Chapter 4
Hannah
Kitten
Tuesday, October 9 @1:45am
Text me when you get home.
I’m home. Well, back to my dorm.
Where are you going to school?
The University of Texas.
Go Longhorns. cow emoji>>
I’m not big on sports, but sure LOL.
You’re killing me, Angel.
Sorry, but you def need to know if you want to be friends.
But you watch OWF, right?
…
Not really. I mean, I used to as a kid, but I haven’t watched it in years.
What made you come to the show, then? Your date?
Kind of.
But I need to be honest about something.
I’m all ears, Angel.
Peter wasn’t my date. He’s my best friend’s brother.
I’m liking this already.
I tagged along with Jess because she has a crush on Matt, the other guy who was there. I was her wing-woman.
Did it work?
Well, you saw where the guys were when we left LOL. But I think they hit it off well enough, so fingers crossed.
And you’re sure the brother doesn’t like you?
Nope. Even if he did, he’s not my type.
Type, eh? Care to tell me about your type?
LOL nope.
Tease
What about you?
What about me?
Stop answering my question with a question! What’s your type?
Any girlfriends I should know about?
Only you winking emoji>>
I’m serious.
So am I.
Let’s see, no girlfriend (YET). I had a wife, but that relationship ended years ago.
I’m sorry.
I’m not. We got married for all the wrong reasons. Since then, I haven’t dated much. No one has caught my eye.
Until tonight.
As for my type, well, it’s you.
LOL you don’t have to say that to be nice.
I’m not. I love curvy girls, Angel. Always have.
Well, this might be a first.
I doubt it. You’re a stunner.
Thank you.
Don’t thank me. I’ve already undressed you in my mind at least ten different times.
LOL. Is that what you were doing after your match when you looked at me?
Guilty.
Is that too forward?
Tuesday, October 9 @ 2:30pm
Sorry about that. I fell asleep and then was late for class. My professor was pissed when I walked in after the door was closed.
As for your last question, no, it’s not too forward.
No worries, Angel. I hit the sack when you didn’t reply and now I’m at the airport, heading home.
And where is home?
Denver.
I love Denver!
Well, that’s good to know. And it’s not too far from Fort Worth.
No, it’s not.
Well, have a safe flight. I’m off to my next class.
I drop my phone into my bag. I’m probably not going to hear from him again, but at least he texted back.
I’m smiling as I leave my dorm.
Monday, October 15 @ 9:47pm
Know what today is?
What?
Our one-week anniversary.
LOL is that even a thing?
It is now. So, how are we going to celebrate?
Well, you’re the one with all the ideas.
Send me a pic of you right now. Let me see what my angel does in her free time.
pic of me in my jammies with a green face mask on>>
I’m studying for a test and doing a little skin care.
Still sexy as hell.
pic of Brooks standing backstage in his wrestling gear, grinning.>>
I’m in New York right now. It’s colder than shit backstage.
You have a great smile.
You’re making me blush, Angel.
So, what are you studying?
Finances at the moment. It’s for a hospital administration business degree.
Fuck, and you’re smart, too? I’m about to ditch this cold-ass town and come snag you up before Peter the prick does.
LOL
I’m not joking, gorgeous girl.
Well, Peter the prick isn’t a threat, as I’ve said before.
But you’re open to me snagging you up? Noted.
Jess and I make eye contact and squeal. I wasn’t kidding when I told Brooks that I was studying. I just didn’t mention that Jess was with me.
“Girl, he’s so into you!”
“He’s not. He’s just flirting.”
“Because he likes you!” She exhales, falling onto my bed. “You’re so lucky.”
I shake my head. “He’ll probably never text me again.”
And I’m definitely not going to reach out to him first.
Friday, October 19 @4:30pm
Guess what?
What?
Matt asked out Jess!
Your evil plan worked!
Well, it was her evil plan, but yeah. They’re going to a bowling alley and keep trying to get me and Peter to tag along.
Sounds like a double date, Angel.
I told them no.
Because you had a date with a man on a phone?
LOL kind of. Mostly because I have a big test tomorrow.
You’ve got this, Angel.
Thanks, Kitten.
