Christmas in Camden Read online

  Chapter 3

  Holly

  The cool air should have taken the breath away from me, but with Gavin’s warmth surrounding me, I felt comfortable. I hated the cold weather, truly hated it. It’s why I left Chicago now during the winter. Back home it was cold and the snow was blizzard-like. By Monday it would be a blizzard. I promised my mom that I would be back in time for Christmas because we always spent it together, so I had enough time for that even with the storm coming tomorrow. It was expected to drop two feet of snow in twenty-four hours. That was going to delay traffic and make travel near impossible. Being here was definitely better, especially now.

  I felt his hand on the small of my back through all my layers.

  “Are you cold, my dear?” Fuck, did he have to throw in the endearment? I was already trying to stand straight with my weak knees. The guy was sexy on top of sexy with a dash of whipped cream to taste. It was not fair, completely disarming.

  "No," I responded softly. I was shivering from the tenderness of his touch. "So where to?"

  "How about a short trip to the tree in Trafalgar Square?"

  "Oh, sounds good." I rubbed my hands together, then he snatched the right one and led us hand in hand down the street.

  "Is it far? I mean, I made sure to have money for cabs." My face flushed at the implication I just made. I knew he worked at the coffee shop, but I just shoved my foot in my mouth there.

  "It's not far, but if you don't want to walk we can hop in a cab. I just thought you'd enjoy the sights on the way."

  "Oh yes, of course. I'm sorry if that came off wrong."

  "No, I understand. I'm not offended in the least. It's payday as it is." He winked, keeping that British charm and notching it up a little more.

  "What are you studying in school?"

  "Politics. I want to run for president one day," I said, shocking him given his expression. "I'm kidding. I'm almost done with my degree in the culinary arts."

  "Beautiful and can cook. I must say I'm quids in, love."

  I blushed not understanding the meaning, but hey I got the gist. He was happy about my skills. They weren’t the best. I’d probably lose in a cooking competition, but I could manage a small restaurant.

  “You’re a silly man. What’s that?” I asked, looking at a phone box thing dressed up with its door open.

  “Oh that, my love, is a temporary coffee station. It’s up for the holidays.”

  “That’s freaking sweet. Wow, it’s so pretty out here.”

  “Well, you’ve caught a wonderful moment when the snow is still pristine. Soon it will be a mucky mess.”

  “I’m used to it.” He held my hand tighter as we crossed streets like I was a child. When there was a large crowd, he pulled me close. It was extremely nice, but it wasn’t meant to be. It was almost caveman like. Several men took notice of me and I could feel Gavin stiffen beside me like he was ready to knock one of them out.

  This man was a dream come true and I was falling hard. It didn’t help that he was funny, sweet, ridiculously gorgeous. We stopped at this little outdoor stand with fresh warm nuts. He wrapped his arm around my shoulder. I felt the warmth coming off him and I wanted to snuggle in closer. The only way I could get closer was if he carried me around. Every once in a while, I would feel his hand give my arm a gentle squeeze.

  “Don’t be eating all my nuts,” he said, looking down at me with a smile.

  “You shouldn’t have handed them to me. They are so delicious.” I heard his groan and I knew he got my innuendo. I wasn’t a sexual person at all, but a girl had to learn sometime. He planted a kiss on the side of my head, shaking his head and chuckling.

  I tried to focus. I only had so many days to enjoy all things London before I had to head back. This was a once in a lifetime trip. We reached Trafalgar Square where a massive Christmas tree stood, reminding me of Daley Plaza. People from all around took pictures and sipped drinks while standing in the festive square. “What is this place called again?” I asked him.

  “Trafalgar Square,” he said, catching my smile. I purposefully had him repeat it to me just so I could hear him say it. The word, so foreign to me, rolled off his tongue like butter.

  “Holly, are you making me say it on purpose?”

  “Please, say whatever you like, it sounds so sexy.”

  “Holly, we are in a public place,” he admonished me. I immediately tried to pull away, but he tightened his hold on me. “I’m not upset by it. I’m rather jolly,” he whispered in my ear, his ridge rubbing slightly against my thigh.

