Chapter 9
Chapter Nine
Raelyn
The concert just came to an end. The last few hours have been nothing short of amazing, and there’s still more to come.
I’m like a ball of nerves, impatiently waiting to see him.
“I’m going to go out on a limb here, and say you’re not coming home with us,” Rylie says, throwing me a knowing grin.
“Please tell me he can hook me up with someone famous.” Brynn nudges me.
Everyone laughs. Leave it to Brynn to lighten the mood and calm my nerves.
Maddie grabs my shoulder, giving me a reassuring squeeze. “This is your adventure, now get your sexy ass back there. Also, tell him we expect VIP tickets to a concert as a thank you in the future.”
I look up to see a security guard approaching us. “Miss Raelyn, will you follow me please, ma’am.”
I wave to the girls. “I’ll catch up with y’all later.”
“Sure you will,” Rylie says.
I blow them a kiss, as I follow the guard backstage.
We walk down a hallway busy with people, take a turn, and then come to a stop at a door. I look at the nameplate reading Holt Hayes as the guard gives a swift knock.
My nerves are back at an all-time high as I suck in a breath.
Holt opens the door in a rush, and we stand staring at each other as security walks away.
An easy smile forms on his face. “Hey, please come in.”
I walk in, not trusting my voice yet, and look around.
He motions to the couch. “Do you want anything to drink?”
“No thank you, I’m okay for the moment,” I reply, taking a seat on the couch. I can feel my palms getting clammy.
His hazel eyes take me in. “So, what did you think about my new song?”
Looking up at him, I decide to be bold. “The lyrics were catchy, but I need to ask. Was that song about me?”
“Yes,” he says without any hesitation, taking a seat beside me.
“I’m confused,” I reply, honestly. What exactly does that mean?
He leans in touching my face, and then his hand travels through my hair.
My breath catches. Why does his touch have to affect me so much?
“Raelyn, those big, beautiful, blue eyes have haunted me these last few months.”
I frown. “I’ve seen pictures of you out with beautiful women since us. You seemed to be carrying on with your life just fine without me. I thought I was just another number to you.”
He shakes his head. “Those pictures aren’t what they seem. The label has an image they want me to keep up.”
I let that sink in, but I’m still not convinced.
He continues, “I tried to find you. All I had was your first name, and that you lived in some beach town. I didn’t even know what damn beach or where to start. I searched social media time and time again, but always came up empty handed.”
I take in everything he says, searching his eyes. My heart flutters, he tried to find me. “I found you. I knew who you were before we left Nashville,” I state. “Even if I hadn’t looked for you, I would’ve figured out who you were soon enough though. Your face is plastered everywhere.”
He frowns. “I was hoping you would reach out to me, but the message never came.”
I chew on my lip. “I didn’t want to be that girl. You only promised me one night. You’re a man whore with commitment issues, remember? You told me you didn’t do relationships.”
He places a hand under my chin, tilting it up as his eyes bore into mine. “If you only knew the things that have been going through my head. You were never just a number. Deep down, I think I knew that the morning you walked out of the hotel room. You’ve stayed with me. I never could seem to shake you.”
A smile tugs at my lips. “It was a pretty epic night. I’m ashamed to say that I have somewhat stalked you on social media, but I didn’t have the courage to reach out.”
He searches my eyes. “Stay with me tonight.”
I shake my head. “I can’t.”
He drops his hand from my face. “Are you seeing someone?” he asks, clenching his fist at his side.
I subtly shake my head. “No, nothing like that. I just can’t be casual with you. I walked away from you once, but I have a feeling it won’t be as easy to walk away again.”
He touches my face again. His fingers warm against my skin. “I don’t want you to walk away this time.”
I look up at him in question.
“I want you to give me a chance. You make me want more,” he says.
“What about the other women? I’ve been played the fool once, and I won’t do it again. I won’t allow you to see other women if you want this. You only touch me,” I say, firmly.
“I only want you, Raelyn. It was always empty, meaningless sex until I experienced a night with you. You changed me. I don’t want other women; I haven’t for a while now. I had a lot of time to think about our night together, and you have constantly stayed on my mind. I want this. Please give me a chance to prove it to you.”
Can I trust his words? I bite on the inside of my cheek. “How can we make this work? It won’t be easy. You’re on the road touring, and I have a full time job.”
