Breathless Promises (Alluring Promises Series Book 3) (7 page)

He opened a drawer in his closet and pulled out some boxers. My hopes of his towel opening up while he slipped the boxer shorts on underneath were crushed despite my staring at the blue cloth, begging it to fall. “Well, don’t...I mean…don’t wear the stuff you wore in college or anything. I just asked you to tone down the way you dress. But you know, it can be slightly sexy. I mean, I am one of Atlanta’s most eligible bachelors, right?”

I swallowed knowing he was right and felt silly for my rationale. “I was just trying to do the right thing.”

“You’ll be fine Aubrey.” He pulled a crisp white dress shirt from his closet and started to put it on. “You’re beautiful and most important, you’ve got an amazing sense of business smarts. Everything I need in a wife. My parents will love that about you.” Just hearing about his parents, whom I still haven’t met, sent my nerves into a tailspin. “You need to go shopping. Spend some money on nice clothes. I’ll get you added to my credit card—that way expenses will be separated from what I am paying you. Will that work?”

I smiled and nodded. What girl wouldn’t think that would be okay? “I…that’ll work nice. Thank you.” I looked around his bedroom and leaned back on my hands. Glancing down at my pants, I actually had to agree with him.
And Clark. The bastard was right about how stupid this outfit looks.
I glanced up just in time to see a glimpse of his muscular thighs before they were tucked away in his slacks.

“Are you still okay with all this?” My eyes snapped up to meet his. “I mean, you’re still up for this, right?” His quizzical expression made him look slightly panicked.

“Of course. Yes, I’m fine with it,” I insisted.

“Good.” He shot me the smile that I adore. Along with the intense stare he gave me, my cheeks flushed yet again. “Thank you. For doing this. I mean, with my parents on my ass about settling down before I can take over the company, you’re really helping me out here. I just don’t want you to get hurt or anything. You’re basically giving up your life for several years.”

I stood up and took the silk tie from his hand. Slipping it around his collar, I began to knot it. “I told you. I need a change in my life. It’ll be fun to play your wife and gain some business savvy in the meantime.” We were both silent as I finished the knot and pulled it straight. I pressed my hands to his chest, pretending to smooth out his shirt. I really just wanted to touch him and hoped my touch would spark
some
feeling toward me. Our eyes met and I felt my heart tug when he grabbed my hands. He gave them a quick squeeze before letting them drop. 

“Well, you better change so we can get going.” He flicked his wrist up to check his watch. “We’ve got about an hour or so. I’ll be in my office, if you need anything.” Trying not to appear defeated, I pasted on a smile and nodded.

“I’ll go get changed.”

I headed to my bedroom, which was located on the other side of the very expansive condo. There were actually two bedrooms and I chose the largest one with the same view Gregory has from his.

Thinking about my wardrobe options, I walked right over to the closet. All my clothes from my bags were already hung. My fingers slid over all the materials draped over the hangers. Some dresses were from the last time I was here, but I really should buy more. I might as well shop while I am here considering that would make it easier when I finally move down. We still hadn’t discussed that particular detail, but I assumed it would be after I finally meet his parents. From what I understand, they weren’t easy people to please.

I sat down on the bed and smoothed my hand over the soft comforter. Everything was so expensive and elegant.
Would I really fit in?
When he first proposed the idea to me, it seemed perfect. I didn’t exactly hate my job, but it was getting mundane. Not to mention, I was always picked over for promotions because I was the only one not married. That meant leaving town for a couple of months to set up the new hotels wouldn’t really affect my life, like my married co-workers. Being in human resources, Vanessa hated that. She desperately wanted me to speak up, but in all honesty, I had to sort of agree. What was my life, really? One night stands were not getting me anywhere. Then I’d hear the voices reminding me, yet again, that I’m not someone worth being loved.
My body was the only thing any man would ever enjoy about me.

Having this new plan in my life worked out perfect. I have a direction, albeit not a real relationship, but at least I was doing something with my life. Helping out Gregory gave me some sort of new meaning to my life.

I know what you’re thinking. For someone with business smarts, how can I be so stupid about love and self-worth? I’ll tell you: When nightmares and secrets constantly haunt you, you look for something to hold on to. Especially when you are searching for answers. Gregory is my answer. At least he is for right now. The money that he is setting me up with will give me plenty of time to think about what to do with my future. Money isn’t everything, but it’ll surely help out if things ever dissolve between us. That part isn’t in my plan though. I know he’ll fall in love with me. It may not be soon, but somewhere in the future, he will. And then he will adore me just like I adore him.

