Reunions Of All Sorts...

I turned around upon hearing the café door chime open, smiling from ear to ear when my older brother, Joe, my niece, Michaela, and my dad all walked inside. “HI guys!” I exclaimed, rather loudly and excitedly as I practically ran over to them, hugging my dad and brother tightly then scooping my niece into my arms. I felt myself relax instantly the moment her little arms wrapped around me. Damn, I missed them.

“Hi auntie J,” Michaela, (or Cay, as I like to call her) mumbled as she snuggled against me, still hugging me tightly. She leaned back and kissed me quickly, giggling when she pulled back and looked down at me.

“What’s so funny munchkin?” I asked, tickling her a little.

“I got lipstick on your lips,” she said, laughing harder now, making me smile and laugh along too.

“And what are you doing with lipstick on?” I asked, looking at her puzzled, trying not to laugh.

She closed her eyes, smiling, “and eye shadow!” she stated proudly.

“Well I think you look beautiful, you might have to do my makeup for me when we get home.” I said as I put her down, walking over and hugging my dad once more, this time a little longer, then kissing his cheek, “I missed you,” I whispered, looking seriously up at him. Damn he was a lot thinner then I remembered. Tanner too. But then again he was always out working on the boats and dock this time of year so I should have suspected it.

“Oh jess, I miss you too sweetheart,” he said smiling and pulled me in for another hug. Before I moved my dad and I were always close, and I know me moving away killed him a little. I hated that, but I needed to grow up on my own a little, and I needed to shed the typical “daddy’s girl” image I had in high school and college.

“Alright, we know you’re the favorite but let’s not make it too obvious,” my brother said, laughing when I glared at him.

“Jessica!” I heard, Maureen calling from the kitchen. Luckily the café was pretty dead today.

“Maureen, my dad and brother just got here!” I called back. Maureen was probably relieved to hear that too. I hadn’t stopped rambling and talking about my family coming down all day, which I’m sure was obnoxious, but I couldn’t help it! I was excited.

Maureen came around from the back, introducing herself to my dad and brother, making small talk while I went behind the counter and finished cleaning the coffee machine. Grabbing a cookie for Cay. “Jess why don’t you take the afternoon off. I was thinking about closing anyways.” Maureen said, turning around to face me. I opened my mouth to protest, “don’t try and say no, you’re off the clock,” Maureen added smiling, “have a nice weekend off with your family, and I will see you next week.” She said smiling.

“Thank you so much!” I said, hugging her quickly then gathering my things. I waved goodbye and made my way outside, joining my dad and brother who were already waiting a table outside while Cay ate her cookie. “Ready guys?” I asked laughing when I saw chocolate all over Cay’s face.

The four of us made our way down the street towards home. Cay singing Let It Go the whole time. I laughed as she twirled back and forth, walking ahead of us. My dad closely behind her to making sure no cars where pulling out of driveways.

“How have you been?” I asked Joe, looking up at him curiously. Right before I moved, he and Cay’s mom had gone through a nasty break up, but she was starting to become the kind of women Joe did not want around his baby girl, and I commend him on that decision. Not to mention I never was a fan of the girl he knocked up after a few dates, but I was thankful we had Cay as a result of his drunken stupidity.

“I’m good, things are good.” He said smiling genuinely. “Kristin stopped coming around a few weeks ago, I haven’t heard from her since.” He said shrugging, “To be honest, I like it that way. I know she should be able to see her daughter, but Kristin is bad news, so the less I hear from her or have to deal with custody crap, the better off.” He said, wrapping his arm around me and pulling me into him laughing, “what about you little sis, how’s the dating game in Connecticut? Jake told me there was a motorcycle man lingering in your kitchen the other morning,” he said smirking, and raising his eye brow as he looked down at me.

I rolled my eyes, making a mental note to kill Jake when we got home. “Of course he did, Jake has the biggest mouth ever.”

“Don’t change the subject J, are you secretly dating someone new?”

“It’s not a secret, and were not officially dating. We just started hanging out this past week!”

“And he already slept over Jessica Rose!” he said in a scolding voice.

I laughed, ahh the over protective brother syndrome. “Nothing happened, he just fell asleep here and I didn’t want to wake him when I went to work.” I said shrugging like it was no big deal. “I was going to tell you guys about him, and eventually introduce him, but not this soon. Him and I aren’t even technically together, were just starting out and getting to know each other. I need to get a feel for things before I let you guys at him.” I added just as we were heading up the drive way. I smiled hearing daisy barking and Cay cracking up on the other side of the door. I missed the sound of her laugh filling the house.

