Sierra stared at her reflection and sighed heavily. Her hair, always tightly drawn up in a ponytail, gave the impression that she had a very angular face despite her chubbiness. She turned her head from side-to-side, looking at all of the planes that made up who she was. Her hair was a copper brown and her eyes blue. She had a smattering of freckles across her nose and cheeks that gave her a playful look. She had full lips that were always tinted as though she were drinking Kool-Aid, never forcing her to wear lipstick to give herself some more color.
Not that she ever wore make-up, really. As a waitress, she rarely had the time to care about things like make- up, or much else for that matter. She sat there contemplating what she could do to make herself pretty, or what she could do to improve her looks, or at the very least, make her more exotic or something.
She should have never agreed to stand in for Katie on a blind date. It's not so much that she was going to stand in for Katie on the date, it was that she had to actually pretend that she was Katie. It was just as much her own fault for saying yes, as it was Katie’s for asking. She was always there for her, and this minor thing was no big deal, until now. She used her forefinger to push around the skin on her face, testing to see what she would look like if she had a face lift or something. That is until Katie herself came around the corner and gave her a short laugh.
“What the hell are you doing to your face, Sierra?” She said it with what remained of her scratchy voice.
“I’m looking at it, I wish I was more… I don’t know, exotic or something.” She continued to poke and prod.
“Why would you want to be exotic? You're beautiful the way you are.” Katie made her way across the room. “I really appreciate this Sierra, it’s a one-time thing, I told my mother I would go… and you know how she is.” She rolled her eyes as she said it. Asking you to pretend you're me on a blind date is too much to ask, I know."
“I don’t mind at all. I never get to go out, especially to a nice place like Giovanni’s. Are you worried you will get found out somehow?” Sierra stopped long enough to glance at Katie, who was rifling through the make-up pile.
“No, Mom doesn’t even know what he looks like or anything. She set this up for a friend of a friend or something. The guy's mother is desperate for him to find a nice girl and settle down because he's somewhat of a playboy. The only reason I agreed to this blind date was because I owe her for missing my cousin, Owen’s wedding. I just wish I could have found a way out of it without dragging you through it.”
Sierra glanced at Katie. “It’s okay. This interview you have could really be a big break for you. You can't risk missing it by going on a blind date with a guy your mother fixed you up with. I understand, and like I said… free food. Who goes out on a Thursday night, though?” She gave her a smile.
Katie giggled. “So what are you wearing? Oh, and I’ll do your make-up, maybe make you look more exotic!” They laughed together as they set out to getting Sierra ready for her date. They also had to figure out how to make the guy think that Sierra is really Katie.
An hour later, Sierra turned to take a long look at herself in the mirror. She was transfixed on her appearance. The Sierra she looked at everyday was gone, and in her place was a beautiful woman. Her hair, normally full of curls when left, down, had been straightened and now felt like silk on her shoulders. Her freckles were hidden and her eyes were the focal point of her face. Katie used her skills to give Sierra's eyes a dark and dusky look and she added some pink to her cheeks. Her dark lips only needed a hint of color, and she was definitely a different woman.
“Are you gonna stand there and look at yourself all night or go get this silly date over with?” Katie was equally made up for her interview. The two of them stood side by side, staring at the mirror.
“I don’t even look like… well me.” Sierra giggled.
“Well, tonight you’re not you, you’re me.” Katie said simply as she picked up her bag to go. “Don’t forget, meet him at the entrance at 7pm. He said he would have a red handkerchief in his jacket.” Katie walked over to reassure Sierra once more. “I really do appreciate it girl.” She gave her one last smile and she headed out. After Katie left, Sierra slipped on the tall black pumps Katie pushed on her to go with her outfit. She took a deep breath, and with a sigh, she left for the restaurant.
A.J. was frustrated. His latest business merger was in trouble, he was in desperate need of a woman and lastly, he had this blasted date tonight that he didn’t want to go on. The day was dragging and he wanted to go. He flicked open the black book on the top of his desk and sighed. He had an unusual appetite and he needed something new, something exciting to help him calm down. This company… his company was everything to him. He built it from the ground up, and with it, he become an important figurehead in the community. The truth was they didn’t really know him.
He had a dark side, one he kept hidden and he needed more. His appointments were short today. One merger meeting. Tomorrow morning he had one charity appearance for a donation he had made locally. He was always glad when the corporation could donate funds in the city where it was needed. It was almost a penance for the side of him that he couldn’t control. He owed his mother his life and so, from time to time when she would request this of him, he would do it, to soothe her worried soul about the playboy reputation he had developed. He checked his reflection in the mirror and smiled to himself.
He was a playboy, and that suited him just fine. There were far too many women out there for him to have to settle for just one. He loved them all, and enjoyed his life exactly as it was. The unfortunate thing was that he was an only child and his mother was constantly on him about settling down and finding a nice girl to marry, to carry on the family name.
He gave his hair one last smoothing down before he put on his glasses and made his way to the waiting car. One of the perks of running a multi-million dollar company was the luxury of enjoying someone else driving you to and from.
He would be lying if he said he didn’t get a thrill of impressing the ladies by having a driver when he pulled up to a new club in town. He liked to be impressive and his looks helped with that. He took care of himself, working out 5 days a week until he was toned. He had jet black hair, almost shaved on the sides and longer on top. His eyes were described as black by most and he always had a shadowed goatee. He was the epitome of tall, dark and handsome, and his evasive nature with women gave him an air of mystery.
He settled into the cool leather of the seats and leaned back to rest for a second. Hopefully, this night would go smoothly. The last time he went out with one of his mother’s “girls” she bored him to tears until they made it back to his penthouse. There, she became a tigress and the sex was phenomenal. It was typical of his situation. More often than not, these girls would come in, hoping to find a husband and he would charm them right out of their clothes before they knew what happened.
This date would be the same, of that he was sure. He felt the car come to a stop and he made his way to the restaurant with ease. He gave the hot little hostess a smile and she started shuffling the papers in front of her as she blushed. It was almost too easy for him. What he wanted most was a challenge, something to work for, at least a little. He was led to a table in the corner, as requested , and he waited. As usual, he arrived early so that he could watch and decipher the woman his mother sent for him this time. It was almost like an animal stalking its prey. He leaned back some and waited with hooded lids.
Sierra took a deep breath before entering the restaurant. She was nervous that her date would find out that she really wasn't Katie. She knew she wasn’t a mess since she was receiving appreciative looks from random men in the main entrance. She was led to a table, thanked the young lady who seated her, and turned to meet this month's “guy.” She felt the blood in her veins warm up and her mouth go dry at the same time. He stood and extended a hand to her, helping her into her seat. She felt the faint presence of his fingers trace her back as he helped push her seat in. Before she choked on the water she was sipping, she decided to speak first.
“So, you must be A.J?” She took another sip.
Surprised by her forwardness, he raised an eyebrow. “I assume that makes you Katie. Yes, I am A.J. It’s nice to meet you.”
He had a voice that spilled out of his mouth like honey. She knew exactly why he was getting appreciative glances from the waitresses. He was almost too attractive. He had classic good looks with a mix of ruggedness which made it clear that he was no innocent poster boy, but rather a force to be reckoned with.
“It’s very nice to meet you too. This is a nice restaurant. Do you come here often?” She was trying making small talk, and he knew she was nervous. He could tell by the way she sipped her water uncontrollably.
“No, I’ve only been here a handful of times, but it’s very good, trust me.” He gave her a dashing smile and Sierra knew in his simple off-handed comment that he was going to irritate her.
It wasn’t his looks. The truth of the matter was that he was the most intensely gorgeous man she ever saw. That alone gave him some kind of arrogance that reached out of him. He was put together like a package. Every piece of him from head to toe was perfect. Part of her wanted to ruffle his hair and put him in sweats. He almost seemed too well put together. He was gorgeous, but his cookie cutter life made him unattractive to her, not to mention that he was far too sure of himself. She again sipped at her water as he watched her. It was almost unnerving.
