Chapter fifteen
Maria
I drop my bags on my living room floor and let out a sigh. It was an incredible weekend with my best friend. I love coming home and getting back into my routine, but I also hate leaving when I’ve had such an incredible time with my friend. The weekend with Nikki was everything I needed, a perfect blend of laughter, relaxation, and epic adventures. My home is peaceful and welcoming, always an oasis after a whirlwind of activity.
I kick off my shoes and head straight for the bathroom. Nothing sounds better than a hot soak to help me relax after a long day of travel. I start the water in the tub, adding in my favorite peach scented bubble bath, then step back as the tub fills. I move out to the living room and take my phone out of my purse, finally turning it on after days of it being off.
I’m cringing just a bit not knowing what to expect. I wonder how Mason’s handled my absence. I might have a tiny bit of guilt as I know I wouldn’t have liked him disappearing on me for two solid days. Then again, we don’t have to be in contact with each other twenty-four-seven. Relationships are supposed to be about balance.
My phone comes to life with a bang, lighting up with multiple notifications from work, friends, and family. Most people in my life know I go dark for girl weekends so it’s no problem. When all of the notifications are finished flashing on my screen I see only one message from Mason. I open it with a bit of apprehension. Only one message either means he’s very secure or he’s irritated with me. I’m not sure which it will be.
Mason: Missing you already. I don’t like waking to find you gone. Next time, set the alarm an hour earlier so I can send you off satisfied.
A smile tugs on my lips at the message. I can handle this in one of two ways. I can apologize and explain myself, or I can be playful and flirty and see if he’ll play along. This will tell me a whole lot about him. I decide for the second option.
I discard my clothes then slip into the hot bath, the water enveloping me, instantly relaxing my muscles and easing my worry. I’ve never cared so much before about what a guy thinks about me or what I’m doing. This is strange, but I like Mason, I really like him. I get comfortable then grab my phone and type out a message.
Maria: I had a phone-off weekend with Nikki which was wonderful. You might’ve been on my mind a whole lot . . . especially at night. Right now I’m really thinking about you as I lie in this hot, hot, hot, bubbly tub.
I lift one of my legs from the water, bubbles clinging to my skin, and snap a picture to attach to the text, ensuring the angle is suggestive and tasteful at the same time. I send the picture and message, then find my heart thudding as I wait for a response. I’m hopeful he’ll play along. I haven’t felt the spark of a new relationship in a long time.
There are immediate dots on the phone showing me he’s looking at my message right now. I decide to set my phone on the side of the tub instead of staring at it while I wait.
Mason: Are you trying to torture me with this picture?
A thrill runs through me at his words. He must not be upset with me because he doesn’t even comment on the blackout, instead liking the picture I’ve just sent.
Maria: I might be trying to torture you just a little, but only because I’m aching for you. You pleasured me so well before my trip that it hurts to not have your hands all over me right now.
Mason: I got called out of town this morning or I’d be driving to your house so fast you wouldn’t have a chance to hide! Instead, it appears we both have to be tortured.
I let out a groan of frustration, not realizing how much I was hoping he’d do just that. Now that I’m back in town he’s the only one I want to see. It appears we’re both going to be miserable tonight. I don’t regret my trip, will never regret time with Nik, but I want to have bestie time, and be ravaged by Mason right after. Can’t I have it all?
Maria: I guess it helps to know you’re left wanting as much as I am. Right now I’m running my hands over my breasts . . . down my stomach . . . and between my thighs . . .
I send another photo showing my hand beneath the bubbles, my legs spread wide, my knees sticking up. I never send raunchy photos, but this feels safe because my face isn’t in the image and nothing indecent is showing. I lay my head back as my fingers whisper over my clit. I picture Mason sitting in the tub with me. I’ve never needed a man as much as I need him right here and now.
Mason: You’re playing dirty. I want you to picture my tongue where your fingers are right now. I’m lying in bed naked with my hand moving up and down my dick as I imagine your mouth there instead.
