 
A Gentleman's Club

The Tainted Series

By

T.L. Tate

Copyright © 2020 by T.L. Tate

Cover Photo Copyright of Sergey Mironov/Shutterstock

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.
Author's Corner

Thank you for picking up this story. But before you get started, please be warned, this story is a continuation of the Gentleman's side of the Tainted Series. As such, this story continues from where Sirens: A Gentleman's Story left off.

Basically...there will be spoilers.

If you haven't read Sirens: A Gentleman's Story yet and if you hate to have a good story spoiled before you can enjoy it yourself—Stop reading, now! Pick up Sirens: A Gentleman's Story and have a good read before you come back to this story. On the other hand, if you just don't care about having a good story spoiled or you just say, "You know what, T.L.? I'm just too into this story already to stop. I'll read Sirens: A Gentleman's Story right after I finish this great story", then I guess I can't stop or blame you.

Regardless...You've been warned.

Without further ado...please enjoy book 7 of the Gentleman's side of the Tainted Series, A Gentleman's Bet!

T.L. Tate

*** FINAL WARNING—SPOILERS AHEAD! ***
A Suggested Reading Order.

Hello,

Before you dive into this story. I wanted to give you a quick list of the Gentleman's branch's stories in chronological order. That way, you won't read it in the wrong order and end up spoiling the story for yourself.

I personally hate it when that happens.

Here you go!

A Gentleman's Curse

A Gentleman's Folly

A Gentleman's Pride

A Gentleman's Code

A Gentleman's Indiscretion

Sirens: A Gentleman's Story

A Gentleman's Bet

A Gentleman's Club
Contents

Title

Copyright

Author's Corner

The Story So Far

A Gentleman's Club

Part 1: A Gentleman and the Young Mother

Chapter 1

Interlude I

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Part 2: A Gentleman and the Sirens

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Interlude II

Chapter 8

Interlude III

Part 3: A Gentleman's Club

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Epilogue

Other Works

About the Author

The Story So Far

Rachel—my wife.

Toni—my sister-in-law.

Sarah—my executive assistant.

Amara—my therapist.

By this point I can honestly say that I'm not living a very upstanding life. So much has happened. Where should I begin?

Well, I guess as the man says, let's start at the beginning.

My name is Jacob Aspen. Most people just call me Jake. I'm in my early 30s and I'm married, but our relationship is a bit complicated. Just to give you a quick rundown, my wife of 7-years, Rachel, had an affair with one of her co-workers. His name is Alex. Our relationship has been tough for a few years. It wasn't that I had done anything, you know. It wasn't like I was being an asshole or like I was cheating on her or anything. She simply lost interest in me and our marriage. She said that I was "too nice." Yeah, that happened. I didn't know that there was a such thing as a husband being too nice to his wife, but apparently it was a thing. Anyway, using that as an excuse, she went about a torrid affair that I found out about the day before my 30th birthday.

She'd planned a weekend fuck-trip with him to Las Vegas. And yes, she planned it to be over my birthday so we didn't spend any time together. At first, I was hurt, as you'd expect. However, those feelings of pain were a mere pin prick when compared to the feelings I experienced when I found out about her affair.

That brings us to Toni. Toni is Rachel's younger sister and my sister-in-law. After learning that Rachel and I were having problems, she inserted herself into our relationship and was the first one to find out about the affair. Of course, that wasn't all that she did to insert herself but we'll get to that in a little bit.

Toni is a complex woman but I think she's a good person. She gave Rachel time to tell me about the affair. Rachel didn't take her up on that offer. After finding me in my house, brokenhearted because my relationship was falling apart, Toni approached me and informed me about the affair. That tough love act tossed my heart and soul down an endless chasm that I was destined to remain lost until the light of life left my eyes. And no, I don't think I'm being dramatic. That was how I felt.

Despite my pain, or maybe because of it (at least partially), Toni showed up at the stroke of midnight on my birthday to snap me out of my funk by any means she deemed appropriate. As it turns out, the tact she chose was, up until this point, unfathomable to me. Toni showed up to seduce me. Not to make excuses, but with how I was feeling, I think I was easy prey in her eyes. She took advantage and she pounced.

She sold me on it by telling me that it would help me grow stronger and be the type of man that her sister and my wife, Rachel would drool over. I fell into her velvety clutches and never looked back!

What I wished I had known then though was the fact that prior to our tryst, Toni had been a virgin. She'd kept herself that way until she was able to be with the person that she loved. Yes. You've guessed it. As it turns out, Toni had been in love with me for years. Only, I didn't know it at the time.

I'm no superhero. If anything, I'm a bit fucked in the head. After what happened with Toni, I had the balls to confront Rachel about the affair, which she ended immediately and called her fuck-trip short to come back home. But the damage had been done. In my mind, the marriage was over. I couldn't trust her and I couldn't trust me not to have a bit more of Toni after finding out just how delicious she was. As a last-ditch effort to save this sinking ship, I suggested therapy. Rachel jumped on the chance.

This brings us to Amara. Now, she's the most complex. On the surface you'll see a stunning Black goddess, who was miles ahead of her colleagues in her profession as a couple's therapist. When we first met, I was floored by how attracted to her I was. Of course, I couldn't display those feelings in front of Rachel, so I buried them in a decidedly shallow grave.

Amara was patient, understanding, informative and insightful. Amara ended up being a snake in form-fitting clothing. I didn't know it at the time, but she had already been making her own preparations.

A few days after we started seeing Amara, Rachel met up with her ex-lover, Alex, at a hotel. I happened upon them simply by accident. When I saw them, I assumed that she wanted to continue her affair and was only paying lip service to me about wanting to improve our relationship. I felt like a fool but at the same time, I was just too damn angry to spend anytime ruminating over my feelings. I set off on a mission of destruction, propelled by my intense hatred and pain.

What I found when I arrived at the room was nothing like I expected. Alex had attacked Rachel. So, in a fit of rage, I attacked him. The results of this fight led Rachel into a downward spiral of guilt and after one session with Amara, she decided to up and leave. She took a job out in Rhode Island. We were officially separated.

Amara didn't wait long before she pounced on me. Of course, it wasn't all her. I played my part as well. The fact was that I found her ridiculously attractive and when the opportunity arose, I grabbed it with both eyes open.

What Amara and I shared was dangerous and reckless. When I tried to end things my life only got weirder, but we'll get to that later.

This brings us to Sarah. Hmm, what can I say about this woman? Well, let's start off with the obvious. Sarah works for me. She's my executive assistant. When I first met her, she was this mousy little thing who would sooner hide herself away in a corner than look at you. It didn't take long to learn that that was just the tip of the iceberg.

Sarah was engaged to a guy by the name of Chris. Chris was a real scumbag. He abused her both physically and emotionally. When I met Sarah, she had already been nursing decades wroth of demons. She hid it all well and didn't let us know but nothing can be hidden forever.

One day, Sarah appeared on my doorstep. She had been beaten brutishly. She was black and blue all over. Upon seeing her, I couldn't help but want to protect her. So that's what I did. I opened my home to her and became a shoulder for her to lean on. Under that situation, she flourished.

Not only did she find the strength to get rid of Chris once and for all, but she also grew as a person. Stepping into the light for the first time in her life. We were suddenly friends and I loved it. But that didn't last for long.

Unbeknownst to me, Sarah had been nursing an affection for me. What's worse, she even found out about my affair with Toni, Rachel's sister. I felt like my world was going to end. Right when I felt like things were hopeless, she made me an offer that I couldn't refuse. I agreed to be her lover.

When I had first started this journey, after learning about Rachel's affair, I was a man in pain and I was broken. By this point, I know for a fact that I'm not the same naïve man that I was in the past. Instead, I've been come wizened by the trials. My past has shaped me but my choices have tainted me.

Now that the introductions are out of the way, it's time to tell you the end of my story.

A Gentleman's Club

The Tainted Series

Part 1

A Gentleman and the Young Mother

Chapter 1

Jacob Aspen

The bright lights seemed dim. To my right sat Rachel. Her long brown hair was curled at the ends. She wore a tight evening dress that made her slim figure look enchanting. To my left sat Ginger. Despite Rachel and I dressing up, she wore a simple ensemble of jeans and a faded t-shirt.

If I could describe the room where we sat in a word, that word would be opulent. I learned this before coming over, but Ginger's father, Darwin Plades, was a developer. He was apparently pretty successful, too. Their house wasn't greedily large or overbearing, but the materials that it was built from were expensive yet functional. The design, including the interior design, was proposed by his wife, Ginger's mother, Julia Plades.

When we first arrived for dinner, Darwin and Julia met us in the front hall. They were a handsome couple. Darwin was likely 20-some odd years my senior but still looked fit enough for a pick-up game of football. To compliment him, Julia was as graceful as a dancer when she moved. She was also older, but younger than Darwin. It was obvious around the lines of her eyes and mouth that time was catching up with her. However, it only made her look more attractive. She didn't look like a cougar or anything. She just seemed experienced and calm. She seemed to view the world as it was without making excuses and although she was kind and welcoming, there was a certain coldness that I felt. If Darwin wore his heart on his sleeve, she protected hers behind a mountain fort.

I got the distinct impression that with Darwin, what you saw was what you got. However, with Julia, she'd only lower her guard after you've earned that privilege. Right now, I hadn't earned that privilege so I was greeted with a kind yet cold welcome.

The evening was billed as a dinner. In reality, we planned on explaining the situation between the three of us as well as letting her parents know that she was pregnant.

When they welcomed us, Darwin was pretty friendly with Rachel. I guess they'd met before so they got to know each other a little. He was even nice to me because I was her husband. While Darwin talked our ears off, Julia led us to a sitting room. In that room, I was offered the middle cushion on the couch, while Rachel and Ginger sat on opposite sides of me.

The entire time that Darwin entertained us, Julia watched. Her eyes were piercing. Not in an aggressive way, but she was definitely preparing herself for the worst.

Darwin asked a lot of questions. He asked about my business. He asked about how Rachel and I met. When he asked how I felt about Rachel living here and me living back outside of Chicago. When he did, Rachel was the one that spoke.

"Honestly, Darwin...that's a bit complicated."

"Dad, it's personal."

"Personal?" Darwin looked between the two women. He was like a bull in a china shop—no delicacy whatsoever. "What could be so personal? It's a simple question."

I smiled wryly. "At first, I didn't like it. At the time, Rachel and I were having some marital problems. Because of that, and a few things that happened after, Rachel decided to take a job out here to give us both time to work things out on our own."

"Really?" His eyes grew large but he didn't retract his question. If anything, he doubled down. "If I were you, I wouldn't have let such a cute girl live alone halfway across the country. No matter what you did, Jake...it is Jake, right? Right. So anyway, no matter what you did, you've got to be a man and stand up for your lady. You can't just let her go because she's mad at you. If it were me, I would've fallen on my sword to keep her at home. Damn your pride. You've got to set that aside at times like that."

As he spoke, I couldn't help my jaw from hanging open. A simple glance to my sides informed me that Rachel and Ginger both had similar expressions on their faces. Even Julia looked at her husband with a practiced exasperation. She must've been used to his eccentricities.

"Dad...umm...it's not..."

"Hang on, Muffin. Like I was saying, Jake. What could you have done to make this happen?"

I found myself lacking the ability to speak. I don't think I've ever met such a clueless person in all my life.

"Darwin, honey—why don't you let them speak?" Fortunately, Julia was there to pull back the reins a bit. After her intervention, he obediently shut up and let us talk. But by that point, we all needed a couple of minutes to collect ourselves.

I heard Rachel sigh. "It was all my fault actually, Darwin. Jake didn't do anything but be an amazing husband. As I said, Jake and I have been married for...going on 8-years in a few months. When we met in college it was lovely and passionate. But over the years, as they seem to do, the passion seemed to cool off. In all of that time, Jake was an outstanding husband. Unfortunately, for him, I found myself wanting to experience something different. Because of that I had an affair. Jake found out and it nearly ruined my marriage."

"You?! You had an affair?" Darwin was flabbergasted but he shut up once more after Julia cleared her throat loudly. "S-sorry. Please continue."

"Yes. I had an affair. It was stupid. I know that now more than ever—trust me. Regardless, I did. When Jake found out, I was beside myself. In that moment, I realized how colossally stupid I had been. But it was too late. The damage had been done. When I was certain that he'd leave me, he gave me one more chance. Still, the person that I was seeing wouldn't let things go. He started harassing me and making things difficult for his own sake. I planned to settle things in secret, without Jake. But when I met him, things took a turn for the worse and he attacked me. He hit me and tried to rape me. Fortunately, Jake somehow appeared and saved me."

I was carefully watching Rachel as she spoke. I wanted to be sure that retelling this story didn't cause her an extraordinary amount of pain. While there was pain in her eyes as she recalled the events of the past, her eyes were steady and strong. She was no longer the shell of a person that she was when she originally left. She was stronger now and it showed in her countenance. I gently squeezed her knee to let her know that I supported her.

"Unfortunately, everything that happened sort of wrecked me. I was in no sane state to be a good wife or friend. So, I left. I put in for a transfer and my company approved it. That was around the time that I met Ginger and we became best friends."

Darwin's mouth was closed in a grim line. Julia continued to watch everything gracefully from her comfortable seat on the French-inspired loveseat next to Darwin. She was silent and composed whereas he was just barely holding it together.

After a moment of silence, she spoke. "Why don't you all tell us what brings you here. I think we can all stop pretending that this is about a simple dinner. What's going on?" Her voice was quiet but it held an indescribable strength. No one could go against it.

After sitting silent for a minute, Ginger took a deep breath as she looked into her parents' eyes. When her courage was at its zenith, she calmly said, "I'm pregnant."

In all the world, that simple phrase was the most powerful thing that they could've heard. Not only was Darwin knocked for a loop but even the cold and impassive expression on Julia's face changed rapidly to one of disbelief.

After the moment of shock, Darwin exploded from his seat. "Pregnant?! How? Was it that little prick, Trevor? I'll kill him! I'll kill that little fucker dead!" Darwin was no longer the friendly and off-kilter host that I'd met. He'd become a man whose powerful body had been fueled by rage. He was furious.

It was at this moment that Julia came back to her senses. She reached for Darwin's hand and he had enough presence of mind not to shake her off. As he fell back on the loveseat, his eyes continue to burn with barely restrained fury. Julia watched the three of us swallow back a collective lump of nerves and her eyes grew even larger.

Despite his rage and her shock, we weren't done.

I squared my shoulders and looked at them both quite steadily. "I am the father, sir."

If I had a pin and dropped it, it would've shaken the room. It was that quiet.

Neither Darwin nor Julia said anything for several minutes. It was like they didn't quite understand what I had said. No one spoke. No one moved. We all sat there as the news of what happened sank in.

"H-how is this possible? You're Rachel's husband, right? How did you get my baby girl pregnant? Did you...did you take advantage of her?" His voice was quiet but there was undisclosed angry in his tone.

"Daddy, he didn't take advantage of me. I wanted to be with him."

"But he's married! Married! How could you be with a married man? He's even your best friend's husband. It doesn't make sense."

"That's my fault, Darwin. I already told you about my affair. Well, when we went out to Chicago a couple months ago, it was to celebrate my birthday. Some things happened and I convinced the two of them to hook up."

"Hook up? Hook up! Is that what you call tricking my precious baby girl? Huh?!" He started to launch himself up. I was prepared for this. I knew coming over that there would be a lot of emotion in the air and that violence was a real concern. Still, regardless of the fact that he was Ginger's father, if he attacked Rachel, I'd end him.

Before he could stand, Julia spoke. "My heart, did you think about your future? What are your plans? How are you going to raise this child? What about college? What about the company? Have you given any thought as to what you're going to do?"

Julia was as shocked as Darwin, maybe as mad if not more, but she didn't let that distract her from the hard truth.

Darwin closed his eyes, nodding along with her words. "She's right. You're just a child. You have no right raising a baby, especially with such a scandalous situation."

Ginger grew hotheaded in that moment. She obviously got that from her father. "I'm not a kid, Dad! I'm having this baby and you can't stop me!"

"Why you...!" Darwin responded to her words with his own anger. This was getting us nowhere.

I decided to intervene. "Mrs. Plades, Ginger, Rachel and I have all discussed this beforehand. Currently, the plan is to allow Ginger to finish out the remainder of her semester. After she graduates, she plans to move in with Rachel and I back in Chicago. There, we'll raise our child. As far as her future job prospects, that is still up in the air. For the time being, I thought that it would be best if she spent some time just raising our child. Money isn't an issue so I think spending time with the baby would be for the best. Rachel and I will continue to work to provide for the family and that is how we will treat her. She is having my child so I can't imagine just treating her as Rachel's friend. While it's true that this happened as the repercussions to a poor decision on all of our part, no one here wants to see Ginger unhappy. We plan to support her and raise this child as a family."

"Like hell you're taking my baby to fucking Chicago! She's not going!" Darwin was basically turning red with rage.

Julia held up her hand. "Jacob, I don't know you. I can't claim that you've made the best first impression either. The fact is, I don't trust you or Rachel to be able to take care of my daughter. Why should we give you our permission to take her and our grandchild anywhere?" Julia's eyes were cold. Her presence was heavy. It was like there was a weight on my chest. Regardless, I couldn't back down now. If I took one step backwards, I knew it would be the end.

"Respectfully, ma'am. It's not your place to permit us to do anything. This was a decision that the 3 of us came to, collectively. While I appreciate that this is a painful and shocking admission, the fact is how and where we raise our child is our choice, not yours. Out of respect, I ask for your blessing, but it's not necessarily needed either. This will happen. When it does, I hope that you will support us."

There was nothing more that I could say. They weren't giving me much room to maneuver. It was really all or nothing.

Julia's eyes didn't soften a bit. Darwin was practically shaking as he tried to control his temper. After a few minutes of silence, Darwin growled, "Get out. Get out, all of you! None of you are welcome here! Go!"

Without arguing, the 3 of us stood and walked out of the room. We left a minute later after silently climbing into Ginger's car.

The drive back to the hotel was long and silent. We all expected things to take a turn for the worst so no one was really surprised. Still, it hurt to watch Ginger silently sob as she drove. She tried to hide it but in a car that small, Rachel and I knew. But this was an important moment of growth. We couldn't do anything for her other than let her feel what she felt and be there for support.

Interlude I

After the three left, the Plades' estate remained quiet. In the sitting room, Mr. and Mrs. Plades continued to sit there in silence. Neither of them knew what to think. They both had a million thoughts going through their minds. What in the world happened? Was that really their daughter that they'd just sat down with? The girl that they raised wouldn't go after a married man. Would she? Sure, he was attractive but that wasn't enough incentive to play home wrecker.

There were no easy answers but what they did realize was that very soon, their little girl was going to go off on her own. They both felt a mounting fear. They knew how cruel life really was and had always sheltered Ginger from it. Because of their actions, Ginger was a little naïve regarding the vagaries of life. She wasn't ready for how quickly things could change and how much harm could be done. Still, it was out of their hands now.

Julia closed her eyes, considering her options. Before she could come up with a response, Darwin stood up.

"If she wants to do things on her own, then let her. I no longer have a daughter."

When those cold words well from his lips, he slunk away with his shoulders drooped.

Julia could do nothing but watch him walk away. This was hard on both of them and they each had to find a way to deal with it on their own.
Chapter 2

Rachel Aspen

This whole thing is fucked up. I mean, totally fucked up. So, I convinced my husband to sleep with my best friend to atone for my own idiocy. Real smart, Rachel! Super smart. Now, I was going to be a what? A friend-in-law? A step-mother? A second mommy? What? I have no idea what you'd call me but what I did know was that my life was never going to be simple again.

"Rachel? Are you mad at me?" I was sitting on my couch, eating a bowl of popcorn. I must've been glaring at the TV again.

I turned my head and smiled sweetly at the little bitch that fucked and then got impregnated by my husband. "I'm not mad, Ginger. I'm fine."

Bullshit! I was pissed. I was angry that she agreed. I was angry that she spread her slutty legs for my husband. I hated that he fucked her. I hated that he had sex with this little slut. But more than anything, I hated that it all happened because of me.

Honestly, I wasn't really mad at Ginger or Jake. I was mad at myself.

If I hadn't slept with Alex...if only I appreciated Jake more, then I would never be in this mess. Ginger's future wouldn't be in jeopardy. Jake wouldn't be involved in such a crazy situation.

I really am a mess.

I smiled at Ginger again. "I'm fine. Really. How are you doing?"

"I'm okay. Just sad."

That was understandable. The morning after we met with her parents, Julia, Ginger's mom, showed up on her doorstep. Apparently, Darwin planned to disown Ginger. Julia came to let Ginger know that she didn't have to worry about her father's attitude. She claimed that he was just hurt and confused. She urged Ginger to continue doing what she needs to do and not worry about money or a home.

Julia didn't stay long. Only long enough to deliver the message and then she left. Ginger's relationship with her mother wasn't as close as it was with Darwin. Darwin doted on Ginger. He always had. On the other hand, Julia was more like a mentor. Sure, she loved Ginger and wasn't shy about telling her, but there was always an expectation of excellence coming from her. Ginger found it hard to live up to those expectations.

Since then a few weeks has gone by. Ginger's parents (probably her mother) continued to pay her bills as long as she manned the front desk at the hotel. Her room was also still hers and her last semester's tuition was paid. Normally, Darwin would dump some cash into her back account on Saturdays but he hadn't done that since they found out about the baby.

Fortunately, Ginger didn't need much money. Just enough to feed herself and get from point A to point B. Because of this, she had a decent amount of savings. She'd be fine. At least monetarily. She was sad because her relationship with her parents had deteriorated.

Soon we turned the TV off. It was late and I had work in the morning. Like most nights, Ginger slept over. Till this day, I never understood why she'd insist on sleeping in my room when she had a freaking palace all to herself.

That night, like most nights, I dreamed about Jake. In my eyes, Jake was everything that I always wanted and never deserved. He was a god amongst mortals. He was my champion and my rock.

I dreamed of him rescuing me from the dangers of my life and when he did, he made me feel like a precious jewel. He protected me and coveted me. I was his whole world. It was a nice dream.

Unfortunately, reality wasn't as nice.

***

When I arrived at work, the bank was running like a well-oiled machine. We no longer had the wastrel employees that we had previously. The new group of people were great talents. Of course, no one really started working at a bank branch planning for it to be a lifelong career choice. We had our share of transients. You know: college students, part-timers and so on. Still, we made due and were running smoothly.

It was this day that I sent a message to HR. I'd already told my boss my plans to return to the main office. She gave me her blessing and told me that she's put in a good word for me. When I read that response, I smirked. Does she think I'm going to feel indebted to her for saying a few nice things about me? My work at this branch speaks for itself. I only told her my plans as a form of consideration. I didn't need her help getting a job that I'd earned through my own hard work.

Whatever. I guess it can't hurt.

I only planned on staying out here for 3 more months. Ginger graduates around that time. After she graduates, we'll pick up and move back home.

I have to say, it's going to be nice to be back home. It's been just over a year since I left. My relationship with Jake has improved a great deal. I no longer questioned his importance in my life. He was more than my husband. He was my life. I couldn't wait to spend more time with him.

It was around this time that my phone started buzzing.

I picked it up and saw a message from my little sister, Toni.

Hey. What's going on with you and Jacob?

Hey. Not much. Why?

I don't know. He's been acting weird lately.

Weird how?

I can't explain it. Just not like normal.

Have you asked him?

I'm asking you.

I guess there is something that happened.

Oh God. What happened now?

It's a lot to text. How about we talk about it when I come home in a few weeks?

Seriously?! Why wait? If it's that bad, just tell me now.

No. I'll tell you when I see you. Trust me. This is for the best.

Okay. Fine. What should I do about Jacob?

Don't do anything. I'll let him know that you think he's acting weird.

Gee thanks. I can do that myself.

Fine. Just be nice. He's going through a lot right now.

So much that you can't even tell me, huh?

I'm sorry.

Whatever. How are you doing?

I'm fine. Just working.

Why do I feel like you're trying to avoid the question?

I answered your question.

Barely.

Still did.

Whatever. Okay, I'm out. I've got a new trainee.

Okay. See you.

TTYL.

When I sat my phone down, I leaned back in my chair. I suddenly felt exhausted. Initially, I told Jake not to tell Toni. I wanted to tell her myself but I've always been putting it off. It looks like I can't do that any longer. I'd have to tell her when I got back in town for sure.

***

When I got home, Ginger was nowhere to be seen. She wasn't at the front desk. She wasn't in my room.

I went downstairs to see if she was in her room only to find her door locked. I opened it with my keycard and went inside. I found her, sitting on the couch with her back to the door. She had a pair of stereo headphones on and was looking at something. Her red hair was in a ponytail at the top of her head. All I could see was the headphones, her ponytail, and the nape of her neck. I approached her, quietly. It wasn't for any nefarious purpose. She just had carpet from the front door into the living room. When I got close enough, I slowed down. Something didn't seem right.

When I was just close enough to see over her shoulder, I heard her.

"Oooo! Fuck! It feels so good!"

I stopped in my tracks.

Seated on the couch with her back to the door, Ginger was totally naked. Her legs were bent at the knees with her feet on the couch. In one hand was a phone. The other hand was down between her legs. I heard the deep whirl of a vibrator growing louder and quieter as her hand quickly moved.

"Oh shit!" I thought. As I turned to leave, something caught my eye. It was the picture on her phone.

On the screen was the face of a man. He was dark-skinned and handsome. He was smiling and seemed to be at peace with the world. His eyes twinkled as he smiled. His big body looked like it was shaped by the hands of the gods. Even on the small screen, his sex appeal called to you. He was easily the most beautiful man that I've ever seen.

He was Jake.

"Oh fuck! Fuck me, Jake! Fuck me, hard!" At that moment, her hand moved even faster, as she stared deeply into the phone. To her, all that existed was her and that photo of Jake. I didn't know when she snuck that picture but it was obviously special for her.

I heard her wetness squelch before I came back to reality. She continued moaning while I made a mad dash for the door. I was in and out of her room without her ever knowing.

To her, I bet she thought she was hiding her feelings well. Honestly, I knew about her crush on Jake. That was one of the things that got us in this mess. What I didn't expect was that she still felt so strongly about him.

I slammed the back of my head against the wall out in the hallway. A couple of people passed by but didn't say anything when they saw how distraught I was. I closed my eyes out of pain and a fierce devotion towards avoiding the truth.

In two weeks, Ginger and I were flying out to Chicago. At the time, we'll be picking an OBGYN. We had several appointments scheduled. It couldn't be avoided. She'd be there and so would Jake. I was okay with that one time...I mean not really but it was done. Now that I know that she still fantasizes about him, I felt torn. After everything, I can't keep the two of them apart even if I used every trick in my arsenal. It was much too late for that.

Why did I do this? Huh? Why?!

Now she was going to have a bond with him that even I didn't share. She was going to have his child. How could I compete with that? I couldn't. Even if I got pregnant, it still wouldn't be as impactful. She was his first. Knowing Jake, he'd never be able to forget about her.

