Sweet Treats and Deadbeats

CHAPTER 17: Finding Home

Sophie

Being kidn*pped sucked. I knew I shoulda kept on my safety whistle, but Winnie and Poppy didn’t have to wear one. I just wanted to feel like a big girl. Mommy was right, and I messed up.

What if they never find me?

It was a little cold, so I curled up into a ball. The van they shoved me in was dark. I couldn’t see anything. The woman who took me from the store had put something stinky on my face that made me fall asleep.

Soon the car stopped and someone pulled me outside. We were at a trailer with a boat in front. I didn’t see any other people close to us. The light let me see that the person who pulled me out was the girl from the store. She had blonde hair and was short like mommy.

“I told Xander this was a bad idea. I don’t even know if this kid is mine.” I knew that voice anywhere. It was Tom.

“You’re such an i***t! Look at her, she looks like you. Xander will be here any minute. You owe him, so you better get your s**t together,” the woman replied, tugging me along.

I kept my head down because Tom still scared me. He and the lady kept fighting while they led me down some stairs. I cried a little bit and wished Dex was here to help me. Then I promised God that next time I’d be a good girl and wear my whistle.

The basement was dirty. It had boxes everywhere and there were no windows. There was a little blue couch and television set up in the corner. All the dust made me sneeze a lot, so the lady gave me some tissue. She also let me go potty in the little bathroom, which only had a sink and toilet.

“If Madison had of just given me the goddamn money, none of this s**t would be happening. She was always a bitch.”

I got mad and finally looked up at the monster from my nightmares. We had the same eyes. He was really tall, too. I hurt my neck. “Don’t you call my mommy names! She is better than you and so is Dex. They are gonna come get me and put you in jail.”

Tom snickered. “You’re just like her. I’m so glad I didn’t waste my time with you brats. Go sit your ass in that chair and be quiet for a change. Erin,” he pointed at the blonde lady, “here will babysit you until the job is done.”

The woman rolled her eyes at Tom and began yelling. “You don’t have to speak to her like that. She is your daughter. Just go back upstairs. I’ll handle Sophie.”

Tom crouched in front of me so that we were eye to eye. He just stared for a long time. “Maybe you are my kid. It still doesn’t change anything. You mean less to me than my motorcycle.”

The things he said used to hurt me but not now. “Declan is our daddy, so I don’t need you! He loves us and mommy. We’re gonna be a real family. You are just a meanie and Aunt T says karma gets meanies. Now go away!”

The lady laughed as Tom stomped up the stairs. I was just glad he was gone. After that, she gave me some blankets and went to get me some food. I was pretty hungry.

When she came back, she had a plate of tomato soup and some grilled cheese sandwiches. I took it and started eating before it cooled off. It was too hot, so I made some faces. The lady laughed and blew on the top.

“I’m sorry about all of this, sweetie. Xander is my man, and…people disrespect him. No one will hurt you. We just need that money, okay?”

I nodded sadly. “I just miss my family, and I want to go home.”

She sat down next to me and put the straw in my juice box. “You must have a happy life. I ran away from home when I was around your age. That’s when the bad men found me…”

I drank some of the apple juice, and then put it aside. “Did your mommy and daddy get you back?”

Erin shook her head. “They didn’t care. The bad men who took me weren’t any worse than my parents. I didn’t have anyone until I met Xander.”

All of a sudden, the door was opened. Tom and another big man with slick black hair came down the stairs. I put my sandwich away and scooted to the corner. The men looked mad.

“Hey, Xander. We did just like you wanted,” Erin said, gesturing to me.

The Xander guy smiled. His smile was not a good thing. “Don’t be scared of me. Why don’t you come here so we can talk a minute?” I didn’t want to go, but Erin was holding her hand out to me.

“That wasn’t so bad, was it?” Xander asked, getting down on his knees. He smelled like hair gel.

“Who…who are you?”

He put his hand over his heart and looked up at the others. “I’m wounded. You mean my Ashley never talks about me to her new fancy friends. Me and her had some real good times. Real good times. That baby she’s carrying in her belly is my son.”

I flinched. “You’re the bad man that hurt Miss Ashley!”

He stood up. “No f*****g no! I didn’t hurt her at all. She thought she could leave me. What else was I supposed to do? I had to show her she was mine, always mine. Now she’s out there disrespecting me with that stupid ass doggie doctor. Do you know how that makes me feel? I need this money so I can get her back. We’re gonna go away and raise our kid together.”

