
Janaina Medeiros
Xuebing Du
cherry valley forever

★

#extradirty
Sade Olutola
Cosmic Funnies
let's talk about Bridgerton tea, my ask is open
AnasAbdin

⁂
YOU ARE THE REASON
Sweet Seals For You, Always
NASA
Today's Document

Origami Around
Show & Tell

PR's Tumblrdome
Stranger Things

Kaledo Art

blake kathryn

seen from Malaysia

seen from Malaysia
seen from Germany
seen from Canada

seen from United States

seen from Italy
seen from United States

seen from Iraq
seen from Iraq
seen from United States

seen from Malaysia
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from United States

seen from United States
seen from United States

seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from United States
@imagineromanreigns
Unfinished Business – Part 3
As successful as Mr. Anoa'i is, I don't understand why he continues to deal with these stuffy nobodies. He could easily separate himself and start up his own company. Ten times over. Yet here he is, and here I am, stuffing myself into a dress and heels I'd much rather keep buried in the depths of my closet.
I love me a good party.. or social gathering if you will, and I love me some cute clothes as much as the next one, but I don't want to go mingle with The Stuffs. I'm practically stomping my feet as I slide on my pumps.
I'd quit this job if it wasn't for him. Honest to God.
And the paycheck.
But mainly him.
Come downstairs.
The text I've been waiting for, glass of wine in hand. I slip back the last sip and a half and brace myself.. to be completely alone with him. It’s a rarity.
I know better.
As much as I'm sure Mr. Anoa'i does.
Yet, he extended the invite.. he offered me a ride to the museum and back.. how could I resist?
Out of my apartment and down the elevator, I take one last look at the little black dress that could never do me wrong in the glass door and tuck my clutch into my side as the doorman wishes me a good night. Looking past the limo eating up the lanes, I look for the black escalade I've grown to recognize. I whip my phone out to text that I was indeed in front of my building before he turned the corner, when I hear him clear his throat straight ahead of me.
Something trancelike happens when I look up that transforms the barely red anymore carpet and the building's awning above it almost glint.. because Jeeeesus.
I thought he looked good in work suits and office parties, but Joseph Anoa'i, in a luxurious, deep blue tuxedo, cuff links and all.
Drooling. Among other things.
And to top it all off, accompanied by a freakin' Escalade limo?! Shivers roll down my spine, quickly spreading everywhere else. I imagine my eyes pop out of my head, and the curls on my head go poof into smoke.
"I promised you a good time in exchange for a dull evening, did I not?"
"I like to believe you keep your promises, boss."
A devilish smirk splays across his pink lips. "Always."
The door pops up behind him and he holds his hand out to me. Such a gentleman. He even waits until I'm fully settled in my seat to slide in across from me. As he sounds something off to the driver, miles ahead, I take a look around.
Bougie bougie.
The door, the underneath of the seats —and almost everything else— glows softly, a mini tv above the mini bar stocked with scotch and my favorite wine.. coincidence?
Hm. I think not.
That suit clinging to him though.. the things I would do..
The limo goes into drive, smooth sailing. Then the partition between us rises and we're alone.
Ish.
Mostly.
"What is it about limos?" Joe murmurs, chuckling to himself, licking his lips.
What's that now? I tilt my head. "Would you believe me if I told you this was my first time?"
His eyebrows rise. "I'm happy to be the one to pop your cherry. Would you like a drink?"
Good grief. Deep, deep down below, sparks go off. There's a lot of things I can do for the first time in here. "Supplying me with that wine doesn't mean you know me. Just an FYI."
"Perhaps I do.. perhaps not." He leans ahead slightly, collecting and filling a wine glass for me and fixing a scotch for himself. A double. "Nevertheless, I pay attention."
Salut.
I clink my glass to his and take a grateful sip to quenching my thirst. Slightly. He's not wrong, but I'll never tell him that. I will say, "I'll give you a brownie point."
His eyes travel down the curves of my body, down to the velvet pumps crossed between his shoes and back up again.
"I'll take what I can get." He throws back the scotch and sets his glass back on the bar.
"Why'd you ask me to accompany you tonight, Mr. Anoa'i?"
"What do you mean?" He tops off my glass a little bit.
"I mean, yes, I'm your PA. My company is usually expected. But this is not a work function. So, again, why me?"
Joe runs one hand over his head and the other down his beard.. Do I make him nervous? Unsettled, perhaps? Then his dark eyes fall to my lips. Or my breasts. Could be either or. They’re sitting high in this tight dress.
"We've had some good times outside the office... and you're great company to keep."
Is that so..? "Am I playing a role of some sort? The girlfriend? The fiancé? The silent wife?" I giggle, almost too loud.
He laughs, sitting all the way back, stretching out the length of his body a bit. God damn does he look good stretched out on that bench. Good enough to straddle.
