Chapter 11: Chapter 10

LILLIAN

Despite the playful banter, Lillian genuinely enjoyed her time with Noah. She left his place late in the afternoon, clutching her ruined book to her chest. She made sure to give him a piece of her mind about it before she left, and he offered to pay for a replacement.

Of course, she declined.

She planned to replace it first thing in the morning, hoping the librarian would be understanding—accidents happen, after all. A brand-new book might soften the blow. Still, she couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sadness.

But what’s done is done. She decided to focus on the positives, and there were plenty of those. She had the chance to fully explore the villa, and she had good company.

Noah, her former boss, seemed less uptight than before, and she enjoyed their conversations. Truth be told, she had always enjoyed their exchanges, even when they were laced with sarcasm and he was outright rude.

She held back from admitting that she had been feeling a bit bored in her hometown. As much as she enjoyed his company, she wasn’t sure if she should see him again. If she admitted her boredom, he might use it as an excuse to meet up again.

Maybe it was all in her head, but he seemed a little too eager to see her. Who was she kidding? The man was clearly interested in her. How long could she resist his flirtations?

It had only been a day, but she hadn’t had sex in a while, and she was starting to feel a bit needy. If she were in the city, a one-night stand would be an option—with the necessary precautions, of course.

It wasn’t something she particularly enjoyed, but it had happened once or twice. If she were up for it, it could have happened more often. But in her hometown, it wasn’t as simple.

She knew almost everyone, and a one-night stand would be awkward. Her last experience at the local bar had put her off trying again for a while. She decided to avoid Noah for the rest of her stay and went to bed with that thought in mind.

But the next morning, a surprise was waiting for her—or rather, the surprise woke her up by ringing her doorbell at the crack of dawn. She shuffled downstairs and opened the door without wondering who it could be. Most of her brain was still asleep, and the rest was eager to follow.

“Good morning.” Noah smirked, seemingly unfazed by her sleepy appearance and bed hair. “I thought you were an early bird.”

“It’s barely seven o’clock,” she replied flatly.

She had checked her phone when she was so rudely awakened. Actually, it was because of the abrupt wake-up call that she had checked.

“I know,” he said, clearly amused by her reaction.

“What the hell are you doing here?” she snapped, still blocking the entrance.

“I got up early and I was bored…”

“So, you decided to come and bother me?” she asked, incredulous.

“Yes. But I brought us breakfast,” he replied, holding up a bag for her to see.

“Where’s my coffee then?” she asked, crossing her arms over her chest and raising an eyebrow.

He had achieved his goal. She was fully awake now, and not too happy about it.

“Do you drink coffee?” he asked, surprised.

“Since I had to deal with Tamara, yes, I do,” she retorted, stepping aside to let him in.

She led the way to the kitchen, glancing over her shoulder to make sure he was following.

“I quit.” He shrugged, setting the bag on the table.

“You quit?” she laughed. “You used to have at least three cups before noon. I’m surprised your stomach didn’t have a hole in it from all the caffeine you consumed on an empty stomach.”

“Me too. But I only drank it for work. I never really liked the taste. I just needed the energy—or the idea of it.”

“You didn’t like the taste, but you didn’t add sugar or milk?”

“I just said I needed the energy. Adding milk or sugar wouldn’t do it.”

“I see… So, what are you having?”

“Tea, fruit juices… sometimes nothing at all but water. I don’t really care.”

“Noah, I meant right now,” she said, rolling her eyes.

“Whatever’s in your fridge works for me.”

“Ice cubes,” she responded, a sweet tone in her voice.

“I find it hard to believe you don’t have at least water,” he retorted.

“Ice cubes are water,” she shot back.

He chuckled, shaking his head. “You’re not the nurturing type, are you?”

“No, especially not when I didn’t invite someone into my home.”

“But I was considerate enough to bring breakfast. You could be a bit more welcoming.”

“You interrupted a fantastic dream of mine.”

“Did I?”

“Yes. In it, you left town and I wouldn’t have to see you again for another three years.”

“I never thought I’d say this, but your wicked humor is amusing. However, I’m starting to get genuinely thirsty.”

“Milk,” she said, her voice flat.

“Sounds good.” He shrugged. “I brought croissants, chocolate muffins, and lemon pie. They should pair well with milk.”

