Open Wounds (Damaged Souls Book 2) (7 page)

“Did we just arrive in Stepford? Holy crap!” Lexi exclaimed nervously.

“I wouldn’t doubt it,” Sloan said with a frown. “I grew up in this type of environment, and I still feel out of place.”

Lexi reached over and squeezed his hand as they pulled up to a huge circle driveway, behind several fancy cars. Guys in black dress slacks, white shirts, and red vests came up to each car to help the guests out and take their keys. Then they drove off to some unknown destination.

“Oh jeez, they have valet?” Lexi asked bewildered.

“Would you really expect anything less, driving through this neighborhood?” Sloan asked, looking at her with a raised eyebrow.

“No, I guess not.” Lexi shook her head in wonder.

When it was their turn, Sloan pulled up to the grand covered entrance, and two valets came up to the Mustang and opened their doors. As one valet helped Lexi out of the car, Sloan handed the keys to the other. Lexi walked around the front of the car and took Sloan’s proffered arm.

“Well, at least the Mustang doesn’t stick out too badly, next to all these luxury cars. Once my aunt got it restored, it turned out to be worth nearly the same price as all these newer cars.” Lexi said, looking back at the procession of cars that were behind them. “Nearly.” She qualified as she looked at a Bentley pulling up.

“But yours is tougher, too. And by tougher, I mean cooler, faster
and
the fender alone would annihilate the thin metal on the cars they make today.” Sloan grinned down at her, his bluish gray eyes sparkling.

Looking up as they walked to the doors of the house, Lexi saw that it was a sandstone two-story European-style home. It was beautiful but didn’t seem as enormous as the other homes in the community. That was until they walked in. She realized the house was deceiving from the front.

Lexi’s mouth gaped open in awe at the opulence of the home. In front of them were two arcing staircases that met in the middle upstairs. With a huge sparkling chandelier hanging from the high cathedral ceiling in the middle.

More staff appeared out of nowhere with a tray of champagne and pointed them in the direction of where they needed to go.

“Holy guacamole! Who lives here?!” Lexi loudly whispered.

Sloan shrugged his shoulders in response. As they walked towards the back of the fancy house, they both felt completely out of place. They stepped out of the open French doors, onto the patio of the biggest backyard Lexi had ever seen. Several guests mingled on the patio in gowns, extravagant jewels, and tuxedos. And it wasn’t long before they found out whose home it was.

Aaron Grace, Lexi’s blind date from a few weeks back walked up to them, resplendent in a perfectly tailored tuxedo. His caramel skin looked smooth as silk, and his hair was cut close into a perfect fade, the top brushed into perfect waves. And he smiled radiantly at her. His perfect white teeth almost blinding. His perfection made Lexi cringe inwardly.

Sloan recognized him instantly. It would be a long time before he got the image of the handsome man helping Lexi into his fancy sports car for their date, out of his head. Sloan stood a little straighter as the man stopped in front of them.

“Lexi! It’s so good to see you. I’m glad you could make it under such short notice.” Aaron greeted her, leaning down to softly kiss her cheek.

Lexi instantly tensed at the affectionate greeting, and at the animosity radiating from Sloan’s entire being. “Uh…hey, Aaron. It’s nice to see you too.” Lexi returned politely if not a little strained.

When the handsome lawyer had come up to them, he purposefully stepped up to Lexi, positioning his back partially to Sloan. A clear insult, indicating he was not important. Lexi could feel Sloan bristling at the rude move. So, she stepped in to diffuse the situation before it became a problem. She turned Aaron towards Sloan before she started introductions.

“Aaron, I’d like to introduce you to Sloan. My contractor and…and-”

“Boyfriend.” Sloan interrupted, holding out his hand to the other man.

“Nice to meet you, Sloan,” Aaron said insincerely, taking Sloan’s hand.

They both sized each other up, in the few seconds that ticked by. To Lexi, it felt like several minutes went by, as the men gripped hands tightly and pumped up and down, in what looked more like an arm wrestling match, than a handshake.

