CH 1-10

Summary

All my life I’ve been told what to eat, what to wear, and what to do. My cousin is getting married and like my dear mother wanted to point out to poor old me, she was skinny and beautiful-not to mention top of her class and now well on her way to a prestige lawyer agency. Do I care about salads? No. Give me my damn cake and leave me alone. Do I care about money? All I need is a cardboard box and I am all set. However, if I am going to survive the next month in Spain, I need help and what I mean by help is enlisting my best friend and dear neighbor, Axel Rodriguez. Everything should go exactly as plan. Make mama happy, survive wedding, and come back home. Problem is-he can’t keep his hands off me.

Chapter 1

All my life I struggled with my weight and my mother made sure I knew how fat I was. Yes, I’m 5′2 and fit into a size 14 pants, maybe a size 12 if I suck it in and squeeze my butt cheeks but then I look like I’m constipated.

No mom, I do not want to cut sugar or bacon out of my food list. It is a necessity for survival.

Nonetheless, in my attempt to please her I have tried all kinds of diet programs and exercises routine.

She says my ass is too big that I needed to do some squats to shape it up. Then she commented about my waistband. I had a muffin top, she said. I needed to do some crunches or run some laps.

All this and I know it sounds she doesn’t love me but she does. She just wants me to be healthier but what can I do when I love bacon and cake.

I have an older brother who is older than me by two years and nine months. His name is Brandon. He is very much like my mother—fit and smart. I, on the other hand, take after my father who likes bacon and cake.

Brandon lives on his own and owns his own bicycle shop. After he moved out and I turned eighteen, I moved out of my parent’s home. My apartment is not as extravagant as Brandon but it’s comfy and homey.

My mother doesn’t call me very often but when she does, she can talk for hours. Gossip is life, you know.

I was working as a librarian at the county library when my cell phone buzzed. My mother’s name flashed across the screen and I slipped behind into the back room to answer her call.

“Sup mom.” I answered.

“Really, Ryleigh?” I can practically see her roll her eyes. I giggled knowing full well how much it irritates her when I don’t talk properly.

“Sorry, mom.” I replied. “I’m kind of at work. Is there something you need?”

I heard her sigh and the sound of the city streets zooming by and I knew she was window shopping, “Sweetie, you really need to find a different job. I know you can do better. I mean, a librarian is just not enough.”

I rolled my eyes. She has been insisting on me asking my cousin Emery for a desk job at the agency she worked for. You see, she’s a lawyer that worked for one of the biggest law firms in southern California.

“Mom, I do not want to work with Emery. I hate wearing suits and stuff.” I mumbled, scrunching up my nose in distaste. I’ll die before squeezing into dress pants or worse a pencil skirt.

“I just don’t understand how we are mother and daughter. You are completely different form me. You must take after your father.” She said with disappointment.

And there we go. She’s disappointed in me and soon she will go off in a rant about my life and my future. How I don’t have a boyfriend because I am too fat.

“Mom-”

“I could go on and on about what you are doing wrong with your life but that is not what I am calling for.” She interrupted. I can literally feel her excitement through the phone.

“Sweetie, pack your bags.”

“What?” My eyebrows furrowed in confusion.

“Cause we are going to Spain!” She squealed and I can imagine her skipping and hopping on her feet with joy.

“Uh…” I replied. She was excited but all I could think about was where the heck am I going to earn enough money to travel to a foreign country.

“Your cousin Emery is getting married and they are holding their wedding in Spain. They have invited us! Do you know exciting this will be? Imagine all the stores and places we can see.” She continued without missing a beat.

She talked for a few minutes about the wedding and all the plans. I zoned in and out of the conversation and mumbled an occasional ‘cool’ and ‘awesome’ so that she believe I was listening. Truth be told, I’m not going but I will let my mom spread her joy before I break the news for her.

After a few minutes my mom asked, “Are you listening to me?”

“Cool.” I answered.

“Ryleigh Helen Friedman.” My mother snapped.

“What?” She got my full attention now. Full names are no joke.

“You were not paying attention, were you?” She accused.

“Of course I was.” I lied but my mother knew me well. Heck, she gave birth to me.

“You’re going and there is no changing my mind.” She confirmed and there goes my hope down the drain. When my mother made up her mind, there was no changing it.

“Well, I don’t have the money.” I threw that excuse out.

“Your father and I have that taken care of.” She easily reflected my excuse. My life is over. My father worked for a computer software company. He was a software engineer and earned a pretty decent salary.

“But-”

“You’re going.”

Those words hunted me throughout the rest of my shift at work and all the way home. I walked up the two flights of stairs to my apartment and searched for my keys in my purse. When I finally found the keys and was about to insert into the keyhole, I heard a manly voice coming up the stairs.

“Yea, I worked three stretches today. I don’t know man. I’m beat.” Axel rounded the corner. He chuckled into the phone and made a joke back at who he was talking to.

Halfway down the hallway and he notices me. Lifting his hand up into the air he waved ‘hi’. I waved back before putting my key in the keyhole.

“Hey, listen, I’ll call you back. Yeah, I mean it. I’ll call you. Don’t worry, man.” The other person must have made a comment because he laughed again. “Fuck you, Javier. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

I turned to see him hanging up his phone and walking up to me. Even when Axel showers, sometimes I can still smell the smoke. He was a fireman and usually works very long shifts.

“How’s your day, Hermosa (Beautiful)?” He asked huskily, looking me up and down before winking and leaning against my door frame with his arms crossed.

“Crappy.” I muttered before jamming my key into the keyhole finally. My mother’s words coming back to haunt me.

Axel grinned, “Then how about I make your day better? If you let me in I can make you some of my famous cinnamon churros.”

“Didn’t you say you were tired?” I questioned, hearing his conversation when he first came up the stairs.

“For you, Hermosa, I’ll even fight sleep just to make you happy.” He said smoothly.

I snickered at his stupid pickup lines. I have known Axel ever since moving into this apartment. At first, we barely see each other because of his weird hours. When we do, he always had a woman wrapped around him or moaning with pleasure from the other side of the wall. Yes, part of renting this apartment, you hear almost everything that goes on with your neighbor.

Axel and I became friends when I attempted to cook myself some food. I ended up lighting my kitchen on fire. He heard me screaming and trying to kill the fire with a towel. When he kicked my front door open, he helped me kill the fire.

He called me crazy. I was coughing like crazy and he ended up whipping my windows open to give me fresh air. After I told him what I was doing, he mumbled a few curse words under his breath before disappearing into his apartment and coming back with some food he made.

After that, he will drop off food at my place before leaving for the day. I will ask him why does he cook me food and he told me it’s not because I am special. It was just because he had leftovers and didn’t want me to burn down his apartment while he was gone.

It didn’t take long before we became best friends.

I opened my door and waved for him to enter. If he was making me food, I wasn’t going to argue with him. Food makes me happy. Food is life.

Slipping into a chair by the small dining table in the kitchen I watched him whip out my dishes and shuffle through pantries for ingredients.

“So are you going to tell me what happened?” He asked, not looking up from his work. He made quick work in whipping up the dough.

“My mom wants me to fly to Spain with them.” I muttered unhappily.

He glanced up from his work to look at me, “And?”

“It’s my cousin Emery’s wedding. I know when I arrive there it will be hell. All my life, I never heard the end of Emery and I. My mom likes to compare us. Emery is the opposite of me.” I explained.

“Why do you care what she thinks?” Axel asked, he poured some oil into a pan.

“I don’t but I don’t want to hear about it too.” I told him.

“So cousin Emery has it better, according to your mom.” Axel said and I nodded.

“She’s a lawyer with a hot ass body. She is like a freaking Barbie when I’m a fucking cabbage patch.” I made the analogy.

He laughed, his chocolate brown eyes sparkling amusingly. He started piping the dough into the oil.

“If you don’t want to go then don’t go.” He simply replied.

I scoffed, “My mother is not someone you want to deal with. I can’t say no. I have to go.”

Picking up my tong he watched the dough began to cook. His back was towards me and I watched his dirty white t-shirt stretch over his muscular back. Axel was tall and sexy. His voice also held a foreign accent every time he spoke. It was thick and deep.

“Then go but don’t give a crap what anyone thinks and if they start talking shit just hide in your room.” He said nonchalantly. He took out the churros he cooked and drain on a paper towel he had on a plate next to him.

“Yeah right. I’m supposed to be there for a whole month and not to mention my mother is probably going to hook me up with some rich friend of Emery. I can already see it. She’s going to try and sell me off like cattle.” I whined and literally sulked my way towards the churros he dusted with sugar and cinnamon. I picked one up but it got too hot. I dropped it onto the plate before hissing in pain.

“What the hell am I going to do with you, woman? Basic rules of life, don’t touch anything hot or you will burn yourself.” He enunciated the last part to me like he was speaking to an idiot.

“Shut up.” I slapped his shoulder before grabbing the yummy plate of churros and walking towards the dining table.

He followed after me and leaned against the kitchen wall with his arms crossed.

“I have an idea.” He said.

I slowly picked up a churro again and surprisingly it wasn’t too hot. Popping the warm delicate fried dessert into my mouth I munched on it while giving him a questioning look.

The corner of his lip lifted mischievously, “How about I go with you?”

I choked on the dessert for several seconds before swallowing hard and looking at him to see if he was joking or not.

“You’re joking right?” I asked after a few minutes.

He shrugged, “I always wanted to travel and work has been stressful. I could use a vacation and Spain doesn’t sound that bad. I could go with you and I could even pretend to be your boyfriend to ward off any potential candidates your mom wants to hook you up with. Plus, if people start talking shit I’ll be the buffer.”

I ate my second churro as I mulled this over. Quite honestly, this wasn’t a bad idea. Axel Rodriguez going to Spain with me. What could go wrong?

Chapter 2

The flight to Spain will be happening in a few days. That leaves me with three days of trying to live my life before it gets ruled by relatives and family. Three days of sanity and doing whatever I wanted.

It was late afternoon and I had just got off work. My mother had texted several times to remember to bring decent clothes. That means no sweatpants, no old t-shirts, and no yoga pants. This means my whole closet. I made a comment back to her that I might as well go naked because that eliminates everything I have.

Of course, she offered to go out and buy me some but I immediately tossed that idea out the window. No way will I let mother buy me clothes.

So, this left me driving to the fire station to pick up Axel. Why do I need to pick him up? Because the only friend I can think of that will tag along with me on a shopping trip and not make me bored.

I pulled up to the rounded drive way at the fire station. He was already standing by the entrance waiting. When he saw me pull up, he jogged up and opened the passenger door to get in.

“I can’t believe you’re making me go shopping with you, Hermosa. I do not shop. I buy clothes online and have them delivered to me.” He said.

