"Life As It Is Now"

[littleprincessj]

Alright, here’s my new story, I’m excited about this one, I hope you guys like it, I have a lot of it written already, but I have to work on editing etc...because I have to make it message board appropriate. :) So as I get into the more graphic chapters I'll take longer to update because I have to finagle it and edit it. I hope you guys like!

Summary- Erica Hall is a young, mom struggling to make her way through college while raising her daughter, Emma-Lynn. Things seem stable in her life until she gets pregnant and her boyfriend leaves her to raise her kids on her own, who knew when she moved and began her new life, Caden Bennett, attorney at law would be her neighbor. What happens when these two become neighbors and friends, will spark fly? Or will a friendship be enough for the two? Please R&R!

Prologue- How It Began

“Positive…†� 21 year old Erica Hall thought to herself as she stared down at the dipstick in her hand. “Another pregnancy…Mitchell is going to kill me…� Tears threatened the petite girls’ eyes. She looked into the mirror, her hazel eyes staring back at her, blonde wisps of her hair plastered to her cheeks as the tears came down full force. She sank to the floor, leaning against the sink cabinet.
“What am I going to do…?� She sobbed, head in her hands until she heard him.
“Erica…!†� She gasped, stood to her feet, tried to gain composure and headed down the stairs but not before slipping the little stick in the drawer.
“Well…itâ€⠄¢s now…or never…â€Â� She said to herself and made her way downstairs.

[littleprincessj]

