Emily raised her shot glass, the cheap tequila sloshing dangerously close to the rim. "Another round for us ladies," she announced with a crooked grin. "Care to join, mystery man?"
Lucas' eyes crinkled with amusement as he regarded the two women. The dim bar lighting cast shadows across his rugged features, making him look even more intriguing. "Isn't it a bit odd, drinking with someone old enough to be your father?"
Emily's heart skipped a beat. Fuck, he was hot for an older guy. She tried to keep her cool, but her cheeks flushed traitorously.
Sophia, ever the wingwoman, jumped in with a smirk. "Odd isn't the word I'd use. More like... intriguing." She winked at Emily, who rolled her eyes.
Emily managed a shy smile, her gaze locked on Lucas. The tequila had loosened her up, but she still felt a flutter of nerves. What the hell was she doing, flirting with this guy? But after the week she'd had, she deserved a little fun.
"Age is just a number," Emily quipped, raising her glass. "You gonna drink or what, old man?"
Lucas chuckled, a deep, rich sound that sent tingles down Emily's spine. He reached for the shot glass, his fingers brushing hers. "Well, when you put it that way..."
They clinked glasses and tossed back the shots. Emily grimaced at the burn, but Lucas didn't even flinch. Damn, the man could hold his liquor.
A few shots later, Sophia leaned in close, her breath warm against Emily's ear. "Let's dance, babe."
Before Emily could protest, Sophia was tugging her off the barstool. Emily tossed an apologetic glance at Lucas. "I'll be back," she said, flashing a smile.
The bar's tiny dance floor was already packed with bodies moving to the pulsing rock beat. Emily let Sophia pull her into the crowd, the heat and press of strangers enveloping them.
Sophia's hips swayed as she raised her arms above her head, losing herself in the music. Emily tried to match her friend's carefree moves, but felt stiff and awkward.
"Loosen up!" Sophia shouted over the noise. She grabbed Emily's hands, twirling her in a circle.
Emily stumbled, nearly colliding with a burly biker. "Shit, sorry!" she yelled. The man just grinned and kept dancing.
As Sophia spun her again, Emily's eyes were drawn to the bar. Lucas sat motionless, his intense gaze fixed on her. Heat crept up her neck.
‘Why is he staring?’ Emily wondered. ‘Do I look that ridiculous?’
She forced herself to look away, focusing on Sophia instead. But her attention kept drifting back to those piercing blue eyes. With each twist and dip of her body, she felt Lucas tracking her movements.
‘Christ, get it together,’ Emily chided herself. ‘He's just some random dude at a bar.’
But as the song reached its crescendo, Emily found herself dancing with renewed energy. Her hips swayed more fluidly, her arms moved with grace. And each time she glanced at Lucas, a little thrill ran through her.
‘Fuck it,’ she thought. ‘Maybe I want him to watch.’
Emily's body swayed to the pulsing rhythm, her hips moving in time with the bass that reverberated through the smoky air of The Iron Horse. The cheap beer and shots coursed through her veins, dulling the ache in her chest and loosening her limbs. She felt Sophia's breath on her ear as her best friend leaned in close.
"What are you thinking, Em?" Sophia's voice was barely audible over the music.
Emily didn't respond, her gaze fixed on Lucas across the room. His piercing blue eyes hadn't left her since she stepped onto the dance floor, and a thrill ran through her at the intensity of his stare. She watched as he pushed off from the bar and made his way closer, his movements fluid and purposeful.
Fuck, he looks good, Emily thought, admiring the way his henley stretched across his broad chest. The odd greys in his hair caught the dim light, giving him an air of distinction that made her pulse quicken.
Lucas came to a stop at the edge of the dance floor, leaning casually against a nearby table. He took a long pull from his beer bottle, eyes never leaving Emily as she moved.
"Earth to Emily," Sophia said, snapping her fingers in front of Emily's face. "You're totally checked out. What's going on in that head of yours? Are you staring at Lucas still?"
Emily tore her gaze away from Lucas, meeting Sophia's concerned look. "Nothing. Just... enjoying the music."
Sophia arched an eyebrow, clearly not buying it. "Uh-huh. And I'm the Queen of England. You haven't taken your eyes off him all night."
