Once Upon a Contract (Once Upon #2)

Chapter Five

Ezra

L ast night with my family was exactly what I needed to distract me from everything I have going on with Daphne. I kept catching myself checking my phone to look at the picture she'd sent me with one of the books I got her. It makes me smile every time I see it. Unfortunately, my sister caught me and teased me relentlessly about it.

I hadn't planned on telling my parents about Daphne just yet, but the cat was out of the bag as soon as Celeste opened her big mouth. My mom has been on my case about finding a good woman—or man, if I was so inclined—to share my life with. My parents were high school sweethearts who are in love just as much, if not more, today as they were when they first got together.

I think part of the reason my sister tried making it work with her skeezy ex was because she didn't want to let them down by choosing the wrong partner. Him cheating on her was the nail in the coffin she'd needed to leave, and we were all so glad to finally be rid of him. I know she hated leaning on me to help her after she left him, but I was more than willing to do it. Celeste isn't only my sister but also my best friend, and seeing her doubt herself after what that asshat had done to her made me want to hunt him down and strangle him.

My sister was a freaking model, and still could be if she wanted to, but he made it seem like her fault that he strayed after having their third child because she wasn't "bouncing back" like she'd done with the other two. The best day was when the divorce was finalized and he signed over all of his rights for the kids, which was no surprise to any of us since he'd been absent since the day they were born, even though he'd been around every day.

I took the ribbing from my sister with a smile. Even though she knew she wasn't to blame, and the divorce was the best thing for her and the kids, it took some time for her to get back to the woman she'd been before he tore her down. Plus, I knew her teasing came from the right place since she helped me with my surprise for Daphne and she genuinely wanted to know about Daph.

So did my parents, for that matter. Once I let them know it was very new and I wasn't sure if it would turn into a relationship, my parents eased off a bit, and the rest of the night was filled with laughter, food, and swimming.

I was exhausted by the time I stumbled into my room and passed out almost immediately. I was so tired that I forgot to plug in my phone, and when I woke this morning, it was dead. Looking at my watch, even without my alarm on my phone, I see I have plenty of time to get ready before work. Heading out to my kitchen, I grab my laptop from my bag and boot it up while I get coffee going and look for something to eat for breakfast.

I open the fridge and find a breakfast casserole with instructions on the top, from my mom on how to heat it. I shake my head at her sneaking this into my fridge at some point without telling me. Feeding people is one of her greatest love languages. I've had to up my workouts since she and Dad moved into their house because she loves to do this for me.

With the casserole in the oven and coffee in hand, I head to the stool at the island to go through some of my emails while I wait. I'm just sending off an email to my PA when I hear my phone going off in the other room. I finish taking care of my morning list before getting my phone. I dismiss the emails that I already handled on my laptop but pause when I see Daphne's name in a text notification.

I honestly didn't think I'd hear from her first. I figured I'd have to reach out, so I'm surprised when I open my phone to see a long message sent at 1am last night.

Daphne: Hey Tall, Dark, and Handsome. I just wants to thank you again for the boks you got me. I was thinkin about our date and how we cna help each other more than just that day. Your hot and want to make this date a consistnet thing with set rules, mutually benefit orgasms, and hell, a signed contract while we're at it, so there's no harm done to either of us. We can be so hawt together. Let me know what you tink, big guy. 3

Daphne: OMFG! Please ignore that tezt. Wren stole my phene and we've been drinking. Let's pretend this necer happened, okay?

Daphne: And now I'm going to ceawl into bed and never come out.

A laugh burst free as I reread Daphne's message. It seems the girls had a fun night, which I love for Daphne. I have a feeling Wren is good for her. She's a pistol and knows how to have a good time, but she's also fiercely loyal to those she loves.

Sitting down in my chair, I have to adjust my semi-hard cock in my sleep pants. Even though Daphne said Wren sent the message, which I believe since it was way more forward than I imagine Daphne would be, my brain is hung up on the mutually beneficial orgasms. What I wouldn't give to have a naked Daphne under me screaming my name as I bring her more pleasure than she's ever experienced. I wonder how open she is in the bedroom. I love an adventurous woman and think we could have a lot of fun.

I'm dying to respond but I need to think on how to approach this situation. I don't want to make Daphne run if I come on too strong, but fuck, I want her. I want her in my bed, on my arm, and by my side. If this missent text is my way in, I need to take full advantage of it. If Wren sent this message, it means they were talking about me and our situation. Which means Daphne is just as attracted to me as I am to her. She's just not brave enough to take that step. I can be brave enough for the both of us.

