by Jackie Wang
“Mind carrying me to bed?” I asked when Asher was done.
“I wouldn't have it any other way,” Asher murmured, kissing the tip of my nose.
Once we left the bathroom, a chill ran down my spine. The difference in temperature caused goosebumps to spike along my arms and legs. “Geez it's cold out here,” I said, teeth chattering.
Asher quickly brought me upstairs and laid me on the mattress. Then he wrapped the comforter up around my neck and climbed into bed with me. “Are you still cold? Do you need anything?”
“I'm fine,” I said, face flush and heart beating fast. “I just need you. Here, beside me. Hold me, Asher.”
“Okay love.” Asher pulled me up against his chest, and I could hear his strong heartbeat thumping against my ear. His chest hair tickled my cheek as I inhaled his scent.
“This is so comfy,” I said. “I could stay like this forever.”
“Me too, Sierra. Me too. Now get some sleep, baby. You earned it,” Asher murmured against my hair.
The moment was intimate. Sweet. Completely undemanding and relaxed. I was surprised at how soon my eyelids began to droop. Minutes later, I was sound asleep.
CHAPTER 26
ASHER
I HAD ALWAYS PUT OFF buying my own home because I didn't want to lay down any roots. I liked the idea and freedom of just packing up my things and moving to a new condo or townhouse and starting anew. In fact, one of the reasons I had decided to rent Sierra's grandmother's house was because I wanted a fresh start. My old condo, the one I had rented after I graduated from law school, reminded me too much of my college days. Too many drunken parties and one-night stands. I also felt stifled in that penthouse. It was too much money for too little space.
So when I learned about a charming Victorian home available for rent, I jumped at the opportunity. I'd always had a soft spot for historic homes.
I never thought in a million years any of this would happen.
I looked down at Sierra, who was sound asleep in my arms. Something was so different about her. I could feel it down in my bones. My soul was drawn to hers—no other way to put it, really. It was an uncontrollable feeling that made me feel exhilarated and terrified at the same time. Being with her felt so right, but at the same time, held so many questions. What if we couldn't make this work? What if all of this led to nothing? I would've put my heart on the line for nothing.
No. I couldn't possibly let something this good slip through my fingers. Though I hadn't known her for long, I knew she was a keeper. If I fucked this up, I'd be ruined forever. No doubt about it.
Sierra was the type of woman who could convince me to put down roots–who already had, really. To stay and to treasure a home that belonged to both of us. And I would treasure her. Worship her. And I would do everything in my power to make her realize how much she meant to me. My world had been blurry and undefined chaos until she appeared and made everything clear. It began as lust, but was so much more now. It was love. A pure, unadulterated, can't-live-without-it kind of love.
I should've just slept with her, but I couldn't. My mind swam with questions and possibilities, and I needed to calm the fuck down. So I drove. I drove all the way back home, filled a suitcase full of Sierra's clothes and then I saw her teddy bear. The first thing I had ever learned about her: she was a grown woman who still kept a stuffed animal. I'd thought it was ridiculous then, but now I found it absolutely adorable. Oh how far we'd come. I grabbed the teddy bear before driving back to the lodge.
By the time I returned, it was two in the morning. Everything was peaceful and for the first time in weeks, everything was clear to me. It was as if all the puzzle pieces clicked into place. All my worries faded away, and I had a clear direction now. I knew what I had to do. When I'd figured everything out, I crawled into bed, pulled Sierra close and fell asleep.
+++
“I HAVE A PLAN,” I announced first thing in the morning.
Sierra groaned and rubbed her eyes. “It's too early in the morning to have a plan. I need coffee first.”
“Already ordered room service.” I grinned. “Your breakfast feast awaits.”
“When did you get up?” Sierra asked, pushing herself up. She noticed her suitcase on the floor. “When did you get my stuff? Holy cow how long have I been asleep?”
I glanced at my watch. “It's only nine. I got up an hour ago. I couldn't sleep last night, so I went for a drive,” I explained. “I wanted you to have a fresh change of clothes when you woke up.”
