LillyThe girls chatted amongst each other, playing word games, rhyming words, while Sienna multi-tasked texting on her phone. This felt dangerously close to a family event.I didn’t like it.I freaking loved it. I shouldn’t. He was my boss, and yet, I pictured and imagined things I shouldn’t.“Is something wrong?” Chance’s voice startled me from my thoughts.“No, not really,” I muttered. It wasn’t like I could admit my thoughts to him.“If you say no one more time, I might actually believe you even less.” Chance had a point there.I smoothed my pants and placed my hands in my lap.“Just kind of weird,” I stated, glancing back to ensure my kids were not listening. “Going to my boss’ mother’s birthday party.”“Don’t think of me as your boss this weekend,” he retorted, his voice deep and his eyes never wavering from the road. He behaved as if we’d done this before and it was just another event. “She liked you and your girls. A lot. Regularly, she doesn’t take to people as fast as she d
LillyA few hours later, Chance was driving us all home. It was a late night for all of us. The girls were worn out and fell asleep before we even left Lena’s neighborhood.“Thank you for coming,” Chance echoed his mother’s parting words.“We had a really good time,” I admitted softly. “Thanks for having us. Although, I still think it is weird to go to my boss’ mother’s birthday party.”“Well, you could always go as my girlfriend next time,” he commented back. “The job’s still open.”I snorted. Yeah, like that was ever going to happen. His first mistake was thinking a girlfriend was a job position. That alone was evidence to me that he wanted someone he could boss around and control. Though sex would be-I had to stop myself going down that road.“I don’t want to bring up business,” he started, breaking up the silence.“Please do,” I answered, grateful for the neutral topic.“Next Wednesday, there is a fundraiser ball in New York that I need you to accompany me to.”“Ah,” I answered.
ChanceI pressed the button of the intercom on my desk, ending the call with my Australian office. They were a day ahead, and their Monday, my Sunday, was always the best day for conducting business meetings.Leaning back in my chair, I rubbed a hand over the back of my neck, then loosened my tie. This house felt empty. Even when staff buzzed with their chores outside and inside, this home was hollow. It had never felt like that until very recently. And a certain woman with dark brown eyes was to blame.I had long given up on the notion of a family and love. In my experience, women weren’t dependable. Throw money and social status at them, they’d do anything. Yet, Lilly didn’t seem to operate that way and it intrigued me.I can’t do emotional detachment. Her words replayed on repeat in my mind.Until her, emotional detachment was my firm clause; it was never an option to bend that self-imposed rule. Yet, when Lilly’s whispered words penetrated my brain, I knew she’d walk. Unless I ga
LillyMonday morning rolled around and I walked into the office with a mixture of excitement and trepidation at seeing my boss. Flicking a gaze at his closed door, his voice already booming through it, I sat my bag down on my desk and went into the kitchen to grab Chance his coffee.Once back, I glanced at Kimberly. “He’s still in there, right?”“I think so,” she responded, all her attention on her computer screen. “I think he’s done with his call. I heard him say a few creative words when he hung up.”My lips tugged up. Chance seemed too controlled of a man to curse. Except when he fucked you. Then all the filth came out and I loved it. The memory of it sent a heavy weight between my legs.Jesus, don’t think about that.I looked down at myself one last time. My black pencil skirt was wrinkle free, my light green blouse didn’t reveal anything it shouldn’t. The color reminded me of Chance’s eyes. I’d never admit to anyone that it was precisely the reason I chose it this morning.I rais
ChanceI must have lost my mind to have eaten Lilly’s pussy in the dressing room of Couture’s. Did I regret it? Fuck no. Something in my chest roared at seeing her flushed from the orgasm and her lust-hazed eyes on me.She was magnificent and all mine. Mine to fuck. Mine to protect.The event this Wednesday was a black tie affair and I knew, without a doubt, that whatever Lilly wore, she’d be the most stunning woman there. I also knew there was a possibility that my ex would be there and knowing the bitch she was, she’d take Lilly’s simple dress and turn it into Cinderella rags. Hence ensuring Lilly had the best the fashion world had to offer. Did I care whether Lilly wore the most expensive dress or not? Fuck no. She had the natural kind of beauty that captured attention. But knowing Jacqueline, she’d try to ridicule her, then I’d have to kill my fucking ex because I’d hate seeing Lilly upset.Dangerous notion, for sure.Hence taking Lilly shopping. That and the fact that I wanted to
LillyWednesday came around too quickly. Noona and her boys would sleep over at our place to watch the girls while I went to the event with Chance.It was two in the afternoon by the time I showered and dried off and right on time, my doorbell rang. I quickly pulled on a robe and hurried to the front door to find a team of three ladies standing there, expectantly, with wide smiles on their faces.“Hello, I’m Diane.” I blinked. The woman was stunning and I couldn’t stop staring, her ebony black hair and fair skin making a striking contrast. Her full lips were too big for her face, but oddly, it made her look even more exotic. “We’re here to get you ready for the event tonight,” she clarified, offering a big, warm smile.“Chance never mentioned you coming,” I commented stupidly.“He booked me a week ago. Maybe he forgot?” she remarked with a smile. “Either way, we are here to do your hair, makeup, and nails.”I frowned, not really buying the excuse that Chance forgot. The man was a mach
