Because of You Read online

  “Dad what are you doing?” She walks over to me, lightly touching my jaw. She turns to glare at her father.

  "You have no right to come into his home and assume that we have slept together! OH, believe me I did everything I could think of to seduce him but he turned me down. You know why, because he respects you too much to take advantage of me! Now you owe him an apology." She walks over, kissing me lightly on the jaw. She mouths "I'm sorry," before storming out the door.

  Walking over to the freezer I pull out a bag of frozen corn and place it on my jaw. I pull out a beer while I’m there and guzzle half of it.

  “I knocked on her bedroom door this morning. When she didn’t answer, that’s when I realized she hadn’t slept in her bed. I knew she had to be here. She was furious with me because I hadn’t invited you to the party. ” He rubs his hands over his face.

  “What do you want me to say, Scott? We have this connection that even I can’t explain. I know it’s too soon and that’s why I didn’t let it go any further last night, but I can’t keep denying what I feel for her. ” I might have just signed my ticket out of here, but I’m not going to lie to him.

  “It’s not that I don’t think you’re a good man; you’ve proven that to me many times. It’s just that I was eighteen when Riley was born. That’s too young to make that kind of commitment, believe me, I know. I want her to experience life, go to college and have fun before deciding to settle down. ” He’s concerned I’ll break her heart, just like he did.

  “I’m sorry I punched you and if you want to press charges I know a really good lawyer. ” He grins at me as he heads for the door.

  “Scott, I know you want her to date that Parker dude so I won’t stand in her way. But she’ll be back and when she does, I might not be able to say no next time.” I shrug my shoulders.

  He stops dead in his tracks, turns around and says, “I know how she feels about you; she’s made that clear several times. All I ask is that the two of you are cautious, use protection, and get tested for STDs if you think it’s necessary. ” With that said, he leaves.

  Damn, I had to hurry if I was going to make it to work on time. This week was going to be a bitch, being a holiday everyone takes this as their vacation week. It’s going to be packed on the beach with all the families that come down here. I’m ready to head out the door when I realize I drank a beer this morning. Fuck.

  Grabbing my phone I text Connor to see if he can cover for me.

  Me: can u cover for me, I had a beer this morning.

  Connor: U owe me big time ass. Why u go do that 4.

  Me: long story tell u later. Thanks.

  Connor: I could use the extra money anyway, call u later.

  Needing coffee desperately I head downstairs to see Rosie. When I open the kitchen door the smell of coffee has my mouth watering. “Morning Rosie, mind if I snatch a cup of your famous coffee?” I saunter over, giving her a peck on the cheek.

  She smiles at me while handing me a cup. “Morning Hunter; help yourself to the French toast that’s in the warming dish by the stove. What happened to your face?” She lightly touches my jaw.

  “I was attacked by a soccer ball. No big deal. I’ll take some to go, if that’s all right. I’m going to do my laps before I eat, that way Paul won’t have to clean the pool. ” Winking at her I head out the door.

  I’m relaxing in the chair while finishing my coffee when my mind wanders to the first day I saw Riley sitting in this chair. One of the first things I remember was her breasts spilling out over the top of her bikini. Then my eyes ran down the length of her body, taking in her taut belly and her long shapely legs, ending with her pink toes. When my eyes scrolled back up every delicious inch of her, I met her gaze and was captivated.

  Heading over to the pool I dive in as I think of a song that’s been playing in my head for days now. “Demons” by Imagine Dragons. I’m concentrating on the lyrics as I glide through the water when I realize that Riley might be the only one who can save me from myself.

  Chapter Ten

  Riley

  I’m so angry at my dad right now. He punched Hunter! He has no right to judge me when he walked out on us all those years ago. Just because he’s footing the bill for college doesn’t give him the right to keep me under his thumb.

  With my mom she didn’t beat around the bush. I had a place to live, clothes on my back and food to eat. But the one thing I so desperately needed was her love, which walked out the door with my father the day he left.

  I wanted to be open and honest with Hunter last night, especially after he had told me about losing his family. So I told him about my childhood, how my sadness and loneliness had almost destroyed me. Until Ashley and her mom moved next door, becoming the family I so desperately needed.