Unfortunately for Aaron, Sloan beat him in the war of wills. Aaron’s muscular physique was developed in a gym. Whereas Sloan’s was built from years in the Marines, and now quite a few weeks of serious manual labor. The pencil pusher couldn’t compete against a trained soldier. So Aaron released Sloan’s hand and discreetly flexed his hand a couple times, trying to get back the circulation, without anyone noticing. He smiled tightly at Sloan and then delivered a blow that Sloan could not compete with.

“Well anyway, I hope you enjoy the wedding. I’m acting as the best man and the host. This is my home. So if there’s anything you need, feel free to ask me or the staff. The ceremony will begin in about fifteen minutes. Enjoy.” Aaron said, with a final slow distasteful look, up and down Sloan’s formal yet casual look, before kissing Lexi on the cheek again and turning on his heel, striding away.

“Well, that answers that,” Sloan grumbled under his breath.

“Answers what?” Lexi asked curiously, glad the tense exchange was over.

“Who owns the house?” Sloan said grumpily.

“Oh,,,” Lexi said softly. “Well…it is a little over the top. No one needs this much house. Especially a single man.” Lexi said, trying to make Sloan feel less inadequate as she looked up at the monster house that appeared twice as big from the back.

“Apparently he’s looking to change his relationship status.” Sloan smiled grimly down at her.

“You don’t have anything to worry about Sloan. I’m here…with
you
. There’s no one’s arm I’d rather be on.” Lexi soothed sweetly.

“Come on. Let’s go find a seat.” Sloan said, feeling disheartened and unable to shake the sense of impending doom.

They walked across the huge patio that boasted a beautiful pool and lounge chairs. Then they stepped down a wide set of stone steps that lead to the perfectly manicured lawn, where rows of pristine white seats with pretty blue bows tied around them, were lined up. A white runner ran down the middle of the rows of chairs, leading towards the fanciest gazebo that Lexi hand ever seen. It had beautiful white Grecian pillars and a rod-iron dome top in a swirling design.

They took their seats in the back row, leaving the closer rows for family and close friends. It took a few minutes for the sharply dressed mingling guests to get themselves seated. Once everyone was situated, a little musical quartet that Lexi hadn’t even noticed, began to play a lovely song that Lexi realized was
All of Me
. As the bridesmaids started their procession down the aisle towards the gazebo on the opposite side of the groomsmen. Then the quartet
switched from the soothing melody into the classic wedding march. Everyone looked back, and at the top of the steps stood Dom and her father.

Seeing the beautiful bride, everyone stood up. She was stunning in an ivory mermaid style gown. Her father helped her down the stairs and down the aisle. And looking at the groom, it was hard for anyone not to get teary-eyed. Seeing the tall, handsome dark skinned man beam with pride and look upon his bride with glassy tear-filled eyes, was enough to make a hardened criminal weep.

Sloan looked down at Lexi as she discreetly wiped a tear from her cheek. His soul smiled, knowing it had found its mate. And as all the guests sat down once the ceremony began, he leaned over and kissed her softly on the temple.

Lexi turned and smiled bashfully at him, embarrassed that she had been caught crying. Sloan reached out, lifted her chin with his index finger and kissed her gently on the lips. His kiss was an affirmation to her, letting her know that he was hers, and she was his.

When I’m able to fully stand on my own two feet again and able to support you, you
will
be my wife. That, I promise you.
Sloan stated firmly in his mind. And the look of understanding that dawned on Lexi’s face, from his unspoken words, made him smile deeper as he winked at her.

Turning back to watch the ceremony taking place, Sloan locked eyes with Aaron, who was watching them instead of the couple of honor next to him. The muscle in his jaw ticked, and he looked at Sloan with contempt. Sloan nodded his head, in silent acknowledgment. And Aaron raised a brow ever so slightly and imperceptibly nodded back at Sloan.

Challenge accepted.

