Page 26 of Willow

“I knew it! I kept telling myself it was the new car smell, but I knew it was so much more. It smells like you.”

When it comes to this girl, I have no self-control. Cupping her face, I dive in for a long awaited kiss. I don’t give a fuck who’s watching, I need to taste her before I leave. I want her scent to last until I see her again.

She’s breathless when I pull away. “I have a heavy schedule for the rest of the week. I might not see you until Friday. You good with that?” I’m a cocky asshole and if she said yes, my ego will be bruised.

“No, but I don’t have a choice. It’s one of the pitfalls of waiting for the Boss Man.” Oh, how I’d love to spank her ass every time she calls me that. I wonder what she’d do if I did? Maybe one day, I’ll have the pleasure of finding out.

LUST

Lust’spassion will be served; it demands, it militates, it tyrannizes.

Marquais De Sade

16

WILLOW

The week fliesby and before you know it, it’s Friday. You might think I was going away for a few weeks since I packed so much. In all fairness, I don’t know how to dress, so I wanted to bring along a variety. Just in case we go out somewhere fancy, I wanted to be prepared. And I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous. I’m petrified. I don’t know how I feel about Caleb and where this is all headed. All I know is I get the warm fuzzies when I’m with him.

I waited until the last minute to tell Mom I was going. I was surprised, she took it rather well. Then my conspiracy brain conjured up all kinds of crazy scenarios. Like she has a boyfriend and can’t wait to spend the weekend with him. Hey, like I’ve said a zillion times, I’d be so happy if she did. She’s too young and beautiful to be alone for the rest of her life.

I was going to meet Caleb at the penthouse, but he shot that down really quick. Said he didn’t want me leaving my car there for the weekend. I don’t know why since they have all kinds of cameras and surveillance equipment. Oh well, I wasn’t going to argue. It would have been a waste of time anyway. So, I’m sitting here waiting for him to pick me up. He texted earlier to let me know it would be around six. It’s now quarter of and the butterflies have come to settle. It’s not a bad feeling, it’s just frightening.

Since I can’t sit still, I check to make sure I have my phone charger and all of my personal products. I’ve no doubt the hotel will have all the amenities I’ll need. And, I could travel lighter but I enjoy my own things. I’m zipping up my suitcase for the hundredth time when there’s a knock on the front door. Thankfully, Mom’s not home so it won’t be awkward this time around.

No matter how scary this weekend might be, I’m looking forward to it. I’m stoked I’ll be one of the judges who makes someone’s dream come true. I know firsthand what that feels like, and it’s difficult to put into words.

My breath hitches when I open the door. This man is so fucking sexy, he takes my breath away. “You’re early, Boss Man.”

Without warning, Caleb frames my face in his large hands and dives in for a taste. He sweeps his tongue over my lips and I eagerly open for him. It’s greedy and passionate and has my toes curling in my shoes. “I’d rather be early than late. You ready to go?” he whispers against my lips.

“Absolutely. Let’s do this!” I turn to retrieve my luggage and he beats me to it.

“We’re only going for the weekend, love. It’s heavy enough for weeks on end.” Men, they just don’t get it. Women need more than a suit that’s interchangeable with a few fresh shirts. Along with socks and underwear.

Locking the door behind me, I slide into the front seat while Caleb throws my bags in the trunk. He’s frowning when he slides in next to me. “I would have opened the door for you.”

“Much appreciated. I’m more than capable of doing that myself. Seriously, I appreciate all of your gentlemanly ways but it’s not necessary.” Maybe it’s my generation and all. I just like doing things myself. With the exception of looking for a car. Caleb took all the guesswork out of that decision for me. And I love my car!

“I like doing things for you. It’s just my nature.” He reaches for my hand and threads his fingers with mine. I settle my other hand on top. “We have reservations for eight. Which should give us plenty of time to freshen up. We’ll be dining with the other judges since it’s expected. After we’re finished, I’ll escort you to your room since I have a late meeting. I’ll pick you up for breakfast in the morning. Remember, Willow, discretion is key.”

Not going to lie. I’m disappointed. It is what it is. Being the head of the Battle of the Bands, I knew he’d have more responsibilities. I’m just a stupid judge, so whatever.

We make small talk on the drive there and I do what I do best. I nod, agreeing with what he’s telling me, and by the time we arrive at the hotel, I’ve checked out. I’m not sure how I expected the weekend to go but it wasn’t like this.

Once I’m alone in my room, I question why I’m here. Until I hear the click on the other side of the door. Caleb unlocked the adjoining doors. He wants me to be his dirty little secret. I do understand he’s protecting the both of us, but is this the kind of relationship I want? Always hiding in dark corners and copping a feel under the table. I don’t think so.

Grabbing my bag, I rush into the bathroom to take a shower. I don’t think he would walk through the doors without my consent. He told me he wouldn’t and I trust him. Nevertheless, I lock my door because I don’t want any surprises.

The evening goes well. The conversation flows and all of the other judges make me feel at home. It’s more than I expected and so grateful. At first, I was a little intimidated. No more. We laugh, exchange stories, and when it comes to an end, Caleb makes good on his promise by walking me to my door. He then disappears into his room for the night.

An excellent reminder to be careful what you wish for.

* * *

CALEB

By the timeI get back to my hotel room, it’s one in the morning. I’m exhausted and I want nothing more than to collapse on that bed and fall fast asleep. Hopefully, I won’t toss and turn like every other night.

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