He jerks the fork out of my hand and moves the plate from my reach. "I'll go eat somewhere else."

"Who eats dinner in the wee hours of the morning?" I call out as he exits the room.

"Someone who just came from the airport, nosey."

I wait until I hear the sound of his door shutting before getting a plate and digging into the scrumptious ensemble of food he's prepared. I'm impressed he can cook, but not surprised since his family is in the business of catering to people. He's probably helped out his whole life.

The house is too quiet. For a while I sit and stare at my empty plate, while I go over the events of the previous day. I'm exhausted. It's now nearly three and I'm wide awake because I regret hurting the people I love.

I hate the person I'm becoming, but in my defense I didn't know that guy was going to be the stripper.

One of the messages from my sister still resonates in my mind.

Don't bother showing up for my wedding.

As much as I've tried to search for ways to get out of it, her words rip me to shreds. She's done with me, and I'm faced to reap what I've sowed.

They're both right. I need to get over this animosity and find peace within myself. This isn't how we were raised to act. When my first bout of sniffles begin, I hear a presence from behind my chair.

Cob is leaning against the doorway with his arms folded. "Look at that. You actually have feelings."

"f.u.c.k off." I cover my face with my hands. "You couldn't begin to understand my life."

"You're probably right. I'm too much of an a.s.shole to understand struggle. Let me guess, I've been handed a silver spoon. I s.h.i.t gold and when I walk through a crowd people kneel down before me." He scuffles. "Yeah, that's exactly my life."

My air filled sigh warrants a coy grin. "I doubt you s.h.i.t gold."

"Yeah, you're probably right. I over exaggerate when it comes to certain things."

I point to his crotch to elude from talking about my problems. "Like the size of your tiny p.e.n.i.s?"

His cackle echoes off the walls. "Yeah, sure. Whatever you think."

This is amusing. "Every man says they're huge."

"I never said either. I'd describe it as being well endowed."

"Statistics say you're full of c.r.a.p."

He comes to stand in front of me and unzips his shorts, dropping them down until he's in his briefs. I've seen him this way before, but it doesn't stop the intrigue. "Still curious?"

"Enlighten me."

Just as he takes his fingers and digs them into the elastic he stops and removes them. "Come over here and do it yourself." A half smile remains on his face as our eyes meet. He knows he's attractive. It's obvious I like what I see, and I'm afraid what will happen if I allow myself to admit it. "What's the matter? All talk and no game?"

I push my plate away from the edge of the counter and stand from my seat. He's only steps away, though I move slowly to a.s.sure myself this is the route I want to take. We're still focused on each other, which only makes this more intense as I approach. "I never refuse a challenge." Instead of looking I take my palm and roll it over the outside of the fabric where his package sits. The moment my hand comes in contact with his warmth, parts of me awaken. Maybe it's because I'm tired. It's possible I'm desperate, but in this moment I can't stop myself from taking what I know I need.

I grab the fabric of the collar of his shirt and pull him down against my lips. He's just brushed his teeth and tastes like mint. His tongue invades my s.p.a.ce and soon taunts mine into joining in a harmonious game. Cob's hands come around my waist and pull me closer. He spins me around and throws me up against the wall, only to lift my hands above my head and stare deeply into my eyes. He traces my mouth with his as he speaks. "We can hate each other when we're done."

"Deal," I say before his lips devour mine.

Chapter 6.

Callie One night stand. That's all this will be.

With each one of his intimidating kisses I keep telling myself this is justifiable. I need this to soothe me from all of my current stress.

His kisses are like little dabs of solace to my soul, reminding me I'm human and capable of feeling something other than never being enough. This man desires me. Maybe it's for the wrong reasons, but at this point I don't really care.

With my body pressed up against the wall, I bring my arms down over his head and gradually slither them across his strong shoulders.

Cob's mouth crashes into mine like he's starved for more, while I succ.u.mb to my own hidden agenda. The farther I allow this to go, the better my chances of getting over my current dilemma.

I know he's not the answer to my problems, but d.a.m.nit he's a pretty great distraction. His tongue mingles with mine over and over again, beckoning parts of my body to react. His touch is precise. He knows exactly what he's doing and at what pace he needs to move. I drag my fingers down his broad shoulders until they're at the width of his back. Pulling him against me, I bite down on his lip and tug. Violence has never been something that gets me going in the bedroom, but in this case I want it rough and unrestricted. Cob needs to know there won't be rules and what better way than to show him I'm totally prepared for whatever he has in mind than to shove him away and lift my shirt over my head. He rakes me in while my bra drops to my feet. Now topless, I begin to shimmy my pants down over my hips.

Cob steps closer, taking my hand and stopping me, only to crouch down and do the job himself. I'm uncomfortable and he knows it. My weakness gives him pleasure. His brows lift as the fabric reveals what hasn't been touched in far too long. I'm no prude. I have desires that I've always seemed to take care of, up until lately. The fact that this man wants me is enough to fuel me to carry on.

