The Starr Series: Starr Fated & Starr Destined

By G E Griffin

A combined edition of The Starr Series is now available.

Starr Fated - When beautiful art student Seraphina Jones becomes involved with the Starr brothers, her life ends up taking a very different path to the one she had always envisaged. Jamie - the good looking, kind and easy going economics student. Liam - the controlling, cynical, and wealthy business man.
All three of their lives become irrevocably intertwined in this tale of erotic awakenings.

Starr Destined - Does running away ever really solve anything? Well, it's the best solution Seraphina can come up with, to deal with her shattered heart after a painful betrayal, while Liam fights to keep control of his life when aspects of his murky past come back to haunt him.

Recommended for readers 18+ REVISED AUGUST 2020

• Language: English
• Publisher: G E Griffin
• Release date: Jul 31, 2015
• ISBN: 9780957674561

G E Griffin

Wife, mother of three grown up daughters, and now an author. How on earth did that happen?​I've always loved a good romantic story, and I've always had an over active imagination. And doesn't everyone have stories going round in their head all the time, to help them escape from boring mundane jobs, or the usual everyday life dramas? Apparently not, according to my very practical and down to earth engineer husband.However, it wasn't until my youngest daughter flew the nest to head off to university, and I needed to find a way to overcome empty nest syndrome that I actually started writing these stories down.I live in Surrey, in the south of England, where I watch the seasons roll by from the window of the little study where I sit and write.Apart from writing, I love photography, and travelling to places where there are beautiful gardens and scenery to admire. But I think my favourite hobby of all is people watching. That, and more years of life experience than I care to admit to, are what I use to draw on when I'm writing.

Book preview

Book One

Chapter 1

Seraphina

"One of these places will have to do," I told myself, as I sat on the tube train one afternoon in September. I quickly scanned the details of the three rooms I’d shortlisted as possibilities to rent. They were all in a suitably cheap, and therefore rough area of London, but at least I’d be able to walk to my lectures at Central Saint Martin’s College of Art and Design, where I was about to start the final year of my BA Graphic Design degree.

The snotty cow in the accommodation office had tutted at me for leaving it so late when I’d asked for a list of approved digs, but I’d had to work through the summer holidays to save up the rent deposit before sorting out somewhere to live.

I’d spent the summer sleeping on my best friend Abbey’s sofa, but as her student house was already bursting at the seams with five other girls, some of whom had made it plain I’d outstayed my welcome, it wasn’t a long term option.

I’d set aside the small nest egg my mum had left me when she died, saving it for essentials such as a laptop, and the photographic equipment I needed for my course. I hated living hand to mouth, but that’s how it had to be when you didn’t have wealthy parents to support you through university.

My father had been killed in an accident on a building site when I was only two years old, so sadly I don't remember him. My mother never remarried, so growing up it had just been the two of us, and we’d been very close, both having the same creative, artistic nature.

I’d only just turned eighteen when she died, killed instantly by a stolen car being pursued by the police, which failed to stop at a pedestrian crossing. When she was taken from me so suddenly, my whole world fell apart, leaving me numb and barely able to operate. But I forced myself to carry on, knowing it was what she would have wanted, and I still heard her voice in my head sometimes, trying to guide and help me, which my Irish Grandma claimed was Mum’s aura living through me, but that was just some old Irish superstition she clung to.

So sadly, Mum wasn’t there to celebrate when I got my place at Central Saint Martin’s, nor was she there to support me through the three long years of hard work a graphic design degree demanded. Her wish to see me follow her dream kept me going when I was tempted to give it all up and just get a job instead.

When I glanced up, I realised we’d nearly reached my stop, so I hastily gathered up my belongings. I’d noticed the tall, good looking guy sitting opposite me, but had ignored his flirty smile. He was a lean build, looked to be in his early twenties, had messy dark blonde hair and cheek bones to die for. Yep, seriously gorgeous. Too bad I hadn’t got time for distractions like flirting and dating.

Being considered attractive by males could often be a hindrance rather than an advantage. It was much harder to be taken seriously if you had a pretty face, because you couldn’t possibly have a brain as well. And other females would often assume I was a man-eater, when I really didn’t have the time or inclination for a boyfriend, although I did have friends, some of whom happened to be boys.

I inherited my looks from my mother’s side of the family, who all lived in Ireland. My mother had come to London to study art and design, but had fallen madly in love with my father, ending up pregnant and married at the age of eighteen and dropping out of college to raise me. I’d been named Seraphina to balance out our boring surname of Jones, but I preferred to use Sera most of the time.

I have long, dark brown, unruly hair, which I usually restrain in a ponytail or braid. Thanks to my Celtic ancestry, I have pale skin and green eyes - my friend Abbey describes them as witch’s eyes, and I’m never quite sure whether that’s a compliment or not, considering her extreme tastes. She dyes her hair bright red, has assorted tattoos and piercings and wears clashing colours and patterns, as befits a fashion design student.

We’re about the same size, so she often gives me her cast offs, which are a very welcome addition to my charity shop finds. Like most girls, I love clothes, but I can’t afford designer labels, and don’t think they’re worth the ridiculous prices anyway. I like quirky outfits – why wear boring clothes when you don’t have to? And at Art College it’s expected that you dress pretty outrageously, so I count myself lucky to have a friend like Abbey, who’s happy to share her eclectic wardrobe. She has the most wicked sense of humour, and loves to shock people with her liberated attitude.

As the train reached my stop, I stood up and hefted all my bags onto my shoulders, clutching the directions I’d printed out to find my way to the first house on my list.

I made my way out onto the platform, and headed for the escalator. As I reached the top and walked over to the exit barrier, I fumbled for my handbag, which had my pass in it, then panicked when I failed to locate it. I frantically searched through everything I was carrying, but it definitely wasn’t there.

