The wilde side, p.23
THE WILDE SIDE, page 23
Now he just hoped she didn't panic or refuse him when they arrived at their final location, which was a distinct possibility. He was taking a huge risk, but today's date with Ashley was important to him, for a variety of reasons.
"I had no idea you owned such a flashy sports car," Ashley commented, bringing him out of his private thoughts.
Scott slanted her a boyish grin, pleased that she liked his silver Corvette Coupe. It had been a big indulgence for him when he was normally a very practical kind of guy. "I use my work truck on a daily basis, and I save the Corvette for special occasions. I keep it covered in the garage. That's why you haven't seen the car before today."
She caressed a hand down the soft leather seat, and he wished those fingers were on his thigh inside, giving him the same treatment as the chair. "Well, I like it. It fits your wild side."
He chuckled at her play on words. "I'll admit it's a fun toy."
Her green eyes sparkled with amusement. "For a fun day, obviously."
Grasping her hand, he flattened her palm on his thigh, right where he wanted it to be. "I hope so."
"Well, you certainly have me curious about today." She glanced out the passenger window, taking in the passing scenery as he drove away from the city limits. "Any hint on where we're heading?"
"Nope." He stroked his fingers along her hand, absently tracing the indentation of each finger, enjoying that simple connection between them. "We'll be there in about fifteen minutes, and you'll see then."
She leaned across the console and murmured huskily in his ear. "Is there any way I might be able to wear down your resistance and make you tell me what I'm dying to know?"
Her fingers brushed the fly of his slacks, tempting him to spill everything. His groin stirred, reminding him just how long it had been since he'd been inside of Ashley, and he pulled her hand away before he let her finish what she'd started.
"I really don't want to spoil the surprise." I really don't want you to freak out on me before we even get there, was more like it.
A feigned pout appeared on her glossy lips, which did nothing to diminish the glow of anticipation in her gaze. "Oh, all right."
They ended up in a suburb outside of Chicago, and he watched Ashley's excitement turn to confusion as he drove down a street lined with cars parked in every available space, then guided the Corvette into a long driveway. He came to a stop next to his cousin Steve's black SUM cut the engine, and turned toward Ashley, preparing himself for her reaction.
She glanced from the big house in front of them to him and frowned. "Where are we?" Her tone was cautious and wary.
Still holding her hand, he laced their fingers together and caressed his thumb across her knuckles. "We're at my aunt and uncle's house."
Her eyes grew round with shock and disbelief as his words registered. "This is the special place you wanted to take me today? To meet your family?"
He nodded calmly, hoping she'd remain equally so, even though he could already see her panic rising. "Yes. My cousin Adrian is getting married today, and I wanted you to be here with me for the ceremony and reception, which is being held in my aunt and uncle's backyard."
She shook her head frantically and tried to tug her hand from his grasp, but he refused to let go, refused to allow her to withdraw from him or the situation. "Scott, we can't ... I can't do this!"
"Why not?"
"You have to ask?" she balked incredulously. "Meeting your family wasn't part of our deal. Not only do I not want anyone to assume that the two of us are serious, but I'd rather not have anyone know that I'm Ashley St. Claire. It'll just complicate matters."
In his mind, all her concerns were easily remedied. It was just a matter of him being able to ease her fears and insecurities. "First of all, no one is going to assume anything. I'll introduce you as my date with no mention of you being a St. Claire." And he knew he could count on his brothers, Steve, and Cameron to be discreet about her social status. "Secondly, I doubt there will be anyone here that you know since the wedding is a small, intimate, family affair, so having any of this get back to your parents or Evan or anyone else is not an issue."
She bit her bottom lip, indecision shining in her eyes. "Scott, I just don't know."
"Look, I understand your apprehension. I really do," he said in a low, soothing tone. "But it's only one day of our time together, and it would mean a lot to me if you stayed and met my family and were able to see a part of my life. However, if this makes you feel that uncomfortable and you want to leave, I'll take you back to my place for your car and return without you. The choice is completely yours."
