Waking Up in Vegas

Don't be a baby
Remember what you told me
Shut up and put your money where your mouth is
That's what you get for waking up in Vegas
Get up and shake the glitter off your clothes now
That's what you get for waking up in Vegas- Waking Up in Vegas by Katy Perry 

RING RING RING!!!

"Jake..." I groaned, burrowing into the bed. "Phone."

"It's my birthday..." He murmured.

"Not till Tuesday. And it's on your side." I debated him.

He reached over, groaning, and answered it.

I stretched out in the big, comfortable bed. My body was aching, but each ache reminded me of how much fun I had with Jake last night. My body throbbed with pleasure just thinking about it.

The night before, Jake fondled me from behind as we looked over the Vegas strip from the window in the bedroom. When he started to unhook my dress, I tried to relocate us to the bed, but he held me in place and removed it.  He kissed me all over my body before propping me against the window. I moaned when he put on a condom and pushed inside of me. He didn't take me to the bed until he was ready to change positions. We stayed up late exploring new positions; hence why we both were exhausted, sore and unwilling to leave the comfort of bed.

I tuned out his conversation as I snuggled in the bed. I was *this* close to falling back asleep, when the covers were pulled off of me.

"Jake!!!"

I curled up, glaring at him as the cold air from the ac blasted my naked body.

"Wake up. Time for breakfast."

"Fuck Breakfast." I declared, reaching for the comforter.

"Alright, I bought all day passes. So I guess it's OK if you wanna skip breakfast and unlimited mimosas. I'm sure lunch will be just as good." Jake commented, throwing the covers on me.

I groaned and sat up. I was not missing breakfast nor unlimited mimosas!


After we washed up and changed, we went to the buffet. Brandon, Rocky, Omar and Kelly were already there. After making our plates, we joined them. I told Rocky and Brandon about our gambling adventure the night before.

Rocky and Brandon ended up walking the strip. They spent 10 dollars at every casino they passed. They broke even and spent the rest of the night at a bar before heading back.

Rocky informed me of a mini shopping mall she found on the strip that she wanted to go back to. I looked at Jake.

"What's the plan for the day?" I asked.

"If you wanna go shopping, that's fine. We have that dance show tonight. Omar set us up for classes at the Motor Speedway." Jake told me.

"Classes?" I asked, excitedly.

"Racing school. We can drive Ferraris or Lamborghinis." Jake explained.

"We figured you girls could have a spa day or something." Omar butted in.

Honestly, racing exotic cars sounded so much more fun than a spa day that I could do at home.

Rocky watched me, expectantly.

"I thought your actual birthday was guys only sausage fest day. On the boat." I questioned.

"I decided to make that everyone included. That way y'all can make food." Jake smiled at me.

"Well, as fun as that sounds, I can't. I have to be at work." I said, regretfully.

Jake looked at me confused. "Since when do you work on Tuesdays?"

"Since 3 therapists left and I can't fit all my patients in 4 days." I replied.

Jake frowned up. "We'll figure Tuesday out. What do you wanna do today?"

"I wanna go shopping." I said. I figured I'd let them have their day.

After that was figured out, we enjoyed breakfast. Jasmine and Reggie joined us. They were planning to do their own thing that day but we're just as excited about the Jabbawockeez as I was. No one knew where Colton and Malik were, but they were planning on going to race cars as well. Frankie and Tonya were going too. I was more than a little pissed that Tonya was going on the guy's outing, but I already made my decision.

We went our separate ways. The boys (and Tonya!) left for the driving school while Kelly, Rocky and I set off on our own adventure. Our only plan was to do some shopping and just see where the day took us.

After taking pictures outside the Luxor (in front of the sphinx of course) we walked the strip. We documented our trip, stopping to take a ton of pictures on the way. I actually had a great time with Kelly. She was so fun and silly. I guess opposites do attract cause Omar had no sense of humor at all.

We found a mini mall and did some window shopping. Rocky bought herself an insanely expensive Dolce Bag. I ended up finding an Alpina watch for Jake's birthday. Kelly assured me he would love it. Apparently his dad bought him one for his 21st birthday. It was stolen and he never replaced it. I decided to buy him one, upgraded of course and maybe stick it in a pinata just to spite Omar.

On the way back to the hotel, we saw the New York, New York roller coaster and stopped to ride it. We then jumped on the tram to head back to the hotel. I gave Jake a call to see what they were up to, but I got no response. I didn't feel too bad after Rocky couldn't get in touch with Brandon.

"Good. Now I can go to the room and get a nap." Rocky decided.

"Good idea!" Kelly replied. "I'm exhausted all the time lately."

I nodded, but I wasn't tired at all. I decided I would stay up and explore the hotel.

We got off the tram and walked to the Luxor.

"This was really fun Lily. You look really nice today. I just wanted you to know how much I enjoy our time together." Rocky said.

I looked at her like she was crazy. What the fuck was her problem? I kept waiting for the punchline, but it didn't come.

"Um, ok. Thanks Rocky. It was fun hanging out with you too..." I thanked her.

Crazy...

We went to our respective rooms. After hiding Jake's gift in my luggage, I left the room. I aimlessly walked the resort. I found a Jabbawockeez's gift shop and purchased a tank top and a mask for the show. I wandered around the casino shops before making my way back to the main entrance. I was debating whether it would be weird to go to the buffet alone when I heard someone call my name. I looked up to see Malik.

"Hey." I greeted him. "So y'all are back?"

"Brandon, Colton and I are. The rest of them went to a car show." Malik answered.

I rolled my eyes. "Of course they did. Cause there are no car shows in Dallas."

Malik laughed. "That's your boyfriend."

"I'm sure it was Omar. He wanted us girls to do a spa day like they don't have spas in Dallas. Where were you headed?" I asked.

"I'm going to the GMG." He said.

"Gambling? Who's all going?" I asked.

"Just me, and I'm not gambling..." he said, shortly.

"Oh ok." I said, embarrassed. I probably shouldn't have asked. It probably sounded weird without Jake joining us. Especially if he thought I was a homie hopper like Omar said...

He looked embarrassed now. "Don't laugh, but I'm actually going to the CSI exhibit. I'm going to school for forensic science. I just wanted to check it out. You're welcomed to come." Malik invited me.

I smiled. "That sounds cool. Let me try to call Jake again. Be right back."

He smiled too. "Sure."

I tried to call Jake on my way back to the room. When I got no answer, I texted him about leaving with Malik.  After I put my purchases away in our room, I checked my phone. After one last call, I shrugged it off and decided to go. I met back up with Malik and we headed to the MGM.

I was so glad I ran into Malik. The exhibit was so much fun. We picked the crime scene where a lady's body was found behind a hotel. We took down our observations and clues while we read through the displays. We actually made the experience more interactive, to the amusement and annoyance of those around us. Malik educated me on real crime scene investigations while I threw out wild theories on what I believed happened. The wilder my theories were, the harder Malik laughed at me. When I took a selfie near the "dead body", he laughed and told me it was time to go.

We went to the food court first and ate at Nathan's Famous Hotdogs. While we were finishing up, Jake finally called me back.

"Where are you?" He asked.

"Still at MGM with Malik. We're about to head back." I told him quickly.

"Ok. I'll see you when y'all get back." He said.

I rushed Malik out so we could hurry back. I knew Malik was Jake's friend, but I didn't know the protocol on this type of situation. That's why I tried to text Jake first.

We went straight to the room when we got to the hotel. Jake, Omar, Frankie, Kelly and Tonya were hanging in the living area, drinking Patrón.

"Hey guys." I said smiling as I joined them. I sat next to Jake on the couch. Malik grabbed a chair. "What kind of car did you drive?" I asked Jake.

"I did laps in a Ferrari and a Lamborghini." Jake said, wrapping his arm around me.

"Wow and you're still in one piece. What about the cars?" I grinned.

"They're fine, but I now decided I want a plane and a Ferrari." Jake answered.

"So I'm going to need to build a race track on Lilytopia?"

"Naw. Street racing is fine with me."

"Did y'all have fun?" Omar asked Malik and me.

"Yeah. Until Lily started taking selfies at the crime scene. She had people looking at us all crazy." Malik grinned.

"Whatever! They were already looking at you crazy! Every time you pointed out how inaccurate the show is." I smirked.

"Whatever to you. Sorry I ruined the exhibit with facts." Malik countered.

"It's a TV show. No one cares about facts." I laughed. I pulled out the picture we took and purchased at the exhibit to show Jake.

"See? Someone gave me a gun." I smiled.

The picture had a CSI background. I was wearing a prop vest over my blouse and denim short shorts. My hair was flipped dramatically to the side as I posed for the camera, the gun pointed straight at it. Malik wore the CSI cap and was posing with handcuffs next to me. We both wore serious expressions on our face.

"Looks like you had fun." Jake said, with a little smile. "Do you wanna grab something to eat?"

"Looks like they already did." Omar said, nodding towards the Nathan's disposals cups we both held.

"I can eat again." I said, quickly.

Jake gave me a full smile. "Of course you can."

"Shut. Up." I smiled at him.

------------------------

After dinner at the buffet, we went back up to our room to get ready for the Jabbawockeez's show. I excitedly showered and dressed. I stood in the bathroom mirror, teasing my hair into a bouffant ponytail. I smiled at my image when I had it perfect. After I put on my make-up, I closed the door to get dressed. I put on the Jabbawockeez tank tucked into a red high waisted bandage skirt. I stepped out of the bedroom and into the living room.

Jake was dressed in black relaxed fit jeans and a blue short sleeved button up. He looked so sexy with the top buttons undone. I looked him over as I grabbed my shoes. He watched me from the couch as I put on black booties. I turned to meet his eyes. He had a thoughtful expression on his face, but his eyes looked intense.

"What?" I asked, nervously.

"Nothing." He said, simply.

That made me even more nervous. "What is it? Really?" I asked.

Whatever it was, I wanted to work it out right now. I didn't wanna take the chance of me doing something wrong and getting into a fight in front of everyone. I hoped this wasn't about Malik...

"I was thinking about how sexy you are and how many ways I wanna prove you're mine on this couch." That made my pulse quicken. "But I figured you wouldn't want that since you're ready to go. So I'm planning what I'm going to do to you later on." Jake laid out for me.

I walked over to him and put my hands on his shoulders. "You have nothing to prove. I'm yours. But I can't wait for tonight."

His hand trailed up my leg, stopping as he caressed my butt in my skirt. "Say it again Lily." He demanded, looking me in the eyes.

"I'm yours Jake." I repeated.

