Alpha Douchebag: Their Happily Ever After, Lochlan & Ragan Trilogy #3

By S.N. Garza

When she finds out the truth about the deal he made with her grandmother, she’s devastated. The heartbreak is too much to bear and the only way out is to leave... breathe some Grifton Falls free air once more.

Lochlan isn’t giving up so easily. He’ll fight with everything he’s got to bring back the girl who stole his heart, along with every other part of him. She has more than just herself to think about now.

Just when she thinks she’s got it all together, an old friend shows up and rocks her world off its axis. Now, Ragan & Lochlan have to come together to defeat the odds.

Will his love be enough for her, or will it send them spiraling down a treacherous path of hatred and despair? Who knows?

One thing is for certain, it’s going to be a wild ride to get to the future they both deserve.

• Language: English
• Publisher: S.N. Garza
• Release date: Nov 29, 2022
• ISBN: 9781005813314

S.N. Garza

I am a 37 year old wife and mother of two who lives in a small country town in southeast Texas. I work during the day at Chilis Bar and Grill. I write dark, deeply emotional stories weaved with erotic romance that leaves you wanting more. My debut novel is Love Came Back & my best selling book & series, is The Billionaire’s Baby, book one in my Nauti Billionaires of Houston series. It is all sexy passion with an alpha hero who’ll sweep you off your feet.

Book preview

ALPHA DOUCHEBAG: THEIR HAPPILY EVER AFTER

LOCHLAN & RAGAN TRILOGY #3

ALPHA DOUCHEBAGS OF GRIFTON FALLS UNIVERSITY

SERIES BOOK 5

BY: S.N. GARZA

COPYRIGHT © NOVEMBER 2022 by SNGARZABOOKS

Cover Art: SNGARZA_designs

Photo: canstockphoto(dot)com

All Right Reserved

Smashwords edition

This book is sold subject to the condition that it shall not, by way of trade or otherwise, be lent, re-sold, duplicated, hired out or otherwise circulated without the publisher’s prior consent in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published and without similar condition including this condition being imposed on the subsequent purchaser.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are either the work of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, business establishments or locales is entirely coincidental.

BLURB

When she finds out the truth about the deal he made with her grandmother, she’s devastated. The heartbreak is too much to bear, and the only way out is to leave… breathe Grifton Falls free air once more.

Lochlan isn’t giving up so easily. He’ll fight with everything he’s got to bring the girl who stole his heart, along with every other part of him.

She has more than just herself to think about now.

Just when she thinks she’s got it all together, an old friend shows up and knocks her world right off its axis. Now, Ragan, Lochlan and their best friends have to come together to defeat the odds.

Will his love be enough for her or will it send them spiraling down a treacherous path of hatred and despair?

Who knows? One thing is for sure, it’s going to be wild ride to get to the future they both deserve.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Copyright

Blurb

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Bonus Content

Cover Reveal: The King

B.O.B.S

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

1

RAGAN

My eyes widen. Shock screams through my body. He couldn’t have said what I think he did. 

What did you say?

He grounds his pelvis into mine and groans. You heard me, princess. Tell me you want my baby and I’ll finish.

"But— what? I—

He stops the delicious assault on my person and surrounds me with his entire body. The heat temporarily distracts me from the insane comment he made. 

Yeah, Ragan. Tell daddy you want his baby.

I push him away and his left brow raises high, that cocky smirk of his on display.

I can’t say that. You’re crazy. He is totally certifiable. I’m not about to say I want his baby. I don’t even know what career I want to have yet and he’s already thinking five steps ahead of me.

Why not? Did his voice just deepen? Why is he mad? There’s no possible way he’s serious right now.

Lochlan. My voice is low, almost breathlessly inaudible.

Then his face softens, his gaze sweeping over my face. Am I almost panicking? Maybe. What am I thinking? Fuck yes, I’m panicking. Babies?

He leans in, nuzzling his nose against mine. I just need the words. Say them for me, princess.

He rocks his hips slowly; almost a delicate torture as I lift my legs, crossing them around the small of his back, giving me a higher position on his cock, allowing him to stroke that perfect spot.

We’ve only mentioned kids once and he knew from how I reacted, it’s not a subject I was ready to go down. He’s never had me say that before. I'm on birth control, so it shouldn’t matter anyway but still. 

Lochlan, I don’t think so.

