'Tis The Season Read online

  Dan flashes me a concerned look. “I’m sensing a major but coming.”

  “Two, actually.” I sigh. “She’s got an intense, psycho, rich ex-fiancée who can’t accept their break up. And ...” I hesitate, “she’s eight months pregnant.”

  Daniel chokes on his beer. I pat his back. “You all right?”

  “Not after you swing that on me. You’re going to have to back up and give me some serious context,” Dan croaks.

  I explain the situation, and Dan rubs his chin thoughtfully. “You’re in a tough spot. I can tell from the way you talk about her this is already more than physical.”

  “Yes, and I know it’s the same for her. She’s just afraid to admit it.”

  “Considering her nightmare ex, I can’t blame her,” Dan says.

  “I know.” I rub the back of my neck. “She thinks I’m going to leave her when the baby gets here. It’s the last thing I want. I feel like Flora is mine.”

  He whistles. “That’s a dangerous thought if the mama bear doesn’t feel the same way, bro.”

  “I know.” My chest tightens. “But I can’t help it, not when I’m there watching her grow, seeing Flora develop and caring for her when she allows it.”

  “You need to have a serious talk with her, James.”

  “I’ve been trying to get the words together in my head. Nothing sounds right.”

  “So, go off the cuff and just say what’s in your heart,” Daniel suggests.

  “I’m worried I’ll muck it up.”

  “James, you’re one of the most sincere and frank people I know. It’s not always easy to hear the truth, but I never doubt it when it comes from you. If she’s letting you get this close to her after everything with the douchebag, it means she trusts you.” He places a hand on my shoulder. “I think you should give yourself more credit.”

  “I’m nervous. I can’t remember the last time I was this twisted up over a woman. Maybe when I decided to ask Clare to marry me.” I shake my head, remembering the late-night drinking sessions where I plotted and planned with Dan and Mike there for moral support.

  “You were a wreck trying to figure out where and how to ask her.”

  “She’d waited so long at that point, I felt like it had to be perfect. It feels silly now considering we didn’t even make it down the aisle.”

  “It doesn’t change anything about how the two of you felt.”

  “This feels even more intense. We’re talking about choices that’ll impact a child.”

  “Yeah. You are. Are you ready for that?”

  “I love kids. You know that.”

  “I do. But she won’t be yours. You’ll have to deal with her jack ass father, and—”

  “I couldn’t care less about any of that, Dan. You should know me better.”

  Dan holds up his hand. “I was just playing devil’s advocate. I think any kid would be lucky to have you around in whatever capacity the two of you decide. A child can’t have too much love.”

  His words are a puzzle piece that clicks into place. “You’re right. I’m going to stop by tonight. Faye’s working nights, so she’ll be about ready to head in to work.”

  “Go. You won’t be much use to me here anyway.” He gestures toward the door of the bar.

  “Are you sure?”

  “It won’t be the only time I’ve had a few drinks by myself.”

  “Thanks, man. I owe you.”

  “Just keep me posted?”

  “You know it.” Finishing my beer, I toss a tip on the counter and rise, making my way through the crowded bar. Singing along to the music, I tap on the steering wheel as I drive the familiar path to the condo. Parking, I hurry to her front door and knock. She opens the door with a frown that turns up quickly.

  “James! What are you doing here?”

  I cup her face and kiss her, stepping inside and shutting the door behind us with my foot. “I am crazy about you. I like what we have, but I want more. I don’t want to keep things casual. I want everyone to know you’re mine, and I want to be yours, Faye. We can take things as slowly as you need, but I’ve been swallowing the words for too long, and it’s driving me insane. If you feel the same way, please tell me.”

  “I-I didn’t dare hope,” she whispers breathlessly. “I’ve wanted more for a while now, but I didn’t want to assume, or ...” She shakes her head.

  “I want to be here for you and Flora.” I place my hand over her belly.

  Closing her eyes, she smiles. “I want that, too, James. But are you sure? It’s a lot.”

