Disclaimer: I do not own Girl Meets World, the characters, the locations, the songs or quotes mentioned. But I do own this plot.

A/N: I want to apologize to your guys for my long hiatus. I've been so busy with work and have been getting sick a lot recently that I didn't have enough time to touch my laptop. So far work is dying down and I am getting better so hopefully I'll be able to upload FSOT and FM a lot more now. Thank you to all who were so patient for this upload, I really appreciate it.

Enjoy!

"To burn with desire and keep quiet about it is the greatest punishment we can bring on ourselves."

- Federico Garcia Lorca

I put a spell on you

Because you're mine

You better stop the things you do

I tell you I ain't lyin'

I ain't lyin'

You know I can't stand it

You're runnin' around

You know better than that

I can't stand it

Because you put me down

- I Put A Spell On You; Annie Lennox

Chapter Seven: Vanilla Latte

Something was vibrating. I couldn't tell if it was my head or something else. But I didn't move; I feel so warm and comfortable. Something was wrapped around me. Kind of like a cocoon. Something soft was beneath me, sort of like a cloud. And the scent was heavenly. What was that? Vanilla? Lavender? It was addictive.

"Hmm…" I hummed in delight as my eyes flutter open, my vision nothing but a haze. I let out a deep yawn as I stretched out my arms, popping my strained limbs, and arching my back slightly for good measure before I dropped back into the huge blob of marvelous cushion beneath me with a satisfied sigh. I blink a couple of times to take away the grogginess in my eyes and my eyesight was clear again.

The first thing I noticed was that the walls surrounding me were pure white. I was crowded by a crowd of pillows to support my head. Behind me was a large square headboard. There was a giant flatscreen television molded into the wall nearby the huge window - which, I am pleased to see was shut by the velvet red curtains - two tiny tables holding beige lamps and in the corner there was a small dining set for one person. Next to my bed was a door that I think leads to a bathroom. There was an entrance with no door at the foot of the bed where I could see a small peek of what I think is the living room.

I sigh and close my eyes. Everything felt so serene and tranquil. There was no noise of cars honking, people shouting at each other, the faint noises of the train racing along the rattling tracks, or of my neighbors being obnoxiously loud as the mothers scolded their children and the elders loudly talking. It was all peaceful, calm. I could go back to sleep and let the morning haze keep me at bay.

Except, it couldn't. Because this all felt so wrong.

My eyes pop open as I shot up from the mountain of pillows and frantically looked around me, now feeling a sheer sense of panic at the fact that I did not know where I was. This wasn't my room. That isn't my TV. This bed isn't mine. Where is Riley?

There was a vibration coming from one of the tables. I glanced at it to see my cellphone plugged into some wireless charger. I immediately reach for it and turn on the screen. It was seven-forty-two in the morning on a Saturday. Oh no. It was the weekend - Jonathan!

I check at all my recents and I let out a groan at the amount of times everybody tried to contact me.

78 missed calls.

112 messages.

70 voicemails.

The majority were from Cory, Topanga, and Josh. Each of them demanding to tell me where I was and to call them back soon or they were going to call the cops on me. I only had one of each from Riley and she didn't sound so worried in them. She sounded mostly smug and content. That oddly kept me at ease because Riley would have been the most insane if I had gone missing and probably would do anything dramatic to find me.

Honeybunch: You're probably sleeping right now but I just wanted to let you know I made it home okay. Chai kept me company the whole night. I'll called my parents and let them know that you're too sick to take care of Jon this weekend. Let me know when you're on your way home. I can't wait to hear everything. Love you, Peaches!

That was all that Riley sent me at three in the morning. My eyebrows furrowed in confusion. Who's Chai?

I didn't bother to think about it too much - mostly because my mind hasn't woken up yet and my head was throbbing painful from the massive hangover I'm going through. I place the phone back on the table when I noticed there was a glass of cool orange juice and two pills next to it. Beside them were two small signs; one said Drink Me and the other said Eat Me. I raised a suspicious brow. No signature. I'd rather take my chances with the hangover.

I slide off of the satin bed, feeling shivers crawl up my legs as my feet touch the cold carpet floor, and I slowly around the bed, feeling like an intruder breaking into somebody's home. The place wasn't particularly dark but it wasn't bright either; the light gleaming against the closed curtains was the usual light grey-white light of an early start of a morning but it was somehow darker. That was when I heard it; the same growl that occupied my ears in the most displeasing days of New York, along with the sound of pitter-pattering thudding against the window.

I reach the window and pull the curtains apart only to let out an aggravated groan.

A thick curtain of rain showered over the city of New York, sprinkling on top of the buildings, spraying over any trees, and turning the sidewalks below into a watery slide. But that wasn't the worst part. The rain was accompanied by a wave of forceful wind - blowing through the trees, breaking apart any branches, tearing apart any newsstands, and knocking someone's hat off their heads. I could see people fighting against the storm, trying to hold onto their umbrellas and coats. It was bad enough I am suffering a major hangover but this is just ridiculous.

I turn away from the window and walked out of the bedroom. I didn't even make it two steps in and I had to stop abruptly because I was stunned at the sudden dazzling view of the living room. It looked like one of those designed rooms from those rich people catalogues; the whole west and north side of the room was a window with the curtains folded upward, letting the rising morning to spill in, another flatscreen with an amazing television set, marble wood dining area with a mini chandelier, white furniture, and a furry carpet in the center of it all. Turn by the corner, past the large plant beside me, was a clean kitchen with steel surfaces.

And no sign of another person in this place. Where am I?

I walk inside the kitchen and open the refrigerator. Empty. So this person wasn't here to stay. I close the fridge and lean against the counter, crossing my arms, as I tried to rattle my brain awake, fighting through the throbs of the hangover. Fractures of the night before flooded my mind - my old high school friends - dancing - endless rounds of alcohol - and...and...I let out a gasp. The phone call. I remember drunk calling Lucas. And then...oh...the vomiting and Austin - I shuddered. I don't even want to think about the things he tried to do to me. I don't remember what happened after that. Everything was blank. I can't even pinpoint how I got here in this exclusive room.

Suddenly, the sound of the front door opening and closing brought me out of my thoughts, and I turn to the sound of heavy footsteps. It took a lot of willpower for me to not gasp at who I see enter the room. My heart leapt into my throat and was suffocating me. I couldn't find my voice. I couldn't believe it was him out of all people. Why? Why Lucas Fucking Friar? Two billion men walk the Earth and I have the worst luck ever to be with the one who irritates me the most.

Holy fuck. Was he working out?

