Identity Risk (The Billionaire Experience #3)

Chapter Fifteen

Jessie gently pushed open the door to the lingerie boutique, her eyes adjusting to the bright lights acting as spotlights aimed at the luxurious displays. The store was elegant, with white marble floors. But the main focal points were the delicate lace pieces draped on mannequins that lined the walls and stand-alone displays.

It wasn’t long before an older woman approached her, her silver hair perfectly styled, her posture exuding a grace that immediately put Jessie at ease.

“Jessie, I presume?” the woman asked with a warm smile, extending her hand.

Jessie returned the smile, taking her hand in a firm but friendly grip. “That is me. You must be Cherise.”

“I am,” Cherise replied warmly. “Welcome. The store is all yours tonight, so take your time. In the sitting area by the dressing rooms, there is a bottle of 2013 Pavillon Blanc du Chateau Margaux, along with some hors d'oeuvres. Please help yourself with all of it.

Jessie smiled, knowing that Mac must have told Cherise that Pavillon Blanc du Chateau Margaux was her favorite wine.

“Before you start browsing, Mac mentioned that you like unique and special collection sets.”

“I do. I sort of have a lingerie fetish,” Jessie admitted, feeling the blush in her cheeks.

Cherise laughed as she took Jessie’s arm and led her over to a display that showcased two bra and panty sets.

“I hope you don’t mind, but I asked Mac for your sizes so I could pull a few special items I thought you might like to see or try on.”

Jessie didn’t mind, and it also didn’t surprise her that Mac knew what her bra and panty sizes were. The man knew everything.

Jessie told her that it wasn’t a problem and also that she appreciated her being proactive.

“Now, these two sets are from my private collection. What makes these special and unique is that they are limited to only five sets made. I pulled these two because they fell in the size range that Mac provided.

As soon as Jessie saw them, she was drawn to the rose-gold lace and satin set. The bra was crafted from delicate lace and satin that featured intricate floral embroidery. The cups had a scalloped edge, giving the bra a timeless, vintage charm while maintaining a contemporary flair.

The matching panties mirrored the bra’s elegance, with the same intricate lace overlaying a smooth satin base. The waistband, adorned with a petite bow at the center, added a touch of playful sophistication. The back of the panties featured a sheer lace panel, offering a tantalizing hint of skin beneath the rose gold hue. The overall effect was both enchanting and sensual, perfectly capturing the balance of classic beauty and modern allure.

This set wasn’t just lingerie; it was a statement piece, effortlessly combining grace and luxury with a touch of understated glamour.

Jessie already knew that the set would be coming home with her.

“The rose gold would look lovely on you,” Cherise said, looking between the lingerie set and Jessie.

“It’s beautiful,” Jessie stated, running her fingers over the delicate fabric. “May I try this one on?” she asked.

Cherise smiled. “Of course. How about I take this set, and I’ll go ahead and start a fitting room for you? Feel free to browse around, and if you need anything or have any questions, I’ll be in the front of the store.”

Shopping for lingerie had never been one of her favorite activities, but something about Cherise’s warm demeanor made her feel at ease. “Thank you, Cherise. I really appreciate this.”

Cherise waved off the thanks with a graceful hand. “It’s my pleasure. I’ve known Mac for a long time, and when he asked for this favor, I couldn’t refuse.”

Jessie remembered Mac mentioning that Cherise was a client of his. But she sensed there was a deeper connection between the two besides business—like a parent and child.

As Cherise excused herself, Jessie began to browse the store. She felt like a kid in a candy store. There were so many choices to choose from—bras, panties, sleepwear, and other intimates.

She paused in front of a mannequin that was wearing a lacey bralette and matching lace cheeky panties in the warmest, most subtle shade of orange she’d ever seen. It wasn’t the loud, bright orange that dominated the racks during summer. It was soft and alluring.

Jessie reached out and picked up the bra, admiring its elegance. The material was surprisingly super soft. The matching panties were equally stunning, featuring the same warm orange hue with intricate lace panels that added a touch of femininity without being too over the top.

