Luci's Lullaby Page 7

  He lifts his shoulders in a half shrug. “She told me that Charlee had a crush on you in high school and didn’t want you to know who she was. Em suspected she was still interested, you know, like she protested you too much.”

  “Well, she got one over on me.” I bob my head.

  “What do you mean? Is she okay?” His forehead creases.

  I wave my hand in front of me. “She’s fine. Reese walked in on us; I had no clue they knew each other.”

  “So she’s mad because you slept with Charlee?” He raises his brow.

  “That and the fact I’m an asshole.”

  He chuckles. “You’re a horn dog, everyone knows it. Charlee is no exception.”

  “I’m not so sure about that, she’s different.” I chew the inside of my lip.

  “Are you alright?” Aksel lowers his voice.

  “It’s all good.” I grin. “Just gotta get back in the saddle.”

  He holds up his fist. “I hear ya.”

  “Gentlemen, how are you today?” Sam interrupts us. She’s gorgeous, and I believe she knows it by the way she’s wearing that red pencil shirt and white shirt.

  “Doin’ good. How are you?”

  She drags her eyes over me. “Better now that we have you signed.”

  “That’s what I like to hear.”

  “Aksel, I think he needs the schedule for the fest.” She doesn’t even look at him. I shift my feet as a wave of uneasiness comes over me.

  Aksel cuts his eyes at me. “Sure, I’ll go grab one.”

  “Take your time, Alden and I are going to get to know one another.” She smiles, and my skin crawls. “Walk me to my office.” She snakes her arm with mine.

  “I appreciate this opportunity, I will do my best to not let you down.”

  She leads me toward a door with her name on the side. “I have no doubt you’ll do amazing things. In fact, I believe will do them for each other.”

  I reach for the knob and hold the door for her. She withdraws her arm to walk in front of me. “Thank you.” She lays her hand on my chest and lets it slowly fall.

  “You’re welcome, ma’am.”

  She turns, wiggling her finger as she leans against her desk. “Tsk, tsk. There will none of that, Alden. Come sit.”

  I look down the hall and find it empty. I swallow hard and allow the door to shut behind me. There are two chairs in front of her, and I pick the one furthest away.

  She slides across her desk, facing me. “My understanding is you’re a player.”

  “I wouldn’t say it that way.”

  “Here’s the thing, there will be no surprise pregnancies and you will curb that appetite you have. I understand the occasional one-night stand, but you’re a professional now—act like it.” She narrows her eyes at me.

  “I’ll take it into consideration.”

  She leans forward, her breasts in my face, and whispers in my ear, “There’s plenty of places to get what you need.”

  “I-I get it.” I quickly glance at her, feeling the urge to shift in my seat.

  She smirks. “I hope you do.”

  “Oh, excuse me.” I pretend to grab my phone through my pocket and jump up, taking it out. I speed text Reese, hoping to get a way out.

  Sam surveys me as I wait across the room. “Is there a problem?”

  “My attorney, she needs to speak to me.” I point at my phone like an idiot.

  She licks her lips, crooking her finger at me. “Come join me until she does.”

  My phone rings, and I almost jump as I answer it. “Hello-hey, yes. Just one second.” I look up at Sam. “Was there anything else?”

  She forces a smile. “No. Please feel free to call me if there’s anything we need to do with the contract.”

  “We will definitely do that, thank you.” I stumble out of the office. “Thank you!”

  “What in the hell?” Reese asks.

  “That woman has more than music on her mind, she’s got sex on the brain.”

  “Congratulations, you’re perfect for each other.” Reese giggles.

  I smash my mouth together as I push the elevator button a hundred times. “I’m not laughing.”

  “You should be, I’m funny as hell.” She cackles.

  I drop my cell when a hand lands on my shoulder. “Shit.”

  “It’s me, chill,” Aksel says.

  I lay my hand over my heart as he picks up my phone. “What the hell?”

  “I’ll explain later.” I take my cell as the door opens.

  “Sounds good, later.” He jerks his head as I push the down arrow. “Oh hey, don't forget this.” He shoves the fest schedule into my hand.