LillyBy the time we arrived, the fundraiser was in full swing. The beautiful estate stretched over roughly five waterfront acres with a large mansion in the center of it.A large tent stood in the middle of the property, overlooking New York Bay and the city lights on the other side, visible from any location in the tent. Soft classical tunes drifted through the early summer breeze creating a relaxing atmosphere.Tall cocktail tables scattered to the right of the tent with a large bar set up staffed by four bartenders. Waitresses discreetly conversed, offering drinks to attendees who barely spared them a glance. On the left side of the tent was formal seating, leaving the center of the tent open for mingling, and a few groups already formed into their circles.And dancing.Women literally glittered with diamonds and elaborate gowns. Thank God Chance ensured my beautiful dress and jewelry because I would have stood out in a bad way if I opted for my simple cocktail dress.Instead, I f
ChanceLilly smiled at Byron, miming vividly with her hands and whatever she was explaining had my friend throwing his head back and laughing out loud.I didn’t exaggerate when I told her every man watched her. Hungry, curious glances. I watched the entire evening. She didn’t attempt to flirt with anyone. Her smiles were reserved and her posture cautious. Though with Byron she was a bit more relaxed.Yes, I was fucking jealous.Considering my past, I was probably way beyond jealous. Obsessively so. I wanted to go to Byron and punch him in the face so his face wouldn’t be so fucking pretty. The only thing stopping me was that Lilly kept glancing my way.She was seated opposite of me and it pissed me off that she wasn’t seated next to me. She was too far away from me. I wanted her leg pressed against mine.“You look like you’re ready to murder Byron for making your girl smile.” My jaw tightened at the familiar voice behind me. I barely spared Jonathan, my old friend, a glance.“I’m goin
CHANCE - THREE YEARS LATERThe moment my driver passed through the gate, I couldn’t help the smile curving my lips. The immaculate lawn wasn’t so immaculate anymore. The quiet estate wasn’t so quiet anymore. The home wasn’t a lonely place to lay my head.Lilly and my home boomed with laughter, loud voices, occasional tears and arguments, but it was all worth it. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.“Seems the kids had a good day, sir,” my driver remarked.He was right. If the driveway marked with chalk full of colors, bikes, and a kiddie pool were anything to go by. I still didn’t understand the need for a kiddie pool when we had a perfectly functioning real pool, but Lilly insisted it was better.So we went with it. She dragged me to Target and picked out the cheapest pool she could find. I’d do anything to keep her happy. If she wanted me to drain the Olympic size pool, so be it. As long as she continued smiling.The car came to a stop, and I grinned. Lilly sat at the doorstep of our m
SIX WEEKS LATER“Stop fidgeting,” Noona complained. “You are messing up your hair.”“Forget my hair,” I retorted with a wide smile. God, I was so happy I could burst. “It’ll get messed up anyway. Chance gets a bit rough in the bedroom. We’re trying out some kinky stuff after the ceremony.”I winked, a playful smile on my lips.“Jesus, why would you tell me that?” Noona giggled. “What happened to my reserved best friend?”I shrugged my shoulders, glancing at the woman staring back at me in the mirror. My brown hair fell in thick waves down my back, sunlight coming through the yacht window highlighting the warm tones in it. My whiskey brown eyes sparkled and reflected back at me with a happy gleam. Slight makeup accented my eyes, lips, and cheekbones. My beach tan was enough. It contrasted against my simple, white, strapless baby doll wedding dress that came to my knees and matching two inch heels. My baby bump was getting bigger by the day.I couldn’t believe I was getting married. To
LillyBright light streaming through the window woke me, and I slowly opened my eyes, blinded by it. I hadn’t felt this relaxed in weeks, and I smiled to myself. I went to move and felt strong arms wrapped around me. I remembered last night.Too much emotion burned.I swallowed and turned to see Chance’s handsome face. My heart swelled at the sight. I brushed my fingers over his dark hair, the words from last night dancing through the air. I loved him. My body nor my mind would ever want anyone else. He was it for me.My eyes roamed the space. We ended up in my bedroom last night.He said he loves me. My pulse fluttered remembering his words.I slowly shifted out of his arms, ensuring I didn't wake him. I got up and tiptoed around the room grabbing my clothes out of the closet, as quietly as I could, and went into the bathroom to pee. As I shut the bathroom door behind me, I exhaled and leaned against it. My reflection stared back at me, the mirror reflecting a dreamy smile and thorou