Chapter One-Moving On

“Mommy where are we going…?� The glowing toddler asked gazing out the window as she sat snug in the backseat of her mom’s small Honda Civic. Erica looked into her rearview mirror, seeing the small clone of herself as her legs bobbled up and down banging against the seat. ‘She’s so innocent…’ Erica thought to herself, ‘She doesn’t deserve to be in the middle of all of this…’
“We’re going to live in a new home, just like mommy promised...�
“How come…?� The vibrant little girl looked up at her mom, her blue eyes piercing into her mom’s.
“Because…well, you and mommy are going to be living by ourselves now…without daddy.� She stopped as the light turned red. “Remember pumpkin, just like mommy talked about…� Erica turned her head and looked at her daughter.
“Will daddy comed see us…?�
“I don’t think so Emma…� Her mother sighed and accelerated as the light changed green.
“Does he no loved me nos more…?� Emma-Lynn asked obviously confused by what was happening. ‘She’s only 4…she can’t understand this…’ Erica sighed and turned left onto ‘Glenwood Road’. She drove down four houses before pulling right into a driveway. She turned the ignition off and turned around fully trying to get a better glimpse of her daughter.
“Emma…daddy loves you very much, he’s just having a hard time with things right now, and he and mommy aren’t getting along very well at the moment…we’ll be okay, I promise…� She got out of the car, opened the back door and pulled her little girl into her arms for a hug. “I love you so much pumpkin, you just remember that…� She kissed her head and the little girl clung tightly to her mother.
“I wove you too mommy…� The little girl pulled away and kissed her mother’s nose. Erica laughed and tickled her daughter gaining giggles from the little girl. The two were interrupted when Erica sensed they weren’t alone. She looked up to see the most handsome man she’d ever laid eyes on. He was tall, she guessed about 6’3� and had the bluest eyes she’d seen, they etched right through her. Quickly, she stood and Emma kept her arms latched around her mother’s neck.
“Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you or alarm you…� He spoke, putting his hands up in the air in front of him. Erica laughed slightly and shook her head.
“No, its okay…I’m sorry, I just didn’t hear you at first.� He put his hands down and stuck his right hand out to her.
“Caden Bennett…I live in that house there…â€Â� Erica held on tightly to Emma and took her right hand accepting his. She turned to the direction he was referring to and saw the house he lived in, it definitely looked out of place compared to many of the houses surrounding. It was huge, a beautiful white house with a three car garage attached to the side. In the driveway, a silver Mercedes and black Cadillac Escalade were parked, inside the open garage door she saw a black Lexus. ‘Okay…wow†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ She thought in her head and turned back to Caden. It wasn’t till she saw the look on his face that she realized he’d said something and was waiting for her response.
“Sorry…what did you say?�
“Just wondering if a gorgeous woman such as you had a name…?� She blushed and looked at her feet then back up at him.
“Erica…Hall, Erica Hall…� She stammered.
“Erica Hall…beautiful name for a beautiful girl.�
“Thanks…†� She blushed and smiled. He reached over and rubbed the little girls shoulder, she burrowed her head into the crook of her mom’s neck.
“And who might this precious little girl be?� Erica pulled away and looked at Emma.
“It’s okay sweetie…why don’t you tell him your name…� Emma grew shy and resumed her place in the crook of Erica’s neck. Erica smiled apologetically to Caden.
“She gets shy…her name is Emma-Lynn…�
“That’s a beautiful name…�
“I though so too…� Erica smiled up at him and he smiled back. ‘Those eyes…are gorgeous.’ Erica thought as she kept staring.
“So…where did you move from…?�
“Portland…†�
“Oh that’s cool, so not a very long ways at all…�
“No, just about 20 minutes or so from here…�
“I’ve been down there a couple times, what brings you down here? Did your husband get a job position or something like that?� Caden asked trying to learn more about this woman who had struck his attention.
“Oh, no, no…I’m not married…�
“Boyfriend…?â₠¬Â�
“That would be a negative…I’m single…�
“Impossible…whatâà ¢â€šÂ¬Ã¢â€žÂ¢s a woman such as you doing without someone special?â€ÂÂ�
“Long story…too much drama…� Caden let a small laugh.
“Well I guess I’ll just have to find the time to sit and listen one of these days…� Erica gave him her million dollar smile and Emma began to squirm.
“Listen, the movers brought over our furniture the other day, she’s pretty wiped out so I think I’m going to settle her for a nap and then unpack my stuff here…� She motioned to the boxes stuffed inside the car.
“Why don’t you put her down and I’ll help you with these boxes?�
“Oh, I couldn’t impose…�
“No, no, not at all…� Caden walked over to her car and already began taking boxes out.
“Thank you…really, I appreciate it…� Erica smiled at him and then walked into the new house. It wasn’t a large house, certainly nothing like Caden’s home. It had two floors. Upstairs there were three bedrooms and a bathroom; downstairs there was a bedroom, which was the master bedroom, a fairly large family/living room, a bathroom, some closets, a kitchen and open area dining room joining the kitchen. In the dining room was a sliding gl[arse] door bringing you outside to a deck that wrapped around the back part of the house. The backyard was a good sized yard. To the left Erica’s neighbors had put their own fence up, she could just barely see above it to see the dark gray shingles coating the roof, there was a jungle gym and swing set in back and to the left, you could see right into Caden’s backyard. There was no fence…no nothing, just his open spacious backyard out in the open. It was very quiet surroundings and very beautiful. Erica carried her daughter up the stairs and into the first bedroom on the left. She opened the freshly painted white door and inside was a beautifully pink painted bedroom, unfortunately Erica didn’t have the money to buy her daughter the best bedroom set in the world, she managed with what she could. There was a small twin sized mattress laying on the floor, with no headboard or bed frame for it, the mattress was covered with pink blankets and a large ‘Winnie the Pooh’ comforter. There was a closet built into the room and a small oak wood dresser on the wall across from where the bed was. Next to the dresser was a plastic “Fisher Price� toy box already filled and flowing with toys…and that was it, that was all she could manage for her baby girl. She gently laid her in her bed and covered her up with her blankets not forgetting to cuddle her prized teddy bear under the covers with her. She gave Emma a kiss on the head and quietly got up, leaving the door open just a crack she made her way downstairs.
“Hey…I didn’t know where you wanted these boxes…� Caden said as he saw Erica making her way down the stairs.
“It’s fine…right here in the middle is good for now. I don’t even know what’s in half these boxes.� The two laughed. Almost two hours later, all the boxes were scattered about in the front hall and living room. Erica made her way into the kitchen with Caden not far behind. She unpacked a box full of gl[arse]es and ran the tap pouring herself and Caden a gl[arse].
“You know, I really appreciate all your help…a guy like you should be spending your weekend with your wife and kids…not helping some stranger lift all this stuff…�
“First of all…a guy like me…?â€ÂÂ� He chuckled and took a gulp of his water. “Second…Iâ€à ¢â€žÂ¢m not married, and I have no kids…â€ÂÂ� Erica looked up at him shocked. “What…?†� Caden asked almost laughing.
“Nothing…I just figured a man as handsome as yourself would be married with children…�
“You [arse]ume too much…� He teased. “No, honestly, I tried the marriage thing…my high school sweetheart…�
“And I take it that didn’t work out…?� Erica asked trying to learn more without being too demanding.
“No…ended up pregnant…I was thrilled, I wanted a child but 9 months later when our son…well, her son was born and looked nothing like me, I just got curious…when she came to me a 3 months later and told me about an affair with a buddy from school…well, I put it together and there it was.� He said almost bitter.
“I’m really sorry…I had no right bringing it up…� She poured the water in her gl[arse] down the drain and leaned against the counter.
“No, it’s okay…I got over it, she wanted out of the marriage, said I made her feel ‘tied down’ and last I heard she’s living with the guy raising their two children together now…so it just wasn’t meant…�
“How long ago was that…?�
“The marriage? We got married 2 years after high school, so that would have been about…� He closed his eyes thinking. “17 years ago…we divorced 2 years after that, while I was in law school, so that would be 15 years ago…�
“Oh my god…17 years ago!� Erica tried holding back the surprised tone in her voice. When she realized how it sounded she quickly put a hand over her mouth. “I’m sorry; I didn’t mean it the way it sounded…� Caden however began laughing.
“It’s okay…I’m old…� He saw the look on her face and answered her question before she could ask. “37…as of last week…�
“Oh…well, happy belated birthday…�
“Why thank you…what about you…?�
“Oh, no, my birthday wasn’t last week…� He laughed and gave her a flirtatious shove.
“No silly…how old are you?� She looked down embarr[arse]ed at her answer.
“I’m 21…�
“Wow…� Was all Caden said. Erica nodded and they stood in silence for a while. “So…what brings you to Deep River…?� He asked breaking the silence.
“Long story…� Caden turned and looked around him, eyeing the two bar stools in the corner he pulled them up to the island and sat down patting the seat next to him.
“I’ve got plenty of time…� Erica sighed seeing she wasn’t going to slide her way out of this and took her seat next to him.
“I got pregnant with Emma-Lynn when I was 17, my boyfriend, his name is Mitchell…I should say my ex-boyfriend. We started dating when I was 16, he was 18. Things were great, I really thought he loved me…we had sex, the first time and I got pregnant. I ended up taking senior year off, I got pregnant the night of his senior prom so at least I was able to hide it the remainder of the year…physically anyways. Mitch ended up getting a job part time as a bus boy, he went to a community college, his parent’s watched Emma-Lynn when I was at school and he was working, his parents have his back through everything. Well, I managed to graduate and took a year off before enrolling myself into college as well that was when I was 20; I’m in my second year now.� She looked up at the man she was talking to, it was so easy to just tell him her story, a practically complete stranger but it was so easy. “I’ve been sick lately…two weeks ago, I found out I was pregnant…again, well to make this story short, Mitch was not happy, and kicked me out…I found this little house, it’s all I can manage to afford, and I’m barely able to do that at the moment. I’m working two jobs, and trying to manage through school still but I don’t know how long I’ll be able to do that. I just want the best for Emma-Lynn, that’s all I care about, her father never cared enough about her, she was just something that took time away from his partying and getting laid…he spent the last year cheating on me, and I’m sure it’s not the first…I gave everything up for my daughter, I love her more than anything in this world, she’s so innocent. It’s not her fault her dad’s a prick who could care less about her and her well being…I hate him so much for it, but it’s just as much my fault as his…I stayed with him for this long…put her through this…� She was crying hysterically by now and Caden had his arms wrapped tightly around her, she buried her face in his chest and he just rubbed her back as she cried. For twenty minutes she sobbed and finally calmed down. She pulled away and wiped her eyes on her sleeve embarr[arse]ed.
“I’m sorry…how foolish of me…� Caden wiped the remaining tears falling.
“No…itâ€â†žÂ¢s okay, listen, I want to be a friend…you can’t do this all alone, even if venting is all you need to help you, I want to help…â€ÂÂ� Erica smiled.
“Thanks really but you don’t want to get involved with me….in ANY way…my life is a mess…�
“So let me help…I’m a criminal defense attorney…I’ve seen messed up lives plenty of times…� He tried cracking a joke and it worked because Erica laughed. He smiled and pulled her in for a friendly hug and then stood up.
“Mommy…†� Erica heard the calls from her daughter and stood; glancing at the clock Caden took in the time and decided it was time to head to his own home.
“Well listen, sounds like the little one needs you, I should probably get going, I have a dinner meeting with another attorney tonight…I’m glad to have a neighbor instead of this vacant house now…� Erica smiled.
“Thank you so much for everything, I don’t want to keep you…I really appreciate everything you’ve done, and I am so sorry for making a fool of myself and breaking down like that…�
“Not a problem…what are friends for?â€Â� Erica smiled. ‘Yeah…friendsâ₠¬Â¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ She liked that thought. “Make sure you get some food…that baby needs it…â€Â� He said pointing to her flat stomach, “not to mention that baby upstairs as well.â€Â� He smiled and gave her one more hug. “There’s a small grocery store if you go down the street, take a left, and take a right at the first stop light, you can’t miss it, it’s about a mile down that road…just a small quiet town grocery store, pick something up, I’m sure you don’t have much in the house…â€Â� Erica laughed and nodded walking him to the front door.
“Well thank you again…really…â₠¬Â�
“You’re very welcome…if you need anything…well you know where to get me…� He said and they both laughed at his corny joke.
“Have a good night…�
“You too Erica…â€ÂÂ� She watched him walk next door and then closed the front door; she took a deep breath, leaned against the door and closed her eyes, taking in everything that’d happened tonight. ‘He is so gorgeous…and a lawyer? My god…why does he have to be so…well…old?â₠¬Ã¢â€žÂ¢ Erica asked herself.
“Mommy…!†� She heard Emma’s cries and was brought back to reality.
“Coming pumpkin…� She hollered back and made her way up to her daughter’s room, thoughts of a certain neighbor still clear in her mind.

