The Heiress (Book 2 of the Forbidden Series)

16

The week came and went. Alexander occupied his days with work on his video contract and his nights with Raw Body. He saved up as much as he could to pay back David for his generosity. The relief of no creditors had improved his mother’s health greatly. The reduced stress had made her stronger and youthful again. She was regressing, but Alexander did not get his hopes up, he knew it was only temporary and delaying the inevitable, but still, it was nice to see her looking so well.

Friday was full of love and excitement. The whole neighbourhood had turned out for the barbeque to rejoice with Alexander and Maria, and even the guys had come by with the condition they did not tell his mother how they knew each other. The party filled up the back and front yard. Some of the neighbours had brought over their barbeques and offered to help Maria with the cooking. Alexander and a few others had gone to the store in need of more buns and burgers as the numbers grew.

The street hockey game was called to allow a black Merzadies-Benz to pass. A flashy car for that area of town it drew everyone’s attention. The sports car came to a slow stop at the curb outside Maria’s home drawing looks and whispers, theories of who it might be and their reason for being there. Maria stood on her porch watching the car door open surrounded by friends and neighbour. Two dark-suited men with earpieces stepped out and stood beside the car. One reached down and opened the back door.

Excited screams rose up, and Maria felt her heart skip a beat as a tall ruggedly handsome well-dressed man stepped from the car. Removing his sunglasses, she could see his sparkling dark eyes and the charming smile he was so famous for. He had salt n’ pepper hair, but his identity and confidence were unmistakable. David Thompson was shaking hands with neighbours and walking up her sidewalk.

David stepped up on the first step of the shabby porch his hand extending to Maria. Shaking his hand, she welcomed him back to her humble home. “Hello, Maria you are looking well.”

“I hear I have your gracious charity to thank for that.”

“I’m just a wealthy man with a social conscience. I prefer to pick the people I feel need the help and not just donate for tax purposes.”

“Thank the blessed lord for good men like you. Have you come to join us for some burgers?” She asked.

“I’m looking for Alexander actually, is he around?”

“You are David Thompson.” One of her neighbours squealed excitedly.

“Yes, I am.” He smiled, this reaction occurred often.

“You are a Heathen.” She continued in disbelief.

“Yes… I am.” He took Maria aside and asked again. “Is Alexander home?”

“He is not here; he went to the store. Would you like to join us and wait?”

“That would be lovely.” He grinned following her inside.

“I am sorry. Would you like something to drink? Ice tea, lemonade, whatever you want.”

“Ice tea sounds fine, thank you,” David answered politely following Maria inside.

Maria rushed into the kitchen leaving him alone. David placed his briefcase on the coffee table and looked around. “Will Alexander be home soon?” He called to her.

“What is it you want with my son?” She asked, coming into the room with a glass.

“He works for me, among other things.” David frowned sipping his ice tea.

The front door opened and David rose from his seat placing the glass on the coffee table. Alexander, Rick and Sara carried in bags of food and drinks. “This should be enough now.” Alexander froze when he saw David standing in his living room. When he saw the car out front, he had hoped Layla had come after all. “Hello.” He said with some disappointment.

David strolled over to help them with the bags taking Sara’s load. “Oh my god, do you know who you are?” She gasped excitedly.

David leaned in flirtatiously, pleased that he could still turn the young ones’ heads in his old age. “No… who?”

She giggled uncontrollably. “Sara, go outside and get me a beer,” Rick grumbled feeling insulted by his girlfriend’s behaviour. Sara obediently disappeared out the door.

David apologized to Rick. “Old habits die hard. Forgive me; I don’t usually get that reaction from women under forty anymore. When I do, I like to enjoy it.”

“I’m not mad. I’m used to it Alexander here gets that reaction regularly. I only wish half those women would giggle idiotically at me.”

The men carried the bags to the kitchen. David joined everyone for a burger and beer, signing autographs and telling tales. Never once had he mentioned to Alexander his reason for attending and Alexander did not wish to question. The rock legend’s presence had made his mother’s party a great success. He had never seen her so excited not even when she was given her home back. Maria dined and celebrated with a man she had idolized for thirty-five years and Alexander allowed her to enjoy the little joys she had left.