ChanceMy woman.Fucking mine.I watched her sleep, her naked body a sight to behold. I’d never tire of watching her. Not in five years. Not in twenty. I’d grow old with her. Love her. Worship her.I fucking loved her so goddamn much that just the thought of losing her brought me to my knees.Tucking her body into me, I skimmed my lips against her temple. A small sigh left her lips but she didn’t stir. Jonathan said she tired easier.It turned out my best friend sleeping with my ex-wife was the best goddamn thing that could have happened to me. Our differences were settled, although I still refused to trust him.But I trusted Lilly.“You’re in my blood, beating in my heart. You’re my life,” I whispered against her temple. “My everything. Life without you would just be existing. I love you. In this life and the next.”Her dark eyes fluttered open and our gazes connected. Confusion and exhaustion lingered in hers.“Did I wake you?” I asked.A breath of silence.“I wanted to make sure yo
LillyTonight’s dinner. At my favorite restaurant. With people I loved.I loved him. He was part of me, just as my girls were.Chance’s words playing in my mind. Over and over and over again. Marry me. Just like that? God help me, I wanted to, but I wanted his love even more.“Look, Mommy... we are beautiful!” Saoirse exclaimed, pulling me away from my thoughts. I caught her watching herself in the mirror, not an ounce of modesty on her face.“Girls, you’re going to turn vain if you continue looking at yourself in the mirror.” Then because I couldn’t resist, I smiled. “And yes, you look beautiful.”My little ones whirled around one more time.“Ok, lovebugs,” I murmured while hugging them. “Go play.”I smiled as they disappeared and I went to get myself ready. A quick shower, even quicker blow-dry, some mascara, and I was ready. My hair had gotten longer and even thicker with my prenatal vitamins. I couldn’t help but smile as I looked at my image in the mirror, the move reminding me of
LillyThe next morning, we found ourselves on the beach early.Chance and Sophie eventually joined too. It was the downfall of a small village. It took all of ten minutes to reach all four corners of the entire village.“Hi, Mommy.” Sierra ran towards me with her chubby hands outstretched. “Mr. Paolo gave me an extra scoop.”I missed the days when the world revolved around ice cream.“Me too,” Saoirse exclaimed.“Free scoops are always the best.”“So this is where you’ve been hiding?” Chance sat next to me. Saoirse and Sierra left to play with their cousins to build yet another stone castle in the water.I glanced down to my bathing suit and regretted not wearing a one piece. The two piece white bathing suit revealed my little bump and next to Sophie’s knockout body, I felt a bit self-conscious. Although I had the best reason for it.“Hi there,” she greeted me. “I hope you don’t mind that we joined in.”“Of course not,” Jonathan replied before I could. He had eyes only for Sophie.Int
LillyI rushed out of there like the devil was at my heel.Rick trailed behind me. “I don’t know how I’ll survive seeing him every day,” I whispered as I glanced over my shoulder.Chance’s intense gaze remained on me, the heat of it burning through me with promises of passionate nights, rustle of the sheets and filthy words against my skin.I shook my head, hoping to clear the images creeping up my mind. “I should have said a million per night, per room.”“He would have paid it,” Rick declared confidently. “Maybe it’s good that he is here. You can decide if you want to go after him.”I glared at him. “Did he look alone to you? Did you not notice that seriously gorgeous redhead next to him?”“I did.” He shrugged casually, tucking his hands into his pockets. “But I also noticed he wasn’t looking at her. His eyes were on you the entire time.”“That’s because he wants to talk about the pregnancy. When that man gets something in his head, he doesn’t let go. I’ve seen him in negotiations.”
Lilly“Kristoff,” I breathed. “What a surprise to see you here.” Lie.Ever since the gifts, I knew deep down he was coming. Nothing and nobody would keep that man away when he set his mind on something.“No matter where you go, I’ll find you.” The deep sound of his voice did things to me I had no business feeling. Then the words sunk in. Unhealthy, my reason whispered.A loud, delighted screech and the moment evaporated through the summer breeze. Saoirse ran through the terrace. Chance knelt down before she threw herself through the air into his arms. Sierra followed, her eyes shining like the sea under the bright sun and the biggest smile her little face could muster.My heart stilled, the image burning right into my soul.Family. God, this felt like family.Our eyes collided, my heart slowed and the world ceased to exist. Just Chance and our kids. No, no, no, my kids.It was only then I noticed the woman beside him. A gorgeous redhead, wearing a classy white Greek summer dress with
LillyWe danced in silence until the song ended when Rick stepped in.“Can I cut in?”“You already have,” Jonathan grumbled.I just chuckled and took Rick’s hand just as Daughtry’s song “September” came on. “Not exactly a dance song.”“That’s ok,” he told me, putting his arms around me. “We can just slow dance.”Our bodies in sync, we danced slowly, just as we did back in our college years. So much has changed. Almost two decades, time wasted on my late husband. Catch twenty-two though, because if I regretted those years, I wouldn’t have my daughters.Opting not to think about Jack, I focused on the words of the song. And damn if that wasn’t just as bad. The words tore at my chest and fragile heart. Since songs never made me tear up before, I mused. This self-revelation would be the death of me.An ache bloomed in my chest, remembering moments with Chance, like snapshots for perfect moments. Damn hormones. Tears burned the backs of my eyes, the ache traveling through my veins to my he