  “I gotta go, I’ll holler at you later.”

  Reese snickers. “Alright, love ya.”

  “Sure you do.” I end the call, resting my head on the wall.

  I have one other person I need to call. I dial his number, thrilled to give him the news. Two rings and he picks up.

  “Hey, little brother.” Cidney sounds happy.

  “Guess who is playing the Carolina Country Music Festival next month?”

  The line’s silent for longer than I expect. “Are you kidding?”

  “Nope, I signed the contract a few minutes ago.”

  “Congratulations! I’m proud of you, Alden.” My chest swells; it’s all I’ve ever wanted, to make him proud.

  “Thank you, Cid.”

  “I’ll tell Shelley as soon as she finishes her conference call.” Shelley’s an attorney, and Cid will be by the end of next term.

  “Sounds good. I’ll get the information for tickets.”

  “We can’t wait. So proud of you, Alden,” he always tells me twice. It’s no wonder I think my shit doesn’t stink.

  “Love y’all.”

  “Love you.” He ends the call and my chest bursts with pride.

  I tune my guitar as I watch the door. There’s no sign of her tonight. I guess I need to get my shit together, so I can work. I’m not sure why I’m even looking for her.

  “What hottie has your attention tonight?” Mark laughs.

  I frown, agitated with everyone’s thoughts of me. “No one.”

  “Bullshit,” he replies.

  “Contrary to popular opinion, I’m not a man-whore,” I huff.

  Mark cocks his brow as Mike and John laugh. “Yes, you are.”

  “What the fuck ever. Let’s play,” I growl.

  Mike twists his mouth. “Bet me.”

  “Fuck you.” I flip him off. “I’m not betting on whether I get laid or not.”

  “Fifty bucks says you do.” He snorts.

  My jaw pops as I grit my teeth. “Make it a hundred and you’re on.”

  “No way, all you have to do is decide to not go home with one and you win.” John chuckles.

  “Are we gonna play or are y’all so interested in my sex life that we need to keep shootin’ shit,” I growl.

  John twirls his sticks. “I’m ready, boss.”

  “Let’s do it and you can take the blonde in the center home after.” Mark snickers.

  “Maybe I will.” I plug in and drown him out.

  Why in the hell does everyone keep talking about my sex life? I’m single. I work hard and play harder. Is that a problem? You know what, it’s not and Mark’s right. I’m going to get laid and forget about the rest.

  “Hey, ladies. How are y’all doin’ tonight?” I pull long and hard on the neck of my guitar. “Are you feelin’ lucky?”

  The crowd roars, and I tear into the night. After the day I’ve had, I’m ready to forget. As far as I’m concerned, there’s no better way. I want to get lost in the rhythm and find solace like I used to when I was younger.

  Later that night, I slide into my truck seat with the blonde scooting across the seat, sitting next to me. Her hands are all over me, and I can’t wait to get her back to my place.

  Traveling down Highway Seventeen, I’m totally into the woman groping me at the moment. When I shift gears, so does sh
e. Well, I might add. Her hands are down my pants, and we’re both about to get happy.

  “Heads up, we’0re caught at a traffic light,” I say to her.

  I come to a stop, putting the brakes on everything. I scan the area, looking for the police because I’d like to not get a ticket for indecent exposure.

  “Is anyone around or can I keep going?” she purrs.

  “Just another second, it’s about to change.”

  The minute I think we’re home free and the light is about to let us go, something catches my eye. I turn my head, staring at the sign. It’s like it’s mocking me, making my face flame.

  “Son of a bitch,” I growl.

  “Something wrong?” She lifts her head.

  “No. Not at all.”

  The light turns, and I hit the gas. I drive as fast as I lawfully can to get her home and buried deep into her. No, I don’t know her name. No, I don’t care. If she doesn’t think more of herself, then why should I?

  I park in front of my place and climb out, helping the handsy blonde with me. Opening the door, I swing it wide and head straight for a beer. I can’t stand to be sober for another minute.

  “Do you want a beer?”

  She wraps her arms around me. “No, just you.”

