Sweet Treats and Deadbeats

CHAPTER 5: Lead Me Not Into Temptation

Madison

“Wake up sleeping beauty,” Declan’s velvety voice purred in my ear.

I jumped out of bed. I’d been asleep and didn’t hear him come into the room.

“Declan Walsh, what the f**k?! Why are you in my bed? The alarm hasn’t even gone off yet,” I yelled, rubbing my eyes.

He was laying flat on his back with his arms behind his neck. His hard planed chest was smooth and bare and his clear green eyes glowed. There was a glimmer of light outside that gave his body an otherworldly look. He had a little stubble which had formed on his jaw overnight. He was f*****g sexy, even at five in the morning.

“Good morning to you, too, sweetheart. I’m sorry, but I couldn’t sleep. I’ve been here for an hour. Don’t worry. I rode my bike over and hid it so no one will know. We’re all good.”

I sat on the corner of the bed and glared at him. I was only wearing a ratty Phoenix Suns t-shirt and underwear. My hair probably looked like a disaster area. I’d planned to make myself look presentable before he came, but as usual he had f****d up my plans. He’d been doing it since the night we met.

“Next time, text or something if you want to come early. I look horrible and you look…”

He put his hand over my mouth and pushed me back onto the bed. All protest and thought left my mind when his lips made contact with mine. I buried my hands in his hair and licked his top lip. He moved one of his big hands under my shirt and gently squeezed my breasts.

“Hmmm, I missed these,” he cooed before pinching my n****e.

I arched against him and gave him my tongue. Declan’s mouth was hot and delicious. Kissing him was like eating the best dessert ever and not having to worry about the calories. I whimpered into his mouth as he continued to stroke my breasts.

“I’m beginning to think you only want me for my body, Declan,” I teased.

He stopped and looked deep into my eyes. “That’s not true at all. You’re my friend, Madison. Even if you didn’t want to have s*x with me anymore, I’d still be here for you.”

I clamped my legs around his waist and rolled us until I was on top. Declan’s hand never left my tit. His eyes were halfway closed, and he was smiling softly. I kissed his forehead, his cheeks, and his nose before taking his tongue again.

He shifted and moved his other hand to my ass. I began grinding my p***y into his rock hard erection. He was wearing sweatpants. I slowly peeled the waistband down, moaning with every glorious inch that was revealed.

“You’re so bad, Declan. Where are your underwear?” I asked, noticing that he’d gone commando.

He smiled. “I wanted to make it easier for you. I brought a change of clothes, though, for later.”

After a few tugs from me, his giant c**k was exposed. It was all smooth marble with a pulsing pink head. He was already leaking. I bent down and licked the drop of fluid from the head. He pulled my hair and thrust his hips, making his c**k hit the back of my throat. I gagged.

“I’m so sorry, Madison. I didn’t mean to… I got carried away.”

I looked him in the eye and took him down my throat again. Blowing Declan Walsh was a lot of work but it was so worth it in the end. The taut skin throbbed in my mouth. He tasted like man and something very elegant. I fisted his shaft as I nibbled on his balls.

“You like this, don’t you, Declan? Tell me how much,” I commanded.

He gently pushed my head back down on his c**k. “Ugh, oh god, yes! I love it, Madison. Ugh, f**k!”

I leaned back and put Declan’s d**k between my boobs, squeezing them together to create a tunnel. He opened his eyes and groaned. I worked slowly, moving my breasts up and down his massive erection. He continued to stare at me as I pleasured him. The hungry look in his eyes made me wet.

“You like having your big c**k in my t**s, don’t you, Declan? I want you to show me how much you like it. Come for me, baby. Let mama have all your sweet spunk.”

He made an indefinable noise a minute before hot jizz spurted all over my breasts. I dipped my finger in the small puddle and licked it. Declan’s eyes widened and he pulled me back to his chest. His heart felt like it was beating out of his chest. Both of our bodies were sweat soaked and covered in his c*m.

We just kind of laid on each other for a few minutes. I was as horny as a gerbil, but Declan was still catatonic. I poked him in the ribs to make sure he was still alive. All I got for my efforts was a weak grunt.

“Declan, you better not fall asleep! I need you to get me off.”

He rolled over on his side. “Give me a minute, sweetheart. That was… It took a lot out of me. I’m thirty-four, not twenty. I need a little recovery time.”

“Well, the convenience store owner, Ted Cole, seemed interested in me. He’s around my age. Maybe I should make him your understudy. He could f**k me when you can’t perform,” I said teasingly.

I didn’t anticipate his reaction. He turned over and grabbed my wrist. I’d never seen this side of him. His eyes were dark, almost moss green, and his teeth were exposed. He looked scary. I tried to pull away, but he tightened his grip.

“Promise me, Madison. Promise me that while we’re f*****g, you won’t be with anyone else. I’ll do the same for you. This…us… what we have is special. I don’t want to share you or it with anyone else. Okay?”

I frowned. “Of course, Declan. If I start a s****l relationship with another man, you’ll be the first to know. If that day ever comes for either one of us we break off our arrangement, no questions asked.”

“Madison, do you really want to f**k Ted? He’s not good enough for you.”

I laughed. “How would you know? I’m a single mother with two kids, a deadbeat ex, a million and one problems, and no family. I’d be lucky if any man was interested in me outside of sex.”

