Chapter 3

THREE

BEAU

“Bro, like seriously, what the fuck is wrong with you?”

My eyes continue staring at the ceiling, wondering if I stare long enough, will all this bullshit fade away. The longer I stare aimlessly, the tighter the walls of my chest cramp, making it challenging to take a simple breath.

“Emma and Heather are outside waiting to come in,” Joel, my roommate, reminds me. “Both of them looking down to fuck. Heather is wearing those boots, the ones which lace up past her knee near her pussy. Like seriously, is your dick broken or something?”

How much I wish it was. I wouldn’t be in this mess if it stopped wanting one person. Pining like some idiot and making myself miserable.

“I’m not in the mood,” I grumble.

“Don’t make me go out there and tell them to leave. I refuse to do it.”

My body moves before I can even think, jumping from the bed and straight to the door. As I open it, Emma and Heather greet me with a lick of their fake lips. I glance down, unable to break the habit, but the short little skirts make no difference whatsoever.

“Beau,” Heather purrs. “Let us in for playtime.”

“Sorry, not tonight.”

Their smiles disappear instantly, but then they force another smile, assuming it’s a mistake.

“You look tired,” Emma whispers, placing her hands on my chest. “We can do all the work.”

Her hand moves down to my dick. She clutches it hoping I’m turned on, but her disappointed expression is because I’m far from being hard.

My hand reaches down to hers, removing it with haste. “Like I said, not tonight.”

I turn back, not giving them more attention, and grab my keys and phone.

“Wait,” Joel calls out. “Where are you going?”

“Out,” is all I say.

The girls continue to stand there in shock as I bump past them and leave the dorm. With no idea where I’m going, I just walk, hoping to clear my head.

I am not in love with Alexa Edwards.

I don’t fall in love with girls. No, not me. I fuck them when I need them, then find someone else when I’m bored.

But ever since she moved to Manhattan, things have changed. We’ve started hanging out more, doing things I normally don’t do with girls.

If possible, she’s become more beautiful. How—I have no idea. I just can’t stop thinking about her.

It’s driving me insane.

There’s only one person who knows, and possibly the most annoying person in the world.

Instead of taking a cab, I walk the five blocks to my parents’ building. When I reach the front, I greet Norm, the doorman, then take the elevator up. My hands dig into my pockets as I retrieve my key, using it to open the door. As soon as I’m in, I yell out to my parents, hoping they’re not in the middle of something that will traumatize me again. I swear, they’re animals.

“Beau?” I hear Mom call. She walks out of the study, still dressed in her beige work suit. “I didn’t realize you were coming today.”

I move to where she’s standing, kissing her quickly on the cheek while she observes me. I’m waiting for her to tell me I look like shit, but for once, she keeps her opinions to herself.

“Yeah,” I begin with, scratching the back of my neck. “I just needed to get out of the dorm.”

“Okay, sure.” She nods, lowering her gaze, only to raise it seconds later. “So, this has nothing to do with a certain man expecting a child with his wife?”

My head flinches back slightly while grimacing. “What are you talking about?”

“Let me show you.”

I follow Mom to her office as she takes a seat and types into the search engine Hunter Cash. Wait, what the fuck is happening? My eyes focus on the headline, then continue to read the small article attached to a photo of him and his wife.

Hunter Cash and his wife Kathy will welcome their first child together this year. Despite the age gap, sources close to Kathy have told us she is overjoyed with becoming a mother to her second child as they have been trying since they were first married. Media outlets have reached out to Hunter Cash, who has confirmed this is true but refuses to make any further comments.

Jesus fucking Christ, what a dickhead.

“I can’t believe he cheated on her. Fucking scumbag.”

“On Kathy? I know.”

“No, on Alexa.”

“Honey, I don’t think they were exclusive. You know it was just one of those things—”

“Don’t say it, Mom,” I raise my voice. “Don’t say they were just fuck buddies or whatever.”

“Look, Beau.” Mom softens her tone, placing her hand on my arm. “Alexa has moved on. I’m sure she’s over him. Will she be pissed hearing about it? Probably, still hurts the ego. She’s in a much better place and headspace.”

I’m not going to argue with Mom. Instead, I nod and then tell her I’m going to hang with Dad.

No surprise, I find Dad in his mancave in the middle of the goddamn day like he has nothing to do. He’s yelling at the TV, watching sports, of course, with a drink in his hand. I glance at my watch, noting the time is just after midday. Damn, Heather and Emma were keen if they wanted to fuck me in the day.

Such a wasted opportunity.

Right, now you’re coming to your senses.

“Buddy, what’s happening? You look like shit, by the way.”

