Dangerous Pursuit (The Pursuit #3)

12 Seduction

SEDUCTION

Mia

B efore I fully come to, I notice the heat from a body behind me and something hard pressing into my backside. As evidenced by his breathing, Jackson is still asleep, so I remain as motionless as possible. I’m afraid that any movement might wake him, and given our current position, I’m not sure I’m ready for that this morning.

I must have passed out immediately because I had zero time to process everything that happened yesterday. My mind is bombarded with thoughts as they rush into my brain all at once. Such as, what will Frank and Jay do when they catch wind of what happened last night? I don’t think it’ll matter that I was assaulted, and now I’m freaked out over what their supposed consequences will be. The fact of the matter is, I’m a sitting duck until they show up since I don’t want to bring any unnecessary attention by texting them first.

If only I could stay at Walker’s to hide out for a while, but then they’d end up going after my mom as threatened. I know Jackson wants to help, but no part of me would pass on my problems to someone else. He also has no idea what he’s asking for. It’s not like he can just hand over the remaining $180,000, and even if he could, these aren’t the kind of guys you want on your radar. I can’t let him get involved; he has too much to lose and nothing to gain.

Which brings me to my next concern—how do I come to terms with this new side of Jackson? Maybe he’s had these feelings for a while now, but I certainly haven’t. In my reality, he went from tolerating me to trying to date me in the span of one day and is more likely to bite my head off rather than kiss it. There’s no denying the physical attraction, but so far, that’s all it’s been. Had I spent time with last night’s version of Jackson over the last two months, hell, I’d probably be in love by now.

And even though Walker might be all for giving this a go, what will my mom think about the age difference? What do I think about it? Then there are his parents, who I doubt would be okay with their son dating the cleaner’s daughter, who also happens to be an employee.

I would say my lack of experience also makes the list of concerns, judging by his erection at full mast behind me. He’s made it clear where he wants this to go, and it’s apparent from certain comments that he assumes I’ve been with other guys. It doesn’t seem like something to randomly blurt out: “Oh hey, by the way, this sex thing, yeah, I’ve never done it.”

He’s the guy with a different girl every week, and booty calls to the office for crying out loud. I wonder if he’d change his mind about wanting me if he knew how inexperienced I am. A guy like Jackson doesn’t want to deal with some girl who has no idea what she’s doing. This could be over before it gets started with everything stacked against us, and likely won’t go anywhere. However, our current sleeping arrangement indicates otherwise.

“Good morning, gorgeous. What’s on your mind?” He must’ve been awake for a minute if he caught my huff of frustration.

He squeezes me and nuzzles the back of my neck, breathing me in. Whatever had me concerned flies out the window when I feel his lips on my skin, and his hips press forward. My body’s reaction is instantaneous, and I get that delicious sensation down there again. It’s crazy how easily he brings these feelings to the surface. Does he know what he’s doing to me? I’m so turned on right now, and I’m not sure how to handle it.

A second later, my body takes over by arching into him, and I find myself tilting my head for more. I’m overcome with lust, and he’s not even touching me—not with his hands, anyway. His lips are on my skin, and his dick is rubbing against me, but there are two layers of clothing between us. How in the world does this feel so good?

Oh shit, I think I just moaned.

“Fuck, Mia, you smell so good.” He nuzzles further into my neck and thrusts his groin, and oh… my… God… He’s killing me. Grabbing his hand on my hip, I try bringing it to where I’m aching, only for his muscles to bulge in resistance.

“Mia, I’d like nothing else than to feel your sweet pussy right now, but we’re not going there yet. You’re my little girl, remember? Or should I say… my dirty little girl.” His filthy words whisper against my ear while his lips graze my skin.

Oh shit. My walls clench even harder. I think I might climax from this alone.

“Mmm, Jackson, please.” It comes out unbidden, not sure what I’m asking for, but the pleas won’t stop while my body writhes in desire.

“Jesus, Mia, I’m sorry. I need to get up before I do something stupid.” He scrambles from the bed. “Fuck, I didn’t mean to get carried away.” He’s facing away from me, running his hand through his hair, panting.

“Uh, I’m pretty sure it wasn’t all your fault. I’m sorry. I don’t know what got into me.” I’m not exactly sure what I’m apologizing for, but I certainly didn’t help the situation.

He turns back toward me with a sly grin. “Well, thankfully, nothing got into you—no thanks to your begging. I get an A-plus in willpower.”

“You did not just say that.” I groan and sink back into the bed.

I’m toast.

Jackson

She turns beet red, and it’s fucking adorable. Does she have any idea of the effect she has on me? I was way too close to giving us what we both wanted. One more plea out of her mouth or push of her hand and I might have caved. Thankfully, I came to my senses before that happened.