"No one can play you, quite like you.. in truth, it's always good times with you."
Then I see it. It might be nighttime and there may not be much light in here but I know I see one thing for certain.
Joe might be trying to ply me with liquor, but I've never needed it. Not where he's concerned. I do slip back what's left of my drink before settling my glass beside his.
"That's good to know.. I thought it was just my blinding good looks and sass," I quip, and he laughs because he knows I'd never be caught dead talking about myself like that.
"You do compliment me though."
I can't help the sly smirk that graces my face. "I can do much more." I'm partially kidding.
But not really.
I can ply him.
With me.
I uncross my legs, spreading them the couple inches my dress will allow.
We stare at each other a moment, where I become highly aware of where I am, who I'm with, and all the scenarios that could possibly play out right now. Where I'm highly aware of my breathing, and Joe's, and that there's a man sitting a good 8ft or so ahead of us.
Then Joe all but falls to his knees, grabbing mine and pulling me to his hips as he goes, shoving my dress halfway up my thighs. He grabs my face, his thumbs sweeping over my cheeks right before his lips collide with mine.
That moment of awareness slips away and I'm in a trance all over again. I don't hear anything but the soft moans he makes with his lips on mine, the grunts he makes as he bites at my neck. I wrap my arms around him, taking his bun in one hand, pulling on it softly. He lets out a soft growl, looking up at me, eyes heavy and heady. I glance at his now swollen pink lips for a second, then take them again, hungrily making my way to his neck.
He throws his head back further, giving me better access before almost forcefully removing me.
No shame.
There's a small spot. I lick and kiss it softly and he smiles, scandal and mischief written all over his face.
Joe takes a handful of curls and teaches me a lesson of his own, taking the other hand to expose my breasts to the cool air. My nipples were already hard, but they perk up to an almost painful point now.
I almost beg him to warm them up with his tongue, the same tongue traveling everywhere but.
Down my jaw, across my neck, along my collarbones.. he nips and licks all around my nipples like he's saving the cherry for dessert. My knees buckle, bringing me closer to him. Then his tongue finally flicks one, immediately swallowed up by his mouth before he begins to takes turns, torturing me at this point. There's just enough bite with just enough licks to have me squirming, realizing I'm grinding against his stomach.
That doesn't make me stop.
Nor does he.
My nails dig into his back. It feels so good, he feels so good against me, I could almost explode already. Almost.
Only now, he does stop, lowering my back to the seat, then pushes my dress completely over my thighs as he settles himself back on his heels. He takes the chance to look me up and down again, smoothing one hand up my calf, under my thigh, slinging my right leg over his shoulder.
"Have I told you how beautiful you look tonight?"
Joe kisses the inside of my thigh, sending sparks up to the apex of my thighs. Taking small nips at me as he goes, his right hand mirrors his previous actions to my left leg.
I didn't think he actually expected an answer until my eyes closed briefly and he snaps the thin material of my thong at the crotch and his voice drowns out the sounds of everything around us.
“I believe I asked you a question,” he growls, biting down on a chunk of thigh demanding one.
"You have not, boss," I pout. Extra pouty. I wonder if he knows he looks real, real, good from this angle too.
"Forgive me, love. I'm sorry," he whispers, his voice muffled by my thighs, his mouth inching lower and lower. He looks up once more with that devilish smile. "You look so, so, beautiful tonight."
"Spell it." I shift my hips over him.
"Gladly."
Joe pulls my thighs, lifting one over his shoulder, supporting me with one arm underneath and the other splayed across my pelvis to keep me locked in place.. because FUCKKKK.
I'm not sure if I audibly cry out because I'm suddenly devoid of all hearing. I know I grab a hand full of hair and grab ahold of the sturdy forearm holding me down.
Just a couple slow, slow, laps of his tongue and I'm already swimming.
Spiraling.
He unlocks his arm from my waist, moving to pull my other leg over his shoulder. His hands smooth their way under my ass, just at the base, sits further back on his heels and my back lifts from the leather beneath me. My heels cross behind his back.
I'm almost suspended, but I'm not. I'm perfectly angled for what he needs. Looking.. up at him, I almost wonder if he's done this before, but I push the thought from my mind.
"Let's cross something off our bucket lists," Joe says, licking his lips before he kisses his way up my thighs once more, slipping his tongue to the exact right spot.
He said our.
I instinctively grab at his already messed up hair with one hand, the other above my head on the seat for some support because with the way I'm shaking...
