My whole body flames red. An odd occurrence given this feels transactional and I’m used to that. “I guess in here. I don’t know what to expect.”
He reaches between my legs and strokes my clit. I wince, and he notices. Even though I’m turned on, I feel tender. Jesse swallows hard and continues rubbing me, just gentler. It seems a challenge for him, his jaw working back and forth, a lesson in patience. He leans his head against mine, and suddenly this has gone from transactional to more. He’s looking at me as if he’s terrified. Because I don’t know how to respond, I lean up and try to kiss him. Thankfully, he gladly accepts it easily, stroking my clit without missing a beat. I moan into his mouth as I grow closer to orgasm, wrapping my hands around his neck to lock my mouth with his. His cock throbs against my stomach and the warm water cascades over our bodies as one.
“Come for me,” Jesse gasps into my mouth. The tenderness all but forgotten, I only think about the pleasure and how it feels effortless to be with Jesse in this way. His gaze darkens, and my pulse quickens, and I come—mouth open, eyes slammed closed, and cunt dripping and ready to take him. Then I realize that’s not on the menu tonight and try to catch my breath so I can steel my nerves for what’s to come.
He kisses me once more and it has finality. “That’s enough for tonight, I think. Plus, we’re even now.”
I squint against the spraying water now that he’s moved. “Even how? I’ll never be able to get even with you.”
“You gave me that blow job made of heroin, and I returned the favor.”
“The talk about ass play was just for giggles?”
He shrugs. “You’ve never done it and I’d rather not have you out of commission in all ways in a matter of a day.”
He gets out of the shower and leaves me to finish, wondering how his mood shifts so fluidly. Drying off, I hear him humming in his bedroom. My cell phone rings, and I rush to grab it from my bag.
“Pirelle,” I say, voice shaking. “Hello.”
“It’s not just me, it’s PACHA. We’re calling to see if you want to join us atInfor a drink and chit chat.” She pauses, then lists their names in order so I know what PACHA means. They’re their own beautiful, educated, boss bitch gang.
“Amy will be there, too?” She’s the trusted one, and it’s obvious I need to choose my alliances wisely.
“She will. We’re headed there now and will snag a table big enough for all of us. I know Riley has business all night so you’re on your own. You’re part of us now. Never be shy to tell us you want to hang out. One of us is always available.” She knows Riley’s schedule and I haven’t spoken to him since this morning. A pang of jealousy hits, and I hate the feeling.
My gaze strays from the bed to the doorway where Jesse is looming, figure large, body still naked. He’s biting into an apple, watching me. “Umm, let me find out my security situation. Hold on a second.”
I mute my phone and tell Jesse who it is and what they’re asking. “Should I go? I don’t really know them.”
He takes another bite, his teeth spanning nearly the whole side of the apple. “Riley would want you to go.”
“What’s the security protocol?”
“Drew, they’re on staff twenty-four hours a day. How many do you want?”
I swallow. “How many do I need?”
He exhales. “I’ll take care of it. Get ready.”
I unmute my phone. “I’ll be there. I need to get ready. I just got out of the shower.”
Pirelle makes an excited noise. “I’m so excited we’ll get to spend more time with you. We want to talk to you about the motel and the plans you have.” She amends. “We want to get to know you, too. No one gets toknowRiley Astor’s girlfriend.”
I clear my throat. “Do you know how late he’s working tonight?” I keep my voice low because it feels like a betrayal as I stand in Jesse’s space, pussy throbbing from an orgasm another man gave me. He said I’m to be Riley’s girlfriend facing the world.
“All night. It’s the merger. I thought you knew,” Pirelle’s voice trails off and I can tell she’s listening to someone talking to her in person. “Never mind.” She clears her throat. “Get here as quick as you can!” Excitement returns to her voice. Is it fake? Am I imagining things? She hangs up, and I get ready as quick as I can. Jesse doesn’t come in. In fact, I don’t even know if he’s still here it’s so quiet in the apartment.
I use the voice feature to figure out whereInis and what the dress code is. Blending in has been my biggest challenge of late, but even I have to admit, I’m getting good at it. Given endless supplies of money and a personal shopper helps, as does a makeup artist. I do my best with the supplies Chaz left for me. A month ago, I was worried about when I’d eat next, or if I’d have enough energy for a late appointment, now I’m worried about if I can do my own makeup, and if I’ll get the security guards I’m comfortable with. When I’ve slipped on a dress and fixed my hair, I grab my purse and find Jesse back in front of the painting of the child.
“Reggie is waiting for you in the hallway. Your car and team are ready.” He looks like he’s having a tough time painting, each stroke a chore. He’s painting the eyes, I realize. My stomach sinks. He doesn’t turn around to look at me. “Be careful with those women. They’re not the kind you’re used to.” From anyone else, I’d be offended, but Jesse knows.
“Do you want me to stay with you tonight?”
He shakes his head. “You should go. You should go back to Riley’s after the club, too. I want to be alone right now.”
“Usually when people say they want to be alone, they shouldn’t be alone. Is this one of those times or do you really not want me?” Direct. To the point.
Jesse gazes over his bare tattooed shoulder. “You’re right, most people lie about everything. You should go to Riley’s.” The jealousy from earlier is gone completely. It’s like he knows he can only give half so sharing a woman is the only way to cobble together a relationship. A broken man. Or are they both broken, and this is a thoughtful portrayal?