No, no, no, please tell me I did not leave it on the train, I yelled. You stupid idiot!

Everything was in that bag – money, cards, phone, but worst of all, the memory stick with all my course work on it, which was irreplaceable. Tears pricked my eyes, but what would bursting into tears achieve?

Is this what you’re looking for?

I looked up to see the tall blonde guy from the train standing there, and I literally sagged with relief when I saw him holding out my large brown tasselled bag.

Yes! Thank you so much, you have just save my life, I exclaimed, as I heaved a huge sigh of relief, and went over to retrieve it.

When I saw you’d left it behind, I did try to tell you, but you didn’t hear me, he explained in a laid back drawl that screamed of middle class affluence. So I went after you, but lost sight of you in the crowds.

I can’t thank you enough. Practically my whole life is in that bag.

Ah, so what’s it worth to get it back? Blonde guy teased, as he kept hold of it.

My undying gratitude. Will that do? I reached over and grabbed back my bag.

Hmm, I’m not sure about that. How about a date instead?

I don't think so, I laughed. I don't go on dates with strangers. Cheeky sod.

I've just proved that I’m honest and trustworthy by returning your bag rather than stealing all your valuables.

You wouldn’t have found much of value, I can assure you, I scoffed.

I could just buy you a coffee if you prefer, we don't have to call it a date. You look pretty shaken up, so I think a shot of caffeine is definitely called for.

I told you. I don't go anywhere with strangers.

I’m not a stranger. I’m just a friend you haven't met yet.

Where on earth did you get that line from? I couldn’t help laughing.

My mate Toby let me borrow his book, ‘The World's Stupidest Chat-up Lines’.

I think you should give him his book back, it’s not helping you.

 You’re probably right, so let me just introduce myself. I’m Jamie. Now we’re not strangers, especially if you tell me your name.

Fine, I’m Sera, and I really am grateful you returned my bag, but I have to go or I’ll be late.

 Where are you headed, Sera? I live around here, so maybe I can point you in the right direction, Jamie offered.

It’s okay. I have directions. As I held up the papers, he snatched them away and annoyingly held them out of my reach as he studied them because he was so tall.

You’re looking at rooms to rent? Well, I can tell you straight away that you don’t want to live in this street, he told me, as he looked at the details of the first one. Not unless you’re a drug dealer.

Give them back. It’s none of your business, I told him angrily. The nerve of the guy, but he just ignored me as he continued.

And as for this next place – you don't look like a hooker to me.

I’m sure it’s not that bad, and I have to find somewhere in the area before term starts, so please just give me back my list.

This final one is probably the best of a bad bunch, but even so, it’s in a pretty rough area. I go past there, so I could come with you if you like.

I keep telling you I’ll be fine, and don't need your help. I can manage on my own.

You’re a student?

I nodded.

Me too, and I know we’ve only just met, but as luck would have it, there’s a room available in the house I live in, which is in a much nicer street. Why not take a look, see if it would suit?

I very much doubt it would be in my price range. So thanks for the thought, but no thanks.

Actually, the rent is pretty reasonable because it’s the attic room, so it’s no good for anyone taller than a midget. You’d be okay though, he winked, looking down at me. At five foot five, I’m average height, but Jamie must have been about six foot one or two, so I was short compared to him.

Thanks for the offer, but I’ll be fine. Now please, can I have my papers back? I glared at him, holding out my hand.

Okay, but I’ll put my address and phone number on here, in case you change your mind after the viewings. Jamie produced a pen from his pocket and quickly scribbled down his details. It’s all above board, nothing dodgy, and I know the landlord personally. It’s a decent house or I wouldn’t be living there. Anyway, let me know. Seriously.

I couldn’t help smiling at how keen he seemed. He did seem genuine and he had taken the trouble to return my bag. And as everything about him reeked of middle class money, I couldn’t imagine him living in a dump.

I’ll bear it in mind. And thank you again for returning my bag, you really did save my life, I smiled up at him, and was rewarded by a heart meltingly gorgeous smile back.

No doubt such a good looking guy had a whole string of girls to keep him occupied, while I didn't have time to even think about anything like that.

So I left him standing there as I hurried out of the station, and headed for the first house on my viewing list.

Chapter 2

Jamie

"Why the fuck didn't you think to get her number before she walked away, you total moron," I cursed as I stared at my mobile, willing it to ring as it lay there silently taunting me on the kitchen worktop. There’d been no phone call from Sera, and now I had no way of making contact.

I’d noticed the pretty girl sitting opposite me on the tube train, but it wasn’t until she looked up and I caught a glimpse of her amazing green eyes that I started to take notice. This girl really was something else, and I took full advantage of sitting opposite her to appreciate her sexy, long legs shown off by a short denim skirt. Her loose baggy top hid the rest of her figure, but I couldn’t imagine it would disappoint. Her long, glossy, raven coloured hair was in a messy, twisted knot, and as she glanced at me, my jaw might have slacked open a little bit. Wow. She was the full package, a total hot babe.

I tried flashing my best award winning smile at her, but she ignored me, cut me dead. ‘Not interested’ came over loud and clear, which intrigued me even more since I’m not used to being ignored, most chicks find my best smile hard to resist.

So when this girl left her bag behind, I seized the golden opportunity to go after her, even though it meant getting off the train a stop early.

She still blew me off when I managed to catch her up and tried to get a date, but at least I found out that she was a student, and that her name was Sera, and when I managed to get hold of the details of the places she was about to view, I was genuinely concerned. No nice girl would want live in those areas if she could avoid it, and Sera did seem a really nice girl, so that was when I had the brainwave of offering her the spare room in our house. I wasn’t really surprised when she turned it down, as we’d only just met.

