Copyright © 2024 Shalleen Werboweckyj

All Rights Reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, or by electronic, or any mechanical means. This includes photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except for brief quotations in a book review.

For permissions, contact: shallwobba@gmail.com

This book is a work of fiction, written by a British author, therefore, it is written in British English. This book contains British slang words, swearing, sayings and banter. It also includes British descriptive words and spellings.

Names, characters, places, beliefs and ideas, are all a part of the author’s imagination, and they are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

For updates on new releases, please follow the author on her social media pages. Find her under Shalleen Werboweckyj.

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This book is a standalone contemporary romance. It’s a spicy age gap, he falls first romance. I hope that you enjoy the story of Sorcha and Enzo, and thank you for choosing my book to read.

Shalleen.

IMPORTANT NOTICE.

Mental health is crucial to everyone, and your wellbeing is extremely important to me. So, I must point out the themes which are included within this book. Firstly, this book is intended for Adults aged 18+ only.

This book should not end up in the hands of anyone under the above highlighted age. This book does contain a few slightly darker themes which could be potentially triggering, so I must make you aware of them.

These are as follows:

Description of infidelity/cheating (In the past)

Description of physical, sexual assault (On page)

Use of alcohol & lots of swearing

Sexually explicit scenes - MF

Please take the above warnings seriously, as your mental health is extremely important to me. Thank you for choosing my contemporary, spicy romance. I hope you enjoy the story of Sorcha and Enzo.

Mental Health Matters.

Shalleen.

Dedication

This book is dedicated to all the readers who love an older, tall, dark, and morally grey book boyfriend, who is a little rough around the edges, but ready to travel to the ends of the earth for you.

A book boyfriend who is sweet & loving, yet orders you onto your knees to TTDLAGG & call him ‘Daddy’.

Now, be a good girl and start reading…

Contents

Part 1: Getting Back His Bookworm

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Part 2: The Problem That is Ethan Snow.

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

Chapter 44

Epilogue

About The Author

PROLOGUE

Sorcha

My eyes cracked open, head pounding after consuming way too much bloody wine last night. I rubbed a hand over my face, stretching out, then it hit me, as every single muscle screamed. I was completely naked.

Jesus, fuck. I was naked in his bed... Damn it.

His soft breathing floated into my ears, echoing quietly around the darkened room, and I turned my head to come face to face with the sexiest man in the world. Well, in my eyes. Shit, who was I kidding? Most of the female and male population wanted a piece of him.

He was lying on his stomach, one arm tucked under the pillow, totally and utterly, deliciously naked. Even in sleep, he was hot as bloody sin. As I gazed at him, panic reared its ugly head, and the terror of him seeing me in the cruel, and unforgiving, light of day washed over me. Shit, I was nothing like the usual women he slept with. They were glamorous, perfect, and my body was all natural. Bookish would be how I described myself. Uninteresting and plain. I had never been one of those girls that guys drooled over.

Yes, I had curves in all of the right places, but I also had a squishy stomach and a smattering of stretch marks, so no sexy model body here. Frankly, I knew I would scare the absolute shit out of him when he woke up. I needed to get out of here.

Run.

At all costs, because I didn’t want to see the disgust and regret in his beautiful eyes when he saw me staring back at him.

My body ached as I tentatively slipped from the bed, trying my best not to disturb him. I glanced at his serene face, and god, he was beautiful… and talented.

Fuck, focus woman. Escape, remember.

I swiftly moved around the room, picking up my discarded clothes, eagerly monitoring the sleeping sex god for signs of movement. I dressed in record time, muscles protesting after a lot of sex last night.

I took one last longing look at him, desperately wishing to slip back into his arms, but I shook the stupid thought from my head, and I was out of the door like a silent hurricane. I kept my head down, striding swiftly through a very quiet hotel, trying to ignore the stares of the early morning staff.

I told myself I had done the right thing. My heart had been smashed to smithereens in the past, and it wouldn’t take another battering. So, this was the only defence I had. I needed to protect it at all costs, no matter the consequences.

As I left the warmth of the building, the damp, cold early morning air slammed into me, and I shivered, suddenly very conscious of my attire. I flagged down a taxi, and waited until a black cab pulled up. The doorman opened the door for me, and I smiled up at him.

“Thank you,” I muttered.

“No problem, pretty lady,” he replied. “Have a good day.”

As I settled into the seat, giving the driver my address, I glanced back at the huge, elegant building, then sighed, but deep down I told myself I’d done the right thing…

CHAPTER 1

Four weeks later…

Sorcha

Why did you run like a pathetic coward? That’s what my conscience had continually taunted me with over the last few weeks.

I chewed the tip of my pen furiously, trying to concentrate on the task at hand. It wasn’t the most enthralling book, and my brain wouldn’t bloody shut up. I knew I’d acted cowardly by running away, and I’d done a damned good job of avoiding him since that night too.

A part of my brain screamed that he might have enjoyed waking up with me. The other? Nope, not a chance. But, he was camped out in my memory like heavenly torture. His sexy lips, enticing eyes, talented hands, and that huge fucking cock.

“Sorcha,” and I was yanked back into the present. “I need you,” called my big brother.

I sighed, and dropped the manuscript onto my coffee table, using the pencil as a bookmark. I stood and stretched, then threw the cold remnants of coffee into my mouth. I waltzed over to his door, and I pushed it open, stepping inside. He was on the phone, his bright emerald eyes focused on his open laptop, that little crease between his brows, making me smile. I sat opposite, and waited patiently as he discussed a possible new sign up.

My brother and I shared the same dark hair, his, a shade lighter. Our eyes were very different, however. Mine were a dark chocolate brown. David’s were a deep emerald green. Mum’s eyes.

David had also inherited the dashing Barnes looks, but me? They seemed to have passed by me, flying right over my head.

He finally wrapped up his call, then fixed his eyes on mine. “Only two for you in physical form. The rest are waiting in your email.”

“Aren’t I the lucky one,” I replied with a smile.

David stood and walked around to the front of his desk. He leaned against it, gazing down at me.

“You okay, little Barnes?” he asked softly.

“Should I not be?” I questioned, sitting back in the chair.

“I’m just checking in on my little sister. Am I not allowed to do that?”

Since losing our parents he had become fiercely protective of me, and I did appreciate it, but sometimes it was a tad irritating.

“I guess you are,” I replied.

“You’ve been quieter in recent weeks. And enjoying more time proofing at home,” he said.

I shifted where I sat, rolling my eyes, but secretly? I’d been doing my best to avoid a certain someone.

“I’m fine, David. I promise. Usual time scales?” I asked, and he smiled with a nod.

My brother could read me like an open book ever since we were little, and it drove me nuts. But, he also knew when to change the subject. Still, there was a strange twinkle in his eyes today that put me on edge.

As he sat behind his desk, he laced his fingers together on the surface, and fixed his eyes on mine.

“You know you can come to me if anything is bothering you, little Barnes?”

“I know that, big brother. And I won’t hesitate if I need to,” I replied, frowning a little at his words.

“Good. Just needed you to know that,” and he patted the two manuscripts, sliding them across to me.

I stood, picked up the two rather thin books, then turned to leave. “Thanks, David. And I love you,” and I walked to the door.

“Love you right back Sorcha,” he replied.

I threw him a grin, walked back to him, and I kissed his cheek. “Lunch on you?” I asked, and he chuckled.

“Fine. Just don’t go overboard on price,” he replied.

“Promise,” and I left his office, not looking where I was going.

And bang…

I slammed right into a warm, yet hard wall of muscle, and smacked my face and nose with a thud.

“Jesus, fuck, ow,” fell out of me.

“Fuck,” came an all too familiar, sexy voice.

My spine locked, panic flying into my throat, threatening to cut off my air supply. My eyes dropped to the floor as my heart thundered in my chest, and I rubbed my nose, not daring to look up at the divine man in front of me.

“Hello, Sorcha Barnes,” he drawled. “What a delicious way of bumping into you… finally.”

Enzo bloody Fuentes… Shit, shit, shitty bollocks.

Famous, sexy, extremely successful novelist. People knew him, not only for his bestselling books, but for his womanising ways. He was a player. A man whore extraordinaire. But this particular man whore? Well, I had intimate knowledge of him. As he was my early morning dash from the hotel room four weeks ago.

This sexy guy standing directly in front of me? I had the biggest damned crush on him. Ever since he waltzed into this publishing house that first day, and I hated myself for it.

“Sorry,” I muttered, trying to step around him.

Instead, his hand shot out, and he grabbed my wrist, halting my steps, and a little gasp escaped my lips.

“Wait,” he exclaimed.

Something in his tone caused me to look up, right into those enticing dark brown eyes, and that was a huge bloody mistake. My entire body awoke from its lustful slumber, and it was instantly screaming for his hands, and his talented mouth and dick.

A frown appeared, however, at the strange expression on his handsome face. Usually, they were filled with cocky arrogance, and a self assured sparkle. Today? There was a hint of genuine panic. I dropped my gaze again, staring at my feet.

“Wait, Sorcha. Please?”

My heart was racing at a million miles an hour, but the touch of his hand caused my breath to catch, because it felt so fucking amazing. His eyes dropped to my chest, which was rising and falling at an obscene rate of knots, and I saw something flicker to life in his eyes.

Thanks for bloody nothing, body. Traitor.

“I’m fine, thanks,” I said, trying to remain calm, and failing miserably.

One thing Enzo Fuentes wasn’t, however?

Stupid.

He was a very intelligent guy, not to be underestimated one tiny bit. The intensity of his gaze made me wish for a black hole to open up and swallow me, as I felt my cheeks burning profusely. I was clearly flustered, and it was blatantly obvious that the mere presence of him did things to me.

“Seems you are avoiding me, Sorcha?” he asked, one brow arched seductively.

I glanced around, but no-one else seemed to be paying the two of us any attention at all. I brought my eyes back to Enzo, and he was still staring right into my bloody soul.

“No I’m not,” I retorted, then winced at the harshness of my voice.

His hand released me as though I’d physically slapped him, so I stalked back to my little reading corner, unaware that Enzo was following me. I came to a stop at my small reading armchair, then gasped as I felt the heat of his body behind me.

His breath ghosted the back of my neck, causing goosebumps to erupt over my hot skin, and I had to briefly close my eyes, as I desperately wanted to kiss him, have him pin me against the damned wall, and fuck me all over again.

“Sorcha? Why are you avoiding me?” he whispered.

I whirled around, coming face to chest with the hot as hell writer. His finger touched my chin, tilting my face to meet his own.

“You are avoiding me aren’t you?” he asked.

“I’m not,” I lied.

“You are. Ever since you ran from me that morning. After a night filled with a lot of amazing fucking.”

“Shush,” I hissed, my eyes darting around the room.

Dressed in his signature charcoal grey suit, white shirt, looking so damn delicious, his own brown eyes studied mine. His expression changed, brows slowly rising, and my stomach churned with nervous energy.

In that single moment, he guessed. His eyes sparkled with wickedness, and I wanted that black hole to come back.

Shit, shit, shitty fuck.

“You haven’t told anyone about that night? About all the amazing sex we shared” he whispered into my ear, his voice turning into a deep, sensual caress.

“Wh-what do you want?” I croaked, dropping my gaze.

He didn’t speak immediately, making me glance back up at him, and his smile had turned predatory, causing my spine to stiffen. He leaned closer, and I sucked in a breath.

“Round two, little bookworm,” he growled.

His lips ghosted the sensitive skin of my neck, then my lips. He stood tall, turned around, and disappeared into my brother’s office.

Round two?... What the actual fuck?

Enzo

It was as clear as day. Sorcha was attracted to me. Every little gasp, sigh, and the rapid rise and fall of her chest? The blush on her cheeks, and the way her pupils dilated? It gave her away. But, she had run from my hotel room a month ago, and that had hurt way more than I had expected it to. She didn’t seem to realise how much, and now I needed to know why.

As I left her standing there, all flushed and breathless, it confused me. I’d hoped she had wanted to wake up snuggled in my arms. But, she’d been avoiding me, even though she loved my touches. I wanted Sorcha Barnes. Needed her.

David frowned as I entered, my hand flying through my hair as I grinned at him. I turned to close the door, and two of her friends were crowding her, seemingly interrogating her.

“Deadlines are not to be ignored, Enzo,” David snapped.

“I understand that,” I replied, leaning against the now closed door. “I didn’t need to be ordered into the headmasters office for a dressing down.”

He rolled his eyes and sat upright, visibly annoyed. “Very funny, Fuentes. Just give me your word that you’ll hit this one?” he asked.

I gave him my famous smile and winked. “I give you my word. There’s just a few tweaks here and there. I’ll be ready.”

“Let my editors do that?”

“No. No eyes on it until it goes to proofs,” I snapped.

“Fine,” he exclaimed, holding up his hands in defeat.

No-one got their eyes on an imperfect story. It was a superstition, and I would never break this one after the first book of mine sold out. No other eyes had touched that one, and it was a bestseller.

“Go, write, edit, just no drama, please?” he said. “But get it in on time.”

“No drama, and noted,” then I gave him my winning smile once more, and left his office.

Unfortunately, Sorcha was gone, but her man friend watched me with interest. I gave him a polite nod and strode to the stairs. I wanted to see my little bookworm again. That night had been heavenly. She was like no other woman I’d ever been with, and I needed to be with her again. I craved her like no other woman, and I needed to tell her that. But, she was fucking avoiding me.

The arrogant Enzo fucked them then left, never getting attached. I ghosted all women, yet Sorcha was different. After that sensational night, waking up without her had been fucking shitty. Now? I wanted no-one but her. Sorcha Barnes was my endgame, and I wouldn’t give up until she was mine.

I walked to my car, and my phone started singing from my pocket. I unlocked my door as I yanked the mobile from my pocket, and I slipped into the driver’s seat.

“Hola, Madden.”

“Where are you?”

“Why?”

“I need a fucking drink, and some pussy.”

There was seriously something wrong with one of my closest male friends, so I stuck the key into the ignition.

“Talk, Blaine.”

“The bitch is getting married,” he hissed.

“Where are you?”

“Pub.”

“I’m in my car. I’ll meet you there.”

“Want some pussy company?”

“No,” I answered way too damned fast.

“Why the fuck not?”

I flinched, but rubbed the stubble on my chin. He wasn’t ready to know about my bookworm, so I ignored his tone.

“I’m on my way. And no random women had better be there?”

“Fine, miserable twat.”

I hung up, started the car, and headed for the one place I knew he’d be. Madden Blaine was also a very successful author.

Gifted.

But, his reputation made mine look saintly, and now I needed to make sure he didn’t do anything extremely idiotic.

CHAPTER 2

Three Months Later

Sorcha

After a pretty fun weekend with my best friends, I was now skulking around near the lift, checking that the coast was clear of a certain hot and sexy novelist. There were no signs, so I hoisted my bag onto my shoulder, took a deep breath, then walked up the stairs, and into my brother’s publishing office.

I dropped my heavy bag onto the large coffee table, then put down my travel mug filled with steaming coffee. I headed for my brother’s office, and he waved me inside. I smirked at the frown gracing his brows, but he pinched his nose as he spoke.

“Thanks… Yes. Give him more coffee… I’ll send a car… Thank you, bye,” and he hung up.

I sat in the chair opposite his desk, and he fixed me with his lovely emerald eyes. “You know I love you little Barnes, right?”

“And I don’t like it when you start a sentence that way, David,” I replied.

“Can you go and retrieve our wayward Enzo Fuentes from the police station?”

“What? Why me? Where’s Harrison?” I fired at him.

He let out his frustrated groan, and stood up, staring out of the window. “It’s Harrison’s day off. Enzo and Madden were arrested last night for lewd behaviour. I need you to take the car and pick our author up.”

“Madden?”

“He was picked up ten minutes ago.”

“Enzo too incapable of getting a bloody taxi?”

“No. He asked for you.”

“Jesus, why?”

“He’s calmer around you.”

“Bollocks,” and I stood up, panic crawling over my skin like hordes of tiny insects.

I had succeeded at never being alone with Mr Enzo Fuentes since that night, and the incident here three months ago, and I didn’t want to go and pick up the sexy bloody writer. David walked to my side, turning me around to face him.

“Who was she?” I muttered.

“There was no ‘she’ involved. The two of them thought it would be hilarious to streak naked down High street at three am,” he replied.

“Can’t you go?”

“Why are you trying to wriggle out of it?”

“I’m not, I just don’t…” but I stopped.

David kissed my forehead, then he leaned against the desk. “I can’t leave the office, Sorcha. So, please go for me?”

“Fine,” I muttered. “But I need a bloody bonus. I’m not a taxi service.”

“Thanks little Barnes.”

I started for the door, then paused, hand on the handle. “No women?” I asked, and my brother arched his brow at me, a very naughty twinkle dancing behind his eyes.

“Nope. They just drank their weight in alcohol, and proceeded to remove all of their clothes and go for a bloody run. Thank you, and I appreciate this. Lunch on me?” he replied.

“Damn right,” I said, and I left his office.

My heart, however, was racing at a million miles a second. I scooped up my bag, but my head was a mess, stomach churning with nerves. I’d done a spectacular job at avoiding Enzo, and never being alone with him. But the fierce intensity of his gaze had always confused the shit out of me. I’d caught him on more than one occasion too since our steamy night together. I took the stairs, and deep breaths as I tried to still my heart rate. This was the first time I was about to be alone with Mr Enzo Fuentes, and I was bloody terrified.

I paused outside the familiar building, before pushing the front door open to the police station. I walked on trembling legs towards the custody desk, and the sexy officer was sitting there, reading a book of all things.

Brandon was built like a mountain with dark brown hair, all soft and inviting. Eyes the shade of autumn leaves, and the most pussy fluttering smile I’d ever encountered… Well, except for Enzo.

As I appeared in front of him, he leaned those enticing tattooed forearms on top of the desk. He let loose his dangerously sexy smile, and his eyes sparkled with a familiar warmth.

“Hi, Sorcha. Where’s Harrison today?” he asked in his deep, husky voice.

My cheeks instantly burned, as my body went all sorts of crazy, but I smiled back. “All by myself today, Officer,” I replied.

“Looking beautiful as always,” he said with a wink. “And please, call me Brandon.”

“Well, erm, okay. The criminal down there, Brandon?” I asked.

“Usual cell. Usual charm. Think we should start charging him rent,” he said, chuckling.

I snorted into a giggle, my eyes dropping to the floor before coming back to him. “Maybe you should. Can I go and collect him?”

“Yeah, he’s done his time, and sobered up.”

“Thanks,” and I walked down the familiar corridor.

As I reached officer’s Luke and Diane, I heard his sensual voice, and I bit down on my lip, secretly dreading this whole encounter.

“Hi,” I said, and the two officers turned around to smile at me.

“Darling,” came that sexy voice. “My rescuer.”

Diane smirked, hooking her fingers through the straps of her vest. “Rescuer indeed. Stop getting naked in public, and you won’t need rescuing,” she stated, winking at me.

They moved aside, and I stepped to the open cell door. And holy fucking crap buckets. Enzo was standing, all wrapped up in black trousers, a snug, fitted black t-shirt, highlighting his muscular physique. His dark hair was all messy, and unruly stubble adorned his jaw, making him so much more damned irresistible.

Holy fucking crap. Delicious… Snap out of it, lady. You’re not his type.

Those dark brown eyes found mine, and he threw me that devastating smile. Memories of that night invaded my memory. His lips on my skin, hands touching and caressing me, and his huge dick pleasuring the bloody life out of me.

“You’re blushing, Sorcha,” Enzo purred as he sauntered over to me. “And all alone, for once.”

“Knock it off, Enzo,” I huffed. “Is he free to go?”

“All yours, lovely lady,” Luke answered.

Enzo seemed to tense a little, then his eyes sparkled with mirth, and he took Diane’s hand, kissing the back.

“I do adore a woman in uniform,” he drawled.

I had not one bloody clue what came over me, but my hand shot out, and I smacked his shoulder, snapping at him.

“Stop bloody flirting for one damned second, Jesus.”

He instantly dropped her hand, and he whirled around to stare at me. I silently cursed, and winced as he looked right into my eyes. Without turning away, he said goodbye.

“Adios, hermosa. Luke.”

“Behave, and keep your bloody clothes on in future, Fuentes,” she replied.

“Should I, Sorcha?” he asked, making me gawk at him in surprise.

My whole body was misfiring at the way he was gazing down at me, but I rolled my eyes, crossing my arms over my chest, trying to calm my breathing.

“Well, yeah, duh,” I scoffed in feigned annoyance, and his sexy mouth curled up into that signature smile.

I poked him in the shoulder, and he winked at the two officers. “Come on,” I muttered, and we started down the corridor, towards the front of the building.

“You okay, Sorcha?” he asked, and my brain failed me all over again.

Thanks a fucking lot for that.

“Do you ever stop flirting?” I fired at him.

What the fuck, Barnes?

I clamped my stupid mouth shut, knowing exactly what that sounded like, so I walked a little faster, dying to get back to the office.

“Why? Are you jealous?” he called after me.

My eyes flew back to his face, and he seemed to be searching mine. For what? I had no idea, but it was a very intense stare.

“Of what?” I snapped.

My eyes widened as he physically flinched, gritted his teeth, and turned away from me. He picked up his pace, marching on ahead, so I had to get my own feet moving just to keep up with him. As we reached the front desk, I noticed that the cute officer Brandon wasn’t there.

“Hey, Sorcha?”

I halted my footsteps, noticing Enzo freeze as he was about to reach the front doors. I glanced around, and Brandon was walking over to me looking a little flustered. Enzo made a low, subtle noise, which sounded very much like a growl. He leant against the glass, arms crossed over his chest, and he glared at the officer with a look that confused the hell out of me.

Disdain? Jealousy?... What the hell was going on with him?

“I wanted to ask you, Sorcha, well, “ and his hand went to the back of his neck. “Can I take you for a drink some time?”

Enzo scoffed rudely, and he actually rolled his eyes, making me both annoyed and strangely intrigued by his odd behaviour. I looked up at the very sexy officer, and he was gazing down at me with such warmth, and I couldn’t halt the dopey grin that adorned my lips.

“I’d like that,” fell out of me, and his entire face lit up.

“Really?”

“Sure.”

“Can I have your number?”

His strong hand appeared from nowhere. Enzo gripped my arm, and I was forcefully dragged out of the building.

“You’re the police. Track her down if you’re serious,” Enzo yelled over his shoulder.

He yanked me down the ramp, and over to the waiting town car. I tried to wriggle free of his hold, but to no avail. He was scarily powerful.

“Get off me, Enzo,” I hissed. “That was so fucking rude.”

He bundled me into the back of the car, swiftly following, and barked orders to the driver. He glared out of the window as the car moved from its parking spot, but I slapped his chest. Hard.

“What in the actual fuck?” I fired at him. “That was so bloody uncalled for.”

He let out an angry huff, but he didn’t turn around, eyes still focused on the scenery flying past his window.

“I need a drink,” he said, grinding his teeth.

“It’s ten forty-five in the bloody morning,” I shot at him. “And David wants to see you. What the hell is wrong with you?”

He spun around in his seat, and those dark eyes locked onto mine. The expression on his face screamed only one emotion… Hurt.

“Are you really going to go out with that guy?” he questioned.

My brows shot up in surprise. “Why is that any of your business?”

He blinked, and a tsunami of emotions flashed across his face, making me openly gawk at him in shock.

“Then maybe I should give him a heads up, you know? That you ghost men after you’ve fucked them in every damned position known to man?” he fired back.

My hand moved of its own accord, and the loud slap ricocheted around the car, as my hand made contact with his cheek.

“You prick,” I hissed.

His own hand shot out, capturing my wrist in a vice-like hold, and silence rained down on us for what felt like an eternity. We glared at each other, then I saw it again. A flinch. A flicker of what I could only describe as hurt, sparkling in his beautiful, yet sad eyes.

“Yeah, that’s what everyone calls me, right? But you fucked this man whore prick,” he snapped. “Then you ghosted me, as though I didn’t fucking exist. You think that was a great fucking plan, Sorcha?”

“I didn’t mean,” but words failed me. “Oh, fuck you.”

He never missed a beat, and he threw back words that may as well have been a physical slap. “You already did that. Then you left without a single damned word. No explanation, Sorcha. You fucked me, then avoided me as though I were some sort of vicious disease.”

CHAPTER 3

Sorcha

The shame washed over me like a vat of icy water. Guilt crawled over my skin like a million tiny spiders, as it suddenly slammed into me like a truck. It was me that had bolted from the hotel. Me who had left with no explanation. Me who had ghosted him, avoided him at all costs. I was the bad guy in this, and Enzo had come to all the wrong conclusions… Shit.

“Are you ever going to tell me why?” he asked, his eyes softening, making the guilt intensify in my heart.

I stared into those dark eyes, and I took a deep breath, not sure whether to be honest with him or not. I had to drop my gaze, not wanting to see the hurt in his.

“Why didn’t you want to wake up with me?” he asked.

I dared to look back up at this ruggedly handsome writer, and the sadness took my breath away. Then the dam burst, and words simply tumbled out of me.

“I left because I didn’t want to be humiliated the next day. I didn’t want to see the regret and disgust in your eyes when you woke up next to this… Me,” I screamed into his face, and all the air whooshed out of the car, as though we had been sucked into a vacuum.

“What?” he gasped.

I wanted to be anywhere but here, sitting in this car, watching Enzo’s usually bright eyes glaze over with pain.

“Stop the car,” I ordered the driver.

“Sorcha?” Enzo croaked, but my hand was on the handle.

As soon as the car came to a halt, I was out of the small, airless space, and I ran. I ran away from my string of stupid, idiotic actions.

But most of all? I ran from the hurt in Enzo’s eyes. Hurt that I had been the cause of.

Three Weeks Later…

Enzo

I paced.

It was all I could do. Back and forth, chewing on my finger nails one by fucking one.

My two best friends were sitting on the couch in my home, watching me as they slowly digested everything I had just laid bare. With all the gory details.

“So, let me get this straight? She ran from you?” Raya asked.

I paused my pacing, and I turned to look at her. Her bright sapphire eyes were studying me intensely, her wife, Abbi, doing the same.

“Yes, Ray,” I replied.

“Then she ghosted you?”

“Yes,” I groaned. “Fuck, Ray, rub salt in the fucking wound why don’t you? Jesus Christ.”

“I’m just a tad shocked, Enzo,” she replied.

I ran my fingers through my hair, and I kicked the leg of the armchair in frustration. I’d ordered the driver to take me to the publishing house that day, but she hadn’t been there. David told me that he hadn’t heard from her either. I had the driver take me around the streets near the spot that she’d run from me, but nothing.

So, I found the nearest bar, drinking until Harrison was sent to pick me up and deposit me home.

“And she’s gone. Vanished into thin air. Three fucking weeks, and not a god damned whisper,” I muttered. “Just disappeared off the face of the earth.”

Raya let out an annoyed sigh, and sat forward, staring up at me. “You’ve been sitting on this for three bloody weeks? Letting it eat away at you?” she questioned.

I glared at her, and said, “Fucking hell, Ray.”

She was right, however, as Sorcha’s words had done nothing but play on a loop in my head, driving me half crazy. And that slap was still painfully fresh too. Her words had literally pierced my heart, shattering it into pieces all over again.

In these last three hellish weeks, it had become very clear to me. I didn’t just want Sorcha in my bed again. I’d fallen for her in the hardest way. I, Enzo Fuentes, man-whore extraordinaire, had fallen madly in love with Miss Sorcha Barnes. An all consuming love, and I needed her back.

She believed I would regret it, for god’s sake. Be disgusted with her, and it was the furthest from the truth. I was looking forward to waking up next to her, holding her. As soon as I’d had a taste of Sorcha Barnes? She was all I craved for the rest of my life. She was home to me.

Abbi leaned over and kissed Raya lovingly, then she was on her feet, and she walked her sexy little petite self over to where I had stopped pacing. Her small hand touched my tense shoulder, the other removing my finger from my mouth. She gazed up into my eyes with her dark emerald green ones, and smiled.

“You have feelings for her, don’t you?” she asked gently.

I hadn’t slept properly for the last three weeks, and my emotions were shot to shit, so I literally crumbled, breaking down. Tears pricked the corners of my eyes, and I nodded.

“Yes. I do,” I replied, my voice breaking too. “It took a hard slap, and some choice words, for me to realise. Jesus, Abbi, she thought I’d regret it. Be disgusted by her,” and saying those words out loud?... It hurt so damned much.

“Oh dear,” she said quietly.

“I fucking love her,” I whispered.

“What?” Raya gasped. “Really?”

“Yeah, Ray. Sorcha’s the one.”

Raya was on her feet too, and I was hugged from both sides. They held onto me for a few silent moments, then Raya kissed my cheek, and she wiggled her phone at me.

“Her social media is a ghost town. Nothing since she vanished,” she said. “So, we need a drink, and a plan.”

“Yes. We need to find her, bang your heads together, then get you talking to each other,” said Abbi.

“Exactly. As it’s been a very long time since we’ve seen you in this state, Enzo,” Raya said, walking to the drinks cabinet.

“No, Ray. This isn’t like the last time,” I stated.

“Oh?” and she handed me a tumbler with a very generous measure of whiskey.

“This is nothing like it. I’ve never felt this way. Ever,” I replied.

Abbi took the offered gin and tonic, clinked her glass against mine, then grinned up at me. “Well then, we’d better get cracking. Firstly, no more fucking random women,” she ordered.

I had to smirk, as not one other female had graced my bed since Sorcha. I hadn’t even looked at another woman, let alone allowed one to touch me.

“I haven’t been with any women since my little bookworm, Abbi. Sorcha is my endgame. I just need to find her, and prove it to her.”

Four Months Later…

Sorcha

“You did what?” Natasha exclaimed.

“I’m not repeating myself again, Tash, fucks sake.”

“Jesus Christ, lady. I didn’t know you had it in you? Or is it all those dirty bloody books you read?”

I smacked her arm and glared over at my best friend. “We’d been drinking, Tash. Cheeky bloody cow.”

Natasha simply returned my glare, amusement dancing in her blue eyes, but my brown ones dropped back down to the glossy article in the fancy Italian celebrity magazine. Enzo Fuentes was standing next to a tall, beautiful, blue-eyed, blonde at a film premiere. His arm was wrapped around her waist, and his dark eyes were gazing at her, a wide, happy grin on his face.

Natasha followed my eyes, then she looked back at me, and her mouth curled up into a devilish smirk.

“You fucked a man that hot then ran away?” she fired at me. “Before he woke up? Merda.”

My head fell into my hands, as a very embarrassed groan left my lips. “I panicked, okay. I didn’t want him waking up next to me. He would’ve had a heart attack,” I muttered.

She snorted, and reached for a bottle of red wine. Two glasses appeared, and my oldest friend poured two large measures inside. She handed one to me, then took a sip of hers.

“And why would he have done that?” she questioned.

I looked down at the two page article, which Natasha had translated into English for me. And only one word had caused a sharp pain in my heart.

‘Girlfriend’.

I jabbed my finger at the stunning blonde at Enzo’s side. “That’s his type, Tash. And I am the complete opposite,” I fired back at her.

Natasha suddenly smacked my arm, causing my skin to tingle from the sting. “Ow. What the hell, Tash?”

“That’s really why you’re here? You crazy bloody pillock, Sorcha. You’re hiding from the dumbest decision you’ve ever made. Well, apart from that shithead Snow,” she announced.

I threw down my wine, and topped up my glass, then I fixed my eyes on hers. “Why the hell did you have to bring him up?”

“Because he was the other dumbest decision. Now, listen, and listen good lady,” and she gripped my shoulders, forcing me to look at her. “You’re not hiding your head in the sand any longer. You’re going to face the consequences of your actions.”

I glanced down at the handsome Enzo Fuentes, and the way he looked at her? It made my heart lurch. I wanted to smack her, shove her away from him, and claim him for myself.

“It’s too late. He’s got a girlfriend, and he’s happy now,” I said quietly. “I can’t show up like some bad reminder of a stupid mistake.”

Natasha was watching me carefully, then she studied the article once more, rereading the words that had surprisingly hurt me.

“And who’s fault is that?” she retorted. “If this gets under your skin so badly, you need to speak to him, and clear the air.”

She was right. This article had swiftly crawled under the surface, and it created a nasty itch all over my skin. But, I wasn’t his type. The blonde was… right?

“It’s too late,” I repeated, staring down at him longingly.

Natasha moved like lightning, snatching up my phone from the counter. She unlocked it, then started scrolling through my contacts. She smirked as she found it.

“Sexy prick? Original,” she drawled. “You call him right now. You’re clearly upset about this, so do it. Or I’ll do it for you,” she ordered.

I glared at her, secretly bloody terrified, and she simply glared right back, her stubborn streak flaring to life as her finger hovered over the green icon.

“What the hell would I say, Natasha? Hey Enzo, sorry I ran away, and slapped you. Okay, bye?”

“Sorry would be perfect,” she snapped. “You might be bloody happily surprised.”

“He’s moved on. I can’t…” but she smacked me again, halting my sentence.

“No, you need to speak to him.”

“Please don’t, Tash,” I squeaked.

“Swallow your bloody pride,” she simply replied, and she pressed the green button, and handed me the phone as it started to ring.

Nooooo… Fucking cow bag. Panic attack imminent.

CHAPTER 4

Enzo

Istared into the fridge, towel wrapped around my hips, drying my hair with another. I was ravenous after the workout I had unleashed on my body. It was the only way I could destress at the moment, as the sexual frustration was building to very unhealthy levels. I simply lifted weights until my muscles gave out. My best friend had chuckled at me, causing me to smack him on the shoulder with my fist. He kept insisting on finding me ‘some pussy’ to tide me over, and each time I’d told Madden where to fucking go.

It wasn’t the greatest way to get rid of the tension, but I craved Sorcha like fucking oxygen. I needed her touch, her smile, and that adorable little snort she made. I wanted to kiss her again, hold her in my arms, fuck her. And not knowing where she was? It was fucking torture, and I needed to bloody find her, so I beasted myself at the gym everyday. Madden joined me most days, as he was trying to ‘adult’ again, but he whined like a bitch until his competitive, stubborn streak reared its ugly head.

As I contemplated what to eat, my phone started singing on the dining table, so I closed the fridge, and waltzed over, swiping it up. I answered, presuming it was Madden trying to set me up again.

“Blaine, if you’re trying to fucking set me up,” but a very familiar voice interrupted me mid sentence.

“Hi, Enzo.”

I was slammed with a heavenly arrow, sparking my heart back to life, and the phone slipped from my shocked hand. I managed to catch it before it hit the floor, my heartbeat roaring in my ears. I took a deep breath, pinching the bridge of my nose, then I heard her sweet voice again.

“Hello?”

“Fuck, Sorcha?”

“Yes.”

“Where the fuck did you go? Why the hell did you run from me again?”

An army of butterflies was causing a hurricane inside my stomach, heart rate rising to dangerous levels. Sorcha was on the phone… Finally.

“I’m sorry,” she said quietly, and I groaned, relief engulfing me where I stood.

I wanted to hold her desperately, feel her body pressed against mine. I craved her so fucking much.

“Where are you?” I asked, trying to remain calm, and failing miserably.

“How’s your girlfriend?”

Jesus fucking Christ, the article had only gone and fucking worked…

I let out a happy sigh, grinning from ear to ear, then I ruffled my damp hair. “Just tell me where you are, Sorcha? Please?” I asked.

And there it was, that sexy little gasp I’d missed. I’d been obsessing about every sound my little bookworm had ever made in my presence, and from our one night of the most amazing sex I’d ever had. So, her adorable gasp had been burned to my memory, as it was the sound that had fallen from her when I first slid my cock into her tight, sexy pussy, and I wanted to hear it every fucking day for the rest of my life.

“I’m in Italy,” she replied, in a barely audible whisper.

Fuck, fuck, fuck. Are you fucking kidding me Barnes?

I had to get her back here. Preferably with me. In my arms, my bed, hell, my life. So, in one crazy irrational moment, when all logic flew off on holiday, I made a very impulsive decision.

“Don’t you dare go anywhere, Sorcha Barnes. Don’t you dare fucking run. Do you hear me?” I ordered.

“What do you mean?”

“Don’t fucking run, Sorcha. Okay?”

“Well, okay. Why?”

“Because I’m coming to fucking get you,” I replied, then hung up.

I was up the stairs as though I were being chased by a knife wielding psychopath, taking two steps at a time. My phone was being held hostage by my ear and my shoulder as I spoke to my pilot.

“Yes. Can you prep the jet to set off… about, oh shit. Eight pm. Screw it. I’m not waiting around any longer,” I stated.

“Okay, Enzo. Where are we headed?”

“Italy.”

“Fine, I’ll see you in a few,” and he disappeared.

The next call was to my best friend, and I filled him in on the situation. While I waited for him to respond, I grabbed my suitcase, and threw it onto my bed.

“Wait, back the fuck up, Fuentes,” he finally said. “You’re making a booty call to Italy?”

“Yeah I fucking am. The only booty call I need in my whole damned life. I’m bringing her back with me,” I replied happily.

The joy was so overpowering as I started throwing in underwear. Madden’s chuckle floated into my ear, and I had to grin like a fucking love sick idiot.

“You’ve really got it bad,” he drawled.

“Don’t fucking tease me, Madden,” I warned.

“I’m not, jeez man. Call me when you get back. I need to meet the woman who tamed the beast,” he replied.

I rolled my eyes, but smirked. It was true. Sorcha had grabbed a hold, and I was hooked. “I have to get her to trust me first, jackass,” I stated.

“Then act like you do around me, Raya and Abbi. Retire the prick, Enzo. That’s the best way. She needs to meet the real you,” he answered. “See you when you get your woman,” and he hung up.

I had to smirk at my phone, then went to my wardrobe, picking out suits. As I did, I realised that I hadn’t a fucking clue whereabouts in Italy Sorcha was.

“Dammit?” I muttered.

I called the one person who would know, and he answered swiftly. “Barnes publishing house.”

“She’s in fucking Italy,” fell out of me.

“Hello to you too, Enzo. Good to hear from you.”

“Did you know?”

There was a moment of silence, then the sigh floated through the phone, and it told me exactly what I needed to know.

“She told me a week later. She made me promise not to tell you,” he finally admitted. “She’s staying with Natasha and Alessandro.”

The anger exploded, and I balled my hand into a fist. I held the phone away from my ear for a moment, then took a steady breath.

“What the hell, David? You knew I was desperate to talk to her. Why the fuck didn’t you tell me sooner?”

“She’s my sister, and I promised not to,” he answered. “I also saw that article, Enzo. How is Raya and her wife? And how did you find out?”

“She called me about thirty minutes ago,” I replied.

I hated the fact that she wanted to hide from me, but I was thankful to Raya for coming up with a genius way of finally getting her attention.

“So, you’re really serious about her?”

“Yes, wait, what?” I questioned in surprise.

“The long line of women stopped after you and Sorcha slept together,” he said.

My hand froze in midair as I was about to reach for my spare travel bag, brain whirring at his last statement.

“She told you?” I exclaimed.

“Oh god no,” he replied, chuckling. “I just know her way more than she realises.”

As I walked back to my open suitcase, I frowned. “It could have been anyone, David. Why did you deduce that it was me?”

He chuckled again, and I raked a hand over my face as I waited patiently. “Monday after the convention? She tried to wangle her way out of coming in. You were due for a meeting with me that morning. She became the new Houdini, Enzo.”

I groaned, and looked at my reflection in the mirror, but he hadn’t quite finished. “You also looked at her differently. The times that she couldn’t escape? There was a very intimate twinkle in your eyes.”

“Fucking hell,” I muttered. “Do you have the address?” I asked. “Please?”

“You’re going to go and get her?”

“Damn right.”

“Then grab a pen and paper,” he ordered.

I did as asked, scribbling down the address, as her brother read it out to me. Once I had it, David spoke candidly.

“Just know this, Fuentes. If you hurt my little sister? I’ll personally bloody castrate you,” and he hung up.

I had to laugh, as Sorcha Barnes wasn’t escaping this time. No fucking way. I finished packing, then I grabbed my case, suit bags, and started for the stairs.

I’m coming to get you, my sexy little bookworm…

Sorcha

I leaned against the wall next to the patio doors, wine glass in hand, open bottle in the other. Natasha was staring at me, mouth agape, eyes as wide as saucers.

“Enzo Fuentes? the sex God? He’s really coming here? To get you?” she repeated for the umpteenth time.

“For God’s sake, yes Tash,” I grumbled, swigging more wine.

I stared out into their gorgeous garden, and I was extremely envious of my friend, as she had met her handsome Italian at work. Natasha was an English tutor, he was a fellow professor, and they fell in love very quickly. They were now married, and trying for a family, so I presumed that I would have to go home sooner rather than later. My friend had gotten her very own book boyfriend dream.

“Shit, do you think he’ll bring his girlfriend?” I groaned.

Natasha stalked over to me, and she plucked the bottle out of my hand, then started to go to the kitchen.

“Hey bitch, that’s mine. I bloody licked it,” I called after her.

“I’m making you food, cheeky cow, as you can’t have a liquid lunch,” she yelled back. “Get in here, and sit down.”

I rolled my eyes, then pushed from the wall, following her into the very beautiful, rustic kitchen. I sat on the stool at the island, then watched as my friend pulled ingredients from their huge fridge. She threw them together swiftly, then a plate appeared in front of me, along with a small basket of Italian bread, and an olive oil and balsamic dip. As I stuck my fork into a slice of beef tomato, I had to say it.

“How did you get so bloody lucky?”

She snorted, and shook her head with a grin. “Enzo bloody Fuentes is travelling across the ocean to come and get you, Sorcha. That man is sex on legs, all wrapped up in designer suits, and he’s coming here. For you, you lucky cow.”

I stared at her in surprise as she speared an olive with her own fork. “Have you seen your husband, woman? He’s a real life, tall, dark and handsome, dream book boyfriend. And Enzo has a girlfriend, remember?” I fired.

I threw back the last of my wine, and she refilled my glass, but tapped the plate with her fork.

“Eat. Now, if you ask me, I wouldn’t let my boyfriend, or husband, fly over continents to pick up another woman. Sounds bloody strange,” she said. “Think about it, Sorcha.”

I chewed on my bottom lip, doing just that, then I shovelled the delicious salad into my mouth. It would be crazy to let your sexy man fly to another country to pick up another woman.

“That’s even more scary, Tash,” I muttered.

She laughed, and slapped my arm with a very cheeky sparkle in her eyes, and I rolled my eyes, filling my mouth to stop from saying anything idiotic.

“He’s coming here to rescue you,” she purred.

“Shut up,” I grumbled.

“Like your own real life book boyfriend.”

“Stop it,” I hissed.

“A tall, sexy older man, with tons of experience in the sex department.”

“Oh, fuck off.”

“Nope. Not even a little bit. Not happening,” she replied. “You’ve got your own knight coming to rescue you, so don’t get bloody drunk.”

CHAPTER 5

Sorcha

Igave her my middle finger as I continued eating, and she giggled. “Sorry,” I said. “But, I want to drown in a vat of this.”

The sound of the front door announced the return of Natasha’s handsome Italian, and I groaned, starting towards the patio.

“Salve, tesoro,” he said, hugging his wife. “Oh, mio dio. Day drinking?”

I stuck out my tongue, but smiled at him. Tall, black hair cropped short, slightly longer on top. Dark brown eyes, and that classic Italian olive skin. He was very dashing, like an old school Hollywood film star.

“This is a bad sign. What have I missed?” he asked.

I sat down on the lounge chair, putting down the glass and bottle, then bit down on the piece of bread I had in my teeth.

“We’re getting a famous visitor tomorrow, bello,” she said rather loudly.

“And who is that?” he enquired.

“Enzo Fuentes,” she said.

I bit down on more of the bread, silently cursing. I washed it down with wine, and glanced over at the pair.

“For what purpose?” Alessandro asked.

“He’s coming to collect our little Barnes,” she purred.

“No address,” I yelled.

I heard them both laughing, and turned to see the two of them gazing over at me, and I cursed loudly.

“Oh, ha fucking ha,” and they laughed louder.

“David has this address, Sorcha,” Alessandro said.

“Isn’t that fucking peachy,” I snorted.

“And why is that a bad thing?” he questioned.

I braced for impact, as I knew Natasha would quickly fill him in on all the gory details. I filled my glass, then settled back in my lounge chair.

“Sorcha had hot sex with him, then ran away, all because she thought he wouldn’t like her in the cruel light of day, which is ludicrous,” she said.

“Scusi?” he exclaimed.

“She ghosted him, slapped him, then jumped on a boat, drove across the country, to hide out here,” she said. “She thinks she isn’t in his league.”

I rolled my eyes, lifted my glass, and shouted back. “Well, thanks for that detailed rendition, ex bestie.”

“Truth hurts, bitch.”

“Yeah, well, fuck off,” and I emptied my glass again.

A few hours later I was full of homemade pasta that Natasha had forced me to eat. Now, I was slumped in the armchair, another glass in my hand.

“You should go to bed and sleep,” Natasha suggested.

I swirled the contents and sighed. It was just gone ten pm, and the alcohol was going to my head now, so I reluctantly emptied my glass and sat up.

“Even though I want to drink until I pass out, I think you’re right,” I mumbled.

“It’s all going to be okay,” and my best friend patted my knee.

“Book bloody boyfriend,” I muttered.

“Time for bed,” and she eased the glass from my hand.

I nodded, and stood on unsteady legs, then gave them both a smile. “Goodnight,” I said, and started for the hallway.

“Buona notte,” Alessandro called.

Once I reached my bedroom I dropped onto my bed, staring up at the ceiling. My head was fuzzy now, and a new wave of nerves churned in my gut. There was a knock on the door, and I turned to see Alessandro’s hand waving through the crack.

“I’m decent,” I said with a smile.

His head appeared, then he stepped inside, bottle of water in hand. He was such a traditional guy, and a gentleman. Treated all women with respect. He’d even asked Natasha’s father for her hand in marriage.

He smiled warmly as he walked over to the bed where I was slumped, and put the water bottle onto my bedside table, along with two headache pills.

“Acqua, signora,” he said, ruffling my messy hair.

“He’s got a girlfriend,” I said quietly.

Alessandro sat on the edge of my bed, removing my pumps as he spoke. “May I be frank, Sorcha?”

“Sure, why not?”

“As a man, who is very happily married, I would never fly across the sea to scoop up another woman. If he was a happily settled man as I am? He wouldn’t be coming for you.”

“Shit, Tash said that too,” I groaned.

“And you secretly know that it makes perfect sense, piccola signora.”

I ran a hand over my face, sighing. I didn’t want to believe their words, but it made a lot of sense…annoyingly. And that was even more terrifying.

If Enzo was indeed single, then what in the hell did he want with a plain, uninteresting little bookworm like me? Alessandro stood up, leaned down, kissed the top of my head, and winked.

“Buona notte, piccolo Barnes,” he said.

He left me alone, and his parting words had my entire brain malfunctioning. Then again, Enzo looked really happy in those pictures. I had no idea what was in store tomorrow, so I closed my eyes, and I quickly drifted into a wine-fuelled sleep.

I winced as I cracked open my eyes. I yanked the pillow over my face with a groan, as the wine hangover hit me with a vengeance.

“Great idea, Barnes,” I muttered. “Stupid cow.”

The wine had seemed like such a clever idea, but now? I was paying the price. My mouth was drier than the desert, head pounding, as though a tiny little devil was running around my skull with a bloody sledge hammer. I reluctantly sat up, and instantly regretted it. My stomach churned, and dizziness caused my eyes to lose focus for a few seconds.

“Bloody hell,” I groaned.

I turned, and I saw the bottle of water and headache pills. I grinned as I swiped them up, and swallowed the tablets, gulping down the water. As I swung my legs from the bed, it hit me.

“Fuck,” I whispered.

Enzo was due today. He was coming to get me. So I ran a hand over my face, then headed for the shower. I scooped up my phone as I did, and I noticed the new message.

“Holy shit,” I whispered, as I saw the name.

‘Sexy Prick’

A rush of giddiness flew through me, but I reminded myself of the tall, sexy blonde from the article. I opened the message, and read.

“I hope you are staying put, my little bookworm? Enzo xx”

“Cheeky shit,” I said, but a very silly grin erupted on my face as I replied.

“Very funny Fuentes. Sx.”

I dropped the phone onto the bed, then went to shower. I caught my reflection in the mirror, and groaned.

“Dear lord, woman,” I stated.

I showered quickly, trying to wash the hangover away, but it didn’t work. I needed sweet pastries, and a vat of coffee. As I brushed my hair, slapped on some subtle make-up to cover the dark circles beneath my eyes, my mind wandered.

Enzo and that Blonde.

The way he was looking at her caused a dull ache to flicker to life in my heart, and I suddenly had the urge to kick her. I stood up, and pulled on a yellow sundress. I grabbed a white bolero cardigan, and my white espadrilles. I put them onto the bed, then padded down the bright hallway in search of caffeine. As I neared the door to the kitchen I heard two very distinct voices. But, only one made my feet halt, and it set my entire body on tenterhooks.

“She’s going to be rather annoyed when she finds out you got here late last night,” said Natasha.

“Apologies for turning up so late. Once I had the address, it was burning a hole in my pocket, so I brought my flight time forward,” he replied.

“She drank a lot after she saw that article,” she said.

Thanks a fucking lot, Tash…

“Noted,” he answered.

“She saw the blonde.”

“I figured. But I’ve been looking for her since the day she vanished on me.”

My heart rate suddenly spiked at his last statement, but my feet seemed to take on a life of their own, shuffling backwards, widening the space between me and the writer in the kitchen. I couldn’t do it. I couldn’t face him after the stunt I’d pulled on him. I started to back up even further, heading back to the sanctity of my room, but two strong hands landed on my shoulders.

“Oh no, piccolo Barnes.”

“Sandro,” I hissed. “I can’t.”

“Si, signora. You can, and you will. Venire,” he ordered, and I was marched to the door, and forced into the kitchen.

Two sets of eyes found me as Alessandro remained behind me, blocking my escape route. He squeezed my shoulders, and I felt the handsome writer’s eyes staring right into my soul. I kept mine focused on his black shoes perched on the rung of the stool, body suddenly very fucking hot.

“Look who I found, tesoro,” Alessandro announced.

As I lifted my gaze, my eyes locked onto Enzo’s dark brown ones, and he literally took my breath away. Everything shut down, then he let loose his knee trembling, pussy fluttering smile, and I was done for.

He was decked out in his signature dark grey suit, and a crisp white shirt. He seemed bulkier, and his jawline was covered with short stubble. His hair was a little messy, as usual, but his focus was directed on me, and my cheeks burned at the intensity of Enzo’s gaze.

“Hello, my little bookworm,” he finally said.

Jesus, holy mother of fucking shit…

His voice wrapped around my entire being, caressing me as though it were a sensual lover, and I had to take a steadying breath.

“Buon giorno, signore Fuentes,” said Alessandro.

“Good morning,” he replied.

I rolled my eyes, crossed my arms over my chest, and tried to tame the screaming mess that I was underneath.

“So, my little Houdini, you look…” but I cut him off.

“Like a sack of shit?” I fired at him. “You can say it.”

My best friend moved like a gold medal winning sprinter, and she swiftly dragged her husband from the room.

“Don’t you dare run, lady,” she hissed into my ear, before I was left alone with Mr Enzo Fuentes.

He smirked at me, brows arched in amusement, and it pissed me off, so I stayed exactly where I was, not saying a damned thing.

“That wasn’t what I was going to say, Sorcha,” he said.

“Why not? It’s the truth,” I muttered.

As I hadn’t moved, he started to walk towards me, his hands in his trouser pockets. It was slow, confident, and graceful, and I was literally frozen to the spot, unable to move. I tried to stand a little taller as he neared, but my heart was thundering, racing at a million miles an hour.

“I was about to say that you look like a vision in yellow,” he replied, and he stopped directly in front of me. “I missed you,” he whispered.

He was so close that the scent of him wafted into my nose. He smelled like bloody marzipan. So delicious, and I silently cursed.

“What?” I squeaked.

“I said that you are a vision in yellow, and, Sorcha Barnes, I missed you,” he repeated, but my brain seemed to be malfunctioning.

“What?”

He arched a brow and smirked as his eyes roamed my face, as though he were memorising it.

“And that slap was memorable.”

“What?”

“And it seems as though you’ve lost the ability to form sentences since I last saw you.”

His fingers gently grazed my arm, sending a delicious shiver skittering over my skin, and along my spine. I had forgotten how bloody irresistible Enzo was, and what an effect he had on my body. One side of my brain urged me to run away. The other? It told me to climb him like a bloody tree monkey.

“Pardon?” was all I could say.

Enzo chuckled, and he raked a hand through his hair. “Are you packed?”

“Packed? Why?”

He walked around, pausing behind me, blocking off my escape, then his hands gently touched my arms, his breath fanning the back of my neck, and it felt as though I had arrived home. I squeezed my eyes shut, chewing my bottom lip again, trying to stop from turning around, and grabbing a hold of his head, and kissing the fucking life out of him.

“Because, beautiful, we are going to sort out what happened between us. I want to discuss your crazy disappearing act. Those words you said in the car, and that spectacular slap. Just me, you, and no-one to interrupt us,” he whispered.

“What?” I gasped.

“You and me, my beautiful little bookworm. No interruptions.”

And my brain literally imploded as I tried to process what Mr. Enzo Fuentes had just said.

CHAPTER 6

Enzo

As soon as I laid eyes on her, my heart exploded with joy. The love spiked, and my body went into heat for her. She looked fucking stunning decked out in that yellow sundress, bare feet, and her dark hair was tied into two delectable plaits at each side of her beautiful face. I took in a subtle breath, and she smelled of a spring meadow.

I desperately wanted to pin her against the wall, kiss her soft lips, and rail her until she forgot her name. I had dreamt of nothing but her since her bloody vanishing act. Those parting words still played on a loop, so my mission was now to show her how much she meant to me. She was about to find out that I was crazily, madly in love with her.

“What?” she squeaked again, her head whirling around to stare up at me.

And holy shit, just a slight lean forward? And I could have kissed her, but I had to bide my time. So, I stood back, giving her a little space.

“Have you really forgotten how to string sentences together, beautiful?” I teased with a cheeky grin.

Her hands landed on my chest, shoving me backwards, and my little firecracker finally broke free. She stalked towards me, and shoved me again, causing me to stumble back a little. Her eyes were sparkling with that feistiness I fucking adored, then she slapped my chest twice more.

“Of course I can, you cheeky fucking prick,” she hissed. “You clearly haven’t changed.”

I chuckled as she whirled around, and stormed over to the very fancy coffee machine by the large window. She yanked two large white cups from the top of it, then began to make coffee. I sauntered over, watching, taking in her lovely curves. My hand no longer fucking cut it, and I needed the woman I loved so damned desperately.

“Oh, I beg to differ, Sorcha. A lot has changed during the four months that you’ve been hiding,” I replied.

She turned around, and her beautiful eyes glared at me. I had to grit my teeth, hands going into my trouser pockets again, dick stirring at the sight of ‘mi mujer’.

“How’s your girlfriend?” she fired at me.

“I don’t have one,” I threw back.

“Then who’s the blonde?”

“My best friend. Met her in drama class.”

“Looked really fucking cosy.”

“Because she’s my best friend.”

“Doesn’t look like that in the bloody article.”

I took a step closer each time she snapped at me, soaking up her features, and that cute little crease between her brows. She turned away from me, and continued angrily making coffee.

“She has a wife, Sorcha. She just agreed to be my plus one because I was fucking lonely.”

“What?”

“I don’t do interviews right now, so the media make up whatever they fucking want. I missed you so damned much, Sorcha, so they took it in turns to accompany me to public events,” I replied.