Well there’s chapter 1. I hope you guys enjoyed it!

[StargateGirl]

I've only read the summary, but I really like it. :) I'll have to read the rest of it when I stop feeling dizzy. :)

[littleprincessj]

Chapter Two- Late Night Out

“I’m done for the night…� Erica said taking her apron off and throwing it on the bar.
“Alright, I’ll see you tomorrow night.� The tall Italian man said to her from where he stood perched behind the bar.
“Goodnight…â₠¬Ã‚Â� She walked out of Reno’s Men’s Club, the gentlemen’s club she waitresses at from six in the evening till closing time, two in the morning. She worked Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and on alternating Sundays. She didn’t particularly like working there, she hated the skimpy, tight outfits they call uniforms, she hated being around drunk men all night and being hit on but she knew she needed the job and the pay is amazing on the night shift. Working the night shift also gives her the opportunity to see Emma more; while she was at work she had a nanny watching Emma. It cost her a lot, but she knew Mitchell wouldn’t help; hell, she hadn’t heard from him since he kicked her out. She sighed, walked to her car and absentmindedly rest her hand over her stomach thinking about the growing fetus. She smiled and pulled out of the parking lot heading for her home. When she walked into her semi filled living room, she saw Linda, Emma’s nanny sleeping soundly on the couch. She was finally getting everything around the house settled. She made her way up to her bedroom and changed into her comfortable pink pajamas. After checking on Emma, fast asleep in her bed, she made her way downstairs and gently shook Linda awake.
“Linda…you can head home now…� She said quietly.
“Oh…youâ€â⠀žÂ¢re home already?â€ÂÂ� She asked still asleep.
“Yeah, it’s almost three…thanks for watching Emma for me.�
“No problem dear, that’s my job.� Linda, now more awake stood and gathered her things. “She’s always an angel when I watch her.� Linda smiled warmly. Erica walked with her to the front door.
“I’ll see you again on Wednesday…� Erica spoke as Linda made her way to the car.
“Of course…� Erica smiled gratefully and closed the door. She sighed and leaned against the door. Quietly she made her way back up to her bedroom and gathered the raunchy, skimpy worked uniforms that needed washing. Placing them in the basket along with some underwear and other clothes she made her way back down the stairs, laundry at 3 a.m. she laughed to herself. Just as she was making her way through the kitchen to the laundry area of the house there was a knock that startled her. ‘Its 3 a.m., who in the world could that, be?’ She thought to herself and cautiously made her way to the door. Peaking through the hole she saw her gorgeous neighbor, Caden standing there clad in his blue plaid pajamas. She opened the door still unsure what he could want.
“Caden…†� She said surprised.
“Hey, I just saw a lot of movement going on here, and cars going in and out of the driveway, thought it was a weird hour of the night for that, I wanted to make sure everything was alright.� He said taking notice of the contents in her laundry basket.
“Oh yeah…perfect, I just got in from work.� He raised an eyebrow.
“Work…?†�
“Yeah…you see…night shi…shift, it pays more and…�
“Wow, what kind of clothes are those?� He interrupted her bringing attention to her work uniforms. ‘Great…just [freak'n]ing great.’ Erica thought in her head. ‘Now he’s going to know how low I have to stoop to afford anything.’
“Its…well it’s…my work uniform.� She said, quieting the ending of her sentence.
“Work…? What kind of work do you do Miss Hall?� He asked now curious.
“Look, it’s three in the morning, I’m tired, I’ve been around [freaky] perverted men all night, I need sleep and I need to wash these damn uniform so if you don’t mind, please go.� She said in an outburst, unsure where it came from.
“Whoa, okay…I just wanted to make sure you’re okay…you can never be sure with the people out there these days…� He took a step back.
“Look, I’m sorry…I just, I’m tired.� She sighed and leaned against the door frame.
“I understand…how about I come back tomorrow? I’ve got work, maybe I could take you to lunch, I mean you are eating for two now, we have to make sure you’re staying healthy and eating.� Erica smiled a little at his thoughtfulness.
“Thank you…that’d be very nice. I have cl[arse]es at 9; I should be out by 12:30.�
“I could pick you up at the school?� He asked wondering if it was alright with her.
“That’d be very nice, thank you Mr. Bennett.� She smiled and he smiled back.
“Why you’re quite welcome Ms. Hall…� She laughed quietly not wanting to wake Emma and after saying goodnight proceeded to wash her clothes. ‘He’s going to bring it up again Erica…just admit what you do, just tell him.’ She said to herself, turned off the light in the laundry room and headed up to her own bed, she needed sleep…bad.

