Right There with You

By R.J. Sable

Jamie-Lea Carter has been living under the thumb of her older brothers for eighteen years. Having finally moved out to start her new life as a university student she tries to faithfully follow the strictly ordered life they've lain out for her. These rules haven't been an issue for her before because she knows she owes them everything. More than any sibling can ever owe.

She dutifully follows these rules until she meets Jason Reed and the biggest one becomes a problem. No boyfriends. Torn between her loyalty to her brothers and the sizzling attraction to the intriguing ladies' man, Jamie-Lea finds herself on dangerous standings with her overbearing and somewhat aggressive brothers.

Jason Reed isn't intimidated by the Carters. He knows what he wants the moment he sees it and nothing is going to come between him and the girl he never expected to fall for.

With the odds stacked against them, where will this forbidden romance take them?

• Language: English
• Publisher: R.J. Sable
• Release date: Jan 1, 2014
• ISBN: 9781311840431

R.J. Sable

RJ Sable is an author from the UK. She is a lover of language of all kinds and has a degree in linguistics and phonetics. Unfortunately, despite her best efforts she is only fluent in English and Swedish after having lived in Sweden for three years. When she's not writing, RJ can be found with an impossibly large cup of tea, a crochet hook, and a mess of tangled yarn. Alternatively, she might be on her beloved racing bike "Mary" or mountain bike "Bumble" annoying car drivers throughout the midlands.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Saturday, 15th September 2012

Why did I agree to do this? This is not me. I sighed as I reluctantly pulled my stubborn, chestnut hair into a ponytail after ten minutes of trying to coax it into some form of style. My reflection stared at me from the small bathroom mirror. My blue eyes looked back, pale and scared. I wished I was better with makeup. I wished I owned more makeup. I resigned myself to the fact that the simple mascara and eye shadow combination was the best it was going to get for tonight. The less I have on; the less chance there is of me looking like a clown, I reassured myself.

Turning the lights off, I smoothed down the folds in my tight-fitting green dress, which ended just above my knees, slipped on my kitten heels, and grabbed my purse. Locking my room behind me, I squared my shoulders and headed into the kitchen to meet with the rest of my new flatmates.

You're ready? Adam asked, trying and failing to hide the surprise in his voice.

You said eight o'clock. It's five to, I answered, puzzled.

Yeah, but you're... he broke off.

I'm what? I answered, starting to worry. Is the dress not right? Should I get changed? I could feel my cheeks turning pink. I've never been out like this before; I don't know what to wear. I've made a fool of myself again. I never sh-

No, no, no! Not at all, Adam interrupted my train of thought, shooting me a cheeky grin. You look great. More than great.

His eyes quickly scanned my dress, and I saw them flick over to the two other guys who were sat at the kitchen table.

I think what Adam was trying to say was that you're ready on time while the other two girls are still locked in their rooms trying on ninety different outfits, Bradley intervened.

I felt my shoulders sag with relief. Was that all he'd meant? I sat down on the plastic chair next to Bradley and beamed up at Adam.

When you grow up with six older brothers, you learn to get ready quickly.

I can imagine, Bradley answered, grinning sheepishly. We had the honour of meeting a couple of your brothers while you were at Tescos yesterday.

I winced, knowing from experience that it had probably not been pleasant for them. Sorry, I hope they weren't complete arseholes, I joked, surprising myself with my boldness.

If any of them had heard me saying that, they'd be kicking my ass right now. I'd only moved out the day before, and I was already feeling a little brave knowing they were all at least seventy miles away.

They're protective, I'll give you that, Bradley joked. Me, Adam, and Eric were unpacking our kitchen stuff, and they sort of cornered us, he nodded his head towards the third guy in the room with a clean-shaven head and kind green eyes.

I think they just wanted to make sure we didn't have any un-gentlemanly intentions towards their little sister, Eric said, his eyes alight with humour.

I groaned out loud and put my head in my hands. Of course they would do something like that. I have had to endure their overprotectiveness my whole life. There was a massive argument with my brothers regarding me living in mixed halls of residence. Leeds University had been my second choice. When I didn't get into my first choice, most of the halls were already full. Unfortunately, I was forced to take whatever I could get. Personally, I was pretty happy; I was right on campus and only a twenty-minute walk from the city centre. However, that didn't mean my brothers weren't going to give me trouble about it.

Don't worry, Jamie, Adam said, flopping down in the seat beside me and brushing his caramel hair out of his hazel eyes. We promised to look after you, he winked, sticking his tongue out at me in a playful fashion.

I couldn't resist smiling. Thanks, I said, looking up at him.

