Ember. | #1 Axis Series

2. The Encounter

- Troy Lancaster -

I watch as her features fill with shock, her grey eyes widen as the words sink in and she bites down on those luscious lips of hers. I feel myself twitch at the sight of her chest rising and falling with each breath she takes. Jesus, I can't wait to have this woman under me, her face masked in pleasure. I trail my eyes lower, along her hips that conjure into smooth, hairless legs. The angel has curves that could bring even the strongest man to his knees. She's absolutely beautiful, stunning even. Her innocence is refreshing when all you are used to is stick figure women who want nothing more than to warm your sheets for the night. I've had plenty of it and I have no need for it now that I've laid eyes on this goddess.

I have to say, when Anne spoke about her daughter, I was intrigued. I expected to meet some spoiled Barbie doll with two much makeup on last night, but seeing her at that front desk blew any description of her out of the water. She has a light to her, a brightness and I plan to see how far and wide that light shines. I cut my eyes back up to hers when I realize she's still quiet.

"Emmy, honey, are you alright? You've lost your color," Anne asks, coming out from behind the counter.

Ember smiles slightly. "I'm fine, Mom," she assures. She turns to me. "May I ask what it is you want exactly, Mr. Lancaster?"

I chuckle. "It's Troy. I believe I owe you an apology. If you'll allow me a moment of your time, I would like to act on my intentions."

"Wait a minute. You two did meet?" Anne questions, surprised. Ah, I see sweet little Ember didn't explain last night to her mother.

"Yes," Ember rushes to explain. "I waited on him for an hour last night and he practically stood me up. I ran into him just as he decided to show."

"Is that true, Troy?" Anne asks.

I nod my head in shame. "An important business meeting ended later than expected. As I told your daughter, I had planned to be there quite early. I didn't intend to hurt her feelings or give the impression that I did."

"Oh, sweetie. Give me a second, I'll bring some cake to a table. The two of you can talk amongst yourselves."

"Mom, you don't have to do-"

"Ember Leona, be still and do as your mother says. Great things may come your way, darlin'," Anne scolds. I bite back my laughter as Ember shoots an adorable glare my way. She's so cute.

I take a seat at the nearest table and Ember reluctantly does the same. I unbutton my jacket and straighten my tie. "Did you just come from another meeting?" Ember questions.

I shake my head. "No, I thought I'd stop by before I went to the office. It's about five minutes from here on Main," I explain, my eyes still on her. She has her hands clasped together on the tabletop. Her long, brown hair fans her shoulders, the light from the sun causing it to shine more than it naturally appears.

"You don't have to go in at a certain time?" Her tone is confused, which surprises me. Anne didn't tell her what I did for a living? She must not read magazines. Either that or she doesn't get out much.

"Not exactly."

"You're wearing a suit today and also last night. I'd say your work must have some demands."

I chuckle. "I'm the boss. I own my enterprise outright. Not very many people mess with me. You have no idea who I am, do you?"

She shrugs. "My loving mother didn't give very many details. What do you do for a living, exactly?"

"I'm involved in many things such as real estate, lingerie companies, and mergers and acquisitions. But I've made the majority of my money from condominiums and hotels."

She is quiet as an employee delivers two pieces of chocolate cake to our table. I break the silence. "I'd like to take you out, Ember. I f****d up last night and I don't do that. Ever. I intend to fix that. I would also like to know more about you," I tell her.

Her eyes close tightly for a moment. "Why? Most people would apologize and leave it be."

"I'm not most people, babe. I don't take women out, but I'm asking you." I finish my cake and stand, buttoning my jacket and straightening my tie. Ember stands, too, gathering her hair to make a ponytail.

"When?" She asks, her voice soft.

"Tonight. Can you be at my place by seven?"

It's Friday, but that doesn't mean I don't have a busy day. I work seven days a week, no matter what. From what Anne has told me, Ember doesn't work on weekends, which means she's mine for the night.

"Your place?"

"Yes. I want to make you dinner. Is seven okay?" I ask again.

"Uhm...I get off at seven," she murmurs.

"I'll send for you at seven, then. My driver, Forrest, will pick you up," I explain to her. I kiss her cheek before striding out the door. I retrieve my phone from the pocket of my suit and dial Forrest's number. He's been told of the situation with Ember already, so I don't need to explain. He answers after the first ring.

"I need you to pick Ember up for me at seven. Bring her to my place," I tell him.

"Yes, sir. And what of you?" He asks, his Australian accent thick.

"I'm driving today. Don't worry about me," I hang up. I dial my secretary, Maggie. She has worked for me for about three years now. She's the best at what she does and came to me highly recommended.

"I want you to buy some shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Something a woman would like. Other than those things, have my coffee ready and on my desk. I'll be there in five minutes," I order, hanging up.

I run my hands through my hair and look back at the bakery one last time before getting into my car and driving off.