FLAME (Spark Series) Read online

  “Hi, mum,” he says casually as he lets her arms wrap around him in a tight hug. He hugs her back and lets her hold on for as long as she needs to.

  I hear her tearing up and can’t help tearing up myself. The reunion between Drew and his mom is the sweetest thing ever.

  She finally lets go of him and aims right for me. “You must be Carissa!”

  She catches me off guard as she squeezes me. I wrap my arms around her, welcoming it.

  “It’s nice to meet you, Mrs.—”

  “Oh, please, dear, call me Hilary. It’s so lovely to finally meet you!”

  “Thank you. You, too. I’m really excited to be here.”

  “Oh, Drew, you forgot to mention how beautiful and tiny she is!” she says, giving me a once over. I stand there feeling awkward as she talks about me to Drew.

  “Alright, mum. Let’s get her inside. She’s knackered.” He chuckles lightly, giving me an apologetic look.

  His mom lays out tea for us after we settle in. We’re leaving most of our bags packed since we plan to start looking for a place together.

  “Are you sure you guys don’t want to stay here? There’s plenty of room. Plus, it’ll save you money,” she insists as we all sit around the table.

  I swallow, feeling bad that I’m taking him away from his home.

  “Mum, we cannot live here. It’s best we get our own flat.”

  I hear the sadness in her voice and speak up. “We can stay if you want.” I grab Drew’s hand letting him know it’s alright.

  His mom looks hopeful just before Drew replies. “No, no. We’ll just get in the way. Mum will want to do your laundry and cook dinner every night.”

  My head pops up as I jokingly say, “Well, then why the hell aren’t we staying here?”

  His mom’s eyes widen as she nods desperately. “Yes, see?”

  Drew lets out a loud sigh of defeat and drops it. “I think we need to get some sleep first, mum. We’ll talk about it later.”

  We all say goodnight before heading into Drew’s old room. It’s like a time machine, going back to Drew’s teen years.

  “Oh my god!” I laugh out loud as I look at his room surrounded in supermodel and band posters.

  “Oh shit,” he spits out. “Forgot about these.”

  I can’t help laughing. It’s just too funny watching him get embarrassed. “It’s okay. They can watch, I suppose.”

  I walk up to him and press a hand against his hard chest. “I mean, it’s kind of erotic, isn’t it? Your mom only downstairs…” I wink, although I’m dead serious.

  He adjusts himself, clearly hesitant. “I thought you’d be too tired.”

  “I am…but I have this overwhelming urge to have you right now.”

  I stalk him backward, pushing him onto his bed. “We can be quiet.” I smirk.

  He forcefully grabs my hips, making me straddle him. “You are never quiet,” he growls. “Unless I gag you.”

  I adjust myself, rocking my hips against his hard cock that is threatening to pop out of his jeans. “Do whatever you have to do…”

  * * *

  -Two months later-

  Summer in London is amazing. Waking up to Drew is even better. I’m still adjusting, but I don’t regret my decision one bit. His mother is the sweetest person I’ve ever met, and I love having her around, even if Drew insists we need to move out soon.

  The past two months have been unbelievably life changing. Not only have I grown to know and understand Drew better as I person, but I’ve discovered who I am as well. I feel changed—for the better—as if I’m finally growing up and realizing what’s important.

  I get to meet Cassia and Luke. Luke was visiting his grandparents for the summer and Cassia was visiting colleges when I first arrived. They are both the sweetest and look exactly like Drew. I don’t have any siblings, well, except Laney, who I consider a sister, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, they are pleasant and welcoming.

  As I finish packing, I think about the first place he took me. A real British pub—like the ones I’ve always seen in movies. We ordered fish and chips and drank beer out of huge mugs. It was so simple, yet easily one of the best times of my life.

  “Have everything you need?” Drew asks, peeking into the bedroom.

  “I think so. I packed for a week, just in case.” I zip up the last suitcase. “Are you sure you can’t come?” I give him my best puppy dog eyes.

  “I wish, Doll.” He walks over and kisses me tenderly. Drew nailed an internship in preparation for graduate school this fall. I couldn’t be more proud of his success. He really makes it look easy.