Eager to draw the focus away from my dysfunctional family, I looked around at them and asked what they were studying. We'd only moved in the day before and, aside from quick introductions; I only had a chance to chat with only Adam because he was the only one that knocked on my door to say hello last night. He stayed to watch a film on my laptop with me. However, we missed the entire film completely because the two of us talked until two in the morning.

We had so much in common, and I was delighted to discover that we were both taking English. I was instantly relieved that Adam and I became fast friends. I was so used to being surrounded by my brothers all the time and that made it hard to make friends because they were always around me.

I had a part-time job at the gym the twins owned and, even though Matt wasn't technically my brother, he'd lived at our house since around the time I was born so he was practically family. He taught P.E. at my school so I was not able to escape their watchful eyes at school either. Even though I often resented their constant over-protection, now that I was alone, I felt pretty scared and vulnerable. Not that I'd admit it to them.

I'm studying Engineering, Eric said, bringing me back to the now.

And I'm studying Law, Bradley said, raising his beer to his lips and taking a long sip.

You want something to drink, shorty? Adam asked, heading to the communal fridge.

I shook my head, feeling the all too familiar blush returning to my cheeks. We're both studying English, I said, gesturing to Adam.

Cool, Bradley replied, Do you know what the other girls are studying?

I think Emma is studying Fashion, I'm not sure about Sarah though.

The guys nodded. Phew, embarrassing moment avoided. I sighed inwardly.

You sure you don't want a beer or something, Jamie?

Or not. I cringed, not sure what to say. I can't…I mean, I don't… I trailed off, trying to focus all my attention on a crack on the linoleum floor and waiting for the awkward silence to pass.

You don't drink? Adam asked sounding a little surprised but admittedly not as surprised as I had expected.

I shook my head, certain that my cheeks were going to set off the fire alarms.

No worries, you want some juice or something? He said coolly.

No thanks, I'm good, I smiled, relieved that nobody was making a big deal out of this.

Friends and classmates had been nagging me to have 'just one' since year ten. It wasn’t like I'd never been drunk before but in my experience, the benefits weren't worth the consequences. I'd come home drunk once after a party when I was fifteen. It was stupid; I'd had to beg for a week to be allowed to go out, and made all sorts of promises. Ian, my eldest brother and legal guardian, had eventually given in, but only on the condition that my youngest brother, Jake, came with me.

The party was bigger than expected, and Jake had gotten distracted playing football with some of his sixth form friends. I got a little excited by the situation and took full advantage. Of course, I was easily persuaded into playing a drinking game with some others.

Jake had to practically carry me all the way home. I barely remembered any of what happened and both of us had gotten a good ass-kicking the next morning. Jake hadn't talked to me for weeks afterwards and made a point of making my life a living hell for a good while after that.

I sat contently listening to the guys chat about their A-level results and which sixth forms and colleges they'd been to. At around twenty past, the other girls came into the kitchen. They looked fantastic; both wearing tiny dresses that barely covered the essentials. So much for me worrying about my dress being too short.

Emma had styled her auburn hair into luscious curls that fell around her shoulders and onto her milky white skin. Sarah had plaited her straight, dark brown hair into a fishtail plait, which she had worked around the side of her head to fall over her right shoulder. I once again cursed my hair and my inability to do anything attractive with it. The girls were both wearing impossibly high heels that amplified their curvaceous figures and I found myself extremely disappointed with my boyish, flat body. They popped open a bottle of Lambrini and poured it into a couple of highball glasses.

Classy, ladies, Eric joked, flashing them both a cheeky smile.

¨We're students now, guys, no point fighting it! Emma giggled as she took a generous sip from her glass.

Looking forward to tonight? Sarah asked, sitting down on one of the spare chairs and glancing around at us all.

Everybody nodded, and the discussion turned to the bands that were going to be playing. Emma pulled up her chair next to me and handed me her smartphone.

I can't find you on Facebook! She whined. Type in your name so I can add you!

I did as I was told and handed the phone back to her.

Jamie-Lea Carter, she said, seemingly to herself, as she read my name and searched for me. That's cute; you should use your whole name!

Thanks, I smiled shyly at her. I haven't been called Jamie-Lea in years. Hardly anybody calls me Jamie anymore. It's a refreshing change, I admitted.

Oh? What do people usually call you? She asked just as Eric shot his empty beer can into the bin on the other side of the room, making an impressive but noisy shot.

Everybody howled and yelled out eager squeals and gave him an around of applause. He thankfully distracted Emma who bounced up from her seat and decided it was time to take a group photo.

You know, before we all start hating each other for being awful flatmates! She joked as we all stood up.

