by C. Michelle
Pinned Up
Copyright 2013 C. Michelle
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever including Internet usage, without written permission of the author.
Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, organizations, places, events, and incidents are the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events, or locations is entirely coincidental and not intended by the author.
Is This Love
Words and Music by Bob Marley
Copyright (c) 1978 Fifty-Six Hope Road Music Ltd. and Odnil Music Ltd.
All Rights in North America Administered by Blue Mountain Music Ltd./Irish Town Songs (ASCAP) and throughout the rest of the world by Blue Mountain Music Ltd. (PRS)
All Rights Reserved
Reprinted by Permission of Hal Leonard Corporation
I Need Your Lovin'
Words and Music by Mary C. Brockert
(c) 1980 JOBETE MUSIC CO., INC.
All Rights Controlled and Administered by EMI APRIL MUSIC INC.
All Rights Reserved International Copyright Secured Used by Permission
Reprinted by Permission of Hal Leonard Corporation
Sugar Skull Design & Model Retouch by Michele Catalano
http://michelecatalano.com & [email protected]
Book Cover Design by Sarah Hansen from Okay Creations
www.okaycreations.com
Author’s photograph by Monroy Custom Photography
www.monroycustomphotography.com
eBook formatting by Maureen Cutajar from Go Published
www.gopublished.com
Copyrighted Material or Trademarked
Betty (Bettie) Page, Marilyn Monroe, Betty Boop, NLCS, Major League Baseball, UC Berkeley, San Francisco State University, Millennium Tower, Sergio Romo, (MLB) Giants, (MLB) Cardinals, (MLB) Tigers, Spotify, Pandora, Instagram, Words with Friends, Twilight Zone, Twister, Splenda, diet Coke, Slurpee, Snickers, Doritos, Takis, Tapatio Hot Sauce, Pop Rocks Candy, Patrón Tequila, DEA, iPhone, Google, Walk for Life, Cirque du Soleil, Exotics Racing, Wynn Hotel, Belagio Hotel, Dirty Dick’s, Ben & Jerry’s, Gary Danko’s, Mitchell’s, Roxie’s Deli, Harley-Davidson, Armand de Brignac Champagne, Henry Cavill, William Levy, Range Rover, GMC, Bentley, Mustang, Porsche, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Ashton Martin, Nissan, Mercedes, McLaren, Audi, Twilight, Fifty Shades of Grey, Friends, Jersey Shore, Mob Wives, The Real Housewives of New Jersey, True Blood, American Idol, Toddlers & Tiaras, Grease, She’s the Man, Troop Beverly Hills, Interview with a Vampire, the Notebook, The Godfather, Scarface, Carlito’s Way
A Special Thanks…
To my bratty sisters, Betsy Lopez and Quiana Moreno, for your feedback and eagerness on the completion of this book. You have been my confidants since the beginning of my writing journey and I thank you for your support. I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed getting drunk with you and discussing Nina, Josh, and Kade. I love you dearly and cherish your opinions highly.
To Juliet Fowler, founder of the SMI Book Club, for encouraging me to write a book and for the continuous support throughout this process along with Magda Pereira, Stephanie Juarez, Pam Rivero-Chavez, and Myra De La Rosa (aka my twin). I appreciate you ladies cheering me on, listening to me rant, and for our raunchy conversations. You wenchoes rock y las quiero mucho!
To my mom, the best mother in the world! Gracias for coming over and cooking for us, watching my kids, and allowing me the opportunity to write. Thank you for believing in me and for your constant prayers. I love you! I hope your eyes don’t come out of their sockets from reading this book. And dad, thank you for coming through for me.
To my daughter, Yasmin, a million thanks for your enthusiasm and believing in me. I’m sorry you can’t read this book anytime soon due to its unsuitable content for a girl your age, but when you reach an appropriate age (like 65, for example) and choose to read this book, you’ll no longer have to wonder what runs through my mind. You’ll have it in writing. (Mom is a bit twisted.)
Last, but most definitely not least, I’d like to thank my best friend and hubs who also encouraged me in writing a book, has been extremely supportive of me, and didn’t complain too much when I made the family “fend for themselves” due to my writing. Thank you for everything, babe…I love you.