“Do I have something on my face? You seem to either be lost in thought or overly concerned with what I'm doing.” She said it simply and with a smile, and enjoyed the puzzled look that crossed his face.
“No, on the contrary. I was just looking at you, Katie.” He delivered his words smoothly, and she had to stop her heart from racing. He gave her a smile and she felt her stomach lurch. She was as bad as the hostess. She rolled her eyes and glanced at the menu. With any luck, this would be over soon anyway.
He leaned back into the booth, watching her intently. She was so beautiful, it was almost painful. He enjoyed the banter they were having because she wasn’t like most women. She had no idea how beautiful she was and that intrigued him even more. Usually the women he went out with were all superficial and very much aware of their beauty. They ordered their food and managed to make some small talk about nothing. He knew she was nervous and that gave him some sort of excitement. She moved without thought and enjoyed her food without counting calories. The entire scene was refreshing for him. She made an idle joke about the waiter, which he found amusing and they laughed about it.
“The decorating in here reminds me of a painting. I think art is beautiful.” She gave him a half smile, less concerned about his good looks now that she was three glasses of wine into the date.
“Really? Maybe we should go to the art show that’s traveling into town next week. I can get tickets fairly easy, actually.” He gave her a smile and she felt the warm heat travel up from the pit of her stomach. He certainly had a way with words, and with women. She saw more than one lady go by to use the restroom and his eager attempts to greet each and every one of them. Playboy all the way.
He wasn’t sure why he even asked her to the art show. She was definitely not his type, and not an easy conquest either. Perhaps it was the challenge that made him want her more. He gave her every look and effort that he possibly could, and she brushed him off at every turn. Maybe he wasn’t her type, but whatever it was made him want her even more. Even now, as she hummed along to the ambient music in the restaurant, he wanted to kiss her full pouting mouth. He felt his pants tighten and he knew she would be his before they were through. Soon, dinner was over and they made their way outside. He walked her to her car and waited for her to look up at him.
“Well, I guess I'm gonna go." She gave a hiccup and a giggle, and he knew she wasn’t going anywhere. He walked her over to the area where his driver was and after a moment of tapping on the roof, he safely tucked her into his car.
“Sorry, sweetheart, but you’re not driving anywhere.” He let his hand linger for a moment on her waist.
She was full of fire. “You can’t kidnap me A.J. No way, Jose.” She fell into a fit of giggles, then and he couldn’t help but smile at her.
He felt the tension rise even more than before. As he clicked her in the seat belt, he was able to follow the line of her clinging dress up her hips and ending with a set of full breasts straining against the soft fabric, begging to be released. She looked up at him and he smiled at her. He wanted her. He knew it the second she looked up at him. There was something different and refreshing about her. Her hand trembled just slightly and he felt the heat rush through him. He let her go, watching as she straightened her clothes and looked at him.
Her heart was beating faster than usual and she wasn’t sure why. He held her hand for just a second longer than necessary when he helped her in the car. He made his way around and slid into the seat beside her.
He looked up at her and leaned over closer. “I’m taking you home, you obviously cannot drive.”
She felt a tremor go through her body as she felt his hot breath on her ear. He owned a really flashy car with a driver, it was one good sign, but even still, she was leery of getting into a car with someone she just met. The reality was, she didn’t have much choice in the matter. She couldn’t walk, let alone drive.
She gave him directions and soon enough they were at her apartment. He guided her up the stairs and soon she was inside. She felt her body come to life as he walked her inside. She watched him slide his eyes over the bed and then back to her.
“I hope you will be more careful Katie, perhaps not drink as much?” He reached out and took her hand in his.
His touch was sending little balls of fire through her veins and she knew this was dangerous ground. She felt his fingers moving along her wrist and he leaned towards her closer and closer still until she heard the front door open. Reality came crashing back in and she turned red as she glanced up at him. He stood slowly and moved towards her.
“Hey Sierra, I can’t even begin to tell you how much stuff costs at the store now, I mean it’s ridiculous.” She stopped short at Sierra’s door noticing the man inside. Sierra struggled to sit up some.
The blonde was much closer to his typical tastes. She had come bounding in full of sassiness.
Sierra gave her a look and Katie smiled. “So who is this?” She extended her perfectly manicured hand towards A.J. and he eagerly held it to his lips.
Sierra felt her face flaming as she explained the story, and how they came to end up here, now.
“Wait a second who is Sierra?” He gave them both a confused look.
“Me, I am… it’s actually my middle name.” Sierra gave Katie a sour look but he seemed to buy it.
“My name is Alayna, it is nice to meet you.” She stifled a smile at Sierra. Alayna was actually Sierra’s middle name. This was getting more complicated by the moment.
There was a moment of silence that passed between them before he took a step towards Sierra. He watched her for a moment as she struggled to stand, somehow trying to put herself together. She gave Katie an apologetic look.
“Well, I have to go back out, Katie, I’m glad your home safe, and A.J. thank you taking such good care of her. You two have a good evening.” She winked at an angry Sierra before leaving the apartment.
He gave Alayna a wave and once she was gone, he turned to look at her. She wasn’t sure what to do or feel. The alcohol in her system was more than she should have taken in and it had impaired her judgement. It didn’t matter what she wanted really as he made his way over to her and leaned in close before his mouth made its descent on hers. He pulled her towards him and explored her mouth at length. He was radiating heat and she met his kiss with equal intensity. They moved together with him pushing her back into the couch and holding her arms above her head with one arm. He ran his hands under the hem of her dress and up along her thigh, she wanted him to touch her, but yet she didn’t. He found the laced edge of her panties and she froze, finally coming to her senses. She was anticipating his touch when her phone rang, shattering the moment. What the hell, she inwardly cursed herself?
He stood now, facing her and looking down at her. He wasn’t upset, but merely amused. He wanted her, eventually, but never like this. He stood once more and made his way to the door. Leaving her with an aching need she felt deep down and nothing to cure it. She glanced down at her clothes and straightened them quickly. What was wrong with her anyway? She always had control over her actions, but today she most definitely was not in control. What he must think of her, meeting him on a blind date and then within an hour letting him touch her like that.
“I’ll pick you up next Friday at 8pm Katie, be ready, I can be impatient.” He rebuttoned his jacket and smoothed his hair before dropping a quick peck on her forehead and leaving her stunned.
“What was he even talking about anyway?” she whispered to herself once he had left.
She hung her head in her hands and sighed. She had very strict rules about sex, and dating and right now she was breaking every one of them. She allowed herself a moment to try and recover, but she had been changed for good. Whatever she did, she would need to stay away from A.J.
The next week passed by and she did her best to stay calm and not think about him. Katie was making it nearly impossible with her line of questioning that seemed endless.
“Oh wow so you kissed him, that’s it? Honey, he is gorgeous, I should have totally went on that date.” She laughed at her own joke but seemingly aware of Sierra's unhappiness.
“Yes, and it was stupid because he is an ass, totally shallow and he thinks he is some gift put here for women to look at.” She rolled her eyes. “Not to mention, he kissed that night's version of me, not the real me.” She threw her bag into the window of the car.
“Maybe he is a playboy, and shallow and whatever, but the truth of the matter is he liked you Sierra, and when was the last time you went out and had any fun anyway? It’s good for you, go enjoy it.” She made her way to her car. “Byeee.” She gave a wave.
“Whatever, be quiet Katie.” She said it with a laugh as she settled into her car. It was then she noticed the note that was under the wiper. She moved to retrieve it.