  “Oh,” I muttered. “Then perhaps we should go somewhere private.” He stepped back and gave me a surprised expression.

  “Don’t look at me like that. If you do, I may lose my nerve.”

  “My dear, if you’re tempted to back out, then it’s probably for the best that we didn’t. We have tomorrow and the next.”

  “Oh, you’re right.” I felt mortified. I gave him an in and he turned me down.

  “Don’t do that. Don’t second guess yourself. I want you, beyond reason. I assure you, that when I say you could end up never leaving if I had my way, I mean it. But I want you to be sure you want that.” I didn’t know how to respond to words that demanded a reply because his gorgeous eyes, glazed from the cold air, stared into my soul. “You don’t know what you’ve gotten yourself into, Miss Carlson. My family is crazy, and once they get wind of you, I might see you ducking and diving until you’re on the next flight to America.”

  "I think it's genetic," I joked.

  "Totally is."

  "I might have to pack and head to Heathrow as soon as I get to the hotel,” I told him. He tightened his grip on me with a playful smile. Even in the cold air, I felt nothing but heat pumping between us.

  "Are you giving me an excuse to kidnap you? I believe I was given a week. I'm going to hold you to that, even if I have to squirrel you away in the family cottage up north in Cambridge,” he challenged.

  "You know, you're not helping your case,” I lied. He was so helping it. I wanted this man to take my virginity and much more. Even if we never saw each other again, I knew it would be good. His kisses were like magic. I was completely lusting after him. This wasn’t me and I should get myself together, but I don’t want to stop.

  "I beg to differ, my dear." He leaned down and pulled me in for another kiss. Once his lips closed around mine, I melted into his arms.

  “Get a bloody room, you fucking wanker,” a man yelled, passing by us. Gavin pulled back, holding me close then ducking his head. I suppose that wasn’t something people did around here. Then I looked over and nope that was most definitely done. There were at least two other couples kissing.

  “I’m sorry for embarrassing you, Holly. I’ve lost all respectability when it comes to you.”

  “Good, I want to lose my respectability with you, my virginity too.”

  “What the bloody shit! Did you just say what I thought you said?”

  “Um. I didn’t think it was a big deal. Sorry. I suppose we should go.”

  “What the fuck? Yes, we’re going. Dinner first then I’m taking you home where I plan to deflower you, tie you to my bed, and hide you from my family until your belly swells with my kid and you can’t run from meeting my parents.”

  “Wow, that went from zero to sixty like a damn Ferrari,” I tossed out there. I still wanted him, but I didn’t want my hopes up because he was so perfect. Like seriously the guy was a walking advertisement for the perfect man and yet he was practically promising me forever.

  “I can’t help it. From the moment I met you it’s the way I felt. The more we talk, the more I want. I want to know all about the times you broke the rules or if you were a goody-goody. Did you ever get caught completely knackered around your parents?”

  “My dad left when I was born and my mother, well s
he did her best, but the money was hard to come by. I don’t know what knackered means. But I was a good girl. Obviously, since I still carry my v-card.”

  “Well, I plan to defile you, most thoroughly, relieving you of said card. I mean have you gotten sloshed, drunk?”

  “Oh yes, but just once because my mom yelled at me, telling me that she didn’t want me to be like her. I had to break up with my boyfriend the next day.”

  “Wow, why?”

  “Because she stopped us, and I wasn’t that old yet. I’d been so embarrassed and upset that I disappointed her that I never got serious with a guy again.”

  “If you don’t mind me asking, how old were you?”

  “Fifteen.”

  “Wow, I totally get why she did that. You were young. Well, I haven’t been with anyone in years, about six years.”

  “Um. What? Why?”

  “Because my family never approved with anyone I dated. They were right each time, but it got to the point that their meddling made me not even bother.” I wondered if there was something else, or maybe he was so devoted to his family that he would walk away from me if they said so. Oh well, I wanted to have him, if only for one night.