It was a side of David that Alexander had not been privy to before that afternoon. A light-hearted, fun loving, easy going man… and he was sober. He seemed as comfortable in the slums of New York as he did in the spotlight of the society pages. They burnt the mortgage and opened the wine. As the party wound down, David assisted Alexander in cleaning up the garbage and leftovers. Dragging the disposable tablecloth from the lawn table, Alexander heard the sound of an approaching engine. Pausing, he looked out on to the street as he had many times that day, waiting and watching for the vehicle to show itself.

“She is not coming,” David informed him with sympathy induced by beer and wine.

Alexander bunched up the tablecloth and stuffed it into the trash. “I don’t know what you are talking about.” He said coolly in an indifferent tone, or so he hoped. He had difficulty reading David. When he drank Alexander got the feeling the man liked him, but in his sober moments the man was insufferable in his disapproval of Alexander.

“Ok, so it’s going to be like that. Alright.” David shrugged tossing the last bag into the trash heap. “Then that aside we will talk shop. You have routines for me, right?”

Alexander smiled instantly, proud of his work and eager to take it to the next level. “Come inside.” Alexander led David into the garage where he had cleared away some space for practice. The disc still in the small portable radio, Alexander cued up the first single he had worked on. “Now this one is awesome but simple even the ten-year-old down the street can do this, in fact, that is where I got the idea.” He confessed with a smile.

He ran through the first routine and then the second. First showing it in its entirety and then breaking down the steps. David got up and tried to learn them both to see how easy they were to pick up on. For the most part, they were simple enough, but his body was old, and despite his efforts to remain in shape he could not keep up with the youth of today. After three or four hours Alexander decided to call a break and get some refreshments. Telling David, he was parched from the exertion. Both men understood the real reason was to allow David some rest before his old body gave out.

Alexander went for the drinks and found his mother leaning over the kitchen sink coughing violently. Her thin, sickly frame shook with the effort. Alexander opened the drawer closest to him and removed a new box of tissue. Tearing it open he crossed the room and dabbed the blood droplets from her lips. Her pale face blush red, her weak eyes tired from the strain. Alexander placed his arm around his mother, and her body immediately rested into the support of his own. “You should rest.” He said softly. “You have had far too much excitement today.”

“Nonsense, I need a little excitement in my life while I still have one. I don’t want to go to bed and wait to die.”

“Even so you should go to bed, for now, it’s late, and you’re tired,” Alexander argued coaxing his mother toward the hallway. He would carry her to bed if he must.

“Forget it; we have company. I will not be so rude as to retire before our guest leaves.” Maria snapped in her fragile tone.

“Please don’t stay up on my account. I was leaving.” David’s voice broke their argument.

Maria struggled her way from her doting son’s arms and fussed over her sickly appearance. “Please no, I don’t want you to feel rushed. You two may continue with your work. Don’t worry about me; please go about your business. Can I get you another beer, or…”? She stumbled feeling dizzy and drained.

David’s arms flew out to catch the ailing woman. His arms closed around her in support. His charming smile eased her embarrassment. “I must go; your son has worn me out. This ragged old body of mine can’t take the abuse it used to. I need a night to recover before he breaks me.” David said politely helping Maria to her feet.

“See Mother, now let’s get you to bed.” Alexander reached for her arm.

“I will see our guest out. Quit rushing me; you forget who the parent is in this house.” Maria snapped she hated when her son babied her.

David observed Alexander’s frustrated expression, and before he could open his mouth to protest her stubbornness, David extended his arm to Maria playing every bit the gentleman he was known as. “Please, let me take you to bed.” He spoke, playful innuendos bringing a smile to her face.

Maria laced her arm around his. “I bet the last time you said that to a woman you didn’t come out for a week.” She teased.

“Yes, but I’m a married man now and have behaved myself for over twenty years, but if ever a woman could tempt me to stray.” He winked. David escorted Maria form the room leaving Alexander baffled. David was a shameless flirt, and his mother was acting like a giddy school girl.

It was only minutes before Alexander met David at the door. Stepping into his shoes David picked up his case as though the conversation between him and Alexander’s mother had not occurred. Alexander crossed his arms with a smug smile. “Does your wife approve of the way you carry on?”

David grinned, never one to be ashamed or embarrassed by his past. If Alexander had issues with it that was his problem. “That was just harmless flirting, and it served its purpose.” He grinned patting Alexander on the shoulder. “Relax, I love my wife, and there is not a woman on earth that could change that.” David opened the front door his security seated on the porch rose as their charge exited the house. David turned to Alexander standing in the doorway. “Those routines were spectacular. I want to start training Monday. We will be filming next weekend. Keep bringing me material like that, and I’ll have you booked through the next year.”

