Protecting the Babysitter: A Billionaire Alpha Male Romance

by Bloom, Nikki

  Could this shy, sweet woman, who my nephew adored really be some kind of criminal? No fucking way. I refused to believe it. She wasn’t who she said she was, but my gut told me she wasn’t a bad person.

  Just tell me who you are and what you’re running from, I pleaded silently, wishing I could say the words out loud. But she wouldn’t do that, would she? Despite our one night of passion, I was a virtual stranger. She didn’t trust me enough to share her secrets.

  “I’m glad I could help. Maybe I can assist you with your purchase. It would be good to have someone with you who knows about cars. That way you won’t get a bad deal.”

  “What makes you think I don’t know anything about cars?”

  “Do you?”

  Her melodious laugh filling my car made my heart leap. “No. But I still don’t need your help.”

  I sighed. “Alright, Miss Independent, at least let me take you home today. Take a break from public transportation.”

  “I…” She nibbled her lower lip and I had to look away. If only she knew how that innocent action tempted me. “I don’t want you to know where I live. Okay? There, I said it.”

  Eyes swinging to her, I was both shocked that she was so honest―finally— and confused. “Despite what you thought earlier, I’m no stalker. I won’t show up at your place uninvited to throw rocks at your window or anything like that.”

  She pursed her lips and I could tell she was fighting back a smile. “That visual is somewhat entertaining.”

  Snorting, I said, “What I’m trying to say is, you can trust me with your address.”

  “It’s not that,’ she murmured. “It’s just that my neighborhood is far removed from your upscale residence.”

  “If you think I care about that, your opinion of me is very low.”

  She heaved a long sigh and reached for her seatbelt. “You just don’t quit, do you?”

  Grinning, I started the car. “I told you, I’m good at getting what I want.”

  * * *

  Crystal led me up the stone steps of a five-story building. Of course, I weaseled my way into an invitation into her apartment. I’d shamelessly badgered her until she gave in. It was hard not to notice the way she warily scanned the block and gave quick glances over her shoulder as she marched up the steps. It solidified my suspicion that she was running from someone. Someone who incited fear.

  Before my mind could start creating a list of possible scenarios, I was distracted by the sway of her hips as I followed closely behind her. That was what she did to me―distracted me to no end. What I would give to get my hands on her delectable body again. Crystal seemed to relax a bit once the glass door slammed behind us.

  She wheeled around before we headed up the staircase. “Are you sure you want to leave your car out there unattended? It might not be there when you get back.”

  “I’ll take my chances if it means getting a few more minutes with you.”

  There was the distinct sound of her breath hitching. Her lips parted but no words came out, and I bit back a smile. For the first time, I wasn’t laying on the charm and sweet words because I wanted to get into a woman’s panties—well, I did want to get into Crystal’s again, but that wasn’t the only reason. I truly meant what I’d said. Forget the car, if it meant spending a little time with her.

  Visibly swallowing, she murmured, “I can’t believe I let you talk me into inviting you in.”

  “I’m a very persuasive man.”

  She gave me an annoyed look and turned to head up the stairs. We reached the third floor and Crystal’s anxiety seemed to return. It radiated off of her in waves and I searched for something to say to put her at ease. I didn’t get the chance because a man who looked like he belonged in a biker gang along with my best friend, David, emerged from the apartment two doors down. He stopped when he saw us and then his eyes zeroed in on me with interest.

  When he glanced back at Crystal, and a bright smile formed―something that looked out of place on his harsh features―I immediately wanted to plant my fist in the guy’s face. It was insane, considering that he was a complete stranger.

  “Hey there, Crys. How’s it going?”

  Crys? That was way too familiar. The bitter taste of jealousy in my mouth almost made me nauseated.

  Crystal lifted a hand and waved. “Hi, Rocco. I’m...still going.” She glanced back at me nervously and her eyes darted back to the man. “How are you?”

  Rocco shrugged. “I’d be better if I got another batch of your cherry cheesecake danishes.”

  Crystal’s delighted giggle made me see red. She didn’t giggle like that with me. “I’ll have to do something about that then. Uh, this is...my friend, Erik. Erik this is...Rocco, my...I’ll see you later, Rocco.”