“Oh, stop pouting. If I am going through this torture, you will go through it with me.” I snapped before shifting gears and driving towards the mall.

Axel pulled down the visor and checked his hair. I don’t know why he needs to because it is usually a disheveled mess but it did make him look like a total bad boy. Axel has two brothers. Axel was the middle child. His older brother is married and has five kids. The younger brother was studying abroad.

I haven’t met the older brother yet but I have met the younger brother when he came to stay with Axel for a couple of months. Axel is twenty-eight years old and if I recalled he was a year or two apart from his brothers.

Axel was a total playboy but can you really blame him? He was tall, dark, and handsome. He has sharp black eyes that was half hidden by tangled masses of jet black, unkempt hair. His burly physique deepened his exotic look and to top it off I have seen him almost naked.

There were several occasions he will walk over to my apartment with only a towel wrapped around his waist. A full-fledged warrior avatar tattoo on his right biceps and on his chest, was ′Non desistas, non exieris’. It meant never give up, never surrender.

Now, you are probably asking why haven’t I fallen for him? Truth be told, living next door to him and hearing women scream with pleasure it isn’t my thing. I know him. I know he is a play boy and I don’t want to get my heart broken. So, I stop it before it could. Common sense and all.

Axel and I arrived at the mall and headed into the first store that I saw had a few cute clothes. He stood around with his hands in his pocket. His eyes wandering around the store. A few women stopped to whisper and gawk at him. He seemed oblivious. In fact, I’m surprise he was stuck to my side.

“What about this one?” I lifted a maroon flowy dress from a rack. I chose it because It’ll hide my fat.

He glanced down at what I picked and shook his head, “Nope.”

He looked away again and I can see the boredom clearly in his eyes. I huffed and pouted as I placed it back on the rack. I looked through the clothes and when I found nothing I liked I moved onto the next. When I couldn’t find anything that I liked or would at least look decent on me I huffed in irritation.

“There’s nothing good. Why do clothing companies make clothes that makes a fat girl look like a fucking cupcake?” I grumbled.

That caught Axel’s attention. He sighed and placed his hands on my cheeks, forcing me to face him.

“Repeat after me.” He ordered. “I am not fat.”

“Stop.” I tried shoving his hands away. “That’s not funny.”

“Ryleigh, there are tons of clothes here that would look good on you. You just don’t know how to look.” He emphasized it by squeezing my cheeks harder.

“Ow.” I mumbled before shoving at his hands again. “Let me go you idiot.”

He chuckled and released my cheeks only to grab onto my hand. I looked down at our hands and back at him. His fingers were nicely intertwined with mine. I couldn’t help but noticed how well our hands fit together.

He jerked our hands and my eyes snapped up to meet his, “Let me find you some clothes.”

“I don’t know if that is a good idea.” I squeaked out as he half dragged me to some racks. He started picking out clothes and tossing them into my free hand. After he was done, he dragged me to the dressing room.

He released my hand and with a hand motion, motioned me to go to one of the dressing room. I rolled my eyes and trudged to one of them. The first dress I picked was a black silhouette dress that was knee high. At first thought, it wasn’t my kind of clothes and not my first choice but I’ll indulge Axel.

I slipped it on and tried zipping up the backside enough to look decent. After zipping it up halfway I looked into the mirror and was taken aback. It didn’t look so bad. I looked incredible in this dress. The low neckline revealed part of my boobs. My mousy brown hair falling over my shoulders and down to the curve of my back.

A knock at my door snapped me from ogling my body, ”Hermosa, I hope you’re alive in there.”

“Axel.” I whisper shouted. “This is the women’s fitting room! What the hell are you doing in here?”

“And your point?” He sounded confused.

Rolling my eyes, I whipped the door open to glare at him. “My point is you are not supposed to be here unless you have a vagina that I am not aware of.”

He looked me up and down slowly and I snapped my mouth shut. My skin prickled with awareness and I suddenly felt very naked in front of his dark smoldering eyes.

Did I really stun the playboy Axel speechless? I must admit though, I did feel like a million dollars in this dress.

“Axel…?” I raised an eyebrow.

He blinked and that seemed to snap him out of his stupor. He cleared his throat and scratched at the back of his neck.

“You look amazing.” He complimented.

“I know, don’t I look hot in this dress?” Completely forgetting that he was still in the women’s fitting room, I turned around to face the mirror, the door opened wider and Axel now had full view of my big ass and that is exactly where his eyes went to.

He whistled and bit his bottom lip, “Damn, that’s what you have been hiding underneath all those sweats.”

My hands went to my ass cheeks in a sorry attempt to cover it. “Can you please stop staring like you want to eat it?”

His eyes flickered up to me and flashed me a wicked smirk, “Sounds like a good idea.”

My eyes widened and I picked up a hanger to hit him with it. He chuckled and backed away. When he was well out of my space, I closed the door. I was finally alone and I glanced in the mirror to see that I was blushing. Placing my palms on my cheek, I tried to shake off the butterflies fluttering in my stomach.

“This is Axel. The playboy.” I muttered.

After trying on the clothes that he chose, I ended up buying more than half of it. We went to the shoe store. I tried on a couple and had two in my hands.

When we were reaching the end of the shoe aisle he stopped and I turned around to see what caught his attention. He picked up a pair of two inches black high heels that looked like hooker shoes.

“Hermosa, you have to buy these and wear them when we finally have sleep overs.” He winked at me. I know what Axel mean by ‘sleep overs’. With him, it wasn’t just sleep overs. I am pretty sure if I opened my door wide open, the man will jump into bed. If he could hump anything, he would.

“Yeah, that will never happen.” I took the shoes from him and place them back on the shelves.

“Tú no sabes (You don’t know),” He said huskily. “You might not be able to resist my charms.”

“I’m immune to them. It doesn’t affect me.” I told him.

He chuckled, ”Hermosa, no women are immune to my charms. I will find a way to break that hard shell of yours and when I do, Te enamorarás

de mi (You will fall for me).“

After shopping for shoes, we walked the mall for a little bit. When we passed Victoria Secret’s. He made a stop. I glanced at him and at the store.

“Oh no. We are not going in there. I like my cotton underwear.” I shook my head.

“You mean those granny panties? I am not even sure you can call them panties.” He made a face. I growled at his insult before punching him in the chest.

“Ow, ok, now that hurt. What the hell, Axel, do you wear chest plates?” I grumbled, holding my injured hand.

He chuckled before grabbing a hold of my arm, again, half dragging me inside the store.

Oh no, you won’t!

“Axel, let me go!”

“If we are going to make this boyfriend girlfriend relationship real, you have to wear panties.” He said as if he will even get to see what I am wearing underneath.

“Why do you care? It’s not like you will get to take them off anyways.” I muttered.

“Will you just buy it?” He rolled his eyes at me. ”Dios mio, you are stubborn, Hermosa.”

I rolled my eyes after him, “Fine. I’ll get some. Who knows, I might end up liking someone there and maybe he will get to take off my clothes after all. It wouldn’t hurt to be prepared.”

I started to pick up a lace pantie but the next thing I knew he grabbed me around the elbow and dragged me out of the store.

“Axel! Stop manhandling me, you oaf!” I snapped when he released me.

“If you are going to buy it for another man then let’s just forget it.” He grumbled in irritation.

“Nope, now you had convinced me. We are going back in there and getting me some sexy undergarments.” I marched inside. I heard him groan and followed in after me.

Chapter 3

Three days had come and gone. Axel and I had just arrived in Barcelona, Spain. My parents told me that they will be the ones picking us up because they wanted to meet my boyfriend. When my mother heard about it, she was in total disbelief. She was convinced that I would at least mentioned his name through our phone calls. I can tell that she was hurt and disappointed in being left out from the details in my life.

“There they are.” I leaned in to whisper to Axel. He followed my line of sight until he saw my parents. My mother looking between us with a smile.

“Wow, your mom and you do not look alike at all,” Axel mentioned.

“Unfortunately, I was born with my father’s brown hair and his metabolism,” I replied.

When we reached them, my mother pulled me into a tight hug, “Oh sweetie, it’s been so long since I have seen you.”

She pulled back, “It looks like you gained a little bit of weight. Have you been trying that exercise diet program that I sent to your email? Connie swears by it!”

Connie was my mother’s trainer. My mom likes to be in top shape. I gave a fake laugh before tucking a strand of hair behind my ear.

“I haven’t had time. You know, work has kept me busy.” I lied.

“Marie, stop pestering Ryleigh. She’s perfect the way she is.” My father scolded before pulling me away from my mother for a hug.

“Hi Dad.” I hugged him back. “I missed you.”

“I missed you too, darling.” He then pulled back and cleared his throat. It was then I remember Axel.

“Oh, mom and dad, meet my boyfriend, Axel.” I linked my hand through one of his arms. Axel shook my father’s hand while they both had a silent staring standoff.

“It’s nice to meet you, sir.” Axel greeted politely. He greeted my mother who still didn’t look entirely convinced that he was my boyfriend.

After grabbing our luggage, we got into a rented car and drove off to the hotel. My mother was talking all the way there. She pointed out sites excitedly and spoke about the wedding.

“Your uncle Tom will be there and grandma Vee. I also saw Aunt Becca.” My mother giggled. “My, the years have been harsh on her. She really has to see a plastic surgeon about those wrinkles.”

Axel looked at me with an arched eyebrow. I knew what he was thinking. How the heck did I get stuck with a mother like her? It was kind of funny. My mother is shallow but she’s sweet, honest!

When we arrived at the grand hotel, my parents stepped out of the car. Axel grabbed both of our luggage and we entered the lobby with my parents. My mother stopped and turned to me.

“I forgot to tell you, Emery and Ronald were not able to book enough rooms for everyone. We have a large party but the hotel refused to give us enough rooms. They needed it for the other customers. We had to settle with you two sharing a room together.” She clarified as we walked up to the check-in desk.

“I don’t approve of this but I can’t do anything about it.” My father grumbled.

“One room? Does it have two beds?” I asked.

My mother turned to me with the key card in her hand, “Oh no. Regrettably, they only had one room with one bed available. Will that is a problem?”

I opened my mouth to say yes but Axel wrapped an arm around my waist and squeezed it, “No, we can handle it.”

My wide eyes snapped up to glare at him. Axel took the key card from my mother.

“Well, I am assuming you two are exhausted. Wash up and rest. We will see you tonight at dinner in conference room B. Dinner is at six-thirty. Oh and wear something nice.” She told me.

I watched my parents walked away before turning to look at Axel. He wore a smug expression and wiggled his eyebrows.

“You’re sleeping on the ground.” I snarled before stomping off to the elevator.