I showered and got ready, making sure I downplayed my makeup, as I still wasn’t exactly sure what Gregory had envisioned my appearance to be. One of the few dresses hanging in the closet was another grandma-looking one. I guess he and Clark were right; I needed to find a happy medium. I basically went from one extreme to the other. I looked at myself in the mirror and knew that if I had a slit in the dress, it would at least look slightly provocative without being overly sexy. I ran into my bathroom and found my brow scissors. I quickly and very delicately cut along the seam of my dress. Impressed with my skills and tugging at the few stray threads, I made sure it was just at the line my thigh highs would show when I sit.

“Aubrey,” Gregory called out from the other side of my door, startling me. “We need to get going.”

I ran to the door and opened it. While he took in my clothing, I pressed my lips together, waiting to hear if he liked it or not. He looked like he was about to roll his eyes, so I placed my foot out, making sure he realized my leg would show when we walked. Or sat. His brow quirked up and a smile crossed his lips. “Nice.” He approved.

“So are my tits.” I blurted out my normal crude response without thinking. I swallowed quickly, hoping he wasn’t going to be upset with me.

I relaxed as soon as I watched his beautiful lips turn into a smile as he laughed. “Ah, still Aubrey from college. Just make sure you don’t say anything like that at dinner.” He put out his arm to escort me to the door. “And yes, you have an amazing rack.” I chuckled, thrilled that he still has some of his sense of humor from college. I hadn’t seen it since we’ve met up again, but I was elated that the joking, teasing Gregory I’d known in college still existed.

Clark was wrong. Gregory is okay with my real self
and
the version he wants me to portray. My new plan for my life was really going to work out in my favor.

For once.

Clark

After Aub left, I actually felt bad. I shouldn’t have said anything. I bet she acts differently with him. Or maybe this new person really is a chick. I got a chub thinking her new love was a chick. That would be hot—especially, if I could get them both over here and get myself into that sandwich.

Although, if she wanted me in the mix she’d have to go back to what she usually wears. The silly black pants and stupid top with the granny neckline wasn’t gonna cut it for me. She looked like a freaking nun. Who the hell wears shit like? Someone who never wants to get laid again! Maybe her new boyfriend is a minister or something and she’s trying to fit into his world.
Why?
Aub has the most amazing body. Why cover it up when you look like her? Not to mention, as her new roommate, it was a perk to see her body on a daily basis. Even if she didn’t want to sleep with me again, that body sure gave me some hot scenes I’d remember when I jerk off later.

At least Aub got my mind off Tina for a little while. Until Aub tried to make me think that
I
was the one getting played. I tried to reason out in my head that I’m really the one playing Tina. Or so, I’d like to think that. What if Aub is right and Tina is doing some weird woman shit?

I stood up and started pacing.
Women.
They fuck with your head all the time. Just like my mom did to my dad. My phone rang just then and I checked the caller id. Speak of the devil himself.

“Hey,” I answered.

“Hey, yourself. What’s going on with you?” My dad’s gruff voice boomed through the phone.

“Nothing much. Just working and bar hopping.”

I heard his proud laugh. “That’s my boy. Just remember to wrap it. Women will try anything to trap you and then leave with all your money.” I knew what was coming next and mouthed his words right along with him. “Just like your mom did.”

I nodded, thinking about Tina. She’s on the pill and tells me all the time that she won’t get pregnant. That doesn’t stop me from wearing a glove.
I bet that’s what she’s trying to do, get pregnant and trap me.
I paced the floor, getting more pissed off with every step.

“I just thought I’d call and touch base with you. Haven’t talked to you in a while. Benji said he saw you at Ariana’s birthday party.” I nodded even though he couldn’t see me.

“Yeah, we caught up a little bit. It’s just not like it used to be.”

“I know. Family changes things. Let me know when you have some time to have lunch with your old man. Maybe come over on Sunday afternoon to watch a game or something.”

“Yeah. That sounds good. I’ll swing by on Sunday.”

“Great.”

I nodded again. “Okay, old man. See you then.” I hung up and continued to wear a path in the carpet while I thought about the little trap Tina’s concocting. I felt like punching something.

I dialed Z’s number, knowing he could definitely help me out. He works out just about every day at the boxing gym down the road. With his jealousy issues, he sure as hell needs it. Right now, I was pretty sure I knew how he felt. Punching something was going to have to help me out. I smiled as Z answered on the second ring.

