We walked into the opulent ballroom, it was absolutely breath-taking. I started doubting that I belonged here. Triston’s hand fell on my lower back and his confidence poured into me. Like a waterfall rushing into a silent river. He pulled me into his world like I was always meant to be there. An elegant sophisticated woman, when deep down I felt like a girl out of my depth. My eyes darted around, taking in everything. You know when you have an out of body experience? No? Well, I was having one. I was sitting on my sofa in my sweats watching Cinderella at the ball with Prince Charming. The only part that worried me was what happens when midnight strikes. We stopped at the entrance to have our photo taken with our masks on. The rules were to leave the masks on all night.
A waiter offered us glasses of champagne with floating strawberries. Triston took one for himself and handed me a glass. “I want to toast to us, Miss Reid.” His steel-blue eyes striking in the black mask that covered half his handsome face.
“To us, Mr Hart,” I clinked my glass to his. Those blue eyes burned into mine and I felt myself flush, his stare was intense. I wonder if he will ever stop having that effect on me? We made our way through the crowd, his hand never leaving me. Normally being in a room full of strangers would weigh on me, but next to him I felt at ease. Triston took my hand and laced his fingers through mine. We walked over to the chart with seating arrangements and found our names. We would be seated with Mr Jacobson and his wife and a few other people we haven’t met before.
We took our seats and saw Mr Jacobson walking up to the stage, “Good evening fine people! Please take your seats, if you’re not sure of the seating arrangement we have ushers to assist.” Everyone made their way to different tables and a hush fell over the large room. Once everyone was seated Mr Jacobson started his speech. Triston took my hand as we listened. I sipped my champagne and felt happiness bubbling inside. Maybe it was just the champagne, I smiled to myself. My mind had been working overtime with thoughts of what was going to happen when we went back home. I looked at his beautiful steel-blue gaze and his smile was genuine. Easing my worries, for the time being.
—∆—
The music started after the delectable dinner and people were dancing, laughing and drinking. It was beautiful seeing the black and white dresses and suits flowing across the dance floor. “Miss Reid, would you care to dance with me?” Triston turned to me, holding out his hand. I slipped mine in his and we walked to the dance floor.
He pulled me into him. The song changed and a slow song started. David Gray’s voice filled the large ballroom and my heart raced. This song always brought me to tears. His lyrics haunting, tugging at my heart as I swayed with Triston. Something in his eyes changed as he looked at me. I couldn’t quite pinpoint what it was. The lyrics of This Year’s Love echoed from the speakers. I looked into his eyes knowing that I was in love but was he?
This year’s love had better last
Heaven knows it's high time
And I've been waiting on my own too long
But when you hold me like you do
It feels so right
I start to forget
How my heart gets torn?
When that hurt gets thrown
Feeling like you can't go on
Feeling his rigid body against mine I ached for him again, he radiated his magnetic heat. His hand on my back, tracing a line, up and down my spine as we spun around. “You look breath-taking tonight Miss Reid,” he whispered in my ear. His lips brushing my neck and I shivered. He pulled away and his eyes met mine, his stare searing through me as it so often did.
“And you look magnificent as always Mr Hart.” I smiled up at him. Following Triston’s lead, we danced across the floor. As the song ended we made our way to Mr Jacobson to thank him for the evening. “Triston, I am going to the restroom, meet you back here?” He smiled and nodded, giving me a kiss on the cheek.
“Yes, angel, I will wait here so you can find me again,” he winked and I giggled. How could I not find him? He was the only person here with those striking steel-blue eyes!
I walked out of the ballroom and into the hallway, I followed the signs to the restroom. There were people milling around and I saw a few women walking the direction I was headed. A sudden voice ripped into me and made me want to retch. “There she is!” I spun around at the familiar gruff voice, my heart plummeted and the bile rose into my throat. I was met with the familiar startling green eyes. My past hit me all at once and sudden breathlessness knocked me hard. “Did you think you could run off with your blue-eyed millionaire and I wouldn’t find you?” He sneered at me and I knew I needed to get away. Anger flashed in his eyes and I realized he was out for revenge. I took a deep breath, I needed to try and calm him down, somehow. Thoughts whirled through my mind, I wasn’t sure how I was going to do this. Even though I was so used to his temper I still found myself defenseless.
“Blake, I… What are you doing here?” I asked softly. He gave a deep gravelly laugh. “I wanted to come to LA to see prospective clients. When I saw your name on the guest list, I thought you would welcome me with open arms. Didn't you miss me?” He walked towards me and my heart started racing. I couldn’t run, he would catch me. I didn’t want to cause a scene. I knew that if I didn’t get back to Triston he will come looking for me but I didn’t want him to see Blake. I couldn’t let him see my past so soon.
“Oh, well I better get back,” I turned to go back inside the ballroom when he grabbed my arm. “Blake, please let me go? I need to get back.” I whispered, hoping not to anger him.