Thank God the phone rang, breaking the spell that was casted between us. I was looking forward to this show, but Jake had a way of touching me that made me forget my plans. I didn't want to take that chance.

I left to answer the phone. It was Jasmine, asking where we were meeting. I told her our room. After they came, we left and met Brandon, Rocky, and Malik. The others were going to see Fantasy, a show girl performance. We arrived at the theater and took pictures outside by the display of the life sized Jabbawockeez mannequins and a huge mask. After buying souvenir cups filled with cocktails, we made our way to our seats. One of the Jabbawockeez was already entertaining the crowd as everyone got seated.

Our seats were right in the middle, which turned out to be the best seats. It was an intimate theater, so all the seats were good seats as far as seeing the action. Our seats just weren't too far away nor too close to the stage so we could see the whole show. It was an amazing show!

The choreography and the tricks were the best, but I expected that. Even on the amateur talent show years ago, their dancing was outstanding. What really made the show was the music, the lights, the costumes, the crowd interaction and the humor. I died when they brought up a women from the front row and measured her butt. When "Big booty hoe" started playing, I busted up laughing. That was the only reason I would wanna be up front: crowd participation. But even after the show, they ran through the crowd and hi fived everyone.

We all loved it. Even Jake and he only came because I wanted to see it.

"Gotta admit, that was the best show I've seen in Vegas. Ever." Jake confessed as we walked out the theater.

I grabbed his arm, beaming at him. "I told you babe! They're amazing! So much more than just dancing." I exclaimed.

"I don't know about y'all, but that made me wanna go dancing." Brandon declared.

"Yes!!!" Jasmine and I agreed, enthusiastically. Rocky grinned.

"I know a club on the strip..." Malik offered.

"Let's wait for the others." Jake said.

We all went back to Jake's and my room. While Jake texted the rest of them, Malik pulled up the club on his phone. I went ahead and reserved VIP seating that included bottle service. I spent my winnings, but it would be worth it not to worry about the lines.

"Grambling won the State Fair Classic." I heard Brandon tell Rocky. The State Fair of Texas started this weekend. It was at Fair Park, with the Cotton Ball Stadium right in the middle. The State Fair was famous (or infamous) for a few reasons: being huge, frying everything (fried butter was a hit with Oprah), and football. It hosted a ton of college football games. Including the Red River Rivalry of OU and UT and the State Fair Classic of Grambling and Prairie View A&M.

Rocky looked at his phone. "Awww, look at the kids. They look so cute. Lily, come see!"

"Later." I said, pretending like I was busy on my phone. Ethan graduated from Prairie View and Will, Amber's husband, went to Grambling for a year. I knew those were the kids in the picture. Not going to lie, it was weird they were all hanging out, but Ethan didn't want to be my friend. I wasn't trying to dwell on it. That's why I didn't wanna see the picture right now. I got up instead and made my way to the wet bar. I poured a shot of tequila into a Scarface shot glass Omar brought Jake and drank it down.

"So it's going be that type of night?" Jake asked me, taking my shot glass and pouring one for himself.

"That's right. Turn up!"

----------------------

And that was the official theme for the rest of the night. Omar and Kelly ended up not joining us. She had too much to drink and was feeling sick. Colton, Frankie and Tonya did and we walked to the club together. We had a minimal wait because we reserved a table. Still too long for Rocky's taste cause I paid for the overpriced bottle service, but well worth it in my opinion. We sat and drank before making our way to the dance floor. I was having so much fun dancing with everyone. The DJ was from another country and was really becoming popular here according to Reggie. It was mostly house music with hip hop and pop mixed in. I was loving the mix. Especially when he played some Maroon5.

When Adam Levine's sexy voice cut over the house beats, I started dancing against Jake, my back against his front.

"Don't tell no lie, lie lie lie
You can't deny, ny ny ny
That beast inside, side side side
Yeah yeah yeah"

I sang along with the song while grinding my hips against Jake's groin. He quickly turned me around and wrapped his arms around my waist. I smiled and placed my hands around his neck. I distinctively remember hearing Adam Levine howling over the speakers before I recall nothing but Jake's kiss. It was deep, hungry, almost desperate as he claimed my lips with his. I was breathless when he finally pulled away.

"Can we leave Cariño?" He asked.

Even in the flashing lights of the club, I saw the intensity in his eyes. I nodded, unable to speak. He pointed to the front to Frankie, signaling that we were leaving. When Frankie nodded, Jake took my hand and led the way out the club. I followed closely behind him.

We caught a taxi on the way back. It was way overpriced for the short distance, but I would have paid double just to get to the hotel as fast as possible.

We barely made it to the room. His lips were glued to mine in the elevator and his fingers were already between my legs. I was sure someone was getting a show from the cameras, but I was also sure whoever it was seen worse.

When the elevator door opened, he pulled me out the elevator. He unlocked the door and led me into our room. I turned to close and lock the door. When I turned back around, he trapped me between his body and the door. I melted against him when he pressed his lips against mine. His hands were everywhere as our lips embraced: My thighs, stomach, butt, under my tank, then under my bra. My hands reached between our bodies to unbutton his jeans.

"Bedroom." He groaned, pulling back.

"No." I panted, working on his zipper.

"Condoms." He said.

"I'm on birth control."

Jake lifted my chin so our eyes locked. "Are you sure?"

I nodded, impatiently. "Yes. I need you."

He then lifted my leg up, pushing me against the door. He pushed my skirt higher on my thighs and pulled my panties to the side. In one hard thrust, he was all the way inside of me. I gasped at the feeling of him and nothing else.

"Cada día que pasa te amo más. Estoy enamorada de ti. {Every day I love you more. I'm in love with you.}" He moaned between kisses as he pumped his hips into me.

"I.. love you... too Jake. So... much..." I said, between breaths as he thrust deeper inside me.

He lifted my other leg so he was holding me. I wrapped my arms and legs around him as he carried me to the bed. We spent the rest of the night expressing our love through words and our bodies.

Luck Be A Lady

"A lady doesn't leave her escort
It isn't fair. It isn't nice.
A lady doesn't wander all over the room
And blow on some other guy's dice
Lets keep the party polite
Never get out of my sight
Stick with me baby, I'm the fella you came in with.
Luck be lady tonight." Luck Be A Lady by Frank Sinatra 

Jake called me when they arrived in Vegas Thursday. I told him to live it up and enjoy his time without me. He responded by saying he was counting down the seconds until I got there. Judging by the pictures, he wasn't desperately awaiting my arrival like he claimed, but I was glad he was having fun. I couldn't wait to join in.

Friday went by soooo slowly. Jordan and I looked through my Facebook to see all the pictures they posted of the Luxor and the whole group hanging by the pool with drinks. Rocky texted me a picture of the steak and seafood dinner she had with Brandon. I texted her back that they looked really good together, but the food looked better!

I already had a game plan to ensure no drama, fights, or misunderstandings. My plan was to be the perfect girlfriend to Jake. I was going to stick by his side, cater to him and show him he had no reason to ever doubt my loyalty or feelings for him. He would never have to fear me cheating on him. I hoped that would help with his trust issues. He was willing to work with me. I didn't mind working with him now that I knew what the issue was.

My plan also erased the uncomfortable feeling about being around everyone. Once they saw how good we were together, they would get over whatever misconceptions they had about me. As long as they saw we were in a committed relationship, that's what mattered to me. And my behavior would definitely show that!

I ducked out of the clinic as soon as my last appointment was over. I didn't even bring my work bag. I left it in the car so I would have no reason to pass by Sandra's office. I left with my patient and rushed home.

I took a 5 minute shower, changed into a maxi dress and cardigan, then called a cab. I double checked to make sure I had everything I needed in my 3 bags. I had a rolling luggage bag, a matching carry on bag and my purse. I wasn't checking in any bags. I was trying to save time and money.

When the cab arrived, I threw my things in the trunk and hopped in. We barely beat the traffic. I could tell it was already starting to get heavy. I thanked the driver, paid and tipped him before heading to my gate.

35 minutes later, I was at my terminal. I found an  empty seat and pulled out my phone. I had missed calls from Jasmine and Jake. I called Jake back first.

"Hey Cariño. Did you get off on time?" Jake questioned.

"I did. I'm at the airport right now."

"Give Jasmine a call. They should be there soon."

"She was my next call babe."

"Ok. Call me before you board."

"Will do."

After I got off the phone, I called Jasmine. She informed me they were waiting at the TSA check. I told her where she could find me at our terminal. 15 minutes later, they were joining me. After we said hello, we headed to a bar. I requested wine. I wanted to sleep on the plane ride so I would be well rested for the night. When Reggie left to retrieve our drinks, Jasmine turned to me.

"So you and Jake ok?" She asked.

"Yeah. No thanks to you. What did you tell him? He thought I didn't want to come."

"I stretched the truth a little and said you were debating coming,.. Only because he thought y'all were cool." Jasmine replied.

"We were. Everyone else is making a big deal of it." I countered.

"Lily, we couldn't even talk about it without you looking ready to cry. I love y'all together. I love my brother, but don't be afraid to call him out on his bullshit. You don't deserve to pay for what that bitch put him through." Jasmine finished before Reggie came back.

I drank two glasses of wine before I settled my bill and we headed back to the terminal. I called Jake as we were boarding. I told him I would call when we arrived. By the time the plane was ascending, I was knocked out.

I slept through majority of our flight. Vegas was two hours behind our time, so it was still early in the evening when we arrived. I tried to call Jake, but he didn't answer. I texted him while we waited to get off the plane.

We hurried to the baggage claim to retrieve their bag. While they waited, I went to the bathroom. I was debating grabbing something to eat. I hadn't eaten since breakfast, but food left my mind when I saw Jake standing with Jasmine and Reggie. I rushed right over. He smiled at me as I hugged him. I realized it had only been a day, but I was so excited to see him.

"What are you doing here? I thought we were meeting at the hotel?" I asked him.

"I didn't wanna wait any more seconds."

I grinned and kissed him.

"Awww, how cute!" Jasmine cheered.

Jake grabbed my hand and led us to the exit. We piled into a taxi van. Jake told the driver the location before filling us in on the plans for the night. Apparently Omar set up reservations for dinner at a restaurant at the casino resort. Afterwards, Jake wanted to gamble. We had about an hour and a half before dinner.

I couldn't wait to explore the resort, so Jake and I left Jasmine and Reggie to check in while we went to our room. I took in the decor on the way. The Egyptian theme was very well done. The elevator ride was an experience itself. Since the hotel was a pyramid, it traveled up the slanted sides at an angle. It felt like we were going sideways. It was so cool.