Alexander gleamed with excitement. Then the reality of the situation came to his mind. “Will I be as busy as Layla?”

“That is the nature of the beast my young friend. Show business is very demanding. Very competitive. It is very time consuming and if you are not willing to do what it takes then get out now or you will crash and burn.”

Alexander pondered the idea of such a workload. He would be gone a lot, odd hours or sleeping. He would not have the time to care for his mother. She was too far along to leave for too long a time and only getting worse by the day. This opportunity was amazing, but his mother came first. “My mother… I can’t be… I mean, it’s just that…” He fumbled over the words. How could he turn his back on either? It was an opportunity of a lifetime against his mother.

David shrugged understanding the conflict in his associate’s heart. “Hire a live-in caregiver. I’ll see you Monday. I’ll send a car for you.”

“I can’t afford that.”

David stepped toward Alexander grinning. “Paradise Records has an excellent benefits plan. You should look into it.” David turned and started toward the car followed by the two men from the porch. “I’ll have my assistant speed you through the paperwork.” He called back to Alexander opening the back door of his ride.

“But what if something happens how will they contact me?” Alexander asked walking toward the street, still concerned about leaving the care of his mother in someone else’s hands.

“Then they will call your cell, and I’ll have you where you need to be if I have to fly you there myself.”

“I don’t have a cell.”

David stood still in awe. “Are you serious? Even six-year-olds have cells now a day. What are you Amish? Get one, you are going to need one in this industry; damn things are more important than air.”

“But I…”

“Write it up as a business expense. Anything else?” David glanced over Alexander’s shoulder at the rusted motorcycle. “Is that the only vehicle you own?”

Alexander stared at his bike, shrugging his shoulders; he did not see what was wrong with it. “Yeah, why?”

“I see I have my work cut out for me. Ok, the cardinal rule in this business… image is everything. An impression can make or break you. Get yourself some nice, yet functional, clothes and I’ll have a company car pick you up and drop you off. It will work out to your benefit anyway. If people think you are too important to drive yourself around, then they will only want you more.” David winked climbing into his car.

Alexander watched his employer drive off. Standing alone in the street, he saw David in a new light. His problems were of no concern to David, and still, the man took the time to be friendly with his mother and provide the necessary care needed in exchange for Alexander’s services. He now saw what Rolland was talking about… David was incredibly generous, especially for a man of his station.

Alexander smiled and rushed back into the house he could not wait to tell his mother the good news. He had to write up an ad and research the backgrounds of home care agencies in search of a suitable caregiver. He was not about to leave his mother with just anybody. Besides, the task would keep Layla off his mind… for a while at least.

***

Layla signed her name to the last document pushed before her. “There.” She placed the pen on the desk and massaged the muscles in her cramped hand. It had taken two months in total, but she was finally done. Her album was complete and ready for marketing. Two weeks from now it would be released and on the shelves. She was already hearing her first single getting airtime on the radio. She stood on the brink of her future both excited for the rewards and frightened by the challenges yet to come.

Layla had confidence in her talent but was faced with the burden of removing herself from the shadows of her larger than life relatives. She would instantly be compared to her father and grandfather along with her mother and uncle’s successes. Even Dane was doing well for himself forcing her to compete with her little brother for airtime and recognition. Dane had already gone off on tour with FX three weeks ago. Damien had arranged for Dane to serve as an opening act on the second half of FX’s world tour. It was great publicity for him, touring with a major headliner; it was how her mother had gotten started.

Layla leaned back in her seat ready to spend the next two weeks relaxing; she had earned it. She thought of Alexander as she often did, and now she had the time to go to him. It had been a month without sight or word from Alexander, and she only hoped he still held a spot for her in his heart. She rose from her seat and shook hands with her father’s associate then headed to her father’s office.

He was not in his assistant had told her. David had gone out to a video shoot and would not be back for a few hours. “Maybe then you can tell me what shoot?” Layla coaxed the round little woman chewing on the end of her pen.

Her podgy cheeks filled out as she smiled. “Now you know Miss. Thompson I’m not supposed to give out his schedule to anyone but him.”

Layla rapped her nails on the smooth marble top of the main desk. There was no rule about another employee’s schedule, and she was the boss’ daughter after all. “Well, then what do you say you take a little look in that database and tell me if a Mr. Alexander Sinton is working today, and if so where he might be found?” She had heard that he had accepted a position at Paradise Records awhile back after being fired from the house.