He strolls in the room he proudly owns in a blue shirt that was now drenched and a pair of black Nike sweatpants that hung low on his hips, holding a takeout bag. His hair, now a dark brown, was glistening and the drops were dripping down on the side of his face, sliding along the line of his strong jaw. His shirt was clinging onto him like a second layer of skin, showing the obvious outlines of his bulging muscles, and the tendons of his arms were visible. He was also breathing heavily.

Yup. Definitely working out.

Lucas runs his hand through his sweaty hair and shook his head a little bit before he finally noticed me standing here. I pursed my lips and traced my nails over my arms. All he did was look at me and I am acting like some sort of high school freshmen.

"Good morning, Maya," he said casually. Oh. Are we back to first name basis now?

"Morning," I mumbled.

"How are you feeling?" he asked as he headed over to the small dining table and placed the bag on it.

"I've been worse."

"Have you taken the medication I left you?"

"No."

He turned to me with skeptical eyes. "How come?"

"Let me think," I said sarcastically. "I wake up in someone else's room, not knowing how I got here or who I came here with, and the first thing I should do is take pills. Doesn't sound so smart if you ask me."

Lucas smirked. "Well, neither is torturing yourself with a dreadful hangover."

I tried to not wince as another painful throb hits against my temple but Lucas seem to notice this and immediately went to the bedroom to bring out the glass of orange juice and Advil he left for me. He placed them in my hands without a thought, his eyes staring intently into my own, and a stern frown painted on his marble lips.

"Take them," he said before he turned to me and went back to the dining table.

I wanted to throw the tablets against his head but then another painful thud against my temple made me think otherwise and I quickly downed them with the juice. I lick my lips and set the empty glass down as I watch Lucas take out containers from the bag to set them on the dining table, his back turned towards me.

"I apologize for the state that you're in," he said suddenly, never looking back at me. "I sent Joey to get you some new clothes hours ago but the rain had caused traffic. He'll be here shortly."

My brows furrowed. "Why did you do that?" I questioned.

Lucas stopped setting up the table and looked back at me incredulously. "Have you not noticed the way you've been dressed? I'm pretty sure you didn't go to the club dressed like that."

Confused, I glance down at myself only to let out a mortified gasp. I was dressed in a baggy shirt. And only a baggy shirt. No jeans, no shoes. Luckily I was wearing my bra and panties. But it was the fact that he was seeing me this way that has me flabbergasted. I look up at him through my lashes and my face boils when I see the amusement in his eyes.

"Fuck you," I growled.

"It isn't my fault you didn't look at yourself in the mirror when you woke up, Maya," he answered nonchanlantly, turning back to the containers and started pouring the food onto the silver plates. "But don't worry - Joey isn't too far away with the clothes."

"You brought me here," I stated. As if that isn't obvious. Of course, he brought me here. If not then I would have probably be in some dark alley or worse at another stranger's house.

"That I did," he confirmed. "It was a bit of a struggle to do it. After you passed out, I had to carry you out of the club without bumping into any other drunk and things were beginning to get handsy at that point."

"What about Riley?"

"I can assure you that Miss Matthews is fine. My sister stayed with her throughout the entire night and is most likely still with her back at the apartment."

"I threw up?"

"Unfortunately. That's why I sent Joey to get you a new set of clothes. Yours was covered in vomit."

I cringed. How gross. Me and my stupidity.

"You put me to bed."

"Yes."

"Then...did you undress me?"

"Yes."

I bit my lip and looked away from him as I took deep, slow breaths, trying to remain calm at all of this. I kept thinking about Riley being safe at home so I wouldn't let my mind wander over the fact that this man, Lucas Friar, had seen me partially naked and in my plain undergarments. I didn't want that to consume me because I don't want to have a meltdown from the thought of his hands touching me or his eyes staring at me in the nude or that the both of us had -

"We didn't have sex," said Lucas, bringing me out of my haunting mind, and I blinked up at him. His face was impassive. "You were unconscious, Maya. I hate to break it to you but I don't find necrophilia appealing. I like my women responsive in a certain way. And even if you were, I wouldn't have done anything to you - you were intoxicated. I wouldn't have taken advantage of you like that."

I was stunned and actually surprised. I didn't think he would say all of that stuff to me, let alone know what I was thinking. Maybe I wasn't the very first girl in his life who got drunk and he nurse back to health.

"Oh...thanks, I guess," I murmured.

His lips curl upward in a crooked grin. "Although, I must admit, it was an entertaining night. I don't think I would forget it even if I tried."

Is this bastard laughing at me? I glared up at him, not wanting to make my embarrassment obvious, and feeling insulted at the same time. Me being drunk and almost raped by an old classmate is not the least bit amusing. And he is an asshole for making a joke out of it. I don't care how kind he was to bring me here and take care of me.

"I didn't ask for you to come and get me like some damned western hero, Hop-A-Long," I sneered. "Just because you used your secret Inspector Gadget crap to track me down like some sort of stalker, doesn't mean I have to take your crap about me being drunk, thank you very much."

He looked taken aback from my outburst and, if I admit it, a little hurt by it but I just stood there with my hands on my hips and my face hard. For a second, his eyes grew soft and the face of his face was visible in vulnerability that I nearly broke down until he blinked and all gentle faces disappeared as he bristled. Now it was my turned to be shocked. Wasn't he just sad a few seconds ago?

Lucas marches up to me until he was directly in front of me, towering over my small frame, glowering down at me with those fiery green eyes, and it took a lot of willpower in me to not step back from him. I was a little freaked out by him now; one minute he looked like a pained puppy and the next he is this man made out of roaring fire. I wasn't sure what was going through his mind right now and I'm not sure I want to even find out.

"Firstly, it doesn't take a genius to know the way on how to track down your damned cellphone - secondly, I was trying to have a civil conversation with you so you don't need to bite my head off - lastly, you did call and it's a good thing you did or otherwise you wouldn't be here right now, safe from any moron in that club who would have taken advantage of you without a second thought. You probably would have ended up in your friend's bed if it weren't for me. I suggest you be a bit more appreciative when people go out of their way to help you, Maya," he added acidly.

I couldn't find my voice again. I was too in awe at the harsh tone of his voice. His eyes were blazing red through the green, his jaw was clenched tightly, and he was breathing heavily, almost like he was trying to calm himself after his lecture. I could actually feel myself trembling under his gaze but I wasn't sure if it was out of fear. It wasn't the kind where I am paralyzed and mind blank. There was an aching sensation in the pit of my stomach - my heart felt like it was about to burst at any moment - and I was struggling to not breathe deeply as if I was out of breath - what was happening to me?

Lucas stares at me for another minute, his eyes roaming over my face until they landed on my lips, and I subconsciously bit them, a terrible habit of mine for when I am confused or nervous. I wasn't sure which one I am at the moment. His nostrils flared as he inhaled sharply, his eyes wildly wide, and he quickly turned away from me, his hands now two shaking fists, as he walked back to the dining table. I blinked. What the fuck?

