Shifter’s Baby (Alpha Fantasy Paranormal Billionaire Shifter BBW Romance) (13 page)

A car and driver were waiting for Kevin when he landed. He had a 4-bedroom cottage on the beach in Malibu, which he used about a dozen times a year. He had business in California and tired of staying in hotels when he was in town. Kevin was looking forward to a hot shower and a jog on the beach because it had been a busy 24-hour.

He stepped into his marble shower stall, which faced the Pacific Ocean. Ten Jets provided a deluge of water that reached every sore muscle in his body. Even with roomy first-class seats, his body ached after four hours on a plane. Kevin was only 31 and if he was sore after a short flight, he feared thinking how he would feel in ten years or even 20. He made a mental note to add yoga to his regimen. He heard it did wonders and he could get a hot instructor, which would help motivate him. He toweled off and called his assistant in New York so he could find out where the hell he had to be next.

“Hey Karen. In case, you forgot, I’m in LA.”

“I don’t forget anything Kev. That’s why you keep me onboard despite that I’m not a leggy blonde.”

Karen was his first assistant, whom he had to share with six other bond traders. She had gotten him out of several situations in both his personal and professional lives. As he moved up the ladder, he pulled Karen with him.

“You’re so much more than a set of gams to me Karen. Shoot me my schedule today. I have a shitload of paperwork to do and contacts I have to make but I know I have an important lunch.” Kevin thought for a moment. “Karen, I also want you to send some flowers for me and shoot out a thank you to Fuller for dinner the other night.”

“I’ve already sent the thank-you; handwritten of course. You also want to send him flowers; isn’t that over-the-top for a stiff 70 year old Englishman?”

“The flowers are for his daughter Meghan.”

“The pen wasn’t enough?”

“No. This woman is special. Make it tasteful with a touch of whimsy.”

“Will do. Next time you loan me your beach house, I’ll have Darren paint over the Picassos my kids did on the wall. The twins were quiet and I didn’t realized they were coloring on your wall until it was too late.”

“No matter Karen. I don’t ever go into that room and you are the only person who ever stays here besides me. Who knows, maybe your gremlins will be artists someday and their scribbling will be worth something.”

“O.K. boss get to work and I’ll send flowers. I can’t wait to get details about Meghan; this should be a good one. What should the card say?”

Kevin and Meghan were playing a game for now so he thought of something that would make her smile. “Tag, your it! Kevin”.

“You got it. You’ll get an email soon.”

****

Kevin dressed for his meeting, which was about making contact with the client. He was helping people make money and in the process making boatloads of money himself. He used a car and driver in New York but in LA, he liked to rent a convertible. The sun on his face was therapeutic after spending months in New York. Meghan had been on his mind all day, which was an odd feeling for a confirmed bachelor or playboy as some liked to say. Lexi would be a good distraction so Kevin dialed his phone.

“Hey Babe. I hope your calendar is cleared.”

“I knew you were coming and I’m already at the house. I have a sensational dress for dinner tonight and I’m sunning on your deck; getting rid of those pesky tan lines.”

“I’ll be there in a bit. I have some business to finish up and then I’ll join you on the deck.”

“Do you happen to remember what tonight is?” Lexi asked.

“No but I’m sure you’re going to remind me.”

“We met two months ago so it’s our anniversary. We’ll celebrate the day you were running on the beach and saw me coming out of the water. You said I was like a mermaid and the answer to your prayers. I can’t wait until you get home.”

“Yup. See you soon Lexi.” Kevin hung up and banged his head against the steering wheel. What was the deal with women calling his place their home and bringing up ridiculous anniversaries? Lexi was an exotic beauty from Brazil but it was Meghan from London that he couldn’t get out of his mind.

He stopped to get a nice bottle of wine to share with Lexi on the beach. While he was in the liquor store, he was admiring the bottles of whisky because they reminded him of Meghan. She ordered a Manhattan on the first night they met. There had never been a woman who remained on his thoughts the way she did. He slid back into his Jag and noticed his phone blinking. Kevin checked his messages.

“Lovely flowers. Thank you. I spoke with Nadine downstairs and you’d think you hung the moon. My door attendant has a crush on you. I’m still trying to figure you out. You left me with a great deal to think about Kevin. I’ll seek you out when you get back to the right coast. Bye”

Kevin couldn’t erase the smile from his face as he listened to Meghan’s message ½ dozen times on the way back to Malibu. For the first time in his adult life, Kevin Leahy wanted something he couldn’t buy.

****

Lexi was wearing only a thong bikini bottom when Kevin walked through the door.