One more swipe of his warm tongue against my flesh and I succumb to it. The orgasm rages through me, sending violent shudders throughout my body. Yet, Joe doesn't stop.. I'm still reeling, gasping for air. And he goes for another one, wasting no time, wasting nothing. Watching him, so focused, so determined, the second orgasm starts to build fast.
I look up and realize there's a sunroof that takes up just about the length of the limo. The sky is just dark enough to see the stars peeking through.
That moment of awareness again.
My breath catches in my throat, Joe wrapping his arms under and over my thighs to keep me as steady as possible.
The second one sends me off.
Screaming out what? I'm not sure, but I know I see stars for what seems like ever. Could be the sunroof, could be the orgasms, could be him.
When I snap back to reality, Joe is helping me scooch back up the leather seat, all smiles and messed up hair. While I'm exhausted from that venture alone, as soon as he sits back up, I slide down onto my knees, easily crawling the short distance. He looks down at me excitedly, tongue practically hanging from the corner of his mouth. He leans over and kisses me, hard, his tongue moving with purpose. To get me wetter and wetter, no doubt.
It’s working.
And I can taste myself on his tongue.
Much sooner than I'd appreciate, he pulls away, smacking one last loud kiss to my lips.
"As much as I'd love to watch you return the favor right now, we're two minutes away and I want to enjoy that for a lot longer." He smacks my bare ass, more smiles, he pulls my dress back into place and slides my now broken thong into his breast pocket, sending tingles everywhere down south. "Let's put ourselves back together."
I can't help but laugh at him dusting off his knees then fiddling with his bun, that I'm going to end up fixing for him. I'm not quite sure what Mr. Money Bags is thinking.. but it was worth every second, if I do say so myself.
Quick question.. would anyone be interested in a new chapter of Unfinished Business? 👀
Starbucks
"I know, I know! I'm late. As per usual. Please hold." I use the virtual wallet on my phone to pay for my coffee and toffee coffee cake, and continue working my way down the bar. "I'm literally around the corner. Don't kill me. See you in five."
If it wasn't for my best friend having an existential crisis, I would be in bed in pajamas, sipping on some moscato. Ideally. That's what days off are for. Right?Instead, I'm halfway through my coffee cake and mentally cursing her out because it's pouring out, I'm not wearing the appropriate footwear, oh, and did I mention.. it's my day off. "Jo!" The barista shouts over the bar. I happily grab my caramel latte, as it will give me the boost I need to get through whatever today's ordeal is. Exiting Starbucks, I dodge as much rain as possible underneath the green awning trying to hail a cab. Because I am definitely not right around the corner. Or five minutes away.
The first sip of my latte... is definitely not my latte.
"What in the world?" My tongue would jump out my mouth if it could. What is this monstrosity?
I look at the side of the cup where all little boxes have been checked off or have some abbreviation I don't understand.
Now I'm really really, really late.
I spin back towards the door, only for the door to swing out my way, sending the coffee cup flying out of my hand. I know better than to try and catch it. So I let it fall, like my mouth falls, when I see the beef-cake of a man who's brown eyes grow wide when my cup lands between our feet.
He was already taking a sip of his own drink, and it causes him to make a face. "Shit.. I'm incredibly sorry, miss.." his voice is deep, but it trails off at the end. Call me weak in the knees. Because wow. Wow. I don't respond because I know that nothing intelligible is going to come out right now.
"I shouldn't text and drink," he says, softly laughing, by way of explanation. I can hear it rumble through his chest. Then he looks down at our feet and makes another face. "Shit. I didn't mean to ruin your shoes."
"It's not a big deal." I bend over and pick up the cup, taking the time to admire this thick, delicious man before me. How you make a straight up black nike sweat suit look just as good as you? I will never know. "They've survived worse."
"And now I feel like an even bigger dick." But he's smiling. "I stole your coffee." Taking a glance at his held out cup, it says Jo. I look down at mine, somehow I missed it the first time, it says Joe.
"Ahh. That makes a lot more sense now."
Mr. Delicious holds his hand out to me. "Joe. Although, you stole mine. Technically. You actually made it out of the cafe."
“Jo.” I take his hand in mine, shaking all over. "And you spilled it all over the place. So really, who's the bad guy here?"
Joe laughs, showing off that boyish grin. Wow, again. "How about I get us both some new drinks?"
I'm not normally one to agree and go off with a stranger, but this man could lead me anywhere and I'll follow. "Deal. If only to show you how shit your taste in coffee is."
He laughs again, throwing his head back. "Me?! You have a killer sweet tooth."
I wink at him.
Me.
Who am I right now?!
Our drinks are ordered and brought out to us in quick succession due to the previous confusion, and we're back under the green awning hiding from the downpour still taking place. Me with more coffee cake, via Dreamy Joe.