Now I wished I’d insisted on going with Sera to the viewings. She probably didn't realize the difference being just one or two streets away could make, otherwise she might have been more receptive to my offer.

I was deep in my thoughts when the doorbell rang, and sighed as I went to open it, assuming it was Toby, one of my house mates.

For fucks sake, how many keys can one person lose…?

I was completely gobsmacked to find Sera standing there.

Sorry, is this a bad time? I hope you don't mind, only you did say…

No, no, not at all. Sorry, I just thought you were my housemate, he’s always losing his keys, I burbled as I stood there gawping. Sera was even more stunning than I remembered.

Did you mean it? About the room I mean. You were right about the ones I looked at, they were pretty awful. The third one would do at a push, but then I thought that as your address was only a couple of streets away, I’d call round, but if it was just a joke, I’ll go back and take the other room.

No, no, honestly it wasn’t a joke at all. Please, come in, and I’ll show you the room. I just about managed to reconnect my brain sufficiently to speak coherently. I just assumed you’d ring first.

As Sera picked her way through the messy pile of smelly trainers dumped by the door in the hallway of our Victorian end terrace house, I silently cursed that I hadn’t tidied up.

I haven't got much credit left on my phone, so I'm saving it for emergencies. But if calling in is problem… Sera frowned.

Not at all. You’ll just have to excuse the house being a bit messy .We’ve… umm… all been studying too hard to do much housework. This lame excuse was the best I could come up on the spur of the moment. Where would you like to start your tour?

The bedroom maybe? No point in looking any further if that doesn’t suit, Sera suggested, smiling at my flustered efforts to tidy things as we walked through the house.

Okay. As I told you, it’s the attic bedroom, so follow me. I led her upstairs to the first landing.

That’s my room, that one is Toby’s, and the smaller one to the right is Adam’s, but he spends most of his time at his girlfriend’s place. And that’s the main bathroom. I pointed out each room in turn. And the attic room is this way. It’s been vacant since Ollie dropped out of uni and left.

It’s just you three boys sharing?

Yeah, that’s right.

I led her up the second narrow set of stairs, bending my head as we reached the small landing, where the ceiling sloped down sharply.

There’s a small bathroom up here, but I’m not sure the shower works very well. You’d be welcome to use the bathroom downstairs if you preferred. Especially if you happened to forget to lock the door while you were showering.

The room has its own bathroom? Wow! Sera poked her head around the door.

Like I said, I wouldn’t get too excited, it’s not that great.

But still, it’s something I’ve not had before. And this is the bedroom? She nodded towards the other door.

That’s right.

Sera stepped into the room, which appeared quite large on first impression, but the sloping ceiling restricted access. There was a basic desk, a small double bed, a single wardrobe, and a wonky bookcase. The carpet was a nasty dingy red, but the walls were white which helped to compensate, plus the late afternoon sun was streaming in through the two large velux roof windows

Does it get the sun in here all day Sera queried, as she gazed up.

No idea, I shrugged.

It’s just that good light is helpful when I'm working on my course pieces, she explained. I'm doing Graphic Design at Central St Martin’s.

Ah, the arty type. We’re all at the London School of Economics, I explained.

Ugh. Number crunchers. She wrinkled her nose up disapprovingly.

Hey, don't say that like it’s a bad thing. I was more used to people being impressed . 

Sorry, but I always hated maths at school.

Well, I’ve never been interested in art, but I’d be willing to let you educate me, I offered hopefully. At least Sera seemed to like the room, so that was positive.

We’ll have to see about that. What’s the rest of the house like?

I’ll show you.

We went back downstairs to the lounge, which was dominated by our large, flat screen TV, which we’d clubbed together to buy to watch the rugby. Sera was more interested in the kitchen, and I was surprised when she closely examined the oven.

That’s surprisingly clean, she commented.

That’s because we never use it. No need. I pointed to all the discarded pizza boxes and take away containers by the bin.

"You never cook?" she raised her eyebrows.

Depends what you mean by cook. I do a pretty mean ready meal in the microwave, and Toby’s a dab hand with a pot noodle. Adam lets his girlfriend Chloe handle catering for him I think.

That’s terrible! Apart from being unhealthy, it’s such a waste of money, Sera argued, but I just shrugged.

If you lived here, you could show us how to cook some cheap nutritious meals, I suggested. You cook, we eat.

Oh no, I’m not falling for that one, Sera laughed.

Damn, it was worth a try, I smiled. So, what do you think? Would sharing with three blokes be a problem at all?

No, that wouldn’t be an issue.

So you’ll take the room? I asked hopefully.

Well, I do like it, but there are a couple of things.

Such as?

How would your house mates feel about me moving into your all-male environment?

They’d be totally cool about it, trust me.

And we haven't discussed the most important thing yet, which is how much the deposit and rent are. I could stretch to the top of my budget, but if it’s over that, then it’s just not possible.

Parents keeping you on a tight rein?

No, my parents are dead, so I have to live on my student loan plus whatever I can earn, and I already work as many hours as I can. That’s why I have to get my accommodation sorted today, I’ll be too busy after this.

I did some quick mental arithmetic, having seen how much the rent had been on the places she’d viewed. I just had to calculate how low I could make it without my brother kicking off.

Let’s sit down with a coffee and run through the figures. I'm sure we can work something out, I suggested to buy a bit more time, because there was no way I was going to let the gorgeous Sera leave until she’d agreed to move in.

Chapter 3

Seraphina

I tried to keep calm, so I wouldn’t be disappointed if I couldn’t afford the rent. But I could just see myself living in that quirky room, especially as it came with its own tiny shower room, which would undoubtedly benefit from a deep clean, but that didn’t bother me. Compared to other places I’d lived, this would be sheer luxury - if I could afford it.

