by E. L. Todd
He stared at her for a while before he finally shook his head, embarrassment flooding his cheeks.
Sydney leaned back over him. Before her lips pressed against him, he tensed up, anticipating the wetness of her mouth. She felt guilty because they hadn’t fooled around in days. The sexual frustration oozed out of him. He never said anything but she knew he was horny as hell.
When her lips surrounded him, he gasped again, breathing like he just ran a marathon. His hand immediately fisted her hair and his hips started to rock into her gently. His cock felt harder than it ever had as she swirled her tongue around the tip then down the shaft. Every time she took him entirely down her throat, he shook. Her hair was sprawled across his stomach and hips, and he fisted it gently. She knew he loved her hair, the color and the texture. People thought she styled it to have that beach wave to it, but she never did anything. It was natural.
When his hips started to convulse, she knew she was on the verge of having an orgasm. They had just begun and he already met his threshold. That didn’t surprise her since their sex life had been dormant for so long. She pulled him out of her mouth then rubbed her chest against him, pressing her tits together.
Coen bit his lip while he watched her. His free hand clenched the bed sheets, trying to process all the pleasure circulating in his veins.
She returned her lips to him and shoved him to the back of her throat, knowing he was going to come any second. His breathing was deep and raspy, forced from his lips against his restraint. He laid his head back and closed his eyes. When his dick twitched, she knew the moment had arrived. He moaned loudly, gently thrusting himself inside of her as he shot out with a rapid explosion. She continued to go down on him as he released, waiting until he was completely finished before she pulled away.
He ran his hands through his hair and kept his eyes closed, his chest still rising and falling rapidly. He was a broken mess, pieces shattered across the bed. His explosion had sucked the life force out of him. Now he just tried to come down from his high. She crawled off of him then pulled the blankets back up, tucking him in.
“Bed rest,” she said firmly.
He opened his eyes and looked at her. “That felt so good.”
“Well, I’ve had a lot of practice.”
He smiled at her. “I’m sorry I couldn’t last longer.”
She kissed him on the forehead. “It’s okay. I know I haven’t been satisfying you lately.”
“Don’t apologize,” he said quickly.
“I’ll make it up to you.” She glanced at his chest then back at him.
“You don’t owe me anything, baby.”
She ran her fingers through his hair. “Get some sleep.”
“That’s all I’ve been doing.”
“Get more of it.”
“Let’s take a shower. There’s something I want to show you.”
She raised an eyebrow. “What?”
“You’ll see.”
“Well, it will have to wait. You need to rest.”
He rolled his eyes. “I’m fine.”
“If you want another blow job, you are staying right here.”
He growled. “Well, I’ll have to miss out then. Come on. Let’s take a shower.”
“I want you to get better,” she said as she touched his hand.
“Baby, I am better. Now let’s go.”
She sighed. “Okay.”
“And I still expect that blow job.”
She rubbed her nose against his. “I’ll give you as many as you want.”
“Can I get that in writing?”
She laughed. “My word isn’t good enough?”
“You’re a woman—of course not.”
“Well, you’ll just have to trust me.”
“I will.” He pulled the blankets back then rose to his feet. “Let’s take a shower.”
“Where are we going?”
“You’ll see when we get there.”
They both showered and got ready. Coen pulled out an outfit and told her to wear it. Normally she wore shorts and a small top, but he wanted her to wear jeans and a nice blouse. She assumed they were going to a nice dinner. She did as he asked and put it on. Coen wore black slacks and a collared shirt. He looked handsome like he always did. He wrapped a tie around his neck then fixed it.
“You look so sexy,” she said as she wrapped her arms around his waist.
“Thank you,” he said as he rubbed his nose against hers. “But I don’t compete with you.” He kissed her on the forehead then walked to the front door. “Let’s go.”
She followed him out the door then into the car. He started the engine and they pulled onto the dirt road. They didn’t head to the coast where all the shopping and restaurants were. Instead, he drove further into the island, away from the tourist spots. She wasn’t sure where they were going. When he pulled onto a street in a nice neighborhood, two story houses with large yards, she was even more confused.
“Where are we going?”
He pulled over and parked in front of a large white house. There were two wreaths on the door and Christmas lights decorated the outside. A large tree stood in the front yard, stretching high into the sky. It was on a slight rise and the mountains could be seen in the background.
“What is this?” she asked.
“My parents’ house.”
She looked at him. “Why are we here?”
“To celebrate Thanksgiving.”
“But that was days ago.”
“Yeah, my parents decided to have it today instead.”
“Why?”
“So you could join us.”
She felt her heart flutter. “What? You asked them to do that?”
He smiled. “No. They offered. They want you to be here.”
“Did you tell them about…”
“Yes. But I left the major things out. They want you to spend the holiday with us, Syd. They are excited to meet you.”
She looked out the window and stared at the house. She saw people inside, drinking from their wine glasses as they stood around the tree. Tears formed under her eyes. “I don’t know what to say.”
“Let’s just go inside.”
“I can’t believe you did this for me.”
“My family already loves you, Syd. I didn’t do this—they did.”
