Once Upon a Contract (Once Upon #2)

Chapter Eight

Ezra

I haven't seen Daphne in a few days, and it's starting to get to me. I'm grateful as fuck that the gala is tonight, and I think everyone else around me is as well.

"Will you put down your phone and come swim with us? I know you're pining over Daphne, but you're going to see her later. Come have fun with me and the kids. Look, Layla wants you." My sister holds up my eleven-month-old niece, who kicks her feet as she reaches her hands out towards me, babbling up a storm.

I put my phone on the table in the shade, stand up, and head to the pool. Taking a running start, I launch over Celeste and Layla to cannon balling in the pool. When I come to the surface and shake the water out of my eyes, Layla is clapping and squealing in delight while a soaking-wet Celeste glares at me.

"Was that really necessary?" Celeste grouches.

"Ha ha. Be careful what you wish for, little sis. You wanted me to come play, so I did. Don't be mad that you don't like the way I went about it."

"God, you're such a pain in my ass."

"Ath, ath, ath," Layla happily yells, making crack up.

Her mom glares even harder in my direction.

"Give me my baby," I demand as I swim closer to them, arms outstretched.

As soon as I'm close, Layla lunges for me. Her face dips in the water before I can scoop her up. Unlike other babies I've been around, the water doesn't faze her at all. She giggles before burying her chubby little face into the crook of my neck. I squeeze her close to me and sigh as some of my edginess over missing Daphne slips away. This is exactly why I called my sister to come swim with us.

"Where are the other two gremlins?"

"Mom and Dad took them into the pool house for a nap about an hour ago while you were in your office. They didn't want to disturb you."

"They could've come inside. I always want you all here, even if I am busy."

"Hmm, maybe now, but I can see that changing soon. I think Mom and Dad are trying to respect that by taking the kids into the pool house. Besides, it still has everything they need in there since you insisted on buying all new furniture for my new place." Celeste gives me a pointed look.

"You're damn right I did. What's the point of having all of this money if I can't do nice things for the ones I love, hmm?"

"I know. But I also want you to know that you don't have to and that I don't expect you to. I know it's hard to remember since I haven't worked in a while, but I did pretty well for myself as a model before I retired. Thanks to you, I made some very lucrative investments that will have me and the kids set for all of our lives. I don't want us to be a burden on you or ever get too comfortable."

"I know I don't have to, and you will never be a burden to me. You've always been one of my best friends, sis, and I fucking love your rugrats. Having you all here makes this big house seem less empty." I pull Celeste to me by her shoulders and give her a kiss on the crown of her head.

Layla mimics me, kissing her mama on the head and making us all smile after our heavier conversation.

"Hopefully, you won't be so lonely in this big old house soon. Hell, maybe you'll end up adding a few munchkins of your own. Do you know if Daphne wants kids?"

"Slow your roll, Cel. I still haven't convinced her that I want to date her for real. If I brought up the kid talk now, she'd be running for the hills."

"Eh, I suppose. You could always phrase it in a way so she doesn't realize you want her to have your babies."

"Damn, give me a break."

I roll my eyes before swimming away with Layla. To be fantasizing about Daphne having my babies is completely asinine since I can't even get her to date me for real, but a part of me can't get the image of Daph with a swollen belly—my baby in it—out of my mind now that Celeste gave me that image.

I spend the rest of my afternoon with my family. The kids are the best distraction to burn the hours until it's time to go get Daphne.

I can't wait to see her. Tink sent me a devious text, teasing about how I'm going to need to have an AED on hand to resuscitate me when I die from seeing Daphne. I hate that I'll have to share her with other people, especially her parents, but I am pumped that Matty knows the event coordinator and was able to confirm that we aren't seated together for dinner.

I'm just finishing getting my tux on when my mom knocks on my door to let me know my car is here.

"Oh, Ezra. You look so handsome, son."

"Thanks, Mom." I step up to give her a squeeze as she wipes tears from her eyes. The woman is a huge softy and acts like it's my prom all over again every time she sees me in a tux.

"Do you and dad want me to drop you off at your house when we head out?"

"No, we can walk, dear. It's not that far, and it's a beautiful night. Have fun. And if you can, will you please get a picture of the two of you together? I can't wait to meet her."