  As I opened up to him last night, Hunter held me tightly against his chest and played with my hair. He wiped away my tears with a sweep of his thumb as they slid down my cheeks, replacing them with tender kisses. I remember him laying me down on the couch and telling me to get some sleep. When he laid down next to me he pulled me close as we fell asleep in each other’s arms.

  After spending the night with Hunter, the last thing I want to do is go out with Parker. I’m sure we don’t have anything in common. I grew up without a dad and I have a mother who didn’t know I existed; he had the love of two parents and siblings.

  Putting on a nice pair of jean shorts and a light blue tank top I slip on a pair of comfy sandals just in case we do a lot of walking. Looking in the mirror I consider putting on a bit of makeup but settle on a touch of lip gloss instead. I’m so not high maintenance like all the girls I went to school with back home. The doorbell rings just as I’m heading down the stairs.

  “I got it,” I yell to no one in particular. When I open the door Parker’s leaning on the door frame with a dozen coral roses and a cheerful smile. Damn, the boy brought me flowers.

  “If I remember correctly, you did mention that roses were your favorite flower. ” He bends down kissing my cheek.

  “I can’t believe you remembered. Thank you so much, they’re beautiful. Come in and sit while I give these to Rosie to put in water, then we can leave. ” As I walk away, I realize I have to have the friends only talk.

  After I hand the flowers over to Rosie while she squeals with delight, I head back into the living room.

  “Are you all set to leave or did you want to hang out by the pool?” I sit down on the recliner so I’m not too close to him.

  “I asked you out, so I’m ready to go if you are. ” He stands up, heading over to grab my hand.

  “Parker, I think we need to talk before we head out.” He crouches down so we’re eye to eye.

  “I want to be honest and tell you that I’m not looking for a relationship right now, but we can hang out as friends. ”

  “Did I come on too strong with the flowers and the kiss?” He winks at me as he pulls me up against him. “Riley, I’m not looking for a relationship either. I’ll be gone in less than a month and I thought it would be fun to hang out. ” He holds his hands up in surrender.

  I can’t help but laugh at the innocent look on his face. “I don’t care where we go as long as it gets me out of here. ”

  “I have a great week planned for us, but I hope you’re wearing some comfy shoes today. ” He grabs my hand and with a shout out to Rosie we head out the door.

  It was such an amazing week! Every morning he would pick me up by ten and some nights we didn’t get home until after midnight. Monday we went to the boardwalk and spent the day browsing through the shops, eating and laughing and getting to know one another. Tuesday we went to the waterpark… I’ve never had so much fun in my life! Wednesday we hung out by the pool, Rosie made us steaks on the grill with her famous potato salad, which was delicious. Thursday was the actual Fourth of July so Parker took me to his family cookout. Later that night there was an awesome fireworks display out over the water. It was a perfect ending to our week. My only regret abo
ut going out with Parker was wishing I had experienced all of those moments with Hunter instead.

  Parker knew that I was busy Friday through Sunday—Hunter had invited me to the Friday night bonfire with his friends. Then the weekend was ours to spend alone. I couldn’t wait!

  When Parker dropped me off Thursday night he told me he’d pick me up on Monday at the usual time to start our new week of adventure.

  Hunter

  I’d seen Parker dropping off Riley a few nights this week, and it made me hate him even more knowing that he was spending time with her instead of me. Yes, I had been that creeper who peeked out the window hoping to get a glimpse of her.

  Fortunately, today is Friday and she’s all mine for the weekend. I made reservations for a few things I hope she’ll enjoy. I’m hoping Parker wasn’t smart enough to take her to these places already. I’ll find out soon enough.

  I’d just finished setting up for the bonfire when that tugging feeling started in my chest. I turn around slowly to see her standing about ten feet away from me, her hair blowing gently in the breeze, and a smile brushing her lips. Rushing over I pick her up and spin her around. I stop suddenly and slide her slowly down my body, crushing her mouth to mine. I hear her moan as my tongue enters her parted lips, exploring what’s mine.

