Chapter 13
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
NATE
Walking into my bedroom, I drop my wedding band on my nightstand before sighing. Not long and all will be revealed. Moving towards the stairs, I glance at her closed door and pause for a moment. I know she said that she was okay, but something felt off. We had a good day, a really good day. Inhaling heavily, I ignore the feeling to want to go and check on her again and walk down the stairs. I pull my phone from my pocket and open door-dash, ordering her a few different meals then leaving cash on the side for a tip. With one last glance up the stairs, I walk out the door and close it behind me with an uneasiness settling inside my chest.
I already couldn't wait to be home.
But this night was for Kaleb. He was getting married this weekend, last fling before the ring and all that... but it's not a fling. It's whiskey and food, a couple of card games.
We're old.
Going out isn't the done thing anymore, well, certainly not for us.
We like being home.
We like each other’s company and that's about it.
Xavier and Killian will be there, Dex too.
Seem to have gained another three guys to our group, felt a little bit weird about it at first if I am being honest, but I kind of like them, ended up getting used to them being around.
Walking towards the corner of the block, I hold my hand out for the approaching taxi. He pulls in and I give him Kaleb's address as I climb into the back.
Feel a bit bad that I haven't introduced James to the WAGS; she could have hung out with Connie and co tonight, but I didn't want to throw her in the deep end; which is kind of ironic really seeing as I'm taking her to the wedding as not only my guest, but my wife... so it doesn't really matter I suppose. Either way, I am throwing her in, but at least with the wedding, I'll be her life float, if I threw her in tonight, she would be alone. The girls are not bitchy at all, but Connie's hen do is definitely not the one. Kind of surprised that James wasn't asked to watch the boys, but Royal offered as she was looking after Twyla.
We crawl through the midtown traffic and I slip my phone from my jacket, hovering my thumb over her name.
Was desperate to text her.
Not enough to do it though.
Closing down the messages, I open the camera app and log into her bedroom. She isn't there. Controlling the camera, I see the light on in her bathroom and the door open.
I wait with bated breath for her to reappear, just so I know she is okay.
My eyes flick to the driver, his eyes are ahead, and I cast mine back down to my phone screen and my heart jolts in my chest when I see her appear in the doorway, towel wrapped around her frame. Skin all wet, hair pulled over one shoulder and damp. Her cheeks are slightly red, given them a just bitten look and I shuffle in the seat. Eyes are up again, catching the driver’s gaze I give a nod before my eyes are back on my phone. I am grateful for my privacy screen, not that he could see anything anyway, but, still.
I'm a bit of a creep.
Watching with hungry eyes, she sits on the edge of the bed, fingers on her phone before her face tilts up, looking at the door before their back on her phone.
Her lips move but I miss what she says as my phone is turned down, kind of wish it wasn't but I don't want the driver to know what I am watching.
Her fingers peel away the towel and she lays on top of it, legs pressed together as her pretty eyes dart to the drawer then back to her phone. She begins scrolling but she writhes on the towel, legs pressing together to try and take away the want that beats between her thighs. Frustration crosses her pretty face as her spare hand trails between her rounded tits, skimming past her sternum and dipping between her legs; her phone falling from the fingertips of her other hand.
She works herself up, eyes closed as she slips a finger inside her bare, wet pussy and my lips twist, my tongue coated in saliva and the thought of diving between her legs and eating her out until she is a trembling mess is consuming.
Dragging her fingers through her lips, she focuses back on her clit, rubbing in lazy circles.
My cock swells in my pants, throbbing with the need of release but I know I'll have to ignore it. Blood thumps in my ears but all I can do is focus on her, watching as she finger fucks herself and I am desperate to be in the room, to be the one to work her body the way she is.
I am so fucking desperate.
Two fingers sink deep inside her cunt and I adjust myself discreetly, shuffling in my seat. My breaths labor before the doorbell chimes on my phone. Blood thrashes in my ears as I exit the screen and answer the notification.
“Hey, Door?—”
“Leave it on the porch,” my voice is urgent.
“But—”
“Leave it on the fucking porch,” and that gets me a glare from the driver as he filters through the traffic. I give him a sarcastic smile and click off the doorbell app and back to her.
My wife .
Spread on her bed, fingers in places I am desperate to have mine, my tongue and my cock.
I am jealous.
So fucking envious.
I watch as her back arches from the bed, fingers curled and clutching the bedsheets as if trying to hold herself down, her fingers plunging in and out of her hot pussy with ease as she rides through her orgasm.
Her eyes finally lift, and they lock on the corner of the room, the beautiful windows of her soul staring straight at me.
I shut my phone off just as the taxi rolls to a halt and I rub my palms over my pant covered thighs.