My little bookworm stilled her movements, and turned slowly. Those beautiful brown eyes gazed up at me, and my body heated instantly. She frowned, and I had to smile.

“So, the article was a set up?” she questioned.

I nodded. Sorcha wasn’t just a sexy little bookworm. She was a very intelligent woman. I took a step closer, and she backed up a little, her butt hitting the counter.

“I was desperate to find you, Hermosa. It was Raya’s idea. Grab your attention, then hope and pray that you would finally get in touch. David thought it was genius,” I said.

Sorcha’s eyes narrowed at the mention of her brother, and she was clearly angry. She took a couple of steps closer, and I readied myself for attack.

“Are you going to slap me again?” I questioned, and she froze.

All the fire fizzled out of her, and she seemed to shrink where she stood. I immediately felt a little guilty, but her soft voice floated across, and it did things to every damned inch of me.

“I’m sorry I slapped you. I was wrong to do that,” she said quietly.

There wasn’t a chance in hell that I would allow her to take all the blame. I closed the gap, then placed my finger under her chin, lifting her face up to mine. I gave her a soft smile as her eyes came to my own.

“Don’t do that, Hermosa. I’m rather surprised that I haven’t been slapped more regularly,” I admitted.

She snorted, and a small giggle fell out of her, as the light in her eyes came back to life. My heart went crazy, but she turned, and finished making our coffee. She glanced back at me, and I had to try and stop from smirking smugly as her eyes roamed over my body.

“You look less tired and… more… action man?”

An amused laugh got caught in my throat, and I covered it up with a cough, but I loved the fact that she noticed the change in my physique.

“Less late nights, and a lot of time in the gym lifting weights. I needed to destress, if you know what I mean?” I replied, and I winked at her.

Her snort escaped again, and she stifled a laugh, making my heart soar at the sound. I watched as she added a tiny amount of milk, and one cube of sugar. She gave it a stir, then handed it to me.

“You know how I take my coffee?” I asked in surprise.

“Yes. Why?”

My heart went fucking nuts all over again at such a small, simple thing. Jesus, I couldn’t help myself any longer.

I leaned in, and I dropped a light kiss on her cheek, then one right by her enticing lips. I moved away, and sat on the stool, and I watched as Sorcha grazed each spot I had touched with her fingers.

“Why did you do that?”

“Just a thank you for my perfect coffee. Now, you need to pack. We have a long journey ahead of us,” and I winked again, sipping from my mug.

At that moment, her friend Natasha appeared with a very satisfied, smug expression on her face. She leaned onto the island and grinned at us.

“No yelling? No throwing things? Wonders will never cease. And she’s all packed, Enzo,” she said.

“Pardon?” she gasped.

“You’re all packed, lady. Sandals are in the hall by the door,” she replied.

“You’re just going to kick me out?”

“Yep.”

“But, that’s so mean.”

“Nope. No more hiding. You two make a rather lovely couple.”

“That’s fucking harsh.”

“No it isn’t.”

“Yes it bloody is,” she exclaimed.

I recognised the panic in her eyes, so I put down my cup, and I took a few steps towards her, closing the gap. I placed my hands on her shoulders, and I kissed her forehead.

“We need this, Hermosa. You and I have something between us, you know that. I’ll leave you to say goodbye,” then I did it.

I pressed my lips over hers in a very brief, yet fucking divine, kiss, then I stood up tall, backed away, but fixed my eyes on hers.

“I know what I want, and I hope you’ll want the same. I’ll be outside, waiting for you,” and I left her to say her goodbyes.

I placed the third case into the trunk of my rental when the male voice rang out behind me.

“You two slept together?”

I turned, and Natasha’s husband approached, carrying another full duffel bag towards me.

“Yes. We had rather a lot of wine beforehand, but it was an amazing night,” I replied.

“Certo… of course,” he said, his dark brown eyes sparkling.

I put my own case inside too, then took the bag from the Italian, adding that to the collection. He smiled, and patted my shoulder.

“Our little Barnes does not see herself as we do. She believes herself to be plain, uninteresting. Drives my Tasha pazzo,” he said.

I frowned, making him smile. “Pazzo?” I asked.

“Crazy,” he answered.

I chuckled and nodded. “For sure. My little bookworm is both beautiful on the inside and on the outside.”

“Correct answer. I know of your reputation, Mr Fuentes. Do not hurt her, per favore?” he asked.

I nodded with a sigh. My reputation was my own damn fault, but I wouldn’t allow my sexy little firecracker go this time.

“Sorcha is my endgame. I’m in love with her, and I want to take care of her for the rest of my life,” I replied, and it felt so damned good saying that out loud.

He chuckled, and patted my shoulder again with a cheeky grin. “Only a man in love would get on a plane to rescue his lady.”

“Yeah. I’ve been looking for her since the day she vanished. She isn’t running this time,” and he gave me a happy wink.

Sorcha Barnes was the love of my fucking life, and I was determined to prove to her that her heart was truly safe with mine. She was my woman… Mi mujer…

Sorcha

Natasha crushed me in another hug, then she fixed her blue eyes on the novelist. The gorgeous, sexy, and delicious Enzo Fuentes, waiting by the car with Alessandro.

“Don’t bloody hurt her, Fuentes. If you do? I’ll track you down, murder you, and make it look like Santa did it,” she warned.

I snorted and giggled, slapping her arm, and Enzo grinned like a bloody devil. His eyes locked onto mine, and the way he was gazing at me? I felt like his next meal. Memories washed over me as I looked back at him. Me, Enzo, naked bodies, and the most amazing sex I’d ever had. My thighs instinctively squeezed together, but Alessandro walked over, kissing his wife, then my cheek.

I turned to my friend, and I threw my arms around her for one last hug. I touched Alessandro’s shoulder, then turned to look at the writer that I had really bloody missed if I was truly honest.

“You have my word, miss feisty pants,” Enzo replied to my friend.

Her husband stifled a laugh, earning him a slap on the chest. “Come back and visit,” Natasha said, then I turned to walk over to the one man I’d tried to forget.

“Ready Sorcha?”

“No,” I answered, honestly.

“I don’t bite, Hermosa,” he replied. “Not unless you want me to,” he whispered into my ear.

I flushed instantly, and I slapped his arm before slipping into the passenger seat. He closed the door, then swiftly walked to the other side, sliding into the driver’s seat. I dropped my bag onto the floor, then clicked the seatbelt in place. Enzo did the same, then he winked over at me.

“What?”

“Just happy to have my sexy little bookworm back,” he replied.

I stared at him in surprise, then he patted my thigh, and a small squeak fell out of me. I felt my cheeks burn. I was in serious bloody trouble. All because I secretly loved his attention… and his lovely words.

“I’m sexy?”

“And beautiful. I see a sexy, curvaceous woman beside me,” he answered, and he leaned over and kissed my cheek.

I didn’t know what to say. He thought I was sexy? Beautiful? What the fricking hell was going on? The last time I had been in a car with Enzo, I’d thrown hurtful words at him, slapped his face, and bolted from it like a bloody coward. Now he wanted me to talk about it. He also stated that he knew what he wanted.

In what fucking universe had I fallen into?

CHAPTER 7

Sorcha

The car moved away from my friend’s, and out onto the Italian roads. I glanced at his profile, and his square jaw was now covered by a slightly unruly beard. Not a huge bushy thing, but it gave him an extra sexy, rugged vibe. I subtly checked out his long straight nose, delicious, kissable lips, and those ‘come to bed’ eyes. Shit, the sexiest man on the planet in my eyes.

He suddenly chuckled. “You’re staring at me, Hermosa,” he stated.

I practically gave myself whiplash as I whirled my head around. “I’m sorry,” I squeaked, and winced at the sound I’d just made.

“No need to apologise, Sorcha. I enjoy your eyes on me,” he drawled.

I tried to focus on the stunning Italian scenery whizzing past my window, but my mind was wandering into dangerous territory. That amazing night of passion, and just how talented this man was between the sheets. He’d set up that article to force me to get in touch, and now he’d flown all the way to Italy to collect me.

“Why are you here?” I finally asked, desperate to know.

He glanced over at me, and a long drawn out sigh came out of him. He threw me a soft smile, then focused on the road.

“Because, Sorcha, you ran. I need to talk to you. After saying something like that, which was frankly, really hurtful.”

I sat up a little, and my stupid brain failed me all over again. “I didn’t know that was possible?” I fired, then I immediately flinched, clamping my mouth shut, as my words echoed around the car like a bullet.

“Ouch,” he simply replied.

And yes, that was a really shitty thing to imply, and I hated myself immediately for being so fucking cruel.

“I’m sorry, Enzo. That was uncalled for,” I said quietly.

“A little,” he replied.

I heard the hurt in his tone, and I winced, not knowing how to respond, so I turned on the stereo. It was set to CD mode, and a very familiar song came floating out of it. The smile was instantaneous, and my head whipped around to stare up at the scrumptious writer.

“You were listening to this?” I questioned.

“Does it surprise you?” he asked.

“A little,” I admitted. “Why?”

“It has special memories attached to it,” he said.

My hand went to the bottom of one of my plaits, and I twirled it around my fingers, my own memories flooding my mind.

“We danced to it,” fell from me, and I blushed furiously.

“Yes, we did. You told me to stop spinning you around,” and he gave me his signature smile that did dirty things to me.

After that dance? He’d led me to the darkened hallway of the hotel, kissing me. Then we ended up in his room, and the best sex of my life.

Shit, shit, shitty fuck… Melting.

I opened the window, as I was suddenly extremely hot. Enzo chuckled, and I groaned, feeling my cheeks burn harder.

“I remember all of it, Sorcha. Every heavenly detail. Every sweet moan, sigh, and those sexy cries coming from you,” he said.

Fuck, fuck, fuuuuuck…

“I’ve thought of nothing else since that night. How you felt, giggled, and smiled.”

Fucking hell, I’m going to combust from overheating…

“I know you remember too,” he said, glancing at me, swiftly melting where I was sitting.

“A bit?” I lied.

I visibly squirmed as I felt his eyes on me, and I dared to look over. Enzo was not stupid, and he read my very telling expression, making him smirk like a wicked devil.

“You do remember. It’s written all over your face, Hermosa,” he drawled.

And there it was. Enzo had called me out, and there wasn’t a single word inside my head. Empty. My body, however, had other ideas, and my stomach growled loudly.

“Shit, can we call for snacks?” I asked.

“Sure,” and he reached out and patted my knee.

The feeling of his hand on my thigh caused a tsunami of emotions to fly through me, and I subtly squeezed my legs together, as my pussy instantly fluttered, begging for his talents.

“Natasha told me about your favourite bakery. It’s on the way,” he added, and the joy took over.

I spun around in my seat, smacked his bicep, and a huge grin erupted onto my face. He flinched a little at the surprise contact, and he chuckled.

“Hitting me? Do I need to tame you?” he asked with a wink.

I rolled my eyes, but I couldn’t help my smile. “Shut up, Fuentes. They make the best cannoli’s,” I exclaimed.

“Never had the pleasure,” he said.

“Are you fucking shitting me?” I said in surprise.

As we descended into the very picturesque village, he laughed, and it was such a genuine sound. I’d never heard him laugh like that before, and I stared at him in shock.

“No, I’m not fucking shitting you, as you so eloquently phrased it, Sorcha,” he answered.

“You have no idea what you’re missing,” I said, as he pulled the car into a spot at the side of the road.

He was out of the door, and opening mine in a flash, then I flung my legs out. As I went to stand up, my foot slipped off the curb, and I stumbled, expecting to hit the ground with a painful thud.

“Shit,” I yelped, but Enzo’s hand flew under my arm, my head hitting his chest, and he steadied me.

“You enjoy bumping into me,” he teased.

“Very funny,” I snorted. “But, thanks for the save.”

“Always,” he replied with a cheeky wink.

After purchasing a box full of various filled cannoli’s, some fresh Italian bread, olives, and drinks, we climbed back into the car. As Enzo pulled back onto the main road, we sat in a rather comfortable silence for a little while. It was Enzo that broke it, and he glanced over at me. It was only brief, but I felt it, so I turned and looked back at him.

“So, you do remember our night together,” he asked. “Don’t you, Sorcha?”

“Where are we going?”

“You remember, don’t you?”

I really didn’t feel ready to talk, so I evaded his question. “Are you just trying to torment me the entire time?” I huffed.

He groaned, and his hand shot up, raking through his hair. Hair that I had run my own fingers through while his head had been between my legs.

Shitting hell, lady.

“Please tell me what’s going through your beautiful mind, Sorcha. I have to understand why you left. And why you thought I’d regret our night together?” he pressed.

“How far is the drive?” I fired back.

“Jesus, Sorcha. Why won’t you talk to me?”

It fell out of me before I could engage my brain. “Because I feel fucking stupid. Okay? I feel guilty, and I’m not fucking ready to talk,” I yelled.

The silence descended around us, and he didn’t respond, so I turned away from him. And due to the copious amount of wine I’d consumed the previous night, the warmth of the sun, and the gentle motion of the car? My eyes slowly drifted shut.

It was a warm hand that jolted me awake, but Enzo’s voice was cool as he spoke. The lightness and warmth was no longer present.

“It’s just me. We’re here,” he said.

Enzo backed away, allowing me space to climb from the car. I ran my hands over my face, then clambered out. I watched two men in very familiar uniforms collect our luggage, and I tensed as they headed for the shiny, gleaming…

“Shit,” I whispered. “Plane. Fuck.”

My writer said nothing, striding towards the jet, and my stomach lurched. I hated flying with a passion. I’d travelled to Italy via boat, then hired a car, travelling across Europe.

“I’ll get you home,” Enzo stated, then allowed me to go first.

I had to will my leaden legs to climb the steps, panic wrapping around my throat, squeezing tightly. My stomach churned, and I felt suddenly very nauseous as I stepped inside. The jet was stunning. Elegant, and it was a brief distraction to my terror. Enzo came up behind me, but he stepped around, and dropped into the seat next to the window.

“Sit anywhere. We take off in a few moments,” he stated, staring out of the window.

The icy tone surprised me, and the dull ache in my heart took my breath away. His whole demeanour was closed off, and I didn’t like it at all.

“Are you okay?” I asked.

“Fine. Don’t feel obliged to sit with me.”

I felt as though I’d been doused with iced water, and I bit down hard on my lip, trying not to let it bother me. But it did.

It hurt like fucking hell.

“So, you’re just going to ignore me? Then simply drop me off?” I snapped, tears threatening to appear.

“You don’t want to talk,” he replied, without glancing my way. “So, why should I bother?”

And that hit its mark.

Pain crushed me from all sides as I stared down at Enzo, and I had to try and swallow down the tears. I glanced around the empty plane, then took a shallow breath, and dropped into the seat opposite him. He seemed to flinch a little as I tried to hold back both my terror, and hurt. The door slammed shut, and I visibly startled, hands gripping the arm rests as the fear engulfed me. Jesus, I was about to deal with this alone.

The plane lurched forward, and I fumbled with the seatbelt. I squeezed my eyes shut, tears pooling in the corners, about to roll down my cheeks.

“Shit, shit, shit,” I whispered, stomach tying into knots.

As my fingers dug into the fabric of the chair, his voice echoed into my ears. “Sorcha?” but I wasn’t sure if he had really said anything. “Sorcha?” and a faint sound of a click. “Are you afraid of flying?”

Suddenly, the warmth of his body seeped into mine, his hand easing under my own. He squeezed, and his thumb circled lazily over my skin, the feeling piercing through the cloud of fear surrounding me. I cracked open my eyes, and I turned to look up at him. He was gazing at me, his own eyes filled with worry.

“Are you afraid of flying, Hermosa?” he asked again.

“Yes,” I whispered.

“I’m right here,” he said.

“Thank you,” I croaked, truly grateful.

He brushed a loose strand of hair from my face, then covered my shaking hand with his other one, and he gave me a very tender smile.

“There’s no shame in admitting that you’re afraid. No matter what it is,” he said gently.

The feel of his skin on mine was so comforting that I instinctively laced our fingers together. His mere presence kept my fear at bay, and my nerves in check. He sat with me in silence until the plane levelled off, then he made to stand. I tugged at his hand, though, not wanting to be alone.

“Please don’t go,” I asked.

He sighed, but he let go of my hand anyway, walking away down the aisle to the back of the plane. The sadness that crashed into me caused tears to reappear, and I bit down on my lip again. He came sauntering back, and he had a paper bag in his hand. He set it down in front of me, and smiled.

“It may help to take your mind off things,” he said.

He dropped into the seat next to me again, then pulled out a tablet, notepad, and pen. Our eyes met, and something flickered to life deep inside my belly, causing my heart to begin thundering at breakneck speed. He frowned for a moment, then reached into the bag, took out a napkin from inside, then he gently wiped the tears from my eyes. He leaned forward, and he pecked my cheek before turning back to his tablet, opening up his latest book.

“Thank you,” I whispered.

“Always,” he replied. “And I hope I can change your impression of me.”

“The ladies man?”

Something sparked to life in his eyes, then he leaned in, and he brushed his lips over the sensitive skin just below my ear, and a sound, that I could only describe as a squeak, fell from my lips.

“I was Sorcha. Then I got to have you in my bed. I got to fuck you, feel your heavenly pussy squeezing my cock. Those sexy moans and sighs drove me fucking wild, feral for you,” and he kissed the same spot again.

“After that night, all I could think about was you, and I’m going to prove to you just how much I’ve changed since you pulled your little Houdini trick. And hear me, Hermosa. All I fucking want is you, Sorcha,” and he moved back, and began to write.

I was a hot bloody mess, turned on, body begging for his touches. So I grabbed a cannoli, and I rammed it into my mouth, trying to calm my crazy heart rate.

Me? Holy fucking shit, lady.

CHAPTER 8

Enzo

That spark in her eyes was such a turn on, and I wanted to be brutally honest with her. I needed her to talk, but it was like trying to extract blood from a god damned stone. Her words in the car had seriously pissed me off, and I had allowed my annoyance to take over. The look on her face as I’d snapped at her made my heart fucking hurt, but she’d chosen to sit with me anyway.

I knew she’d registered my flinch, but it was more out of relief rather than anger. It had swiftly faded as I realised my Sorcha was afraid of flying. I didn’t hesitate, and I switched seats. I had to comfort her. I needed her to feel safe, so I took her hand in mine, and I stayed until the plane levelled off.

My heart skipped several beats when she asked me to stay, but I needed her to remain calm, so I grabbed the bag of food, then rejoined her. I also enjoyed the look of surprise as I spoke candidly into her ear, and I saw the twinkle of desire just before that cannoli was shoved unceremoniously into her mouth.

I wanted to kiss those soft lips, and I was a tad jealous of that Italian treat, and the cream lining her mouth. I wanted it to be my fucking tongue licking it from her, before kissing every damned ounce of air from her.

Now, she was a little more relaxed, and I sat staring at my tablet, scanning the newest chapters, trying to edit. But, at this moment in time? Nothing. I had to keep rereading paragraphs, missing sentences, and I felt a strong urge to throw it all across the fucking plane. And all because of a sexy, gorgeous woman sitting beside me. That's when the box slid into my peripheral vision, and her voice floated into my ear.

“Please try one?” she said.

I pinched the bridge of my nose, secretly thankful for the interruption. But, I said, “I was in the zone, Hermosa.”

“Sorry,” she muttered.

I immediately felt guilty as she turned away, huddling back into her seat. I reached out, and covered her hand with mine, which had been sitting beside the open box of food. I squeezed, and she brought those stunning eyes up to mine. I instantly smiled with a wink, making her lips curl up into a small one too.

“Apologies, beautiful,” I said. “Thank you.”

She nodded, and returned to the book, which had magically appeared in her other hand. I dropped my pen, and grabbed up one of the dessert things, eyeing it up suspiciously. There was a very familiar snort from my little bookworm, causing me to arch an amused brow.

“It won’t bite, you know. Just because it’s foreign,” she teased.

My head whipped around, and I caught Sorcha side-eyeing me. So, she knew I had a weird fear of foreign food? How did she know so damned much about me? And I knew practically nothing about her?

“Very funny,” I replied, then bit into it.

Now, I generally didn’t enjoy a lot of foreign food. Sorcha was right, and it was a stupid oddity of mine, as most of the time I didn’t even give it a chance. But this? Fuck, it was pretty damned tasty.

“Fuck me on a mountain goat, these are good,” I moaned.

Sorcha snorted again, then fell into a fit of giggles. I turned and grinned, as that sound was music to my ears.

“Fuck me on a what?” she questioned through her heavenly laughter.

“A mountain goat, Hermosa. So?” I asked. “Why is that funny?”

“That’s a new one. I’ve never heard that before,” she replied, smiling.

And holy fucking cow, it was the most beautiful thing I’d seen in eight damned months. I grinned back, then shoved the rest of the delicious treat into my mouth. I licked my fingers, and Sorcha put down the book, after popping a rather fancy bookmark inside.

“Happy that I interrupted you now?” she asked.

I smirked, and said, “Yes, Sorcha. I am.”

Her eyes fell to my mouth, and that got my cock all giddy, and I fidgeted in my seat… Down boy.

“You have a bit of…” she said.

She scooped up a napkin, and leaned forward. I froze, watching her as she brought the napkin to the corner of my mouth and wiped the edge of my lips. I could have closed the gap so easily, but I simply remained still, gazing into her face.

I’d missed her, obsessed over her, dreamt about her ever since she vanished. And here she was, wiping my mouth, and I took a breath in. She always seemed to smell of nature, the seasons, and I couldn’t get enough.

“Gracias, Sorcha,” I whispered.

“Welcome,” she replied, smiling again.

I had to take a few more breaths, trying to ignore the huge boner she’d inadvertently given me from such a simple gesture. She went back to her book, so I glanced back into the box. I grabbed a piece of the bread, then nibbled on it. Safe to say, Italian food was rather tasty. My eyes came back to Sorcha, and I reached over. I gently touched her arm, making her gaze up at me.

“Please will you talk to me now?” I asked, and she visibly shrunk into herself, making me silently curse.

Fucking great, Fuentes. Scare her back inside herself… Dumb ass.

“I just, well, I don’t want to be laughed at, flung aside,” she whispered, then paused.

My heart rate shot through the roof, as this was possibly going to hurt like a fucking bitch. I squeezed her hand, and she looked away from me.

“Flung aside? Laughed at?” I asked gently.

She didn’t say anything for a few moments, so I stroked her cheek gently with my fingers. “Please talk to me, Hermosa?” I said softly.

Sorcha

My heart was racing as he gazed over at me, but it was the warmth in those dark brown eyes that made the butterflies in my stomach go crazy. My own darted to the back of the plane, and the fully stocked bar. I needed that Dutch courage, before voicing my inner thoughts to the one guy I really didn’t want to hurt again. Enzo deserved an explanation. A reason for my rash string of stupid assed decisions, and the slap in the car, the words I’d yelled into his face. But, I didn’t like confrontations. I hated this sort of thing, so I shot to my feet.

“I need a drink first.”

“That bad?”

“I need it for bloody courage, okay,” I huffed.

He let out a very frustrated sigh, and his hand flew through his dark hair. Then he patted my shoulder.

“Stay here. I’ll get them,” he replied, and strode to the bar.

He grabbed glasses, a couple of small wine bottles, then waltzed back. He placed a small tumbler, and a bottle in front of me, then he sat down again. I quickly poured, then took a large swig of it, before sitting back in my seat. I noticed the smirk on his lips as he poured his own.

“Now talk, Sorcha. Because I need to know what’s whirling around in here,” and his finger traced a line down my face.

“You have a reputation,” I started.

“Of my own making, unfortunately,” he replied.

“I guess. But, I let you seduce me.”

“Because I wanted you, Sorcha.”

“And I didn’t want to be another notch on your bedpost.”

I finally plucked up the courage to face him, and his expression was filled with regret. “And that’s why you left before I woke up, isn’t it?” he questioned.

I let out a loud sigh, then took another swig of the wine. “You do realise what type of women you date? Or should I say fuck?”

He didn’t answer right away, and he took a sip of his own drink. He ran a hand over his face, then looked back at me.

“I remember you throwing something at me in David’s office, right?”

“Airheads with hot bodies, and nothing between the ears, except fluff and fillers,” I said.

His brows arched in surprise, and I secretly wished he would stop doing that, as it made him look extra bloody tempting.

“Yes, that was it. Word for word,” he replied.

The intensity of his gaze was causing my body to go bat shit crazy for him, the air around us suddenly crackling with sexual chemistry. It also caused my brain to malfunction too. The dam burst, and my words came tumbling from my mouth.

“I am the furthest from those women, Enzo. I’m short, dark-haired, nondescript, and plain. I don’t have a supermodel body, and people don’t turn to stare at me when I enter the room. I’m not leading lady material in the fucking slightest. I’m the boring support act, there to make the main character bloody shine and, well, my brain works too.”

I took a swig of the wine, then sighed loudly. “I didn’t want to see the look of regret in your eyes, hear it in your voice that morning. I didn’t want to see it when you saw what you’d fucked all night. My heart wouldn’t have recovered. I wouldn’t have been able to handle seeing the disgust at having sex with someone like me.” and I clamped my mouth shut, knowing I’d finally been brutally honest.

Enzo didn’t move, or say anything, for what felt like an eternity. He finally threw back the last of his wine, eyes suddenly unreadable.

“You thought I’d regret it?” he asked, quietly. “That’s what you’re telling me?”

“Yes,” I whispered.

“Bueno,” he said.

He shot to his feet and walked away from me, and the guilt and shame slammed me, as though I’d been hit by a fucking train. I watched as he leaned onto the surface of the bar, head hung down, and the pain flooded my body, threatening to drown me where I sat. I wanted to cry, as I had done that with my words.

He hated me, and that hurt far more than I thought it would.

Enzo

I had to try and get a hold of my breathing, as every word Sorcha had thrown at me felt like arrows piercing my heart, and it hurt so damned much. I took one last steadying breath, and grabbed two more bottles. I stood upright, rolled my shoulders, and turned. I was about to set my little bookworm straight. She had read the entire fucking situation wrong, so it was time to lay it all on the damned line. I walked back, and she was on the verge of tears.

Shit.

I silently poured us each another drink, then I took a gulp of mine, and turned to face her.

“So,” I started. “Let me get this straight. You left because you think I’m shallow? You thought I’d wake up and hate seeing you in the bed next to me? And that’s why you ran?”

She didn’t speak. Sorcha simply nodded, then grabbed her glass, taking a long swig too.

“You disappeared for four months, ghosted me, Jesus Christ, Sorcha,” I muttered.

I raked a hand down my face, frustration and annoyance tying my stomach into knots. She leaned back in her chair, squeezing her eyes closed, lips trembling, then the first tear fell.

No, no, no. This wouldn’t do.

I leaned closer, my mouth by her ear, causing her to let out a tiny gasp. No more messing around. Time to be brutal.

CHAPTER 9

Enzo

“Listen to me carefully, Sorcha fucking Barnes,” I whispered. “Once upon a time, prick Enzo did that to all women that he fucked. But, one night he finally got to spend time with the most amazing little firecracker. We danced half the night away, laughing, drinking, and enjoying each other’s company.”

She sucked in a sharp breath, her chest beginning to rise and fall rapidly, but I continued the truth train.

“He then spent the entire night with his cock buried balls deep in her divine pussy, making her come over and over. And do you know why, Sorcha?”

“No,” she said in a barely audible whisper.

“I couldn’t get enough of you.”

Her hand flew to her mouth, and I saw her eyes dilate. Yes, I was going to truly set my sexy little bookworm straight.

“That was the best sex of my fucking life, Hermosa. And I was really looking forward to waking up with you in my arms,” and I had to do it.

I gripped her chin, forcing her to look up at me. Then I slammed my lips onto hers, devouring her, like a fucking man possessed. My hand came around her throat, and I squeezed a little. She moaned, and her lips parted, so I slipped my tongue inside, claiming her mouth greedily. My cock strained against the fabric of my pants as she let out a sexy, breathy moan. I finally let her up for air, but I kept a hold of her chin.

“The next time we fuck? And it will happen again. You won’t be able to run, as I’ll fucking tie you to my god damned bed.”

“What?”

“Hear me when I say this, Sorcha. I haven’t touched another woman since you,” and her eyes widened in shock. “Yes, Hermosa. Since my cock was inside you? That’s all I’ve craved. Like a fucking drug. Want to know why?”

“Wh-why?” she whispered.

I dropped a soft kiss on her lips, and smiled. “Because, Sorcha, all I fucking want in this entire damned world is you,” and a delectable little yelp fell out of her in surprise. “Not for fun either. For fucking ever.”

Kissing her felt like home. My lips on hers was the best damned feeling in the entire fucking universe. I shouldn’t have given in to my urge, but her words had hurt like hell, and I needed to show her.

With actions.

I had a mountain to climb to prove to this beautiful little lady that I was worthy of her, and her heart. In her head, she believed me to be a womanising man whore, watching me sleep my way through all the fake airheads over the years. And I had been for a very long time. But, once I’d been with Sorcha? It all skidded to a halt. After tasting her, feeling her in my arms, having my cock inside her all fucking night long? She was all I craved.

She stared at me for what felt like an eternity, breaths shallow, looking like a deer caught in the headlights of an enormous truck. That look in her eyes also caused my heart to go fucking nuts. I smiled, and I brushed a finger gently over her cheek.

“You said forever?”

“Yes, Sorcha. After the slap, and your words? Then you vanished for four damned months? I’ve thought about nothing but you, and coming to terms with the fact that you are my forever. I was fucking worried about you.”

She suddenly threw down the last of her wine, shot to her feet, then squeezed her sexy ass right past my eyeline.

“Where are you going?”

“Need more alcohol,” she muttered.

The sway of her hips had my cock straining painfully inside my trousers. I reached down and adjusted my junk, watching as she pulled out more bottles. I was uncomfortable, as I hadn’t had sex since Sorcha. My right hand had been my best friend since my little bookworm, but I smiled as she waltzed her gorgeous self back to me.

She literally squeezed her sexy ass past me again, then dropped down into the seat she’d vacated. She unscrewed both bottles after handing me another, then I smirked as she tried to pour them both into the small glass.

“They won’t fit,” I pointed out. “Already tried and tested.”

Sorcha let out a cute little groan, and took two huge gulps, then tipped the remnants into the glass.

“I promise I’m not an alcoholic,” she muttered. “It’s just, well, that’s a pretty huge bomb to drop on me.”

I sat up a little, and I turned to face her. “You were very honest, so I wanted to do the same, Sorcha.”

“You could have any woman you want, Enzo. But, shit. Me?”

“Yes, Sorcha. You. Why is that so hard to comprehend?”

I was fighting every fucking urge not to yank her onto my lap, and join the mile high club, but I reached out and took her hand. She opened her mouth to speak, then the plane suddenly banked, and she tensed.

“Shit,” she croaked.

I reached over, and clicked her seatbelt into place, then did the same to my own. “Hold onto that glass, Hermosa.”

I took the other hand, and I laced our fingers together again. “Deep breaths. It won’t take long,” I assured her.

“I fucking hate planes,” she hissed through gritted teeth.

“Noted,” I replied.

She closed her eyes, almost crushing my hand with hers, but I simply ran my thumb gently over the back, and she seemed to relax a little.

“Where are we?” she asked.

“Back in the UK. Then we drive to my cottage,” I answered.

She suddenly glared at me, panic and annoyance flying across her face. “What? But..” and I pressed a finger to her lips.

“Please, Sorcha, just try to trust me? That’s all I ask?”

She didn’t answer straight away, then her eyes dropped. “Fine,” she huffed.

“I mean it, Sorcha. You can trust me,” and I gave her my winning smile.

The plane made a smooth landing, and only then did my bookworm finally relax. Simply holding her hand made my heart stutter, and I fucking loved it. I closed my eyes for a moment, recognising the feeling. This, however, was the first time I’d ever felt so strongly. It was all consuming. And honestly? It scared the fucking shit out of me.

“Next time? Can we hire a car? Or go by fucking boat?” Sorcha grumbled, and my head whipped around to stare at her in surprise.

Next time? Fucking hell.

My heart soared with pure unadulterated joy. She wanted to do this again? Jesus H Christ, she had no idea how happy she’d just made me.

“Without the disappearing act? Then sure,” I replied, and I winked at her with a huge grin on my face.

“Very funny,” she scoffed. “No more flying, unless I’m unconscious.”

I chuckled, and took her hand as I finished my wine. “You’d allow me to knock you out?” I teased.

She rolled her eyes, but a sexy little smile graced her lips. “Not literally, Fuentes. Jesus, just give me a shit ton of wine so I pass out. But, only if absolutely bloody necessary. Don’t get any ideas,” she stated.

“Sure thing,” and I tugged her from the plane.

As we walked across the tarmac, my mind started filling with the most delicious, filthy images of me, pinning my Sorcha against the wall of my cottage, her legs around my waist, and my cock pistoning in and out of her…

“Enzo?” and she brought me crashing back into reality.

“Yes, Hermosa?”

“Don’t seduce me, please? I need time to think about everything you just unloaded on me.”

And… dirty bubble popped.

“I still don’t understand why you want me of all people?”

Jesus Christ, lady.

I stopped before we entered the building, and I took a hold of her shoulders. “Stop with the why me shit, Sorcha, and listen to me. You are beautiful, sexy, and all I fucking want. You can trust me, so quit with the damned self loathing.”

She stared up at me for a few seconds, then her arms were around me, and it felt fucking amazing.

“Thank you,” she whispered.

I pulled her closer, and I had to try not to throw her over my shoulder and kidnap her. “Now, don’t panic. But, I can’t drive as we’ve had wine, so we have to stay in a hotel tonight,” and she immediately tensed.

“What?”

Sorcha

My heart went absolutely nuts, stomach churning, and Enzo squashed me closer as he mentioned the hotel. The last time we’d spent time in one? I had ended up under, on top, and his head between my legs. Enzo had given me the best orgasms of my bloody life that night.

“Sorcha, please don’t panic,” and he released me, kissing my forehead.

“I’m not,” I replied.

“You are. It’s as clear as day on your face, Sorcha.”

“Great, so you can read me just like everyone else can,” I grumbled.

“Yes. You are looking anywhere but me. And you’re scanning for escape routes,” he drawled.

I rolled my eyes, and smacked his chest, and he chuckled. His finger tilted my face upwards, making me look at him.

“I ordered two rooms, Sorcha.”

“You did?”

“Yes. And I know you do remember our night together.”

My mind was suddenly flooded with images of every moment, and I blushed for what felt like the millionth time.

“Yes, fine, I do, happy now?” I fired at him. “I remember every single amazing fucking second of it,” and I squeaked in shock at my outburst. “Shit.”

I clamped down on my bottom lip, and chewed on it as though my life depended on it. Enzo simply leaned in, his mouth by my ear. His lips brushed the skin of my neck, and the divine shiver flew over my skin, causing another little squeak to come out of me. Enzo’s eyes found mine, and his mouth curled up into a very sinful smirk.

“You okay, Hermosa?”

“Fine,” I muttered. “Why wouldn’t I be?”

I cringed, dying of embarrassment at the sound that had fallen from my lips. I also glared at the author, as he tried to hide the chuckle. He knew exactly what he was doing to me, and a part of me hated that. I didn’t want him to know about the huge crush I’d had on him, ever since he swanned into my brother’s office.

But, open fucking book, bloody hell.

He closed the gap, pulling me toward him, then he leaned down, his breath ghosting my skin, and my lady parts went bloody nuts.

“I mean it, Sorcha. You can trust me. Even though I’m desperate to have you naked, writhing under me again, my cock buried deep inside you. Even though I’m dying to kiss you, hold you? I want you to choose.”

“What?” I whispered.

“I want you to decide when we get naked again. You to choose when I can have my head between your sexy legs, eating your pussy until you come all over my tongue. You get the power, and I’ll wait for you, because you’re my endgame.”

And my entire body erupted into flame, and my brain shut down…

CHAPTER 10

Sorcha

He took my hand in his, then walked us to a large town car as our luggage was swiftly deposited into the boot. He opened the passenger door, and gestured for me to get in. I took a deep breath, then slipped inside, and he followed.

As I fastened my seatbelt, his words whirled around in my head like a tornado. Enzo had said ‘forever’, and ‘endgame’. He’d told me that he would wait until I’m ready to be intimate again.

Holy fucking shit, lady.

This Enzo Fuentes was not the author I remembered. The new, hotter version was so much more tempting. Meaning that I was in deep, hot and sexy writer trouble.

“I didn’t know that you hated to fly?” he asked, pulling me back into the car, and out of my head.

“There was never a need to tell you,” I replied.

My hand was still being held firmly in his, his thumb idly drawing circles over the back, and it was so very sensual, yet comforting.

“True. But, I will remember that, and next time? We won’t fly,” he said.

I glanced over at him, and he gave me a cheeky wink, and his trademark smile. The car pulled away from the airfield, and my nerves started to fire on all cylinders. We were going to a hotel… Together.

The last time we’d graced the inside of one? I’d ended up naked in his room, wrapped in Enzo’s arms, being exquisitely pleasured. Then I’d made a sensationally idiotic decision, inadvertently hurting him in the process.

Eventually, we pulled up outside a very upmarket, swanky, and extremely expensive looking building. It was a huge stone structure, with Ivy snaking around one of the walls. Baskets, and tubs of colourful flowers decorated the impressive entrance. Two large stone pillars stood majestically above the front doors, and a doorman, and doorwoman, were waiting to help their guests, all decked out in a lovely navy blue uniform, and a crisp white shirt.

This place was so far above my pay grade, and I silently cursed, as I would stand out like the impostor that I was. Enzo seemed to sense my tension, so he leaned in and pecked my cheek. The car door was opened, and he exited first. His hand appeared, and I had to smile as I took it. This time, I also stayed upright, instead of trying to fall flat on my arse.

“Hermosa,” Enzo said, then kissed my forehead.

“Thanks,” I replied.

The door staff retrieved our bags in a flash, and had them stacked on a trolley, wheeling them inside the building. Enzo led me inside the most elegant lobby I’d ever seen. I felt like a princess, or a film star, as Enzo walked us toward the reception desk. But, as we neared, I clocked the tall, buxom blonde behind it.

Beautiful, perfect make-up, bright blue eyes, and my steps faltered. I tensed, wanting to run in the opposite direction, because her eyes were already trained on Enzo, the obvious look of lust, attraction, and determination in her expression.

“Sorcha?” Enzo questioned.

“Receptionist. She’s perfect for you.”

An exasperated sigh came out of him, and his arm snaked around my waist, tugging me closer.

“No, Sorcha. You are my only type from now on,” he replied. “You hear me?”

I didn’t know how to respond, but my eyes went from the marble floor to the blonde, hungrily eyeing him up, and my stomach started fluttering with nerves. Enzo halted our steps, and turned to face me.

“Sorcha? Tell me you hear what I’m saying to you?” he asked, again.

I tried to glance over at the blonde, but he stopped me, forcing me to look up into his eyes. “Tell me you understand?”

I rolled my eyes, but nodded. “Yes,” I said.

“Great,” and he marched us toward said blonde, my heart hammering like a bloody train.

She stood to attention as we approached, fixing her hair, eyes on my writer. The ‘I want you’ look that I’d seen hundreds of times before sparkled to life as we came to a stop. This time, though? It seriously pissed me off at how she was ogling him, and blatantly ignoring me.

“Good afternoon, sir,” she purred, licking her lips slowly.

Cheeky fucking bitch.

“I have two rooms reserved for the evening,” Enzo said.

A coy smile graced her pouty lips, and she fluttered her fake lashes up at him. My hand balled into a fist, and I gritted my teeth as I watched the cheeky cow bag.

“Well, sir. Let me check that for you,” and she reached out, and literally touched his forearm.

Get your fucking hands off, bitch.

“Your name?” she asked silkily.

“Fuentes,” he answered calmly, coolly, and he squeezed me, as he must have sensed the tension in my body growing.

The flirty blonde giggled, and she began searching on the screen, her manicured fingers tapping expertly. She kept subtly glancing up at him, but he wasn’t paying her any attention. “You must be used to a lot of female attention, being so handsome, sir?” she dared to say.

“Sure,” he said.

“I’m sure I recognise you. Are you an actor? Are you famous?” she asked.

She reached out again, and she actually ran her hand up his arm, then back down to his wrist, and I stared at her in angry surprise.

“You obviously work out. We have a fully equipped gym in the hotel,” she continued.

That was the final nail in this flirty little bitch’s coffin. The rage and jealousy exploded, as I witnessed this fucking blonde openly flirt with Enzo, right in front of my bloody face. My hand shot out, and I grabbed her wrist tightly, and she winced, finally noticing me for the first time.

“You done?” I snapped.

“Excuse me?” she gasped. “You’re hurting me.”

“I said, are you done flirting with my fucking man?” I hissed.

“I’m sorry,” and her face turned beet red. “I thought. I didn’t think,” but she stopped, her eyes darting between me and Enzo.

“What? You didn’t think he would date someone like me? You thought I was what?” I questioned. “His lowly assistant? Just because I don’t look like a puffed up, fucking plastic doll?” I fired at her.

The girl literally squeaked, and I noticed the glassy look in her eyes. As I glared into them, she shrunk into herself, and I heard a small cough fall from Enzo. I released her wrist, then she dropped her gaze to the screen.

“Rooms,” I ordered. “Under Fuentes.”

Enzo simply squeezed me, then leaned in and kissed my cheek. I dared to look up at the sexy writer, and the expression on his face screamed pride. He winked, then turned his attention back to the young woman.

“Oh no,” she suddenly stammered, and a frown appeared between her perfectly shaped brows.

“What?” Enzo asked.

“It’s a family room. One double, two small singles, and ensuite,” she whispered.

“I requested two rooms, young lady,” he stated, coldly.

She finally lifted her eyes, but she looked at me, and not Enzo. “We are hosting a very large wedding, and their guests have pretty much taken over,” she answered with wince, as though bracing for the next verbal onslaught.

He turned to look at me, and his hand cupped my face gently. There was nothing but tenderness in his gaze. But, I saw the flash of worry too. One word rattled around my brain… Trust.

If I said no? He would think that I didn’t trust him, and I really wanted to.

“Your call, Hermosa.”

I smiled back at him, and I took his hand, which was gently caressing my cheek. I squeezed, holding onto it. The way he gazed down at me? It caused an army of butterflies to swirl around my stomach.

“Then we’d better take it. It’s all about trust, right?” and Enzo visibly relaxed where he stood, relief flashing across his face.

A keycard appeared on the desk, then the blonde muttered “enjoy your stay.” Then she bolted for a door which had the words private written in bold letters on it, as a porter arrived to take us to our room.

“I think you hurt her feelings,” Enzo whispered into my ear, leading me away from the check in desk.

I simply huddled a little closer to him, smiling to myself. For the first time in my life? I’d finally stuck up for myself.

Enzo

My entire heart and soul soared into the stratosphere, standing there watching my little bookworm call out the irritating, flirty blonde. The two things that had caused a joy I’d never felt before? She called me hers, and she chose to take the one room.

Seventh heaven.

Sorcha, however, stayed silent as we were ushered up to the room. The hotel was indeed bustling with guests, and most were dressed up in fancy wedding attire, so I held onto her hand tightly until we were suddenly alone once more… in another hotel room.

Sorcha walked her cute little ass over to the small single bed by the wall, then dropped her bag onto it, sitting down. I watched as that adorable little crease appeared between those dark brown eyes, and I rolled my own.

“I’ll take this one,” she muttered, shifting around on it.

“Oh no you don’t,” and I marched over, hoisted her onto her feet, then threw her over my shoulder.

“Enzo, what the fuck?”

“You are having the double bed, Hermosa,” I announced.

I dropped her down onto the huge bed, then grinned at the flustered look on her face. “You won’t fit on those,” she exclaimed.

“I don’t care,” I answered.

It was true. I was six two, and I was perfectly aware that the two singles weren’t long enough. My feet would stick out of the end, but I didn’t care. Sorcha would get only the best from now on.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Fuentes,” she fired at me. “I’d fit perfectly on those.”

I shoved the two beds together, then I yanked both of the mattresses off the floor, laid out on them, and winked.

“Problem solved.”

She snorted into that sexy little giggle, and I smirked smugly, knowing I had her back in my life. One thing I needed to address though? Her little show of ownership downstairs.

“Gonna tell me what that was in the lobby?”

“What?”

“That response to ‘Barbie’ at the check desk?”

I watched her intently, desperate to know. I had adored the jealous tone of her voice as she told that girl I was hers. Calling her a ‘puffed up fucking plastic doll’ had the laugh dying to erupt out of me. She bit down on her bottom lip for a moment, then she sat upright, and crossed her arms over her sexy chest.

“Well?” I pressed.

“She was openly bloody flirting with you,” she finally said.

“I know. But, I could’ve handled her,” I replied, sitting up.

She rolled her eyes, and threw a pillow at me. “It was so fucking rude,” she snapped.

“Were you jealous?” fell from me, without engaging my brain.

She didn’t say anything, rummaging through her bag for something, and I silently cursed. But, she looked over at me as I ran a hand over my chin.

“You had your arm around my waist, Enzo,” she said quietly. “She’s a carbon copy of all the women you always fucked, and, well, she disregarded me as though I were no threat in the bloody slightest, as though I didn’t matter. A second rate, plain, unpretty ant that she could squash with ease under her designer heels.”

My heart exploded, and I was on my feet in a flash, sitting beside her, dropping the pillow back on the bed.

“Firstly, she was rude, and the manager will be informed. Secondly, you, my little bookworm, were fucking amazing. But, admit it, you were jealous,” I teased.

Sorcha’s eyes narrowed, but her mouth curled up into a very sexy smirk. Her hand shot out, and she slapped my arm, snorting into a giggle.

And holy fucking shit. I desperately wanted her… in my arms.

“Don’t get all fucking big headed, Fuentes,” she fired, her eyes sparkling with that feistiness I adored. “But, yes. I was jealous.”

Fuck, fuck, fuck… and I’d given her the fricking power to choose… Dumb ass.

“I will try not to, Hermosa. But, hearing you call me yours? Turned me on,” I replied.

Sorcha snorted once again, and giggled, gaze dropping to her hands, which were resting on the bed. I had to force myself to move, to avoid temptation, so I walked to my case, and the suit bags hanging on the hooks behind the door.

“I can totally sleep in the single bed, Enzo,” she said.

“No, Sorcha. You have that bed. I will be fine,” I answered.

“But, you won’t…” she started.

I groaned, turning to stare into her eyes, and she stopped. “No arguments, Hermosa. You get the double bed, and I’ll be fine down there. Now, I’m hungry, so I'm going to change. I suggest you freshen up a little, even though you look adorable. I need to feed you too, right?”

She let loose a frustrated sigh, then rolled her eyes again, making me chuckle. The pillow was thrown at me again, and it hit me on the arm.

“Stubborn ass,” she muttered.

“Right back at you, sexy lady,” and I grabbed a suit bag, then waltzed into the bathroom.

CHAPTER 11

Sorcha

Iwatched as he disappeared into the bathroom, toiletries bag in hand. I simply stared at the closed door, listening to the sound of running water.

“Shit,” and I whirled around, looking for my own case.

He was about to take me downstairs, into a fancy bloody restaurant, in a fancy hotel. I needed to change. I yanked the top open, and I found my favourite blue dress. It was knee length, capped sleeves, and a heart-shaped neckline. Sensible, yet reasonable enough for this bloody place.

I quickly changed, then grabbed black heels, and a black bolero cardigan. Yeah. I was a sucker for a bolero. Sue me.

I ran a brush through my hair, then re-did the plaits, and I touched up my make-up. As I did so, I started to think about my writer, and how he’d acted since coming to get me. Enzo was being such a gentleman. Nothing like the cocky, arrogant man he had been before I ran off.

He looked at me as though I were his princess, not a piece of meat? He’d also completely ignored all the beautiful women as we’d entered this hotel. The way he had thrown me over his shoulder, as though I weighed nothing, and I had to admit that I’d bloody enjoyed that. Shit, he’d called me his endgame.

Holy fucking shitty shit balls, lady.

The bathroom door opening caught my attention, and what I saw in the mirror made my body malfunction. Enzo was wrapped up in a dark blue suit, crisp black shirt, and the top two buttons sat undone, giving me a teasing glimpse of his chest. The cut of the suit highlighted every sexy line of his frame.

“Holy fuck,” I croaked, and he turned with an arched brow.

“What is it?”

“You look hot,” fell out of me, and I blushed instantly. “Fuck’s sake,” I groaned, and I dived to my feet, dropping the make-up brush in my hand with a loud clunk.

Enzo chuckled, but he didn’t look at me. He simply spoke with the most genuine words, causing an army of butterflies to go wild inside my belly.

“Thank you, Hermosa. And you look stunning as always,” and I turned to look at his muscular back.

He didn’t turn around, but he tilted his head, and I couldn’t help myself. “Why do you look like a tasty bloody snack?”

“What?” and he whirled around.

Jesus christ, woman. What the fuck is wrong with you?

“I do, do I?” he asked.

“What?” I squeaked, and my cheeks burned for the… oh, fuck it, I’d lost count.

He swiped up his phone, keycard, then walked over to me. His hands came to my arms, and he squeezed a little.

“Hungry?” he asked.

My stomach announced it for me, and he smirked. “Yes, fine. I’m bloody starving,” I admitted. “And I really need a fucking drink.”

He smirked as he took my hand, and helped me balance as I slipped on my heels. “You’re sure you’re not an alcoholic?” he teased.

I smacked his chest, then another little squeak fell out of me, as I hit a wall of pure muscle. He caught my hand, and dropped a soft kiss on the back, then smiled warmly.

“Violence again, Sorcha? Seriously, do I have to tame you?”

I stood up tall, trying to stay calm. “You’d never be able to tame me, Fuentes.”

“Really?”

“Really,” I fired back.

He moved closer, and helped me into my cardigan, then those dark eyes locked on my own. “I’m loving this sexy attitude, Sorcha,” he growled.

I couldn’t breathe, but he smelled so temptingly delicious. I looked up at him, soaking up the gorgeous man in front of me, and my brain seemed to fuck off on holiday. I raised up on my tiptoes, and I pressed my lips onto his own parted ones.

He froze for a moment, then his arm moved around my waist, easing me closer, his mouth slowly caressing, teasing, and I moaned into his lips, hands squeezing his shoulders as I relaxed into it. He pulled away first, eyes fixed on mine, but he didn’t tease, or act all cocky. He smiled genuinely, and moved away.

“However much I enjoyed that? I need to get food inside you,” he said, then swiped up the key, and opened the door for me.

Enzo

I may have appeared calm on the outside, but holy fucking hell. My head and heart were complete mush.

Sorcha had just fucking kissed me.

As I looked down into her dark eyes, I saw panic, and confusion. My sexy little bookworm had acted on instinct, so I backed away, even though I wanted to bloody carry her to the bed, and show her how much I’d missed her. It had been the most divine kiss in the entire world.

Screw that. The fucking universe.

I didn’t hesitate once we entered the hallway, taking her hand in mine. She didn’t pull away, but she remained silent.

“I hope you’re hungry, Sorcha.”

“Bloody starving,” she replied.

I ignored the elevators, and headed for the stairs. I turned and winked at my lady, and she gave me a small smile.

“You okay?” I asked. “You’re really quiet.”

“I’m sorry,” she answered, causing my feet to halt on the first floor landing.

“For what exactly?”

She sighed, and gazed up at me, but she chewed on her bottom lip. I smiled, touching her cheek gently.

“Why are you sorry, Hermosa?”

“I kissed you, Enzo,” she replied, and I had to chuckle. “Why are you laughing?” she questioned.

I stood directly in front of her, hands touching her shoulders. “Because you are seriously overthinking it, Sorcha. That kiss was delicious, but it doesn’t mean that I’m going to jump you after dinner. I meant what I said. The choice is in your hands. You can trust me.”

I dropped a light kiss on her forehead, and she finally relaxed. I pulled her in for a hug, and she wrapped her arms around my waist, making me grin like a crazy, love sick old fool.

“It was good,” she muttered into my chest.

I released her a little, staring down at my lady in happy surprise. She rolled her eyes, and tutted at me.

“What?” she asked.

“Absolutely nothing, Hermosa. Let’s go get dinner,” and I took her hand again, and we walked down the last flight of stairs, and toward the dining room.

The restaurant was rather busy, and the Maitre’D approached with a warm smile. Eyes were now watching us, so I pulled her closer.

“Table for two, Mr Fuentes?” she asked.

“Please, lovely lady.”

“I love your books, Mr Fuentes,” she gushed as she grabbed a couple of menus, then checked the floor plan.

“Thanks. If you have one? I can sign it for you,” I offered.

“Oh wow. I have one in my bag. That’d be amazing, Mr Fuentes. Follow me,” and we were led to a very lovely table, looking out over the very picturesque countryside.

As we were seated, I noticed mobile phones appearing, flashes going off, and Sorcha frowned.

“People are staring,” she complained.

“I know, Hermosa. It’s part of my life,” I replied.

I took her hand in mine, and she sighed. But, she simply turned around, and she waved at the diners, a heavenly damned smile on her face.

“Hi. Hello. Seen enough?” she announced loudly.

I stared at my little bookworm in shock, as phones, and gazes darted away from our table, then my brain imploded when she turned back to me, grinning like a bloody devil. I didn’t think I could love this woman any more, but she had just yanked the rug from under my feet, flooring me in the process.

“Can we have Shiraz to drink?” she asked.

“You can have the damned moon if you want. What was that?” I questioned.

“What was what? And the moon?”

“Are you kidding me?” I fired at her.

“I hate nosy people,” she replied, and shrugged her shoulders. “So, I gave them something to gawk at. The moon?”

I sat back, and I chuckled, watching her as she picked up the menu, and started to read through it.

“You, my sexy little bookworm, are fucking amazing, and yes. If I could? I’d give you the damned moon, and all the stars in the sky,” I said, picking up my own.

She let out a little groan, hiding her face behind the menu, blushing instantly. This divine woman could wave at an entire room of strangers, but her cheeks turned that delicious shade of pink when I complimented her.

And she was all mine. No-one would take her away from me.

Ever.

Sorcha ate a very tasty looking salmon fillet. I had a fillet steak, and I found out that she didn’t eat red meat. Her favourite colour was blue, she hated going to parties, and preferred to curl up on her sofa, and read a good book with a cup of tea or a glass of red wine.

“Are you taking notes?” she questioned, after I had asked about her favourite genre of book.

There was a little smirk on her lips as she sipped her wine, and I returned it as I gazed over at her. I leaned forward on my forearms, and I locked eyes with her dark brown ones.

“What if I am? I don’t know very much about you, yet you know how I take my coffee, and I have a strange thing about some foreign foods,” I replied.

She mirrored my pose, a playfulness in her expression. “I’ve never read your books. Did you know that?”

I arched a surprised brow, picking up my glass and taking a sip. Our plates were swiftly cleared, then I ordered two of their divine double chocolate cheesecakes. After finishing them, and ordering a couple of whiskeys, I fixed my eyes on hers.

“So, my books? Want to guess what they are about?” I asked, shuffling my chair closer to Sorcha’s.

“Is that a challenge, Enzo?”

I had to smile, as her inner feistiness was starting to shine through. I took a sip of the single malt, then nodded.

“Maybe?”

She swirled the amber liquid around, dropping her gaze for a moment, then she looked back up at me, a very wicked twinkle in her eyes.

“Okay. Then you have to guess what kind of books I love to read,” she said, a sweet smile appearing on her lips.

“Challenge accepted,” I replied. “But I did see you as a classics fan?”

Sorcha snorted into giggles, scrunching up her nose, and hell, she looked delectable. She shook her head, then threw back her drink.

“God no,” she finally replied. “I read them at college, then Uni. They took way too long to get going, and we studied them so intimately that I’ll never read them again. My turn,” and she studied my face intently.

