Duched

XavierNeal

Duched#1

Duched
Duched#1
ByXavierNeal
©XavierNeal2016
CoverbyAngieMerriam
AllRightsReserved

LicenseNote
No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without authorization of the Author. Any
distributionwithoutexpressconsentisillegalandpunishableincourtoflaw.

Thisbookisaworkoffiction.Names,characters,places,andincidentsareeithertheproductoftheauthor’simaginationorareused
fictitiously,andanyresemblancetoactualpersons,livingordead,events,orlocalesisentirelycoincidental.

Dedication:ToTheUniverse...Thanksforlettingmefeellikeroyaltyinmyownway.

NoteFromTheAuthor:

Thisbookbreaksthe'fourthwall',meaningittalksTOthereader.Thebolditalicsportionsarethe

characterspeakingto“YOU”.

Hopeyouenjoy.

-Xavier

Kellan

“Itwasjustagameofstrippoker.ItisnotasifImarriedastripper.”

ThatIcouldunderstandmyolderbrotherflippingoutabout.

“Youcouldn'thavejustclosedthecurtains?”Hehuffs.“Thedamncurtains,Kellan!”

“Icouldhave,butthenhowwouldtheyhavetakensuchafantasticshotoftheluckyacetattooon

myass?”

You want to see it, don't you? You want to be flashed or see me completely naked? Naked.

Alwayschoosenaked.

Hiswifegigglesfrombehindthemagazineshe'spretendingtoread.

“Really,Soph?”Hisannoyedexpressionfallstoher.“Youdorealizelaughingdoesnothelp this

situation.”

“Whatsituation?”Sophiasnipsonanothersnicker,droppingtheobjectbackintoherlap.“Kellan

wassimply....beingKellan.”

“You'redefendinghim?”

“No,”shesaysslowlyandlooksuptolockeyeswithhim.“I'mjustsayinghehasapoint.It'snot

as if he married a stripper or did something worse like burn down a church in the middle of Sunday

service-”

I extend my legs across the red cushioning of the love seat. “Are you saying if I burn down a

churchnotonaSundaythat'sacceptable?”

Sophiarollshereyes.

Did you not feel as if that was valid information to know? Oh relax. I would never burn

downachurch.Iprefermymediaattentiontocenteraroundmyclothingorlackthereof.

“Yourbrotherwassimplyhavingalittlefun.”

“SomethingIswearyouusedtobe,”Itease.

They say blondes have more fun. Truth is...we really do. Between my hair, my bright blue

eyes, and my toned muscles from a timeless love affair with lacrosse, let's just say the fun never

stopscomingmydirectionwithopenlegs.Ormouths.Rarelyhands.Iprefertheotheroptionsfirst

anyway.

“Right,Soph?Heusedtobefun,didn'the?Hewasn'talways...scowling?”

Shegigglesagainandmyolderbrotheroscillateshisglarebetweenus.

Forthemostpart,lookswise,we'realmostidenticalexceptthatexpressiononhisfacehas

been more prevalent lately. I blame the pressures of being the royal couple. Our entire country,

along with several others, is waiting and watching for their next move. Speculating. Scrutinizing.

Spreading lies about Soph having surgery to tighten her tummy to keep my brother happy. People

gossiping about his wife's choice in winter wear and exercise routines. His decision for them to

attendornotattendsomeone's'grand'birthdayparty.Whenohwhenwilltheyfinallybareanother

heir to the throne that isn't anything more than just a title in a long list of other titles? A throne

builtonmutualassuredprosperitythat'sdiscussedoverbrandyregardlessofwhattimeitmaybe.I

assumeifIcaredmoreaboutwhatjthoughtorgaveadamnaboutwhatisexpectedofme,Imight

frown a little more than I do, which is practically never. Kristopher used to smile quite often too

beforehislovelifewasallthemediawantedtotalkaboutbetweenmyfather'simpeccableabilityto

soothestrainedrelationshipsfromourfamily'spast,andmyinabilitytokeeptheroyaljewelsinmy

pants from being shined. Or at least he used to smile...more.According to him, I came out of the

wombsmilingandhaveyettotrulystopwiththeexceptionofourmother'suntimelydeath.

“Kristopherisfun.He'sjustwearinghisresponsiblebigbrotherface,”shebrushesawayasshe

turnsthepageinhermagazine.

“Responsiblebigbrotherfaceorkingintrainingface?BecauseIswearthat'sthesamefacefather

makesminutesbeforehebeginshislovingyelling,or'shouting'astherestoftheworldcallsit.”

“Hasiteveroccurredtoyouhehasmerittohisshouting?”hedefensivelycounters.

Ishakemyheadwithasmirk.“Noneofmybehaviorsarenew.”

“Precisely.”Hishandswraparoundthebackoftheredcouchinourpalacelibrarywherehiswife

issitting.“YoumaydreadthetitleofDukeandthesocialresponsibilitieswecarryasPrinces,butyou

haveto grow upsometime, Kellan. ForChrist sake, you're almostthirty! It's timeyou start behaving as

such.”

Dread the titles. Dread the social politics. Dread the long list of should dos and never dos.

TheonlythingIdon'tdreadaretheroyaljetsIuseasmyownprivatetaxiservicetoflyaroundthe

worldoneverywhimIhave.Beatsthehelloutofdrowninginanoceanofarchaicexpectations.

There'sasmallpauseprecededbySophiahumming,“Perhapsyou'reright,Kellan.Itishiskingin

trainingface.”

MychortleisdrownedoutbyanothergruntofannoyancefromKristopher.“Donotagreewithhim

rightnow,Sophia.”

“Why?”Sheglancesup.“Becauseyousaidso?BecauseasaladyofthecourtIshouldholdmy

tongue?”

Hermockingcausesmetosmilewide.

I'll admit. It's a guilty pleasure to watch her push back at my brother. It's the reason he

marriedher.Sherefusedtobendtohiseverywhimandcarryhisopinionsasherown.Justmakes

melaughinmomentslikethisheseemstoforgetthat.

“Need I remind you we're not in the 1800s anymore and that you can't behead me for having a

differentopinionthanyours?”

Playfully,Iadd,“Ifyoubeheadedherwhowouldsuckyourcock?”

Hersarcasticlookfallstomeyetsheretorts,“BecausethatwasaproblemforthebelovedPrince

Kristopherbeforeme?IfIrecallcorrectlyhisreputationforbeinganinsufferableasshoundwasworse

thanyours.”

“I'mintheroom.”Kristopherjoinstheconversationonapout.“AndImayhaveenjoyedmyfair

shareoftheoppositesex-”

“Inthecourtyard,”Sophbeginstolist,“inthepool,ontopofyourfather's-”

“But,” he clears his throat, “I knew I had to grow up, eventually. Change. Become a more

respectableadultandproperpillarforthiscountry.”

“BymarryingthewomanwiththeJessicaRabbittattooonherlowerback?”

SophiaandIlaughwhilemybrother'shandsgoflyingintheair.

Hey, it's a pretty sexy tattoo. She's lying on her side in that red dress in a very provocative

pose.Thatlittlebeautyisthereasonwhyshe'snotallowedtowearbikinisinbodiesofwateroutside

theirseparatehomeontheproperty.IknowSophlookslikeapolite,refined,anddown-rightproper

lady,withherelegantasymmetricaldarkbrownhaircutandnaturalmakeup,butifthatwerethe

case my brother would've never married her. He gives me hell for being the wild one yet fails to

rememberonceuponatimehecouldalmostgivemearunformymoney.Almost.

“AllI'msaying,Kellan,ismaybeit'stimetodialbackthebehavior?Rememberthatyourepresent

aroyalbloodline,hellanentirecountryattimes.Maybe...belessselfishinthechoicesyoumake.”

AsusualhisspeechbeginstoboremeandItossmyheadbackwardstostareattheceiling.“Fine.

I will remember to close the goddamn curtains if it prevents you from giving me another lecture on the

repercussionsofsuchaninnocentbehavior.”

“Innocent?!”Hisshriekmakesmelaughagain.

Ohit'salrightthatyoudidittoo.Hesoundsasifhe'ssuckedbacktoomuchheliumwhenit

getsthathigh.

“Kellan, when do you leave for the states?” Sophia's change of topic pulls my attention back

down.

“Why?Tiredofmemakingyourhusband'sbloodpressurerise?”

Shegivesmeaslightshrug.“Ifit'snotyoudoingit,it'sme.”

“You?I'massumingthisisbedroomrelated?”

Herjawdropswhenhecutsheroffimmediately.“Donotanswerthat.”

He plays a prude, but one of these days remind me to tell you about the phone calls our

parents received during our time at boarding school for the inappropriate study system we

developed.Itinvolvedupperclassfemalesandmaplesyrup.

“Whendoyouleave?”mybrothersighs,runninghisfingersthroughhisfreshlycuthair.

“Inthemorning,”IannounceatthesametimeIpullmyvibratingcellphoneoutofmynavy-blue

pantspocket.

“Andyou'regoingjustforaweekthistime?”Sophquestions.

“Roughly.ThecharityrunisonSaturday.I'llreturnhereSundaymorning.”

Kristopherfinallytakesaseatbesidehiswife.“Andwhatareyourunningforthistime?Thefight

against childhood diabetes? The fight against childhood illiteracy? The fight against childhood

petlessness.”

Thatlastoneisnotathing.

“TheCollinMurphyFoundation.Theyarearesearchfoundationthathelpsfightchildhoodcancer.

Their main base is here in Fayeweather, but they partner with a slightly smaller sister branch in the

states.”

“Oh,thisistheoneyoudoeveryyear,”herecalls,slowly.

“Indeed...”IhummyanswerasIopenthetextmessagefromanunknownnumber.Tomypleasant

surpriseit'safairskinnedfemalewithherlongblondehairpulledtoonesideofherfaceandlipspainted

brightredtomatchthepushupbrashe'ssporting.

Thecaptionunderneathreads:Wannamakemeaprincess?

Ah.Thisisoneofthestrippokerlosers.Thenagain,arethereeverreallyanylosersinthat

game?Whodoesn'tlovetoseepeoplenaked?

Thegrinonmyfacecausesmybrothertogrunt,“Please,tellmethat'snotadirtyphoto.”WhenI

glance up and expand my smile he rolls his eyes. “Fine. Please, tell me you can at least remember the

nameofthewomaninthephoto.”

Marilyn? Mindy? Melody? Melissa? I'm getting a rather strong M feeling. Doesn't really

matter.I'mnotgonnacallher.Notjustbecauseshe'strollingtowearacrownlikesomanyofthe

womenImeet,butbecauseitwasjustawildweekendattheWalngnaskiSkiResort.ThinkVegasin

the snow. What happens in Walngnaski stays there....except for whatever the paparazzi parasites

manage to document. I.E. my ass through the glass window. In my defense that was the craziest

thingIdidallweekendunlessyouconsiderchallengingsomeAmericansenator'ssontoadrinking

contestcrazy...

Kristophersighsandshakeshishead.“AndyouwonderwhyIworry...”

Idon'twonder.NordoIactuallycare.AsfarasI'mconcernedI'mjusthavingalittlefun.

Andthere'snothingwrongwithhavingalittleorinmycaseanawfullotoffun...WhatelseamI

supposed to do to pass the time in my seemingly superficial reality? Play cards with my dead

grandmother's bridge club and pretend it's making a difference? No. Unlike my brother, who has

buckledunderthepressuresofbeingaKenningston,Irefusetoletmylastnamerulemyentirelife.

Notnow.Notever.

Brie

IhatetheyouthofAmerica.Ireallydo.

“AndthenBeckytoldKimmywhotoldJuliewhotoldMicheal,thatI was the one who said his

girlfriendlookedlikeatrollinthatselfie.AndIdid.Butsheshouldn'thavetoldher!Beckysworeshe

wouldn't!”Thethinfourteen-year-oldsqueakstothegirlbesideherastheymoveforwardinthecheck-out

line.“BeckyisluckyIdon'tpostonFacebookaboutwhatshedidwithJulie'sboyfriendwhileshewas

awaywithherfamilysnowboarding.”

“ID,”Iinterrupt,whichcauseshertoglareatme.

Ohyes.BecauseI'mslowingdownherday.

Sherollshereyesandreachesintoherdesignerbag.Unabletoimmediatelygrabit,shedropsher

purse and it accidentally lands on the edge of her tray. Like the world's worst catapult, it launches a

horrificcombinationofingredientsstraightatmyface.Caesarsaladdressingandraspberryapplesauce

tricklesdownmyglasseswhileIwipeawayspinachleavesfrommycheeks.

Ifuckinghatemyjob.

The laughter of the teens in line erupts at the same time strips of lemon herb chicken comically

dropfrommyhairnet.

Yes.AsafuckinglunchladyIactuallyhavetowearahairnet.Healthrequirements.Don't

thinkthisiswhattheyoriginallyhadinmindforthereasonitneededtobeanecessity.

“Um,hello,”thebrattybrunettewhines.

Iopenmyeyestoseeherdispleasedexpression.

She'supset?DidIjustshowerherwithfoodinaroomfullofadolescentswhocan'twaitto

postaboutthisonInstagramorSnapchatorLookAtMeAsIGo?NotexactlyhowIwantmyface

acrosstheinternet...NotthatIeverreallywantmyfaceacrosstheinternet.

“Ineedanapkin,”shehuffs.“It'sonmyshoe...”

My eyes glance at the shoes that probably cost half if not my entire pay check. Before I'm even

giveachancetopossiblylosemyoutwardlycalmdisposition,oneoftheoldercafeteriawomen,Bernice,

placesahandonmyshoulder.“Gogetcleanedup,Brie.I'llhandleitfromhere.”

Withasmileofgratitude,Iwhisper,“Thankyou.”

Shehums,stepsinmyplace,andsaysinasassyvoice,“Youcangetyourownnapkinonyourway

togetanewplateoffood.Next!”

I wade through lingering groups of teens where the giggles seem to be growing, straight for the

employee’srestroomintheback.

You're probably wondering what exactly had to go wrong in my life to make me decide to

takeajobasacafeteriaworkerataprivateschool,right?Well,thatmakestwoofus.Butyouwant

thetruth?It'sthepayandflexibility.Mymainprioritiesatthispointinlifearefinally graduating

andbeingabletopayforit.OllanderAcademyhasgivenmewiggleroomtodojustthat.Yousee,

it'snotjustasimpleprivateschool.No.FromwhatIunderstandyouhavetobeonthewaitinglist

forthisplacebythetimeyou'refreshoutofdiapers.Thetuitionaloneishighenoughtorivalwhat

I'vebeenscrapingtopayinmycollegeeducationandtheinterviewprocessforbothparentsaswell

asstudentsisonparwiththehoopsyougothroughtryingtoworkforGoogle.Whileyou'veseenthe

obviousdownsidetosuchanelitistschool,theupsideistheypaytheiremployeesmorethanyou'd

expectandIdon'tjustmeantheteachers.Mostofusnotintheclassroommakewhattheaverage

teacher does in the public school system. They basically hired me to be a fill in. An extra pair of

handstohelpcovervacationdays,sickdays,andanyothercafeteriagruntworktheycouldconjure

uparoundmyclassschedule.Fortherecord.Ovencleaning?Boutasmuchfunasaroutinevaginal

exam.Haven'thadoneofthosesinceIgotanIUDputinthreeyearsago.What?Toopersonal?

After using a damp paper towel to wipe myself down and glass cleaner for my glasses, I head

towards for the front, thankful this is the final round of lunch being served. As soon as she spots me,

Bernicemotionsherhandformetohelpinthebackinstead.Reliefinstantlywashesoverme.

Wouldyoureallywannabethesubjectthatbreaksuptheirafternoongossipingaboutwhois

cheating with who? I didn't think so. And yes, they're always that vicious. I've been here since

August,andI'llbethefirsttosayteenagersaremean.Bothboysandgirls.That'sright.Theguys

are just as cruel verbally and physically. The worst part about the whole experience isn't even the

mind-boggling way they treat each other, it's the fucked up way they treat us. Like we're all just

servantsfortheirwhims.Youwouldn'tbelievehowmanyoftheseprivateschoolteenstreatthestaff

likeweworkdirectlyforthem.Likethey'reathomeandtheirparentscouldwalkintofireusfor

notbendingtotheirdemands.It'sdishearteningtosaytheleast.Awe.Don'tworrytoohard.Justa

few more months of this, and I'll be free to pick a job that's less torture. Or at the very least will

havetheopportunityto.

Therestofmyshiftconsistsofpreppingafewitemsfortheopeningbreakfastcrew,washingthe

dishesalongwithdryingthem,wipingdownallthetablesoncetheroomisempty,andcleaningthefloor.

BythetimeI'mpullingintoaparkingspaceatmyapartmentcomplex,myfeetaredebatingwhetherornot

tojustfalloffindefeat.IttakesamomentlongerthanIwanttocollecttheitemsthatfelloutofmybag

whenIwasforcedtomakeanabruptstopinrushhourtraffic,butit'sthediggingformydisappearedcell

phonethatpushesmylingeringirritationovertheedge.

JustasIunlockthefrontdoor,myroommate,Joviandherboyfriend,Merrick,arecomingoutof

herroomontheoppositesideoftheapartment.

“Thereyouare!”Sheexclaimsjoyfully.

She's just naturally cheerful. We first met in A Thousand Words, A Thousand Pictures, a

classIswearwhosesolepurposeistoweedoutthosewhoonlypickedartasamajorbecausethey

thoughtitwasgoingtobeeasy.Atthattimeherjoyseemedforced,butafterherboyfriendmovedto

town, I realized she was just love sick. She's been a bright ray of sunshine ever since she's been

backinhisarms.

Jovi'smochacoloredfaceinstantlybecomesconcerned.“You'rehomelate.”

“Andmessierthannormal,”Merrickchuckles.

Stop staring...He's not that attractive. I mean...I guess if you're into the hot, tattooed, bad

boy thing with a heart of gold or whatever. Yeah, I'm full of shit. He's a hottie and madly in love

withmyadorableroommate.They'resocutesometimesit'ssickening.

After flashing him my middle finger, I sigh, “Relax. I'm fine. Margret just happened to decide

todaywouldbetheperfectdayformetocleanontopandunderneaththetables.”

Heimmediatelyteases,“Andthewhitesplotchesonyourshirt?They'renotfromtheprincipalare

they?”

Jovilightlyhitshiminhislowerstomach.

As you can see he's got a mouth. And he's cocky. And charismatic. It's a really terrible

combination.Ihonestlydon'tunderstandhowshedecideswhenit'stimetokisshisfaceorslapit.

“Dean,”Icorrectwithasarcasticsmirk.“Andno.Thisiswhathappenswhenteenagersgetpissy

anddon'tpayattentiontowhatthey'redoing.”

“Sonotafoodfight?”Merrickjokesagain.

Withaglare,Isnap,“Please,tellmeyou'releaving.”

“Yeah,”heturnshisblackbaseballcaparoundbeforeadding,“butyou'recomingwithus.”

“I'msorry,what?”

“MerrickgotusallticketsafewweeksagotoTheTremeshowingattheFlatonegallery,”Jovi

attemptstospringthememory.“Remember?”

Hedrapeshisarmaroundherblackcoatcoveredshoulder.“BecauseI'manamazingboyfriend.”

Jovilooksupathim.“Sweet.”

“Fantastic.”

“Thoughtful.”

“Incredible.”

“Andhumbletoo,”Iaddwithanotherfakesmirk.

Ittakeshimaminutetorealizethejoke.

Okay,sonotalwaysthebrightest.Justproofnoone'sperfect.

HedropshisjawinpreparationtoretortwhenJovicontinues,“Comeon,Brie.You'vebeendying

toseethisshowingasmuchasIhave.”

“Butmyfeetaredyingmore,”Icounterinawhine.“Plus,I'vegotatesttostudyforandneedto

workonmyfinalportfolioprojectthatIhaven'tevenstartedand-”

“Allofwhichyoucandoaftertheshowing,”Jovisweetlyargues.Sheslipsoutofherboyfriend's

grasp and makes her way towards me. “Look, we won't even stay long. We'll go grab a quick burger,

swingbytheshowing,andmakesuretohaveyouhomebeforeteno'clock.”

Herbigbrowneyessuddenlybecomeirresistible.

Ugh.They'remadeforeachother.Betweenherpoutandhischarm,Isweartheycouldtake

overtheworld.

“Please?”

“Fine,”Isigh.“Letmegetthesmellofapplesandadolescentsoffofmefirst.”

Jovisquealsoverhervictory.

Maybe a glass of wine and spending some time staring at former Ashwin University

graduate'sartpiecesisexactlywhatIneed.AbluntreminderofwhatI'mworkingsohardtoone

daypossiblyachieve.MaybeI'llbeinspiredtomoveinanewdirection.Seearoutetotakewithmy

passion.ApathIhaven'tseenbefore.Becauseasofrightnow,I'mmonthsawayfromaBAinArt

withabsolutelynofuckingcluewhattodowiththerestofmylife.Hell,whatIwanttodoforthat

matter. Who knows....maybe being at the showing will give my life the little nudge it needs. Can't

blameawomanforhoping,right?

Kellan

Ishovemyhandsintothepocketsofmyblacksuitpants.“Remindmeonemoretime,whyexactly

we'rehere.YouknowIhateartlikethis.”

“BecauseDanamademeswearI'dtakeher,”Hughhuffsasheswipestwoglassesofchampagne.

Takingone,Iquestion,“Isthissomesortofpowerplay?Isshewith-holdingsexfromyou?Using

itasaweaponinherpursuittocontrolyourlife?”

Hisheadtiltsatme.“Speakingfrompersonalexperience?”

“Ofcoursenot,”Ilightlychuckle.“Youshouldknowbynowmydickistheultimateweaponand

it'salwaysloaded.”

Heliftshisglassandmumblesbehindasip.“Horrific.”

Hugh Delmar and I have been mates since his parents shipped him to boarding school at

thirteen. Apparently, he had an early addiction to stealing his mother's prescription pills and a

fascinationwithfondlingherfriends.Shippinghimoutofhiscountrytooursmightnotdirectlyfix

theissueshesoclearlyhad,butitwouldatleastpreventthemediafromwatchinghimself-destruct

hiswaythroughpuberty.WhileHugh'shatredforhisparentscontinuedtogrowoverthefeelingof

abandonment,accordingtohistherapysessionshetoldmeaboutinmocking,buthefoundsolacein

anewsport.HisfirstweekatschoolIcaughthimstaringinconfusionatthegameoflacrosseand

offeredtoexplainit,afterpokingfunathisatrociousAmericanaccentofcourse.

“Look,”Hughbeginswithaheavysigh.“IreallylikeDana.”

“Youreallylikeeverywomanyoudate.You'reaserialdater.”

“Yousaythatbecauseyou'reafraidofmonogamy.”

“Isaythatbecauseyou'reafraidofbeingalone.”

Heshakeshishead.“IreallylikeDana.She'sdifferent-”

“Threetits?”

“She's smart. Kind. Has a job. Doesn't live off her trust fund. And she would rather become a

lesbianthansleepwithyou.”

“Doubtful.”

“Directquote.”Hebeams.“I'dreallyliketoseewherethisgoes,whichhappenstomeandoing

thingssheenjoys.Likeartshowings.”

“Whycan'tsheenjoythingsthatareactuallyfun?Likewhitewaterrafting?”

“Youhatewhitewaterrafting.Youhatehowitfrizzesyourhair.”

Hemakesthatsoundsofeminine.

“True,butyouknowwhatImean.”

“Iknowyou'rebeingapainmyassbecauseyou'rebored.”

“Extremely.Artshowingsarebydefinitionboring.”

They are! Splotches of paint covering a piece of canvas? Oooo....Call the No One Really

GivesADamnPoliceandletthemknowoneoftheirmostwantedfigureshasescaped.

“Well,Danaenjoysthemandsinceyoushowedupadayearlierthananticipatedyou'regoingto

havetodealwithit.”

It was either leave a day early or spend it listening to my father drone on over appropriate

andacceptablepublicbehaviors.Atleastthisway,there'sthepossibilityforfun.Whatdoyoumean

doImeanfunorsex?Theyarethesamething,aren'tthey?

Afterhehasanothersip,hetriestoreassureme,“Noneedtoworry.Weprobablywon'tbehere

toolong.ShereallyjustwantstomeetTremeandpurchaseoneofhispieces.”

“Tositcomfortablyaboveyourkennel?”

Herollshisgreeneyes.“I'msureyoucanfindsomethingheretooccupyyourattentionandmake

theheadlineofabullshitblog.”

Ihaveanothersipandsmirk.“Areyoutryingtogetridofme?”

“Yes.”SeeingDanaheadourdirection,hissmileexpandsandhecommandsthroughgrittedteeth,

“Now,makethisportionoftheeveningtolerableorI'llletDanaplaymatchmakerfortherestofyourtrip

makinglifeabsolutelymiserableforyou.”

“You'reabastard.”

“And that's why we're friends,” he mumbles before asking loudly, “Have you met Treme yet,

babe?

Babe?Bittriteofanicknameforsomeonewhoclaimsthey'reheadoverheels.

“No,”shepoutsandmovesintohisembrace.“He'ssurroundedbywomenworshipinghisevery

move.Ican'tgetevengetcloseenoughtocallouthisnameandpotentiallybeheard.”

Hugh'sfaceseemstofall.“I'msorry,babe.WhatcanIdo?”

Hesoundsgenuine.Howunexpected...

“Would you like me to send Kellan that direction? Give the women something else to follow

aroundfortheevening?”

Withanamusedexpression,Iask,“Didyoujustoffermeupasasacrifice?”

Hegivesmeaquickglance.“Yes.”

“Youdidn'tevenhesitate.”

“Youdidn'texactlyobject.”

Deeminghispointfaircausesmetonodandhaveanothersipofchampagne.

Even those who don't recognize exactly who I am in this country, still have no problem

comingafterme.GuessIlookcloseenoughlikesomeonewhoshouldmatterevenwithouttrying.

Hey,I'mnotegoistical.Iwassimplystatinganobservation.

“Would you?” Dana's overly thinned eyebrows shoot up. “Would you just stand in their general

eye range? I'm sure it would distract enough of them for me to actually ask about the painting I want

beforeanotherbuyerbeatsmetoit.”

Hughgivesmeasternexpression.

Helooksconstipated,doesn'the?

“Fine,”Isighandhaveanothersip.“I'vebeenmeaningtogiveSwissareasontoearnhispay.”

SwissismysecuritydetailinchargeoffollowingmearoundwheneverIenterthestates.We

pay to keep his calendar free considering I have no defined schedule and my father requires all

membersoftheroyalfamilytotravelinpublicwithprotection.Ibelieveit'sridiculoustohavethat

rulewhileI'mhere.Outsideofthemajorcitiesthatareheavilypopulatedbycelebrities,mostpeople

rarely recognize this face as anything other than a bed mate they desire. Hell, until Kristopher

married Sophia whose father is American, most of this country didn't give a shit about Doctenn's

socialites. Which is interesting considering the impressive mix of their language and culture has

beensmashedintooursforgenerations.However,theminuteanAmericanwomanbegandatingan

actualprince,theirinterestspiked,turningourroyalfamilyintoaconstanttrendingtopicforthis

country as well as our own. Guess I should work on keeping my pants up or the curtains closed,

hm?Fromthemessagesmybrotherhasbeensendingmetoday,mylittlestuntisgainingme more

attention than ever before. Apparently, the naked blonde who sent the photo yesterday is an

American actress this country adores. Can't say I feel the same. Her cock sucking ability lacked

focusandeffort.Hopeshegivesmoreenergyinrehearsingherlinesthanshedoesinforeplay.

Danaquicklysqueals,“Thankyou,Kellan!Thankyousomuch!”

Igiveherawinkandstrollofftowardstheleftwhereagroupofoverlyeagerwomenaregathered

aroundathinmanwithintricatedesignsbuzzedintohisjet-blackhair.

Thisshouldberelativelyeasy.

Sauntering Treme's direction with my glass in one hand and the other in my pocket, I scan the

galleryinhopesoffindingsomeonetopassthetimewith.

Asyoucanseemybestmate'smissionistopleasehisgirlfriendforprobablythenexthour

andasImight'vementionedbefore,Ifindartdreadfullyboring.Youmightnotfeelthat'snecessary

to repeat, but quite frankly it is. Keep your hopes up that I find someone who feels as equally

annoyedbythesubjectsothatwecansneakawaytogether.Perhapsonthebalcony.It'sbeenawhile

sinceI'vemadeoutwithanyoneonabalcony.

Ipreparetopausejustbehindthemanoftheeveningwhenapairoflong,lattecoloredlegsglide

into my view. My eyes waste no time roaming down her backside that is presented to me. I'm

immediatelyintriguedbytheshouldertattooIcan'tquitemakeoutfromthisdistanceandpleasedwiththe

deliciouslyroundassbeingdisplayedinanunusualblackcocktaildress.

Itisunusual,isn'tit?Betweenthewayithasonethinstrapwhiletheotheristhickandhow

it seems to purposely hug her hips tightly yet loosely fall to the back of her knees suggests the

designer was indecisive. Or perhaps, the designer made it for women who were indecisive. You

know, women who struggle to make decisions happen to adore me. I have no problem taking

control.

I casually move her direction, continuing my observation while nursing the glass of champagne.

Thewoman,whohasn'tchangedartdisplaysyet,tiltsherheadtoonesideasifincontemplation.

When I arrive beside her, I paste my attention on the piece of so called art, and question,

“Decidingwhetheritlookslikeaswanorduck?”

“Actually,Iwaswonderingwhythisonewasdonewithpastelswhilethemajorityoftheothers

weredonewithwatercolors.”

“Maybehegotbored.”

“Maybethisonemeansmoretohim.”

Oh...Lucky me. She's actually into art. Figures, one way or another I would be forced to

pretendthatanyofthisshitisremotelyfascinating.Atleastwithheritmightendwiththetwoofus

mixingpaints....YoulikewhatIdidthere?Fine.Itwasn'tmymostclevermoment.

“And the answer is a swan,” she states giving me a quick smirk before strolling away.

“Obviously...”

Herremarkcausesmetogrininreturnandfollow.

Maybeshewon'tbeasdullasIwasassuming.

Thistimewhenwestopinfrontofadisplay,Iask,“Whataboutthisone?AgameofTwistergone

awry?”

Thecornerofherliptugsupward.

Shehasasenseofhumor.Ilikethat...

“ShouldIgoaheadandputmyrighthandonred?”

“Abstract art is an acquired taste.” She turns and gives me a snarky smirk. “Like dating you, I

imagine.”

Not sure if I'm more impressed with her remark or the speed at which she had it ready to

deliver.

“Actually,everyonelovesme.I'mlikeacoloringbook.Easytoenjoy.”

She swiftly counters, “You're more like finger paint. So simple it's irritating for anyone with a

mentalcapacitypastKindergarten.”

Idropmymouthatthesametimethere'satugonmyarm.“Excuseme.”WhenIturntoviewthe

interruption,I'mnotsurprisedtoseeawomanwithlongblondehairandabarelytherereddress.“Did

youdropmynumber?”

“See,”thebrownskinnedbeautywhisperssecondsbeforethesoundofherheelsmovingredirects

myattention.

Don'tagreewithher.

Politely,Iremovemyarmfromthestranger'sgrasptofollowtheotherwoman.“Actually,Iwasin

themiddleofaconversationwith-”

“Notinterested,”thewomancallsoverhershoulderassheturnsthecorner.

Ofcourseshe'sinterested.She'sjustplayinghardtoget.AndI'mnotfuckingfingerpaint.

Orpaintbynumbers.Iheardthat!

Theblondetriestostopmeagain,butherwordsdon'tregister.Iturnthecornerthesamedirection

the dark-haired woman did yet am not instantly rewarded with her appearance. On a curious hum, I

continuetoexaminethecrowdonthissideoftheexhibit,whichisfilledwithwhatappeartobeportraits.

Whilepartofmyattentionisbeingsummonedtogivethebrightpaintingsaglance,theotherisdetermined

tofindwherethecoffeecoloredfemalewent,notonlytoproveherwrong,buttogetthelastwordinthe

conversation.

Bad habit. What can I say? When arguing I happen to have a compulsive need to have the

lastword.

Allofasudden,acouplestepsintomypathwayexposingthehidingminx.

Withapleasedsmirk,Imoveintothepositionbesideher,andstate,“Hiding?”

Shedoesn'tbotherlookingmydirection.“Following?”

“Perhaps,”Ireplyandhaveanothersip.“AreyouafanofTreme?”

Tomysurprise,shequestions,“Asapersonoranartist?”

“Either.”

“Notreally.”

Heranswerarchesmyeyebrows.

“Heattendedthesameuniversityasme.Weactuallystartedatthesametimebutbecausehenever

had a problem scraping up tuition, he graduated long before me.” The slight bitterness in her tone is

unmistakable. “He was a talented asshole then and from what I've manage to overhear him say to the

groupiesathisfeettonight,he'satalentedrichassholenow.”

Curiositygetsthebetterofme.“Ifyoudespisehim-”

“Ineversaidthat.”

“Youdidn'thavetoo.Onlyacompleteidiotwouldn'thavepickeduponthat.”

Shefinallyturnstomeandsnips,“Whichyou'retryingtoproveyou'renot?”

Thefireinhertoffeecoloredeyesexpandsmygrin.“Iwastryingtounderstandwhyyou'rehereif

you hate him.” Her lack of an answer pushes me to prod. “Here to see if maybe his work wasn't as

amazingasitusedtobe?”

“Youthinkit'samazing?”

“Ithinkit'srubbish,butinallhonesty,Ithinkthatwayaboutallartingeneral.”

Confusioncoatsherexpressionatthesametimeshefoldsherarms.“Allart?”

“Wellartinthisform.Paintings.Portraits.Sculptures.Thingsofthatnature.”

“We'retalkingtheclassicstoo?”

“Yeah.Idon'treallygetthepoint.”Ishrugmyindifference.“Whypayhomageandthousandsof

dollarstopeoplewhosimplythrewcolorstogether?Thenthere'sthefactquiteoftenthosecolorsdon't

evencreateanactualpicture,juststainsstupidlyplacedonacanvas.”

Herjawdropsinwhatappearstobeappall.

Okay.Sowe'rebacktonothavingfun.Iknowyou'rethinkingIreallyshouldfindtheblonde

again,butthisviewismuchbettereveniftheconversationispainful.Justlookathersoft,fulllips.

The tiny mole right above them. Wonder how amazing they would look wrapped around my cock?

Howeffortlesslytheywouldgrazemyshaftwhilemyhandgripsthebackofherhairtohelpkeep

herinplace?

Suddenly,shesnaps,“Firstoff,stopthinkingaboutmenaked.”

Takenoffguard,myownmouthcracksopen.

Ofcoursesheisnakedinthescenario.Whywouldshebeclothed?Howbloodyvanillaare

yourfantasiesthatyouwouldassumeshe'dbeclothed?

“Second,artofthismedium,isn'taboutthepicturesyoumayormaynotsee.Art,andImeanall

art, not just paintings and sculptures, but music and literature and theater, are reflections of the soul.

They're products of passion. They're humanities way of whispering through a medium to ignite, or

reignite,thoselittlesparksthatsetyourspiritonfire.Maybethereasonyoudon'tgetitissimplybecause

youhaveyettoseeonethatspeakstoyou.”Herspeechshutsmymouth,whichiswhenshefinisheswith,

“HopeyoufinditsoonbecauseI'mdonetalkingtoyou.”

Sheturnsandheadsawayfrommeoncemore,exceptthistimeI'mnotcertainifI'mfollowingher

justbecauseofthephysicalattractionoranuncontrollableneedtoarguewithher.

It'snotlikeI'venevermetawomannotinterestedinme.Albeitit'srare,butithappens.And

it'snotasifshe'sthefirstwomantosnapbackorpushduringaconversation.Idon'tknowexactly

whatitisthathasmetrailingafterherlikealostpuppysheneedstotakehome,butIhaveevery

intentiononfindingout.

Hermovementsstopsoonerthanexpected.

Igivethecanvascoveredinfourbluedotsaglance.

“Nowthisisjustcrap,”shemuttersunderherbreath.

Ichortle,“Oh?Doesn'tspeaktoyoursoul?”

Shetossesmeasarcasticglareandbites,“Whywon'tyougoaway?”

“Becauseyoudon'twantmetoo.”

Herringlesslefthandlandsonherhip.

Noweddingrings.Goodsign.

“Andwhatexactlygivesyouthatimpression?WasitwhenIwalkedawaythefirsttime?WhenI

toldyouIwasn'tinterested?Orperhaps...itwaswhenItoldyouIwasdonespeakingtoyou?”

“Yetyoucontinuetoengagemeinconversationeveryopportunitypresented.”

Bythewayshe'stryingnottosmile,Ithinkit'ssafetoassumeshefindsmylogicvalid.

Obviously,youagree.

“Look,whileyou'vegotthewholegorgeousPaulWalkerinhisprimethinggoingforyou-”

“Thankyou.”

“I've...gotaboyfriend,soyoushouldjustmoveonnow.”

She'snotaverygoodliar.Oddlyenoughit'sarelief.MostofthewomenIsurroundmyself

withareprofessionals,likedeceptionisanOlympicsport.AtleastwhenshesayssomethingtomeI

don'tfeelcompelledtoimmediatelyquestionifthereisaself-servingulteriormotive.Hey,remind

metograbhername.Can'tbelieveI'veyettodothat.

Itrynottosmile.“Aboyfriend?”

“That'sright.”

“Isheherewithyou?”

“Yup.”

“Where?”

“He'srightoverthere.”Shemotionsherhandbehindher.“Theguybythefarwallwithbackwards

blackbaseballcap.”

Myeyesimmediatelycutthatdirection.AssoonasIspothim,Inod.“Youmeantheonemaking

out with the chick who is also wearing a little black dress?” Her head spins around to check and I

chuckle,“ThoughImustsayIfindyoursmoreenjoyable.Iappreciatetheangledcutinfrontplayingpeek

aboowiththeideaofwhat'sunderneath.”

Stillfacingthecouplemakingout,shegrumbles,“Seriously?It'sliketheyhavemagnetsintheir

mouths.”

“It'scharming.”

“It'sdisgusting.”Onaheavysigh,sheturnsbackaroundtofacemewithascowl.“Fine.Idon't

reallyhaveaboyfriend,butIhavenointerestinjoiningwhatIcanonlyassumeisaverylonglistofone

nightstands.”

Theinstantrejectionisn'tsurprising.

Didyoureallyexpectanythingelse?

“Kellan!”Dana'svoicecallsmynamewithsuchexcitementitcausesmyeyebrowstolower.“Oh

myGod,Kellan!”ThemomentIlookovermyshoulder,shepointsatthepaintingwe'reinfrontof.“He

soldittome!Canyoubelieveit?”

Disbeliefdropsmyjaw.

Shecan'tpossiblybeserious.WhatonEarthcouldthispossibly'say'toher?ShallIusethis

inmyargumentwiththegorgeousgirlwhosenameIstilldon'tknow?

“Nothankstoyou,”Hughhuffsfrombehindher.“Allyouhadtodowasstandtherelongenoughto

bebaitandsomehowyoumanagedtofuckthatup.Ifwehadn'tbumpedintoTreme'sagentwhilehavinga

smoke,youwouldbebuyingthatpaintingfromwhoeverbeathertoitasanapology.”

No...Probablynot.

I roll my eyes at his irritation and turn back to where the reason I was distracted to begin with

shouldstillbestanding.Disappointmentandaggravationfillmychestatherdisappearance.Refusingto

instantlygiveup,Iletmyeyessearchthedirectionherfriendswerekissingtoseethatthey'vevanishedas

well.

Of course she's gone. She's used every out offered just as she's used every invitation

presented.Sheisexactlylikeherattire.Thoughafterhavingactuallyspokenwithher,Ibelievemy

originalassumptionwaswrong.She'snotindecisive.Quitetheopposite.She,likeherdressIwish

would've ended up on my hotel room floor, is a conflicting urge to remain greatly guarded and

wildlywicked.Theideaofawomanwillingtobenaughtyjustformehasanunexpectedappeal.

Hm.Ilikeunexpected.It'swheretherealfuntrulybegins...

Brie

Thevibratingnexttomyearcausesmetogroan.

Damnit.DidIreallyfallasleepstudyingatthekitchentable?

Onanotherlowgrunt,Istruggletositupinthewoodenchairjustasthevibratingstops.Igrabmy

phoneandswipetoopenthenewmessagewaitingforme.

Dad:Sorrytocancellastminute.Neededatthestore.Marissacalledin.Loveyou.

Aheavysighofirritationescapesme.

It'snotlikeheworksatatop-secretfacilitythatcan'tfunctionwithouthim.Heworksfora

grocery store chain that has at least four other managers they could call when one decides they

don't feel like showing up. But who do they always call first because they know he won't say no?

That'sright.Mydad.Ugh.Thissucks.I'mnotevenpissedaboutthefactI'llbasicallybethrowing

moneyawaybyusnotgoing.I'mpissedI'mnotgonnagettospendtimewithhim.Again.Between

ourschedulesit'ssomethingthat'scrossingtheverythinlineintoimpossibleunlikemymotheron

theotherhandwhorarelyeverseemsunavailable.She'softenalittletooavailableifyoucatchmy

drift. A benefit of being a paid hair magician I suppose. Her hours are hers to do with and

rescheduleasshepleases.

Alightknockingonthefrontdoordragsmyattentionawayfromthedisappointingtext.

Who the hell could that be? Jovi would've texted if she left her keys and Merrick...well as

much as I hate to say this out loud, that asshole has his own key. I swear sometimes it's like he

alreadyliveshere.

The knocking persists and I stare at the door from across the room wondering how long it will

continuebeforetheygiveup.

Notahugefanofansweringthedoor.Period.Truthfully,theonlypersonwhotendstoknock

atthistimeisourbitchydownstairsneighborwhothinksshehasanelephantparadelivingabove

her.

The knocking suddenly gets a louder and sharper, almost impatient. Curiosity yanks me onto my

feetandtowardsthedemandingpresencewaitingontheotherside.Iattempttoflattenmywavyhairthat

hadbeendoublingasapillowandwipeawayanypossibledroolthatprovesyoucan'treallylearnthe

answerstoatestthroughosmosis.

Believe me. After almost ten years of cramming for tests, if it hasn't worked by now, it's

nevergoingto.

IunlockthedoorandcrackitopentoseesomeoneIhavenoreasonto.

Whatthehell?Areyouseeingthis?

The blonde model from the art showing flashes me the same arrogant grin he was flaunting last

night.

What?No.Idon'tknowhisnameanddon'ttechnicallyknow that he's really a model, but

comeon.Teeththatwhite?Eyesthatbright?Facethatflawless?Buildthat...bicepy?He'seithera

goddamnmodelorthegenepoollotterywinnerofthemillennium.

“Latte?”

WithouthesitationIshutthedoorandlockitagain.

“Notamorningperson?”

“No.I'mnotastalkingperson.”

“I'mnotstalkingyou.”

“Thefactyou'reonmyfrontdoorstepwouldbeavalidargumentagainstthat.”Leaningmybody

slightly against the door, I snip, “And I don't know about whatever country you cruised over from, but

stalkingintheUnitedStatesisverymuchillegal.”

Irefusetoadmithowsexyhisaccentis.Wait.Shit.Ijustdid,huh?

“Illegal in Doctenn as well,” he states matter of fact. “Fairly certain stalking is illegal in all

countries.”

“Yethereyouare.”

Alongmomentofsilencefalls,butI'mnotremotelyconvincedhe'sgivenup.

Comeon.Whatkindaguywouldgothroughallthiseffortintofindingyouthengiveupthe

minuteyoutoldhimtoo?

Iliftmyselfontothetipsofmytoestopeerthroughthepeephole.

Likeaknowitall,heliftsoneofthecupsinfrontofit,andrepeats,“Latte?”

“Youmeanthecoffeeyoupoisonedsoyoucouldrapeandmolestme?”

“Doesn'trapecovermolesting?”

Glaringathimthroughthetinyhole,Igrunt,“Semantics?Really?You'reacompletestrangeron

mydoorstep,stalkingmeandofferingmeadruggedbeverageyetyouwannaarguesexualsemantics?”

Theblondechortlesandshakeshishead.“Notacompletestranger.Wemetlastnight.”

“Youstalkedmethentoo...”

“My name is Kellan. Kellan Kenningston.” After the statement, he lifts the cup he had been

offeringme,hasasip,andsmiles.“Notdrugged.”Asifcanseehisvictory,heasks,“Now,doyoumind

invitingmeintofinishthisconversation?It'sabitfrigidoutside.”

Ilowermyselfbacktomyfeetandreluctantlyopenthedoor.

Youbetterbepreparedtotellthecopseverythingthathappenedhereifthisgoesbad.Imean

everything.Makesuretoemphasizehowheharassedmeandnothowhotheis.

“My roommate's dad is a cop.” I inform immediately. “And not just like a run of the mill cop

either.He'saPoliceCommissioner.Soifyouhurtme,she'llmakesurehehuntsyoudownandgivesyoua

cellmatewhowillappreciateyourgorgeousmouthinawayyouprobablywon'tenjoy.”

Kellanstepsinsidepastme.“Ithinkyourmouthisgorgeoustoo.”

That....Thatbackfiredalittle.It'snotwhatImeant!Imeanyeah,he'sgotanincrediblepair

oflips.Lipsthatcouldprobablypaymybodythedevotionithasn'treceivedinaverylongtime...

“Nowwho'sthinkingaboutwhonaked?”

Wellofcoursehewouldbenakedwhilehismouthisexploringpartsofme!Otherwisethat

would just be a wasted fantasy! Wait. Why am I fantasizing about a stranger? A hot British

stranger?NotBritish.Doctenn.They'relikecousinsorcloseenough,right?

Heexpandshissmirkasheoffersmethecuponcemore.“Latte?”

“Howdidyoufindme?”Itakethebeverage.“Ididn'tevengiveyoumyname.”

“Fortherightpricethereareveryfewthingsthatcannotbefoundorcoveredup,Brie.”

“Howverydoubleoannoyingofyoutosay.”Bracingmybackagainstthedooragain,Ihaveasip.

“Whyareyouhere?Whatdoyouwant?”

Kellanleanshismuscularframeagainstthebacksideofthecouch.“Gooutwithme.”

“No.”

“I'monlyintownforaweek.”

“You'relookingforafling,”Ideclare.

Heinstantlyquestions,“When'sthelasttimeyou'vebeenflung?”

Notimportant...

Sensinghisassumptionisprobablycorrect,hecontinuesinanunexpectedkindvoice,“Onedate.

That'sallI'masking.”

“Letmegetthisstraight.YoucashedinoneofyourBondlikefavorstohuntdownmynameand

addressjusttoaskmeout?”

“It'sromantic.”

“It's creepy,” I counter and move his direction. “And a lie. You could've easily got my phone

numberandaskedthatway.Lessinvasive.”

“WhatcanIsay?”Hisbodymigratestowardsmine.“I'mhardertodenyinperson.”

OnlybecausehisgoddamneyesandsmiletwinklelikesomeweirdPixaranimationtrick.

“Notthathard.”Iwink.

“Isthatano?”

“That'sahellno,”thereplyisfollowedwithmemovingbackwardstowardsmybedroom.“Now

thankyouforthecoffee,butIhaveclassI'llbelateforifIkeepwastingmytimearguingwithyou.”

Kellannodsslowlyasifhedoesn'tbelievehe'sbeencompletelydefeated.

Which he has. 110% defeated. I'm not going out with some hot accented stranger who

broughtmecoffee,evenifitisthemostromanceI'vehadinmylifeoverthepasttwoyears.

“CanIwalkyouthere?”

Nowinthedoorwayofmyroom,Igivehimapuzzledlook.“It'satenminutedriveonagoodday.

NowayamIwalkingtocampus.”

“Toyourcarthen?”

“You'realittleneedyforsomeonesopretty.”

ThesmirkIhatetoadmitIenjoyseeingappearsagain.“Persistent.”

“Backtostalkingterritory,”Iteasebeforeadding,“andI'mlockingmydoor,sodon'tthinkabout

tryingtoopenittoconfirmwhetherornotmymeasurementsareaccurateinyourfantasies.”

LordknowsI'mwonderingifhisare....

Quickly, I slip out of my pajamas bottom and into a pair of jeans. While the first part of my

wardrobe change is always the easiest, the inevitable hunt for my favorite sweatshirt and paint stained

chucksoftenhasmejoggingtoclasstopreventbeinglateduringwinter.

It'swhatIpracticallyhibernateinallseason.

OnceI'vecompletelychanged,brushedmyteeth,andmanagedtoputallmyhairintoafrizzyhigh

ponytail, I swipe the beverage from my dresser and exit to the living room where Kellan is patiently

waiting.

“Notasimpressiveasthelittlenumberyouhadonlastnight,butnonethelesssexyinabangmein

mydormroomsortofway.”

HiscommentreceivesaneyerollasImakemywaytothekitchentabletorepackmybag.“Keep

dreaming...”

“YousaidyoustartedatAshwinthesameyearasTreme?”

“IneversaidAshwin.”

“It'stheonlyuniversitywithintenminutesofhere.”

Damnit.WhydoIkeeplettinginformationsliptohim?

“Areyouatleastclosetograduating?”

AftershuttingthebookIfellasleepon,Ireply,“BeginningofJuneiswhenIshouldwalkacross

thestage.”

“Lastsemester.”

“Yeah.”Ishoveitinmynotebook,closetheshoulderbag,andgrabmyphone.“Butdon'tworry.I

won'tboreyouwithdetailsofmydegree.”

Kellansmirksagainwhilewatchingmeswipemykeysoffthecounter.“Maybethetopicwouldbe

lessboringifitwerecomingoutofaprettiersubject.Likeyou.”

“Doubtful.”Iopenthefrontdoorandusherhimout.OnceI'velockedup,thetwoofusbegindown

the stairs when I notice a large, tan man with a buzzed haircut lurking just around the corner. Friend of

yours?”

Hegrouses.“Notbychoice.”

Intrigued,Iquestion,“Meaning?”

“As per the royal pain in the ass known as my father, a security detail is required at all times.

Distancehoweverisdebatable.”

I stop my body on the bottom stair and turn to face Kellan. “Why? Are you...famous or

something?”

Thesecurityguardchucklesunderhisbreath.

Ohshit.Ishe?Notthatitwould'vemadeadifferencetomydateanswer.Betweenusthough,

itwouldbealittleexcitingtobeabletosayIturneddownacelebrity.

“Orsomething,”hemutters.“Whichwaytoyourcar?”

Itiltmyheadtotheside.“What'sorsomething?Doyounotwannatellme?”

“Youwon'tbelieveme.”

“Tryme.”

Hehesitatesbeforesighing,“I'maprince.”

“Aprince.”

“AndaDuke.”

“BecauseDisneywasjusthandingouttitlesthatday?”

Kellanfightstheurgetochuckle.“I'mserious.I'mPrinceofDoctennandDukeofRockbridge.Not

theonlyprinceofDoctenn,Ihaveanolderbrotherbeinggroomedtorepresentthecrown,butIamthe

onlyDukeofRockbridge.Allofitisreallyjustuselessbureaucratictitlesatthispoint.Afancywayof

sayingwhosebloodlinelastedlongerandrosehigherthanwhose.”

Great. I let a delusional sociopath in for coffee this morning. See. This is exactly what

happenswhenIdon'tgetenoughsleep.

“Sure.”Ishrugandturnbackaroundtofinishmyroutetomycar.“Youdon'twannagivemethe

real reason then fine. It's none of my business.” When I arrive at my car, I open the door, and state,

“Thanksagainforthecoffee.”

Kellancorrects,“Latte.”

“God,you'reoneofthosepeople,”Imumble.

