by T L Osborn
Simon
“Daddy, read it again,” Charlotte demands, as I finish Beauty and the Beast for the second time.
I sigh. I really have to do some work tonight, but as I glance down at her, I realise this is where I need to be for a change. “All right, princess. I’ll read it again.”
She squeals with delight, squeezing her soft toy penguin. I snuggle her next to me as I begin to read the story over, only this time, by the time I’m halfway through, I hear the distinct sound of her light snoring against my chest.
I close the book, rolling her off me, gently lying her down and leaning down to kiss her forehead. I creep out of her room and head to my office, wanting to finish the work Aria and I started today. I pour myself a whiskey then sit down at my desk, and as I do, I see my phone light up with a message from Aria.
Aria: Hi, I wanted to talk to you about my actions today. I’m so sorry I ran out on you, but I wanted you to know it wasn’t you. I ran, because I’m ashamed, selfish, and such a bitch for taking you away from Charlotte. I was too busy thinking about myself.
I chuckle. I was going to ask her what was wrong later tonight. I wondered the whole way home what I’d done to make her run, but I’m surprised to get her text message tonight.
Me: Honey, don’t worry. You did no such thing, taking me away from Charlotte. I understand how you feel, and I love that you respect my daughter. But understand this. I chose to work, I chose to spend the afternoon drowning in your hot, sexy body, and believe me, I was disappointed when I turned around and you’d gone. But you’re not selfish, nor should you be ashamed, and you are not a bitch.
I hit send and wait for her response.
Aria: I’m still sorry. You’re sweet for saying those things about me. And I do get that you chose to work, but still, I let it continue. I should’ve stopped it, but honestly, I didn’t want to.
Me: Stop arguing. Aria, I accept your apology. I didn’t want to stop either. I swear I’m going to find a way for us to be alone, just you and me. I promise, this time, we’ll have no interruptions.
I pick up my whiskey and take a sip.
Aria: Just you and me? What about Charlotte? Simon, I don’t want her excluded from us.
Me: Honey, she will not be excluded from us. I promise.
Aria: Okay, I don’t want her feeling left out.
Me: I believe, with you around, she’ll never be left out.
Aria: She never will. I’m off to bed now. I’ll see you on Monday.
Me: Sleep well, beautiful. XX See you Monday.
I place my phone down. I’ll make our first alone date the best one she’s ever had. I sit and make some notes about food, drink, music, and a load of other things I think she’ll like, or at least things I like, so as a way we can get to know each other.
I want more than just sex with Aria. Especially after all her text messages about caring for my daughter and wanting her part of our dates.
Aria
I wake to someone shaking me. “Aria, get up.”
I hear Toby, but I can’t answer. I feel like crap. “I-I can’t. My head is pounding, and my throat is raw. I’ve been coughing all night.” I glance at the clock; my alarm is about to go off. I have to get ready for work.
“You’re going to be late for work. Get the hell up, girl.” He shakes me again, and I roll over to face him.
“Ugh!” I breathe out.
“You don’t look well.” He leans down to look at me closer.
“I don’t feel it, either. I knew I was coming down with something yesterday. My head was pounding all day.” All I want to do is sleep.
“You’re not going in today.” He frowns and tucks the blankets around me.
“I can’t stay home. Simon needs me.”
“Bullshit, he doesn’t need you.”
“He does, Tob. I don’t think that man knows how to run his day without me.”
“You’re not going, and that’s final.”
“Okay, okay, I’ll ring Simon, but he isn’t going to be happy.” I’m not looking forward to this call.
“Good, get some rest. I’ll check on you later.” He leaves my room, allowing me to call privately.
“Good morning, Aria. To what do I owe the pleasure of hearing your sweet voice so early?” His voice husky and smooth. Even in my sick state, it still rocks my core.
“Hi. I’m ringing to say I won’t be coming in to work. I’m full of a cold and don’t think you need my bugs.” I hold back a cough, though it’ll come out shortly.