He shoves into me, his groin smacking into my behind in a hard clash, making me gasp as he growls, Fucking say it, Ragan. 

His command ignites an automatic response out of me when I whisper, I want your baby, Lochlan.

Then all I feel is his teeth on my neck, clamping down and biting me as he jerks relentlessly into my pussy with a hunger and speed I’ve never seen him possess.  While I don’t think I liked saying that, my body definitely does because it’s just as wet as before, if not more as he slides deeper. Pounding relentlessly into my body, setting it on fire. 

Now that I’ve said it, the seed has been planted. A baby? Does he really want a family with me? He’s crazy. We’re both too young for that. Right? I don’t even have a career plan in motion yet.

If he fucks me with this much fervor, I’ll say whatever he wants though. If that’s what he wants, I’ll stick the deeper meaning of it to the back of my mind and say what I know he really wants me to say. 

Give me your baby, Lochlan. Fuck me and cum deep inside me.

Our centers smack against each other, the wet slick sounds of our bodies burning together mixes with our harsh breathing. Yeah, that’s it. Fuck! You’re mine. You and all your babies are mine. All of them. Promise me, mo chuisle. No one gets to have you but me. I’ll kill the man who dares try.

Sweat beads at his forehead, I feel my upper lip dampening as this overwhelming feeling courses through my veins again. I’m getting so close. I want to come so badly. 

I promise! I promise. Come for me, Lochlan. Oh God.

My body can’t take much more. I already came plenty of times I lost count but this…. This is so much more. The pressure between my legs is building, a tightly wound crescendo about to peak. I hold my breath trying to keep calm, but a few more raging thrusts and I scream. I scream so hard my throat hurts. Pleasure and pain sweeps through my entire body and then heat fills me. 

His body drapes across mine and his hips jerk again and again as he comes. It seems never ending. 

When his body stops, he hums sleepily against my neck. 

That was… intense. Lochlan?

He moans beside me. His face shoved into the pillow my head is resting on. He’s taking a deep breath when he turns his head to the side, this sated, hazy expression on his face. 

What, Ragan?

Uh… that was super intense. Why did you— is that what you really want?

His face turns serious, his blue gaze keeps me trapped. One day. Yes, I do.

Like right now? Cause I don’t—, He reaches up and presses a finger to my lips, silencing me. 

Shh. Stop overthinking everything. Besides, we’re running late.

Late? I look at the clock and see we’ve been fucking for an hour! Late doesn’t even come close! 

Fuck, I shove him completely off me and jump out of bed, only to have my legs turn to jelly and I slide down on to the floor. Oh, dear God. I can’t walk. 

I hear a snort from the bed and then see him crawl to the edge. 

Looks like I did my job, princess. I’ll help.

Then he gets up as if being naked is a natural thing for him and he bends down, takes my armpits in his and I push up as he pulls me up to my feet. I lean into him, his cock soft against my belly and I can’t help the blush rising to my cheeks. 

Don’t worry, he’ll need time to recover. For now, come on. Our genitals have been thoroughly murdered.

You’re so dumb. Who says genitals?

Doctors and teachers?

You’re neither, you nincompoop.

Lochlan laughs, turning around, giving me his back. Climb up, honey.

It’s your fault I’m like this. All this sex and baby talk has got me all discombobulated. Which is the truth. Talking about babies makes me nervous, but in a way, not as nervous as in I don’t want his babies. It’s just… I mean, come on. It’s way too early for that.

Mmmm… I can’t help your pussy gets within centimeters of my cock and it starts weeping with need.

Must you say crap like that?

He shrugs as he walks into the bathroom and sets me down on the toilet. He grabs my toothbrush and paste and begins brushing his teeth. However, I really need to pee. He looks at me in the corner of his eye and lifts a brow. 

What is it, Ragan?

Excuse me, but I need to pee. You need to get out, please.

Chuckling, Lochlan turns back to the task at hand and shakes his head. Just go. It’s not a big deal. I know you do it. I know how girls urinate, princess.

There’s that clinical word usage again and you’ve never seen me pee, creep.

Here we go again. And we were doing so good. He smirks, rolling his eyes. He takes out the toothbrush and spits. I’ve never seen any girl go pee but it’s not a big deal. You’re my girl. Don’t be shy. It’s not like I haven’t been all up that pussy before. I’m close friends with that part of you, princess. Just go.

I hate you. I can’t go with you here.