My phone rings, making me jump. Brooks’ name flashes across the screen. Well, technically, ‘Kitten’ flashes across the screen.
“Hello?”
“Angel,” he breathes out. “It’s good to hear your voice.”
How weird would it be to say that I’ve missed his voice? Probably too weird, right?
“You, too.”
“You missing me, Angel?” I hear the smile in his voice. “Good. I’ve fucking missed you.”
I snort. “How can you miss me? You don’t even know me.”
“I know enough. So, how’s the studying going?”
“Bleh.”
He laughs. “Well, now I’m glad I called. Give yourself a little break and talk to a lonely wrestler.”
“Where are you at now?”
“Just left a gym outside of Nashville.”
“Nashville. Fun!”
“Might be fun for vacation, but not when all you see is a hotel, arena, gym, and airport.”
I say, “Yikes, I guess not. So what do you do for fun?”
“Talk to pretty blondes from Fort Worth.”
I lean back on my bed, smiling as we chat. By the time we finish, he’s late to the arena and I’m so tired that I close my book before I drool all over it. I can study tomorrow.
Monday, October 22 @10:34pm
Happy two-week anniversary.
Two weeks already? Time flies.
How’d the test go?
Meh. Could have done better. Could have done worse. On to the next one.
I’m mostly hoping my mom doesn’t check my grades before I have time to raise it. She gets carried away.
One poor grade will not ruin your life.
Oh boy…her head would spin if you said that to her face. She was a straight-A student who was at the top of everything.
I, on the other hand, am her biggest disappointment.
What makes you think that?
She’s told me, for one.
Damn. That’s harsh.
We have different ideas about how my future looks. Hers involves me getting a Master of Science degree with a focus on hospital administration
And what do you want the future to hold?
Not that, that’s for sure. I really want to do something not health care related. Maybe become a teacher. Or even something like event planning. I don’t know. I still have time to figure it out, even though my mom disagrees.
As someone older and more mature, I say do what makes you happy.
Thanks, old man.
Old man. Daddy. Whatever floats your boat.
LOL
I hold my phone, my face flushed. Daddy? Why do I like the thought of that so freaking much?
Thursday, October 25 @11:30pm
So, believe it or not, I watched OWF tonight.
You did, did ya?
I love the new wrestling gear. Blue is your color.
Want to know a secret?
Sure.
I picked it because it reminded me of your eyes.
That’s really sweet.
Pic of me grinning>>
Fuck. Look how pretty my angel is.
Thanks, Daddy. LOL.
Careful, Angel. The big bad wolf might find a way to snag you up.
What would he say if I said I hoped he did?
Monday, October 29 @11:00pm
Not assuming that you watched the show tonight, but IF you did, then I hope you saw what I did for you.
Blowing a kiss to the camera?
You watched! Good girl.
Well, if you’re going to call me that every time I watch, then I’ll do it every week.
Does my angel like to be praised?
Apparently so.
Noted.
Monday, November 5 @10:45am
Happy one-month anniversary.
Happy anniversary LOL.
You say LOL, but I’m serious.
You’re the only girl for me, Angel.
I hug my phone to my chest. Jess thinks I’m crazy because I’ve turned down a few dates recently, but Brooks’ text makes it worth it. He says I’m the only girl for him, which is fitting. Because he’s the only guy for me.
Thursday, November 15 @6:30pm
Where are you tonight?
Omaha, Nebraska. It’s cold and rainy. The roads are slicker than shit.
Oh no. Be careful!
I will. I’ve got to stay alive long enough to get that kiss.
Deal.
“Hannah! You’re not supposed to be on your phone while you’re at my table,” my stepfather snaps.
I drop my phone in my lap. “Sorry, sir. It was about a school project.”
He doesn’t answer, turning his attention to the newspaper next to him. Mom is reading her bible. It’s comical that they don’t allow phones at their table, but it’s not like they’re even speaking to each other. Definitely not speaking to me.
“Mom, did you ever decide if you’re doing anything for Thanksgiving?”
Because my dad offered to let me come to his house if she didn’t have plans. I just don’t want to spend the holiday alone. Again.
