispered.

He nodded, “From the first glance of your beautiful eyes.”

“Wow.”  My lips stretched into a huge smile. I was sure I looked goofy, but I couldn’t help it.

He kissed my smiling lips and then he graced me with a sexy smile. “Now, I’m going to show you.”

“I hope so. I’ve imagined it many times; I hope you don’t disappoint me.” I teased.

“Let us see.” He let me drop my legs from his waist and lowered me to my feet. “I would love to strip you slowly, but we don’t have a lot of time and I’d rather use that time to make you scream in pleasure.”

“Ok.” I wasn’t going to argue with that. My hands went to the belt of my robe and I untied it before slowly pulling my robe off and draping it over the end of the bed.

“Fuck, Lexi, you’re stunning.”

I blushed as I fought the urge to cover myself from his stare. “Thanks, now it’s your turn.”

He quickly disposed of his clothes and when he pushed his underwear down his hips, I stared at him in stunned silence. He was magnificent

“Come here,” he ordered.

“I think you might have to come to me. I don’t think my legs will work.” I wasn’t kidding, seeing him in all his naked glory had made me weak.

He grinned before scooping me up and laying me on the bed, he came down on top of me keeping his weight off me.

“Are you on the pill baby?”

I nodded.

“I can use a condom if you want me to.”

I didn’t want him to; I wanted to feel him inside me with no barriers between us. I shook my head.

He smiled sweetly and leaned down to kiss me again pulling away when I was breathless. His lips trailed down my neck to my breasts, his tongue flicked out and teased my nipple, doing the same to the other one before moving down my stomach. When he was just above my pussy, he inhaled deeply.

“I can’t wait to taste you baby, but it will have to be later.”

My muscles clenched just thinking about his mouth on me. He moved back and locked eyes with me, linking our hands he lined his body up with mine. “Wrap your legs around me, Lexi.”

I did what he asked, and a groan tore from my throat as he entered me slowly. It felt delicious. My eyes fell closed savouring the feeling of being joined with him. He kissed my closed lids.

“This is going to be fast.” He warned me and then he moved. He hadn’t been lying. My body moved with every thrust of his hips, his cock somehow rubbing the spot I needed it to. I’d never been so close to orgasm so quickly, but Ryder knew my body. Just as my muscles started to clench he reached down between us and rubbed my clit. My whole body arched into his and I felt like I was falling off a cliff. I screamed in pleasure as my orgasm robbed me of my sight. Stars blurred in front of my eyes and then just as quickly they disappeared leaving my body limp. I heard Ryder’s groan in my ear, his breath tickled my neck and his body slumped on to mine. I unlinked our hands and tangled one of mine in his hair.

“Wow,” I whispered.

He chuckled. “You were definitely worth the wait, Lexi.”

“So were you. Never have I ever felt so much pleasure.” I told him softly.

He raised his head to look into my eyes. “I’m glad I’m the only one to have given it you.”

“Me too.”

I felt a connection with him, one that felt like it had been there all along it had just needed total trust and me giving myself to him had made it solid.

“As much as I don’t want to leave the warmth of your arms or your body, Katie will be home soon.”

“I know. The last thing I want is for Jen to work out what we’ve just done.”

Ryder got up pulling out of me gently. “You won’t be able to hide it baby, you look loved.”

I looked him over. “So do you.”

He grinned smugly making me chuckle. “That pleases you?” I asked him.

“Yep, there is nothing better than knowing you love me.”

“It’s a good feeling.” I agreed.

“Oh gosh,” I groaned when I remembered something.

“What’s the matter?”

“We made a sex tape!” I screeched in horror.

He laughed. “It would be good to watch.”

My mouth dropped open in shock.

“Relax, Lexi, I turned the cameras off when I went home, we’ll turn them on again when we go out.”

“Oh, thank god,” I whispered.

“No, baby, thank Ryder.” He grinned.

I leaned over and swatted his arm. “We need to get dressed.”

“Yes, we do, in real clothes this time.” He said as he eyed my robe.

“Yes, real clothes,” I said hiding my smile. I got up and headed to the bathroom. “I need to clean up first.”

Ryder’s smile was wistful. “If you weren’t on the pill, I could have just made you pregnant.”

“It is way too soon for that.”

“Do you think so? He said in a strange voice. I had a feeling he disagreed with me.

The thought didn’t scare me and I knew Katie would love it. I smiled and closed the door behind me not yet comfortable with him watching me. I grabbed a washcloth and did what I needed to do and then went back to my room. The room was empty. I quickly pulled some clothes on. Brushing my still damp hair I tied it in a ponytail. I heard voices, and they sounded angry. Julian was here.

I shook my head at his stupidity. I’d already told him I’d have Ryder throw him off my property. He’d seen Ryder, he knew he had no chance; Ryder was nearly twice his size, muscles wise. I took a deep breath, looked in the mirror one last time and headed towards the loud voices.

Ryder was stood facing Julian, his arms crossed, his posture saying he was ready for trouble. Now was not the time to notice how delicious his bum was, but I couldn’t help it, my eyes had a mind of their own.

“Lexi, tell this thug to move aside and let me in. I want my daughter.” Julian ordered me.

I walked until I could look him in the eyes, out of reach because Ryder wouldn’t move. “No, Julian, I will not. You’re not having Katie this weekend.”

“Katie.” He called loudly.

I saw red. “How dare you come to my home and act this way? You’re lucky she isn’t here to see you in this state.”

“I’m not in a state. I want my daughter.” His eyes caught mine and the anger there would have scared me if we’d been alone. “You said she was ill.”

“I lied. Why on earth do you need her with you so badly that you would make a scene like this?” I asked wondering if he might confess.

“She’s my daughter. I want to spend time with her.”

“You seem desperate Julian. Anything I should know?”

He blinked. “No, nothing, tell Katie I stopped by to see her.” He said as he suddenly turned abruptly and left. Just like that, he stepped off the porch and walked to his car.

“Well, that was confusing,” I said to Ryder as we watched Julian drive away.

“The guy Julian owes the money to doesn’t hurt the families of the person who’s borrowed the money. He won’t even go near them if they have children surrounding them.” Ryder said as he closed the door.

I stared at him in shock. “He’s using my baby as what… a buffer? How could he do that to her? Wait… you knew?”

He gave me a hard nod. “It gets worse.”

I walked over to my sofa and sat down, “How much worse?”

“Julian’s loan has been sold to someone else. This person does not care who gets hurt as long as they get their money back. They will use the family if they have to.” He sat down next to me and took my hand.

“That’s why you had Eric stay with us and the cameras installed.”

“Yes. The cameras I did on a hunch, but when I went to the office and heard about the loan and who he owed, I was double glad I’d done it. The guy is bad news, Lexi. Julian is in some serious shit.”

“Julian isn’t aware, is he? If he was I don’t think he would have Katie around him. Well, I hoped he wouldn’t.”

“I don’t think he does. Maybe it’s time to offer him our help instead of working in the background and pretending we know nothing.”

“Do you think you can help him?”

“David has contacts. We’re all trying to find something on Jacobson, the man Julian owes his debt to so we can put him away. It isn’t easy, he has people to do his dirty work, so he keeps his hands clean, but we’ll find something, eventually. No one is that careful.”

“Katie and I will be in danger for a while won’t we?”

“Until we can find evidence on Jacobson, I’m afraid so.”

“What about when she goes back to school?” I bit my lip.

“We’ll have someone watching all exits. The head teacher has already been informed. Katie will be safe.”

I sighed. “What a mess.”

“It’s a big mess, but it’s fixable. We’ll let Julian calm down today and in the morning we’ll invite him over.”

“Are you sure it’s a good idea?”

“Not really, but it’s the best one I have. I’ll call David and see if there’s any more information. I will also need to make sure Julian doesn’t give the game away for us and tell Jacobson we are looking into him.”

The front door opened, and I jumped in my seat. Katie giggled as she came running towards me launching into my arms and diving onto my lap. I hugged her tightly blinking away tears.

“Did you have fun at the park?”

“It was wicked. Aunty Jen pushed me on the swings.”

“That’s great baby.”

“Is there a reason your bag is on the porch Ryder?” Eric asked as he came in carrying it.

Ryder shrugged. “I forgot to bring it in.”

I blushed remembering why he’d forgotten it. Ducking my face into Katie’s hair I giggled.

“Hey, Lexi, do you want to help me make coffee? I’m freezing.” Jen said as she walked towards the kitchen.

I rolled my eyes. “Sure,” I answered as I kissed Katie and slid her off my lap. “Cookie?” I asked her and she grinned. “Yes, please. I’m starving.”

“You always are.”

“You can’t hide behind her all night.” Jen accused me with a grin.

“See, I told you.” I groaned at Ryder,

He opened his mouth, but I shook my head. “Nope, you don’t say a word.”

“As long as you don’t either,” He winked.

I followed Jen’s retreating figure to the kitchen. As soon as we were out of earshot she turned looking me over at the same time. “You had sex.” She hissed.

“No, I didn’t.” I lied.

“You fibber, I can tell you have.”

I shook my head. “I’m not saying anything.”

“You just did, Lexi. Wow, he works fast.”

“Julian came when you were out.” I said changing the subject.

“You’re joking. Does he have a death wish?”

“He didn’t cause much trouble but I’m glad Katie wasn’t here. He was yelling for her like a madman.”

She frowned. “That is unlike him.”

“I know. Ryder explained after he left why he was acting like that. The man Julian owes his debt to never goes after the families of the client.”

“He’s using Katie as a cover? He is a bastard.”

“It’s much worse than that. Julian doesn’t realise that his debt was sold to someone else, and this person doesn’t care who gets hurt.”

“Oh gosh, Lexi, what’s Ryder going to do?”

“His boss in the security firm has people looking for evidence of a crime to pin on the guy and put him in prison.”

“Julian is an absolute dumbass.”

“Ryder wants me to invite him here tomorrow so we can tell him we know what’s going on and then Ryder is going to offer to help him.”

“By helping him, Ryder will be helping you. He’ll sort it out.”

“I hope so.” I sighed. “I hate this for Katie.”

“At least Ryder is staying here now, that’s got to be a bonus.”

My smile was huge. “Oh yes, it’s definitely a bonus.”

She turned serious, taking my hand in hers. “I’m glad you’re happy, Lexi. You deserve it.”

“So do you,” I said squeezing her hand before letting go. Her eyes were sad, and I didn’t like seeing her like that. “Do you want a coffee? If I don’t get Katie her cookie, she’ll tell me she’s starving again.”

Jen chuckled, amusement replacing the sadness. “She’s always starving.”

“I don’t know where she gets her appetite. It sure isn’t from me.”

“Well, it isn’t from Julian either, he hates sweet stuff.” She waggled her brows, “Are you sure she is his?”

“Unfortunately, yes.”

“No torrid affair we should know about?” She teased.

“No, unless you count the love affair I have with coffee.”

“Somehow I don’t think the coffee pot could be Katie’s dad…”

“You two are crazy,” Eric said from the doorway making us giggle.

“Yep,” We both agreed with a laugh.

Eric was staring at Jen with such longing I had to look away. “I’ll get Katie’s cookie if you guys will get the coffee?” I didn’t expect an answer; the atmosphere had grown taut with tension. Without looking at either of them, I grabbed a plate and then a cookie and I left them to it.

Lexi

“Did that really happen?” I whispered.

Ryder laughed softly. “I’m afraid so.”

I snuggled deeper into his embrace. We were lying in bed naked. My body was exhausted, and I had no energy to move a toe because he’d worn me out that much. I’d used muscles I didn’t even know I had. He’d just taken me to new heights of pleasure, and I should be happy but…

“It isn’t funny. I’m stressing out here.”

“Lexi, there is no reason for you to stress out.”

“I disagree. You just told me you’re moving in with us. We haven’t been together a week.”

He huffed. “I didn’t tell you, I asked you.”

“You didn’t give me much of a choice. I was in the throes of a mind-blowing orgasm. I couldn’t think straight.”

“If I’d given you time to think you would have said no because you think it’s too soon.”

“It is too soon.” I groaned.

“No, it isn’t. I’m not having this conversation. I asked you a question, and you gave me your answer, end of story.”

“You are so bossy.” I snapped.

“You weren’t complaining about that a minute ago.”

I blushed and turned my hot cheeks into my pillow. “That was different, I was enjoying it then.”

“You’ll enjoy living with me. I mean, it won’t be easy, you’ll probably fancy a cookie and open the jar to find it empty sometimes, but you’ll get used to it.”

I laughed. “That happens all the time now.”

He shifted so he could cup my face. “Do you want to live with me?”

“Yes,” I admitted, unable to lie to him.