Erin interrupted him. “What? You said you wanted the money so you and I could start a new life. You told me you didn’t care about that b***h! We can have our own baby. Please, Xander.”

He started laughing. “Bitches really are stupid. Why would I want a kid with a junkie w***e who f***s anything moving? Know your f*****g place.

“Keep this little brat here and out of my way.”

Erin was crying now. “I can get clean, and I only p********e because you make me. Don’t worry, I’ll take care of the girl.”

Xander walked up to Erin and put some pills in her mouth. She swallowed without water. Then he pulled her hair and kissed her hard on the lips. I looked away. Something bad was happening but I was too small to stop it.

“If you want to keep getting your s**t, you’ll remember to keep your mouth shut. I’ll be out all night with Tom. No one comes in or out of this room except for us. I’ll leave some Kicker upstairs for you. Don’t f*****g overdose,” Xander commanded, walking away.

Tom took one last look at me. “I didn’t want to get you into this. Remember that it’s all your mom’s fault. When we get our money you can go home, okay? Goodnight.”

After they left, I finished eating. Then Erin turned on the TV for me. Her eyes looked weird, and she was walking slower. I asked her if she was okay, and she just looked at me. The medicine Xander gave her was not good.

“I’ll be upstairs, sweetheart. Come to the door and yell if you need me.” Erin’s voice was hard to understand.

I laid down and tried to watch some cartoons. Nothing was funny because I was worried about everything. I just wanted to be in my own bed. I didn’t even care if mommy grounded me. “I miss you, mommy,” I sobbed before falling asleep.

Someone shaking my shoulder woke me. I sat up, realizing it was Erin. She had changed into some jeans and a black hoodie. Her face looked swollen, like mommy’s did after she’d been crying.

“He’s going to kill me, but I don’t care. I have to get out of this life. Maybe prison is what I need to get clean. I have dreams. I want a little girl like you and a real family. He’s never going to love me like I love him. Come on, I’m getting you out of here,” Erin promised, handing me a brown jacket.

I stood up and put it on. It was too big but very warm. “Thank you.”

She smiled and put a black hat on my head. “I shouldn’t have helped him in the first place. There’s no car here; so we’re going to have to travel through the woods, find a main road, and wait. This place is too hard to find.”

“What if we get lost?” I asked, bending down to tie my shoes.

She pulled out a cell phone. “Reception sucks, but I called a cop. He knows your Declan. They’re going to come get us.”

Hearing Dex’s name made me smile. “I knew he’d come for me. Let’s go!”

Erin buttoned up my coat and gave me some gloves. “The woods are dark and cold at night. I’ve had to sleep out there before. No matter what, keep ahold of my hand. There are always bad men in the woods. If someone gets me, I want you to scream and run away.

“Here,” she said, putting the phone and a small flashlight in my pocket.

Before we left, we stopped in the kitchen so Erin could put some crackers and water in her backpack. When she took the pills again I asked what they were, but she said it was just something she needed.

The woods were scary. We walked for a long time. There was a little light from the moon, and Erin used her flashlight when we got to the really dark spots. My feet hurt, but I was excited about going home again.

Suddenly, there was a noise. I squeezed Erin’s hand while she tried to push me behind her. “Who’s there?” she whispered, pointing the flashlight.

A big man ran towards us. I screamed as Erin kicked out at him. They fell down and started rolling on the ground. I wanted to stay and help, but I remembered what Erin told me. I just ran and ran until I tripped over a branch.

“Oh no,” I mumbled, looking at my ankle.

There were some sounds and a different man began walking over to me. He had a knife! I tried to get up but I couldn’t walk. I pulled out the phone and dialed 911. “Help,” I screamed.

The big man pulled me up and threw the phone away. “The hunters always get the deer,” he said. I closed my eyes.

“Why don’t you try picking on someone your own size, asshole!” Dex was here!

I watched as the man dropped me and lunged for him. Dex kicked him in the stomach. Then, the big man took out his knife. I screamed, but Dex knocked that out of his hand too. A few seconds later, Dex was on top of the guy. I heard Dex hit him with something before everything went quiet.

“Are you okay, princess?” Declan asked, running towards me.

I sobbed as he knelt down and picked me up. “I knew you’d save me, Dex. I was so scared. Dex

“Where is Erin? She helped me get out.”