“You shouldn't have, Asher.”
“It's my duty, as your boyfriend.” I walked over and brought back a set of clothes I'd picked out for her. “In fact, as a thank you, I'd love it if you could wear this.”
It was a bright red tank-top, and a flared white skirt. In terms of lingerie, I'd chosen a lacy red bra and matching panties for her.
“Sure. Help me put it on,” Sierra said. She dropped the blanket, and her exposed breasts made me gasp. “We better hide those beauties before I lose my self-control,” I said, looking away.
“Maybe I want you to lose control,” Sierra purred, tugging at my arm and bringing me down onto the bed.
“I made plans for today,” I said. “I don't want us to be late.”
“I'll be quick,” she smiled, tugging at my belt and unbuckling it.
“Sierra—”
“Give me ten minutes. Fifteen tops,” she said, sliding my belt off and working on the zipper.
I couldn't help but stand still and watch as she tugged down my trousers and then continued onto my briefs. Thank God I’d taken a quick shower earlier. But still, we had things to do.
“You don't have to—”
Sierra looked at me through hooded eyes. “I really, really want to. I've been craving your cock since we stepped foot in this place.”
“Have you now?” I asked, grinning.
“Mmhm.” She freed my erection and studied it, her pupils dilating. Her fingertips brushed along my shaft like a paintbrush stroke, sending a painful tingle down to my balls. When her hands finally closed around me, I tensed.
Sierra didn't waste another second. She wrapped her lips around my swollen head, and I was gone.
“Fuck, Sierra...”
Sierra lowered her head until I hit the back of her throat. Then she withdrew again, leaving a trail of glistening wetness along my pulsing member. She repeated the action, this time moving faster. Within a few minutes, I was ready to explode, and she knew it. I wanted to do so much more with her, but I knew I couldn't. I didn't want to hurt her, especially since her leg was still healing. After all, I was a pretty big guy at 6'4” and almost 210 pounds.
When I couldn't handle a second longer of that sweet torture, I pulled out and came all over her smooth chest. Sierra licked her lips and sighed, watching my face as it contorted with ecstasy.
“You taste fantastic,” she said. “Should we go for round two in a bit?”
I leaned down and kissed her; her lips tasted like me. “Time to return the favor.”
“I thought you said we'd be late,” Sierra pointed out.
“This can't wait,” I replied, pushing her down on the bed. She was already soaked when my fingers found her opening and dove inside. I explored her slowly, carefully, an adventurer braving a new world. Her every gasp and sigh ignited me, set my nerves on fire. I wanted to spend all day pleasuring her over and over; I really did. But unfortunately, this would have to be quick.
My fingers probed her channel until they found her G-spot. Within a couple minutes, she was arching her back and bucking against me. A minute after that, she exploded against my hand, covering me with her sweet cream. Her entire body relaxed and she exhaled. A shudder visibly ran through her as she uncurled her toes.
I leaned down and kissed her again. “You O-face is absolutely gorgeous. I'm gonna need to see that again later tonight.”
“Are you sure we can't just stay in bed all day?” Sierra pouted. “I'm so comfy right now.”
<
br /> I walked into the bathroom and returned with a warm towel to wipe her off. “Come on. Let's get some breakfast in you and then hit the road.”
“Where are we going?”
“I'd like to introduce you to some people.”
“Who?”
I grinned. “My newest clients.”
+++
I'D CALLED EARLIER TO CONFIRM they were still staying at the Hilton. But I double-checked now just to make sure. I wanted to keep it a surprise so I didn't tell Sierra what was going on until we waltzed into a meeting room at the hotel and I made the introductions.
“Sierra, this is Vanessa and Lexi Holdom,” I said, gesturing to the women standing in front of us.
“Nice to meet you,” Sierra said, shaking each of their hands. “I'm Sierra Maywood.” By the look on her face, she had no clue who the Holdom sisters were.
“Sierra's my girlfriend,” I said. “Come, let's all take a seat.”
After we were seated, Vanessa asked, “So what's all this about?”
