Cake

  The only sticking point of our relation...uh, agreement, is me not wanting Mads to find out. She wouldn’t understand and already has issues when I try and tell her that Dray has changed towards me. It’s hard when he’s still an ass to her, but as long as he doesn’t change back on me, we are good. It’s hard to hide the fact that I’m getting some, so she thinks I met this guy and we are having a strictly booty call situation. For the most part, that’s true, except my mystery man is not quite a mystery. I hate lying, but I remind myself I need to keep the peace.

  Aunt Leigh’s health is still the same. I’ve told her that Dray and I have an understanding. She winked and told me to just be careful. She wouldn’t mind having to buy me a baby gift, but she is pretty sure that I’m not ready for that, especially with whom. I’ve been able to spend a lot more time with her along with my parents. Decadent Darling keeps me busy, but in all honestly, I can take time for me now and feel confident in the people that I leave it with.

  I’ve had several texts from Nick Andrews, mostly wanting updates on Mads. With my life being so crazy, I pick up my cellphone to call and apologize to him.

  “Please tell me that she resents brushing me off, and I’ll literally fly my personal jet there this instant.” His voice greets me.

  “Not at all,” I answer honestly.

  A huge sigh sounds on the other end along with a mumbling of “Mother-fucker.” He clears his throat then continues, “I’m going crazy here, Kylie. I was finally able to get her cellphone number, and do you want to know what she told me?”

  “There is no telling.”

  “She told me that if I call her again her boyfriend will bust a cap in my ass.”

  “I’m pretty sure he’s just a wannabe gangster rapper,” I assure him.

  “Kylie, I’m not scared of some rapper. It’s that she referred to him as ‘her boyfriend’. I’m going crazy here. Some days I tell myself to give it up, but on others, I’m close to kidnapping her to some tropical island and strapping her to a coconut tree.”

  “Whoa boy, let’s keep your warped fantasies to yourself.” I can’t help but laugh at him.

  “God, what am I doing?” His voice sounds full of frustration.

  Propping my arm with the phone in it on my desk, I use the other to soothe my throbbing head. “Okay, as long as you can keep your abducting and bondage tendencies to a minimum, I may have a plan. Let me gather a little information.” Grabbing my iPad, I find my calendar and ask, “When can you be in town?”

  “Tomorrow,” he answers without pause.

  “Let’s try this again. Today is Tuesday. Can you be in town this Friday?”

  “Done. I’m serious about her, Kylie. I want you to know that.”

  “Good because if this is some head-thing where you covet her only because she is unattainable, I’ll rip your nuts off.”

  “No, it’s real.”

  For some reason, I believe him. “Okay, bring your tux. Come by my shop around noon, and I’ll give you all the information.” Pausing for a second, I finish saying, “Nick, I can get you only about five minutes alone with her. No promises. No guarantees. And if I think, for one instant, that your emotions are not sincere, I’ll warn her. Please remember that I’m not doing this for you. I’m doing this for her.”

  “Thank you.”

  Not having anything else to say, I disconnect our call. He’s desperate for her, and I can’t decide if it’s super sweet or super crazy, but I find it very romantic and exactly what Mads needs.

  Sitting at my desk, the ringing of my office phone breaks my thoughts.

  “Kylie Lord,” I answer.

  “My teammates want to know when you are going to start showing. They believe you should be at least three months, so everyone is betting anytime now. I did tell them you are getting a little potbelly,” Dray says, trying to stifle his laughter.

  The rumors have mainly died down, but the speculation of mine and Dray’s true relationship is at a fever high. I know he told his teammates and coach that I was an old friend, hence the hospital incident, and that I panicked when I thought they wouldn’t let me see him. I know because, the day that Dray tried to clear the misunderstanding up, Jason Silas texted me that he was sorry for coming to any conclusions, but in all fairness, I came to my grand idea after his speculation at the hospital. I did text him back that it was okay and understandable; however, I’m not answering his weekly phone calls.

  “If I’m getting a Buddha belly, I suggest you quit sending me gourmet chocolates.” I look to the corner of my desk where the almost empty chocolate trifle box lies open. “You are one evil man.”

  “Babe, I so know your weakness.” His voice deepens when he’s horny, like right now.

  “Yeah, I think I know yours also. Of course, it involves my mouth and your big...,” before I can finish, he cuts me off.

  “Tonight.”

  Laughing, I start to tell him that I have plans, but I soon realize that he’s already gone. Lil Rip has a local gig tonight, and I already promised Mads that I would go with her. He’s lasted longer than the rest, but part of me feels it has more to do with a certain singer than love. She refuses to even mention Nick’s name and becomes extremely upset when I do.

  “Hey, Kylie.” Looking up, I see Leo standing in my doorway.

  “Hi. How is everything going?” I start to clear some of the paperwork on my desk.

  Walking in with his hands placed casually in his pant pockets, he stops short of my desk. “Great. Sales are unbelievable, and I’ve got my first closet preview set up for next week in Toronto.”

  Sitting back in my chair, I smile up at him. “I’m excited for you. Are you sure you don’t want me to come along.”