I tried to position myself behind Adam and Bradley but Adam grabbed my shoulders and pushed me in front of him.

No chance, shorty. Nobody'll be able to see you back there, you're too little.

I glared at him. I'm 5ft 5" that's not really that little. Seeing as he was a good few inches taller, I didn't correct him.

Half an hour and an empty bottle of Lambrini later, we were on our way to the Student Union. It was only a five-minute walk from the halls so we braced the September winds with our jackets wrapped tightly around us.

When we got to the SU building, there was already quite a queue. We joined the end of it and looked around at the sea of freshers and returning students ready for the start of a new academic year. Emma and Sarah were chatting away with Bradley and Eric about music and I stood just behind them listening with Adam. I shivered slightly, feeling that bare legs weren't really appropriate for the time of year.

You okay, Jamie? Adam asked.

I'm fine, just a little chilly. I'm sure it won't be long until we're inside, I smiled up at him.

You're nesh, he scoffed putting his arm around my shoulder and pulling me into his side.

I would have protested but he really was quite warm.

You're vibrating, he said

I'm not that cold, I retorted, looking up at him quizzically through my pathetically mascaraed lashes.

No, I mean your phone, he chuckled.

Oh, I mumbled, quickly tearing myself away from him and searching though my clutch purse like a mad woman. I grabbed my phone and saw Karl's name on the screen. My second oldest brother. I sighed and pressed the answer button.

Hi, Karl, I answered as cheerily as I could.

Where are you? He said abruptly, sounding less than happy.

What do you mean? I'm at uni, of course.

Don't be a smartass, Jelly. Where are you?

I'm outside the SU, queuing to get in, but-

Dressed like that? He sounded pissed.

How do you know what I'm wearing?

I glanced around, half expecting to see a few of my brothers dotted around, keeping tabs on me.

Facebook, he grunted in reply.

Emma must have uploaded the image and tagged us already. I sighed inwardly. I've been away from home one night and nothing has changed.

Karl, I-

You're asking for the wrong sort of attention, Jelly.

But-

You look like a right slag! He spat and I could feel the tears threatening at his harsh words.

I'm sorry, sir, I said quietly, taking a few steps towards the bushes so that people were less likely to hear me. Everyone else is dressed like this. I wasn't trying to dress inappropriately, I swear, I pleaded with him. I heard his exasperated sigh down the phone.

None of us are there to clean up after you, Jelly. Don't do anything stupid and text me when you get home. I don't care what time it is. I swear if you don't text me, I'm driving up there first thing and bringing you home.

He hung up the phone without giving me a chance to reply. I sighed deeply, trying to blink back the tears forming in my eyes and remind myself that this was just his way of showing he cared.

You okay, chick? Adam asked, replacing his arm around my shoulder and guiding me back to the others. You look kinda upset, who was that?

I'm fine, I promise, I replied, forcing a smile. That was just my brother worrying about me going out. They're somewhat over-protective, I said resignedly.

Yeah, I noticed. Isn't that more your parents job? He joked.

I, eh... my brothers raised me, I stammered awkwardly. You’d think I’d be used to answering that question by now, but the stab of pain never went away.

Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to pry, he said, a slight blush gracing his fine cheekbones.

No, it's okay, I smiled as best I could.

At that moment, the queue started moving forward, and Adam was spared the awkwardness hanging in the air.

As we all made our way into the middle of the dance floor, my anxiety returned a little. I don't dance. Sarah had grabbed my hand and was already gyrating her hips and clearing space for us all. The music was deafening, and the general level of intoxication was obvious in the atmosphere. I glanced cautiously around at all the other people dancing and tried to copy some of the less indecent, simpler moves, feeling completely ridiculous.

After an hour and a half on the dance floor, I was hot and sweaty and only slightly less uncomfortable. I'd witnessed several people making complete fools of themselves around me, but that didn't mean I was any more willing to do so myself.

I glanced at the group, trying to catch somebody's eye to let them know I was going to step out, but they all seemed pretty engaged in their dancing. I grabbed Adam's elbow and shouted into his ear, but he shook his head and pointed to his ears, indicating he couldn’t hear me. I shook my head at him and waved him off, and he went back to dancing with a pretty blonde girl, with a boyish grin on his face. I forced my way through the crowd, getting bashed around in the process. Eventually, I broke through to the cooler edges of the room and was able to finally breathe again.