Of course, you do, princess. Yes, you can. I’m not looking at you. Then he just nonchalantly continues brushing his teeth. 

I really do need to pee. God, he’s an asshole. Avert your eyes at least.

He gives me another eye roll but shifts his head away and I finally let go. When it finally comes, it’s like manna from heaven. Oh, my God. It’s like I’ve been holding it in for hours. I can’t help but let out a moan of pleasure. 

I stop when I feel eyes on me. I don’t have to see to know he’s looking at me. I lean down on my elbows, covering my face with my hands.

Turn your head, asshole.

Feel better, love?

Go take a dive off a cliff, perv. I open two fingers and glance up at him.

With a smile, he does as he’s told by closing his eyes and thankfully, he leans down to wash his mouth out while I finish and wipe. 

I jerk as the paper hits that sensitive area and my eyes roll. When I want to be fucked hard… Lochlan Masters never disappoints. 

I get up and slam the lid down and push the handle. I walk next to him. Wash my hands and take the brush he used— which was mine, dammit and rinse it underneath hot water before beginning to brush my own teeth. 

Of course, he takes the liberty of relieving his own bladder. 

Dear Lord Almighty. My gaze flies to where it comes out and I hear him chuckle. When my gaze flicks up to his, another red blush steals my cheeks. I’m embarrassed, so I just keep my head down, brush my teeth vigorously until I hear a flush. 

I feel him behind me when his hands take my waist and he slowly rubs up and down my spine, making my body melt. I love his hands. 

He’s still an asshole though. The worst part is… he knows it too. 

"It’s already past 12. Maybe—

No. Let’s go. It’s not a big deal. If I have to explain to her that you come first— literally, then her books don’t need to be published at MIPP. Okay? I’ll be right next to you, Ragan.

>><<

The house we roll up to isn’t the same as last night. Uh, I didn’t think this was the house? Where are we?

Lochlan laughs, nodding. The house we were at last night was Chase Mitchell’s father's estate. It’s the house with the ballroom. This is their private residence.

We arrived at a quarter till one, after I had put on underclothes and a nice little black sundress I brought, just in case of something like this. Somehow being at their private home is a little scary. Lochlan’s next to me and I’m getting nervous. 

It’s okay, Ragan. Everything will be fine. 

How do you know? We’re late. Like super late!

Because I have it on good authority that Mrs. Mitchell makes great exceptions to those she likes.

She doesn’t know me. She knows my grandmother and she doesn’t like her.

Let’s face it, princess. No one likes Anita Mount.

She’s gonna hate me, Lochlan. I just know it.

No, you don’t know that. I’m sure Travis Mitchell said what a feisty girl you are. She likes that. You’re going to be great. I’m proud of you, Ragan Elouise. You just have to knock on the door and try.

My nervousness was at an all-time high when his words of praise worked through my brain. Are you trying to calm me down?

Is it working?

It is but having him here with me also makes me a little nervous. I don’t want to look stupid in front of him. I’m… undecided as of yet.

He chuckles, takes my hand and brings it to his lips. Just say the word and we’re gone. But you’ll never know what you’re capable of if you don’t take a risk. Remember what I said? You can do and be anything you want to be. You don’t have to do anything regarding MIPP. But I think you’ll be making a mistake if you don’t at least give it a chance.  Not only is it your legacy, you deserve it for putting up with that old windbag for as long as you have. However, if my opinion counts for anything, I think you can take MIPP and make it an empire. You have me behind you. All the way. For always. No matter what you choose.

I think on this a moment and with his words earlier, I don’t know if I’m ready to take over something that massive. 

Lochlan?

Yes, Ragan?

What if I’m not ready?

This time, he leans down and kisses my temple. Then take your time. Declare your major and I’ll help you every step of the way. MIPP isn’t going anywhere any time soon. I’m proud of you either way.

Proud of me either way? God, I hate how he’s so perfect. When he’s sweet and charming like this, I get flustered. And just a bit horny. I can’t help but stare at him and wonder if we could have a quickie in the backseat before getting out of my car. That he drove and I must have been quite at my leisure because I didn’t put up a fight. 

He must know where my brain has gone because he smiles. It’s not arrogant though. It’s a genuine smile that turns my panties to liquid. 

What is it? Need my dick so soon again?

Aaaaand there goes sweet and charming. But he’s right. Totally.

He throws his head back laughing. Yeah. I admitted it. I’d jump him again right here. 

