Forgotten Truth (The Forgotten Series Book 1) (12 page)

“It’s about time,” he grumbles. “Fuck. I’ve been standing here forever.”

I shake my head and grab the two salads and a pizza from him.

“What? Are you brain damaged? You were out there ten seconds.” I chuckle and walk towards the living room to turn the big screen on.

“Really mature, bro.”

Clayton follows and we sit to watch the game.

“So this new one.” He leans in. “Did her charm fade after you got laid?”

“Is that a real question, or do you want me to smack the shit out of you?”

“Whoa. What? Sensitive much?”

I don’t know why I’m surprised. He wins the male whore award. I know he thinks I’m just like him, and that’s fine, but it has never been about the score. It was about never actually finding anyone that I cared about.

“Cut the crap, Clayton. If you must know, she’s even more hypnotizing after this weekend. I’m taking her to meet my dad next week.”

“Well, fuck me, Nathan. That’s a one-eighty. There goes my partner in crime. So it’s serious, huh?”

“I didn’t say that. It’s just... She’s important to me and I want to see where it goes.” I tell him, which makes me feel like I’ve betrayed Bryer.

“And how does your dad factor into this?” Clayton asks.

“I want them to meet. Plus I’m considering discussing my dreams with him. Talk to him about when I was younger and see if he remembers me having these nightmares.”

“Hell, Nathan. So they’re still going on?”

“I’m not sure they ever went away.” I sigh.

“Well, what I saw was intense. I hope your dad can help. When was the last time you had one?”

“Over the weekend. Both nights. I really didn’t want to expose Bryer to them. Maybe they happen more than I realize. It’s time to start figuring out why.”

“Where’s the food?” Clayton says, and that’s what’s so cool about talking with this dude. Quick and it’s over.

“Sounds great, man. I’m starving.”

The week goes by and even though I’ve texted Bryer every day, our schedules just don’t line up. I remind her of our dinner date at my dad’s and she assures me we’re still on.

Camilla came in for a training session, but I was blunt, to the point of being rude. I told her Clayton would be training her now. I know Bryer would be upset if I continued training Camilla so I know it was the right decision for all involved.

***

“WHAT DID YOU
say your dad did?” Bryer stares at the gate, the tree lined entrance, the extensive landscape, and lengthy driveway.

“Finance. He does well.”

I know the setting is a lot to take in. She was curious about the Mercedes SUV I showed up in too, but sharing my financial status has to wait. It may cause additional anxiety.

“My father is a stoic man, but he was crazy about my mother.”

I notice the expression on Bryer’s face as we pull into the circular driveway by the fountain. Maybe I should have given her a heads up, because she looks edgy.

“Hey, babe.” I lean over and kiss her gently. “Are you okay? Nervous? It’s just a big house. My dad will love you.”

“Okay.” She smiles and takes a deep breath, but I understand her apprehension.

We approach the door and I ring the bell. Bryer looks at me and I can read her mind. She’s wondering why I don’t walk right in. It’s my family. But there’s a formal aspect to my relationship with my father, and I know my place.

The door swings open.

“Nathaniel, so good to see you.” Dad grabs me in a man hug. He pauses and looks over at Bryer.

“Dad, I’d like you to meet Bryer Reid. Bryer, my dad, Nathaniel James, Sr.”

He smiles and takes her hand in both of his. “Bryer, so nice to meet you. I’m looking forward to getting to know you. You’re the first girl Junior has brought home.”

Her eyebrows go up and she looks my way. I shrug.

“Sir, the pleasure is all mine.”

“Come in. Come in.”

Dad leads us through the threshold into the grand foyer. White marble floors glimmer and a huge vase of flowers on the entrance table fills the room with a sweet fragrance. I notice this does not escape Bryer.

“You have a beautiful home, Mr. James.” Bryer says, sounding more intimidated than I’d like her to.

“Thank you, my dear.”

We wander through the great room and I watch Bryer take it all in. The plush Oriental rug, the warm colors. The richness is blatant.

“Can I offer you both a drink?” Dad asks, with his back to us.

“Bryer, would you like some wine?” I say.

“That would be great.”

My father turns and gives her a sincere smile and raises one eyebrow at me.