A glass of cold water was just what I needed, so I made my way towards the bar. I hesitated when I saw how packed it was. Sighing heavily, I placed myself behind three rows of sweaty students, all clambering to be served. After ten minutes, I hadn't made any progress, so I gave up. I turned around and found my way blocked by a wall of muscle. I looked up and was met by a pair of startlingly clear, green-blue eyes, framed by thick, black lashes. His dirty-blond hair was tousled in a 'just-out-of-bed thanks to £50 of product' look.

Careful there, he said, steadying me as I almost fell into him.

S...Sorry, I stammered, regaining my balance as he took his strong hands off my shoulders. I was slightly breathless, and I wasn't sure that it could be entirely attributed to my near fall.

I took a closer look at the man that I’d fallen into in my usual clumsy style. His eyes had so much colour and emotion in them. It was like looking into a well; thousands of shades of blue and green, hiding treasures and wishes in their deepest depths.

Did you decide that the booze wasn't worth the wait? He grinned at me, gesturing to the bar. He had an air of control about him, as though he was aware of everything happening around him. It was a familiar expression, one that I associated with Ian. He always knew exactly where everyone in the room was standing, and nothing ever escaped him. Feeling the same aura from this enticing stranger made me feel inexplicably safe and slightly cautious at the same time.

I was only after some water, I said, standing on my tiptoes and leaning into his ear so he could hear me over the music.

He nodded and motioned for me to follow. Unsure if I ought to be following a strange man in a club, I hesitated a little. He turned back and looked at me quizzically, but smiling.

I'm just going to get you some water, don't worry, he said, bending down to meet me at my level.

His warm breath fluttered against my ear, and I felt my skin break out in goosebumps in response. Deciding that there were plenty of witnesses, I followed him to just outside the nightclub, next to the now closed Co-Op and coffee shops.

They always have a water machine out here, he gestured to the contraption behind me. The SU's attempt to promote responsible drinking, he grinned.

I helped myself to a glass of ice-cold water and knocked it back straight away, refilling my cup.

Not working for you, I see, I nodded towards the beer bottle in his hand.

I'll have you know this is alcohol-free, he said, showing me the label. His eyes flashed with what almost looked like hurt. As though he was a small child being reprimanded.

I was only kidding, I said quickly. Thanks for the help, I smiled up at him.

Anytime, he answered, offering his hand to me. I'm Jason.

Jamie-Lea, I replied, taking his hand.

I felt my fingertips tingle as he shook my hand firmly, and I started to wonder if it had been water that I'd just drunk.

Nice to meet you, Jamie-Lea, he said, flashing me a million dollar smile.

And you, I said, taking in his appearance more fully now that the light permitted. He must have been in his mid- twenties; he looked around the same age as my brother, Craig. He was wearing a tight fitting pinstripe shirt, rolled over his muscular forearms. The top two buttons were open, revealing a toned chest with a spattering of light chest hair. He had a woven rope bracelet around his right wrist and a pair of perfectly fitting stonewash jeans that hung loosely on his hips.

I guess you're not a fresher, I said quietly, lowering my gaze down at the floor and blushing as I realised I'd been blatantly staring at him.

No, he laughed. I'm a Ph.D. student; I did my masters here and loved it so much I didn't want to leave, he said with another of his heart-melting smiles.

Oh, cool, I said, suddenly feeling a little stupid. I guess that makes you a bit of a genius. Oh, way to go, Jamie, real smooth. I cursed myself inwardly, feeling more and more awkward by the minute.

I don't know about that, he said smoothly. How about you? You've got that scared squirrel fresher look. He shot me a cheeky grin.

Scared squirrel? I scoffed, realising that it was probably very true. Yeah, I just moved here yesterday. I'm studying English.

There you are, Jamie-Lea! Emma said coming up behind me.

Hi, sorry, I was just grabbing some water. It was hot in there.

She took a few seconds to look at Jason, her eyes taking in his well-toned body for just a little too long, which made me uncomfortable.

Hi, I'm Emma, she said to him, fluttering her eyelashes.

I frowned.

Jason, he replied, returning his eyes to me. Listen, you should drop by the athletics booth at the freshers’ fair on Monday morning. I'll be there. I can show you around a bit, he said enthusiastically. He held my gaze for a few seconds. I couldn't ignore the intensity that gleamed out from behind his dark pupils. I smiled and opened my mouth to answer, but Emma answered him first.

We'll be there, she nodded vigorously.

Cool. His eyes flitted to her and back. Enjoy your water, he winked and strolled back off towards the nightclub.

"He was fit!" Emma announced as soon as he was out of earshot.

I giggled, and she dragged me back towards the dance floor. We danced for a while longer until we decided to call it a night at around two. We lost Adam to the leggy blonde, and Sarah disappeared with a well-built Italian. The rest of us made a hasty retreat through the chilly air back to the flat. It had been a pretty good night, all in all. I smiled as I thought about the freshers’ fair. It would be nice to get a better look around.

