Dray (Miller Brothers Book 1) (13 page)

“How long has he been asleep?” a gruff, irritated voice asks, waking me up. That voice only belongs to one person.

Ritchie.

“About an hour,” Luce replies. She sounds tired; she should be the one sleeping, not me.

“So, how long was he awake?”

“About five minutes. It was so quick. I never got the chance to tell the nurse before he fell back to sleep.” She sighs.

I wish he’d quit with all the questions.

“Trust me to miss out. The moment the fucker decides to wake up, I’m off making phone calls. What did he say? Did you tell him about the baby? Was he pleased?”

“Jesus, Ritchie, give her a break,” I choke out, coughing. My voice is all gravely, so Luce jumps up and pours me some water. She puts the straw to my mouth and I take a few gulps to try and quench my dry throat.

“So, you’ve finally decided to come back to the land of the living. Eight long weeks we’ve sat around waiting for you.” He looks pissed, like I owe him an apology.

“Well, no one asked you to.” My lips quirk up in a smile so Ritch can see I’m playing him. It’s good to see him, too.

“I’m just going to head out for a little fresh air and tell the nurse you’re awake. Give you guys time to catch up.” She bends down, pressing her lips against mine as she caresses my cheek. I give her a look of reassurance I’ll be fine before she heads for the door. The moment it swings shut, Ritchie scoots forward in his chair.

“Fuck, man, you had us worried. Seriously, it’s good to have you back.” He takes my hand and gives it a squeeze. I can see the worry in his eyes. I know if it had been the other way ‘round, I would have been exactly the same, too.

“I’m fine. Hope you’ve kept everything going?” Yep, talking work already, I can’t help myself.

“Everything’s fine, Dray. The new gym’s been put on hold, so we’ve just concentrated on keeping everything going. I didn’t want to have to make any decisions without your approval.”

“That’s good.” He knows how OCD I am. “Thanks, Ritch, I think I owe you some time off after this. Your holiday is on me.” I wink.

“Fuck, that sounds good, away from this thing.” He motions to the phone in his hand. “I thought I’d have to get it surgically removed from my hand. I’ll have to let Laurie know you’ve woken up, she’s been so worried.” His brow furrows, and I can see the pain I’ve put them all through.

“Does she hate me after what happened with Diane?” I frown at that very thought. She’s a woman I admire and love. I’d hate to lose her friendship; she’s become like family to me.

“Hey, she’s fine. She was a little pissed about the way you’ve messed Diane around, but the whole nearly dying part kind of swung in your favour.” He smirks. “I think she’ll let you off now. Maybe let her have plenty of holds of the baby. You know women go crazy over that kind of shit.”

I close my eyes for a few moments. “I can’t believe I’m going to be a dad, Ritch.”

It still feels surreal.

“Are you happy?” he asks, looking unsure.

My eyes snap open. “Fucking ecstatic. I’ve always wanted kids.”

“Really? Because you’ve never once mentioned it,” he replies, looking completely surprised.

“That’s because I only ever wanted them with Luce,” I mutter.

There was never anyone else.

“So, you and her are a—”

“Yeah, we’re together,” I conclude.

“How did that happen?”

“I just exploded over the whole Marco situation. You know that fucker gets to me, and it unleashed the demon. It all came out, and she told me she loved me, too.”

“Finally.” Ritch smiles, still looking slightly surprised. “I’m pleased for you, mate, I really am. I want to see you happy and well with the little one coming along.”

“I want you both to be the godparents.” I obviously haven’t cleared it with Luce, but I know she’ll be in complete agreement. Laurie and Ritch are like family to me.

His eyes meet mine, and I see the delight there shining inside. “Well, I didn’t like to ask, but it would be an honour. Laurie is going to cry when I tell her. She’ll be making the christening cake, that’s for sure.”

“See, I knew asking would come in handy.” I smirk.

“Oh, yeah, do you want her to do the buffet, too, while she’s at it?”

“Well, now you mention it.”

He slaps my arm playfully. ”Seriously, the thought of you not pulling through. Fuck, those were some dark days. You know, Luce never left your side. She slept in the chair then they brought a bed in. We tried to get her to leave to go home and rest, but she was having none of it. She said she wasn’t moving until you woke up. There was a time we wondered if that would ever happen. The doctors didn’t give us a lot to go on, so it was just a waiting game.”

“I’m sorry, it was one of those stupid moments. I bent down to pick up my phone and then the next thing I’m about to mow down a cyclist. I swerved, but I was heading for a tree and there was nothing I could do. When I think how things could have been so different, the thought of leaving Luce with the baby on her own…” My eyes fill with tears, and I quickly close them. I can’t even bear the thought of never seeing my unborn child.

