Page 115 of Enemies with Benefits

“What are you going to do today?” I ask, my teeth grazing her nipple.

“Go to work. See if Jenny wants to hang. Shit. . .” she moans as I bite down.

“Try again.”

“Work, home, bed. Naked and waiting. Do more of that.”

The mention of work spoils my appetite. I regret taking the shift for Abel, but I owe him. “Speaking of. . .” I press a quick kiss to her lips. “If I go any further, neither of us will leave this bed.”

“You say that like it’s a bad thing.”

“There’s nothing bad about feasting on you all day. But today, getting answers and making sure you’re not in danger is my first priority.”

She rolls her eyes. “Okay, Dad.”

A deep growl rolls off my tongue. I dip low and take her earlobe into my mouth, then whisper, “That’s brother dearest to you. . .”

Chapter35

Makayla

I don’t knowhow I’m going to make it through work all day. For a minute there, I thought mybrotherwas going to give in and throw us back in bed. His dominance when he wants something is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. It’s sexy, intense, and so darn swoon-worthy. I’m not one to take orders from a man, but holy-melting-panties does Ben do it with such finesse. His demands are sugary sweet treats, and I’m a kid with a sugar tooth, ready and willing.

But he was right. We both needed to go to work. Now, I’m here, daydreaming like a teenage schoolgirl about the future and possibilities. In all that went down last night, I never got to tell him about the job. And this morning, he was too concerned with making sure I steer clear of Jenny. Since Ben was so adamant, I’m letting him win this one. I’m sure it will all get cleared up, and he can get off this train of not liking her.And the fib about the ex?Well, there is that. Why would she go out of her way to lie to Ben like that? I know she likes him, but would she interfere and cause trouble like that? The last time we spoke about Ben, she didn’t seem like his biggest fan.

I shake my head. This is silly. She didn’t set the fire, and she’s not sabotaging my relationship. I’m just tired, and all things Ben are in my head. The children return from lunch, and I spend the rest of the day focused on cutting construction paper, learning about frogs, and counting how many fingers and toes we have. When the end of the day finally approaches, I gather backpacks and line everyone up.

“Remember to tell your moms and dads about the field trip permission slips.”

“My mommy is in Mexico with her girlfriend. Can I ask my nanny?”

I pat Elizabeth on the head. “You sure can. Everyone, have a great rest of your day.”

Once all the children disperse, I go back to my desk and pull my phone from my drawer. I have a missed call from Hannah and a text from Ben.

Ben: Fire right before shift ended. Carpool with Mary. She’ll drop you at the station. You can ride me home from there.

I snicker at his innuendo and smile, shaking my head. I could really get used to this treatment. I may stall a bit longer getting a new car. Grabbing my work bag, I shut my light off and walk down the hall to the office. This giddy feeling is new for me, and I never want it to end. Aunt Karen pops into my mind. I can’t wait to call her and update her on my life. That poor woman has sat through way too many Ben Wallace rants. She’s going to fall out of her chair when she gets the latest update.

I reach the office and walk in. “Hey, Christine. Is Mary still here?”

“Of course, but she’s in a meeting.”

“That’s fine. I’ll wait.” I take a seat and pull out my phone. I’m texting Ben back when a call interrupts. Jenny. My finger hovers over the answer button.Oh, just answer it.Friend or not, she tried to sabotage my relationship. Lying like that is not cool. Did she think I wouldn’t find out? That Ben would come home, believe her lies, send me packing, and run into her arms?Well, it almost sent you packing.I groan at the horrible fight. All because she lied. Screw this.

“Hey,” I answer.

“Thank God you answered. Hey, can we talk?” Her voice is laced with guilt.

“Um. . . sure. What’s up?”

Jenny releases a dramatic sigh. “Mak, I’m so sorry. I did something yesterday I’m so ashamed of.”

Her confession surprises me. Then again, I respect her honesty. She’s not a bad person. She has feelings, and people make mistakes. “I know. It was probably not the coolest thing to do. I thought you were my friend. Lying to Ben like that, that’s messed up, Jenny.”

“I know. And I’m so ashamed, but I have to tell you why I did it.”

“Okay. . .”

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