Hearing him list the items he’d brought softened her a bit. She was certain he’d chosen randomly, but lemon pie? It was her absolute favorite, and only one baker made it just right—and it wasn’t her mom.

“From the bakery around the corner?” she asked, her previous demeanor forgotten.

“Yes. It was the only one open.”

“It’s the best,” she said, smiling. “Everything there is delicious. It’s been that way since I was a kid. I think I’ve tried everything.”

“How do you know they still have the same menu?”

“They have the lemon pie. That’s all I need.”

They set the table and ate breakfast together. She even drank some milk before making a face and starting the coffee machine. The whole situation felt surreal, and Lillian mentioned it once she’d had enough coffee.

Unlike him, she enjoyed the taste; that’s why she drank it black—not for the energy boost.

“Yeah,” he chuckled. “Who would’ve thought we’d be sitting here like friends, having breakfast and chatting.”

“You forgot to mention your constant attempts to flirt with me,” she reminded him.

“You keep bringing that up. If I didn’t know any better, I’d think you enjoy it when I do.”

She rolled her eyes at him and stood up from the table.

“Now that we’ve had breakfast, you can leave,” she said, her voice flat. “We’ve spent enough time together for two days. We need a break.”

“Am I really bothering you?” he asked, mimicking her as she began to clear the table.

“It’s not that you’re bothering me,” she sighed. “But this is too complicated, and we’re not even sleeping together.”

“Yet,” he smirked. “Though I think that would simplify things.”

“How so?”

“I’m not your boss anymore, and you’re not some little freak.”

“We’ve already discussed this,” she huffed, annoyed. “I’m tired of repeating that our relationship has changed.”

“That’s true,” he retorted. “What I’m trying to say is that I’m attracted to you, and we could have a great summer fling.”

“Yeah, like you’re capable of more,” she scoffed.

“Exactly,” he said, grinning at her. “You’re a smart woman.”

“Maybe that’s why I should avoid you.”

He took a step closer. “If we both play by the same rules, everything will be fine,” he assured her. “It doesn’t have to be anything more because neither of us needs it. I’ll go back to traveling the world, and you’ll go back to your life. It might be another three years before we see each other again.”

“But still…”

“Still what? It’ll last longer than a one-night stand, but much less than a proper relationship. We’re not cheating on anyone. Not that it’s stopped me before, but it does simplify things. You know how I am, and I think you’re smart enough not to make this more than it is.”

Lillian gazed up at him, a wild idea beginning to take root in her mind. Maybe he was onto something. She wasn’t looking for anything more than a summer fling herself, just as he’d suggested.

He was undeniably handsome, and something in her gut told her he’d be a satisfying lover. The best part was they could part ways once her vacation ended. No hurt feelings, no strings attached, just a summer of giving each other their best before saying goodbye.

She’d never embarked on a relationship with a pre-set expiration date, devoid of any secret hopes for more. But maybe, just maybe, that was the kind of thrill she needed this summer. So, why not?

“What do you think?” he asked.

With a mischievous grin, she tugged him closer by his backside, her hands slipping into his pockets and finding them empty. “You didn’t come prepared,” she noted, a hint of disappointment in her voice.

He chuckled at her tone, which she could hear in her own voice. He leaned in, nipping at her lower lip playfully, and she seized the moment to deepen it into a kiss—a passionate, intoxicating kiss.

She didn’t feel awkward for making the first move. She was never one to shy away from showing interest unless the feeling wasn’t mutual, which clearly wasn’t the case here.

“Front left pocket,” he whispered against her lips.

Without hesitation, she slipped her hand into his pocket, pulling out the foil-wrapped condom as their kiss continued. His arms were already wrapped around her waist.

“Do we need a bed?” he asked, pressing his arousal against her.

In lieu of a response, she began unbuttoning his jeans. He got the message and quickly pulled her T-shirt over her head.

“No bra, Miss Astaire?” he teased.

“I was sleeping, Mr. Ryder, remember?”

“Right. Less work for me then.”

Once their clothes were discarded, they explored each other’s bodies with fervor, touching, squeezing, and tasting every inch of skin within reach. Eventually, Noah lifted her by the small of her back, moving their activities to the kitchen table—far more comfortable than the sink.

Not that she was opposed to trying it out for a laugh, but right now, she was more interested in the act itself rather than the logistics of their location.