Relieved to be home and somewhat exhausted, I changed into some shorts and one of Craig's old T-shirts. I climbed over a few unpacked boxes and slid into bed with my phone. I plugged it into the charger on the bedside table and sent a quick text to Karl.

Hi Karl.

I'm home. Sorry it's late.

Had a good night.

Sorry if I worried you.

xx JL

I shut my eyes and was asleep before I knew it.

***

Sunday, 16th September 2012

I woke up to the sun shining through the fairly ineffective, vomit-coloured curtains in my room. I picked up my phone and glanced at the time. It was half past eight. Pretty late rising for me; I was used to being up at six. It felt like a real luxury to have been allowed such a lie-in.

I noticed a few blinking messages on my phone. I had a few notifications from Facebook taggings and comments, and a few texts. I opened my inbox to read the texts I'd missed from last night. Two from the twins at around 20:45 and one from Karl at 02:20 this morning. My identical twin brothers had sent me identical texts.

Karl's pissed.

You're in trouble!

Cursing myself for not reading them last night, so I at least had a warning, I messaged them both back.

Thanks for the heads up.

Miss you all

xx JL

I opened the message from Karl.

Ok. This isn't over.

I groaned loudly into my pillow. Why can't they just let stuff like this go? I get the whole wanting to protect me thing, but I'm eighteen now. They have no right to tell me what I can and can't wear, do they? I sighed, feeling guilty that I was questioning them after everything they'd done for me. I rolled out of bed and, in a moment of defiance, didn’t re-make it. Ian and Karl made sure our beds were made up every morning, making us redo them if they weren’t up to scratch.

I nipped into the cupboard-sized, en-suite bathroom and pulled on my running gear. I enabled the GPS programme that Ian had put on my phone so that anybody on my friends list could see where I was when I was running. For my safety, they'd insisted. I headed out the door, locking it behind me and trying to put my ear buds in so that they sat comfortably. I almost crashed into Adam as I went through the building doors.

Hey, Player! I greeted him with a small hug.

Ugh, don't judge me! He groaned, sounding a little worse for wear.

I'm not! I protested, giggling slightly. Six brothers, remember!

He grinned back at me. You off for a run? He looked at me as if I was insane.

Yeah, I thought I'd look around a bit before breakfast.

You're a mad woman! He grinned and waved as he headed inside.

I turned up the volume and set off to explore the campus. I made a mental note to make my bed when I got home, because staging an impromptu Skype bed inspection was exactly the sort of thing Ian would likely do.

Chapter 2

Monday, 17th September 2012

So we're going to the freshers’ fair today, right? Emma asked as we sat eating our breakfasts in the kitchen. You know, to get Mr. Hottie to show you around? She asked, fluttering her eyelashes once more.

I was going to go to the freshers’ fair already to sign up for some clubs and get some freebies. I refused to admit I would like to see Jason again, even though it was pointless.

I learned very quickly that there was no point getting into any relationship beyond friendship with guys. Even my male friends were often victim to my overbearing brothers. Alex, my best friend back home, had taken his fair share of beatings. He didn't get scared off like all the other guys, and that's what I loved about him.

You've got to admit he's hot though, right?

I sighed, not wanting to get into it. Of course he was hot; you’d have to be blind to miss it. But it didn’t matter either way.

You must be used to being surrounded by guys with a lot of muscles. I saw some of the guys you were with when you moved in. They your entourage? She grinned at me.

I laughed; they'd probably have exploded if they'd heard her call them that. No, I replied, still giggling. They're my brothers.

I'm sure you don't want to hear this, but they were really fit! She exclaimed.

I rolled my eyes at her. It wasn't like it was news to me. I had tonnes of girls trying to befriend me so that they could get close to Craig and Jake while we'd been at school together. It had gotten old pretty fast. They were always with new girls. Except for Karl, he'd been with Elise since he was seventeen. They were adorable together, and she was the closest thing I had to a big sister in my life.

Are they single?

Not sure, probably. They don't talk to me about that sort of stuff, I admitted reluctantly.

I think she sensed my hesitance and switched topics.

The freshers’ fair starts at ten, want to check with the others to see if they want to come?

Yeah, that'd be cool. Let's hope they wake up in time, I grinned at her.

We ate our breakfast together, and she chatted away about her family and friends back home. She was a lot more fun than I originally thought. Dressed in her baggy grey sports shirt and short shorts, with no make-up and bed-head, she seemed much less girly-girl and a little more tomboy. I could relate to her better. I kept relatively quiet, content to listen to her speak, nodding when it was appropriate. After half an hour, I felt like I knew her much better.

