Everything Happens For A Reason (Unexpected Love Series)

By C.L. Martinez

It is said that everything happens for a reason. What happens when you put a VP of a M/C and a single mom together?

Steel is the VP of The Demons M/C who doesn't believe in love until he meets Callie. He knows instantly that there is a reason she was brought into his life. He has to figure out what that reason is.
Callie is a single mom trying to figure out her life in a new place when she meets Steel. She is wary of the instant attraction between them as any woman who has been thru what she has would be. She doesn't want a relationship but Fate has a different plan for her.
Follow Callie and Steel on their ride to happily ever after or whatever life has in store for them. Will they be able to overcome their differences and band together when one of them is threatened?
See how they navigate their challenges with their families and friends going along for the ride.

• Language: English
• Publisher: C.L. Martinez
• Release date: Sep 20, 2020
• ISBN: 9781005787424

C.L. Martinez

C.L. Martinez now lives in Seattle Washington. I refer to myself as a transplanted New Yorker. I moved here from New York City because I needed a change.It took me a year and a half to figure out I wanted to give writing a try. It has always been my dream to write a book. I wrote the first draft of my book in less than a month. I was in the middle of my first draft of my second book when the idea for the prequel came to me. I completed the prequel in less than two weeks.I wanted to publish last year but 2019 was a very rough year for me. I took the time to edit and rewrite some things in the books and made a New Year's Resolution to publish in 2020 no matter what.I am a firm believer in Everything Happens For A Reason. Its the reason for the book titles.

Book preview

Prologue

As I am driving home from the bar where I work a couple of nights a week, I was grateful my son Jace had the truck tonight. I enjoy the late night drives and the alone time. I haven’t had that in a while. It helps me think and I had alot to think about. Mainly what I was going to do about Steel. I don’t think he will let me go without a fight.

Thinking of Steel always makes me smile. He is everything I ever wanted and more but all the little incidents started when I began seeing him. The only thing I can do is let him go before one of us gets really hurt….physically hurt because we are both going to be heartbroken. My heart is breaking just thinking about it. He has the club, they will help him get over me. I hope.

I was so lost in thought I didn’t realize how fast I was going. Good thing its late. I tap on the brakes but nothing happens. I press the brake pedal all the way down and still nothing. My brakes are out. That cant be, Titan just checked my car yesterday. Everything was fine.

Suddenly I am hit from behind. At this speed I can barely keep the car steady. The black car behind me hits me again. I swerve and he hits me again, hard. My car goes off the road. I feel like I am hit in the face with a bat. My last thought before everything goes black is thank goodness Jace wasn’t driving.

1

6 Months Earlier

Callie

Iam at work reading a text from Liza, one of my coworkers and friend.

Liza: Do u still need a ride to the bar after work?

Me: Yes please. I will head to the office 10 mins early so I can change.

Liza: Ok. C u in an hr

Me: Thanks so much. I owe u one

A text from your husband? a deep voice practically growls at me. I jump and look up to see the tallest sexiest man I have ever seen in person. He looked like The Rock, Thor and Theo James all rolled into one guy. He had a beautiful caramel complexion, dark hair, hazel eyes, lots of muscles and tattoos.

Damn…he is a sexy ass tall drink of whiskey. He was at least 6’7 or 6’8, all muscles and tattoos. He was also laughing.

Do you always just say what pops into your head? he asks.

What? Did I say that out loud? I should be embarrassed but I’m not.

He was still chuckling. Yes you did, but I don’t mind. I like a woman who speaks her mind.

I shrug my shoulders. I would say I am sorry but I’m not. You are sexy as sin and I rarely have a filter.

He gives me a small nod. Good to know. So, was that a text from your husband?

No, I don’t have a husband. That was my friend. She is driving me to my second job. WTF! I have no idea why I answered him. Something for me to think about later. I should see what he needs.

I look up at him. Well, now that we have gotten inappropriate comments out of the way, how can I help you?

He grins. Well you can start by giving me your name and number.

I refrain from rolling my eyes. I get that line alot. Haha...very funny. You are not the first to ask me that. I can give you my name but you will have to earn the right to my number.

He starts laughing. "Okay. What do I have to do to earn your number…. he raises his eyebrow at me.