He rolled on the condom and entered her in one smooth motion. No unnecessary chatter, just as it should be. She gasped at the sudden intrusion, but her arousal made it bearable, and he didn’t slow down until she climaxed.

It was exactly what she needed, exactly how she needed it. What a relief to not have to give specific instructions. What a relief to be with someone who just knew what to do. It had been a while since Lillian had encountered someone like that.

It was perfect. Fast, deep, and oddly satisfying, without emotions getting in the way. She cried out in pleasure, but not his name. There was no emotional connection just because they climaxed together. She simply felt grateful for the experience, and that was more than enough.

“That was damn good,” he chuckled into her neck once they finished.

“It was,” she murmured, pleased that he echoed her thoughts. “But now we need to disinfect the table.”

He laughed, and she joined him, even though she was serious. They had a mess to clean up. But even as he softened inside her, neither of them moved. They simply basked in the afterglow a little longer.

Eventually, Lillian was the first to pull away. “I’m going to get the disinfectant,” she announced.

“You were serious?”

“Absolutely. My bare ass was on that table just now. You can’t expect me to eat off it anytime soon.”

He shook his head as she went to fetch what she needed. She didn’t bother getting dressed; she’d need a shower anyway. She wouldn’t mind a second round, but she wouldn’t be the one to suggest it. Her naked body should be enough of a hint, and she could indulge just for… No, not just for today. They’d agreed on a summer fling, and she shouldn’t overthink it.

“Can we go upstairs now?” he asked as she tossed the used wipes.

“Don’t tell me you need to lie down,” she teased, turning to find him already close behind her.

He reclined a bit, his gaze dropping to her. He hadn’t bothered to dress again, which was just fine by her. She was enjoying the view.

“Are you suggesting I’m old?” His eyes narrowed in her direction.

“Well, you’re definitely older than me,” she replied with a shrug.

“Not by much.”

“Are you hiding your age?” She laughed lightly.

“No. I’m less than ten years older than you.”

“Nine, to be exact,” she retorted with a smirk.

“Still less than ten,” he maintained, his arm snaking around her waist.

“Does that mean you’re up for another round?”

“Yes. The recovery time might be a bit longer, but I can handle it,” he winked, lifting her into his arms.

She let out a surprised squeak, her legs instinctively wrapping around his waist.

“What are you doing?” she asked, her tone a mix of amusement and surprise.

“I’m taking us to your bedroom.”

“You don’t even know where that is.”

“You’ll guide me to the right door,” he replied, beginning to ascend the stairs.

“Easy there, cowboy,” she laughed. “It’s the only one that’s open.”

As she noticed his breathing becoming slightly labored, she couldn’t resist teasing him about his age again. In response, he playfully tossed her onto the bed. Lillian squealed, then laughed as he collapsed on top of her.

“I don’t see any pockets for you to pull a condom out of,” she remarked as he began to kiss her neck.

“Buzzkill,” he grumbled, rolling off her.

“Well, I don’t plan on becoming a mom from a summer fling—especially not with you.”

“I should be insulted by that,” he said, raising an eyebrow.

“Do you think you’d make a good dad?”

“Far from it,” he scoffed. “I’m not exactly a fan of kids.”

“Then you’d better find a condom, because I’m not exactly mother material either.”

He propped himself up on his elbow, looking at her with a hint of disappointment.

“I don’t have another one with me,” he admitted. “Do you?”

“Nope. I didn’t bring any.”

“You didn’t plan on having sex?” he asked, sounding surprised.

“No, and I assumed that if it happened, the guy would be prepared, regardless of his age.”

“If I’d brought a whole pack, you’d think I was planning to assault you,” he retorted.

“Or I might think you’re a little too into me,” she countered with a smirk.

“Damn, there’s no winning with you women,” he groaned.

“Took you long enough to figure that out.”

“You said you wouldn’t sleep with me,” he reminded her.

“Should I not have?”

“I wouldn’t have stopped until you did,” he confessed, and she believed him.

“So, are you stopping now?” she challenged him.

“No way.”

“We’re out of protection.”

“I have more at my place.”

“Should we go there?” she asked, a playful smirk on her face.

“Are you up for it?”

“Aren’t you?”

“Absolutely,” he chuckled, springing up from the bed.

She quickly followed suit.