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“So dad, do you think you could keep an eye on Cay tonight, while the four of us go grab a drink?” Joe asked, while we were all sat at the table for dinner.

“Yea dad that would be awesome!” Jake added, taking a bite of his steak as he did.

Another plus to having my dad around! Not only was he was an amazing cook and stocked my fridge up, but he was also a free babysitter when needed. I cut into my steak and vegetables, talking to Cay to keep her distracted from the conversation, knowing she would have a meltdown if she knew we were planning on going out tonight.

“Yea that’s no problem, I’m tired from the drive anyways so I’ll get her into bed then probably sleep myself.” He said smiling, “You guys have a good time.” I frowned a little, my dad was never one to be in bed early or to willingly stay home doing nothing. Something wasn’t right. Just as I started to worry and was about to open my mouth to say something cay flung a carrot across the table and brought everyone’s attention to her as she started cracking up.

“I’ll text my friends and let them know about tonight, maybe they’ll come out too.” I mentioned, after the laughter died down and everyone was back to stuffing their faces.

“Pretty friends I hope,” Joe said laughing at me when I rolled my eyes. I know he’s just teasing but if all my brothers’ friends were off limit, why weren’t mine. Talk about unfair! I cleared my plate from the table and grabbed my phone texting the group.

My brothers are in town for the weekend. Bar crawl downtown? Come! Can meet up at my house around 930 and then head down! I miss you girls!

It had only been a week since I had last seen the girls, partially because I was busy with work and Cole, but I had missed them. I couldn’t wait to fill them in on Cole tonight! Almost instantly I got a reply from Sky and Lauren.

              Lauren: I will be there! See you then J

Sky: Me and Tom will meet you guys down at the bar! Citrus first?

I had to admit, Tom coming out made me feel a little sad that Cole couldn’t, seeing that they were close. But I was looking forward to a night out with my brothers and girlfriends so I couldn’t wait either way.

                Me: Citrus is perfect to start, see you there Sky. Lauren I’ll see you here in a little bit.

I helped clean off the table with Jake and Annie as Joe washed up Cay for bed, then rushed off to change around 8. I showered and changed into tight pink jeans with a black strapless tube top tucked in (if you couldn’t already tell I owned about a million black tube tops and practically only wore those). I slipped into black wedges and curled my hair big, putting on a little extra eye makeup. Around nine I headed downstairs and sat with my dad until Lauren showed up. After introducing her to my dad, the five of us headed out to my car. Luckily we had Annie, who couldn’t drink but served as a very reliable designated driver! I showed her where to go and a few minutes later we were squeezing into a bar down town, Citrus.

“I'll get us drinks, you guys find a table!” Joe yelled, as he and Jake made their way to the bar. Lauren, Annie and I made our way through the bar until we luckily found a table with six chairs. One less then needed but it was as good as it was going to get tonight. After sitting down I scanned the bar, waving when Sky and Tom walked in. I smiled, wishing Cole was there as they took their seats at the table.

“Tom, this is Lauren, Jess, and….”

“Annie,” I added, forgetting they hadn’t met yet, and introducing her to everyone. “Nice to see you again,” I added smiling.

“Ahhh the reason my roommate has been missing,” he said laughing. “I’m sure he will be jealous when he finds out I was with you tonight!” he shouted over the music.

I blushed and shrugged, laughing along with him.

A few minutes later Joe and Jake carried our drinks to the table setting them down, and taking seats. Annie sitting on Jakes lap so everyone was able to sit.

After a few drinks we decided to make our way down the street a little to another bar to get drinks and appetizers, hopeful that it wouldn’t be as crowded since it was more of a restaurant type scene. After getting a table and ordering I excused myself to go to the bathroom.

I pushed through the crowd, finally making my way to the single stall bathroom line which seemed to be taking forever. After seriously considering ducking into the men’s bathroom it was finally my turn. After holding my breath (public bathrooms…EW) and peeing, I washed my hands and pulled the door open, looking down to fix my shirt that was tucked in twisted. Just as was finished fixing it I bumped into someone and started to trip. The hand that wrapped around my back to steady me felt familiar and I gulped as I looked up, knowing my cheeks were already bright red.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, my eyes locked with Andrew’s.