******

“What happened to you?” Matt asked as he grabbed his beer from Sandy. It was hours later at Allure and the bar was packed tonight. Matt was staring at my black eye and I knew he was going to start harassing me any second now.

“Z,” I stated, giving him the barest explanation. Just then Z came walking up, laughing.

“Hey asshole. Look at that shiner. Oh and a busted lip too. Looks like you pissed someone off.” He laughed as he studied my face.

I took a swig from my beer as I glanced around the bar. “Very funny, asshole.”

He chuckled right before his expression turned serious. “Hey, next time keep your mouth shut and quit taunting me.” Z tried to say that with a straight face, but a small smirk appeared shortly after.

“I didn’t taunt you. I was just saying the truth, pretty boy.” I can never resist adding in another jab at him.

He raised his brows quickly. “Wanna go again? Maybe this time you’ll wear the headgear so you won’t get busted up.” I shook my head and laughed.

Z really does know how to fight pretty well. Our day at the boxing ring was a great distraction and it also let me get some of my frustration out. I might have to start going there more often.

Just then, as if on cue, Felicia walked up to me. “Oh no, Clark!” Her soft hand grazed my cheek. “What happened? Are you all right?” She asked with complete sincerity and concern. Her green eyes stared at my swollen eye and then she touched my lip. Her fingers felt like velvet and I knew right then this was going to definitely work in my favor.

I grabbed her hand and kissed it tenderly, wincing for added effect. “I’ll be fine, baby. Just helping out someone who was in trouble.” I tried my best not to smile or smirk as I lied. I waited for the guys to start in, but usually they’re pretty good when I’m trying to pick up a chick.

“Oh you’re so sweet.” She glanced over to Z. “Isn’t he just so sweet?” I waited, anxious to see if Z was going to blow my cover.

“Yeah, he’s a genuine sweetheart.” Z’s sarcasm couldn’t be missed. Well, except by Felicia. I glanced at him and wiggled my brows with a smirk right before Felicia’s eyes fell back to mine.

Vanessa walked back, catching Felicia’s attention for a moment. I took that opportunity to lean back to Matt and whispered, “Watch this. I can beat my own record. She’ll suck my cock within one minute of hitting the supply closet.” Matt shook his head laughing and then glanced down to his watch.

“Time,” he whispered back with his signature half-smile, cocking his eyebrow with slight disbelief.

I grabbed Felicia’s hand and led her with me toward the back room. “You know. I was wondering if you could take a look at it a little closer. I remember you told me you used to work at a doctor’s office. Right?” I turned to study her face to see what she would say. She was walking willingly.
Shit.
I might be able to pull this off.

As we reached the supply closet, her face looked a bit troubled. “Well, I was a receptionist. I wouldn’t say I’m exactly qualified to help you.”

I reached for the doorknob and looked back at her. “I’m sure you’ll be more than able to help me feel better.”

She looked around, slightly worried, but the second her eyes met mine again, I could tell she wanted me. I pulled the door open and flicked the light on, tugging on her hand to bring her through the door. As I grabbed her waist and pulled her close to me, I could smell her sweet, cheap perfume. Our eyes met and I knew she was all in. Blow job or hard fuck. I couldn’t figure out which one I wanted more as my dick strained against my jeans.

“What if someone walks in?” Her voice wavered ever so slightly. I pressed my lips to her silky ones. Fuck, she’s got a great mouth.
Blow job.
I definitely need these wrapped around my cock. I reached over and pressed the lock on the door. Hearing the click, Felicia let out a delicate sigh of relief. My hand slid down her shoulder and caressed the top of her breast. Huge rack. Fake, but huge. I prefer natural, easier to squeeze and to smack. I’m always scared with the fake ones that I’ll pop them or something weird.

“Who’d you get into a fight with?” She asked as her hand slid inside the front of my jeans. The tips of her fingers caressed my balls, which made holding a thought pretty difficult.

“Some jerk who was trying to steal a lady’s purse,” I lied as I threw my head back enjoying the pleasure she was giving me. She has really amazing hands.

“Wow. You really are Superman. And Superman deserves to be rewarded.” Her baby voice was pretty annoying, but she continued to slide down and unbuckled my belt and jeans in record time. “Ohh and what a superman you are. You’re sooo big, Clark,” she cooed. I smiled.

Hearing that never gets old.

******

Last night was exactly what I needed; drinks with friends, flirting with a shitload of chicks, and an awesome blowjob from Felicia. I even beat my old time of getting head by five seconds. Matt’s great at timing this shit. He used to be the best wingman until Vanessa took him off the market. She’s got him whipped now. Although, I’m happy for him since I know for a fact she gives it to him all the time.

