Forbidden Love: A Bad Boy Series Box Set, page 28
“I told him that I’d take care of you ladies for the night, at least until he’s done and then, well, we can all go back to Aiden’s room and have a little fun.”
“What kind of fun?” asked Halle, who was practically purring as she writhed against Zep, her knees crossing as if she had an urge.
“Well, brothers like to share as much as sisters do, so I think if you’re okay with it, we’d like to take turns. Have a little foursome of sorts? You know, make this night so much more interesting.” Zep gave me a smile, and I nodded, laying it on nice and thick for them.
Sadie stepped in closer and locked her arm around mine. “Would that turn you on, Aiden, seeing me and my sister being fucked by your friend?”
I met Zep’s eyes careful not give anything away and then I glanced down into hers letting them smolder. “More than anything. Why don’t you give her a little kiss for me right now? Give me something to tide me over while entertaining the others.”
She took Halle’s hand, and the two leaned in close and pecked each other on the lips, no more passionate than a mother and child. Then they grinned. “You’ll have to wait for more than that. We don’t perform for an audience, private guests only.”
“Then I’ll just have to sit and daydream.”
“I could give you a little kiss to tide you over,” Sadie offered.
I leaned in and gave her a little peck, about as quick and painless as the one she’d given her sister. “You’ll have to wait too, but feel free to get started without me, I want you nice and limber when I get ahold of you.” I slapped her ass, and she gave a maniacal giggle that would give a horror fan chills.
“Then it’s a deal.” Halle smiled and kissed Zep on the mouth. And Zep leaned in and took Sadie’s face in his hands and slowly kissed her. It went a little deeper than I’d expected from her, but she gave me a little wink after.
I leaned in and ran my hand up the back of her neck and pulled her ear close. “That’s such a fucking turn on.” Stepping back, I gave her a wink. “I had better go and entertain the others. You keep my friend, Zep here happy and out of trouble for me, okay?” She gazed back at me with such wonder in her eyes that I knew she was good to go. I shook Zep hand and slapped his back. “Make sure you take good care of our girls.”
“Sure will. I’ll have them ready for you.” He gave me a wink before the three of them strolled away. Then, I knew I had to move fast and find Ella.
Having to pretend with the twins was enough to make my stomach turn but as soon as they were gone off with Zep happy, I put my attention back on the mysterious Ella. I didn’t even know her name and knew that was the first thing I’d have to remedy, especially if I wanted to find out anything about her. Zep was supposed to keep the twins at bay and keep his ears open for any clue about Ella.
I walked through the house going room to room where the party crowd had gathered and caught a glimpse of Zep already bringing the ladies up to my room that I kept here in the main part of the house. I hoped my mother wouldn’t see them because I knew she’d make them go back downstairs. I didn’t know where she was hiding out, but I hoped that while I pursued Ella, she’d stay out of sight.
I strolled into the room where the refreshments were kept hoping that she had gone for something to eat, but when I glanced around she wasn’t there. I went to the ballroom to see if she was in there dancing, hoping like crazy she’d not met someone else, especially any of the rich pricks that my mother had invited.
My blood turned cold at the thought, stilled in my veins as if it had frozen and my anger suddenly spiked. I didn’t want her with anyone else. I had to find her and fast. I searched around and didn’t find her. I stopped and was about to turn and go back out the foyer to see if she was leaving when a slight movement caught my eye on the veranda beyond the dancefloor.
I rushed across the floor, pushing past the other couples as they danced and made my apologies. Not one tried to argue or called me down, and a few even excused themselves as if they were to blame.
I stood in the door and watched her as she stood against the railing to look out at the stars. The moon was hanging nearly full in the sky and the night was so clear that the sky was a dark shade of navy and sprinkled with millions of tiny stars. They were nothing compared to the sparkle in her eyes which had been the bluest blue I’d ever seen. I couldn’t move as I watched her, her shoulders were square, her posture perfect as she stood inclining her head to the sky as if everything she wanted in the world was right there before her.
At that moment, I wondered, how could I compete with that?
Chapter 11
Ella
Growing up my mother had always taught me that it didn’t matter how much money people had, that everyone was worthy of love and respect. She’d taught me not to bully or belittle others and that it wasn’t important to be everyone’s best friend, but it was important to be friendly to everyone. She’d also taught me something else that I often found more challenging than anything else, and that was to look for the good in everyone because everyone had some good in them.
As I stood staring at the bright night sky, I thought of her and missed her like crazy. And I also kept thinking of her lessons and hoped they were true. I didn’t like thinking of Aiden as an asshole, but then maybe he hadn’t had anyone in his life show him how to love like I had.
“I was beginning to think you’d left.”
I turned to find Aiden across the room standing right in the doorway under a rose garland that probably cost more than my dress. “I thought about it.”
“Why? Aren’t you having a good time?” He walked over and stood next to me.
“I didn’t feel very welcome, considering I’m not rich or famous and I don’t have any blue blood running through my veins or millions in my bank account.”