 

 

 

 

Ahhh The 'B' Word

I woke up and rolled over to find Cole still in my bed. I smiled and slid over under the sheets to snuggle against him a little. My room was freezing from my ac, which read 62 degrees (did I mention I like sleeping in basically Antarctica) even though it felt like 33 in my room. Luckily Cole had spent the night, and I definitely didn’t mind the extra body heat, especially from him.

He stirred a little as I nestled into him, but didn’t open his eyes or acknowledge that he was awake in anyway. I glanced over at the clock which read 6:02. It would go off in thirty eight minutes and I contemplated sliding out of bed to shower and get ready for work a little early so my alarm didn’t wake Cole up, but decided against it. I shut my eyes instead and lazily snuggled Cole, whose hands were rubbing up and down my back over my t-shirt now. I smiled, knowing he was awake but not wanting to ruin this embrace. I was so comfortable in his arms, and despite sleeping in the same bed together, this seemed like the most intimate we had gotten. I don’t know how I was able to keep myself from jumping his bones last night, and I have to admit, I was a tad disappointed when he didn’t try to go any further then making out and a little touching last night. But it seemed like he was just trying to be respectful and I loved that.

I suddenly felt a pang of guilt in my stomach, remembering that I had agreed to meet Andrew today to talk things over. Crap. What was I going to do? I know this was only day two, or three…I don’t know what the sleep over makes it….with Cole, but I was really really enjoying hanging out with him. And I had already told him more about my family on date two then I had with any guy I dated a little. Here I was falling quickly, and I couldn’t help but remember what happened the last time I let my guard down and fell fast. Before I knew it I was being pushed out by a wedding ring. I wasn’t about to make that mistake again.

I felt Cole’s lips kiss the top of my head softly, his hands continuing to rub my back gently. “I have to get up for work soon...” I whispered, opening one eye to look up at him. To my surprise he was fully awake, eyes wide open and watching me. I blushed a little and smiled, shifting so I could look up at him, “Good morning,” I whispered and smiled again.

“Morning,” he whispered back in the sexiest morning voice ever. I could definitely get used to this. “Do you have to go to work?” he asked smirking down at me, pulling me closer against him.

“I do because I took off the other day, but it’s only from 7:30 to noon and then I will be done for the day.” I said smiling and reached over to turn my alarm clock off since I was wide awake anyways and wouldn’t need it any longer. Just as I did Daisy jumped up onto the bed, making the whole thing shake and crawled right between me and Cole, wagging her tail and licking everywhere. I laughed and pushed her off, straddling Cole and smiling down at him as I did. I smirked and leaned down to kiss him, my hands on his bare chest. Just as my tongue started to intertwine with his and my hands started rubbing his chest lightly I climbed off the bed, “Have to go to work,” I said giggling at his pouty face. “You can stay in bed and leave whenever you’re up if you want?” I suggested just before turning the corner and heading downstairs to let daisy out.

I let out daisy, starting my Keurig up as I did then let her back in and headed upstairs to shower and get ready for work quickly. I smiled seeing Cole already back asleep in my bed. What a sight.

I showered and got ready with ten minutes to spare. Today’s work outfit, jean shorts and a black V-neck Deja Brew t-shirt. I must admit, I did put on a little extra makeup and do my hair nicer than normal for work today because who knew if I was going to see Andrew after work.

I went down and made my coffee, taking a new k-cup and placing it on the center island next to a coffee cup and then grabbed a pen and paper.

Sleeping beauty-

Hope you slept well. I am sorry if I woke you up earlier. Hate to leave for work but I am done early today. I’d love to stay and have coffee in bed with you but I’ve got to go. Hope you like Dunkin Donuts coffee because that’s all I have k-cups for right now! Cream is in the door of the fridge, sugar is in the cabinet above the Keurig. Enjoy! J

p.s when you leave, please make sure the front door is locked and shut tightly, it’s tricky sometimes!

Xo J

I stared at the note, contemplating throwing it away but deciding I didn’t care if it was lame. I put the pen away, then grabbed my bag off the counter. I slipped into my sneakers that were unfortunately required at work and grabbed my keys, locking the door and pulling it closed behind me, then walked down to the café.

------

I frowned, pulling my phone out of my pocket at noon. No texts. No calls. None from Cole or Andrew. Not even anything from my dad who usually blew my phone up nonstop. I was sure I would at least have something to read once I got out of work, but I guess I was completely unpopular this morning. I slid my phone back into my pocket and headed home.

During work I had decided that I was not going to text Andrew at all today, if he didn’t text me first. I was leaving all of this up to him, after all I wasn’t about to chase a married man just for an explanation and an apology lunch. Especially not when I left a great guy in bed just this very morning.

