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i 'll just be one minute . '' `` take your time . '' she hurried across the foyer and into the living room . she deposited the roses onto one of the tables . `` i 'll be back tonight . you be a good boy , okay ? '' she said , when she got to her father 's chair . she leaned over and kissed both of mason 's cheeks . `` give mommy a kiss . '' he gave her a smacking kiss on the cheek . `` bye , my love , '' megan said , before turning and heading out of the room . she 'd just reached pesh 's side when he glanced past her . `` i think we have a potential stowaway , '' he replied , with a smile . she whirled around to see mason standing in the foyer . `` what 's wrong , baby ? '' `` no go , '' he whimpered . she glanced up at pesh . he usually is fine about me leaving him . '' she knelt down beside mason . `` i wo n't be gone long , and you 'll have much more fun here with grammy and granddad . pesh and i are doing boring , big people stuff . '' `` no go ! '' he cried , as big tears pooled in his eyes . pesh knelt down beside her . `` hey buddy , do n't cry . i 'm not going to take your mommy away from you . '' `` mace go ? '' he asked hopefully . `` no , sweetheart , i told you that we were going to do big people things today . '' `` that 's true , '' pesh said . then he smiled at mason . `` but that does n't mean we ca n't take a little detour first . '' megan 's widened her eyes in surprise . `` why do n't we take mason to lunch at his favorite place ? '' `` you do n't mean that , '' megan argued . pesh cut his gaze over to her . `` sure , i do . i can adjust our reservations . '' she could n't help staring at him in shock . how was it possible he was so willing to change his plans simply because mason did n't want her to leave ? she fought the urge to reach out and touch his shoulder to make sure he was real-he was far too good to be true at times . `` is that okay with you ? '' pesh asked her . `` of course it 's all right with me .
i was worried about it not being okay with you . '' `` i would n't have suggested it if i did n't mean it . '' he reached out and ruffled mason 's hair . `` all right , buddy , where do you want to go for lunch ? '' `` cheese ! cheese ! '' he cried , as he bobbed up and down . megan groaned as pesh 's expression grew confused . `` he wants to eat cheese ? '' `` no , he wants to go to chuck e. cheese-every parent 's worst nightmare . '' pesh chuckled as he rose up from the floor . `` all right then . chuck e. cheese it is . '' `` go get your shoes , '' megan instructed . as mason raced back into the living room , megan stood up . `` you really do n't have to do this . '' `` honestly , i do n't mind . we can go have lunch with mason , and then we can start our date . i 'm sure he 'll be worn out and ready for a nap when we get back , right ? '' `` yes , he will . '' then he wo n't have any reason to miss you if he 's asleep . '' she smiled at his thoughtfulness . i really mean that . '' he reached out and brushed her cheek . when he started to lean in to kiss her , mason ran back into the foyer with his shoes . pesh quickly jerked back . to combat the awkwardness , megan busied herself with getting mason 's shoes on . when she finished , mason bounded over to pesh and grabbed his hand . `` go ! go ! '' pesh laughed at mason 's enthusiasm . he held his other hand out for megan . she slid her hand into his and then they started to the car . as megan walked through the doors of their local chuck e. cheese , she recoiled slightly at both the ear- splintering noise and the stomach-turning smells . she also fought her embarrassment at the looks she and pesh were getting for their more formal outfits . `` i think we 're a little overdressed , '' she said . he held up his index finger and thumb before pinching them close together . `` just a little bit . '' tugging on pesh 's hand , mason dragged him over to the toddler area of games . megan quickly dug in her purse for some money for tickets . after she bought them , she went over to pesh .
`` i 'll go grab us some pizza . '' she waved the tickets at him . `` once these are gone , he 's done . '' `` i do n't mind getting him more . '' he 's done . '' `` okay then , '' he replied good-naturedly . megan felt completely at ease leaving pesh to watch mason . she got them a couple of slices of mason 's favorite , pepperoni , along with some drinks and then made her way over to a table close to the toddler area . when she caught pesh 's eye , she waved them over . after several tense moments , he was finally able to convince mason to leave the play area to come and eat . as mason bounced around in his seat , megan knew she would be doing good to get four bites of pizza down him before he was raring to go play again . she also had a fear that she , pesh , or the both of them were going to be wearing tomato sauce before it was all said and done . `` this place is very interesting , '' pesh remarked , as he gazed around . `` have you never had the pleasure ? '' `` sadly no . my brother , arjan 's , and his children live in florida , so i 've really never had a reason to come . '' `` you 've dodged a bullet there . that 's for sure . '' he smiled before taking a bite of his pizza . his expression turned so sour that megan could n't help giggling . `` this is terrible , '' he muttered . `` i should have warned you not to bother eating . it only seems appetizing to small children who are hyped up on adrenaline . '' he took a long swig from his coke and swished the liquid around like he was trying to rid himself of the taste . when he caught mason looking at him , he put on a fake smile . `` mmm , that 's good pizza . you better eat yours before i do . '' `` nice save , '' she murmured . he winked at her as he threw his napkin on his plate . she could n't believe when her heart fluttered at his gesture . it was almost impossible to believe that she could be getting feelings for him in the middle of chuck e. cheese . `` done . go play , '' mason announced , bringing her out of her thoughts . you need to eat more . '' mason scowled at her before grabbing another bite and shoveling it into his mouth .
he managed to clean his plate with a little coaxing from pesh . then the two of them went back over to the play area . as megan watched them , the small ache in her chest began to grow . pesh was completely hands on , hoisting mason up where he could reach things and then catching him when he came off the slide . he seemed to genuinely enjoy spending time with mason . some guys would have played with mason only to get on her good side . but pesh did n't have an agenda when it came to her , unless it was to have her embrace the idea of a relationship with him . when the last ticket was spent , she rose off her chair . `` okay , time to go . '' mason 's face scrunched up , and he looked like at any minute he might throw a tantrum to stay . but pesh took his hand . `` we 'll come back another time . '' his reply seemed to pacify mason , and he happily slung his and pesh 's arm back and forth as they walked to the car . when they got buckled up , megan turned back to mason . `` what do you say to pesh for bringing you ? '' `` tank you , esh , '' mason said . his words sent a broad grin stretching across pesh 's face . `` you 're welcome , buddy . i had a good time . '' when he glanced over at megan , she gave him a genuine smile . `` i had a good time , too . '' taking one of his hands off the steering wheel , he reached over to take her hand in his . while the gesture was a little too lovey-dovey for her liking , she did n't argue with him . instead , she just enjoyed his touch . once they had deposited a sleepy mason back home at megan 's , they abandoned her suv and gotten into pesh 's jaguar . `` so where exactly are we going ? '' megan asked , as she buckled her seat belt . `` seriously ? you 're still playing coy about it ? '' `` for just a little while longer . '' she shifted in her seat where she could look at him better . `` can i try to guess ? '' `` i suppose . i 'm not sure i 'd tell you even if you guess , '' he teased . `` are we going to atlanta ? '' he cut his gaze from the road over to her . `` have patience . ''
crossing her arms over her chest , she huffed , `` i do n't have patience for games . '' `` okay , i 'll give you a little hint . actually , it 's more of a question than it is a hint . '' `` yeah ? '' `` do you have a fear of heights ? '' she snorted . `` no , i do n't . why ? '' he gave her a sly grin . `` i told you . it 's a hint . '' `` i went skydiving when i turned twenty-one , so i 'm totally fine with heights . of course , i seriously doubt we 're going sky diving in these clothes . '' `` no , we 're not . '' she wrinkled her nose . `` please tell me it 's not box seats at the opera or something like that . '' his face fell . `` you do n't like the opera ? '' `` never been and never want to . '' pesh appeared almost personally insulted . `` i 'm going to have to change your mind on that one . '' `` why am i not surprised you like opera ? '' `` do n't knock it until you 've tried it . '' `` a bunch of screeching men and women singing in a language i do n't understand ? not my idea of a good time . '' `` but there is such love and passion in their delivery , '' he argued . `` um , i 'm just going to have to agree to disagree with you . '' `` for now at least , '' he said , with a wink . when the car started slowing down , megan peered out the windshield before turning to pesh . `` we 're at mccollum ? '' `` you 're taking me flying ? '' even though she had known he had a plane from how he 'd helped get aidan to noah 's delivery , she could n't believe their date included something as unique as flying . `` so let me get this straight . i 'm dressed like this , '' she did a little hand motion over her dress , `` to go flying ? '' an amused look twinkled in his dark eyes . `` you have absolutely no patience , do you ? '' as he put the car in park outside the hanger , he turned to her . `` by your lack of being able to withhold gratification , i 'm assuming you 've never partaken in any tantric sex ? '' she could n't stop her mouth from dropping to her chest . `` w-what ? '' she stammered .
turning in his seat , he pinned her with a hard stare . `` have i managed to shock you again ? '' unable to speak , she merely bobbed her head . pesh only chuckled at her response . let 's get going . '' still in shock , she remained rooted to her seat . when he came around to open her door , she peered up at him . `` tantric sex ? like sting , trudie styler , and tantric sex ? '' `` yes , i suppose so , '' he replied , as he offered her his hand . ordinarily , she would n't have taken it , but at the declaration that pesh was actually into something outside the sexual norms , she was too floored to argue with him . `` i did n't think you 'd like anything ... kinky . '' pesh 's dark eyes widened . `` tantric is n't kinky . it 's about connecting with your lover on a more intimate level . it 's about breathing them in and truly being one . '' `` so it 's not about marathon sex that lasts for days ? '' he chuckled . `` you 've gotten the more salacious side confused with what it actually is . '' megan pursed her lips at him as her mind whirled with the possibilities . after all , if tantric sex with pesh was anywhere as good as his efforts in going down on her , she was one very lucky lady . `` i guess you 'll just have to educate me . '' they were interrupted by an air traffic controller with a headset . `` hey , dr. nadeen , how goes it ? '' thank you . everything ready to go , lewis ? '' pesh asked , as he pumped the man 's hand . `` gassed up and checked out . we just need your flight plan . '' pesh 's gaze went to megan before he said , `` we 'll be flying into savannah/hilton head airport . '' thanks , '' lewis replied , before he started back inside the hanger . `` you 're taking me to savannah ? '' `` for dinner and dancing . i had originally intended on more , but we got a later start . '' `` this is crazy . you 're crazy . '' he gave her a puzzled look . `` you do n't like savannah ? '' `` no , i love it . i just meant taking me four hours away for dinner . '' `` it 's not that long by plane . ''
crossing her arms over her chest , she tilted her head at him . `` you could n't just take me somewhere fancy in atlanta ? you have to fly me in your private plane to another city ? '' `` why not ? '' although it was probably unattractive , she could n't help snorting with contempt . `` i 'm probably going to sound a little like the line from pretty woman when she says she appreciates the seduction scene , but she 's a sure thing . '' she patted her chest . `` i am a sure thing . you do n't have to go to all this trouble . '' his dark eyes narrowed . `` your way of thinking is precisely why i 'm doing what i am . '' `` you 've only been with men who wanted a sure thing-men who did n't even bother trying to imagine a future with you past when they came at the end of the night . '' she sucked in a breath at his words . with his expression softening , he closed the gap between them . `` while you may only want sex from me , i want far more from you . i want your time , but i also want you to understand that you 're worthy of something special . and if it takes planes and fancy meals to prove it to you , then i 'm going to do it . '' after his argument , megan sat frozen in dumbfounded silence . how was it possible that he knew so much about her ? he was right in the fact that she settled for being the 'sure thing ' for the guys she dated in the past . she knew she did n't want to make those mistakes again , so why should n't she let him try to wine and dine her ? take me to savannah . '' he opened the passenger side door . `` here you go . make sure you buckle your seat belt . '' she nodded before she dipped inside the plane . pesh waited for her to adjust her dress before he closed the door . as he walked around the front of the plane , she got busy finding the seat belt and buckling up . once he climbed inside , he handed her a headset . `` this will help with the cabin noise . '' `` it 's going to mess my hair up , '' she complained . `` i never took you as the type of woman who worried about her hair . '' she grinned as she eased the headset on . `` now you know . i worry about my hair , and you get your freak on in the bedroom . '' he rolled his eyes at her and turned in his seat .
after placing his headset on , he started flipping switches and turning knobs . the propeller on the front of the plane started whirling . `` so what kind of plane is this ? '' she asked over the noise . holding up a finger , he spoke into the mic on the headset . `` ground to tower , this is cessna 172 requesting to taxi for takeoff . '' suddenly the sound of the tower came over her headset . `` clearance for taxi and takeoff , cessna 172 . '' `` roger that , '' pesh replied . the plane lurched forward and then started taxing down the runaway . `` hmm , i 'm guessing a cessna 172 ? '' `` it 's nice . i like it . '' `` i hope you 'll be saying that again in a minute . '' megan knew what he meant when the plane started gaining speed down the runaway . just like when she was on a commercial flight , it was on the ground one minute , and then in the air the next . they soared into the blue sky while zipping through white , fluffy clouds . once they had gained enough altitude , pesh eased off on the rudder and glanced over at her . `` you okay over there ? '' `` are you kidding me ? this is amazing . '' `` i 'm glad to hear you like it . i did n't know if you were going to take after your uncle aidan . '' `` i hear you gave him drugs to make it . '' `` yeah , i did . he slept most of the way there . '' `` total wuss , '' she remarked with a smile . after adjusting one of the controls , pesh said , `` well , i have to admit that my late wife was n't a fan , either . she tolerated flying with me because she knew how much i loved it , but most of the time , she 'd take a pill to relax . '' `` so she did n't share your passion ? '' `` no , she did n't . she always encouraged me to do what i loved . she never was one to make me choose between her or something else . she was that sacrificing . '' `` that was really amazing of her to be that giving . '' when pesh remained silent , megan knew it was time for a conversation change . `` now that i know we 're going to savannah , are you going to tell me where we 're going for dinner ? '' `` it 'll probably be a late lunch when we get there . '' `` so , where will our late lunch be ? ''
`` do you like the historic district ? '' `` i love it . '' i 've picked a restaurant there for us . '' `` do you come to savannah often ? '' `` a couple of times a year , mainly for medical conferences on the coast . '' `` and you always fly ? '' `` i do , '' he replied , with a smile . the flight took less time than she thought , and with clear weather , it was totally smooth . as they started making their descent , pesh glanced over at her . `` are you ready for the landing ? '' why would n't i be ? '' `` it can be a little intense for some people . you see a lot more of the ground rushing at you than when you 're in a 747 . '' `` i went skydiving , remember ? '' `` ah , that 's right . '' with a wink , he added , `` you 're my little adrenaline junkie . '' `` i was . not anymore . '' `` what changed all that ? '' `` mason . when you 're responsible for the health , safety , and happiness of someone else , your entire perspective changes . '' `` he 's a true gift . '' she jerked her gaze to him . `` yes , he is . '' pesh gave her a small smile before radioing the tower . once he had clearance to land , they started rapidly losing altitude . the runway got closer and closer until the plane jolted forward and then began skidding along the pavement . when it finally came to a shuddering stop , megan exhaled the breath she 'd been holding . `` still okay ? '' `` never better . '' the sound of the tower came in her headset as pesh listened to the instructions . the plane started rolling toward one of the hangers . once he had parked and powered down the plane , he got out to help her . after a quick talk with a member of the grounds crew , pesh took her hand and led her out of the hanger . a cab waited to take them into the city . she laughed as she slid across the seat . `` i 'm surprised by the cab . i thought you might really go upscale by having a limo or chauffeur-driven car pick us up . '' `` i like to stay humble , '' he replied with a wink . she shook her head at him before turning to gaze out the window at the scenery . when they began winding through the antebellum homes of the historic district , megan felt her stomach growl .
she 'd been too nervous to eat breakfast , and then she had n't dared eat at chuck e. cheese 's . the cab stopped outside a chic looking restaurant . as pesh paid the driver , megan hopped out and took in the sights around her . she loved the old world feel of the city with all its history and charm . pesh offered her his arm , and then they walked inside . the restaurant 's popularity was evident in how crowded it was even at four in the afternoon . they were ushered to a quiet , candlelit table . `` wine ? '' `` yes please . '' `` white okay ? '' `` sure . '' after the waiter left with their drink order , megan surveyed the menu and sighed . `` everything looks so good . '' glancing over his menu at her , pesh said , `` with the cuisine being southern , i imagined you would like it . '' `` i love all types of food . trust me , as hungry as i am now , i would have eaten anywhere . '' the waiter returned with their wine , and megan knew she needed to make a decision . `` i 'll have the shrimp and grits , please . '' `` very good , ma'am , '' the waiter replied . `` i 'll have the same , '' pesh said , handing the waiter his menu . when megan grinned at him , his brows rose . `` i 'm just surprised to hear you eating something so southern as shrimp and grits . '' he tsked at her . `` when will you learn that you can never pigeonhole me as one thing or the other ? '' `` actually , i like that you 're proving me wrong and being unexpected . '' `` sometimes i feel like people try to do the same thing to me . people have their own assumptions about girls or women who get knocked up . i hope i constantly prove them wrong . '' `` i 'm sure you do . '' after taking a sip of his wine , he cocked his head at her . `` prove me wrong on this one . does a southern girl like you eat indian food ? '' `` oh yes , i love it . '' his dark eyes lit up . `` what 's your favorite dish ? '' `` hmm , i love butter chicken , but i 'm also a fan of pav bahaji . '' `` i 'm impressed . emma had never eaten any indian food , and i do n't think i made a good impression on her . '' pesh 's chuckle died out , and he immediately grimaced at the mention of emma 's name .
knowing that they were dancing around the white elephant in the room , megan reached across the table and patted his hand . `` it 's okay that you 're talking about emma . '' `` speaking of old girlfriends or women you 've dated while you 're with another woman is never a good idea . '' `` this is different . emma is my family . '' she swirled the wine around in her glass . `` i 've heard her side of the story , but i do n't think i 've heard yours . '' `` you heard a little when you were inebriated the night of noah 's baptism . '' now it was megan 's turn to grimace . `` i still would like to know . '' pesh drew in a ragged breath . when the waiter appeared with their salads , it appeared that he might dodge the question entirely . but once they were alone together , he smiled . `` emma came along at a time when i was facing extreme pressure from family and friends to move on from my grief and date again . there was no escape to it-i faced it at the hospital , as well as when i was at home . people seemed to think that once a year went by on the calendar that meant i was through with my mourning . then one day , there she was in the er . she was scared out of her mind about your grandfather . somehow i just connected with her through her grief and pain . '' he dabbed his mouth with his napkin . `` she reminded me so much of jade that it was easy to try to imagine that what i was feeling for her was romantic . i had n't been out in so long that i wanted to woo her , just like i wanted to you . '' `` and aidan came between you ? '' `` in a way , both he and jade did . '' `` let 's just say , during a very heated moment together , she was with aidan , and i was with jade . '' megan was surprised by his candor . there was one item in the pesh and emma equation she had always wondered about . `` you did n't mind that she was pregnant ? '' shaking his head , pesh replied , `` it just made her even more beautiful to me . i 'd been through so much death that i guess i was drawn to her because she had life growing within her . '' `` that 's really beautiful , '' megan murmured . he gave her a mirthless laugh . `` one of my worst character faults is having a hero complex .
i guess it 's one of the reasons i became a doctor . i saw emma , and i wanted to save her . when she had to go on bed rest , i wanted to be her knight in shining armor . '' `` being a hero is not exactly a bad character trait . '' `` it is when you ca n't save someone , and you have to constantly live with the guilt . '' megan 's heart ached at the pain on his face . sensing she needed to lighten the mood , she teased , `` i 'm glad to hear you actually have a bad character trait . i mean , you seemed a little too perfect to me . '' a shadow of a smile played on his lips . `` did i mention i 'm a terrible slob ? '' `` you ? never , '' she replied . `` oh yes . if i did n't have a housekeeper , i 'm pretty sure i might end up on world 's nastiest houses . '' `` i find that hard to believe . '' `` it 's the truth . i also have no athletic ability whatsoever . '' after chewing thoughtfully on her bite of salad , megan said , `` but you 're built like a football player . '' `` i 'm built because i go to the gym to work off stress . but if you put me on the field , i 'd be a serious disappointment . '' `` that does n't turn me off at all . i 've had my fill of jocks . '' `` oh ? '' he questioned . although he was trying to be nonchalant about it , she knew he wanted to hear the full story . `` dating jocks for me is poison , and when i did date one , i made sure to date the ones at the top of their game . my first athlete 's influence caused me to ruin my chances at medical school . '' `` that 's horrible . '' but what 's worse is i did n't learn anything from my mistakes because i fell for another one . '' with a rueful smile , she added , `` at least i got mason out of that one . '' pesh laced his fingers together . `` mason 's father is a professional athlete ? '' `` yes , he plays football for the falcons . '' `` you know i 'm friends with the team 's sports medicine doctor . i could probably arrange something for him . maybe a little icy hot in his cup ? '' at the mischievous twinkle in pesh 's eyes , megan burst out laughing .