“Not even a hug for your husband?” He pulled me into him.
“Ex-husband Blake…” I could smell the whiskey on his breath. He pulled me into him, giving me a tight hug. When he released me I saw the evil glinting in his eyes.
“That's a technicality, I am sure you missed me.” He stepped back, “I will see you soon missy… Don’t forget that!” He turned and stalked off down the hallway. I stood shocked, unsure of what to do. I knew I needed to speak to Triston about him, but how on earth do I even begin? I walked back into the ballroom and found Triston in the same spot I had left him.
He turned to look at me, his eyes flickered with concern, “What’s wrong angel?” He took my hand, his eyes searching mine for an answer.
I shook my head slowly, “I am not feeling too good, I think it’s a migraine.” I gave a small smile hoping he would decide to leave now. I couldn’t risk having him bump into Blake. I was not giving up my future for my past.
“We are leaving; I don’t want you at a loud party if you’re not feeling well.” Triston held my hand and we walked through the crowds to find Mr Jacobson. I felt terrible for lying to Triston, but I didn’t know how else to stop him from running into Blake. I didn’t want him finding out about my past in public, he was going to blow a gasket.
—∆—
We sat quietly in the car on the way back to the hotel. I needed to talk to him, I just didn’t know how to bring it up. He lifted my hand to his lips and kissed my knuckles. “I am going to make you some tea and you need to rest. Tomorrow is our last day here and I want to take you somewhere special. Since we aren’t working, I want you to have a relaxing day.” I smiled and nodded, resting my head on his shoulder. His energy radiated through me and I felt calmer.
The driver pulled up outside the hotel. Triston got out and came around to open my door. Holding my hand as I stepped out he laced his fingers through mine and we walked through the reception area. The elevator ride up was excruciating. My mind whirling with thoughts on how I can even begin telling Triston about Blake.
On our floor, Triston unlocked the room door and I went straight to the bedroom. I slipped off my shoes and I felt him behind me. “Let me help you, angel,” he slid my dress over my shoulders and I shivered at his hot touch. “Thank you,” I mumbled. I left Triston in the bedroom as I walked into the bathroom to get ready for bed. When I came back out Triston had found some painkillers and a bottle of Evian. “Drink those and get into bed.” It was a direct order, but his voice was soft and loving. I smiled, the way he cared for me made my heart fill with love.
I slid into bed, “Sit with me?” I pleaded with him, not wanting to be alone after seeing Blake again.
“Of course I will. Let me brush my teeth and then we can get some rest.” A few minutes later he slid into bed next to me wearing only his tight briefs. His strong arm over me. His rhythmic heartbeat lulling me into a calm that I needed. I took a deep steadying breath, this was it. This was the moment I may lose the man I love.
“Triston?” My voice was low. My heart was racing. Fear tugged at me. I felt like I was about to puke. Closing my eyes, I saw those vile green eyes. The menacing look on his face chilled me to the bone, I couldn’t let him come near Triston. I needed to save Triston from the man who almost killed me.
“Mmmm, what’s up angel?” His voice soft in my ear.
I leaned up on my elbow, “I… um… Can we talk?” His frown was adorable, I watched his brow crease and I knew it was now or never, I needed to tell him. This was the defining moment. I didn’t want to lose him, but after I told him about Blake he might never want to look at me again and I didn’t blame him.
“Of course, you can tell me anything, you know that.” I smiled, nodding slowly.
“Earlier, at the ball, when I went to the restroom,” my gaze fell to the sheet, twisting it around my fingers. I felt my heart hammering its way out of my chest.
“Emily, you’re scaring me, what’s wrong? What happened?” There was concern in his voice and I could see it etched on his handsome features. He was so beautiful, sometimes it hurt to look at him. He sat up now trying to look into my eyes.
I took a deep steadying breath. “I saw my ex-husband,” the words fell out of my mouth and I couldn’t look up. I didn’t want to see his expression. I heard his sharp intake of breath. I closed my eyes waiting for the worst.
“Ex-husband? Okay, so?” I looked up at him, his eyes searching my face. Here goes nothing.
“He is the reason I ran away from home Triston, he…” I couldn’t get the words out. My throat tightened and I was sure I was going to pass out. Tears burned my eyes and I tried blinking them away. Instead, they slowly rolled down my cheeks. He sat up straighter, knowing something was amiss he pulled me into him. “I am here angel, please tell me? I am not leaving you, no matter what you tell me.”
“I was with him for 5 years, married for 2, he was…uhm, possessive. He,” I hadn’t spoken to anyone about this. Now I wasn’t sure telling my boyfriend was the best idea. I didn’t even know what Triston was to me besides my boss. His arm tightened around me, with my head against his chest. I closed my eyes and the words came out easier. “He was abusive for most of our relationship. Triston, I left because he put me in the hospital. I had been knocked unconscious. I had a few broken ribs, a broken arm and a few cuts and bruises. They said I was in a coma for two weeks.” I felt his body go rigid beneath me. He was so tense, but his arm never let me go. The temperature in the room dropped and I felt ice-cold.