I heard him chuckle before following me. Once we were in the elevator and going up to the third floor, he spoke, “I am not sleeping on the ground.”

“Yes, you are.” I snapped, turning to throw him a good glare.

The corner of his mouth lifted, “Are you scared that when we sleep together you won’t be able to resist me?”

“W-what?” I sputtered. “Of course not.”

“Then I don’t see what’s the problem here if we sleep together. If you are really immune to my charms like how you have said then you shouldn’t worry about a thing.” He shrugged as he spoke. The elevator dinged and it slid open.

We stepped out onto our floor and he read the directions on the wall before directing us to our room. I wasn’t afraid of us sleeping together. I am immune to his charms. I’ll show him.

“Fine. It won’t be any different than me sleeping with George.” I retorted.

He halted his steps and turned to glare at me, “Who the hell is George?”

“Well I have been sleeping with him since I moved in next door to you,” I replied, feeling completely confused at his reaction.

“What?” He said incredulously. “I know you haven’t been sleeping with anyone, Hermosa. I would know.”

When I realized what he was thinking I began laughing, tears in my eyes I wiped it with my thumb before telling him who George was.

“George is my stuff teddy bear. He’s about this high.” I motioned with my hand his height and then I began laughing all over again. “Oh my god, you really thought I was I was sleeping with a guy.”

“He’s a teddy bear?” He looked dumbfounded. Smirking I shook my head and walked over to the bed with my luggage.

“In fact, I brought him with me.” I unzipped my suitcase and pulled him out. He was soft and cute. He had on some cute blue overalls and a cute little railroad hat on.

Axel rolled his eyes and headed for the bathroom. Soon after, I heard the water running and knew he was taking a bath. His reaction was hilarious but it made me wonder why he was angry in the first place. It’s not like he was my boyfriend. He was really taking this roleplaying too seriously.

I changed into a clean t-shirt and some sleeping shorts before crawling into bed with George in the smack middle. George will serve as a barrier to Axel and me. I didn’t realize how tired I was. I fell asleep immediately after.

When I awoke, it was dark outside and the hotel room was dimly lit with a wall light. I noticed how uncomfortable I was. The air conditioner wasn’t on and I was literally sweating. It felt like a heater was blowing heat to my back. I wiggled my backside and noticed immediately it was hard and felt someone breathing down my neck. It was then I felt the arm that was slung over my waist.

What the hell?

I pulled myself up into a sitting position and Axel’s arm fell to my lap. He was still snoring soundly next to me. The first thought that came to mind was, ‘where the hell was George?’.

I saw poor George on the ground at the foot of the bed. Axel must have thrown him across the room. I pinned Axel’s sleeping form with a hard glare before giving him a good shove.

“Axel Damien Rodriguez!” I snapped.

He groaned and rolled over onto his back, “Go back to sleep, Hermosa.“

“Axel!” I shoved him one more time.

He popped open one eye to look at me and asked in a husky voice, “What? Is it time to get up already?”

“Why did you throw George across the room?” I accused.

“He was in the way. There wasn’t enough room for him, you, and I. I’m sure he won’t mind sleeping on the floor.” Axel grumbled and tried rolling over to the other side.

I picked up my pillow and hit him on the side with it, “You will not touch George. He will sleep between us.”

“Hermosa, it’s either him or I. I mean who do you love more? Do you want me to wake up with back pain?” Axel sighed and propped himself up on his elbow to look at me. The soft cotton cover slid down his chest, revealing his tattoos. He practically looks like a model from a magazine with his disheveled black hair and he didn’t even put any effort into it.

I rolled my eyes and glanced at the clock in the room. It was six in the evening and dinner was at six thirty which means we both had thirty minutes to get ready. I threw the blanket off both of us and immediately let out a scream and covered my eyes.

“What?” Axel asked. “You haven’t seen a man in briefs before?”

“Axel! You and I are sleeping together. The least you could do is wear something decent to bed!” I snapped.

“I’m too tired for this, Hermosa. This is how I sleep. I like sleeping in my briefs.” He said nonchalantly. I removed my hands to glare at him. I can see exactly how large he was and he wasn’t small. I could try not staring but it was right there in front of me not to mention the deep v-lines leading down to his groin.

“Axel, just put on some pants,” I growled before stomping off with my luggage.

“No can do, Hermosa. You either take me like how I am or not take me at all.” He replied.

“You’re not compromising with me!” I shouted from inside the bathroom door. I heard him laughing. I pulled out a crème colored sheer blouse and some high waisted white dress pants. While slipping them on I shouted to him.

“We have one month together. You should compromise with me. Meet me halfway.” I reasoned, taking off my shorts and pulling on the dress pants.

“Fine. George can sleep at the foot of the bed and I’ll wear my briefs half-off.” He replied with finality as if he was the one giving up more than me. Sometimes I wonder how I became his friend. He was a confident and pain in the ass kind of person.

Rolling my eyes at his last part I stopped arguing with him. It was useless and sure wasn’t going to go anywhere. Axel does what Axel wants and besides, I was hungry and dinner sounds really good right now.

Chapter 4

When we arrived in conference room B, the room was filled with many people. I recognized a few—Emery and the man she had her hands wrapped around was probably Ronald, the famous lawyer. I saw uncle Tom, Grandma Vee, aunt Becca, and my parents.

“You look a little sick,” Axel spoke from beside me.

“I don’t like family gatherings.” I gave him a side look.

“You don’t have to worry, Hermosa, I’ll be right next to you.” He encouraged and I felt a little bit better.

But that was stopped short when I saw the bride and groom walk towards us. Emery and I were cousins and grew up together. I want to say that we were close but we weren’t. How do I explain this?

In high school there are cliques and according to our genetics and personality makeup, we are sometimes placed into these cliques. Emery was the popular smart girl that everyone wanted to be. I was a drifter. I don’t remain in one place too long.

“Ryleigh, I am so glad you can make it.” She smiled before turning to her groom to be. “This is my cousin Ryleigh. Ryleigh this is my fiancé, Ronald. His father owns the company that I work for.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Ronald said politely. Ronald was around his mid-thirties judging by his looks. He had light blonde hair that was nicely smoothed back with gel and hazel colored eyes. His smile was perfect. Everything about him screamed impressive and confident.

“I have to say, Emery hasn’t mentioned you to me. I know several of her cousins-”

“Ryleigh lives in southern California. We don’t see each other very much.” Emery explained. After she received her degree and passed the bar, she moved up to upper Manhattan, New York. Ronald nodded in silent understanding.

Needing to change the subject, I hooked my hands through Axel’s arm, “This is my boyfriend, his name is Axel.”

“Boyfriend?” Emery raised an eyebrow in surprise. “Your mother didn’t tell me you were dating.”

I tried not to take offense.

“I like to keep my life private,” I said with a fake smile when inside all I wanted to do was scream and run up to my room and possibly order food to be delivered.

“Well, it’s a pleasure to meet you, Axel. I must say I am very surprised that Ryleigh managed to catch someone like you.”

Oh, fuck me. I want to pummel someone. My hands tightened around Axel’s biceps. He placed a rough hand over mine.

“It is I who is lucky to have found someone like her.” I looked up and saw him staring down at me. The way he looked at me made my heart skipped that spread to my stomach that I can only explain as a butterfly. Why was he looking at me like that? Like I am all he sees in this world.

Ronald clears his throat and broke the connection. I looked at him and saw him smiling sincerely. “Ah, well, we better find a seat and grab some food while it’s hot. If I know my family well, they will be scarfing food down right about now.”

Emery and Ronald walked away. The conference room was set up with several rectangle tables. Most of the seats were taken. A buffet set up was set up against the wall.

“Why aren’t you moving?” Axel questioned, clearly confused as to why I was staring straight ahead.

Biting my lips, I turned to face him, “I want to put on a brave front but I feel…”

Insecure?

Out of place?

Not wanted?

A failure?

Axel must have seen it flicker across my face because he exhaled and wrapped one arm around my shoulder, pulling me into the crook of his side.

“In all the times I have known you, Ryleigh, you have never been anything but strong. You can do this. Don’t let anyone get to you. Now c’mon, let’s feed that stomach of yours cause tonight we are going to-“He winked at me and flashed me a devilish grin.

“In your dreams, Romeo,” I replied and couldn’t help but smile.

Dinner consisted of baked turkey breast, mash potatoes and gravy, biscuits, and green bean casseroles. For dessert, they had strawberry cheesecake. I grabbed a little bit of everything and two slices of cheesecake. Axel took more because he was a bigger man and he had a better metabolism than me.

We walked to sit with my parents. My mother glanced at my plate and then looked up at me with a look in her eyes that I knew very well. Before she could speak her mind though, my father asked Axel a question.

“So, what is it that you do?” My father asked.

“I am a firefighter,” Axel replied honestly.

“Interesting. Although, I admire your line of work, isn’t it dangerous?” My father asked.

“Yes, but helping others is something I enjoy doing,” Axel explained.

My father picked up his wine glass and took a sip before speaking again, “I see. California is a hazardous state when it comes to fires. I believe almost five thousand fires are reported yearly.”

I stopped eating and looked up at my father. What was he getting at? Axel remained silent. His facial expression unreadable.

“Is it something you plan on doing after marriage? Or when you have kids?” My father questioned further.

I set my fork and knife down. I knew where my father was going.

“Dad…”

“I’m just curious.” My father asked. “Do you think it is a suitable job for when you have your own family?”

“What is with all these questions?” I snapped, feeling thoroughly frustrated and angry with everyone. Not even an hour in and I feel like dragging Axel and I out of here.

Axel placed a hand over my fist on the table. I glanced down and back at him.

“It’s alright.” He told me. “Your father is right.”

“What?” I replied disbelievingly.

Axel turned to my father, “Sir, you are absolutely right. This job is a dangerous job. I am risking my life to fight a force that has proven over and over that it can kill but if fighting it means that it will keep my children and wife safe than I will continue to fight it. It is a sacrifice I will make for my family. It is what I will do for anyone.”

I turned back to my father. His jaw ticked slightly. He does it when he is pissed or when he is in deep thought. A quick nod came from my father before he went back to eating. What I would give to read what was running around in my father’s mind.

Axel turned to me and flashed me a smile as if he didn’t just give a life-altering statement a second ago.

“Well, this is lovely.” My mother said with a nervous laugh and picked up her fork again. She also was rendered speechless.

I know where my father went. He didn’t want me to get hurt. He knows me well and although I put on a brave front and toss aside people’s comments about me. Inside, I was insecure and need reassurance. I was a little girl and never been hurt or never been truly hurt before. He wanted to protect me.