"You must be famished," he said. "I'm assuming you didn't have a big meal last night and that's why you fell ill. You don't look like you eat enough."

I pressed my lips together. "Are you gonna keep on scolding me as if you were my dad? I already have two of those. I don't need another one."

"Is that how it sounds like to you?" He sounded oddly intrigued.

"Definitely."

"Consider yourself lucky that I'm only scolding you, Maya," he replied gruffly. He then comes back to me with a steaming plate of breakfast, the aroma making my mouth watery and stomach rumble, and he hands it to me. "Eat," he commands. "I'm going to take a shower."

"What do you mean, I'm lucky?" I inquired before he could walk away. He looked at me expectantly. "Would you have done anything else besides scolding me?"

Why am I asking him this? It doesn't matter what he would have done. He doesn't have any right to talk to me like I'm some sort of child to begin with.

A small smile breaks through Lucas's stone face as he cocked his head to the side, stunning me into dumbfounded silence, and he brings up his hand to my face, letting his long fingers softly caress my cheek with feathery brushes. It was light and simple but it was enough to have my heart going insane as I kept my gaze steady with his. My medulla oblongata wasn't functioning correctly to let my brain breathe and I was beginning to feel lightheaded as he trailed his hand down to the side of my neck, feeling his fingers glide over my rapidly thumping pulse.

His smile grew. "Eat - I bought a whole breakfast menu for you because I didn't know what you prefer. Don't let the food go to waste and save some for me."

He turned away from me, walked towards to where the bedroom is, and left me alone in my rambling thoughts.

I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding as soon as I heard the bathroom door close and I place the plate on the counter behind me in fear I might drop it because of my shaking fingers then I leaned against the counter so I would tumble because of my buckling knees. Holy shit. So many things are happening to me right now; my cheek and neck were tingling from where he touched them, my ribs were barely able to keep my beating heart caged in, my balance was gone, and I forgot how to breathe.

I close my eyes and inhale deeply, trying to clear my mind. I am insanely impressed by all of this. Lucas Friar really had a point when he said he saved me from Austin's intentions. He is amazing for doing something that most people won't do but he was so fucking annoying at the same time. He's so complex. One minute he is inviting me to a coffee date to get to know me better, the next he is distant from me, then he sends me a original painting that is worth more than my life, and later he tracks me down like he was my personal stalker.

I don't understand him. What's his game? It doesn't seem like sex is on his mind because he would have done that when I was drunk. Then what could it be? What does he want from me? He definitely isn't looking for a relationship like Riley seems to think so yet he doesn't look like he is trying to cut all ties with me either. What does he want?

I grit my teeth. This is so annoying. It's hurting my head. He had his chances last night to take what most guys want from me but he didn't. He had a whole night to do that but he didn't. Does that mean he cares about? No, ridiculous. He barely knows me. But he did care enough to come after me. Still, it could have been anything to make him do what he did. Possible guilt. A conscience.

"Maya?"

I was snapped back into reality at the sound of his deep, husky voice calling out to me and I peered over my shoulder to see him emerging from the bedroom, moist skin from the shower, and wearing a pair of white sweatpants. Just sweatpants. I gulped and quickly turned away from him, staring ahead at the kitchen cabinets as if they were the most interesting thing in the world. Good God. He is ripped. His torso was wide and looked smooth, his lower half was sculpted into six packs, and his pants hung low enough for me to see the V-section that was lead down by a neatly trimmed trail of hair. Oh God - I could feel that unbearable ache in my stomach again.

"You still haven't eaten?" he sighed in exasperation and I could sense him approaching me. "You need to eat, Maya."

"I'm taking a shower," I answered quickly before I grabbed a piece of toast from the plate and sprinted past him then towards the bathroom in the bedroom without giving him a chance to respond. Although, I could have sworn I heard him chuckle under his breath.

Inside the bathroom, the room was still steamy and hot, the glass of the shower door and the mirror were fogged up. I strip myself of the shirt and my undergarments before I hop inside the shower then turned the knob, anxious to wash out any remains of Lucas' touches marked over any part of my body he might had brushed over from the previous night. The moment the water started pelting down on my, I sighed in relief, as the heat began to thaw out my cold skin and spilled warmth into my tense muscles. I was feeling clean again. I didn't feel like some disgusting, wretched whore touched by some random man.

I lean against the wall and let my mind flow as the water continued to rain down on my face, my neck, my whole body. I probably shouldn't have done that. My thoughts immediately went back to Lucas and his words; I like my women responsive in a certain way. What kind of way did he like his women? The kind who is willing to do all kinds on the bed? Or the easy kind to get to bed? If so, that means he isn't celibate. But if he isn't then why hasn't he made a move on me like Austin or Josh did? It doesn't explain a lot. He had me in his bed but he didn't try to kiss me or touch me. At least, that's what he claimed.

I touch my lips, tracing my fingertips over the chapped skin. No. He would not want to kiss this. I shrug it off as I stepped beneath the running current, dipping my head forward as if it would wash off my wandering thoughts of him and I kept my eyes at the water falling into the drain. I could see a bit of brown mixed in the water. Geez, I must have been a complete mess last night. I reach over for the AXE body wash and when I pop it open, I was consumed by the heady scent, feeling my body shiver at the scent. This is why he smells so good every time. It smells delicious.

I take a small amount and started to rub it over myself. I close myself while I focus on the sensation of the water hitting my skin and intoxicate myself with the arousing scent of what makes Lucas Friar. I feel like he was here with me - fantasizing him cleansing my body from any dirt or grime, rubbing his long fingers deeply into the skin of my breasts, my stomach, over my thighs, and in between - oh God. My heartbeat doubled. That feels so good.

I was about to lose myself when I knock on the door had startled me back into reality.

"Joey came with your clothes, Maya," Lucas' voice boomed through the closed door. "I laid them out for you on the bed."

"Okay," I stuttered out, not really understanding how I was able to speak as I was in absolute disbelief at the fact that I had fallen into an erotic dream. One with Lucas Friar. How the fuck did that happen?

I stumble out of the shower and reach for one of the towels on the rack. I hastily towel my hair until it was semi-dry then run it over my body, ignoring the reminder of what I dreamt of in the shower, before I wrapped the towel around my overly sensitive skin, and stopped for a minute to take a deep breath. I know it was my nerves making me unusually clumsy and acting erratic. I blame it on the damned body wash.