Just as Jamie and I sat together at the kitchen table with our drinks, having formally introduced ourselves now, the front door slammed and another guy walked in. He had thick, dark brown hair, chocolate brown eyes, wasn’t as tall as Jamie, but was a much broader, stockier build.

Sorry, am I interrupting? he asked, staring at me.

No, come and join us. Hopefully this is our new housemate, Seraphina Jones, Jamie replied breezily, while studiously avoiding his house mate’s eye.

 Woah, she’s moving in with you? That was quick work, he said admiringly, as he continued to stare at me.

No, I meant that Sera is hopefully going to be taking the attic room.

 Really? What does the big guy have to say about this?

The big guy? I frowned.

Liam. Jamie’s older brother. The control freak who owns this place. Our landlord.

He’s away in New York on business at the moment, but he’ll be cool. He’s been nagging me about letting that room ever since Ollie left, but none of the guys were interested, they all said it was too small.

 Liam doesn’t know yet? This is going to be interesting. Toby raised his eyebrows. But I’m forgetting my manners. Toby Harris. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Seraphina, he smiled.

Likewise, Toby, and please, call me Sera. It’s not definite about the room anyway, we haven’t even discussed the deposit and rent, so if you think there’s going to be a problem with your brother….

There’ll be no problem with Liam, he’s just used to organising and controlling these matters, so he’ll be a little surprised I’ve got this sorted.

Liam likes control in all matters, Toby muttered, earning him a glare from Jamie.

If it’s going to cause any problems, maybe this isn’t such a good idea, I said, trying to hide my disappointment. I really wanted that room, especially after sleeping on Abbey's lumpy sofa all summer.

No. There won’t be any problem, just leave Liam to me, Jamie insisted.

Gladly, muttered Toby. He scares the hell out of me.

Before we go any further, can you tell me how much the deposit is? I wanted to get the facts straight before I got too excited.

Jamie looked over at Toby.

How much did we pay? Did we actually do the whole deposit thing?

Can’t remember. My dad probably sorted it out, Toby shrugged.

We’re a bit vague because Liam took care of all the details. He said it made more sense to buy this place as an investment, rather than shell out rent while I was at uni. He’s a bit of a financial genius, Jamie explained.

Must be, if he can afford to buy you a house like this. Just as I’d suspected, Jamie came from a comfortable, moneyed background. Of course he knew the landlord personally, it was his own brother.

Have you forgotten how he insisted on personally vetting each of us? Toby glanced at Jamie.

It’ll be fine. Trust me, Jamie insisted, looking rather uncomfortable. We can come to some arrangement about the deposit, and the rent will be around £500 a month. Is that within budget, Sera?

Toby barely masked his surprise, and I suspected Jamie kicked him under the table when I saw him wince.

Is that with bills on top? I was already at the top of my budget.

No, they’re included. Toby winced again as he glared at Jamie.

Great, I can just about manage that. I made a mental note to make sure I got this in writing before I moved in. Jamie seemed genuine enough, but I wanted everything to be legal and above board.

I didn’t want to count my chickens yet, but if things went according to plan, I might actually have somewhere half decent to live for a change this year, all because I’d left my bag on the train.

What a serendipitous piece of luck that had turned out to be.

Chapter 4

Liam

I was not best pleased when I found that Kimberley hadn’t got out of bed yet, when I returned from my morning workout and swim.

Come on. You know I need you out of here by ten at the latest. I pulled back the duvet and smacked her naked behind.

Don’t worry, Liam. There’s still plenty of time for fun and games, Kim purred, as she rolled over to give me a better view of her voluptuous, naked body.

Smiling, she slowly opened her legs and raised her knees, letting one hand wander down between her legs to start stroking herself, while the other teased the nipple of one of her large breasts.

No, that’s not our arrangement, Kim. Now come on, I insisted as I stood next to the bed. I found it irritating that she thought she could call the shots and order me around.  She might be a highly educated and intelligent woman, but before we began our arrangement she’d agreed she liked to be dominated and let the man take control.

Not one to give up easily, Kimberley pouted as she kneeled up, and then reached for the waist band of my jeans to pull me towards her.

I’m sure you’d enjoy one of my special good morning kisses, wouldn’t you? she whispered, as she looked up at me through her lashes. But in the harsh light of day, I felt repulsed by her smudged mascara, the dark roots of her bleached blonde hair, and the orange tinge of her fake tan, even though last night, she’d seemed the perfect fuck buddy.

I’d been seeing Kimberley for just over a month, and at first she’d seemed perfect. She willingly agreed that she was more than happy to have a no strings, no personal involvement, purely sexual arrangement between us. She agreed we’d sleep in separate rooms once we’d fucked in whatever way I chose, and that she’d leave well before my kid brother came over for Sunday lunch.

But of course it hadn’t lasted. Women just can’t help themselves, it seems. They always want to complicate things, get more involved, however clear I make it from the outset that it’s not an option. Even though I was always brutally honest about only wanting lots of great uncomplicated sex, women looked on me as a challenge, a man to be tamed and domesticated. I’d known the writing was on the wall for Kimberley when she’d suggested adding some cushions to make my place more homely.

For fuck’s sake – do I look like the kind of man who’d want cushions dotted around the place?

My modern riverside penthouse is just how I like it. Uncluttered and organised, like the rest of my life. The colour scheme is mostly white, with light wood furniture, the same as my office. No glaring colours to annoy or distract me.

Although still in my early thirties, numerous successful business ventures have made me a wealthy man. I had to grow up quickly and make some tough decisions when my father suddenly died after suffering a massive stroke when I was only nineteen. I was left with the choice of selling the ailing family business, or dropping out of university to take it over. I opted to put into practise what I would’ve been studying at university, and then worked my nuts off to turn the business around, diversifying into new sectors, ruthlessly divesting the company of anything unprofitable, leaving no room for sentiment.