Playlist of Songs
1) “Adorn” by Miguel
2) “Kryptonite” by 3 Doors Down
3) “Don’t Let No One Get You Down” by War
4) “Siete Vidas” by El Gran Combo
5) “Superwoman” by Lil’ Mo and Fabolous
6) “Be Without You” by Mary J. Blige
7) “I Need Your Lovin’” by Teena Marie
8) “Swimming Pools (Drank) by Kendrick Lamar
9) “Rehab” by Rihanna
10) “Black Betty” by Ram Jam
11) “Is This Love” by Bob Marley
12) “You’re the Only One” by Eric Benet
13) “Heavy Cross” by the Gossip
14) “Suit and Tie” by Justin Timberlake
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Sock Bun
Chapter 2 Waitress
Chapter 3 World Series
Chapter 4 Non-Dates
Chapter 5 My Lady
Chapter 6 Familia
Chapter 7 Drunk Ass
Chapter 8 Gifts
Chapter 9 Driving
Chapter 10 Celeste
Chapter 11 Faces
Chapter 12 Friends
Chapter 13 Visitor
Chapter 14 Okay
Dedication
To my hubs for once telling me, “We have a road ahead that is unknown, but as long as you’re loving me, I’ll be there every step of the way…” and holding true to your word. Thank you for making my journey with you such a crazy venture. I love you and look forward to a future of wonderful and exciting discoveries.
Chapter 1 (Nina)
Sock Bun
Today was particularly exhausting. Out of all days, why did this photo shoot have to feel so tiresome? I need to remind myself I’ve been a nonstop force the past few weeks and exhaustion has finally taken over. I usually enjoy getting dolled up in retro clothing and making slight attempts to resemble iconic pin-up models, Betty (Bettie) Page and Marilyn Monroe. I’m a big admirer of the forties and fifties; I regularly turn to these eras for fashion inspiration. This afternoon, my heart just wasn’t in the poses I took nor did I bask in the pleasure of getting prepped up to look like a sensual, yet sophisticated vixen. The shots were all about extraordinary prestige, I posed next to a 1947 Bentley Franay Mark VI Cabriolet. The black vintage collectible with white interior is considered one of the most desirable Rolls-Royce/Bentleys of all time. Standing next to this classic beauty earlier, I felt intimidated and prayed I did the shots justice. This masterpiece belongs to a billionaire tycoon who possesses a lavish compilation of elite cars. Dillon, the photographer whom I’ve worked with on several occasions and is responsible for this photo shoot, thought I would be the perfect model alongside such a coveted vehicle of this caliber.
Since the Bentley is a slick, shiny jet black color with a snow white immaculate interior, Dillon and the stylist on set felt red would be the best color for my attire. I’m wearing a satin form fitting, structured wiggle dress with black straps and belt that enriches my bust line. The pumps are red satin with a peep toe, a shiny black contrast heel, and a ruffle detail at the vamp. The cat eyeliner with exaggerated lashes and red lipstick on my porcelain face make the forties inspired look reach perfection. My long brown hair has pin curls that slightly drape the left side of my face making
the overall look Hollywood glamorous.
I enjoy being a pin-up model as a side gig. I love to indulge myself in wearing kick ass wiggle dresses, bustiers, and some awesome “fuck me shoes.” What can I say, sometimes I have over the top girly moments. I really should consider taking time off my regular job and modeling though, that is if I want to maintain what’s left of my sanity.
“Cheesecake! Where are you, doll? I can’t live without you!” Kade’s loud voice interrupts my thoughts.
“Kade, I’m right behind you.” I exit the restroom I had been using as a dressing room throughout the photo shoot. As I approach him, I’m putting my hair in a bun. “No need for you to yell. I swear, you can be so dramatic sometimes. I guess it’s my fault for humoring you too much.”
“Hey, I resent that! I’m hilarious, even if I do say so myself.” He feigns a hurt expression. “You need to rest ASAP, you’re barely standing. That’s what happens when you bite more than you can chew. Remember…you’re not a spring chicken anymore.” Kade smirks at me showing off a dimple on his right cheek. He puts both hands in his pockets and leans against the wall right across my dressing room. “Hurry up and get ready so we can leave.”