The timer on the oven goes off, and I've got an idea of how I can address this situation with Daphne. There's nothing better than cheesy, eggy goodness and a huge coffee when you're hung over. Grabbing the hot pads out of the cupboard my mom insisted I have, I get the casserole in the container and sealed so it will stay warm on my way to Sparrow Falls.

Snagging my phone from the counter, I pull up Wren's contact. I really hope she's awake and can help me out.

Ezra: Hey, Wren. Are you up? I could use your help with something.

Wren: Hey, man. This is Brooks. Wren is still passed out after her girls' night out. Sorry if she woke you up last night. I only heard the tail end of her and Daphne's conversation, but they were pretty drunk, so I can imagine the messages you got.

Ezra: They sure were something. I was planning on bringing Daphne some breakfast and coffee because I figured it would be a rough morning. I was going to see if Wren knew her favorite drink.

Wren: She likes caramel lattes. I had to do a lot of groveling to get Wren on my side. Her caffeine addiction was always a go-to, but I never felt right bringing her something without getting the other girls something too. I did get her to drink some water and take some Tylenol before I left, so hopefully she isn't feeling too rough today.

Damn, Wren said Brooks was a good guy, but he just earned huge points from me. Anyone who takes care of not only his woman but also her friends is a good man in my book.

Ezra: Thanks, Brooks. I really appreciate you looking after Daphne. Any way you can help me get into the building when I get there?

Wren: Sure, not a problem. I'll send you my contact card, and you can message me when you're here.

Ezra: Thanks. What's your and Wren's order?

Wren: I'm good, but my girl would definitely appreciate a chai latte with white chocolate in it.

Ezra: Done. Send me your info, and I'll let you know when I'm there. It will probably be around half an hour.

With my plan in place, I make quick work of getting ready and out the door to my girl. I call my PA, and tell him I'm going to be late today and to reschedule any morning meetings I have. Matty calls while I'm heading to Sparrow Falls, and I fill him in on what's going on. He laughs and teases me like usual, but he also lets me know I've got his full support in pursuing Daphne.

It's 9am by the time I get to the coffee shop in Sparrow Falls. I place our order and am grateful for small towns when the barista knows Brooks's order. I get all of our drinks before heading towards the tattoo shop. I text Brooks to let him know I'm at the back door and am greeted by him within minutes.

"Hey, I'm Brooks. It's nice to meet you."

"Ezra. I'd shake your hand, but mine are kind of full."

"No problem. Let me get those drinks from you."

"Thanks."

"Wren's up. I had her go check in on Daphne to see how she's doing. She's up but feeling pretty rough. Wren said she might be a little skittish when you first get there, but don't let that deter you. Daphne doesn't know how to let people in and take care of her. There have been too many people who have tried to use her in the past."

"Thanks for the heads-up. Those two are for you and Wren." I point to the drinks before grabbing the carrier from Brooks.

He snags his and Wren's drinks.

"Good luck."

I make my way to Daphne's door. I haven't been this nervous since I was an awkward computer nerd, but something about Daphne has me tied up in knots. Probably because I've wanted her for seven years and I might finally have my chance. I don't want to do anything to mess it up.

Taking in a deep breath, I knock on the door.

"What did you forget…" Daphne's voice falls off as she takes me in. Her eyes widen as she makes a little whimper.

She looks cute as fuck in her barely there sleep shorts and her baggy t-shirt that hangs off her shoulder. Her eyes look even bigger than normal behind her glasses as she gapes at me like a fish.

"Hi, love. I come bearing gifts." I lift my hands to show the drinks and my container. "Mind if I come in?"

"Um, yeah, that's fine." Daphne shifts nervously on her feet before stepping aside to let me in her apartment. I pause in front of her before leaning down and giving her a chaste kiss on the corner of her mouth. Her tongue darts out, caressing the spot where my lips just were. I have to bury the growl that wants to rip free from my chest.

I follow her to the kitchen where she gestures for me to set everything in my hands on the little table tucked into the corner. She goes to grab plates and utensils, but I quickly steer her towards a chair.

"Relax. I've got this." It takes me a few tries to find everything I need, but by the look on her face, it's probably good I'm giving her a minute alone.