ThinksMonetwasoverratedbutwon'thesitatetocallhisbaristaanartist.

“Haveaniceday,Kellan.”

Ishutthedoorafterhegivesmeonefinalwavefromwherehe'swaitingonthesidewalk.Iplace

mycoffeeinthereceiptfilledcupholder,tossmybagintheseatbesideme,andstartmycar.Anunusual

clickingsoundescapes,yetnothinghappens.

Thiscan'tbegood.

I repeat the action again except this time I watch the dashboard for signs of life. Signs of hope.

DisbeliefpushesmebackagainsttheseatasIstareoninhorror.

Howthehellcouldthismorninggetanyworse?

There'salighttappingatmywindow.

Andthat'swhyyoushouldneveraskthatquestion.

Ilookhisdirectionwithadispleasedexpression.

“Problem?”

“Pretty sure my battery is dead.” Suspicious I question slowly, “Did you kill my battery so I

wouldhavetogetaridefromyou?”

Thesarcasticexpressiononhisfacesaysitall.

Hey!Itcouldhappen.Hedidshowupwithcoffeeoutofnowhere.What?OfcourseIturned

my lights off last night. Oh...oh the light I turned on to look for my cell phone. I'm pretty sure I

turneditoff...

“Doyouneedaride?”

Iletmyshouldersdrop.“Yes...”

“I'd love to give you one,” Kellan says sweetly before letting his smile turn villainous, “in

exchangeforadatetonight.”

A combination of shock and frustration flood my face. “Extortion? You think the way to a girl's

heartisextortion?”

“Idon'tknowthewaytoagirl'sheart.”Heleanshisfreearmagainsttheroofofmycar.“Ialways

enduptakingadetourdownsouth.”

Disgustedandirked,Iopenthecardoor,pleasedwhenitknocksintohisbodyinwhatappearsto

beapainfulway.

PrinceofPrickery.Isthatarealcountrynow?

Aftercollectingmythings,Iexitmycar,andstate,“I'llwalk.”

“You'llmissyourtest.”

Fuck.He'sright.AndIknowhe'sright.Andheknowshe'sright,whichmakesthisentire

situationevenworse.RemindmewhatIdidagaintopissofftheuniversethismorning?

“How'dyouknowIhaveatest?”

“SawyourtextbookopenandyournoteswhileIwaswaitingforyoutochange.”

“Nosy.”

Kellanwinks.“Comeon,Brie.Onedate.That'sallI'maskingfor.”

“Why?”Iadjustmyshoulderbag.“You'veprobablygotaliterallineofwomenwhowanttosleep

withyou.Whyareyoubotheringme?Isthisthatwholechallengesaremorefunthing?Istheresomesort

ofwagerinvolved?JusttellmewhoitisIneedtolietoandwecanendthisnow.”

Helightlylaughsandthesoundisunexpectedlyintoxicating.

Notcool...

“Nobets.You'rejustfuntobearound-”

“Youmeanarguewith.”

“Isn't that what I said?” I twitch a glare, which is when he adds with another grin, “See. I like

you.”

“Youdon'tknowme.”

“Thenletme.”

Don'tswoonoverhim!He'snotarealprince!

Knowing the time is ticking for me to get to class, I shrug. “Fine. One date. And I get to pick

whereandwhen.”

Hesurrendershisfreehand.“Nameit.”

“Getmetoclassfirst.”

“Swiss,”heyellsatthemanwhohasbeenwaiting.“Goaheadandstartthevehicle,please.We'll

beheadedtoAshwinUniversity.”

Themannodsattheinstructionswhilewemakeourwayhisdirection.

“Swiss?Likethecheese?”

Kellanshakeshishead.“Likethearmyknife.”

“That'salittlemorethreateningthanthedairyproduct.”

“Let'shopeso,”hechuckles.“Can'timaginemyfatherwouldbehappypayinghisretainerifhe

couldn'tdomorethangowellwithroastbeef.”

“Hisretainer?Doyouusehimoften?”

“EverytimeIstepfootinthestates.”

“Andyou'refromDoctenn?Whichiswhereagain?”

“It'sanislandcountryintheAtlantic.BittotherightoftheUK.We'remoreofamashupofthem

andAmericans.Everythingfromculturaltolanguage.It'sarunningjokewe'rethebestofbothworlds.”

“Ithoughtjokesweresupposedtobefunny.”

HeopenstheSUVdoorforme,smilejustasprevalentasalways.“Clever.”

Inside the vehicle, I slide to the other side, and buckle my seat belt. Kellan on the other hand

doesn'tbotherwithmimickingmysafetyaction.Hisphoneseemsmoreimportant.

Greatdatematerial...Can'tevenspendthetenminutesinthecarwithmewithoutpullingout

extraentertainment.Heseemslikearealcatch.

Allofasudden,heextendsthephonemydirection.“ProofthatI'mnotthepsychopathyouthinkI

am.”

“Sociopath.”

Kellancocksagrin.“Semanticsagain.”

I reach for the device surprised to see the numerous articles waiting to read from the Google

searchhedidonhimself.Stunned,Iscrollthroughtheimages,shockedatthenumerouslabelsassuringhe

is indeed some line of royalty, but not surprised by the countless photos with women whose names I

highlydoubthecanrecall.

Thisexplainstheprettyplayboyarroganceandinsistenceonhavingwhateverhecangethis

manicuredfingerswrappedaround.Uh...nojoke.Hisnailsaremanicured.Andcleanerthanmine.

Ican'tbelieveI'mgonnagooutwithaguywhoprobablyspendsmoretimeinthemirrorthanIdo.

What?Yeah...It'smucheasiertofocusonthatthantheoutlandishtruthaboutthemanintheSUV

nexttomebeinganactualreallifeprince.

Withacrookedsmirk,Isnidelyremark,“Yourbrother'shotter.”

Kellansnatcheshisphonefrommyhands.“He'smarried.”

“Goodonesalwaysare.”

Hebeginstoscowl,whichonlycausesmirthtofloodmyeyes.Atthesight,heimmediatelylooks

away in a poor attempt to hide his embarrassment. The crimson color coating his cheeks causes minor

guilttocultivate.

Didn'tknowitwasatouchytopic.Justthoughtitwastypicalsiblingrivalrybullshit.

There'salong,sullenlullbeforeIquestion,“Sobesidesstalkingartstudentsandmakingfunof

paintings,whatdoyoudoforaliving?”

Thechangeinsubjectdissipatestheredcolorwithhisnaturalgoldenone.“Ifindvariouswaysto

occupymytime.”

“FromthelooksofthosephotosIwouldguessyouspendmostofyourtimesluthunting.”

Swisstriestohidehislaughbutfails.

Ratherthanscoldinghim,Kellanstatestome,“Idon'thavetohuntforwomenlikethat.”

“Justwomenlikeme?Theoneswhotellyouno?”

“Don'thuntforthemeither.”

“Sojustme?”

Heleansoverandquietlyreassures,“Just.You.”

Tobeflatteredorfreakout....thatisthequestion.

“Outside of enjoying my thriving social life, I actively avoid as many royal engagements as

possible, run a non-profit organization, and volunteer my time to supporting various charities centered

aroundchildren.”

Mybottomlipdropsinsurprise.

“See.”Heliftshiseyebrowsatmewithaplayfulsmile.“I'mfullofsurprises.”

“Andhotair,”Isneerinanattempttomaskmygrowinginterest.

Kellanwetshisperfectlipsyettherestofhisbodyretreatsbacktowardsthewindow.“Ourdate.

Whenandwhere?”

“We'renottocampusyet.”

“Almost,”heinformsquickly.“Onagooddaytenminutes.Onagreatdayseven.”

Theretortreceivesaglare,whichIassumeheenjoysbythesmugsmirkIgetinreturn.

Whydoesitseemtobeeverypunchweexchangeisentertaining?Thathe'sthrivingonthe

factI'mnotjustrollingoverforhim?Thisistotally‘thechallengeistheonlythrill’conceptinfull

effect.Onlywaytokillitwouldbetothrowmyselfathimlikeeveryotherwoman.

Kellan'sblueeyespierceminewithquestion.

Butwherewouldthefuninthatbe?Yeah,Ikindawanthimtogoaway,butIalsowanthim

torealizehe'sbarkingupthewrongtree.I'mtoowrongforhimandnotbecausehe'stooperfectin

comparisontome.

“Youcanmeetmeatmyapartmentat6:30tonight,”IstateatthesametimeSwissstopstheSUV.

“Obviously,you'llneedtohavehimdrive.”

“Attire?”

Afunschemetoprovethisisaterribleideapopsintomymind.“Dresstoimpress.”Instantlya

suspicious look appears, which causes me to quickly end the conversation. “Thanks for the ride. Gotta

go.”

Onmywayout,heasks,“Doyouneedarideafterclass?”

“Nodad,I'llcatcharidefromoneoftheotherkids.”MysmilemeetshissecondsbeforeIshutthe

door.Afteronefinalwave,Ifixmyshoulderbagandhustleintotheoceanofstudents.

About half way to Lancaster building, my eyes spot the two people who could have helped

prevent the situation I stumbled into this morning. I snake through the crowd quickly and bump brashly

intoMerrick.

Hisattentiondropsfromhisgirlfriendtome.“Andwherethehellwereyoutwothismorning?”

“Iwasstudying.”

Withasarcasticexpression,Iask,“Firstthinginthemorning?”

“Nobettertimetostudyanatomy.”Merrick'scommentisfollowedbyachucklethatreceiveshim

aswatfromJoviwhosefaceisbeginningtochangecolors.

“Yeah well, while you were finally learning where the clitoris is, I was stuck with a car that

wouldn'tstart.”

“Aw,I'msorry,”Jovirushestoapologize.“I'mgladyoufoundawayhere!Wetotallywould've

givenyouarideif-”

“Iknowwheretheclitis,”Merrickinterruptsloudly.“I'venevermissedit!Hell,infactI,,,”

“Ifyoufinishthatsentenceyouwon'tbeseeinganddefinitelynotstudyingitagainanytimesoon,”

myroommatethreatensasweenterthebuilding.

Thetwoofusgigglewhilehepouts.

Iwastotallykiddingabouttheclitthing.WhatcanIsay?GuessI'mstillalittlewoundup

frompokingtheprinceallmorning.

Stoppingoutsideourlectureroom,Merricktugsherintohimcloserandsighs,“Justafewmore

monthsandthenIcanspendeverymorningwithachemistrylesson.”

Igivehimaquestionablelook.“Switchingsubjectstoavoidtrouble?”

Hegivesmeaproudnod.

“Wellcanweavoidthattopictoo?I'mnotquitereadytofacethefactinfivemonthsI'mgoingto

bejoblessandhomeless,”Isighdeeply.

“You're not going to be homeless. We're not going to kick you out,” Jovi insists. “And we don't

evenknowifMerrickisgoingtomoveinwithusormewithhimorexactlyhowanyofthat'sgoingto

work.”

“Butitisgoingtowork,”hestatesfirmly.“Thisnotlivingtogetherbullshithasreacheditsend.

Thankfuck.”

Ratherthancontinuetheconversationormockhimforhisbeingsoinlovewithhisgirlfriendthat

tobeawayfromherissomeShakespeareantragedy,Ispinonmyheels,andsay,“Grabbingourseats.See

youlater,Merrick.”

“Later,Brie.”

Itakeafewstepsdownandslideintothefirstseat.

Theyareadorable.I'lladmitit.Theyhavethiswholetimelessloveaffairromanceyouread

aboutinaNewYorkTimesBestSellerorreallyhopefulindiewriter.It'ssoperfectitalmostseems

too good to be true, but that's not the worst part. It's having it flashed in your face. Having a

constant reminder of how you've spent the last few years of your life so caught up in trying to

graduatethatthere'sagoodchanceyoubypassedalltheroadsthatcould'veledyoutohavemore

thanadegreetokeepyouwarmatnight.Adegreeinasubjectyouloveyetmayneverloveyouback.

Asubjectthatmayneverearnitskeepforallthemoneyyou'vethrownatit.Wellonthatdepressing

note, wish me luck. Art History with an emphasis on the Renaissance Era sounds easier than it

actuallyis.Let'swishforanAonthistestsoIcanactuallyenjoyflunkingPrinceKellanoutofhis

datetonight.

Kellan

Iadjustthecollaronmynavy-bluesuitjacketoncemore.“Adate,Kris.It'sthethingyouusedto

takeyourwifeonbeforesittinginfrontofthetelewithabottleofwinedidthetrick.”

“Fuckoff,”hehuffs.“Westillgoout.”

Perhapstheydo.I'mnottypicallyaroundtoactuallyknowtheirdaytodayschedule.I'mnot

usuallyaroundlongerthanIeverhavetobe.

“Who'stheunfortunatevictimthisevening?Actress?Model?PrimeMinster'sgreatniece?”

“Thestatesdon'thaveaPrimeMinster,idiot.”

“Oh I'm the idiot? When we were in school you could barely name five states in America let

aloneremembertheyhadaPresidentandnotaPrimeMinister.”

What can I say? Geography became my favorite subject the minute I was allowed off the

islandunsupervised.

“Bythewaymycommentwasajoke-”

“Notagoodone,”Iwhisper.

“But the way you redirected the conversation has me curious. That's not the way you typically

handlethatquestion.”

Insteadofdenyinghisaccusation,Islidemywalletintomypocket,grabmywatchtoputon,and

motionmyheadforSwisstoknowit'stimetoheadout.

“Infact,younormallycan'twaittobragaboutwhoyou'reabouttobag,”hecontinuesonasifhe's

actuallydeducingsomething.

WhichyouandIbothknowhe'snot.There'snothingtheretosortout.She'sjustnotoneof

thetypeshe'slisted,andit'smorefuntopicturehisbrainrunningonasqueakyhamsterwheelthan

tolethimresteasy.Ha.OfcourseI'manasshole.I'mtheyoungerbrother.It'swhatwedo.

“What'swrongwithher?Doesshehaveanextranippleorgoldteeth?Perhapssixtoesshehides

poorlyinherhighheels?”

Hisdescriptionsscrunchmyface.“NowIknowit'spastyourbedtime.You'restartingtosound

insane.”

“Yetyoudidn'tdenyanyofthose.”

“Whyareyoustillup?”Ifastenmywatchwhilewalking.“It'saftermidnight.Don'tyouandthe

missesusuallyhavearomp,sometea,andthenturninpromptlyatten?”

Kristophergrouses,“Can'tbelieveIactuallylookforwardtothosenights.”

TheelevatordoorscloseandIask,“You'reserious?Youenjoythat?”

“Iknowit'shardtowrapyourheadaround,Kellan,sincepintinducedcomasareyourfavorite-”

“Sometimesvodka-”

“Butyes.Ienjoynights where the only things I have to truly care about are getting my beautiful

wifeoffandhavingherfavoritetypeofteatomakeafterward.”

Sensing what's bothering him, I give Swiss a quick glance, and question, “Do we need to talk

alone?”

“No,”heletsoutaheavysigh.“No.It'sfine.It'llbefine.Italwaysis,moreorless.However,I

willsay,fatherhasdeniedyourproposaloncemoreforsharingatthisseason'sannualbrunch.”

Four times a year several socially privileged countries get together to compare tiaras and

diamondcufflinksoratleastI'massumingsinceI'veneveractuallybeeninvitedtoattendoneby

our father. He swears it would be social embarrassment that we would never recover from as a

country.Yes.HeisjustasoverlydramaticasKristopher.Wheredoyouthinkheinheriteditfrom?

Believe it or not, generally speaking, it's always been the women who are the calm, level headed

ones in this family. Correction. Somewhat level headed. Soph did demand we stop serving figs at

everybreakfastbycoveringtheminhotsaucewhenshethoughtnoonewaswatching.Anyway,these

gatherings are held and multiple financial as well as social opportunities are presented right

alongsidethegarlicroastedredpotatoes.We'retalkinginvestmentchancesforpersonalgain. New

companiesdeveloping.Oldcompaniesthat'llbeupforbuyingandrevamping.Charitiesandother

programsthatwarrantattention,attentionthatifjusttherightamountofpeoplegiveenoughofit

to,couldtremendouslymakeahugefuckingdifference.Likemynon-profitforexample.

IclampmyjawshutasIwalkoutoftheelevatorwithSwissonmyheels.

“Don'tpout,Kellan,”mybrotherinsists.“Ipushedforitthistime.Ireallydid.Hejust-”

“Wentwithyourproposalinstead?”

Hissilenceisalltheadmissionnecessary.

And this is where actual sibling rivalry is an issue. You see, if it's what the oldest prince

wantsversustheyounger,theoldestwins.Theoldesthasmoretoloseorgain.Theoldestactually

matters. Why else do you think it's so easy for me to get away whenever I've had enough of the

palacewalls?FuckwhoeverIwantwithlittletonoscoldings?

“He's....He'shavingSophandIattendthisyear.Hebelievesnowisanidealtimetointroduceus

tothecustomsandbeginthetransitionoftrustingthenextKenningstongeneration.”

Theinformationisn'tsurprisingnorisitcomforting.

“Perhapsforthesummer-”

“Don'tbother,”ImumbleatthesametimeSwisspullsoutintotraffic.

“Kellan-”

“I actually do need to go.” My eyes travel out the window to the various mixture of people

strollingby.Ispotacoupleatthecornercoffeeshopoutsidebundledtogether.Thewinterwindkicksup

andhetugsherincloser.Thesimpleactionactuallycausesmetosmile.

MyfatherusedtodothattomymotherallthetimewhenIwaslittle.Allheeverwantedwas

toprotecther.Krisusedtotellmestoriesofhowhorriblehewaswhenshewaspregnantwithme.

Thewayhehadtobetheonetotendtoherneeds.Howallthatmatteredtohimwasherhappiness.

Notthecrown.Nothissocialexpectations.Noteventhedisapprovalofhisfatherforputtingmom's

healthneedsabovehisown.Eventuallytheoverwhelmingneedtocareforher,transferredtous.At

least until she died. Then he managed to return to the Kenningston tradition of being a shitty

parent.

Afteralongstretchofsilence,Kristopherquietlysays,“Younevermentionedwhoyouweregoing

outwithtonight.”

“Anartstudent.”

There'sanoddshufflingnoisebeforehesnaps,“What?!”

Hissurprisereturnsmysmirk.

AtleastIknowI'llalwaysmattertoKris.Betterthannothing.

“Didyou...Didyoumakeabetonthiswoman?”

“Whydopeoplekeepassumingthat?”

“Because why else would you go with an art student? You literally had a Hollywood starlet in

yourbedaweekago.”

“Hadheronherkneestoo,butIdon'thearyoumentioningthat.”

There'salowgroanfromtheotherendofthephone.

Ichucklejustasthesightofherapartmentcomplexcomesintoview.“Sleepwell,bigbrother.I

haveadatetoplease.”

“Stayoutofthepapers,Kellan.”

“Nopromises.”

Iendthecallandleanclosertothewindowinanattempttogetabetterlookatthefigurewho

appearstobewaitingoutsideofherbuilding.Withonehandstillonthewheel,Swissbeginstoreachfor

hisweapon,andcommands,“Sir,bepreparedto-”

AllofasuddenthepersonbeginstowavefranticallyandIcan'thelpbutsmile.

Swiss quickly arrives at the same conclusion I have, parks alongside the curb, and unlocks the

doors.Beforehehasachancetooffer,IgivehimasmallpatontheshouldertolethimknowIcanhandle

openingherdoor.

You'redamnrightI'magentleman.

Themomentthedoorisopen,IimmediatelydrinkinthefaceandfigureI'vebeenthinkingabout

constantly.

But it's difficult not to. She's absolutely beautiful. Even in jeans and a sweater she's

managestoenslavemyattention.Itdoesn'tmatterthatthey'refadedwithpaintstainsandacouple

of holes. Do you see how they hug her hips? Expose the curves down below? How the hell could

anyoneresistwantingtopeelthoseoff?Thenthere'sthefittedtightblacktop.Thewayit'sclinging

to her ample chest that she doesn't want just anyone exploring with their eyes or hands. That's

definitelyachangeofpacefromthewomenItypicallycomeacross.Nothingbeatstheplayfulsmile

plasteredonherfacethough.Lookingatthat.....feelslikeI'mhome.OhGod.ThisisexactlywhyI

shouldnevertalktoKristopherdirectlypriortoadate.He'smakingmesoft.

Ifoldmyarmsacrossmychest.“I'mfeelingoverdressed.”

Briesimplysmiles.“You'reontime.I'mimpressed.”

Withashrug,Istate,“Youstrikemeasthetypeofwomanwhowouldhaveconsideredoneminute

over,oneminutetoolate.”

“Smartman.”

“Acompliment?That'snew.”

Sherollshereyes.“Iwon'tmakeahabitofit.”

“Whyareyouwaitingoutside?”Iwaveahandtowardsthevehicleforhertogetin.“It'snotvery

warmout.”

Brie slides her body past mine at the same time she says, “Rather get pneumonia than have my

roommateandherboyfriendmeetyou.”

Ishutthedooroncewe'rebothinside.“You'reembarrassedtobeseenwithme.That'safirst.”

“Don'tworry,”shesoftlystarts,“I'msurethere'llbeasecond.”

ThecommentcausesSwisstochuckleaswellasme.

Whyanartstudent?Becauseshe'smorefunthananyoftheothersandwe'veonlybeenon

thisdatefortwominutes.

Mybodyguardglancesoverhisshoulder.“Whereareweheadedmiss?”

“TheTervinEventCenter.Doyouknowwherethatis?”

Henods,turnsbackaround,andputsthecarindrive.

“How'dyoudoonyourtest?”Iaskreceivingasurprisedlookinreturn.Whenshedoesn'tanswer

orexplainwhytheexpression,Iaddanotherquestion.“DidIsaysomethingwrongalready?”

“Just...kindashockedyouremembered.”

“Whywouldn'tI?”

“I don't know...because you probably have more important things to think about like running a

countryorsomething?”

“Titlesandbullshit,remember?”

“Ijustassumedyouwerebeingoversimplistic.”

“I wasn't,” I sigh, desperate to change the subject. “Besides, that test was the only reason you

allowedmetosaveyouinyourmomentofcrisis.”

Hergagmakesmesnicker.“Prettysureyoucausedmyrandommomentofcrisis.”

Honestly didn't. Luck was just on my side. Probably pre-paying me back for my father

denyingmyproposal.Again.

“No.Justbenefited.”

“Justblackmailed,”shebitesback.

Afteranothersmalllaugh,Iaskagain,“Thetest?How'dyoudo?”

“Wonderingifyou'reonadatewithsomeonewhoonlydoeswellbecauseofadifferentkindof

brain?”

The sexual implication has my mind turning that direction despite the fact I know she's still just

trollingforafight.“Doyou?Areyouheadoftheclass?”

Herjawdrops.“Howdareyou-”

“Defend myself?” I angle my body so my back is braced against the window and we're face to

face.“Don'tgetmewrong,Brie.Iappreciateanyonewhocandeliveragutcheckaswellastheytakeone,

butyou'reaimingfortheboysandthat'snotquitefair.”

Shepressesherlipsfirmlytogether.

“IknowyouthinkI'maroyalasshole-”

“Sofarsotrue-”

“Butthere'salittlemoretomethanthat.”Seeinghershouldersdropinretreat,Iadd,“Keepthe

punchescoming,love,butatleastmakethefightjust.”

HerheavilyguardednaturemakeseverytriumphIhavesomuchmoreworthit.Halfthefun

isinthearguingandtheotherprovingherwrong.Thenagain,Ilikebeingprovenwrongaswell.

Unliketheothersshe'sengagingapartofmethatdoesn'tgetmuchattentionoutsideofmybrother

andSophia'sverballashes.

Asmalllullpassesbeforeshestates,“IthinkIpassed.”

Unexpectedsuccessswellsmychest.“Whatwasiton?”

“Boringartcrap,”shesnips.“Paraphrasingforyou.Youknow,sinceallartisdreadful.”

Themockingofmyaccentgrabsachucklefromme.“Wasthatyourbestaccent?What'dyoudo?

Spend the afternoon watching Chris Hemsworth films only to realize too late he's Aussie and nowhere

nearDoctenn?”

Brie'sexpressionoscillatesbetweenfrustrationandfluster.“Myaccentwasn'tthatbad!”

“Itwashorrific.Almostasifyouhadapup'schewtoywedgedinyourmouth.”

Sheleansoverandpegsmeinthearm.

“Ou!”

“Bethankfulitwasabovethebelt.”

Itdidn'tactuallyhurtbutIamsurprisedshehitme.Can'tsayI'vehadafemaletakeaswing

atmesincemylastyearinlacrosse.Longstorythere.

“Youstruckroyalty.”

“Istruckyou.You'relikedietroyalty.Itdoesn'tcount,”hercountergetsusbothlaughingagain.

Ishakemyhead.“Whatwasthetestover?”

“ArtHistoryoftheRenaissanceEra.Thiswasjustabasicnamestophilosophiestest.”

“You'reright.Thatwouldboreme.”Whenshescowlsoncemore,Ilightlylaughinresponse.“To

befair,I'mnotafanofanysortofhistory.Artorotherwise.”

“Shocking,”Briemocks.“Whatdoyoulikethen?Besidessports.”

“Howdidyou-”

“Luckyfratboy,mindlessjockkindaguess,”shesneers.

“Ienjoymusic.Occasionallythetheatre.”

“Howaboutonamoreintellectuallevel?”

“Environmentaleffectsonadolescents.”

Hermouthbecomesagapeyetagain.

IdoenjoyhavinghermakethatfaceandnotonlybecauseIenjoytheideaofslidingmycock

betweenherlips.

Pleasedwithmyself,Iglanceoutthewindowjustaswepullintothelineattheeventcenter.My

eyesreadandrereadthesignrepeatedly.Certainwe'reinthewrongareaoratleastonthewrongnight,I

turntoallowoureyesmeet.“MonsterTruckMayhem?We'regoingtomonstertruckshow?”

Shebattlestheurgetosmile.“Problem?”

Iglancedownatmyattireandstate,“Yousaid,dresstoimpress.”

“Yes. But I never specified who your attire would need to impress.” Her expression becomes

victorious.“NexttimeIadviseyoutogetalltheinformationbeforemakingwardrobechoices.”

Swiss pulls up to the parking lot attendant who immediately asks for payment. Brie makes a

motiontoreachinherpocketwhenIceasehermovements.“I'vegotit.”AfterhandingSwisscashfrom

my own wallet, I state to her, “This game isn't over.” Shedding my suit jacket, I drape it over the seat

besideus.“Andsinceyoudon'tplayfair,neithershallI.”

“Wasthatathreat?”

“Itwasawarning.”

Brie'seyeflashameshofintrigueandexcitement.Shehesitatestodragherattentionawayfrom

measIadjustthesleevesofmywhitebuttondownshirt.

Do not remind me how ridiculous I look at this moment. I do wish I had different shoes

aboveallelse.Thesewingtipswillbeabsolutelyruined.Ifyou'llexcuseme,Ihaverevengetobe

plottingonthisbeautiful,brilliantwoman.

“I've only got two tickets.” Her announcement shifts Swiss in his seat. “There might be more

ticketsavailablebut-”

“It'sfine,”Iendtheconversationbeforeitcangetthedirectionitwasheaded.“Swisscanwaitin

thevehicle.Thisisn'texactlyahighthreatsituation.OtherthanthefactI'mwearingaSt.Valmontesuitat

amonstertruckshow,Ihighlydoubtanyonewillgivemeasecondglance.”

Mybodyguard'smouthcracksopentoargue,yetseesthesternexpressiononmyfaceandcloses.

Swiss,whileterrifyingbasedonappearance,happenstoberemarkablyunderstanding.He's

masteredtheartofreadingasituationanddeclaringifmyrequestforspaceisacceptableortobe

ignored.Mostofthetimeweagreeonhowtohandlemypublicpresence.It'sveryrarehepullsthe

'yourfatherdecrees'card.

“I'llhavemyphone.IfIneedanything,I'llcall.”

“Don't worry, Army Man.” Brie leans forward towards him. “I won't let him wander into the

middleofthearenatogetrunoveroranything.Evenifabigpartofmedoeswantthat.”

Heresiststheurgetolaughbutgivesintotheonetosmile.

NotsureIenjoythembeingonateamagainstme.

Swissdropsthetwoofusasclosetotheentranceoftheeventcenteraspossible.

Themomentwe'reheadedtowardsthedoors,Brieasks,“Doesitbotheryoutoconstantlyhavea

babysitter?Imeanyouclearlyneedone-”

“Clearly,”Iecho.

“-but does it ever irritate you? Does it ever annoy the hell out of you that you can't just walk

aroundthegrocerystorewithoutanextrapairofeyesonyou?”

Heroddphrasingkicksupthecornerofmylip.“Yougetusedtoit.”

“Ah.Butthatwasnotthequestion.Youreallyareaterriblelistener.”

“I'mafantasticlistener.HowelsewouldIknowthedifferenceofyourbreathingchangingbecause

you’reflusteredwithmeanditchangingbecauseyou'refantasizingaboutme.”

Briepinsmewithadisgustedlook.

“Youdogetusedtoit.Andhonestly,ithardlyregistersanymore.I'vehadsecuritydetailssinceI

wasindiapers,sonoitdoesn'tbotherme.They'resortoflikefamilyafterawhileandasyoucansee,

youdeveloparelationshipthatallowsanamountofrespectablespacewhenthetimeisneeded.Believe

me, having Swiss around is much better than Vincent, the guard I've been ditching since I was 15. He's

rarelyasunderstanding.”

Shehums,“Ican'timaginehavingaghostovermyshoulder.”

“It's one thing to become accustom to it and completely another when you don't know anything

else.”

Guards and details are mundane accessories at this point in my existence. From daily

activitiesintheoutsideworldtodating,they'veneverreallyregisteredasanissue.Withthatsaidthe

womenI'vespentthemajorityofmytimearoundalsohavetheirowneyesandearslurkingaround

them.Brie'snotthefirstbutsheisoneofthefewwhoaren'tunderawatchfuleye.Yes,I'msurein

somesubconsciouspartofmybrainIenjoythatfact.

Atthedoors,Briepresentsthemwithherphonewhereshehastheticketswaitingtobescanned.

Afterward,theoversizedwomangivesmyattirealongstrangestareyetkeepsheropiniontoherselfand

motionsforustomovealong.

Oncewe'reinside,Iquestion,“Whichway?”

“We'regonnaheadtotheleft,butfirstI'mgoingtogetsomethingtoeat.I'mstarving.”Sheglances

overhershoulderatme.“Andyou'reprobablygoingtowanttopickupsomeearbuds.Shitgetspretty

loud.”

“Youdon'tneedany?”

“Icameprepared.”Shesmuglysmiles.

Theurgeforpaybackincreases.“I'mgoingtosnagapair.I'llmeetyouinline?”

She nods and migrates towards the closest concession stand. Quicker than I expect, I manage to

purchaseapairofearplugsandmaneuvermywaybackintothelinewhereBrieseemstobeunableto

decidewhatshewantsbytheexpressiononherface.

“Sowhatarewehavingforourfirstdate?”Iask,shovingtheobjectintomypocket.

“Onlydate,”shemumbleshercorrection.Hereyesgravitatetomine.“Youlikenachos?”

I give the list of toppings a read. “Over processed liquid cheese, beans from a can, and

questionablebeef.What'snottolike?”Whenthelinebeginstomove,allowingustoorder,Iadd,“It'sall

fine.Justnojalapenos.”

Oureyesmeetagain.“Youallergic?”

“No.”

Brieturnsbacktothewomanwaitingandstates,“OneorderofMonsternachos,monstersizewith

extrajalapenos.”

HowdidImissthatcoming?

“One monster order of popcorn. And two waters.” She leans over and drops her voice to an

exaggeratedwhisper.“Asyoucansee,someoneisclearlytryingtowatchtheirfigure.”

The head motion my direction makes the workers behind the counter laugh alongside the couple

behindus.

“Twenty-twodollarseven,”thewomanannounces,whichiswhenBrielooksatme.

PromptlyIquestion,“Youdon'texpectmetopaydoyou?DidMistressLaceyforgettomention

thatallaccommodationsduringmyservicearetopaidforbytheclientrentingmytime?”

Brie'seyesenlargeasitseemsshe'srenderedspeechless.

“Escortsdon'tpayfortheirownmeals,”Ipretendtobeinshock.Suddenly,Isaytothosewhoare

listening, “Was it not obvious? I mean why else would someone wear something like this to an event?

Miscommunicationbetweenherandmyemployer.”TheeavesdroppersnodtheirunderstandingandIlet

myeyesmeetBrie'senragedones.“Obviously.”

Herbafflementremainsyetthecashierspeaksagain.“Ma'am.That'llbetwenty-twodollars.”

Brie glares at me one final time, turns towards the woman, pulls out cash from her pocket, and

offers it. After returning her change, the workers behind the counter hand us our refreshments, laughs

tryingtobecontainedundertheirbreaths.

Themomentwe'renolongerinline,shemuttersinanirkedtone,“Un-fuckingbelievable.”

“Saysthewomanwhotrickedmeintowearinga4,000dollarsuittoabloodytruckshow.”

“AlittledifferentthanconvincingtotalstrangersIpaidforyou!”

Seeingthefrustrationonherfaceforcesasmilebackontomine.“Toldyouitwouldnotbefair.”

Brieabruptlystops,looksupatme,andgrowls,“Thisisn'tover,DukeDoucheBag.”

“WouldnotdreamofitVanessavanGoghDuchYourself.”

The sassy expression I crave reappears. “Not sure what's more ludicrous, the fact you think for

evenamomentIwouldeverwannabeduchessorthefactyoucouldturnafamousartistintoanalmost

cleverinsult.”Briehumstoherselfandstartswalkingagain.“Comeon.We'rerightaroundthecorner.”

Iadjustmygriponthepopcornandfollowcheerfullybehindher.

You didn't seriously think she was that upset over what I did, did you? Ha. I haven't even

known this girl that long yet knew that was nowhere near the line of too far. Rest assured, I

wouldn'tgothere.Theenjoymentisnotfoundinhurtingher.I'mnotamonster...

Duringourclimbupthreelevelsofstairsforthetoprow,we'rebumpedintobyoutofcontrolkids

tryingtodrivetheirtoytrucks,overenthusiasticfanswhoarealreadyslightlyinebriated,anddispleased

ushershavingtoconstantlyredirectpeopletotheiractualseatsasopposedtotheonestheywishedwere

theirs.

Theyarejustverylargevehicles.Peoplecan'ttrulybethisexcited,canthey?

BriedropsherselfdownintotheendseatandIsitintheonebesideher.

Unabletoresistteasing,Isighwithfalseconcern,“ShouldIhaveboughtgum?Youknow,tohelp

keepourearsfrompoppingatsuchhighaltitudes?”

Shegivesmeaphonysmirk.“Keepitupandyourdrycleaningbillwillbealmostasridiculously

pricedasthesuititself.”

Ireachforachip,shakingthejalapenosfree.“Sowhoweretheseticketsoriginallyfor?”

“Mydad,”Brieanswersabitofsadnessinhertone.“TheywereaChristmaspresentfromme.

Actually,theywerehisonlyChristmaspresentfromme.It'snotlikeIhaveashittonofextracashlaying

around,soIsavedandgrabbedthebestonesIcould.Iknowtheydon'tfeellikemuch,buttheyweren't

cheap.”

AfterswallowingmybiteIask,“Whycouldn'thecome?”

“Hadtowork.Someonecalledin,andhehadtocover.”

“What'shedo?”

“Grocery store manager. Nothing glamorous like being king of a country, but people still need

him.Toomuchsometimes.”

Thesidecommentisn'tmissed,butIdon'ttakethebaittofightback.

Toldyou.Notabouthurtingher.It'sabouthumoring.

“Youtwoclose?”Iquestionfinallyreceivingherattentiononme.

“You could say that.” Her smile softens. “Two daughters and one takes after his beer and

cheeseburgerlovingwayswhiletheothertakesafterourmotherwithherloveofSushiandspritzers.”

“Gladyou'rethe'AllAmerican'girl.”

Shesnickersbeforesheasks,“Why?You'renotintotheothertype?”

“I'mintoyou.”

Mycommentcausesasmallflushtoherface.

Rather than continue the conversation the direction she's anticipating, I reach for another chip.

“Tellme.You'retheyoungerone,aren'tyou?”

Aplayfulsmileforms.

“Youweretroublegrowingup.”

Sheleansforwardandwhispers,“Still.Am.”

Myeyesstealaglimpseofherwetlipsandwhisper,“Obviously...”

Briewinks,reachesintomylapforthepopcorn,andthrowsahandfulatme.Shestartslaughing

andIimmediatelyjoinher,throwingahandfulatherinreturn.Allofasuddenamantakesthespotinthe

centerofthearenawhiletheannounceroverthespeakersindicatestheshowisabouttobegin.

With my eyes plastered forward once more to admire the dirt covered area, I ask, “And what

exactlyamIsupposedtodohere?”

“Yellandscreamwhentheydocoolshit.Prettybasic.Youknow.Likeyou.”

Igiveheranotherglance,whichiswhenshewinks.“Isthereaparticularcar-”

“Truck-”

“Thatyoupreferwecheerharderfor?”

“Mydad'sfavoriteisTheBlueDevil.”

“BlueDevilformybrowneyeddevilitis.”Theremarktugsthecornersofherlipsupwardasshe

turnsbackaround.

ThehostbeginshisopeningspeechandIwigglefreemyearplugsinpreparation.Myattention

helplessly swings between the pending event and the playful woman flicking popcorn obnoxiously my

direction.ThebehaviorischildishyetIcan'tstopmyselffromrespondingtoit.Tossingpiecesintothe

hair bun high on her head. Smearing cheese on her glasses for smearing some on my pants. Turning the

jalapenosintohockeypucksinsidethenachocontainer.Bythetimetheshowisactuallystarting,we're

coveredinwhatshould'vebeendinnerandlaughingsohardmysidehurts.

ThisisexactlytheoppositeofgrowinguplikeKristopherwants.Butwhere'stherealharm

infoodfightingandlaughingwithsomeonewhoisenjoyingthemomentjustasmuchasyouare?

Whydo'adultdates'havetoconsistofmealswithheftypricetagsandconversationsaboutpolitics

thatneitherofyoureallycareabout?Shouldn'tlifebeenjoyedaslongasnooneisgettingharmed?

For the next eighty minutes, Brie and I are on the edge of our seats, hollering at mind blowing

heightsreached,highfivingoverthetotaldestructionofvehicles,andswattingeachother'shandsoutof

the way during attempts made to grab more food. Between the special effects to enhance the show and

crowdparticipationtomakeusallfeellikewe'reapartoftheeventtoo,itbarelyregistershowquickly

timehasflown.Astheevening'sfinalsongplaysandpeoplebegintomovetowardstheexits,itstrikesme

likeasharpstabintheside,justhowmuchIdon'twantthistoend.Notyet.

Briestands,dustsofftheremainingpopcorn,andcheerfullysqueaks,“Thatwasawesome!”

Herenthusiasmisenthralling.“Hellyeah.Whentheonethatlookedlikeadinosaur-”

“Dyno-mite.”

Don'tlookatmelikethat.Ididn'tnamethedamnthing.

“Yeah.Thatmomentitlookedlikehewasgoingtoendupbackwardthendidn't-”

“OhmyGod,right!”Sheshakesherhandsinexcitement.“Thatwassoscary!”

“Ihavetoagree.”

Brieoffersmeanothersmilebeforestating,“Weshouldgetoutofhere.Parkinglot'sgonnabea

bitchtogetthrough.”

“Yeah...”Ireluctantlyreply.

Oureyeslockandtomysurprisethelonginginhereyesmatchesmine.

Perhapsshedoesn'twantthisnighttoendeither?

“I'llsendSwissamessageoncewe'reoutsideandsomeofthecrowdhasbeguntofade.Makehis

joblessdifficulttoreachus.”Hopeful,Iadd,“Thatisifyoudon'tmindwaiting.”

Brieslipsherhandsintoherbackpockets.“Idon'tmind.It'sreallynotasfrigidoutthereasyou

think.”

Her poor attempt at an accent scrunches my face. “You have got to stop that. It's like nails on a

chalkboard.”

Shegivesmethefinger.

“Notonthefirstdate...”Istand.“Notevenifyoubeg.”

“Whowould,”shescoffsandspinsaroundonherheelstostartforthestairs.

“You'dbesurprised.”

“Iwouldn't.”Unexpectedly,Briestopsandturnstome.“Andyou'refullofshit.Youwouldtotally

sleepwithachickonthefirstdate.”

“NeversaidIwouldn't.”

“Youjustdid!”

“No...”Iinsistcatchinguptoher.“IimpliedIwouldn'twithyou.”

Watchingtheinternaldebateoverthenotionofitbeingacomplimentorinsultmerelymakesme

smilewider.

It'sobviouswhichitis.

Brie starts to speak but immediately decides against it. Instead, she turns back around, and

continuesourdescenttowardstherestofthecrowdfilteringoutoftheroom.Whiletheprocesstogetto

ourseatswasdifficult,theonetogetoutofthebuildingitselfistwiceashard.Betweentheoverhyped

andoverexhausted,thecrowdseemseasilyunstable.Duringourattempttomakeittotheoutsidedoor,

someone shoves past Brie, knocking her body into mine. Instinctively, my hand tugs her closer into my

protection.Iswallowtheurgetosmileattheaction.Withhertightlyatmyside,Islipussmoothlythrough

thegaps,eventuallyguidingustofreedom.

Outside,Ileadustooneofthepicnictableswhereweparkourselveswithassesonthetableand

feetonthebench.

“Thatwasanightmare,”Briehuffs.

“It'sjusttheendofthenight.Peoplearetired.Cranky.Readytogethome,sotheycanhavesome

restbeforeworkinthemorning.”

Shegroansattheword.

“Whatdoyoudoforwork?”

Briehesitatestoanswer.“I'malunchladyataprivateschool.”

She's....kidding.IsthisaweirdAmericanjokeIdon'tunderstand?

Hereyesmeetmine.“Seriously.”

Ipressmyfisttomymouthtoblockthechuckle.

“Oh...Shutup,”shebites.“Notallofusarejustpaidtobeprettyandsocial.Someofusactually

havetoworkforwhattheyhave.”

Now the defensive one, I counter, “I work for what I have too. Make no mistake about that.

Handoutsmaycomewithmyname,butthatdoesn'tmeanItakethem.”

Silencefallsbetweentothetwoofusasourattentionshiftselsewhere.

Thatwentpoorly...

I give the back of my neck a small rub and attempt to make amends. “For the record, you're the

hottestlunchladyI'veevermet.”

Brieletsoutasmallgiggle.“I'mprobablytheonlylunchladyyou'veevermet.”

“No.Igrewupinboardingschool.I'vemetandlearnedtolovemyfairshareoflunchladies.”

Thewordseemstopartherlipsinsurprise.

Not that I was indicating I am in love with her...I just...How do our conversations keep

taking wrong turns? Is this a normal date problem to have because I've never had it before now.

Beforeher.

“Do you wear a hairnet?” I tease, thankful when her demeanor changes again. “Tell me. Is it

pink?”

“Didtheyspitinyourmashpotatoesandcallitgravy?BecauseIwould.”

AlaughescapesandIretort,“No.Theyadoredme.I'mquitecharming.”

Brieattemptstoarguewithastraightface.“Totherestoftheworldmaybe...”

Myeyebrowsliftincuriosity.“Butnottoyou?”

Her bottom lip momentarily slips between her teeth. She hums softly and turns away, her sweet

refusaltoanswerendearing.

“I'mintownforaweek-”

“Soyou'vementioned,”sheinterjects,herattentionatthehonkingvehiclespoorlymovingaround

theparkinglot.

“ButIwanttoseeyouagain.”Thistimehereyesmovetomine.“Havedinnerwithmetomorrow

night?”

“Why....AreyouplottingsomeweirdpaybackthingfortheunconventionalplansImadetonight?”

“Actuallyno,”Ideny.“TonightwasmorefunthanI'vehadinareallylongtime.Honestly.”

Sounds like a line but I swear it isn't. Sex and gambling is definitely entertaining, but not

quite like this. This was effortless. The smiles genuine and not liquor coerced. Our conversations

andlaughswereinnocent,notanattemptatmanipulationtogetsomethingoutofoneanother.It

wasallratherrefreshing.

“Youshouldgetoutmore,”sheteaseswithalaugh.

“So.Whatdoyouthink?Dinnertomorrownight?”

BriebattleswhatIassumeisthedesiretosayyes.

I'lladmit.It'spartoftheturnon.I'venevermetawomanquitesodeterminedtotellmeno

allthetime.Tocravethecreationofachallengeforthesakeofcapability.Yes.Ilikeachallengeas

muchasthenextassholewithalistofnamestocrossoff,butthisisdifferent.Thisissomuchmore

thansomechickwhoispretendingnottobeinterested.Shehasmeactuallyconvincedattimesshe's

not.Atothers?It'simpossibletodeny.ThiswomanmakesmemadandIcraveit.

Suddenlysheshouts,“No!Youcan'tkeepborrowingmymake-upandthennotreturningit!Idon't

carehowhottheguyis!Ifhereallylovesyouforyou,he'llloveyouwithoutit.”

Okay...Idon'tcravethat.

Eyes from the dispersing crowd direct themselves our direction. Some sets are disapproving

otherscomedicallysurprised.

With a heavy sigh, I look back at Brie just as she smiles brightly. “We can do dinner tomorrow

night.”

“Ohyoucan'tpayforadate,butI'mclearlygay?”

“Clearly.”Shewinks.“Imean...haveyouseenyoursuit?”

Her infectious smile makes me shake my head. “Don't worry. I'll make sure to find my own

mascaratoweartomorrownight.”

“Good,”shegigglesagain.“ShouldIwearminetoo?”

“If you want.” I shrug. “Won't tell you what to wear, just advise you, it won't be a pint and

cheeseburgers.”

BriesmilessecondsbeforemycellphonebeginstovibratewithacallfromSwiss.

I answer only to immediately receive an ear full for not letting him know we were out sooner.

However,histantrumfallsondeafears.MyeyeslingerinBrie's,thankfulsheagreedtoseemeagain.

I'veonlygotsevendaysuntilIflyout.Iplantooccupyasmuchasmytimewithherasshe'll

letme.Doubtshe'llmakeiteasy,whichwilljustmakeitmorefun.Mybrothershouldworryless

aboutmyfaceinthepapersandmoreabouttheartstudenteffortlesslyconqueringmythoughts.

Brie

Iplacethecurlingirondownonthecounterandgivemyreflectiononefinallook.

“Prettygood,”mymother'svoicesaysproudly.

Right?Notthegreatestwhenitcomesthewholewavyhair,shapeyourfacelook,butIthink

Inaileditthistime.

“Now,whoistheguyworthallthistrouble?”

Idropmyfocusbacktothecellphonescreenwherewearevideochatting.

“He'snotworthanytrouble.”

He'snot!This...Thiswholethingismerelymywayofshowcasingwhathecan'thave.

“Hehastobe.Ican'trecallthelasttimeyouwentonadateoreventhelasttimeyoucaredenough

todomorewithyourhairthanasimpleup-doforone.”

Blowbackofhavingahairgenieforamother.Constantlycriticizedformyloveofthebasic

ponytailandeasybun.

I quickly devise a way to avoid further interrogation on the subject. Calling out to no one, I

question.“What'sthat?”Afterasmallpause,Ilookbackintothecamerawithasympatheticlook.“Sorry,

mom.Gottago.Jovineedshelpbringinginthegroceries.”

“She does not,” my mother sighs. “You're as bad as your father about faking distractions.” She

offersmeasweetsmile.“Whoeverheis,Ihopeyouenjoyyourself.”

“Thanksmom.”

“Seeyoutomorrowfordinner?”

“Yeah.”

“Good.Youcantellmeabouthimthen.”ShewinksandendsthecallbeforeIcanargue.

NoneedtoinformmeIgottraitsfrombothofmyparents.

IpreparetodropmycellphonebackonmybathroomcounterwhenInoticeanunreadtext.

PrinceOneNightstand:Changeofplans.Sendingacartopickyouup.

Me:Attirethesame?

PrinceOneNightstand:ClothingisalwaysOPTIONAL.

Irollmyeyesatthetext.

ProblemisattimesIwantittobeoptional.HowpatheticamI?!Almosteverythingoutof

hismouthiscoatedinarroganceormakeshimsoundlikethepompousassholewebothknowheis.

ForsomereasonthoughIcan'tresistnotonlytheurgetoknockhimdownafewpegs,butgetting

toknowthemanheisoncehe'sthere.TheoneIimaginetherestoftheworlddoesn'tknowexists.

The one I doubt would interest them if they did. And before you start down that path, no, I don't

havethewholeletthebadboychangeformecomplexmostwomenphasethroughatsomepointin

theirlife.Ijustenjoyusgoingtitfortat.Mostofmyconversationswiththeattractivemembersof

theoppositesexarespentwalkingoneggshellsinanattempttogetaskedoutatall,oronceI'vegot

thedate,topreventthemfromshuttingdowncompletelywhentheyrealizeI'mnotputtingouton

the first night. Like it's a crime to not want to have some random stranger poking around down

there,doinghisbesttoprovehe'sgottalent.Orstamina.Orwhateverskillthelastgirlwhodumped

himsaidhedidn'thave.Ha.Menthinkwomencarrybaggage?Nothingsworsethanaguytryingto

outperformhispastselfbecausesomeonehesleptwithfakedanorgasm...

Myphonevibratesagainwithanothermessage.

PrinceOneNightstand:Howharddidyourollyourprettybrowneyes?

Complimentsshouldn'tgohandandhandwithhisimpressiveabilitytoannoyme.

Me:Hardenoughtoreconsiderthisdinner.

PrinceOneNightstand:Liar.

Ibegintypingareplywhenhebeatsmetoit.

PrinceOneNightstand:AtleastI'mhopingyouare.

Don't swoon when he says shit like that! This is why I have a problem staying away from

him.He'slikeamosquitobitethatIcan'tresistitchingnomatterhowhardItry.Abugbitewitha

sexyassinaccent.Ugh.

PrinceOneNightstand:Seeyousoon.

I drop the phone back on the counter and retreat for my roommate's room. I stumble out of my

bedroom,startledtoseeherandherboyfriendrelaxingonthecouchwithashowaboutclassiccars.

Merrickgrunts,“That'sbarelyfuckingvintage.”

Joviturnsthepageinthebookshe'sreadingcompletelycarelessofhisramblings.

Istrollintotheroomandsigh,“Merrick,youdoknowthepeopleonthetelevisioncan'thearyou,

right?Whentheytalk,they'renottalkingdirectlytoyou.”

Hedoesn'tbotherlookingaway.“That'sagoodthingbecauseiftheydidI'dtellthemtotakethat

pieceofshitand-”

Jovinudgeshiminthesideatthesametimeshelooksatme.“Yourhairlooksamazing...”

“Thanks.”Istrikeapretendproudpose.

Thetwoofusgiggle.“Goingsomewhereimportant?”

If you must know Dr. Judgey, I was not being a bad friend. Just didn't think Kellan was

worth mentioning since this is a one-time thing. No. No. Not a one night stand. Not a one night

slumberparty.Notevenaonenightrubunderthetable.I'mnotthetypeofwomanwhoisokayjust

beingadrivethroughstopandboneifyougetwhatI'msellinghere.

“I...haveadate.”

Suddenly,Merrick'sattentionturnstomewhileJovishutsherbook.Sheslowlyasks,“Awhat?”

“Adate.”

“Withanotherperson?”Merrickchimesin.

Igivehimasharpglare.

“Forgivehim,”hisgirlfriendquietlyinsists.“He'sjustinshock.Likeme.”