Callie

Callie. I like the sound of that. Were you born in California?

Really? That is the best he could do. No, Its C-a-l-l-i-e not C-a-l-i. It’s short for Calliope. Why the hell did I tell him that! I cant figure out why I am telling him this. I never tell anyone personal things when I am at work.

Calliope…that’s beautiful. Greek?

Yes, I am Greek and Spanish.

Hmm…that explains your beautiful exotic look.

That was a new one. Thank you and now what can I help you with?

Huh? He looks confused.

You are standing at the information desk so what can I help you with?

Oh, nothing. I am here with my buddy. He has to buy his ole lady a birthday gift.

Wow, they really use that. Hmm…I didn’t think you really called your women old ladies. Seems a little rude.

It’s actually a sign of respect. Once you are claimed as an ole lady no one in the club can make a pass at you.

No one should make a pass at her anyway if she is with someone. Okay, but still ole lady. No woman wants to be referred to as an old lady. Respect or not.

He leans on the desk to look me in the eye. So when I claim you as mine, what do I call you?

Confident. Kind of like that. Well, I don’t see that happening.

Why not?

Hmm, not used to someone not falling for his charm. I am not looking for a relationship or anything right now. And I am pretty sure I am not your type.

He gives me a questioning look. Really? How do you know? You don’t know anything about me.

I nod. You are right. I don’t know anything about you except you are the Vice President of a motorcycle club and probably prefer women that like bikes or at the very least have time to be in a relationship.

He gives me a surprised look. How do you know I am a VP of a club?

I give him a duh look and look at his cut which says Vice President. He looks down at his vest and smirks.

Okay, you got me there. How do you know I am looking for a relationship?

He kind of makes me wish I was looking which is a bit shocking to me. I don’t really but you did ask me what you can call me when you claim me. So, unless that was just a line then you are looking for a relationship.

Wow! You are quick.

If he only knew. Well, I have to be.

The desk phone rings. Excuse me.

I look at the number and see its Security.

Me: Information desk

Ray: Hey Callie, everything okay down there?

Me: Yes, everything is fine.

Ray: That guy has been there a while. I am just checking.

Me: Thanks for checking. I am okay, just having a conversation.

Ray: Okay. See you later

Me: Bye

He seems annoyed. As soon as I hang up he asks Who was that?

I smile and glance at the camera. It was my security team making sure I was okay. It’s not everyday I have a conversation with a guest that is 7 feet tall.

He bursts out laughing. I am not 7 feet tall, you are just short.

The nerve! I look at him indignantly and say I am not short. I am average height.

He looks down at me and tries not to smile. I guess I hit a nerve. Sorry. So, where is your other job? Can I give you a ride instead of your friend?

Bold. I am not used to that from people around here. Thanks but no thanks. I don’t think that is a good idea.

He smirks. Why? I don’t bite unless you want me too.

He doesn’t need to know I bite back. Good to know but my momma always told me never take rides from strangers.

He grins at me. We are not strangers. We have been talking for over half an hour.

Like that is a long time. That may be true but I don’t even know your name.

Chris

She had me there. I didn’t even give her my name. I was so busy trying to memorize everything about her. She is a beautiful raven haired woman. She is about 5’5, blue eyes and black hair with dark red highlights. She has the gorgeous tan complexion of the Greek. I’m such an ass.

I reach over the counter and take her hand. It is so small in my huge hand and all I can think is how good it will feel to have her in my arms. WTF! I cant believe I had that thought. I lean on the desk so we are eye level and tell her Hi, my name is Chris. It’s been a real pleasure to speak to you Calliope.

She looks down at our clasped hands and says It’s been a pleasure talking to you too Chris, but you still cant have my number or give me a ride to work. She then smiles sweetly at me.

I burst out laughing. She is quick. This is the most entertaining conversation I have had in a long time. She is such a breath of fresh air. Nothing like the women I am used to. I need to get to know her better.

Okay, fair enough. I would really like to get to know you better. Can we have dinner or something real soon?

She looks at me uncertainly and warily. I want to take that guarded look out of her eyes. Whoever put that distrustful look on her face should be wiped off the planet. I know that look. My mom used to have that look before my bastard of an old man croaked. It’s the expression of someone who has been hurt too many times. FUCK!