Declan kissed my forehead and cradled me in his arms. “Erin will be fine. You’re safe now, princess. Daddy has got you and no one will ever hurt you again.”

I wrapped my arms around his neck. “Daddy.” I liked the sound of that.

Declan

The last twenty-two hours had been the worst of my life. Madison had to be put on bed rest because she’d made herself sick with worry. Poor Noah refused to talk or eat until his sister came home. The other kids were equally as traumatized.

I’d gotten a call from Vlad and a cop buddy of his that were watching Xander and Tom in Seattle. They came quickly, and we hatched a plan to get Sophie back. Some of the men in Xander’s organization weren’t loyal and were glad to rat him out.

We knew where the area where they were holding Sophie but it was well hidden. Vlad’s cop friend, Riley, picked Tom up early. They had a man undercover who had gotten them enough information about the planned bank robbery so that they could make arrests. Tom had told us everything.

Laurie and the others stayed with Madison and the kids, so that Dean, Ross, and I could go with the cops. He wanted justice almost as much as me. Detective Bayer made us promise that we’d stay back, but I think he knew we weren’t listening.

Around eight, Riley received a call from this woman named Erin. She was Xander’s main girl, and the woman who had taken Sophie from the store. Detective Bayer had been working her for months, offering her a chance to testify and leave Xander. On the phone, she told him that she finally wanted to do right and would let Sophie go. We agreed to meet them at the main road.

When we got to the location Dean, Ross, and I went with the rest of the team into the woods. My blood curdled when I heard a woman scream. Dean ran towards the two fighting figures and subdued the man with the help of a few cops.

I motioned for Riley to follow me. Pretty soon, we came upon a dark figure. In the distance, I saw my sweet angel holding her ankles. Her jacket almost made her blend into the trees. She was hurt.

Without any thought to my own safety, I ran and began pummeling the bastard. He was no match for my rage. The asshole had dared to try to hurt my little girl. I wanted to rip him limb from limb. That’s just what I was doing when I heard my angel whimper.

Scowling, I crawled off the loser and headed to her. I vaguely heard Riley read the man his rights and snap on the cuffs. My daughter was safe in my arms, and I’d never let anyone hurt her again.

As we followed the Detective out of the woods, I pulled my phone out of pocket. “I’ve got her, Madison. She’s safe.”

Since nothing exciting ever happened in Port Townsend, Sophie’s k********g and rescue was big news. It even made the national media. I was hailed as being a hero. Riley and his team were told that they’d be promoted for taking down Xander’s crime ring and stopping the bank robbery.

As a gift from the department, Riley looked the other way as Dean got a minute alone with Xander. I got mine alone with Tom. Let’s just say they were walking funny and hurting when it was over. I told that bastard everything that I wanted to say, and I thanked him for being an asshole so that Madison and the kids could be my family now.

After that, we pretty much stayed locked up inside my house. Madison spoke the school and got the kids’ lessons sent home. Our good friends came to visit and brought tons of food, but my sweetheart never stopped baking. It was one of her ways to cope.

Every night we slept together in bed with the kids. Madison didn’t want them out of her sight and neither did I. During the day we did scrapbooking, art, and played games. At night we watched movies and ate comfort food. I think it was what we all needed after the trauma.

“I can’t stop checking to make sure she’s okay,” Madison sobbed, stroking Sophie’s hair. “I inspected every inch of her body in the bathtub. I just had to make sure, even though she talked to the therapist. If he had hurt her…”

“Shhh,” I whispered, kissing her forehead. “We’ve got her now.”

Madison nodded and used the Kleenex I offered to wipe her eyes. “I’m a bad mother. I should have been on high alert after the last attempt. I never thought he’d try again or that she wouldn’t be wearing her safety whistle. How can I bring another baby into this world when I can’t take care of the ones I have?”

I leaned down and laid a gentle kiss on her belly. “You’re going to be a fantastic mother. Stop putting yourself down, sweetheart. We all make mistakes; even cop’s kids have been taken in broad daylight. You know the cases. At least ours has a happy ending.”

She put her little fingers in my hair and rubbed. “I love you, Declan. When you came through the door with my baby in your arms… I felt like my heart would burst. I know you’ll take care of us.”

Smiling, I removed her hand, kissing the knuckles. “I think we should go to Los Angeles. The kids could use some fun in the sun and so could we. Daniels and the Governor are ready to hold the press conference declaring my innocence. It’s time I stopped putting it off. Once that’s over, we really can begin our new life together.”