  Rocco winked, “See you, Betty Crocker.”

  Crystal blushed and my scowl deepened. That Neanderthal made Crystal blush and he had nicknames for her. What the fuck? I hadn’t gotten into an immature teenage fist fight since I was...well, a teenager. But I wanted to go a round with this guy who looked at Crystal with familiarity—who she’d apparently baked for.

  Rocco glanced at me with blatant amusement and I think I might have snarled at him. Crystal pushed her door open and practically pulled me inside. “Who the hell was that?” I growled the moment the door closed.

  She inhaled deeply and I noticed how she avoided my gaze. “My neighbor,” she replied and shrugged.

  “No shit. You two seem awfully friendly.”

  Crystal threw her handbag onto a couch. “What is your problem all of a sudden? You coerced me into inviting you up to talk only to throw accusations? Because it sounds like that’s what you’re doing.”

  Shoving a hand through my hair, I pulled in a deep breath and took a moment to see reason. Yes, I was acting like a complete fool. That was what jealousy did to a man. “I’m sorry. It’s just that you’ve been closed off since I met you and then I see you interacting with a man who seems to know you a hell of a lot better than I do. I admit, I’m jealous.” And did I mention that the man looks like a criminal? I wasn’t the judgmental type, but I was jealous and concerned about Crystal being neighbors with the likes of Rocco.

  Crystal studied me silently for a while, as if she was trying to see into my soul. As if she was trying to gauge if I was worthy of whatever she was about to share. I held her gaze, virtually seeing a layer of the wall she’d built crumble. I didn’t realize I’d been holding my breath until she spoke.

  With a small smile, she confessed, “I’m flattered that you’re jealous and surprised that you actually admitted it.” Laughing she stepped away. “Welcome to my home; it’s a bit of a dump, but it’s the best I can do right now. I—”

  “It’s yours and it’s fine.” I gave the small living room a quick survey. The apartment featured the minimalist’s style with just the necessities. But it had her touch and that gave the place a cozy atmosphere.

  She tucked her hair behind her ear. “Thanks. I’ve never had anyone in here.”

  “Not even Rocco?” I could have kicked myself in the mouth. I hadn’t meant to sound so bitter. To my surprise, Crystal only laughed.

  “Not even Rocco. I don’t sleep very well. And when I can’t, I always find myself in the kitchen, baking. It’s always comforted me for some reason. I suppose it’s because my mother had a passion for cooking and baking.”

  “I didn’t know that.”

  “Now you do,” she confirmed with a grin.

  That’s when I realized that she was gifting me with another glimpse into her life. I now knew that Crystal liked to bake, and she’d shared a small detail about her family.

  “One night, I went way overboard with the pastries. It was more than I could ever eat, and I was on my way down to the dumpster with an entire batch of danishes when I ran into Rocco. I gave them to him instead and he had gobbled them up by the next morning. So, it became our thing. When I can’t sleep and I bake like a madwoman, he helps me to avoid wasting everything. I’ve b
rought dinner over to him a few times, but it’s all very innocent. Plus, despite his appearance, he is a nice guy and he’s kind of looked out for me since I’ve been here. It’s comforting to have a neighbor who I actually interact with to an extent.” She released a sigh. “I get lonely.”

  My heart tugged with her last words, and I nearly blurted out that she didn’t have to be alone anymore because I knew her secret―or a piece of it. Instead, I said, “Thank you. I know what it took for you to share that much with me.”

  Crystal ducked her head and twisted her hands in front of her. “I guess...you’re growing on me.”

  I threw my head back and laughed. “As I’ve said, you’re terrible for a man’s ego. But, I’m glad to know I’m at least growing on you.”

  Her cheeks were flushed, which I found strangely sexy, and she began shifting from one foot to the other. “I haven’t been a gracious host. I’m out of practice, I suppose. Can I offer you something to drink? You can have a seat and―”

  I swallowed her surprised gasp when I captured her mouth. I wanted to kiss her the moment I saw her outside of the school and I couldn’t hold back any longer. The feel of her soft, warm lips beneath mine ignited a fire of need inside of me. Crystal sighed and melted against me. All I could think about at that moment was how right it felt having her in my arms.

