Love's Hot

by Karen Deen

  Walking to the glass doors to head back to my room, two hot-as-hell women walk towards the gym. Well, I’m not sure how much real exercise they intend on doing with all the make-up caked on their face, but damn, I wish they had turned up a few hours ago. It would have been even more reason to keep running if I had those bodies to watch leaning over and lifting some weights. I’m more than happy to admit I love a slender fit-looking woman. I never thought I had a type when I was younger but now, I know I certainly do. Blonde, athletic, confident and happy to just have fun. If they tick all those boxes, then I’m game to see where things lead.

  “Ladies.” I give them the panty-dropping smile as I hold the door open for them. “Heading in for a workout? Pity you’re a little late for us to work out together.” They both laugh with one rolling her eyes at me. I know it’s cheesy, but it gets the conversation started. We stand in the doorway facing each other while I’m checking them both out. I’ve never been the kind of guy to do two women at once, but these two make a very strong case for me to think hard about it. Who am I kidding, I couldn’t treat a woman like that. I don’t like sharing; when they’re with me, they are only with me. Just as I’m about to start the conversation, the one who rolled her eyes looks me straight in the eyes and places her arm around the waist of the other.

  “I’m pretty sure I’m the only one who will be working my girlfriend out, but thanks for holding the door for us.” She leans across and lays claim to her partner with a kiss that I’d be proud of. One that makes me feel like a piece of shit for hitting on someone else’s girlfriend.

  “Sorry, ladies. I was just enjoying the view. Have a great workout session, wherever you may choose to have it.” They keep walking into the gym, laughing between themselves, while I pick up my jaw and head back to my room. Damn, they make one very attractive couple, and I look like one giant dick. I hope my luck is better tonight, otherwise it could be just me and Mrs. Palmer back in my room and that would really suck.

  When I get to my room, I strip down, and jump into the shower. My phone starts ringing, and I see it’s my mom. There’s no way I’m talking to my mother on the phone while I stand naked in the bathroom. Doesn’t matter I can’t see her, and she can’t see me, it’s just too weird. I let it ring out and message her that I’ll call back shortly. Feeling the hot beads of water hitting my head and shoulders, I relax into the shower. Nothing beats it after a good workout. Standing there washing, my mind starts wandering back to my case files. Even when I’m not at work, it’s hard not to be thinking about it.

  The case I was working last week is still hanging in the back of my mind. It was a young teenage boy who was working at the local gas station and was shot when an armed hold-up went wrong. The poor young guy was just trying to make a few extra dollars to take the pressure off his family income. Having to inform victims’ parents is the hardest part of my job. No family wants a policeman knocking on their door with bad news. Makes you want to hug your own family just that little bit tighter.

  Finishing my shower, I need to call my mom back just to hear her voice. Just to know she’s safe. Dad is with her, but whenever a case sits bothering my mind, I need to reassure myself the people who are important to me are safe and I don’t need to be worrying about them too. There’s not enough room in my brain for that. If Xavier were here, he would have some smart comment to say about my brain being so small it can only think of one thing at a time. I can hear his laughter in my head, the bastard.

  Phone call with Mom. Tick.

  Dressed, wallet and key card packed in my pocket. Tick.

  Room presentable in case I’m lucky enough to bring back a guest. Tick.

  Ready to head out and hit the town. Tick.

  I’m starving, so looking forward to a big juicy steak and a nice cold beer. Not one to drink too hard, beer is usually my chosen poison for a night out on the town. Especially in a city I’m not familiar with. The cop in me likes to be in control at all times. I want to be able to remember every detail in the morning. You never know when it will be important to someone.

  There have been a couple of times I’ve had a really bad day and spent the night drinking with Xavier to simply forget. I only ever do it in his apartment or mine. I’m safe there and nothing can go wrong. There have been a few mornings I‘ve woken up on his couch with a hangover from hell but it’s not often. He’s the only person I trust myself to really let go with. I trust him with my life. For all my control issues, I trust him to keep me safe and help me release my demons every once in a while.

  ***

  There is one thing you can guarantee if you get a group of cops together in a steak house: it will never be quiet. We’re an opinionated bunch who are never wrong. Especially when it comes to sports. For the last two hours, we’ve been debating the NFL dream team we would pick from the current season’s players. While they all argued over every single position like we were the ones paying the players and signing the contracts, I knew I was ready to bail on them. There’s only so much testosterone and alcohol you can take some nights.

  “I’m out, guys. Was great meeting you all and thanks for the invite and helping me survive the three days of hell in the conference.” There’s a round of hearty laughing and hand-shaking that follows. “I’ve got plans for the rest of the night so it’s time for me to head off. Have a good night and safe travels home, boys.” I walk towards the exit while they’re all yelling different comments on what plans I have and what she looks like. I just keep walking, smiling to myself. I don’t care what they’re saying or thinking.

  Big cities like this are a great place to visit, just not a place to live. I’ve had my time working in big cities, and the life of a policeman overshadows the joy you get from the high-paced social life. I’m quite happy where I’m stationed now. Don’t get me wrong, crime happens everywhere, but I need places around me where I can go to let the stress out and just slow down the brain. Even it is just for a few hours. Runs up the mountain in fresh air are just what I need some days.