I lean back as I move my fingers faster, my breath panting out as I imagine how hard and thick he is right now. I can picture his fingers squeezing his thick flesh while the tip glistens with his come, which only turns me on that much more. I sink my fingers inside myself while my thumb continues rubbing circles. I let out a moan as an orgasm washes through me. It takes off the edge but isn’t nearly as satisfying as if Mason was with me.
Maria: I just had a very unsatisfying orgasm. When do you get back to town so you can give me a better one?
I’m done flirting and playing games. I want Mason right here with me to take off this edge that only he can create and sate. I’m trying not to be clingy, but he’s awoken something in me that only he can tame. It takes Mason a few more moments to respond.
Mason: I understand the feeling of unsatisfaction. It will have to do until Friday. I’ll be away all week. I’ll be thinking about you the entire time. Don’t make weekend plans. You’re mine.
A shudder runs through me. Yes. There will be no other plans made that don’t involve this man, at least not for a while. No matter how scary it is to depend on him so much, I’m already involved, and I might as well accept it. I can’t even pretend I want to be anywhere else but with him. For the first time in what feels like ever, I’ll be looking forward to work ending and fun beginning.
Maria: I’m all yours.
I don’t add more to this. I don’t need to. I climb from the tub, dry off, then sink into bed naked. I don’t usually like sleeping in the nude as I always worry there will be a fire or something else that will make me need to run from the place quickly. But I have no energy left to get dressed. Mason and I say goodnight, and I fall asleep missing him.
The next day dawns, and it’s back to work as usual. I’m comfortable in my routine. It doesn’t take long to jump back into it. As much as I think the week will drag, I find myself having fun as I work while also sharing flirtatious messages, teasing photos, and long conversations with Mason that make me miss him even more.
Each time we speak we learn more about each other, and I grow even closer to the man through playful banter, deep conversations, and some serious sexual tension. By the time Friday comes, I’m practically buzzing with anticipation.
I’m meeting Mason tonight for a dinner at his mother’s house which scares me to death. It’s so soon to meet her, but he assures me it’s a large gathering and a good opportunity to speak with his brother, too. I’ve been thrown into many situations, and I can handle this. Just because I’m meeting his mother doesn’t mean anything . . . does it?
No matter how many pep talks I give myself it doesn’t stop the trembling in my fingers as I pull up to the address Mason sent. The home is large, and there are a lot of vehicles in the huge parking area. This makes me feel better. It’s not an intimate dinner where all eyes will be on me.
I follow a lit path to the backyard where the sound of laughter and music is drawing me in. As soon as I enter the yard, I see Mason who starts heading my way, his eyes bright, and a smile resting on his lips. Damn, he’s beautiful.
“A week is too long,” he tells me before pulling me close. “You’re stunning.” He leans down and kisses me. It’s not the kiss either of us want, but there are a lot of people around so that will need to come later. I’ll take what I can get for now. It’s crazy how much I’ve missed this man I didn’t even know a month ago. When someone enters your life who makes an impact, there’s no turning back. Mason is that man and he’s here to stay no matter what happens. Even if we don’t work out, he’ll reside in my mind and soul for many years to come.
“A week is way too long. Never have I resented work before, but this week has been torture,” I admit.
“I know what you mean,” he says. “But we’re together now and I’m not letting you go until Monday morning.” I hope he means this because I don’t want him to let me go.
“I have zero problem with that,” I tell him. I’m okay with him not letting me go for much longer than that. My heart’s pounding and my skin’s flushed. This isn’t how I want to look when I meet his mother. It doesn’t matter though, as I can’t stop my reactions when it comes to him. Hopefully everyone will think my flushed skin has to do with the heat and not my desire.
“As much as I want to sneak out of here right now to be alone with you, my mother will hunt me down.” He chuckles as he takes my hand then leads me into the crowd. I look around for familiar faces and see Miles who smiles at me.
His arm is around a beautiful woman who’s animatedly talking to someone. My eyebrows raise as I realize this is Emily. She looked different at the engagement party, but I suppose most people look different when they’re dressed to impress. I also see Kevin, Tom, and Nathan amongst the people. I don’t know them well, but at least they’re familiar faces.