  I silence her with my lips, staking my claim. “You are my girls now, and I’m going to be sure you’re taken care of.” Her body melts into mine.

  “Don’t make promises you can’t keep, James.”

  “I won’t.” I kiss the crown of her head and feel home for the first time in years.

  “ARE YOU OKAY?” I GLANCE down at her.

  “Yes, I’m just nervous.”

  I smile. “What’s the worst Warren could do?”

  She grimaces. “I don’t want to think about it.”

  “He’s a regular old cop, not a member of the SWAT team, right?” I say, suddenly nervous.

  Her silence fills the room.

  “Right?”

  She laughs, and I scowl. “That was mean.”

  “I figured I’d break the ice.”

  “I’m not sure you accomplished that.”

  Knock, knock. “He’s here.” She pushes herself off the couch and waddles to the door.

  I smile, enjoying the sway of her body. It’s her birthday. We’re celebrating with dinner, followed by cake and presents. I know she misses her parents, but their berating and nagging is wearing her down. Firmly sided with Preston, they sing his praises and pick at her every chance they get. I’ve bitten my tongue about it since it wasn’t my place before. Now, as her official boyfriend, it’s only a matter of time before I speak out.

  “Warren.” She throws her arms around the waist of the giant with similar shaped and colored eyes.

  “Faye! Wow, you look bi—”

  “Beautiful,” I interject, shaking my head as I smile.

  Faye punches her brother in his stomach playfully, and he hunches over. “Ouch.”

  “That wasn’t what you were going to say. Luckily, James saved your ass. James, my brother, Warren, the thoughtful. Warren, my boyfriend, James.”

  We both grin like school kids. It feels good to say the labels out loud.

  “Nice to meet you.” I stick my hand out for him to shake.

  “Likewise. I wasn’t aware the two of you were dating,” Warren says, never taking his eyes off me as he shakes my hand.

  “It’s a recent development,” I admit. I can deal with a little interrogation.

  “Hmm.”

  “Stop.” Faye slaps his arm. “At least get inside and comfortable before you start grilling him.”

  “Jeez, Faye. You’re bordering on abusive here.”

  “Psh. You can take it.”

  “You’re lucky it’s your birthday,” Warren growls more teddy bear than grizzly. “How’s my niece?”

  “Growing fast, as you mentioned.”

  “I didn’t ...”

  She stares at him, and he looks away. “But healthy and on track.”

  “She’ll be here before you know it,” Warren says.

  “I know.” Her voice wavers.

  I squeeze her hand, and Warren places a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “You got this, baby girl,” Warren says.

  “I know. It’s just the whole labor thing.”

  “Remember, our breathing exercises and the classes this month should help.”

  “Oh?” Warren glances from one to the other.

  “We’ve been watching videos to prepare.”

  “Is he going to be in the room when you’re in labor?” Warren’s voice raises.

  “I sure as hell hope so.”

  “I’ll be there no matter what, sweetheart.”

&nbs
p; Her shoulders relax, and I kiss the side of her head.

  “I just figured Rochelle would be there.”

  “I love my best friend, but we both know she gets queasy at the sight of blood. I can’t be worried about her passing out when I’m trying to push out a watermelon.”

  “Okay, enough descriptive language.” Warren makes a cutting motion across his neck.

  “Big baby,” she mumbles, walking into the kitchen.

  “You sit. I’ll serve. It’s your birthday, after all,” I say, pulling out her chair.

  “That’s his nice way of saying, ‘you’re super pregnant, get off your feet’.”

  “I like this guy already,” Warren says.

  “Good, ’cause I plan to be around.” We lock gazes, and he gives a slight nod of respect.

  Once Faye is seated, I set the tossed salad and garlic bread on the table before returning for the lasagna.

  Warren inhales deeply. “It smells amazing.”

  “Mmm-hmm. When’s the last time you had a home-cooked meal?” Faye points her fork at him.

  “Last week,” he answers.

  “Oh?”

  “Uh, yeah.” He smiles.