“That’s too bad. I really need you today. That meeting is important.”
“I know it is, and I’m incredibly sorry. I’m also disappointed I won’t get to see you,” I say.
“You really don’t sound well. Go get some rest. Let me know if you’re going to be in the office tomorrow,” he replies.
“I will,” I whisper. I hang up the phone and drop it onto my bed, allowing myself to lean back against the pillows. Shutting my eyes, I drift into an uneasy sleep. I don’t know how long I sleep before I cough myself awake. My throat is dry, nose is running, and I feel like I’ve been hit by a truck. I should take some Nurofen; that’ll take the body ache and headache away, and then I might get some rest. I get up out of bed and drag my butt downstairs, with every step I take, I feel worse, my head pounding, body aching, and I just feel sore. I get down to the bathroom, find the Nurofen, and take two. I barely make it to the couch before lying down and falling asleep again.
I’m awoken by the front door opening, and Jacob walks through it carrying a big blue bag.
“I just bumped into the most charming fellow outside, and he was dropping off a gift for you. Now, I’m curious as to how a man named Simon knows where we live,” he says, placing the bag down on the couch.
I sit up, “Did you say Simon?” I ask.
“That’s what this dumb note on the front of the bag says. It reads ‘Simon says hope you feel better soon’ with a couple of Xs marking kisses. So who is this guy?”
“He’s my boss, and that’s a private note meant only for me.”
“So in other words, he’s looking for an office fling and thinks you’ll be his little fantasy.”
“Leave me alone so I can ring Simon in private.”
“You’ll be tossed out like yesterday’s news when he’s done with you.” He calls, heading down the hallway.
I turn my attention to the parcel and open it. A Kindle. He bought me a Kindle. Wow. I smooth my hand over the parcel. I don’t believe this. I pick up my phone, needing to ring him and say thank you.
“I take it my gift arrived,” he says, answering on the second ring. Was he waiting for the call?
“Yes. Simon, you shouldn’t have.” I don’t even try to hide the excitement in my voice.
“I know, but I wanted to make you feel better.”
“You certainly achieved that goal.”
He chuckles. “I hope you don’t mind, but I set up the account under the email you use on your CV and the password is on the Post-It note attached on the inside of the Kindle box.”
“You did?”
“Yeah, I’ve downloaded a few different books on it already for you. Some are what I enjoy reading, and others are some of those romance ones you like. If you don’t like the romance ones, I’m sorry. I didn’t know which authors you enjoy reading.”
“That’s so sweet of you. I’ll read them anyway, because you chose them.”
“Now go rest up, honey, and I’ll hopefully see your gorgeous face tomorrow.”
“Bye, Simon. Enjoy the rest of your day.” I hang up the phone and toss it aside, eager to open the Kindle. I take some time getting to know how to use it. Several books flash up on the screen, a few historical romances, a few steamy BDSM romances, some crime thrillers, and some fantasy books. He selected authors I love to read. This man really is the sweetest.
I need to do something for him. I’ll make him some blueberry muffins when I’m feeling better. He’ll like that.
<
br /> Chapter Eleven
Simon
I arrive at work, hoping Aria is going to be here today. It’s been the longest week of my life not being able to see her, touch her, kiss her, and just be with her. None of the temps have been as good at the job as Aria.
I’ve missed her.
When I get up to the reception area, it’s all lit up, indicating either Lara or Aria is at work. I enter my office, remove my jacket, and cross over to my desk. On it sits my coffee, blueberry muffin, business report, and the monthly report.
Aria’s back.
Thank God!
I couldn’t stand the thought of hiring another useless temp. As I take my seat at my desk, I happen to see a white box sitting on my keyboard. On top sits a Post-It note. Scribbled out is Simon says, and she’s written:
Aria Says: Thanks for the loan. I loved using it. XX
Loan?
