by Rye Hart
“I had my arrangements, yes, but I have never fallen for any of them. She’s special. I have to see her, please. Could you help me?” If I had to get on my hands and knees and kiss her feet, I would have, but after a moment with her hand to her mouth, as she quietly contemplated, she nodded.
“Okay. I’ll help you. But if this blows up in my face, I’m kicking your ass. And if you hurt her, I’m kicking your ass. Do you feel me, money bags?”
I believed her.
“Yes, thank you. You won’t regret this.”
“I told her I was right,” she said shaking her head as she went to refill a man’s coffee. She waited on a few of her other tables, refilling drinks, grabbing extra napkins, and leaving their check, and then she returned to my table.
“What did you mean by that? That you told her you were right?”
“I don’t know if you know this or not, but Carrie doesn’t believe in miracles, magic, or dreams coming true. She’s quite the doubting Thomas. The day you walked through that door, she had just said that she needed a miracle. Do you know that you were supposed to be my table, but I conceded to her because I thought that was a sign?”
I had no idea.
“You’re right. So, will you tell me where she lives?”
“Not so fast. I don’t mind helping and giving her a call, but I’m not about to give you her name and address. I’ll call her in and tell her the boss needs to see her about quitting. She’ll come in. She won’t like leaving something unresolved. That’s when you can see her. And I suggest you don’t waste any time telling her, because she’s going to be pretty pissed off at us both to see you sitting here.” She shook her head, and with a deep breath she pulled out her phone. After a moment, she met my eyes.
“She’ll be here in twenty.” She took her pen and pad and waited for me to order. I knew by the look on her face; I shouldn’t refuse.
“Bring me the waffles, two eggs on the sunny side, and juice.”
“And some maple bacon, of course?” She lifted a brow, and I nodded. “Trust me. It’s her favorite. If she tries to run screaming, you can always wave it in front of her, and she’ll follow you right home.”
She turned to go put the order in, and I sat in the booth, tapping my foot and wiping my sweaty hands on my jeans. I hadn’t been that nervous in ages. Not for anyone or any situation, but this was my last chance. If she said no, I’d have to give it up like I’d promised Nate.
My nerves only got worse as I waited, and when Lindy brought my food, I let out a long sigh. “She should be here by now.”
“Patience, she went to her dad’s home to drop off a plant. You can wait, can’t you?”
“As long as it takes.” I unwrapped my fork from the napkin covering it and dug into my waffles. The maple bacon smelled wonderful, and as soon as I had my mouth good and full, my phone rang.
I dropped my fork and answered when I saw it was Nate. “What?”
Nate seemed out of breath. “I need you to get down here, man. Proctor is on a tear, and he wants to see you. I messed up and told him you were in town.”
“Tell him I’m not. That I left. I can’t come right now!” I ducked toward the wall next to my booth and raised my voice, and when I peeked over my shoulder, Lindy was watching.
“Don’t do this to me, man. You’re the only one he deals with for a reason.” Nate’s voice was uneasy on the other end.
“Stop being a pussy and tell him to fucking wait! I don’t have time to kiss his ass right now. She’s on her way, and I’m not leaving!” I couldn’t believe this was happening, but I wasn’t going to miss her, not even for the millions at risk. I knew I could kiss them goodbye. I slammed down the phone and let out a long breath. I couldn’t believe I’d flipped out like that, but damn. Lindy walked over and refilled my juice.
“Sounds like problems in paradise.”
“If you mean the sound of me losing millions of dollars, yes. But I’m not leaving, so please tell me you really called her.”
“I did, I promise. Are you really losing millions?”
“As we speak. It’s okay; I make them by the minute. But I’d really wanted that deal to go through. It could mean a lot of jobs for this community.”
“You know, you don’t sound so bad. I hope it works out.” She looked up as the bells chimed on the door and then she gave me a wink. “Good luck.” She nodded, and I turned to see Carrie at the door. She spotted me, but Lindy was already on her way, begging her to trust her and just to hear me out.
