by Monica James
My wild days are over and now I’m just boring Dr. Dixon Mathews—psychiatrist, lecturer, and lover.
After that day on the beach, things between Maddy and I changed dramatically. We agreed to take things slow, but after the first course I decided to skip mains and head straight for dessert—I’m sure you can guess what my dessert consisted of. I agreed to take things slow, but I’m not a damn saint, and it appears neither was Maddy.
She moved in with me and my dad a month later.
We easily fell into a simple routine. She loves her job at New York Presbyterian, and I can finally say I’ve become the psychiatrist who was worthy of winning the Gerald Harriet Award. The shard sits on my mantel, a reminder of what I almost lost.
My life could have turned out so differently, and although I’ve endured some hardships I wish to never experience again, I’ve come to realize that I am the hero of this story and I’m finally the good guy—I’m Madison’s good guy.
As they say, behind every great man lies an even greater woman, or, in Madison’s case, the only woman I’ll love for the rest of my life.
“Oh for fuck’s sake, Dix, I can hear your balls rolling around in Cherry Pie’s purse upstairs,” Hunter quips, leaning against the mantel. He’s privy to my obvious, soppy thoughts, but I don’t care.
“She can do whatever she likes with my balls,” I retort with a wink. “Come to think of it…”
Hunter swiftly places his hands over his ears while screaming, “I can’t hear you!”
His obsession with Mary, who still hates his guts, has turned him into a monk. He’s just waiting for her to turn around and see what a great guy he is. See that he’s changed. It’s yet to happen, but if Madison saw something in me that I didn’t, then there’s hope for my friend.
My father, who is sitting in front of the TV, snorts.
Maddy’s Italian has improved vastly, thanks to my dad and his selective hearing. At times, he acknowledges her talking to him in English, but mostly he won’t reply until she pulls out her little dictionary and repeats herself in his native tongue. He may be mute most of the time, but he conveys enough cheek in his silence.
All in all, it’s just a typical day in the Mathews’ household.
Finch returns with a freshly diapered Simone, who is sucking away on a bottle. The dad look suits him, and I wonder if it’ll suit me too.
When the enchanting laughs of the girls trail down the stairs, my heart skips a beat. Heidi, Mary, and Madison have formed a little threesome, just like Finch, Hunter and I. If Mary didn’t hate Hunter’s guts, we could do the whole triple dating thing, but I see that ending with Hunter paying a trip to the Emergency Room. He doesn’t allow her aloofness to deter him, and when she steps into the living room, his entire face lights up as he wipes his sweaty palms on his jeans. It’s a look I know well, because I’m wearing the same one.
Madison meets my eyes from across the room, smiling broadly as she shyly tucks a soft piece of hair behind her ear. She knows I am currently undressing her in my mind, and wondering what she’s wearing underneath that tight black dress. Luckily for me, I plan on finding out tonight.
Heidi and Gabriella walk over to Finch, giving Daddy a hug goodbye, which leaves Hunter and I staring like love-struck fools. A poised grin is plastered on Maddy’s face the entire time she walks over to me, knowing what her long legs and pushed-up breasts are doing to me.
Her confidence is infectious. “One cocktail and then you’re coming home.” When she tweaks a brow at my bossiness, I add in her ear, “Because then I plan on giving you your own special cock…tail.”
Her breath catches and she nods eagerly. “I’ll take it straight up.” Her bold comment has me wheezing like an emphysemic old man. God, I love this woman.
“C’mon, love birds,” Mary groans, latching onto Maddy. “Enough with the PDA.”
Her comment just confirms what a perfect match for Hunter she really is. “Hi, Mary,” he nervously says. “You look nice.” I bite my lip to stop my cackle.
She gives him a stiff, upper-lip smile, which looks like a fuck you, but Hunter looks to be over the moon with the acknowledgment.
“All right, girls, let’s go.” Mary yanks on Maddy’s forearm, but I scoop her up and kiss her quickly.
Well, it was meant to be quick, but the moment I sip on her sweetness, it’s hard to let go. I feel dizzy, completely intoxicated with her, and I revel in the feeling of madness. Only when Mary clears her throat loudly do I slow down my assault and nip her bottom lip before pulling away.
Madison’s flushed cheeks have me thinking of something else bearing a similar pink tinge, and when she casts her gaze downward, I know she knows it too.
This woman makes me insatiable and I love it. I love her.
“Have a good night, angelo. I love you,” I say, stroking the length of her neck, brushing my fingers over my mother’s chain, which she never removes.
I watch with envy as goose bumps lick every inch of her pale, supple skin. “I love you, too. Go Yankees,” she cheers a second later, waving invisible pompoms.