Adam came through the kitchen door wearing only a pair of jogging bottoms, hanging off his hips and giving us a view of his well-defined abs and smooth chest.

Morning! We both chimed as he wiped the sleep out of his eyes.

Morning, ladies, he nodded to us, grabbing some cereal out of his cupboard.

As he was helping himself to a generous portion, Emma turned back to me.

So tell me about your family, she said with a smile.

Well, there's not much to tell. Just me and my six older brothers, and Matt, who’s like an adopted brother. He's lived with us since I was born, I said, noticing that Adam was listening. I blushed; it wasn’t that I was ashamed of my family. It was just that, once I described them, I usually got sympathetic looks that made everything awkward.

And your parents? She asked.

I cringed a little, knowing where this was going. However, I figured it was better to get it out the way and hoped my roommates would gossip amongst themselves so I wouldn’t have to tell the story more than once.

My mum died when I was a baby and my dad was killed in a military exercise when I was six. My brothers raised me with a little help from our relatives.

There was the stunned silence. Here comes the awkwardness.

Oh, Jamie-Lea, I'm so sorry... I didn't mean... I mean... She stammered, looking for the right words. Nobody ever found the right words.

God, these value coco-pops taste like sawdust! Adam spluttered, taking us both by surprise.

I couldn't help but laugh and be grateful to him for bringing some levity to the situation.

Kinda having a deep conversation here, Adam! Emma said, sounding a little annoyed.

And I'm suffering without a decent morning sugar kick here, woman! He quipped, shooting me a wink.

Emma sighed as she turned to the sink and washed her dishes up. I'll meet you in here at twenty to, Jamie-Lea? She said as she made her way to the door.

Sounds like a plan! I answered warmly.

Once she was out the door, Adam focused on me, the playful look in his eyes replaced with one of concern.

Did you mind? He asked gently.

No, thanks for rescuing me, I said earnestly.

Anytime, he grinned, relaxing. I was raised in foster care, so I get where you're coming from.

I nodded. I never would have guessed he didn't come from a normal, happy, family home. He seemed so well balanced and confident.

So, where are we going at twenty to? He grinned at me.

Adam, Bradley, Emma, and I were all up in time to make it to the freshers’ fair. We walked around the stalls, grabbing goodie bags of everything from condoms to kitchen utensils. I found plenty of clubs to sign up for and splashed out £100 for a sports club membership for the year, which meant I could use the gym for fifty pence, a time and it included sports clubs.

My brothers were pretty ruthless about exercise, so at least they couldn’t accuse me of slacking off. We passed through the sports booths, and I lost the others as I signed up for the running and swimming clubs before stopping at the athletics booth. There were those blue-green eyes again. Although, now we were in daylight, they looked more green than blue. He'd already seen me and was smiling that smile that made my legs tremble as I made my way to the booth.

Jamie! Hi, little squirrel! He said, squeezing his way around the table to give me a one-armed hug.

Hi, Jason, I said quietly, unable to bring my gaze up from the floor. I'm not sure that nickname is going to work, I mumbled, feeling my cheeks redden.

Too late, it's stuck now, he said, and I caught him grinning as I chanced a look to his well sculpted, full lips. Will you sign up for athletics club, you know, since you're here already?

I thought you were going to give me a tour? I chanced another look, this time at his too thick lashes.

"Sure. If you sign up for athletics club."

Blackmail, that's your game? I grinned, feeling a little more relaxed.

You got me. Come on, you're obviously a runner, you'll love it.

That one caught me off guard. How does he know I run?

You were showing your legs off on Saturday, he grinned, seemingly reading my thoughts. Plus I saw you this morning.

Oh God, you saw me all sweaty and gross! I cringed as he laughed. His laugh was so warm and deep and sent pleasant vibrations down my spine.

It wasn't that bad, he said kindly.

My face must have gone from pink to puce, and I wanted the floor to swallow me whole.

Honestly, you looked lovely, he said trying to ease my discomfort. Take a look at our pamphlet.

I focused all my attention on the words in front of me, so I didn't have to look up at him. I had to admit, it did sound fun. I wasn't used to training on my own, and it'd be nice to try a few different things with some new people.

He placed his right arm around my waist as he pointed out things in the leaflet. I found it hard to concentrate with his hand on my hip sending tingles through my body, which I valiantly tried to ignore. What's wrong with me?

Stop, stop, I'm sold! I said, cutting him off mid spiel.