“Then what’s the real problem, Lexi?”

“I don’t want Katie to be confused.”

“Bullshit. I know when you’re lying remember.”

“Fine… I’m scared.”

“What are you scared of baby?”

“That we are rushing into it and you’ll realise that and think you’ve made a huge mistake and leave me,” I admitted quietly.

“Lexi, I will never leave you voluntarily, but things happen. I can’t promise you forever, but I will promise to do everything in my power to make sure we have a forever.”

Tears hit my eyes. “When Julian left it hurt. I felt devastated, but it’s nothing to the pain I would feel if you left me.”

“Baby, I love you. I always will, you just need to trust me.”

I swallowed. “I do trust you; I want to trust in us… I just… I’ll work on it.” I promised.

“And I’ll work on making you see yourself how I see you because, Lexi, you are unbelievably fucking beautiful in every way.”

Sniffing, I wiped my cheeks with my hand. “You’re so sweet.”

“So you keep telling me. We need to go to sleep. I want to sleep with you in my arms as long as I can.”

“Ok.” I nodded. “Wait a minute, how will we tell Katie about you moving in with us?”

“We’ll tell her we are getting married.”

I stared at him in shock. Surely he hadn’t just said that.

“I’m just joking, but you should see your face.”

I sighed in relief, “One step at a time please.”

“We’ll tell her the truth, she will understand. She’s a smart kid.”

“What is the truth?”

“That I love her and her mummy very much and I want to live here with you both.”

“She will love it. So will I.”

“I will too. I won’t have to sneak around.”

I rolled my eyes. “You did that once, twice if you count tonight.”

“I know and I hated it.”

“I’d like to wake up in your arms.”

“I’d like to wake you up in my arms.” He winked.

“I look forward to it, but maybe not this morning because you’ve tired me out.” I reminded him while trying to stifle a yawn.

“You wouldn’t be complaining after I kissed you.”

“Probably not, but let’s not test it. I need sleep.”

“We both do baby. Sweet dreams, Lexi.” His lips brushed against my brow.

“Night, Ryder,” I said quietly as I pushed my body into his. I lay my head on his arm feeling snug and warm, I closed my eyes.

****

“Katie, Daddy is coming over to see you today,” I told her as I poured some more coffee into my cup.

“Is he really coming?” she asked in excitement.

“Yes, baby but afterwards Mummy and Daddy need to talk so Aunty Jen and Eric are going to take you out for lunch. Is that ok?”

“Can I have ice-cream?”

“Aunty Jen always lets you have ice cream.”

“She loves ice-cream like I do.”

“Maybe even more than you do.”

“No one loves it more than me.” She giggled.

I smiled. She was so cute. I often wonder how Julian and I had managed to make such a little cutie pie. Thinking of Julian had me sighing. He’d been pleasant on the phone when I’d called him earlier, but I knew he hadn’t been pleased. I’d sensed his anger. I would have been worried if not for Ryder being with me. Talking of Ryder I wondered where he was. He’d said he was popping to see Eric, but that was over half an hour ago. Worry formed a lump in my throat. Why would he be so long? I got up to take my cup to the sink and nearly dropped it in surprise when a man appeared in my window. I didn’t know him. He grinned, and I shivered in revulsion. I saw another man stalk up behind him, this one I would know in the dark. Ryder grabbed the unknown man in a choke hold. I wanted to go to him, to make sure he was Ok, but he was a grown man able to look after himself. Katie, however, was in the other room and oblivious to what was going on. I needed her to stay that way.

“What’s wrong, Mummy?” She asked as I walked in the room.

“Nothing, baby. Why don’t we go upstairs and get dressed ready for your daddy?”

I cringed at the thought. It was his fault this was happening. Gripping Katie’s hand I almost dragged her towards the stairs. “Race you.”  I dared her. She looked at me funny and I knew it was because I never let her run up them in case she tripped, but I pasted a smile on my face. “Just this once,” I grinned.  She didn’t hesitate a second longer running up them quickly, I followed behind her. I trusted Ryder to keep us safe I just didn’t want Katie to see the evidence of it. Katie reached her bedroom first and went straight to her wardrobe. “I want to wear this Mummy. Please.” She said as she pulled her pink trousers out along with her different shade of pink top and her yellow tutu.

“Oh baby, it’s very bright.” I laughed.

“I like bright.”

“Me too, come on, bring them to my room and you can choose my clothes.”

She jumped up and down squealing. “You have to wear something pretty for Ryder.”

Rolling my eyes at her words that sounded exactly like something Jen would say I chased after my daughter. She held out a yellow dress, and I went to shake my head to say I couldn’t wear it, but she looked so excited and I couldn’t do it.

“Ok, I’ll wear it, but I need a cardigan.”

“Your pink one?”

Yellow and pink just like Katie wore. “Ok sweetie, today we will match.”

She took my hand and pulled me towards the bathroom. I shook my head. “We can get dressed out here now.”

“Race you.” She laughed.

She usually did a pretty good job of dressing herself. I watched as she dragged her pyjamas off and I did the same. Once we were both dressed, we stood side by side in my floor length mirror staring at our reflection.  I didn’t have any words to describe us.

“We look pretty, Mummy.”

“Yes, baby, pretty. We need to brush our teeth and then well go back downstairs.”

“Ok.”

I hoped that whatever had gone down was now over. I looked at my watch and saw we had an hour before Julian arrived. I didn’t want him here, but I couldn’t disappoint Katie. She was so excited to see him. I heard the front door bang and peaked out my bedroom door and down the stairs to see Ryder standing there. My eyes wandered over him taking in his messy hair and torn t-shirt. He didn’t smile when I caught his eyes only nodded at my look of concern.

“Where’s Katie?”

“I’m here.” She answered for me. She started to run down the stairs but sensed Ryder’s mood. “Are you Ok, Ryder?” Her voice sounded funny.

“Baby, I’m absolutely fine.”

“Why do you have blood on your hand?”

She had great eyesight, even I hadn’t noticed that. I frowned.

“I bumped my hand when I walked home.” He said, and she nodded.

“You’re clumsy like my mummy.”

“Yep, squirt, I am.”

Katie seemed happy at that and bounced down the stairs. I bit my lip as she threw herself into Ryder’s arms. He grunted which told me he was hurt. His eyes met mine and he shook his head gently, his eyes conveying a message. Not now.

I wanted to know everything, and I wanted to know right now, but I nodded and headed down towards them. My face tightened. “Julian will be here soon.”

“I know, I can’t wait to have a chat.” Ryder almost growled.

Uh, oh, I would not want to be Julian right now. “Who has the package?” I asked and Ryder’s lips tipped up slightly.

“Eric is delivering it right now to a friend in the force.”

My shoulders relaxed a little. “Good.”

“While I’m here, there will be no other unexpected packages.” He reassured me.

I nodded. “I wasn’t worried.”

Katie was looking at us both. “Why don’t you go and do some colouring while we wait for your daddy, baby.” She loved colouring and drawing. Her frown dropped, and she took off towards the craft cupboard we had in the kitchen.

I caught Ryder’s eye, and he moved closer to me pulling me into his arms. “Everything is fine.”

“Are you?” I asked worriedly.

“I’m fine, I just have a couple of bruises, but you can rub them better later.”

“Don’t joke. You could have been hurt.”

“Lexi, I know how to look after myself. The only reason the guy got a shot at me was that I saw you through the window and got distracted.”

“I took Katie upstairs when I saw you both.”

“Smart.”

“Mummy, I can’t find my pens!” Katie shouted.

“She can never find them even when they are right in front of her,” I told Ryder. “Coming, baby,”

Ryder kissed my lips softly and mine clung. I stepped away only for him to pull me back using my hand. I turned to face him with a frown

“You look like a sweet factory threw up on you.”

I giggled. “That’s a nice way to describe me.”

“You still look hot don’t get me wrong, but I’ve never seen you look so bright.”

“I let Katie choose my clothes.”

“That explains it then.”

“Mummy, I really want to colour,” Katie called again and this time I could hear her impatience.

Ryder and I walked hand in hand and when he got a look at Katie, he laughed loudly. “How did I miss that before?”

“I think you were a little preoccupied.” I reminded him and immediately wished I hadn’t. His face went like stone and it wasn’t a look I was used to seeing on his handsome face. I saw his shoulders lift with a deep breath and then his face relaxed.

“Coffee, Lexi?”

“Of course,” I screwed my face up. Did he not know me at all?

He shook his head and winked. It broke the tension. I opened the craft cupboard and found the pens Katie couldn’t. “Here baby.” I said as I put them on the table in front of her.

“Thank you, Mummy.”

“You’re welcome.”

She bent over her paper after choosing a colour and her little tongue came out in concentration. I left her to it and went in search of Ryder and my coffee. Questions filled my mind, but I pushed them away. He would tell me later. I couldn’t chance Katie overhearing, and besides, Julian would be here soon. Ryder had a cup in both hands when I walked in.

“Here you go.” He said.

I took the offered cup and brought it to my lips, sighing in delight. “It tastes like Christmas.”

“Christmas?”  His eyebrows crinkled. “I used nutmeg.”

“Wow, I’ve never thought to use it.”

“We’ll keep it our little secret, we wouldn’t want anyone else getting to taste Christmas.”

“I solemnly promise,” With my hand on my heart, I laughed.

“Here’s the plan,” he said as he looked at his watch and his face lost its amusement. “We’ll let Julian see Katie for half an hour then Jen is coming to take her out.”

“Ok, I’ll text Jen.”

“No need. She was at mine with Eric earlier.”

“Oh, really,” I grinned despite the seriousness of the situation.

He shook his head. “You’ll have to ask them what’s going on because I have no clue.”

“Don’t worry; I’m going to be doing that as soon as I get the chance.”

“I don’t doubt you will.”

“She grills me,” I muttered.

“You’re both as bad as each other.”

“Yes, but I’m not going to apologise for it.”

“I don’t expect you too but don’t complain when she asks you a million questions.”

I headed back to Katie with a grin. Ryder followed and sat down beside her. I leaned over to see what she had drawn.

“What’s that Katie?”

“An Antipede,”

“A what?” I frowned, catching Ryder’s eye.

“An Antipede, Mummy,” She repeated while giving me a look that clearly said I was being dumb for not knowing. What the hell was an Antipede?

“Katie?” Ryder said smiling at her. “Do you mean a Centipede?”

She looked up and grinned. “Yes, that’s what I said.”

I opened my mouth to disagree but laughed instead. Ryder covered his face with his hands, but his shoulders were shaking with humour. My girl was silly sometimes. There wasn’t a day that went by that she didn’t make me laugh.

The doorbell chimed, and I tensed.

“Daddy,” Katie said full of excitement. She jumped up and ran to the door, I chased after her but Ryder was faster, he beat us there and opened the door to greet Julian. No words were exchanged between them, Julian’s expression was calm and I figured it was for Katie’s benefit as his body language screamed hostile. Katie ran straight to his arms and Julian’s eyes softened as he got a look at her. He loved her that was clear and even though I could kill him for using our daughter as a shield I honestly didn’t think he would put her in harm’s way on purpose.

“Julian,” I greeted politely. “Katie, baby, why don’t you go and show your daddy your Centipede?”

I ushered her gently towards the kitchen and Julian followed her, listening to her chatter as they went. Ryder looked thoughtful. I looked up in question and he shrugged. “I can’t imagine him putting her in danger.”

“I had the same thought,” I admitted. “He has no idea what he’s got himself into.”

“Nope, it means he’s a dumbass, but it also means he isn’t aware of his debt being sold. There’s no way he’d place Katie in danger.”

“I know. I can see how much he loves her. He thought he was using her as a shield. It doesn’t make it right, but I don’t hate him as much as I did.” I said.

“Hopefully we can help before things get worse.” I shivered as I remembered the man at my window. “They’ve already got worse haven’t they?”

“I’m afraid so, Julian can help us, we need to work out what Jacobson wants and fast. There is no way he would let anyone run up more debt when they owe thousands already without an ulterior motive.”

“Surely he just wants to make money? The more Julian borrows the more he has to pay back right?”

“Julian has no chance of paying what he owed in the first place.”

“Oh.”

“I can’t wait to grill him.”

I bit my lip. “Eric is going with Katie and Jen isn’t he?”

“Yes, Eric won’t let anything happen to either of them.”

Ryder

“You know don’t you?” Julian asked with a frown.

“Know what exactly?”  I’d already decided to play it dumb. Julian had no idea what I did for a living.

He seemed to shrink before my eyes and I waited impatiently for the confession he was about to make. I wanted it all over and him away from the house, and my girls.

“I owe money to some people.”