“Happy anniversary honey!” She said in her sultry voice, which was not nearly as captivating as Meghan’s British accent. “It looks as if I’ll be in LA full-time for the next six months. I hope you’ll be in town because I’ve arranged to stay here. It’s close to the studio where I’ll be filming.”

“You made plans for my house without checking first?”

Lexi frowned. “Don’t be a downer Kevin. I thought you’d be happy that we can spend more time together. I know it’s been tough as my schedule has been so crazy and you couldn’t depend on me. All that will change with this series of commercials I’ve picked up.

Kevin hated to lie to Lexi but he panicked. “Lex, the house has already been promised to my assistant and her family. Her husband has been relocated to the area and I told them it was theirs for the next six months. You can see in the back bedroom that the kids have already made this place theirs. They’ve been drawing on the wall.” He hated the look of disappointment on Lexi’s face but he continued. “In addition, I won’t be here as much. Surrey has done some shuffling of clients and my biggest one will be going to someone else.”

“Are you dumping me Kevin?” Lexi crossed her arms over her voluptuous chest that some former boyfriend purchased for her.

“No Lexi. I still want dinner tonight and I’m thrilled about your commercials but it just won’t work out long-term.” Kevin was waiting for her inevitable response.

“You took two months of my time and love that I’ll never get back. How are you going to make that up to me?”

“I’ll take care of you Lexi. Money isn’t a problem.”

Lexi wiped away her crocodile tears. Her acting lessons that Kevin paid for were coming in handy. “That cheers me up a little bit. The rent for a place on the beach like this will be pricey. I had planned on a trip for us to Maui, which I’ll have to cancelled and you know I’ll be hit hard with fees.

“I can’t tell you how sorry I am. You must be exhausted from the trauma I have caused. I’ll understand if you want to head home and call it a night.” Kevin had his fingers crossed that Lexi would leave.

Lexi sniffed. “I’ll leave my bank info and my attorney’s number on the table. You may want to talk to him about tax implications and what would be a fair settlement.”

Lexi threw on a dress and kissed Kevin goodbye. He was sure it was not the first time a man had paid her to leave. Since when did casual girlfriends get a settlement? Kevin hopped in the hot tub with his pinot and one glass. He pressed play on his phone and listened to Meghan’s message again.

Kevin was exhausted when he walked into his penthouse after a week in LA. Karen always came by before he was going to be home. She sorted the mail and made sure there was something to eat in the refrigerator. He saw a letter from the president at Surrey, which was sent overnight and signed for by Simon. Letters mailed in the post from the president were top priority and very good news or the opposite. He was about to open it when he found Karen dancing with earbuds in her ears as she prepared a meal. She had no idea Kevin was home.

“You’ve got some moves going on there Karen.”

Karen jumped.

“You scared the hell out of me Kevin. I must have lost track of time.”

“Doesn’t bother me. It’s refreshing to come home to a woman who’s fully clothed.”

“You’re like a brother to me Kevin. Tone it down when talking about your latest conquests.”

“Sorry Karen.” He ate a popover as they came out of the oven. “I’m taking a break from chasing women; at least most women. I have enough money to last a lifetime but I feel like I’m getting a bad deal.”

“How so Kev?”

“I’m paying for boob jobs, rhinoplasty’s, acting lessons and the list goes on. I can’t keep track of all their birthdays and when I miss one I have to make up for it. That’s usually 10K at the jewelers.”

“How sad for you,” Karen said with a note of sarcasm.

“I met someone that I think of when I’m not with her. She’s an interesting person with ideas and values.”

“She has to be somewhat attractive to hold your attention. I know you Kevin.”

“Meghan Fuller’s beautiful and she has her own money. She’s wealthier than I am.”

“Let me know if I can help but I’d be careful. Nelson Fuller’s an important man with the power to squash you like a bug.” Karen looked at the clock. “Gotta run. I have to make dinner for my family.”

“Thanks for doing this Karen.”

“I enjoy cooking in your penthouse. The kitchen is bigger than my entire house and I fantasize that it’s my own. Oh well – girl can dream.”

Kevin picked at the meal Karen made. His mouth was full when there was a knock on his door. He thought it was either Karen who had forgotten something or Juliet because she did still have a key. Wearing only boxers, he answered the door.

“Hello!” Kevin was pleasantly surprised when he opened the door to see Meghan.

“Told you I’d seek you out. You’re not the only one with connections in this city. I found out which flight was yours. I thought I’d give you time to relax,” she looked him Up and down, “before dropping by unannounced.”

“Unannounced indeed. I’m barely dressed.”