"Since we met under wretched circumstances," Joe starts, chuckling under a heady gaze, "I was wondering if you'd be interested in meeting me, for real this time.. Would you like to have dinner with me? And my shit taste in coffee."
I tilt my head as if I'm weighing the option. But who am I kidding? "I'd love to."
Those big brown eyes already have me.
And everything else.
Unfinished Business – Part 2
I decide to sit in on this morning’s meeting since the view is a lot better from the head of the table than across the glass wall of my office. I’m obviously talking about the man clad in a crisp, deep burgundy suit, not the beautiful city skyscape behind him.. and if I’m being honest, the bulging biceps.. the thick columns for legs.. the round, firm ass is much more breathtaking. I’m mindlessly tapping at the keys on my iPad’s screen, taking half-assed notes as I’m not actually focusing. I grab at handfuls of words. They may not even be legible either. At some point the pain I’m inflicting on my bottom lip caught between my teeth hits me. Jeezus. Get a grip, I scold myself. I must’ve been star gazing longer than I thought, because everyone is packing up their portfolio folders and devices, leaving just Joe and I in the glass encased office. I don’t bother moving from my seat. What my eyes set sight on is far too good to give up just yet, and no one would suspect a thing. I am afterall his personal assistant. I am almost always where he is. No matter how far across the room, no matter how many flights away he is, I can feel the pull deep, deep down in my belly. I can feel it now. My thighs press tighter together in my bodycon skirt and I take a deep breath.
“You seem to be distracted this morning. Care to share what’s got your mind so preoccupied?” Joe is all smug faced and crooked smiles, leaning his back against the window. He rakes a couple loose inky strands back to perfect his bun, then crosses his arms. “I’ll wait…” “We never got to finish our conversation from the other morning.. how you know more than I think you know.” I lie, but it catches him off foot.
I have one up on him, if anyone is keeping score. His eyes grow wider, darker almost. As if I’m indulging in his game just how he’d like. The best part of it is that neither of us is playing for keeps. Just for brownie points. I know if I play my hand just right, I’ll get exactly what I want. Might it be a bad idea being that he’s my boss? More than likely, yes. But I want it. Bad. He’d be lying if he said he didn’t want it just as bad. If not more. He unfolds his arms and strides over to my side, every step meticulously measured to give me a view of his long thick legs. The delicious mix of his cologne and natural scent that is even better than the cologne washes over me. I take in a deep, slow breath.
“May I?” He asks, his voice low and husky as he reaches for my iPad, keeping his eyes set on mine like a wolf setting it’s eyes on its prey. Part of me wishes he’d just splay my back on the table and devour me like I was. Just get it over with. I lick my lips. “You are the boss.” “As long as you understand that.” He places the iPad on my lap, simultaneously swiveling my chair to face the window he was leaning against. Then grabs the empty chair adjacent to me, setting it directly in front of me and takes a seat. “As I said, I know more than you think I do. May I speak freely?” “Do you have to ask, boss?” I purposely let the last word roll off my lips, watching as his lips twitch softly. I almost shudder at the feel his fingertips at my ankle, slowly making their way up my calf. “So much tension built up between these smooth calves from trying to contain your excitement. Just how wet are you right now?” My breath catches when his fingers slip past the hem of my skirt. “Perhaps wet enough to soak your panties? Wet enough to wet the seat?” The smile that breaks across his pouty lips kicks me into high gear. He doesn’t know who he’s playing this game with. “If you know so much, you’d know I don’t wear panties. Thongs or nothing at all.” I uncross my legs to grant him the access his hands are seeking. “Care to find out which I opted for today?” Joe licks his lips, hungrily. “Keep your hands on the iPad. Understood?” “Understood, boss.”
The smooth palms of his hands slide my thighs apart. He keeps his cool the entire way through. I realize he set us up perfectly so no one on the other side of the glass panel can see me, or what he’s doing to me under the table, and if anyone did, they’d see us hovering over the iPad. Then his fingers find the thin material of my thong.
“I love lace. I wonder what you look like covered in it from head to toe, with me buried deep inside you.” Right then he pushes my thong to the side, finding my slick pussy ready and waiting. “The answer is better than I expected.. wet enough to soak my beard. Dripping wet for me to lick up and drink. Gushing, just for me, for to me drown in. How do you like the sound of that?” And two long, thick fingers slip past my lips and into me slowly. I’m so wet, we can hear his motions fill the silent room. “I definitely like the sound of that.”
My head drops back against the seat, my feet planted firmly on the ground to mantain control of the scream threatening to leave my mouth.
