All Chapters of Surrendering to my Best Friend's Dad: Chapter 11 - Chapter 20

*Noland’s POV*The sun pours through the floor-to-ceiling windows of my office, casting a golden glow on the polished mahogany desk. I take a sip of my steaming espresso and let out a sigh, feeling the caffeine rush through my veins. Just as I'm about to get back to the paperwork in front of me, the door swings open, revealing Avery in her impeccably tailored suit that hugs her curves just right.We work at the same building, but we had agreed on a monthly meeting to update each other. Lately, she has been strolling into my office once or twice a week. The first couple of times were understandable, she asked about some new properties in the business district, and we both wanted to make sure we got them before anyone else; we had clients waiting to buy them.But as time went by, and so did the weeks, she started to come just to talk and check on me. The last time she came was only four days ago, and there was no need for another update when I still had to close purchases before we de

Without a doubt, this is one of my favorite things from Santa Barbara; the sun as it creeps through the curtains, casting a warm glow across my face when I stir awake.I blink groggily, trying to focus on the ornate ceiling above me. After a while, I finally get up and head to Natasha’s door, knocking gently on it. There is no answer, and I realize that she isn't in the room.There is so much silence, it makes me uneasy. I focus all my attention into every sound around me, but the more I listen, the more convinced I am that I am completely alone. There is no music, no voices, no whispers. I feel like I was left abandoned in a castle.My phone buzzes with a message from her, explaining that she has left early for her show and will pick me up after lunch. The emptiness of the house presses down on me, leaving an unsettling feeling in the pit of my stomach."Miss Montgomery, breakfast is ready," a voice calls softly from the door. I quickly go back to my room to get another outfit on

*Lexie’s POV*For the first time in weeks, my thoughts are untroubled by Noland's intense gaze, his brooding presence. He's away for some days, and though I'd never admit it aloud, I'm grateful for the reprieve. My heart has been a tempestuous storm ever since he entered my life, and I desperately need to find my way back to still waters."Lexie!" Natasha's voice, bright and full of energy, shatters the peace as she bursts into my room. "You won't believe who I invited over today!""Who?" I ask, pushing myself up on my elbows, my curiosity piqued."Tristan and Robert," she says, her eyes shining with excitement. "I've got a massive crush on Robert, and I need your help to make sure I don't mess this up."I already had an idea of this before, the way that Robert would whisper things in her ear, and how she would blush and giggle at his comments. I am happy, I like Robert, he seems to be a very good person for Natasha."Of course, Tasha," I reply, smiling at her enthusiasm. "I'll b

*Lexie’s POV*I wake up in Noland's arms, a strange mix of fear and comfort surging through me. His chest rises and falls gently, the rhythmic beating of his heart beneath my ear both soothing and unsettling. At this moment, he seems almost vulnerable, a stark contrast to the powerful, dominant man I've come to know.As I lay there, unable to tear my eyes away from his sleeping face, I can't shake the feeling that what we're doing is catastrophically wrong. Yet, I can't deny the magnetic pull I feel towards him – an attraction that goes beyond physical desire; I feel like he understands me, knows me, and cares for me more than I care for my own safety. And it terrifies me.Suddenly, the sound of shattering glass somewhere near us echoes, yanking me out of my thoughts. Noland's eyes flash open, a protective edge to them as they dart between me and the door. We both tense up, our hearts pounding in unison."Are you alright?" His voice is low and urgent, filled with genuine concern fo

Noland's POV:I stand in my office, meticulously arranging the papers on my desk for the upcoming meeting with a high-profile client. My fingers glide over the glossy property brochures, feeling the weight of each potential investment. I've spent countless hours analyzing market trends and identifying prime real estate opportunities for this particular client. As a seasoned developer, I know that my recommendations are solid, and I carry myself with the confidence befitting my expertise.The sunlight streams through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting an ethereal glow on the room. I take a deep breath, inhaling the rich scent of mahogany and leather. This is my sanctuary, a place where I can immerse myself in work and temporarily forget the turmoil brewing within me. It's been weeks since Lexie entered my life, and her presence lingers in my thoughts like an intoxicating perfume; forbidden, yet undeniably alluring."Mr. Reynolds?" My assistant's voice breaks through my reverie. "T