  I shut the fridge door, turning around to face her. I twist the lid off and take a long swig. “You got me.”

  “I’ll take it from here.” She hits her knees and works my zipper down.

  “Well, now. You do like to move fast.”

  She works my pants down to my hips and frees my cock. She peers up at me as she takes it into her mouth. Sucking it deep into her throat. As she licks and bobs her head, I try to relax and enjoy it.

  Her moans fill the room but instead of intoxicating me, they’re annoying me. I shift my stance, and she adjusts. She wraps her hand around my shaft as she sucks the head in, swirling her tongue over it.

  “There ya go, work for it,” I encourage her, hoping to focus. It doesn’t help, so I set my beer down and help her from her knees. “First door on the right, I’ll be right behind you.”

  “I’ll be ready.” She scurries off as though she’s the little woman of this house.

  “Hell naw, that ain’t happening, sweetheart.” I adjust myself and walk over to lock the door. Taking my time to the bedroom.

  I stand at the door, staring at the athletically svelte body in front of me. I would say she isn’t my type, but I’ve kidded myself enough today. She’s a woman, therefore, she’s my type.

  “Get over here, I want to finish my job,” she mewls.

  I make quick work of my clothes and wait by the side of the bed. She crawls over to me, fisting my cock. Her mouth is hot, and I slide in deep. No matter how hard she works it’s just not doing a thing for me.

  Dear God, please tell me I’m not broken.

  “Lay back, I’ve got this.”

  I pull the drawer open and reach in for a condom. But instead of pulling one out, I have panties in my hand. Purple lace and silk. The memory of Charlee sprawled in my bed wearing them brings a smile to my face.

  The heaviness in my chest reminds me of so much more. I fist the material in my hand and turn to the woman in my bed now. I rub the back of my neck.

  “I need for you to go.” I turn back to my pants, picking them up off the floor and taking my phone out.

  “What are you talking about?” She sits up straight.

  I dial the number for a taxi. “Hey, Don. It’s Alden, I have a pick up as soon as possible.” I end the call and put my pants on.

  “What the fuck?” The blonde leaps from the bed, grabbing her clothes up. “Who in the hell do you think you are?”

  “I know who I am. You can wait in the living room or outside, it’s up to you.”

  “Go to hell!” She slings her purse over her shoulder and storms past me.

  I hear the door slam before I toss my phone on the bed and walk into the kitchen. I don’t reach for a beer this time, I need something stronger. Opening the door, I grab the Wild Turkey because if I’m going to be this fucked up, I want it to be by my choice.

  “Let’s see if this will get you outta my head.” I pour two fingers and down it. I follow it with two more and pour one for the road, taking the bottle with me. By the road, I mean for the walk of shame into my bedroom.

  Leaning against the door, all I can see in my bed is Charlee. I finish off the glass and pour another. “What the fuck is wrong with me?”

  I continue to drink until I can see my way around this mess. “You did this to me. You said I was a whore and now, I don’t want to be one.” I slam the amber back and stumble over to my bed.

  “I don’t want anyone else in this.” Even as I say it, I see her laying here, beautiful. “Hell, naw. This ain’t happening.” I set the glass down and fall backward.

  Buzz. Buzz. Buzz.

  “Oh, who in the hell on a Sunday morning?” I slap the bed looking for the annoying sound that’s acting as a cannon in my head.

  Buzz. Buzz.

  I find the damn thing under me and an empty bottle beside me as I roll over with the phone in hand. I press answer.

  “Please tell me someone died and that’s the only reason you’re calling me.”

  “She’s here,” the deep voice cracks on the last word.

  I rub my face, pulling my shit together. “Oh, man. That is wonderful. Congratulations!”

  “Thank you. We’re so happy.” His complete and utter happiness exudes even through the phone.

  “How’s Sarah?”

  “Amazing. Jordan looks just like Silas, man.” I can hear Chord’s tears.

  I sit up, shaking off the yuck. “Is she up for visitors?”

  “Of course, everyone and their mailman is on the way,” he exclaims.

  “I’ll be over in a few.” I stand, stretching. “I’m so happy for y’all.”