“Relax,” He says low, through almost gritted teeth. “I want us both to enjoy this.”
And his fingers really get to work, sliding in and out of me at the perfect pace to build the orgasm that’s been rumbling, growing day by day, waiting for a moment just like this. The grip I have on the stupid iPad is threatening my resolve because I want to just throw it across the room and pounce on him. And I know he wouldn’t disappoint. The bulge in his pants is thick and strained underneath the fabric. I swear I see it twitch. My mouth waters at the thought of his length between my lips and licking all over him. But I have to remember where we are, and exactly what we’re doing. We never take our eyes off each other. Joe continues to pump his long fingers into me, adding his thumb into the mix to stroke my clit softly. I have to really bite down on my lip to contain myself now because I want to cry out at the feel of how skilled he is, I have to. I come, crashing down, writhing against his hand and riding out the waves and euphoria that take over my body.
“Breathe,” He reminds me. I do as told, rewarded with a, “good girl.” He waits until I’m completely done panting and vibrating in my seat to slyly slide his fingers out of me. “Would you look at that…” Joe’s eyes twinkle with childlike delight, marveling at the evidence of my arousal and orgasm dripping down to his wrist. Before I can think of something slick to say, he raises his hand to his lips and sucks the juices off his fingers, licking his lips clean, keeping his eyes on mine the entire time. “Just as sweet, if not sweeter than I imagined.
Hearing the clicks of heels approaching somewhere to my right, I cross my legs again. Both to regain my composure and to set the tone of business for the oncoming set of eyes. The heel clicks stop and a soft knock at the door is answered by a nod from Joe.
“Mr. Anoa’i, Ms. Williams, your 3 o’clock meeting has just arrived to the lobby. Should I bring them here?” Without taking his eyes off me, Joe pretends to look at his watch. “Where did the time go? Please show them in.” The heels click away once more and my body is buzzing for more. “Guess happy hour came an hour early for me. Next time, drinks on you, Ms. Williams?” “Yes, boss.” I stand, straighten my skirt and turn on my heel on the wink of an eye, biting my lip. “On me... or down the hatchet. Until next time.” He sits back, all smiles, adjusting his blazer to cover his straining member. “Until next time.”
and your new intercontinental champion
Roman´s Promo before his Match on Raw !
Can we take a moment of silence to embrace how beautiful his well being truly is? ♡♡
wwe: #RomanReigns is your #NEW #ICTitle Champion! #Raw
Mic drop 😎
dean + the word MY when it comes to roman
That thick man and his thick beard 😍
Can you do a part 2 on how I spent my anniversary?
Finally done! :)
Summer Love (Sequel 2 H.I.S.M.A)
Can you do a part 2 on how I spent my anniversary?
can you do a sequel? please with chocolate on top!
this def needs a part 2
The clock finally struck 4:00 PM and I was out of the door. I didn't bother to stay for the staff lunch or even acknowledge it was going on. There was somewhere special I wanted to go, and I've been waiting long enough! After pulling out of the parking lot, I tuned into my favorite radio station. My phone started to ring with one of my coworker's name on the screen.
"Nope." I mumble and put my phone on airplane mode.
Two hours later, the smell of BBQ seeped through my vents as I neared the parking lot. As I neared closer, it looked full. Crap. There were even vehicles parked in lines down the road. I came to a sudden halt when a round, curly redhead waved her short arms. My eyes lit up with a face splitting smile. It was Maggie!
"Hey, Candace! Pull in over here, darlin! Take that curve down until you reach the back of the bar."
I nod and drove through the opened gate. Once I parked, a red four wheeler roared down the road and stopped behind my truck. Maggie was holding on to a tall, thin man with a bushy grey mustache. She hopped off and immediately pulled me into a big hug. I hugged her with the same strength, as we said how much we've missed each other.
"It took long enough, hot stuff!" She perched her hands on her hips.
"I know! We don't have spring breaks, so I had to wait all the way until the summer."
"Well, I'm so glad you came. And uh," she looks back at the bar, "he still doesn't know." She winks.
I started to get excited all over again. "Oh, good! I can't wait to see him."
"I can't wait either! I've been anxious all day for this moment." She turns to the driver, "Chuck, this is Candace. My little friend I told you about."
Chuck hops off the four wheeler, grabbing my extended hand. "Nice to meet you, beautiful." He kisses my hand. "How was the drive?"
"Thank you, it was peaceful." I smile warmly.
"Sounds alright," he nods. "Well, you're just in time for some good BBQ."
"Oh, yes! Get out of those business clothes and get comfortable. Put your things behind the bar, then meet us on the patio." She kisses my cheek before heading off with Chuck up the road.