Ugh! Sometimes, he can be so annoying! Who am I kidding? I love Kade. Despite his overzealous personality and blatant comments, he’s my ride or die bestie. Kade is my rock and knows how to knock sense into me even when I supplicate him not to. He’s too cute for his own good. He has dirty blonde Ivy League hair that is short at his crown and gets longer towards the front. He’s average height for a man, slim, but toned. His overall look is very clean cut. He has sapphire eyes with long eyelashes and finely sculpted features. He’s definitely pretty to look at and he knows it.
“Whatever. You could be more supportive, you know. The last thing I want to hear is that I’m working too much and can’t handle the load.” Since I hardly ate today, I’m agitated and feel like biting someone’s head off. Kade is the closest nearby and will do as the perfect victim if he continues to run his mouth.
“Cheesecake, as your super fabulous and ridiculously good looking best friend, it is my obligation to speak the truth and not waste my breath telling you what you wanna hear. You’re lucky to have me in your life. Who else would tell you the loose sock bun you’re rocking looks like a dog’s turd on a sidewalk? You’re fortunate to have amazing chocolate eyes with full lips and a nicely defined nose to distract people from that hideous bun. Let’s not forget that sweet rack, a person can do the motor boat on those bad boys for days, once again forgetting about that hair disaster of yours. I loved your pin curls, why did you have to ruin your hairstyle by putting it into that dreadful bun?” Kade questions me with repulsion in his features.
“Don’t respond. Just get ready.” Kade smacks my right butt cheek and directs me to the restroom.
I attempt to give him an evil sneer, but fail. “You’re lucky I’m too tired to argue back or give you a piece of my mind. I’m just glad I thought ahead and brought my pj bottoms and shirt. I’m definitely crashing the minute I get home.” I sigh and push the swinging door open.
After I change into my comfy pjs in the dressing room of the warehouse we were shooting at all day, I decide to remove my makeup. I lather the thick green cleanser and begin scrubbing it onto my face. With my rear, I open the swinging door and walk out with my eyes closed still massaging the makeup remover on my cheeks.
“Kade, let’s stop somewhere and grab a quick bite. I’m starving! Anything sinful and packed with calories sounds bomb right now, I’m tired of being good these past few weeks. Now that this calendar shoot is over, I can finally let loose. I need some grease and chocolate in my life, damn it! So, what? Are you game?” I ask as I fantasize of stuffing my face.
“Um, Cheesecake…Can you please wash your face? Dillon is here and wants to introduce you to his friend, Joshua.” Kade emphasizes the name to discreetly inform me Dillon’s friend is male.
Oh, great. Did I just sound like a porker? Please God, don’t let him be cute. Let him be ugly or gay or an old geezer, anything…but cute.
“Sure, give me a sec.” I turn, too embarrassed to open my eyes. I walk back into the restroom and wash off the green cleanser. After I pat my face dry, I scowl at myself for being so vain. I rarely wear makeup throughout the week, so who cares if a stranger just saw me looking less than glamorous and knows I’m a girl who actually likes to get her grub on? What’s the big deal? Frankly, I’m too drained to give a rat’s ass. I gather my belongings and head out.
Fuck me…hard.
Dillon’s friend looks absolutely delicious…He stands over six feet tall with a cocky smirk on his striking face. He has a young look about him, but the stubble along his jawline reflects some ruggedness. Yum! He appears to be in his late twenties. His hair is light brown, the sides are trimmed, but the top is slightly tousled since it’s longer. He’s wearing a black pea coat with a plain white shirt underneath, loose fitted denim jeans, and some black work boots. His broad shoulders give a hint at an athletic build. The perfect toppings to this guy are his hypnotic hazel eyes beneath long, thick lashes and amazing full lips. I feel my eyes popping out of their sockets…traitors.
Focus, Nina!
I do my best to maintain composure and direct my attention towards Dillon. Why didn’t he tell me about his hot friend? Would it have killed him to give me a heads up? Men! What does it matter anyway? The last thing I need is to get caught up in a relationship. I’m focused on my two careers right now. I don’t feel like being another notch on this guy’s belt. No thanks. Why are these ridiculous thoughts even crossing my mind? I’m absurd. Although, honestly speaking, my poor vagina probably has cobwebs by now from so much neglect. With that sultry mouth of his, I’m sure he could give both sets of my lips the attention they crave. Mmmm…
“Nina!” Kade yells and gives me an incredulous look.