“I’m here Kevin because we should stop this game of chasing each other. I have a boyfriend who is a nice guy but I’m with him to piss off my father. It’s working but it’s getting tedious. You have many girlfriends in various ports of call.”

Kevin stared at her because he was blown away by her honesty. He was also taken by her beauty, which increased each time he saw her. She was wearing jeans and a crisp white blouse

Meghan continued. “I think it’s obvious that we’re attracted to one another. My behavior in the restaurant and the kiss you planted on me, as you left the other night were proof. I propose we spend 24-hours together and see what kind of trouble we can get into. What’d ya say?”

“Let me get this straight. You’re asking me out on a date that will last full 24-hours.”

“Yes, do you accept?”

“When do we start?”

“Why not now. I don’t need any fancy preparation because I’m not like the other women but I think you know that already. This will let me catch you off-guard without a head start to make reservations or plan a romantic seduction.” Meghan walked out the door and returned with a small suitcase.

“What’s that?” Kevin was intrigued.

“It’s not what you’d hope. I don’t have sexy lingerie or sex toys in here but my stuff for morning yoga, books and my favorite Earl Grey tea.”

“Very romantic Meg.”

She shot him a severe look. “One thing you should know; I despise being called Meg. Only my brothers use the moniker and I don’t want to start thinking of you as a sibling.”

“You underestimate me in that you think I can’t pull off a romantic seduction on a moment’s notice. I’ll call my favorite spot in mid-town and we’ll have the best table in the house.”

Meghan grabbed his cell phone from the counter and his pile of mail. She locked it in her suitcase along with his laptop and tablet. “I’m putting you on a technology fast. No screens or any type of communication for 24-hours. I grew up with my father at the helm of Surrey and I know that anything can wait one day. You only think it can’t but the world will survive without you.”

“But Meghan; I have a letter.”

Meghan gave Kevin a light slow kiss on the lips, silencing his protests. He was about to have a splendid or miserable 24-hours.

Meghan kicked off her black boots and collapsed on Kevin’s plush couch. Kevin was quick to join her and started rubbing her feet.

“This is what I’m talking about Kevin. Men tend to go straight for the breasts when women respond better if you start at the bottom and work your way up.”

“Am I allowed to work my way up?”

Meghan squealed as he tickled her foot. “Yes, do you even have to ask?”

Kevin loosened her belt revealing her taught belly. “I wasn’t sure because you seem to have rules for everything.”

“After we eat something you can have your way with me Kevin. Is there any food in this palace?”

“As a matter of fact I made a pot of scallop chowder and fresh popovers. I’ll serve you a salad first with some homemade dressing with truffle infused olive oil.”

“Another rule; no lies. Who really made the meal? If it was one of your bimbos, I’ll understand; just tell me.”

“Wow, you’re tough. Karen made it as she always makes sure I have a meal waiting when I come home from a business trip.”

“Nice. I hope Karen the trollop doesn’t pop in tonight. That would be awkward.”

“She’s with Darren, James and Brendan. Probably making them a quick meal before bedtime.”

“Yuck. A foursome? What kind of women are you spending time with?” Meghan asked in disgust.

“Karen is my assistant. She’s married to Darren and has twin boys. She takes care of me, which reminds me; I don’t pay her enough. Karen’s paid through Surrey but I take care of her personally as well.”

“Sorry, I shouldn’t jump to conclusions and chowder by the fire sounds divine. You do have a fireplace?”

Kevin reached for the remote that Meghan didn’t grab when she was locking up his gadgets and tuned on four fireplaces with the touch of a button. There was one in the kitchen, living room, master bedroom and bathroom. “Does that answer your question?” Kevin smiled.

Meghan created a nest out of blankets in front of the fire. Pillows were abundant and most of them had never been used. Kevin enjoyed the modern appeal and clean lines of his penthouse but it had never been a cozy spot as it was now. With Meghan, it became a place he never wanted to leave.

“I broke the rule and told a lie,” Meghan said as she scraped the bottom of her bowl. “I told you I didn’t bring sexy lingerie. Don’t get excited because it’s not crotch less panties or edible undies. I brought something black and silky.”

Kevin’s eyes popped. “I like black and silky. You’ll find the master bedroom to the left. Can’t wait.”

Meghan stunned Kevin with her beauty. Her red hair cascaded down her shoulders, which was in sharp contrast to her negligee. He removed it slowly, one shoulder at a time. Her porcelain skin and the graceful curve of her neck led to perfect breasts, which were natural. It was a rare delight for Kevin to be with a woman who had not been under a surgeon’s knife. Steam covered the skylights as their bodies rose and fell in unison. Meghan and Kevin created a perfect lovers fit of tongue and groove perfection.