He stops and stares at my p.u.s.s.y, causing me to deeply inhale.

Have I not groomed to his standards? Has he changed his mind?

He gives me the answer I seek without having to ask. A low groan escapes him. "What would you say if I told you I stared at your naked body that night for a long d.a.m.n time?" He drags his fingers over the sensitive skin. "I etched this in my mind in case this opportunity wouldn't present itself again."

I don't need to hear this to sleep with him. Nothing could sway me to change my mind. "Do me a favor."

"What?"

"Shut up," I say as I shove his face against my p.u.s.s.y. It's probably not the most pleasing of ways to go about receiving oral s.e.x from a willing partic.i.p.ant, but at this point I couldn't give two s.h.i.ts about his concerns. I'm being selfish and taking what I want without regard for my partner. This encounter isn't because I enjoy being around this person. He's still a stranger; someone I've already decided to loathe. Except, he's useful. He's going to provide me with consolation and bring me back from the brink of giving up. He'll restore my self esteem and allow me to recuperate while in his arms. I'm using him and he knows it. h.e.l.l, he probably likes it.

His tongue acts as a powerful tool, skilled and precise, as he works a circular pattern around my c.l.i.t. Just as I'm on the brink, he moves away and wipes his face with the back of his hand. When I strike a disappointed glance in his direction he explains. "If you want me to continue you're going to have to make it worth my while."

I snarl, lifting his chin so he's still staring at me. "If you keep stalling I might lose interest."

He drags his hand over my overly sensitive c.l.i.t. "I highly doubt that."

His hair is thick as my fingers trail through it. My eyes close as he continues to tease my tender bud. Being naked in front of him only causes my body to react according to his wishes. This a.s.shole wants me to beg, and I'm d.a.m.n near prepared to do it if it gives me the outcome I deserve.

My teeth drag over my bottom lip while Cob continues to entice me from below. His mouth nears my p.u.s.s.y and I witness a hint of a graze. My knees weaken and I'm consumed with ecstasy when I feel his tongue there. Like the technique before, he savors my c.l.i.t, sucking it until I'm almost ready to scream. Shaking and s.e.xually tortured, I succ.u.mb to my own weaknesses. Cob takes his time backing away, admiring the condition he's left me in. He slithers up until he's face to face with me and brings his lips close. "I'm not sorry for that."

"I still hate you," I remind him as I draw in for another kiss.

"You should. I'm a b.a.s.t.a.r.d with no regard for anyone but myself. I take what I want, and after I have it I walk away."

I don't know why his words only make me want him more. It's like I'm up for the challenge of proving him wrong. I feel like I'm capable of changing his mind. I'll have to give it my all and possibly do things I'd never admit to enjoying.

Challenge accepted.

"Good."

He's intrigued as he comes in to reciprocate my previous kiss. I'm unable to prevent his next move. Cob wraps both arms around the top of my legs and takes me over his shoulder as he stands. I don't fight as he carries me in the direction of his bedroom, continuing on until I'm being thrown down on his bed. He removes his briefs and comes at me like a bat out of h.e.l.l. Ambition is written across his face as his lips crash over mine. His intense kisses only lead to more groping. I'm getting further aroused by the second, left panting and irrefutably anxious.

I can feel his stiff erection begging for attention, so without being asked or persuaded, I reach down and sample the girth, coming to the realization that he's every bit of enough to make me crumble. A hint of a groan invades my ear as he reacts to my touch. As we continue to make out, he taunts his rock hard c.o.c.k, stroking it rapidly until I know he's about to blow.

He flips us around and slides off the bed, leaving me wondering what's happening. I watch the rear of his naked physique amble toward a tall dresser. He opens the top drawer and pulls out a box of condoms, selecting one before returning to the bed.

"You're prepared," I almost say in a weakened whisper.

"Always."

I'm not sure whether to be elated or grossed out. The idea of him being with a different woman every night has to be pushed aside in order for me to give my best performance. I don't want to consider I'll be positioned somewhere in the middle of all his conquests.

I take the rubber and rip it open with my teeth, coming to sit between his legs and dipping down to apply it to his awaiting d.i.c.k. He stiffens as both of my hands glide down his long shaft, stopping at the base and rubbing the main tentacle of his sensitive vein. He bucks once, but readjusts, using his strength to bring me to straddle over him. I immediately sit straight up and run my hands through my hair. I'm sure it's a disaster of a tangled mess, but some guys like it to look like the woman has been properly f.u.c.ked, so I decide to go with it. I shake it around until the wild locks tickle my shoulders. My teeth drag against my bottom lip as I slither my wet p.u.s.s.y over his hard rod. His hands grasp my hips as I work, displaying my natural rhythm as move around until he's positioned accordingly.

From the amount of foreplay he's provided, he slips in with ease, filling my walls with his thickness. It's been a while for me, so the mere thought of this happening sends waves of enjoyment through each of my limbs.