Feeling dejected, I returned to my room. I turned my phone off and locked my door. I turned all the lights off and headed into the shower. There I cried until I couldn't see straight. Once no more tears would come, I went to bed.

I didn't dream that night.

I hoped in my heart that I'd never dream again.
Chapter 3

Ginger Plades

I've been doing research for months. Ever since I agreed to move in with Jake and Rachel, I wanted to be prepared. This decision wouldn't just affect me. It would affect my child, too. I couldn't afford to be reckless.

Hmm. Reckless.

It's just one little word but it carries so much weight and so many consequences.

My decision to sleep with Jake was reckless. It was reckless not to use any protection. The consequences of those reckless decisions are currently growing in my belly.

For the fourth time in the last two minutes, my hand landed on the slowly developing fetus. I know that I didn't want this at first. I'd be lying if I didn't say that I seriously wondered how it would destroy my life.

My life had always been planned. My parents had their expectations and for the most part, I think I've met them. They loved me, raised me and cherished me as their only daughter. However, now, their baby girl was going to make them grandparents. Even my brothers didn't have children and the oldest was just over 30.

Yes. I'm not ashamed to admit that I started off thinking that this little growing fetus was really a devil of consequences—coming to destroy everything that I've worked for after all these years.

I no longer think that.

This magical creature is growing inside of me and makes me feel so much more complete than I ever have. I'm scared. Sure. Why wouldn't I be. But that doesn't mean that I'm not head over heels for this little child.

I closed my computer after making sure that I had everything down. I sighed in regret after taking a look around the place I've lived in since I was 20. It's been four years since my dad finished this building. In that time, I've grown attached to this place. It was home.

I knew that my dad built this space specifically for me and I loved him for it. But now he won't even talk to me. According to my mom, he doesn't even see me as his daughter anymore. I know that I disappointed them but how could he change so drastically? I needed my parents' support now more than ever and all that I get is a promise from my mom that I can still stay here until I graduate and that my tuition will be paid.

It's not enough.

I'd trade all of that in a heartbeat just to know that my parents still cared about me. They don't even need to smother me. I'd take them just answering the phone when I called.

Over the last week, I've called them numerous times. No one has ever returned a call—not even my mom.

It was heartbreaking.

Jake said that it would probably be bad but that I should still be honest and upfront with them about the pregnancy as soon as possible. Sigh. What does he know?

If he'd just agreed to pretend to be my boyfriend then we could've avoided this until after the baby was born. Then we could've told them the truth. They wouldn't have been able to say anything then.

Right?

Sigh. I know. I know. Stupid idea. I'm just emotional right now.

It was time to get my day started. I got up and left my bedroom. In the living room, my eyes immediately went to the large couch. On one of the cushions lay a dark blue vibrator. Honestly, I'd never had a use for one before. When I was dating Trevor, we had sex a few times a week at first. Over the years that decreased to maybe once every other week but it was still enough for me. After we broke up, I had no real desire for sex.

But after just that one time with Jake, I couldn't seem to quench this thirst that would hit me. The moment Rachel and I returned home, I went out to buy this little toy. It wasn't huge or anything—maybe 4-inches long and 1-inch wide. It wasn't as large as Jake but that was fine. I wasn't trying to hurt myself. I just wanted the pleasure and this little technological miracle gave it to me.

I haven't been a very good friend. I've tried to forget about him over and over again. I didn't want to make another mistake. I didn't want to ruin my relationship with one of the only people that still cared for me—Rachel. I was already an obstacle firmly standing between her and her husband. Because of that, I would try to convince myself that I didn't want who I wanted—Jake.

From the first moment I saw him in the exercise room, I'd been drawn to him. The feelings only intensified when we had sex. I felt an indescribable pull towards him that I couldn't shake.

So, because I've tried and failed to exorcize these feelings, I buried them. I decided not to let Rachel know about them at all. That way she would feel a little more secure about her tarnished relationship.

On the nights when I was alone, I would finally release those feelings. The scene would always be the same and last night was no different.

It would be me, on my couch—naked. I'd play the little voice recording that I snuck from the time that he and I had sex. If Rachel knew that I had this she'd go bat shit. I'd never admit it. I already enhanced the sound with software so the background noises were gone. All that I could hear was the sounds of our bodies meeting and our individual voices.

Mmmm. Just thinking about it gets me hot.

I'd connect my phone to my Bluetooth stereo headphones and listen to the sounds of us fucking while looking at a candid shot of Jake, taken from the night of Rachel's birthday party.

While watching him and hearing him, I'd quickly bring myself to climax. I was too horny though so I'd need to cum at least 2-times before I could calm down. Fortunately, it wasn't an everyday event but I felt like I was only wanting him more now, not less.

Sigh. What am I going to do?

I looked at the clock. Rachel should be getting ready for work. Speaking of work, it was my turn to man the front desk today.

On the days I didn't have class, I'd work a 12-hour shift. I only had an hour before I had to be at work myself. I'd better get going.

***

When I first started working at the front desk, the men would hit on me almost constantly. Now, I'd get approached only once or maybe twice a day. It was a nice decrease. Of course, most of those men that still came on to me were new residents. The older ones eventually learned that I had zero interest in them.

"How about you join me for a drink after your shift is done, honey."

Well...I should say that most of the older one's eventually learned. There would always be exceptions.

This particular exception was named Jason. He'd been with us for just over 3-years. I was beginning to think that he was planning on growing old here. Jason was a handsome man who came on way too strong. He skipped all traces of small talk and went straight to trying to get a girl in his bed. I guess for some naïve girls, this might work. But that didn't work on me. Even if it did, Jason would be the very last person that I'd ever open my legs for. He was gross and gave me the serious creeps.

I smiled sweetly before responding, "I'm not even the tiniest bit interested. If there's nothing else, Jason, have a nice day."

Before he could respond, I heard the elevator door slide open. From inside came a stunning woman. She had long brown hair that was held in a loose ponytail with the ends curled. On her beautiful face was a pair of dark-rimmed eyeglasses. Her cherry lips were slightly pouty and looked amazingly kissable. Her facial features were perfectly proportioned. She was a glorious sight to behold in her red skirt and black blouse.

Rachel Aspen—she was everything that I wished I was as a woman. She was so strong and confident. She didn't take shit from anyone. She was my best friend and one of the two women that I looked up to the most (the first would be my mother).

I called out excitedly, "Rachel! Good morning!" I love Rachel. I really do. She's like a big sister to me. She'd always been so kind to me. In that moment, I reaffirmed my decision to bury my feelings for Jake in a deep chasm. I couldn't betray her.

When she heard me, she froze. For a moment when she looked at me, there was a darkness in her eyes that frightened me but it was so quickly replaced with a soft and warm light that I assumed it was just a trick of the lights and angles. She smiled before coming over, "Good morning, Ginger. How'd you sleep last night?"

When Jason saw Rachel approach, he immediately made an escape. I think Rachel scared him. She was more woman than he could handle. When she first arrived, he tried to seduce her and was squashed under her thumb. I think he's been a little gun-shy to be around her since then.

Whatever, less Jason was never a bad thing.

"I slept okay. Listen, I finalized the appointment with the OB."

"That's great. But are you sure that you don't want to go and see one here? We'll be here for a few months still."

"I'm sure. I'd rather only have one to deal with. Unless there is an emergency, I don't plan on getting another doctor."

"Okay." She hesitated, "You look refreshed. Anything happen last night that I should know about?"

I had to fight to not show any embarrassment on my face. I couldn't give away the fact that I masturbated while imagining her husband. I shook my head. "Nope. Nothing at all. Last night was perfectly normal."

"Hmm. Okay. Well, listen, I've got to get going. I'll see you tonight."

"Okay." I smiled, "Have a nice day then."

"You too."

I watched her walk away with a mixture of feelings burning in my heart. On one hand, I wanted to be like her. One the other hand, I wanted what she had.

I'm a horrible friend.

***

Two weeks had come and gone. In that time, things were fairly normal. I went to work and went to class. I didn't have many friends so I spent a lot of my time with Rachel or by myself. I read a few books on parenting.

The only dramatic thing that happened was that my brothers found out about my pregnancy. They each showed up at different times on the same day to beg me to give the baby up but I refused. They didn't go as hard as my dad did—they didn't disown me. They were disappointed but understood that it was my choice. They promised to be there for me. It meant a lot to know that my brothers hadn't abandoned me.

"Are you all situated?"

When I arrived on the first floor, Rachel met me at the landing. She looked relaxed in her tights and hoodie. I smiled when I saw her. "Yep! I just sat my stuff on the bed. I'll unpack it later."

"Maybe we should start slowly sending stuff here so that Jake can have it all unpacked and ready for when we move."

"I think that's a good idea. It'll be easier when we do actually move."

We had just flown in for a weekend trip back to Chicago. This wasn't going to be the same as the last time we came out here. There were a couple of purposes to this trip. First, I had an appointment with the OBGYN on Monday. Also, Rachel had a meeting with her bosses about her transition back to their main branch in the city. We arrived on a Thursday and would be leaving on Tuesday. I guess you could say that it was a long weekend trip.

"Is Jake working?"

"Yeah. He said that he should be off early. It seemed like he had somethings that he wants to talk to me about."

"Anything I should know?"

"I'm not sure. He didn't make it seem like it was earth shattering but who really knows what that man is thinking. Want to go grab some lunch and surprise him at work?" Rachel's eyes were a little devilish. I could only laugh when I saw her.

I'd never been to Jake's office. The building itself was economical. It was large, yes, but that was the only thing that stood out. We parked in the structure and I followed Rachel into the building. Before going in, we stopped and had lunch. Rachel ordered take-out for Jake.

I felt seriously underdressed. I was still in a pair of jeans and spaghetti straps. Rachel was in her tights and a hoodie but for some reason she seemed to fit right in. I guess even casual wear looked like business attire with the right attitude.

"How may I help you, ladies?" The security guard called out to us the moment we set foot in the lobby. Rachel glided his way and after explaining that she was there to see her husband, Jake Aspen, the guard's tone changed pretty damn quickly. It was a little shocking, honestly.

Jake was a nice guy. He didn't seem like the type to put the fear of God into people but by the way the security officer's attitude changed, I had to question my prior understanding of the man.

We received our visitor passes and were led to an elevator. I felt like the world had forgotten about me. I stood next to Rachel, feeling a little sorry for myself as I held onto the take-out bag filled with Jake's lunch.

When we reached the floor where he worked, the place was buzzing. Even before the doors opened, I could hear the energetic voices of the people working. When the door finally opened, it was like a wall of sound attacked us.

I was flabbergasted. I took one look around, thinking that maybe it was the End of Days or something. Nope. Just a bunch of people working. Despite the hectic atmosphere, no one seemed panicked. They were all working on their tasks and moving around each other with such perfect symmetry that you'd think it was a rehearsed ballet.

We weren't three steps on the floor before an absolutely stunning woman with blond hair came around the corner. She looked like an angel. The only other women that have ever made me feel like I was a gawking teenager besides her, was Rachel and her little sister, Toni.

"Oh my God! Rachel? What are you doing here?" Sarah, Jake's executive assistant, rushed over towards us with all the eagerness of a lost pet. She pulled Rachel into a hug before the other girl could do anything. Then she turned her beautiful hazel eyes in my direction and they lit up. "Ginger? Sweet Lord! You're here, too! This is amazing." She hugged me just as ferociously as she did Rachel.

I liked Sarah. She was sweet and I have to say, that little country twang in her voice only added to her sweetness. When I first met Sarah, it was at the surprise party that Jake and Toni planned for Rachel. We got along famously. The only thing about her that bothered me was that she was not only beautiful, capable and sweet, she had a figure that was to die for. Seriously.

I'm not saying that I'm a dog or anything. It's just that when compared to her, my moderately sized breasts and bum were beyond just lacking. It was like they weren't even there.

As she pressed against me, I was suddenly reminded of my inferiority complex. "Hello, Sarah. It's great to see you again."

She held me at arm's length and seemed to study me. "Hmm. You seem different somehow. Did something happen?"

I blinked several times, unsure how to respond. Luckily, I was saved...somewhat. More inferiority complex coming in 3...2...1!

"Rachel? What are you doing here? When did you arrive?"

From the other side of the floor, an absolutely charming woman with thick hips, a round ass and huge breasts strutted over. She was Toni, Rachel's little sister. Their physiques might be different but you couldn't hide that man-eater vibe either of them exuded. Toni and Rachel could have any man they desired. Of that, I was certain.

"Hey, sis!" Rachel ran over to her and pulled her sister into a tight hug.

Toni looked confused when she first saw her but instantly melted the moment her arms wrapped around her big sister.

"You here to see your man?"

"I am. Is he in?"

Sarah stepped forward, "No. He's in a meeting until 2. Want to come into the lounge? We can all catch up."

Without waiting for a reply, Sarah grabbed my hand and dragged me into this state-of-the-art lounge. It was huge. It was decked out in this Zen-type aura. There were some motivational phrases in pastel colors on the wall. There was a miniature rock garden and a small fountain. There were comfy looking chairs and even a few oversized beanbags to relax in. It looked pretty neat.

Sarah led us to a table in the back. She pulled out her phone and typed a few things before storing it away.

"There. I just sent Jake a message. He should be here as soon as his meeting is over."

Rachel smiled, "Thanks, Sarah. Wow! You look great. What's new?"

Sarah smiled back, "Honestly, not much. Just working."

"So, do you have a guy now?" Rachel leaned forward, smelling blood.

"Umm..." Sarah glanced at Toni. Toni simply shrugged like it wasn't any of her concern. "I guess you could say that."

"Oh yeah? Tell me about him." Rachel stared at her intensely. Sarah knew that she couldn't get out of dishing a little bit.

"Fine. I'm seeing this guy, but not very many people know. He's a great guy. Super handsome, sure. But he's also really sweet. He loves me and I love him."

Rachel didn't hold back. "So, have you two...you know!"

Sarah's face went bright red. "I...I don't want to talk about that."

"Oh, come on! You can't just stop at the good part. Give me details. Details!"

Reluctantly, Sarah started talking a little about her recent sex life. It was nothing raunchy or very informative. All that she said was that she and her guy had gotten together on occasion. It was a far cry from the details that Rachel was after but after sensing that Sarah wasn't going to say anymore, she reluctantly turned her attention to her sister.

"What about you, Toni? Still seeing your mystery man?"

Toni's eyes slightly darkened. "No. I've been too busy. It's not like I don't want to see him but the time is never right. It's been months since I've seen him."

"Do you two talk at all?"

"Sometimes but it's never anything important. That's fine. Like I said, I've been really busy. Love can wait."

"I guess I see your point."

"So, what brings the two of you out here?"

"Just a few pieces of housekeeping. Nothing to worry about."

"Really? How have you been Ginger? I haven't seen you since the party."

When Toni looked at me, there was no guile in her eyes. It was an honest question. I relaxed and joined into the conversation.

We talked for close to an hour. It was all tabletop discussion stuff. Nothing too personal was said from anyone. Obviously, we didn't tell them that I was pregnant or about the appointment with the OBGYN. At some point, things grew incredibly quiet. I was shocked by the sudden silence as I looked at the three women around me.

Each of them had turned their heads away from the table and was looking at the door. A few seconds later, a handsome man in a hand-tailored suit walked in. He oozed confidence and was damn sexy.

"Jake!"

"Jacob!"

"Hey Jacob!"

The three women, all stood up when they saw him. Each greeted him while I sat there like a stooge. How'd they know that he was coming?

Oh well.

When he saw them, he smiled sweetly to each one. "Hey girls." He approached our table and immediately pulled Rachel into a hug. "Hey, babe. How was the trip?"

"It was fine. How's your day going?"

"Can't complain. Hi Ginger. How are you doing?" There was softness to his voice when he spoke to me that I was certain everyone else heard. I found it hard to look him in the eye so I just nodded.

My voice was quiet as I tried to calm my pounding heart. "Fine. I'm doing fine. You?"

He smiled and then placed his hand on my shoulder. "Never better."

I jolted when he touched me. It wasn't even a sexual touch but it still made my body itch in all the wrong and inappropriate places. When he saw my reaction, he pulled his hand back. He didn't seem offended, which was good but I was too engrossed in trying to control my libido to really pay attention.

"Hey, babe. I have a few things to talk to you about. Can we go into your office? Also, we brought you lunch. You can eat while we chat."

"Okay. Sounds good. This way, ladies." After saying goodbye to Toni and Sarah, Rachel and I followed Jake into his office.

I have to get my feelings under control. I have to!

***

After they left, the two women watched them walk away with uncertainty in their eyes. It was more than obvious to both of them that there was something going on between the three of them. It was equally as obvious to them that Ginger had a crush on Jake. It wasn't like the girl was very good at hiding her emotions or anything.

"What do you think is going on?" Toni looked as confused as she felt.

"I'm not sure. I think it's safe to say that we have even more competition though. She obviously likes him." Sarah looked wistful as she remembered how she felt about Jake in the past.

"Competition? I don't think so. It doesn't really feel like that, but maybe I'm wrong."

After a moment of silence, Sarah turned towards Toni. "What's going on with you two? Do you not love him anymore?"

Toni shrugged. "No. It's not that. I'm just not willing to fight for him. I thought I was but I don't want to have to fight for someone's love. I want him to just love me, you know?"

"I understand. And Toni, you know that he loves you."

"He loves you too though."

"I guess but that doesn't mean that you're not important to him."

She sighed, "It's just not enough. It's not nearly enough. Come on. Let's get back to work."

After their short conversation, they each went back to doing what they did best. From time to time, they'd both think about the three of them but since neither had any good ideas as to what was going on, they just let the ideas fester in the back of their minds for the remainder of the day.

Chapter 4

Jacob Aspen

"Okay. I think that just about does it." The room where I stood was totally empty. The walls were bare and the furniture had been removed. This would be one of the last times that I stood in this place.

"Do you have everything?"

Behind me stood a woman whose lithe body glowed in the afternoon sun. She wore a dirty oversized t-shirt and a pair of rumpled shorts but she still looked charming.

Rachel walked towards me, a look of sadness in her eyes as she looked around.

"I can't believe we're moving."

It has been four months since that time at Ginger's parents' house. Since then, I found a new place for us to live. Our house wasn't necessarily small but there was no room for a third adult and a growing child. The weekend that Ginger and Rachel came, I convinced them to agree to looking for a bigger place.

I wanted to live in a neighborhood where the schools were better and even the petty crime rate was less. I found a house that was a few miles away, which was not only bigger but even the yard was bigger. What I liked most about the house was that it came with two suites. Albeit the layout was a little strange. For example, Rachel and I had a suite that was attached to this awesome and recently renovated master bathroom; however, on the other side of that bathroom was another bedroom. It wasn't as opulent as ours but it was still nice. Also, Ginger would have her own suite outside of what Rachel and I shared. The room on the other side of Ginger's suite we figured would be the baby's room. The basement could easily be converted into another room but we decided not to do that. We'll likely convert part of it into a play area and the other into an entertainment area. There were still three guest rooms upstairs that were unaccounted for.

I know. The math doesn't add up. I told you about only 3 of the 7 rooms. Well, let's just say that we got a nice little surprise when we were first introduced to the house. We'll talk about that later.

Moving on.

My favorite thing about the back yard was that there was no pool. I loved our pool at our previous place, but with a newborn, having an in-ground pool was just too worrisome. You read stories all the time about a child jumping in one and not being able to get out. I didn't need that stress. Instead of the pool, the back yard had a separate building. It was like a little pool house but instead of having a pool, the previous owner set it up as a home office. I liked that idea but I felt that maybe keeping it as an open concept space would be better for right now. There's no telling what could happen in the future.

Rachel and I took one final tour of the home we've lived in since right before we got married and we both left with misty eyes. A lot has happened in this house.

"Ready to go, boss?"

Standing outside, right beside the moving van, Sarah had her hair held up in a handkerchief. Her eyes were glowing and her face was flushed. She'd worked just as hard as anyone today. When she found out that I was moving, she immediately volunteered to spend her weekend helping us. She was amazing.

Seeing her standing in the sunlight, looking like a snack, I had to avert my eyes.

...But not as quickly as I probably should've. I got caught...by both my wife and Sarah.

Rachel elbowed me in the ribs while Sarah just turned around like she didn't see a thing.

Busted.

Ahem! Anyway...I drove the moving truck from our old house to our new house while Rachel and Sarah followed behind me in my car.

When we got to the new house, there was a silver Tesla on the side of the road. When I backed up, two women came out to greet me. One was a young woman in her early 20's. Her red hair was woven into a braid. The second was a foxy woman in her late 20's. She had curves for days and was the epitome of sex. Ginger and Toni had stayed in the new house and were systematically cleaning while emptying boxes and directing the deliveries. The five of us worked together like a team but let me tell you, it wasn't at all easy getting to this point.

Before we delve into my current living arrangements, I'd like to go back and talk about a few surprising things that happened along the way. Not to bury the lead, but let's just say that the story involves a deceptive siren, a doting pair of brothers, a trip to the boondocks and a mess of additional obstacles along the way. It was a hard-traveled road, but when looking at the freshly renovated palace before me and the women who were helping to make the place a home, I would be hard-pressed to say that it wasn't worth all of it.

Part 2

A Gentleman and the Sirens

Chapter 5

Amara Jeffries

"Who is this girl that suddenly showed up with Rachel, Sylvia?"

"I don't know, Amara. I'd never seen her before."

"Hmm. Well, don't worry about it too much. I'm sure she's no one to worry about."

I lounged on my comfortable sofa staring out the window in my penthouse with a drink in my hand. The city seemed so small from where I sat. Across from me, Sylvia sat, giving her report from her continued observations of Jake. It has been months since my accident and while we weren't close, I was still disappointed that Jake never showed up to see how I was doing. Of course, that might be because he didn't know what happened.

When the news broke that a Chicago detective tried to murder a up and coming socialite, you'd think that the news outlets would've taken that news and ran with it. But they didn't. The reason was simple. I didn't want them to.

My social status reaching the stratosphere in such a short amount of time only added to my majesty. I was able to bribe several station managers and publishers to keep the story out of the paper.

I sat my drink down and looked at my watch. "That's enough. I've got to go. Thanks for your hard work, Sylvia."

"Of course."

I saw myself out, leaving Sylvia alone in my apartment. She was used to being here by herself by now so neither of us thought anything of it.

I had 20-minutes before visiting hours began. I'd like to make it on time this time. The last time I was late.

I arrived at the building with only a few minutes to spare. After getting through security and making it down the long and depressing hallway, I entered a wide-open room with no walls to separate people from each other.

There were several oblong tables situated in the middle of the room along with half a dozen couches around the edges.

The room was empty except for one person.

"You're late again, Amara."

"I'm sorry." I pulled up a chair and sat across from the tortured yet beautiful Makenna Mathews—the former Chicago detective that almost took my life.

Makenna was the reason I put the news stories in a permanent black hole.

Our history was not a pretty one. Makenna caught the case after my husband died. She always accused me (rightfully so) of murdering him. She assumed I did it for his extreme wealth. That wasn't the case of course. I couldn't care less about his money. I did it because he betrayed me. But I'd never admit that to her.

Makenna always held a strong animosity towards me. I had assumed it was because she was just a good detective and knew a criminal when she saw one. I had no way of knowing that she hated me for a much simpler reason—she was in love with Raphael. He broke off their relationship shortly before he and I got together. Of course, I had no way of knowing that at the time.

Over the few years that he has been gone, Makenna never stopped harassing me. It took me getting out of my comfort zone as well as a portion of Raphael's unused wealth before I had the power to shut her investigation down.

Unfortunately, this didn't lead to the desired effect at all. I hoped she'd stay as far away from me as possible. Instead, she became my lover. What we had was vague yet volatile—made more so when she found out about my relationship with Jake Aspen. At which point our vague relationship became clear and the volatile portion of the relationship exploded and nearly cost me my life.

Makenna was shattered. I didn't know it at the time, but she had been nursing some pretty destructive demons for most of her life. She was beaten, molested, raped and broken by people since she was just a little girl. The job was the only thing that gave her demons direction. She poured her malice out on the streets and was a better detective for it.

Unfortunately, all of that came to an end the moment I woke up in a hospital bed.

After Makenna attacked me, Silvia showed up out of the blue. She saw the scene and called an ambulance. The doctors said that if she'd waited even several more minutes, the swelling in my brain would have killed me. She saved my life.

Other than Silvia, the first people who visited me was the Chief of Police and the Deputy Mayor. They each offered their sympathies and vowed to make Makenna pay.

I'm not a good person. I don't have the capacity to care about people the way that others do. However, there were a few outstanding individuals that have found a way into my atypical mind and barren heart. Raphael was the first. Jake was the second. Makenna was the third.

After killing Raphael and trying my damndest to ruin Jake's marriage, I figured that the universe was giving me a second chance with Makenna. I had to do right by her.

I begged them not to be too harsh on her and to help her. I'm a psychologist by training so I had a very strong feeling when it came to healing through care and not through locking someone up and throwing away the key. Makenna was broken enough. She didn't need prison. She needed help.

That's what I offered.

I couldn't do anything about her losing her badge. Even if I didn't have the clout that I did, they couldn't trust someone that unstable representing the city. I understood that. However, I was able to get her into a mental hospital so that she could get the care that she deserved.

It was just what the doctor ordered. The woman sitting across from me was lucid and refined. She was as far away from her previous personality as the Sun was from Pluto. Part of it was the medication but a larger part of it was the therapy. Generally speaking, Black people and Latinos aren't very good with opening up enough to benefit from therapy. However, this Latina flourished after attending therapy.

She needed someone to listen, to direct and to teach her coping techniques to help her accept and deal with her traumas. She was getting this here but her time was almost up.

The hospital had a pretty stringent policy against touching during visitation. Because of this, we made a no-shoes agreement. When we met, we would remove our shoes and only our toes would touch. It was a small gesture but it mattered. It helped me feel close to her and it helped her feel loved.

"Why haven't you abandoned me?"

"What kind of question is that? I'll never abandon you."

"Everyone leaves."

"Well, I'm not leaving. You're stuck with me."

"Until the wheels fall off?"

"Until the wheels fall off."

This wasn't the first time that we've had a conversation like this. When I first started visiting her, she was very aggressive. She was full of piss and vinegar and would constantly berate me. She treated me like I was her worst enemy because she needed a place to direct her rage. She wasn't capable of taking responsibility or being introspective. She was just too broken and angry. After some time, she was much better. Slowly but surely things improved between us to the point where she considered me her only true friend.

We were closer than we were before and it felt good.

"So, what does this mean for us?"

"You mean when you're released next week?"

"Yes."

"Well, I still think that you should continue seeing a therapist."

"I will."

"And you need to stay on your medication."

"I will."

"Then...why don't we take it a step at a time. I'm totally open to being with you but you've got to stay healthy."