I raised my eyebrows. “Some people?”

“Ok, loan sharks.”

“How much?” I asked him. I wanted to know if he even knew himself.

“It started off at ten grand but…” he swallowed. “I’m not sure how much it is now.”

Lexi gasped. “Why would you borrow so much?”

“You wouldn’t understand. You have money, more than enough to live like a queen if you wanted to.”

I scoffed. “I know the reason. You threw Lexi over for a woman with a shopping problem, I think the word is shopaholic.”

“I don’t understand. You both work and earn good money.” Lexi said.

“Tammy likes nice things. She deserves nice things.”

“You are seriously deluded. You have to live within your means. She’s over spent, got you into debt and made you borrow from a questionable man, but it sounds like you’re Ok with it.” It pissed me off. He didn’t even sound sorry for what he’d done. He’d put everyone in danger for handbags!

“I’ll pay it back.”

“By gambling at Casino, Casino? Fuck, are you so stupid?”

Julian stood up. “Sit down.” I barked. No way was he leaving yet. He surprisingly did as I ordered. “You owe money to Jacobson.”

“No, that’s not the guy I borrowed money off.”

“You’re right, it isn’t. Jacobson bought your debt. I can only imagine it’s because he wants something from you.”

He looked shocked. “If he’s bought my debt, that means that…” he trailed off.

“Means what?” I snapped. I wanted to hear him acknowledge his fuck up.

He paled. “Katie’s in danger.” He whispered. “I’ve put my baby in danger.”

“She was always in danger, but now it’s serious. Jacobson owns Casino, Casino.”

He placed his head in his hands. “What have I done?”

“You’ve fucked up, that’s what you’ve done but I’ll help you sort it out.”

“How will a nobody like you help me?” He looked down his nose at me, and I shook my head.

“You can turn that regal shit off for a start; you’re as low as a person can get right now.”

His cheeks reddened, and I smirked. Hit a nerve did I? Lexi smacked my arm.

“Ryder works for a detective agency.” She said proudly.

“It’s more a security firm, but yeah I do. I know things about you; in fact, I pretty much know everything about you.”

He sneered. “Oh, really?”

“Julian cut the crap. I’m going to help you, you can’t afford to piss me off.”

“I don’t need you.”

“Katie does.”

I watched him pale again; his face pasty white and satisfaction filled me. It was a low blow, but I wanted to hurt him.

“Fine, but I don’t like it.”

“Believe me, the feeling is mutual.”

“Tammy,” he whispered.

“She’s fine; I have a man watching her.”

“You do?”

“We’ve known about your little problem for a while.”

“Is Katie safe? Will that Eric protect her?” This was aimed at Lexi.

She smiled at him in reassurance. “I would trust him with my life.”

He nodded in understanding. “So you trust him with Katie’s.”

“Yes.”

“We need to know everything, Julian.”

He sighed. Before he could speak I nudged Lexi. “Can you make us some coffee, please, baby?”

She nodded. “Play nice.” She said as she left. Lexi wasn’t stupid; she knew I wanted her out of the way. No doubt she’d hound me later, but I didn’t want her to know everything. It would only upset her and make her worry more. I waited until she was out of sight. She wasn’t the type to ear wag, so I wasn’t worried.

“Right, I know that you’ve been using Katie and Tammy as shields.” He opened his mouth, and I put a hand up. “Don’t deny it, you bastard. I know it’s the truth. The old guy you owed money to never involved families, but Jacobson does. He is one mean son of a bitch and he doesn’t give two shits about who gets hurt.” He’d paled once more. Good. “A man was here earlier. As Lexi had walked into her kitchen, he was standing outside watching her.”

Julian gasped.

“I saw him on the monitor and surprised him. He’s in custody now and I’m waiting to hear what he has to say for himself. The point is you did this. You put my girls in danger and now you are going to help me get them out of it.”

“But how? I don’t know what to do. I can’t sell my house; Tammy would leave me if she found out the trouble I’m in.”

“You’ve fucked up, but she wouldn’t leave you. You need to come clean. She accused Lexi of bleeding you dry when they met in the supermarket. She knows something is up even though she’s on the wrong track.”

“Do you think she would stay?”

“Yeah, but to be honest, I don’t give a shit either way. As far as I’m concerned you can both become bankrupt and live on the streets.”

“I’m Katie’s father. She needs me, she needs stability.”

“Don’t kid yourself. She loves you but she’d cope without you. Lexi would be enough for her.”

“She’s my daughter.”

“I’m not disputing that, but remember what you’ve done and the situation you’ve caused. You’ve placed her in danger.” I pushed a pen and pad across the table. “Write down everything you can remember from your visits to Casino, Casino, I want to know who served you drinks, the people you spoke to, everything. I want names.”

“It could take a while.”

“Take as long as you need. You’re not leaving until I’m satisfied.”

“You do not have the right to talk to me this way.”

I just stared at him. He abruptly looked away picking up the pad and pen he started writing. I bit my tongue. I wanted to smack the pompous wanker, but it wouldn’t help. I’d have plenty of time after we resolved the situation to have a little chat with him.  I grinned unable to help myself; I was looking forward to it.

“Have I been gone long enough?” Lexi asked as she brought in a tray from the kitchen.

I smiled. “Yes, baby, Julian is just writing me a couple of notes.”

“Ok,” She put the tray on to the table. I took the cup she pointed to and had a sip, just how I liked it.

“Has he been helpful?” She asked me. Her tone laced with doubt.

“I am right here you know.”

I ignored him and focused on Lexi. She was worried, and I didn’t like that. “He’s been helpful yes; what he is writing now will help me more.”

She nodded and picked up her cup. Leaning back into the cushions she had all over the sofa she wiggled to get comfortable and her thighs brushed against mine. The blush staining her cheeks made me happy. What she was thinking was clear on her face. I remembered every detail of her naked body. She was beautiful, a goddess and I couldn’t wait to taste her all over. Fuck, now was not the time for these thoughts. I could feel myself growing. I shifted to release some pressure.

“I’ve finished,” Julian said breaking the tension. It was obvious he was displeased with Lexi and me being together, but he had no rights to her.

He slung the pad and pen onto the table and stood up. “I’m going now.” He said and his tone suggested I’d have a fight on my hands if I tried to stop him. I ran my gaze over what he’d written. There were a few names I’d heard of and a couple I hadn’t. I hoped it would give us a start at least. He gave Lexi a blistering glare, and I wanted to smack him, but I fisted my hands.

“Don’t you want to wait for Katie?” Lexi asked despite his glare.

“No, I have things to do.” And with that, he walked out. Lexi jumped when the front door slammed. “Well, that was weird.” She said frowning. “What set him off this time I wonder?”

“I think he’s worked out that we have a relationship.”

“We’ve always had a relationship. Oh, you mean…” she trailed off finally getting it.

“I’m surprised Katie hadn’t already told him.”

She bit her lip. “I hope he doesn’t do anything stupid.”

“Why would he?”

“Well, when he found out my parents were trying to set me up he went ballistic threatening to take me to court for full custody of Katie.”

“He ran off with his personal assistant,” I said as if she needed reminding.

“I know, but he does not like the idea of me moving on.”

“He has no choice.”

“I know that. I’m afraid he’s going to make things uncomfortable for us.”

“He has enough going on surely he won’t?”

“I hope you’re right.” She said although she didn’t sound convinced. After getting a look at the worry in her eyes I wasn’t so sure of my words either.

Turns out I should have listened to her feelings because later on, Julian decided to really fucked up.

We were supposed to be cooking tea, well, Lexi was. I was supposed to be helping, but she’d kicked me out because I kept getting in the way. Lexi had a lot on her mind; I’d finally managed to explain why that man was here and what he was up to. She was not happy, she was worried for Katie and I understood that. The trust in her voice, in her eyes, when she’d told me she knew I would keep them safe was like a punch to the gut. Her beautiful eyes hadn’t strayed from mine while I’d told her the guy was here for her. We didn’t know why even he didn’t know why and wed been persuasive. Did they want to cause harm to her or did they want her for a different reason? We just didn’t know, and that was the worst part.

“Mummy, I’m not very hungry,” Katie said.

I rolled my eyes.

Lexi turned to face her, and I was surprised at just how normal she was acting considering what had happened. “Is that because Aunty Jen let you have two ice-cream scoops?” She asked her daughter.

Katie shook her head. “No, Aunty Jen said no, but I asked Uncle Eric and he gave me one.”

Lexi chuckled and if it sounded forced Katie didn’t notice. “You wait until I get my hands on Uncle Eric.” She grinned. “What do you want to eat then baby?”

“A chocolate spread sandwich please?”

“Ok baby, do you want to eat it while you watch cartoons?”

Katie’s eyes lit up. “Really?”

“Yes, just this once. Just don’t sit on the sofa, remember what happened the last time. The chocolate stains took a long time to get out.”

“Thank you, Mummy.” She tugged on Lexi’s hand and then squealed before running from the room. I heard the TV blaring not one minute later.

“Lexi, are you ok?”

“Yes, no, I don’t know.” She whispered. “I’m tired.” She raised wet eyes to mine.

“When we’ve eaten you get Katie settled into bed and we’ll do the same. It’s been a long day.”

“She goes back to school tomorrow.”

“She’ll be fine. We’ve talked about this.” I gripped her hand in mine.

“You’re right, I’m sorry. I trust you, I just…”

“She’s your baby. I know, I understand, she’s mine too.”

“I think I knew that already, you’ve loved her from your first meeting.”

“She’s a mini you. She’s all you, sweetness.”

“And unfortunately she has a worm for a father. Have you spoken to David about the information Julian gave you?”

“Yes, he’s looking into it. We won’t know more until he confirms names. Eric is on it.”

“With Jen?”

“I expect so. I don’t think Eric would trust her to anyone else.”

“That’s nice.”

“That’s exactly how I feel about you and Katie.”

“Oh.” She looked shocked. “He loves her.”

“Looks like it.”

“I’m so glad. He’s caused her so much pain. I hope he can make up for that.”

“I’m sure he will.”

“Here,” she shoved a plate towards me. “That’s for Katie.”

I screwed my face up in disgust making her laugh.

“It’s actually very nice.”

“I’ll take your word for it.” I laughed as I headed to the living room. Katie didn’t even look up as I entered. She put her hands out for the plate. Once she gripped it I let go and watched her put it down on the floor, her little hand went to the plate and she grabbed a sandwich off it taking a huge bite. She was such a cutie. I walked back to the kitchen seeing Lexi taking the lasagne out of the oven I sniffed in appreciation of it. She made great lasagne but unfortunately, I was not in the least bit hungry, all this business going down had made me lose my appetite, but I knew if I didn’t eat Lexi wouldn’t and she needed to, she needed her strength for all the shit that was ahead of us.

Ryder

“What the fuck!” I growled into the phone. A look at the clock told me it was five in the morning. “How am I only hearing this now?” I asked David.

“Don’t get pissy with me. The guy who was supposed to be watching him is one of yours.” He argued.

“I’m sorry, you’re right. I’ll ring him as soon as we’ve finished. Right now, I need all the information you have.”

“Where’s Lexi?”

I looked over at her sleeping form and slowly got out of bed. She hadn’t flinched when my phone had rung showing just how exhausted she was. “She’s next to me but I’m just about to leave. Hold on a sec.” I said as I walked out the door closing it quietly behind me.  I headed to the kitchen not bothering to turn the lights on. “Ok, what’s happened?”

“All we know is Julian went to Casino, Casino to have a meeting with Jacobson. We don’t know what was said yet.”

“So we basically know fuck all then. How could he be so fucking stupid?”

“Desperate people do desperate things, you know that.” David said, and I agreed but, “I’d offered him my help, but now I don’t know what the situation is or how bad he’s made it.”

“It’s messed up but we’ll find out.”

“How?”

“I have people on it. You’re too close to this. You aren’t thinking straight.”

“Fuck, David, of course, I am. My girls are in danger.” I snapped.

“It wasn’t a complaint Ryder; it was just an observation. I’m just saying that you’re not thinking right. If you were, you would have a plan. You always have a plan.”

“I have a plan. I’m going to find Julian and kick the shit out of him.”

“And there it is, you being a dumbass. That won’t help.”

“Maybe not, but it will feel fantastic.”

“Look, go back to bed, to Lexi and I’ll have some answers hopefully in a couple of hours.”

“That isn’t quick enough for me. I’m going to ring Brian right now and find out why he hasn’t done his job.”

“There’s probably a very good reason why he hasn’t called in.”

“There had better be otherwise he will need to move somewhere that I can’t find him.”

“Ryder, shit. You’ve got to stop threatening harm.”