“Why?”
“They know I’m madly in love with you.”
“They still want me here even after you told them about my family?”
He ran his fingers through her hair. “They love you even more, baby.”
A tear fell from her eye and she wiped it away. “That’s so sweet of them.”
“Now let’s go get our grub on,” he said as he opened the door. He helped her down then walked her to the front door, holding her hand.
“Wait.” She grabbed the engagement ring to take it off.
“No,” he said, steadying her hand. “Leave it.”
“But they’ll see it.”
“Don’t worry about it. Just leave it.”
She left the ring on her finger, unsure how this was going to work. If his family saw her wear his grandmother’s ring, wouldn’t they ask questions or assume they were really engaged? “I hope they like me,” she blurted.
“They will. It’s impossible not to.” He walked to the door then knocked on it. The sound of merry voices could be heard from the outside. A high-pitched laughter was infectious enough to make Sydney smile. She tried to recall a time when her mother laughed after she remarried. She couldn’t think of a single instance.
A tall brunette opened the door, smiling at them brightly. Her hair was short, not even reaching her ears, but she looked elegant and beautiful. Her eyes were blue just like Coen’s. There was no doubt that this was his mother. The woman glanced at Coen but her eyes were focused on Sydney.
“Sydney!” she said in delight. She walked through the door and wrapped her arms around Sydney, holding her tightly. “I’m so glad you’re here. Thank you for co
ming.”
Sydney returned her embrace, warmth radiating from her body. “Thank you for having me.”
She pulled away. “And you’re so beautiful. Coen never lies.”
She blushed. “Thank you.”
“Come, come,” she said as she grabbed her hand and led her inside.
When they walked through the door, other family members rose from their seats and approached them. A middle aged man smiled at Sydney then hugged her as well. Judging by his chiseled jaw and height, he was Coen’s father.
“I’m Nathan,” he said as he pulled away. “I’m very delighted to meet you.”
“It’s nice to meet you too,” she said politely.
“And I’m Vivian,” his mother said quickly. “Sorry. I forgot to mention that.”
“It’s okay,” Sydney said with a smile.
“And I’m Coen’s younger, but much more attractive brother,” a guy said as he hugged her. She was startled by the touch. Every person hugged her. No one shook her hand. The affection was welcome, but unexpected. “So, let me know if you want to upgrade.”
She laughed. “I’m very happy with what I have.”
Coen wrapped his arm around her waist. “Sorry, bro. She doesn’t have a sister.”
“Damn,” he said.
“His name is Jordan,” Coen added. He turned to an older couple. She assumed they were his grandparents. “This is my maternal grandmother, Lori, and my grandfather, Jeremy.” They both hugged her, making Sydney feel cherished.
“Stacy!”
She looked up and saw his uncle.
“I’m just kidding, Sydney.” He hugged her too. “Thanks for coming.”
“Thank you, Dr. Goldstein.”
“Call me Gilbert.”
Vivian clapped her hands together. “Dinner is ready. I hope your stomachs are empty.”
“I’m starving,” Sydney blurted.
Coen looked at his mother. “This one can eat more than I can.”
“Good,” she said. “I cooked way too much.”
They walked into the dining area, which had a dark wooden table with a red table cloth. Most of the food was already sitting on the surface. They had gold silverware and matching napkins. Coen pulled out her chair and helped her sit down. When she glanced up, all the family members smiled at Coen, obviously impressed by his manners. When he sat beside her, he rested his hand on her thigh.
Lori passed the stuffing to Sydney. “So you are studying marine biology like Coen?” she asked.
“Yes,” Sydney answered. “It’s definitely my passion.”
“She’s one of the smartest undergraduates I’ve ever had,” his uncle said as he scooped the cranberry sauce onto his turkey.
Sydney’s cheeks turned red.
“She gets a perfect score on every test,” Coen said with a smile.
His grandfather laughed. “That must be convenient to cheat off your girlfriend.”
Coen laughed. “It’s definitely a plus.”
“His grade did skyrocket after he started talking to Sydney,” his father said.
“Well, at least you know they were actually studying,” Dr. Goldstein said with a laugh.
Sydney laughed, overcome by the merriment.
His mother looked at her. “What do you want to pursue?”
“I was hoping to get my PhD.”
“Another crazy,” his uncle said as he took a bite.
Sydney laughed. “I know Coen wouldn’t disagree.”
He shrugged. “I’m just with you because of your looks.”
“Do you want to teach at a university?’ his mother asked.
“Yes. And do research,” Sydney said. She ate her vegetables and rolls and loved the taste. No one made a comment about her eating choice. She didn’t reach for the ham or the turkey but no one seemed to notice. Usually, she was berated for being a vegetarian.
His family joked with each other and discussed their lives. His grandparents were retired from the post office. That’s where they met fifty years ago. His father worked in construction and just got a contract for a new hotel on the other side of the island. His mother was a housewife. When she remembered that Coen’s parents almost got divorced, she found that hard to believe. They seemed so happy. No one mentioned his sister who passed away. She did notice pictures of her everywhere, however. It made her happy to know that they didn’t give into the depression of their past, but decided to be merry while always remembering her.
