Fated Bliss (Bliss #2) (7 page)

“Hey,” Paul grumbled, scowling. “I’m a catch, too.”

“She’s way too good for you,” Ben joined in on the ribbing.

Wait?!

Red hair.

Pregnant.

Appointment today.

Realization dawned.

Ben wasn’t with his girlfriend earlier; he was with Paul’s wife!

I wanted to laugh and jump up and down in elation.

Thank you, Jesus!

Yes, my trip was definitely turning for the better.

Chapter 5

Ben

Samantha’s here.

The gorgeous woman that I couldn’t banish from my thoughts no matter how hard I tried was sitting next to me.

And to think Paul and Maggie had to cajole me into coming, telling me I needed to get out and have some fun for once. Of course I was looking forward to seeing Lyric again – it has been way too long – but I would have much rather done it at their place or a restaurant, not a club.

Funny how life throws you curve balls.

At first, Samantha was standoffish and unhappy to see me, which I thought was strange. Yeah, when we separated I knew she wasn’t thrilled that I didn’t ask to see her again – she had a horrible poker face, and I could read her every emotion. However, we parted on good terms. The hesitancy didn’t make sense.

But now…
whoa
…she was glowing, beaming her first real smile since she’d arrived. It transformed her from beautiful to holy-shit-gorgeous.

The dress helped…
undeniably
. It should be illegal. It clung to her delicate curves and dipped low, providing a bird’s-eye view of her ample cleavage. The translucent ivory skin beckoned me. I wondered if it was as tasty as it looked.

Is my mouth watering?

“What’s with that goofy grin you’ve got going on?” Lyric questioned.

It took a moment to realize she wasn’t talking to me but was shooting Samantha an odd look.

Samantha stilled, her eyes darting to each of us in…panic?

What was running through this beautiful creature’s mind?

“Nothin’…” Samantha slowly drawled. “Just…um…your banter reminds me a lot of my family’s. I was just thinkin’ about them.”

God, that voice.

It was another thing that replayed through my mind these last few days. It was low and smoky, with a slight huskiness.

“Missing home?” I questioned, wanting her eyes on me.

As if she heard my wish, that golden gaze met mine. Her tongue snuck out and swept her lower, full lip. My heart jolted, and my dick became painfully hard in my jeans.

Holy shit.

How could a movement so small and subtle be that erotic?

“A little,” she admitted, her sexy lips curving upward. “I’m used to bein’ around them all the time.”

I wanted to punch Paul when he said, “From your accent and my sister’s nickname for you, you’re from South Carolina.”

I wanted her eyes on me, and only me.

Samantha fixated on Paul. “North Carolina.”

“What part?” I questioned, playing it cool. “We’re familiar with the area.”

Lyric and Paul were baffled by my comment. I gave them a subtle shake of the head, letting them know to keep their mouths shut.

“A small town outside of Asheville,” Samantha revealed, casually stirring her straw in her drink, having no idea she’d rocked my world.

What are the odds?

Bliss was outside of Asheville, as well. She’d be close to me once our vacation was over.

I had to shove the knowledge aside forcefully. I needed to stay focused. There was too much to do once I returned. I needed to think about Lincoln and my future, about mending our relationship. A woman should be the least of my concern. Plus, Gwen had fucked with my head so thoroughly that it wouldn’t be fair to Samantha to jump into a relationship with her so soon after the split. There were remaining issues I needed to process.

Whoa!

A relationship?!

Where did that thought come from?

I was about to ask her the name of her town, but Lyric interrupted me.

“Where’s our waitress? I could use another drink.” Lyric narrowed her eyes at me, informing me that she wouldn’t let me get any more info out of Samantha unless I coughed up some of my own.

Damn meddling woman.

“Me too,” Samantha agreed. Samantha’s lips wrapped around her straw, drawing my attention in like a beacon, and finished her drink. “But I need somethin’ a little less…uh…potent.” She became bashful. “I downed that too quickly.”