When we got to our floor, I stopped to look over the balcony. It was like I was overlooking an alternative Egyptian universe, just with flashing lights and slot machines. I adored it.

"Ohmigosh. I'm so excited!" I gushed to Jake. He gave me a smile.

"Come check out the room." He said, waving me over. I followed him. He pulled out the hotel key and opened the door.

I walked in and was immediately surprised. It was a different room then the one he showed me online. It was bigger, with a separate living area including a wet bar and a breakfast nook. The view from the window included the strip and a great view of the surrounding hotels. The bedroom had a king bed and the same view as the living room. Even the bathroom was impressive, with a separate shower and bath and dual vanity.

"Jake, this is not the same room, but it's so nice!" I smiled.

"Birthday upgrade." He revealed, watching me as I stood in the window.

"The view was amazing last night, right?" I asked Jake. I was sure it would be at night with the hotels, casinos and airport lit up.

"It's better right now." He informed me as he walked over to me.

"Really? Even without the strippers?" I teased him. He wrapped his arms around me.

"There were no strippers here last night." He said, before kissing me on my neck.

"That's not what I heard..." I shuddered, as his lips sent sparks all over my body.

"You heard wrong." He turned me around so I was facing him and leaned his forehead against mine.

"Thank you for coming Lily and for putting up with me. I promise from now on I'm gonna be worthy of being your boyfriend."

I pulled my head back to look up into his eyes. "Jake, you already are. There's no place I'd rather be than right here with you."

He leaned in to kiss me. His kiss started of sweet and gentle, but intensified as we held each other closer. The only thing that stopped our make out was my stomach growling.

Jake pulled away. "I'm guessing there is another place you'd rather be. Anywhere with food?" He grinned.

"Shut up! I worked through my lunch today. I only had time for wine at the airport." I told him.

"Get dressed. I'll go get you something to snack on."

"Ok."

He left and I jumped in the shower. I hurried out when I heard the room phone ringing. It was Jasmine, asking if I wanted to get dressed with her. I told her I already took a shower and she replied she could come to our room. I told her to give me five minutes and I would call her back.

I texted Jake to make sure he was ok with that. When he replied that he was, I called her and Rocky to see if everyone wanted to get dressed together. Jasmine told me she would call Kelly and Tanya, Jake's cousin's girlfriend, to see if they wanted to join. 10 minutes later, Jasmine, Rocky, and Brandon had made it over.

I guessed Rocky was right about Brandon needing to relax. He actually greeted me with a genuine smile and hug. It was before Jake returned with a slice of pizza from the food court, so I knew it wasn't for Jake's benefit.

Brandon cocked an eyebrow at me after Jake surrendered the slice of pizza. "You know we're getting dressed to go eat right?"

"Yeah, but I'm hungry now." I informed him, taking a hearty bite of the pepperoni pizza.

"Who said something about you showing your inner fat kid?" Rocky mused.

"Whatever... Where are we going to eat anyway?" I asked Jake, changing the subject. Forrest made that comment, but I didn't wanna talk about him around Jake.

"I'm not sure." Jake answered. There was a knock at the door and he went to go answer it. Kelly and Omar joined us in the living area.

"What restaurant are we going to?" Jake asked Omar.

"Tacos and Tequila." Omar answered.

I grinned at Jake. "Typical. Are we going to wear sombreros and dance in a circle too?" I joked.

Jake laughed while Omar turned to me.

"You do know the guy you're dating is Mexican?" He asked me.

I gave Omar a fake, sugary sweet smile. "I sure do. I even brought a pinata for his birthday."

Everyone laughed but Omar.

"She's joking Omar." Jake smiled.

When the boys left, we got glammed up for the night. Jasmine helped everyone with their hair. Rocky even talked to her about setting up a hair appointment cause she was ready for something different.

Rocky and I put on the Bebe dresses we bought at the mall. Rocky had her hair in upright pinned curls that fell to her neck. It looked amazing with her subtle, fresh faced make-up and sexy yellow dress. I wore my hair straight, all pushed over one side of my shoulder with my bangs swept over my forehead. I wanted to make sure my hair didn't cover up the cut out back of the dress. My make-up was more dramatic featuring gold shimmer and coral pink lipstick.

Jasmine wore her Express dress. Her make-up looked amazing with fake lashes and bold red lipstick. Her hair was in thick, wild, sexy curls.

Kelly wore a navy blue jumpsuit that her breasts looked amazing in. Even I couldn't help looking. Her make-up was the most dramatic, with thick dark liner and wine red lips. It looked stunning with her black hair flowing in waves like a dark curtain framing her face.

We got looks from both men and women as we made our way down to the lobby. The only person's attention I wanted was Jake's. Warmth spread throughout my body at his heated glaze. He looked me over twice from the top of my head to the point of the heels he bought me before he stood from the lounger he was sitting on.

He looked a sexy mixture of casual but dressy in dark khakis and a forest green v-neck shirt.

"Cariño, you look so beautiful." He said, as I settled by his side.

I smiled at the surprised quality in his tone.

"Sounds like you had doubts..."

"Not at all. You just look better than I could imagine."

"Good answer." I said, kissing him on the cheek." You look good too."

Malik and Colton were already at the restaurant. When Frankie and Tonya showed up, we made our way over there too.

We were seated right away at a large table. It was a good thing Omar made reservations because it was crowded, but I wasn't giving him any kudos.

"What are you getting?" Jake asked me, as I perused the menu.

"Tacos and tequila." I answered.

Jake laughed at me. "For real..."

I laughed too. "I am! Just trying to figure out which ones. I didn't realize there was so many types of tequila."

"Let's do a flight." Jake suggested.

"What is that?" I asked him.

"You'll see."

A flight ended up being a tower of different tequila shots. I was sure there were differences in the flavor, but by my 4th sample shot, I couldn't tell the fucking difference.

Everyone took shots. Our table was growing more loud and obnoxious, but in a fun way (I hoped). Eventually, we went around the table and all toasted the birthday boy.

Malik started it off. "Happy birthday man! I would wish you happiness and love and success and shit, but looking around this table, I know you got it!"

"I wish you more happiness, love, success and shit." Colton followed up. I laughed at him.

"To the last year of your 20s! Time to turn up!" Brandon said in his Kevin Hart voice. We all busted up laughing.

"Turn it down. You're too damn old primo!" Frankie grinned. Jake laughed harder.

"Happy birthday big brother." Jasmine smiled at him. "And you're only as old as you feel!"

"And how you act. Here's to growing the fuck up." Rocky toasted, with a wry smile on her face. To everyone else, it seemed playful, but I could tell by the look in her eyes, she was dead serious.

"Ouch!" Rocky exclaimed when I "accidentally" stepped on her toe. She glared at me.

"My bad." I smiled.

"As someone who has grown up with you, I just wanna say I'm proud of you." Omar started. "You've been my best friend since the 2nd grade. We've seen so many different people come and go, but we're still best friends. More than that, we're family. That means we stick together no matter what." Omar went on.

Jake nodded at him. I literally had to focus on my tacos sitting in front of me to keep from rolling my eyes. Come on dude. I knew we had been drinking, but fuck! Just say happy birthday and keep it fucking moving.

"We came so far together. I feel like we made it man! So I do wanna wish you a happy birthday. And happiness, success, love. But wisdom too. So come next year, we'll be right here. Maybe upgraded, but right here." Omar finally finished. I could have sworn he eyeballed me on that last sentence... I wanted to ask him what the fuck he meant by that, but I bit my tongue, again. I was afraid my tongue was going to bleed!

"What da?.." Rocky muttered under her breath as Jake and Omar took a shot together. She looked at Brandon and me."What the fuck is this? Started from the bottom now we're here? Drake looking ass-"

"Rocky!" I interrupted her, holding my laughter. Barely. Brandon didn't. He laughed out loud. Rocky joined him.

"What's so funny?" Jake asked, putting his arm around me to pull me closer,

"Nothing. I just wanna say happy birthday. I wish I could make it like your birthday every day. And be your gift. And give you something good to celebrate!" I blurted out, smiling.

"Really cariño? I've listened to your horrible music long enough to know that's a song." Jake grinned.

Kelly smiled. "I thought that sounded familiar."

"Katy Perry." Jasmine laughed.

"Would you rather I sing Las Mañanitas to you?" I asked.

"No babe. Stick to Katy Perry." Jake said quickly.

Everyone laughed as I kissed him on the lips. I flashed a smile to Omar when I pulled away. He just stared at us.

After dinner, which was delicious, we made our way to the casino. Jake wanted to play at the tables. Watching him play wasn't my first choice of entertainment, but I wasn't leaving Jake's side.

Jake surprised me by making me sit at the blackjack table.

"Jake, no. I have no idea how to bet."

"I got that. Just play your hand." He said, standing behind me with his hand resting on my waist.

"How much is that?" I asked, as he placed the bet on the table.

"Don't worry about that." Jake smiled.

"Jake, no! At least use my money." I protested.

"Shut up and play your hand."

Alright then.

I did. And lost.

"I can't focus until I know how much the chips are!" I complained.

Jake then told me the amounts. And I played the next hand. And lost.

"What's your excuse now?" Jake laughed.

"You shut up!"

After a few more hands, I had the betting down and Jake sat beside me and played his own hand. Now that I had the betting down, I was having so much fun. The free drinks while we gambled definitely kept me in high spirits. Even as I lost my money and Omar and Kelly joined us. In between tables, Jake and I planned what we would do if we hit it big.

"I'm gonna buy a plane." He announced to us."Then I'm going to quit my job, learn how to fly it and just go wherever I want. Barbados one week. Then Spain the next." He explained.

"Babe! You can come visit me on the island I'm going to buy!" I said, as we made our way around the casino. We were trying to find a roulette table. Jake had a feeling. He needed to bet his money on odd red.

"An island? Really?" Kelly smiled.

"Yes. Lilyland. Or Lilytopia. Or just Lily's island." I contemplated.

"You don't wanna travel with me?" Jake asked.

"I do, but the island will be our home and investment. So we don't run out of money." I planned out.

"Why isn't his name in the title then?" Omar asked.

"Cause that's douche-y. You can name the plane Jake. THERE IT IS!!!" I exclaimed, excitedly, pointing out the roulette table.

Jake pulled out the rest of his chips.

"Wait!" I said, pulling out my chips too. "You bet red. I'll bet odd."

"No." He laughed. "What if my feeling is wrong?"

"Shhhh!" I said, covering his mouth. "Besides, it's not my money. It's my dad's."

"Your dad gave you money?" Jake asked.