“Most people here don’t either.” He lifted his shoulder and tilted his head.
“Well, I think it’s mean to invite people just to make fun of them, or to get back at your mother.” I couldn’t believe the tone I’d taken and wanted to pull the words back in as soon as I’d let them out. “I’m sorry, it’s not my business, it’s not you forced anyone to come.”
“And I didn’t invite anyone to make fun of them. I happen to like everyone I invited. They’re my friends. I think you misunderstood me. I don’t care if my mother likes them or not is all I’d meant to say. We don’t see eye to eye on who is worthy of my friendship.”
Relief washed over me. “Oh, I’m sorry I jumped to conclusions, but I’m glad you had the chance to clarify.”
“Me too. I can only imagine what you thought of me.” He let out a long breath and held onto the rail as he leaned forward into it.
“Not much, I’m afraid. Well, that’s not true.” I shrugged, but he got a curious grin on his face.
“So, tell me. What did you think of me?” He gave me a nudge, and I couldn’t help but laugh.”
“I thought you were an asshole,” I mumbled the word like I’d just said something much worse.
“A what?” He cupped his ear and leaned in.
“I thought you were an asshole,” I stated much more clearly and with my head held a little higher.
“Ouch.” He held his heart and winced. “You’re brutal. I like that. Would you like to come up and see that view from up there?” He pointed to a big beautiful balcony, and I had to admit the night sky would have been much amazing from up there.
But I hesitated. “I’m not sure.”
“Why not?” He nudged my side. “I’ll be a perfect gentleman.”
“How do I know that?” I folded my arms across me, as the wind chilled my shoulders.
“I just gave you my word.” He met my eyes, and I shrugged like I wasn’t impressed.
“Besides, I could grab you something for your chills up there, but down here,” he looked around. “You’d have to settle for my coat.” He started to unbutton his coat, and I grabbed his hand.
“It’s okay. I’m not cold, but since you insist, I’d love to go up there with you.”
A slow smile spread his perfect lips, and it was enough to make my heart beat faster. He took my hand and led me through the crowd, careful to keep me from bumping into anyone, and then we took to the stairs walking slowly hand in hand. He’d stop behind me on the landings, and I couldn’t help but wonder if he was checking out my ass. The thought of his eyes on me made me feel tingly inside, and I wondered if he really liked me like I hoped.
The Twins could have put him up to this, then again, they’d warned me off of him, and now they were nowhere to be found. I couldn’t help but wonder if they were watching from afar. Or if they’d really kill me if they knew I was with him.
Once we were upstairs, where there was a bench to sit, he’d shut the doors behind us. “Hope that’s okay with you, but I’d like a little bit more privacy with you.”
“Shouldn’t you be down entertaining your other guests. I hate to keep you all to myself.” I second-guessed myself. Why was he giving me such special treatment?
“I’m more interested in you.”
“Why?” I let loose a deep breath. “Sorry, that came out a little harsh, but I can’t help but wonder why me.”
“Why not you? You’re fascinating and beautiful. I like that you have something to talk about. Most want to talk about me and my money, but I don’t think it impresses you one bit, so I’d like to hear more about you and your passion.”
“You mean the jewelry?” His nod surprised me, and I kept proceeding with caution, still unsure if this was some colossal prank.
“Yeah, how on earth did you learn to make your own jewelry? Designing it must take time too, and you’re so good at it. That piece you have on is timeless.”
“Thank you. I learned from my mother.” I wasn’t about name-dropping, but I also couldn’t hide who I was.
“Your mother made jewelry too? Did she ever sell any?”
“Yes, as a matter of fact, she was Layla Ford, I’m not sure if you’ve—
“Heard of her? Are you kidding? Your mother is my mother’s favorite jewelry designer, and she’s got several custom pieces in her personal collection.” He shook his head like he couldn’t believe it. “You’re just as wealthy as others here.” He gave me a sideward glance like I’d been lying to him about who I was.
“Not exactly. I’m afraid my mother’s illness drained our account, and I’m having to live with friends and work as a personal assistant.”
“Oh, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have spoken out of turn like that.” His face turned red, and he raked his hand through his hair.
“It’s fine. I know, I find it hard to believe too. My mother built a fortune, and that dreadful disease took everything. It’s okay though. I’m lucky to have my mom’s best friend looking out for me.”
His eyes narrowed a bit, and then he smiled. “So, you want to follow in her footsteps?”
“She’s taught me everything she knows, so yeah. It’s all I’ve ever wanted. I will do it someday too. I was actually hoping that by coming here, I’d meet a few of the right kind of people. Maybe someone in the business who could show me a thing or two, help me get a foot in the door.”
His eyes narrowed again. “Your mother didn’t leave you with prospects? Surely, she had clients that would help you. Her jewelry is worth quite a bit of money.”
“I’m afraid most of her clients are a little leery working with me. Considering my name is Ford, too, you’d think I’d have an advantage, but I’m not sure if they respect me trying to ride her coattails. I do have a few of her exclusive pieces that I’m going to use for security.” I held my chin up and smiled. “I’ll be okay. Mom worked her way up. I can too.”