I push on even though I know she is on guard. How about I give you my number and you can call me when you are ready?

She looks at me and says quietly What if I am never ready?

I hope that is not the case. I need to watch out for her. I go for honesty. If you are never ready it will break my heart but I will try to understand. I am hoping that you will at least give me a chance to be your friend if nothing else. You cant have too many friends.

I didn’t want to just be her friend but I would rather have her in my life as a friend than nothing at all. I cant protect her if she is not in my life and I know I needed to keep her safe at all costs. I have no idea where these thoughts were coming from but I was already very protective of this beautiful small woman. My Woman.

Callie

I looked into this huge guys hazel eyes and saw something that made me trust him. Okay, I guess a girl cant have too many friends. I would be interested in getting to know you a little better on two conditions.

He immediately squeezes my hand and answers Anything.

I laugh. You don’t even know what the conditions are. I could ask you to strip down and run thru the mall naked or something.

He shrugs his shoulders. That’s okay. I have nothing to be embarrassed about.

From what I can see I bet that is a fact. I am sure that is true but don’t you want to hear the conditions first?

He shrugs again. It doesn’t matter what they are. But what are your conditions?

I smile. I truly believe he doesn’t care what they are. The first condition is it has to be on my time.

He is rubbing his thumb along my knuckles. What has to be on your time?

I shake my head. Just like Jace, listening but not listening.The getting to know each other thing.

Done

No hesitation. Wow! You didn’t even think about it.

He shrugs. Nothing to think about. I want to get to know you and if it means on your time then I will take whatever time you give me. The other condition?

I look at his sleeve of tattoos and ask him Can you refer me to whoever did your tattoos?

I smile at his shocked look. I give him a wink. Hope those are conditions you can live with?

Chris

Those are her only conditions. I can definitely live with those. I can see she has a few tattoos already so I ask her Why do you need a referral? Don’t you have a tattoo artist you already go to?

She looks at her hand tattoo and the ones on her forearms. She smiles and says My tattoo guy is in New York. I haven’t found someone here that I trust yet. Since you have a full sleeve I figured you would have someone you use on a regular basis. If you don’t want to refer me to your person its okay. I will keep looking or just fly back to New York when I need a new tattoo.

New York? Interesting. I look down at her and blurt out Why is your tattoo guy in New York? Is that where your accent is from?

She gives me a look I cant read. Well I am from New York so that is why my tattoo guy is in NY. I don’t think I have an accent but since you are not the first person to say that I guess I get it from there as well.

I know I should wait to ask. How long have you been in Washington? Why such a big move? I didn’t mean to fire off the questions but it could explain the look in her eyes.

She gives me another guarded look but says I have been in Washington for about a year. We are not in the place in our new friendship where I feel I can answer your other question. We are supposed to be getting to know each other on my time, remember?

I knew I had to back off or I would lose her. That was not happening. You are right. I am sorry for my impatience.

She gives me a small smile and says It’s okay. You are probably not used to someone not giving into your charm or good looks.

She had no idea.

Callie

His questions were legitimate but I wasn’t ready to get into the fucked up details of my past life yet. I wasn’t sure if I was going to see him ever again so why tell him details of my life that I try very hard to put behind me. I notice that he is staring intently at me while my mind momentarily wanders.

I look up at him. So, are you going to refer me to your tattoo artist or not?

He gives me the same smirk I am getting used to and says No I am not.

My eyes jump up to his and I see he has a mischievous glint in his eye. Why not? I ask him.

He smiles. I don’t want anyone else putting their mark on you.

WTH! What are you talking about? It is not a mark. It is a tattoo.

He shakes his head. Every tattoo artist has a mark. It’s the reason they have repeat customers and I don’t want someone else putting their mark on you. I can give you any tattoo you want free of charge.

I look at him in surprise. You are a tattoo artist?

He gives me a big smile. Yes I am. If you want a tattoo I can give you one. How many tattoos do you have anyway?

What are the odds of that? I answer him. Thirteen. I look at him and think I cant wait to have his mark on me. Shit! I cant believe I just had that thought after knowing him less than an hour.

Mona, my relief just showed up. I have to go change and get ready for my second job.

I look up at Chris and say It was nice talking to you. Thanks for the company. I have to go.