  “I think I’ve got it, but thanks. I really appreciate the opportunity, Kylie. Oh, and the pay raise is pretty great too.” He grins back at me.

  “You deserve it, Leo. I appreciate how much you are doing for the boutique.”

  Nodding his head, he glances towards the box of open chocolates on my desk. “Seems someone has an admirer with great taste. Anyone I know?”

  Clearing my throat, I answer, “No.” I see the pained look on Leo’s face and know that he thinks I’m not sharing because of before. “Really, Leo. It’s nothing serious. Just someone to pass the time with.”

  “Okay.” He smiles, looking at me.

  “Listen, I’m off to have lunch with my aunt and mother. Call me if you need anything.”

  “Will do. Give Aunt Leigh kisses for me.”

  After he walks out, I gather everything in my bag and head upstairs to let Jonsie out before I leave.

  I arrive late for lunch at one of my aunt’s favorite bistros. Kissing my mother on the cheek, I lean over to kiss Aunt Leigh and note that they both have started happy hour early by ordering Mint Juleps. “Tsk,” I playfully comment to my aunt.

  “Leave an old lady alone. I take my kicks where I can get them,” she replies back.

  We all catch up on the latest gossip that doesn’t involve me, thank God! The owner comes over halfway through lunch, monopolizing most of the conversation, which I secretly hate. My time with my aunt and mother is very valuable, and every second taken from me breaks my heart. When he finally leaves, my mother turns to me.

  “So, are you going to tell me about this mystery man that has Madison in an uproar?”

  Mads talks to my mother weekly. I love that they are so close, but sometimes, it can be a pain. Like now. Aunt Leigh looks at me and away. As long as my secrets do no harm to me or others, she keeps them. It’s always been our secret pact from my parents. I know everything I tell her is taken into true confidence. Tears swim in my eyes when I think about the day that I will not have that anymore. Looking away, I bring my emotions under control and look back at my mother.

  “Mom, he’s just a guy. No one that is going to be long-term at this point.”

  “And Trent? Have you heard from him?”

  Of course. Everyone knows how I feel about
Trent, except him. Shaking my head, I search for an answer that will placate her.

  “Oh, leave the girl alone, Sue,” my aunt says to my mom. “She’s young and unmarried. Ah, to be a spring chicken again.”

  “Leigh, her own reputation also affects the shop’s,” my mother exclaims.

  “If I thought, for one second, that that is the truth, I would make her sell the damn thing in a heartbeat.” Reaching for my hand, she gently pats it saying, “You do what makes you happy. Everything else will fall into place.” Smiling at me, she turns to wave down a waiter. “More happy drinks, My Fine Fellow.”

  My mother looks at my aunt and, with a soft smile, nods. Turning towards me, she mouths that she is sorry. We both do not want to say or do anything to upset my aunt. I lean forward and grasp both their hands, raise them to my mouth, and softly kiss each. These two strong Southern women have taught me my morals, my values, and how to kickass when I need to. Everything strong and good in me, I owe to them.

  When the waiter arrives, I let go of their hands, reach for my drink, and listen to my aunt tell stories of her and my father when they were younger. I’ve heard them millions of times, but they never get old, and I can’t think of spending my time in a better way.

  The bass reverberates through the club while hundreds of bodies bump to the beats laid down by the DJ. Club Vision is at definite full-capacity since Lil Rip is performing tonight. It’s almost midnight, and he should go on at any time. Madison and I are treated to the VIP lounge upstairs overlooking the club’s stage. At our table sits Lil Rip’s agent and some mutual friends of his and Mads. This time, she came over to dress me before going out. Normally, I wouldn’t be caught dead in this tiny black “dress” she poured me into. I almost cringe to call it a tube dress, but that is exactly what it is. My boobs barely stay in at the top, and my ass is close to hanging out at the bottom. Paired with fuck-me-red-high-heels, and there you have it. Hooker Kylie.

  Pulling at the hem of my dress, I risk maximum exposure at the top, but I like to live on the edge. Grimacing, I think to myself that I could be having wild monkey sex with Dray right now...oops. Dray! Damn, I forgot to send him a text to let him know where I’m at. Actually, that is what is so great about our arrangement. It doesn’t matter. He’s not my boyfriend, so who cares if he shows up and I’m not there? Taking a deep breath, I smile inside. It’s almost a freeing sensation. Getting sex, but not having to deal with the emotional aspect of catering to someone because you are in a relationship is great.

  “Why are you grinning like a jackass eating briars?”

  Laughing at Mads’s little saying, I reply, “Nothing. Not a thing. I just ordered another Georgia Peach to drink, and life is great.” I shake my hips showing her I’m ready to have a good time tonight.

  “Regular sex does a body good, right?” she replies back, holding her hand up for a high-five which I reciprocate.

  “Yes, it does.” We both giggle and stand up to dance with the group we are with. The waitress hands us our drinks, and I take a sip of the sweet and cold cocktail. Lil Rip comes out, and the crowd goes wild. He’s developing a huge following, and I have to admit, he’s not half bad. Holding my drink up and out, the music pulsates through me, and shaking my hips, I let the beat take over. Mads smiles at me and sings every rhyme that he does.