Declan let go of my wrist and caressed my cheek. “I’m interested in you for a hell of a lot more than s*x. You have a lot to offer, Madison. Don’t sell yourself short again.”

I pushed him away. “You don’t know a thing about me, Declan. We’re friends and we f**k, but there’s a lot about my past you aren’t privy to.”

“You’re right. While we’re waiting for my c**k to rise again, let’s play twenty questions.”

I blanched. “Um, that’s okay. That game always ends in disaster.”

He f*****g ignored me. “Question number one, what’s your favorite color?”

I scowled before mumbling, “Blue.”

He smiled. “Mine is green. Your turn.”

“I wasn’t really into it so I just came up with a lame bullshit question.”What’s your favorite sport?"

He scratched his jaw. “Hmmm, I’d say it was tie between football and baseball, and you?”

“I don’t like sports,” I answered truthfully.

He looked surprised. “Interesting. Um, when did you lose your virginity?”

“Whoa, what the f**k, Declan? We went from sports to that. I’d rather not bore you with that particular story.”

He pouted, reminding me of Noah when he didn’t get his way. “Why not? I’ll go first. I was seventeen. It was at a young Hollywood party. The girl was Christel Nicole, the Swedish lingerie model. We were both high as a kite. She even posed during the act. From the little that I remember, it was awful.”

It figures that his first time was with a gorgeous model. How did he even look at me after f*****g women like that? Maybe he was slumming it because he thought he didn’t deserve better after what happened to his wife. I suddenly felt very inadequate.

I turned away from him and wrapped my arms around my pillow. If I was going to confess, I couldn’t look at him. My first time wasn’t exactly picture perfect or even legal. I felt his hand stroke my back. I sighed and closed my eyes.

“I was thirteen. My mom has always been the type of woman who needs a man in her life. That year, she took up with some lowlife and he moved into our house. He hated me from the get go. He’d make fun of me. My mom would just laugh and say he was a joker, but the stuff he said was really cruel. I…I got made fun of a lot or ignored at school because I was always the new kid. My mom never stayed in one place for long.”

I stopped to wipe a stray tear that fell from my eye. The only other person that I’d ever told this story to was Tina, and that was different.

Declan placed his palm over my stomach and kissed my bare shoulder. Once again he was showing me tenderness. I both loved and hated him for it.

“To avoid going home, I started hanging out in a nearby park. I’d developed early so I looked older than I really was. A popular junior in high school took notice of my, um, assets. He’d talk to me or push me on the swing. My mom never gave me money or let me have snacks, so he’d buy stuff or give me cash. It felt good someone cared about me. One night, mom’s boyfriend was particularly rude. He… he said I was ‘the ugliest little b***h he’d ever seen’. My mom basically agreed, telling him that she was always trying to make me diet but that I kept falling off the wagon.”

I stopped to retrieve the tissue Declan was holding out for me. “Go on, sweetheart. Sometimes it helps to let it out. The pain can’t hurt you if you take control.”

“Later that night, I snuck out to the park. The boy had borrowed his dad’s car. He took me to a high school party and introduced me to a few of his friends. One of the guys gave me a beer. I’d never drank before, so I got pretty wasted.

“Long story short, the guy took me upstairs and f****d me. It hurt really badly, and I bled for two days. After that, he never talked to me again. I would go up to him in the park and try to make conversation, but he and his friends would just laugh and ignore me. A little while later, mom’s lowlife dumped her and we moved again.”

Declan’s hand had tightened into a fist. “That little bastard! He took advantage of you, Madison. I’m sorry that your first time was so horrible, and that f*****g asshole who said that s**t to you was a liar.”

The conversation was getting way too deep for me. I wiped my eyes and faced Declan. “Well, it’s over now. I’m a big girl. Don’t worry about teenage Madison. She learned her lesson a long time ago. Now, it’s my turn.

“What’s your favorite s****l position?”

He climbed on top of me and pulled my shirt off. “Why don’t I show you?”

I squirmed out of his arms. “Fine, but not here. I still have the rule about beds. Let’s go to the bathroom. Can we, um, do the position in the shower?”

He tickled me. “I hate this no bed rule. Are you ever going to tell me the real reason you don’t want to have s*x in a bed?”

I shook my head.

“Yeah, I thought as much. Sure, the position can be done in the shower. Let me grab my body wash.”

I drooled as I watched his tight ass flex and constrict as he bent over to get his bag. Declan had a very nice ass. He turned around and caught me staring at him. I looked away. He gyrated his hips a little, mimicking s*x. I almost fainted.

“Um, yeah, um, let’s hurry. The kids will be up in about an hour and I still have to make breakfast,” I said, walking into the bathroom.

When I got there, I peeled off my underwear and adjusted the shower temperature. My new bathroom was cozy with plush carpets, a jacuzzi bath, and a separated glassed-in shower. Obviously, my great- aunt had had good taste. I was planning to change the colors to suit me, though.

I let my hair down and stepped under the spray. The massaging showerhead worked out all the kinks in my muscles. I was so relaxed that I almost forgot about Declan.

He opened the door and climbed in. His firm hands gripped my ass, pulling me flush against his erection. My juices dripped onto my thighs. I pathetically rubbed myself against him while he laughed. I was trying to get him where I needed him the most.