He looks me in the eye and nods his head. I understand. Let me give you my number.

I give him a sticky note and he writes his number down.

Chris

I write down my number and hand it to her. Call me anytime. Day or night. We can set up an appointment for your tattoo whenever you want. Or anything else you decide you want from me.

She takes the number, smiles and says Thanks.

Have a good evening Calliope. I give her hand a gentle squeeze because I have to touch her one last time. I don’t want this to end but I move to walk away from the desk.

She has a thoughtful look on her face. She calls out Chris?

Thank God. I look back at her Yes Sweetheart.

She blushes, scribbles something on a piece of paper and holds it out to me. I don’t normally do this but here is my number.

I make sure I touch her fingers as I take the paper. Thank you for trusting me Sweetheart. Be safe. Talk to you soon.

I go and sit by the door while I wait for Webb. I text him to let him know where I am waiting. I also program Calliope’s number in my phone. I want to call her now so I can hear her voice. She just left the desk so I cant see her anymore. I really want to text her but don’t want to scare her off.

I cant believe it. I just came to the mall because I needed to do something mindless. I was restless. I didn’t have any appointments today so when Webb said he had to run to the mall to get Angie a birthday gift I told him I would go along for the ride. I already bought Angie flowers so I was good with her.

Everything happens for a reason. Obviously I was meant to come to the mall today. I was supposed to meet Calliope. I can feel it. I cant explain it but I know she is going to be someone very important to me. Webb finally comes back with a gift bag from one of the jewelry stores. Good choice

He shrugs. I hope so.

As we are getting on our bikes to leave I look at the doors and see my woman walk out in a tight ass skirt, a button up shirt not fully buttoned up showing off way too much cleavage. She also has on little ankle boots with a three or four inch heel. What The Fuck!! Where is she going dressed like that? I watch her get into a silver SUV with a short woman.

I look over at Webb. I will meet you back at the compound. There is something I have to do first.

He must hear something in my voice. You need backup? he asks.

No, I’m good.

He nods. See you in a bit.

I follow the SUV.

Callie

I can not believe I just gave him my number. I don’t do things like that. I am a notorious overthinker. I get back to the office and change in the bathroom. I wish I could stay in my slacks and flats but the owner of the steakhouse wants his female bartenders in a skirt and heels. I don’t like it but I have to say the tips are usually great.

I fix my pencil skirt and make sure my bralette is showing under my button up. I go and sit at Cami’s desk to put my heels on. Thank goodness Liza is driving me to work or I don’t know how I would deal with riding on the bus in these shoes. Normally I would drive but my son Jace needed the car today.

Liza finishes her work and we are ready to go. She looks at me while we are walking out of the office and says Girl, you look hot. Why don’t you have a man yet?

I don’t say anything because she always says that and smile at her. We walk out to her car chatting about our day. I tell her about Chris when we get to her car. She stops and exclaims "Why didn’t you say something as soon as you got to the office?’

I shrug. I don’t know why I mentioned it to her. It’s not that big of a deal. I met a guy at the desk and on an impulse gave him my number. He is probably not even going to call.

She gives me one of her looks. He spoke to you for an hour. He is going to call you.

I laugh at her but I kind of hope she is right. If you say so.

She shrugs. I do. He is going to call you or stalk you.

Well fuck. I don’t need that. Gee thanks Liza. Not sure if I want a stalker.

She shakes her head at me. You are a beautiful person inside and outside. Anyone can see that. Trust me he will call you.

I don’t want to get my hopes up. Okay, if you say so.

I do she says again.

We get to the steakhouse and she tells me she wants all the details about Chris tomorrow night. It’s our Friday girls night tomorrow. I laugh and blow her a kiss. I get out of the car, fix my skirt, take a deep breath and head into the steakhouse.

I wave hello to Laurie, the hostess and go to the back to drop off my stuff before I head behind the bar. I check my outfit, hair and makeup before I stop in the office to grab my till from Dave the manager.

Hey Dave.

Hi Callie. How are you today?

I’m okay and you?

I am good. You look nice.

Thanks. I know Dave hates that the owner insists on the skirt and heels uniform. We have had a few discussions about it since I started here a few months ago.

Here you go. Have a successful night.