“Whyareyoutwoinshock?”

“Youdon'tdate,”theyspeakinunisonlikeawell-rehearsedsitcom.

Theydothatmoreoftenthanpeopleinreallifeshould.It'soneoftheirmanydisgustingly

adorabletraits.

Foldingmyarmsacrossmychest,Iargue,“Idotoo.”

“Intheyearswe'vebeenfriends,I'veknownyoutogoonthreedates.”Jovipinsmewithastern

lookthenrepeats.“Three.”

Uncomfortablewiththeacknowledgmenttomylackoflovelife,Isnip.“Youkeptcount?”

“Preschoolerscancountthathigh,”Merrickbacksher.

“Wellthatexplainsyourabilitytofollowtheconversation.”

Hepreparestosnipbackwhensheliftsahandtostophim.“It'sfinethatyoudon'tdate,Brie.I

alwaysassumedbetweenstudying,working,andhangingoutwithus,youjust...didn'thavethetime.”

Thetruthinherstatementshiftsmyweight.

That'sahugepartofit.Datingdoesn'texactlyfitinwhenyou'reworkingtwopart-timejobs

just to make sure you can afford rent, groceries, and tuition. Still. Hearing my lack of social life

isn'terasinganyofthewoesrelatedtomypendinggraduation.Idon'tevenhaveanythinginthat

departmenttolookforwardtowhentheyfinallystopbillingmetolearn.

“Sowhoishe?”Shegleefullyquestions.

“Heisa....passingmoment,”Ideclareinanuncertainvoice.

It's not because I'm stupid enough to think he's not. It's because the truth is all men who

strollintomyexistenceinthataspectare.GuessI'mreallynobetterthanKellaninthatnature.At

leasttheydon'tallmakeitintomybedlikeIknowhisdo.

“Apassingmoment,”sherepeatsinaskepticaltone.

“Yes.DoyoumindifIborrowoneofyourdresses?I'mprettysureIcansqueezeintoone.”

Shegivesmeasarcasticstare.“Squeezeintoone?We'repracticallythesamesize.”

Sweet little thing I know. My hips are wider and my boobs are bigger, but occasionally we

cansuccessfullyshareclothes.Particularlyiftheystretch.

Insteadofstartinganewargument,Istate,“I'lltakethatasayes.”

JovinodsandIheadforherbedroomatthesameMerrickgrumps,“Seriously,Brie.Whoisthis

guy?”

Hearinghisbigbrothertonemakesmesmile.

Hemaybeyoungerthanme,buthehasnoproblemlettinghisinnerprotectiveolderbrother

qualityshinebright.

OnceI'minherroom,Iheadforherclosest,notansweringhisquestion.

“Doeshegototheuniversity?”Merrick'svoicegetslouder.

“Isheaprofessor?”Jovi'sfollows.

“Whywouldshedateaprofessor?”Hesuspiciouslyasks.“That'sagainstpolicy.”

“Thisfromtheultimaterulebender.”

“Breaker.”

“Howisthatbetter?”

It'snot.Butit'sfunnier.

“ItmeansI'mbetter.”

There'sasmallpausebeforeshesays,“Cocky.”

“Confident.”

IlettheirflirtingfadefrommyearsasIthumbthroughherclothesuntilIspotthedressI'vehadmy

eyeonsinceshefirstboughtit.

Icouldn'taffordit.Gladatleastonceofuscouldbringthisbabyhome.

Withitinmyhands,Iwalkbacktoherbedroomdoor,shutit,andbegintochangeoutofmylounge

clothes.

“Areeitherofusright?”Joviasks,frustrationnowinhervoice.

Iwiggleintothelongsleeveblacklacedress.“No.”

“Ha!”Merrickshouts.

There'salowmurmuredcomebacktooquiettodecipher.

Probablyasexthreat.

Afterditchingmybrafornotcooperatingwiththeplungingneckline,Icrackthedoorandcallto

Jovi.“Canyoucomezipme,please?”

Shegivesherboyfriendonefinalscoldandrushesover.

The moment it's zipped, I give everything an additional adjustment, equally impressive and

thankfulitfitslikeadream.

Jovistepsbackandsmilesbrightly.“Ireallylikethatdressonyou.Thewaythecreamcoloron

the body of the dress compliments your skin is insanely gorgeous. You should add a pair of gold

earrings.”

“Goodcall.”Iswoopupmyclothesintomyarms.“Blackshoesthough?”

Shenodswhilemovingoutofmyway.

Merrickinstantlycroaks.“That'syourdress,baby?”

“Yeah.”

His eyes flash an emotion I'm all too familiar with. He gives me a hard look. “Keep it.” Jovi

squeaksbehindme,butherepeats,“Keepit.Nooneshouldeverseemygirlinsomethinglikethat.”

Asthetwoofusapproachhisdirection,shewhispers,“They'veseenmeinless.”

“Don'tremindme,”hegrousesandyanksherintohislap.

“Jealous.”

“Protective.”

“Overly.”

ThesoundoftheirargumentstopsyetIcontinuetowardsmyroom,desperatetogetawayfromthe

foreplayinmotion.

When'sthelasttimeIhadforeplayinmylife?Doesarguingcountasforeplay?Becauseby

thatmeasurement,KellanandIshouldberoundingthirdbase.IwonderifSirNotchinMyBedpost

is even remotely as good as he thinks he is....I know I have no right to even ponder over that, but

comeon.Heisextremelyattractive,plushehasthiswolfishstarewhenhiseyescaressmycurves,

thathasmewishinglikehellthereputationIassumehehasfromtheGooglesearchheflashedme

yesterday,isoverexaggerated.Iknowit'snot.Hellhehasn'teventriedtodenyitonce.Guessthat's

whywishingispointless.

Afterrummagingaroundmybathroomdrawersforearrings,Igivemyreflectiononelastlook.

Nottoobadfortheartstudentwho'sspentthelasttenyearssofocusedontryingtograduate

soshebasicallyhasnolife.Well...Here'stohopingdinnerdoesagoodjobofhelpingmeforgetthat

littlefactforafewhours.

***

TherideinanupscaletowncartoTheFrostLuxuryHotelissmoothandsoothing.Whilethedrive

isn'tlong,itmanagestogivemeenoughtimetocollectmycomposureandconvincemyselftojustenjoy

theevening.Thedate.Thebriefmomentofpossibleromancewaitingtobeappreciated.Insidethehotel,

I'mimmediatelygreetedbyawomanwhoinsistsIfollowhertomeetKellan.Thetwoofustakeaprivate

elevatorhiddentowardstheback.Onourwayupsheexplainsalittlehistoryaboutthehotel,howthey

frequentlycatertothosewhodesirediscretion,andhowherserviceisonlyprovidedforthosestayingin

thepenthousesuite.

Doubtshe'sactivelytryingtomakemefeellikethehookerreservedforthebillionaire,but

that'swhat'shappening...

WearriveoutsideasetofdoubledoorswhereSwissisonduty.

“ArmyMan,”Igreetwarmly.

“Miss.”Hesayswithanodbeforecrackingthedooropentograntmeaccess.

Islidepasthimandstepfootintoanunexpectedsurprise.Thedimmedroomiscompletelyfilled

withlitcandles.Mostarealongtheedgesonthefloor,butthereisapairontheroundtablethatappears

tobesetfortwo.Myeyesadmiretheotherlittletouchesofintendedromance,likethechillingbottleof

whatIassumeischampagneintheicebucket.Thesprinkledrosepetalsontheground.Thewhitecurtains

pulledbacktoexposetheviewofthecityatnight.

NowI'mfeelingalittletooprettyprettyprincessformyowngood.

Softjazzmusicsauntersthroughmyearsonlysecondsbeforeasharp,clean,enticingsmellfloods

mysystem.Kellanwhispersovermyshoulder,“Youlikeit?”

Ifighttheinstincttomeltfromthesoundofhisvoice.

ThankGodI'mnotwearingunderwear.Theywouldn'tstandachance.

“Isthiswhyyoudidn'tpickmeup?”Iaskashemovesintomylineofvision.“Youweretoobusy

tryingtoburndownahoteltoimpressme?”

Kellan lightly chuckles, slides a hand in his black suit pants pocket, and says, “Are you

impressed?”

Don'tagreeforme!

“Depends,” I start slowly, giving his eyes a minute to finish worshiping me. “How many other

womendoyougothroughthismucheffortfor?”

Hedoesn'thesitate.“None.”

“Bullshit.”

Hiseyesharshlyholdmine.“Idon'thavetotrywithothers.Theysimplytriporslipintomysheets

andthat'sthat.”

Isarcasticallysneer,“Romantic...”

“It doesn't have to be,” he declares defensively. “You judge me for merely enjoying the given

situations.Butit'satwo-personprocess.Imakenofalseclaimsorpromisestothosewhowanderintomy

bed. No delusions of grandeur. No implications that it is anything more than the moment we're sharing.

Expectations conjured up on their own is not my doing. I'm an adult who appreciates sex between

consentingadults.There'snoharminthat.”

Hehasafairpoint.ItjustsohappensIamanotthattype.

Ratherthanadmithe'sright,Iquestion,“Soallthisisjustahugeefforttogetmeintothesack?”

Alookofsadnessgraceshisexpression.“IsthattheonlythingyoucanimagineI'minterestedin?”

“Convincemeotherwise,”Istatesharply.

Kellan's eyes dip down the front of my dress before the corners of his lips pull upward. “With

pleasure.”

Notaphraseheshouldsay...NowallIwantistojointheverylistIshamedhimforhaving.

Heextendshishandformetotake.“Shallwe?”Themomentmyhandisinhishecompliments,

“You look beautiful, by the way. I would've said something sooner but you were busy scolding me for

savingthisdate.”

Iallowhimtoleadustothetable.“Howwasitruined?”

“Originally,Imadereservationforusatthisbistroafewblocksover,”hebeginswhilehelping

meintomyseat.“Somehow,theydoublebookedmeandsomeoneelse,sotheoptionsweretocancelor

wait until eleven for dinner.” Kellan sits in the seat across from mine. “Rather than risk the chance of

givingyouanout,Iarrangedthiswiththehelpoftheconcierge.”

“Whynotjustpickadifferentrestaurant?”

“Idid.Thefivestaroneattachedtothehotel.”

Curiosityleansmebackinmyseat.“Thenwhyaren'twejusteatingthere?”

“Seemed like a smarter idea to eliminate possible pawns in our on-going game of who can

humiliatewho.”

Asmallsnickerproceedsmywhisperedwords,“Wellplayed...”

Kellansmirksproudly.

Anddamnthat'sagoodlook.

Ashereachesforthechillingbottle,Iask,“IsthereamenuformetolookatoramIjustsupposed

totrustyourjudgment?”

Heuncorksit.“Wouldthatbesoterrible?”

“Yes.HowcanItrustamanwhocan'teveneatjalapenosonhisnachos?”

Kellansmirksagain.“Ican.Idon'tliketo.There'sadifference.”

“Not really hearing one.” When he lifts his eyes to mine I make a silly face that receives a

chuckle.“Doyouevenhavenachosinyourcountry?”

“Somethingsimilar,”heinformsatthesametimehefillsmyglass.“They'remadewithpitabread

chips,mashedchickpeas,meltedSwisscheeseandtoppedwitholives.”

Igag.“IthinkIthrewupinmymouthalittlebitthere.”

He shakes his head, fills his own glass, and replaces the bottle. “It's actually quite delicious,

especiallywithapint.”

“Nothingoutofyourmouthsoundedremotelydelicious.”

“Notevenolives?”

“Olivesarelikerejectjalapenos.”

Allofasuddentheplayfuldisagreementisinterruptedbytheconciergewhoisapproachingwitha

tray full of dishes. Gracefully, she places a basket of fresh baked bread, bottle of olive oil, an unusual

lookingbrowndip,andbruschettabreadbetweenus.

Youwannaknowwhatthehellthatbrowncrapistoo,don'tyou?

As the woman sets plates down directly in front of us, Kellan kindly asks, “Melinda, did you

remembertobringthemenuaswell?”

“Idid.”Sheoffersmetheonepagemenubeingcradledbyathickholder.“Andthespecialforthe

eveningisSpicyMusselswithShrimpMarinara.”Oncetheobjectisinmygrip,shepolitelyasks,“MayI

getyoutwoanythingelseatthistime?”

Kellanplaceshiscellphonedownonthetableandgivesheranodofdismissal.“No.Butthank

you.I'llsendyouamessagewhenwe'rereadytoorder.”

“Enjoy.”

Aftershe'sclearedtheroom,Iquicklypointtotheunfamiliarfoodonthetable.“Whatthehellis

that?”

“Truffleandporcinimushroomdipwithartichokechunksandfetacheese.”

Thecasualnessofhisanswercausesmetoshakemyhead.“Youcan'tsaythatlikeit'severyday

shit.”

Hecocksasmile.“Tomeitis.”

“Did you forget the whole beer and burgers talk yesterday? I thought you said you were a good

listener.”

“Iam,butwherewouldthefunbeifIdidn'tpushyourcomfortlevelsasyou'vepushedmine.”

Don'tagreewithhimagain!

Kellansmilesagain.“YoulikethatIpushback,don'tyou?”

“YoulikethatIpushtobeginwith.”

“Yes,”headmitsandreachesforapieceofbread.“Now,you'renotallergictoanythingareyou?”

Seeingtheglimmerofanideabegintostirinmymind,hepointsasternfinger.“Don'tlietogetoutof

tryingiteither.”

“Notallergictoanything,”Isighandsneeratthedipagain.“DoIreallyhavetotrythat?”

“Yes.”Kellanuseshisforktoplacealittleonthesoftbread.“Onebite.”

Mydisgustedexpressiondoesn'tchange.

“Don'tbeapussy,”hescoldsandoffersmethepiece.

“Didyoureallyjust-”

“Idid,”heinterrupts.“AndI'llcontinuetocallyouthatallnightuntilyoutryit.”

No...Noway.Thatlookslikemudwaterwithdyingfrogsinit.

“One bite and you can ask me one question you want of any kind and I'll answer completely

honest.Nocleverretorts.Nocircumventing.”

Theofferswaysmydecision.“DoIhavetoaskitnow?”

“Itcanbeusedlikeagetoutofjailfreecard.It'llneverexpireandcanbeusedatanytime.”

“Eveninacrowdedroomfullofpeople.”

“Eventhen.”

Igivethebrowndipanadditionalglancebeforeshakingmyhead.“Nope.Stakesarestilltoohigh.

Ilovemytastebudstoomuch.”

Kellanhasthebitehe'sbeenofferingtoproveit'sattheveryleastnotharmful.

Not that I was worried it was. He's not exactly a stranger on my doorstep with coffee any

more.

“OnebiteandyoucanaskmetheonequestionandI'llhavethechefprepareyouthebestbacon

cheeseburgeryou'veeverhadinyourlife.”

Temptationfinallysurpassesthepointofnoreturn.“One.Bite.”

“One.”

Kellansmearsthediponanotherpieceofbreadandoffersittome.Insteadofwastinganymore

timestaringatthequestionableconcoction,Ishovethewholethinginmymouth,andlettheassaultonmy

tastebudsbegin.BurstafterburstofboldflavorsswarmtogetheruntilI'mpushedbackinmyseatfrom

theoverwhelmingrichtaste.

Holyhell.IthinkIjusthadafoodgasm.

“Delectable,isn'tit?”

Inodwhilesavoringtheflavorfloatingonmytongue.

“I'vegotfantastictaste.”Hiseyesgivemealong,lingeringstare.“Obviously...”

Sidesteppinghiscompliment,Ireachforanotherpieceofbread.“Canyoucook?”

“No.”Hehasasipofhischampagne.“It'sneverbeenimportanttolearn.”

“Meaning?”

“When I'm in Fayweather, if I'm not staying at the palace or our family's country home on the

outskirts,thenI'mcrashingatourhigh-risepenthouseinthecity,allofwhichhavecooks.Otherthanthat,I

liveinandoutofhotels,diningoutalmosteverynight.”

Betweenbites,Imanagetoask,“Youdon'thaveyourownplace?Anywhere?”

Kellan shakes his head. “No. I never stay in one place long enough to need one. It's one of the

benefitsofbeingabletoworkfromanywherethatprovidesaninternetconnection.”

UnsurehowIfeelaboutthat,Ifinishthebite,grabanotherhunkofbread,andstate,“Ican'tcook

either.”

“No?”

“Nope.Myroommatedoesmostofthecookingsinceit'sherboyfriendwhoeatsmostofourfood

andIusuallyhavedinneratmyparentsonSundays,soI'mprettymuchcovered.BeforelivingwithJovi,I

grewahugeappreciationformicrowavablemeals.”

Kellanhasanotherdrink.“Can'tsayI'veeverhadone.”

“Luckyyou.”

Heflashesmeasmile.

“Youknow,foraguyalwayseatingmealsonthego,yousuredon'tlooklikeit.”

“Youcanthanklacrosseforinstillingagreatworkoutregimeninme.”

“Lacrosse?Whatisthat?Likehockeyinthefield?”

“No...That'sfieldhockey.”

Hisjeercausesmetosnap.“Thoughtmaybeitwaslikethewholeyoucallitfootball,wecallit

soccerthing.”

“Itisfootball,”Kellarargues.“Youuseyourfeet.Hintsthename.Americansarejusttoostubborn

toacceptit.”

Iglareathiscommentbeforetossingthelastpieceofmybreadathim.

Hechortlesandbrushesitoff.

“Oops...”Iplayfullysneer.“Didn'tmeantogetyour4,000dollarsuitalldirty.Ohwait.Isthisone

thesamepriceordareIassumemore?”

“More.”

Surprisedropsmyjaw.“Seriously?”

“Importantdate.Bettersuit.”

Icontinuetotease,“Bettersuit,bettershoes?”

“Yes.”

“Bettercologne?”

“Youtellme.”Hewinks.

I wet my lips in an attempt to prevent from admitting just how much I enjoy it. “Same watch

though?Didyouforgettopackothers?”

Suddenly,Kellan'splayfuldemeanordissipates.

Notmybestjoke,butdefinitelynotamoodkiller.

Hegivestheaccessoryanadjustmentandinforms,“It'stheonlyoneIwear.Mymothergaveitto

meformybirthday.”

“Mama'sboy?”

“Iwaswhenwasshewasalive.”

Theconfessionshutsmymouthtightly.

Ohshit...Ididn'tmeanto...Ishouldn'thavesaid...I...Imessedthisup.

Anuncomfortablesilencestrugglestosettlebetweenusyethepokes,“Daddy'sgirl.”

Iattempttosmile.“Whataboutyou?Youclosetoyourfather?”

Kellan's body hardens further. “Not really. When my mother passed away we built a mutually

enjoyedemotionalwallbetweenus.”

“Howdidshedie?”

“Breastcancer.”

“Howlongago?”

“Almost15years.”

Ireachformyglass.“Whataboutyourbrother?Areyoutwoclose?”

“Practicallyidentical,”hefinallybeginstosmileagain.“Evenifyouthinkhe'shotter.”

“Bylikeapoint.”

Hiseyeslightup.“Oh,justonenow?”

“Maybelikehalfofone,”Iwhisperbeforehavingasip.“Doyoujustlookalikeorisheacocky,

arthatingsportslovingassholetoo?”

Kellanletslooseaheartychuckleandthesoundseepsthroughmeinunexpectedways.

Isitweirdtoenjoyhearingsomeonelaughthismuch?

“We'redifferentinwaysthatmatter,”hereplies.“WeweremorealikebeforehemetSophia,his

wife.”

“Doyounotlikeher?”

“Iadoreher.Shedrivesmybrothermadjustbecauseshecan.”Thesoundofhislaughtercontinues

toreverberatearoundtheroom.

Itdoesnotsoundfamiliar...

“Infact,heaskedheroutseventimesbeforesheagreedtohavecoffeewithhim.”

“Seventimes?”Henodsrapidly,andIplayfullysqueak,“IknewIshould'veheldoutlonger.”

Kellanrollshiseyes.“ThatlongandIwouldn'thavebeenintownanymore.”

Therealizationofthismomentbeingoneofouronlycausesmyshoulderstodrop.

IknowIdon'thaveanyrighttobeunhappyaboutthat.Wejustmet.Wehardlyevenknow

eachother...

“Dance with me.” His declaration is proceeded by him wiping his hands on his napkin and

standingup.

“You'renotgonnaask?”

Heextendshishandformetotake.“No.”

Afterwipingmyown,Idropitinhis,andallowhimtowhiskmeawaytodance.

Iswiftlywrapmyarmsaroundhisneckwhilehishandstaketheirtimedelicatelyexploringmy

curvesintheirpursuittorestonmyhips.Hisattempttohandlemewithtendernessissosurprisingitpulls

asweetsighfrommylips.

One minute he's Prince of Pompous Asses and the next he's Prince Charming. I'm gonna

needhimtodecideoneortheother.Hecan'tbeboth.I...I...Idon'tknowhowtohandleboth.

“Whatareyouintownfor?”Isoftlyaskasoureyesmeet.

“TheCollinMurphyFoundationcharityrun.TheyarearesearchfoundationinDoctennthathelps

fightChildhoodCancer.TheirmainbaseisinFayweather,whereI'mfrom,buttheypartnerwithaslightly

smaller branch here in the states. One of my old mates from boarding school is highly involved in the

American division. He suggested an annual run to help raise funds in the states after hearing about the

triathlonwedoinFayweather.I'vecomeeveryyeartoparticipatesinceitbegan.”

“Whichwas?”

“Thiswillbethe5

th

year.”

Impressedbyhiscommitment,Iofferhimasmile.“Howlongistherun?”

“5K,”hecasuallyreplies.“NothingIcan'tdoinmysleep.”

Hisego’soverdueappearancecausesmetorollmyeyes.

“Caretojoinmefortheevent?Icanpullafewstringsandarrangeyouaspotifyoulike.”

“That would be the worst date ever.” The two of us laugh and I add, “Seriously. That's not the

wayIprefertobesweatyandwinded.”

“Icangladlyarrangeotherwaystoaccomplishbothofthose.”Whenmyeyeslowertoadisgusted

glare,hechuckles,“Youshouldswingbytherun.Cheermeon.Theencouragementwouldbewelcomed.”

Myfacetiltssarcastically.“Becauseyouregoreallyneedsanymoreattention?”

Kellangivesmeasmallshrug.“Couldn'thurt.”

We snicker and move the conversation along. He explains some of the different departments the

money raised from the run is funneled into and also regales me with stories about some of the young

visitorswaitingforthematthefinishline,whoseliveshavebeenpositivelyaffectedbytheeffortsofthe

foundation. Kellan enthusiastically explains how his mother was a huge donor to the non-profit

organizationfromthemomenttheystartedintheircountryandusedtotakehimalongtothehospitalwhen

she would visit the families with supplies. As he recalls delivering meals, playing board games with

dyingchildren,andplayingpracticaljokesondoctorsjusttoseethepatientslaugh,hisentirepresence

illuminatestothepointit'simpossibletolookaway.

How can anyone be two people at once? You've met him. He's all flashy suits and cocky

commentsoneminuteandthenext,he'sthis.He'scaringandconcernedwithsomethingsomuch

larger than himself. Determined to make a difference in lives most people wouldn't give a second

thoughttounlesstheyweredirectlybeingaffectedbyit.It'slikehavingsomeonesplashwhitepaint

onablackcanvas.Thecontrastisn'tjuststriking.It'sbeautiful.

“I'mrambling,”Kellansaysinaslightlyembarrassedtone.

“It'sadorable,”Iwarmlyreassure.

Hisblueeyesflashreliefbeforehisgriptightens.“Soadorableyouwantmetokissyounow.”

“Wrong.”

Youshh.

Kellanlightlylaughs,lickshislips,andlowershisvoice,“Givemetensecondstochangeyour

mind.”

“Seven.”

Swiftly,hismouthdescendsmine,takingadvantageofmypartedlipsfromawordbarelyfinished.

Themomentourtonguestouchanimmediateirrefutablehungerisignited.Hisfingertipslockontomyhips

whilewebeginabattleinunchartedterritory.Theneedfordominancefrombothofusisapparent.Within

seconds,everyrollofourtonguesissoaggressiveandsoavariciousitseemsthattheonlypossibleway

tosateourappetitesistodevourmoreofeachother.ToputmeonalistIsworeIwastoogoodfor.To

putmeonalistIhatetoadmitIwanttobeaddedtoo.

Kellan'slipsabruptlyslipfrommine,leavingmebreathless.“Onlyneededfive.”

The cocky remark is reward with my mouth conquering his this time. A greedy groan rumbles

through him that's short lived by the sound of another vibration. Our tongues briefly connect once more

beforeI'mpullingawayinsistingheanswerit.

“Couldbeimportant,”Iwhisper,handsslidingdownhistautchest.

Godthat'sfirm....

“Morethanthis?”Hegivesmeasternexpressionbeforeshakinghishead.“Notachanceinhell.”

Ibrieflybitemylipbeforelettingmybetterjudgmentdothetalking.“Probablynot,butwhydon't

youmakesure?”

The vibrating pauses, which is when Kellan attempts to argue again, only to be cut off by the

soundstartingitssecondround.

He folds his hands with mine and I tease, “You think I'm gonna run away while you talk on the

phone?”

“Notriskingit,”hesighsashemovesusbacktowardsthetable.

Theminutewearrivemyeyesstealaglanceofthefacelightinguphisscreen.

Shelooksreallyfamiliar...OhmyGod,wasn'tsheinthespymoviethatjustcameout?

Before I'm given too long to further decipher where I know her from, the woman's face

disappears, from him ignoring the call. At that moment my grip on his loosens, I realize I've just been

savedbytheblonde.

Thatwould'vebeenacompletelydifferentT.V.showhuh?

Kellanquicklyattemptsdamagecontrol.“She'snoonespecial.”

“Accordingtoyoutheyneverare.”

Ahurtexpressionbeginstocultivate.“Brie-”

“How long after you've screwed me until you begin to ignore my calls? Until I'm just another

numberonalonglistofothernumbersyouletliearoundforincaseofpussyneedingemergency?”

“Brie-”

“Yousayyoudon'tleadanyoneon,butwhatthehelldoyoucallthisherewithme?Allthiswining

anddining.Isthisjustreallyextendedforeplay?”Hismouthtwitchestoreply,butIliftahandtosilence

him.“Nevermind.Idon'treallywanttheanswertothat.Look,youaskedmetodinnerandItechnically

atewithyouduringthistime,whichmeansIfulfilledmyend.I'dliketogohomenow.”

Kellanrunsahandthroughhishairinfrustration.“There'snoconvincingyoutostay,isthere?”

“No.”

Hemomentarilypresseshistogetherclearlyresistingthedesiretoarguewithmydecision.“Give

meamoment.I'llhaveSwissbringthecararound.”

Iwatchasheturnsonhisheelsandheadsforthedoorsinsilence.

There. Problem solved. I didn't wanna be a one night stand and now I won't be thanks to

whatI'massumingishislastone.Hey,I'mallforwomenwhowannagettheirs,whodon'tminda

moment of fun or aren't looking for more. I get it. I really do. But right now, I've got enough

uncertaintyloominginmynearfuturewithouthavingtoaddpossiblepermanentbootycalltothe

list,whichisonlyafractionbetterthanaoneoff.Iknowthat'swhathewasgoingtotrytocounter

with.Trytotemptmewiththeideaofjustenjoyingaflingforafewdays.Havingsomefun.And

whilethishaswithoutadoubtbeenthemostI'vehadinyearswithsomeoneoftheoppositesex,it's

notworthhatingmyselfforinthemorning.It'snotworththeideaofhavingtoacceptwhatwould

be the simple truth of letting myself fall for the bullshit he worked a little harder to sell. I'm not

lookingtobeoneofDukeKellanKenningston'sstatesidesometimes.Notnow.Notever.

Kellan

“Why am I seeing an online report for you breaking the heart of some American actress?” Kris

huffsfromtheotherendofthephone.

“Becauseyouhavenothingbettertodothantoreadtrashontheinternet?”

Thesnarkycommentreceivesanothergrumble.“Kellan.”

“What?” I snap into the phone. “I am particularly not in the mood to have this pointless

discussion.”

Tomysurprise,heasks,“Everythingalright?”

No.Thesameactresswhocouldbarelygetmeoffnowcan'tseemtobuggeroff.Itwasjust

onebloodyweekendinthemountainsforChristSake.Noonefallsheadoverheelsinloveinjust

oneweekend.Whyareyouleeringatmelikethat?

“Kellan.”

“I'm fine. The woman you are referring to is the same one I played strip poker with in the

mountains.Itwasameaninglessweekendthenandtheonlyreasonithasanymeaningnowisbecauseof

thewrenchithasthrowninmyrelationship.”

“Relationship?”

Realizing my mistake in choice of words, I lean back in the conference chair I'm currently

occupying.“Imisspoke.”

“Whatrelationship?”

“Imeant....”

WhatexactlydidImean?BrieandIaren'tdating,hellwe'veonlyknowneachotherfora

fewdays,yetIcan'tseemtogetpastthetantrumshethrewattheendofdinnertwodaysago.And

notjustbecausethatwasthelasttimeIheardfromher.Youknow,she'snotthefirstwomanI've

crossed paths with who is easily blinded by the women who have or who are aiming to keep my

mattresswarm,butshe'stheonlyoneI'vecomeacrossthatcreateslumpsofguiltinsideofmeover

the subject. Ever since she demanded to be taken home knots of bitterness over past actions have

beenconstrictinginthepitofmystomach.I'mtornbetweentheideaofthisbeingactualshameor

justindigestion.

Krisfinallybreaksthelonglullofsilence.“Youmeantwhat,babybrother?”

Hearingthetauntingarisefromthechoiceofendearmentshutsmyeyes.

“Thatyou'vefinallymetyourmatch?Finallymetsomeonewhodoesn'ttakeyourpastinabilityto

keepyourtoolinyourpantsascasualastheothers?”

Thesmugtoneinhisvoiceclenchesmyteeth.“You'reabloodybastard,youknowthat?”

“That'swhatbigbrothersarefor,”hemocksashelaughs.“WaituntilItellSophia,you'vefallen

in-”

“Ihaven'tfallenanywhere,withanyone,inanything.”

“Yourbedincluded,Ibet.”

No.Ihaveyettofindthenearestbarandburymysorrowsinapintandpetitepairoflegs.

Truthfully? I'm still hoping for the pair of brown ones who captured my attention days ago to

changetheirmind.

“I'm hanging up now,” I declare and end the call before the conversation can further digress a

directionithasnobusinessgoing.

LikeIsaidearlier.Noonefallsinloveoveraweekend.Myselfincluded.

The conference doors open and Hugh strolls in with another brown box. Immediately, a look of

irritationarisesonhisface.“HaveyouevenstartedassemblingtheVIPdonorpackets?”

My eyes shift to the mess waiting to be assembled on the floor beside me. “They're not going

anywhere.”

“Buttheyneedtoo,”Hughwhines.“Whydidyouvolunteertohelpifyou'rejustgoingtositinthat

chairandpout?”Theboxdropsdownontheedgeofthetabledrawingmyattentiontohimagain.“And

whyareyoupouting?You'vebeenobnoxiouslyintolerableforthepasttwodays.”

“You'recomplainingaboutyourfriendnotbotheringyou,”Danaquestionsassheenterstheroom

withanotherbox.“That'snot...strangetoyou?”

Icasuallywavemyhandherdirection.“Whatyourlovelygirlfriendsaid.”

“Andyou'recomplimentingherasopposedtoridiculingmeforcaringabouther.”Hispalmsfall

flatonthetable.“Whatthehelliswrongwithyou?Areyousick?Doyouhavetheflu?Doweneedto

chopperyouintothenearesthospital?”

AndpeoplesayIhaveaflareforthedramatic.

“I'mfine.”

“You'relying.”

Dana immediately agrees. “He is most definitely lying. He's not fine.” When our eyes meet, her

stareturnsskeptical,andshestates,“Buthe'snotsickeither.It'ssomethingelse...”

“Thisconversationisjustgoingincircles,”Iattempttochangesubjects.“I'mgoingtogetstarted

onthesebags.150,correct?”

Hugh nods and points to the unopened folder on my right. “In there you will find a list of items

eachbagshouldcontain.ThepersonallysignedthankyoucardsareintheboxDanajustbroughtin.”

“We appreciate the help,” Dana sweetly says. “We weren't expecting Diana to go into early

labor.”

“It'snotaproblem,”Ipolitelyassure.

Andit'snot.Stuffingtotebagsforthoserunningwhodonatedoverfivehundreddollarswill

keep my attention away from the lack of response I'm receiving from a sexy art student who is

convinced I'm nothing more than a pantie collecting playboy. Is it wrong to have hoped after

spending two nights with me, she would see something else? We didn't even kiss until the second

night!Damnneararecordforme!Wait.Thatlastlittlebitfitbetterwithhersideoftheargument

ratherthanmine.Ignoreit.

“Not a single complaint?” The suspicion in Hugh's voice forces me to turn around to open the

boxesatmyfeet.“Isitcontagious?”

Irollmyeyes.

Don'tlaugh.He'snotfunny.He'sanidiot.

“It's a woman,” Dana says slowly, voice approaching. She doesn't wait for confirmation before

accusing,“He'supsetoverawoman.”

“IsthisaboutthechickyoutooktodinneronSaturday?”

“Hetooksomeonetodinner?”Hisgirlfriendrushestoask.“Youdidn'ttellme!”

“Ididn'tthinkit'dmatter,”HughretortsatthesametimeIbegintounloadtheboxofengravedgym

towels.“Herarelyhasthesamedinnerdatetwice.”

WhywouldIwhentheamounttochoosefromisabundant?Yes,I'mawarehowthatalsofits

inwithBrie'saccusation.

“What happened? She throw wine in your face before she agreed to sleep with you? Cry in the

middle when she realized she picked the wrong man to give her virginity to? Demand a two-thousand-

dollarbottleofchampagneandpâtéafteryoufailedtogiveherthebigO?”

Iswiftlyspinaroundinthechairandpoint.“I'veneveroncefailedtogiveawomanthebigO.”

Hughvictoriouslysmirks.

Fine...Thatgotundermyskin,butit'snotwhatyou'rethinking.It'snotbecauseIactually

havecomeupshortinthatdepartment.Believeme.KrisandIsharedabeautifultennisinstructor

whospenttimeonesummergivinglessonsonhowtoservemorethantheball.

“Shedidn'tsleepwithhimatall,”Danadeducestooquickly.

Myattentionshiftstoher.“Ilikedyoubetterwhenyouwerepickingoutpatheticartpieces.”

“Hey!”Shesqueaks.“It'samasterpiece!”

“Itlookslikeasmurfsneezedonapieceofcardboard.”

“Forgivehim,”Hughdemandsmakinghiswaytowardsme.“Hegetsrathergrouchywhenhiscock

hasn'tbeentouchedinafewdays.”

“Isthatanoffer?”

His eyebrows lift as he leans against the edge of the table beside me. “You've never taken

rejectionwell-”

“Ihaven'thadtobecomeaccustomtoitlikeyou.”

“-butI'veneverseenyouthislevelofpissyfromsomerandomwomannotwantingtosleepwith

you.”Thetruthinhisstatementtightensmyjaw.“Typically,youjustmoveon.Noextrathoughtgivento

thewomanwhoselossyoubelieveitis.What'ssospecialaboutthisone?Beerflavorednipples?Double

jointed?Gymnast?”

Ileanbackinmychair.“HowhardwouldyourjawdropifItoldyouI'vealreadyhadallthreeof

those?”

There's a small gasp out of Dana, but her boyfriend shakes his head. “You haven't. I would've

heardaboutthebeernipplechick.That'snotjustsomethingthatdoesn'tgetsharedoveradrinkoralate

night with a bottle of tequila at a gentleman's club.” After receiving a nod of agreement from me, he

commands,“'Fessup.WhoissheandwhydoIloveherformakingyoumiserablealready?”

“You'reasbadasmybloodybrother.”

“Withallthehellandtormentyou'vegiventhetwoofusovertheyears,didyoureallythinkwe

wouldn'tstrikebackthemomenttheopportunitypresenteditself?Ihonestlyneverthoughtthedaywould

comewhenKellanKenningstonwouldfallin-”

“Not.In.Anything.”Istatesharply.

“Yousoare,”Danadisagrees.

“JustbecauseHughwasreadytowedyouafteroneglanceatthoseinapushupbra,doesn'tmean

allmenarethatway.”

She scoffs, folds her arms, and snaps, “You know, sometimes you make it extremely difficult to

likeyou.I'mstartingnottoblameherfornotansweringyourcallsortexts.”

Itiltmyheadincuriosity.“Whatmakesyouthink-”

“Becauseifsheweregivingintoeverytacticyoutriedyouwouldn'tbetakingyoursweettimeto

stuffthesebags.They'dbehalfwaydonealreadybecauseyouwouldhatetheideaofkeepingyourprize

forahardday'swork,waiting.”Dana'ssmilematchestheoneHughflashedmomentsago.

Isthatacouple'sthing?Doyoujustbegintoresembleoneanotherafteracertainperiodof

timeinlooksandmannerisms?Howodd.

“She's an art student. I met her at the showing. We had a minor issue at dinner and instead of

discussing it, she demanded to be taken home. I've been calling and messaging since but...” I give my

handsaslighttossintheair.“Nothing.”

MightIaddtheamountinwhichIamdoingboththingsisoutofmynature.Icalledthree

times on Sunday and so far twice today. Throughout both I've made attempts to apologize, to

provokeanargument,totemptasnidecomment,reallyanythingIcouldthinkoftorallyanysortof

response,yetshe'sgivennothing.She'sturningmeintotheverypersonwhosephonecallIdeniedat

dinner.However,wehaven'tslepttogether,makingmemorepatheticforbeingthisdesperate.You

don'thavetobotheragreeing.

“Isentherflowersyesterdayandchocolatecoveredstrawberriestoday.Stillnothing.”

“Whatwastheminorissue?”Danaaskswithgenuineconcern.

“Didyouimplyyouhad16centimeterswaitingforherwhenyoucouldbarelymake15?”

Withaproudsmirk,Ismuglycorrect,“Try21.”

For those not on the metric system, proving once more how stubborn Americans are, it's

about eight inches. Hugh being the American jerk who went to school in Doctenn often prides

himselfinhisabilitytodrunkenlytellothersthey'vegotsmallcocksintwoformsofmeasurement.

“Bull.”

“My dick hasn't shrunk since the last time you accused me of being an inadequate length to

compensateforthefactyou'renotaslongasyou'dlike.”

“Fuckyou.I'm-”

“Excuse me,” Dana interrupts moving our attention to her. “Can I suggest something before you

twostartbreakingoutrulers?”

Imotionahandforhertocontinue.

“Talktoher.”

Wow. She really is a ditz. There's an idea I hadn't thought of or that's even possible when

someonedoesn'tanswertheircell.

“Swingbyherplaceandmakeamendsfacetoface.”

ThethoughtI'vetinkeredwithbeginstotumbleoncemore.

“Trustme.”Shesoftlysmiles.“It'llmeanmorethananypresentorhalfassphonedinapologyever

could.”

Perhaps I'll give her one more day and then try that. Honestly? At this point I'm out of

bloody options. Even if she refuses to go out with me again, at the very least I want to prove her

wrong. I want her to know all of this isn't some drawn out attempt to sleep with her. I mean, of

course it wouldn't bother me if things ended up there sooner as opposed to later, but I enjoy her

companyinwaysthatpaleincomparisontothoseI'vesleptwith.She'sthefirstpersonIcanrecall

having as much fun with out of bed, as I imagine I would in it. That must count for

something...right?

Brie

PrinceOneNightstand:Morningbeautiful.

Igroanatthetextandpushthedevicetotheoppositeendofmynightstand.

Every. Fucking. Morning. Same text. Relatively the same time. Does royalty not know the

definition of sleeping in? This is a rare occasion in my life. My professor canceled class today

meaningtwoextrahoursofsleepbeforehavingtopreparemyselftolistentoteenagerswhineabout

theirflawedappearancesandbiasteachers.Puh-lease.Theywannalearnaboutrealbiasteachers?

Wait'tiltheygettocollegewhereifyousitinthefrontrowwithalow-cutshirtyou'regivenextra

credit. Yeah. Not one of community college's higher points they mention in the brochure. No, I

haven't always gone to Ashwin. I got all the basics I could and transferred over. Cheaper and

smarter.

For the next several minutes, I attempt to return to the land of sleep where Pierce Wyatt, the

televisionstarwhoplaysavampirecursedtosavetheworld,wasabouttopeeloffhiswetshirtandfeed

megrapes.

Idon'tknowwhyitwasgrapes.NotreallywhatIwasfocusedon...

Afterfailingmiserablyatthatbutsuccessfullytwistingmyselfinmysheets,Igrabmyglassesfrom

thenightstand,wiggleonapairsleepshortsandheadforthekitchenwhereJovihappenstobestandingin

frontoftheopenfridge.IwatchinsilenceasIapproachtheunusualsituation.

Allofasudden,Joviletsoutalongmoan,tossesherheadback,andmutters,“OhmyGod...”

FortheloveofallthatissacredpleasetellmeMerrickisnotontheothersideofheronhis

knees.

“Thesearesogood,”shewhispersandreachesinthefridgeforsomething.

Nowjustafewfeetawayfromher,Iask,“Whatthehellareyoueating?”

Jovisqueaksanddropsthechocolatecoveredfruitintheprocess.

Ah...

Aguiltylookflushesherlightbrowncomplexion.“Don'tbemadatme...”

“I'mnot.”

“Butifyouare-”

“Again,I'mnot.Haveasmanyasyouwant.Irefusetoeatem.”

Prefermyfruitsnotcoatedinculpability.

Jovi licks the chocolate off her thumb. “What did this guy do that is so awful it's making you

protestperfectlygreatdessert?”

Remindedmethattheonlywaytonotturnintohisflingoftheweekisbyactivelyavoiding

himandallthingsrelated.

“Talktome,”sheencouragesatthesametimeshefindsthefallenstrawberrytothrowinthetrash.

“MaybeIcanhelp.”

“OrmaybeIcan,”Merrick'svoiceunexpectedlyjoinstheconversation.

“Doubtful,”Imumbletomyself.

He greets her with a chaste kiss and questions immediately afterward, “Why do you taste like

chocolate?”

“Shewaseatingthedessertofthemanwhodisgustsme.”

Bothsetsofeyeslandonmeinunison.

“Disgust?” Jovi asks, leaning her back against the counter. “Three days ago he was just 'a

moment'. Now he disgusts you? What happened? Did he try to...to...do something you didn't want him

too?”

Her inability to complete the sentence causes me to smile and her boyfriend's frown to harden.

“He better not have.” His entire body stiffens in defense. “Is this something I need to handle? Does he

needhisasshandedtohim?DoI-”

“Slowdown,Cujo,”Imock.“It'swasnothinglikethat.”

Sametopic.Differentdirection.

“Thenwhat?”Jovipushes.

“It'snotabigdeal.We'rejustlookingfordifferentthingsinlife.He'slookingforaoneoffwhile

I'mlookingfor...”Theendofmysentencefadesintouncertainty.

Okay,soIdon'tknowexactlywhatitisIdowant,butattheveryleastIknowit'snothim.

Wellmaybeit'shim,butdefinitelynothistype.Idon'twannabeoneofmany.Iwannabethelast

one.Iwannabetheonlyone.Ugh.I'vegottostopwatchingtheHallmarkchannelthislongafter

Christmas.

Softly,shewhispers,“Doyouevenknowhowthatsentenceends?”

Idon'treply.

Merrickfoldshisarmsacrosshischest.“Areyousurethat'swhatthisguyisinto?”

“Therandomexhookupwhosecallheignoredduringourcandlelightdinnerfedmethosebread

crumbs.”

Hisheadslightlyswaysbeforeheargues,“Butmaybeit'snotlikethatwithyou.”

Equalpartsannoyedandsuspicious,Iliftmyeyebrows.

“Maybeyou'redifferent.”

“Ohright.Becauseguyslikethatdon'tevergotoextremelengthstogetlaid.”

“Theydon't,”Merrickargues.“Theydon'thaveto.”

HatehowmuchhesoundslikeKellanrightnow.

“Ifhe'sthetypeofguyyoubelieveheis,thekindthatloves'emeasy,andhasnoproblemjumping

fromchicktochick,thenthefacthe'sputtingrealeffortintotryingtoimpressyousaysitall.Thechaseof

thechallengewillpushaguylikethattocomeafteryouforacoupledays,butthentheneedtokeephis

egostrokedwillhavehimstrayfromyournotoadefiniteyes.Ifthisguyisdoingshithedoesn'ttypically

do,it'sbecausehehasnointentionontreatingyouthewayhetypicallywouldifyouwereanyoneelse.

Andtrustme.Onceaguyfindsthegirlworthdoingshitheneversawhimselfdoingbefore,everychick

fromthepastbecomesnothingmorethanahauntingmistakehewisheshecoulderase.”

His words burrow deeper than anticipated despite my best defenses. “It was only a couple of

dates,Merrick.You'retalkinglikehe'sinlovewithme.”

Hegivesmeanoffhandedshrug.“Howdoyouknowhe'snot?”

“DidyoumissthefirstpartofthatsentencewhereIsaidwewentoutontwodates?”

“Didn'teventakemethatlongtofallinlovewithJovi.”

Theadorableconfessiongrabsafrustratedsighfromme.

“Mypointis,don'tbesoquicktowritehimoffifyou'reintohim.Whichyoudefinitelyare.”

Iattempttoarguewhenhisgirlfriendsnips,“Don'tbotherdenyingit.I'veneverseenyouthisupset

overaguyonewayoranother.”

Because I don't get upset...We talked about this. Most guys don't even make it far enough

intomylifetowarrantadvisefromtheworld'scutestbutmostmeddlesomecouple.Maybethey're

right.Maybethey'rewrong.We'llneverknow....I'mnotansweringhimback.

“Shouldn'tyoutwobemakingoutinthebackofMerrick'struckorsomething?OrIdon'tknow...at

thisbignoisyplacewecallcollege?Basically,anywherethat'snotdirectlyinfrontofmewithjudging

eyes?”

The two of them chuckle and link hands. In an upbeat tone, Jovi states, “You gonna meet us for

dinneranddrinksafterwork?”

DoubtfulI'llbeinanymoodtowatchthemdrunkenlysuckface.

“I'llletyouknowonceIgetoffifI'mupforit.”

Sheoffersmeawarmsmileandnods.“Alright.Weprobablyshouldheadofftoclassbeforeall

thegoodparkingistaken.”

“By good parking she means the back lot where we can make out between classes.” Merrick

wiggleshiseyebrows.

“Iknow...”

WishIdidn't.Thetwoofthemcarelesslymakingoutinthemiddleofthedayisn'tasight

anyoneshouldhavetosufferthrough.

Oncethetwoofthemleave,Itakealonghotshower,throwonmyuniformforwork,andspend

the spare time I have watching old reruns of FRIENDS on Netflix. Just past the credits on the third

episode, the alarm on my phone indicates it's time to get going. I slide the device into my sweatshirt

pocketalongwithmywalletandgrabmykeysfromthecoffeetableinfrontofme.

AssoonasIopenthefrontdoor,myeyeseffortlesslylowertoaglare.

Areyoukiddingme?

Kellanoffersacuptomefromhissittingpositiononourapartmentstairs.“Macchiato?”

Ishutandlockthedoor.“Areyoucapableoforderinganythingthatdoesn'tsoundpretentious?”

WhenIturnbackaroundheoffersmetheothercupinhisgrasp.“Hotchocolate?”Seeingthestart

ofasmileonmyfacecauseshisowntogrow.“Canwetalk?”

Mybackbracesitselfagainstthedoor.“IthoughtitwasclearIhadnointerestindoingthatbythe

wayI'veignoredyourcallsandtexts.”

Kellan'ssmirkdoesn'twaiver.“WhichiswhyI'mhereinperson.I'mmorecharmingthisway.”

That'sonlybecauseyoucanseehiseyesandsmiletwinklelikeadamncartooncharacter.

“Fiveminutes,”hepleads.

His bright blue eyes continue his begging until I can feel my mouth caving without my consent.

“Two.”

KellanmotionstothespacenexttohimwhereIsitasrequested.

Hehandsmethehotchocolateandconfidentlyannounces,“Ilikeyou,Brie.”

“I'mhardnottolike.”

Myjokereceivesasmallchortle.“Imeanit.Ienjoyyourcompany.Youmakemelaugh.You'renot

afraidtogivemeshit.Andyoulistenwhentheconversationveerstowardsthingsthattrulymattertome.

Youdon'tspendtimetellingmethethingsyouthinkIwanttohearinordertogetsomethingtobenefityou.

Infact,theonlythingyoudothatIdon'tenjoyisjudgemeforhavingapromiscuouspast.”

“You'renotagirl.Youdon'tgettosay'promiscuouspast'.”

“That'squitesexist.”

“Wellsoisitwhenawomanisshamedforhavingmultiplesexpartnersandaguyishighfived.”

“Maybesheshouldbehighfived,”hesurprisinglyargues.“Ifshefeelsshe'sthatfantasticinthe

sheetsandfeelssheshouldbeenjoyedandpraisedoverthengiveherabloodyhighfive.Ifshefeelsher

worthisbetweenherlegsbecauseshehasnothingelsetoofferthanbyallmeansmakeitadouble.”

Unsureofhowtoreply,Iremainsilent.

“Most men who behave as such, treating women like trophies of accomplishments, fall into the

latter.”

“Whataboutyou?”

“Contrary to your belief, it's not about how many women I've been with. It's about the fun I've

had.”

Gottasay...Notreallyfeelinganybetterabouthim.

“That'swhyIdomostofwhatIdo.Idon'tunderstandwhyanyonewouldliveinaworldwhere

they'rebloodyboredorfallasleepmiserableatnightfromanothermundanemoment.I'vegrownupwith

death.I'veseenittakepeopleinvariousstagesofwhotheyareorwhotheywerebecomingandwhenit

struck my door step, the decision to live as though your days are yours was an easy one. There are so

manydecisionsinmylifethatarenotmyownthatIwillbedamnediftheonesI'mallowedtomakearen't

somethingIenjoy.Iwillnotapologizeforsimplyrevelinginfoodorsex.Tobecompletelyhonest,Idon't

eventhinkitbothersyouthatI'vehadmultiplepartners.Ithinkwhattrulybothersyouisthefactpartof

youstillwantsmeinspiteofthat.”

Mymouthbobsarounddesperateforaretort.

Hecan'tberight!Hejustcan't!Idon'twanthim.Iwanthimtogoaway.Iwanthimtostop

callingandsendingpresents.Iwanthimtostopshoweringmewithundeservedattention.Iwantto

himtostopmakingMerrick'sspeechpossiblytrue.

“That'swhyyou'vegivenmethreeminutesinsteadoftwo.”

“Maybe I'm just not good at telling time...” After a deep sigh, I simply shake my head. “I'm not

interestedinbeinganignoredphonecall.It'sthatsimple.”

“Well neither am I,” Kellan states sharply. “After three days of ignored messages and calls, I

realizedIdon'thaveanydesiretogothroughthatagain.Itwasdrivingmebloodymad.So,I'llalways

answeryouifyou'llalwaysanswerme,regardlessofwherethisdoesordoesnotendup.Deal?”

Theunusualyetsweetproclamationhasmefightingtheinstincttosmirk.“Deal.”

Kellan'seyeslightupinrelief.“Areyouofftosomewherenowordoyouhavetimetotakethis

conversationinside?”

“Work.”Itwistthecupinmygrasp,thankfulit'skeepingmyhandswarm.

“After?”Hecautiouslyquestions.“Maybewecouldorderin?Catchafilm?”

