Page 105 of Only for the Season

I cuddle Viking as I walk upstairs to the loft. I manage to make it inside before the first tear falls.

Chapter 34

"You’re going to want to see the kitchen." ~ Jeremy

Jeremy

“You have a deal.” I shake hands with Jade.

“I can’t believe you chose a house this quick.”

I shrug. “When I know what I want, I go after it.”

The same way I went after Parker when I realized she’s the one I want. It took me a while to let go of my prejudices about women. But she showed me not all women are after my money.

I can’t wait to show her this house. It’s perfect for a family. And it’s a short bike ride from the bakery.

“Did you want to view those business listings I sent you now?”

“No need. I decided to buy the large lot of land near the distillery.”

“You’re going to build?”

“It’s the only way to ensure I get exactly what I want.”Apparoohas very specific requirements – climate-controlled rooms, plenty of electrical outlets with surge protection, security with biometrics, to name a few – that I won’t find in an abandoned warehouse or former garage.

“Understood. I’ll draw up the paperwork for both transactions.”

“Thanks, Jade.”

I wait until she locks up the house and then walk her to her car.

With all my business wrapped up, I settle in my new car – I can’t be bothered to have my car shipped across the country – and make my way to the bakery.

The windows ofPirate’s Pastriesare dark, and it’s all closed up for the day. Parker said she usually stays open longer during the holiday season. Maybe she sold out early. Good for her.

As I climb the stairs to the loft, anticipation and excitement fill me. It’s only been a few days since I saw Parker but I missed her. I missed her more than I expected I would.

I plan to spend as few nights away from her as possible from now on. It’ll be difficult the first year asApparootransitions to Smuggler’s Hideaway, but I don’t mind working hard for what I want. And Parker is what I want.

“Parker,” I holler as I knock on the door. When she doesn’t answer, I frown. She said she’d be home tonight waiting for me.

Waiting for me. Maybe she has a fun surprise planned. A surprise including sexy lingerie and a big bed. My cock twitches. I dig my keys out and unlock the door.

Parker is slumped on the floor. Fear ricochets through my body as I rush to her.

“What’s wrong, Princess? Are you injured? Do you need the hospital?”

She lifts her head to meet my gaze and my heart stops at her tear-stained face. I don’t hesitate. I gather her into my arms and settle on the bed with her.

“What happened, Princess?” I brush the hair off her face.

“M-m-my parents.”

I grind my teeth. “What did they do now?”

“They showed me a newspaper clipping. It was a picture of you with another woman.”

Fuck. I cup her face. “I promise I haven’t been with another woman since we met. I’m not a cheater.”