“What?” His voice hissed through his teeth. I was trembling now, he was angry, understandably so. The tears flowed down my cheeks and I knew Triston could feel them on his chest. My body shook with emotion as my sobs came faster. I didn’t want to lose Triston; I couldn’t survive that.
“I am sorry Triston,” I mumbled. He pulled me up and turned me to face him, grabbing my face in his hands. His eyes blazing with fierce emotion, I could see the anger but also something else. Something I couldn't read through my tears.
“Sorry? You’re sorry? For what angel? This fucking dick better not come near you or I will see to it he never walks again!” I shivered at his venomous words, but my heart stopped racing. His anger wasn't directed at me, I relaxed, taking a deep breath. He wasn’t leaving me?
“I just thought…” I trailed off. I wasn’t sure what I thought. Well, that’s not true. I thought he would walk out the door and leave me and my baggage.
“How can I ever be angry with you? How could someone call himself a man doing that to someone he loves?!” Triston’s body was radiating and trembling with intense anger. It scared me to the core. “Oh my god!” He released my face and pinched the bridge of his nose. It looked like he was now directing the anger at himself. I was confused. “What Triston?” A frown creasing my forehead, lifting his eyes looking directly at me.
“We… You let me…” He wiped my tears with his thumbs, I still didn’t know what he was talking about. “You let me do those things to you! Oh god, Emily, I am so sorry!!” I smiled at him, hoping to calm him down. He was angry at himself for what we had done.
I ran my fingers over his chest, those perfectly sculpted lines forming his pecs. “Triston, I wanted that. I wanted you! That stuff we did, I wanted that.” A deep growl resonated in his chest when my fingers reached his abs. I ran my finger over the lines of his beautiful torso.
“Emily, be careful,” motioning to my hand. His warning was husky, dripping with anger and lust. It was a heady combination, making the fire within me flare with intensity. I wanted him now. I wanted him to take me and fix me. I wanted him to put every shattered piece of me back together and I knew only he could do it.
“Oh Mr Hart, I am very careful,” I whispered, leaning down and kissing the soft smooth skin of his torso. I felt his hand grip my hair, pulling back slightly so I could face him. “I want you Triston, let me?” I begged him. Did he not see how much I wanted him?
“Miss Reid, you are completely distracting! I am coming to terms with everything and now I can’t think about anything else. Now all I want is to be inside you.” He released his hold on me and I smiled at him. His eyes took on that darkness I have become so familiar with.
I laid soft kisses on his chest, moving my way down his beautiful body. I looked up and saw his eyes close and his head lean back on the pillow. I kneeled next to him, licking the sculpted lines of his torso. Finding the beautiful v lines pointing somewhere below the sheet. Tracing both lines with my tongue, from his taut hips down to the sheet.
A low moan escaped his lips and I saw his hands grip the sheet as I pulled down the one covering him, to find he was rock hard. I moved down the bed as my tongue licked the length of his erection. Taking him in my mouth, slowly sucking him deeper till I felt him at the entrance to my throat. “Fuck,” his growl was deep and scratchy. I continued my assault on him, sucking and licking every inch of him. His knuckles were white as his grip on the sheet tightened, his veins pulsed in his hands. Every part of him was perfect. He tasted like honey and strawberries.
I watched his face, the expression of pure ecstasy and lust evident on his handsome features. Suddenly his eyes opened, “Miss Reid stop! I need to be inside you!” Pulling my mouth off him I gave a final flick of my tongue. The salty sweetness of him on my tongue, slowly licking my lips as he watched me. A devilish smirk etched on his face.
“Come here!” He pulled me astride him. I could feel him at the entrance to my body. He teased the tip over my slick entrance. “Mmmm Miss Reid, you are delectable. So ready and so wet for me.” He gripped my hips and pulled me onto him. I cried out at the fullness of him. He hit my sweet spot and my body shuddered. He plunged into me, deep. I rolled my hips back and forth, building a steady rhythm. His hands traveled up my body and tweaked my nipples sending waves of pleasure to my core. “Open your eyes, look at me.” He rasped.
Our eyes locked making the moment so much more intense than ever before. “Don’t you ever not tell me something!” His voice was so husky. He spoke as I moved on him. “I need you to be honest Emily, that’s the only way this will work. Okay?” I nodded. His soft hands moved up my back, pulling me closer to him. His lips on mine, I felt his tongue push its way into my mouth, sucking on it, teasing him. He moaned into the kiss and I smiled, the power I had over him, making him want me was a heady feeling. He gripped my hips again. I moved faster feeling my release building inside me, taking me higher and higher. I felt him spasm and I knew he was close as well. He tugged off my tee and his mouth devoured my rock hard nipples. Alternating between them, biting and licking, flicking his tongue over them, making me tremble.
