Caribbean Dialect Included

It was a new week in Spencer and in one household, a wife prepares breakfast for someone other than her husband. The thought of it makes her smile and actually think about the future. Needing to hear his voice, she fished for her phone out of her pocket and pressed the call icon. It's always funny to see his name being at the top of the most recent list, ninety percent of the time.

"Morning, kitten. How are you?"

Even though he couldn't see it, she knew that her husband knows her reaction to his deep voice so early in the morning.

"I'm great. How's everything?"

"The job is done. I may be home by Thursday. We need to tie up some loose strings after the kid's job. We didn't expect it to be so messy," he replied.

"It's still hard to grasp that everything connected, even here."

"I know right. Ace told me of a little problem while I was away. When I get back, I will deal with it. So.... have you decided? You know I will go along with whatever you want." Bryan has always been that considerate, selfless partner since they were in high school. When he looks at her, Katie knows she has his whole attention. He remembers the small details of things between them and works to give her a charmed life. 

"Staying," she simply said.

"Very well. I will...."

"B, I can do it. You have a lot on your plate. I'll be fine," she interjected. He was about to take over her part in the temporary move when he had more to handle.

"Kitten, I don't want you to be stressed when shit goes wrong," he whined.

"You're pouting, aren't you?" she asked trying her hardest not to laugh.

"Pshhh. No. Grown men don't pout."

"My husband Bryan Winshall do pout when I stop him from spoiling me too much." 

"Your husband is a fucking simp."

She couldn't help it. The boisterous laugh that escaped her can be heard on the entire ground floor. Bryan's laugh mingled with hers, making it more amusing.

"Yes, you are. So I will let you go now. Careful on your side and I will get things started here." From her peripheral, she spotted Shaun entering the kitchen with a nervous smile on his face. Katie and the others weren't extremely close to Shaun like the others since he opted to stay out of the popular group but they care for him as their own little brothers.  Motioning him to take a seat at the already set table, she saw first hand the effect the little gesture did to him. 

"Okay, kitten. I love you," Bryan said, bringing her back to their conversation.

"I love you too."

Ending the call, she quickly plated their meals and delivered them to the table. "Coffee or juice?"

"Uh, coffee," Shaun answered, taking a bite of the frittata. 

Katie smiled at how adorable he was. Upon agreement between themselves and the Johnsons, helping Shaun finish high school was a top priority. When he was released from the hospital, Elijah didn't waste a minute and brought him to the house. Katie felt useless when she saw how worried and agitated Elijah was for his friend. He helped him settle into the guest room and it was by accident when delivering fresh towels, she overheard the two friends in an emotional conversation.  It brought back memories of her individual conversation with Isaac after his hospitalization. Their friendship was beginning back then but his near absence did rock her. 

"Thank you." His response was soft and he was avoiding eye contact with her.

"It's okay to relax here. It's a lot to take in huh?" Katie voiced as she took a bite of her own breakfast.

"This is a very high level of kindness that I never expected to receive. I'm sorry if I seem standoffish. You and Bryan are doing so much for me," he returned.

"You're a dear friend to our little brother. That's all that matters."

Shaun paused in eating and turned to Katie. "I now have a home. The Johnsons are taking care of my scholarship. Thanks to Marielle and Charisse, I can now finish school online and have a high school diploma. On top of that, you and Bryan are keeping your home open to me for my college years and beyond. That's a lot."

"It is a lot but it's all coming from the heart and given to someone Elijah, of all persons, holds in high regard. You know how little his circle is and his trust level is limited. He considers you someone worthy of his undying friendship. You know him as well as the others," Katie said, pausing also.

"You're right. I've witnessed his evasion of those who wanted a quick friendship for benefits and how closed off after that drama with Bree. He's selective. I'm still shocked that he sees me as one of his close friends. It feels good to have people on my side. Derek betrayed me in the worst way possible and now has so many people against me. My mother and my sister....." he stopped and heaved a heavy sigh filled with sadness and disbelief. 
"I guess I no longer have blood family," he muttered but Katie heard. 

The two resumed eating in companionable silence, each thinking of their future.

"Elijah made a selfish request," Shaun said aloud with a little laugh.

"That sounds like something he will do. What was it?"

"To live long enough to see him married with kids and get invites to vacation getaways."

Katie laughed at the double request her little brother gave. "Well, you gotta grant him that request. Knowing how the Johnson brood works, it's more like an order than a request."

Shaun gave her the brightest smile she has ever seen on his face during the past few days. 

"I don't mind living for a friend."

                                                                              **********

Across town, settling in his office for the new workday, Thaddeus Lincoln was seated behind his desk looking out the large window. His office was situated downtown, in the midst of many businesses. Everyone was either connected in a professional relationship or from out of town looking for a new start. He came to Spencer with his family as a new contractor under Eli Johnson's construction company. It was an opportunity he couldn't give up and it turned out to be a great decision. After years of working under the Johnson company, he was given the chance to establish his business. 
He's now the boss of fifty employees with building contracts coming in from Spencer and neighboring towns. On occasion, Eli will refer clients to him which helped his business grow. The referrals, the professionalism, and the satisfaction after each job made his company name bloom.