I rolled my eyes. "Yes. He's such a control freak. It's ridiculous. He thinks of the worst case scenarios and then sends me money like it will prevent it from happening."

I placed my money on odd. Jake placed his on red. Kelly and Omar just watched. When the ball landed on red 27, Jake and I both freaked the fuck out.

"No fucking way!" Omar exclaimed, as Jake and I laughed.

"Ohmigod! Is that enough for my island?" I shrieked.

Jake shook his head. "No, but it's a start."

"How did you do that? Birthday luck?" I interrogated Jake.

"Naw. I got lucky before my birthday." Jake said, pulling me close to him. His kissed me passionately on the lips. I almost forgot where we were, until the dealer cut in.

"Are you pressing your luck?" He asked.

"Fuck no!" I exclaimed, pulling away. We quickly pulled our money from the table.

"Ready to go upstairs and get lucky?" Jake whispered in my ear after we gathered our chips.

I flushed. "Whatever you want. It's your birthday."

Jake grinned. " Remember you said that." He turned around to Omar and Kelly. "We're going to our room. See y'all in the morning."

"See ya."

"Goodnight."

I smiled at them before grabbing Jake's arm as we headed to our room.

A Woman's Worth (Rocky's POV)

So I got some request for Rocky and Brandon back story and flashbacks so here it is!


"Cause a real man knows a real woman when he sees her 
And a real woman knows a real man ain't afraid to please her 
And a real woman knows a real man always comes first 
And a real man just can't deny a woman's worth" A Woman's Worth by Alicia Keys

***Rocky's Perspective***

When I came home Wednesday night, Brandon and EJ were in the living room, playing some game.

"Hey man! You're supposed to have my back! Where were you when that alien killed me?" Brandon exclaimed as I walked in.

"I can't keep saving you! I needed life. I was about to die." EJ replied, focusing on the game.

"Hi EJ. Hi Brandon." I waved at them.

"Hey Racqelle." EJ said, never taking his eyes off the game.

"Hey. How was work?" Brandon at least put his controller down.

"It was fine. Keep playing. I'm gonna change and start dinner." I said.

"Already done." Brandon said.

"What is it? Spaghetti, hamburgers or fried fish?" I asked, dryly.

"None. Spaghetti bake." He replied.

I shook my head and sat down on the couch next to them. We've been living together for about 8 months now, but Brandon still had yet to add any other meals to his repertoire. At least he tried. When he first moved in, he thought I was gonna keep up everything on my own while he helped out when he felt like it. I nipped that in the bud quick.

I watched them play while I relaxed. I was relieved I didn't have to cook. I appreciated Brandon for that. I didn't even have to ask him to do it. I didn't resist when he handed me the controller to play. Since he cooked dinner, I had time for childish games. I lasted for like 2 minutes despite Brandon's instructions. I gave up and went to my room to get ready for dinner.

I changed into a pair of jeans and a t-shirt before heading in to the kitchen. Brandon, EJ and I set the table. Afterwards, we sat down and ate in silence. EJ was engrossed in his food, Brandon was watching him proudly and my mind was on the conversation I had with my mom.

I love my mom, but our personalities just clash. People say it's cause we're too much alike. I say it's cause she lost her damn mind, so don't compare me to that crazy chick. It got worse when all her kids were grown up and out of the house. She reverted to her pre-children days of dressing more revealing and partying. The last time I went home was last year for her birthday. I found her drinking and smoking with her boyfriend who looked somewhere in his 20s. I hadn't been back. But that's how our relationship works. We love each other, from a distance.

When I called her out of the blue, she knew something was up.

"Did you finally break up with that scrub?" She asked, excitedly.

I rolled my eyes. "No momma. And how is he a scrub? He has a job and a car and no kids. All things none of your men have ever had." I reminded her.

"I don't have them laying up with me, playing house. We do what it do and they bounce." She cracked herself up.

"Anyway..." I said, disgusted. Her slang is always about 5 years off. She still called other women chickenheads.  "I actually wanted to talk to you about Lily."

I explained the situation, as much as I knew about it. I was sure there was more going on. Lily didn't even tell me about this fight. If Sammy wasn't there, I would have never known.

"Um, baby girl, that doesn't sound good... have you ever seen him angry?" My mom asked.

"No. Never. That's the craziest part to me. He's normally easy going and non-confrontational. At least that's how I read him before and you know I can read people. Especially men." I boasted.

"Well, you can't attack him. That's just gonna make her feel like she ain't got nobody but him..." My mom informed me.

She would know. Her first and only husband was abusive. He would yell and curse and break things in his anger. My mom made excuse after excuse for his sorry self. She stayed with him cause she didn't know how else she was gonna raise her boys without him. During one of his rages, he slammed open a door, smashing into my half brother and breaking his nose. She left him that night and never looked back. That's why she always instilled in me to never need a man for nothing.

That mantra was probably why she was attracted to my deadbeat dad. He didn't have anything to offer. I knew my conception was a mistake, but she had me and raised me with little help from him. But that's another story.

"What am I supposed to do? She's on some work it out, stick by my man, ride or die bullshit momma. I can't just passively watch this happen." I told her.

I heard my mom smack her lips over the phone. "You just have to stick with her and let her know she's worth more than that. You can see it all day long child, but she ain't gonna leave until she sees it. Just pray that she does before it gets worse."

"Alright momma."

"I guess that's one thing about yo man. If he ever gets outta line, you can just put him out. It is your house." She laughed.

"Bye Momma."

"Rocky!?!" Brandon called me, pulling me out of my thoughts. I looked up. "EJ asked you to pass the Parmesan."

"Sure baby. Sorry about that." I said to EJ, handing him the cheese. I watched him liberally shake the cheese on his pasta.

"Uncle can throw down in the kitchen, right EJ?" Brandon bragged.

EJ nodded as he put a fork full of spaghetti, pepperoni and cheese in his mouth.

We both looked up when the front door opened. I greeted Ethan as he walked in.

"Hey Bro, just in time. Pull up a chair." Brandon invited him to join us.

"Thanks Brandon. Let me go wash my hands. How's it going Rocky?" Ethan asked me.

"Same old same old." I answered. He nodded before leaving to wash his hands.

He returned with a plate and joined us at the table.

"Why did I have to come on a day Brandon cooked?" Ethan asked out loud.

I laughed. "We were just talking about how Brandon can cook, 3 things." I agreed, sarcastically.

"Don't hate." Brandon laughed. "She's just mad that she's ok at a lot of things, but excels at nothing."

"What does excels means?" EJ asked.

"It means you're the best at something." Ethan explained.

"Oh. Like I excel Brandon in video games?" EJ asked.

We all laughed. "Something like that."

After dinner, Ethan and EJ got ready to leave. He wished us a safe trip and specifically asked me to pass it on to everyone else. I knew he meant Lily. I know I was all for Jake in the beginning. Now I wish I didn't discourage Lily from dating Ethan. I felt like maybe if she had more experience, she wouldn't be falling for Jake's mind games. And say what you want about Ethan, but he was about his business. No nonsense.

"What's up with you?" Brandon asked, while we finished cleaning the kitchen.

"What do you mean?" I sighed, as I put dishes in the dishwasher. I wasn't in the mood for his attitude. I had too much on my mind.

"That's the second time you zoned out on me. What is it?" He asked, annoyed.

"I'm just thinking about this trip. Really about Lily and Jake." I explained.

"Don't. They're grown. Their mistakes are their problems." Brandon said, dismissively.

"I know, but that's my friend..."

"But nothing." Brandon cut me off. "Jake is my friend but I told him how I felt about them, so I'm leaving it alone. This is our vacation too. I'm not ruining it on Lily and her drama." Brandon finished.

I looked up at him, my blood boiling. I had been pushing his comments and his attempts to start fights aside. I knew back to school season was hard for retail and it was going get harder with the holiday season coming up, but I was fed up with his bullshit attitude and his anti-Lily campaign.

"You know what Brandon? I don't give a damn about this trip. I don't wanna celebrate your friend's birthday after the shit he's been pulling with Lily. And I'm getting fed up with your drama. I don't even wanna vacation with you!" I hissed, slamming the dishwasher closed. I pivoted and went to our room. I glared at him the whole time. He looked surprised by my outburst. He shouldn't be. He had been pushing my buttons since labor day. I closed the bedroom door and locked it.

I began to pack my suitcase. I couldn't help but notice the irony of the situation. Brandon calling Lily a bitch is what brought us together.

***Flashback***

"I'm only staying till 12am. If you need a ride, that's what time we're leaving!" I informed Jackie.

Jackie dragged me out on another Friday night. I knew I was being lame, but I missed Lily. After she moved to California, I felt like I had empty nest syndrome. Trevor was spending more time in Austin and even when he was here, he wasn't the same. I guess he was getting used to Lily being gone too.

Jackie decided I needed to get out. Get some drinks. Turn down guys. At least she picked my favorite bar and not some loud hot club. That whole scene just made me loud and hot. Especially having to fight off aggressive, don't-take-the-I'm-not-interested-hint losers that frequented the clubs.

"Alright. Damn. You need to get laid." Jackie exclaimed, loudly. A couple guys looked our way, but my menacing glare made them turn away.

I was surprised to see my favorite guy to turn down hanging at the bar. Brandon wasn't used to the Dallas area. He moved in with his brother after Ethan found out his fiancee was cheating on him. He was helping out with his nephew EJ since he had nothing better to do, like work.

Brandon always tried to make small talk with me on places to go to eat and drink. I entertained him, but always turned down his offer of going out on a date. I knew his type. Player. He was also younger than me, and had absolutely nothing to offer but his good looks and maybe the fact that he was my perfect little punching bag for verbal assaults. No matter what I said, he kept steady, ready for more. I didn't know if I admired or despised that...

"Hey. I haven't seen you out recently. Busy?" I asked Brandon as I stepped next to him by the bar.

He turned to face me and gave me a little smile. "I stay busy." He replied, simply.

"With what? Finally found a job?" I smirked.

"Nope, still working on it." He answered, taking a sip of his drink. I noticed he looked me over in my little black dress. He wasn't slick.

"Good luck. I'm sure a fortune 500 job will fall into your lap and will love the fact that you have no work experience." I said with a condescending smile.

"Look, I've already had to deal with your friend in California in bitch mode. I don't have the time for this." Brandon announced, turning to face the bar again.

I was shocked. Normally he would say something sarcastic or stupid when I was getting on to him.

But I quickly recovered. "I won't waste anymore of your time then. Good night." I said, before turning to join Jackie. I focused on her and the guys trying to buy us drink. Until I saw Brandon leave with a girl. We locked eyes before I turned away from him.