“Turn around, Madison. I want to show you my favorite position. You must do exactly as I say, got it?”

I moaned. “Whatever! Just f**k me already!”

“I’m going to turn the water off for a minute. Thank god you have a shower mat or this wouldn’t work. Um, get down on your hands and knees.”

I did what he said. He bent down to position my body correctly. He told me to arch my back and press down on the floor. Surprisingly, the movement made my pelvis feel better."

“Okay, now roll your stomach muscles toward your back. Inhale and exhale as you do this. Curl your head and gaze between your knees. I must say that the view there is quite good.” I could hear the laughter in his voice.

“Fuckface,” I mumbled.

He kissed my shoulder. “This position is called the dog tilt in yoga. It helps with circulation and lower back pain. Curve your spine as you relax your buttocks. It should be feeling good right about now, and you look f*****g sexy.”

It did feel good. I continued tilting and arching my pelvis and lower back. Declan’s breathing picked up until he was all out panting. I was exhaling as he knelt behind me. He caressed my ass right over…

Fuck! I forgot about that.

“Madison, you never told me you had a tattoo! It’s cool, but I don’t get it. Pom?”

I huffed. “It was a f*****g mistake. My ex-husband is named Tom. One night, I got drunk and went out with a group of coworkers. I thought I asked the tattoo guy for ‘Tom’, but my voice was slurred and he interpreted it as ‘Pom’. He added the pink tongue to give it ‘flare’. I’m so embarrassed.”Pom

Declan shocked me by patting both of my ass cheeks. “Why? This is better than having your ex’s name on your body. Besides, I like it. It turns me on.”

“What doesn’t turn you on?” I grumbled.

He laughed and guided his d**k to my entrance. I continued to do the dog tilt. It was hard to believe I was having s*x on a shower floor, but I was too aroused to care. The moment Declan’s d**k began to slide into me, I almost came.

“Oh, yes, Declan. More. I want it hard,” I moaned.

He stroked my breasts and belly before pinching my c**t. The urge to scream was strong. I had to bite down on my lip to keep it in.

Eventually, Declan managed to get all of his meat inside of me. I felt his throbbing d**k from the top of my head to the bottom of my feet. He filled me up that completely.

“Slowly, sweetheart. I want to last,” he grunted.

Each time I tilted my hips, he thrust into me. We got into a nice rhythm. My first o****m came out of nowhere almost blinding me. Declan held me as I shook uncontrollably.

“You’re so tight, especially when you come.”

It was then that I remembered what we’d forgotten. “Holy s**t, Declan! We didn’t remember the condom. Can you pull out again?”

He licked the inside of my ear and whispered, “Yes, but one day I want to come inside of you.”

I shivered. “Maybe I’ll let you, if you’re a good boy.”

After that, he started pounding into my p***y. His hands were all over me. I was on fire, wantonly thrusting my hips back against his. When he tugged on my n****e, I screamed. He immediately clamped his hand over my mouth. That only turned me on more.

I reached down and rubbed his c**k as he pushed into me. I knew Declan was close because his big body began to tremble. He sucked on my neck and worked my c**t feverishly. I came hard, collapsing on the ground.

He quickly, but gently pulled out of me. A few seconds later, I felt his c*m hit my ass. I laid completely still while he finished. My body felt wonderful. I was almost asleep on the shower mat when he picked me up.

“Come on, Madison. I’ll help you bathe. That was…amazing. It’s always amazing with you. Thanks for playing along.”

I mumbled something and rested my head on his chest. My post coital glow had overtaken my body. Declan ended up washing the both of us. He spent more time soaping up my breasts than he should have, but I didn’t complain.

After we got out of the shower and toweled off, I went to my closet to find some clothes for the day. I was planning to take Sophie to get her ears pierced at the mall in town. Tina and Noah were going with us. I would have invited Declan, but I knew he had the date with Linda tonight.

“So, are you excited about tonight, Declan?” I asked, making light conversation.

He appeared to be deep in thought. “Not really. I don’t really get along with my parents, and Linda being there isn’t going to help.”

“I’m sorry to hear that. Just try to make the best of the situation. A real date with a beautiful woman at an expensive restaurant is bound to be more fun than hanging out with me and the kids. Enjoy yourself.”

He pulled a pair of blue boxers out of his bag and put them on. A little crease formed on his forehead.

“I’d choose you and the kids any day. Last night was wonderful. I felt comfortable, and I had a really great time. Tonight won’t even compare. It’s going to be miserable.”

I walked over and kissed him on the cheek. He hugged me, peppering kisses on my collarbones and neck.

“You’ll be fine. Text or call if you need me, which I doubt you will,” I said, wiggling out of his arms.

His face fell. “Why do you do that, Madison? Every time I hold you, you pull away.”

“I um, I’m not used to hugging anyone besides the kids. It’s nothing personal. I’m sorry if I offended you.”

He pulled me back into his arms and kissed the top of my head. “You’re forgiven, just…. I haven’t had much human contact in years. It feels good to be close to you.”

We were getting too intimate again so I walked over to the dresser and pulled out my underwear, dropping my towel. I heard Declan’s breath catch. I’d never felt sexy a day in my life, but with him I did. I chose a nude lace set of bra and panties with little blue bows on the front.

“Declan, can you come over and clasp my bra for me. I know you’re very good at taking them off. Let’s see how good you are at putting them on.”