[littleprincessj]

Chapter Three-Truth Revealed

“Be ready for a group discussion next time we meet.� The professor announced watching the students file out of the lecture hall. Erica made her way down the stairs and pushed her way through the main doors. Immediately, she saw the black Lexus belonging to her neighbor. She smiled and pranced over towards his car. She threw her bag in the backseat and quickly got in front.
“Hey…� He beamed at her before pulling out and onto the road.
“Hey, thanks for taking me to lunch…� He shook his head, dismissing her thanks.
“Not a problem at all. Where should we go?� He asked and she shrugged her shoulders.
“Surprise me…� He laughed.
“If you say so…� They enjoyed a ride of comfortable silence and Erica couldn’t believe the place he pulled up to; Pico ley’s; they were known for their rather high priced meals.
“Caden, you cannot take me here, its way too expensive.� She said looking right at him.
“Wanna make a bet?� He asked and got out opening her door for her. “Watch me…� He gave her a smug looking smile and led her inside. They were seated in a private corner even though there were not many people in there at that hour of day.
“So, what are you going to have?� He asked watching her look over the menu.
“Hmm…I think I am just going to have the chicken Caesar salad and…a side of onion rings.� She said glancing at him and seeing the look he was giving. “What…?†� She laughed.
“Chicken Caesar AND onion rings? What a combo…� He teased.
“Hey, don’t tease me; tease this one who’s making me crave the two.� She placed her hand over her stomach. He shook his head and laughed. After the waiter took their orders they kept up with small talk.
“Where’s Emma?� He asked.
“I called her nanny and asked her to stop by, usually I bring her with me the days I have cl[arse] because there’s a daycare facility there but since we were going to lunch I had Linda come over.�
“Oh…how many days a week does Linda stay with her?�
“Well, Mondays she’s there from seven in the morning till usually three in the morning because I work two jobs; Tuesdays she goes to the daycare facility then we have the day together, Wednesday she doesn’t come by till at least five; I’m with Emma all day on Wednesdays. Thursday she’s there from seven till five in the afternoon, Fridays are pretty much the same as Monday’s schedule which also means I get about zero amount of sleep. Saturday I bring Emma with me because I have morning cl[arse]es, then I am working from six till two in the morning and every other Sunday I work from six till two.� She looked up finally finishing reading her entire schedule off to him.
“Wow…� Caden said and she nodded her head.
“I know, and tomorrow I’m lucky; it’s her first day of kindergarten so at least I won’t miss that.� Caden nodded.
“That’s great…kindergarten.�
“Yeah…�
“So, now that I’ve got your schedule down pat, what are these jobs that cause you to work such crazy hours?� ‘Oh no, not this question…’ She thought. Just as she was going to say something their food arrived and it was silence for a while until Caden spoke again.
“I’m waiting…� She looked at him and put her fork down. Taking a deep breath, she went for it.
“Well, Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, I work as a receptionist at the front desk at a fitness center in town.�
“And your other job…?� She turned deep red and played with the food on her plate.
“I work at Reno’s.� She mumbled.
“Excuse me…?� He asked not hearing her.
“Reno’s†¦the gentlemen’s club. I am a waitress there okay…?â€� She said obviously embarr[arse]ed.
“Oh…� Was all Caden said and she just nodded. They finished their meals in silence and when the bill came Caden paid. They walked out and when they got in the car she broke the silence.
“It pays good okay…? I need the money, for Emma and now this baby; Mitchell isn’t going to help, and it’s not like I’m stripping, I’m not a [nice person]; I just wait the tables.� She spoke. ‘Why should I even care what he thinks, I barely know this guy.’ Erica thought and looked out the window. She glanced over his way though when she felt a soft, warm, comforting hand in hers.
“I don’t judge anybody without getting to know them…and I know you…� He gave her a smile and she smiled back. He pulled into a parking lot that wasn’t familiar looking for Erica and parked in the back where it was more secluded and away from people. He turned the car off and turned to her.
“You’re doing whatever you can for your children, I understand that. I don’t judge.� He squeezed her hand and took a big risk…a huge risk. He leaned over and kissed her.