“Just tonic for me, sir,” I say.

He nods and pours our drinks. “Let’s have a seat while Mary Ann prepares dinner.

“Bryer, you’re a beautiful young woman. What line of work are you in?”

Since this is innocent enough, I just smile and let Bryer spread her wings.

“I’m the marketing manager for a woman’s apparel company, but our merchandise varies. I’ve been there for over a year now and hope to move up within the company. I get to dabble in fashion, which is every girl’s dream.”

They both smile.

“Is that where you met my son?” He knows full well the answer is no.

“No, sir. We met at Nathan’s gym.”

“Oh, the gym. I see.”

Bryer sits close enough that our bodies touch. I like the fact she feels confident displaying open affection under these circumstances. She reaches for my hand and our fingers entangle.

It doesn’t go unnoticed by my father. Good. I want him to know she matters.

“Nathan tells me you’re in finance, Mr. James.” Bryer steams ahead and I applaud her boldness.

“Yes, my entire life. I’m sure Nathan’s mentioned I own Federal Financial.”

She turns to me. “Actually, he didn’t.” Bryer smiles.

“Well, it’s no secret that I’d have loved for him to follow in my footsteps, but his own passion ruled that out long ago. Nathan’s college experience prepared him to take over the company, but his hobby won out.”

Although that sounded like a backhanded compliment, I warm at his honest assessment of this situation. It’s taken a long time for him to change his opinion of my profession.

“My father has come to terms with my choice, but don’t get him wrong. There’s a CEO chair with my name on it, I’m sure,” I joke.

“I couldn’t have said it better, Junior. You’re more than welcome to join me anytime. We’re international now, son.”

Always selling me. “Thanks, Dad. I appreciate the standing offer.”

“Dinner will be served in ten minutes,” Mary Ann announces. She’s been Dad’s housekeeper and cook for many years, since my mother died and he moved here she has always been warm and friendly, and she softens the place when she’s here.

My father nods to her.

“I can personally recommend your son’s training abilities. He’s extremely knowledgeable and has a rare talent that makes you want to work hard.”

“Yes, it’s my job to give you the full benefit of my talents,” I tease, knowing the statement might embarrass her a bit. Then I squeeze her hand.

“So you’re one of Nathan’s clients too?” My father looks at me. Is that disapproval in his eyes?

“I’m lucky to be one of the select few. He has a waiting list,” Bryer brags.

“Our place is growing faster than we’d expected. Clayton is just as busy.” I’m defensive about the gym, as usual.

Mary Ann makes an appearance. “Dinner is served.”

“Shall we go to the dining room?” my father asks.

At the table, I’m seated next to Bryer. I pull her chair out and settle her in, while father sits at the head of the table.

Our salads are presented, and my father mentions his business acquaintance has only had positive things to say about the training of his daughter. “He praised your talents and professionalism, Nathan.”

Fuck, don’t say her name, Dad
. I feel a train wreck approaching.

“Camilla said it was a wonderful experience and plans to continue.”

Bryer tenses beside me when my dad says her name.

“Actually, she’s training with Clayton now, since my schedule is so tight.”

I reach for Bryer’s hand and she accepts it. When she squeezes back, I breathe a sigh of relief.

We get through the main dish, chatting about superficial subjects and Bryer makes up for my silence. I’ll let her know how much I appreciate it later. I decide bringing up the nightmares would be better suited for alone time with my father.

Coffee is served on the expansive patio with the stars and the moon shining brightly. I have always loved it out here.

“You have a beautiful garden, Mr. James,” Bryer says.

“This has always been Junior’s favorite place. It goes on for two more acres, well into the woods.”

“Junior,” she whispers.

My father looks at me with a grin. He wanted me to carry his name forward. And that always touched me.

The phone rings in the distance.

“Mr. James, you have a business call, it’s the security company, they’re sending a new body guard tomorrow.” Mary Ann announces.

“Thank you. Will you excuse me for a moment?”

“Why do you need body guards?”

“It’s the way it’s done now,” he replies, leaving me questioning if that’s the real story. This is typical of him.

“Hold on Dad, not everyone needs bodyguards unless they are in danger.”