She looks up, frowning. “We’re going to be out of town. I know I told you.”
She hasn’t said crap, or I wouldn’t be asking.
But I nod. “Right. I remember now.”
I’m silent for the rest of the meal. And I sure as hell don’t check my phone, even though it buzzes a few times. By the time I get back to the dorm, I’m mentally exhausted.
But then Brooks calls, making everything better.
Monday, November 22 @11:30pm
Got any plans for Thanksgiving?
Just hanging around the dorm. Why? What’s up?
By the time I reached out to my dad, he had already made plans with a coworker. He invited me, but I didn’t want to intrude. Mostly because he’s mentioned this coworker a lot. I think he likes her. So, I stayed at the dorms.
Well, I have some time off. Thought it might be cool if we saw each other for a bit.
I’m all ears.
I can come to you, or you can come to me. Or, if we’re feeling really wild, we can meet somewhere warm.
Somewhere warm sounds really nice right now.
Hawaii?
College student here, so no. Maybe Houston?
How about this? You agree to Hawaii, and I’ll pay for it.
I shouldn’t…
Come on, Angel. My bones need a break from the cold.
Okay.
Really?
Yes.
Fuck, yeah!
Wednesday, November 24 @7:45am
I’m on my way to the airport.
See you soon, Angel.
Nine hours later, I land in Honolulu. Brooks is waiting for me at the baggage claim. I snort when I see the black ball cap on his head. He told me jokingly that he was going to come incognito, but nothing is going to make that man blend in.
“Angel,” he greets, pulling me in for a tight hug.
I hug him back, inhaling. God, he smells so good.
“Fuck,” he says as we pull apart. “I’ve missed you.”
“Same.”
He takes my hand. “Let’s get your bag and get to the hotel. I’m ready to lie on the beach with you.”
Feeling like I’m in a dream, I allow myself to stay in the moment and enjoy my time with Brooks. With each day that passes, I find myself wishing that he’d kiss me. But he doesn’t. He’s sweet. Attentive. A gentleman. And doesn’t try anything.
By the time we part at the airport four days later, I’m feeling frustrated. He hugged me before he boarded his flight, but that’s it. There was a moment when I thought he was going to kiss me, but he didn’t.
My heart pulls.
Why didn’t he kiss me?
Saturday, December 1 @3:00pm
Take me back to Hawaii crying emoji>>
I was just thinking the same fucking thing.
Four days was NOT enough with you, Angel.
Same.
So…
I have to ask you something.
No, I don’t stuff my wrestling trunks.
LOL. Not what I was going to ask.
Why didn’t you kiss me in Hawaii?
Because I want you to know that I’m real with my intentions. That this isn’t some game to me.
And what are your intentions?
I want to date you, Angel. Exclusively.
I’d like that.
Good. Now, get back to studying. I know you have a test.
Fine, Daddy…
Angel…
Sunday, December 9 @10:25am
Happy two-month anniversary.
Damn. You beat me to it.
When does your flight get in?
I should be in Texas at noon.
I can’t wait to see you.
I can’t wait to kiss you.
My heart pounds as I wait for Brooks to make his way to me. I’m holding a sign, and I know he hasn’t seen it yet. No, his gaze is trained on me. And the smile on his face takes my breath away.
But then he sees the sign, and the look turns dark. Carnal, even.
He reaches me, pulling me into his embrace.
“Daddy? You’re just trying to push all of my buttons, aren’t you, Angel?” he says into my ear.
I grin up at him. “Maybe.”
“Maybe,” he mimics with a smile. “Minx.”
Someone nearby gasps. “Holy shit. I think that’s Brooks the Body McGruff!”
Brooks grabs my hand. “Let’s get out of here, gorgeous girl.”
We make our way outside, but the fan follows.
“Brooks! Hey, Brooks! Can I grab a photo?”
Brooks’ pace picks up and I hurry to keep up.
“Brooks! Come on, man. Don’t be a dick.”
I glance over my shoulder. The guy has his phone up, as if he’s recording.
Brooks says in a low tone, “Ignore him, Angel.”