She smiled. It was a broken smile that shined all the more brightly because of its imperfection. "As long as I can be with you, I'll be okay." She didn't say that she would do anything to be with me and that I appreciated. That sort of weak willed self-unrealization would only lead her towards destruction. It was better if she found the strength to achieve her best life through her own efforts and not use our relationship as a crutch.

I thought all of this but there was still one thing that I needed to do.

After leaving Makenna, I arrived in a quiet neighborhood. It wasn't necessarily late; nevertheless, a lot of the houses had the lights off in their front rooms. I pulled up to a two-story home that blended in with the neighborhood quite perfectly. If it wasn't for it's amazing resident then it would remain in obscurity at all times.

I parked in the driveway and then headed to the front door.

I knocked a couple of times. The door opened after only a few seconds.

"Amara! It's been a long time."

Jake stood in his doorway, still as handsome as I remembered. HIs gaze was soft and a little self-deprecating in a charming way.

"Please, come in. When I got your text, I was shocked. I'm sorry I'm such a crappy friend. I shouldn't have waited so long to reach out to you."

His house was as I remembered it. I closed my eyes as I remembered the times I would sneak in. The first time, I remember masturbating in his bed. I really did some risky things in the past. Of course, that was the reason that I had to come see him now.

"It's fine. I've been busy, too."

"Care for a glass of wine?"

"Please."

He disappeared down the hallway for a moment, when he came back, there were two glasses in one hand and an open wine bottle in the other.

"Thank you." We sat down next to each other on the couch.

"So, you said that you wanted to see me but not why."

I watched him as she took a sip of his wine. I saw his eyes rove over my body openly. This was different. In the past, he was a lot more reserved. He seemed a lot less restrained now. No matter. I let him look. It wasn't going to hurt anything.

"I did. I missed you. Is that not enough?"

"That's more than enough reason."

"Good. So, tell me, what's been going on with you lately? You seem to be doing well."

He told me about his job and how things were there. He touched on his relationship with Rachel but didn't go too deep. That was fine. I wasn't his therapist any longer so I wasn't expecting him to be too open about everything.

"What? You were hospitalized? What happened?"

After he finished his story, he asked the obvious question about me. When I told him about my accident, he was shocked.

"Remember that girl that came in when we were together at my place?"

His eyes widened. "I do. Did she hurt you?"

I nodded, "Yeah. It was her. She was jealous and it presented itself in a very dangerous way."

"Oh my God. I'm so sorry. If I had known I wouldn't have let you go that night. I'm sorry I didn't come and visit you in the hospital. I honestly had no idea."

Of course, he didn't. I made a point of not spreading the story. The only reason I told him was so that he understood my true reason for coming to see him.

"Jake?"

"Yes?"

"I want to kiss you." He was still shocked by my story, so I don't think he really understood what I said. He nodded absentmindedly and I sat my glass on the table before taking his away as well. Without waiting for him to come back to present, I pressed my entire body up against him. I drank in his tall dark figure and it was glorious.

The moment our lips touched, he woke up. He didn't push me away but I could feel the surprise in his reaction. I smiled, thinking that it was cute.

I kissed him long and slow. I touched every inch of his body as I pressed myself against him. I imprinted this moment in my mind.

After several minutes of non-stop making out, I pushed myself back.

"Thank you."

He was breathless. "Thanks? For what?"

"I wanted something to remember you by."

He suddenly jolted upright. "Wait. What do you mean?"

I held his stare for a few seconds before speaking. "I'm sorry. That was a little dramatic. I honestly don't know what will happen, but I wanted to let you know that I won't be seeing you again. At least not for a long while."

"Why? Are you angry that I didn't come and visit you?"

"No. It's not that. The woman, Makenna, will be released from care in a week. At that time, I plan on taking her in."

"You're joking, right?" He looked as dumbstruck as you'd expect. "She tried to hurt you. She put you in the hospital! How could you still want to have anything to do with her?"

"Honestly, it's complicated. Listen, I don't expect you to understand but I wanted to give you a reason. I know we're not particularly close but I do care about you. I didn't want our relationship to be left so vague. I hope that we can still be friends in the future but right now Makenna needs help. She needs my help."

"So, you're doing this because of some sort of professional liability?"

"No. I'm doing this to make amends for the things I've done. Not just to Makenna, but to others, too."

We went back and forth a few times but after a minute, he realized that he couldn't change my mind.

"Okay. I guess there's nothing I can say to stop you. I just ask that you take care of yourself."

"You too. Thank you, again. I'll see you around."

Jake saw me out. When I backed out of his driveway, he waved goodbye from the end of his driveway. It was harder than I thought it would be to say goodbye to him. I knew that I would eventually get over it but right at that moment, I nearly turned the car around.

"No. I'm doing the right thing. For the first time in my life, I'm doing the right thing."

***

"What are you doing?"

I woke up to find myself tied to my bed. Besides me, wearing nothing but a wicked smile was a beautiful Latina with luscious lips. Her various scars were out in the open. She wasn't ashamed by them.

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, why am I tied up?"

"Don't act like you don't remember."

"Remember what?"

"Oh. You're going to play like that, huh? Okay. Just give me a second. I'll teach you to play games with me."

I watched her tight body crawl off the bed as she disappeared into the bathroom. She was gone for several minutes. When she came back, she had a harness on with a purple dildo connected to it. The dildo was long and firm. Half of its length was already inside of her. The other half was destined to be drilled into my depths until I probably couldn't see straight.

I watched as she stalked closer towards me, her smile growing even more malicious.

"Happy anniversary, my love."

Her voice was like a warm ray of sunshine. In all my life, I never knew that someone could make me feel this way. I thought I loved Raphael. I thought I loved Jake. I might've but the feelings that I feel for this woman far eclipses the other two.

"Happy anniversary, Makenna."

Makenna and I have been married for two years, today. For our anniversary, she said that she wanted me all to herself. She hinted that she'd fuck my brains out as soon as I woke up. I guess she wasn't kidding.

I watched, helpless, as she climbed on top of me. "Are you ready, baby?" Her knees straddled my head as she took the end of that dildo and forced it into my throat. She wasn't gentle. That was okay. I was promised a thorough fucking and that's what I wanted.

She pressed down so deeply until the harness touched my face. Once it did, she rode my face hard, letting her little clit rub on the top of my stretched-out lip.

When she pulled back, I had to fight the urge to vomit. The dildo came out covered in spit and I could tell by the look of lust on her face that my own face was a spit covered mess.

"That's it you fucking slut. Take this cock one more time like a good little bitch. When you do, I promise that I'll fuck that little pussy until it breaks!" She took my face once more and jammed the dildo in with even more force than before.

I was practically suffocated by it. This rough treatment made my pussy drip.

"Oh fuck!"

I screamed at the top of my lungs. My throat was raw from all of the moaning and crying she made me do. Makenna didn't lie. She fucked me until I was in tears. I couldn't take anymore. My body was well beyond its limit but my mind still wanted more.

"My ass. Please fuck my ass!"

She had been fucking me for over an hour straight. I'd cum so many times that I lost count. She didn't just use the dildo. She had individual bullet vibrators taped to my nipples and my clit. I couldn't stop cumming even if she didn't touch me. I'd never had a forced orgasm before. It was fucking incredible.

When she heard me beg for her to fuck my ass, she turned me over and slapped me hard.

"That's my little bitch slut. Spread that phat ass for me so I can give it a good licking."

She ate my ass and I came again and again. Then she buried that dildo in me and fucked me hard for another 30-minutes. By the end, she left me strapped to the bed by my wrists, the vibrators still going. My ass was in the air—a true mess had been made out of my ass and my pussy. I was drooling and I couldn't see through the tears that didn't stop running. Because the vibrators were still on and she kept smacking my ass with the dripping dildo, I came a few more times before she released me.

I was too exhausted to move or speak. My mind had been broken by her. I babbled nonsense for a few minutes, maybe an hour. By the time I came to, it was already the afternoon. I don't remember passing out but I clearly did.

When I awoke, my body had been washed clean. Every nook and cranny had been taken care of. I found Makenna sitting on the floor at the end of the bed, facing my direction. She was lotus position and her eyes were partially closed. When my eyes fell on her, her eyes opened slowly and she smiled. She'd been meditating and I found it incredibly sexy.

"You're finally awake. Good. Let's go get you some breakfast."

She pushed herself up before coming over to kiss me. I watched her walk away in awe. She was so amazing and strong.

After what happened in the past, I thought that she'd take years, maybe decades to get her shit together. It wasn't so. When she said that she was ready to change, she meant that shit. She took steady steps towards recovery and it showed. She was in one piece. She was no longer controlled by her demons. She was marvelous.

When she first got out of the hospital, she stayed with me for a year before we got married. It's been 3-years. Wow. Where does the time go?

After my shower, I found Makenna in the kitchen. She had on a white ribbed tank top that was slightly torn in the front and a matching pair of white cotton panties. A pair of white knee-length socks brought together the entire ensemble. She looked like a naughty school girl that was in the middle of getting dressed. I couldn't keep my hands off of her.

I sneaked up behind her, and wrapped my arms around her back, fondling her shapely breasts.

"Hey, sailor! What took you so long?"

I pulled down her panties and pushed her over the counter before falling to my knees and spreading her cheeks. "Sorry. I wanted to shower but it looks like I was premature because things are about to get dirty down here."

"Mmmm! I love it. Take me anyway that you want."

And I did. I fucked her in that kitchen using my tongue, my fingers and even my fist. I fucked her until she came three times. By the time we were done, neither of us remembered why we were in the kitchen in the first place.

We were spent and were resting on the floor when I heard the door open.

A few seconds later, we both heard a startled cry. "Ah! Shit! You two scared the crap out of me."

Standing next to the kitchen island was a pretty young woman with long highlighted brown hair. She was dressed in casual business attire. She looked calm and composed. She was a far cry away from that same woman I coerced all those years back in that crappy diner where she worked. She was no longer selling her body to make ends meet. She was taken care of and it showed.

Sylvia looked at us both, while we continued lying on the floor, covered in our post coital glow.

"Will you two put some clothes on already. Amara, we have a meeting with the mayor at 3 and a luncheon that you must make an appearance at around 2. Time is already tight. Come on. I know it's your anniversary but we talked about this. We have to go. I promise to have you back home by 5, but we've got to go now."

Sylvia offered no room for arguments. Neither Makenna nor myself thought it wise to argue with her.

When I first recruited Sylvia, I positioned her at Jake's office as my personal spy. She'd watch and report between her temp duties. That was all I wanted her for. After she saved my life and I broke things off with Jake, I quickly realized that she was actually pretty good at this whole office/secretarial stuff. I put her in charge of my social schedule because clout like mine didn't manage itself. It needed someone who cared for it tenderly. Sylvia was that person.

I no longer treated her like an employee. I no longer acted like I was superior to her. I saw her as a friend. A real, actual, friend. It was great but she could be a little pushy.

Sighing, I pushed myself up and went back into the shower.

I was ready to go in under 30-minutes thanks to Sylvia constant badgering.

Before I walked out the door, I stopped to kiss my wife. "I'll be home by 5."

"You better be. I don't have to work today so you get back as soon as possible. Okay, baby?"

"Promise."

I kissed her once more, my heart and mind calm and filled with affection. I followed Sylvia towards the elevator and waved goodbye to my wife while the elevator door shut. The sun was high in the sky and its rays fell on Makenna, wrapping her in a halo.

She was so beautiful. We were both flawed. We were both tortured. We were both tainted by our pasts.

But we found each other and together we built something that mattered. It was something that I'd never let go of as long as I lived.

As the elevator door closed and she smiled at me, I told her something that came from the bottom of my heart.

"I love you."
Chapter 6

Toni Digossi

Something strange was going on. I couldn't exactly put my finger on it, but it had something to do with Jacob, Rachel and Ginger. Because what other reason would they lock themselves in Jacob's office and not come out until well past lunch time?

When Sarah asked me about my feelings for Jacob, I couldn't lie to her and tell her that I didn't feel anything. I did. I do. It's just that I realized that despite how much I wanted it, Jacob would never see me as his only love. I knew myself well enough to know that I'd never be okay being second place...or the first loser—however, you want to call it. I needed to be the first person in someone's heart and while it broke my heart to see him happy with Rachel and with Sarah, I didn't interfere at all.

I've known for months that Jacob and Sarah had been intimate. I didn't catch them or anything and Sarah's never gushed about it do to our own friendship. Nevertheless, I knew. I had mixed feelings about it but there was nothing that I could do. They were adults and although he was technically cheating on my sister, I'm the very last person who has any right to say anything about that.

"It's all my fault." I was at my apartment, trying to drown my sorrows in a fifth of whiskey.

"It's okay, kiddo."

"Yeah, Toni. Don't be so down on yourself."

I wasn't alone. My two best friends, Tonya and Sofí came to see me. They instinctively knew that I had a bad day and rushed over to spend time with me. I love these girls. They really are the best.

Tonya's accent made her sound brusque but I knew that she meant her words as a comfort to me. Sofí tried her best to be sensitive and despite her crass personality, she was a very considerate and patient friend. I needed both of them to help me come to grips with what I've done.

"You know, when I first seduced him, I sold it to him as a way to become a bad boy. I told him that my sister didn't want him because he was too busy trying to play the good guy all the time. It was a hard sell but it worked. I got what I wanted. Unfortunately, I was too damn effective."

"Toni, it's not your fault."

"Well...I kinda is her fault."

"Sofí!"

"What? I'm just saying that she did go after a married man. Not just any married man—her sister's husband. There was bound to be some sort of karmic retribution."

One was sweet. One was sour. I needed them both even if they said things that I didn't want to hear. Sofí was right, of course. I knew way back then that it would eventually blow up in my face. I just didn't care. All I saw was a chance to nail the man that I've been in love with since my late teens. I didn't care about my sister's feelings. I didn't care about his feelings. I didn't care if the world burned as long as I could have him.

But now, all of that seems like it was a huge mistake. But like anything in your past, it's too late to do anything to change it. I had to find a way to move on, despite my conflicted emotions.

"Have you given any thought to telling him that you know about the other girl?"

I shook my head. "Why would it matter? What's done is done and even if I did, I'd just look like a hypocrite."

"Well, maybe you could tell your sister."

"Again...hypocrite."

"So, what do you want to do?"

I sat there quietly for a few minutes. I was deep in thought while the whiskey set fire to my chest. "I want to run away with him. But that's not going to happen."

"Listen, kiddo. To me, men are just there for companionship and sex. I've never met a man that I've fallen for so hard that I'd want to ruin the rest of my life for him. You have. You were willing to betray your own blood for this man. Honestly, Sofí might be right, and you might've asked for this but who cares? Life is very short and all that we can do is try and put ourselves in the best position to thrive. Would you thrive if you had him? Or would you wilt? This thing that you have, you may call it love, but it seems more like it is an obsession. Those aren't healthy at all. I think it's better if you keep your distance for a little while."

She had a good point. It would be better if I stayed away. The only problem was that I worked with him plus, "I'm having dinner with him and my sister tonight. I can't avoid him even if I wanted to."

"I see. Well, kiddo, maybe now is not the time to talk about this. But please, think about what we said. Take care of you, even if it causes you a little heartache at the beginning or the end. I'm not telling you that you should chase after the guy and obviously, we'll support you if you do. But...make sure that you've thought through your actions. Don't be rash for the sake of being rash or for the sake of your heart. Try listening to your head once in a while."

She was right. They both were. I nodded and then excused myself. I had to be at their place in 40-minutes and I desperately needed a shower. When I climbed out of the shower, Tonya and Sofí had already left. They left a note on the table, cheering me on and made me swear to call them once I got back.

***

"Ginger is pregnant. Jake is the father."

The words that she was speaking might've been English. Regardless, I couldn't seem to figure out what she said. It didn't make any sense.

I was invited to Rachel and Jacob's house for dinner. Before we even ate, Rachel sat me down, with Jacob and Ginger right beside her and told me the most nonsensical thing that I've ever heard her say. How could he be the father of Ginger's baby? How could Rachel be so calm about it. Why didn't he tell me? What the hell was going on?

I was silent for a while as I let all of this sink in. When I looked up, my eyes automatically fell on Jacob. He looked torn. When I glanced at the other two, Rachel looked dejected while Ginger just looked awkward. It took everything in me not to scream. What was happening?

I couldn't stop the tears from pooling in my eyes. If what she said was right, the man that I loved, her husband, was going to have a child with her friend and she was...what...okay with that? What kind of twisted life were they living? If I'd known she'd be so cool with him being another girl's baby daddy, I would've locked it down months ago!

I struggled not to let the tears fall. My voice was calm but my heart was turbulent.

"Explain. Right now. Explain everything to me."

And she did. She spoke about her guilt. She talked about Ginger's crush. She talked about Jacob's reluctance. She explained how out of her mind she was when she found out. She mentioned Ginger's parents and how they reacted to the news. She detailed their future plans.

It was all too much. I knew that Jacob had been weird lately. But even in my wildest of imaginings, I couldn't have foreseen this. This was just too...too...fucked up!

"I'm going to fucking waste you, you son of a bitch." I was shaking. I was angry. I was hurt and I felt betrayed. I wanted to direct this toxic collaboration towards someone. I'd die if it stayed in my heart for too long. Jacob was the perfect target.

I launched myself at him. I dove, over the table, unafraid of his bulky physique or the two women that looked at me like I'd lost my mind. Maybe I had. Or maybe, I was the only sane person in the room. Jacob was going to be a daddy and it wasn't through his wife or even someone that he loved. It was through some random bitch that he screwed once. Once! How infuriating is that? What are the goddamned odds? We've had sex countless times and I never once got so lucky. The selfish jackass probably planned it this way.

Yes. I know that I'm being ridiculous, but I was angry and I didn't care. Like I said, I needed to direct my toxic feelings somewhere and he was the perfect destination.

I made it over the table in record form and started swinging for the fences. Rachel screamed my name at the top of her lungs but I didn't care. I didn't stop. I was beating down on this man whether she liked it or not. Ginger jumped up and rushed at me, trying to pull me off.

"Stop!"

Jacob's voice was loud and domineering. It caused the two girls besides me to stop in their tracks. His eyes were calm but his gaze was guilt-ridden. I could see it in his eyes. He wanted this. He felt like he should be punished.

I wanted to wail on him until he was black and blue and sure, I got a few good hits in but that was only because he let me.

I could see him, as he clenched his jaw every time my fists came down. His eyes never left mine. They were filled with so much pain and sadness that it was impossible for me not to feel his pain and fear—his desperation.

"You fucking cheater! I hate you! Do you hear me? I fucking hate you, Jacob! Die! Die! Die!" I'd lost it. I only hit him 3...maybe 4 times before I collapsed on his chest. I was in tears. I was bawling. What I thought would be a cathartic release was anything but. Hitting him and blaming him didn't make me feel better. It made me feel so much worse. When I saw that look of desperation in his eyes and the willingness to be punished, it shattered the last bit of resistance that I held on to.

He let me wail on him and didn't try to stop me. Honestly, he probably would've let me continue to beat on him until he was black and blue.

My voice was muffled, as I pressed my face into his chest. "I hate you, Jacob. You're the worst. You're nothing but a dirty cheater. Cheater! Liar! I hate you!"

He didn't try to hold me. He didn't try to defend himself. He took the full weight of my pain and my rage and didn't try to mitigate his responsibility.

A few seconds later, I felt two strong hands on my shoulders, it was Rachel.

"Toni, please. Let Jake go. He's not to blame for this. I am."

I shook her arms off of me and climbed off of Jacob's lap. I needed more than anything to be consoled but not by her. I needed him to console me, but I knew he wouldn't. He has already decided to martyr himself to help me deal with my feelings. Knowing Jacob, he wouldn't allow himself to send such mixed messages.

"I think you're all fucking crazy. You think this is going to work? Huh? You really think you're going to be able to raise a child that's not yours? I know you, Rachel. You're too fucking selfish for that. I don't care if it's Jacob and Ginger's baby. You're not going to be able to stand seeing him dote on a child that's not yours. And you...you really think that my sister is going to treat you like part of the family? Don't fucking count on it. And you...you fucking cheater...I hope you rot in Hell you piece of shit!"

After saying my piece, I stormed out. I couldn't look at any of them for a second longer. If I did, I'd likely vomit.

I didn't go home that night. I needed a distraction. I ended up in a bar. I got drunk and went home with a guy. I don't remember his name. I can hardly remember his face. We had a short bout of sex but it was nothing worth mentioning. It was over soon after it started and I left after pulling my jeans back on.

I felt lost. I felt like the whole world had turned on me.

Somehow, I found myself in a gated apartment community. My blank mind and broken heart pulled me towards my destination. I rang the buzzer and was let in almost immediately. I climbed the stairs and waited while the door opened.

When our eyes met, I burst into tears. Instantly, I was enveloped by the exact warmth and comfort that my heart desperately needed. This only made me cry even harder.

I was pulled into the apartment and wrapped in a warm blanket before I was smothered by sweet and caring words. I looked into the pair of hazel eyes as they stared at me in worry.

"What happened, honey?" Sarah's voice was like a balm to my heart but it couldn't take away my pain.

"It's over. Everything is over, now." I cried that night, nonstop. Sarah took me into her room and after removing my clothes, she lied next to me and held me. At some point, I must've fallen asleep. I was tricked into dreamland by my mental and physical exhaustion, emotional heart break and the sweet and caring protection of my dear friend.

***

The next morning, I awoke feeling a little drained and confused. I woke up in a room that wasn't my own and didn't quite remember how I got there. Unfortunately, the moment I sat up, all the memories came flooding back, as too did the pain.

I clenched over, holding my stomach, trying not to retch. At that moment, Sarah walked in holding a cup of herbal tea, her pink pajama short set looking adorable on her.

"Morning, honey. Drink this. We need to talk."

Sarah didn't try to comfort me. She did more than enough last night. She left me to my own devices as she went out in the living room to wait for me to emerge.

Her couch was comfortable and felt really nice against my back.

Sarah sat next to me, sipping on a cup of coffee. She looked a little tired herself. Even her eyes were a little swollen. I didn't notice last night because I was too busy feeling sorry for myself.

"What's wrong, Sarah?" After seeing her like this, my own feelings were pushed aside. Sarah was the sweetest person I knew. If someone hurt her, I swear I will bury them in the dirt.

She sighed and then smiled self-deprecatingly, "I'm pretty sure it's the same thing that happened to you."

I froze. "He told you?"

She nodded, "Yeah. Friday night, after work."

We looked at each other for a moment before both of our eyes wandered. We both knew the same thing and were dealing with it in different ways. My way was a little more destructive than Sarah's. Sarah quietly absorbed her pain and hid herself away in her apartment, crying all alone.

"What did you do?"

She snorted, "I slapped him in the face after cursing at him for about 20-minutes straight. Then I walked out. I've been here, crying, ever since. You?"

I laughed ruefully, "I punched him in the face a few times. I told him, Rachel and Ginger off and then I left."

We both smiled. Our reactions were pretty much the same.

She muttered, "Good."

I nodded, "Yeah, good."

"He deserved it."

"He deserves a lot worse."

We didn't talk much after that. What was there to say? The man that we both loved was going to have a baby by someone that we don't even know all that well. Honestly, I think if it were Rachel or one of us, then we wouldn't be this distraught. I mean sure, it would suck but at least it would be understandable. But now, some 24-year old slut shows up and after one time in the sack she ends up pregnant? What kind of bullshit is this?

We spent half of the day together, but there was very little talking. We just sat there, slowly drinking cup after cup of coffee and tea. We stared out over the balcony. Neither of us cried. Neither of us complained. We just let the feelings roll over us as the sun slowly moved throughout the sky.

It wasn't peaceful. It was too broken to be that. But at least I wasn't alone. That had to count for something.

The next morning, I went to work, ignored the 20 or so texts from Rachel, ignored the fuck out of Jacob, did my job and then went home. The next day was the same. The day after that and the day after that was the same. In this way, a couple of months had passed. I was so preoccupied with avoiding my feelings that I didn't really notice the changes around me.

At some point, Sarah had crawled out of her funk and was back to her normal self. She tried getting me to go out with her a few times but I always declined. Even Sofí and Tonya couldn't get me to go out with them. Of course, after they found out about the pregnancy, they understood but that didn't mean they'd blindly allow me to wallow in my pain. Even though I wouldn't go out, they would come by every now and then. Both of them brought their own brand of levity and compassion. Somehow, after that time, something changed in me. It was like a missing piece clicked into place. I wasn't all healed or anything. I was just...altered.

"Jacob? A word, please." I've actively avoided him for months. The only time we'd speak was when it had something to do with work. I was always professional but I was cold. He was always sensitive and composed. I could tell that he wanted to reach out to me, but he knew that I wasn't ready.

"What's up, Toni?"

"I'm having some small remodeling done at my apartment over the weekend. Would it be okay if I crashed at your place for a couple of days?" It was like chewing rocks when I had to ask him. Neither Tonya nor Sofí was available. Even Sarah had something going on. I was sure that if I pushed it, they'd make room for me, but I didn't want to be an ungrateful friend. My last resort, before just getting a hotel (which didn't seem like a bad idea, now that I think about it) was to see if he had any issue with it.

His confusion showed on his face but he readily agreed. "Sure. I'm flying out of town this weekend anyway. You'll have the place all to yourself."

"Okay. Thanks."

"Mhm. No problem." I could tell that he wanted to say more but I couldn't stand being so close to him. The fact that he was leaving was the main reason that I asked. Despite, my relationship with Jacob going into the deep freeze, Rachel and I were on good terms. She told me that Jacob was planning to visit her and Ginger this weekend. It was perfect. I wouldn't have to pay for a hotel and I wouldn't have to see Jacob either.

I walked away before he could say whatever he was thinking.

Look, buddy. I'm borrowing your place. That's all. We're not friends anymore so you can stop it with the puppy dog look. Okay?

I waited until it was late on Friday night before I headed over to his house. I got there around 8. The place was totally dark. I hadn't been here since the day I found out about the baby, but when I walked in, the familiar scents and sights took me back.

It was at this entrance that he first kissed me goodbye after our first time together. I remember giving him my virginity and him totally taking advantage of it. I was sore for days but it was more than worth it.

I kept exploring.

In this kitchen, I gave him head the very next morning while Rachel sent him a flurry of texts and calls after she realized she was busted.

In this hot tub, I made him take me as the sun was setting. We watched the sun setting while he had me bent over the edge. We were both exposed so his neighbors could've seen if they were so inclined.

Right there, on the edge of the pool, I buried his face underneath the water as I made him lick my pussy from underneath the water's edge.

It seemed like every place in this house was somehow tied to my previous relationship with Jacob. It was special to me. This was my holy land. This was my Hell. In this place, I loved him more fiercely than I've ever loved anyone. And in this place, he's hurt me more than anyone.

I abandoned the first floor and moved up to the second. I placed my bags on the bed in my bedroom before continuing.