“Seriously, though, I’ll behave. Are you okay if I get back in bed?” The urge to be close to her is overwhelming.

“You’re the one who got up. Why are you asking me?”

“I don’t know, maybe because I just about took advantage of you a minute ago?” Even though I have myself under control now, she doesn’t know that, and if the boner I’m sporting is any indication, she has no reason to. Unfortunately, it’s not going anywhere for a while after that nice wake-up.

“You were not taking advantage of me. Like you said, I was the one begging. I’m not a damsel in distress.”

“Actually, you are, remember? You’re here to be protected and feel safe, not to be mauled. I shouldn’t be trying to seduce you. You’re just too goddamn tempting.”

“There was no trying involved—I was thoroughly seduced. It looks like you get an A-plus in seduction, but I think you should retake the test to be sure.”

And that’s when I know I am well and truly fucked.

“You’re going to be the literal death of me.” I climb back in, propping myself on my elbow, and look her straight in the eyes. “When you’re not off-limits anymore, and you find yourself back in my bed, I can assure you—I won’t be stopping.”

“Okay…” Damn… That response alone… What I wouldn’t do to fast-forward time by a few days. This is ridiculous. Why am I waiting again?

I groan and fall back, staring up at the ceiling. “Fuck, Mia, if I’m going to do this, I’m going to do it right, and that means waiting not only for your birthday but making sure you know what you’re getting into and that you want to go down this road with me.” I put my arm up in an invitation for her to get closer.

“Come here, let’s start over.” She does, and I can’t help but notice how perfectly she fits against me. My arm drops down around her, and we both settle in, taking a deep breath of contentment. “How about you tell me what was on your mind this morning? I could tell it was going a million miles a minute.”

“Just… everything. The whole situation last night. You show up as my knight in shining armor, and instead of being angry, you throw me a curveball. One minute, I’m your nemesis, and the next, you’re trying to date me, I think. See, I don’t even know. Is that what you’re doing?” I love her frankness. I wish she could be this honest about everything.

“Yes, Mia, I’m trying to date you. Can you take my behavior over the last couple of months and wipe it from your memory? I’m not usually like that. Just give me a chance to win you over, and I’ll prove I’m the type of guy you deserve.” Her head rests on my chest while she casually grazes her hand over my abs. Thankfully, it’s through my shirt, or we might be right back where we were minutes ago.

“I’ll try. We’ll just have to take it one day at a time.”

“How about we start today, and I take you to breakfast?”

“Are you asking me on our first date?” She lifts her head and looks at me.

The fact that she used the words “first date” tells me she’s already invested in this more than she’ll admit—she knows we’re happening. And that knowledge is all I need for now.

I gently caress her cheek. “Yeah, I am. Mia, will you go out to breakfast with me this morning?”

“I would love to, Jackson,” she says, rewarding me with a massive smile.

My chest swells, and I feel something I’m not sure I’m prepared for.

Breakfast with Mia was more than I could’ve hoped for. She truly saw me from a new perspective, and it felt like we made a year’s worth of progress in two hours. She shared details about her life, allowing me to experience a more personal side of her, and with each new facet, I’m more and more enamored. In turn, I talked about my family, friends, and work, explaining the dynamics of my parents’ retirement and how it affected my role at the office, giving her an even better understanding of my previous behavior.

After bringing her home, I hit the gym for a couple of hours to release some of the built-up sexual tension. Unfortunately, I’ll be taking care of that myself for a while. There’s no doubt our time together has left me pent up. I’m glad I’m holding out to kiss her, though, because when it finally happens, it’ll be worth the wait—and impossible to stop there.

I need to make plans for another date before Wednesday so she has more time to experience the real Jackson. It might have to be tomorrow since I know she makes dinner for her mom throughout the week. I’ll surprise her with something. But before I do anything else, I need to call Cici to confirm our plans and make sure everything is set for the trip.

“Hey, Jackson. Are you getting excited for Friday?” Cici asks excitedly, making me chuckle.

“Yeah, how could I not be? You’ve been talking up the place forever. Is everything set for next weekend??”

“Yep, all the showings are scheduled for Friday. We’re getting an early start, so we have time for dinner. I made reservations already and assumed Mia would join?”

“She will. And I should probably give you a heads-up before we get there. I’m sort of… seeing her.”

“I knew it. I knew right when you said she was coming. Wait… I thought she was seventeen. What the hell are you thinking?”

“Cool your jets. I haven’t touched her. Well… I haven’t kissed her… anywhere other than her neck—barely. Anyway, that’s beside the point. She turns eighteen Wednesday, and until then, I’m keeping my hands off… for the most part.” She tries interrupting again, but I don’t let her. “Listen, I like her, okay? A lot. Just save your judgment until you meet her. She’s special. Fuck, I know she’s young, but at the same time she’s not. You’ll understand what I mean soon enough.”