`` i can not believe , you of all people , suggested such a thing . '' with a shrug , pesh replied , `` it 's a harmless prank . '' `` i realize that . it 's just i ca n't imagine someone like you would even think of doing something like that . '' when he started to open his mouth to argue , she held up her hand . `` i know , i know . do n't pigeon hole you . '' `` exactly . '' their main course arrived , and megan could n't help digging into the wonderful aromatic food . as they ate , the conversation came easily . that was one of the things she liked most about pesh-he was so easy to talk to . because he was older , refined , and a doctor , she could have felt intimidated by him . but he never made her feel that way . he always seemed fascinated by every single thing she had to say , which was quite a change from most of the guys she dated . they were usually half listening to her while glancing over her shoulder at the tv to get the latest score . after they finished , the waiter took their plates . `` dessert ? '' megan asked , as she downed the last of her wine . pesh nodded his head toward the small dance floor . `` how about a dance instead ? '' `` i 'm really not much of a dancer . '' he arched his brows at her as if he knew she was lying . `` okay , fine , i used to dance all the time back in high school and college . '' `` then dance with me . '' `` i 'm not good at slow dancing . you 'll probably regret asking me the moment we get out there . '' pesh stuffed a wad of bills into the bill envelope . `` as shakespeare would say , the lady do protesth too much . and i think i know the reason . '' `` oh , you do ? '' `` slow dancing is intimate , and you do n't want to want to let yourself be intimate with me . '' `` you went down on me in a supply closet . i think that 's pretty intimate , '' she challenged . `` that was not intimacy . sexual acts are of the mind where our pleasure center is . intimacy is of the heart . '' he held her gaze . `` we both know you 'll let me into your body but not your heart . '' knowing he was right , she crossed her arms over her chest and scowled at him . she did n't know why she just could n't get up and go dance like he had asked .
she 'd slow danced a thousand times at parties . what was the difference here ? somewhere deep down , she knew the answer to that question . `` if you do n't want to dance , then let 's go and see the city . '' not wanting to let him get the best of her , she rose out of her chair . i 'll dance with you . '' `` do n't sound so thrilled . '' after he stood up , he took her hand and led her over to the dance floor . she started to wrap her arms around his neck like she was accustomed to , but he put one of her hands on his shoulder and then he took the other hand in his . his other hand slid around to rest at her lower back . the band finished the jazzier beats of a song and then switched over to another . a lone piano pounded out the opening chords . the lead singer 's sultry voice filled the air , `` like a flower waiting to bloom . '' megan immediately recognized the song as norah jones ' turn me on . the electricity between them shifted , and as megan stared up into pesh 's eyes , she saw desire and lust flaring in them . her gaze dropped down to his full lips , and she could n't help wanting him to kiss her . as if he read her mind , pesh 's mouth closed over hers . darting her tongue out , she sought to find his warmth . when she did , he tasted like a mixture of the wine and spices they 'd eaten . his tongue pulled back to trace her lips as his hps jerked , pushing him against her . she followed his lead by pressing herself flush against him to where her br*sts were rubbing against his chest . she shivered when he groaned into her mouth . his thumb slid back and forth between her shoulder blades , and she could n't help arching into his touch . as he pulled away from their kiss , he kept his eyes locked on hers . she 'd never had a man stare at her so much . it was like he was trying to see through her to her very soul . it both overwhelmed and inflamed her at the same time . it was all part of his slow seduction plan , and it was working . `` please take me somewhere-somewhere we can be alone . '' his expression became pained . `` megan- '' she brought her hand from his shoulder to cover his lips . `` do n't make me beg to be with you anymore . ''
shaking his head , he replied , `` i ca n't deny you anymore , not after having a taste of you . '' megan shuddered at the intensity of both his words and the way he delivered them . taking her by the hand , he led her off the dance floor . they snaked around the tables in the dining area until they reached the exit . weaving through the people , they went into the hotel that adjoined the restaurant . it was actually more of a historic bed and breakfast than a hotel . as they neared the reception area , pesh dropped her hand to reach into his coat pocket . once he retrieved his wallet , he stepped up to the desk . `` i need a room please . '' `` credit card and identification please , '' the inn keeper droned . as she sized him up , megan could n't help thinking he looked rather pompous-the usual type of person who worked in a high-end place . `` would you prefer queen or- '' `` a king please , '' pesh requested through clenched teeth . `` do you need help with your luggage ? '' `` no , we do n't have any . '' the man typed something into the computer . `` and how long will you be staying with us ? '' `` as long as we need , '' pesh replied , drumming his fingers on the marble counter . megan watched as the man 's eyes widened and a flush entered his face . he quickly finished the reservation and handed pesh a key card . `` we have you in one of our balcony king suites . '' taking her by the hand , pesh led her over to the elevators . when megan dared to glance over her shoulder , she saw the man peering curiously at them . as they stepped onto the car , megan could n't help the nervous giggle that escaped her lips . when pesh looked at her in surprise , she laughed even harder . `` what is it ? '' `` by the way that conversation went down , he probably thinks i 'm a prostitute . '' `` you do n't seriously think that ? '' `` okay , maybe a high-end escort ? '' a growl came from low in his throat . `` do not demean yourself like that . '' `` i 'm not demeaning myself . think about it . we come in during the middle of the day with no luggage , and we want a hotel room with a king sized bed . '' she tapped her chin with her finger . `` hmm , what could we possibly be doing ? '' the corners of his lips turned up in a smile .
`` i probably should care what the man thinks , but right now , i frankly do n't give a shit . '' `` me either . '' the elevator dinged , signaling they had reached their floor . they stepped out and read the signs to find their room . once pesh opened the door , megan walked inside . she took in the cozy decor of the room with its brick fireplace , antiques , and four-poster bed . going to a hotel could have been sleazy , but this room had such a romantic feel to it . when he came up behind her and slid his arms around her waist , she could n't help suddenly feeling shy . his breath warmed against her ear . `` you tensed when i touched you . '' i did n't mean to . i guess i 'm just nervous . '' pesh turned her around to face him . `` you do n't have anything to feel nervous about . if you do n't want to do this anymore , we do n't have to . '' `` no , i want to do it , '' she assured him . without another word , his fingers went to her hair . after he undid the clasp , her hair tumbled down over her shoulders . an appreciative shudder rippled through her when he nuzzled his face into the strands at her neck . from there he sought out the zipper at the middle of her back . slowly , he slid it down . when the back of the dress gaped open , he took the spaghetti straps and eased them over her shoulders and down her arms . megan felt his breath warming her back as the dress pooled onto the floor . she stepped out of it , and then turned to face him . the heat of his gaze stoked the fire burning deep inside her . his expression was fierce as he drank in her strapless black bra and panties , along with her heels . `` you are so beautiful . '' for some reason , she felt the urge to blush at his words . guys had told her she was beautiful before , but it did n't feel the same or sound the same coming from them as it did pesh . the way he said she was beautiful , coupled with the way he looked at her , made her tingle in all the right places . her hands came to his tie . after she loosened it , she ripped it off him and slung it to the floor . deftly , her fingers worked the buttons on his shirt . when she opened it , she sucked in a breath at the sight of the dusting of dark hair covering his chest .
it trailed down over his washboard abs and down into his pants . `` you 're pretty beautiful yourself , '' she said with a smile . as he shrugged off his shirt , her fingers went to his belt . the entire time she unbuttoned and unzipped him , his burning gaze took in everything she did . `` why do you keep staring at me ? '' she questioned quietly . `` i 'm afraid if i look away , you wo n't be real . '' his hand cupped her cheek . `` i 've wanted this for so long-i 've wanted you for so long . it 's hard to believe that you 're really here . '' `` touch me , '' she urged . she took his other hand and brought it to her breast . `` touch me and feel how real i am . '' lowering his head , his mouth hovered over hers . `` breathe me in , '' he instructed , as he kneaded her breast over her bra . at the feel of his breath against her lips , she inhaled while his heated gaze almost singed her cheeks . even if she had wanted to , she could n't bring herself to look away from his eyes . when she exhaled , he inhaled , and it was like they were doing a dance . it was both relaxing and somewhat erotic . she 'd never spent time just breathing and gazing into someone 's eyes . `` now you 've had your first lesson in tantra , '' he murmured against her lips . she jerked her head back to stare at him in surprise . `` are you going to do more ? '' he reached around to undo her bra . `` do you want me to ? '' `` i think so . '' `` then i will . i want to do whatever is pleasing for you . '' she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him . he eased her over to the four-poster bed . after removing his pants and boxers , he slid her panties down her legs . as megan sat on the edge of the massive king sized bed , she widened her legs to allow him to step between them . when he brought his hand to stroke between her thighs , she moaned and let her head fall back . two fingers entered her and began a slow , teasing assault . she began to rock her h*ps against his hand , adding the friction she desired . when she felt his erection rubbing against her leg , she reached between them to take him in her hand .
her eyelids fluttered open , and she stared into his face as they worked each other into a sweaty , panting frenzy . when pesh curled his fingers inside her , she bit down on her lip to keep from screaming out in pleasure . her orgasm rocketed through her lower half , causing her head to fall forward onto his chest . when she came back to herself , pesh was sliding her body up the mattress . then he was hovering over her , kissing her brsts and licking her niles into hardened peaks . `` now , pesh , '' she urged . `` i want you deep inside of me . '' just as his head nudged against her opening , he stopped . `` oh no , '' he murmured before rocking back to sit on his knees . megan propped herself up on her elbows and gazed up at him . she hoped that after giving in , he had n't decided to back out at the last minute . he rubbed the stubble on his cheeks . `` i , uh ... we ca n't do this without a condom , and i do n't have one with me . '' in the heat of the moment , she had totally forgotten about that . `` you do n't happen to have one ? '' `` sorry . '' `` it 's me who ought to be sorry for putting you in a position like this without protection . '' when he started to pull away , she sat up to grab his shoulders , urging him to stop . `` we can still do this . neither one of us has been with anybody in at least two years-we 've had tests for the hospital . '' `` that 's all well and good but what about pregnancy ? are you on the pill ? '' she chewed on her bottom lip momentarily . `` wait a minute , '' she murmured . in her mind , she began counting down the days since her last period . `` twenty . '' `` twenty what ? '' `` i 'm on day twenty , so we should be safe . '' `` i 'll still pull out . '' `` if you say so , '' she replied . gripping his biceps , she urged him to cover her again with his body . she loved the feel of his chest hairs rubbing against her ni**les . pesh widened her legs , and then he eased inside her , filling and stretching her walls . it had been so long that she could n't help feeling a bit of a sting . he withdrew and flexed his hips , thrusting back inside her . this time they both moaned . setting up a rhythm , he began rocking in and out of her .
the pace was slow and sensual , and while he was hitting all the right spots , she wanted more . the entire time he moved in and out of her , he kept his eyes locked firmly on hers . his gaze was so dark with desire that she did n't dare look away . the longer she stared into his eyes , the more connected with him she felt . the old saying was that the eyes were windows to the soul , and she was getting a pretty good glimpse into his . and that scared the hell out of her . wanting to make things less sensual , she gripped his biceps . `` harder , '' she panted . rising on his knees , he slid his forearms under the backs of her knees . this enabled him to pull her back against his pounding thrusts . while their connection at first had been so intimate , this was more about lust and desire . she reached up and clasped his face in her hands , bringing his head down to hers . their mouths and tongues met in frenzied kisses . when he pulled out of her , megan whimpered at the loss of feeling . he quickly flipped her over onto her stomach . pulling on her hips , he raised her up onto her knees . when he reentered her , megan moaned . with each thrust , he went deeper and deeper . her fingers fisted the sheets as he leaned over her back , kissing a trail down her spine . she did n't know how he was able to be so many places at once . while his mouth licked her back and teasingly left love bites , his hands were rubbing her thighs and then sliding under her to squeeze her brsts or tease her clit . he was giving her so much that she could n't stay silent . she moaned , chanted his name , and cried out as the sounds of their wet skin slapped together . finally , she could n't take it anymore . dropping her head , she screamed into the mattress as she found her release . once her walls finished clenching , she felt pesh withdraw from her . as he groaned , megan felt warmth spurt onto her back and buocks . after seeing him come before , she hated she could n't see his face . he was so beautiful when he was finding release . once he finished , she eased down onto her stomach and curled a pillow under her head . after a few seconds , pesh lay down beside her . she turned her head and met his gaze . exhausted and completely sexually satisfied for the first time in her life , all she could muster to say was , `` wow . ''
a slow grin spread across his cheeks . `` you seem to say that a lot around me after orgasms . '' `` it 's because you render me absolutely speechless with your talents . '' i could say the same about you . '' his gaze left her face and trailed down her nad back . rolling her shoulder blades , she said , `` i kinda like it . makes me feel marked or something . '' he smiled shyly at her . `` i like the idea of marking you-making you mine . '' he wanted her to be his . she did n't know quite what to think about that statement . did she want to be his ? she certainly could n't imagine belonging to anyone else . besides the amazing physical chemistry they shared , she was starting to feel such a deep connection to him . staring over at him , she could n't help wondering what was going on in his mind . `` we 've really done it now , have n't we ? '' `` yes , i do believe that was the universal `` it '' that we just did , '' he teased . she smacked his arm playfully . `` i know , '' he murmured . `` no matter what , this changes everything . '' `` for the better , i hope . '' `` i suppose . '' the truth was she 'd never really had casual sex before . there was one time her freshman year that she hooked up with a guy at work . it was the first and only time she 'd ever done anything so crazy . in that instance , the sex had been over before she 'd known it and without her coming even once . after that fiasco , she had never wanted a repeat performance with him or any other random guy , until she 'd found herself in a sex slump after mason 's birth . but with pesh , the sex had been ... she shivered as the remaining echoes washed over her . before sleeping with pesh , she could count the number of past sexual partners on one hand , as well as the times she had had even remotely good sex . for megan , her experience with pesh was seriously earth shattering and life altering . she could n't imagine just walking away now . pesh sat up and edged to the side of the bed . he held out his hand to her . let 's shower . '' `` if you insist . '' she slid over to him before throwing a leg over the side of the mattress . although she should have felt a little bashful being nad in front of him , she felt surprisingly comfortable .
when she got into the bathroom , she raised her brows in surprise . `` a clawfoot tub ? '' `` all the old charm but modern conveniences . '' he pointed to the detachable shower head . `` nice . '' he turned on the water and waited for it to heat up . once he decided it was warm enough , he took her by the hand and helped her inside . she turned her back to the spray , letting the water clean her up . pesh did n't seem to think that was enough because after he soaped up his hands , he began to wash off her back and ass . as his magic hands massaged in slow strokes , she could n't resist asking the question that was plaguing her . `` did i feel different ? '' his hands stilled on her lower back . glancing at him over her shoulder , she replied , `` that was the first time i 've had sex since i gave birth to mason . i just wondered if i felt different . you know , inside . '' his face came to nuzzle her neck . `` you felt amazing . '' `` not any different ? '' `` did you hear me complaining ? '' `` no , but i just worried . '' `` you have nothing to worry about , my love . '' his hand skimmed over her ribcage to cup her breast . as her nipple hardened beneath his fingers , she sucked in a pleased breath . `` i want nothing more than to be back inside you as soon as i can . '' `` then why do n't you ? '' she challenged . `` fine then . put your hands on the tile , '' he ordered . `` yes , sir , '' she teased before placing her palms on the cool , wet tile . pesh slid the gleaming silver shower head between her legs , causing her to gasp at the contact . then he flicked his wrist to the side , sending the jets of water pounding into her clit . she moaned and threw her head back against his drenched chest . slowly he started moving the shower head to where it would rub against her . each time she moved back , the water hit her in just the right spot . she arched her hps as the pressure began to build . pesh slid his free hand up over her ribcage to cup her breast . he kneaded the flesh , pinching the ni*les that were already hardened . she pinched her eyes shut from the sensory overload . just as she would feel herself about to come , he would shift his wrist so the vibrations hit her in another area , building her again .
`` please , pesh , '' she moaned . `` what , baby ? '' `` please make me come . '' `` have you had enough pleasure yet , or should we continue on ? '' he asked , moving the shower head away from her . she groaned at the loss . rubbing her ass against his hardened erection , she begged , `` you let me come , and then i 'll make sure you do as well . '' with his knee , he nudged her legs even further apart . when he once again brought the shower head between her legs , it reached even more sensitive areas . it took only a few seconds of the water coupled with his rubbing and her grinding to cause her to scream with the pulsing convulsions . she smacked her hands against the walls as wave after wave pulsed through her . when she finally stopped shuddering , she slowly slid around to smile up at pesh . `` wow ? '' he said , with a smile . she teasingly pinched his arm . `` i was going to say exquisitely amazing . '' `` i 'm sure you were . '' reaching between them , she took his erection in her hands . `` good thing i 'm about to get on my knees because i do n't think i could stand after all that , '' she said , with a teasing wink . bending her head , she began trailing kisses down his wet chest . as she stroked him , she took time to kiss and then suck on his niles . his groan told her she was finding some of his most sensitive places . after teasing his niles to erect points , she continued on down his delicious washboard abs and through the dark hair that crowned his erection . sinking down onto the floor of the tub , she stroked him hard from base to tip . when his chest began to heave , she leaned over to slide him into her mouth . `` megan , '' he groaned , his fingers coming to tangle in the wet strands of her hair . she took him as far back as she could before sliding him out . her tongue flicked over the sensitive head before she suctioned it . when she released him again , she began long licks up his length . then she once again slid him in her mouth and began bobbing her head up and down his length . his groans began to echo throughout the bathroom . `` oh , megan , '' pesh murmured . his grip on her hair tightened as he flexed his h*ps to go even deeper into her mouth .
when he started tightening up , he tried to pull away , but she gripped his thighs and held him in place . he cried out and then came in a rush into her mouth . she swallowed all of him before she glanced up to see him staring down at her with such adoration in his face . as he fell free from her mouth , she smiled . he helped her up off the tub floor . `` we better hurry up before we use all the hot water in these old pipes . '' `` i think you would probably do a good job keeping me warm . '' `` i feel the same way about you . '' although they were tempted for another round , megan knew pesh did n't want to chance it without any condoms . instead , she tore herself away from him when they finished their shower . she blew her hair dry while he got dressed . once she finished , he helped her slide back into her dress . then they left their suite without even turning down the bed . when they got downstairs , megan inwardly groaned that the same man was at the reception desk . she knew from his expression that he recognized them as well . as pesh handed him the key card , megan decided to make the most of the situation . she rubbed pesh 's arm . `` thanks again , mr. nadeen . make sure to call me again next time you 're in savannah . i love big spenders like you , '' she purred . while the man 's eyes bulged , pesh stared at megan like she had grown another head . his mouth opened and closed like a fish out of water , but no words of admonishment came out . when he finally , recovered , he tersely replied , `` i 'll try to remember that , miss mckenzie . '' truly playing her part , megan turned on her heels and started walking across the lobby . she did n't get far before pesh was at her side . after shoving the hotel bill into his suit pocket , he slid his arm around her waist , drawing her close against him . `` you are in so much trouble , '' he growled into her ear . she giggled as they walked out of the hotel . `` mmm , are you going to punish me by taking me over your knee and spanking me ? '' `` i just might , '' he replied . tilting her head , she eyed him in the street lights . `` you ca n't seriously expect me to believe that you of all people are into bdsm ? '' `` no , i 'm not . ''
`` once again , that does n't surprise me . '' when he stopped walking right in the middle of the crowded street , she stared up at him in surprise . `` a good spanking , some handcuffs , and a blindfold all have possibilities . as far as all that other stuff ? '' his thumb came up to trail slowly across her bottom lip . `` if one truly knows how to f**k , you do n't need any accessories and embellishments . '' she licked her lips as a little shiver went down her spine . `` and you certainly know what you 're doing . you just got me wet right here in the middle of the street . '' his jaw clenched as he took her by the arm . `` do n't say anything else like that . i need to get you home . '' `` to your bed ? '' `` i wish . but you need to go home to your family . '' megan did n't argue with him because she knew he was right . she had a son to think about . regardless of how tempting it was , she just could n't go on some pleasure binge when she was a mother . but there was a part of megan that did n't want the bubble to burst by leaving pesh and going home to her regular life . she wanted nothing more than go back to his place . sex with pesh had been phenomenal . and despite being a little sore from underuse , she certainly felt ready for more . sex , that was . pesh grabbed them a taxi , and they made the drive back to the airport . even though they did n't speak , megan did n't feel awkward around him after what they had done . he sat as close to her as he could with her hand clasped in his . once they got back to the plane , she felt exhaustion begin to set in . leaning back against the headrest , she closed her eyes as pesh went about getting them ready to take off . she only opened her eyes again when she felt them start racing down the runway . when they got into the air , she could n't help sitting on the edge of her seat and peering out the windows at the city lights . `` it 's so beautiful in the dark . '' `` sometimes i think i favor flying at night . '' `` for some reason , it seems much more tranquil . there 's a vulnerability to it as well . in the day , everything is within your sight distance . but in the dark , you have to rely on your instruments and instincts . ''
`` i 'd love to learn how to fly . '' `` you would ? '' `` i 've always thought it would be something amazing to learn . '' `` then i 'll teach you . '' she turned to him in surprise . why not ? '' with a shrug , she replied , `` you 're a busy man , and i do n't know how fast a learner i would be . '' `` for you i would make time . '' as she stared at him across the small interior of the plane , she knew she was ready to make more time for him as well . where it would lead them , she could n't wait to see . chapter fifteen as the cornflower-blue horizon spread out for miles and miles before her , megan could n't help fighting the urge to pinch herself . she was actually up in pesh 's plane during her first flight lesson . from the moment they had taken off , she had been overwhelmed by such a surreal feeling . it must 've been something about being in control of the plane as it rocketed down the runway and then took off into the sky . of course , she really was n't in total control of the plane . pesh was able to take over at any moment from his spot in the co-pilot 's seat . that made her feel a little better considering she had so little flying experience , and the manual she had read at least twice did n't prepare you for everything . now as they coasted along the city skyline , she kept both hands firmly gripping the steering wheel , or yoke as it was called in small plane terminology , as they passed through wispy strands of white clouds . when pesh had first offered to give her flying lessons , megan did n't know if she should believe him or not . looking back , she was n't sure why she ever doubted him considering he was always a man of his word . and now , just two weeks after their first date in savannah , they were back up in the air flying around atlanta on a thursday afternoon . it had been quite a week together of having dinner after work or them picking up something on the way to her house . although , the first day back at work proved both difficult and awkward as they tried to appear as though nothing had changed . but the fact was everything had changed , and it was n't just because they had become physical . as much as megan tried to fight her growing feelings for pesh , it was virtually impossible .