"So what if I haven't?" Emily shot back, a hint of defiance in her tone. "I'm allowed to look, aren't I?"
"Hell yeah, you are," Sophia grinned, giving Emily a playful shove. "And from the way he's eye-fucking you right now, I'd say the feeling's mutual."
Emily felt her cheeks flush, a mix of embarrassment and arousal coursing through her. She snuck another glance at Lucas, her breath catching as their eyes met. He raised his beer in a subtle toast, the corner of his mouth lifting in a smirk that made her knees weak.
"Fuck it," Emily muttered, squaring her shoulders. "I'm going over there."
Sophia's eyes widened. "Wait, what?"
“You convinced me to introduce myself, Soph, I’m just following up on that,” Emily replied, already walking towards him, her steps fueled by liquid courage and a desperate need to feel something other than the pain of Ryan's betrayal. As she approached Lucas, she saw his eyes darken with interest.
"See something you like?" Emily asked boldly with a smile, coming to a stop in front of him.
Lucas' smirk widened. "I might be asking you the same question, darlin'."
The gravel in his voice sent shivers down Emily's spine. She leaned in close, the scent of leather and whiskey filling her senses. "And if I said yes?"
Lucas set his beer down, his large hand coming to rest on Emily's hip. "Then I'd say we should get out of here and find somewhere a little more... private."
Emily's heart raced, a mix of excitement and trepidation coursing through her. She knew this was reckless, potentially a huge mistake. But as she looked into Lucas' eyes, she found she didn't give a damn about the consequences.
"Well then, let’s go," she breathed, taking his outstretched hand.
The Iron Horse's heavy wooden door creaked open, letting in a gust of cool night air. Emily's head buzzed pleasantly from the alcohol as she stepped outside, Lucas close behind her. The scent of pine and sea salt mingled with the lingering traces of cigarette smoke and motor oil clinging to their clothes.
Suddenly, a blur of auburn curls rushed towards her. Sophia flung her arms around Emily's neck, nearly knocking her off balance.
"Em, you okay?" Sophia's warm breath tickled her ear. "Are you sure about this?"
Emily's heart swelled with affection for her best friend. Always looking out for her, even now. "I'm great, Soph. Promise I'll call you in the morning."
Sophia pulled back, her hazel eyes searching Emily's face. After a moment, she nodded and released her.
As Sophia melted back into the crowd, Emily turned to Lucas. His piercing blue eyes seemed to glow in the dim light of the street lamps. A thrill ran through her body as she met his gaze.
"My place is just around the corner," Emily said, surprising herself with her boldness. Fuck it, she thought. After the week she'd had, she deserved this.
Lucas' lips curled into a knowing smirk. He nodded, gesturing for her to lead the way.
As they walked down the cobblestone street, Emily's mind raced. What the hell am I doing? But the warmth of Lucas' presence beside her, the memory of his eyes on her as she danced, drowned out any doubts.
They reached the door of Emily's building. As she fumbled for her keys, Lucas stepped closer. The heat of his body sent a shiver down her spine.
"Last chance to change your mind," he said softly.
Emily turned, meeting his intense gaze. Her heart pounded in her chest. "Not a chance in hell," she replied, before pulling him inside.