When it comes to family, there’s no holding back. Dad calls the shots as he sees it. Like I can argue, I do look like shit.

“Thanks.” I manage with a grunt, taking a seat beside him. “Dad, I need to ask you something. No, wait, tell you something. Actually, I don’t know…”

Dad takes a deep breath, closing his eyes momentarily. “Is this about anal play again? The last time you got drunk, you told me the chick’s hole was too tight, and you couldn’t get your big dick in there. Won’t lie to you, son. Super proud you’re blessed like me.”

“God, Dad.” I cringe while shaking my head. “It’s about Alexa.”

His expression changes as his brows draw together, less joyful to concerned.

“Son, I warned you about too much pussy.” Dad huffs, then places his hand on my shoulder. “Too much, and you get bored. Once you’re bored, you start searching for something else.”

“C’mon, Dad,” I drag. “There’s no such thing as too much pussy.”

“Trust me, there is.”

This is all very rich coming from the man who constantly taunts my mother that he is the hottest thing alive and can get any woman he wants. I’ve seen him in action, and so has Mom. Anytime any other woman goes near him, he freaks and shows his wedding ring. Quite frankly, it’s fucking hilarious, even Mom makes fun of it.

But my problem is not over too much pussy as Dad likes to put it. My problem is I’m kinda, sorta—falling for a woman who has no interest in me.

To Alexa, I’m just her annoying friend or, as she likes to call me, a brother from another mother. She’s totally friend-zoned me.

And I know exactly why.

She’s still in love with him.

Even though the media have published articles saying he’s expecting a baby with his wife.

The stupid chest-tightening thing happens again, annoying me with its presence. It has everything to do with Alexa’s reaction to the news. Unless, of course, she doesn’t find out.

Yeah, you’re an idiot for even thinking it’s possible.

I send her a quick text, reminding her of tonight, hoping to suss her out.

Me

I’m coming by at nine. Don’t even think about pretending to be asleep.

Alexa

I wasn’t pretending last week. I was actually asleep.

My lips curve upward, remembering how she was so pathetically pretending to be asleep, but I caught her trying to hold back a laugh.

Me

Sure, usually you snore and make these moaning sounds like you’re having the best sex of your life. Look, I know I’m good. So maybe you need to test me out in real life instead of dreaming about me.

Alexa

I’LL BE READY… AND NICE TRY, BUDDY.

I try my best to convince Alexa to wear something else. I’m not stupid. Every fucking moron and his dog-ass friend will be trying to get their hands on her. Most of the time, I’m on the verge of punching pretty boy faces, but of course, Alexa is always the one telling me she can hold her own.

Just like this feminist bullshit speech she is giving me right now.

My teeth grind involuntarily, wishing to God she would just listen for once instead of arguing every single point I make.

The dress is short and shows way too much. I turn away, begging myself to let it go, but at the same time, I keep my eye on her and make sure no one even thinks about laying a finger on her.

Our pact, I guess I’ll just bring that up.

It doesn’t take us long to arrive at the penthouse and head straight to the bar. Alexa nursing her drink is amusing, given I don’t give a damn and drink shots like it’s my last day on Earth.

As always, she drags us to the dance floor, which I don’t mind since it means I can stay close and protect her from the greasy fuckers eyeing her already.

I lean in over the noise, trying to ignore the sweltering heat on the dance floor. “Come closer, or you’re about to be hit on.”

Not even giving her a chance to respond, I wrap my hand around her waist and pull her into me. Inside the crowded space, her scent lingers and makes me want to lick the sweat off her neck, desperate to taste her.

No, stop going there. It’s just the tequila. Drink more. It will go away, I promise.

“It’s so hot in here,” she complains, trying to fan her face with her hand. “I’m dying. I’m just going to go to the restroom. Will you be okay?”

“I’m a big boy.” My lips slowly rise into a smirk. “You worried I’m going to hook up while you’re gone? You’re so hot when you’re jealous.”

“Remember the pact,” she warns while pointing her finger. “You break it. I break it. And, I’m not jealous.”

My eyes lazily glance aside in annoyance. “Go, and you ain’t breaking a thing.”

Alexa weaves in and out of the crowd until she disappears around the corner. I dance with some people I know but then begin to worry when it feels like forever, and Alexa hasn’t returned. I scan the dance floor, unable to find her, but then spot her at the bar throwing back a shot.

What in the actual fuck?

“Hey there, crazy, slow down. What the hell happened for you to be drinking like this? I thought you wanted to take it easy?”

She bows her head, then lifts it again moments later with an angered expression. Her usually emerald dancing eyes are anything but happy. What the hell would have happened in that short time for her to be so angry?