I grab my bag from the backseat and hurry into the bar. I change in the bathroom: jean shorts, converse, tank top, and a plaid button down that I left open. I graze through the thick crowd until I make it to the bar, where I place my bag in a cabinet. As I near the patio, I see him holding a beer to his lips before laughing at something. To his left was another familiar face, his friend, Charlie. Without guessing, I'm sure he was responsible for that laugh. Charlie looked in my direction with surprise as I stepped on to the patio.
"Shhh." I put my finger up and catch him nod with a smirk.
Once I was close enough with the smell of seasoned meat swooning my nostrils, I spoke. "Please tell me you haven't run out of those steak burgers yet?"
"Just laid down another round—," he turned around, "oh shit!"
I bat my eyelashes all bashful. "Hey, Joe."
He put the spatula down and hauled me into a big bear hug. I wrapped my arms tightly around his neck, breathing in the scent of smoke and body wash. A juicy kiss was planted on his cheek, as he returned one on my forehead.
"Don't tell anyone, but I've missed you." He says low against my forehead.
I giggle, finally allowing myself to let him go. "Likewise."
"Well, well. Hello again, gorgeous. Thought his ugly face scared you off." Charlie gives me a hug and peck on the cheek. "Happens to me all the time."
"Yet you still keep coming back around." Joe flicks his middle finger up.
Charlie shrugs, "the cost of not having any other friends, mate." He takes a swig of beer.
"Sounds like a bromance to me." I raise a brow at Joe.
Joe wrinkles his face, "Dreadful."
"Oh sure now that Candace's back, you don't find me desirable." He playfully sighs, "I get it. Guess I'll be on my way. All by my lonesome."
"Much appreciated," Joe nods his beer bottle as Charlie laughs and walks off.
I shake my head at the playful banter. "You too are adorable."
"Not as adorable as you are right now." He wraps an arm around my shoulder, kissing my forehead again. "This was a great surprise by the way. Now I see why Maggie was extra excited about today."
I place my hand on his wrist. "I know. I was worried she would get too excited and spill the beans by now."
He splashes marinade on the patties. "Nah, she's been keeping her cool this whole time. Straight poker face. But today I don't think she could control it any longer." He grins.
"May I?" My hand reaches for a juicy, steak patty in a tin pan.
"Wanna make sure they taste the same?"
"Absolutely!" I take a bite, instantly moaning.
"I take it they do." He laughs, looking down at my chewing mouth.
I just nod, taking another bite.
As the afternoon rolled into the evening, the guests were full of delicious BBQ and drunkenly singing karaoke. I've never laughed so hard in my life! So many deaf tone, off key singers and off beat rappers. But they were happy. Simply enjoying themselves at Joe's place. This added to my own happiness. As I casually glance back at the bar, where I last sat heartbroken and tipsy, two young women were being approached by two young guys. Their blushing was infectious, as the guys charmed them with their best game. Young love was being created right before my eyes.
"Alright, everybody! This song is going out to all of the lovers! Both single and taken!"
Everyone laughs at the small joke, as Maggie grabs the mic. “Jolene” by Dolly Parton starts playing and instantly the women were all revved up. One tipsy patron yelled out to Maggie to “SING THAT SHIT”, while others swayed their drinks in the air.
Joe’s arms draped over my shoulders, followed by a cheek kiss. “I’m going to take a wild guess and say my dear Maggie is really tipsy.”
“You know, it could be the only reason why she’d dedicate this song to all of the lovers.” I laugh.
We joined in with crowd, swaying and singing to the song. Every time Maggie sang the chorus, it sent Joe and me into hysterics. She would sing it with such passion and determination. Even though she’s been the only contestant so far who could actually sing, it didn’t stop us from laughing. The crowd gave a wild applause as Maggie ended the song and took a bow.
“Whew! That one does it to me every time!” Maggie spoke, “Is everybody having a good time?”
The crowd answers in ‘woohoos’, ‘Hell yeahs’, whistles and claps.
“I’m so glad to hear that.” She takes a napkin and wipes her face. “You know, we wanted to give you guys a special ‘Thank You’ for constantly keeping this bar afloat. To know that there’re so many people that come here from all different walks of life and leave in good spirits, it means so much to us.
“With that being said, I would like to give all of my love and appreciation right now to my young, handsome boss.” Maggie grabs a cup from someone in front of the stage. “Thanks, darlin.” She takes a sip, “Joe! Here’s to our four years and many, many more! I love you like my own son and you’ve been nothing but good to me. Cheers to Joe!”
The crowd send their drinks in the air, as they all look back at Joe with gratitude. I grab onto his arms, looking up at him with the same gratitude. He modestly put his hand up, smiling in appreciation. Then he blew a kiss at Maggie, in which she caught and placed over her heart. It was such a beautiful moment that I was honored to be apart of.
Maggie, Charlie, Chuck, and I began throwing away trash as the patrons were filing out. Joe was at the door bidding everyone a goodnight and thanking them for coming. When he was done, he joined us as we crowded the bar.