I looked at Sierra, who was just as confused as the sisters. “I have a confession to make,” I began.
The sisters arched their brows.
“I don't work at Morgan, Sloane, and Perry anymore. I was fired a week ago.”
“But we just—” Lexi began.
“—I came back in to help you two out. I didn't do it for the firm. I cared about your company's future. But apparently, that wasn't enough. My dad still wouldn't hire me back. Not because I didn't do a good job, but because of her.” I nodded to Sierra.
“What do you mean?” Vanessa asked.
“My dad thinks Sierra's not good enough for me. So he's given me an ultimatum: my job or Sierra. He won't hire me back unless I break up with her. But the thing is, I love her. More than anything. More than my job. So I chose to leave the firm. For good.”
“I see. So does that mean we'll need to find a new lawyer?” Lexi asked.
“That's why I invited you two here today,” I said. “I wanted to personally tell you that I'm starting my own firm. It's time I stepped out of my father's shadow and branched out on my own.”
Sierra gasped. I felt her fingers wrap around my arm.
“That's impressive, Asher. I'm proud of you,” Vanessa said. “But I don't understand why Lexi and I are here.”
“I would love to sign you two on as my first clients,” I said. My left hand squeezed Sierra's knees under the table. I didn't realize I'd suddenly feel so nervous. “I know, it's a huge risk, but you know my track record. And I've enlisted a few friends to come work for me. You might know them: Rachelle, the receptionist, and Mike, my long-term paralegal and friend.”
“You're ambitious, I'll give you that. But do you think you could handle the workload with such a small team?” Vanessa asked, uncertain. “We are a billion-dollar company.”
I heard Sierra gasp again beside me. She was obviously a bit overwhelmed by all of this.
“I wouldn't be here if I didn't think I could handle the job,” I said. “And if I do fuck up, you can always fire my ass. But I've been working on your case for a month now. I know the details inside and out. And I was the one who came up with the new merger plan, remember?”
“We'll think about it,” Vanessa said. “And get back to you by the end of the week.”
“Thank you, Vanessa. Lexi. You won't regret it.”
“What will your new firm be called? And where is it?”
“Morgan and Associates. At 872 Westbridge Street.”
“But that's—” Sierra began.
I nodded. “It's where Sierra and I live,” I explained. “We'll branch out once I find an office space to rent.” After a pause, I added, “One more thing. I'd like to waive all my fees for the upcoming merger, in exchange for two small favors.”
“Oh, what is it?” Lexi asked.
“One, I'd like you two to consider investing in Maywood Farms. It's a small operation run by Sierra's parents. Lots of growth potential and substantial profit margins for the right investor.”
“We don't generally invest in agriculture,” Vanessa said. “But maybe. We'll look into it. What's the second favor?”
I looked at Lexi. “Sierra's a fashion designer. I'd love it if you could grant her the opportunity to show you some of her designs and what she can do. She's incredibly talented.”
“Oh?” Lexi looked at Sierra. “Sounds good. Here's my card with my personal cell number on it. Give me a call and we can chat.”
“Wow, thank you so much!” Sierra beamed at Lexi, then at me. I squeezed her shoulder and kissed the top of her head. Sierra looked like her chest was about to explode with joy.
After the sisters had left, I turned to Sierra. “So, what do you think?”
“I think you, Asher Morgan, are a genius,” Sierra said. “A brilliant, sexy, amazing—”
I pressed a finger to Sierra's lips. “You better stop with all the praises. They're going straight to my head.” Then I pulled her in for a deep, sensual kiss.
CHAPTER 27
SIERRA
WE SPENT THE REST of the week hanging out at the Cedar River Lodge. Eating good food, drinking good wine, and sharing the most intimate stories about each other's past. It was the best vacation I’d ever had. I almost wished we didn't have to go back. But at the same time, I knew Asher needed to get his new business underway. He'd been doing most of the work from the lodge, but I knew he needed to go back to Northbridge and handle some things in person.
By the time we returned, I'd gained at least three pounds, and Callista said I looked more radiant than ever. Probably because my boyfriend insisted giving me a daily dose of orgasms every morning. After my refreshing getaway, I felt ready to conquer anything.
