Total pages in book: 101
Estimated words: 97284 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 486(@200wpm)___ 389(@250wpm)___ 324(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 97284 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 486(@200wpm)___ 389(@250wpm)___ 324(@300wpm)
“I think, my beautiful Gracie, I need to return the favor. Except you need to come twice.”
“Twice?” I asked breathlessly.
He slid his hand between us, his voice low and raspy. “Already so wet. Sucking my cock turns you on, doesn’t it?”
“Yes,” I admitted. Anything to do with this man turned me on.
“You need this. You need me.”
I whimpered as he slipped his fingers inside. “Yes.”
Chapter 14
Grace
The day that started so well seemed to unravel as the hours went by. We had breakfast in the hotel room, then Jaxson told me he wanted to go shopping. “I hear there’s a great spot about an hour from here. A bunch of little shops that just opened up—like a Christmas village. I know it’s early, but this is the first weekend.”
“That sounds like fun.” I shook my head. “And it’s never too early to shop for Christmas. I pick up things all year.”
A strange look crossed his face. “I have never bought a Christmas gift.”
“Ever?”
“Well, I give Michael a gift card every year. So, I suppose that counts.”
I didn’t know how to reply. A gift card wasn’t the same as shopping for gifts. I waited, hoping he would elaborate. Tell me something of his past. But he remained silent.
“I guess this will be a new experience for you, then,” I prodded gently.
“I guess so.” He stood and headed to the bedroom. “We should get ready and go.”
I followed him, wondering if he would ever open up.
I was tense waiting for the elevator, but with Jaxson’s arm firmly around my waist, I stepped in. There were other people in the small space, and he drew me as close as possible, letting me rest my head against his shoulder as he murmured soothing noises in my ear. I remained calm, but I was grateful when we could step out and into the underground parking garage. The drive took longer than an hour, but the scenery was nice, although Jaxson was quiet for the most part. The festive area was easy to find. The stores were all small, home-based businesses selling their wares, and I enjoyed walking around and looking. I purchased a few items, including a lovely set of handblown glasses for my dad for Christmas. He and Maddox would make use of them with their shared love of a good whiskey or scotch. My dad would love them.
I noticed that although we were far from Toronto, Jaxson seemed apprehensive. His gaze swept the crowd often, and his posture was stiff. He wasn’t as affectionate as usual. His hand would graze mine but not hold it. He walked a couple of steps in front of me or behind me. He kept his sunglasses on all the time. I suggested coffee at the little outdoor café, and I had no doubt he hesitated before agreeing. I went inside and got the hot beverages, inhaling deeply at the rich aroma. I was sure Jaxson would approve of the brew. I added a couple of their homemade pastries and carried them outside. Jaxson was at a small table in the corner of the fenced-off area, facing the crowd. I stifled a sigh, knowing he was watching in case anyone recognized him. It occurred to me we should have remained in the hotel. He would have been more relaxed, and I wouldn’t feel so worried. Guilty that I was causing him more stress. Why he had suggested this outing when it caused him so much anxiety, I had no idea. I sat down, sliding the coffee and pastry his way.
He took a sip, then another. “This is good.”
“The owner told me she grinds the beans herself. I thought you would approve. Coffee snob.”
A ghost of a smile tugged on his lips. “I simply know what I like.” He picked up the pastry and bit down. “Delicious.”
I nodded around my mouthful of the buttery treat. The lemon and pastry were perfectly cooked and balanced.
We were quiet as we sipped and munched.
“We should head back,” I murmured.
“You can’t be finished yet. There are stalls you haven’t seen.”
“I would rather be in the hotel with a relaxed Jaxson than be here with you so nervous and worried we might be seen together.”
He set down his cup. “I’m that obvious?”
“Yes.”
“I wanted to give you a nice day. I thought you’d enjoy this place. I heard you telling Michael how much you love the holidays and finding unique gifts.” He paused, his voice frustrated. “I guess last night spooked me more than I thought.” He reached under the table, finding my hand. “I’m sorry, Gracie. I’m not good company today, am I?”
“No.” I squeezed his fingers. “But I understand. I doubt we’ll run into someone from the firm up here, though. At least not today. It’s just opened, and word isn’t out there yet.”
“Then we push on.”