I tangled my fingers in his soft long hair. The feel of our bodies moving together, the way we fit together was perfect. “Emily,” he moaned. I sat back feeling him hit new depths inside me. His dark blue eyes staring into my dark brown ones. It was almost as if I could see his broken soul inside, I wanted to pick up every piece and put it back together.
“Triston,” grabbing me pulling me to him, his lips crashed into mine. I could feel his chest against mine as he rocked his hips plunged into me, faster and faster. I was on the precipice, about to fall.
“Angel I am going fill you, come for me, do it!” His words pushing me over the edge I clenched around him, feeling him tense and fill me. “Jesus Emily!” His words getting lost in my neck as I bit his shoulder to keep from screaming out loud. My body shaking as he tightened his hold on me, he bit on my neck in return, as we ascended together.
—∆—
Standing in the hallway my heart thudded in my chest. He was angry again, the bottle of Jack Daniels shattered on the floor. There was glass everywhere. “Come here you fucking bitch!” Tears flowed down my cheeks. I needed to get out of here, but he had the keys. He rounded the corner and stalked towards me. “Please, don’t do this? I am so sorry!” His laugh was maniacal. I shivered, it was so cold. My ripped tank top hanging from my body.
“You fucking do this, you make me angry! It’s all your fault!” He accused. When he reached me his body pressed me against the wall. His big hand on my throat pushing me against the wall. My breath stopping slowly as he squeezed. “You are going to fucking pay for throwing my whiskey in the sink!” Spittle flew from his mouth as he spoke and I could smell the stale beer stench from his mouth. I wanted to throw up. I couldn’t get enough air. “Please, stop,” my voice wheezed. If he could just let go. Stars floated across my vision, I knew I was about to pass out. “Fucking bitch!” Dropping his hand, I fell to my knees. “Get up!” I stood slowly, as I straightened the punch winded me. I gulped in air, his laugh echoing in my ears. “No! Please!! Stop!!” Another punch landed on my cheek.
“Emily! Wake up! Emily!!” I sat up with a start. I turned to face Triston in the dark. He sat up next to me wrapping his arm around my shoulders, “Are you okay angel?” I nodded slowly, trying to shake off the nightmare. Triston got out of bed.
“Where are you going?” I looked at him alarmed.
“Getting you some water angel.” He went into the living room and I heard the bar fridge open and close. He walked back into the bedroom. I couldn’t help but stare at his naked body, it distracted me from the horror of my nightmares. Illuminated by the moonlight shining through the windows, he looked like a statue. A perfect sculpture. He slid onto the bed next to me. Opening the bottle, he handed it to me, “What were you dreaming? You scared the shit out of me.” His soft hand on my back. I felt calmer now, knowing that he was here next to me. I wasn’t sure I could tell him what it was about, it was still so fresh in my mind. I sipped the water slowly, my throat felt dry and it hurt as the cold liquid went down.
“What’s the time?” I looked at him, he reached over and grabbed his phone from the bedside table. He pressed the home screen as I peeked over, it was 4 am. I wasn’t going to get to back to sleep now. “Angel, do you want to lay down again?”
I shook my head, “No, I can’t.” The room was hot, too hot. I put the water down and got out of bed. Slipping on the tee that had I discarded earlier, I walked to our balcony door and opened it. The fresh air hit me and it felt good. I stepped out onto the balcony and looked out at the sparkling lights of the city, it was beautiful. I was so broken; why would Triston want me?
I felt Triston behind me, radiating heat onto my back. He wrapped his arms around me and held me tight. I have never felt safer than when he was holding me. He leaned his chin on my shoulder, “I am here whenever you want to talk okay?” I nodded as tears welled up in my eyes, he was so sweet. I didn’t deserve him. How could such a perfect man want me? The thoughts tumbled in my mind and I couldn’t shake the feeling. He kissed my neck causing me to tremble against him. His hands sliding over my breasts. Tweaking my nipples and they hardened in his expert fingers. “Triston!” I scolded.
“I am sure I can make you feel better if you let me?” This is why I needed him, he fixed me, he made things better. My ugly nightmares pushed to the back of my mind as I felt Triston grow hard behind me. Pushing my ass back onto him, the ache I had for him burned my core. I wanted him now, I wanted him to take me, to possess me.
“I am sure you can Mr Hart, but you need to get some rest, don't you?” I smiled feeling his teeth grazing my neck. His tongue slowly licking its way up to my ear. I moaned as his hands traveled along my body, grabbing my bare ass under the tee. I pushed back into his hands. “Does my girl want to play on the balcony?” He whispered in my ear, sending shivers down my spine.