He practically ran. I trembled as his big long fingers lightly caressed the skin of my back. He leaned down and kissed my neck again. I moved my damp hair aside to give him better access. He turned me around and buried his face in my t**s, getting his fill before he snapped my bra into place.

“God, I hate when you cover them up. They should be worshiped twenty-four-seven,” he said, staring at my chest.

I didn’t know what to say to that so I began putting on my panties.

All of a sudden, I felt something hot and wet on my skin. Declan Walsh had just licked my ass cheeks.

“You’re bad, Walsh. Maybe Noah was onto something, you do need to be put in the time out corner.”

He pulled my underwear up the rest of the way and grabbed my ass.

“Hmmm, I prefer to take my punishment quick and all at once.

Therefore, I’d rather have a s******g. Feel free to ‘punish’ me anytime you think I’ve been bad.”

I gulped. “Well, um, yeah…”

We kissed again. This time, I palmed his rock hard ass. He was in very good shape for any age, but especially for a thirty-four-year-old. Plus, he looked like he was about ten years younger. His lips were soft but firm. We’d only been f*****g for a week, and he already knew how to make me burn.

By the time he pulled away from me, I was wet again. The bastard smirked and squeezed my t**s before walking over to his bag and grabbing something. He was even whistling. I had to resist the urge to punch him in the stomach.

He handed me a book. “You know that I used to be a writer. Well, I still write but under a pen name. If anyone knew that it was me, people would protest and stores would stop selling my novels. This is the first book in my Blood Pact series. The first three books are all currently on all the bestseller lists. I autographed it for you. Besides my publisher, you’re the only person who knows I’m the writer. I wanted to share this with you because we’re friends.”

I began to sob. “Oh, Declan. You…thanks for sharing this with me. I promise not to tell anyone, not even Tina. This means a lot. I don’t read much, because I never had the time before, but I’ll read every page of your book.”

He used the pads of his thumbs to wipe my eyes. “Don’t cry, sweetheart.”

Declan’s trust in me had really touched a deep part of my heart. He’d been so good with the kids the other night too. I’d started to like and need him more than I should. I knew that one day he’d get his life back and move on, but I planned to enjoy him while he was here with us. When he left, at least I’d have fond memories.

I gave him a tight hug and then put the book in a prominent position on my bookshelf. When I glanced over at Declan, he was smiling. I took out a pair of dark wash skinny jeans and a long sleeved sweetheart tee to wear. The top was low cut and showed a good portion of the tops of my breasts, but I planned to wear a hoodie with it.

After we finished, Declan twirled me around in a circle. His eyes narrowed when they got to my chest. I looked down to see what the problem was but didn’t see anything out of the ordinary. He was practically shaking with rage.

“Please tell me you’re not wearing that outside of the house. It’s bad enough you wear those jeans that hug you like a second skin, but this…”

I snatched my hand away. “I am wearing this to Seattle. I’m going to get my ears pierced with Sophie. If you have a problem with my outfit, I suggest you avert your eyes. I dress for comfort. I’m sorry if that offends you.”

The fucker picked me and sat down on my blue overstuffed loveseat. “I didn’t mean to make you angry. I love the way you dress. You’re naturally beautiful so anything looks good on you. I…I know how guys think. You’re my best friend, Madison. I don’t want anyone taking advantage of you.”

My heart softened when he called me his ‘best friend’. I kissed him on the cheek. “Thanks for worrying, but no one is going to take advantage of me. I can take care of myself. Besides, I’ll be wearing a hoodie most of the time. The only people who will see the shirt are the kids, the ear piercer, and Tina.”

There was a lot of inappropriate touching before he helped me stand up. I ruffled his soft hair. It was a little long on the ends.

He sighed and leaned into my hands. “Do you want to cut my hair, Madison? I don’t like going to salons anymore and it’s getting a little too long.”

I giggled. “Um, sure. If you have time tomorrow, I can do it then. I need to trim Noah’s, too. He cries if anyone else does it.”

Declan smiled and nodded his head. “That would be great. Oh, and what you said before, about Linda being beautiful, she’s not ‘beautiful’ to me. She’s like a painting that you see reproduced everywhere, but you’re like the rare one that hangs on in the Louvre.”

I blushed. Why does he say s**t like that? “Uh, thanks, Declan. Now, I need you to go and ring the doorbell. We have to pretend like you just got here. I, um, I really enjoyed this morning. I wish every Saturday was this good.”

We were kissing again when someone knocked on the door.

“Mommy, can I come in? Noah took my notebook and he won’t give it back,” Sophie said from the other side.

Declan laughed. I pushed him out onto the balcony so he could climb down the side stairs. He gave me one last kiss before complying.

Then, I went into mom mode. I opened the door to find my little girl rubbing her eyes. She was wearing her favorite pair of star pajamas.

I kissed her baby soft cheeks. “We’ll get it back, babygirl. Are you excited about today?”

She perked up. “Yes! I can’t wait, mommy. I know I have to wear the original earrings for a few weeks, but we should buy extra pairs for when I can change them.”

Her excitement was infections. I pulled her into my arms and spun her around. It was then that I noticed Declan standing on the balcony staring at us. I glared at him. He held his hands up and winked before leaving. He was such a pain in my ass.