a man like him made it too hard for any woman not to fall in love with him , and as much as she did n't want to acknowledge it , she could see herself falling for him . of course , he was also full of surprises . like on monday when he had asked her to see if there was an extra heart monitor in one of the empty patient rooms on the first floor . she had obediently gone to check . while she found the heart monitor , she also found him . the gentleman she had once known became somewhat of a sex fiend when he locked the door and disappeared with her behind the curtain . a mid-day sex session in an empty hospital bed made for quite an experience , especially when the brake on the bed released , and they literally banged into the walls . but besides the naughty sexcapade , he 'd wanted to spend down time with her and mason . earlier in the week , pesh brought mason to see his plane . megan had to smile at the image in her mind of mason on pesh 's lap in the pilot 's seat as he explained the ins and outs of the buttons and knobs . pesh had shown such patience with mason by constantly fielding his questions and letting him wear one of the headsets . he 'd even gotten the atc to send a message over the headset so mason could hear . while it was supposed to be a pre-flying lesson for her , it turned educational for mason as well . and to make it a day that neither mason , nor pesh would forget , they 'd gone by mcdonald 's afterwards so mason could play on the playground . the fact that pesh was so willing to do anything to make mason happy was slowly starting to crack megan 's tough resolve against dating him . it was n't just the fact that pesh was so wonderful with mason that had her reeling . when they talked , she shared more with him than she ever had with a man . he made it easy to open up to and speak of both the good and the bad in her life . he was such a good listener that she never felt like she was just rattling on and boring him . he truly seemed interested in everything she said . it was an amazing feeling . `` still doing okay over there ? '' pesh asked , bringing her out of her thoughts . `` fine . '' `` i wish you could see your face , '' he mused . `` do i have some dopey expression ? '' `` it is n't dopey . it 's wide-eyed wonderment like a kid on christmas morning . ''
`` oh , i would totally believe it since this certainly feels like a very big and very dangerous toy . '' `` it 's a wonderful sight to see . i 'm so glad i get to share this with you . '' he took one of her hands from the yoke and brought it to his mouth . as his lips kissed over her knuckles , she tensed . `` i need my hand back . i do n't feel like i have a good grip on the steering wheel like you said i should , '' she protested . pesh sighed and released her hand . `` how i regret telling you that tip now , '' he lamented . she smiled . `` that 's not fair to try and distract me . i need to focus , so we do n't crash . '' `` all right . i 'll keep my hands to myself ... for now . '' a shudder went through her at his words . at that moment if there was any way possible to actually fly the plane and bang him , she would have tried . shaking her head , she tried ridding herself of her inappropriate thoughts . she asked , pointing at a dark blip far down on the horizon . pesh leaned forward in his seat , peering out the windshield . `` looks like a storm cloud moving in . '' `` we should head back then . '' `` i do n't think it 's going to affect us . '' `` yeah , well , i do n't like the thought of trying to fly in a storm . '' `` then we 'll head back . '' `` which way should i turn the plane ? '' `` let 's take a right , '' pesh replied . megan bobbed her head and then turned the yoke at the same time she pressed on the right rudder pedal with her foot . keep it coming . we 're almost turned around . '' once they were facing the opposite direction , pesh said , `` now let 's bring up the speed . '' she did as she was told and waited for him to give her any further instructions . `` we 're good to go now . when we 're about ten minutes out from mccollum , you need to let the atc know we 're coming in . '' `` okay . `` do you have plans for this evening ? '' `` not that i know of . '' `` would you like to have dinner with me ? '' she nibbled on her bottom lip to keep from laughing at his formalness . `` i suppose so . do i get dessert afterwards ? '' his body tensed beside her .
`` are you implying that i 'm dessert , or that after we finish dinner i should get you dessert ? '' `` no , i want you for dessert . '' `` then you can have me . always . '' glancing over at him , she said , `` i might have to ask for a to-go box since i 'm assuming we 'll have mason with us . '' i enjoy spending time with him . '' megan could n't keep the smile off her face at pesh 's words . `` he really likes being with you , too . i 've never seen him warm up to a stranger as much as he has to you . '' `` i 'm a likeable guy , '' he teased . `` yeah , you are , '' she murmured , trying not to let the out-of-control fluttering of her heart make her think more than she should about him . pesh interrupted her thoughts by motioning to the controls . `` go ahead and start doing your landing checks . '' megan vaguely remembered what knobs and meters she had looked at before they took off . once she got through the landing checks with pesh 's help , they were getting closer to mccollum . `` now radio atc . '' `` um , okay , '' megan replied , nibbling on her lip . after clearing his throat , megan glanced over at pesh . he motioned to the yoke . `` oh , duh , '' she replied . with her thumb , she pressed the push-to-talk button . `` this is cessna 172 coming in for landing . '' before she could ask pesh if she had done it right , he relayed a different message over his push-to-talk . the atc 's response crackled over her headset . `` cessna 172 , this is ground control confirming you are clear to land . '' `` now push on the yoke to start the descent , '' pesh instructed . after she did what she was told , her eyes locked on the speedometer . `` should we be picking up this much speed ? '' `` yes and no , '' pesh replied . `` what the hell does that mean ? '' she asked , jerking her wild gaze to his . `` see the black knob there labeled 'throttle ' ? '' `` look at it this way . you know when you 're in a car and you 're going downhill , you pick up speed ? '' `` it 's the same thing in a plane .
but if you pull on the throttle knob , it reduces the engine power so there wo n't be an increase in speed . '' with her fingers grasping the black knob , megan asked , `` how hard do i need to pull on it ? '' `` try pulling back half-way . '' after pulling on the knob , megan eyed the speed . `` we 're slowing down . '' `` good . '' `` are we at ninety knots ? '' megan glanced down . `` okay , then lower the nose just a little bit . that will give us a glide-path or a controlled descent . '' megan eased on the steering wheel until the nose of the plane dipped below the horizon . `` now put the landing gear in the down position , '' pesh instructed . `` is that the button with the little tire on it ? '' `` yep , that 's the one . '' megan pressed it . `` using the steering wheel , roll the wings a little to the right , so we 're lined back up with the runway . '' megan turned the steering wheel to the right a little too abruptly . `` oops , '' she replied . just level it out . you always want your runway target spot to stay in the same fixed spot on the windshield . '' as megan stared ahead , she realized how close they were getting to the runway , and in turn , the ground . suddenly she was n't so sure if she could land the plane . it was one thing taking off , but it seemed like there was so much more that could go wrong when landing . `` u-uh , p-pesh , '' she stammered . he asked casually . `` i do n't think i can do this . '' she cut her eyes over to him . `` i ca n't land the plane . it 's too scary . '' `` yes , you can . '' megan shook her head furiously back and forth . `` no really . you need to take back the controls . i could cause us to crash . '' `` but i have faith in you . '' i would n't let you do this if i did n't think you could . '' she stole a glance at him , taking in his earnest expression . god , he really and truly believed in her . and it was n't just about the fact they were banging each other every chance they got alone . no , he saw through to the real her . after taking a deep breath , she felt herself slowly calming down . i 'll try , but i 'm not making any promises . '' `` that 's my girl , '' pesh replied .
`` what should i do now ? '' `` all right , now you need to pull the throttle all the way out as well as pulling back on the wheel to keep the nose from dipping . '' clearing her throat that felt as dry as sandpaper , megan jerked on the throttle button before pulling on the steering wheel . it was a little harder considering how sweaty her hands were . `` keep it steady . you 're doing great . '' as they came closer and closer to the runway , megan fought the urge to close her eyes , but she realized that would not be the right thing to do . instead , she braced herself for the impact . the moment the wheels hit the asphalt she shrieked and clutched at the steering wheel . `` do n't fight the bounce . we 're fine . you 're fine . '' they skidded along the pavement . `` okay , now ease up on the wheel and push on the tops of both pedals to apply the brakes . '' without thinking , megan stomped her feet , causing the plane to screech . `` easy , '' pesh said . she let her feet off the brakes , and they began to coast . `` now you 're going to bring it back into the hanger . '' `` oh , hell no ! i would end up mowing out the side of the building or another plane ! '' megan cried . pesh 's amused chuckle died quickly at the death glare she shot him . `` megan , you 'll do fine . you just landed a plane . i think you can handle pulling into a hanger . '' but when you have to file a huge insurance claim , i 'm going to say 'i told you so . ' '' `` we 'll see , '' he replied . she could tell he was fighting back a smile the way he kept biting down on his lip . `` all right , take a right here , '' he said , pointing to where the runaway split . she turned the wheel to the right and began easing her foot down on the brake when she saw the hangers come into view . `` which one is yours ? '' `` i share the third one . luckily for you , it 's pretty much a straight shot in . just watch out for my dad 's plane . '' megan jerked her horrified gaze over to his . `` i could be taking out your dad 's plane ? '' `` you 're not going to take out anyone 's plane , megan .
she gripped the steering wheel until her knuckles turned white . after taking a deep breath and giving herself a mental pep talk , she started slowly easing the plane inside the hanger . even though she was far away from the back wall , she hit the brakes . `` is this okay ? '' `` looks good to me . now you want to pull on the red knob . '' `` the one that says mixture ? '' `` yeah , that 's the one . it will kill the engine . '' when megan pulled on the knob , the plane shuddered into silence . she could n't help sitting absolutely frozen for a few moments , processing everything that had happened . pesh 's hand reached out to rub her shoulder . turning her head , she smiled . `` you were starting to worry me for a minute . '' `` i think i was worrying myself . '' pesh 's warm laugh made her tingle in parts it should n't . with the adrenaline depleting from her system , she knew exactly what she wanted to do . or maybe the more appropriate word was who she wanted to do . frantically , she unbuttoned her seat belt and dove over into his lap . `` megan , what in the hell are you doing ? '' her response to his question was to kiss him . greedily her mouth devoured his lips . as her tongue thrust into his mouth , her hand went between them to cup his growing erection . he groaned while she worked him over his pants . when she rose up on her knees to get a better grip of him , she banged her head against the ceiling of the plane . `` shit ! '' he asked , bringing his hands up to cup her now aching head . he snickered . `` the last thing you need is a concussion . how would we explain that one ? '' `` maybe turbulence during the flight ? '' `` you 're the one creating turbulence , '' he replied , a wicked gleam in his eyes . `` how are we going to do this ? '' `` backseat , '' he replied . with a nod , she began climbing over him into the small two seats in the back . as pesh unbuckled his seat belt , megan 's fingers furiously worked to get her jeans unzipped and unbuttoned . she was easing them down her thighs when his body came over hers . she once again claimed his mouth as pesh worked to get his own pants down . `` pocket . condom , '' he murmured against her lips .
she nodded and then reached her hand down to dig out the foil wrapper . during high school , she gotten used to ha*ng sx in cars , but this was taking it to a whole new level . somehow without being able to see him in the small confines of the plane 's backseat , she rolled the condom down pesh 's length . when she felt his hardness pressing against her core , she widened her legs as far as she could in the cramped quarters . with one quick thrust , he was buried deep inside her . she gripped his shoulders , pushing against him to keep from knocking back into the seat . considering where they were , there was no time for soft and sweet . instead , the sounds in the air were of skin slapping together as pesh 's movements were frantic against her . she loved every delicious minute of it , and it was n't too long before she felt herself going over the edge . her nails raked over his back as she screamed his name . with her walls milking pesh 's erection , he came with a shout , crushing her body with his . just when she thought she could n't breathe , he jerked back . `` are you okay ? '' `` i 'm fine , '' she replied . she cupped his cheek . `` really good now , thanks to you . '' he gave her the shy smile of his that warmed her all over . `` i 'm glad to hear that . '' `` um , dr . someone called outside the plane . `` oh shit , '' he muttered , as he slid out of her body . as he went about ridding himself of the condom and jerking his pants up , he called , `` yeah , trace ? '' `` i was just concerned about you considering you landed a few minutes ago and had n't deplaned . and then there was a lot of knocking going on inside the plane . '' megan 's hand flew over her mouth as she started giggling uncontrollably . it probably did n't help that as trace was talking , she had noticed that the windows of the plane were fogged up . `` i appreciate your concern , trace . i was just checking on some post-flight issues . i 'll be out in just a moment . '' as pesh finished and climbed into the front seat , megan hurried to get her jeans up . once she had them buttoned and zipped , she smoothed down her hair that had to look like she had just been f**ked against an airplane seat .
she slid into the passenger seat to find that pesh had opened the driver 's side and was talking to trace . trace 's gaze left pesh 's and came to hers . it took only a few seconds for him to put two and two together of what had actually been going on . he slowly started backing away from the plane . `` yeah , well , you two have a nice day then , '' he said . `` same to you , '' megan called , trying not to start giggling again . pesh shook his head as he hopped down out of the plane . let 's go before we get in any more trouble . '' `` but getting in trouble is so much fun , '' megan protested , as she opened her door . he grinned at her as he came around to meet her . `` you , my lovely , are a very bad influence . '' he wrapped his arms around her waist , drawing her close to him . `` but i 'm grateful for every moment i have with you . '' `` mmm , you know just how to flatter a girl , '' she said , before kissing him . after a few heated moments , pesh pulled away . `` considering this hanger has security cameras , let 's not totally give them all our secrets today . '' megan squealed and covered her mouth . `` did they ... can they ... ? '' `` not inside the backseat . '' she exhaled with relief . `` thank goodness . '' `` come on , little troublemaker . let 's go get something to eat . '' `` sounds good to me . '' with a wink , she added , `` especially if there 's dessert ! '' chapter sixteen a few days after her flying adventure and partial induction in the mile high club , megan had started to take a few scripts to the pharmacy when she was yanked by the arm and dragged into an examining room . `` what the ? '' she began , as the door was slammed behind her . instead of pesh before her , it was kristi . `` i need to have a word with you . '' anxiety bubbled in megan 's chest , and she had to take a few deep breaths before she could speak . `` have i done something wrong with a patient ? '' `` oh no , this has everything to do with dr . `` pesh ? what 's wrong with him ? '' `` it 's not what is wrong with him . it 's what is wrong with you . '' megan gulped . `` me ? '' `` i really like you , megan , but i am worried that you are just playing him .
it is cruel . he does n't deserve it . '' `` i do n't know what you mean . '' `` please do n't play coy . not only do i have two daughters around your age , but i 've spent enough time working with women to have a pretty good insight into the female mind . so , i 'll ask once again , what are you doing ? '' megan squirmed under the heat of kristi 's stare . if anyone found out that she and pesh were hooking up , it could be very bad for her nursing career . `` we 're friends . he 's my cousin 's godfather . '' let me speak as freely as i can since you insist on playing dumb . i do n't give two shits if you and pesh are screwing all over this hospital- '' megan was unable to contain her loud gasp . `` excuse me , but i- '' now it was kristi 's turn to interrupt . she held up her hands . `` let me finish please . '' `` fine , '' megan muttered . `` i realize that deep down he 's just a man , and after going a long time without sex , it was probably a little easier for him to give in to just a causal relationship with you . but i 've worked by his side for seven years , so i have a pretty good handle on what he 's truly feeling . '' `` oh really ? '' megan countered , unable to stop herself from being snarky . that man loves you with every fiber of his being . '' those words caused megan 's steely resolve to fade . she could n't help staggering a bit on her feet . she knew that pesh liked her-i mean , any fool could see that . but love ? `` h-he does ? '' `` oh yeah , he does . he 's been holding a candle for you since the moment you walked in here . i saw it the first day i introduced you two . i do n't know what has happened since that day , but i know something has changed for you , too . '' `` it 's true that i care about him . he 's the most amazing man i 've ever known . '' `` then what the hell is the problem ? '' `` i wish i could tell you , but i do n't even know myself , '' megan moaned as tears stung her eyes . `` dammit , stupid pms hormones . ''
`` oh honey , you do actually care about him , do n't you ? '' `` yes , '' she whispered . `` and you 're a wreck about what you 're feeling for him , are n't you ? '' megan could n't hold back the sobs any longer . they rolled through her , causing her to bend at the waist under the burden . kristi stepped forward , wrapping her arms around megan . even though she knew she should try to fight her emotions considering she was at work , she decided to let herself go and get it all out . when she finally had a hold of herself , she raised her head , wiping what she imagined were the hideous black mascara streaks off her face . that was so unprofessional of me . '' `` would you stop that , please ? this is n't an evaluation . besides , i 'm the one who pulled you in here and provoked you . you always keep your emotions in check out on the floor . '' `` the truth is i do care for pesh . how could i not ? i 'm just not sure i 'm the right woman for him . '' `` but if he loves you , how could you think you 're not the right one ? '' megan blurted out all the reasons she 'd previously given pesh about her age and her lack of wanting a committed relationship . when she finally finished unburdening herself of all her doubts and fears , she glanced up at kristi . there was no judgment in her eyes or anger for that matter . instead , she merely patted megan 's cheek . `` oh honey , you 've got to tune all those negative voices out and go with your heart . '' megan shook head . `` but what if i do n't know what my heart is telling me to do ? '' `` you will . just give it time . '' kristi patted her back . `` why do n't you go get cleaned up and then take your lunch break ? '' `` no , i need to make up for the time i 've missed . '' `` you 're fine . '' she motioned to the door . `` go on . see if dr. nadeen is on his way to lunch so you can join him . '' `` but i should n't . it wo n't look right if we 're alone together . '' kristi chuckled . `` alone together in a crowded hospital cafeteria ? i do n't think that 's possible . '' megan nibbled on her bottom lip and fought the urge to argue with kristi .
after all , if the very woman who was in charge of her clinical grade did n't give a shit about her and pesh being seen together , why should she ? finally , she just gave a defeated sigh . `` okay , i 'll go see . '' `` good girl . and you be listening to your heart now . `` i 'll try . although she spoke the words with such conviction of character , megan was afraid it was going to be harder than she thought . chapter seventeen when pesh arrived at work the following day , he found kristi alone in the nurses ' station . gazing around , he asked , `` where 's megan ? '' `` oh , she called in sick today . '' both disappointment and concern filled him . she had seemed a little off the night before when they had dinner together in the cafeteria . she was quieter and somewhat withdrawn . he had just chalked it up to the fact that they were sitting with some of the other staff and she was trying not to make things seem weird with them now . he wondered if he should call her and check to make sure she was okay . they were in such limbo together that even though it sounded like the right thing to do , he was n't sure . with a resigned sigh , he decided to leave things as they were and vowed to check on her tomorrow when she returned to work . as much as pesh hated to admit it , the day dragged mercilessly without megan . he went from patient to patient with a monotony he had n't felt in a long time . when his shift ended , he met kristi in the hallway . `` want me to walk you out ? '' he suggested . i 'd appreciate that . '' they started out the mechanized doors to the employee parking lot . to fill the quiet of their shoes echoing on the pavement , he said , `` i hated to hear that megan was n't feeling well . '' `` so did i . poor thing offered to pull a double tomorrow to make up for being gone . '' `` she sure is going to make a fine nurse . '' `` yes , she is . '' `` you 've taken a special interest in her , have n't you ? '' pesh 's steps momentarily faltered , and he stumbled . `` you know exactly what i mean . '' `` it is true that we know each other outside of the hospital , but when we 're in the er , our relationship is strictly professional . '' `` i never said it was n't . '' after gazing around the somewhat deserted parking lot , he shook his head . `` what you 're alluding to between me and megan ?