“It isn’t a threat.”

I heard David sigh loudly. “Go back to Lexi. I’ll call you as soon as I have something.”

“Ok, bye.” I hung up still pissed off.

I dialled Brian and just as I was losing hope he was going to answer, he did. “What the fuck, Brian.” I hissed.

“Ryder,” he said in shock at my anger. “What’s wrong?”

“What’s wrong?” I repeated. “You should have been watching Julian last night yet you didn’t report that he’d gone to have a cosy meeting with Jacobson.”

“Oh, god, Ryder, Lisa went into labour. I rang you but it went straight to answer phone. I tried a few more times but by that time Lisa was going into surgery to have a caesarean and it slipped my mind. I am so sorry.”

My anger evaporated just like that. “Well, fuck, congratulations. Are they both ok?”

“Yes, they’re both good. We had a boy, we’ve named him Daniel.”

“Good choice of name. Congratulations again, I’m sorry I went off on you.”

“You had a good reason. I’m sorry Julian did that, I guess he’s made everything worse now?”

“We don’t know yet what he’s done but we’ll find out. Take care of your family, me and Lexi will come see you as soon as you’re all home.”

“I’d like that. Take care, Ryder.”

“You too,”

I ended the call feeling like a complete dick, I would have done exactly the same thing although he could have left a voicemail. I shook my head; I might as well go back to Lexi and the warmth of our bed. David would ring me. There wasn’t anything else I could do. I slid into bed and pulled Lexi into my arms. She groaned softly, and I grinned.  Cradling her closer to my body my hands roamed her body in a tickling caress. She moved into my hands when I cupped her breasts, gently squeezing them. Her whimper told me she’d woken up fully, and I brushed the hair from her face kissing her ear before whispering good morning. My hand slipped into her silk knickers and parted her delicate folds, running through her wetness. She pushed her body into my hand and I slipped a finger into her pussy teasing her with small movements, I knew wouldn’t be enough. I licked the shell of her ear, blowing gently on the wetness and she shivered. “Ryder, please.” She begged.

“You want me, baby?”

“Always,” She promised.

I took my hand away, and she groaned in disappointment. I moved down the bed pulling her knickers down her legs and I threw them to the floor. I looked at the clock and grinned. “Katie will be up soon so this will be short and sweet.”

He eyes widened as I parted her thighs and positioned myself between them. I pushed my cock through her folds testing her wetness; sure enough, she was ready for me I thrust in hard. I leaned down and caught her mouth with mine swallowing her scream. I knew it was from pleasure not pain that had her calling my name, the wetness coating my cock and the way she was pulling at my body told me that. Her eyes were closed in ecstasy and the expression on her face had me moving faster.  Her breathing was quick and her muscles clenched around me so tightly I knew she was close. Using my thumb I reached between us and rubbed her clit hard, she arched off the bed and I slammed my mouth on hers just as she screamed out in pleasure. Her whole body tensed and clung to mine. I didn’t have time to worry if Katie had heard her scream because my balls tightened and I groaned loudly as my world splintered. The pleasure so intense I felt like I could pass out from it. Never have I ever experienced anything like it before. I collapsed carefully keeping my weight off her using my elbows.

“That was one hell of a wake-up.” She said with a giggle and I leaned down to kiss her. “I think we might have woken Katie,” I said as I slipped from her lush body and tugged on my jeans just as I heard footsteps running down the hallway. Lexi grabbed the duvet and pulled it over her naked body as Katie opened the door and dived onto the bed, jumping up and down.

“Morning, Mummy.” She laughed as her hair fell into her eyes and she roughly pushed it away with one hand. “Where is Ryder?” She asked.

“Right behind you, baby,” I answered after I tugged on my t-shirt.

“I have school today; can I please have pancakes for breakfast?”

“Sure you can, mine or your mummy’s?”

“Yours please, they are the best.”

I looked at Lexi hoping it didn’t upset her that Katie thought that. I didn’t need to worry, she was grinning. “She’s right, yours are better.”

“Ok, cool, let’s get them started while your mummy gets up.”

“Can I stir?” Katie asked as we left the room.

“Sure, but I’m doing the measuring.”

I heard Lexi giggle, and I shook my head. Lexi had once before let Katie measure the ingredients for her muffins and they’d turned out disgusting. Of course, no one had had the heart to tell Katie, so we’d all eaten two each and sneaked the rest in the bin later when she’d gone to bed.

“Ok.” She sulked.

“We don’t have time this morning, but maybe at the weekend,” I added. I hated seeing her upset.

“Thanks, Ryder.” She bounced to the kitchen. That was much better.

We made pancakes, I started the coffee and Lexi finally appeared wearing black skinny jeans and a grey jumper. The jumper was slipping off one shoulder and fuck if it didn’t make me want to tear it off her and kiss the bare skin. What was this woman doing to me?

“Can I help?” She asked in a husky voice.

I blinked. She was weaving a web of desire around me without even being aware of it. “You can finish the coffee; I’ll get the pancakes out of the oven.”

“Katie, what do you want for lunch today?”

“Chocolate spread sandwich please.”

“Chocolate spread it is.” I could see Lexi was nervous about Katie going to school this morning. She had no reason to be worried though. Katie had the best men with her, two of mine and one of David’s. She would be safe. I didn’t think she was in danger though. Jacobson wanted Lexi, and I wished I knew why. I watched her make the sandwich like she had done it a hundred times before which was likely true, she put it in the lunchbox closed the lid and put it on the kitchen table with Katie’s book bag. I carried the pancakes over and sat down. Katie helped herself while I waited for Lexi and the coffee.

All too soon breakfast was over and it was time for school. Lexi held her close all the way to the car. I locked up the house and scouted out the two cars that would be shadowing us. Giving them a nod, I helped the girls into the car and got in myself ready to drive us to school.

“It will be fine Lexi, you’ll see.” I half whispered.

She nodded and seemed to cheer up, but I was sure it was a front for Katie’s benefit. “Radio or CD baby?”

“CD.” She bounced in her seat.

Lexi turned it on. All I had was Metallica, but she was soon head-banging in her seat. When we got to the gates, I lowered the volume. “Do you want me to walk with you?”

“Yes, please Ryder,” This came from Katie. “I want to show you to my friends.”

Lexi snorted. “Me too,” She winked at Katie.

God, she was goofy. We all walked hand in hand, Katie in the middle. I’d never seen her so happy. I could definitely get used to this. She pulled away from us once we were on the playground and ran to a little girl. She tugged her by the hand to stand in front of me. “Maisie, this is Ryder.”

The girl lifted a hand and smiled shyly. “Hi.”

The bell rang and Katie grabbed her bags from Lexi and stood still to let her kiss her. She looked up at me then hugged me around the legs before letting go and running to the classroom. “Bye Mummy, bye Ryder,” She shouted over her shoulder. I waved as she ran off. Lexi looked like she wanted to call her back but she bit her lip. “She will be fine,” I said again.

I didn’t want her worrying, but a part of me was doing exactly the same. Once Katie disappeared into her classroom, I grabbed Lexi’s hand. “There are four men here keeping watch. The head teacher knows what is going on and will call the police if it’s needed. She’s also agreed not to let Julian anywhere near Katie.”

Lexi sighed. “I know you’ve done everything you can to keep her safe it’s just, she’s my baby, it would kill me if anything happened to her.”

“Nothing will,” I promised.

She nodded.

“Come on; I’ll let you choose the music.”

“Could we stop for coffee somewhere? I don’t want to go home just yet.”

“Sure, whatever the lady desires.”

“Maybe a toy shop so I can get a surprise for Katie too.”

“You’ll spoil her.” I teased.

“She may be a little spoiled already but she knows the value of things.”

“She’s a good kid.”

“Yes, she is.”

****

We stopped for coffee and after finishing it Lexi brought Katie a selection of blind bags. I’d never heard of them before, but apparently, you get a surprise toy in them that you can collect. Katie collected pretty much all the girly doll ones so Lexi chose five for her. Now, I was sitting at the table watching Lexi act like a madwoman. She’d cleaned the entire kitchen glaring daggers at me when I’d told her that it was spotless already. Then I’d offer to help her with the imaginary dust and she’d waved me away. When she’d moved to the living room I’d offered to hoover, but I could see she needed to keep busy so I gave up and made coffee instead. She’d come in to get a cup when I’d called her and then she’d got the iron out. I was worried about what she would find to do tomorrow to keep her busy; I think ringing Jen and asking her to ask for Lexi’s help would be a good idea. Lexi could keep herself distracted. I’d stay there with her of course and be bored out of my mind, but at least my woman would be occupied.

I got up and walked to the bathroom. Lexi didn’t even notice. I hated for her to be so worried but until the situation was resolved, this was how it would be. I closed the bathroom door and did my business. Looking in the mirror as I washed my hands I could see the strain on my face. I was just opening the door when a bang came from the front door. Frowning, I headed towards it; it was probably the postman. Nothing was on the mat. I opened the door and looked around. I couldn’t see anything. Something didn’t feel right. I was about to go back inside when I saw Eric walking towards me with Julian trailing behind him.

“What the fuck are you doing here?” I growled taking a step towards him.

“Not the time Ryder.” Eric snapped in a whisper. I followed the direction of his stare and saw Lexi standing in front of the window. Her body language screamed scared.

“The sound was a diversion, and I fell for it.” I grimaced.

“We need a plan,” Eric ordered.

“He won’t hurt her. Jacobson wants her alive and unharmed.” Julian explained.

“You fucking did this.” He hung his head in shame. He might be sorry, but it didn’t help us now.

“Let me go to her.”

“Are you out of your mind? I’m not entrusting her life to you.”

“I recognise the man with her, he was at the meeting I had with Jacobson last night when I agreed to kidnap Lexi for him.”

I fisted my hands to stop myself killing him. Lexi came first, I’d have my time with Julian later.

“He won’t think I’m here to stop him.”

“Ryder, I don’t like it either but it’s probably our best option right now. We don’t know what weapon he has. Do you really want to risk her getting hurt?”

I shook my head. “Fuck, if she gets hurt I’ll kill you,” I told Julian.

“If that happens, I’ll kill myself,” He replied. I watched him shake himself then he walked straight to the front door and let himself in.

I could hear muffled speech and I nodded to Eric. He went one way to the back of the house and I went the other. Both of us crouched down on either side of the door out of sight. I prayed Julian wouldn’t get her hurt. I could see them through the window now. It looked relaxed, the guy had Lexi by her bicep but other than fear on her face I couldn’t see pain. Julian walked towards the door and the guy followed half dragging Lexi with him. I ducked out of sight again, tensed and ready to pounce. Julian caught my eye as he opened the door when they’d all cleared the deck and stood on solid ground I lunged at the guy pushing him away from Lexi. He let go of her in surprise and she stumbled. I caught her up in my arms before she fell to the floor and tugged her behind me. The guy wasn’t down for long; he jumped to his feet and looked between us.

“Jacobson will have her. If I don’t take her in someone else will.”

I frowned at the nerve of him. He had three men surrounding him who clearly wanted to hurt him yet he didn’t seem bothered by it.

“He will never get her!” Julian screamed and then he tackled the guy to the floor. He punched him in the face until there was blood everywhere. Eric managed to pull him off of him, but it was a struggle. I kept Lexi turned away from it so she didn’t see all the blood, but it was obvious from the sounds what was going on. Julian had lost it. His knuckles were bloody, and he looked like he was in a daze.

“I need to call an ambulance then the police, he’s a fucking mess,” Eric said into the strained silence. Lexi seemed to come back to herself then, I felt her body shake, and I pulled her into my arms as I heard the first sob pass her lips.

“Hey, baby, you’ve been so brave. Don’t look at him.”

She nodded, and I bent down and scooped her up holding her close to my chest. Walking past Julian and Eric I headed for the front door. Eric had the situation under control. Julian still looked shocked, but at least he was standing. I needed to grill Julian about the meeting he’d had, but I also wanted to know why he was with Eric. If they hadn’t come when they did I don’t know what would have happened. Chances are I would have got her away from him but I’m not sure in what state she would have been in. At least the only person hurt was the stranger, and I didn’t give a shit about that. He shouldn’t have come after Lexi. Julian might need counselling though, I have no idea what the fuck got into him but I’m kind of grateful. I leaned Lexi on my knee as I opened the front door kicking it closed behind me. I walked straight to the sofa and sat down with her on my lap.

“Can you talk about it sweetness?”

She peered up at me, her hands clenched around my shirt sleeves. “He said he’d come for me because Mr Jacobson has a deal with Julian.” She looked shattered by that information and I gave her a reassuring squeeze.