I was no fool, I was well aware that my very comfortable lifestyle was now the main reason women like Kimberley fell over themselves to be my friend with benefits. I doubt they would’ve put up with my increasingly kinky demands otherwise, since I easily got bored and constantly sought new ways of sexual gratification.

Unlike my brother Jamie, I’m not what anyone would describe as handsome, especially as some wild teenage years left me with a few scars on my face. I wear my dark blond hair short and leave it naturally spiky, unlike my vain little brother who spends hours achieving his supposedly effortless look. Hopefully he’ll grow out of it in time.

I said no, Kim. Now leave it, just go and have your shower, I insisted, as I gripped her hand with its long red talons before she could undo my jeans. I really wasn’t tempted, even though she usually gave great head.

Kim finally got the hint, and flounced off towards the shower. But afterwards she came and found me in the kitchen.

I don't see what your problem is about your little brother meeting me, so I thought I could prepare lunch for both of you, she suggested. Now that she was fully made up again, she looked a lot better, although looking at the time, it had taken her ages. She was wearing a clingy black wrap dress to showcase her ample curves.

No. It would only complicate things. And it’s getting late, he’ll be here soon. I need you to leave. Now. Could I make it any clearer? It was definitely time to move on from Kimberley and seek out a new, less clingy partner.

Okay, okay, just let me have a cup of coffee first. Kim made her way over to the espresso machine.

I sighed in frustration at the obvious delaying tactic. Good manners held me back from suggesting she got herself a coffee from Starbucks on her way home, but this was definitely the last time she would be staying over in my place.

***

Annoyingly, Jamie arrived just in time to see Kimberley leaving.

Why didn't you introduce us? Jamie smirked, having practically drooled over Kim’s cleavage when she’d leaned over him to get her handbag.

My brother was fully aware that I wasn’t interested in forming any kind of a committed relationship, and that I used a fuck buddy arrangement to take care of my needs.

No point. You won’t be meeting her again.

Bored already? How long has it been? A month? Six weeks would be an all-time record.

None of your business.

Was she okay with all that bondage shit you like? Did she like being spanked? Jamie asked with a cocky smirk.

Like I said. None of your business.

Seriously, I'm interested. It’s useful research.

I looked over at my younger brother as he leaned against the kitchen worktop and watched while I prepared lunch. Agnieszka, my housekeeper, always made sure my fridge was well stocked for the weekend.

Since Jamie had been old enough to fuck, I’d done my best to make sure he practised safe sex, and gave him the benefit of my experience wherever appropriate.

Women respect a man who takes control; they like it, even if they say they don't. I only give them what they secretly crave, but I never push things further than they’re willing to let me.

But how do you know how far that is?

Experience, mostly. And of course, picking the right woman in the first place. One who knows exactly what’s she’s letting herself in for and is up for a good hard fuck. I’m always totally upfront, I never mislead a woman by offering soppy romance, but I do ensure she experiences the best orgasms of her life. It’s nothing personal, it’s just a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Haven’t you ever felt anything more for any woman? Haven’t you ever fallen in love?

Love? What is love? Does it even exist? Or is it just a consumerist myth perpetuated to sell flowers and chocolates? I scoffed, before noticing the sheepish expression on Jamie’s face, as he stared down at his hands.

Oh for fuck’s sake! Don't tell me you think you’re in love? Who is she? Come on, spit it out, I shook my head in exasperation.

Jamie looked over at me.

I don’t know if I’m in love, but I’ve met this girl, and I can't stop thinking about her, he confessed.

I wouldn’t worry. Once you’ve fucked her senseless a few times, you’ll soon get her out of your system, I chuckled and clapped him on the back.

This is different. She’s different. She’s really pretty, and a lovely person. She’s amazing, actually, but the thing is, she’s not interested in me. Not in that way. She’s friendly, but she’s knocked me back every time I've asked her out, or tried to get anywhere with her. She makes excuses, says she’s working, that she hasn’t got time.

 This girl is very clever. She knows most men want what they can't have. The thrill of the chase, that’s all this is. Back right away from her, there are plenty more gorgeous, sexy women to choose from. As long as you always practise safe sex, there’s no harm in playing the field, so why go after a high maintenance, difficult bitch who expects you to chase after her? Take my advice and don’t bother with this one anymore, I told him.

Well, that’s kind of difficult. Jamie squirmed in his seat uncomfortably.

I stared at my little brother. Something was going on, something must have happened while I’d been away on business. I fucking hated not being kept in the picture, and I fucking hated surprises being sprung on me.

Why is it difficult? I asked suspiciously.

Well, ever since Ollie dropped out and his empty room hasn’t been bringing in any rent, you’ve been nagging me to do something about it, right?

Yes, and…?

I got us a new tenant.

And exactly who is this new tenant?

It’s Seraphina. The girl that I like. And she’s a really good tenant, no trouble at all. But now you see why I can't really avoid seeing her.

I could feel my temper rising. Since both our parents were dead, I’d stepped up to become the parent figure, but perhaps I’d spoilt my younger brother, determined that he wouldn’t miss out on his youth the way that I’d had to.

I’d made sure Jamie took a worthwhile degree at a decent university here in London, where I could keep a close eye on him. I’d bought a comfortable house for him to live in, rather than rented accommodation, plus I’d given him a healthy allowance so he wouldn’t have to compromise his studies by working. I’d also provided a car – not the sporty model he wanted maybe, but still a brand new VW Golf. I’d paid the extortionate insurance cover and all his maintenance costs. I’d also promised that as long as he ended up with a decent degree, I’d fund a year off travelling, before giving him a position in the family business.

But it seemed Jamie was turning out to be a soft touch, lacking a hardnosed business sense.  