I open the box and find the Kindle I bought for her inside. I march over to my door and fling it open. Aria has just seated herself at her desk.
“Get in here,” I demand.
“Going to spank me over your desk?” She grins.
“Don’t give me ideas.”
She steps away from her desk as she passes me, and I inhale that gorgeous perfume she’s wearing. I turn my head as she sways that ass beneath that tight dress. Is she even wearing panties?
“Aria, would you mind explaining why the Kindle I bought for you is on my desk?” I close the door behind me.
“I’m returning it. Thanks for the loan,” she says.
“You misunderstand. It was a gift, yours to keep.”
“Why?”
“Because I wanted you to use it, you know, as a way for us to get to know each other.” I shift from one foot to the other.
“Well, thank you, but I can’t possibly keep it Simon.” She’s brushing me off, clearly.
“Why the hell not?” Now I’m pissed. She stares down at the floor. “Is it not good enough?” I ask.
“I never said that,” she replies, snapping her head up to meet my gaze. “What I meant is I don’t need your gifts or your money. I want you.”
“I bought you the gift, because I know how much you love reading.”
“Not because you want something more?” she asks.
“I want more, baby, but I don’t need to buy you gifts to get it.” I grin.
She rolls her eyes. “Oh really? Cocky much?”
“You already know how big my ego is.”
“Any bigger and it’ll need its own office.” She sniggers.
Her eyes never leave me as I cross the room and slide my arms around her waist. Pulling her close, I gently place her on the couch and trail kisses over her flesh. She writhes beneath me, as I whisper in her ear. “I don’t need to buy you gifts to make you want me. If I’m not mistaken, you already do.”
I press my lips to her skin, gently seducing her body and sliding my hand to one of her breasts. I can feel her hardened nipple through the fabric. She whimpers as I kiss lower over the fabric of her dress. The fabric is soft against my fingertips, but it’s nothing compared to her skin. I reach the hem of her skirt, making the material rise with my grip. I look down, exposing some very sexy black lace panties. Damn, I’d hoped she was commando. A feral growl leaves my lips as I kiss my way down her torso, over her stomach, stopping to lick around her belly button. I make my way lower to the band of her panties as she tightens her thighs around my shoulders.
“Si… no,” she gasps above me.
“I know, baby. No tongue down there.” I’m disappointed she still won’t let me.
“Yes,” she moans, as I curl my fingers into her panties and tug them down. I lick my thumb before rubbing it gently over her clit, and she groans.
“Shh, baby,” I whisper, though I’d rather hear her scream.
I slide two fingers into her, my thumb never leaving her clit. Her legs tremble as she moves her hips against me. In and out, I slowly move my hand. My mouth waters, desperate for a taste, but I don’t want to scare her. I steal a glance at her; her eyes are closed, and a beautiful red flush is covering her upper body. My girl is about to come. My office door rattling stops us.
“Simon, you in there?” James calls from the other side.
“Shit, shit, shit,” Aria says, as I slowly remove my fingers from her.
“Sorry, baby. Didn’t mean to hurt you.”
“You didn’t.” She smooths down her dress.
My dick is begging me to finish what we started. “Have lunch with me?”
She looks at me. “What?”
“You know, lunch, the time of day when you’re meant to eat.”
“Oh, you mean when I eat a chocolate bar on the run while working?”
I frown. “I’d like you to eat more than a chocolate bar.”
“I’d like to eat you.” She smiles wickedly.
“I’ll take that as a yes.” I fist pump the air.
“Only if we finish what we started,” she says.
I grin. “You’re going to be starving when I’m done with you.” I exit the office and meet James in the boardroom.
The next four hours had better go fast.
Aria
“Where are we going for lunch?” I ask Simon as we get down into the car-parking basement.
“It’s a surprise,” he replies, as he slides his hand into mine and links our fingers together. “Come on, baby. Roger is waiting.” He pulls me towards an SUV, in which a man is waiting inside for us.