"I'll see what I can do. Just give me a little time with her. I don't want to scare her off yet."

"Alright, honey. Have a great night."

"Will do. Night, Mom."

I kiss her on the cheek and wave at my dad as he walks out from the kitchen. I know they'll lock up for me when they leave.

Even though the drive to Sparrow Falls is only about fifteen minutes from my house, it seems like forever. I asked Daphne if she wanted me to pick her up in the back alley, but she said she'd meet me in front of the tattoo shop. She said the girls want to see us together before we leave, so that would work the best.

I grab the bouquet I had the driver pick up on the way and head out of the car to the front of the shop. When I open the door, my jaw drops at the vision in front of me.

Daphne's back is towards me, completely bared to just above the top of her ass. Her hair is up, off her neck in a complex twist of braids and curls. A crimson-red swatch of fabric comes over her shoulder and down to the waist, two thin strips of crystal going across the middle of her back. The dress hugs her ass before flowing out around her legs, and it takes everything in me not to run my fingers over all of that exposed skin.

Wren's eyes catch mine as a smirk fills her face. Meadow cuts off her words mid-sentence as her eyes round, checking me out from head to toe. When Daphne spins to see what her friends are looking at, it steals my breath how fucking stunning she is.

My eyes don't know where to look first, but hers pull me in with the intensity of her desire that I'm sure mirrors my own. I slowly take a better look at her. She's fucking gorgeous. The dress teases her full breasts and strips of her sculpted stomach as the fabric weaves a complex design over her chest. The rest of the dress is long and flowy, but I catch a glimpse of her leg as she shifts on her feet. I can't wait to see how high that slit goes.

"Fuck me, Daphne. You look incredible." I take a few quick steps forward, closing the gap separating us, as I set the bouquet on the front counter.

I run my fingers down her cheek before swirling a stray piece of hair around one. Sliding my hand behind her neck, I grasp it and tug her so her front is pressed to me.

Daphne sucks in a shaky breath, which makes me smirk. I use my other hand to tip her chin up to make sure she's looking into my eyes. We're so close that it would only take a slight bend of my head to bring our lips together.

"I mean it, Daphne. You're the most stunning thing I've ever seen. I can't wait to spend the evening with you." Leaning in, I close the distance and place a feather-light kiss on the corner of her mouth before pulling away.

Daphne's eyes flutter open, and I'm instantly lost in her gaze.

I take a slow step back and am pulled out of our little bubble by clapping. Daphne's head whips around, and I can't help but laugh at Wren fanning her face and Meadow bouncing around enthusiastically. Brooks has joined the girls and has his arm draped over Wren's shoulder, laughing at both of their antics.

"Oh my God. Please stop clapping, Meadow." Daphne's hands cover her face, hiding her embarrassment.

I tug Daphne closer and am surprised when she doesn't stiffen but buries her face into my chest instead. Wrapping my arms around her, I laugh at her crazy friends.

"Daph, if you witnessed how fucking hot that was, you'd be acting the same way," Wren teases.

"Little minx, leave her alone." Brooks squeezes Wren closer to him.

"Hi, I'm Meadow. I'm so excited to meet you." Meadow floats towards us, arms stretched open. I go to shake her hand, but Meadow bypasses it to wrap her arms around both Daphne and me. Well, she tries to hug both of us, but she's a tiny little thing compared to us.

I take one arm from around Daphne and wrap it around Meadow, giving her a squeeze.

"It's nice to meet you, Meadow."

Meadow steps back as Daphne pulls her face out of my chest but stays tucked by my side. This is the most at ease she's been with me. I'm hoping it stays that way so we can have the best night and she can see how good we could be together.

"Alright, we need to head out if we're going to make it to the event on time and get some schmoozing done. It was nice to meet you ladies. We'll all have to get together soon. Maybe we can do a cookout at my place. It's only about fifteen minutes from here."

"That sounds fantastic," Meadow trills.

Both girls give us hugs, and Brooks shakes my hand.

I guide Daphne towards the door. Once we're in the car, my shy girl crawls back out.

Sliding her closer to me on the back seat, I wrap my hand in hers as I run my thumb over it.

"Are you anxious for the event?"

"A little. I'm actually second-guessing why I thought this dress would be a good idea."