My car is in the garage, and the fan follows us all the way. Brooks opens the driver’s door for me and then rounds the car, getting into the passenger’s seat. The fan waits a beat and then walks away.
“That was intense.”
Brooks’ shoulder lifts in a shrug. “I’ve had worse.”
“Brooks, I’m sorry. You shouldn’t have to deal with that.”
He meets my gaze and exhales. “Thank you.”
“For what?”
“For saying that. Most people just think it’s part of the job and see nothing wrong with it.”
“You’re still human. You don’t deserve that.”
“Fuck, Angel. You’re really making it hard not to kiss you right now.”
I smile up at him. “I’m not stopping you, Brooks.”
He leans over the console, brushing his lips against mine.
“Let’s get out of here, Angel. We have reservations, and then I want to kiss you properly.”
I smile when he puts his hand over mine as I drive. I’m so glad he’s here.
Friday, December 14 @ 11:57am
Miss you, Angel.
I miss you, too. And your voice…
I knew serenading you would make you fall for me.
Oh, it definitely did.
The crazy thing is, I’m not joking. When Brooks told me he could sing, I wasn’t prepared for what that meant. He calls me angel, but he’s the one with a voice of an angel. Listening to him sing a love song was, god, it was perfect.
Did you make it to London?
I did. Looked at my girl’s pretty face for the entire flight.
Oh, god. What picture??
pic of us where I’m smiling up at him in our hotel room in Dallas.>>
That’s one of my fav pics.
Mine too.
Going to hop off here and go to bed. We have an early start.
Night, Brooks
Night, Angel
Saturday, December 22 @11:30am
How’s winter break going?
I’m so ready to go back to the dorms. My mom and stepdad can be overbearing.
They keep asking me who I’m texting.
Tell them you’re texting your boyfriend.
That wouldn’t go over very well. They’re super traditional.
Think they’ll like me?
Honestly? No, but that’s because they don’t like anyone, including me.
Damn, Angel. I’m sorry.
Don’t be. My dad is cool, though, and he’ll love you.
Why don’t you live with him?
When they divorced, he was working on offshore oil rigs. Mom used that to her advantage and got full custody of me. Not sure why, though. I think she would have been happier without me.
I’m sorry.
It is what it is.
“Hannah, get off your phone,” my mom hisses.
We’re in the car going to the church where Pastor Sullivan is hosting a Christmas lunch for the church staff. I really don’t want to be here, but they insisted that I come. Whether or not I want to was implied.
My stepfather glances at me in the mirror and scowls. Fuck. He’s about to launch into a speech.
“Hannah, your mother and I are disappointed in your grades from this last semester. We will not sit by and let you waste our hard-earned money. Understand?”
Their hard-earned money? Are you kidding me? I know for a fact that my dad pays for most of my tuition. I keep my mouth shut, though. I learned a long time ago that the good Pastor Sullivan will go low to win a battle, saying or doing whatever it takes to get me to shut up. Words that are meant to sting long after they’re said and slaps that leave bruises behind.
“I understand,” I answer, looking out the window as tears fill my eyes.
I wish Brooks was here.
Monday, January 7 @7:45am
I never thought I’d be this happy to be back in the dorms. I’m like the first person here, LOL.
Send me a pic of your smiling face.
pic of me laying on my bed, grinning.>>
Wish you were here.
In bed with you?
Yeah…
We can make that happen.
Really?
Fuck yeah.
My phone rings, making me laugh.
“Yes?”
“Are you free tomorrow?”
“I mean, I have class, but I can skip. What’s up?”
Brooks says, “I’m coming to see you.”
“Really?”
“I’m tired of staying away, Angel. If you want me in bed with you, then that’s what we’re going to do. If you mean it, of course.”
My heart pounds. “I mean it, Brooks. I’m ready. I want to be with you, too.”
He exhales. “Fuck. I’ll see you soon.”
“Not soon enough.”
Saturday, January 12 @3:50pm
I hate when you have to go. It gets harder each freaking time.
You took the words out of my mouth.
It was especially hard this time now that I know how sweet your pussy tastes.
OMG. Jess was reading over my shoulder, LOL.
You hadn’t told her?