Thanks Dave. See you later.

---

I head behind the bar and get my register ready. I used to hate wearing heels back here but I have gotten used to it. It’s pretty clean and if we drop anything the barback cleans it up right away. I always give him a little extra from my tips because without his quick cleaning it would be a real pain in the ass working back here in heels.

I hear someone sit down behind me. I don’t look back. I will be with you in a second.

I freeze when I hear a very familiar voice say Take your time, Sweetheart. I am in no rush. I love the view.

I slowly turn around and see Chris sitting there with a big grin on his face. I am happy to see him even though I should be pissed he followed me. I am so confused by my thoughts. What are you doing here?

I thought I would stop in for a drink.

I give him an incredulous look. Really? You thought you would stop into a steakhouse for a drink?

Yes he says hesitantly. He doesn’t look so smug now.

I raise an eyebrow at him. Really?

He huffs. Alright, I saw you leave the mall with your friend and had to see where you worked dressed like that.

I’m surprised by his honesty and decide to give him a break. You don’t like my outfit? I give him my best hurt look.

He looks shocked. No not at all. I mean yes I do. Too much.

I cant hold in my laugh at seeing him all flustered.

He looks at me. You set me up?

I smile at him. Who me? Never. What can I get you?

You he answers immediately.

Let me rephrase that. What can I get you to drink?

I will have a Jack and Coke.

Coming up. I turn and make his drink. Here you go. That will be $7.50.

He hands me a twenty. Keep the change.

I hand the money back to him. The drink is on me. I start to turn around.

He grabs my hand. Wait, what just happened here?

Nothing Chris.

Honestly he didn’t do anything that many of the customers do here on a nightly basis. I guess I just thought he would be different. Not some jerk that throws a big tip at me because my boobs are practically hanging out.

Hey, I didn’t mean to offend you if that is what you think. I was just trying to be nice.

No offense taken. Don’t worry about it. Excuse me, I have another customer.

I walk over to Jim, one of my regulars. Hey Jim, the usual?

Yes please. How are you doing tonight Callie?

I hand him his vodka cranberry. I am good. Opening a tab for you tonight, Jim?

Yes, you sure you are alright?

Yes, I am fine. It’s been a long day.

You worked your other job today too?

Yes I did.

That’s why it is a long day. I thought you were going to quit the other job?

I was but I decided to stick with it for a bit longer. I love the people I work with there.

I understand that but if 2 jobs is too much for you then you need to figure out which one is better financially.

Yeah I know. Thanks Jim. I will think about things. Maybe make a pro and cons list.

Chris

I sat at the bar sipping my drink and listening to her conversation with Jim. I couldn’t figure out what I did wrong when I offered her the tip. She seemed genuinely disappointed. I think I would have preferred mad over disappointed. I watch her deal with two other customers and speak to the other bartender. She finally makes her way back to me.

She smiles but I can see a wall there that wasn’t there at the mall. Hey, can I get you another drink?

I consider saying yes so we can talk but I don’t want to upset her while she is at work. Um..no. I have to head out. Prior engagement. I don’t want to upset you but can you please take the money?

She looks up at me thinking. It would make me feel better if you take the money and let me buy you the drink.

I am torn because I don’t want to take the money back but I want to make her feel better. Surprisingly I also want to make her happy.

Will it really make you feel better if I take the money?

She nods. Yes it will, Chris.

I take the money and put it in my pocket. She gives me a sweet grateful smile.

Thank you Chris.

I lean over the bar and kiss her cheek. Anything to make you happy Sweetheart. Have a good night. Be safe. Thank you for the drink.

I nod at Jim and walk out of the bar. I get on my bike and sit for a minute. I cant seem to get her out of my head. I cant get these thoughts out of my head either. All I want to do is make her happy and claim her as mine. This has never happened to me before. With that thought I pull out my phone and send her a text. I hope it makes her smile.

Callie

Unknown #: Sweetheart… I know we just met but I feel like it was meant to happen. Everything happens for a reason and I feel like you are the reason I went to the mall. I want to get to know you and make you feel better and happy on a daily basis. I am not a stalker but I will do everything in my power to get to know you. PLEASE give me a chance.

Unknown #: How are you getting home tonight? I can come pick you up.