Ashley stared at the man sitting beside her, holding her hand so affectionately while he waited patiently for her answer. Before the moment when they'd arrived at his aunt and uncle's home, she'd decided to put everything out of her mind, all the doubt and issues that had been plaguing her for the past month, and enjoy the day, Scott, and whatever he intended to do with her.
She'd never anticipated where he'd be taking her, that it would include something as intimate as his cousin's wedding and mingling with his family. No, she hadn't bargained for this, and she was torn over what she knew she ought to do and what she longed to do. Her mind insisted that she leave, but her heart... Oh, God, her heart was telling her to stay, to share this incredibly special day with Scott and to hell with her conscience and that little voice in her head warning her to be careful.
She was leaving for San Francisco in a week, to begin that new life she swore was so important to her. But as for today, she was going to embrace what she wanted for a change, without guilt or regrets.
She released a deep breath, along with any last remaining doubts, and met Scott's gaze. "Let's go inside before the ceremony begins without us."
A devastatingly sexy smile lifted the corners of his mouth, and his eyes gleamed like polished sapphires. "Thank you, sweetheart. You just made me a very happy man." He leaned over and kissed her, a warm brush of his lips across her cheek that left her aching for so much more.
Hand in hand they entered the house, and she was instantly swept up into the warmth and hospitality that seemed a natural part of the Wilde family – immediate and extended. They quickly made the rounds of introductions before the wedding began, and she met his father and stepmother, and his sister, Mia, whom she immediately liked. In the younger woman, Ashley recognized a part of herself that she'd spent years suppressing – an adventurous spirit and boldness that Ashley envied.
She was formally introduced to his brothers Joel and Alex, both of whom made no mention of the night she'd met Scott or the bet that had prompted Scott to approach her, which Ashley appreciated. Dana, Alex's girlfriend, graciously welcomed her, as well.
Then there was Eric and Jill, and Ashley found it amusing to watch how the man doted and fussed over his very pregnant wife. She met Steve and had only a brief chance to say hello to Liz, who was in the beginning stage of labor and was resting in between contractions, though she'd insisted on staying to watch Adrian and Chayse get married. As for the bride and groom themselves, they were sequestered in separate rooms in the house until the wedding began.
Before Scott could introduce her to friends, an announcement was made that all guests were to take their seats outside, and the ceremony was set to commence in ten minutes.
The backyard had been beautifully transformed for the occasion, with a white runner leading to a wedding arch adorned in white and lavender flowers and draped in ribbons that flowed in the light afternoon breeze. Scott led her to the front of the row of chairs, and they sat down next to Cameron, one of Steve's good friends and his business partner.
The small bridal party took their positions, with Adrian's brothers, Steve and Eric, standing in as ushers beside their sibling. On the bride's side stood Mia, who Scott told her was a good friend of Chayse's, as well as another friend, Faith, both of whom were beaming as Chayse began her walk down the runner toward the arch while the wedding march played in the background.
Ashley was surprised to see Adrian's father escorting Chayse, until Scott leaned close to her and explained that Chayse's own father wasn't a part of her life and had declined attending the wedding. Ashley's heart went out to the other woman, though it was obvious that the elder Mr. Wilde was extremely proud and honored to walk his future daughter-in-law down the aisle to his son.
The actual ceremony was short but meaningful, and it was clear to everyone who looked upon the bride and groom that the two were deeply in love with each other. Ashley experienced a pang of longing as she watched Chayse and Adrian exchange their wedding vows, and knew that these two were destined to be together forever, that their relationship was based on honest emotion, respect, and devotion.
The minister pronounced them husband and wife, Adrian planted an enthusiastic kiss on his bride that had the guests cheering, and then the celebration began in earnest. A band played songs that got the crowd moving, and the chairs were cleared away for a wooden dance floor. A buffet was set up with an array of food to choose from, drinks and champagne flowed freely, and a party atmosphere ensued.