You'll sign up? He asked, his eyes lighting up.

I couldn't help but smile. His eyes made me feel a connection to him that I couldn't explain. It was clear there was a lot of depth hidden behind those cerulean shields.

If it'll get you to give me my tour, then what choice do I have? I exclaimed, pouting and attempting to sound annoyed.

None at all, he answered seriously.

I shoved all my freebies clumsily into my backpack and followed him out into the entrance hall.

What do you want to see first? He asked.

You're the expert, what's worth seeing? I blinked up at him.

He smiled that irresistible smile and offered me his hand, which I took cautiously, wondering just how many days he'd need to spend in a hospital if my brothers were here. He led me out of the student union and across towards the main building. We walked in a strangely comfortable silence as I enjoyed the warmth of his hand, which was rougher than I had expected.

This is undoubtedly the most important place on campus, he announced, stopping in a large and bustling hall outside the library.

Oh? I asked inquisitively. And why is that?

Because they have the best coffee, he declared, gesturing to the right of the library where a cosy open plan coffee shop was located.

Is that so? I answered before I could stop myself. His playful demeanour made me so at ease.

It sounds like you don't believe me, which means I have to prove it to you. His voice was smooth, with just the right amount of a growl to accent the masculinity he exuded from every pore. He put his hand on the small of my back and guided me to one of the small tables in the corner before I could object.

What can I get you?

No, you can't buy me a coffee! I argued, immediately regretting my outburst.

Oh, and why is that? He asked with an amused grin.

Because this isn't the twentieth century! I said stubbornly, feeling the heat rush to my cheeks. I had enough men trying to look after me at home; I didn't think I needed another one here.

Alright then, crazy lady. How about I buy this coffee, and you buy the next one? As long as you promise not to burn your bra while I fetch them, he winked at me and turned away, leaving me speechless at the table.

He was smiling, but I felt guilty; I didn’t mean to be rude. I didn't have time to ponder it any further because I felt my phone vibrating in my jeans pocket.

Hello? I said, answering it quickly so I could stop feeling guilty.

Hi, Jelly! I recognized Craig's voice and felt my lips immediately curving into a smile.

Hi, Craig! How are you?

I'm good. You sound happy.

Course I'm happy, I get to talk to you! I grinned.

I helped you move on Friday, Jelly. It's been a whole three days. I could practically hear him grinning.

I know, but I miss you guys.

You could move back home? He suggested.

Yeah right! I scoffed. You'd never let me live it down. I'd end up being your little house maid or something, I said seriously. Plus, I'm having fun up here, I added honestly.

Good, I'm glad. As long as you're careful, he said sternly.

I rolled my eyes at him.

Don't roll your eyes at me.

How did you know? I sighed.

Always know, and you should know that by now. You're lucky I'm not there, or you'd be paying for it.

I sighed and rolled my eyes again, enjoying my defiance. Was there something you wanted? I said, frustrated.

Watch your tone, Jelly, he warned.

Sorry, I said quietly, automatically lowering my gaze to the floor.

I have a match tonight and I needed to talk to my lucky charm.

Jason wandered back over to the table carrying a tray with two mugs and what appeared to be a blueberry muffin. I smiled up at him and gestured to my phone, mouthing an apology.

You have a match? I asked, thinking it was odd for him to have a fight on a Monday.

Yep, someone coming through town just for a couple of days and wanting to settle an old score.

You've fought him before then?

Yup.

Did you win?

Don't ask stupid questions, Jelly, he warned, but I could hear the humour in his voice.

Just wanted to make sure you were going to win.

I promise, he said gently, and I knew he meant it.

We were silent for a few seconds before he spoke again.

Take care, sis. I'll text you after the fight.

Please do.

The line went dead. I slipped my phone back into my pocket and looked up at Jason, who was staring at me intently. I felt my cheeks redden once more.

Sorry about that, I said, embarrassed to have ignored him straight after I was rude to him.

No need to apologise, it was interesting watching all your facial expressions while you talked, he said with a smile.

It made me conscious to realise he'd been watching me so closely. Sorry, I mumbled quietly.

What are you sorry for? He asked, perplexed. You made some pretty adorable faces. He winked at me and took a sip of his coffee. Although it did make me curious. One second you're happy, the next you're sad, then anxious, then happy. Looked like an emotional call.

It was my brother, I shrugged.

You have a brother? He asked, intrigued.

I have a few... listen, I said, feeling the need to explain myself. I didn't mean to be rude earlier, I was just uncomfortable making you pay for me. I'm not used to it, I admitted.

Don't worry, little squirrel, I wasn't offended.