  “Kind of cool we’ll be attending the same school in a couple months.” I smile, just thinking about it. I never thought I’d enroll in college, but I did. And was surprised when they accepted me. Luckily, it hosts undergrads and graduates, so Drew and I will be there together.

  “You’ll be the hot graduate student dating the young freshman,” I tease. He sits on the bed as I happily straddle him.

  “Hmm…that does sound hot. And very naughty. I have a feeling graduate school is going to be much harder than college, and not because of the school work.” He grins foolishly.

  “Oh, I can help you study if need be.” I rub a finger down his chest.

  “You’ll be a distraction…” he purrs as I grind my hips deeper into his.

  “And your point?” I lean into him, letting his mouth capture mine.

  “I have a feeling you are going to want to help me study a lot…” he says between kisses.

  “It’s very possible.” I laugh.

  I’m flying to Texas today. Well, tomorrow by the time I arrive. Laney is due any day and is anxious for me to get there right away.

  “Alright, I better go. The car will be here soon to drive me.” I reluctantly get off his lap, grinning at the bulge I’m leaving behind.

  We say our goodbyes by the car. I’m sad to be leaving him behind, but I’m also excited to be seeing Laney and Eric again.

  * * *

  “Where the hell are you?” Velaney screams into the phone. I’ve just arrived in Texas and am grabbing a cab.

  “I just landed! I’ll be there soon. Are you okay?” I ask nervously.

  “I’ve been having contractions. A person is about to come out of me! How do you think I am?” she snaps.

  I try to hold back a laugh. “I’ll be there as soon as I can,” I promise.

  End of July in Texas is bloody hot. Oh shit. Drew’s slang is totally getting to me. Not to mention, his mother’s thick accent.

  I end up passing out against the window before arriving at her house. The cab driver wakes me up, getting a good view of the drool.

  I wipe my mouth and apologize, completely embarrassed. I’ll never get used to the damn time change.

  “Thanks,” I say as he helps grab my luggage.

  Eric opens the door, greeting me. I can tell how excited he is about becoming a dad soon.

  He wraps his arms around me while I hug him back. “I actually missed you and your sassy mouth.”

  “Thanks, ass. I missed you, too,” I snort. “How’s Laney?”

  He gives me a cringing look. “She’s intolerable. She’s in the living room.” He points.

  “Great.” I smile back at him. If there is one thing I know for sure, it’s that Velaney is strong, but doesn’t do pain well. Especially in the vaginal area.

  “Oh, thank god! You’re here!” She’s lying on the couch, feet up. Her big belly is the first thing I notice as I walk over to her.

  “You look good, Lil’ Mama.”

  “Please get it out of me,” she begs. “The baby doesn’t stop kicking! Stop kicking me!” she yells at her belly, lying back in defeat.

  I kneel down and rub a hand over her swollen belly. I feel the kicks and instantly feel giddy.

  “This is the coolest thing ever.” I gleam.

  “I’m glad you think so,” she snickers. “It really is amazing, though. When it
doesn’t feel like your insides are being beaten alive.”

  “Hey there, little baby. Be nice to your mama. She’s not pretty when she’s mad,” I tease, rubbing and talking to her belly. The baby kicks in response, making me jump and laugh simultaneously.

  Eric joins us, bringing us both iced tea. “Texas is seriously a different world.” I smirk. “Hot tea in London, iced tea in Texas. Look at me all cultured and smart.” I snort.

  “You better tell me all the juicy details. Distract me.”

  I grab Velaney’s legs and lift them up so I can sit on the couch, resting her legs back on me.