Sophie and I left the room. We bumped into Noah in the hallway. He was holding Sophie’s personal notebook. He gave it to her and wrapped his tiny arms around her waist.

“I sorry, Sophie. I just wanted you to wake up and watch cartoons with me. Please don’t put me in time out, mommy. Ima good boy.”

Sophie and I shared a look before smothering him in kisses and tickling his belly. He laughed and soaked up all the love. Since he was only five, he still had chubby cheeks. I’d been so sad when Sophie’s face started to thin out. I loved kissing my babies. They were growing up too fast for my liking.

When we got downstairs, Tina was in the kitchen making coffee. The kids went to hug her. I took out some ingredients and began making chocolate croissants. The kids loved them. Tina did, too. They usually made whip cream and cherry smiley faces on the tops. Croissants had way too many calories for me, so I just enjoyed them vicariously.

The kids went to the den to watch television.

Tina lifted my chin and looked into my eyes.“Someone’s been f****d. Spill it, Madison. Is Declan upstairs? Did he spend the night?”

I groaned. “No, um, yes, we had s*x, but he didn’t spend the night. He’s supposed to ring the doorbell and pretend like he just got here. Please, play along for Noah and Sophie.”

Tina laughed and rubbed the legs of her jeans. “You’re secretly f*****g Declan Walsh. It’s like a soap opera. I won’t tell the kids.”

Five minutes later, the doorbell rang. I asked Tina to roll the pastries so that I could answer it. Standing on the porch was Declan, who looked just as fuckable as he had upstairs. I smiled and ushered him inside. He surprised me by pushing me against the door and claiming my lips.

“What was that for?” I panted.

He smiled. “I missed you.”

“It’s only been fifteen or twenty minutes, Declan.”

He smirked and continued on to the kitchen. Tina greeted him cordially, barely managing to keep the smile off her face. The kids came running into the kitchen. When they saw that it was Declan, they began dancing around in excitement.

Noah gave him that silly handshake again, which made us all laugh. Sophie still kind of hung back, but Declan pulled her into his arms and pecked her cheeks. She giggled loudly. Seeing her with him made me feel good. She needed a male figure in her life. Not that I was asking Declan to be that, but still it was nice.

“I have something for you guys,” Declan said, reaching into his pockets. I groaned. He had to stop giving the kids gifts. They would get spoiled. He pulled out two cards and handed one to Sophie and the other to Noah.

“Thanks, Declan! I love the Discovery Channel Store,” Sophie squealed, holding up a….five-hundred-dollar gift card! Noah’s was to for Toys r Us. He was confused until Sophie explained to him what it was. They both launched themselves at Declan and embraced him. He laughed and picked them up, one in each arm.

I scowled. “Declan, that’s really nice of you. We’ll talk about your generosity later.”

He looked scared. Tina laughed and continued to put the chocolate in the croissants. After smirking at me, Declan carried the kids back into the den. I didn’t remember the last time my babies had laughed so hard.

It didn’t take long to finish breakfast. When everything was on the table, I went to get the kids. Noah was in Declan’s lap pointing at the TV screen. Sophie was next to him, resting her head on his chest. Declan had his arm around her shoulders. I pulled out my Samsung and took a picture.

“Breakfast is ready. Go let Aunt T help you wash your hands. I need to speak to Declan alone for a minute.”

Both of my babies pouted. I gave their bottoms little smacks as they passed, making them giggle.

“Declan, you can’t…” That was all I got out before he lifted my shirt and kissed my belly button.

“Please, sweetheart. They’re so happy. I like giving them stuff.”

I sighed. “But, Declan, five-hundred-dollar gift cards are too much. You can give them things occasionally, but small things. You don’t have to buy their affection. They already like you.”

He stood up and bent down to kiss my neck. “I just love making them smile. I know their father doesn’t…”

I held up my hand. “You don’t have to take over for him. I told you that first night that I’m not looking for a daddy for them.”

He frowned. “I know that, Madison. Being with them benefits me, too. They’re great kids. You’ve done a great job. I’m not trying to be their father. I just want to show them not all men are selfish bastards.”

We talked for a few minutes before going back to the kitchen. Sophie was helping Noah make his smiley face while Tina watched. I grabbed a big mug of black coffee and watched all of them eat.

Declan stopped mid chew and glared at me. “Why aren’t you eating, Madison?” he asked, taking the whip cream from Noah.

“Croissants are good, but they’re really fattening. I’ll just make myself a bowl of oatmeal.”

Declan pushed his plate away. “I’m not eating if mommy doesn’t eat. Who’s with me?”

Noah, Sophie, and Tina followed suit. I huffed and took a large croissant. My babies insisted that they decorate it for me. Declan pulled out the chair next to him and I sat down. We laughed and ate until we were all full.

Declan invited us all out on his boat for a Sunday fishing trip. Noah was beyond excited with the prospect of playing with worms. I agreed because the kids were so excited. Tina said she had some work to do and declined. I didn’t believe her at all.

After we put the dishes away, it was time for Declan to leave. He kissed my babies before walking to the door. Once again, he pulled me into his arms and ravaged my mouth when no one was looking. I had a stupid smile on my face as I watched him bike away.

Declan Walsh was getting under my skin, that was not a good thing. I was going to have to stay strong and keep repeating to myself that he was ‘just a friend’. Somehow, it seemed like he was more, though.