That was only the beginning, I want you
She felt her body come to life with the excitement of the words. He certainly had no problem sharing what he wanted, but she had decided to not let it go any further than it already had. She had very strict guidelines about how she lived her life. She had been reckless and let the fantasy take over yesterday. It had been the make-up, the dress and the stupid wine. Nothing more. She wouldn’t let it happen a second time. She needed to focus on the important things in life like her family, and taking care of herself. She made her way towards the town where she had grown up. She was off this morning and was going to see her little brother off to his first day of school. She loved the small town charm that made up the community where she used to live. It was hard to imagine that just two towns over the city was overfilled with people and congestion. It was good to sometimes come home and put things into perspective. She only hoped to not run into A.J., ever. He had wanted that woman from dinner, not the one getting ready to visit her family in a sundress and flip flops. The fantasy was something she couldn’t give him, or anyone for that matter. All she had to do was get refocused.
She saw her little brother in the front yard with their father and she got out of the car just in time to hop into the SUV that would take the four of them to the school. He was excited, and scared, she could tell by the way he was fidgety but not talking much. Having a child after so many years since Sierra had been a struggle for her parents, but they loved Jacob more than anything in the world. He had been a miracle child for them really, and completely unexpected. She had been 16 when he was born and the shock had just subsided about having a new toddler running around when he was getting ready to go to school. Even harder was the fact that her brother needed medication for his condition. When he was five he had been diagnosed with myeloid leukemia. The medication alone had cost her father their savings. She knew she needed to do something to help, but she wasn’t sure what. She looked down at her brother and put her hand on his knee and he moved his to hers smiling, then after a second she tapped his nose and he would tap hers back. Finally, she stuck out her tongue and he followed suit. He relaxed as she tickled him in the back seat.
The brick building was spread out ranch style and had two wings. It was a beautiful undertaking and after years it was finally ready. She walked hand in hand with Jacob, her father ahead of them. He really was a good boy. They watched as the announcer made a speech about the importance of family. It was then that she froze. She heard his voice before she even looked down towards the podium. He was dressed impeccably as he had been yesterday. He was far away enough that he did see her but she watched him as he shared the importance of meeting educational goals. That was where she had recognized his name. Trager Enterprises was the largest business in the area and often would give money to local causes. It was his money that made this building possible. The old school had been falling apart and now, apparently with his help, they had a new one, one that had a special wing for children with illness like Jacob. She felt her heart soften a little towards him. This knowledge would only make it that much harder to stay away from him.
She walked with Jacob and her father to his class. She felt the sense of loss once he was inside for them both. She only wished her mother could have been there to see him go inside. Just two years ago, she was killed in a tragic car accident that left her and her father with Jacob. They did the best they could and now he was getting older. Her father headed back to the car and she waited a few seconds longer wanting to remember this moment for her mother. She turned to leave and there he was, leaning against the wall watching her again.
“Hello Katie.” He enunciated her name strangely and gave her a stormy look.
“Mr. Trager hello… again. My brother is a student here now. This is a great thing you did.” She knew she was rambling and gave him one final look. “It was nice to see you again.” As she walked by him, he grabbed her arm pulling her towards him.
He kissed her lightly and let her go, it was almost a tease, but enough to remind her that he was in control. She started walking as soon as she was free and she tried to calm her racing heart as she did it. She saw his dark smile as he turned to leave. He was the most arrogant person she had ever met that she knew. She touched her fingertips to her lips still tingling from his latest onslaught. How was it he managed to show up places when she was there?
She headed to lunch with her father before heading back into town. They had just sat down when suddenly he was there. She almost choked on her water.
“Sierra, Mr. Trager is having lunch with us. It seems we he knows you and in mentioning lunch I asked him to join us.” She smiled weakly and looked up to catch his eye. It was as if he were looking right through her.
“How nice.” It was all she could manage to squeak out.
“Sierra, are you okay, you looked pale.” Her father seemed genuinely concerned.
“Yes, you look as though something shocked you or something of that nature.” He interjected with the same smile that drove her crazy.
“I’m fine, just some pesky bugs in the hall before that’s all.” She saw his smile again but he said nothing.
Lunch was an interesting time. He spoke and laughed with her father as if there was nothing underlying between them. He asked her to show him the gardens at the café and at her father’s insistence she did.
“You look beautiful today Miss Ford.” He glanced over at her as they walked.
“Thank you Mr. Trager.” She refused to look at him.
“So, when were you going to tell me that you are not Katie?” He never broke stride.
“How did you find out?” She crossed her arms over the front of her dress as they walked.
“Does that really matter? The reality is you lied, I don’t do well with liars.” He said it stiffly. She felt the anger start to rise deep down.
“Oh really, well, it’s a good thing it was only one date.” She flashed her eyes at him and saw him do his best to hide a smile.
“Have I mentioned how badly I want you?” she tripped lightly and he caught her arm.
“Really? Why would you say something like that to me?” She stopped to look at him.
“It’s simply the truth, if I want something I find it much easier to get if I simply make it clear.” He took a step towards her and she started walking again as he chuckled.
“You’re safe for now, Miss Ford. One day soon I won’t keep that promise.” She glanced at him, but he continued to look at the pond beside them.
“Your almost a different person today Sierra, more free and happy perhaps.”
“I am in my own clothes, and I’m at home. I supposed I am free that way.” He stopped her and looked down into her face.
“I like you better this way.” There was a long moment between them and she broke free and made her way up the path. He chuckled.
“Tell me about your brother.”
There was something in the way he said it that made her feel close to him. He seemed genuinely interested and she shared her story with him. Her brother had been diagnosed with a form of leukemia. He listened and interjected when necessary. He was almost a different person in this environment. She found him easy to talk to and strangely, she felt safe with him. He spoke about some of the new directions the company was going in and she listened, interested in the way business is managed. She gave him some input and he arched an eyebrow at her point of view. She was happy she had at least shown more to her character than the way she behaved around him before. Right before they made their way back to the café he stopped and pushed her into the overhang kissing her again, quickly but deep and hard. He stopped and pulled away slightly before he backed away completely. They made their way back to the table where her father sat and Trager jumped right back into the conversation as if it were nothing. They parted ways and she rode back with her father to get her car.
“That Mr. Trager is a nice guy, Sierra.” She looked over and he gave her a wink.
“He is an ass dad, plain and simple.” She crossed her arms in the car and he smiled at her but didn’t say another word.
She missed home when she wasn’t there, but she loved the city more. She said her goodbyes to her father and headed back to the apartment. She pulled her car into the lot adjacent to her apartment building and her phone started ringing. She assumed it was A.J. and ignored it since her hands were full. The second time it went off after she had been inside for a few minutes she checked it. It was work, with a sigh, she called Harry back at the diner.
“Sure Harry, I’ll be there just as soon as I can ok?” With a sigh she pulled her hair back into a bun and threw on her uniform. Hopefully since it was a Friday she would make decent tips.
The night seemed to drag on as she made her usual rounds. Despite her effort to not think about him, he was there and present in her mind. Maybe Katie was right, maybe she needed to get out more, and have fun. Things had been a mess since Jake and she couldn’t seem to move past it. There was some level of trust she couldn’t seem to give too freely to anyone. She was tired and she was unhappy. Sure, she had great friends, but she was living paycheck to paycheck and she needed to get things together. Her classes here and there were certainly not helping to propel her career in any way. She had big plans once upon a time and now she was just surviving. She felt someone touch her apron and glanced back to see another staggering drunk trying to touch her rear. She pulled the apron away and made her way to the counter. She let her head hang in her hands for a second refusing to give in to the stress, she was only 26 she still had time to get it together. Finally, the night came to a close and she headed home lost in deep thought about her future.