“Our tour is coming to an end soon, so I’ll have some downtime for a while to write new music and record. We can make it work. This will be new to me. I’m not saying it will be perfect and I’m not saying I won’t make mistakes, but I promise to give you my all,” he says, as he leans in close while searching my face.
I think I’d do anything for this man already, and that scares the shit out of me. I should run like hell, but the chance to enjoy him has me wanting to jump off the cliff headfirst. He has the ability to crush me, but I can’t walk away from him. I want this, too.
Grabbing his face, I bring his lips to meet mine. The kiss starts slow then it feels almost frantic. I melt against him as I taste the familiar mint and whiskey. God, I have missed the feel of his lips, and the way he makes my body hum with just one touch.
I break the kiss and look into his eyes. “Okay, this is your chance, but don’t make me regret this.”
He breaks out in another heart melting smile. “I promise. Now, let’s get out of here. I’m booking us a condo with an oceanfront view. We don’t leave town until tomorrow and you and I have a lot of catching up to do,” he drawls, with a dark smile.
My body tingles with anticipation. “Sounds pretty promising.”
He reaches out for my hand, leading the way. “I aim to please.”
Oh yes, this night just keeps getting better.
I walk around the condo, or should I say penthouse. Only Holt could make this happen at this time of night. I know he said the spotlight comes with some cons, but I sure am enjoying this pro.
Out on the balcony, I lean on the cool railing overlooking the ocean as I take a deep breath. The smell of the salt air always brings a sense of calm over me. The moon shines bright in the night, reflecting off the water.
Big muscular arms wrap around me as Holt kisses my neck. God, I have missed his scent and touch.
My neck is tingling from the warmth of his lips as my body buzzes with anticipation.
I’ve never had this connection with another man, not even Jace. My heart pulls a little because the thought that Holt has the ability to shatter my heart comes back to my mind. Pushing it away, I sigh, relaxing against his body.
“Raelyn, I want to talk and know everything I’ve missed out on in the last few months of your life, but I need you right now. I can’t wait any longer.” He whispers in my ear, sending goosebumps running across my skin.
I turn to face him. “I haven’t touched another man since you. It seems I only crave your touch.”
Shock is evident on his face, then he gives me a slow, dark smile. “You don’t even know how possessive that makes me feel.”
“Make love to me, Holt,” I say, breathlessly.
He looks down at me, his eyes full of desire. “Baby I plan to, but this first time I need to fuck you. It’s been too long since I’ve felt you, and I’m not going to be able to be easy. Especially after what you just told me. I need to claim what’s mine.”
My legs feel weak just from his words. My mouth crashes into his, and I gasp as he bites down on my lip. His hand roams down my body, then slips up my skirt, and in one swift tug, my panties fall to the floor.
My breath catches from the thrill of what’s to come. He picks me up and I wrap my legs around his waist as he carries me inside, setting me on the cool marble island in the dimly lit room.
“Open,” he commands, as he pushes his jeans and boxers down.
I obey and watch him in fascination.
“I want to see how wet my girl is.” He says darkly as he runs a finger through me, making me inhale sharply. “So wet.”
Grabbing my hips, he trusts inside.
A loud moan escapes me as I close my eyes, feeling him stretch and fill me.
Nothing will ever be better than this feeling.
He picks up the pace, fast and hard.
“Ahhh, right there,” I moan.
“My girl likes it rough,” he says huskily, as he unleashes on me.
I can feel my orgasm building as my hands fist in his hair. “I’m almost there.”
His breathing becomes erratic. “God, you feel so good, always so tight.”
I grip his shoulders while wrapping my legs around him, getting him as deep as he can go. “Ohh, I’m about to come.”
My body comes apart in his arms with the most intense, earth shattering orgasm I’ve ever had.
He pumps into me another time, and groans as he fills me with his release.
We stay connected in each other’s arms for a few minutes, both spent, trying to catch our breath.
“Shit,” he says, as he pulls out. “I was so wrapped up in you, I forgot to grab a condom.”
My stomach sinks as I look at him with uncertainty. How could I be that stupid . “I’m on birth control, but I don’t have to worry about anything else, do I?”
He shakes his head. “I’m clean. I’ve never not used a condom before.”
I sigh in relief. “We need to be more careful next time.”
He places his forehead against mine. “You have just completely ruined me. I may not be able to go back now that I know what it feels like to have nothing between us.”
I smirk, running my hand through his dark hair. “You ruined me in Nashville.”