  “I missed you so much,” she breathes into me as her hands caress my back.

  “I missed you more,” I whisper, holding her tight against me.

  “I had fun this week but I would have given that all up if I could have spent it with you. ” She grabs my face and pulls me down to hers as she devours my mouth. Clutching her ass I lift her up so she can wrap her legs around me, while my hands wander under the hem of her shorts.

  “Why don’t you guys get a room already?” Alex calls out.

  Pulling away from her sexy mouth I lean my head against hers. When she tries to get down I hold her in place. “Please don’t move now or they’ll see how excited I am to see you. ” She nods while nuzzling my neck, which doesn’t make things any better.

  “Let’s get this party started!” Grayson yells out. “Put her down, Hunter; we’ve all seen hard-ons before.” Everyone roars with laughter.

  Busted. I’ll never live this one down.

  “Come over here Riley, and tell us all about your week. What did Parker show you?” Zoe yells out as I glare at her. She smiles, then shrugs her shoulders.

  Riley looks back at me, winking as she heads over to have some girl time. I know she didn’t have many friends growing up, so I want her to have this experience. I’ll gladly share my friends with her if that’s what makes her happy.

  I love being out here with my friends on a Friday night. Especially since Riley’s sitting between my legs with her head resting on my chest. With my arms wrapped around her I could stay like this forever, she feels so damn good.

  “Well I have to go. ” Connor stands up, fist bumping all of us before heading out. It was great that he was able to come without Beth tagging along.

  Emma’s the next to leave. After she heads out, the party starts breaking up so I tell everyone it’s my turn to clean. They can take off. After putting out the fire it takes Riley and me two trips to lug everything back to the house.

  “I had a great time tonight. Thanks for inviting me.” She walks over, snuggling into my chest.

  “If I didn’t invite you my friends would have been pissed. They really like you and so do I. ” Looking down into her stormy blue eyes I brush my lips gently against hers. Her hands tangle in my hair as she deepens the kiss, exploring my mouth as she nips at my top lip. If I allow this kiss to continue I won’t be able to control myself.

  “It’s getting late; I’ll see you first thing in the morning. ” When I try to grab her hand, she pulls away. She feels rejected.

  “I don’t know what more I need to do for you to want me. ” Her eyes fill with tears that are ready to spill over any second. It suddenly hits me like a slap in the face; this beautiful woman has no self-confidence.

  Taking her hand in mine I lead her to the backside of the bar, pushing as many bottles out of the way as I can. Immediately her eyes widen as she sees her reflection in the mirror. Standing behind her my arms wrap securely around her. Her tears are streaming down her face, but I don’t wipe them away.

  “I don’t know what you see when you look in the mirror, but I see a woman who’s beautiful, loving, courageous, forgiving, selfless, and so damn sexy she takes my breath away. I promise you when the time is right, we will be together and it will be explosive. ” When I let go of her arms she buries her face in her hands, shaking uncontrollably. I take her in my arms, curving her into my chest. When she stops crying I take her hand, kiss her on the cheek and walk her as far as the kitchen, then slap her on the butt. I tell her to be ready by seven, because she’s all mine for the weekend. When Riley smiles as she walks away, my heart soars.

  Chapter Eleven

  Riley

  To say I didn’t sleep well last night would be an understatement. I can still see my reflection in the mirror and it makes me wonder what he sees in me. I’m just a plain Jane compared to the gorgeous women he knows, Emma, Zoe and Grayson. If I had to place a bet I’d say Emma really likes him. She hangs on his every word, and the way she looks at him; it’s like she could eat him up. The thought of the two of them together just breaks my heart.

  Jumping as my alarm goes off I reach over and send it flying.

  I’m not sure whether I need a coffee or a shower to wake me up. As I’m standing under the warm flow of water I realize I made the right choice. It feels so good that I don’t want to leave but then I think of a steaming cup of coffee, so I’m dressed and ready in fifteen minutes.

  Heading down to the kitchen I can’t help smiling when I see Rosie by the stove. “Do you ever go home or are you here twenty-four seven?” I ask as she spins around.