The next morning was there too quickly and she rolled over with a sigh. Today would be busy. The only day the she could actually clean the apartment and get it together. They both worked and went to school all week and rarely got anything done. She knew that Katie was still sleeping. She shuffled her way to the kitchen lost in thought once more about her brother. His prognosis, if medicated was good, but she worried about him. She looked around and jumped in full force. She would be lying if she said she didn’t think about him. It was strange, someone making her feel things now. She had assumed that was all behind her. She wanted desperately to be like Katie. To find love and happiness, but none of it was for her. She needed to focus on what was important.
A.J. was having a similar morning. He was killing himself waiting to find a woman. Usually he could go out and find any number of them to bring home, but now he was stuck. He told himself it had nothing to do with her, but he wasn’t so sure. Ever since their kiss at the school opening he couldn’t get her out of his head. This was the first day in a long time he woke up unsatisfied from the night before. He always had someone, but she had robbed him of it. He was completely focused on winning her over. He wanted her even now, in his bed. He gritted his teeth and made his way to the shower. Sometimes it helped, sometimes not. Soon, however, she would be his even if only for one night.
The rest of the morning flew by and Sierra looked around enjoying her clean apartment. There was a sense of pride in that and she liked order. She never would be considered spontaneous on any level. She slumped down in the chair and threw the rag in she had in the waiting basket. Soon Katie would be gone, moving for her new job, and she would either have to find a way to make the payments on this place herself, or move home. She liked the simplicity of the apartment, but she was doubtful there was any way she could make it on her own. For now she would enjoy it.
He knew she would be mad. Furious more likely. She wanted him as much as he wanted her, but she was determined to fight him. She was always leery of him, part of him liked it that way, and he enjoyed the banter they seemed to find themselves in every time they spoke. She was smart and quick, he knew that by talking to her, but something kept her from giving in to him and he wanted to know what it was. He wanted her and he rarely was ever turned down. She was fighting him and the chase had begun. When she was here, which he was sure would be within the hour, he had every intention of claiming her body once and for all. The morning seemed to go on forever as he anticipated the way she would feel beneath him. He wanted to control her every move and the thought flooded him with fire. Soon, he thought to himself, soon.
He heard the first stirrings of activity in the lobby. He smiled and leaned back in his chair waiting and anticipating how she would look when she was angry. He spun around as his assistant opened his door.
Mr. Trager someone, a young lady is here to see you. “She glanced behind her quickly. “She said you were expecting her.”
“I am, please let her in.” He sat up and made every effort to look busy as she stormed into the room.
As soon as he heard the click of the door, he looked up at her and it hit him like a punch to the gut. She was more beautiful at this very moment than she had been yet. Her hair was a swirling mass of reds and browns and flowed down her back freely. He could almost feel his fingers itch to run through it. Her arms were crossed and her body was fitted into a dress that hugged her every curve and angle.
“What the hell were you thinking towing my car?” She continued to tap her foot as she waved a sheet of paper at him. “I had to take a cab to get here and even that took forever. I can’t afford to take a cab all the way across town, Trager.” She huffed and exhaled slowly and he noticed the pink hue of her cheeks,
“I’m sorry Sierra, I wanted you to come see me, and I knew this was one way to make it happen.” He leaned back and smiled.
“You are so smug sometimes, A.J., you just assume the world is here to give you whatever you want aren’t you?” She was practically yelling and he wanted to somehow bottle up all the fire she carried and make love to her for hours.
“Sometimes, yes. I like getting what I want and right now I want you.” He said it simply enough, but there was much more to the statement.
“You don’t even know me, Trager.” She sighed.
It was the truth and it had never been clearer to her than right now. He had no idea of what was on her plate, or in her world for that matter. She was already stretched too thin and it wouldn’t take much to push her over the edge. Her Monday started out badly, her car was towed, and she’d spent hours on the phone looking for various agencies to help fund Jacobs’s medication. Money was running out and she needed a solution fast. Her father called her to discuss the house and he decided to take out a loan against it. It was the only thing of value he had left that he’d shared with her mother. With the growing figures for Jacobs’s medication, it was clear he had no choice. Then after going outside and seeing that her car was missing, she stomped off in search for it, only to find it had been a ruse to get her here.
“I want you in my arms Sierra. I have wanted to touch you since that night when I watched you walk into the restaurant.”
“I don’t know how you do it, Trager, but for me, I am not interested in becoming some notch on your headboard.”
“I don’t have a headboard, Sierra, but you will see soon enough.” His arrogance was stifling, but she couldn’t stop the warmth that spread through her body. “I know you want the very same thing from me but you won’t let yourself go. I am not asking for marriage or family, I just want you, plain and simple.”
He was almost too much to look at. He was impeccably dressed as always. He delivered his point clearly and effectively and she knew what he said was true. She wasn’t too old yet to want to be touched by someone, and held by someone. The obvious problem was that she wasn’t that type of girl.
“Shut the door, Sierra.” She did as he told her, and as she started to walk towards him, he added “lock it.”
With a gulp she did as she was told. There was an underlying current in the air and she could tell he was playing with her, like a cat and mouse game. She wouldn’t be bossed around by his arrogance and she wanted him to know it. The entire situation was out of hand and she let it go too far that day in her apartment. She took responsibility for drinking the wine that got her into this mess.
“Mr. Trager, I think I need to apologize. I think I may have given you the wrong impression about me. I am not the kind of girl who just lets strange men touch her... well you know what I mean. I can’t let this… attraction between us continue.” She fumbled the words out. “To say that my life is complicated right now would be a very sincere understatement.”
They sounded less harsh than she intended, but she finally got them out. He turned slowly towards her and he had a sinister look about him. He wasn’t frowning, or smiling, but it was as if he was stuck between both. He moved towards her like a cat chasing its prey and she backed up against his desk as he moved over her. He was slow at first. He simply ran his finger across her neck relishing at her quick intake of breath. He looked at her as he traced his finger across her chest and across the tops of her breasts. She couldn’t breathe, it was if she had never said a word. He kissed the tops of each mound lightly before he undid her hair, letting it cascade around her like a fiery blanket. He put his hands in it and pulled her hard against him, crushing his mouth to hers. She was lost. The feel of his mouth, grinding into hers was a welcome one. She tried to put up a defense against him and failed. He turned her around and she felt him lean into her as he whispered into her ear.
“Sierra, I have been very clear about the fact that I want you. I want you to know that before anything else happens. I want you to know without any doubt that it’s going to happen.” She gasped as he pushed against her and she could feel the length of him against her.
“You have to let go, let yourself feel all of the things I want to show you.” He kissed her mouth lightly. “If you want to say no I will, but understand if you do, I may not try again.”
She nodded yes to him as the rest of her defense slipped away. He was very matter-of-fact about things and she loved it. She felt him unzip her dress and trail his fingers down her spine as the dress slipped to the floor. She was aware of every nerve ending in her body as his hands reached around and touched her.
“Don’t move.” It was all he told her before he began his descent.
Even in slow motion Sierra couldn’t stop the kiss, she welcomed it more than she should have and she shivered as she felt his other hand under the other side of her head. He raised back only once searching her face and seeing no resistance, he kissed her once more. This time deeper, longer and more demanding. She felt him cup the back of her head to tilt her towards him as the kiss intensified.
She didn’t want to fight anymore, couldn’t fight anymore. She stood and with one zip she let her dress drop to the floor leaving him speechless. She made her way over to him and he felt her tentatively put her mouth on his. This kind of forwardness was completely out of her comfort zone and he knew it.
“How long has it been Sierra?” Her eyes flew open to look at him.
“Four years.” She whispered it to him and it almost pushed him over the edge.
She let him love her in a way she had never known. Most of it was undoubtedly because of his experience as a lover. There was a sense of panic she’d felt when he told her there may not be another chance. She wanted to feel good, feel better. Her life was a mix of stress and planning and all she wanted was to feel something else. His skin on hers was like fire and ice and she let go, of her fears, of her stress of everything and he loved her completely. She met his every move and every action and she knew she was giving him as much as he gave her.