  “Get your ass over here and see my girls.” He chuckles. “Thank you.”

  “I’m on my way.”

  I toss my phone back on the bed and head to the shower. I wash and dry in ten minutes flat. On my way out, I grab my phone, and I’m faced with the purple panties. I shove them in my pocket until I figure out what to do.

  I drive Seventeen toward the hospital where Sarah and Chord are with their new family member. As if the world hasn’t played with me enough this weekend, the light catches.

  “You’re kidding me.” I roll my eyes. “Am I being punked? Honestly, Lord. Just tell me what you’re trying to teach me.” I shake my head, fighting the urge to see if her car is at the store.

  A horn blows, and I jump. I immediately look to my left and search for her. Her car isn’t in the parking lot, so she must be home. As I pull away from the light, it dawns on me. “It’s too damn early for her to be here. Or maybe she’s off on Sunday?”

  I grip the wheel, angry that I’m still thinking of her. “What in the hell is going on?”

  Once at the hospital, I park in the first space I find. I jump out, hurrying inside the elevator to the maternity wing. Three floors up, the doors open to a nurses’ station.

  “Good morning, I’m looking for Sarah Hamilton.”

  “Hey, they’re down this way.” I turn to find Hardy at the end of the hall.

  I jog down to him. “Can I go in?”

  “Yeah, Chord’s been showing her off to everyone.” He smiles.

  I rap my knuckles on the door and push it open, taking a minute to apply sanitizer. “I hear two of the happiest people on earth are in here with an angel.”

  Chord’s face is glowing when he looks up at me, cradling his daughter. His family sits around the room, all entranced by the new member. “She’s so perfect, Alden.”

  I walk over, kissing Sarah on the cheek before checking out their gift from God. “Hey, love. How are you?”

  “I’m great.” Sarah beams.

  I run my finger over Jordan’s hair. “She’s her mother.”

  “She is.” Chord stands, handi
ng her off to me. “Don’t freak out.”

  “I’ve held a baby, I’m not gonna break her.”

  Chord doesn’t leave my side as his eyes shimmer. “I’m one helluva lucky man.”

  “That you are but I figure, y’all have had enough hurt to last a lifetime. You both deserve this and so much more.”

  “See, baby. Everyone thinks we need more,” Chord chimes in.

  Sarah stares blankly at him. “Not today, Chord.”

  “Shut down.” I chuckle as baby Jordan makes a sucking sound.

  Sarah sits up. “I think she might be hungry.”

  “Are you gonna try again?” Chord raises his brow.

  “Try what?”

  “Nursing.” Sarah glows. “She’s not latching on yet, and I’m praying we’ll get it.”

  “I know nothing about any of this, so I’m going to hand her over and say my goodbyes for now.” I rub her little cheek before handing her over to her mom.

  “Thank you for coming.” Sarah kisses my cheek.

  “I’ll be back. I need to bring her a proper gift.”

  Chord frowns. “No gifts needed.”

  “Speak for yourself, I want Country Fest tickets.” Sarah giggles.

  “I’ll see what I can do about that.” I wink at her.

  “I’ll see you out so you can stop hitting on my wife.” Chord rolls his eyes.

  He and his brother follow me out to the hall where Hardy sits. Hardy’s his brother-in-law, and One’s his brother. His dad is walking down the hall now.

  “Where you headed, back to bed?” Chord asks.

  I rub the back of my neck. “I’m thinking of checking on a friend, but it’s early; I’ll probably go back to my place.”

  “A friend?” Hardy perks up. “Is this friend a woman?”

  I shake my head. “Naw, why would you think that?”

  “Because you said friend, instead a man’s name.” One grins.

  I shove my hands in my pockets. “Here’s the thing, she wouldn’t even look at me the other night. Acted as if she detested me. We talked for a few hours and she spent the night.”

  “Typical Alden.” Hardy laughs as I shift my feet.

  “Why does everyone think I’m a man-whore?”

  Chord cuts his eyes at One and Hardy. “Well, because of you.”

  “That’s what she said. She actually said she knew what she was getting into but wanted to stay.”