It was a good thing in his life to have his own business, being his own boss but other parts of his life fell apart. His eldest son, Russell became egotistical and became a nuisance in the neighborhood, known for being a heartless womanizer. It wasn't a surprise to him when a young girl and her family pressed charges against him for the unthinkable- rape. The specifics of it all translated to Thaddeus as his son letting his ego rule his actions. He did his all to get his son out on bail without his mother's support but failed. 
Bree became rebellious even when she was in a relationship with Elijah. In his mind, he saw the kid as a good influence on those around him but Bree was hiding a side of her from everyone. Recently it was shown to the public. 
As a father, the failure and disappointment resonated in his soul to witness on a daily two of his children destroying themselves. It reached a level that he had to claim defeat. 
Only one child proved to him that he was still an exceptional father. It pains him when his second son's words came back to mind. Raymond as a middle child was very observant. He was mindful of his older brother and watchful of his younger sister. He was the one who heard the fights between his parents and found out the truth about their family. 

"No situation is worth your sanity, dad. I'll be fine."

His own son pushed him to call for a divorce and move on from the toxic environment he called home. Though he was hesitant he went ahead with the paperwork. As promised, his son made him proud by entering college and becoming a man worthy of praise. 

"I guess this is how things are supposed to be," Thaddeus muttered to himself. He glanced at the family photos on his desk. Two were of three kids when they were younger and the other two were of his new wife and the boys. Raymond and Jackson gave any viewer the thought of them being blood brothers when they only met a year before the wedding. Moving on was the best decision he made.

It was nearing lunchtime when his workday became interesting. Barreling through his office door, with an extremely pissed off look was his ex-wife, Mya. She was immaculately dressed, hair well done, and striking a pose that supposed to be dramatic and intimidating. To Thaddeus, she only brought annoyance to his daily life.

"You fucking son of a bitch. You had to stoop that low to gain another child's attention. It's out of my good heart that I agreed to keep the alimony cost low and this is what you do to me? Where is she and why did you tell her?" Mya was practically screaming instead of calmly explaining what had her in a huff. This was his normal for years. 

"Oh crap, Mr. Lincoln. She slipped past security and took the stairs." The hurried and breathless explanation came from his secretary who came rushing into his office. 

"It's okay, Dariah. Give us fifteen minutes then invite security up," he returned, his gaze firmly on his ex-wife.

"Security?! You're calling security on me," Mya shrieked.

"They will be here less than fifteen minutes if you don't calm the fuck down and explain why your presence is here in this building. Knowing how ignorant you can be, I can have the cops here sooner if you like. Now. What is your problem?" Thaddeus stated in a bored tone. 

The lack of fire in his statement and laid-back attitude made her anger flare higher. She stalked closer to him and planted her closed fists on his desk, bringing her face closer to his. 
"You told her about the affair, didn't you? I came home and met the place a mess, her room fucking empty. I've been calling her for days after she hung up on me..." she began.

"Stop. Days? When was the last time you spoke to her?"

Mya backed away from the desk and began to tug nervously at her blouse. At the last attempt to lord some power of him, she straightened her back and looked down her nose at him. "Recently. Answer the question, Thaddeus," she said through clenched teeth.

"I have no idea what you're talking about. Since you're here, oblivious to your daughter's..."

"My daughter? Oh, she's my daughter now."

Thaddeus rolled his eyes at her dramatic behavior. She was the one who wanted custody of Bree and went along with the girl's destructive path in school and social life. Whenever he made an effort to discipline her, Mya was the one to turn him into the bad guy.

"Cut the crap! What the hell do you want? The last thing that came across my way about Bree was a call from Professor Costas. He wanted to inform me of the school's decision on her expulsion. I take it you haven't checked your mail nor did she tell you about it. I'm done being the buffer between her and deserved punishments. She's acting grown, I will let her deal with her grown-ass issues. If you have nothing else to accuse me of, get out," he said getting to his feet. 

"Expelled? Why?"

Thaddeus was tired of her shit. He was tired of everything. Outsiders may say he's selfish for abandoning his duty as a father but they haven't gone through the crap he had to deal with. Raymond was right.
 "You know what. Get out. Get the fuck out of my office and don't come near me ever again. If you have an issue take it up with my lawyer. Russell is probably in some gang shit, his parole officer called me about a missed meeting. Since he called me three times it means you have been with your fuck toy. Bree has been bullying the kids in her class for months. Those little pranks you called them turned into full-blown town gossip. On top of that, the rumors going around her being involved with an older man in another town are now being ignored by me. Maybe you should start by looking for her there. Stop being a selfish bitch who thinks she's still in her early 20s and be a fucking parent. I tried, Mya, for years I've tried without your support, now is your turn. Again. Get out."

"Are you taking away the alimony?"

A confused grimace formed on his face. He told her what has been going on with their kids and all she wanted to know if she was still getting monetary support. 

"Goodbye, Mya," he said firmly.

That triggered her.

"You cheap, unfeeling, unloving bastard. An fucking mistake I made in fucking while drunk just to get saddled with three more mistakes. I never wanted that shitty life you tricked me into. How much of a cunt you were to saddle me with a kid and then ask my folks to marry me. I never wanted you. I told my pops that but their pride made me stay with your musty ass. Fuck you, Thaddeus. I will sue you for everything you got. You owe me. You owe me my entire life.  You calling me a selfish bitch is very hypocritical of you. I told you that I never wanted to come to this place but you still went along with that stupid job. It's not my fault our kids went off the path. It's yours. I hope you fucking die to save me the issue of knowing you're still around making my life making it depressing. If I want to make my life easier without worrying about those brats then I can, stupid motherfucker."

"Are you done? Security please take her away. Have her photo posted at the desk as an unpermitted person to this building." Reclaiming his seat behind his desk, he watched on as two female security officers forcefully removed his ex-wife from his office. Dariah was looking on with pure disgust as Mya hollered profanities down the hall, promising to make Thaddeus' life a living hell.

