“Why are you doing this?” he asked in a pained whisper.
“Because I need you.” I told him simply.
He groaned. “Melanie…” he said in a whisper and that broke me. There was something purely erotic to me when he said my name and he knew it. It always sounded like a prayer coming out from his lips and I didn’t care anymore, I needed to have him. I slammed my lips down on his and this time he opened for me immediately in invitation. I took it and the moment our lips met his arm snaked around me and he flipped us over. He settled himself on top of me in between my legs.
Three hours later we fell back onto the bed in exhaustion. My breathing was erratic because he didn’t let up the entire time. This is the first time he stopped since I started this. I looked over at him and watched as his chest rose and fell, his arm was thrown over his eyes and his body was slick with sweat. He was laid out in all of his naked glory and I just took the time to admire his body. I leaned over and placed a kiss to his chest and he groaned. I looked down to see him begin to harden again and I shook my head in disbelief. He removed his arm from his face and grabbed me. When he took me again this time it was slowly, unlike the last few hours which were frantic with need and desperation. I felt like he was trying to tell me everything with his body and I was too emotional to try to listen. I just let myself feel, I know it was selfish but I was too afraid. The one thing that there was no denying was that this was goodbye. When we were finished I leaned over and kissed him softly.
He was on the brink of sleep and I whispered in his ear, “goodbye Nick. I’ll always love you.” I dragged myself out of his bed and put my clothes back on. At the last minute I picked up his t-shirt and hugged it to my chest. I walked towards the door and looked back at him one last time. His eyes were open and he was watching me.
I stood there to see if he would do anything and his nostrils flared as he closed his eyes on a deep exhale. “Bye Mel.” He whispered and I felt my chest cave in, he didn’t say he loved me. I nodded and fled back to my room and got back into bed. I felt the stickiness in between my legs from the hours we just spent together. It was the only thing telling me I didn’t imagine it since his cum was currently coating me, I should wash myself but for some reason this made me feel like I didn’t walk out of that room. I could pretend I was still there lying next to him and he was holding me the way he used to, I let that thought take me to a dreamless sleep.
Lucy
Everyone returned home towards the end of winter break. I had spent some time talking to Sam about when I return to school. I’m going to wait until September when Dean is almost one. It makes sense to just wait, I’ll just be a year behind everyone else in graduating but it’s not that big of a deal to me. It would work out, and in the meantime I’ve been increasing my art portfolio. Catherine contacted me a couple of weeks ago inquiring about how things were going with the baby. I told her I was out of school until next semester and outside of mom duties I was just painting and storing them and she asked if maybe she could sell some of these pieces. I liked the idea since it would be like I’m working while I’m out of school and I could get some exposure. When I told Sam about all of this she brought up the subject of childcare. I have been thinking about this myself and Landon and I spoke a bit about it.
I told her honestly that we were both pretty freaked out by the idea of leaving him with some stranger, and she gave me the bright idea of hiring someone now. That way it would give the sitter and Dean sometime to get to know each other as well as Landon and I. They could also be a help with Max. I won’t be returning to school for another 8 months so I would be here the entire time to monitor how things are going between them. And that way if we don’t like the person we have time to find someone new in time. She told me about her aunt that helped raised her that didn’t live far from us. She was retired and bored, I was skeptical when I heard the word retired but she assured me she was in her fifties but had enough money to call it quits. She really only became a Kindergarten teacher because it was a passion of hers, she didn’t actually need the money. I agreed to discuss it with Landon and let her know.
It took some convincing but he finally relented. He just didn’t like the idea of Dean with anyone but he had to see reason. I was going to be going back to school eventually and unless he was planning on taking off next year then we would need to hire someone. The fact this is someone that raised Sam and she referred her made him more comfortable with the idea. Had I known that’s what it would’ve taken for him to relax and get accustomed to the idea I would’ve led the discussion with that. When I confirmed with Sam, she got back to me same day and said her aunt would be happy to start next week. I told her to have her come by on Landon’s first free day from classes, it was important that he was also here to meet her and he wouldn’t have had it any other way.
We were sitting in the family room playing with Dean when she arrived. I answered the door and led her into the front living room which we never used. Landon came in holding Dean and we greeted her. She didn’t look to be in her fifties, she looked much younger.
I stuck out my hand, “Hello, it’s very nice to meet you my name is Lucy thank you for coming.”
She took my hand and gave it a firm shake. “Hello dear I’m Margaret, but if you call me that I’ll take your hide. I go by Maggie.” She gave me a sweet smile that I couldn’t help but return. She turned towards Landon and extended her hand, “and you’re the poppa bear Landon I take it. My Sam didn’t lie you are an eyeful for sure.” Landon’s cheeks pinked as he shook her hand and I snickered. I believed that she was a constant in Sam’s life because Maggie’s personality reminded me so much of her. “And this must be the grandbaby Dean?” she asked referring to the baby.
