Only His Touch, Part Two: The Untouched Series, #5

By Lilly Wilde

The pain of deceit was fresh, but love and desire overruled everything else. Now, Aria and Aiden face their greatest challenge yet. 
Aria Cason's life took an unexpected turn when she reconnected with Aiden Raine, the man who awakened a pure and undeniable love she'd thought was lost forever. Aria's love for him burns deep, yet he still pushes for more—the total surrender of her heart. When a painful memory becomes her guiding light, she questions if a happily ever after really exists for a girl who never wanted one. 

After stepping away from his birthright, Aiden's need to protect his new family becomes his top priority. Fragile bonds are soon stretched to the breaking point as his need for vengeance threatens to destroy the very thing he's come to value most. When his unyielding determination starts to push Aria away, he presents her with a challenge that will test them both. 

Will the searing passion that reunited this couple keep them together, or will it burn them to ash? 

Ties will be broken. Lies will become the truth. Aria and Aiden's heart-wrenching story continues in the fifth book of The Untouched Series, Only His Touch, Part Two.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BGF Publishing
• Release date: Aug 28, 2018
• ISBN: 9781310502637

Book preview

Chapter One

My eyes fluttered open as his hold tightened around my waist. If I had to describe paradise, it would be this, starting every day exactly like this—wrapped in Aiden’s arms, enveloped in his scent and surrounded with his love. I took in a deep breath and sighed, bathing my insides with our essence and basking in the afterglow of the previous night. It had been an enchanting evening—one I tucked away in that special place that belonged to only Aiden and me.

Aiden had proposed last night... and I’d accepted. And after an impromptu celebration with his family, we came home and engaged in a little celebration of our own. Aiden had swept me into his arms, carried me upstairs and made sweet gentle love to me. It was rare that we had the patience to slow our pace and savor each moment, but when we did, it was the complete giving and receiving of love on its purest level. It was a reminder of how perfect we are together—of how Aiden was uniquely designed, just for me.

And now, the morning after, I’m snuggled in bed with my fiancé replaying every detail. Fiancé! Aria Cason has a fiancé. And the proof is the insanely large piece of jewelry on the ring finger of my left hand. I stared at the gorgeous diamond, its brightness rivaling that of the sun. It was nothing short of exquisite. A slow smile spread across my lips as I studied the custom design of my engagement ring. It really happened. I’m engaged to Aiden Raine.

Did you say yes because of the ring? Aiden teased and kissed my shoulder.

Mmm. That voice. Even with the rasp of sleep, the resonance of his velvet tone clenched my insides. I was absolutely positive that his effect on me was something I’d never get used to. As a matter of fact, I didn’t want to. Still smiling, I turned to face him. I said yes because I’m crazy in love with you. How long have you been awake?

Not very, he replied.

I lost myself in his eyes as visions of the previous evening flashed in my head. Last night... I can’t believe it happened.

Second thoughts?

Once the shock wears off, I’ll probably freak out, but for now, I’m the happiest, most content woman on the planet. Not a single one.

Good, he said, sweeping my hair to the side and pressing his lips to my skin. So when are you going to marry me?

I giggled at his excitement. Can I have at least twenty-four hours to be engaged?

Aiden searched my face, his expression serious. You’ve said yes. I don’t see any reason to wait.

What’s the rush? It’s not like I’m pregnant and you’re marrying me to protect my virtue. That ship has sailed—Lyric is proof of that.

He touched the tip of my nose, and then graced it with a chaste kiss. I just don’t want to wait.

Let’s focus on getting moved first, then we can discuss dates, I suggested. How’s that?

As far as I’m concerned, we can move today and get married tomorrow.

Oh, you, I said, surprisingly delighted by his over eagerness. I’m flattered by your haste to take me off the market, Mr. Raine, but I think I want a wedding. And I’d like my sisters to be a part of it and most importantly, I want Lyric to have something to look back on when he’s older.

Aiden nodded his agreement, his gaze intense on my face. It’s just so easy for me to be selfish when it comes to you, but if it’s a wedding you want, then a wedding you shall have. I want you to have everything you want—whatever makes you happy.

The look in his eyes didn’t support his words. What are you worried about? I asked.

Nothing.

If your rush is because you think I’ll change my mind, you’re wrong... I won’t. I love you, and I’m amazingly happy, babe.

He kissed my cheek, and then smiled, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. Come. Let’s get showered and dressed. We need to get these Boston plans underway.