Emily popped the caps off two beers, the familiar hiss and sharp scent filling her small kitchen. She handed one to Lucas with a coy smile, then hoisted herself onto the countertop."Cheers," she said, clinking her bottle against his. As Emily sipped the cold beer, she began unlacing her boots, hyper-aware of Lucas' eyes on her. The hem of her dress inched higher, revealing more of her thighs. As she bent to pull off her second boot, she felt Lucas move closer. When she looked up, he was standing between her parted knees, his piercing blue eyes locked on hers.Her heart raced. Fuck it, she thought. I deserve this.Without hesitation, Emily reached up and pulled Lucas into a searing kiss. He tasted of beer, his stubble was rough against her skin. As his strong hands gripped her waist, drawing her to the edge of the counter, a small voice in Emily's mind whispered a warning. But the heat of Lucas' body and the intoxicating rush of desire drowned it out completely.Lucas' lips crashed
Emily gasped as he tore the delicate fabric of her thong away. Her head fell back, exposing the pale column of her throat as Lucas' fingers slid inside her. Pleasure coursed through her body, igniting every nerve ending."You feel so good, baby girl," Lucas growled in her ear, his hot breath fanning across her skin. Emily's hips rocked against his hand instinctively. Her mind reeled, overwhelmed by sensation. This was reckless, desperate. But after the betrayal and heartbreak, she craved this raw connection."Please," she whimpered, not even sure what she was begging for. More? Less? To forget? To feel?Lucas curled his fingers, hitting a spot that made her cry out. "That's it, let go for me," he urged.Emily clutched at his shoulders, nails digging into taut muscle. The coarse hair on his chest scraped her sensitive skin as he leaned in closer. "Fuck," she hissed through clenched teeth. Heat coiled low in her belly, building to a crescendo. Her inner walls clenched around his fing
Emily's eyes fluttered open, squinting against the harsh morning light streaming through her curtains. Her head pounded, as mouth dry as sandpaper. As memories of the night before came flooding back, a mix of exhilaration and unease washed over her.She glanced at the muscular arm draped across her waist, following it to the ruggedly handsome face of Lucas, still peacefully asleep beside her. Emily's stomach did a little flip. ‘Shit,’ she thought. ‘What the hell did I do?’Part of her wanted to kick him out. But another part longed to stay wrapped in his strong arms, to feel that delicious ache between her thighs just a little longer.As if sensing her inner turmoil, Lucas stirred. He rolled towards her, one piercing blue eye cracking open. A slow, satisfied smirk spread across his face."Good morning, baby girl," he rumbled, voice husky with sleep. Emily's breath caught in her throat. "Morning," she managed to squeak out.Lucas propped himself up on one elbow, openly admiring her.
The mention of her ex-fiancé's name sent a pang through Emily's chest, but it didn't hurt as much as she'd expected. Maybe the tequila and mind-blowing sex had something to do with that. Or maybe she was finally starting to move on."Yeah, well," Emily shrugged, aiming for nonchalance. "It was just a one-night thing. No need to make a big deal out of it."Sophia raised an eyebrow. "Uh-huh. That's why you're grinning like an idiot and have his number saved as 'daddy' in your phone."Emily groaned, burying her face in her hands. "God, I'm never going to live this down, am I?""Not a chance in hell, baby girl," Sophia replied with a wink.Emily's cheeks flushed as Sophia's laughter echoed through the cozy living room. The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow on her friend's amused face."Oh my god, Em! How did he even bring that up?" Sophia wiped tears from her eyes, still giggling.Emily rolled her eyes, a smirk playing on her lips. "Well, if you must know..."
Emily's fingers tapped an irregular rhythm on the steering wheel as she navigated the winding coastal road. The salty breeze whipped through her open window, carrying the faint scent of fried food and engine oil from the nearby pier. "Jesus, my head is pounding," Sophia groaned from the passenger seat. "Remind me never to mix tequila and attempted pancakes again."Emily snorted. "At least we didn't burn down your kitchen. Small victories."She pulled into a parking spot near a row of gleaming motorcycles, their chrome accents catching the late morning sunlight. As they stepped out of the car, Emily's gaze lingered on the bikes. For a fleeting moment, she pictured herself on the back of one, arms wrapped around a broad-shouldered rider in a leather jacket. She shook her head, banishing the image."Earth to Em," Sophia called, already halfway to the cafe entrance. "You coming or what?"Emily jogged to catch up, her boots crunching on the gravel. "Yeah, yeah. Just... admiring the view."
Emily gripped the steering wheel, the salty breeze whipping through her hair as they cruised along the coastal road. Sophia's excited chatter filled the car."Ooh, you should totally get one of those lacy teddies! Or maybe a sheer babydoll with matching panties?" Sophia gushed, gesturing animatedly.Emily rolled her eyes. "Easy there, tiger. Let's find a dress first before we go through the Victoria's Secret catalogue.""Spoilsport," Sophia pouted. "Where's your sense of adventure?""Probably back at The Iron Horse, drowning in tequila," Emily muttered. Her head was still fuzzy from their earlier escapades, images of Lucas flashing unbidden through her mind. His smoldering gaze, those strong hands...Emily shook her head, refocusing on the road. Now was not the time to get distracted by thoughts of mysterious older men, no matter how devastatingly sexy."Earth to Emily!" Sophia waved a hand in front of her face. "Are you still with me? Or are you mentally undressing a certain daddy?"