After some convincing, she came across the room, and I released a long-held breath, praying if she turned me down, I’d never take another.
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN - CARRIE
Chance stared at me across the room as I deliberated on fleeing or trusting my best friend. She’d never gone against my wishes before unless she’d had a good reason, and she’s always had my best interest at heart.
“What’s he doing here?” I folded my arms knowing now that the boss hadn’t called me in to talk. I’d assumed I was coming down to hear him beg me back, and instead, there was Chance to say his piece.
“Just listen to him.” She took my arm and walked me to the table. “Oh, and I was right,” she whispered in my ear.
“I don’t have anything to say.” I leaned against the booth and looked out the window.
“Sit. You know we don’t like no standing around in Angelo’s diner.” Lindy encouraged me to take a seat, which I did. “Look, he’s got your favorite. I bet he gives you a bite.” She met my eyes, and I was less than impressed.
He leaned in closer. “Please, Carrie. I tried to get back in time, but it didn’t work out.”
Lindy walked over from where she’d been listening and leaned in. “No time for small talk,” she rolled her hand as if telling him to hurry up.
The two exchanged a glance, and he nodded. I didn’t know when the two had become so chummy, but it was obvious that his charms had her mesmerized.
Without warning, Chance reached across the table and took my hand. “I love you.”
I jerked my hands away and shook my head. “Nice one. But I don’t think so.” He looked crushed, and as I saw the pain in his eyes, I couldn’t help but think he was serious.
“I know I messed up, Carrie, but I’m here, and I want you to know that you changed me. You made me want something that I haven’t wanted in ages, and that’s a real relationship.” He raked his hand through his dark hair and let out a breath. “I’m begging you for a chance. Lindy said you were heartbroken and I want you to know, I’d never do that intentionally. I thought you didn’t want more than the contract agreement.”
I didn’t even know what to say, and I wasn’t sure the words were even registering. I’d stopped hearing everything after I love you.
“I love you too.” I wasn’t sure where the words were coming from, or how I’d managed to speak them, but he practically crawled over the table to kiss me.
His lips crushed against mine and suddenly everyone in Angelo’s was clapping and cheering, including Lindy who had tears in her eyes.
I pulled away, and my cheeks reddened.
Lindy pointed to the parking lot. “Friends of yours?” she asked Chance.
I looked over to see Nate getting out of a car with a short, portly man whose face was so red that he looked like steam might billow out at any moment. They had to be looking for Chance, and as he got to his feet, the two came in.
Chance stood and greeted the angry one. “How are you, Peter?”
“Wondering why I’m down the road bothering with your deal when you’re here chatting it up with the wait staff and eating waffles.” He took out a handkerchief and wiped his brow. “What’s more important than our money, boy?”
Chance was not amused by the endearment, and he stood and squared his shoulders, looking down his nose at the man as he took my hand and pulled me up to stand beside him. “I’d like you to meet Carrie. She’s who’s more important. So, if you’ve come down here to put
me in my place or threaten to take your money and run, all I’ve got to say is get moving. But you’ll miss out on a great opportunity to help the people of this community.”
The old man looked around at the eyes on him, most who were upset that he’d killed the tender moment between the handsome stranger and their favorite waitress and his face reddened, this time with embarrassment.
“It’s nice to meet you.” I put my hand out, and he took it, offering a half smile.
“Pleasure.” He glanced toward Lindy who stood with her arms folded in front of her and a sly grin on her face.
Then the order bell rang, and Joe shouted, “Order up,” returning the energy back to normal.
The portly man extended his hand toward Chance and then glanced down to the table. “Is that waffles with maple bacon?”
Lindy stepped up with her order pad. “They’re a house favorite, can I get you some?”
The old man sat in my empty seat and rattled off his order, and Nate sat with him looking like he wasn’t sure what was happening.