I adored her eyes on me, and I had to smile again as she bit down on that bottom lip once more.

“Are you trying to read my mind?” I asked.

“Ha, ha,” and she slapped my arm, scrunching up her nose again. “I don’t see you writing historical novels.”

“Correct, and it seems as though you enjoy beating me,” I drawled.

As I had answered her, she was draining the last of her whiskey, snorting again, then she coughed and giggled. She slapped my thigh this time, and I chuckled.

“Enzo, fucking hell,” she gasped.

CHAPTER 12

Enzo

“Ididn’t do anything, yet you keep smacking me. You okay?” I replied.

I swiped up the napkin, and I held it out to her. She took it and wiped her chin. “I almost inhaled my drink,” she exclaimed, grinning up at me.

“I noticed,” and her laugh was the sexiest sound I’d ever heard.

This was going to be fucking torture, as I’d handed the power over to Sorcha. I’d had nothing but my right hand for eight damned months. And it was not the same as being buried deep inside this sexy little lady’s pussy.

“You accused me of beating you, Fuentes. As if I could? Look at the bloody size of you,” she exclaimed. “Compared to me.”

I had to try and stifle the laugh dying to escape, and my dirty mind went to town at the mention of size.

“And that’s why you tried to snort whiskey up your nose?” I questioned, grinning at her.

“Yes. Because the idea is ludicrous,” she answered.

Forgetting our little guessing game, I leaned in, bringing our faces much closer, and she stiffened a little, sitting up taller. I gazed right into her dark brown eyes, and they dilated, causing my entire body to erupt into flames.

“Now, sleeping arrangements,” I said.

“What about them?” she whispered, panic flashing across her face.

“Don’t panic, Hermosa,” I said gently. “I was going to suggest you go up first, and change for bed?”

“Why?” she blurted, then blushed all over again, clamping her mouth shut.

I arched my brows at her, and sat back in my chair, finishing my own whiskey. “Are you going to strip in front of me?” I asked, playfully.

“No,” she gasped, becoming flustered. “I can change in the bathroom, that’s what I meant.”

The older couple at the table beside us began to chuckle, and the older lady threw me a little wink.

“They’re cute as a button,” she said.

“Aren’t they,” her husband replied.

I smirked, noticing Sorcha turning even redder, and I winked. “We do make a cute couple, don’t you think?” I whispered into her ear. “Shall we?” and I stood up, offering her my arm.

She picked up her bag, then stood too, threading her arm through mine.

“Gentlemen still exist, Dora,” the older man said.

Sorcha snorted as we left the restaurant, and I looked down at her. “And that was for?” I asked.

“Your reputation is the furthest from gentlemanly,” she whispered, and I groaned, raking a hand over my face, and through my hair.

“Very funny, lady. I’m going to be the perfect gentleman from now on,” I drawled, then I led her to the elevators.

As we waited, I dropped a light kiss on her cheek. She let out a tiny squeak, and my dick twitched in my pants. I adored her responses to my touches.

“I’m sorry about the room, Sorcha. It wasn’t intentional,” I said.

“One night, right?” she replied, gazing up at me. “And there’s more than one bed.”

I couldn’t resist, and nudged her shoulder a little. “So, you don’t ever want to share with me?” I drawled.

“Enzo,” she huffed.

“That wasn’t a no,” and she went to slap me again, but stopped. “And no smack?”

“Oh, shut up, Fuentes,” she muttered.

The elevator doors opened, and I allowed her to step in first. Sorcha strode inside, then leant against the wall. I mirrored her pose on the opposite wall, hands in my pants pockets, smirking over at her.

“Why are you smiling at me like a predatory snake about to strike?” she questioned, narrowing her eyes at me.

Jesus woman…

She was so infuriating, but instinct took over, and I walked to her. Her spine stiffened as one of my hands landed on the wall beside her head, and I leaned in, grazing the lobe of her ear with my lips. I felt her tense, but she remained still, her chest rising and falling rapidly. Being this close to her was so damned good.

I whispered into her ear, the scent of her driving both my heart and body fucking nuts. I closed my eyes for a brief moment, then I spoke.

“I’m smiling because I’m looking forward to the day when I wake up next to you. Naked, satisfied, in my fucking arms. Mine, Sorcha, and only mine,” I answered.

“What?” she stammered.

“I’m in this for the long haul, Miss Barnes, and I’m going to prove it to you. I see how I affect you. Just know that you do the same damned thing to me. And I can’t wait for you to finally realise that you and I? We belong together… for the rest of our lives.”

Sorcha

As we left the elevator, my mind was replaying Enzo’s words, and it made my heart thunder inside my chest, body temperature shooting through the roof.

I felt as though I were sitting in the middle of a very delicious bonfire.

Long haul.

Belong together.

Shit, shit, shit, lady. Enzo really wanted me?…

Enzo was holding my hand, our fingers entwined, and it felt so natural. As though our hands were made for each other. The way he’d called me his? Hot as bloody sin. And to know that I made him feel all ‘hot and bothered’ too?

Holy bloody crap.

“Tired?” he asked, and his sensual voice pulled me back to the matter at hand.

I took a deep breath as he opened the door to our room, allowing me to enter first. After the long day we’d had, and the emotional rollercoaster I’d been on? I was exhausted.

“Yeah, I’m bloody knackered,” I admitted.

He chuckled as he removed his suit jacket, then turned and looked at me. “I love your filthy mouth,” he said, winking like a sexy devil.

Standing in this room brought back that fateful night, like a tsunami slamming into me. Our bodies pressed against each other. Skin on skin, sweaty, sticky… hot. What this man had done to my body was burned into my memory. I’d never felt like that ever before. Multiple orgasms, earth shattering, and…

“Sorcha?” and I spun around to see a bemused Enzo watching me.

“What?”

“Where on earth did you disappear to?”

“Nowhere.”

“You can’t lie, Hermosa.”

“Shut up,” I mumbled, and he smirked.

I inwardly cringed, going to my suitcase, and rummaging for my nightshirt. He walked over to me, then kissed my cheek.

“Shutting up. Now, get ready for bed,” and he disappeared into the bathroom.

I heard him moving around, so I quickly yanked my dress off, depositing it onto the bed. I slipped my nightshirt over my head, then took off my bra underneath it, and I quickly tugged the hair ties from my plaits, shaking it free. I picked up my own toiletries bag, and turned around, then froze as my entire body exploded with dirty, filthy lust.

Enzo sauntered out of the bathroom wearing nothing but a pair of black fitted boxers. Defined, toned chest and abs, powerful thighs, bulging biceps.

Holy shit.

Then my eyes dropped to the impressive bulge, and yet another mouse-like noise fell from my lips, as my brain failed me once more.

“Jesus, good god.”

“You okay?” he asked, dropping his bag onto his open suitcase.

“What?” I croaked, clutching my toiletries bag to my chest, eyes still on his huge...

“Sorcha?” he questioned, and I blinked, eyes flying up to his rather bemused face.

I simply shook my head, then bolted for the bathroom, slamming the door behind me, trying to still my racing heart, and needy bloody pussy. I leaned on the cool surface of the door, and smacked my forehead with the palm of my hand.

“For the love of…” I whispered.

Enzo Fuentes was literally in the next room. In the flesh, and he looked like a fucking heavenly, hot and sexy bloody treat. He’d caught me staring at his dick, for god’s sake. He knew. He knew exactly what I was thinking, and I wanted the ground to swallow me whole.

Nope. No. I wanted his head between my thighs, dirty fucking slut. I glanced at my reflection in the mirror, and I was as red as a tomato.

“Sure you’re okay?” he called.

“I’m fine,” I called back, cringing at the high pitched tone of my voice.

I quickly washed my face, cleaned my teeth, then stood, staring at the closed door. Secretly, I was trying to pluck up the courage to go back into the bedroom, where the most gorgeous man I’d ever known was residing. I took a deep breath, then turned back to the mirror. I leaned on the counter, closed my eyes, and whispered to myself.

“He’s just a guy, Sorcha…”

Smoking hot guy who called you his endgame…

“Shit,” and I ran a hand over my face. “I can do this. I can resist the urge to jump that fine fucking ass,” I whispered, and I rolled my eyes at that last statement.

Delusional cow.

I placed a hand on the cool handle, but paused, dropping my forehead onto the smooth wood of the door. There was only one image in my head. Enzo emerging like a bloody sex god, in nothing but a tight pair of boxer shorts. The way he’d smirked, as though he knew what I was thinking, caused my face to heat to astronomical temperatures.

“Are you staying in there all night, Hermosa?” he called.

And my brain did it again, as the words simply flew out of my mouth. “Depends. Are you naked?”

Why in the fuck did I just say that?... daft cow.

He let out the sexiest chuckle, and my pussy went into overdrive. I pinched the bridge of my nose in frustration, cursing my idiotic mouth. That man screwed with every bloody ounce of logic and sensibility in me.

“Sorry to disappoint you, but no, my little bookworm,” he replied.

I groaned, but took another breath, and flung the door open.

Oh holy fucking crap buckets.

He was sitting on the makeshift bed, laptop on his thighs, the sheets caressing his lower body, giving me a teasing outline of his legs. Bloody hell, he was sexy. I truly wanted to trust him, but his reputation was known across the globe. A womaniser. A commitment phobe, and a ridiculous flirt with every woman he came into contact with.

He promised to prove to me that I could trust him, and that was the main issue I had. He’d already shown a completely different side to himself since appearing in Italy. But, the doubts still niggled, prodding my heart and brain.

As I started for the double bed, I noticed his feet sticking out at the end of the mattress. I snorted, and nudged them as I passed.

“I told you that would happen. Are you sure?” but he cut me off.

“And I told you that you are taking the double. End of discussion,” he answered, and he winked with a cheeky smile.

I walked to the side of the huge bed, trying not to gawk at his fine form on show. “And you promise to behave?” fell out of me.

“I told you. I’m waiting for your lead. For you to come to me,” he replied.

“You’ll be waiting a while,” I blurted, then cringed, as that was a bloody blatant lie.

“Your body tells me otherwise,” he fired back.

I whirled around, as my anger bristled at both him, and myself, because he was annoyingly correct.

“What the hell does that mean?” I snapped.

CHAPTER 13

Sorcha

He dove from the floor like a god damned gazelle, and he was in front of me, so close that I felt the heat emanating from him. He gripped my arms firmly, his face in mine, mouths almost touching.

“God Sorcha, you are the most… frustrating, stubborn, beautiful, sexy woman I have ever had the pleasure of fucking knowing. But you need to hear me, and hear me clearly.”

I couldn’t drag my gaze from his handsome face. His chest now brushed against mine as he tugged me closer.

“Right now? I’m dying to throw you onto the bed, rip this shirt off you, and fuck you into next year. I’m screaming internally, because I want to wake up next to you, then fuck you all over again. I want you writhing under me, your cum all over my fucking cock. Not just once, Sorcha. For fucking ever,” and he scooped me off my feet, dropped me onto the bed, then yanked the sheets down. “Get in,” he ordered.

Nothing. Not one word came to me, and I simply did as I was told, then he leaned in, and kissed my forehead, my cheek, then my lips. He kept his face close, then whispered into my ear.

“I am fighting every fucking urge I possess to stop from doing what I want. But I will wait for you. Goodnight, Hermosa.”

He stood up, and walked back to his mattress, dropped onto it, and picked up his laptop once more. I sank into the pillows, clutching the sheets tightly, in a weird, shocked stupor. I dared to glance over at him, my head a mess, totally turned on, and I didn’t know whether I was coming or going.

“Goodnight, Enzo,” I whispered.

His eyes lifted, and he winked with a soft smile. “Dream sweet dreams, Sorcha,” he replied.

I stared at the ceiling for a few moments, but I had to say something. I needed to, so I could actually bloody sleep.

“That was very honest of you.”

“Sí, Hermosa,” he replied. “I refuse to hide anything from you.”

I rolled onto my side, looking right at him. He was clearly editing, and I watched him for a few moments. The way a cute frown appeared between his brows as he concentrated. How he twirled his pencil between his fingers.

“Thank you,” I finally said, closing my eyes.

“Sure thing,” I heard him say, then I swiftly drifted into the land of dreams, and only one person was on my mind…

Mr Enzo, sexy arse, Fuentes.

Enzo

Morning crept under the curtains above my head, and the sun's rays landed on my face, rousing me from a very interesting night’s sleep. This single mattress was way too short for my tall frame. My feet were cold, and I groaned at my aching muscles.

“Mierda,” I grumbled.

I sat up, my eyes going straight to the double bed, and the love of my life. Her hair was a heavenly mess, framing her beautiful face. The sheets wrapped around her, where I should have been, and I took in the curves of those sexy legs and hips. I wanted to hold her so badly. Having her here made it so damned hard. I desperately wanted to touch her.

I sighed, and clambered to my cold feet, stretching out my aching body. I paused, then turned to watch her sleep for a little longer. My feet moved of their own accord, and I leaned down, kissing her forehead.

“I’m in love, Hermosa,” I whispered. “Ti amo.”

She let out a small whimper, and it was the most divine sound I’d ever heard. I had to back away, as my dick was starting to get fucking hard. I took a deep breath, then turned, and walked to the bathroom. I switched on the shower, kicked off my boxers, and stepped under the water.

My cock was standing to attention, so I took it in my hand, and started to fist myself, my other hand on the tiled wall. The memory of Sorcha’s mouth around me caused me to let out a small groan, but I bit down on my lip, trying to stay quiet.

“Oh god, I’m sorry” came a very shocked voice, and my head whipped around to see Sorcha disappearing.

I chuckled, but kept a steady pace on my cock. I had to release the tension, so I called out, slowing my hand.

“It’s okay, Hermosa,” then I fisted myself faster, breathing becoming shallower as my orgasm came racing towards me, imagining Sorcha on her knees, and that sexy little mouth taking me deep.

After a few more seconds, I unloaded all over the wall, and let out a long sigh. I quickly washed, then wrapped a large bath towel around my hips, and grabbed another for my hair. I walked back into the bedroom, and Sorcha was huddled on the bed, book in hand, and my heart exploded with fucking joy.

“Sorry,” she muttered.

“No need,” I replied, drying my hair.

“My head was in my arse.”

“Seems so, as you didn’t hear the shower running,” and I dropped the towel onto the floor.

“Ha bloody ha,” she retorted, eyes finally lifting to meet mine.

I grabbed fresh boxers, slipping into them before discarding the towel from my hips, and she looked back down at her book.

“You don’t have to be embarrassed. You’ve seen me naked, Hermosa,” I said, smirking at my little bookworm, hiding her face.

She physically shrunk lower into the bed, a very subtle moan coming from her, and she glanced back at me, her cheeks a lovely shade of pink.

“Stop it, Enzo.”

“Stop what?”

“Just… well, oh, bugger off,” she exclaimed.

Her beautifully shaped legs appeared as she darted from the bed, and bolted into the steamy bathroom. I smiled to myself as I found a t-shirt, and my black jeans. I dressed quickly, brushing my unruly hair. I needed a haircut, and a trim of my beard.

Sorcha reappeared with a fresh face, and tidy hair. I kinda loved her messy bed hair. It made me want to be the cause of it in the future.

“When do we leave?” she asked, gathering her things together.

“After breakfast,” I replied.

She paused what she was doing, a deep red summer dress in her hands. Her dark brown eyes captured mine, and they held a softness in them. A softness that I wanted to drown in.

“What is it, Sorcha?” I asked.

“You really think I’m beautiful?” she questioned.

“Sí. You are,” I replied, my eyes soaking up her curves, and that lovely bit of softness around her middle. “And perfecta.”

She scrunched her nose again, then sighed. “You’re not just saying that. You know? To…” and her eyes moved to the bed.

“Damn it, Sorcha,” I groaned, and all control flew out of the fucking window.

She was within reaching distance, so I yanked her into me, and she gasped as she hit my chest. I slammed my lips onto hers, and I kissed her like I’d never kissed any woman before. As though my life depended on it.

My heart swelled as she relaxed into me, and her arms snaked around my waist, hands moving up my spine. Her lips parted, so I slipped my tongue inside, tasting her, and my cock started to pulse in my fucking pants. I had to back away, before I threw her on the bed.

“Fuck, Hermosa,” I croaked. “Stop doubting me, Sorcha. Please?” I pleaded. “I refuse to seduce you. I refuse to treat you like the long line of meaningless women before you. I want you to do that to me. When you decide? I’m all fucking yours.”

Her pretty eyes gazed up into mine, and she chewed her lip again, hands still holding onto my waist.

“You want me to seduce you?” she fired.

“Seduce? No. Choose the moment, time and place to get naked? Hell fucking yes,” I replied. “No other woman exists for me now. Just you. I want only you. Now, get dressed, and I’ll meet you in the breakfast room,” and I kissed her forehead, then strode swiftly from the room.

Sorcha

I stared at the closed door where Enzo had vanished, and my heart had skipped several beats at his words. That kiss had been toe curling, breathtakingly hot, like nothing I’d ever experienced in my entire bloody life.

“Fuck,” I whispered.

I quickly dressed, then finished packing my things. I scooped up my bag, and I dug out my phone. There were rather a lot of messages waiting for me. Numerous ones from Natasha, a couple from David, then an unknown one. I groaned, and threw it back into my bag, then grabbed the keycard. I walked out of the room, along the hallway, and down the stairs to meet the beautiful, sexy guy that I suddenly craved like air.

He was waiting in the lobby as the lift doors opened, and he grinned. I noticed the blonde behind the desk, subtly eyeing him up. He didn’t pay her any attention, and he strode over, wrapping his arm around my waist. He kissed me confidently, then grinned.

“You took your sweet time, Hermosa,” he purred.

I saw the young woman deflate instantly, but Enzo took my hand, and he walked to the dining room.

“You are such a shit,” I whispered.

“I don’t care. She was trying to flirt with me all over again. Very fucking irritating.”

He walked through the room, and found the same table as the previous evening. He pulled out my chair, pecking my cheek, then he sat right next to me, arm draped around my shoulders. The waiter appeared, and we ordered a full English breakfast, and coffee.

Lots of coffee.

“Want some juice?” he asked.

“I’d love some.”

He winked, jumped to his feet, and I watched as he walked to the table filled with all the extras. My phone pinged in my bag, and I reached inside to find another unknown number. I frowned, but opened it.

“Hi Sorcha. Long time no see. Hope you’re well. I heard that you know Enzo Fuentes? Can you get a meet and greet for me? As you must be his assistant. Cheers. Ethan.”

I wanted to throw the phone across the room, but I locked it, then dropped it back into my bag, fingers pinching the bridge of my nose.

“Who are you avoiding?” asked Enzo, as he sat down.

“Nobody,” I replied quickly.

“I know that look, Sorcha. I’ve done it myself in the past.”

I shuffled in my seat, but I felt as though I should be honest. Enzo wanted that, so I groaned and sat up a little taller.

“Someone from my past. And I really don’t want to talk to him,” I admitted.

Enzo’s hand covered mine, and it was comforting, warming, so I looked up into his lovely dark eyes.

“Let’s stay honest, Hermosa. Open books. You know all about my shitty sex life. So, talk to me,” he said gently.

I sighed, and took out my phone. I placed it on the table, then I looked back at this handsome man holding my hand.

“Don’t judge me,” I muttered.

CHAPTER 14

Sorcha

Enzo took my hand and squeezed, a genuine smile on his face. “How the hell can I judge anyone, Hermosa?”

I scoffed into a subtle sigh, and took a large gulp of my lukewarm coffee. He simply stroked the back of my hand with his thumb, and waited.

“I’ve always been a book nerd. If anyone needed me? Library. As long as I could remember, I was the plain girl at school. Boys weren’t interested in me, so I didn’t have much experience in that department. When I started college, I joined a book group, and I loved it. I made friends with people who were just like me.”

“When I left to go to university, it was one of the first things I looked for. I hoped that I’d make more friends that were just as excited about reading as me.”

“Did you find one?” he asked.

“Yes. And we were a great group. After I graduated, I wanted to join another. I had a part time job at the local pub, and one night, a group of people came in. They were talking about a book, arguing, discussing, and I wanted to join in.”

“And?” Enzo asked, sipping his coffee.

“I was invited to join them, and I met Ethan,” and I noticed the shift in Enzo’s demeanour, but I carried on. “We clicked instantly, and started dating not long after. It lasted just over a year and a half.”

“What happened?” asked my tense author.

“We were out having drinks. One of the book club members was called Cherry. She went out for a smoke,” and Enzo raked a hand over his face.

“Took a Cherry to a party once. Nothing between the ears,” and he rolled his eyes.

“Great in bed though, right?”

He shuffled in his chair, and he kissed the back of my hand. “Funny, but finish your story,” he said.

I took a breath, then continued. “Ethan joined her, and they were out there for a while. I decided to go out and look for them. He was fucking her against the wall, down the side of the pub.”

There was a long pause, and I watched Enzo as he dropped his eyes to the cup in his hands. After a charged silence, he finally spoke.

“You had your heart broken,” he said quietly.

“Yes. By Ethan fucking Snow.”

“Ethan Snow,” he muttered.

I nodded, dropping my own eyes before I answered. “He was the first serious boyfriend I had, and it broke me for a long time. I hid inside books, because men in them always came through. My faith and trust in real men was gone. Books became my solace. I flew through them, holing up in my apartment. Safe to say, my book collection is, well, it’s immense. David turned up one day, and he dragged me outside, and back to the real world. He gave me a job as a proofreader, and it was the perfect job for me. He saved me.”

“And threw you right into the path of a womanising man whore,” he replied with a sigh.

I remembered that day. He’d breezed in, and I almost covered myself in coffee. My crush had blossomed as soon as I’d laid eyes on Enzo.

“I know that you watched my behaviour, and it’s understandable that you worry. That’s why I’m going to show you that you can trust me,” Enzo said, with a very warm smile. “Now, it’s going to take a few hours to get to the cottage, so let’s finish up, and get out of here,” and he pecked my cheek, then took me back to our room to collect our cases.

Enzo

The rental car was waiting for us outside the entrance to the hotel. I placed our luggage into the trunk of the car, then I opened the door for my lady. She smiled, and slid into the passenger seat, dropping her bag on the floor. I quickly walked around to the other side, and sat behind the wheel.

My UK cottage was situated in a very picturesque town, and my property was on the very outskirts. Decent gardens, and a riding stable not far from it. And I couldn’t wait to take my Sorcha there. Not one other woman had crossed the threshold, and I was over the damned moon to know Sorcha was going to be the first, and only, female in my home.

“We can stop off for lunch on the way, so settle in for a couple of hours, Hermosa,” I said.

“Cool. I’m just going to catch up on messages,” she replied.

“Sure,” and I started the car, then set off towards my future home with my little bookworm.

As we swiftly left the city, I glanced at Sorcha, and she was smirking at her phone. I grinned smugly, as it was such a rush having her here with me.

Finally.

“What’s making you smile?” I asked.

“Tash is such a comedian,” she replied.

“How so?”

She groaned, then giggled. “Shit, I can’t believe what she just put.”

“And what is that?”

“I can’t,” she exclaimed.

“And why not?”

“She has a way with words,” she replied.

I had to chuckle, and I patted her knee. “Well, now you have me very much intrigued,” I said.

She let out another loud groan, then slumped in her seat. “I can’t believe I’m going to read this to you,” she muttered.

“I’m guessing this is going to be rather personal,” I drawled.

She sat up again, her cheeks reddening once more, but she took a deep breath, then held up her phone.

“She said, and I quote, I should let you fuck me senseless, then report back with a score between one to ten, ten being… oh god, ten being off the charts phenomenal.”

“Que?” flew from me, as my head whipped around to stare at her for a moment.

She snorted into a fit of laughter, and it caused my heart to stutter, but I grinned, turning to concentrate on the road.

“I warned you, Enzo. She’s got a way with words. She also said that you should buy, oh fucking hell, handcuffs,” and she groaned again, before finishing her sentence. “So I don’t run away again.”

She dropped her phone onto her lap, covering her face, and squirming where she sat. I smirked like a damned devil, then reached out once more, squeezing her thigh, making her peak out from behind her hands.

“I already own a couple of pairs, Sorcha,” I said.

My little bookworm didn’t say anything for a few seconds, then she slapped my shoulder, and I glanced at her pink cheeks, and flushed face.

“Are you fucking kidding me?” she fired.

“Not in the slightest, Hermosa. I’ve played many times in the past,” I replied.

I caught her eyes, only for a fleeting moment, but I saw the excitement sparkling in them, and it made my cock twitch to life. Maybe there was more to my little lady than I thought.

“Seriously?” she questioned.

“Seriously,” I replied.

She stared at me with her mouth slightly open, and I simply winked. There were many things that my little bookworm didn’t know about me.

“Wow,” she finally said, then turned her head back to the road. “That’s… a surprise.”

“Oh, my little bookworm. You have no idea,” I answered, a very wicked twinkle in my eyes.

Sorcha let out a cute giggle, then she relaxed back into her seat. We settled into a very comfortable silence. A book appeared in her hand, feet landing on the dashboard, novel resting on her thighs, and I smiled contentedly.

The city swiftly became rolling green fields, small towns and villages, farms with cows, then sheep, in the fields, and I had never felt so relaxed as I did now. I had my lady back, and I finally felt whole. We stayed that way for some time, then her voice floated over to me.

“Wow, what a fucker,” and she dropped her feet.

“What happened?” I asked, knowing it was book related.

“He cheated on her. What a fucking shit,” she replied, and my entire body suddenly tensed.

My mouth became a thin, tight line, hands gripping the steering wheel harder. Her words had caught me off guard, and my heart exploded with the lancing pain of the past.

“Cheating is unforgivable, right?” she said.

“Sí,” I simply answered.

I heard her shuffle beside me, then her hand landed on my arm, gently touching it. “Enzo? What’s wrong? Have you had your heart broken too?”

I frowned, grinding my teeth, as the memory pierced my mind like a fucking bullet. I took a deep breath, then nodded.

“Yes,” I replied.

“How long ago?” she asked. “Shit, you don’t have to tell me.”

Her hand moved to my thigh, and she gave it a gentle squeeze. I moved on instinct, covering it with my own. I didn’t want to lose the warm, comforting feeling of her touch. Charlotte had done the exact same thing to me, as Snow had done to my bookworm.

“My fiancée slept with my best friend,” I replied. “Three days before the wedding.”

“Shit, that’s awful, Enzo.”

I placed my hand back onto the steering wheel, and she didn’t remove hers, which caused a whole bunch of heavenly feelings to wash over me.

“Indeed. In my Mama’s spare room, no less,” I said. “After around two months of drowning my sorrows in whiskey, Raya dragged my sorry ass back to reality. A few weeks later? We were out partying, and I took the first of a long line of leggy blondes home, fucked her, then practically sprinted from her house.”

“Oh,” she whispered.

“Oh indeed. I never called her. And it started a chain reaction inside me,” I admitted.

Sorcha snorted, but she touched my arm again. “A bit too much information, Fuentes, but I’m sorry that happened to you.”

I had to laugh, and I threw her a wink, and smiled. The sheer presence of her seemingly healing the pain in my heart.

“Sorry, Sorcha. But I want to be an open book to you. And you now know why I started on the path that I did,” I replied.

Sorcha was quiet for a short while, and I focused on the road ahead, but I wasn’t prepared for the words that fell from her when she broke the silence.

“Maybe we were meant to be here? You know?”

“What do you mean, Hermosa?”

She didn’t answer right away, then she turned in her seat, bringing her body to face me. “Well, we’ve both had our hearts stomped on. So, maybe we were meant to be here, you know? To heal each other?” she said.

I loved the way that sounded, and I had to turn and smile at her. “Maybe it’s true. We did indeed have our hearts broken, then we found each other.”

“Right?”

“I love that, and you are healing my heart, Sorcha.”

“I am?”

“Sí, cariño.”

“Oh,” and I threw her a warm smile, patting her thigh gently.

We fell silent for a little longer, then she picked up her book. “Do you mind if I read for a bit?” she asked.

“Sure thing, Hermosa.”

I touched her knee, and gave her my best smile. I glanced at Sorcha’s profile as she started reading. This was easy. Comfortable, and that told me one thing.

She was my lady.

Mi señora.

Mine.

CHAPTER 15

Sorcha

Enzo allowed me to read, and I appreciated that more than anything. Reading was my comfort blanket, and I always had at least two books on the go at all times, including my books for work. I settled in my seat, feet back on the dashboard, and immersed myself in the rest of the story. The final chapter was upon me, and it was one hell of a ride, then I got to the final page and cursed.

“Fuck’s sake.”

He chuckled, and his hand touched my thigh briefly. It felt so bloody lovely. I dropped the book, then turned to look at my writer.

“What is it?” he asked.

“Totally fucking irritating is what it is,” I complained.

“Cliffhanger, I’m guessing,” he asked.

“Yes, and bloody annoying,” I muttered.

He chuckled, and I had to gaze up into his face. He was ruggedly handsome. Long straight nose, and very kissable lips. He wasn’t stereotypically handsome. Like, say, Henry Cavill. He was rough around the edges, but perfect too. His hair was always a little messy, and he was sporting stubble on his jaw, and around his mouth.

Enzo was an older guy. About eleven or so more years than me, but I didn’t care one bit. I wanted everything he’d told me that he wanted to give me, so I smiled, remembering his words at the hotel, in the lift. My eyes finally noticed the change of scenery, and I frowned.

“How long have I been reading?”

He patted my knee, and I looked up at him. “Around an hour or so,” he replied, and I frowned again.

“You sure?”

“We’ll stop off for lunch in about half an hour.”

“Shit,” I exclaimed. “Bloody liar. It’s been more than an hour. I’m sorry.”

“Don’t. What’s an extra hour?”

I instinctively smacked his chest, making him chuckle, but I felt bloody terrible. “No. It was rude of me,” I groaned.

“Don’t. It’s a part of who you are, and one of the things I adore about you,” he replied.

The smirk appeared without thinking, smugness washing over me, as I really had to admit that I enjoyed being here with him. The car made its way into a very pretty town, and it was bustling with tourists.

“It’s busy here,” I said.

“Always is, Hermosa.”

We had to do a couple of laps around the packed car park, but Enzo finally found a space. Once the engine was turned off, I grabbed my bags, and shoved the finished book inside. He took my hand and squeezed it.

“Let me treat you to lunch, my little bookworm,” he said, then we left the sanctity of the car, and headed into the masses of tourists.

Enzo

This was one of my favourite places to stop on my numerous journeys to my cottage. This time, however, was extra special. All because of the beautiful human by my side. She hooked her arm through mine, and I led her through the crowds.

I’d loved watching her immersed in her book. All the different emotions flying across her face. I didn’t want to disturb her, so I’d happily allowed her to keep reading. Now, we were walking through the streets, and I was aiming for my favourite place to eat.

I was suddenly nudged, and my eyes fell to Sorcha. Her own were darting around, and I frowned a little.

“People are staring at you,” she whispered. “And taking pictures.”

“Ignore them,” I replied. “Or you can wave at them again?”

She snorted, then slapped my ass… of all things, and I turned to find a suddenly flustered lady.

“You just smacked my ass, Hermosa,” I drawled.

“Shit,” she simply replied. “Sorry.”

“Oh, don’t take it back. I rather enjoyed it, little minx.”

My little bookworm bit down on her bottom lip, chewing it furiously, and her cheeks coloured. I leaned down, and I pecked her cheek, then I quickened the pace, as my mind flew into the gutter, thinking about spanking mi mujer, using those cuffs, and…

“Enzo,” Sorcha yelped, and I stopped, causing her to slam into my body with a thud. “Shit. Slow the fuck down,” she gasped.

I looked down into her eyes, and I chuckled. “I’m sorry, Hermosa. I wanted to get to the deli, so I can feed you. You okay?”

“I’m fine.”

I watched as she rubbed her nose, then I did the same with my finger, making her giggle all over again. I didn’t care any longer, and I pulled her into a hug, holding her tightly. She wrapped her own arms around me, and my heart did happy somersaults. I finally had her in my arms.

Eight months of pining, dreaming about her, and now she was here. I took in a deep breath of her scent, and she smelled delicious… Springtime.

I looked into her dark brown eyes, and she smiled up at me. I kissed her forehead, then took her hand.

“Let me get you lunch,” I whispered into her ear.

“Okay,” she answered.

I gave her hand a small squeeze, then made our way through the throngs of people, to my favourite deli in the town. What we didn’t realise? The numerous phones, which were capturing our intimate, loving moment. Sorcha was about to be introduced to the worst part of my life in spectacular fashion.

I took her to the park over the bridge, and we found a rare secluded spot, where we sat on the grass. I handed her the tub, and the wooden knife and fork. I took out my own, and we settled as we began to eat. Tourists sauntered past us, eating ice cream, British fish and chips, paying us no attention, and it felt fucking amazing. She tucked in and I did the same. This was perfection. Sunshine, good food, and the best company I could ever wish for.

“How is it?” I asked.

“Ish bloody delish,” she replied, her mouth filled with her lunch.

I chuckled at the way she covered her mouth with the back of her hand as she answered. I shoved a large forkful of my own crab salad into my mouth, and we ate silently for a little longer, then I remembered our guessing game from the previous evening.

“You still haven’t guessed what type of books I write, Sorcha.”

She fixed those beautiful dark brown eyes on mine, and she smiled. “And you haven’t guessed what kind I read?”

I put down my salad, and I raked a hand through my hair, remembering that she’d scoffed at the classics. I didn’t think she’d read horror, and her reactions in the car ranged from slightly annoyed, happy, and flustered.

“Bueno, my little bookworm,” I replied. “I’ll take that challenge.”

The sparkle in her eyes made me grin at her like a devil. She put down her food, and stared up into my eyes, a cheeky smile on her face.

“Ask me a question,” she said.

“Fine. It isn’t horror.”

“God no. You don’t write slushy romance.”

“Correct. You enjoy spicy books.”

“Shit,” she muttered. “That one’s right. Do you write fantasy?”

“Partially right. Spicy romance and fantasy?”

“Crap, yes. Is yours dark fantasy? With murder?”

“Well done. I mix crime with fantasy. What’s my prize?” I asked, grinning.

She chewed her bottom lip for a moment, then Sorcha blushed. She sat up, then leaned forward, touching her lips to my cheek.

“That good enough?” she asked.

“More than,” I replied, and I touched her cheek tenderly. “I adore you, Sorcha,” fell from me, and she literally giggled.

Before she could respond, our phones both sang out, informing us of a message, then they started to go crazy. I frowned as I pulled out mine, then Sorcha retrieved her own. My messages were from David, Tyler, Raya and Abbi. I groaned, then Sorcha spoke from beside me.

“David, Tash, Harrison, shit.”

“What?”

“My brother sent me a screenshot, look,” and she showed me a very popular online gossip site, and I frowned.

A picture of us amongst the tourists, my arms around my lady, lips pressed against her forehead, but the headline made my blood boil.

“Enzo Fuentes Caught Cheating on his Girlfriend with Mystery Brunette.”

“Mierda,” I growled.

“That’s today, Enzo,” she whispered, eyes darting around the park.

My phone pinged again, so I opened up my messages, and the same picture had been sent by David. His words were simple. “Look after her, Enzo. D.” The others were from my best friend and her wife, and my agent.

“Cheating fucker. She’s so cute. Rxx.”

“Oh my god, she’s so fucking pretty. Don’t fuck it up. Abs xx.”

“You’d better tell me who that is, Fuentes. Do I need to do damage control? Ty.”

I sent a swift heart message to each of them, and a promise to David, to keep his little sister safe. I informed Tyler about my little bookworm, and the fact that she was my woman for the foreseeable future, then I shoved my phone back into my pocket, and took Sorcha’s hand, giving it a swift squeeze.

“I’m sorry, Hermosa,” I said, packing away the remnants of our lunch.

“It’s not your fault. It isn’t fair, but still, you don’t have to say sorry,” she answered, as we each stood up, brushing off grass from our clothes.

I pulled her into me, and I kissed her lips gently. I took her hand again, booped her nose, then gestured with my head for her to follow me. I hated that our peaceful, romantic moment had been fucking ruined.

“Bloody stop it, Enzo.”

“What?”

“Feeling guilty.”

“I can’t help it, Hermosa.”

“For fuck’s sake, Enzo. Seriously. Stop it.”

She smacked my chest again, making me visibly relax a little. “If you chose to be with me, you’d have to deal with this regularly, Hermosa,” I admitted.

“I know that, Enzo. And yet, here I am. I’m not going anywhere,” and she tugged me back towards the bridge, and the car park.

As we got closer, I noticed them lurking around the perimeter of the place, and my feet ground to an immediate halt. Sorcha yelped, as my sudden stop yanked her arm roughly.

“Enzo,” she exclaimed. “Ow.”

They heard my little bookworm’s cry, and their heads whirled around, noticing the two of us, then the screams erupted.

“We need to leave. Right now, Sorcha,” I ordered.

“What? Why?”

“That’s why,” I answered, and she turned to see the gang of women heading right for us.

“Oh shit,” she gasped.

I flew into action, survival mode kicking in. I scooped her from her feet, spun around, and strode swiftly in the other direction.

CHAPTER 16

Enzo

“Where are we going? Can you outrun them?” she questioned.

“Somewhere where we’ll be left alone, and yes. I’m rather experienced at it, Hermosa,” I replied.

I ducked into a side street, and the mob swiftly ran straight past us. “I’m an expert these days, my little bookworm.”

She snorted into a giggle, then covered her mouth, blushing, and I winked, grinning like a devil. I sneaked a swift look, then I turned, and I headed to the one place where I was always treated like a normal human being.

A sex-crazed mob of women was an absolute nightmare, and I would not subject my beautiful lady to it. She was my priority now, so I quickly found my way through side streets and alleys, until I saw the familiar blue door. I kicked it with my foot, then yelled out.

“Bailey, let me in. I need a place to hide.”

I heard his deep throaty chuckle from the other side. It opened, and the mountain of a carpenter appeared, hand running over his blonde beard, bright green eyes sparkling with wickedness.

“Fucking hell, Fuentes… oh hello, pretty little kidnapped lady,” he drawled.

“My woman, Bailey,” I huffed. “Off limits.”

Sorcha snorted and giggled again, then smiled warmly at the man mountain. “It’s true, I’m kinda with him,” she added, and my heart went crazy all over again.

“Baying mob, Bailey,” I stated, eyes glancing behind us.

He laughed loudly, allowing us entry. I quickly stepped into his home, closing the door with my foot.

“And you decided to snag one for yourself?” he asked.

I placed Sorcha back onto her feet, and I pecked her forehead, then her lips. “Nope. This little lady is my future,” I answered.

“Pardon?” she fired at me.

“I thought I’d made that clear, Hermosa,” I replied.

“Not in front of real, breathing people. It makes it… real, real,” she whispered.

I chuckled, tugging her into my arms, pressing her flush against me. She buried her head into my chest, and I looked over at my friend. Six one, wider than a house, and made of pure muscle. His sandy hair was tied back into a man bun, shaggy beard, and bright green eyes. He was smirking at me, and I rolled my eyes, reluctantly letting her go. Bailey touched her shoulder surprisingly gently.

“So, little lady. You stole this one’s heart?” he asked.

“Well, I’m not sure?” she replied, glancing up at me.

“Oh you have. I can tell by the way he’s swooning over you, little miss,” he drawled, his huge fucking hand flying out, and smacking me on the shoulder.

I winced, as I had forgotten how damned strong this guy was. Sorcha held out her hand, and she grinned up at Bailey, then side-eyed me, smirking.

“It’s Sorcha,” she said.

He took the offered hand, and he shook it, winking at her. “Well, little miss Sorcha, it seems as though your writer would cross oceans and mountains for you,” and how right he was.

“He already did,” she replied.

Bailey fixed his eyes on mine as my hand flew through my hair, and he arched his brows. “Oh, has he now?”

“He came all the way to Italy, Bailey. Do you have some beers? I really need a bloody drink?” she asked.

I had to chuckle, and he grinned like a devil. “Kitchen is right through there, miss Sorcha. There’s beers in the fridge,” and she rose up on her tiptoes, then kissed his cheek.

“Thank you, Bailey. Do you want one too, Enzo?”

I nodded, then she vanished from the room. Bailey simply smirked at me, crossing his arms over his mammoth chest. I’d known him for years. Ever since I walked into his furniture store, looking for a new wardrobe. I’d finished up buying a chest of drawers, kitchen table, and the wardrobe, then drank a shit ton of beers in the courtyard, out the back of his shop, before crashing on his couch.

“Spit it out,” I drawled, and he glanced towards the kitchen.

“The famous womaniser is in love?” he replied. “And baying mob?”

I nodded, and patted his shoulder. “I’m not going to deny it, Bailey. I’m madly in love with her. And yes, a baying mob of sex-crazed women. I need my car, but they don’t give up easily.”

He ran a hand over his beard, then smacked my arm again.

“Shit, man. Stop doing that,” I complained, and he let loose his deep belly laugh.

“Pussy.”

“Very fucking funny,” and I started toward the kitchen.

Bailey followed, and he piped up from behind me. “You want me to go get your car, don’t you?”

“That would be awesome,” I replied.

“Keys. Where you parked?”

“Tourist car park,” I muttered.

“Really? Bloody hell, fella.”

“Do that, then you get your house back,” and I winked with a grin.

“Give,” and I handed them over.

“Thanks man. I owe you one.”

“Yeah. You do,” he drawled, and he winked at a bemused Sorcha, who was opening two bottles of beer. “Sit tight,” and he disappeared.

Sorcha’s eyes moved around the kitchen, taking in Bailey’s very beautiful handiwork. Her fingers traced the edge of the carved dining table, then she glanced at the items on top of it. She sipped from her bottle, and I leaned against the door frame, watching, soaking in her curves, the line of her neck, and that cute ass.

“Baying mob?” she finally said.

“Yeah. They’re dangerous.”

She snorted, and wandered closer, her eyes coming to mine. “There was what? Six women? How are they dangerous?”

“Women in a gang are the scariest of them all, Hermosa,” I answered.

Her sexy laugh rang out, and it took every ounce of my willpower to stop from yanking her into my arms, and kissing the damned life out of her.

“Really?” she questioned sarcastically.

I pushed from my leaning spot, and walked over to her, then I shoved my hands into my jeans pockets.

“Really, Hermosa,” I replied, gazing into her big brown eyes.

She returned it, unwavering, confident, and fucking feisty as hell. The way she held my stare made me instantly damned hard, and I had to do it. I had to touch her. So, I ran my finger down her soft cheek as I spoke.

“A few women scare you?” she questioned.

“Sí. They are ruthless, hands pawing at you. They are feral in a way men aren’t when they are chasing me,” and I moved a little closer.

She didn’t move, and I saw the sparkle in her eyes. This attraction, and connection, and the air around us, crackled with sexual energy.

“Enlighten me,” she purred.

Fucking hell, Enzo… that voice.

“Lust crazed women will stop at nothing to get their hands on you. Grabbing, tearing, punching their way towards you. Like a pack of rabid wolves.”

She leaned closer, pressing herself against me, and my arms came around her waist. I wanted to kiss her, but she asked me another question.

“And what happens when they get to you?”

“They would devour me, leaving no traces,” and she literally fluttered her lashes at me.

“Devour,” she whispered.

“Sí, Hermosa,” I replied. “But, I only want you to devour me.”

I leaned down, closing the gap, but we were rudely interrupted, as the front door slammed shut, and Bailey strode inside.

“Oh, am I interrupting something naughty?” he drawled.

Sorcha snorted again, burying her face into my chest. I glared at him, as he smirked at me like a fucking demon. He dropped the car keys onto the kitchen counter, and I had to say it.

“Not anymore. Clearly,” I grumbled.

Sorcha snorted once more, lifting her head, and my dick twitched painfully. I was so fucking hard. But, I also noticed the concern in Bailey’s eyes.

“What’s the look for?”

“The buzz is everywhere. And some local reporters have shown up in the vicinity.”

“Buzz?” asked Sorcha.

He nodded, and grabbed a beer of his own, then winked at her. “The buzz about a real famous, sexy novelist. Those women are multiplying, and you, my friend, are all over the social media pages. Check for yourself,” and he left us in the kitchen.

I took Sorcha’s hand, and we followed. Bailey was on the sofa, feet on his impressive coffee table.

“You can crash here, Enzo. But there’s only one spare room,” he said.

“Oh, for fuck’s sake, look,” and Sorcha showed me her phone.

There we were, Sorcha in my arms, and it looked as though I’d fucking kidnapped her. I raked a hand over my face, and pulled out my own phone. I called David, and he answered swiftly.

“David. It’s not what it looks like,” I stated.

“Hey, David,” my little bookworm called out.

“It looks like you’ve kidnapped my sister. Luckily, I know the truth.”

“You see the others too, right?”

“Yes. You and little Barnes are splashed all over the internet. You look like a man truly in love.”

“I am.”

“Then I’ll see the two of you when you get back.”

He hung up, then Sorcha smirked at her screen. She showed me another picture. We were sitting in the park, and she was kissing my cheek. We looked very much in love, and my heart shuddered with joy.

“We look cute,” she purred again.

“We do,” I replied, arching a brow at her.

But, we did indeed need to hide out until tomorrow, so I turned to Sorcha, and she was sending messages. I glanced at Bailey, and he was watching me like a hawk.

“Sorcha?”

“Yeah?”

“We’re going to have to crash here. Is that okay?”

She lifted her head, eyes coming to mine. There was a flash of panic, then she turned to Bailey.

“I’m guessing there’s only one bed in your spare room?” she asked.

“Fraid so, little miss,” he drawled, and I noticed the wicked sparkle in his gaze. “I’ll show you,” he offered, standing up.

Bailey led the two of us upstairs, and along the small landing. He opened one door and said, “This is my room, my bathroom. The spare room has a small ensuite. Nothing fancy,” and he gestured to the other closed door.

I took a deep breath, as I felt Sorcha tense beside me. I swung it open to reveal a real cute, yet practical room. One double bed by the window. Bailey’s beautifully made wardrobe, drawers, and small dressing table and chair.

“I’m meeting the lads at the pub tonight, so you have the place to yourselves. I’m crashing on Dan’s sofa,” Bailey announced.

His eyes were trained on my face, but mine were on Sorcha. She was staring at the lone bed, so I touched her cheek gently.

“I can take the couch?” I suggested.

Bailey stifled a laugh, covering it with a cough, and I nudged him in the ribs. He smacked my back, then started to leave us alone. I threw him my middle finger, making him chuckle quietly, then I turned my attention back to the love of my life.

“Sorcha? I can take the couch,” I repeated.

“I thought you were letting me decide when we shared a bloody bed?” she hissed.

CHAPTER 17

Enzo

Igroaned, and I rubbed my face in frustration. I didn’t want her to think that, so I had to say it. “Sorcha, that’s not what I…” then I heard her snort.

My eyes flew up, and Sorcha fucking Barnes was smirking at me. I rolled my eyes and frowned. “Why are you smirking at me like a sexy little fucking devil, Hermosa?”

She walked further into the bedroom, and she sat on the double bed, swinging those cute, shapely legs.

“I’m sorry, Enzo. The one bed trope flew into my head,” she said.

“So you do have a sense of humour, you bad girl?”

“Very bloody funny, Fuentes,” and she threw a pillow at me. “No sofa. Just promise me you’ll behave.”

I walked over to her, and I leaned down, kissing her cheek, then that tempting spot at the base of her neck.

“You can trust me to keep my hands to myself. But, you may not be able to resist me,” I whispered in her ear.

Sorcha’s eyes lit up, and I saw the fire behind them. She leaned backwards on her hands, fixing me with a fierce, confident gaze.

“You underestimate me, Fuentes,” she purred.

“Oh, this is going to be fun, my little bookworm,” and I held out my hand.

She didn’t hesitate, and she smiled, taking it. I pulled her up into my arms, and I pecked her forehead, then took her back downstairs. Bailey was in the kitchen, cooking his dinner. Sorcha didn’t hesitate, and she moaned loudly.

“God, that smells yummy,” she announced.

“Thanks, little miss.”

“I’ll finish my salad, thanks,” I muttered, scrunching up my nose at the awful smell.

Sorcha

Bailey was a mountain, and he was very rough around the edges… Yet extremely sexy. He was such a character, and I really liked him. He was cooking sausages, and Enzo scrunched up his nose, making me stifle a laugh. I sat down with him, and he passed me my sad looking salad. Bailey handed us both a beer, and he threw me a very flirty wink.

“I’m eating this, then getting ready to go out,” Bailey said.

“Thanks for letting us stay here.”

“No worries, little miss sweet cakes,” he growled.

And bloody hell… What a sexy sound.

“Off limits,” Enzo warned, wrapping his arm around my waist, possessively.

“Ah, keep your bloody shirt on, Fuentes,” Bailey drawled, throwing me a very cheeky smile.

I blushed at his attention, then my eyes landed on the table. I ran my finger over it again. It was exquisite craftsmanship, and I had to ask.

“You made this?”

“I did. For my late wife as a wedding present.”

“Oh, sorry,” I muttered.

He patted my shoulder gently, and sat opposite us. “Ah, don’t be. You weren’t to know, little miss. She passed six years ago. Yes, I miss her, but don’t apologise.”

“This guy is very talented, Hermosa,” Enzo said. “Pretty much all of the furniture in this house was made by yours truly,” he said.

I stared over at the blonde hulk, and he winked as brown sauce dribbled down his chin. “You’re really talented,” I said.

“Thanks, lovely. Got my own shop. Bespoke, handmade stuff.”

“God, I wish I could afford that,” fell from me, and Bailey literally belly laughed.

“You’re bloody gold dust, little miss kidnapped angel. Don’t let this one get away, Fuentes,” Bailey said.

He winked at Enzo, then stuffed the last of his sandwich into his mouth. He stood, rinsed his plate, and left us alone, after smacking Enzo on the back.

“I really like him,” I said, piercing the last slice of tomato.

“He’s a great friend, and a huge fucking flirt,” Enzo replied.

“He’s pretty sexy too,” I purred.

“Excuse me?” he questioned.

I giggled, and nudged him with my shoulder. The look of panic, and jealousy, made me feel a little guilty, so I touched his thigh, shuffling closer to him.

“Just teasing,” I said, and his hand suddenly connected to my arse, causing a high pitched yelp to fall out of me.

“Bad girl,” he growled, and my body went giddy with lust.

We finished our salad, then Enzo stood up, clearing away the empty containers. “Shall we get changed?” he asked.

“Changed?” I asked.

“Into something more comfortable,” he replied.

“Okay. Good idea.”

He kissed my forehead, swiped up the car keys, then waltzed from the room. I watched him go, then grabbed my phone. I called my friend, and she answered almost immediately.

“Oh my god, woman,” she fired at me.

“Hello Tash.”

“Have you two had sex yet?”

“No.”

“What? Why?”

“Will you shut up and listen?”

“Bloody hell, shutting up. Spill.”

“He said we’re endgame. He said I’m his future, Tash.”

“Fuck, that’s amazing.”

“Crap, he’s coming back. Chat soon. Love ya,” and I hung up.

Enzo had our cases in his hands, and he grinned as he put them onto the floor of the kitchen.

“Car is right outside. Now, let’s get comfortable,” he said, and he gestured with a tilt of his head.

“Okay,” I replied, and I followed him upstairs.

As we entered the bedroom, Enzo started towards the bathroom, but my hand shot out, and I halted his steps. He looked down at my hand holding onto his wrist, and I shook my head.

“Oh no you don’t. That bathroom is tiny, so I’ll change in there.”

He arched his brow, and grinned. “With that bossy tone? How can I refuse?”

I didn’t engage my brain, and I rose up on my tiptoes, kissing his cheek. Enzo moved like lightning, his arm wrapping around my waist, and his lips covered mine. I didn’t want to resist either, and I kissed him right back. His lips felt so good, but he broke it, winking at me.

“I’ve been dying to do that all fucking day,” he said.

I loved the way he was looking down at me, but I turned and rummaged for my nightshirt, and some comfy lounge pants. I vanished into the bathroom, and I quickly changed, then I walked back into the bedroom, only to come face to face with a half naked writer.

Again.

Black jogging bottoms, naked top half, and I was staring at his very impressive muscular back.

“For the love of,” and he turned his head. “Why don’t you have a top on?”

“Good timing?” he replied, grinning.

I felt the heat rising in my face for what felt like the millionth time today, but I rolled my eyes, and headed for the side of the bed furthest from the door.

“In your dreams, Fuentes,” I stated, but a small smirk crept onto my face.

“I saw that,” he said as he pulled on a black fitted vest.

“What?”

“That sexy little smirk you do, when your walls are down.”

“I do not, and… and I don’t have walls,” I scoffed.

He closed the gap without me noticing, and his hands were on my waist. He eased me into his body, and I gazed up at him.

“You do. And so did I. It happens without you knowing,” he whispered.

“But,” I started, but his finger touched my lips, halting my words.

His dark eyes locked onto mine, and I was unable to look away. There was nothing but tenderness in his gaze, and he smiled softly.

“When you get your heart broken into a million pieces? It happens slowly. Brick by brick, you subconsciously hide it away. As your heart slowly heals over, the scars linger, never fading, and the walls stay up, to protect it from ever happening again.”

“Pretty great way of describing it,” I replied quietly.

“Described it many times in my books, Hermosa.”

My hands were pressed against his chest, and I could feel his heart racing, as was mine. He knew. He could feel mine too. We gazed at each other, enjoying the closeness, and it felt so right.

Perfect.

“There’s nothing wrong with admitting our attraction, Sorcha,” he finally said.

He touched my lips with his, then he winked. “Let’s go. I need to edit, as I have a deadline. You’re very welcome to read, my little bookworm,” he said.

He took my hand, kissed the back of it, and walked us back downstairs to the living room.

Enzo

Bailey left us around fifteen minutes later, and now we were settled on the couch. Sorcha had a book in her hands, and I had my laptop on my knees, notebook and pencil balanced on the arm. I was trying to concentrate, but the fact that we had to share a bed tonight was seriously distracting me. Sorcha was my forever, and I wanted to hold her while we slept. But I knew I had to allow her to come to me. She had already overcome the ‘waking up in the same room’ thing. And I loved her morning face. She was so damned cute.

Now, she was huddled next to me, head in her book, and I was getting nowhere swiftly. I sighed, and glanced over at my lady. It had been almost two hours since we got comfortable, and I needed to stretch.

“So,” I said, breaking the silence. “Are you going to admit it?” I asked.

Her face appeared from inside her book, and there was a delectable frown on her face. “Admit what?”

“That you’re attracted to me too?”

Her teeth worried that bottom lip once more, and she hid her face behind the book again with a cute little moan.

“I think you’re beautiful, and extremely sexy, Sorcha,” I said.

She sighed again, but her eyes peaked over the top of her shield, and she blinked up at me.

“What?”

“Admit it, Hermosa. Admit your attraction,” I pressed.

Sorcha hid her face again, fidgeting where she sat, but I didn’t push any further. I simply waited for her response patiently.

“Yes,” she finally whispered. “Fine. I’m attracted to you.”

Holy shit… Fucking yes.

“That wasn’t so bad, right?” I drawled.

Sorcha rolled her eyes then her face vanished again. “Don’t get too big a head, Fuentes. You won’t fit through the door,” she fired.

The laugh fell out of me, and I reached for her ankles, pulling her feet onto my lap. I lightly slapped her thigh, and I heard a very subtle snort.

“Jesus, lady. Don’t hold back,” and she giggled. “I can hear you laughing.”

In one swift movement, I yanked her further down, book falling from her hands, and I tickled her. She squealed, slapping at my hands, and her laughter was the most heavenly sound.

“Stop, Enzo, stop, I can’t… stop it,” and she giggled harder.

I eventually ceased, and she smacked my chest, all flustered and breathless. My body suddenly burned for her, cock straining against my boxers. She half-heartedly glared at me, and I had to grin.