"Do you want a restraining order on her?" she asked, shaking her head in disbelief.

"Please inform my lawyer about that crap," he said rubbing his face harshly.

"I'm on it."

He knew the blow-up was to happen when Elijah visited him last week after school. From the look on the kid's face, he knew the secret was out. He was relieved that it was all in the open but felt guilty, asking him to keep it from Bree. The truth had to be told. It wasn't the perfect timing but it had to happen anyway. 

                                                                                       **********

New York

"Compare to our Senior Year, they suffered through it more emotionally than us. So they are fine?"

Luanne was seated on the floor of her living room sorting the laundry during a video call with her other friends. Isaac was out for the night at one of his restaurants holding down a shift for one of his head chefs. She didn't mind his good nature in helping his staff, he loved being in the kitchen. Over the years, she considered herself lucky to watch him grow from a lost bully to a loving husband and friend. It took many therapy sessions, undying support from her and their friends to help him achieve what he wanted. 
As his wife, she boldly shows off his accolades whenever an article is posted about him and saves each clipping.

"I haven't visited them all but Elijah and Harem were the spokespersons for the group. All is fine. They are all focused on their studies and which college to apply to," Katie answered.

"Elijah is still on the ropes on that one. I think he's feeling a bit of pressure on that decision." Marielle's voice told them all how concerned she was about her brother. Luanne's concern for her friend was clear when the call started. Mari looked a bit pale and a bit drawn, Charisse asked about her well-being but she brushed it off as food poisoning. They knew it was a lie. Marielle Johnson has to practice her lies if she had to tell one to keep a secret and it always comes out sounding scripted. Poor thing was so innocent that she couldn't lie at all. Silently they let her get away with the little lie but had an idea of her 'real' situation.

"Do you still think he wants to live up to the family's achievements?" Charisse asked.

"And the public expectations," Luanne added. 

Marielle nodded her head in answer with a frown on her face. "What sibling wouldn't? Shaye is a long way off. Elijah grew up alongside all of us and has been in the public eye since he was born. Mom and dad are considered prodigies in their line of work when they were teenagers and into adulthood. Their businesses grew to million dollar-named companies before they were thirty. Have you seen their school records of straight As and stuff? What about our uncles and aunts...."

"It's hard not to. Surgeon. Actor. Millionaire Rancher. Business Moguls. Talk about a family of high achievers," Charisse commented. 

"Then there are his older brothers and sisters," Mari continued.

Katie grimaced along with the other girls. Amongst themselves, they were all highly qualified and in the public eye for their accomplishments. The guys were the same, a high-powered CEO, an NFL star quarterback, a highly proclaimed architect, a renowned chef, a doctor, and two top-notch car dealers.  That's a lot of family success on one kid's head. 

"Don't forget, entertainment blogs and magazines are already saying he will take over Mr. Eli's empire. I had my taste of that pressure when fashion blogs kept saying I will follow in dad's footsteps after our prom dresses and our revealed wedding dresses. It was a lot," Katie commented.

"He keeps asking me what to do, over and over. I feel so useless as a big sister because I don't know how to answer him." Marielle was on a verge of tears. They all knew how much Elijah means to her. She considered him and Shaye the best gifts her parents gave her. She spoils them so much. 

They all kept silent thinking of ways to help him out, without putting any more pressure on him.

"Tell him to do nothing."

This was Luanne's answer. They all waited for her to elaborate and watched on as she left the camera frame and returned a minute or two later. She lazily placed her head on her knee and explained her answer. "This can go to anyone with a good support system. For the little Johnson, he has major support around him. College to everyone is like this mandatory step society established. Not everyone survives college or even finds their calling. We all went to college right after graduation because we knew what we wanted to do, right?"

They all agreed with a resounding yes with nods to accompany it. 

"Out of all our siblings, who decided what they want to do after graduation?" she asked, eyeing her best friends.

"Harem, Ayanna and Raine. Alec's decision is stalled. Trey can go either way. Taylor is still processing all that has been going on. Mischa is still indecisive. As for the new girls, Stacia and Erica, they too are indecisive." Charisse was the one who gave the answer.

"Maybe college isn't for them now, so how about we help them out by suggesting backpacking outside of the U.S. I recalled having a classmate who was three years older than me. He commented on becoming a dancer after watching a show in Europe. He said seeing things outside of our world gives us a wider perspective. Maybe this is what they need," she concluded.

"I was also thinking along those lines, even the guys. We did plan to do that remember?"

They remembered the half-baked plan Marielle spoke of, they all got tunnel vision when their career opportunities were set before them.
"So graduation gift to begin for the entire group?" Luanne pressed.

"Yup."

"Yes."

"Of course."

"With that out of the way, who got a full pic of Elijah's girlfriend?"

                                                                                                  *********

Spencer

The new week wasn't as eventful as others for the group of friends but that didn't stop the minor details they had to handle amongst themselves. Their lives and connections have changed and they all believe their current situation is meant to be. They have lost friends and gained some, the world looks different to them now and now it was time to focus on their futures.

Raine was presently at Ayanna's house along with Kage and Callum. The two boys were the new addition to the group and they adjusted easily to the dynamics of things. They got along great with the other guys, their personalities weren't offputting and they were genuine in wanting to be friends with them all. Callum, since his introduction to Ayanna, has been harboring a crush for the girl. He boldly told her of his patience in waiting for her. Not wanting him to place all his hopes on her, she carefully suggested he go on dates with other girls if he likes. Her face heated when he responded that he met the woman he wanted for life. Mischa's presence was returned to friends by Ayanna. She no longer felt affected emotion-wise when he's spotted with girls hanging off him or his wild streak. He was still a friend. 

