Julian
Chapter Five
Julian
I was so grateful that lunch was over. I set the dishes in the dishwasher, thanking Everly before excusing myself because my phone began to ring. “Hello, Mom.”
“Hey sweetheart. What time are you coming over?”
“I’ll be there in about an hour. I was getting ready.” I give Everly a sheepish smile, feeling like I’m abandoning her even though I don’t owe her an explanation for where I’m going or who I’m going with. It’s been a while since I visited with my family, and I promised that I’d come over. There is a big gathering at the clubhouse today, and with the weather playing nicely, we should have a good turnout of Steele Riders and their kin.
Besides, I had to get away from Everly before I did something stupid. Hell, I already did something stupid kissing her finger was reckless.
Every bit of the meal was like a ticking time bomb. Most of it we sat in silence, each of us aware of the growing tension, the heat hotter than the summer sun, and when she lifted the damn fork to her lips, I wanted to toss it on the floor and take her on the table. Everything I do has been crazily pushing boundaries beyond necessary. She was driving me wild.
I’d been in the shower and stroking my cock, knowing damn well she was down the hall. Hell, I put the laundry basket in the room because I saw she took the hamper away. She must have realized I was in the shower which means she could have heard me saying her name over and over again as I came. Is that why she cut herself?
“Hey Drake, yeah. Julian’s right here, but he’s about to leave.” I slam my eyes shut as I tuck my wallet in my pocket. “He’s always on the run,” she continues with a giggle. “Okay, I’ll tell him.” She ends her call and approaches me.
“What’s up with Drake?” I grunt.
“He’s good, but he said he called you over the past couple of days and you haven’t called him back.”
“Shit. Yeah. So why did the asshole hang up? When I’m busy, I get distracted, and he knows that.” I shake my head and pull out my cell phone. Calling my best friend back so he can stop being a whiny little bitch and I can stop feeling guilty about avoiding him because I want to smash his little sister. “Hey, Drake, how’s it going?”
“It’s great. I’m loving this place and I’m trying to convince your ass to come and join me.”
“Not going to happen. You know I love it here and wouldn’t leave no matter what.”
“Fine. Well, that’s not the only reason I’m calling. Are you standing close to Everly?” he asks in a conspiratorial whisper.
“Yeah, why?” I answered, taking a peek in her direction before moving my gaze toward the window.
“Well, I wanted to talk to you about her.”
“Okay, give me a minute.” I walk off to my bedroom and close the door. “What’s up?”
“Nothing too bad, but I’m not liking the friends she has. They’re trying to get her in trouble and my mom told me she’s into some guy so bad that she’ll end up knocked up soon. She didn’t say who, only that she’s crushing hard.”
“I haven’t seen her with anyone,” I growl.
“That’s good, but then again, you have rules so if she’s seeing someone it’s when they’re not at your place.” Fuck, he had a point. Was my brother not doing his damn job? I know he was only following her to and from school, but there were moments when she was out with friends. I needed someone to keep tabs on her then. Employing some of the prospects for that job was a must.
“You don’t know who this asshole is?” I asked. There was a severe pain in my chest at the notion that she was seeing some guy. She deserved someone special and the fact that no one was good enough for her didn’t help. Frankly, I was the only one for her.
“No, but it’s probably someone she’s seeing from school. I’m just worried about her getting knocked up. She’s old enough to date even if I don’t like it.”
“You’ve changed your mind quickly about her dating.”
“Well, she’s twenty, Julian. I just don’t like the idea of bastards acting like me or her acting like my mom and falling head over heels for fucking dumb punks who aren’t worth her time or getting her pregnant. What happens if she doesn’t finish her certification first or gets a decent gig? My mom fell into that trap and struggled. I don’t want to see Everly make the same mistake.”
He had a point. She would struggle, but not if she was mine because not only would she finish, but I would help her anyway I could. I had a trust fund that could cover our needs for the rest of our lives, not to mention my earnings as a doctor. I’m sure she’d earn a lot as a stylist. She’s shown me her work, and it’s good. I’ve even allowed her to give me a haircut. From now on, no one else will be allowed to cut my hair.
Besides, he has a lot of room to talk. He’s out there banging anything that walks. He’s lucky that he hasn’t knocked anyone else up. His residency is up, but he’s got student loans and a long time before he’s making a killing.
“I understand. What do you want me to do? I’m about to head out?”
“See if you can find out who this fuck is.” That is something I sure as hell will do for my own sake.
“I’ll see, but you’re probably closer to finding out.”
“You’re probably right,” he chuckles. “Have a good one and maybe I can get you to change your mind and choose a position up here. Although I hope it’s after my sister gets hired down there.”
“Still not happening, but nice try.”
“Fine. Take care and try talking to her about being safe at least. I’m not interested in having the safe sex talk with her.” I sure the fuck ain’t interested in that talk. The only safe sex talk I’m having with her is to keep a motherfucker safe from me. They better keep their dicks far away from her before I kill them. The thought of any man sniffing around her sets my teeth on edge.