I’m glad Axel stood up for himself and not let my parents step all over him. I agree with him a hundred percent. His job is dangerous but in all the years that I have known Axel, he was nothing but persistent and strong. Underneath all those pickup lines and playboy look, he wasn’t a bad person. It was one of the many reasons we became friends. He might tease me but he was always there for me.

Again, I felt a tug in my chest and my heart thumping erratically. I wasn’t familiar with this feeling. It was like a tide that knocks me off my feet.

After dinner, Axel and I made our escape without any idle conversation. I thought we were going to head upstairs but Axel took hold of my hand in his and headed for the main entrance of the hotel.

“Where are we going?” I asked.

“Hermosa, we are in Barcelona. We should be exploring the city as much as we can.” He rebuked.

“It’s late and I just ate two cheesecakes.” I made a point. “Plus, I’m wearing heels because that’s all I brought with me.”

“It will only be briefly. Let’s take a walk around the block.” He urged.

Exhaling in defeat, I allowed him to pull me up to his side and we walked outside together. The air was a little cooler now that the sun has gone down. We walked together in silence down the city streets of Barcelona. It was a few minutes in when I became alarmingly aware that he was still holding my hand and with any passerby, we must look like a couple. I tried pulling my hand back but he glanced down and held on tight.

“We are just holding hands.” He rationalized.

“But they will all think we are a couple.”

He didn’t seem to care. I didn’t fight him. I guess I didn’t really care either. We walked a few more blocks before my feet started hurting. This was why I don’t like heels.

“Can we go back now?” I complained.

He chuckled, “We have only been out for like 20 minutes.”

“My feet hurt,” I whined.

He sighed and let go of my hand. Frowning, I watched him moved to crouch in front of me with his back facing me.

“What are you doing?” I asked.

“Get on my back, Hermosa.“

“Uh no, not going to happen.” I was more than 160 pounds–medically I’m considered obese.

He growled impatiently before grabbing onto my arms and slinging it over his shoulder. He grabbed my thighs lifted me up onto his back. I let out a squeak and closed my eyes, prepared that we will fall at any given second but we didn’t. He carried me like I was nothing.

I placed my chin on his shoulder and tightened my arms around his upper body.

“See?” He said cockily.

I scoffed but sneaked a smile. He could carry me and didn’t seem like he was struggling at all.

“Hermosa, let’s roleplay for a bit.”

“Oh, you are getting kinky now since I allowed you to carry me. I don’t know if we should get to that base yet, babe.” I teased and heard his laughter.

“I think we well on our way there. Let’s see…” He looked straight ahead with a curve to his lips. “On our first date, I saved you from burning our apartment building down.”

I laughed and slapped his chest with my palm playfully, “I didn’t mean to! I just wanted some food.”

“I also cook you dinner every night.” He justified. “I might also add, I have seen you cried—ugly too might I add.”

“Axel!” I warned. “I do not cry ugly.”

He laughed again, “We have watched multiple movies together in our apartments. I even stayed up and watched The Notebook with you.”

“So?” I countered.

“Ok, I’ll take it a step further, I even picked up your tampons at the grocery store.” He vindicated.

“Oh my god! Will you stop it?” I laughed.

He laughed with me. With him, I feel like I can be the real me and nobody will judge me.

“Ok, kidding aside- “He said after we have calmed down. “Seriously, roleplay with me.”

“Aren’t we already?” I asked.

He nodded slowly, “Yeah, I guess you can say that.”

“Then we don’t need to roleplay.” I reasoned with him.

“I beg to differ. We have never kissed before. What if your family and relatives start to question our relationship?” He asked.

He stopped and slowly dropped me back down to my feet. We were halfway back to the hotel now. He turned me around to face him.

“So, what are you saying?” I eyed him suspiciously.

“I’m saying let me kiss you, Hermosa.“

Chapter 5

I laughed at what he said. No way was I going to kiss Axel Rodriguez. He was my friend and we do not kiss friends.

A scowl appeared on his face and then he looked thoroughly frustrated. He ran through his black hair roughly as he does it whenever he was irritated.

“Kiss you?” I said in a bewildered voice before giggling again. “I don’t think anybody cares if we kissed. We sure as hell don’t need to practice.”

His dark brown eyes snapped to mine and glared, “God, you are the most aggravating woman I have ever met.”

I dismissed his angry comment and bent down to remove my heels. Sighing when my toes were freed from it. I held them in one of my hands and looked up at him with a happy smile. I won’t let his sour mood get to me.

“I am not. I’m practical because we don’t need kissing to show that we are a couple.” I explained before walking ahead of him. I heard him sigh and muttered something about clueless before running to catch up to me.

Tomorrow was a rest day. No plans were made from the bride or the groom. They wanted the family and relatives to spend a day exploring the city. My parents will be going to find a place to play court tennis. That leaves Axel and me to decide what we want to do.

Together we walked in silence back down the sidewalk to the hotel. It gave me a little bit of time to look at the city. Music can be heard distinctly. The soft Mediterranean sunset cast a warm glow over the city.

Axel and I made it back to the hotel in record time. My father was walking to the bar in the hotel when he caught sight of us. He lifted a hand to stop us.

“Ah, I am glad to see you two here.” My dad said but he was looking at Axel when he said it. “I was about to go the bar for a few drinks. How about you come along with me. We can talk man to man.”

My eyes widening slightly, I glance between dad and Axel. Axel nodded his response and turned to me.

“What are you doing?” I asked as I pulled him away from my father.

“Going to have drinks with your dad.” He answered in an obvious tone.

Glaring I poked him in the chest, “I am not coming down to get you, Axel Damien Rodriguez. You know you don’t take alcohol very well.”

“I’m fine.” He literally snapped at me and I can see he was still irritated with me.

Huffing, I squared my shoulder and put on a determined face, “Fine. Go then.”

He turned and walked away with my father towards the bar. I huffed and growled angrily like an upset woman before stomping barefoot upstairs. I made it to the hotel room and got undress. I changed into plaited red and black pajama pants and into a white tank top before crawling into bed with George.

Axel wasn’t much of a drinker. He does it on rare occasions and often I find him coming home and knocking on my apartment door. If he wanted to drink even though he knows his alcohol tolerance level is weak then I won’t stop him.

I rested my head on the pillow but after laying down and trying to go to sleep I couldn’t. Huffing I pounded my pillow hard to fluff it and laid back down. George flopped and rolled away from me as if he can sense my frustration with Axel.

I counted to a hundred in my head. I even tried singing myself to sleep. Almost an hour has gone by and I was becoming thoroughly upset. I couldn’t stop worrying if the man will get lost on the streets or end up in someone else’s hotel room and then I started imagining him being arrested.

“Oh, for all that it’s worth!” I snarled like the Grinch on Christmas Eve and picked up George to glare at him. “We will not go downstairs to check on him.”

~ ~ ~

Ten minutes later, I was on the elevator ride down to the ground floor.

I followed the direction they had went earlier and heard loud music and laughter coming from that area. I wandered in and a few people stopped to look at me. My eyes wandered the place until I found them sitting by the counter and laughing together as if they were old friends.

I walked over to them and when my dad saw me he giggled like a school girl and pointed with his index finger.

“Looks like your woman came down.” He snickered.

I rolled my eyes and looked over at Axel who had turned in his seat to look at me. He flashed me a million dollar smile but his eyes were half closed.

“Well if it isn’t the woman who wouldn’t kiss me.” He pouted, and his words slurred together.

“It still amazes me how stupid men can be,” I muttered before walking up to him. I slipped an arm around his waist and the other to hook one of his arms over my shoulders.

“C’mon. Let’s go.” I told him.

“But I still want to drink.” He whined.

“Ryleigh, let the man be the man.” My dad tried to scold me. I turned around to look at him.

“I’m sending mom down to get you.” I snapped.

His back straightened but he swayed slightly, “Yes, sir!”

“Good night, Mr. Friedman. I had a great time.” Axel waved his hands and smile like a two-year-old. When did these two become best buds?

I went back to carrying Axel out of the bar and towards the elevator. It wasn’t easy, he is a very tall man and packed a ton of muscle on him. I groaned when we finally got into one and let him fall against the elevator wall while I tried to catch my breath.

“You should have listened to me. We both know you can’t drink.” I muttered bitterly.

He chuckled, ”Hermosa, I did it because I was angry at you.”

“Obviously.” I huffed. The elevator opened, and I moved to hold him upright again. Together we walked to our room, I struggled with holding him up and putting the key card in.

Eventually, I got the door open, went inside with him, closed the door, and then walking to the bed. He sat on the edge of the bed with his hands in his lap. I picked up the phone and dial my mother’s number. I told her where dad was before hanging up.

Sighing, I tossed the phone on the bed and then moved to help him up from the bed.

“C’mon, let’s brush that mouth of yours. We don’t want beer breath.” I muttered.

He chuckled and allowed me to carry him to the bathroom. I put some toothpaste on his toothbrush before handing it to him. He had some trouble at first but was able to brush his teeth.

Leaning against the counter I watched him with my arms crossed. He was looking at me while brushing his teeth.

“Why did you do it?” I asked.

He bent down and rinsed out the toothpaste before moving to stand in front of me. His hands braced against the counter on my sides. He leaned down so close that if he moved another inch, his nose will brush up against mine. I used my hands to press against his chest to stop him from coming any closer but I couldn’t help but notice his hard muscular chest and the urge to explore it with my hands.

“Why won’t you kiss me?” He retorted.

I opened my mouth and then closed it again. I couldn’t understand why he wants us to kiss. Friends don’t kiss.

“Y-you’re my friend,” I whispered. I felt his hands moved from the counter to grab me around my hips then he slowly moved his way up my sides. Heat travels through my body and straight to my core. I bit my lips to stop a reaction.

His hooded eyes were on my lips and suddenly the air became very thin.

“Axel…” I whispered softly.

“Kiss me, Ryleigh.” He ordered in a low husky voice.

“W-we shou-”

“Should.” He leaned down another fraction. I gulped, feeling my heart beat faster with each second. My hands were still firmly on his chest. The room was suddenly getting hot or it might just me running out of the air. I can’t seem to decide which one is it with Axel being so close.

“Kiss me, Ryleigh.” He repeated.

“Axel…” I breathed.

“Or are you afraid that you might feel something that you shouldn’t?” He asked.

It amazed me that just a few minutes ago he was completely drunk but now he was acting almost completely sober. My lips parted nervously and his eyes flicker to that small little action.

“If you truly are immune to my charms, then kissing me won’t affect you at all.” He reasoned.

I can do this. It was just kissing. I mean, it can’t hurt. I lifted my chin slightly and moved in. He saw that I have conceded. He leaned forward and finish that last half inch and our lips met. One of his hands snaked up to cup my cheek, bringing me closer. My breath hitched in my throat.