I finally leave the bathroom, cautiously looking around to make sure he wasn't anywhere in sight, and once I was sure the bedroom was empty, I head over to the bed. There, laid out perfectly on the covers, was a black striped long-sleeved shirt with a black skater skirt and a pair of ankle boots. There are also lingerie next to them. They weren't just simple lingerie - they have a Victoria's Secret tag and...this is the new collection that just came out not too long ago. How did he get these? They are expensive.

I scowled. I hate this. I don't want expensive crap from popular boutiques or made by famous designers. They are ridiculously high priced for no reason and they could be found sold in the thrift stores I used to get my clothes from, like Demolition. I'd rather wear the same clothes I went out in yesterday. But unfortunately, they were covered in dirt and vomit. I sighed in irritation. Way to go, Hunter.

I quickly dressed up. I'm impressed to find that the outfit fits perfectly and the shoes were in the right size. I run the towel through my hair once more before I shook my head to air-dry and then I went to get my purse on the nightstand to get my phone. I saw that I have three new messages from Josh. They had transitioned from worrisome to what I think is jealousy.

Josh (8:12 AM): Maya, where are you? We're all worried about you. Please tell me you're ok.

Josh (8:33 AM): Riley won't answer her phone either. Are you two back home? I'm heading over there if I don't hear from either of you in an hour. Please call me when you get this.

Josh (9:02 AM): Just talked to Riley. Told me you're with a friend. Nice to know you're ok. Have a good morning.

I groaned. Riley what did you tell him?

It's too early for drama. I'll call him later and explain everything. I shove the phone in my purse and enter the living room area after I took another deep breath.

I didn't have to look for Lucas that long; he was sitting at the dining table, typing away rapidly on his highly advanced Apple laptop, with a newspaper splayed out in front of him and a breakfast meal set up in front of him. I stare at him oddly. Who reads the newspaper nowadays? I glance around me. There was no sign of Joey anywhere - I guess Lucas sent him home. I'd do the same thing if I ever made my bodyguard buy lingerie for a woman he doesn't know. Save the man from any more embarrassment.

I guess Lucas heard my heels as I walked because he peered over his laptop and he formed a polite smile. I tried to not be distracted at the fact he was still shirtless or how perfectly aligned and white his teeth are.

"You must be hungry," he said, gesturing a hand at the many food options laid out before him. I quickly make my way to the chair opposite of him and looked at the dishes, feeling my stomach rumble in delight at the sight of them. I was hungry.

"You said you ordered the whole menu?" I asked.

"I didn't know what you like in the mornings," he answered easily, taking a sip of his coffee. "I hope I got some of your favorites."

I nodded silently. I didn't know what to say. I never had a guy buy me food - let alone a whole menu. I always depended on the Matthews to feed me regularly. I opted for waffles, scrambled eggs, and bacon. They were so delicious that I couldn't stop myself from letting out an appreciative moan and continued to shovel the food in my mouth. I lied - I was starving. I didn't care if I looked like a pig in front of a millionaire or if said millionaire was watching me in amusement as he enjoyed his omelet.

"Would you like some coffee?" he offered as he pushed a cup to my direction.

I quickly grab the warm cup and took a couple of tentative sips to drown down the lump in my throat. I almost choked on it when familiar flavors touched my tongue - Vanilla Chai Latte, double on the vanilla. He remembered how I liked my coffee. I wasn't sure if I should feel weird about that or grateful for that.

"Thanks," I muttured. "When I get home, I'll send the clothes back to you."

Lucas narrowed his eyes at me, looking highly offended. I don't see why he should be. I continued, ignoring his strong gaze, and moved my eggs around the plate.

"You already paid a lot of money for the painting you sent me - which, I'm also sending back as well because it's too expensive and too much," I said. "I don't want any of it so I'm giving them back. You shouldn't have given them to me in the first place."

"It's not something I can't afford," he retorted. "I didn't think receiving gifts could be such a hassle to you."

"It is when it costs billions of dollars and the clothes are designer," I shot back.

"It's not problem to me, Maya, as it shouldn't be a problem to your receiving them," he said with a shrug, a wicked grin etched onto his gorgeous face and his eyes twinkling in something indescribable. My hands ball up into a fist. I really want to slap that smug grin off of his face.

"Why did you buy me the painting, Lucas?" I demanded, my voice clear and fierce. He seem to notice the serious tone and put his cutlery down with a sign before he settled his green eyes on me. They looked difficult to read because there was this shield hiding away what he could be feeling, what he could be thinking. It left me in a daze.

"I felt I owe you an apology that day at the coffee shop," he explained coolly. "I felt I stepped over some boundaries I shouldn't have and disrespected you with some of the things I said. Then you saved me from being run over by that cyclist," he paused then shrugged. "I also felt you deserved a better explanation from me with the way I behave towards you. I shouldn't even try to be near you, Maya. The kind of man I was that day is not the man you think I am - it's my facade - romance is not my forte."

"You're not doing a very good job at staying away," I said without thinking.

He closed his eyes in defeat. "I know. But you're not making it easy for me either," he added. "You're just so...reckless -"

I bristled. That son of a -

" - and put together at the same time," he continued. "I don't know what to do with you."

Suddenly, my appetite disappears. He sounded tortured with his own thoughts, like he was being tugged in different directions. It was as if the thought of staying away from me was delightful and hurtful to him. He looks like he was fighting an inner battle with himself when it comes to me. I never seen him look so...indecisive on what he wants. He always looked so confident on his choices.

I gulped. "Well, I'm not exactly looking for romance either," I said after a moment passed; he peered up at me with those daring green eyes. "I'm not looking for a relationship and...we can call it even on saving each other. We don't really owe each other anything. But I guess...maybe we could be...friends?" That sounded more like a question rather than a suggestion. "You say I shouldn't be near me but you can't stay away so maybe being friends is the best thing to be. We can get to know each other better. We can stay in contact but we don't have to around each other."

"You mean like distant friends?"

I nodded. "Yeah. That."

Lucas frowned. "I'm not sure I can be that either."

Rolling my eyes, I scoffed. "Then you need to make up your mind, Huckleberry. Being friends is all I'm offering. Anything else is off the table."

"I wish I could explain to you why. Beyond friendship is something I don't do but just friends isn't enough for me either."

"Enlighten me then."

We stayed there in silence, staring at each other - me in annoyance and him in conflict - neither of us touching our food and our coffee growing cold.

"Perhaps it's best we talk about this later," he said. "I have an important meeting to attend in an hour."

"And I have work. Work!" I jumped once realization struck me. "Oh shit! Work! I have work at noon!"

"You have plenty of time to get to work, Maya," Lucas reassured. "I, however, need to get ready for that meeting. So let's finish eating and I'll take you home. Even though, Miss Matthews knows you're with me, I don't want to dwell too much time with you and have her worry."

"Don't think this conversation is over, Sundance," I added. "You gotta make up your mind.'

