Chapter 7
Hayden collapsed to the side, satiated, and spent and pulled Whitney into him. She intertwined her legs with his and they lay there quietly for a moment, catching their breaths, a sheen of sweat covering their naked bodies. Whitney shivered, and Hayden pulled her in tighter. “Are you cold, gorgeous?” She nodded, giving in to another shiver. “Okay, let’s get under the covers and I’ll warm you up.”
Rising from the bed, he pulled back the covers, and she scrambled underneath while he disposed of the condom and joined her under the comforter. “Better?” he asked, nestling her into him, his strong arms around her.
“Yes,” she sighed, snuggling into him deeper, her body wrapped around his.
They lay there in silence for a long time and Hayden’s mind drifted off into a state of bliss as he reflected on the incredible woman in his arms. Whitney was so much more than he thought she was when they first met. Obviously, she was this stunning, kick ass woman who had the strength to hold her own, but she was also sweet, vulnerable, and guarded. A lot more complex than he had thought. He understood how she may be difficult for some men to understand, but to him, all those qualities she possessed added to her beauty. He loved her layers, and he wanted to continue to peel them back. Love? Was he falling for Whitney? Never had that word crept into any other relationship he had. And now it was the first word he thought of when he thought of her.
“What are you thinking?” she asked, lacing her fingers with his as they rested over his chest.
“I was just thinking about how grateful I am,” he answered truthfully. “How grateful I am to be here with you. To be able to hold you and how grateful I am that you have chosen to trust me.”
She lifted her head, resting her chin on his chest as she reached up to run her fingers through his hair. Meeting his gaze, her lips curved into an affectionate smile.
“Now, knowing more, I know that trust is not easy for you,” he continued. “And the fact that you have broken down your walls for me.” his voice cracked with unexpected emotion as tears pricked his eyes. “It feels good.”
Whitney climbed on top of him, straddling his hips, and ran her hands through his hair. She smoothed her fingertips over his eyebrows and down his face, caressing his cheek affectionately. Running her fingers over his jaw to his lips, she leaned down and tenderly brushed her lips over his. The kiss was so light but electric; it made his heart jolt. Her eyes were dark and shiny, his emotion drawing out her own. Love shone in their depths and even if her head was not ready to acknowledge it yet, it was there, and the feeling was mutual.
“I feel safe with you,” she confessed as she kissed him again.
Pulling the covers over them both, he wrapped his powerful arms around her and pulled her into his chest, hugging her and stroking her back lovingly. Knowing what he now knew about Whitney, those words were her I love you.
* * *
Whitney woke the next morning,Hayden spooning her from behind. His taut, naked body enveloping her in tantalizing warmth, and she sighed contentedly. Last night had been, in one word, magical. Their bodies fitting together so seamlessly. They had discovered it was not just sex that drew them together, their connection beyond the physical. There was something intangible between them now, something raw and emotional. Whitney was done fighting their palpable chemistry.
Stirring behind her, Hayden’s large hand splayed on her stomach, the heat of it making her core instinctively pulse.
“Good morning,” he whispered in her ear. His breath tickling the sensitive skin on her neck. “Did you sleep well?”
“I did,” she responded, wiggling her backside into his groin. She could feel him harden under her movements and she giggled. “Someone else is awake.”
Hayden laughed groggily. “Little Hayden is always awake when you’re around, gorgeous.”
“Little Hayden?” she questioned with another giggle. “I would refer to him as Big Hayden.”
“Oh, really?” he asked, flipping her over and pinning her hands over her head. She squirmed with laughter, then moaned as he ground himself on her. “How about I show you more of what Big Hayden can do?” he asked, his mouth curving into a sexy grin.
“Yes, please.” she teased back, grinding her hips into his.
He climbed off the bed and grabbed his wallet, pulling out a condom. Sheathing himself, he crawled across the bed, mimicking a jungle cat, growling and snarling as he prowled towards her. She laughed in response, and he gave her a playful grin.
“What shall we do?” he asked, putting his hand to his chin in thought as he sat back on his heels. “How about you show me your yoga skills and flip over putting that perfect ass in the air for me?”
“You’re bossy.” she remarked as she flipped onto her stomach and curled her knees underneath her body.
“You like it,” he teased, smoothing his hand over her back, tracing her spine, his touch leaving goosebumps in its wake. Hayden smoothed his hands over her behind and squeezed, then slipped his fingers between her legs, massaging between her folds. She moaned as he circled the bundle of nerves at her centre and dipped a finger into her molten heat, making her cry out with approval.
“You’re so wet for me,” he said, his voice low and husky as he gripped her hips and sank into her with one long, deep slide. She gasped in pleasure as he pulled himself all the way out and plunged back in even harder.
“Just like that,” she cried out as he drove into her, their feral grunts and moans escaping with every punishing thrust. Slowing down his strokes to draw out their pleasure, his sensual movements were sweet torture, as Whitney got lost in each delicious sensation he was eliciting.
“Whitney, I hope you’re close because I don’t think I can hold back much longer,” he panted out as he sank deep with each grind and press.