I turned and started walking up my driveway. Freezing when I saw a tall brunette man standing in my kitchen with his back to the window. I walked a little closer thinking that maybe the lighting was just making Cole’s hair look darker. As I got closer though I knew this definitely wasn’t him. I froze, my mind reeling with possibilities. All going back to Cole not shutting the front door right and someone breaking into my house and waiting to kidnap me and my dog and lock us in their cellar. (Maybe I should stop watching lifetime movies and CSI…). Once I got closer to the house I saw Coles bike still on the other side of my car and heard his voice coming from the window. I sighed relieved a little, surely no one was going to break in and kidnap him….right?

As I reached for the door my stomach dropped. Andrew. I hadn’t heard from him, but maybe he had decided to show up here. It made sense after all. He knew I got out at noon. And it’s not like he hadn’t just dropped by before. Shit. I froze, unable to open the door. What if that was Andrew in there. Talking to Cole. Oh my god. What was I going to do? Surely there was no way I was getting out of this pickle. Andrew would probably recognize Cole from the night he walked me home. Great. Day ruined. I took a deep breath and opened the front door. Quietly making my way down the hall towards the kitchen.  I hadn’t even realized I was holding my breath until I was about to turn the corner into the kitchen living room dining room area, when I sighed a breath of relief. I recognized the stranger’s voice, and it most definitely wasn’t Andrews.

“Letting strangers into my house?” I asked, looking over at Cole who turned, looking surprised as I walked into the kitchen, laughing.

“He had a key!” he exclaimed laughing as I walked over and hugged Jake, my little brother tightly.

“I thought someone broke into my house and was waiting to kidnap me!” I explained laughing when I saw both guys roll their eyes. “What’re you doing here?”

“Dad told me he emailed you and told you I was coming down a day earlier! I didn’t know you had work.”

“I haven’t checked my email in like a week. You could have texted me.” I said laughing. “I didn’t see your car outside?”

“Annie is with me. She ran to the store to get some stuff for lunch since all you have in your fridge is basically wine and cold pizza.” He said laughing. Annie was Jake’s girlfriend, whom I loved to death. She was a year younger then Jake, which was a bummer because she wasn’t twenty one just yet and never came out with us but she was a blast to hang out with. It also helped that they had been dating since Jake was 15 so I had about 6 years to get used to another girl being around.

“Necessities.” I said smiling, then turning back to Cole who was watching us from across the room. “So I take it you guys are all introduced now.” I said, looking back and forth between the two. I suddenly felt a little nervous. I never introduced guys to my family until after like a month usually, especially not my over protective brothers. And here we were, doing introductions the afternoon after mine and Cole’s first sleep over and only second date. Lucky me.

“Yea, your brother came in when I was making my coffee. Thanks for that by the way.” He said smiling down at me. “I think we pretty much scared the shit out of each other.” He said laughing.

“I knew someone was here, because I know you don’t own a bike that nice,” Jake said looking over at me, “but you didn’t mention a boyfriend last we talked, so I was a little skeptical to come inside. Thought I had the wrong house for a second.”

I laughed, trying to brush off my brother calling Cole my boyfriend. I liked how it sounded, but it was only a few days into this and I didn’t want him to tuck tail and run because things were moving too fast. Hell, I didn’t want to scare myself away from it by moving too fast. Instead of correcting him I did what I do best, removed myself from that conversation.

“Well I’m going to go change out of my work clothes, I smell like bagels and coffee.” I said laughing, “Jake make yourself comfortable, although I’m sure you already have.” I said raising an eyebrow at his shoes making a small pile off to the side and his wallet and sunglasses spread out on the counter.

I turned and ran upstairs, sitting on my bed. Suddenly Andrew flashed through my mind. What if it had been him? That was too close of a call. Maybe I should just tell him I can’t see him yet. I thought about it then grabbed my phone and typed in his number, pulling up a blank message, and wrote:

Can’t meet up for lunch today. Need more time. Have a good weekend. Maybe we can talk another time, but I can’t just yet. I’m not saying no, but I’m not saying yes to anything either. I just can’t see you yet. I hope you understand.  I just need time and space. Please don’t come into the café again either. I will come to you when I’m ready.

I starred at the message, my thumb hovering over the send button. My head shot up as I heard my bedroom door opening, and before I knew it my thumb was brushing against my phone and the message had been sent. No turning back now. And surprisingly I was okay with that. I smiled genuinely and tossed my phone across my bed.