The older woman’s brows narrowed in a scolding manner. “I shouldn’t.” She lectured typing in the name on her keyboard. “What does he do for us?”

“Choreographer.”

Her short sausage fingers plugged at the keys. “Ok, Mr. Sinton is working tonight, studio seventy-two.”

“Thank you; you are the best.” Layla grinned leaning over the edge to pat the woman on the back.

“Don’t get too excited it’s a closed set.” She frowned. “You won't get in.”

Layla was not worried; she was the boss’ daughter that alone opened hundreds of locked doors. Layla practically ran down the halls. She wanted to go home and shower before she crashed the shoot. She pushed past her security detail with a wide smile. “Home.” She instructed once at her car.

“Yes, Miss. Thompson. You have a riding companion by the way.” Gregory informed her with a wink. “An attractive young gentleman awaits you inside.” He opened the back door gesturing her to enter.

Alexander!

Her heart skipped a beat with enthusiasm bowing her head she climbed into the backseat of her town car. The young golden-haired man lounging on the seat beside her was not her Alexander. She hoped the disappointment was not apparent in her face. Layla did not wish to be rude or unsociable to a lifelong friend. “Jeff, what a surprise. What brings you to New York?”

Jeff had always been a dear friend, but since puberty he had become flirtatious, often trying to peruse her. His efforts were unyielding and sometimes aggressive. He succeeded once, and she had found it to be awkward between them ever since. She loved him dearly but kissing Jeff felt like kissing Dane.

“Things were dull, so I figured I’d fly up here and chill with my princess.” He smiled sliding across the seat and placing his arm around her shoulder. “I was thinking we’d round everyone up, hit Daytona Beach for spring break, you, me and our best buds. Seven days of fun and sun now that you are done. Like we were talking about a few months back.”

She did need some downtime after all that. She could steal Alexander away for the week. Lounging on a Florida beach, lying in the sand, the warm sun kissing his bronze skin. She felt that old familiar tingle in her very core when she pictured Alexander’s hungry sensual gaze fixed on her through those wild stray locks of ebony hair.

“You know what Jeff, Daytona Beach sounds heavenly. We will head back to my place, and you can make some calls while I freshen up.”

Jeff clapped his hands together revved up for the trip. He looked forward to seeing her in her bikini again. Sipping margaritas and massaging lotion into Layla’s silken shoulders. If things went well, he would make his move and find his way back into her bed. The only man to have ever been with this luscious goddess he had thought of nothing else. His patience would pay off soon.

***

The sweat beaded on his forehead. They had been at it for three hours straight, and the group almost had the routine down. Alexander had been having some trying times with the star of the video. Sidney had petitioned David to have Alexander work her upcoming video, and her negotiation skills were impeccable. She had chosen a fast paced love song with a Latin beat. The vision in Alexander’s mind had been more complicated than his last few, but it would pay off in the end. He had put a new twist on the Rumba and spent two days teaching the basics to the dancers.

Sidney was having the most trouble picking up on the flow, which Alexander found strange given that she came from a similar background. Latin dancing should have been easy for her. David was sure she was acting to get someone on one time in Alexander’s arms. It was ten in the evening, and Alexander was getting frustrated. Fine if Sidney wanted her one on one time she would get it. Anything to speed along the process. Alexander dismissed the others and had the technician cue up the song again. He stripped off his shirt and wiped his damp brow. Tossing the shirt over the back of his chair, Alexander returned to the floor.

“Ok let’s take a different approach to this.” He spoke calmly circling her. His palm is sliding over her belly. “Posture is important. Tummy in, chest out, shoulders back, back straight.” He instructed running his hands up her back and over her shoulders forcing her into the proper starting position. “Now Latin dancing is sensual; it’s in the hips and the fluency.” Alexander stood behind her his hands gliding over her hips and slowly guiding her movements. “One, two, step.” He guided Sidney around the floor keeping time with her steps. She seemed to have the basics. “Now it’s like telling a story. Saying with your body what you are saying in your music. Just feel it. Let it fill you.” He instructed closing his eyes and seeing the beat in his mind. His lesson cut short when he felt her getting too close. Her eyes told him she was interested in more than work. Moving away suddenly Alexander raked his hands through his hair. “Ok, that is enough for tonight. Work on it at home. If you still can’t get it, I’ll revise it to something lower key.”