* * * * *

After a shower that evolved into more than its intended purpose, we dried ourselves, donned matching robes and headed to the kitchen for cups of coffee and tea. I was going on and on about the previous evening, especially about the shock of his mother’s acceptance, but Aiden had fallen uncharacteristically quiet. I wanted to ask the reason but suspecting I already knew, I figured it was best I didn’t.

As I moved around the kitchen, I couldn’t help but notice his over attentiveness. Not that I didn’t enjoy his prolonged gazes, but there was something behind the furtive glances that worried me. It reminded me of his behavior after our first visit to Seducente—he’d been in quiet observance then, too, ready to curtail any sign of my unease or of my tendency to run.

Sitting at the counter over warm beverages, mixed fruit and slices of toast, we laid out plans for the day. Aiden had a teleconference and three out-of-office meetings, and I’d be outlining some key projects for Raine Publishing House. Given our work schedules, we decided to wait until later to iron out details on our move to Boston.

As we made our way upstairs, he asked how I intended to deploy my strategic plan for RPH, and I gave him a rundown of the very ambitious objectives for the upcoming year, pleased when he nodded his approval. He didn’t bring up the topic I was sure he would, so neither did I. And after feeding Lyric, we spent some time as Mommy and Daddy, and then later returned to our bedroom to get dressed.

As Aiden prepared to leave, he pulled me into his arms. I miss you already, he said, his hands moving over my shoulders, then slowly down my back until he’d grasped my behind. Why don’t you come with me to work today?

What about your meetings?

No reason you can’t be present for those.

Wait. Which meetings are we referring to? For Raine Industries or for one of your foundations?

Does it matter? he asked.

I had a busy day ahead of me and so did Aiden, but it was obvious he didn’t want me out of his sight for any prolonged measure of time. I didn’t know whether to go along with it to reassure him, or just flat out tell him no, then remind him of what he’d asked of me—what we’d asked of each other—to trust in the strength of our relationship.

Babe, you know I love you, and despite the fact I didn’t answer right away, I’m happy I said yes. Nothing is going to change that. I’m staying. I cupped his handsome face and stared into the depths of his emerald eyes. You’re stuck with me.

Can I get that in writing?

He was smiling, but I knew he was serious.

You’ll have it in writing soon enough. I eased from his embrace to search for the diamond earrings he’d given me at Christmas.

Aiden followed me to the bureau, stopping when he was only inches away. You know... I’m actually surprised you said yes.

He was no more surprised than I was. Stop the presses! Media alert. Aiden Raine displays self-doubt. The world is coming to an end, I teased.

But you’re glad you did? he asked, ignoring my sarcastic taunts.

Of course I am.

And you’re happy?

Yes. Extremely. How could I not be? The man of my dreams is dying to marry me.

And no matter what, you’re staying... right?

I stopped searching the jewelry box for the second earring and turned to face him. Although he exuded the same calm presence that was his norm, he was anything but, and my assurances hadn’t registered at all. He was still worried I’d run.

Chapter Two

Aiden and I were seated on the floor of the home office with two empty wine glasses and an 1811 bottle of Chateau d’Yquem between us. We’d poured over dozens of blueprints for our Boston home like two college kids cramming for final exams. Although anxious to complete this project, Aiden was painfully meticulous about every detail. And to be honest it was becoming such a task that my excitement was gradually transitioning to mental exhaustion. We’d managed to narrow down ten of the kitchen and nursery options to five, which for us, was huge progress. Although each design offered everything we wanted, Aiden still saw the need for necessary additions.

Exhaling a sigh, I lifted the near empty bottle and poured the last of the wine into our glasses when a faint knock at the door diverted my attention. Glancing up and expecting Dianna, my brows scrunched when I saw Aiden’s mother Sienna standing in the doorway.

Forgive me for intruding. I would’ve phoned, but Aiden hasn’t been accepting my calls as of late, so I took a chance and came over unannounced. I was hoping I could speak with you, she said, her tone apprehensive—very much unlike the Sienna I was accustomed to.

I glanced at Aiden, surprised by the abrupt change in his expression. He’d shifted from calm to agitated in a measure of seconds.

What is it, Mother? he asked.

Actually, I’m glad you’re both here, she said, her gaze tracking over to me. As this concerns you as well, Aria.

I looked back at Aiden, his eyes were on his mother, and he appeared none too pleased.

For the love of God, what’s happening now? Please come in, Sienna, I offered.

Thank you, Aria, she said, gracefully stepping into the room.