I’m the only bastard who can be sniffing around her.
I’m glad we didn’t have that damn discussion before I left because I wouldn’t have been able to leave before I found out who the asshole who caught her interest. Angry and full of jealousy, I ride my motorcycle fast, too fucking fast through traffic and make it to Steeleville in short order.
She’s young and men would be stupid not to be hitting on her like crazy.
When I get to the clubhouse everyone is there, greeting me, but they’re looking around suspiciously. My father meets me with a strong one arm hug. “Hey, Pops, it’s good to see you. How are you?”
“Hey, mijo. It’s good to see you. Still running from your wife?” he chuckles, looking around me to see if I’m hiding Everly.
“She’s not my wife,” I grumble.
“But you want her to be.”
“Yes, but have you considered she doesn’t? Fuck, I just found out that she’s probably seeing someone. Since I don’t let anyone in my home, when she’s not around she could be out fucking around.”
“Where did you get that crazy idea from?”
“I spoke to her brother today who told me that her mother said she’s into some guy.”
“Maybe you two need to talk.”
“That’s not as easy as you think. She’s living with me and what if she’s not interested and I make her feel uncomfortable?”
“She doesn’t want you? Has she given you any indication of that?”
“She doesn’t want any of my money or help. She calls me old and tells me I’m her father or something.”
“Maybe it’s because you boss her around like she’s a kid instead of a woman,” my sister says.
“Or maybe…she wants a good spanking” My other sister says walking away with a wink.
“As gross as that is coming from Isabella; your sister might be right,” my father mutters.
“She totally is. The early gray is totally giving daddy vibes, cuz. Girls love a hot older guy,” Beast’s daughter says.
“What did you say, wife?” Will growls.
She presses her hand to his chest, soothing him. “It’s true. You need to see social media. It’s everywhere, but you’re my everything.”
“Not into dudes, but thanks, sweetheart.”
“I’m not getting old,” I growl.
“No, but you’re a lot older than her,” Will adds. I want to kick his ass, but as the head of the Riders that wasn’t a smart move. Besides, it would be a hell of a fight.
“Thanks for the reminder why I’ve been staying away as much as I can and taking on more shifts than I need.” After I finished my residency, I could have cut it down to three shifts a week, but I wanted to build up a wall before I smashed Everly on every damn surface of the apartment.
Will claps my shoulder and chuckles. “If that was a good reason. Most of us wouldn’t exist.”
“Fair point,” I grumble. I need a beer and as if reading me like a book, my father hands me a cold one. “Thanks.”
“Trust me. We’ve all been down this road, and Will can tell you that patience can pay off. Just don’t be dumb and blow it by letting anyone else get in the way.”
“I need someone watching over her when I can’t.”
“Are you afraid there’s another guy or because you’re worried about her safety?” Will asks.
“A bit of both,” I confess.
“Don’t worry, cuz. I’ve got you. I’ll have two guys at your disposal. Just put in the call and we’ll have them watch over her when needed.”
“It shouldn’t be often. As far as I can tell, she doesn’t leave the apartment much, but when she does, it’s with her one friend.”
“Got it. I can make it happen. We have several prospects with shit to do at the moment and are looking for an assignment, so this is perfect.” I shook his hand and then followed my father out who wants me to shoot some pool.
It’s well after midnight when I get home and all the lights are off, so I carefully creep into the apartment, hoping that I don’t disturb her.
There’s a note on the dry erase board which we got because it was easier than a notepad.
Dinner is stored in the green container for lunch tomorrow.
I smile to myself and then leave my own note just so she knows I saw it.
Thank you, baby girl.
After taking a piss, I walk to bed and strip down to my boxer briefs. I pulled out my computer and brought up the footage from today. My eyes linger on her in the kitchen. Then I remembered that she could have seen me in the shower. I played it back and realized that she had her headphones in and was out of my bedroom quickly, so she probably didn’t hear anything.
That’s fucking good. I didn’t need to embarrass myself like that. If she knew how damn much I stroked my cock with just the way she twirled her hair or from the sight of her at the stove, she’d run out of this apartment and demand her brother pick her up after he beat my ass or at least try.
I set my laptop down and went to sleep since I have to work in the morning, but I didn’t get an ounce of rest because Everly had been on my mind. Lately she’s always in my head.
Before, I could easily block her and focus on the goals I had because I felt like she was unattainable, a silly fantasy, but my family got into my head and now it’s gotten out of hand. I have to be careful or Everly will be tied to my bed getting stuffed with my big cock, begging to be free or screaming for more, depending on who in my family is correct, my sister or my cousin.
****
After my visit to Steeleville last week, I wanted to test my family’s theory, but I didn’t get a chance. I had to work non-stop and on my one day off, she had a full day of classes. Today we’re both off, so I have something in mind. Besides, today’s a special day so as Everly entered the kitchen, I asked, “How are you feeling?”