Both Mary and Maddy turn to leave, while Hunter and I not so discreetly check out their asses. Some things never change. Madison kisses my father on the head before her happy chatter follows her out the door.
Hunter and I casually walk over to the window and I draw back the curtain, watching Maddy stroll to my BMW while chatting merrily to her friends. She’s come a long way and she deserves this happiness because she too has finally grown into the woman she’s always wanted to become.
So this is what my Friday nights entail. The girls going out and letting their hair down while the boys stay home, drink beer, eat pizza, look after the kids, and watch the game. Nothing has felt more perfect.
Well, that isn’t entirely true.
I dreamily toy with the small velvet box which currently sits in my pocket. Although it weighs close to nothing, symbolically, it weighs a thousand pounds.
“So you’re really going through with it?” Hunter asks, his eyes never veering away from the scene in front of us.
My chest expands in pride, as I want nothing more. “Yeah, man. I am.”
Hunter laughs happily, slapping me on the arm. “I think you mean I do.”
We only step away from the window when the taillights of my car fade into the night. Yup, we’re both completely and utterly pussy-whipped and proud of it.
As we sit watching the Yankees, I can’t help but ponder how my life has changed. Once upon a time there lived a selfish, lonely man-whore with no regard for anyone other than himself. The man-whore took up with many witches, never believing that true love really existed. But one day in a kingdom far, far away, that man-whore soon met a princess, one who showed him that underneath his beastly exterior…he was a prince after all.
Be all my sins remembered.
Hamlet, William Shakespeare.
Letter from Monica
Thank you, merci, danke, toda, grazie, obrigado, salamat po, and arigato! No matter what language, I wanted to thank you so very much for reading Wicked Dix.
I am honestly so blessed to have incredible readers such as yourself, welcome me and my characters into your heart and home. There are so many amazing components to writing, and one of my most favourite parts is to read what YOU the reader thought. I’m constantly wondering if you laughed, cried, swooned, and let’s not forget, almost dropped the book and screamed NO HE DIDN’T when I did. If you loved Dixon and his sinful gang, I would absolutely love to hear from you. Sharing is caring as they say, so I would be so very thankful if you could take a few moments and leave a short review. And just between you and me, so would Dr. Mathews.
To keep in the loop with the latest news on my releases and not miss an iota of juicy goss, just click on the link below to sign up for my new releases mailing list:
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Thank you for reading the A Hard Love Romance series.
All my love,
Monica James x
@monicajames81
authormonicajames
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Dirty Dix
A HARD LOVE ROMANCE BOOK 1
I knew she was bad news when she walked into my office, but I just couldn’t help myself…
Filthy, sexy and full of surprises, Juliet is so hot she has me on fire. I’ve met my match and I can’t help going back for more.
Then there’s Madison… she’s sweet, funny and awakens in me a fierce need to protect her.
But I don’t do relationships. I don’t usually do the same woman twice.
Juliet and Madison: Two very different women have got me completely hooked.
Who will I choose?
I know who I should choose, but I never said I was the hero of this story, or even the good guy. And besides, who wants to be good, when it feels so good being bad?
My tale isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you’re game, strap yourself in and expect the unexpected. But don’t say I didn’t warn you…
Achingly sexy and highly addictive, Dirty Dix, the first in the Hard Love Romance series will have you hooked.
BUY NOW!
Also By Monica James
A Hard Love Romance Series
Dirty Dix
Wicked Dix
I Surrender Series
I Surrender
Surrender to Me
Surrendered
White
Something Like Normal Series
Something Like Normal
Something Like Redemption
Something Like Love
Acknowledgments
As I write this, I’m frantically trying to remember all the wonderful people who held my hand on this crazy journey. If I forget anyone, I’m sorry! I truly am surrounded by so many wonderful, incredible people.
My brilliant agent, Madeleine Milburn. You believed in me from the very beginning and I cannot thank you enough for your constant support, advice, and encouragement. You really are the best agent EVER.
The girls at the Madeleine Milburn Literary, TV & Film Agency, Cara and Therese, you two are bloody amazing! Thank you so much for the endless advice and help. I appreciate it so much.
My exceptionally talented and amazing publishers, Bookouture. Thank you so much for holding my hand. Oliver, thank you for the reassurance, Rhian, your editing is the BOMB, and Claire Bord, I’ve never met someone as kind, driven, and understanding as you. Thank you so much for believing in me, and thank you for dealing with my mini freak-outs and relentless OCD!
Kim Nash, you’re simply wonderful. Thank you for your endless support and being on call 24/7! I’m sorry for the early morning messages!
My fellow authors and friends at Bookouture – I’m honoured to be a part of this team #teambookouture. Holly Martin – thank you for the laughs, and for being there constantly.