“Maybe,” I breathed.
I felt his erection pushing between my legs. I pushed back onto him, “Triston, make me yours.” I pleaded with him, aching for him to make me forget. His soft warm hands glided up and down my body. His left hand slipped between my thighs. “My girl, only mine do you understand?” I nodded. “So wet, just for me,” his deep voice husky in my ear as he slid two fingers into me. He slid in and out causing a moan to escape from my lips. My head fell back onto his shoulder. Pulling his fingers from me I watched him lick my arousal from them. “I want to fuck you now Emily,” his eyes filled with desire, tugging at my core. I nodded. He slid his hard cock into me. I held onto the balcony, steadying myself as he plunged into me.
“Triston, yes, please, harder,” I moaned, louder this time. I was so lost in the feeling of him sliding inside me, with a view of LA stretched out in front of us. His hands gripped my hips pulling me back onto him. “Emily, you are mine! I love how you fit around me. So tight and wet, just for my cock.” His words were pushing me closer to the edge. I was close, I needed the release only he could give me. His hand slid down between my legs. His expert fingers touching the sensitive spot between my thighs, eliciting a moan.
“Shhh,” he leaned in and whispered in my ear. I was so lost in the sensations flaring through my body I didn’t care who heard us. I felt the familiar fire intensifying in my stomach. I pushed back onto him. Matching his rhythm aching for the beautiful release that his body gave me every time he was inside me. The release that broke me into a million little pieces then pulled me back together. “Triston,” my ragged whisper edging him on as he slammed into me. His fingers never leaving the wetness between my thighs.
He slammed into me again and again, deeper and harder, “Come for me Emily, give me your pleasure!” His words were my undoing, my body shook and I felt his release as I came undone around him. He pulled me back towards him, his mouth on my neck. “You are truly fucking amazing Emily Reid.”
We stood watching the sunrise on the horizon as we came down from the high of our release. His arms around me and the nightmare completely forgotten. He scooped me up and walked back into the bedroom, laying me down on the bed. I felt tired and sleep took hold of me.
—∆—
I opened my eyes to sunlight streaming through the window. “Good morning sleepy head,” Triston walked into the bedroom with a breakfast tray. “I was about to wake you up. I want to take you out today, it’s our last day in LA.” I scooted up, resting my back against the pillows. He placed the tray on my lap, there were two cups of coffee, two glasses of orange juice, toast, and a few spreads. I grabbed a piece of toast and spread some hummus on it, savoring the taste. I realized I was starving, might be all the exercise lately, I giggled at the thought.
Triston smiled, “I love hearing you giggle.” I drank the orange juice as he watched me.
“Thank you, Mr Hart, I love seeing you smile.” I finished the toast and picked up my coffee. Taking a sip, I watched his steel-blue eyes burn into me. I couldn’t believe that such a beautiful man can be so broken. “What are we doing today?” I smiled, holding onto the warm cup.
“I want to take you somewhere special, I have hired a car for the day.” He stood up and walked over to the window, “Looks like we’re in for a hot day as well, which is perfect for what I have in mind. Come on, get your sexy ass out of bed!” I giggled, finishing my coffee I placed the cup on the tray and grabbed my phone. Turning it on, I saw 5 missed calls all from an unknown number and one message, from Jessie.
*I do hope you and the boss man are having fun! Didn’t I tell you?! xo*
Smiling at the screen I felt myself flush. She was right, how I didn’t notice it before was beyond me. I hit reply.
*You were right, well done. We are having an amazing time! Thanks for the dress by the way!! xo*
“Are you two going to giggle about me all day?” Triston’s amused gaze made me laugh. How on earth he knew what we were saying I would never know.
“Don’t flatter yourself, Mr Hart!” I retorted. I stuck my tongue out at him and his eyes narrowed. Putting my phone on the bedside cabinet I walked over to him. Leaning on my toes I gave his cheek a quick kiss. “I am going to get ready!” I announced and walked into the bathroom. I wonder what we were doing today?
Stepping out of the shower twenty minutes later I wrapped the towel around me. Staring at myself in the misty mirror. I look happy, really happy. Smiling, I walked into the bedroom to find Triston sitting on the bed in his grey cargo pants and a black tank top. His muscles look exquisite against the black material. His tattoo peeking out like it’s begging to be licked. My tongue darts out imagining what I would like to do to him. Triston’s eyes flicker towards me, taking in my appearance. “I do love when you pick those small towels, they definitely suit you,” he winks cheekily. I poke my tongue out at him as he passes me to get to the bathroom. I feel a slap on my ass. “Hey!” I spin on my heel. His laugh was infectious, “You weren’t complaining the other night!” Pulling me into him, his lips crash onto mine. His tongue in my mouth making me moan as he devoured me. Reluctantly pulling away, his voice low and raspy. “Get dressed, or we may never leave this bedroom, Miss Reid.” Opening the closet doors,I pull out my blue denim shorts and my white tank top. It had the script “Los Angeles” on the front. I get dressed while Triston finishes up in the bathroom. When he joins me in the bedroom again I turn to face him. “This suitable to wear on this surprise trip, Mr Hart?” I spin around giving him a 360-degree view.