“Julian came here to help by the look of his actions. He stopped that man taking you.”

She shuddered. “I saw. There was so much blood.”

“Better his than yours Lexi.”

She grimaced. “The man said Jacobson has big plans for me and my body.” She whispered.

Anger raced through me and I wanted to go and tear Jacobson apart, I wanted to rip his head off and piss down his throat. “He will never get close to you. I promise. We will put him away before he tries again.”

“I hope so because I do not like the sound of him. I don’t want anyone touching me, but you.”

“And no one but me will, Ok?”

She nodded and snuggled closer pushing her face into the crook of my neck. I brushed my hand down her back feeling her body relax. I wasn’t sure how long we sat like that, but when flashing lights flickered through the windows, I gave her a little squeeze. “Lexi, I need to go outside and talk to the police. Will you be Ok? You can come with me but I’d rather you didn’t, you’ve been through enough today.”

“I’ll go and shower.”

“Sure baby. I’ll ring Jen and ask her and Eric to collect Katie from school then you can relax.”

“No, I want to pick her up.”

“We’ll go together. Go and shower and I’ll come to you when we’re done.”

“Will Julian be in trouble for what he did?”

“It was self-defence.”

She pressed her lips together and got up off my lap. I stood and wrapped my arms around her pulling her against me. “I love you, Lexi.”

“I love you too.”  She sighed deeply and moved out of my arms. “I’ll see you later.”

Lexi

I lay back on my bed with my eyes closed. Ryder thought I was worried about myself, but in that moment, when that man had grabbed me, my first thought had been Katie, my second, Ryder himself because I knew he would never leave me alone and I’d been terrified he was hurt. I’m so thankful he wasn’t. If someone had tried to get Katie, we would have had a phone call that was something I was grateful for. I could not cope with her being in danger, and now with that man spouting his mouth off, we knew that he was only after me. As much as that scared me I was glad my baby girl wasn’t the target.

Seeing Julian like that, as if he wanted to kill that man, freaked me out. The blood on his knuckles made me feel sick. He was a stranger to me. I hadn’t known he was capable of so much violence. I didn’t want a shower and pretend everything was normal, wanted to go and collect Katie and hold her until I felt better, but it wasn’t home time yet and me turning up early would worry her. What I needed were answers. Two men in two days have tried to kidnap me and I wanted to know why this Jacobson had sent them and how he even knew who I was. I know that Ryder will try to hide things from me, it’s in his nature to protect me, but I had a right to know. I didn’t want to cower behind him; I wanted to go and kick some ass.

I wasn’t sure how long I lay here waiting on Ryder. Many ways of how to hurt the unknown Jacobson flitted through my brain and I hadn’t managed to choose one when Ryder walked through the door.

“You didn’t shower.” He stated.

“Nope,” I shook my head at the wary look on his face. “I’d like some answers, please.”

“Lexi, you don’t need to know anything.”

“Yes, I do.” I snapped. “I’m the one in danger along with my daughter. I deserve to know what I’m facing.”

“I’ll protect you from whatever comes our way.”

“I know you will, I’ve never doubted that, but I need to know Ryder. Can’t you understand that?”

He sighed. “I’m sorry I didn’t protect you earlier.”

“It’s not your fault Ryder. The man snuck up on me.”

“I should have been there to stop him.”

“You were there, you did stop him.” I sat up and put a hand out to him, he gripped it tightly and yanked me up until our bodies touched. “It’s not your fault, its Julian’s.”

“I know it’s his. He is sorry though, him today, beating up that guy was his way of looking out for you. He knows he’s messed up big style.”

“Well, if only he’d thought about the consequences before doing the crap he did.”

“He’s wised up now and trying to make amends.”

“If Katie gets hurt because of him I’ll kill him,” I warned, and I was pretty sure I was speaking the truth.

“If Katie or you get hurt, I’ll kill him myself. That’s not going to happen though; you’re both going to be on lockdown.”

“Can you tell me what’s going on now, please?”

He didn’t look happy, he’d already said he didn’t think I needed the details, but I knew he’d tell me. I needed to know, so I had the whole picture. He didn’t like it but Ryder hated to see me upset and if I had to use that knowledge to get my way I would.

“Sit down Lexi.” He said gently and waited until I did. He stood in front of me with his hands in his jeans pockets. “Julian sold me out.”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean after he left here, he arranged a meeting with Jacobson and told him what I’d told him.”

I gasped. “He told him everything? That means he knows you’re investigating him.”

Ryder nodded. “He also made Julian an offer. If Julian takes you to him, he will forget his debt.”

“But why, I mean, I don’t know him.”

His lips pressed together before he spoke. “Jacobson saw you through the window of the salon one day and decided he had to have you.”

“Oh god.”

“It gets worse baby so brace yourself.”

I nodded feeling sick.

“Once he found out who you were he had you and your family investigated. He saw Julian had an outstanding debt and decided to buy it and use him to get to you.”

“That creeps me out.”

“The next part was making sure Julian got into so much debt at the casino that he was drowning in it with no way out.”

“And then he offered to forget it in exchange for me. That’s so ruthless and well thought out. Why did he send those men though if he wanted Julian to get me?”

“Because he couldn’t be sure Julian would play ball.”

“I’m guessing Julian didn’t agree that’s why he’s here today?” I asked a little warily. I wasn’t sure if I could trust Julian. You think you know someone and then, Bam, they turn out to be a gambler from hell.

“Julian deeply regrets going to see him, but he was angry at me. He wanted to make me pay.”

“That’s ridiculous. You were trying to keep me and Katie safe.”

“I hit a nerve. He doesn’t have the resources so he can’t keep you both out of trouble and it stung his pride to have me ordering him around.”

“At least he seems to be on our side now. I hope he feels bad for putting our daughter in danger.”

“Talking of Katie, I’ve asked Jen and Eric to pick her up from school and take her out for tea.”

I opened my mouth to protest, but he held a hand up. “You’re coming with me to my office to meet David. We’re going to put an end to this business.”

“How?”

“I’m not sure as yet. David said he has a plan but he wouldn’t explain over the phone.”

“So I’m going to get to see where you work? We aren’t staying are we?”

“No, I wouldn’t expect you to leave Katie overnight. We will be back for bedtime, I promise.”

“Good. Let’s do this then.” I stood up with a grin.

He laughed as he watched me almost run to the door in my excitement.

“What’s so funny?”

“You’re so goofy.”

I frowned. “Is that a compliment?”

He grinned, “Definitely.”

“That’s ok then.”

****

The drive to Ryder’s office felt long. Julian sat in the back with bandages on his knuckles and a huge grin on his face. He was pleased with himself for saving me. I, however, was still mad at him for causing the situation in the first place, so I wasn’t speaking to him. Ryder hadn’t told me that Julian was coming along for the ride even though he’d had time. I’d opened the car door and saw him sat there. I’d glared at Ryder knowing he’d kept it from me on purpose but he’d just shrugged. We need him, he’d said, and that was it. End of conversation. I got why he didn’t tell me, I might have tried to back out of going with him by pretending to be sick, which wasn’t a stretch after the day I’d had, but he needed me to stay with him to be able to keep me safe. He knew me too well. If David has a plan, then we have to go I just wish I didn’t have to look at Julian’s smug face while we did it.

“How much longer?” I grimaced.

Ryder touched a hand to my leg and squeezed gently. “About ten minutes baby.”

“Good. I need some fresh air.”

“Me too, it’s stuffy in here,” Julian added.

“You could have stayed at home,” I said through my teeth.

“I saved you. Don’t you think you should forgive me for my past sins?”

“Excuse me?” I screeched. Was he on drugs?

He sighed in exasperation and my hand went to the release on my seatbelt. I had every intention of launching myself at him but Ryder put a hand over mine stilling the action.

“He isn’t worth it.”

“I’m not sure about that. Right now I could kill him.”

“Lexi, why are you being like this? I stopped that man from taking you.”

Ryder pulled into a space outside a tall building. I turned to face Julian. “You are the reason he was there in the first place. You may have forgotten that, but I haven’t.” I hissed.

“I’m trying to make up for it.” He said sadly.

“I want to believe that but at this moment I don’t trust you,” I admitted.

He looked hurt, and I almost laughed. How could he think it could be forgotten just like that?

“We are here guys. Julian, don’t be a dick or I’ll deck you. I don’t want Lexi upset.”

“I won’t upset her. I’m here to help.”

“And that’s a good thing because it reminds me not to beat the shit out of you.”

“I’d like to see you try,” Julian muttered.

I shook my head at his stupidity. “You really are a douche. You’ve probably always been one, but this situation is making it more noticeable.”

Ryder opened his door and climbed out, meeting me at my door. He pulled his wallet from his pocket and took a key card out. When we got to the office door, he swiped it and then tugged me inside, with Julian following behind us. I looked around the place. It was quite bland, I wasn’t sure what I’d expected, but it hadn’t been white walls and paintings of fields and flowers. He led us towards a hallway of closed doors and knocked on one. Someone called for us to enter and that’s what we did. A man with dark hair and eyes so blue stood up from behind a huge desk, he walked towards us when he saw Ryder and the clapped each other on the back in greeting. He turned to look at me and I smiled shyly.

“Hi,” I said and gave a little wave instantly blushing. What was wrong with me? Ryder laughed.

David grinned. “Hello.”

“David, this is Lexi. The guy behind us is Julian.”

His eyes went over my head and his expression turned hard. “So, you’re Julian.”

“Sure am.”

Why on earth did he sound proud of it? My ex-husband was an idiot.

David ushered us into his office and closed the door. I walked over to the sofa and sat down, Ryder did the same. Julian stayed standing, he looked like he wanted to bolt and I figured he’d just realised that David was dangerous. Ryder was too, but Julian knew he was safe from him as long as he didn’t hurt me. Ryder always softened when he looked at me but David didn’t look like he had a soft bone in his body and his wife wasn’t here to make him smile. It was plain to see he didn’t like Julian. I didn’t blame him, I didn’t like Julian either.

“Right, should we talk about the fuck up that you are?” David asked Julian getting straight to the point.

Julian grimaced. “I’ve done a lot of bad things.”

“At least you admit it. That’s a start.”

“Why wouldn’t I admit it when you all know about them? I need your help to get Katie and Lexi out of harm’s way. Ryder said Tammy is safe?” He asked.

“Yes, she and Katie are being looked after. They have round-the-clock security. We need a solution and I have one, but it could be risky.”

“I’ll do anything,” Julian said.

I believed him. He kept surprising me.

“You are going to set up a meeting with Jacobson wearing a wire and you will tell him you have Lexi for him.”

I gasped. “If he wears a wire, they might find it and they’ll hurt him.”

“They won’t find it,” David said, and he had me convinced. He seemed very sure.

“Will he have me?”

“No, he fucking won’t.” Ryder snapped. “You’re not putting her in danger.”

David held his hands out in front of him as if to ward Ryder off. Ryder did look angry enough to punch him. “Shit, Ryder, of course, he won’t really have her. I would never put her in danger.”

I grabbed Ryder’s hand and gripped it in both hands.

“Sorry,” Ryder said sheepishly.

“No problem, I’d be pissed to if I thought you wanted to put Chloe in danger. Look, the plan is to have a look-alike dressed as Lexi in a location ready to be collected by Jacobson himself.”

I shook my head. “That won’t work. Ryder said he never does his own dirty work.”

“Usually I would agree, but this time he will do it. He is obsessed with you. If Julian says he can only have your location if he goes for you himself he will go. I’m sure of it. He won’t get the location otherwise.”

“Wouldn’t he just beat me until I talked?”

I shuddered. As much as I didn’t like Julian right now I didn’t want him to get hurt.

“Not if you tell him that you have to be free before he receives the location. That your friend has her and her location is unknown to you. He’s a monster but like I said he is obsessed, he will do whatever it takes to get his hands on her.”

“That completely freaks me out. I’ve never met him.”

“It makes me furious that I can’t just track him down and make him hurt,” Ryder confessed.

“If you did that, it would be you in prison and not him,” David said.

“I know, and my girls would be unprotected. Don’t think I haven’t tried to think of a way around it.”

“I know you have and so have I, but this is our only option. Julian, are you up for it?”

“Definitely, it might even be fun.”

“Dumbass,” I said as I looked at Julian. He grinned. 

“How does this land him in prison?” Julian asked.

“You will record your conversation with him. A conversation in which you will be offering Lexi as payment towards a debt you owe Jacobson, and he will accept. That is definitely not something a law abiding person would do.”

“Ok, that sounds like a plan. How will this happen? I mean he’s already sent two men to kidnap me after Julian failed to deliver.”