I woke up feeling refreshed too. I actually got a great night’s sleep for the first time in a long while. Benji told me it’s probably sexual frustration from having Aub so close. Maybe that’s true considering she’s not here and I finally slept like a baby again.

After working out and a full day at the office, I was ready to head over and grab Matt and Vanessa for dinner. We all try to have dinner together when we can—mainly because Vanessa and Aub miss living together.

Aub hadn’t made it back yet, so I went over and knocked on Matt’s door. Living across the hall from him has its perks. It’s not like it was when we were roommates, but this works out great too.

The door swung open and Vanessa stepped aside to let me in. Usually she sneers at me, but maybe today she didn’t hate me as much as usual. Okay. So, Vanessa hates me because I told Matt she was pretty much going to screw him over and he should move back down to Atlanta. I couldn’t help it; he was acting like a pussy and he needed to be reminded what she was doing behind his back. It all got straightened out, so I have no idea why she still holds that against me.

“You’ll like me again one day,” I teased her as I walked in rubbing my scruff and smiling.

“I never liked you to begin with, so again will never happen.” At least she was missing the bitchy tone from her biting remark. Matt walked out from their bedroom, slipping a t-shirt over his head.

“Where are we going?” I asked him. Matt glanced over expectantly at Vanessa. That was definitely the word to use. Ever since she got pregnant, she always chooses what we’re eating for dinner. I can’t complain considering it never really matters to me; however, seeing my buddy getting lead around like a dog on a leash is annoying as hell. Maybe I should have stepped into the boxing ring with him yesterday.

“Mmm, I’m thinking Mexican tonight.” Matt looked over at me and I shrugged.

At the restaurant, I sat across from the lovebirds. Usually, I have Aub or Tina sitting there for me to chat with. Now I’m just staring at my buddy and his chick as they are continuously eying one other. Hell, they were probably feeling each other up under the table too. I was finally saved from having to let my eyes roam aimlessly around the room to avoid contact when Vanessa’s phone rang. I practically shouted
Hallelujah
when I overheard Vanessa tell the person on the phone the name of the restaurant. At least there would be another person to endure this shit with me and I hoped to hell it was Aub.

Whatever spell they were under was broken after that phone call. I was actually starting to enjoy myself with these two until my phone rang out. The moment my eyes scanned who sent the text, my stomach dropped. I had spent almost the entire week trying not to think about her and then she goes and sends me a text.

Tina:
Thinking about you and your amazing hands. Nothing compares to what you can give me. Just say it…

“Anything wrong?” Matt asked.

What gave it away?
My face was probably beet red and my jaw was clenched.

Shivers ran up and down my spine the moment I felt hot breath on my neck. Just the scent of her and the brush of her warm cheek against mine and I immediately forgot about that text. I looked up to see Aub chuckle at my reaction. I’ll give it to her. She definitely had my attention. Hell, she had my cock’s full attention as I felt it strain against my jeans. It worsened when she gave me a small shove, pushing me further into the booth.

“Nothing’s wrong. Same shit she does to him all the time,” Aub answered Matt and then pressed her lips together. Her warm brown eyes stared into mine for what seemed like forever, as if she could see through me. A slight nervousness came over me when she leaned into me, brushing her arm against mine. That huskiness in her voice didn’t help matters either.

“How long are you going to let her do this crap to you?” She asked as she took my phone from my hands and placed it on the other side of her menu. My eyes skimmed over her and I smiled bright when I realized she seemed like her old self again—confident and not trying to act or dress differently for someone else.

“She’s not doing anything to me. She’s just sent a stupid text. I’m not getting played,” I explained. “Matter of fact, last night I got my dick sucked by someone else. So, who’s getting played here?”

A smile crept over Aub’s lips.
Man, they’re really full.
Plump. That lip gloss she’s wearing was giving me a boner. Or maybe I only had one thing on my mind.

“Okay, if you say you’re not. It looked to me like you were getting upset over her little text instead of shrugging it off like most people do when they’re not bothered by something like that.”

“I wasn’t bothered by it. It was more of a…‘I can’t believe her’ type of reaction.” I looked over to Matt and Vanessa. Both of them had the same expression of disbelief on their faces. “I
don’t
care,” I insisted. My voice raised a little more than I anticipated. Everyone at the table nodded, but I could tell it was only for some weird sympathy. I decided to turn the focus back to Aub. “So, how’d your little outfit turn your friend on?”