A.J. was moved by what had happened between them. He had certainly been with many women, but nothing had ever been as moving as what they had shared. She had always been distant and scared and yet something switched and she gave instead herself to him with everything in her power. She wasn’t shy or meek, she was eager and demanding and he enjoyed pushing her to her limits. Yet, as good as it was, she was holding back something he couldn’t quite put his finger on. She lay cupped in front of him and he could sense she was exhausted and simply didn’t want to move. It wasn’t usually his style, cuddling, but for her he would make an exception. There was a sense of sadness about her he wanted to fix, despite the warning bells in his head. He traced his finger up and down the length of her arm as she dozed slightly. No, this wasn’t his usual situation on any level at all. It happened almost simultaneously, the two of them remembering where they were. Sierra jumped up to start gathering her clothes. To be honest, the fact that they were in his office was mortifying and she was blushing the entire time. Along the way that fact had slipped her mind, until now.
“Sierra… Sierra calm down it's fine.” He smiled at her as she continued to slip back into her clothes and he was able to be a bystander and admire the curve of her hip and the softness of her skin as the light hit it.
“No A.J. it’s not alright. This is not me, I mean not really me.” She was frantic in her actions and after he redressed, he stilled her arms and helped her to breath. He sensed a panic in her, something deep down.
“Do you want to talk about it Sierra?” he brushed her hair back from her face as he cupped her chin lovingly.
“No, no I’m fine, I’m sorry. I have to go.” She gave him one last look and headed out of the office in a hurry. Something was wrong and he wanted to know what it was.
She took the few strides to reach her building and once inside her room, she collapsed against the door. What was she thinking? No matter what she did, she somehow managed to make the situation worse. She shook her head to clear her thoughts of him and what had happened, and called home. Her father answered and they took some time to discuss the home loan further. He sounded tired and she worried about him. She also spoke with Jacob about school. He was excited about the teacher and his class. She missed his little face all the time. She listened to her father and told him about work and Katie, she failed to mention Trager. They chatted for a while discussing the options she had once Katie was gone. Her last day at work was yesterday and she would be another week packing and getting things ready before leaving. Finally, they hung up and she carefully stood to walk into the kitchen. She blushed, remembering. Even now, she was sore from what he put her through. She had to remind herself that it could never happen again. She took a drink of water and settled into the armchair in the living room. Katie had been gone for hours, having met a friend in town. For the next few hours she had the place to herself and she planned to use them wisely. She started running a bath, touching the hot water with her fingertips. She was soaking for ten minutes before she heard a loud thump on the front door. She sat up quickly and wrapped herself in a robe. She felt her heart beating fast as she made her way to the front door. She checked the eye hole and saw no one. She froze when she saw the shadow of someone in the hall.
She opened the door to look. He stood back looking at her.
“Sierra, hey look don’t shut the door.” He rushed towards her block it with his arm.
She folded her arms. “What do you want Brandon, why are you here and
Furthermore, how did you know I was here?” He pushed the door slightly and came inside.
She took a step back, this was part of the problem between them. He scared her. With A.J., she knew he wouldn’t hurt her. With Brandon, it made her worry, about her safety.
He reached out to her. “Sierra, I miss you so much, if you would just let me show you.” He took a step towards her and she moved out of his reach, grabbing the vase on the table and moving away.
“Brandon, please. You know it’s done with us you can’t do this. I need you to go.” She moved towards the door and he grabbed her arm. She knew there would be bruises tomorrow. It was then that the front door opened and Katie came through it, followed by someone she had never met.
It was obvious they had walked into something dicey and the man with Katie spoke up first. “Is there a problem here?”
Katie made her way over to Sierra hugging her as she walked her towards the kitchen.
“No man, not a thing, I was just going. Sierra, I’ll be back.” Brandon said as he left and he shut the door.
Sierra was visibly shaken, she had never expected him to follow her here. She had thought to leave him behind and start over.
“Thanks, I appreciate the help.” She glanced over at Katie.
“Sierra this is Marcus, a good friend of mine.” She gave Marcus a huge smile and Sierra shook his hand.
“No wonder you sent me on that crazy date.” She gave them both a half smile, still reeling from Brandon’s visit. “Really though, thanks for your help. She excused herself to go think.
She made her way to her room. She had no choice, she would have to go home now, and at least with her father around, she felt safe. She supposed she could call the police, but she wasn’t sure much would come of it. Instead, she focused on her assignment for the class she was taking online. Monday, she would give a notice at the diner.
Brandon didn’t bother her anymore the rest of the week. Two of her tires were slashed on Friday morning and she was beginning to wonder if it was Brandon all along. She had Katie drop her off at the diner. She would normally be happy and carefree, but now she was depressed and wasn’t sure how to get out of the way she felt. More than that, she was scared and worried about where she was headed. The day went by quickly and she made her way home on the bus, hoping to just get there safely. She jumped when her phone rang and she checked the number and relaxed. It wasn’t Brandon.
“Hello A.J., how are you?”
“I’m doing well, I was hoping maybe we could talk, before our date tonight.”
She frowned, thinking, she had not only forgotten about the date, some part of her assumed he had been joking anyway. Given the last time they had seen each other she almost figured she wouldn’t hear from him again.
“About that A.J., I’m not sure if I can. Some things have come up I need to take care of. Besides, I don’t have a car.”
“Even better, I’ll send you one, are you at home?”
“Yes, but...”
“Give me thirty minutes.” He cut her off mid-sentence and then hung up abruptly.
The truth of the matter was that she wasn’t sure if she could handle seeing him right now. With the possibility of Brandon lurking about, she was consumed with worry. A.J. probably never had these kinds of issues. On top of her own problems, she was concerned about her father and Jacob. Based on her calculations, even with taking out a loan on the house, he would need more money down the road. What would they do then? She considered A.J., not for the first time either. If she could somehow get him to fall for her then she would have the financial freedom to help Jacob, but it was completely out of character for her to do something like that. Even still, the idea burned in the back of her mind. She couldn’t admit to herself even now, that she may want to get him to fall for her because she just wanted to be with him, it was ridiculous to even think it. He was a known playboy and he would never settle for her no matter what she wanted, on the surface or deep down.
True to his word a car arrived to pick her up. She made the attempt to put on something nice. She had on a black dress and heels and her hair was spun up on top of her head. She applied her make–up, much as Katie had done before, but just not as much. She sat back to see how she looked and once again the person staring back was a stranger. She would at least try to test the waters, to see if he felt anything for her. They had only known each other a short time, but there was something there and they both knew it. She watched the buildings fly by, lost in her own thoughts. Nothing made sense anymore. A.J. Trager had her head spinning and it wouldn’t allow for her to focus on what was important. She would test the waters, so to speak, to see what he said and felt about her. She had zero powers of seduction up her sleeve, but she would try, for Jacob. The car pulled up to his building and she made her way inside and up to his floor. Since he towed her car, she knew exactly where to find him now, he had been nice enough to send her money back to her for the car and the tow with a courier, but it was still about the principle. She smiled at his assistant, a blonde who was gorgeous, and couldn’t help but wonder if he slept with her too.
She heard his voice welcome her in and she took a deep breath and went inside. He looked up from the papers on his desk and sat back in his chair. He was all business-like and the air that surrounded him seemed to come to life. She glanced at the desk and gulped. Just a few days ago, she was laid out in that very spot. She felt the redness rush to her cheeks.
A.J. looked her over. He usually had a firm handle on his behavior, but he struggled with not finding her since she had last been here. Not even 30 minutes after she left during her last visit, he felt himself wanting her again. She was under his skin and he was trying to figure out how to handle it. Something was very different today, she was as pale as a ghost and almost lifeless despite her efforts to seem calm and carefree. He tried to push down the need to fix whatever was bothering her. Instead he stood and walked towards her.