  The club is loud and popping. Even an hour later, I’m still having a great time, not to mention I’m a little tipsy. Glad I took a cab here. I’ve been approached by several men this evening, but none that I’ve wanted to share my number with. One is even Dray’s teammate, but I think he is only messing with me. Madison and I dance with each other, listening to the men around us whistle. They wish.

  Stopping to order another drink, I look over to see Jason Silas standing at the railing, staring at me. He holds his drink up as if to say hello. I nod my head letting him know that I see him and turn to Madison who is watching Lil Rip’s show. Elbowing her to get her attention, I nod towards Jason. She turns back to me. Her eyes question, and I just shrug.

  Leaning in, she asks, “I didn’t think this is his kind of music scene?”

  “Me either.” Not really caring why he’s here, I go back to enjoying this slow song that Lil Rap rhymes with some chick.

  Once the waitress returns, I reach to take my drink when I see who is entering the V.I.P. lounge. Dray. Dear Lord, my mouth waters. He’s dressed in jeans and a black button-up shirt with the sleeves rolled up. Clothes can’t hide that body that God blessed him with. I can’t decide if I like him better clothed or naked. How about with clothes so that I can get him naked? That works for me. Just the sight of him excites me. Every single nerve in my body feels exposed. Why didn’t I stay home tonight? Actually, I wonder if my night is just getting started? Wait! Damn! Madison. She doesn’t know.

  Dray surveys the entire crowd, looking for something or someone. It can’t be me. How would he even know I’m here? Finally turning my way, his dark eyes narrow in on me, regarding me from heel to hair and back again. Even across the room, I can feel his charm emanating from him. Licking his lips, he smiles, nodding his head towards me. My gaze goes to Madison who’s oblivious to what is going on.

  Returning my attention back to him, I see several of his teammates call him over to their group. He doesn’t hesitate and greets them with back slaps. So, he’s not here for me. Damn! I’m disappointed. Somebody needs to tell my body to shut it down. Not wanting to be a stalker, I turn back to the stage, restraining myself from turning around to check his progress.

  The whole concept about our...pact...is no strings. If he finds some “ho” that he wants to take home, more power to him. Who’s to say he already hasn’t? And why the hell is my heart hurting at the prospect? I would think between the football season being in full swing and the time he spends with me, he would be too worn out to be with anyone else, but Dray’s pretty viral. Peeking over my shoulder, I try to inspect who is hanging around them.

  “Who are you chicken-necking over?” Madison almost shouts over the music.

  “What?” I shout back. Grabbing my ear, she pulls me down, “OW!” I yelp.

  “Who are you looking at? Is your mystery man here?” she hollers directly into my ear.

  I may be deaf after this conversation as my ears ring with the sound of her voice. Pulling away, I shake my head and reply, “No.”

  I see her glance around, zeroing in on Dray and the group of guys he is with. At the same time, Dray looks over at us and smiles at Mads. Her response it to flip him off. Great.

  “When did that pecker-head get here?” She looks questioningly at me.

  Feeling guiltier than a sinner in church, I get defensive. “I don’t know. Why would I know or care when he arrived? Why are you even asking me? I don’t know anything. Maybe you know when he arrived?” Sneaking another look, I see that several hoochy women are hanging all over them, including Dray. What the hell? Gritting my teeth, I turn back to see that Mads is staring at me. She looks at me like I’ve lost my mind.

  “Never-mind,” she says while shaking her head as she turns back to listen to Lil Rip as one of his more popular party songs begins.

  I’ve heard this one on the local radio, and it’s actually a decent song. Forgetting about the scene with Dray, Madison grabs my hand that doesn’t have a drink in it, wanting me to dance with her. Ooh, men like it when two chicks hump on each other. Alright Dray, get your eyes ready for this.

  Stepping up on the couch, I pull Mads up with me and start dancing with my front pressing against hers. Because I’m much taller, I bend my knees and stick my ass out, shaking it all around. Everyone around us must like it because they clap and cheer. Madison dies laughing but gets into it, turning around and grinding her bony butt against me. Over her shoulder, I look to see him staring at me. The weight of his eyes is like kisses against my skin, circling my nipples and moving lower. I move in sync with Mads, our bodies weaving back and forth together, and the longer we dance, the bigger the crowd around u
s becomes.

  While mine and Dray’s eyes stay locked together, some whore moves in front of him and begins giving him a lap dance. He doesn’t stop watching me, but neither does he cease her movements. The sexier she dances on him, the harder I try. Before long, Madison has stilled to watch Lil Rip on stage, but I continue moving for him. Trying to pop my ass out and, at the same time, keep my balance, I must look ridiculous dancing. Unfortunately, Madison jerks her hand back to salute Lil Rip and knocks me backwards to the floor. Flat. On. My. Ass.

  The pain radiates up my back, stunning me for a second. Strong hands reach down to pull me up as I look into Jason Silas’s smiling eyes.

  Leaning to whisper in my ear, he says, “You’ve got one mean-ass, Kylie Lord.”

  Did he just insult me? Rubbing my stinging behind, I roll my eyes at him.

  Laughing, he explains, “I’m told it’s a compliment. You know like a fine ass.”