"Don't you two have football practice or something?" Raine asked. They were all seated on the floor in Ayanna's rec room with brochures and note pads placed in their little circle.

"My practice was canceled. This caught my attention though. I never really focused on life outside of football," Callum answered.

"You play really well. When we came for one of your games, I overheard some older folks commenting that you are being scouted. Is that true?" Ayanna brought this up. To get away from Spencer High's dramatic environment, they all have been going out more as a group or trios. Supporting Callum and Kage at their games was one of their outings. 

"Uh. Um. Yeah. They have been since the start of the season. My folks are excited, bragging about being the next NFL star from Spencer. So, yeah." 

Raine not too discreetly nudged her friend and stage whispered of her making the 'cute ripped footballer blush'. That only incited more blushing from the guy and created a flustered Ayanna. "Raine, stop teasing her," Kage called out, trying his best not to laugh.

"I-It's okay," Callum rushed out. Raine again saw the cuteness to his comment and added that to the fire. 
"He likes it. See? Ayanna isn't that sweet," Raine cooed.

"KAGE! What about you? Why no practice?" Ayanna said a bit too loud. 

"Oh, I'm not playing for the rest of the season. Captain's orders," he said nonchalantly.

The teasing atmosphere dissipated and all eyes went on him as he idly went through a brochure. "Care to elaborate, Mr. Vibe killer?" Raine pushed.

"It's fine, guys. Derek is captain which means I don't have to really explain. We all know what happened. I approached the coach and he brushed me off so I went to the professor. I wanted to know if my absence on the field will forfeit my scholarship, I'm all good on that front. My dad was livid when he found out."

They all eyed him closely and noted that he really was okay with it. 
"Aren't you going to miss playing this last season in high school?" Ayanna asked.

"To be honest, at the start of the new school year I was excited about it but after what happened with Derek and you guys, it wasn't so appealing anymore. I know he was a fucking jerk, but playing under him will be uncomfortable to that level of being a grade-A cunt. I'm having fun with you guys though. Being a teenager and all of that," he replied honestly.

"That's all that matters." Raine smiled his way and took the job of handing out notepads.

"Where are the others?" Callum asked.

"Harem is taking Stacia on a date. Alec and Trey are with Taylor doing the same thing as us. Shaun says he will stay in with Katie, Bryan is still out of town. Erica has a play date with Elijah's little sister Shaye. She may stay the night with him."

"So everyone knows what college they want to attend, then." After Ayanna's answer, Kage put his question out there, wanting to know if they too were conflicted with their future. 

"We do, along with Harem," Raine replied softly.

"I guess the others will make their own college decision?" Callum mumbled.

"Yeah. I mean, college is always there. There's no age or time limit in going to college if you decide to," Kage offered.

"You're right. Let's get started here. We're just gonna browse and see what catches our eye." Raine looked at her friends and smiled to herself, knowing that their friendship will never die no matter where they go to study.

                                                                                                **********

"You good?"

Erica froze and took a deep breath. She had to calm herself, her decision to start the story she was reading in her boyfriend's presence was the wrong one.

"Yeah. Why yuh ask?" she asked, thankful for her dark skin.

"You look rather restless on the bed. You keep twisting your legs in weird ways," he answered. Presently he was playing a game at his little set up with her right in his peripherals. Elijah knew it was something on her phone. She tends to either get lost in a mobile game or in a new ebook in her downtime. It was cute seeing the little emotions play across her face when she's so oblivious to the world. 

"Boy, ah good. Go back to yah game," she rushed out, turning her back to him. Erica missed the mischievous grin on her boyfriend's face. Turning up the volume to the console, he entered one of his friends' ongoing matches and became a spectator. Without seeing the screen anyone will think that he's in a match. Easily, he ditched his controller and made his way over to his bed. In curiosity, Elijah watched as her fetal position got tighter, she cleared her throat and tucked her hand between her thighs. He was glad she was sleeping over. The large t-shirt she 'borrowed' from him barely passed her thighs, her little movements hitched the material farther up, showing inch by inch her pink boyshorts.
He got a clue as to what she was reading. His sister was a best-selling author and some of the scenes she writes make him blush way too much. 

"I wonder what my baby is reading right now," he said lowly. In one quick move, he covered her body with his, grabbing hold of the hand she was using to prop her head up and locking her other between her thighs.

"Elijah! The fuck. Aye, no, doh read that," she protested. 

"Why not?" 

Grabbing her phone, he touched the screen to see the title of the story. He was familiar with the ebooks apps. Currently, the book his sister created for him was still being added by her fans, it's sweet that they still see him as the adorable baby brother mimicking his bigger sister. 

"Hmmm. Don't be Shy one-shot by Nerdyflirtykari. You went through a lot of this writer's stories. They really make you hot and bothered huh?"

"This is crazy," she mumbled.

"Are you embarrassed to let me know you read smut?" he asked. Letting her go free, he watched on when she scuttled away from him.
"Nuh really. Ah just.... geez an' ages, ah does get wet while reading dem. Daydreaming dat you doing dem things to me," she confessed.

Elijah's jaw actually dropped at her frankness. Erica rolled her eyes and made a move to get off the bed but he got a hold of her before she went any further. 

"Hey. Hey. Where are you going? I'm not shaming you or disgusted by it. No need to get worked up. I'm sorry if it came out like that." 