Landon nodded. “It is. Do you want to sit?” he offered.
She nodded and took a seat in the single chair and we sat on the sofa. Landon cradled Dean comfortably in his arms and then turned his attention to Maggie. “Dean was born on October 30th. He’s two and a half months and he’s a pretty good baby.” He explained.
Maggie nodded. “Oh dear, I know all about him. Sam talks about him nonstop, she talks about all of you nonstop. I wish I could’ve met her little boyfriend Nick as James refers to him and Max.” my heart warmed at that, I had no idea that Sam and James spoke about us with her family as well.
I scooted forward on the couch. “Can you tell us a bit about yourself?”
“Sure. I have a degree in early childhood education. I began teaching almost straight away. I taught Kindergarten and first grade for 25 years and I only retired because there was funding issues and they needed to let go of teachers. I volunteered since most teachers although they may love it, depend on it for their livelihood. I didn’t need the money, I did it out of satisfaction but it was only fair to give up my spot so someone else can continue to do what they love and be able to support themselves.” She gave a small shrug. “Now I spend my time doing some volunteer work and such, but I haven’t really found anything for younger kids. Sam was talking about you guys and I actually came up with the idea and told her to run it by you. I would much rather be doing something to help family.”
Landon’s eyebrows went up at the declaration. He cleared his throat, “how much are you looking for as an hourly wage?” he asked.
Maggie shot Landon a disapproving glare and arched an eyebrow. “Excuse me young man? Did you not hear me say that I have more money than to do with? You are Samantha’s children and although I am not her mother, when she was younger I took on a lot of those roles for her. While I don’t see you as grandchildren…” she shuddered. “I am extremely too young for that, you’re more like nieces and nephews. I would not want a penny from you we would both be doing each other a favor. You get to know more of your extended family and you have us here as support not as employees. So if you two agree to this, know that I will respect all of your instructions and wishes in regards to taking care of Dean, however I still have a belt somewhere and I’m not afraid
to use it. And that statement right there will get you hurt.”
I couldn’t help myself I burst out laughing. Landon turned his head to me and shot me a glare and I waved him off with my hand. “Oh don’t you look at me like that Landon, you know it’s damn funny.”
“You find everything funny girl.” He said with a pout.
“Only when someone puts you in your place it’s the best!” I was still cracking up.
“Well there’s no question that you’re related to Sam. When can you start?” he asked.
I stopped laughing in shock. “Just like that?” I asked.
He shrugged then nodded. “Yea, why?” he asked confused.
I scoffed in disbelief. “Have you met you Landon? You’re a pain in the ass and you never make things easy. Can you honestly blame me for being shocked?”
He rolled his eyes. “Stop being so dramatic Lucy. Sam suggested her and she’s her family. She trusts her and I trust Sam. She acts just like Sam it’s scary and I’m kind of anxious for her to meet Nick if I’m being honest.”
I shook my head and I turned my head when I heard her laughing. When she caught my eye she shook her head. “I mean, she talks about you guys all the time and I thought she might have been exaggerating but it seems like it might all be true. I can be around whenever you need me. Lucy I know you’ll be around until school kicks off so I can come by tomorrow. Hell my schedule is free I can stick around here today if you like.”
I shrugged. “Sure, you can stay if you like and hang around until Nick gets home and I go to pick up Max so you can meet them. I can show you around if you like?”
She nodded. “Sounds like a plan.”
I stood up and began walking. “We’re going to start with this floor and stop in the kitchen I need to figure out what I’m making for dinner.” She laughed and followed behind me. We spent the rest of the day getting to know each other and she also got to know Dean. He took to her immediately which was a huge relief to me because that was another thing I was worried about. No matter how much we liked a person Dean will need to also like them. She got to meet Nick and that was better than I had expected. He fell for her almost immediately. I swear any woman who would fight with him probably turns him on. He did however inform her that he will not be the man that cheats on his woman with her family. She found it hilarious when he began talking about how much in love he and Sam were and how she was looking to leave James for him. Maggie stayed for dinner and even Max was comfortable around her, the fact that she got on with the entire family on the first day made me hopeful that we were right about things working out. Maggie’s transition was smooth. We began with her spending a few hours a day to half days. After the first couple of months I let her take over for the most part while she was here during the day and I spent my time checking in and painting. Spring came in fast and April was here before you know it. Samantha and James were traveling out here to visit with some of Samantha’s family. It was someone’s birthday and they were having a cookout. Sam invited us and we decided to go.
It was Saturday afternoon and the weather was perfect. Landon and I rode in his car with Dean and Nick drove with Max since he wanted to ride in the front. I was nervous about going and I couldn’t help but wring my hands together in anticipation. What if they didn’t like us? These people were their actual family. Sure I feel like we are too but it’s separate and different. For some reason, I began to like the idea of having an extended family and I didn’t want to get my hopes up for nothing. When we arrived I was a nervous mess and I was beginning to sweat. I was staring at the house through my window in wonder and my anxiety went up another notch.