She saw him coming and despite her fears she felt the fire almost immediately. He made her come to life and feel safe all at the same time. He stopped and leaned back on the desk.
“Come here, Sierra.” She obeyed him. He lifted his hand up to her pale face and traced the line of her jaw with his forefinger. “Did you think about me about what we did?” She nodded her head yes and her eyes met his. He frowned because she was not completely here with him, not now.
“What’s wrong Sierra?”
“Nothing, why do you ask.” She gave him a warm smile and reached up to run her fingers over his sports coat.
He frowned. She was doing her best to appear seductive, but her actions didn’t match her appearance. There was something going on but she was hiding it from him, toying with him. There was a loud bang from the outer office and she practically jumped into his arms. She buried her head in his chest and instinctively he wrapped his arms around her.
His door opened to reveal his assistant. “Sorry about the commotion, Mr. Trager. The Adams kids were here and they decided to play a prank on Dad. They have since left and Mr. Adams apologized for their behavior.” She gave him a quick glance and took in the scene of him holding that nice girl whose car he had towed.
“Thank you for letting us know.” He gave her a smile and once the door was shut, he addressed the woman who was wrapped around him.
“Okay, Sierra, what’s going on, what’s wrong?” She pulled away from him.
“Nothing is wrong, A.J... I just had a rough night and I apologize for my behavior. I didn’t mean to embarrass you like that.” She sniffed and he frowned at her.
“No, I’m not letting this go Sierra, I want to know why you are trembling like that, and now!” He was demanding and loud and she worried someone would hear them outside of the doors.
“I may as well tell you, there has been a situation that has come up and I will be moving in a week or so. I guess I’m just nervous or stressed, that’s all.” She trembled slightly as he took her hand in his and turned it over, lightly tracing the palm with his thumb.
He pulled her to him and she welcomed the arms that wrapped around her, holding her. She knew then she could never seduce him. Hell, she wasn’t even able to have a conversation with him without falling apart. She felt his hands rubbing her back and she closed her eyes, enjoying the way his hands felt. He moved them now, running them down the length of her and she trembled now, not from fear, but of what she knew his hands would do to her if she didn’t stop them now. She tried to pull away from him, but he held her there and she looked up at him.
“Didn’t you like what I did the other day to you, Sierra?” He pulled her arm up and nibbled his way up the underside of her forearm. “Answer me, Sierra.”
“Yes.” She whispered the words as her body reacted to him. She had all the strength in the world when he wasn’t in front of her. When he was she was lost to him.
“Is your family in trouble?” He continued up her arm having moved around to the top of her shoulder now.
“No, well yes, but no.” She frowned, unsure how to answer him.
“Then you can’t leave me, I’m not done with you yet.” He pulled her face to his and kissed her roughly, needing to feel the softness of her full red lips beneath his.
She knew she had no choice, she had to go, but right now she was here, with him… safe. He pulled back and without thought she pulled his head back down to hers. Without warning, he stopped and backed away from her. She trembled, watching his face and took a step back.
“I have to touch you Sierra, do you understand? I have thought of nothing else.” He moved back towards her and pulled her towards him by the arm. She whimpered and he let her go. He may be passionate, but he would never hurt her. He gently pulled the arm out of the sleeve she was wearing, despite her protests and looked at the black and purple bruise forming on her arm. He felt the rage well up inside him and knew he wanted someone to hurt for this.
“Who did this to you, Sierra?” She looked at the floor and shoved her arm back in her sleeve to go. He grabbed her chin, forcing her to look at him. “Who?”
She knew he wouldn’t give in until she answered him. “He is an ex, I moved because of him and he found me.” She watched the play of emotions on his face as he stood. “Don’t move Sierra, I mean it.” He walked over to the window and she stood rooted to the spot. He was on the phone talking to someone and when he was through he made his way back over to her.
“My driver is on his way here, you are to let him take you to my place where I know you will be safe and wait for me until later.”
“Mr. Trager, that’s not necessary, this is not your problem, it's mine.” She stood to go, but felt him move between her and the door.
“Sierra, I am not arguing with you about this? Where is your car I’ll have it brought to your house.”
“You sent a car for me, remember? Someone slashed my tires.” She said it dryly and he swore under his breath. There was a knock on the door and he simply said “Open.”
He spoke to his driver for a moment before he walked over to her. He was almost gentle in the way he led her to the door. “I will see you there later.” He stopped and turned her around to face him. “Tell me you will be there Sierra, I don’t have time to worry about you all afternoon.”
She knew he was serious and she would do as she asked. “Yes, I’ll be there A.J...” As the driver left the room, he pulled her into a kiss. “I’ll be there soon.”
“Where am I going, A.J.?” she asked it simply but he knew she needed to feel safe.
“To my place, you will be safe there.” At her hesitation he added. “Just do this… for me.” She looked up at him and knew he was sincere, she nodded her head yes. He kissed the top of her head as she left.
She made her way down the elevator and to the waiting car. She planned to seduce him, to help her family. Somewhere along the way she simply planned to tell him she was leaving. As usual, he took over the conversation and made the decisions for her. She visibly relaxed in the seat. She needed to feel safe for a little while anyway. She knew she would be gone in a few hours, but for right now she would be at his house, where her ex can’t find her.
Nothing prepared her for the penthouse where he lived. It was obvious to her that he had refined and elegant tastes in everything. From the marbled counters, to the floor to ceiling windows. She felt out of place here, like a dirty stray puppy or something. The driver, she found out on her way here, had been working for Trager for two years and was close to him. He led her to the main room where she could relax. Twenty minutes later he returned with a box in hand.
“What’s this?” She took the box and lifted the lid slightly. Once she saw the lace, she closed it immediately.
“Mr. Trager said to make sure you were fed and had something to wear. He also ordered food for dinner and it will be here before he arrives.
“You have full use of the house, Miss Ford.” He tipped his hat and left her. She spun around the room and set about exploring. She found a huge bedroom with a canopied bed, and adjacent to it was a marbled bathroom. To say it was elegant was an understatement. She filled the large oval bathtub and decided to slip in and try to enjoy it. She redressed in her work clothes. The “outfit” he gave her was a sexy lacy thing, barely there. It was a dark blue color and he tucked a note inside that read:
I will be there at 6, wear this… and your hair down.
She had to smile, he was so demanding and yet it suited him. She thought about the next steps for her and where she would go from here. It all came back to the same conclusion. She had no choice but to go home. She lifted her arms to brush out her hair with her fingers and winced in pain, once again reminded of Brandon, and his declaration that he would be back. She heard the door and felt the same fear creep in and then she remembered the food. She checked, and opened the door to a lovely young woman with an arm load of boxes. She put them all in the warming oven and looked at the clock. It was 5:45. She decided she would wear it, for him. He was sweet enough to let her come here to feel safe. It was the least she could do. She tried to deny it had anything to do with the fact that they would be alone in his house. She also had thrown the idea of seducing him out the window. For now, she just wanted to erase the past couple of days and feel something good. She changed her clothes and waited.
He came home quietly, barely a sound. Something that didn’t shock her. He moved into the room and dropped his things as he took long strides to get to the bedroom. He froze when he saw her there. Slowly he undid his tie and started undressing.
“Come here Sierra, help me.” She did as he asked, watching his face as she stripped him of his clothes. His skin was tight and smooth and she ran her hands over his chest lightly before he grabbed her hands in his. He pulled her behind him and made the short trip to his bedroom. As she had imagined, the room with the marbled bathroom was his. He stopped in front of the bed and let her go.
“Get on the bed… and then lay on your back.” He said it and moved to the other side of the room to finish removing his clothes.