“Dray, you’re here, you’re alive and fuck, have we been praying. You know I’m not a believer in those kinds of things, but it worked. Everything is good. You’ve just got to take time out to recuperate. I can handle the gym.”

“You know that isn’t going to happen, even if I’m chained at home. I’ll still be having regular input, especially getting this project going. We’ve lost eight long weeks, but we won’t lose any more time.”

He rolls his eyes at my words. “You’ll never change. I thought maybe the accident would have knocked some sense into you, but you’re still work-mad.”

“I’m a grafter. I have an empire to expand.” I smirk.

“Shut the fuck up.” He chuckles, and I can’t help but join him.

“I’m going to ask Luce to marry me. I need for it to happen before the baby arrives. I want to do this properly and have her as my wife before we welcome our beautiful baby into the world.”

“Fuck, Dray, do you know how long it usually takes to arrange a wedding? And what if Luce doesn’t want to be your wife? She might just want to leave things how they are. It’s a little overwhelming. You need to give her time to get over this first.” He stresses, but I’m not having any of it.

My eyes flash in anger. “Screw time, I’m making her mine. I’ve waited long enough to put my ring on her hand. We are doing this, this is my family.”

“Calm down. I get it, trust me. I couldn’t wait to put a ring on Laurie’s finger. She has a friend who’s an amazing wedding planner, has done quite a few weddings for Laurie’s friends. I could ask and see what her schedule is like,” he suggests, and I smile.

Sounds good.

“Well, money is no object. I want someone to arrange the whole shebang. I don’t want Luce stressing out over anything, especially with her pregnancy hormones. She’s already been through enough in the last eight weeks.”

“I’ll sort it. I’ll get her email off Laurie and find out if she has any slots free.”

“Thanks.” All I want is Luce to be mine. I just hope she’ll make my life complete by saying yes. I have to come up with the perfect opportunity to propose. I want this to be an amazing memory for her to cherish always. I know the way girls’ minds work; they like to tell the perfect proposal story over and over. So if I’m doing this, I’m doing it right.

Ritch stands up, motioning towards the door. “I’d better get back to it. When you know what day you’re going to be released let me know. I can come and pick you up.”

“Hopefully soon. I cannot wait to get out of here into my own comfy bed,” I whine.

“Don’t even get me started on the coffee.” Ritchie winks and smiles. I know he’s probably had a truckload during the dark days, wondering if I’d pull through. He’s a good friend, even if he does piss me off most of the time. He speaks the truth and he’s as fucking loyal as they come. I couldn’t ask for more.

The door creaks open to reveal a portly looking nurse. “Mr Miller, you’re finally awake. We can begin your tests.”

“I think that’s my cue to leave. Don’t have too much fun now.” Ritchie winks, grinning.

I shoot him a look.

Cheeky fucker.

* * *

Fuck, I’m bored
.

Then the one thing guaranteed to put a smile on my face walks through the door.

Firecracker.

“Hey, thank God for that. I was bored shitless.”

“The nurse has just left.” She giggles at my lack of patience.

“I know, Sherlock, but you know me. I get antsy, so lying in this bed is annoying the fuck out of me. I just want to get home, with you and the bump. Speaking of which.” I motion for her to come near, and she lifts her top up and splays my hand across her stomach as I smile.

“It’s only early days, Dray, so there’s no bump yet. It will be a while before I start to show and feel the baby start to move.”

“I know, but I missed the first eight weeks of this baby’s life, and I’m not missing another moment. Every day, I am going to touch, talk and sing to the bump. This baby will know who its daddy is when the big day arrives. I’m never missing another moment again.”

She grabs my face and holds it in her hands. “Hey, I know. It’s not like you had a say in the last eight weeks. You’re going to be such a good dad.”

“I hope so.” I frown. “Our kid will want for nothing and be lavished with so much love.”

“Then that’s all they’ll need. I can’t wait to meet him or her. What do you hope for?” she asks, her eyes searching mine in wonder.

“A healthy boy or girl will do me fine. But if it’s a girl, I want her to be an exact replica of you—your hair, your eyes, that smile. She’ll be stunning.”

“Dray.” She never could take a compliment, and I love that quality about her. So many of the women I’d screwed lapped up that kind of attention to the max, but Luce was another breed entirely. She was someone who didn’t see her beauty both inside and out. She was perfect.

“And if it’s a boy?” she asks teasingly.