nothing good can come of those types of rumors . '' patting his arm , kristi smiled . `` there are no rumors-merely an observation by someone who loves and admires you . '' `` you do n't disapprove ? '' i think it 's a good match for both you and her . '' he remained silent for a few moments , contemplating her words . `` perhaps i should call and check on her . '' `` i think that would be a very good idea . '' she took her keys out of her purse and motioned at the honda they were standing in front of . `` well , this is me . '' `` have a good night , kristi . '' `` same to you , dr. nadeen . and good luck . '' when he got to his car , he slid inside and took his phone out . he scrolled through his contacts to find megan 's number . after he dialed , he anxiously drummed his fingers on the steering wheel . the call went to her voicemail , leaving him with a defeated feeling . although he knew it probably was n't the best idea in the world , he decided to go to her house to check on her . the moment he rang her parents ' doorbell he really regretted making a house call . one of her younger brothers answered . `` hey , what 's up ? '' `` hello . i 'm dr. nadeen . i work with megan . '' snapping his fingers , he pointed at pesh . `` wait , i know you . are n't you noah 's godfather ? '' `` cool . listen man , megan 's downstairs . if you go around the side of the house , she has her own door . '' thank you then . '' `` no problem . '' when the door closed , pesh debated going straight to his car . but he knew it would look even worse if her brother told her he had been there and then he had left without seeing her . heaving a frustrated breath , he headed off the porch . he followed the sidewalk around the house to where it sloped down the hill . at the side door , he knocked loudly . when the door flew open , megan stared at him in a mixture of both surprise and horror . `` what are you doing here ? '' she demanded . pesh shoved his hands in his pockets . `` you called in sick today . i was worried . ''
he fought the urge to say that by her disheveled appearance and dark circles under her eyes , she most certainly did n't seem fine . `` i tried calling you , but you did n't answer . kristi and i were worried about you . '' her expression softened a little . i must 've forgotten to charge my phone . '' `` can i get you something to eat ? some soup maybe ? '' `` really , i 'm fine . '' `` but you look so pale . will you let me do an exam ? you know the flu is- '' `` i do n't have the flu . '' `` how can you be sure if you have n't been checked ? did you get the flu shot at the hospital ? sometimes it can give you a mild case . '' she shook her head and smiled . `` i do n't have the flu . since you 're going to keep on and on , i 'm going to go ahead and tell you . i have really horrendous cramps with my period . usually , i can manage them with birth control , but when i started clinicals and stopped working , i could n't afford the birth control without health insurance . and it was n't like i was ha*ng sx anyway . '' while he appreciated her honesty , he was also slightly mortified . `` oh , i see . '' `` i 'm sorry to have embarrassed you , '' megan said . he waved his hand dismissively . `` listen , when you return to work tomorrow , there will be a script for you for birth control . i do n't like the idea of you in pain , so i do n't want this to happen next month . '' `` but the money , '' she protested . `` it will be discounted through the hospital pharmacy . '' `` thank you , pesh . that 's a very decent thing for you to do . '' a blonde head peeked around megan . `` hi esh . you play ? '' he smiled at mason . `` i came to check on your mommy . '' mason tilted his chin to look up at megan . `` her tummy hurts . she no play . u play ? '' `` um , well ... '' he wanted nothing more than to spend time with mason , and in the same token , with megan as well . but he was also walking such a fine line with her that he did n't want to come on too strong and scare her off . `` i 'm not sure your mommy feels up to company . '' `` if you really do n't mind staying , we 'd love to have you . ''
`` are you certain ? '' `` okay then . '' mason grabbed his hand and led him through the door . pesh took in the cozy decor of the basement apartment . in one chair , megan 's textbooks and papers were strewn around , while on the floor it looked like a tornado had blown through the living room with all the toys lying around . when he met her gaze , she flushed . `` sorry it 's such a mess . '' `` it 's fine . '' `` are you hungry ? '' `` no , i 'm good , '' he lied , as his stomach rumbled . megan cocked her head and shot him a look . `` sit down and let me fix you something . '' `` not with you feeling unwell . '' `` although i wish i could cook you something , i think i 'm up to reheating some of the pizza we ordered today , or there are some homemade enchiladas i made last night , '' she replied , as she opened the fridge . `` enchiladas would be lovely . '' she smiled and took out a casserole dish . `` you hungry , mace ? '' `` mmm , hmm , '' he murmured , barely looking up at his mother from one of his toys . after spooning out two heaping plates full , along with some rice , she put it in the microwave . she then motioned for him to have a seat at the table . `` you do n't need to wait on me . '' `` just shut up and let me take care of you for two seconds . '' her words reminded him of when she had cleaned his wounds after dev 's punch . no matter what the situation , she was always ready to be there for him and take care of him . the microwave beeped and brought him out of his thoughts . mason hurried over to the table and sat down beside pesh in his booster seat . when megan put down the steaming plates , he reached for her hand and kissed it . a funny look passed in her eyes before she smiled . `` wo n't you sit with us ? '' `` actually , i would love to take a warm bath . you know , to see if it would help relax my muscles . '' `` i 'll be happy to keep an eye on mason while you do that . '' `` you do n't mind ? '' `` of course i do n't . '' `` thanks . i really appreciate it . ''
she kissed the top of mason 's head , and then kissed his cheek . she turned to start into the bedroom before whirling back around . he lowered his fork at the expression on her face . placing her hands on his cheeks , she leaned in and laid a big one on him . he could n't hide his surprise . when she pulled away , she grinned at his speechlessness . `` i wo n't be long , '' she said . once the bedroom door closed behind her , pesh gazed over at mason . `` what do you want to do when we finish eating ? '' `` minions , '' he mumbled through a mouthful of food . pesh furrowed his brows in confusion . `` what 's minions ? '' hopping down off his chair , mason ran over to the tv . when he returned , he had a dvd box in his hand . he pointed to some yellow blobs on the cover . `` minions . '' `` ah , i see . you want to watch this . '' mason bobbed his head . `` is it your favorite ? '' `` uh , huh , '' mason replied . `` then i guess we better eat fast so we can watch it . '' at mason 's beaming grin , pesh felt a little tug in his chest . even though he should n't , he already had strong feelings for the little boy . from almost the moment they 'd met , mason had let pesh into his world . the sound of a fork clattering on a plate brought pesh out of his thoughts . `` done ! '' mason exclaimed , hopping out of his chair . although pesh was n't finished , mason grabbed his hand and led him from the table . instead of arguing with him , pesh just let himself be dragged over to the tv . once he got the movie on , they settled down on the couch . he could n't fight the warmth that spread through his chest when mason snuggled close to his side . instead , he just embraced the feeling and let happiness override the doubt that screamed in his mind . under the strong , warm jets of the jacuzzi tub , megan 's pain started to fade . of course , as much as she tried to relax , it was too hard considering that pesh was in her living room . she could n't believe that he had shown up out of the blue to check on her . just when she thought he could n't be any kinder or more attentive , he did something like that .
tilting her neck on the foam headrest , she thought about her talk with kristi the day before . she hated to admit it , but she knew she had a choice to make . she either had to let go of pesh , or she had to make things official with him . they could n't just keep dating and hooking up ... or was it just hooking up ? with a frustrated groan , she shifted in the tub , sloshing the water around . closing her eyes , she tried to search her heart for how she truly felt . no man had ever made her feel like felt with pesh , and that could be said both inside and out of the bedroom . gazing down at her pruning fingers , she knew it was time to get out of the tub . she could stay there for days and still not have the answer she so desperately sought . after she toweled off and wrapped herself in her terry cloth robe , she went out into the bedroom . as she threw on a fresh pair of pajama pants and a t-shirt , she noticed it was awfully quiet in the living room . wondering what mason and pesh could be doing , she ducked out of the bedroom . the sight across from her on the couch made her chest clench with emotion . reaching up , she clutched her t-shirt over her heart , trying to still some of the ache that burned there . with the strains of despicable me playing in the background , pesh lay on his back with mason on top of him . her son 's face was snuggled into pesh 's chest , and he was sound asleep . they both were . pesh 's face was tilted down , his nose pressed into the strands of mason 's hair . before she could harden herself to the emotions coursing through her , tears stung her eyes . in that moment , she allowed herself to fantasize that this was truly her life . she had a loving husband who adored her , and her son had an attentive and doting father . what more could she ask for in life ? in those minutes of weakness , she wondered why she had been fighting pesh so hard about a relationship . besides her own happiness , there was nothing more in the world that she wanted than for mason to be safe and happy . as she came crashing back to reality , she saw things clearly for the first time in a long time . pesh had been so worried about her that he 'd driven over just to check on her .
she 'd never had a boyfriend who cared about her that much , and no matter how hard she searched in the future , she was probably never going to find another man like pesh . there were so many things about him that she liked ... maybe even loved . he made her want to get up in the mornings , so she could see him at work . she found herself anxiously checking her phone to see if she had a text from him . she loved spending time with him . but it was more than just the feelings that pesh felt for her or that she felt for him-it was the fact that he cared so much about her son . they were a package deal for any future man , and he had willingly embraced that fact without complaint . on shaky legs , she walked over to the couch . as she stood over the two of them , she could n't help reaching out her hand and tenderly touching pesh 's cheek . he stirred at the contact . when his eyelids fluttered open , she smiled at him . his gaze spun around the room like he was trying hard to remember where he was . when he glanced down at mason , realization washed over his face . i did n't mean to fall asleep . '' i 'm sure you needed it . besides , i took too long in the tub . '' `` i would argue that you need it as well . '' bending over , she slid her hand under mason 's stomach while the other went under his legs . she hoisted him up and into her arms . when he whimpered , she murmured , `` shh , mommy 's going to put you to bed . '' `` night , night , pesh , '' mason mumbled drowsily . `` good night , little man , '' pesh replied . once she had tucked mason in and kissed his cheek , she closed his bedroom door and returned to the living room . pesh sat hunched over on the edge of one of the couch cushions , as if he were planning to leave as soon as she came back . `` out like a light the moment i put him down . '' when he started to stand up , she pushed him back down on the couch . easing down onto his lap , she wrapped her arms around his neck . he brought his hand up to rub lazy circles over her back . she did n't speak for a few minutes . instead , she just enjoyed being close to him , the feel of his hand on her , his strong , muscled thighs beneath her . `` thank you for coming over tonight . '' i was afraid i was overstepping my bounds . ''
raking her fingers through his dark hair , she shook her head . `` i think we need to talk about our boundaries . '' `` you coming over here tonight made me realize something very important . what we 've been doing has been fun , and i 've enjoyed every minute of it . but now- '' pesh 's dark eyes snapped shut , and the expression on his face shifted as if he were in pain . you do n't have to say this . i 'll just go . '' `` but i do n't want you to go , '' she argued . `` then what are you trying to say ? '' `` that i need you in my life , and i want more . '' his brows shot up . `` more ? as in more of us together ? '' he sucked in a breath . `` you want us to be an official couple ? '' well , everywhere except work . '' `` i ca n't believe it , '' he murmured . `` this is n't exactly the reaction i thought you would have , '' she teased . `` oh , i 'm happy . trust me . i 'm just shocked , that 's all . '' she brought her lips to his and gave him a tender kiss . against his lips , she murmured , `` can you ever forgive me for being so stubborn and so stupid ? '' `` i can try . but i suppose you 're going to have to work very hard to make it up to me . '' `` yes , very hard . '' `` why do i have the funny feeling that your idea of me making it up to you is entirely different than mine ? '' `` no more orgasms for dates . just dates . '' `` i can handle that . '' a wicked gleam flashed in pesh 's eyes . `` the first date will be to the fox to see an opera . '' she groaned . `` you do n't play fair . '' he ran his hands up her sides , causing her to shiver . `` i would have to argue that you have n't been playing fair all along . now it 's my turn . '' `` are you going to punish me ? '' she questioned in a whisper . `` mmm , hmm , there will lots of dates and lots of time spent together . '' he quirked a brow at her . `` a true hell on earth . '' she could n't help giggling . `` i 'll be a good girl and take it . '' `` i 'm glad to hear it . ''
as they lapsed into silence , megan 's fingers wound through the hair at the base of his neck . `` do you want to stay the night with me ? '' pesh 's brows furrowed as if silently questioning her proposal . `` but you- '' `` no sex . just sleeping . '' `` you think that 's a good idea with mason ? '' `` we 're a couple now . he 's going to be seeing a lot of you . '' staring into his eyes , she asked , `` so you 'll stay ? '' `` it would be a pleasure . '' without another word , she rose off his lap . after he got up off the sofa , she took him by the hand and led him to her bedroom . as she sat on the edge of the mattress , she watched as pesh stripped down to his boxer shorts . when he was finished , he walked slowly over to her . `` i 'm sorry we ca n't do anything else . '' he brushed the hair out of her face and cupped her cheeks . i 'm happy just to be with you . '' in her heart , she was happy as well and not just about him staying the night . but for how everything between them had worked out . `` so am i , '' she murmured before lying back on the bed . `` so am i . '' chapter eighteen for megan , the next few weeks flew by . she did n't know if it was because she was so busy at work , or it was because she was so happy being with pesh . she liked to think it was the latter . or maybe it was that she was busy being with pesh . on her off days and his , they spent every second together . most often , he came to her house . they made dinner together or they went out . although her parents did n't entirely approve , he slept over as well . what they did n't know is that some nights nothing illicit even happened between them . exhausted from the day 's events , they merely enjoyed lying in each other 's arms . as she came out of a patient 's room , she glanced up to see pesh standing across the hall talking to another doctor . for just a moment , his gaze met hers , and although no one else could have possibly noticed it , she saw the longing and the affection . she gave him a brief nod before walking on to the nurses ' station . since they had become a couple , their time at work had become almost a game of wills to pretend there was nothing going on between them .
most days , it was harder than megan could have ever imagined not to burst out in a smile whenever she saw him or to resist the urge not to wrap her arms around him . but somehow they made it work . in the end , the pent up emotions that were suppressed during the day made for a lot of heated fireworks in the evenings . megan 's thoughts were interrupted at the buzzing of her phone . when she glanced down at it , she grinned . it was pesh . it killed me not to be able to kiss you a moment ago . i know . me too . dinner at my place tonight ? u cooking ? yeah . indian food . mmm , sounds good . what time ? '' 7 . does mason like indian food ? megan eyed his text thoughtfully . the last three times she had been with pesh , mason had been with them as well . pesh never seemed to mind , but megan wanted a night with just him . a true date night . not sure . will get my parents or papa to babysit . you do n't have to do that . i want to . okay . see you at 7 . bye . she had just slipped her phone back in her pocket when she was ambushed by kara . since the day she 'd seen kara grope pesh in the hallway , megan had loathed the sight of her . she had managed to keep her distance from her at work , but lately , she noticed that kara had been creeping around , staring at her . `` can i do something for you ? '' megan asked politely . `` yeah , for starters , you can drop the sugar sweet act . i know how you feel about me . '' megan fought the urge to roll her eyes . instead , she crossed her arms over her chest . what do you need kara ? '' kara glanced around them before she spoke . `` i want you to back off of pesh . '' narrowing her eyes , kara said , `` i know you 're into him . i can see it in the way you look at him ... it 's in the way he looks at you , too . and i do n't like it . '' `` well , i 'm terribly sorry that you do n't , but frankly , i do n't see how any of that is any of your business . '' `` oh , he is very much my business considering we 've been together . '' whatever , '' megan replied , feeling slightly shattered by kara 's proclamation . in the rational side of her mind , she knew there was no way pesh could be involved with kara .
but at the moment , it was the irrational side that seemed to be winning out over whether pesh was truly hers . kara jerked her chin in the air . `` besides the fact of what pesh and i are to each other , i 'm sure it would be very interesting business to your professor . last time i checked , a nursing candidate was n't supposed to get involved with a doctor . bad for one 's reputation . '' `` are you threatening me ? '' after a casual shrug of her shoulders , kara replied , `` just stating facts . you do n't impress me as one of those bimbo girls who likes to be used by a man for sex , which i 'm afraid that 's exactly what pesh is doing with you . but more than not wanting to be a sex toy , i imagine you would n't want to do anything to harm your future career . '' `` i 'm not discussing this any further , '' megan muttered , as she started past her . `` i wo n't be either as long as you stay away from pesh . '' without giving kara a final glance , megan continued walking down the hallway . she did n't know where she was going , but she knew she wanted to put as much distance as she could between herself and kara . the rest of the day she felt haunted by kara 's words . more than anything , she could n't wait until she could be alone with pesh to talk to him about it . pesh jerked his head up at the loud bang behind him . the garage door leading into the kitchen was thrown open with such a force that it rattled on its hinges . megan stalked into the room , her mouth turned down in a determined frown . she threw her purse down onto the floor beside one of the bar stools . with a frustrated breath , she blew back a few errant strands of blonde hair that had escaped the loose knot at the back of her neck . `` bad day ? '' he asked , with thinly veiled amusement . she glared at him . `` yes , as a matter of fact it was . '' `` well , where do i start ? when i went to drop mason off at papa 's house , there was a woman there with him . '' pesh 's brows rose in surprise . `` patrick is dating ? '' `` he claims she's- '' megan paused to make air quotes with her fingers , `` just a friend . but i do n't buy it . '' as he stirred the rice , he glanced at her over his shoulder .
`` would it be wrong if he were dating ? '' a long sigh escaped megan 's lips . `` no , he deserves to be happy . my nana has been dead for six years , so it 's not like he raced out the moment he was free and started going through women like kleenex . '' pesh chuckled at her summation . `` did you not like her ? '' crossing her arms over her chest , megan replied , `` that 's the other part . she seemed really nice . and mason loves her . i guess she 's been there before when he stayed with papa . '' after abandoning his place by the stove , pesh placed his hands on the marble countertop and leaned in close to megan . `` it sounds to me like patrick has found a good woman who loves him and his family . i do n't think you could ask for a better scenario . '' she stared into his eyes for a moment before she smiled . `` you 're right . i do n't know why i got so upset about it all . '' `` because as much as you love your grandfather , you 're still protective of your grandmother 's memory . '' `` you 're so wise , '' she murmured . `` it comes with age , '' he replied , with a wink . `` whatever . '' he gave her a quick kiss on the lips before returning to the stove . `` so besides patrick 's new lady friend , what else happened to get you so upset ? '' when megan did n't reply , pesh turned around . `` what else is it ? '' `` you need to have a serious discussion with kara . '' `` i do ? '' `` yes , you do . '' `` megan , you do remember that i 'm not in charge of nurses . '' she rolled her eyes . `` yes , i realize that . but you are in charge of your dick , are you not ? '' crossing her arms over her chest , megan said , `` kara seems to think that the two of you are an item . '' `` oh that 's nonsense . we 're just friends from working together . '' megan narrowed her eyes suspiciously at him . `` you 've never seen her outside of work ? '' this was one area of questioning he had n't bargained on ever having to answer . the truth was something he really did n't want to admit to megan .
carefully choosing his words , he replied , `` we got together for drinks a couple of times after work a few months back . i hardly think that categorizes us as an 'item . ' '' `` it must be enough for her to think she can tell me that you 're only using me for sex . '' pesh winced at the words . he would have never taken kara for being someone who was jealous . he put down the spatula and turned off the stove . he knew he could n't go forward without coming clean . `` megan , i have n't been honest with you . '' `` i told you that kara and i had only had drinks a couple of times . but that is n't the whole truth . '' `` what are you saying ? '' defeated , his shoulders drooped a little . `` after the night of noah 's baptism , i could n't get you off my mind . i wanted to prove to myself that i was n't so enamored by you . so after having a couple of drinks one night , kara and i went to my car and fooled around . '' `` you got drunk ? '' he gave a mirthless laugh . `` that is what is most shocking to you in what i just told you ? '' `` did you think i would be mad at you for messing around with some woman when we were n't dating ? '' `` yes , '' he answered honestly . `` what you did then was your business . i mean , i 'm not thrilled to hear that you fooled around with her , especially since you would n't sleep with me when i asked you to . '' `` but do n't you see the difference ? i cared for you , and i cared nothing for her . we were barely in the car fifteen minutes if that tells you anything . '' the corners of her lips tugged up in a small smile . `` i really do n't need the details of how much you did n't enjoy yourself . '' he ducked his head . i should n't have said that . '' `` but at the same time , i 'm glad to hear that you wo n't be going back for a repeat performance . '' jerking his gaze up to meet hers , he replied , `` never could i do that . '' `` and you really were trying to get me off your mind ? '' `` yes , i was . '' `` in a warped way , that 's very romantic , '' she teased . `` i 'm glad you think so , '' he mumbled .