My sweetheart nodded. “Just don’t expect me to do crazy things like tan or wear a string bikini.”

A day later, we arrived in Los Angeles. The state of California had even sent a private jet to fly us there. It broke my heart that I didn’t manage to make Madison a full-fledged member of the Mile High Club during the flight.

Maybe on the return.

There was a white Hummer and chauffer waiting for us when we got off the plane. I carried Madison down the stairs while Laurie held on to Noah and Sophie’s hands. Laurie had agreed to come along with us to help watch the kids, but I knew that she’d be missing Ryan. Thankfully, I didn’t plan to stay that long.

On the way to my mansion in Pacific Palisades, I pointed out landmarks to the kids. They really wanted to go to Disneyland. I already had some things planned on that front that would make up for all the bad birthdays they’d had from that loser Tom.

Wow, this is amazing,” Madison murmured as we pulled up to the house.

“I used to live in the Hollywood Hills, but I sold that house after Sarah passed. This place is more secluded. I needed that when the media was all over me after I got released,” I explained.

Noah and Sophie were out of the car before it was even in park. Madison rolled her eyes before climbing out to run after them. I watched happily as they walked inside. This was the first time I would be merging my old world with the new one.

After helping the driver bring in our bags, I introduced everyone to my butler. Mr. Braun had served me well for years and always made sure the house was ready when I came to visit. He was a tall older man with a wide mustache and a quiet demeanor.

“It’s good to hear children’s laughter in the house,” he confessed, bending down to give Noah and Sophie a handshake.

“You talk funny,” Noah giggled.

Mr. Braun laughed. “I’m originally from Germany.”

Sophie piped up. “The capital of Germany is Berlin.”

Madison and I held hands as Braun gave the kids a lesson on his home country. She seemed kind of awe of everything. I just kept my hand rested gently over her stomach. It was almost as if I could feel yoga baby here with us.

The master bedroom had a great view of the Pacific. Madison was instantly in love with the large, custom-made round bed. She kicked off her shoes, laid down, and beckoned me over. I felt the usual stirring in my pants. With all the stress, we hadn’t made love in a few days.

Smirking, I crawled on top of her. She moaned, pulling me down for a searing kiss. I raised her tank top and placed my hand on her silky soft skin. Then, I maneuvered us so that my jean-clad leg was between the apex of her thighs. She was so hot and wet that I could feel it through the fabric.

“Ungh, Declan,” she moaned, sucking on my bottom lip.

“f**k,” I whispered.

My sweetheart giggled. “I like when you use that word. I want you to f**k me hard. Right now.”

Unfortunately, we were interrupted by the rest of the house.

“Cooties!” That was Noah and Sophie.

“Mr. Cullen!” That was Braun.

“Yuck. This is gross.” There was Laurie to finish out the chorus.

Sighing I sat up and helped Madison do the same. Braun gave me one last sneer before escorting everyone out of the room. When I looked over at my sweetheart, she had her eyes crossed and her tongue out. I laughed outright, enjoying the silly moment.

“Is he always like that?” Madison asked, standing up.

I nodded. “He’s a little strict, but his food is to die for. Let’s get cleaned up and go down for lunch.”

Luckily, Braun won Madison over with his smoked brisket and mashed potatoes. Apparently, it was just what she and yoga baby were craving. I think the old man had magic powers. He’d always known just what food would make me feel better, too.

Later, we decided to do some swimming. Unlike Port Townsend, Los Angeles was still a humid ninety-degrees at the beginning of December. Laurie and Madison helped the kids get on their swimsuits while I changed into some blue trunks.

I was putting on suntan lotion when there was a knock at the door. It was Laurie. “Madison is in my bathroom and she refuses to come out.”

I groaned. “Take the kids to the pool and we’ll be there in a few minutes.” My sister agreed and walked away.

“Madison, open up, sweetheart,” I pleaded, tapping on the door.

Slowly, the door was opened. My sweetheart looked like she’d been crying. “I’m fat, Declan. Look at my ass,” she sobbed, lifting up the large shirt she was wearing. “Maybe I can get the ‘Free Licks’ changed to ‘Wide Load’.”

I didn’t see anything wrong with her body. She looked hot to me. “Sweetheart, you’re beautiful. I happen to like your ass very much.”