His lips were soft and hot. The way he brought my lower lips in between his, sucking in and tugging on it sent jolting fireworks to my core. My fingers curled around his shirt for sanity. He groaned and slipped his tongue in-invading the warm cave of my mouth, playing and intertwining with my tongue.

I heard him groan with pleasure. His hands moved down my backside, grabbing onto my butt and hoisting me up and onto the counter. I should stop it but the way he moved his mouth and his tongue it was addicting. I couldn’t get enough. His hands moved from my hips down to my legs. He lifted them up and urge me to wrap it around his waist.

When I felt his sudden hard member pressed against my core, it was then I woke up and pulled back.

NO.

His lips were swollen from the kiss and his dark brown eyes were almost smoldering black-heated with desire.

I gave a shaky laugh, “There. I did it. No effect at all.”

I pushed him away from me and hopped down from the counter. My legs shook, and I felt like my core was crying out wanting more contact. I hurried out of the bathroom and into the bedroom.

“You should take a shower…uh…a cold one,” I mumbled before crawling into bed. My cheeks were flaming up and my heart was still racing in my chest. My body was screaming for something but even I couldn’t understand.

I moved George between us again and scooted all the way to the edge of the bed to give Axel and I enough room. I fell asleep before he came out of the bathroom.

The next morning, I woke up feeling extremely comfortable. I sighed and snuggled deeper into the bed, but again, realization hits and I snapped up, no longer sleepy. I looked down at Axel who had thrown George to the foot of the bed and pulled me back to the center of the bed where he had an arm wrapped around me. AGAIN!

I turned around to give him a piece of my mind but remembered our heated kiss last night. Immediately, heat crawled back up my cheeks and I made a dash for the bathroom before he was awake.

I closed the door quietly and leaned against it.

I’m immune to him. I shouldn’t feel this way…

Chapter 6

Knock…Knock.

“Ryleigh?” Axel’s husky sleepy voice came on the other side of the door.

My eyeliner brush slipped while I was putting it on. A huge eyeliner line ran past my eyes and to my temple. I muttered a curse and quickly moved to grab some tissues.

“Are you okay?” He asked.

My makeup bag fell all over the marble floor in my attempts to quickly wipe off the eyeliner. This was just great. I didn’t expect him to be up until after I left the room. My heart was being rapidly in my chest.

“What’s going on in there?” He sounded concern. “Did you drop something?”

“I’m fine.” I piped back before bending down to pick up my makeup but ended up hitting my head on the counter.

“Ouch!” My hand immediately shot up to touch my forehead. I hope it doesn’t swell up into a bump.

“I think I need to come in there,” Axel said.

Gritting my teeth, I shoved my makeups back into my makeup bag, “I’m great! Perfectly fine.”

It came out sarcastic and irritated. He went quiet for a while and I thought he had left. I stopped picking my makeups and listened until he spoke up again.

“Are you doing naughty things in there?” He asked.

“What?” I shouted at him. How can he say that? Oh my god, my face was heating up. I swear I look like a bruised tomato right now.

He laughed, “I’m kidding. Hurry up so I can use the bathroom.”

Quickly, I fixed my makeup and grabbed a bathrobe to wrap around me, but I thought one wasn’t good enough to cover. So, I grabbed a second and wrapped around me.

I opened the door and saw him leaning on the other side of the wall with his arms crossed. He looked up when he saw me. My eyes roamed down his disheveled bed ridden hair and his naked muscular torso and down to the dark grey sweats he had on.

“Did you want me to take off the sweats, so you can have a better look?” He asked.

Oh Jesus, please open the gates and let me in.

“No.” I managed to say affirmatively. Feeling a little more confident that it didn’t come out as weak as I was feeling in my knees, I lifted my chin and clutch my makeup bag to my chest as I turned and walked out of the bathroom.

When he was inside, I quickly discarded the robes and pulled on a honey-colored high waisted knit skirt and white cropped t-shirt to go over. I was in the middle of figuring if I should tie my hair up into a ponytail or leave it down to cover my neck and back fat. Axel stepped out of the bathroom and I can smell his aftershave when he walked back to find himself something to wear.

He pulled on a pair of straight legged khakis and bent down to pick up his plain white t-shirt. I turned back to fixing my hair but stopped when I noticed that he had turned to face me while pulling on his t-shirt. The way he was looking at me, it was making my stomach do flips like it was in the Olympics.

“What?” I asked.

“You should leave your hair up.” He said.

“What? Why?” I asked.

He pulled on his shirt all the way before walking towards me. Slowly he took my hair into his hands began pulling it into a loose bun. I watched him work his magic and he didn’t do so bad. I look pretty darn good.

“Nieces. When they ask you so much, you end up learning how to tie girls hair.” He smirked. I thought he will walk away but he remained behind me. He was so close I can feel the brush of his pants against the thinly knit skirt I was wearing. His body heat was literally seeping into my skin.

I was the first one to break our eye contact, stepping forward I gave us a little bit more room before stepping around him to go grab my purse.

“So, where are we heading?” I asked, changing the air.

“Your dad told me yesterday that they will be having breakfast again down in conference room B. Maybe we should head down there, Hermosa. Eat our breakfast and then head out to explore.” He shrugged and shoved his hands into his pocket.

We got to the elevator, but I forgot my cell phone. Cursing under my breath, I told him to wait here while I went back to the hotel room.

When I returned, he was talking to some foreign girls in Spanish. They were laughing and giggling at him. I felt a pang in my chest, but I shoved it aside and walked up to them.

“Anda, ayuda a tu compadre, por favor.” He flashed them a to-die-for smirk. He glanced my way when he saw me from his peripheral vision. The girls giggled again and a few nodded their heads.

“Gracias, chicas.” He said, and I wondered why he was thanking them.

“I see you made friends.” I tried not to sound so bitter but seeing this made me remember that Axel was a playboy and yesterday meant nothing to him. He was just teasing and using me.

“These girls don’t believe me. They think I am not taken. Lo siento, no estoy disponible.” He jabbed a thumb in their direction before winking at them. I heard the girls made a few ‘aww’ sounds in response to whatever he said in Spanish.

He then turned to me and slipped an arm around my waist, pulling me into his side. He bent down and ran his nose and lips along my cheek and to my ear. A shiver ran through my body and I moved closer to him without thinking.

Immediately, I closed my eyes against the sensual feel of lips on skin. It felt good to have him touch me and feel the grazing of his lips. He turned me some more until I was pulled flush against him. His lips moved to the crook of my neck and there he did something that had my knees wobbling. He sucked on a sensitive spot, I closed my eyes tightly and held onto his body. It felt amazing—the feel of his lips, his breath, and tongue on my skin. He sucked and kissed that part of my neck like a vampire sucking blood. The worse part was I made no move to stop him. I couldn’t, and I didn’t even understand why.

When he pulled back, his eyes dropped down to my neck before a satisfied smile appeared on his face. I looked at him confused before glancing to where the girls were. They were gone.

We made our way down the elevator and to the conference room. To my surprise, Brandon was here. When he saw me, his eyes lit up before it followed over to Axel and he threw Axel a glare.

“Your brother looks about ready to murder me,” Axel mentioned. He has seen pictures of my brother in my apartment before.

My smile slipped a little when I saw that Brandon was looking at the part of my neck that Axel spent time sucking. Did he see us in the hallway?

Brandon marched over to us with a scowl on his face. His jaw clenched in silent anger. When he reached our side, he pointed at my neck.

“What the hell is that?” He pointed at my neck.

Oh no…no he didn’t. I turned to Axel who was smirking knowingly. I wanted to strangle him. He gave me a hickey and I was too into it that I didn’t even realize.

My hand slapped over the evidence, “Nothing.”

Brandon scoffed, “I’m not stupid, Ry. It’s the fucker who did it, didn’t he?”

Brandon shoved Axel. Axel’s face hardened, and he took a step forward. I stepped in between the two Alpha males, placing my hand on Brandon’s chest and using my back to push Axel away.

“You asshole better not be using her. I swear to god, I’ll fucking hunt you down and murder you myself.” Brandon threatened, his brotherly protective instinct kicking in like always.

“Brandon! It’s fine! Axel is not using me.” I tried to reason and trying at the same time not to cause a scene. “Remember where we are guys. This is a wedding.”

Brandon’s jaw worked before he threw another glare at Axel and then back at me. Instantly, his facial expression softened.

“It’s nice to see you again, Ry.” Brandon smiled. He was my big brother and protected me all the times my mother had attacked me about my weight. He was always there until he moved away. I saw him on occasions, but it became less and less when his business boomed. Last I spoke with him, he was traveling overseas to manage a company over there.

I hugged him tightly, “I’m so happy you’re here. I thought I would have to suffer through this alone.”

He chuckled, “Yea, well, mom wouldn’t stop calling me.”

Well, at least I wasn’t the only one our mother was pestering. He pulled back ran a hand through his brown hair and glanced behind him.

“Hey, so, what do you have planned today?” He asked.

“Axel and I were just going to go do some exploring around the city,” I told him. I felt Axel’s hand slip into mine sneakily.

“Well I brought someone I want you to meet, maybe we can hang out after breakfast together.” He offered.

“Someone?” I arched an eyebrow.

He laughed, “It’s not what you think. She’s my secretary but a good friend too.”

I gave him a disbelieving look and he laughed innocently, “I’m serious, she’s nothing more than a friend.”

“That’s what they always say.” I glanced behind him to see who he was looking at just a minute ago. A tall redhead stood by the bacon, picking up several pieces and putting it on her plate.

“You know what? I like her. Anybody who likes bacon, I like.” I said with a smile. Brandon laughed in amusement and Axel had a smile on while shaking his head at me.

Chapter 7

My brother and his secretary got pulled away at the last minute for an unexpected meeting. That left me alone with Axel again. After breakfast, Axel and I were driving a rental car down Barcelona’s street. I’m reading a pamphlet that was given to us by the check-in desk crew back at the hotel.

My eyes scanning the content on what we should do for today. There are popular walking streets, cooking classes, bike tours, even dancing classes.

“We should find time to go take some cooking classes,” I mentioned, not looking up from the pamphlet.

Axel laughed, “I don’t think that’s a good idea. You and cooking don’t go well.”

My lips pursed and I threw him a good glower. He smirked before agreeing, “Alright, we can go but I do the cooking.”

“As long as I get to eat,” I agreed, my puckering lips turning into a sweet smile as I bat my eyelashes.

He scoffed in disbelief, “All the hard work and the cook doesn’t even get a kiss.”

Immediately, I remembered our heated kiss from last night. I felt heat crawl up my neck and to my cheeks.

When will I get over this?

“The cook is my best friend.”

“And the boyfriend,” He added.

It was my turn to laugh, “You forgot ‘pretend’.”