"Hey, everyone!" Steve Wilde stood up on the band's platform, microphone in hand, waiting until it was quiet and he had everyone's attention. It took a few moments, but once all eyes were on him, he grinned broadly and made his announcement. "Looks like I might be a dad tonight. Liz's contractions are increasing and I'm going to take her to the hospital, but I want everyone to stay and enjoy the reception and welcome Chayse to the Wilde family. I'll be sure to call with updates and let you all know when the baby gets here."
Steve's gaze scanned the crowd and came to a stop on his brother Eric and Jill. "As for those of you who are in on the bet of whose baby is going to arrive first, it looks like the odds are in our favor."
"The night is still young," Eric called out, displaying a good amount of sibling rivalry, "so don't discount the possibility that we're not out of the race yet!"
Jill placed a hand on her burgeoning belly and rolled her eyes at her husband's rebuttal, while the guests clapped and cheered as Steve ushered Liz on their way.
"Would you like something to drink?" Scott asked her once the merriment had died down.
"Sure." She smiled, realizing just how much she was enjoying herself. "I'd love a glass of champagne."
"You got it." He winked at her. "Be right back."
Ashley watched him make his way to the bar, her eyes drawn to his broad shoulders and that sexy swagger of his. The rapid beat of her pulse, the rush of desire that infused her entire body, was all part of her attraction to Scott Wilde. But it was the happiness filling her heart, and oh, Lord, the contentment settling within her that caught her off guard.
"Ashley?"
At the sound of someone calling her name, she turned to find a familiar face, and her shock rendered her momentarily speechless.
The good-looking man smiled as he approached, equally surprised to see her. "I saw you from across the yard, and I thought it was you, but wasn't sure."
"Oh my God, Matthew Carlton," she managed to say. The Carltons were longtime friends of her family, and she and Matthew, a pediatric surgeon, had always maintained an amicable friendship over the years. "What are you doing here?"
He pointed across the way, to the bridesmaids helping the new Mrs. Wilde pin up the short train of her wedding gown. "I'm here with my wife, Faith," he said, his voice infused with pride and affection. "You met her at the hotel boutique a while back, remember? She's one of Chayse's good friends."
What a small world, Ashley thought. And yes, she did recall briefly meeting the other woman, but she'd had no idea that's who Matthew had ended up with.
"I'd heard you'd gotten married recently," she said. "I guess congratulations are in order, though I'm sure I don't have to tell you that you caused quite a stir by eloping with your new bride, instead of opting for a big, formal wedding." Ashley had been privy to that bit of gossip from her own mother, who'd commiserated with the fact that Mrs. Carlton had missed out on planning an elaborate celebration for her son.
Matthew merely laughed. "A big, formal wedding is what my mother wanted. Faith and I agreed we wanted to avoid a huge public display, so we took off for a weekend in Las Vegas and came back married."
Ashley silently applauded his decision. Having watched her sister go through all the pomp and circumstance of an extravagant ceremony and reception, it was something that Ashley wouldn't mind avoiding, as well, when the time came. "As long as you're both happy, that's all that matters."
"We are." Matthew tipped his head curiously. "So, what are you doing here at Chayse and Adrian's wedding?"
"She's with me." Scott came up to the two of them, just in time to hear the other man's question. He gave Ashley her champagne and extended his hand toward Matthew with a friendly grin. "Scott Wilde."
"Matthew Carlton." Speculation shone in his eyes as he looked from Scott to Ashley, but he didn't voice the questions lingering in his gaze. And for that, Ashley was grateful.
Faith came up to her husband, hooked her arm in his, and said hello to everyone. Another round of introductions were made before the pretty woman smiled at Ashley. "They're getting ready to toss the bouquet if you want to join the group of single women out on the dance floor," she suggested.
Ashley shook her head. "I think I'll pass."
Scott lowered his mouth to her ear and murmured only for her to hear, "Afraid you might catch it?"