“I’ll make sure you get to your room okay,” I assured her, my voice rougher than I intended.

Shit, it sounded as if I expected to go to her hotel with her.

I cleared my throat and added, “You know…if you and Lyric want to let loose a little, Paul and I will take care of you and watch your back. You can’t be too careful.”

What in the hell has this woman done to me? I sounded like a prepubescent boy, falling all over his words.

Face-palm, anyone?

Paul choked on his drink, trying to keep from laughing. For the second time, I wanted to deck him.

“Oh, thank you, Benjy,” Lyric cooed, rolling her eyes sarcastically. “But I’m a big girl.”

“That’s sweet of you, Ben,” Samantha murmured, staring at me from underneath her long black lashes.

I’m a goner.

That look was so innocent and so damn sexy at the same time, I wanted to crush my mouth against hers and taste those pouty lips for the first time. I wanted to tear her clothes from her body and discover every treasure hidden underneath.

And I thought my dick was painfully hard before.

Samantha stood suddenly, tearing my attention from her lips. “I’m gonna, uh, run to the ladies room.” She fumbled with her small clutch, her motions jerky. “I’ll be right back.” She turned without waiting for a response and disappeared into the crowd, practically sprinting away.

I watched the area where she disappeared, confused.

“Great job, Casanova,” Lyric teased, her eyes dancing. “You ran her off.”

“I did not,” I denied, my embarrassment creeping its way up my neck.

Did I?

Paul slapped the table, hooting, “Oh, God! That was awesome! You were looking at her like you wanted to eat her, and she sat there all doe-eyed, on the verge of hyperventilating.”

I shot them a withering stare. “Fuck off.”

Lyric’s face lost all traces of humor. “What in the hell is wrong with you?”

I threw my hands up in aggravation. “I don’t know what I’m doing, Lyric. I was married for fifteen years, remember?” I ran my palm down my face, taking a deep breath. “I haven’t dated or flirted with anyone since high school. Cut me some slack.”

“God, I hate your father,” Lyric griped, her jaw flexing. “He made you marry that cow after everything she did to you.”

I didn’t want to think about my father or Gwen
or
take the chance that Samantha would overhear us. “Drop it.”

Lyric wasn’t swayed, continuing, “Honestly, who does that to his kid? You were just a baby.”

“Seriously, Lyric, not tonight.”

“He’s right,” Paul agreed, nudging her with his elbow.

Lyric growled audibly and closed her eyes, trying to reign in her temper. Once she was under control, she met my gaze and tilted her head. “Do you like her?”

I chuckled and tossed back the remainder of my beer. “You’re just now catching on?”

“Don’t be an asshole, Ben. Do you like her?” she repeated, emphasizing each word.

“Obviously. What’s not to like,” I answered and slumped in defeat.

“She’s nice, Ben.
Real
. She’s the complete opposite of Gwen.”

“I know.” I observed Lyric, wondering where she was heading with this. “It’s
why
I like her. I’ve had to talk myself down from finding her the last few days. I came here to spend time with my son, not meet someone. What am I supposed to do with this?”

Paul eyed me like I’d grown a second head. “Who says you have to do anything about it? You’re both consenting adults, and you’re both on vacation. Just have fun with her.”

The waitress chose that moment to interrupt us. Thankfully. I was hoping they’d end the discussion.

I had no such luck.

Once the waitress took off again, Paul inquired, “Why didn’t you tell her you just moved to North Carolina?”

“Why would I, Paul? When I get back, I’ve got to jump into work at the clinic. I have to get Linc settled and pray he’s happy. Also, I barely know Samantha. The last relationship I was in, the woman was completely insane. I have zero trust right now. And the kicker, I have more baggage than even I know how to deal with – I wouldn’t saddle my worst enemy with it.”

“Don’t let Gwen or your father take that away from you, too,” Lyric advised, her voice chilling. “They’ve stolen your happiness once; don’t let them continue to have that hold on you, Ben.”