“Movie,” I poke fun at his word choice, which causes us both to snicker. “Two dates in a row

behindcloseddoors?Youashamedtobeseeninpublicwithme?”

“Notinthemoodtoshare.”Hisconfessionisfollowedwithhimleaningovertowardsme.“AndI

haveeveryintentionofmakingupthelosthoursIspentinpunishment.”

All of a sudden the isolated memory of our kiss breaks free and engulfs my thoughts. Without

resistance my mind recalls the rough movements on his tongue. The eagerness in its speed. The

desperationinhisgroans.

Heatrushesupmyneck,straightformycheeks.

Kellanwetshislipsinanticipation.“You'rered.”

“It'shot,”Imeeklyargue.

“It'sinthe50s..or10sforthoseofusintherestoftheworldwhouseCelsius.”

“I'm wearing a sweatshirt!” His pleased expression grows and I snap, “I'm not having sex with

youbecauseyouapologized.”

“Ineversaidyouwere.”

“We'renothavingsex.”

“Nottonight.”

Don'tagreewithhisaddition!

KnowingIdon'tbelieveit'lleveractuallyhappen,butsensingapatternwhenitcomestohim,I

simplysay,“Youcanmeetmebackherearound5.”

Aswestand,hequestions,“Here?Youwantmetofinallymeetyourroommate?”

Asarcasticexpressioncrossesmyface.“Absolutelynot.It'stequilaTuesdayatoneofourfavorite

bars.Onedollarshots,twodollarmargaritas,andthreedollarallyoucaneatnachos.”

Theyunderstandwhatitmeanstoliveonastudentbudget.

“Andwhyaren'twegoingthere?Soundslikeakillerdeal.”

“Becauseyoudidn'twannashare,”Iteasewithawink.

Kellannodsandflashesanothergrin.

Saunteringoffthedirectionofmycar,Isay,“Thanksforthehotchocolate,Kellan.”

Hissmileswellsinwhatappearstobepride.“I'llseeyouafterwork,Brie.”

Iturnbackaroundandexhaledeeply.

What the hell am I doing? I'm turning into the girl who cried man slut! One minute I'm

convinced he just wants to screw me and the next I'm willing to see where all this goes? What is

wrongwithme?Whatisitabouthimandhismischievoussmilethatmakeshimsohardtodeny?

WhatifMerrickisactuallyright?Whatif-Wait.DidIjustsaythatoutloud?DidIjustagreewith

MerrickMcCoyofallpeople?Whatthehell?DidKellanspikemydrink?Moreimportantly,whydo

Isuddenlygetthefeelingthisisn'tabouttobetheflinghewashopingforandIwasfearing?

Kellan

“Thisisridiculous!Wecan'tevenagreeontoppings!”

“Whoputstomatoesonapizza!”

“It'samargheritiapizza!That'showthey'rebloodymade!”

“It'snotrealpizza!There'snomeatonit!Thatjustmakesitfancybread!”Brieturnstoshoutfrom

herseatdirectlybesidemeonthecouchinherapartment.

Youdon'thavetoremindmeagreeingisn'tquitewhatwedobest....Butit'spizzaforChrist's

Sake.Whyshouldthisbethatdamndifficult?

“Let'sgettwopizzas,”Isuggestwithasigh.“Yougetyourfavorite.I'llgetmine.Youcantrya

pieceandseeit'snotasterribleasyou'reimagining.”

“That'swhatmymotherusedtosayaboutbroccoliandIstillgagatthesightofit,”shemumbles

andcompletesouronlineorder.

I watch over her shoulder, waiting for the payment screen, yet when it finally appears it

disappearsalmostinstantly.Slightlybaffled,Istruggletoquestion,“Whataboutpaying?”

“Done,” Brie announces and shuts her lap top. “I order from them all the time, so my payment

informationissaved.Justclickabuttonanditchargesmycard.”

Idomybesttohidetheannoyanceofmydefeat.“Ihadtheintentionofbuyingusdinner.”

Shehitsmeamockingpout.“Woulditmakeyoufeelbettertopickthemovie?”

Leaningbackagainstthecouch,Istate,“Youdon'tneedtopayforme.”

“Andyoudon'tneedtopayforme,”Briebitesback.

Sensinganervebeingpinched,Itrymybesttorectifyforthesituation.“InevermeanttoimplyI

did.It'sthegentlemanthingtodo.”

“Soiscallingagirlbackwhoyouspenttheweekendwithinthemountains.”

Heraccusationfurrowsmyeyebrows.“Wereyousearchingsocialmediaforupdatesonme?”

“WoulditbotheryouifIwas?”

Withouthesitation,Ireply,“Yes.”

“Why?”

“Becausethen...thenyouwouldn'tbethewomanIthoughtyouwere.”

There'snotmuchmysterytomysocialshenanigans.I'mnotashamedofthemnoramIthe

onewhoinsistsonpayingsomeonetocleanupthecrazythingsIdotoappearasthoughI'mjust

another socialite with too much time and money. However, since my mother died, I've come to

typicallyencountertwotypesofwomenintheprocessofcamerassnappingmyphoto.Therearethe

ones who are numb to it because they have spent their entire existence in front of flashes as well

and those who crave it, who hunt for it because they themselves crave that level of attention. The

latterarethesortsthatmainlyendupinmybedandarealsothereasonIdon'tfeelguiltywhenI

don'tfeedtheirfifteenminutesoffamebyenjoyinganothernightofcasualsexwiththem.They're

alsothesortstostalksocialmediaforsightings.Googlemynameaimlessly.Tellmemoreaboutme

thantheyeverdothemselves.

Brienowlooksslightlybaffled.“Whatthehelldoesthatmean?”

“ItmeansoneoftheverythingsIadoreaboutyouisthefactyoudidn'tdothosethings.Thatyou

haven'tbeenfollowingthetrashmagsortheirsitesaboutmywhereaboutsoractionsorrecentconquests.

Womenwhoscantheinternetforupdatesaboutmearethesameoneswhooftenenduponthelistyouare

soadamantaboutavoiding.”

“Isthattherealreasonwhytheyendupthere?”

“No,” I clarify quickly, “but being a fame troll doesn't give them any benefit in the pointless

pursuittostayoffofit.”BeforetheconversationcanspiraltheoutofcontroldirectionIforesee,Iask,

“Howdidyoufindoutabouttheweekendinthemountains?”

Shegrabstheremote.“ItwastrendingonlinewhenIcheckedFacebook.Well...Shewastrending.

MeeganMalone.”

IknewhernamestartedwithanM.

“Irecognizedherfaceastheoneyouignoredonourdate.Thepageswereallreportinghowshe

saidshewasdevastatedPrinceKellanKenningston,youngerbrotherofPrinceKristopherKenningston,

hadgivenupontheirrelationshipsoearlyon.”

“Relationship?Twodaysataskiresortisnotarelationship.Iswearthatoneismad.”

“Youmeanmadlikecrazy?”WhenInod,sodoesshe.“You'reright.Shespenttwodayswithyou

and wanted to keep seeing you. She must be bloody bonkers.” The poor accent barely blankets the

underlyingtruthinherstatement.Almostinstantly,Brierealizesherslip,andadds,“Imean,comeonnow.

There'snowayyou'rethatgoodinbed.”

I smile knowing she enjoys my company more than she'll ever truly admit. “Better than your

accent.”

Shesneersandturnsherattentionbacktothetelevision.“So,you'retellingmeweshould watch

oneofhermovies?”

“Ifyouwanttospendtheeveningwithmycommentaryonhowpoorlyshedoesinherfilmsandin

bed.”

Haven't actually seen any of her films, but I assume if she's that over the top off camera,

she'sprobablymuchmoresoon.

Shegivesmeasarcasticglance.“Whatchickwouldwanttohearaboutoneofyourexflingsin

details?”

“None,whichiswhyyouwon'tbechoosingoneofherfilms.”

Withasmallnodofagreement,shefacesthescreenandreturnstoscrollingthroughourchoices.

Afteralongspanofdenyingoneanother'schoices,wefinallyagreeuponaraunchycomedyjustminutes

beforethepizzaarrives.

Brieoffersmethepizzaboxestoplaceonthecoffeetablewhileshegrabsnapkinsandbottlesof

waterfromthefridge.

Atthesametimeshedropsdownonthecouch,shedemands,“Handmemyboxofpizza.Idon't

wantitanywherenearthatabominationyouordered.”

Withaplayfulsmirk,Imovetheboxtotheedgeofthetableclosesttome,andstate,“No.”

“No?”

“Youwantyourpizza?Youeitherhaveabiteofminefirstorkissmeasafeefortheinsult.”

Brieglowers.“OrIcouldjustreachoverandgrabitmyself.”

HerfreehandsstarttoreachoverandIliftoneofminetohalther.“Iwouldn'tdothatifIwere

you.I'mstrongerthanIleton.”

She rolls her eyes and makes another attempt for the box. In a swift motion, I grab both of her

hands,knockherbackwardsagainstthesofa,andpinthemaboveherhead.Thestrugglewithherarmsis

briefbutshedoesn'tcompletelysurrender.Allofasudden,herkneestartstomoveforcingmetopinmore

ofmybodyontopofhers.

“Kickingmeinthebollocks?Overpizza?”

“You'retheonepinningmedown!”

“You'retheonewhoforcedmyhand.”ShestartstoargueagainandIcommand.“Eitherkissmeor

getreadytotrythepizza.”

There'snoreluctanceinhermouthpressingagainstmine.Ireleasemygriptobetterbracemyself.

Ourlipspartandhertonguelightlyteases,daringminetopursueitforanothertaste.Onagreedygroan,I

anxiously take the bait. This time when they slowly brush together, she sweetly sighs, rocks her hips

upward,andsubmitstome.Thesweetsurrendershootsstraighttomycockatthesamemomentherhands

dragthemselvesdownthefrontofmysweater.

Doyouhaveanyideahoweasyitwouldbetoslipofftheseyogashortsshe’swearing?DidI

mentionit'sobviousshe'snotwearingthemwithunderwear?Yes.She'accidentally'droppedthe

remoteearlierandintheprocessofpickingitupgavemeapicturesqueviewthatwillbetaunting

mydreamsfordaystocome.Iswearshe'swearingthesetinyshortsandfittedt-shirtonpurpose.

FurthertortureforthatphonecallthatruinedourlastdateIpresume.

Unfortunately,Briepushesmeback,breakingthebeginningofwhatIcanonlyimaginewould've

beenanincredibleforeplaysession.Slightlybreathless,shestates,“Pizza.”

I simply nod and move back to my side of the couch where I do my best to casually adjust the

bulgeinmyjeans.

ShouldIbeworriedwhatsexwillbelikeifkissingheristhisexhilarating?

AfterIslideherpizzaboxtohersideofthetable,Iopenmyownandpulloutasliceonlytohave

hersnakethefirstbitebeforeitcanreachmymouth.Myeyebrowsliftinshock.

Brieswallowsthebitewithashrug.“I'mmoreunpredictablethanIleton.”

Andthat'sexactlywhyIlikeher.

“Pizza's gross by the way,” she informs and moves her focus to her own meal. “It's like bread

salad.”

I chuckle, roll my eyes, and devour the remainder of the piece. Once I've finished, I wipe my

fingertipsandusethemtogentlystrokeBrie'sback.Surprisingly,insteadofpullingawayorgivingmea

sassy reason to stop, she scoots closer. I briefly smile to myself and let my attention admire the

remarkablewomanwho'ssomehowmanagedtogivemeaglimpseofwhatIimaginemybrotherhas.

Before this, I never really understood why Kris would exchange spending his life with one

womanwhenhecouldhaveanendlessamount.Howanyonepersoncouldbemoreexcitingthan

constantlyexploringwhatsomanyhavetooffer.Ofcourse,youdon'tgetthefullstoryofsomeone

when you only spend four to six hours with them, and during that time most of it naked and

moaning. But with that established, I hadn't felt any desire to discover the secrets they weren't

willingtotell.Ididn'tcaretolearnaboutwheretheycamefromorwheretheywantedtogoinlife.

Maybeit'sbecauseinawaytheyallfeltlikecarboncopiesofthesamebullshit.Thesamepathetic

talewaitingforanendingIhadnointerestinparticipatingin.Butforsomeunknownreasonithas

yet to feel that way with Brie. Every moment is quite the opposite. I hate not knowing everything

aboutheralmostasmuchasIhatehernotknowingeverythingaboutme.Theconstantfeelingof

wantingmoreofher,notjustsexuallybutintellectually,ismaddening.Ifthisisevenhalfofwhat

mybrotherfeelsaboutSophiathanIunderstandhisover-zealousbehaviortodefendit.

IkeepmytoucheslightwhileIusemylefthandtooccasionallyfeedmyselfpizza.Themoment

Briefinishes,shecurlsherbodyagainstmine,withherheadrestingonmychest.Instinctively,Iabandon

theremnantsintheboxandwrapanarmaroundher.Sheletsoutasoftsigh,whichslipsasmilebackon

myface.

Howinsaneisitthatthisfeelslikesomethingwe'vebeendoingforyears?Likesomething

wewillnaturallyalwaysbedoing?

For the remainder of the film, we remain completely embraced. Though we exchange multiple,

wittycommentsinretorttosomeofthedialoginthefilm,neitherofusattemptstoleavethesituationor

rearrangewhatwe'vesilentlydeclaredasundeniablycomfortable.

ThecreditsbegintoappearandIstate,“NotasamazingasCrookedCupid1,butnottooshabby

forsequel.”

Brielooksupatmewithagraciousgrin.“Wellweknewitwasn'tgoingtobeasgreatasthefirst

one.Sequelsrarelyare.”

“True.”ThetwoofusexchangeanothersmilebeforeIadmit,“Youknow,I'veactuallyneverdone

thisbefore?”

Aglumlookgraceshereyes.“Cuddled?”

“No,I'vedonethat.”

Notacompletewanker.I'llholdawomaninbedpostsexifit'sdesired.

“I'veneveractuallydonethefilmonthecouchwiththepizzathing.”

Brie pulls away in disbelief. “What? Didn't you go to college or whatever your country's

equivalentis?Thisislikestandardfirstapartment,firstfeelherup,1-0-1.”

Idon'tmoveincaseshechoosestoreturntomyarms.“AreyousuggestingIfeelyouup?”

Hercheeksbecomeflushed,givingmetheanswerIknowherlipsmostlikelywon't.

MycockbeginstoswellinmyjeansyetIignoreittoreply,“Yes.IwenttoGrindalinUniversity.

Theyhaveanamazingbehaviorscienceprogram.It'smuchlikeOxfordbutinGrindalin,Doctennrather

thanEngland.ThinkanAmericanIvyLeagueschool.”

“Ofcourseyoudid.Becausewhereelsewouldthesonofakinggo? Community college?” She

snipstoherself.“Surprisedyou'reevenallowedtodatesomeonewhodid.”

The underlying confession causes me to reach out for her hand. “You took your basics at

communitycollege?”

“It was cheaper....And I'm the only one paying for my education so...yeah. It's taking me a bit

longerthan...practicallyeveryone.”

“Nothing to be ashamed of,” I reassure, relieved when she folds her fingers with mine. “If

anythingit'sabiggerreasontobeproudofallyou'veaccomplished.”

Brietriestosmile.

“Inallseriousness,thisisthefirsttimeI'vesatonthecouchandwatchedafilmwithpizzaanda

date.I'vedoneitcountlesstimeswithmates,butneversomeoneIwasplanningtogetnaked.”

Shegigglesassheshakesherhead.

“Most women are thrilled to be swooped away to restaurants they never pictured themselves in

andbythetimethemealisover,thecouchisnottheirdesireddestination.”Iwink.

Briegagsattheactionbeforesheadds,“Guessyouturnyourcellphoneoffforthose dinners?”

Theblowisfollowedwithhersnickering.“Soit'sjustthateasyforyou?Youtakesomepoordefenseless

womantodinnerandtwohourslatershejoinsacollectionofforgottennames?”

“Youmakemesoundlikesomesortofdeviant.”

Shegivesmeagradualnoduntilmyeyesenlarge,whichiswhensheeruptsintoafitofgiggles

again.

SeewhatImean.Absolutelymad.

Allofasudden,sheslidesoverandstraddlesherselfinmylap.Thestartlingshiftcausesmyshaft

tostiratthesametimeshewrapsherarmsaroundmyneck.Ifighteveryurgetograbherbythebackof

theneckandrekindleourmomentfrombefore.Brie'svoicelowerstoaseductivetone.“Notabouttosee

menaked,butdoesn'tmeanyourfirstcouchdateshouldbeatotalbomb.”

Myhandsslowlysnakethemselvesjustunderneaththehemofhert-shirtrightaboveherhips.“A

datewithyouisneverabomb.”

Notevenwhenshedemandstobetakenhomeasit'sjustbegun.

“Goodanswer,”shewhispersagainstmylips.

The moment she's finished speaking all restraint is shattered. Our tongues fuse together in a

blinding frenzy, each twist intertwined with impure intention and insatiable need. Brie moans softly yet

thesoundreverberatesthroughoutmyentiresystem.Thebarelyaudibleindicationofhersubmissiontome

inmyfavoriteformforcesmetoyankhercloser.Shearchesintomytouchallowingmetodeepenthekiss

aswellasgraspthecurveofherbehindtightly.AnothermewlseepsfreeandIcanfeelthedeviantshe

playfullyaccusedmeofbeingaugmentingintosomethingmoreferocious.Swiftly,Irotatethetwoofus

ontooursides,keepingourbodiestangledintheprocess.MyhandhungrilyroamseverycurveI'mgiven

access too. Before I know it, my fingertips are toying with the waistband of her shorts while she's

wrigglingindesperation.

Idropmymouthfromhersandshewhimpers.

“You said feel you up...” My eyes rake over her heaving chest but eventually fall to where my

fingersarelingering.“Howaboutdowninstead?”

Briewetsherlipsandslowlynods.Sheleansuptoconnectourlipsoncemore,butIshakemy

headrefusingtomissaminuteofwhatI'manticipating.Inanunhurriedmotion,Iremovehershortsand

amexposedtoabeautifulbaresight.Iswallowmygluttonousgroansandgentlygrazeherclit.Shewhines

formorealmostimmediatelyassheeagerlypartsherlegstogiftmewithbetteraccess.Iimpetuouslyslip

afingerinsideandamrewardedwiththebeautifulsoundofherbreathhitching.Hertightpussywelcomes

the invasion yet I pull back, the desire to drag this moment out increasing exponentially with her every

passinggasp.Ardently,shegraspsmybicepandrocksherselfintomytouchlikeademandIcan'trefuse.

AsmallsmirkspreadsacrossmylipsbeforeIbegintoincreasethespeed.Withoutmyconsentmybody

grindsagainsthers,mimickingtheactionasifitwasmycockinsteadofmyfingers.Icontinuetopump

possessivelyuntilhercriescultivatelouderandlouderindicatingshe'sonthebrinkofcoming.

Fuck.I'mrighttherewithher.

Brie screws her eyes shut at the same moment her bottom lip slips between her teeth. All of a

sudden,wavesofwhimpersbegintoescapewhilesheweaklywithersbeneathmytouch.Istillmyfingers

andleteverytremortrekthroughme,moreturnedonthanI'veeverbeenbefore.

Once Brie's eyes manage to flutter themselves back open I greet her with a smirk. “That was

bloodyamazing...”

Thestarttohersmileisshortlivedduetothesoundofthefrontdoortryingtobeunlocked.

Impeccabletiming...

Shepushes me outof the way,promptly puts her bottomsback on, andpretends to be searching

channelswhenitfinallyopens.

The couple I remember from the showing saunters in with the male chuckling loudly. “I don't

rememberyourdoorhavingsomanylocks.”

WhydoIsuddenlydreadtheideaofBrieevenpretendingthatblokewasherboyfriend?

“We've always had two locks, Merrick,” the girl sighs before glancing our direction. Her eyes

landonmeandlightup.“And....whoareyou?”

“Yeah,”Merrickechoes.“Whothefuckareyou?”

Iofferthemakindsmile.“I'm-”

“Just leaving,” Brie interrupts. My eyes meet hers to notice the pleading in them are almost as

loudashercriesweremeresecondsago.

Issheseriouslythrowingmeoutrightaftershegotoff?That'safirst...YouknowatleastI

offersomepostorgasmpillowtalkbeforehelpingshowthemout.

“I...am...”myvoicereluctantlyagrees.“But,I'llseeyoutomorrow.Correct?”

Shequicklynodsandstandstoherfeetatthesametimeherroommatequestions,“Whyareyou

leavingrightnow?Wejustgothere.We-”

“He'sgot...stufftodo,”Briepoorlyexplains.

Igrabmysilencedcellphone,slipitmypocket,andwalkaroundtoproperlyintroducemyself.

“IndeedIdo.Conferencecallwithmybrother.”Knowingmylieisbelievableatfirstthought,Iquickly

movetheconversation,“I'mKellanKenningstonbytheway.”

Thegirlshakesandsweetlysays,“Jovi.JoviCarter.”

Traditionally,wekissthehandontheladieswe'reintroducedtoandsavehandshakesforthe

men.Imadeanexception.Youseethehatredinherboyfriend'seyes,don'tyou?

“McCoy,” her boyfriend defensively states before I've even offered my hand to shake. “Merrick

McCoyandJoviismygirlfriend.Weclear?”

“Relax.HewasheremakingoutwithmeyoudrunkenNeanderthal,”Brieboldlycorrects.

Hearingherproclamationpaintsanothersmileonmyface.

WhatcanIsay?Ienjoytheprideasopposedtotheshame.

“Shouldn'tyoubegoing?”Shepushesmetoleaveoncemore.

“Yes.”GivingJoviandMerrickanotherpolitenod,Isay,“Itwasapleasuretomeetyouboth.I

lookforwardtoseeingyouattherunthisweekend.”

“Whatrun?”Theyquicklyquestioninunison.

“DidBrieforgettotellyou?”Ipretendtobeshocked.Afterstealingaglancetoseeirritationand

flusterbuilding,Iturnbacktowardsherfriends.“It'squiteallright.I'llinformyou.I'llbedoingacharity

run this weekend and Brie will be in the crowd, attending to cheer me on. You two are more than

welcomedtojoinherfortherunandfestivitiesafterward.”

There'sanexasperatedsighfromthesexywomanthrowingmeoutofherapartment.

Andthisshalleventhescorefortakingthatparticularaction.

“Soundsfun!”Joviexclaims.

“No...nononono....”Briebeginstomutter.

“Enjoyyournight,”Ipolitelysaytothemandgiveheronefinalsmirk.“Sleepwell,love.”

ShegrumblessomethingbeforeIexitwithoutclarifyingwhatitis.

Youknowusbynow.YouhadtoknowIhadonemoretrickupmysleeve.Wherewouldbe

thefuninendingthenightona'normal'note?That'snotourstyle....Besides,Iwantherthereand

I know the only way to insure that is by outsmarting her. Don't worry. I'll brace myself for the

inevitablebacklashshe'sgoingtospringonme.Inanoddway...I'mlookingforwardtoit.

Kellan

IleanagainstthewindowinthecoffeeshopasIcontinuetoscrollthroughthearrayofcomments

leftonthephotoIpostedyesterdayacrossmymediapages.

It'sashotofmywatchonmywristwiththecaption'Can'tbelateformyhotdate'.Cheeky

and a bit corny yet thousands of comments. Most are women with some variation of 'wish it was

me'. The innocent photo also received me a spot of speculation on the entertainment show DCW,

which stands for Doctenn Celebrity Watch. It's a half hour segmented show that brings the trash

gossiptheypostonlinetothetelevisionscreen.There'saroomfullofthepeoplewhotypicallydo

theblogging,buttheyareallowedtomakesnideordirtyremarksforthesakeoflaughs.Apparently,

thefactIhaveamysterydatesparkedenoughlowbrowjokestowarrantascoldingmessageandthe

videolinkfromKristopher.Iwonderifhe'sactuallyupsetI'mtoyingwithpeoplebykeepingthemin

thedarkaboutwhereIamandwhoI'mwith,orifit'sbecausehe'snotanexceptiontoknowingthe

whopart.

“OrderforB.Sanders,”thebaristaannouncesloudly.

Iquicklyrisetomyfeetandcrosstothecounter.Withmyphonestillinmygrip,Iliftit,takea

shotofourtwocupstogetherandpostitacrosstheplatforms.

Thecaptionreads:Coffeefor2.

Pleasedwithmylatestharmlesspicture,Islipthedeviceintomysuitpocketjustasthebrunette

womanstates,“You'vebeeninhereeverymorningforthepastthreedays.Alwaystwocups.Youmustbe

theworld'sbestboyfriend.”

I try to laugh through my discomfort from the label. “I'm...I'm her...well...We're not...We're

dating.”

Not that I would be opposed to more if it were possible, but it isn't. I leave in a couple of

days.Thisendsthen...It'llbeforthebest,trustme.

“Oh,”shehumshopeful.“Well...ifdatinghergoeswrong,youknowwheretofindme.”

Iofferherapolitesmileandgrabthebeverages.“Enjoyyourday.”

“Youtoo...”

ThoughthecoffeeshopisbasicallyrightaroundthecornerfromBrie'sapartment,it'sstillsafest

andquickestformetodrive.

WelltohaveSwissdrive.Idon'tdomuchdrivingwhenhe'saround.Lately,I'veletmymind

wonderwhatitwouldbeliketohavemyowncar.Toliveinoneplaceandhaveareasontoownit.

Tobeabletodrivesomewhereunaccompanied...No,Idon'tevenhaveacarinDoctenn.Drivingis

practicallyauselessskillwhenyoursecuritydetailsaretheoneswhodoitforyoubymandate.

Abouthalfwayupthestairstotheirapartment,Joviappearswithawarm,surprisedsmile.

“Goodmorning,Jovi.”

“Morning,Kellan.”Hergrintriesnottoexpand.“BringingBriecoffeeagain?”

“It'stheonlyexcuseIcanfindtoseehereverymorning.”

Sheletsoutasmallswoon.

Youtoo?Hm.Gladyouapproveofmysweetgesture.

“Issheupyet?”

“No,Idon'tthinkso.Herprofessorcanceledclassagain.Hisdaughterwasinacarcrashandhe

hasn'tmadeitbacktotownyet.”

“That'sawful,”Isigh,reachingthetopofthesteps.

“Yeah,”Joviagreeswithabrokenlook.

I make haste to change the glum topic. “No McCoy this morning? He in trouble with you for

something?”

She giggles, turns, and unlocks the apartment door for me. “No. I made him sleep at his own

apartmentlastnight,soIcouldworkonmypaperwithouthimconstantlyaskingamIfinishedyet.”

Isnicker.“Can'tblamehim.IdidthesamethingyesterdaywhenBriewasattemptingtowriteher

paperonthestatueofDavid.”

“IchoosePietà.”

Cluelessnesscloaksmyexpression.

“It'sanothermarblestatuebyMichelangelo.”

“Youaremeanttobebestfriends,aren'tyou?”

Jovigivesmeagiggle,butnods.“Enjoyyourcoffeedate.”

“Enjoyyour....class?”

ShewavesandscampersdownthestepsasIheadintotheirapartment.

Glad Brie has someone she can share her passion of art with. That's one subject I highly

doubtIwilleverenjoy.

I carefully open Brie's bedroom door, doing my best not to disturb her if she is indeed still

sleeping.Itturnsoutsheis.Andit'sbreathtaking.

She looks like a dark-skinned angel missing from those paintings I've seen her study. Her

whitesheetiswrappedaroundherwhileherwavyhairisspreadacrossthepillowsasifpurposely

displaying her flawless face. There are very few women I've seen in this state. Countless times,

womenI'vesleptwithrefreshtheirmakeupbeforeI'veawokenlikeI'mnotgoingtonotice.Truth

is,IlovethatBrieallowsmetoseepartsofherotherwomenhavebeentooembarrassedtoexpose.

Yes,Ididjuststrollinhereunannouncedtoday,butshenevermakesafussaboutcoveringherself

withmakeup.Infact,shedoesn'twearmuchofitatallunlessweheadsomewherethatshefeels

requiresit.Sophissimilarexceptshehasalipstickaddiction.

Suddenly, Brie's body begins to roll over onto her back. She catches a glimpse of me in the

progress,whichresultsintheshrill,sharp,scaredscream.

Hopeyoudidn'tneedyoureardrumseither...

“Goodmorning,love.”

“Holycrap,Kellan!”Shebitesandsearchesforherglassesonhernightstand.“Whatthehellis

wrongwithyou?”

Themomentthey'reonherfaceIsmileatthevisionIlovemoreeverytimeIseeit.

“Wereyoujust...watchingmesleep?”

“Youlookedpeaceful.”

“Andyoulookcreepy...”Stillwhirlingaroundinshock,shesnaps,“Howthehelldidyouevenget

inhere?DidyoupullsomestringsfromaCIAbuddy?Getakeymade?”

Sittingontheedgeofherbed,closesttothebathroom,Ireply,“Joviletmeinbeforesheleftfor

class.”Hershouldersfinallyfallinrelief.“ItoldyouIwasn'tastalker.”

“Walkingathinlinetherebypoppingintomyroomtowatchmesleep.”

“Ipoppedinwhileyouweresleeping.Bigdifference.”

“Notasbigasyouthink.”

Witharolloftheeyes,Iofferheroneofthecups.“Whitemocha?”

“Tryingoutanewnickname?”Sheteases.“Notgonnalie.Kindadigit.”Brietakesthebeverage

withonehandandusestheothertoadjustthefallingsheet.

Acuriousgringrows.“Areyounaked?”

“Ihaveonunderwear.”

Myeyesstealanotherglimpseofwherethesheetispressedtightlytoherchest.

“Nu-huh,”sheinsists,redirectingmyeyesbacktohers.“I'mnotshowing.”

“YouthinkyouknowmewellenoughtoassumewhatI'mthinking?”

“You'restaringatmytits.Itdoesn'ttakeadoctoratetoguesswhatthoughtsarerollingaround.”

Withaplayfulsmirk,Ileanoverandlightlypressourlipstogetherforamoment.“Goodmorning,

love.”

Shehelplesslysmiles.“Goodmorning,Kellan.”

Casually,Iplacemycupofcoffeeonhernightstandandpullheragainstmeforanadditionalkiss.

Atfirstsheattemptstokeepthekissshortandcurtyetmyendlessnippingatherbottomlipforcesherto

spreadthemformyliking.Mytongueinstantlypunishesherfornotcavingsoonerwhilesheleakslight

whimpersofencouragementtocontinue.Withinseconds,hercoffeeisonthestandbesidemine,andher

hands are tugging at my neck to move me closer. I give into her demand as well as begin my own by

pullingatthesheet.Themomentitfalls,myhandcupstheunprotectedflesh,onlytohaveathroatygrowl

released.

Shepullsback,herlipspuffyfrombeingoverpowered,andletsamoanfree.

Everymorningshouldstartthisway...

BeforeI'vehadthechancetogivethesoftskinanotherstroke,herhandglidesacrossmycrotch,

and grips my hardened cock with intent. The husky groan that's grabbed spurs her to give my swollen

memberanothergreedyrub.Afteragentlepushofencouragementtoleanbackwards,sheundoesmybelt,

mypants,andslidesherhandfrommyimmediatesight.Thefeelingofherwarmpalmpressedagainstmy

dickcausesmetoeagerlyhelphereffortsofthejailbreak.Oncemycockisinamoreofferingposition,

shecarefullycaresseswithsharpmotions,eachbeingdeliveredwithenoughdeliciousforcetorollmy

eyesintothebackofmyhead.Briecontinuesherslow,agonizingpumpslikeeverybrushhasonlyone

long,lusciousmission.Adabofpre-cumseepsfromthetip,andshesmoothlyspreadsitdownmyshaftto

assistinherexploits.Mybreathingabruptlyshortensasmymindstrugglestofocusontheideaofholding

off the orgasm building. Suddenly, Brie's hot breath is setting the skin on my neck ablaze during her

journeyformyearlobe.Herteethtugatthesametimeherhanddoes,makingmepowerlesstostopfrom

coming. My mouth becomes rictus while my mind becomes imprisoned in a heavenly haze with every

eroticrushthatleavesmycock.

Idon'tthinkI'vehadahandjobfeelquitelikethat.

Completely spent, I fall backwards and Brie begins to snicker in a way I'm unfortunately too

familiarwith.Onceairhasmigratedbacktothepartofmybrainthatallowsspeaking,Iask,“Whyare

youlaughing?”

Sheproudlyhums.“Thistimeyoumadethemessonyoursuit.”

ThefactI'mgoingtonowhavecrotchstainsshouldirritatemeyetIopenmyeyesandpeerupat

herwithasmile.“Worthit.”

Briesnickersagain,dropsachastekissonmylips,andsays,“I'llgrabyouatowelbeforeIhopin

theshower.”

Unabletodomorethannod,Ilethervanishfrommysight,ablissfulsmirkstillburningmylips.

Ifthisiswhatit'slikewhilewe'resimplyjustdatingforaweek,Ican'timaginewhatdating

forlongerwouldentail.Perhapsdonutsandblowjobsratherthancoffeeandhandjobs?Perhaps

bagelsafterenjoyingherforbreakfast?IknowIshouldn'twonder,Iknowitisn'tmyplaceto,but

howaboutweletmejustthisonce.IdoubtI'lleverexperienceanythinglikethisagain.

Brie

Islidemyhandsintomysweatshirtpocket.“Youreallydidn'thavetoswitchshiftstobeherewith

me.”

“I know,” Jovi says, eyes glancing back and forth between me and the empty road where the

runnerswillbe.“Butthere'snowayIcouldpassthisup.Partofmestillcan'tbelieveyou'reevenhere.”

Meeither.

“Thenagain,you'vespenteverynightwithhimsincehesentyouthosestrawberries,somaybewe

shouldgetusedtohimbeingaround,onamorepermanentbases?”Shewiggleshereyebrowscausingme

torollmyeyesinretaliation.

Wehavespenteverynighttogethersinceourmoviemakeoutsession.Andeverymorning.In

less than a week we've somehow established our own little routine of sweet good morning texts

followed promptly by morning coffee delivered with a heavy tongue romp or if time allows a little

more.DuringthedaywhenI'minclassorhaveafreeminuteatworkweexchangequips,butthe

momentI'moffandwe'retogether,ourtimeisprimarilyspentlaughingfrompushingeachother's

buttonsandallowingourplayfulretortstotransformintowickedforeplaythatalwaysendswithme

coming. I mean always. And not just one orgasm. He has a self-set goal of at least three but my

body can never handle more than four without a reprieve. Kellan on the other hand has an

impeccablereboundtimeandalwaysgetsoffatleasttwice.Readytobeshocked?Noneofitisfrom

sex!Justourhands.Yeah.Youheardmecorrectly,butjustincaseyouthinkyoudidn'tIwillrepeat

it.Not.From.Sex.Hardtobelievehe'sstillaroundgivenwhatweknowabouthim,right?Whilehe

jokes, he's never actually pushed me for more or become irked because I refuse to screw him yet.

Yeah...Talkaboutbeingcompletelywrongaboutsomeone.Well...maybenotcompletely wrong, but

definitely in that department. On multiple accounts. It's not normal for a guy to get a woman off

thatmanytimeswithhisfingers,isit?Imean,it'sbeen....sometimesinceI'vehadanykindofsex

life,butIdon'trememberiteverinvolvingthismanyorgasms.

“Well?”JovipusheswhenIdon'tanswer.“Willwe?”

Asmalllumpswellsinmythroat.

We've done everything we can to avoid talking about it, but he flies back to Fayweather

tomorrow morning. While we haven't discussed what that means for the two of us, I'm not dumb

enoughtobelieveinalongdistancerelationship,especiallynotonethattakesplaceintwodifferent

countries.You'vemetKellan.Thatwouldgoagainsteverythinginhisnature,nottomentionIdon't

need that type of stress. I've gotta focus on graduating. That's....That's the most important thing

rightnow.

“Brie,”shesayssharply.

“Probablynot.”Iclearmythroat.“Heflieshometomorrow.Hewasonlyintownfortherun.”

Herbrowneyeswiden.“Seriously?”

Inodandcasuallyshrug.“It'snotabigdeal.Iknewthatfromthestart.GuessinawayIdidn't

thinkitwouldmatter.Didn'texactlyplantospendthismuchtimetogether.Hell,Ididn'tthinkhe'dstillbe

interested.”

Joviscoffsjustastherunnerscomearoundforthefirstlap.

Not leading the pack, but shortly behind, is Kellan jogging happily along. He slows down a bit

andscansthecrowduntilhespotsme.Themomentoureyesconnect,hegivesmeaquickwinkandpicks

upthespeedagain.

Don't remind me he's even dreamier glistening in a thin layer of sweat. Ugh. Can you

imaginehowhothe'dlookontopofmelikethat?

“Whythehellwouldyouthinkhewouldn'tstillbeinterested?”Shesqueaks.

Knowingit'stimeforanotherconfession,Iletoutadeepsighandlowermyvoice.“Becausehe

basicallycanhaveanywomanhewants.He'saprince.”

“Aprince?”

“Well...andtechnicallyaduke.”

Jovigivesmeasarcasticlook.“What'stherealreason?”

“That,”Ireiterate.

Beforeshecanaccusemeofanything,Iliftafingerforhertoholdon,andusemyotherhandto

removemycellphonefrommybackpocket.Afteraquicktypeofhisnameinthesearchengine,Ileanthe

phone over for her to see. Jovi instantly gasps and snatches the device from my hands. With her mouth

agape,shelooksthroughthephotosandsocialmediaposts,disbeliefgrowingwitheverypassingscroll.

“Holy shit,” her voice barely whispers as I remove my cell from her loose grasp. “I knew I

recognizedhimfromsomewhere!IsawthephotosofhimplayingstrippokerwithMeeganMalone!”

Isneerunconsciously.

No! I'm not jealous! We've spent more time together than they did. We've seen each other

naked.I'mwillingtobetI'vehadmoreorgasmsfromhimthanshehad.TheonlythingI'mjealous

aboutherhavingexperiencedwon'tmatterbytheendofthenightbecauseIwillknowexactlywhat

that'slikeaswell.

“Yeah,he'sgotafetishfortrouble,”Isayatthesametimeheroundstherouteforhissecondlap.

ThistimeheliftshishandtowaveandIgivehimasmalloneinreturn.

“Isthatwhat'sbotheringyou?Thefactthatheusuallyspendshistimewithactresses?”

Her question redirects my eyes back to her. “And underwear models. Singers. Athletes. Artists.

Nottomentionothermembersofroyalty.”Doingmybesttobattlebackthebitterness,Isnap,“LikeIsaid

earlier,hecanhaveliterallyalmostanywomanhewants,andhe'sstillslummingitwithme.Ididn'tthink

I'dhavetoworryaboutsayinggoodbyebecauseIsworehe'dalreadybegonefrommylifebynow.”

Especiallygiventhefacthedidn'tgettosleepwithmeonourfirstorseconddate.

There's no immediate retort from my best friend. The crowd cheers in waves as people they

recognizejogorwalkbyandthewinterwindwhispersmoreferociouslythanithasallweek.

“And now that he's not, you don't know how to handle it. You don't know how to say goodbye

becauseyoudon'twantto.”

Ipressmylipstogether.

“You'reafraidhe'sgoingtoforgetallaboutyouwhenhegetsontheplanetomorrowandnomatter

whathesaysordoes,you'vealreadyconvincedyourselfthatthat'swhat'sgoingtohappen.Thatthat'show

all this is going to end. That this whole week is going to be thrown into the bucket of crazy college

momentsyoudon'tbelieveactuallyhappened.”Shebumpsintometogetmyattention.WhenIlookather,

shegivesmeakindexpression.“Butitdidhappen.Andhe's notgoingto forgetaboutyou aseasilyas

you're thinking. This is the happiest I've seen you since we met, Brie. Enjoy...whatever the two of you

haveandrememberyou'reactuallyspecialincomparisontoallthosewomenwhowerejustconquests.

Youdon'thavetohaveaspecialtitleorfancyjoborstrutaroundhalfnakedtograborkeephisattention.

He'sinlovewithwhoyouare,notwhatyoulooklikeorhowyourjewelsmatchhis.”

“You'reproudofthatjewelcomment,aren'tyou?”

“Littlebit.”

Ishakemyheadandfacetherunnersagain.“Andhe'snotinlovewithme.Noonefallsinlove

thatfast.”

“Idid.”

Okayfine.No29-year-oldguywhohasmadeasportofsleepingwithhispickoftheworld's

finestwomenwould.Also,nointelligent27-year-oldwoman.Shewouldn'teither,evenifhemakes

herlaughlikeneverbefore,smilelikehertroublescanactuallybefixedorscreaminunwavering

pleasureshehadonlywitnessedonShowtimeOriginalseries.

Kellan rounds his third lap. Like he can't control himself, his eyes gravitate to mine, which is

whenIplayfullystickmytongueoutathim.Hechuckles,shakeshishead,andreturnsthegesture.

“Yup...”Joviwhispersmatteroffact.“Totallyinlove.Questionis...whatareyougonnadoabout

it?”

Nothing.Absolutelynothing.

***

TheholeinthewallrestaurantaroundthecornerfromKellan'shotelhasthesamehomeyfeeling

thatmanyoftheotherplacesdowntowndo.Whilethewoodendécoritselfisn'tunique,thebarrelstyle

tablesandcornersofthebararewhatgiveitthelittletouchofindividualityrequiredtosurviveinthis

city. The bar itself is home to a multitude of common and uncommon beers on tap, including Kellan's

favorite.

MerrickdrapesanarmaroundJovi.“Sowhowon?”

“Wasn'tarace,”Kellanrepliesasthewaitressplacesaglassofbeerinfrontofhim.

“ThankGodforthat,”Hughstates.“Wewould'veraisedlessmoney.”

Iknowwhatyou'rethinking.HedefinitelylookslikeayoungPatrickDempsey.

“Didyouraisemuch?”Iask,reachingforthebeerbeingofferedtome.

“Verymuch,”Hughassurescheerfully.

“And whatever they raise from other donors at this run, I always personally match,” Kellan

informs.

“Whathappensiftheyraiseamillionbucks?”Merrickquestionsskeptically.

“ThenI'mnotgamblinginVegasthatspring,”hejokes,receivingasmalllaughfromaroundthe

table. His fingers slide over to link with mine. “Honestly, if the foundation were to raise that sort of

money,Iwouldn'thesitatetomatchit.It'sagreatcause.They'vehelpedchangethousandsoflives.Saved

hundreds.I'mhonoredtobeapartofit.”

There'sasmallcoofromtheotherwomenatthetable.

“AsmuchasIwishIcouldcallbullshitonthat,Ican't,”Hughmumblesandhasasipofhisbeer.

“Kellan'sbeenanactivememberinraisingfundsforyears.”

“IbecameactivewhenHughtookajobwiththem.”

“WhichwasthebestdecisionIevermade,”hestatesproudly.“Itwasinmyfieldofinterest.It

kept me close to my best friend.” His attention drifts to the woman at his side. “And brought me the

womanIlove.”

Sheawesandleansovertokisshim.

Afterthechastepeck,Merricksays,“WellI'mnotshittingcashoranything,butifyoueverneeda

volunteertopaintsomethingorhelpwithpaintrelatedprojects,I'mallyours.”

“Merrickcurrentlypaintselaboratemuralsindoorsandoutdoorsataprivatepreschool.Outside

changeswiththeseasons,buthealsohandlesthepaintingoftheirboothsfortheircarnivalsandthatsort

ofthing,”Joviexplainsbetweensips.

“He'sreallygood,”Iinsure.

“Weweretossingaroundtheideaofasummercarnival!”Dana'sentirefaceilluminates.“Maybe

atoneofthechildren'shospitals.Wemightneedyourservicesforthat.”

“Done,”Merrickstatesandgrabshiswater.

Yes.Responsibledrinkers.Onlyoneofthematatimeisallowedtogetwastedwithoutathird

persontodrive.Unfortunately,moreoftenthannotthatthirdpersonwindsupbeingme.

“I'dlovetobeapartofthat,”Kellansays,hiseyesmovingtomine.“I'dloveanyreasontoreturn

here...”

Ahintofasmilearrivesonmyface,whichpromptshimtoliftmyhandtohislipsforabriefkiss.

Thefeintfeelingofhismouthonmybodyforcesmybottomlipbetweenmyteeth.

Kellanleansoverandwhispersinmyear.“Youdrivememadwhenyoumakethatface...”

It's involuntary. Kinda just happens when I'm turned on or start to get turned on or am

abouttocome.Hm.That'sreallymoreofadesserttopic.Youknow,afterwe'veallhadafewtoo

manybeers....

“Areyougoingtostartreadingherpoetrynext?”Hughimmediatelyteases.

“Stopit,”Danascolds.“Ithinkit'ssweet.”

“IthinkHugh'sjustjealous,”Kellansighsreturninghisattentiontotheentiretable.“It'sbeenquite

awhilesincehe'shadtosharemyaffections.”

Hewinksandwesnickeratthebanterthat'sbeginning.

“Woeasme,”Hughmocks,liftingahandtohisforehead.“WhateverwillIdowithoutyouaround

toremindmewhybeerisbetterthanwhiskeyandhowaSt.Valmontesuitshouldneverbewornwithout

Malencinoshoes.”

“Drownintheoceanofmediocrity,”Kellanchortles.

“IfitmakesyoufeelanybetterHugh,Iturnedoneofthosesuitsintoanapkinonourfirstdate.”

Hisjawdropsinshock.“Really?”

“Wedon'thavetotalkaboutthat.”Hesqueezesmyhand.“Infactwedon'thavetotalkaboutour

firstdateatall.”

Iliftaneyebrow.“Embarrassed?”

Hegivesmeamischievouslook.“Foryou....Imeanyouweretheonewhohiredamaleescortto

gotoaMonsterTruckshow.”

There'sacollectivegasparoundthetablefollowedbyoneloud,“What?!”

And this why I can't possibly be in love with him. No one in their right mind would love

someonewhotheywannanutpunchthisoften.

Overthenextfewhours,thesixofusexchangequirkyembarrassingstories,laughatdatemishaps,

and munch relentlessly on appetizers. Hugh and Dana put back several beers while Jovi, Kellan, and I

quit after two. By the time our burgers are delivered, everyone is so comfortable around each other, it

feelslikewe'vebeendoingthisforyears.Likethisisaweeklyritual.

I hate it. I hate how easily he fits into my life and vice versa. I hate how our friends get

along.Ihatethatthiscan'tlast.Wait.No.Sh.Ididn'tsaythatlastpart.

“Tryit.”Kellanturnstomewithhisburgerheldout.“It'sdelicious.”

Swallowing the bite I had in my mouth, I give his dinner a suspicious examination. “Anything

unusualonitthatdoesn'tbelongthere?Peppers?Sprouts?Cornsprinkles?”

Hetiltshisheadatmecuriously.“Likecandycornsprinklesorpiecesofcornsprinkledonit?”

“Either.”

“Neither,”Kellaninsistswithasmirk.“It'sgotmushroomsandbluecheese.”

“Whatiswithyourhatredofnormalfood?”

“Ienjoywatchingyousquirmmore.” Jovi snickers and he pushes. “Come on. Don't be a pussy.

Haveabite.You'lllikeit.Maybeyou'llevenloveit.”

“You'relikeafoodrapist.”

There'sabriefsoundofsomeonelaughingthenachokingcough.OureyescutovertoseeMerrick

poundinghischestinastruggletobreathe.

Onceit'sclearhe'sallright,Ipointathim.“That'swhatyougetforbeinganenabler.”

“Itwasfunny!”

“Funnyenoughtodiefor?”

“StopmessingwithMerricktoavoidtastingit,”Kellanscolds.“Tasteit.”

Ifrownharder.

“It'seitherthatoracauliflowerchip.”

“See.Whatiswrongwithyou?What'swrongwithplainoldfashionfries?”

“Chips,”Kellancorrectswithasmirk.

I drop my mouth to argue when Hugh interrupts. “You might as well give up that victory now,

becauseit'snotgoingtohappen.Trustme.Wespentyearsarguingaboutwhatthey'recalled.Itwasnota

funadjustmenttocallthemthatwhilewewereinboardingschool.”

Myboyfriendsmilessmuglyagain.“Abiteorachip?”

Witharolloftheeyes,Icave.“Fine.I'lltryit.Butonrecord,they'refries.”Ihaveaquickbiteof

thestrangeburger,surprisedattheoddcombinationbeinglessdisgustingthanIimagined.

Stilldoesn'tbeattheallAmerican,baconcheeseburger.

“Gonnadie?”Heteases,placingitdownbackonhisplate.

Ratherthanmakeanimmediateretort,Idiponeofmyfriesinketchupandsmearabitonhisface.

“Longlivefries.”

“Yes!”Hughliftshisfistinsolidarity.

The table erupts into laughter while Kellan merely wipes away the mess. “First butter now

ketchup.”Mischiefappearsinhisbrightblues.“Please,tellmewhipcreamisatleastnext.”

Hissexualimplicationstealsabreathfromme.

Beforeourflirtationcancontinue,Danaquestions,“Didyousaybutter?”

“Doyoureallywannahearabouttheirkinks?”Hughinterjects.

“Probably since you don't have any of your own,” Kellan counters. “Unless you count the mut

shockcollaryouweararoundyourneck.”

“Youguysareintothatlifestyle?”JovisincerelyasksasIpushmyplateaway.

Danagiggles,whichiswhenHughhitsherwithaninebriatedgrin.“Sadlynot.Atleastnotthat

aspect...”

MybestfriendshiftsbesideMerrickwhotriestoredirecttheconversation.“Butter?”

“Wemeltedsomelastnightforthepopcorn,”Iexplain.“Sorrytogeteveryone'shopesuponthat

one.”

“Butteredpopcornbeforerunning?”Hughleansbackasthewaitressclearshisplate.“Youdon't

usuallyeatanythingremotelybadforyoubeforeanathleticeventofanykind.”

“Isthatwhyyouwerewheezingoutthere?”Itease,lovingthewayhisforeheadwrinkles.

“Iwasnotwheezing,”hequicklydefends.

“Youwerelikethelittlerunnerwhocould.Bythefourthlapwethoughtyouweregonnapassout.”

LaughterensuesandKellanpusheshisplateaway.“Perhapsifsomeonehadn'tdecidedthat1a.m.

was a good time to take an interest in the hit television show Doctor Who, once again confusing two

countries,Imightnothavebeensotired.Norneededthepopcorn.”

“You'renotBritish?”Merrick'squestionmakesmesmirk.

Kellanletsoutasighandhangshisheadindefeat.Welaughagainwhilethewaitressmakesher

waytograbourplatesnext.Atthatmomenthelooksupandsays,“Thetab,please.Tome.”

“Wecanpayforourmeal,”Merrickinsists,sittingupalittlestraighter.“It'snotabigdeal.”

He hates letting anyone else pay for his girlfriend. Being over protective is just his nature.

Jovisayshiswholefamilyisthatway.

“It'squiteallright,”Kellanargueskindly.“It'sapleasuretotreatmyfriendsandmy....”Theterm

almost falls from his lips yet he swallows it instead. He takes a beat before trying again. “My new

friends.”

Thatwasthebest,worstsaveever.

“ThankyouallforsupportingmetodayandmakingthistripthebestoneI'veeverhad.”

The start of his goodbye speech slowly begins to spill into my lungs making it hard for me to

breathe.

I'llbefine.Youcanstopgivingmethatlook.It'senoughthatJoviis.

Hughsneaksasubtleglanceatme.“Earlyflight?”

He'sreluctanttoanswer.“EarlierthanI'dlike...”

With the entire mood of the table shifted, the waitress bringing him the bill is a welcomed

deflection. He thanks her and begins to sign for the receipt while Jovi thanks him again for the food.