I stood at the end of the hallway. A part of me wanted to step over this final edge, but I didn't. I couldn't. If I did it would just be too painful. I wasn't ready so I turned around and walked back down the hall disappearing into the bathroom.

I showered for what seemed like hours. I tried to clear my head but I was in the very worst place possible to achieve a clear mind. For months, he's been on my mind. Now I was in his home, alone. I shouldn't have come. I know, but that knowledge didn't stop me. My feelings for Jacob had long since surpassed the point of no return. There was no going back for me and that was part of the reason why him having a baby with Ginger stung as deeply as it did.

Why couldn't it have been me?

The shower only left me thinking more about him. With the towel still wrapped around me, I approached the end of the hallway once more. This time, I stepped over the threshold. His bedroom was how I remembered it. Everything about it reminded me of our time together. My heart hurt. I couldn't stop myself from crying and I didn't try. There was no one around so I allowed my feelings to show without the need of a censor.

I didn't bawl but I did allow the fresh feelings to overwhelm me as I fell on his bed. His scent was still on the sheets. It was both a comfort and a deep wound. I could practically feel his body heat radiating from underneath. Even my Jacob-Finder 2000 was going nuts.

In this place, I was stricken with the worst love sickness that one could have. I was driven insane by my desire for him and the added stimulus was more than my broken mind could control.

I pulled his covers over my body so that I was wrapped in his scent. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath.

"Ah! He smells so nice. I love this smell more than anything in the world."

He was right there with me.

You're beautiful, Toni.

I smiled as I imagined his deep voice. It flooded over me like a wave. My body instantly grew warm.

I love you, Toni.

He kissed my neck and my ear. He nibbled my flesh. He contorted my body.

Let me give you a child. My child.

My fingers were between my legs before I could think about it. It wasn't enough. It wasn't nearly enough. But I couldn't stop myself. His voice in my mind and the smell of his flesh filled my senses. I wanted him so much every day that I thought I would explode. When I saw him at work, although I always stayed a certain distance away, it was those times that helped me endure these months of pain.

I know that time makes the pain less. At least, that's how it has been with previous boyfriends. After a couple weeks, a month top, I'd be over them. However, with Jacob the feelings only seemed to intensify as I spent time away from him. They didn't decrease at all. It was getting to the point where I was starting to imagine things.

For instance...

I opened my eyes to find him standing at the end of the bed. His arms were hanging at his sides as he looked at me in confusion.

"Toni? What are you doing?" His voice was dark and deep. There was a hint of sexiness and strength in that voice, just like it always was when he spoke to me.

I smiled. Even my own mind was telling me that I was going insane—conjuring such a complete image of him while I was still awake. Whatever. If this was a daydream, it was the perfect daydream. I smiled wryly at my own conjured image of Jacob.

He was so beautiful. The tight jeans that he wore didn't hide a thing from my eyes. I could make out the decently sized bulge in front and I knew that if I turned him around, I'd see an absolutely glorious ass. The muscles in his shoulders, chest and arms were prominently displayed in his fitted woven long-sleeved shirt. He was freshly shaven so there was no stubble on his handsome face. He looked good enough to eat.

After silently appreciated his beauty, I smiled at my own creation. I slowly exposed myself to the specter. My fingers were rubbing my clit, slowly savoring the sight before me.

"Want to see, baby? I'm just here, thinking about you like always." My fingers dove into my depths and I winced. "I'm always thinking of you. I'm always wanting you. I love you, Jacob. I always will."

The specter's eyes grew large and it took a half-step backwards. "T-Toni?! What...why?!"

I smiled again at my own creation. Silly little me. Even in my own mind, I want him to play hard to get. I'm such a little tease.

"What do you mean, why? Isn't it obvious? It's you. It's always been you and no one else. Do you think that someone else can make me debase myself like this? Do you think that someone else can make me betray my own sister? Do you think someone else is good enough for me? I don't. It's you and only you. But..." Even in my own mind, Jacob had to listen to my complaints first. "But why wasn't it me? Don't you know that I would've given anything to you? My body and heart were already yours. So, what's the big deal if you give me a child? Huh? Instead, you didn't even think about me. It's like I've never been important to you. Even now, I'm desperately clinging to you in my mind. You're not even real. You're just a figment of my twisted imagination. Despite that, I will take every opportunity to be with you. Even if you came running right now, I'd drop everything to be with you. I'd betray the gods if it meant that I could have you. I'd kill Fate if I had to. There is no one that loves you stronger than me. Not Rachel. Not Sarah. Definitely not Ginger. Me!"

My tears fell unceasingly. Through that process the conjured image blurred. I sighed as I thought, "Ah. I guess this is the end of the line." I closed my eyes as I allowed his scent to envelope me instead.

Creak.

A sudden depression at the end of the bed caused me to open my eyes with a jolt. I pushed myself upright only to find the same conjured image from before looking at me with pity in his eyes.

No. No. No. No. No! This can't be. It can't!

"J-J-Jacob?" My heart was thumping. I'd forgotten about the scent and the warmth. I was simply too shocked.

"It's really me, Toni."

My body was shaking as I reached out. My trembling fingers gently touched his face. I'd know this feeling anywhere. It really was him. "H-how? How are you here? You're supposed to be gone."

"Snow storm. They canceled my flight. I tried to text you but you didn't respond."

I didn't know what to say. What was even left to say? I'd emptied my heart to what I thought was a conjured existence. Instead, I'd been caught by the very person that I desired while naked and masturbating in his bed. There isn't a rock heavy enough or a chasm deep enough to hide the shame that I felt.

"What you said." I looked up at him, too embarrassed to really look into his eyes. "What you said about loving me. I feel the same about you. I can't say that my feelings are as strong as yours. That's impossible to confirm. But I can say that you mean the world to me. I know that I hurt you and I'm so sorry. It really was an accident. No one thought it would happen but it did. If I had it to do over again, of course I would love to have you be the mother of my child. You'd make a wonderful mother Toni and I should be so lucky." His fingers touched my face as he gazed deeply into my eyes. I saw an ocean of stars in his dark eyes and I fell in love with him all over again in that moment.

I felt a crack form in my psyche. It formed several thin lines across my mind as my pain tried to keep it at bay but it was too vigorous and unwieldy. The final cracks formed and my mind shattered.

If I had been living in a shadowed world for the last two months, this was like the sun finally breaking through the clouds. Everything was clear. Everything was in order.

I could see what truly mattered and what mattered was this man before me.

Before I could speak, he kissed me.

It wasn't passionate but it was sweet. In that simple kiss I felt the months of hidden pain that he's endured since I pushed him away. In that simple kiss I felt change and resolution. In that moment, I felt a future.

"I love you, Toni. Please believe me. I don't know if I can give you everything that you deserve in the future but I will try to make you happy. If I can't do that as a lover then I'll do that as a friend. You have my word."

I was putty under his touch. I was under his control and I didn't mind. I helped him remove his clothes. I guided his swollen cock into my wet depths. I squeezed him tightly as my ankles crossed and my legs held him in place.

It has been so long since I've felt him inside of me. It's been so long since we've been this close. I drank him in and didn't let him go until I felt the hot streams slam into my depths. Even then, I was reluctant to release him. I held him close and kissed him continuously. I was hungry for love and wanted to get my share from him. He never pushed me away. We lied there, tied together in the most intimate way.

It's not a lie to say that I felt complete in that moment. I loved this man, but more than that, he was my future. One way or another, I'd have him for the rest of my life—even if I had to lie, cheat and steal. I'd have him.

It was later in the night. He held me in his arms, his nose pressed firmly into my hair as he breathed deeply.

"Are you going to ask?" My voice broke the silence that had fallen.

"Ask? About what?"

"Never mind. I just figured you'd have some questions for me."

"Honestly? I do have one question but I think it's a little awkward."

"More awkward than catching me naked, masturbating in your bed."

"Fair point. Umm...earlier, you mentioned Sarah. Do you...umm...do you know?"

I smiled but it wasn't a joyful expression. "It's funny how you think you can hide things for me. I've known for months."

I felt him freeze. "But you two...you're friends, right? Why are you so nice to her if you know?"

"It's complicated but what it boils down to is that we have an agreement. Despite our desire for you, we agreed not to let it ruin our friendship."

"Really? And that works for you?"

"So far. Why? Would you prefer us to have a cat fight?"

"No! Not at all. It's just...surprising I guess."

"Well, that's what it is. By the way...I heard that she slapped you."

He chuckled. "Is that what she called it? A slap?"

I nodded. "Yeah. Why?"

"Well if she slapped me then all you did when you found out was tickle me."

"Seriously?" I remembered pouncing on him. I was out of my mind and I punched him several times as hard as I could. If my reaction could be downgraded to just a tickle by comparison, just what the hell did Sarah do? I suddenly felt chills. Something told me that I should never, by any means, ever piss Sarah off. If I did, I might need God and the Marines to personally come and rescue me.

We continued talking for a couple of hours about the last couple of months. He told me about him looking for a new place. I was sad because this place held so many memories for me but I got it. He was about to have a family and with an extra adult being around, he didn't have enough space.

I offered to help him find a new place. He was grateful and accepted without any reluctance. I smiled. This way, I could make sure that I found a place that worked for me, too. Maybe a place where my child could grow up as soon as he gave me one and believe me, he was going to give me a child as soon as humanly possible.

I used to think that I had been tainted by my love for him. I guess in a way, you can say that I have been. Regardless, it was a mark that I would proudly wear. This tainted love is nothing more than a badge of honor. He is mine and I am his. Tainted or not, we are one.
Chapter 7

Rachel Aspen

Life isn't so bad. I know, it's strange to hear me say that considering everything that happened. But it's true. I don't have it that bad.

"Heurk! Heurk!... Oh my God. Just kill me now!"

I was minding my own business, enjoying my morning cup of coffee when I heard her desperate cry come from the bathroom.

Like I said, I don't have it that bad.

After several minutes, Ginger appeared. Her face was pale and her hair was a mess. She looked pretty damn miserable. She plopped down on the chair opposite me and looked at her bowl of oatmeal in disdain. "Morning sickness is a real bitch!"

I smiled maliciously. "What did you expect? It's not all roses and chocolate. Your body is cooking a little human. It ain't going to be simple."

"I know but the girl I met in the doctor's office said that she doesn't have any of this. She's in her 3rd trimester and she said that it's been smooth sailing. Who did I piss off to get the worst morning sickness in existence?"

"I don't believe it's the worst in existence." That little quip earned me a rather malicious glare from our resident prego.

Ginger wasn't that far along. She was showing but only slightly. You'd tell if she was in a bikini but otherwise you'd have no idea she was pregnant. Of course, not everyone had the front row seat that I had. Mood swings—check! Strange cravings—check! Neediness—check! Aches and pains all over—check! She was basically a cliché of pregnancy problems.

Still, she was my best friend and like it or not, Jake and I will have to deal with her for the rest of my life. Hmm. It wasn't so bad. I liked Ginger.

"Why are you looking at me like that?"

"Like what?"

"I don't know. Like you want to say something."

"I don't know what you're talking about. If I have something to say then I'll just say it."

"Sure. Whatever."

Okay...sometimes I liked Ginger a little less than other times. To avoid clashing with her and her rotten mood and getting into a pointless fight, I decided to go shower and get ready for work. Today was the day that I'd be announcing my departure to my staff. It was also the day that we'd be promoting the previous shift manager, Monica, into the position as the acting branch manager. Monica wasn't a standout but she was honest, knowledgeable and a hard worker. People respected and trusted her. After peeling off the dead weight that existed when I first arrived, the atmosphere improved by leaps and bounds. Monica had been keeping people together as best as she could but she lacked the power to really make the necessary changes.

Originally, corporate was going to hire outside the company for a new branch manager. However, I fought hard to get them to offer the position in-house. Specifically, I wanted Monica to succeed me. She had been my right hand since I moved over and I couldn't say enough good things about her. Just because I was leaving didn't mean I didn't want to take care of her. I did. Monica was at least 10-years my senior and has always been appreciated less than her due. I couldn't stand it.

Luckily, my pleas didn't fall on deaf ears. After a few months of talking her up with examples, the big wigs finally agreed. Monica was ecstatic. I was happy for her.

Other than Monica, there wasn't really anyone else at work that I was even a little close to. I was the boss so I was kept at an arm's length. I got that and it didn't bother me. I didn't come here to make friends so whatever.

Anyway, after the dual announcements, people are really happy for Monica. Some suggested that she should've been promoted years ago. Of course, these people also didn't support her when the 3 stooges were running around making everyone's life a living hell. The only one that stood up to them was Monica so all these other people offering their empty congratulations was a little stomach churning.

When I arrived back home, a hot dinner was waiting for me with flowers and even an apology card. It was from Ginger.

I'm sorry that I'm such a mess right now. I hope you know that I love you so much. You're my best friend. You're my hero. I can't always control my mouth but you put up with me anyway. Thank you. I'm going to head to my own room tonight. Enjoy dinner.

Ginger

I smiled at the handwritten note. She was so sweet. After a hard day, having something so thoughtful appear right before me really made a world of difference.

I was tempted to go downstairs to see her. I didn't. I knew that just as she suggested that I needed my own space, I was certain that she did, too. She was going through a lot right now. It would be ungrateful of me not to honor her attempt to mend fences.

I enjoyed my dinner in sweet silence that night. After a short shower and a long soak in the tub, I called Jake and we talked about a few little things.

I awoke the following morning feeling refreshed. That night alone was just what the doctor ordered.

Are you still avoiding Jake?

Toni and I had a pretty strained relationship ever since she found out about the affair. We've made some headway getting back to where we were, but there always seemed to be a wall between us. Still, she was my little sister. I wanted things to be better. Over the years we've gotten closer.

No. We made up. I'm still mad though.

How many times do I have to tell you? It wasn't his fault. I literally forced them together. I might as well have had a gun against his head.

I know. I know. We don't need to talk about it anymore.

So, you're over it.

Sure.

Whatever.

LOL. Anyway...I think I found the perfect place.

Oh yeah? Are you moving?

...Jacob didn't tell you?

Tell me what?

I'm helping him look for a new house.

Oh God! You. Are. Not!

LOL! Oh yes I am! It's going to be perfect!

Toni! No one can afford your taste. Don't have us bite off more than we can chew.

Oh my. Where's the trust? I know you guys aren't rich but money's not really a problem either.

Says the girl that doesn't have to pay the bills.

Oh, shut up. I'm still paying off student loans. You guys have already paid yours off, Mrs. Moneybags!

Whatever. So, what are you thinking?

It's not too far from your current place. It's bigger though by just a bit.

How much is a bit?

Hehe!

You stupid bitch!

LOL! You love me. Admit it.

Fine. I love you lots Toni-bear!

Argh! Don't call me that! It's so embarrassing!

LOL!

Anyway, I've done all the prep work. I'm going to show it to Jacob this weekend. You should fly out and take a look.

Yeah. Because it's so easy to just hop a plane...

Do or don't. Don't blame me if he buys it and you hate it.

He won't buy it without my input.

Please. Jacob never denies me anything. I have that man wrapped around my finger.

Oh really? Want to make a bet?

Sure. If I win you half to give him to me for one day.

Okay. When I win, you'll have to sell your Tesla and use the funds to invest in some junk stocks.

Aw man! That's cold. Okay. I don't want to bet. You win. YOU WIN!!!!

LOL. Anyway, sure. I'll come out this weekend. Should I bring Ginger?

I don't care.

You don't like her, huh?

...

???

It's complicated. I know she's not a bad person.

She's not. Besides she's more screwed in this than anyone else. It's practically caused her to lose her family.

So, her parents still aren't talking to her?

No. Her brothers were upset but didn't hold a grudge. So, there's that. But her mom and dad are still acting like she doesn't exist.

That's cold.

Agreed.

Yeah. Why not bring her. She's going to be living there, too. She should get a vote. But just FYI, my vote is what really counts.

Sure. Sure. Whatever you say Toni-bear.

Ah! I hate that name!!!

LOL!

Toni and I continued texting for about a half hour. This was normally how we spoke. It was easier than talking on the phone. We could start a conversation and continue it throughout the day. We were both busy people so it worked well for us.

There was a knocking on my office door. When I looked up, Monica poked her head in. "Hey Rachel. There is a lady in the lobby here that says she's here to speak to you. She doesn't seem to be a customer."

I put my phone away and stood up. That's odd. I couldn't see the floor from my desk so I followed Monica out. When we arrived, my eyes fell on a stunning woman. She was cultured and refined. She had an icy gaze that made one think that the entire world was beneath her. The stern light in her eyes was intimidating to lesser people but I didn't shy away from it. I wasn't scared of this woman. And I refused to grant her any clemency after how she and her husband had blacklisted their own daughter.

I met her eyes with unwavering strength, "Hello, Mrs. Plades. How may I help you?"

Julia Plades was unruffled by my attitude. She nodded politely and asked to speak to me in private. I agreed and lead her back to my office.

Once inside, I watched as she gracefully sat down in a chair. She looked around my office. I thought I caught a quick glimpse of disdain in her gaze.

"My husband does better work. Your bank should've hired his company for the construction."

"Is that why you've come? To critique the architecture of my building?"

She placed her purse on the chair next to her. With her hands elegantly crossed on her lap, her eyes fell on mine. I felt like she was trying to look into my mind and read my thoughts. I kept my feelings from my countenance.

"No. I'm here to speak to you about my daughter."

"You mean the daughter that you abandoned?"

She wasn't ruffled. "I'm here to speak about Ginger. How is she doing?"

Was this lady serious? If she's so concerned for her daughter's happiness, she should just call her. Or better yet--go visit her. "She's 2-months pregnant. Her parents have disowned her. She's about to graduate in a few weeks. She's moving to a new state without a prospect of a job. She's scared shitless and just wants her life back. How do you think she's doing?"

She closed her eyes for a moment but didn't show any additional emotion. When they opened, they were still just as cold as they were before. "You, your husband and my daughter made a decision that changed her life for the worse. The consequences are something that you'll need to confront. It is not a parent's job to remove all the thorns from their children's path. This is something she will need to experience. Therefore, I have no intention of trading barbs with you."

"Then why are you here?"

"Like I said, I just want to know how Ginger is doing."

"Call her."

"No."

"Then go visit her."

"No."

"I really don't get you people. She's your only daughter but you treat her like a stranger."

"She's a disappointment."

"Why? Because she didn't follow your master plan for her life?"

"Yes."

Even I was thrown back by her cold affirmation to my attempt to criticize her.

"It's her life."

"That's true. It is her life. Because it is her life, why should we interfere when she decides to step off of the path that has been created for her? She wants to make her own way. Do you expect us to open our doors to an unfilial child who thinks she can do whatever she wants without consequence? Life is not that pretty. She did this to herself. Now she'll need to learn to fly or crash into the ground."

There was no room for discussion. This woman...this woman was insanely cold. Holy shit!

"I'll let Ginger know that you asked about her."

After a moment of silence, she nodded. Without a word, she gathered her things and left.

I watched her walk out without being able to say a thing. In all my years, I never knew that parents like her existed. Who could so easily turn away her own daughter when that daughter was struggling through her first pregnancy? Jesus H. Christ!

When I saw Ginger, I told her that her mother stopped by. She didn't seem affected by it at all. She simply nodded like a dead fish and went back to flipping through TV channels. This mother/daughter pair were a lot alike, even if neither wanted to admit it.

***

"Holy fuck!" We were standing in the middle of a palace. The house was huge. I mean, seriously huge. It had 7 bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths, a finished basement, an office and what looked like a library. In the back yard there was a small building that looked like a pool house but there was no pool. There was also a pole barn even further back on the property.

I looked at Toni. Her chest was puffed out in pride. Jake and Ginger were just as wide eyed as I was. Toni had somehow found a space that belongs out in the country right on the edge of the suburb where we lived. I was afraid to ask but I had to.

"Toni? How much is this place?"

She waved her hand around a few times. "It's not much. Not much at all."

"Okay...so how much?"

"It'll only cost about an extra $2,000 per month compared to your current mortgage. It'll only be an extra $2,750 if you go with a 15-year mortgage."

She was avoiding my question.

"Toni...how much is this going to cost us?"

"Not much. I got a good deal on it. The owner just died and their family couldn't afford the taxes. I swooped in and got them to sell it to me for a bargain."

"What do you mean, you got them to sell it to you?"

We all looked at Toni. She had 3 pairs of eyes on her and didn't even flinch. "Well, I've kinda already gotten approved for the mortgage."

"You? But why would you get a place this big? You can't afford this on your own!"

"Of course not. Jacob's the co-signor."

Jake exploded, "I'm what?!!

Toni threw him a troublesome smile. "Hehe! Didn't you even read the documents that I brought to your office on Tuesday?"

He was shaking. "Are...are you serious? That's what you made me sign?"

She smirked, "Made you sign? What are you talking about? It's not like I forced you. I just said I had some things for you to sign and you took your merry little ass and signed all the forms without blinking."

"Yeah...but...but..." His shoulders slumped, "What did I do?"

Toni laughed as she rubbed his back with a bit more glee than was necessary. "It's fine. It's fine! Come on. Let's look around our new place."

Three voices spoke in harmony, "Our new place?!"

Toni pulled her eye at us, "Duh! Do you really think I wouldn't live in a place where my name is on the mortgage? Don't be silly you three. Come on! Let's look around."

As she skipped down the hallway, we all looked at her with exhaustion.

Ginger was the first to break the silence. "Your sister..."

I shook my head. "She's crazy."

She nodded. "Yeah, but I kind of like her."

I smiled, "Yeah. Me too. Come on you two. Let's go have a look around our new place."

Rooms were divided pretty quickly. Jake and I were in the master suite number 1. Attached through the other side of the palatial bathroom was master suite number 2, which Toni insisted on taking. Across from us, Ginger decided this would be her room. After a few cosmetic changes, we could connect her room to the other room, which would be the nursery.

Ginger wanted to invite her two brothers out to look at the building. If there was contracting work, she'd rather work through them than anyone else. Because not a single one of us had any building or contracting experience, we defaulted to Ginger's suggestion.

Now that we had a family estate, all that was left to do now was a few final touches. Ginger disappeared to make a phone call, when she came back, she said that her brothers were flying out later that day and should be here in about 6 hours. No one knew what to say. I was the only one that knew just how obsessed the brothers were with their little sister. Dropping everything to fly out at a moment's notice was nothing new for me. I'd have to educate Jake and Toni about it before they showed up.

Other than finding out that we owned a palace, the weekend was pretty uneventful. Jake, Ginger and I went to the bank. Ginger and I were added to the mortgage. This helped to reduce the interest rate so our payment dropped by a couple of hundred dollars. We even agreed to the 15-year mortgage instead of the 30-year. With all of our money pooled, we could probably pay off the place in 10-years.

Ginger's brothers showed up and like gang busters, they ran through the property, pointing out issues left and right. The found things that we would've never considered until an issue cropped up after we'd been living there. By then it would've been too late. After moving, doing major repairs would be a huge inconvenience.

What they found didn't save us any money on the mortgage because an agreement had already been made. The sellers wanted to close immediately. We didn't disagree because that would give us more time to work on the repairs that needed to be completed.

We closed after only 2 weeks. At that time, Ginger's brothers came back out and started to demo the place. While they worked, they stayed at our house. Jake had a couple of new roommates for a month. Heh! I'm glad I didn't have to be there.

When everything was said and done, we spent over $120,000 in repairs and upgrades...and that was after we saved a ton in labor and material costs. The brothers went out of their way to make sure that the place where their little sister and niece/nephew will be living in was far and away beyond code and their own specifications.

When I went back to see the place, it seemed like it had been transformed. Other than the space, everything else was new. Our savings were jacked but we could always put some more money aside. I was just happy neither of us had to dip into our retirement accounts.

"So? What do you think? Do I know a good property or what?" Toni was flying high when she saw the new and improved home. She puffed out her chest like she didn't just drag us into a money pit.

Jake and I sighed, knowing that nothing we could say would get her to understand that she did more damage than she helped.

"When do you want to start moving?" Ginger was fresh out of college. At 12-weeks pregnant, she was definitely showing. However, on the upside, her morning sickness was gone and she looked pretty damn adorable with her little baby bump.

"Any time. We can start packing up your stuff from the apartment and get it shipped out here over the next few weeks. Let's plan on the final exodus occurring in a few weeks, maybe a month."

We all agreed to Jake's suggestion. Toni dragged the slightly reluctant Ginger out shopping. Toni was absolutely enamored with the baby growing in her stomach. I guess the animosity she felt was eliminated the closer they got to living together. That was good. I really didn't need the headache that would come from those two bickering with each other non-stop.

After they left, Jake and I continued to tour the house. At some point, we found ourselves in our empty bedroom.

"Our lives are going to be pretty crazy from here on out."

"What? It wasn't crazy enough for you before this?"

I laughed. "No. It was plenty crazy, but now we're not going to have any time to ourselves."

"That's true."

"Yeah." I looked at him over my shoulder. It has been a long time since we've had time to ourselves. I was going to enjoy this moment as much as I could. "How about we christen this new place in our own special way?"

I saw him smirk. "You don't have to ask twice."

I found myself pressed firmly against the wall. Jake's hands were all over my body. I stood still while he ripped my clothes off of my body. His clothes didn't remain on for too much longer, either.

"Brace yourself." As soon as he spoke, I found myself lifted in the air. My thighs were around his neck while my legs dangled over his shoulders.

His face was pressed into my snatch as he gave his all going down on me.

"Holy shit!" The danger of being so high in the air coupled with the exhilaration of the thrill and the pleasure from his lips made me hot all over. "I want it. Take me. Make it yours, baby!"

Our bedroom looked out over the backside of the house. Below, I could see the guesthouse that had been redone from the ground up. There was also a new play set that was standing across from the guesthouse. A small sandpit and what looked like land set aside for a garden made up the mostly empty space. I was shocked by the changes but now wasn't the time to devote any mental power towards it.

Jake had forced my face onto the window. My hands were on the frame, desperately holding me in place. My chest was pressed right against the window. If someone had walked by, I would've looked like I was trying to escape.

Behind me, Jake's hand spread my butt cheek. "I'm not going to be gentle."

He didn't ask—he warned. Hearing his domineering tone made me extra slippery. I felt him slide in and had to bite my lip to stop myself from grunting like an animal.

He took me hard from behind, his body was always pressed against mine. The sex was intense. It was passionate. He took me hard but not rough. I wasn't choked. I wasn't slammed against the wall or the floor. I wasn't contorted into odd and uncomfortable positions. His face was in my hair when he took me from behind. His heavy breathing spoke more loudly than any words he could shout. I could feel how intense the pleasure was for him. I squeezed him even tighter and he moaned like a man who was starving only to just receive his first bite of food.

When he spun me around and pressed me against the wall, my legs went around his waist. He and the wall worked together to hold me in the air as he explored the depths within me. Our foreheads were pressed together as we breathed into each other's faces. My eyes were blurred because I felt so good. His eyes were half-closed as he overexerted himself.