She held the set against her, looking in a mirror that was nearby. Normally, she wouldn’t have gone for orange, but this felt different. It wasn’t loud or screaming for attention. It was elegant and refined, just like she wanted to feel around Mac. Warmth filled her as she imagined his reaction, the soft smile that would curl on his lips when he realized she'd chosen his favorite color. Oh, yes. She was definitely getting this set.

By the time she walked the entire store, she had a handful of items draped over her arm. She found the fitting room that Cherise had prepared for her.

As she slipped into each piece, she scrutinized every detail, making sure the fit was perfect, and the style was something she felt good in.

The lace on one of the bras was intricate, with delicate floral patterns that danced across the fabric. The matching panties were equally stunning, with a lace waistband that hugged her hips just right, and garters added a touch of seductive elegance. Jessie knew Mac had a thing for garters, and she could already imagine the way his eyes would darken with desire when he saw her in this set.

Forty-five minutes later, Jessie was exhausted but pleased with her selections. As she started to get dressed, there was a soft knock on the door.

“Jessie, dear?” Cherise’s voice came through.

Jessie cracked the door open and peeked out. Cherise was standing there with a playful gleam in her eyes. She handed Jessie more bra and panty sets. “Mac personally chose these for you.”

Jessie’s face turned bright red, and Cherise laughed.

“I was going to package them up, but I thought you’d want to try them on first,” she said.

Jessie glanced down at the two sets Cherise had handed her—one in a deep emerald green and the other in a pristine white. They were stunning, with delicate lace details that hinted at just the right amount of skin. She could almost feel Mac’s touch as she imagined wearing them.

“Thank you, Cherise,” Jessie said, her voice soft with gratitude as she took the sets from her.

“It’s my pleasure,” Cherise replied with a wink. “Try them on and see what you think. I personally think that you will look stunning in them. After all, they are one of a kind.”

Jessie cocked her head to the side. “One of a kind? As in…”

Cherise nodded. “What is in your hands are the only ones made. They were designed and made especially for you at Mac’s request.”

Jessie was stunned. She couldn’t believe that Mac had lingerie designed for her. How in the heck had Cherise made them so fast?

Cherise gave her another wink and smiled as she pulled the door closed.

Jessie’s heart was racing as she quickly tried them on. Both sets were perfect, and Jessie felt tears prick at the corners of her eyes, overwhelmed by how well Mac knew her tastes.

When she finally emerged from the dressing room, she found Cherise at the front counter, carefully wrapping her delicate items in light blue tissue paper before bagging them.

When Cherise was finished, she walked around the counter and pulled Jessie into a hug.

“I’m so happy Mac found you. He deserves a good woman like yourself.”

Jessie hugged her back. “Thank you so much, Cherise,” Jessie said sincerely.

Cherise smiled. “It was my pleasure, darling. But I do have one request before you go.”

Jessie pulled back, curiosity lighting her eyes. “What’s that?”

Cherise grinned, that signature sly smile of hers returning. “You better invite me to the wedding.”

Jessie’s mouth dropped open in shock, but before she could respond, Cherise laughed and ushered her toward the door. “Take care, Jessie. And tell Mac I said hello.”

Jessie stepped out onto the sidewalk, still stunned by Cherise’s parting words. The evening had grown late, and the streets had quieted down.

She reached for her phone to call for a car when a sleek black Mercedes SUV pulled up along the curb in front of her. The driver stepped out and approached her with a polite smile.

“Ms. Jessie Marchand?” he asked.

Jessie hesitated, her past making her wary, but the driver quickly added, “Mr. Ramsey sent me to pick you up.”

Relief washed over her as she realized Mac had arranged for her ride home. She turned back toward the boutique and saw Cherise watching her from the window, smiling and waving. Jessie shook her head, laughing at how perfectly orchestrated the evening had been. The driver took her bags and placed them in the back of the SUV before opening the door for her.