Chapter 7

The Way You Look Tonight

After the ceremony, the catering staff came out in full force with hors d’oeuvres and more champagne to hold over the guests. It gave the wedding party time to take photos, and the rest of the staff to quickly remove the chairs for the ceremony, and replaced them with the tables, chairs and ivory tents for the reception. The guests milled about restlessly for dinner to begin.

Lexi and Sloan kept to themselves, not really sure how to work their way into conversation with the other guests. Until Dom emerged glowing and radiant in white, ready to mingle and introduce them to everyone.

“Lexi! Sloan! I’m so glad you both could make it. You two look good enough to eat!” Dom nearly screeched when she saw them, as she pulled her new husband in their direction.

“Hey, Dom! Thanks and congratulations! You look lovely. You make such a beautiful bride.” Lexi smiled brightly at her.

“Thanks, Lexi! So you remember Tony, of course?” Dom asked, hugging the tall man’s arm.

“Of course. Hi, Tony. You look amazing too. And this is my b-boyfriend, Sloan. Sloan, this is Tony.” Lexi introduced, still hesitant to put a label on their relationship.

“Hey, Sloan. Nice to meet you.” Tony reached out a hand to Sloan.

“Same here, Tony,” Sloan said accepting the offered hand, and they shook courteously. “Thanks for inviting us. And congratulations, you both make a beautiful couple.” Sloan said politely.

“Thank you, Sloan. Oh my gosh! Honey, wait until you see what Sloan is doing to that old cottage! It’s amazing. In fact, there are some people that I want to introduce you to before the reception starts.” Dom burst out and started pulling Sloan towards a group of people.

Sloan held onto Lexi’s arm for dear life, pulling her along with them. Tony chuckled as he looked on, knowing his tenacious bride all too well. And Lexi could tell that the blushing bride was in full Demanding Dom mode. There was no stopping her now. Once an idea popped into the realtor’s head, she latched onto it like a dog with a bone.

But Lexi had to admit that Dom was good at what she does. By the time the reception officially started, Sloan had the names and numbers of several interested parties programmed into his new phone, as well as three definite commissions set up for after he was done with her house. And Lexi, herself had gained interest for her artwork, from almost all of the guests they had been introduced to. All of them wanting to know when and where the art show would be held. Which, of course, Dom handled smoothly. Giving them the status of the upcoming event, and promising to update them and send out invitations with the finalized date, time and venue when she knew for sure.

In the end, she had Sloan looking like a master craftsmen, like Bob Villa and Lexi, the next Pablo Picasso. She knew exactly how to play to wealthy society’s weaknesses. Each one of them wanting to be the first to get their home remodeled by Stryker Construction & Renovations or to get their hands on an Alexis Bolden original.

When the reception officially started, their table ended up begin the most popular table there. In between the big moments, like the first dance and cutting the cake, guests were coming and going from their table trying to get information about their work. Those whom they had spoken to before the reception, started spreading the word to others, and Lexi and Sloan became the unsuspecting power couple of the evening.

Sloan was contracted to do more jobs. And some just wanted tips on how to make small changes to a room in their home. Lexi was asked over and over again if she was willing to do paintings outside of the ones she was doing for the art show. And when she told them yes, she was inundated with business cards and phone numbers programmed into her phone, with requests for personal paintings.

When there was finally a lull in the commotion around them, all the guests finally more interested in the open bar than the new popular couple, Sloan and Lexi looked at each other for a moment. They both exhaled deeply and slumped in their chairs in mental exhaustion. Huge matching smiles plastered on their faces.

“We did it.” Lexi sighed.

“I think we have enough work to keep us busy for the next five years.” Sloan shook his head in wonder. “I forgot the power of competition between the rich. But I guess it works for us.” Sloan ended on a smirk.

“Mm hmm,” Lexi mumbled, unable to think hard enough to form a proper sentence.

“Was the gift we brought good enough? ‘Cause with all the work Dom just sent our way, I feel as if we should be paying for their honeymoon or something.” Sloan half-joked.