A few of the other people look familiar, but no names are coming to mind. The atmosphere’s relaxed, but also clearly filled with camaraderie and good-natured ribbing. I wouldn’t expect anything less when Mason’s team members are here.
The next hour is a slew of introductions while Mason takes me around to people, his hand never leaving mine. My stomach’s in knots as I haven’t met his mother yet. At this point I’d rather get that part over with. Apparently, she’s in the kitchen cooking which Mason tells me she loves. I’m more relaxed the longer we’re here as everyone is very welcoming.
“Ah, there’s Mom,” Mason finally says, and I look up to see a petite woman moving down the deck stairs heading right for us. I must clutch Mason’s hand tightly because he chuckles. “You’ll love her. There’s nothing to be afraid of,” he assures me.
That’s easy for him to say. She moves up to us. “You must be Maria,” she says with a friendly smile.
“It’s very nice to meet you, Mrs. Bennett,” I tell her.
She shakes her head. “We aren’t that formal here. Please call me Patty.”
“Of course,” I say. “I love your place. It’s very beautiful, and the food and drinks are delicious. This is also quite the gathering. You have a great group of friends and family.”
“My children love to have crowds. I think it’s because their egos are so big they need lots of people fawning all over them.” This makes me laugh.
“I might have to agree with you on that,” I tell her. “Since one’s an athlete, and the other is a world-famous author, they’re far too used to people fawning over them. It might stroke their egos a bit too much.” She laughs and the corners of her eyes crinkle in amusement. Within seconds of speaking to her I relax. Mason’s right, his mother’s wonderful and so easy to speak to.
We chat a few more minutes before she’s pulled away, and then we’re off to visit with more of the guests. There are so many people it’s like being at a conference, and even with my good recollection of names I won’t remember even half of the people here. I love all of the people and how welcoming they are, but it’s way too many names to retain them all, and the faces and names start to blur together.
We all snack before the official dinner’s brought out which isn’t good as there are enough appetizers to be the main meal on their own. From the smells coming off of the barbecues I certainly want to leave room, though. It’s a casual buffet style with enough food to feed several entire football teams. There’s no way we can get through even a quarter of it. There’s no formal table, so we all move around, sitting in groups before grazing some more. The laughter and visiting continue as we eat, making me feel like I’m a part of the family.
While we eat and chat, people move around playing different games. There are nerf guns which the football players have far too much fun with shooting everyone, making an all-out battle occur at one point. I’m lucky enough to team up with Mason who can’t seem to be beat. Then again, this is his home, and he knows all of the good places to hide while he pings people left and right.
Some people want nothing to do with the nerf war, and instead, team up to play ladder ball, horseshoes, corn hole, and even badminton. I’m pretty good at badminton and take out the other team with Mason at my side. This is the most fun I’ve had at a backyard BBQ before. As much as I want to be alone with Mason, I also don’t want to leave.
While some people continue playing games, a large fire is lit in a huge pit, and several of us gather around, enjoying the heat as the evening air cools, making me want to wrap up in a blanket while snuggled against Mason’s warm chest. Sticks are pulled out and the most epic S’mores bar I’ve ever seen before is set up. I’m already stuffed, but I still make room for a gooey marshmallow treat.
As I sit back eating, Mason appears at my side again. He leans close. “I’m so glad you’re here,” he tells me.
“I’m glad I’ve come. This is wonderful. You have an incredible family and the best friends anyone could ever hope for.”
“Everyone loves you,” he says. This makes my heart skip a beat. I want to ask if he’s one of the people who love me. This is such an unexpected thought I don’t know what to think about it. Terrified comes to mind. It’s way too soon to be thinking of that word.
I’m not going anywhere though. All I want to do right now is see where this thing between us is heading. It’s more than I could’ve ever imagined. How strange to think we only met about a month ago. I can’t imagine my life without him in it now. I might not know what the future’s going to bring us, but knowing we’re together and happy is enough for now.
As the evening begins winding down Mason excuses himself to get some coffee. Miles sits down next to me. I give him a warm smile. It’s funny to me now that I was irritated about being assigned to bring him into my publishing house. Now that I know him, I’m thrilled about it because I truly like the man as a person and as an author. He’s so talented and such a good person to boot.
