14. Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fourteen
G rey watched me as he stepped closer, his cologne wafting through my nose as I inhaled deeply. The musky scent of citrus and masculine leather infiltrated my senses.
“I didn’t expect it to be this easy to get you to my bedroom,” he teased.
My heart was racing so fast I could feel it echoing through my ears. I didn’t know if it was the drinks, the urge to rip his clothes off, or both, but either way, I was struggling with what to do next. My thoughts were fuzzy around him, but he didn’t need to know that.
“You’re ridiculous. I just needed to use the restroom, and this was the first one I found.”
“Uh huh. Whatever you need to tell yourself,” he said.
We were so close now I could feel his breath on my face.
“You do know that not every girl you come into contact with wants to sleep with you,” I suggested.
Though, I couldn’t decide which girl I was. Because at this exact moment, I was leaning toward the girl who most definitely wanted to sleep with him.
“You’re right, but you’re not every girl…” He trailed off. “That’s been made abundantly clear by the fact that despite my best efforts, you’ve consumed my thoughts for the past twenty-four hours.”
While I, too, had been struggling to think about anything that wasn’t in the shape of a dark and mysterious six-foot man ever since our first encounter in the middle of the street, he was too smooth, and there was no doubt in my mind that he’d said that exact thing a million times before.
“Does that line usually work for you?” I taunted.
Before he could say anything, I stepped to the side and beelined for the door.
Just when I thought I was in the clear, he gently gripped my left arm, pulling me toward him. He held my hand against his chest, his heartbeat drumming against my palm. The steadiness made me feel closer to him, as if his heartbeat was doing its best to calm the racing of my own heart.
The look in his darkened eyes was different than before.
His mouth rested a mere inch from my ear, and the seduction in his voice as he said, “I don’t use lines, but if I did, that wouldn’t be the one I’d use on you, trust me,” made my body quiver.
A rush of want flooded through me, and in that split second, I wanted to kiss Grey Prescott so fucking bad, but I couldn’t muster up enough conviction. Instead, I deflected.
“What line would you use then?” I said, half curious, half trying to give myself time to decide what to do next.
“There isn’t a single pick-up line that would accurately describe what I want to do to you.”
I swallowed at the ruggedness of his tone.
I assumed that our flirting was just that—flirting. And while I’d allowed my thoughts to wander to places that I probably wouldn’t admit out loud, I never imagined in a million years that he’d toyed around with similar thoughts.
“I’ve run through all the different ways I’d have my way with you ever since I saw you behind that bar last night. That red lipstick. Those tight little jeans. That white top attempting to hide what was underneath,” he said, pausing to take in my reaction.
I didn’t know if he expected me to respond, but there was no chance I was going to be able to form any words.
“And this,” he said, barely grazing my leg as his free hand brushed up my dress. “You show up to my party. At my house. Looking like this.”
The heat of his fingertips ignited like fire. If I wasn’t trying to ignore the desire growing throughout my body, I would’ve thrown my head back in pleasure. His mouth nuzzled close to my neck, not quite touching it but close enough.
Chills flooded my entire body, and the tiny hairs on my skin sprung up, electrified.
“Careful.” My breathing appeared calm, at least for the moment, as I did my best to hold my own. “I’m not wearing any panties.”
Grey’s eyes flew to mine, his jaw clenched as he tightened his grip on my left thigh. “Don’t tempt me, Miller Morgan.”
I reveled in both his touch and his words, imagining what it would be like to feel his fingertips on every inch of my body. I swallowed hard at the thought.
“Or what,” I said as I started to spin out from under his grasp.
I didn’t get far before he nudged me back against the door, pinning my hands to his chest. He wrapped his fingers around the base of my neck, his eyes staring straight into mine, those gold flecks seemingly more prominent in his low-lit bedroom.
The want crawled up my throat.
Fuck it. I’m supposed to be living a little, right?
I pushed my lips into his and my entire world erupted.
He wasted no time returning the favor. I moved my hands from his chest and grabbed both sides of his sport coat, pulling him as close as I could. Our kiss was intoxicating, and I couldn’t get enough.
A soft whimper left the back of my throat and his grip tightened around my neck. The thirst growing between us was obvious, and within seconds, his tongue was crashing through the barrier of my lips. Our mouths eagerly clung to one another, desperate for the taste.
But then, right on cue, my intrusive thoughts came barreling in, one right after the other, pulling me straight out of this dreamy moment and into a massive wave of doubt. What was I doing here? This wasn’t me. I didn’t do random hookups like this.
I pulled away.
“Well, aren’t you full of surprises,” he said, swiping his finger across his lower lip.
I stood silently, trying my best to regroup.
“You okay?” he asked, but before I could say anything, a knock rattled behind my head. He stepped back, allowing me to move from the doorway before opening the door.
I found myself wanting to reach for my lips, missing the presence of his. While his back was turned, I stole a touch.