  11

  Crystal

  I allowed Erik to deepen the kiss, wrapping my arms around his neck, trying to get as close to him as possible. I had been wary about inviting him up because I would be letting him into my life in a way. Then, the incident with Rocco in the hallway had put me on edge. There Erik was face to face with the man that I’d gotten counterfeit documents from. The story I told about sharing my baked goods with my neighbor was absolutely true, but I was also one of Rocco’s “customers.”

  Having Erik just a few feet away from the man had me nervous. The guilt alone almost killed me. But now, wrapped in Erik’s arms, all of that was forgotten. Eyes closed, I basked in the warmth he radiated and the sensual way he explored my mouth. I wanted nothing more than to rip his fancy suit off and have my way with him right there on my living room couch. That was what Erik did to me: He turned me into some kind of sex fiend.

  But, there was too much evidence of my guilt surrounding me. I was a liar and a fraud—undeserving of Erik’s attention. The fire building in my core dissipated and I pushed against his shoulders. He groaned and loosened his hold around my waist. He rested his forehead against mine, his breathing as unsteady as mine.

  “I’m sorry. I don’t want you to think I came up here for that. We’re supposed to talk.”

  Hands sliding to his chest, I breathed, “I know. You don’t hear me complaining, do you?” I didn’t know I’d been longing for Erik’s kiss until he kissed me. I longed to be back in his bed too and that scared me.

  Even the vibration of his soft chuckle against my palms felt good. I dropped my hands as if burned and took a few steps back. Suddenly, I wanted him to leave. My ever-growing feelings for him were starting to overwhelm me and I needed space.

  “Maybe you should go.”

  He blinked and then his brows furrowed. “What? Already?”

  Twisting my hands together, I studied the tips of my boots. “I don’t mean to be rude. It’s just…” I shrugged, not sure what to tell him. I couldn’t tell him that I was starting to feel too much for him. Letting out a breath, I blurted, “If you stay, we’ll both end up naked in bed or on the couch, and I can’t right now. Not here.”

  Amusement lit Erik’s features and his eyes gleamed with lust. “I don’t see anything wrong with us naked in bed or on the couch. Even the floor would work.”

  “Erik.”

  “Alright, fine. You want me to go, I respect that. But I’m not leaving until you agree to a date.”

  The thought of being out in public almost caused me to break out into hives. “That’s probably not a good idea.”

  “One proper date, Crystal. That’s all I want.” He grasped my chin and forced me to look at him. “Then, if you want me to leave you alone, I will.”

  Those words shouldn’t have hurt, but they did. Deep down, I didn’t want him to leave me alone. Mesmerized by his deep blue orbs staring into mine, I heard myself say, “Okay.”

  He didn’t release me from his hold as I expected. Instead, he continued to stare. “I take back what I said. A date isn’t all I want. I want to do more than kiss you after that date. But I’ll wait until we get to that point and see what happens.”

  I felt foolish gaping at him, but my brain was too muddled because of his proximity and his words.

  “I’ll pick you up here at seven,” he announced and leaned down to give me a quick hard kiss before he wheeled around and marched out of my living room. I stood there staring at the door for a long while. Finally, I let out a long breath.

  “What was I thinking?” I was in over my head agreeing to see Erik again. It would only make it that much harder to keep my secret or to leave him if―no, when―I had to.

  * * *

  Despite my misgivings about getting closer to Erik, there I was ready for an evening out with him. I stood at the top step in front of my apartment building and ran my sweaty palms over the black cocktail dress I wore. The dress was purchased just hours ago after I told Lorie about my upcoming date. First, the crazy woman had squealed so loud with excitement (one would think she was the one going on the date), then she insisted we go shopping. After work, we did just that. I don’t know why I let Lorie talk me into buying the skin-tight dress that left way too much of my legs on display. Or maybe I did know. I wanted to feel sexy―something I hadn’t felt in a long time.