  “Well, then we better get to it before they tell you to lose me.”

  “It wouldn’t matter what their opinion is. My mind was made up as I watched you smile looking into your camera at the pictures on it.

  Chapter 4

  Gavin

  We caught a cab back to her hotel. There was much to tell her, but I was quite befuddled on how to address it. What would happen if she learned that I wasn’t just a common bloke working in a tea and treat shop? Would she run when she learned that paying for a cab was a pittance to someone of my peerage?

  I opened the window on the cab, hoping the cool air would chill the heat between us, but it failed miserably. We stepped out of the cab and thankfully no one was any the wiser of my identity. We entered the lobby and went straight to the bank of lifts. I did as much as I could to avoid making any eye contact with people. The trip to her room was eventful. A couple was kissing in the lift and they smirked at us before continuing the snogfest. I pulled her to my side, hoping just to make it to the room without running into anyone.

  Her room had to be the last one on the floor and it took forever. Once we got there, I spun her around, pressed her to the door, and ravished her, rightfully so. Moaning, I thrust my hips forward, grinding my length along her center. I pulled away because we had too many layers on. We were both panting and staring at each other. Without taking my eyes from hers, I reached for the edge of her scarf which was tucked under the top of her coat just above her large breasts. I tugged the soft fabric off, letting it fall to the floor. Then, with her neck free, I traced her pulse. Cupping her jaw, I rubbed my thumb along it.

  She reached in between us and undid her coat, letting it fall to the floor. I moaned against her lips, peppering little kisses while I took off my scarf and coat. My hands went back to her body where they belonged. Bugger, I was going to come in my trousers like a randy teen. The feel of her wide hips in my large strong hands spurred the creator in me. I wanted to fill her with my babes as soon as could be. I growled against her pulse.

  “Mine,” I uttered, informing her that this was just the beginning of forever for us. I knew from the second I spotted her there was no going back. The deal made before the close of business. The way her body was so lusciously curved, I couldn’t stop myself from stroking and squeezing every inch. My hand slid under her thin sweater, feeling the soft flesh of her belly. Damn, breathing deep, I ground against her as I lifted off her top and threw it into the pile of clothes. Bloody hell, she was perfectly curved. Her breasts were larger than my hands. I leaned down and suckled her nipple through the soft material of her bra. She moaned, arching her back off the door. Releasing her breast, I lifted her into my arms with her legs wrapped around my waist. Carrying her over to the bed, I sat her down as I did away with her boots. I ran my hands up her trouser covered legs until I reach her mound and backside, giving them a loving massage before unclasping the button and unzippering them. Slowly I pulled them down, revealing her knickers, soaked with her lust. I pressed my lips to her mound, kissing her wetness, but I needed more. I tore them at the seam and tossed them like rubbish. They were hiding me from her heat. I’d never done this before. A woman never tempted me to lower myself.

  “Let me know what you like. I’ve never done this before,” I confessed.

  “Really?” she asked.

  “Yes, now part those thighs for me. Heavens, I bet you taste so sweet,” I murmured against her folds. I parted her lower lips and slid my tongue into her wetness. The beast hidden under the British stiff had emerged and I couldn’t get enough. I gorged myself on her pussy, licking and sucking on her tenderness. Emboldened by the moans and cries that were coming from her, I flicked the little nub at the crux of her body, and she cried out, her thighs clenching around my head. I continued drinking down her flavor until she started to shake from the sensation. She’s ticklish it seemed, and I needed to have more of her. I rose up and undid my trousers. I unleashed my throbbing cock from my y-fronts. I bit my bottom lip and focused on her body, stroking my length.

  Chapter 5

  Holly

  Panting out of control, I lay sprawled out on the edge of the bed with my legs dangling. The orgasmic experience new to me. Hearing that it had been the first time he’d done that, I was twice as turned on. I swear he barely ran his tongue over my clit and I was thrashing about, my pussy aching until I came.