A pleased grin stretches across his face. “Now, I want to make love to you like you deserve. Take your clothes off, and get that sexy ass in bed,” he drawls, as he places me on the ground smacking my ass.
I bite my bottom lip. “Yes sir,” I reply, with a mischievous grin.
My eyes stay locked on his as I take my clothes off, leaving him a trail to follow to the bedroom. I’ll give him a naughty girl.
We lay on the bed, staring up at the ceiling.
He runs his hand through my hair. “I never knew I could miss someone until you walked out of my life.”
Rolling onto my side, I prop up on my elbow. “I should’ve warned you I have that effect on people. Maybe you’re not so warped after all.” I nudge him, playfully.
He laughs. “You do have some kind of pull on me. But tell me, Raelyn, what’s your favorite color, candy, food, etcetera? I want to know all the little things.”
“Hmm, I’m going to be a classic girl, and say pink is my favorite color. Nerd Rope Clusters, hands down, is my favorite candy, but Sour Patch Kids run a close second. For food, I’m going to go with pizza and sushi. I could literally eat those every day, but the pizza better have extra cheese. I’m also a sucker for a red can of Coke—the real thing. I’m not a Diet Coke girl, and you already know my love for margaritas. Your turn.”
“Black is my favorite color. You know, warped soul and all.” He nudges me back. “I would say Reece’s Pieces is my candy pick since I’m a chocolate and peanut butter lover. Anything with rice or pasta, I’ll most likely eat—big carb guy. They just make me work harder in the gym. Steaks are also high up on my list, but it better be medium rare. I’m also a fan of Coke, especially with whiskey. Okay, let’s see. What are your favorite hobbies and shows?”
“I have a love for being outside in nature and taking photos. I think I want to try my hand at photography one day but have yet to bite the bullet to purchase a camera. Also, hanging out with my girls. We have weekly girls’ nights to catch up. We’re all really close. Yellowstone is my jam on shows, although I’m a little salty they’ve yet to film the final season. I’m having withdrawals, and I need to know what happens to the ranch. Besides that, I’m a big crime show junkie. You’re up.”
“Hobbies, let’s see, I’m going to go with music, since it’s my life. I’m also an outdoors guy who enjoys hunting, the gym, and hanging out with the guys in the band. We’re like family now, brothers I never had. Interesting enough, I’m a big Yellowstone fan myself. I strive to be a badass like Rip Wheeler.” He smirks.
“I think you could give him a run for his money.” I yawn. My eyes are starting to get heavy, but I don’t want to end our conversation just yet. I feel like we could talk for hours.
Holt slides off the bed. “I’m going to grab something to drink and go to the bathroom; I’ll be right back. Do you want anything?”
“No thanks, I’m good for now,” I reply. I watch him walk away in his boxers as a smile grows on my face. I never dreamed my night would turn out this way. Best birthday ever!
Holt
Walking back into the bedroom, I find Raelyn sound asleep. Her long dark hair is splayed across the pillow. My chest tightens, she’s beautiful.
I pull the covers up over her, placing a kiss to her forehead. Laying down beside her, I watch her.
I replay our talk tonight in my head. I could see the hidden uncertainty in her eyes when I told her I wanted more. I think about our conversation on the rooftop the night we first met. I told her why I never wanted a relationship. My biggest fear is losing someone I love so much.
The feelings I have for Raelyn are already more than I have ever experienced with any woman. What if I fall in love with her, and what if I was to ever lose her? I think about my mom and the words she once spoke: “Sometimes, life and love are not always fair, son. A piece of my heart died with your father, but if I’d known when we first met about the fate I’d be dealt, I would still do it all over again. Without any hesitation, I would always choose your father. I knew every day how much he loved us. He was a great husband and father, and he left me with the best gift that was part of him—you. You were our biggest blessing, Holt.”
My mother is right; I can’t live life in what if s and fears. Screw my fears, I won’t miss out on the chance for great love by giving in to the fear of losing her. Life’s about taking chances. I will not be scared to love. While I watch the steady rhythm of her breathing, I make a promise to myself. I will not hold back.
When she wakes up, I want to ease her doubts, ask her to go on tour with me until it’s over. I might be jumping the gun, but I don’t want to waste another minute not having her with me. I have this overwhelming urge to protect her. I pull her against my body, inhaling her sweet scent.
“Sweet dreams, my pretty little poison,” I whisper, as I kiss her hair.