`` look , it 's not the fact that she said you were using me for sex that has me so upset . '' `` it 's not ? '' `` she threatened me . '' pesh 's eyes narrowed . `` physically ? '' she said that if i did n't watch my back , she would report me to the dean . '' a low growl erupted from pesh 's chest . `` she seriously said that ? '' `` yes , she did . '' `` i 'm sorry that her jealousy and spitefulness is rearing its head . i never imagined she was such a person when i ... well , when i got involved with her . i 'll make sure to speak to her . no one should have to work in a hostile environment , and she must understand that just because of her seniority , she is not allowed to harass you . '' pesh watched megan fidget on her feet while nibbling on her bottom lip . `` do you not want me to speak to her ? '' `` no , that 's fine . it 's just ... '' `` is there something else ? '' `` you know how much i like you . i mean , the very fact i agreed to date you shows how much i 'm committed to you . '' pesh crossed his arms over his chest . `` i 'm thinking there 's a 'but ' coming that i 'm not going to like . '' `` but at the same time , whatever it is that is happening between us ... '' she swallowed hard . `` i 've worked really hard in school , pesh . i do n't want anything on my record that could hurt my chances of getting a job . '' if she was the crying type , he would have sworn her eyes shimmered with tears . he came around the counter to pull her into his arms . `` hey now , do n't you worry one bit about getting into trouble . anyone who has seen you in action on the floor knows what a talented and gifted nurse you are . '' she sniffled . `` if there 's even a rumor of me having an affair with an attending physician , i could be blacklisted . '' pesh pulled away to grip her chin in his fingers . `` after i speak to kara , you will have nothing to worry about , okay ? '' he could tell that even though she wanted to relax and let go of her anxiety , she could n't . let 's fix you up . '' she wiped her eyes . with a wink , he went over to the cabinet and got down a wine glass .
then he poured some white wine into the glass before setting it down on the bar . `` take that . '' megan glanced at the glass and then back at him . `` are you trying to ply me with wine ? '' she leaned forward and picked it up . he watched as she could n't resist the temptation and she took a hearty gulp . closing her eyes , she murmured , `` that 's so good . '' `` i 'm glad you like it . '' he walked around the counter again . this time he took her free hand . `` come on . '' `` where are we going ? '' `` for part two of your relaxation . '' megan smiled at him before he began tugging her down the hall . when he got into the bedroom , he noticed her sigh of frustration when they bypassed the bed for the bathroom . `` while i finish dinner for us , you need to soak in a nice , hot bath . '' `` you spoil me , '' she protested with a smile . he gave her a playful wink before turning on the bath water . once he got the temperature right , he turned back to her . `` bubbles ? bath salt ? '' she raised her brows . `` do n't tell me you actually have those ? i mean , i know you 're a metrosexual but really ? '' `` we all have our secrets , '' he replied . he did n't have the heart to tell her that he had kept some of jade 's bath and body works stuff . he might 've tried to bury them under the bathroom counter to get them out of sight and out of mind , but they were still there . he rummaged around to pull out a vanilla bottle as well as a peach . he held them up to megan for her approval . `` hmm , vanilla . '' `` good choice . '' it was the one scent that did n't remind him of jade since she never used it . he poured a healthy cupful under the water , letting the foam magnify . `` ready to get in ? '' megan glanced down at herself before looking back at him . `` well , i seem to still be dressed . '' pesh cocked his head at her . `` oh really ? i can help you with that . '' he took the wine glass from her and sat it on the counter . his fingers came to the hem of her shirt . without taking his eyes off of hers , he jerked it up and over her head . he gazed down at her simple , white bra .
she sucked in a breath when his fingers skimmed her abdomen before he gripped the waistband of her scrubs and tugged them down . she stepped out of the pants , standing before him in only her bra and skimpy thong . taking her by the shoulders , he gently turned her around . his fingers trailed down her back to the clasp of her bra . once he unhooked it , he brought his hands up to slide it off her shoulders . unable to resist the softness of her skin , he bent his head to kiss along her back . as he dropped the bra to the floor , his hands skimmed up her ribcage to cup her brsts . `` mmm , '' megan murmured , letting her head fall back against his chest . `` i 'm only supposed to be undressing you , '' he argued , as he let her brsts fall free of his hands . she immediately picked them up and brought them back to cup her flesh . `` i like the way you undress me . it 's very relaxing . '' rolling her puckered niles between his fingers , he was rewarded with her gasp of pleasure . `` the water is getting cold , '' he warned . `` i 'm getting so hot , i can warm it up . '' he chuckled against her ear before taking his hands away from her . as she whined in protest , his fingers jerked her thong down over her thighs . she raised her feet to step out of the underwear . get in . '' `` tease , '' she muttered , before walking over to the tub . he only got to admire her nad backside for a moment before she lowered herself into the tub and disappeared under the foam . leaning back against the wall , she closed her eyes in bliss . `` this feels amazing . '' `` but you know what would feel even better ? '' her eyes popped open , and she smiled invitingly up at him . `` if you were in here with me . '' `` i should be finishing dinner , '' he argued , feebly . megan eyed the growing bulge in his pants . `` i think you should be in here letting me finish you . '' he threw his head back and laughed . you drive a hard bargain , my lady . '' he quickly unbuttoned and took off his shirt . then his fingers went to the button and zipper on his pants . he slid them and his boxers down and stepped out of them , leaving him naked . megan did n't take her eyes off him the whole time .
he shifted them in the water , bringing megan up to straddle him , but she was facing away from him . he brought his hands to her shoulders and started massaging the tense muscles . `` helping you relax . '' she ground herself against his erection . `` i was hoping a couple of orgasms would do that instead . '' `` do n't you believe in foreplay ? '' `` yes , but not when i 'm this horny . '' bending his head , he let his warm breath tickle her outer ear . `` you , my love , are never going to be a candidate for tantric sex . you will never allow yourself to enjoy delayed pleasure and release . '' `` i want to try-honest , i do . '' `` but just not this evening , right ? '' one of his hands abandoned her shoulder to slide down in between her legs . she gasped as his thumb rubbed against her clit . as he continued stroking her with his thumb , he pushed two fingers into her slick passage . megan whimpered and thrust her hps against him . pesh kissed and licked her wet neck and back as he pumped his fingers in and out of her . `` does that feel good ? '' `` yes , oh yes , '' she murmured . he increased the pressure of his thumb , and megan shrieked , bucking her hps faster and faster against his fingers . when his other hand cupped and kneaded her breast , she cried out and came , her walls clenching against his fingers . once she finished shuddering , she collapsed back against him . `` feeling better now ? '' she twisted her body around to where she was facing him . `` i want you inside me the next time i come . '' she rose up and then took his erection in her hand . while keeping her eyes on his , she guided him into her core . slowly , she sunk inch by inch on him . when she was fully seated , they both moaned at the feeling . at the intensity of what he felt inside her , pesh was thankful she had taken him up on the birth control script where he did n't have to use condoms anymore . she brought her hands up to his shoulders , and then she began to ride him . his hands came to grip her waist as his head bent forward to suckle one of her ni**les into his mouth . his teeth grazed the bud before his tongue flicked and teased it into a hardened point . throwing her head back , megan 's walls tensed and convulsed around him .
he knew he had a long way to go before he was going to come . once she recovered , megan panted as she started riding him faster , causing the water to slosh around them . as his mouth latched onto her other breast , megan threw her head back and moaned . `` harder , '' she urged . pesh continued sucking her nipple as he began to thrust his hps up in time to meet her movements . each time he went a little deeper , and it caused megan to be more and more vocal . she tugged at the strands of his hair and clawed at his chest as she strove harder and harder for her orgasm . `` please , please , '' she panted , as her hands came to cup her own brsts . as she pinched and tweaked her own niles , it was pesh 's undoing . shoving his hand down between her legs , he flicked her clit , sending her over the edge again . her movements caused him to jerk once and then come in her . once he finished shuddering and came back to himself , megan stared at him with an utterly satiated expression . `` that was ... amazing . '' `` where did a nice boy like you learn to f*k ? '' pesh chuckled at her choice of language . `` you know , a person 's reputation has nothing to do with how they are in the bedroom . i 'm sure there are many tough biker dudes out there who would n't know a clitoris from a labia-if they even knew that terminology . '' `` hmm , i suppose that 's true . my ex liked to think he was a ladies man , but half of the time , i had to take matters into my own hands if i was going to finish . '' she shot him a wicked grin . `` thankfully , i have a lover now who has the most amazing tongue and dick . i never have to worry about coming now . '' `` and do n't you forget how amazing he is . '' her expression turned solemn as she replied , `` i could never forget his attributes both in and out of the bedroom . '' after he gave her a somewhat chaste kiss , he asked , `` how about we test out my kitchen attributes now ? '' `` sounds good . i 'm starving , '' she replied , as she climbed out of the tub . pesh followed her out , handing her one of his plush towels . after she finished drying off , he gave her a terry cloth robe to put on .
she slid it on and tied the front together . `` wait here . i 'll bring it to you . '' `` dinner in bed ? that would be marvelous . '' he winked before heading out of the bedroom . he fixed two heaping platefuls of food . after putting the plates on a tray , he got two bottles of water out of the fridge . when he got back to the bedroom , he found her lounging back against the pillows with an expression of pure relaxation . after he set the tray down on the bed , he smiled . `` i want to try something with you . '' he undid the ties on his robe , letting it fall open . after shrugging it off his shoulders , he stood nad before her . without answering her , he climbed onto the bed . his hands went to the lapels on her robe . he opened them and then pushed the robe open to her waist . `` i thought we were eating dinner , '' she murmured huskily . `` we are . '' while her brows furrowed in confusion , he passed her a plate and a fork . then he took his . `` pesh , why are we eating dinner naked ? '' `` i want to teach you about delayed gratification . '' `` the tantric stuff ? '' she eyed him curiously . `` look into my eyes , '' he commanded . when her blazing blue eyes were trained on his , he brought a forkful of food to her mouth . `` open up , '' he said . her gaze held his as her tongue darted out , tentatively tasting the spicy rice . when she decided that she liked it , her mouth clamped over the fork . as she chewed , she still remained staring at him . `` feed me , '' he insisted . she momentarily broke their eye contact to stare down at the plate . she speared a piece of lamb before bringing it to his mouth . after he took in the bite , his tongue slid over his lips , licking up the remaining sauce . something stirred in her at his action-a slight tremble . he brought a piece of lamb to her mouth , and she wrinkled her nose . `` i do n't like lamb . '' he nodded and then took the bite for himself . he then picked some of the vegetables and brought them to her . this time she took the forkful . `` it 's very good , pesh . '' each time she took the fork into her mouth , he could n't help imagining that it was his ck instead .
sitting nad with her in such a close proximity had his juices beginning to flow . when she lowered her gaze to eye her plate for his next bite , she caught sight of his growing erection . immediately , she started to put her plate down , but he stopped her . `` not yet . '' `` but you 're hard , and i 'm getting wet sitting here with you staring at me like you 're already buried inside me . '' `` that 's the point , my love . how good do you think it 's going to be when i do finally get inside you ? '' as she swept up a forkful of rice , she brought it to his mouth . `` so how long do we do this ? '' `` until we clean our plates . '' she appeared both disappointed and frustrated at his response . to give her something else to focus on , he brought the fork to her mouth . she took from him , chewing methodically while staring into his eyes . each time he fed her a bite , he tried conveying through his gaze what he was imagining doing to her . a bite of vegetables had him sucking her breast , his tongue flicking over her nipple . a forkful of rice had his face buried in her wet core as he licked her juices . as she chewed and swallowed , pesh could tell desire was overtaking her . `` can i have some water ? '' with a nod , he brought one of the bottles to her lips . she drank in long gulps , her eyes never leaving his . when she finished swallowing , she gave him a grateful smile . then in a flash , she tackled him , causing his plate to flip over onto the sheets . `` megan ! '' he cried . she was too busy kicking out of her robe to care . at the sight of smeared vegetables and rice on the sheet next to him , he began to laugh . his chest shook so hard that he wanted to clutch his stomach , but megan 's body was in the way . as she gazed down at him , he pushed the long , blonde strands of hair out of her face . `` i do n't believe we were finished eating , '' he chastised . she drew his bottom lip between her teeth , causing him to groan . at the same time , her wet core ground against his cock . `` i guess you 'll just have to punish me the next time , '' she replied . cupping her buocks , he sent a resounding smack against one of her cheeks . her eyes widened .
`` pesh nadeen , did you actually just spank my ass ? '' he grinned up at her before smacking the other cheek . `` mmm , i like this side of you , '' she murmured , before bringing her lips to his . as their tongues battled against each other , pesh flipped megan over onto her back . after spreading her legs , he buried himself deep inside her with one thrust . `` oh god , that feels amazing , '' she cried . `` see how much better it is when you wait ? '' he questioned , as he leisurely moved in and out of her . `` yes , mmm , it 's so good . you 're right . '' although her body trembled , she was n't close yet . he continued his pace of slow strokes within her . then he took her legs and put them on his shoulders to where he could pump deeper inside her . she moaned at the feeling , her hands sliding up above her head to grip the sheets . pesh ducked his head to bring his mouth to her brsts , alternating between each one . as he felt her begin to tense up , he increased the pressure of his tongue on her niles , lightly grazing them with his teeth . and then she came apart beneath him , crying out and clasping her hands onto his shoulders . the sight of her was so alluring he could n't hold back , and he came in a rush inside her . when he 'd finished shuddering , he raised his head to gaze down at her . her eyelids fluttered open , and then she smiled sheepishly up at him . `` sorry for being a tantric sex failure . '' `` baby , i do n't care about that one bit . i like the fact you 're aggressive when it comes to f**king . '' her hands feathered over his back and down to his ass . as she squeezed his cheeks , he sucked in a breath . `` you 're very good at that . '' `` you think so ? '' `` how good are you at laundry ? '' he asked , motioning to the leftover dinner that was now staining the sheets . she swatted his ass playfully . `` i was planning on taking care of that . '' `` why do n't we get dressed and then sit down and really eat ? '' `` i think that sounds like a good idea . '' i want to make sure you 're feeling your best for what i have to ask you . '' as he pulled himself off megan , her brows furrowed .
`` ca n't it wait until we finish eating ? '' rolling her eyes , megan said , `` you know i ca n't wait for things . '' pesh sighed as he bent down to pick up his robe . as he slid his arm through the hole , he met megan 's questioning gaze . `` i wanted to invite you to dinner at my sister 's house this weekend . '' `` why did you think i would need to be feeling my best for that ? '' `` it wo n't just be my sister and her husband . all of my family will be there , including my parents . '' `` you want to introduce me to your parents ? '' she nibbled on her bottom lip as she was prone to do when she was nervous . `` but that would mean we 're pretty serious , right ? '' `` yes , '' he replied , with utter certainty . scooting to the edge of the bed , she gripped her gaping robe as best she could . she stared up at him . `` you 're not the least bit worried what they 're going to say about you dating me ? '' the corners of her lips tugged up in a smile . `` then i 'll go , '' she said softly . when she bobbed her head , he rushed forward to wrap her in his arms . `` thank you , my love . you 've made me very happy . '' `` you make me happy every day . it 's the least i can do . '' with her head buried in pesh 's chest , she was finally able to let the smile she had plastered on fade into a frown . while she should have been elated that pesh wanted to introduce her to his family , she could n't help feeling overwhelmed . what if they hated her ? what if their dislike caused pesh to not want to see her anymore ? she did n't want to think about what it would be like not having him in her life . at the same time , it was hard processing all the emotions that pesh 's devotion made her feel . davis had never wanted to introduce her to his parents . she met them by accident after one of his games . now she had a man who wanted nothing more than to share all aspects of his life with her . it was hard to process . in the end , she could only hope that everything went well . chapter nineteen the following day at work when pesh found a lull in patients , he stepped into the nurses ' station .
while he said hello to some of the other men and women of the nursing staff , he had a singular focus of getting to megan . when he joined her at the counter where she was doing paperwork , she jumped like he had tasered her . `` go away , '' megan hissed . `` you know , i think i can be seen back here in the nurses ' station without arising any suspicion . after all , i could be discussing a patient with you . '' `` then you better start talking in patient codes very soon . '' `` i wanted to know if it would be all right to pick you up at seven on friday evening ? '' when megan jerked her gaze off the chart she was working on , her blue eyes bulged in horror at him . in a low voice , she said , `` i can not believe you are talking about a date here at work . do you care anything about my reputation ? '' he held his hands up defensively . i do n't know what i was thinking besides the fact that i missed you and wanted to talk to you . '' megan 's expression softened . `` i 'm sorry , but we ca n't be that way here . '' pesh opened his mouth to protest when a voice behind them cut him off . `` do n't you two look cozy , '' kara mused . pesh whirled around to find kara staring at them with venom burning in her eyes . `` excuse me , but i need to get another chart off the carousel , '' megan said , with her head tucked to her chest . she turned to go , but kara reached out and grabbed her arm . `` if you do n't mind , exam room three needs a clean-up . '' `` kristi is the only one authorized to give me orders around here , '' megan replied . kara pursed her ruby red lips . `` insubordination and sleeping with a doctor-you really have a career death wish , do n't you ? '' megan started to protest , but pesh stopped her . glaring at kara , he said , `` i want to talk to you . alone . '' after shooting megan a triumphant look , kara let pesh lead her out of the nurses ' station and down the hall . `` what in the hell do you think you 're doing ? '' `` saving you from making a huge mistake . you do n't need a girl like that-you need a woman to take care of you . '' when her hands started to snake up around his neck , pesh grabbed them . `` do n't touch me ! ''
he snarled . a sultry smile spread across her face . `` you liked when i touched you before . '' `` that was one time-a drunken mistake that i regret daily , and i never intend on making again . '' she narrowed her eyes at him . `` so you 're throwing me aside for a young bimbo ? '' `` do not speak that way about megan ever again . do you hear me ? '' `` and do you really feel that she thinks you 're worth throwing her career away for ? '' pesh closed the gap between them . looming over kara , his entire body shuddered in anger . `` listen to me when i say that if you threaten to expose megan one more time , i will make life a living hell for you . as the supervising physician over the er , i can have you shipped off to some hellhole far from here . '' he glared down at her . `` do you understand me ? '' she slowly nodded her head as the realization that there was nothing between them finally dawned on her . `` if you 'll excuse me , i need to go clean my exam room . '' as she hurried past him , pesh exhaled a breath of relief . he never used that tone of voice with women , or men for that matter , unless he was absolutely pushed to do so . but kara 's previous behavior and the way she 'd acted today had forced him to become what he was n't . at the feel of a hand on his back , he whirled around . megan gave him a beaming smile . `` my hero ! '' he laughed at her expression and words . `` you do n't have to worry about her harassing you or me for that matter . i took care of things . '' `` i heard you . '' `` you did ? '' `` it was amazing . '' `` i 'm glad you thought so . '' `` i 've never had a man take up for me like that before . '' `` that 's a shame . '' `` if we were n't in the middle of the er 's hallway , i 'd kiss you to show my gratitude . '' `` i 'll gladly take a rain check . '' `` oh you will ? that 's good to know . '' lowering his voice , he said , `` i 'll expect that kiss later tonight when we 're alone . and i do n't just want it on the lips . '' his brows rose .
`` i want it on several places on my body . '' `` i think that can be arranged . '' `` i 'll be looking forward to it . '' `` dr . a nurse called from the top of the hall . `` you 're needed in rxam room four . '' `` as soon as i finish this patient consultation , i 'll be there , '' he replied . at his blatant lie , megan covered her mouth to hide her giggling . `` i have to go . but can i come over tonight ? '' `` yep . let me get mason fed and bathed , and then i 'm yours . '' `` see you later . '' he winked at her before he turned and started down the hall . a few nights later pesh found himself speeding along the quiet streets of megan 's neighborhood . his phone dinged once again . slowing down , he took a peek to make sure it was n't the hospital . he was n't too surprised to find it was another text from megan . he could tell from the way she had been frantically texting him that afternoon and evening that she was nervous , which was totally surprising to him . she was so strong and fearless that it was hard for him to imagine her ever feeling nervous . but he supposed that in megan 's mind she had good cause to be nervous as tonight he was introducing her to his family . after he picked her up , they were going to his sister , shveta 's , house for dinner . his parents , along with at least one of his brothers , would be there . although he had spent a lot of time with her family , it had n't quite meant the same thing as her spending time with his . he did n't know if her nerves stemmed from simply meeting his family or if they were from the fear of how far their relationship had progressed in the last few months . he turned into the driveway at ten after seven . he did n't even get up the front porch steps before the door flew open , and megan rushed out . her diminutive figure wobbled a little on the black high heels she was sporting . she wore black pants , and a dressy red top that had a lot of beading . it reminded him of the kurta , a style that women from his culture wore . he wondered if she had chosen it for that reason . `` you look beautiful , '' pesh murmured , leaning in to kiss her tenderly . when she did n't warm to his touch , he gazed down at her .
rolling her eyes , she snapped . `` duh , i 'm really nervous . '' `` you 're really that worried about my family 's opinion of you ? '' she threw up her hands . `` of course , i am . your family is very important to you . i do n't want ... '' she tore her gaze from his . `` you do n't want what ? '' he pressed . `` i do n't want to bring shame to you . '' he bit down on his lip to keep from laughing at her . he could n't believe megan was so concerned with his family 's opinion . his heartbeat accelerated at the thought . it had to mean she really was falling in love with him . he brushed a silky strand of blonde hair out of her face . `` sweetheart , you 're not the first american girl i 've brought home with me . '' `` yes , i 'm well aware of that . i 'm also aware of the fact of how well your family loved and accepted jade . it might not be the same way with me . '' `` i 'm not like her , pesh . i 'm not meek and good-hearted . '' `` that 's not true . you are good-hearted . i see that part of you each and every day . '' cupping her chin with his fingers , he brought her gaze to his . `` you saw my brother , dev . through all of his missteps and antics , my parents still love him very much . so i promise you there is nothing you can do to where they wo n't like you or where you 'll bring shame on me . she gave a reluctant nod . taking her by the hand , he led her off the porch . once he 'd gotten her in the car , he went around and slid into the driver 's seat . when pesh cranked up the car , megan gasped in horror . she motioned to the clock on the dash . `` oh my god , we 're going to be late . can i make a worse first impression ? '' `` maybe i should tell you a few things , etiquette wise , so tonight will go a little easier . '' `` what does that have to do with us being late ? '' `` because it 's considered good form to arrive thirty minutes late . '' `` huh , i did n't know that . '' `` well , how could you ? '' `` i tried doing a little research . i even watched monsoon wedding , '' she said .
`` did you now ? '' `` yeah , it was pretty good . i kinda hated there were n't more dance numbers and songs . '' `` megan , i 'm pretty sure none of my family is going to break out into song like in a bollywood movie tonight , '' he said , with amusement ringing in his voice . `` i did n't expect them to , smart-ass . '' `` so testy tonight . '' after exhaling a long breath , she gave him an apologetic smile . `` i 'm sorry i 'm so bitchy . '' `` you 're not bitchy . '' `` and you 're lying . '' `` regardless of your out-of-control emotions , i know that my family is going to love you just as much as i do . '' the moment the words left his lips he grimaced . there was the big l word . they had n't actually exchanged it yet , and now he 'd managed to screw up and say it before he could find the right time . `` oh god , did you have to say that now ? like i 'm not nervous enough ! '' `` i 'm sorry , '' he murmured . burying her head in her hands , she groaned . `` this is ... you are ... i ... '' `` look , you don't- '' `` i love you , too ! '' she shouted from behind her hands . his hands jerked on the wheel , and he sent the car careening onto the emergency lane . when he recovered and got the car back into the right lane , he dared himself to look over at her . `` i love you , pesh . i really f**king do . '' `` oh megan , '' he whispered . pulling her hands away from her face , she gave him a genuine smile . `` i love you more than any man i 've ever known . '' `` i love you more- '' suddenly he found himself unable to continue . did he love her more than he had jade ? he had spent years with jade and had only months with megan . if he did love megan more , what did that say about his relationship with jade ? she reached over and took one of his hands in hers . `` hey , you do n't have to say what i said . our situations are completely different . '' he clenched and unclenched his jaw . `` no woman wants half a man 's heart , '' he argued . `` but i know it is n't half your heart .
and i would n't want you to stop loving me just because i died , so why would i expect you to do the same with jade ? '' `` it 's not fair to you , '' he croaked . `` life 's not fair , baby . you have to get used to that one . '' she squeezed his hand . `` besides , i know what i feel when i feel your love . there 's no half about it . you love me with all your heart and soul . '' `` i do . i honestly do . '' unfastening her seat belt , she lunged over to kiss him . when she started to deepen the kiss , he had to pull away . `` hey now , you got ta stop that or we 're not going to make it to my parents . '' she giggled and then eased back down into her seat . she managed to behave herself the remaining five minutes . when he pulled into his parents drive , he saw it was already crowded with cars . the sight of so many people set megan off , and she began tapping her fingers nervously on her leg . he asked , as he turned to her . `` as i 'll ever be , '' she muttered . he shook his head as he got out of the car . like always , he opened her car door and helped her out . as they started up the sidewalk , megan was a flurry of movement . she smoothed down her hair and then she adjusted her top . then she fiddled with her purse on her shoulder . `` quit fidgeting , '' pesh whispered , as he rang the doorbell . i 'm nervous . '' he grinned down at her . `` megan , they 're going to love you . `` they 're going to hate me because i 'm not a submissive indian woman . wait until they hear i had a child out of wedlock . they 'll be ready to disown you then . '' the door flew open , cutting off the rest of their conversation . `` brother , it 's so good to see you ! '' his brother-in-law , sanjay , cried . after he hugged pesh , his gaze went to megan . his eyes widened , and he gasped in surprise . `` uh , hello . '' `` hi , '' megan said . sanjay gave pesh a curious look . `` you did n't tell me you were bringing company . '' `` this is megan . '' with a self-assured tone , he added , `` she 's my girlfriend . '' well , what about that ? '' sanjay gave megan a welcoming smile .
