14. We Have A Problem
Chapter 14
We Have A Problem
Ori
“H
ow was it?” Mina asks, resting her elbow on the counter.
“I would tell you, but then you’ll hate me because you had to survive a blizzard while I sat poolside, sipping tropical beverages.”
Mina rolls her eyes, but I see the grin threatening to explode across her face. “You’re right. I hate you.”
She doesn’t, of course. First, because the woman doesn’t have a mean bone in her body, and second, because she adores the idea of Ash and me together. Something about the undeniable attraction of polar opposites, which, I have to admit, isn’t entirely off base.
We are from opposite ends of the spectrum, but somehow, we work. I glimpsed us reflected in a storefront in Key West, and instead of looking ridiculous, we looked ... fabulous together. Like we were made to fit.
Of course, it could be love talking—a love only I feel ... for now. Still, I’m glad I said it. I’m glad he heard me.
I knew he wouldn’t say it back—he’s told me enough times he doesn’t believe in love—although some wisp of my romantic soul hoped he might surprise me.
No such luck. Not with words, anyway.
But then there was that moment. The one where he tossed the condom aside as though it didn’t matter anymore—his movements deliberate, his eyes locked on mine. Emotions flashed across his face—feral desire tangled with an unshakable certainty. There was no hesitation. I didn’t stop him. I couldn’t.
And it didn’t end there. The hunger in Ash was different after that—more intense and all-consuming. Something shifted in the man, and he couldn’t get enough of me. We caved to our carnal desires several times that last day, each time more urgent than the last, as if waiting was no longer an option.
Hell, he dragged me to a far corner of the first-class lounge at the airport, caging me in his arms as he pressed his length against me, his lips voracious against my neck as he whispered all the filthy things he had in store for me.
But he wasn’t content simply to tell me his plans.
“Turn around,” he demanded, twisting his hand in my long locks. “Place your hands on the wall.”
The devious glint in his eyes screamed trouble, but I couldn’t resist him. My breath hitched as I obeyed, my palms flat against the cool surface, anticipation thrumming through my body.
I gasped when his fingers slid beneath my skirt, plunging inside me with a deliberate, possessive rhythm.
The more I squirmed, the tighter he held me, his free hand bracing against my hip as he pushed me closer to the edge.
I don’t know who saw us, and Ash claimed he didn’t care.
He’s always possessed a healthy sexual appetite, but this was a whole new side of the man—ravenous, impatient, reckless. And I’d be lying if I said I didn’t love it.
There were the little moments, too. The sweet gestures which, in my heart, added up to love. As we walked through the airport, he kept his arm tight around me. During the plane ride, his hand never left my lap. And I caught the expression on his face as he watched me while we waited for the plane.
He didn’t think I saw him ... or maybe he did. Maybe it was his way of letting me know I wasn’t totally alone in this. That he feels it, too.
Either way, it was a fabulous vacation.
The bells chime over the door, jerking me back to the present moment. Glancing up, I smile as Kevin Duncan strides toward the register. The man has become a bit of a regular here, and despite his obvious wealth, he seems pleasant.
“Hello, Mr. Duncan.”
His gray eyes fix on me as he places his briefcase on the counter. “Please call me Kevin. Look at you—stunning color. You’ve escaped New York, haven’t you?”
“I have. Spent a few days in the Keys.”
A muscle jumps in his jaw, his smile tight. “How interesting. I hope you had amenable company. I own a glorious home down there. Next time you’re thinking of a trip, let me know.”
I’m not sure what the man is offering—his home or his company as my escort next time—but either way, it doesn’t sit right with me.
“We stayed in a beautiful resort.”
“Of course you did. Nothing but the best for you, Oriana.”
Time to steer this chat back to business topics. “What can I do for you? Hunting for another first edition? I got a few in last week.” I motion to the display case standing against the back wall. Each prized book nestles on velvet stands, highlighting their ornate leather-bound covers.
“No, actually. I have something for your friend, Asher.” He pulls a wrapped book from his briefcase, the leather-bound cover peeking through the tissue paper. “Would you be so kind as to see that he gets this?”
“Sure. He’s right next door, you know.”
“I know, but something tells me he’d far rather see you than me.” He snaps his briefcase shut and offers a stiff smile. “I’ll be making more regular visits to see you—I mean, your wonderful book collection. Until next time.”