“Okay, guys. We can call it a night!” Joe claps his hands. “I appreciate y’all for cleaning up. Frank and his people will be in tomorrow morning to finish up with the floors and such.”
“Alright, mate. Get some rest. You did one helluva party!” Charlie and Joe slapped hands and hugged. “You too, gorgeous. Nice to see you again.” He kissed my cheek and hugged me as well.
A few seconds of us all bidding our farewells, we hauled out of the bar. Joe set the alarm and securely locked up. With my bag in one hand, he tossed his free arm over my shoulder.
“Ready?” He looks down at me.
“Yes sir.” I grin.
He drove us to his house in a comfortable silence, as the radio played Soft Rock. We turned down the road that led to his Bed & Breakfast. A smile crossed my lips. What a night we had there. We finally made it to his home that was behind the Inn.
“Welcome to your home away from home, Candace.” He looked over at me with a smile.
“Why, Joe. How thoughtful of you!”
He shrugs, “Well, ya know. What can I say?”
“Silly.” I shake my head on a smirk.
He unlocks the front door, letting me walk in first. It was just how I imagined: manly and tidy. It was almost too sophisticated to be a bachelor pad.
“It’s hard to believe that only a man stays here.”
Joe snorts, “I get that a lot. A man simply can’t have a clean, wholesome home?”
“It’s possible, but HIGHLY unlikely.” I retort. “It’s a beautiful home though. I’m a big fan of wooden interior, so that alone wins me over.”
“Thank you, Candace.” He wraps his arms around me from behind. “I’ve really, really missed you.” He spoke into my ear.
I closed my eyes on an inhale from those words. My head was glued to his chest and I felt his calm heart beat.
“I’ve missed you, too. Like crazy.” I began, “I thought I was being dramatic because it was only one night. But you made me feel so special and I haven’t felt that way in a long time.”
“No, you weren’t being dramatic. You made me feel the same way. It felt so natural with us that night.”
My eyes open at a thought. “Why didn’t you ask me for my number before I left?”
He sighs, “Honestly? I felt that I wouldn’t see you again. Yeah, we said that we’d see each other again but I didn’t believe it. You’re from the city. I figured there’s nothing here I have to offer you that’ll make you want to come back.”
I turned to face him. “That must’ve happened before?”
“Yep, a few times.”
“Well, as you see, I stand before you once again. I know it’s been a few months and I apologize for that. On top of not being able to take off from work like I wanted, I was still dealing with my breakups. I told myself that there wasn’t any way I would come back here with that baggage. I wanted you to see a happier me, not someone who was pitifully, broken-hearted. Not to mention, I also felt that you didn’t mean it when you said you wanted me to come back.”
“I understand wholeheartedly. You had to experience an unfortunate situation that would’ve gave anybody the blues. So don’t apologize for that.” His fingers twirl ends of my hair. “Plus, you’re a busy woman. I just figured that if it’s meant for us to see each other again, somehow, it’ll happen. But mark my words, Candace, I meant what I said. I wish now that I would’ve gotten your number. The sound of your voice would’ve given me less sleepless nights until I saw you again.”
I couldn’t resist it anymore. I planted a kiss on his lips, finally feeling restless from staring at them as the moved. Joe responded by engulfing me in his arms tighter, vigorously kissing back. My hands clasped his neck, pulling him more towards me. I dreamt of this moment since the day I left. I wanted to do this when he held me as we laid in front of the fireplace that night. My senses heightened for him, causing me to moan as we continued kissing. I pulled back to catch some air, while reigning in surprise at my actions.
“I’m so sorry!” I look up at him. “That wasn’t sup—oh!”
Joe effortlessly picked me up and pressed me against the wall. My neck was scorched in heated kisses.
“Joe,” I breathed.
After a few more kisses, he connected his forehead with mines. His chest was rising with every breath, eyes closed.
“Don’t you dare apologize.” He slowly peeled me from the wall and made sure my feet planted on the floor.
There was a moment. We just stood there facing each other not knowing what to say. The thick air was starting to settle around us. Our breathing was becoming steady. I still can’t believe I just did that. Was it the liquor from the BBQ that made me this bold? I didn’t think I drank that much. Or was it simply me making up for lost time? I don’t know where it came from, but I’m stuck between liking it and being totally horrified.
Joe cleared his throat, apparently trying to snap out of it as well. “Um, if you go down this way you’ll see my room on the left at the end. My bathroom is in there as well. So you can get settled in and shower if you want. I’ll go put on some coffee.”
“Sounds good. Um, thanks.” I nervously pick up my bag and head to his room.
After a quick hair wash and cleaning, I linger in the shower for a minute. The water felt amazing cascading down my skin. It just occurred to me that I’d been on the go since eight o’ clock this morning. I’m pretty sure it’smidnight by now. I turned the knobs off and climb out of the tub. The aroma of coffee beans filled the air. I could definitely use a cup right about now.