She took a drink of her champagne to calm the flutters taking flight in her belly and refused to rise to his dare. "No, I just think it ought to go to a more deserving woman."
"You're very deserving, Ashley. More than you're willing to admit, even to yourself." Before she could respond to his very profound statement, he grabbed her hand and pulled her to the edge of the dance floor, saying along the way, "If you're not going to participate, we can at least watch and see who the lucky woman is going to be."
They found a place next to Eric and Jill, who were standing on the sidelines, just as Chayse pitched the bouquet over her head. Three women jumped at the same time to catch the arrangement, and it was Mia who claimed the prize as her own. She did a little victory dance that had Ashley and Jill laughing and Scott and Eric groaning at her too enthusiastic response.
Next up was the garter toss, and Scott joined his brothers and the other bachelors gathering out on the dance floor. Once Adrian removed the frilly elastic band from Chayse's thigh, he shot the garter over his shoulder toward the group of men, and while Scott made a grab for the souvenir, he and others missed the flying object. Instead, it smacked Cameron in the chest, who hadn't even tried to catch the thing, then dropped and snagged on his belt buckle on the way down.
Beside Ashley, Jill giggled. "Oh, my. I guess that was meant to be."
Cameron plucked the garter from his waistband and glared at the offending object, while the rest of the guys standing around him slapped him on his back and offered up congratulations ... as well as sympathetic condolences.
Mia sauntered toward Cameron and crooked her finger at him. "Come on, sugar," she teased, a cheeky grin curving her lips and a come-hither look in her eyes. "I dare you to slip that garter on my leg for the picture."
Cameron lifted a dark brow at her reckless taunt, issued so boldly in front of friends and family. "Dare I risk my manhood?"
She tossed her head back and laughed huskily. "Don't be afraid, sugar, I won't bite ... much."
Rising to the challenge, Cameron strolled to the middle of the dance floor to do the deed. With Mia sitting in a chair and Cameron kneeling in front of her, the band struck up the appropriate tune, "Legs," by ZZ Top.
"Now that's quite a sight," Joel said, his tone amused as he looked on, too.
The couple had everyone's attention, and it didn't take Ashley long to figure out that Mia and Cameron were fighting a very intense attraction ... or rather, it was Cameron who seemed to be resisting, but like most men, he wasn't about to back down from the temptation Mia presented.
The sexual tension and byplay between the two continued, with each one trying to top the other in their verbal sparring. But in the end Mia seemed to get more than she bargained for as Cameron slipped the garter over her stocking-clad foot and slid it slowly upward. His hands disappeared beneath the hem of her bridesmaid gown, the frothy material of her dress gathering around his wrists as he traveled higher and higher...
Mia sucked in a quick breath, and her gaze widened as he reached her thigh, leaving the audience to wonder what Cameron had done to illicit such a reaction. The wicked grin on his face spoke volumes and also caused the men to whistle catcalls and cheer him on.
Once he had the garter in place, Cameron pushed the skirt of her gown up, revealing the elastic band he'd positioned on her thigh. He smiled for the photographer, who captured the moment on film. But instead of reclaiming his prize once his job was done, Cameron left the garter on Mia's leg and stood.
She swept her gaze up the length of him, until their fiery gazes met and held. "Aren't you going to take it back off?"
"I think you should keep it," Cameron said smugly. "Maybe some day you'll find a guy who likes to do your bidding and will gladly take it off for you."
Mia gave a sassy toss of her head, causing her thick black hair to swirl around her shoulders. "I'm sure that won't be a problem."
"I already feel sorry for the poor sucker," he said with humor, then turned and walked off the dance floor before she could issue a reply to that.
"Wow, I'm impressed," Scott's brother Alex commented in an awed tone. "It's not very often that anyone gets the last word with Mia."
Ashley smiled at the other man and his girlfriend, Dana. "I don't think I've ever seen such heated sexual tension between two people before."