****

“Shit.”

“What’s up Kevin?” Meghan mumbled still half asleep in their nest in front of the fire. The sun was just beginning to rise.

“Our 24- hour date. I don’t want to sleep one more minute than necessary. If last night was any indication, being with you is better than sleep.” Kevin started to pull away the sheets in which she was twisted.

“Not so fast Kevin. We proved we have it going on physically. Let’s see if we still get along after spending the day together.”

“Oh. I haven’t done that with a woman since high school. What do we do first?”

“Coffee would be nice and a morning stretch. I’ll put some clothes on and you grab the coffee.”

Meghan slipped into her yoga pants and a tank top while Kevin went into the kitchen. He looked at her small suitcase that was in the foyer. He wanted to read the letter from Caulfield at Surrey. He knew he wasn’t dismissed from his position but he was curious. He walked over and attempted to open it but it was locked. Meghan appeared behind him.

“If you can’t give me 24–hours than this little experiment is over. I proposed that we spend time together so I could see what kind of man you are. We had an obvious spark, which I’ll extinguish if all you care about is business and your goddamn phone.”

Kevin was wrong and he knew it. Whatever was in the letter could wait until the end of the day. He looked at Meghan apologetically. “How do you take your coffee?”

“Black but I prefer tea. Do you have bagels?”

“No. I usually skip breakfast.”

“Unacceptable. Didn’t your Mother ever tell you it was the most important meal of the day?”

“She did and it’s about the only thing that she told me that I don’t do. Nancy Leahy. She was a brilliant, kind, loving – can’t really come up with enough superlatives to describe her.” Kevin didn’t say it but Meghan was a lot like his mother.

“Is your Mom still alive?” Meghan asked softly.

“No. She died the year I graduated college. She had breast cancer and managed to live to see me graduate from Stanford. When she died, I feel like the good part of me died with her. Business, accumulating wealth, using women as objects.” Kevin’s voice trailed off. “They all mattered more than the things she taught me. Dear old Dad encouraged me.”

“What about him?”

“He’s on a yacht somewhere off Monaco with a woman half his age.” Kevin realized he had no clothes on as he was telling his life story to Meghan in his marble foyer. “I’ll get that tea now and grab a robe. I’m freezing.”

Kevin and Meghan did yoga as the sun rose in New York City. Kevin had never taken yoga seriously but Meghan was devoted to the practice. The absence of the ringing phone and the beeping computer was blissful. Meghan ran into Simon on the way to Kevin’s penthouse and asked that all visitors be sent away unless there was an emergency. After Meghan and Kevin stretched like rubber bands, they showered. Like his house in Malibu, he had numerous jets and a great view. One-way glass gave them privacy from any gawkers from nearby high-rises. They lingered under the pulsating warm water until their fingertips were like prunes.

After they showered, Kevin and Meghan walked through Central Park and picked up bagels. Meghan convinced Kevin to go to the museum. The paintings were amazing as she described them in detail and he was awed by her knowledge on a subject he knew nothing about. He had lived in New York for more than five years and never taken the time to enjoy it. His world was the bond market and women. In many ways, he was opening his eyes for the first time.

They shared a hot dog from a vendor in front of the museum when Kevin realized their 24-hours was ending.

“You stole my phone and I’m not wearing a watch but I can tell by the position of the sun that our date is almost over.”

“We still have dinner Kev.”

“We’ll swing by my place so we can dress. I’ll ask Simon to make reservations for us.”

“We’re in New York City. Pizza is in order and I know of a great place. Are you up for sharing a pitcher of beer?”

“I’m not one to turn down pilsner and a greasy slice.”

She linked her arm around his and they walked to dinner. There was no discussion of how things would be for them in the future but it was apparent neither wanted the day to end. After Meghan and Kevin ate dinner, they walked to his Penthouse.

“I’ll arrange for a car to take you home if you insist on going.”

“That was the deal Kevin. We passed the compatibility test with flying colors.”

“I think we scored perfect 10’s” Kevin smiled.

“That was the easy part. Our situation is complicated with my father. Your reputation as a ladies man is not what he has in mind for his daughter.”

“We’ll talk after we both have time to think it over. Today was the best day I’ve had – ever. Anything that comes next is secondary to what we have.”

Megan unlocked her suitcase, giving Kevin back his toys and pile of mail. This time she gave him a memorable kiss goodbye.

Kevin Leahy had rarely been as relaxed and happy as Meghan Fuller made him feel. It was a feeling he wanted more of. Before he got a chance to open his mail, he fell asleep in the nest of blankets in front of the fireplace. Her scent lingered and he had pleasant dreams.