“That was mean, Fuentes,” but she smiled.

“I’m sorry, but you look so beautiful right now,” and I pecked the tip of her nose, then sat up. “And now I know that you’re ticklish,” I added.

“Still mean,” and she retrieved her book from the floor.

I watched as she found her page, then tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “I’m ticklish too,” I said.

Sorcha’s eyes flicked back up to mine as I gazed at her. The corner’s of her mouth curled up into an amused smile, and the book lowered.

“You are? Where?” she questioned.

“Not telling, Hermosa.”

“Not fair,” she exclaimed, sitting up.

I pulled her closer, and I took her face in my hands. I captured her lips in a swift kiss, then I whispered into her ear.

“I’m sure you’ll find out soon enough, Sorcha,” and I saw the flash of excitement in her eyes, before she disappeared back behind her book.

CHAPTER 18

Enzo

Ihad to drag my attention back to my laptop. I needed to get these final edits done, as David would have my head if I was late again. But I was ravenous for Sorcha. I wasn’t prepared, however, for her to shuffle around, and she leaned against my body, head resting against my shoulder, then she looked up into my eyes, and smiled. My entire body went into meltdown, and for the first time in my life, there wasn’t a single thing I could think of to say.

“This okay, Enzo?” she asked.

“Erm, yeah, sure, Hermosa,” I managed to string together, then I went back to my computer screen, trying to still my racing heart.

Silence descended for a while, and I managed to finish the last couple of chapters before Sorcha finally spoke.

“Can I ask you something?”

“Sure,” I replied, smiling at her. “You can ask me anything, Hermosa.”

She dropped her book onto the coffee table, tugging at the bottom of her nightshirt. I adored her body. She was all natural, perfect curves, soft stomach, and those fucking gorgeous hips. A perfect hold while I fucked her from behind.

Focus, dumb ass.

“What did you do after I ran from the car?” she asked.

And my filthy bubble popped instantly. I placed my laptop onto the table too, and I turned to face her. It took me a moment to gather myself, then I took a deep breath.

“I stood there, staring down the street in shock, Sorcha. Then your words crashed into my head, and it felt as though you’d stabbed me in the heart.”

She dropped her eyes for a moment, then looked back up into mine, and the expression on her face was filled with guilt.

“Shit,” she whispered.

“It hurt, Hermosa. A lot. To have my flaws called out like that. From the one person I really cared about? It crushed me. I went straight to David, but you weren’t there. He gave me a huge dressing down, then I found your address, and I went to your apartment. You weren’t there either.”

She sat up and moved closer to me, and I draped my arm around her shoulders. I leaned down and pecked the tip of her nose.

“You were the reason why I wanted to change. I just had to find you, to talk, and tell you how I felt,” I said, honestly. “It was Raya’s idea to get that article published. And it worked,” and she huddled closer.

She sighed, then gently slapped my thigh. “So, the pictures? They were sent to the magazine by your friend?”

“Sure. She leaked them online first, then they blew up from there. The pictures were from a previous premiere we attended, and it went viral on social media too,” I replied.

“And you kept looking for me?” she asked quietly.

“Yes, but it didn’t help that your social media was suddenly a ghost town,” I answered. “I was worried, and in desperate need to speak to you.”

She lifted her head, and those dark brown eyes captured mine in a heavenly chokehold, and I ran a finger gently down her cheek.

“Over the four months you were gone? You were all I could think about. Then you called, and fucking hell, Sorcha, I wanted to yell with relief, and sheer fucking joy.”

“Then you came to get me,” she said.

“Sí, Hermosa. You weren’t getting away again,” and I leaned in, kissing her forehead.

My little bookworm suddenly yawned, and I glanced over at the hand carved clock on the wall. It was almost nine.

“Wow, it got late. Are you tired?” I asked.

She tensed, her eyes darting towards the stairs, so I picked up the beer bottle, and finished the final dregs.

“What?” she asked.

I watched as Sorcha bit down on her bottom lip, and that was her tell. It told me that she was nervous… tense. So, I gave her an out.

“Why don’t you go on up? As I need to finalise a few more edits, then I’ll follow,” and I winked with a smile.

She paused for a second, then she beamed up at me, and jumped to her feet. I watched her as she gathered her book and phone, then started for the stairs. She stopped before climbing, and turned to look over at me.

“Thank you, Enzo.”

“No problem,” and I winked at her again.

As soon as I heard the bedroom door close, I swiped up my phone, and waltzed into the kitchen. I grabbed another beer, then called my friend. The one thing I hadn’t forgotten about? Ethan fucking Snow.

That fucking piece of shit was a snake, and he’d hurt my little bookworm. He’d been trying to contact me recently, which surprised me after I broke his fucking nose a few years ago. But, I’d managed to avoid the slimy fucker pretty damned spectacularly, thanks to Tyler, my agent, fielding the calls.

“Hello, you sexy fuck face,” my friend answered.

“Hey, Ray.”

“You got your bookworm.”

I grinned like a giddy fucking love sick fool, and took a swig of beer. “Yes. I got her, and she’s as amazing as I remembered.”

“Have you fucked each other yet?”

“No, you nosy fucking pervert. I’m not going to jump on her,” and I adjusted my junk, the sexual frustration rearing its irritating head. “I need her to trust me.”

Raya burst into a fit of laughter, and I rolled my eyes, but smirked. “I get that, but why are you calling me?”

I raked my hand over my face, and through my hair, then I took a deep breath. “Ethan fucking Snow,” I simply said.

“What about that slimy fucking shit stain?”

“Sorcha dated him after she graduated college. Then he cheated on her, and broke her fucking heart, Ray,” I replied through gritted teeth.

My best friend went quiet for a couple of moments, then she groaned. “Oh, that little son of a bitch. Snow tried it on with your date, right?”

“Yeah. Broke his fucking nose for sticking his hand up her dress,” I replied.

Ethan Snow was a wannabe author. He’d published a few average books, but he wanted to break into the big leagues. He wanted the fame, and the money, but most of all, he wanted the women. I hated the vile little shit, and he’d broken my lady’s heart in the worst fucking way.

“And why do you sound worried?”

“I’m not, but he’s been trying to contact me, right?”

“Yes.”

“He sent my bookworm a message, asking for a meet and greet with me.”

“So, you’re worried.”

“No,” I answered too quickly.

“Fucking liar,” Raya snapped.

I groaned with frustration and annoyance, but Raya, Madden and Abbi knew me more than anyone else.

“Fine. I’m not losing her to that fucking parasite, Ray.”

I heard her snort, and I growled down the phone at her. Snow was like a snake oil fucking salesman. He was a slimy charmer, and I didn’t want him to sweet talk the love of my life away from me.

“Sorcha’s intelligent, right?”

“Yeah.”

“Then why the hell would she pick that little weasel over you?”

“I just don’t trust him, Ray.”

My best friend sighed loudly, then she said, “Look, don’t worry about that dick. Concentrate on your bookworm. Because, the main thing you have over him? You don’t fucking cheat.”

Sorcha

A quiet bang startled me awake, and my eyes flew open. A brief second of panic hit me at the unfamiliar surroundings, then the soft breathing echoing through the silent room caught my attention. I noticed my book on the bedside table, and I frowned, as I distinctly remembered falling asleep while reading, so I dared to look at the sleeping man beside me.

Enzo was on his side, his delicious muscular back to me. I smiled happily, as I realised that he had graciously waited until I fell asleep before coming upstairs, and that caused a very giddy smile to erupt onto my face.

What a sweetheart… Awww.

I glanced at the clock on the bedside table, and the time read seven fifteen, so that bang must have been Bailey coming home. I listened carefully, but the house was strangely silent. I fidgeted with the sheets, and Enzo made a small moan, rolling over to face me. He was still sinfully hot while he slept, and I couldn’t help but take a moment to truly soak up his features.

His long, straight nose, those soft kissable lips, defined cheekbones and jaw, which was now covered with a dusting of stubble.

Jesus, he was so bloody hot. Ovaries screaming, pussy flutters galore.

“I can feel your eyes on me,” he suddenly drawled.

Shit, shit, shit…

“They are not,” I blurted, and tried to roll over.

His hand, however, halted my movements, landing on my hip, and I gasped at the delicious feeling it ignited inside me.

“Shit,” I yelped.

His eyes opened, and they were gazing right into mine, and those kissable lips I’d just been staring at? They curled up into the most heart melting smile.

“Morning you,” he whispered.

“I wasn’t staring,” I lied, cheeks suddenly burning.

“Right. Sure,” he replied.

He reached up and moved a stray lock of hair from my face. I couldn’t move. I didn’t want to, if I was truly honest. I simply gazed back at him.

“You waited until I was asleep didn’t you?”

Enzo winked, his hand tracing a line down my cheek. “I did. So you wouldn’t be uncomfortable,” he replied.

“What do you mean?”

“ I saw the worry in your eyes. I put two and two together.”

I had been in his company for only three days, and he had crushed every single idea that I had of him. I’d compared him to my cheating ex, Ethan, but he was nothing like him.

Enzo had a reputation, yes. But he was showing me a side I never knew existed, and I really bloody liked this version. It seemed he had a public persona, and a very lovely private one.

“I had a sneaking suspicion that you believed me to be the same kinda guy as your ex. But, I know him. I broke his nose once,” and the surprise had to be obvious on my face.

“What?”

“I caught him fondling my date once. It was at a previous writers convention. Sure, I wasn’t intending to have a relationship with the woman, but I hate cheating,” he said.

“Wow,” was all I could think of to say.

His hand came back to my hip, and he eased me closer. I didn’t resist, and he pressed me into his chest. A happy sigh came from me, and my own arm snaked around his waist.

“I need you to hear me, Hermosa,” he whispered. “One thing I would never do? I’d never cheat. I couldn’t do it. Ever.”

“Why didn’t you tell me that you knew him yesterday?” I asked.

“I was angry that he’d hurt you, but I wanted you to know that you can trust me. That’s why I’m coming clean, Sorcha. I’ve just got you back, and I don’t want to lose you again,” he said.

The joy bloomed in my heart, and a smugness washed over me. I sat up, Enzo doing the same, then he arched his brows, an amused smile on his own lips.

“And what is that smile all about, Hermosa?” he asked.

My hand moved without engaging my brain, and I slapped his very toned chest, making him chuckle. He caught my hand, stroking the back of it, eyes filled with nothing but tenderness.

“Don’t get cocky, Fuentes,” I said. “But, I’m enjoying spending time with you.”

“So, day three, and I got you to like me, admit you’re attracted to me, and we slept in the same bed? I haven’t lost my touch.”

I rolled my eyes, and I lightly punched his shoulder, making him chuckle again. “Cocky,” I fired.

“Happy,” he shot back.

“Happy?”

“Very much so, my sexy little bookworm. And I thoroughly enjoyed waking up with you.”

Those words made my heart go bloody crazy, and my brain failed me again. I leaned forward, my lips landing on his, and I kissed him. My arms flew around his neck, and he swore into my mouth in surprise.

CHAPTER 19

Sorcha

“Oh, fuck,” he mumbled, but he recovered in a flash.

He crushed me into him, and just like that, I was tongue fucking Mr Enzo Fuentes in a bed, half naked. And it felt as though I’d come home.

“Shit, Sorcha,” he gasped, finally breaking free. “I have to put you down.”

I snorted into laughter, and he dived from the bed, hand going to the huge bulge in his boxers.

“Not funny, Barnes. Gonna need a cold shower,” he exclaimed.

I tucked my legs under me, then smiled up at the sexy guy that had flown all the way to Italy for me, told me I was his future, and I suddenly felt so damned comfortable with him.

“Want to shower? Or wait until we get to my place?” he asked, pecking my forehead.

I shook my head, and started to climb off the bed. “Can I wait until we get there? How long will it take?” I asked.

“It’s about an hour and a half from here,” he answered.

He grabbed some fresh underwear, then disappeared into the bathroom, and I heard the shower. I picked out my blue maxi dress, and quickly changed my own underwear. I dressed, then brushed my hair, tying it into a messy bun. As I started packing away the few things I’d used, my phone pinged on the bedside table. I swiped it up, and I frowned at the unknown number.

“Shit,” I muttered.

“What is it?” and Enzo sauntered in, all freshly washed, and looking like a sexy devil.

“I think it’s him again,” I replied.

I saw it this time. The shift in his demeanour, and I quickly opened up my messages. It had surprised me that Enzo knew him. But the idea of my writer breaking his nose? It had caused a wicked sense of joy to wash over me.

“Read it to me, Hermosa,” he asked, coming to stand beside me.

I looked down, then read out the message. “It says, ‘Hi, Sorcha. You might not know him that well, but can you try harder to get a meeting with Enzo Fuentes. I’ll…’” and I paused.

“Go on, Hermosa.”

“I just, well…” and I faltered once more. “I don’t…” but Enzo shook his head, touching my arm tenderly.

“Tell me, Hermosa. Honesty, remember. Read the rest.”

I took a steadying breath, then my eyes dropped back to the message. “He said ‘I’ll make it worth your while. As you probably don’t get much action between the sheets.’”

Enzo

The rage exploded, and I held out my hand. “Hand me the phone, Hermosa,” I ordered, and she frowned up at me.

“Why?”

“Trust me, Sorcha, but that piece of shit does not proposition my woman,” and she slowly handed it over.

I read the words again, trying not to throw it across the room. How dare that fucking son of a bitch? I raked a hand over my face, then gave it back. I took her hand, and I eased her into my arms, her own coming around me.

“You get anything else, please tell me,” I said.

“Why would he say that?” she muttered, burying her head into my chest.

“Because he’s a sly little fucker. Any others? Show me. Don’t hide them, okay?”

“Okay.”

“Are you almost ready?” I asked.

She looked up at me, and her hand cupped my cheek. She rose up on her tiptoes, and kissed me lightly. And just like that, I relaxed.

“However much I enjoyed learning about you punching him, please don’t do it again?” she asked.

“If he dares to put one finger on you? I’ll do more than break his fucking nose, cariño,” I growled into her ear.

She stared up at me in surprise, and I cupped her own face, knowing that I had to tell her how I truly felt.

“Sí, Sorcha. I am deeply, madly in love with you,” I stated.

“What?”

“I’ve fallen head over heels in love with you, Sorcha Barnes. My little bookworm,” and I kissed her slightly parted lips, squeezing her tighter.

I reluctantly released her, then finished packing my own things away. I carried our cases downstairs, a very silent lady following me. As I walked into the kitchen, after leaving the luggage by the front door, I noticed a box on the table. There was a paper bag, and a crisp white sheet of paper, neatly folded with words scrawled on it.

‘Enzo’s Little Miss’.

I smirked as I went to the kettle, switched it on, and proceeded to make us each a well needed coffee. Sorcha appeared, and I had to ask.

“You’re very quiet, cariño. Are you okay?”

“Well, erm, you just told me that you love me,” she said.

I handed her the note, giving her a tender smile. She dropped her eyes to it, and snorted at the words. She then saw the box, and the same words were written on top.

“What’s in here?”

“I have no idea, cariño. It’s for you,” I answered.

I finished making our drinks, then held out her black coffee, sipping my own. She took the mug, and her eyes dropped back to the box, and she ran her fingers over the top. I watched Sorcha with a heart full to bursting with love.

“Open it,” I said, smiling at her.

She put down her mug, pulled up the lid, then she cursed, as a huge grin graced her lips.

“Fuck,” and she reached inside.

“What’s in there?”

“Presents. From Bailey,” and she pulled out a hand carved chopping board.

I had to smirk, as Bailey was such a teddy bear beneath the surface. I walked over to the table, and I looked down at an array of gifts from my friend. Bowls, spoons, coasters and place mats.

“These are stunning, Enzo,” she purred, picking up a bowl.

“They are. You are,” I said, kissing her cheek.

She looked up at me, and her cheeks reddened. I simply winked, then perused the contents. As she studied the surface of the item in her hand, Sorcha frowned, then let out a little, divine yelp.

“What is it?”

“There’s a date engraved on it. Look,” and she showed me the bottom of the bowl.

‘17.08.24 E & S ♥’

“Cheeky fucker,” I drawled with a smirk.

Sorcha rummaged inside, and she pulled out two keyrings, and lo and behold, they had the exact same date on them.

“There’s a note in here for you,” and she handed me a sheet of paper.

I arched a brow, then grinned as I took a large drink of my coffee, before putting it down to take the note. I unfolded it, then pecked Sorcha’s forehead with a wink. The words inside caused my heart to implode on itself, but it felt really fucking good.

“Marry her. She’s gold dust. B :-)”

“What did yours say, cariño?” I asked, staring down at mine.

She suddenly looked down at the unopened note, unfolded it, then gasped, becoming extremely flustered.

“Oh god,” she croaked.

“Let me guess,” I said. “Marry him?”

“He loves you,” she added.

She dropped the note into the box, quickly put the items back inside too, then she turned to look up at me. Her hand found mine, and she entwined our fingers together. I was frozen to the spot, suddenly at a loss for words.

“Simple, and to the point,” she said.

“Yeah,” was the only word in my head.

Her eyes were studying me carefully, then she smirked, and pressed her body against mine. She placed her hand on my chest, and I tensed. This was unknown for the man whore that was… Me?

“Well, this is new,” she purred.

“What is?” I questioned.

“I’ve never seen the famous Enzo Fuentes at a loss for words.”

Fuck. The way she was gazing up at me? It was as though she was reading my damned mind, and it was seriously screwing with my head.

“It’s what you do to me, cariño,” I admitted.

She wrapped her arms around my waist, giving me a swift hug. She unwrapped herself from my body, then stepped back, picking up her coffee.

“You said I could ask you anything, right?”

I grinned like a fucking idiot, but my heart was hammering against my ribs. “I said that, but now I’m a tad worried,” I replied.

She giggled, and my cock pulsed in my pants, then she became rather serious. “All the women? Was it because you were lonely?” she asked.

And holy fucking shit… bang on the money.

I groaned, picking up my mug, and leaned against the kitchen counter. “Maybe you’re onto something,” I answered.

“You serial fucked to cover it up. I hid inside stories, so I guess you’re right about me having walls,” she said.

I had to smile at her, then she came to my side, leaning next to me. “I can recognise walls anywhere, my little bookworm. And you had a huge one.”

“True. But, in three days, you’ve smashed through pretty much all of them. And you’ve shown your true self,” she replied.

This fucking woman. She was heavenly, amazing, and there was no way in fucking hell that Snow was going to lay a damned finger on her again. Sorcha Barnes was fucking mine. I moved swiftly, yanking her into my arms, and I held onto her, as though she might disappear any second. I buried my face into her neck, taking in a deep breath of her very essence, and sighed contentedly.

“I know you’ve handed me the reins, Enzo. Just be patient with me?” she whispered.

My entire body floated up to fucking cloud nine, and I kissed the spot just below her ear. “Waking up with you was amazing, cariño. And you have my word. I will wait for you, because I fucking love you,” and I kissed her, claiming Sorcha Barnes as mine… For fucking ever.

We left Bailey’s house after Sorcha wrote him a thank you note. The wooden gifts were now in the trunk of the car, and Sorcha was settled next to me. She had another book in her hand, but I patted her knee, and winked.

“I know you never proofread my books. So, look in the glove compartment,” I said.

She grinned at me, then she did as I asked. Her little gasp had me smiling, and she pulled out the book. I glanced over as she noticed my name on the cover, then her head whipped around, and she yelped with excitement.

“Is this?”

“My first novel,” I said.

The way she ran her fingers over the cover, then literally sniffed it? It caused my eyes to glaze over, and my cock couldn’t cope any longer.

“You’re giving me your book as a gift?” she questioned.

I chuckled with a nod. “Sí, cariño. Is it a good gift?” I asked.

Sorcha looked about fit to burst with joy, and I had to laugh as she stared at me. “It’s me, Enzo. I’m a book addict,” and she leaned towards me, pecking my cheek. “Thank you,” she whispered into my ear. “Books are better…” but I cut her off.

“Than people?”

“Exactly, well, except my friends, brother… and you,” she replied.

“Me?” I questioned in surprise.

“Yes, but don’t get big headed, Fuentes,” she replied.

I didn’t fucking care, as my little bookworm had included me in her small group of people she enjoyed being with.

“Thank you, cariño.”

“For?” she asked, flicking through the pages of my book.

“Including me, Sorcha,” and her eyes lifted. “And seeing you so happy? It’s made my damned year, Hermosa.”

Sorcha gazed over at me, then she leaned over, and left another soft kiss on my cheek. “Just promise me that the prick Enzo is gone forever,” she asked.

“Forever. Retired, cariño,” I answered. “I promise.”

As I drove us further into the countryside, I kept glancing at her, and she was already reading my book. A part of me was terrified, but the other was thrilled to watch her reacting to it. Every so often, she would lift her eyes and frown at me, then I was slapped, and just as I pulled onto my drive, she let out a rather annoyed hiss.

“What the fuck, why?” she snapped, glaring at me.

“Why what, Hermosa?” I questioned.

“He was one of my favourite characters, you shit,” she fired, then her eyes lifted, and she stared at my home. “Holy fuck. Is this your cottage?”

CHAPTER 20

Enzo

Iparked up, turned off the engine, and looked at my Sorcha. “Welcome to my UK home,” and she whistled.

“It's bloody massive,” she gasped.

“Shall we?” and I climbed from the car.

Set back from the road, and partially hidden with both trees, and purposely placed hedges. It was a huge building, and not one of my previous conquests had ever been anywhere near here. It was still my hidden gem, and I led my future to the front door.

Sorcha stared up at the stone building, dark wooden door, and the large porch covering it. I unlocked the door, and allowed her inside first. She crossed the threshold, and my heart was finally healed.

“This isn’t what I was expecting, Enzo,” she said, eyes soaking in the very rustic decor.

“And what was that?”

“You know? Some modern bachelor pad,” she teased, and giggled.

I walked to the staircase, then winked. “Well, I’m happy to surprise you, Sorcha,” and I started up the steps.

“Where are you going?” she called.

“You need a room, don’t you?”

Sorcha

I jogged up after his sexy butt, and I followed him to a very lovely bedroom. A large double bed, with simple white linen sheets. A huge wardrobe, chest of drawers, and both looked rather familiar. The dressing table too. I stayed near the door as Enzo opened the other, and he turned to look at me.

“Ensuite,” he said. “Your own private space.”

I arched my brows at him, then wandered around the room, taking in Bailey’s furniture. I was a little confused, as we’d slept in the same bed now. So I decided to speak my mind, as I was a tad annoyed.

“So, this is where you want me to sleep?”

“I thought you’d want your own room?” he replied.

“After last night?”

“What?”

“Fine, fucking sleep alone, Enzo,” I snapped.

He stared at me as though I’d grown horns and a tail, then he frowned, annoyance creeping onto his own face.

“And that tone is for?” he fired, glaring at me, and I glared right back. “I thought you told me to be patient, Sorcha?” he stated.

I bristled a little, as I had said that, but I didn’t think he’d want us to sleep alone now. I stood up taller, hands on my hips.

“You tell me you love me, then put me in a separate fucking room? After last night?” I fired.

“Because you asked me to be fucking patient,” he growled.

“And you wanted to wake up with me,” I shot back.

He moved like lightning, and he stalked towards me. I was thrown over his shoulder, causing me to squeal in shock.

“What the fuck, Fuentes?”

He marched from the room, down the hallway, and I smacked his perfectly sexy arse, but his steps never faltered.

“You asked for this, lady,” he growled.

Enzo entered a bedroom a little way down the landing, where I was deposited onto a king size bed. He stalked to the chest of drawers, and I watched as he pulled one of them out. He tipped the contents onto the floor, then slid it back into place, turned around, fixing me with those beautiful eyes, a stubborn fire dancing behind them.

“If you sleep in here? Then be prepared to have my arms around you. Be prepared to be kissed, touched. Yes, I’ll wait for you to make the first move when it comes to sex, but I can no longer keep myself from at least holding you if you share this fucking bed with me, Hermosa,” he growled.

I sat up, staring at him in shocked silence for a few moments, then I grinned. I dived off the bed, and launched myself at him.

“Holy fuck,” he gasped, as my legs wrapped around his waist, arms around his neck.

“Better,” I said, and he finally chuckled.

I had no idea what came over me, and I slammed my mouth onto his, kissing the air from him. He moaned into my lips, and his hands were caressing my arse, but it was Enzo that broke it, and he gazed into my eyes, the desire clear in his expression.

“Let me make you dinner,” he said, running his nose along my neck.

“You can cook?” I teased, thoroughly enjoying his hands, body, lips… Hell, I was swiftly getting hotter by the second.

The sound that fell from him, however, caused my body to go into heat. It was the sexiest noise I’d ever heard. A sound I could only describe as a feral growl… Just like a grizzly bear.

“You are a very cheeky woman, cariño,” he whispered into my ear, kissing my neck as he spoke. “I’ll prove it to you, and you’ll have to take that comment back. Now? I really have to put you down.”

“Oh?”

“Sí, cariño. If I don’t? I won’t be responsible for my actions, you beautiful, sexy little minx,” he growled again.

Holy crap. Horny as fuck.

My cases were now sitting in the hallway, and Enzo was cooking dinner. I had been ushered into the very lovely living room, and ordered to relax. I could hear him in the kitchen, and I had his book in my hands, and I had to admit that his story was addictive. My phone started buzzing on the table, so I picked it up, and my best friend screeched down the phone into my ear.

“Merda, Sorcha. Why the hell haven’t you gotten in touch, lady? After leaving me hanging?”

I had to hold my phone away from my ear at the loudness of the scream. “Hi to you too, Tash. And cheers for bloody swearing at me.”

“Are you even checking your phone?” she fired at me.

“I’ve been a tad busy, Tash, sorry.”

“Busy doing what, exactly? Spill the bloody beans.”

I chuckled , putting down my book, and glancing towards the closed door, which led to the kitchen, where Enzo was cooking dinner. I had offered to help, but he immediately refused, ushering me in here.

“Spill what?”

“Jesus, lady. You know? Have the two of you had amazing sex yet?”

I snorted into a laugh, then rolled my eyes. “No, we bloody haven’t. We’ve kissed, but that’s all.”

She shrieked again, and I held my phone away from me for the second time. “Oh my god, Sorcha.”

“Fuck, stop doing that,” I complained. “You’re going to burst an eardrum.”

“Is he a good kisser?”

“Yes. The things he did to my body, just by kissing me? Jesus, Tash. I really want him to fuck me again, but I’m nervous.”

“Why? You two are made for each other.”

“He told me he loves me.”

“Oh god, that’s huge. What about you? How do you feel?”

“Christ, I think I have feelings for him too, but I’m craving his dick like a sex-starved slut, Tash,” then I heard the cough from behind me. “Oh shit,” and I turned to see a very bemused writer gazing at me, arms crossed, leaning against the frame of the door. “Got to go, call you later.”

“He heard you, oh god,” shrieked my best friend, and I hung up to her laughter.

My entire body was burning with embarrassment, and I prayed for the sofa to turn into a black hole, and suck me into it. Instead, I flung myself face down onto the cushions, hiding.

“Sorcha?” and I heard his soft steps getting closer. “Hey, cariño. Talk to me.”

I cringed, groaning into the material, not wanting to look up. He touched my shoulder, and I squeaked.

“Hiding?”

“Yes?”

“Why?”

“Fuck’s sake,” I muttered.

“Por favor, cariño. Look at me?”

I groaned once more, then reluctantly sat up. Enzo was looking at me with nothing but tenderness, perched on the arm of the sofa.

“You crave me?” he asked.

I grabbed the pillow, trying to cover my face again, but Enzo eased it from my hands.

“Talk to me, my little bookworm.”

I groaned, avoiding looking up at Enzo’s handsome face. “Fine. Seeing as you heard me, then I can’t avoid it,” I grumbled, and I took a deep breath, stomach churning, and heart thundering.

“Not really, cariño,” he said gently.

“I’m craving you, Enzo. That’s very bloody true. Our kisses have been… well, heated. So much so that I want to fucking jump you. I’m so bloody frustrated, because, well, I haven’t been with anyone else since you either.”

Enzo’s eyes had darkened significantly, and he raked a hand through his hair. He moved a little closer, his hand taking my own, and he smiled warmly.

“Very honest, and I’m over the fucking moon that you haven’t been with anyone else, cariño,” and he smirked like a very sexy devil.

I slapped his shoulder, making him chuckle, but a sigh came out of me. I’d started the truth train, so I continued.

“It’s my heart, Enzo. It took me a really long time to heal after Ethan broke it, and it couldn’t take another battering. I know you understand that too.”

He nodded, and I noticed the tension flying into his posture. “I hear you, Sorcha. I understand,” he replied. “At least you chose books, and not a path of self destruction.”

My hand moved on instinct, and I touched his cheek, making him lean into it. “Self destruction is a little harsh,” I whispered.

“Maybe. But, I have to tell you this, cariño. Your heart is safe in my hands. I have never loved anyone the way that I love you. You can trust me, and I meant it when I said that I haven’t been anywhere near another woman since I had you in my bed,” he replied.

He leaned in, and pecked my lips lightly. A part of me didn’t believe that he hadn’t slept with anyone after me, as he was Enzo bloody Fuentes. Known for the long, neverending line of women. But, the truth in his eyes made my heart beat faster.

“Really, really?” I asked.

He held up his right hand, wiggling his fingers in front of my face with a naughty chuckle. “This guy here?” he said. “He’s been my best, and only friend, since you left me in that hotel room.”

The snort made a swift comeback, and I ugly laughed, Enzo chuckling beside me. He didn’t release my hand either. He simply squeezed it tighter.

“Jesus, Fuentes. Too much information,” I gasped

“Honesty all the way, cariño. And I’m rather enjoying it.”

I slowly stopped giggling, my eyes finally drifting back to his own, and my brain decided to malfunction all over again.

“I’ve had a very close relationship with my hand too for a while,” then I squeaked like a demented mouse, hand covering my idiotic mouth, face on fire, as embarrassment washed over me in waves.

“Oh, have you now?” he drawled.

I rolled my eyes, and grabbed a cushion, covering my face again, then I mumbled the words into it.

“Fuck’s sake. I didn’t mean to say that out loud,” and I heard Enzo’s sexy chuckle.

“Well, cariño, you did,” and he eased the cushion away from my face once more.

I didn’t look at him, but his finger touched my chin, and he lifted my face, forcing me to gaze into his beautiful eyes.

“Feelings?” he asked, gently.

“You weren’t meant to hear that, Fuentes,” I muttered.

“I did.”

“You snuck up on my conversation.”

“You weren’t paying attention. Feelings, Hermosa?”

“Fucking hell, yeah. Alright, cocky bugger?”

He grinned, but didn’t say anything. He stood up, pulling me to my feet too. He took me into the kitchen, and gestured for me to sit on the stool. He started to pour us both a glass of wine, handing me a generous measure. Then he went back to chopping the salad.

I sipped my wine, then I decided to tell him something I’d been keeping a secret from all of my friends. From everyone.

“I’ve had a huge bloody crush on you, ever since you swanned into my brother’s office for the first time,” and I clamped my mouth shut, then took a large swig of the wine.

His hand stilled, hovering over the tomato, his head tilting a little, tension back in his shoulders. He put down the knife, picked up the glass, and took a large gulp of his wine. He finally turned to look at me, his eyes suddenly very serious, and I dropped my eyes to the glass being held tightly in my hand.

“Since the first day?” he asked.

I nodded, without saying a word, then I let out a small yelp, as he closed the gap, hoisting me from my stool. I was deposited onto the counter, knocking the chopping board full of salad onto the floor. His mouth covered mine, and he kissed me as though I were about to disappear. I melted in a flash, hands flying into his hair, body craving him, but he pulled away, both of us clearly turned on.

“Jesus, woman. If I’d known?”

“Known?” I asked, trying to calm my racing heart.

“About your crush, lady. Shit. I need to feed you.”

“The salad’s on the floor,” I stated, and giggled.

CHAPTER 21

Enzo

My head was a fucking mess. My little bookworm had been crushing on me from the start? Jesus H Christ.

Unfortunately, the salad was indeed on the floor, as instinct had taken over. I desperately wanted to fuck my lady, but, not only had I given Sorcha the reigns on sex, I also had to feed her.

“Screw the fucking salad, but I need to put you down, cariño.”

I lifted her from the counter, but she quickly started picking up the spilled food. I crouched down, and I helped her clear it away.

“I’ll chop some more, Enzo,” she said, and I had to lean in and kiss her cheek.

“Okay. I’ll set the table,” I replied.

I needed to get a little distance before I caved, and threw her over my shoulder, marched upstairs, and fucked her into oblivion. I grabbed my glass, took a huge gulp of the wine, then walked into the dining room, adjusting my hard dick as I did.

Around ten minutes later, we sat and ate my signature fish pie with Sorcha’s fresh side salad. I quizzed her about her favourite books, now I knew what kind she enjoyed, and she also filled me in on where she was in my own novel.

“You’re enjoying it?” I asked.

“Yes, I am. But, I’m still trying to guess who the bad guy is,” she replied.

I adored the way Sorcha lit up when she chatted about books, and I happily gazed at her as she gave me the lowdown on her feelings on my first ever story. My mind, however, started to wander, thinking about her words from that phone conversation.

She craved my dick… Had feelings for me.

But, the one thing that had floored me? She had been crushing on me all this fucking time, and that pissed me off, as we could’ve been together sooner. Happy, in love, and possibly…

“Enzo?”

“What?” I muttered, as I blinked, noticing that she was wiggling her empty glass at me.

“Can I have a top up?” she asked.

“Sure thing, cariño.”

I sat up, and grabbed the bottle, then stood. I poured, then topped up my own, and took the chair beside her.

“Is there any dessert?” she asked.

I arched a brow, a wicked smile creeping onto my face. And I couldn’t help the words flying from my mouth.

“I’m waiting for one special dessert, cariño,” I replied.

Sorcha shot to her feet, and she glared right into my eyes. She grabbed her replenished glass, then whirled around, heading for the living room.

“Ah, don’t stomp off in a huff, my little minx,” I called.

Her footsteps halted, and she turned her head a little, but not the whole way around. I silently cursed my mouth, but Sorcha spoke up, and her next sentence made my dick instantly hard.

“You can try my dessert when I’m ready to give it to you, Fuentes,” she purred, then she swayed her hips seductively, and disappeared into the living room.

I stared after her retreating figure, mouth parted in surprise. Jesus holy fucking hell. Had my little bookworm really just said that?

Because now? I was fucking ravenous for her, as that was blatant flirting.

As I was about to follow my lady, my phone started singing in my pocket. I retrieved it, and I grinned at the name. I clicked the green icon, and her voice echoed into my ear.

“When were you going to tell me you were going to your cottage?”

“Hola, Ray.”

“I had to find out from fucking social media, and online news pages.”

“I’m sorry, Ray. I was rather busy.”

“How is your bookworm? You fucked her yet?”

“Maldita mujer. No. But, she’s had a crush on me for ages.”

“That’s amazing. But, I’ve seen the headlines, you cheating fucker. Low life paparazzi keep collaring me, asking for comments.”

“So, I need to call Tyler?”

“Yes. He’s been blowing up my phone, asking where you are? Who the brunette is? Have you told her about Charlotte?”

“Yes. We talked. Tell my agent I’ll call him tomorrow. He knows Sorcha is my woman now.”

“Okay. Now, tell her hello, and I’ll call tomorrow. Fuck. I’ll cook you dinner, and I’m happy for you. Love ya,” and she hung up.

Sorcha reappeared, and she grinned. “Was that your girlfriend? I hope you told her hello,” and she walked to the table, stacking plates.

“It was, and Raya said hello too.”

We worked together, and ended back in the kitchen, scraping plates, and tidying up. As we loaded the dishwasher, she nudged my shoulder.

“Seems you can cook.”

“Very funny, cariño,” I replied. “Happy you enjoyed it.”

Sorcha walked to the wine rack, and she opened a new bottle. But, I could no longer resist my urges, and I found myself directly behind her. I dropped a gentle kiss in the crook of her neck, and she shivered at my touch.

“You are so beautiful, cariño,” I whispered in her ear.

“And you’re a handsome, cheeky devil,” she shot back.

I threw all caution out the damned window, and I spun her around, covering her lips with mine. I hoisted her back onto the counter, and her arms came around my neck as we explored each other’s mouths. Hands began to search for skin, and hers were under my T-shirt, my own covering one of her sexy breasts, tweaking her hardened nipple between my fingers. She moaned, as I teased her, then the knock rang out, breaking us apart in surprise.

“What the fuck?” I growled.

Sorcha

We looked at each other in surprise, and I frowned. “Who the hell calls at this time of night around here?” I whispered.

“No-one. Only Ray, Abbi, and Madden know this address,” he replied. “And my agent, Tyler.”

We were both flustered, turned on, but the voice cut through the silence, and Enzo visibly tensed, anger flashing in his eyes.

“Enzo, darling. It’s me. Your honey bunny,” she yelled through the fucking letterbox.

Jealousy erupted deep in my gut, but Enzo crushed me in his arms. “She shouldn’t know where my fucking home is. I’m so sorry, cariño.”

“Baby. Let me in, I need you. Ethan told me you missed me,” she screeched.

“What?” I hissed.

I saw the rage in Enzo’s eyes, but I was also immensely pissed off, so I jumped from the counter, and stalked to the front door.

“Sorcha. cariño. Don’t give them the satisfaction,” he called, following me down the hallway.

I paused, hands balling into fists, and I took a couple of deep breaths. I had an idea what we would find on the other side of the fucking door, and I was dreading every second.

“He sent her, Enzo,” I whispered.

“I know, cariño.”

“He’s seen the pictures online. He’s trying to ruin this for me,” I croaked. “For us, Enzo.”

“That’s jumping to conclusions, Sorcha.”

“Why? It’s fucking Ethan.”

“It’s not clear that it’s you, cariño.”

I frowned, taking in Enzo’s words, then I was yanked in for a very crushing hug. His hands moved through my hair, and he kissed me possessively. The bitch’s voice called out again, and I wanted to run away and hide.

“Honey, open the door so I can pleasure you all night, like last time.”

My heart stuttered, and a dull ache bloomed inside, but Enzo’s arms tightened around my waist, and his breath ghosted my neck.

“There is no way in hell that I’m losing you now,” he whispered. “No fucking way.”

“Enzo, baby, let me in,” she called again, loudly.

“Tu eres mio. Soy tuyo.”

“I can’t wait to feel you inside me again,” the bitch yelled.

“You don’t have to do this, cariño.”

The urge to run was huge, but that would mean Ethan had bloody won. So, I took a deep breath, and touched Enzo’s concerned face.

“I do, Enzo. I can’t hide away from this anymore. You and me? You said forever,” I replied, standing taller. “You just said I’m yours, and you’re mine, right?”

He pulled me into his body, holding tightly for a few moments. “Sí, cariño. Stay in control, my beautiful little bookworm, and know that I love you,” he said, tenderly.

My heart went crazy at his words, so I quickly rose up on my tiptoes, capturing his lips in my own possessive kiss, claiming his mouth as mine.

“Okay, boyfriend. Let’s get rid of the bloody rubbish,” I said.

I stalked to the front door, unlocked it, and swung it open to find a literal human ‘Barbie’ on the other side.

“Will you keep your damned voice down,” I snapped. “This is a quiet place, and you’ll wake up the whole bloody neighbourhood with your irritating voice.”

She glared at me, the hatred in her eyes very evident. Her gaze raked over my messy hair and dress, bare feet, and steely stare. She was tall, slim with huge buoyant fake boobs, blonde hair, clearly coloured, and those pouty lips that had been filled more times than I could probably count.

“Get out of the way, you ugly little hag,” she ordered. “Enzo and I don’t need you around, so shoo, cleaner.”

She literally snorted, laughing nastily, then tried to step inside. Enzo was standing right behind me, his hand touching the small of my back, and it soothed me instantly. I stood tall, and my hands landed on her shoulders, shoving her backwards.

“No-one said you could come inside,” I snapped.

“Get out of the fucking way, you horrid little creature,” she hissed, evilly.

Enzo’s hand was on my waist, squeezing gently. “What the fuck are you doing here?” he growled.

“I’m here because you miss me, baby,” she purred, and she shoved me backwards, and my back slammed into the wall of the hallway with a thud. I winced a little, and Enzo let out a deep growl.

“Move, you little cretin. Baby, your cleaner needs to be fired for being so damned rude.”

Enzo reached out for my hand, and I took it. He eased me behind him, and his eyes narrowed. “cariño, go upstairs to our bedroom, and wait for me,” he ordered.

Human Barbie giggled, then started to try and come inside, but Enzo’s arm shot out, blocking her path.

“Baby,” she purred. “I’m looking forward to seeing your room. Are you going to get rid of that first?”

“Not you, bitch,” Enzo snapped. “Sorcha, go up to our bedroom, and wait while I get rid of the fucking trash,” he said.

He turned, and touched my lips with his finger. The blonde hissed, then let out a squeal, stamping her foot.

“What are you doing, baby? That little hag needs to know its place,” the witch fired at me.

“Listen to me, you little cretin. No-one insults my woman the way you just did. No-one lays one fucking finger on her. She is everything you fucking aren’t. Now, get off my doorstep, whatever your fucking name is. Leave my private property, as you are not welcome,” he growled.

“But, Enzo, honey. We were so great together.”

“Do you not hear me? I don’t even remember your fucking name, you stupid little girl. Tell Snow he lost this round. Now, fuck off, and don’t ever show your face here again. If you do? I’ll have you arrested for stalking and trespassing,” he warned. “Now get off my damned property.”

He slammed the door in her shocked face, locked it, then turned to find me hovering on the stairs. He appeared in front of me, scooping me from the floor, then striding towards the bedroom. He pushed open the door, and he placed me onto the bed.

“Stay,” he ordered.

CHAPTER 22

Sorcha

Iwatched him leave the room, and I shuffled up towards the headboard, wondering what he was doing. He was only gone for a few minutes, and he appeared with a bottle of whiskey, two tumblers, and his phone pressed between his ear and shoulder.

“Sí, Tyler. She turned up on my fucking doorstep… Yes. Sorcha is my girlfriend, my future, and I need to know that she’s safe too… I know. Great, thanks. See you when we get back,” and he dropped the phone onto the bed. “Can you hang up the call, cariño?”

I did as he asked, then watched him as he poured us each two fingers of whiskey, then put the bottle on the bedside table, and handed me one of the tumblers. He swiftly undressed, then climbed into bed.

“Get undressed, Sorcha. Let’s get some sleep.”

I didn’t question him, as the look in his eyes didn’t bode well. I jumped off the bed, grabbed my night shirt, then pulled it over my head. I unzipped my dress, dropping it to the floor, bra following. Enzo didn’t watch me change, but he pulled back the sheets for me. I scooted under the covers, and I was yanked into his arms.

“I’m so fucking sorry, cariño,” he whispered, his face nuzzling my hair.

“Don’t do that, Enzo,” I replied, running my hands through his.

“I can’t help it. She was so fucking rude to you, and she shoved you.”

“She was, but she’s not the one here with you. I fucking am. And the look on her face before you shut the door was priceless.”

He groaned, and he gazed into my eyes. The look of love and tenderness made my heart soar, and he kissed the tip of my nose.

“She met the prick, Enzo. I know the real you,” I whispered.

“True. I invented him to protect my heart, but I attracted women like that bitch tonight. I really thought love was a joke, then I met you,” he replied.

I shuffled in his arms, and I smiled at him. He returned it, and I had to do it. “Kiss me, Enzo. Right now.”

He didn’t hesitate, and his mouth covered mine, hands roaming each other’s bodies, and I moaned into his lips.

“Fuck, cariño,” he groaned. “I want to taste you. Let me make you come?”

I gasped as his hands roamed up my thighs, lips now kissing my neck, and I couldn’t resist him any longer.

“Yes, god, yes, please,” I begged.

In seconds, he was kissing downwards, and my entire body trembled with anticipation. I suddenly yelped, and he looked up at me with a little crease between his brows.

“What about you?” I questioned.

“Don’t worry about me, cariño. Just let me taste you,” he whispered.

“But,” I started.

“No buts. I want to make you feel good,” he growled.

Enzo eased me onto my back, then he moved down the bed, hands caressing my curves as he did. I watched with hooded eyes as he kissed up my thigh, hands now lifting my nightshirt.

“These need to come off, cariño,” and his finger moved underneath the band of my cotton knickers. “Lift up this sexy little ass.”

Enzo

Her eyes glazed over, my cock so fucking hard now, but I had to taste her. That bitch had insulted my beautiful lady, so Sorcha needed to be cared for. I had to show her how much I loved every fucking inch of her. She giggled as I tugged at her knickers.

“Lift, you sexy little minx,” I ordered.

She did as she was told, and I swiftly relieved her of the cute pair of black knickers. Once they were shoved under my pillow, I kissed upwards, over her calf, in the crook of her knee, then up over her inner thigh until I reached her glistening pussy.

“So deliciously wet, cariño.”

I spread her legs open for me, then ran my tongue over the length of her, halting at her clit. The heavenly taste of my woman caused me to moan like a dog in fucking heat. I bit down, then circled my tongue around it, and my little bookworm let out a sexy yelp.

“Holy fuck,” she squealed, her hands flying into my hair.

“Mmmm,” I moaned, and I went to town.

I covered her divine pussy, licking, nipping, then I pushed a finger inside, hooking it so I could hit that extra sensitive spot just right. I lifted my eyes, watching Sorcha gasp, sigh, and writhe at my greedy onslaught.

“Ohmygodfuckingyes,” flew out of her, and she bucked her hips, chasing her release, riding my face.

I smirked into her pussy, teasing her clit with my teeth and tongue, adding another two fingers, fucking her, and watching her slowly come undone.

“Shit, Enzo,” she cried. “There, god don’t stop.”

I tightened my grip around her thigh, my shoulder pressing down on the other, spreading her as wide as I could get her, pumping into her, working her into a stunning, messy frenzy. I felt her begin to tremble, and I knew she was close, her gasps and moans echoing around the bedroom. I moved my fingers at a steady pace, not letting up on her abused clit.

“Enzo, yes,” she cried, then arched off the mattress, body tensing, and she exploded onto my tongue.

I didn’t stop my greedy onslaught while my sexy little minx continued to shake, moan, and fist my hair tightly. I was like a ravenous fucking dog , not stopping until Sorcha finally turned to jelly, relaxing into the bed. My eyes found a breathy, panting, heavenly woman, and I kissed my way back to her neck, then I covered her mouth.

I knew she would taste herself on my lips, but she didn’t seem to care, running her hands up my spine as our tongues danced together.

“You taste fucking divine, cariño,” I whispered, after I broke our kiss. “Are you alright?”

“Fucking hell, yes I am, Fuentes,” she fired, her mouth curving into that adorable smile.

We stared into each other’s eyes for a few more moments, then I reluctantly moved away. If I stayed any longer, I would free my painful cock, and fuck her into the early hours of the damned morning. I swiped up our whiskey tumblers, then I took a sip as Sorcha sat up.

“Where are my knickers, Enzo?”

I almost choked on the mouthful of whiskey, then wiggled my brows at her. “In a safe place?” I replied.

She smacked my arm, and held out her hand. “Give,” she ordered.

I reached over, pulled them out, then took a long sniff before handing them back. “Spoilsport,” I replied.

“Bloody perve,” she fired back.

“And I have no regrets, cariño.”

I watched as she shimmied back into them, then hopped off the bed. She leaned in and kissed my lips, then vanished into the bathroom. I finished the amber liquid in my glass, then slipped back under the covers. I couldn’t help the smug smirk as I waited for the love of my life to come back to bed.

She reappeared and took my breath away, sliding onto my lap, a delectable leg either side of me. Her arms came around my neck, and she pressed her lips to mine. I wrapped her up, pressing her body against me, hands roaming up her spine, then her shoulders as we kissed.

“Which side do I take?” she asked.

“I usually sleep on this side,” I replied.

“Okay,” and I reluctantly allowed her to climb off.

As my sexy little bookworm shuffled down under the covers, I felt like the luckiest motherfucker in the world. That plastic bitch was a distant memory. But Snow was going to pay for sending her here. This was my private haven. Away from the fans, sex thirsty women, and he’d screwed with that. Put it in jeopardy.

“Can I ask you something?” Sorcha whispered, as she snuggled into my outstretched arms.

“Sure, cariño.”

“Why didn’t you have sex with me, Enzo?”

I sighed and kissed her lips, the tip of her nose, then her forehead. “I’m desperate to fuck you, cariño. I just don’t want you to regret rushing things because of that bitch. And fucking Snow. Angry sex? It never works. And this is a new relationship,” I replied.

“Relationship?”

“Yes, cariño. We’re in a relationship. You’re my one, Sorcha. And you called me your boyfriend downstairs.”

She blinked up at me, and my heart went fucking nuts as she ran her hands through my hair. I simply smiled down at her, then gave her another swift kiss.

“Thanks,” she said quietly.

“For?”

“For not fucking me then.”

I chuckled, and shuffled a little to get more comfortable. I sighed contentedly, and Sorcha rested her head on my chest.

“Only when you’re comfortable and relaxed. Then you decide, cariño.”

“Thank you.”

“No problem. Are you going to sleep?”

“Is it alright if I read a little?”

“Sure. I can do some editing.”

Sorcha untangled herself from my arms, jumped from the bed and walked over to her bag. I grabbed my laptop, which was on my bedside table. The notepad was on the shelf below, along with an array of pens. I watched as the love of my life climbed into my bed, and I smiled smugly as she propped up pillows, then settled down with a very familiar book in her hands… Mine.

“Are you enjoying it,” I asked.

“It’s okay?”

“Only okay?” I questioned.

I saw the wicked little smile, then she glanced over at me. I sat up a little taller, and I mirrored her smile too.

“At the moment, it’s enjoyable,” she purred, then her eyes went back to the pages.

I had to do it, as this was the most surreal thing in the whole world right now. I reached out and ran my hand up the soft skin of her thigh.

“What are you doing?”

“Just checking that you’re not a figment of my imagination,” I replied.

“Imagination?” she asked.

“Yes, cariño. I’ve been dreaming about having you here, in my bed. I just need to reassure myself that you’re real.”

The bookmark was rammed between the pages, book dropped onto the bedside table, then Sorcha fucking Barnes grabbed my laptop, placed it onto the bedside table, then she landed on my lap, hands in my hair, and she rammed her mouth onto mine.

“Is this real enough for you, Fuentes?” she purred into my ear, kissing along my neck.

“Jesus Christ, cariño,” I groaned, dick swiftly beginning to stand to attention.

My hands were on her hips, and they roamed around to her sexy little ass. Sorcha lifted her head, and our eyes locked onto each other. She looked so damned fine straddling me, and I kissed her again.

“This is definitely real enough, you cheeky little devil” I replied. “And such a fucking delicious view,” and my eyes dropped to her curvaceous figure.

I pressed her flush against me, capturing her lips once more, and she moaned as her hands came back to my hair. My dick was as hard as hell now, and my little bookworm was slowly rocking her hips over me.

“Sorcha,” I murmured into her lips.

“Mmm.”

“This will only lead to one thing.”

“What?” she questioned, kissing along my neck.

“You’re dry humping me, cariño.”

“Shit,” she giggled. “Then I’d better get off,” she purred.

“Yes, you’d better,” I answered, reluctantly lifting her off, and plopping her down next to me.

She snuggled under the covers, and I followed suit, adjusting my hard cock as I did. I didn’t hesitate though, and I eased her into my body, needing to feel her next to me.

“Come here, cariño.”

She giggled into my side, then shuffled to get comfortable. I ran my fingers up and down her spine, and Sorcha sighed.

“Goodnight, cariño.”

“Goodnight, Enzo.”

Holy fuck… Heaven.

CHAPTER 23

Enzo

Ifelt her warm body fidget behind me, her arm snaked around my waist. I very carefully rolled onto my back, eyes finding the most delicious damned sight. Sorcha moaned softly, then nuzzled her head against my chest, hand resting on my stomach. And for the first time in my entire life, I couldn’t move, not knowing how to respond.

Did I kiss her, touch her? I wanted to hoist her on top of me, and fuck my woman, then her voice floated into my ears, and it was laced with mirth.

“Oh hello. Someone is happy to see me,” she purred.

“Cheeky little minx,” I growled into her hair.

Sorcha giggled, and lifted her head, those very lovely dark eyes fixing onto mine. I grinned, and ran my fingers through her cute, messy bed hair.

“Morning, Fuentes.”

“Good morning. Kiss me,” I ordered.

She literally smirked, then shuffled up my body, and I groaned at the heavenly sensations exploding through me. Sorcha kissed me more confidently, then sat up, raking her hand through her own hair. I watched as she stretched, then brought her eyes back to me. I had my hands behind my head, smiling happily.

“Did you sleep okay, cariño?”

“Really great. But I need to pee,” she replied.

She shot out of bed after pecking my lips in a very delicious, swift kiss. I chuckled as she vanished into the bathroom, then I adjusted my extremely hard cock before climbing out too. The doorbell echoed through the quiet cottage, and my phone began to dance on the bedside table. I jiggled my painfully full balls, then grabbed a pair of jogging pants.

I seriously needed to come inside my little bookworm, but I had promised to wait for Sorcha to take the lead, but I thought they might combust on their own. I hadn’t had the chance to jerk off since the hotel, and Sorcha was constantly turning me the fuck on.

I looked down at the name on my phone, and I grinned. I fired off a swift message, then the front door sounded.

“Who is it?” called Sorcha.

“My best friend. The blonde.”

Sorcha reappeared, then launched herself into my arms. I staggered backwards as I caught her, laughing. Her mouth landed on mine, and I could taste the toothpaste on her lips as she kissed me.

“Thank you for last night. You’ve been hiding such a lovely side, Enzo.”

“You’re welcome, cariño. I gave you my word. I’m dying to fuck you, but on your terms, and in the right frame of mind.”

My best friend’s voice called from the bottom of the stairs. “If you two are fucking, I’ll be in the kitchen.”

I rolled my eyes, and pecked the tip of Sorcha’s nose. “Raya,” I said. “And later? If you want me? I’ll be all fucking yours, cariño.”

She captured my lips with hers once more, and my heart began to race. She left hot kisses along my neck, then lifted her face to mine.

“I’ll hold you to that, Fuentes,” she whispered.

Oh fucking hell yes…

“You want to shower?” I asked, popping her back onto her feet.

“I’ll use the one in the spare room.”

“Does that mean this one is ours?” I asked

Sorcha gazed up at me, and chewed that poor bottom lip again. “As long as that’s okay with you?” she replied.

“More than okay,” I answered.

She smirked, and rolled her eyes cheekily, then disappeared from our bedroom. I swiftly relieved my bladder, washed my face, and brushed my teeth, then headed downstairs to be met with a million questions from my best friend.

Sorcha

I showered in record time, then pulled on the same dress that I’d worn yesterday. I brushed and tied back my wet hair, and left my face bare of makeup. Well, except for eyeliner and a few sweeps of mascara. I picked up my phone, not bothering with shoes, then headed downstairs to meet the blonde who had kick-started this whole thing. As I neared the kitchen door, I heard their voices, and I paused to eavesdrop.

“You’re letting her take the lead?”

“Yes. I need her to know that her heart’s safe with me.”

“Well, I’m proud of you.”

“I’m in love, Ray. I can’t lose her. She’s my one, and I’ll do everything I can to prove it to her. Sorcha’s got all of me, and I want to give her the fucking world.”

My heart went bat shit crazy, fluttering, racing, and I couldn’t help the smug smile which crept onto my face. Enzo Fuentes loved me.

Me… Holy fucking crap.

Eat shit, Ethan, you fucking twat. You’re not ruining this.

I took a deep breath, then waltzed inside to be met by two pairs of eyes. One set of beautiful, familiar dark brown ones. The other? Mischievous, bright blue. My writer was on his feet, and I was engulfed in his powerful arms.