“We’ve both been so busy since the conference we haven’t had a chance to talk in depth about our deal,” he tells me. “I hate bringing work up at such a fun event, but in our world work is never far from the surface. I’m a regular workaholic; most of my storytelling comes from my everyday activities.”
“I know what you mean. At least in my experience, authors who are truly happy in their personal lives write with so much detail and love. Those who are unhappy make some great thrillers.” This makes both of us laugh.
“I know some thriller writers who are very happy. They just have some twisted imaginations. I’d love to live in their dreams for a night or two.”
I nod in agreement. “I have to admit I have some strange dreams myself. I’m a very happy person, but maybe that’s because my dreams are so twisted that all of that energy gets out of me in my sleep,” I tell him.
“That’s a perfect way to look at it,” he agrees.
“I spoke to Ruth a few days ago and was going to message you and see if we can meet up this week. I think the two of you will vibe well together.”
“I’m looking forward to meeting with her. I have a feeling we can create some serious magic together,” he says.
“I know I won’t always love every author I work with, but it helps to like them, and I really like Ruth. I think doing this project with the two of you will be wonderful.”
He grins at me. “I love the passion you have for this world. It makes a difference and inspires creativity.”
“I love what I do. It helps that I’m such a fan of reading. There’s real magic in the written word, and there’s nothing I love more than being a part of bringing a story to life and sharing it with the world. I understand how much work’s involved, but when the work is magical, it doesn’t matter.”
“I feel the same. There are times I have a difficult time forcing myself to sit and write when I’m not feeling it, but that never lasts. The second my fingers are on the keyboard something shifts within me, and I become a part of the story,” Miles says.
“It shows in your work. I’ve read a few of your books now and love how unique each one is. You’re incredibly talented and so diverse in your writing. You certainly can’t be categorized. I love it.”
“I appreciate that. Sometimes I’ll re-read my old work, and I’m horrified that I came up with it. There are also times I know I’ve hit a home run, as my brother likes to say, when I get lost in my old work. I had to write a spin-off of one of my series, so I listened to an older book to refresh my memory, and there was a point when I was listening where I forgot it was my own book. I was thrilled to be lost in my own story. That rarely happens.”
I laugh at this. “I’m not a writer so I don’t know what that would feel like, but I know I’ve re-read some books I liked in the past that I didn’t love later, and some that I loved even more.”
We continue chatting for a moment when Mason returns and hands me a coffee. We both want to be fully present tonight to enjoy every moment of our alone time.
“What are you two talking so intensely about?” Mason asks.
“Books, of course,” Miles says.
“I shouldn’t have had to ask,” Mason says with a laugh. “My brother has been lost in the world of books since Mom was reading us stories at a year old. She has videos of Miles bringing her one book after another. When we were about eight he took over storytelling time and Mom and me would sit there while he read the bedtime stories.”
“I’m happy to be the designated storyteller,” Miles says with a grin. I notice that Mason and Miles have Patty’s eyes when they smile.
“I might need you to come over and read my kids stories when the time is right.”
“You know I’ll be the best uncle in the world and will gladly do that,” Miles says.
Something in my stomach tugs as they speak of children. It’s not something I’ve thought about in a long time. I’ve always assumed I’d be a mother someday, but work has consumed me for so long that motherhood has been put on the backburner. Miles and Mason talking so openly about future children has a longing running through me.
I’m quiet for a moment as the brothers continue talking. I can picture a sweet little boy with Mason’s hazel eyes sitting in my lap while we read stories together. It sounds like total perfection.
The night winds down and I’m both excited to be alone with Mason, and a little bummed to leave such a great group of people behind. But as I do walk away with Mason’s arm wrapped around me, I’m right where I want to be. As we drive together in my vehicle, as Mason anticipated this and didn’t bring his car, he keeps his hand on my thigh making me lose my concentration.
This has been one more perfect day with Mason in a long line of great times with the man. Anticipation fills me. One thing I know for sure is that whatever comes next will be wonderful. I’m starting to believe nothing can pop this bubble the two of us are enclosed in.