---

I read the messages from Chris and smile. I text him back.

Me: I would like to get to know you too. I believe everything happens for a reason also.

Me: Thanks for the offer but my roommate is picking me up tonight.

Chris: Female??

Me: Lol. Yes, she is my best friend.

Chris: Ok good. Call me if you need anything. Have a good night, Sweetheart.

Me: Thanks again. You have a good night also.

I smile at my phone again. I look up when I hear someone clear their throat. It’s Dave my manager.

Plan on smiling at your phone all night? he says with a smirk.

I was thinking about it. I say with a smile.

Very funny Callie.

I thought so Dave.

He shakes his head at me as I walk over to Jim and give him another drink.

That big guy your new boyfriend, Callie? asks Jim.

I sort of hope so. I am not sure yet, maybe.

He seems like a good guy. He can protect you.

That’s a weird thing to say. Protect me from what?

He nods towards the door. From the looks of him, anything.

I think about what Jim said and my conversations with Chris. I am trying to figure out why I instantly trust him. I don’t trust easily. I am normally very guarded. I decide to talk about it with Tina, my BFF on our drive home. The rest of my shift goes by slowly.

Callie

My best friend Tina picks me up at 1am. She is an EMT and her shift ended at midnight. When I get into her car she looks up from her phone and asks how was your day?

I don’t answer her question instead I say I brought you a cheeseburger with fries.

She is texting on her phone and doesn’t look up. Bacon?

I roll my eyes at her. Of course.

She looks over at me. You’re the best.

I smile. Thanks for picking me up tonight.

No problem. I let Jace know I was picking you up.

Did he forget? He knew that already. I told him this morning.

It’s her turn to roll her eyes. I know. He wanted to confirm I didn’t get stuck on a call or forget.

He’s a good kid. I smile thinking about my son.

Yeah, he is. I hope you got him a burger too because I am not sharing.

I start laughing. Yes, I did. I know you don’t share your food after a shift.

Damn right! That kid is eating us out of house and home anyway. She laughs at her own joke. But really, how was your day Doll?

It was interesting.

She glances at me. Really? How so?

I take a deep breath. I met a guy.

She looks at me and then back at the road. "WHAT! And you are just mentioning this now? Where? When? What does he look like? Are you going out with him? Please tell me you gave him your number.

She fires off all these questions at me. Okay, okay. Calm down chicky. We have only been in the car five minutes.

She is shaking her head at me. I don’t believe you. You start off with food before telling me about a guy. So…

I have no clue what she wants me to answer first. So what?

Answer the damn questions!

Oh, all of them. Okay, I met him at the mall. We chatted for about an hour. We haven’t made any plans to go out yet.

She is shocked. You gave him your number?

I am shocked too. This is not like me at all. Yes I did.

She nods her head slightly, thinking. He must have made an impression?

I smile because he really did. Yes he did. I cant explain it but I trusted him instantly. He made me feel safe and special.

She glances at me again. Really? That’s awesome. I know its been a while since you felt like that.

She should know. She has been with me thru everything. No I haven’t but do you think its strange that we had this instant connection? I mean I gave him my number. I bought him a drink even though he followed me to the bar. I let him kiss me.

She shouts. KISS YOU?? Why are you leaving out the good parts?

OMG! She is freaking out. Calm down! He kissed me on the cheek when he left the bar. Geesh.. what kind of person do you think I am?

Hon, I know what type of person you are. I am your best friend. I am just surprised. You have been um…closed off to the idea of dating and now you are telling me you met a guy, gave him your number and let him kiss you. It’s a little unnerving, that’s all.

I know exactly what she means. I know, I know. It’s surprising to me as well. I have been processing the whole situation for hours.

She snorts. Ha, I bet you have. Do you want to overthink it together?

I smile at her. Thanks but I think I will process it some more first.

She gives me a knowing look. She knows how I am. Okay, lets go in. I am starving.

I am grateful she let it go for now. Sure. Oh and please don’t say anything to Jace yet. I want to think about it and see what happens first.

She nods because she knows how Jace is. Okay, not a peep from me. Oh and don’t think I didn’t notice you didn’t tell me what he looks like.

I will tell you later. I shake my head at her as we walk into the apartment.