[Raevengeance]

great story, Jess

[littleprincessj]

Thanks Rae :), I have NO clue where I'm going with it.

[littleprincessj]

Okay, its a little after 930 at night and I've finally put some final touches on this chapter, I've had a lot on my mind so I started writing away with this story and kept going. Before I go to bed, I wanted to post it.


Thanks for EVERYONE for the reviews. I apologize if I’ve missed you! Please keep sending the reviews guys, I love hearing from you all!

This is the chapter that makes this story NC-17 so please read at your own wish, I'm just warning you this chapter deals with detailed sexual references.

Chapter Four-Lustful Mistakes

Caden pulled away and Erica immediately turned her head afraid to come face to face with him…afraid to meet his eyes, the eyes that she felt blazing into her back, piercing her soul; those gorgeous, baby blue eyes. It was silent a moment more and then he cleared his throat.

“Um…sorry, sorry about that.� Erica shook her head not knowing what to say to him.

“Don’t worry about it, its okay.� Her voice was soft, almost silent. Caden started up the car again and pulled out of the parking lot, neither of them sharing words the entire ride back to their homes. He hated the silence; even if she’d just yell at him, he’d be happy…then there’d be SOME kind of communication, not this…this horrible…awkwardness. ‘It’s your own damn fault stupid; you never should’ve kissed her. She’s old enough to be your kid for Christ sake.’ He scolded himself and pulled into Erica’s driveway. Caden turned the car off and turned to Erica.

“Look Erica, really, I am sorry. I understand if you’re offended or something by my kiss but it wasn’t my intention to do tha�� Caden was cute off my soft lips crushing against his. Immediately he responded and wrapped his arms around her slim waist, shifting his position behind the wheel. Eventually, Erica pulled away needing to catch her breath, Caden did that same.

“Wow…� Was the first thing to come out of Caden’s mouth, causing Erica to laugh lightly.

“I don’t know what came over me.� She blushed and Caden reached over to caress her cheek. ‘She’s too cute…’ He thought to himself.

“Me either, but I liked it a lot.� They both shared a laugh and sat for another moment in silence.

“I um…I should probably get inside…I want to see Emma.�

“Of course…� Just as she went to open the door Caden stopped her.

“Hey Erica, maybe you could get Emma and I could take you guys to the mall, and get her some stuff for her first day of school tomorrow.�

“Oh Caden, that’s really sweet of you, but I can’t let you spend money on us like that.�

“Nonsense, I want to do it. You said yourself you wish you could’ve gotten her new things for her. Let me at least get her a new backpack and some clothes, please.� Erica looked at him and smiled.

“You have to go back to work.� She tried arguing.

“I can easily tell them something came up. I’m not in the middle of a trial so it wouldn’t be much of a problem.� She sat there a minute thinking.

“Okay, I appreciate it; but, Caden ONLY a couple things.� He nodded. “I’ll be right back.�

“Okay…� While Erica was inside getting Emma and talking to Linda, Caden was calling the office to let them know he wouldn’t be in for the rest of the afternoon or any of tomorrow. Erica and Emma came out a few minutes later behind Linda. Linda drove off and the two girls walked towards Caden’s car. Erica buckled Emma in the back and then got in the p[arse]engers seat.

“Hi Emma…� Caden smiled looking at the bright four year old girl. Emma was still shy but she had taken a tiny warming to him.

“Emma, say hi to Caden.� Erica looked back to her daughter.

“Hi Caden...� She greeted him nicely but shyly.

“Hi Emma…� He said again smiling. Erica smiled at her daughter and they drove off towards Westfarms Mall; Emma’s eyes lit up when she saw where they were…she knew where she was.

“Whated we heres for…?� She asked her mom curiously.

“Caden wanted to get you some things for school.� They got out of the car and Erica helped Emma out of the backseat.

“For me…?� She asked hopping around as they progressed their way into the mall.

“Yes, peanut, for you…� Erica laughed tickling her daughter. Caden watched on in awe of the two girls.

“Okay, where should we go first?� Caden turned to Erica asking.

“Limited Too…she loves it there.� Erica had a smile in her voice just talking about Emma.

“Yay!� Emma cheered and just as an instinct, Caden picked her up and hugged her too him smiling.

“C’mon munchkin, let’s get you some pretty new clothes.� Caden carried her while Erica walked beside him, and they made their way inside the store. As soon as they walked in, Emma’s eyes lit up. Every pink item she saw, she wanted. They were in there for an hour, after trying a bunch of clothes on, Caden pulled out his card and paid for it all. As they walked out of the Limited Too, Emma stopped and reached her hands up and out to Caden. He smiled and lifted her into his arms.

“If we could just go and stop at the Gap for her, then we can go home.� Erica asked.

“Of course, anywhere you’d like to go we will.� Caden said happily and they headed for the Gap. Again, Emma’s eyes lit up.

“I’m just going to head to the Baby Gap and pick something up for my co-worker’s newborn.� Caden pointed to the Baby Gap that adjoined the Gap. “You just pick out some things and I’ll be back to pay.� He handed Emma over to Erica.

“Okay, thank you, Caden.�

“You’re welcome.� Erica and Emma picked out some shirts, skirts and pants and tried them on. As they walked through the store, Emma saw a light pink backpack and squealed.

“Pwease mommy…pwease…!â↚¬ÂÂ� Erica sighed, she still felt bad they were spending Caden’s money.

“Okay, and that’s it sweetie, no more today.�

“Tay, tay mommy.� Erica picked the backpack off the rack and Caden was walking towards them.