`` we 're so glad to have you . '' as sanjay turned to go into the living room , megan smacked pesh 's arm . `` you did n't tell them you were bringing me ? '' `` no , i like the element of surprise when it comes to my love life . '' `` s-seriously ? '' she sputtered . `` it 's better this way . trust me . '' before she could say anything else , pesh started taking off his shoes . wide-eyed , megan watched him . quickly , she stepped out of her heels and put them in the pile next to his . `` more etiquette you forgot to tell me ? '' she hissed . he patted the small of her back . as they came into the living room , pesh felt megan tense at his side . he supposed that it was overwhelming coming into a room packed full of strangers . his sister , shveta , came forward first . `` hello brother . you 're looking well this evening . '' so are you . '' he hugged her tight . as he pulled away , he glanced down at her swollen belly . `` and how is the future prince doing ? '' shveta smiled and brought her hand to her abdomen . `` he 's busy kicking me at the moment . '' when she spied megan behind him , she gasped . `` and who is this ? '' he drew in a breath and gazed around his family . `` before i go through this with each and every one of you , i might as well get it out of the way . i want to introduce you to someone very special , my girlfriend , megan . '' deafening silence reverberated around the room after his statement . his mother and father exchanged a glance before staring back at pesh . megan tucked herself even closer to his side . although public displays of affection between men and women were frowned upon in his culture , he wrapped his arm around her waist . `` well , say something , '' he commanded . `` we 're sorry , son . it 's just you caught us off guard , '' his mother said . his father 's bushy brows rose . `` so you 're really dating , eh ? '' at his declaration , his father clapped his hands and grinned . `` that is most wonderful to hear ! '' he came forward to embrace megan . `` you are very welcome here . '' `` thank you , '' she said . `` i 'm charlie , '' his father introduced .
`` megan , '' she replied , with a small smile . pesh peered past his father where his mother stood chewing her lip . he could tell she was n't entirely happy that another blonde-haired , blue-eyed woman was standing beside her son . while shveta and arjan had both sought out indian partners to marry , he and dev were somewhat the black sheep since they had n't chosen to settle down with women within their culture . finally , his mother 's manners won out over anything else , and she stepped forward to shake megan 's hand . `` i 'm lavani . it 's nice to meet you . '' `` nice meeting you , too , '' megan replied . the room then fell into an awkward silence . pesh glanced around , willing someone to say something . his mother cleared her throat . `` i 'll go and finish up dinner . '' as she started into the kitchen , shveta followed her , along with arjan 's wife . since it was customary for women to be in the kitchen , pesh found it to be only megan left with the men . it did n't go without her notice either . `` should i go and offer to help ? '' she questioned , in a whisper . that would be nice . '' her expression told him that she really did n't want to leave his side , but she did anyway . once she was out of earshot , pesh found everyone 's eyes on him . charlie chuckled . `` you even have to ask , my son ? '' `` so ask your questions and get it over with before megan comes back in here , '' he replied , as he collapsed onto the couch . he faced a barrage of questions about where they met , how long they had been seeing each other , and how serious was it . he mustered as much patience as he could to answer them all . when he was finished , the men sat back in surprised silence . `` i never thought i would see the day , '' his father mused . sanjay shook his head . `` oh , i knew the day would come . i saw that when he was out with emma . '' charlie 's brows furrowed . `` emma ? '' pesh pinched his eyes shut and wished his brother-in-law did n't have such a good memory . `` just a friend . '' with a snort , sanjay replied , `` you certainly did n't look at her like she was a friend , even if she was pregnant . ''
`` you were with a pregnant woman ? '' charlie asked . `` alpesh how could you ? '' his mother demanded from the doorway . `` how could i what ? '' lavani 's expression was horror stricken . `` get a woman ... in the family way . '' pesh rocketed off the couch . he glanced past his mother to where megan stood . `` you 're ... ? '' he could n't even form the words . megan 's face flushed blood red . of course , i 'm not ! '' lavani gave him a confused look . `` not her , '' she replied , pointing at megan . `` this emma that sanjay speaks of . '' bringing his hand to his forehead , he rubbed furiously to try to ward off the ache that was starting to pound in his head . everything was getting shot to hell so fast . `` first of all , emma and i were never intimate . she was pregnant by the man she is now married to . yes , i took her to the opera with sanjay and shveta , but there was nothing really between us . '' he shook his head and could n't help wondering if he would ever have to stop explaining what had happened between him and emma . `` second of all , could everyone just back off for a second ? i mean , you 're not exactly giving megan a very good impression of our family . '' a nervous laugh erupted from megan 's lips . she covered her mouth with her hand , trying to hide her giggling . he winked at her , and she lowered her hand to smile at him . now that we 've cleared all that up , why do n't we eat ? '' lavani suggested . `` that sounds wonderful , '' charlie replied . as they made their way into the dining room , pesh went to megan 's side . `` you surviving okay ? '' he whispered . `` i 'm hanging in there . i may need a drink when we leave . '' `` just no silver tequila for you , '' he mused . without the others catching her , megan smacked his arm . `` ass , '' she hissed under her breath . he chuckled as he held out the chair for megan . `` thank you , '' she said before sitting down . he then eased in beside her . as the dishes began making their way around the table , he felt megan kick him . when he glanced at her in surprise , she whispered , `` where is the silverware ? ''
`` we eat with our hands . '' he leaned over to whisper in her ear . `` but do n't use your left hand because it 's considered rude . '' she jerked back to stare wide-eyed at him . `` i 'm left handed , '' she protested . he fought the urge to smile at her horror . he could tell that she would rather die than do something to embarrass him in front of his family . `` you 'll be fine . they wo n't expect as much out of you since you 're american . '' `` alpesh , whatever is it that you 're whispering about ? '' lavani asked , narrowing her eyes at him . `` i was just telling megan what a wonderful cook you are . she loves indian food , so i 'm sure she 's in for a treat . '' pesh squeezed megan 's knee under the table . she cut her eyes over to him and smiled . once the plates had been passed around and everyone served , they began to eat . `` mmm , the samosa is delicious , '' megan complimented . `` thank you , '' lavani replied , with a beaming smile . as his mother turned her attention to shveta , pesh bowed his head and spoke in a low voice to megan . `` once i tried bribing beau with some samosa . '' `` you did ? `` i was at aidan 's house checking on emma when she was on bed rest . i guess you could say he did n't like me invading his turf . '' `` would he not take it from you ? '' `` oh , he took it , ate it , and seemed to enjoy it . but i did n't make any friends that night . '' `` good old beau . '' pesh raised his brows . `` you 're siding with the dog ? '' `` in that scenario , yes . he was merely protecting emma and noah . '' tilting her head at him , she added , `` besides , i do n't like any scenario where you and emma are anything more than friends . '' `` i was there in a medical capacity , '' he argued . she wagged her finger at him . `` you brought dinner with you . that fact alone shows you were there for more than just practicing medicine . '' when he quickly pushed her finger down , she gave him a look that was a cross between puzzled and infuriated . `` are you trying to silence me ? ''
`` no , i 'm just helping you save face . we do n't point-it 's considered rude . '' `` i 've done something else wrong now ? '' `` next time , you better plan on giving me a crash course in indian culture before you even think about bringing me around your family . '' across the table from them , shveta cleared her throat . when pesh and megan glanced at her , she smiled . `` you 're doing fine , megan . please do n't worry about following all the rules of our culture . we certainly do n't expect you to . '' megan returned shveta 's smile . i would never dream of doing anything to offend you . '' `` of course you would n't , '' charlie replied . pesh did n't dare sneak a peek at his mother . after all , she was the one who upheld the traditions and customs of their heritage while his father had tried to americanize himself as much as possible , right down to changing his name . charlie dabbed the corners of his mouth with his napkin . `` i understand you have a son , megan . '' `` yes , mason is almost two . he 's my entire world . '' `` you should have brought him with you this evening . we would have loved to meet him , '' shveta said . `` maybe next time . of course , after you see how much energy he has , you might change your mind . '' as the table laughed , she glanced over at pesh . `` mason truly adores pesh , and pesh is so good with him . his patience is infinite . '' `` he 's a good boy . `` so it 's serious between you two ? '' lavani asked . `` uh , well- '' megan began before she was interrupted by the doorbell . sanjay rose out of his chair . `` that must be dev . '' `` how surprising that he 's so late ? '' shveta mused with a smile . pesh almost laughed at the horrified expression on megan 's face at the mention of dev . `` you did n't tell me he was going to be here ! '' `` i was n't sure if he was coming or not . but do n't worry . things are fine between us now . '' megan gave him a skeptical look as dev walked into the dining room . `` hey everybody , '' he said , throwing up a hand .
at the sight of megan sitting next to pesh , dev 's eyes widened . `` well , well , if it is n't miss right hook , '' he mused with a smirk . `` it 's miss left hook , actually , '' she corrected . dev grinned . `` good to know . '' `` you 've met megan , dev ? '' lavani asked curiously . `` we had the pleasure of meeting each other one day when i went by the hospital to see alpesh . '' at megan 's sharp intake of breath , dev winked at her . he then eased down across from them and began piling food on his plate . `` so you guys work together and now you 're dating , huh ? '' `` yes , '' pesh replied . after taking a bite of his samosa , dev motioned at them while he chewed . `` alpesh is sort of your boss , right ? '' pesh could feel megan 's anger rising . `` no , actually he is n't . i have a preceptor , or head nurse , who is my boss . and before you can make it sound any seedier , it is n't against the hospital rules to date each other . besides , we met each other long before i started working at wellstar . '' `` is that right ? '' dev replied . `` yeah , it is . '' a slow grin slunk across his face . `` i like you , '' he said to megan . `` you have an interesting way of showing it . '' charlie chuckled at the head of the table . `` my , my , alpesh , have n't you picked a feisty one ? '' pesh glanced at megan , who had flushed the red color of her blouse . she gave charlie a weak smile . with a tsk , charlie replied , `` please do n't . it 's been rather refreshing to see you putting dev into his well-deserved place . i understand you punched him , too . '' when his mother gasped in horror , megan fumbled under the table for pesh 's hand . he squeezed it reassuringly as she ducked her head . `` um , well , i 'm sorry to say that i did . '' `` in megan 's defense , i totally deserved it . i punched alpesh and said some really shitty things . '' `` dev ! '' lavani cried . in true dev fashion , he rolled his eyes at his mother 's outrage . `` we 're fine now . everyone calm down . ''
he met pesh 's gaze . `` i 'm happy for you , brother . you 've made a good choice . '' he cut his eyes over to megan . `` i hope you both will be very happy together . '' pesh was taken aback by the sincerity in both dev 's words and his expression . `` yes , thank you . '' dev leaned back in his chair , clasping his hands behind his head . `` and now to ensure that my news overshadows any excitement brought on by the two of you , i 'd like to announce that i 'm getting married next month- '' lavani once again gasped in horror . but dev was n't finished . `` and i 'm going to be a father . '' pesh 's mouth gaped open as the table erupted in absolute pandemonium . he wondered if his mother was going to pass out . turning to megan , he found her with her napkin over her mouth . from the way her shoulders were moving up and down , he could tell she was laughing . `` guess we 're off the hook , huh ? '' `` yeah , i think we 're good . '' `` i love you . '' `` i love you more . '' chapter twenty now that he and megan were an official couple who had said the `` l '' word , pesh no longer had days off where he had to wonder how to pass the time . he wanted to spend every waking minute with her and with mason , and she always made sure that they had time together . today found him at patrick 's house , wedged on the couch between some of megan 's male family members . just like at his parents , the women were all stationed in the kitchen , putting the finishing touches on sunday lunch . as soon as becky came in the living room and announced it was time to sit down , there was a stampede to the dining room . he followed slowly behind the others , searching for megan who he felt like was his lifeline in the crowd . `` where 's aidan and emma ? they 're never late , '' angie remarked , as she sat a giant platter on the table . liz shrugged . `` they have n't called . we could go ahead and get started , and then they can start when they get here . '' john pulled out a chair . becky rolled her eyes . `` you 're always starving . between you and percy , we 're going to be eaten out of house and home . ''
pesh hung back as the others started taking their seats at the massive mahogany table . regardless of how welcoming the fitzgerald 's had been , he still could n't help feeling like an outsider . megan came in carrying a plate of ham . after she deposited it on the table , her gaze searched the room for him . when she spotted him , she gave him the smile that always warmed his heart before crooking her finger at him . as he started to join her , mason came running in . `` get me , esh , '' he urged , holding his hands up . pesh grinned as he stooped over to pick mason up . `` uh , huh . '' `` are you going to sit with me or pesh ? '' `` esh , '' he replied . `` we 'll be fine . '' she motioned for him to have a seat . just as they sat down , aidan appeared in the doorway of the dining room with noah in his arms . `` sorry we 're late . '' `` where 's emma ? '' megan asked , as she took noah from aidan . with a grimace , aidan said , `` she is n't feeling well . it seems that with this pregnancy she 's having third trimester morning sickness . i told her i would stay home with her , but she insisted i come get a good meal . '' `` poor thing . we 'll fix her a plate for you to take home to her later on , '' megan said . aidan smiled . if she can eat it , i know she 'll be grateful . '' patrick clicked his fork against his water goblet . `` is everyone here that 's supposed to be here ? '' a chorus of , `` yes , '' rang around the room . let 's return thanks . '' pesh obediently bowed his head along with the others . when patrick finished , the dishes were passed around and food was served . it was certainly a lot different than how his family did it , but he still enjoyed being with megan 's family . while mason ate off his plate , megan gave aidan a break by feeding noah , or more appropriately letting him drape her in food while he fed himself . `` you 're a mess , '' megan said , into noah 's carrot-and-corn crusted face . his response was to grin at her . `` i 'm sorry , mister , but that cute little grin is n't going to work for me . ''
`` he 's so stubborn , '' aidan said . `` a stubborn fitzgerald ? i 've never heard of such , '' becky joked across the table . `` i 'm serious . he refuses to let me or em feed him , and then he ends up wearing more than he eats . '' `` sounds like his father , '' angie mused . when aidan gave her an exasperated look , she said , `` you were the exact same way . i do n't think you ate a meal until you were two that mother did n't have to hose you off after you finished . '' aidan grunted . `` do n't tell em that story . she already blames me enough for noah 's stubbornness . '' `` let 's hope that this next baby has emma 's temperament . '' `` like she is n't stubborn , '' aidan countered . `` much less than you are , '' megan replied . pursing his lips , he appeared to be surveying her words . `` you might have a point , '' he said , with a grin . after everyone finished eating , the adults lounged around the table talking and laughing while the kids went into the living room . both mason and noah wanted to go with the bigger kids . `` will you keep an eye on them ? '' megan asked percy . `` sure , '' he replied . `` i owe you , perce , '' aidan said , as percy took the boys by the hand . as he sat with his arm draped over the back of megan 's chair , pesh enjoyed listening to the lively conversation around him . occasionally one of aidan 's sisters would ask him a question or his opinion . he had always been naturally quiet , and when he got in the midst of such a lively bunch , he tended to be even quieter . he realized if he was going to truly fit in , he was going to have to speak up more . their conversation was interrupted by a shriek that came from the living room followed by a loud wail . aidan was out of his chair in a flash while megan was close on his heels . mason came running into the dining room . `` noah got hurted . '' aidan reappeared in the dining room with noah in his arms . `` he 's fine . he just fell down . '' taking noah 's hand , aidan said , `` here daddy will kiss the booboos away , okay ? '' noah sniffled and bobbed his head .
once aidan finish with his hand , noah stuck out his leg . once he bent down to noah 's leg and kissed it , he asked , `` are you daddy 's boy ? '' `` uh-huh . '' angie chuckled . `` that 's not fair to do that when emma is n't here . '' as the others laughed , pesh glanced at mason . he was staring at aidan and noah with a contemplative look on his face . never in a million years could he have imagined what he would do next . mason crawled up into his lap and patted pesh 's chest . `` esh mace 's daddy . mace daddy 's boy . '' conversation in the dining room silenced . without even looking up , pesh felt his skin singing under the burn of everyone staring at him and mason . there was no way he could deny the boy when he wore such an expression of happiness . `` yes , you 're daddy 's boy . '' a strangled cry caused him to snap his gaze from mason over to megan . wide-eyed and open mouthed , she blinked a few times as if she were trying to believe that what she was seeing was real . then without another word , she bolted from her chair and fled the room . pesh sat in a shocked silence for a few seconds trying to decide what to do . bending over , he whispered into mason 's ear , `` will you go back and play with the others ? i need to check on mommy . '' when mason nodded , pesh gently sat him back down on the floor . after he raced out of the dining room , pesh finally glanced at the others . `` excuse me , '' he said , before rising out of his chair . he made his way down the hallway . he did n't have to look hard for megan-she was in the one bedroom with the door closed . he rapped lightly on the wood . when she did n't answer , he went ahead and opened the door . he found her sitting on the edge of the bed with her head in her hands . he went over and sat down next to her . tentatively , he put his hand on her back . `` i 'm sorry for not setting mason straight and telling him i was n't his daddy . he looked so happy , and i did n't want to hurt him . '' with her elbows braced on her knees , megan turned her head to look at him . tears streamed down her cheeks .
`` you think i 'm angry at you ? '' he nodded his head . she hiccupped a cry . `` oh pesh , you 're so naive sometimes ! '' he jerked back at her words . `` just when i think i ca n't love you more , you go and do something like that . '' before he could process her words , she threw herself at him , kissing his cheeks and mouth . she straddled his lap and brought her hands around his neck . `` you really love mason , do n't you ? '' `` of course i do . '' `` you could see yourself really being a father to him ? '' `` yes , i could . but what- '' she silenced him with a kiss . it was one that was laced with desperate emotions . he wrapped his hands around her waist and drew her closer to him . just as he was about to deepen the kiss , she pulled away . `` you love me too , do n't you ? '' `` you should have no doubts on that one . '' `` you love me enough to be a husband to me ? '' her question caused him to suck in a harsh breath . he felt like he had been kicked in the gut . `` yes , i could-i always have . '' she tilted her head at him and smiled . `` then marry me . '' bringing her lips to his , she murmured against his mouth , `` marry me . make me your wife . '' at that moment , he thanked god he was sitting down because if he had n't been , he was pretty sure he would 've done something totally emasculating like fainting . he also questioned both his hearing and his sanity . had megan just proposed to him ? surely , he was hallucinating . `` did you just ask me to marry you ? '' he questioned lamely . giggling , megan nodded her head . `` i wish you could see your face right now . i should be insulted . '' it 's just you surprised me . '' she cupped his face in her hands . `` i 'm sorry i do n't have a ring , and i did n't get down on one knee , '' she lovingly teased . he brought his hands up to touch hers . `` you 're really serious ? '' bowing his head , he tenderly kissed the tops of her hands . `` i love you so much , megan , and i want nothing more than to make you my wife . '' `` so is that a yes ? ''
`` i just want to make sure you know what you 're saying . one minute you 're in the dining room , laughing with your family , and then the next you 're in here weeping and then proposing to me . and let 's not forget how adamant you have been the entire time i 've known you about being too young to get married . '' megan 's lips turned down in a pout . `` ca n't a girl change her mind ? '' `` yes , of course , but i just want to make sure this is really what you want . '' tears sparkled in her blue eyes . `` you are everything i could ever want in a man . you love me , you watch out for me , you want the best for me . while that would be enough to make me want to marry you , you love my son . you watch out for him and you want the best for him . i could n't ever imagine loving someone more than i do you . i ca n't imagine wanting to be anyone else 's wife but you . '' `` i was so stupid for so long . i could n't believe that someone like me could truly deserve someone like you . but you never gave up on me . if you give me the chance , i 'll spend the rest of my life trying to make you happy . '' pesh could n't stop the racing of his heart . he was sure both his heart rate and blood pressure were off the charts at this moment . he cupped her cheeks . `` nothing in the world would make me happier than for us to get married . '' `` so we 're engaged ? '' `` yes , we are . '' when a smile lit up megan 's face , he shook his head . `` but not formally yet . not until i put a diamond on your hand . '' `` but i do n't need that to know i 'm promised to you and that we 're getting married . '' `` maybe you do n't , but i do . '' i 'll let you buy me a diamond . a great big one , okay ? '' `` i promise to spend a fortune . '' `` you know i would be happy to wear your ring even if it was a little chip . '' `` i know you would . but i want to spoil my beautiful future wife . '' `` okay , i wo n't argue with you . '' pesh brought his mouth to hers . as their lips moved against each other , he could n't believe how lucky he was .