All my nerve endings are sensitized and I want nothing more than to slip inside the restroom at Kaleb's and jerk off into my hand but I know I can't.
Leaning forward, I toss the notes forward and open the door, slipping my phone into my front pocket, my spare hand folding deep into the other one and trying not to let my fingertips brush against the sensitive tip of my cock because I swear I'll cum in two seconds if that was the case. Clearing my throat, I nod at the doorman as he welcomes me to the building. I move forward, legs gliding across the tiled floor and towards the private elevator that serves Connie and Kaleb's apartment. Twisting my wrist to look at the time, my lips twist into a small smile. I am bang on time. Watch Titus be late.
Always is.
Pressing the button, I wait for a moment or two whilst the lift travels down. I inhale deeply as I step inside the lift and ride the way up in silence knowing as soon as I step out into that penthouse, all quietness will be gone.
Three.
Two.
One.
The doors ping open and I am greeted by Kaleb. Dressed in a white crisp collared shirt and black suit pants with shiny brogues.
He looks smart.
Pretty handsome too.
“Nate,” a wide grin spreads across his face as he claps his hand into mine and welcomes me with a firm shake.
“Hey,” I give a soft smile as he places his arm around my shoulder and walks me towards the living area where the bar is situated in the corner of the room.
The sound of high heels clicking across the tiles pulls my attention towards the stairs and I smile when I see Connie strolling towards me.
Short white dress that clings to her curves. It's strapless, her chest heaving from the tight material. Hair poker straight, framing her face and bright red lips with cat winged liner. “Well, don't you look beautiful,” I beam as I wrap my arm around her back, pulling her closer to me as I place a kiss on her cheek.
“Thanks, Nate,” she blushes and Kaleb's arm snakes around his fiancée’s back and she twists her face to look at him. Eyes adoring and full of promise of their happily ever after.
“Nate's right, you look stunning,” he buries his nose into the top of her hair, lips pressing against her head.
“Thank you, baby,” her voice is soft, her hand pressed against his chest as she presses onto her tiptoes and gives him a kiss on the lips.
“Be safe okay, let me know when you get to the club,” and she nods, slipping out of his grasp as the elevator doors ping open and Reese and Arizona step into the room, both looking equally as hot as Connie.
Would never say that out loud.
Killian and Keaton follow, eyes darting around the room. Kaleb smiles as he greets his brother and then Killian.
“Ready for your last night of freedom?” Keaton rubs Kaleb's shoulder before patting him on the chest.
“Ha,” Connie smirks, “he has never been free,” she throws him a wink and I watch as Killian's gaze hardens on his daughter. “Dad... please,” she rolls her eyes then looks at Reese, her dad’s wife.
“Killian...” his wife pauses, “they're getting married. Get used to it.”
“I don't want to,” he grunts, moving to be close to his wife, scooping his arm around her waist as he pulls her close, whispering something in her ear which causes her to blush and my mind drifts to James.
“Don't want to what?” we all turn around to see Titus and Amora walking in, hand in hand. Arizona kisses her dad on the cheek and then greets his wife, Amora, before she seeks out her husband, Keaton.
“I don't want to accept that my little girl is getting married...” he trails off, eyes connecting with Titus' and I roll my lips. I know what’s coming.
“Yeah, sucks doesn't it.” Titus' tone is cool, a slight hardness coats his voice.
Killian twists his lips.
“Even worse when your friend is a witness at your daughter’s wedding.”
“Look—” Killian holds his hand up but Connie makes sure the conversation ends there as she claps her hands loudly, quietening the room.
“Dad, deal with it, I am getting married.”
Keaton chuckles and I elbow him in the ribs.
“But, you know...” her eyes glide around the room and land on each and every single one of us. I mean, they loiter on me, but everyone else gets a solid death stare.
She points at Titus.
“You married your client.”
He rolls his eyes.
Her finger moves to Killian.
“You married my best friend...” she pauses, “drunk,” another pause, “in Vegas.”
Killian sighs. Then her finger lands on Keaton and I chuckle, dropping my head to glance down at my ringless left finger.
“You married your best friend’s daughter...” she rolls her eyes, “aaaaaand got drunk in Vegas and married her so yeah...” she links her fingers, “can't really judge me.” She gives an angelic smile before she sways her hips over to Kaleb and hooks her arm around his neck and gives him a kiss. “I'll see you tonight,” she smiles against his lips and gives him another.
“Have the best time darling,” his voice rasps against her lips and I hear a growl from Killian before he turns his back on his daughter’s public display of affection and stands at the bar. Reese follows behind him and tucks herself into him, their voices hushed.
