That was it. I was done.
Spent.
Finished.
Until I rolled over to see Jillian watching me with that look in her eyes. That smile on her face was enough for my cock to spring right back to attention again. “I need a breather.” I chuckled as she started to straddle my waist. “We’ve been at it for hours,” I reminded Jillian, although her nipples looked super inviting.
Jillian placed her small hands against my cheeks. “We’re making up for lost time, baby.” She slid her lips over mine as a ripple of pain ran across her face.
“What’s wrong? Are you okay?”
“I’m a little sore.”
I gripped her hips. “Where?” I tried to move her from my body, but she shook her head.
“You did warn me that I wouldn’t be able to walk today, didn’t you?” She smirked.
“Are you serious right now?” I had only been kidding.
Jillian swatted my chest. “Dead serious. We haven’t stopped unless you count peeing and getting something to drink.” She let out a sigh of happiness. “Maybe we should take a little break. Have something to eat and get a little rest. When do you need to be home?” She slipped from my body only to snuggle next to me on the bed.
“I told my parents I would be home this afternoon.” Jillian’s fingers traced the contours of my chest lightly. “Want to come over? Visit with Hazel?” I eased myself onto my side. “Tell everyone the good news?” I gripped her left hand to look at the ring on her finger, admiring how perfect it looked.
Jillian swallowed nervously. “Do you...really think that’s a good idea? I mean, you’re still technically married to Madison, and—”
I cut her off by crushing our lips together. “Confession, baby.” I wasn’t sure when I started calling her that, but Jillian seemed to like it. “I’ve had that ring for a long time,” I whispered as she stared up with me with her big, green eyes.
“How long?” Her voice came out soft and breathy.
I glanced up at the ceiling, noticing for the first time the skylight above her bed because I had been buried between her legs. “I was going to ask you before you left for New York,” I admitted. “You picked this place because of that, huh?” I jutted my chin upward.
“Don’t change the subject, Hutch.” Jillian gripped my chin between her index and middle finger. “When were you planning on giving this to me? Before I left for New York?” When I nodded, her face crumpled and tears filled her eyes.
I rolled over. “Don’t do that.” I shook my head. “Hey, Jilly, don’t cry. I didn’t tell you the truth to avoid upsetting you.” I brushed the tears from her face. “I knew that it was a crazy idea back then because we were both in such weird places, myself being super fucked up, but I often wondered what would have happened if I had. I wasn’t sure if I even had the balls to ask you.” Again, Jillian’s eyes grew watery. “Why are you so upset?” I whispered, gathering her into my arms.
“All the time we lost.” Jillian leaned her head against my chest. “Because of me being so selfish and afraid of what would happen if I said goodbye to you instead of growing a pair.” She sniffed.
“Baby...” Her eyes turned up to mine.
“We can’t change the past, only work on the present.” I whispered.
Jillian’s lips twitched. “You’re perfect, you know that?” She pressed her lips against my pec, and my dick thumped against her side. “Oh, did you like that?”
“Jills, we were taking a break.”
“Were we?”
I gripped her arms before she could mount me again. “Yes, we were, and I need to give it a rest. I don’t think I have anything left in me. Remember, I’m older than you,” I teased as Jillian’s plump lips turned up into a full-fledge smile. “Come with me this afternoon,” I pleaded.
“Alright,” she agreed with a blinding smile. “Did you just call yourself old, Hutch Kelly?” Laughter hung in her voice, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t like it.
“I said I was older. There’s a difference.”
Jillian giggled. “I like it when you call me baby,” she admitted sheepishly. “But not as much as when you call me Jilly.” Her hand slipped between my legs to wrap around my now incredibly hard-to-miss erection.
So much for taking a break.
I groaned as Jillian stroked my length, then she stopped to look up at me, adoration shining on her face. “I love you, Hutch.”
I took in Jillian’s flushed cheeks, her messy dark hair, and realized that after all this time, she was still it for me. From the moment I had saved her on the beach all those years ago, Jillian had been the one I wanted for the rest of my life. We might have taken different turns, gone on different paths, but they both had led us right back to where we belonged. With each other. I reached down to cup her face with both hands. “I love you too, Jilly,” I declared before taking her mouth with mine.
Epilogue
Jillian
Brooklyn and I sat knee-to-knee, with our shoulders pressed together, and hands clutched with each other as we watched Rand take the checked flag at the final race of the NASCAR season sitting up in Rand’s pit box. We sprang from our seats at the same time we heard Rand and the rest of his team screaming through our headphones. Not only did he just win the race, but he also won the championship, and Hutch had helped him do that.
A couple of days after Hutch had proposed to me, Rand had called him up and asked him if he was interested in working for him. It wasn’t just any job either; it was the job of crew chief since the one that Rand originally had needed to step down on short notice due to an illness. It was also the main reason that Rand had been trying so desperately hard to get a hold of Hutch while he had been in recovery. Despite having only met once, and sharing a few texts since they had met, Rand only wanted to hire Hutch.