“Sorry about that,” I whispered as Cole walked into the room, shutting the door behind him. “I had no idea he was coming today. No one was supposed to be here until tomorrow.” I added, apologetic.

“Don’t apologize, your brother is cool. Kind of awkward at first, but you weren’t kidding when you said earlier that he knows his bikes. So at least we had that to talk about. Plus he wasn’t too mean when he warned me about you.” He said laughing as he sat on the bed, laying back and pulling me down with him.

I looked over at him, mortified, “did he really?” I asked, “I’m sorry!”

He chuckled and rolled over a little, resting on top of me and kissing me deeply, “Jess, its fine, really. I do the same for my sisters.” He said, kissing me again, “you didn’t tell him I wasn’t your boyfriend earlier…” he whispered, looking down at me more intently now.

I wrinkled my nose, looking up at him and kissed him softly. God I hate these conversations. “I don’t want to rush into anything. I didn’t want to agree with him and scare you off. But I didn’t want to disagree and give you the wrong idea. I think this…” I said nodding between the two of us, “is going good, and I’d like for it to head in that direction if you do. I didn’t want to ruin it by opening my mouth.” I admitted, nervously meeting his gaze. My eyes on his, trying to figure out what he was thinking.

He smiled wide and plopped on top of me, crushing me as I laughed and wriggled under him. “Cole!” I exclaimed laughing as hard as any person could with another crushing them. Finally he lifted up and kissed me, hard and sloppily, “I agree with everything you just said. Soon enough you’ll let them call me your boyfriend,” he added cockily, and I have to admit, it was kind of sexy, “and that crushing you was payback for your little teasing stunt this morning,” he said smirking down at me and laughing. “You should get changed so we can go eat lunch, I think I heard someone else come inside.” He whispered climbing off the bed and pulling me up off it with him.

I raised my arm and hand up to salute him, “yes sir” I said giggling and turned towards my closet.

“You’re such a brat,” he said laughing as he headed for the door to allow me to change.

--------

“How much do I owe for the sandwich?” I asked Annie. After long hellos between the two of us, and introducing her to Cole, the four of us were sat around the table on my back deck with amazing sandwiches from a deli nearby.

“Nothing, Cole actually paid for it all.” Annie said, smiling from me to him.

I smiled, reaching over and resting my hand on Cole’s leg under the table. Literally, this guy was too nice and sweet to be true. “You didn’t have to do that...” I whispered when Annie and Jake were in their own conversation.

“I know, but I wanted too.” He said leaning over and kissing me quickly. “I should be heading out soon.”

I glanced at the clock on the side of my house, 2 o’clock already. “I’ll walk you out.” I said smiling and started grabbing garbage and things from the table to bring inside with me. Cole followed close behind carrying whatever I couldn’t. He shut the sliding door behind us, coming up behind me at the island in the kitchen, placing everything on the counters, his arms coming around me as he did. I turned around and smiled up at him, my arms snaking around his waist, “Thank you for lunch,” I whispered inching closer to him, “and thank for being so chill about this little family luncheon,” I said laughing a little then kissing him.

“I really enjoyed it,” he whispered between soft kisses. Each once seeming to get harder and greedier. “I work tomorrow, Saturday and Sunday night now.”

“Yea, I work until five tomorrow then my older brother, dad, and niece are coming to town until Sunday night probably.”

“How about we see a movie on Tuesday night?” he suggested, smiling.

“Sounds perfect, I get out of work at 4.”

“Well then, I will see you around then,” he whispered kissing me hard, pulling me into him as we started to make out a little more intensely now. His arms sliding down under my butt and lifting me up onto the island counter. His hands slid back around my body, fingers trailing over my stomach under my shirt as my legs wrapped around him. I giggled, harder then expected, as his fingers trailed over my ticklish sides, bringing us both back to reality. “I’ll text you over the weekend.” He whispered, kissing me again lightly, his hands resting on my bare thighs.

“Sounds good,” I said smiling, hopping off the counter and following him over to the front door.

I hugged him bye, pulling away as he pulled me back and kissed me deeply again, “Just to hold me over until Tuesday,” he whispered, laughing then walked to his bike and started it up, waving as he pulled out of the driveway.

Holy Cannoli

It didn’t take long for me to fall asleep after Cole dropped me off last night. The date was amazing and I was so happy I agreed to go. Cole was definitely someone I enjoyed being around, and it was also great hanging out with someone whose best friend is dating my best friend. Thank you Sky and Tom.