“Yes, perfect as always. Wear comfortable shoes, we’re going walking.” He walked into the living room and I grabbed my sneakers. I decided to wear my bikini, just in case we ended up at the beach, I would love to see him dripping wet again.
I tied the laces of my black and white Converse sneakers. Grabbing my phone and sliding it into the back pocket of my shorts I walked into the living room. “Ready!” I announced and his eyes lit up.
“Finally! Let’s go, angel!” Triston laced his fingers in mine and we headed out on our adventure.
—∆—
Sliding into the passenger seat of the black little Mercedes SLK I take in the beauty of the car. Excitement for the day ahead causing my stomach to flip-flop. “You have amazing taste in cars, Mr Hart,” I commented turning to him. He started the engine and pulled out of the hotel garage.
“I have amazing taste in a variety of things Miss Reid, including my newest edition, women.” He turned and gave me that sexy devilish smirk, causing the electricity to course through my body.
“Oh really? Well, that’s interesting Mr Hart, because just recently I found out what good taste I have in men. This is such a coincidence; don’t you think?” I giggled at the expression on his face. He nodded earnestly.
“Miss Reid, aren’t you lucky to have landed yourself such an amazing man, and he is wealthy too.” His eyes met mine for a split second. I knew he was joking around, but I needed him to realize I wasn’t with him for his money.
“That’s not why I am interested in him, I hope he knows that,” I answered him seriously. He certainly didn’t know that I had money of my own. Even though I refused to use it, but I didn’t want to think about that right now.
“Miss Reid, he knows that, trust me! He can see what a beautiful, honest and trustworthy woman he has on his arm. He isn't about to let her get away either.” He put his foot on the petrol as we drove up into the Hollywood Hills. As we passed the beautiful mansions and estates I gasped. I couldn’t believe there were people who could afford these amazing homes. I had never given it much thought, but I could possibly buy one of these. The money that was paid out to me from Blake’s family could probably buy a lot more than that.
He pulled up into a parking spot at the bottom of the main hill. He got out and came around to open my door. Triston had his Aviators on hiding his beautiful blue eyes. The view was already breath-taking. You could see most of the city below, as we got higher the view opened before us. “I wanted to bring you here a couple of days ago, I thought you might appreciate the view.” It was a clear morning and the sky was ice blue without a cloud in sight.
“This is really amazing Triston thank you!” We finally got up the hill and I saw why he wanted to bring me here, we were at the back of the Hollywood sign. I have dreamed of standing in this exact spot so many times. It’s one of those teenage dreams you’re never sure you will get to experience. “This,” words failed me, I was rendered speechless. I was so overwhelmed, the tears threatening to spill. I pushed my sunglasses up to take in the view without restriction. Triston turned towards me, “Oh no, I didn’t mean to make you cry!” His arms wrapped around me tightly and I smiled.
“It’s tears of joy Triston, really. I am just overwhelmed. I promise.” He leaned down and kissed me. When he pulled away, he stared at me, “I never want to hurt you.” His voice sincere. “Emily, you know what type of man I am. You know I am into things that aren’t exactly ‘vanilla’. If ever we’re doing anything you’re not comfortable with, tell me okay? Promise me you will!” My heart leaped into my throat and I nodded, “I promise.” I knew he meant when his darker side came out.
His phone started ringing at that moment, interrupting the moment. “Shit!” Pulling his phone out of his pocket answering the call in a gruff voice. “Jessie?” He listened for a few moments, his eyes met mine and he nodded, “Yes, get him in the office. I am back tomorrow and I will brief him. I need this done ASAP.” He listened to her reply, turning away from me I heard him whisper. “He comes near her or my company there will be hell to pay!”
I watched him hang up and slid his phone into the pocket of his pants. “Triston? What’s wrong?” My hand on his arm, I can feel the tension radiating through him.
His eyes meet mine and he gives me a small smile. “Nothing, let’s take in the view. We still have somewhere to go.” Lacing his fingers in mine he pulled me towards the large white letters. The view was spectacular, exactly what I had always thought it would be. I couldn’t believe I was standing up here. Finally, with the most amazing man I could ever ask for.
As we made our way back down the hill to the car, there was something bothering Triston. I could see it, but he didn’t want to tell me what. I pulled out my phone and unlocked it, opening the messages I hit reply to Jessie.
*Okay, you need to tell me what’s going on. Why is T so angry?*
I didn’t need to wait long for a reply.
