All Chapters of SELFISH AMBITION : Chapter 11 - Chapter 20

The drive back to Reed’s estate felt like a blur as soon as we left. I got into the car and had just slumped over to daydream out the window. Pictures of the forest the leaves and the trees etched into memory as I unraveled under the sky. I never knew that sex could be this adventurous and thrilling. Parts of me wonder what had been like had I not waited so long but another part of me is grateful that I get to experience this just the way it is . Reed’s home isn’t anything that I would’ve imagined. I would have taken him for a modern contemporary, neat freak, especially after being on his yacht, but his home is anything but that. His estate stretches on for hundreds of acres. The front of the property is lined with rows of vineyards and trellis to match the size. His house is like a Château getaway. Stepping inside, it’s warm and inviting. The style is rustic yet timeless, and has the old money vibe mixed in with a chalet resort fit for the mountains. Fireplaces are located in most

Reeds POV As I soak in the tub with Emily I watch how she smiles at my touch and perks her body up for me while anticipating more connection. Quite frankly I would take her again right here… if it weren’t for the look of exhaustion on her face. The bags under her eyes, her pale skin glowing under the last bit of morning moon light that looks like it’s begging to drown in sorrow. She looks as if she’s been depressed for a long time. All that light and excitement I saw in her has faded into her sleep. I can’t believe I didn’t notice it before. I was so consumed by having revenge I never really stopped to look at her. How could my cousin let her spend so much time depressed. It’s clear to see it. The down turn of her eyes. The small exhausted frown. The empty void of feeling from her face. Not one wrinkle or laugh line across her face to weather the emotions that come from joy. Looks like I have my work cut out for me this time. Time. I can’t believe I’m even thinking about spen

Emily POV I continue to just stare out into the estate. I’m not sure how long I have been sitting on the porch but I can see the sky turning from dark to a blue moonlight color. The blue hour. My favorite time of day for solace that dances on the edge of night and day. A calm moment just before the sun begins to rise and ignite the pressure of the clock ahead. I continue to breathe. Deep in hale, sharp exhale. “Gahhhhhhh” I exhale in frustration. Not ready to tackle any of the tasks. “Em….” I look back. Reed is standing there dragging his hands through his hair pondering his next words articulately. “Why don’t we go do something fun today. Surely the world can wait. I have an idea that I think you might like. Works for soldiers with PTSD and I think you could use a little help.” I begin to protest. With the thoughts of tasks ahead and work to knock out and fired to put out but before I can get my words together- “You ever been horseback riding? I got some stallio

Emily’s POV As I descent the stairs, looking like a deflated marshmallow, Reed looks at me with wide eyes and maybe his mouth hung open just a little. I half smile at him. Another woman stares at me dressed in trousers and a blouse. She looks as if she could be his mother? I puzzle over the question in my mind as she shoots me a wink and makes her exit. Reed looks to me and then to a cart of goodies. Oh my food! I all but let my nose guide me to the delicious fall aroma. “Is that donuts” I say without a drop of shame. Eager to shove my face. Reed accepts my advances and starts pouring coffee and guides me to his side. I pluck one, two, three donuts. I wanted to go for four but he did promise a picnic right? I look to him as he quickly shuffles a text on his phone and slips it back in his pocket. “Coffee”? He prompts while handing me a mug with a smug smile and I quickly accept. Sipping the hazelnut notes of bliss. We set outside into the crisp air going down the porch

Emily’s POV While Reed gets the horses ready I stare out in wonder. Goldy is all but smitten for carrots and being brushed. The black stallion however, he is full of mystery. I stand there awhile longer looking at him when he turn towards me and sniffs. “Careful Em, he’s not gentle” I reach my hand out to touch his nose and he bows down. Reed stands like a deer in headlights. I bend down brushing away his mane and leave my hand as a gracious guide for connection. He’s a true wonder. “Well aren’t you just full of surprises today” Reed beams out in casual excitement. He walks over to us and the stallion is immediately up and running away. “Don’t worry, he’s temperamental. But I think he likes you. Reed the walks over to Goldy mounts up with ease and lends his hand out to me. “You’ll ride with me today.” He smiles and I take his hand while getting my foot in the stirrup to swing my leg over My backside is pressed snug to his hips as he grabs the reigns and clic