Tension built in my head, and if we didn’t stop soon, I was going to explode. “Can we not talk about this anymore?”

“Fine,” Lyric relented. “But don’t sell yourself short. You don’t have to make anyone any promises. For once, have some fun, enjoy your time with Samantha. You like her; she likes you. I don’t see why it has to be such a big deal.”

“How do you know she likes me?” I questioned, unsure.

Lyric grinned. “You are so stupid sometimes.” She rolled her eyes at me. “Yes, she likes you. Just act casual and be yourself. Don’t try to force it. Have fun, Ben.”

Am I really getting advice on how to interact with a woman?

Yes.

Yes, I am.

I believe I’d just sunken to a new low.

Wonderful.

Chapter 6

Samantha

I rested my
hands on the bathroom counter and hung my head, willing my heartbeat and breathing to slow down.

Holy shit, that was intense.

I’d never been stared at like Ben had stared at me a few moments ago. I could almost feel his hands on me, it was so powerful.

I had to be careful here. Technically, I’d only met this man twice, and my cravings for him were already addicting. When our time was up and we went our separate ways, what was going to happen to me?

I was crushed earlier when I thought Ben had a pregnant girlfriend. If I spent more time with him, my attraction would burn brighter, maybe mature into something more profound. I was positive I wouldn’t walk away unscathed. I’d get hurt.

Could I allow this to go further knowing that?

Don’t be a coward, Sam.

Okay, Ben terrified me – I could admit that to myself. The strength of our chemistry scared the living shit out of me. But if I walked away now, forgot I ever met him, I’d rob myself of the chance to explore what this was between us, something I never felt with Patrick, the man I once loved.

Not happening.

There was no way in hell I’d let fear guide me. I was determined to walk back out there and see where this went. A few days – hell, even one night – was worth a little pain. I could deal with a bit of pain.

Been there, done that.

With a new resolve, I washed my hands and refreshed my red lipstick, smacking my lips together.

Ben wouldn’t know what hit him.

Now that I was determined, there was an extra swing in my hips as I made the trek back upstairs. Men noticed and attempted to gain my attention. It bolstered my confidence more.

When I arrived at the table, the three of them were laughing at something. Ben noticed me first and stood. As I passed him, he placed a hand at the base of my spine and guided me towards my stool. That initial zing that I’d felt when we first touched days ago had intensified into an electric current. By Ben’s gasp, I knew I wasn’t the only one feeling it.

“You okay, Ben?” Paul questioned as we sat.

“Fine,” Ben replied, his voice husky. “Why?”

Paul snickered. “No reason.”

They’d been talking about me, but I wasn’t annoyed. It was bound to happen after the look he gave me that caused me to retreat – they’d have to be blind and stupid not to notice it.

Our waitress arrived with fresh drinks. Instead of my Crown and Coke, she placed a Dos Equis in front of me. I glanced at Ben, touched he remembered.

“You said you wanted something else,” Ben explained sheepishly.

I flaunted a flirty smile, murmuring, “Thanks.”

Again, his eyes dropped to my mouth. I wondered what wicked things were going through his mind.

Save that for later, Sam.

“So, where are y’all from originally?” I questioned.

“Portland,” all three of them responded and laughed.

I assumed Ben was from Phoenix since he was on the connecting flight from there.

Interesting.

“Did y’all grow up together?”

“Don’t you love it when she says
y’all
?” Lyric remarked and rested her chin in her palm. “It’s so cute.”

I suppressed an eye-roll.

“It is cute,” Ben agreed, but his eyes said something entirely different…like
I want to eat you
.

Cue that blasted blush again.

How does he do that to me so easily?

“To answer your question,” Paul said, shooting Ben an amused look, “no, we didn’t grow up together. Lyric and I met Ben through Maggie.”

“How long have you two been together?”

If Paul was annoyed by my interrogation, he didn’t show it. “Married four years, but we’ve been together seven.”