It turns out that Rand had been so impressed with Hutch’s work when he came to visit that he had been trying to get him into the business, and when the job had opened up, he wasted no time in reaching out. I had to poke Hutch a little to go check out the job, take a trip down to North Carolina since that was where the job was based and where we would be living, but once we realized what a big deal this would be for us, as a family, Hutch jumped at the opportunity.
I loved North Carolina, and so did Hazel. She took to it like a fish in water, and I think part of that had to do with RJ Shepard, Brooklyn and Rand’s son, who took her under his wing, and made sure she was never left out of anything. She was instantly included with his circle of friends, and that was a big relief for both of us. I had been able to sell the ballet studio rather quickly, and even though I missed dancing, I didn’t miss it enough to start up a business again. I taught a couple of classes at a local studio in North Carolina, which was honestly much easier and a lot less stressful. The kids were great, the pay wasn’t too bad; and Sully told me she had been talking me up to some of the other NASCAR wives, mentioning how they should come down to check it out. One thing I quickly learned was how supportive the racing community was.
“You should go be with your husband,” I told Brooklyn once we had climbed down from the pit box, nudging her playfully. “This is kind of a big deal.”
Brooklyn grinned at me. “You think?” She glanced over her shoulder where Rand’s team surrounded him and some of the other drivers, had started to gather, congratulating him. Then she hugged me and took off to go to her man. I chuckled as I watched, happy for my friend, my man, and Rand, who still scared the shit out of me despite giving us a fresh start, and watched as Hutch caught my eye. He was still up in the pit box, looking serious and a little nervous because there would be interviews coming his way, too. He had his headphones down around his neck, and his trucker hat that bared Rand’s number on it, on backward as he scanned over the screens in front of him. Crew chief was a big deal. He had to work with the spotters, keep the driver focused on the track, analyze lap times, fuel mileage, pit-stop strategy, and everything else that went on during the race.
Any mistake, no matter how small, could ruin the chance for a win; never mind a great finish.
I noticed how handsome he looked in the shirt he wore with Rand’s sponsor and number decorated all over it, the tan he had acquired now that he was out in the sun so much more prominent that ever. His blond hair curled slightly under his ears and I felt my heart swell with pride. Hutch glanced around the still busy and packed track before he looked down to catch my eye, bringing his hand up to his heart to form the sign he always gestured to tell me he loved me. I blew him a kiss before he quickly climbed down so he could grab me around the waist.
“Hey,” he whispered planting a kiss against my lips. He swung me around before he gently placed me back on my feet.
I stared up at him with hearts in my eyes. “Hey yourself,” I teased, watching the smile spread across his perfect face. “You know, they’re going to want you in the pictures, baby, you’re part of the team,” I reminded him.
As much fun as Hutch had helping with the cars, he didn’t like being in the spotlight. He had done countless interviews since Rand had started dominating the series, and Hutch had told me how much he hated every single minute being in front of the camera or behind the microphone. The asked him questions they shouldn’t, pushed too much, got too personal, but Hutch was always professional, polite, and courteous. Only once did Rand tell someone to fuck off when they tried to pry into Hutch’s background, when they were being interviewed together, and I thought for sure Rand was going to lay the guy out for it. I wouldn’t call them best friends, but they were close.
“I know.”
“You okay?”
Hutch still had his dark days. The ones where he could hardly get out of bed, didn’t want to talk to me or anyone else, but luckily, those days were few and far between. Megan had recommended a fantastic therapist whom Hutch saw in North Carolina when he could, but had Zoom meetings when he was on the road. I wasn’t sure how much Rand knew about Hutch’s past, if anything at all, but something told me his past was just as dark, maybe even darker.
“I’m a little overwhelmed, but otherwise really fucking good, Jilly,” he assured me, pulling me into another hug. “This is insane though, right?” His voice rumbled against my face, and I could tell he was trying hard to control his emotions. “That I helped Rand Shepard win his first championship.” He pulled back to look down into my eyes. “When this is over, the celebrating, everything else that comes with it”—he pressed a hand against my cheek—“we’re setting a date.”
Hutch’s divorce with Madison was finalized just a couple of days ago as well as her giving up her any parental rights to Hazel. How someone could do that to their own flesh and blood, I would never know, but I was happy to say Hutch asked me to adopt her as my own, which I agreed to without a second thought. Hazel already started calling me mom months ago without any convincing from our sides, and I loved her like my own daughter.
“Are you sure?” I wanted to marry Hutch just as much I needed the air to breathe. “I don’t want to rush you into another marriage if you’re not ready.”
Hutch only smiled at me. “Don’t ask questions you already know the answer to.” His mouth found mine as we both heard someone call his name. “I fucking love you so much, Jilly.” He confessed.
“I love you too, Hutch,” I said, with butterflies racing through my veins. “Hey, uh, how do you feel about more kids?” I blurted as my nerves got the best of me.
Hutch looked confused. “I don’t...holy shit.” His hand went to his hat before he dropped it against my stomach. “Wait, are you saying you’re pregnant?” When I nodded, he asked, “How far along?”
