Page 8 of Cherishing Little Charlee

I was pretty sure Haven thought the world of her, and that they were friends, but I didn’t mention it. “Let me help you, sweetheart. I won’t look,” I promised, trying to ease whatever her concerns were.

“Where’s the fun in that?” Charlee arched one perfectly styled brow.

“Tread carefully, brat. We already have a bunch of things to discuss tomorrow. I can add in some discipline. Just know that it won’t necessarily be the reaction you’re seeking.” If I were to guess, my sweet friend could benefit from a long trip over my knee. However, without delving into the topic at hand, I was guessing again. I thought I made it clear that I was dominant in my relationships, but there was more to it than that.

“Please come in, Pierce. I really can’t get this stupid bra off easily. Once the swelling and pain ease up on my wrist, I’ll have more mobility.”

Charlee bit her lip as she stepped over the threshold. I followed her, my mind wondering what those full lips would taste like. What they’d look like wrapped around my cock. Pushing the thoughts away, I admired her curves as she babbled. Charlee pointed out the things that were important to her in the apartment. The decorations were bright, unique. Bold statements while still exuding warmth. I could picture myself lounging around with her, watching movies and cuddling on her couch.

“Does ten a.m. work? I don’t have any pressing projects or a deadline other than what I’ve been working on for the production.” I didn’t add that once I told Colt my priority needed to be Charlee I knew he’d move any and all obstacles to ensure it happened. At least until the spring performance was over and her wrist was healed. She needed me even if she wouldn’t admit it yet.

“Yeah, but I’m worried about a lot of things. It’s not that my wrist is a huge inconvenience. It’s just that it will be harder to accomplish what I need to.”

She turned into her bedroom then paused, spinning around on her heel.

“What’s wrong now, Charlee?”

“I don’t usually invite men into my bedroom. I wasn’t planning on having a guest.”

“It’s okay, sweetheart. Let me help you with your bra. I’ll close my eyes if you want me to.”

“How can you unhook my bra without looking?”

“Practice,” I said laughing. “Turn around.”

Charlee fretted her bottom lip in between her teeth but did as I said. Reaching under her shirt so I didn’t expose her, I undid the hooks on her silky-smooth bra. I’d love to look at it, admire the way it cupped her gorgeous breasts but there would be plenty of time for that later. Dropping my hand, I worked the strap down her left arm first so I’d have more leverage for the hand with the splint. Switching to her right side, I slid the bra off completely and dropped it onto her bed.

“You did that blind. I’m honestly incredibly surprised.”

“Eh, well, it’s a neat party trick,” I said off-handedly. “I’m good at working with my hands.” She hadn’t moved out of my arms, and the closeness made me want to wrap myself around her.

“I bet you are.” Charlee laughed but for once it didn’t sound like she was poking for more attention.

“Would you like me to hunt down your meds while you get comfortable?”

“That’s okay. I’ll be okay now. I appreciate your help tonight, Pierce.”

She glanced up at me, her gorgeous blue-gray eyes sparkling as the fairy lights dangling around her room lit them up. Shelooked like a magical imp. A sassy, bratty imp but magical all the same.

“I’m glad you’re okay, Charlee. Your production isn’t going to be delayed. We’ll figure out a plan. Trust me.” Hugging her from behind, I reluctantly stepped away.

“All right. I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Try not to get caught in your head. Get some rest, sweetheart.” She led me back through her apartment until we reached the front door. If we were on a date, which we were not, it would be a great time to kiss her. Instead, I stepped out into the hallway.

“Good-night, Pierce.”

“Sweet dreams, Charlee.”

Leaving the apartment, I tried not to get caught up in my thoughts again. When I’d seen her falling off that ladder, my heart had nearly come out of my chest. Charlee had no idea how scared I’d been. All I had been able to think about was moving faster so I could catch her. I’d failed to do so, something that irritated me. Luckily, she’d trusted me enough to handle the scary visit to the doctor without much pushback. I hoped her opinion of me didn’t change when I told her about my anxiety. It was a dumb thought because lots of people dealt with it. The bigger issue was my hesitations about getting into a romantic entanglement of any sort. While I’d not been actively seeking a relationship, evidently my subconscious knew it was the right time. My mind also recognized I’d only be truly happy with a submissive partner of my own, and Charlee seemed to fit the bill. If only she’d stop battling me long enough to give us a chance to prove it to her. And to myself.

CHAPTER 2

CHARLEE

I slept better last night after Pierce brought me to urgent care than I had in months. No—years. Even with a throbbing wrist and a heap of concerns about how I was going to handle the production, I felt more rested. Two loud knocks sounded on my door. Checking my outfit in my full-length mirror, I smoothed the soft sweater down over my hips. The powder-blue color made my eyes pop. It paired well with my navy leggings and brown knee-high boots. My hair reached well past my bra band, long, wavy and damp from my shower. I’d opted for no make-up save for a swipe of light pink gloss on my lips. Not a date, I reminded myself. But Pierce had flirted last night. Who was I kidding? We flirted often even though I refused to read into his behaviors.

Another knock sounded against the front door jarring me out of my thoughts. “Coming!” Half jogging to my door, I twirled the doorknob open and fought the urge to gasp. Pierce leaned against the doorjamb, one hand flat against the top. His stance caused me to inadvertently press myself closer to him. Admiring his warm, whiskey-brown eyes for a few seconds, I tore my gaze away but not before seeing his dark blue jeans and button-downflannel. I loved his worn leather bomber jacket that gave him that bad boy energy. He wasn’t a bad boy though. No, he had a heart of gold.

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