Tina and I talked pastry shop business as we drove to Seattle.. It was way bigger than Port Townsend The kids loved the mall. I took Sophie to get her ears pierced. She was a champ and barely winced. When it was my turn, she held my hand.

After we picked out some earrings and got our aftercare kits, we met up with Noah and Tina at the Discovery Channel store. Some guy was flirting with Tina and asking her if Noah was hers. I giggled when she told him that Noah was indeed her son and that she was happily married. The guy sauntered away looking dejected.

“Tina, you should have given the guy a chance.”

She laughed. “He was so not my type.”

Sophie ended up buying a biology kit with microscope, some astrology books, and a glow in the dark wall tapestry for Noah. The saleslady was really nice to my babies. They laughed and smiled the entire time. I thought my heart would burst, because I was so happy.

It took forever to get Noah out of Toys r Us. He bought games that we could all play as well as stuff for his sister. It made me happy to see my kids sharing. I’d given them a two-hundred-and-fifty dollar limit. When they were done picking out stuff, I confiscated the cards.

After all the excitement, we were hungry so we stopped at the food court to get something to eat. I had to use the restroom so Tina stayed with the kids. When I came out, I accidentally bumped into a small woman. She was holding a little boy’s hand.

“Sorry, I didn’t see you.”

The woman smiled. “That’s okay. I’m quite clumsy. My name is Natalie Boyd. You’re Madison Smith. I’ve been wanting to introduce myself but never got the chance. I’m the kindergarten teacher. Your son, Noah, is going to be in my class. This is my son, Ambrose.”

The little red-haired boy smiled at me. He had big blue eyes and freckles on his cheeks. He was as cute as a button.

I shook his hand and Natalie’s. “Call me Madison. Everyone does.

“Listen, we’re having lunch in the food court. Would you like to join us? It’s just me, the kids, and their Aunt Tina.

Ambrose tugged on his mother’s hand. “Pwease, mommy!”

She laughed and nodded. “Okay.”

We made small talk as we walked back to the food court. Natalie was really sweet, but her clothes were horrible. She looked like a cross between a grandma and a librarian. Her glasses hung from a chain around her neck. She was in her twenties, but dressed like she was in her sixties.

We bonded over the fact that we were both single mothers. Sadly, Ambrose’s father, like Tom, wasn’t in his life. It was ashamed so many men were missing out on such wonderful kids. It made me angry. I just wished there was something that I could do.

Noah ran over to me before I made it inside the food court. He eyed Ambrose hopefully before taking his hand and leading him to our table. I introduced everyone. Tina and Natalie hit it off. Ambrose, who was the same age as Noah, also had an abundance of energy. They played while Sophie showed off her new earrings.

“So, do you know many people in town, Madison?” Natalie asked, picking at her slice of pizza.

I shrugged. “A few. I know Dean, the Howards, Ted, and Declan Walsh. Oh, and I’m sure you know Neal Smith is my biological father.”

She squirmed. “You know Declan? He usually keeps to himself.”

Tina giggled.

“Yeah, um, well, we’re friends. He’s a great guy once you get to know him.”

Natalie filled us in on all the town gossip. For such a small town, Port Townsend sure had its share of drama. We let the kids play a little more before calling it a day. Natalie invited us all over to her house for dinner. School was set to start next week so she would be busy. I knew that she would have her hands full with Noah. I just hoped he behaved himself.

I drove back to Port Townsend. Tina and the kids fell asleep in the car. When I stopped to get gas, I pulled out my phone and texted Declan. I thanked him for the gift cards and told him how much the kids loved them.

He didn’t text me back, so I figured he was getting ready for his date. The fact that he was going out with another woman shouldn’t have bothered me, but it did.

Declan

After the wonderful s*x and breakfast at Madison’s house, I dreaded going home. Brando needed to be fed, though. I rode my bike through the woods, stopping to take in the scenery. I saw the same deerwhicht reminded me of Madison. I hung back so that I wouldn’t scare it.

When I got home, Brando was at the front door waiting for me. I grabbed some leftover beef tips and put it into his bowl. He ate greedily while I scratched his ears. I told him about my morning with Madison and the kids. He whimpered, probably feeling left out.

After taking a nap, I decided to do some work. I had an email and a missed Skype from Joey. He was in some remote part of New Zealand which had sporadic internet connections. The email included a picture of him winning another trophy. I added it to my photo book.

According to his letter, he was going to be in town next week. I wrote him back, telling about Madison and the kids and how excited I was that they were going to meet. Usually, he stayed with me when he came to visit. I really enjoyed hanging out with my bro, so it wasn’t a problem.

My little sister, Laurie, also sent me a text message. She’d just broken up with her boyfriend and was feeling down. I was surprised to hear from her because Laurie and I weren’t exactly close. I composed a quick reply and sent it.

It was then that I noticed a missed text from Madison. She’d written to tell me thanks, and about how much fun the kids had at the mall. I really wanted to go with them. But I didn’t want Madison to pull back by thinking I was clingy, so I didn’t even ask. I was glad that they all had fun, though.

Thinking of Madison and that hot as f**k session we’d had this morning, distracted me to no end. I barely managed to get out two chapters. My body was still tingling from my two intense orgasms. I couldn’t believe she’d pleasured me with her breasts, and then let me take her from the back.s

The story that she told me about losing her virginity was rough. It wasn’t fair that someone as great as Madison didn’t have parents who cared.