I didn’t have work on Wednesdays, and was glad I could spend the day laying out with a book. I had yet to do so since moving here and was determined to today.

I climbed out of bed and tied my hair up into the messiest knottiest bun I possibly could and washed my face. Returning to my room I changed into a white string bikini. No use in showering before getting all gross from tanning. I grabbed my latest Cosmo magazine that had come in the mail yesterday and the grabbed The Fault in Our Stars off my night stand. I had already read it but was looking to brush up on it before the movie came out. Which I still can’t believe Shailene Woodley was picked to be in. Can’t stand her. But the book is amazing so a reread under the sun would be great for today. 

I walked out onto the balcony that was attached to my room. I’m not talking big party balcony, but it fit a decent sized lawn chair that I could lay down on and a small table so it was perfect. I tossed my book and magazine onto the chair then walked back inside to get a towel, my tanning oil and a bottle of water.

Returning back outside I settled in my chair and got lost in my book. If I had a super power it would probably be speed reading. Before I knew it I was already half way done with the book and it was just after noon. I decided to put it down and just lay out and relax for a little. I covered myself in a gross amount of tanning oil and scanned the beach before laying back and closing my eyes. I don’t know how much time had passed but I was suddenly being awaken by someone calling my name. I looked around confused as I sat up a little. It wasn’t until I looked down off my balcony that I saw Cole standing just under it, wearing only running shorts and running shoes. Were those tattoos on his chest and shoulder?! Yummy.

“Sleeping up there?” He asked laughing as he shielded his eyes with his hand and looked up at me.

“I think I may have drifted off,” I said laughing, “any longer and I’d probably look like a lobster later on.”

“No work today?” he called up.

I stood and leaned against the balcony looking down at him now. Unfortunately I was still gross and covered in tanning oil, but on the bright side this bikini made me look good. “I’m off on Wednesdays, no work for you again?” He shook his head no, smiling as I stood. “Do you want a drink?” I asked, laughing when I realized we probably looked pretty silly just yelling to each other.

“Yea sure, I could use some water, hot today!” he shouted.

I turned and headed inside, making my way downstairs and grabbing a bottle of water then meeting him out on the back deck. I smiled and tossed him the water, “I would give you a hug but I’m disgusting right now,” I said laughing a little as I motioned down to my oily skin.

“Yea I’m all sweaty from running anyways.” He said smiling, “maybe I can see you after I get done working out and get that hug then,” he added, smirking.

I laughed and took a seat next to him on the deck stairs, watching as daisy chased a few seagulls, “I would like that,” I said smiling as I glanced over at him a little, my eyes scanning over his tattoos that covered both shoulders and one half of his chest. Trying not to stare I looked back down the beach, “What time are you thinking?”

He glanced at his phone, “Well it’s just about one thirty now, how about I pick you up at three?” he suggested, looking over to see if that would be okay. “I’ll pick you up on the bike? We can go for a ride and then grab something to eat after?”

“Sounds great,” I said smiling as he stood. I took the empty bottle of water from him to throw away, my hand brushing against him. I shivered a little, blushing as I remembered our kiss from last night. Cole was probably the only man who could make me get goose bumps on the hottest day of the summer so far.

I laughed when my eye caught his and I realized he was watching me intently. “What?” I asked seeing him smirk when our eyes met.

“Nothing.” He said smiling, “You just look really pretty today.” He said leaning in and kissing me quickly then turning to jog back towards the water, “I’ll see you at three!” he called up the beach to me then headed in the other direction, leaving me standing on my back deck, staring at the tattoos that also covered his back as he disappeared down the beach.

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Three o’clock rolled around and I was absolutely shocked at myself for being ready on time. After Cole ran off I took a shower which felt amazing after being in the hot sun all day, and ended up being 15 minutes longer then a normal shower should be. But oh well.

I decided on wearing jeans, (which I was dreading putting on but I wasn’t about to burn my legs on the bike) and a black tank top which was tight and made my small boobs like HUGE…something I was extremely proud of. I tucked in the tank top so it wouldn’t fly up while we rode around then finished the outfit with a pair of black converse. I blew dry my hair quickly, regretting every minute of it as I downed cold water to ty and cool off again. Man I hated being a girl in the summer sometimes. I pulled my hair back and twisted it into a knot then clipped it.