megan was his-she was really going to be his for the rest of his life . when she flicked her tongue against his , he groaned into her mouth . considering they were at patrick 's with all of her family down the hall , he knew the last thing on his mind should 've been flipping her over onto her back and pounding into her . but he did n't care . he wanted inside her body . he had finally made it into her heart , mind , and soul , and he once again wanted to be inside her perfection . when megan pushed him onto his back , pesh raised his brows at her . `` mmm , i think my future wife is getting ahead of herself . usually the consummating comes after the wedding , not the engagement , '' he teased . `` i think we 've consummated enough over the last few months where it does n't matter . '' `` i suppose you 're right . '' as she ground her core against his growing erection , she said , `` looks like i 'm not the only one with consummating on the mind . '' `` you should know that has a mind of its own . '' she grinned down at him . `` well , right now i think we 're both of the same mind . '' as she continued to grind against him , his hands swept to her brsts . he cupped and kneaded the flesh over her top . at the sound of the door opening , pesh tried to pull away , but he did n't make it in time . `` oh fking hell ! '' aidan 's voice boomed from the doorway . megan quickly scrambled off pesh , and they both rose up , trying to straighten their clothes and hair . with a pained expression , aidan said , `` seriously ? this is my old bedroom ! '' `` i 'm sorry , but you of all people should understand that when the mood hits , you act on it . '' megan smacked his arm playfully . `` that is not exactly what happened . '' holding up one of his hands , aidan said , `` frankly , i do n't really want to know what happened . i just came back here to make sure megan was all right . next time , i 'll make sure someone else comes , so i do n't need eye bleach to wipe that out of my memory. `` `` ha , ha , very funny , '' megan grumbled , as she got off the bed . `` we were only celebrating , '' pesh said .
aidan pinched his eyes shut . `` i do n't think i even want to know what you were celebrating . '' `` our engagement , pervert , '' megan replied . aidan 's blue eyes widened . `` holy shit , you two are engaged ? '' pesh smiled as he rose off the bed and took megan 's hand . `` yes , we are . well , i mean , i need to go to her father and properly ask for her hand . and there 's the fact she does n't have a ring . '' shaking his head in disbelief , aidan said , `` that 's ... wow . i 'm so happy for you two . '' and i do mean that . if it were n't for you and emma , i never would have met megan , '' pesh said . aidan grinned as he clapped pesh on the back . `` you 're more than welcome , man . i 'm just so glad you two finally realized how good you were for each other . '' he turned back to the door before motioning them . `` come on , let 's go tell the others . i think this calls for a celebration , but just not the kind that you two were partaking in . '' `` we were n't going to tell anybody yet . '' `` she does n't even have a ring . '' aidan snorted . `` do you really think anyone out there is going to give two shits about whether or not you have a ring ? '' `` we just want to do it the right way , '' pesh replied . holding up his hands in surrender , aidan said , `` all right , i 'm not going to argue with you anymore . but i will say that there is no right way . hell , look at me and em . in the end , you have to go with the flow and appreciate the moments that are bigger than you could ever imagine . '' he then turned and strode out of the bedroom . pesh stole a glance at megan who appeared to be processing aidan 's words . `` come on , we better get back out there before they send someone else , '' she finally said . with a smile , he took her hand and led her down the hall . when they got back to the dining room , everyone glanced expectantly at them . even though he knew he should n't , pesh blurted , `` we 're engaged ! ''
he did n't have time to worry about megan 's anger about him blabbing because he realized she had said it at the same time he had . cheers went up over the room , and he was hugged and kissed by megan 's aunts . when megan 's father , paul , stood before him , pesh felt like he 'd been kicked in the groin . `` mr. mckenzie , i apologize . i intended to come to you and ask for megan 's hand-to show respect to you and your wife . i 'm so sorry . '' paul shook his head and smiled . `` please do n't apologize . i 'm just grateful that she 's met such a wonderful man who will be a good husband to her and a good father to mason . '' `` i swear to you that i will . '' he and paul shook hands to seal the vow . in the absence of champagne , wine was poured to celebrate . at the head of the table , patrick held up his glass . `` to my granddaughter and the good doctor , i give you an irish marriage blessing . 'may god be with you and bless you . may you see your children 's children . may you be poor in misfortunes and rich in blessings . may you know nothing but happiness from this day forward . ' '' `` to megan and pesh . '' the others raised their glasses . once pesh tasted the rich bouquet of the wine , he leaned over and kissed megan . he did n't even mind the cat-calls and whistling-he was too happy to care . chapter twenty-one standing in front of the lighted hotel mirror , megan surmised her appearance . it was the first time she had n't been encircled by pesh 's mother , sister , and aunts since she had stepped inside the suite an hour ago . when she had agreed to an indian engagement party , she had n't quite known what she was getting into . she thought it would just be a great way to get their friends and family together . she did n't know that pesh 's family did n't do anything on a modest scale . without her input , the plaza ballroom of the ritz carlton in atlanta had been booked . when she had dared a peek inside earlier , it had been transformed into something out of a bollywood movie . she had wanted to honor pesh 's culture by dressing just as a true indian prospective bride would , so she had gone sari shopping with lavani and shveta .
what she had n't bet on was how gorgeously intricate the outfit would be . now as she gazed at herself in the mirror , she was almost blinded by the glittering stones and beading on the deep purple and gold sari . the outfit put even the blingiest miss america pageant dress to shame . the top part was sleeveless , and it ended just below her br**sts . while the front part appeared to be plain satin , the back was encrusted in beading and gems . the skirt , with its beaded waistband , started just beneath her belly button and fell to the floor in the most exquisite silky material . it was hard imagining she was going to be baring her mid-drift , as was the fashion of the sari . thankfully , she had a jewel encrusted drape that slung across one of her shoulders and down one side . earlier after one of pesh 's aunts had done her makeup , lavani and shveta did her hair . the long strands were swept back and pinned on the side in loose curls . a gorgeous purple orchid adorned the curls . all that was missing from her ensemble was the jewelry that pesh 's family had requested that she wear . apparently , it was all heirloom pieces and kept in a safe at a bank . although the necklace and earrings were to come , her arms were heavy laden with bangle bracelets that lavani and shveta had put on her . they both had tears in their eyes when they finished . `` you look absolutely breathtaking , my dear , '' lavani said . and thank you so much for making tonight happen . '' lavani cupped her cheek . `` i look forward to seeing many happy years between you and my alpesh . i 'm grateful that you make him so happy . it had been so long since i had seen a light in his eyes . but when you came into his life , you brought back that light . '' at lavani 's words , megan felt tears stinging her eyes . when she felt like she could speak without crying , she brought her hands together as if she were praying and then bowed her head as was the sign of respect in pesh 's culture . `` i want you to know that before pesh , i was in darkness , too . he has become my light as well . i can assure you that i will spend the rest of my life honoring him and making him happy . i am very thankful for the amazing man you have raised . ''
lavani 's dark eyes filled with tears , and she brought a handkerchief up to dab her eyes . `` thank you , my dear . '' shveta stepped into the bathroom , her face lit up in a broad smile . `` alpesh is here . '' gathering up the bottom of her skirt , megan walked out of the bathroom and into the bedroom . her heart stopped at the sight of him . she had never seen him in kurta-pajama , as they were called . basically , it was a long , tunic like shirt that came to his knees . underneath he wore loose cotton-like pants . but his top was made much like hers . it was gold in color and encrusted in gems and beading . she did n't want to begin to imagine how much it cost . when she brought her gaze back to his , she shivered under his heated stare . `` you are a vision of absolute and total perfection , '' he said . doing a little turn , the fabric of her sari twirled around her . `` so you like it ? '' `` i feel a little like a poser . like 'you can put the irish girl in a sari , but you ca n't take the irish out of the girl ' kinda thing . '' `` i would n't have you any other way , '' he said , with a serious , yet tender tone . megan eyed the two velvet boxes in his hand . `` ooh , let me see the goodies . '' with a bark of a laugh , pesh sat one of the boxes down on the table before he opened the other . megan gasped as two enormous earrings glittered back at her . while there was a thick base , the rest flowed down in flourishing designs that would probably touch her shoulders when she put them on . they had a gold overlaying , but all the gems were diamonds and amethysts that would match her sari . `` this is why your mother and shveta wanted me to pick a purple sari ? '' `` they 're breathtaking , '' she murmured . `` wait until you see the necklace , '' he replied , with a smile . her shaky hands reached forward to take one of the earrings . she quickly worked the clasp and fastened it to her lobe . then she did the other . while they were so heavy she felt like they might weigh her down , she glanced up at pesh and smiled . `` you 're welcome , my love . '' he reached for the other box .
megan 's eyes widened as the diamonds and deep amethysts sparkled in the light . he took the necklace out and unfastened the clasp . he moved behind her and then lifted the necklace over her head . she closed her eyes at the pleasurable sensation of feeling his closeness . `` there . now you 're ready . '' whirling around to face him , she brought her lips to his . his thumb tenderly rubbed her cheek . `` i love you , too . '' from the doorway of the bedroom , lavani tsked disapprovingly at them . `` alpesh , stop mauling her , or you 're going to mess up her makeup ! '' `` i hardly think i was mauling her . '' she waved her hand dismissively . `` come now . it 's time we went downstairs . '' after pesh held out his arm for her , megan slid hers through his . `` do n't be nervous , '' he murmured into her ear . `` i 'm not , '' she lied . `` megan , i know you well enough by now that i know when you 're nervous . you fidget and bite your lip . '' `` sorry , '' she muttered , as they got onto the elevator . considering it was packed with pesh 's family , megan kept her mouth shut about her nerves . the last thing she wanted to do was to come off wrong in front of them . when the doors opened , she drew in a couple of deep breaths to still her nerves . there was a whole lot of pomp and circumstance that she did n't quite understand about how they were all supposed to enter . she just tried not to mess up the part when she came in with her parents . just like at a wedding reception , she and pesh sat at a table at the head of the room . of course , she had n't quite prepared herself for the golden chairs that looked almost like thrones . once everyone was assembled , pesh 's father got up to speak . `` we are very grateful that you all could be with us this evening . i know that with megan 's friends and family , as well as some of our son 's , there are a lot of you unacquainted with our culture . i will try to explain to you what the proceedings are . '' on the table in front of them were two flower wreaths that reminded her of the leis that you would see in hawaii . they were in colors of white , gold , and purple .
the wreaths crisscrossed over the black ring boxes . she knew from what pesh had told her that they would be giving each other rings tonight to symbolize their future union . it all seemed pretty extreme to her for just an engagement party-it was almost like a wedding . `` it 's show-time , '' pesh murmured in her ear before he stood up . she quickly followed his lead . he took one of the flower wreaths off the table and brought it over her head . he made sure to adjust her hair so it flowed over the flowers . when he was done , she did the same , although it was a little harder for her to reach up over his head . then he took one of the platinum bands and put it on her trembling finger . `` i love you so very much , megan . there 's not another woman in the world i could love like i do you , '' he whispered to reassure her . `` i love you so much , too . '' she then slid the band on his hand . once it was done , applause went out over the ballroom , and pesh pulled her to him for a kiss . `` now what do we do ? '' he smiled at her . `` we dance . '' after exhaling the breath she had been holding , megan took pesh 's hand and let him lead her to the dance floor . a song she had never heard before in her life began to play from the dj . `` so what were you thinking when it came to the wedding ? '' `` something small . '' i was thinking you would want to go all out . '' `` i just want something simple with our closest friends and family . i do n't have to have something showy to make me happy . '' `` you know that anything 'simple ' is not going to set well with my parents . '' `` well , they 're just going to have to accept it . '' `` we could just run off and get married in a cave in hawaii , '' he suggested . `` that idea has potential , but i think as my parents ' only daughter , they would kill me if they did n't get to plan something . '' his expression grew serious . `` i do n't want us to have to wait much longer . '' `` i agree . i want to get married in the next couple of months . '' i 'm glad to hear that . '' as megan glanced over to see her grandfather dancing with his lady friend , an idea popped into her head .
`` what if we got married in papa 's rose garden ? '' `` it sounds like a beautiful place , but is there enough room ? '' `` only our closest friends and family , remember ? '' she insisted . `` it could work . '' `` so you like the idea ? '' `` i do . '' with a wink , he said , `` it makes sense considering you proposed to me at patrick 's house . '' it does . '' `` think we can put it all together in two months ? '' `` i do n't see why not . '' he brought his warm lips to hers , and megan shivered in spite of the heat on the dance floor . `` i ca n't wait to make you my wife , '' he murmured against her lips . `` i 'm ready to make an honest man out of you , too . '' pesh threw his head back and chuckled . `` only you would say something like that . '' `` hey , the truth is the truth . '' the song ended , and pesh escorted her back to their table . after they finished with the blessings from pesh 's family , dinner was served . megan could n't believe all the food that was paraded by her . she lost count on how many plates of delicious indian food she sampled . by the time the desserts came out , she was thoroughly stuffed and could n't eat any . `` let 's go mingle , '' she suggested when pesh also turned down any dessert . `` sounds good to me , '' he said , before getting out of his chair . they made their way through the maze of tables , talking to family and friends . megan was introduced to so many of pesh 's relatives that she was sure she would never be able to remember them all . when they finally got to the fitzgerald tables filled with her parents and aunts and uncles , she was thrilled when pesh took a seat across from aidan and emma . after they had been talking for a while , emma turned aidan . `` do you think noah 's okay ? '' `` i 'm sure he 's fine , babe . the sitter looked very qualified . '' although emma nodded her head , megan could tell that she was n't convinced . both mason and noah were upstairs in the hotel with babysitters outside of their family for the first time in their young lives .
megan shared a bit of emma 's apprehension , but when she had dropped mason off in the suite , he seemed to get along with the woman they had hired . `` i might just go peek in on him . you know , make sure she got him to sleep , '' emma said , rising out of her chair . aidan shook his head and stood up . `` you need to be off your feet . you said yourself you were n't feeling too well before we left . '' emma shot him a murderous look . `` thanks for saying that in front of pesh and megan . '' aidan gave them a sheepish grin . `` sorry guys . i hope it does n't ruin your fabulous party knowing that emma , at nine months pregnant and some change , was n't feeling wonderful . '' megan laughed while pesh shook his head . `` emma , if you want to go on upstairs and lie down , we wo n't be hurt . i remember how awful it feels being overdue , '' megan said . `` no , i 'm fine . i want to stay , '' emma replied . when aidan motioned for her to have a seat , she shook her head . `` i need to go to the restroom . '' `` you want me to go check on noah ? '' `` i 'm sure he 's fine or the sitter would have texted me . i 'm just being overprotective . '' aidan gave her a quick kiss . `` love you , sweetheart . '' she smiled at him . after she headed through the crowd to the bathroom , aidan began telling pesh some wild story from work that had pesh doubled over with laughter . when emma returned , she did n't sit back down . instead , she swayed back and forth on her feet next to her chair . `` aidan , '' she said in a strained voice . megan could n't help noticing how emma had paled considerably since her trip to the bathroom just a few minutes before . he held up his finger . `` one second , babe . i got ta finish telling pesh this story . '' `` but my water broke . '' without taking his eyes off pesh , aidan slid his glass of water over to her . `` here take mine . '' if the situation had n't been dire , megan would have laughed at how oblivious aidan was . pesh leaned forward in his seat . `` um , aidan , i think- '' he did n't get a chance to finish . instead , water splashed against the side of aidan 's face .
he shot out of his chair before whirling around to emma . `` what the hell , em ? '' `` my . water . broke , '' she muttered through gritted teeth . `` oh shit , '' he replied . after tossing his napkin back on the table , he held up a hand . `` okay , it 's fine . no need to panic . we 're not that far from the hospital- '' `` like twenty minutes , '' emma argued . aidan 's hands came to her shoulders . `` it 'll be fine , babe . emma huffed out a few frustrated breaths as she weighed his words . then her grim expression softened . aidan grinned as he turned back to pesh and megan . `` i hate to cut and run , but it looks like baby caroline is a big attention whore who wants all the glory tonight . '' megan rose out of her chair . `` do n't you worry about it one bit . since she 's a week overdue , i 'm going to let her have this one without accusing her of trying to steal the limelight . '' `` can we do anything ? '' while aidan shook his head , emma said , `` just make sure noah is okay . '' angie rose out of her chair . `` i 'll go check on him right now . '' `` thanks . '' aidan dug around in his pocket . when he produced a set of keys , he tossed them at pesh . `` since i came after work , em and i are in separate cars . whoever has noah overnight will need our suv to get him to the hospital tomorrow . '' pesh nodded as megan said , `` good thinking . i 'm not sure if mom is taking him or becky . '' at emma 's somewhat apprehensive look that there was n't a strict plan in place for noah , megan said , `` it 'll be fine . `` okay , '' she said , a little reluctantly . sliding his arm around emma 's waist , aidan said , `` come on , sweetheart . we need to go . '' at the feel of pesh 's hand on her back , megan glanced up at him . `` exciting night for them , eh ? '' `` how about letting me take you for another spin on the dance floor ? '' `` i 'd love that . '' as an indian love song flowed out from the speakers , megan wrapped her arms around pesh 's neck .
this time he did n't bother dancing more formally like he had in savannah . instead , he wrapped his arms around her waist and drew her flush against him . closing her eyes , she rested her head on his broad chest , loving the gentle beat of his heart beneath his shirt . when the song finished , they did n't move . they just waited for the next one . thankfully , it was another slow one . halfway through , she felt a tug on the bottom of her drape . glancing down , she saw georgie peering up at her . `` what are you doing , sweetie ? '' he glanced left and right before he spoke . `` mommy told me not to tell anybody , but she needs you to come up to her hotel room . '' what for ? '' `` noah 's going crazy wanting aunt emma , and she thinks you 're the only one that might be able to get him to calm down . '' `` ah , i see . '' when she turned back to pesh , he smiled . `` you do n't even need to apologize . go see if you can help . '' she leaned up and gave him a smacking kiss on the lips . `` thank you for being so amazing each and every moment of the day . '' his thumb brushed against her cheek . `` be back as soon as i can . '' `` i 'm going to hold you to that . '' taking georgie 's hand , she made her way off the dance floor and out of the ballroom . after getting on one of the elevators , they rode to the sixth floor . she let georgie lead the way . he stopped halfway down the hall and knocked on the door . by then , she did n't have to guess which room noah was in . she could hear his screams all the way outside . when becky flung open the door , she waved megan through with her hand . `` the others did n't want me to interrupt you , but we 've been trying the last hour to get him to calm down , and he 's just not having it . '' megan found the scene in hotel room somewhat comical . her mother , along with her aunts julia and liz , stood in a circle around one of the beds . outfitted in a fuzzy , blue footed sleeper , noah sat in the middle of the mattress , his cheeks streaked and soaked with tears and his face red from crying . `` what is the matter ? '' everyone whirled around to look at her . everything 's fine .
go back to your party , '' angie said , over noah 's wails . `` um , i think it 's safe to say that it is n't fine . or at least , he 's not fine . '' liz fanned her face with her hand . `` it 's like the moment emma left the hotel , he freaked out . he woke up out of a dead sleep screaming for his mama . the poor baby-sitter hung in as long as she could before she finally called us . '' megan cocked her head at noah . `` poor thing . '' she bypassed her aunts to hold out her arms . considering he 'd spent so much time with her , noah happily reached for her , and megan pulled him into her embrace . `` hey buddy , you 've got to stop crying . '' he was snubbing so hard his breath came in big hiccups as his chest heaved . `` mama . want mama , '' he pleaded pitifully . megan hugged him tight to her chest . `` i know , sweetie . but she 's at the hospital having your baby sister . '' her answer did n't satisfy him since he drew in a deep breath to start screaming again . `` you wan na go downstairs to the party ? '' he appeared thoughtful . `` pesh is downstairs . you wan na see him ? '' `` esh ? '' `` yes , he 's down there . '' `` see esh , '' he said , kicking his feet as if to tell her to start walking . `` here . i 'll take him , '' her mother suggested , reaching for noah . he shrieked before wrapping his arms tighter around megan 's neck . `` i think it 's safe to say he 's staying with me . '' `` but it 's your engagement party , '' julia protested . `` yes , and i 've been enjoying it the last four hours . i do n't think watching him is going to take away anything for me . '' as she started out the doorway , she asked , `` is mason okay ? '' her mother nodded . `` thank goodness he 's down the hall , or we 'd have two toddlers running around at eleven o'clock . '' megan giggled as she walked down the hall . her necklace and the beaded sari seemed to be holding noah 's interest . `` pretty , huh ? '' she asked , as they got on the elevator .