As they entered Victoria's Secret, Emily was hit with a wave of floral perfume. Racks of lacy bras and skimpy panties surrounded them in a sea of pastels and jewel tones."So what are we thinking?" Sophia mused, fingering a sheer babydoll nightie. "Sweet and innocent or straight-up dominatrix?"Emily snorted. "How about something in between? I want to feel sexy but still like myself."She ran her hand over a silky emerald green bra, admiring the delicate lace trim. Maybe this could work...“Well, this is certainly not something I'd wear to the office."Sophia grinned, holding up a matching thong. "That's kinda the point, babe. You're not dressing for a board meeting."Emily snatched the delicate underwear, examining the intricate lace detailing. It was beautiful, she had to admit. And the emerald hue would complement her eyes. "Go on, try it on," Sophia urged, practically shoving Emily towards the dressing room.Behind the curtain, Emily slipped into the bra and thong, marveling at h
Emily sank into the warm, lavender-scented bathwater, letting out a contented sigh as the heat seeped into her muscles. She reached for her phone, careful not to let it slip into the tub.Emily: Just got in the bath. Still can't believe I'm doing this.Sophia: Girl, you deserve some fun! How are you feeling?Emily: Nervous as hell. Excited too. What if I fuck it up?Her stomach fluttered with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. Emily closed her eyes, trying to calm her racing thoughts.Sophia: You won't! He's clearly into you. Just be yourself.Emily: Easy for you to say. You're not the one probably about to get spanked by a hot stranger.She felt a rush of heat that had nothing to do with the bathwater. Memories of Lucas' hands on her body flashed through her mind.Sophia: OMG yes! Get it, girl! 🍑👋Emily: Christ, Soph. What am I doing?Sophia: Having fun! Live a little!Emily chewed her lip, conflicted. Part of her wanted to cancel, to retreat to the safety of her comfort zone. But
His hands roamed her body, exploring every curve and dip. He cupped her breasts, thumbs brushing over her nipples as she gasped."Fuck, you're gorgeous," Dan murmured, his voice rough with desire.Freya turned in his arms, pressing her back against his chest. "Less talking, more action, Sergeant," she commanded, guiding one of his hands lower.Dan chuckled, his fingers dipping between her thighs. "Yes, ma'am," he quipped, circling her clit with practiced precision.Freya's head fell back against his shoulder, her breath coming in short pants. "God, Dan," she moaned, her hips rocking against his hand.He held her close, his free hand roaming her body as he worked her towards the edge. The hot water pounded against them, adding
The acrid scent of antiseptic clung to Freya as she rapped her knuckles against Dan's door, exhaustion seeping into her bones. Twelve hours in the ER had left her scrubs spattered with an array of bodily fluids she'd rather not contemplate. All she wanted was a hot shower and Dan's strong arms around her.The door swung open, revealing Dan's warm smile. "Well hello there, Doctor Anderson. Rough day?"Freya let out a long sigh. "You have no idea. I swear, it's like the full moon brought out every idiot with a death wish in a fifty-mile radius."Dan chuckled, pulling her into a gentle embrace. "Come on in, I've got the shower all ready for you. Thought you might need it.""My hero," Freya murmured, breathing in his clean scent. God, how did he always smell so good?