“Did you find anything good over there?� Erica asked Caden as they made their way to the register. He held up the tiny Baby Gap bag and smiled.

“Yes, I did.� They finished shopping there and after many protests from Erica, Caden won the argument and bought Emma some shoes and school supplies before heading back home. He pulled into her driveway since there were a lot of bags to carry.

“You can just put them by the stairs; I’ll bring them upstairs later.� Erica told Caden regarding the bags. He put them down and Emma gave him a hug.

“Fankies very much.� She said and Caden returned the hug.

“You’re very welcome, have lots of fun at school tomorrow.�

“I wills!� She ran off to play and Caden stood to face Erica.

“Caden, really…I don’t know how to thank you, but I appreciate it so much. It means so much to her…and me.� She reached out to give him a hug.

“You’re welcome, thank you for spending the day with me.� He returned the hug and gave her a kiss on the cheek before she walked him out the door. “What time does her bus come tomorrow?� He turned to ask.

“She has to be out there at 8:35…� Erica smiled wondering why he wanted to know.

“Okay, well good luck, I’ll talk to you tomorrow. Goodnight Erica…� He smiled and got in the car.

“Goodnight Caden…� She whispered to herself and locked the door behind her.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“ABCDEFGHI…â₠¬Ã‚Â� Emma was prancing down the hall singing what she knew of the ABC’s. Erica was in the kitchen making Emma some pancakes.

“Morning baby…� She said happily to Emma.

“Mornings mommy. I trided my ABC’s.�

“I heard…great job pumpkin.� Emma hopped into her chair ready for breakfast. Erica put a plate of pancakes in front of her daughter along with orange juice. She poured some syrup onto the pancakes and heard the doorbell ring. Looking at the clock she noticed it was only 8:15. ‘Who in the world is that?’ She wondered. “I’ll be right back baby…eat up.� She patted Emma on the shoulder and ran to answer the door; she was completely taken by surprise seeing Caden on the other side of the door.

“Caden…†� She spoke trying to hide the surprise.

“Good morning neighbor…� He grinned and they stood there. “So, are you going to be kind and let a nice neighbor in?� Erica laughed and moved to the side allowing him to enter.

“What’s up…? Shouldn’t you be at work?� Erica asked as she closed the door.

“I took the day off; I wanted to be here for you and Emma.� Erica tried containing her awe and just smiled and hugged him.

“Caden, that was very sweet of you. Thank you…� She stepped out of the hug and looked at him. “There are pancakes in the kitchen…�

“Oh, pancakes…yum.� Erica’s stomach turned as he said that.

“You may think so but this baby doesn’t…†� She tried making a joke before rushing towards the bathroom. She figured Caden was well on his way into the kitchen with Emma so she was stunned when her hair was gently pulled back as she vomited into the toilet. Once she’d calmed down a bit she felt a cool wet cloth on the back of her neck and couldn’t help but smile. She sat back and rested her head against the wall smiling gratefully to Caden.

“You okay…?� She nodded.

“Yeah, it’s just the normal and icky part of pregnancy.� She tried laughing, making light of it. She sat for a few seconds and then Caden helped her to her feet, wiping to white cloth over her face she hugged Caden one more time and then they walked into the kitchen where Emma had almost finished her pancakes.

“Caden…!†� Emma looked up and smiled when she saw who was behind her mom. Caden smiled and gave her a hug.

“Hey munchkin…how is breakfast?�

“Mommy did yummy…!� Caden laughed and sat in the seat next to him. Erica cleaned up the kitchen and made a plate for Caden trying to hide the nauseous feeling in her stomach.

“Okay sweetie, you’re going to be late…� Erica stopped and glanced at the clock, it was already 8:30.

“Otays mommy…� Emma jumped out of the chair and Erica handed her backpack to her. She then grabbed her camera and they headed for the door. “Come wif us Caden…!� Emma hollered and he soon followed. Caden took a bunch of pictures of Emma and Erica together in front of the house and then Erica took a bunch of just Emma. Finally, with a couple minutes till the bus was supposed to stop at their driveway, Erica took a few pictures with Caden and Emma; Emma was beaming. They walked to the end of the driveway and Caden and Erica waited with Erica. When the big yellow bus came down the street Erica felt her eyes watering and she pulled Emma in for a hug.

“I love you so much…you be good and have lots of fun for me okay…� She tried holding tears back; she couldn’t cry, not in front of Emma.

“I will…wove you mommy.� Erica kissed her.

“I love you too…� Then Emma latched onto Caden’s leg and he bent down hugging her.

“Have fun munchkin…� He kissed her head and Emma walked towards the bus. Erica waved until the bus was out of sight and as soon as it was; she broke down in Caden’s arms.

“I miss her…�

“I know…I know…� She heard Caden’s soothing words and held onto him tighter, needing to feel the security she did from him. Twenty minutes after Emma left Caden had Erica on the couch in the living room laughing over some corny joke he’d heard from a co-worker.

“Okay, okay…I got two more…� He said laughing at the previous joke; his hand had conveniently found its way on her thigh and she hadn’t attempted to move it.

“There are two antennas and they get married; the ceremony was okay but the reception was great…� Erica looked at him for a minute then burst out laughing and collapsed against his chest.

“That was just as pathetic but funny pathetic.â€ÂÂ� She giggled and looked up at Caden…his blue eyes drowning her. She reached up and kissed him…taking both of them by surprise. Caden leaned down and pulled her to him so she was sitting up; she wrapped her legs around him straddling him. “Um…bedroomâ₠¬Ã‚¦up…upstairs…âà ¢â€šÂ¬Ã‚Â� She barely managed to make out before he lifted her up and they made their way to the staircase. Caden’s hand slid behind her head, his fingers burying in the silky hair at the nape of her neck as he dropped his warm mouth to meet hers. Erica felt completely helpless; her whole body was screaming for him. His other hand slid under the hem of her shirt, her skin was like fire…burning at his every touch. She kissed him back eagerly, running her hands over his back, savoring the feeling of his tight muscles under her fingers.