As Jessie settled into the back seat, she pulled out her phone and sent a Mac text, thanking him for an amazing day and for making sure that she got home safely. His reply came almost immediately, letting her know that Quincy, the driver, would help her get everything up to the penthouse.

Jessie smiled as she leaned back in the seat. Her heart was full of warmth for the man who had gone above and beyond in the last few days to make her feel special. But now, thinking about it, she realized that Mac had always made her feel that way.

It made her question whether Mac had been the one giving more in their relationship.

He was the one who was sacrificing so much—his time, his life in Florida, and even his friends—just to be by her side and make her feel loved.

He had never once complained, never once asked her for anything in return. Instead, he’d shown her the kind of dedication and affection that made her feel like she was the only thing that mattered in his world.

But what had she really done for him? She’d been so caught up in her own fears, her own life in New York, that she hadn’t stopped to think about what Mac had given up for her.

Her mind drifted back to the conversation she’d had with Lacie a few days ago when Lacie commented on Mac having his whole life in Florida, which included his employees and close friends, who were basically like family to him. All who Jessie had close to her in New York was Lacie.

Lacie had been right when she told Jessie she could still lead the firm without being tied to the city. She’d built her life around the idea that New York was the only place she could thrive, but the more she replayed Lacie’s words in her head, the clearer it became. Mac had already made all the sacrifices for her—it was time for her to step up. He had showered her with love, loyalty, and patience, and now it was her turn to give back in the same way.

Jessie smiled to herself, feeling a sense of purpose settle over her. She knew what she had to do. Mac deserved to feel just as special and cared for as he had made her feel all this time. Jessie wasn’t sure how it would all unfold, but she knew one thing for certain—it was time to stop living in her own little world and start building one with Mac—one where they could both thrive together.

Needing to see Mac, she texted him.

Jessie: Hey, you.

Mac: Hey, sunshine.

His reply made her giggle.

Mac: Everything okay?

Jessie: Define okay.

Mac: Jessie…

He was so easy to fluster.

Jessie: Okay, sorry. Are you busy?

Mac: I’m never too busy for you. What do you need?

Well, that was a loaded question, she thought as her mind went into the gutter. She started to type, “Do you even have to ask?”

“Don’t even go there,” she thought to herself. That right there was a big part of her problem—sex! She had been using sex as a distraction from the real issues that were plaguing her. She was surprised her vagina was still operational after all of the amazing sex she and Mac had been having. Not that she was complaining, but the emotional connection in a relationship was just as important as the physical side.

Even though a round of bedroom Olympics sounded tempting and was what she wanted, it wasn’t what she needed. Well, at least for tonight. Tonight, she would focus on moving their relationship forward.

Jessie: I know you said that you were going to stay at the hotel tonight. But do you think you could come back to the penthouse instead?

She held her breath, waiting for his reply. Thankfully, she didn’t have to wait long, as his response came back within seconds.

Mac: On my way. I’ll meet you at your place.

She smiled as she placed her phone back in her purse.

Fifteen minutes later, they arrived at her building, and Jessie spotted Mac standing near the entrance, just as he had promised.

The driver stepped out and opened the door for her, but before she could move, Mac was there, holding out his hand. Jessie took it, feeling the warmth and strength in his grip as he helped her out of the car.

He took the shopping bags from Quincy, thanking him before leading Jessie inside and to the elevator.

The silence between them was thick, and it felt like a thousand unsaid words hovered in the air. Jessie was trying to gather her thoughts and find a way to express everything swirling inside her, but the words wouldn’t come. Finally, as the elevator doors slid shut, she broke the silence.

“Thank you for coming over,” she said softly, her voice a little shaky.

He looked down at her, his eyes warm and full of understanding. “You don’t have to thank me, Jessie. You know that if I can, I’ll always be there for you.”

His words touched her more deeply than she expected, and for a moment, she felt tears threaten to spill over. But she held them back. There was so much she wanted to say to him, but the problem was that she didn’t know where to start.

As if sensing her turmoil, Mac gave her a gentle smile. “Have you had dinner?” he asked.