I picked up the next pamphlet and it showed a picture of a beach but with either half naked or fully naked people. I heard Axel whistle next to me.

“We should go there,” He said.

“No way are we heading to a nudist beach,” I told him, and to let him know I was serious I sat the pamphlet down and picked up another one.

“Oh!” I squealed shaking the pamphlet excitedly, “This! We should go here.”

I showed him the pamphlet, he glanced at it briefly before keeping his eyes on the road.

“Seriously, Hermosa? Parc del Laberint d’Horta? A maze?” He lifted an eyebrow.

“Oh c’mon it will be fun! I have never been to one. Don’t you want to know to know how it is like to get lost?” I said with excitement before typing the address into my phone GPS.

“It isn’t the first thing I thought we should do but this is you we are talking about.” He responded.

“What do you mean?” I asked, glancing at him.

H glanced my way before shrugging, “You’re clueless.”

I scoffed, “Well, I am a little offended. I didn’t even get a chance to defend myself.”

He chuckled, “Alright, fine. If a guy approaches you and says you are beautiful, what do say?”

“Do you have glasses on?”

He laughed some more, shaking his head while laughing.

I scoffed again, “No right man in their spanking mind will walk up to a girl like me and say I am beautiful.”

He clicked his tongue and gone was his amusement, “You are clueless.”

I gave him a glower before turning in my seat to look out the window. What exactly did he mean?

°°°°°°

Thirty minutes later and we found the place. Horta’s Labyrinth Park was Barcelona’s oldest conserved garden. The garden is built on an estate. I couldn’t hide the excitement, taking hold of Axel’s hand I rushed him to the entrance.

The park has numerous kinds of trees & hedges surrounding it which gave it a secluded feel. Axel and I walked by the domestic garden. It was absolutely beautiful and very keenly kept.

“It’s beautiful,” I uttered, eyeing everything all at once. My eyes couldn’t stop on one scenery.

The maze sat in the center of the park, but Axel and I decided to look at the surrounding gardens first. There were many beautiful sculptures all over the park. When we made it to the maze, I turned to him with a bright, excited gleam.

“Let’s play a game,” I told him.

He arched an eyebrow in question, “What kind of game?”

“Let’s each take one entrance of the maze and see who is the first to find the other person,“I explained.

He gave me a bored look, “No.”

“Axel! This will be fun.” I insisted.

“I think the beach would have been more fun.” He retorted before turning away with a sigh.

“We are not going to go so you can see naked people.” I grabbed onto both of his hands and shook them as I pleaded, “C’mon, play with me.”

His eyes flickered back to me for a moment and I watched those dark chocolate brown eyes transform into a wicked glint. The corner of his lip lifted into a smirk.

“Ok, if I play, what’s in it for me? Do I get a prize?” He asked.

I narrowed my eyes suspiciously, “What do you mean?”

“Hermosa, if I find you first, what do I get in return?” He reworded his question, leaning in closer to me. I stumbled slightly back.

I let go of his hand and crossed my arms.

“What do you want?” I asked.

His eyes looked me over and I felt somewhat violated as he stripped me naked with his eyes.

“I will tell you when I beat you.”

We started on different ends. At first, it seemed simple. Really! I swear I was making good turns and decisions but then I started to worry. Seriously, everything looked the same.

It felt like I have been in here for an hour at least. I’m even pretty sure Axel got there before me.

After a few wrong turns, I was starting to get worried but a few minutes later, Axel appeared from behind a hedge. I ran to him the second I saw him.

“I am so glad to see you!” I exclaimed.

“You got lost, didn’t you?”

“No…not really,” I mumbled guiltily.

He laughed and I punched him in the chest.

“It’s not funny. How did you find me so easily?” I questioned.

“I’m a firefighter. I should know how to locate someone.” He replied before turning me to face him.

“So for the prize..”

“Wait a minute-”

He placed a hand over my mouth to shush me.

“I’m talking here.” His dark chocolate eyes sparkled with mischief and victory.

“This is not fair.” It came out muffled.

“George goes back into the suitcase.” He announced before dropping his hand from my mouth.

“This isn’t fun anymore.” My lips pursed. I am completely unhappy with the turnout.

“Should have known who you were playing against.”

After the maze, he and I stopped by a local café and ate there before heading back to the hotel. It was around dinner time when we arrived back home. On our way up to our room though, we were stopped by my mother.

“Ryleigh! There you are! I have been knocking on your door for the last fifteen minutes.” My mother huffed in irritation.

“Well, why did you knock for fifteen minutes? Why didn’t you just stop? Wouldn’t it be easier to just wait for me to come to find you?”

“Like you will ever come looking for me.”

Axel coughed a laugh and turned away, “I will see you upstairs, Hermosa.”

I watched him leave me alone with my dear mother. She looked at Axel before turning to me. She shook her head and rolled her eyes.

“Your father adores your boyfriend. He said that Axel was a real man.” Her mother rolled her eyes for the second time. “If you ask me, I would prefer someone with a higher taste and a well-paying job. I mean seriously, Ryleigh-”

“Mom! Stop. I’m not going to go through this with you.”

“Don’t you take that tone with me, young lady. I am still your mother.” She glared in warning.

“Then stop interfering in my life. Can’t you be happy for once for what I do?”

She sighed, “It’s not that I don’t love you, Ryleigh. You know very well I do. I just wish that you will listen more and do the things that I ask of you. I mean, I met this awesome owner of a realtor agency that is a close friend of Ronald. He is an absolute dear—well-mannered and all. I really think you should meet him.”

“No,” I said through clenched teeth.

“Oh for the love of-”

“Mom, I’m tired. I am going to my-”

“Ryleigh, I am not done talking to you.” She snapped, and I closed my eyes and counted to ten.

“Emery just sent word that tomorrow we will be visiting the venue. Everyone will be going.”

“Do I have to? Can’t I just—I don’t know—be there when the wedding starts?” I asked, feeling like it was useless for me to go.

“Yes, you will be going, and I would also like to introduce you to Maximillian. He is the realtor owner.” My mother waved her hand in the air.

“No,” I said again.

“Ryleigh, really- ”

“You know what, mom? I think my boyfriend is calling me. I have to go.” I growled before stomping off. I heard her protest but didn’t stop.

When I got to the elevator I was close to tears. I had enough of her trying to control my life, telling me what to do. I hate the fact that she doesn’t acknowledge Axel as a person. I hate how she is constantly tossing me at men I don’t even know. I am not an object. It hurt but I was more pissed off than hurt.

I won’t let her try to control my life anymore. I’m taking my life back into my hands. Her words will not affect me any longer. I am going to do what I want, and I don’t care what the hell anyone thinks.

When I got upstairs and into my room, I slammed the door shut. I walked to the bed and sat down at the end. Still fuming over the fact that my mother had the audacity to try to hook me up with another man. What the hell is wrong with Axel?

The bathroom door opened, and Axel stepped out with a towel wrapped around his waist like he always does back home. One look at me and he knew I was pissed.

“What did she do?” He asked.

“Not right now, Axel,” I responded, still feeling infuriated with her. I can feel the sting of tears coming on. I blinked them back furiously. He didn’t listen and walked over to sit next to me in wearing nothing but a white hotel towel.

“Don’t let her get to you, Hermosa. You are an amazing person.” He told me softly.

I shook my head and the tears were winning. I stood up before he could see them.

“I need space,” I mumbled before storming out of the hotel room. I heard him shouting for me wait but I left anyway.

I got back into the elevator and made it down to the ground floor. There, I figured I could go for a walk to get rid of the hate that was growing inside my heart, but I knew that won’t help quick enough. So, I did the next thing I knew that will help.

I went to the bar.

Chapter 8

Thirty minutes later, I have down six shots of tequila and two shots of vodka. I didn’t feel any better. In fact, I cried. I sobbed like a whale to the bartender. He had to hand me a napkin to wipe my nose. Occasionally coming over to wipe my space and moving the bottle of vodka away from me, inch by inch.

“It’s just not fair. Why can’t she see that I can’t be what she wants to be?” I wailed. The bartender gave me an uneasy look.

“Why can’t she accept me?” I wiped my tears from my cheek and blew my nose before drinking another shot.

I hiccup before glaring at the glass shot before me, “I remember when I was five and overweight. She made me eat vegetables.”

I looked up at the bartender. “Vegetables. Can you believe it?”

And then in a small sad voice, “I love cake. It’s my best friend.”

“Hermosa, I’ve been looking all over for you.” Axel’s voice came to my left. I whipped my head around to look at him.

He was dressed in blue Nike athletic shorts and a black sleeveless tank.

“Funny…you were naked when I last saw you.” I slurred.

He sighed and moved to sit in the stool next to mine, I rested my head on his shoulder and he wrapped an arm around me to steady me.

“Why are you upset?” He asked softly.

I sniffled, again, remembering my mother and my conversation earlier.

“She just doesn’t get me. I am her daughter, but it feels like we aren’t even related.” My voice cracked.

I felt his lips brush the top of my head, “You are perfect, Ryleigh. I mean it. Don’t let her get to you.”

“If I am so perfect, then why is that I haven’t had a boyfriend?” I asked in a sad voice while turning to look up at him.

“Because you’re clueless.” He rolled his eyes. “Now, c’mon. Enough drinking. Let’s get you back upstairs.”

It was a lot easier for him to carry me out of the bar than I did with him. It didn’t take long before we made it to the hotel room. He dropped me on the bed and I moaned into the sheets, need to sleep. I started to crawl to the middle, but he wrapped an arm around my waist.

“Oh no, you don’t. You are going to take a shower.” He scolded.

“Why?” I wailed in a very unladylike voice.

“Because like you, I do not like to smell alcohol while sleeping.” He responded before lifting me up and carrying me to the bathroom.

“Ugh! You’re so mean!” I pouted. “I thought we are best friends.”

He exhaled impatiently, “We are.”

“Then why won’t you leave me alone? Why do you keep touching me?” I glared at him as he sat me down on the toilet cover.

He looked me up and down, “Do you need help in taking off your clothes or should I help you?”

I threw him another angry glare, “I am not incompetent. I am a queen at taking off clothes.”

I stood up and began stripping off my shirt just to show him how good I was, but it got stuck. I lost my balance and started tipping with my head stuck in my shirt. Before I can hit anything though, I felt his arms around my waist again.

“Alright, you can’t do it yourself.” He growled.

“That’s ridiculous,” I said, clearly offended while frowning underneath my shirt.

He laughed, “Let me help you.”

“You’ll see me naked.” I gasped but allowed him to take off my shirt.

“Don’t look, Axel. Keep your eyes closed.” I slurred. Again, he huffed with annoyance. I glanced at him and saw his eyes were closed as he reached for my high waisted knit skirt. His fingers grazed my skin and it left a burning trail. My body responded immediately, and I gasped.