She clenched, her inner walls gripping him hard in response, and he groaned as he started to lose control. Pulling her up flush with his body, her back to his front and reached between her legs, he strummed her swollen centre, causing her to follow him. White-hot pleasure ripped through her body and her head fell back on his shoulder as he clung to her, both trembling with their release. Bodies still connected, and their chests heaving in unison, Whitney breathed out.
“Hayden, that was…”
“Incredible.” Hayden panted as he leaned down and planted kisses along her neck.
Whitney melted into him, feeling connected mind, body, and soul as the last of her walls crumbled to the ground.
* * *
The storm having died downand the roads already safer with the snow ploughs out, Hayden and Whitney checked out of their room and made the three-block trek down the snowy sidewalks back to the arena parking lot. Climbing into his truck, he turned to her. “Are you hungry?”
“Famished.” Whitney replied with a glint of innuendo in her eyes.
He chuckled, then winked at her. “Let’s get some breakfast.”
Not far from the arena, Hayden turned off the main street into an industrial area and pulled into a parking lot in front of a building that resembled an old warehouse.
“What is this place?” Whitney asked, as she got out of the truck and took in the old brick structure, glancing around at the bustle of people coming in and out of the building.
“This is The Forks. It’s where the Red River and Assiniboine River meet, and it’s been turned into a tourist place with shops and lots of food vendors. They also have lots of activities you can do here all year long.”
Whitney’s eyes widened with excitement as Hayden took her hand and led her into the building. Walking through the entrance, it opened into a two-story open space with high beamed ceilings and a glass roof letting in natural light. The smell of foreign spices tickled her senses as they passed rows of food vendors peddling their delicious wares amongst the century old brick alcoves. The bright bold colors of the shop awnings brought a sense of whimsy to the space, enticing you to explore and see what treasures you could find in the cute shops and kiosks. Hayden led her down a hall leading into what looked like a large food court, flagged with every type of food vendor your heart desired.
“My favorite place is just over here, around this corner.” he gestured, leading her into yet another hallway and into a third open area. There was a vendor whose sign read “All Day Breakfast and Brunch.”
“The food here is the best,” Hayden explained as they took their place in line.
Whitney’s eyes roamed the simple menu and her stomach growled, making them both laugh. “I’ll have whatever you’re having.” she answered. “Surprise me!”
“Okay, that’s easy enough.” He replied as their turn came up. “Two breakfast specials, an extra order of hash browns and sausage please, and two black coffees.”
As he pulled out his wallet to pay for their breakfasts, Hayden asked Whitney to find them a seat around the corner. Finding an open area with about a half dozen tables that faced the windows overlooking the river, she found a free table and took a seat and admired the view outside. The glistening snow covered everything in a soft blanket of white, and the trees that lined the walkway were sparkling with hoarfrost in the bright morning sunshine. Glancing around the dining space, she marveled at the high ceilings with white fairy lights strung up by the beams, giving it a magical feel against the rustic brick walls. This place is gorgeous.
“I hope you’re hungry!” Hayden exclaimed as he rounded the corner, holding a tray full of food. The smell of sausage, bacon, eggs, fried potatoes, and hot buttered toast filling her senses.
“Wow, this all looks amazing.” She said, taking in the spread laid before them.
“I think we worked up an appetite.” he winked, flashing her a coquettish grin.
Whitney smiled back, popping a buttery fried potato into her mouth, and letting out a moan of approval. “Oh my, these are crazy good!”
Hayden nodded in agreement and with questioning eyes, he asked. “Speaking of crazy good, how are you feeling about last night?”
“And this morning.” she added, giving him a playful wink between bites.
Hayden chuckled and reached out for her hand, meeting her gaze with seriousness. “Are you okay with this?” he asked, pointing between them. “Am I wrong in thinking we have started something amazing here?”
She offered him a soft smile and squeezed his hand. “We have, Hayden.”
Hayden let out a long breath, obviously relieved by her answer, then continued. “So, where do we go from here?” he asked, his eyes intense and hopeful.
“Are you asking me if we’re dating now?” she asked, meeting his insistent gaze, and glancing away as if contemplating his question. She smiled, returned her gaze to his, and replied. “Yes.”
“So, is it safe to assume you’re now my girlfriend?” Hayden continued, seeking clarification.
She cocked her head to the side again and searched his inquiring eyes. Her lips curved into a confirming smile. “Yes, Hayden.”
Suddenly Hayden jumped up from his chair, letting out an echoing whoop and pumping his fist into the air. Everyone at their respective tables looked at them, a mix of confusion and amusement on their faces. Whitney laughed, her face reddening, and shook her head at his very public show. Taking her hand and bringing her to her feet, he swooped her up into a huge hug, lifting her off the ground. A security guard came around the corner, scrutinizing them both.
“Is everything okay over here?” the security guard asked, his hand poised on his radio.
“This beautiful woman just agreed to be my girlfriend!” Hayden bellowed, eliciting snickers and few claps from the other patrons.