  “Where to, man?” the taxi driver asks as I slide into the back seat. Glancing down to my phone, I check the address again while telling him where I’m headed. It sounds like a cool bar and not far from where I’m staying. He pulls out into the night traffic which is full of yellow taxis and cars that all seem to be in a hurry to get somewhere but none of which are moving very fast.

  “Are you a local or just visiting?” he asks me as I stare out the window at the thousands of people all going about their business on a Friday night.

  “Just in town for work for a few days and now I’m heading out to party a little. Friday night in the Big Apple, let’s see what fun it brings me.” I get a hearty laugh from the front seat.

  “Be careful what you wish for, this place can swallow you up and spit you out real quick if you’re not careful. There’s all types of fun in this city, so it depends on the kind you’re looking for. Keep your eyes open and your hand on your wallet, that’s my piece of advice.” I know he’s trying to be funny, but I don’t need help being on high alert around people. Large groups of people already keep my senses active, whether I like it or not.

  “Thanks, man, but I’m hoping tonight my eyes are open, but my hands are on something a little more interesting than just my wallet.” We both laugh and then chat about this weekend’s games that are being played in the NFL. It’s the standard go-to conversation for men and even more so taxi drivers who know it’s going to take time to get through the traffic. Part of me is happy to sit in the quiet with no conversation, but I know that’s not going to happen, and the driver seems like a really nice guy. Why not help his night pass quicker too.

  Pulling to the curb outside the bar, I thank my driver and give him a generous tip. I know they don’t get paid much and we should all look after each other in any little way we can.

  Time for fun.

  Let the party begin.

  3

  Lilly

  GRANT IS KIDDING HIMSELF if he thi
nks I’m going straight to the theatre from the airport.

  I don’t care how quick I need to be, I’ve got to freshen up, change and fix my make-up.

  There is no way I’m going to see a Broadway show in the plain clothes I flew in. Not in this lifetime. I want to be dressed and ready to take on the town.

  How easy is it to be a man in these situations? Jeans, button-up shirt and throw on a jacket and you can pass for dressy-casual and fit in at the theatre. No one looks at them any differently whether they’re dressed in a suit or jeans. For a woman, that’s not the case. We are judged on what we’re wearing. I love to dress up and take every opportunity. A trip to the theatre and then out in New York City is something I want to look just right for. So, Grant is just going to have to deal with it.

  “If you’re that worried, you get a taxi straight to the theatre and we’ll meet you there after checking in and changing. I know you’re desperate to see Zara, but it’s not like they’re going to give our seats away. Stop stressing!” The scowl across his face tells me he’s not impressed.

  “Lilly. What does it matter what you’re wearing?” I gasped in shock as Alesha and Xavier both burst out laughing. Grant’s words are like a knife stabbing straight through my heart.

  “How long have you known me, Grant? Oh… that’s right, my whole frigging life! I can’t believe you would even contemplate what you just said in respect to me. You sure know how to piss me off.” I can feel the hairs on the back of my neck standing up with irritation. Next time I come to see Zara, there’s no way I’m flying with him. He’s a pain in the ass. Not sure what Zara sees in him, but I know one thing, she can definitely have him. At least she keeps him out of my life and that’s a good thing, otherwise we might kill each other. Luke used to be his target but now it seems to have moved onto me since Luke and Zoe have gotten their lives together. Maybe that’s what I need, a man in my life, and that will make him back off.

  Who am I kidding? No thanks.

  I don’t need anyone telling me what to do.

  I control my life just fine and know how to party without the help of man in it trying to make me settle down. Not going to happen any time soon.

  That I can guarantee.

  “Calm down, stop being a drama queen. Do whatever you want. I’m going straight to the theatre because I don’t want to be late for Zara. When you manage to put your face on or whatever’s so important, see if you can manage to join me there. I’m sure she would love you to see the show after you flew all this way.” His sarcasm and gruffness roll off him, in every word that leaves his lips. He makes me angry but also laugh at the same time. I can’t help it. He tries to hold his frown, but as soon as I start to snicker, he relaxes his shoulders slightly and puts his arm around me, sighing.

  “You are more like me than you realize, Lil. Lord help the man you finally choose to marry. He’s going to be either very patient or more controlling and stubborn than I am, and that’s saying something. You’re going to keep him jumping, that’s for sure. Now, can I go and see my girlfriend please, Princess Lilly?” He leans down and kisses the top of my head as the bags start to come around the carousel. I know, being my brother, he will attend to my suitcase and then will complain about how heavy it is as we make our way to the taxi stand.

  “You might think I’m hard work, but I pity Zara too. Have you looked in the mirror lately? You’re just as big a pain in the ass as I am, so suck it up and let’s get moving.” I feel the deep laugh that is rattling his chest against my body. This is what Grant and I do. We are constantly at each other, pushing buttons, as only a brother and sister can get away with. Regardless, I know he will always be there for me and I love him for just being him, in all his controlling ways. That’s what family does, loves each other despite the flaws.