  “Well, we’ve been seeing all kinds of amazing places. He just started his internship, so I help his mum during the day and hang out with Cassia and Luke. She tells me all kinds of history about the places we plan to see. She talks about Drew’s childhood. We talk about the future. It’s sweet, ya know? I’ve never really had a mother before, and now she’s practically taken me under her wing—er…roof technically—and she is just the sweetest person ever. She’s been through a lot, and yet she doesn’t hold any of that against anyone. She just lives—happy and content.” I pause, smiling as I think of her and Drew. “I hope to find a job on campus when school begins. Some work-study thing, I guess. Not sure what I’ll be able to do, but I’m excited for even that. And school. I just don’t know what to major in yet. Drew says I have a couple years before I actually need to pick one, but it makes me nervous not having one and—” I realize I’m rambling and quickly look at Velaney who’s panting heavily, breathing in and out slowly. “Are you alright?”

  She only shakes her head no. I yell for Eric, who soon rushes to her side.

  “It’s time,” I hear her whisper.

  I push her feet off me gently and stand up.

  “What can I do?” I ask panicky.

  “Let’s get her to the hospital. I’ll call her doctor on the way.”

  I help Eric as much as I can, grabbing her overnight bag and anything else we think she needs.

  She squeezes my hand the entire ride to the hospital. I try not to let it show that I’m freaking out, but inside, I totally am.

  “Breathe…Laney…breathe,” I coach, unsure of what else to really say. This is all so new and scary.

  Eric acts like a natural, a pro. As soon as they get her into the hospital bed he begins bringing her ice chips, rubbing her back, and placing a washcloth on her forehead. I watch in awe, thinking how Laney really got lucky in finding a good man for herself.

  The nurses come and go, checking her stats and asking how she is. She denies any medication, because well, she’s crazy, but she does her best to breathe through all the contractions and pain.

  “Oh my god! Get this child out of me! Ahhh!” she begins screaming as the doctor tells her it’s time to push.

  “Velaney, sweetheart, you are doing great. Don’t give up,” Eric says trying to soothe her.

  “Don’t tell me not to give up, dammit! This is taking too long! Something is wrong!” she cries out and it makes me nervous. She’s tired and in a ton of pain, and now she’s trying to push the baby out…

  Eric and I each hold a hand, bracing ourselves for her tight squeezes and claws. Good god…just watching her, I’m in pain.

  “Laney, sweetie, you’re almost there.” I rub a hand over her sweaty head, encouraging her. “Keep pushing!”

  She screams out curse words, begging, pleading for the baby to come out. I feel horrible for her. I hate seeing her in pain.

  “Please, give me the drugs! I’ve changed my mind! I need them!” she begs, crying. She grabs Eric by the collar and pulls his face into hers, “Give. Me. The. Drugs.”

  My eyes widen as she gets aggressive. I continue rubbing her head and arm, hoping to soothe her as she continues pushing.

  “Oh my god! I hate you! I hate you all,” she groans, falling back on the bed.

  The doctor talks her into pushing one more time, and then she’s finally here.

  “It’s a girl! She’s absolutely perfect. Congratulations, you guys!” the doctor calls out.

  I smile so wide I’m practically laughing.

  “I am so proud of you, sweetheart.” I hear Eric whisper. The moment is surreal and sweet.

  “She really is beautiful,” I say as I hold her for the first time. She has a head full of dark hair and looks just like Eric.

  “I can’t believe you pushed that out of your vagina,” I snort.

  “Hey, you wanted to watch.”

  “And I’m now regretting that. But I’m glad I’m here now.” I smile genuinely.

  We all soak up the moment, admiring this tiny person who is now part of the family. Part of me regrets not being around to watch her grow up, but I make a promise to visit as much as I can.

  We spend the next five days together. I try my best to give them their family private time, but Velaney is so exhausted that I help out any way I can. Eventually though, I have to say goodbye.

  “Alright, little girl. Listen to Aunt Carissa.” I rock her back and forth as I walk around the living room. “I have to leave for a little bit. So you and I need to come to an agreement. You be good for your mama and daddy, and when I return, I promise to bring lots of goodies for you. Deal?”

  She’s snug in a blanket, wrapped like a burrito. She’s beautiful. I inhale her fresh baby scent and frown when I have to put her back down. My car is here to take me to airport.

  Velaney is an emotional basket case and cries the second we hug, which makes me cry.

  “I’ll visit, I promise!” I squeeze her tighter.

  “You better. I love you, Riss.”