“I don’t want to talk about it.”

“Okay, so can I join in?”

A smile graces her lips. “Much appreciated, buddy.”

Our night becomes a blur. Too much tequila and way too much laughter. If we’re good for anything, it’s to make each other forget and pretend this fucked up world we live in doesn’t exist. I’m pretty decent when it comes to holding my liquor, but Alexa tends to get sloppy.

“Maybe…” I begin with, holding her up as she falls to the ground in a fit of laughter, unable to get up “… we should get some fresh air and go home.”

“You’re a party po… pper,” she slurs.

I laugh. “I think you meant to say party pooper.”

On the way home, we laugh about all the times we’ve pranked Eric. He’s an easy target. Yet, Dad is even easier. The guy has screwed around way too much before Mom. He’s forgotten just how colorful his college years were.

I insist on walking Alexa home after the cab ride, given all the weirdos who prey on young women just like her. There are times when we talk non-stop or argue over the most trivial things, and there are times when Alexa falls into a digestive silence. At least she’s sobered up a little and hasn’t completely passed out on me.

In front of her door, she fumbles for her keys and manages to open it. This time, she’s been quiet for a longer period, and I’m done playing games.

“Alexa…” I begin softly while grabbing her arm to stop her before continuing, “… what got into you tonight?”

Her cheeks flush, but then she bows her head almost as if she’s embarrassed. What happened in the restroom? No one better of touched her or I’ll kill them with my bare hands.

Anger surges through me, forcing me to clench my fists into a ball to control what’s about to come out of my mouth. Then, her gaze flicks upward, and just like me, she looks angry.

“Ava told me Hunter is expecting a child,” she rushes in a pitched tone. “A child he conceived while I was sleeping with him.”

My mouth remains shut, unable to connect my thoughts and speech together. Well, let’s be honest here. He’s a fucking jerk for hurting her and taking advantage of a younger woman.

Should she know that? My better judgment warns me to keep my opinions to myself. The last thing I want is to make her feel worse than she already does even though it was always bound to leak out to her.

“I’m sorry, I guess.”

Alexa crosses her arms, tilting her head in confusion. “You’re sorry, you guess? The guy cheated on me. It makes me feel like shit, even though we aren’t together. No one wants to be cheated on.”

“Yeah, you aren’t together. You know, you weren’t innocent in all this. He was married,” I grit, struggling to hold back my anger over the fucking prick. “Move on. If you want to get him back because you’re angry, then I’m here, Alexa.”

“What does that even mean, Beau?”

My gaze fixates on hers, mesmerized by the emerald green orbs staring back at me. Even as kids, when we loathed each other and forced ourselves to hang out or play for the sake of our parents, Alexa’s deep stare would always have some hold on me. Like a superpower freezing me on the spot.

But we’re no longer kids.

And I’m done with being the good guy in all this.

My hands move on their own accord, cupping her cheeks to bring her lips closer to mine. The moment I taste her, the warmth spreads all over my body, making me desperate for more. Why does she taste so sweet and innocent?Like nothing I’ve ever tasted before.

I brush my lips along her lobe, inhaling her scent and allowing it to feed into my desire to own her.

“Revenge, Alexa. We break the pact right here, right now.”

“Beau…” she quivers. “We shouldn’t… we’re friends.”

Unwillingly, I pull back with a deep stare. “And sometimes, friends need each other. It’ll be our little secret. No one will know but us.”

Her eyes never leave mine. The emerald is shining so bright. I know she feels it too, otherwise, her tongue wouldn’t have played with mine during that short kiss.

“We need to agree it’s just this one time. No feelings, nothing. Breaking the pact, only for tonight.” She extends her hand to shake on it. “Deal?”

But instead, I reach out and wrap my hand around her waist, smashing my lips onto hers. I don’t give her a chance to change her mind, moving quickly beneath her dress. Our tongues battle in a frenzy as I grab her ass and lift her toward the bed, desperate to be inside her.

As I hover above her, I gaze into her eyes again.

“Just one time… Alexa. That’s all we both need,” I profess.

Her hands wander to my face, pulling me close to kiss me deeply. I moan into her mouth, sliding my hand back beneath her skirt and between her legs. My hand grazes against her panties, instantly feeling the heat coming through the sheer fabric. Fuck, she’s wet and bare. The perfect combination.

“Beau,” she whispers in between kisses, forcing me to slow down and catch my breath. “Do you have protection?”

Shit, did I? I quickly pull my wallet out of my pocket, unsure if I replaced it the last time I used one. My fingers fumble in the cavity where I usually keep it, only to be relieved when I yank the foil packet out.