"I love you, Rachel."

His voice was gruff and rushed. He was close. I could feel it. I wanted it so bad.

"I love you, Jake." I kissed his lips and his hips moved faster. All I could hear was the sounds of our breathing, his body slapping against mine and the intimate sounds of him sliding into my wetness.

"Take it, baby. Fill me up." I felt him tense before the moment of explosion.

In such an intense moment. I took a second just to observe myself and the situation.

When Jake and I met in that dive bar back in college, I thought he was arrogant and overbearing. Granted, I was a bit arrogant myself, but I'd never met anyone who didn't bend the knee for me. Jake was different. Not only did he stand erect, he challenged me and called me out on my bullshit. I fell for him that first night, although I didn't know it at the time.

Jake is a good man. He always has been a good man. However, if he was more pragmatic, he might've noticed my distant gaze before I found my way into Alex's bed. In truth, with the way that I was before the affair, there is no way that I would've appreciated the man before me. It took me nearly destroying the bedrock of our marriage to realize how precious he was to me. Now, I'd never forget it.

I'm not a good person. I've never really been a good person. I've always been selfish and apathetic. Losing Jake made me confront my issues. The time that we spent apart let me know just how precious my relationship was and I didn't want to lose him. As things stood, I was willing to do anything to keep him. No matter how much pain I had to endure, if I had Jake, I knew that I would be okay.

I knew that he was surrounded by attractive women and as a man, I was sure that his eyes would wander at times. There's Toni, Sarah, Ginger and Amara. Despite, his eyes wandering, I knew that his heart was mine and would always be mine. I didn't mind him looking because I knew better than anyone that it would be my bed that he'd find himself in at the end of the night. It was my heart that he desperately craved and that was worth more than all the mines in Africa.

I've been tainted by Jake. My very soul, the core of my being had been tainted. But it wasn't a bad thing. In this case, my soul, which was previously colored pitch black by my own devious personality and thoughts had been tainted by the pure white that was Jake's empathy, compassion, love and affection. I now knew how precious these things were in a companion and how impressive he was for being able to love me through my faults. Yes, I was tainted but I've never felt better in my life. I was changing and though I had a long way to go, I knew I would make it there because of the man on my arm.

"Oh, shit! I'm close. I'm close!"

I could feel him expanding. It was too much. He was going to break me at this rate. I screamed, despite myself. He buried himself inside of me before the streams of his spent excitement slammed against me. That last moment was too intense. I couldn't bear it and I lost myself.

I dug my teeth into his shoulder until I drew blood. I came harder than I thought I would. The feeling was intensified by the suddenness of its appearance. Despite my teeth etched in him, Jake didn't push me away. Instead, he held me close as my pussy convulsed.

I felt myself start to cramp just as he started to place me down.

"Wait! Stop! Cramp..."

He smirked but didn't complain. Instead, he stood perfectly still while I massaged my inner thigh. I smiled embarrassed that such an intense experience would end this way. He didn't let me stew in my embarrassment for too long. He moved his face to my neck and kissed me gently.

The warm afterglow may have been disrupted but my feelings were just as intense as they were before it was interrupted. Eventually, we found ourselves lying on the empty floor, staring at the ceiling.

"Things are going to be complicated from this point onwards."

I nodded, "Yeah. But no matter what, as long as we stay together, I'm sure that we can handle anything."

He was silent for a few minutes. "Are you still interested in having my child."

"Of course. It's all I think about." It was true. I've been dreaming about having his baby since I found out about Ginger. We haven't had much time to put the desires into practice but now that I'd be coming home after a few weeks, that will change.

"Good, because I can't wait to give you a baby."

I smiled, "We have time before the girls get back. You up for another round then?" I crawled on top of him and started kissing his chest and neck.

"For you? I'm always ready for more. Don't you know that I'm addicted to you?"

His words were more romantic in that moment than 100 roses. Whether he knew it or not, a part of me felt obsolete. There he was, ready to have a baby with the younger, fresher and kinder Ginger. I felt like an old lady in comparison. I felt threatened. I didn't want to show that to Jake so I tried to keep the feelings at bay as best I could.

I kissed him as my heart was filled with relief. He loved me. He wanted me. He was still attracted to me. It felt so good to know that he was still my Jake.

I pushed myself up, until I was sitting on him. I felt his hardness between my thighs and slowly moved up and down his length.

"You're not getting up until you cum in me again. Understood?"

He nodded, "Yes, ma'am."

Smiling fiercely, I took him this time. He was mine—my love, my possession, my husband.

He was my entire world.
Interlude II

In a high-class family home, Julia Plades looked out over the garden. It was too cold to really do anything outside but she liked this area the most. It reminded her of her children. Her two boys, both rambunctious, would run around tearing up everything in sight. Her daughter, so kind and thoughtful was more patient and would spend time in the garden with her mother. Although, from time-to-time, she could be caught running, jumping and destroying things at the same rate as her older brothers. They absolutely adored their little sister.

The memories brought a smile to the cold expression that Julia normally wore.

"Mother?" That was her eldest son. He had come by as soon as he and his brother finished their business in Chicago.

"I'm sorry, dear. Continue."

She didn't see this, but her son's eyes nearly bulged out of their sockets when he heard her apologize. She never apologized. It was akin to finding a 4-leaf clover in the desert or climbing a snow-capped mountain only to find a spring forest hidden on its peak—it was an impossibility. But the impossible happened.

"Y-yeah...umm, the house is finished. It had issues with the foundation but most of the issues were cosmetic. We fixed everything that needed to be fixed and had the entire place rewired. Just as you requested, we made the guesthouse into a suite, too. All in all, the entire place is move-in-ready."

Without looking back at him, she nodded. "Okay. Good."

Knowing that this was as much as she was going to say, her son didn't stick around. He had to get back to his girlfriend before she accused him of stepping out on her so this little status update couldn't end quickly enough. Excusing himself, her son left without another word.

Julia was alone. "Twelve weeks. How much longer is that stubborn man going to neglect his responsibilities?" She sighed. It was a rare moment of weakness but she didn't mind. She knew that she was alone. This wasn't how she saw things going. Honestly, she thought that after experience a bit of hardship, Ginger would come crying back home. She felt mixed about the fact that she must've raised a woman who was much stronger than she anticipated. It was good on one hand, but on the other...

"Two weeks. I'll give him 2 weeks to get his shit straight. If he doesn't then I'll go out there myself."

That was the decision she came to. Despite her cold front, she was abjectly worried about her only daughter living so far from home with total strangers and having a baby with an unfamiliar man. This was the reason she sent her two sons out there in the first place. She gave them explicit orders to not only improve the living conditions of her daughter and her first grandchild. Those were just an excuse though. What she really wanted was eyes and ears on that man, Jake Aspen.

What was his intentions? What was his weaknesses? Could she trust him to look after her daughter?

The spies she placed were placed under the guise of helping to fix the new house that they bought. She didn't care if it was obvious. She wanted him to know that he was being watched. She wanted him to know that her eyes would always be on him.

Despite her expectations, the news that she got back was...reluctantly and depressingly positive. By all accounts, he was a decent person.

This time around, she'll need to be more direct. Despite the reports she got back from her sons, she refused to believe that a man who would sleep with someone other than his wife (regardless of the reasoning) could be a good man.

Standing up, she cast one more look at the frozen ground in front of her then she turned and disappeared into the house.

Two weeks, that was as long as she could continue to wait.
Chapter 8

Sarah Mills

"That ends the presentation. Are there any questions?"

I sat in the back of the conference room, desperately typing away. It was my job to make sure that the minutes were accurate to all of Jacob's presentations. This presentation to the board detailed the direction he would be taking with his team over the next couple of years. Several people had questions but they were fairly benign. Jacob had already proven his usefulness to the firm so no one antagonized him. He was a rising star and if things continued this way, he'd be the first Black CEO in our company's history.

After the meeting, I collected the materials that were left over, retrieved the data from the expensive multi-media set up and followed behind Jacob, demurely. I was the perfect assistant.

"Can we talk, Sarah?"

His voice was soft, only for my ears. It was the first time that we were alone since I found out about the baby. When he told me last Friday, I lost control of myself. I attacked him much like I did Chris when he showed up here a few months back trying to start some crap. The only difference was that I loved Jacob. It was hard to come to grips with the fact that I attacked the man that I love but not as hard as coming to grips with the fact that he would be having a baby with another woman. I would've been okay if it were Rachel or even Toni. At least they had a relationship with him. But this girl, despite how sweet she was, she was just some newcomer out of left field. She didn't have the right to be on the field let alone play the game. Regardless, she had developed a bond with him by pure chance and that infuriated me. I took those feelings out on Jacob.

I'd seen red when he told me so I didn't know too many details at the time. Fortunately, Toni showed up and though we both cried our eyes out, she at least let me know a few details that I'd missed.

I know that Jacob had no intention of having a relationship with Ginger. I know that he had no intention of having a baby with her. I know that he didn't do this to hurt me and that it was all at Rachel's insistence. But that didn't make me feel any better.

There was a lot that I wanted to say, but I didn't know if any of it would be the right thing to say. I shook my head as he watched me helplessly.

"I'm sorry. I can't talk about this right now."

He looked disappointed but he didn't force me to do something that I wasn't comfortable with.

Weeks went by. Our relationship remained strained but things were slowly starting to improve. When we finally did talk, it was a very cathartic experience.

"I'm sorry." I started the conversation this way. It was just a random Wednesday night. The office had been emptied and we were simply finishing up for the day before going our separate ways.

Although I had spoken so suddenly, he didn't look confused by my apology. Instead, he took off his eyeglasses and put down his pen. He smiled sheepishly, "No. I should be saying that to you. I'm so very sorry for hurting you, Sarah."

I can't pretend like he betrayed me. I mean, let's be honest, I'm only one of his lovers. I know that. I know that our relationship is dangerous and pain is a constant fear that exists around every corner. It's just that this event just sort of cropping out of nowhere had shocked me more than anything. But now that I knew, there was no going back.

"I'm sorry that I hit you."

"I'd say that I had that coming."

"No. Don't do that."

"Don't do what?"

"Don't try to deflect the responsibility."

"Oh."

"Yeah. I was wrong. I should've never raised my hand in anger. That makes me no better than Chris. I love you, Jacob. I was hurt and I just lashed out. I didn't give you a chance to even defend yourself. I didn't give you a moment to tell me the whole story. I was wrong and I'm so sorry."

He watched me for a moment before nodding. "Alright. I forgive you." His words were my salvation. I felt my shoulders loosen and the pit in my stomach closed up. I'd been holding onto this regret for weeks. It felt so great to be released from that demon.

"Can you tell me everything now?"

"You want to know what happened? Sure. I'll tell you." He walked over to a short cabinet in the corner and pulled out two tumblers and a crystal carafe filled with dark liquid. "It'd be better to talk over a drink. Do you mind?"

I shook my head. "Not at all." We sat there for a time while he explained everything. Some of it was old information because Toni had already shared it with me. But a lot of it was all news to me. Maybe it was my soft heart, but after learning the entire story, I found it really hard to stay mad at her after hearing everything that went down.

If anything, I was mostly irritated with Rachel. I put up with Jacob being with Rachel and with Toni, but that's mostly because I don't have a choice. However, Rachel just forced him onto another woman because of her own guilt.

...Okay, people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. I was just being petty. I did set things up for Jacob and Brooklyn to sleep together, so it wasn't like I was much better than Rachel.

After thinking about a few slightly superfluous thoughts, I decided to focus on what I would do from here on. Even if I don't like it, Jacob is going to have another woman in his life. She might just be treated as a friend or a parental partner and nothing more. But that wasn't a chance I was willing to take. I had long since made up my mind to step over anyone and be anything to win this man over. I knew that I was his girl but because I wasn't the only one, I felt like little more than just a side piece. I didn't like feeling neglected and wanted to be put first for once.

"Do you have any plans the weekend after next?"

He shook his head. "No. Nothing as of yet. Why?"

"Well, it's little Dougie's birthday and Brooklyn invited me down for the party. Would you care to be my plus 1?"

"A plus 1 to a child's birthday party? Why, I'm honored." He smiled sweetly and I smiled back.

"It's a date?"

"It's a date."

I firmed up the plans. We'd have to leave early on Friday or late on Thursday but we should be able to make it with time to spare. Besides, this would give me a chance to show him around the town where I grew up. Plus, it would feel pretty good to get him all to myself. Honestly, after giving him the cold shoulder for so long, I was a little desperate for a bit of his attention so this came at the perfect time. All I had to do now was let Brooklyn know that I'd be bringing him. Hopefully, she doesn't have a cow.

"Are you seriously bringing that prick down here?" Brooklyn was still her cheery little self.

"That's my plan."

"For fucks sake, Sarah. He's no good."

Just in case you weren't aware, Brooklyn wasn't necessarily a fan of Jacob. When she found out that I was dating my boss, she immediately pigeon holed him in her mind. To her, he was just your stereotypical bad guy. He took advantage of me and used his authority to make me his lover. Of course, none of that was correct. Despite my best efforts to explain what was really going on with him, she refused to believe me. When she came to visit a few months back, she practically challenged him to a duel right in front of me. Things ended up okay but only after I agreed to her insane plan of trying to seduce him.

One thing lead to another and...well, we don't really need to talk about that.

Suffice to say, despite her loss, she still didn't soften her stance any. It didn't help that she was the first person I called when I found out about the baby. You can just imagine how she crowed.

"Jake is no good."

"Jake is a dirty cheater."

"You shouldn't be with that jerk-off."

"I'll cut his balls off!"

Over and over. She spoke so horribly of him and honestly, at that moment, that was precisely what I wanted to hear. In that moment, I listened to what she said and felt justified in my anger and vindicated in my earlier attack on him.

But now things were different. No longer did I get off the phone with Brooklyn did Toni show up and provided details I didn't have before. Now, I found it hard to be mad at him.

I was looking into the phone as I spoke to Brooklyn. She was looking into her own camera like I she was dealing with a spoiled and tiresome child. I couldn't help but smile fondly. Who would've thought that out of all the girls in our age group, Brooklyn would be the one that I grew closest to? Julie Sanders was a snake, so I didn't talk to her anymore. The other girls were garbage. Besides Brooklyn, the only one that I spoke to on occasion was Miranda Gomez but she was so introverted that the only time we'd talk was through text. Still, it was good to have two girlfriends that I could rely on who weren't affiliated with anyone up here.

"So, is he invited or not?"

"Will you still come if I say he can't?"

I nodded immediately. "Of course. I'd never miss your son's birthday party."

"Fine. He can come. But I can't promise he'll leave in one piece."

"Okay. Deal."

We spoke a little longer but I tried to avoid the topic of Jacob. Brooklyn felt very strongly about our relationship. I didn't want to start a meaningless fight with my friend. It was fine if she had her own opinion.

***

In a flash, two weeks passed. Jacob and I were standing in a desolate plain that was right off a beaten dirt road. Jacob held a bundle of flowers in one hand and my hand in his other.

"Momma, Daddy, this is Jacob. I told you about him the last time that I came to visit you. Say hi, Jacob."

He nodded before kneeling down and placing the bundle of flowers between the two gravestones. "Mr. and Mrs. Mills, my name is Jacob Aspen. I'm not sure how much Sarah has told you, but our relationship is complicated and only getting more complicated as time passes. Regardless, I promise that I will do everything in my power to make her happy. You can trust me."

As far as a confession one makes in front of his lover's parents' graves, it wasn't too shabby. When I told Jacob about wanting to visit my parents' graves, he didn't balk. Instead, he said that he'd love to visit them with me and suggested we stop for flowers.

It's been nearly a year since the last time I was standing here. At that time, I had snuck back into town only to be spotted by one of Julie's spies. But because of that, I made up with Brooklyn and reconnected with Miranda. All-in-all, it wasn't a bad thing.

After cleaning up the gravesite, Jacob and I spent some time there before leaving. When Chris and I were together, he never came out here. Not even once. But with Jacob, it was different. He honestly cared about me and it showed in the little things that he did. He wasn't one to play games. I know that's silly to hear, considering, but it's true. With Jacob, you know what you get. He's upfront about his stuff and is honest in his affections. When I confessed to him all those months ago, I never really thought that we'd make it here. I hoped that we would, but I didn't think it would really happen.

What I expected to happen was the same old story. A girl falls for her married boss. They have a fling. They get caught. The girl loses everything and the boss gets a divorce. So far, our love story has avoided the beaten path. It was odd but it was ours and that was worth more than anything in my eyes.

We said goodbye to my parents before heading back into town. Despite the fact that I wasn't trying to hide my appearance like I did last time, no one seemed to bat an eye when they saw Jacob and I in town. We turned a few heads, sure. But no one stopped to harass me. It was like I was an out of towner now. It was a little sad to be honest.

"So, this is the mysterious Jake, is it?"

Unfortunately, I spoke way too early. I sighed before turning to face the sound of a condescending voice that dripped with a sadistic bitchiness. Behind me, stood a dark-haired woman. She could've been considered pretty if she didn't cake her face with all that garish make-up and if she could do something about her resting-bitch face.

"Hello, Julie."

Yes, it was Julie Sanders. The same Julie Sanders that first informed me about Chris and Brooklyn expecting a baby. The same Julie Sanders that had her manicured nails buried into the bedrock of this little town's gossip mill. The same Julie Sanders that tried to set me up for a public embarrassment when I last visited. Yes...that very same Julie Sanders.

"Sarah, sweetheart! It's been too long." From this point on, just assume everything she says is being said with a sickeningly sweet and condescending tone, because it is.

"Not long enough, I'm afraid."

"What brings you here and who is this handsome man on your arm?"

"Do you really expect me to think that you don't know, Julie?"

"You must be Jake. You must forgive our little Sarah's manners. I'm Julie Sanders. It's a pleasure to finally meet the man I've heard so much about." She offered him her hand and he took it.

"It's nice to meet you, Julie. I'm Jake Aspen."

"So, Jake Aspen, are you treating our little Sarah well?"

He nodded, "You'll have to ask her that, but I think things are going well with us."

"Is that so? Well, what are you guys doing later? It's not every day that this town gets some fresh blood and it is never as handsome as you are. Why don't we get the gang back together and you guys meet us at the bar later tonight?"

This sounded a little too familiar.

I felt familiar chills running down my spine. I wanted to stop things from reaching their inevitable climax but I was too late.

"Sure. I'd love to meet Sarah's friends. Is that okay with you, Sarah?" Jacob looked at me, with a calm gaze. I hoped he wasn't being taken in by Julie's words.

Knowing that refusing now would just make me look silly, I reluctantly agreed.

***

"Are you fucking stupid? Why would you agree to do anything with that skank?" That was Brooklyn. Shortly after Julie left, I texted her. This was the first thing I heard only seconds after my text was read.

She was screaming so loudly into the phone that Jacob clearly heard every word. I looked at him apologetically, before turning the phone down. "Yes, I know but it's done now. Are you going to be available later?"

"Hang on." When she came back to the phone, she sounded exasperated. "Just got the group text from Julie. Apparently, Sarah Mills has returned with a big Black guy and is asking everyone to meet up at Pullman's bar later. Crap! See what you've gone and done? Now everyone knows!"

"What should I have done, Brooklyn? You know Julie. If I didn't agree, she would've spun it like I was out on the street smoking crack or something. Besides, Jacob wants to go."

"So, we're doing this because Jake wants to? Fuck that. Fuck him! You're insane."

I sighed, "Are you coming or not?"

"Of course, I'm coming! Don't be an idiot. I'd never let you face those wolves alone."

I laughed. That was typical Brooklyn. She was hard as stone on the outside but soft like a marshmallow inside. "Okay. I'll see if Miranda can make it. We'll see you later."

Pullman's Bar. This place brought me back. It was the only bar in town. It was where I first confronted Brooklyn about her relationship with Chris. It was where we made amends and got to know each other. It was a place of fond memories but just as many bad memories. I can't count how many times I had to come just to drag Chris' drunk body off of whoever's easily accessible body he had been grinding against. To be honest, I had much more bad memories than good in this place. Still, here we were.

Jacob and I showed up fashionably late. By the time we got there, the place was packed. It was a Friday night so people just got paid and wanted to get drunk, laid or both. Some people were there to party but a majority of them were there to see what drama they would experience.

I'll admit it, I dressed a little more sexually than I normally would. I wore a tight violet colored mini-dress with a keyhole front. My hair was bungled atop my head, showing the nape of my neck and my tiny ears. The dress constantly wanted to run up my hips and show more than I was willing, so I had to keep my eye on that...but it was worth it. To say that I turned a few heads would be an understatement. I should've expected this because even Jacob barely let me out of the hotel room where we were staying. When I came out of the bathroom, he pounced on me as quickly as a comet. We didn't do anything, but it felt good to be the center of his attention.

Now that we were out in public, he kept a protective hand on the small of my back as he calmly gazed over the bar.

"Sarah! You're here. Wow. Look at you..." Initially, Julie's voice had been dripping with her standard Julie mix but as she got a good look at what I was wearing, her tone lost its luster. I put one tick on my mental map—Me: 1, Julie: 0.

To prevent me from being swarmed, Jake suggested an empty booth on the side of the wall. I agreed and he led me there by the hand. Once I was seated, Julie slid right across from me.

"What can I get you to drink?"

Julie answered first. "Get a few shots and a pitcher."

He looked at me questioningly. I nodded so he went about his business to fetch us our drinks.

While he was gone, Julie took this opportunity for a little Jacob-bashing. "So, what's with him? He seems too old for you. Is it true that he's your boss? He's wearing a wedding ring. Is he really married? If it were me, I'd make him leave his wife. I mean, he's cute and all but there's got to be someone more appropriate out there, right?" This went on for several minutes. I didn't get a word in edgewise. When he finally returned with a tray filled with drinks and glasses, I was shocked.

He motioned over his shoulder. "It was them." He pointed to several girls eyeing him hungrily at the bar. "They insisted that I drink with them but I told them I was here with you."

I smiled. He was so different from Chris. Chris would've just taken the drinks and used it as an excuse to cop a feel on one or all of them. Jacob came to tell me exactly what happened and to get my take.

I couldn't help but feel my heart grow as I realized how much he meant to me. "It's fine. Julie and I were just catching up. If you want to have some shots with them, I'm fine with it."

He looked between Julie and I suspiciously, but didn't ask me to elaborate. He just nodded, took a handful of shots and disappeared to the other side of the bar.

Once he was gone, Julie cast out a casually snide comment. "Are you sure that was a good idea? Those three girls are just trying to get in his pants."

"I know." I wasn't worried. They had nothing on me. But hey, if they were going to save us some money by buying a few drinks for us then all the more power to them. I smiled at Julie as she looked at me with her hands raised as if to say, I've said all I could say.

The bar grew livelier after that. Jacob would come and check in every 5-10 minutes. In the time away, Julie kept trying to drive a wedge in our relationship while everyone else in the bar tried to either get into Jacob's pants, measure him up, or see how shit faced they could get him.

When Brooklyn finally showed up with Miranda in tow, it was a sight for sore eyes.

"Sorry I'm late. I had to wait until my parents could come get Dougie."

"It's fine. I'm glad you're here. Hey Miranda. You're looking pretty hot tonight."

Miranda blushed. A bar was not her scene. She would be much more comfortable in a quiet alcove with a couple of books and a cup of tea. I appreciated that she came to brave the savages just for me.

"Brooklyn. Miranda. Why don't you slide on in here? We're just having a little girl talk."

Brooklyn eyed her menacingly. "Girl talk, huh? I doubt that." She poured herself a cup of beer and didn't offer Miranda anything. That was fine, we all knew that Miranda hardly ever drank.

After taking a deep gulp of her beer she looked out over the bar. "What happened to Jake?"

I motioned towards the back of the bar, where there was a group of people so thick that light couldn't make its way through. In the center of that group, was a handsome man with a dark complexion. He had been the center of attention since walking in. I hadn't even had any time with him of my own. I was starting to think that wearing this dress was all for nothing.

Brooklyn didn't notice my internal monologue. "What's he doing over there?" She stood up and waved, "Hey! Jake! Get over here!" Her tone was just as rotten as ever. Still, Jacob didn't get worked up. Instead, I watched him stand slowly as he smiled at those around him, excusing himself.

As he walked over towards us, Brooklyn murmured something that I couldn't make out. Julie sighed emotionally and Miranda continued looking down at the table.

His easy grace was just as refined and beautiful as always, the only difference here was the background. It only served to make him stand out more.

"Hello, Brooklyn." He smiled. "Are you girls done with your girl talk?"

Brooklyn didn't give him any face. "What the hell are you doing all the way over there? Don't you care about all these guys in here trying to get their hands-on Sarah? Do you not care about her? Huh?"

Jacob didn't bat an eye. "You look lovely tonight, Brooklyn. Is that a new dress?"

Sure enough, Brooklyn was wearing a new dress. It was a strapless dark colored dress that complimented her smoky eyes and shapely figure.

She nodded smartly, "Thanks. So, what's the big deal? Did you come all the way down here just to pick up chicks?"

"No. It's nothing that diabolical. I was just getting the lay of the land. How are things over here?"

Brooklyn made room so that Jacob and I could sit together and she sat on the end, preventing all of his would-be admirers from getting close to him.

"We're fine, baby. Hey, let me introduce you. You already met Julie and you know Brooklyn. This is Miranda. She's the town librarian."

Miranda briefly looked up. When her eyes landed on Jacob, they opened ever so slightly but just as quickly, darted back to the dark and scratched wood between us.

"It's a pleasure, Miranda. I'm Jake Aspen."

"I-it's nice to meet you, too."

She didn't offer her hand and couldn't even look at him again. Poor Miranda. She's just too shy.

We spent the rest of the night drinking and talking. Around 10ish, the bar got pretty rowdy. We'd been drinking steadily and carrying on a lively conversation. Julie kept flirting with Jacob while peppering in little statements about how he was way out of my league. Brooklyn was too absorbed in trying to defend me and didn't pay attention to the fact that she was being hit on almost constantly. Miranda decided at some point to bury her shyness in the bottom of several shots and glasses of beer. Buoyed by the alcohol, she finally opened up and Jacob and her had been talking about books for quite a while. I watched all of this going on with a calm detachment.

This wasn't where I wanted to be. I wanted to be at home, alone with Jacob. I wanted to be lying in bed with his arm around me. I didn't need any of this and at this point, it all seemed rather pointless and empty.

I placed my hand on his thigh and he paused long enough to reach down and grab my hand. It felt good, that connection. I was sharing him with everyone else, and other than two of the people seating with us, I didn't give a damn about anyone else that might've been there.

I looked around the bar, I half expected Chris to make a dramatic appearance but luckily, that didn't happen.

When a certain song came on, Brooklyn squealed and jumped out of the booth. She grabbed me and practically dragged me across Jacob's body towards the dance floor. Miranda and Julie weren't able to escape her enthusiasm either. We weren't the only one's dancing but from the looks in everyone's eyes, you'd never know it. We were surrounded by people but for some reason, I felt like we were on display.