  I release and push back, getting a good look at her face. I chuckle at the both of us.

  “We’re hot messes.”

  It makes her laugh.

  “I love you, Lane. I’ll call as soon as I land, okay?”

  I hug Eric and kiss Megan once more before heading out. Ugh…I have a feeling this is never going to get easier.

  26

  I have serious jet leg by the time I land in London. I just want to go home and sleep. For days.

  Drew’s at the airport, greeting me with a beautiful bouquet of roses.

  “What’s with the flowers?” I ask suspiciously.

  He wraps me in a hug and kisses me hard on the mouth.

  “Can’t a boyfriend bring his girlfriend flowers?” he asks slyly.

  “Suuuuure.” I grab them from him and immediately smell them, inhaling their fresh flowery scent. “Mm, they smell amazing. Thank you.”

  We hold hands and walk to luggage claim. He’s a proper gentleman and carries my bags for me, not even letting me hold my carry on.

  There’s a car ready to drive us home outside the airport. I’m so relieved as all I want is a shower and a bed. In that order.

  He tells me to rest my head on his lap, so I do. It’s a long drive, so I gladly accept his offer.

  I feel his hand rub my head, putting me in a lazy trance. I let my eyes close as the driver takes off.

  Drew gently shakes me awake, and I jolt up, unaware that I had fallen asleep. “We’re here, Doll.”

  I look outside and don’t recognize anything. “Where are we?” I ask confused, rubbing my eyes.

  “Come and you’ll see.” He grins.

  I follow him as we walk on the sidewalk up to a gorgeous building. “What are we doing?”

  “Welcome to our new flat,” he says, smiling down at me as I stand here confused as ever.

  “What? Really?” My eyes widen in surprise.

  He grabs me, setting the luggage down. He tilts my chin up to look at him.

  “This is our first flat together. It’s special. Because it’s where you and I are going to grow our lives together. We’ll fight. We’ll make up. We’ll grow. Whatever we do, we’ll be doing it together. Here. And I don’t want to wait another minute to start that life with you.”

  “Wow…I…what about Hilary?” I ask, stunned.

  “She he
lped me plot the whole surprise. We’re already all moved in.”

  “Oh my god! No unpacking!” I laugh.

  He grabs my hand and leads me toward the entrance. I’m giddy and nervous as we walk to the elevator.

  I expect us to be on a lower level. Everything in London is crazy expensive, but the higher up the flats, the more they cost.

  And then he hits the big P button.

  “Where the hell are we going?”

  He looks down and smiles without saying a word. He glances at our connected hands and brings it to his mouth, laying a perfectly soft kiss.

  I stay silently stunned, letting him guide me out of the elevator as we walk into the most gorgeous place I have ever seen. It’s the top floor of the building, and I almost want to pinch myself to see if I’m still in the cab and dreaming.

  “What? How? I—” I stumble. I’m in complete shock, knowing damn well we can’t afford a place like this. “How is this possible?”

  He continues leading as we take the tour, showing me room after room. The place is huge and way too big for just two people.

  “Isn’t it wonderful?” he asks, breaking the spell.

  “Yes,” I agree. “Why are we here? I mean, how is this even an option? It’s huge,” I ramble off, seriously conflicted about how I feel.

  He finally turns toward me and grabs my other hand, looking right into my eyes. “I bought this for us. I want us to have a life here. I want to share my future with you, and I hope you do, too.” I see the sincerity in his eyes and it makes me melt. He’s flawless anytime he shares his feelings with me, making me really want to try and do the same. I’ve never been good at expressing mine, but for him, I really try.

  “I hope you know by now I want that, too. I’m not going anywhere if that’s what you’re thinking. The future doesn’t scare me anymore. Rather, it makes me happy. It makes me feel like the luckiest girl in the world, because I get to share my future with you.”

  He leans in, grabbing my face and kisses me, deeply and tenderly. Everything with Drew feels right. It feels like I’m in the right place in my life with him. And I’ve never had that feeling before, so I know it’s true.

  “So, are you going to tell me how we’re affording this place?” I break the kiss, demanding answers.