I'm still not a fan of that nickname, I frowned at him, but I was secretly glad that I hadn't offended him.

Well then, you'll just have to convince me not to use it over a series of delightful coffee meetings, he mused.

How do you know they're going to be delightful? I asked curiously.

Well, so far so good, he winked again.

Oh yes, so far I've been rude, ignored you while I was on the phone, and made you pay. I rolled my eyes at him without thinking, but he just laughed and smiled.

What can I say? At least you're entertaining, he smirked. I decided to take a chance on your beverage preference instead of giving you the opportunity to argue with me about who should be paying. He pushed a large white mug with a frothy leaf pattern on top towards me.

Thank you, I replied, wondering if my cheeks were ever going to return to a natural colour.

You're welcome; that's a soy latte.

Ooh, my favourite! I exclaimed, delighted that he'd gotten me my favourite drink without me asking.

Really? He grinned. Mine too.

I smiled up at him as I took a tentative sip of my hot beverage.

Yum! I exclaimed after the creamy liquid washed over my taste buds. You weren't lying, this stuff is great, thank you!

Anytime, he looked genuinely pleased. So, your brother fights? He asked, raising his eyebrows at me.

Yeah, Craig does, he's into MMA.

Interesting, I've been known to dabble myself, he smirked and I almost choked on my coffee as I laughed at his word choice.

Dabble? I said between coughs and giggles.

Indeed. I got the impression he wasn't telling me everything. Is he good, your brother?

I don't know, I've never been allowed to watch one of his fights, I admitted. He doesn't seem to lose very much though, I said, hearing the pride in my voice.

Hm, what's your surname? Jason asked, wrinkling his brow.

Carter, why?

Holy shit! Your brother is Craig Carter? He said so loudly that people stopped and stared at us.

Um… yeah, why? Do you know him? I asked confusion setting in.

Know him, Jesus, he's a legend! He admitted, his jaw hanging open.

He is? I said, unable to hold back the surprise in my voice.

Well, in certain circles. He's good. Really good. I... eh... I've actually fought him a couple of times. Not recently, a few years back when I was a student at Cambridge.

This was news to me; I wasn't really sure how to process the information.

You fight too? I asked, still trying to get my head around the idea that Craig was a legend. I'd seen him get his ass handed to him by Ian and Karl on multiple occasions.

Yeah, well, I used to. I lost interest a few years back and moved into other sports, but I still like to follow MMA news.

I didn't know what to say so I took another sip of my latte and watched Jason, who seemed to be lost in another world.

Sorry, he said suddenly, his eyes snapping back to me. I just can't believe that I'm sitting here with Craig Carter's sister.


I took another sip of my coffee and smiled weakly up at him, becoming more and more uncomfortable with each second. He seemed to sense my discomfort and pushed the plate with the muffin over towards me.

I wasn't sure if you'd want anything else so I thought maybe we could share this muffin if you wanted? He asked cautiously.

Thanks, I smiled, realising for the first time since I moved out that I was actually going to be able to eat a muffin without it being stolen by one of my brothers. This opens many doors for me. I couldn't remember the last time I'd eaten anything delicious and was able to eat it all without one of my brothers snatching it away from me. I didn't mind. My brothers all ate like their legs were hollow; they never stopped being hungry. They needed the food more than I did, but every now and then it would have been nice to not feel rushed to eat my food just so that I got to eat a bit more of it.

The rest of the conversation passed without further mention of my brother or his MMA career. Jason talked about his Ph.D. in Renewable Energy Systems and how he planned on using it to work towards more sustainable energy and new power sources or some such. It was all a bit over my head, but his passion was fascinating. He quizzed me about my degree and why I wanted to become a teacher. He made me laugh, and I felt relaxed around him. I usually struggled to open up to people, but he made it easy. As we finished off the muffin and our coffees, I felt my phone vibrate once more.

Sorry, I apologised again, pulling my phone out my pocket.

Hey! Where did you disappear?

Hope you're ok.

Want to have to dinner

With the rest of us tonight?

Emma xoxo

Just my flatmate wondering where I was and checking to see if I was okay, I explained to Jason, texting Emma a quick reply.

No worries, he smiled. Is she worried I've kidnapped you? He joked

If she was she'd be more jealous, I suspect, I said, rolling my eyes.

He grinned as he cleared away the dishes onto the tray and put it on the waiting trolley. I thought it was incredibly sweet. I mean the trolley was there for a reason. I hated it when people just expected others to clean up after them like that. When he was done, he returned and offered his hand to me once more.

Let's get on with the rest of the tour.

***

That evening, I settled down