"I hope you don't mind me just showing up. I got your messages from last night."

Daphne flinches.

I act like I don't notice as I pass her drink to her and load both of our plates with my mom's delicious breakfast casserole. "There's nothing better for a hangover than cheese and eggs."

She still won't look at me as she pushes her food around on her plate. I nudge her latte towards her and smile as her eyes light up in delight at drinking her favorite drink.

"I may have asked Wren for some assistance in the drink department. She was still sleeping, but Brooks helped me out. He seems like a good guy."

"He's great, and he treats Wren like the queen she is. I'm really glad they found each other." Talking about Wren and Brooks seems to have calmed some of her nerves. She digs into her breakfast, and I have to find every ounce of control to stay in my seat when she moans while she slowly chews.

"Oh my god. This is so good. Thank you for bringing breakfast, Ezra."

"You're welcome. I can't take too much credit. My mom had this stashed in my fridge when I woke up. I just popped it into the oven."

"Well, I appreciate you driving here to share it with me. I was feeling a little rough this morning."

"I'm sorry." I gently squeeze her hand.

Her eyes shoot to mine as she fights through her emotions. Lust, anxiety, and embarrassment are just a few.

We both fall silent as we eat our breakfast, but it's not uncomfortable. Just being here with Daphne eases something in me that I didn't realize needed soothing. Once we're done eating, I insist on cleaning up. Seeing one of the books I bought her on the end table in the living room, I snag it before tugging her to the couch and forcing her to sit down.

When I'm all done cleaning up, I head into the living room to join her. Daphne is completely enraptured in her book and doesn't realize I'm watching her. She's biting her lip as her legs subtly shift back and forth. Her cheeks are flushed and I'm dying to know what she's reading right now.

I clear my throat. Daphne startles before snapping her book closed. Her face flushes deeper, making my cock stiffen in my jeans. I have a feeling she was reading something dirty by the way she's acting.

"You enjoying the book?" I sit down on the couch and pull her feet into my lap. I start rubbing them, making her whimper as she relaxes back into the couch even more, closing her eyes.

"That feels so good, Ez."

"Good. I'm glad. We need to talk, love."

Daphne groans, but instead of it being in pleasure, it's from embarrassment.

"But do we? Don't drunk texts get a pass?"

"Sure they do. But I have a feeling there was a whole lot of truth in those drunk texts."

She won't look at me, which won't do for this serious of a conversation.

"Daphne," I command, making her snap her eyes to look into mine.

"I rather liked a lot of the things you proposed in your—well Wren's—text and need to know your actual thoughts on them. I, for one, would be more than willing to enter any kind of arrangement with you, but I have to know what you need and want first."

Gulping nervously, Daphne twists the blanket in her lap.

"Wren and I were talking about it, and we both agreed you and I could probably help each other out more than the one date."

"Okay, so what did you have in mind, Daph?"

"Um, well if we fake dated, maybe my mom would get off my back while I make new connections for the foundation., and you wouldn't have to worry about women attaching themselves to you for the wrong reasons."

"I can agree that those are all good reasons. I've also had some pressure from the board members due to my single status. If I was in a steady, committed relationship, that would appease them. What about the mutually beneficial orgasms? If we're together, even with the pretense that it's not a real relationship, you're mine and I'm yours."

Daphne squeaks as her face flushes brighter and her eyes dart away from mine.

Gripping her chin, I force her to look at me.

"I'd be honored to worship you, Daphne. If you want a sexual relationship, I'm definitely on board."

"Um…" She gulps. "I think I'd like that. I'd want to be good for you too, Ezra."

"Love, there is zero doubt in my mind that you won't be exactly what I need." I see her anxiety rising, so I push ahead. I don't want a fucking contract. I want her for real, but I need to convince her that she wants me the same way first. "I'm down with us coming up with a contract if it makes you feel better."

"Maybe not a formal contract, but can we have some rules?"

"That should be fine. What rules were you thinking?"

"Well, I agree that if we're together, we aren't with anyone else."

"Absolutely."

"We need to be seen together and in places where it will get back to my parents. So, maybe two date nights a month in the city?"

"I will take you on as many dates as you want and take you wherever you want to go."

"While I appreciate that, I don't need you to spend gobs of money on me. In fact, I'd prefer it if you didn't. I don't want to feel like I'm being paid to spend time with you."