When she was done, she felt her heart beating out of her chest. She was laying here like a sacrifice to him. She had a need to be that for him. Whatever made him this way, whatever drove him, she didn’t know. She only wanted to make him feel better, and in turn make herself feel better. He moved towards her and she lay still. She expected to see a sinister smile play across his face, but the one he had was a concerned one instead. He moved easily onto the bed, above her. Instead of ravishing her as she expected, he pulled her closer to him and held her. The action was a simple one, but necessary. She closed her eyes and felt her body relax in the warm strength of his arms. She needed this, the security of it. It wouldn’t be long before even this moment was a memory, and she wanted to enjoy it for as long as she could. They lay that way for a while, his hands slowly moving along her arms and hips. His movements were not sexual but more loving than anything.
He raised above her slightly to look at her. She was beautiful and she was laying in his bed, something that never happened. He always made a point of being with women someplace else, never here. She was special, he knew it from the beginning, but what he was feeling now was new for him.
“Do you want to talk about it Sierra?” He played with an auburn curl as he looked down at her. She reached up and put her hand on his cheek.
“No, I don’t want to talk, A.J. I just want to feel safe, and wanted.” Their eyes made contact and the mood shifted dramatically.
“Are you sure?” He took the time to make the extra effort before he touched her like that. He was fighting his instincts already, trying to be there and trying to make her feel safe. If she opened that door on her own, welcoming him in, it would take very little before he gave her everything once more.
“Yes, I’m sure… love me, A.J.”
He needed no further invitation and his mouth found her full and red lips eagerly. His actions were focused and specific, even he felt the trembling need building within. Her hair was spread across the pillow like a flame, and the lingerie he had sent fit her like a glove. He held his focus on her mouth, kissing her and feeding off of her lips until they were bruised. She touched him back, running her fingers down his back and in his hair as he kissed on her. He moved his hands down her shoulders and chest casually licking and nipping through the lace of her clothing. He nipped the skin on her belly, all the while his hands were freeing her upper body from the confinement of the outfit. He used his hands to cup and love on her until he made his way back up. It was almost painful when he would move the heat of his mouth off of her skin and move to another area. She reveled in the feel of him on her and the patterns his mouth made on her flesh... Her body was on fire. Her hands pulling his head up and back to her waiting mouth. He did as she asked and gave her a passionate kiss, drinking from her mouth. She wanted this, wanted him more now than ever. Only he could make her forget their pain and the worry of what life had in store for her. Only he could take her someplace else.
He made a leisurely trail down the rest of her body, leaving no area untouched by him. Suddenly stood back to look at her naked form splayed across the bed. She felt no shame in it, in this moment she belonged to him.
“You are mine, Sierra, do you understand that… only mine.” She nodded to him and he smiled at her before making a trail up her thighs with his mouth. Soon it was too much, the way he touched her, the way he loved her. She wanted to be in this moment for as long as possible
He moved above her and she felt the joining of their body’s like a tidal wave. He felt the heat of her envelop him and he stopped, waiting and feeling her. She was more than any women he had ever known and he knew he was forever changed. There was and urgency to hold her, to love her. He moved slowly, savoring every second of it, she was lost in it, just as he, he had thrown back and her eyes were glazed over from his lover. She looked at him now as he moved and he never broke stride once as he laid his chest against hers and kissed her deeply. She moaned loudly, driving him more and he his pace became quicker, more demanding. Both unwilling to let go of what they felt they had moved frantically exploring and enjoying the other. She was lost in a swirling of color and heat. She felt the familiar stirrings deep down and her eyes fluttered open and she looked at him.
Her reaction was stronger than any she’d ever had before. It ripped through her and she felt it shoot through even her fingers and toes. She yelled out his name as it happened and something about that pushed him over the edge as well. He grabbed her face and leaned down over her as he found release inside her. They lay that way for a long time, both feeling and thinking. Neither of them wanting to move. She drifted off to sleep at some point and knew she was safe.
He woke up before she did and stood looking at her. She was curled on her side, oblivious to the fact she was being watched. He was lost and confused at himself. Last night he had broken more than one of his own rules. He had never been so careless with anyone. She could be pregnant from what they had done. Thinking it brought up images of what their child would look like and the warm feeling spread through him and he swore inwardly to himself. What the hell was wrong with him? He knew before he even admitted it to himself, he wanted her, wanted to be with her. She was moving, but there was no way he would allow it now. She was in his bed, and in his heart. He was all over the place with her. One minute he wanted to protect her and the next, he wanted to scold her because she was so stubborn. He wasn’t sure what he would do now. He padded his way back into the living room and decided to start plating food. She would be up soon and they had to talk. This time not laying in a bed, or nothing would ever get discussed. He picked up her bag from the floor and when he did, he found a notepad with something scratched on it.
When finally she woke up, she knew he was gone. She moved to the shower and washed the lovemaking off of her from before. She felt him come in before he said a word. He waited, a hooded look to his eyes
“Why didn’t you tell me someone was trying to hurt you, Sierra?” He picked up the soap from the dish and lathered up the sponge she was holding. He started with her shoulders, making lazy circles as he washed her.
“Why would I tell you, A.J.?” she managed to get the words out despite the sensations he was creating with the sponge. He moved the sponge lower lathering her as he went.
“I told you that you belong to me, Sierra, and that means everything. If anyone tries to hurt you, that is my business too.”
She bit her lip to keep from giving him the satisfaction of knowing what he was doing to her again. When he was around, she lost all control of her body. He turned off the water and dried her off helping her get dressed in a shirt of his. She had to admit to herself she was left wanting more. They walked into the kitchen where the food was still warm and he played it for them all the while watching her. She looked at him, she had never seen him this way. He was wearing sweats and a t-shirt. Gone was the tailored suit and tie, even his hair was a ruffled mess, and she was lost.
“Sierra, hello.” He was waving his hand in front of her and she snapped back to the present.
Finally, he asked.
“This guy, is his name Brandon? Don’t lie to me.”
“Yes, but how did you know that A.J.?” she stopped eating and looked at him.
“I had someone look into the situation this afternoon after you left. They are coming by tonight with an update. I’d rather you know now, than to be upset later.” He took a long drink. “Then there is this.” He slapped the notepad from her bag on the table and she went pale.
“A.J. it’s not what you think.” She took a step backwards as he turned to look at her, anger apparent on his face.
“Really, it’s not?” he read from the list. “Get him to fall for me pros, Jacobs meds, great sex… thanks for that one by the way, not being scared.” He looked at her with her head down now. “Cons of getting him to fall for me. He is a playboy, great sex and the best one… incapable of love.” He threw the pad on the table in her direction.
“I write a lot about what's in my head, A.J. that’s all. I knew better and I wouldn’t even try….”
He cut her off “Really, you wouldn’t try? When you first came in the office tonight you were handsy then, were you not trying?” He was bitter and upset.
“Well, yes, but I knew it was wrong and I couldn’t… I’m not stupid, A.J., I knew better than to even consider it.” She grabbed the pad up from the table and walked over to face him. “Exactly what part are you mad about, A.J.? The fact that I said the sex was great or the fact that someone else considered turning your own games against you, which is it?” She spun around but he was there in an instant. He was inches away from her face and his eyes softened.
“You're right, everything on that list is right, so I guess you win. I brought you here to protect you, I’m not as horrible as you think.”
She was angry. “You have no right to get involved, A.J., he is misguided and yes, he scares me but this is not your problem to look into.” She stood quickly and made her way back to the bedroom they had shared only hours before. She looked around gathering her clothes, but her bag was gone. She was on her way back into the kitchen where he still sat eating and she stopped. He didn’t move, only continued to eat.
When she headed towards the door he finally spoke to her. “Sierra, don’t.”