Chance pulled me close and kissed me again, causing my heart to do another flip. “Why didn’t you tell me sooner?” I whispered in his ear as we took another booth.
“I didn’t think you wanted more. You’re strong, and I love the way you want to take care of your father, but I thought that was all that mattered to you, I didn’t think you’d have room for me.” He lifted his shoulder as he squeezed my hand.
“He’s getting his surgery, thanks to you. I called the specialist earlier.” I had hoped I’d be able to share that news with him, and by some miracle I had. Lindy had been right all along.
“That’s not thanks to me, Carrie. You’re the one who was willing to do what it took. But I’m glad you did. I haven’t felt like this before. I want you by my side. I want to take care of you for a change.” He stroked my hair and tucked a stray hair behind my ear. “Will you let me?”
“I’m not sure I can get used to that.” I had always been the one to wait on others and tend to them, and I hadn’t ever had anyone do that kind of thing for me. Not even my stepmother.
“Do you want to try?” He looked at me with hopeful eyes.
“Yes—”
His mouth was on mine before I had a chance to finish the word, and I couldn’t believe that this was all happening for us.
He pulled away and met my eyes. “I want to go meet your father. I’d like to ask his permission to date you.”
“I’m sure he’ll like that. You want to go right now?” I had left my father on the way over, and he’d been in good spirits, and we’d had a good conversation. “Just remember, if he asks, I met you on a girl’s weekend with Lindy. I’d rather him not know.”
“Yeah, me too.” We shared a laugh, and he called Lindy for his check then the two of us headed out to his car where we climbed in back and gave the driver directions to the home. Then as we shut the tinted glass, he pulled me close.
“God, I’ve missed you.” He buried his nose in my hair and inhaled deeply. “You’re scent, your taste.” He kissed me, planting a soft peck on my lips. “I can’t wait to be inside you again.” His words sent chills up my spine and neck and I met his eyes and placed my hand on his thigh.
“Why wait?” His eyes widened, and he grinned, and suddenly his hand was on mine, bringing it against the huge erection in his pants.
“How long will take us to get there?” he asked.
Nothing was far in Viola, Nebraska.
“Long enough if you’re into quickies,” I teased.
He took my free hand and kissed it and shook his head. “Oh, no. When I have you next, I want to take you nice and slow.” He slipped his hands between my legs and rubbed against my mound. The memory of the two of us together that last time, when I was so confused, and the misunderstanding hung over us came back to me, heating me in my most private places.
I squeezed my knees and moaned. “I can’t wait.” I kissed him, and we stroked one another a little longer until we were both turned on, and I was soaked.
By the time we prepared to meet my father, we’d calmed down. But I couldn’t wait to get him alone.
“This is where your father stays?” He asked with his brow raised. I felt a little bad knowing it wasn’t the best facility, but he stopped me and met my eyes.
“I can hire him a nurse, Carrie. I’d like for you to be able to take him home from here.” My heart raced, and I kissed his mouth. It was all I’d ever wanted, was to be able to afford care. Now, not only would he have the surgery, but he’d have care. As quickly as the thoughts sank in, I realized I couldn’t accept the offer.
“I can’t let you do that, Chance. It wouldn’t be right to ask you to do that for us.”
“You didn’t ask, and neither am I.” His eyes narrowed, and suddenly the Dark Prince stood before me. “You’ll be a good little girl and do as I say.” His lips curled in the corner as a smile spread mine and I leaned in close where no one could hear me respond.
“Yes, sir.”
I knew better than to argue with him when it came to taking care of me, and now he’d be sure to look after my father too, whether I wanted it or not, and how could I complain? I’d do anything for my dad.
“Good girl,” he whispered in my ear, and as the chills spread across my flesh, we hurried down the hallway to my father’s room and knocked on his door. And his face lit with surprise as I pushed the door open and peeked inside.