"Miss Hunter, I wouldn't dare leave it the way it is," he said with a light smile. "If this conversation is so important to you, how about we continue this conversation later tonight at my place?" He had his elbows on the table and his chin resting on his long fingers, his eyes appraising me with a intrigued gaze. "What time are you off of your shift?"

I raised a brow. "At nine. Why would I want to go to your place?"

"I figure you would want to talk about this in private and my home is the most secluded place I could think of," he said. "If you're not so comfortable about that then perhaps we can talk about this at Topanga's?"

I pressed my lips together in a thin line as I considered his words. He wasn't wrong that I would want to talk about this in a quiet place but I wouldn't want to have this conversation at Topanga's - the place is always full of teenagers who talk too loudly even at the most silent corner and old geezer who only come to stare at my breasts or to pull a move on me. We would never be able to talk without some of them eavesdropping on us. I don't want them to gossip about me speaking to one of the most wealthiest in New York and to send that to the tabloids. I don't want to be seen as some of his call girls.

"Fine," I mumbled. "We'll go to your place."

"Excellent," he smiled. He then rises up from his chair, folding his newspaper and laptop. "I'm going to go get dressed. When you're done eating, I'll take you home."

I nodded. That is the best deal I've heard all day; in my secluded home, surrounded by my art supplies, with Riley. I start to stuff more of the food in my mouth, feeling my cheeks puff out the more I shove in. Lucas looked at me with an amused smirk and interested eyes as he watched me devour my meal.

"Are you that eager to be away from me?" he questioned. His tone sounded odd. A little shaky and somewhat cracked.

"Eager to get back to Riley," I retorted. "Poor girl must be lonely and worried about me."

"I can assure you she is fine with my sister," he said. "So take it easy; I wouldn't want you to choke while I'm showering."

I glare at him even though he doesn't acknowledge that I am as he pulled out his cellphone from his back pocket and dials in a number. I was a bit distracted by the tendons of his arms, noticing the muscles were bulging along with his small movements. I stayed in a daze for a view minutes before I focused on observing his well-toned physique more thoroughly while remembering a lesson from Sex Ed about the human body and I distinctly recalled the types of forms there are; Lucas seems to have the mesomorph type. His abs weren't tightly or hard rock but their noticeable and inviting. His chest was wide and tempting.

But what really caught my eye were the layers of tattoos that covered his entire right arm all the way down to his right wrist. There were so many pictures etched into his skin; it started with a cross with the initials PJF along with the years 1943 - 2012 then it continues down with the many drawings that I think are suppose to represent him but I couldn't really make out what they are. I could see there are some Chinese symbols and names of people I never heard of. The rest was a mystery to me. The one thing that I can really make out is the quotes written on the left side of his chest in a cursive so elegant.

Facing life runs harder than any bull.

Face your fears.

You ride them or they ride you.

How curious and inspirational. I wonder where he got that from. Did he get that from a book or a movie I never heard of? Yeah right. I don't read books. Never had the patience for them. But I really wanted to know where he got that quote from.

"Joey, get the car around in fifteen minutes," he said, his husky voice breaking me out of my reverie. "Make sure to save the route for Greenwich Village to Upper East at eighteen-hundred. Also, head home as soon as we reached the destination, you are relieved for the night but makes sure to be at your post by eight."

He hangs up his phone and places it on the table before he leaves the room without another word, leaving me in a messy mass of confusion. I did not understand a fucking thing of what all of that was about. All I knew he spoke of where I live and where he lived and that he was talking to his bodyguard. Everything else was absolutely foreign to me. It kind of irritated me that he didn't tell me what it was about.

I rolled my eyes and went back to my food. Just because Lucas is being so secretive doesn't mean I have to go hungry for him. I inhaled the whole plate like a vacuum, stuffing them against my cheeks, and downing them with big gulps of water before I repeated. In a few minutes, I was slouched into into the chair, letting out a grateful sigh, as I rubbed my tummy with a lazy smile. That hit the spot. I never knew how hungry I really was. Now I feel bloated.

I figure he wouldn't be out of the shower anytime soon so I left the table and headed back into the room, hearing the sound of the rushing water inside the bathroom. I noticed that the door was slightly ajar, letting out the steam of the hot water. The very mischievous, risk-taking part of me was encouraging me to take a peek of Lucas Friar's form in all his glory but the reasonable, sunshine-skipping part of me - the Riley part inside of me that I like to call Dorothy - was persuading me to not do it because I wouldn't know how he would react to it if he caught me. As much as I hate to admit it to myself, that part of me was right. Just thinking back at how he responded to me a few minutes ago was somewhat terrifying especially when he looked like he was going to swing a right hook at me.

Clearing my throat, I chose to hunt for a hair dryer through the small tables, feeling my slightly dap hair seeping through the new outfit. I finally find it in one of them, plug it in the nearest outlet, and flip my hair over my face while bending forward as I turned it on to the highest setting, running the heat from the root to the tip of my hair. I would shake it out and comb my fingers through it to fluff it out. It only took me a few minutes until I felt my hair was dry, turned off the hair dryer, and flipped my hair back. I place the hair dryer on the table so I could go and stuff my other clothes in the shopping bag that Joey left behind.

"Excuse me."

Startled, I whirled around to find myself colliding with what feels like a brick wall and a hand held onto my arm to keep me steady. I look up to find Lucas staring down at me with an amused smirk while he was patiently listening to someone he has on call on his iPhone. He didn't let me go and I didn't make any move to step away from him. I was too stun at the close proximity between us, the heat of his body molding into mine, the planes of his chest pressed against mine, and his heavenly AXE scent intoxicating my senses. It doesn't help that he has these eyes glazed over with an emotion I couldn't figure out watching me, traveling down to my lips when I bit them in apprehension, and his jaw clenched tightly.

"How much are they asking for?...Unacceptable. That would be breaching our deal with Israel and throw off procedures with South Korea...And the cost of it all?...Do you have them sent to Puerto Rico? Excellent. With those, we will be able to have some sort of agreement with Costa Rica...We cannot give them what they are demanded unless we want them to start a small war with Israel's allies - they get most of their resources from them...Next time they call, send them directly to Alvin. This is in his department...Call me back afterwards."

He hangs up despite hearing the other person calling for his attention. He shoves his phone in his back pocket and turned his attention to me. He still hasn't let go of my arm. In fact, he moved both of his arms to my waist and pulled me closer, caging my arms between us.

A rise of panic ran through me. I didn't like this. I was too close to him. I could feel almost every inch of him from his harden planes to the feeling of his - oh God. He's wearing loose sweatpants and I could feel every part of him. Every. Single. Part. Of. Him. It wasn't awaken - at least, I don't think so - and it was pressed against my abdomen, causing a weird sensation to rumble alive within the pit of my stomach. I wasn't sure what it was but the indescribable feeling was actually scaring me and knowing it was coming from him was making it worse.