*It’s better that he tell you. Just enjoy your last day there and deal with it when you’re back. Please?*
This was so frustrating, why wouldn’t anyone tell me what was going on?
“She won’t tell you Em, I asked her not to, I want you to enjoy your day. So, would you please respect my wishes and stop asking?” He glanced over at me and I nodded quickly. There was nothing I could do. I knew when Triston set his mind to something nothing could change it. When we got into the car I noticed the time was only 10:30. It was already so hot I definitely wouldn’t mind a dip in the ocean. Triston pulled onto the I-10 towards Santa Monica moments later. “I am sorry Triston, you just look worried, I don’t like that look on you. I am concerned.” I felt the need to say something, the tension was definitely not helping me enjoy my day.
“I know angel. I will be fine, just let it go okay? Trust me?” He put his hand on my thigh and the electric current that his touch always brings shot through me.
“I do trust you, I just don’t want you upset.” I looked at him and saw his smile creasing the edges of his eyes.
“Okay, I will smile more. Does that help?” He flashed me a beautiful flawless smile and I giggled. He stuck out his tongue and I immediately wanted to kiss him. “Don’t stick out your tongue Mr Hart, it’s rude!” I admonished him.
He laughed out loud. “You weren’t complaining this morning when it was tracing lines down your neck.” His words trailed off as we neared the Santa Monica pier. The memory was fresh in my mind, the feel of his tongue making me tingle. Licking the softest and most sensitive spot behind my ear. “Well, Mr Hart, if you’re going to stick your tongue out at least put it to good use!” I teased him running my hand up his thigh and I felt him tense.
“Miss Reid, I am driving! Please refrain from distracting me.” I giggled at him.
“But Mr Hart, I do love keeping you distracted.” I held onto his toned thigh as he pulled into the parking lot and turned off the engine.
He turned to look at me and smiled, “Now Miss Reid, did you like distracting me?”
I smiled, winking at him, I turned to open my door. “Miss Reid, stop.” His demand was low, deep and sexy. My stomach flip-flopped as I turned to face him. He grabbed my face in his hands and kissed me, hard. His tongue pushing into my mouth eliciting a moan from me. Pulling away slowly I noticed his eyes had tiny flecks of dark blue. It was almost as if there were two of him hidden in that amazing body. “Let’s go angel or I might just fuck you right here in the car.” He got out, ran around the car and opened my door.
We joined the crowds walking along the pier, Triston grabbed my hand as we stopped at the end of the boardwalk. “Emily, I wanted to speak to you about something.” His tone was suddenly so serious and it felt like something bad was coming. My heart constricted and my breath stopped. I knew we were headed back to work tomorrow and maybe this whirlwind romance was coming to an end. Of course it was, who was I kidding. He was my boss after all, I suppose he didn’t want to be dating his staff. I steeled myself for the blow, this was going to crush me. I knew I was falling for him, or had already fallen for him.
I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, “Yea sure, what’s up?” I tried to sound calm, but a storm brewed inside me.
“We go back to New York tomorrow and I have made some decisions.” His voice trailed off and he looked out at the waves crashing below us. I didn’t want to hear this, I couldn’t hear the words from his mouth. I couldn’t hear that he was leaving me. I felt a physical pain in my chest. I needed to get away.
“Triston, stop! Please? Don’t.” I pulled my hand out of his and ran up the boardwalk. My legs felt like lead, but I forced myself forward.
“Emily!” I heard him shout after me but I didn’t stop, I ran as fast as I could.
I passed a few small stores and ran into a small alleyway. I needed to catch my breath. I didn’t hear him anymore, maybe he had given up. I leaned against the wall. Wiping my face with my hand and noticed it was wet, I was crying. I must look like a mess. I rested my head against the wall and closed my eyes. I saw Triston’s face, his sombre expression, and those amazing steel-blue eyes. I knew he was breaking up with me and I ran. How was I going to face him after this? I couldn’t do this; I would need to find another job.
I startled when my phone started ringing in my pocket. I forgot I had it. Pulling it out I saw Triston’s name flashing across the screen. My hands were shaking, I unlocked the screen. “Hello?” my voice was a hoarse whisper. My throat burned and so did my eyes. Tears spilled over my cheeks.
“Miss Reid where the fuck are you?” His voice was harsh and bit into me. “Where the hell did you run to? Tell me where you are now!?” I flinched. I could hear the noise around him. He must be about two blocks away. “Emily! So help me…!”
“I am here…” stepping out of the alleyway. I looked up into those steel-blue eyes. He was angry, rightfully so. He stared at me for a while before grabbing me and pulling me into him. “Jesus Emily, don’t you ever do that to me again!” His words muffled as he kissed the top of my head. I felt my breath leave my body as he squeezed me.
“Triston… can’t… breathe…” He released his grip and held my face in his hands.
“Do. Not. Ever. Run. Again.” He enunciated each word with his gaze locked on mine. I nodded slowly. He looked like he was about to kill someone he was so angry.