The door swings shut behind him, leaving me standing there with the package in hand.
“What was that about?” Mina asks, eyeing the book curiously. “He brought you a gift?”
“Not me. This is for Ash.”
“Strange, I didn’t think they knew one another.”
“How do you know?”
“When Kevin was here another time, Ash was none too happy with how friendly he was toward you. But he didn’t act like he knew who he was when I mentioned his name.” She gives me a gentle nudge and a knowing look. “Then again, Ash is always jealous where you’re concerned.”
“Not hardly,” I reply with a roll of my eyes. “Although I will run this over to him. But first, tell me about you. Was it truly terrible while I was gone?”
Look, I know it’s no picnic to work short-staffed while knowing the person you’re covering for is lounging in the tropics. But I hope having Braden here to assist her made it a worthwhile undertaking.
Plus, I gave her the same number of days off I was away. Sure, she didn’t get to frolic on a beach, but she avoided blizzard number two, which swept through Sparkwood two days ago. Fair trade, right?
“Braden was a tremendous help. He dug out my car when it snowed and even followed me home.”
“Did he now?”
“He didn’t come inside,” she rushes to add, her cheeks flushing.
“Well, that’s just silliness on your part. Imagine the fun you two could have had.”
Despite her obvious beauty, Mina is the world’s worst flirt. She’s friendly and sweet with everyone else, but with Braden, she’s painfully shy—like a high schooler with a crush. If things are to move forward, it’s clear he’ll be the one holding the reins.
“I could barely speak to the man. Not everyone has the ability to spout such sinfully wicked things as you, Ori.”
“Imagine if they did? What a world it would be,” I reply, blowing a kiss to Ash as he scurries past the shop window. “I don’t know where he gets the energy.”
No joke. Since our return a week ago, I’ve only seen Ash in passing.
Apparently, the contractors needed him to make several decisions about Rum & Ruin’s renovation, and our vacation threw a wrench into their plans. To atone, Ash has been working on their schedule—which means he’s been running on caffeine and a prayer.
Judging by his hurried pace as he disappears downstairs, he hasn’t slowed down since.
I’ll admit, a small part of me wonders if my confession of love struck fear into him. Maybe he’s pulling back emotionally and using work as an excuse for the distance.
But a bigger part of me trusts him. Deeply.
Even if he can’t say the words, I know he cares about me.
Either way, I miss him. And I’d give anything to see him for just five minutes.
Lucky for me, I have something he wants and needs—coffee.
I smooth my blouse, steadying my nerves, and glance toward the door. “I think I’ll pop downstairs and have a look at the progress on the speakeasy.”
“Don’t tell me you can’t go a few hours without speaking to the man,” Mina snorts, her smirk cutting through the morning quiet.
“A few hours? I haven’t spent any time with him since we landed.”
“Really? He’s that busy?”
Something about Mina’s wide-eyed gaze doesn’t sit right. It stirs up the fear I’ve been trying to shove aside—the nagging thought that maybe, despite all the trust I’ve placed in him, Ash doesn’t know what to do with my declaration of love.
Best way to handle it? Bring him coffee and be my usual snarky but lovable self. No need to spiral into paranoia when I can take action instead.
“So he claims,” I reply with a casual shrug, popping a lid on an extra-large cup of coffee. I tuck the book from Kevin under my arm and motion toward the door. “The least I can do is bring him a refill. Poor man was relegated to gas station java this morning. The horror.”
“Likely story.”
“One I’ll keep telling,” I call over my shoulder, flashing Mina a grin before disappearing down the basement steps.
When I hit the floor, I do a double take. This can’t be the same basement. It just can’t.
The concrete walls are now paneled in a rich cherry wood, the kind that gleams under the soft, recessed lighting, casting a warm, inviting glow into every corner. What isn’t paneled is painted a deep emerald green that feels both luxurious and daring. The original oak bar has been restored to its former glory, every inch polished to a mirror-like finish, glistening proudly along the far wall.
There’s even a small stage at the front of the speakeasy, framed by delicate sconces, where no doubt any number of sexily clad flappers will entertain the masses. The room practically hums with anticipation, as if it’s already alive with laughter, music, and the clink of cocktail glasses.
It’s beautiful. Breathtaking, even. And for a moment, it feels like I’ve stepped back in time—only better, because Ash has left his mark on every inch of this space.
This is Rum & Ruin , and it’s going to be a triumph.