Quickly, I wedged my hands between us and pushed myself away from him. He looked confused and somewhat irked by this. I run my hand through my hair and cleared my throat.

"We gotta go," I murmured. "Riley is probably waiting for me."

His lips were pressed together in a hard line but he nodded nonetheless. He reaches for his car keys on the small table and takes the bag where all of my clothes are shoved in before he walks out of the room without another word. I narrowed my eyes after him. This seems to be a thing with him now. I follow him shortly, urging to be home already, and I almost tripped over my own feet when I halted in the middle of the living room.

Lucas was standing by the door, holding it open for him, with an elegant smile.

"After you, Miss Hunter," he said kindly.

I drank in the sight of him. Of this complex Southern man. As confusing as he is being with me - being sweet then a bit controlling - I have to admit that I am impressed that he decided to stay with me after witnessing me in my drunken state and throwing up. To most guys, that would be a turn off yet he doesn't seem the least bit disgusted by me. As I head out of the door, I could feel him watching after me, like he was observing me, and I could feel goosebumps rise up on my arms under his steady gaze.

We didn't speak a word as we walked down the corridor towards the elevator and not even a breath was heard when he pressed the button. While we were waiting, I'd glance around the hallway, taking in the detailed designs of the walls, the ceiling, and the doors of other rooms. Anything that would distract me from looking in his direction. Although, I failed miserably - I had peeked at him through my lashes and I thought my face erupted when I saw that he was also glancing down at me from the corner of his eye, his lips twitching. I bit my own and crossed my arms, not liking how my heart was racing at this. I wasn't sure if it was because it was out of adrenaline or anxiety.

The elevator arrived and we step inside. I lean against the wall by the corner as he pressed the button for the lobby and the doors slide closed.

Suddenly, the atmosphere shifted drastically, almost like I've been trapped in an airtight container, and my weight felt heavy on my feet, making me shift slightly to the side to keep my balance upright despite me leaning against the wall. I'd lick my lips and bite them as my eyes would glance up at the number of floors we passed by already. So far we are passing by the thirty-sixth floor. Why are elevators so damn slow?

I glance beside me. Lucas looked calm and cool, like he is analyzing inside his mind. I feel pathetic, acting all jittery and very affected by being in closed doors next to him. I took a deep breath through my nose, closing my eyes momentarily, trying to relax my jumbled thoughts and keep my head cool.

I couldn't let Lucas affect me like this.

But just as that thought ran through, Lucas suddenly shifted his weight. I look over at him out of curiosity. He glanced down at me for a brief moment then stared ahead to the elevator doors as he let out a quick breath. I stare at him in disbelief. Is he affected as well?

"What is it with elevators?" he muttered. I think it was something he meant to keep to himself but I heard it either way.

I snorted out a small laugh, shaking my head. He smiled charmingly and chuckled. The tension in the elevator broke and I felt there was enough room for me to breathe.

Lucas' bodyguard, Joey, was already waiting for us when we stepped outside of the hotel. My breath hitched at the sight of the pure white car; it was the new model of the BMW X series and the thing was monstrous. The thing is a beast. It was so weird seeing it in person after watching so many commercials about it and I hated it because it reminded me how much of a short person I really am.

"Mr. Friar," greeted Joey. He looks at me and gives me a quick nod. "Miss Hunter."

I gave him a vague smile. What else am I supposed to do? I don't know the guy.

"Mr. Ricciardella," said Lucas as he took the keys from Joey and strides around the car to the driver's side.

Joey opens the door to the passenger's side for me and I climb in. The beast of a car was way more bigger than I anticipated so I had to put a little hop in my step to be able to get in the seat. Once Joey was certain I was seated right, he closes the door the same time Lucas gets in the car and shoves the key in the ignition, starting up the monster engine. I could see the windows were tinted dark by the way everything looked dull outside and the car smelled brand new as I discreetly inhaled the forest scent circulating around us.

Lucas glides out of the parking lot with ease and we were soon moving along with the flow of New York traffic, the thought pulling me in a calm state as I breathed in the sight of my home. People walking down the sidewalk to the subway stations, pedestrians crossing the street in confidence, others taking their dogs out for their daily walks, and shopkeepers sweeping or organizing their displays, skaters grinding on anything they dared to stunt on, and groups of teenagers clambering around.

At a redlight, Lucas turned on his stereo, switched on the Bluetooth, then went on his phone, scrolling through it for a minute before he placed it down. Soon, the car was filled with simple beat drum and a guitar being strung coolly as a man's gruff voice vocalized through the speakers. I stared at the stereo in shock, feeling shivers crawl up and down on my spine in absolute pleasure, whilst my ears are blessed by the music. Oh wow. This is one hell of a surprise.

"You listen to Arctic Monkeys?" I asked.

"Not a huge fan of theirs," he answered. "I only listen to like three of their songs and I'd have to be in the mood to listen to them."

"I'm impressed, Huckleberry," I said. "I never pegged you as the kind of guy to listen to good music. I was expecting some sort of country song where you can do-si-do to and wave your ten gallon hat."

"You don't think country music is good?"

I pretended to gag. "Definitely not. Riley tried to get me to listen to this one country song one time and I almost wringed her neck for playing something so terrible in my car. I don't see the purpose of country music existing. It sounds like some sorry sucker pining over someone who will never look back at them. It's stupid, really. No offense to you, Ranger Rick," I added.

"None taken," he said. "Clearly you haven't given country music a chance and are quick to judge. If you take your time and actually listen to the lyrics, you might get past everything you don't like about it."

"Not gonna happen," I snorted. "I'd rather rip my own ears off then listen to that trash again."

Lucas grinned, mysterious and alluring. Then it disappeared when the music was cut off by the sound of an incoming call. I could see the caller ID on the stereo screen reads McCarthy. Lucas scowls a bit as he pressed a button on his steering wheel.

"Friar." His tone was cool and unwelcoming.

"Mr. Friar, we heard back from the governor about the information you required," a raspy voice spills out of the speakers.

"Good. Tell him to have his people send it to Abigail. Is there anything else?"

"On it, sir, and no."

Lucas cuts off the call and the music is back on. I raised a brow at him. He's really cold and controlling with his employees. And he offered me to apply for an internship to his company? Over my dead body. I shudder at the thought of being under his ruthless control. I'd be kicked out on the first day for not taking in his crude behavior so well.

The music is once again gone for another phone call and I look at the screen to see Chai blinking back at me. His sister? I hope everything is alright with Riley. Anticipation builds up inside of me. Nothing better not have happened to Riley or this Chai is gonna end up meeting the end of Jonathan's bat. Lucas presses the button on his wheel again before he made a left turn at the light.