“I just… I didn’t… I know what you want to say,” I looked down, not wanting to meet his gaze. I toyed with my phone in my hands to keep myself distracted. The tears burned my eyes and I needed to get away from him. His hands felt hot on my face.
“No, you don’t, Emily, you have no idea what I was about to say. You jumped to conclusions and I can only imagine what it was.” He leaned down. “Look at me,” lifting my head, he kissed me softly. He dropped his hands and laced his fingers through mine. He pulled me along the boardwalk. “Come on, we’re going to talk without you running away this time.” We walked in silence down to the beach, there was no one along this stretch. When we got far enough from the crowds he stopped and turned to me. “Look, Emily, we are going back, but I don’t want you to feel awkward with me being your boss. So we have made a shuffle within the department.”
“What do you mean? What shuffle?” Confusion was evident on my face. I frowned waiting for an explanation.
“Uhm… Well, I promoted Jessie, she will be heading up the sales and accounts department. This is something she has been working towards and I think the time has come.” That sounded great, but why was he so nervous? The thought hit me all at once, he is firing me! Of course!
“Emily? Are you listening?” I shook my head. I was so lost in my own thoughts I didn’t hear him. “I said you’re going to be head of the marketing and event department and my personal assistant.”
It took a while to sink in. “Wait what?!” A promotion? Me? Shit! That’s amazing! I jumped up, wrapping my arms around his neck. “OMG Triston!! Thank you!” His hands on my ass holding me up as I wrapped my legs around his waist. My face in his shoulder as he spun me around. I started giggling and his laugh vibrated through his chest.
“It’s only my pleasure angel, you are amazing and I want you with me at all times!”
—∆—
The plane had just taken off, climbing to cruising altitude. I had so much work to do, with my promotion I would be working late most nights. This was exciting, I couldn’t believe what a crazy week it’s been. Once the seatbelt lights were turned off I took my laptop out. Triston was sleeping next to me. We were up most of the night talking, deciding on how to best introduce ‘us’ to the staff. Since we were going to be traveling together so much I was setting up our itinerary. We had a busy few months ahead of us. “You working?” He mumbled beside me, I turned to see his sleepy expression. It was adorable and my heart filled with emotion.
“Yes, you do realize that my boss is a demanding slave driver don’t you?” A devilish smirk spread across his handsome features. “Yes, he is, but that’s not all you can do to keep him satisfied you know?” He stroked my thigh and I knew what he was thinking. My body responded, but I needed to work. He was going to distract me the whole time and I couldn’t even hide in my office. “I am working Mr Hart!”
“I have something more important for you to work on. Two minutes, I will wait for you.” He got up and walked towards the restrooms. Business class was empty this time of the morning. I looked around and the few people who were there were asleep. I closed my laptop and slid out of my seat, following the path Triston had just taken.
I tapped on the door hoping that it was him on the other side. I heard the lock click and the door opened, he pulled me inside. Locking it behind me, he pinned me to the door. His kiss was forceful, his tongue dancing with mine. He tasted of green tea and peaches.
His right hand slid into the front of my shorts and I moaned. He hushed me, “Shhh…” He stroked my thin panties. “You’re so fucking wet for me, I love it,” he hissed. Unzipping my shorts and pulling them down along with my panties. He stood back up and unzipped his own jeans, I looked down as he freed himself. He was rock hard and pulsing. I ached for him to fill me. He lifted me onto the small counter. “Hold on,” he breathed. He opened my legs and his eyes darkened. He slid into me and I gripped the edge of the counter. Leaning back against the mirror I felt him hit my sweet spot sending shivers over my body.
He pounded me, rough, hard and fast. “I love fucking you angel,” his voice dripped with pure lust. I was about to come undone at the danger of it all. We could get caught! He slammed into me and I felt myself clench. My body started shaking and my pulse quickened. I leaned forward grabbing him. He lifted me and pinned me against the wall. I watched his ass flex in the mirror as he slammed into me. “Come for me angel,” his words pushing me into delirium. To keep from screaming out I bit into his shoulder hard and I felt his release fill me. “Fuck,” he groaned. His curse muffled by my hair.
As we relaxed, he let me down and helped me slide my shorts back on. We made our way back to our seats separately, I slid back into mine and opened my laptop. The flight attendant came around, “Would you like some water? Are you okay Miss? You look flushed.” She smiled sweetly.
I nodded, “Yes I am okay. Thank you. Water would be great. I think it’s just a little too warm here.” Triston was walking back and heard our exchange. Coughing at my comment, trying to hide his amusement. She smiled and handed me the bottled water. I couldn’t believe I just joined the mile-high club, with my boss. Triston slid into his seat and I giggled. I knew I was blushing furiously. He leaned over and whispered, “Now that is how you enjoy a flight.”