Page 31 of Smut Lovers

Chapter Two

Wren

M y alarm blares ‘ Sleep Token’ from across the room, as I roll over, stuffing a pillow over my head.

The thumping in my skull feels like it’s vibrating along to the song, as my stomach rolls with all the alcohol I consumed.

I shouldn’t have stayed out so late last night but in my defense, we were celebrating the end of another semester at Orange City College.

Brianne insisted we go to Flannigans for karaoke night, which was fine, until her ex showed up with his new side piece.

This led to more alcohol and uninhibited singing that probably is plastered across the internet this morning. Fuck, what were we thinking?

After I shower the night away, I pull on some ripped jeans, an old Guns N’ Roses tee and my black Chucks. I don’t really have a dress code for work. Basically, just don’t show up naked and I’m good.

I jump in my old Jeep Wrangler, blast my morning playlist and take off toward the shop. Well, coffee first, then the shop. I’m supposed to be there to open up, but Zane won’t know if I’m a little late. He usually comes in later.

Mmm, Zane fucking Covington is sex on a stick.

His graying hair and angular features captivate me.

Never would I have thought the silver fox look would be my thing but with him, it totally is.

I would give him my virginity in a heartbeat.

Yes, I know I’m a pathetic twenty-two-year-old virgin.

It’s not that I’ve been waiting for marriage or anything like that.

I guess seeing the dumpster fire of a marriage my parents had put me off men.

I’ve been crushing on Zane since he came to my rescue as I was moving into my new apartment. Apparently, he was meeting his brother but saw me struggling to hold too many boxes.

“Here let me help you with those,” a strong masculine voice booms behind me. I can’t see over the large boxes I’m carrying, but he takes one from the top and I’m left speechless for a moment, as his bright green eyes pierce into my soul. He’s much older but probably the hottest man I’ve ever seen.

“Thank you. I hate moving,” I huff in frustration. I’m instantly aware that I probably look like utter shit because I’ve been sweating my ass off all morning. Of course, I would meet the sexiest man alive at a time like this.

“Yeah, I don’t think anyone particularly likes it,” he chuckles, as we walk to my condo.

“Yeah, you’re right.” I kick the door open, dropping my box to the floor with a thud. He places his down much gentler then turns toward me.

“Do you have more that needs to be brought up?”

“This was actually my last load for the day. Thanks…”

“Zane,” he holds his hand out for me to take. “Zane Covington.” I place my hand in his, as heat spreads through my body. A jolt of electricity dances between us. His eyes sparkle as though he feels the same pulse I did. If only.

“I’m Wren,” I reply, realizing I’m still shaking his hand, staring at this perfectly toned and tattooed man before me. Please let the floor open up and swallow me whole now.

“It’s nice to meet you, Wren. Welcome to the building.” Zane smiles and like the awkward introvert I am, I reply with a “You too”. Palm meets face. He chuckles, making my cheeks flame even more.

“I just meant, it’s nice to meet you too.

Not 'you too' as in welcome to the building 'you too'. Ugh, sorry just, um, thanks again for the help,” I rush out. Why am I babbling like an idiot to this Greek god of a man before me? Seriously, floor, anytime you’re ready to open up would be great, thanks.

“You’re welcome, Wren.” The way my name rolls from his tongue has me in a damn near puddle. “My brother lives a few doors down.” He motions down the hall. Ah, so he doesn’t live here. That sucks. I wouldn’t mind seeing this eye candy every day.

“Oh, okay. Well, again, thanks. I’m a ‘take as much as you possibly can’ type to minimize the number of trips. Obviously, I was a bit overzealous,” I chuckle, awkwardly as I shove my hands into my back pockets, rocking forward on my feet.

He laughs and nods his head. “I’m the same way but maybe next time just take more trips.”

“Yeah…” He winks before he turns to leave and just like that Zane Covington replaces Colson Baker in my midnight fantasies.

It is sheer coincidence that I applied for a job at his tattoo shop.

My interview was with his brother whom I’d never met.

Axel hired me on the spot, and I began that day.

Starting with moving some boxes. Deja vu, right?

Because of course I stack them too high again and guess who comes to my aid. Zane Covington.

“I’m starting to think you have a penchant for getting yourself into sticky situations,” he tsks. “I thought I told you to take more trips.” He gives me a firm expression, leaving no room for argument.

“I took it as more of a suggestion.” I shrug. Zane takes the box from my hands and places it on a shelf. Coming back, he towers over me, making my stomach swirl with both lustful nerves and fearful butterflies.

“Wren, do I need to show you what happens to little girls who don’t listen,” he murmurs into my ear as he leans over. Goosebumps erupt over my skin from his warm breath ghosting my neck.

“I-um, n-no, sir,” I stutter, as all rational thoughts evaporate from my mind.

“Then get your ass back to work. Don’t let me catch you carrying too many boxes.

I won’t go easy on you next time.” His threat lingers in the air along with his signature scent—sandalwood and pine.

It swirls around us, intensifying the effect he has on me.

I nod, using all of my willpower to get my legs moving and out of the back room.

My mind comes back to the present. I don’t have time to drool over my intimidating, yet gorgeous, boss with his thick muscular arms covered in tattoos. I grab my coffee from the barista and head across town to Broken Halo Tattoo Shop.

As I pull into the parking lot, I see Zane’s motorcycle and I inwardly cringe at the scolding that awaits me. Facing those are nerve wracking. I’m not sure why I’m the one he chose to torment but whatever the reason, he zeroed in on me and hasn’t let up.

“Well look who decided to join us,” Zane’s voice booms from behind the counter.

“Sorry. My alarm—“

“Cut the shit, Wren. You stayed out partying all night and then you think you can just show up here whenever you please?” Fuck, he’s mad. His stormy green eyes narrow on me, making me both hot and tense. Wait, how did he know I was out last night?

“Are you fucking following me?” I seethe. My hands jump to cover my mouth because I know I just fucked up. I wish I could reel the words back in, but they’re out there now, floating between us. His nostrils flare as he stands from his seat.

The tension is palpable as Zane moves from behind the counter, stepping closer, his eyes locking onto mine. His anger etches lines across his features, and I find myself caught in this charged moment. I take a deep breath, trying to find the right words to say but nothing forms.

“I…” I trail off as Zane grips my chin, forcing me to meet his gaze.

“You, my little songbird, are about to find out what happens to disobedient brats,” he growls. Zane’s ominous words hang in the air, leaving me with a mix of curiosity and apprehension.

“You are in dire need of a good dose of discipline.” I open my mouth to respond, but his grasp on my chin tightens.

“When the shop closes, your ass is mine. Understood?” I nod as best as I can with his hold on me.

“No. I want words, Wren. When I ask you a question, I expect you to answer with your mouth.” Zane releases my chin but stays in my personal space.

“Now, I’ll ask again. Do you understand your ass is mine tonight?” he challenges.

“I-I understand,” I murmur.

“Oh, you’re going to look so good bent over my knee.

I’ll have you singing all night, my little songbird,” he smirks, trailing the back of his hand along my face.

An electric thrill of anticipation zips through my body.

He leans down, coating my neck in his warm breath.

“Now, get to work.” His lips graze my ear for the briefest of moments before he backs away, leaving me there to wonder what the fuck just happened.

Zane’s lips, like a whispered secret, ignite curiosity and desire.

I’m left suspended—wondering, questioning, but mostly craving more.