As I raced around the house closing all the windows and turning the ac’s on I heard the bike coming down the street. My stomach filled with butterflies as the noise got louder and louder. I don’t know what I was nervous for but I felt like I could puke.  I took a deep breath and downed some water to calm my nerves.

Just as I let daisy inside and locked the back door I heard Cole knock. I turned the lights off and grabbed my wallet and keys then opened the door and smiled.

Before I could even say hello Cole’s arms were around me and his lips were on mine. The kiss started off gentle and soft but grew more passionate and deep as it went on. Finally he pulled away and smiled down at me.

“Hello to you too” I said laughing as I looked up at him.

“You wouldn’t let me do that earlier, and I couldn’t wait any longer.” He said smiling as he backed out of my house allowing me to shut and lock the front door. “Sorry..”

“No sorry needed, I could get used to hellos like that,” I said laughing and followed him down the drive way to his bike.

He was wearing jeans and a blue t-shirt now. Although the man looked amazing shirtless, even clothed he was a great sight to look at. I smiled as he spread his arms out motioning towards the bike, “Jessica, I would like you to meet my baby,” he said laughing. The bike was all blacked out, with a black helmet sitting on the seat. It truly was a beautiful motorcycle.

“She’s beautiful” I said smiling up at him. He handed me the helmet and I pulled it on, handing him my keys and wallet for him to put in the small bag attached to the back. I tugged on the helmet, adjusting my hair then smiled.  Man was I glad my makeup looked good this afternoon because my hair was sure as hell going to look ridiculous from this helmet.

Cole knocked on the helmet and leaned in, kissing me softly then climbed onto the bike. I climbed on after him, straddling the bike and holding onto him gently.

“Ready?” he called back to me as he started the engine and began rolling out of the drive way and onto the street.

“Ready!” I yelled back, smiling. Being able to hold Cole this close to me while we rode around was definitely a bonus. Not to mention he looked amazingly sexy on the bike. I held on tighter as he sped up a little, making his way down the road. I knew were we were as he rode along the beaches, but it wasn’t long before I didn’t recognize where we were.

Cole effortlessly made his way down windy roads, until we reached to one that followed alongside a river for countless miles. It was amazing.

Before I knew it he was pulling into a dirt parking lot alongside the river. Food trucks lined the parking lot, ranging from hotdogs to burritos to a smoothie truck. He cut the engine, parking and holding the bike steady as I climbed off. I took off my helmet, eagerly trying to fix my hair while he fished his wallet out of the bag and wasn’t paying attention. I ran my fingers through it then pulled it into a low loose braid, not my best work but it would do. “You still look great,” he whispered coming around the bike next to me and kissed me softly, “I hope you’re hungry!” he said smiling then turned and grabbed my hand, holding it as he walked over to the food trucks.

I smiled, glancing up at him as he made his way from truck to truck, ordering us dinner without even thinking twice. It was obvious that he had been here before.

Ten minutes later we both sat down at a picnic table near the water, surrounded by the most amazing smelling foods. Cole had ordered us burgers and fries with a black and white milkshake to share. Corny date move, but it was sweet. Off to the side was two gigantic cannoli’s for dessert. My favorite! As tempted as I was to skip right to the cannoli, I took a bite of my burger. Holy cow, food truck burgers are way better then they sound.

“This food is amazing,” I said smiling, continuing to eat my burger and fries. “Have you been here before?” I asked looking across the table at him.

“My dad and I used to take the bikes here for lunch every Sunday, when he was still able to ride.” He said smiling, “I’m glad you enjoyed it. I don’t know too many girls who would be thrilled about food trucks” he said laughing, “but I’m starting to get the feeling that you’re not like most girls around here.” He added, smirking over at me. “And I love that.”

I blushed and laughed a little, “I think this is great,” I said motioning to the food trucks, and the river. “I am really happy you brought me here.” I said smiling as I reached over and placed my hand on top of his. I took it in his, squeezing it a little then let go of it to keep eating. I followed, finishing what I could of my burger and fries, then picking at one of the cannolis. And all I can say about it is holy cannoli. That bad boy was delicious.

“I think this is the best cannoli I have ever eaten,” I said laughing as I took another bite. “And that’s saying a lot because I have tried a lot of cannoli’s…they’re my favorite.” He laughed and reached over, wiping some of the sugar off the corner of my mouth. My eyes met his as his finger brushed against my skin.

“I’ll have to keep that in mind,” he said smiling, taking a big bite of his. My eyes still staring over at him, my skin was on fire from him touching me. I had to keep telling myself to keep it together or I was going to look like a fool, but damn I had wanted him.