My eyes crawled over the Raine matriarch—the textbook definition of a billionaire mogul’s wife. She moved as though the world was hers and from where she stood, it was. She was picture-perfect—each dark strand of hair was in place, parted in the middle, and pulled into an impeccable knot in the back. And as usual, her makeup was flawless. She was dressed in a stylish gray pantsuit and cream-colored heels. A string of pearls fell right above the collar of her cream silk blouse. Other than the necklace and pearl stud earrings, a wedding ring was her only jewelry. Yes, Sienna Raine wore elite and wealthy extremely well.

If this is about Lyric appearing in that charity show of yours, the answer is no, Aiden said, his voice firm as he moved to the chair behind his desk. And I’d appreciate if you’d refrain from asking about ridiculous things like that in the future.

Sienna’s lips fell into a frown, her spirit deflating as she took in her son’s demeanor. I understand, she replied and took a seat. That was only part of the reason for my visit.

And the other? Aiden demanded, making zero attempt to hide his annoyance.

Sienna’s mouth opened into a perfect ‘o’, giving her face the look of a question mark.

What the hell had happened between last night and now?

Although clearly taken aback by the harshness of Aiden’s tone, Sienna quickly recovered and disregarded his impudence. Well... I know you have a certain level of resentment toward me. You always have, and I can’t help but notice it’s become rather blatant as of late. What have I done? And what can I do to make amends?

Sienna appeared almost vulnerable, as though she may break down in tears at any moment. This is not something I need to see. Maybe you two should speak alone, I suggested.

Aiden looked at me with a subtle shake of his head. You’re not leaving, he said, then turned to Sienna. There’s nothing you can do, Mother. What’s done is done.

"Would you be so kind as to tell me what is done, so I can at least make an attempt at reparations?"

Aiden replied with a condescending sneer. How much time do you have?

I spun around to face him, shocked by the coldness in his voice. Aiden, don’t be so cruel. Talk to her, I encouraged.

He tossed the papers he’d been holding onto his desk and reared back in his chair. Aria, you know as well as I do, this is pointless.

Please, I said. For Lyric’s sake.

Very well, he replied and drew in a deep breath as he met Sienna’s gaze. Mother, I’ll only address the two most recent offenses, because I doubt you’ll willingly acknowledge the others.

You’re very angry with me, she said. But last night, and even during the holidays, you were more than cordial, so, I’m at a loss as to what’s happened.

That made two of us. From time to time, Aiden’s aversion to Sienna’s ways subtly slipped, but he’d quickly self-correct, then placate her... at least to a certain degree. I didn’t particularly care for his enabling tendencies when it came to his mother, but this hard-nosed approach wasn’t exactly appealing either.

Both last night and the holidays were for the sake of Aria and my son. Those were special moments. And when Aria looks back on them, she’ll remember them with fondness. She deserves that. My son deserves that.

So you were pretending? she asked.

I was doing what Connor Raine’s offspring have been reared to do. Aiden stared at his mother, bitterness fueling his words. I set it all aside for the sake of the family.

Sienna was quiet for several long seconds. I see, she finally said, fingering the pearls at her neck as her gaze moved between Aiden and me. It seemed as though we were actually that family we depict on our Christmas cards. Obviously, I was wrong. It would appear we have some healing to do. And since we’re having a wedding soon, it is my hope that your nuptials will bring us all closer. So if there is even a slight chance of resolving this conflict, I would like to try.

I’ve made no secret of my aversion for your support of my father, Aiden said. I don’t know why I expected anything different from him... but you?

It’s true; I didn’t use my best judgment, and if I could go back and choose differently, please believe me when I say I would. I never should have let Connor convince me to go along with his idea of what was best for our grandson. I’ve just been going along with everything he’s wanted for so many years. I’ve let him make the final call on most decisions, even those that relate to my own children. I know that’s no excuse, but please know I’m genuinely remorseful.

She’d been conditioned to her role—to be the silent woman she’d once told me I needed to be for Aiden. I couldn’t understand how any woman could belittle herself that way, to be nothing more than an arm piece. That’s something I couldn’t do or be to any man. As my eyes raked over her, I felt a deep sorrow.

I want to be the person I should have been to you... to all of my children.

Don’t you think it’s a little too late to learn how to be a mother?

Aiden! she gasped. Your father and I didn’t raise you to be so disrespectful and—

Don’t say that! Aiden snapped, slamming a palm against the wood of his desk, and then pointing a finger at her. We both know you and Dad didn’t raise me. You were all too eager to hand off that responsibility to someone else.