He held her against his chest and scooted back to the wall with her between his legs.  "Who do you think my sister tests her books on? Her reading audiences start from our age and go up. We get to read her first drafts and final ones after she hears our feedbacks. Big sis is not your normal big sis,"  he said with a laugh.

"Ah forget dat Ellie Hector is your sister. Her books real hot," she commented.

"Baby. I'm your man. Don't forget that. You can ask me anything, and I mean anything. When it comes to the intimate part of our relationship, I will respect your boundaries. Okay?" Placing a kiss on her neck, he felt the shudder that flowed through her body.

"Do you want me to kiss you again?"

"Uh-huh," she answered, turning her head to make it easier for him.

"I wasn't talking about your lips."

"Wah?" Erica didn't have time to understand his words. Her phone still clutched in his hand, Elijah pulled the t-shirt off her body, exposing her smooth dark brown skin and the lace bra that held her soft breasts. Pushing her slightly forward, he lightly licked the base of her neck before placing a slow open-mouthed kiss there.

"Ohhh!" Her moan was breathy and once again he felt the shudder flowed through her body. He smiled against her skin, proud of the fact that his woman was so reactive to him.

"Do you want me to touch you, baby?" 

She trembled upon feeling his warm breath as he spoke against her skin. The low tones of his voice affected her nerves greatly, sending her mind to mush.

"Please," she begged, clamping her thighs tighter.

"How about I read to you? I always wanted to act."

She sent a confused look over her shoulder to him. His grin warned her of the devilry he was about to perform but it also sent her body in overdrive.
"Wah yuh mean?" 
Her question was answered by a low chuckle and a chaste kiss to her cheek. 
"Do you trust me?" he asked, removing his own t-shirt.

"Yeah."

"With your body, baby. Do you trust me with your body?" he asked in a more detailed form. 

Erica eyed him closely. Elijah has been the only guy whom she allowed to touch her body freely. Sitting between his legs half-naked was also a first with a guy. She was comfortable with him in more ways than one.  Over the weeks she has been arguing with herself about the intense attraction and affection she felt for him. Was it her celebrity crush on him this big or is it the real deal? Does she truly love him? It's still early days in their relationship but love isn't measured by time, does it? 
She felt his hand being placed on her knee, she didn't feel disgusted, only anxious. Erica wanted to move his hand lower, close enough to feel the result of her daydreams of him.

"I trust you."

"Thank you, baby. Strip for me," he said firmly.

No hesitation, she eased off his bed and stood before him. Taking in her fill of him, she too appreciated his comfort of being half-naked before her. He leaned forward and hung his arms on his knees, waiting for her to start the show. Erica grinned and took a step back. 
His hair was styled in single braids, all loose and brushing against his face. His brown eyes shone with excitement and those lips she loved to kiss were stuck in a wide smile.

Elijah Johnson was her boyfriend. How lucky she was to be in a position most of his female followers boldly stated that they wanted? 

Reaching up, using two fingers, she undid the clasp between her breasts and allowed the bra to come loose at either side of her chest. Elijah licked his lips and moved to the edge of the bed. The cool air in the room made its way over Erica's body, one light shiver and her nipples puckered instantly. Groaning at the sight he witnessed, he leaned back on his forearms and continued to watch the little show. Her name came as a whisper when she took a confident step towards him, arms at her side, and came to a stop between his legs. He couldn't move, even when she covered his upper body with hers and blessed him with a slow, heated kiss. "You feel great against my body," he murmured between kisses. His cock was painfully hard thanks to her breasts pressed against his heated skin. Her soft mounds shifted with subtle movements making them very enticing. To have them in his mouth had to wait. He wanted her to experience a part of their new intimate relationship the best way he can offer. 

"Need help?" he asked, trailing his kisses to her neck and shoulder.

"Y-yeah." Her response came out shaky. Wrapping his arms around her, he got to his feet with her body still plastered to his. "Help me first."
Erica's head shot up in disbelief, wanting to know if he was joking but looking at his steady brown eyes she knew he was far from that. 
Her fingers were cold when she grabbed hold of the basketball shorts. He heard the little curse that escaped her glossy lips when the shorts was removed. She was now on her knees, at eye level with the prominent bulge under his briefs. He stayed still and silent, waiting to see what she will do.
A grin was on his face when she used one hand to cup his balls and the other to trace his hardened cock. 
This was her first time exploring the male body, he didn't want to stop her curious touches but her actions were sending him wild. Though the cotton was the barricade he can still feel her touch on each stroke.

"Baby, I love what you're doing but I prefer to cum either in you or on you and not in my briefs. Please stand up," he pleaded.

"Sorry eh," she apologized.

"God you're sweet," he breathed out. Distracting her with a kiss, he pushed his hands in her boyshorts and cupped her ass. "I've wanted to do that since I first met you," he grounded out. Squeezing her ass, he pressed his cock against her center and was blessed by that moan he longed to hear. 
"Ah like that," she confessed when he moved against her soaked center. He felt how wet she was and proceeded to remove the underwear entirely. Pushing his hand between their bodies, he felt the peach fuzz on her pussy clearing way for her bare, slick folds and swollen nub. Brushing a finger against her clit, her body reacted the way he wanted with her hold getting tighter on him. "How long have you been this way?" he asked, sliding his fingers against her folds.

"Ah while now. More. Please, baby," she whined, burying her face in his chest.

"Not yet. I want to read to you. Come." Grabbing the blanket and her phone from his bed, he led her to the standing mirror outside of the walk-in closet. Erica was confused when he laid the blanket on the floor and told her to stand before the mirror. He took his place behind her and slid his hand slowly over her bare skin, brushing his fingers against her intimate areas. Open mouth kisses were next as they started from her neck, then down her spine. A sharp gasp was heard when she felt his bet on her ass cheek. "Sit. Legs spread wide."