Anotherroundofthanksescapeseveryoneelse,eventuallyresultinginthedecisionforustopartwaysfor

theevening.WhileHugh,Kellan,andDanahugandbrieflymentionseeingeachotheragain,IassureJovi

andMerrickthatIdon'tneedaridehome.Merrickgetsreadytofurtherpushthesubjectbutisoverruled

byhisgirlfriendwithasternlook.OutsidethesixofuspartwayswithKellanandIheadingforhishotel

locatedtotheright.

“Whenever you're ready, Swiss and I will escort you home,” he sweetly promises, folding his

fingerswithmine.

TrepidationcollidesintotheshakytemperamentI'vebeendealingwithsinceImadethedecision

toenjoyourlastnighttogethertothefullestextent.“AndifIwouldrathernotgohome?”Hiseyesmeet

mineaswestopatthecorner.“Thenwhat?”

ForthefirsttimeKellanappearstoberenderedspeechless.

Ha.Iwashopingthatwouldhappen.

Ittakesaminutebutheeventuallyguarantees,“ThenI'llbringyouyourmorningbeverageinbed.”

Thelightchangestoallowustocross.

Uponenteringthehotellobby,hedropsmyhand,andinstructs,“Onemoment.”

IwatchhimshufflebacktoSwiss,explainsomethingthatreceivesseveralnods,andthensharply

spinaroundtoreturntome.Atmyside,helocksourfingersoncemorebeforeleadingmethedirectionof

theprivateelevatorswithhisbodyguardnowhereinsight.

Playfully,Isay,“Nobabysitterclosebytonight?”

Thedoorsdingopenandhequips,“Iknowalltheemergencynumbers...”

Forsomeunknownreasonourrideuptothepenthouseiseerilyquiet.

Wastheimplicationforsexenough?DoIhavetospellitout?I'mnotsureIcangetmuch

moreforwardwithoutbackingdown.Iknowitshouldn'tbethisbigofadealtohavesex,butitisto

me.Notjustbecauseit'sbeenacoupleofyearsbutbecausedespitewhatJovisaid,I'mstillslightly

afraidofbeinginadequateincomparisontotheothershe'sbeenwith.Gettinglostinaseaofopen

legswithoutfaces.ButIwanttodothis.IwanttobewithhimintheonlywayIhaven'tyet.Iwant

toexperienceeveryaspectofKellanKenningstonbeforehevanisheslikethewalkingdreamcome

trueheis.

Kellan shuts the penthouse door and leans his back against it. His mouth remains closed but his

eyesarecoatedincaution.Aftermuchinternaldeliberation,hedeclares,“I'llbefineendingourlastnight

together the same way we've spent all the others, Brie. We don't have to end up in bed together just

becauseI'mleaving.”

Itrytostillmyshakyvoice.“Iwannaaskmyquestionnow.”

Hearcheshiseyebrows.“What?”

“The first time we had dinner together. You told me I could have one no bullshit, completely

honestanswertoanyquestionIaskedwheneverIwanteditanswered.I'mreadynow.”

Hisvoicedropstoasoftertone.“Ask.”

“Ifwesleeptogether....willyouremembermyfacewhenyouleave?”Itakeabravestepcloserto

him.“AndIdon'tmeanforthefiveminutesafteryoudropmeoffinthemorningorthefirsthouronthe

plane.Willyouremembermyfaceasifitreallymatteredtoyouonceuponatime?”

Tomysurprise,hedoesn'timmediatelyanswer.FromwhereI'mstandinghedoesn'tevenappear

tobebreathing.

Wellthisiscomforting.

Kellan'seyestakeminehostageatthesametimehetakesastepforward.“Yes.”Slowly,hishand

liftstostrokemycheek.“Yourface.”Histouchleisurelylocatestomylipsstealingasmallgasp.“Your

kiss.” The tour continues down the front of my thin black long sleeve shirt. “Your curves.” When his

fingertipsgrazemynipples,Ilightlymoan.“Yoursounds.”Thistimeheuseshishandtopressmybody

against his. “Your name...” With our mouths just a breath away he states, “I will never forget you, Brie

Sanders.”

My mouth shamelessly slams against his. Almost instantly, our tongues mesh, melting away any

minusculeofapprehensionstilllingering.Muchlikeanytimeourbodiesarewithincloseproximitytoone

another, a ravenous hunger wreaks havoc, mutating light touches into greedy grabs and soft moans into

savagesnarls.Withinminutes,ourtangledlimbsarehittingthebed,ourclothesnothingmorethanamere

distantmemoryoftheday'sactivities.Forwhatfeelslikehours,werotateturnsofexploringeveryedge

of each other we can get our eager mouths around. While he holds his own orgasms at bay, mine flow

freelyexplodingwithsuchintensityI'mbeginningtodoubtI'llevenmakeittothenextpart.

AsIstruggletosteadymybreathing,IwatchKellangrababoxofcondomsfromhissuitcaseand

tossitonthenightstand.Carelessly,heripsopentheonehekeptinhishand,swiftlycovershimself,and

crawlsbackbetweenmyshakylegs.

Hisfingersdragthemselvesuptheoutsideofmythighlikeapredatoradmiringhisnewlytrapped

prey.

Ican'tthinkofanyoneelseIwouldratherhavedevourme.

Suddenly,herollsthetwoofusaroundpositioningmeontop.“It'syourshow,love.”

Withmyeyesconnectedtohis,Idragmyselfupandwrapmyhandaroundhiscoveredshaft.The

momentIdoIrelishthedeliciouswayhiseyesrollbackintohisheadfromthesimpletouch.Inoneslow,

tantalizing motion, I slip him between my wet heat, moaning through every stretch his cock is

commanding.

Kellan'sfingersdigintomyhipsatthesametimehewhispers,“Bloodyhellyou'retight...”

Idon'tattempttomove.“It'sbeenawhile.”

Agroanrumblesthroughhimcausingmymusclestoclench.“Months?”

Instead of facing possible humiliation, I begin to leisurely lift myself up and down, hoping the

distractionenticeshim.Anothergroanescapesandhiseyesthreatentoclosefrompureincessantcontent.

“Brie,”hefightstosay.“Howlong?”Hishipsthrustupwardtoechothecommandforananswer.

WhenIsimplymoaninreturn,herepeatstheactionharder.Nudgesdeeper.Caressestheneedtocomein

awayI'veneverexperiencedbefore.Anxioustofeelitagain,Iattempttoincreasemyspeedyethestops

completely.Hefirmlyquestions.“How.Long?”

Sexuallyflustered,Isnip,“Doesitreallymatter?”

HisheadtiltstothesideandthegrinI'vefoundafondnessforappearsinawayIknowI'mnot

goingtolike.“Doyoureallywanttocome?”

“Areyougonnaholdmyorgasmshostage?”

“Areyougoingtoforcemeto?”Hiscockpleadsinsideofmewithatwitch.“Howlong,Brie?”

“Years.”

“Howmany?”

“Two,”Ihuff.“Happy?Nowcanweplease-”

Kellan swiftly wraps a hand around the nape of my neck and tugs our mouths together. His free

hand pins me in place while his dick begins to ebulliently deliver new depths of ecstasy. Every harsh

heavecausesmypussytopulsateinapowerfulpleadformore.Iattempttopullmylipsawaytofreemy

moans,butitonlyspurshimtokissmerougher.Hismouthaggressivelyrefusesmyrequestandswallows

mymoansaspunishment.Theintemperatenessfromthecombinationofbeingdominatedyetworshiped,

controlled but only for the sake of my appeasement, becomes too much to bear. A blinding bliss burst

throughmyentirebodyandmypassionatescreamsoverpowerhisattemptatcontainment.

“GodKellan,”myvoicechantsinbreathlesspantsagainstthecrookofhisneck.

Allofasudden,hisarmstightlyengulfme,andalowrumbleripsfromhislips.“Bloodyhell...I'm

coming.”

Hisshuddersmergewithmineuntilwe'rebothcomingsohardmysoulaches.

Isthatathing?IsthatwhatsexissupposedtobelikeeverytimeandI'vejustbeenmissing

out?Ohshit...HaveIbeendoingitwrong?

Despite being winded, Kellan strives to explain, “It matters because it tells me whether to give

yourbodywhatitwants....”hisfaceturnstowardsmine,“orwhatitneeds.”Hesweetlypushesastrand

ofhairbehindmyear.“Andnowthatyou'vehadwhatyouneed,Iwillspendtherestofthenightgiving

youwhatyouwant....”

Istarttosmileatthesametimehedoes.

Toobadit'sonlyonenight...Iwouldlovetohavealifetimeofthis.But,likeI'velearnedthe

hardway,yourarelygetexactlywhatyouwant,soit'sbesttoenjoythelittlebitofwhatyou'regiven

no matter how much it may hurt when it's gone. Damn it. Now I've got that Rolling Stones song

stuckinmyhead....BetyoudotoonowthatImentionedit.Ha.You'rewelcome.

Kellan

ThesoundofBrie'sheavybreathingswellsmychestwithsatisfaction.

Ididthat.Iworeherouttopointshecollapsedinadeliciousdefeat.Tobetruthful,Iwas

directly behind her. The minute her eyes fell shut and her breathing steadied, I draped my arm

aroundherandfollowedsuit.WhileI'mnotquitesureexactlyhowlongwewerecompletelylostin

oursexualrhapsody,Idoknowit'stoosoonforthesuntobecaressingtheclouds.Itshouldstillbe

inbedlikethetwoofus.Ifit'srisingthatmeansthemostamazingweekofmylifehasfinallycome

toanend.AndI'mnotreadyforthat.Idon'tthinkI'lleverbereadyforthat.

Myfingergingerlygrazesthecurveofherback,enrapturedwiththewayshe'sdisplayedforme.

Herbodyslightlystirsasifunsurewhetheritshouldwakeformoreorcontinuetopeacefullyslumber.

Sheshouldalwayswakeupformore.Iwanthertoalwayswantmorefromme.Forhertobe

asindireneedofmeasIhavestumbledintobecomingindireneedofher.

Nowpalmingherbeautifullyfirmass,Ilowermytonguetotheexposedportionofherneckand

lasciviously lick, until it elicits a sacchariferous sigh. Swiftly, I slide my tongue between her slightly

partedlipsandnudgeherlegsapart.Myhandcasuallyslipstotheexposedterritoryandgentlyglidesa

fingeragainstit.Briehumsherapproval.Afteronefinalteasewithmytongue,Ipullback,reachoverto

thenightstandbesideher,andgrabacondom.

MorecleverthanIappear.Iputastashoneachbedsidetablesonomatterwhereweended

up,theywereeasilyaccessible.However,Ineverimaginedwecouldpossiblyriskrunningout.Had

wenotfallenasleepwhenwedid,wemighthave.Thatwouldhavebeenanewoneformeaswell.

Assoonasmydickisprotected,Iangleherlegalittlehigher,andsharplythrustthroughthetender

muscles.Sheinstantlysighsmynamelikeaforbiddenprayerwhileherpussysqueezesit'sreliefatmy

return.AlowgrowlfestersinthebackofmythroatandIpushdeeper,desperatetoreassureherthere's

isn'taninchinsideoroutthatwilleverbeforgotten.Relentlessly,Irock,almostpullingcompletelyout

each time just to have her scorching heat continuously seer my cock from root to tip. Between carnal

cries,Briefindsthesavagerhythmwithmeandusesonehandtotoywithherclit.Themomenttheother

carelessly clutches the sheet, I pin it in place, wanting nothing to distract from the intoxicating

abandonmentwe'vefalleninto.IwatchasthewomanIcan'teverseemtostopthinkingabout,slipsher

bottomlipbetweenherteethindicatinganorgasmisonlybreathsaway.Herbodyslowlybeginstoseize,

taking mine with it and everything else ceases to exist. Our moans endlessly oscillate and my eyes fall

shutenrapturedbytheeroticharmony.

Whydoesthisnolongerfeellikesex?WhyisiteverytimeItouchheritfeelslikesomuch

more?Whatisthis?What'shappeningtome?

Meresecondsafterpullingoutandswiftlydisposingoftheusedrubber,there'saknockingonthe

frontdoorI'mdreadingtoanswer.

“Who's knocking before the sun is even up?” Brie questions with a hint of somberness in her

voice.

SheknowsaswellasIdooursacredtimetogetherisalmostover.

IhitherwithaplayfulsmirkandgrabthepairofjeansIworetodinner.Quickly,Iheadoutofthe

bedroomandforthedoorwheretheknockingisgrowinginurgency.

WhenIopenit,Melindaextendsthetwocupsinherhands.“Yourwake-upcall,sir.”

AdeepsighleavesmedespitethefactIarrangedthis.“WhydoIfeelliketheymoved7a.m.?”

“Timealwaysseemstomovequickerwhenyoulivewithpassioninsteadofapathy.”Shegivesme

asmallsmile.“Yourbagswillbecollectedinanhourandyourrequestedpastrieswillbewaitingforyou

downstairswhenyoucheckout.”

“AndSwiss?”

“Alreadywaitinginthelobby.”

Igiveheracurtnod.“Thankyou.”

Shegivesmeanotherpolitegrinanddismissesherself.

BythetimeIarrivebackinthebedroom,Briehasalreadyslumpedbackbetweenthesheetsand

began to drift back the direction she came. Rather than wake her, I lean against the frame and silently

stare,anxioustochiselintomymemoryeverydetailpossible.

Lookathowhersoftbrownskinglimmersintheearlymorninglight.Thewayherlipsare

stillfullfromourkisses.Howshe'scurvedinasuchawaythere'sspaceformetoeasilyfitbeside

herasifwewerepuzzlepiecesratherthanpeople.WhythehelldidIeverthinkitwouldbeeasyto

walkawayfromher?

“QuitleeringatmelikeI'manewtieinyourcloset,”sheyawns,eyesstillclosed.“We'vetalked

aboutthis.It'screepy.”

Andherattitudeisthebowthatkeepseverythingtiedtogetherperfectly.

“Is that anyway to speak to the man who not only brought you to climax but brought you hot

chocolateaswell?”

Oneeyepopsopen.

“That'sright.”Ismirkandapproachthebed.“Ialwaysdeliveronmypromises,love.”

SherollsovertofacemethoughI'munsureiftheglowshe'sradiatingisfromsexorthetermof

endearment.

Which it is. It is a common term of endearment. Why are you asking me if that's the case

here?No.No,Idon'thavetimetohavethatargumentwithyouagainandpack.

Themomentthecupisinherhandsshehasalongsipandhumshergratification.“Indeedyoudo.”

Unable to resist our playful banter, I poke, “Are you referencing my promise to deliver you a

morningbeverageormypromisetogiveyouwhatwantedallnight?”

Shetiltsherheadandretorts,“Didyouthough?”

Myjawslightlyslacks.

Withavictoriousgiggle,shehasanothersip,andgivesmeareassuringwink.

Iwasn'tworriedwhetherornotIsuccessfullypleasedher.Iwasthere.Yourmouthcanfake

manythings,butyourbodycan't.Well.Ifyouknowwhattolookfor.

“Ihavetostartpacking...”IquietlydeclareatthesametimeIsitontheedgeofthebedbesideher.

Hershouldersdrop,butshenodsherunderstanding.“IguessIshouldgetdressed.”

“SinceIdon'twanttheroomattendantsseeingyourlusciousbodyinthisstate,Iwouldsaythat's

probably for the best.” This time when she smiles, I lean over and press my lips possessively against

hers.There'snoresistancetoletmemarkherinwhatIhatetobelieveisournexttolastkiss.

No...Ican'tstay.Ijust...Ican't.

WhilepackinghasbecomeaneasyroutineformethatIcanmindlesslyaccomplish,packingwhilst

engaged in tangled tongues and stolen strokes is a completely different matter. However, somehow,

everythingendsupbeingpreparedforthebellhopsattheirarrival.

IntheSUV,Brie'sleanedagainstmychest,silentlypickingattheraspberrycreamcheeseDanish,

doingherbesttoavoidthefruitportion.

Igiveherforeheadasweetkiss.“Youdoknowthatraspberriesaren'tpoisonous,right?”

“Theytastelikenature'soldcandy.”Shesucksthefillingoffherthumb.“Nexttime,weshoulddo

doughnuts.Ordoughnutholes.Orifyoujustinsistonbeingfancywecoulddocrepes.They'rebasically

thinpancakesyoucanstuffwithchocolate.”BeforeI'mgiventhechancetoreplyverballyorphysically,

shepullsherselfoutofmygrasp,andmutterstoherself.“Notthatthere'sgoingtobeanexttime,butin

casethereis-”Briecutsherselfoffandlockseyeswithme.“I'mtryingnottomakethisawkwardandam

failing.”

“Miserably,”IteaseinhopestoseeaglintofthetroubleI'vecometoadore.

Insteadsheshamefullyhidesherface.

Itwasajoke!Iwasn'tintendingtobeanasshole!

MyfingerstiltherchinandIstatefirmly,“Iwaskidding.”

Shetriestosmile.

“You're not the only one who's terrible at goodbyes,” I confess as the car pulls to a stop in her

apartmentcomplex.

“Whatdoyouusuallydo?”Shesnapsharshly.“Justtellthemthemoneyisonthenightstandand

thengrabashower?”

Sensing the defensive shift in her, I put down what's left of our breakfast, and slip our fingers

together.“I'mgonnaletthewhorecommentgobecauseIknowitwouldbeeasiertoleavewhileyou're

crosswithmeratherthan....”Theendofthesentenceabruptlyfadesintotheunknown.Iclearmythroat

and attempt to continue, “Most of the time, they decide to let themselves out. They thank me for the

amazingtime,leavetheirnumbersifIdon'talreadyhaveit,andgoontheirway.TherarecaseswhereI

havetoinitiatetheirdeparture,itmovesquitesimilarly.IannounceIhaveengagementstoattendforthe

dayandoffertoprovidethemwitharidehomeorwherevertheyneedtogo.Idon'tsaygoodbyes,Brie.

Goodbyes mean something and those women have always been meaningless.” Her grip tightens and I

reassure,“Sayinggoodbyetoyouisn'tsomethingI'mpreparedfor.I'mnotevensurehow...”

Allofasudden,shereachesupandgivesmycheekasmallstroke.Foramomentthetwoofus

merely stare into each other's eyes, studying their colors, their depths, their intensities. Afterward, she

leans over and gently pushes her lips to mine. They linger for what feels like an eternity before briefly

partingtogiveourtonguestheirlasttaste.

Briepullsawaymuchtoosoonandsighs,“Haveagoodflight,Kellan.”

Iattempttoswallowtheunexpectedknotinmythroat.

“Youcantextmewhenyoulandsafelyifyouwant...”

Withoutthought,Ireply,“Iwill.”

Shegivesmeonelastsmile,Swissapatontheshoulder,andbeginstoexitthevehicle.Iprepare

toaskifshewantsmetowalkhertoherdoor,ifshewantsthisgoodbyetostretchoutaslongasIdo,but

thedoorslamsshutgivingmetheanswer.

It's probably for the best. I can't imagine any good would come from prolonging the

inevitable.

Myeyesfollowhermovementsuntilshe'scompletelydisappearedfrommysight.InaweaktoneI

instruct,“Totheairstrip.”

Swissputsthevehicleindriveandmakeshiswaybacktowardstheentrance.Aswepullouton

themainroad,theloiteringlumpinmythroatamplifiestremendously.Ishutmyeyestightlyinapointless

attempttoforgetit'sthere.

It'llgoaway.Ithastoo.

ThesoundofmyphonevibratingunexpectedlypiercesmyearsandIrushtocheckit.Seeingthe

photoofmybrother'scheerfulmugduringanembracewithhiswifeonlyfurthersexpandstheblockageof

myvocalchords.

Ireluctantlyanswer,myvoiceslightlyhoarse.“Hello.”

“Don't tell me you're still sleeping,” Kristopher fusses. “You knew you had to fly this morning.

Howbloodyhung-overareyou?”

Thesideofmyheadhitsthewindow.“I'mnot.”

ThoughIwishIwere.IwishrightnowIwassoinebriatedIdidn'tknowmyownnamelet

alonehers.Thatwouldmakethepainbearable.

AsmalllulloccursbeforeKristophersays,“Areyouheadedtotheairstripnow?”

Swisspullsuptoanotherredlight.

It'simpressivehe'shiteveryonesinceweleftherapartment.

“Yes.”

Heimmediatelyhumsinrelief,“Good.”

“Good? As in you'll be pleased to have me back? Not enjoying the way my absence has been

loweringtheriskofyouhavingastrokeatanearlyage?”

“ItmeansIcansharethegraciousamountofattentionbrewingaroundtheValentine'sDayball,”

Kristophersighs.“ThemediaisinafrenzyoverconcerningthemselveswithwhatSophistowearand

which designers won't stop calling and what we'll be serving as the special treats for the couples....I'd

muchrathertheytripoverthemselvestryingtodecipherifyou'regoingstagorbringingalongthelatest

pieceofasstoeffortlesslyfallintoyourlap.”

Ihelplesslygroan.

Never once have I dreaded going to it. It's one of our family traditions started generations

ago. We open part of the palace to those deemed worthy by people who get paid to make that

distinction,showerthemwithextravaganteats,thefinestglassesofwine,andallowthemtofeela

touchofwhatpeopleperceivetobetheroyaltreatment.It'sabloodyjoke.Mostofthetraditionswe

stillkeeparoundare...

“WhydoeseveryonecarewhatI'mwearing?”Sophiagrousesinthebackground.“Ishouldweara

turtleneckandkhakis.That'llteachthemtovaluewhatIsaylessthanwhatIfuckingwear.”

ThesoundofhervoicebringsmeminorsolaceyetstrainsathoughtIhadsteadilybeenavoiding.

“IsthatSoph?”

“Ofcourseitis.Myotherwifewouldn'tmakesuchabigdealoutoftheannualball.”

“Yourotherwifealsolookslikeaspeckledfrognaked,”shequipsquickly.

“MayIspeakwithher?”

Heinstantlyasks,“Why?”

“Beforeyourbloodpressurespikes,youcanrestassuredit'snottodiscussyourmeasurementsof

anykind.”

Yes,eveninagony,I'mstillquiteabastard.

There's a shuffling sound and then a sweet voice, “His measurements will be cut in twain if he

bringsupthesubjectofthisdamndanceagain.”

“Ball.”

“WhatdoyouwantKellan?”

Iletoutadeepsigh,“Canwespeakinprivate?”

“Outoftheroom,”shefussesatmybrother.

AnexchangeofsomesortoccursbutmyattentionislostoutsidethewindowastheuniversityBrie

attendscompletelyfadesfromsight.

“Gone,”SophsingswithwhatIimagineisasmirk.

“Soph....”Islowlybegin,searchingforthecorrectwordstoconveyeverythingwhileconfessing

nothing.“Woulditbewrongtostay?”

Sheadjuststhephone.“Inthestates?”

“Yes.”

“Thatdepends.”

“On?”

“IfithasanythingtodowiththewomanyouhadClarencesearchforlastweek.”

Didyou...Didyoutellher?!

BeforeIcanprodforfurtherinformation,sheinforms,“Hementioneditthenextmorningonhis

waytoseeyourfather.Hecouldbarelykeepitin.Youknow,it'snoteverydayPrinceKellancallsfora

favorfromthein-housesecurityteam.”

Anothergroanescapes.

Great.JustwhatIneeded.Rumorsthat'llgetmyfatherinvolvedinmylife.Swearthestaff

gossipsmorethanthetabssometimes.

“Don'tworry,”Sophsaysdroppinghertone.“Itoldhimnottomentionittoanyone,yourbrother

included.Though...Krisdoeshatetheelusivenessyou'vecreatedaroundthesubject.It'sveryunlikeyou

togivesubtleclues,butneveranactualanswer.Hisfrustrationoverthesubjectishilarioustowatch.”

Instantly,Ismile.

“Butyoucanresteasy.HeridentityisstillamysterytoeveryonebesidesmeandClarence.”The

pauseisbrief.“Atleastitisuntilyoudon'tgetonthejettocomehome....”

Ipressmylipstogetherandshutmyeyes.“AmImadforwantingtostay?”

“You'remadforwantingtoleave.”

Youdon'thavetobesosnottyasyouagreewithher.

“Kellan,youdon'tfleefromthefirstwomanyou'veeverloved-”

“Ineversaid-”

“Itdoesn'thavetobesaidtobetrueorfelt.”Herquickassessmentofthesituationshutsmymouth

once more. “The fact of the matter is, if you weren't in love with this woman, you wouldn't be

contemplatingbetweenstayingorleaving.Youwouldn'thavespentthepastweekbraggingaboutspending

timewithheryetneverlettingtheworldknowwhosheis.Andyouwouldn'tbetalkingtomeinhopesof

soothingyourfears.”

DidImentionmybrother'swifeissassyandbrilliant?

Myvoiceweaklyargues,“Whatifit'samistake?”

“It'snot.”

“Butwhatifitis?”

“Howcoulditpossiblybeone?Thisisthefirsttimeinyourentirelifeyoufeltlikestayingstill

insteadofrunning.Howisexploringthatnotagoodidea?Howisexperiencingtheonethingyou'veyetto

trulyexperienceamistake?”Herwordsburrowthemselvesdeepintothebonesofmyrigidbody.“You

havetomakethisdecisionallonyourown,Kellan.Butyoushouldknow,eitherway,whetherIseeyouin

a few hours or you send home an empty jet, we love you. Despite any stunt you pull, for better or for

worse, we always will.” All of a sudden there's additional voices in the background and she sighs. “I

havetogo.Apparently,yourfatherhasrequestedIspeakwithanewstylist.”

Istiflemychuckle.“Bestofluck.”

“Inthisfamily?I'llalwaysneedit.”

Thecallendsjustaswearriveatthelightbeforetheairstrip.

“Totheright?”Swissasks,glancinginthereviewmirror.

With the private strip that direction and the possibility of gaining something I had no clue even

existedtotheleft,mybackslamsagainsttheseatuncertainofwhattodonext.

IguesstheimportantquestionIshouldaskiswhichwaywillleavemefeelinglikemydays

wereworthliving...

Brie

“Missedyouatdinner,”mydadsaysintothephonebetweensmacks.

Iplacemysketchpaddownonmybed.“SorryagainthatIcouldn'tmakeit.”

Hehumsthroughthesuckingofhisteeth.“Schoolfirst.Weunderstand.”

Thatwasmainlythecase.AfterIcriedmyselfintoaminorexhaustioncoma,Iwokeupand

startedworkingonthefinalpieceofmyportfolio.I'vebeendeliberatingoverwhatitshouldbefor

months,butwhenIwokeupIknewexactlywhatIwantedtodo.Iimmediatelygrabbedmysketch

padandhavebeenworkingondraftseversince.

“Dad,whyareyoumunchingonFreddie'sFriedChicken?”

Helightlychuckles.“How'dyouknow?”

“Youmakeaveryspecificsoundwhenyou'reslingingbackthatkindachicken.”

“It'sjustsogood,”hecroons.

“Whathappenedtodinner?Momdecidenottocook?”

“Yoursisterdecidedweshouldtrysomethingnew,sotheyconcoctedthisMediterraneanQuinoa

salad with this berry vinaigrette and teeny tiny pieces of shrimp.” He grunts and starts smacking again.

“Gonnacancelthefoodnetworkifshekeepsthisshitup.”

Ihelplesslysmile.

ObviouswhereIgetmyfoodhabitsfromnow,huh?RightdowntohowIcompromise.

“Youknowsometimes,Dad,it'sokaytotrynewthings.Sometimesyouevenenduplikingthem.”

Orinmycaseloving...No.Idon'twannatalkaboutKellan.

“Thisisnotoneofthosetime,”hedeclares.Afterashortpause,hegroans,“Ohno...That'syour

mothercalling.She'sprobablywonderingwhereIam...”

Myfacedropsintomyopenpalm.“What?!Shedoesn'tknowwhereyouare?”

“ToldherIneededtopickupafriend.”

“Youlied.”

“Idon'tconsideritalie.”

“Friedchickenisnotyourfriend!”

“Wellitisn'tmyenemyeither!”Ishakemyheadatthesametimehesighs,“Ishouldanswerthat.

Callmelaterthisweek?Whenyouhavesomefreetime?”

“Ofcourse,dad.”

“Maybewecansqueezeinaquickburger.Oranotherbucketofthischicken...”

WeexchangequickIloveyousbeforeendingourcall.Strangelyenoughjustsecondsafter,there's

aknockonmydoor.Thefirstallday.

Believeitornot,Jovihasn'tcometocheckonmebeforethismoment,whichistotallyoutof

characterforher.ShedidhavetoworkthismorningandwasgonebeforeIgothomebutIexpected

her to barge right in the minute she stepped through the door. Hm. Maybe she did and I was too

knockedouttonotice.

“Comein,”Icallandsheinstantlyopensthedoor.

Jovileansagainstthedoorframe.“Youokay?You'vebeenshutinhereallafternoon.”

Withasweetsmile,Ilie,“I'mfine.”

OkaysoI'mnotfinerightnow,butIwillbe.Eventually.IfIcanfallinto......whateveritisI

wasdumbenoughtofallintothispastweekquickly,thenthatmeansIshouldbeabletofalloutjust

asfast.Denial?Mostlikely.Butcouldyoujustletmelivehereforabit.It'seasierthanthinking

abouthowmuchmychestliterallyacheswhenIthinkabouthim.

“Fine?”Jovirepeatswithskepticism.

“Alittletired.”Myconfessioncauseshertobackdown.“Didn'tsleepmuchlastnight.”

An excitement fills her eyes. “Please tell me it's because of the reason I'm thinking and not

becauseyoudecidedtobingewatchsomethingtogether.”

Iletmygringrowwild.“Definitelydidn'twatchanythingbuteachotherlastnight.”

Hermouthcracksopen.

“Andagainthismorning.”

Jovi'shandsflyoverhermouthasshegigglesprofusely.

Doesn'tmatterhowoldwomenget.Weallgetalittlemawkishwhenromanceisinvolved.

“Whyareyousquealing?”Merrick'svoicequestionsfromthelivingroom.

Shegivesmean'oops'lookandIcallout,“BecauseIsaidIwouldleavemyroomtobearound

thetwoofyoudespitemyowndesireforsolitude.”

Jovimouths'thankyou'asIgathermysketchpadandpencils.

Enteringthelivingroom,I'mstartledbythesightoftextbookssurroundingMerrickfromhisspace

onthefloorclosertoJovi'sbedroom.Myheadtiltsinbemusement.“Areyoutryingtobuildafortoutof

textbooks?”

Hehitsmewithascowl.“Thatwouldactuallybefunforme.”

“Idon'tdoubtit,”Isigh,floppingdownontheedgeofthecouchclosesttomyroom.

“He'sstudying,”Jovianswersovermyshoulder.“Andhe'sgoingtokeepstudyingorhe'sgoingto

gotohisapartmentandstudy.Eitherway,hewillbestudyingsomethingtonightandit'snotmyanatomy.”

Thescowldeepens.

Doubtheeversawhischeapcommentcomingbacktobitehimlikethat.

Sheslidesontotheotherendofthecouch.“Whataboutyou?Whatareyouworkingon?”

I drag the coffee table closer and drop my sketch pad on top of it. “Early sketches for the final

pieceofmyportfolio.”

Asmallgrincreepsonherface.“Ohyeah?Finallyfoundsomeinspiration?”

Rather than admit anything, I turn the question around. “What about yours? Have you started on

it?”

“BeenworkingonitsinceAugust,”sherepliesconfidently.

“Painting?”

“That's his skill set.” Her head nods Merrick's direction. “Not so much mine I've discovered. I

mean,peoplesayI'vegotaneyeforspottingtalentofthatmedium,butIactuallypreferphotography.My

finalpieceistheblendingofthreephotos.OnefromwhereIusedtoliveormy'oldlife'andonefrom

hereormy'newlife'andapiecethatconnectsthem.”

Jovi'sfacedriftsoverhershoulderwhereherboyfriendissittingupwithasenseofpride.

AnothersmilespreadsonmyfaceandIdropmyattentiontomysketchpad.

Art doesn't always imitate life. Sometimes it's just trying to cement it. That's why the best

pieces of art are often the ones that contain a memory or story that deeply speaks to the artist.

Doesn'tmatterifit'smusicorwritingorphotography.Ifitmovedorspoketothecreatorit'sgoing

tomoveorspeaktotheaudience.GuessitmakessensethatKellanwouldbethesubjectofmyfinal

piece.

Theknockatthedoorimmediatelygrabsourattention.

“Igotit,”Merrickinsists,standingup.“It'sthepizzaweordered.”

“Youhungry?”Joviasksmeafterhedropsaquickkissonhercheek.

IshakemyheadandreturntoattemptingtoperfecttheeyeshapingI'vebeenworkingonforthe

pasthour.

Haven't eaten anything since that pathetic excuse for a breakfast treat. Who on earth puts

fruitintheirdanish?Fruitisasideatbreakfast.Notatopping.

“You'renotthepizzaguy,”hegrunts,causingusbothtoturnaround.

“Sadlynot,”Kellanstatesasheentersourapartment.

Myjawbecomesunhinged.

Ishe...Isheactuallystandinginourapartment?Areyousurewe'renothallucinating?Can

multiplepeoplehavethesameexacthallucinationattheexactsametime?

InavoiceIhardlyrecognize,Iask,“Whatthehellareyoudoinghere?”

“IsthisnotDoctenn?”

Hisjokedoesn'tchangemyshockedexpression.

“My flat won't be ready until tomorrow afternoon and I was wondering if you wouldn't mind

lettingmestaythenight?Perhapscrashonyourcouch?”

WithouthesitationI'monmyfeetandracingacrosstheroomtohim.Igrabhimbyhisshirtand

capturehislipswithsuchferocityitslightlyknocksKellanastepbackwards.Hishandsfalltomyhips

wheretheylockinacleardeclarationthatthisiswherehebelongs.

Wherewebothbelong...

WhenIpullback,hisgringrows,andheslylyinquires,“Isthatayes?”

My hands slide down the front of his shirt at the same time Merrick interjects. “Did you say

couch?Whywouldn'tyousleepinherbed?”

Kellan'seyeslingerinmine.“She'squitethebedhog.”Hiseyebrowsliftinaplayfulchallenge.

“Plus,shesnores.”

Iinstantlysmirk.“Youfart.”

Acrimsoncolorthreatenshischeeksbuttomysurprisehelaughs.“Neverhadawomansaythat

before.”

“Doesn'tmeanitisn'ttrue.”

Hissmilesoftens.“Maywespeakinprivate?”

Linkingourhands,Ileadustowardsmybedroom,givingJovionefinalglancetoseeherbarely

abletocontainherjoy.

Allofasuddenthere'sanotherknockatthedoorandMerrickannounces,“Thatbetterbethepizza

guyandnotanotherBritishdude.”

“Doctenn!”KellanshoutsinreturnbeforeIshutthedoor.

I keep my hand on the handle behind my back, still in disbelief this isn't some weird delusion.

Whenoureyesconnect,Icanfeelmyheartclawingbackupmythroat,theveryplaceitwaswedgedthis

morningduringourgoodbye.“You'restaying?”

Kellanslipshishandsintohissuitpantspocketsandnods.“Yes.”

Ibreathlesslyquestion,“Why?”

“There are at any given time a number of things I dread about returning to Fayweather, but I

realizedthismorning,thethingIwoulddreadthemostisbeingthousandsofkilometersfromyou.”

Asweetsighescapes.

Youtoo?

“Brie,I'mfortunateenoughtohaveajobIcandofromliterallyanywhereintheworldthathasa

Wi-Fi connection, however, there is only one place in the world that contains that and the woman I'm

absolutelymadabout.”Hetakesaboldsteptowardsme.“Idon'tthinkweshouldsaygoodbyeifwedon't

haveto...”

Finally,Ireleasethedeathgriponthedoorknobandapproachcloser.“Whatifthingsdon'twork

out?Whathappenswhenyougrowboredofthisplace?You'reusedtoplacesthatrequireyoutowearthe

nine-hundred-dollarsuityou'resporting.Notholeinthewallburgerjoints.”

“Thousand.”

“What?”

“Thesuit.It'sninethousand.”

Iletmyjawdropagain.“Seriously?Whatiswrongwithyou?Whoflieshomeinanine-thousand-

dollarsuit?!”

“It'stheonlyonethatwasclean!”

Disbeliefshakesmyhead.

AsmuchasIwanthimtostay,andbelievemeI'madmittingtoyouthat'smorethanIever

thought possible, he needs to go home. He needs to be in his comfortable settings. He needs...He

needstofindsomeonewhofitsinwithhislifenotforcinghimtofitintotheirs.

“Andasuitattheendofthedayisjustasuit.Andaburgerisjustaburger.It'sthepersonyou

havethoseadventureswiththatmatters.”

Hispointdropsmydefensiveshoulders.

“It'sthepersonyouwanttowakeuptoeverymorning.It'sthepersonwhoannouncesinaroom

fullofherfriendsthatherboyfriendfartsinhissleep.”

Igiggleatthevictoryofembarrassinghim.

Yes.Iampurposelyignoringtheboyfriendremark.

“We'vespentthelastweekcompromisingandI'mconfidentwecancontinueto.”

Mysmilebrightensforjustabriefmomentbecauseinsecurityprevailspromptly.“Whathappens

whenyougetboredwithme?”

Kellan'sfacehardensinseriousness.“Not.Possible.”

Ofcourseit'spossible!I'mthefirstwomanhe'shasn'ttreatedlikeshe'sgotanexpiration

dateonherass.I'llonlybethenewandinterestingthingforsolong.Thenwhat?Thenwesuffer

this goodbye thing on a permanent basis? Then I have to wonder about him loathing my name

rather than just remembering it? Then the struggle to move forward, to move on past this one

incredibleweekbecomesalifetimebattletoforgethowamazingweweretogether?

“Stopoverthinkingthis,”hecommandsatthesametimehishandsslinkdownmylowerbackto

cup my ass. “We'll figure it out as we go. What works and what doesn't. Isn't that what dating is all

about?”

Damnit.Hedoesn'tgettobewitty,romantic,andlogical.

Iletmysmilereturnandnod.

“Good.Nowthatwe'reonthesamepage,getnaked.”

Ah.Howherestoresbalance.

When I lift my eyebrows in defiance he grips my ass a little tighter. “I've spent the entire day

looking at flats as well as furnishings for them. I've spent the last hour looking at beds and mattresses,

with the thought of you being naked on them taunting me the entire time. So, for the love of Christ, get

naked.”

His hardened cock gives me a light tap of encouragement through his pants. With a flirtatious

smirk,Icommand,“Manners.”

Kellanimmediatelygroansandimplores,“Pleasegetnaked.”

Istepbackoutofhistouch,letmybottomlipslipbetweenmyteeth,andslowlyremovemyyoga

shorts.Themixtureofarousalandreliefonhisfacerushesthroughmysystemcausinganidenticaleffect.

My biggest fear between us was being just another nameless face to him, but now I'm

worriedaboutwhathappenswhenhebecomesthefaceofmybrokenheart.What?Ofcoursethisis

goingtoendinheartbreak.Sorry.Thisisn'tafairytale.Everygirlisnotsecretlyaprincesswaiting

fortherightpairofshoestochangeherlife.There'sawholelistofwomentheprincemeetsand

chasesbeforethosestoriesbegin....IguessI'mgonnaenduponKellan'slistofconquestsoneway

oranother.MightaswellenjoyitwhileIcan.

Kellan

“It'sbeensixweeks.Surely,you'llbereturninghomeanydaynow,”mybrotherinsists.

Iturnaroundfromwherethesunisfinallybeginningtotouchthetipsoftheskyline.

It has been six weeks and to say they have been the best six weeks I've ever experienced

wouldbetheunderstatementofalifetime.Notonlyhavetheybeenfilledwithweekendsofendless

sex,but I'vecome toappreciate theother benefitsof stayingin oneplace suchas drivinga car, a

comfortable couch, and home cooked meals. Though, Brie is a dreadful cook her mother is quite

exquisite. We enjoy dinner with her parents Sunday evenings typically after exhausting all our

efforts to work up an appetite for something other than one another. Considering this is the first

timeI'vehadanactualgirlfriend,it'sthefirsttimeI'vemetawoman'sparentsforthatparticular

reason.They'redelightfulandabsolutelyadoreme.ThatlastlittletidbitdrivesBrieslightlymad.

SeeingthelookofconcernonKristopher'sfacefromtheotherendofthecomputercausesmeto

smirk.He'ssittingatthedeskinthedownstairslibrary,theverysameroomhewaschewingmeoutinfor

not'growingup'onedaybeforeImetthewomanwhoremindedmeofwhyhewaswrongaswellasright.

We'renotevergoingtoadmitthatlastline.

“Separationanxiety?”Itease,leaningbackinthepatiochair.

Kristopherrollshiseyes.“Ifbyseparationanxietyyoumeantheneedtosharethespotlightwith

myveryrowdy,usuallyveryabrasiveyoungerbrotherthanyes.Youhavebarelymademorethanalight

splashinthesepastfewweeks.Yoursuddenlackofneedingattentionhasshiftedthefocustoscrutinizing

every,single,detailofmymarriage.AreyouawarethatSophhasbeenaccusedofbeingpregnantthree

timesinthepastmonth?It'sstressingherouttothepointshewon'teatinpublic.”

Thesunlandsonthepoolwateracrossfromme,relocatingmyattentionwithit.

Having a balcony connected to your bedroom is one thing, but having a balcony with a

privateheatedpoolattachedandanoutsidebreakfastnookareadirectlybesideitisanother.Doyou

know how incredible it is to have a morning workout in the pool and then enjoy breakfast naked

immediately after? Do you know how amazing it is this is even possible? Another one of the

beautifulbenefitsofplayingcoywherethemediaisconcerned.Theyhaven'tthefaintestideawhere

Ireallyam.

“Kellan,” he states loudly in hopes of regaining my focus. “In our entire lives, you have never

beenthissilentabout....anything.”

“I'mnotsilent.I'mjustnotshoutingitfromtherooftops.”

“LikeIsaid.Silent...”

“HasiteveroccurredtoyouthatperhapsI'mnotquitereadytohavemyrelationshippotentially

ruinedbythemedia?”

“No.”

Hisquickanswerforcesmetoscowl.

“Youlovetheattention!”Kristhrowsahandintheair.“Youlovethepraise.Youlovethenegative

reinforcement of your wild behavior. You've been steadily on a war path to let no one forget the

Kenningstonnamesincemumdied.”Hereadjustshimselfinhisseatandleansforward.“Youdon'tjust

stopbeingwhoyou'vealwaysbeenbecausesomewomanletyouseehernakedforanextendedperiodof

time.”

Myeyessuddenlycatchaglimpseofthetopicofourdiscussionmovingmydirection.Unableto

resistwatchinghermovements,IletmyheadfalltothesideasIadmirethecurvesIwouldgiveupthe

Kenningstonnameforwithoutquestion.Thesmoothnessofhercoffeecoloredcomplexion.Thelightness

inherstepsbecauseburdensseemnon-existentwhenwe'retogether.

“Noneofthathaschanged,”Imutter,attentionstillplasteredontheminxthatisapproachingthe

doorway.“Justbecausetheworldhasahardertimedocumentingmyfundoesn'tmeanI'mnothavingany.”

Brieleanshernakedframeagainstthewallrightontheothersideoftheslidingdoor.

Bytheway,funfact,anyonewhoownsapenthousewalksaroundnakedknowingnooneelse

cancatchaglimpse.Well,probablycan'tcatchaglimpse.

Desperatetohaveherinmylapratherthancontinuetohearmybrothercomplain,Ipreparetoend

theconversationwhensheshakesherheadslowlyandmakesahandmotiontocontinuetalking.

Withouthesitation,Iglancebackhisdirection,andstate.“Changethesubject.”

“But-”

“Now.”

Hiseyebrowsliftinquestiononlytoreceiveasternexpressioninreturn.Sensingthereasoning

why,hesays,“Brunchwasratheruneventful.”

Thechoiceintopichardensmyface.BeforeIhaveachancetoinformhimhowIdon'tcarewhois

potentiallysleepingwithwhotokeeptheso-calledpeacebetweenworlds,Brie’smovementsbeginagain

except this time in an unexpected fashion. She slowly drags one finger down her chest taking my eyes

helplesslywithit.

“Therewasoneparticularmomentyoumightfindhysterical...”

Her finger slips between her thighs and sinks into the depths that I claimed as only my own. I

preparetocommandhertostopwhenshewinks,dropsherbottomjaw,andreleasesasilentmoan.

She'spurposelyfuckingwithme...whileI'monacallwithmybrother.

“Areyouevenlistening?”KristopherhuffswhenhenoticesI'mnot.

Brie'smovementsceaseandhereyesencouragemetocontinuetheconversation.

“Yes,”Iliereadjustingthecomputerscreentomakeitlessobvioushe'sbecomeapropinasexual

rouse.“YouwereramblingonaboutSirConanLedgeranddeviledeggsandhispoorlygluedontoupee.”

Bothpeoplenowpleased,theyeachreturntotheirverydifferenttasks.Kristopherbeginsthestory

againwhileIpretendtostareonwithcompletefocus.Thefactheisunawarewhatishappeningonthe

othersideofthescreenstiffensmyalreadyhardcocktothepointofpainful.Ifoldmyhandsinfrontofme

toblockanypossibleproofmyattentioniselsewhere.Briemovesherhandslightlyfasterthanshewas

beforeandletsherheadhitthewall.Myeyes,whicharestrugglingtokeeptheirattentionsplit,pendulate

aimlesslybetweentheexpressiononherfaceandactionsofherhand.

“Hysterical,right?”

Iofferhimaforcedchucklewithmynod.

Briewinks,bitesherbottomlip,androcksherhandfaster,anorgasmclearlyinhersights.

Thisconversationhastoendsoonbecausethemomentshecomes,andImeanthemoment

shecomes,I'mgoingtotakeherandshowherwhyorgasmsfrommearealwaysbetter.

“Speakingofunhappyroyalty,fatherhasarequestofyou.”

Of all the things possible of killing the hard on I'm sporting he offers the one with the

highest possibility. My brother is a world class cock block. From an early age, I swear! He's the

reasonIhadtostartmasturbatingonlyatnighttimewhenwewerehome.Intrusivebastard.

Brie'slegslightlybuckle.Thesightgrabsagrowlfromme.“Notinterested.”

“Please,”Kristopherbeginstobeg.“You'realreadyinthestates.”

“No.”

Herjawbeginstoshakestealingmysanityintheprocess.

“It'sjustaonenightevent.”

“No.”

“Kellan,”hisvoicerisescommandingmyfullattention.

Ratherthanlookcompletelyathim,IgesturemyhandtoassurehimI'mlistening.

WhichI'mnot.Nottohim...Nottothebirdorcarshonkingfaintlydownbelow.No.Theonly

thingI'mlisteningtoarethemutedmoansescapingmygirlfriend'spartedlips.

“Look,it'safewweeksawayinNewPalsquire.Plentyoftimetomentallypreparehavingtodo

thefamilyabloodyfavor.”

Herfreehandsuddenlycombsthroughherhair,yankingitassheteetersontheedgeofecstasy.

Fuck,Iwanttobetheonetopushherover.

“It'safundraisertohelpfeedthosestarvinginthirdworldnations.It'sbeinghostedbyVictoria

Chasizer,theMarlesqueerbornactresswhohasthehugehardonforhostingDoctennfriendlyeventsin

thestates.Youknowtheonewhoisalwaystryingtofuseourcountriestogether.Anyway,it'llmainlybe

filledwithcelebritiesandothermoneyhungrybastardsdesperatetoshowtheycareaboutsomethingother

thanthemselves...”

“Father can't be bothered to help fight the increasing homeless child population in his own

country,buthasnoproblemthrowingcashatafundraiserthat'snothingmorethanapublicitystunt.”My

irritationbeginstooutrankmyarousal.“Bloodyhypocrite.”

“Pleaseconsidergoing.Itwoulddowellforoneofustobeseenthere.Plus,ifyouattendthat,

he'llprobablyletyououtoftheSpringbanquetthisyearforhavingfulfilledadifferentsocialobligation.

Besides, they have a silent auction and you'll be allowed to bid on expensive things in his name for a

goodcause.”

I prepare to snap in complete refusal when the moment I've been waiting for arrives. Brie's

beautiful chest starts to heave profusely while she recites my name in restrained repetition. Her cries

clawtheirwaythroughmeconvincingthehardonthatwasbeginningtowavertostayforthelonghaul.

Withallmyattentionnowonmybleary-eyedlove,Imumble,“I'llconsiderit.Ihavetogo.”My

brother'svoicestartssomesortofretortbutit'scutoffbytheclosingofmylaptop.Aslysmilecoversmy

expression.“Didyouenjoytorturingme?”

Briegivesmeawidegrin.“Didyouenjoybeingtortured?”

“NotasmuchasIwould'veenjoyedyoulettingmebetheonetogetyouoff,”Isighbeforeadding,

“butperhapswecanrearrangethatnow.”

Sheshakesherheadassheslowlysauntersovertome.

Iinstantlyfrown.“Whatdoyoumeanno?”

“Imean,”hervoicesfillswithheat,“let'seventhescoreabit.”

Withasultrysmirk,shelowersherselftoherkneesinfrontofme,andglidesherhandovermy

gymshorts.

Ablowjobonthebalcony?Whatblokecouldeversaynotothat?

Afterrearrangingmychairtoallowherbetteraccess,Brietugsmyshortsoffanddiscardsthem

carelesslyoverhershoulder.Themomentmycockisfree,hertonguesnakesouttolickawaytheweeping

drops her sexy show created. A sharp hiss is proceeded by a long deep sigh while I watch my dick

disappear into her eager mouth. Thoughtlessly, my head falls backwards and I gently wind my fingers

through her hair for leverage. Brie immediately hums her approval of the action, which only makes my

dick swell more. Her tongue relentlessly shifts between bathing my cock like it's a goddamn royal gem

andheedlesslysuckinglikeit'stheonlythingsheintendstohaveforbreakfast.Themomentshechanges

tactics to guide my dick deeper down her throat, my fingers twitch to hold her head in place, the new

actionmakingmedelectablydizzy.Myhipscontinuouslyrolltofeedhersexualstarvationuntilthere'sa

tightening at the base of my balls. At that moment, Brie's fingers dig into my thighs while I anchor her

mouth in place, unsure of who's more desperate for a drop to not be spilt. I lazily roll my head back

aroundjustinthetimetoseeherswallowthelastbitofherrewardforaflawlessexecution.

TrustmewhenIsayabsolutelyflawless.I'vehad...Well...It'sbestnottoaskagentlemanjust

howmanyblowjobshe'shadinhislife,butregardlessofthenumbersheisbyfarthebest.Headof

the class...Oh...Don't be a poor sport. That was clever this time since it was being delivered as a

complimentasopposedtoawaytoruffleherfeathers.

Brieleansbackontoherheels.“Scorestied.Nowtherealfunbegins...”

Ireleaseasmallchortleandwetmylipsinanticipation.

The fun began six weeks ago when I was dragged to a terrible art showing only to meet a

larger than life struggling art student. The impressive part is it hasn't let up once. It's mind

bogglingtomethatIcanhavesomuchendlessfunwithoneperson.AndnotjustdoingthethingsI

personallyenjoylikecatchingTheRobbery,aclassicplay,attheMulaneTheaterdowntown,butthe

thingsIneversawmyselfinvolvedinlikedartcompetitionsonTequilaTuesday.OrhowI'vecometo

love watching Brie attempt to walk far distances in her heels with Dana, while Brie nearly wets

herself from my hatred of listening to her friend’s strange Van Gogh obsession. Then there's the

simplethingslikehowshestudiesinmyofficewhileIgooverreportsorconferencecallsforthe

company.Ilovehowevenwhenwe'reapart,we'restilltogether.There'smorefunin'ordinary'and

compromisingthananyonelet'son.Usethismorning’seveningofthescoresasanotherexample.