Once he helped me take off my clothes and into the shower. He turned his back allowed me to wash. The cool running water helped in getting me slightly sober. I washed thoroughly before stepping out and grabbing a towel. I wrapped it around myself.

“Ta-Da. All done.” I giggled.

He turned around to look me over. His eyes darkening each second, he spent staring at me and I felt my body burn underneath his gaze.

After a minute, he helped me out of the bathroom and sat me down on the end of the bed. He grabbed one of his t-shirts and helped me into it. Then shuffled through my luggage.

“What are you looking for?” I asked.

“Underwear.”

Just the thought of him touching my undergarments sent heat crawling up my cheeks. I watched him crouching on the floor and shuffling through my clothes.

Axel was tall and muscular-extremely attractive with those tattoos, tan skin, and his disheveled black hair. He’s not someone my mother wants me to be with but just that thought has me wanting to be with Axel. Axel has never hurt me.

He stood up with a pair of black lace panties in his hand. He walked over and knelt on the ground, “Lift up your feet, Hermosa.“

I lifted my feet obediently and allowed him to slip it up my legs and to my thighs. His fingers grazing my skin in a heated trail all the way up. I had to fight back a moan and wetness pooled between my legs.

“Axel, you’re a good friend,” I told him before flopping back. I tried to pull the damn garment up but apparently, I was incapable now. I huffed and twisted back and forth in bed.

He sighed and slapped my hands away. He crawled onto the bed and took hold of the sides of my lace panties, pulling them up.

I mumbled a thank you before crawling to my side of the bed. A moment later, he lifted my body and tucked me underneath the comforter. I sighed and snuggled into the sheets. I felt him crawl into his side and pulled me up close to his body.

This time, I didn’t even bother fighting him off. I allowed him to hold me because I needed him. His naked chest was pressed warmly to my back as he spooned me. I didn’t even care if George was sleeping at the end of the bed.

~ ~ ~

I woke up to Axel’s lips skimming my jawline and neck. Moaning I ran my hand through his hair. He moved from the side of the bed to settle between my legs. His hard arousal pressing against my thin lace panties.

An ache develops from that touch and I rocked my hips for more.

His rough hands grabbed a hold of my thighs and pressed me down while he ground his hard member against me.

“Mmm…” I moaned.

Axel’s hand slips higher and underneath my shirt. It snuck its way up my side and over my stomach to grab one of my breasts. The sensation sent a shock through my body and to my core.

Arching my back, I begged for more. As if he knew exactly what I asked for he lifted my shirt higher to expose my breasts. His mouth hungrily latching onto the small pink bud. If I thought his hands were magical, his mouth was pure ecstasy.

“Oh, Axel.” I moaned and tugged at his hair.

“Tell me what you want, Ryleigh.” He ordered huskily.

“Axel…” I couldn’t get the words out. It felt so damn good.

“What do you want?” His voice became more impatient.

“Axel…” He bit my nipple gently.

“Ryleigh!” Axel growled.

My eyes snapped open.

Everything hit me at once. The hangover, it was a dream, and an impatient Axel glaring at me besides the bed.

“It is morning?” I groaned and turned into the pillow. The sun was hurting my eyes.

“Ugh! The sun! Close the shades.” I begged.

I heard Axel walking to the window and the shades closing.

“My head hurts.” I groaned and turned to lay on my back. One hand over my forehead.

“Well, that is usually the case for someone who was as drunk as you last night.” He replied before sitting on the edge of the bed and handing me some pain reliever pills and a cup of water.

I took the pills without argument before collapsing on the bed again.

“I am sorry. I was not myself yesterday.” I mumbled.

“Your mom came by.” He mentioned.

My eyes snapped open to look at him

“I told her you weren’t feeling well.” He answered my unspoken question.

“What was her reaction?” I asked.

“She asked if you were faking to get out of going to see the venue.” He replied.

I scoffed and snuggled into the warm inviting bed. I can still feel Axel’s lips on my skin. It felt so real. I can’t deny how turned on I am right now. It didn’t help that he was sitting so close, dressed in nothing but a pair of jeans.

“Did they leave already?” I asked.

“Yes, but she told me to tell you, that you better be at the venue in two hours or there will be big trouble.”

I groaned into the sheets, “I hate my life.”

Chapter 9

When we arrived at the wedding venue it was magnificent with its cultural and architectural building. The landscape of the villa was crisp and clean with an outside pool. The environment was warm and inviting. When we entered inside, it was even more breathtaking than outside. It will be where we will be staying a week before the wedding. Again, all expenses paid for by my dear lovely cousin Emery and Ronald.

“Are you sure your mom won’t freak out with you dressed like that?” Axel asked for the second time.

A broad smile appeared on my face because I don’t give a fuck what she thinks. I was dressed in Axel’s t-shirt and a pair of black leggings I brought with me. My hair was tied into a messy bun.

Pushing my sunglasses up the bridge of my nose I answered him, “She will be pissed off but I don’t give a fuck.”

Axel smirked, “I didn’t realize you had a rebellious streak.”

“I tolerate her because she’s my mother but I know when she passed the line,” I told him. “For today, I’m doing what I want.”

I forgot to mention, I stopped by the gift shop in the hotel and bought myself shoes. My mother will be livid.

When we reached the pool area, everyone was there drinking wine and laughing in their own little group. My mother was talking to Aunt Carol but when she saw me, her eyes narrowed to slits.

Immediately, she made her way towards me. Ronald came to pull Axel away from me. So, I was again alone.

“What the hell are you wearing?” My mother barely swears. She only does it when she was extremely pissed off.

She still kept a fake smile on her face as she hissed me that question.

“I thought I told you-”

“Yes, but I wasn’t feeling so well and you asked me to come anyway. I’m going to wear something comfortable and I don’t care what anyone thinks.” I interrupted her, looking her square in the eyes.

“If you think to embarrass me in front of everyone, you better consider it again. I will not let my only daughter look like a fool.” She snapped.

“Look around you, mom. Nobody cares. Everyone is so busy looking at this place and sucking up to the bride and groom they don’t give a fuck what I wear.” Her and I both took a quick glance. She straightened her shoulder prepared to win this fight but before she could say anything a man appeared in our periapical vision. We both turned to him. My mom didn’t waste a second to change her facade.

“Mrs. Friedman, this must be your daughter.” His thick English brogue interrupted our mini argument.

“Yes, “My mother glanced at me. ” this is Ryleigh.”

“It is a pleasure to finally meet you. My name is Maximilian but you can call me Max.” He put a hand out for me to shake. My mother kept a plastered fake smile on her face as she pinched my behind to be nice.

I shook his hand.

“Nice to meet you,” I muttered.

“Your mother tells me you are a librarian.” He asked.

I nodded, “I enjoy the quiet ambiance.”

Maximilian’s hair looks soft to the touch. Its light brown lock shined underneath the sun. He had a nice tan going. He was handsome but nothing compared to Axel.

He smirked, “Did you get a chance to taste the wine here?”

It was an invitation to join him. Again my mother pinched my butt. I clenched my teeth in irritation. I took one small step away before answering.

“No, I have not but I have to find someone. I will be right back.” I gave him the best apologetic smile I could before slipping away.

I went in search of Axel and found him next to Emery and Ronald. He was talking to another woman who could very well look like a Victoria Secret model. Her tan skin and thick long black hair. She had on a creme colored form-fitting dress that reached her knee. I, on the other hand, had mid-length dry brown hair and skin so pale no one would guess I lived in southern California.

Axel had on a smile. They were speaking in Spanish and laughing. The woman eyes were bright and completely eyeballing him. Something inside of me twist and I felt jealousy.

“Si, vivo en el sur de California.” Axel grinned and the woman moved to touch his arms. She said something back in Spanish.

“Lo hago cuando puedo pero entre el trabajo y Ryleigh, apenas tengo tiempo.” He answered her.

Feeling like a fifth wheel, I walked to the other side of the pool. A waiter came by and I took two glasses of wine. He glanced at me weirdly before moving on.

Sitting in a lounge chair, I downed one wine glass as I started at Axel and the other three. Bitterness crawled and ate at my inside. I hated that feeling and so I drowned it out with shooting down another glass of wine.

Another waiter came and I took another glass from him.

I’m completely puzzled. Axel wasn’t mine but why was I behaving as if he was. It irked me that he was speaking to another woman.

His eyes scanned the area. I saw his eyes land on my mother before he frowned and continue looking for something. He excused himself from the group and started walking around the pool.

He was dressed a little bit better than me. In black dress pants, clean leather shoes and a white dress shirt that was unbuttoned at the top.

I sipped my wine and when his eyes found me he walked over.

“Finally, decided to find me,” I muttered bitterly.

“I thought you were with your mom but when I looked and saw you weren’t I came looking for you.” He replied, standing before me with his hands in his pockets.

“Well, thanks for the added backup.” Still feeling angry at seeing him with another woman.

“What’s wrong?” He asked. He looked confused.

“Nothing.” I bit back before lifting the glass of wine to my lips but he stopped me.

“Is that really a good idea, Hermosa?” He asked. “You remember last night right.”

I huffed before getting out of my seat. I started walking away but he grabbed onto only my elbow.

“Something is bothering you and I know it. I can see it burning in your eyes, Ryleigh.” He said.

I huffed again, “It’s fine.”

“Tell me. I can’t help you if you won’t speak to me.” He insisted, pulling me back to face him. He grabbed onto both of my arms and lower his eyes to meet mine.

“It’s nothing.”

“My mama raised me right. She told me when a woman says its nothing, it is never nothing. Now tell me what’s on your mind.”

“Ugh! I don’t want to talk about it.” I tried to wiggle out of his arms. He pulled me closer and wrapped his arms around me.

“Axel!” I snapped.

“Nope, if you are not telling me, I am perfectly fine keeping you in my arms.” He protested.

“God, why don’t you go back and talk to that woman again.” I bit out.

For a moment he looked confused but then he grinned, like a happy grin.

“Are you jealous?” He was happy.

“Oh, you think this is funny,” I said in an irritated tone.

“Actually, I do. I like it when you are jealous.” He smirked. “Guess you aren’t so immune to my charms after all.”

I glared at him, “I get it. I’m not like that girl. She’s pretty when I don’t even compare to her. I have to remind myself that you and I aren’t dating for real. That you will always be the hot-I-can-get-anybody kind of guy.”

“Seriously?” Now it was his turn to sound angry. “Why are you being like this?”

“Forget it.” I shook my head. I felt stupid.

“No sabes lo hermosa que eres.” He said in an angered tone.

