Chapter 5
5
Greer
A loud ringing wakes me from a deep sleep. Groaning, I roll over to reach for the phone. My eyes adjust to the light shining on my face, and suddenly I’m in panic mode. Because the bright light is the sun and the phone that’s ringing is the room’s phone, not my cell phone.
“Hello?”
“Good afternoon, Ms. Blanc. Your car is waiting to take you to the airport.”
Afternoon? Shit!
I clear my throat. “I’ll be right down.”
Luckily, I’m used to living out of my suitcase. Otherwise, this would be a nightmare. Five minutes later, I’m in the back of the car that’s going to take me to the airport. As the sedan merges into traffic, I power on my phone. The slew of messages that come through makes my head ache, but at least it gives me something to do during the drive.
Still…I can’t believe I forgot to turn my phone back on. After the whole text message thing with Grant, I had a small bottle of wine from the mini-fridge in the room. One bottle led to two. I must have dozed off at some point. It’s fine. I didn’t miss my flight, and everything else is going to go smoothly for the rest of the day.
Except, I find out my flight has been canceled when I check in with the airline.
“I’m sorry, Ms. Blanc. There’s nothing we can do.”
“I understand. Thank you for booking me on a different flight.”
I mean it, too. I’m already going to be a bit late to the baby shower as it is. I would have felt awful if I missed it completely.
“I see here that you’re a frequent flyer member. You have access to the member’s lounge, which might be more comfortable than waiting out here.”
“I’ll check it out. Thanks.”
Grabbing the handle of my carry-on luggage, I roll it toward the TSA security checkpoint. After making my way past the checkpoint, I head right to the lounge. I need a drink ASAP.
The lounge isn’t too busy, which isn’t surprising. Most of the members are business people, and Saturday isn’t a normal flying day for a business trip. Since the airport is international, the lounge is much larger than other airports. There’s a full-size bar where you can order food, a business center with private desks, but the best part of the lounge is the sleep pods. I glance at my watch. If I had time, I’d hop in one and take a nap. Sadly, I don’t think I have time for a proper nap and I sure as heck don’t want to oversleep again.
I’ve just ordered my drink when a deep voice speaks close to my ear.
“Stalking me, Blanc?”
I glance up, finding the bane of my existence.
“What are you doing here?”
“As we discussed last night, I’m going to the same baby shower you are.”
The bartender hands me my drink with a wink. I don’t miss Grant’s scowl.
I’m smiling as I take a sip.
“Getting wasted so you can handle seeing Moretti?”
I meet his gaze again. “What on earth are you talking about?”
He gestures to my drink. “The booze, Blanc. I’m talking about the booze.”
“It’s one drink. Besides, why would I need a drink to see Les? I’ve seen him a lot recently and did so sober.”
His jaw tics at the use of Alessandro’s nickname. And it takes everything in my fucking power not to pour a little extra salt in that obvious wound.
“Are you sure that’s a wise move? I heard you were devastated when he dumped you.”
“I dumped him,” I snap. “Not that it’s any of your business.”
“Right.” He drags the single word out so that it’s condescending. “We all know that relationship was doomed from the get-go.”
“Since you’re such an expert, then you also must know why Les and I agreed to date in the first place.”
“Because of the Brotherhood.”
He’s right, but I’m not going to admit it.
“We agreed to date because we had a mutual connection after fucking.” I smile up at him. “Connections like that are rare. In fact, I’d say it’s the first time I’ve ever felt like that.”
The dark look on his face turns lethal. I should shut my damn mouth, but this is too much fun.
“Little Fae, we both know I’m the only man who’s ever given you what you need.”
Heat floods to my core.
“If that’s what you need to tell yourself…”
He smiles. “I have a way we can test my theory.”
“How?”
“Let me feel between your legs.”
More heat, and I know for damn sure that I’m wet.
I snort. “In your dreams.”
“Afraid you won’t be able to pass my test?”
“Only because I’ve been chatting with Les.” The lie rolls right off my tongue.
“Still chasing after Moretti?” He scoffs. “Pathetic.”
I smile up at him. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d think you were jealous of Les.”
“Just hate to see you make a fool of yourself. Again.”
Heat creeps up my neck into my face. “Did you seek me out just to be a dick?”
“No.”
“Well, you’re doing a great job at it.”
I grab my drink and bag. There’s an empty seat across the room that has my name on it. Once I’m seated, I pull out my phone, sending Isa a text.
Isa
Hey! Running late. I hope Les isn’t driving you up the wall.
pic of Alessandro standing next to a woman, pointing at a bundle of balloons.
My dear husband has made the wedding planner cry three times, and I fear the balloons, or lack thereof, are about to make number four.
Ouch! I’m sorry.
I can’t wait to hear how your trip went.
My gaze goes across the room before I can stop myself. Grant is staring back, a smirk on his stupid face.
Nothing worth writing home about.