Enzo had to bend down quite a way, as I was barefoot, and tiny compared to him. But, in one swift motion, I was hoisted into the air, my feet dangling as I was kissed possessively, lovingly, and a girly, yet muffled, giggle fell out of me.

“Hey, my sexy little minx,” he whispered into my ear.

“Jesus, Fuentes. You’re squishing me,” I giggled again.

He simply grinned, and that smile caused a fire to erupt in my lady parts, the memory of his mouth pulling out that phenomenal orgasm from me last night, making me blush profusely. He walked back to the kitchen island, and gently popped me onto a vacant stool.

“I could’ve walked, Enzo,” I exclaimed.

“But I enjoy touching you, cariño,” he fired back, winking.

I grabbed his t-shirt, forgetting that we had company, and I yanked him to me, capturing his mouth in a yummy, yet swift kiss.

“I like this one, Enzo,” came Raya’s voice.

I snorted, letting him go. “Sorry. He’s a cheeky shit, but he has a very talented mouth,” fell out of me, then I blushed all over again at the way Enzo’s eyes lit up.

“Do I now, cariño?” he growled into my ear.

“Cocky shit,” I fired, slapping his arm.

“You started it, little lady,” he fired back.

I rolled my eyes, but couldn’t help the smile that graced my lips, as I looked up into Enzo’s dark eyes. He threw me a wicked wink, then kissed me swiftly. The extremely beautiful blonde was smirking at the two of us, then she fixed those sapphire eyes on mine.

“Well, it’s finally great to meet the elusive lady who’s stolen my best friend’s heart,” she said.

“Raya, this is my Sorcha. cariño, this is my best friend,” and I smiled up at her.

“Hi,” I said, holding out my hand.

“Oh, don’t. Come here,” Raya exclaimed, and I was wrapped up in a very crushing hug.

Once she released me, pecked Enzo’s cheek, then moved back to the other side of the counter, Raya stared right into my eyes, sipping from one of Enzo’s mugs. I shuffled a little under her intense gaze, then I had to say it.

“I thought you were his girlfriend.”

She snorted into a fit of laughter, then wiggled her wedding finger at me. “Very happily married to my wife,” she said, with a wink.

“You’re my girlfriend now, cariño. And I’m talented,” Enzo growled into my ear, and his hand landed on my ass.

He squeezed hard, making me squeak. “Shit, Fuentes. You cheeky swine,” and I smacked his shoulder.

“Ah, you love it, cariño,” he drawled, leaving soft kisses along my neck.

“Bloody hell. Shall I leave you two randy rabbits to it?” Raya laughed.

“Knock it off, Ray. And where’s our coffee?” Enzo asked.

She rolled her eyes, but patted my shoulder as she walked over to Enzo’s fancy coffee maker. As she busied herself, Raya spoke very candidly.

“After you vanished,” and she turned to glance back at me. “Rather spectacularly, I may add. It took this crazy fool three bloody weeks before he told us. And he was a complete mess.”

The guilt began to crawl up my throat, and Enzo’s arm came around my waist, tugging me closer, as he seemed to sense the shift in my mood.

“We were pretty surprised at the state of him. He wasn’t sleeping, spent way too much time at the gym, and he practically turned into a fucking priest,” and she put down coffee mugs, sugar bowl, and the bottle of milk.

Raya was a stunning looking woman, and those eyes were again fixed on mine. I squirmed where I sat, and I chomped down on my bottom lip, guilt and shame now crawling outwards, all over my skin.

“I didn’t want to like you, Sorcha. But, hell. The way my best friend is looking at you? You at him? It’s obvious that you’re both crazy about each other. And, there’s a fire behind your eyes, little missy. You’ll keep this bloody fucker on his toes,” and she finally smiled widely.

Enzo rolled his own eyes, then leaned in, kissing the spot just below my ear. I dropped my eyes, stirring the coffee enthusiastically, secretly thrilled at her final words.

“I always called him a man whore prick,” I finally said. “Because he acted like one.”

“Hey, cariño. Thanks for nothing,” he gasped, hand covering his heart dramatically.

I snorted into giggles, and slapped his thigh. “You know I adore the real you. Now you’ve finally chosen to show him to me,” I replied.

“Better,” then he closed the gap, kissing my lips tenderly.

Raya stood up tall, threw down the remainder of her own drink, then grinned at the two of us. Enzo’s face was currently buried in the crook of my neck, his nose brushing my skin.

“Christ, I was here to help, but you two sickly lovebirds clearly don’t need any. I’ll bugger off and get the food for tonight. Abbi’s sorting the alcohol, so I hope you’ve got a strong stomach, little miss bookworm?”

Raya winked, and I saw the wicked sparkle in her eyes. Enzo snorted into laughter, then smacked my ass.

“Cheeky witch,” he drawled, looking up at his best friend.

“Always. Catch you both later,” she replied, and she swiftly left us alone.

The sound of the front door slamming shut echoed through the cottage, and Enzo leant on the counter, gazing at me as I sipped my coffee.

“What would you like to do today, cariño?” he asked.

“I don’t know,” I replied.

“I have to fit in some writing, but…?” and he winked at me. “Talented mouth?”

I groaned, taking a long swig from my coffee. “Very bloody funny, Mr big head. I’m hungry, and how about a little tour of the town?” I suggested.

“Sure thing. I’ll make us pancakes, with strawberries. Eggs and some bacon. How’s that sound?”

“Delicious,” I replied.

As I watched Enzo collect ingredients, I sipped my coffee, feeling happier than I’d done in a very long time. My phone was sitting on the counter top, and it buzzed to life, grabbing my attention. My eyes fell to the screen, but it was an unknown number. I frowned , but opened it anyway.

“Hello stranger. How are you?Did you get my previous message? Hope the single life isn’t being too harsh on you. Especially since your Fuentes is still sleeping his way around the globe. I noticed the new mystery brunette. Don’t get too upset that he overlooked you, poppet. You’re just not quite glamorous enough, lovely. Talking of Mr. Fuentes, can you get me an audience with him? I want to chat to him about book stuff. Author to author. Ethan.”

I stared down at the words, heart hammering, rage bubbling beneath the surface, and I wanted to throw my phone across the room.

That vicious son of a bitch.

CHAPTER 24

Enzo

Sorcha was staring down at her phone, a cute little crease between her brows. I paused what I was doing, and turned to watch her.

“cariño?” I questioned.

Her eyes lifted, and she let out a loud frustrated groan.

“Fucking bastard,” she hissed.

“Don’t tell me? Snow?” I growled, and I stalked over to my lady, wrapping my arms around her.

“Yes,” and she pushed her phone closer to me.

My gaze dropped, and I read the message, anger rising with each fucking word. He was heading for another broken damned nose.

“Delete it, cariño. Let’s eat, take a walk, then I’ll treat you to lunch,” I said, kissing her forehead.

“I can’t believe the cheek,” she muttered, and did as I asked.

I went back to the food, mixing the batter, then Sorcha appeared beside me. I looked down at her as she began preparing the strawberries, but her brows were furrowed. That snake had gotten under her skin.

“Don’t worry about that son of a bitch, cariño. He will not ruin our day,” and I kissed her temple. “Let’s have a lovely breakfast, then get ready to go out.”

After we finished our food, and Sorcha insisting that she would clear up, she was now slipping into the passenger seat of my car.

“Wow,” she exclaimed. “This is bloody flashy, Enzo.”

“It’s my ‘prick’ mobile,” I beamed.

A Mclaren 720 in black. Leather seats, and those doors that lifted like wings. Sorcha rolled her eyes with a cheeky smirk as she fastened her seatbelt.

“With these crazy doors? No wonder you attracted a certain type of woman,” she teased.

“They weren’t just blondes, cariño,” I replied. “Some brunettes, redheads,” then the guilt hit me.

That fucking blonde’s words last night barrelled through my head, and I wanted to smack Snow for sending her here. I also needed to know how he managed to get my address. Only my closest friends knew it, including my agent and David.

“Enzo?”

I blinked, and my eyes darted across to my little bookworm. She was staring at me intently, and her hand landed gently onto my thigh.

“You okay?”

“Si, cariño,” I lied.

Sorcha scoffed, and my arm was lightly smacked. I stared down at my sexy little lady in surprise, and said, “What the hell was that for, cariño?”

“You’re lying, that’s what it was for, Fuentes.”

I rolled my eyes with a loud sigh. “I’m sorry, cariño. My cottage is my private place. I don’t know how fucking Snow got the address, but the vile things that bitch said to you? She pushed you into the fucking wall. Mierda,” I exclaimed, raking a frustrated hand through my hair.

Sorcha’s seatbelt clicked, and she fiddled with the door handle. It rose up and she shot out. I watched her, wondering what the fuck she was doing. I opened my own door, beginning to step out, but my feisty little bookworm appeared, and her hands landed on my chest, shoving me back into my seat.

Miss Barnes then slid carefully onto my lap, arms coming around my neck. She leaned closer, and her mouth covered mine. My sexy minx kissed me, and my own arms wrapped around her waist, deepening it, slipping my tongue between her parted lips.

“cariño?” I asked, once she broke the delicious kiss.

“Stop it. You’re doing the same as I did. I’ve spent two nights, and nearly three full days with you, and I finally understand something.”

“And what is that?” I questioned.

“That we need each other,” she whispered.

I stared up into her warm eyes, and sighed. I dropped my head onto her shoulder as she played with my hair.

“Your past is well documented. The world knows your reputation, including me. It’ll be weird for us at first, and I know what happened last night might happen again. But, let’s move forward. Together,” she said.

I stared at Sorcha for a few shocked moments, then my hand flew to the back of her head, and I crushed her mouth again, kissing her hungrily, desperately. Claiming Sorcha’s soft lips for myself. She moaned, but I needed to stop before I fucked her right here in the damned car.

“Fuck, cariño,” I groaned, fidgeting uncomfortably, due to my huge fucking boner. “I don’t fucking deserve you, Sorcha Barnes,” I whispered, without thinking.

“Fuck’s sake, Fuentes, yes you do,” she fired at me, eyes blazing. “We need each other.”

I stroked her cheek with my thumb, and I had to smile. “Interesting way to look at it, cariño,” I replied.

“You’re welcome. Here all week,” she purred, then grinned, making my heart beat so damned fast.

I mirrored her smile, and winked at her, slapping her sexy butt. “Crazy woman, climbing onto my lap in the fucking car.”

“Yep. I’m as mad as a box of frogs,” she announced, then kissed me swiftly before jumping up.

I arched my brows and scratched my chin, watching her waltz around the front of my car, then fumble with the door. I chuckled as I pressed the button to open it for her.

“Daft bloody door,” she grumbled, as she slid back into the passenger seat.

“Box of frogs?” I questioned. “Enlighten me?”

Her head turned, and the seat belt clicked shut. Sorcha suddenly snorted into giggles, making my cock even harder.

Painfully so.

“It means I’m crazy, Fuentes. Shall we go?”

I shook my head in amusement, then pecked her cheek. “Sure thing, cariño.”

It only took around ten minutes to reach the small town, and I aimed for a secluded private garage, which I had purchased when I bought my cottage. I pressed a button on my key fob, and the door lifted, allowing me to drive inside.

“A private garage?” she asked.

“As you can see, my car stands out a little among the land rovers, tractors, and pick-up trucks,” I replied.

“Yeah, flashy,” she said.

I turned off the engine, and took a hold of Sorcha’s hand, gazing at her. She gave me her winning smile, so I eased her closer, my other hand cupping her cheek. I captured her lips with my own, and kissed her slowly, confidently, and a delightfully sinful moan emanated from her.

“Stay,” I ordered in her ear.

“Bossy,” she fired back.

I jumped from the car, strode around to the passenger side, and opened the door. I held out my hand, and Sorcha grinned as she took it.

“Mr gentleman,” she purred.

“Boyfriend, Sorcha Barnes,” I answered, as I helped her onto her feet. “Remember?”

“What?” she asked, not quite paying attention.

“Relationship, cariño. That means I’m Mr boyfriend,” I replied. “And you called me that first.”

Sorcha

My brain melted into a mushy mess, heart fluttering, as though an army of butterflies had camped out in there, and I felt my cheeks turn crimson.

“I guess you are,” I answered.

“Sí, my little girlfriend,” he growled.

“Kiss me,” I demanded, suddenly ravenous for him.

Enzo bloody Fuentes grinned, and his entire face lit up. His strong arms wrapped around me, crushing me into his sexy body. Our mouths collided, and it was one of the most toe curling kisses I’d experienced in my whole fucking life.

“Holy crap,” I gasped once we broke apart.

“Excuse me?”

“You can’t do that to me in a public place, Fuentes,” I stammered.

“What?”

“Kiss me like that, and turn me the fuck on,” I fired at him.

He arched his brows in amusement, and he held out his hand for me. “Let me show you around, cariño. And I believe it was you, my sexy lady, who demanded a kiss,” he drawled.

“Not a tongue fucking, Fuentes.”

“I can’t help it, and happy to know you enjoyed yourself,” he said into my ear.

But, his voice had deepened to such a bloody sinful tone that a small squeak came out of me, and my knees buckled, threatening to leave me in a heap on the floor. He took my hand, winking like a sexy bloody devil, and led me out into a very picturesque little town.

The locals knew him really well. He was waved at, chatted to, and I was introduced to the owners of the butchers, local wine merchant, cheese deli, and the fishmongers. The owner of the newsagent gave him a bag full of… sweets?

Enzo accepted them graciously, and they had a brief conversation about my writer’s next book. But, the manager of the local bookshop gave me the best freebie of all. The choice of three free paperbacks.

“You just made my girlfriend’s day, Charlie,” I heard Enzo say.

It felt so bloody strange hearing him say that, and I had to glance around at the sexy man. My boyfriend happily chatting to the bookshop manager. He was relaxed. Free of stress, but he turned, catching me gawking at his sexy ass.

“Oh shit,” I gasped, eyes going back to the books.

“I saw you, cariño,” he called out.

Even though I was now hiding behind a stacked bookshelf, and he couldn’t see me? My cheeks burned, lady parts screaming for attention, and I made a huge decision while I was hiding. I wanted Enzo’s dick tonight.

I needed him to rail me all bloody night long.

Once we left the bookshop, my paperbacks nestled inside a paper bag, Enzo held my hand as he walked towards the local pub, where he was going to treat me to lunch. I hadn’t felt so happy and at ease as I did right now. But our peace was about to be shattered to smithereens.

“Enzo Fuentes. What a happy surprise,” came a very fucking familiar voice.

I tensed instantly, an icy shiver flying up my spine. Enzo seemed to have sensed it, and his eyes came to mine, sparkling with nothing but warmth and love.

“Snow,” he drawled, but the tone was as cold as ice.

He turned us around, easing me behind him, as though protecting me from my cheating shit of an Ex.

“Enzo, it must be fate. I’ve been trying to contact you. I asked my ditzy Ex to ask you, but she always has her head in a book. And of course, you won’t mingle with the likes of her, right?” Ethan stated.

I wanted to cry at the blatant cruelty in his words. I wished for a black hole to open up and swallow me. I hated him so much, and he was still able to make me feel like complete, utter crap. He’d done it that night I’d caught him, blaming me for his… indiscretion.

“Ditzy?” Enzo said.

“Oh yes, Sorcha was an airhead. Pretty enough, but you know how to pick sexy women, right?” and he laughed.

“Oh really?”

I was eased from behind him, his arm coming around my waist. The way he was looking at me? He washed all the tension from my body. He leaned down, kissing my mouth tenderly.

“So, you know Sorcha? My girlfriend?” Enzo asked.

CHAPTER 25

Sorcha

Ethan Snow suddenly looked about ready to implode with rage, but, he recovered like a fucking pro. His words, however, were evil to the core.

“I didn’t think someone like Sorcha was your type, Enzo?” he purred.

“And why not?” Enzo asked, pressing me closer.

My Ex’s eyes narrowed a little, then he chuckled. It was nasty. Cold, and I glared at him. When I first met Ethan, he wasn’t like this. He’d slowly become more vicious, and selfish, as our relationship progressed. Seems he’d gotten even worse as he aged.

“Oh, I’m sorry Barnes. Didn’t know you were being used as publicity,” Ethan purred.

“What?” I gasped, and Enzo tensed, his hand squeezing mine tightly.

“Oh, it’s great to show that you like the more… dowdy girl. Gives your fans hope, right? Blonde’s were always your favourite, right Enzo? And I’m guessing you’re a little tired after last night,” then Ethan stopped talking.

“Tired?” my writer questioned.

“Heard you had a booty call last night. Chardonnay was in the vicinity. I know you’ve enjoyed her before. I bet she tired you right out,” Ethan stated, chuckling, but his eyes were filled with nothing but cruelty, all aimed in my direction.

I tugged on Enzo’s hand, making him look down at me. I gazed up, and he saw the pain and sadness in my eyes, causing him to raise an annoyed brow. He’d gotten the message, and he moved like lightning. He crushed me into him, kissing me possessively.

“We had a rude, vile creature knock on the door of my private address, Snow. And I wonder just how she got there?” Enzo drawled, his eyes never leaving my face.

“I have no idea how,” Ethan exclaimed, and his cocky persona suddenly cracked.

“She was extremely rude to my future wife, Ethan, and I do not appreciate unwanted visitors. If you wish to speak to me? Get in touch with my agent. Not Sorcha.”

Ethan stared at me now, eyes filled with rage and… jealousy? Enzo didn’t flinch, and he tilted my face to his, kissing me again, gently.

“That’s surprising, Enzo. I didn’t expect you to go for someone like… Sorcha. I’ll contact your agent to set up a meeting. Again,” he purred.

“And if I find out that you leaked my address, Snow? I’ll break more than your fucking nose. Are we clear?”

“Loud and, Enzo. Little poppet,” he replied, his voice dropping to a tone that would turn the sun into ice.

“Her name is Sorcha. She stopped being your poppet the night you cheated. Proposition her again? I rip off your fucking dick,” Enzo drawled. “Adiós, Snow.”

I stared up at my sexy, gorgeous boyfriend in surprise. He was smiling tenderly at me as he spoke, fingers lightly brushing my cheek. In this moment, my heart fluttered, a huge all consuming warmth wrapping around me like an invisible Enzo blanket. He turned around, and strode away, taking me along with him, without one glance back.

Fucker… stick that up your arse, you evil fucking bastard, Ethan.

Enzo

I led Sorcha away from Ethan fucking Snow, but I wanted to punch the son of a bitch. The way my beautiful lady crumbled in front of him had my rage clawing at my skin, desperate to burst out of me, and pummel the slimy little fuck.

“Let me treat you to some lunch, cariño,” I whispered.

And I did just that. I refused to bring up the little snake, and we had a very lovely meal. Sorcha had a couple of glasses of wine, and as I was the designated driver? I had soft drinks, then coffee. Once lunch was finished, I drove her back to my cottage. But, she’d been quiet, preoccupied, and I hated it. I hated that the fucker that was Snow had upset our happiness. Upset my beautiful, funny, sexy girlfriend.

I pulled the car into the garage, and she gathered our various bags, trying to open the door. The hiss fell out of her, and she kicked the side of it in frustration.

“Why can’t you get a normal bloody car door?” she fired at me.

I didn’t say a word, and quickly jumped out. I walked around to the passenger side, and opened the door for her. I crowded her as she clambered out, then I yanked her into my arms, crushing her into my body.

“Talk, cariño,” I whispered.

She didn’t say anything, and literally buried herself into my body. I felt the tension in her as her arms wrapped around me, and I had to take a couple of steadying breaths. Inside, I wanted to hunt that little fucker down, but Sorcha was way more precious to me.

“Por favor, cariño,” I said, gently.

“He treated me like something he’d stepped in by the end of our relationship,” she finally said, almost in a whisper.

“And?”

“He was looking at me as though I were nothing, Enzo,” and her voice cracked. “Like he did in the last couple of weeks of our relationship.”

A very angry, frustrated groan came out of me, and I scooped my beautiful little bookworm from the floor, bags and all. I locked the car, closing the garage door.

I stalked into the cottage as Sorcha cried quietly into my chest. The anger was coursing through me like a fucking tsunami. No-one upset my woman and got away with it.

“I’m going to talk, cariño, and you are going to hear every damned word, alright?”

She lifted her tear stained face to mine, and my heart cracked at the sight. She simply nodded, then dropped her head back onto my chest, wiping her eyes. I sat her on the sofa, went to my fully stocked drinks cabinet, and poured us each a glass of whiskey. I sat beside her, handing her a glass, gesturing for her to take a sip.

“I need you to hear every word,” I started, but her gaze remained on the drink in her hands.

I put down my glass, and I eased hers from her hands too. I tilted her face up to mine, but her eyes were downcast.

“Look at me, cariño,” I asked, as gently as I could. “Give me those beautiful eyes.”

It took a few seconds, then she finally did as I asked. I saw the sadness swirling inside them, and I needed to get fucking rid of it.

“Sorcha Barnes, you are stunningly beautiful. I love everything about you. These enticing eyes, sexy mouth, and don’t get me started on your perfect curves. You are kind, funny, and hide a feisty side that I fucking adore. Never, and I mean never, let that fucking slimy son of a bitch make you feel any less.”

She stared up into my very soul, and my heart fluttered inside my chest. She had no idea just how fucking much I loved her.

“I love you like oxygen, cariño.”

Sorcha blinked, and her eyes lightened a little. “Really?” she asked.

“Si, cariño. You’re my soulmate, Sorcha.”

I pulled her into my arms, lips slamming onto hers, and she melted instantly. I needed her to know how amazing she was, so I yanked her onto my lap, causing a very sexy moan to come out of her.

“Thank you,” she said, all breathy and flushed.

“For?”

“Saying that.”

“It’s the fucking truth, cariño.”

She suddenly smiled, and holy hell, she was so damned beautiful. I grinned too, then winked at her

“I need to write for a while. Sit with me?” I asked.

“Sure. I’ll read, as I’ve got a couple of proofs to get through too.”

I pulled her in for another swift kiss, then popped her sexy butt back onto the sofa. Sorcha picked up her drink, then stood up, searching for her ridiculously huge handbag. I busied myself, getting ready to dive back into editing, but my phone began to sing in my pocket. I retrieved it, and it was David.

“Hola, David,” I said.

“Hello, Enzo. I hope you are treating my sister well?”

“Of course I am,” I replied.

“Is Sorcha nearby?”

“She’s right here,” and my little bookworm waltzed over, pecked my cheek, then called into the phone.

“Hello, big brother.”

I watched her with lust filled eyes, settling down beside me, but her brother’s voice dragged my mind out of the gutter.

“Okay, tell my little Barnes that there are two new proofs in her inbox, but…” and I groaned.

“I hate that word,” I grumbled.

“You are going to have to return sooner than planned.”

I gazed over at the woman who had taken my heart, and raked a disappointed hand over my face.

“And why is that?”

“They’ve had to move the writers convention. There’s been a flood at the usual premises, but the only date available is in four days instead of two weeks time.”

“Fine,” I muttered.

“You’ll need a plus one,” he drawled, and I knew what he was doing.

“I already have one. Sorcha will be my plus one from now on, David.”

Sorcha’s big brother had the cheek to fall into laughter, and she frowned. Leaning into the handset, she hissed at him.

“You’re a cheeky shit.”

“She’s not wrong, David,” I stated.

As I was leaning forward onto my thighs, Sorcha slotted herself behind me, wrapped her arms around my waist, and it felt so damned fine. I dropped my gaze, and she was looking back up at me, her chin resting on my shoulder, in such a tender way that it sucked all the damned air from my lungs. I had to suck in a sharp breath before speaking.

“Okay, you need to be back here as soon as possible.”

“Sure. We’ll set off tomorrow. And Sorcha will be staying at my place,” I stated.

“Fine. See you both very soon,” and David disappeared.

I hung up the phone, then turned to find my little bookworm, now standing with her arms crossed over her chest, glaring at me. Her hand shot out, and I was slapped once again.

“And what was that for?” I asked.

“Your place?” she fired at me. “You’re a presumptuous shit.”

“You’re my girlfriend, Sorcha,” I replied.

“I have my own bloody house, you know?” she snapped, but I saw the excitement dancing behind those brown eyes. “Where did you think I lived? The office?”

I arched a brow, smirking, and I jumped to my feet. I pulled her into my arms, and she didn’t resist, but a scoff fell from her as I took her face in my hands. I kissed her, then fixed my eyes on hers.

“And who was taking care of your place while you were hiding?”

Her eyes narrowed, and I prepared myself for another slap, but it didn’t materialise… thankfully. Sorcha suddenly sighed, and dropped her forehead onto my chest, snaking one arm around my waist.

“Touche,” she replied. “Good job I didn’t have a cat, right? And where am I going with you?”

I kissed her lips gently, then grinned. “The writers convention. This time, however, cariño, you are coming as my girlfriend, mi amor.”

She giggled, lightly shoving my shoulder. The last time we’d been at the convention? I’d had my little bookworm in my bed for the first time, and I became addicted to her. Dreamed about her, and jerked off spectacularly to the memory of her.

“Okay. And I promise that I’ll stay put this time,” she purred.

I arched a surprised brow at her honest words, but she pressed herself against me, head resting on my chest again, and her arms wrapped around my waist a little tighter.

“Good to know, cariño, as I was considering taking handcuffs,” I drawled.

“Cheeky fucker,” she retorted, but I heard her small snigger.

I took her hand, leading her back to the sofa, and I gestured for her to get comfortable. We settled down, and I started to pick up where I left off, Sorcha settled beside me, reading. This felt so damned good, but I got stuck in, and we both relaxed into a very comfortable, natural rhythm.

CHAPTER26

Sorcha

Enzo eventually moved to the floor, laptop on the coffee table, legs stretched out under it. It was a strangely comfortable feeling, and that caused a warmth to blossom deep down inside me. He had swiftly smashed every wall I had unconsciously built around my heart, and I was falling for my writer.

Truly falling deeply in love with him.

“Seems you two are pretty comfortable in each other’s company.”

I startled on the sofa as Enzo cursed, banging his knees on the underside of the table. “Fucking hell, Ray,” he exclaimed. “Ever heard of knocking?”

“I did,” she replied, laughing cheekily. “No-one answered.”

Enzo groaned, running a hand over his face, then touched my thigh, giving me a tender smile. He climbed to his feet and looked at his best friend.

“Guess I need to change the batteries in my doorbell.”

“Abbi’s bringing in the booze.”

“Fine. I’ll go and help her,” Enzo replied.

“Can I ask?” Raya questioned.

“Ask what?” said Enzo.

“As you two look like an old married couple, have you fucked each other yet?” she purred.

I felt the blush instantly, and I dropped my head, staring down at my book, and Enzo let out an annoyed sigh.

“Watch it, Ray,” he retorted.

“Fucking hell, grumpy shit. But, you two make the cutest couple,” she replied.

Enzo leaned down, kissing me swiftly, then he winked. “I’ll go help Abbi. You,” and he looked at Raya. “Behave.”

She smiled sweetly at him, and she got a light shoulder nudge as Enzo waltzed from the living room. My nerves were firing like crazy as I was left with Enzo’s best friend.

Alone.

Raya leant against the door for a couple of seconds, then she wandered over to the sofa. I pulled up my knees allowing her to sit down, and she tapped the paperback, which was sitting on the coffee table.

“Enzo give you that?” she asked, swiping it up, and her eyes widened a little at how far I’d gotten.

“I’ve never proofread Enzo’s books. So, he gave me his first one,” I replied.

“And what’s the verdict?” she questioned.

I shuffled back, and sat up a little further, then glanced over at the door. “Don’t tell him, but I love it,” I whispered.

“My lips are sealed,” Raya whispered back, with a very cheeky grin. “Has he told you about his ex?” she asked.

I nodded, and I caught the hint of wariness in her blue eyes. I sighed, then crossed my legs as Raya watched me intently.

“I had my heart broken too,” I said. “I locked myself away, turning to books for solace. Unhealthy, but my book collection is… epic. I’ve always loved to read, and I wanted to work with books. That’s why my brother hired me as a proofreader.”

“Can I ask who broke your heart?” she asked.

“Ethan Snow,” I replied.

“And I’m betting that you thought Enzo was like him?”

“I guess I did at first. But, he’s one million percent the furthest from that cheating bastard,” I answered.

Raya turned to face me, and her expression softened. She took one of my hands and smiled. “Do you want to know what I think?”

“And that makes me nervous, but okay,” I said, smiling back.

She laughed, and it was a light, warm sound, relaxing me. “I think you two will be really good for each other. The fact that you were sitting here, you reading, Enzo editing. Not a hint of any tension. That says bloody volumes, lady.”

I knew I was blushing as she spoke, but Raya patted my knee with a wink, and a cheeky smile. “Thank you,” I said.

“Ah, no need. But, you two really haven’t fucked yet?” she asked.

“Not yet,” I said with a smirk.

She whistled, and fell into laughter, and I saw the flash of surprise in her eyes. “Bloody hell. That’s a fucking record for him. He really must,” but Raya didn’t get to finish her sentence.

Enzo reappeared, carrying a large cardboard box, and he was followed by a smaller woman. Her hair was the colour of a moonless night, eyes a unique dark emerald green, and the most beautiful dark chocolate complexion.

She was striking in every way, and that all too familiar feeling of being the supporting role, washed over me. Raya dived to her feet, and headed right for the petite beauty.

“Abbi, honey. It’s true. Enzo’s in lurve,” she announced, kissing her.

Those dark green eyes found my brown ones, and I shrunk into myself in a flash, but Enzo seemed to notice. His own gaze locked onto mine, and he started towards me. Abbi, however, got to me first, and I was yanked to my feet. She engulfed me in two surprisingly powerful arms, and the strong scent of jasmine wafted into my nose.

Now, I didn’t tend to wear strong perfume, as I had a very sensitive nose. I only ever sprayed a little onto my clothes, as it usually caused me to sneeze.

Abbi seemed to sense the change in my body, and she let me go just in time, and not one, but four sneezes exploded from me. Enzo was in front of me in a flash, a box of tissues in his hand.

“Ab’s, you’re wearing too much of the damned stuff,” he fired at her. “Sorcha’s extra sensitive to strong scents.”

I blew my nose, then smiled at the two women. But, I was surprised to find out that Enzo knew about my sensitivity to perfumes. He simply winked at me as Abbi giggled, and touched my shoulder.

“I’m sorry, honey. I sprayed on fresh before we got here,” she exclaimed.

“It’s okay. Just have an extra sensitive nose,” I replied.

“You are so beautiful, Sorcha Barnes,” Abbi said, raking her eyes over my face. “Let’s get us all some drinks,” and she slapped my arm, then marched back to her wife.

She grabbed Raya’s hand, dragging her from the room. Enzo chuckled as he turned to me, pulling me into his embrace. He kissed my lips, stroked my cheek with his finger, then fixed his eyes on me.

“I saw your face change, cariño,” he whispered.

“They’re so bloody beautiful,” I muttered.

He rolled his eyes, pressing me close. “You are the most beautiful woman in my eyes, cariño. And you are all mine. So, no more of that low self esteem bullshit. Now, are you ready for Abbi?” he asked.

“Get in here, bitches,” came said stunning woman’s voice from the other room.

“I’m guessing I’m about to find out,” I replied, and I was led into the kitchen, and two of the most beautiful women I’d ever had the pleasure to meet.

Raya and Abbi cooked one hell of a delicious meal. Homemade pasta, garlic bread, a huge bowl of salad… and a shit ton of red wine. They asked me about my job, and what it was like in Italy, making Enzo cringe a little where he sat. They also asked me how it felt to have Enzo fly all the way to Italy to rescue me, and that was my turn to groan, dropping my head onto the table, causing Enzo to chuckle beside me.

“You got your own knight in a white, shiny jet,” purred Abbi.

“Knock it off, Abs,” Enzo drawled, throwing a napkin at her.

“Never. Sorcha has her own knight. We will never let this go,” Abbi exclaimed.

“Nope. Enzo and Sorcha, kissing in a tree… no, an Italian tree,” Raya started, then fell into laughter.

Abbi snorted into laughter too, then stood up. “Let’s go into the living room. I need some music, Rayray.”

“Perfect, honey,” Raya yelped, jumping to her feet. “Come on, you sexy lovebirds.”

Abbi stopped by my side, and she leaned in and pecked my cheek. “You’re perfect for our bestie. Welcome to the crazy gang,” and she grabbed a hold of my hand, and dragged me into the next room.

I was forced to dance to Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, ABBA, and rather a lot of nineties dance music. I had never laughed, and had so much fun in fucking years. I’d also never seen Enzo so relaxed either, but our eyes met during one of my favourite songs, and the heat in his gaze caused a volcano to erupt deep down inside me, and a sudden craving for my writer.

“I think I’m going to sit down, Raya,” I shouted over the loud music.

The dirty laugh that came out of her and her wife made me giggle too, but I dropped down next to Enzo, and he wrapped his arm around my shoulders. He leaned close, and his lips grazed the lobe of my ear.

“I want you, cariño, so fucking badly,” he growled.

And it was so bloody hot that I instantly turned into a mushy mess, almost coming where I sat. Because I needed him too, so I leaned in, my lips bruising the hot skin of his neck.

“You’ll be happy to know, Fuentes, that I want you too,” I whispered into his ear.

Enzo suddenly shot to his feet, tugging me with him. “We’re going to bed, Ray. Turn that down, and don’t throw up on my floor or furniture,” he announced.

Abbi and Raya shared a look, then snorted into drunken laughter. “You can trust us, Effie,” Raya replied with a slur. “Nighty night.”

I frowned a little in confusion at the term ‘Effie’, but waved over my shoulder as I was literally dragged from the room.

“Night,” I called.

“Night night, bookworm,” yelled Raya.

“Nighty night night,” called Abbi.

I had to laugh, then I smacked Enzo on the chest, as I was being dragged behind him, and he had much longer legs than myself.

“Slow down, Enzo,” I exclaimed. “I’ve got significantly shorter legs than you.”

He stopped suddenly, and turned. The way he was looking at me made me blush, body going bloody feral for him.

“Then allow me, my sexy little bookworm,” he drawled.

I was swiftly scooped from the floor, and he climbed the stairs in record speed. The bedroom door was kicked open, and I was placed back onto my feet. He walked over to the chest of drawers, and my brows shot up in surprise as he retrieved a bottle of whiskey, and two glasses. I watched as he poured us each a rather large measure. Then he strolled over to me. Every inch of my body was craving his hands on me, and I saw the desire behind Enzo’s dark eyes.

“You okay, cariño?” he asked, gaze dropping to my lips.

“Yes, I’m fine,” I replied.

Huge, big giant lie, lady… Nervous as fuck.

“Here,” he said, and I took the glass from him.

Our eyes were on each other as we each took a large sip of the amber liquid. It heated my throat as I swallowed, anticipation growing with every second that ticked by.

“Get ready for bed, cariño. I’ll be right back. I forgot my phone, and those two fucking devils can’t be trusted with it,” and he winked.

Enzo’s arm snaked around my waist, and he pulled me in for a swift, yet delicious kiss. His hand skimmed my butt, and he slapped it, causing my skin to heat with the sting.

“Shit, Enzo,” I yelped, my cheeks burning.

“You said you wanted me, Sorcha. So you, my little sexy bookworm, are going to get all of me,” he growled into my ear.

Shit, shit, shit… That sound was like bloody catnip for humans.

Enzo’s hands were on my hips, roaming up my spine, and he pecked my lips with a devilish wink. Then he released me, and disappeared downstairs. It was at least five seconds before I got my feet moving. I shot into the bathroom, throwing off my clothes. I peed, then checked my face, rinsed my mouth, then shot back into the bedroom. I swiftly shed my underwear, but slipped my nightshirt over my head, yanking out the tie holding my hair in a ponytail.

I dived under the covers, and threw back the whiskey, coughing as I swallowed it. Then Enzo reappeared, both of our phones in his hand. I had to smile as he put mine onto the bedside table, then waltzed around to his side of the bed. I couldn’t take my eyes from him as he started to undress, slowly revealing his muscular body, inch by inch.

Holy shit, he was so fucking hot.

CHAPTER 27

Sorcha

He joined me under the sheets, wearing only a pair of boxers. I had also noticed the rather large bulge. Enzo was turned on, and that caused a chain reaction in my own body. He rolled onto his side, eyes gazing at me, and his hand came to rest on my waist.

“Are you alright, cariño?” he asked.

I dropped my gaze for a moment, then dared to look back up at the sexiest man I’d ever had the pleasure to know.

“I had a great time tonight,” I said quietly.

“So did I, cariño.”

I touched his cheek with my hand, pulling him closer, then our lips met. It was gentle at first, then his tongue slipped into my mouth, and he slowly eased me onto my back. My hands moved around to his ass, roaming upwards, the kiss deepening.

“Fuck,” he growled into my hair.

“I need you, Enzo Fuentes,” I whispered. “Right bloody now. I’m done waiting.”

He touched his forehead to my own, and sighed with his eyes closed for a moment. Then he opened them, staring into mine.

“Music to my ears, cariño,” he whispered.

He suddenly yanked me to sitting, his hands relieving me of my nightshirt. I had to smirk, as I was completely naked underneath. Enzo’s eyes dilated, and that pussy fluttering growl fell from my writer.

“You bad girl,” he drawled, easing me backwards until I hit the mattress.

His mouth descended on mine, and I was ravished greedily. My hands were roaming the defined, muscular planes of Enzo’s back, then I moaned into his lips when I felt his own hand moving up over my thigh, hip, then higher until he reached my breast, squeezing it sensually. It felt like heaven having his hands on my body again.

He trailed kisses down my neck, across my collar bone, then lower, taking my hardened nipple into his mouth, swirling his tongue around it before nipping with his teeth.

“Shit,” I gasped, pleasure flying through me at the sensation.

“Fuck, Sorcha. I’ve missed you,” he breathed, his hand moving lower.

I parted my thighs willingly, and I let out a happy squeal as his finger found my pussy. He groaned, eyes lifting to mine.

“So fucking wet, cariño. All for me?” he asked.

“All for you, Enzo,” I gasped.

“Do you want me to finger fuck you first, my sexy little bookworm?”

“Yes, god, don’t tease me,” I croaked.

“As you wish, cariño,” and he gazed down at me, as his finger slipped inside.

“Yes, oh fuck, Enzo,” I moaned.

He simply watched me, fingers pumping at a steady pace. I started to shake, writhe, and moans and sighs fell out of me, hands gripping his shoulders tightly, riding his hand. Every inch of me was on fire, the divine sensations engulfing me, taking my breath away.

“God, cariño. You look so beautiful. Come for me,” he purred, and his fingers suddenly hit that sweet spot inside me, making me arch off the mattress.

My hands flew to his hair, and the noises coming out of me were dirty, filthy, and I didn’t give one bloody fuck.

Enzo

Sorcha was trembling now, as I hooked my fingers inside her divine pussy, and she looked absolutely stunning.

“Enzo, I want you… inside me. Please,” she begged, hands gripping my shoulders.

“Come for me, cariño, then I’ll give you what you want,” I whispered, kissing her neck.

My thumb rubbed her clit gently, fingers moving at a steady pace, and she moaned louder, gasps falling from her parted lips.

“Enzo, yes, I’m going to… Fuck, yes,” she cried, then my little lady fell over the edge.

And holy hell, she looked so damned beautiful.

“You are so stunning,” I whispered, continuing to tease her clit.

Little did my bookworm know? I was going to give her way more than one orgasm at a time. I’d done it many times in the past, so I didn’t stop my fingers, and I pinned her legs open, kissing along her inner thigh, then covered her with my mouth.

“Holy fuck,” she yelped, hips bucking at the contact. “Yes, yes, jesus fucking christ, yes.”

It took only a few more moments, then she screamed my name, coming all over my tongue. I groaned happily, not halting, tasting her, until she finally melted into the bed, a hot, satisfied, relaxed girlfriend. Her eyes opened, and focused on my face. She was flushed, smiling, and her hands were in my hair. I couldn’t quite believe that I had Sorcha in my arms, naked, and I kissed her skin, all over. My cock was painfully hard, so I had to slip out of my boxers.

“I have to be inside you, cariño.”

“Please, Enzo,” she breathed. “Fuck me.”

I lifted my head, halting my trail of kisses over her stomach. Sorcha was gazing at me, and her tongue darted out, licking her lips so fucking sexily.

“If I do? Then I’m going to watch you ride me, cariño.”

I didn’t give her a chance to think about what I’d said, and I flipped us over, making Sorcha yelp, then giggle.

“Shit, Enzo,” she exclaimed.

“Sit down, cariño,” I ordered, and her eyes dropped to my cock, standing to attention. “Yes, I’m desperate to fill you.”

She shuffled into position, lining her divine pussy with the tip of my cock, then she grinned. I let out a frustrated growl, grabbing her hips tightly.

“Don’t tease me, cariño,” and I yanked her down, ramming my shaft inside her until she was seated on my lap.

“Holy fuck,” she gasped, and she smacked my shoulder. “Jesus, I forgot how big you are.”

I had to chuckle, smugness oozing from me, and I held her still, as I wanted to cherish this moment. I’d dreamt of being inside my woman for months, and I didn’t want to unload like a fucking amateur.

“Fuck, I’ve missed this like air, cariño,” I gasped, allowing her to stretch around me. “Give me control.”

She pressed her soft skin against me, circling her hips, rocking lazily back and forth, as she kissed my neck, and I was in fucking heaven.

“Do it, Fuentes. Give me everything,” she purred into my ear.

“Fuck, cariño. Then you’d better hold on tight to me,” I replied, kissing her shoulder.

She giggled into the crook of my neck, hands wrapping around me, then I pushed her backwards. I ran my nose along her own neck, then yanked her forward.

“Oh god yes, Enzo,” she moaned.

And that was music to my ears. I fucked my sexy, beautiful little bookworm hard and fast. Our grunts, moans, and sighs floated around us. Sorcha’s hands were gripping my shoulders, fingers digging into my skin. Her body flush against mine? Fucking heaven. I suddenly realised that I was bare, and I needed to know if Sorcha was safe.

“cariño,” I croaked. “I’m so fucking close. I need to know,” then she lifted her head, those stunning dark brown eyes gazing at me.

“I’m on the injection, Enzo,” and she kissed me.

“Then I can?”

“Fill me up, Fuentes,” she purred.

Holy fucking shit… Yes.

I ground her against me for a moment, taking a deep breath, then I flipped us over, pulling out.

“Shit, Enzo. what the fuck?” she yelped in annoyance.

“Hands and knees, cariño,” I ordered.

Sorcha did as she was told in a flash, wiggling her sexy ass at me. I grinned as I positioned myself behind her, running the length of my cock through her wetness. A dirty moan came from my woman, and she glanced behind me.

“Please, Enzo,” she begged. “I need you inside me.”

“As you wish, my sexy little lady,” I replied with a wink.

I took a hold of her hips, then in one swift motion, I slammed back inside her, and fucked her hungrily, grunts and moans falling from me as I chased my climax. I leaned further forward, and kissed her shoulder, then I reached around, finding her clit, my hips crashing into her gorgeous ass with brutal force.

“Oh fuck,” she cried. “Yes, god, Enzo, I’m going… Yes,” she cried out, and her pussy clamped down on my cock.

“Dear fucking lord,” I growled, and I exploded.

I ground myself against her sexy ass, as I unloaded inside my woman. My fucking Sorcha. She was trembling, collapsing onto her stomach as her arms gave out. I pinned her with my own body, not wanting to pull out of her, and I kissed along the back of her neck.

“Are you okay, mi amor?” I whispered.

“Hell fucking yes,” she exclaimed, making me burst into happy, satisfied laughter.

“Ti amo, Sorcha,” I whispered into her ear. “I don’t want to spend one more second of my life without you in it, cariño. You hear me?”

She shuffled beneath me, and I reluctantly pulled out of her. I rolled onto my side, and I eased her into my body, capturing her lips in a possessive kiss.

“And I have to say this,” she said, running her fingers over my stomach and chest. “Any of those airheads come anywhere near you again? I’ll smack them so damned hard their implants will explode.”

I snorted into laughter, crushing her as close as I could get her, and the joy that erupted in my heart fucking floored me.

“Fuck, when you say things like that? Do you know what you do to me,” I groaned.

“Tell me,” she replied, kissing my neck.

I pulled her higher, bringing her face to mine. “You make my heart race, body to burn for you, and when you’re near me, with me? I finally feel alive, Sorcha Barnes. Know that I’ll never fucking hurt you. I’ll protect you, and smack any son of a bitch that tries to hurt you. You’re mine, cariño. Forever.”

Sorcha’s eyes had dilated at my words, and it made my cock get harder again. In one swift motion, I flipped her onto her back, and I pinned her, kissing her ravenously.

“You know, my little bookworm,” I growled. “We’re not going to get much sleep tonight.”

“Oh really?” she purred, and her voice had dropped to a sexy, sultry tone.

“Really,” I replied. “So, you’d better hold on fucking tight, cariño.”

In one swift move, I thrust my cock back into her, making her arch off the bed. She let out the most sinful moan, hands back in my hair.

“Holy fuck, Fuentes,” she yelped.

“Sí, mi amor?” I growled.

“Huge bloody cock, Fuentes. Jesus.”

I snorted into a chuckle, grinding myself against her. “You can take all of me, cariño. Now, I wasn’t joking. Hold on fucking tight,” and I pecked her lips.

Then I fucked the only woman that owned my entire heart and soul, as though my life depended on it.

All fucking night long.

CHAPTER 28

Enzo

Iawoke to the most delicious feeling in the fucking world. Sorcha Barnes, naked as the day she’d been born, huddled up next to me. Her head was resting in the crook of my arm, her own arm draped over my chest. One of her sexy legs was laid over mine, and she was sleeping peacefully, hair all messy, and I smirked happily, knowing that this time? I had been the cause.

My heart was finally full, and I had to roam my hands over her curves. Sorcha was all natural, wide hips with a soft stomach. She had stretch marks on her thighs, and I’d licked along all of them last night, making her giggle, and tremble in my arms.

At first, she’d slapped me away from them, but I pinned her hands, and did it anyway. I loved every inch of her body, gave her all of my attention, and Sorcha had finally relaxed, realising that she had nothing to worry about.

The quiet knock made me turn, and the door opened. Raya’s hand waved, then a tray appeared. She slid it onto the small table beside the door, then disappeared. It had a cafetiere filled with enticing coffee, two cups, sugar bowl, and a milk jug that I’d forgotten I even owned. I didn’t want to move, but my bladder was ready to burst, so I eased my little bookworm from my arms, then waltzed into the bathroom.

After relieving myself, washing my hands, and rinsing my tired face, I quickly grabbed the tray, then joined my sexy lady sleeping in my bed. I noticed the folded note, so I swiped it up as I eased Sorcha back into my arms. Raya’s handwriting stared up at me, and I ruffled my messy bed hair, smiling at the words on the paper.

‘We’re so fucking happy for you, Enzo. We never heard a thing as we got a little naughty too, then passed out around two this morning. Don’t worry about the mess. All tidied away. Don’t fuck this up, Effie, and bask in the afterglow of all the great fucking. R & A.’

I smiled as happy butterflies ran riot inside my gut. I wouldn’t ruin this. Sorcha was my forever, so I laid back, gently stroking down her spine, enjoying finally waking up naked with her. She stirred in my arms, and her voice floated into my ears.

“Mmm,” and I raked my fingers through her messy hair.

“Morning, cariño.”

She buried her face into my chest, and I chuckled. “Morning, Fuentes,” she answered.

“Why are you hiding?”

“What time is it?”

I glanced at the clock on my bedside table, and I winced. It was only just gone eight in the morning. We’d had approximately four hours of sleep.

“Just after eight. Show me your beautiful face, cariño.”

“Bloody hell, I’m knackered,” she grumbled. “Probably look like shit.”

I gently nudged her face with my shoulder, making her lift her head. Those dark brown pools lifted, and her gaze made my heart beat faster.

“There’s my sexy little lady,” I whispered.

“Hey you,” she said, shuffling up my body.

“Kiss me,” I ordered.

She let out the most delicious little giggle, but her tongue darted out, licking her lips. “I’ve got morning breath,” she replied.

“And I don’t fucking care. Just kiss me,” and I pulled her close, capturing her lips, and kissing her lovingly.

I sat up, pulling her onto my lap, making her straddle me. I ran my fingers through her dark hair, and smiled at my beautiful bookworm.

“We had a delivery,” I said.

“Delivery?”

“Sí, mi amor.”

I gestured to the tray, and her eyes found the coffee and cups. “Coffee? Did you go and get us caffeine bloody naked?”

“No, you little minx. Raya slipped it in by the door, along with this,” and I handed her the note.

As she read, I left soft kisses over her shoulder, neck, and back down, massaging her sexy ass. A very delectable snort fell from her, and Sorcha giggled.

“Afterglow?” she questioned. “Not sure about that, as I’m bloody exhausted.”

I smacked her ass cheek again, kissing every inch of bare skin that I could, causing her to laugh and squirm where she sat. The way her hips moved? It got me hard, instantly.

“You want some coffee, my exhausted little bookworm?” I asked.

“I’d love some,” she replied. “Aren’t you tired too?”

“It was worth it, cariño.”

The cheeky twinkle appeared in her brown eyes, and I arched an amused brow as she smirked.

“It was… Okay,” she purred.

I growled as I flipped her onto her back, and I crawled over the top of her, kissing her soft skin. “You’re a very bad girl, Sorcha Barnes. And I think I might have to punish you for teasing me,” I replied.

Her eyes focused on my own, then her hands moved over my hips, spine, and she smiled so fucking sweetly.

“A bad girl?”

“Yes, you wicked little minx. You came so damned hard for me, more than once,” I replied.

Sorcha giggled, and her hands moved into my hair, as she smiled again. “You caught me, handsome. You satisfied your woman. But…” and she paused.

“But?” I questioned.

“Maybe you should double check, because your dick is digging into me.”

Sorcha’s hand was suddenly on my erect cock, and she stroked confidently, causing me to hiss at the divine feeling.

“Holy fuck,” I groaned, then kissed the tip of her nose. “Bad, bad girl,” I growled.

In one swift motion, I had her hands pinned above her head, mouth locked onto hers, then I teased her clit with the tip of my dick, rubbing it against her, making her moan out loud.

“Oh god,” she yelped. “Yes.”

“I fucking love you, my sexy little bookworm,” I whispered.

I slammed inside her, shunting her up the bed, and fucked my woman hard and fast until she came undone all over again.

After another round of unbridled, steamy fucking, I crushed my flushed and breathless lady into my sweat covered body.

“Satisfied now?” I asked.

“Fucking hell, Fuentes. Yes, but I’m exhausted.”

I chuckled as I reached down for my t-shirt. I turned, and pulled her up to sitting, her sexy breasts so damned inviting. I lifted her arms and slipped my shirt over her head.

“Your t-shirt?” she asked.

“Yes, mi amor.”

She gave me her stunning smile, and I couldn’t help my own gracing my lips. I kissed her gently, hands running through her messy hair, then I whispered into her ear.

“I love you, Sorcha.”

“I’m falling too, Enzo,” she replied, and all the air from my lungs dissipated into the atmosphere, heart thundering at a million miles a second.

“Falling?” I croaked.

“Yes. Falling. And I’m starving,” and she kissed me quickly, then jumped from the bed, disappearing into the bathroom.

I didn’t move for what felt like an eternity, then I scrambled from the bed, scooping up my boxers. I stepped into them and ruffled my hair, staring at the closed bathroom door.

Sorcha was falling for me?

Holy fucking shit.

And those words wrapped themselves around my heart in a delicious Sorcha hug. The woman I’d fallen so fucking hard for? She was falling too, and I couldn’t help the silly love sick grin that graced my lips.

Sorcha

My muscles were deliciously sore, and I was officially bloody knackered. Enzo’s t-shirt was huge on me, but the heavenly scent of him was wafting into my nose, floating into my heart, and setting up camp. I wasn’t joking when I said that I was falling for him. It was very true, and the way his eyes had lit up when I told him? It caused a whole new set of emotions to fly through me.

“Sit, cariño. Let me make you breakfast.”

“Can I make the coffee?” I asked.

“Sure thing,” he replied.

As I started to prepare the drinks, I had to glance at Enzo’s profile. That straight nose, enticing, talented lips, then my eyes wandered to his pert ass, defined muscles of his chest and back. Fucking hell, he was stunning, and he was in love with me.

“You’re staring, cariño.”

“I like looking at you,” I replied, without engaging my brain.

He chuckled, then turned to gaze back at me. “And I enjoy you looking at me, cariño” and he winked with a very tender smile.

“Are all dinners with Raya and Abbi so…?”

“Alcohol fuelled and loud?” he finished for me. “Yes. It’s normal. But the worst part? They never suffer with hangovers.”

I groaned as the kettle finished boiling. I filled our mugs, and finished Enzo’s with a dash of milk and a cube of sugar.

“Shit, Enzo. They can drink,” I stated, rubbing my tired eyes. “And I ache fucking everywhere. I mean, I didn’t know that elbows could ache.”

Enzo snorted into laughter, and his hand shot out, smacking my ass hard. “I will give you a well deserved massage when we get back,” he said, kissing the crook of my neck.

He tilted my face up to his, then kissed me possessively, as though claiming my mouth as his own. I melted instantly, arms snaking around his waist, hands landing on his muscular back. Because it was. All of me was Enzo’s now.

His face nuzzled the sensitive skin below my ear, and I simply sighed happily as I was held by my writer.

“I never thought that I would fall in love again, cariño,” he whispered. “Then I met you.”

I lifted my face, gazing up at this sexy, older guy. Enzo Fuentes was so bloody handsome, and the way he was looking down at me? It caused a sudden possessive fire to rage inside me, and my heart flipped, fluttering like crazy.

“Neither did I, Enzo,” I admitted.

“You said you were falling, cariño?” he questioned.

I lowered my eyes, heart racing like a speeding train. “I did, so don’t get big headed on me, Fuentes,” I said quietly.

“Oh really?” he growled, his voice dropping to that knee trembling tone.

I slapped his chest with a snort, making him chuckle like a devil. “Bloody hell, Enzo. Big head,” I groaned.

“I can’t help it, my sexy little lady. I’m just real happy that you’re finally here with me,” he replied. “And you’re falling for me,” he teased.

I groaned as I tried to remove myself from his arms, but Enzo bloody Fuentes laughed, crushing me closer.

“Now, let’s eat, then I’m taking you upstairs and showering with you,” he replied, and my body went into a lust-fuelled tail spin. “Stay at my place tonight?” and he kissed down my neck, hands running through my hair.

I answered without thinking, causing my cheeks to blush instantly. “Stay at my place instead?”

CHAPTER 29

Sorcha

We were now back in Enzo’s car, bags in the boot, and heading back to the city.

Back to reality.

My body ached all over, but that shower? Holy fuck. To say that Enzo Fuentes was talented? Complete fucking understatement.

“God, I ache everywhere,” I groaned, trying to get comfortable.

“It was so much fun though, cariño. And I will give you the best massage of your life when we get home,” he replied.

Enzo’s hand landed on my thigh, and he squeezed it tenderly, as that one word floated into my head.

Home.

“Home?” fell from me, then I bit down on my bottom lip, lowering my eyes to the book clutched in my hands.

“You know what I mean, right? You still want me to stay?” he asked.

“Yes, but I’d love to see where you live too,” I blurted, then cursed all over again. “Fucks sake.”

Enzo didn’t respond immediately, his hand still sitting on my thigh. I dared to glance over at his profile, and there was a very sexy smirk on those talented lips.

“Talk to me, cariño. Something’s bothering you.”

I let out an annoyed sigh, then shuffled in my seat. We had just stayed in one hell of a beautiful cottage. Huge rooms, gardens, and mine? It was a modest two bedroom ground floor flat. It also hadn’t been lived in since I vanished to Italy.