“I don’t know yet. I realized yesterday that I was late, so I took a couple of tests this morning while you were busy with Rand at the driver’s meeting. They all came back positive.” I was scared that Hutch wouldn’t want another child. Not yet anyway. I knew how much he loved Hazel and enjoyed being a father, but he had so much going on right now.
“We’re having a baby.” His voice was hardly a whisper.
I couldn’t tell if Hutch was happy about this or what was going on inside his head right now. “Are you okay with this? I know we hadn’t really talked about having children...” I chewed nervously on my bottom lip.
“You’re having my baby, Jilly, what’s not to be happy about.” Hutch kissed the top of my head again, and that’s when I saw the giant smile on his face that lighted his entire features. “All of this?” He opened his arms wide around us. “All of this would never have happened without you. You are the light to my dark.” He pulled me against his chest for a quick hug before he let me go. “Don’t go anywhere because the party is going to be wild!” He jogged off to whoever was calling his name, turning to wave at me, and I watched with a full heart as he high-fived some of the crewmembers.
“Jillian!” Rand’s voice boomed loud enough to wake the dead. “Get your ass over here!” he demanded, and right at that moment, I almost wished the ground would open up to swallow me whole. “Now, or I’ll come get you myself. You’re part of this too, so get moving.” He waved me over, and I felt my face burn as I started walking with all eyes on me. As I approached the crowd, I saw my future husband waiting for me, my dearest friend smiling with her arms wrapped around her husband, and I realized one thing...
My life was perfect.
The End
A Note from Sundae
I had planned to write a standalone, this is not the book I thought it would be, but Hutch Kelly would not leave me alone. When I try to explain to people my writing, I often say that the characters speak to me. And, that’s just what these two did. I absolutely loved writing Hutch and Jillian’s story more than I thought possible. Hutch was the sullen, gloomy, alpha just waiting to get out, and I’m pretty sure that I love him more than the others (just don’t tell Easton or Rand). I started writing the story right after I finished Cakewalk, in April of 2021, and I didn’t stop until it was done on June 11th, 2021. I felt like I had to get this story out.
I chose to add in Brooklyn and Rand from my first book because Sully is a photographer, and I thought it would be fun to twist them together. Who knows what I could do with their kids further down the line if I feel like it if they start talking to me since I made Hazel and RJ besties. Check out the first two chapters of Picture Perfect at the end of this book if you want to learn more about them. It is currently free on all digital platforms.
If you are waiting for more of the Knights, you don’t have to worry. The third Kingston book is coming in March of 2022. That book is already turning out to be much more than I ever hoped. I can promise you it’s going to be bigger, darker, and not what you’re expecting. If you are a member of my Facebook group then you have seen the spoilers I’ve posted, and have somewhat of an idea about the book.
Once again, thank you for reading this. If you enjoyed this book or even if you didn’t, please take the time to leave a review because it would mean the world to me if you did. Thank you from the bottom of my not so black heart for helping me achieve my dreams.
Acknowledgements
My husband— My rock, my lover, my soulmate, my everything in this world. Thank you for continuing to be the glue that holds me together in the good times, and the bad. The light to my dark. Thank you for being my biggest supporter when I doubt myself, and for loving me when I don't feel like I deserve it. I truly do not deserve you. I cannot wait to take this next step with you no matter how FREAKING scary it might be. This is a set—DO NOT SEPARATE
Laura— Your edits are truly beautiful works of art and I can't thank you enough for taking the time to make my art into yours. I am so glad that you have enjoyed reading the Kingston High series (Cash is getting his book soon I promise), and I hope that you loved reading Hutch's story as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Zainab— From your most precious and patient client, THANK YOU. I appreciate everything you have done to help me become the best version of myself. Go get yourself some blueberry
pancakes because you deserve them before my next mess hits your inbox.
My readers— I have no words. You took a chance on me, an unknown indie author, and decided you liked what you read. I appreciate you all so much. Thank you for sharing my work on social media, loving my boys—Cash— and giving your feedback. Without you, I would not be able to continue to do what I do.
Books N Mood— The teasers, the covers, the promotions... they mean everything to me. Your hard work is much appreciated.
Mom, Ellen, Dea, Sissy, and Debby— Yes, you’re family, but you didn’t need to do all the things you’ve done to help me along the way. Sharing my teasers is one thing, buying my books is totally way beyond what you have to do. I love you all so much for having my back.
Dad— I miss you. I would never let you read my books, but I hope you would be proud of me.
Serena— Reading my books, sharing with your family, and then asking me to sign them is like a dream come true. When I say thank you, I mean it sincerely. Thank you for all you do, and for your service.
About the Author
Sundae Leighton writes romance novels that are sweet with a twist. She got her start writing fan-fiction with her friends in school, but didn't take the plunge to publish her first book (Picture Perfect) until 2020. Born and raised in Connecticut, where she currently resides with her husband and their cats. She sometimes scares herself when she writes things darker than intended, considers coffee the nectar of the Gods, and once ran the NYC marathon (OK - half marathon). When she isn't writing down what the voices in her head tell her to, she likes watching murder shows, NASCAR, and reading romance books with lots of angst.
You can keep in touch with Sundae at sundaeleighton.com and find her on most social media platforms.
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