“Hey, man. Sorry, I need a bathroom.”
“Seems like a common theme tonight,” he responded. “Be my guest.” He motioned toward the bathroom.
Bewildered by the feelings that were running rampant, I took once last glance at the delicious man in front of me, hoping to sneak a peek without him noticing, but his eyes were already on me. No words left either of our mouths, but they didn’t have to. What just happened between us was more than either of us were prepared for, that much was clear.
“I’m sorry,” I muttered. “I have to go.”
There was something inexplicable yet natural that gravitated us toward one another, but I couldn’t figure out what it was. I was conflicted in more ways than one. Denying the pull I felt, I made my way back to the commotion of the party.
The bar was crowded, but I stopped anyway in an attempt to get another water. The pleasure fog began to lift, and slowly the reality of Grey Prescott washed over me.
It came all too naturally for him. He was a smooth talker, he was gorgeous, and he had a shit ton of money. With a trifecta like that, he didn’t have to try to get women, that I was sure of.
I was attempting to lean into this whole live a little thing, but my ability to do so was dwindling. I wanted to be a fun, carefree girl, one who had random hookups, but it was hard. Although, thanks to that moment of short-lived, I’d at least have that moment between us in my memory for the rest of eternity.
Between the lasting tingle on my lips and my incessant thoughts, a sense of tiredness overwhelmed me. I decided it was best to call it quits.
I searched the party for Sam and Anthony but couldn’t find either one of them. In fairness to Sam, I’d been a little MIA, and honestly, I wasn’t sure for how long. When I was drinking, time either seemed to stand still or move at a ridiculously fast pace.
And after that kiss, it had done both.
From the look of it, the party was dying down—some people lounging by the pool, others walking toward the door. I pulled my phone from the gold clutch around my wrist and was shocked to see the time—half past midnight—and two missed calls and a text from Sam.
Shit.
Sam:
Not sure what the hell happened to you! I’m guessing that you had a swift exit from the dance floor and made your way home. I’ll call you tomorrow. Love you.
I never wanted anyone to worry about where I was, ever. I quickly typed a message back.
Me:
So sorry, long story. Chat tomorrow. Love you.
Now I was pressed with figuring out how in the hell I was going to get home. My apartment was only about two miles away, so walking seemed like a good option, but I knew ordering an Uber was the smarter one. The loud music from inside was making it hard to think, so I waded through the remaining partygoers and out the front door.
As I stepped outside, the cool ocean air felt refreshing and a bit sobering. I hadn’t realized just how flushed I was until now, and the breeze flowing through my dress was everything. I took a seat in a rocking chair at the front of the wraparound porch. The white wooden chair gave a stunning view of the lilac hydrangeas that I’d admired so much upon arriving here tonight.
From this spot, a three-car garage came into view. A black silhouette was leaning up against the side of the garage, which piqued my interest. The rocking chair creaked as I stood, and as I walked over, I was surprised to see the cute bartender smoking a cigarette.
“Funny seeing you here,” I said.
His body perked up. “Just catching a few minutes to myself before I head out.”
“Oh! I didn’t mean to interrupt,” I said.
“Nah, you’re good. It’s Miller, right?” he asked, sucking in a large breath of cigarette.
“Yeah,” I responded. “You’re already leaving? The party isn’t even over yet.”
“Says the girl standing out in a dark driveway all by herself.” He chuckled before adding, “They cut a few of us because the party is slowing down. Granted, I’ve never been part of a seven-bartender staff, but then again, I’ve never been to a party like this.”
“Ha. Then it’s a first for both of us. Although, these kinds of parties are pretty frequent during the summer months. Things really slow down after Labor Day though, so enjoy the chaos and the extra-large tips while you can.”
“You’re not kidding about that. The guy who owns this house handed me five hundred dollars in cash and told me I made some of the best dirty martinis he’d ever had. And you want the kicker? I’m pretty sure I didn’t make him a single dirty martini the entire night, but who was I to disappoint the man?” he said, pleased with himself.
The butterflies in my stomach rumbled against their cage that hung on my insides.
“Oh. Well, I guess if he’s going to throw these kinds of parties, the least he can do is take care of the people he hires, right? And I can’t say I disagree with him; those were some damn good martinis.”
“Thank you. I take pride in my skills. And trust me, you’re not going to find me complaining about any tips,” he said, stepping away from the garage and into the light.
Now that I was able to see him in a less hazy light, I wasn’t sure he qualified as a man. In fact, looking closer at him, he was far too young for me, maybe twenty-one at most. He was cute, but cute was the only way to describe him, and after the recent encounter I’d had with Grey Prescott, it was crystal clear that I wasn’t after cute.
He interrupted my thoughts. “The better question is, why are you out here? You’re too pretty to be out here all alone.”
Now his flirty comments made me silently giggle.
“Well, aren’t you sweet, but I’m not alone. I’m talking to you. And I’m getting ready to order an Uber.”