“Then I hope he’s as handsome as his dad.” I smirk. I’m pushing her buttons and she rolls her eyes in annoyance, but from the amusement shining there she knows I’m only joking. “And the baby will naturally be a Man United supporter,” I add.

The thought of sharing a match with my son or daughter almost brings a tear to my eye.

“Well, that’s a given regardless of whether I like it or not,” Luce huffs. She really hates football of any kind.

“You know you love it, really,” I tease. She doesn’t, but I can’t help myself.

She sighs and sits down. I can’t help but notice her mood has taken a sudden turn.

“Hey, what’s wrong?” I kiss her fingers, waiting for her to reply.

“It’s just all so scary bringing a new life into this world. What if I’m not ready? What if I can’t cope? A baby is a lot of responsibility.”

“Hey, come here.” I pull her towards me, urging her onto the bed.

“Dray, we can’t.” She moves away, but I’m having none of it.

“Get on the bed, firecracker. I can’t have this conversation with distance between us. I need you right next to me.”

She rolls her eyes, kicking off her Converse. I love getting my own way and this time, it’s needed. I see the fear in her eyes; she’s had to go through it alone while I was flat out in the coma. I hate myself for not being there in her moment of need, knowing how scared she must have been. She gingerly lies down beside me, avoiding the wires as she gently tucks her body against mine.

“Firecracker, we’ve got this. No one knows what they’re doing at first. If they say differently then they’re lying. We have each other, and we’ll muddle through. Hell, we’ll be so sleep-deprived we won’t know if we’re coming or going, but as long as the baby is fed, changed and bathed then we’re doing a good job. We’re both going to love him or her more than anything and they’ll know it.”

“Dray, how did you get so thoughtful saying the right things? Normally, you’re so blunt, but now you’re making me cry.”

“I just know no money in the world brings this kind of happiness. My heart is so full right now to have the girl I love with all my heart in my arms and the baby I will do anything for growing in her belly. I swear, firecracker, I’m with you every step of the way. We got this. We will make it through and create the most amazing memories.”

She sits up and stares into my face like she’s questioning my words. “Are you really mine, Dray?” she asks, unsure.

“Firecracker, I always have been and always will be.”

She sighs in contentment, snuggling down as I kiss her hair. No more words are needed; the only comfort I can provide now is my touch. She nuzzles into my neck and within seconds, I know she’s asleep. I smile in delight at my whole world lying here in this bed.

It’s perfect.

“I’m not leaving this hospital in a wheelchair,” I growl at Ritchie. I know he’s trying his best to help, but I’m not a fucking invalid. My leg is still sore from the accident where it broke in two places. Thankfully, it healed and the cast removed while I slept, but it’s uncomfortable to walk on. I know I’ll need physio to try and get it back to fitness.

Fuck. I’m being a dick and I know it.

“Look, Dray, the sooner we get out of here, the better. So just get in the bloody chair already,” Luce barks. I can see she’s on her last nerve. She worked a shift before coming here, and the morning sickness is taking its toll. I relent for her, but if I’m going in a chair, she’s riding on my lap. I grab her and drag her down onto me. She squeals at first, but I silence her with a kiss.

“It’s either this or I walk,” I add as an ultimatum.

“So, I guess I’m pushing then.” Ritchie rolls his eyes while heading towards us, but we don’t notice another thing once our lips lock together.

* * *

“Home sweet home,” Ritchie announces, pushing me through the front door. God, it’s good to be home. I never want to stay in hospital again.

I slip out of the wheelchair into the leather recliner—now
that’s
luxury. Luce walks over and arranges my cushions.

God, I feel like a king.

I’m tempted to grab her and kiss the life out of her, but we’ve given Ritchie enough of a floor show. I’m pretty sure he’s desperate to leave as it is.

“I’ll get going,” he adds, walking to the door.

“Remember to email me all the documents, the schedule and the meeting dates,” I yell over my shoulder before he makes a swift exit.

“Fine, I know, tomorrow. I think I deserve the rest of the day off after that little display in the wheelchair.”

Luce’s cheeks heat at the fact she got carried away. All that moaning and writhing around—fuck, I’m getting hard just remembering it. I look at my watch; it’s just after three, so I’ll let him off. I’m happy to be left alone with Luce. I can’t wait to get my hands on her.

The door slams shut and Luce motions to leave, but I have other plans. I pull her down on to me. I’m rock-hard and so fucking horny. She kisses me and we fall deeper, but she moves away reluctantly so our breaths tickle each other’s faces.

“Dray, we can’t. You’re still sore and—”

“Baby, it’s been eight weeks,” I groan, pouting.