"Because it was made for you, love. You will be the most gorgeous woman there tonight. Nobody will be able to take their eyes off you, including me."

"That's the problem. I don't want to be the center of attention. I just want to be your date and make it through the night without a million eyes on me and the scrutiny of every mean girl there. Plus, my mother always insists I cover my tattoos. I don't want to deal with that fight tonight."

"Don't worry, Daph. I'll keep the vultures at bay."

"And my mother?"

"I'll make sure she keeps her snarky comments to herself. As a bonus, I made sure we won't be sitting at her table. The event coordinator is Matty's friend. She promised to make sure we're far away and that your mother won't be able to switch us around."

We make it to the gala right on time. Daphne has to take a fortifying breath before stepping out of the car, but as soon as we hit the red carpet, she's in full character. She's magnificent as she smiles for pictures, shoulders back and head held high. She handles the yelling photographers with grace, which makes me proud to have her as my date. It isn't until we enter the event hall that her feet falter some.

"Ezra, I don't think I can do this. I-I…"

"Daphne, you can. You just handled that red carpet like a seasoned pro. I know this is a little more intimidating, but you will be fine. We'll stick together. You're helping make this night a million times better than it would have been if I had to do this on my own. Let's head to the bar and get a little liquid courage, then we'll make our rounds."

"Okay."

The next hour goes well as we make our way around the ballroom. Daphne lights up when asked about her foundation. Several of my connections are interested and promise to set up meetings come Monday. As for keeping the vultures at bay, I've witnessed several nasty glares thrown Daphne's way, but the women have left us both alone. Dinner is just about to start when I see Daphne's parents making their way to us.

"Incoming, love."

Daphne looks up to me and then follows my eyes. She takes a steadying breath before squaring her shoulders. I pull her into my side, keeping her close to me to give her my support.

"Daphne, look at you." Her mom grabs both of Daphne's hands and tries to pull her out of my arms.

I don't let go but instead pull her closer to me.

Her mother's eyes narrow in my direction. She finally lets go of Daphne's hand when her husband grabs her elbow.

"Hi, Mom and Dad. This is Ezra Winters."

"Mr. Senator." I reach out to shake his hand before turning to his wife to place a chaste kiss on her cheek.

"Ezra, how are you? It's been a few years since we've last talked."

"I'm doing very well, sir. Even better since Daphne agreed to be my date tonight."

"You are most definitely lucky to have my daughter as a date," he says with a fond smile at his daughter, making me wonder if he's sincere or if this is just a front.

"I'd say you're lucky since the man I had lined up for her to meet would have been a perfect match. I suppose you're happy to have snagged my daughter when you could." Daphne's mom's eyes linger on my tattoo-covered hand still wrapped around her daughter, the disdain apparent in her voice.

"How did this come about?" Daphne's dad tries to steer the conversation in another direction.

"I went to get a tattoo at Daphne's shop. When my usual artist was unavailable, she asked if I'd be comfortable with one of her coworkers filling in. Imagine my delight when Daphne walked in the door. I hadn't had the chance to talk to her in years, but I was ecstatic to catch up with her. I actually have you to thank, Mrs. Barkley, for getting Daphne here with me."

"Me?"

"Yes. You called during our session. Daphne said you probably wanted to know about this event. When I found out she would be here, I couldn't miss the chance to bring her as my date. Luckily for me, she agreed, and I've had the pleasure to have your magnificent daughter in my life on a regular basis since."

"Well, that sounds wonderful. Will you two be seated with us?" The senator asks.

Before I can answer, Daphne's mom interjects, "Of course they will be sitting with us, Richard. Where else would they be sitting?"

"Actually, we won't be. I have a few business associates that I think would be very interested in Daphne's foundation. We will be sitting with them tonight."

"That's wonderful for you, darling. Diversifying is always a good idea." Her father beams at Daphne as her mother seethes beside him.

"What would have been wonderful is if you had just listened to me and come alone, so you could meet Anthony. Not some—"

"Mother, please stop. I appreciate you wanting to set me up with someone, but I'm not interested. I am here with Ezra, and I am very happy about that."

"I'm glad you're happy, Daphne." Her dad leans in and kisses her on her forehead. Before her mom can say anything else, he steers her around us and across the dance floor. I can hear her scathing tone as they walk away, but I have no idea what they're saying. The senator smiles and says hi to a few people, all the while I can see her chirping in his ear.