Madison smiled shyly and wrapped her arm around my waist. “Are you a lady lumps man?”

“I’m a fan, but you know I’m a boob guy. Speaking of boobs… What you gon’ do with all that breast? All that breast inside that shirt?” I sang, mimicking the Black Eyed Peas.

Madison replied with, “I’ma make, make, make, make you work…,” and removed her top.

My sweetheart snapped her fingers in front of my face. “Okay, I feel gorgeous again. The way you’re drooling over my rack is a great self-esteem builder. Now stop being a p*****t and get yourself under control. I don’t want to have to explain erections to my babies.”

I kissed her button nose before excusing myself. There was no way in hell I could spend half a day frolicking in the pool unless I rubbed one out. A little lotion, two hands, and ten minutes later; I was good to go.

When I got to the pool, Laurie and Madison were splashing with the kids. Noah and Sophie begged me to get into the pool. We ended up playing practically every water game. By the time we got out, the sun was starting to go down.

“I’m starving,” Madison declared, rubbing her stomach.

“Mommy, I need chicken,” Noah whined.

“Let’s eat fish and corn, too,” Sophie added, not wanting to be left out. Noah also thought that was a good idea.

“I want a nap.” You could always count on my little sister to be cranky after a day of fun.

“You all go take a bath and change clothes I’m going to help Braun set up the grill.”

An hour later, we were sitting on the patio eating our dinner. There was everything from shrimp to prime rib-eye steak. I made sure that my sweetheart’s meat was well done, because neither one of us wanted to take a chance with yoga baby’s health.

“This chicken is good, Dex,” Noah mumbled while stuffing his little face.

Madison clucked and reached over to wipe his face. “I don’t even know how you can taste it with all that barbecue sauce. Try to be less messy, sweetie.”

I was putting more tartar sauce on Sophie’s plate when Braun came to get me. Marc and Demetrius were at the door. I’d asked them to give me a day before coming by, but they never listened. I hoped my sweetheart was ready to see more of my old life.

“Bring them on back,” I whispered to Braun, eyeing Madison warily.

“Look at him. He’s not even wearing that ugly plaid anymore. Our old boy is back,” Marc bellowed, walking over to hug me.

I turned to my family. “This loud dude is my uncle Marc Walsh.”

He waggled his eyebrows as Madison stood up to shake his hand and introduce our kids. She was wearing a coral-colored sundress and cropped jean jacket. The sundress showed off a lot of boob. I almost wished I’d made her wear something more conservative. Then again, when had Madison ever listened to me?

“Now I see why you hardly visit anymore,” Demetrius acknowledged, leaning forward to kiss Madison’s hand.

She seemed to be dazzled by him. “It’s… I’m… I’ve seen a few of your movies. It’s a pleasure to meet you. These are my babies…”

I was insanely jealous so my filter was gone. “Madison is pregnant! It’s mine. I did it. We’re having a yoga baby or two. I got her pregnant.”

Sophie’s eyes widened. “You’re having another baby?”

Noah’s thumb immediately went to his mouth before he climbed out his chair and into Madison’s lap. “Mommy?”

My sweetheart glared evilly, while Marc and Demetrius congratulated us. Braun just mumbled something about ‘learning to be a gentleman’ and set up places for our uninvited guests. I knew I’d pay for this later.

I walked over and crouched between Noah and Sophie. “Madison and I are having a baby. We’re still going to love you both as much as we love it. I also still want to be your dad. Our family is growing, and we’ll need your help with the new baby.”

Sophie hugged and kissed me and Madison. Then, she got permission from her mom to call her little friends and tell them the news. Noah was quiet for a minute before reaching down to feel Madison’s stomach. After that he smiled softly and began talking about being a big brother.

When everyone was settled again, Demetrius called for champagne. “Let’s toast the happy couple. Oh, and Declan, I want another Oscar on my mantle. Tell me you have a new script.”

I smirked. “I do. It’s about a man that gets into a bunch of trouble because he didn’t know how to keep his mouth shut…”

“Okay, Time and Newsweek are going to print. Were there any more magazines you wanted to appear on? What about the feature with GQ? The firm’s phones have been ringing off the hook since that press conference. And I have to say, putting Mr. Daniels on there to talk about his new innocence project was pure genius. Not only are you vindicated for your crimes, but you’re also seen as a compassionate celebrity. You did well, Declan,” Marc praised, patting me on the back.