Sidney moved in to say goodnight offering him a kiss in gratitude for his time, hoping it would buy her something more. Alexander was an amazing lover, and she was rather disappointed he had not wished to pursue their involvement further.

Alexander quickly moved his hand between them and shook hers. Patting her on the shoulder with a smile. He had seen that look in the eyes of every woman at his shows. He knew full well what she was after and was not going to give it to her. She was nice… but not what he wanted.

Sidney shook his hand with a groan and stormed off in a huff. While the crew packed up for the night, Alexander decided to try some revisions. Putting the song on a repeat loop, he went over the steps. Step by step, Alexander tried to find where he could simplify without compromising the overall effect.

***

Layla strolled on to the set greeting the many employees leaving for the night. She did not see her father and assumed it must have been another shoot he had been at. She brought with her a bottle of champagne to celebrate the completion of her first album. She stood beside the cameras watching Alexander on the set. Stripped to his pants, his feet bare on the set floor. His muscular torso gleamed with perspiration. His damp hair hung in sweaty locks framing his handsome features. He flew over the floor like the very embodiment of rhythm and music. Each movement deliberate and perfect. A muse sent by the gods to inspire. It was as though the music channelled through him.

It was like the first time she had seen him; he was so intoxicating, so surreal he took her breath away. Layla found it amazing that he could have cultivated such skill and grace from nothing. She loved watching him it did not even matter that the voice behind his motion was that of her rival. The song ended, and Alexander stopped. His chest rose and fell as he tried to catch his breath. His gaze fell on the smiling redhead loitering by the cameras.

Layla finally moved toward him lifting her bottle of champagne. “I’m done.” She grinned her breathing changing the closer she got to him. “That was incredible. How did you do that?” She asked trying to keep the tremble from her voice.

“It’s like the Rumba. It’s not that hard, even better with the right partner.” He breathed surprised and excited to see her.

“It’s a partner dance?”

“Originally yes. I revised it a little for the video.” He breathed as she came closer. Alexander could smell her sweet perfume; feel the warmth of her body. Layla was so close he could reach out and grab her, pull her into his arms, and take her right there. His better senses still in control Alexander refrained from impulse, but he still had to hold her. Had to feel her in his arms or he’d go mad. “Do you want to dance?”

“I can’t do that.” Layla blushed, feeling inadequate to his skill.

Alexander took the champagne and placed it aside. Closing his fingers around hers, he spun Layla out and then drew her close. His form was precise and professional. “I’ll teach you.” He said so softly and warm she could not reply. Layla melted into his arms as Alexander led her across the floor. His movements easy to follow. He was a superb dancer, a strong leader. Layla almost felt she knew the steps, could anticipate them.

Layla looked down for a moment at her feet and ended up kicking him in the shin. Alexander flinched, and Layla apologized feeling foolish. “It’s ok, look into my eyes. Maintain eye contact. Don’t worry about your feet, don’t look, and don’t even think about them. Just feel it. This dance is one of love, raw animalistic passion. Your eyes… my eyes.” He moved his fingers from her gaze to his. Pulling Layla into his embrace with fire in his eyes and passion in his step. Her heart beat wildly against her chest. “When we’re close it’s a feverish craving, a desperate need.” He dipped her slightly lifting one of her knees to his hip. His fingers slid over her leg. “Like touching each other is our only reason for living.” His lips moved closer to hers, Layla’s eyes drifted closed anticipating the feel of his lips against hers.

Suddenly Alexander spun her away. His next steps keeping her at arm’s length. “And when we’re apart it’s like our very hearts were ripped from our chests.” He snapped his wrist and yanked her back into his arms. Her back against his chest his breath on her ear. Alexander slowly pushed her down his body until her shoulders were level with his hips. “Then I push you away like you have ruined me for all women.” He whispered helping her back to her feet.

Her body slid up his. Layla’s face flushed and she felt the fever coming over her. Her body responded to his closeness. They stood motionless for an endless moment. Layla’s bosom heaving against his chest as she tried to calm her breathing. Her heated gaze held his intensely. The sensuous dance mimicked their rocky relationship. Mindless with need Alexander started pulling Layla’s shirt off over her head. Her fingers moved to his zipper. His mouth devoured hers in hot lustful kisses. They tore at each other’s clothes like it were a race to see who could undress first.