"So…"

"Your mother seems lovely."

"Ugh, she's the worst. Sorry she was so rude to you."

"It's okay, love. You don't need to apologize for her. Now that that's over, we can hopefully enjoy the rest of the night together."

And enjoy the night is exactly what we do. Dinner is great and the connections Daphne makes will be helpful for her foundation. By the time dinner is over, my desire for her is almost insatiable.

"Dance with me?"

"Yes." As soon as the words are out of her mouth, I pull her to the dance floor.

The song is slow and seductive. I have Daphne flush to my chest, and I can't miss the way her breaths are rising and falling rapidly.

I slide my leg between hers as I discreetly roll my hips into her. She whimpers as she buries her face in my neck. I move one hand up her back until I can grasp her neck, then I squeeze it as I pull her head back to look at me. Her pupils are blown, and she's all but panting now. Unable to wait another minute, I slam my lips on hers.

I devour her right there on the dance floor for everyone to see. I'm staking my claim, whether Daphne realizes it or not. Nobody else will touch this woman. She's mine, and I'm going to do everything I possibly can to keep her.

We pull apart so that we can catch our breaths, and I stare into her eyes, where I see her desire is just as wild as my own.

"Time to go, love." I lean down and nip her plump bottom lip, making her gasp.

Daphne looks up at me and nods.

We don't stop to say goodbye to anyone, just head straight to the door and into the back seat of the car, the driver ready and waiting since I called him as we headed out of the gala.

"Where am I taking you, Daphne? Your house or mine?"

She fidgets in her seat, not making eye contact.

I grab her chin and direct her to look at me. "Answer me."

"I-I don't have anything with me."

"So, you want to go to your place?"

She bites her lip.

"I have everything you would need at my house. I'm sure Celeste wouldn't mind you wearing some of the clothes she keeps stashed there."

Daphne ponders it for a minute. "Okay."

"Thank fuck." I slam my lips over her mouth, devouring her in one breath. Leaning over, I unbuckle Daphne before pulling her into my lap. She moans as I slap her hips down on mine and slip my tongue in her mouth. My hand trails up her smooth thigh, loving the high slit of her dress. My hand brushes over the lace that covers her hot center, pulling a groan from me.

I slip my finger under her panties and thrust it up into her. Daphne pulls her mouth off on a gasp as I slowly thrust into her pussy. Her tight walls are already fluttering as I slip another digit in her center. I rub my thumb over her clit as Daphne starts riding my hand.

"That's right, love. Fuck my fingers. Make yourself come."

Daphne throws her head back as a silent scream rips from her throat and her cum soaks my hand. She slumps forward on me as she slowly comes down.

We're still sitting like that when the driver's voice comes over the speaker and lets us know we've made it to my home. Daphne startles as she slides off my lap and tries to get herself situated. I push the button to let the driver know I'll let us out and thank him.

Daphne is shaky on her legs, so I scoop her up in my arms and head for my front door. I can't keep my lips off her as I make my way inside. I'm so painfully hard that it hurts to walk. I can't resist slamming her back to the door as I take her mouth in another fierce kiss. I grind my length into her warm heat as she keens.

"Fuck, Daphne. I need you. You're on birth control, right?"

"Yes, a-and I'm clean. A-are you?"

"Yes. It's been a while for me, and I was tested at my last appointment. I'm clean and can show you if you'd like."

"I trust you."

"Thank fuck." I get the door open and stumble into the entry way.

I push Daphne up against the wall, unable to wait another minute, then slide her panties down far enough to bare her to me before pulling out my aching cock. I rub it over her dripping cunt before thrusting in hard.

She's so fucking tight. I almost blow my load. I'd be in complete ecstasy if the cry coming from Daphne wasn't one of pain instead of pleasure. I feel fucking awful as I slowly pull out of her. I know I'm bigger than most, but I didn't think about that in my need to have her.

When I look down between us, red coats my cock.

What. The. Fuck? There's no way this woman could still be a virgin, let alone not tell me something so important.

Rage, lust, and desire rip through me knowing what she's given me.

"Daphne, look at me." She hesitates, but her eyes finally find mine. Tears are rolling down her cheeks, gutting me.

"Are you a virgin, love?"