The security guard smiled, shook his head, and let out a little chuckle. “As you were, then,” he said, gesturing to them both.
Whitney laughed and met Hayden’s twinkling eyes. His sweet and unexpected reaction made her heart burst with happiness. Hayden had proven to her he was trustworthy and would never intentionally hurt her. He was like no other man she had ever met, and after everything she had been through in the past, she needed some goodness in her life. Hayden represented a second chance, and she deserved to see where this relationship would take them.
* * *
A few days later,Ben and Ever returned from their honeymoon. Hayden and Whitney, eager to see them and share their news, made plans to meet them at the Eazy for lunch.
Hayden noticed Ben’s truck was already in the lot and let out a long exhale.
“Are you nervous, Hayden?” Whitney asked, putting her hand on his thigh.
“A little,” he admitted, parking next to Ben’s truck. “Not sure why, though. I mean, this is my brother and Ever is one of your closest friends. It’s just, Ben has always been critical of my dating life, and I just want them to approve of us.”
Whitney leaned over and kissed him softly in reassurance. “It’ll be fine. Trust me.”
Getting out of his truck, Hayden took her hand, and they entered the building together. Immediately Ever spotted them, waving from a table in the middle of the café. Both Ever and Ben got up and hugged them. Whitney beamed, overjoyed to see her friend, who looked tanned and glowing from her tropical vacation. Hayden pulled out Whitney’s chair, as she sat down across from Ever and Hayden across from Ben.
“You two look amazing! How was Hawaii?” Hayden asked.
Ever looked at Ben, who smiled lovingly at her. “It was heavenly,” she shared. “The weather, the water, the people, the food! Oh my goodness the food. I could live on pineapple the rest of my life and die happy.”
Ben laughed his big, booming laugh. “It was really beautiful,” he added simply in his deep baritone.
“Well, I for one, can’t wait to see the pictures.” Whitney added, taking Hayden’s hand under the table, sensing his continued apprehension.
They all smiled from one to the other as an atypical awkwardness fell over their group. Whitney surveyed Ever, her eyes dancing and over to Ben, with a subtle smile tugging at his lips.
“I feel like you two have something to tell us,” Whitney observed, cocking her head to the side.
Ever looked at Ben and he nodded, as if giving her the okay to share. “I’m pregnant.” Ever replied, her eyes exuding pure joy and happiness.
Whitney’s eyes widened and Hayden reached over, slapping his brother on his shoulder. “You waste no time, Brother!” Hayden teased.
Ben flashed Hayden his signature scowl, which softened into a warm smile as he took in Ever’s unbridled excitement.
“Honestly, I had a suspicion at the wedding but had been feeling good. No serious morning sickness. So, when we got to the island, I bought a test, and well, it came back positive.”
Whitney rose from her seat, Ever following suit, and the women hugged. “I’m so incredibly happy for you both.”
“I have an appointment in two weeks, along with an ultrasound to make sure things are okay.” Ever continued.
“That is so exciting!” Whitney replied, delight in her tone as she and Ever returned to their seats. “So, we have a little something to share with you two as well.” Whitney started as she laced her fingers with Hayden’s under the table.
“Are you pregnant too?” Ever asked, a teasing smile on her lips.
Whitney gave her friend a roll of her eyes and she glanced back at Hayden who was now smiling wide, his grin ear to ear. I’m going to have to revisit that later.
“No.” she laughed as she held up their intertwined hands. “But we are a couple.”
Ever looked from Hayden to Whitney and back to Hayden, an approving smile covering her face. Ben leaned back in his chair with amusement and folded his arms over his broad chest.
“You two are…” Ever trailed off.
“We are dating.” Hayden finished her sentence.
Ever squealed excitedly, causing a table full of local farmers to turn their heads at the sound. “Sorry.” she apologized as she turned her attention back to Whitney and Hayden.
“So, when did this happen?” Ben asked, showing genuine interest, but still looking stoic at their news.
“Well, officially this past weekend.” Hayden continued. “I know it”s not as big as having a baby, but we’re happy.”
Ever shook her head. “It’s very good news, Hayden. Ben and I are super happy for you, aren’t we, Ben?” she commented, giving Ben a chiding glare to acknowledge their news.
“Yes! Very good.” Ben added, then smiled back at Ever for her approval.
“And Whitney, you’re officially moving here?” Ever continued. “I know this is going to be a big change for you.”
“It is.” Whitney agreed. “But I think it’ll be a good one,” she added as she snuggled closer to Hayden, and he put his arm around her. “Hayden has already made me feel very at home here. I’ve had the opportunity to meet with a few of the local artists I will be working with, and since my work can be done remotely, I’m not exactly sure what I’ll be doing yet, but I may open my own agency here in Manitoba.”
Ever’s eyes widened. “That would be amazing!”
“I think so too.” Whitney agreed.
“Wow, I feel like so much has happened in the past two weeks since we’ve been away!” Ever commented, sitting back in her seat. “I’m so happy you’re here Whitney and this…” she gestured between Hayden and Whitney, “is simply wonderful!”