  “Why do I get the feeling this was not at Mom’s house?” She continues to prod him as he dishes up some salad.

  “Well, it was just Riley and me.”

  “From the pet store? I freaking knew it!” Faye dances in her chair

  “What? Friends can’t eat together?” Warren asks lamely.

  “The looks you two exchanged were not of the ‘let’s be friends’ variety. The two were mooning over each other under the pretense of picking out Monty.”

  “What? You love my nephew,” Warren protests.

  “I do. But I’m also not blind. Maybe I should start butting into your love life.”

  “God. Please don’t.” He shakes his head.

  “Oh, is Mom after you?”

  “Like a bloodhound after a scent.”

  “The usual I want grandchildren before I’m too old?” Faye snorts.

  “Never mind that she’s about to have one in less than two months.” Faye balks. “Shit. I am so sorry, Faye.”

  “It’s the truth.”

  “I know they’re your parents, so forgive me, but they’re being right assholes.”

  “Hey, no arguments here. I don’t support the way they’re handling things. I’ve been trying to talk to them.”

  “Or supplying that slimy git with information.” I tighten my hold on the fork.

  “Maybe if you introduced him, they’d ease up?” Warren suggests.

  She sniffs. “I shouldn’t have to.”

  “No, but right or wrong, it might bring in some peace. It’s rotten being so disjointed. That’s never been us.”

  I watch Faye shrink into herself. Anger flares in my belly.

  “It’s not up to her to make it right. She has her hands full preparing for the baby, and Preston is a fucking creep.”

  Warren blinks up at me. I lean over and kiss Faye’s cheek. “It’s your birthday, sweetheart, let’s enjoy the night. Why don’t you tell him some of your thoughts on Flora’s middle name?”

  Warren gives a quick nod of understanding, and works to shift the tone that had settled over the room.

  “I was thinking Magnolia for our grandmother’s favorite flower, or Violeta.”

  I let her voice wash over me as the sorrow becomes a thing of the past. The closer she gets to giving birth, the more the family discord bothers her. I want to help, but it feels like her parents are in Preston’s back pocket. Clearing away the table, I bring out the cake with the fancy opening flower candle that spins.

  She claps her hands. “I love it.”

  We sing a round of happy birthday, and she blows them out. The knock on the door makes me frown.

  “Are you expecting anyone else?” Warren asks.

  “No.”

  “I’ll get it. Enjoy your cake.”

  Peering out the door, I frown at the man dressed in a suit before I answer it.

  “Can I help you?” I ask.

  “Yes, I’m looking for Faye Ferguson.” I see the manilla envelop in his hand.

  “One moment please.” I return to the kitchen

  “Who was it?”

  “Someone with a delivery you need to sign for.”

  “Oh?”

  Warren frowns as I help her up and follow her back to the front door. She signs for the envelope, and he walks away. Opening it, she lets out a wail.

  “He can’t do this.” Her eyes tear up as she sways.

  I grab her to keep her on her feet as Warren kneels to pick up the discarded papers. “Preston is taking her to court for full custody.”

  Of course the son of a bitch waited to have it delivered on her birthday.

  Chapter Four

  Faye

  “I assume you got my paperwork?”

  I exhale. He was probably waiting by the phone for the fallout he knew he caused. Sitting on the side of my bed, I rest my head against the headboard. James sits beside me, holding my hand as I fight to keep my voice neutral. He gets off on reactions. The best thing I can do for negotiations is to not give him a response.

  “Why are you doing this, Preston? I was willing to work out a fair, partial custody agreement. We could split things between us equally.”

  “Why? So, you and the dog doctor can raise my daughter? No.”

  “This has nothing to do with him.”

  “Doesn’t it? You’ve changed since you got together.”

  I grip the phone harder. Lashing out will only make this worse. “Do you really want to go to court?”

  “No. Which is why I’m giving you a choice.”

  “What?” My stomach aches. I know where he’s going.

  “End things with the pretty boy Brit, and this can all go away.”

  “What the hell, Preston?”

  “Those are my terms.”