  “Well you’re up early for a Saturday. ” She pours me a cup of coffee.

  “This coffee is just what I needed, thanks. Do you ever get a day off?” She places a warm blueberry muffin in front of me.

  “What would I do with a day off?” she asks.

  “So you can do all the fun things I have planned for Riley and me today. ” Hunter saunters over, kissing me gently on the lips while holding my gaze. I suddenly feel like he can see right through me, which causes me to blush.

  He chuckles, “Rosie I would love to have a cup of coffee before we start our day. ”

  “You never told me where we’re going. Am I dressed okay?” When his eyes glide over me he breaks out in a devilish grin. By the look on his face I would say he likes my short shorts and crop top that I picked out.

  “You’re dressed perfectly, but you better have a bikini under that outfit. ” Shaking my head, he cups my face and whispers in my ear, “You are going to spend the day being hot, wet and excited, so go put it on, now. ” Feeling my whole body quiver as he releases me, I run upstairs.

  This man tells me we need to wait, but the sexual tension that exudes from his body is heady. I’m hoping with every fiber of my being that he keeps his promise because I want him with an ache I never knew existed. Hunter is waiting for me at the bottom of the stairs, with to-go coffee cups in each hand. He’s so wonderful…

  As I slide into the Jeep he hands me the coffees so I can put them in the holders.

  “So where are you taking me?” I give him a playful smile.

  “You will see soon enough. Just sit back and drink your coffee. ” He grabs my hand, bringing it to his mouth for a kiss.

  Hunter

  When she gets close enough to read the signs she squeals with excitement. She now knows we’re going jet skiing. Once I park the Jeep she jumps out and flings herself into my arms.

  “How did you know this is on my bucket list?” she questions me.

  I shrug my shoulders. “Isn’t a bucket list for people who are dying?” Suddenly I have this sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach.

  S
he shakes her head quickly when she sees the fear in my eyes. “No, it’s a list of things you want to do before you die, not necessarily because you’re dying. ” I’m glad that’s cleared up.

  Making my way to the rental office I see Craig sitting behind his desk. “Hey, I saw your name down here for reservations. Haven’t seen you in a long time. ” He stands, shaking my hand.

  Pulling Riley close to me I introduce her. “Riley, this is Craig—we go to USC together. Craig, this is my girlfriend, Riley. ” Well that just flowed out of my mouth, shit.

  Craig’s eyebrows lift up in surprise. That’s understandable because I’ve never had a “girlfriend” since I’ve lived in South Carolina. “All you have to do is show me your driver’s licenses to make things legal and I’ll see you in an hour. ”

  Riley’s shoulders slump as I take out my license. “I forgot to tell you to take yours. We’ll go back and get it. ”

  “I don’t have a license. ” she whispers so softly only I can hear.

  “She can ride with me, no big deal. ” Bending down I look into her eyes. “That way you can put your arms around me and hold me tight. ” As I’m grinning down at her she punches my arm.

  She strips off her clothes to reveal a sexy black bikini underneath. My hands are sweating as I help put on her vest. It takes every bit of self-control I possess to step away and not run my hands up and down her body.

  I give her a quick lesson before we get on the skis. When her arms snake around me, they are pressed so close to my groin that I have to concentrate on driving this thing. I wanted to stick close to the coast so I could show her the sights, but I feel her breasts rubbing up against my back with every wave I take. I’ll actually be glad when this hour’s up, she’s so fucking tempting.

  As I turn around so we can head back I feel her hands skimming over my hips and stroking back up my thighs. My dick comes to life. If I had to guess I’d say payback’s a bitch for all the times she was turned on and I put the brakes on. Little does she know that I can flip this situation in a heartbeat? I stop the ski jet so fast she bumps into my back. Spinning sideways I wrap my right arm around her waist and have her straddling me in less than thirty seconds. Her eyes open wide and her mouth is shaped in a perfect “O. ” It’s an open invitation so I pull her mouth to mine, thrusting my tongue inside. My hands automatically slide down to her breasts, rubbing my thumbs over her very erect nipples. When I hear her moan my hand glides slowly down her tight stomach until I find her center.