Whatever. I closed my eyes and concentrated on the music. I let the loud beat pound through my body as I swayed my hips and moved my body to the rhythm. It wasn't long before I felt his eyes on me.

From his position in the booth, Jacob was watching me closely. He watched as I swayed and enticed the audience with my moves and my body. He watched as I teased him from a safe distance. He watched but he did not interfere. He'd had his fun as the center of attention. Now it was my turn to make him wait for me.

Brooklyn was no slouch either. She moved her hips like a belly dancer as her smoky eyes caused men's minds to evaporate. Julie avoided putting on a show for the crowd and instead, pulled the first guy that she was interested in and dry humped him while everyone watched. Miranda was the most out of place. She was dragged to the floor but she slowly disappeared into the crowd. It wasn't long before I caught her reappear back at the table with Jacob.

Men tried to crowd around me but I never let them get too close. I wasn't dancing for them. I was dancing for him.

When the song ended another one played. Brooklyn, Julie and I didn't return to our seats. We danced in this dilapidated bar with the scarred floors and the obnoxious air like it was a trendy club in Manhattan. We enjoyed ourselves until I felt sweat slowly dripping down my neck.

All the while he watched me with his dark colored eyes. He wasn't jealous. He was entranced.

Finally, the music changed. As I was headed back towards to booth, I was stopped by a big hand on my arm. Before I knew what was happening, my body was pulled, roughly, into the strong chest of an even stronger man.

Jacob. He smelled like excitement and felt like fire. His arms wrapped around the small of my waist as we danced to a song that was much slower than the previous ones. We danced as he stared into my eyes. He never kissed me but I could feel his desire to. We danced like the only two people in the world and it was splendid.

When the song ended, Julie, not so subtlety asked to cut in. Jacob was a gentleman although I could tell by the look in his eye that he was annoyed that she'd interrupt us. I didn't mind. I knew that she was wasting her time.

With Brooklyn in tow, we headed back up to the bar and ordered another round of shots. We were surrounded almost immediately, with several of the men trying to get us to drink more, smoke something, and one of them even offered us a bump (I think he called it). Anyway, we didn't give any of them the time of day. We weren't being snobby, I promise. It's just that with these guys, you give them an inch they will take a mile. It was better not to get their hopes up and risk offending their sensitive little egos. A lot less drama that way.

Oh! By the way, at some point Chris actually did show up. It must've been when we were dancing because I didn't notice. Anyway, he didn't approach us at all and instead sat far away from the action in a dark corner, brooding. We'll talk about that more in a little bit.

Jacob and Julie's dance was over. He politely bid her farewell and she desperately tried rubbing her body up and down his, trying to feel the places that she had no right to touch. I saw his hands stop her before she embarrassed herself. He whispered something in her ear, smiled and turned to leave. Julie watched him walk away with a stricken expression on her face but she didn't chase after him.

The crowd parted for Jacob. When he reappeared, he was standing in front of a quiet little Mexican woman. He smiled down and spoke a few words. She shook her head fervently and tried to deny whatever it was that he was saying.

He reached for her and again she backed away but eventually, she gave in to his persistence. Jacob led Miranda to the dance floor where they danced. It wasn't intense like our dance was, nor was it dirty like Julie was trying to do. It was sweet. It was charming. Despite this, it didn't come across as sad or like he felt sorry for her. They danced to one song and she was stiff the entire time. They danced to another song and Jacob spent the whole time smiling and talking. They danced to a final song and Miranda was laughing and chatting animatedly with him. She looked like she was having fun. I felt bad when it came to an end.

We all met up back at the booth where we shared a few more drinks. We were missing one person but no one there really cared. Julie had gone off somewhere and no one knew where.

We drank for a while longer before leaving. As we left, whispered to Jacob that Chris had shown up but he didn't look surprised. He must've seen him arrive. When I looked over into the dark corner where he was nursing a half empty bottle of some light-colored liquor, I noticed our missing compatriot, Julie, seated next to him. One hand was dangling on his shoulder while the other was underneath the table doing God knows what. We didn't offer them another glance.

A part of me thought that the two of them were a match made in a very dark corner of Hell, but that wasn't my concern. We stepped out into the night, put Miranda and Brooklyn in a cab and then headed back towards out hotel.

It was just past 11 when we left. The time out had been fun but not necessarily fulfilling. I wanted something and I was going to get it. I hadn't even placed my clutch on the night stand before I was forcibly bent over at the waist.

"J-Jacob! What are you doing?"

He hiked up my dress and exposed my thong covered backside to the world...well to the empty hotel room where we stayed. He slapped my ass hard, one time and then kissed the cheek that he slapped.

I yelped. "Jacob!"

He slapped the other cheek and kissed it again.

I felt myself growing wet.

"You're a fucking cock tease. Do you know that?" His voice had become dark and dangerous. He stood to his full height and looked down at me.

My eyes were glued to his imposing figure. "I'm a cock tease? You're the one that had everyone hanging off of you. You're nothing but a playboy." I didn't back down. I spoke my mind and said my thoughts without an ounce of fear. I wasn't going to hold back my feelings. Not for him. Not for anyone.

"Are you talking back to me?"

I pushed his chest. "You bet I am."

"You don't have that right."

"Says who?"

"Says me. You'd better watch how you speak to me."

"Oh yeah? Make me."

He took the bait. He grabbed me by the waist and lifted me onto his shoulders. I screamed as he picked me up so roughly. As he walked, he reached up and ripped the thong off of me. I heard it tear but didn't pay it any attention.

He threw me on the bed and pressed me down before I could right myself. "Make you? Hmph! Don't think that I won't."

"I'd like to see you try." I was out of breath. I was too turned on by him to think straight. This night has been one long exercise in self-restraint and I was about ready to crack.

"I'll teach you how to behave."

He kissed my lips and then worked his way down my body. I was still in my dress so every kiss and caress came from over the clothing. I didn't mind. The sheer material offered only the tiniest of barriers between us.

He was between my thighs before I knew what hit me.

"You won't be able to talk back after I take care of this tight little pussy, baby."

I nodded, my eyes glazed over with lust. I was already cracking. "Yes, baby. Do it. Do it so nice."

His face disappeared between my legs. I felt his lips on my clit as they grazed over it. His tongue spread my lips as he tasted me using long, slow and wet strokes. His tongue flicked my urethra a couple of times and it was so intense that I nearly shredded the dress I was wearing.

"Sweet Jesus! More!"

I was nothing more than an exposed nerve. The weeks of pain. The weeks of sadness. The weeks of anger. The weeks of missing him. All of it came rushing back right there in that hotel room. I needed him and my body knew it. My heart knew it.

He was performing his best work on me and all I could do was moan and bear down for the ride. I came on his tongue and then he made me cum on his fingers, as he slowly stripped me of my dress.

I had cum twice and I still felt an unquenched thirst in my loins.

"Still, mouthy?" He quipped.

I looked at his incredible lips and smiled. "I'll be anything that you want me to be."

"Right now, I want you to be mine."

"I am yours. All yours. Take me."

I watched him remove his clothing, down to the very last thread. He was naked and all I had on was the pair of earrings that I wore.

When he climbed between my legs, I knew that tonight would be exorcizing. My pain and my demons would be washed away after this.

We didn't make love. It was too desperate and too hot for that. We had incredible sex that tested the limits of what the human body was capable of. He touched places so deep inside of me that I felt changed by it. By the end, we were both spent and out of breath.

Despite the exertion, my mind was finally clear and the last weight had been lifted from my heart.

From the day I first met him, Jacob has been a fixture in my mind. When I think about how I spilled that soda all over him, I can only chuckle about how absurd our love story started. Through all of my troubles with Chris to losing the weight and finding myself, Jacob has been the person in my heart.

Since that first moment, I was tainted by him. It wasn't a bad thing to be tainted by Jacob Aspen. Complicated, yes. But bad, no. I fell in love with a man that I shouldn't have, but I don't regret it. I only hope that I can spend even one more second with him. All I want, is to be with him.

I fell asleep in his arms and it was the most precious moment of my life.

"I love you, Jacob."

Interlude III

Darwin paced as he did when he was angry. The unspoken rule in their house had been shattered. He was angry. He was beside himself. He felt like he wanted to murder the world.

"Darwin, sit down before you break something."

The cold voice came from the woman seated elegantly at the small French inspired sofa. Julia Plades looked elegant and imposing at a single glance. Despite the difference in physical size between the two, you'd be hard-pressed to consider Darwin as more imposing. There was something about Julia that made the rest of the world seem limited.

Darwin sat down with a loud harrumph. When he looked at his wife, he had to ask again.

"What are you talking about Jules?"

For the second time, she explained, "Our only daughter is nearly 20-weeks pregnant. She's already moved out of the hotel and is living in Chicago with Jake and Rachel. While you're sitting here feeling sorry for yourself, she has already flown straight out of our grasp."

Darwin knew that she was right but he didn't want to admit it. "But that was her choice. It was her choice to sleep with a married man. It was her choice to get pregnant. It was her fault!"

"You're being petulant and hypocritical. She's not the only one in this family to have an extramarital affair, is she?" He looked at her sheepishly but didn't otherwise respond.

She continued, "Obviously, she didn't want to get pregnant. She said as much when she told us. It happened and while I would've liked things to be different, you can't control your children to that degree. She made her bed and instead of running home, like we both expected, she is struggling to find her own way."

"So, you want to what? Leave?"

"Yes. That's precisely it. I'm leaving. I'm going to go spend the rest of this time with my daughter and help her prepare to be a mother."

"You can't do that!"

"You don't have the right to stop me."

"Jules..."

"Darwin, I gave you time. I gave you both time, but I'm out of options now. You're not willing to reconcile and she's too stubborn to ask for help. All that I can do now is stop playing the waiting game and go see my daughter. You're welcome to come along at any point, but even if you don't, I plan on helping her as best I can. In any way that I can."

Julia wasn't one to move without a plan. She's already thought of several ways to help her daughter, the first being just showing up and helping her get ready for a baby.

Darwin knew that when Julia set her mind to something, even an act of God wouldn't change it. He could do nothing but frown as she explained her plans to leave in a few days. She told him about the house and how she recruited their sons to help revamp it. She let him know all the pertinent details and implored him to make a better decision than what he had made before and then she got up and left. She only had a few days before she left so there were a lot of things still left to do.

When she was finally alone, an uncharacteristically solemn expression came to her face. "My sweet baby girl. Mommy will be there soon."
Part 3

A Gentleman's Club

Chapter 9

Jacob Aspen

So much has happened in such a short time. But to avoid burying the lead, let me tell you give you a few details.

The morning after waking up in the hotel room with Sarah was absolute bliss. The previous night, I had to deal with a bunch of her overly inebriated former classmates. It was all well and good at first but it got old pretty quickly. Still, I had to be a good sport for Sarah's sake. She didn't even want to come in the first place so the fact that she did spoke volumes. I couldn't let her down.

As I chatted up people left and right, I watched Sarah. She looked so elegant and classy. In a dive like the one we found ourselves in, it was like putting a Lamborghini in the middle of a monster truck rally. She was of a similar ilk but definitely didn't fit in. Brooklyn wasn't much better but at least she seemed more at home. Sarah, in her tight-fitting dress received countless suitors. None of them seemed to have any effect on her, but I couldn't say the same. As I watched men throw themselves at her, I grew impatient, even angry at times.

I was able to control myself until we made it back to the hotel room. Once we were back, I couldn't hold back any more and I devoured her. She had a smart little mouth, my Sarah did, but I didn't let that distract me. Instead, I used it as fuel to destroy her body and make it mine once more.

It was glorious.

Now, watching her sleep, I was reminded about how much I cared for her and how little time we had left. When we initially started this, she stated that it should only continue until we either got tired of it or when my wife returned. Well, Rachel was returning in just a few weeks. This might be one of the last times we're together like this.

The thought broke my heart but there was nothing I could do. I couldn't tell her to stay as a side chick when I knew I wouldn't leave my wife for her. I loved Sarah and I loved Rachel, but one doesn't just get a divorce so easily.

No. With everything that was happening, more women only equaled more problems.

I decided to push those depressing thoughts to the recesses of my mind and simply enjoy the moment.

The morning light came through the large window and alighted her perfect face. I wonder if she understands how beautiful she is, and if she understands how enamored I am with her.

She breathed quietly, her heavy chest rising and falling as she dreamed. Because I moved, she shifted automatically, but didn't wake up. I could still feel her warmth and I knew that she was still naked beneath the covers, but I didn't assault her. I just watched as she continued dreaming.

I must've watched her, imprinting every breath, every flutter of her eye lashes—everything into my memory. I wanted to take my phone and take a video of her but that would be too uncouth. I refrained.

After half an hour, Sarah finally awoke.

"Good morning, honey." My voice was soft as I watched her eyes flutter open and she looked around, unsure of where she was.

When she heard me, her head turned in my direction. There was a slight flush to her cheeks and she tried to hide beneath the covers. It was absolutely adorable.

"Good morning, Jacob. Sleep well?"

"Not as well as you."

"H-how long have you been awake?"

"Oh...just for a little while. Why? Worried you did something embarrassing in your sleep?"

She tossed me a withering glance but it was off-set by the adorable flush on her cheeks so I wasn't afraid in the least.

I let her stew in her concerns for a moment before rescuing her. "Don't worry. You looked so cute that I nearly fell for you all over again."

My words had their intended effect. She blushed so hard that her ears turned red. She was fully buried beneath the covers, trying to hide but it was too late. I'd seen how I affected her.

I met her beneath the covers and we resumed last night's revelry all over again.

After slowly making love, we showered and went to grab breakfast. It was the day of the birthday party, so we'd be seeing Brooklyn again and I'd finally get to meet her son.

***

It was later in the day and we were headed over to Brooklyn's home when Sarah asked, "What did Julie say to you last night?"

I had to think. "She said a whole bunch. You'll have to be more specific."

"When you were dancing?"

"You call that dancing? I could interpret it as assault."

She laughed. "Okay. When she was finished assaulting you."

I thought about it. I wasn't sure if I should say anything. "Nothing much."

She didn't buy it. She knew Julie much better than I did so I was sure she had to have some idea what happened. "It's fine. You can tell me. I won't get mad."

I watched her as she piloted the rental car. She had an easy calm and grace to her profile. I figured treating her with kiddy gloves wouldn't help anyone at this point.

"Okay. Well, she asked me to go home with her. She said that you'd be fine with it. She told me that Chris used to cheat on you all the time and you knew about it and didn't do anything so if I went home with her it would be more of the same. She told me that she really wanted to fuck my brains out and suggested a few things she would be willing to do."

Without batting an eye, she nodded. I don't know if she was expecting that or not. She didn't give any indication that she was upset and didn't ask me my response.

We arrived at Brooklyn's house soon after. Before going in, Sarah glanced at me with a lovely smile. Her hazel eyes danced in the light as she took my hand. "I love you, Jacob. I trust you. You know that, right?"

I nodded.

"Good. Never be afraid to tell me something I should know. I won't be a pest, I promise. Just trust me in return and always tell me the truth. Kay?"

I nodded again. "I promise."

She smiled and then released my hand. "Let's go."

***

The party was cute. Dougie turned 3-years old and was as rambunctious as you'd expect from the combined stock of Brooklyn and Chris. He was a cute kid that took everything in with the wide-eyed excitement of an innocent child.

As the children played, the adults stayed at the fringes, talking and getting to know each other. Most of the parents here already were familiar with one another. They lived in the same circles. However, there were only a few faces that were familiar to me...3 in fact. Sarah, Brooklyn and Miranda.

Right after the party started, Brooklyn dragged me in the kitchen. We were alone because Sarah was catching up with a few people from her previous employer.

In her natural habitat, Brooklyn looked less in-your-face stunning and more subdued but still incredibly attractive. Her hair was down. She had no make-up on and she was wearing jeans and sweatshirt. She was attractive in that girl next door (when you both know she's out of your league) kind of way.

"Listen, pal." When the conversation started this way, I knew that I was about to get the whispering of a lifetime. "Sarah might've forgiven your philandering ways but I sure as hell haven't. You hurt my friend and it is only through her grace that I didn't drive up to Chicago and unload my shotgun in your face. You either do right by her or I promise you that you won't live long enough to regret it."

I could tell at a single glance that Brooklyn was entirely serious. While I didn't appreciate being threatened, it was pretty standard when it came to my relationship with Brooklyn.

Hmm, relationship...

She was close enough for our noses to touch. I could smell a sweet fragrance on her breath, maybe pop? Her bare lips were plump despite her frowned brow. I recalled those lips being wrapped around my cock. I recalled being inside of her and the quiet yet sweet moans that fell between her tightly closed lips. I remembered her body and how soft it felt. It took an enormous effort to keep myself from looking past her eyes and openly ogling her body.

Because she was so close, she might've had a thought similar to mine because all of a sudden, her face turned slightly pink and she quickly backed off, nervously clearing her throat and tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. Then she turned her back to me and pretended to be busy pulling snacks together, although that had already been done.

Without her death stare, I took the opportunity to enjoy the view of her little backside as she moved. She didn't say anything but I could feel that she knew I was there. And I think...maybe...she liked it.

After several minutes passed, another person finally came into the kitchen. She was a pretty but bookish Mexican woman. I'd met her for the first time the previous night. She kept her own counsel better than anyone I'd ever met but by the end of the night, I got her to open up. All I had to do was find a topic she was passionate about.

When Miranda saw me, she smiled brightly.

"Hey Jake."

"Hello Miranda. You look stunning."

Not being used to comments, she tripped over her tongue before clumsily accepting the compliment. Last night, she "went out on the town" but was without make-up and wore a long dark skirt and sweater that did nothing for her figure. However, today (at a child's birthday party) she wore an attractive pair of jeans that highlighted her thick hips and slim waist along with a long-sleeved crop top. Her small breasts were accentuated and she wore just a bit too much make-up. Why was she suddenly trying so hard? I was confused but because she was putting in a good effort, I didn't want to dissuade her. Besides, she really did look stunning. If she went out like this normally, she'd turn more than just a few heads. She might cause actual accidents or ruin relationships; she was that appealing.

We talked, the three of us, for a few minutes before Sarah joined us. Apparently, she wanted to drag me around and introduce me to several people. Before leaving, Miranda, in an uncharacteristic move, reached out and grabbed my hand stopping Sarah and I from leaving.

She took a deep breath like she was struggling with something and then she practically yelled, "I-I'd like to come visit you, too. Is that okay?"

She looked at me for a moment but then caved and pleaded to Sarah.

Sarah and Miranda shared a look of deep interest that I couldn't decipher. After a moment, Sarah smiled friendly. "Sure, Miranda. You're welcome to come up anytime. We'll plan something."

Suddenly, the breath that Miranda was holding was expelled loudly and she released me. I didn't get it but whatever. We left and she introduced me to her former co-workers as her boyfriend, Jake.

In the weeks that followed, my life returned to a semblance of normalcy. I finally got my house back, after Ginger's brothers finished the reconstruction of the new house and the grounds there. It sort of looked like the same place the we bought but there was a fresher and more sturdy air about the place. They were great with giving progress reports and telling me the God's honest truth without trying to sell me on something. Eventually, I just told them to do what needed to be done and trusted their expert judgement. I know that it's not popular to allow people I've just met such a high level of freedom, especially in the contracting game, but I figured this was better than me half-heartedly giving them instructions about things that I didn't even understand. A person, ignorant to a job, micromanaging the people that knew their job well would only slow down a project. I've seen it more than once in my career so I decided to air on the side of caution. Besides, it was more than a little obvious how much they cared for their little sister. Since she'd be living there, I doubted they'd pull any shenanigans.

As the time for the scheduled move loomed, I had packed boxes and even Rachel's car trucked out from Rhode Island. Ginger and Rachel had amassed quite the collection of things so it was a chore organizing it all in the new house.

But it wasn't all work. On some evenings Toni would come by and keep me company. Other nights it would be Sarah. They never came over at the same time and they never asked me to spend time with them when I've already made plans with the other. I got the impression that they planned it this way but it wasn't my place to ask.

Then it was D-Day, or Moving Day to be less dramatic.

Because of Ginger's situation, she was flat out banned from lifting anything over 10-pounds. Toni and Ginger were at the new house unpacking boxes while Rachel, Sarah and I loaded the last of the boxes and furniture from our old house into the moving truck.

With one final look, I closed the door and started a new adventure.

Chapter 10

Jacob Aspen

Odd. I know that I said I was starting a new adventure, but what in the actual fuck was happening?

Let's go back about a week so I can tell you how I ended up in this situation.

That first night, we all worked like a well-oiled machine. Rachel, Toni, Sarah, Ginger and I all came together to move, unpack and set up the house. Because of all the work that had been done and the input of those involved, the house was already perfectly arranged so it was like plug n' play.

Working together, we were done in about 6 hours after the last of the boxes and furniture was moved.

"What's going on with that house in the back yard?" Sarah was sitting at the table, wearing a complicated expression as she glanced at Rachel seated so close to me that she was practically on my lap.

It was now official. Rachel was back, which meant that Sarah and I had ended our relationship. Despite this, I was still powerfully attracted to her and I still felt a bevy of tender feelings for her. That wasn't something I could just turn off, and I'd be lying if I said that Rachel was now the only person in my heart.

Chewing loudly on a piece of fried chicken, Toni waved a half-eaten drumstick towards the backyard. "Honestly? We haven't really decided. Ginger's brothers suggested making the place into this high-class detached apartment type place."

Ginger handed Toni a napkin, "I think it's odd, too. But they just shut me down when I asked about it. I don't know what they're thinking. Honestly, those guys always only do what they want. They never ask me for my opinion."

Upon hearing that statement, everyone around the table turned to stare at Ginger like she was particularly daft. Did she still not understand how doting her brothers were towards her?

Feeling our stares, she was taken aback, "What?"

Collectively, we all smirked and shook our heads. If she didn't get it now then maybe one day she will. "Nothing. I don't know. Maybe we can use it as a place for my parents to stay." Rachel piped up after getting tired of her friend's ignorance.

In a moment of perfect cosmic symmetry, the doorbell rang. No one expected any guests and it was too late for a neighbor to stop by.

I stood up and headed towards the door. "I'll get it."

Not one to be left out, Toni stood up, too. "I'll come."

"Me too." Feeling alienated at the table, Ginger took this opportunity to escape persecution.

So, the 3 of us went to answer the door. I think there's a joke in there somewhere.

Anyway, as we approached the brown solid oak door, I couldn't make out the face from the small window at the top of the door. Still, if it were a robber or murderer, I doubted that they'd ring the doorbell. I opened it without hesitation.

I froze.

Ah! Now it all makes sense. Well, I guess the purpose of that little getaway was decided before we even had a chance to discuss it.

"Mom?"

Standing on the doorstep was an older woman, covered in a heavy coat and scarf. There were several large suitcases in tow. Her cold features warmed when she saw the pregnant Ginger.

A slight smile spread her lips. I was reminded how imposing yet attractive she is. Julia Plades stood on my doorstep, looking like an escapee.

"Hello, darling. This place looks nice. Your brothers did a good job." She stepped into the house without being invited and gave the place a cursory glance. Her eyes stopped once or twice but overall, she nodded in approval. Without looking at me, she waved at the army of suitcases behind her. "Jake, would you be kind enough to take my things to my living area, please?"

Everything clicked in place at that moment. I couldn't help but chuckle. It looks like I don't have a choice anyway so I might as well make the best of it. I agreed and started gathering things an taking them through the house towards the detached house in the backyard. On my way, I told Rachel that Julia had arrived and Sarah and her went to receive her.

I heard Ginger ask, "Why are you here, mother?" But because I had already pieced everything together, I didn't stay to hear the story. I just got to work moving suitcases.

That night, Julia got to meet the rest of the gang. There was still a coldness towards Rachel and I, but that was understandable. We were sort of responsible for her only daughter getting pregnant so suddenly. As far as Toni and Sarah were concerned, she was cordial but needed some time to warm up. I'd say that she warmed up to Sarah before Toni, though. And as far as Ginger was concerned...let's just say that that whole Ice Queen thing she had going on had been permanently defrosted.

Ginger was taken aback but was obviously grateful that her mother had arrived. Tactfully, we all gave them room to catch up.

That first night, Sarah stayed over and slept in the guest room. Toni tried to sneak into my bedroom under the guise of a "Family Sleepover" but Rachel stopped her. I laughed. Toni looked like a discarded cat whose owner wanted her to sleep in the litter box. Rachel and I slept together, of course. Julia and Ginger shared Ginger's bed, although, I don't know when they actually went to sleep. When we left, they were still talking.

The next few days we developed a new normal. Toni and I started to carpool to and from work. Rachel would leave shortly after us to get to her office. Ginger and Julia would spend that time together. Sometimes they would shop, sometimes they would relax in Julia's cottage and Ginger took Julia to meet her OBGYN. In that time, they grew extremely close. Because Sarah and Toni were so close (not to mention our previous relationship), she would come over a few times a week. On occasion our eyes would meet and I would notice a look of controlled longing but she never pressed it. It was hard but we'd both get over it in time.

Early on Saturday, Toni's friends Tonya and Sofí came over. I hadn't seen them since Rachel's birthday party all those months ago. Tonya was still an exotic European beauty and Sofí was hot and spicy. When they came, they opened their hands immediately.

"Uh, can I help you?"

Sofí was the first to speak, "Don't be a fool, Jake. Where are our keys?"

"Keys?"

"Yeah."

"Why would you have keys to my house?"

She rolled her eyes so Tonya answered for her. "We need to be to come and go as we please."

"Why?"

Looking around surreptitiously, Tonya approached me closely. I heard the sound of a quiet mutter of irritation coming from behind me but I didn't know if it was from Toni, Ginger or Rachel so I just ignored it. I was certain seeing someone as sexy as Tonya pressing against me in such an intimate manner was a little upsetting.

Quietly, so as not to be overheard, she whispered, "Toni still cares for you. She's not able to get over your relationship just because your wife is back. We need to be able to come rescue her when she's not capable of rescuing herself."

Hearing those words, I had no choice but to give in. I handed over two of the spare keys and they took them with relish. I felt like I'd just invited the wolves into my home but there was nothing I could do about it. When Sarah showed up a little later, I also gave her a key, because at this point, why not?

Now that Tonya and Sofí made their appearance, the girls all decided to spend the time together. Toni, Rachel, Sarah, Tonya, Sofí and Ginger all went out. Ginger hadn't had any time to really see the sights so they took her out with the understanding that they'd be avoiding clubs and bars.

That left me all alone for the first time in days. Unfortunately, I had a ton of work to get through so I didn't get to do anything too fun.

It was later in the day when I heard a knocking on my office door. It was Julia. The two of us didn't have much time to talk since she arrived earlier in the week.

"Jake? Do you have a moment?"

"Sure. I was just finishing up."