That night when I got home, I called Lily. When she explained to me about going behind Ethan's back to talk to EJ, I understood Brandon's frustration. I lectured her about it and she cried. That was emotional, even for her. I asked her for Brandon's number. She asked why, but I just told her to give it to me. I knew he was probably busy with that hoe he left with, but I texted Brandon anyway.

Me- Hey. This is Racqelle . Lily knows what she did was wrong and she feels horrible. But her intentions were good. She loves that little boy and would do anything for him. Don't shut him off from that.

I was surprised when he texted back right away.

Brandon- I wouldn't. I just wish she didn't hurt my brother in the process.

I didn't respond, even though I knew Lily was hurting too. I already had that talk with Lily. She wasn't changing her mind. She wanted to be in California.

--------------------------

A couple months later, I was out of my funk. I started going out with Peyton and Jackie and forcing Trevor out with us too. I met an insurance agent named Dennis. We were talking and casually dating when Brandon texted me.

Brandon- So I got that fortune 500 executive job...

I text him back.

Me-???

I didn't wanna seem interested. Or like I thought about that conversation when he dissed and dismissed me.

Brandon- Target. I'm gonna be an executive at a store

Me- Nice. Congratulations!

Brandon- Thanks. It's not where I wanna be, but it's experience.

Me- That's ok. Build up the resume.

Brandon- ha. That's what my bro said.

Me- How is he doing?

Brandon- He's good. I get my first paycheck in a week. Go out with me to celebrate.

Me- I can't... I'm dating someone.

Brandon- Ok. Is he your man?

Me- Not yet.

Brandon- It would take one date for me to make you my woman. He doesn't appreciate you.

Me- Says the man who asked me out by text.

Brandon- Hey, I tried face to face! Way before this guy...

Me- And the last time I saw you, you were pulling hoes from the bar...

Brandon-If he's not your man by my second paycheck, then you're going out with me.

Me- We'll see.

I put my phone away knowing nothing was going to happen with Dennis until I had one date with Brandon. I was curious about him. I know, curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back.

--------------------

***PRESENT***

"Rocky?" My memory was interrupted by Brandon knocking on the door. I paused from packing and went to open the door. I stalked away from him as soon as the door was open.

"What are you doing?" He asked me nervously as he watched me put clothes in my luggage.

"Packing for Vegas genius." I said, rolling my eyes.

"I thought you weren't going to go." Brandon said, but his relief was visible.

"Oh, I am. I said I wasn't going to celebrate his birthday or go on vacation with you. I can find another hotel and I can keep myself entertained." I replied.

Brandon pulled me to him and walked us to the bed. We laid down on top of the covers.

"I'm sorry. I know that's your friend-" He started.

"It's not about her being my friend. I admitted when she was wrong to Ethan and I called her out on it. It's about right and wrong. Jake is so wrong right now. It shouldn't matter what you think of Lily." I finished.

"Omar told me they had a fight. He said Lily was talking to another guy."

I scoffed. "That's not what happened. Jake blew the whole situation out of proportion."

"What did he do?" Brandon asked. I told him. Brandon looked shocked when I finished. Then he just looked sad.

"He's wrong. He's so wrong. What the hell is he doing?" He said, shaking his head.

"Does he have anger issues? Do you think he would hurt her?" I asked, concerned.

"No. Hell no. He would never hit her. Rocky, I will talk to him. This shit will stop." He reassured me.

I nodded. "What's going on with us Brandon?" I asked him bluntly. Normally, I would let it go, but Lily was right about one thing. We needed to address our issues and not just bicker all the time.

"What do you mean?" He sighed.

"We haven't been ok since Labor Day." I answered.

He was quiet for a minute. "Do you really wanna get married?"

"Brandon. No... I'm not pushing for an engagement!" I said vehemently. I knew the fastest way to scare a guy away was to pressure him to put a ring on it.

"No. I meant, would you be happy marrying me? Or do you want to get married in general? I know I'm not where I want to be career wise and that's important to you." Brandon said.

"No, Brandon. I love you. When I think of our future, I don't envision you as a CEO or running a business."

He frowned at that.

"Baby listen. When I think about the future, I see us like we were tonight. You teaching me how to play shoot the alien game. Me teaching you how to cook so our babies can eat more than spaghetti when it's your turn to make dinner. It's just us, working together. Bickering and laughing.  That's what I see. And that makes me happy. Everything else is just extra." I explained.

He smiled as I spoke. It lit up his face so much, it made me smile too. He hadn't looked joyful like that in too long.

"I knew you wanted to have my baby." He grinned.

"Hush boy!"

"You said babies... how many kids do you want?" He questioned, rolling on top of me.

"Considering I have to deal with you, maybe we should start with a dog. We can practice and see how that goes."

"Nope. Let's practice on making a baby." He laughed, pulling away my clothes. I laughed and helped him remove his clothes too.

Down Here in Hell

"What would I do if we were perfect?
Where would I go for disappointment?
Love without pain would leave me wondering why I stay.
And I think of savin' myself
But with nothin' to complain about up in Heaven
What would I do?
I think of savin' myself
But I really wanna work it out
Down here in Hell with you"- Down Here in Hell by Van Hunt

I woke up Sunday morning, restless. The uneasy feeling hadn't gone away. Jake wasn't in bed. I could hear him out in the kitchen. I took a deep breath then exhaled slowly. I grabbed my phone. It was already 10am. The uneasiness turned to dread as I read the long ass text Sammy sent me.

Sammy- I can't believe you left with him after he treated you like that. He was such an asshole! He had no right to go through your phone or make you leave. And what's even worst is that you put up with it! Obviously you're used to it! Don't be one of those girls that lets a boyfriend rule their lives. It's pathetic.

I frowned, upset. I didn't get it. This was the same person that was telling me I was stupid for being inappropriate with Trevor on Facebook. Then she brought up Corey like we dated when she knows how Jake gets. But now I am the pathetic girl that lets my boyfriend rule my life?

Jake didn't make me leave. I wanted to get the hell outta there because it was hostile, thanks to her comment and Jake's reaction to it.

I couldn't defend him being an asshole. I felt my cheeks burn just remembering how embarrassed I was last night. If I was being honest, that was the biggest reason why I wanted to leave. I tried to prevent an argument in front of them, but I felt and looked... well, pathetic.

I was sitting on the bed, thinking things over, when Jake returned to his room. He was carrying a plate full of food, a mug of coffee and what looked like a card.

"Good morning cariño." He said, with a smile.

"Morning." I said, not even attempting to smile back. I just didn't have it in me to just push everything aside and pretend like we were ok.

He set the plate and coffee down on the night stand on his side of the bed. He motioned me over. The smell of bacon and waffles was tempting, but the card he was holding held my attention. I sat, cross legged on the edge of the bed. He handed the card to me. The front read:

I'm a dick...

I smirked. No arguments here.

I opened the card up.

I'm addicted to you.

I looked up at him with a straight face. "You really were a dick last night."

"I know and I'm sorry." He kneeled in front of me. "Lily, I knew there was something between us after our first kiss and I tried to fight it. But the more I was around you, the stronger it got. I couldn't see anyone but you. The thought of you dating another guy back then just completely fucked me up."

"I wasn't seeing anyone, but even if I was, we weren't together." I pointed out, looking into his eyes.

He put his arms around me. "I know. You could have dated whoever you wanted. But for me, no other woman compared to you. Now and back then. The thought that you didn't feel the same... It sucked." Jake explained.

"I did feel the same. That's why I never went out with him. You were the only one on my mind Jake." I said, sincerely.

He brought me closer and kissed me deeply.

"I'm sorry cariño." He said against my lips.

I nodded.

He looked at me. "Do you forgive me?"

"Maybe. Let me eat first then I'll think about it." I smiled.

We spent the rest of the day together, watching football and relaxing. The incident was completely forgotten about until he drove me home. I groaned inwardly when I saw Sammy's car. I ignored her text. I couldn't ignore her face to face.

I gave Jake one last lingering kiss before I went to my door. When the deadbolt was locked, I sighed and knocked. Moments later, Sammy opened the door. She looked around me.

"Where's Jake?" She asked, hands on her hips.

"He just dropped me off." I said, stepping into the townhome.

"Fucking coward." She spat.

"Look, he knows he was wrong and he apologized. Can you let it go?" I sighed.

"What did he apologize for? Embarrassing you? Forcing you to leave? Being an overall dickhead and ruining the day?" Sammy asked.

"Don't be so dramatic. The day wasn't ruined." I deflected. Jake did apologize. We just never specifically clarified why he was sorry...

"He demanded to go through your phone, but I'm dramatic?" Sammy exclaimed.

I just looked away.

"Lily, I just don't like the changes I've seen in you..."

"What are you talking about? You called me selfish, immature brat. Not even 2 week ago you said I was stupid and I needed to change the way I was. Or does that only apply to Trevor?" I accused her.

"This has nothing to do with Trevor!" She snapped back.

"Well please let me know cause I can't fucking keep up with everything that is wrong with me!" I exclaimed, flopping on the couch.

She looked at me, sadly, and joined me.

"There is nothing wrong with you." Sammy started, shaking my shoulders. "Yeah, you are a brat. And you can be childish. And naive. And selfish. But you're young. And independent. And smart. And beautiful. And whatever else you wanna be. This is the time to figure that out. And I meant what I said. You do have to be considerate of his feelings cause you are in a relationship, but don't change who you are for him. If he can't accept you, fuck em." Sammy finished.

"He does accept me. It's just hard cause of how we got together. We're not perfect, but we're figuring it out." I told her.

She didn't look convinced, but she nodded. After a moment, she started again.

"His friend Omar is an asshole. My beer might have fell on him." Sammy admitted.

I groaned. "What? Why?"

"He called you a homie hopper. He wanted to go back to middle school and call names, so I did too." Sammy said.

I shook my head. I suspected Omar didn't like me. Now I knew for sure. I sighed.

"That's how you handled altercations in middle school?" I asked.

"No. That's how I handled bitches that talked shit. Fruit punch or chocolate milk dumped over their heads. Preferably when they were wearing white." Sammy admitted, grinning like she was remembering a fond memory, like grandma's baked goods.

I laughed. "Remind me to stay on your good side."

Sammy laughed too. "Now I have a taste for chocolate milk."

"Me too... do we have chocolate syrup?"