Nowifyou'llexcuseme,Ihavetoputmorepointsontheheadboard.

Brie

IanxiouslyrockonmyfeetasItrytoseearoundthepeopleinlineinfrontofus.

Kellanlightlychuckles.“Youcan'tpossiblybethatexcited.”

Frustratedwithmyfruitlessefforts,Ifinallygiveup,andreturntowaiting.“Ican.AndIam.”

Hishandslidesaroundmywaistandhesmuglysaysinmyear,“Howaboutinsteadofthiswedo

somethingelsethatmakesyouthisexcited?”

Temptationinstantlyrunsrampant.

Ihaveneverhadthismuchsexinmyentirelife.I'vealsoneverbeenthisinsatiablebefore.

In two months I went from basically ready to devote my body to a convent to barely being able to

walk across campus some days. Complaining? Absolutely not! What woman in her right mind

would ever bitch about having a guy exhaust every effort he has every time in bed? Kellan's

reputationisironcladandcockinesswelldeserved,butlet'snotmentionthattohim.Imeannever

mentionthattohim.

Wigglingoutofhisgrasp,Ishakemyhead.“No.Wecandothatafter.”

Hegroansandletshisheadfallbackwardslikeabratbeginningatantrum.

“Hey,Isqueezedmyselfintothatbacklesscocktaildressyouboughtmetoeatabugandpart of

Bambi'smotherforyouearlierthisweek.Theleastyoucandoisindulgemyloveofartforhalfanhour.”

Kellanlaughsashisheadlowersforoureyestomeet.“Itwasasnail.Notabug.”

“Snailsarebugs.”

“Snailsarenotbugs.They'reinacompletelydifferentspeciesclass.”

“InAmericathey'rebugs.”

Theyaretoo!

“They'renotbugsinAmericaoranyothercountryforthatmatter.”

“Whatever,”Imumbleandfoldmyarmsacrossmychest.“Regardlessifthey'reabug-”

“Whichtheyarenot-”

“Iateoneforyouwithsnotsaucedrizzledontopofit-”

“Pesto-”

“Anddidn'tpukealloveryour10,000-dollarsuit.”

“Seven.”

Hiscorrectionreceivesaglower.“Enduringyourfoodwarfarecomesatacost.”

“Ithoughtthatwasalreadypaidinthebackofthelimo,”hebeginswithasmirk.“Andthenagain

intheelevatorandoncemoreinthedoorwayofthepenthouse.”

He insisted! We were celebrating our two-month anniversary, which should've been done

duringtheweekendbuthehadtoflybacktoFayweatherforafamilygatheringinremembranceof

hismother'sbirthday.Accordingtohim,insteadofthinkingaboutthedayshediedeveryyear,they

madeahabitofcelebratingthedaytheworldwasblessedwithherpresence.Kellanexplainedhow

it'stheonetimeofyearnootherobligationsmatter.Aftereatingherfavoritepastadinnerwiththeir

father,himandhisbrotherloadupwithashittonofalcoholanddisappeartotheprivatecabinin

thewoods.It'sjustthetwoofthemandtheyspendthetimegettingdrunkwhilereminiscingabout

her,growingup,andheruntimelydeath.Hewouldn'ttellmemuchmoreaboutwhatgoeson,butit

wasn'thardtogatheritwasintendedtobeasecret.Abrotherlybondnevertobebroken.

“Nicetry,”Ibrushoffhisattempttobail.“Butwe'redoingthis.”

Herollshiseyesatthesametimeweapproachthecounter.

Athin,beardedmangreetsus.“Hello.WelcometoBalloonBust.Doyouhavereservations?”

“You don't think it's odd you have to have reservations to throw paint filled balloons at

someone?”Kellanquipsunderhisbreath.

Igivethemanbehindthedeskmynamebeforequietlysnappingback,“Youdon'tthinkit'soddto

wearthepriceofanewcartothemovies?”

Myreferencetohiswardrobegetsahumph.“Ienjoyexpensiveclothing.”

Lookingupsweetlyasthemanswipesmycard,Icoo,“AndIenjoyruiningit.”

“Hereyouare,”themanstatesloudlytograbourattention.Islipthecardinthebackpocketofmy

jeans.“You'regoingtogototheleftwhereyou'llfindWendy,you'reguideandrefereewaitingforyou.”

Afterwepolitelythankhim,Kellanquestions,“Referee?Isthisacompetition?”

“Againsteachother,”Ihum.“Oneyou'regoingtolose.”

“Lose?Love,yougetwindedduringapopcorncatchingsession.There'snowayyou'regoingto

beatmeregardlessofthesport.”

Mybodyhaltshalfwaytothebubblyblondewaitingatthedoubledoors.“Caretobetonthat?”

Hecocksaneyebrowofintrigue.“Awager?Thatmightmakethismorefun....”

“Winnerpicksdinner.”

“That'sit?”

“Andloserhastoservethewinnerdessert...naked.”

Kellangrinswide.“YouknowIcan'tresistyounaked.”

“Don'tworry...”Igivehischestacondescendingpat.“Youwon'thaveto.”

Okaysohemaybealittle...er...fine,alotmoreathleticthanme,thankstothe90minuteshe

puts into the gym almost every day, but he has no idea what he's getting himself into and more

importantlyIhaveanadvantage.Idon'tmindbeingcoveredinpaint.Hewill.He'll go out of his

way to stay protected, trapping him like an animal. I've got a plan. Believe in me! Go Team

America!

“You'rerallyingAmericanwarcriesinyourhead,aren'tyou?”

Ithoughttheseconversationswereprivate.

Thetwoofusfinishourpathtoourguide.Immediately,shebounceswithjoyinplace.“Hello!

MynameisWendy!I'llbeyourguideandreftoday.HaveyoueverbeentoBalloonBustbefore?”

“Ihave,”Iannounceproudly.“Buttheoneinfancysneakershasn't.”

“They'renotfancy,”Kellanattemptstoexplaintoher,“they'resimplynew.”

Ahempysmilecreepsontomyface.“Andwhite.”

“So?”

“So they're probably going to get paint stained, sir,” Wendy kindly explains. “While the white

jumpsuitswillcoveryourclothingandthegogglesyourface,yourshoesandhair,willbeexposed.”

ThefrownthatappearsonKellan'sfaceispriceless.WhenheglancesdowntowhereI'mgiggling

andhesneers,“Gogglesoveryourgoggles?Luckyyou.”

Iadjustmyglassesathimandsmirk.“That'sright.Bepissymyeyeweargetscoveragewhilethe

hundred-dollarproductinyourhairisabouttogotowaste.”

“Should'veaskedtoborrowyourhairnet.”

Thecommentisdeliveredwithachallengingstare.

Oh...GameonPrinceJerkOff.

Wendytriestodialbackherlookofhorror.

Guessnoteveryoneisasaccustomedtoourbanterasweare.

“Ifyou'llfollowmetothelockers,I'llexplaintherulesandcoverthebasicsbeforeyousignyour

consent forms.” The two of us follow her through the set of double doors where there appears to be a

waitingarea.Totheleftareseveralplacestositincludingacouch,buttotherightthewalliscoveredin

monitorsthatappeartobebrokenintogroups.“Thisiswhereyouwaitifyouhaveselectedaparticular

coursethatiscurrentlybeingoccupied.Parentsarealsowelcomedtowaithereiftheirchildisherefora

birthdaypartyorafriendandtheydonotwishtoparticipate.”Herhandgesturestothescreens.“These

arebrokenupbythecoursestheycover,whicharelabeledaboveandbelow.”

Kellanstealsaglanceatthenames,butIdon'tbother.It'snotnewinformationtome.

Shemovesalittlefurtherintotheroomandextendsherhandtowardsthemapspinnedontheother

side of the screens. “Here are your course options. There are six. They're broken into Beginner,

Intermediate,andExpert.Asyoucanseeineachdivisionthereisaneasyandadifficult.”

“WewantTheKingdom,”IstateconfidentlybeforegivingKellanaglance.“Unlessthathitstoo

closetohomeforyou.”

Heresiststheurgetomouthoff.“Whateverwillmakemyprettyprettyprincesshappy.”

IinstantlygagandturnbacktoWendy.“Youcancontinue.”

Shenods,spinsonherheels,andbeginswalkingagain.Thistimewegothroughasetofdouble

doorsontheright.Ontheothersideweseepeoplebeinghandedtheirwhitesuitswhileothersarebeing

handedtheirbags.

“Youwillbegivenawhitesuitaswellasgogglestoprotectyourclothingandeyes.Occasionally

painthasdrippedthroughthesuitsandstainedclothing.Youwillbesigningonyourwaiverthatyouwill

notholdBalloonBustresponsibleifthathappens.Yourwaiverwillalsohaveyouacknowledgetherisk

ofpossibledamagetoyoureyesoranyotherexposedbodyparts.Thepaintintheballoonisnon-toxic,

however,ifforsomereasonyouswallowanamount,pleaseendthegameandreportdirectlytomesothat

we can handle the situation accordingly. Once you two are dressed, you will each be given a bag of

balloonsfilledwithwatereddownpaint.Youwilleachhaveseparatecolors,whichwillhelpidentifythe

winningteam.Theobjectofthegameistocovertheotherpersoncompletelyinpaint.Whoeverhasthe

leastamountofpaintontheirsuitwins.”

“Andyoudeterminewhothatis?”Kellanquicklyquestions.

Shenods.“Anunbiasedthirdopinion.”

“Meaningdon'tflashheryourwinningsmiletotrytoscoreextrapoints.”

Tomysurprise,hegivesmeasweetsmirk,anddeclares,“Mywinningsmileisonlyflashedfor

you,love.Everyoneelseisjustfortunatetocatchaglimpse.”

Don'tswoon!He'stheenemyrightnow...ThoughwiththatcommentI'malmosttemptedto

forfeit.

Wendygushesafaintawebeforecontinuing,“Theentirecourseisropedoffinthesamecolorsas

yourballoons.Donotgopastthesepoints.Youarewelcomedtouseanypartofthecoursetohideorgain

your victory, but you should be aware you are only given twenty minutes to destroy one another and a

limited amount of ammunition. You are given two minutes to hide, twenty minutes to battle, and two

minutesfromthesoundofmywhistletoreportbacktome.Ifforanyreasoninthemiddleofthegameyou

haveanemergency,therewillbewhiteflagyoucanwave.IntheboothwhereIwillbewaiting,thereare

multiple screens which I monitor your movements from as well as another team member in case I miss

somethingdetrimental,suchasaninjuredplayer.Anyquestions?”

Thetwoofusshakeourheadsinunison.

Sheinstructsforustowaitamomentandcrossestothecounterclosesttothedoorsthatwilllead

tothecourses.Wewatchhergrabtwoclipboardsandtwopens.Promptlyshereturnsandoffersusthe

forms.“Thisre-explainseverythingIjustdidandcoversnegligenceaswellaspoorplayerconduct.”

Havingreadtheformsbefore,Iquicklyscribblemyname.

Kellansighs,“Youdoknowit'sneveragoodideatosignsomethingwithoutreadingitfirst.”

“Thisisn'tmyfirsttimeherenewb.”

Heletshiseyesscanthedocument.“Justhowmanytimeshaveyouplayed?”

“Why?”Ipush.“WorriedhowmuchofanadvantageImighthave?”

Hehums,signshisname,andstateswithsmirk.“No.Wonderinghowhumiliatedyou'regoingto

feelwhenyougetdestroyedbyanovice.”

Hislackofhumblenessisn'tsurprisingyetstillspursmetosnap.“GameonDukeDilhole.”

“Dilhole?Arewebackinthe90s?”

“I'llgrabyourequipment,”Wendyinterrupts.

The process for getting dressed and equipped isn't long. Thankfully for us our choice of course

isn'tcurrentlyoccupiedallowingimmediateaccess.Beforewefollowourguide,Kellantakesamoment

to snap a photo of his shoes, insisting it's to post to his followers, though I'm convinced it's to

commemoratetheshortlifespanofhissneakers.Afterward,Wendyescortsthetwoofusouttothefield

butdoesn'tgothroughthegate.

“Threesharpwhistlesandyoucanbegin.Threesharpwhistlesanditends.Gotit?”

WenodandWendyslipsintothesmallmonitoringbooth.

She pushes a button to open the gate, which is when I give Kellan's smug face one last look.

“Hopeyou'rereadybecauseI'mgonnatellthewholeworldPrinceKellangotbeatbyagirl.”

Hewinks.“Notabloodychance.”

Oh...I'mgonnaenjoywatchingpaintdripdownhisfacesomuch.

The two of us split ways and I head left towards one of the far perimeter walls. While at first

glancetheentirecourselookslikeaKindergartnersneezedontheiroverprizedcastlethemedplayground,

thepaintareaisfilledwithtrapsandtrickstouseasyouradvantage.

Ifyouknowthey'rethere.

On my way, I stop, quickly plant the trap I had in mind when I selected the course, and crouch

behindthewall,allowingmyselftokeepaneyeonthedirectionhe'smostlikelygoingtobecomingfrom.

Threesharpwhistlesareblaredandmybreathstops.Aspredicted,Kellanbeginscreepingaround

thecornerofthewoodenarea,eyesscanningtheemptyareaatarapidrate.Thepredatoryconcentration

onhisfaceisequalpartsentertainingandexciting.Hisfootstepscontinueslowly,facestillmydirection

untilhebrieflyturnstograbaquickglanceoftheupperleveloftheplayground.Atthatmoment,Ipopup

andhurlmyballoonacrosstheway,aimingnotforhimbutthegroundathisfeet.

Theballoonshatterssplashingpaintonhisshoesandlowerpantlegs.“Sonofabitch!”

Whilehe'shunchedoverinspectinghisruinedfootwear,Ithrowanother,thankfulwhenitlandson

his neck and back. My triumphant giggle is cut short when he quickly retaliates throwing one where he

believesIstillam.Hisinitialmissonlyencourageshimhardertorushaftermetossingnumerousballoons

atanypartofmybodyhethinkshecanhit.Barelyabletododge,Isprintbackthedirectionhecameand

uptheverystairshethoughtIwasoriginallyhidingatthetopof.

HearingKellan'sstepsslowlyapproachwhereI'vecrawledmakesmesmirkasIpreparetoplay

outmyfirstidea.

“Youmadeabigmistakegoingaftermyshoes,”hescolds,hisbodynowapproachingtothecrawl

spaceI'min.

Kellan's body rounds the corner to find me waiting in a crab walk position. Immediately, he

preparestothrowwhenIkickmyfootout,theballoonIhadbeenbalancingsmashingagainsthischest

andsplashinghisgoggles.

“Damnit!”

Iquicklyscurryaway,crawlthroughatunnel,andheadforthebacksetofstairs.Tonosurprise

Kellanchasesafterme,oneofhisballoonscrashingagainstthepolebesideme,dropsofhisyellowpaint

landingonmyshoulder.Hesprintsafterme,runninglapsaroundtheplayground,attemptingtocutmeoff

whenhecan,andsuccessfullynailingmethreetimeswithcheapshotsthoughheendsupsufferingdamage

intheprocess.Althoughit'sobviouswearebothplayingtowin,ourlaughterisoutofcontroltothepoint

of distracting at times. We continue behaving like over grown children, climbing on the walls, making

goofy faces, and missing more often than hitting. Once I'm certain he's down to his last balloon, I rush

towardstheareawhereIbeganthewarandpretendtobetrapped.

Kellansmirksandtoyswithhislastballoon.“ItoldyouIwouldbeatyou...”

IslowlymovebackwardsuntilIbumpagainstthewall,handspurposelybehindmyback.“That's

yourlastballoon....”

“Only one I need,” he reassures, moving closer confidently. “I smash this one, right...here...”

Kellan'sfreehandroamsdownthefrontofmysuit.“Iwin.You'llbecompletelydrippingwithmypaint.”

Myfingerssubtlywraparoundmyhidingweapons.“Thenyoubetternotmiss.”

Hisfaceleansdowntomine.“Don'tworry.Iwon't.”

Itiltmyhead.“Haven'tyoulearnedyetthatarroganceisn'tsexy?”

Kellanchuckles,“EverythingIdoissexy,love.Youreadytogetwet?”

Withanadditionalprematurevictorioussmirk,hepullsbacktothrowhisfinalballoon.Swiftly,I

duck, lunge forward, each of my hands loaded with a balloon, and smash them at his sides. The

unexpectedactioncauseshimtolosethegripofhisweapon,whichsplashesourshoes.

“Sorry,”Isneer.“Lookslikeyou'rethewetone...”

Hisjawfalls,whichonlymakesmeburstintogiggles.Allofasuddenhereachesoutandtrapsme

in his arms before I can get away. I squeak and plead for my freedom while he ignores the request,

ticklingmeintheprocess.

Luckilyforme,threesharpwhistleblowsbecomemykeytofreedom.

Itossmyhandsintheair.“Yes!Iwin!”

Kellanglancesdownatthewhitesuitthat'ssignificantlycoveredinmorepaintthankstomyfinal

moveandsighsheavily.

“Yougotbeatbyagirl,”Iteaseandskipbacktowardsthegatewhereourrefiswaiting.

“Youcheated!”

“Strategized!”

ThetwoofusarriveinfrontofWendywhoisattemptingtostiflehersnicker.

“He'sbeingasoreloser.”

“Iamnot.”

“Wouldyoutwolikeaphotograph?”Shepolitelyasks.

“Yes!”Iexclaim.“Let'scommemoratethedaythelacrosseplayerlosttotheartlover.”

Hegroansyetwrapshisarmstightlyaroundme.

Wendystepsbackintheboothtotakethephoto.

Throughmysmile,Istate,“Wearesoframingthisphoto.”

Kellanletsoutalaugh,whichreplaceshisstagedsmilewithagenuineone.AfterWendygivesus

athumbs-uptoletusknowwe'refinished,hewhispersinmyear,“Ican'twaitforustocleanuptogether

intheshower...”

That'sdefinitelyabetterprizethanjustpickingdinner.LookslikeI'mgonnawintwicethis

afternoon...ormaybeeventhreetimesifyouknowwhatImean.

Kellan

I lean against the door frame of our hotel bedroom as I adjust my watch. “Love....You almost

ready?”

“Givemeonemoreminute.”

She said that twenty-five minutes ago. I'm not exactly in any hurry to get to this thing,

believeme,butIwouldhateforourfirstpubliclyannouncedeventtoincludethewordlatein the

headline.

Thedoortothebathroomopensandmyjawinstantlybecomesagapeatthesight.

Brieslowlysauntersintotheroomeffortlesslyslavingmyattentionwitheveryswayofherhips.

Thethin,floorlengthwhitegown,hasalowvneckline,whichhashervoluptuouschestdisplayedinthe

most enticing fashion. My eyes reluctantly trace the remainder of the dress that only accents her most

flatteringcurves.Asmytongueandcockswellinunison,shecasuallyturns,exposingthehiphighsliton

herrightsideandherbeautifulbackbeingcoveredonlybyherstraightenedhair.

Bloodyhell,howareweeversupposedtoleavenow?AndwhywouldIeverletanyoneelse

seeherlikethis?HaveIcompletelylostmymind?

“Well?”Briepullsherhairtothesideofherfacewherethecrystalhairpinislocated.“DoIlook

okay?”

Woulditbesowrongtotellherthisisn'ttheonlytimeIhopetoseeherinawhitedress?

“Youlook...”Thesentenceseemstodriftawaywhilemyeyesdrinkintheimpeccablesightonce

more.

Shegivesmeanervousyetplayfulsmirk.

“Imean,”Iclearmythroattotryagain,“youlook...Wellyoulook...”Helplessly,Istealanother

long,hardstare,myalmostrenderedspeechlessnessnowactuallycomplete.Mymouthcontinuestomove

despitethefactasingleworddoesnotescape.

Whatdoyoudowhenthereareliterallynowordsforhowsexyyourgirlfriendlooks?Imean

thehair,themakeup,evenherglassesarepracticallysparkling.

Brierunsafingerdownmychestcausingmetogroan.Withateasingsmile,shedeclares,“I'lltake

yourcavemanspeakasIlookamazing.”

My hand slides onto her hip. The feeling of her bare skin on my fingertips sways all thoughts

towardsthesexualendofthespectrum.Tonosurprisemydickstiffensdesperatelyinmyblacksuitpants.

“Quiteanunderstatement.”

She gives me another mischievous smile. “Did I mention I'm not wearing anything underneath

this?”

Mad.Thiswomanlivestodrivememad.

Istifleagrowlandpullhercloser.“Isthispaybackforhavingyouspendthedayatthespa?You

knowmostwomenwouldappreciateanafternoonofbeingpamperedandtreatedlikeaqueen.”

“Duchess,”shecorrects.“You'renotaking.You'reaDuke.”

“Andaprince.”

“Who,unlessyourbrotherdiesinafreakbeerchuggingaccident,isnotgoingtobeking.”

“AndthegreatcountryofDoctennshouldmournthatfactbecauseIamentirelymorefunthanmy

brother.”

“Idon'tdoubtthat.”Brielightlylaughs.“Buttoansweryourquestion,yesIampunishingyoufor

havingmespendthedaywithstrangersrubbingandpullingonme.Doyouhaveanyideahowweirditis

tohavethreedifferentpeopleworkingonyouatthesametimelikeyou'rea-”

“Masterpiece?” My artsy interjection causes her to fight a smile. “Because you are and you

deservedtheroyaltreatmentforenduringanightoftorturewithme.”Ilinkmyfreehandwithhers.“Are

yousureyouwanttodothis?Youdon'thaveto.Youcanspendtheeveninginthishotelroominthatdress,

waiting for my return. Sort of like a slutty angel I can cover in sin after my night of charitable good

fortune.”

Sheshootsmeasarcasticlook.

What!Itwasworthashot!

Aswearriveatthedoor,Istopusfromexiting.“Inallseriousness,Idounderstandifyou'renot

readyforthis.Ifyouwanttowait.Ifyou-”

“Kellan,areyousureit'smeyou'reworriedaboutandnotyourself?”

Theaccusationliftsmyeyebrowsinsurprise.

“Maybe you're not ready to announce to the world this way that you have a girlfriend. I mean

photoswithcoffeemugsorcandlelightorticketstoaplayisquitedifferentthanshowingupwithheron

yourarm.Maybeyou'reashamedtobeseenwith-”

My tongue swiftly slips into her mouth smothering the end to that sentence. Brie squeaks in

surprise and instinctively reaches out to grasp my jacket for balance. Our mouths melt together in a

heavenlycombinationofhotbreathsandhardpushes.Beforethesituationcanspiraloutofmycontrolor

mypointforinterruptingcanbecompletelyforgotten,Ipullbackandsay,“NeverdoubtthatIviewmyself

astheluckiestmanalivetohaveyouonmyarm.”WhenIreceiveasoftsmile,Istate,“I'mreadyifyou

are.”

Brieushersherhandatthedoor.“Afteryou...”

Nowyou'reprobablyhavingamomenthere,wonderinghowthehellhavewebeentogether

formonthsandtheworldnotknow?It'soneofthebenefitsofnooneotherthanmyfamilyknowing

exactly where I am. While I've still got thousands of people stalking my social media accounts, I

don'tpostanythingthatwouldgivethemarealhinttomywhereaboutsorwhoI'vebeenspending

timewith.Online,Brieisnothingmorethan'her'inmyposts,notonlytoprotectheranonymitybut

topreservethebitofmyownI'vemanagedtocultivateforonceinmylife.Don'tgetmewrong.I

mayonlypostsphotosofobjectsorselfies,butwetaketonsofpersonalcouplephotos.Briedoesn't

postthemonlineoutofherownfreechoiceandIhaveenjoyedsharingthemonlywithmybrother

and Soph. I knew we wouldn't be able to hide forever, but it doesn't mean I have to be thrilled to

tossthewomanIloveintothelimelightandwatchitattempttoburnher.

Thetwoofuscasuallystrollintotheswarmofhungryphotographerssurroundingthebuilding’s

entrance. We take a moment to pause for an obnoxious multitude of flashes before we continue into the

fundraiser.

Assoonaswe'reontheothersideofthedoor,pastthehostwaitingtotakeourinvitations,Brie

sighs,“IthinkI'mblind.”

“Ofcourseyouare,love.That'swhyyouwearglasses.”

Herjawisflooredsecondsbeforeawaiteroffers,“Champagne?”

Igrabuseachafluteandgivehimapolitenodofthanks.

When I offer her one, she snips, “That and to let the world immediately know I'm smarter than

you.”

Asmallchortleescapes.Afterwardsweclinkourglassestogetherwithmatchinggrins.

IknowIshouldn'tbeworriedwithanattitudelikehersinaroomfullofpeoplewhoseegos

could afford to be fall a peg or two, but that's precisely what makes me nervous. They're used to

beingflatteredandfavoredtotheirfacesandcriticizedbehindtheirbacks.Alittletoomuchhonesty

mightendindisaster.

Swisslingerstowardsthebackwhereseveralothersecuritydetailshappentobewaitingwhile

thetwoofusheadintotheheartoftheevent.Almostinstantly,I'mapproachedbyfamiliarfacesofboth

menandwomenandbegincasualintroductionstoBrie.Eachconversationcloselyresemblesoneanother

as do their expressions upon meeting her. I expect a degree of shock, however the abundant amount on

severalfaceshasmeconcernedit'snotoverthesimplefactI'mshowcasingagirlfriend.

PerhapsI'mbeingparanoid?

Thetwoofusveertowardstherightwhenourpathisblockedbyadaintyblondewithabobbed

haircut.Shecoos,“Kellan...”

“Gwen,”Igreetback,tighteningmygriponBrie'ship.“Alwaysapleasure.”

“Youaswell,”sherepliesbeforegivingBrieaskepticalglance.“Iseeyou'vebroughtadate.”

Proudly,Istate,“Yes.Mygirlfriend.BrieSandersmeetGwenDickens.She'sanawardwinning

actressinDoctenn.”

“Several,”hersnipisdirectedatthewomaninmyarms.

Nowisnotagoodtimetowanderifthatsnipisbecausethingsdidn'tendwellbetweenus.

TheyshakeatthesametimeGwensays,“Idon'trecognizeyou.AreyouanAmericanactress?”

“No,”Briepolitelyanswers.“I'manartstudent.”

ThesneeronGwen'sfaceisunmistakable.“Isthatajoke?”

Sheslowlyshakesherhead.

“You'reastudent?Notevenagraduate?”

“Soon,”Briekindlyretorts.

Gwenpinshergreeneyesbackonme.“She'snotyournormaltypeinsomanyways,Kellan.”Her

eyescutBrieanadditionalglancebeforeadding,“Youtwodon'tseemasifyou...match.”BeforeIhavea

chance to retort, she continues, “On a different note, how is the program? Hopefully my donations are

beingspentwiselyandnotonsomethingfrivolouslikeacolorfulartstudent'stuition.”

Of course her remarks are cunty because she was one of those women who assumed that

becauseweslepttogetherandshewasfamous,I'dnaturallycall,buttellme,andbehonest,doyou

hearanadditionalhatredBrie'sdirectionfor...wellfornotbeingfairskinned?

Brieuncomfortablyadjustsherselfinmyarms.

Safetoassumeshe'snoticingaswell.

“Yourdonationsaregoingtothesameplacetheyalwaysdo,Gwen.”

“Expanding?”

Reluctantly,Ireply,“Notatthistime.”

“ButIthought-”

“Itistheintention,howeveratthistimenotourdirectfocus.”

Someone calls her name from over her shoulder. After glancing to see who it is, she turns back

around, smiles, and says, “All right then. I hope it becomes your focus once more, perhaps when your

judgmentisclear.Ifyoutwowillexcuseme,there'ssomeoneIneedtospeakwith.”

Gwensharplyturnsonherheelstoheadthedirectionshewassummoned.

The moment she's out of earshot, Brie moves in front of me and questions, “Did you wedge the

stickupherassorwasittherebeforeyoutriedtoputyourdickinit?”

Hercommentcracksmyjawinsurprise.

“Andwhatdoyoumeanyou'renotexpanding?Whathappened?Justlastweekyouweregoingon

andonaboutopeningsheltersinnewlocations.”

Islipmyhandsinmypocket.“ThatiswhatIwant,butunfortunatelythefundsarenotpermittingit

atthistime.Wearebringinginenoughrevenuetokeepthecurrentsheltersopeninthetenlargestcitiesin

Doctenn and the five we have here in the states, operational. As of right now we have to focus on the

changeswecanmaketothosesheltersthatareopeninordertomakethemmorebeneficialtothechildren

andyouthwhorelyonthem.Rightnow,ourmainfocushastostayonthesheltersbeingawarmplaceto

stay,havingfoodtoeat,andfacilitiestouse.SomeofthesheltersinDoctennhavevolunteerdoctorsand

nurses, but that's something I want all of the shelters to eventually have, along with some sort of

education. Because pocketbooks aren't currently popping open without constant persuasive dinners or

pushycalledinfavors,Ihavetoensureeverydollarwereceivesufficientlymakesadifferenceforthose

relyingonourprogram.”

Tomysurprise,Briestepsforwardandplacesakindhandonmychest.“HaveImentionedhow

amazingyouare?”

“Notinthepasthour.Iwasbeginningtowonderifyouhadforgotten.”Whenasmilestarts,Ilean

downandcaptureherlipswithmineforabriefmoment.“Whatdoyousaywegrabadrinkfromthebar

andcheckoutthesilentauction?”

“Isay-”

“Kellan!”Awoman'svoicesqueaksbehindme.

Bloodyhell...Wherearethemen?

Iturntobegreetedwithalivelygrinbyalankybrunette.“Rumorwasyouwouldbeshowingyour

facethisevening.”

“AndhereIam.”IwinkandslipBriebackintomygrip.“BrieSandersmeetNancyTherlan.She's

awriterwiththeTenntinal.”Myattentionlowerstomygirlfriend.“ThinkyourNewYorkTimes,butfor

mycountry.”

“Oh,”Briestarts,thoughsheisimmediatelyinterrupted.

Nancyshovesherhandoutandsays,“Youmustbehisdate.”

“Girlfriend,”shecorrectsforthefirsttimeallevening.

AtthatmomentNancy'sexpressiongrowscuriously.“Isthatso?”

“Yes,”Iretort.

“Butshe's...wellshe's....”Nancy'seyesgiveBriealonglookthenmeapleadingone.

Iarchmyeyebrowsinanticipationforaresponse.

“Different,”Nancyquietlyfinishes.Sheclearsherthroatandasks,“DoyoumindifIaskyoua

fewquestions,Kellan.Forthearticle?”

There'sahintofpanicinBrie'svoice.“Whatarticle?”

“The one regarding this evening's functions. It's just a puff piece she does to remind the good

peopleinourcountrythatwearegivingtothosearoundtheworld.”MyheadtiltssarcasticallyatNancy.

“Though it's usually packed with more gossip about those who attended rather than the difference they

might'vemadefortheevening.”

Shestiflesthedesiretosneer.“Questions,Kellan?”

Iletoutadeepsigh.“Three.AndthenI'mtakingmylovelygirlfriendtoshopthesilentauctionfor

somethingworthyofaDuchessinthemaking.”

Thestatementgetsanintriguedlookfrombothwomen.

Was that too forward? What? I'm not planning on asking her today. Perhaps...someday...

PerhapswhenI'malittlemorecertainheranswerwouldbeyes.Saveyourbreath.There'snoneed

to give me the how long we've known each other speech. If you'd like me to be completely honest

with you, there's not a person in my life who knows me better other than my brother. Not to

mention,Iloathetheideaofanothermanever,andIdomeanever,worshipingherthewayIdo.No

othercavemanshallbetakingherbacktohisplacetoenjoythesavagesoundsshecausesamanto

make.

Imotionahandather.“Thequestions.”

Nancyattemptstoregainherfocus.“Um...Howlonghaveyoutwobeendating?”

“Afewmonths.”

Alittlemorethanthree.Iknow.Makesthemarriagecommentseemevenmoremad,doesn't

it?

“Isthisthefirsteventyoutwohaveattendedtogether?”

“Formal yes,” I answer and give Brie a glance. “She did attend the annual run I do here in the

states.”

Therecallingofourfirstnighttogetherbringsacolortohercheeks.

“You mentioned you plan on bidding on something for her at the auction tables. Do you have

somethinginmind?Jewelryperhaps?Maybesomethinggold,whichismostlikelyhertastes.”

See.Likethatthere.WasthatadigatAfricanAmerican'spreferringgoldjewelryoramIyet

againreadingintoherwordchoice?

Withasmugsmirk,Ianswer,“Nottonight.Nothere.Iwasthinkingperhapstheyacht.It'dbeenfun

tosaildownthecoastofDoctennwithherbeforehearingmybrothercomplainitcan'tbeparkedatthe

palace.”NancygigglesandIcurtlynod.“Ifyou'llexcuseus...”

Thetwoofusbegintotherightoncemore,thistimewithmeactivelyavoidinganyfamiliarfaces.

Inalowvoice,Brieasks,“Areyoureallygonnabidonaboat?”

“Yacht.”

Sheletsoutanannoyedsigh.“Areyoureallygonnabidonarichpeopleboatsowecantravelthe

coast?”

Iceaseourmovementsandfaceher.“Why?Doesthatinterestyou?”

A dreamy look appears in her eyes. “I don't know...I've...I've never done anything like that. It

soundscrazy...”

“Howaboutthissummerafteryougraduate?Thetwoofuscouldspenditloungingbythewater,

drinking pints, and having sex in the sun. I know you're still uncertain with what you want to do once

you'vegottenyourdegree.Perhapssometimetorelaxiswhatyouneedtohaveaclearvision?”

Theexcitementincreasesatthesametimeshewhispers,“Maybe...”

Ilinkourfingerstogetherandstepcloser.“Maybeisenoughformetobidonthatyacht.”

Welocklipsforonlyamomentbeforeheadingtothetableswiththeitemsforbid.

The two of us scan the tables one by one, most of the objects offered far from appealing to us.

While Brie takes her time closely examining every item along with the current bid, my eyes helplessly

wanderaroundtheevent.Varioussetsofeyestrytoavertthemselvesawaywhencaughtstaring,yetothers

seemtonarrowindisapproval.Idomybesttowriteofftheglaresasjealousyfromwomenwhowishto

be in her place, however it doesn't stop me from observing their quick snickers proceeded with swift

fingersacrossthekeysoftheirphones.

Briesharplygaspsandpanicinstantlyensues.“Areyoualright?!”

“There's a private showing at the McAllizter Art Studio!” She joyfully exclaims. “Do you have

anyideahowamazingitwouldbetogothere,nevermindaprivateviewing!TheMcAllizterArtStudio

showcasessomeofthemostprofoundpaintersofthisdecade.”

Ifoldmyarmsfirmlyacrossmychest.“Letmegetthisright.Iofferyouasummeronayachtand

youwouldratherspendanafternoonstaringatpaintings?”

Brieeagerlynods.

“You'reserious?You'dratherspendasingleafternoonwithmeinmiserymakingsnideremarks

aboutartworkthantwoorthreemonthsofaimlesssexandsailing?”

Shesweetlydragsahanddownmychest.“Youhadmeatmakingyoumiserable...”

Hersnickercausesmetorollmyeyesandreluctantlyaddmybidtothesheetofpaper.Undermy

breath,Istate,“Thethingswedoforlove.”

AfterIsign,Ilookuptoseeasurprisedexpressioncoveringherface.

Ijustrealizedwhythinkingaboutmarriageisevenmadderthanitwasbefore.Shouldn'tbe

consideringsuchathingwhenIhaven'tevenbotheredmentioningthatIloveheroutloud.ButI'm

siding with Soph on this matter. Just because it hasn't been said, doesn't make it any less true or

real.

Briebeginstosaysomethingwhenanoldermalehuffsfrombesideme.

Iturnhisdirectionandhesays,“Excuseme.DoyoumindifIplaceabid?”

“Of course not.” Handing him the pen, I casually joke, “Bidding is only fun when someone is

willingtocompetewithyou.”

The dark haired man smirks. “True. Though, if we're being honest, I prefer to have at least one

thingIcanfallbackonasknowingit'sinthebag,ifyouknowwhatImean.”

Outofnaturalhabit,IslinkanarmaroundBrie'swaist,andsigh,“Normally,yes,especiallysince

all of this is for a good cause, but my girlfriend has her heart set on this one, so you might want to

consideranotherfallback.”

Brieoffersmeasweetsmile.

Thestrangersignshisnameandbidsregardless.“Yourgirlfriend'stasteissurprising.”Whenhe

looksuphegivesherabrieflookbeforestatingtome,“Surprisedsomeonelikehercouldeveractually

takeinterestinsomethingnotendorsedbyanoverpaidcelebrity.”

Idefensivelysnap,“Ibegyourpardon?”

Heholdsupahandasiftokeepthepeace.“Ijustmeant,it'sunusualforpeoplelikehertohavea

realinterestintheactualartsratherthanwhatahip-hopmogulmight'vementioned.”

Doyoubelievemenow?

Equalpartsdisgustedandinfuriated,Ibite,“AndIthinkit'sunusualforpeoplelikeyoutobelet

outofyourcagesamongthoseofuswhoareactuallycivilized.”

Themandoesn'tseemtobebotheredbytheretort.Hemerelygivesmeasympatheticsmirkand

strollsawayasifnothinghappened.

Unbelievable...

Withhorrorstillplasteredonmyface,IlookatBriewhoappearsun-phasedbytheentirething.In

asweetvoice,sheurges,“Couldyoupleaseoutbidhimnow?Ireallyreallywannaseetheonlypainting

theFrenchartistLuTuwaswillingtodisplayinourcountry.”

Unsure if her non-existent response to the blatant hatred is a well-executed act or her honest

reaction,Isimplysnatchthepen,scribblemynamealongsideanoutrageousprice,andquestion,“Shall

wegetadrink?”

Brie hums in contemplation. “Can we get food instead? Maybe something that's not bite sized,

thoughIdoapproveofhowmanyofthefingerfoodsarewrappedinbacon.”

Herplayfulcommentrelaxesthetightnesstangledthroughoutmychest.“Wecangrabanactualbite

onthelevelabove.”

Onceshethreadsherarmaroundmine,Ileadustowardsthestairs,buryingtheindignationtothe

bestofmyability.

Ontheupperlevel,we'reseatedatabalconytablewherewe'regivenaremarkableviewofthe

room. We order another round of drinks, several seafood appetizers to share, and exchange traveling

stories. While mine to most people would be considered more exhilarating, I'm helplessly caught up in

everyoneofherordinarytalesofamusementparkdisasters.

How many times can one child get lost in a theme park before their parents decide maybe

that'snotthebestplaceforfamilyadventures?

“Soareyoutellingmenottoletyouwanderaroundthecitybyyourselfornottotakeyoutoan

amusementpark?”

Briegigglesandgivesmeasmallshrug.“Mmm...probablyboth.”

Thetwoofuseruptintolaughteronlytobealmostimmediatelyinterrupted.

“Kellan,”themansayswarmly.“Surprisedyou'rehere.”

“Someone has to spend my family's money,” I chuckle and extend my hand for us to shake.

Afterwards I introduce, “Brie, meet Ronald Randolph. He's an investment genius who married a bikini

model.”

“OnlyreasonIattendthesethings,”RonaldrespondswhileshakingBrie'shand.“Shegetstogive

totheneedyandIgettolooklikeIgiveadamnaboutmorethanmysportscarcollection.”

Judgehimallyouwant.He'soneofthemosthonestandbluntindividualsI'veevermet.It's

actuallythereasonpeoplearedrawntohim.

Briepolitelylaughsbeforehequestions,“Andwhataboutyoubeautiful?Whatareyoudoingina

stiffplacelikethis?”

“KeepingKellanoutoftrouble.”

“There'sanendlessjob,”Ronaldchuckles.“Whatareyoutwobiddingon?”

Ileanbackinmyseat.“Soyoucansnakeitfrommeorremindmewhataterribleinvestmentit

is?”

“Everything here is a terrible investment,” he scoffs. “That's what they should've named this

fundraiser. Hell, on the invitations it should've said in big bold print 'Where Your Money Will Go To

HelpNoOne'.Thesethingsareanabsolutewasteofmoneyandtime.Theyraisemillionsoffundsyetit

hardlyfeedsanyone,unlikeyourprogramthatdoesn'tpromisefakeexecutiontofluffyourownpockets.”

Briecuriouslyquestions,“DoyoudonatetoKellan'sprogram?”

“SecondbiggestdonortoKellanhimself.”

I can get Ronald bloody Randolph to invest a portion of his cash, but not my own father.

Fuckedupatad,don'tyouagree?

Ronaldshrugs.“Gottahavesomethingtolookgoodonmytaxes.”

Thetwoofussmirkathisremark.

“Doyouworkforhim?”Hecasuallyasksmygirlfriend.“Newsecretary,he'sshowingtheropes?

Brie starts to answer when my irritation gets the better of me. “Why do you assume she's my

secretary?”

Ronald shrugs again and slides his hands in his pockets. “She's not your usual type for anything

else.”

Outragebeginstoslowlyboil.“Meaning?”

“She'snotblonde.Notasocialite.Notacelebritytomyknowledge.Hasnotroublecompletinga

thoughtwithoutherbrainover-heating.”

“Anythingelsemakehernotmyusualtype?”

Hisheadtiltsatmeinquestion.

Atthatmoment,Brienudgesmeunderthetable,andencouragesmetorelaxwithafirmlook.

“Forgiveme.Thatwasrude.”Iclearmythroat.“Imusthavehadtoomuchchampagne.”

Hegivesmeaquestionablelookyetstates,“It'salright...I'mgonnagofindEmma.Thetwoofyou

enjoytherestofyournight.”

BriewavessweetlyandIgivehimapolitenodgoodbye.

Themomentwe'realonesheasks,“Areyouokay,Kellan?”

Ratherthananswerimmediately,Iletmyattentionroamoncemorespottingjudgmentaleyesour

direction.It'satthatmomentIscantheroomforotherpeoplebesidesBriewhoareofadifferentethnicity.

AssoonasIrealizeit'sjusther,awaveofnauseawashesovermetothepointitfeelslikeI'mdrowning.

How is this possible? A room full of people and she's the only one not sporting the same

shadeofpigment?Ithoughtdiversitywasthespiceoflife!Ithoughttheworldhadprogressedpast

thisparticularpoint!

“Kellan...”

Myeyeslandonhers.“I'mreadytoleave.Areyou?”

Shetriesnottopout.“Whatabouttheauction?”

“I'llarrangeforoneofthehoststokeepbiddinginmynameifwegetoutbid.”

Herglowinggrinreturns.“Youreallywannagetlaidforwinning,don'tyou?”

Istruggletoreturnthesmile.“Always.”

After swinging by the auction area to assure our win, I lead the two of us promptly out of the

event,thankfultobeawayfromtheuncomfortablestaresandhatefulthoughtsswirlingaroundus.

Inthelimo,Brieattemptstomakeconversationaboutthoseweencounteredthroughouttheevening

who she was introduced to. I do my best to engage yet my mind involuntarily wanders to the faces of

womenwhoweresnickeringandtexting.

Unlesstheyweren'ttexting...

Ipulloutmyphoneandgivemynameaquickinternetsearch.Theimmediateresultscapturemy

complete attention as well as return the rage to its rawest state. My eyes scan everything from hateful

racialandsalacioustweetsaimedatBriewithoutnamingherdirectlytoblogsbashingtheboldchoiceof

dress and body shaming her. With every passing cold and callous comment created by the user and the

additionalonesfromtheirfollowers,thegriponmydevicetightens.

Thelimocomestoanunexpectedhalt,whichiswhenIliftmyeyestoBrie's.Shesimplyshakes

herhead,sighs,andexitsthevehicle.

Shit...Didsheseethem?Isshemadatmeforsubjectinghertothosethings?

Ourrideuptoourroomisinsurprisingsilence.EachtimeIopenmymouthtosaysomethingto

her,Iclampitshut,terrifiedI'monlygoingtomakethesituationworse.

Themomentwe'reontheothersideofourhotelsuitedoor,shemakesabeelineforthebedroom

forcingmetoplea,“Brie,wait.”

She spins around and snaps. “For what? For you to ignore me some more? For another weird

moodswing?Foryoutodecidewhetherornotweshouldattendanotheroneofthesetogether?”

Myjawbobs,theanswertoeachofthosequestionssurprisinglyhardertoanswerthantheyshould

be.

Ijust...Ineedaminutetobloodybreathe.Tothinkclearly.

“I'mgoingtobed,”shestateswithsadnesssuffocatinghertone.“Alone.”

“Brie-”

“No,”sheinstantlydenies.“Kellan,Ididn'tdoanyofthisshittonightforme.Ididitforyou. I

couldcarelessaboutfancydresses,fancyshoes,andweirdfancyfood.IdidallofthisbecauseIloveyou

andIknowthatwecan'thideinmyworldforever.Ifwe'regoingtobetogetherthenthatmeansI'mgoing

tohavetosuckmyselfintoasuffocatinggownandsmileinsmugfacesthatnotsosecretlyaredisgusted

by me. Being together means we're going to have to face uncomfortable looks at times and backhanded

comments.It'sjustafact.Noteveryoneisacceptingorunderstanding.”

“Buttheyshouldbe.LookatthetimesforChristsake!”

Shegivesmeashortshrug.“Whatshouldbeisn'talwayswhatis.AndthetruthisKellan,Ididn't

give a shit about what any of them said or did or thought. The only thing that mattered to me was

supportingyou.Butobviously...”Hervoicestumbles,“Obviously,thatwasn'ttheonlythingthatmattered

toyou.So,youneedtodecideKellanifbeingwithmeisworththestaresandjudgmentalremarks.Ifyou

canstomachthehatredcertainmembersofsocietystillhave.Ifyoulovemeenoughtotainttheimagethe

worlddesires.”

Without another word, she disappears around the corner. The sound of a door shutting echoes

throughoutthesuitesecondslater.

AfrustratedgroangrowsinthebackofmythroatandIsqueezethebackofmyneckinhopesof

releasingsomesortofpressure.

She'scompletelyright.I'veneverhadtodealwiththistypeofanimositybefore.Prudesfor

me flashing my private parts. Sure. Women disgusted at the rapid rate I run through them. Of

course.BrieherselfwasinitiallydispleasedwiththatuntilsherealizedIwascapableofmore.But

this?HavingstrangershatethewomanI'mwithsimplybecauseshewasborntoadifferentrace?

It'sludicrousandIcan'tcontrolhowfuriousitmakesme.

ImakemywaytothelivingroomwhereIflopdownonthecouch.Looseningmytie,Itrytoshake

awaythecommentsIscrolledpastinthecar.Insteadofdisappearing,theyamplifythedesiretolookat

more,topickatthepainlikeafreshscabthatneedsmuchmoretimetoheal.Iditchmyshoes,stretchout

across the piece of leather furniture, and open my phone. The pages are still pulled up, taunting me

instantly.Forwhatfeelslikehours,Itrompthroughinternetposts,scowlingatgossipsitesandgrousingat

unflatteringphotoscapturedtopurposelydestroyherimagine.

WhenIfinallyreachthepointIcanbarelybreatheanymore,IdialtheonlynumberIcanthinkof.

It only rings once before he answers, “You're calling in the middle of breakfast. This better be

important.”

Thesoundofmybrotherbringsunexpectedcomfort.

Mylackofretortreceivesanimmediateconcern,“Kellan.Everythingalright?”

Iblowaharshbreath.“I'mabloodyidiot.”

“Isthisnewtoyou?”Heteaseswithchuckle.“Isitascaryfeeling?”Whenthere'snojabbackhe

returnstoworrying,“Whyareyouabloodyidiot?Whatdidyoudo?”

Silencesettlesmomentarilybetweenus.Shuttingmyeyes,Iattempttoanswer,“Ididtheonething

Iknewbetterthantodo.”

“Please,tellmeyoukeptyourpantson.”

Thecornerofmyliptugsupward.“ItookBriewithmetothefundraiser.”

“And?”

“Then I spent most the evening being livid over their remarks and unfriendly glances.” Another

deepbreathescapes.“Andtotopitalloff,Ithensearchedtheinternettoreadthehatefuldribbletheyhad

tosayinregardstoher.”

Krisgasps.“Youdidn't.”

“Idid.”

He tries to hide his obvious amusement. “You must really love this girl. Normally, you couldn't

give a rat’s ass about what one of those trolls has to say, yet from the tone in your voice I can assume

you'reseething.Isitbecauseyouassumedshewasjusttooamazingtherestoftheworldwouldhaveto

loveher?Youknow,sortoflikeyouassumetheyfeelaboutyou?”

“No.”Ipinchthebridgeofmynose.“No,I'm...I'mupsetbecauseitwasn'taboutherasaperson.It

wasaboutherskin,somethingshecan'tevencontrol.Itwasn'tbecauseshewasrudeorclasslessoreven

bloody American. It was the mere simple fact she was being judged by the color of her skin. She was

beingjudgedandhatedforsomethingoutofhercontrol.Itwasbecause-”

“Youcouldn'tprotectherfromit,”Krisfinishesforme.

TheacheinmychestdeepensasIdropmyhand.“Yes.”

“You'renotupsetbecausepeoplearearseholes.You'reupsetbecauseyoucan'tshelterherfromit.

Becauseyoulovehersomuchtheideaofanyonehurtingherdrivesyouinsane.Becauseyouwouldrather

endureallthepainbeingthrustherdirectionthaneverhavesomethingorsomeonethreatenhersmile.”

Inoddespitethefacthecan'tseeme.

“It'sthesamethingIwentthroughthefirsttimeSophandIattendedanevent.Itwasthefirsttime

she stopped being just mine. The first time I had to share our love with the world and deal with the

repercussions of being in the public eye. Fact of the matter is, little brother, being watched is a part of

whoyouarewhetheryouwishitwasornot.Andwiththatcomesaveryfrighteninginabilitytoshield

yourheartoncetheworldseesit.”

Myvoiceshakes.“Howdidyoudoit?Hell,howdoyoudoit?”

“I remember that everyone is allowed their own opinion, and I'm equally allowed not to care.”

There'sashortpauseinwhichIswearhesmiles.“Sophismorethanjustthefuturequeenofthiscountry.

She'sthequeenofmyheartandforher,I'dendureanything.”

Asmallgroanseepsout.“Yousoundlikeabloodychickflick.”

Evenifit'strueandhowIalsofeel,doesn'tmakeitlessfeminine.

“Ipourmyheartouttoyouandthat'showyourespond.”

“Youspilledyourpurse.YoumightwanttoputyourtamponsbackinbeforeSophsees.”

“Youaretheworstbrotherinthehistoryofbrothers,youknowthat?”

“Youhavenoconcretewaytoprovethat.”

“Idon'tfeelIneedone.”

“Thanks,Kris.”Forthefirsttimeinhours,Ismile.“Foreverything.”

HisresponsebarelybeginsbeforeSophiasqueals.“Lookathowadorabletheyaretogether!”

Ohno...

There'sarufflingsoundproceededwith,“Yes.Adorable.”

“Oh,shutup,”Igrunt.

“You'resmiling,”SophcoosfromwhatIcanonlyassumeisbesidehim.“Likeactuallysmiling.

He'ssmilingatanevent!Likeactuallysmiling,notthatfakebullshitsmileyoubothsharethat'sequalparts

creepyandtransparent.Likearealsmile...Youlooksohappy!”

Brie'sbeautifulfacefloatsbackintomybrain.Thoughtlessly,Iretort,“Shemakesmehappy...The

happiestI'veeverbeen.”

“Nowwhosoundslikeachickflick?”Kristeasesbeforewhining,“Ou...”