She obeyed him, no hesitation.

"Watch yourself in the mirror. Look at who's behind you. I'm the only one to see your body like this. You are mine. Say it."

She met his piercing gaze in the mirror, standing above her. The expression on his face told her so many things but what stood out was a hint of possessiveness. "Erica."

"I'm yours."

He gave her a nod then placed his attention on her phone. She did what he asked of her and took in her naked body in the mirror. Her beauty wasn't one seen in the magazines nor her body shape and size. Erica smiled softly and felt good about herself after seeing the visible stretch marks on her hips, the tummy rolls as she sat, the way her thighs jiggled when smacked, and the slight droop her breasts were in after being freed from the bra. Her Elijah saw all of this and still claimed her body as his. 
He lowered himself to the floor and enveloped her body with his, placing her hands on his knees and tucking her head in the crook of his neck.

Author's Note:
The following is a new DON'T BE SHY- ONE SHOT, read by Elijah Johnson and reenacted by Erica Hollis and Elijah Johnson. The story will be written in italics.

"Guitar Lessons. Hmmm, this one sounds interesting."

"Wait. Dais one ah de stories I wanted to read," Erica commented.

"Well, you're going to listen and do as I say. We're doing some role-playing," he returned with a slight chuckle. 

This was Rin's last chance to get the music right to her song. Something was missing. The song was special to her and perfection will have to come at any cost. Over the years, the guitar has been her solace but there's a limit as to what she can learn on her own. Resorting to private lessons twice a week was her only choice and less time-consuming. It was her first lesson and she took the option of having the tutor visit her home. 
Checking the time it was ten minutes to the agreed hour, she wanted the song to go on air in three weeks. It was her idea of letting go and a show of appreciation to that one person she held close in her heart.

They saved her life countless times and never once asked for anything in return. It broke her when they disappeared leaving behind one last gift. Now here she was living her dream as a talent manager thanks to them.
The intercom buzzed, breaking her thoughtful mood. Rushing to the receiving box, she listened and replied to the security guard, giving him the green light to put the tutor on her visitors' list. A few minutes later, a knock was made on her door. 
Excited to get started, she swung open the door after rushing to it, only to be given the shock of her life. The person on the other side of the door seems to be in the same position. Five times they looked at the piece of paper in their hand to the occupant of the apartment.

"Erin George?!"

That voice.

It got deeper and gruff. Brown hair that had unruly curls were now in a messy bun, a beard which he hated now grew on his face, more tattoos were etched on his lean muscled body and those dark eyes that once held his happiness were now dull. No matter the changes to his appearance or demeanor, she can recognize him anywhere.
Rin fell to her knees, she couldn't believe it. Tears she had no idea she harbored for this man fell from her eyes as she struggled to say his name.

"It is you," he breathed out heavily. Without asking for permission, the man gathered Rin in his arms and quickly shut the door. She couldn't move, the tears kept coming. He placed her on the sofa and knelt before her, waiting patiently for her to stop. 

"Parker."

"Hello, princess."

Unable to help herself, Rin threw her arms around his neck, hugging him as tight as she can. Her body relaxed against his when he returned her hug. He chuckled when she began to ramble on, relaying her shock in seeing him again and the universe blessing her again. A sentence reached his ears that reached his hardened heart. "I missed you."

He missed her like crazy and hated what happened years ago. Pulling back, he took in the changes and wondered how can a beauty become even more beautiful. The years were good to her, that was good enough for him. She was radiant. Her silly smile was still adorable in his eyes, her brown eyes had more shine to them and she was no longer hiding her hair under hideous scarves. Her light brown skin was glowing, her cheeks rosy and showing her excitement, though she wore a loose sweatsuit he can see the outline of her curves. 

      Erica's breathing became unsteady when Elijah's hand moved from roaming her body to caressing her breasts. The constant pinch and tug on her nipples were driving her crazy. Her center was throbbing begging to be touched but she couldn't. She couldn't close her legs. He gave the mirror a quick glance and grinned. She groaned when she noticed how her juices were slowly trickling out of her opening and how the throb in her clit was visible. "I guess you can feel the attraction Parker already had for Rin," Elijah commented, placing a kiss on her neck.

Parker got to his feet and took off the guitar he had strapped on his back then began to pace. "Parker? What's wrong? I know I'm happy to see you but I guess it's not the same for you," Rin said. Her smile dimmed at that being a reality. His leaving six years ago came back to her, did she interpret his goodbye letter wrong? 

"I am happy to see you, princess. I never thought I will see you again. What are the chances that you booked a tutoring session at my store? This reunion may not be how you want it to be," he said with a nervous chuckle. Joining him in standing, she took his hand in hers and began to draw lazy circles with her thumb to calm him down. 
That action made him crumble inside. She was the only one who knew how to stop him from panicking. He had to tell her but how?

"Why don't we start that lesson? You mentioned in the email that you only needed a bit of help to get some of the chords right. Let's start with what you got," he said quickly, pulling his hands out of her hold.

"Uh. Yeah."

Turning her back on him, she didn't see the tortured look on his face as he watched her walk away from him, even for a second. Parker kept his distance, sitting in an armchair while she was seated on the sofa, tuning her guitar. His last gift to her.

"So this song, is it a cover?"

"An original. It's special to me," she replied. 

"That's impressive. Can I hear it, princess?"