“Julian will explain that he’s had a change of heart and that he doesn’t want to be in debt anymore. He wants full custody of his daughter and with you, out of the way he will get it.”

Julian nodded. “I can get behind that plan.”

“It’s a good plan with some truth to it.” David agreed.

I knew Julian wanted to be debt free but the whole full custody thing was probably more truthful.

“Just as long as Julian remembers that it’s not really going to happen. He would never get full custody of Katie.” Ryder added.

“I understand.” Julian grimaced. “How do I set up the meeting?”

“The same way you did last time. Make sure you sound angry and believable.”

“That won’t be hard. I want to tear him apart for wanting to get his hands on Lexi.”

“We have that in common except I want to do it to you first, and then him.”

“Ok, boys, no one is tearing anyone apart,” David said. He looked at Julian. “Make the call.”

“Right now? I don’t like having an audience.”

“Tough shit,” Ryder grunted.

Julian pulled his phone out of his pocket and dialled. He turned his back to us. I closed my eyes and rested my head on Ryder’s shoulder. I knew it wasn’t true what he was offering, but it was still horrible to hear. I wanted to wake up from this nightmare. Being offered up for a debt like I was a piece of cattle is sick. A normal, sane man would never in a million years take the offer let alone make it. I heard movement, and I opened my eyes. Julian stared at me sadly. “I’m sorry I did this to you.”

I nodded. “Did he accept?”

“He wants to meet at nine tonight. I guess he’s anxious to have you.”

I grimaced at the thought. “Who will be pretending to be me?” I asked David worriedly. I didn’t want someone to get hurt because of me.

“A friend of mine, she’s a trained officer and knows what she’s getting into. She will be fine.”

“Ok.”

“You’ll need to hide out until this is over. You can’t go home.”

“She’s going to be at my house. I sorted things out before we came here. Eric and Jen have everything you and Katie will need packed at mine already.”

“Ok, good. You two go home. Julian will stay here and we’ll go through the details.”

“Fine by me, but I want regular updates.”

“And you’ll get them.”

“Say hello to Chloe for me. It’s a shame Lexi never got to meet her.”

“We’ll arrange it when this shit is over.”

“Sounds like a plan,” Ryder said. He stood and shook David’s hand. “Sorry again for shouting at you.”

“No problem.”

“Julian, don’t fuck up else Jacobson will be the least of your worries.”

“Understood,” Julian said.  “It will be all over soon Lexi.”

“I hope so. Be careful.”

“I will.”

“David, thank you. It was nice to meet you.”

“You too Lexi, next time we see you it will hopefully be under better circumstances.”

Ryder tugged me towards the door. “Let’s go home.”

“Yes, lets,” I said.

Julian still stood by the door and I pulled free of Ryder and put my arms around him hugging him tightly. “I meant what I said, be careful. Please.” I whispered. I felt him start and then his arms closed around me squeezing tightly before he gently pushed me away. “I will Lexi, I promise.”

Ryder looked odd when I caught his eyes, he linked our hands again and we walked out of the office and towards the car. He opened the door for me and buckled me in. He was quiet as he climbed in beside me and I waited for him to speak. Was he in a mood that I’d hugged Julian? It didn’t seem like something that would usually upset him.

“You are too soft, Lexi.” He almost growled.

“Too soft?” I asked in confusion.

“You just hugged the man who caused all this and I know you are genuinely concerned about him.”

“Yes…” I trailed off as his eyes flashed.

“I want to rip his head off and you don’t want him to get hurt even though he probably deserves it.”

“I don’t want him hurt, he’s Katie’s dad. It would hurt her if something happened to him.”

“That’s why you’re a good mother.”

“So you’re not mad I hugged him?”

“No, I’m not mad that you hugged him. Its sweet you’re worried for him, but you’ve ruined my plan, I was going to knock him around a bit once you were safe.”

I gasped. “You thought about doing that?”

“I planned on doing that, but I figure you won’t want me too so I won’t.”

I bit my lip. “I would rather you didn’t, but I understand why you want to. I do too, I’ve even fantasised about it.”

“You fantasise about me beating Julian up?”

“No, I fantasise about beating him up myself except I’m not me, I’m Wonder Woman and I have a kick-ass swing that knocks him out in one punch.”

“Now that’s sexy.”

“It is? Maybe I should buy a costume and try it out on you?” I laughed.

“That could be fun.” He sobered. “Let’s get you safe first though.”

“Yes, then we can go shopping.”

He leaned over and kissed me softly on my lips. I kept my eyes open and watched the emotions cross his face. If ever I worried that he didn’t love me, I had my proof right there. The love in his eyes was mesmerising and when he pulled away and winked I grinned. I might be in danger, but with Ryder, at my side, I wasn’t too scared. If Julian messed up, Ryder wouldn’t stop until he found a solution and Jacobson was in prison.

Lexi

We finally made it to Ryder’s house and when I opened the door a sad-faced Katie stood there with Jen. “Oh Katie,” I cried as I saw her tear stained cheeks. I pulled her into my arms and rocked her gently. “What’s happened?” I asked Jen.

“She knew something was up when we collected her instead of you,” Jen said and then she shook her head at the question in my eyes. She hadn’t told Katie anything. That was good. I didn’t want her to find out what a mess up her father was. I gave Katie a squeeze and picked her up. She was getting too big to be carried, but I didn’t want to let her go. I sank onto the sofa and moved her more securely on my lap running my fingers through her hair, I sighed. “Baby, your daddy has done a really stupid thing but Ryder and I went to see Ryder’s friend David and he’s going to help your daddy.”

She looked up anxiously. She was a bright girl for her age; I could see her thinking over what I’d said. “Will my daddy get hurt?”

“No, David will make sure that doesn’t happen.”

“Ryder?”

“Yes, Katie?”

“Is David your best friend?”

“Yes.”

“Then I know my daddy will be safe. If Ryder loves David and David loves Ryder then David is my uncle and my uncle won’t let my daddy get hurt.”

I grinned at her logic.

“You’re right baby. David won’t let your daddy get hurt.” Ryder agreed.

“Good.” Katie smiled at me through her tears. “May I have a cookie now, please?”

“You my darling can have anything you want.”

Ryder held his hand out. “Come with me and I’ll help you find one.”

“Ok Ryder.” She jumped off my lap and took his hand. The sight brought tears to my eyes.

I bit my lip then looked at Jen. She sat next to me and took my hand in hers. “Are you ok?”

“Yeah, I am now.” I shook my head. “I was so scared at the time.”

“A strange man trying to kidnap me would have terrified me too. Eric told me what Julian did.”

“It was crazy.”

“I don’t disagree, but he stopped a strange man from kidnapping you from your own home.”

“He did.” I agreed. “Do you want to know what he said in the car?”

She nodded.

“He said I should forgive him for everything. Can you believe that?”

“Lexi, you don’t hold grudges.”

“I nearly threw myself at him so I could hurt him.”

“He’s a thoughtless idiot.”

“He is, but he’s also putting himself in danger tonight to save me.”

“How?”

I explained the plan.

“He’s trying to make amends.”

“I hope it works out. I don’t want him to get hurt.”

“I can’t imagine he will with David on his side, from what you’ve said he seems sure of the plan. Do you trust him?”

“David?”

“Yes.”

“Ryder does and I trust him.”

“By this time tomorrow it could all be over and your life can go back to normal.”

“I’m afraid to hope,” I admitted.

“Then I’ll do it for you.” She put her arm around me and I leaned my head on her shoulder.

“Thanks, Jen.”

“For what?”

“For being the best friend a girl could ask for.”

“Right back at you, babe. Shall I make you some coffee? I think I’ve got the hang of Ryder’s fancy coffee machine.”

I giggled. “Sure, it will be fun to watch.”

“Oh, ha ha,” She muttered.

“Anything digital is a puzzle to you.”

“I can work my phone.”

“You can now I’ve shown you a thousand times.”

“Whatever.” She stomped off into the kitchen grinning.

I followed her feeling a bit better. Katie was sat at the table eating and Ryder stood leaning against the side. He frowned when Jen made her way to the coffee machine.

“I’ll make the coffee.” He offered.

“No, I can do it.”

“No, you can’t,” Eric said as he came in the back door.

She turned to face him with a scowl. “Yes I can, I made the last pot.”

He shook his head. “I did actually, while you were talking to Katie earlier. I threw yours out and made a fresh pot.”

“What?” She almost screeched.

“Oh boy,” I muttered. Jen glared at me. I hid my grin and sat down next to Katie. There were crumbs on her lips and brushed them off with my thumb making her giggle.

“It was disgusting. I didn’t even know it was possible to ruin coffee like that.”

“I wasn’t that bad. I followed the instructions.”

“I did too, and mine is delicious.” He said with a smugness he didn’t try to hide.

“Wow, you are a…” She trailed off when she saw Katie staring at her.

“Aunty Jen, why are you always mad at Uncle Eric?”

“That’s a good question, Katie.” Eric grinned.

“Your Uncle Eric likes to tease me.” Jen grimaced.

“Is that because he loves you?”  Katie asked innocently.

My eyes flew to Eric. “Yes, Katie it’s because I love your Aunty Jen.”

Jen gasped in shock and then hurried out of the room.

“I thought so. Ryder teases my mummy all the time, and he loves her.”

Kids make things so simple.

“Is that the first time you’ve said the words since you’ve seen her again?” I asked Eric.

When he nodded, I tutted at his stupidity, “You’d better go and make sure she believes you and doesn’t think you said it for Katie’s benefit.”

“Surely she wouldn’t think I would do something like that?”

“I would if I was her,” I said honestly.

“Oh, god,” He said as he rushed out of the room.

“I hope that will be a happy beginning for them,” I said.

“It seems like it might be.”

“I think you’re right. I wonder if he will tell her the reason why he left her.”

“I’m sure he will. He won’t be able to have the fresh start he wants with her if he doesn’t.”

“I hope it’s nothing to do with another woman,” I said as I got up and walked to the cupboard. I pulled out two cups and poured the rest of the coffee into them.

“Eric would never cheat baby,” Ryder said as he followed me. “He isn’t that kind of man.”

“Julian didn’t seem the type and look what happened.”

“Julian is a selfish man who put himself before his family. I wouldn’t have you hurt for the world but if Julian hadn’t done what he did, I wouldn’t have you and Katie in my life.”

“The hurt and pain were worth it as I have you as my prize.” I grinned.

“I’m a pretty great prize.”

“You’re a sweet one.”

He groaned. “Lexi,” he whispered as he pulled me into his arms.

I looked up at him with a smile. “Yes?”

“I love you so much.”

“I love you too.”

“Will you marry me?”

“What?” I whispered.

“Life is too short to put things off. I want you wearing my ring and bearing my name.”

“Oh, wow…” I trailed off. All of my doubts from before seemed silly now. “Yes,” I whispered.

“Yes?” he whispered back. “You’ll marry me?”

“Yes, I’ll marry you,” I confirmed with a giggle.

He picked me up suddenly and swung me around making me squeal in surprise. I gripped his shoulders and looked down into his smiling eyes.

Katie ran in with Jen and Eric not far behind.

“We’re getting married,” Ryder announced as he let my feet touch the ground.

Katie jumped up and down in glee.

“Oh, guys I’m so happy for you,” Jen said as she gave me an awkward hug due to Ryder not letting go of me.

Eric clapped him on the back and then bent to kiss my cheek. “Congratulations.”

“Thanks,” I said still feeling a little shell-shocked.

“I’m going to have two daddies,” Katie said excitedly. “I can’t wait to tell all my friends.”

“Let’s not tell anyone just yet,” I ordered softly. Ryder frowned before understanding dawned. Julian could not find out until tonight was over. I wasn’t sure how he was going to take it and I didn’t want his mind on anything else except his mission otherwise he could get hurt.

“Ok, deal but we are celebrating though. I can cook.” Jen offered.

“Takeaway it is then,” Eric said and for once Jen didn’t argue.

“That settles it. I’ll open a bottle of wine unless Ryder has champagne somewhere?” I asked him.

“I don’t, sorry.”

“Wine it is then.”

“Sounds good, I’ll get the glasses,” Jen said.

“I have to pop upstairs. I’ll be back in a second.” Ryder said as he walked out the room. I watched his bum, not in the least bit embarrassed. He was gorgeous, and he was going to be my husband. That felt so surreal. I was just pouring the wine into glasses when he came back in. Walking straight to me he went down on one knee, he had a box in his hand and my hand flew to my mouth when he opened it. “I’d meant to do this properly the first time,” He explained. “But I got lost in the moment. Lexi, will you marry me?”

I held out my hand for him to slip the ring on. “Yes.” I whispered. The ring was beautiful; the square cut diamond sparkled in the light.