I begin to ride him hard, untamed like a bucking stallion. My b.r.e.a.s.t.s are bouncing around, as are his eyes to follow them. He sits straight up and brings one hand through the back of my hair. He's pulling me into a heated kiss while I continue f.u.c.king him. My hips are aching, my thigh burning as the muscles are challenged, but I don't fold. I want him to unravel. He needs to have all of me since it's the only time it will ever happen.

When I think I have the upper hand in this game of s.e.xual proudness, he ups the stakes, flipping me over and forcing me against the head of the bed. My face presses on the cold light painted wall as he comes up behind me, invading the s.p.a.ce between us. He's taking me from behind, slipping inside promptly to keep the momentum going. From this position it's tighter. My channel suffocates his shaft as it's slips in and out. I can feel myself unraveling and there's nothing I can do to stop it. He's dipping his lips down and places gentle kisses across the back of my shoulders, while one hand slips between my legs and teases my c.l.i.t. My a.s.s cheeks tighten as I'm swept away with bliss. When I expect he'll follow, he turns me around and lifts my legs above my head. I watch him soar in and plunge his rock hard weapon deep. I'm torn between my o.r.g.a.s.m and a new bout of sensations I can't even explain. My moans are matched as his lips crash against mine. Sweat trickles down the sides of our faces, and as my hands come around to his back I can tell he's getting a great workout. Cob holds onto my ankles, pushing them as far up as they'll go. It hurts, but I enjoy the pain just as much as the pleasure he's still providing me. Then I watch him lose it. The veins pop on the sides of his forehead as he tightens his hold and stills.

This isn't what I expected, maybe better than I thought, but I won't admit it. I can't. It's s.e.x. Nothing more.

When Cob rolls over to catch his breath, finally freeing his hold over me, I remain still. I've slept with a man for pure gratification and gotten exactly that. My mother wouldn't approve, not that I care.

Sleep finds me fast, and as I let myself fall I finally have something to smile about. Light snoring fills the room from the man beside me. He's so bad for me, but I hate him a little less than before.

Chapter 7.

Callie I get little sleep, and it's not because Cob won't stop snoring. I actually find comfort in knowing there's a handsomely naked man in the bed next to me. By the time the sun shines through the white plastic mini-blinds, I'm so tired I can barely keep my eyes focused. Cob has rolled over and he's facing in another direction. As much as I'd like to remain under the covers, I know it's time for me to leave. I'd be embarra.s.sed if Lys came home and found me shacked up with her landlord, so I do what I feel is the safest resort.

I bolt.

After gathering my clothes, and my fully charged cell phone, I sneak out of the house and drive away in my car. It's better than having to say goodbye, or do the walk of shame so others will always know what I've done.

I drive to the nearest hotel and book a room, where I finally climb into a semi-comfortable bed and catch up on the sleep I didn't give myself the night before.

The next morning I return home, determined to get through the wedding in one piece. Though it was short-lived, my time with Cob helped, at least with my self esteem issues. I'd like to say I can be around Wes and Cammie and feel happy, but I still wasn't there yet. I'd be a fool to expect a one-night-stand with a complete douchebag enough to mend my broken heart.

The first person to find me is my mother. She opens my bedroom door without a single knock. I can already tell she means business when our eyes meet. "You have a lot of apologies to make, Cal."

"Can we talk about this later, Mom? I've been driving for a while and I just want to relax before I get the third degree."

She doesn't budge from her position. "No it can't wait. Your sister is about to get married and you're still holding some kind of ill feelings about it. I know you were interested in Wes, but he's just a guy. It's not like the two of you were involved."

"I thought we were on track to be." I shake my head. "It doesn't matter. I won't be sticking around after the big day anyway."

"So we've heard. When were you planning on telling us? You think hearing it from Cammie was appropriate?"

"I didn't want anyone trying to talk me out of it. I've made my mind up."

"What about your clients at the salon? They count on you."

"Bella is going to take them."

"Does everyone know about these plans of yours except your father and I?"

I shrug. "Mom, I don't know. It's not like I broadcasted an all points bulletin. I'm leaving town for a while. It's a decision I'm making for myself. It's not even about Cam and Wes. I want a fresh start, and being here is just holding me back."

My pet.i.te mother comes to sit on the mattress next to me. She takes my hand in hers and stares down at it. "I wish there was a way to fix this without you having to go out on your own. You saw how hard it was when your sister Ca.s.sie left."

I think back to when my other sister was running around with a known criminal. He led her to Vegas where she dabbled in a lot of things she's not proud to admit. Since then she's turned her life around, but it wasn't always easy, especially for my parents. I remember hearing my mother crying, praying to G.o.d that my sister wasn't dead. "I'm not Ca.s.sie. I'll never be like that. I'm not leaving to run away with a guy. I just need a new start, a fresh outlook. I want to look forward to my days, instead of dwelling on things I'm unable to change. I know Cammie and Wes are happy. I'm glad they have each other and little Maddy, but I've never felt more alone. Please understand why I'm doing this."

She's quiet for a moment. "I suppose I do." She cups my hand and rubs it. "Do you know where you want to go?"