He said it with such deep intent, it made her freeze in her tracks. He was there in an instant. He stood in front of her, between her and the door. He reached up and gently brushed her hair away from her face. She saw something different in his eyes then, something she couldn’t place. He reached up and cupped her face in his hand and kissed her gently. Suddenly there was a knock on the door. He stood back and opened it, letting in a man in a dark coat. He grabbed her hand in his and brought her with him to the bar where the man could share his findings.
“This man, Brandon Baker, he isn’t who he says he is. We checked your car and spoke with some people in the neighborhood and we are pretty sure he is the one who did it. That isn’t the real problem.”
Sierra felt the dread welling up inside her as he continued to speak. Whatever it was, it couldn’t be good.
“His description fits a suspect that is wanted in the disappearance of a woman in Montana. Apparently he was too overwhelming and suddenly she went missing. The guy they are looking for is Richard Carson, but I was able to track his entrance into town around the same time Mr. Randolph disappeared from Montana. I think it’s worth looking into.”
A.J. spoke first. “Thank you Darius. I'll be in touch, but I definitely want this handled, and quickly.”
Sierra was in shock, the tears streaming down her face. She dated Brandon for two years before he started to act this way, at any moment she could have been hurt. She had to get home where she was safe, where everyone was safe. She turned around and suddenly he was there. He pulled her into his arms and she let it all go, the tears and her heartache, for the time spent with someone who could hurt her. She pulled away and wiped her face.
“I have to go home, to my father's.” She headed back to the door.
“No, it’s not safe Sierra, stay here, with me.” He stood there and she glanced between the door and him. She wasn’t sure what to do.
“Then what, A.J., stay here until morning and then be scared to even go home to get my things?” She slumped down to the couch. She started to put on her shoes and he watched her helplessly.
She suddenly leaned forward and he knew she was crying. Instinctively he moved towards her, gathering her up in his arms. He knew she wouldn’t put up a fight and he carried her to his room and his bed. She silently let the tears go unchecked down her face. She didn’t want to fight the emotions anymore, she just needed to let it all go. She didn’t say a word as he undressed her and tucked her into the bed. He followed suit and spooned in behind her, pulling her into his arms. She rolled over and let him wrap her up, laying her head on his chest and cried until she was asleep. He looked down at her, gently stroking her hair and enjoying the heat of her body against this. There was a simple pleasure in this, something with no sexual bearing, he was in uncharted territory. He was losing himself with her, his focus had shifted to loving her, and protecting her. She was determined to run, but he wouldn’t let her, she just needed to realize what she felt back to him too. It would take some patience, but he would show her, he had too, or lose herself in the process.
Sierra was aware of everything around her. She had been lying there, thinking about what was to come for a long time. He was there, beside her. It felt like the most natural thing in the world to be here with him like this. She was in love with him, but he would never know it. He was a playboy and that would never change. She slid away from him slightly and in his sleep, he pulled her back to him. With a sigh, she let herself feel for a while longer. The next time she woke he was gone. She had planned to try and leave quietly, not disturbing him. It was no longer an option since he was in the kitchen. She threw on his shirt and walked quietly into the room and watched him. He was humming to himself and stirring something on the stove. He finally noticed her there and he froze.
Standing there, in his shirt and her hair a tangled mess she was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen. She was watching him with a half-smile and he could almost feel his heart beating out of his chest. He looked like an idiot standing there staring and he shook his head slightly to get it together.
“I see you're up, sleepyhead, coffee is ready and breakfast will be in a moment.” He turned back to what he was doing and she watched the muscles in his back flex as he worked. There was something sexy about a man cooking and she smiled despite the knowing fear in her stomach about the day to come.
“Thank you, I have to go soon, but I’ll stay and eat. It looks heavenly!” He delivered her eggs and bacon with pancakes and she sat back overwhelmed by the food on her plate.
“Sorry, I have a rather big appetite for breakfast food.” He shrugged and joined her at the bar.
They ate in silence, neither wanting to broach the topic at hand. They would smile from time to time, but it was a quiet affair. Once everything had been cleared, she couldn’t avoid it any longer.
“A.J., I can’t thank you enough, for everything you did for me last night.” She gave him a smile as she wound her mass of hair up into a bun.
He watched the woman he loved become the woman he was afraid of, all business and stern.
“Sierra, we need to talk. I don’t want you to move, especially with that guy still running loose. I don’t trust the situation.” He couldn’t say the words he was really feeling, not yet, it was still too new.
“It’s not just about that, A.J. There is much more to it. My father needs me.”
He stood. “I asked you if your family needed you, if they were in trouble.” He frowned at her.
“I know you did, and I just didn’t want to add to the situation, I’m sorry.” She slipped out of his shirt and changed back into her clothes. He took a steadying breath as he watched her naked form move and sway with her movements, this was damn near killing him.
He moved towards her and upped her chin in his hand. “Tell me Sierra, please talk to me.”
She looked at his expression and knew he was being sincere. With a sigh she settled back into the barstool. “My father is taking out a loan on the house today and I have to go sign paperwork with him. It’s a legal issue more than anything. When my mother died I was given executor over the estate because my father didn’t want to have any part of it, he was devastated when she died.”
“Why does he need to take out a loan on the house?” He frowned.
“It doesn’t matter why A.J., you asked what I had to do, and I told you.” Her eyes were flashing at him and he knew she was angry. As she went into the bathroom to fix her face, he took matters into his own hands, that’s how she found him when she came back out.
“Oh yes, I completely understand, yes, Mr. Ford. I’m happy to help, really, that won’t be necessary. Give him a hug from us. Okay, bye.”
She was standing there with her hands on her hips, fuming. When he hung up he knew there would be hell before she even began.
“Was that my father? My father, A.J., really you went to him? Since when do you have his number anyway!” she was pacing and he watched her, amused.
“Since lunch, we exchanged numbers. To be fair Sierra, I asked you first, but you wouldn’t tell me anything, so I asked him.” He moved towards her and she backed away and he frowned.
“You have no right always butting into everything I do, A.J., you shouldn’t have called him, now he is going to worry. I dumped all of our problems at his feet, he is going to be worried. I won’t be there today to handle the business side of the situation. What exactly did he tell you?” She stopped pacing and peered at him.
“You don’t need to go sign the paperwork, he decided not to take a loan out on the house. We talked about Jacob, of course.” He waited for the next round of anger to start.
“What did you do, A.J., what did you do?” She whispered it and he was even more concerned. He could handle her fire, but this was new.
“I took care of it, I offered to pay for Jacobs’s medicine. You could have talked to me about it, Sierra. I would have helped.” She flashed him a look and he felt it like a slap.
“Is that how it is now, A.J.? I stay here, we are… together and now you swoop in and fix my problems?” She waited.
He was angry now. “Hours ago Sierra, I confronted you about planning the same thing. You contemplated it and now you’re throwing it at me when the fact of the matter is I’m not doing it for any other reason than the fact that I love you.” He was yelling now and he watched her face shift and turn red. He ran a hand through his hair and walked to the bedroom to cool off. He knew she couldn’t go anywhere and he needed to breathe, she made him crazy and he had just said he loved her. He felt her enter the room before he even saw her. He turned around to see her crying and he immediately sobered.
“Don’t do that Sierra, I can’t handle you crying. I am sorry, for whatever I did wrong. It doesn’t change the way I feel.”
“I love you too, A.J. I think I always have.” She wiped her face.
He felt his heart soar as he took the few short strides to her and he gathered her up in his arms.
“Arnold.” He kissed her and held her close.
“What?” She looked back up at him puzzled.
“That’s what the A stands for. It's Arnold, and I thought since we love each other you should know.” He gave her a smile.
“What about the J?” She waited.
“Oh no, one name at a time, you have to earn the other one.” She giggled and he kissed her again.