Sydney ate more than she should. By the time she was done, her stomach started to cramp. Thankfully, her shirt was a little loose to hide her bulging stomach. Coen ate two servings of food because he was a garbage disposal like that. When he coughed on his food, he touched his chest. He tried to act like everything was fine but she knew he was in serious pain. The bat broke in half when it collided with this chest. How could he not be in agonizing pain? Every time she thought of it, she realized she wasn’t good enough for him. His family was nothing but respectful toward her. In fact, they treated her like she was already family. She never felt more loved in her life, like she belonged somewhere. It was enough to bring tears to her eyes, but she held them back.
“Now we say what we’re thankful for,” his mother said from the head of the table. Sydney assumed this was a tradition because no one questioned her words. “I’m thankful for having such a wonderful and beautiful family.” She turned to Sydney. “And having one more.” Sydney smiled, unsure what to say.
His father wiped his mouth with a napkin. “I’m thankful that I don’t have to do the dishes.”
Everyone laughed and Vivian narrowed her eyes at him playfully.
“What are you thankful for, Jordan?” his mother asked.
“The beautiful beach.” His mother smiled. “There are so many hot chicks down there.”
His grandpa laughed and clapped him on the shoulder. “That’s why I’m there every day.”
Vivian rolled her eyes. “My boys are something else.”
His grandpa nodded. “I’m thankful for the same thing.”
Lori hit him playfully. “Don’t be an old pervert.”
“Too late.”
“I know where I get it from,” Jordan said with a laugh.
Lori shook her head. “Well, I’m thankful for the beautiful sunrise that I see every morning from my bedroom window.”
Jordan rolled his eyes. “That’s boring, Grandma.”
Vivian looked at Gilbert. “And what are you thankful for, Brother?”
He thought for a moment before he spoke. “For all the living things in this world. There is more beauty in a single shell than all the skyscrapers of this country.”
Sydney nodded, understanding his meaning.
Coen looked at his family. “I’m thankful for the beautiful woman in my life.” He leaned in and kissed her on the cheek. “For having her love.” His brother rolled his eyes and his grandmother made an awe sound. “And I’m thankful I’m passing my classes this semester.”
His mother laughed. “I’m glad our money isn’t being wasted.” She looked at Sydney. “And what are you thankful for, dear?”
She twisted her hands in her lap, feeling suddenly nervous. “For the best Thanksgiving I’ve ever had.”
Vivian’s eyes softened when she listened to her. Even Jordan seemed touched by her words. Coen looked at her.
“This is my best Thanksgiving too.”
“Really?”
He nodded.
Vivian rose from her seat. “It’s time to get the dishes started.”
All the men flew from their chairs and dashed to the living room.
Sydney laughed even though she knew she shouldn’t. Only Coen remained behind. They both gathered the plates and helped his mother clean the dishes, stuffing them into the dishwasher and covering the leftover food for days to come. When they were finished, they went into the living room and played board games. Everyone was involved and no one refused to sit out. Coen’s family was competitive but not in a
n aggressive way. When Sydney won every game, they all seemed truly impressed.
“Syd’s a genius,” Coen explained.
His grandpa pointed at her. “Keep her around, boy. She’ll be great to have for bingo at the senior citizen hall.”
He laughed. “Thanks for the advice.”
When they were tired of playing board games, they sat on the couch and ate cookies and pie, drinking an assortment of wine. The television was on so everyone watched it. Sydney curled up next to Coen and leaned against his body. She wasn’t uncomfortable being affectionate in front of his family. She felt like she was already a member of it.
When it got late, everyone said their goodbyes. His mother hugged Sydney tightly then kissed her on the cheek. “Thank you so much for coming.”
“Thank you for having me. Everything was great.”
“You’re very welcome, dear.”
Jordan hugged her. “Let me know if you have any cute friends that like younger guys.”
She laughed. “I’ll see what I can do.”
Coen waved to everyone then walked Sydney to the car, opening the door for her. When they pulled away from the house, she stared at it until it was no longer in sight. That was the best holiday she ever had, other than the ones she spent alone at the shack. His family was so sweet and amazing, treating her like they loved her. When her family came, they treated Coen like he was garbage on the street. The memory of their visit still hung heavy on her heart. Coen had put up with so much bullshit for her. It was unbelievable. She didn’t feel worthy of him. In fact, she didn’t deserve him at all. She had nothing to offer him except baggage and emotional problems for years to come.
They were silent on the drive home. Sydney felt the tears bubble under her eyes when she realized what she had to do. She wasn’t being fair to Coen. He deserved something more than her. When he parked the car, she didn’t even realize they were home, her mind elsewhere. When they got out and walked back the house, she stopped before they reached the steps.
“Thank you for taking me to your Thanksgiving,” she said quietly.
“Thank you for coming.”
A tear fell down her cheek. “I can’t do this anymore, Coen.”
He stared at her, saying nothing for a long time. His eyes lingered on the tear sticking to her cheek until it dripped from her chin. “What does that mean?”