Not yet. I wanted to keep it to myself for a bit. My happy little secret.
I, on the other hand, want to tell the entire fucking world.
I got the girl!
You’re such a nerd.
Your nerd, gorgeous girl.
Jess grabs her chest, right over her heart, and falls onto my bed. “You’re living the dream, friend.”
I snort. “You were literally telling me how romantic Matt is.”
“True, but Brooks is Brooks. It’s different. He’s a man.”
“Jess, Matt is a man, too.” I say the words slowly, but I’m totally joking because I know what she means.
She pokes at my side. “So you slept with him, huh?”
I nod.
“And?”
“And it was…amazing. The best I’ve ever had.”
“I knew it,” she yells. “Details! Now!”
I laugh, falling back next to her. And then I fill in my best friend on all the naughty details. I mean, what are best friends for?
Friday, February 8 @7:30am
What are you doing this weekend?
Studying, per usual. Why?
Want to spend the weekend with me?
You know I do.
Then let’s make it happen.
Saturday, March 9 @1:37pm
pic sitting next to a pool in Cancun>>
REALLY wish you were here, and not just because Jess ditched me to get drunk with every other person who’s here for spring break.
Turn around, Angel.
Spinning, I find Brooks standing there. He’s wearing black board shorts that make him look so freaking sexy.
Jumping to my feet, I rush to him, throwing myself into his arms. He catches me with ease.
“How are you here?”
“A drunk birdie texted me and said you were lonely.” He grins. “I hopped on the next flight and here I am.”
I pull him down for a kiss. “I’m so glad you’re here.”
“Oh, this is purely selfish. I get to see you in a swimsuit.” He wiggles his eyebrows, making me laugh.
“Not for long, I hope.”
“Angel,” he breathes out. “You’re killing me.”
I press into him, feeling his erection pressing against my stomach. “Take me to bed, Daddy.”
Tuesday, April 9 @ 7:45am
Happy six-month anniversary, Angel.
I can’t wait to see you.
Me, too.
Bed is ready to go.
LOL is sex all you think about?
You’re a goddess, Angel. Can’t blame me for dreaming about being inside of you all the time. Especially when you call me Daddy…
All the time?
Every second of every day. You’re all I think about.
Same.
See you soon. 3
I smile at Brooks.
“I’m glad I came.”
“Four times, to be exact.”
I laugh, slapping at his bare chest. “You know what I mean. Thanks for talking me into flying out here. I’m glad I did.”
He puts his arm around me, pulling me close. “I’m glad, too.”
We’re both silent for a moment.
It’s kind of crazy when I think about it. He’s famous, and yet he’s into me. Like, really into me. I mean, four times. Jeez! That’s never happened to me before. Well, not since Cancun. I grin at the memory.
He shifts, groaning.
“Knee still hurting?”
I try not to sound worried, but I worry about him all the time. Wrestling is a lot harder on the body than people think. I’ve seen first-hand how much pain Brooks is in.
“It’s my back this time. Tweaked it after my match with Larry.”
“Are you sad you’re dropping the heavyweight title to him?”
“Nah. It’ll just make my return that much sweeter when I come back and tell the world I’m coming for my title.”
I ask, “How long will you be in Norway?”
I hate the heavy dread that settles in my chest whenever I think about him leaving. He’s going to be starring in an action film that’s being hyped as a career changing movie. If all goes well, he might even retire from wrestling. He grimaces as he sits. I know he loves wrestling, but he can’t do it forever. His body won’t let him.
“Two months is the expected filming timeline, but it could change.” He frowns. “I wish you could come with me.”
I wish I could, too, but I can’t. My schoolwork has already been affected because I’m distracted and now that my mom and the Pastor have noticed, I can’t keep goofing off.
“I wish I could, too. Maybe I’ll get lucky, and my summer classes will end early.”
He kisses the top of my head. “Fingers crossed. Now, do you want to eat before I fuck you or let me fuck you before we eat?”
I grin. “The mouth of a poet, ladies and gentlemen.”
“I have a very talented mouth, as you know.”
“Then put it to use, Brooks.”
His eyes darken. “Anything for you, Angel.”