“Nathaniel, anyone at my level is in danger.” He continues walking, evading my questions.

“Why, did something happen?”

“Nathan it’s best you keep your nose in ‘gym’ business, unless you have had a change of heart.” Ouch.

“Have it your way, Dad, just let me know if you’re in trouble.” He doesn’t answer.
What the hell was that?

I shake it off and relish the time alone with Bryer.

“You’re amazing. You have my father eating out of your hands.”

“I highly doubt that,” Bryer says. “But, I’m glad you approve.”

I take full advantage of the few moments alone and pull her into my arms. “You’re so beautiful, woman.”

“You’re quite irresistible yourself.”

“Am I?” My erection just became obvious.

“Nothing like getting right to the point.”

In walks my father, with a knowing smile on his face.

“Dad, we should head back,” I say. “It was a lovely dinner, and I’m pleased you got to meet Bryer.”

“It was my pleasure. You’re both welcome back any time.” He accompanies us as we walk through the house.

“Thank you, sir.” Bryer holds out her hand and he takes it. “I would love to visit again. You have an incredible home, and thank Mary Ann for us also. The meal was incredible.”

Driving back, we’re both relaxed.

“I enjoyed myself, Junior.” She smiles and leans towards the door playfully, like she may need to escape.

“You can’t possibly get away from me.” I laugh at her playfulness. Then I lean over and tickle her side until she squeals and giggles. What a wonderful sound. I plan on hearing that again. “I thought it went fine. More than fine. Thank you for being so…you.”

We pull in her apartment parking lot, and I can’t wait to kiss her. It’s been way too long.

“Bryer.” I put my arm over the back of her seat. She turns and leans over my console. “I can’t begin to tell you how much I want you. When I look at you, everything else disappears.”

“You’re kind of addicting yourself.” She gives me the sweetest smile that makes my pants uncomfortably tight. I’m hard as granite.

Her sexy lips tell me they want me. I’m almost there, and the anticipation is sexy as fuck. “Let’s try to make it to your door.”

She moans in response, and I love that she hates to break apart too. I give her my hand, and I can’t help but glance at her perfect body. A fierce desire flames inside of me.

I barely get her inside before she orders, “Take off your shirt.” I strip and she stares at my exposed chest. Her hands run up and down till she reaches my buckle. She quickly discards my belt with the speed of a whip.

“That was scary,” I tease. Suddenly my pants are around my ankles. Then off go my shoes and socks.

“This is going to be fast and hard,” she says.

What. The. Hell. I want to feel this woman and make her scream.

She reaches for her top and I take over. “Oh no you don’t. Allow me.”

She’s naked and wrapped around my waist when I walk her to her bedroom, kissing her hard as we go.

“Nathan, I crave every part of you,” she pants.

“I’ve been waiting all day for this.” I throw her on her bed.

“You animal.” She giggles.

“Be careful what you ask for, baby.”

I’m on top of her within seconds and I feel between her legs. “You’re so wet for me.” After the condom’s in place, I position myself at her opening. “You said fast and hard?” I slam into her and start grinding. “Do you feel me, Bryer?”

“God, yes,” she moans and I slam into her again.

Her screams of ecstasy are exactly what I need to heighten my intensity. I pump into her with fury and she gives it right back. With every stroke, her moans heighten my pleasure.

“Don’t stop,” she moans.

“Jesus, you’re like a vise.”

“Kegels,” she pants out.

I’ll remember to thank her later.

“Baby, I’ll follow you,” I urge on.

She arches her back and my name falls from her lips. That’s all I need to send me over. I push into her one more time and my cock explodes. Electricity soars through my body. The feeling is infused with a physical and emotional thrill. I have nothing to compare it too.

Does she feel it too? My body shudders on top of her while I support my weight.

“That was amazing, Nathan. You know my body like no one ever has.”

“I feel you too, baby.” I kiss her.

“COMING.” I SAY.

Gen opens my door and I only see happiness in her eyes. How does she do that? She’s always balanced, fun, and cheerful. I pull her into a big hug and she hugs me back tightly.

“Why thank you, best friend. So you want to sex-up your workout outfit? I have just the thing.” She laughs and hands me a bag and I shake my head.