DAHLIA ALDRIDGE
I knew I had slept well when the first thing I felt when waking up was the satisfaction of stretching. I was obviously still a bit sore, but raising my hands above my head and allowing all my joints to crack had me letting out a happy sound. The scent of roses filled the space around me, and when I managed to finally open my heavy eyes, I realized that there was a brilliant light filling my room. I couldn’t tell exactly what time it was, but I would guess late morning, early afternoon. I sat up easily, wanting to see who was still in here—
My thoughts came to a complete halt.
Oh.
Well, this was an amazing way to wake up. Goodness gracious.
I had no idea where my men were right now, but my bed was covered by six large black velvet boxes that had gold cursive script on them. Each had a large gold bow, and within them were roses that were packed so tightly that all you could see were the flower heads. I felt my eyes water as I leaned over to grab the note that lay on top of the first one.
My smile grew, realizing that each and every one wished me a good morning, each of my men telling me that they loved me in their own way. I swallowed down my emotions, my eyes watering as I looked around the room, wanting to know where they were so I could thank them properly. Noticing that the balcony door was open, I walked towards it and peeked out, briefly hearing what I thought was King’s deep laughter from the pool patio. Had they just let me sleep in?
Not only did I sleep in, but I’d woken up well rested and surrounded by flowers! I swear, these men were going to be the death of me. I looked towards the large clock on my bedroom wall and noticed that it was noon already. My head was a bit sleep-filled, but I knew that I had photography class at some point today. Oddly, compared to yesterday, I was excited at the prospect of going to this class.
Before running around to get ready, I grabbed one box after another and lined them up on the console table that sat behind my sofa, a bright, vibrant addition to my room. A girl could get used to this.
Taking a long shower, I made sure to shave completely, noticing that the bruises looked even worse today, if possible, even though they felt better. I knew that was common, but I also knew that my men would probably be upset if they saw them.
I reached my hands above my head, and while there was still a small twinge of soreness—okay, maybe more than a twinge—my breathing didn’t feel nearly as labored. I got out of the shower, feeling far more awake, and after nearly an hour I’d managed to not only blow dry my hair but put on a full face of makeup. It was going to be slightly cooler than normal today, so I was hoping I wouldn’t sweat it off, but you never knew.
Walking towards my wardrobe, I slipped on a pair of light blue lace panties and a matching bra, my eyes shooting up around the corner of the room, realizing that there was a very large possibility that Yates could see me. I smiled to myself, knowing that I would have fun with that when I had more time…especially if he was busy.
Grabbing a blue and yellow plaid skirt, I matched it with a blue sleeveless dress shirt that tucked into the skirt before adding a pearl-accented belt. After adding some pearl earrings, I slipped on some flats and made my way downstairs, hoping to find my men to thank them for the flowers.
It didn’t take long, since I found Yates waiting at the bottom of the stairs. I flashed him a huge smile. “Hey, you.”
Yates looked up at me and narrowed his eyes, amusement there despite him looking grumpy. “I know what you’re thinking, and if you do that you’re going to be fucked so hard you won’t be able to walk for weeks,” he warned.
My mouth dropped, and I stared at him wide-eyed. “What are you talking about?” I demanded, knowing exactly what he was talking about.
“I saw you look right at the camera, bunny,” he growled, intertwining our hands. “Now come on, breakfast before you have class.”
“So grumpy,” I complained before smirking. “I do have to say, that doesn’t seem like much of a punishment—”
I let out a squeak as my back hit the hallway wall and he grabbed my jaw, brushing his lips over my own. “Don’t, bunny. It has been way too damn long since I’ve been inside of you. Today is not the day to tease me or else I’ll fuck you were you stand.”
“You say that like it’s a bad thing,” I sassed.
“Out back, now.” He urged me forward, his hand swatting across my ass. I let out a squeak and scowled at him as he flashed me a wicked smile.
“You look beautiful today.”
“No, you do not get to be sweet now.” I narrowed my eyes as he grasped my hand and ran his lips over the skin there, but I couldn’t hold my scowl for long. I was going to have way too much fun messing with Yates.
“Morning guys,” I called out happily as I walked out into my fairly crowded back yard. It was a new day, and everyone looked far more put together than yesterday. The table out back was covered in fresh fruit and pastries, and I almost immediately sat down next to King as Yates sat on my other side, putting together a plate for me after I tried to and he stole the plate. I didn’t even bother arguing with him, knowing he would say something about me trying to ‘stop him from doing his job’ or some nonsense.
“What are they doing?” I asked curiously, noting that Stratton and Dermot were talking to a group of guys that looked to be normal security. I didn’t see any FBI vests, so I had to assume that. Also, where the heck were the twins right now?
“Briefing them.” King kissed my hand. “You’re going to class today?”
“I’m going to give it a go.” I nodded and then nibbled my lip. “I think it could be fun… I just get a bit nervous.”
Sterling’s voice filled the space as he walked outside. “Don’t worry, sugar. Dermot is going with you, plus security.”
I melted back into my seat a bit, nodding as I picked up a small blueberry muffin and nibbled on it.
“Oh!” All of them looked at me in concern. I nearly smiled at that but continued, “I just wanted to say that I loved the flowers, they were super sweet.”