What checks did you run on this girl, to make sure she’s solvent, before her name was linked to your address? You could end up with all sorts of debt collection agencies pouncing on you otherwise. Did you get her deposit and three months’ rent in advance as security? Did you take up any references for her? Did it even occur to you that having a female in the house would upset the status quo? Why do you think I insisted on interviewing all the potential tenants?

Jeez, Liam, lighten up will you? I know you like to micro manage everything, but isn’t the fact that I believe she’s a decent person good enough? Sera’s got it really hard, she’s all on her own, no family to support her. And some rent money coming in is better than none. That room is really hard to let with the low ceiling, but she’s happy with it. So no, I didn't insist on the deposit and rent up front, as Sera has to support herself through uni. She works really long hours just to earn enough money to live on, on top of studying.

My heart bleeds. The bitch has really done a number on you, hasn’t she? She’s got you thinking with your dick, not your brain. You're not a fucking charity, last time I checked. The tone of my voice was icy cold as I tried to keep my temper in check.

It’s not like that. Why do you have to be so cynical? Jamie bleated.

Because that’s the way of the world, little brother, as you will find out soon enough. I take it you met her at uni, that she’s a student at LSE like you?

No, she’s an Arts student actually, and I met her by chance on the tube.

Give me strength. I looked up to the heavens in exasperation. She’s not even doing a decent degree. She’s doing an airy fairy, waste of space arts course that will lead precisely nowhere. No doubt she’ll end up working in a supermarket checkout, that’s if she’s lucky enough to get a job at all.

She’s doing Graphic Design, which is commercially useful and should lead to a good job. I’ve seen some of her work, and she’s very talented, Jamie stubbornly insisted.

Well, since you’ve already let her move in, you can take full responsibility for any shit that develops. It’ll be your problem, not mine. Maybe this will open your eyes to the reality of things, I told him.

Hopefully this would prove to be a valuable lesson for Jamie. Maybe he needed to learn the hard way about falling for sob stories, and dealing with this girl would give him the wakeup call he needed.

Sure, but could I just ask you to get Andrew to sort a couple of problems? I’d forgotten the radiator in that attic room doesn’t work, the window is broken, and the shower never really gets hot.

Andrew is my facilitator who sorts any maintenance issues for the properties I own. For a fee, he arranges the necessary tradesman to fix whatever the issue is, and ensures the job is completed satisfactorily.

I’ll certainly give you Andrew’s number. You can pay his fee, as well as whoever comes out to fix the problem.

But I can't afford that on my allowance, and you’re a fucking millionaire! Jamie protested.

I just raised my eyebrows, and gave my brother a cool smile.

Jamie sighed.

Okay, I get it, Liam. You’re happy to spend a small fortune on a new car for yourself, but you’re not prepared to help a decent, hardworking person who’s been dealt a shit hand in life, meaning she’ll have to put up with a freezing room and cold showers.

That’s about the size of it, I agreed. You made this arrangement, so as far as I’m concerned, you are now her landlord. I’m handing all responsibility over to you, since I don’t have a contract with her.

When did you get to be such a cold hearted bastard, Liam?

When I had to start living in the real world, Jamie.

Chapter 5

Seraphina

"No Jamie this morning?" I asked Toby as we sat at the kitchen table while I took a break from my studies. Sundays were good for getting on with my course work since I worked in the restaurant on Saturdays, as well as most evenings, which didn’t leave much time for a social life. But that was okay, I didn't see the point of spending money I didn't have to get inebriated, and then worry about embarrassing pictures appearing on social media.

He’s having his usual Sunday lunch with the big guy, now he’s back from his business trip, Toby explained.

Why do you call him that? Is he massively obese or something? I asked curiously.

Hardly, Toby laughed. Liam’s just very tall and well built. He’s also super fit, he gets up at the crack of dawn every day to work out.

I grimaced. I wasn’t into big macho guys, I felt more comfortable with sensitive men, the kind in touch with their feminine side.

But it’s not only that, Toby continued. He’s a self-made millionaire who just has this presence that makes everyone sit up and take notice when he walks into a room. If you work for him, when he says ‘jump’, you say ‘how high’, you know?

Ugh, he sounds domineering and unpleasant. Does he have a long suffering wife who has to put up with him? I shuddered.

No, Liam’s not the marrying type.

Oh? Why’s that? I asked.

Jamie says his brother doesn’t believe in romance and relationships, he prefers a friends with benefits kind of arrangement.

You mean he has fuck buddies?

Correct, so according to Jamie, Liam spends his free time having lots of kinky sex with busty blondes, Toby winked.

What a delightful sounding man-whore, I commented.

In his defence, he’s very good to Jamie, and they’re very close, despite Liam being ten years older. But he is undoubtedly a control freak who likes to keep a tight rein on everything.

 You said he interviewed you before moved in?

Toby nodded.

In that case, is he going to want to interview me? Could he throw me out?

I was settled in the house now, and it was all working out fine. I got on with the guys, I could walk to uni and to my job. I could shut myself away in my room to get on with my studies. It was by far the best place I’d lived in at uni, and I didn't relish the thought of having to leave.

I don't think it’ll come to that, Toby reassured me. Although I do think Liam will be surprised that Jamie has actually used his initiative and done something without seeking his approval first. About bloody time he stood up to him actually.

I hope you’re right, I don't have time to go searching for new digs. Perhaps he’d be okay about me staying if I told him it’s probably only for a few months anyway, since I've applied for the exchange programme next year.

Really? How definite is it? Toby asked.

I've been told I stand a good chance of being short listed, but that it would really help if I could get a design internship with a decent company, to add some experience to my application, I explained. So I applied to loads of companies, but unfortunately there are hundreds of applicants for every place, so it’s really hard to get anything. Plus you have to be prepared to work for nothing, and some companies even expect you to pay them, which wouldn’t be possible for me.