We finished eating and he cleaned off the table, throwing the trash away as I stood and adjusted my tank top a little. “Wanna walk along the water?” he asked walking back over.

I shook my head eagerly, smiling up at him as he took my hand, his fingers locking into mine and we made our way to the river bank, walking along side it.

“Earlier, you said you used to come here when your dad was able to ride…” I said looking up at him, trying to judge if I should push the issue or not. His facial expression didn’t change so I decided to go for it. “Why can’t he anymore?” I asked softly.

“My dad had a massive heart attack about two years ago. Thankfully he was pulled over taking a break from a ride he was on with his friends. I can’t even begin to imagine what would have happened if they had been riding…” he said softly. I squeezed his hand a little in mine, looking up at him as we continued to walk. “Since that day my mom won’t let him back on the bike. I know it kills him to not ride anymore, but it’s for the best. He hasn’t been the same since that day.”

I leaned into him a little, holding his hand tightly in mine still. “Do you miss riding with him?” I asked softly, hoping I wasn’t pushing it too far.

“Every time I’m on the bike…” he said softly, stopping and looking down at me. “But I think I’ve found someone new to join me on my rides now. No more riding alone all the time…” he said smiling and kissed me quickly before wrapping his arm around me and continuing on down the path. “And I must admit, I like having a riding partner who’s on the back of my bike now instead of on their own.” He said smiling. “Does your mom freak out when your dad is out on the bike?” he asked.

Ah my mom. I sighed, not wanting that topic to ruin the mood. But I was okay with sharing things with Cole. “My mom isn’t in the picture...” I said softly, trying to decide whether or not I wanted to continue on. Cole opened his mouth, and I could tell it was to change the subject but I cut him off before he could. I wanted him to know about my family and about me. He had just shared his dad’s story with me, and it was time for me to open up a little too.

“My mom left us when I was four. Just before my younger brother, Jake turned one.” I said, looking up at him. “My dad and her met at a bike week in Myrtle Beach, so my dad didn’t ride for a while after she left. But when I was about nine-ish he started to ride again. Hasn’t stopped since.” I said smiling. 

“And you haven’t seen her since?” Cole asked, almost hesitantly.

“Not even once. And I’m not even sure I would want too…”

“Well she missed out on an amazing women.” He said, pulling me closer into him and kissing the top of the head. “Wanna head back now? Ride a little more then I’ll get you home before its dark?” he asked as we turned and headed back towards the bike.

“Perfect,” I said smiling as I glanced up at him, although deep down I didn’t want to go home. I was enjoying our time together.

 After a short ride around the river, Cole made his way towards my house. And before I knew it we were in my driveway. I climbed off the bike and handed him my helmet, taking my keys and wallet in my other hand as I did. He clipped the helmet to the back of the bike then walked me to the front door. “Thank you for coming with me,” he whispered as he leaned in and kissed me softly, his lips lingering over mine before he pulled away.

I pouted a little as he pulled away and he laughed looking down at me. “What’s that face for?”

I shrugged and laughed, “It’s a secret.”

“Oh? Really?” He asked laughing and pulled me into him, tickling my sides a little. I started laughing and shrieking a little, trying to stay quiet as I wiggled in his hold. “Gonna tell me now?” he asked, his fingers digging into my sides and tickling me more.

“Fine!” I exclaimed, looking around to see if any of my nosey neighbors were watching. Sure enough the little old Asian lady across the street had stopped watering her plants and was now staring. “We have an audience” I whispered, motioning over to her and giggling. 

“Don’t you dare change the subject,” he whispered, laughing as he leaned into me. Going up on my tip toes I kissed him deeply. My tongue teasingly brushing over his, before I pulled away and looked up at him. “That’s not going to distract me either,” he whispered against my lips, smirking.

I laughed and leaned back, looking up at him. “Fine…” I said smiling, “I had a great time this afternoon and I just didn’t want you to leave...” I whispered. Looking up at him, nervous he was going to think I was needy or something.

“What if I told you I didn’t want to go…?” He said smiling and took my keys from my hand, unlocking the door and pushing it open. I blast of cold air came at us from the air conditioners being on so high, and I was thankful left them on, because it felt amazing.

Cole turned and waved goodbye to the peeping tom across the street sending me into a laughing fit, then scooped me up and walked inside, locking the door behind us.

Wisdom teeth can suck it

Just got my wisdom teeth pulled. I'll post when I feel up to it. Sorry guys!