“Enjoyyourbreakfast,”Istate.

“Enjoyyourcouch.”

“Howdidyou-”

“Because if you responded the way you said you did and the way I'm imagining, there's no

possiblewayshe'dletyousleepbesidehertonight.”

MakesyouwonderhowbadhemessedupwithSophtheirfirstouting,doesn'tit?

“Trustme.It'sforthebest.Giveherspacetobreathe.Collectyourapology.Andreturntoherin

themorningwithyourtailtuckedneatlybetweenyourlegs.”Themirthinhistoneactuallyspreadstome.

“It'll be fine. Try to get some sleep. You're an even more insufferable pain in the ass when you haven't

slept.”

“GiveSophmylovewhenshe'sdonecooingoverthosephotos.”

“I miss the days where I could wear dresses with that much cleavage,” she sighs in the

background.

“Nooneshouldbeseeingyourcleavagebutme,”mybrotherdefensivelyannounces.

“Night.”

Oncehereturnstheparting,Iendthecallandtossthephoneontothecoffeetable.

Ihopemybrother'sright.IhopeBrie'sstillwillingtomakethisworkwhenshewakesup.I

hopethatwhileI'vebeeninherebaskinginthementalbrutalityofmyownchoicesthatshehasn't

talkedherselfoutofbeingwithme.Again.Outof...lovingme.Shereallydoesloveme...It'snotjust

an idea I assume from her actions. No. She said it out loud. She confirmed it. She announced it

without second guessing... Fuck. She said it and I couldn't even stop being a self-righteous dick

longenoughtosayitback.WhyisittheholeI'vemanagedtoswandiveintokeepsgettingdeeper

anddeeper?Behonestwithme.Doyouthinkthingsaretrulyfinishedbetweenus?

Brie

There'sasoftknockatthebedroomdoor.Igrabmyglasses,rolloverontomyback,andprepare

togranthimentrancewhenIabruptlystop.

Not sure I'm awake enough for the possible, 'we should end this now' conversation. Then

again,I'mnotsureI'deverbeawakeenoughforthat.What?OfcourseI'mexpectingit.Ibasically

bulliedhimintoanultimatumlastnight.Choosemeorthelimelight.It'snotexactlyhowImeant

forittocomeout.Iwasjusttryingtotellhimlearntodealwithracism,butthat'slikecommanding

abrandnewbabybirdtofly.Thatkindachangetakestime.Adjustment.

The knocking repeats and Kellan calmly says, “I need to change before we head to the art

studio...MayIpleasecomein?”

“Yeah,”Ianswerandliftmyselfuptoasittingposition.

HeopensthedoortorevealadisheveledvisionI'veneverseenbefore.

Ofcoursewe'vehadourfairshareofactualdisagreements,buttheyallendedbasicallythe

same way. One of us decided to head to our respective home only to then be stopped by the other,

argumentresolved,andmakeupsextosomevariationtoconcludeit.Thisisactuallythefirsttime

we'veevensleptapartsinceourfirstnighttogether.ShouldIbeworrieditwon'tbeourlast?

Kellancautiouslyenterstheroom.“Ireceivedacalllastnightconfirmingourwinningbid.We're

allowed a private showing of the studio any time from 10 to 4. It's their normal business hours for

Sunday.”

“I can go alone if you want.” My suggestion sinks his entire demeanor. His shoulders plummet

whiletherestofhisbodystrugglesnottobuckle.“Imean...Idon'thaveto.Ijust...Iknowhowmuchyou

hateartstuff.Figuredmaybetherewassomethingelseyou'dratherseeinthecitybeforewego.”

Kellanstartstoretortyetquicklyclampshisjawshut.Afteralongexhale,hestates,“Iwantus

together.Whereverthatis.”

Thepossibledoublesidedanswerlowersmyeyebrowsinconfusion.

Well,whatdoyouthinkhemeant?

“IorderedusbreakfastifyouwouldliketoeatwhileIgrabashower.”

Iattempttolightenthemood.“Arethereberriessmotheringit?”

Kellan lets go of a small smile. “There are berries on the side and plenty of bacon to keep my

favoriteallAmericangirlcheerful.”

Withthathestrollstothebathroomwhereheshutsthedoor.OnceIheartheshowerstart,Ihopout

ofbedandhustletokitchenportionofthesuite.Onthebarcounterthereisabuffetofoptionstosuitboth

of us. I smile at his thoughtfulness as I reach for a plate. I stack it with pancakes, bacon, eggs, and

strawberries on the side before I relocate to the table where I enjoy watching the last half of Legally

Blonde.

YouknoweverySpringtheyplaythismoviearidiculousamount.NotthatIwatchitevery

timeit comes on. Just occasionally. Oh...Don't give me that look! You know it's funny! And more

importantlyyouknowthemessagematters.

BythetimeKellancomesoutcompletelychanged,thecreditsarebeginningtoroll.Weexchangea

fewcasualwordsaboutthebreakfastchoicesbeforeIdisappearthewayhecametoshoweraswell.A

little after ten, we're both changed, luggage packed, and strolling side by side to the McAllizter Art

Studio.Thecrispwindhitsmybarelegsinstantlymakingmeregretnotputtingtightsonunderneathmy

jeanskirt.

The temperature implied a warm day. Forgive me for not bothering to read how cold the

windwaspredictedtobe.

KellanopensthedoortothestudioandIrushinsidetoenjoytheblastingheat.

“We'reclosedtoday,”awomansaysfromanunseenlocation.

Myeyesdoaquickscanoftheroomforthevoiceyetcomeupcompletelyempty.

Thevoicerepeats,“Weareclosedtodayforaprivateshowing.Brunopleaseshowthemout.”

Thesecurityguardwhowaspatientlywaitingforhiscuemotionshishandtowardsthedoorwhile

theotherlingersathisside.

“We are the private showing,” Kellan announces firmly. “Kellan Kenningston. I bid on the

afternoonyesterdayduringasilentauction.”

Suddenly there's a clicking sound that remind me of heels. “Kellan!” Our eyes shift up to the

secondlevelwhereastunningblondewomaninasultryblackdressisstanding.“Ididn'trecognizeyou

onthemonitor!”Herhandscurlaroundtherailing.“YoulookevenmoreamazingthanthelasttimeIsaw

you.”

Undermybreath,Isnip,“Isthereanyonewomanontheplanetyouhaven'tsleptwith?”

Heclearshisthroatandsaysback,“Whythankyou,Candy.Youlookquitestunningaswell.Isee

marryingayogainstructorhasamultitudeofbenefits.”

Candygigglesandshakesherhead.“Ididnotmarryherbecauseshewasayogainstructor.Itjust

madeworkingouteasier.”

Okay...Mymistake.

Kellan smugly smirks at me. “Candy and I met through her wife who is an avid donor to The

CollinMurphyFoundation.It'stheonewhohostedtherunIattendedearlierthisyear.Herwife,Mandy,

hadayoungersiblingwhodiedofacutelymphocyticleukemiawhenshewasateenager,whichledtoher

decisiontowanttogivetothefoundation.ImetMandywhoisactuallyfromRortaverian,acoastalcityin

Doctenn,duringatriathlonforthefoundation.”

Iattempttoun-wedgethefootdownmythroat.“Oh...”

Hehumsvictoriouslyandreturnshisattentiontoher.“So,aretherespecificinstructionsforour

privateshowing?Thingswecanandcannottouch.”

“Youareneverallowedtotouchtheartworkunlessyou'vepurchasedit.”

“Arethepaintingsavailableforpurchase?”

Hisquestiongrabsmyattentionyethedoesn'tlookmydirection.

NowaydoIleaveherewithaoneofkind...anything...Doyouhaveanyideahowmuchthese

paintings go for? I barely belong sharing the same air space with them. I definitely don't belong

havingonetohanginmybedroom.Wellofcourseitwouldbeforme.Kellanisallergictoactual

artwork. The walls of his penthouse are primarily bare except for the signed lacrosse poster from

hisfavoriteteam,whichhangsoverhisbarandthefewphotosofuswe'vehadframed.Youdon't

think he'd buy one of these paintings as a 'remember me' break up present, do you? That's

not...That'snotsomethingnormalpeopledowhentheyendarelationship.Theydon'tgivetheother

personapartinggift...ThenagainthisisKellan.Verylittleabouthimorthisrelationshipisnormal.

“Theyare,”Candyanswers.“Ifyoufindonethatyouwishtotakewithyou,youcansummonme

down and we can discuss a price. Other than that, the studio is yours to enjoy. No photography. No

videos.SomethingI'msureyoucanappreciate,Kellan.”

Afterlastnight,thatmakestwoofus.Idon'tthinkI'veeverhadmypicturetakensomany

timesinonenight.I'vealsoneverbeentrendingbefore.Can'tsayIenjoyedit.Havinganaudience

ofstrangersjudgemeonmylooksandridiculemeoverwhatfeltlikebeingbackinhighschoolbut

onamuchlarger,muchmoreviciousscale.

“Becausetheprivateshowingisyou,Kellan,Iwillhavethecamerasshutoffwiththeexception

oftheexits.There'sathinredlinethatlooksliketapeinfrontofthedisplays,whichisactuallyanalarm

trigger.Itwillsoundifyouaretooclose.Atthatpointpleasebeaware,Brunowillbeforcedtoverify

youhaven'tcompromisedtheartandescortyouout.Ifyouhaveanyquestions,feelfreetohitoneofthe

intercombuttons,andit'llpromptlygrabmyattention.”

“Thankyou,”Kellansayskindly.

“Yes,thankyou!”Iexclaim,overeagertoseeartistsI'vespentyearsfollowing.

Candy heads back into her office while we make our way straight back down the hall, past the

welcomingwall.Ontheothersideisthefirstsetofpaintingspositionedonabrightredwall.Eachofthe

creationsseemtocometolifewiththeassistanceoftheaccentedbackground.

Makingsuretokeepbehindtheline,IlonginglystareatthemasterpiecessecretlysolemnthatI'll

nevercreateanythingremotelyworthbeinginaplacelikethis.

Bestcasescenario?Igraduateandgettorunaplacelikethis.Youknow,ifIeverhavethe

desiretodothat.Worstcasescenario?Iendupworkingatacraftstoresellingoverlypricedpaintto

parentswhohaveenrolledtheirteenagersinadvancedartclasses.Eitherway,beingshowcasedina

wellrenownedgalleryisn'thappening.

“That looks like a porcupine with a party hat,” Kellan jokes from beside me. “And not a good

partyhateither.”

Irollmyeyesatthecomment.

“Sorry,”hemutterssheepishly.“It'sjust...I'veseenthousandsofpaintingsandnotoneofthemhas

everlookedlikesomethingworthspendingafortuneon.”

“Wediscussedthiswhenwefirstmet,”Isweetlyremindhimaswemovealongtoanotherwall

whereasinglepaintingisdisplayed.“You'lleventuallyrunintoapieceofartthatscreamsatyousoloud

youwon'tbeabletoignoreit.That'llmoveyouinwaysyoudidn'tevenknowpossible.”Myheadtiltsat

theabstractpiece.“IjusthopeI'maroundtoseeit.”

Realizingmyconfession,Iquicklymovefurtherintothebuilding,thistimeheadingfortheright

corner in hopes of gaining my composure before he catches up. The section is dimmed darker than the

other half of the room presenting the paintings in their ideal lighting and I take advantage of that along

withthebenchpositioneddirectlyacrossfromthem.

SecondsafterI'mseated,Kellanslidesdownbesidemeinsilence.

Unable to take the tension any longer, I quietly snap, “Did you bring me here as some sort of

unusual way to say goodbye? To say you don't wanna do this anymore? Am I here to pick out a

consolationprizeforlosingyou?”

Kellandoesn'trespondandthecompressioninmychestIbattledallnightreturns.

Wow...Sothisisover.

“Ihateart,”hebeginsslowly,“andyetI'vebeentomoregalleriesandshowingsandartstoresin

thepastthreemonthsthanIeverthoughtimaginable.Ihateartyetoneofmyfavoritethingsislisteningto

yourambleonaboutwhatyou'restudyingwhenyougethomefromclass.”Asmilethreatensmyface.“I

hateartandeverydaypartofmehatesitalittlelesssimplybecauseyouloveitalittlemore.”

MyheadwantstoturnbutIrefuse.

“Simply because it brings you so much pure unadulterated joy. Because it brings passion and

purposetoyourlife.TheonlythingIfindmyselftrulywantinganymore,Brie,isyourhappinessasifit

were my own.” Unable to resist any longer, I allow our eyes to meet. “It's why I handled last night's

momentssopoorly.Icouldn'tstandtheideaforoneminutethatyouwerehurtbytheirwordsorangered

by their actions. I...I was upset because for the first time since we started dating I felt your happiness

wouldbeinactualjeopardy.Thenotionthatitwasandtherewasn'tanythingIcouldtoprotectitdrove

me to a level of madness I've never experienced before. My brother says, it's what happens when you

lovesomeone.”

Mymouthslowlycreaksopen.

“AndIdoloveyou,Brie.Idon'tcareaboutwhatanyonethinksorsaysordoesaslongasIknow

you'reallright.Thatyou'llbeallright.Andifforsomereasonyou'renot,Iwanttobetheonewhohelps

make it all right.” His hand gently grazes my cheek. “Always.” Kellan doesn't bother waiting for a

response before softly smashing his lips to mine. The moment our tongues reunite a sigh of relief slips

free from both of us. My arms wrap around his neck as I allow his apology to transform into a deep

declarationofsomuchmorethanasimpleIloveyou.

I've been in love before and it's never felt anything like this. I've never had anyone who

makesmefeelsonaturallybeautifulinsideandout.Someonewhoiswillingtosacrificehimselfor

hisownhappinessforthesakeofmyown.I'venevermetanyoneelseIwaswillingtodothesame

for.SomeoneIwaswillingtoberidiculedorunfairlyjudgedforsimplystandingbesidethem.I've

nevermetanyoneIwasthiswillingtofightwithandfor.Betweenyouandme?Ihopewhateverwe

have,lastsalifetime.IhopethatIwaswrongbefore.Ihopethisprincesomedayturnsmeintohis

princess.

Brie

“Ugh,whatisthat?”Theredheadedteengags.

Politely,Ianswer,“It'scauliflowermacaroniandcheese.”

Shegagsagainbeforesneeringatme.“Whatwaswrongwithregularmacandcheese?”

Despite the nasty attitude that came with the question, I'm totally with her on that one. I

meanIgetit.They'reallforhealthyeatsandblahblahblah,butcomeon.It'smacandcheese!It's

meanttobecheesyandcreamyandterribleforyou.

Iforceanotherpolitesmile.“Thisisthechoiceapprovedbytheschool.Wouldyoulikeascoop?”

Theteenskipsthedecisiontoanswermeandreturnstotalkingtoherfriendwhoistextingbeside

her.

“It'sthelastweekofschool,can'tyouservebetterfood?”Aguyinaletterman’sjacketquestions

asheglancesathisselections.

It'sthelastweekofschool,can'tyoubeabetterperson?

ThroughgrittedteethIstate,“Thisiswhatwasapprovedbytheschool.”

“School sucks so the food sucks. Makes sense,” the guy chuckles with the support of his two

friendsbehindhim.

Last Monday of the school year and almost every person who has come through the line is

makingsureIappreciatethatfact.Forthepastthreehours,ithasbeenanendlessparadeofyouth

complainingaboutthelunchchoices.Nevermindthefactwehavenosayinwhatthey'reservedand

usuallyverylittlesayinwhenit'sserved.Theydon'tgiveashitthatitiscompletelyoutofourhands.

Theyjustblameusasifoursecretmissioninlifeistomakethemmiserable.Newsflash.Ifitwas?I

personallywouldn'tbesecretiveaboutit.

The last wave of students file out of our serving area and Bernice closes the garage style door

behindthem.

“Ungrateful sons of bitches,” she mumbles, locking it to insure they don't attempt to return. “If I

wasn'ttryingtohelpputmyyoungestthroughcollegeIswearI'dgobacktoworkingatToni'sIceCream

Parlor.”

Ihitherwithasmile.“I'msureheappreciatesit.”

“Mmm...Hecanappreciateitalittlebetterbypickingadamnmajor.”Bernicemakesherwayto

mysideofthestation.“Don'tyoufinallygraduatethisweek?”

“Hopefully.Itookallmyfinalslastweek,andImeetwithmyprofessortomorrowtodiscussmy

finishedportfolio.Ifeverythinggoessmooth,Iwillfinallywalkacrossthestageintwoweeks.”

“Youexcited?”

Iscrapetheleftoverpastaintothetrashcanshe'swheeledover.“Relieved.”

“Ibet,”shehums,followingmyactionwiththebowlofsaladleftover.“Haveyoudecidedwhat

youwannado?Appliedforjobsanywhere?”

Sheepishly,Ishakemyhead.

Notafuckingclue.UnlikeJoviwhohasalreadymadeherwayintotheartindustry,Ihave

never worked for anyone in the business other than a required internship last year. To be honest,

aftertalkingtoCandyafewweeksago,I'mnotsureifthegallerylifeisforme.Sure,theideaof

beingsurroundedbypromisingpillarsintheindustrywouldbeexcitingbutatthesametimeIthink

I'dbegintofeelinadequatelikeIdidattheTremeshowing.IthinkifIwereatalentscoutthesame

feelings would occur. Graduating and having no clue what you're going to do sucks, just for the

record.Attheendofthisweek,Idon'tevenhaveadaytodayjobanymore.Hm.Thatremindsme.

Post-graduationImaynothaveanapartmentanymoreeither.Adultingsucks.

AfterBerniceandIclearoutourfoodstations,helpwashdishes,andprepforthemorning,we're

abletoleavealittleearlierthanexpected.Withinthefirstthreeminutesinmycar,mycellphonebegins

toring.

Ihitthespeakerphonebutton.“Hello.”

“Thought you'd still be at work,” my dad says with a hint of surprise in his tone. “Everything

okay?”

“Yup.Justoffalittleearly.”

“Headedhome?”

“Yeah.”Asquicklyasthewordleaves,Icorrect,“Well...toKellan's.”

Whichispracticallyhome.Wespendmostnightsathisplaceevenwhenwe'vespenttheday

atmine.It'sbeenworkingoutforthebest.IspendthenightatKellan's,Merrickspendsthenightat

our place, and we all hang out most days somewhere in the middle. Maybe that's why I'm not

panickingmoreoverhavingtoleavetheapartment.I'vebasicallymovedoutalready.

“Speakingof,Iwascallingtoseeifyouhadanyspecialrequestsforyourparty.”

Pullingintothefarlane,Iquestion,“Whatparty?”

“Yourgraduationparty!”

Theconfusioncompletelyremains.

“Kellan told us not to worry about taking you to dinner after your graduation because he had

alreadybookedaplaceforyourparty.Ithoughttheleastwecoulddowasbringsomethinglikethecake

orcupcakesorsomesortofdessert.Itriedcallinghim,buttherewasnoanswer,soIfiguredIwouldask

thegraduateherself.”

Awesettlesintomysystem.

Asurpriseparty?Ugh.Doeshehavetokeepgettingsweeter?

“Chocolatewithchocolatefrosting.”

“That'smygirl....”

“And be thankful he didn't answer. He would've said some sort of cheesecake with berries or

pineappleorsomeotherbizarretoppingandIwould'vehadtosmashitinhisface.”

Thetwoofuslaugh.“GladIcalledthen.”

“It'sforthebest.”Iaccelerateontothehighway.“Isitjustyou,mom,andCandicecoming?”

“He told us we could invite whoever we wanted to celebrate in your success,” my father sings

likeaJaybird.“I'vehadtocutyourmother'slistdownthreetimesalready.Ifigurebynextweekit'lllook

morereasonable.Withthewayshewasjustaddingnamestoityou'dthinkyoutwoweregettingmarried.”

Theideamakesmesmile.

It'scrossedmymind!Iknow!Iknow!It'swaytoofastandwaytoosoon,but...

Toomuchsilencepasses,whichspursmyfathertoask,“Brieyoutwoaren't-”

“No,”Idenyquicklythistime.“Wehaven'tevendiscussedlivingtogetherletalonemarriage.”To

mysurprisethere'sahugeexhale.“Youcanrelax,dad.Yourlittlegirlisn'tabouttowalkdowntheaisle

anytimesoon.”

“Good,”hesayswithreliefinhistone.

“IthoughtyoulovedKellan.”

“Ido,”heassures.“AndIwouldn'tmindthetwoofyoulivinghappilyeveraftersomeday.Key

wordsare...someday.Nottoday.”

Myfather'sprotectivenessmakesmegrinwildly.

Daddy's little girl. He says that now but something tells me some day will never happen in

hishead.Idon'tthinkhe'lleverbereadytogivemeup.

“Alright dad, I'm here. Gonna head up.” I pull into the private parking space reserved for me.

“Wasthereanythingelseyouneeded?”

“No,”hereplies.“Enjoyyourevening.”

“Iloveyou,dad.”

“Loveyoutoo.”

ThecallendsandIslowlyshakemyhead.

Aparty?He'sthrowingmeaparty?Ithoughtmymothersendingoutamilliongraduation

announcementswasmorethanenough.Whyisheinsistingonmakingthisdaysuchahugedeal?

It'snotlikeit'simpressive.It'stakenmetenyearstogetabachelor'sdegreeandIstillhavenoidea

whatI'mgoingtodowithit.

Igrabmybagaswellasmyportfoliocaseandtaketheelevatorconnectedtohisbuilding.Once

I'vereachedhisfloor,Iswipemycardtoallowmeaccesstothelevel,quicklywalkdownthehall,and

usemycardagaintoenterhispenthouse.

ThemomentIenter,IhearKellan'svoicerushtoendacall.“Iappreciateyoucallingtoletme

knowtheresults.”

Entireplacelookslikesomethingyou'dseeinamovieright?Aperfectlystagedover-priced

movie. For the most part, I don't mind the lack of color. The dark grays and the whites create an

expectedcrispmodernvibe,butalsomakeitimpossibletohideanysortofspill.Hey,it'snotlike

I'm Fred Sansford or something. It's just that sometimes getting a midnight snack while half sex

stonedcangetalittlemessy.

There'sashortpause.“Mmm,youaswell.”

Veering to the left where his small open kitchen is located, I carefully place the bags in the bar

seat,andask,“Wasthataphonecallaboutmysurpriseparty?”

“No.Itwasmyphysiciancallingwithmylatestlabresults.Apparently,I'mcompletelyclean.”He

wipeshishandswiththedishtowelbeforetossingitoverhiswhitet-shirt.“Andit'snotasurpriseifyou

know,love.”

Ihelplesslysmile.“Myfatherletthecatoutofthebag.”

Kellanimmediatelyfrowns.

“It'snothisfault!HethoughtIknew!”

“What'dhecallfor?”

“Askmeaboutthecake...”

“Icanhandlethecake,”hehuffs,plantinghishandsonthecounter.

“Idon'ttrustyouwithcake.”

“Youdon'ttrustmewithcake?”

“Cheesecakeisnotcake.”

“It'sinthename!”

“See.”

Kellanrollshiseyes.“Yourparentsdon'tneedtobringanything.I'vegotitcovered.”

“Well,they'rebringingthegoodcake,sojustacceptit.”

“Thegoodcake?Doesthatmeanyouwon'teatwhatevercakeIordered?”

Ibobmyheadwithaplayfulexpression.“Depends.Doesyourcakeincludefruitsubstanceofany

kind?”

“No.”

“Then maybe.” He rolls his eyes again while I lightly laugh. “You do know....you don't have to

throw me a party, right? I'm just doing something a normal person would've done like four to six years

ago.”

Hisexpressionsoftens.“It'sanaccomplishmentnomatterhowlongittakestofinish,love.Enjoy

it.You'veearnedit.”

Itrytosmile.

IknowIhave.I'veputintheworktofinishandtheworktopaytofinish.Iguesspartofme

isstillindisbeliefit'shappening.

Myheadnodstowardsthestovebehindhim.“Whatchacookin'goodlookin'?”

“Currently,atomatocreamsaucefromscratch.”

Impressed, I fold my arms across my chest. “Scratch? Like cut the tomatoes yourself kinda

scratch?”

“Indeed.”

“Haveyouhadtousethefireextinguisheryet?”

“Thatonlyhappenedtwice!”

Cooking is definitely something neither of us are good at. However, he is more adamant

aboutchangingthatthanme.Kindahopeheneverconquersit.NotsureIneedhimaddingtothe

reasonshe'salreadypracticallyperfect.

“Wannatryit?”Kellancautiouslyasks.

“Haveyoutriedityet?”

Heslowlyshakeshishead.

“Letmegetthisstraight.Youwannapoisonmetosaveyourself?”

“It'snotpoison.”

“Thenyoutryit.”

“No.”

“You are trying to kill me. Seems like there are easier ways to break up than a murder, suicide

situation.”

“Fine.We'lldoittogether.”

“Likeasuicidepact?”

Hisheadtiltsatmeinannoyedfashion.

Giggling,Imakemywayaroundtohimandwatchashedipsthewoodenspooninthepot.When

he pulls it out, he gives it a long, slow blow before offering it. At the same time we lean forward and

slurpthetastetogether.Tomysurpriseittastesfantastic.

“Holyshit,”Iwhisper.“Youmadethat?”

“Right?” He whispers back, his own disbelief prevalent. “Now let's hope the rest of the meal

tastesequallyasdelicious.”

“Needmetodoanything?”

“Setthetable?”

Inodandmakemywaytotheblackroundtablethat'sclosertothefrontdoor.Normally,it'sonly

hometothesetofroseshebuysmeeachweek,buttodayit'scompletelycoveredinpaperworkalongwith

hiscomputer.

Beforetouchinganything,Iask,“Isthereacertainwayyouwantmetogatherthisstuff?”

“No.Just...trytokeepitneatlystackedifpossible.”

Ihelplesslyprod,“Whatisallofthisanyway?”

“Mostofitisjustexpansionideasforthecurrentprogram,howeveracoupleofthosefilescontain

theplansfortheorphanage.”

Curiositycausesmetotossmyheadovermyshoulder.“You'reactuallyreadytoopenit?”

“No,”Kellanquicklyanswers,“butincasethedayevercomes,it'llbenicetohaveeverythingin

order.”

Thehintofsadnessinhistonetugssharplyinmychest.

You know, I have no clue what I wanna do with my life or where I wanna go or see, but

Kellanknowsexactlywhathewants,whohewantstohelp,andcan'tmakethathappen.Ithinkthe

only thing worse than not having a dream is having a dream that seems impossible to ever come

true.

Once I've cleared the table of his work items, I reset it with dishes, silverware, and the wine.

Kellanrelocatesthespinachsalad,freshbakedbread,andthepastadishhespenttheafternoonworking

on.Ourconversationunfoldsasfreelyasitalwaysdoes.Wetaketurnsrecountingpartsofourdayandhe

ofcoursehastoincludetheportionofswimminglapsafterlunch,simplytowatchthecolorinmyface

brighteninexcitementatthethoughtofhimnaked.

You'veseenhimthatway.Ifhewasn'taprinceoradukeI'dsayheshouldbeanunderwear

model.TheymighthavetocoverupthatluckyAcetattooonhisassthathegotonadare,butI'm

suretheydothatsortofthingallthetime.

Our meal begins to wind down and Kellan leans back in his seat with his wine glass. “You

nervousaboutmeetingwithyourprofessortomorrow?”

Idomybesttohidetheinsecurityoverthesituation.“NotasnervousasIcouldbe.”

Hisheadtiltsatmeinquestion.

“I'mnotacompleteandtotalwreck.DoubtI'llsleepwelltonight,butitcouldbeworse.”

A sly smirk slides on his face. “I can help with that sleep thing. I have a number of proven

methodsthatmakeitimpossibleforyoutodoanythingelseafterward.”

Isqueezemyanxiousthighs,refusingtolethimseethedesirehiswordsalwayscause.“Youmean

likelecturingmeforhoursaboutlacrosse?”

Hegivesmeabriefglarebeforeheasks,“Haveyougivenanymorethoughttowhatyouwantto

doaftergraduation? I know we've discussed how you'll be taking off a couple of months to search for

viableoptionsbutthat'susuallywhereyouchangethesubject.”

“LikeIwanttonow...”Imumble.

“Brie, you don't have to decide exactlywhere your life is going to go right this minute. I'm just

curious as to where you want it to go? You don't seem to want to paint professionally and the idea of

workinginagallerylikeJoviseemstocauseyourfacetowrinkle.”

I scrunch my nose at the fact he's noticed that. “I don't paint or draw for profit. I do it to help

conveythethingsmybrainhastroubleexpressing.”

Doyouhaveanoutletlikethat?Doeseveryone?

“Artrestoration?Perhapsanartadministrator?Organizingeventsliketheonewemetat?”

Ashrugescapes.“Maybe?Idon'tknow.Iliketheideaofconnectingwiththoseinthecommunity,

bringingthembitsoftheindustrytheywould'veneverbeenexposedtootherwise.SometimesItoywith

theideaoffindingawayforyouthtogetbetteracquaintedwithartistsotherthanthebasics.Showthem

artissomuchmorethanjustpencilorpaintoncanvas.Maybeifyouwould'vehadabetterartteacher

whenyouwereyoungeryouwouldn'thateartsomuchasanadult.”

“Unlikely,” he denies with a crooked smirk. “But your optimism is admirable.” After I roll my

eyes,Kellanputsdownhisglassandasks,“DoyoumindifIseethefinalpieceofyourportfolio?You've

shownmealltheothers-”

“WhichyoumadefunofinyourtypicalKellanway,”Imockhisbodylanguageandaccent.

Heshakeshishead.“AndIwillmakefunofyourhorrificactingskillsnext,ifyoudon'tdistract

mewithsomethingelselikeyourfinalpiece.”

“Fine, but....you have to promise me you'll take all those snide remarks you're known for and

shovethemsodeepdownnooneisgoingtofindthemwithoutacolonoscopy.”

Kellanwinces,hasanothersipofhiswine,andstandswithdiscomfortonhisface.

Myimageryalittletoomuch?

The two of us leave the table and relocate to the bar area by the kitchen where I left my bag.

Duringtheprocessofremovingtheheftyobjectfromitscase,Iexplain,“WhenIbegantobuildthismy

artprofessorexplaineditwastheeasiestthingIwoulddoinmytimeasanartstudentyetitwouldfeel

likethemostdifficult.Hisrequirementwassimple.Youweretotrackwhereyoubeganandwhereyou

endedduringyourtime.Essentiallyaddingpieces,semesterbysemesterthatexpressedwhoyouwereat

thattime.Whatyouweregoingthrough.Whatmatteredmost.Healsoexplainedhowmoststudentsfail

thissimpletask,inevitablypostponingtheirfuture.”Withitnowopenonthebarcounter,Icarefullymove

towards the last page, and Kellan appears over my shoulder. “I don't know if you remember the first

piece-”

“Itwasanabstractpainting.Aweirdmeshofmutedcolors.Noideawhatitwassupposedtobe

orrepresent.IjustrememberthinkingitlookedlikeasadtakeontheclassicPac-manboard.”

Ipressmylipsfirmlytogethertostopfrombitinghisheadoff.

Didhereallyjustrefertomypaintingasan80’sarcadegame?

We finally land on the page, and I can feel my entire body tense. “My final piece is actually a

pasteldrawing.”

Together we study the picture of the single blue eye. I proudly stare at the lines I studied for

monthswhileheslept,whileheate,whileheyelledatsportsonthecouchbesideme.Icommittedevery

detailtomemoryuntilitfeltasifIcoulddrawthemwithmyeyessewnshut.Istudiedthedifferenthuesof

his eye in various lighting, in various situations, and then spent hours mixing colors in an attempt to

captureit.

AtonepointI'mfairlycertainIwasrecitingcolorcompoundinginmysleep.

IttakeslongerthananticipatedforKellantospeak.“That's....That'smyeye.”

“You'requick,”Itease,stillstaringatthedrawing,tooterrifiedtofacehim.

“Thefinalpieceofyourportfolio...isme.”Despitemyreluctance,heshiftsmybodytoallowour

eyestomeet.“Explainit.”WhenIdon'tstarttalking,hesweetlyadds,“Please.”

A deep sigh seeps free. “This is where I am in life. The colors are bold and bright and deep

becauseforthefirsttimeIcanrememberthat'showIfeel.Youhavethiswayofmakingallofthosethings

pop out of me. When you're around I stand a little taller. Feel a little smarter. Hell, believe I'm

more...beautifulthanIevercould'veimagined.Ichoseyoureyebecausethey'reametaphorfortheplace

I've finally reached. In this particular shade, they're accepting of an unfamiliar situation and eager to

understandtheirchangingsurroundings.Ichoseyouasthesubjectofmyfinalpiecebecauseinaway...I

guessIfeellikeyou’rebridgingthegapbetweentheendofmydaysasarunofthemillartstudentand

whateverthenextstepinmylifeisgoingtobe.”

Didthatsoundokay?GodIhopeso.It'smoreorlessthespeechIplantogivemyprofessor

ifherequiresit.

Tomysurprise,Kellan'smouthisagape.

Feelingbeyondexposedandpainfullyvulnerable,Iplayfullystate,“Youcanpickyourjawupoff

thefloor,narcissist.IhighlydoubtI'mthefirstpersontoevermakesomesortofportraitofyou.”

There'snohesitationinhisresponse.“You'retheonlyonewhomatterstome.”

BeforeIcanshyaway,Kellan'slipsdescendonminewithsuchferocity,Istumblebackwardsinto

theemptybarstool.Ratherthansweepmeawaywithhistypicaldominatingdemands,heslowlyrollshis

tonguearoundmineconveyingsomethingunexpected.Onehandanchorsitselftomycheekwhiletheother

wraps around me to draw me closer. With every soft push, he reciprocates his own surrender of self,

allowingmetobethejudgeandjuryintheoneaspectofhislifehe'sneversharedwithanyoneelse.

Hismouthfallsfromminetowhisper,“I'mgoingtoshowyouhowmuchyoumatter...”

Incapable of a well thought out reply, I simply shut my eyes when his mouth returns to my skin.

Theheatofhistongueblazesatraildownmyneckthathasmepantinginanticipationforwhat'stocome.

Kellansendshishandsonamissiontoundressmewhilehismouthunhurriedlydevotesitselftopraising

eachexposedportion.Mybodyeagerlypushesitselftowardshim,anxiousformorethantheteasingtastes

ofpleasurebeingpresented.Oncemyclotheshavebeenbanishedfromthesituation,heliftsmeuptosit

ontheedgeofthebarstoolandtugsoneofmynipplesbetweenhisteeth,toyingwithitmercilesslybefore

repeating the action on the other. Despite my whimpers and pleads to lower his efforts, he laps at the

hardenedareaswhilemypussyachesinenvy.Hisfingertipstaketurnsassistinginhistorturouseffortsby

lightly grazing the wet lips between my hips and smearing the discovered treat onto my nipples for his

tonguetotaste.Justasmybodybeginstotrembleindesperation,hismouthlatchesontomypussytightly,

trappingmyclitagainsthistongue'stirelesseffortstohavetheteeteringorgasmtearruthlesslythroughme.

Kellan savagely sucks while my shaky fingers strain for leverage in his hair. Every twirl, every thrust,

every brush elicits an earth shattering cry that makes me thankful he doesn't have close neighbors.

Suddenly, my breath becomes shallow and my bottom lip slides between teeth. Knowing this warning

sign,hedevoursharderandfasteruntilthequiveringinmylegs,whichareoverhisshoulders,engulfsmy

entirebody.Myorgasmeruptsandhismouthlocksinplaceasifhe'sswallowedthekeytomypussy's

freedom with no intention of ever releasing it. The moment my mind threatens to stop spinning, Kellan

slowly allows his tongue to return for seconds. His earlier declarations intertwine in a powerful echo

insidemyhead.

At this rate, I can't imagine I'll have any trouble sleeping...If a night filled with endless

orgasmsdoesn'tknockmeoutthennothingwill.Moreimportantly,regardlessofmysleepsituation

later,Kellan'srelentlesseffortstoprovehislovestillgethimanAplusintheboyfrienddepartment.

Kellan

“You'reserious?You'reactuallygoingtoaskher?”

I turn my attention away from Brie, who has her head thrown back in laughter at something her

sisterhassaid.“Tonight.Whenwegethome.”

Hughputsdownhispint.“Whatifshesaysno?”

GodI'mprayingshedoesn'tsayno.

“Thenshesaysno.”Icasuallyshrug.“Itdoesn'tchangehowIfeelabouther.”

Hearcheshiseyebrowsinanimpressednature.“Wow.That'sreallymatureofyou.Gottaadmit,

I'm amazed Brie managed to make you grow up. I thought for sure you'd never shake your Peter Pan

syndrome.”

Withacockysmirk,Ideny,“Iwouldn'tsayI'vegrownupquiteyet.Justlastnightwehadanice

creamparty.”

“Seriously?”

“Yeah. Though in all fairness, it did contain a different type of nuts than you're probably

imagining.”

HughgroansandIchuckleprofusely.

Itgaveanentirelynewmeaningtochocolate,vanillaswirl.

“Speakingofdesserts,it'stimeweservethem.”Isummononeofthewaitresseshelpingwiththe

partytoletherknowwe'rereadyforthenextportion.ShequicklynodsandscurriesawaywhileImake

mywayovertowheremygirlfriendisminglingwithherfamily.

Watchingherwalkacrossthestageafewhoursagowassurreal.I'dneverbeensoproudof

anindividualinmyentirelife.PerhapsitwasbecauseIknewexactlywhatshehadenduredthese

pastfewmonths.Stayeduplatehelpingherstudyancientmethodsonsculpting.Spendinghourson

a Saturday in the art store after spending hours replenishing my wardrobe. Whatever the reason,

seeingherstrollacrossitswelledmychestwithsomuchhappiness,Icouldbarelybreathe.Hadher

sister not nudged me to start clapping I would've completely missed the opportunity to join in the

applause.

Myarmslidesaroundherwaist.“Hatetointerrupt,butitistimefordessert.”

Briebeamsupatme.“Thecakemydadbought,right?”

“Yeslove,theoneyourfatherbought.However,incaseanyonedoesn'tlikechocolate-”

“Whodoesn'tlikechocolate?!”

“Thosepeopleexist,”Iinsistwithasmirk.“I'vegotcarrotcakeandafewothertreats.”

Brieinstantlygags.“Carrotcake?That'snotevencake!That'slikevegetablebread.”

“Whohatescarrotcake?!”

SheimmediatelyraisesherhandandIswatitdown.

Terribletasteinfoodsometimes.

“Youtwoareperfectforeachother,”hersister,Candicesighs.“You'reequallystubborn.”

ThepartymembersbegintogatheratthetableontheoppositesideofTheSilverTapPubwhere

theserversaresettingupcakealongsideotherdesserts.Whiletheplaceisfilledwithanarrayofpeople

rangingfromhercousinstoherfriendswhoweren'tgraduatingtoday,wewindupatatableconsistingof

thoseshe'sclosestto.

Withmyarmlooselydrapedaroundthebackofherchair,Ienjoyembarrassingartmishapsfrom

her youth told in tandem by her parents. She squirms. She blushes. She disagrees yet never insists they

stopexposingherpasttome.Sheallowsmetheopportunitytoacceptherforherasawhole,andnotjust

thepartsshe'sproudof.Witheverypassingstory,thedesiretoaskherthequestionI'vebeenholdingonto

forweeksincreases.

Shehastosayyes...IknowItoldHughI'dbefineifshedidn't,butIlied.I'llbedevastatedif

shesaysno.

Afteraplayfultopicchangetofavoritefoods,whichHughandDanajoinusfor,Idismissmyself

topayforthemeal,tipthewaitressesandloadhergraduationgiftsintothebackoftheSUVwiththehelp

ofmybestfriendandSwiss.Briemeetsmeoutsidejustaswefinishuptoletmeknowpeoplearestarting

toleave.Wespendthenextthirtyminuteslettingpeoplecoooverheraccomplishmentandthankingthem

forjoiningus.Bythetimewe'vemanagedtomakeithomeourselves,she'sanexhaustedmessofsmiles

andgiggles.

Her body hits the edge of the king-sized bed in my penthouse. “Thank you again for the party,

Kellan!Itwasamazing...”

Iremainstandingwhileshekicksoffherheels.“Almostasamazingasmygift.”

“YoumeantheLaDegapaintingaboveourbed?”

Yes,Icavedandboughtheroneofthepiecesofartwhenwehadthatprivatetour.Iwanted

thebloodythingtohanginherapartment,soIdidn'thavetostareatitconstantly,butthefactiswe

spendalmosteverynightheremakingitamuchmorelogicalplace.Idon'thavefeelingforitone

wayoranother,butshewasoverthemoontohaveit.

“No.ThatwasjustsomethingIboughtforyoutohave.”

“Butyousaid-”

“IsaidwhatIneededtosayinorderforyounottobeangryIwaspurchasingit.”

Shegivesmeasmallglarefollowedbyacuriouslook.“So...You'retellingmeyougotmeanother

gift?”

“It'syour graduation, ofcourse I gotyou another gift, love.”A deep exhaleescapes at the same

timeIremovethesmallboxfrommypantspocket.Myvoicetriestohideit'stremor.“Ihopeyoulikeit.”

Brie silently stares at the small velvet box extended her direction. Her eyes lift, revealing their

bewilderment.Shegivesmeonehardlookbeforetakingtheoffering.Nervously,Iwatchasshetugsatthe

ribbonandslowlyopensit.“It'salocket.”

Yes. Just a locket. Relax. As much as I wanted that to be an engagement ring I know I

shouldprobablywaituntilweatleastreachthesix-monthmark.That'sonlyacoupleweeksaway,

mightIadd.

Briecarefullyremovesthewhitegoldheartshapednecklace.Icontinuetoadmireherwhileshe

examinesit,noticingtheBonthefrontforherandtheKonthebackforme.

It's got a cursive engraving made out of tiny diamonds. Soph helped me decide which one.

ThankGodshedid.IrealizedthatdayIknewabsolutelynothingaboutwomen'sjewelry.Shocking,

isn'tit?Icaneasilypickoutanoutfitthatwouldputsomeofthebeststyliststoshameyetcouldn't

lastanhoursurroundedbyseasofdiamondencrustedbroaches.

Whenshefinallyopensittothepicture,Istate,“Ilostthatday.”

Shegigglesatthephotoandthenupatme.“Youlosttoagirl.”

“Idid.”Myfacetriestohideitslingeringinsecurity.“Ilosttoyou,butIneverwanttoloseyou.”

The puzzled look returns and I continue. “My lease is up in a couple of weeks. I plan to renew it

regardless of your answer, so that you have a home and I have a place in the states for when I have

opportunitiestoreturn,butI'mneededbackinFayweather.I'vegotfamilyobligationsIcan'tbreakanda

fewbusinessmeetingstoattendwithpotentialinvestorsfortheprogram.”Justasherfacebeginstofall,I

announce, “I want you to come with me. I want you to meet my overbearing brother and sassy sister in

law.IwantyoutoseethecountrythatIgrewupin.Seewhyit'sbetterthanyours.”

Briehitsmewithasternexpression.

“Fine.You'reright.It'salmostbetterthanyours.Afterall,thestateshaveyou.”Sheflashesmea

smileandIsigh,“Iunderstandifyousayno,butatleastconsiderit.Wecouldtravelalongthecoastlike

wetalkedabout.Youcouldcheckoutthegalleriesthere.Perhapsfindsomewhereyouwanttowork.At

the very least you could enjoy your first real summer. One filled with a vacation and sunshine and

reveries.”ThemomentIseelongingbeginningtoblossomIfinish,“Ifyousayyes,ifyoucomehomewith

me,ifyouletmeintroduceyoutotherestofmyworld,moneyisnoobjectofyourconcern.Whateveryou

want,whereverwego,isyoursandwouldbeyourtruegraduationgift.”

Stillnessspreadsintheroomrapidly,takingmybreathprisonintheprocess.Forwhatfeelslike

an eternity she doesn't move nor does she speak. The silence reaches deafening levels, and I quickly

realizeIhavemyanswer.

Iattempttoswallowmysadness.“It'salright,love,ifyousayno.Nothingwillchangebetweenus.

It'lltakemorethanafewweeksofdistancetotearmeawayfromyou.”

“CouldwecomebacktovisitifIgottoohomesick?”

Herquestionsparkshope.“Ofcourse.”

Anotherlullofquietnessoccursbeforeshesays,“Thenyes.”

Disbeliefdartsdownmythroat.“Yes?”ShenodsslowlyandIquestiononcemore.“Asinactually

yes?”

“Isthereadifferentkindofyes?”Thesnarkinhertonefreestheremaininganxiety.“Now,could

youcomeoverhereandsnapthisthingonalready?Iwannaseehowitlooks.”

Withasweetsmirk,Istate,“Don'tbepushy.It'syourgraduationdaynotyourbirthday.”

Shesassesbackassheextendsthejewelryforme.“I'msorry,doyouwantmetocomeflyacross

theworldtobewithyou?”

“Not even half way around the world,” I correct, lowering myself to the bed. “And it's too late

now.You'veagreed.Noturningback.”

ShegigglesatthesametimeIclaspthenecklacearoundherneck.Brieanglesherfacetoallow

our lips to mesh in esuriency. Overwhelmed with appreciation for the sacrifice she will be making by

leaving everything she knows behind to join me in my required endeavors, my mouth romantically

ravishesherswhilewefallbackwardsontothebed.Ourtonguestaketurnsteasingoneanotherwhileher

fingersgreedilygropemylowerabsunderneathmyshirtdressshirt.Herhandsbegintopawatmypants

inunisonwithherwhimpersuntilmyownhungerbecomestoomuchtobare.Inaswiftmotion,Iundomy

beltandallowherwarmgrasptograzemyboxerbriefcoveredcock.Adeepgroanstickstothebackof

mythroat,forcingmetoacceleratethespeedofmyownundressing.AssoonasI'mdone,Iyankupher

lavendersundressandquicklydiscardthedelicatefabricstandingbetweenmeandtheonlythingcapable

of making her verbal agreement to go back with me even sweeter. Unable to wait any longer, my cock

guidesitselftogormandizeonthemostdelectabletreatknowntoman.Anotherharshgrowlisgrabbedas

mydickattemptstosavoreverysinglesmotheringsensation.ThewayBrie'spussyfitssosnugaroundmy

shaft, there's no denying that she belongs to me. That I belong to her. That together is the only way we

shouldeverbe.Myhipsfervidlybuck,completelycalloustotheideaofdraggingthismemorablemoment

longintothenight.Brie'snailsbiteintomybicepswhileherbottomlipslipsbetweenherteeth,silently

beggingformore.Herownhipsharshlyrockupwardcausingmetothrustfaster.Poundsavagely.Thetwo

of us tumble into what feels like a ceaseless cycle of passionate pumps met with sharp arches of her

brazenbody.

Withthefaintestwarning,herorgasmshattersforcingherlipstofumblefrommine,“GodKellan!”

Brie's pussy wildly pulsates. The pleasing pressure from her throbbing pussy shuts my eyes.

Overpoweredbytheendlessconvulsingaroundmybarecock,Icompletelysurrenderandallowherbody

to milk me dry. Scorching surge after surge knocks into her withering climax while her mouth turns my

nameintoaninvocationonlyshehastherighttosay.

Throughoursharedinabilitytobreathe,Isomehowmanagetowhisper,“Iloveyou.”

Hermouthstrugglestoreturnthewords,buttheydon'thaveto.

She never has to utter them again for me to know how she feels. There's something

unspoken between us that has nestled itself past my heart and into the lining of my soul. This

woman isn't just any woman. She's the only woman for me and there's not a damn thing in this

entireworldthatcouldeverchangethat.

Brie

Kellanstretchesoutontheplushcouchbesidemewithonearmtuckedunderhisheadandhisfeet

inmylap.“Comfortable?”

Igivetheinterioroftheplaneanotherglance.

It's basically a living room on wheels. We're lounging on a long white leather couch with

black pillows and a coffee table in front of us where a throw blanket is folded. On the other side

there'sasetofmatchingrecliners,eachwithapillowandblanketstackedneatlyinthem.Towards

thebackoftheplaneisanotherleathercouchcurrentlybeingoccupiedbyadrowsyflightattendant.

Sandwichingthatsolopieceoffurniturearetwocloseddoors.Oneistherestroomfacilitieswhile

theotheristhekitchen.Yeah.That'sright.Henotonlyhashisownplanewithadamnlivingroom,

butonethatincludesaskykitchen.

Still tense despite the fact we've been in the air for an hour, I question, “Is this the plane you

alwaysflyin?Liketheoneyourfamilyowns?”

“Jet.”

“What?”

“It's a jet not a plane.” When I scowl, he smugly answers, “And it depends. Sometimes it's this

one.Sometimesit'stheonewiththebed.Reallydependsonwhat'savailablewhenI'mreadytoleaveand

whoseschedulemightneedtheonewiththesleepaccommodations.”

“Andyoujust...jetoffwheneveryoufeellikeitto...whereveryoufeellikeit?”

Heshrugs.“Mostofthetime.”

“Whatabouttherestofyourfamily?”

“KristopherandSophhardlyeverleavethecountry,sotheytypicallyusethesmalleronethathas

onlyonecouch-”

“Smallerone?Yourfamilyhasthreeplanes?!”

“Jets.”

Iswatathisleg.

“Ou!”

Weallknowthatdidn'thurt.

With a playful expression, he nods. “Yes. We have three jets that vary in size and purpose.

Typically I fly to the states, so I take this one. My father on the other hand is often required to fulfill

numerous social responsibilities for weeks at a time making the one with the bed a more reasonable

choice.”

Disbelief causes me to shake my head. “These social responsibilities, is that all he does for a

living?”

Kellan's face unexpectedly hardens. “Now? Yes. When my mother was alive? No. She cared

aboutmorethanoutdatedtraditionsandfrivolousspending.”

“Youwannahateonyourfatherforfrivolousspending?Thisfromtheguywhoiswearingathree-

thousand-dollarsuit?”

Heglares.“Ihaveexpensivetaste,thatdoesn'tmakemefrivolous.”

“That'slikethedefinitionoffrivolous!”

“No.EnjoyingthebenefitsofatailorfittedsuitandapairofBaninioxfordsisonething,buying

theDukeofLostengrengeagolfcourseforaweddingpresentisfrivolous.That'sthetypeofspendingyou

dotoremindotherstheyarebeneathyou.That'sthetypeofspendingyoudowhenyou'repurchasingyour

good deeds rather than actually practicing them. Once upon a time he lived alongside a woman whose

solepurposeinlifewastomakearealdifference.Toactuallyenrichandtreasurelivesothershadcast

aside.ImaynotthroweverypennyIhaveintomakingsuretheentireworldisfed,butthereisn'taday

thatpasses,thatI'mnottryingtodomoretohelpotherswhoaresimplytooyoungtohelpthemselves.”

Thetendernessmixedwithblindinfuriationinhisspeechshutsmylipstightly.

Iknowalmostnothingabouthisfather.Hisbrother,hisbrother'swife,hismother-resther

soul,areopentopics.Infact,wetalksomuchaboutthemsomedaysitfeelslikeI'vespentthesame

amountoftimewiththemashehasmyfamily.WhileI'vevideochattedwithKristopherandSoph

during a few of his calls and seen old photos of his mother that were posted online, his father is

morelike afairy talethan anythingelse inhis life.He's theking alwaysbehind ashut door. The

kingwhoseeminglyappearsonlywhenhehastoattendaweddingoryellataprinceforcausingtoo

muchtrouble.That'sbasicallytheextentofwhatIknewabouthimuntilthismoment.

“Thinkwecanswingbythespaceyouwanttobuildyourorphanage?”

