Chapter 4

BEAR

My nostrils flare as the sudden urge to hide her away overwhelms me. I rush at her, throwing her over my shoulder with ease while gathering her clothes. Then I march to the office with purpose. She's silent, probably in shock, just like me. Where the fuck did that come from?

I kick the door closed and stop in the centre of the office. This is only gonna go one way, and I have to see this chick tomorrow when I hand over my daughter, then every day after that. I groan, sliding her down my body until she's back on her feet. It can't happen.

She stays pressed against me, her head lowered and her chest heaving, matching my own rapid breaths. When she finally looks up, there's a hunger in her eyes. I open my mouth to speak, to tell her this ain't gonna happen, but instead, I lower my head until our mouths are a breath away from each other. "Don't say it," she whispers, and the warmth of her breath tickles my face. And then she surprises me for the second time tonight by throwing herself at me.

I catch her as her arms circle my neck and her legs wrap around my waist. Her mouth crashes against my own in a hungry, heated kiss. I automatically brush my large hand over her cheek, sliding it down until I'm cupping the back of her neck and pressing my thumb against her throat. She grinds against me, a small groan slipping from somewhere at the back of her throat. My cock is already raging hard, desperate to be inside her sweet, innocent pussy.

There's no way I'm backing out now as she continues to rub herself against the stiff denim of my jeans. I carry her to the desk, sweeping my arm over it to clear the papers, then I lay her in the centre, keeping a hand on her throat as I gently push her to lie down. I trail hungry kisses down her body, over the peak of her perfectly sized breast, flicking my tongue over her erect nipple. She arches her back, urging me to picture all the ways in which I can corrupt her sweet innocence.

I start by ripping the thong from her, snapping the small silk string, and stuffing it in my pocket. She gasps, and I press harder against her throat while guiding one of her legs over my shoulder. I use my other hand to part her pussy lips, letting the scent of her arousal fill my nostrils. Pressing my tongue at the base of her opening, I glide it slowly through her folds. Her fingers gravitate to my head, entangling in my hair as I lick and taste her.

I push a finger into her, and she clenches. She's so fucking tight, my cock aches for her. I add a second finger, and she cries out, her hands wrapping around my wrist. Her nails dig into my skin with each thrust, and it's seconds before she shudders, coming apart and soaking my hand in her juices. I release her throat and open the desk drawer, retrieving a condom. I rip it with my teeth, and she pushes to sit up, her hooded eyes watching as I unfasten my belt and push my jeans down my thighs.

Her hands go to my boxers, and I smirk, waiting to see if she'll take the lead. She reaches inside and her tiny hand grips my thick erection. She takes the condom from me, smiling smugly as she pushes me back slightly and slides from the desk. Dropping to her knees, she peers up at me with that fucking innocent look and I almost come. She keeps her grip on my cock and licks the bead of cum from the tip. I groan, letting my head fall back as she expertly sucks me into her mouth. She's good . . . far too good, and it gets me wondering how many dicks she's sucked. I give my head a shake, because why the fuck do I care?

I lift her to stand, spinning her away from me so her back is to my front and pushing her to bend over the desk. Taking the condom back from her, I make quick work of slipping it over my erection.

"You good?" I ask.

"Are you having second thoughts?" she asks, glancing back over her shoulder with a leering look in her eyes.

I slap her backside, and she jumps in surprise. Then I lean closer so my mouth is at her ear and my cock is pressing at her entrance. "You good?" I repeat.

"Yes," she grits out, bracing herself for the intrusion as I push a little more inside.

I take a handful of her hair, pulling her head back as I push as far in as she can take me. She cries out, squeezing her eyes closed, and I still, letting her adjust. "You're too fucking tight," I whisper, resting my forehead against her shoulder. I haven't fucked pussy this good in . . . Jesus, I can't even remember.