“I’m fine. Why? Do I look crappy or something?” She huffs, slapping her hands on her hips.
“I’m asking about your finger,” I answered with a smirk.
“Oh,” she giggles. She pauses and then raises her injured finger to show me the new bandage. “Yeah, it still stings a little bit, but it’s okay. I changed the bandage again yesterday, and it’s almost completely healed.”
“That’s good. I’m riding out Steeleville today. Do you feel like going for a ride?”
“Sure.” She runs to her room and comes out a few minutes later dressed in a tiny pair of shorts and a tank top.
“Little girl, that’s not going to work.”
“It’s hot out and we’re going to Steeleville. What’s the big deal? Am I going to embarrass you or something?” I close the distance so that we’re nearly touching.
“We’re jumping on my Harley, baby.”
Her mouth drops open. “I’ve never been on a bike before.”
“Now is the time to learn.”
Her pulse rises as I pin her to the edge of the sofa. I’m not sure it’s the idea of riding or my closeness that has her heart rate spiked, so I step back. “I think it’s a little far to learn.”
“Don’t worry I’m not going to drop you.”
“What if I let go?”
“Well, that would be dumb as hell. How about I give you a ride around here and see how you feel?”
“Okay.” She bites on her bottom lip. The more this drags on the more I think twice about doing this; having her little hands wrapped around my waist seems like a very dumb idea. Still, it’s a family get together for my birthday and it feels wrong not to have her there.
“So come on little brat let’s go.” I turn her around and tap her bottom to send her on her way. Fuck, that was dumb as hell, but it felt so damn good.
“Okay, okay. You just literally told me two seconds ago.” Everly waves me off and runs back to her bedroom to change hopefully into something a little more practical.
She hurries up and puts on a pair of jeans that hugs every inch of her ass and thighs making those hips look absolutely delicious. I want to hold on to them and ride the fuck out of her until she is screaming my name. And I know it’s wrong. I’m just about to head out when my phone rings and it’s Doc calling me.
“What’s up, Uncle?”
“We need you at the hospital.”
“Yeah, I’m on my way now.”
“Nah, it’s a serious situation at Dallas General. A building went down, and we need your help.”
“I’m coming.”
I ended the call and tucked my phone in my pocket.
“Is something wrong?” Everly’s soft voice questioned with a hint of regret.
I turned back to Everly and apologized. “I’m sorry; we’re going to have to cancel this outing. It seems I need to go to the hospital. There’s an emergency. Maybe we’ll try riding that bike another day.”
“It’s okay. I wasn’t really thrilled about riding, anyway.” I can read from her expression that she’s being honest. “I hope everyone is going to be okay. Please be safe, Jules.”
“I will.” I give her a nod and then I head out, knowing that it’s for the best. I’m playing a dangerous game with her. The more I’m around her the more I’m going to give in. I keep wanting something I can’t have and it’s silly and naive. When I got to the hospital, I found out that there was a construction accident leaving two dead and twenty injured.
One of the guys who died had been a friend of mine that I went to school with. He left behind a family and my heart aches for them. It’s a fucking shame how life works out like that.
“Dr. Martinez, you did a tremendous job today,” Nurse Suarez says.
“Thank you, Ms. Suarez.”
“Call me, Linda. If you need anyone to talk to or anything, I’m here for you.” She presses her long nails on my arm, giving it a squeeze. “Wow, do you work out?”
“Yes, and I have plenty of people to talk to. Have a good night.” I walked away, feeling more than irritated by her touch. That woman has had her eyes on me for months as soon as she realized that I was graduating at the top of my class.
“Do you want me to have her written up?”
“No, Mom. I’m an adult and I don’t need you to fight my battles like I’m still a little boy.”
“No, but I am a hospital administrator, and I don’t have to tolerate that bullshit. As a mother I want to break her fingers. As a boss, I can fire her ass.”
“Thanks, but I can handle it.”
“Please tell me you’re not having a thing…”
“God no. You know that Everly is my only…”
“Well, then what are you waiting for? I want grandbabies already and you have more than enough money for it. Soon she’ll be done with her program, have a certification and there’s a spot for her at the salon. The two of you can make pretty little babies for your father and me to spoil.”
I kiss her cheek and shake my head. “I’ll see you later.”
“Don’t forget about the event.”
“I won’t.” We have a charity gala for the hospital in Dallas and I’d love to bring Everly, but I can’t because there will be too many questions. Too many doctors who know Drake and can get word to him in a heartbeat.
When I finally get home, I want to see Everly, but it’s late and all the lights are off, but a small one in the kitchen. There’s something on the island. A birthday card and small wrapped present with a baked cake with blue icing. Happy Birthday, Daddy.
I open the card and laugh. To the best dad ever. Happy birthday. I hope you get everything you want. Love your annoying little girl Everly.
“What I want is your pussy on my face,” I groan.
I open the gift and find a keychain that says the world’s best dad. I’m going to spank the fuck out of her.