The blush rushed to my cheeks. I’d never brought anyone to meet my father before, especially someone I cared so much about. But then again, I’d never been in love until now.
CHAPTER NINETEEN - CHANCE
I’d never asked a man for permission to date his daughter, and the more I thought about it, as we walked toward her father’s door, I’d only taken the time to meet a few.
Carrie had awakened a part of me though, a part that wanted to do things right. I wanted to take care of her and make sure that she never wanted for anything. I had the money to do it too. All that time I’d brought those women to my castle, it was on my terms. My way. But it wasn’t about my needs anymore. She’d taught me that.
We stopped outside a door in the hall of the assisted living home, and Carrie knocked. “Hey, Daddy?” She pushed the door open, and I was surprised to find the man on the other side of the door had her eyes. He was also much younger than I’d expected. He wasn’t in the home for his age, though, and by the gray color of his pallid skin, I could tell he needed care.
“What’s happening, Ladybug?” Her father’s eyes lit up as I entered behind her. “To what do I owe two visits in such a short morning?” He raised his bed higher to a sitting position.
“Daddy, I wanted you to meet Chance.”
Her eyes met mine with a wide, blank look and I realized she still didn’t know my last name. “Chance Stevens,” I said, extending my hand.
“This is my father, Brent Chase.”
He gripped my hand with all his strength, and he had a pretty mean grip for someone who seemed so frail. “Pleasure to meet you, sir. Are you a doctor?” Her father looked back and forth at us with narrowed eyes and a lot of uncertainty in his voice.
“No, Daddy. Chance and I are dating.” She glanced at me as if to say now’s your chance.
“I wanted to meet you to ask if I may have permission to date your daughter, actually.”
“We met while Lindy and I were away.” She pulled her lips into a tight line as if she hated lying to father, but truly it was best.
“Well, that’s wonderful, and I’m sure if my daughter sees you’re worthy, then you’re all right with me.” He offered his hand again, and we shook as if making a bargain.
“He’s very worthy, Daddy.” She sat beside her father and took his hand. “He’s opening a business here in town that will employ hundreds of people.”
“That’s wonderful, and just what this town needs. We’ve grown a lot lately. This facility is one of the newer additions.” I looked around a
t his room, and while it was a nice facility, it just seemed a bit depressing.
“You know, Mr. Chase, I have a home in New York, and well, Carrie told me a little about your condition, and I’d like to offer you a place to stay there, closer to the city where you could get better care.”
“And I talked to the doctor; the procedure is being arranged.” Carrie smiled proudly.
“But that’s so much money. We talked about that, Carrie.” She looked at me, putting her head down, her face bright with a stain of blush.
She gave him a pleading look. “I’ve got the money, Daddy. It’s already scheduled.”
He shook his head, and his face pinched with worry. “But how? You didn’t sell the house, did you?”
“No, Daddy.” I knew she couldn’t tell her father that she’d allowed herself to be bought.
I had to speak up. “I put up the money, sir.”
His eyes narrowed. “That’s awful generous for someone we barely know. That’s a lot of money.” He stared down at my shoes and back up as if he were trying to figure me out. I wondered if he thought that his daughter had gotten into something bad, mixed up with a drug lord or something, so I thought it best to let him know more about me.
“It’s nothing, really. I wanted to do it. You see, I’ve been rather fortunate in life and I’ve worked hard. I own a multi-million-dollar company, and I’m an investor in a few others. My net worth is just over five billion dollars, so it would mean the world to be able to help you and your daughter.”
Her father wiped his brow and then brought his hand to his mouth. “I don’t know what to say.”
It was a reaction that I’d gotten used to. Not many people knew how to react to the amount of money I was worth. It had always set their brains into overdrive as they thought of all the things they could do with my money.
“It’s very generous, but I couldn’t—”
“It’s already done. And I’d like to talk to you about that move. I think I could make your recovery much more comfortable, and well, quite honestly, I’d prefer to have Carrie closer to me and where I live.”