“It doesn’t seem like you should have to. I mean, don’t get me wrong, I don’t have a whole lot to do for my father’s company, and I can appreciate you wanting to pave your own way, but you should at least have the security of your mother’s work to get you there. I supposed it’s good you’ve got those pieces. Have you thought about selling them?” I wondered if he was going to offer and I shook my head.
“No, not anytime soon at least. There are a few I’ll never part with. They mean too much to me.”
“I can respect that. Some things are not replaceable.” I felt a bit closer to him knowing he’d lost someone to, and knowing that in my mourning, those phases were something he’d be able to relate to.
“I could introduce to a few people if you like. Some would be very eager to work with you knowing your mother. She was well-loved, and I know my mother was very heartbroken by her passing, and she even attended the memorial service.”
“Considering her guest list, perhaps she wouldn’t be that impressed with me.” I gave a little laugh. He’d made it quite certain his mother only saw the wealthy as worthy.
“I wouldn’t be so sure, Ella Ford. I think she’d be more than impressed. I know I am.”
“What if I wasn’t Ella Ford? What if my name was Ella Smith or Ella Jones?” I wondered how important namesake was to him and his mother.
“I was interested in you when your name was just Ella, so, I hope that answers your question.” He stepped a bit closer, and my heart soared as he took my hand and led me to the bench.
Chapter 12
Aiden
Something wasn’t sitting right with me about Ella Ford and her predicament, but I figured I’d take things much slower and get to know her before I said anything. The fact that her mother had left her without anything was mind-boggling, but then again, I didn’t know the entire situation.
I sat with her on the bench outside on the balcony and looked into her eyes as she glanced up at the stars as if she had a million thoughts in her head and they held the answers. I slipped off my mask, but she left hers in place.
She dropped her chin and glanced in my direction. “What about you, Aiden Prince? What’s your passion?”
The question took me back a bit, but only because no one had ever really asked me. Most people assumed to know me and from they did know, they assumed all I cared about was money and how to spend it.
“You really want to know?” I gave a little chuckle and raked my hand through my hair. “My dad was in real estate, and he used to take my mother’s clients out and show them the island property he had for sale by taking them on plane rides around the island. Every now and then, he’d let me go along. Especially if it was someone I really liked. I met a lot of famous people that way, but then after a while of hearing them talk about what kind of floor tile they want or how many bathrooms, the celebrity wears off, and you realize that they are just like anyone else.”
“So, you stopped going?” She narrowed her eyes as if trying to understand.
“No, but it stopped being about who was with us and more about the planes and the pilots. I met some of the best, and that’s when I decided I wanted to learn how to fly.”
“You want to be a pilot?” Her smile spread so wide I could count all of her teeth. “I’m so scared of those little planes. I would never go on them. My mother used to take me on bigger planes, but I’d throw a fit if we had to board a small one.”
“I am a pilot, actually. I finished my hours right before my father’s death and since I haven’t been up much. I’d like to change that though. And the small ones aren’t that bad. Maybe if I took you up sometime, you’d learn to love them.” I thought about having her in my plane, how intimate of a space it would be, and then I realized I’d never taken a woman up with me, and nobody else had ever cared to know that I could fly a plane, just that I owned one.
“I’m not sure I’d go without sedation,” she said with a laugh. Her laugh was amazing, and before I knew what I was doing, I leaned in and kissed her.
She pulled back and touched her lips and stared at me wide-eyed.
“I’m not going to apologize for that.”
“I don’t expect you to. It was just a bit sudden.” She turned her head and stared at a planter beside us.
“Well, maybe after we talk some more, you’ll let me do it again?”
Laughter bubbled from her, and I couldn’t help but get rock hard when she said, “Okay, maybe next time I’ll kiss you instead.”
I wondered for a moment how Zep was doing upstairs.
“Tell me what you’re thinking?” She turned and met my eyes.
“I was just thinking about my best friend, actually. He’s more like a brother. My mother took him in when we were kids, and I haven’t really been without him much since.”
“Yeah, I always wanted a sibling. I guess every only child does at some point.”
“I wouldn’t know, by the time I could even think about that kind of thing Patricia brought Zep home. But I never resented him. He’s been good to me.”
“His name is Zep? That’s unusual.”
“His father was a rockstar. You know how they all name their kids some weird-ass name. I’ve teased him about it for years. He loves it though, and it fits him.”
“Does he share your same passion for flying?”
“No, he’s supportive though. His passion is more with the ladies.” I couldn’t help but let out a belly laugh at the thought of Zep in the room with those twins and wondering how far he’d gotten with Sadie. My bet was, not far.
I couldn’t take my eyes off Ella, and I wanted to kiss her again but was afraid I’d come off too strong. I didn’t want to scare the poor girl away, but at the same time, she was so hot that I was starting to sweat. I loosened my coat and took it down my arms, letting it fall behind me.