Jen whistled, “Holy crap Lexi that is one gorgeous ring.”

“It really is.”  I agreed.

Ryder got up and took my hand in his. He kissed my palm then turned my hand over and kissed my knuckle and the ring. I stared into his eyes and saw so much that words couldn’t express.

“I’m a lucky girl,” I whispered to him as I kissed his jaw.

“No baby, I’m the lucky one. You’re finally mine. The wait was definitely worth it.”

Beautiful words, I would remember them forever.

“Time to celebrate,” Jen said excitedly.

“Yes, lets.” We all grabbed a glass of wine from the side and I handed Katie her glass of squash.

“To happiness,” I said raising my glass.

“And happily ever after,” Jen added. Her eyes met mine, and we shared a smile.

Lexi

I woke up to Ryder whispering my name. I smiled until I heard the urgency in his voice. Sitting up abruptly I turned to face him. One look at his expression and I wanted to cry.

“What’s happened?” I asked in dread.

“Julian got himself stabbed. Baby, he’s ok, the knife missed his vital organs. He’s in the hospital being cared for.”

“This is my fault.” I groaned as I jumped out of bed. I started to search for my clothes.

“Lexi, it isn’t your fault at all. Why would you think that?” He tried to pull me into his arms, but I backed away.

“I put him in the predicament of having to risk himself to save me.”

“No, he did that.”

“If Jacobson hadn’t seen me, he wouldn’t have found out about Julian’s debt and brought it.”

“Your logic is flawed baby. I take it from your rushing around you want to go and see Julian?”

“Yes.”

“I warn you, David said he is being a smug bastard.”

“What, why?”

“Julian got Jacobson to go to the location alone just like we planned. When he got there, he realised he’d been played and went to attack the woman pretending to be you.”

I gasped. “Was she hurt?”

Ryder shook his head with a grin. “She knows how to defend herself, but she didn’t have to. Julian was waiting in the shadows and he attacked Jacobson before he could take a step towards her.”

“He’s become quite the G.I. Joe hasn’t he?”

“He’s a man who was running on adrenaline and anger who got lucky. He thought he’d subdued Jacobson and was sat waiting for David to storm the place when Jacobson suddenly launched at him with a knife.”

“Why hadn’t Julian checked him for weapons? Even I would have thought to do that.”

“He got cocky. Luckily, he saw the glint of the knife and deflected it from his heart.”

“Oh god, he could have died.”

“He could have. He knows he was lucky.”

“I get that he feels lucky, but why is he acting smug?”

“They arrested Jacobson last night. With what Julian got him to confess while wearing a wire and the attempted murder charge he won’t be out for a long time. David has an informant who will talk now Jacobson is in prison.”

I sat down in relief. “It’s over now?”

“Oh yes, baby it’s all over. You know what this means don’t you?”

“What?”

“It means we can plan our wedding.”

I smiled. “I’ve already started. I need to see Julian so I can see he’s Ok for myself. Has someone notified Tammy?”

“According to David she’s at the hospital with him and in David’s words, she is reaming him a new asshole.”

“Nothing less than he deserves. At least she’s there. It would be nice for them to work things out. Does he still owe money to Jacobson?”

“Jacobson sent confirmation that the debt has been written off.”

“That’s a relief. No one else will come knocking for it.”

“No one at all, baby. It really is over.” He pulled me to my feet, and I went into his arms with a sigh.  “I’ll take you to see Julian once you’re dressed.”

“Thank you, Ryder. I just really need to see him for myself.”

“I understand.”

“You’re amazing.”

“I know.” He chuckled.

I punched him lightly in the stomach. “I mean it. All through this crap you’ve been there, you’ve looked after me and Katie and kept us safe. Not many people would do that. You’ve kept me sane.”

“It’s my job. If anything happened to you, my life would be over too. There is no one in the world for me, but you.”

“You say the sweetest things.” I sniffed.

“I speak the truth. I will never lie to you.”

“I would never lie to you either. Well, sometimes I might lie about where I’ve stashed the muffins just so someone else can have one. Especially, Eric, you should share with him.”

“I suppose I’d better get used to sharing with him. I don’t think he’s going back home.”

“He’s sticking around?”

“He’s put his house on the market.”

“Does Jen know?”

“I’m not sure. He’s really trying to get her to trust him again.”

“It could take a while but selling his house is a huge deal. That should help his case.”

“Yes, it should. It’s their business though.”

“Yeah, yeah, we’ve already been over that.”

“I’m just checking we still agree.”

“We still agree.” I pulled away. “Let’s get dressed. I’m not sure it’s a good idea to see Tammy after the last time I saw her, but I want to see Julian.”

“She won’t say anything to you.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“Julian levelled with her and told her what has been going on and that you haven’t been taking money from him. She feels bad about how she treated you.”

“I should thank her for taking him away from me.”

“I don’t think we’ll go that far. She caused you a lot of pain.”

“She did, but you were totally worth it.”

Ryder kissed my head; linking our hands together briefly he tugged me closer. “You’re so goofy, baby. I love you.”

“I love you too. Now, let me go, I need to brush my teeth and you need to put on some clothes because you’re half-naked body is too much of a distraction.”

“I can say the same about yours.”

“I’ll get dressed too. I’m not going to tell Katie anything at all about her father being hurt.”

“That’s a good idea, she is already so worried.”

“I can’t believe it’s all over.”

“I can. I told you once before that bad shit happens to good people; it’s how they pull themselves out of it that matters. You did it with grace when I wanted to do it with blood.”

I rolled my eyes. “I remember you also said I was a good person who was too soft.”

“And that is still true except now you have me to make sure no one takes advantage of your trusting nature.

“My big, strong, sweet man,” I grinned.

****

“Are you ready?” Ryder asked me as we walked to the door of the private room Julian was in.

“Yes, I’m ready.” I knocked briskly, and the door was opened by a smiling Tammy. I blinked in amazement. I hadn’t been sure her lips could actually smile.

“Hi, Lexi, Ryder, please come in.”

I locked eyes with Ryder and saw his amusement.

“Hi,” I said.

“Julian just woke up, but he really wants to see you.”

“Ok,” I said.

She moved aside to let us enter. I was still frowning when my eyes met Julian’s. He was lying on the white sheets. He looked tired but his eyes were blazing. I’d never seen him look so alive.

“Lexi, Ryder, did David tell you what happened?”

“Yes,” I said quietly seeing what David had said about Julian being smug was true.

“I was amazing. I saved that woman’s life.”

“She didn’t need saving according to her,” Ryder said.

“She did, but even if she could have taken Jacobson out, I wanted to be the one to do it. That bastard deserved it.” He sat up wincing at the movement and Tammy rushed over to him.

“Be careful Julian, you’ll pull your stitches.” She warned as she puffed his pillows for him and helped him lay back against them. It felt like I was in some kind of alternate world. I have never once seen her be anything other than a bitch so it was a huge shock to the system to see this nice side of her.

Julian coughed, and I gave him my attention. “I told Tammy that everything I’d ever said about you was a lie.”

“Over the years he’s told me lots of things, and nothing was good.”

“I figured that out myself.”

“I’m sorry Lexi. I don’t really know why I said the things I did except I was worried that if Tammy realised you were the good person you are she wouldn’t have had an affair with me.”

Lovely, “What did you tell her?” I asked curiously.

Julian didn’t answer, and I looked to Tammy instead. She sighed. “He told me you were obsessed with sex and when he wasn’t in the mood, you would use Katie as a bargaining chip.”

“What the fuck!” I snapped in shock.

“Shit Lexi. I’m sorry.” Julian said quietly.

“Julian you are one lying piece of shit. You made her say fuck.” Ryder exclaimed.  “She never says that word.”

“It gets worse; you may as well hear it all.” I glared at Julian and then turned to his wife. She had more nuts that he did.

“He told me after he’d left you that you’d ring him up every day begging him to come home and when he refused you started taking strange men home with you.”

“That explains your words in the supermarket.”

Tammy bit her lip. “I’m sorry I really am, but after Julian had told me his lies about you with men and then about you bleeding him dry, I was really angry. I hated you.”

“I understand that and I would feel the same. I’m glad you never took any of your ill feelings towards me out on Katie.”

“That kid is amazing. She’s so bright and clever.” Tammy grinned suddenly. “She clearly gets that from you because her father is an idiot.”

Julian chuckled. “I can’t deny it, Lexi is pretty amazing. I know that Ryder wants to rip my head off right now but Lexi being who she is has asked him not to.”

Ryder nodded his anger clear. He knew I was hurt by Julian’s actions and he wanted to make Julian hurt for it, but he knew I didn’t want that. At least Julian had owned up to everything now.

“I haven’t told Katie anything. When you’re well enough you and Tammy are welcome to visit her.”

“Thank you. I really appreciate you letting me into your home after everything that’s happened.” Tammy whispered, and I saw the glint of tears in her eyes. “I love Katie like she’s my own daughter. I don’t know if you’re aware but I can’t have children.”

My heart broke for her. “I’m sorry.”

She shrugged. “I’ve come to terms with it, but having Katie in my life is a blessing.”

“She is that.” I looked at Julian. “We can talk about Katie staying at yours when you’re back on your feet. Forgive me, but right now I still don’t trust you completely.”

He looked sad. Tammy clutched his hand. “I understand. I really fucked up, but my debts are clear now and Tammy knows everything. From now on I’ll keep to the straight and narrow.”

“I hope you will. Do you need to borrow money?”

Julian shook his head. Tammy gasped. “You would lend us money after what he did?”

“Of course, I really am a soft touch aren’t I?”

“No, you just have a very big heart.”

“We don’t need to borrow money, the only debt I owed was to Jacobson, and that doesn’t exist anymore,” Julian said somewhat stiltedly, and I hid my grin. I’d hit a nerve. Good, the dick deserved it.

“Lexi, you’ve seen him, he’s clearly still an asshole lets go now,” Ryder said as he gripped my hand in his.

I nodded.

“Phone when you’re feeling better and I will tell Katie to expect you.”

“I’ll do that, thank you.”

“Good. Feel better soon you lying shit head.” Julian looked shocked, and I grinned.

“Tammy, it was nice to meet the real you,” I said still grinning.

She laughed delightedly. “It was nice to meet the real you, too.” 

“Now there are no lies between us, maybe we can become friends for Katie’s sake.”

“I’d like that.”

“I would too. Bye, bye.” I called as Ryder practically dragged me out of the door. He didn’t say a word as we made our way downstairs and out the main doors to the car. He opened my door and waited for me to climb in before he closed the door softly. Oh dear, he was furious, and I wasn’t sure why. There were a lot of reasons he could be angry. He didn’t look at me as he got in and buckled his belt. I buckled mine puzzled by his behaviour as he started the car and drove out of the space and on to the main road. He still hadn’t said a word, hadn’t looked at me and his knuckles were white from gripping the steering wheel so tightly.

“Ryder.”

He didn’t answer.

“Ryder,” I tried again.

Not even a blink. “Ok, stop this car. I’d rather walk than deal with you right now.”

He glanced at me, glanced in his mirrors then he turned into a dirt road and shut off the engine. He unbuckled his seatbelt, and the turned to face me. I unbuckled mine and twisted so my back was against the door.

“What is wrong with you?”

“I’m so fucking angry at Julian. He sat there hiding behind his wife letting her tell you all the sordid lies he’d told.”

I sighed. “You wouldn’t understand why he did that. In your world you protect me, but Julian is weak. He hides behind Tammy for the same reason I hide behind you.”

“And what’s that reason?”

“You are strong. Tammy is just as strong-minded. She takes no shit. Julian needs that, it’s one of the reasons we didn’t work out. I want and need someone to take care of me, someone who I can rely on. He wants someone who will make all the decisions and be in control.”

“You mean like a dominant?”

“More like an Alpha. In our relationship, you’re definitely the Alpha and I love that. Julian is an Omega. He’s weak he needs direction and someone to stand up for him.”

“Doesn’t the Omega get knocked around in the wolf packs?”

I shrugged. “Sometimes, but they usually leave and go it alone. Don’t get any ideas; Tammy will kill you if you lay a hand on him.”

“Do you know, I think she might.”

“Do you feel better now?”

“I’m pissed off Lexi. I can’t believe you offered him a loan after the shit storm he brought down on us.”

“I didn’t do it for him I did it for Tammy and more importantly for Katie. If he loses his house, it will affect her.”

“You’re too soft but I understand your reasoning.”

“Maybe I am too soft sometimes, but I’m not stupid, I always have a good reason for doing things.”

“I know.”

I reached over and cupped his jaw in my hand.

He stared at me then smiled. “I love you.”