“Who’s Roger?” I ask, as Simon opens the rear passenger seat for me.
“My driver,” he says, pointing to the front seat.
“Good afternoon, Miss,” Roger acknowledges from the front seat, as Simon walks around the car and climbs in.
I turn to him. “Why is he driving us?”
“I haven’t told you. I have an eye condition, which limits my driving. Roger here gets paid a considerable sum to be my personal chauffeur, and he’s my personal trainer too,” he explains.
“So how were you able to drive me from the library that day?” I question.
“Well, I’m allowed to drive. I just don’t like driving around Wellington. Too busy, and way too big compared to Upper Hutt. At least Upper Hutt is a small town.” He shrugs.
“So, you’re blind? Not that it changes anything, but I want to know.”
“Not blind, no. I’ve had many surgeries on my left eye to correct the sight, but they didn’t work, and I’ve been having some issues with my right since earlier this year, and it’s remained stable so far,” he clarifies.
“So what does this mean in the long run?” I ask.
He looks at me. “Honey, are we going to spend this trip discussing my eyes, or are you going to come over here and kiss me?”
I slide over to the middle seat, do up my seatbelt, and lean against him. “I want to know more.”
He chuckles. “You’ll get the answers, but for now, kiss me.”
I tilt my face up and place a kiss on his lips but then pull back. “You said a kiss. Now tell me, where are we going?” I ask.
“You’ll find out very shortly,” he says, and a few minutes later, we pull up to the front of a hotel. Simon gets out of the car while I sit staring up at the building like some idiot. He opens the door with a flourish. “My lady.” He holds out a hand for me and turns to Roger. “I’ll text when we want to be picked up.”
He slides an arm around my waist and guides me inside, directing me towards an elevator.
“Don’t we have to check in?” I ask as the doors open.
He shakes his head. “No, I already did that.” We get inside and the doors close. Standing awkwardly next to him, we steal glances at one another. I want to just jump him, but I worry people will see. He grins as we catch each other and start laughing. “This is our floor,” Simon announces as the lift slows. As soon as we are out of the lift, we have the same idea. We crash together in a wave of passion, our kisses heated and full of desir
e.
God! This feels so good.
He rips his mouth away from mine, scoops me over his shoulder, and carries me towards a room. Of course, I’m more focused on the way his ass looks in his pants. Sexy and firm, I lightly slap it, just to get a reaction.
“Hey! Stop that.” He chuckles. He lowers me to the floor, unlocks the door, and then covers my eyes. “Don’t peek, baby,” he whispers in my ear. I’m walked into the room behind him, laughing as I go.
“This feels so naughty.” I giggle. He removes his hands, and I glance around the room. On the floor in front of the bed is a picnic setup, complete with wine and cutlery. A huge arrangement of food is displayed in the picnic basket and on the blanket.
“Do you like it?” he asks. I spin around, gently tug his tie towards me, and our lips meet as I slide my tongue into his mouth. He reaches around me pulling him towards me. I undo his tie, tossing it onto the floor, and unbutton his shirt, scraping my hands down his chest. He pulls out of the kiss. “Baby, slow down.”
“Slow down? Si…we only have an hour,” I say.
He smiles and shakes his head. “I booked this business meeting for two hours. So I can take my time with you.”
“Finally, we’re alone. Where do we start?”
“Dessert.”
He crashes his lips to mine and pushes me backwards. He unzips my dress as we walk, with me kicking my heels off to the side. He bends down, picking me up as he trails kisses over my skin, and then drops me onto the bed. I remove his jacket, tie, and shirt in quick fashion. The heat from his chest scorches my torso. He trails kisses down my chest, tugging the straps of my bra down with his hands. He licks over both my nipples as I buck my hips against him.
“Baby, I’m getting to your pussy in good time, but my girls need some attention first.” He sucks my nipple into his mouth, making me forget how to breathe, let alone speak.