Monday morning I went to work like normal. Sandra informed me the two patients I worked with over the weekend were now my patients. At lunch, I went over my schedule. There was no way I could work them in without giving up my Tuesdays off. I sighed and called my patients to confirm the changes. When I had my schedule manageable, I ate a salad and went back to work. I barely had time to welcome Jordan back. When she was leaving, she came and found me. I left my patient working through her reps on the elastic bands and gave Jordan a hug.

"How are you holding up?" She asked.

"Great." I said. She laughed at the horror face I made. I didn't say anything negative.

"Just think of Vegas. 4 more days..." Jordan said.

I nodded. I was excited about Vegas. I was not excited about hanging with Jake's friends. Especially after what Sammy told me. I was embarrassed enough with what happened at Omar and Kelly's house and at Oktoberfest. I appreciated Sammy defending me, but I'm sure they all knew what happened and now I knew his friends were talking about us. Or the very least, me. It wasn't a great feeling, but I would suck it up for Jake's birthday.

That's why I went ahead and made plans to go to the mall with Rocky, Jasmine and Kelly. Might as well get the awkwardness out the way. I had to finish up shopping Tuesday cause I knew I wouldn't have time any other day. I planned to get off at 12pm. I got off late and raced over to the Galleria in Dallas. All three of them were waiting for me at the Starbucks.

"Sorry I'm late." I greeted them.

They all told me it was cool and we went shopping. Kelly didn't let on that anything was wrong, so I did the same. We browsed store to store, all finding different thing. I fell in love with a crystal grey sequin embellished dress from Bebe. Rocky found her dress as well. It was yellow and a little sheer and looked amazing on her body.

When we checked ourselves out in the mirror, Rocky turned to me.

"So I had an interesting call from Sammy Saturday night." She started.

"Disregard what she said." I told Rocky.

"I had to calm her down. She was ready to kick Jake's ass. What happened?" Rocky asked.

"It was really nothing. Jake and I are good and I talked to Sammy. Everything is fine. We worked it out."

"What did y'all have to work out?" Rocky and I both looked up to see Jasmine in a chain shoulder flowy dress leaving a fitting room.

"I like the Express dress better." I told her, dying for a subject change. I didn't even know she was trying on dresses. She was helping me pick out dresses cause she already bought the dress from Express.

"Me too. Now answer my question." Jasmine said.

"This is my understanding..." Rocky started. She told Jasmine exactly what happened. Even Omar calling me a homie hopper. I looked around to make sure Kelly wasn't around. By the end of the retelling, I was burning with shame. Jasmine looked absolutely mortified.

"Maleton!{Son of a bitch}" Jasmine muttered. She looked at me, hopefully. "You know why he's like that? Did he at least say he was sorry?"

I nodded and opened my mouth to speak, but Rocky cut me off.

"I was hoping Sammy was exaggerating, but I guess she wasn't. No offense, but I don't give a damn why he is that way. You deserve better." Rocky stated, looking away from Jasmine to me.

Jasmine looked crestfallen. "Lily, my brother loves you. I know he does. Just please, work with him." She said, pleading.

"I am." I reassured her. "But what do you mean by why he is that way? What don't I know?"

Jasmine sighed. "The next time you talk to him, ask him why his last relationship ended. It should be a girl name Cara. Make him tell you."

"I don't wanna force it. Especially before his birthday. It's gonna be awkward enough with his friends not liking me and everyone knowing we are having problems." I explained, tears welling up in my eyes.

Jasmine came over to me and gave me a hug. "Believe me, my brother is loyal to the people he loves, to a fault. They will not say anything out of line cause they know he won't tolerate that. Just focus on working on the two of you. Everything else will fall into place."

I nodded. I noticed Rocky was staying silent. We left shortly after we paid for our clothes. Kelly had found some cute accessories to go with her beaded pull over dress. I found some faux leather leggings and a red bandage skirt as well. I felt like I had enough to start planning my outfits.

I got home and started going through my clothes. I was putting together outfits for the trip when my phone rang. I answered it when I saw it was Jake.

"Hello?"

"If you don't wanna go to Vegas, just tell me now. I can give your ticket to someone else." Jake said, bluntly.

"What? I'm packing as we speak. Do you not want me to go? If you don't want me there, I won't go." I said, meekly.

"Didn't you tell Jasmine you felt uncomfortable going?" He asked.

"I did, because everyone knows we are having problems and your friends don't like me. But I told her I would get over it for you." I explained.

"Everyone wouldn't know about our problems if you didn't tell them. Why would you tell Jasmine?" He asked. I could tell by his clipped tone he was upset.

"I didn't. Rocky told Jasmine. Sammy told Rocky. That's the price of arguing in front of them." I said, weakly.

"I'm coming over. I'll be there in 15 minutes."

I put my clothes away and headed downstairs. He was there in less than 15 minutes. I quietly let him in.

"I want you to come with me. I want you to be with me, but I understand if you don't want to. Just let me know. Don't use them as an excuse. If you want out of this, I'll let you go." Jake told me.

Tears sprang and fell from my eyes. "I don't want out. I want us to work out, but sometimes I feel like I can't do anything right with you. I'm tired of fighting." I cried.

Jake closed the distance between us and held me in his arms.

"It's not you." Jake said. I looked up at him.

"Then what is it?" I asked, willing him to open up to me.

"My ex cheated on me. She swore up and down she didn't. I found out from the other guy that she did." Jake said. The bitterness and pain in his voice nipped at my heart. I held him closer.

"Jake, I'm sorry. I can't imagine what you felt like, but you have to trust me. I would never do that to you." I reassured him. "The only way we're going to work is if you give us a chance." I pleaded with him.

He nodded. "I don't have a choice. I don't wanna lose you."

"We said honesty, remember? As long as you're honest with me, you won't lose me. I love you." I replied.

"I love you too Lily."

Complicated

Why is everything with you so complicated
Why do you make it hard to love you
Oh I hate it
Cause if you really wanna be alone
I will throw my hands up Cause baby I tried
Everything with you is so complicated
Oh why
You're not easy to love
You're not easy to love, no- Complicated by Rihanna

Friday night, Darren had a home game. So even though work was long and exhausting, I planned to go. Jordan was on vacation this week, so I missed our lunches or random breaks just to chat. I didn't realize how much those small interactions kept me upbeat. I ate my lunches at work and chatted with Quintin and Heather, two physical therapists. Mostly just commiserating about the heavier workload. Rumor had it that Ann had interviewed one potential new therapist. So if all went well, we would at least have some help soon.

I got home around 6. Just enough time to shower and change into skinny jeans and a maroon razorback tank, one of Darren's school color, before heading to the game. The cold front moved through, so it was back to being warm and humid. I didn't complain. The weather man promised no more triple digit heat, so I took what I could get. I was pulling my hair up into a ponytail when I received a text.

Jake- Hey. Working late?

Me- No. I'm off. Getting ready to head to Lewisville for Darren's game.

Jake-Cool. Give me 10 minutes and I'll come pick you up.

Me-Sounds good :-)

After I fixed my bangs out my face and stepped into the heels Jake brought me, I went downstairs to wait for Jake. He called me on the my way down the stairs. I ignored it and just left. Talk about perfect timing.

Jake was sitting in his SUV, frowning at his phone. I tapped on the hood before walking to the passenger side. He watched me as I hopped in.

"I was just texting you about not answering your phone." He informed me.

I leaned over to give him a kiss.

"I was walking out the door when you called. So you know where you can put that text." I said, pulling back to put on my seatbelt.

"Delete pile?" He asked, starting up the car.

"Sure, that's one place. Not where I was going to suggest." I replied.

He smiled as we took off. I navigated to the school stadium and we headed inside. I already knew Rachel wasn't coming. She had a dinner with her parents. Forrest had invited me to hang out on the sidelines if I promised to water the benches (give water to whatever group was sitting on the bench) and try not to distract the boys. As tempting as that sounded to relive my high school fantasy, I was going to have to pass to hang with Jake. Tragic.

The team was already on the field stretching. Well, most of the team. I saw Darren heading out of the tunnels to the locker room. His girlfriend waited at the end. As we walked to the stands, I called out to him.

"Hey superman! Go stretch!!!" I yelled.

Darren looked over at us and grinned. "I'm going. I had to get my ankles taped. Are you coming too? Coach Sullivan said you'll be helping out." He asked.

"Nope. Tell him unfortunately, I'm taking my talents to the stands. Good luck!" I answered.

"Alright. See ya later!" Darren said. He waved to his girlfriend before running to join his team.

"Whoa, he's fast." Jake commented.

"You have no idea." I said, watching as Darren's girlfriend gave me an evil eye. This time I didn't stare back. I just ignored her.

We went to the concession stand right before half-time. Darren didn't have any touchdowns, but he had a lot of yards. He had a couple runs for over 30 yards. I held on to Jake as we made our way down the stairs.

"Why did you wear those shoes?" Jake asked as he saw me struggling down the stairs.

"Practice. If I can master the stairs, I can master anything." I told him.

"Looks like the stairs are mastering you."

"Shut Up!" I exclaimed.

We were standing in line when I received a call from Sandra, my new boss. I groaned and stepped out of line.

"Hello?" I answered.

"Lily. You're on call this weekend correct?" She asked.

"I am." I informed her.

"Ok. Since we've had to juggle things around, I scheduled two appointments for you tomorrow. We already had to cancel so I need you to be extra accommodating for the time being." She explained.

"Ok. What time?" I said, calmly. Inside, I wanted to scream. This whole week I was nothing but accommodating. Scheduling weekend appointments was a bit too much for me. Especially if they weren't my patients nor my decision, but I knew I had to be flexible for the time being. So I sucked it up and took one for the team.

By the time I got off the phone, Jake was waiting for me with snacks. I joined him sighing.

"I have two appointments tomorrow." I told him.

"Why?" Jake asked as we walked back.

"I guess Sandra is trying to make up for the appointments that we missed. I just hope weekend appointments aren't a permanent change." I explained.

"Do you wanna get out of here?" Jake asked.

"No. We can watch the rest of the game."

"I know we can. I just wanna have time to actually go out with you. While you're awake and not tired."

"I'll stay up, even if i have to take a 5 hour energy." I smiled at him.

We went back to the stands and watched the rest of the game. It was a blow out, Darren's team easily winning 35-7. Jake and I talked about how good Darren was.

"He definitely has talent. I've seen less talented kids get scholarships to D1 schools."

"I think he's leaning towards OU. I'm already working on my 'I saved his knee' speech." I joked.

"I bet you are." Jake smiled at me.

At the end of the game, I waved goodbye to Forrest and Darren. Jake wanted to get a jump on traffic and I was inclined to agree, even though I wanted to chat with Forrest.