“Why didn’t she come tonight? I would’ve loved to meet her.”

“Loud music and crowds aren’t her scene. Maggie is more of a book and a cup of tea type.” He motioned between himself and Lyric. “Maggie understands our love for live music, so she doesn’t mind when we plan a night out. She says it gives us bonding time.”

“What about you, Carolina?” Lyric searched. There was something mischievous in her expression. “No boyfriend or husband at home waiting for you?”

“Nope,” I answered, letting the
p
pop. “Thankfully, I’ve been single for a couple of years.”

Ben grinned wryly. “Bad breakup?”

Damn.

I was going to have to tell them about Patrick.

I sighed and took a pull off my beer.

Lyric shot Ben a look that clearly meant
shut up
and stated, “I think that’s a big yes. She doesn’t have to get into it.”

“It’s fine.” I waved her off, having nothing to hide. “Yeah, it was pretty messy. My ex and I were high school sweethearts, together for ten years. While he was in Vegas for a bachelor party, he married a stripper. He didn’t even call to warn me. I found out when she posted pictures on Facebook and tagged him.”

“Yikes,” Lyric groaned, while Ben and Paul made sympathetic noises.

“Yeah…wasn’t the best feelin’,” I admitted, trying to act optimistic. “It’s all in the past now.”

“Well, at least you found out he was a prick before you got married,” Paul pointed out. “Wait. You weren’t married, were you?”

“God, no.” I laughed. “But I should have realized it wasn’t goin’ anywhere when he never proposed. I figured we were still young, so I didn’t push.”

“Lucky you,” Ben commented, but there was something dark in his eyes.

I was about to open my mouth and question him, but he pulled his phone from his pocket and checked his screen.

“Shit. It’s Lincoln.” He offered me an apologetic glance. “I have to take this.” Without another word, he left.

Who’s Lincoln?

Paul continued, not worried about Ben’s disappearance. “So, Samantha-”

“Sam,” I stopped him. “I prefer Sam. Samantha is a mouthful.”

Paul’s lips twitched. “Sam, then. What is it that you do?”

I gave them the same spiel I’d given Ben a couple of days ago, telling them all about the B&B.

“That’s interesting…and different,” Paul stated when I was done, his nose slightly crinkled.

“You never told us the name of the town you live in,” Lyric pointed out, intrigued. Startled by her question, Paul whipped his face toward Lyric. “Maybe we can visit one day.”

Even though I knew the possibilities of that happening were slim to none, I answered, “It’s about an hour outside of Asheville, way up in the mountains. I’m sure you’ve never heard of it.”

Lyric cocked her head, daring me. “You’d be surprised.”

“Fine.” I chuckled. “Bliss. I’m from Bliss.”

Paul and Lyric had the exact look of shock written on their faces – mouths gaping and eyes bulging.

“What?” I didn’t understand their reaction. “Have you heard of it?”

Lyric broke into a fit of giggles, barely able to breathe. Paul shook his head, astonishment slacking his face.

“What?!” I cried, shouting almost, and laughed.

Paul scratched the side of his head and glanced out into the crowd.

Was he searching for Ben?

Lyric settled down somewhat and replied, “We have extended family that lives there.”

“Really?” I breathed, awed. “That’s insane!”

“You have no idea,” Paul muttered, pressing his lips together.

Lyric and Paul shared a look and began an unspoken conversation. Grey and I were like that, too. It drove my mother nuts when we were younger, because that’s when we got into the most mischief or we were hoping to hide whatever it was that we did wrong that day.

Finally, Paul groaned and put his head in his hands. Lyric grinned in triumph, clearly winning whatever discussion they were having.

“What are their names?” I probed when they didn’t say anything else. “The town isn’t that big; I’m sure I know them.”

“Oh, I’m sure you know him,” Lyric confessed, holding in her laughter again.

What was so freaking funny about this?

“And…?”

“I’m sure you call him Dr. Melbourne, but we call him Pops.”