“Wait, do you need a ride?” he asked. “I’m about to head back to drop off one of the catering vans at Floyds.” He pointed in the direction of the white van parked a few steps away. “I’m happy to give you a lift back to town. I don’t know where you live, but considering the size of the town, I can’t imagine it’s too far.”
Floyds was a quick walk from my apartment, and while he was still technically a stranger, there was something comforting about riding with him versus an Uber driver, especially considering my brutal anxiety of cars. Floyds had been around for years, and Floyd himself was a regular at The Wharf, so I felt confident in his choice of employees.
“Really?” I asked. “That would be perfect.”
He smiled, pushing the key he held in his hand until we heard the doors of the van unlock.
“Don’t mention it. I’m Adam, by the way.”
“Nice to meet you, Adam.”
Relief washed over me, knowing that I’d secured a ride home and would be crawling into my bed in a matter of minutes. I walked to the passenger door, but before I could grab the handle, someone else beat me to it.
“So, your parents taught you not to give your name to strangers, but they didn’t teach you not to get in a car with one?” The deep voice on the back of my neck was one that I’d never forget after tonight.
“Sir,” Adam sputtered.
“Call me Grey,” he interrupted.
“Grey, I was just giving Miller a ride home so she didn’t have to wait for an Uber.” His fingers fumbled with the keys.
My eyes were glued to Grey, watching the tiny muscles in his structured jaw tense once again. “I appreciate it, Adam, but I’ll make sure she gets home. Thanks, man,” he insisted.
“Sure thing. Thanks again, Mr. Prescott. I mean, Grey.”
With that, Adam slid into the driver’s seat and drove up the driveway in record time.
“You weren’t actually just going to get into a car with a complete stranger simply because you wanted to leave my party that badly, were you?”
“As a matter of fact, I was. Floyd is a regular at the bar and a friend of my dad’s, so I knew I had nothing to worry about,” I mocked. “I’m just ready to be home. I’ve played Cinderella long enough.”
“You could’ve just asked me for a ride before you decided to bolt from the party.”
“A ride,” I started. “From you?”
“Yes, from me. At this point, I don’t see anyone else out here capable of giving you one,” he said.
“Grey,” I started. “You’ve been drinking. I already go out of my way to avoid cars, so there is no way in hell I’m getting into a car with someone after they’ve been drinking.”
“First off, I’d never drink and drive. Ever. Secondly, I’ve only had a few sips of my Dark & Stormy over a four-hour period.” His voice emphasized the name of the cocktail. “Regardless, I wouldn’t be the one driving you.”
“Okay, well in that case, I’m just as capable of ordering an Uber as you are,” I blustered, a little miffed.
“MJ, I’m not ordering an Uber. My driver will take you.”
“Your driver?” I asked.
Right on cue, a black SUV crept down the driveway.
“Oh.” I folded my arms in defeat. “And by the way, I didn’t bolt. I just needed some fresh air and decided it was probably time for me to go home after all that.” My hand uncontrollably reached for my lips.
He cocked his head. “I disagree. In fact, I don’t think you could’ve chosen a worse time to leave. However”—he threw his hands up in defeat—“if a ride is what you wanted, a ride is what I would’ve given you.”
“Easy for you to say,” I chirped.
“What do you mean?”
“This is just a regular Friday night for you. Not for me. I don’t normally go to parties like this, in houses like that.” I pointed to the porch. “And I never kiss guys like you. I’m just a girl who grew up in a vacation town and never got to vacation.”
A coy smile displayed itself on that handsome face of his. “But yet, here you are… attending a party like this, in a house like that.” He tenderly brushed his bottom lip. “And kissing a guy like me.”
“Yeah, I know. Tell me about it. All I was trying to do was embrace the chaos a little, mix things up a bit. Not continue to live the same repetitive life that I have ever since…” My words were coming so fast I almost didn’t stop in time. “I was just trying to live a little, you know?” I paused. “What am I talking about, of course you do. Look at you.”
“Actually, I don’t know it as well as it may seem. My days might look different than yours, but they’re just as monotonous. Trust me.”
The silence hung heavily in the air.
“Maybe we both need a lesson on letting loose.” He chuckled, but his words illuminated a sliver.
What would Liv tell me to do at this exact moment?
The urge at the bottom of my belly told me everything I needed to know.
“Ms. Morgan.” Grey reached for the rear passenger door. Guiding me into the back seat, he placed his hand on the small of my back, his fingertips like tiny sparks. “A ride home.”
Our eyes locked as he went to shut the car door, but before he could, I shoved my hand in the way. “Come with me?” I asked.
His eyes darkened and he traced his tongue along his bottom lip.
“And the surprises just keep on coming.”
Grey didn’t seem like a summer fling kind of guy. He struck me as more of a one-night stand kind of guy, but either way, I was determined to embrace the chaos.