“Huh? What?” Shit. Did I just zone out?
“Dillon was introducing you to his friend and you seemed kind of spaced out.” Kade struggles to contain his laugh. Since he feels himself failing, he turns away to compose himself. Jerk.
Dillon intervenes as he’s running his hand through his thick black hair. “Like I was saying, Nina, this is my good friend, Joshua Ryan. He heard about the Bentley I was photographing and wanted to see it up close and personal before it was taken away by security.” Dillon smiles warmly at me. He’s genuinely a nice person; I like him as a friend. He’s in his mid-thirties and a bit on the serious side. He’s not the type of guy who strikes you as deliciously handsome right away, but once you get to know him, his personality shines and you find him more attractive as time passes by.
“Hi, I just had to stop by and see this sexy machine for myself. It’s truly a rare beauty with fine lines and amazing curves. It makes me want to take it for a long ride.” Joshua maintains eye contact with me, but his glare makes me feel vulnerable, even naked. He smirks when he sees my discomfort.
I accidentally drop my keys and gain that moment to gather my thoughts as I pick up the keys from the floor. Is it just me, or does this Joshua guy appear to be amused by my disheveled appearance? Am I being paranoid?
“I like that bun you’re wearing. It’s…cute.” Josh says as he’s hovering over me.
Damn you, Kade! He was right about my bun looking like a piece of turd and now this guy is mocking me. Great. That’s okay, though. No one makes me feel awkward, especially this pompous prick. I’m done with this conversation.
I stand in a dignified manner. “Thank you. I’m Valentina Moretti, but everyone calls me, Nina. I apologize for seeming dazed. I’m simply exhausted and ready to head home. It was nice meeting you, Joshua.” I attempt to shake his hand quickly, but he grabs my hand with a double grip, the whole time keeping his eyes locked with mine. Why is my breathing escalating?
“Please…call me Josh. It was truly my pleasure, Nina. Take care.” He says with a smoldering look.
I hastily remove my hand from his and
look away towards Dillon, immediately I can sense Joshua’s eyes burning through me.
“Dillon, I’ll see you soon. Please let me know what the owner thinks of the shots and let him know I truly enjoyed being next to such a beautiful car. Good night.” I give him a half hug, a small peck on his cheek, and walk away with Kade following me waving goodbye to both men.
As soon as we enter my car, Betty, a 1966 sky blue Mustang GT convertible, Kade gives me a disbelieving look.
“What, Kade?” I ask pretending to be annoyed.
“What’s with you, Cheesecake? You didn’t give me a chance to get to know my future baby daddy! Okay, Miss Rude and Miss I-don’t-care-if-Kade-ever-gets-laid-again!” He says with an exasperated tone.
“Kade aka Mr. Drama-Queen-to-the-highest-degree, can you please calm down? I need to rest, remember? I just worked twelve hours straight on three hours of sleep; I’m physically and mentally drained. Why don’t you talk to me while I drive so that I can stay awake?” If there’s anything Kade finds irresistible, it’s talking, he absolutely loves the sound of his voice.
“Sweet. Baby. Jesus! Did you see the bod on that beef cake? He looks absolutely sinful, but in a delicious kind of way. I don’t care how many calories he’s worth, I’d tear him up in a heartbeat! Let me tell you, the man was clearly into you, with all the eye fucking he was giving you, he’s definitely interested.” His smile is so big, it reaches his baby blues.
I’m shocked. “What? He wasn’t eye fucking me, liar! Why must you exaggerate everything, Kade?” I try to remain serious, but start laughing hysterically. Kade has such a vivid imagination.
“He was to! I should know because I was busy eye fucking him. I know a good eye fuck when I see one and trust me, that hot piece of meat was thoroughly eye fucking you. Even in your raggedy pjs and ridiculous bun, you’re absolutely beautiful. The man has amazing taste, you have to give him credit for that.”