He closed his eyes, and I moved closer leaning my head against his. “I love you too. Can we stop for coffee on the way home please?”

“Of course, anything for you,”

“I hoped you say that.”

He lifted his head and eyed me warily. “Why?”

“I’d like to get married at the Manor Hall.”

“Ok, I’d marry you anywhere, you know that.”

“The thing is, there are no openings until March next year.”

He opened his mouth only to close it abruptly.

“I know you wanted to get married as soon as possible but the Hall would be like a dream.”

I could see a tick in the side of his jaw. I knew he wanted to argue but surprisingly his cheek relaxed and when he looked at me his eyes softened. “If it’s what you want, then we can wait until next year.”

“Really, I mean you’re sure you don’t mind waiting that long?”

“If it makes you happy, then I’m happy.”

I giggled. “Oh Ryder, I know you hate the idea but thank you so much.”

“Baby it will be hard waiting that long, I’d marry you tomorrow if I could but I’ll do it for you.”

“You are the best,” I said excitedly.

“Just you remember that.” He grinned before moving away. I sat back in my seat properly, buckling my belt up. He did the same and then we were on our way again. I couldn’t believe he’d agreed to the long wait, I thought he’d argue with me over it, but he seemed fine.

“Have you booked the date?”

“Provisionally, yes, I wasn’t sure if you would agree.”

“Good, who deals with all the arrangements?”

“Her name is Winnie. Why do you want to know?” I asked suspiciously.

“I just want to know who is in charge of our wedding that’s all.”

“Ok.” I’m ashamed to say that for a split second I was worried that he was going to ring Winnie up and cancel our reservation, but he would never do something like that.

“When we were in the hospital Eric texted, they’ve moved you and Katie back home.”

“Great, I hate packing.” I grinned. “Talking of packing, when are you moving in?”

“Today.”

“Today?” I almost screeched in surprise. I wasn’t even sure why I was surprised we were getting married after all.

Ryder just laughed. “Eric wants to buy my house.”

“That means Jen will be just next door.”

“If, she moves in.”

“Of course she will move in with him. They love each other; eventually, he will earn her trust back.”

“I hope you’re right Lexi, but trust once gone is hard to find.”

I shook my head. “Julian earned mine back. I know I said I didn’t trust him earlier, but I was angry at him and lashing out. I trust he won’t put Katie in danger, again.”

“And I guess I agree but it’s different for Jen. We’ll see I suppose.”

“Yes, we will have ringside seats if he’s living so close. I can’t wait.”

Ryder took us through a coffee drive through before heading home just like I’d asked. We pulled on to my drive and I saw Katie’s head pop up in the window. She was grinning. I rushed out of the car towards the front door and met her as she opened it. Diving into my outstretched arms she giggled. “I missed you, Mummy. Aunty Jen said you and Ryder had things to sort out for the wedding that’s why you went out so early.”

Thank you, Jen. “Yes, baby, but we’ve finished now.”

I looked for Ryder and saw him at the car. He had his phone to his ear. He motioned for me to go inside so I waved back and led Katie through the door.

Eric came in from the kitchen to greet me. “I saw you pull up, figured you’d like a minute with her.”

“Thanks. Where’s Jen?”

“Right here,” She called as she walked in from the kitchen. I burst out laughing at the sight of her.

She blushed. “What’s so funny?”

“Nothing,” I breathed out trying to calm myself.

“I found your recipe; I thought I’d try to bake those damn muffins everyone loves.”

She had flour all over her clothes, her hands and streaks on her face. She looked ridiculous but so cute.

“How are they?”

“They are still baking.”

“Why don’t I help you wash up?”

She shrugged. “If you want to, but I don’t think I’ve made much mess.”

“You clearly haven’t looked in a mirror babe.” I laughed.

Eric chuckled, and I stopped following Jen to look back at him. “You should look in a mirror too Eric, I see flour in your hair and the back of your neck.”

He grinned and lifted a hand to wipe the white powder. “It was worth it.”

“I’m glad to hear it.”

“I’m going to marry her.”

“I should hope so. I don’t want to see her hurt again.” I warned. “I know where Ryder keeps his gun.”

“Ryder doesn’t own a gun.”

“Doesn’t he?”

He grimaced. “I would never hurt her. I regret more than anything what happened before and I’m going to make it up to her.”

“A ring on her finger is a good place to start,” I added as I walked away. I hoped I hadn’t messed up by sticking my nose in but she’s my best friend.

“What was that about?” She asked as I stopped next to her.

“Nothing, just chitchat,”

She lifted an eyebrow. “Why don’t I believe you?”

“Because you have a suspicious nature?”

A timer went off, and she jumped. “They’re ready. Please let them taste as good as yours.”

I crossed my fingers as she opened the oven and used the gloves to take them out. They looked good. She placed them on the cooling rack and I flipped the switch on the coffee machine after checking it was already set. Just as I pulled the milk out of the fridge Ryder appeared grinning proudly.

“What’s made you grin like a loon?” I asked, smiling at his excitement.

“I rang Manor Hall and managed to get a date this year.”

“You did? That’s amazing! When?”

“Next Saturday.” He said a touch nervously.

I dropped the milk and watched as it spilt into a huge white puddle.

“Lexi, say something,” He begged.

I opened my mouth, but no words came out. He moved closer to me trying to step over the milk without much success. He gripped my chin and tilted it up so I was looking at him.

“I have ten days to plan a wedding,” I whispered.

“We’ll have help.”

“Ok.”

“Eric, Jen, me, your parents, David and Chloe will pitch in too. I wanted to give you the dream wedding, but I also didn’t want to wait nearly a year to do it. This is a compromise.”

I nodded still dazed at the short time we had to pull it off. Ten days to plan a wedding that should take at least a year? I wasn’t sure it could be done, but I’d give it a try. I didn’t exactly have a choice.

Lexi

“We actually pulled it off,” I whispered. I was stood in the ceremony room at the Manor Hall. It was decorated with colourful flowers, and chairs with pink taffeta bows lined the room. It looked beautiful.

“I can’t believe you had doubts.” Jen tutted, “especially with all the help we had.”

“I know and I’m really grateful. I’m just in shock.”

My mum came behind me and gripped my shoulders softly. “Honey, we need to get you hidden. Ryder will be making his way down here soon and its bad luck if he sees you.”

“And I don’t need any more of that.” I grimaced.

“Oh, I don’t know. Bad luck brought you together.”

“Well, I don’t want to test it. Let’s move. Jen, check he isn’t in the hallway, please.”

She poked her head out the door and looked both ways. “He’s not here, its all clear.”

I headed towards the door slowly; my mum had hold of my train. I had clips attached to my dress to pin it back later ready for the dancing so I didn’t trip over like a klutz. I loved my dress; it was white and beaded and made me feel like a princess. I had on blue high-heeled sandals and a pink garter. Jen had talked me into trying on a veil and I’d loved it so I’d chosen one that brushed my shoulders.

“Come on quickly,” Jen called. “I can hear voices.”

I tried to hurry, but I was worried about tripping.

“Stop!” Jen shouted, and I did immediately. “Not you Lexi, I meant Ryder. Eric, cover his eyes with your hand and turn him away from the stairs. He can’t see her.”

Eric laughed loudly, and I smiled despite the bad luck looming. Jen and Eric had been getting on brilliantly the last week and I was so pleased. I walked out the door and saw Ryder standing with his back to me just as Jen had ordered. I took a moment to admire his body, his bum looked amazing in his black trousers then I concentrated on walking up the stairs safely. As I reached the last step Jen called for the men to move. I laughed at her. “You’re so bossy, Jen. God help Eric when he marries you.”

“Who says I’m going to marry him?”

“It’s written in the stars.”

“I hope so.”

“You’re both lucky girls to have found such sexy men.” My mum said, and we turned to her in shock. She never said things like that. My mum got embarrassed when she tried to talk about animals mating. “What, I’m only speaking the truth now close your mouths you’re catching flies.”

“There you are.” My dad called as we made it to the hotel room door.

“Sorry, Dad I just wanted to see the room before it was full of people. It’s gorgeous.”

“Just like you are, Lexi, come here.” He motioned for a hug and I stepped into his arms careful not to crush the fabric of my dress.

“You aren’t allowed to say anything sweet to me until after I’m married. I don’t want to marry Ryder looking like a racoon.”

“You’re so special to me. I’m proud of you.”

“Thanks, Dad,” I sniffed. “I just have to check my appearance then I have to meet Julian and Katie in the lobby.”

“I still can’t believe you let him have Katie overnight after what he did.” My mum snapped.

“It’s my business, Mum. He’s Katie’s father, and he has rights. I trust he will have her here on time.”

“He will have got her dressed I suppose?”

“I hope so because otherwise, we’ll be late to the wedding.”

Jen opened our door, and I walked towards the mirror. I looked at my reflection and was pleased to see my hair was still perfect. My eyes were shining with excitement. I felt nervous, but not because I was marrying Ryder, I was worried about tripping in front of all our guests. My dad would probably keep me upright, but what if I took him with me? I’d be mortified.

“Lexi, unclench your fists, you’re going to make your palms bleed,” Jen ordered.

I nodded and did as she said.

“Good girl. It’s time to get married.”

“I hope Julian isn’t late,” I whispered allowing worry to slip into my mind for the first time.

“He won’t be late; he knows Ryder would kill him.”

“Ryder would need to get in line.” My dad piped up from behind me.

“Dad, you shouldn’t threaten violence. You remember what the doctor said.”

“It isn’t a threat it’s a promise. That man has done nothing but hurt you. I should never have let you marry him.”

Let me? I shook my head. “He gave me Katie.”

His eyes softened. “She is the one good thing he’s ever done in his life.”

I opened the door and Jen held it open for me. I walked steadily; my dad took my arm, and we walked down the hallway and towards the stairs. Next time I climbed them I would be Mrs Ryder Allen.

“Slow and steady now, Lexi.”

I rolled my eyes. “You don’t need to tell me, Jen.”

“It was just a reminder. I don’t want you to get too excited and slip. I see Katie; I’ve never seen her look so cute.”

She wore a purple bridesmaid dress which matched Jen’s completely. It had been so hard to find matching dresses in such a short space of time, but we’d done it and I was so glad.

“Mummy,” Katie shouted as she caught sight of me. “You look like a princess.”

“So do you, you little beauty.” She spun in a circle. “Look at my hair, Tammy put flowers in it.”

“It looks amazing baby.”

“I hope you don’t mind that I did that,” Tammy said from beside Julian.

“Of course I don’t. Thank you for bringing her here on time.”

“Not a problem. You look stunning.” Julian said.

I smiled and before I could say anything Jen clapped her hands. “Enough, its time,” She pointed at Julian and Tammy. “You two, go and sit down now.” Julian saluted her and they left.

My mum and dad had stayed back, and I was glad. I didn’t want unhappiness on my wedding day.  They walked over now, my mum kissed my cheek. “I’ll see you in there.”

“You will.” I grinned.

My dad put his arm out for me and I placed my hand on it. Jen took Katie’s hand and after I kissed both their cheeks they walked towards the door. I could hear the wedding march start and I felt giddy. Today was the beginning of the rest of my life. I watched Jen and Katie disappear inside the room and I gripped my dad’s arm tightly. He squeezed my fingers. “Ready?” he asked.

“I am more than ready.”

“Then let’s go, pretty girl.”

I smiled as we both started walking. He led me to the door, and I took a deep breath letting it out slowly. Everyone was on their feet. I couldn’t make out their faces. The only person I had eyes for was Ryder. He looked glorious in his black tuxedo; his eyes were what caught my attention. They were blazing with happiness. He kept his gaze on mine and I couldn’t tear my eyes away. Thank god my dad could walk us in a straight line. When I finally stood in front of Ryder, close enough to touch him, I took another breath. My dad let go of me and stood to the side.

“You didn’t trip.” Ryder teased.

I blushed when our guests laughed. The registrar stood in front of us smiling. She told everyone they could take their seats, and I raised my eyes to Ryder. My husband-to-be, my best friend and the man I would be spending the rest of my life with.

“I love you.” I mouthed.

“I love you too.” He returned with a wink.

What was the saying? When life gives you lemons, make lemonade? Well, life gave me a crappy husband, but we made a beautiful daughter and now I’d found Ryder, or actually, he’d found me. He was a man who would always put me and Katie first, I was so happy with him and he made sure my insecurities disappeared. He was definitely my prize.

I only hoped I could make him as happy as he made me.

THE END

 

 

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His Love Series:

Blackmailing his Love

Claiming his Love

 

Standalone:

Her Vampire Love

Unlikely Love

Her Mistake