Alexander grabbed her thighs and lifted her around his hips, carrying her over to his chair and rested her in the seat. Layla was eager and ready. So slick and welcoming he pushed up her skirt and removed her panties sliding right in. Layla clung to Alexander. Her arms wrapped tight around his shoulders as he trusted in and out of her. His hot mouth crushed against hers. Layla’s tongue swept and probed the depths of his mouth. She could not imagine spending one more moment away from Alexander. She wanted him, wanted to love him, and wanted him to love her in return. Prayed to god that one day he would.

She rocked against Alexander matching his lust. The shudders ripped through her body, her climax taking her. Her muscles clenched around Alexander bringing him to a peak of ecstasy. Their bodies calmed, their breathing slowed returning to normal Alexander kissed Layla lovingly. Smiling, he glanced around remembering where they were. Alexander quickly lowered Layla’s skirt and set himself right in a flash.

Alexander grinned brushing a wayward strand of hair from Layla’s eyes, caressing the side of her cheek with the back of his hand. “It’s so good to see you.” He surveyed the area, observing the lack of security.

“They’re waiting outside.” She chuckled reading his mind. “I know how much they bother you.”

“I appreciate the consideration.” He beamed and braced the arms of the chair. “Come home with me,” Alexander whispered against her lips. “I’ll fix you something to eat; we can tie into that bottle of champagne you brought.”

Layla smiled gazing into his dark eyes. The pads of her fingertips tracing the course stubble lining his jaw. A day or two of growth feeling rough under her delicate hands.

Under her tender caress, Alexander wished he had taken the time to shave that morning. Sweaty and unshaven he must have looked atrocious and unruly. Layla shook her head. “No, I really can’t. I have friends in town; I couldn’t abandon them for the whole night.” She grinned knowingly. “And I don’t think you would want a house full of people tonight.”

Alexander frowned. “No, I wouldn’t.” He griped walking away to gather his things for the night. “So then, I suppose you got what you came for. Enjoy the rest of your evening.” He said as politely as he could. Alexander now understood how women felt when his buddies made booty calls.

Layla snickered at the tall, strong man pouting. “Don’t be like that. I came to see if you wanted to join us for the evening. More specifically I wanted to know if you would take us to the Candy Shop.”

“They want to go to the Candy Shop?” Alexander asked a little surprised. It wasn’t exactly their cup of tea.

“I want to see you compete,” Layla admitted. It had been on her mind since that night she witnessed the sport.

“I don’t compete at the Candy Shop.” He declined, shaking his head.

“Why not?”

“I’m not in the same class as those dancers.”

“I know, you are better.”

“No, I just piggyback off most of their ideas.”

“And they did the same of someone else. Alex please, for me. What could it hurt?” Layla batted her long lashes at him with her persistent ‘I always get my way’ grin.

Alexander felt weak in the knees caving to her whims. His shoulders slumped, and his head dropped back in defeat. “Ok, I’ll take you and your friends to the Candy Shop.”

“And?” She nudged with her silky tone.

“And I’ll compete, but just this once, and you are going to owe me, big little miss.” He grinned wickedly shaking his index finger at her.

“Not a problem, I’ll repay you with a week of bikinis and suntan lotion in the sands of Daytona Beach.”

Alexander stood motionless trying to decide if she were kidding. “Daytona Beach. You and me?”

“And my friends… and a very small… tiny… minuscule… security detail. But you will hardly notice them. It will be fun. We will go water skiing, parasailing, scuba diving, beach volleyball, Frisbee; you know beach stuff. Drinking, bonfires, beach parties. Please, Alex, come with us. We leave in three days. You can wrap this up in three days, and I know you don’t have another video lined up right after… not for a month.” She blushed as she confessed. “I took a look at your schedule.”

Alexander mulled over the proposal, it did sound like fun and the promise of an uninterrupted week with Layla was tempting. However, he had to consider his mother. While she did have a live-in nurse now, and she was starting to look stable again, a week was not that long. Then his mind returned to the continuing thorn in his side.

Money.

There was the plane fare to consider and the accommodations and spending money; he would have to eat. He could not afford a trip like this. “You can help me pick out a new bikini tomorrow. I’m thinking something... string.” She grinned coaxing his answer.

His libido conjuring images of her stretched out on the sand, the sun tanning her creamy skin. All the men on the beach came on to her fighting for her attention. His jealousy got the better of his reason. “Daytona sounds great.”

***

Alexander had gone home quickly to shower and change into his street clothing before heading to the Candy Shop. Layla had gone to pick up her friends with explicit instructions from Alexander to have them dress down. They did not want to stand out more than they had to in that sort of neighbourhood. She picked him up at his house an hour later in a town car with Joshua driving. Alexander eyed the bodyguard dressed in street clothing verse his usual suit and slacks. “I couldn’t leave him behind.” She apologized.