  Alesha and I head towards the doors that leave the airport. The boys are behind us dragging the bags, Xavier patiently listening to Grant carry on about the time. The airport is busy and there’s a lineup for taxis which I can hear Grant huffing about behind me. Little does he realize that while he was inside lecturing me, I was ordering an Uber that’s just pulling up to the pickup area now.

  “That red SUV over there is our Uber, so less talking and more walking, boys.” Alesha rolls her eyes at me and follows along, not game to take sides. She and Xavier will be glad to get rid of Grant and I later tonight to get quiet time to themselves. “They’ll drop us to the hotel with the bags first and then drop you straight to the theatre, Grant. Does that sound okay?”

  “Thanks, sis.” He gives me a hint of a small smile when I look back over my shoulder at him. Thinking about it, I think he might be right; I’m the only one who knows how to tame Grant and cut off the bossiness before it escalates. It could be how similar we are deep down. Not that I will ever admit that out loud to anyone.

  Looking at my watch, even I’m getting a little worried at how little time I’m going to have to get ready. This Friday traffic is ridiculous. We would have been fine if the flight hadn’t been delayed on take-off, and then of course that put us out of sequence when trying to land. Next time I’m taking the whole day off and flying out earlier than everyone else. I hate being rushed to get ready for a night on the town. I like to enjoy the process of dressing up.

  “The hotel is just up this road a little, so we’re nearly there,” the Uber driver announces. Thankful, I gather my handbag in my lap and get ready to jump out as soon as he pulls to a stop. This is the time I will curse how big and heavy my bag is. Grant tells the driver he’ll get my bag out and then be back in to continue on to the theatre. Grant only has a small bag that he’ll take with him. He stays at Zara’s place and doesn’t need much. Either he has clothes he leaves here, or he doesn’t plan on wearing any for most of the weekend. Whatever the answer, I don’t need to know.

  My heels clipping across the floor in a fast beat let people know I’m coming and that I’m on a mission. Several people clear out of my way as I march towards the check-in counter. I have no problem telling the desk clerk that we’re in a hurry and giving him a little extra cleavage as I lean forward on the desk to help him get us checked in quicker.

  “There are your keys, Miss Stevenson, and I will be here tonight and tomorrow night if you need any extra help with anything at all. Here is my card so you know who to ask for.” His hand lingers a little too long on mine while handing it to me. He’s kind of cute and could be worth a little chat later tonight on my way back into the hotel. But for now, I’m in a hurry and don’t have time for the chit chat.

  “Sorry,” I look down at the card, “Ford, I’m in a hurry. Maybe we can chat later.” I turn and rush towards the elevator where Xavier and Alesha are already pushing the button. I hand them the key for their room, that’s next door to mine, as we all step into the elevator.

  “Lilly, no joke, you have ten minutes until you need to be back at the elevator ready to go. I don’t want to miss the start of the show. Plus, you saw how bad the traffic is. I mean it. Be quick.” Alesha tries to put on the stern big sister voice. If I had more time, I’d joke with her, but I just mumble yes as I rush into my room, closing the door behind me. I don’t have time to check it out, I just drop my bag to the floor and start grabbing what I need. I was going to save my red dress for tomorrow night, but it’s on top so that’s what I’m wearing now. Hopefully, wherever we end up after the show, there are some hot guys who will appreciate this little sexy number. With all the carry on today with Grant, then rushing here and listening to Alesha be the big sister, I’m honestly just needing a drink. I could really use a night out letting loose. Theatre first, play later.

  Just as I’m spraying a fresh round of perfume after reapplying my make-up, there’s bashing on my door. Far out. I get it. We need to go. I grab my bag and phone and curse on my way to the door about damn big brothers and sisters.

  ***

  Walking into the foyer of the theatre, the ten-minute warning bell is chiming. Secretly deep down, I’m breathing a sigh
of relief that we made it on time. I didn’t want to disappoint Zara or Grant by missing the first part of the show. Moving down the aisle towards the front rows, I can see Grant fixated on his phone. Shuffling into the seats, he startles a little, quickly closing down his phone screen. There is a smoldering smile plastered on his face.

  “What you are you doing, big brother?” I sit down next to him giving him a little jab with my elbow. “A little sexting with Zara would be my guess.”

  “Lilly,” he says in a low growl. That tells me in an instant. Back off, you’re in dangerous territory. Also confirms I was right which makes me smile.

  “Touchy,” I whisper as the lights dim down and the music starts up. My mind is lost in the beauty of the show and the talent of watching Zara do what she has trained so hard to achieve. She obviously loves it so much, just looking at the happiness on her face.

  The show is over before I know it, I was so mesmerized by it that I didn’t realize it was coming to an end. There is something about a Broadway show that just takes you to another place and stops you thinking of anything else for a short while.

  Waiting for Zara to come out from backstage, Grant paces with pent-up energy. You can tell how much he misses her. Usually, I might be happy to be the annoying sister, but right at this moment, I’m happily watching his face light up as she comes towards him at a quick walk that’s almost a run. I never imagined he would be one for a big public display of affection, but he wraps his arms around her and kisses her like their lives depend on it. There are sparks and electricity flying around them as they are tuned out from the rest of the world. They only see each other in this moment.