I begin to move, slow at first, allowing her juices to coat us both before lifting one knee to rest on the desk beside her and slamming in hard, fucking her like our lives depend on it. I look down between us, watching my cock disappear inside her. It sends me over the edge and I grunt hard, stilling as I spill into the condom. I take a second to catch my breath before reaching around and sliding my hand between her legs. She's so wet, her thighs are coated, and my finger slides easily against her swollen clit, giving the friction she needs to come for a second time.

I keep her pinned to the desk as she trembles, allowing little moans to escape her. When she sags against the surface, I grip her waist and spin her over, so she's on her back. Crouching in front of her, I lick her inner thighs clean. She watches as I bury my face between her legs, lapping the remains of her juices. She tastes too good to waste.

I stand, and we stare at one another for a second before that blush creeps up onto her cheeks again. Her innocent look is slipping back into place, but it's too late now—I've seen her come on my fingers. A smirk pulls at my lips as I grab a tissue from the desk and remove the condom. I pull my jeans back into place as she slips from the desk and grabs her jeans. She pulls them on, and I regret ripping her underwear, knowing she's now got to go out there without it. "You got a ride home?" I ask, watching as she puts her bra on.

"I'm good," she mutters.

"Why you looking ashamed?" I ask, arching a brow.

"I don't . . . I'm not," she says defensively, but it's there, all over her face.

"You've not fucked like that before?"

She grabs her vest and pulls it on. "I should go."

I grab her wrist to stop her rushing for the door. "I'll take you."

"I'm fine." She tries to pull free, but I refuse to let her go, taking my bike keys from the drawer and grabbing my kutte.

"I didn't ask how you were. Let's go."

I slide my hand from her wrist until our fingers entwine, then I lead her out into the bar. It's much busier now, and I'm thankful I got her out of there before anyone witnessed her near-perfect body. Sapphire spots us and grins, leaning over the bar. "So, we hiring her or what?"

"No," I say clearly. The thought of this innocent little bitch on that stage sends anger through me.

"Aww, come on, she did what you asked, and I assume you sampled the goods. She ain't leaving here crying like the others, so I'm guessing she passed the test." I groan, glaring at her. It's not the time for her to try to rescue me from a hook-up gone bad. I didn't even give her the nod. She shrugs with a grin as Nora pulls free. "Oh shit, she doesn't know that was part of the interview?"

"Not now, Saph," I snap.

Nora is already marching to the exit. Usually, I'd laugh it off and let her go, but I don't like this feeling in my chest. It's telling me I'm fucking up something beautiful, something rare.

Outside, she's already crossing the car park, and I have to jog to catch up. I've never chased down a woman in my life, if you don't count Harley. The thought of my wife hurts my chest, and I slow. What the hell am I even doing running after this whore like a weak arse pussy? I stop, watching her rush across the street. It was just a fuck. A good fuck, but a fuck, nonetheless.

NORA

I'm so out of breath by the time I reach my house, I'm almost sick. I stop at the gate, risking a glance back and feeling relieved to see he hasn't followed me, then I bury my face in my hands. Fuck, I shagged Elsie's dad. I shagged her fucking dad. I groan. What the hell was I thinking? Clearly, I wasn't.

The front door opens and Josh appears holding a Pot Noodle. "You coming in or staying out here all night?" he asks.

I give a weak smile and push off the wall, going inside. I take one last look before closing the door and locking it. Bear didn't follow me, and I don't know if that makes me feel relieved or heartbroken.

Mum is sleeping when I go in to check on her. "The carer left when I got home," says Josh, leaning in the doorway.

"What time was that?" I ask.

"About ten."

"Ten?" I repeat. "She was supposed to leave at nine."

He shrugs. "I was late."

"But that's gonna cost another twenty-five quid, Josh."

"What's the big deal? I gave you some money, didn't I?"

I follow him back out the room. "About that," I say, and he groans out loud. "Where did you get it?"

"I told you, I worked."

"Where? For who?"

"Just some bar shifts, nothing big. Don't make into a deal."

"You're not old enough to work a bar."

"Actually, I am if there's an adult with me, and there was."

"Which bar?"

"Nora, take a chill pill. You're not going in there to kick off. We need the money, and I can get that, so stop stressing." He leans in to kiss me on the cheek then rushes upstairs, slamming his bedroom door.