She nodded, "Good. I'd like to invite you over to discuss the situation with my daughter. Will you have time later?"

I knew this had to happen so I didn't try to run away from reality. "Of course. I'll be finished working in about an hour. How about then?"

"That's acceptable. I'll see you shortly." Her tone was as cold as you'd expect but I was getting used to it. I knew that improving her impression of me would be an uphill battle. This was just the opening salvo.

Rachel and the girls wouldn't be back for a while so I ate a light dinner and then headed over to Julia's place.

This is where the craziness happened.

***

Julia's place was a small, 600 square foot structure. There was enough room for a bedroom, a bathroom, a living space and a kitchen. It had an open concept and flowed nicely so the small size didn't make you feel cramped.

I knocked but no one answered. I waited for a moment and then let myself in.

The first thing I noticed were the candles. There were several tall candles lighting the room. In the corner, a fireplace was burning through a couple of logs as it heated the small interior to a pleasant degree. Despite the light, the place was dark. It was odd because I knew the electricity worked but maybe she just liked the ambiance.

"Julia?" I raised my voice so that she knew I had arrived. I didn't want her to walk out of the shower or something and think I was creeping on her.

"I'll be right out." From inside the bedroom, I heard her voice.

Despite this being my first time in her place (after she moved in) I made myself at home. I sat down right on the small couch and watched the fire dance in the fireplace.

Several minutes passed before I felt a light touch on my shoulder. I turned to stand but she pressed her hand down firmly. "You don't have to stand. Care for a drink?"

Her cold tone was sultrier than I was used to. It made me curious as to why that would be. I turned my head to look at her only to freeze in place.

Let me just say, Julia is a beautiful woman. I mean it. She might not have movie star looks but she has this grace and air about her that makes her shine even in the darkest of places. Ginger, if she should be so fortunate, might one day grow into such a wondrously developed woman, but it was too soon to tell.

Draped in a shear robe, I could make out the cream-colored clothing she wore beneath. And I say clothing in the loosest sense of the word. Beneath her light robe she wore an enticing laced bra, panties, stockings and garter. Somehow the fact that I could barely make it out and she wasn't parading around in just that made it all the sexier.

I swallowed hard. My mouth was dry but I went through the motions anyway. She saw my jaw open and the way that I observed her body and tilted her head in a cute sort of way.

"Jake?" Her voice was still sultry. "Drink?"

Being yanked out of my adolescent musings, I nodded quickly. "Yes. Please."

I watched her hips sway over to the dry bar as she poured two glasses of Pinot Noir. I stood up to receive the glass when she came back. Along with her enticing figure, I caught a subtle whiff of orchids and lilac. The scent wasn't powerful but it lingered in the air enticing me to smell more.

Our fingers touched when I took the glass from her and I felt like I'd been jolted by electricity. I felt strange. I didn't feel like myself in that moment. I felt like I was less than who I was and I was fully captivated by her sex appeal. I felt like I was a teenager again, seeing my crush standing right in front of me. It was like I was just a child and she was the naughty babysitter trying to seduce me.

Once we sipped from our glasses (Well, she sipped. I gulped.) she got right down to business.

"Have a seat next to me, Jake. We need to talk."

I was too weak to resist. The soft furniture felt like needles to my conscience. But that along with the wine helped me come back to my senses.

What was I thinking? Ogling Ginger's mother had been a risky move. I can't even contemplate the number of problems doing anything untoward with Julia would bring.

"So...", she began, "do you know why I invited you over?"

I had come back to my senses but I found her just too enticing to relax around. "You wanted to talk to me about Ginger and the baby."

"That's right." Her emptied hand gently touched my leg. On any other occasion, I would've assumed it to be just a friendly touch that indicated a familiarity with one another, but when I looked at her exposed midriff and shockingly toned body, I paused that naïve train of thought.

"W-what are you doing, Julia?"

My question was met with an enigmatic smile. It was the type of smile that men dream about seeing on a woman's lips, but it also made me cautious. "Let's not play the fool. You're a smart man. I'm sure you understand what's happening here."

Without waiting for my response, Julia placed her glass on the table and after swiping my glass from my hand, she did the same for me.

She slowly pulled the rope that barely kept her shear robe tied together. The sides opened like two wings of a bird showcasing her sensual body underneath.

She casually leaned back against the side of the couch, allowing my eyes to wander all down her body. Her eyes were steady. She didn't have the embarrassed look of a maiden. No. She looked collected as if everything fell within her calculations.

I watched, entranced, as she slowly crossed her legs at the knee. The flesh on her thighs were pulled taunt by her actions. I noticed the off-white lace panties that seemed to scream Come and Get it. Her bosom wasn't overflowing and it wasn't gigantic. If I had to give it a word, that word would be respectable. The sexy bra that she wore was stimulating and did the world a tremendous favor by adequately showcasing her gorgeous breasts.

Her sensual body combined with her inspiring face and intimidating eyes gave off the impression that this woman was way out of my league. I'm talking out of the stratosphere. Still, she was seated right next to me, doing her best to seduce me.

Why?

She didn't give me time to think. After allowing my eyes to drink in her beauty, she pushed herself up and crawled on top of me. I felt her body slide against me and was utterly helpless when she pushed me over, straddling me and taking control.

The feeling of her skin and the unexpected yet appreciated touch of the lace as it slides across me was like Heaven. I felt so good that I couldn't help myself but reach for her hips as she pressed up right against me.

It was beyond me to stop a certain biological phenomenon from happening, but when it did, for the first time, I saw a look of shock cross her face. It was quickly replaced with her previously cool expression. She lowered herself gently and then proceeded to slide her covered flower up and down my hardened shaft.

A better person would say, Hey we should stop.

I didn't say anything. Honestly, I was still confused as to how we got here.

I continued holding her waist as she leaned forward, her hair falling forward and covering her pretty face. Despite the exhilaration caused by her actions, her face was still cool. She tucked a strand of hair behind her ears as she looked into my eyes.

"This is what I am offering you. Do you accept it?"

I was confused. When I didn't respond she called my name.

"Jake?"

I blinked several times. "What do you mean?"

She pressed herself up to her full height and as she looked down at me, she continued running herself up and down me. She was making it really hard to think straight.

"I am offering myself to you. Do you know why?"

"No."

"Very well. To be blunt, I want you to stop seeing my daughter."

It was at this moment that my mind suddenly cleared and everything made sense. Well, all except one thing.

Ginger has often spoken about her mom. From the stories she spun, Julia was definitely cold and difficult to approach, but she wasn't vindictive. Now, trying to seduce and steal your child's lover (albeit was just that one time) is vindictive. Definitely, vindictive.

"Why?" I wasn't foolish enough to think that a woman as impressive as Julia Plades would suddenly find herself head over heels for me. So, what was her reasoning?

"Jake, I'm sure that you're aware, part of the reason I sent my sons out here was to observe you."

I nodded.

"Good. From what I can tell, you're not a bad person per se. Regardless, that doesn't mean that I want a strange man in an even stranger situation to be involved with my daughter. What I would like to offer you is this—I will offer my body to you at any time in any place as long as you stop your affair with Ginger. If that's not enough, I am willing to pay you $10 million dollars and still offer my sexual services to you for as long as you desire. Will you accept these conditions?"

I'm not going to lie, hearing that I'd be getting a windfall like this and all I had to do was stop my non-existent relationship with her daughter and I even got a crap ton of cash to boot was enough to tempt even the stoutest of hearts. Still, I couldn't in good conscience go with it.

Noticing the change in me, she stopped grinding on me. I took this opportunity to push myself up and sit her down on the couch next to me.

Although I was loathed to do it, I also promptly closed her robe but didn't forcibly tie it back together.

When I sat back in my own corner, I was suddenly clearheaded.

Julia looked at me. Her twitching eyebrow was the only indication of her frustration.

"What's wrong? Am I not attractive enough for you? I promise that you won't be disappointed in my body or my performance. If it is an age thing then we can figure that out."

"No. You have the wrong idea, Julia. It's not anything like that."

"Then what's wrong? Do you want more money? Are you worried that I won't be able to satisfy your lust? I'm willing to do anything, so just name your price." Julia wasn't the type of person to think that money solved everything. She was cold, yes. But I was beginning to suspect that under that frosted exterior resided a heart warmer than a summer's day.

"Julia, stop. It's not like that. I don't need anything because it's not necessary."

"Not necessary? Why do you say that?"

"Before I answer. I'd like to ask you something. Is that okay?"

"Fine. Ask."

"Why go this far? You're married and from what I can tell it is a happy relationship. Why would you throw all of that away for someone like me?"

She sighed and then picked up her glass of wine. "You don't know yet because your child hasn't been born. Parents will do anything for their children. To me, trading my body, my pride, my money and my marriage is a small price to pay for the continued happiness and safety of my child."

She was right, I didn't get it. Did she honestly think that Ginger would be happy to find out that Julia and I had slept together? I don't think so.

"Julia, honestly, I think you misunderstand my relationship with Ginger."

"How so?"

"We don't have one other than being friends, new roommates and this baby."

"I don't believe you. I've seen the way she looks at you. You must know and considering what happened, what's the harm of a small dalliance between you two?" She obviously held a strong resentment towards me if she thought of me this way (not that I could say much to defend myself, obviously).

"Yes. I'm aware of Ginger's feelings. She's a little sweet on me but that will pass. The first and last time that we have had that sort of relationship was when she got pregnant and I'm not looking to overcomplicate my life any further. Ginger and I are friends. Nothing more. I promise."

She watched me carefully for several minutes. It was a bit awkward to be stared at by a woman in her underwear but I made due.

After a while she placed her drink down and stood to leave.

"You may leave now."

That was the last thing she said to me before disappearing into the bedroom and closing the door.

On the way back to the main house, I heard something hard hit the wall from inside Julia's bedroom. I was right next to the window so I peeked inside.

Right there, on the bed, I saw Julia, her robe discarded and balled in a corner, pounding her closed fists on the bed while her face was jammed in a pillow while she screamed.

"Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! How could I be so stupid? Oh, I'm so embarrassed, I could die!" She screamed once more and then buried her face into the pillow.

Seeing this side of her was like having a bucket of cold water poured on me. I was feeling one way one second and then a completely different way the next second.

So, this was the person underneath that cold facade. She was more like her daughter than I realized.

I turned and walked away, leaving her to painfully relive that last half hour in peace.

What a complicated woman.

Chapter 11

Jacob Aspen

The following morning, Julia, for the first time since arriving, ate breakfast with us. She normally kept herself an arms-length away, emotionally, so no one other than Ginger really knew her. But after the debacle that occurred, she showed up fresh faced and, dare I say it, warm. She smiled sweetly and it took all of us by surprise. Of course, it's better if you can get along with your roommates anyway so we all took it in stride.

Before Toni and I left for the day, Julia pulled me aside.

"I'd appreciate it if you kept what happened last night between the two of us." Her eyes were cold but it was offset by the uncharacteristic flushing on her cheeks. I remembered watching her little temper tantrum and smiled to myself.

"Don't worry. What happened will never leave my lips. I promise." And I meant it, too. What was there to gain by telling anyone? If anything, it would only hurt my relationship with the future mother of my child, not help it.

Julia and I parted ways and Toni and I went into the office. Because it was still a weekend, we didn't have much to do but it was still more effective to work in the office than to try to get things done at home.

We were alone in the office but that didn't mean that we had any time to play.

"I want to have a baby."

We had been working in perfect silence for maybe 2-hours when Toni suddenly spoke. I looked up at her confused as to why she would be saying that.

"Huh?"

She placed her pen down on my desk and sat back, stretching her back in a way that made her enormous breasts move in an utterly mesmerizing fashion.

"I. Want. To. Have. A. Baby."

"I heard that. Why?"

"I don't know. I think it's time that I settle down."

"Settle down? With who? You're not seeing anyone."

"Well, duh! But that's okay. I'll just have you knock me up."

"Like hell I will." There had to be a limit to how funny she thought she was. There was no way that I was going to do that when I had Rachel at home.

"You don't have much of a choice. Don't make me force you."

"Force me? You and what army?"

"I don't need an army. I just need...this!"

I don't know how she did it, but suddenly she was half naked and I found myself pressed up against the back of my chair. Her face was jammed down the front of me and try as I might, I couldn't shake off the amazing feeling of her licking me up and down above my pants.

"Ah ha! See? I told you, I could make you." She gloated while she pulled my hard cock out of my pants.

It took less than a second for her to descend upon me. "Fuck! I've missed this bad boy so much."

Toni wasn't messing around. She was rough and fucked me hard. In fact, she was fucking me so hard that she ended up moving my chair until it rammed up against the wall over and over again. I was just grateful that no one was in the office with us.

She held my face between her hands and stared into my eyes. "Look at me, Jacob." I did. "Do you see? Do you see me?" I nodded. "Good. Now cum for me, baby. Fill me to the brim."

I felt her squeeze down on me and like a goddess in control of everything in her sphere, her words had an immediate effect on me.

I came buckets inside of her as she squeezed down on me for dear life. Her lips were on mine as she smiled triumphantly.

"Let's do this every day."

She kissed me again and again.

Neither of us cared about work as we sat there, with our pants down, making out in my office chair.

***

One week passed and I found myself home alone for the second time in as many weeks. At least, that's what I thought.

The girls had all gone out. Rachel and Toni wanted to take Julia around town and Julia had some things she wanted to get for Ginger and the baby. Apparently, Ginger wasn't feeling that great so they made her stay home.

Again, I was in my office when someone suddenly appeared behind me.

"Jake? Can we like, talk or something?"

It was Ginger. She was standing at my door, looking cute in her cut off t-shirt that showed her little baby bump and the tiny little shorts that were somewhat inappropriate but pretty cute. Her hair was done up in a messy bun and she looked at me with a wide-eyed innocence that was just too cute for words.

Immediately, I sat my stuff down and turned towards her. "Sure. What do you want to talk about?"

"Can I...can I show you something in my room?"

Worried that something had happened, I agreed immediately. I followed her up the stairs, regretting that action because her cute little backside was in my face the entire time. I really hoped Rachel came back soon because I was itching for a little loving.

Once inside her room, I was assaulted by the smell of peppermint and the piles of baby gear and motherhood stuff that had been collected. She might have half of a famous department store in her room right now.

She motioned to the mountain of goods. "This isn't why I called you up here."

I smiled as she motioned for me to sit down on the queen-sized bed with the fluffy pink top. "Is your savings going to be okay? You went a little overboard on the baby supplies." I laughed when I spoke.

She shyly pressed her head down on her chest and mumbled, "I didn't buy this stuff. It was delivered. My brothers and their girlfriends bought all of this."

I looked around again. I was overwhelmed at first but now I was just floored. Talk about excessive.

Coming back to my senses, I asked "So what did you want to talk about?"

She nervously fiddled with her thumbs and fingers while biting her lip. It took quite a while before she was able to speak and when she did, she kind of blurted the words out so loud that I felt like I was being yelled at. "Do you like me?"

I looked at her, confused by her question. It wasn't that I didn't know what she was asking but I thought we had made an agreement. She knew my situation with Rachel. Why would she ask that now of all times?

I sighed as I gathered my thoughts. "Ginger, obviously I like you. I think that you're cute and your fun. You're energetic and you're great to have around. But..."

"I knew there was going to be a 'but'." Her tone was so self-demoralizing that I froze for a moment.

"...But I'm married to your best friend."

"I know. I know but still..."

"What's going on Ginger?"

She chewed on her lip a bit more and after working up the courage, she finally looked at me. "I think I'm in love with you and I want you to be my boyfriend. At the very least, I want you to have sex with me from time to time."

Despite her words being batshit crazy, her tone and stare was earnest. I found it difficult to be so lighthearted when she was putting her best foot forward.

"Ginger, I can't."

"Why?"

"You know why."

"Do you hate me?"

"Of course, I don't hate you."

"But you won't even have sex with me."

"You say it like it's that easy."

"It is that easy. Please. I'm so horny and I'm gross. Look at me." She made a motion over her exposed stomach like it was four time larger than what it was. I personally thought her barely noticeable bump was cute. She obviously thought otherwise.

"I am looking at you. You're beautiful."

"But not beautiful enough, right?" I didn't know what to say to that. "God! Why is it always me? I fall for the wrong guys all the time." She stood up and started pacing.

I watched her closely. I knew that she was all up in her feelings or whatever so I just let her do her thing without mindlessly interrupting.

"Did you know that I met a guy when we were out last weekend? No? Well, I did. He talked to me like I was a goddess. He said all the right words. He had on the right clothes. He had nice looks. He was amazing. But guess what? When he found out that I was pregnant, he couldn't get away from me fast enough. That's how guys look at me now. The only ones that want a part of me are weirdos with weirdo fetishes. Besides, I don't think it's a good idea for me to be out there anyway. What if I catch some disease or something? That stuff is everywhere now. Is that what you want? Huh? You want your baby mama, God I hate that term, anyway...do you want me to catch some disease from some bum on the street? Is that what you want? Because I'll go do it. I'll go out there right now and have sex with a guy I don't know just so that I don't have to feel so disgusting anymore. I want to feel beautiful. I want to feel like someone cares about me."

And suddenly, we have waterworks.

I'm not going to pretend like I knew what was really going on in her head but I feel like it was just a collection of things. She young and pregnant so she can't go out and do the things that people her age normally due, despite being in a new city. She has no future plans and now she practically living with strangers. It was a lot for anyone to deal with, not to mention someone that was only 24.

When I moved towards her, she was standing still and shaking. I tilted her head up so that she'd look at me. "Ginger, you're not disgusting. You're beautiful. I think you look amazing. I really do."

Her words were choked with sobs, "So why won't you be with me?"

I felt bad but I had to tell her the truth. "Ginger, come on. Don't make this more difficult than it has to be. You know that my relationship with Rachel is not rock solid. If she finds out that I'm sleeping with you, she will lose it. It would ruin everything."

"I know."

"If you know then let's stop this, okay. Let's just stay friends."

"No. You don't understand. I know."

The way that she said it made me pause. "Know...what?"

"I know about you and Toni. I've seen you two together."

I felt cold sweat racing down my back but I didn't let my surprise show on my face. "What are you talking about?"

She pushed me back so I was forced to let her go. Her eyes were blazing. "I saw you two after dinner the other night. I came to get a glass of water and she was all over you."

I remember that. I was unloading the dishwasher and Toni came up behind me and started pinching my butt. I was nervous there for a second. I thought she really did know what was going on, but if it was just that... "Toni is an incurable flirt. Rachel knows about it."

"Mhm. Maybe. But if she'd do that, who is to say she wouldn't do more? Who is to say that she won't try to take advantage of you one day? At least with me, the worst has already happened. I'm already pregnant so if we did have sex from time to time, it wouldn't be that strange. It's better than getting weak one day and fucking Rachel's little sister."

It was like she had read it all in a book. Did she know about Toni's seduction or was she just guessing? I didn't want to take my chances.

"It's all just your imagination. Toni would never do that to Rachel."

"You're wrong. I've seen the way she looks at you when she thinks no one is looking. That girl, Sarah, is the same way. They want you. They want you super bad."

"You're imagining things."

"Nah uh. That's not going to work on me. I know what I've seen. Just trust me on this. One day, you're going to be weak and you're going to give in to temptation with one or both of them. Instead of letting that day come, use me. I love you. I won't ever hurt you. Besides, I think it'll bring us closer, so..." She took my hand and placed it on her stomach and held it there as she continued her pitch. "...For our child and for me, please say yes. Just say yes."

I'm a lot of things, but a neglectful father wasn't going to be one of them. I had always felt that there was a barrier between Ginger and I. Maybe this would help tear that wall down. Maybe we would get closer. It couldn't hurt.

Right?

Knowing that she was winning me over, she smiled. While my hand was still on her stomach, she reached down and started fiddling with my belt.

"Jake, I promise that I'll keep this a secret. I promise that I'm not going to expect you to leave Rachel for me. All that I ask is that from time to time, you give me a little love. Deal?"

She was speaking, right? What was she saying? I was too engrossed in the feeling of her skin and the hardness of her bump that I didn't pay any attention. My child was growing inside of there and it made me feel powerful. It made me feel like I could take on the world and for that little life, I'd do it, too. I finally think I understand what Julia meant. You really would do anything for your child.

Ginger helped remove the remainder of my clothes and then I took off hers. She lied down on the bed on her side. "Be gentle, okay?"

I nodded and then crawled in bed behind her. I draped my arm over hers and she pulled me closer, wrapping herself in my embrace. Her back pressed against my stomach as her hair tickled my nose. She reached down between her legs and guided my cock into her wetness.

I clenched my teeth. Fuck! She's so tight that it almost hurts.

I felt her fingers digging into my arm. "It hurts. Please don't move."

I didn't. I held her in place as she struggled to accept me.

"If it's too much, we don't have to continue."

"No. I want this. I really do but it's just too big." She reached out and pulled something from her drawer. It was a little pocket vibrator that looked like an egg. It turned on with a deep vroom before disappearing between the front of her legs.

"Oh God!" Despite the pain that I caused; the addition of the vibrator got her moving her hips ever so slowly. "It hurts so good. Don't stop, okay? Don't stop."

With exaggerated care, I slowly filled her up from behind. The vibrator was doing most of the work because my movements were slow and controlled, still, a few minutes in she started to thrash.

When she came, she grabbed my hand and bit the meat between my pointer and my thumb.

"More." She was in a trance. "Fuck me harder."

Not to be a buzzkill but I didn't want to hurt her.

"Fuck my ass!" She reached out and grabbed a bottle of lube from her drawer and then tossed it over her shoulder.

When I slid into her, I was assaulted by a powerful pressure that was accompanied by a loud grunt and squeal from Ginger.

Now that I was in her backside, I didn't hold back.

I fucked her like I owned her little ass and, in that moment, I did.

"I'm cumming, again! I'm cumming!"

We released together. She shook as my seed filled up her behind and I moaned feeling her body accept me so deeply.

We lied there for what felt like hours.

We didn't talk, because what was there to say. We both knew that we were wrong but it was also a wrong that we would keep doing, regardless of the consequences.

"I love you, Jake."

I didn't say it back because to do so would've been a lie.

***

"That about does it."

I was finishing up some work outside. The landscaping was nice but I really wanted a place to do some exercises outdoors. So, we (mostly I) built a sand pit with a pull up bar, a bar for dips and some other circuit training stuff. It wasn't fancy but it was functional.

Looking over my work, I heard the sound of clapping coming from behind me.

I turned and saw a stunning blonde in business attire smiling at me with a portfolio under her arm.

"Sarah? What brings you by?"

Sarah and I had a pretty good relationship even without the sex. She was smart and funny and a general fun person to be around.

She came by often, using the excuse of seeing Toni, but more often than not, she'd find her way to me and we'd chat.

"I just wanted to bring you some things from the office."

"Ah. I guess having a vacation is only a pipe dream for me, huh?" I took the materials and then invited her in the house. I poured myself a glass of juice and offered her a glass. We sat at the counter drinking as I reviewed the documents.

"So, do you know what you're having yet?"

I shook my head. It was only a few weeks before the baby was due. I wanted to take some time off to get some things done around the house. It was the perfect time, too. Because Julia flew back home, hoping to knock some sense into Darwin. Rachel was busy at work and Toni was training a new batch of recruits. Only Ginger was around and she had been on bedrest for the last couple of days.

"No. She wanted to be surprised."

"My. That's old fashioned." Only Sarah could make being catty sound so sweet.

I smiled at her as she averted her eyes.

"Hey, listen. Do you have any time this weekend? I know things are hectic but if you have a moment, I could use your help with some things."

"Sure. I can make some time. What do you need?"

"Oh, nothing big. So, don't worry. I just want to get your take on a few things. By the way, Miranda and Brooklyn are coming up next week. Would you mind if I swung by with them?"

"No, that's fine."

The rest of the week came and went. Ginger and the baby were doing fine. What really helped though was when Julia showed up with a disheveled and repentant Darwin in tow. He apologized to Ginger for being so hardheaded. I think that really brightened her mood to reconnect with her father.

On Saturday, I went over to Sarah's place. She told me to show up at 2:25 PM. She was very exact about the time, which isn't like her. But because she was being so exact, I showed up right on schedule.

"Hey Sarah." I let myself in. I've had a key to her place for months so I didn't have to wait for her to buzz me in.

"Come on back."

Sarah was a fiend for good manners. The fact that she didn't come out to greet me made me feel like something was wrong. I followed the sound of her voice and headed into the bedroom in the back of the apartment.

When I entered the bedroom, Sarah was draped across the bed, wearing a familiar pair of panties and a cut-off t-shirt. The pair of red tanga panties with the purple embroidery caught my eye as did the seductive way that she lied back on the bed. She beckoned to me with one finger.

I was powerless to resist.

This was the very same get up that she wore the first time that we were together. I remembered it very clearly. She invited me over, under the guise of dropping off some suitcases she left at my place. As I was taking care of some used boxes, she went to shower off. When she came back out, she was wearing these clothes. Just like then, my breath caught in my throat. She offered herself to me and I accepted.

"Sarah..."

"Welcome home, baby. Come and give momma what she wants."

Her voice was like honey. Her body was like thunder. In that moment, I was sure that I'd do anything for her.

"I thought..."

We'd been celibate for months. Our relationship was one of close friends and while I missed her body, I didn't want to do anything that would prevent us from being able to see each other.

She knew what I was thinking and smiled in a come-hither sort of way. "You thought what? That we could continue pretending like we don't love and desire each other? How long did you expect that to work? I've been driving myself crazy trying to control myself around you and I've had just about enough. Now get over here. I've got something that you're going to want to taste." As she spoke, she pulled her panties to the side, giving me a good view of her beautiful flower.

"I've missed you."

"I know, baby. I know."

"What about Rachel?"

"What about her? I'm not holding myself back for Rachel or anybody else. I've tried it and I didn't like it one bit. I'm going to live for me and the man I love now, so don't try to convince me otherwise. Come on, baby. I want you to drive that big stick into this tight little hole."

She reached for me and pulled me on top of her. She held me in place with her legs as she kissed me hungrily.

Being held by her felt so good and so natural.

"My pussy is throbbing, baby. It missed you. Eat it. Eat it good."

It was crazy how much she has changed since that first time. Back then, she was still shy and suffered from an inferiority complex that bordered on suicidal. Now, she could speak so openly about her feelings and was strong enough to struggle through pain and heartache without giving up. She was an impressive woman.

"Yes. That's it. Right there. Right there!" Her voice filled the room and only enticed me further. I wanted to do more. I had to push her buttons and I knew just how to do it.

As I ate her pussy, I began finger-banging her ass. She loved it so much that she squirted all over me. Of course, that didn't interrupt our fun. I pulled out of her ass and started fucking her wet pussy. I made a mess of her.

"Fuck me! Yes, Jacob! I'm yours! I'm yours! Ah fuck!"

When she came, she bit me neck. The shock made me cum right then and there.

"Oh my God! I can feel it inside of me. Yes. I love it, baby. Cum more for me."