Before she knew what had happened, Erica and Caden had collapsed onto the stairs. His hand moved forward under her shirt, m[arse]aging her breast through the thin fabric of her bra, teasing her nipple with his rough touch. His mouth traced soft kisses over her ear, jaw and throat she felt him pulling at her shirt, and she raised her arms without thinking. As soon as he had removed her top and bra, Erica leaned up further to slide off his own shirt. He looked at her for a moment, taking in her body silently while letting the back of his hand run softly over her stomach, resting where her baby now lived and would live for the next 9 months and then descended back down between her thighs. His head dropped again, this time to take her breast into his mouth. Letting out a soft moan of pleasure Erica tried to choke out some words. “Caden…maâ€à ‚¦maybe…â€ÂÂ� Those were the only words she managed to get out and they were followed by a deep groan as she felt Caden’s teeth scrape lightly over her nipple. Moving his body up hers more until he could look directly into her eyes, he stopped grinning and his blue eyes burned seriously. Erica couldn’t speak. Instead, she reached one hand up to caresses his cheek and sought out his mouth to meet hers. She used her other hand to take his, leading it to the button on her pants and offering her wordless consent.

Erica barely felt the carpeted stairs pressing into her back as she leaned up to let Caden remove her pants and panties. He stood up and quickly slid out of his pants and boxers; Erica couldn’t help but be shocked to see that tattoos ran over his chest, and bicep. She then smiled at a tattoo of an eagle’s wing on each hipbone. Leaning forward, she ran her lips over one gently and looked up into Caden’s eyes. Caden grinned, and then immediately he let out a soft moan. Erica’s tongue had darted out to trace the shape of the tattoo on his left hip, and her mouth had continued moving, kissing his thigh softly. Very nervously Erica applied small kisses up his hardened length and smiled as she felt him tremble slightly. Her tongue escaped her mouth, running over his shaft, and she felt him sink his fingers into her hair as she took him into her mouth. Moving her head forward, Erica took as much of Caden as she could into her mouth before sliding her head back. She repeated this several times, using her tongue to trace the underside of his erection and her lips to apply pressure to his width. Finally, she felt him gently press her back and away from him, laying her against the steps once more.

“I need to be inside you,� Caden said as he lay back down on top of her. His mouth pressed hard against hers, nearly bruising her lips, his tongue exploring her mouth more. With one hand, he took Erica’s wrists together and pinned them above her head; with the other, he led himself to her entrance. Her body was dripping wet, as Erica was feeling a desire she had never experienced before. He thrust into her hard, all the way, with one quick movement, causing Erica to call out in pleasure and surprise against his mouth.

Caden’s mouth moved over Erica’s jaw and to her throat, he tasted her skin as he buried himself deep inside her several times. When he finally released her wrists, Erica immediately ran her hands over his back. She raised her hips to meet his thrusts as his body desirously took hers, pumping into her fast. His hand teased at her nipple, his tongue traced wet trails over her throat, and he pushed himself inside her over and over, causing waves of pleasure throughout her body. Never before had she given in so fully to her body’s desires; not even with Mitchell…EVER. For the moment, all that could think of was how hot his breath was on her skin, how firm his muscles were under her fingers, how hard his [friend] was inside her.

Teasing at her neck, Caden slid one hand under Erica’s [arse] to bring her closer to him with each movement. There bodies were growing slick with perspiration, and Erica basked in the salty taste of Caden’s shoulder under her tongue as her nails began scraping across the vastness of his back. She felt her body begin to offer signs that she near coming: her muscles contracted low in her stomach, heat pore through her whole body, and suddenly she cried out loudly, unconsciously burying her nails in Caden’s back as she lifted her hips to be filled with him as she felt like her body was exploding. The tightening of her muscles must have been too much for Caden, and barely a moment later he bit into Erica’s shoulder to muffle a cry as he slammed deeply into her one last time, releasing hot liquid inside her.

They both lay there panting, holding tightly to each other, for a long minute. Then, Caden lifted his head and looked at Erica with heavy lidded eyes and a happy grin. “That was…wow,� he said laughing.

Giggling, Erica nodded in agreement. “It was,� she said softly, sliding her hands over his bare back once again. “I’m going to have a killer backache from these stairs tomorrow.� Caden laughed. They lay there a moment relishing in the after sex.

“Hey…now might not be the time…but I came by to give you this…� He stood and grabbed the tiny bag from the Baby Gap and handed it to her.

“After sex gifts I see…� She teased him and opened the bag. “Oh Caden…� She pulled out a tiny baby blanket, pale yellow and fleece. “Caden…you didn’t have to do this…� Caden had joined her by the stairs again.

“I’ve done a lot of things I didn’t have too…I wanted to do it…� He kissed her head and she leaned against him.

“Thank you…�

“It’s okay…� Again, they lay in silence taking it all in; then Caden broke the silence. “Backache…think of the rug burn I’m going to have on my knees from these stairs.� Erica burst out in giggles and Caden just laughed with her.

Okay, that’s the end of this chapter. It was extremely long I know! I’m sorry! Please tell me what you think!!

[Raevengeance]

great add, Jess :)

[StargateGirl]

really good add. :)

[littleprincessj]

Thanks guys. I wrote up the next chapter while I was on vacation. So hopefully, I can type that up soon. I think this next chapters kinda boring though...couldn't get a good grasp on where I wanted it going.