Her finger mistakenly strummed two chords that made a very harsh sound and welcomed an awkward atmosphere. 
"Playing it for you here and hoping you hear it wherever in the country you happen to be are two different scenarios," she voiced aloud.

"What?"

"The song. I wrote this song for you," she rushed out, keeping her eyes averted from him. The silence that followed was deafening. It made Rin nervous, her hand shook as she began to strum the strings. She can still feel his gaze on her, making her self-conscious. Wanting to escape the weird environment she made an excuse of needing to use the bathroom.

Parker on the other hand came out of his stupor, cursing himself for embarrassing her like that. His princess wrote him a song. She was still thinking of him, the same way he never stopped thinking of her. His Rin. 
"Explanations can come later," he muttered to himself. Finding the bathroom in the modernly designed apartment, he barraged the door with continuous knocking and calling her name. The door opened abruptly after the noise level rose. "My neighbors will complain. Sorry about that. I needed a moment," she said standing in the middle of the bathroom hugging herself. 

"I want to kiss you like there's no tomorrow. Taking the time that I can borrow to show you the world I wish for us to be in. Life and status blinded me from the gem that rightfully belonged to me. Yes, you are my gem. The world I lived in hid you from me but I found you. I had to give you up so you can shine, hoping that one day the gods will make you mine again."

"Parker...."

"I wrote those lines over and over again whenever I think of you. When I dream of you, there's a song I can't get out of my head. For six years princess, I've done nothing but crave your smile and your touch. I'm sorry for leaving you but I had to. I had to get my shit in order but when I did, I became a coward. I didn't want you to resent me. Now, here I am, in your home with the knowledge that you never forgot me. The song can be one that fucks me up or whatnot but it's yours. Right now. Right here. I want to hold you and kiss you. Would you grant me that princess? Please? I will explain everything after but for now, let me have you how I longed for." He didn't hold back, he couldn't. He has been harboring feelings for a woman for six years and it went beyond what he was to have for 'her'.

Rin was being honest with herself. She wanted him the same way he wanted her. That crush she had, no, have for him, isn't a high school one. It was deeper.

One nod of her head and Parker was before her pulling her into his arms into a deep kiss. "Yes," he moaned against her lips. Hurriedly he unwrapped her hands from her body and placed them around his neck. "This is where they are supposed to be," he commented. The taste of her lips and her teasing tongue made him dizzy in euphoria. His hold on her tightened, hitching her onto his waist, he moved her to the counter with her legs crossed behind his back.

Elija moved his hand from Erica's breast, knowing what may come next in the story. "Look at yourself," he demanded of her. Slowly his hand made its way down her stomach, over her pussy mound, and to her swollen clit. Using his thumb, he flicked her nub like a guitar string. "It won't be long. I'll touch you more, soon," he reassured her. Her back arched in response to the sensation between her legs. Head thrown back, Elijah captured her lips in a bruising kiss to stop her loud moans.

Intensifying their kiss, he listened to her restless whimpers and followed her wants when she tugged at his jacket and t-shirt. It wasn't long before he was down to his unbuttoned jeans. He hissed when her cool fingers touched his heated skin. "More ink?" she asked, sliding her lips against his neck.

"Y-yes."

Her hands wandered down his spine and were now trailing along his waist. His own hands went under her sweatshirt, her silent permission resulted in him getting rid of it and the t-shirt below. He grinned when he saw no bra hindered him from having a taste. Rin held his head against each breast he paid attention to, nipping and tugging as she screamed his name. He closed his eyes memorizing the look on her face and recording the sound of his name on her lips. After the truth comes out, he can lose her. 

One chance. That's all he wanted..... if that's all he can have. 

"Bedroom?"

"Out.... the door. More.... umm to your right," she answered, slightly flustered. 

Gathering her in his arms, he followed her directions and found the bed immediately. They both undressed each other fully, following their desires without a doubt. Spreading her legs, Parker's head dipped between them, his tongue swirling around her nub before plunging into her honeyed opening. Rin shot up from her prone position, a silent scream coming from her as the man she longed for ate her out completely. 

Elijah plunged a finger into Erica's heated core, gaining the same reaction as the story's main character. His name was on her lips. In and out his finger wet, with each push, his finger got slicker, wetter. "Two." He added another finger, getting the better feel of how tight she really was. "Show me how you usually bring forth your own release," he demanded of her, nipping her soft spot below her ear.

"Baby. Please. More," she yelled. He watched on in rapt attention to the placement of her hands. He groaned against her neck when his swollen cock shifted against his briefs. He felt the little pre-cum, knowing if his woman moved her ass a lot in the next few minutes he will cum in his briefs. 
"That's so hot," he moaned in her ear. 
Erica held his gaze in the mirror and licked both her index and middle finger before beginning a slow circular action on her clit. She shuddered in pure bliss at the combination of her most fingers and slick heat. Her other hand was on her breast, tugging and pinching in the same rhythm Elijah created with his fingers. He cursed aloud when she began to fuck his fingers, moving back and forth on his cock. "Woman..." he said breathily. 

He couldn't stop. He was becoming addicted to her. This woman beneath him trustingly gave herself to him. 
"Need you, Parker. I need you so bad," she cried out, holding his head in place and fucking his tongue in dire need. He bit her clit and slid up her body, taking her lips to give her a taste of herself. His cock was now coated by her juices as he moved between her legs. Placing his arms on either side of her head, he propped himself up on his elbows and smiled at her. "You mean so much to me, Rin. Thank you for this. Thank you."

