If Only

Chapter Twenty-One: Chained

Skillfully using his tongue, he slid it into my mouth, evoking a deep moan. I tried to wriggle free, but he held my wrists firmly, asserting dominance.

After a lingering kiss, he playfully pecked the corner of my lips before embarking on a trail of wet, sensual kisses along my jawline, down to my neck. My lower lip found itself between my teeth as I surrendered to the sensations, especially when he nibbled on the most sensitive part of my neck.

"I knew you'd yield," I gasped breathlessly, earning a hearty chuckle from him. His resonant voice sent shivers down my spine, igniting a passionate fire within.

He pulled back slightly, his pupils dilating, turning his blue eyes a darker shade. My gaze wandered to his swollen lips, and I couldn't help but envision myself biting and teasing them, a thought that sent a shiver of desire down my spine.

"Isn't it supposed to be the other way around?" he teased, his ego stoked by my response. I decided to play along, determined to break down his walls.

"Is it?" I responded, biting my lip provocatively. His eyes darkened further, promising more intensity to come.

Just as the heat between us was reaching its peak, my mother's voice called out from the other side of the door, abruptly interrupting our passionate encounter.

Jared restrained himself, and in the blink of an eye, his eyes reverted to their previous state, devoid of any dilation. I couldn't discern whether the expression on his face revealed disappointment or annoyance at my mother's untimely interruption. He pulled away, taking a seat on the edge of the bed. I joined him, my own expression somewhat pouty.

"This is the second time your mom's caught us," he teased, a mischievous smile playing on his lips as he inched closer to me. I couldn't help but chuckle as he continued, "...but I can handle it." He bridged the gap between us, capturing my mouth in a hungry kiss, unwilling to let go. Only the sturdy door separating us from my mother reminded us of the outside world.

I giggled softly amid the kiss and whispered, "I'll be right back." I gave him one last peck on the lips before standing up and making my way to the door.

*****

I approached the door, momentarily forgetting Jared wasn't allowed under our roof. My steps halted halfway as I faced my mom, who oddly looked dressed up without leaving the house.

"Yes, mom?" I smiled, trying to hide any suspicion.

"Just wanted to say your dad called. He's... umm... coming home for the weekend," my mom nervously shared.

Her cautious words and expression hinted at something more. Ah, the weekend – my father's birthday.

"Of course, it's his big day," I replied, lacking enthusiasm. The celebration would be a major event, attended by significant figures. Attendees, including co-founders, would gather to celebrate my reputedly good father. It was another day of dividing fortunes, a chapter in their history I didn't relish.

I tried to leave, but my mom insisted on fixing the broken bond with my father. Despite my mistreatment, he lingered as an unyielding presence. No one could take that away, especially with a colossal secret in tow – Jared, the guy with blonde hair and blue eyes, now lounging on my bed.

My mind raced, contemplating the fallout if my father discovered Jared's existence. The specters of disownment, identity erasure, and homelessness loomed large. Yet, oddly, these fears didn't consume me now. Jared's influence had blurred my judgment, eclipsing the warning signs.

Returning to reality, I noticed my mom had propped the door open, thwarting my attempt to shut it. A hint of disappointment crossed her face as she realized her persuasion had faltered.