“The gift is definitely pretty good, but I don’t know if it was as good as what she’s done for us. Sheesh! I’m tired, just thinking about all the work we’re about to do.” Lexi sighed, her beaming smile contradicting her words.

“Well, how about we stop thinking for a little while and just…dance,” Sloan said, extending a hand in invitation.

“Alright,” Lexi said shyly, taking his hand.

Sloan led her out onto the temporary dance floor. He spun her out and then back into his arms. The sheer layers of her red dress fluttered around her prettily. Other guests stopped what they were doing for a moment to look at the dancing couple, as the strains of
The Way You Look Tonight
floated down from the large band. The lead singer making Frank Sinatra proud.

Not many of the guests, being from the south, would normally look favorably upon a couple of mixed race, but there was something undeniable about the couple that drew their eye. The gorgeous and striking scarred man that looked at the beautiful and shy artist, with eyes filled with reverence and adoration. They both seemed unsure of themselves but looked to the other for strength. The chemistry between them was evident, which made it hard for many at the reception to stop from staring at the lovely couple. Some looked on with happiness for the pair. Others gazed upon them with raw jealousy.

Sloan held Lexi flush against him with one arm, and the other held her arm out to the side. The position was perfect for leading her around the dance floor. Lexi was used to slow dancing while standing in one spot. But Sloan glided, turned and twisted and twirled her around the dance floor like he was Fred Astaire leading Ginger Rogers.

“I had no idea you could dance like this!” Lexi said breathlessly as he pulled her back in from a spin.

“I wouldn’t be a properly raised high society, southern gent if I hadn’t learned how to dance. It has been a convenient skill that was drilled into me so that I can seduce beautiful women such as yourself.” Sloan teased, deepening his drawl. He caressed a thumb across her cheek as he held her close.

“Well, it’s working. If you weren’t holding me up right now, I’d be a puddle of seduced mush.” Lexi grinned up at him.

“Then my work here is done. My parents forcing me to take dance lessons has finally paid off.” Sloan joked, never missing a beat as the skilled band took the previous song and blended it perfectly into
Cheek to Cheek
.

“I was wondering, are you a junior? Or a third? It just seems as if wealthy families like to add Roman numerals to the end of their first sons’ names.” Lexi asked curiously.

“No, I’m actually the second son. I would have had an older brother, but he died at birth. But they did name him Nathaniel Charles Stryker III before they buried him. So you’re definitely right. Instead they gave me Nathaniel as a middle name, to honor him and the other men in our family.” Sloan explained.

“I’m sorry, Sloan. I had no idea.” Lexi said sadly.

“Oh don’t worry about it. I didn’t know him, so all I’ve known is being an only child. Though, it would’ve been great for him to have lived for many reasons. Least of which would be so that he could’ve taken over the business, and my parents would’ve eased up on me to take over. I could’ve been the bratty younger sibling that got to be the free spirit.” Sloan chuckled reluctantly.

“You didn’t turn out so bad. It’s on your parents if they’re not proud of you because you’re a great man in my opinion.” Lexi complimented him bashfully.

“Thanks.” Sloan blushed from the neckline of his t-shirt to the roots of his dark hair. “How about we take a break and get something to drink,” Sloan suggested as the song came to an end.

“Alright,” Lexi said, and with Sloan’s hand at her back to guide her off the dance floor they stopped and turned, noticing all the eyes that were on them.

They both flushed, completely embarrassed at the interest they drew. They had been so wrapped up in each other that they hadn’t realized they were the center of attention. They scurried over to the bar to hide from curious eyes, as fast as Lexi’s heels would allow.

“Well, that was awkward,” Lexi stated, cringing slightly.

“Agreed. I guess people can’t resist my dance moves.” Sloan joked, trying to ease Lexi’s discomfiture.

Before Lexi could respond, a stunning tall blonde woman in a gorgeous, sophisticated cornflower blue dress that matched her eyes walked up and tapped Sloan on the arm. Sloan turned, and the look of shock that came across his face was almost comical.