"Baby? Why are you thanking me?" she asked, cupping his cheek. Her heart lurched in her chest when he cradled his head in the cup of her hand, kissing her wrist in the process. 

Don't hate me after you hear the truth, he begged silently. Let me love you, please princess.

Reaching between them, he guided his cock to her entrance, burying his face into the crook of her neck, he gave her his mind, body, and soul to her when she wrapped her arms around him, stroking his head soothingly in the midst of their sexual heightening. 
"I love you," he whispered. 
Parker sharply thrust into her heat, blinding himself in pleasure, shock, bliss, content so many emotions. Her sharp cry answered one question, her hold answered another and her body responded to him.

"R-Rin? No... For real?" he asked aloud, moving slightly to look at her face. A tear rolled to the corner of her eye but her genuine smile negated that example of pain. 
"No one compared to you," was her answer.
For six years, this woman in his arms never went as far as they are currently because of her affection for him. He couldn't form a reply to that, all he can say was a whisper of her name. It seems that's all she wanted. She took him back into her arms and demanded that he continue. He hid his face in the crook of her neck and continued to give her what he wanted. Her tightness clamped around his dick, pushing deep into her after clearing her barrier, he was struggling to keep his pace steady. Her pussy was sucking him in, the heat they created was wreaking havoc. He cursed aloud when her nails began to cut into his back. Telling her the one word of sorry, he went wilder, hearing their combined juices squelch with each thrust. "Fuck! I'm sorry if I hurt but you feel so fucking good," he moaned in her ear.

"I love it. Don't stop."

"Hold on tight," he grounded out.

Rin screamed his name to the ceiling when he went faster. Her breathing was already labored and it was taking everything in her to stay focused. Colors were blurring across her eyes, his heavy breathing and the feel of his skin against hers were enveloping her senses. He felt right. Tears streamed down her cheek as he kept apologizing and confessing words of love just for her. How can she focus? This was the man she blindly loved for six years, respecting his decision of parting ways. He singlehandedly helped her when she was thrown out of her home at eighteen. He gave her a home and a new perspective on life. He taught her so much at twenty years old then, respected her boundaries, and protected her. How can she repay him?

"Parker," she whispered when he blindly sought her lips. This kiss was different from his first. His hands were now on her waist, his grip on her waist tighten, imprinting onto her skin. His thrust was faster and harder. His sweaty body was shaking and also hers as she felt that pressure builds in her lower stomach.

"Close, so close. Cum, make me cum please, Elijah," Erica begged fucking his fingers faster and at the same time stimulating herself at the same speed. 
"I know. I know." One more finger entered her which made her scream doubling, over in pleasure. 
She looked gorgeous in her wanton state. He will never forget this moment.

"I can't hold back, Rin," Parker warned her.

"Don't."

He knew how many more thrusts to bring them over the edge. Their juices helped a great deal, opening his eyes, he found her already looking at him. Her smile was it. Her smile was the trigger. On two sharp thrusts, he released in her, shuddering as her pussy clamped on his dick as she too gave into her release. 

"Elijah!"

He watched on as her body slumped against his after her release. Her spread thighs shook with the after-effects of her orgasm. Slowly he removed his fingers from her core, smiling at her shudders, and licked his fingers clean under her heavy gaze. 
"You did so well, baby," he complimented. Placing her phone beside them, he found the strength to get to his own two feet and ditch his now soiled briefs. He froze when Erica got to her hand and knees shakily and took his semi-hard cock into her mouth, sucking him clean. 
"Whoa! Baby?" he responded in shock. A shiver ran up his spine when her tongue reached his balls with his cock still in her mouth. Finished, she sat back and gave him a shy smile. What was there to say? He loved her bold move. Helping her to her feet, he held her in his arms for a moment then led her to the bathroom.

No longer able to hold himself up, he slid to her side and took his time in coming back to earth. Rin held onto him tightly. For some reason, he understood her action. This moment reminded him of the last time he held her in his arms. 
Closing his eyes, he apologized over and over, he wanted his Rin. He will fight for her and he won't give up, she was his princess after all. 

Does she still want guitar lessons?

After a long warm shower together, Elijah and Erica found themselves in bed, under thick blankets watching a movie together.

"Wait. How de story ended?" Erica asked distractedly.

"She decided to take a chance on the love she had for him after he explained what happened six years ago. He knew her only as Rin for that time they spent together. His real name was Ian Parker, heir to an oil and gas company. He was going through his rebellious phase when he met her after his father dropped the bomb of an arranged marriage," he answered.

"Da fuck! Really? So he was married?" she asked searching for her phone on the covers.

"For two years after he left her but the wife dissolved the marriage. He refused to consummate the marriage and painstakingly negotiated with his father to let him live the life he wanted. Four years he has been doing so in the music industry, on the grounds of his and her love for that art," Elijah answered. "What are you doing?"

"Ah want to read it over," she huffed.

"You think you will need to test something out in one of those stories in the future?" he asked, forgetting the movie entirely. Erica couldn't answer right away. Elijah had her pinned down and in a slow-building kiss without her even noticing his quick actions.

"Maybe one or two," she murmured against his lips. He covered her body with his and propped his head on one of his hands as the other traced the contours of her face. A dreamy smile grew on his face, along with his gaze becoming heavy. She heard him whisper something along the way of 'This is it.' Elijah placed a kiss on her lips, slowly tasting each one, teasing her second by second.

"Erica?"

"Yeah baby," she murmured. Eyes closed she was reveling in the warmth they shared and the effects his kisses on her. She was happy and that's all that matters. He made that possible. 

"I love you."