“What are you doing down here?”
I pivot, shooting Ash a smile as I motion to the stunning restorations around us. “This is incredible. Well done, you.”
“It’s not bad, is it?”
I smack his arm, shaking my head at his downplayed reaction. “Not bad? It’s every F. Scott Fitzgerald novel brought to life. You did it, Ash. You really did it.”
“Hard to believe.” His gaze drops to the coffee in my hand. “Is that for me?”
“You know it is. Black like your soul.”
“Cute, little one.” His eyes roam the length of me, his smirk widening as he takes a sip. “Thank you. I needed this.”
“No problem. Also, this came from one of my customers.” I hand him the package from Kevin.
Ash eyes it warily, his expression tightening ever so slightly. “Really? Who?”
“Kevin Duncan. He asked me to bring it to you.”
Ash sets the coffee on the bar and opens the package, his brows furrowing as he inspects the contents. “Huh. Interesting.”
“See? You’re the talk of the town. Everyone’s champing at the bit to get a drink here.”
“Funny thing is, I don’t know the guy,” Ash says, setting the package aside. “But I’ll check it out later.”
“So, is Rum & Ruin almost ready for her first guests?”
It’s strange. Although he’s giving me a blatant eye fuck, he hasn’t kissed me or even hugged me. After a week apart, I kind of hoped he’d miss me more. Maybe he’s too tired to do anything beyond work. At least, that’s what I’ll keep telling myself.
“Not yet,” Ash replies, running a hand over the polished bar. “There have been a few hang-ups, so it’s not going to open for another month or so.”
“I’m sorry. Is it because of our vacation?”
“Partly.” His mischievous smirk returns. “But you’re going to make it up to me.”
“I am? Ash, you’ve seen me with home repair. I’m dangerous with a hammer ... or any tool, for that matter.”
“Then we have a problem.”
The playfulness drops from his voice, his face stern as he stares at me, unblinking, arms crossed over his chest.
“We do?”
Uh-oh. What did I do now?
Trust me, I ask myself that question a lot. My mouth has gotten me into hot water more times than I can count.
“Big problem. Huge.”
Ash grips my elbow, his grip firm as he leads me toward the back of the basement. “We’ll be back, guys,” he calls over his shoulder.
Although there isn’t an overabundance of space, Ash had the crew fashion a small office in the back corner of the speakeasy, complete with a leather settee, wood desk, and a tiny private bath.
“So, what kind of problem do we have?” I ask, my brows raising when Ash latches the door behind us.
But Ash doesn’t say a word as he lifts me into his arms and deposits me on the desk. His hands hike my skirt up as he tears at my tights, pulling them down in one rapid movement.
“Oh, we have that kind of problem.” I purr out the words, twining my fingers in his hair.
He cups my face, his thumbs brushing my cheeks as his eyes lock on mine. “I can’t stop thinking about you.”
“A woman likes to be missed.”
He buries his head against my skin, his mouth latching onto the sensitive spot just below my ear, and I gasp, the heat of his breath and the scrape of his teeth sending a shiver down my spine. His hands grip my thighs, firm and possessive, guiding them around his waist until there’s no space left between us. “It’s more than that. I can’t fucking breathe when you’re not here.”
He drags his head up, his gaze locking on mine. “I need you, Ori. Tell me I can.”
There’s something so intense about his energy—this raw need all directed at me.
Nibbling his lower lip, I murmur, “I’m yours.”
That’s all he needs to hear. Ash loosens his belt and jeans, letting them fall to his ankles. He slides his hands beneath my ass, and, without hesitation, thrusts inside me, his body trembling as he pauses.
“You feel too good,” he rasps, his voice husky with want.
“I told you that first night, we’re a perfect fit.”
His movements are slow and deliberate, his eyes never leaving mine. His hands anchor me as his rhythm builds, each thrust sending waves of heat through me, driving me closer and closer to the edge.
The faint sound of workers talking on the other side of the door presses at the edges of my mind, but Ash doesn’t seem to care. His focus is entirely on me, his pace steady, his breathing rough.
I bite back a cry, my teeth sinking into my lip as my body tightens around him.
“Ash,” I manage, my voice breaking.
His fingers slide into my mouth, and I circle my tongue around them, watching the desire flame in his eyes and knowing in this moment, at least, I own the man—body and soul.