Callie

I am back at work the next morning after a restless night. I couldn’t get the events of yesterday out of my head long enough to get a good nights sleep. I am at the desk texting the girls the details for the night when I get a message from Chris.

Chris: Good morning Sweetheart. How are you today?

I smile and text him back.

Me: I am ok. How r u?

Chris: Only ok? Whats wrong? Anything I can do to help?

Me: I am tired. Thanks for asking.

Chris: Why aren’t you sleeping in? I am sure you had a late night.

Me: I wish. I am at work.

Chris: At the mall? Do you need me to bring you coffee or something? I can be there in 20 mins.

Me: That’s sweet but I already had 2 cups of coffee. Thanks anyway

Chris: Are you working at the bar tonight?

Me: No, I am off from the bar tonight.

Chris: Can I take you to dinner tonight?

Me: Sorry, I cant. I have plans

Chris: With a guy?

Me: No with the girls. It’s girls night

Me: Not that its any of your business

I can’t figure out why I was telling him personal things.

Chris: You are right. I am sorry but just so you know I am a jealous man.

Chris: How about tomorrow night?

I think about what he said. Do I really want another jealous man in my life? It is very tiresome and frustrating.

Chris: Hello?

Chris: What did I say?

Me: I am not sure I want a jealous man in my life.

Chris: Can I take you out tomorrow night? We can get to know each other first before you decide.

Chris: Please give me one chance Sweetheart

Me: One chance but not tomorrow night. I have to work at the bar.

Me: I am off all day Sunday if that works for you

Chris: I’ll take it. I will text you with a time

Chris: Thank you Sweetheart. You just made my day.

Me: Your welcome. Have a great day.

Chris: It already is. Have fun tonight but please be careful. Call me if you need me to pick you up.

Me: Thanks

I really hope I don’t regret this but I had to give him a chance.

Callie

Girls night is always an adventure. The girls from the office, Tina and I get together 1 to 2 times a month depending on our schedules or what is going on in our lives. It is our time to let our hair down, catch up and drink our problems away.

A couple of drinks in, we are having a good time and then Tina opens her big mouth. So Callie, what does your mystery man look like?

Five pairs of eyes are trained on me. They are all waiting for an answer. When I don’t answer quick enough they all start throwing questions at me.

---

Who is he?

Where did you meet him?

What does he look like?

Are you going to sleep with him?

Is he the guy you met yesterday?

---

I look at all of them. Oh my goodness! Calm down! Yes, I met him yesterday at the desk. His name is Chris. I don’t think I am going to sleep with him.

What? Why not?

You still didn’t answer what he looks like.

I look at Tina and roll my eyes. You are relentless. I don’t think I am going to sleep with him because he has already told me he is a jealous man and I don’t want to deal with that.

I think I am off the hook because they all know how I feel about jealous men. Jealous men are usually insecure, turn possessive and then abusive. Either verbally, physically or emotionally and I don’t want to deal with all that mess.

Tina looks at me and practically yells WHAT DOES HE LOOK LIKE?

I suck my teeth at her. Geesh, you don’t have to scream at me. He is Spanish, tall, dark hair, hazel eyes and has sexy ass tattoos.

How tall?

What kind of Spanish?

Where did he get his tattoos?

I don’t know what type of Spanish. I didn’t ask. He is very tall, about 6’7 or 6’8. He is muscular and he is a tattoo artist. He is also the VP of a motorcycle club. I threw the last part in without thinking.

What!?

Motorcycle club? You cant date him. Bikers are dangerous and do illegal shit says Cami.

She watches too much Netflix. That’s very judgemental and stereotypical for you to say. He didn’t seem dangerous at all. He was very nice and polite.

She rolls her eyes at me. How long did you speak to him that you can say that? 5 minutes?

I stop myself from rolling my eyes back at her. I know they mean well. No, we spoke for an hour at the desk and then he went to the bar for a drink.

She shrugs her shoulders. Have you heard from him since? I bet you haven’t.

Fuck! You would think I was a moron with the way they are looking at me. As a matter of fact he text me last night and this morning. I made plans to see him on Sunday. It’s his one shot to convince me to give him a chance at dating me.

That shocked them into silence. I never do things like that. I resisted the urge to stick my tongue out at them.