Obviously, it hadn’t detoured her from being an excellent mother. I’d stayed to watch she and Sophie. They were beautiful as they danced and laughed together; neither Laurie or I had that growing up. My parents were cold, yuppie WASPS.

I still had a long way to go in regards to Madison’s low self esteem. She didn’t see herself clearly and I was determined to make her believe she was beautiful. I also wanted to f**k her in both of our beds and sleep over sometimes. I never felt like I got enough time with her.

Around five, I started getting ready for my dinner thing. It was at Chez Renoir, some new French place. I went through the motions of showering, shaving, and picking out clothes. I chose a dark blue Gucci suit with a white collared shirt and no tie.

After brushing my hair, I figured I looked okay. However, I was looking forward to my haircut tomorrow. I liked having Madison’s fingers n my hair. Hell, I liked having her fingers everywhere. When we touched, something fierce and primal came out. It was addicting.

The drive to the restaurant was uneventful. I’d chosen my new black Porsche for the occasion, not to impress Linda, but just to get it out of the garage. I really wanted to take Madison for a drive in it, though; she would look sexy as hell behind the wheel.

When I pulled up to the restaurant, a valet came to take my car. He carefully got behind the wheel and drove it away. I took several deep breaths before going inside. Some people stopped eating to point and whisper. My yoga shop was here, and since it was a bigger city, I was well known. I ignored all the prying eyes as the hostess led me to our table.

Linda was the first to spot me. She stood up and kissed me on the cheek. I got a whiff of Dior and expensive wine. She was wearing a short black dress which showed off her long legs. Her body was slender and long, almost like Sarah’s had been. She had her curly blonde hair stacked on the top of her head. I felt absolutely no attraction.Sarah

“Declan, I’m so happy you decided to come! I’ve been trying to get Holly to get me a date with you forever. You look very handsome.”

I mumbled, “thanks,” and took the seat next to her.

My dad refilled his cup and glared at me. “Declan, it’s been too long. How have you been?”

“Good, and you?”

He sighed. “Business is down but that’s to be expected in this economic climate. Your sister is spending money like water in New York, and your mother insists on decorating the house for the millionth time.”

Holly scowled at him. “If you were a better businessman, you wouldn’t be having problems. I’m doing perfectly well. As for Laurie, she is our daughter. The least we can do is take care of her.”

Dad took a swig of wine. “She’s not my kid. She’s just some accident you had and hoisted onto my back.”

“Why you selfish, pigheaded ass…,” Holly began.

I snapped my fingers for the waiter. He came over with another bottle of wine. Since rehab, I’d only allowed myself a little alcohol. The most wine I could have was two glasses and I also had the occasional beer but only two of those. I stayed away from all hard liquor.

Holly and Michael were having their own private argument. Mom gestured wildly as dad continued to get sloppy drunk. I rolled my eyes and played with my appetizer. Suddenly, I didn’t have an appetite.

Linda leaned over and whispered in my ear, “Don’t worry, Declan. My parents are even worse. Let’s just get through dinner and then I can show you a good time.”

I choked on my Tapenade. “I plan on calling it an early night. I’ll be more then happy to drive you home, though. I know it must have been hard riding with my parents.”

She put her manicured hand on my upper thigh and rubbed me. “You drive me home, and I’ll ride you all night, big boy.”

I pried her away so that I could use the restroom. After doing my business, I came back out. Mom and dad were three sheets to the wind and still arguing. Linda was eyeing me the way a buzzard eyes a dying person in the desert.

“I’m so glad you’re back, Sexy Dexy. If you’re having a ‘problem’, I’d be glad to go outside and help you.”

Sexy Dexy had been the nickname that the media had made up for me during my whorish younger years. My conquests were always eager to brag to some gossip rag about my s****l skills. The fact that Linda used that name let me know what kind of person she was. Famewhore.

Dinner was excruciating. Between fighting Linda off and trying to keep my parents from coming to blows, I was exhausted. My phone vibrated in my pocket halfway through desert. I turned it off because I didn’t have the energy to deal with anything else.y

We were leaving when a reporter ran up to me. “So, Declan Walsh, how does it feel to be free and eating at expensive restaurants while your wife and baby rot in a cold grave?”

I tried to ignore the fucker but he was persistent. Linda stepped in front of me and held out her hand to the slimeball.

“Linda Malloy, granddaughter of Senator Orin Malloy. I’m Declan’s new girlfriend. He has served his time and doesn’t wish to discuss the matter of his wife’s death. Now, get out of our face before he calls his lawyer.”

The reporter smiled and asked Linda how to spell her name. I buried my face in my hands and continued to the car. I was almost there when my mother’s voice stopped me.

“It’s so embarrassing. Can’t we go anywhere without Declan ruining everything? I tell you, Michael, you may hate Laurie, but I wish Declan hadn’t ever been born.”

I marched over to my mother. “I’m sorry I’m such a letdown to you, Holly. You’re the one that begged me to come along to this dinner. If I embarrass you so much, then forget my number and stop cashing the checks I send your business,” I sneered.

Dad laughed and spun around in a circle. “You tell her, son! She’s always been a b***h. Hey do you think you could give me another loan, just till business picks up?”