The last three days had been a whirlwind. The Governor and Chief of Police did a press conference at City Hall declaring me totally absolved from all crimes. My record was wiped clean, and the story about the LAPD corruption was made public.

Sarah’s living family members even came out to apologize for the way they treated me all these years. It seemed like every media outlet in America wanted me to do an interview or make an appearance. I didn’t want any of that, though.

“I appreciate everything you’ve done, Uncle, but what I really want is some time alone with my family. Laurie has been playing tour guide and taking them shopping while we field the press. I like my life the way it is now. At the end of the week, I plan to go back to Port Townsend. I like my privacy and small town living.”

He handed me a bottle of water, nodding pensively. “I understand. I know my brother hasn’t been the best father to you. Speaking of… he and Holly called a million times. They wanted to fly out here but I advised them against it. I’ve been begging Michael to get into rehab for a long time. He’s let the bitterness and anger over your mother’s cheating eat away at him for too long.”

I’d already vowed that I wouldn’t let my parents back into my life unless they both showed signs of change. I didn’t need more stress and neither did Madison and our baby. If they really loved me and Laurie, they’d get the help they needed.

Standing up, I walked to the window and looked out over Sunset Boulevard. Marc’s PR firm had beautiful view. “I remember when I first arrived. I was just a naïve teenage boy who wanted to write movies; then came the women, the parties, the drugs, and the lifestyle.

“For years, I lived a cliché with no real love. Looking back on it, I know I didn’t really love Sarah. She and I just shared the same addictions-drugs and fame. I may not have killed her, but I didn’t help her live either. Los Angeles represents the old me…the me I don’t like anymore. I’ll always visit, but it’ll never be my home again.”

That night, Laurie agreed to watch the kids so I could take Madison out to celebrate in style. I had an intense need to show her off a little. Demetrius and some of my other Hollywood friends would be joining us for a nightcap.

“You look nice, Dex,” Noah said, startling me. I’d been busy inspecting myself in the mirror and didn’t hear him open the door.

“Thanks. I don’t really like these monkey suits, but it’ll impress your mom.”

He giggled. “They are doing girly stuff and won’t let me inside. Braun let me help him make cookies, though. It was fun.”

I hoisted him into my arms and tickled his sides. “Come on, let’s go downstairs and wait for the ladies. Are you excited about Disney World tomorrow?”

His whole face lit up. “I can’t wait, Dex! Mommy says when it’s summer; we can come back with Ambrose and our other friends.” Hearing that Madison was making plans for the future, and that the future involved me, warmed my heart.

“We sure can, and I’ll bet you’ll have a little brother or sister by then. Ashley’s baby will also have arrived. It’s up to you to watch out for them, okay?” I knew giving children a task often made it easier for them to accept change.

“I’m gonna teach them how to get cookies before dinner,” Noah confessed.

I laughed. “It may be a little while before that comes in handy. Babies don’t have teeth.”

Half an hour later, Soph came to get us. It was time for my sweetheart to make her entrance. Judging by how giddy Laurie looked, I was betting that Madison was going to be gorgeous. I just hoped she liked my plans for tonight. They were a little…unconventional.

“I’d like to present Miss Madison Smith,” Laurie announced, standing aside.

If I’d have been chewing gum, I would have swallowed it. Madison was a bombshell wearing a long, navy and black silk gown. Her hair was styled to the side, falling into voluminous curls held together by a silver comb. I practically drooled watching her blood-red lips turn up into a sultry smile.

“Madison,” I murmured, taking her manicured hand. “You look amazing.”

She reached up to straighten my bow. “So do you, Mr. Cullen. I do like your plaid, but it’s nice seeing your Hollywood style.”

I wanted to drive tonight, so I had Braun pull my silver Jaguar XF around to the front of the house. Madison gave me a deep kiss when she saw the car. I’d almost forgotten she had a thing for vehicles.

“Can I drive this sometime?” she asked, looking up at me with those maneater eyes.

I opened the door, ushering her inside. “What’s mine is yours, sweetheart. I would ask that you never go above fifty miles per hour, though.”

After I got in the car, I decided that it was time to go over some things. “Madison, the paparazzi are waiting right outside the gates. We don’t owe them anything so just act like they don’t exist. If they get in your face or you feel frightened, squeeze my hand and we’ll make a quick exit.