“No,” she replied with a shake of her head.

“Alright, why don’t you go take a nice, relaxing bath or shower? And I’ll make us something to eat?”

Jessie blinked, surprised by the offer. “You’re going to cook? You know I don’t keep MREs on hand,” she teased, trying to lighten the mood a little.

Mac chuckled a low, warm sound that eased some of the tension inside her. “There’s a lot about me that’s changed since you’ve been gone. One of them is that I’ve learned my way around a kitchen.”

She smiled at that, a small, genuine smile. “Okay, I’ll take you up on that.”

Mac handed her the shopping bags, and she headed to her bedroom and opted for a shower instead of a bath, letting the hot water wash away the day’s tension. After the shower, she dressed in the tan and black silk pajama sets she got from Cherise’s boutique.

When she emerged from the bedroom, the delicious aroma of lemon and spices filled the air. Jessie followed the scent to the kitchen and found Mac at the stove, his back to her as he expertly moved around the kitchen. She took a seat at the island, watching him in a way that was both comforting and strangely intimate. He glanced over his shoulder at her and flashed that sexy smile that always made her heart skip a beat.

He covered the pan on the stove and walked to the wine fridge, pulling out a bottle of white wine. “Care for a glass?” he asked.

She nodded, and he poured them each a glass. He handed one to her. She took a sip, the cool liquid instantly soothing her nerves.

“Feeling a little more relaxed?” he asked.

“A bit,” she admitted. She still felt nervous, though not as much as before.

Mac leaned against the counter, looking at her with that familiar intensity that always made her feel like she was the only woman in the world. “Good. I’m glad.”

They fell into an easy conversation about cooking, and Jessie found herself genuinely enjoying it. Listening to Mac talk about his newfound love for cooking made her realize how much had changed in the time they’d been apart.

When dinner was ready, he plated their meals and asked where she wanted to eat. She suggested the TV room so they could relax and be more comfortable.

He set the plates on the coffee table while she opened the balcony doors to let in the cool evening air. They sat side by side on the sofa, and as Jessie took her first bite, she was amazed.

“Mac, this is incredible,” she said, looking at him in surprise. “It’s the best chicken piccata I’ve ever had.”

Mac grinned, clearly pleased with her reaction. “Glad you like it.”

She couldn’t wait to see what else he could cook. It was a good thing he learned to cook because she wasn’t that skilled in the kitchen.

The conversation was light through dinner. After they finished eating, Mac set their plates aside and pushed the coffee table away to give them more room. Then he turned to her, his expression serious yet tender.

“Tell me what’s on your mind, Jess.”

Her heart skipped a beat, and she looked into his eyes, seeing the concern and care there. She knew this was her moment to share everything she’d thought about in the car. And as much as she wanted to, the words still felt tangled inside her. Maybe because, under everything, she felt a little bit ashamed. Relationships were supposed to be two-way streets. But going by everything that was inside her head, it had mostly been a one-way street.

When no words would exit her mouth, she leaned into him, resting her head on his shoulder.

Mac wrapped his arm around her, holding her close. “It’s okay,” he murmured. “Take your time.”

At that moment, with his strong arms around her and his presence by her side, Jessie knew she could face anything.

◆◆◆

Mac was happy when Jessie had texted him and asked him to come back to the penthouse. In all honesty, he hated being apart from her.

But just from the tone of her words in the texts, he could sense there was something on her mind.

As they sat there, her head on his shoulder, he knew it would be up to him to give her a little push.

He kissed the top of her head. “Can you sit up for a second?” he asked.

When she sat up, he leaned toward the coffee table, topped off their wine glasses and sat back, handing her glass to her.

“Thank you,” she said, giving him a small smile before taking a sip.

“Talk to me, Jess. You know you can talk to me about anything.”

She bit her lip nervously, her fingers tightening around her wine glass. Mac watched as she took a deep breath, then took a large gulp of wine, and he almost laughed. It was classic, Jessie, trying to muster up some liquid courage. But when she set the glass down, her eyes filled with tears, and it broke his heart.