The ER doors hissed open as Freya stumbled out, her scrubs spattered with an array of bodily fluids she'd rather not contemplate. She leaned against the cool brick wall, fishing her phone from her pocket."Fucking hell," she muttered, seeing the time. 9:12 PM. Her shift had stretched well past its scheduled end, as usual.Her fingers flew across the screen, composing a text to Dan:Freya: Just escaped. Unbelievably long day. Lost count of the idiots. Then another bloody car accident. Ready to pass out.She hit send, then closed her eyes, inhaling the crisp night air. It was a stark contrast to the antiseptic tang of the ER.Her phone buzzed.Dan:
Steam billowed around them as hot water cascaded over their entwined bodies. Freya's back pressed against the cool tile, a stark contrast to Dan's heated skin. His hands gripped her thighs, holding her steady as he thrust into her."Fuck," Freya gasped, her fingers tangling in his wet hair. Every movement sent sparks of pleasure coursing through her.Dan's lips trailed along her neck, teeth grazing her pulse point. "You feel amazing," he murmured against her skin.Freya's legs tightened around his waist, urging him deeper. She lost herself in the rhythm, the slick slide of their bodies, the building pressure low in her belly."Dan, I'm close," she whimpered, nails raking down his back.He groaned, hips snapping faster. "Come
Freya led Dan to her bedroom, her heart pounding. She grabbed an oversized t-shirt from her dresser, acutely aware of Dan's eyes on her."I'll just..." she gestured vaguely towards the bathroom.Dan nodded, a small smirk playing on his lips. "Take your time, Doc."In the bathroom, Freya quickly shed her shorts and hoodie, pulling the t-shirt over her head. She stared at her reflection, taking a deep breath. "Get it together, Anderson," she muttered.When she emerged, Dan was already in bed, his clothes neatly folded on a chair. The sight of his bare chest made her breath catch."You gonna stand there all night?" Dan teased, lifting the covers invitingly.Freya rolled her eyes, try
"You know," she murmured, snuggling closer, "maybe I won't fall asleep after all, it’s nice having someone to watch this stuff with.”Dan's fingers traced lazy circles on her shoulder as the familiar scenes unfolded. When Gandalf arrived in the Shire, Freya couldn't help herself."A wizard is never late," she intoned softly, "nor is he early.""He arrives precisely when he means to," Dan finished, his chest rumbling with quiet laughter.Freya tilted her head to look up at him, a grin spreading across her face. "Oh, so that's how it's gonna be, huh?""Damn straight," Dan replied, his eyes never leaving the screen. "I didn't memorize all this shit for nothing."As the mo
Freya shovelled a forkful of noodles into her mouth, savouring the burst of flavours. "Mmm, this is exactly what I needed," she mumbled around her food, not caring about table manners. She swallowed and gestured at the TV with her fork. "What are we watching anyway?"Dan flicked through channels, settling on some mindless reality show. "How's this for brain-numbing entertainment?""Perfect," Freya chuckled, leaning back into the couch cushions. She felt the tension in her shoulders start to loosen. "You know, when I pictured our date tonight, I didn't exactly imagine this.""Oh?" Dan raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. "And what did you imagine, Doctor Anderson?"Freya rolled her eyes, but couldn't hide her grin. "I don't know, maybe something a bit more... p
Freya pocketed her phone with a mix of relief and frustration. Dan would have to wait. She hurried to bay three, where an elderly man was complaining of chest pains. As she assessed him, her mind kept drifting back to Dan's text.'Focus, Freya,' she chided herself. 'Lives to save, remember?'But even as she ordered an ECG, a part of her was composing replies in her head. By the time she finished with the patient, she'd settled on a response. She pulled out her phone.Freya: I think you're fishing for compliments, Sergeant Foster. But don't worry, your ego is safe with me.She hit send, then immediately second-guessed herself. Too coy? Not flirty enough? Before she could overthink it further, another trauma came in. Freya pocketed her phone and rushed to
The harsh fluorescent lights of the hospital corridor made Freya's eyes ache as she slumped onto a chair in the staff break room. She'd been on her feet for five hours straight, dealing with everything from a kid who'd shoved a Lego up his nose to a drunk who'd managed to dislocate his own shoulder while attempting to recreate a TikTok dance.Her phone buzzed in her pocket. Freya fished it out, expecting another text from Emily demanding more gossip. Instead, her heart did a little flip when she saw Dan's name on the screen.Dan: Enjoyed our lunch, Doctor Anderson. Counting down the days until Wednesday. Hope you're not stitching up too many idiots tonight.A grin spread across Freya's face as she typed her reply.Freya: The night is you