“Well, at least he will blend in.” Alexander supposed that was the best they could hope for. He took a seat beside Layla his arm falling around her shoulder unconsciously staking his claim. She had brought five guests. Three young men and two women he recognized from his first week in her home.

“Alexander you remember Jill and her little sister Kim, Rolland’s girls. This is Kevin and Mitch; their fathers are in Quick Shot with my mom. And of course, you know Jeff.”

Alexander grinned awkwardly; they were all second-generation money at the least. Even Rolland’s girls looked as though they had spent the majority of their young lives in the lap of luxury. They were all wealthy aristocrats and he was a low-class blue-collar ghetto brat.

Alexander shifted in his seat to shake their hands; all seemed friendly enough accept Jeff who was no surprise. His cold stare was like daggers and his scowl that of unmistakable territorial competition. Alexander realized that Jeff had expected him to be discarded by now. Alexander’s embrace of Layla became slightly possessive to reinforce the concept that she had chosen him as her evening companion, not Jeff and that he had no intention of going anywhere.

Alexander explained the way to the Candy Shop then went over the rules and regulations of the establishment. He could not keep them out of brawls if he were going into the ring tonight, so he felt it best to prepare them for the social change. He did not doubt that the security detail would step in if things got out of control but he would rather they did not.

They arrived out front, and the group entered while security followed at a distance and his partner stayed with the car. The party was in full swing, the music blaring out the speakers. The place was packed from wall to wall. Alexander’s body was already moving with the beat as he led them through the crowd, his hand clenched around Layla’s protectively. Once close to the ring in the center of the building Alexander directed everyone’s attention to the battle in progress between six young women.

He left their side momentarily signing up for the next available battle. He returned to wide smiles and gawking gazes. The men in their group drooled over the talent on stage. Alexander danced with Layla while they waited for his round to come. He thought he had heard his name being called but dismissed it when he couldn’t tell where it was coming from. A minute later he felt a hand on his back.

Turning around, he saw Rick. His friends had decided to swing into the Candy Shop that night and assuming he had been working they were surprised to see him there. Rick extended an invitation to them all to join his group at their table for a few drinks. Grateful to see someone he could relate to Alexander accepted for the group.

At their table were the guys from Raw Body and their girlfriends. Sara swayed and bobbed in her seat enjoying the music and her fourth beer. Rick ordered another pitcher for the table and lifted Sara into his lap to make room at the table for the new arrivals. Alexander introduced everyone. Rick shook Layla’s hand with a wink. “Nice to finally meet you with my clothes on.”

Layla blushed remembering him from that first night she’d seen Alexander. “Excuse me!” Jeff snapped appalled by Rick’s reference.

“Down boy, she was dressed. It was one of our shows; we’re exotic dancers.” Rick explained not interested in brawling with her friends. Even if he did win, they had the means to see him in handcuffs.

“That is where I’ve seen you from.” Kim chirped getting dirty looks from her sister and Layla.

“We?” Jeff queried raising a brow.

“Yeah, me, Ashton, Brad, and Alex,” Rick announced, and Alexander dropped his head into his hands.

Layla’s male guests stared in dumbfounded disbelief at Alexander. “Did you know this?” Jeff interrogated Layla.

“Yes.”

“Does your dad know he takes off his clothes for cash?”

“Yes,” Layla said not willing to go into it with him, she did not wish to embarrass Alexander nor did she feel the need to justify her choices to Jeff.

Sensing the hostility between Alexander and Jeff, Rick decided it was time to change the subject. “So, Alex, I thought you were working tonight, what brings you into the Candy Shop?”

“I’m going to compete.” He said reluctantly. Rick had been trying to get Alexander to compete forever.

“You are so going to take home the pot.” Rick cheered followed by the rest of his friends’ raving confidence. “I’ve been telling you forever to get your ass up there. About bloody time.”

Jeff scoffed. “Please anyone could dance around up there.” He huffed guzzling his beer.

“It’s harder than it looks.” Ashton protested coming to Alexander’s defence.

“Whatever.” Jeff scoffed rolling his eyes. “How hard could shaking your ass be?”

“Why don’t you drag your sorry ass up there and give it a shot.” Challenged Sara waving her half-empty glass at him. “The object of the battle is to be better than the competitor and move on to the next round, not get booed off stage, Romeo. You got to make it up on the fly.”