`` ooh , pwetty , '' he mimicked . when she got back downstairs , pesh was seated at their table , talking to some of their colleagues . the moment noah saw him , he reached out for pesh . `` well hello , little one . were you really crying because you wanted to come to our party ? '' noah grinned at pesh behind his pacifier , which caused pesh to smile . `` he looks so much like aidan when he does that , does n't he ? '' `` yes , he does . i 'm sure he 's going to use that cute little grin to his advantage when he gets older , just like his daddy did . '' she eased into the chair beside them . after spitting out his pacifier , noah asked , `` daddy ? '' `` uh , oh , i should n't have said that , '' megan muttered under her breath . `` my daddy ? '' `` he 's at the hospital with mommy . we 'll take you there in the morning , '' she replied . that statement caused noah 's lip to tremble . before he could start crying , pesh rose out of his chair . `` let 's go look at all the pretty party decorations . '' megan smiled as she watched pesh take noah around the room . her heart warmed at his thoughtfulness . she could n't believe there was ever a time when she fought her feelings for him . there was n't a better man in the whole world , and the fact that he loved her was a true miracle . by the time pesh returned , noah had fallen asleep . he carefully sat back down beside her . `` here , '' she suggested , taking off her glittering drape . she wrapped the fabric over noah like a blanket . `` did i mention how much i loved you in a sari ? '' pesh questioned , with a wicked gleam in his eyes . she glanced down to see the top had her boobs bulging out the front as well as the fact her stomach was now bared . `` i 'll have to wear one more often for you . '' `` i would love that . '' when her phone beeped , she reached across the table and grabbed it . `` oh my god ! '' `` that was aidan . the baby is already here . '' `` considering it 's a second baby , it is n't too surprising . '' `` i need to tell my mom and aunts . '' `` go ahead . we 're fine . ''
megan smiled at noah sleeping soundly against pesh 's chest . she made her way over to her family 's table . caroline was just born . '' a whoop went up around the table . `` is emma okay ? '' becky asked . `` he said mother and baby are doing great . '' julia shook her head and smiled . `` aidan with a daughter-now that 's going to be something to see . '' they all laughed . `` that 's so true , '' megan said . becky glanced at the group . `` why do n't we go see them ? i mean , the hospital is n't too far from here . '' angie nodded . `` sounds good to me . i 'd personally like to see aidan in action with his baby girl . '' with a snort , megan added , `` i would have liked to have been in the delivery room when she was first born . his expression then would have been priceless . '' `` i bet he cried , '' liz said . `` oh yeah , he bawled for sure , '' angie replied , with a grin . as her aunts started gathering up their purses and telling their husbands where they were going , megan said , `` i want to go too . '' before they could argue , she held up her hand . `` it 's late . the party is pretty much over , and there 's two more next week at some of pesh 's relatives ' houses . besides , i want to see the newest fitzgerald baby girl . '' her mother frowned . go tell pesh , and we 'll meet you out front . '' she smiled as she went back to their table . `` my mom and aunts are going to the hospital to see aidan and emma . '' `` you want to go ? '' her heart warmed at the fact that he already knew what she was feeling . can i go too or is this just a hen party thing for the women ? '' `` yes , you can come . '' pesh glanced down at noah . `` he 's going to want to see his mother . '' i do n't think we could go without him . '' as pesh rose out of the chair , noah stirred but did n't wake up . `` get aidan and emma 's keys out of my pocket . '' she nodded and reached into his pants . when she accidentally touched his penis through the fabric , he jumped . `` sorry about that , '' she replied , as she pulled out the keys .
`` no problem , '' he muttered through gritted teeth . they said a quick goodnight to pesh 's parents and other relatives who remained . then they headed out to the lobby . after giving the valet aidan 's keys , they waited for the suv to be brought around . when she caught her reflection in the glass doors of the hotel , she gasped . pesh inquired . `` the jewelry ! i ca n't go loaded down with this expensive stuff to the hospital ! '' she cried . she snatched off the earrings and then started working on the necklace . `` i 'll run go give it to your mother . '' `` if you insist , '' pesh replied . she kicked off her heels so she could run easier . the necklace and earrings weighed down her hands . she grabbed the first member of pesh 's immediate family she saw , which unfortunately happened to be dev . `` can you get these to your mother ? i 've got to get to the hospital . '' his dark eyes widened as he took the jewelry from her . `` i 'm fine . a cousin 's baby was just born . do n't let anything happen to that , okay ? '' dev chuckled . `` yeah , i 'll be unloading this pronto . the last thing i need is for my ass to be the one to lose the family jewels . '' with a wink , he added , `` they 'd be taking my family jewels . '' megan laughed and then gave him a wave before running off . when she got back outside , aidan and emma 's suv had just pulled around . noah began to squirm in pesh 's arms . `` guess where we 're going ? '' pesh said , before he could start crying . `` mama ? '' `` yes , we 're taking you to your mama and daddy and new baby sister . '' noah 's face lit up at the prospect , and he happily let them buckle him into his car seat . following her mother 's car , they made the drive in almost a caravan of relatives . when they got to the hospital , pesh pulled up to let her out . `` i 'll go park and bring him in . '' i 'll see you guys up there . '' when she got up to the maternity floor , there was a quite a group waiting for her , including emma 's best friend , connor . `` did casey not feel like coming tonight ? '' megan asked , as she hugged him .
casey was just a few weeks shy of her own due date with a little girl . `` oh , she 's here all right . she 's just in labor herself . it seems like caroline and olivia are going to be true best friends by being born almost the same day . '' `` that 's wonderful news . '' connor wrinkled his nose . `` i think casey will be appreciating it a little more when her epidural kicks in . she was n't too happy the last time i went back to see her . '' `` oh yes , i remember that feeling well . '' megan 's phone dinged , and she quickly read the text . `` aidan says we can come back now , '' she said to her aunts . the group made their way through the double doors and down the hall . when they reached emma 's room , angie knocked on the door . within a few seconds , aidan appeared . `` hey guys , '' he said , with a beaming smile . `` the nurse is actually checking on em , but give me a second . '' he disappeared back behind the door only to reappear within a few moments . this time he held a tiny bundle wrapped in a pink blanket . `` here she is . miss caroline elizabeth fitzgerald . '' collective oohs and aahs went up over the group as aidan held caroline out for them to see . she did n't seem too interested or impressed by them . she yawned and closed her eyes . `` she 's absolutely beautiful , '' megan said . `` she 's something all right , '' aidan murmured . `` there it is ! i see a tear , '' becky teased . aidan rolled his eyes at his sister . you had some kind of bet going about whether i cried or not ? '' liz patted his back . pesh appeared then . the moment noah saw his father he kicked to get down . once he got his feet on the floor , he ran to aidan , wrapping his arms around aidan 's leg . `` hey buddy . you want to meet your sister ? '' squatting down , aidan held caroline to where noah could get a good look at her . `` mama 's tummy baby ? '' aidan laughed . `` yeah , this is your baby sister , caroline . '' noah eyed his sister with a slight frown , as if he was trying to figure her out . megan could only imagine what was going on in his head at the moment .
he 'd spent the last sixteen months being the center of his parents ' world , and now there was someone else to share the attention . when caroline scrunched up her face and whimpered , noah patted her arm . `` no cwy , baby . '' `` aw , he 's going to be a good big brother , '' angie remarked . `` yeah , he 'll be fine until caroline needs emma . then he 's going to be ready to sell her to the gypsies . '' a nurse exited emma 's room . `` you can go in now . '' as she gazed around the crowd , she shook her head . `` well , some of you can go in . '' rising up off the floor , aidan took noah 's hand . `` come on , buddy . mama wants to see you . '' noah did n't bother waiting on aidan . he barreled through the door . `` mama ! mama ! '' megan smiled as she watched him climb up on emma 's bed . `` there 's my baby boy ! '' emma cried hoarsely , smothering both his cheeks in kisses . he snuggled up to emma 's side . `` come on , meggie . you and pesh come in first , '' aidan suggested . megan did n't argue with him . instead , she took pesh 's hand and followed aidan inside . emma glanced up and shook her head . `` i 'm so sorry for ruining your engagement party . '' `` you did n't ruin our night , '' pesh reassured her . we kept right on partying-it did n't bother us at all , '' megan teased . megan smiled and jerked her chin over at aidan , who sat in the rocker with caroline . `` congratulations on a beautiful baby girl . '' `` thank you , '' emma replied , as a beaming smile lit up her face . `` are you feeling okay ? '' `` it was a little easier this time and a lot quicker . '' she turned to aidan . `` and this time i did n't have to worry that aidan might not make it . '' `` no , you just kept screaming at me to drive faster because you were not going to deliver caroline on the side of the interstate . '' emma 's cheeks flushed . `` i guess i was a little panicked . '' pesh took megan 's hand and squeezed it . `` we better go and let the others have a turn , '' he said .
`` do you want us to take noah back with us ? '' considering he was plastered to his mother 's side , megan was n't really looking forward to trying to take him . emma gazed down at her son with love burning in her eyes . `` no , i think he can stay here with us a little longer . i might get connor to take him home . i know he 'll be here until casey delivers . '' `` are you sure you wo n't need your rest ? '' `` oh , i 'll pawn him off to aidan and make sure i get plenty of sleep until miss caroline needs me , '' emma replied , with a sly smile . aidan did n't argue with her . he looked perfectly content to lose sleep if it meant being surrounded by his wife and children . after exchanging a few hugs and kisses , she and pesh headed out into the hallway and let the next group in . as they walked down the hall hand in hand , pesh turned to her and smiled . `` you know , i never thought i would see the day i would be envious of aidan again . '' he heaved a sigh . `` seeing him with his children makes me envious . one day i hope that 's you with my child in your arms . '' whether or not they would have children together had never really been discussed . it was almost a given that they would , so it did n't seem necessary to iron out when and how many . she wanted nothing more than to give pesh a baby of his own . he was truly the father mason had never had . `` give me a year , '' she said softly . `` i 'd like one year for us to be together as a married couple before we try to have children . '' `` that only makes me an even older father , '' he protested . you 're awfully spry for your old age . '' `` i just do n't want to be on a walker at his or her high school graduation . '' `` one year is not going to make that much a difference . '' you win . we 'll wait one year . '' as the elevator doors dinged open , they stepped inside . gazing down at her , pesh said , `` i could n't have picked a more amazing mother for my future children . '' `` yeah , i got ta agree that you did good , nadeen . real good , '' she teased . he cupped her face in his hands and gave her a lingering kiss that silenced anymore of her comebacks .
when he pulled away , she smiled at him . `` keep kissing me like that , and i might decide to wait even longer for a baby . you 'll make me want you , your lips , and your dick all to myself for as long as possible . '' `` and here i thought my kisses might get you in the mood for baby-making , '' pesh mused . `` either way , it 's a win-win situation . so bring it on , nadeen . bring . it . on . '' chapter twenty-two although her stomach screamed in protest to drop her fork , megan could n't resist popping in the last bite of delicious crepe into her mouth . as she chewed , she closed her eyes at the delicious combination of chocolate and strawberries danced along her taste buds . `` good ? '' a voice asked from across the table . her eyelids popped open to take in pesh , her new husband of three days . he wore an amused smile as he held his cappuccino cup in midair . `` orgasmically good , '' she replied . `` i 'm glad you 're enjoying them . '' `` i 'm going to gain ten pounds while we 're here , '' she replied . as she dabbed her mouth with her napkin , she sighed with absolute contentment . gazing around the tiny parisian cafe , she fought the urge to pinch herself . was she actually in paris on her honeymoon ? when pesh had asked her where she wanted to go , there was only one place . although it was somewhat cliched for a honeymoon destination , she had always wanted to see the city . and because she was marrying a man who loved to spoil her , pesh had booked them for a week 's stay at the hotel plaza athenee . not only had he chosen the hotel for its gorgeous views of the eiffel tower , but it was also where carrie bradshaw stayed when she was in paris . it seems pesh completely understood megan 's love for sex and the city . their first day in the city had been spent in their hotel room . a combination of jetlag and lust had kept them na**d and in bed , stopping only for room service and showers . today they had pried themselves away from the room to go sightseeing . `` are you ready to go back to the hotel ? '' with a teasing grin , she asked , `` are you tired and want to rest ? '' desire pooled in pesh 's dark eyes .
`` no , i do n't want to rest . i want you to model what you bought this afternoon . '' her gaze left his to go down to the pink and black bag at her feet . part of their sightseeing had turned into shopping , in which she bought some very racy lingerie . although she was enjoying her day out in the city , she was also itching to put on the outfit and get back in bed with pesh . `` then let 's go , '' she said . pesh certainly did n't need any more convincing . digging in his pocket , he took out his wallet and threw a wad of euros on the table . then he popped out of seat like a jack-in-the-box . she had to snatch up her purse and bag to keep up with him before he sprinted out the door and into the sunshine . as she passed the colorful flowers in bloom outside the cafe , they transported her back to her wedding . it had been a perfect , cloudless day when she stood with pesh in the rose garden at her papa 's house . to her , he had never looked more handsome than in his black tux that fit his built frame like a second skin . since she was the master of party planning , megan had enlisted emma 's help in getting the quickie wedding done . even with newborn caroline to tend to , emma had gone above and beyond any expectations megan had . tears had stung her eyes when she first caught sight of the garden as she , on her father 's arm , made her way from the house to the ceremony . white chairs draped with blue silk bunting lined the garden in rows while a tent had been erected to the side of the makeshift altar . next to the chairs , votive candles lit the way up the aisle that was adorned in multicolored rose petals . emma , casey , and two of her best friends from childhood stood at the altar in their cornflower blue bridesmaid dresses . pesh , along with his brothers and aidan , wore blue vests with their tuxes . a string quartet struck up the bridal march to herald her arrival . she would never , ever forget the feeling of walking up the aisle to pesh . his loving gaze took her in , and she felt like the princess she had always wanted to be on her wedding day .
her dress was almost like what a disney princess might wear-a long train , a full ball gown , a bodice encrusted with pearls and sequins , and then a glittering tiara holding her veil in place . the entire world seemed to evaporate when pesh took her hand in his . he was her only focus . she barely heard the words the priest spoke or the lyrics of the song that emma sang . she just stared at her soon-to-be husband-the man who made her believe in romance and true love . she was so lost in thoughts of her wedding day that she accidentally mowed into a woman . `` excuse me , '' she apologized . the woman scowled at her while cursing at megan in french . well , megan imagined it was cursing since she did n't speak french . `` where is that head of yours ? '' pesh asked , with a smile . `` thinking of our wedding day , '' she replied . his smile grew broader at her response , and in the middle of a crowded street , he stopped to kiss her . while it was somewhat chaste and full of more love than lust , it did hold a promise of what was to come later on . he ended it far sooner than she would like . `` let 's hurry , '' he replied . she giggled before breaking into a slight run towards the hotel . he followed her example . by the time they pushed through the revolving doors into the lobby , they were both breathless . like two mischievous kids , they raced to the elevators . once inside , they wrapped their arms around each other and kissed passionately until the door dinged open . they pulled apart long enough to get down the hall and into their suite . when the door closed behind them , pesh pulled her to him , bestowing a lingering kiss on her lips . as he ravaged her mouth , his tongue darted inside to tease along hers . when she felt his evident desire poking into her stomach , she broke the kiss . at his groan , she shook her head . `` not yet . i have to get dressed . '' `` next time , '' he muttered . pushing out of his arms , she grinned up at him . `` i 'll be back in just a second . you get ready . '' `` oh , i 'll be ready . that 's a promise . '' she laughed and then practically skipped into the bathroom . once she closed and locked the door , she sat the bag down and dug inside . after she decided what to wear , she laid them out on the counter , and then started taking off her clothes . when she was naked , she reached for the lingerie .
the tight bodice was solid black with pink ribbons that wove through making intricate designs . it pushed her brsts up and over the cups , making her appear to have far more cleage than she was blessed with . the black and pink panties were lace and practically see through . on her legs , she slid black silk stockings that had pink bows at the tops of her thighs . as she fluffed out her hair , she could n't help gazing in the mirror . she looked quite the sexpot , which she hoped pleased pesh . well , she knew it would please pesh . the man was ravenous for her , something for which she was very thankful . not quite the polite gentleman she had expected when she first met him , that was for sure . megan opened the bathroom door . across the room , pesh stood gazing out the window , stripped down to his boxer shorts . when she cleared her throat , he jerked his head to stare at her . slowly , she walked out of the bathroom . her eyes stayed on him . a shiver rippled through her as he tracked her every move . when she finally stood before him , it took less than a second for him to pounce on her . his hands grabbed her by the waist , jerking her flush against him . his mouth bore down on hers in a frantic kiss as he ground his ck between her legs . breathless , she pulled away to gaze up at him . `` does this mean you like the lingerie ? '' `` oh hell yes , i do . i think we 're going to have to go back and get you some more . '' `` more shopping ? you wo n't hear me say no to that . '' bending over , pesh brought his arm under her knees and then lifted her up . she felt so light in his arms as he walked her over to the bed and gently deposited her on the mattress . as he loomed over her , her heartbeat sped up in anticipation the sensual delicacies she was about to experience . tugging on the straps of the bodice , he bared her brsts . his mouth hovered over her nipple , breathing warm air onto the cool tip . it puckered under his attention before his tongue darted out and flicked it . `` mmm , '' she murmured , her fingers tightening in his hair . making slow circles around her nipple , pesh continued his teasing assault . arching her back , she gripped the strands of his hair tighter , willing him to take her nipple in his whole mouth .
finally , he obliged her , sucking the hardened peak into his mouth . while he gave oral attention to one breast , his hand palmed and stroked the other . as the heat and moisture built in her core , megan began sawing her legs back and forth . the friction eased her a little , but she wanted pesh 's fingers , tongue , and dick there more than anything . over the fabric of her bodice , he kissed down her stomach . just as he reached the juncture between her legs , he bypassed it and began kissing and licking the exposed skin on her upper thighs . she groaned in protest . he gazed up at her with a teasing smile . `` did you want me to kiss you somewhere else ? '' raising her hips , she replied , `` you know where i want you-where i want all of you . '' `` patience , my love . '' she muttered . with one quick movement , she was out from underneath him in a flash . surprise filled his face as she flipped him over onto his back and straddled him once again . raking her fingernails down his chest , she stopped just at the waistband of his boxers . as his breath hitched , her hands went to his thighs , scraping a trail up the exposed skin to his dick . his hps bucked up , causing her to smile . `` oh , did you want me to touch you somewhere else ? '' with a growl , he gripped her by the ass and forced her onto her knees . he slid down the mattress to where her core was right at his mouth . his tongue flicked out , sliding along the thin scrap of her panties . she gasped as he flattened his tongue and rubbed it over her clit . even through the fabric , it lit her on fire . as he added more pressure , she began to rock her hps against his face . closing her eyes , she concentrated on the feel of tongue . when he pulled away , she whimpered . his lips came to kiss along her thighs again . just as pesh 's teeth dug into one of the bows on her stockings , megan 's ringtone for mason blared out over her frustrated breaths . pesh protested the interruption with a grunt , but immediately let the stocking fall from his mouth . it 's his bedtime call . i have to take it , '' megan said , as she sat up in the bed . `` it 's all right , my love . i 'm the one with patience , not you , '' he replied , with a smile .
she rolled her eyes at him as she grabbed the phone off the nightstand and answered it . `` hey baby , '' she said , trying to catch her breath . `` hi mommy . miss you . '' her heart warmed hearing his tiny voice while an ache filled her chest . `` oh , i miss you too , sweet boy . are you being good for grammy ? '' `` uh-huh . pway with noah today . '' `` did you ? did you have fun ? '' but caowine cwies . '' megan laughed at his summation of the latest fitzgerald family member . `` i bet she does . she 's a little baby , and they do like to cry . you cried a lot when you were that age . '' `` where daddy ? '' glancing at pesh , megan smiled . `` he 's right here . you want to talk to him ? '' megan handed the phone to pesh . his face lit up as he said , `` hey buddy , how are you ? '' as mason rattled along to pesh , megan could n't help thinking of how happy mason had been on her wedding day . he had played his part as ring bearer wonderfully . everyone commented on how handsome he was in small tux and how much he looked like her . he was so excited to have a daddy and to be part of a real family . he did n't even seem to mind that they were moving away from his grandparents into pesh 's house . of course , pesh had sweetened the moving angst by having a black lab puppy , just like beau , waiting for mason in his new room . he had squealed so loud that megan thought her ear drums were going to burst . `` oh , so beau two pee-peed on grammy 's rug , huh ? '' pesh asked , throwing megan an `` oh shit '' look . while they were away , angie was in charge of both mason and the puppy , who mason had aptly named beau two after his first love , beau . megan could imagine her mother was fit to be tied with her rugs being christened by puppy piss . `` okay , you better go to bed now . mommy and i miss you very , very much . we 're bringing you lots of presents home . '' at mason 's reply , tears shimmered in pesh 's eyes . `` i love you , too , buddy , '' he replied , in a choked voice .
`` say goodnight to mommy , '' he replied , thrusting the phone at megan . a sheepish expression came over pesh 's face as he ground the moisture from his eyes with his fists . megan took the phone . `` night , night , mommy ! '' mason called . `` night , night , baby . you have sweet dreams , and i 'll talk to you tomorrow . '' wuv you ! '' after megan hung up , she still cradled the phone to her ear as if by doing that , she was able to have mason a little closer . pesh 's hand came to rest on hers . `` he 's something , is n't he ? '' `` yes , he is , '' she murmured . `` i know it makes me a complete pansy , but every time he tells me he loves , i ca n't help but cry . '' putting her phone back on the nightstand , megan eased herself over onto pesh 's lap . `` do n't you ever worry that i think you 're a pansy because of what you feel for mason . it makes me love you even more . '' brushing her hand across his cheek , she added , `` a man who is n't afraid of showing his emotions or his vulnerability is very sexy . '' `` mmm , i do . '' `` i 'm glad to hear you say that . '' `` where were we ? '' glancing down at his crotch , pesh said , `` i think we 're starting over from my perspective . '' megan 's hand went to cup his now deflated erection . she rubbed him over the boxers before dipping her hand inside to grip him . pesh hissed in a breath . his head fell back against the headboard as she started stroking his growing length . sliding down his body , she brought her hand to his lap and took him into her mouth . her tongue teasingly flicked across the tip . pesh 's hand came to tangle in her hair . she did leisurely strokes up and down his length before bringing him into her mouth . as she began bobbing up and down , pesh 's groans echoed through the room . as she cut her gaze up to him , he glanced down at her with hooded eyes . `` so good , baby . so , so good , '' he murmured . when he started tensing up , she let him fall free of her mouth . `` i want you to come inside me , '' she said , as she climbed up his body .

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