IBoo. I need my friends to start living more exciting lives!
I’ll try to do better.
Did I tell you I’m going to Seattle after the shower?
For work?
Yes.
When I say more exciting, I don’t mean work, Greer.
But I love my job.
Once I have this baby, I’m going to show you what real fun is!
I’m sure that will go over well with Mr. Mafia.
You have a point.
Oh no. I’ve got to go. They’re bringing in a THRONE.
What?! Are you serious?
But Isa doesn’t reply, and knowing Les, there really is a throne. Only the best for Alessandro’s Mafia bride.
I’m smiling to myself as I drop my phone into my bag. I’m glad Isa and Alessandro have each other. They’re a perfect match. My gaze goes to Grant, who’s now on his phone. Definitely nothing like Grant.
An hour later, my drink is gone, and it’s almost time to board my flight. Leaving the lounge, I make my way to the gate. As I walk, I pass a lactation pod. It takes everything in my power not to giggle because one of my favorite books has a hot sex scene in a pod just like the one in front of me.
“Do I want to know what’s making you blush like that?”
I groan. “Grant Carter, you’re like a gnat that won’t go away.”
“Are you going to tell me what’s making you blush?”
“Nope.” I snort to myself as an idea hits me. “Actually, I’ll do you one better. I’ll text you the name of a book. I’m sure you’ll figure it out.”
He pulls his phone from his pocket. “I’m waiting.”
I pull my phone out, too, and send him the book title and author’s name. His fingers move across the screen. Is he…is he looking up the book right now?
“Looks spicy.” He eyes me. “Is this how you get off these days?”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Charles said you’re not seeing anyone.”
“That he knows of.”
“We both know he’s fully aware of who and what you’re doing, Blanc.”
Ignoring him, I grab my bag and head toward my gate. He falls in step next to me.
“What are you doing?”
“Going to my gate, just as I presume you are.”
This has me stopping, because I honestly never even considered that we might be on the same flight.
“What seat number are you?”
“B-2. Why?”
I open the flight app on my phone and groan. There’s no freaking way.
He peers over my shoulder. “B-1. Looks like we’re seat mates.”
No, we’re not! Because I’m going to change my seat as soon as we get to the gate.
When we approach the waiting area, Grant takes a seat and I make a beeline to the courtesy counter. There’s a line of people waiting to speak to the airline employee, and by the time I reach her, I already know what her answer is going to be because I heard her say it to at least three other people.
“Hi. I was wondering if I can change my seat number.”
I hand her my ID and show her my e-ticket.
Her eyes widen. “You want to change your first-class seat?”
“Yes.”
“As I’m sure you heard, the flight is completely booked. In fact, we’re offering cash payments to anyone who wants to be bumped to another flight. Would you be interested in that?”
I shake my head. “No, I have to be on this flight.”
“Then I’m sorry. There’s nothing I can do to help you, ma’am.”
“Thanks for trying.”
I don’t have much time to wallow in self-pity because boarding starts for the flight. I end up ahead of Grant in line, even though it won’t matter since we’re sitting next to each other. By the time he slides into the seat next to me, I have my bag stowed and I’m watching an old episode of Scandal on my phone with my earbuds in. I can feel Grant watching me, but I ignore him. I mean, that’s how I’m going to get through this five-hour long flight.
Grant pokes my arm when the flight attendant starts her pre-flight speech.
I pull one of my earbuds out and whisper, “What? I’ve heard this a million times, as I’m sure you have.”
“You never know when we’re going to go down in the Hudson, though.” His gaze twinkles as he leans in even closer. “I get why you were blushing earlier.”
“Huh?”
“The lactation pod. Hot. Would have never thought of it. I, myself, am more of an airplane bathroom kind of guy.”
My pulse thrums in my neck. “You’re lying.”
“Wanna bet, Little Fae?”
“And what would the bet be?”
“That I can get you off in the bathroom on this plane and no one will be the wiser.”
“Bull.”
He puts his hand over his heart. “Your lack of faith wounds me.”
I should end this conversation now, but I’ve never been one to back down from a challenge.
“Fine.”
His eyebrows shoot up. “Really?”
“Yes, really. I’m only agreeing because this isn’t going to work. We’re going to get caught and then your name is going to be smeared in the press.”
“We’ll see, Little Fae. We’ll see. So, do we have a deal?”
“Yes.”
“Let’s shake on it.”
He holds out his large hand and I take it, giving it a small shake. But he doesn’t let go. Instead, he curls his hand around mine, holding it.
“What are you doing?”
“Shh. I don’t want to miss any of the speech.”
I try unsuccessfully to pull my hand free. Several times.
By the time the plane takes off, he’s still holding my hand.
And I hate that I like it.
About an hour into the flight, drinks are brought around. Grant lets go of my hand to pass me my wine when it tips, pouring into my lap.