“Jesus, Jackson, how did you go from hating the girl to being in love?”

What the fuck?

“I didn’t say anything about love. I’ve just managed to convince her to give me a chance for Christ’s sake. She still thinks of me as her asshole of a boss. It’s a new development for now. Maybe I’ll have made some headway by the time we get there. Can you just wait to give me shit until after our visit?” I ask in earnest.

“I can’t believe you’re bringing a girlfriend for me to meet the first time you visit. I feel so special. I bet Mom and Dad don’t know, do they?”

“Cici, no one does. This is brand-fucking-new. Hell, I don’t even know. I’m just seeing where it goes, and you’re the first one I’ve said anything to, so there’s nothing for Mom and Dad to know, and if there were, who cares? They’re responsible for this in the first place. Anyway, moving on, I just wanted to make sure everything’s set. Other than that, I’ll see you Friday morning. We get in late Thursday and can just Uber to the hotel. You have Uber there?” I need to get her off the Mia topic already.

“Yes, we have Uber, dumbass. I’ll pick you up at seven thirty Friday morning, then. Text me your room number because I’m at least coming to your door for a real greeting and a proper introduction to your future wife.” Damn her.

“Fuck, I knew telling you was a mistake. Please don’t make it awkward. Just act like she’s my assistant.”

“Wow, Jackson, I thought you were smarter than that. If you’re trying to win her over, I’m pretty sure playing the ‘only my assistant’ card when you introduce her to your sister won’t win any points, but if that’s what you want…”

“I’m seriously reconsidering this trip.” Not.

“Sure you are. I’d say this trip was your way to close the deal, and I’m not talking about one of the deals you’re coming to look at.”

“God, you drive me nuts. I’m hanging up now. I’ll see you Friday.” I end the call before she gets another word in. I can’t take any more of her insufferableness.

With that settled, it’s time to plan a date.

Mia

While getting ready for bed, I reflect on the day. Brunch with Jackson this morning was fun… and weird. It was surprisingly the best of all four dates I’ve been on over the last couple of weeks, which is good since the others all slighted me. I was starting to wonder if I just repelled men, but I hope that’s not the case because I really like Jackson. To put it simply, we click. The chemistry between us is undeniable, and the conversation flows seamlessly. We have a lot in common—we’re both overachievers, enjoy poker, and strive to please our parents, just to name a few.

It was nice to hear about his family, especially his little sister, Cici, who I’ll be meeting in a few days. She sounds great, and I can tell by how he speaks of her that they’re close. Jackson seems sure about this, but what if she doesn’t like me? It could be an easy way out of things becoming more serious… if that’s what I want, but I think a big part of me already knows it isn’t.

He’s sweet when he’s not intentionally trying to be an ass. I would even say he’s a catch. He’s stable, hot, knows how to treat a woman, and he makes me laugh. Honestly, I wish my birthday was tomorrow because I’m ready for that kiss—and, embarrassingly, way more than that. My body seems to light up from his touch. I can’t help but imagine what it will feel like when there are no clothes between us and his hands explore more… forbidden places.

I expected him to cave and kiss me when he brought me home after brunch, but he stayed true to his word with only a hug and kiss on my forehead. I even leaned in and licked my lips, but he ended up shaking his head, chuckling, telling me I was dangerous. Hopefully, I can get him to make a move during this trip to Montana, which, in hindsight, I’m now excited about.

What I’m not excited over is the text I got from Jay informing me that after some deliberation, the boss (whoever that is) decided to add fifteen grand to my debt for the complaints about my behavior and that I should be grateful that’s all I got. If this is how it continues to go, I’ll never pay them off. They’re fining me for being sexually assaulted. How that’s fair is beyond me, but apparently, this boss of theirs makes the rules.

They sent details for two online tournaments next week, and luckily, they’re not on my birthday or during the trip with Jackson. I decided not to tell them I’m leaving town, so they won’t know my mom is alone, but I’m screwed if they send me to a live game next weekend. The problem is, they never tell me in advance.

My phone lights up with Walker’s name. “Hey, Walker, what’s up?” I answer as I pull back the covers and crawl into bed, having just finished my nighttime routine.

“You tell me. The last text I got from you said you were staying at Jackson’s. You better tell me everything and start with why I had to call instead of hearing from you earlier.”

“Sorry. I know I should’ve at least told you I was home. I just wasn’t ready to talk about it. I’m still trying to wrap my head around everything. I swear I was about to call you.”

“Well, then, start talking. What’s going on? Did you do the dirty?” I knew this was coming.

“No. I already told you he won’t touch me until my birthday. Well, not completely. We were kind of grinding on each other while spooning this morning, and he was nuzzling my neck, but that’s all.”