Since I knew had to be at work in the morning, we drove to my neck of the woods in Addison. We found a late night Cajun restaurant called Shuck and Jive. We planned on grabbing a bite to eat then heading back to my place, until I heard a live band covering an LMFAO song at Memphis, the separate but conjoint bar. Two of my guilty pleasures: Sky Blu and cover bands. I looked longingly at the doorway connecting the two areas.

Jake grabbed my hand and led me over. The doorman checked our ID, took Jake's card to open us a tab and pointed us to a corner table. I followed Jake as he navigated us through, nodding my head to the music. We got settled and ordered food and drinks when the waitress made her way over.

I scanned the bar, deciding I found my new favorite place in Addison. It was a smaller bar, but the crowd was a mixture of age and ethnicity. Everyone looked like they were having a blast. How could you not when a cover band was rocking out to Black Eyed Peas "I Gotta Feeling"?

And the food was delicious. We shared a Cajundillas, a chicken quesadilla with a Cajun twist, to start. It was one of the best quesadillas I've ever tasted. Jake got a shrimp po-boy and I got a spicy Jambalaya pasta. My pasta was definitely better than the po-boy, but it was all fantastic. We ordered drinks and jammed out to the music. Or at least I did. Especially when the band started playing a melody of Michael Jackson, including the song "P.Y.T". Jake laughed at me when I threw my hands up and started bouncing in my chair.

"Can I get this dance with your girlfriend? I promise to bring her back?" An older guy asked Jake. He looked in his 50s and a drink or two past tipsy, but harmless enough. Jake gave me a questioning look. I shrugged, indifferent.

"Please. Before she hurts herself in that chair. But it's at your own risk." Jake warned him.

The guy let out a bellowing laugh and I swatted Jake playfully. I followed him to the makeshift dance floor in front of the stage. We danced together to the music. For an older guy, he had some good moves. When the song ended, I thanked him for the dance. I made eye contact with Jake, and gestured asking him if he wanted to dance. He shook his head.

On my way back to my table, a guy grabbed my arm. "Wanna dance?"

"No thanks." I said, pulling away. I could tell by the way Jake's face darkened, he was not having that. I quickly returned to him.

He scooted my chair next to his.

"From now on, you dance only with me. Right here." Jake said, pulling me in for a kiss.

I kissed him back.



I knew I had to be at work in the morning, but we stayed until closing, drinking and dancing at our table. We had so much fun. The pain I felt in the morning was worth it. I made the water extra hot in the shower and blasted some Queen to wake me up. I was in the middle of my cover of  "Don't Stop Me Now" when Jake delivered McDonald's hot cake platter, coffee, and a 5 hour energy. I thanked him profusely and scarfed down my food and the shot before we left.

I got there earlier so I could read over my charts. The first guy had nerve blocks for carpal tunnel and the second guy was rehabbing a dislocated ankle. I followed both rehab plans exactly how they were developed. I left detailed notes about their progressions only because I had no idea if they were my patients or not now. I was finishing up in the office when Denise, a therapist that has been working at the clinic for a year now, joined me.


"Lily, was this your weekend to work?" Denise asked me, pulling up a chair.

"Yes, how bout you?" I responded.

"No. I volunteered." Denise answered.

"That was nice of you" I said.

"No, smart. Now that the boys club is over, I'm planning to get in on her good side." She said.

"What do you mean?"

"Derek let Steven and Quintin do whatever they wanted cause they were friends. They also got their pick of patients. We should do the same with Sandra, Girl Power!!!" Denise explained.

I nodded. I wanted to tell her I would take the boy's club over girl power if that meant no more weekend appointments and long days, but I kept my  negative comments to myself. Even if he didn't want to be my friend, I still was going to take Ethan's advice.

 I went home and flopped on the bed. I didn't even change out of my clothes. I was still on call so I might have to go back in. Normally I would silence my phone while I napped, but I set it right next to me on the bed. The 5 hour energy timed out and I fell fast asleep. I was awoken 40 minutes later by my phone ringing. I had two missed calls from Jake.

"Hello?" I said, groggily.

"Hey, you sleeping?"

No shit

"Trying to..." I grumbled.

"Jasmine was going shopping for Vegas. I told her you would want to go."

"Not right now. I'm beat and I'm still on call. So do you mind not calling until I call you back?" I asked.

"Fine."

I put the phone down and slept for a blissful 2 more hours. I woke up refreshed and relieved. No way Sandra would schedule Sunday appointments. So I should be good, unless there was an emergency.

I immediately called Jake. No answer. I sighed and texted him.

Me: The no sleep bitch is gone. Sorry I was so grumpy. Give me a call.

I answered all my other texts. Sammy wanted me to call her. Lamar, Patrick, Corey and her were going to Oktoberfest in Addison and she wanted to know if Jake and I wanted to join. I called her.

"I'm downstairs." She answered.

I smiled. "Okay."

I got up and joined her downstairs. She was folding clothes.

"Urgh. I'm sorry I've been so shitty. That's was my job."

"It's all good. I only washed my clothes anyway." Sammy responded.

"Good. Now I don't feel bad." I pulled up my Facebook. I could tell by Malik's status that Jake and them were hanging out.

"So Oktoberfest?" Sammy asked.

I nodded. "I'm down."

I didn't get why Jake couldn't return my call. I felt weird making plans without him, but I couldn't help it if he was too busy to even text. I texted him, letting him know my plans.

I went upstairs and got dressed in a graphic black and white tank and white denim short shorts. I put on some sandals and headed downstairs. Corey was driving, so Sammy and I pre-gamed on flavored Vodka before Corey showed up to pick us up. We piled into his car.

I smiled proudly, as Sammy and Corey seemed so comfortable and happy in each other's company. I gave myself a mental pat on the back. We followed Lamar and Patrick over. I hadn't seen them in forever. I was glad to be hanging out with them.

"We understand. When you're in a new relationship, that's all you worry about, but don't be mad we like Sammy better." Patrick commented.

Sammy laughed.

"That's fair." I smiled.

We got there right in time to watch the beer barrel rolling contest. Sammy and I found a spot while the boys went to grab beers. They brought us back traditional beer steins filled with German beer. We drank and laughed watching the contest. Sammy and I cooed over all the chubby cute toddlers in traditional German clothing. After we finished our first beers, we went over to the huge, air conditioned tent. That's where all the food was set up.

On the way, Jake finally returned my call.

"Hey. Where are you?" Jake asked me.

"Oktoberfest."

"I know. Where? We're here too." Jake said.

"Oh. The main tent. Where are you?"

"Heading to the main tent." Jake answered.

"Ok."  I described to him what side we were on. A few minutes later, I saw Jake, Omar, Kelly, Colten and Malik heading our way. I greeted them before introducing everyone.

"This is so cool. I'm so sad this is my first time coming. I've heard about it, I just never came." Kelly gushed.

"Mine too. I lived in Dallas my whole life, and I've never even heard about it. We live like 10 minutes away." Sammy explained to her.

"Have y'all ate?" Jake asked.

"Nope. That's what we're doing now." I answered.

We walked around, deciding what German delicacies we wanted to try.

"Thanks for calling me back." I said, sarcastically to Jake as we stood in line.

"I did. Not everything revolves around your schedule." Jake told me.

"I'm sorry, what were y'all up to so you couldn't text me back?" I asked.

"Maybe I was asleep too." He said, simply.

I bit my tongue and focused on the menu. We ordered a beer bratwurst platter that included german potato salad, sauerkraut, a roll, german chocolate cake, an apple strudel and a laugen pretzel. After receiving our food, we joined everyone. We found a spot to sit and watch the dancers as we ate.

"Who's gonna go dance the polka?" Kelly asked us all with a grin.

"Maybe after a couple more of these." I said, holding up my beer.

"I'm with you." Corey agreed.

"I'm too fucked up for that." Sammy said, taking a bite of roasted corn. Obviously she pre-gamed a little too much.

"I didn't know you polka'd" Malik told Jake, laughing.

"I don't." Jake dead panned. I laughed and he smiled at me.

"That's ok. We can just trade them back for the night." Sammy winked at me.

"What does that mean?" Omar asked Sammy. I looked at Sammy with wide eyes, but she just laughed and continued.

"I dated Jake. Lily dated Corey. We can just swap them back!" Sammy laughed.

"Sammy, shut up. It was not like that and you know it." I tried to laugh it off. But my laugh was as awkward as the mood now. Jake was so tense. I could tell he was barely holding it together. He was glaring at Corey.

"Jordan tried to set us up. We texted. That's it." Corey said, not backing down from Jake's glare. I wish he would and let me handle it. And shut up. Now Jake looked pissed.

Jake finally looked away from Corey to stare at me. "Let me see your phone." He demanded.

"Jake..." Malik started as I reached into my pocket to pull it out.

"Fuck that Lily. Don't show him shit." Sammy exclaimed.

I sent her a dirty look before handing him the phone. Once he saw the texts, he would chill the fuck out and we'd be ok. I could live with the embarrassment. I didn't want another fight.

"There y'all are!" Patrick exclaimed as he and Lamar joined us.

Lamar must have sensed the mood. "What's up?" He asked, questioningly.

"Jake is going through Lily's phone cause she had the audacity to have a life before him." Sammy declared. I sent her a desperate look.

"Didn't y'all sleep together?-" Patrick asked. Lamar cut him off by shhhing him.

"Yeah. We did." Sammy glared at Jake.

Jake finally looked up at me. He handed me my phone. "Are you ready to go?" He asked me. I nodded and stood up.

"Lily, stay." Sammy pleaded.

"It's cool. I'll see you at the apartment. Bye y'all." I said, walking off with Jake.

"Were you going to go out with him?" Jake asked me as he stalked away.

"Yes, but then we slept together and I didn't wanna be with anyone else." I said, rushing to keep up with his long strides.

"You told him your dating situation was complicated. What does that mean? I'm a complication?" Jake asked.

"No! You just weren't my boyfriend back then. I didn't wanna be rude and tell him I liked you better." I said.

He finally stopped when we approached his car.

"I'm sorry I didn't tell you. It just really wasn't a big deal to me-" I started.

"It's a big deal to me. When I'm constantly finding out about you with other guys. I can't deal with that."

"Jake you looked through my phone. There is no one else." I promised.

He stared at me. "I hope not."

We left together. We went to his apartment. He took me to bed. Our love making was short, intense and passionate. He held me in his arms afterwards. He fell asleep as I laid there, staring up at the ceiling. And as hard as I tried to convince myself that everything was ok, I couldn't shake the feeling of uneasiness that settled in the pit of my stomach.