“Fine, bloody hell. Can’t hide a thing from you can I?” I grumbled.

“No, cariño. Tell me what’s on your mind.”

I put the book on top of my handbag, then I touched his hand, which remained on my thigh.

“Your cottage is stunning, Enzo. My flat is tiny compared to it. Modest, two bedrooms and no ensuite. And it’s been empty since…” but he suddenly squeezed my thigh… hard, causing me to yelp. “Hey,” I hissed.

“Don’t do that, mi amor. I don’t give a fucking shit how big or small your place is. All I care about is that you’re there. With me. And I can help if it’s a little dusty. I’m not above housework you know,” he replied.

My mouth curved up into an instant smile, and I leaned towards him, kissing his cheek. He glanced at me as I laced our fingers together, and he gave me his own heart racing grin.

“Thank you, Enzo.”

“No need, cariño.”

We settled down, and around forty five minutes later, I was directing my writer towards my little flat. It was a street filled with old, tall terraces, and most of them had been turned into flats. Mine was in a newer building further down the long street, and there was a small drive in front where Enzo parked the car.

“Ground floor?” he asked.

“Yep, that one’s mine,” I replied, eyes falling to the window of my living room. “Shit,” I gasped.

“What is…?” he began to ask, but he noticed the vase of fresh flowers on the window sill.

I was out of the car, keys in hand, striding to my front door. Someone had been inside, and I wanted to know that I hadn’t been broken into.

“Sorcha,” called Enzo.

I already had my key in the lock, and I flung open the door. Silence, but my tall black lamp was on in the corner of the room.

“Jesus, cariño,” and I turned to find a rather panicked Enzo standing in the doorway. “You should have waited for me. What if there was a burglar in here.”

I rolled my eyes, walked back to him, grabbed his hand, and dragged him inside my little flat. I took in the clean surfaces, pile of letters and junk mail neatly stacked on the coffee table.

“There wasn’t,” I replied.

“There could’ve been, cariño,” he fired.

I let out an annoyed sigh, knowing that he was irritatingly correct. Enzo nudged my shoulder, gesturing to the overcrowded bookshelf.

“There’s a note,” he said.

I found it too, then swiftly kissed Enzo’s lips before swiping it up. The handwriting was very familiar, and I unfolded it with a small smile.

‘Little Barnes. I thought I’d give you a helping hand. Brought Harrison, Dan and Moira, and we cleaned and gave it a spruce up. Moira sorted out food, flowers are from Harrison. See you bright and early on Monday, little Barnes. Love David. Xx’

I grinned, and waltzed into my kitchen. I opened the fridge, and it was fully stocked, including beers and a bottle of Prosecco. There was a sticky note attached to the bottle, and I rolled my eyes at my best friend’s words.

‘Glad to finally get you back, cheeky witch. You owe me a night out, and an indian.’

I snorted into laughter, and Enzo joined me, looking in the cupboards. I also noticed the box of red wine on the worktop, and my smile widened. Harrison had scrawled on it too.

‘I’ve missed you, you gorgeous cow. Dan says hi.’

“I’m guessing David did this?” Enzo asked.

“Yes, and Moira, Dan and Harrison too. I’m going to hug the fucking life out of them,” I gushed.

Enzo chuckled and cupped my cheek. He leaned down and kissed me lovingly, then threw me a wink.

“I’ll get our bags, mi amor. Pour us a drink?” he said.

“Okay, sexy ass,” I replied, making him arch an amused brow.

“And I shall take that, you sexy little minx,” he growled into my ear.

His hand shot out, and he smacked my own arse, and I let out a small squeak. He kissed me swiftly, and I watched him disappear from my small kitchen. I quickly poured us each a generous measure of Shiraz, then I made my way to my bedroom. The bed had fresh sheets. My haphazard books had been stacked neatly, both on the floor, and in front of my other jam-packed shelves. There was a small vase on the writing desk with three sunflowers in it. And that told me this was Harrison’s extra little touch, as he knew that they were my favourite flower.

He’d made sure that I had a single sunflower in my bouquet when he married Daniel too. He was such a sweetheart. We’d known each other since his first day at David’s publishing house. Harrison had made me a coffee, brought me a double chocolate muffin, and I gained a best friend in a flash.

“You have a very lovely place,” and I whirled around to find Enzo watching me from the doorway.

“Holy fuck, Fuentes. You almost gave me a bloody heart attack,” I fired at him.

He simply chuckled and strolled over to where I was standing. He wrapped his arms around my waist and kissed me, slowly, possessively, and I melted instantly.

“It’s not as stunning as your cottage, Enzo,” I whispered, once he released my lips.

“You’re stunning,” he replied.

I relaxed into his body, cheeks flushing at the way Enzo was gazing down at me. Those dark brown eyes made my body melt, heart to skip several beats. He was looking at me as though he wanted to strip me naked and jump me.

And hell, bloody yes please.

“I poured us a drink,” I squeaked, and he arched his brows at the sound of my voice.

“Then lead the way, my little mouse.”

I snorted into a giggle, surprising myself, as I sounded like a love sick teenage girl. “Very funny, Fuentes,” I scoffed.

“It's too cute, cariño.”

“Big head,” I hissed, slapping his chest.

“Sí, mi amor. Because I have the most beautiful girlfriend right here.”

Every part of me went giddy, and I tried to hide my smug little smirk. I took his hand, and led him back into the kitchen. We sat on the stools at the breakfast bar, and Enzo clinked his glass against mine.

“Cheers,” I said, then took a large gulp.

At that moment my phone started singing from inside my bag. Enzo winked, then pecked my lips before going to retrieve it from the sofa.

“Thanks,” I said, and he pecked my lips.

I pulled out my phone. But my eyes narrowed as I saw the name.

Ethan fucking Snow. Again.

Enzo

I saw the way her eyes narrowed, and I didn’t fucking like it. I had been basking in the glow of my little bookworm, and the fact that she was finally mine, but something was about to burst my happy bubble.

“What is it, cariño?”

“Ethan was calling me.”

The anger exploded inside me, and I tapped her phone, which was gripped tightly in her hand. “May I, cariño?” I asked.

She nodded, handing it over. There was a voicemail symbol at the top of the screen, and I gritted my teeth as I swiftly went to her voicemail screen, pressed the green icon button, then put it on speaker.

“Sorcha. It was a very lovely surprise to see you the other day. A surprise to see you with such a famous writer, though. I’ll be here for you when he drops you like a stone for the first sexy blonde… I feel a little sorry for you. You know? Being used as a publicity stunt. Now, I really do need you to set up a meeting with Enzo and David. Don’t be a selfish little lady. Thanks poppet. Byeee.”

I couldn’t breathe. The rage was clouding any rational thought trying to break through, and I closed my eyes for a moment. It wasn’t over, however. The female voice announced another message, and it was on the day we’d had to hide out at Bailey’s.

“Hello stranger. Hope you’re well after all these years. Soldiering on as a single little thing. I heard that you know Mr. Enzo Fuentes? The famous author. I’m really needing some advice, so I thought you could get me a meeting with him. If he’s not willing to mingle with the lowly staff? Can you ask David to organise? Look forward to hearing from you, little poppet. Byeee.”

I placed the phone back onto the counter, the tension clear in my body. My hands were resting on top, and Sorcha gently touched one, thumb tracing soft lines over my skin.

“Enzo? It’s the first time I’ve heard that second one. It was the day we ended up at Bailey’s house,” she said softly. “I didn’t check my phone until we got to your cottage.”

“Want to know why I punched him?” I finally said.

Sorcha jumped down from her stool, parted my thighs, then wrapped me up in her arms, and I immediately relaxed.

“Tell me.”

“The slimy son of a bitch forced himself onto my date. Tried to stick his hand up her dress. And you know what happened after that,” I said.

She huddled into my body, and I pressed her as close as I could get her. The scent of my bookworm soothed me. Fresh, like springtime on a walk in the countryside. But, I needed to ask her. I had to know that she truly believed me over that fucking snake.

“Do you really think I’d do that to you? Drop you just like that?” I questioned. “Please tell me that you don’t?”

CHAPTER 30

Enzo

Sorcha lifted her head, fixing her beautiful eyes on mine, then she touched my face, easing me down to her. She kissed me as though it were our last night on earth, then I was slapped hard on my arm.

“Mierda,” I exclaimed.

“Fucking hell, Fuentes. Of course I don’t believe it. After the week we’ve spent together? Don’t bloody doubt me either, handsome,” she replied.

The relief flooded my entire heart and soul, and I groaned loudly. “Thank fucking god. You’re my endgame, mi amor. I want to be with you until I take my last fucking breath.”

“Shit, really?”

“Really, you beautiful, sexy little minx. As long as you don’t mind having an older man as a boyfriend?” I answered.

She snorted with a spectacular roll of her eyes, and ran her hands through my hair. “How old are you?” she asked.

“Forty seven,” I answered honestly.

She giggled into my chest, and I couldn’t help the happy smile that appeared on my face. Sorcha looked up, and my body went fucking bat shit crazy. She had no idea what she did to me, just by giving me those big brown eyes.

“I’m thirty two,” she said, and I chuckled.

“And that’s okay with you?” I asked, secretly worried that it might be too big a gap.

“Bit late now,” she replied, grinning.

My heart started to hammer inside my ribcage, and the sound that came out of me was nothing short of a fucking growl. I needed to know.

“cariño, I need you to be okay with this,” I said, running my hands through her hair, eyes trained on her own.

Sorcha glared up at me, and the fire in her eyes flew straight to my damned cock. “I don’t give a shit about age, Fuentes,” she purred seductively. “And that means you’re my sugar daddy.”

“Very funny, you sexy little minx.”

“Should I call you daddy?”

My body went feral, as my mind fell so fucking far into the dirtiest of gutters, imagining my Sorcha crying out ‘Daddy’ while I fucked her.

“You bad girl, mi amor. And I love you, cariño. I will never get bored of you,” I reiterated.

I stood up and took her hand, picking up our glasses with the other. She swiped the bottle up, and I led her to the sofa. I sat down, carefully placing the glasses onto the coffee table, then I patted my thighs.

“Straddle, cariño,” I ordered.

“Aren’t you bossy?”

“Sit down, Sorcha.”

She smirked, then did as she was told. I started to massage her hips, ass, then up her spine to her shoulders, and she kissed me. I smacked her ass, and she gasped, parting her lips, so I slipped my tongue inside, and Sorcha moaned. It was such a cock hardening sound, and I started rocking her over my now painfully hard dick.

“I want you,” she moaned into my mouth. “Fuck me, handsome.”

I reluctantly broke our steamy kiss, then reached down, freeing my cock. My hands were already pushing up the skirt of her dress, then she suddenly hopped off my lap, yanked her knickers off, then climbed back on.

For the first time in my adult fucking life, I froze, and I just watched my future wife line her pussy up with my dick, then she sat down, making me groan out loud at the heavenly feeling.

“Fuck, mi amor,” I croaked.

“That’s what I’m going to do, handsome,” she purred, rocking her hips back and forth, circling them as she did. “Relax, and let me fuck you.”

And died and gone to fucking heaven.

The alarm was loud, piercing the silence, and I shuffled, pulling Sorcha closer. I kissed her forehead, and she groaned into my chest.

“Good morning, mi amor,” I whispered into her hair.

“Hey you,” she replied, and she lifted her head, those beautiful eyes focusing on my own.

I knew we had to go into the office this morning, and I hoped that Sorcha wouldn’t shy away from our new relationship status. I kissed her once more, then started to climb from the bed, morning wood standing to attention.

“I’ll need to call home before we go to the office, cariño. You coming with me?” I asked, as I went to the bathroom.

“Yes, I’d like that. Want to see where you live.”

I relieved my bladder with difficulty, due to a huge boner, then I went back to my sexy girlfriend, climbing into bed, and pulling her into my arms.

“And you can see where we’re sleeping tonight,” I said, leaving a trail of kisses down her neck, and across her shoulder.

Sorcha lifted her face to mine, and I had to kiss her, hands exploring her sexy curves. And… my dick was hard again, needing to be inside my little Barnes. But, my phone had other ideas.

“Damn it,” she grumbled, and I had to chuckle.

“Later, my sexy little bookworm,” I said, kissing her once more.

I turned and grabbed my phone from the bedside table, and David’s name was flashing on the screen. I answered it, and Sorcha snuggled back into my arms.

“Hola, David.”

“Are you home? You didn’t check in, and I need your final draft.”

“Good to hear from you, David. And we’re both great, thanks for asking,” I drawled.

“Very funny. Be here for ten thirty, and tell my little Barnes to bring finished proofs only,” then he was gone.

Sorcha had her chin resting on my chest, eyes gazing up at me, but those lips were curved up into a very deliciously sinful smile.

“I guess we don’t have time to fool around now?” she asked.

“I’m sorry, my horny little lady, but no. We’ll have to come back to this later,” I replied, and I climbed from the bed, leaving mi mujer looking all flushed, with messy hair. I adjusted my dick, and reluctantly went to grab a quick shower.

I had Sorcha’s hand tightly in mine as we walked into the publishing house. The last time I was here? I was heartbroken, and desperate to find my little bookworm. Now, I finally had her by my side, and I aimed for her little reading corner.

A white two seater sofa, oval oak coffee table, situated next to the large window overlooking the busy, bustling street below. Sorcha put down her hefty handbag, then turned to smile at me. I didn’t waste one more second, needing to show everyone in this office who I belonged to now.

I yanked her into my arms, slamming my mouth over hers, kissing her possessively, hungrily, and I heard a few gasps echoing around the room.

I didn’t fucking care.

“Holy shit, handsome,” she squeaked, once I released her mouth.

“They need to know you belong to me, cariño,” I growled.

“I’m not a possession, you cheeky fucking shit.”

“I belong to you, cariño,” I replied.

I noticed her eyes dilate as I caressed her sexy ass, then she smiled, pressing herself against me. But, we were both about to be questioned spectacularly. Sorcha’s friends were suddenly beside us, and they looked both annoyed and confused.

“Where the bloody hell have you been?” fired the lovely Moira.

Taller than Sorcha. Deep auburn hair, light green eyes, with a dusting of freckles across her cheeks. My best friend would go nuts for this beautiful lady. Harrison was slender. Dark brown hair, olive skin, and eyes as dark brown as mine. He looked Mediterranean.

“And why are you kissing Enzo?” he questioned. “We thought you hated him?”

“Wow,” I muttered, hand flying through my hair.

“Christ, I didn’t hate him,” she exclaimed. “I had a huge bloody crush on him,” then she blushed as her eyes flew up to meet mine.

Moira let out a high pitched squeak, then glanced up at me. I simply winked at her, tugging Sorcha closer.

“My little bookworm vanished to Italy. I brought her home, and now we’re dating,” I stated.

“What the hell?” Moira gasped.

Sorcha slapped my chest as she snorted into that cock hardening giggle, then turned back to her friends.

“I’m sorry that I disappeared. But, it’s true about me and Enzo,” she said, and my heart soared at her words.

“You called him a man whore prick,” Harrison stated, and I flinched at the title. “And all this time? You could’ve called.”

I pulled Sorcha into my body, kissing her lovingly, then I fixed my eyes onto her two concerned friends. I saw the guilt in her expression, so I had to help ease that.

“Yes. I was. But, after having this beautiful little lady in my hotel bed? I didn’t want anyone else. Sorcha gave me some choice words, then took off. Once I found out where she was hiding, I flew out there and brought her home,” I said.

They each gawked at my little bookworm in shock, then Moira held up a hand, and smacked her shoulder.

“Back the fuck up. You slept together? When?”

I didn’t hesitate. “Last year’s writer’s convention.”

“What?”

Before either of us could answer, my publisher’s voice called out. “Put my sister down, and get in here, Enzo.”

“Hi, David,” Sorcha called.

“Hey little Barnes.”

He marched over and took my lady from me, hugging his little sister tightly. “Don’t bloody run away again, Sorcha. I missed you,” he said. “And you? Hurt her? And I’ll gut you like a fish.”

I rubbed my chin with a knowing smile, and I patted his shoulder. “I hear you, David. And I won’t hurt her. I promise,” and he gave me a polite nod. “I’ll be right back, mi amor,” I whispered into Sorcha’s hair, ghosting my lips over the soft skin of her neck.

“Okay,” she answered, then I followed her brother back into his office.

I handed over the final copy of my latest book, then sat on the sofa by the left wall of his office. David glanced out into the main reception, and I saw Sorcha being interrogated by her friends, making me smile warmly. I couldn’t help but soak up her curves, the line of her neck, and the way she relaxed in their presence.

“You’re in love aren’t you?”

I turned to see David watching me intently, and I nodded instinctively. “Deeply, madly, David. I’ve never been in love like this. Ever,” I admitted.

“I meant it. If you hurt my little sister,” but he stopped, as I let out a frustrated groan.

“I know I have the shittiest fucking reputation, David. And I can’t change that, but I want Sorcha to be my endgame. My wife, and I want us to grow old together.”

He looked back at Sorcha, then walked to the door, closing it. He patted my shoulder as he joined me on the sofa, then smiled.

“There’s something else, Enzo. What is it?” he asked.

I leaned forward, arms resting on my thighs, and I turned to look at my publisher. “Ethan fucking Snow,” I simply said.

“What?”

“He’s called Sorcha twice. He dared to send one of my previous conquests to my private fucking cottage, and had the audacity to turn up. The way my lady flinched at him? I wanted to break his fucking nose again,” I replied.

David shot to his feet, and kicked the leg of his desk in anger. “That son of a bitch broke Sorcha. She was a damned mess after she caught him having sex with some other girl,” he growled.

“I know. She told me all about what happened. He’s a fucking parasite. Some of the things he said to her in a voicemail?”

“Things?” he asked.

“He suggested that I’d drop her like a stone, David. I would never do that to Sorcha. I fucking love her,” I replied.

He fixed his serious eyes on mine, arms crossed over his chest. He leaned against his desk, and I waited patiently for his response.

“Ethan Snow had the cheek to blame Sorcha for cheating. He accused her of bloody neglecting him, so he looked for attention elsewhere,” he said.

“Excuse me?”

“Indeed. Sorcha was very much in love with him, and she fucking doted on that slimy son of a bitch,” David replied.

I nodded and raked a hand over my face, the urge to find the bastard growing by the second. It seemed Snow was also a narcissist.

“You need evening wear for the convention. Day wear which is…” but I interrupted, knowing the usual speech.

“Yep. Smart, casual. I remember. I’m going to treat Sorcha to a classy gown. She’ll steal the show at the dinner and dance,” and her brother suddenly chuckled.

He picked up my manuscript, and walked around to the other side of his desk. I stood, as I knew this meeting was over.

“Snow’s hankering for a meeting, David. I don’t want him anywhere near Sorcha,” I said.

“Me either, but he’ll be at the convention,” David started, but Sorcha’s voice stopped each of us in our tracks.

“Who’ll be there?” she asked.

CHAPTER 31

Sorcha

We walked into a very fancy boutique, and Enzo held onto my hand tightly. After finding out that Ethan bloody Snow was going to be attending the convention, it had caused a panicked, raging storm to erupt inside my gut.

“cariño?” Enzo asked, and I turned to look up at his handsome face.

“This is a really fancy place,” I muttered.

“That’s not the issue,” he answered.

I looked down at the stunning gowns hanging from the rails, and I brushed my hand over the exquisite fabrics. I chewed my bottom lip as I thought about seeing that cheating bastard again. He’d been so fucking cruel in those voicemails. All with his sickly sweet tone.

“I’m okay,” I started, but my voice cracked, tears gathering in the corner of my eyes, and I cursed. “Shit.”

Enzo didn’t hesitate, and gathered me up in his strong arms. I hated that that son of a bitch still had this effect on me. Despised the fact that he still made me feel as though I was plain, unattractive, and unworthy.

“I know he hurt you, cariño. But you have me now. That slimy fucker won’t hurt you again, because I’ll break more bones if he so much as looks at you in the wrong way,” he whispered.

“Thank you,” I replied. “And no need to break more shit.”

“He hurts you again? I won’t be responsible for my actions, mi amor. Now, enough of that slimy fucker. Let’s get you a gown that’ll look even sexier on my bedroom floor,” he said.

That elicited a giggle to fall out of me, and I lifted my head, and gazed up at him. There was nothing but love in his eyes, and I felt so damned safe all of a sudden. Enzo had me waited on by a young assistant, and I found a beautiful evening gown in blood red. Long sleeves, high neckline, but there was one long split up the left side of the skirt. I was nervous about wearing something so…tight?

“Perfecto,” Enzo said.

“You’re sure? It’s really… figure hugging,” I muttered.

My entire body was bristling with worry, hands roaming over the fabric. Enzo seemed to notice, and he stopped my hands from moving.

“Sí, mi amor. Perfecto. You look beautiful. And don’t think anything less than that.”

Once the dress was boxed up and paid for, Enzo took me to a small coffee shop and treated me to caffeine, and a chocolate muffin. My mind, however, was still being tormented by Ethan bloody Snow.

“You’re too quiet,” Enzo said, taking my hand in his.

“Thanks,” I simply replied with.

“For?”

“I thought I’d got over what he did to me, but seeing him the other day, hearing his voice again?”

I yelped as I was swiftly tugged onto Enzo’s lap, and his face was buried in the crook of my neck. It felt so bloody amazing, but I noticed the sly glances, and the phones taking pictures. He didn’t seem to give a fuck, but I nudged his shoulder.

“People are taking pictures, Enzo,” I whispered, in a slight panic.

“I don’t care, cariño,” he growled into my hair.

He picked up the chocolate muffin and broke off a piece, then he held it up to my lips. I frowned a little in confusion. Enzo simply smiled like a wild cat about to pounce, but his words caused my body to go into bloody heat, craving him like a randy she wolf, desperate to mate.

“Open your mouth, cariño,” he ordered.

My mouth parted without thinking, and the chocolatey morsel was popped inside, then his lips were on my neck, trailing light kisses along it. And holy bloody hell, my pussy suddenly ached with a desperate need for his dick.

“I want everyone to know that we’re together, cariño. No more hiding, bueno?” he purred into my ear.

I sighed, head lolling back a little as he continued teasing the sensitive skin, nipping a little. His hand was now on my ass, the other running up my spine.

“Okay,” I managed to whisper.

He lifted his head, that wicked sparkle dancing in his eyes, and he winked. “I want them all to know that you’re mine, Sorcha. That I’m yours, including that fucker who hurt you.”

I dropped my gaze to the muffin, and Enzo seemed to notice, so he took another piece, then wiggled it in front of my mouth once more. I opened up, allowing him to pop it into my mouth. The subtle clicks floated into my ears, and I knew Enzo heard them too, so I swallowed the muffin in my mouth, took a sip of my coffee, then I took his face in my hands.

“Fine, handsome. Let’s tell the bloody world,” I whispered.

I slammed my lips onto his own, and I kissed him hungrily, claiming this sexy, gorgeous guy as mine. A small cough caused us to shoot apart, and the young server was standing in front of the table, grasping a book tightly in his hand, pen in the other.

“I’m sorry, Mr. Fuentes. But I love your books, and I hoped you would sign this for me?” he asked. “And get a selfie?”

“Sure thing…?”

“Ryan. It’s Ryan,” and I had to smile at the way the young guy’s eyes literally lit up with excitement.

It was at this moment that it truly hit me who I was sitting with. Enzo Fuentes was a famous author. A celebrity. And I’d just been snogging him.

In public… Shitting bloody bollocks.

We arrived at the most beautiful detached stone townhouse, with a long driveway, and a massive garage. It had a security gate, which Enzo had to type in a code.

“Fucking hell, Enzo,” I gasped as my eyes raked over the property. “This is stunning too.”

“Thanks, cariño. Now, I need to have you naked in my bed, then I’m taking you to dinner,” he replied, diving from the car.

I took his hand as he helped me out, then I was swiftly tugged to the front door, and hoisted over his shoulder, causing me to let out a loud yelp in surprise. He literally slapped my butt, and carried me upstairs to a very elegant bedroom.

“Oh my god, Fuentes. You weren’t bloody kidding were you,” I exclaimed, as I was dropped onto the bed.

“No. Now strip, sexy little lady. I need to fuck my girlfriend,” he ordered.

Enzo

I had Sorcha nestled against my side, fingers teasing her hot skin. Down over her hip, thigh, then all the way back up her arm, which was draped over my chest. She sighed as she nuzzled her face into my chest, and I had to smile smugly.

I had eaten my little bookworm’s pussy first, making her scream as she came all over my tongue and fingers. After that, I’d had her riding me, and Sorcha looked so fucking beautiful as she rocked herself back and forth, taking her sweet time, teasing me.

Gods, I fucking loved this woman. I had allowed her to do it until I was desperately in need of release, so I took her hips in an ironclad grip, and yanked her over me roughly until I exploded, filling her up with my cum. I gave my sexy lady two more orgasms before reluctantly having to stop.

“I guess we need to shower?” Sorcha said, kissing my chest.

“Probably a good idea, cariño.”

She sat up, wrapping the sheet around herself, and I shook my head with a small chuckle. I had kissed every inch of Sorcha’s sexy body, yet she was still covering up. I halted her movements, making her yelp as I yanked her into my body.

“Why are you hiding yourself from me, cariño?”

“I’m not.”

“You are,” I fired.

I dived from the bed, and threw her back over my shoulder, sheet too, and a high pitched squeal fell out of her mouth.

“What the fuck, Fuentes,” she gasped, and she actually slapped my ass.

“Bad girl,” I simply replied, then strode into the bathroom to shower with her all over again.

The car dropped us at the entrance to one of the finest restaurants that I had frequented in the past. I wanted only the best for my lady, but she halted our steps as she saw the doorman decked out in a fancy long coat.

“Shit, Enzo. I’m not dressed up enough for this place.”

I gazed down at Sorcha, and she looked beautiful dressed in a little black number. V-neckline, sleeveless, and sat just below her knees. The one unique thing I’d noticed were the pockets in the skirt of the dress.

“You’re perfect,” I replied, kissing her cheek as I led her inside.

The Maitre’D smiled warmly at me, then I noticed his eyes fall to Sorcha. The way he looked down his nose at her had my hackles up in a flash.

“Good evening, Mr. Fuentes. We haven’t had the pleasure for some time. Is this a business meeting with your PA?” he questioned.

“My PA?”

“Yes, Sir,” and he looked right at Sorcha.

Sorcha physically flinched, and tried to hide behind me, but I refused to let her. “That was a little rude, George. This beautiful lady is my girlfriend.”

The Maitre’D frowned, then simply smiled back at me, not an ounce of concern for Sorcha’s feelings.

“Apologies, Mr. Fuentes,” but he didn’t give my little bookworm another second of his attention. “Your usual table? Or somewhere a little more… discreet?”

I gritted my teeth, trying to stay calm, but my anger was swiftly rising from deep inside my gut. Sorcha suddenly tugged on my hand, and I gazed down at a very embarrassed, uncomfortable lady.

“We can go somewhere else, Enzo,” she whispered.

“No, mi amor. I’ll take our usual table, and George? I trust you can show my future wife some respect?” I fired at him.

George squirmed where he stood, grabbing two menus, then gesturing for us to follow him. I pecked Sorcha’s lips, holding her hand tightly, then followed the Maitre’D, who was walking as though he were being stalked by a wild animal.

He grabbed a young waiter, ramming the menus into his hand, then whispered something into his ear. He then vanished without looking back. The young man gave me a winning smile, and he winked at Sorcha, making her relax a little.

“This way, Sir, miss,” he said, and we followed him to my favourite table by the window.

He placed a menu in front of the chair I always sat in, but the other was put in front of the chair opposite, and a low growl fell from me. They were seating Sorcha with her back to the fucking room.

“cariño, come and sit beside me,” I ordered, eyes fixed on the waiter. “George told you to seat my girlfriend there, didn’t he?”

“Yes sir.”

“Tell him that I am extremely unhappy with his conduct towards Sorcha. She deserves respect.” I snapped.

“Yes sir. And I’m sorry, but I have to do as I’m told. And you look very pretty, miss,” he said quietly, and winked at Sorcha again.

“Thank you,” she replied.

“I’ll bring you some wine, Mr. Fuentes,” he said.

“And it’ll be on the house, due to our terrible welcome,” I stated. “What’s your name, youngster?”

“Harry.”

“Here, Harry,” and I slipped a twenty pound note into his hand. “That’s for you.”

“Thank you,” Harry gushed, then quickly left the two of us alone.

Sorcha was very quiet, hiding her face behind the menu as the waiter returned, pouring us each a generous amount of wine. Harry gently touched Sorcha’s arm, and she peeked over the menu. I hated the way she seemed to try and hide away. It caused a dull ache to bloom in my heart.

“Would you like to taste the wine, miss?” he asked.

“Me?”

“Sure.”

I looked up at Harry, and gave him a very grateful smile, then touched Sorcha’s thigh. “Go ahead,” I said.

Sorcha picked up the glass, then took two huge gulps from it, coughing a little. She gave Harry a thumbs up, and he poured her a little more, along with mine.

She was on edge, eyes darting around the room, and it pained me to see her this way. We swiftly ordered our starters and main courses, then my little bookworm shot to her feet.

“I’m just going to the bathroom, Enzo,” she said.

“Sure thing, cariño,” I replied. “Are you alright?”

“That waiter is nice. That’s about it,” she muttered.

CHAPTER 32

Enzo

Iwas on my feet, and I hugged her tightly to me. “I’ll cancel our food order. We’ll go somewhere else less fucking rude,” I whispered into her ear, and Sorcha instantly relaxed, and smiled up at me.

“Thank you,” she replied, pecking my lips.

As soon as Sorcha left the table, disappearing to the ladies room, a familiar grating, high-pitched voice rang out. I groaned, then took a gulp of my wine.

“Enzo, baby. Long time no see. You look delicious,” she purred.

“Hailey,” I said, coldly.

Tall. Slender with unproportionately huge, fake breasts. Strawberry blonde hair, and I had unfortunately fucked her years ago.

“I missed you, baby. When are you going to come party with me again?” she purred, sidling closer.

“Never. I’m off the market. Run along now,” I replied, icily.

“Oh?”

“Yes,” I simply responded with.

“Such a waste. Well, you know where I am when you get bored of your little… charity project.”

Before I could respond Hailey sashayed away, and I let out an annoyed groan. Hailey was a vicious little snake, and I didn’t want her anywhere near my lady. I pinched the bridge of my nose, and glanced towards the rest rooms. Sorcha seemed to taking way too fucking long, then a blur of black came bolting from the corridor.

And straight out of the entrance to the damned restaurant.

“Fuck,” I growled.

I shot to my feet, grabbing her jacket, and my own things. And that was the moment I saw a very smug Hailey coming out of the same corridor, an evil glint in those vicious eyes.

Sorcha…

Sorcha

I hated being in this place, and when Enzo told me we could leave, I immediately relaxed, and practically screamed with joy.

The rich, snotty and obnoxious customers were whispering about me, smirking, and looking down their privileged, arrogant noses, and I wanted the ground to open up and swallow me whole.

I swiftly relieved myself, then washed my hands. As I started to touch up my makeup, I heard a very cold giggle, and I turned to find a tall, leggy blonde, squeezed into a tight fitting navy blue dress. Her fake breasts were practically spilling out of the top of the sweetheart neckline, and she had perfectly manicured nails, expensive jewellery adorning her neck, fingers and ears.

Everything I fucking wasn’t.

“It’s such a shame,” she purred.

“Shame?” I questioned.

“Enzo deserves so much better than a squirrelly little mouse like you.”

“What?” I gasped, heart racing suddenly.

“You’re just a phase, you know. Enzo will snap out of it soon. Then he’ll shake you off. He’s way out of your league, honey.” she replied, moving closer.

I backed up, my ass hitting the front of the sink, heart thundering in my ears. She stopped in front of me, and her finger suddenly jabbed my shoulder.

“You don’t belong here, missy. You’d be better off giving up now, you know? Before he drops you like a boring, pathetic, and irritating little speck of dirt,” she hissed, right into my face.

My entire body shut down, tears suddenly gathering in my eyes, as she raked her ice cold ones over me, glaring at me as though I was something she’d stepped in. She giggled again, shaking her head, and I couldn’t stand it.

“Oh, don’t cry, honey,” she purred. “Just get lost. You’re delusional. Enzo deserves a real woman, not a dowdy little nobody.”

I barged past her, needing air. Needing to be as far away from this damned stuck up place as I could get. I cared about Enzo. I was falling for him, but I didn’t fit into this world. That cruel bitch was right.

I strode from the building, and down the street, but my feet came to a sudden stop as I hit the outside. The cool air wrapped around my bare arms, then skittered down my spine, causing me to shiver. Tears fell as my heart started to crack, then I realised I was doing exactly what I’d done before.

Running away.

“Sorcha fucking Barnes.”

I whirled around to see a very concerned writer striding towards me. No, not this time. I wasn’t running. I wanted to fight for Enzo Fuentes. I didn’t hesitate, and I literally ran at him, throwing myself into his arms. I was engulfed in his own, and I slammed my mouth onto his, kissing the fucking air from him.

“Take me somewhere else, Enzo,” I exclaimed.

“I thought you were running away from me, mi amor.”

“Not this time.”

“Thank fuck for that. You scared the fucking crap out of me. What did that poisonous bitch say to you?” he questioned.

I shook my head, burying myself into his body, legs dangling in the air. “Not here. There’s a bistro that I go to with my friends. Can we go there?”

“Sure thing, mi amor,” he replied.

He placed me carefully onto my feet, then he wiped the tears from my cheeks. He leaned in and kissed me. It was confident, yet gentle, then he took my hand, lacing our fingers together.

“Lead the way, cariño, but tell me what that bitch said.”

I didn’t say anything for a few moments, then a long sigh fell from me. I knew that I had to be brutally honest with him. Some of what that cow had said made a little sense.

“She told me that I didn’t belong there. She said you deserved better than a… squirrelly little mouse,” and Enzo’s feet stopped.

He turned to look at me, eyes darkening with each passing second. “What else did she say?” he asked, his voice scarily calm.

“You’ll shake me off. You’re out of my league, and you’ll drop me like a boring little speck of dirt,” I replied.

Enzo Fuentes literally growled, before yanking me back into his arms. He didn’t say anything for a long time, then he eased me backwards.

“That’s not everything, Sorcha. Tell me,” he whispered, gazing right into my eyes.

“I don’t,” and I blinked, tears reappearing as her vicious words replayed in my head.

“Sí, cariño. All of it.”

I took a deep breath, then lifted my face, eyes locking back onto Enzo’s beautiful dark brown ones, then I told him.

“She called me delusional. And you deserved a real woman, not a dowdy little nobody,” I blurted.

“Qué?” he hissed, then he tugged me into a crushing embrace.

I wrapped my arms around his waist, but I wanted to tell him what I was feeling, so I took a deep breath, and opened my mouth.

“A part of me believed her, Enzo,” I whispered.

“Are you fucking kidding me, Sorcha? Jesus Christ, cariño,” he groaned.

“It’s the truth,” I admitted.

He eased me backwards, cupping my face, those brown eyes boring right into my heart and soul.

“I need you to hear me, lady. My soulmate was right under my damned nose for a long time. Now I have you? I’m never fucking letting go. I will never shake you off. I want to have you attached to me twenty four fucking hours a day. And you are out of my league. I don’t fucking deserve you, my beautiful, sexy, feisty little lady. Now, let’s go eat at your bistro,” and he kissed my lips tenderly, hand holding onto mine.

His every word had caused my heart to explode with emotion, and a very happy smile crept onto my face.

“Okay. Screw that nasty fake bitch. I’d happily be attached to you like a little tree monkey. And I’m going to take you to the best place for food,” I replied.

He arched an amused brow, but smirked. I got my feet moving, and dragged him along the street, making my writer chuckle as I did so. Once I reached the entrance to the small restaurant, the delicious smells wafted into my nose. Twinkling lights adorned the outside of the building, muffled laughter and chatter coming from inside.

“Let me share a slice of my life with you, Enzo,” I said, then I tugged him into my favourite restaurant.

Enzo

Watching Sorcha running back at me had my heart coming back to life. As soon as I saw that bitch? I understood what had happened, and I wanted to scoop Sorcha up, and whisk her away from the vile crap that had to have been thrown at her. Listening to the utter bullshit that Hailey had spouted? I wanted to walk back in there, and smack that smug smile from her face. But that wasn’t in my nature. I would never hit a woman.

Sorcha was now pulling me inside a very quaint little bistro, and she looked so much lighter. Relaxed. Happy.

“Once you eat here? You’ll be hooked, Mr food phobia,” she stated.

“Oh really? That’s a bold statement, you cheeky little minx,” I replied.

Sorcha giggled, and pulled me in between the tables, eyes seemingly scanning the room. Then a very familiar voice shouted over the noise.

“Barnes, get over here,” a female voice called out.

My little bookworm whirled around, myself doing the same. “Hey,” she yelled back.

Her friends were sitting at a table in the far corner, next to an open patio door, leading to a balcony with more seating outside.

“Do you mind if we join them?” she asked.

It wasn’t the evening I had intended, but I had to admit that the atmosphere in here was very tempting, so I nodded.

“Sure thing, cariño,” I answered. “Lead the way.”

She dragged me through the cramped, intimate room, between tightly packed tables filled with diners, while her friends were grabbing an extra couple of chairs.

“Hello, Mr. Fuentes. You two are rather dressed up?” Moira purred. “Sit your asses down,” she ordered. “As long as this isn’t beneath you, Mr fancy pants?”

I smirked and pulled out the chair for Sorcha, then sat too. I took off my jacket, hung it over the back of the chair, then started to roll up my shirt sleeves, as it was rather stuffy in here.

“You think I’m a snob?” I asked her.

The dark-haired guy, with very serious eyes, sitting next to Harrison, sat forward, forearms resting on the table.

“No. You’re not a snotty fucker are you?” he questioned.

“No, I’m not,” I answered.

“It’s Daniel. But, I have to point out one very important thing. You’ve got one hell of a precious human sitting next to you. I want to know what your intentions are with our little Barnes?” he questioned.

“Dan,” Sorcha exclaimed.

“Nope. I want to know. Her ex did a fucking shitty number on her. That’s not happening again.”

I wrapped my arm around Sorcha’s shoulders, dragging her chair as close as I could get her, causing her to giggle. She slapped my chest, but gave me her eyes, and they were finally free of sadness.

“I’m never going to hurt Sorcha. And that’s because I’m madly in love with her,” I announced.

CHAPTER 33

Enzo

The trio stilled, eyes fixed on mine, and I had to smile. Moira let out a little squeak. Harrison studied me intently, but the young guy called Daniel snorted. He didn’t turn away, and I braced for impact.

“If you love her, then there’s no more rich, fake bitches in your sights?”

“No.”

“No more fucking anything with a vagina and tits?”

“Dan,” Harrison hissed.

“It’s fine, Harrison. My reputation is a shitstorm. But, you don’t know why I did the things I did. When Sorcha disappeared? I flew to Italy to bring her home, so we could talk.”

“Talk about what?” Dan asked.

“The fact that we had an amazing night in my hotel. Sorcha pulled her first disappearing act, then ghosted me. And then she pulled a second vanishing act, just like fucking Houdini.”

Sorcha let out a loud groan, then slapped my shoulder again. I simply grinned, then my hand landed at the back of her head. I tugged her to me, and I slammed my mouth on hers, kissing her passionately. Her friends erupted into cheers, and they whistled, clapped, and stamped their feet.

“Fucking hell, handsome,” Sorcha gasped, after releasing her lips.

“Ti amo, cariño,” I whispered, then sat back, holding her hand hostage in mine.

Food swiftly arrived, along with bottles of beer, two wine glasses, and one bottle of Shiraz. Barbecued ribs and chicken wings. Corn cobs slathered in butter, baskets of fries and coleslaw, and it all smelled rather delicious.

The chatter around the table was predictable. We were both questioned about the night in the hotel, my journey to Italy, and the evening’s events in the restaurant earlier, resulting in us being here with them.

“The bitch said what?” Dan questioned angrily.

“She called me squirrelly,” Sorcha repeated. “And I was delusional.”

“She’d better not show her face near me. I’ll smack the fake bitch,” he warned.

“Join the fucking queue,” Moira added.

I sat up, wiping my hands on the paper napkin. I took a sip of my wine, then smirked at the three of them. I didn’t have to worry too much about Hailey. I had something far better up my sleeve.

“No need for violence,” I said.

“And why the fuck not?” Dan questioned.

“I have some very damning evidence, which would end her career in a flash, Dan,” I replied.

They all gave me their full attention now, and Sorcha squeezed my hand. She suddenly stood up, and slipped onto my lap, arms coming around my neck. She kissed me briefly, then picked up her glass.

“And what pray tell is that?” asked Moira.

“Yeah, Fuentes. Spit it out before my husband and this crazy cow’s heads explode,” Daniel drawled.

“Funny,” Moira scoffed, throwing a napkin at him. “But, true.”

I let out a laugh, then leaned forward onto the table, the trio echoing my movements. I lowered my voice a little, and smiled devilishly.

“I possess some… delicate photographic evidence, Moira. Showing us what she gets up to in her free time. I’m happy to say that the only poison I put into my body is alcohol,” and their eyes widened, as they understood what I was getting at.

“Oh my God. Vein or nose?” Moira asked.

I simply touched my nose with a wink, remaining silent. They got my reference, and fell into wicked laughter.

“Guessing that’s how she keeps her figure?” Daniel said.

“Indeed,” I replied, and I gazed up at my little bookworm, happily perched on my lap.

They finally got around to the topic of Sorcha’s disappearing act, and she squirmed where she sat, hiding her face in my neck. Unfortunately, my sexy little minx was unwittingly giving me a hard on.

“She slapped you?” Harrison exclaimed, then fell into laughter.

“Yes. And my girlfriend slapped some sense into me. That’s why we’re here now, and I’m not letting her go again,” I said honestly.

“Change the bloody subject,” Sorcha grumbled.

“Oh, no, you cheeky witch,” Moira laughed. “You deserve this for keeping this a fucking secret.”

“I’d suggest handcuffs, Fuentes,” Daniel drawled.

That elicited another bout of happy laughter, and Sorcha gave them her middle finger. Moira lifted up her glass, and slapped me on the shoulder.

“To our Sorcha. And the man whore prick who she finally tamed,” she yelled.

Everyone clinked glasses, and Sorcha groaned loudly, but lifted her head, gazing at me. I ran my finger down her cheek, smiling tenderly.

“You did tame me, cariño. And I’m yours forever. Siempre,” I whispered.

I could feel their eyes watching the two of us, as I gave my lady all of my attention, kissing her lovingly. This evening had started off badly, but turned out so much fucking better.

“Can I ask you something, Enzo?” Moira asked. “And I’d love you to be honest?”

“It depends what it is,” I replied, arching my brow.

Sorcha rested her head on my shoulder, fingers tracing circles on the back of my neck, and I secretly wanted to scoop her into my arms and whisk her back to my place.

But, Sorcha’s friends were gazing at the two of us with intrigue and amusement. They had never seen this side of me before.

“Have you ever been in love before Sorcha?” Moira asked.

Sorcha gazed right at me, stilling on my lap, but I pecked the tip of her nose, then turned my attention to Moira.

“Yes,” I answered truthfully.

“It didn’t end well did it?” asked Daniel.

“No,” I replied.

“Will you tell us what happened?” asked Moira, touching my hand, which had inadvertently curled into a fist. “You can trust us.”

I squeezed Sorcha a little tighter as she kissed my cheek, and I sighed, taking a swift gulp of my replenished wine glass.

“I caught my fiancèe fucking my best friend three days before our wedding,” I answered. “And that broke me into a million pieces.”

The silence descended for a few charged moments, then the very forward Daniel broke it. He whistled, then drained the remnants of his beer bottle.

“That’s fucking cruel. What a bitch.”

“Indeed. My best friend punched her. Broke her nose,” I added.

“And I’d love to shake their hand,” Harrison piped up. “Who was he?”

The chuckle inadvertently fell from me, and I ruffled my hair. Sorcha snorted into a small giggle too, and picked up her own glass. I had already told Sorcha what had happened that day, so she knew what I was about to say.

“I’m sure Abbi will shake your hand, Harrison.”

“A girl?” Moira exclaimed.

I nodded with a wide grin. Abbi and Raya had been there that day, and Raya had held my Mama back from smacking Charlotte herself. Abbi, however, had hissed like a wild cat, then practically pounced on the cheating bitch, and without hesitation, she punched her square in the face, the crack of her nose echoing around the room, mingled with Charlotte’s scream of pain.

“Yes. Abbi may look sweet and innocent? But she’s a little Demon in disguise,” I replied.

“And she can drink every single one of us under the bloody table,” Sorcha stated.

I laughed loudly as they all gawked at my little bookworm, and I had to agree with her, as Abbi had an iron fucking stomach.

“That’s very true,” I said.

“Well, we need to see that for ourselves, as Daniel here? He’s the champion drinker in our group,” Moira replied.

Harrison snorted into giggles, as Daniel stood and took a dramatic bow. “Thank you, Thank you,” he drawled.

“You may have met your match, Daniel,” I stated, smirking knowingly to myself.

“Nope. Never,” Harrison replied, shaking his head. “My husband is the king.”

I sat up taller, pressing Sorcha closer, then took another sip of wine. I fixed my eyes on each one of my little bookworm’s friends.

“Then I shall arrange an evening to test out the theory,” I said. “Now, we should really call it a night, cariño.”

Moira looked at her watch and groaned. “Yep. Us too, as David won’t appreciate us being hungover tomorrow.”

I popped Sorcha back onto her chair, then stood up, pulling out my wallet, then winked at the three of them.

“I’ll get this. My treat for being nice to me,” I said.

Daniel laughed loudly, then jumped to his feet. He waltzed around to my side of the table, then took me by complete surprise. He wrapped an arm around my shoulder, lightly punching my other.

“You’re not the prick that I thought you were, Enzo. You should show this version of yourself more often,” he said. “And cheers pal.”

Moira snorted, and laughed into her hand as she put on her jacket, Harrison doing the same. Sorcha was tugged to her feet, then hugged tightly, and I glanced around at the small group. It might not have been the night I’d planned, but it had been the most fun I’d had in a very long time.

I’d been dragged back into touch with the real world. Sorcha didn’t need all the fancy bullshit. She just needed me, and my heart stuttered, as though a legion of excited butterflies were having a fucking party.

“Thank you, Enzo,” Moira said, pecking my cheek.

“We’ll pay next time,” Harrison said, and he patted my shoulder too.

I had to grin happily, then helped my sexy little lady into her own jacket, after she was hugged by her other two friends. We all walked towards the front of the entrance, and I paid for dinner. Then we made our way back to my place, after waving off the trio.

“I believe you’ve been accepted into the group, handsome,” she said, huddling into me as we made our way to the car Enzo had organised.

“And that makes me extremely happy, mi amor,” I replied, opening the car door.

“Me too,” she said.

I followed her inside, taking her hand in mine, once we were fastened in. I needed to know, though. So, I turned to face her, touching her cheek tenderly.

“Are you sure that you’re alright, after what that bitch said to you?” I started, but Sorcha stopped me with her lips touching mine.

“I’m fine, Enzo. I had a slight wobble, doubting myself. But, you assured me just by being here. Spending time with my friends. So, I’m perfecto,” she whispered.

Jesus fucking Christ, this woman.

I chuckled, running my hands through her hair, and I winked. “Perfecta, mi amor. Now? It’s time to get you home, and naked in my bed, cariño,” I growled into her ear.

Sorcha

The alarm was so damned loud, and I huddled into Enzo’s muscular chest with an irritated groan. My writer had kept me awake most of the night, and I had never felt so bloody satisfied in my entire life. My body felt like jelly, and my muscles were screaming, but it was totally worth it.

Mr. Enzo Fuentes was a bloody sex god.

“It’s too early,” I grumbled.

“Buenos días, mi amor,” he drawled, hands roaming over my arse, then up my spine.

It was so sexy hearing him speaking his native language, and my body enjoyed it too. I ran my own hand over his abs, then lower, and his talented dick was standing to attention.

“Oh hello,” I purred.

I took a hold of his hard shaft, making him hiss, and I looked up into Enzo’s beautiful dark brown eyes.

“Fuck,” he gasped.

“You’re very pleased to see me,” I purred.

CHAPTER 34

Sorcha

“Holy crap, you bad girl,” he said, hand running through my messy hair.

Enzo had given me orgasm after orgasm last night, and into the early hours of the morning. He’d not once wanted the attention on him, so I began a trail of kisses downwards. Over his chiselled abs, down his tempting V-line, and my tongue darted out, licking the pre-cum from his tip.

“Oh my fucking god, cariño.”

“You like that?” I purred. “How about this?”

I kissed each side of his magnificent dick, then covered him with my mouth, taking him all the way to the back of my throat. Enzo was huge, so I tried my best to accommodate him, taking in as much as I could, and I started to suck, swirl, and lick his shaft enthusiastically.

“cariño,” he moaned, his hands now in my hair.

He suddenly bucked his hips, making me gag, eyes now watering, but I wanted to give him the same pleasure he’d showered on me. I didn’t stop, and he started to fuck my mouth, saliva dripping onto the tight curls surrounding his dick.

“Yes, cariño, fuck,” he croaked, and thrust faster, chasing his release.

I simply relaxed as much as I could until he cried out, the taste of his cum hitting my tongue, and I swallowed all of him greedily. I kept lazily sucking, swirling my tongue around his now semi hard dick for a few more moments as he slowly relaxed back into the mattress.

I trailed kisses upwards, running my tongue along his defined muscles, causing a very sinful moan to come out of my sexy writer.

“Get up here, you bad girl,” he growled.

I was tugged on top of his body, then he covered my mouth with his, kissing me possessively, and I melted instantly. I sighed into his lips as he caressed my naked curves.

“That was a very delicious surprise, mi amor,” he growled into my ear.

“I hope you enjoyed it,” I giggled.

His hand landed on my bare arse, smacking it with a loud thwack. I yelped in shock, but it seemed that my body enjoyed the sting, as my pussy fluttered like a needy slut.

“You like that?” he drawled, and did it again. “Do you enjoy a good spanking?”

My cheeks flushed, and I buried my face into the crook of his neck, giggling again. “Didn’t know until now,” I admitted.

“I love you, you naughty little minx,” he said, crushing me in his arms. “But, we have a convention to go to.”

The nerves flickered to life, as we both knew that Ethan would be there. Enzo must have felt my body tense, as he gently roamed his hands over my spine, then squeezed my butt.

“I’ll be right there with you, cariño. You won’t have to deal with him,” he whispered. “Now, let’s shower.”

I kissed him again, then we both reluctantly climbed out of bed. As he turned the water on, Enzo fixed his eyes on mine. He eased me into his arms, nuzzling my neck with his nose.

“A part of me doesn’t want to get clean.”

“Why?”

“Because I smell of you. My cock smells of your pussy, and talented mouth,” and I bit down on my bottom lip, as my body went feral.

“Fucking hell, Enzo,” I gasped.

“Sí, mi amor?”

“Hot mess alert, you bloody devil.”

“And that is exactly how I like you,” he purred into my ear. “Hot, wet, and all fucking mine.”

I was yanked under the jet of water, and kissed as though he wanted to steal every ounce of air from me. We washed, and I was treated to a very welcome massage. Afterwards, I was driven back to my flat to pack a few things, including that very glamorous evening gown.

“You realise that your apartment resembles a real messy library?” Enzo drawled.

“You know I adore reading.”

“Sure, but that book shelf looks as though it might collapse at any moment.”

I scoffed as I dragged him into my bedroom. I grabbed my rather tired looking suitcase, and started to fill it with changes of underwear, some smart casual dresses, shoes, and layers. I glanced at Mr sexy writer, and he was perusing my immense array of books.

“And more books, mi amor. What is this one?... It’s about a priest?”

“What?” I gasped, and I whirled around to find a very spicy book in Enzo’s hand.

I was in front of him in a flash, trying to swipe the book from his hand. He let out a very filthy laugh, then held it up high, so my petite self couldn’t possibly reach it.

“Give it back, Enzo,” I snapped, cheeks burning.

“Ah, you need to finish packing, my naughty little bookworm. And I want to know why you are blushing so adorably?” he questioned.

I stamped my foot, hissing at him. I slapped his chest, but he yanked me into him, kissing me.

“This is a smutty book isn’t it, cariño?”

“And what if it was?”

“Finish packing, and never be ashamed of your choice of reading.”

He slapped my butt with a very enticing wink, then started to flick through the pages. I couldn’t turn away as he stopped on one page, then started to chuckle mirthlessly. I knew exactly which part he’d found, and I let out an annoyed sigh, and stalked back to my suitcase.

“This is very un-catholic of a priest,” he drawled.

“Very funny.”

“And you have a side I want to know more about,” he fired back.

He put the book back, eyes scanning more of the titles in my spicy section. I rolled my eyes, and threw more clothes into my case. Yes, I loved a great spicy read, but I loved crime thrillers, mysteries, and romantic comedies too.

“So, spicy Sorcha. Would you like me to do some naughty things to you?” Enzo asked.

My hand stilled in midair, toiletries bag gripped between my fingers. Every nerve was suddenly on fire, dirty images flooding my brain. My cheeks burned harder, but I turned to look at him, and the book in his hand? It had some very filthy scenes inside.

“What?” I asked.

“Would you like a little book boyfriend experience, my little minx?”

My heart was racing, body suddenly going crazy, as I thought about all the dirty things I’d read in the pages of some of my books. And the sheer idea of Enzo doing some of it with me?

Holy fucking shit, lady… yes bloody please.

As I was about to answer, I heard my phone sing from the living room. I dropped my toiletries bag into my case, waltzed over to Enzo, and he grinned, kissing me briefly.

“Go, cariño. I’ll make us a swift coffee,” and he popped the book back onto my shelf, a very wicked twinkle sparkling in his eyes.

He leaned down, and pecked my lips, then we headed back to the living room. I grabbed my phone, and opened up my messages. My eyes scanned the text, and an icy shiver shot up my spine.

“cariño? Who is it?” called Enzo.

“Ethan,” was all I responded with, and I wanted to throw my phone across the room.

Enzo

The rage was instant at the mention of his name. I gently placed the carton of milk onto the kitchen counter, then turned to see a very tense girlfriend. I noticed how she was gripping her phone, and I didn’t hesitate. I strode over, pulling her into my arms, easing the phone from her hand.

“Can I read it?”

“Yes,” she replied.

My gaze dropped, and all the air was sucked from my lungs as I read Ethan fucking Snow’s message to my damned lady. I leaned down and kissed Sorcha’s temple, then released her.

“Finish making our coffee?” I asked.

“Okay. What are you going to do?”

“Call in reinforcements,” I replied.

I watched her go into the kitchen, then I looked back down, rereading the fucking slimy piece of crap’s words again.

‘Sorcha. I’m guessing that you must be too busy to reply. Very naughty of you. Now, I know you’re always at the writers convention. I’ll be there too this year, so I secured you a room right across the hall from mine. I’d love to reconnect while Enzo is off charming all the beautiful women. I don’t want you to feel lonely, and left out, you cute little button. I remember how well you did between the sheets. I’ll be happy to keep you company. See you this afternoon. Ethan x.’

There was no way in fucking hell that he would get his filthy hands on my little bookworm. No fucking way he would entertain any notion of reconnecting. I would break more than his damned nose.

I turned to gaze over at my tense girlfriend, then pulled out my own phone. I walked into the kitchen, and I pecked her temple. Sorcha looked up at me, and I noticed the anger and worry behind those divine eyes.

“Why reinforcements, Enzo?” she asked.

“Prepare to make another coffee. Two sugars, lots of milk. And don’t worry,” I assured her.

“Why? What are you going to do?”