Sarah had incredible stamina. We had sex three more times, each time I came deep inside of her. When we were finished, I couldn't even move.

We lied together as only our breathing filled the room.

"That was incredible. I'm so glad you came over."

"Just curious. What would you have done if I didn't come over?"

"I would've probably shown up at your house and fucked you in front of everyone."

"You would not!"

She shrugged, "You don't know how much I've been wanting you. Besides today is...no. Never mind."

She turned around and kissed me and then I pushed myself up and headed into the shower. "You coming?"

She shook her head. "I'll be there in a few minutes. I just want to rest for a bit."

I kissed her again and left as she looked at me with stars in her eyes.

I heard her whisper before I closed the door, "I love you, Jacob."

I felt unworthy to be loved by such an amazing woman. But who am I to tell her who she should love?

***

"Let's go out on a date."

Rachel and I were in the kitchen making dinner when she spoke. I know that she's felt neglected lately. The baby was coming soon so a lot of my focus has been on that. Not to mention the fact that I've reconnected with Sarah, Toni and Ginger. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't neglecting her somewhat.

"That sounds like fun. Do you have anything in mind?"

"No. I just want to be with you."

"Okay. Then how about tomorrow night?"

"Sounds great. I look forward to it."

That night was one of the rare occasions where we went on a date but hardly spoke at all. It wasn't because we were upset or lacked anything to talk about.

"Ah...that's nice."

It was because we were knee deep in mind numbing relaxation.

"Can you press a little harder there, please? Yes. That's perfect."

I'd booked a couple's massage featuring hot stones, shiatsu and therapeutic massage techniques. Currently, we were both sighing pleasurably as the stress was literally beat out of our bodies.

"This is incredible, Jake. Thanks."

All I could muster was a quick "Mhm" before floating back into my mental Utopia.

We were resting comfortably, slowly allowing the world to encroach our psyches when Rachel suggested we go check out the private sauna. I wasn't one for hot and steamy places but she wanted to give it a try so I agreed.

The moment the door closed, she stripped off her towel and laid it on the bench. I watched as she proceeded to lie down, exposing her beautiful body to the world. It wasn't long before I watched sweat as it glistened on her body. Her long hair was held up in a bun. Her lithe body and small breasts looked perfect in the soft glow of the light. The steam in the room partly obscured her, making me feel like I was wading through a mystical plane fighting to catch a glimpse of a beautiful nymph.

As I moved closer, I found it hard to not get aroused. I didn't know if this was what she was going for but my eyes were glued to her.

I stood over her, my hard cock straining against the small towel that struggled to hold on by its last few remaining threads.

"I can't believe how beautiful you are."

Her eyes were closed as she lied back. But I saw her smile as her eyes fluttered open. "Don't just say it. Show me." She reached up and pulled me down. "We don't have much time so don't waste it staring at me. Make love to me."

She pulled the towel off of my waist and gently stroked my hardness. I lied atop her, kissing her body and working my way up to her lips.

When I slid inside of her, she moaned in such a sexy way that I nearly came right on the spot. It took a herculean effort to refrain, alas I was able to hold on by the skin of me teeth.

In that small closet type sauna, we made love. Her hands held me to her as her body wrapped around me. With the hard slats pressed against her back, my weight was too much for her so I sat up and she rode me while pressing her chest to me.

She turned around and I got a great view of her perfect bouncy ass, as she rode me in a seated reverse-cowgirl position.

My arms went around her chest as my face was buried in her neck.

Our voices were soft but there was a powerful vibration in the air. This vibration was thick with our lust for each other. We were both reaching our limits.

She pressed herself down harder and faster. I felt her squeezing me in a rhythmic way.

"That's it, baby. You want to cum for me? Give me all of that sticky cum."

I nibbled on her ear. "I'm close, baby. Cum with me."

She started bouncing faster, moving with shorter strokes. "I'm almost there. I'm almost there! Fuuuuuccccck!"

As I felt her body grow tense like a rod, I emptied myself inside of her. She continued sitting on my lap as my cum started leaking out of her, but neither of us cared. I held her by the stomach and she pressed her hand against my hand.

"I hope this is it."

"What?"

"I hope I get pregnant tonight."

"You really want to have a baby. Don't you?"

She nodded. "I didn't before, but I do now."

"You know, you're not in competition with Ginger."

"I know. But it doesn't feel that way. Besides, it looks like everyone has baby fever."

"Really?"

"Yeah. Not just me, even Toni has it."

I didn't say that I already knew. If I did it could create more than a few problems. I decided to just let sleeping dogs lie.

"Come on. Let's clean up and get out of here. I'm hungry."

As we cleaned up our mess, I thought back to how all of this started. At the time, Rachel didn't want anything to do with me. I was fighting a losing battle and had just about threw in the towel. Now, after the intervention of Toni, my involvement with Amara and Sarah, Rachel and I had grown closer as a couple. I can't say that I went about this in an honorable or gentlemanly way, but as things stand right now, I have no regrets.

We left the spa hand-in-hand. Rachel looked incredibly happy and that smile of hers was worth more than my soul. I would continue to cherish it until the end of time.

"I love you, Rachel."

Her smile was so pure that I felt like it was purging my sins.

"I love you, Jake!"

Chapter 12

Jacob Aspen

"She's so beautiful. Oh Jake, look at her! Look at our daughter." Ginger's face was red and blotchy. It had been a hard birth but she'd managed. Right now, our daughter was tightly wrapped in a blanket and pressed to Ginger's chest. I didn't know whose eyes were more swollen, Ginger's or our daughter's.

As the nurses helped clean up the mess, the three of us were in our own world.

Ginger went into labor late last night. After a couple of heart stopping moments, she delivered a perfectly healthy little bundle of love.

Alannah Julia Aspen: 7-pounds 4-ounces, 21-inches with 10 fingers and 10 toes. She had a little pair of brown eyes that looks so cute in her round little face that I nearly cried.

...

...

Okay. I did cry. Okay? I cried the moment I held her. I cried like a baby and refused to let her go.

In that moment, when I first held her, my mind foresaw her entire future. I imagined her first bottle, her first solid foods, her first words, her first steps, her first day of school, her first dance, her first day of college, her graduation, her first job, her marriage, our first dance, and her first child. In the two seconds I held her, I had already lived a life with her and I wanted, no, I needed more time.

The tears wouldn't stop falling so when a nurse suggested that I could call in one of the army of visitors, I took that opportunity to get myself together.

I handed Alannah back to Ginger and I left.

In the months leading up to the pregnancy, things were complicated. Ginger and I met on countless occasions. Sometimes we were in the office. Sometimes in her room. We even hooked up in the kitchen once and the laundry room another time. The fact was, we had pushed the boundaries and were lucky enough not to get caught. I still didn't fall in love with her but I was definitely a bit tender on her.

But all of that means nothing now. Now that Alannah was here, I saw Ginger in an entirely new light. She was the mother of my precious baby. She was now the Mother of Angels as far as I was concerned. There would be nothing I wouldn't do for her.

The first person I invited in was Julia. Ginger and I talked about this before. First would be Julia, then Rachel, then Darwin and after that, Toni and Sarah could come in. Her brothers and their girlfriends were flying out, so if they showed up soon enough, they would beat Toni and Sarah into the room.

"Y-you named her after me? Oh, my baby girl." Sobs leaked out of Julia like a sieve. She held her granddaughter in one hand while awkwardly holding Ginger in another.

This was another surprise. Ginger and I had been workshopping names. If it was a boy, we were going to name him after my dad, but if it was a girl, we'd name her after Julia. I had no issues with that. In fact, I thought the name sounded nice. Alannah Julia Aspen. Yeah. I liked that.

Ginger and Julia's relation went through a crazy metamorphosis. Julia no longer pushed Ginger in any direction. She was still an imposing woman but around Ginger and me, she was a normal overbearing and caring mother. Now that Alannah was here, I guess you could add doting grandmother to that title.

When Rachel came in, she was wowed by the cute little bundle. She held her and introduced herself as Aunty Rachel. I never knew seeing my wife holding a baby that wasn't hers would be so sexy. If she wasn't pregnant already, I was sure as hell going to knock her up as soon as we got home. I watched her play with my daughter and my heart exploded with love.

When Darwin came in, he was no longer the powerful imposing man that I had met. He was a little clumsy with children so he sat down as he held Alannah. He struggled valiantly but, in the end, he too succumbed to the shame that is the Man Tears. He cried (not as powerfully as I did) in undisclosed joy.

Toni, Sarah and Ginger's brothers all made appearances. It was a packed house.

The first few weeks were really trial and error. I had taken paternity leave at work. Not that it amounted to much. All that really meant was that I had to work from home a bunch of the time. Sarah would bring me work to do and I'd do it. Still, I got to stay close to my family and that was what mattered.

We learned to function as a team. Those first few nights, I slept in the room with Ginger and Alannah. Eventually, we agreed to rearrange the rooms. Now, Ginger was in the adjoined suite with Rachel and I and Toni took over her room. It was just temporary so we didn't have to repaint the walls or anything. It's just that neither of us wanted to be too far away from Alannah and Rachel was getting tired of me sharing a bed with another woman.

It's understandable.

Slowly, we got in the grove. Ginger moved back to her room and we took turns caring for Alannah through the night. We had a pretty good rotation going on. We all (Ginger, Rachel, Toni, Julia, Darwin and I) took shifts through the night. It was hard work but with everyone so involved things were much easier for the two first-time parents.

I was outside, working out in the back yard when I heard a sultry voice call for me.

"Jake. Can you come in here for a moment?" Julia was standing at the door to her little cottage. Her face was relaxed and she was smiling sweetly. Her long hair was hanging loosely and she looked like she'd lost about 10-years.

I picked up my towel and wiped the sweat off of my body.

"You're up early."

"I'm usually up at this time."

"Oh. Sorry."

She chuckled. "Why are you apologizing?"

"I normally work out at this time. If I knew that you were awake, I wouldn't have come out here."

She winked suggestively, "Don't worry. I only check you out a little while I have my morning coffee."

I was at a loss for words. Ever since that night, Julia would tease me and lightly flirt with me. I still didn't think that it meant anything. Even though that was the case, having such suggestive words come from someone like her made me feel like a teenager crushing on my substitute teacher. I couldn't help it that I blushed as I followed her into her cottage.

I might have a little crush on Julia but I wouldn't do anything about it.

After being invited inside, Julia informed me that Darwin needs to head back home. Their sons were in charge of the construction part of the business when he was away but he couldn't stay long. She also told me that she'd be leaving for a few weeks in order to catch up on some work of her own. She had already told Ginger but she wanted to tell me too. It seems like she saw me as a sort of son-in-law now. I guess I was part of the family. Cool.

Later that week, after taking Ginger and Alannah out, I came home to find Rachel looking somewhat suspicious. She was standing in the front room, holding something in her hand and pacing. When I called out to her, she practically jumped out of her skin.

"Hey Rachel." Ginger greeted her like normal. Despite the change in our relationships, Rachel and Ginger were still pretty close.

"H-hey." Rachel wasn't herself.

"What's going on, babe?"

She shook her head. "N-nothing. Nothing at all."

Ginger and I looked at her suspiciously but decided it wasn't worth calling her out on.

"Okay. Listen, Alannah needs to eat and I've got some reading I want to do. I'm going to go upstairs." She kissed me on the cheek and then took Alannah upstairs.

Now that Rachel and I were alone, she practically raced into the kitchen. I followed behind her. Once inside, she pulled out a large glass of wine and poured from an opened bottle that we drank from last night.

Standing over the sink, she took in a mouthful of wine and then froze. Her eyes bulged and she spit the entire mouthful into the sink.

"Rachel? What the hell is wrong with you?" Even I was taken aback by her strange actions.

She shook her head and then placed the wine glass on the counter and pushed it far away. When she looked at me, she seemed distraught.

"Jake, we need to talk."

I suddenly felt cold chills move over my spine. Those were never good words. I waited for her to speak.

"Y-you love me, right?"

"Of course."

"You love me more than Ginger, right?"

"Of course. Babe, what's going on?"

She took a deep breath, "I'm pregnant."

I blinked once, twice, three times. Did I hear her correctly?

"Pregnant?"

She nodded seriously, "Yeah." She opened her hand, in it was a pregnancy test. It read positive.

I looked at the test and then back up at her. I was at a loss for words so I showed my joy by picking her up and swinging her in a circle.

She screamed, "Jake! Jake! Stop." She laughed.

To say that I was happy was putting it mildly. Just the other day, we had been talking about the possibility of scheduling an appointment with a fertility specialist. Now, out of the blue, she's pregnant.

"I wanted to say something sooner, but I wasn't sure. I figured I'd wait. I'm sorry that I didn't tell you in a more romantic or memorable way." She was crying but I knew that they were tears of relief and joy.

I held her close. "Oh, my love. Please don't apologize. I'm so happy that I could scream."

"What's going on you two?"

At that moment, Toni and Ginger came in. They must've heard her screaming when I spun her around.

Alannah was pressed against Ginger's chest, looking around with her big beautiful brown eyes.

I took a moment to get my mind together. This was pretty big news. I didn't know how to say it. I was so happy that I was shaking.

Rachel held my hand tightly. They noticed the tears in their eyes and they descended on us in a flash.

"What's wrong, Rachel?"

"I swear to God, if Jacob hurt you, I'll bury him in the ground right now."

Rachel chuckled at their overprotectiveness while I grimaced at Toni's casual threat. "No. No. It's nothing like that. I swear." She looked at me and took a deep breath. There was so much love shining in her eyes that my breath caught in my throat.

I nodded to reassure her and then together, we turned to Toni and Ginger.

Rachel smiled, "I'm pregnant."

There was a beat of silence and then a loud shout from the two of them. They were so loud that Alannah started crying. I took her from Ginger and ushered her into a quieter corner of the room while the girls celebrated.

Toni and Ginger laughed and cried, especially Ginger. She had felt so alienated from Rachel because of the pregnancy, not to mention her crush on me. She held Rachel so tight that I was afraid she'd crush the smaller woman. But Rachel was no slouch. She held Ginger with just the same amount of force. Toni was right on their heels. The moment Rachel was released, she squeezed her too. The three of them launched into a complicated conversation about what to expect and what their plans were.

I didn't get involved. But that was fine. I didn't feel left out. I had my baby girl in my arms and she was the sweetest thing on earth.

When there was a lull in the conversation, Toni came over to speak to me. I was expecting to get grilled and to be called a cheater and this and that underneath her breath. Instead, she held me close and kissed my lips. It wasn't a passionate kiss or anything but still. Doing that in front of Rachel was risky. I glanced at Rachel and she wasn't even paying attention.

"I'm so happy for you, Jacob. Thank you for doing this. Thank you. Thank you."

It was a little weird being thanked for something like this by Toni but I appreciated the fact that she wasn't trying to scratch my face off.

Alannah started to nod off so I took her upstairs and gently laid her in her crib. After leaving with the monitor, I found the three women right where I left them. The only difference was that now there was an opened bottle of champagne and four flutes.

Out of the four glasses, only one had something bubbly in it. I understood Rachel and Ginger, who was breastfeeding, but I didn't get why Toni wasn't drinking.

She saw the questions in my eyes and shrugged. "Solidarity."

I just nodded along and toasted with everyone else.

It was one of the happiest moments of my life.

Things were really moving now. Rachel decided to employ the same OBGYN that Ginger used, which was nice because we knew what we were getting ourselves into. Julia came back and when she heard the news, she was very happy for the two of us. After pulling me aside, she made me promise not to neglect her daughter even though Rachel was now pregnant. Afraid that she'd do something ridiculous like offer her body to me again, I quickly agreed.

Alannah was growing fast and every day with her felt like a dream. I only had so much time off work, so I wanted to make the most of it. I spent as much time as I possibly could with Alannah. I was your stereotypical doting father. I got why it was so easy for Darwin to become putty in Ginger's hands. This little girl had my heart. There was no question about that.

In-between Dad-time, errands, family time and miscellaneous work tasks, I had to find time to tell Sarah about the baby. When I did, she was so happy that she started to cry. She had come over to drop off some more work for me to do on my time off. I'm not going to lie; I was starting to feel taken advantage of. Anyway, when I sat her down and told her, I was expecting to see her struggling to hold back her feelings. Instead, she practically beamed with joy. She ran off to find Rachel. Now there were four women doting on Rachel while I was pushed to the wayside.

It's okay. At least my daughter loves me.

...

Ahem! Anyway, our house was lively. Rachel and Toni's parents were planning on stopping by in a month or so. We planned to tell them about the baby then. They already knew about Alannah so the news that their daughter (the actually woman I was married to) was pregnant would likely be happy news for them.

The girls all left, leaving me and Alannah alone for the rest of the day. We played, I sang to her, she napped and ate, then after changing about a million and one diapers, she was out like a light. The girls didn't come back until it was nearly 9. By that point, I was dog tired so I was already in bed.

A few weeks passed; Rachel was getting used to being pregnant. Apparently, Ginger was a little miffed because other than one morning when something from the previous night had upset her belly, Rachel hadn't had an ounce of morning sickness. I didn't get why she'd be mad about that, but oh well.

Sarah had been coming over more regularly. She spent a lot of time with Toni though so I didn't see her too much.

It was late in the afternoon one day when I got called into the backyard by Toni. When I went out there, Sarah and she were sitting on the small lawn table. They both had this look in their eyes that made me cautious to even approach.

Toni, with her oval face and soft features, looked absolutely terrified. Whereas, Sarah, with her angelic-like appeal, looked completely lost. It was odd to see them both together like this in such a way.

"What's going on girls?" I cautiously approached them, thinking it would be best to get the lay of the land before I committed.

"Jacob, we both need to tell you something. You should probably sit down."

"Yeah. Pull up a chair, sweetie."

I did as she suggested and sat down. Now it was too late for me to run away.

Toni and Sarah held hands while their faces looked somewhat pale. After several starts and stops when both of them tried speaking at different times only to lose the words they were trying to say, I finally had to ask, "What's wrong?"

Sarah shook her head, "Something has happened."

Toni chimed in, "Yeah. Something pretty big."

Admittedly, Toni could be a touch dramatic, but Sarah was more grounded. If she says something has happened, I believed it. I felt my heart pumping and could taste my blood in my throat. I didn't know what it was but, I had to be prepared for anything.

The spoke in perfect unison, "We're pregnant."

...

...

...

...

...

Okay. I wasn't ready for that.

I sat there, my mind trying to take in what just happened. Did they say what I think they said? Pregnant? Both of them? How? When?

Before I could ask, Sarah pouted, "Are you angry at us?"

I didn't know what I was feeling but I knew that I wasn't angry. Scared? Yes. Worried? Yes. Was I pretty sure that my marriage was officially over? Yes—hell yes!

Still, what did I expect? I had been having an affair with the two of them for well over a year. It was only a matter of time that something big happened. The fact that it all sort of clumped together was a bit odd but oddities have become a common part of my life for a while now. I just had to learn to live with it.

The girls were both shaken. They looked at me like lost puppies. I felt that I needed to reassure them.

"Girls, I'm not mad. I'm happy. I'm so incredibly happy that you two are pregnant with my babies."

Toni sighed while Sarah wiped a tear from her eye. "When did this happen? When did you know?"

Toni was the one that answered. "I don't know about Sarah, but I found out a week before Rachel did."

"I found out two weeks before."

I looked at the two of them in shock. It's been a month now. They've been holding this in all of this time? That's too sad.

I stood up and reached out to them. They both pounced upon me in their relief and desperation. There was a lot of tears and a lot of sobbing. Eventually, they both calmed down.

"What are we going to tell my sister?"

I didn't hesitate. "We need to tell her the truth."

"I don't think that's going to go over well."

"Probably not. But what other choice do we have?"

"I think Jacob's right, Toni. Rachel deserves to know the truth."

I nodded. It wasn't going to be easy. It wasn't going to be painless. There was going to be a lot of crying, screaming, punching and kicking, but in the end, this had to happen.

Facing the entrance to the back of the house, I held their hands. The sultry vixen on my left and the angelic siren on my right. I glanced at them both before finding my resolve.

I nodded, my heartbeat was steady and my breathing was calm. It all begins here or maybe it all ends here. Either way, we had to take this step forward, together.

Hand-in-hand, we approached the house. What awaited us, no one knew. But one thing was certain, in my life I had affected many people. Some good. Some bad. I have lied, cheated and stolen. When I started on this journey of revenge and sexual revolution, I considered myself a good man—a gentleman even. Now, I wasn't that person anymore. I had become too scarred, too altered, too...tainted by my thoughts, choices and actions. I wasn't a gentleman, I was just a man—flawed, petty, full of hope and trying to make the most out of my life. That means that I will hurt people. I will save people. I will be a good guy. And I will be a bad guy.

In the end, I would just be...me. Tainted or not, I was going to be Jacob Aspen.

And being me—that was something I could live with.

The End.

Epilogue

One year has passed and surprisingly, I'm still alive. Honestly, it was touch and go a little bit there. When Rachel found out, as you can imagine, she was none too thrilled to find out that I had been having an affair—that is, several affairs. I think what hit her the hardest was that I had been sleeping with Toni. That really didn't go over well.

Ginger was shocked, but apparently, she had never really bought the whole "Toni is just a flirt thing" so she didn't stay surprised for long.

Julia remained uninvolved with our drama so at least that was a win.

It took about four months of organizing my life around not being around Rachel before she broke down and called me back home. According to her, she'd rather have me in her life than not have me.

I can't say that she approved but as the pregnancy progressed and she didn't have me, or Toni to lean on, she started to feel too depressed and decided that because it was originally her affair that had started this whole mess, she would take a super tiny portion of the responsibility and at least let me come home. It took another 2-months before she would even speak to me, but let's not go into that right now.

In the time that I wasn't at home, I was living with Sarah. Her pregnancy was especially tough so she needed a lot of care. Toni spent a lot of time there too because it was just easier than staying in that big house with Rachel's anger.

About a month before Sarah's delivery date, Rachel suggested that she move in with us. I wanted to suggest it when I moved back but figured I was on too thin of ice to really make such a shameless request like that. However, Sarah readily accepted and moved in.

Because things were so abnormal, Ginger decided that around this time was the perfect time to confess her love for me and begged Rachel to let her in on the whole Jake-harem thing. By this point, Rachel was a little numb to the earth-shattering revelations so she gave in without much of a fight.

Honestly, I think the fact that no one had to hide their feelings anymore was actually a good thing. Rachel and I were still married, and she was my priority, they all knew that, but it was nice to be able to walk into the kitchen and see Sarah with her round little belly. She'd waddle over to me and kiss my lips deeply. The look of love in her eyes was moving. Now that Toni didn't have to hide her feelings, she was less rambunctious and more level-headed. She'd often hold my hand and just sit quietly. Ginger liked to go out on dates. She liked places like museums and enjoyed me taking her to outside shows. Rachel, well Rachel was the same. She was loving and affectionate. I think she felt that she had to be even more loving because of the other girls. This might sound hypocritical coming from me, but I never let her feelings go to waste. I always let her know how much I appreciated and loved her.

My life was complicated but it was still a good life.

In case you're wondering, all of my children were born healthy and their mothers ended up fine, although, there was a scare when it came to Sarah giving birth. She lost too much blood but luckily, she ended up okay.

From oldest to youngest we named our children:

Alannah Julia Aspen (Ginger)

Matthew Jacob Aspen (Sarah)

Gabrielle Skylar Aspen (Toni)

Jacob Lamar Aspen II (Rachel)

Now this house, that seemed so big was bursting at the seams with so much energy and love. The girls found a way to get along and the kids just went with the flow because come on, their kids. I can't say that we were always happy, but at least we were always together. We were a work in progress and we got better every day.

***

"This is a one-time deal. You got that?"

I nodded as an overly sensual woman in her late 40's pinned me to the bed one late night in her cottage in the back of my yard. The girls were all exhausted and so were the kids. Everyone was asleep, so Julia and I got to drinking and one thing lead to another and well...here we are.

I had been attracted to her since that night she first tried to sell herself to me. I never did anything about it though because it would be too weird.

So why now?

I don't know. Blame it on the alcohol. Blame it on the atmosphere. Blame it on the fact that I haven't had sex for several months. I don't know. I stopped caring. I just wanted to see how far I could take her before she broke.

She looked down at me and smiled, "I'm going to fucking wreck you tonight, little boy. Get ready." It was nice to see that we were on the same page.

Julia had been living with us for over a year. She hardly ever went home. I think the last time she saw Darwin was around Christmas when he came out with her sons and their girlfriends.

This was something I didn't know until she started opening up after we knocked back a few, but apparently Darwin was a bit of a philanderer himself. She knew that he had been with a few women but that didn't matter to her because she had always focused on work.

I guess she was using me to get back at him. That was okay. I could live with that.

I nodded, "Okay. One-time only. Deal."

She smiled, "Deal." She was just as awkward with her emotions as her daughter was but she was definitely not awkward when it came to this.

Let's just say that she taught me a few tricks, but by the end, I had her calling me Daddy. One-time? Yeah, I don't think so.

I smiled at the sleeping beauty next to me who had a permanent smile etched across her face and thought, "Tainted or being the one to taint—it doesn't matter. In the end, we all end up changed by this life. It's best to do your best with the time that you have and sometimes just say damn to the consequences."

Fin.

My sincerest thank you to all of you that have read this story. This is the final story in the Gentleman's branch of the Tainted Series.

These characters have meant a lot to me. Creating and developing them has been a blast. I hope that you will pick up the rest of my stories and enjoy them as much if not more than you did this book.

Again—Thank you!

T.L. Tate

Other Works by T.L. Tate

A Gentleman's Curse

A Gentleman's Folly

A Gentleman's Pride

A Gentleman's Code

A Gentleman's Indiscretion

A Gentleman's Bet

Siren's: A Gentleman's Story

The Reluctant Scoundrel

The Reluctant Fool

The Reluctant Hero

Dance with the Devil (Volumes 1-7)

Inseparable Family

Workplace Tryst

You Belong to Me

Hearts that Bleed

Lustful Encounters: The Starlet and the Commoner

Visit www.TLTate.net!

Some Things About Me!

First, thank you for picking up this book. I hope you enjoyed it and that it moved something inside of you. A few interesting details about me is that I live in the Midwest United States, I am also married with three children, and I still have a baby tooth (no...seriously, I do). In my free time between work, family and graduate school I write.

I love writing stories that take my imagination on interesting and unexpected twists and turns. When it comes to romance and erotica, I find that the best stories are ones wherein you are engaged and causes a passionate fire to build within. I write what I enjoy and hope there are others out there that enjoy the same scenarios.

I am a bit of a whimsical creature so I tend to work on multiple stories at one time. I enjoy writing stories from a more personal prospective. What I mean is that I like to focus on how the characters are influenced by their circumstances but who knows, I might switch all that up tomorrow and want to write about goats. See? Whimsical.

Thanks a million for your support. I love you all! Please continue to support me!

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