I let the coffee scent guide me into the kitchen. Joe was standing by the island going through his phone. He was now dressed in a white wife beater with loose burgundy pajama pants. His hair fell in damp tendrils and I could smell that body wash from earlier. He looked up from his scrolling with a grin.
“Everything good? I went ahead and used the guest bathroom for a shower as well.”
“Of course. It’d be much better once I get some of that coffee.” I grab a seat at the island.
“Coming right up.” He winked.
He poured two mugs of hot, black coffee. We added our own portions of cream and sugar.
I blew over the mug. “That was such a beautiful speech by Maggie tonight. I was almost in tears.”
Joe blushed, “Completely caught me off guard. She’s the greatest, I tell ya.” He takes a slow sip.
“She really is. If it wasn’t for her contacting my receptionist, I wouldn’t have known about the BBQ. You should’ve seen my face when I heard her voice!” I chuckle, “It was like an answered prayer. I truly couldn’t remember how to get back here. After all, I just drove last time and magically ended up at the bar.
I smile at the remembrance of our phone chat. “I missed her as well. She said she searched the internet nonstop for me until she finally came across the accounting firm.”
“I’m gonna have to give Maggie a raise for all of her hard work. She truly made my day, today.” Joe genuinely smiles. “By far the best surprise I’ve gotten.”
“Cheers to Maggie.” I lift my mug.
Joe clinks his with mines. “Here, here.”
I take a smooth sip of my coffee. “So how do you end your night after a busy day of running a bar?”
He bashfully answers and reaches his hand to me. “Come on, I’ll show you.
We approach glass doors that stood behind the kitchen table. He unlocked and slid one open, then led us onto a gigantic porch. He guided me to a reclined, patio chair. He grabbed my mug and placed it on the small night stand next to the chair. After he seated himself, he guided me down until I sat back comfortably on him.
“Look up at the sky.” Joe instructed.
I did so and was so astonished. “Oh my, look at those stars!” I gasped. “They’re so many.”
I’ve never seen the sky this beautiful in my life, ever! I could actually see the moon in all its full glory, just lightening up the several shades of black and blues in the sky. The stars were spread out like decorative ornaments. Their shimmers were undeniable.
“It’s a sight to see, isn’t it?” Joe chimed. “Sometimes I’m even left speechless. Looking up at these skies have gotten me through many tough times. All I have to do is stare up and breathe away everything that’s bothering me.”
“That’s exactly how I’m feeling right now.” I shake my head. “I’ve never seen the sky like this in the city. I’m almost jealous.”
“Don’t be, Candace. Just look at it this way: you now have a place to come and see it in this form whenever you’d like.”
I almost feel teary eyed. Joe was filling my heart up in ways I couldn’t imagine. Back home, an ideal date or romantic getaway would be an expensive thing. They weren’t ever this simple; a cup of coffee and gazing up at the stars. This was the most romantic thing I’ve ever experienced and I didn’t want it to end.
I gasp, “Is that a shooting star?!” My eyes spread wide at the white stripe zip through the sky.
Joe confirms with a cool grin. “That sure is. Hurry and make a wish.”
I wanted to shut my eyes like an excited child would to make a wish. But I was too amazed! When it was finally gone, I turned to face Joe.
“I’ve never seen a shooting star before!” I whispered, “That was so cool!”
He nods, “They appear all the time out here. I’ve been seeing them since I was a kid.” His hand glides vertically up my arm. “Did you make your wish?”
“Ugh, no. I was too excited to see it that I couldn’t close my eyes.” I pout.
“Well, you know you don’t have to close your eyes to make a wish with a shooting star.”
“Now you tell me!” I playfully slap his leg. “I take it you made your wish.”
“I surely did.”
“I want to tell you my wish.” I turn to face him, now sitting on his lap.
He sits up at attention and sets his hands on my thighs. “I’m all ears.”
I take a breath. “I thought back to when you said that you had nothing to offer a city girl. And I want to tell you how wrong you are. You’ve given me so much to appreciate and this is my second time seeing you. I’ve never had a man cook for me, actually listen to me, comfort me, and make me feel this way from simple things. Like drinking caffeine while star gazing. If this is what a country boy can offer me, then I’ll take all of it and more.”
I feel myself getting nervous, so I start to twist my fingers in my lap. Joe soon notices my nervousness and he rubs my thighs, coaxing me to take my time and relax.
“I say all of that to say I’d love to spend my summer with you, Joe.” I sigh victoriously, “That was my uh, wish.”
Joe stared at me for a moment, completely surprised at my statement. I almost regretted my declaration until my mouth was seized by his. They were so soft, kind, and sincere. When he grabbed my face, pulling back from my lips, his smile couldn’t have been more established.
“You’ve just made my wish come true, Candace.”