The slow burn builds between us until I catch fire, our bodies trembling with the intensity of release. Ash collapses onto his forearms, his ragged breaths warm against my ear.
“You’re everything, Ori.” His words emerge in a whisper, so faint I can barely hear them.
Perhaps my mind is imagining things, although one thing is for certain—we didn’t use anything. Again .
Ash glides his thumb along my lower lip, a strange smile on his face. “You’re really fucking pretty.”
I chuckle and shake my head at his personal brand of compliment. Since almost our first night together, that’s been his signature—where I’m concerned, at least.
Ash stands and walks to the bathroom, returning with a small towel. Then he wipes me down, setting me to rights after our illicit tryst.
And now it’s time to address the elephant in the room.
"We’re tempting fate.” I worry my lower lip with my teeth as I pull my tights up and smooth my skirt.
"I just don’t care. I guess I really like you," he replies, his tone casual and matter of fact.
For a man who claims he doesn’t believe in love, moments like this make me wonder if he’s lying to himself—or both of us.
I snort out a laugh. “Wow. That was almost romantic.”
He grins, his familiar cocky edge softening. “I was thinking hot and sexy, but romantic works, too.”
“Don’t worry. Your secret is safe with me.”
“Would you like me to refrain from doing that again?” Ash leans casually against the desk, but his gaze never wavers, cutting through the space between us.
Do I? No, I don’t. Some might call it mad, but I feel so connected to him now. Plus, we had the talk about safety and getting tested long before this aspect came into play.
Look, I’m a romantic, but I’m not an idiot.
“Just warning you—we’re playing with fire.” I walk into the bathroom and use the mirror to twist my hair into a loose bun, pulling a few strands free to frame my face.
Ash joins me, resting his head on my shoulder, his green eyes meeting mine in the reflection. For a moment, the world fades away—just him, me, and the crackling heat between us.
“Ori, I’ve been playing with fire since our first night together,” he murmurs.
“You know what I mean.”
“I do—and I told you I don’t care. So, I guess I must really like you.”
“Or you really like the way my pussy feels,” I reply as a smirk tugs at my lips.
His laugh is low and rough, but he doesn’t miss a beat. “Smart ass,” he murmurs, pressing a kiss to my cheek. His tone softens, quieter, more vulnerable. “You, Ori. I really like you .”
That settles it. He’s the best medicine in the world, and sex with Asher Hammond will definitely cure what ails you … although I’ll cut any woman who goes near him now. Just saying.
“Are you free tomorrow?” Ash asks as I return to his office.
“I am. Why?”
“I have a surprise for you.” He rubs the back of his neck, his gaze darting to mine before glancing away.
“Another one?” Not that I’m complaining—the Keys were heaven.
“What can I say? I love surprising you.” He shoots me a wide grin. Seems he’s not disclosing any additional information.
Works for me.
“I love being surprised, so keep them coming, big man.”
“Be ready tomorrow at eight, okay?”
“Done and done.” I step closer and steal a kiss from his soft lips. “I’m really proud of you. You had a dream, and you brought it to life.”
“There’ve been a lot of dreams coming true lately,” he murmurs.
A knock at the office door breaks our moment, but not before I catch the look in his eyes—nervous, yes, but also hopeful.
I’m not just another good time.
Even if he can’t say it now—possibly ever—I’m pretty damn certain he feels it. At least some degree of it. I’m clinging to that hope … along with the glorious orgasm my man just gifted me.
“What were you doing?” Mina asks the second I return to One More Page.
“Giving Ash coffee, which is exactly what I told you I was doing.”
She clears her throat, pulling a shred of paper from my hair. “And what was he giving you ?”
My cheeks burn as I wave her off and walk to the opposite side of the counter. “Behave.”
“Well, someone has to.” Mina motions to a well-dressed man by the coffee bar. “He wants to speak with you.”
“What about?”
“He wouldn’t say, but insisted on waiting for your return, so he’s not a customer.”
“Wonderful,” I mutter, heading toward the man.
“May I help you?”
The portly gentleman smiles and stands, extending his hand. “Ms. Thorne?”
“Yes.”
“I represent McGwyer Holdings, and they would like to make an offer on your property.”
“I don’t own this building.”
“But you own the Dean Estate.”
Fuck, he’s another seedy investor. They’re like cockroaches—you smash one, and ten more pop up.