“No way!” I cried, floored. “I love Dr. Melbourne!”

Paul leaned forward and rested his head on the table, unable to control his laughter. Lyric appeared proud of herself for some reason and smiled wide.

“Is he your grandfather?” I asked, but that didn’t add up. From what I recalled – he was rather chatty during his exams – Dr. Melbourne had one daughter and she only had a son.

Lyric shook her head. “No. He’s a…great uncle, I guess you could say. It’s a bit complex.”

Before I could interrogate her further, cheers rang out from the crowd below and the band took the stage. They started playing immediately, ending our discussion – there was no way to talk over the loud music.

I made a mental note to tell Dr. Melbourne that I met his kin while in London. The old man would get a hoot out of it.

“Shots!” Lyric hollered over the music and made Paul stop the waitress passing us. He paid for three tubes and then handed them over. Lyric held up her glass and shouted, “To fate!”

Okay...

I guess that made sense in a weird sort of way.

“To fate,” I repeated, and we clinked our glasses together.

The initial burn faded quickly, but the liquid, whatever it was, warmed me. I stood and rested my hips against the railing. From the corner of my eye, I noticed Lyric doing the same.

We stared down at the stage and watched the band play. They were really good. The singer was full of life, a true entertainer. She felt the lyrics she belted out, giving life to the music as she danced across the stage.

The song was faster than the one I heard when we arrived, and I found myself swaying to the beat. I started loosening a bit, then really got into it, raising my hands in the air as I rocked my hips from side to side. I loved to dance. It got your blood pumping, your endorphins raging.

Suddenly, Ben placed his hands on both side of the rail, his powerful arms surrounding me, and leaned in – I could feel his heat against my back. A low flame erupted in my belly and slowly tendriled outward. Lord in heaven, even my heart fluttered.

“Having fun?” Ben asked against my ear.

My skin tingled.

Everywhere.

I merely nodded, not able to voice an answer. My throat was dry, my tongue thick.

“Good,” he replied in a whisper, his mouth closer.

I had to suppress a whimper. His breath against my neck was heady, prickling my senses. I wanted him closer, yearned for his touch, for him to rest his lips on my skin. He was torturing me, plain and simple, and I was positive that was his intention because he didn’t move.

Act natural, Sam. Take it easy.

Ben didn’t step away as we listened to a few more songs. I was keenly aware of him, indifferent to the notes coming from the singer’s mouth or what anyone was doing around us.

It was maddening.

I’d let him take the lead practically the whole evening – heck, since I met him – but I decided enough was enough. I wanted him, and I was going to use everything in my arsenal to get him.

After allowing myself a few moments to build the courage, I turned slowly. Ben’s eyes were on me, not the stage, when I faced him. I leaned to the side, purposefully letting a breast brush against his arm, and placed my beer on the table, not tearing my eyes from his smoldering ones.

“Come on,” I mouthed.

He angled his head to the side, silently questioning where.

I presented a sultry smile and sidestepped him, starting to lead him away from the table.

“Where are you going?” Lyric called out as she noticed us.

I paused and shouted, “We’ll be back in a few. Watch my clutch, would you?”

She nodded and grabbed my bag, sticking it under her arms, and swiveled back towards the stage, not giving us another thought.

Ben intertwined our fingers as we moved through the crowd and descended the stairs, but he stopped me as I was about to pull him onto the dance floor. He placed a hand on my hip, anchoring me in place, and murmured in my ear. “Where are you taking me?”

I slanted my head back, wanting to see his face. “Dancin’. You and I are gonna dance.”

He frowned, indecision waging war in his eyes. “I don’t dance, Samantha.”

“You do now,” I sassed. “Come on. Just follow my lead.”

He exhaled harshly and gave me an amused smirk.

I’d won.

I covered the hand on my hip and swayed as I guided Ben through the dancers until we were in the center of the dance floor. I pivoted and found Ben pensive and stiff.

Now that just wouldn’t do
.