Page 36 of Stepbrothers

“Clarice.” He frowned. “You’ve told Parker and me that you’ve been fucking random strangers. That means you’ve put yourself at risk.”

“The bloody nerve of you.” She stood. Naked from the waist down and damp between her thighs. “You don’t want to fuck me because you think I’ll infect you.”

“No, not at all.” He plucked a green wrapped condom from his wallet. Held it up between them. “I could use this.”

“Parker didn’t use one.” She frowned.

“Hence he’ll also get checked out this week. I guess he got caught up in the moment. That was unlike him to take a risk.”

“It’s not as though I don’t have regular health checks. I do. And nine times out of ten I use a condom, too.”

“I’m pleased to hear it. But we want you to use our private clinic. The appointment is at three o’clock tomorrow afternoon. We’ll be picking up the bill.”

“I’m not going.” She folded her arms.

“You are, and I’ll call the clinic’s reception desk at one minute past three, and if you’re not there, I’ll come get you out of work, carry you to the damn appointment kicking and screaming if I have to.” His tone was deadly serious.

She pouted. “You wouldn’t dare.”

“Try me.” He tucked his wallet away. “I have to go but I’ll see you at the weekend.”

“Weekend?”

“I believe the honeymooners have requested our presence for Sunday dinner on their return.”

“Fuck.” She scowled.

“That’s not very nice, Clarice. Family gatherings are fun.” He pointed at her. “Appointment tomorrow, and call your landlord,andget that PGCE form sent off. All of those things before I see you next. Are we clear?”

“I’ll do my best.”

“No, you’lldoall of those things. It’s not a request, it’s an order.” And with that, he turned and held up his right hand. “I’ll let myself out. Have a nice evening.”

He strode from the room. The front door opened then closed with a click.

“It’s not a request it’s an order,” she said in a mocking, high-pitched voice. “Bloody cheek.” She walked to the kitchen and poured a glass of wine. Took a gulp. Hugh was maddening. Sexy, irritating, gorgeous, and maddening. He’d waltzed into her flat, with a gift, given her one heck of an orgasm—an oral one at that, which was always a treat—and then left her both satisfied and irritated.

Her stepbrothers were not turning out to be anything like she’d expected.

The next afternoon, after being prodded and poked, swabbed, and having three vials of blood drawn, Clarice walked back into the café.

“You okay?” Beryl asked.

“Yes, thanks.” Clarice smiled.

Derek had called in sick, and the company who owned the café had sent cover in the shape of Beryl. A kindly older woman who actually helped make the coffee. She’d turned out to be a godsend and had no problem with Clarice nipping out to the clinic.

“Get yourself a drink and take a minute out back, it’s not exactly busy at the moment.”

“Thanks. I appreciate it.” Clarice slipped into the back room and poured a glass of water. The day was warm.

Her phone vibrated.

Sharon and I are hitting Pizza Express tonight. Can’t be arsed to cook. Want to join? 7.30.

Sure, sounds perfect

Fab. Can’t wait to hear all about the wedding xx

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