“Sloan Stryker!? I knew it was you! Oh my God, it’s been years since I’ve seen you!” The woman pulled him into a tight affectionate hug. Lexi just looked on with raised eyebrows, not sure how to feel yet.

“Victoria?” Sloan said hesitantly. “Uh…wow! It has been a while.” Sloan pulled away quickly, from her friendly embrace. “So…this is my girlfriend, Alexis Bolden. Alexis, this is my old friend Victoria Sinclair.” Sloan introduced awkwardly.

“Nice to meet you, Victoria.” Lexi reached out a hand politely.

“Nice to meet you too, I’m sure.” Victoria responded insincerely, reluctantly accepting Lexi’s hand to shake.

“Um, how is it that you know the bride and groom?” Sloan asked.

“Oh, well I’m not sure you know this since you’ve been away for so long. But I’m a lawyer now. And I met Aaron in law school, and we both were hired at the same law firm here. Though soon, I’ll become a partner at his new law firm. But anyway, he is best friends with the groom. And the bride helped me and Aaron find our homes. So we’ve all been hanging in the same social circles for years now.” Victoria babbled.

“Oh wow! Congratulations! I know your parents must be proud.” Sloan said genuinely.

“Yes, I think so. So what are you up to these days? You disappeared without a trace before I was even able to welcome you home from the war.” Victoria purred as she rubbed his arm affectionately.

“I’m a general contractor for home construction and renovations now. Alexis got me started back up again. She gave me a chance when no one else would.” Sloan said, squeezing Lexi’s hand and looking down at her with love shining in his eyes.

“Mm…how nice.” Victoria looked at them with jealousy coursing through her. “Well Alexis, did you know that Sloan and I were promised to each other when we were babies, by our parents.” Victoria brought up nonchalantly as if she was sharing secrets with a girlfriend. But Lexi knew better. She knew it was a warning. “But, unfortunately, Sloan ran off to play army and left me all alone.” Victoria finished on a pretty pout that Lexi wanted to slap off of her face.

“It wasn’t exactly like that, Alexis. My parents and Victoria’s parents are best friends. And they thought that if one had a girl and the other a boy that they would set them up to marry when they became adults. But this isn’t the eighteen-hundreds. There aren’t any contracts it was just something they hoped and pushed for.” Sloan explained, getting irritated with his ‘old friend’. “And it wasn’t the army, it was the Marines, Victoria. There’s a difference. And it definitely wasn’t playing. I’ve got the scars to prove it.” Sloan said grimly, as he tucked his hair behind his ear, fully showing his scars.

“Sorry, Sloan. No need to get all huffy about it.” Victoria replied snidely, pulling a face and raising her hands in surrender. “Well anyway Alexis, he was too busy playing the playboy, screwing anything in a skirt to be able to date me seriously. We took each other’s virginity and then he broke my heart, dumping me to screw the cheerleading squad.” Victoria blurted out, to the shock of both Sloan and Lexi.

“Jesus, Victoria!” Sloan burst out angrily. “Do you really think that this is an appropriate conversation to have right now?” Sloan practically growled, looking at the blonde like she had lost her mind.

“Jeez, sorry! I was just messing with you. I guess I should just keep my mouth closed, because apparently I keep putting my foot in my mouth.” Victoria rolled her eyes.

“Talking is fine. I’d just prefer it if you didn’t try to embarrass the hell outta me.” Sloan scowled darkly at her.

Nope, no. She was right the first time…she needs to shut the hell up!
Lexi thought uncharitably. And when she didn’t think the situation could get any worse or awkward, Aaron chose that moment to walk up.

“Hey, Victoria. Do you know these two?” Aaron asked, wrapping an arm around Victoria’s shoulders and giving her a playful squeeze.

“Hey, Aaron. Yes, Sloan is an old friend of the family. We go
way
back.” Victoria said, her tone filled with innuendo. “How do you know them?”

“Well, I just met Sloan today. But I met Lexi through Dom, and she promised to do some artwork for me. For the new office and here as well.” Aaron explained, looking down at Lexi with eyebrows raised in question.