I'm exhausted when my alarm rings out at exactly six-thirty the next morning. I follow my usual routine, only this time, I add a small amount of makeup. It's just enough to look a little more alive, and it has nothing at all to do with Elsie's dad. Nothing at all.

Downstairs, I check on Mum. She's awake, and when I step into her room, she smiles. "How was the new job?"

"It was great," I tell her, checking her catheter bag. "How was your night?"

She grabs my hand and smiles sympathetically. It makes me want to cry, so I look away and begin fussing with her sheet. "I hate you have to work extra for me."

"Don't be crazy. You worked hard enough for us all when we were growing up."

"That's my job. This isn't yours. The sooner I slip away?—"

"Mum," I say, gasping, "don't talk like that."

"It would be easier on you both."

"No, it wouldn't. Because then we'd have to live without you, and neither of us want that."

"Josh won't even look me in the eye," she almost whispers. "I hate seeing him in pain."

I scoff. "Pain? That boy doesn't know pain."

"Hey," she scolds, and I instantly feel guilty. "He's handling this in his own way, Nora. But I know he's hurting, and he thinks ignoring all this will make it easier. I'm worried about him."

I squeeze her hand reassuringly. "I'll talk to him."

The doorbell rings and Jackie appears looking bright and fresh. "Good night?" she asks.

Mum nods. "For once."

"Great. Let's give you a wash today. It'll make you feel better."

I kiss Mum on the cheek, relaxed she's in safe hands. "I'll see you later."

I check my reflection one last time in the bathroom at work before I'm ready to face Bear. I look good. My cheeks are slightly pink from rushing around this morning, my makeup gives me a glow, and the flowered summer dress teamed with plimsoles give off a cute vibe. All in all, I'm looking happy, alive, and . . .

"Did you get a fuck last night or what?" comes Jessie's voice as she barges into the bathroom.

My eyes widen. "What?"

She takes one of my curls between her fingers and stares at my reflection in the mirror. "You look just fucked."

"What?" I repeat, peering closer at myself in the mirror. "How?"

"I dunno," she muses, tipping her head to one side. "You look relaxed and just . . . fucked." She shrugs, laughing. "So, who was the lucky guy?"

"No one you know," I mutter, rubbing my cheeks to try and rid myself of blush.

"Lucky bitch," she says, checking her own reflection. "I went on a Tinder date and the closest I got to an orgasm was when he accidentally brushed my tit. I say accidentally, but I think he was trying to do it discreetly, like in a perverted kind of way."

"Oh. You seeing him again?"

She shrugs. "Maybe."

I grin, shaking my head as I leave the bathroom and prepare myself for Bear. I step outside and am disappointed when the dancer from last night is with Elsie. She's wearing shades to cover her eyes, and I wonder if she's even been to bed yet. I approach, and Elsie smiles wide. "Miss Coles, this is my Aunty Lu."

I smile weakly. "Hi."

Lu lowers her shades and stares at me over the top, squinting slightly at the intrusion of light. "Weren't you at the bar last night?"

I give a nod. "Is her dad not with her today?" I ask, even though it's clear he isn't.

She places her shades back over her eyes. "I left him in bed. We didn't get in until six, so I thought I'd do the school run and give him a break."

I frown. "Oh, you two are . . ." I trail off because it's not my business.

"It's not like that. Well, it is, but it isn't." She shrugs, handing me Elsie's school bag. "See you later, Els," she adds, ruffling her hair.

"Erm, actually, if someone else is picking her up other than her dad, he needs to call ahead to put them on the approved list."

"Whatever. Catch yah later," she says, already heading for the gate.

Elsie slips her hand in mine. "She's cool, isn't she?"

I give a nod. "She seems nice."

"She sleeps in Daddy's bed, but I can't go in when she's there."

I bristle at her words. Christ, the man is a whore. "We have some fun things planned today," I say, trying to distract her, but it doesn't work.

"One time, I went into his room when she was there and she was making a funny noise."