My go-to word girl aka editing guru, Toni Rakestraw – I’ve said it once, but I’ll say it again, I LOVE YOU! Nothing is ever too much for you.
Tina Gephart – without you, it’s safe to say I’d be an utter mess. Your advice, reassurance, and just being damn incredible, has pulled me through some tough times and I truly am so grateful to have you in my life. You are a true friend, and I freaking adore you! Duce forever, baby!
Rachel Brookes – there really aren’t enough words to express how much I adore you. This industry is a lonely one, but with you by my side, I never feel alone. Your friendship means the world to me and I can’t wait for #ontheroadwithrachelandmonica
Heidi McLaughlin – I’m pretty sure it was love at first sight when we met LOL! You get me and for that, I freaking love you! Our chats are what get me through the day. Thank you for being a wonderful friend, and for making me laugh – daily!
Kendall Ryan – I love you, lady!
My copter triplets – Rachel Brookes, Anna Smith, and Kell Donaldson – I love you girls! Thanks for the laughs, and for the hot boy talk ... Jared, Bradley, and Henry!
My husband, Daniel – I love you so very much. Thank you for being so patient with me. And thank you for coming to every single signing event with me – you’re the best assistant (and husband) ever!
Fran – my little angry ant. I admire your strength and tenacity.
Louise Mercer – my beautiful angel. You are my most treasured friend. We have been through so much together and it’s been a crazy journey. Thank you for being my forever light.
Gemma Cawley – my bff! Thank you for being my biggest cheerleader and supporter. I can’t wait until we open Cat Island! *insert cat mermaid scream*
Everyone who helped spread the love and word about Book 1 in the series: Natasha is a Book Junkie, Maryse’s Book Blog, Aestas Book Blog, Angie’s Dreamy Reads, TotallyBooked Blog, All Is Read, Talkbooks, Emm at Emm Books, AC BookBlog, WickedGoodReads, Jo at CometBabesBooks, Monique Tinline at Hooked on Books, Lisa Pantano Kane at Three Chicks and their Books, Jesey Newman at Schmexy Girl Book Blog, Glass Paper Ink, Lisa Sleiman at The Literary Gossip, Two Book Pushers, Maria’s Book Blog, Lisa Edward, Penny Rudge, Erin Daniels, Ariana McWilliams, Marisa-Rose Shor, Ashley Martinez, Natasha Gentile, Christa Cervone, Jelena Bosh, Cristina Arpin, Kellie Harrower, Sonia Care, Nina Levine, Sandy Borrero, Steve Genis, Tania Cooper, Jacinta Maree, Sali Benbow-Powers, Kylie Scott, Jaz Menta, Tina Landrum, Amy, Lauren, Donna Cooksley Sanderson, Kathy-Jo Reinhart, Justine Elvira, CJ Roberts, Amanda Pacheco, Kirsty E Moseley, Bianca Smith, Tammy McGowan, Jay, McLean, Catherine Brown, Karli Roderick, Yvonne McBroom, Vicki Ballanytne, Jane Ashton, Romance Writers of Australia, Bradley Cooper, Jared Leto, Zac Efron, I cannot thank you enough for everything.
My beautiful family – Mum, Papa, Fran, Matt, Samantha, Amelia, Gayle, Peter, Luke, Leah, Shirley, Michael, Rob, Elisa, Evan, Alex, Francesca, and my aunties, uncles, and cousins – I am the luckiest person alive to know each and every one of you. You brighten up my world in ways I honestly cannot express. Samantha and Amelia – I love you both so very much.
My fur babies – mamma loves you so much! Buckwheat, RIP Gertrude. Hello Adele. Dacca, I will always protect you from the big bad Bellie. Mitch, refer to Dacca’s comment. Jag, you’re a wombat in disguise. Bellie, you’re a devil in disguise. And Ninja, thanks for watching over me.
To anyone I have missed, I’m sorry! It wasn’t intentional! So to make amends, this part is for you! Please insert name for your personalised acknowledgment.
Monica James thanks _________________________ so very much! She’s owes you a coffee and a billion trillion hugs.
Love M x
Last but certainly not least, I want to thank YOU! Thank you for welcoming me into your hearts and homes. My readers are the BEST readers in this entire universe! Love you all!
Published by Bookouture - an imprint of StoryFire Ltd.
23 Sussex Road, Ickenham, UB10 8PN, United Kingdom
www.bookouture.com
Copyright © Monica James 2016
Monica James has asserted her right to be identified as the author of this work.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publishers.
This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, organizations, places and events other than those clearly in the public domain, are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or locales is entirely coincidental.
ISBN: 978-1-910751-78-7
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