“Whoa, I need details, but back up and start at the beginning. How did you end up with him in the first place? I thought you were going to play poker. There’s no way he could’ve been at another game again when this has never happened before.” I can hear the suspicion in his voice.

This was the part I was worried about explaining. I’m still clueless as to how Jackson found me, and I’m not sure whether to tell Walker about the assault or not. I don’t want to worry him for no reason, but I also don’t want to lie to my best friend more than necessary.

I describe the situation that led me to his house, glossing over how he knew where I was, finishing up with something to distract him.

“The important part is that he wants to date me, so we started by going to breakfast this morning.”

“Right after you dry-humped each other in bed… that’s not considered keeping his hands off, you know.”

“Hence the ‘not completely’ part. I didn’t exactly help the matter. If I’d had my way, he would’ve bypassed first and second and gone straight to third base, but he stopped when I tried to move his hand down. His willpower is annoying.”

“Holy shit, way to finally take the plunge. Do you seriously like this guy? Because other than the fact that he’s hot, he’s been a total prick. What changed?”

“Well, last night was insane, and then breakfast… wow. He’s the full package, Walker. He’s funny, sweet, a gentleman who opens doors, and he asks questions while actually listening to the answers. We hadn’t had any real conversation until last night, but it’s weird—he seems to know me. It’s like he’s been paying attention to everything since day one. Which may sound a little creepy, or it could prove that he really was interested this whole time but resisted.”

“Huh, so what? You’re in love now?” It sounds like Walker’s not as sold on the idea as I thought.

“Heck no, it’ll take more than a little chivalry and a few words for that. But if he’s for real, then I want to see where it leads.”

He sighs. “I can’t say I’m surprised. I saw it coming a mile away. Plus, he wouldn’t be taking you to Montana with him if he couldn’t stand you, which means he probably has ulterior motives. I’m glad I’ll meet him on Wednesday so I can check this guy out.”

“So, tell me this. He thinks I’ve been with other guys already. Do I say anything or just leave him in the dark? It’s not like he needs to know, right?”

“This might be one of those times when having a guy for a best friend isn’t very helpful, but as a guy, I’d want to know. It may be no big deal to you, but there are things he can do to make it better for you. And as your gay best friend, I can tell you that that’s important. If Ben had assumed I’d done it before, I may have never done it again. Do you need a clearer picture, or do you want me to leave it at that?”

“Please stop there. And I get what you’re saying, but what if I tell him, and he decides it’s too much hassle and changes his mind?”

“Then he’s not worth it anyway. If the guy is really into you the way he says he is, it shouldn’t matter. It’ll just change the way he goes about things.”

“But I don’t want him to change anything. I like how he is and don’t want to be treated with kid gloves. I want the raw version. Can’t I just tell him right before it happens? If it even does happen.”

“Mia, it’s going to happen. It’s just a matter of when, and if you want to wait until you’re right there, that’s up to you, as long as you give him some sort of heads-up before he rips you in two and then feels like a jerk about it. And if I were you, I’d be packing some sexy lingerie for your business trip .”

My eyes widen. I hadn’t thought of that. “Crap, you’re right. New plan, then. Can you take me shopping instead of lunch on Wednesday? Pleeeaaase?”

“Hell yeah. Shopping’s my specialty, baby. I’ll leave after third period and come straight to pick you up. See you at noon on Wednesday?”

“I can’t wait! Okay, I’ll see you then. Bye.”

He chuckles. “Bye, Mia.”

When I hang up the phone, I close my eyes, laying my arm over my face. I can’t believe I just had a conversation about having sex with Jackson. That I’m even thinking about sex with Jackson is crazy. My mind goes straight to the scene from his office that day—which happens more often than I’d like to admit—and my hand moves down my body of its own accord.

Picturing his climax makes my body clench with need. God… I want to feel his hands on me, his body on mine, feel him inside of me. My hand pushes under the waistband of my shorts and then into my panties before my fingers graze my clit. A quiet moan escapes as I move them in a circular motion over that sensitive area. I’ve never done this before and can’t believe how good it feels.

The more I picture Jackson, the faster my fingers move, making my breaths become hurried. “Oh God, Jackson. Yes, please,” I whisper.

The pressure is building, and I know something is coming. When I picture him telling me to take it all in like he did the day in his office, it gets closer. And when I take it up a notch by imagining him calling me his little girl , I erupt. The explosion hits me with a delicious clenching of my core, repeating over and over again. My fingers slow, and my breathing calms as it fades, and I slowly come back to earth.

How have I never done that before? That was a-maz-ing. My body is humming and more relaxed than it’s ever been. My mind is reeling with thoughts of how much better it will be with Jackson as I fade into the deepest sleep I’ve had in a long time.