In a rush, my lips find their way back, but I don’t let anything stop me. Alexa runs her hands beneath my shirt, scratching her nails on my back as I press against her. I’m rock hard, desperate to be inside her, but I want her completely naked.

As if she can read my mind, she shuffles beneath me, removing her dress. With just her black laced bra and panties, I groan then bite my lip, eager to taste her beautiful tits. My hand moves under her bra, brushing against her erect nipples as she moans in pleasure.

Everything becomes intoxicating, and all my senses are heightened, making me move quicker and faster. My lips inch closer to her perfect tits, but with her bra in the way, I remove it to see her bare chest.

“Do you know how beautiful you are, Alexa?”

Her eyes focus on mine, but I can’t help but fixate on how she bites the corner of her lip, like some secret signal telling me she wants me to fuck her right now.

I’m impatient, needing to be inside her. It’s not my first time, and Lord knows I’ve lost count of how many women, but damn I don’t think I’ve ever been one to forget to wrap my dick in plastic. Quickly removing my belt, pants, and boxers, I rip the corner of the packet and pull the condom out. My dick feels incredibly sensitive, and I’m praying to God I can fucking last.

It slides on, though I wish I could feel her bareback without this stupid thing strangling my dick.

“Beau,” Alexa manages between breaths. “I want you to fuck me as hard as you want.”

My dick hardens even more, oozing a small amount of that pre-cum shit like I’m some horny teenager.

It’s not your fault. A beautiful woman you’ve been jerking off to non-stop for the last few weeks tells you she wants you to fuck her hard.

You’re damn right there’s gonna be pre-cum. Luckily, I didn’t blow on the spot.

“What you’re asking is quite dangerous.” I smirk, watching her tits and licking my lips. “Are you sure you’re ready?”

She nods but then shuffles, so I’m lying on my back, and she hovers above me.

I close my eyes, talking myself off the ledge where I blow right now because she wants to ride me like a dirty sexy cowgirl.

“The question is, are you ready, Romano?”

My eyes flick open as an animalistic grunt escapes me. Alexa wraps her hands around my shaft, then eases herself on slowly. I hold in a breath but bite down at the same time. The second I’m all in, she leans back and begins to rock back and forth.

Every inch of me is growing hot and feverish, with my hands aching to explore her entire body. Instead, I place them beneath my head and watch her pleasure me.

“Is this what you’ve been fantasizing about?” she asks with wild eyes. “Me fucking you and making you come?”

“What makes you think I’m gonna come?” I tease.

“Is that a challenge? Because I’m pretty sure you’re just about to explode.”

She’s right, but I fight the urge and continue to tease her.

“I’m good, still got a while to go.”

“Oh, really?” she questions with a smirk. “Cocky bastard. You know I like to prove you wrong.”

Alexa moves her long hair out of the way, exposing her chest. Then, she does something unexpected. She raises her knees to place her feet flat on the bed, then spreads her legs wide, exposing her pussy right in front of me.

The tingling sensation floods my entire body, and the build-up inside my stomach becomes too much to bear. My hands move fast to her hips, gripping them tightly before a flush of warmth spreads to every inch of my body, and I blow inside, forcing me to jerk forward from the intense rush of pleasure.

“Fuck.” I groan, closing my eyes to the maddening sight of stars.

Just when I think it’s going to stop, Alexa continues to ride me fast until she moans, “I’m… Beau… I’m going to…”

A long moan escapes her beautiful pink lips as she throws her head back and exposes her neck. Each vein is prominent and blue, even in the poorly lit room.

We catch our breaths together, and even though she climbs off, I’m still hard and unable to come down. She falls to my side, then pulls the blanket on top of us.

With her hand resting on my chest, I quickly remove the condom and toss it in the trash can beside her bed.

It’s over. It should feel satisfying.

I should be satisfied.

So why do I feel like I’ve tasted the forbidden fruit and want more? One time is not enough. Here she is, naked beside me as we both lay in silence. We agreed it was a one-time thing. Revenge sex, or whatever you want to call it.

But what now?

Just as I’m about to open my mouth, Alexa turns, so her face is resting on my chest against my beating heart.

“Don’t go, Beau,” she murmurs. “Stay with me tonight.”

And just as I’m about to say something again, her soft snores catch my attention.

If I stay, this won’t end well. I can’t control my temper, especially if I allow myself to think about her fucking me to get over someone else. She’s drunk, there’s the cold hard truth. I’m drunk, but it only means every emotion now feels incredibly heightened. So much for numbing the pain.

Therefore, I do the only thing I can do to protect myself.

I get out of bed, get dressed, and close the door behind me.

As if this never happened…