"Friar," he snapped.

"Good morning to you, my wonderful brother," Chai said sarcastically and I can picture her rolling her eyes at his tone. "You obviously didn't get laid last night since you're so stiff like a stick. More than usual too."

"Morning, Chai - you're on speaker and I'm not alone."

"Oh? Are you still with the blondie?"

Lucas rolled his eyes. "Yes, I am. And I would appreciate it that you don't refer to her with such nicknames. Her name is Maya."

"Hi Maya!" She completely ignored her brother. I guess it runs in the family.

"Hi...Chai," I replied back awkwardly. I don't do so well at meeting new people.

"Heard a lot about you."

"I highly doubt they were good things."

Chai laughed. "I learned some interesting stories about you, Maya. But she mostly praised about you."

I smiled. Oh, Honey. I can only imagine what sorts of crap Riley filled Chai's ears with.

"And how's Riley?" I asked.

"She's doing fine. She actually had a mild hangover earlier but a quick shower and some tea and she was brand new. She's actually right here making us some breakfast."

"Hi Peaches!" Riley's cheerful voice rang from the background and my smile grew soft. It is always such a relief to hear her in the mornings.

"Hey Honey. Nice to hear you survived a hangover."

"It's so weird that I even had one because I didn't drink as much as you did."

I glance over at Lucas. He looked a bit put off and he was clutching the steering wheel too tightly that I could see that his knuckles were turning white under his grasp.

"Consider yourself lucky," I said. "Anyway, I'm on my way home right now and I ate so you don't have to worry about making me a plate."

"Already?"

"Yeah, I got work. I had picked up an extra shift for today. So I'll see you soon."

"Okay!"

"Chai," Lucas intruded. "Make sure you're ready by the time I drop off Maya. I'm picking you up and I have a meeting to attend shortly."

"Okay, prissy pants."

Lucas hangs up and the music takes over the speakers again. I look over at him, a bit annoyed. He was being borderline rude right now. I was somewhat in the middle of a conversation with my best friend and he isn't particularly keen on his sister. Being the oldest, I usually try whatever I could to be close to Jonathan as I can so to see him acting so distant and blunt with his sister was becoming a pet peeve to me.

"I can definitely tell that you're adopted now," I said. "Your sister sounds more fun than you."

"She tends to go over the edge sometimes," he retorted "If I don't act the way I do then she would have gone overboard."

"She sounds like she was being civil to me."

"She was tamed. Believe me, you don't know my sister."

Like I don't know you? I thought sarcastically, rolling my eyes. I peer out of the windows and noticed the familiarity of the area. We just passed Topanga's. We were getting close to my apartment now.

"I doubt she's any bad if you trusted her enough to take care of Riley for me," I countered.

"She can be a lunatic when she wants to be but she isn't an opportunist," he said. "She isn't a fan of drunken sex. Although, she does sound like she was smitten by your friend."

I stared at him. "What?"

Lucas smirked. "I guess I forgot to mention it to you. My sister is a lesbian."

My eyes widen in shock. I did not see that coming.

"Don't worry about her with Riley," he said. "She isn't the type to make the first move. She likes to save herself from the embarrassment. She'd rather let the girl give her solid hints that she is interested or to come up to her first."

"I'm not prejudiced or anything but Riley isn't a lesbian."

"Like I said - Chai isn't the type to make the first move."

We finally reached my apartment building and Lucas parallel-parked at the curve. I sighed in relief to see my beautiful Impala resting gracefully at her usual spot in front of the building, her gorgeous black paint job glimmering brightly under the sunlight. Bless you, Riley. I unbuckle my seatbelt and quickly send a text to Riley to let her know I was home. I was about to open the door when it swung open, revealing Lucas standing there, holding it open for me, with a gentle smile. I never noticed he had moved - I guess I was too engrossed at the sight of my car that I barely paid attention to him.

I was in a slight daze to see him standing there, looking inviting and provocative in his simple clothes. From his blue shirt that did not leave much to my imagination of what is underneath and the gray sweatpants - those damned sweatpants that I was pulled to against my own will and had me feel much more of him than I desired. I flushed at that brief memory of a rare moment in my life. My hands tingled at the sensation I remember feeling in my stomach from the pressure of him against me but I couldn't really find it in me to run my hands through his hair to cease the urge to touch him, any part of him, and I grew unbelievably frustrated.

"I guess that's something Chai and I have in common," I said as I climb out of the car. I thought I heard him let out an audible gasp but I shrugged it off and continued to walk up to the front entrance of the apartment building.

The moment I opened the door to my apartment, I was greeted by the wonderful aroma of Riley's special breakfast - waffles with maple syrup from the market nearby and sausage smothered in chedder cheese along with bacon strips. If I wasn't so full from the meal I was given earlier, I would have immediately stuffed myself with it.

Chai and Riley were sitting at the kitchen counter with two empty plates in front of them, giggling lightly to each other. Riley looked better than I did with her cute pajamas and short hair pinned up in a loose ponytail. Chai seemed like she slept well too and she was wearing the same clothes I remember her in from last night. Riley looked different - she seemed to glow. It wasn't unlike her but the brightness was at a new level. I couldn't explain.

"Honey, I'm home!" I sang.

"Peaches!" She leaps out of her chair to sprint up to me and trap me in a suffocating embrace, rocking us slightly to the sides. I laughed giddily at her reaction and returned the hug, if not, harder. "I missed you!"

"I missed you too," I said as we released each other.

"Good morning, Lucas," Riley greeted politely.

"Good morning, Miss Matthews," Lucas responded in a stiff, formal manner. I stared at him strangely. He almost looked like he was trying to impress her and I wasn't sure if I liked that or not.

"Quit being so formal and call her Riley," grumbled Chai. "She isn't the president or governor. Just talk to her like a normal person."

"Riley," Lucas gives her a nod with a nice smile then sends a glare over at Chair who raises her coffee mug in mock congratulation before she took a sip and made her way towards me.

"Hey Maya, nice to meet you sober," she said, her brown eyes twinkling in mirth, and I immediately take a liking towards her, shocking me entirely. Then again, she isn't exactly related to Lucas and she was nothing like him.

"Nice to meet you too, Chai," I grinned. I was aware that I was biting my lip. I wasn't flirting with her but she does give out a certain vibe that makes it feel good to be around her. "Thanks for taking care of Riley for me."

"Anytime," she said. "She's quite the catch so somebody had to make sure no dirtbag puts their grubby hands on her. She's was like a drunken kitten last night."