Simply Amazing

She ain't perfect, but she's worth it
Every breath I breathe, for the life of me
And I know I might not deserve it
But she loves me, and it's simply amazing- Simply Amazing by Trey Songz

 By the time Jake arrived back at my apartment to pick me up, I convinced myself everything would be fine. I already spoke to my brother. Trevor was going to be there. Jake said he was going to be cool. Trevor didn't know any better, so as long as I kept our conversations PG, nothing would go wrong. And if it did, I knew I all I had to do was run interference to keep things from getting weird. Or awkward. Or hostile.

I dressed casually in jeans and a long sleeved 49ERS shirt. I didn't put on any make-up and just pulled my hair back into a simple ponytail. I grabbed the chili I made and we headed over to my brother's apartment.

When we got there, Cam let us in.

"Hey Bro!" I said, smiling, giving him a hug. He looked ready for the game wearing a Frank Gore Jersey and 49ers cap.

"Hey sis, Jake, come in." Cam said, letting us in.

Jake and Cam shook hands and I said I quick hello to everyone, including Trevor and headed to the kitchen. Jenna and another woman were in the kitchen. I set down the pot and greeted Jenna warmly.

"Lily! How is everything?" Jenna smiled at me, giving me a hug.

"Good, how are you?"  I asked her.

"Just good? A new boyfriend and it's just good?" Jenna questioned.

"Amazing, I mean." I smiled.

"Better. This is my friend Emily." Jenna introduced us.

"Nice to meet you."

"Lily, are you gonna make Jake a plate?" Cam asked me as he joined us in the kitchen.

"Um, did something happen to his arms and leg since I've been in the kitchen?" I asked, sarcastically.

"You're such a brat." Cam told me, grabbing beers.

I stuck my tongue out at him as he left for the living room. I went ahead and made Jake a plate.

Jake smiled at me when I handed him his plate.

"Thanks Cariño." Jake said, gratefully.

"You're very welcome."

"I'll take mine next." Trevor grinned at me.

"Nope. You know where the kitchen is. Help yourself." I told him, heading back into the kitchen. Trevor got up and joined me. We made our plates together.

"So... I noticed you deleted our Facebook conversation." Trevor pointed out.

"Nothing gets by you." I said, simply. Hoping he would get the hint.

"Let me guess. The boyfriend made you?" He asked.

"No one makes me do anything." I snapped at him.

"OK. I'm just saying. He's dressing you now, dictating how you act, monitoring your Facebook... Sounds a little 50 shades of fucked up to me. I'm concerned." Trevor said.

I stopped making my plate and looked at him. "Don't be. If he ever adds a red room to his apartment, then be concerned. For him, not for me. And don't quote that book. It's embarrassing you even know it." I said, before continuing to make my plate.

Trevor laughed at me. "So are we gonna go see it next year?"

"It comes out on Valentine's day. So no, I will be with my boyfriend." I said, finishing my plate. "And besides, I refuse to support that nonsense."

"Bootlegged?" Trevor asked me as I walked out.

"If you can get it," I answered, before joining Jake on the couch with my plate.

"Is that all you're eating?" Cam asked me. I got very little of everything.

I nodded. "I'm watching what I eat before our Vegas trip. We're going for Jake's birthday." I explained.

"You don't need to diet. You look fine." Jake told me.

"Thanks, but my itinerary for Vegas includes drinking, eating and no working out. I gotta balance it out by eating better now." I explained.

"No more all about that bass?" Trevor asked me. Jake remained calm. I smiled at him.

"Nope. That song is officially played out." I answered.

----------------------

The rest of the game was drama free. The only disagreement was when we got into a discussion about all the domestic violence going on in the NFL. Cam thought the new punishment by Roger Goodell suspending Ray Rice indefinitely was too harsh. I agreed, but I felt like the original punishment of 2 games was so pathetic they had to cover their ass. Jenna felt like the first video tape was enough to suspend him for life.

"Why did America need to see the actual footage inside the elevator to understand the severity?" Jenna questioned.

"Because this is America. Innocent until proven guilty." Trevor replied.

"Oh come on Trevor. Why would he be dragging her outside an elevator?" Jenna asked him.

"At first they said she had too much to drink." Trevor shrugged.

"Considering your wingman is patron, I know you've had your fair share of dealing with drunk women." I started. Cam and Trevor laughed at that. "So you know her walking in, perfectly fine and falling unconscious is very unlikely." I finished.

"I know that. I'm just saying from the NFL side of it, why not believe him? Considering this is the first time anything has ever happened with him." Trevor said.

"Even if they didn't see the tape, he was indicted. Meaning a jury thought there was enough evidence to think aggravated assault occurred. No doubt in my mind, they knew that a tape existed when he was suspended for 2 games. Whether they saw it or not, they knew. Like Lily said, the NFL is just covering its ass now." Jake responded.

No one could argue with that. I beamed at Jake.

"Baby, I'm shocked. You sounded like a lawyer or something." I grinned at him.

"Why would you be shocked? He has a degree in criminal justice." Cam said.

I looked at Cam, then Jake. He looked really uncomfortable. "I didn't know that." I said.

"How did you know that?" Jake asked my brother.

Cam smirked. "Think I would let you around my little sister without checking you out first?"

"Cam, that's so creepy. What's wrong with you?" I exclaimed.

Everyone laughed.

I turned to Jake. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"Because I'm not like you. When we met, you were like 'Hi, I'm Lily. I'm a doctor'" Jake answered.

I smiled. "Did not, but that's not the point. You let me compare you to Observe and Report when you have a criminal justice degree!"

Trevor laughed. "I loved that movie."

"Doesn't mean I wanna be a lawyer." Jake shrugged.

"Lawyers don't carry guns. That's so much sexier." I grinned.

"T.M.I." Cam declared.

"Oh, look who's talking Mr. Background check." Jenna said.

Everyone laughed at Cam.

The 49ERS lost to Chicago in the second half of the game. Jake drove us to my apartment afterwards. On the drive, I got a text from an unknown number.

Unknown: How did y'all let Jay Cutler come back and beat ya?

I called the number back. No anonymous asshole was going to talk shit about my 9ERS. Especially after a close loss.

"Hello?"

I took me a minute, but I recognized the voice.

"Blake? How the hell did you get my number? And OMG, Shut up. I didn't hear shit from you last week when the 49ERS crushed the cowboys! At home!" I exclaimed.

Blake laughed. "Forrest, and you didn't come to the party last week."

"Yeah, cause I didn't wanna rub it in." I laughed.

"Sure..."

We got off the phone after that. I saved his number in my phone.

"Who was that?" Jake asked.

"Remember that Blake kid we played corn hole with? Forrest's friend." I said.

"How did he get your number?" Jake asked.

"Apparently Forrest." I said.

"Why would he think it's cool to give out your number to random guys?"

"Guy. He's not random. We talked at the game watching party. He knows about you. We just trash each other teams." I explained.

Jake nodded. We got to my townhome and went up to my room. After a quickie, Jake got up to leave.

"I have to be at work early." He informed me. I nodded and got up to walk him out.



This past week has been hectic. With Derek, Steven and Christy being gone, we felt disconnected. And without new therapists, we were under staffed. I stayed late all week taking on new patients while still dealing with mine. Most nights I came home, made dinner, talked to Jake and climbed into bed. I woke up early to get a work out in, so by the time I got home, I was exhausted.

Jake told me he wanted to see me on Wednesday, but I told him Thursday would be better. Thankfully, it was my short day. So I would get off at my normal time even with the added patients. I planned to go out to dinner with Jake, but Sandra called me into her office right when I was getting ready to leave. She wanted me to stay to help her work out rehab plans, so I would be late again.

I called Jake to let him know.

"Hey babe. I'm sorry. I'm staying late again. I'm already exhausted." I asked.

"Ok. That's cool. If you're tired, get some rest." He said shortly. I felt bad for cancelling on him.

"I still wanna hang out with you." I said, quickly. "We can go out tonight. I'll be home in another hour. Ok?"

" ok. " Jake replied.

I really was dead on my feet, but I would push through it for Jake. When I got off, I tried to call him. When there was no answer, I just headed home. Sammy was there when I arrived. She grinned at me. Weirdo. I tried Jake one more time as I trudged up the stairs. I was shocked to hear ringing coming from my room.

When I opened my bedroom door, Jake was in my room. Bathwater was ready in the tub and a new pink lace cami and boyshorts set sitting out for me. My face broke out into a smile and I hugged him close.

"Thank you Jake. You're amazing." I gushed.

"You're welcome Cariño. Get naked." He smiled.

I did and hopped in the tub. I sank in the hot water, relaxing. He used bath salts and bubbles. It was so heavenly, I didn't wanna get out.

 I dragged myself out, when the water cooled. I threw on my new pajamas after quickly slathering on lotion. I jumped into bed with Jake where he was waiting for me with take out. We ate sushi rolls in bed while watching Thursday night football. Full and nodding off, I set my alarm for an hour early before I laid down to went to sleep.



The next thing I knew, my alarm was waking us up.

"Lily...you gotta be at work early too?" He groaned at me.

"No. Same time. I just need to thank my boyfriend for taking care of me last night." I said, rubbing my hands up and down his chest.

I kissed down his chest to his penis. I used every trick I ever saw in porn videos to get him off. It worked. He grabbed my hair to hold me in place as he climaxed.

I crawled up on the bed next to him when he finished. I laid my head on his chest.

"You're amazing." He said, breathlessly.

"I gotta keep up with you." I smiled, resting in his arms. "Although I think I just surpassed you."

"You do?" Jake challenged.

When I nodded, he rolled over me. I laughed and we play fought. I tried to get him off of me. He pinned my arms down and began to kiss me. I kissed him back. His grip loosened on my arms, so I was able to break free. I just placed my fingers through his hair. He groaned against my lips as I massaged his scalp. I grinned as I discovered another turn on for him.

"Te extraño. Quiero más tiempo contigo. {I miss you. I want more time with you}" He said, smothering kisses on me.

"I'm right here Jake. Make love to me." I said between kisses.

He removed my clothes and as the sun came up, he gave me exactly what I wanted. And it was simply amazing.



****Hey everyone! Thank you for all the comments and compliments and feedback! As you can see, this post is later than normal. This is one of the few times I actually wrote a whole post from beginning to end the day before. Kinda scary. I didn't proof as much. And it's not as long. I should have been writing this post, but I was excited to get into Ethan's head!

I no longer have reserved posts. My writing day (sunday) is now football with the fam day . So I will only do bonuses and different point of views, if I have the whole weeks post done! Thank you for reading! And character guide was updated. Check it out!