“You’ll see,” and I winked with a loving smile.

I went to the window in the front room, placing Sorcha’s phone onto the windowsill. I found his number, then pressed the green icon.

“Hello stranger,” drawled Madden Blaine.

“Hola, Blaine. You busy?”

“Just leaving the gym. Why?”

“I need you to get over to this address. I want you to meet my lady, before we go to the convention,” I asked.

“That sounds fun. Send it to me. What else? I can tell there’s something bugging you?”

“Ethan fucking Snow is what’s wrong.”

“What the hell has that arrogant, talentless little fucker done now?”

“Get over here, and I’ll fill you in.”

“Sure thing. Text me the address, and I’ll see you soon,” and he disappeared.

I helped Sorcha finish packing, and her bags were now sitting beside mine in the boot of my car. She had made a fresh coffee for the two of us, including one for my best friend. The knock was loud, and I kissed Sorcha swiftly, then went to her front door.

“Alright, you sexy fucker,” Madden drawled. “Where’s your lady?”

“Very funny. Come on in,” I said, gesturing for him to enter.

He smacked me lightly on the shoulder, then stopped short as Sorcha appeared from around the corner, and he whistled.

“Well, hello beautiful,” he purred.

“Off fucking limits, you slut,” I growled, and he let out a very dirty laugh.

“Don’t have a heart attack, Fuentes. Hi, Sorcha. Madden…” but she cut him off.

“Blaine. You enjoy getting into trouble together,” she said, shaking his outstretched hand. “Why are you here?”

I walked to her, wrapping my arm around her waist. I leaned down and kissed those soft lips, then turned my attention to my flirty friend.

“Ethan Snow, Madden. That fucker is at it again.”

“What’s that shit stain done now?”

“Mi amor, show him the messages,” I said.

She plucked out her phone, found her voicemail, then handed it over to my best friend. We each watched as he silently read the texts, and listened, then handed her phone back.

“That bastard is up to something, and I don’t fucking like it one bit,” I said, and Madden simply nodded. “A fucking room opposite his own? He’s heading for another broken nose.”

“And that’s why you need me?”

“Yeah. You willing to help?”

CHAPTER 35

Madden

Sorcha Barnes was such a beautiful woman. Petite, with dark brown eyes. Her hair was the same shade, and a very delicious, curvy frame. Holy shit, Enzo was a lucky son of a bitch, but I remembered Ethan Snow. Enzo had broken the little fucker’s nose a fair few years ago for forcing himself on one of my best friends dates.

I read the messages, and Sorcha played me the two voicemails. This cocky shit needed more than a broken face. I sat with a perfect coffee, then fixed my eyes on the two of them. Enzo was smitten with Miss Barnes. And I didn’t blame him. I was a tad jealous, if I was truly honest.

“What’s the plan?” I asked. “And this is the best coffee, pretty eyes.”

“Thanks, and stop flirting, Madden. I’m with Enzo,” she replied, snuggling into him.

I grinned and winked at her, but held up my hand. It was one thing I would never do. Screw over my best friend. Enzo had always been there for me through all of the shit I’d been through, and I loved him for that.

“So, Ethan’s up to his usual slimy tricks?” I asked.

“He’s trying to get to Enzo through me, I think,” Sorcha replied.

“Oh?”

“I had a relationship… He wasn’t so bad back then,” she said, and I noticed the reddening of her cheeks, but her eyes were filled with shame.

“Ah, don’t do that, pretty eyes. You’re in the presence of two renowned fuckwits when it comes to stupid mistakes,” I said.

“Very fucking funny, prick,” Enzo fired at me, but Miss Sorcha Barnes let loose a very cute giggle.

The knock rang out, and we all looked at the front door, then Sorcha was on her feet. She flung it open.

Holy fucking shit.

The woman on the other side had my heart skipping more than a few damned beats.

A dark auburn haired beauty, with freckles across her cheeks, curvy hourglass figure. Like Marilyn Monroe, and the most stunning eyes I’d ever had the pleasure of gazing into. Light green. I shot to my feet, hands flying through my hair, palms suddenly sweating.

“Moira?” Sorcha exclaimed. “How come you’re here?”

“I came to give you a convention goody bag,” she replied.

“You got a taxi here?”

“Yep. There’s a couple of things in there for you and Enzo,” she purred, then those eyes found mine. “Fuck. You’re Madden Blaine.”

I grinned instantly as this delectable beauty waltzed inside, handing Miss Barnes a gift bag. She stopped right in front of me, raking her eyes up and down my body, and it felt fucking awesome.

“I am, and you’re Moira? You here for backup too?” I asked.

“Backup?” she questioned, and her head turned to look over at Enzo’s lady.

“Kitchen. Now,” Miss Barnes yelped.

Sorcha took the delectable Moira’s hand, leading her away from my sight. I openly stared at her retreating figure. Her sexy, delicious…

The smack caught my attention, and I brought my gaze back to my best friend. He was smirking knowingly at me, so I rolled my eyes, trying to hide the excitement in my face.

“Don’t you dare fuck her then ghost that one, Blaine. I’ll fucking smack you so damned hard.” he fired at me.

“Oh, that won’t happen. I think I’ve just met my future wife,” I stated.

“Excuse me?”

I whirled around to find Miss Moira glaring at me. I shoved my hands into my trouser pockets, and grinned.

“You’re my future wife. That’s what I said, pretty eyes.”

“Oh, I am, am I, Mr. Madden, can’t keep it in my pants, Blaine?” and she crossed her arms over her ample chest.

And holy fucking shit… I was in so much delicious trouble.

“That’s a fact, sexy lady,” I drawled.

She simply rolled her eyes, stalked over to me, then punched me hard on the shoulder. I couldn’t help but chuckle at this feisty woman, and it seemed to annoy her further.

“Keep bloody dreaming,” she fired, but her cheeks turned a very delectable pink, giving her away. “Now, Ethan slimy fucker Snow? What the hell is he doing calling my girl?” she questioned.

I ruffled my hair, trying to adjust my hard cock, and focusing on the matter at hand. I finished my coffee and Miss Sorcha Barnes pressed the call icon on her phone, then played the voicemails again, on speaker.

“What the fuck is he playing at?” Moira hissed, once we had listened to them.

Enzo gestured for her, and Sorcha didn’t hesitate. She fit snugly in his arms. They made such a beautiful couple, and that bastard was trying to ruin it. No fucking way would I allow Snow to hurt my best friend and his little lady.

“He’s booked her a room across from his own, the fucker,” Enzo snapped.

“And that is not bloody happening. I remember the state of Sorcha when she first came into the office. That cheating scumbag broke her,” Moira fired.

I took a seat on the sofa, and silently beamed as Moira took the spot next to me. Sorcha looked both worried, hurt and angry, but I knew Enzo would do everything in his power to keep her safe. I could see the way he felt about her written all over his face.

“So, what’s the plan?” I asked.

“Keep tabs on him, and make sure he never gets close to Sorcha,” Enzo stated.

“That’s too much to ask, Enzo,” she exclaimed.

“No, mi amor. I can’t allow that piece of shit to even breathe on you,” Enzo replied.

I watched my best friend as he ran his fingers through Miss Barnes’ luscious locks, and an idea popped into my head. I knew it was a very risky move, but I voiced it anyway. I glanced at the sexy lady beside me, and winked.

“I have a plus one empty. Moira could fill that, then Sorcha has her best friend there as well?”

“Excuse me?” she fired at me.

Enzo glared at me, but Sorcha suddenly perked up a little. I ruffled my hair again, holding up a hand in surrender, then gave Moira my best smile.

“Hear me out, sexy lady,” I drawled.

“Stop flirting with me,” she hissed, making my cock twitch. “But explain?”

I tried to ignore how stunning she looked as she fixed those hypnotic green eyes on mine. Their colour reminded me of springtime, when the new leaves on the trees were just appearing, and I wanted to drown in them.

“Okay, beautiful. No flirting, and I don’t mean in the same room, Moira. You simply accompany me as a friend, and we can work together to keep that shit away from your best friend. No strings,” I explained.

She stared at me, those eyes dilating a little, then Sorcha spoke up. “Please come, Moira? It’s just the weekend, and having you there would be so comforting?” she pleaded.

“And you have my word that I won’t try anything. That’s unless you wanted me to?” I drawled, settling back against the sofa cushions.

She slapped my thigh, but I noticed the sparkle in her eyes before she turned away from me. Moira enjoyed me, and that got my heart racing.

“I guess it couldn’t hurt? As the publishing house is closed for the convention. But I need to pack some things?” she said.

I took my chance, jumping to my feet, and I patted Enzo’s shoulder. “I can take Moira to her place, then we’ll drive to the convention, and meet you at the hotel bar?” I suggested.

“What? But I hardly know you,” Moira exclaimed.

“Don’t worry, beautiful. I’m not going to jump on you,” I grumbled.

Moira stood, rolling her eyes, but I couldn’t help my own, and I soaked up her curvaceous frame, earning me a groan from Enzo. Moira stood to her full height, and she was only a few inches smaller than my six one. Her arms were crossed over her chest, and her eyes studied mine.

“Thank you, Moira,” Sorcha said, grabbing her attention.

“I’m doing it for you, Sorcha. No-one else,” she replied, and glanced at me.

They hugged, then Enzo touched my shoulder, squeezing. “I can see it. Don’t fuck it up, and you might finally get your happy ending, Blaine,” he whispered.

“Thanks, Fuentes. I’ll woo the fuck out of her, because I can’t walk away from this sexy woman,” I replied quietly, with a cheeky wink.

“We’ll see you at the hotel,” Enzo said, then I held out my arm for Moira.

She rolled her eyes, picked up her bag, and marched past me towards the front door. “Love you, you sexy witch,” she called, then waltzed from the apartment.

I simply chuckled, and turned to look at Enzo and Sorcha. “This is going to be way more fun than I was expecting,” I drawled.

“Behave, Madden,” Sorcha warned. “Moira’s my best friend.”

“Oh, I’ll be on my best behaviour, Miss Barnes. You have my word,” I replied. “And don’t worry about that tiny dicked ass hat.”

“Thank you,” she said.

“No worries. Fuentes. I’m happy for you, and I’ll see you both at the convention,” then I strode from the apartment, and towards my car, where my future was waiting.

Moira

Madden bloody Blaine.

Madden fucking Blaine, lady… Major bloody crush.

The sexiest man on the entire freaking planet, and he had been flirting with me.

What bloody universe had I fallen into? Since when did a tall, dark-haired sex god flirt with little old me?

I was tall, with an hourglass figure. A red-head with freckles, and I wouldn’t really call myself beautiful. I was also larger. A size sixteen, yet I watched as Madden Blaine strode towards me. He was decked out in a dark grey suit and white shirt, looking like one of those hot guys in perfume ads. The top two buttons were undone, giving me a very tempting view of skin.

My body was on fire, pussy fluttering as his sexy mouth curled up into the most devilish, sinful smile I’d ever seen. I had to bite down on my bottom lip, turning away from him, trying to hide the obvious blush creeping up my cheeks.

“So, beautiful? Shall we?” he drawled, opening the passenger door for me.

“I know your reputation, Blaine,” I stated, as I slid inside onto the cool leather seat.

“I understand that,” he replied.

I watched him walk around to the driver’s side, and I couldn’t help but soak up his hot body. Madden was built like a thoroughbred race horse. Filthy images popped into my head, and I silently cursed, fidgeting where I sat. Once we were belted safely in, Madden started the car, and I gave him my address. The car moved off, and we stayed silent for a short time. Then my brain failed me in typical ‘Moira’ fashion.

“You think I’m beautiful?” came out of me, and I groaned. “Shit.”

I fixed my eyes onto the scenery moving past my window, not daring to look into those dark brown eyes.

“You are, Moira. But you told me to stop flirting.”

My head whipped around, and I stared right at the very famous womaniser. His reputation was even worse than Enzo Fuentes, but hell, I had crushed on this guy for as long as I could remember.

“And just like that, you do?” I fired at him.

What the hell was I doing? I didn’t flirt with guys so openly, and I was also very surprised to be annoyed at him. Annoyed that he had ceased flirting with me.

“Interesting,” he said after a few moments.

“How? Take the next left.”

“You were swift to tell me to stop. Now, you’re annoyed that I have?”

“Ha ha.”

“Which number? And I can flirt if you want me to, Moira?”

“Six. And that’s not what I meant,” I fired.

He chuckled as he pulled up outside of a small end terrace. Turning in his seat, once the engine was off, he fixed those stunning eyes onto mine.

“So? Which is it? Flirt or not?” he asked.

CHAPTER 36

Moira

Irolled my eyes, then climbed out of the car, rummaging in my bag for my house keys. “Bloody child,” I muttered.

“Confusing female,” he shot back.

“What?”

“You heard me. Women are confusing.”

I glared at him as he strolled over to my door, smirking as he did. He leaned against the wall, watching me stalk towards him. I rammed my key into the lock, and I allowed the famous author into my little house. I went straight to the kitchen, dropping my bag onto the counter, then started for the stairs.

“You have any juice?” called Madden.

“In the fridge. Glasses in the top cupboard above the toaster,” I called back.

I paused for a moment, wondering what the hell I was doing. Sorcha was my best friend, and I remember how broken she was when she first started working there. It took her a few weeks before she opened up. Harrison was hired a couple of days later, and he made her a coffee, and handed both of us a chocolate muffin. Instant friendship. After a couple of weeks, Sorcha finally opened up to us, then she told us about Ethan fucking Snow.

I went to my bed, dropped to my knees, and retrieved my suitcase from underneath. I deposited it onto the bed, then walked to my wardrobe, staring at my clothes. It suddenly dawned on me that I had no idea what to take.

“Need some help?” came his deep, sensually sexy voice.

I spun around in surprise, and a small squeak fell from me at the sight before me. Madden Blaine was leaning against the frame of my door, hands in his trouser pockets, one ankle crossed over the other.

Holy crap. Real life book boyfriend alert… Melting hot mess.

“Jesus fucking christ, man. Don’t sneak up on a woman like that. I might’ve punched you,” I hissed.

He arched his brows, as that pussy melting smile reappeared, and I glared at him, trying to slow my racing heart.

“Punched?”

“Yes. I took self defence classes,” I replied.

“Why?”

“I was picked on at school. Red hair. Freckles, and I’ve been… big for as long as I can remember. I was an easy target at school,” I replied. “Not that you’d understand.”

He pushed from his leaning spot, but didn’t cross the threshold, which surprised me. It also caused a very giddy army of butterflies to go bloody nuts in my stomach.

“And why not?” he questioned.

“Look at you. You were probably a popular kid, Madden.”

“Ah, well, not all is always as it seems, pretty eyes. And noted about sneaking up on you. Now, you’ll need some fancy evening wear, smart casual for this afternoon. And some sensible shoes for tomorrow, during the signing. Will you sit with me at my table? I’m right next to Enzo’s this year,” he said, stepping back onto the landing.

I had to smirk at the sex god, as he seemed to look a little uncomfortable. I nodded, and turned back to my wardrobe, silently screaming with joy.

“At your table?” I asked, sifting through clothes.

“Sure. Only if you want to?”

I tilted my head, glancing back at the writer, and his eyes were literally on my ass. Shit. Madden Blaine was staring at my fat ass… I liked it.

“Just as a friend?” I questioned.

“At your request,” he replied.

“Fine.”

“Okay.”

“Thanks for the help.”

“I’ll wait downstairs,” and he disappeared as quickly as he’d appeared.

Madden

Self defence classes, sassy attitude, and that twinkle in her beautiful green eyes. She found me attractive, and that caused a very unfamiliar tornado to erupt in my gut. My heart had skipped more than a few beats at the sight of her in her bedroom.

I fired off a message to Enzo, suggesting that he invite Raya and Abbi too, then I knocked the orange juice back and waited. Moira had a very lovely home. Neat. Tidy, yet it felt very lived in. I wandered into her living room, and took in the pictures on the mantelpiece. Friends, family, and Moira had been the owner of a black cat, once upon a time.

Magazines on the coffee table, along with a stack of novels. I arched my brow when I noticed the name on the spines of four of them. My latest release was on top, followed by three more of the series, and I grinned like a Cheshire cat.

“Snooping around?”

“Shit,” I whispered, turning around.

She’d changed into a very flattering trouser suit in red. A white shirt under her jacket, and a pair of red wedge shoes. She looked like dessert.

“You caught me,” I replied. “Arrest me.”

“Very funny. Does this pass?” she asked, holding out her arms.

“Very much so, Moira. Are you ready to go? As we have to be there to sign in at two.”

She nodded glancing down at an actual wrist watch, then she took a few steps closer, making me suddenly very aware of my cock, heat growing deep inside my belly. I was in serious, divine trouble with this sexy lady.

“Packed and ready. My evening dress is a simple little black number. Hope that’s good enough for such bloody short notice,” she pointed out.

I had to grin, then my hand flew through my hair, as she watched me with an attractive fire behind her eyes. I walked over, taking a deep breath. I wanted this woman. Not just for a quick fuck.

Oh no. I wanted to keep Moira St. James forever.

I leaned into her ear, as I came to a stop beside her. I noticed her tense, as my breath ghosted her neck. Then I said it.

“I think you are such a sexy lady, and I’m not sure how long I can hold off from flirting with you. But, for now? I’ll be the perfect gentleman. Well, after this,” and I smacked her ass, making her yelp, as the thwack echoed around the room.

“Hey,” she hissed, and whirled around, shoving my shoulder. “Wait, what?”

“You heard me, beautiful. I fancy the bloody knickers off you,” I replied, then waltzed into the hallway, collecting her suitcase, and waiting by the door.

Enzo

Sorcha was quiet as we prepared to leave. I hated that the snake that was Snow still did this to her. I’d taken Madden’s advice, and organised rooms for both Moira, Raya and Abbi. Now, I placed her case next to mine in the back of the car, then I reached into the small side pocket of my own bag, pulling out a little black box. Sorcha was locking up, so I closed the trunk, then turned to my beautiful lady.

“What’s up?” she asked, as she walked over to me, and into my outstretched arms.

“I don’t like the darkness in your eyes, cariño,” I whispered, kissing her neck tenderly.

“And I fucking hate that Ethan is going to be at the convention,” she replied with a sad sigh.

I eased her back a little, then cupped her cheeks with my hands. I kissed her swiftly, then reached back into my jacket pocket.

“I want to give you something. But, don’t panic, mi amor. I’ll be giving you that in the near future,” I whispered.

She frowned at me in confusion, and stepped back a little further, then I held up the little box. Her gaze dropped, and a small, very adorable gasp came out of my lady.

“Fuck,” she croaked. “Wait. This is an eternity ring. Right?”

I chuckled, removing the ring from its resting place. “Yes, cariño. And I want you to wear it for me.”

“Shit, Enzo. It’s the same as your ring.”

“Sí, cariño. But I’m hoping to swap this one for something more… permanent in future,” and I winked with a cheeky grin.

Sorcha’s face finally lit up, but my heart went fucking crazy as she lifted her left hand. I arched my brows with a beaming smile, then slipped the ring onto her wedding finger. It was a white gold band of celtic design, matching the one I wore. I needed the world to know that we were a couple now. I also wanted a certain scheming fucker to know that my Sorcha was off fucking limits.

“This tells the world that you belong to me, and I belong to you, mi amor.”

“And Ethan too. It tells him to leave me the fuck alone,” she said, and I had to kiss her.

It was a greedy, passionate onslaught, and we only parted to come up for air. She pressed herself into my body for a swift hug, then we climbed into the car, and started towards this year's writers convention.

It took a good two hours to get there, but Sorcha was reading one of the proofs, pencil being chewed in between her teeth. I noticed her glancing at the ring sitting on her finger, twirling it around. I touched her thigh every so often, and she would graze the back of my hand with her fingers, throwing me a warm smile.

Heart full.

We eventually arrived at the hotel, and I found my designated parking spot, then turned to grin at my lady. Sorcha was putting away her manuscript, and gathering her things together.

“What’s the plan?” she asked.

“We have to be back in the main hall for dinner at four,” I replied.

Sorcha glanced at the digital clock on my dash, then sighed. “Okay. Not much time to chill out then?”

“Sorry, cariño. Let’s go check in,” and I jumped from the car, then walked to the passenger door, helping out my lady.

I grabbed our cases, then ushered Sorcha into the lobby of the hotel. At the reception desk, I wrapped my arm possessively around her waist, kissing her lips lovingly.

“Enzo Fuentes and Sorcha Barnes,” I stated.

“Good afternoon Mr Fuentes, Miss Barnes. Here you go. This is your keycard, Mr. Fuentes. Yours is on the second floor, Miss Barnes.

I froze for a moment as two separate cards were slid across. I placed my finger on top of the one in front of Sorcha, and slid it back towards the young man.

“Miss Barnes is my girlfriend. She stays with me. My room is a suite, yes?” I questioned, trying to keep the rage from exploding.

“Yes sir, but Mr. Snow gave specific instructions to make sure Miss Barnes’ room is close to his own,” he replied.

I raked an angry hand over my face, then gritted my teeth together before taking a deep breath. I placed my palms onto the desk, then smiled at the young guy.

“Sorcha is staying in my damned room. Cancel the other, and add her name to my booking. Please,” I said.

Sorcha was tense beside me, eyes darting around the busy lobby, but I took her hand in mine, and squeezed it reassuringly.

“But, Mr. Snow is the organiser, and he gave specific instructions…” but I interrupted him.

“Snow will answer to me after this fuck up. And so will this damned hotel if you don’t do as I say. Do you understand me?”

CHAPTER 37

Enzo

“Yes sir,” he replied, and took the spare keycard, tapping on the screen. “All changed over, Mr. Fuentes.”

Sorcha snuggled closer to me, and her presence calmed me. I stood up tall, nodded to the young guy, then kissed my little bookworm’s temple.

“What’s your name?” I asked him.

“Alfie, sir.”

“I’m sorry for my… tone, Alfie.”

“It’s totally fine, Mr. Fuentes. Apologies for the mix up.”

“If you get any backlash from Snow? You tell me, okay Alfie?”

“Oh, yes Sir. Thank you.”

I gave him a friendly smack on the shoulder, then took our cases, and gestured for Sorcha to follow.

“Stay close to me, cariño,” I whispered.

We made our way across the busy lobby towards the lifts. Sorcha had the keycard in her hand, then my name echoed across the room, halting our steps.

“Fuentes.”

We both turned to see Madden and Moira, and I instantly relaxed. They made their way through the bustling crowds, and the two ladies hugged tightly.

“The son of a bitch definitely booked Sorcha a separate room. That wasn’t a fucking joke, Madden,” I growled angrily.

“We were hiding in the bar. Snow was sitting behind us, and he was bragging about stealing a girl from you,” my best friend whispered.

“What?”

“Yeah. Go to your room, then we’ll meet back in the bar in about half an hour. Because there’s more,” then he kissed Sorcha on the cheek, and ushered Moira to the stairs.

Yes. Madden Blaine didn’t use elevators. He hated those things. The doors pinged, and we stepped inside, but I saw him as we turned. Just as the doors closed. Snow was staring right at us, and the look in his eyes was filled with pure fucking hatred.

“Why is he doing this?” Sorcha asked, her own eyes fixed on the closed doors.

“I don’t know, cariño. But I think it might have to do with the fact that I once punched him, and he wants to hurt me by taking you away from me,” I replied.

Sorcha suddenly shoved me backwards against the wall of the elevator, and I stared down at my beautiful little lady in surprise.

“And do you really think that? Think that I would leave you for that cheating fucking bastard?” she questioned.

I raked a hand over my face, as I had to admit that I was suddenly fucking terrified of losing this beautiful, sexy woman.

“I don’t want to lose you, Sorcha. I’ve never loved anyone the way that I love you.”

“You’re talking as though you don’t deserve to love me?”

“I don’t. The way I’ve behaved over the years? How did I suddenly get to have you?” fell from me, as all my insecurities exploded.

Sorcha suddenly hissed at me, slapping my chest hard. She grabbed a hold of my face, rose up on her toes, and kissed me. It was possessive, rough, and I melted instantly, wrapping my arms around her.

“Listen to me, you fucking doughnut. Stop it. You told me the same bloody thing when I said that about myself. I thought I was plain, not pretty enough to be with you. Jesus, I thought I was out of your league, Fuentes. Then you go and do the same thing. I fucking love you, you bloody gorgeous idiot,” she fired at me.

I stared down at her for a few charged moments, as those three important words slammed into me all at once. I felt as though I’d been hit by cupid’s fucking burning arrow.

“What?” I stammered, heart threatening to implode.

“What?” she repeated.

“You love me?”

Sorcha blinked, then her cheeks turned that sexy, adorable pink again. Shit, I loved it when she blushed. She bit down on her bottom lip, chewing it furiously.

“I, well, yes,” she said. “I do. I love you, Enzo.”

“Holy fucking shit, mi amor. Say it again,” I demanded.

Sorcha pressed herself against me, hands on my chest, and she looked right into my eyes, gaze unwavering.

“Enzo bloody Fuentes, I love you,” she repeated.

“Mierda,” I simply groaned, and I hoisted her from the floor, kissing the air from her lungs.

Madden

Moira dropped her case in my damned room. It was a suite with two separate bedrooms, each with ensuite bathrooms. Her eyes darted around the huge space, then she headed to one of the doors.

“I’ll have this bedroom,” she announced.

“You sure? There’s a very similar suite next door?” I questioned.

“Why not? I can trust you can’t I?” she purred.

“Jesus, woman. Are you going to tease me?” I groaned.

Moira laughed, and it was a very dirty sound, causing my cock to twitch all over again. I glared at her, remembering the brief conversation in the car…

“Why are you being nice, Madden? You have one hell of a rep with women?”

“The person you see in the public eye? He’s my alter ego. I have issues, beautiful.”

“Those being?”

“I had two rich parents, Moira. I didn’t want for anything. Except love. I was a very lonely kid. I had nannies, and they were great, but I didn’t have what I desperately wished for. Two loving parents.”

“So, the issues? You went in search of love?”

“Yes. Unfortunately, I didn’t know how to…”

“You didn’t know how love worked, did you?”

“No. Bang on the money, Moira. So, I picked the wrong women. I tried to adult, and they took me for granted. Used me for my money, then broke me into fucking pieces, time and time again.”

“Wow. That’s pretty shitty, Madden. But, it also makes a lot of sense.”...

She walked over to where I was standing, and she smacked my arm lightly, a huge smile on her face. I was officially addicted to this stunning human, and I didn’t ever want to live without her in my life ever again.

“I’m not teasing, but I like you, Blaine. Yes, you’re hot, and yes, you have a terrible reputation, but I’m rather looking forward to watching you try your best not to flirt with me,” she fired, then she kissed my cheek, and winked.

I couldn’t think of anything to say as she vanished into the bedroom, and I took my own bags into the other in some sort of daze. Moira liked me, and that had my heart going fucking crazy. Whatever happened this weekend? I knew one thing. Moira was meant for me. And I didn’t care how long it took. She was my one.

Sorcha

The room wasn’t just a king room, it was a bloody huge apartment. A living room, two bedrooms with ensuites, and a small kitchen area with a microwave, small fridge, kettle. The complimentary tea tray was filled with fancy teas, coffees, numerous types of biscuits, and a small selection of alcohol.

“This has whiskey, vodka, and prosecco, Enzo,” I called out.

“Get in here,” he called back.

I smirked as I took two prosecco bottles, then walked towards one of the bedrooms. The first was empty, so I waltzed over to the other, and I snorted at the sight that greeted me. Enzo was completely naked, laid on his back, ankles crossed. His hands were behind his head, but my eyes fell to his huge dick, standing to attention.

“What the fuck, Fuentes?” I exclaimed, a huge grin appearing on my face.

“Get your sexy little ass over here, mi amor. I want to fuck my girlfriend,” he drawled.

I put down the bottles, then took a couple of steps towards the bed, my body suddenly feral for my writer.

“Do we have time, handsome?” I purred, slipping off my shoes.

“Oh, I’m making time for the woman who loves me. So get you cute little ass over here.”

He sat up, swinging his legs over the side of the bed. I took another couple of steps closer, then he was on his feet, closing the gap. He moved like lightning, flinging me over his shoulder, then throwing me onto the bed.

“Holy fuck,” I squealed, falling into excited laughter.

“You want me to fuck you like your filthy book boyfriends, mi amor?” he growled, grabbing a hold of my ankles, yanking me down the bed.

“God, yes please… oh shit,” and he swiftly dragged my knickers down my legs, throwing them onto the floor.

He tugged my dress upwards, and a sexy growl fell out of him. He began kissing a trail up the inside of my thigh. The most needy, slutty moan escaped my own mouth, then his face appeared above mine.

“Are you wet for me, you dirty girl?”

“Yes, Enzo,” I moaned, his fingers suddenly slipping inside me.

“Call me Daddy,” he ordered, fucking me enthusiastically.

“Oh shit,” I gasped, bucking into the movements of his hand. “Yes… Daddy.”

The feeling of his talented fingers inside me? The weight of his naked body pinning me down? And Daddy? I had never felt so alive, and turned on in my whole bloody life.

“Come for me, cariño,” he growled into my ear. “Come for your daddy.”

“Oh my god,” I moaned.

The way he was pleasuring me, and the way he’d said ‘daddy’ caused my climax to come racing to the surface, and my body began to tremble, hands in his hair.

“That’s it. Good girl. Come. Now,” he ordered.

And I did… Spectacularly. Like never before.

“Fuck,” was all I managed.

Enzo didn’t hesitate, not allowing me a moment to recover. I was flipped onto my stomach, then Enzo bloody, sexy ass, Fuentes, smacked my bare ass cheek, causing the most delicious sting to bloom on my skin.

“Hands and knees, mi amor,” he ordered.

My brain and body were still reeling from the most powerful orgasm of my life, so I did as he asked without hesitation. He grabbed my ponytail in his hand, holding on tightly, and I felt the tip of his dick teasing my clit. I moaned again, loving every second of this.

“Hold on tight, my beautiful, filthy, bad girl,” he growled.

He thrust his hips forward, his cock slamming deep inside of my pussy, and I cried out at the heady sensations that flew through my body.

“Yes, god, daddy,” fell from me.

“Sí, mi amor. I am your fucking daddy,” he said, his voice, so deep, and sexy as hell.

I moaned happily, then I was railed roughly, hungrily. His grunts, my gasps, and the sound of his hips hitting my ass echoed around us, but I cried out as his finger found my clit, and it was almost immediate.

“Fuckfuckfuck, yes,” I gasped.

“That’s it, cariño. Squeeze my cock good and hard,” he ordered. “Come for your daddy.”

“Yes… yesssss, daddy, oh…god,” I cried.

My pussy clamped down on Enzo’s dick, as I arched my back, coming once more, turning my entire body into jelly.

“Holy shit, cariño,” Enzo croaked, then he began pistoning his dick into me roughly, chasing his own climax.

In only a few hard thrusts, he moaned loudly, and he exploded, grinding his hips against me, one hand running over my spine, and ass.

“Fucking hell,” he panted into my ear. “Ti amo, cariño.”

He pulled out and I instantly turned over, then I cupped his face in my hands. “And I love you too, Daddy,” I purred.

“Mierda,” he said, then I was pinned by his muscular body, and kissed as though our lives depended on it.

CHAPTER 38

Madden

Moira was in her own bedroom, and I was changing into a fresh suit. I had to tell Enzo what that fucker was planning to do. Trying to break up my best friend and Sorcha? Not a good thing to brag about in a busy fucking bar.

“Madden?”

I turned around to find a very delectable looking Moira St. James standing in my doorway. She was wearing a very sexy pair of fitted black trousers, the same white shirt, covered by an oversized beige jumper. Her hair was now hanging loose, and she’d straightened it.

“Wow, sexy lady,” I said, without engaging my brain.

“Thought you weren’t going to flirt?”

“Very funny. Can’t I say that you look hot, without it being classed as flirting?”

Moira rolled her eyes, then tapped her watch, but I saw the hint of a rather smug smirk.

“We said half an hour, Blaine. It’s been forty minutes.”

I grabbed my phone, wallet, and jacket, then waltzed over to her. I gave her a cheeky wink, then swept past her into the main living area. I desperately wanted to kiss those tempting lips, but I was a stubborn son of a bitch. Competitive too.

“Let’s not keep our friends waiting then,” I replied, turning to look back at my new roommate.

I opened the door, swiping up the keycard, then gestured for her to leave. Moira shook her head, striding over to me, then paused at the threshold of the suite. She leaned in, planting a very delicious kiss on my cheek.

“This is going to be a fun game,” she whispered into my ear.

As she walked past me, her hand ghosted my ass, causing my brows to shoot up in surprise. I smirked again, closing the door behind me, then followed her cute ass towards the lifts. I, however, hated those floating boxes, so I winked at her as I continued to the stairs.

“No lift?” she questioned.

“I hate those things.”

Her footsteps caught up with me, and Moira fell into step, eyes glancing my way. I had to look at her as we hit the first floor landing, and I saw the question dying to be asked on her lips.

“I suffer from a phobia of lifts, Moira. I never use them,” I said. “And now you can tease me for it.”

Moira’s hand shot out, slapping my arm, causing me to halt my steps. I turned and gazed at her, and the annoyed look in her eyes.

“What was that for, pretty eyes?” I questioned.

“Because I’m not a bloody child. I’m not a big fan of lifts either. But I’m terrified of flying, if you must know. Just like Sorcha. When we went to Ireland the other year? We took the bloody ferry,” she fired at me.

She stalked ahead, and I groaned, jogging to catch up. As we got to the lobby, I reached for her hand, making her turn around, dropping her gaze to the sudden contact.

“What are you doing?”

I’d clocked the slimy fucker as soon as we hit the ground floor, and Ethan Snow was watching us intently. Like a predator studying his prey.

Fucking prick.

“I’m holding your hand, now smile at me, pretty eyes, as we’re being watched,” I whispered into her ear, and I eased her into a very intimate embrace.

“Shit, Blaine. Wandering hands,” she hissed. “Wait, what?”

“Don’t slap me, Moira,” I said quietly.

“What? What are you doing?”

“This,” then I covered her mouth, kissing those soft, tempting lips.

And holy fucking shit, this was better than anything I’d ever experienced. Moira didn’t move for a moment, then a deliciously sexy moan suddenly fell from her. Her hands were in my hair, and this fiery lady was kissing me back. I had to keep it swift, and reluctantly pulled away.

“Fucking hell,” she yelped, and I patted her ass.

“Again, please don’t slap me?” I repeated.

She narrowed her eyes at me, cheeks flushed, then she giggled loudly, lightly slapping my chest, then started kissing my neck.

Shit, shit, shit… Instant fucking hard on.

“I really want to punch Snow,” she purred into my ear. “But next time you pull a stunt like this? I’ll kick you in your nuts.”

I snorted, but grabbed her ass cheek, pressing her against me, and she hissed, fingers gripping my shoulders hard.

“No, Moira. You won’t. Because I know that you’re attracted to me too. Even though you asked me not to flirt with you? You’re enjoying this game. But, I have to tell you this, pretty eyes. I want more than just a tumble in the sack. You make me want to do the adulting thing again. But only with you,” then I released her.

She stared at me in shock, and I grinned like a devil. I took her hand in mine, lacing our fingers together, then started towards the hotel bar. Moira didn’t resist, and I kept a tight hold of her hand.

I paused at the entrance, tugging her closer again. I gave her a cheeky wink, then kissed her forehead before leading her inside, very aware of Snow’s eyes on us as we did so.

Enzo

I’d scooped Sorcha up, carrying her into the shower, after surprising my little bookworm. The sound of her calling me ‘Daddy’ while I fucked her had done things to me that I hadn’t expected. One of the more dirty books on her shelf had given me that idea. I didn’t think it would have any effect. I was so wrong.

I became fucking feral for my little minx.

The sounds that came from her. The way her pussy had squeezed me, and the way she looked as she came undone. It caused me to come like I’d never done before. Every woman I’d fucked in the past paled into insignificance compared to Sorcha.

Sorcha was made just for me, and me alone.

Now, we were sitting in the busy bar, a bottle of Shiraz, two glasses on the table, and snuggled up close. I hadn’t ever felt this happy in my entire damned life, and I kissed her temple, touching the eternity ring on her finger.

“Don’t you two look so fucking adorable,” a familiar male voice stated, and Madden appeared.

“And why are you holding hands?” Sorcha fired at her best friend.

“Keeping up appearances,” she fired back, yanking hers free from Madden’s.

I noticed the smug smirk on his face as he allowed her to sit down next to Sorcha. The mischievous twinkle in his eyes, however, told me something was going on with them. I knew him all too fucking well.

“Drink, pretty eyes?” he asked Moira.

“Let’s share a bottle of red too, cocky ass,” Moira shot back.

“And you enjoy my cocky ass, sexy lady,” he purred.

“In your dreams, Blaine.”

Sorcha was watching their exchange with an amused smile, and I chuckled into my wine glass. Madden simply winked at her with the famous ‘Blaine’ smile. A smile that caused women… and guys, to practically come where they stood. He turned to me, then leaned forward.

“Heads up. Snow is in the lobby, and he saw us come in here,” then he walked away to the bar.

My girlfriend tensed immediately, and I pulled her closer, arm tightening protectively around her waist. Moira was busy on her phone, so I leaned in and whispered in Sorcha’s ear.

“Don’t worry, mi amor. Daddy won’t let anything happen to you.”

The squeak that came out of my woman, had her best friend gawking at her in shock. I chuckled knowingly, running my hand up her thigh, before taking another sip of my wine.

“What the fuck was that noise, Sorcha? Wait, I don’t want to know,” Moira groaned.

I sat forward, fixing my eyes onto Moira’s green ones. She frowned, crossing her arms over her chest, and tapped her fingers on the top of the table.

“What?” she fired.

“You and Madden?” I questioned.

“What about me and him?”

“You two are fucking sweet on each other,” I drawled.

“Are not.”

“Are too,” Sorcha piped up.

“Shut up, witch.”

“No chance. You two are making eyes at each other,” I added.

That earned me a slap on the shoulder, and a glare at Sorcha. But, I saw Moira’s eyes glance over at my best friend’s ass, making me snort into an amused chuckle.

“Checking out his ass, right now, Moira,” I teased.

“Oh, bloody shut up, Fuentes,” she snapped.

It was at that moment that my beautiful little lady tensed, chewing on her bottom lip suddenly. I glanced towards the entrance to the bar, and there he was. The slimy fucker that was Ethan Snow. His eyes found mine, then they moved to Sorcha, who was clearly uncomfortable. It was the nasty spark in his fucking eyes that caused my anger to bubble up to the surface.

Madden reappeared, but he looked equally as pissed as I was. He put down the bottle, poured Moira a glass, then one for himself. He scooted into the booth beside her, arm draping over her shoulders, but I had to ask, as I recognised the darkness in his eyes.

“What’s wrong?”

“Snow had the cheek to congratulate us on our ‘publicity stunt’,” he answered.

“Excuse me?” Moira snapped, touching Madden’s arm.

I pulled my lady into my body, holding onto her protectively, then I looked at my best friend. He was absently running a finger along Moira’s shoulder, and she seemed to be oblivious to the fact.

“And what else did that fucker say?” and I eased Sorcha onto my lap.

Her arms came around my neck, head resting on my shoulder, but I felt the stress and tension flowing through her, and I fucking hated it. Madden leaned his forearms onto the table, then lowered his voice as he spoke.

“Okay. He was talking to a couple of his ‘fans’.”

“Oh great. Carl and Drew by any chance?” I asked.

“Yes. And Hailey’s here,” Madden added.

Sorcha felt me tense under her, and she lifted her head, frowning at me. I touched her cheek, and pulled her in for a kiss.

“Who’s Hailey?” she asked.

“Mierda,” I muttered, squeezing my little lady even tighter.

“Hailey’s a blonde bimbo with a vicious streak, who Enzo fucked a few times. A good ten years ago,” Madden replied.

I raked a hand through my hair, then took a swig of my Shiraz, tightening my grip around the stem of my wine glass.

Hailey.

One name only, and a nasty vile little witch. I had fucked her just over ten years ago. She was also the bitch that had upset Sorcha.

“The witch that was vile to you at the restaurant the other night, cariño,” I growled.

“What? The nasty cow from that stuck up place?” she gasped, and I noticed the mixture of panic and anger in her beautiful eyes.

“Sí, lo siento, cariño.” I whispered into her ear, before kissing her neck tenderly.

She huddled into me, kissing my lips, then she whispered into my ear. “Don’t do that. There’s no need for you to be sorry. Maybe I might get the chance to punch her.”

My eyes flew up to Sorcha’s face, and she was grinning at me, making my heart beat faster. I arched an amused brow, relaxing a little.

“Oh really, you bad girl?” I growled seductively in her ear again.

“There’s nothing stopping me from smacking the vile cow,” she replied.

I had to kiss her, hands roaming up her spine. I didn’t give a fuck that we were in a public place. But, I needed Snow and Hailey to know that they couldn’t break us. What we had was way too fucking powerful.

“That’s not all, Enzo,” Moira whispered, once we broke our kiss. “Tell them, Madden.”

Our eyes found my best friend’s, and he leaned on the table, turning a little, so as to hide his face from Snow, who was still watching the four of us.

“Snow wants to break the two of you up. Hailey is going to entice you into her bed while he sweeps Sorcha off her feet. He literally said ‘She won’t be able to say no to me.’ The big headed, arrogant fuck.”

CHAPTER 39

Enzo

Ididn’t say anything for a few tense moments, trying not to fly through this damned bar, and pummel Snow into nothing but fucking pulp. He wasn’t going to take the love of my life from me. And I would rather have my fingernails torn out, than touch that vile bitch ever again. We would make sure that their pathetic little plan would seriously crash and burn… spectacularly.

“Why the hell is he doing this?” Sorcha asked.

“I think he wants a book deal, and Sorcha’s the ticket to that because of David,” Moira said.

“He also wants to hurt you, Enzo. For breaking his nose,” Madden added. “And his precious ego.”

It took me a couple of seconds to gather my thoughts. A deep seated hatred coursed through my veins, then the object of said hatred appeared, his voice cutting through me like a knife. All eyes flew up to find Ethan fucking Snow smiling at the four of us.

“Great to see you could make it, Sorcha. Gentlemen, there’s a group of very sexy ladies dying to meet you later. I’m sure the girls can entertain themselves? And Sorcha? I’ll happily keep you company when Enzo is… preoccupied,” he purred.

I started to rise from my seat, but Sorcha’s hand touched my thigh beneath the table. I turned to gaze at her, and there was nothing but love in her eyes, so I gritted my teeth, lowering back into the leather cushion of the booth.

“Mr. Blaine. I’m sure there’ll be plenty of action for you too. The girls can settle at the buffet. It’s free to the convention guests,” and he had the audacity to look right at Moira.

“You fucking…” started Moira, but Madden pulled her in for a very swift kiss.

“See you all at the dinner later,” then he strode away before we could say anything.

My hands were gripping Sorcha like a vice, the silence charged with tension, eyes staring at the son of a bitch’s retreating figure.

“What the fuck just happened?” Madden growled.

“The fucking cheek,” Moira hissed, slapping my friend on the arm. “You should’ve let me call him a fucking twat, Blaine.”

“Not a good idea, pretty eyes. He’ll get what’s coming to him. Trust us,” Madden replied, looking at me with a wicked sparkle in his eyes. “Right, Enzo? Give him enough rope…”

“And he’ll hang himself with it,” Sorcha finished.

“Exactly, Sorcha,” Madden replied, grinning.

The tension was suddenly broken by a chorus of familiar voices, and my eyes found some of my favourite fellow authors. Maisie, Howard, Kaley, and the enigma that was River. They came striding over, drinks in hand, and I noticed River eyeing up both Madden, Moira and Sorcha.

“Oh my god, great to see you, Enzo,” Maisie gushed. “And Sorcha, you look great too.”

“Hello lovely lady,” Madden drawled. “This is Moira.”

I glanced at Sorcha, and we each shared a knowing smirk, but Moira was on her feet, flinging her arms around the author.

“Oh my god. I bloody adore your books,” she gushed, making Maisie burst into light, happy laughter.

River slid in beside Sorcha and myself, his eyes fixed on my woman. He smiled, resembling a fucking graceful, yet dangerous panther. I smacked his shoulder instantly, making him chuckle.

“Off fucking limits, River,” I warned.

“Take a chill pill, Fuentes. Can’t I just admire the view,” and he winked. “Hello pretty Barnes.”

“You know who I am?” she exclaimed.

“Oh yes, sunshine. David’s delectable little sister.”

My beautiful girlfriend snorted into her giggle, blushing profusely. She buried her face into the crook of my neck, and I had to chuckle too, pressing her close. River was only thirty one, and he had perfect dark skin. Dark brown hair, with deep blue eyes. Built like a thoroughbred racehorse, and an incorrigible flirt. He relaxed where he sat, and took a sip of his wine, watching the two of us like a hawk. I rolled my eyes, making him grin again.

“You’re finally in love, Fuentes.”

“Yes I am, River, so hands off,” I drawled.

He let out a deep throaty laugh, and smacked my shoulder. “Sure thing, Fuentes. Is that sexy redhead?” and Madden threw a beer mat at him. “Guess not,” River purred, eyeing up my best friend.

“And fucking no chance, River,” shot Madden, and the mood was lightened instantly as they all grabbed extra chairs, chatter flowing comfortably… for now.

Sorcha

The evening had been filled with laughter, more drinks, and a very beautiful dinner with friends. Ethan had stayed away from us. From me, as I had not been left alone once during the entire night. Meeting the other authors was also an experience. Especially River. He was an exceptionally gorgeous specimen, and flirted like a bloody demon.

Madden and Moira were getting along very well, and I noticed the look in my best friend’s eyes as she gazed at the handsome writer. She blatantly had the hots for him, but it seemed that Madden also felt the same way. Whenever she spoke, he literally gazed into her eyes, ignoring all other women in the room.

From Ethan throwing me daggers across the huge dining room, Enzo having me attached to him all night, and my friend clearly flirting with Madden Blaine, it was a very interesting evening.

Enzo and I slept soundly. No sex, just wrapped up in each other’s arms until the alarm pierced the silence the next morning. I was pulled in for a kiss, and I had to smile up at his handsome face. His hair was always messy in the mornings, but the love in his eyes melted me in a flash.

“Morning, mi amor,” he whispered, kissing my lips.

“Morning handsome.”

He rolled over, taking me with him, and I giggled. His hands were on my ass, and he massaged it sensually.

“A new day, so a new frame of mind, my sexy little lady,” he said.

“I’ve never been to the signing, Enzo. I’m usually David’s plus one at the dinner and dance on the final night. What happens?” I asked.

“Readers move around the room, chatting to authors, taking pictures. We sign books, sell them. It’s a great way to find new readers too,” he replied. “You’ve never been to one before? Even though you inhale books like air?”

“No, cheeky shit,” I answered, slapping his shoulder lightly.

He sat up, making me straddle him, hands roaming my curves. I kissed him, claiming Enzo’s mouth all over again. He moaned into my lips, slowly rocking me over his morning hard on.

“Mmm,” fell from me, as his shaft was rubbing over my pussy in the best bloody way.

“Fuck, we can’t right now, mi amor,” he groaned.

“I know. But later, handsome. And now I need to pee, then shower. Love you,” and I jumped off the bed after pecking his lips.

“Ti amo, my sexy little minx,” he called after me.

I showered quickly, then my mind flickered to life, and the nerves started to bristle. Ethan’s plan. And Hailey was in the same fucking building. The last two people I ever wanted to lay eyes on again, but Enzo had ensured me that they wouldn’t get anywhere near me. It didn’t stop the nausea that flickered to life in my stomach.

“cariño?” and my writer appeared as I turned off the shower.

“What’s up, handsome?”

He held out a huge white fluffy towel for me, wrapping it around my body as I stepped from the steamy cubicle.

“I made coffee, and ordered breakfast to our room,” he replied.

“Ooh, room service,” I exclaimed happily, relaxing instantly.

He seemed to have noticed, and he grabbed another towel, turning me so he could gently dry my hair a little.

“I love you, cariño. And don’t worry about today.”

I nodded, smiling at him in the mirror, but that was easier said than done, as I had a strange feeling that today was going to be a very interesting day.

Moira

The alarm was extremely irritating, and I reached out to silence the bleeping devil. I froze, however, as my fingers brushed warm, naked skin. The groan came next, and I inwardly cursed. I dared to open my eyes, and I found a half naked writer next to me. I rubbed the sleep from my eyes, then took a good look at Madden Blaine, sleeping soundly beside me. He was wearing boxers and a t-shirt, hair all messy, then I looked down at my own body. I was in my nightshirt and shorts.

Had Madden Blaine been a good bloody boy? Did I change into my nightshirt and shorts?

Shit, shit shit…

I carefully climbed out of the bed, desperately in need of a pee. I quietly tiptoed towards the bathroom door, but my footsteps were halted by a very sexy male voice.

“Morning, pretty eyes.”

My hand paused on the door handle, then I glanced behind me. Madden was sitting up ruffling that divine head of black hair.

“Hey. I need to pee. Be right back.”

“You want coffee?” he called.

“Yeah. Black. No milk or sugar,” I replied.

I swiftly emptied my bladder, washed my hands, and cleaned my teeth, then I gave my unruly, curly hair a brush, scooping it up into a messy bun. My hands landed on the counter as I looked at my reflection in the mirror. I remembered coming back to the suite, giggling a lot, then drinking more wine. I also remembered falling onto the bed.

“Shit,” I muttered.

I left the bathroom, tugging at the bottom of my nightshirt, suddenly very conscious of my size. I walked into the living area, and my body went crazy at the sight of Madden’s six four, muscular frame. He was now bare chested, wearing a pair of black PJ bottoms, slung low on his hips.

Holy fucking crap balls… Sex god alert.

“Hey, your coffee’s ready, beautiful.”

“Funny,” I grumbled, and ambled over to the sofa area, where there was a small breakfast bar.

“Meaning?” he asked.

“I look… crappy,” I muttered.

“No you don’t, beautiful.”

“Yes I do. And I walk in here, and you look… like that,” I grumbled.

Madden chuckled, bringing my coffee mug over, then he gazed right into my eyes. His hand covered mine, which was sitting on the counter too.

“Like what?” he questioned, with an irritatingly gorgeous smile on his equally, annoyingly heavenly face.

And I put it down to the bloody red wine I drank last night, as my brain malfunctioned, and I right royally stuck both feet in my mouth.

“A bloody hot sex god,” and I squeaked, clamping my lips together, silently cursing.

Madden laughed loudly, then ruffled his hair. “Well, thank you, Moira. I think you look fucking gorgeous, pretty eyes. And I hope you know that I didn’t try a thing last night. You got yourself changed in your own room, waltzed back into my bedroom, then we fell asleep after chatting about books.”

A smile slowly crept onto my face, and I took a sip of my coffee. The famous womanising author of some of my favourite crime thrillers was gazing at me in such a way that I wanted to jump him.

“Books. And you informed me that you’d read every single one of mine, twice over,” he replied

“Thank you, you cheeky, cocky devil,” I replied, trying to hide my glee.

“I promised you that I wouldn’t give you my usual playboy moves. What you see here? The real me, pretty eyes” he said. “And you look like a sexy little devil,” he growled into my ear.

He patted my shoulder gently, pecked my cheek, and stood to his full height. I stared up into his stunning eyes, then he gave me a wink, turned, and strode back to his bedroom.

I watched him leave, then I squeaked into my coffee cup. My heart was racing at a billion miles an hour, but my stomach was fluttering with excited butterflies.

Madden Blaine thought I was beautiful… and a sexy devil.

Eeek.

CHAPTER 40

Enzo

Sorcha was standing in a set of sexy black underwear, staring at the clothes now hanging on the rail in the wardrobe. Her hands were on her hips, and I couldn’t resist. I sauntered over and wrapped my arms around her.

“Everything is going to be great today, mi amor. Because I love you, and you love me.”

She giggled, turning in my embrace, and her own arms snaked up my back, pressing her body against mine.

“What about Ethan?” she said quietly.

“Don’t do that. Me and you, cariño? Always and forever. Now get dressed,” I said.

I smacked her sexy ass, and I kissed my girlfriend, before leaving her to get ready. As I finished my coffee, my phone pinged on the coffee table. I swiped it up, then grinned at the message.

“Get ready for your bad bitches. We’ll be there in around an hour. That little tiny dicked fucker won’t know what hit him. But it’ll be Abbi shaped. Love ya. R xx”

I snorted into a laugh, sending back a heart, then I heard a small cough for attention. I turned around, and my heart went bat shit fucking crazy. Sorcha was wearing that yellow dress. The one she had on in Italy, and my dick started to get giddy in my pants.

“Do I look okay?” she asked.

“You look stunning, cariño.”

“You sure?”

Her cheeks turned pink as she played with a lock of her hair, and I noticed the nerves. I walked to her, taking her waist, and holding her close.

“Sí. Why are you nervous?” I asked.

“She’s here, Enzo. She was so fucking mean,” she whispered.

“And Raya and Abbi will be here too, mi amor. That evil bitch and Snow? They won’t get anywhere near either of us.

I tilted her chin, then covered her mouth with mine, and Sorcha melted in my arms. No way were those two vile creatures going to hurt her. One foot out of line? I’d crush them.

My table was at the far end of the huge function room, and I held onto Sorcha’s hand tightly. Numerous familiar authors said hello as we passed, but I was focused on two things. Not bumping into Snow, and keeping Sorcha safe from both of them.

“There’s Madden and Moira,” Sorcha said.

“And they look friendly,” I replied.

Madden was sitting facing the other chair, which was occupied by Moira, and they were laughing and whispering. Her hand shot out, and she lightly slapped Madden’s chest.

“Bloody hell. One day together and they’re besties?” Sorcha questioned.

“Seems Madden hasn’t lost his touch, but I warned him to behave,” I replied.

“They look cute together, don’t they?” Sorcha said, looking up at me, as we reached my table.

Their attention was grasped as they saw us, and Moira was on her feet. Sorcha was engulfed in a huge hug, and I noticed her whispering into my bookworm’s ear. I smirked as Madden strolled over, and he sat on top of my table.

“Morning, Fuentes. You okay?” he asked.

“Depends. You seen Snow?”

“No. No signs yet. Are Raya and Abbi on their way?”

“Yeah. They’ll be here in around…” and I glanced at the huge clock on the far wall. “Forty five minutes.”

He nodded, eyes glancing to our two ladies, talking in hushed tones. I watched how his hand raked through his unusually untidy hair, He rubbed at his unshaven jawline and chin, and I smirked. Madden Blaine had it seriously bad for Miss Moira St. James.

“Good morning,” and we all turned to see Mr slimy fucker, Snow.

The look in his eyes was colder than Antarctica, but I didn’t fucking care. I held out my hand for Sorcha, and she was instantly by my side. I wrapped my arm tightly around her waist, pressing her into my body.

“Snow,” I simply replied.

“Morning Ethan,” Madden drawled, standing up.

“Your room wasn’t occupied last night, Sorcha. I called with wine, hoping to keep you company while these two party boys enjoyed some female company?” he purred.

“I had company, Snow. My girlfriend, right mi amor?” I replied.

My sexy little bookworm gazed up at me, then that sassy fire ignited behind her eyes. She huddled closer still, and her hand touched my cheek, lips curling up into a very wicked, sinful smile.

“Right, handsome. And not much sleep,” she purred, pulling me down to her. “My very attentive, talented boyfriend,” and she kissed me.

My entire body went into heat for my little sexy minx, as she claimed my mouth as hers, then I growled when she slipped her tongue inside, crushing her into my body.

“Well, hello,” I heard Madden state.

“You bad girl,” I growled into her lips, then she giggled again.

“I was last night too, but you just fucked it out of me,” she said sweetly, yet rather loudly.