I pulled my checkbook out of my wallet and threw it at them. “Here! This is all you f*****g care about. Take it! Write as many checks as you want. Bankrupt me for all I care. I’m done with the both of you. Don’t contact me anymore. It’ll be as if I never existed. Have a great life.”

Thankfully, the valet pulled up after that. He helped Linda in the passenger seat and I took off. I pounded the steering wheel to let the frustration out. Linda played with the controls of the Porsche and oohed and ahhed. f*****g gold digger.

She gave me directions to her house. It was a pretty brick Tudor two-story. Because she was so wasted, she couldn’t make it up her stairs. I practically carried her into the house. She flipped a few lights on and invited me to have a cup of coffee.

I wanted to protest but I was still too distracted to drive, so I took her up on the offer. She went upstairs and came back down in a slinky nightie. I almost laughed as she pulled out all her best moves. My c**k sat flaccid inside of my pants.

I was just about to excuse myself for the night when she pulled out a little baggie and a tray. Surely she wasn’t…

“It’s been a rough night. Wanna do some lines with me? It’ll loosen you up. Afterwards, we can go upstairs and completely ruin my bed. I want to see if you’re as good as everyone claims. Come on, you get first hit.”

I stood rigidly as she cut the first lines. I hadn’t gotten high since the accident, but I remembered what it felt like. After the awful dinner, I really wanted a hit. I could almost taste the powder on my tongue.

I pulled out my phone to call Pastor Howard. I had to get out of the house ASAP, and I knew he’d send someone for me if I asked.

When I touched my screen, there was a missed message from Madison. I opened it.

“Hope tonight isn’t too horrible. Here’s something to cheer you up in case you’re not having fun.”

xoxoxo, sweetheart.

It was a Gif of Noah and Sophie making silly faces. I stared at the blinking image until it replaced my need for the cocaine. I wanted Madison and her family’s friendship more. If I relapsed, I’d go back to prison and never see them again. Without even knowing it, Madison had just saved my life. Another stint in rehab or prison would have killed me.

“I have to go, Linda. I don’t use anymore. You shouldn’t either. It may feel good now, but in the long run it’s nothing but trouble.”

She took a hit, stood up, and rubbed her body against me. “Awww, you’re just saying that. I won’t tell. Here,” she said, handing me a rolled up dollar bill.

I pushed her away. “No, Linda! I’m done with that s**t. I’m going home. Please, don’t try to contact me anymore. I’m not the least bit interested in you, especially now that I know you’re an addict.”

She took another hit and rubbed her nose. “Either you f**k me or I tell that reporter about how Declan Walsh coerced me into doing cocaine with him. I’m the one that tipped the guy off in the first place. If the media gets wind of that story, you’ll be back in San Quentin before the month is out.”

I shrugged. “Tell him. I have nothing to hide. I’ve been clean for five f*****g years! I’m not going to let some cokehead bimbo ruin what has taken me so long to build. I’ll do a public drug test, and I’ll pass. You, however, won’t. I’ll have my agent spin the story and implicate your precious grandfather. It’s a re-election year. I’m sure he wouldn’t be too happy with bad press.”

She slapped me. “Get out! You’ll be sorry, Declan Walsh. You’re nothing but a filthy murderer. You were lucky I was even giving you the time of day.”

I took a quick picture of Linda and the cocaine and sent it all to my lawyer. She began throwing shoes at me as I ran for the door. I told Daniels exactly what happened and advised him to stay on top of the situation. He said he’d make it a priority. I just hoped Linda wasn’t as stupid as she’d acted tonight. I would ruin her if I had to.Daniel

After my hasty exit, I drove around the city for a while. A part of me wanted to find a dealer and get that much needed hit, but I pounded that motherfucker into the ground. It was almost midnight. city

I took a chance and called Madison. She answered on the second ring. “Declan, hey. How did it go?”

“Madison, I know it’s late and not what we usually do, but can I come over? I really need to see you right now. It’s an emergency.”

I heard her set something aside. “Sure, Declan. Are you okay? Do you need me to call someone?”

I laughed. “No, I just need to see you. I’ll be there in an hour.”

The drive back to Port Townsend went by quickly. Madison was outside on the porch when I pulled up. She’d been pacing back and forth. I pulled her into my arms and kissed her forehead. She wrapped her arms around me, offering comfort.

“Come inside. Everyone’s asleep,” she said, opening the door for me.

When we got there, she led me up to her room. I sat down on the edge of the bed and rubbed my hands together. For some reason, I was really cold. Madison quickly undressed me and helped me under the covers.

I pulled her into my arms and kissed her juicy lips. “I’m sorry, Madison. Tonight was… it was too much. Linda offered me cocaine, and I almost took it. If you hadn’t sent me that picture of Noah and Sophie, I might have…”

She put her index finger over my lips. “Shhh, the important thing is that you didn’t. You resisted the ultimate temptation. I’m proud of you. Thanks for coming to me. I’m your friend. I’m always here for you.”

It had started to rain, so Madison insisted that I stay over. I fell asleep pillowed in the sweet scent of her soft breasts. She massaged my scalp and sang a lullaby. It was the most comforting thing in the world. Her gentle caresses and soft voice filled every part of me. I didn’t need cocaine. I had my sweetheart.

As I was drifting off, I quietly whispered, “I love you, Madison.”