“Oh no!” His gaze holds mine. “You should go to the bathroom to clean that up before it stains your dress.”
My cheeks heat, and it has nothing to do with the wine.
He unbuckles, standing in the aisle so I can stand. Suddenly, I’m not sure if this is a good idea. I mean, what if we do get caught?
Grant says, “Hurry now, Little Fae. Go before the wine sets in the fabric.”
His command sends me into action.
As I pass, he grabs my arm and says into my ear, “Leave the door unlocked.”
Our bodies press together, and I meet his gaze in shock. Because Grant Carter is hard.
I don’t respond, going to the bathroom at the front of the plane. Inside, I grab a handful of paper towels and dampen them. The dress is a dark blue, but the red wine is definitely noticeable.
Outside the door, I hear Grant’s deep voice and then the door swings open.
“Here, darling,” he says as he steps into the bathroom. “The lovely attendant thought this might help.”
He’s holding a washcloth and a can of club soda. But I barely notice because he closes the door, locking it behind him. He tosses the items onto the counter, looking down at me.
“What did you say to?—”
He moves close, crowding me. I mean, it’s already crowded in here, but he takes it to a new level of closeness.
“I’m the one in charge, Little Fae. Understand?”
I nod, and he smiles.
“Good. Now, put your foot on the toilet. Oh, and do remember to be quiet.”
My heart is pounding, but I do as he says.
“Wrap your arms around my neck.”
I do, loving and hating how close it brings us. He holds my gaze as he lifts my skirt, sliding his hand up my thigh to my panties. My lips part in a soft gasp as he rubs his fingers against my panties.
“Always so wet for me, Little Fae. Tell me, are you on birth control?”
I nod.
“Good,” he says as he nips my earlobe.
Goosebumps lift on my skin. He pulls back, undoing his pants. When his cock springs forward, I bite back a moan. God, I’d forgotten how big he is.
One hand bunches my skirt, holding it against my hip, while his other hand centers his cock at my opening. Ever so slowly, he enters me. I exhale, pressing my forehead against his chest.
“That’s it, Little Fae. Let me know how good my cock feels in your sweet pussy,” he whispers into my ear.
His voice is deeper, revealing how affected he is.
I’m about to point it out when he pulls back, thrusting into me. Oh, god. This feels so, so good. Our lips find each other, and we kiss as he rocks into me again.
“Fuck,” he says against my mouth. “Your body feels like home, Little Fae.”
I agree, but don’t say anything. Instead, I deepen the kiss, kissing him like my life depends on it.
“Ready to come?”
I whimper and nod. He gives me a wicked grin and rubs my clit in small circles that have me rushing toward an orgasm.
He nips my earlobe again and says, “You’re going to come all over my cock right now, and then I’m going to fill you. Understand?”
“Yes… sir .”
His nostrils flare, but he doesn’t say anything. He doesn’t have to when his body does all the talking. Sweat glistens on his brows and along his neck. Leaning forward, I lick the side of his neck, earning a deep groan from him.
“Next time we’re going to do this in a bed where we can be skin to skin.”
There won’t be a next time, but I don’t voice my thought.
He stills, looking down at me. “I know what you’re thinking, and you’re wrong. This,” he thrusts, making me grunt. “ Is going to happen again. Several times, in fact. Want to know how I know?”
“How?”
“Because I’ll never get enough of you, Greer. Not in this lifetime.”
The truth in his words sets me over, and my orgasm washes over me. He captures my moans by kissing me all while thrusting in and out. When he comes undone, I know I’m in trouble. Because it’s a sight I can get used to.
“Fuck,” he grunts into my ear. A moment later, he catches his breath and says, “Now, here’s what we’re going to do. You’re going to put your panties back in place and walk out first. I’ll follow. Understand?”
“I need to…clean up.”
“No.” He looks down at me. “I want you to sit out there, full of my cum.”
“Grant—”
“Do you want to test me, Little Fae?”
I shake my head and say, “But if I get a UTI, you’re paying for my medical bills.”
“Deal.”
He pulls out of me, letting my panties fall into place. Immediately, I feel our come dripping out of me.
“Be a good girl and walk out first.”
“Maybe you should put your cock away before I open the door.”
He gives me a satisfied smile and does as I suggest.
I watch the entire time.
“There. Now, go.”
Glancing in the mirror, I bite back a groan. I look thoroughly fucked. My lips are swollen, my make-up is slightly smeared, and my skin is glowing. Grant meets my gaze in the mirror.
“Go, Greer.”
Shifting past him, I leave the bathroom first. He follows, stopping to say something to the flight attendant. The only word I catch is ‘girlfriend’. Keeping my head high, I slip into my seat, buckling my seat belt. No one even glanced our way. In fact, the flight attendant looks concerned as Grant tells an animated story. A sliver of jealousy stabs through me and I shove the thought away.
Who cares who Grant speaks to? Certainly not me.