My eyes went wide, and I heard Moira gasp at my girlfriend’s filthy words. I snorted into a dirty laugh, knowing full well that we didn’t fuck last night. After this little show of ownership, however? I was going to ruin my girlfriend’s pussy all fucking night long tonight.

His loud cough brought our attention back to the problem that was Ethan fucking Snow, and he was glaring at me, as though I’d murdered his pet, or a family member.

“Try to be respectful of the other authors,” he hissed angrily. “And that language doesn’t suit you, Sorcha. Gentlemen,” then he whirled around, and stormed off, the rage flowing through him in waves.

The cheers erupted around the two of us once Snow had disappeared. Maisie, Howard, and my best friend were whistling. Moira was laughing loudly, then a very familiar female voice rang out.

“Fucking awesome, lady. Marry that woman,” and my head whipped around to find Raya and Abbi striding over.

I yanked Sorcha back into my arms, nuzzling the soft skin of her neck. “I didn’t think I could love you any more than I already do, but that was fucking sensational,” I growled into her ear.

“You enjoyed that, Fuentes?” she purred.

“I’m going to fuck you until you can’t walk in the morning, you bad fucking girl,” I replied.

The laughter pierced our heated, private exchange, and I cursed as I was smacked on the shoulder… Hard.

“Well, Fuentes. Who knew that your girlfriend had an iron set of balls,” Raya announced to the whole damned room.

Sorcha snorted into laughter, then looked up into my eyes. She gave me a very beautiful smile, then turned around to wave at my other best friend.

“Thanks, Raya. And hi Abbi. Honestly, I was bloody terrified,” Sorcha said.

“Why?” I asked.

“Ethan isn’t a nice guy when he loses his temper,” she replied. “Especially when he’s been drinking.”

And my rage exploded…

Sorcha

I was absolutely terrified at first, but Enzo was here, by my side, along with Moira and Madden. I wanted Ethan to get the fucking message once and for all. I was off the damned market now. I would never take that cheating bastard back if he were the last man on earth.

“I love you too, handsome,” I said, noticing the darkness appear in his beautiful brown eyes.

“Tell me he didn’t fucking hit you?” he growled.

“No, but he threw things near the end of our relationship,” I admitted.

“And?”

“A glass caught me one night. Cut my leg, but he was drunk,” I muttered.

I was yanked into him, and hugged, his head nuzzled in the crook of my neck. I felt the tension in his body, so I ran my hands over his spine, and down to his arse. He sighed, kissing the sensitive skin below my ear, then he released me. Raya and Abbi were suddenly beside me, and I was tugged into their arms, being squashed from both sides.

“That was epic, lady. We heard you from halfway across the room,” Abbi gushed.

“Oh god,” I groaned, blushing profusely.

“Don’t. You showed that fuck face up, and it was awesome,” Raya added. “Now. I’ll go get us all coffees. Alright Blaine, pretty redhead,” and she winked at Moira, before walking back to the entrance.

Enzo kissed me once more, then we took our seats, as the convention was finally opened to the public. I noticed the way Moira was looking at Mr. Madden Blaine, and I had to hide my smirk. My best friend had told me that the writer fancied her, and she was as giddy as a kid in a chocolate factory. She’d also admitted to being a little worried.

I understood that, as Enzo had a similar reputation. Yet he’d shown me his real self, hiding beneath the ‘man whore prick’ persona, and I’d fallen so bloody fast. I’d told Moira to give him a chance, and see what he was willing to do to prove himself to her.

Now, the fans were piling into the room, filtering through the many tables, and I felt Enzo squeeze my hand.

“You announced to our friends and neighbours that I fucked the bad girl out of you, mi amor,” he whispered into my ear, making me snort loudly.

“And I have no regrets. Because the look on Ethan’s face was bloody priceless,” I replied.

I shuffled close to Enzo, but I also noticed Ethan lurking by the far wall, subtly watching us. I nudged my writer’s thigh, and he gazed over at me.

“cariño?”

“We’re being watched, Enzo.”

“Ignore him, and get on,” he said, patting his lap.

I stared at him in surprise, not moving. Then his hand shot out, yanking me to my feet. He tugged me down, wrapping me up with his powerful arms. I had to giggle again, then he kissed me tenderly.

“I can sign with you on my knee, mi amor.”

“They’re not here for me, handsome.”

“I don’t care, you sexy little lady.”

That was the last quiet moment for another four hours, and Enzo signed books, had selfies taken with fans, then chatted animatedly with them. He had bookmarks, stickers, artwork, and they were added to pre-orders, purchases today, and I happily watched him interacting.

“Mr. Fuentes,” gushed a tall, blonde young man. “I love your books. This is my girlfriend, and I got her into your books too. Right, hun?”

“Yes he did. Love them,” the young dark haired woman stated.

Enzo grinned, taking the offered books, and he began to sign them to ‘Ash and Lucy’, but their eyes kept flicking to me. The young woman smiled warmly, and I returned it.

“You’re the brunette from the park. Mr. Fuentes was kissing your forehead. Are you his girlfriend?” she asked.

I was a little surprised at the sudden attention, and the fact that they knew who I was. I gave them a shy smile, and nodded.

“Yes. I’m Enzo’s girlfriend,” I answered.

“Oh my god, can I have a picture with you both?” she gasped.

Enzo chuckled, pulling me in for a hug, kissing my lips confidently, then he patted the young woman’s shoulder.

“Sí, lovely lady,” he drawled.

“Oh yay,” she gushed, and I was squished between Enzo and his lovely fan, as I had my first ever selfie with my writer.

The announcement rang out that lunchtime had arrived, and I let out a sigh of relief, my jaw aching a little from all the smiling. Moira and Madden appeared, and my best friend looked so relaxed.

“Coming for lunch?” Madden asked.

“Soon. I just need some air,” I replied, taking Enzo’s hand in mine.

“Okay. we’ll save you seats,” Moira said, then she grabbed the writer’s hand, and dragged him through the crowds.

Enzo was studying me as I grabbed my bag and phone. I shoved his own phone into his trouser pocket, then led him through the room. I’d made a very naughty decision, and I ignored all the doubts and worry flying through my head.

“cariño? What are you doing?”

“I want Daddy to satisfy me,” I simply replied.

“You want… Oh, you filthy girl,” he growled, and my pussy suddenly fluttered with anticipation.

CHAPTER 41

Enzo

Iswiftly hoisted her from the floor, causing my Sorcha to yelp, and fall into giggles, and I was instantly hard. I knew where to go so we wouldn’t be seen, but I was about to fuck my lady just how she wanted.

There was a secluded garden around the side of the building. No windows, no foot traffic, but a few clusters of trees dotted around the grassed square. I dropped her to her feet by the side of one large oak, starting on the zip of my trousers.

“Knees, you bad girl,” I ordered.

“Oh god,” she gasped, but she did as she was told, and dropped to the ground.

“Suck your Daddy’s cock,” I growled, wrapping her hair around my hand.

Sorcha looked up into my eyes, and the fire behind them, and the wicked little smirk on her lips, caused me to groan out loud, my cock bobbing with excitement.

“Open up, cariño,” I ordered.

“Yes, Daddy,” she purred.

I growled again at the way she said it, then she took my entire length into her mouth.

“Holy fucking shit,” I hissed.

Her eyes were on mine, hands on my hips, and my beautiful, naughty little bookworm took me like a damned champion, all the way to the back of her throat. I glanced around, and we were still alone, so I gripped her hair tightly, holding her head still, then I smiled down at my woman.

“Mierda. You’re so fucking good. Your mouth is perfect,” I praised. “Good fucking girl.”

She moaned, eyes coming back to mine, then I started to fuck her mouth enthusiastically, watching as tears began to roll down her cheeks. My beautiful girlfriend looked stunning, deepthroating me, but I pulled out… Reluctantly.

“I need to be inside you, cariño,” and I pulled her to her feet. “Turn around,” I ordered. “Hands on the tree.”

Sorcha blinked up at me, a wicked smile gracing her talented mouth, then did as she was told.

“Yes, daddy,” she said, sweetly.

My hands moved under her dress, and I growled as I found a completely bare ass. My little minx wasn’t wearing underwear.

“You bad fucking girl,” I whispered, as I kissed just beneath her ear. “Do you want your daddy to fuck your…” and my fingers found her pussy, and holy fuck. “Oh, your pussy is begging for me.”

“Please, daddy. Fuck me,” she moaned, as I teased her clit.

My cock had never been so damned hard, and my heart was hammering like crazy. I kissed the back of her neck, then whispered into her ear once more.

“I fucking love you, cariño,” then I lined up my cock, and thrust forwards.

She cried out, my name falling from her lips, and I stilled for a second. Every time she called me ‘daddy’? It made my dick pulse.

“God, daddy, yes.”

Then I fucked my little bookworm hard and fast, pinning her against the trunk of the tree, our sighs, gasps, and my own grunts, the only noises in the secluded garden.

I had a tight hold of my sexy, beautiful bookworm, and I loved the way her cheeks were all flushed. But, before we entered the bar, I halted our steps.

“No fucking underwear, mi amor?” I asked.

“It was a surprise,” she answered, her cheeks colouring even more.

“The best, and most perfect surprise, and I love you for it,” I whispered.

“I was really nervous, Enzo.”

“Why?”

“I’ve never done anything like that before,” she said.

I tugged her into my arms, and simply held her tightly. “And you enjoyed it?” I asked.

“Yes,” she whispered. “But only because it was with you.”

My heart soared, and I chuckled happily. I had hoped that Sorcha hadn’t ever done anything like this with that fucker, and now I couldn’t help the smug smile on my face. As we entered the bar, however, my gaze found him.

I yanked Sorcha closer, then threw Snow a glare as we found Madden, Moira, and my other favourite bunch of authors. Raya and Abbi were also with them, and they had dragged three tables together to accommodate everyone.

“Oh my god,” my best friend screeched. “You two went to fuck.”

I groaned in amused annoyance, hand raking through my hair, then we joined the rabble, placing Sorcha onto my lap.

“I can sit on a chair,” she laughed at me.

“No. You bad girl,” I said quietly.

She blushed, but huddled into me, and I had never felt so damned happy. Madden poured us each a glass of wine, and food swiftly arrived. I reluctantly allowed Sorcha to sit on the chair beside me, and we ate, chatted about life, book deadlines, crazy fans… Until Kaley fixed the two of us with her deep blue eyes.

“What’s the story, Enzo? This is the first time you’ve looked truly happy, and Sorcha is very beautiful.”

“Off limits, Kay,” Raya warned.

“Ah, shame. So, tell us, as we all want to know how the confirmed bachelor suddenly seems smitten?” she asked.

Sorcha shuffled in her seat. Raya and Abbi smirked at me, and Madden threw me a very amused wink. I leaned in and kissed Sorcha’s lips, then took a swig of my wine.

“I’ve wanted this lady for a long time. We shared one night full of amazing sex, then she ran away from me, fucking off to Italy after she slapped me,” I answered honestly.

Her hand shot out, and I was smacked on my chest, my little bookworm hissing at me. “Bloody hell, handsome.”

“It’s the truth, cariño.”

“Italy?” questioned River.

“I thought he’d hate waking up with me,” I admitted to them. “I don’t exactly resemble the usual women… but he flew to Italy to come and get me,” she announced.

The table fell into laughter, then we were questioned from all sides. I was happy to answer their queries, and Sorcha relaxed beside me, leaning into my side, my arm wrapped around her protectively.

Eventually, the speaker announced that all authors needed to make their way back into the convention room. I groaned, finishing the last of my drink, then Sorcha stood up.

“I’m gonna go pee,” she whispered.

“Take someone with you?” I suggested.

“It’s only there, I’ll be fine,” she replied.

She kissed my lips, then I watched her walk towards the restrooms. Raya was suddenly by my side, and she touched my arm.

“Want me to go check on her?” she asked.

I noticed him wandering to the bathrooms too. “I think you should. Thanks Ray.”

Sorcha

I was happy, relaxed, and never noticed him following me. As I rounded the corner, my wrist was grabbed, and I was flung into the wall, knocking the air from me. I was pinned between his hands on each side of my head.

“All alone, finally,” Ethan drawled.

“What are you doing? Leave me alone,” I gasped.

“I saw the two of you outside, Sorcha,” he growled.

My heart skipped, and the panic began to crush my windpipe. His own hand was suddenly on my waist, squeezing.

“Let me go, Ethan.”

“You’ve gotten bold, Sorcha. Sex in public.”

“Leave me alone,” I whispered.

“How much money would it take to get you on your knees for me?”

“Move. Get out of my way,” I stammered.

Terror had replaced panic, and my eyes darted around for help, but he suddenly pressed his body against me, pinning me to the wall.

“You looked like a dirty little slut, Sorcha. Enzo has turned you into one. So, how much money would you take to do that for me?” he hissed, his hand moving to my throat, squeezing.

“You lost all privilege to me when you cheated,” I whispered.

“Would you take money to spread your legs for me against a tree too, you little slut?” he growled.

“Never,” I croaked.

“Maybe I should take it anyway?” he threatened.

“Get your fucking slimy hands off my friend,” came a very familiar voice, and I released a breath.

One that I hadn't realised I was holding.

“I was just catching up with my cute little poppet,” Ethan purred, backing away. “Bye, Sorcha. Catch you later,” then he swiftly vanished.

My hands were suddenly shaking, body trembling, and I couldn’t breathe. Raya took my hand, and I was physically manhandled inside the ladies room.

“Go pee, honey. Then you tell me what that bastard just said to you,” she ordered.

I moved on autopilot, doing as Raya asked, but my head was a mess. Ethan had seen Enzo and myself. I’d sucked my boyfriend’s dick.

On my knees.

Then Enzo had fucked me so amazingly from behind, and I had never felt so damned alive. Ethan, however, had seen us. He had to have followed us purposely, and that caused my stomach to churn, knees to become unsteady. I washed my hands in silence, but my heart was thundering at a million miles an hour, breathing shallow, hands still shaking. Raya was watching me carefully, then she reached out, and touched my shoulder gently.

“Ready?”

“Oh god,” I croaked, tears gathering at the corners of my eyes.

“Tell me, Sorcha. What did Snow say to you?”

My hands landed on the surface of the counter, and I took a breath. Blinking caused the first tears to fall, then I was wrapped up in a Raya hug.

“He saw us,” I stammered.

“Saw you?”

“Enzo and me. We had sex… outside, and he saw us, Raya,” and the embarrassment washed over me like iced water.

She eased me backwards, and her blue eyes focused on mine. “What did he say to you, honey?”

“He told me that I looked like a dirty little slut,” I whispered.

“What else?”

“He said Enzo had turned me into one, and how much would it cost him to get me to… oh god, spread my legs for him,” I answered, voice breaking.

“I’m going to fucking punch the son of a bitch,” she hissed, pulling me back in for a hug. “We have to tell Enzo, honey.”

“No,” I gasped in a panic. “He’ll kill him.”

“No he won’t, because we’re here to make sure of that too. But, he has to know, okay?” she assured me.

I simply groaned with a nod, as Raya was annoyingly correct. She gave me a very warm smile, took my hand and squeezed.

“I’ll message Abs to prepare him, but you’ll need to talk to him. Tell him everything that the bastard said. Okay?” she said.

“Yes, but Enzo will want to go after him,” I exclaimed.

“Oh, you have no idea how much I want to belt that fucker too, Sorcha. Now, I need you to hear me. Your sex life is yours. No-one else can dictate to you what the two of you enjoy. Don’t you dare let that cocksucker change that,” she said, her hands on my shoulders.

Raya then pulled out her phone, and started typing out a message. “I know Enzo enjoys being a little naughty between the sheets, figuratively speaking. I’ve known him for decades. And I also know that he’d only do that when he was sure the woman enjoyed it too. I’m presuming you do?” then she slipped her phone back into her jeans pocket.

“I always imagined some things, but Ethan was a very vanilla lover back when we dated. Well, with me that is. Enzo gives me… everything, if you know what I mean,” I replied.

I felt my cheeks burning, but Raya simply nodded, grinning at me. “Oh, I understand. When you find that one soul who sets you on fire? You can let go, be yourself with them. It tells me that you two are perfect for each other, honey.”

The door suddenly flew open, and Enzo stalked in, not caring that we were in the ladies bathroom. Moira and Madden were running to keep up, Madden skidding to a halt at the doorway. I was yanked into my writer’s arms, hugged, then scooped from my feet.

He Pecked Raya, then turned around, disappearing from the bathroom. I held tightly to him for a few moments, then he finally broke the silence.

“I want to rip him apart, cariño. No-one calls my future wife a fucking slut and gets away with it,” he growled.

CHAPTER 42

Sorcha

“Enzo, please don’t hit him,” I whispered.

He walked us back into the convention room, straight to his table, and he sat me on top of it. Enzo grabbed my face, and I was kissed hungrily, possessively, and I melted in a flash. This man had all of me now, and I loved him fiercely.

“He comes anywhere near you again? I will punch him. You’re mine, Sorcha Barnes. The love of my life, and that snake isn’t breaking this,” he said.

“And he won’t, Enzo. I love you too, and you’ve got me,” I replied.

He was in between my thighs, and he instinctively tugged the skirt of my dress down. His hands were in my hair, pulling out the tie holding it in a ponytail. Then he crushed me into him, his lips lightly brushing the skin of my neck. The words that came out of his mouth next, however, had my brain shutting down.

“Marry me, mi amor?”

“What?”

“Marry me, Sorcha Barnes. Because I can’t fucking live without you for one more damned second.”

I stared at him for a few shocked seconds, wondering how I managed to be here. With Enzo Fuentes. The sexiest man I’d ever known, and he had just asked me to marry him. Then the words simply fell from my lips.

“Yes, Enzo. Yes, I’d love to marry you.”

“Fuck,” he croaked, then I was scooped off the table, and spun around, making me giggle loudly.

“My dress, Enzo,” I gasped.

“Mierda,” he growled, halting the spinning. “Sorry.”

“It’s okay.”

I was placed gently back onto my feet, and he cupped my face, kissing me tenderly. Then Enzo whirled around, one hand holding mine, the other flying through his hair. He yelled at the top of his voice, making me squeal with embarrassment, slapping his chest, but grinning like a love sick idiot.

“I’m getting married,” he shouted. “Sorcha’s fucking marrying me.”

Enzo

The rest of the signing went by in a blur. I signed, posed for selfies, and grinned like the fucking Cheshire cat in ‘Alice In Wonderland.’ Once the signing was over, we were crowded by our friends.

Everyone congratulated the two of us, and we were dragged by Madden and Moira into the bar. Our group took over the far end of the room, and champagne was ordered. I sat Sorcha on my knee, holding her close, kissing her shoulder and neck. I was deeply, madly in love, and I’d never felt so happy as I did right now.

“I’m so fucking happy for you,” Madden stated, giving me a swift man hug.

“Thanks, Madden. You and Moira?” I questioned.

“Oh no, not right now. This is your moment. Later,” and he winked at me.

Sorcha had been surrounded by her friends, and mine, then she slipped back onto my lap, arms coming around my neck. She kissed me lovingly, the taste of champagne on her lips.

“I love you, Fuentes,” she whispered.

“I fucking love you like air, mi amor,” I replied.

“I hear congratulations are in order,” and we both froze, the chatter and laughter falling silent.

Ethan Snow was standing in front of our table, a bottle of fizz in his hand. The way he was squeezing it being the only thing telling us how angry he was. I simply stared into his cold eyes, Sorcha tensing on my knee.

“Yes it is, Snow,” I drawled, kissing Sorcha’s neck.

“Well, congratulations Sorcha. You two make a pair,” he replied silkily, his eyes roaming down my fiancèe’s legs.

“Did you enjoy watching Snow? Is that what you’re into now?” I asked, holding Sorcha’s waist tightly.

“I don’t know what you mean, Mr. Fuentes,” he replied, but he looked as guilty as fucking sin.

“Oh, you know exactly what I’m talking about. You call my fiancèe a slut again? You’ll be sucking your food out of a straw for the rest of your life. Stay away from her, Snow,” I warned.

He carefully placed the bottle onto the table, then glared at me. His eyes went to my little bookworm, and I noticed the evil glint flash across them.

And I didn’t like it.

“I apologise, Sorcha. Just keep your… personal affairs… personal,” he fired at me.

“Oh, and tell Hailey to stay away from my lady. I have some very interesting photographs of her in her free time. She tries anything else? Like the stunt she pulled at the restaurant? I have my lawyer on speed dial. Thanks for the fizz,” and I gave him my public persona smile, but it didn’t reach my eyes.

“Yes, well, Congratulations,” then he spun around, and practically sprinted from the room.

The sounds flickered back to life, and Raya snorted into laughter, along with Abbi. Madden was hiding a very wicked smirk with his glass, Moira watching the departure of the nasty snake. Sorcha huddled into my body, then whispered into my ear.

“Thank you, handsome.”

“For?”

“For standing up for me,” she replied.

I groaned, running my hands up over her spine. “Look at me, mi amor?” I asked, lifting my head, gazing down at my beautiful, sexy lady. “Come on, cariño. Give me your fucking stunning eyes.”

She finally looked at me, and I cupped her face with my hands. I kissed her softly, then I gave her the smile only meant for her. The one that told her how I truly felt about her.

“Why would I not defend you against him? I’d do it to anyone who tries to hurt you, cariño. I fucking love you.”

“Shit,” she breathed, then those lips curled up into that cock hardening smile. “I’m going to marry you.”

“Yes. You are. Now, let’s fucking drink to that,” and I lifted my glass after passing Sorcha hers. “To you, Sorcha Barnes. To you, because you make me whole,” and she blushed all over again.

“To us,” she replied, and instead of drinking, Sorcha kissed me, and I chuckled into her soft lips.

Madden

After a few more drinks, we all walked from the bar, dispersing, so we could get ready for the dinner and dance. I’d been ready to fight alongside Enzo after finding out what that slimy fucker had said to Sorcha, but, true to form, Fuentes floored the little bastard with the power of words.

Moira was quiet as we got to the door of the suite, and she disappeared inside without a word. I frowned at the closed bedroom door, and a strange dull ache bloomed in my heart. I heard the shower running, but I had to know what was wrong. I hoped I hadn’t inadvertently upset her, so I knocked on the door.

“Moira? Are you okay?” I asked.

“Fine.”

“No. You’re mad. Or upset, and I want to make sure that,” then the door flew open.

Moira was still dressed, but barefoot. Her curly hair was now framing her face, and she looked so damned beautiful. The look in her eyes, however, caused my heart to stutter.

“I’m the last of my group to find anyone,” she stammered, eyes glistening with tears.

“And that’s why you’re upset?” I questioned.

She hissed at me, slapping my chest. “No. It’s because this fucking room isn’t bloody yellow with bright blue dots on the fucking walls,” she yelled.

She stalked past me, and I swiftly went to the bathroom and turned off the shower. Then I found Moira pulling out the small bottles of prosecco from the small fridge.

“Want a drink?” she fired at me.

“Sure. I’ll have,” but she cut me off, making me raise a surprised brow.

“Whiskey. Straight, no ice.”

I walked over to the sexiest redhead I’d ever met, watching as she literally hunted down every last drop of alcohol in the entire suite. She poured my whiskey, then downed a neat shot of sambuca, then poured another.

“Where the hell did the sambuca come from?” I asked.

“My suitcase. It was for emergencies,” she replied.

“Christ, woman,” I drawled, grinning at her.

“Stop grinning at me like that, Blaine.”

She slapped my arm again, then walked to the large window. I started to join her, then she whirled around, and strode back to me.

“Am I so unattractive? Why can I not find someone? Someone who’ll love me for me. Not care that I have stretch marks, freckles, and a fat ass,” she practically yelled into my face.

“I like you,” I said.

“I have big boobs, and, and I snore…”

“I think that’s adorable.”

“I snort like a pig when I ugly laugh, and I need glasses to read.”

“I find that sexy as hell, Moira.”

“Christ, am I going to die alone… wait. What did you say?”

I rolled my eyes, then moved on instinct, I grabbed the glass from her hand, yanked her into my arms, and I kissed her.

Sorcha

Enzo let us into the suite, and I never saw it coming. I squealed as I was hoisted from the floor, and he marched into the bedroom. He deposited me on the bed, then swiftly began to remove his jacket and shirt.

I watched him pull out a pair of my tights from my case, and I arched a confused brow. In a flash, he was on top of me, and he grinned like a fucking devil.

“Hands above your head,” he ordered.

“What if I don’t, handsome?” I purred.

Enzo growled like a feral animal, then slapped my hip hard. “What’s my name, you bad girl?” he said.

The sting was delicious, and I did as he’d ordered. “Sorry, daddy,” I replied.

“Good girl,” he said, running his hands up under my dress. “You went to the signing without knickers, lady. So, I’m going to punish you,” then he expertly tied my wrists together, and fastened them to the headboard.

Enzo kissed me roughly, his hand wandering downwards, then his fingers grazed my clit, and I gasped at the heady sensation.

“Oh god, yes.”

“Yes what, my bad girl?” and his finger slipped inside my pussy.

“Fuck, yes daddy,” I moaned.

“Shit, you’re so wet, my dirty little lady. Ride my hand. Let me watch you make yourself come. Then you are going to be fucked so damned hard, fiancèe.”

I did exactly what he ordered me to do, and I moaned and sighed, riding his fingers like a dirty, sex deprived slut.

“You are all mine, you dirty girl. I love watching you come. I fucking love watching you take my cock, and I love that you can be yourself with me.”

“Oh fuck, yes, daddy. I’m going to, yes,” I cried out, and I fell over that heavenly edge, coming hard.

“Good girl, fuck,” he growled.

I gazed up at my fiancè as he continued to tease my extra sensitive clit, then he pulled them out, and stuck his fingers into his mouth, sucking them like a lollipop. My body was trembling, pussy still fluttering with aftershocks, but I didn’t have to worry, as my writer freed his dick, and fisted himself for me. His eyes dilated as he raked them over my body, then he smirked.

“You want my cock, mi amor?”

“Please daddy. I’m desperate for you,” I begged.

Enzo leaned down and he kissed me, claiming my mouth, and I melted into a hot mess, desperate to touch him.

“I fucking love you, mi amor,” then he hoisted my legs into the air.

My ankles were on his shoulders, and I moaned as he ran the tip of his dick through my wetness, then he winked at me, and slammed inside, shunting me up the bed.

“Holy fuck,” fell from me, and Enzo chuckled.

“Oh, I’m not sure about holy, cariño” he drawled, then he leaned over me, pushing his dick even deeper. “But I’m going to fuck you until you scream.”

And my sexy, wonderful writer did exactly that. He fucked me hard and fast, and his hips slammed into my ass cheeks with such force that my head bumped the headboard, and I gasped, giggling.

“Fuck,” I yelped.

Enzo grinned, then he stilled, unfastening my wrists. He kissed me, grinding himself into me. “Sorry, mi amor. Now, hold on tight,” he whispered into my ear, pressing my knees against my chest.

CHAPTER 43

Sorcha

He thrust his dick into me, chasing his own climax. Our sighs, breaths, and grunts, floated around us, and I gripped the headboard as my sexy, talented writer fucked the bloody life out of me.

“Fuck, yes, fuck,” he roared, and he suddenly exploded, grinding himself against me until he was empty.

He dropped my legs, but didn’t pull out, and he kissed me, my own hands now in his soft hair, relishing the feel of his mouth on mine. I sighed happily, and he lifted his head, gazing down at me.

“Now what, daddy?” I purred.

“Now, you bad girl. We still have at least an hour and a half, so I’m going to make you scream until you’re hoarse, my beautiful, sexy fiancèe,” and he started a trail of kisses down over my stomach, hip, and lower…

Moira

Madden Blaine was kissing me, and his hands were on my arse.

Madden fucking Blaine was kissing ME…

I moaned into his lips, my own hands in his dark, luscious hair, then I squeaked when he slipped his tongue into my mouth, and my body went crazy. But, the sensible part of my brain kicked in, and I broke away from the sexy, drop dead gorgeous, famous author.

“Holy fuck, Madden,” I croaked.

“I’ve been dying to kiss you from the moment you walked into Sorcha’s apartment,” he said, pulling me back into his arms.

“You’re a renowned womaniser.”

“Not anymore.”

“Why?”

“Because of you.”

“What?” I gasped. “Why?”

He groaned, and took my face in his hands. “I knew as soon as I laid eyes on you. I want the whole relationship thing with you, Moira.”

My knees buckled, heart fluttering, and I gawked at the sex god holding onto me. He suddenly touched the spot between my brows, and he smiled. But it wasn’t the usual cocky, flirty smirk. It was genuine, tender.

“Are you being serious?” I questioned.

“Deadly, Moira. I want to date you. And only you. You make my heart go fucking nuts everytime you hiss at me, glare, slap me, and then your sexy grin? Holy crap, lady.”

“But…” and he touched my lips with a small chuckle.

He ran his fingers through my hair, eyes gazing into my own, and all fucks flew out of the window, brain shutting down.

“I know, pretty eyes. You have stretch marks. You snore, and snort like a pig. That little snort makes my fucking cock hard. These freckles, and your sexy ass? Fucking stunning,” he said, then he pecked my lips again.

I simply stared at Madden, and he chuckled. His hand took mine, then he led me back to my bedroom, pausing at the door.

“Get a shower. Get dressed up for dinner, then be prepared to be treated like my queen tonight,” he said. He kissed my hand, but I stayed frozen to the spot, watching him walk across the suite. But I needed to know.

“Do you mean that? What you just said?”

He turned as he reached his own bedroom door. His head tilted a little, then he ran a hand through his hair.

“I meant every word, pretty eyes. For the first time in a real long time? I want to do everything right. You can trust me,” then he winked, and disappeared into his own room.

I didn’t move for a few more moments, then I blinked, turned, and scooped up my phone. I found Sorcha’s number, then stopped. They were probably having lots of hot bloody sex. I dropped my phone back onto the bed, then glanced back at the door. My phone, however, pinged, and I looked down to see an unknown number. I swiftly unlocked it, then opened the message.

“Get in the shower, pretty eyes. And Sorcha gave me your number. Mxx”

I rolled my eyes, but I had to smile, saving his number in my contacts, then I quickly undressed and waltzed into the bathroom, heart suddenly lighter, and looking forward to the rest of the evening.

Sorcha

I was dressed in the elegant gown that Enzo had bought for me, and I felt like Cinderella. I smoothed down the deep red skirt of the dress, then Enzo walked from the bathroom, decked out in his signature dark grey suit and white shirt.

He looked so bloody delicious, and he headed right for me. He wrapped me up in his arms, and kissed me lovingly.

“Let’s have fun tonight, mi amor. Just make sure you don’t go anywhere alone, sí?” he whispered, gently caressing my curves.

“Okay,” I replied, enjoying his touches.

We grabbed our phones, and I slipped mine into my small handbag. Enzo touched the small of my back as he led us out of the room, then he took my hand, and we made our way down to the huge convention hall, which was now set up for a lavish dinner, and an evening of dancing.

Moira and Madden were already seated, Raya and Abbi waving us down. Enzo eased me closer as he walked us across the room, and I was engulfed in Moira’s arms.

“Madden wants to date me,” she whispered.

“Shit…”

“Shush.”

“Sorry, but that’s awesome.”

Raya was next, and she took my hand, while Enzo and Madden chatted, along with River and Howard.

“You okay, honey?” she asked.

“I am. Thank you, Raya.”

“No problem,” she whispered.

Abbi giggled suddenly, and a glass of wine was shoved into my hand. “Sorcha, babe. You tell me if that scumbag tries anything,” and she kissed my forehead. “I’ll kick him so hard that his balls will pop out of his nostrils.”

“Holy shit, Abbi,” I gasped, trying to stifle the laughter. I took her free hand, and I gave it a grateful squeeze. “God, thanks so much,” I whispered.

“You’re part of the gang now, bookworm,” Raya replied.

We settled down and had a very delicious meal. I had to do it, and scanned the room, finding Ethan’s cold eyes staring right at me. Enzo was happily chatting to Madden and Kaley, then I heard my phone ping in my bag. I pulled it out, opened my messages, without really paying attention. But I froze at the words on the screen.

“You’re making a fool of yourself, Sorcha. Enzo is using you for publicity. He isn’t interested in you. You put out on your knees, and against a tree? That means he thinks of you as nothing but a fuck toy. I’m also looking forward to the moment you won’t be surrounded by your little band of bodyguards. Then I’m going to slam you up against a wall and make you spread your slutty legs for me too…”

The phone slipped from my hand as a small gasp fell from my lips, and Enzo turned around at the sound.

“Mi amor?” he asked.

“It’s nothing,” I answered, voice no more than a whisper.

Enzo turned fully in his chair, and he moved like lightning, swiping up my phone. I couldn’t breathe as I watched him read the message, then his eyes snapped up, finding Ethan easily.

“Sorcha?” he said, taking my hand.

“Please don’t do anything, Enzo,” I whispered.

“Too late, mi amor. This is a threat,” and he leaned in and kissed me. “Let’s go get a little air.”

He tugged me to my feet, but he leaned down and whispered into Madden’s ear. My eyes inadvertently darted back to the table where Ethan had been sitting.

His chair was empty.

“Let’s go,” Enzo ordered.

We walked out of the huge room, and into the courtyard and gardens. We continued further away from the main building, then Enzo turned to me, gazing at me so tenderly.

“Ti amo, cariño.”

“I love you right back, Enzo.”

“I won’t let him fucking hurt you,” he whispered, stroking my cheek tenderly.

“I know,” I answered, pressing myself against his chest.

The high pitched screams suddenly pierced the silence, and our eyes found a mob of women running at us. They were shouting Enzo’s name, phone’s, pictures, and books in their hands.

“What the fuck?” Enzo growled.

“Enzo,” I exclaimed, as they ran at us.

“Fans aren’t allowed in here. Hold tight to me, cariño.”

They surrounded us in a flash, and our hands were swiftly yanked from each other. Then a cold hand gripped my wrist, the other covering my mouth, and I was dragged backwards, trying to scream Enzo’s name, but I couldn’t.

“Sorcha,” I heard him yell. “cariño?”

But, I was dragged away from the safety of his arms…

CHAPTER 44

Sorcha

Itried to struggle, kicking, flailing my arms around, but I was punched in the stomach after being thrown against a wall. All the air was knocked from me, then his hand came around my throat, squeezing hard.

“You want to act like a slut for him?” Ethan hissed into my ear. “Yet you didn’t organise a meeting for me? You got on your knees for him? But, I had to go elsewhere for any kind of fun. You selfish little slut. You kept Enzo and his contacts all to yourself.”

“I didn’t,” I gasped, but he squeezed my throat tighter.

“Yes, Sorcha. Dirty little bitch. How you managed to land Enzo is beyond me. Plain little you. So, I’m going to have a sample of his little slut.”

He kicked my legs open, and I couldn’t breathe. He was cutting off my air, and I started to feel dizzy, panic and terror crawling over my skin like millions of tiny spiders.

“I’m going to fuck you raw, you selfish little bitch, and you’re going to take all of it,” he growled.

His hand was moving under my dress, and I tried to struggle, slapping his arms, trying to free my throat, but he literally kneed me in the abdomen, and head butted me over my right eye. Pain exploded, causing spots to appear in front of my eyes, nausea erupting in my gut. Terror took over, and my body went into shutdown.

“Behave yourself, you little bitch,” he warned, and tears pooled in my eyes.

His fingers were inside my knickers, then he rammed two fingers into me, and I cried out in pain. It burned so damned much, as though his fingers were made of knives.

“That’s it. Get wet for me, slut. You enjoy it rough don’t you,” he purred.

I simply cried, the pain ringing in my ears, dizziness taking over, and I thought I was about to pass out. I could smell the alcohol on his breath, and I closed my eyes, terror drowning me as he continued to squeeze my throat tighter.

Ethan drunk? My worst nightmare was coming true.

I heard the zipper, and I blinked, tears escaping, rolling down my face. He suddenly slapped my cheek, and I gasped.

“Get ready to be fucked, you dirty little slut,” he fired.

As I prepared myself to be assaulted in the worst way, the pressure suddenly vanished. Muffled sounds floated into my head, but my knees gave way, and I slid down to the floor, sobbing, broken and in pain, but relieved it was over.

Enzo

Her hand was tugged from mine, and I panicked. Women were surrounding me, pulling at my clothes, but I needed my bookworm. My eyes were darting around the courtyard, then I saw Madden and River running towards me with two more security guards.

“Out ladies. This is a private party,” the guards yelled, freeing me from their onslaught.

Madden yanked me from the mob, then he dragged me across the courtyard, River taking the lead as the screams from the fans started dying down.

“River had Kaley and Howard watching Snow,” Madden stated. “We know where he took her.”

“Where?” I questioned.

“There’s a spot that's secluded,” River started.

“Fuck. I know,” I said.

I set off running. Running to the spot that Sorcha and myself had fucked against that tree. I wanted his blood. I needed to hear bones break, then I rounded the corner, and the sight brought down a red fog.

A familiar man pinning a woman against the wall, and I was on him in a flash. I grabbed his jacket, throwing him to the floor. I dived on top of him, my rage clouding my sensibilities. I punched his face, once, twice, and my hands came around his throat, squeezing hard.

“Stop, Enzo,” Madden ordered.

“Get off me,” Snow had the audacity to shriek at me.

“You vile piece of fucking shit,” I roared, then punched him again.

My hand was suddenly halted midair, and I was dragged back onto my feet. I growled, looking to my side. My best friend was gazing at me, his own hand gripping my wrist.

“Take care of Sorcha. We can deal with the trash,” Madden ordered.

I blinked, panting, then I turned to find my beautiful fiancèe in a heap on the floor. I took a deep breath, then raked a hand over my face. I patted my best friend’s shoulder, and strode over to Sorcha. I swiftly lifted my lady off the floor, kissing her forehead.

“Mi amor?”

“Enzo?” she stammered, through her sobs.

“I’m right here, mi amor. I have you,” and I carried her away from the scumbag. “Call the police, River,” I asked, as I passed him.

“Already done, Fuentes. They’ll meet you in your room,” the writer called.

“Gracias.”

I strode with urgency across the lobby, Sorcha clinging to me as she sobbed into my neck. I took the stairs as the adrenaline coursed through my entire body. I wanted to smash Snow into tiny fucking bloodied pieces for assaulting my beautiful lady, and my heart was racing at a million miles a second.

I’d fucking failed to protect her from that vile scumbag, and the guilt weighed heavily on me. So much so that tears welled in my own eyes. I slammed the keycard into the slot, then shoved the door open, aiming for the bedroom. I gently placed her onto our messy bed, then slipped the heels from her feet. I pulled her back into my arms, holding her so damned tightly.

“I’m so fucking sorry, mi amor. I fucking failed you,” I stammered.

Her hand suddenly cupped my cheek, and I gazed down into her tear filled eyes. I swiped at my own, desperately trying to be strong for her.

“I’m so fucking sorry,” I repeated in a whisper.

“Don’t do that, Enzo,” she whispered, voice broken, filled with sadness.

“I failed, cariño,” I croaked.

“No. You saved me, Enzo,” she replied. “Don’t you dare blame yourself.”

I sighed loudly, then I kissed her tenderly, but I needed to know. “Did he hurt you? And please tell me the truth?”

“He hit me,” she whispered.

Rage exploded, and it rang loudly in my ears, but I gritted my teeth, took a deep breath, then cupped Sorcha’s face with my hands.

“Where?” I asked.

“My stomach, and he had his hand around my throat,” she answered. “He headbutted me.”

I had to rub at my temple as my head was pounding now. I tilted her head, and bruising was starting to show. I growled as I touched my forehead against hers, trying to remain calm for her. The one thing I needed to know? Had he violated her? Had he forced himself on my beautiful fiancèe? I took a deep breath in, not ready for the answer.

“Did he touch you?”

“Just his fingers,” she whispered, and the growl that came out of me sounded fucking feral. “It really hurt.”

The knock was loud, and it startled both of us. I kissed Sorcha possessively, then jumped to my feet.

“I’ll be right back, mi amor.”

“Don’t be long,” she croaked.

“Never,” and I kissed her forehead, then walked to the door of the suite.

I looked through the peephole, and two uniformed police officers were in the hallway. I opened the door, and they each gave me a polite nod.

“Mr. Fuentes,” the female officer said.

“Come inside. Sorcha is really shaken up. But I want Snow arrested for sexual assault,” I growled.

“He’s already in custody. He’s looking a little worse for wear, Mr. Fuentes?” she replied.

“He was attacking my fiancèe, officer. He’d already threatened her beforehand, called her names. He deserved it,” I stated.

“We’ll get to that, but we need to speak with Miss Barnes.”

“She’s through here. And I won’t leave her.”

“Of course. But Miss Barnes needs to answer our questions, Mr. Fuentes. Does she have the messages on her phone? As Mr. Snow is saying that it was role play.”

“What? No it fucking wasn’t,” I snapped.

I raked an angry hand through my hair, then stalked to the small bar. I grabbed the whiskey and poured myself and Sorcha a large measure each, then I gestured for the officers to follow.

“Don’t worry Mr. Fuentes. We’ll get to the bottom of this,” she said, touching my shoulder lightly.

“Yes, sorry. I know you will,” I replied, then I led the officers into our bedroom, taking my place beside Sorcha, arm gently wrapped around her waist.

After what felt like an eternity, Sorcha answering questions, then pictures being taken of the marks on her neck, above her right eye, and on her abdomen, which caused me to punch the wall, and stalk out of the room briefly, they asked Sorcha to go to the hospital for an exam. I shook my head, and told them I would take her to my private doctors clinic. I made a few calls, and a police doctor was organised to oversee the exam. We left around an hour later, and I held Sorcha’s hand through the internal exam.

She was silent during the car ride home, and simply huddled into my body. Once we got back to my townhouse, I scooped her from her feet, and carried her to our bedroom. Madden and Moira had brought our luggage from the hotel, so I sat Sorcha on the bed, kissed her lovingly, then ran her a bath.

“Come on, mi amor. Let me take care of you,” I whispered.

“Get in with me? I don’t want to be on my own, Enzo?” she asked.

“Sure thing,” I replied. “I’m not leaving you alone.”

“Where’s Ethan?”

“Not tonight. I want to take care of you, then we can talk tomorrow.”

I undressed her, then myself, and we soaked for around an hour, before drying, then climbed into bed to try and sleep.

Madden

Moira was laid out on her sofa, glass of wine in her hand. I sat on the chair, swirling whiskey around my glass, watching my sexy redhead.

“Thanks, Madden,” she finally said.

“For?”

“Not leaving me alone. After what happened to Sorcha,” and she paused.

I stood and walked to the sofa. I gently lifted her legs and sat, resting them on my lap. I picked up my glass again, then took a large gulp.

“You can go to bed, pretty eyes. I’ll be right here on the sofa. It’s gone four,” I said.

Moira’s beautiful green eyes found mine, and I had to admit that I loved it when she gazed at me. A real cute little crease appeared between her brows, and it made my heart beat faster.

“What is it?” I asked, smiling, and taking a sip of my drink.

“You’re not going to try and have sex with me?”

I almost choked on the mouthful of whiskey in my mouth, and after a small bout of coughing, I chuckled.

“Why are you laughing?” she fired at me, sitting up.

“Because, well, I don’t want to ruin this, Moira. I meant it when I said I wanted a relationship. A real, grown up relationship. I don’t want a quick bang and run.”

She stared at me in surprise, then I was slapped on the arm. “No. No sofa. I need to have you next to me, Blaine. Just to hold onto. I don’t want to be on my own after what happened tonight.”

I put down my glass, stood up, then pulled my sexy redhead to her feet. My hands cupped her beautiful face, and I kissed her.

It was confident, possessive, and I claimed her soft lips as mine. Moira melted into me, her arms snaking around my waist, and I sighed into her mouth, sweeping my tongue inside, circling hers.

“Fuck,” she gasped, once I released her.

“Only when you want to,” I growled into her ear, kissing her neck.

“Very bloody funny,” she fired, shoving me backwards.

I grinned at Moira, then eased her back into my arms, holding her as close as I could get this beautiful lady. She frowned up at me, then a huge yawn fell from her.

“Shit, sorry,” she muttered.

“Don’t be. That was adorable. And it tells me that you really need sleep,” I whispered. “Let’s go to bed… to get some sleep.”

My phone pinged, and I groaned, rolling over to retrieve it. As I did, my heart went fucking nuts at the divine sight beside me. Moira St. James was laid on her stomach, one hand under the pillow, the other right beside me. Her red hair framed her beautiful face, and I was one hundred percent head over heels in love with this woman.

I grabbed my phone, and the message was from Enzo. They were both at his place, and I had to smile at the next words. Ethan fucking Snow had been charged with assault, the sexual aspect still pending. I fired off a quick reply, then I brought my attention back to the woman who’d swiftly stolen my heart.

It was only just gone eight thirty, and we’d only managed around four hours sleep, but I was wired and unable to sleep for two reasons. Firstly, I was over the fucking moon to be waking up with Moira again. Secondly? I had a huge fucking boner.

I leaned down and kissed Moira’s right temple, then carefully climbed out of bed. I walked to the bathroom, and emptied my bladder. And that was a task in itself due to my morning bloody wood.

I washed my hands, took a swig of cold water from the tap, then tiptoed downstairs to make much needed caffeine. I found the coffee mugs, then switched on the half full kettle.

“Can you make one for me too, sexy ass?” and I whirled around to find my redhead dressed in a very short nightshirt, curvaceous legs on show, and I was hard all over again.

Epilogue

Eight weeks later.

Enzo

Sorcha was standing in a very empty looking apartment, and I wrapped my arms around her from behind, dropping a soft kiss at the base of her neck. It had taken my fiancèe three weeks before she instigated sex, after what that son of a bitch had done to her. After a very loving session, I’d asked her to move in with me, and she had literally jumped on me, kissing every inch of my body.

“It looks so bloody strange,” she muttered.

“And huge,” Moira piped up from the kitchen doorway.

Harrison, Daniel, and Madden sauntered back inside, after depositing the last of the boxes into the moving van, and Sorcha turned in my arms. I gazed down at my future, and kissed her. Raya and Abbi had already vanished, as they wanted to organise a moving-in party for the two of us.

“I can’t believe that I’m moving in with you, Enzo,” Sorcha said, pressing herself against me.

“Neither can I, mi amor.” I replied, taking her hand.

The white gold band of her engagement ring sat above the eternity ring, and it had a single sapphire adorning it. I had taken Sorcha ring shopping a few days after the incident at the convention, and it had put that beautiful smile back onto her face.

“Half the fucking van is full of books,” Daniel drawled from the kitchen doorway, hugging his husband.

“Very funny, shithead,” Sorcha fired back.

Madden had gone straight to Moira, and they looked so damned happy. I was thrilled for my best friend, as he finally deserved love. And Moira would keep him on his toes too.

“Shall we get going?” I asked.

“I guess we should. I have to give David the key back too,” she replied.

Everyone filed out of the empty living room, and Sorcha closed the door, locking it behind us. Harrison and Daniel climbed into the moving van, Moira and Madden into his flash red Lamborghini.

“We’ll meet you at your place, Effie,” Madden called.

“Okay, Blaine,” I drawled.

They quickly departed, but I found an amused lady gazing up at me. I pulled her back into my arms, caressing her cute little ass, then pecked her lips lightly.

“What is this cheeky smirk for?” I asked.

“I have to ask, handsome. Effie?”

I chuckled, taking her hand in mine, and leading her to my own fancy car. I unlocked it, then opened up the door. She slipped inside, and I quickly joined her behind the wheel.

“My initials, mi amor. Raya started it, and it stuck,” I replied, and I winked before starting the engine, and driving my fiancèe to our home.

I handed Sorcha her own set of keys, then stepped aside to allow her to unlock the front door. She looked like a kid in a candy shop with limitless funds, and it made my heart beat faster.

“Go ahead, cariño,” I encouraged.

“This is so bloody weird, and exciting,” she said, then slipped the key into the lock.

“True, but you’ve made me the happiest guy on the planet,” and I allowed her inside after she swung the door open.

I took her hand, then kissed her lips. I had a surprise for my little bookworm, so I led her to my office and study. As we reached the door, I stopped.

“I have a surprise for you, so I need you to close your eyes.”

“Why?”

“Just close them for me?” I asked, grinning down at her.

Sorcha rolled her eyes, but smiled back at me. I placed my hand on the handle of the closed door, and simply waited for her to do as I asked.

“Bloody hell, Enzo,” she groaned, then those dark brown eyes flickered shut.

“Good girl,” I growled into her ear, and that earned me a slap on the arm.

I chuckled, then pushed down on the handle, and swung it open. I walked her into the centre of the room, turning her towards my surprise.

“Now, open them, my beautiful little bookworm.”

Sorcha did as I asked, then a gasp fell out of her as she saw the wall of empty bookshelves. She whirled around with a huge, beaming smile on her face.

“Is this for me?” she asked.

“Sì, cariño. The books from your apartment will go over there with my own. This wall is for you to fill up with more,” I answered.

“Oh my god,” she exclaimed, and I was literally jumped on. “Thank you, thank you. God, I love you so bloody much, Fuentes.”

I laughed loudly, as my hands cupped her sexy ass, her legs wrapped around my waist. Her mouth captured mine, and I kissed this stunning woman.

“Guessing you’re happy with your surprise.”

“It’s fucking awesome,” she gushed, leaving a trail of kisses down my neck.

I walked to the extra sofa that I’d bought for her, and sat down, Sorcha remaining straddled on my lap. I ran my hands over her spine, kissing her again.

I would never tire of the feeling of her lips on mine, but the way she was subtly rocking her hips? It was causing my cock to stir in my pants.

“Jesus Christ, mi amor. You keep that up? I’m going to have to fuck you right here,” I growled.

“Do it,” she purred into my ear. “Fuck me, daddy.”

“Mierda,” I gasped, then freed my cock. “Sit down, you bad girl,” I ordered.

Sorcha giggled, then dived off my lap. I watched her shimmy out of her black knickers, then she climbed back on, lining her pussy with my shaft.

“Sit down. Ride me until we both come.”

“I love you,” she whispered, then lowered herself onto me, and my head fell back against the sofa cushions, as her pussy squeezed me so fucking beautifully.

“Shit,” I hissed. “Good girl,” and I grabbed her hips.

I didn’t hesitate, and I hungrily rocked her back and forth, chasing my release. Sorcha’s head dropped onto my shoulder, relaxing, giving me complete control, and her sighs and moans fuelled my own grunts and gasps.

“Oh god, Enzo,” she cried out, hands gripping my shoulders, back arching as she started thrusting too.

“Good girl,” I praised. “That’s it. Make yourself come with just my cock.”

“Yes, daddy,” she moaned louder, and the way she called me that caused my own to flicker to life. “Yes, ohmygodyes,” she gasped.

I couldn’t take my eyes from my fiancèe as she arched, eyes closing, lips parted as she rocked over me. I met her movements with my own, then I felt it growing, and I groaned, yanking her harder into me.

“Fuck, I’m close. Come. Come for me,” I growled through gritted teeth.

I leaned her backwards with one hand braced at the back of her neck. My other hand flew downwards, and my fingers found her clit. I started teasing her, desperate to fucking explode, but I wanted her to coat my cock with her own climax first.

“Oh god,” she yelped, thrusting faster. “Yes, fuck, yes, daddy, yes,” and her body went rigid, trembling, her pussy squeezing my cock like a vice, over and over as she came.

As I watched her come undone, I exploded too, grinding her over me until I was completely empty.

“I fucking love watching you come, mi amor. You look so fucking beautiful,” I growled into her ear, kissing her. “Ti amo.”

“I love you too, daddy,” she whispered into my own ear.

Voices suddenly rang out, followed by the slam of the front door, and Sorcha dived from my lap with a high pitched squeal. Swiping up her knickers, her eyes darted to the door, and I had to chuckle as I tucked my semi hard cock away.

“We’re in here,” I called, once Sorcha had her underwear back on, and I lounged happily where I sat.

She looked adorable, all flustered with flushed cheeks, and slightly messy hair. She walked back to the sofa, then her eyes noticed the small table with a picture frame standing proudly on it. She picked it up, and her eyes widened at the photograph inside.

“Who took this?” she asked.

“Maisie. She sent it to me a week after the convention.”

It was a beautiful moment of the happiest of my life, and I had to have it framed for my Sorcha. I had her in my arms, twirling her around, and the biggest grin on my face. Maisie was a photographer and artist as well as an author, and she had blurred the crowds around us.

Sorcha’s yellow dress swirled around her, and our eyes were locked on each other, nothing but love in them.

“This is so…” then her eyes came to mine.

“You look fucking stunning, mi amor,” I said.

Our peace was shattered, however, as our friends came barrelling into the room, Abbi and Raya holding bottles of fizz and glasses. Sorcha kept the picture in her hand as she sat herself onto my lap. I glanced around the room, and I had to smile contentedly. For the first time in my life, my player heart had been taken… completely.

Sorcha Barnes had appeared in my life, and taken every part of me. My heart, my soul, and she completed me like no other woman had ever done. She understood me. Kept me on my fucking toes, and I was going to make her my wife.

“Te amo, Sorcha,” I whispered, as laughter and chatter echoed around us.

“Te amo right back, Enzo bloody Fuentes,” she replied.

The End…

Acknowledgements

Ihope you have enjoyed the story of Enzo and Sorcha. But, there are a few people I have to thank before you go. Because, without them, this book wouldn’t have been possible.

To K. L. Thorne for the beautiful book cover. You always go above and beyond to make it as perfect as possible.

Thank you.

Will from FIVERR for formatting. He is always super professional, and also goes above and beyond to make sure my book is ready for both ebook, and paperback. Will also adds that extra touch at the start of each chapter.

To the amazing group of ARC readers, and BETA readers, for choosing to take a chance on my books. Thank you for such amazing reviews and support. You have no idea just how much it means to me.

Finally, to my family. Thank you for your ongoing support and understanding.

I’m an Indie Author. Once the exciting part is done - the creative side - I have to do all the editing myself. So, my family have a lot to put up with.

And I cannot thank you, the readers, enough. Thank you for taking a chance on my sweet & spicy contemporary romance.

Without you? I wouldn’t be here.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Shalleen.

About The Author

Shalleen is a Yorkshire lass, who grew up in Barnsley, then settled in West Yorkshire. She trained as a dancer, graduating from the Northern School of Contemporary Dance in Leeds. Shalleen also qualified as both a Personal Trainer and a Zumba instructor.

Her passions are the arts, fitness, and all things creative. Dance, drama, singing (Not well), films, and Tv shows. She is a huge fan of Star Wars, and Criminal Minds. And of course, reading. Shalleen has always enjoyed getting stuck into all kinds of genres of books. But, in 2020, during lockdown, and becoming a little frustrated with some of the stories she was reading, she decided to pick up a notepad and pen, and the rest is history.

Now, Shalleen has four Paranormal fantasy books under her belt, and more in the works from the series. She also has a contemporary spicy romance duo available now. All of her books are written in British English, and contain a dollop of spice, swearing, banter, emotion, some humour, and love.

There are many more stories in the making, so keep an eye out for new releases, but Shalleen is truly grateful to every person that takes a chance on her books.

Thank you.

Shalleen.

Other Titles by The Author

Paranormal Fantasy Series.

Her Lost Alpha: Book 1.

His Vampire Luna: Book 2.

Fires of His Heart: Damon’s Story: Book 3.

His Little Blackbird: A Flashback Novella: Book 4.

Books 5 to 7: Coming soon.

Coming soon: A Raven’s Choice.

Contemporary Romance.

Romance Duo.

Falling All Over Again: Part 1

Second Chances: Part 2

Standalone.

His Player Heart Taken.

Coming Soon:

Stolen

Coffee, Pucks & Romance

Jacob & Elijah: An Age Gap MM Romance: (Working Title)