  “No.”

  “Then, I’ll see you in court. Though I would ask yourself what court would choose you over me when I can hire a slew of nannies, place her in private school, and give her the best of everything? You don’t even have a house. You rent a condo.”

  His words feel like nails in a coffin. I don’t even know how I’d scrape together enough to hire a lawyer.

  “Think about what’s most important to you.” He disconnects.

  And just like that, he’s back in control of everything.

  “What did he say?”

  I shake my head, unable to repeat it. “I need some time, James.”

  “No. Don’t let him place a wedge between us.”

  “I have a lot to think about. Please.” Closing my eyes, I massage my temples.

  “Okay. Shhh.” He places light kisses all over my face. “Don’t stress.” He massages my scalp, and I lean into him. “We don’t have to talk about it, but I’m not leaving you after getting news like that.”

  Why does he have to be so damn perfect? Men like James don’t come around every day. He’s the kind of father I’d want for Flora. The thought of continuing this pregnancy without him literally makes me ill. But none of that matters if I lose Flora. Does the fact that I’m thinking about this make me a shit mother? Children always come first. I grip him tightly. I need one more night to say good-bye to the man who’s become my heart. Pulling away, I nip at his bottom lip.

  “Make me forget, James. Just for tonight.”

  “Sweetheart, I’m not sure that’s a good—”

  “I’m ready. I want to be connected with you.”

  He cups my face. “Faye.”

  “It’s my birthday. This is what I want as my present.”

  “Low blow.”

  I smile up at him and poke out my bottom lip.

  “Okay, that’s it.” He tickles my sides lightly, and I laugh. A night of joy and total completion before the happiness I’ve built is destroyed. I shove my baggage in the attic of my brain and fully immerse myself in t
he present. Kissing my forehead, he leans back. “Better?”

  “With you, it always is, James.”

  “You don’t have to lay it on so thick, sweetheart. You’re already getting into my pants.” He winks.

  “I wish I was more mobile,” I whisper.

  He nuzzles my neck. “I like it when my woman rides me.”

  I climb into his lap and hook my arms around his neck, falling into the dark green gemstones he calls eyes. The adoration and desire are there for all to see. I love how open and honest he’s been with me. I run my hands through his thick hair and squeeze my thighs together as I grind against him. He grunts his appreciation and grasps my hips, rocking upward. Sparks sizzle their way up my body.

  “Come here.” I bend down, and he captures my lips in a bruising kiss. We kiss, teeth clashing and lips swelling, pausing to suck in air as we make love with our mouths. I feel like my soul is about to leave my body as all the emotions I’ve developed spill over into our mouth mating. We shed our clothes, baring our bodies like we are our souls. I’m wet and throbbing as he lays on his backs, and I grip his base. Our eyes lock as his wet tip pierces my core. I slowly ease down.

  “You’re so big,” I moan as he works deeper, inch by inch. Pressing my palms flat on his chest, I grip him with my thighs and lower myself farther.

  “Let me in, sweetheart. Relax, and let me fill you up. That’s it.”

  I gasp as he pushes as deep as he can get. I can feel him pulsing inside of me like a heartbeat. I flex, and he groans.

  “Are you ready for more, sweetheart?”

  “Yes,” I rasp.

  He thrusts up, and I cry out, taking everything he has to give. We move together, finding a steady rhythm. He changes me, chasing away the darkness as he fills the empty spot inside of me with blazing light. I let go as we come together, skin slapping, bodies writhing. He hits the spot inside of me that makes me see stars. I clamp down around me.

  “That’s it.”

  Picking up the pace, we race toward completion. My head spins, and my body tingles as the coil inside of me snaps, and I cry out, shaking as I convulse around him. He pumps a few more times before he explodes, flooding me with his heat. I slump onto his chest, spent, complete, and already mourning his loss. Rolling us onto our side, he strokes my hair, kissing me softly. His eyes are the last thing I see as I drift off to sleep, mindful of the fact that I’m lying to myself. Giving him up won’t be simple or easy.