“This is our night. I just want you to know that you are the most beautiful and amazing woman I’ve ever met. I’m proud and honored to have you on my arm. Never forget how much I love you.”

“I love you, too, Declan. You make me feel beautiful and worthy,” she whispered, blinking away tears.

We laughed and joked all the way to Beverly Hills. Madison was naughty and kept “accidentally” palming my c**k. By the time we pulled up to Spago, I wanted to cancel dinner and drive to the nearest secluded spot. Our first time had been in a truck, so I knew my sweetheart wasn’t against car s*x.

Down boy.

I was immediately wary with the overeager, young valet and made him promise not to scratch my Jag. Thena a few paparazzi took pictures as we exited the car. They were very curious about Madison, so I kept my arm protectively around her as we walked into the restaurant.

Since most of the clientele of Spago were either rich or famous, they didn’t take pictures. However, there were a lot of visitors to our table and patrons fought over who would be lucky enough to pay for our dinner. I found it amusing that most of these kiss-asses wouldn’t have spoken to me a week ago. The only person I had eyes for was the sweet woman next to me.

“This is so good,” Madison moaned, taking a big bite of the breaded veal.

I cut a sliver of my roasted quail and held it out. “Try this.”

Dinner was decadent. Madison ate to her heart’s delight, and I enjoyed watching her. We shared a dessert, which meant I got one bite. I didn’t remember ever having so much fun at a fancy Los Angeles dinner.

A little later, Demetrius and his entourage showed up. A few women came to the table to ask for his picture and autograph. Because he had the black hair, chiseled jaw, and piercing dark eyes of an old-time Hollywood hunk, women were always drawn to him. I even had to wipe the drool from my Madison’s mouth a few times.

“Should I give you two some time alone?” I asked, jealously watching Madison stare at Demetrius.

She reached up, rubbing the nape of my hairline. “You’re the only one I want. In fact, I think you’re sexier than him. It’s just… he was in this movie I liked when I was younger. I kinda had a crush. It’s just surreal seeing him in person.”

I smiled, nibbling on Madison’s earlobe. “I want you naked and calling out my name. Tell me you’re ready to go. My fingers are aching to caress your…”

She gasped and yelled out, “We’re leaving,” as Demetrius and the rest of our group burst into a fit of laughter.

“Why are we taking the long way,” my angel whined, crossing her legs.

I leaned over to give her a quick peck, keeping my eyes on the road. “We’re not going home tonight. I’m taking you somewhere special. Don’t worry, Laurie and Braun were in on it. They’ll watch the kids.”

A few minutes later, we arrived at the beach. Madison looked worried. “Declan, this gown cost too much to ruin. I had a major argument with Laurie for even putting it on your credit card. I insist on paying you back. “

I ran around to the other side of the car to open her door. “I don’t care about the money, and you’re not paying me back. We have an overnight bag in the back. My sister packed you some jeans and hoodie. Let’s strip.” Luckily it was still warm outside.

Giggling, we both changed into our casual clothes. I got distracted when I saw that Madison was wearing a midnight blue lace strapless bra and matching panty set. Her breasts and ass looked so damn juicy and inviting.

“Come on, it’s only a ten minute hike to our spot,” I goaded, wrapping my arm around her shoulders.

She groaned and elbowed me. “The end of this walk better include sweaty s*x, or you’re in deep s**t. Lead the way.”

Moments later, we were there. My sweetheart squealed, jumping into my arms. “It’s beautiful, Declan! I’ve always wanted to camp out in one of these fancy tents. Oh my god, look at the Ocean and the Mountains. This is perfect.”

There was a fresh bottle of chilled apple cider and a dozen red velvet cupcakes set up on the table at the entrance. I poured us both a glass and handed Madison a saucer with the dessert. She complimented the baker and expressed interest in getting the recipe.

After we finished, I led Madison inside the tent. She looked around curiously as I pointed out the separate bathroom area. It included a shower, toilet, and sink. I’d had it stocked with everything we’d need tonight. I also had a bodyguard out in the area, just in case.

“Madison, I need you,” I begged, pulling her into my arms. She melted into me.

“Grab a blanket. I want the first time to be under the stars.”

I spread out a quilt next to the tent. Madison slowly began taking off her jacket and jeans. I practically ripped off my clothes, laid on the ground, and waited for her to join me. She looked resplendent in the moonlight.

“Come here,” I demanded.