Without hesitation, he set his glass down and pulled her into his arms. She came willingly, burying her face in his chest as the sobs broke free. Mac held her close, rubbing soothing circles on her back as she cried, her body trembling against his.

“For the past few days, I’ve been so confused,” she finally whispered through her tears.

He tightened his hold on her, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “It’s okay, sunshine.”

Slowly, she began to calm down. Mac continued to hold her, waiting patiently until her breathing evened out.

When she finally pulled back, he cupped her face in his hands, gently wiping the tears from her cheeks. “What are you confused about?” he asked softly.

She hesitated, her eyes darting away before meeting his again. “It sounds stupid, but…”

“Jessie, nothing you say is stupid. Obviously, something has got you worked up. But I can’t help you if you don’t talk to me,” his voice was firm but gentle.

“I don’t want to lose you again,” she exclaimed.

“Hey. Where is all this coming from?” he asked, wondering why she would think she would lose him.

She played with the cuff on her pajama top, trying to avoid his eyes. But then, she huffed out a big sigh and turned her head to meet his gaze.

She then started telling him about a conversation she had with Lacie. Then she started spouting off some shit about him being the one who was putting more effort into their relationship than she was, which upset her because she felt like she was failing their relationship by not making her own sacrifices. He wasn’t going to lie. Knowing she had all this shit bottled up in her pissed him off.

When she finished talking, Mac watched Jessie wipe away the last of her tears. Her eyes were red and puffy, but somehow, she still managed to look ridiculously beautiful. How is that even fair? He thought. Her nose was a little pink, and her hair had gone from perfectly styled to a wild brown mess, but all he could do was grin. She looked like a cross between a heartbroken angel and someone who had just battled a windstorm. And, of course, even with mascara smudged under her eyes, she still made his heart skip a beat.

Leave it to Jessie to make crying her eyes out look cute.

They both sat there for a long minute, staring into each other’s eyes, until Mac couldn’t take it anymore and pulled her into his arms.

“I’m angry with you, Jess,” he murmured against the top of her hair.

“Would you be less angry at me if I admit that I’m angry with myself,” she replied, mumbling into his t-shirt.

Her answer made him laugh. Jesus, she was too cute.

Jessie started to sit up, and Mac reluctantly let her go.

She turned to face him, and he reached out and cupped her cheek.

“Jessie, listen to me. Before we do anything else, let’s clear up a few things. First, you will never lose me,” he grinned as he caressed her cheek with his thumb. “Unless you get tired of my ass and send me packing, then I’m afraid that you’re stuck with me, sunshine. Got it?”

He watched her shoulders relax a little as she listened to him. Then she nodded.

He smiled. “Okay. Now, on to the next. Don’t you ever think that you are not contributing enough to our relationship. Do you hear me complaining?”

“No,” she whispered.

“Jess, I do things for you because I can, and I want to, not out of a sacrifice. I understand that our professions pull us in two different directions, and there may be a few nights we can’t be together. Will it suck? Damn right, it will because I want to be by your side every day.”

He took her face in his hands, cupping her tear-streaked cheeks. He leaned forward and rested his forehead against hers.

“I promise we’ll figure it out. I’ve told you before that I don’t really care where we live. As long as I am with you, I’ll be happy. We could even split our time between Florida and New York. Whatever we decide together, we’ll make it work.”

Mac waited for her to say something, but instead of words, she surprised him by closing the distance between them and kissing him. It was a quick kiss but filled with meaning. When she pulled back, she crawled onto his lap and straddled his body, facing him. She wound her arms around his neck and looked him in the eyes.

“I love you, Mac.”

He closed his eyes, savoring the moment and her spoken words. Pulling her closer to him, he brushed his lips against hers, teasing her soft lips with feather-light kisses. Before he made another pass, she whispered against her lips, “I love you too, sunshine.”

They stayed like that for a while, just holding each other with the world outside forgotten.