I don’t know what he said angrily in Spanish but I heard Hermosa so it must be about me. One thing about Axel is when he gets angry he speaks in his native language a lot.

I sighed, “Whatever. Do what you want.”

“Tu. Te quiero a ti pero ni siquiera puedes verlo.”

He grabbed me by my cheeks and pulled me in for a kiss. His lips smashing over mine in an angry fit. It surprised me so much that my lips parted on their own accord. He took full advantage of that. His tongue slipped in and explored my mouth like how he did at the hotel. A groan rumbled from the back of his throat when he got a taste of me. This kiss was angry and punishing but at the same time desperate and hungry. Butterflies erupted in the pit of my stomach and the glass cup dropped from my hand, shattering on the ground.

It broke our kiss and we both looked down at what I did. After we saw the shattered glasses, he looked back up at me. His lips swollen from kissing mine. I touched my lips faintly and his eyes darkened as my finger traced where his lips just were.

Why did he kiss me?

“Are you guys okay?” Brandon appeared and pushed me slightly away from the glass. The workers came to clean it up.

I felt like my body was going into shock. I still can’t believe Axel kissed me again.

My heart hammering in my chest. I watched my brother clean up my mess and Axel speak to the workers in Spanish.

Chapter 10

I have this feeling inside of me that is encouraging me to flee as I stared at Emery and her group of posse worry over flower arrangement, table set-up, table centerpieces, and then the bouquet as well as song selection. Emery wanted some classic and romantic. They were laughing joyously and giggling at little teasing remarks.

Was it bad that all I cared about was she chose red velvet with cream cheese filling as her choice of cake?

The boys were drinking out by the pool area and my brother and father took the opportunity again to pull Axel away on a drinking game. We all know where that might end up.

My mother was gossiping with a few other women that were sitting at a round table. I, on the other hand, was forced to sit at the table and listen to these girls talk about what color is more romantic and the meaning behind the flower choices. Leaning forward, I picked up the wine glass on the table and was about to sip it when Emery spoke my name.

“You haven’t said a word, Ryleigh. What do you think we should choose for flower choices? I was thinking maybe a possible mix of pink roses and white roses.” Emery included me. Everyone’s eyes snapped to me.

I shrugged, “Whatever you like.”

She huffed, “Can you at least be more enthusiastic? This is my wedding. It shouldn’t be that hard for you to pay me a little attention.”

I shrugged again, “Quite honestly, I don’t really care what color you choose. I think whatever color or flower you choose it shouldn’t play a part in how your marriage turns out. In the end, I believe it’s communication- ”

“How can you say such a thing?” Emery’s eyes flashed with irritation. “Weddings are not things to be taken lightly. It marks the first start of your new life with your future husband.”

She then sighed and waved her hand in the air in a dismissive way, “Oh, what do you know? You probably won’t have one for a long time.”

My eyebrows furrowed, and I leaned forward slightly, “What are you implying?”

“I’m just saying-”

My mother appeared along with Emery’s mother. They both smiled down at every one of us. The timing of these two is impeccable because I was about to land a fist into the bride’s perfect face. Instead, I threw Emery a glare that hopefully will split her open, but it didn’t happen. I hate the fact that all everybody thinks about was my weight. I don’t give a fuck how much I weigh or if I am fatter than a walrus. It’s my life.

“Are you girls ready for this evening?” Emery’s mother asked, wiggling her eyebrows suggestively. She looks exactly like Emery but an older version and a lot nicer.

Apparently, I was just notified that tonight will be Emery’s bachelorette party. Some of her friends were heading back to the United States at the end of this week and returning before the wedding due to their unavailability and work.

I’m pretty sure that this bachelorette party was going to suck. It will probably be tea and gossip. I have already asked my mother in declining the invitation, but my mother insisted that I make friends and get to know my cousins better.

A few hours later, I sat in a chair in Emery’s hotel room. It was indeed a bigger room. It could probably hold a total of thirty people in here. It has its own bedroom, a large outdoor jacuzzi, its own kitchen, and living room.

It’s been several hours since I last spoke to Axel and our last heated kissing scene. I sent him a quick text letting him know what was going on and he sent me back a scowling emoji—whatever that meant.

Emery came out of the bedroom, dressed in a silk evening dress fit for a queen and a crown on her head. A white ‘Bride’ sash ran from her shoulder to her waist. Everyone was talking amongst themselves and I felt like the ugly duckling that arrived at the ball in rags. No one noticed me.

A knock at the door and several girls in the room squealed with delight. Alice ran to the door. A moment later four men walked in, dressed in sexy costumes. They were all tall and burly with chest pecs that could be used for a washboard. One of them sat down a portable stereo speaker and turned on music on his phones. The girls were screaming at this point.

A few of Emery’s friend flung themselves at two of the male strippers who were wearing a cowboy suit and a doctor costume. The other one approached Emery and started grinding in her lap. She was screaming along with them and running her hands up and down his naked chest.

I must be more defected than I thought because all I wanted to do was hide. The blush and heat crawling on my cheeks were evident when I saw the cowboy rip off his pants like it was a piece of paper. I can now see his naked behind and it was very round. Some girls even slapped his behind.

I was too busy dying and hoping the floor will open and swallow me that I didn’t see the other stripper approach me. He was wearing a cop outfit and I am not going to lie. He looked fucking gorgeous with light hazel eyes and dark black hair that was smoothed back in a bad boy look.

“You look a little queasy.” He smirked sexily before moving to straddle me. He grabbed my hands and curled them around his shirt before ripping it open. My eyes widened as soon as he placed them on his hard chest and ran it down to just above his groin.

“W-wait.” I stuttered.

He chuckled, clearly enjoying my uneasiness.

“You can touch me. I’m not going to stop you, chica.” He urged, his voice thick with his native accent.

He was hot. I am not going to lie at all but all I could think about was he was a stranger and he’s making me touch his body in the most intimate way possible. Not to mention, his rhythmic grinding on my lap.

“Um…I’m sorry but I’m not interested.” I peeked up at him from underneath my eyelashes, avoiding looking at his groin and at him completely.

He stopped in his advances, but my hands remained on his chest with his hands firmly wrapped over mine. I saw his head tilt to the side to observe me.

“Aren’t you here to enjoy yourself? Let loose?” He asked, confused.

I cleared my throat, “If you don’t mind…”

I tried pulling my hands away, but he held them tight in his, but he did get off my lap.

“You’re an odd one.” He said.

I frowned, “There’s no need to-”

He laughed before shaking his head, “I do not mean to offend you, chica.“

“Then what exactly are you saying?” I narrowed my eyes at him questioning his earlier comment.

He was about to say something but stopped when another of Emery’s friend grabbed a hold of his elbow and started tugging.

“Officer, I think you just broke a law…” She purred. The stripper glanced at Emery’s friend before looking back at me.

“My name is Juan.” He said quickly and looked at me intently. I was confused for a second because why was he telling me his name but when he arched an eyebrow, I realized he was expecting my name.

“Ryleigh,” I replied.

He turned to Emery’s friend, leaned down, and whispered something in her ear. She giggled and let him go before he turned to me again.

“How long will you be here?” He asked.

“I am thinking about slipping out as soon as I am able to,” I told him.

He laughed, “I meant, how long are you going to be here in Spain.”

“What’s it to you?” I asked.

The girls started hollering his name. He gave them an impatient glance before turning back to me.

“I want to see you again.” He said straightforward.

“Oh,” I replied.

He grinned, “I didn’t expect that answer.”

I have had men asked me out on dates before but to say that I have had someone who looks like him ask me out it will be never. These kinds of men don’t look at me but here he was telling me he wanted to see me again.

He reached into his pocket and pulled out a pen and wrote his name number on my palm before putting it back.

“I have to go but if you do want to hang out, call me.” He winked before walking towards the girls.

I lifted my hand to look at the number that was scribbled on my palm. Then I glanced back at him, he was dancing with the girls but had his eyes on me.

I stayed in the party a few more minutes when it became obvious nobody cares if I leave or stay, I left. I closed the door behind me and headed to the elevator. When the elevator opened, I was surprised to see Axel waiting inside for me.

His eyes swept me up and down as if to make sure I was okay before his eyes narrowed in on my face. I stepped inside the elevator. His jaw ticked, and I knew he was annoyed.

“Where were you going?” I asked.

His jaw ticked again, “Did you have fun?”

I shrugged, and I crossed my arms, “It was okay.”

“You’re blushing.” He said, and I turned to my side to look at him.

“Well, the room was hot. There were a lot of girls.”

He scoffed, “I’m sure it was because of the temperature of the room.”

Huffing I turned to face him, “What is wrong?”

Axel’s jaw ticked again. Something was seriously bugging him. When he didn’t answer me, I decided not to press. I won’t beg for him to tell me. He will tell me when he was ready. I turned back to face the elevator entrance and waited for our floor.

In seconds he had me pinned against the wall.

“Damn it, Hermosa.” He pressed his forehead against mine. My hands pinned above my head down with his hands.

“Axel…” I whispered, feeling heat pool between my legs at his proximity. My heart was galloping, and I felt the air around me thinning. It seemed only around him lately I have noticed the lack of air and the pulsing in my nether regions.

“Just tell me…you didn’t do anything stupid.” He groaned, and I watched him close his eyes tightly waiting for my answer.

“I didn’t-well, I mean a stripper danced on me but-”

I saw his jaw clench in anger and my mouth snapped shut. He lifted his forehead from mine and his eyes opened. There was something in Axel’s eyes, it burned with possessiveness and it completely puzzled me. Why was my best friend possessive of me? Was he afraid that I will find another friend?

“You don’t have to worry, Axel. You will always be my friend.”

He gave me a mocking laugh, “God, you are clueless.”

“Now, that’s like the fifth time you called me clueless.”

“That’s because you are.” He retorted.

The elevator dinged and opened. He pulled back but not before he notices the penned number on my palm. He glared at my palm as if it had offended him before his eyes met mine.

Seconds later, he dragged me out of the elevator and towards our hotel room. I stumbled behind him. When we were inside our hotel room, he slammed the door shut and started pacing.

“Amigos? Esta mujer no tiene ni idea. Que hago? Se lo escribo? Ni idea de cuanto me quita el aliento cada vez que la veo.” He growled in his native language as he paced back and forth.

I knew Axel was too angry, judging by the way he was muttering in Spanish. I tried to sidestep around him, but he caught me around the wrist. Clumsily I fell onto the bed. He took advantage of that position and pinned my body onto the bed with his.

“Dejame entrar Ryleigh, deja de excluirme. ” He murmured in Spanish.

“Axel…”

He swallowed and pressed his forehead against mine again, “You know what your problem is?”

“What?” I asked in confusion.

“You think too damn much.” He growled before capturing my lips in his again.