Madison got down on the blanket and let me drag her into my arms. Then, I licked her sweet collarbones while palming her breasts through the lace. She whimpered, clinging to me as if I were her savior.

“You’re so beautiful,” I murmured, exposing the milk-white swells to my hungry mouth. Greedily, I suckled her until she began screaming and pulling my hair.

“Please touch me. I’m on fire. Please,” she cried out wantonly.

I reached down and removed the little underwear. Madison’s wetness was already seeping through, and she eagerly rode my fingers the minute they entered her warm flesh. I trembled and throbbed as she played with my d**k while I fingered her. Before long, we both came apart.

“Wow. That was… Let’s just lay here while we recover.”

My sweetheart nodded, kissing my neck. “I forgot you were old.”

“Old,” I yelled, climbing on top of her, “I’ll show you old.”

With a couple of strokes, my member was ready. I kissed Madison hard, pressing her down into the blanket, and used my hand to guide myself into her. She screamed, scratching her nails down my back before moving them down to cup my ass.

“Oh, f**k, Declan. Harder. Ungh!”

I used the pad of thumb to stimulate her c**t as I rammed inside of her p***y. Somehow, my mouth ended up suckling her n*****s. From this angle, I could watch her boobs bounce as I pounded away. My d**k was working overtime.

“I…love…you,” I screamed, biting down on her pulse point.

Madison whispered, “I’m yours,” and milked me until I damn near passed out.

When we were able to function, I carried my sweetheart into the tent and threw her face down onto the bed. She laughed and wiggled her ass invitingly as I crawled in next to her. I didn’t think I could recover so fast, but my angel had a way of making the impossible possible.

“If you can f**k me without moving me from this exact spot, then go ahead,” she offered, looking back at me.

I smacked her ass, watching happily as it jiggled. “You shouldn’t temp this old man so. I might break a hip or something.”

Carefully, I raised her lower body enough so I could get inside. She cried out, pushing her lower body towards me as I set the rhythm. This time I wanted to take it slow and make it last. We had all night to enjoy one another, and that’s just what we did.

Hours later, Madison woke me up with a spectacular blow job. I gathered her hair, using it as a reign to guide her. She licked my balls and squeezed my d**k hard. Then she hummed as I hit the back of her throat, which made her gag.

“Do you like how I suck you c**k? Come for me. I want to feel you gush into my mouth,” she begged, licking my sensitive tip.

That was all it took. “f**k,” I screamed, squirting. Some of my spunk missed her mouth and landed on her breasts. Smiling, she licked it up. It was one of the hottest things I’d ever seen.

Eventually, we cleaned up and ate more cupcakes. Madison told me how happy she was that Tom was going away for a long time. He’d agreed to give up custody, so I’d be able to adopt Noah and Sophie as my own kids.

“I’m still sorry about reading your journal,” Madison said apologetically.

I leaned over and kissed her rosy red cheeks. “Don’t be. I have no secrets from you. You know I scrapbook, right? Well, you’ve inspired something I like to call ‘dirty scrapbooking’.”

“What’s that?”

I reached into the nightstand and removed the book. There was a picture of Madison with the words: love, dream, and sexy in blocks on the front. It was just something I did in my spare time, not that I had much of that lately.

“Wow,” Madison whispered, looking at the pages. “They’re all of me. I’m naked in a lot of these. Oh, you even have the ribbons from Thanksgiving.”

I pulled her into my lap, enjoying the way her curves felt against my hardness. Thankfully, my d**k seemed satiated for the moment. I wasn’t sure I had anymore spunk left in my body.

“I took some of them when you were sleeping. You’re so beautiful, and I can’t paint so this is my way of immortalizing you. There’s also a s*x scene in my next Blood Pact book which was inspired by one of our trysts,” I admitted smugly.

She giggled and turned the page. When she got to the last one, she looked up at me. It consisted of the words: ‘The Day She Agreed to Marry me’, and a place to put her picture. At the bottom was a drawing of a box with a opulent, platinum, canary-yellow diamond ring taped to the page.

I hopped off the bed and got down on my knees. “Madison Smith, I was dead until you found me and gave me your light. You loved me when I was unlovable. I want you, Noah, Sophie, and our unborn children to be by my side forever.”

She began sobbing as I placed the ring on her finger. “Declan, I never thought…again. It’s beautiful.”

“Sweetheart, will you do me the extraordinary honor of becoming my wife? Please say you’ll marry me.”