  Erik strolled toward me, looking sophisticated as always, in a navy blue suit. He looked amazing and I was glad I didn’t chicken out and change my dress. The closer he got, the harder my heart pounded. I felt like a teenager going on her first date. I was on edge, yet at the same time excited. Months ago, I never thought I’d be looking forward to a date like a normal person with a normal life. I decided then that I’d make the most of the night because the life I’d managed to build in the last four months could come crashing down any day now. Erik could disappear from my life by tomorrow. Or rather, I’d disappear from his.

  Shoving aside the depressing thoughts that were fighting their way into my head, I met him at the bottom of the steps. Immediately, my body when into hormonal overdrive. It was ridiculous how a man’s mere proximity affected me. Not just any man. Erik. Everything about him overwhelmed me but in a good way. His charisma, his alpha male attitude, the spicy masculine scent he emitted. It was like he was wearing some kind of intoxication sexual pheromone instead of cologne. I seriously wanted to jump him right there on the sidewalk. Good God.

  Pulling in a deep breath I hit him with a smile. “Hi.”

  He greeted me by wrapping an arm around my waist and pulling me against his chest. His head descended to command my mouth in the domineering way that he liked to kiss me. We’d slept together once and he behaved as if he owned my body. But who am I kidding? I loved it. I wanted him to own my body because he handled it oh so well.

  Pulling away all too soon, he smiled slightly. “I’ve developed a habit of kissing you without permission.”

  “You need permission?” I was breathless, dazed, swaying against him as I gazed into his eyes.

  “I never know with you. But I can’t seem to control myself around you.” He stepped back and it was a wonder I didn’t collapse at his feet with my suddenly rubbery knees. I’d thought kisses only made a girl weak in the knees in cheesy romance movies. I’d thought wrong. Giving me a slow, heated appraisal, he said, “You look incredible.”

  Instantly, my face scorched. “Thank you.” Admittedly, I’d put a lot of effort into looking my best. I’d even taken the time to do more than run a brush through my hair a few times. My mane hung as a sleek, well-groomed curtain around my shoulders.

  “Shall we?” He held out an arm a
nd I accepted with a giggle. God, he made me giggle. Like some silly teenage girl.

  By the time we reached the restaurant and went through the first few courses, I was feeling good. After making up my mind to enjoy the night, I let myself go in Erik’s company. There were a few times when my paranoia kicked in and I found myself surveying the restaurant uneasily, but then I’d remind myself that it was unlikely that I was being watched.

  Erik and I ate, we chatted, we laughed... I dodged every personal question he threw my way like a pro. And he did the gentlemanly thing by not pushing for answers. By the time dessert rolled around, I was stuffed. But there was no way I was going to let the last half of my chocolate tiramisu go to waste. “So good,” I moaned, placing another piece into my mouth.

  Erik shifted in his chair across from me and cleared his throat lightly, grabbing my attention. Fork poised in front of my mouth, I asked, “Are you okay?” His jaw was clenched and there was a slight flush to his cheeks while his eyes were trained on my mouth.

  “No.”

  I dropped my fork, forgetting about my delicious dessert and putting a leash on my raging sweet tooth. “What’s wrong?” Was he feeling unwell?

  “You’ve been torturing me for the past five minutes.”

  “I-I beg your pardon?”

  “There’s something incredibly sexual about watching you eat dessert. And then you just have to throw in sexy little moans...Christ. I’m going to have a hard time walking out of here,” he grumbled, shifting in his chair again.

  I gawked at him, not sure how to respond. I let out a laugh. “Oh, my God. Leave it up to you to have your mind in the gutter simply by watching a woman eat.”

  His lips twitched and his eyes twinkled with amusement. “Not just any woman, Crystal. You. I find it sexy watching you eat. I do like a woman with an appetite.”

  I could feel fire burning up my neck and spreading to my face. I’d totally been pigging out. What can I say? I enjoyed good food. And the food at that particular restaurant was everything. I’d never be able to afford to get a foot into the place otherwise, so I had to make the most of my date. Pursing my lips, I shrugged, “I’m not one to worry about calories...until I look in the mirror and realize that perhaps I need to go on a diet.” I laughed.