"Maybe talk to Daddy about that," I cut in, dreading her next words.

"I did. He said they were playing a game."

"Then that's what they were doing."

"But I told my grandma, and she said Lu is a slag. What does that mean?"

I gasp, glancing around before crouching down to eye level. "Elsie, that's a grown-up word. You mustn't say that because it's not nice."

She pouts. "Then why'd she say it?"

"I don't know, but please don't repeat it again."

Home time comes quickly. I've been rushed off my feet all day, and Elsie has had two major kick-offs, which almost broke me.

I step out, fully expecting to see Lu, and am surprised when it's Bear waiting. I take a deep breath and head over. "Can I have a quiet word?" I ask, not quite meeting his eyes.

"Where is she?" he asks, looking past me for his daughter.

"Inside listening to story time. She's safe, but it hasn't been a good day."

"I already told you, I don't need you to update me. Elsie can do that."

"Actually, no, she can't," I say firmly, "which is why I'm working with her." He grabs my upper arm and marches me out of view from the other parents. We're behind a wall, and I'm suddenly very conscious that we're alone. "What are you doing?"

"Just cos we fucked one time doesn't give you the right to start speaking to me with attitude," he hisses. "My kid always tells me about her day, and I live for those ten minutes, so I don't need you to update me and ruin it."

"But she won't tell you everything," I snap, pulling free. "And don't be such a prick. This has nothing to do with last night and everything to do with a heartbroken little girl."

"Can you speak to me like that here?" he asks, arching a brow.

I fold my arms over my chest. "Mr. Stevens, Elsie bit three children today. She wet herself. She's kicked and punched me and another member of staff. She spent most of the afternoon in the sensory room, and I understand the school tried to call you and got no response. It didn't help that this morning she told me her grandmother used the word ‘slag' in front of her." I release an angry breath. "Elsie has not had a good day, and the reason I came out here to tell you without her is because she's mortified, and I don't think discussing it in front of her will help." I spin on my heel and go to march off, feeling righteous and proud that, for once, I've stood up to him.

"Hold the fuck on," he snaps, grabbing my arm again and pulling me back. "She wet herself?"

"Yes."

"Did anyone see?"

I shake my head. "No. I whisked her out of class quickly, and she was changed and back before anyone noticed."

"She never does that."

"Well, she did today. Is anything bothering her?"

He frowns, his brow furrowing like he's trying hard to think. "No."

"New friend?" I ask, using air quotes, which I instantly regret. "Not asking for personal reasons, obviously, but with Lu dropping her off this morning and Elsie speaking about it?—"

"What did she say?"

"Just that she sleeps in your bed sometimes, and when that happens, she can't go in your room."

He stares at the ground, placing his hands on his hips. "It's not like that."

"When a new person moves into the home, it can be unsettling," I say, ignoring his last comment.

"Loads of women live there," he snaps, and I arch a brow. Wow, he really is a player. "Not like that," he adds. "I live in a clubhouse. It's full of bikers and women. She's grown up there, so she's used to it."

I bite my lower lip. "And seeing them in your bed?"

He shrugs. "Maybe. I don't always hide it well." The confirmation burns me, not that it should because he's a free agent.

"Talk to her. Explain things. It might help." I try to walk away again, but this time, he steps in front of me. He then walks me back until I'm pressed against the wall.

"You left last night without letting me explain."

"You don't need to," I say, forcing a smile.

"I know, and usually, I wouldn't, but with you, it's different." He twists one of my curls around his finger.

I feel hope pushing it's way into my chest. "Yeah, how?" I almost whisper.

"You work with my kid. I have to see you every day." My hope leaves quickly as he drops my hair. "I'm a bad guy, Nora. Way too bad for someone like you."

"You don't even know me," I mutter.

He grins. "I know you're a good girl. Sweet. Innocent." His mouth edges closer to mine and he holds my stare. "I'd destroy you."

I inhale sharply before ducking under his arm and putting much needed distance between us. Innocent? Sweet? He doesn't have a fucking clue, but I'll show him how wrong he is.