"I understand where you're coming from, but I have to disagree. It's my right to spoil the hell out of you if I want. It might not always be fancy things or lavish date nights, but I deserve that right. It's what I'd do dating anyone else."

She bites her lip as she thinks it over before slowly nodding.

"What about rules when it comes to sex? Are you on birth control? And are you clean? I just got tested at my physical the other month. I can send you the results if you'd like."

Her face is flaming, and her eyes are huge right now. I have a feeling my girl's a bit of a prude.

"I am on birth control. I've been on it since I was a teen to help with my endometriosis. And I'm clean. I haven't been tested in a while, but I can get tested if you'd like."

"No, I trust you." And I do. Any other woman, I would demand the tests, but there's no reason for me to believe Daphne is lying to me.

"Okay."

"We can always add or change rules if you see fit, but for the love of God, can I please kiss you now?"

"Y-you want to kiss me?"

"I want to more than kiss you, but I'll take your lips first."

I wait on bated breath until Daphne slowly nods. I lean forward on the couch and tug her until she's in my lap, then bury my hands in her hair. One slides to grip the back of her neck while the other holds her cheek where I want her. I place a light kiss on her lips once, twice then slam my mouth down on hers.

Daphne whimpers as I deepen the kiss. Her hands are gripping my shoulders as I slide my tongue into her mouth. Her hips start rocking on my hard cock, which rips a growl from me. My hands go to her ass, squeezing as I guide her over my hard length. The kiss breaks apart as I help Daphne work herself on my dick. What I wouldn't give to be buried in her right now, but I'll take having the chance to watch her fall apart without being completely distracted by her hot heat.

Her legs are shaking as she throws her head back. I kiss down her neck as her breathing gets more erratic and her thighs clench around my waist. I pull her nipple into my mouth, soaking the fabric of her tee. My name falls from her lips as her climax races through her. She's still on a high as I lay her back on the couch and kiss my way down her body.

I hook my hands in her shorts and slowly start to tug them down. "Lift your butt, love."

Daphne does, a question in her eyes as I tug her shorts and underwear off. I kiss up her legs until I wedge my shoulders between her thighs and lift her ass higher. I lick through her folds up to her clip. Daphne's head is thrashing about as she breathes heavily and mumbles something I can't quite understand.

I give her clit my undivided attention before sliding a finger into her hot center. I slide another finger in, making her pulse around my digits. She's so fucking tight. I can't wait to feel her clench around me.

"Oh shit. I'm coming."

She floods my mouth. I groan, grinding my dick into the couch. I could probably come like this, but I haven't gone off in my jeans in years and I'm not about to start now. I slowly bring her down before kissing my way back up her body, then hover over her mouth. She grabs the back of my head and slams her mouth onto mine.

I slowly ease up the kiss and just stare down at her for a minute. She's always stunning, but even more so now that she's completely sated and relaxed. I don't want to go, but my phone rings in my pocket. I lean back to check the screen and frown when I see Matty's name. I miss the call but, a second later, get a text from him.

Matty: So fucking sorry to bug you while you're trying to win your girl over, but I need you to come in ASAP. We've got an issue with the new app and the development team is stuck. We need to get it figured out now, or all work is going to stop. We can't afford that since we're already behind schedule.

Ezra: Fuck. Alright, I'll be there in about half an hour.

Matty: Thanks, Ez. Tell your girl I'm sorry.

"Everything okay?"

"Unfortunately, no. We're working on a new app that has been a pain in my ass since day one. The development team is stuck and needs me to look at it. I have to go even, though I really don't fucking want to."

"I'm sorry." She shifts her legs back and forth before glancing down at my still-hard cock. "Do you want me to take care of you before you leave?"

I groan running a hand down my face. "Love, if I let you anywhere near my cock right now, there's no way I'm leaving and I really fucking need to go."

"Okay." She nods as I stand.

I help her to her feet and smirk when she wobbles, still affected by the orgasms I gave her. I pull her to me in a hug before tipping her chin up, so she meets my eyes.

"Thank you for letting me have breakfast with you. I'll call you later, okay?"

"Yes. Thanks for thinking of me and bringing me sustenance."

I smile as I lean in and give her a rough kiss before tearing away and heading out her door. I'm still so fucking hard and would do about anything to turn back and finish what we started, but at least I'm leaving knowing that I'll have another chance to do just that soon.