“I can do that in my sleep.”

Sara slipped off her lover’s lap and rounded the table glaring Jeff in the eye. The tiny woman challenged him, calling him out. “I bet you that twelve-year-old boy on stage has got more rhythm than you do. You will choke on the first round.”

Jeff looked to the stage at the kid battling it out with a man twice his age. “They let minors in here?” He was shocked. “Isn’t that a felony?”

“I never claimed this establishment was lawful.” Alexander grinned. “Besides everybody comes here for the dance mostly. The booze is monitored.”

The next battle was called, and Alexander’s name came over the speakers. It was his turn at bat. Taking a calming breath, Alexander kissed Layla and made his way to the stage. His friends shifted for better views. Some standing, others kneeling on the seats. Some of the ladies on the shoulders of their boyfriends and everyone cheering like his cheerleaders.

Jeff could not believe the fuss they all made for such a first-class loser. Alexander was not all that. Even Jeff’s friends stood eagerly by waiting to see the amazing show the others were promising. Layla stood on her tiptoes straining her neck to see over the crowd. She was short it was difficult to get a good view of the stage. Brad and Kevin lifted Layla onto the table giving her an unobstructed view and receiving a thankful smile.

The MC introduced Alexander and his competitor. He lay down the times they would be given and how many rotations they were allowed during this round. The music began, and his competitor went first. A black man about Alexander’s age, his rhythm flawless. His skill was impressive; Alexander would have to be creative to top him. The rotation turned to Alexander who picked up without missing a beat. The ladies in Rick’s group screamed for him as he took over the stage. Their rowdy behaviour was infectious to the surrounding people. Soon Alexander had become the crowd favourite, and with the audience screaming he took the lead.

Jeff looked up at Layla jumping around on the table top snapping her fingers and clapping her hands. Her eyes locked on Alexander like a groupie at one of their fathers’ concerts twenty years ago. A frustrated growl rumbled low in his throat; he did not like this man. Alexander put a serious cramp in Jeff’s plans. Alexander had to go.

The floor yielded back and forth two more times. The crowd getting louder with each change as the dancing and skills became more complicated and impressive. His competitor introduced an aerial move to his routine leaving Alexander hard pressed to top it. He remembered a move he had seen five years ago in the alley behind his house when a group of teens were break dancing. He thought it over and decided he could not pull it off. He snatched the hat off his opponent’s head and tossed it up having it land on his head.

Layla screamed louder; she remembered this move from his private show. It was impressive. Dancing around the ring, he would step up on the ropes and play to the crowd then drop off and spin, tip, and rotate his hat. At the end of his routine, he rolled the hat from one arm over his shoulders and down the other. Flicking his wrist, so the hat flew back onto his head. His fingers gripped the brim and lifting the hat he tossed it onto his opponent’s head.

The round was over, and Alexander was clearly the winner. He moved on to the next round. The opponent and Alexander shook hands offering congratulations and condolences. Alexander returned to the table with a grin and held his hands out to help Layla down. She slid right into his arms staring at him like a love-struck teenager, and it made Jeff sick. Congratulations came from all around. Most of Layla’s friends utterly taken with her new beau. “That was fantastic,” Kevin shouted.

“Thanks, but I don’t know how I’m going to fair against the next guy. I used some of my best moves up already. I don’t have a clue how to beat the next competitor.” Alexander panted trying to catch his breath feeling alive, the adrenalin coursing through him like a drug.

Layla kissed his cheek supportively. “You will mop the floor with the next one, and the next one after that. You are going to win that pot baby because you are just that good.” She said without a shred of doubt in her voice. His buddies cheered in agreement.

And he did, he won the contest.

That night he took home enough money to pay for his trip and the woman of his dreams. They dropped off her friends at the house and gave instructions for Gregory to drive them back to Alexander’s. Pumped with adrenaline and liquor Layla instantly pressed the button to roll up the dark partition isolating them from the security team. She had pounced on Alexander before the privacy was complete and they could not keep their hands off each other for the duration of the ride… up the sidewalk… through the door. Tearing off their shoes and coats at the door. Stumbling down the hall, falling against the walls. Layla giggled reaching up to stop a picture from swinging after they knocked it off balance. Alexander scooped Layla into his arms and carried her the rest of the way to his room. Threw her down on the small bed and had his way with her.

He was going to make love to her forever if he could.