I felt Landon grab my hands. “Lucy relax.”
I sighed and turned to face him. “I know, but I’m worried Landon. What if they don’t like us?” I asked.
He shrugged. “Then they don’t like us Lucy it won’t change anything. Neither Sam nor James are going to separate themselves from you because of it and I don’t think Maggie will either. As fond as she is for Dean, I can also see how fond she is of you.” He leaned over and kissed my temple. “Besides, anyone would be crazy not to like you babe.”
I gave him a small smile and leaned over to give him a quick peck. “Thank you Landon.”
He nodded. “Ready?” he asked. When I nodded he got out of the car and came around to my side and opened the door. After he got me out he got Deans carrier and put him inside. He grabbed my hand and picked up the carrier and we met Max and Nick in front. Max grabbed my free hand and Nick led us as we approached the front door.
He rang the bell and the door swung open. “Nick.” James greeted him and he gave him a half hug in greeting.
“’Sup James, where’s my woman?” he asked.
James rolled his eyes. “She’s in the back and keep your hands off of her.” He warned. Nick just smiled at him and James shook his head. Warning him off is like giving him a personal challenge. When will my dad ever learn?
“Hey there baby girl.” He greeted me and gave me a hug and a kiss to my hair.
I moved inside the house and he pulled Landon into a hug. “Great to see you Landon.”
“You too James.” He told him.
“Max!” he greeted once Landon cleared the door and Max jumped into his arms. He threw his arms around James neck.
“Hi James, you took foreverrrr to come visit. Did you bring me anything cool?” he asked and I laughed. Every time James and Sam came up they bought Max some new toy or game. He looked forward to it each time.
“You know I did.” He guaranteed and while keeping Max in his arms he led us out to the back of the house.
There were a lot of people hanging around and I immediately became uncomfortable. There was a pool out here and a grill. It was mainly adults but there were some kids running around as well as a few babies and people that looked around our age. I was expecting to walk in and become a spectacle. You know, when you’re the odd ball walking into a room and no one knows you so they all stop and stare to judge you. I was surprised when no one paid us much attention except for those close to us in passing. They gave us smiles or offered hellos and the pressure in my chest eased a bit. James led us over towards Sam who was standing with three other older women. As soon as Nick spotted her he turned to James.
“There goes my girl, thanks James.” He said with a smile and walked a little faster, I guess to beat him to her. He didn’t respond he only shook his head.
“Sexy Sam!” Nick shouted and she spun around. Now attention was focused on us because Nick was screaming. Leave it to him to make a scene but then again he didn’t really care about being the center of attention.
“Nicholas dear.” She said sarcastically opening up her arms for him.
“Hey lover, how you been? You still cheating on me with James?” he asked falling into her arms and lifting her off her feet in a bear hug.
“Oh goodness you big beast.” She laughed.
“I take that as a yes. I miss you future wife.” He said and spun her around. She squealed in surprise then swatted at him to let her down.
“Yes Nick, I miss you too.” She told him and kissed his cheek. He turned around to face James and grabbed Sam by the waist pulling her into his side and made a show out of placing a kiss to her temple in slow motion.
“Hi Sammy!” Max squealed and James put him down. He ran over to Sam as she broke free from Nick and he hugged her around the waist.
“Hey Max. Let me get a look at you.” She said pulling back out of the hug and looking him over. “Holy smokes when did you get so tall?” she exclaimed. It was true he seemed to have had a ridiculous growth spurt overnight. The boy is almost nine now and he was up to my breast and he got a little weight on him, but none of it was fat. He was going to be huge like the rest of them. When he released her, he went back to James and grabbed his hand. “Lucy come give me some love girl.” I gave her a big smile and went over and hugged her. “How you been?”
“I’m good and thanks
to Maggie I’m doing even better. Thank you for setting us up with her.” I told her with all the gratefulness inside of me.
“Honey you’re family, that’s what we do… there is no need to thank me.” She reassured me with a pat on my back. She turned to Landon and raised an eyebrow. “You sexy man, are you going to just stand there or are you going to come and say hi?”
He gave her a big grin and sauntered over to her. “Hi Sam.” He said giving her a hug.
She rubbed circles on his back and sighed. “Hey there football stud.” He pulled back and gripped the back of his neck. I laughed, Sam was always messing with him because he was more serious than Nick and gets embarrassed by that kind of attention. It was rare to get those kinds of reactions from Landon so we basked in it whenever we could. She rubbed her hands together, “now where is my baby?” she asked looking at the carrier in Landon’s hand.
He shrugged. “We left him home.”
Sam threw her hands on her hips. “Now don’t start with that selfish shit Landon. I haven’t seen him in a while you can have him back soon. God you’re the most overprotective stingy parent I know. Other normal people appreciate a break.” She said with an eye roll.
Keeping Her (The Lexington Series Book 2) Page 24