  He stood up and took off his work shirt. His chest was broad and the light sprinkling of hairs on his chest was set perfectly between his strong pecs. My body was alive and all I could think of was how I wanted to come again. Was it possible for a girl to get addicted?

  I could tell that he’d kicked off his shoes, then came his pants. He barely lowered them before pulling out his long, hard cock from his briefs. Holy shit, he was hung. I didn’t think they made Brits like that, but I guess they hid a lot behind that strong jaw and class act. My body was burning with need. And seeing the tip wet with his pre-cum all over it made me lick my lips.

  “Oh no. No returning the favor. I’ve never done that before either and I’m sure you’d make me come with that pretty little pink tongue before you closed your mouth.” I was going to blow him as soon as I could. Knowing that I’d be his first, I had to mark my damn territory.

  He lifted my legs held them in the crook of his elbows, then pressed the tip of his massive cock into my pussy. I felt stretched as he rocked back and forth, working slowly into me. I couldn’t believe this was happening. He wrapped my legs around his hips, then leaned forward, pushing through my barrier. I felt the tear, but it was over before it started. The sting was strong and it stopped both of us in our tracks.

  “I’m sorry, my dear.” The remorse in his eyes bothered me.

  “I’m fine. Keep going. I feel so full, yet I want more.” I clapped my hands to his shoulders, my nails grazing his back. He started to move again, rocking back and forth into me. His cock slid in and slowly out as I got used to it. Then, as our passion rose, he worked me harder, pumping his hips until he was completely inside me and pulling back.

  “I’m going to fuck you until the sun comes up. We’ll order room service because I’m not going to let you get dressed the rest of the night.” I clenched around his cock; my orgasm building fast. He took my mouth for a fast, rough kiss before moving down to my breasts, marking them with his teeth. His hand reached between us and he pinched my clit. My core pulsed as I came. I could feel his body join me and we were both a sweaty mess. He pulled out of me which caused a little pain. “Sorry.” He bent down and kissed me before taking off his clothes completely and marching his naked ass to the bathroom. And what an ass that was.

  He came back a moment later with a washcloth that was warm and placed it on my sore goodies. It felt wonderful, then he wiped me off and tossed it onto t
he floor. He lifted me to the middle of the bed where he cradled me in his arms. All thoughts of dinner forgotten as we passed out.

  We woke up only to fondle each other and make love again. I was in pure bliss.

  Chapter 6

  Gavin

  We lay there in a heaping pile of clothes. I had to go. I had an important meeting in an hour. I didn’t want to wake her because I didn’t have time to tell her the truth, but I couldn’t just leave. I took the stationery and wrote a quick note.

  I was out the door, barely dressed, and thankfully Holmes was outside waiting for me.

  “Sir, you know that the press is already aware of your rendezvous with that young lady.”

  “Holmes, Holly is her name and she’s to be my wife.”

  “Truly, sir?” he asked, shaking his head. “I suppose it would make sense since you’ve flouted all your rules.”

  “I have. How bad is the press? I haven’t told her who I am. She believes me to be a coffee shop employee.”

  “Oh, sir, that is a terrible way to start off a relationship, especially of this nature.”

  “I know very well it’s not, but I got a bit carried away and was afraid she’d run if I told her that I have a personal driver and the like. Oh yes, the whole lord thing as well.”

  “I’m not of the highest order, but that won’t change my status in her eyes. Heavens, I haven’t made her aware that I own my own company.” I thrust my fingers through my hair, frustrated with myself for being such a twat.

  “Well, prepare yourself. I’ll wait in the car to take you to your meeting.” We were in front of my flat in Mayfair and I hurried up the steps, agitated and annoyed with myself.

  I showered quickly and dressed in short order. I grabbed my documents and stuffed them into my case and exited before the press could find me for questions.

  Chapter 7

  Holly

  I woke up feeling thirsty and stiff. Needing to stretch and come to grips with giving him everything and then some without a condom. I couldn’t believe my behavior. I’ve been on birth control since my mother caught me with my boyfriend, but there were still STDs to consider.