Her smile widens before Connie turns and links her fingers through Arizona's, Amora standing next to her as they wait. Reese finally moves towards the group of girls before they all turn and say bye. We all watch as they disappear into the elevator, Connie throwing a wink at Kaleb before blowing him a kiss just as the elevator door closes.
Silence echoes around the penthouse for just a moment, all of our eyes bouncing between each other and Keaton smirks, a scoff floating between us.
“Why are you smirking?” Kaleb asks.
“Just Connie made me laugh.”
“Why?”
“Cos she speaks the truth.”
“One of the many things I love about her.”
“She is very strong willed.”
“No idea where she gets that from...” Kaleb pipes up and fights the laugh that is threatening.
“Anyway,” I clap my hands together and move towards the bar, the guys following.
“Drinks?” Titus asks as he pulls the lid from the whiskey decanter.
“Yes.” We all say in unison as Titus fills our crystal glasses over ice.
“I've got the card table set up in the dining room, we can order in...”
“Sounds perfect,” I chime. I am starving. But not for food unfortunately. Can't stop thinking about James' pussy. Need it. If only for one night. But would once be enough? “Where are the girls going?” I ask, eyes finding Titus as he checks his phone.
“Dinner then onto some luxury club.”
I smirk, I knew the club well.
A little too well.
“Then be drinks at somewhere, Oscar Wilde’s I think.”
“Sounds like they'll have a nice time.”
“Hope so,” Kaleb sighs, but it's not an unhappy one. “She deserves everything and more.”
Killian pats his son-in-law on the back, and Kaleb gives him a smile.
“Are you all set for the weekend?” Titus asks and Kaleb nods as he takes a mouthful of his whiskey and welcomes the warmth of the amber liquid burning his throat.
“Think so, Connie has planned it all. I am just desperate to see her in her wedding gown,” his eyes glisten as he thinks about his wife-to-be.
I slip my phone out and hover my finger over her name.
Do I need to text her?
No .
Do I want to text her?
Yes .
Me
Just checking in, you okay? Nate
“Who you smiling at?” Keaton pulls my attention and my head snaps up, my finger pushing my glasses up my nose and my brows furrowed.
“None of your concern,” I slip my phone back in my pocket and curl my fingers around my crystal tumbler, bringing it to my lips before taking a mouthful.
“Is it a girl?” Titus leans in and asks quietly and I glare at him.
“Fuck off,” I grunt and shake my head softly from side to side, then I hear the ping.
“Oooo you have a text,” Keaton is being his usual wind up self with his condescending tone.
“Leave him man,” Titus grunts and Kaleb gives his friend a soft elbow to the ribs and he leans forward and lets out a soft cough as a laugh bubbles out of him.
They slip into conversation and when the focus is off me, I take my phone out and scan the message.
James
I'm okay, just chilling in my room. Thanks for the food, I was famished. Hope your night is going okay, hope you're having fun. James x
A small smile tugs at my lips and as much as I want to reply, I don't. Not yet anyway. Maybe in a bit.
Titus slips beside me.
“How are you doing?” he asks me, taking a mouthful of his drink and I hum in response.
“Not too bad, busy. You?” I turn my gaze towards him and study my best friend. He looks a little more tired, a few more lines appearing.
“Tired,” he scoffs a laugh, head rolling around to look at me.
“With?”
I mean, I think I knew the answer but didn't want to assume.
“Twyla has hit a sleep regression, think me and Amora were grateful for Royal's offer to have her,” he scoffs a laugh and drums his index finger on the side of his glass.
“Ah man,” that’s the best I can come up with. I have no idea what broken sleep is. I sleep solid every night.
“Wouldn't change it for the world though, love being a dad.”
I genuinely smile.
“You're an amazing dad. Girls are lucky to have you,” I squeeze his shoulder. I mean every word. Titus' wife left when Arizona was a baby. Just up and left. I drove myself insane trying to find her, but any lead I found ended as abruptly as it started. It was as if she vanished. Poof. Gone. Like a ghost. I felt like I failed him and Ari. I wanted to find her for their sake. But she never wanted to be found. She had made her choice, and her choice wasn’t them and maybe that's what gutted me the most. She chose to leave them.
He crumbled, of course he did, but we were all there to pick him up. We took turns in helping with Arizona where we could, helped keep him on his feet until he didn't need us anymore.
We were friends.
We chose each other.
But we were so much more than that. We were family.
I know they say blood runs thicker than water, but not for us.
They were my blood.
They were my family.
The evening rolled into the card game, cigars were smoked and food was had. We laughed and joked about old times and it felt good. We had no issues with work, things were flowing and everything seemed to have settled down.