“Dray, you’ve been in a coma all that time.” She laughs, shaking her head in amusement. But my cock doesn’t know that, and right now it needs some attention.

I need her
.

I crave her.

I want her so bad
.

“I need you, firecracker. We can go slow, but I need to be buried deep inside you. Please, don’t make me beg,” I plead, giving her a look I hope will change her mind.

“I don’t know, Dray—”

I grind my hard cock into her. She’s lost for words and won’t take much convincing; she’s hornier than me. The last night we spent together was amazing, and I know she’ll be wanting a repeat. My movement is going to be minimal and I’ll have to watch my ribs, but man, it will be fucking worth it to feel her grind down hard on my cock.

I slip my hand inside her top, my fingers soon making their way under her bra and cupping her perfect breast.

Fuck me. Have they gotten bigger?

She moans slightly at my touch. “Dray.”

“Are you okay, baby?”

“They’re just tender.”

“Then let me pay them some extra attention.” Within seconds, I whip her top and bra off and hold both breasts. They are beautiful, and I mould them softly in my hands. Luce groans and leans back, pushing them more into my grip. My mouth waters at the prospect of having those perfect nipples inside. Luce gladly obliges, groaning harder as my tongue rolls the nipple in my mouth, sucking and lightly biting. I’m like a starving man at a feast, wanting more and more. My cock feels like it’s about to explode, but I have to give her this. My other hand reaches into her trousers and finds the part that needs me the most. I brush my fingers along her clit and she moans in agreement as I slide my fingers inside, working her clit with my thumb. Watching her fuck my fingers is the best thing ever, but sliding my cock inside her will be pure Heaven. She comes hard around my fingers and I almost lose it. I let her come down from her high, but I want those trousers off now. I want her fully naked riding my cock. She gives me a look, and I waste no time in letting her know what my intentions are.

“Firecracker, strip for me, baby. I need you now, so fucking bad.”

She climbs off and I suck my fingers, devouring her taste. I know that before the night is through, I’ll have her riding my face.

Her trousers fall to the floor along with her knickers, and she’s standing in front of me in all her naked glory. I bite my lip as my eyes slowly work their way over every delicious inch of her body. Her chest heaves and she looks embarrassed. The rosy tint to her cheeks tells me she’s not comfortable with me staring, but right now, my eyes just want to feast upon her.

“Dray,” she whispers. It’s enough for my eyes to meet hers. I smile, untying the cord on my sweatpants to pull out my hard cock. Her eyes widen at the sight of it, and I can’t smile hard enough.

“Firecracker, I need you to ride me.”

If she wants me to beg then I will.

She walks over and climbs onto my lap. I see an urgency in her eyes; she no longer wants to wait, either.

I sigh as she manoeuvres herself so my cock is aligned with her, groaning loudly when she sinks slowly down on top of me.

Fuck me.

I grip her hips as her eyes lock with mine. She stays frozen for a few seconds as we both catch our breath, before beginning to slowly rise up then grind down. My head falls back into the head rest.

It’s pure Heaven.

She begins to slowly pick up the pace. My hand leaves her hip to tease her perfect breast as it gently bounces with each movement. It overfills my hand as I roll the nipple between my fingers. My other hand falls down to her pussy as my fingers stroke and tease her clit. She moans her approval, riding me harder. The more turned on I become the more pain I feel in my ribs. It’s like they’re about to explode, but the pleasure far outweighs the pain.

Her head falls back, her back arched, and it’s the most perfect thing I’ve ever seen. She looks beautiful as her eyes close, her forehead frowns and her chest heaves, letting out one gigantic shout of euphoria. I come seconds later, releasing into her. It’s like my whole body has become awakened again. I bite back a shout as pain fills me once the pleasure subsides.

Fuck.

“Dray, are you okay” Luce asks, concern laced in her voice.

“Yeah,” I bite out. I can’t tell her I’m in pain else she won’t let me have sex for a few more weeks.

Trust me, that’s not fucking happening.

“Are you sure?”

“Come here, kiss me,” I say to distract her.

She leans forward and I sigh as her soft, sweet lips meet mine. My hand slides down to rest on her bottom, and I give it a squeeze in appreciation. It’s amazing and I should know; I’ve looked at it often enough.

“We need to clean up,” she mumbles between kisses.

“How about a bath?” I suggest. The more time with Luce naked in front of me, the better.

“Sounds good. Should we make it a bubble bath?”

I nod in agreement. It’s a bit girly, but if it means her staying naked, I’ll agree to anything. She kisses me one last time before climbing off, and I watch her walk away. Her bottom jiggles slightly, and I feel myself harden again.

I’m hoping for an encore.