I glance over at Riley and I was taken aback to see her smiling sheepishly down at her feet, her face a pink inferno. I then raise a brow at her. What in the world is going on with her? I've never seen her act so meek over a compliment from a girl before. Of course, Riley is very eye catching with her chocolate brown hair, doe cocoa eyes, and flawless smile that seems to make a room brighter so she does tend to capture the attention of both genders but she would always politely shrug them off with a giggle.

"Yeah," I drawled slowly. "She tends to get a little cuddly when she's intoxicated."

"Yeah, she does," Chai smiles over at Riley, who's face was now a dark red. It makes me curious about what happened between them last night.

"I have a feeling you two are going to be the best of friends seeing that you're bonding over the expense of my embarrassment," Riley muttered.

"I'm not against it," chortled Chai; I really like this girl. I honestly expected some snooty rich girl wearing Gucci heels or holding a Prada bag with a chihuahua inside it but she was the polar opposite of everything I thought she was. She was surprisingly cool. I can't think of a better way to describe her. I could really see myself having a friendship with her. I owe her that much for taking care of Riley.

"We have to go, Chai," added Lucas in a curt tone.

Chai rolls her eyes. "Yes, father. Way to ruin the mood."

"You can flirt with Riley another time," Lucas said. "I'm on a tight schedule and I'm not going to get behind it over your hormones. Get your stuff."

Chai sneers at him for a minute then turns away with the scoff as she heads over to the couch to pick up her purse. I glare over at Lucas; I really don't like his attitude towards his sister. Chai stops by Riley's side and puts her hand on her arms. I watch them with interested eyes, taking in how Riley seems to melt slightly under Chai's touch and the nervous smile speaks her inner thoughts loudly towards me.

"You got my number, right?" Chai inquired.

Riley nodded. "It's saved. I'll send you a text to give you the details."

Chai smiled warmly. "Can't wait. See you later, sunshine."

"Bye, Chai."

I feel an unwanted pang of jealousy at the exchange between the two. Not even twenty-four hours and they are able to talk to each other so normally as if they've known each other for years meanwhile I am over here feeling like I was talking to a statue of a Greek God. Beautiful but unresponsive. I cross my arms and glance up at Lucas to find him staring down at me intently. I narrow my eyes at him. Can he do anything besides looking at me? A simple goodbye is enough of a conversation to me.

Chai struts past us, blowing me a teasing kiss, before she pulled the door open and walks out, her hair swaying across her back long with her rhythmic steps. Lucas didn't move from his spot next to me, his gaze never wavering. I started to feel a bit self-conscious because I have this guy looking at me like I was the only person in the room while my best friend was witnessing this and I knew I was not going to hear the end of this as soon as I close the door.

"You should get going," I murmured. "Your meeting."

"RIght," he said. His voice sounded a bit strained. "Care to walk me out?"

I nodded in silence. Lucas turned and headed out of the open door as I followed him not too closely. I look over my shoulder to see Riley watching me with knowing eyes and an excited smile but it immediately fell from her face when I shook my head at her with a warning frown. I didn't want her to have any more content to ask me about later on so I stepped out in the corridor and closed the door behind me, even though I knew she is most likely trying to listen in on us.

"You get out of work at nine, right?" Lucas asked.

"Yeah."

"I'll pick you up then and we could continue our conversation."

I arched a brow. "You make it sound like it's some sort of meeting. Should I dress up fancy for this occasion?"

Lucas smiled. "Business or casual. Optional."

"Then you'll be seeing me dressed up in an old rag and looking like a hot mess, Lone Star."

Lucas rolled his eyes and stared down at me, his expression unreadable. "I find that highly impossible, Maya."

"And you would know because - mph!"

Before I knew what was happening, Lucas had rushed towards me and had swallowed my surprised gasp by enclosing his mouth on mine. He had pushed me against the door and both of my hands were caught in a strong grasp above my head by one of his hands while the other was tangled in my hair, tugging it lightly to tile my head upward. His lips were on mine, passionate, hungry, and powerful. I could hear him breathing heavily through his nose like he is trying to absorb me in. He then moved his leg between mine and had pressed himself against me, causing me to let out a gasp.

Oh fuck. He was hard. He was so fucking hard. He's so hard for me. He wants me.

Lucas took advantage of my gasp as an opening and his tongue invades my mouth, meeting mine in a slow, seductive dance that ignited a furious heat from the deep depths of my abdomen. He wasn't rushing with me - he was taking his time to mark every ounce of me as he could, painting me like he was the brush and I was the canvas. He brings his hand to the side of my neck, curling around it and my jaw, keeping me steady in place, as he pressed himself closer to me, letting me feel every ounce of him.

And just like that, I am suddenly helpless. I've lost control of every part of me that held common sense, protesting against my hidden desires for him, and I returned his kiss with equal vigor. For a moment, I forgot about everything - I didn't think about the fact that some of the neighbors were in the hallway as usual - I didn't think about Riley possibly hearing the light whimpers or breathless moans that were being forced out of me - I didn't think about the rules I set up for myself years ago when it came to men - I was too consumed in the rumbling lust I've fought long enough since I met him and released it all along with the sexual tension that would be electrifying among the air between us whenever our eyes would meet.

"So sweet," he growled between every brush and stroke. "Taste like vanilla."

Oh fucking hell, he can taste the vanilla latte I had. I've never been kissed like this before. It was like he was driven into insanity with my lips, needing to be touched by them at every waking moment. He was like a starved man, desperate to taste me. It made me wonder how long has he been wanting this? To kiss me? I certainly didn't know I wanted to kiss him until now. His lips taste delicious on mine. It was like tasting the forbidden flavors of nirvana. And then there's his erection twitching against my belly with every touch between our lips - Oh my God.

And suddenly, Lucas breaks away from with a stolen breath and all of his hold on me was gone. I was left slumped against the door, my arms dropping to my sides, breathing heavily and my face feeling like it was burning. My heart rate was going through the roof. My legs were shaking, my knees knocking into each other. There was a demanding ache formed between them, making me squeeze my thighs together. Lucas looked like he could barely keep himself restrained though he is fighting it, his hands trembling slightly, and his eyes glazed over with dark, desirable green. Damn it, why did he stop?

Then, in an impressive, dramatic turn, Lucas takes one deep breath and forms a crooked smile upon his swollen lips.

"I'll see you tonight after work...ma'am."

He ended his sentence with a certain twang that left my ears tingling in delight and he had tipped his head as if he was bidding farewell with a cowboy hat along with a smug smirk before he turned to walk down the corridor in obvious confidence.

"Oooooh…" I let out an annoyed, shuddering breath as I balled my hands up into a fist.

My blood boiled in my veins and I was sure my face was now red out of sheer frustration. How could he rile me up like that and then leave me hanging?

That bastard.

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