Maybe Jamie could speak to his brother about getting you an internship with Starr Capital Ventures, Toby suggested.

Thanks, but I can’t see that happening and I don’t think I’d fit into that kind of a corporate company anyway.

Why not? SCV would be a really good name to have on your application.

Don’t worry, I’m sure I’ll get something sorted. I really didn’t feel comfortable about asking Jamie to pull strings with his awful brother, so I swiftly changed topics. Tell me, does Adam ever spend any time here or have I scared him off?

Blame his girlfriend, Chloe. She keeps him on a very short leash.

Oh, I see.

I’d met Adam just twice, and both times Chloe had draped herself around him possessively, clearly staking her claim on him, and from the evil looks she sent my way, it was obvious we were never going to be BFFs.

That’s why I preferred sharing with guys. At least they were upfront, with no snide looks or bitchy behaviour, you just had to be crystal clear that there was no chance of getting you into bed, which was why I studiously ignored Jamie as he wandered around half naked in his low slung track bottoms. I don’t think he was used to getting knocked back, so it probably dented his pride that I could resist his impressive body.

So, you and Jamie? Toby casually asked, as he took a swig of coffee.

What about us? What’s Jamie been saying?

Nothing. But he seems pretty keen on you, so I just wondered…

…if I’d succumbed to his charms? I quirked an eyebrow.

Something like that, Toby admitted.

We’re friends. Nothing more, I insisted.

Don't you fancy him? He doesn’t usually have any trouble getting girls.

Well, I'm not like those sad girls, begging for his favours, I said indignantly.

Can I just ask, your friend that helped you move in, the one with the red hair?

You mean Abbey?

"Yeah. Can I just ask if she’s a very close friend? I couldn’t help noticing the LGBT sticker on her car…" he looked at me expectantly.

Of course. He wanted to know if I was gay, which would explain why I was resistant to Jamie’s charms. Maybe I should let him think I was gay, which wasn't true…at least I didn't think it was, but I had wondered if that was why I’d never felt comfortable letting a guy go further than kissing. I always froze when they started touching me, which was why I was still a virgin at the age of twenty one. Maybe it was just because I’d never met anyone who interested me enough, but I certainly wasn’t about to confide any of this to Toby.

"Abbey’s just a good friend, Toby.

But if you lived together and she’s a lesbian…

We weren’t a couple, and for the record, Abbey describes herself bisexual.

Ah, she likes it both ways, he smirked. Bet she’d be great in a threesome.

None of my business, I held my hand up, not wishing to discuss Abbey’s wilder exploits, which made me feel like a boring little mouse in comparison. Anyway, tea break over. I’d best get back to my studies.

Chapter 6

Jamie

As I lay in bed staring up at the ceiling, Sera’s room was directly above me, and I wondered what she was doing. Studying probably, because that’s all she did when she wasn’t working, meaning she never had time to go out with me. And since I really liked her, and was even prepared to try a proper relationship with her, my lack of progress was so fucking frustrating.

Liam said I only wanted what I couldn’t have, and that once I’d got her into bed the novelty would soon wear off, but since he hadn’t even met Sera and didn't believe in relationships, what did he know?

Sera spent hours and hours on her stupid course work. Of course I had to study too, but as economics had minimal course work, I got by with cramming for exams at the last minute, just coasting the rest of the time.

I’d hoped to get closer to Sera at Christmas, but since she’d worked at the restaurant right up to the last minute, then disappeared with Abbey for the rest of the break, I never got the chance. My next plan was to have a house party for my birthday, where I could hopefully get her to loosen up and chill out after a few drinks, but in the meantime I used some information Toby had passed on to try and help her out.

Have you had any luck with an internship yet? Toby told me it would help with your exchange programme application.  I was in her room trying to fix her radiator, but I wasn’t having much luck. I felt bad that I hadn’t been able to persuade my brother to get it fixed, but he was sticking to his decision to let me deal with any issues. I’d fiddled around unsuccessfully with the radiator key I’d found in the man drawer in the kitchen, but the radiator remained disappointingly cold. Unfortunately, I was short of funds due to travelling around Europe last summer, so I couldn’t afford to get someone in, but at least I’d managed to fix the broken window with some cardboard and masking tape, which didn't look very pretty, but did stop most of the draught.

No, I think I’m going to have to admit defeat, she sighed. All the places will have gone to people with connections who can get strings pulled. And anyway, they’d take one look at me and write me off.

I’m sure that wouldn’t be the case, I frowned.

Jamie, like it or not, people judge you on your looks. Fact. Sometimes it can work in your favour, other times not so much. Let’s face it, you only offered me this room after you were attracted by my looks.

I couldn’t deny she had a point.

 I have no trouble getting a job in a bar, or as a waitress, but I know I’m going to struggle to be taken seriously as a graphic designer, however good I am. Which is why a decent internship would help as evidence of my ability.

I suppose I can see what you’re saying, I conceded.

It’s the way of the world, like it or not, Sera shrugged.

What if I could get my brother to help? Maybe he would give you a short term placement if I asked him. Starr Capital would be a great company to have on your CV, I offered.

That’s what Toby said too, but I don't think it’s a good idea. I wouldn’t fit in to that type of company, Sera sighed.

But if it were a means to an end, if it got you on the exchange programme, surely you should consider it? I persisted.

There’s no point thinking about it Jamie, because it’s not going to happen. No disrespect, but from what I’ve heard, your brother is exactly the type of person who wouldn’t consider someone like me. Now I really need to get on with this piece I’m working on, so can you leave sorting out the radiator? I’m not bothered about it, I’m fine with things as they are.

I left her to her studies, but despite what she said, I was going to speak Liam about getting her an internship. I did genuinely want to help her, because I saw how hard she worked and really thought she deserved a chance. However, I also hoped that if I did manage to persuade him to help, maybe Sera would be so grateful that I’d finally get somewhere with her.