Her frame became rigid. Is this the part where you throw Dianna in my face again? Aiden, why do you say such things to me?

I’m only stating the truth.

"Just because she helped clean some of your scrapes and read you a few bedtime stories, that does not make her your mother. I’m your mother! That woman usurped my authority at every turn when it came to you."

"Of course you’d say something like that. Do you honestly expect me to believe that you allowed the help to run over Sienna Raine?"

Dianna was—

He held his palm up to her. Stop right there. You will not speak ill of her. And I have no intention of discussing her with you. Besides, she isn’t the reason for your visit.

You’re right, she replied, her tone low as she regained her composure. She isn’t. Sienna looked toward me. Aria, can I trouble you for something to drink?

Of course. Sparkling water? I asked.

Something stronger. Perhaps a brandy.

I glanced at Aiden as he assessed his mother, the anger in his expression morphing to something else.

Er... sure, I said, confounded as I stepped over to the bar near Aiden’s desk.

They were both quiet until I passed Sienna a glass. She took a sip of the alcohol, and then said, I apologize for my outburst. I’m truly grateful for Dianna’s influence in your life.

Sienna carried herself with a sartorial elegance, even when she was in full-bitch mode, but the woman I’d just described a few moments ago had somehow vanished behind those words. The façade of refined culture and superiority had slipped away. Her rueful expression, her atoning words, even her choice of drinks had somehow humanized her.

Her apology was more to Aiden than to me... yet he said nothing. I did, however, give her a reassuring smile once I’d moved closer to them.

Aiden, do you think you can ever forgive me? she asked.

His gaze crawled over Sienna’s face. I know how Dad is. 

I glanced at him, shocked by the empathy in his tone. Apparently Sienna’s unease with their dispute was starting to chip away at his hardened exterior.

I know how he manipulates and pushes his way. And you’re right—you’ve let him do it my whole life, so why should I expect anything different, he said, turning less sympathetic. Can I forgive it? I don’t think so.

Her face fell, but only for a second, then she reapplied her highbrow exterior. I see.

We sat in an uncomfortable silence for a long stretch of time. I lifted a brow toward Aiden, suggesting he say something.

But... that’s all in the past, Aiden started. If you’re really interested in making some changes, there’s a chance we can develop a better relationship.

Sienna’s lips curved into a half-smile. Thank you, Aiden. I’ll be honest; it’s going to be difficult. Please don’t expect any miracles. I don’t want to disappoint you, so please keep in mind that years and years of learned behavior can’t simply disappear.

I realize that... but if you’re really sincere in your efforts, we have a chance and I’ll support you in any way that I can.

We both will, I added.

Thank you, Aiden. And you, too, Aria. She took another sip of brandy, then shook her head. I feel like such a fool. All these years, I’ve convinced myself that I was doing what was best for the family, but I’m starting to see that nothing could be further from the truth.

Aiden looked at me as he spoke. I was the same, but I now see clearly for the first time in my life. He winked at me, then turned toward his mother. We’ll be here for you, and I’m certain Sloan, Nick and Allie will say the same.

That is my hope, she replied, her spirits clearly lifted. You said there were... two issues. I’m almost afraid to ask, but what is the other?

Chapter Three

Mother, I really need to know, Aiden started. What’s brought on this change?

Sienna looked at me with a warm smile and said, Watching you and Aria start your family. You two are genuinely happy, and it’s not the masquerade our family has become over the years. It’s real love. Your father and I had that once, she continued. "I still love Connor, but so many things have become a part of being a Raine, that I often forget why I fell in love with him. The night Lyric was found, Aria said I had no right to call myself a mother—that shattered me. I’ve been so focused on making sure you pick a woman who we considered suitable, that I disregarded what was right for you, for all of my children. And since that dreadful night, I’ve been asking to spend time with you and with my grandson, and you’ve either ignored my requests, or flat out refused. And Aiden, that broke my heart. You’ve always been the one I can count on. The one who made sure everything was okay. And... I knew I was going to lose you if I didn’t do something."

And you came up with all of this on your own? he asked.

No. Of course not, she said, waving off his question. I was quite distraught after you turned away from me. I was beside myself, couldn’t quite calm down, so I made a call to the family doctor thinking anxiety medication would be the remedy, but he didn’t quite agree with my self-diagnosis. He referred me to a therapist. I’ve been seeing her for about three weeks now, and our sessions have been quite extensive.

I’m happy for you, Sienna, I said. "That’s