I called up Lexi Holdom's number and arranged for a meeting the next day. I hadn't quit my job at Delfino's yet, but I suspected I'd probably get fired soon anyway for missing so much work.
I did a lot of research about my prospective boss. Lexi Holdom had started out as a fashion designer before she even went to college. When her parents died, she helped her sister manage their cosmetics empire. Now she was turning twenty and was one of the most successful and wealthy women in the world. A tough woman to please, and more than a little intimidating but I had to try. If this worked out, doors would open for me anywhere around the world.
I scrounged together my best sketches and piled them into a portfolio. Asher told me I had nothing to worry about. That he knew Lexi from way back when and she wasn't as intimidating as people seemed to think she was. That still did not calm my nerves, though. A rash broke out along my arm before I even left the house. Thankfully it was covered by my long-sleeved blouse.
I arrived at Lexi's flagship store in downtown Northbridge fifteen minutes early. She usually didn't come here very often, since she was dealing with business in L.A., but she was here with her sister for the next week. They were ironing out the kinks in their merger contract. They'd decided to take a leap of faith and hire Asher, which thrilled me to no end. Even though he was doing this for free, it would be great publicity. And this interview opportunity with Lexi was every fledgling designer's dream come true. Not to mention, the sisters might invest in my parents' farm.
Speaking of my parents... I hadn't talked to them since the fight. I decided if things went well at this meeting, I'd at least call my mom.
Chantilly's was the quintessential modern boutique. Clean, straight lines. A large, airy space with giant ferns and shiny mannequins sporting the latest bridal fashions.
A sales associate greeted me with a cheerful wave. “Welcome to Chantilly's. How are you doing today?”
“Hi, my name's Sierra. I have a meeting with Ms. Holdom.”
“Oh, Sierra. Yes, come this way, please. I'm Charlie by the way. Short for Charlotte.”
“How long have you been working here?” I asked, trying to hide my nervousness.
“About eight months. It's a great shop. Lots of high-end clientele.”
&nbs
p; “What do you know about Lexi Holdom?” I asked. “Any tips?”
“Lexi's a great boss. Just be yourself. Be honest and modest and you'll be just fine,” Charlie said. Then in a low whisper, she added, “It's the manager, Brianna, that you have to worry about.”
“Gotcha.”
Charlie brought me 'behind the scenes' to the in-house design studio. It was cluttered with bolts of colorful, expensive fabrics, sewing machines, and patterns. Seated at the helm, clad in a designer dress was Lexi Holdom herself. She was five years younger than me and about a million times more successful. In short, Lexi was my idol.
“Sierra, you're here,” Lexi greeted. She was sitting on a stool at the end of a drafting table, perusing designs. Her lush hair fell in waves past her shoulders and she had a pencil tucked behind her ear. She also wore a pair of thick frames that hid most of her face. “Come, have a seat. Let's see what you've got.”
I sat down and opened up my portfolio. Lexi studied my sketches without a word. Occasionally a hum would escape her lips.
They sucked. I knew it, I knew it, I knew it.
I wanted to bury them and run. It wasn't too late, she hadn't seen all the atrocities yet.
“Where did you go to school?” Lexi asked.
“I'm actually starting my last year at LaSalle in September,” I squeaked out.
“This collection is not bad. Some very inspired pieces in here,” Lexi said. “Do you work right now?”
“Part-time at Delfino's. Well, before my accident anyway,” I said, nodding at my cast.
“I see. I want you to go back home and do more sketches. Practice more and show me what you come up with. When your leg is all healed, there will be a job here waiting for you.”
“Really?” I cried. I wanted to hug her, but she stopped me.
“Of course, you won't be working as a designer. You'll be on the floor, working alongside Charlie. She's an up-and-coming designer too. You two will get along well, I think.”
My face fell. But I didn't dwell on the disappointment. After all, working at Chantilly's still had way more potential than slaving away at Delfino's. Everyone had to start somewhere.