[littleprincessj]

Chapter Five-Meaningful Mistakes

The sunlight was shining through the bedroom window where the two lovers slept cuddled closely, the young blonde’s head rest against her lovers firm chest; his arms wrapped protectively around hers resting where her unborn baby lived.
“Mmm…� She groaned and snuggled closer to him.

“What’s wrong…?� He asked woken from the light slumber he’d succumbed to. She kissed his bare chest.

“Nothing…just my eyes; the sun is killing them.� She opened them squinting and looking into Caden’s piercing blue eyes.

“Well, I believe I can fix that…� He got out of bed, not even bothering to cover himself up and closed the three window shades bringing darkness to the room. Once he had climbed back into bed with his lover he resumed his spot holding her close to him; silence filled the air for a while.

“You know, it was really sweet of you to take the day off just for Emma.� Erica smiled and cooed at the sweet gesture Caden had brought on.

“It was my pleasure…in more ways than one. If I’d known this was gonna happen…� He teased, followed by a smack from Erica.

“You’re too cute aren’t you…?� She teased back.

“I haven’t heard too many complaints from women.� He pulled her close to him gently running his hands over her silky, smooth back. They both lay there in silence before Erica turned on her back and sighed.

“What’s wrong…?� Caden asked, somewhat worried.

“Nothings wrong, I have to work tonight…�

“So don’t go…�

“I have to go, I need the money.� She argued.

“Oh…� Was Caden’s only reply; for another thirty minutes they lay there, resting before Caden rolled over and got up.

“Where are you going…?� Erica asked.

“I have to go home, shower, and run a couple errands before my buddies drag me out to god knows where tonight.� He began getting dressed and Erica sat up wrapping the sheet around her body.

“You and your buddies…?� She asked curiously. He looked over to see her amused expression and sat next to her putting his wrinkled shirt to the side.

“Yes, as old as I am, I have “buddies� still.� He tickled her and she squealed.

“Wednesdays and Fridays, we like to meet up and just have fun.

“That’s cool…well, I’m going to go back to bed for an hour, then Emma will be home so she and I can hang out until I have to leave for work at five.�

“Well, don’t let me keep you from your beauty sleep.� He put his shirt on and gave her a kiss. “I’ll talk to you tomorrow, I’ve got to work but I’ll squeeze you into my schedule somehow.� He teased again, receiving a smack from Erica; he tucked her in.

“Sleep tight…� He kissed her forehead and quietly let himself out. At quarter till noon, Erica groaned and rolled out of bed, gathering some clean clothes and a towel, she showered and got dressed; pink sweatpants and a baby pink fitting tee that read “Gap� across the front. She lightly put some makeup on, and pulled her hair back. Walking out of the bathroom and down the stairs, she stopped at the bottom stairs smiling to herself, remembering her and Caden’s coupling hours before. Making her way towards the kitchen, the baby was trying to tell her it was time to eat, she made herself a sandwich and ate some chips, then she made a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for when Emma got home. When she finished making Emma’s sandwich she put it in the fridge and went outside to wait at the end of the driveway. She glanced in the direction of Caden’s house and took notice to the closed garage doors and vacant driveway. “Gone already.� She smiled, just thinking about him. Ten minutes later, Erica heard the bus as it came to a stop in front of her driveway; she smiled seeing her little girl smiling and making her way down the bus stairs. Immediately, she ran into her mom’s arms giving her a hug.

“Mommy…!†� She screeched; Erica just smiled and waved to the bus driver before leading Emma into the house, Emma was going on and on about her first day, reciting her ABC’s, learning numbers, colors, painting and her new cl[arse]mate and friend; James. Erica kept smiling listening to her daughter going on and on.

“I made you some lunch…� She took the plate from the fridge and put it on the place in front of where Emma was sitting at the island.

“Thanks mommy…�

“You’re welcome buttercup…� Erica just sat next to Emma while she ate her lunch and continued to talk about her first day. For the rest of the day, Emma talked about school, recited what she remembered of her ABC’s and numbers and colored; Erica watched proudly and thrilled at her little girl. At 4:30, Erica went upstairs and got her uniform for work ready, and put it in her bag. She usually changed at work so Emma wouldn’t see. By the time she’d done that and made dinner for her and Emma, Linda, the sitter had shown up ready to take Emma for the evening.

“You be good, go to bed early, you have school tomorrow. I love you…� She gave Emma a kiss and a wave, then walked out to her car and headed for work.

~*~

the first two hours of Erica’s shift dragged on slowly, after that it picked up a little, it wasn’t until ten came around that things picked up and they picked up very quickly too. In just under an hour, she’d already made close to a hundred dollars in tips alone. By 11:30, the place had filled up; one of the hottest female dancers was set to hit the stage, they called her Midnight Mandy and that’s when the shift took a spin for Erica.

“Hey sugar, why don’t you come sit on Big Daddy’s lap…?� A 40 year old, heavy weight bald man slapped Erica’s [arse] as she walked by his table. She rolled her eyes and tried walking towards the bar only to have him pull her back and into his lap. She squirmed and tried to make her way onto her feet but grew repulsed at the feel of his semi-hardening [friend] brushed against the inside of her thigh.

“I told you, big daddy wants you…� He slurred and before he could continue she was pulled out of his arms and brought to her feet; arms protectively wrapped around her waist.

“Her big daddy’s right here you perv.� She heard his voice and smiled before frowning quickly, realizing HE was HERE…the last place she ever thought she’d find him. Walking her away from that table and to his table right up front to where “Midnight Mandy� would be taking the stage, she finally pulled away and looked at him furiously.

“Caden, what the hell are you doing here…?�

End of chapter five.

[littleprincessj]

I'm kind of in a slump in this chapter...I've got some done so I'll try to have it out soon.

[Jessers]

I need to update this...and I will be this coming week I hope :)