I had my own shit to deal with, but I didn't need to bring the guys in on it at the moment. I had a handle on it.
The sound of a chair scraping across the floor pulls me from my thoughts as Kaleb stands and takes long strides across to the bar, grabbing a fresh decanter of whiskey, a boyish grin on his face as he fills our glasses.
“No Xavier tonight?” I grumble to Titus and he shakes his head.
“Royal chained him up by his balls. She said he had to help with the babies.”
Keaton chuckles.
“Especially with Seb and Smith,” he smirks, swirling the amber liquid before bringing the rim of his glass to his lips and swallowing a mouthful.
“Poor bastard,” Titus scoffs and holds his glass into the middle of the table.
“To Kaleb and Connie,” he smiles, “welcome to the married club,” he winks, and we all push our glasses forward, clinking them.
“To Kaleb and Connie,” everyone chimes and then their eyes lock on me.
“Just you now buddy, don't worry, we will find you someone.”
I just nod, going along with it as usual.
Little do they know that I am already married.
Technically Kaleb is the last one of us to marry.
But we don't need to worry about that now.
The rest of the evening was just as enjoyable, more drinks, more cigars until Connie's entourage stumbled through the door all glassy eyed and beaming smiles as they all sought out their partners.
“They're home,” Keaton smirks as he stands and greets Arizona, wrapping his arm around her back and kissing her softly on the lips which ends up with her leaning into him and wrapping her arms around his neck as her kiss becomes more aggressive. “Let's get you home before your dad floors me,” he grins, side eyeing a raging Titus and I chuckle, but it's only to mask the jealousy that licks at my skin of not having James here.
Nothing is going to happen between us.
It's in the contract.
Purely platonic.
Purely business.
Connie waltzes over to Kaleb, a wide tooth bearing grin spread across her lips as she leans into him.
“That's it,” Killian pushes from his seat and drags Reese away before she even gets close to him. “I'm making the most of us having a sitter,” he growls low, but loud enough for us all to hear as he throws her over his shoulder and Connie starts to gag.
“Not what I need to hear dad,” her hands are now over her ears, and I take a moment to just realise how fucked up this actually is.
Connie is with the guy that was sent to watch over her.
Reese is with Killian, her best friend’s dad.
Arizona is with her dad's best friend.
And Amora is with her bodyguard.
They all link in some weird and fucked up way.
“I'm out,” I finally stand and salute the guys off my temple. Kaleb strolls towards me, Connie clinging onto him as he shakes my hand.
“I'll see you Saturday, what time are you heading down?”
“Be on the road for nine,” I murmur.
“Perfect, dinner is for seven. Have you made your mind up on a plus one?”
“Nope, not yet,” my lips tug at one corner as I shake his hand and lean across to give Connie a kiss on the cheek.
I say bye to Titus and my lips press against Amora's cheek, and I do the same with Keaton and Ari.
Looking over my shoulder I see Killian still waiting for the lift, Reese still launched over his shoulder.
I roll my eyes as I stride towards them, throwing Reese a wink before I lean across and press the call button.
“Helps if you actually press the button...” I trail off and chuckle, Killian furrows his brows, looks in confusion at the button then to me.
“Huh.” His lips turn down before he begins to laugh.
“Think the old man has had too much to drink, he can't handle it in his old age.”
“Don't start, brat,” he drops his shoulder, making her move before slapping her ass with his hand.
“Fuck my life,” I whisper under my breath, hands in front of me, fingers laced together as I drop my head back and stare at the ceiling.
“What's up big Nate?” Keaton's voice floats over me.
“I've made him feel uncomfortable,” Killian giggles like a child.
“Not at all,” I let my head fall forward as I push my glasses up my nose. “Just ready to get home.”
The lift doors ping open, and I step inside, followed by Killian and Reese and Keaton and Ari.
“Me too,” Killian wiggles his brows as he finally places Reese on the ground and she loses her footing for a moment, but his arm wraps around her front, pulling her back to his front and holding on to her.
“Wanna ride with us?' Keaton asks and I give a shrug of the shoulders.
“I suppose that's the safest option,” I eye Killian who is whispering in his wife's ear, she's giggling and blushing. “These two will be fucking as soon as they're in the taxi and I'm all for it, just don't want to witness it.” I lick my upper lip and Keaton chuckles beside me.
“You got it, me and Ari are exhausted and looking forward to a full night’s sleep...” he trails off then gives Arizona a slow wink. “We're definitely fucking.”
And I scrub my face.
The lift hits the ground floor, and I am out of it like a bat out of hell.
“Nate,” Keaton calls out and I flip him off.
“I'm gonna walk.”
And I do.
I walk because I am in no mood for a live sex show tonight.