Marie smiles at me. He must have made a really good impression if you are giving him a shot.

I don’t say anything because she is right. I still didn’t know what it was about him but I was determined to find out why I was attracted to him.

2

Callie

The next night at the bar I am chatting with my usual Saturday night crowd. It is pretty busy. I am closing out a tab for a customer when I hear someone sit down and clear their throat. I turn around and lock eyes with Chris. I am surprised but happy to see him. He seems a little upset. I smile at him.

Hi, what are you doing here?

He looks into my eyes and sighs. I was worried about you. You didn’t answer any of my texts or calls.

I haven’t even checked my phone. Oh, I am sorry. I didn’t mean to worry you. It’s been crazy in here tonight. I haven’t even looked at my phone since I started my shift. It was really sweet of you to show up and check on me. Thank you.

I give him the sweetest smile I can and reach over to squeeze his hand. He squeezes my hand back.

So you weren’t ignoring me or giving me the brush off? he asks me quietly.

Shit! Now I feel bad. I hate to have someone think that about me. Of course not. I would have answered you when I looked at my phone. Here let me get you a drink.

I give him a Jack and Coke.

I pat his hand. Give me a minute. I have to refill some customer orders.

I go back to work. Chris doesn’t leave. I chat with him when I have a few moments. At the end of my shift he asks How are you getting home?

My car outside.

Okay, I will meet you outside. Make sure you get in your car safely.

That is really sweet. You don’t have to do that. One of the guys always walks me to my car.

He squeezes my hand. Please let me do this. It will make me feel better Sweetheart.

Damn! I really like when he calls me Sweetheart and cant seem to deny him. Okay, I should be about 20 minutes.

He leans over and kisses my cheek. Thank you.

Chris

I was so relieved when she agreed to let me wait for her. She has no idea what she does to me. I wish I could explain it. I have never pursued a woman before. I never had to but I also never wanted to. Callie has not left my thoughts since I saw her. It’s not just her beauty because she is gorgeous. It’s her eyes. It’s like looking into her soul. You can see she is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside.

It’s corny as shit but it’s true. When she didn’t answer any of my calls or texts I had an overwhelming need to make sure she was alright. I don’t know what I would have done if I didn’t find her here.

When I told Saint I had to go. He looked at me and said She must be special. Can’t wait to meet her. I just looked at him in shock. I haven’t mentioned Callie to anyone not even him and he is my best friend.

He smirks. What? Didn’t think I noticed you on your phone like a teenage girl, getting more anxious by the minute because she hasn’t answered.

I shrug. He is on point. You are right. She is special. I haven’t figured out how special but I do know she always answers her phone. I am getting worried.

He nods. You need backup? I can take a ride.

That’s why he was my best friend. No questions just an offer for backup. We have known each other since we were kids. Our dads were part of the club. We were raised together. His dad was more of a dad to me than my old man.

My old man didn’t want a family. He claimed my mom as his ole lady when he knocked her up. He made sure we knew he didn’t want us every chance he got. He was either sleeping around with anyone that he could or he was knocking my mom around. I hated him til the day he died.

No I will call if I do.

He claps me on the back. Alright man. Good luck.

Thanks

I left the compound and rode straight here. When I walked in and saw her I felt like a giant boulder was lifted off of my chest. I could breathe easier again. When she turned around and saw me her eyes lit up with happiness. I cant even explain how that made me feel. It was all I could do not to drag her over the bar and hug the shit out of her. I was so relieved she was alright.

She seemed genuinely happy to see me and distressed that she worried me. She was sorry she missed my calls. She was also very surprised that I was worried. Watching her work was fascinating. She flows easily from one conversation to the next. She remembers everyone’s drink. She made sure everyone had what they needed. She made a point of always chatting with me. She was amazing.

I was lost in thoughts of her when my phone buzzed.

Sweetheart: Sorry took so long. On my way out.

I just put my phone back in my pocket when she walked out. She said bye to some guy who I didn’t like the way he was looking at me. She walks over to me and looks up. Hi.

I pull her to me, bend down and kiss her lightly on the lips. I wanted to make sure that asshole knew she was mine. I wanted to devour her and make her mine but I didn’t want to scare her off. She didn’t realize it but she was already my woman.

Callie

When Chris pulled me into