Hisfacesoftens.“HowdoyouknowIhaveaspacepickedout?”

“Because you've been dreaming about opening it for two years. Of course you have a space

pickedout.”

Heletsafull-fledgedsmiledevelop.“It'sthisquaintlittlearearightoutsideofthecity.It'dbea

perfectplacetoallowthemafieldforsports,plusthehousingareatobecompletelyseparatefromthe

sleepingquarters.”

“Isthatayesyou'llshowme?”

“I'llconsiderit,”heteaseswithawink.“Thatisifyoudosomethingforme.”

“Like?”HiseyebrowswiggleandIquicklyshakemyhead.“Noway!We'renotalone.”

“Comeon,”heencourageswithmirthinhistone.“Betty'spracticallyalreadyasleepandaslong

aswe'requietwewon'tbecaught.”Kellanwetshislipsslowly.“Don'tyouwanttojointhemile-high

club?”

Igivehimasarcasticstare.“Aren'tyoualreadyamember?”

“Notonthisjet.”

Myexpressiondoesn'tchange.

“Truth!”Heexclaims.“I'vehadsexonplanesandjets,butneverthefamilyone.”

Excitementsparks,whichcausesmetosmirk.“So...I'dbelikeyourfirsttime?”

“Onthisparticularjet.Yes.”

“So...you're like a family jet virgin?” I snicker. “We're basically virgins together...Shouldn't we

wait?Shouldn'twegettoknoweachotherintheskyalittlebetter?”

Heliftshimselfontohiselbowswithahuff.“Iamfarfromavirgin.Now,grabthatblanketand

climbontopofme,soIcanprovethattoyou.”

Igiggle,followhisinstructions,andcoverthelowerhalfofourbodiesintheprocess.

ThemomentI'msettledontopofhimasmallthoughthitsme.“IsthiswhyyoudemandedIweara

loosedresstoflyin?Soyoucouldscrewmeintheair?”

Kellancocksagrin.“I'mclever.”

“You'rearrogant.”

Hishandcreepsupthebackofmythighstopushmeagainsthisstiffcock.“I'mhard.”

Extremely.Isitnormalforaguytobethisfiredupattheblinkofaneye?

Rather than continue the conversation, Kellan uses his other hand to tug me to his parted lips.

Upon impact, I whimper, first from the force and then from the satisfaction of having our tongues in a

lasciviouslink.Alowgrowlseepsoutfrommyattempttotakecontrolofthekiss,yetheallowsme.The

unexpected surrender from his mouth is promptly explained by his hand palming my bare ass cheek. I

attempttopullbacktofreemystifledmoans,butheanchorsmetohim,swallowingthesalacioussounds

likeafiend.Thecombinationoffrictionfromhisgrindinghipsandexertedcontrolofmywrigglingbody,

intensifiestheacheinmypussytothepointI'mpantingbetweenbriefbreaksinkissing.Nowpleasedthat

he'stransformedmybodyfromwantingtoneeding,herelinquisheshisgriponthebackofmyneck.Ina

swift, shameless execution, the two of us part just enough to dispose of lower restrictions and fuse

togetherinamutedcarnalcry.Mybodyblanketshisoncemoreexceptthistimemyfaceisburiedinthe

crookofhisneck.Bothofhishandsgreedilyguidemebytheasstoaslow,titillatingrock.Iabandonall

careorconcernwithbeingheardandbreathlesslysinghisnameduringeachvoraciousplunge.

Hesmilesbeforehewhispers,“Youwanttogetcaught?”

Mypussyanswerswithoutmyconsent.

Hisfingersgripharderwhilehisdickdivesdeeper.“Icannevergetenoughofyou...”

Onceagainthetensingmusclesbegformore.Kellan'sneckstrainsfromtheincreaseofmypussy

squeezing.Ilightlydragmytonguealongthedisplayedareainalonglanguorouslick.Thesimpleaction

shiftshismovementsfromcontrolledtochaotic.Heclampshishandsfirmlyonmyhipsandbarbarically

bouncesmybodybackintohiscock'severythrust.Beforeweknowit,thetwoofusarepropelledover

the edge of ecstasy, gasping in a glorious tandem as our orgasms crash into each other. Our mouths

gravitatetogethernotonlytomuffleourmoansbuttooverdoseononeanother.Tosuffocateinthelustful

euphoriawe'vefalleninto.

Whenourbodiesfinallyreachapointofsatiation,Idragmylipsfromhis,andtease“Gladyou

waitedfortherightgirl?”

Kellanletsoutawidegrincrawlontohisface.“Absolutely...”

Weshareachuckleandachastekissbeforecollapsingtogetheragain.

Idon'tknowifyou'reamemberofthisclubornot,butIwillsayjoinitifyoucan.Andbyif

youcanImeanaslongasitdoesn'tgetyoukickedoffaplaneorbannedfromanairline.

Thankfully,theremainderofourflightisfilledwithalongoverduenap.

Forthepasttwoweeksit'sbeennonstoppreppingforthistrip.Wespentthefirstfewdays

moving the rest of my stuff from my old apartment to the penthouse, which went quicker than

expected.However,onceallmythingswerethere,arguingoverdecoratingandsharingspaceturned

brutal.Itbecamemorethanapparenthehadneverhadtosharehislivingareabefore.Afterallthat

wassettled,thedayswerespentsearchingformypassportIgotfouryearsagowhenIthoughtI'd

beabletogowithfriendstoMexicoforLaborDayweekend,andstrugglingtopack.Imean,how

the hell does anyone pack for an unknown amount of time for a trip to an unknown country?

Exactly.DespiteKellan'sinsistenceonjustbuyingmeanentirenewwardrobe,Jovihelpedguideme

thebestshecouldbetweenbreakingdownintotearsoverlosinganotherbestfriend.Therewasno

convincing her that I would be back before she knew it. I get the feeling I'm not the first friend

who'stoldherthat.

Oncewe'vesafelylandedandourbagshavebeentuckedintothetrunkofablackRollsRoyce,

Kellanmakesmyfirstintroduction.

“BriethisisVincent,mysecuritydetail.Vincent,meetBrie.Anextensionofme.”

Wasthatsweetorpossessive?Sweetlypossessive?

Thelargetalldarkhairedmanextendshishandformetoshake.Hedoesn'tsayawordaswedo

or even once we're finished. Vincent gives me a firm nod and turns his sun glass covered face to his

employer.“Home,sir?”

Kellangivesmeabriefglancebeforeanswering,“Thescenicroute.”

Henodshisunderstandingandopensthecardoorforus.Itrytoholdinmyaweatthesightofthe

insideofthevehicle.

There'samajordifferencebetweenbeinginalimoandbeinginsomethinglikeaRolls.This

screams high class to the point my ears are bleeding. The deep tinted windows. The embroidered

deepgrayleatherbenchseats.Thepulleddowntraywithtwoglassflutesandabottleofchampagne

chilling.WhydoIfeelliketheplanewasjusttheteenytinytipoftheiceberg?

Aswepullawayfromtheairstrip,Kellanpolitelyoffersmeadrink.Afterquicklydenyinghim,I

divertmyattentionoutsidetheglass,enthralledbythegorgeousgreenery.Whilepouringhimselfaglass,

he begins to explain how the royal air strip is right on the outskirts of Fayeweather and how we'll be

takingthecountryroads,soIcanseethetruebeautyofhiscountry.Iadmiretherollinghills,thequaint

villasonacresofproperty,andthewaythecityitselfcreatesastrikingcontrastinthebackground.For

whatfeelslikehours,wedrivethroughemptystreetsanddiscusshowbreathtakingthesightis.

“Slow down,” Kellan abruptly announces as the city life appears in the near distance. “Make a

righthere.”

Vincentobeysandturnsontoanunpavedroad.

About three minutes down it, he commands, “Stop here.” The car glides to a smooth halt and

Kellanleansovertoletdownmywindow.“Rightthere.”

Igivehimaquestionableglance.

“RightthereiswhereIwanttobuildHannah'sHope.”

After surveying the huge unoccupied space, I turn completely around, and ask, “You named it?

Whendidyounameit?”

“It'salwayshadaname,”hetriestobrushoff.

“ButthisisthefirsttimeI'veeverheardyouuseit.Cometothinkaboutit,evenyourprogramis

onlyreferredtobyitsacronym,MINOH.”

Kellanliftstheglasstohislips.

“Hannah?Who'sHannah?”

Iwatchashiseyesgloomilyglossover.Heattemptstoansweryetseemsunable.

“Hannahwasthequeen,MissBrie,”Vincentspeaksfirmlyforhim.

Asmallgaspescapes.

IttakesamomentbeforeKellanfindsthestrengthtoexplain.“HannahOliviaKenningstonhadone

gianthopeIhavespentmostofmyadultlifekeepingalive.Shewantedaworldwherechildrencouldbe

caredfor.Itdidnotmattertoheriftheyweresickorhomeless,richorpoor,shewantedtobeabletohelp

provide for them, to give them the foundation to become better people than perhaps they had ever

imagined possible. When she died of breast cancer, Kristopher turned his efforts towards fighting that

battleandIsoughttofinishtheoneshestarted.Iwenttoschooltobetterunderstandwhypeoplebecome

thepeopletheydo,togetabetterunderstandingofthetrueeffectsofone'supbringingfromsocialstatusto

the simple exposure of a book at an early age. I convinced myself if I could understand her vision it

wouldbeeasiertocomplete.Butintheprocessofitall,myownwasbornandsowastheideaofastring

oforphanagesaroundtheworld.Asafehavenforthosewithoutparents.Asafealternativetohelpdrain

theclogged foster caresystems and providebetter health, education, andlove to thosewho need it. To

takethestructureofaneliteboardingschoolandprovideittothosetheworldissoquicktodisregard

beforethey'veevenhadachancetostart.BothMINOH,whichstandsforMinorsinneedofHope,and

Hannah'sHopearenameddirectlyafterthewomanwhorefusedtoeverbelieveinhopelessness.”

What...WhatdoIevensaytothat?God,justwhenIthoughtIkneweverythingabouthim,he

stillmanagestofindawaytosurpriseme.

“Tothepalace,”hisvoicewhispersinwhatsoundslikepain.

Irollupthewindowandcurlmybodyintohis.ThemomentIdo,hewrapshisarmsaroundme,

andIquietlystate,“Thankyouforsharingthatwithme.”

Kellanplantsasoftkissonmyforeheadbeforereplying,“Thankyouforlettingme.”

Neitherofussaysanotherwordtheremainderofthecarride.Ishiftinhisarmstogetaglimpseof

thehighwaysthatleadtotheheartofthecity,buttheviewisshortlived.Wetakeanotherroadresembling

the ones from our country side tour except about ten minutes later, tall gray stone buildings begin to

appear.BeforeIknowit,weturntotherightandheaddownaguardeddrivewaywithseveralsoldierson

eachside.Iquicklysitupstraight,anxioustoseeanythingandeverythingIcan.

Holyshit....I'mreallyabouttoseeanactualroyalpalace!Ohmygosh,whichDisneysongdo

youwannasingrightnow?

Atthefirstgate,Vincentswipeshiskeycard,grantingusinstantaccess,howeveratthenextiron

gatearetwoarmedguardsontheoutsiderightbelowsecuritycamerasandanotheronewaitinginabooth.

Themanstepsoutandstrollsovertoinspecttheinsideofthevehicle.

He approves Vincent but lifts his eyebrows at the sight of me. In a cautious voice, he greets,

“Goodevening,PrinceKellan.”

“EveningDavid,”Kellansayswarmlyinreturn.

“Iwasn'tawareyouwouldbereturningwithaguest,sir.”

Heleansforwardwithawickedgrin.“It'skindofasurprise.”

Davidtriesnottostare.“Indeeditwillbe,sir.”

BecauseKellanneverbringshomeguestsorsomethingelse?

“Relax,David.Takeapicturelikeyouwouldanyotherguestanduploadit.”

Hehesitates.“Uploadittotheprivatedatabasefor...personalfamilyguests,sir?”

“Yes.”

“Nottourists,sir?”

“No.”

“Areyousure,sir?”

“Positive.”

Davidnodsandstepsaway,whichiswhenIask,“Takemypicture?”

“Documentationuponvisiting.Thecamerascaptureimages,butthisisjustanadditionalpartof

security. They take your face and it goes in a secure file. When you return, with or without me present

they'lltakeanotherpictureandcheckitagainstthedatabase.Thoseinthesmall,privatepersonalguest

filearepermittedafteraphonecallofapprovalfromthepersontheyarevisiting.Thoseintheother,are

notpermittedunlessthepalaceisopenforapubliceventinwhichtheywillneedtoprovideproofthey

wereinvitedtothegrounds.Thenthere'sobviouslytheemployeedatabase,whicharegivenpasseswith

theirphotosattached.Therearethosewhoworkforvendorsanddeliverycompaniesandarenotallowed

accesspastthispartofthegate.Employeesfromtheinsidehavetocomeandescortwhateverneedstobe

escortedin.”

There'salighttappingonthewindowandKellanrollsitdown.

Inervouslysmile,extremelygratefulitonlytakesasecondwithhisdevice.Afterward,hegives

usbothapolitenod,disappearsbackinthebooth,andopenstheirongatesforus.Aswe'redrivenpast

theguards,theystandatfullattentionandsalute.

Anotherwaveofanxietyrollsthroughme,butKellanplayfullyattemptstobattleitaway,“They

getpaidtodothat.”

I roll my eyes at the comment though he succeeds in getting me to let go of the breath I don't

rememberholding.

NowontheothersideofthegateI'mexposedtomorebuildingsinthesamegrayrockthatwereon

theoutsideexcepttheyappeartoallbeconnected.Wecontinueveeringtothelefttotakethetrackaround

thecourtyard,whichhasastonefountainsurroundedbybloomingredroses.

“This stretch of the palace is where we host an array of events in our name. Some private for

those with equally pointless titles and some for the selected portions of the public. This entire area is

fittedtoholdovernightguests,banquets,andweddings,”Kellanquicklyexplains.“Thenoverthere,”he

pointstotheapproachingarearightwherethetrackcurves,“ismoreorlesstheareaforthosewhoserve

atthepalace.Securityguards,maids,cooks,reallyanyonewhospendsthemajorityoftheirlifehereas

opposedtoanywhereelse.Theyliveinthisareaandthereisalsoaprivatetutoringareaforthosewho

havechildren.Whilethey'renotrequiredtoliveonthegrounds,itdoesmaketheirlivesquiteeasier.”He

motionshisheadpastthestretchofbuildingbetweenthecurves.“Thattowerandtheoneattheopposite

endaresecurity.Thereareseveralsafetymeasuressetinplacetoinsurethesafetyoftheroyalfamilyif

there was ever a threat and each area tower has a separate purpose not only in that but in day to day

security as well. The path over there between those buildings leads to parking for employees, several

gardens,andKris'personaldwellingthatwasbuiltforhimandSophtoliveinwhentheyneededspace

outsidethepalacewalls.Thereareadditionalsecuritystructuresbackthereaswell.Thereisalsoaback

entrancethoughitisguardedthesamewaythefrontentranceis.It'sjustaneasieraccesspointforKris'

home.”Thevehiclefinallycomestoacompletestop.“Thatdirectioniswhereourpersonalvehiclesare

parkedaswellastheonesweusefortravellikethis.Intheareaaboveitiswhereoursecuritydetailsare

allowed to congregate and relax between outings. They have separate living quarters than the rest of

security,whicharealsointhatbuilding.”

Allofasudden,Vincentopensmycardoor,andextendshishandtohelpmeout.

ThemomentKellanisstandingbesideme,hestates,“Andthisistheentranceforthestretchofthe

palaceoccupiedbymyfather,Kristopher,Soph,occasionallymyself,andnowyou.”

Ifeelmylungsconstrictinapprehensionagain.

Idon'tthinkIcandothis....

Hisfingersslipwithmineandhesweetlypromises,“You'llbefine,love.Iswear.”

After an additional moment of hesitation, a long deep breath, and an encouraging kiss, Kellan

leadsmethroughtheentrywayandintothepalace.

Immediately,he'sgreetedwarmlybymaidswhoscurrypasthimtocollectourthings.

Myjawdropsatthestunninginteriorthatiscloakedinblack,red,andgold.Everythingfromthe

rugs covering the marble floors to the drapery protecting the windows seems to have the same color

scheme as their flag. Kellan leads me around the grand staircase that appears to go on for days and

towardsthebackareaofthepalace.IobserveasmuchasIcanalongtheway,passingstatues,painted

family portraits, and enough intricate chandeliers I begin to wonder if maybe they just own a company

whomakesthem.

Wouldmakesenseright?Andquickquestion,whointheirrightmindwouldwanttospend

theirentirelifedustingthosethings?

Finally,wecrosswhatIamhopingisatleasthalfofthecastleandarriveatasetofdoubledoors

withamaidwaitingontheoutside.

“PrinceKellan.”Shecurtsies.“Miss.”Withanodsheopensthedoorforusandmyeyeswidenat

theroomontheotherside.

There'salongovaltable,coveredwithablacktablecloth,surroundedbyblackchairswithdark

redcushioning.Thetableitselfhasredrosesinvasesandappearstobesetfortwenty.

DearLordIhopetherewon'tbethatmanyofusfordinner.

OnthewalltotherightthereisafireplacewithafamilyportraitofwhatappearstofeatureKellan

asaboywhileonthewalltotheleftandthewalldirectlyinfrontofmearewindowswithheavyblack

curtainspulledopen.

Suddenly,adarkhairedbrunetteslipsintotheroomfrombehindoneofthesectionsIjustassumed

wasawall.

So....Theyhavesecretpassagewaystoo?AmIinanoldSherlockHolmesmovie?Yeah!Yeah!

He'sBritishnotDoctenn.Geez.YousoundlikeKellan.

“Kellan!”Thewomanexclaimsjoyfullyrushingtowardshim.

“Soph!”Hesaysbacklettingmyhandgotohughissisterinlaw.

When she pulls back, she gives me a sweet smile. “You look overwhelmed. I'm hoping that's

becauseallofthisisalottotakeinandnotbecauseofsomethingthisassholesaidbeforeyouarrived.”

“Hey,”Kellanplayfullyobjects.“Iamnotanasshole.”

Wepinhimwithsimilarsarcasticexpression.

“Fine....Notallthetime.”

Igiggleandshedivertsherattentionbacktome.“Itisapleasuretofinallymeetyouinperson.”

“Youtoo!”Iwarmlyagree.“And...ifit'sokaytosay,you'reevenmorebeautifulinpersonthanyou

areoverthecomputer.”Myeyesdrinkinherthin5'7framethat'sbeingdisplayedperfectlyinhighneck

redromperalongwithherdarkhighlightedhairandstrikingcrystalblueeyes.“NotsureIshouldstandso

closetoyouinpictures.I'dmostlikelylooklikeatroll.”

Sophia tosses back her head in laughter before cooing, “Oh, heavens, you are sweet enough to

givemeatoothache.”

“Isthatwhymineconstantlyhurt?”Kellanwinks.

Iblushyetsheslugshiminthearm.“Behave.Thisisherfirstmeetingofallofusinperson.You'll

beluckyifshedoesn'trunfromthispalacescreamingbythetimedinnerisdone.”

Herwarningflaresmyeyesagain.

Immediatelyseeingmyfright,shereachesformyhandandgivesitacomfortingsqueeze.“Ididn't

mean that to sound as bad as it did. I simply meant, you've only seen a smidgen of the Kenningston

brother'santicsoverthecomputer.Inpersontheyaresomuchworse.”

I offer her another smile at the same time Kellan asks, “Speaking of those known for ruining a

goodtime,wherearemybrotherandfather?”

Sophia'sgriponmefallsawayassheturnscompletelytohim.“They'rewrappingupameeting.”

“Thekindwheretheycompareterribletennisscoresortyranttantrums?”

Sherollshereyes.“They'rediscussingtheannualsummerbrunch.”

“Oh...”Myboyfriend'sfacetightens.“AndIsupposedKrisispushingagainformorefundingto

openanadditionalbranchofresearch?”

“Actually,he'spushingforyourprogram.”

Ipeerupathimwithexcitement.“That'sgreatisn'tit?Thatwouldhelpyouexpandlikeyouwant,

right?”

Kellanhesitatesbeforelookingdownatme.“Itwouldifmyfathereveractuallytooktheproposal

withhimtopresent.”

“Doesn'tthisgiveyouachance?”

“Highlyunlikely,”hemutters.

“Don'tbesuchadowner,”Sophfusses,slugginghimagain.“Krishasbeenadamantaboutgetting

your father to give the program more attention. He didn't go in with a separate proposal this time. He

wantsallofyourfather'sfocusthere.”

Kellantiltshisheadinsuspicion.“Why?Whythesuddenchangeofheart?”

Shepushesherpaintedlipstogetherinasealedaction.

“Forthepastfouryears,Krishasgiveneveryefforttohisfight,hiscauseandnotmine.Whythe

sudden change? Why care now? Why give a shit what happens to children whose parents have died?

Why-”Hisvoiceabruptlyhalts.“Holyhell,youtwoaretryingtogetpregnant!”

Mymouthdropswithhers.

“Holyhell!”

“Shut.Up.”Shesnips.“ItisnotcommonknowledgeyetandifyoutellKrisItoldyou,Iwillturn

yourcollectionofMarkaysuitsintoliningforOldRed'sbed.DoImakemyselfclear?”

Kellantriestohidehissmirk.

“Who'sOldRed?”

“Thefamilydog,”theyanswerinunison.

Because...whywouldn'ttheyhaveafamilydog?

AllofasuddenthedoorweenteredthroughopensagainandKristopherstrollsin.

Damntheylookliketwins!Seriously!TheonlymajordifferenceIseerightnowasidefrom

hisslightlybiggerforeheadishischoiceinclothing.He'swearingdarkjeansandapolo.Getting

Kellan to put on jeans or anything that didn't just stroll off a runaway is like trying to have your

wisdomteethremovedwithoutbeingnumbedfirst.

“States finally kicked you out I see,” his brother teases with a chuckle at the same time he

embraceshim.

Kellan gives him a hard pat on the back and steps away. “More like I got wind that your sanity

wasalmostfullyintactagain.WebothknowIcan'thavethat.”

“YouarethereasonI'mgrayingsoearly.”

“Youmeanbalding.”

Horrorappearsonhisbrother'sfaceandIinstantlynudgeKellansharplyintheribs.“Benice.”

Kris lowers his attention my direction. “You must be the lovely woman responsible for my

brother'sleash.”WhenIgigglehetakesmyhandandplantsakissonthebackofit.“Itisquiteanhonorto

meetyouinperson.”

“Youaswell,”IbarelycoobeforeKellanisremovingmyhand.

“That's enough,” he defensively snaps. “Stop slobbering on my girlfriend. Did you forget your

wifeiswatching?”

Sophshootsmealookandshrugs.“Takehim.I'llgetmoresleepatnightinthebedalone.”

Kristopher'sjawdropsagainwhileKellanletsoutaheartylaugh.

“Youdeserveamedalforputtingupwithhim,”Kriswhispersatme.

Myboyfriendswiftlychangesthesubject,“Howdidthemeetinggo?”

Kris'responseiscutoffbythedooropeningoncemore.

This time an older man approximately their same height and build with similar striking blonde

featuresenters.LikeKellanheisdressedinanexpensivesuitexcepthe'swearingaredtieandablinding

diamondstuddedwatch.

Uh.....What am I supposed to say?! Is hi, hello I'm the woman dating your son really

enough?ShouldIboworshakehishandorkisshisringorsomething?

Themangivesacurtnod.“Kellan.”

Hereciprocatestheaction.“Father.”

His attention turns to me and I see an unmistakable flash of consternation in his eyes. “And you

must be Brie Sanders, the woman my son attended the Malskiean Fundraiser with a couple of months

ago.”

Inameektone,Ireply,“Yes,sir.”

“Don'tcallhimsir,”Kellangrumblesunderhisbreath.

“Shewasbeingrespectful,”themancorrectsandgiveshissonasternlook.“Somethingyou've

forgottenhowtobe.”Afterward,heliftsmyhandtoplaceagentlekissonthebackofit.“It'sapleasure

tomeetyou,BrieSanders.MynameisKenneth.Youmaycallmethat.”

Okaysothehandkissing,notaflirtything,butawaytheyintroducethemselves.Sweetina

throwyourjacketoverthepuddlesoIcancrossitkindaway.

Itrytostayinasteadyvoice,“It'sanhonortomeetyouKenneth.”

Hegivesmeasmallsmileandushershishandatthetable.“Shallweallsit?I'msureElliotis

readytoserveushisfavoritedishtomake.”

“Elliot?”Kellanquestionsasheleadsmetoaseatatthemiddleofthetable.“Whathappenedto

Andrew?”

“Hiswifehadherbabyacoupleofweeksago,”Sophswoons,thoughshequicklyattemptstohide

it.“Therewereafewcomplications,sotheyhadtostayatthehospitallongerthanexpected.Theyshould

behomeinthenextdayortwo.”

Once he's pushed me in, he sits down beside me, while his brother and his wife sit in the seats

acrossfromus.However,Kennethpositionshimselfattheheadofthetableclosesttothewindows.The

eveninglightfromthemaddsanunnecessaryboosttohisauraofnobility.

Honestly,notsureIwilleverbeabletowrapmymindaroundhavingdinnerwiththekingof

acountry.IknowKellanlikestodownplaytheentirethinglikeitdoesn'tmeanshit,butlookatthis

place!Hecan'ttellmehistitlesarejusttitlesanymore.

Fiveservantsstrollin,eachcarryingacovereddish.Themomentitisplacedinfrontofme,he

removesthelid,andexposesagreenmessI'mnotthrilledtoeat.

Kellanleansovertowhisperinmyear,“Tryeverythingpresentedtonightandifyoucan'tstomach

it,I'llhavethemmakeyouabaconcheeseburgerwithextrapickles.”

Iofferhimasmileofgratitude.

The conversation proceeds as I do my best to muscle through what Soph announced as summer

wedgedsalad.

Whytheyfelttheneedtoputstrawberriesandsunflowerseedsinitisamysterytome.Those

aren't salad ingredients! And while I don't mind avocado I do when I mistake it for a cucumber.

Oh,anddon'tevengetmestartedaboutthe'lightdressing'onthisthing...

SomehowthetopictravelsbackaroundtomeandKennethstates,“Iassumethisisthefirsttime

you'vebeentoDoctenn.”

Iplacemyforkdowninsurrender.Turningtofacehim,Ipolitelyreply,“Yessir,it'sactuallythe

firsttimeI'veeverbeenoutofmyowncountry.”

Heliftshiswinewithascrutinizingstare.“Notabigtraveler?”

“Notreally,”Isheepishlyanswer.“Prettymuchlivedinthesameplacemyentirelife.”

“Smalltowngirl?Interesting.”

“Are you gonna ask if she's livin' in a lonely world next?” Kellan sings the lyric in a teasing

manner.“Perhapsmentionatrain?”

The joke lifts just enough tension from my chest to snicker. His eyes find mine and I shake my

head.

“What?SurprisedIknowanAmericanclassic?”

“Surprisedyoustillthinkyoucansing.”

Krischuckles,“Ha!”

“Oh what are you ha-ing at? You sound like a bag of dying cats when you're crooning,” Soph

snickers and it spreads to the rest of us. “However, now that we're on the subject of music, we are

attendingtheShorelineSymphonytomorrow,ifyoutwoareinterestedinjoiningus.”

“Whatisthat?”Iaskasourplatesareremovedandreplacedwiththenextcourse.

“There'satheaterrightclosetothecoastlinewherethesymphonygotitsstart.Theyoccasionally

playclassicpieces,butoriginallyandtypicallytheyplaymusicthatsoundslikeorremindspeopleofthe

ocean,”Krisexplains.“It'sallratherlaidbackandverysoothing.”

“Youshouldgo,”theirfatherinsists.“Makebetterheadlinesforthisfamilythanwe'vebeenseeing

lately. Perhaps ones around your brotherly relationship as opposed to the others the media has been

relentlesslyfocusedon.”

Kellan'smouthdropsinquestion,butKrisclearshisthroatandshakeshisheadtostophimfrom

pushing.

“Brie,”Kennethcallstome.“Whatisityoudoforaliving?”

Thequestionshiftsmeuncomfortablyinmyseatandmyattentionawayfromthemushroomrisotto.

“Um...atthistime?Nothing.IjustgraduatedfromTheUniversityofAshwinacoupleofweeksago.”

“Whatwasyourmajor?”Sophsweetlyasks.

“Art.”

Shegiggles.“ThethingKellanhatesthemostnexttopoetry.”

“Both are utterly useless,” my boyfriend gripes. “At least being dragged through art showings

typicallyresultsingettingmygirlfriendnaked.”

Adeepcrimsoncolorfillsmycheekssecondsbeforehisfatherasks,“Andwhathaveyoudecided

you want to do with your degree? Which career path will you be taking when you choose to become

employedagain?”

Theburningofmyfaceincreases.“Notexactlysure...”

There'sahumofwhatIcanonlyimagineisdisapproval.

Beforetheanxietyhasthechancetospreadfurther,Sophinformswithacomfortingsmile,“That's

alright.IhadnoideawhatIwantedtodoaftercollegeeither.”

“Yes,butyouwereyoungandnotnearingthirtylikeIimagineBrieis.”

Gettingthefeelinghedoesn'tapproveofme.

“She keeps Kellan from burning down the other side of the world and from playing strip poker

withactressesinfrontofopenwindows.Thatshouldcountforsomething,”Krisattemptstolightenthe

situation.

Thepraisefromhisbrotheralmosttugsmylipsupward.

Thankfully,Sophmovesthesubjecttowardsafirethatbrokeoutinadifferentpartoftheircountry

andtheireffortstohelpthoseinneedbecauseofit.Theconversationpicksupspeedandfocusinvarious

directions,allowingmetositquietlyandpokeatthehunkofmush.

BeforeIknowit,ourdishesarebeingreplacedagain,yetthistimeIsmirkatthefamiliarsight.

ThisoneissomethingIammorethanfamiliarwith.It'soneofKellan'sfavoritesandone

thatgrewonme,nottomentionmyparentswhohespoiledwithattheoccasionalwhitetablemeal.

Youknow,hemadeahugeefforttobeapartofmyfamily.Tounderstandthemandincludethemin

ourlives.Eventhoughhisworldscarestheshitoutofme,IhopeheknowsIplantomakethesame

stridesforhim.

“Steakaupoivre,”Kellansmuglystates.“Nowthisismykindofwelcomeback...”

“Youmeanhome,”Krisattemptstocorrect.

Hetiltshisheadathisbrother.“DoI?”

“Ofcourseyou do,”hisfather arguesloudly.“This isyour home, whether you choose to call it

thatornot.”

TheanimosityIfeltearlierbeginstoriseagain.

My boyfriend lifts his utensils and snips, “Home would imply a place where your father is

supportiveofyourideasyetminerejectsthemeverychancehegets.Whyisthat?”

Kennethfoldshishandsinhislap.“Thedinnertableinmixedcompanyisnottherightplacefor

thisdiscussion,Kellan.”

“Neitherisyouroffice.Oryourbedroom.Orthekitchen.Orthecar.Orthejet.Orthegolfcourse

oranywhereelseforthatmatter.”Heshovesabiteinhismouth.“SoasfarasI'mconcernedhereisas

perfectaselsewhere.”

“Kellan,”Krisimploresquietly.

“No,”hedenieshisbrother.“IcouldtellbythelookonyourfacewhenIaskedthatourfatherhad

once again said no. I want to know his reasoning this time. In the beginning, I had no idea what I was

doingorhowtorunacompany.Then,Ihadn'tproperlyputtogetheraproposal.Next,itwasn'ttheright

timing.Lastly,Kris'causewasdeemedmorevaluablethanmine.So,tellme,father.Whatistheexcuse

thistime?”

MyeyeshelplesslydragthemselvesawayfromthehunkofmeatIhavebeenslowlycuttingtohis

fatherwhoseentirebodyappearstobestrained.

“Therearealreadyfostercareprograms-”

“They don't work!” Kellan snaps harshly. “Obviously, they don't work or there wouldn't be so

manychildrenhomelessandhelpless!”

Calmly,Kennethcontinues,“Therearefostercareprogramsinvariousplacesinmanycountries.

Astringoforphanageslikeyou'vepresentedwouldbedismissedasalreadybeinginplace.Theprogram

youalreadyhaveinmotionontheotherhandwouldbeviewedasunderminingtheseprogramsthatare

sponsored by their country's tax revenues. And because your program is small and not large enough to

make the charitable donations beneficial, socially or financially, it would be a waste of time and an

embarrassmenttopresentatanyoftheannualbrunches.”

TheharshwordschosendirectedatKellancauseshislockedjawtobegintothrob.Instinctively,I

reach my hand over to connect with his. As soon as my touch lands on his skin, the hostility begins to

drain, and his chest stops heaving. Our eyes meet and we exchange an unspoken moment of warmth

despitetheheavysighfromtheendofthetable.

Gettingthefeelingbeingwelcomedbyhisfather is going to be much more difficult than I

was afraid of. If this is how he treats his own son, what he thinks of his own flesh and blood, I

doubtIevenstandachance.Youheardthosesnideremarksearlier.Whyisthereaknotinthepitof

mystomachtellingmethisisn'tevenaglimmerofwhat'sahead?

Kellan

Briegigglesandbarelypushesatmyshoulder.“Stop....Wecan'tjuststayinbedallday.”

Igivethesideofherneckanotherslowswipebeforemovingmyeffortstotheotherside.“And

that'swhereyou'rewrong.”Mytonguewhirlsaroundherfavoritespotrightbesidehercollarboneuntil

she'swhimpering.Atthatpoint,Ipullbackandgiveheranaughtysmirk.“SinceallotherKenningston's

areaway,thatleavesmeheadofthehouseholdanditmeansImaketherules.”

Sheplayfullyrollshereyes.“Itdoesnot.”

“Itdoesso,”Iargue,“andforarguingwiththePrinceyouwillbepunished.”Mylipslowertoher

nipple,whichIswiftlytugwithmyteeth.

Briebeginstowhimperagainwhenthere'saheavyknockatthedoor.“PrinceKellan.”

Ireleasethehardenednubfrommyclutches.“What!”

“Thedoor,sir.”

Mygirlfriendgigglesandgivesmeanactualnudgetogetoutofbed.

On a heavy groan, I grab the fallen sheet from the floor, wrap it around me, and jog across the

roomtothelockeddoor.Iunlockitandcrackitopentogripe,“ThisbetterbeimportantbecauseIhaven't

finishedmybreakfastyet.”

There'sagigglefrombehindmeandthenthesoundofapillowhittingtheground.

IglanceatBriewhoisstillinthecanopybed.“Youthrowlikeagirl.”

“Youlooklikeoneinyourweddinggownrightnow.Areyousureit'snotPrincessKellan?”

“Doublingthepunishment,”IgrowlandturnbackaroundtoMathew.“Whatisit?”

“Yourfatherhassummonedyoutohisoffice.”

Ugh.Thatmeanshe'sreturnedearly.JustwhenIthoughtwewerecatchingabreak.

“Hesaystoinformyouit'surgent.”

Whichmeansit'snot,hejustdoesn'tfeellikewaiting.

“Fine.I'llbethereinamoment.”

Mathewdoesn'tmove.

Myeyebrowsfurrow.“Hetoldyoutoescortme,didn'the?”

“Yessir.”

“Backforafewhoursandhe'salreadyruiningmyday.”Ishutthedoor,turn,andmakemyway

backtothedresseronthefarwall.“Alrightlove,apparently,Ihavetobereprimandedbymyfatherfora

fewminutes.”

Withgenuineconcern,sheshiftsherbodycompletelyup.“Forwhat?”

“Don't know nor do I care.” Grabbing a pair of silk pajama bottoms, I state, “You wait for me

rightthere.”

Herfacedoesn'tchange.

“I'mserious,Idon'tcarewhatI'mintroublefornow.AllIcareaboutisyou...”Isaunterslowly

herdirection,“waitingrighthereinthisbedforme.Iwascompletelyseriousearlier.Ihavenointention

ofusleavingittoday.”Whenshestartstosmile,Ipressmylipsbrieflytohers.“I'llbebackshortly.”

Briegrinsandslipsbackunderneaththecovers.

JustasIleavetheroom,sheturnsthetelevisionon,thesoundofamorningtalkshowimmediately

blaring.

Believeitornotthisispracticallytheonlytimeshe'shadtowatchit.Sincewearrivedsix

days ago it has been endless obligations and sight-seeing. We've attended the symphony, helped

judgeasurfingcompetitionandhadlunchaswellasdinnerwithmybrotherandSophbeforethey

leftwithmyfatherfortheannualsummerbrunch.Otherthanthat,mytimeduringthedayhasbeen

dividedbetweenmeetingswithmycompanyaboutthestatusofourprogramandwanderingaround

museums, both art and historical, along with the property. That part doesn't bother me so much.

I'veturnedthatintoa'wherecanIhavearompwithmygirlfriend'bingo.Nomatterwhattheplace

is....I'mawinner.

Mathewopensmyfather'sofficedoorandwaveshishandformetoenter.

Thebrightsunisilluminatingtheenormousspace,highlightingtheredaccentsonthefurniturelike

that'sitsonlyjob.Tomysurprisethefireiscracklingandheisseatedoncouchacrossfromitasopposed

tohislongoakdeskontheothersideoftheroom.

Once Mathew shuts the door behind me, my father frowns. “You didn't feel the need to put on

decentattire?”

I glance down at the only article of clothing I'm wearing. “You should feel flattered I put on

anythingatall.Thisconversationisinterruptingsomethingimportant.”

Myfatherreachesforhisglassonthesmalltablebesidehim.“Youshouldsit.”

Drinking before ten in the morning and wanting me to sit are two things that never bode

well.

Idenyhisrequest.“I'llstand.”

“Kellan,youshouldsit.”

“No,becausewhenIsityoufeelcompelledtodragonyourlecturespastthepointofannoyance.If

I stand you typically cut straight to the point and we can both carry on with what truly matters in our

lives.”

Hehasasipandshakeshishead.“You'vealwaysbeenthisway.”

Unsureofwhatheisimplying,Imerelyfoldmyarmsacrossmychest.

“Always.Sinceyouwerethreeyearsoldyou'vealwaysbeendefyfirst,smileinyourfaceafter.

I'llneverforgethowyoupoopedinyourpantsduringyourgreatgrandmother's90

th

birthdaycelebration

onpurpose,simplybecauseyouknewifyoudidyouwouldn'tbeforcedtositfortheportrait.”

Ivaguelyrememberthat...

There'saheavysighfollowedwith,“You'vealwaysdonewhatyou want, Kellan, regardless of

whattherestoftheworldhadtosay.”

Myeyebrowsarch.“Point?”

Hebrieflyglancesawaytothefirebeforebackatme.“Thistime,youhavetostop.”

“Stopwhat?”

“Datingher.”

Confusioninvadesmyreaction.“What?!Why?!”

Myfatherswallowswhateveremotionisclogginghisthroat.“Becauseitiswhat'sbest.”

“Whyisthatwhat'sbest?”

“Becauseshe's...different.”

Disbeliefdartsdownthebackofmythroat.“Andthat'saproblem.”

Hepausesbuteventuallynods.

“And by different are you referring to the fact she's a full blooded American or the fact she's

AfricanAmerican?”Myfatherdoesn'tanswerandrageripsthroughmelikeahurricanewithavengeance.

“Youarebloodykiddingme!”

“It'snotassimpleasyou'rethinking,Kellan.”

“Tobloodyhellit'snot!”

“Thisisn'tjustaboutyou.Thisisaboutthisfamily.Itismyresponsibilitytodoeverythinginmy

powertohonortheKenningstonnameandthatmeansnotonlyunderstandingthewaytheworldworks,but

abidingbyit.Brieisdifferentandwhileyoumayappreciateherdifferences,othersdonot.It'smyjobas

notonlyKingbutastheheadoftheKenningstonfamilytoprotectournameandreputation-”

“Ourreputationisn'tatstake!”Ishout.“BeingwithBriehasn'tnegativelyaffectedthat!Ifanything

Ibehavebetterbecauseofher!”

“Itisnotjustaboutyou,”hetriestorepeat.

“Youmeanthisisaboutyou.”

“I mean this is about the headlines being made where we're being accused of disregarding so

calledvaluedtraditions.Thisisabouttheendlessmediacoverageoveranapparentracewardrawnin

thesandandwherewestandonit.Thisisaboutthefactwespentsixhoursatabrunchwherewewere

laughedat,taunted,andpartiallyignoredbecausemysonhasadifferentgirlfriend. Social expectations

asideforthecircleswemovethrough,thefinancialinvestmentswecouldlosebecauseotherpeopleare

notacceptingofyourdifferentchoice in a lover could be catastrophic.” He places his glass down and

foldshishandsinhislap.“AndIcannotandwillnotletthehappen.”

Disorientationcontinuestoseepintomysoul.

Thisisnothappening...

“Thisflinghastoendanditneedstoendnow.”

Myarmsconstricttighterasmyvoicegrowsgruff,“AndifIsayno?”

“Please,donotforcemyhand.”

“Meaningwhat?”Ichallenge.“Whatcouldyoupossiblydo?Exileherfromthiscountry?”

“That'sastart.”Whenmyjawcracksinshockheadds,“Andyoufromthisfamily.Icannothave

thisfamilylosetherespectithasspentgenerationscultivating.Wehavemorethanourselvestoconsider,

Kellan.Andyouareselfish.Youhavealwaysbeenselfish.Youwillmostlikelyalwaysbe selfish, but

this time, this one time, I'm begging you to consider how this looks to your country. To our fellow

associates.Tootherroyalfamilieswehavebeencompanionswithforgenerations.Wecan'tjustthrow

all that away because you are hell bent on proving your unwavering ability to defy authority. You may

enjoy being under the false veil that leaves you to be believe something like race doesn't matter to the

worldanymore,butyoumysoncan'tcontinuetobesobloodyblind.”

Iattempttocollectabreaththroughburninglungsbutaminterruptedbyabrokenvoice.“Ihateto

interrupt...”

No...No.No.No.Pleasetellmeshedidn'thearanyofthat.

“Youdon'tbelieveinknocking?”Myfathersnaps,hisownvoiceshaky.

“Ium...Idid,”Briewhispersholdingbackwhatsoundslikeasob.“Repeatedlyactually.Youmust

nothaveheardme.”

“Anditcouldn'thavewaited?”Hesnipsagain,whichforcesmyfacehisdirection.

“For you to go off in another bigoted tantrum, I imagine not.” I turn my attention back to my

girlfriend'ssolemnface.“Youalright,love?”

“No,”sheanswersvoicestilluneven.“Ium...Ineedtogohome.”

“Youdon't,”Isighheavily.

“No...I...do. My father had a heart attack and was rushed to the emergency room. He's....He's in

surgery.”

ThedreadbeginstodrownmeasIrushtowardsher.

Ratherthanallowingmetoembrace,sheflinchesbackwards.“Ineedtogohome,Kellan.”

“I'llhavethejetfueledandwaiting.”Myfatherrisestohisfeet.“I'llsendsomeonetocollectyour

things.”

“Thankyou,sir,”Briewhispersbeforespinningonherheelsanddashingout.

Iturnandgivehimahardlook.“Thisisfarfromover.”

Hegivesmeaslowshakeofhishead.“Idon'tthinkitis.”

Withoutanotherword,Istormoffaftermygirlfriend,theconditionofherfatherandcallousnessof

minecombiningtogethertocreateanexcruciatinglypainfulpurgatoryneitherofusdeservestodwellin.

***

The return flight to the states is as agonizingly quiet as the hasty preparation was. Since having

interrupted the conversation with the news of her father, Brie hasn't uttered more words than necessary

norhassheallowedformetomakephysicalcontact.Infactshe'snotevenmakingeyecontact.It'sasif

she'slostinherownthoughtswithnointentofinvitingmeintounderstandthem.WhileI'mdoingmybest

to give her space and understand where it is she's coming from, there's a lump of trepidation lodged

permanentlyinthebackofmythroat.

She's just emotional about the possibility of losing her father, right? She's not upset with

me.Shecan'tpossiblyholdmeaccountableforhishatred,canshe?

Afterthecaptainannounceswe'recleartode-board,Iquicklystand,andextendmyhandtohelp

herup.

Brierisesonherown,causingthelumptoswell.

“You should message your mother. See if she needs us to bring her anything on our way to the

hospital.”

Ibegintoheadforthedoorwhenherhandlandsonmyarm.“Kellan,wait.”

WhenIturntofaceher,myrelieffromhertouchisshortlivedandthedreadamplifies.

“ThefirsttimewemetIneverimaginedIwouldseeyouagain.Ineverthoughtwe'ddateorfallin

loveforthatmatter.IdamnsureneverthoughtI'dendupinyourcountry,experiencingthelifeyouspend

somuchtimerunningawayfrom.”Shepausesasifcollectingherthoughts.“AndIunderstandwhyyou

run. Why you act out. Why you're hell bent on enjoying your time rather than wallowing in the misery

looming for you thousands of miles away. It's a burden to be who you are. To be told what to say and

taughthowtosayit.Wheretogoandwhentobethere.Tofulfillexpectationsregardlessifyouagreewith

themornot.Yourunbecauseyouknowsomedayyou'renotgoingtobeableto.Somedayyou'regoingto

havetostop,turn,andfacethecrowd,notbecauseyouwanttobutbecauseyouwerebornto.Youbrush

offallthearistocraticshitbecauseyouhatethatyoucan'talterthatreality.Thatyourelyonthemtogetthe

things you want to get done, done. You are a duke. A beloved prince. You are an image that cannot be

alteredsimplybecauseit'swhatyouwant.”

Herwordscausemymouthtothoughtlesslytremble.

“Youaregoingtochangetheworld,KellanKenningston.You'regoingtogivehopetothehopeless

justlikeyourmotherdid.Butinordertodothatyouneedthosepeopleyourfathermentioned.Youneed

yourfamily.AndIknowyouhateyourfatherrightnow,butyoudidn'talwaysandyouwon'talways.Both

ofyouaresittingonpainfromlosingthewomanyoubothlovedmost.Yourfamilymatterstremendously

to you. It's the real reason you attend balls and functions hosted by zillionaires. You don't want to

disappointthembecauseyoulovethemthesamewaytheyloveyou.Youallwantwhatyoubelievetobe

rightforoneanother.AndI'mnotgoingtobethereasonyourfamilylosesanothermember.”

Mybreathingceasescompletely.Brietakesmyhand,carefullyplacesthelocketinit,andfoldsit

shut.Afterwardsherisestothetipsofhertoestokissmeonthecheek.Inadesperatefrenzy,Igripthe

napeofherneck,andpressmyforeheadagainsthers.“Please...”Iswallowmysob.“Pleasedon'tdothis,

Brie.”

Shesnifflesawayanyconflictingdecisions.“Ihaveto.”

She doesn't! She shouldn't! We should fight this! We should prove him wrong! We

should....Itdoesn'tmatterwhatIsaytoher,doesit?I'vealreadylosther...

“Sir,”Swiss'voicestatesloudly.“Wouldyoulikemetoloadthebags?”

Ipullbacktoallowmytear-filledeyestomeethers.Stillstaringintothem,determinedtodetail

everycentimeter,Ianswer,“Justhers.”MyhandloosensitsgripandItakeanunwantedstepback.“Take

hertothehospitalwhereherdadis.GiveherthesametreatmentandrespectyouwouldifIwasinthe

vehicle.”HisvoicestartstointerruptandIdivertmyattentiontohim.“Don'tworryaboutyourfee.My

fatherwillbemorethanthrilledtopayit.”

Swissgivesmeanodofunderstandinganddisappears.

Briegrabshercellphoneandwalletbeforemakingherwaytowardsthedoor.

Istifleanothersob.“Brie?”

Shehesitatesyetturnsaroundanyway.

InavoiceIbarelyrecognize,Iask,“WhenIcall,willyouanswermelikeI'dansweryou?”

ThereferencetotheonlyothertimeIalmostlosthersendsthelingeringtearsdownherface.She

givesmeonelastsomberlook.Herlackofareplyisthefinalpangthatcausesmybodytocaveontothe

couch.BrieexitsthejetandIshutmyeyesinapatheticattempttonotshedanymoretears.

Thiscan'ttrulybeover...canit?

Wonderwhat'sinstorenextforDukeKellanKenningstonandBrieSanders?

Don’tworry!Theyshallreturnbeforeyouknowit.

CuriousaboutMerrickandJovi?Checkthemoutintheirownbooks!Availablenow.

Classic(AdrenalineSeries#1)

Boymeetsgirl.Girlmeetsboy.Theyfallinloveandlivehappilyeverafter,right?Thatisunlessboyisa

criminal and girl is the daughter of the man trying to catch him. With circumstances this unforgiving, is

thereanywaytheirlovestorywillhaveanendingthatwe'vecometoknowasclassic?

*Warning:Cliffhanger.Thisisthefirstintheseries*

ThankYous!

CrazyLady-SomedayIwilltakeyouaroundtheworld.

HerHusband-Don’teverletyourloveforbooksdie.

SissyB-Yourockandthisyearisgoingtobegreat!

TheLumberjack-InthewordsofNine“YouareFantastic!”

TheLawStudent-ThanksforunderstandingsometimesIhavetocutourtimetogetherforwork.

Katniss-Ilookforwardtofunaheadthisyear!

Throwback-HopefullybabyLivwillunderstandyourswagduties,lol

TheRealLifeErin-Lovelove.

DallasAngie-Can’twaittohavemanylunchanddinnerdateswithyou!

BossLady-Youamazingpersonyou!Fromcoverstoeditstoadvice,youareattheheartofmycareerand

Iloveyou.

Genie-Sparkle,shimmer,shine.Always.

TheEditor-Youareoneofakind,youknowthat?

ThePAs-LeftandRightbrain,thisyearisgoingtogetevenbetterforus!

DreamTeam-Youladiesmakeeverydayworthit.

WhenIGrowUp-ToalltheauthorsouttherewhoIfollow,whohelpme,whohavesupportedmefroma

share,toadvice,Icannotpossiblythankyouenough,butdamnsurewillneverstoptrying.

Bloggers-ThankyoufortheworkyouputinregardlessifIpayyouornot.Youmakethisbigdreamfor

thislittleindiemorethanpossible.

Readers-Icanneverthankyouenough,butIwillalwayskeeptrying.

Untilnexttime….

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Curiousaboutmyotherworks?

Checkthemoutdownbelow!

SensesSeries(SportsRomance/RomanticComedy)

Vital(PrequelNovella)

Blind

Deaf

Numb

Hush

Savor

Callous

Agonize

Suffocate

Mollify

Blur

Blear

AdrenalineSeries(Romance/RomanticSuspense)

Classic

Vintage

Masterpiece

Unmask

Error

Iconic

PrinceofTeaseSeries(Romance/RomanticComedy)

PrinceArik

PrinceHunter

HollywoodExchangeSeries(Romance/RomanticComedy)

AlreadyWritten

BlueDreamSeries(ContemporaryRomance)

BlueDream

PurpleHaze

HavocSeries(MilitaryRomance/RomanticSuspense)

Havoc

Chaos

Insanity

Collapse

Devastate

NeverSayNeverlandSeries(NAFantasyAdventure)

GetLost

LostinLies

Lies,Mistrust,andFairyDust

RubMeSeries(EroticShorts)

RubMeTheRightWay

RubMeTheWrongWay

RubMeAllTheWay

TheJustSeries(SecondChanceRomance)

JustOutofReach

JustSoFarAway

PrivateSeries(RomanticSuspense)

Private

Standalones

Compassion(MilitaryRomance)

Cinderfella(YAContemporary)

TheGamble(RomanticComedy)

Freeform(RomanticComedy)