Sera was such a great person. She cooked a meal for us every Thursday, horrified that we usually survived on fast food and take outs. I think she suspected we were covering some bills for her, and this was her way of paying us back. It was great to relax together with a few beers, it was just a shame that I never managed to get her on her own.

Sera continued to use her little shower room, even though the water never got more than lukewarm at best. I was disappointed not to have caught her using the main bathroom while naked or in her underwear, but I hoped to see more of her gorgeous body eventually.

While in her room, I'd seen her underwear drying on the airer, so I knew she wore tiny lacy thongs and cute little boy shorts. I’d be happy to see her wearing either, before removing them as we fell into bed, then having amazing sex in every possible position for the entire night. My favourite fantasy was her on top, watching her tits jiggling as she did all the work.

These thoughts kept me happily occupied as I stared up at the ceiling, thinking of her in the room above.

***

The evening of my birthday party arrived. I’d invited everyone we knew, and since an open house with free booze and food was obviously irresistible, hordes turned up. Sera was helping with the catering, and as she busied herself in the kitchen, I gave her a glass of wine.

Come on, Sera! I know you don’t usually drink, but it’s my birthday, so let your hair down and get in the party mood.

Fine, just one small glass mind, she smiled. Abbey should be here soon, it’ll be so great to catch up with her. She had a really beautiful smile, and I wished I saw it more often, instead of the worried frown she often wore.

She was wearing a short halter neck dress in a shade of green that matched her amazing eyes. I kept staring at her eyes and then her naked back, and then those sexy long legs, unable to make up my mind which I found more fascinating. As she was wearing high heels, her sexy legs won out in the end. I wanted to run my hand all the way up those legs, and under that tiny dress. Maybe she was wearing one of her tiny lace thongs that I could easily slip off. I swallowed hard. All in good time. I kept surreptitiously topping up her glass of wine, so she was a already a little drunk by the time her friend arrived.

Abbey! It’s so good to see you, Sera shrieked, as she hugged her friend, then went off arm in arm with her as they caught up on gossip.

Toby and I watched their interaction with interest. He’d found out that Abbey was bisexual, so we were both curious. Most guys fantasize about having a threesome, and now there might be a chance to act it out. However, as I hadn’t even managed to kiss Sera yet, I was getting way ahead of myself.

Toby wasted no time moving in on Abbey, who was all over him like a rash as they danced together, so I gave him the thumbs up. He winked back, then nodded his head in the opposite direction.

I turned to see Sera dancing, the wine having unleashed her inner party animal. She ran her hands through her long, wild hair as she gyrated to the beat, her eyes closed, and her short dress riding up to reveal her long legs. I was spell bound, as were all the guys in the room.

I went over and pulled her to me.

Great music, Jamie. Did you pick the playlist? she shouted over the load music .

Yeah, that was me. I draped her arms around my neck to use my best dirty dancing moves. It felt so fucking good to have her tits pressed up against me as I gripped her sexy little bottom.

Sera, I’ve wanted you for so long, I murmured, kissing her neck while we moved together, grinding my hips to let her feel my hard-on.

It’s okay, Babe, I whispered. Just relax, let go and enjoy yourself.

Then I kissed Sera, and she tasted of wine and strawberries, a delicious and intoxicating mix as our tongues tentatively started mingling together. I gradually manoeuvred us into the relative privacy of the hall, pushing her against the wall as I deepened our kiss. I ran my hand up her leg, aching to get my cock out and desperate for a fuck after all this time. But then Sera broke off our kiss.

Jamie, wait a minute, she pleaded.

Let’s go upstairs where we won't be disturbed.

Of course she’d prefer somewhere more discreet to take things to the next level, so I led Sera up to my bedroom, slamming the door firmly shut behind us. I’d tidied my room and made my bed in hopeful anticipation, and now I was about to my best birthday present.

You are so beautiful, I whispered, kicking off my shoes and socks, and pulling my T shirt over my head, before I started kissing her again. I held her against my chest, running my fingertips over the silky skin of her bare back, and I couldn’t wait to get her naked to feel the rest of her bare skin against mine.

Jamie, I’m not sure… she murmured.

It’s okay, I’ve got protection, I reassured her. Always practise safe sex. Never take a risk. Always use a good quality condom. Never get caught out, always keep a plentiful supply. My brother had drummed this into me countless times, so I always had a box of condoms in my bedside drawer.

As we started kissing again, I pushed her hair aside to nuzzle her neck and then felt for her zipper, groaning at the thought of seeing her naked for the first time.

Then I felt Sera tense up and start to pull away.

Jamie, I’m not sure I can do this.

Hey, it’s okay, it’ll be a really great fuck, I promise, I whispered as I pulled her closer again. Although since it’s been a while, it might be a bit quick, you know?

No, I don’t. That’s the trouble, Sera sighed.

What do you mean? I asked breathlessly.

I’ve never done this before, and I thought I could but….

"Are you saying you haven’t ever…?"

She was a virgin? Not when she was nearly twenty two, surely?

I’ve never had sex. I'm a an inexperienced virgin, she confirmed. She sank down on the edge of the bed and hid her face in her hands. I sat next to her and put my arm around her.

"You’re the closest I’ve got, Jamie. I really thought

Reviews for The Starr Series

[Liz · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Not sure what book the other reviewer was talking about as it doesn't relate to this book at all! I really enjoyed this erotic love story that has lots of twists and turns that kept me interested.

[Aprilyn Ferrer · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

The only time I had feelings for this book was when I was reading the last part, The Eulogy. Other than that, it was really a struggle finishing this book. The 'flashbacks' can often be confusing and most of the book are just written in conversations.