I straighten my shoulders, refusing to let this man see any sign of weakness. “I do, and I’ve no desire to sell.”
The man, unfazed, pulls some papers from his briefcase. “I think you’d do well to consider their offer. Miss, it’s a lovely house, but it will require extensive renovations. The costs will be considerable, and I doubt you’ll recoup it when you sell. McGwyer can take it off your hands.”
“I’m not concerned about the cost. I considered that when I bought it.”
“You’re a single woman. What in the world do you need all that space for?”
“Excuse me?” My voice rises, sharp and cold.
Who the hell does this man think he is?
I open my mouth, ready to put this arrogant prick in his place, but a low, familiar voice cuts through the air behind me.
“First, that’s none of your damn business.”
Ash steps into view, his broad shoulders practically blocking me from sight. His arms cross over his chest, and the man takes a small step back under the weight of Ash’s glare.
“Second,” Ash continues, his tone hard as steel, “just because she’s single now doesn’t mean it will always be that way. Hell, she wants like a dozen kids.”
I’m not sure which shocks me more: the brazenness of this stranger or Ash’s defense, boldly stating I’m not bound for a life of spinsterhood.
“But how will she afford the repairs?” the man persists, clearly grasping at straws.
“Again, none of your business,” Ash fires back, his voice carrying an edge that leaves no room for debate. “Between Ori and me, there are more than enough funds. Are we done here? I think we are.”
The man stammers something unintelligible, straightening his tie like that will save face, then quickly gathers his papers and scurries toward the door.
As the door swings shut behind him, I glare at the space he left behind, my pulse still pounding.
Ash smirks, his eyes softening as they meet mine. “He’s a piece of work.”
“He’s not wrong about the costs.” I mumble out the admission, hating that there is truth to that asshole’s words.
Ash steps closer, brushing a strand of hair from my face. “Doesn’t matter. You don’t have to face it alone. Not anymore.”
The blood pounds in my ears, so loud I can barely hear his next words.
He glances at the clock. “I have to run, but I’ll see you tomorrow. Don’t worry. We’ve got this, Ori.”
“Damn, but that was hot.” Mina walks over, joining me at the coffee bar, her grin as wide as the Hudson.
“Are you talking about that smarmy investor? If so, we need to work on your taste in men.”
Mina waves her hand, a look of disgust passing over her features. “Not him. Ash and his full-throttle defense of you.”
“I didn’t even hear him walk in.”
“You should have seen his face when he overheard what that jerk was saying to you. Stormed over like he was about to strangle him.”
“It was impressive. My own personal bodyguard.” I’m trying to downplay it, but Mina is right. Ash’s tongue lashing hit me in all the feels.
“Way more than that. Did you hear him? She won’t always be single. She wants twelve kids. Ori and I will handle the expenses.” She hops onto the counter, her face alight with mischief. “I just need to know. When’s the wedding?”
“For God’s sake,” I mutter, grabbing a stack of books to return to the shelves, hoping to smother the blush creeping up my neck.
“I’m serious. Ash doesn’t behave that way—ever. I told you, Ori. He’s different around you.”
“You barely knew the man before.”
“I knew of him, and trust me, that’s enough to know this isn’t typical behavior. He wants a future with you.”
“I highly doubt that.”
“Why?”
I stop mid-step, as the bluntness of her question catches me off guard, and the raw truth bursts from my mouth before I can stop it. “Because he doesn’t love me.”
The room falls quiet. My voice trembles as the words hang in the air, stark and painful. I grip the edge of the counter, my knuckles white.
Mina tilts her head, her expression softening. “How do you know?”
“I told him I loved him, and he reiterated that although he cares for me, that emotion isn’t in his wheelhouse.”
“Hmm.”
“What?” I snap, hoping my friend will take the hint and switch to a less painful subject.
"Actions speak louder than words, right? For someone who doesn’t believe in love, he sure acts like he does." Mina gives me a soft smile before hopping off the counter, as if she didn’t just drop the most casual bombshell in history.
Then, in typical Mina fashion, she waltzes away, leaving my mouth agape and my emotions fluttering.
Why do her words affect me so? Because they echo my own thoughts—the idea that Ash, despite his arguments to the contrary, has fallen as hard and fast as I have.
Maybe I’ll bring it up tomorrow. After all, Ash did mention having a surprise for me.
The man is full of surprises, and so far, I’ve loved every single one.