Let’s get this meeting over with and then you can take advantage of my stiff cock to your delight. He palms his crotch and squeezes until a moan lets out. Mmmm. Oh, yeah. Daddy’s cock is already missing his sweet little princess.

Oh, God. You’re so nasty.

He chuckles opening the driver’s door and comes to the passenger side when I open my door. He sticks his hand out for mine and I slip mine into it. 

I get out and he doesn’t let go. Just gives it a reassuring squeeze. 

Don’t worry, Ragan. You’re going to be great, mo chuisle. I’m right here beside you.

"I just know I’m going to look stupid. What if—

Nope. Don’t overthink. You’ll only overwhelm yourself and I’m not letting that happen. Remember, no one can make you feel inferior without your consent.

An Eleanor Roosevelt quote? Really?

Yup. Because it’s true, love.

His words calm me just enough to get through the first part. Getting to the door and ringing the bell. 

I wipe my sweaty palms down my dress as we wait for an answer. I hear the door unlocking and my heart beats a little faster. But Lochlan is right. I can do this. 

Gulp. I hope. 

The door opens and an elderly gentleman greets us. 

Afternoon, Miss Mount. Welcome to the Mitchell home. She’s been expecting you.

Warner! I thought I heard the bell! I see Mrs. Mitchell shuffling around their butler and she takes his bicep. We’ve told you to take it easy, Warner.

Ms. Maddy, I’m not dead yet, so I can do my job still.

Of course, Warner. What would we do without you? And look! She’s here with a guest. Hi, kids, come on in.

Kids? I glance up at Lochlan to see an amused smile on his face. He takes a step in, pulling me with him. Is this his meeting or mine?

Welcome. Last night was a big night. I’m glad you can make it, Miss. Mount. And who’s your handsome guest?

I open my mouth, only to close because she’s being nice to me. Lochlan sees my non-response and takes the lead.

Thank God. Lochlan reaches out his hand. Hello, Mrs. Mitchell, I’m Lochlan Masters, Ragan’s one and only. And the reason she’s so late. I’d apologize, but it’s not in my nature.

Could my eyes widen any further? Oh, my God!

I can’t even speak. I barely hear the front door close, and Madeline Mitchell looks between us before leaning in towards me asking, Was it absolutely amazing and epic? 

She backs away, this knowing smile on her face. Oh, God. That was fast. 

How did you figure it out?

I glare at Lochlan, who just shrugs. Asshole. I rip my hand away and elbow his sternum. It only makes him cough, but that doesn’t stop his smirk from broadening. 

Just wait until we’re alone together, creep. He must understand what I’m thinking because he leans in and kisses my cheek, whispering, Was it, princess?

I turn back to see she’s still waiting for an answer. 

Uh—, I stumble with my words because that’s pretty private, isn’t it?

It’s alright. Just answer the question, Miss. Mount. She’s got a serious mother tone going on and I can feel my cheeks blazing. 

Uhm, yes. Yes, it always is. I mumble so low it’s almost inaudible.

My hand gets taken by Lochlan’s larger one and he brings it up to his lips for a sweet, gentle press. Oh, dear God. Really? What’s with all these sweet gestures? It’s making me anxious. Back in Grifton Falls is one thing, but Mrs. Mitchell is pretty much a stranger. 

I yank my hand away and I can’t help but mutter, Would you stop that! This isn't the time for your bull crap.

Lochlan just gives me a wink and then we hear feminine laughter in front of us. 

She’s full on laughing and brings her hands up to cover her nose and mouth as mirth sparkles in her gaze. 

Perfect. Please, come in. You are most welcome, Miss Mount. Mr. Masters, if you two would please follow me to my office.

Lochlan gives my hand another squeeze as we follow along. We come up to a door that’s at least twenty-feet tall— holy moly cannoli. 

Quite so, yes. I look to see Mrs. Mitchell chucking. It’s even better inside.

That’s what he said.

My face heats at Lochlan’s comment but Mrs. Mitchell just laughs out loud.

If he’s lucky, young man.

Lochlan laughs too. I’ve heard you like racy comments, so I figured if the opportunity presents itself, I should make myself useful.

I adore useful men. She sends me a wink and pushes the door wide and oh. My. God. 

Lochlan propels me forward but the moment I step inside? 

Whoa. This is—, I can’t even describe it. It’s like the library in Beauty and the Beast. 

Yes. I said the same when my husband had it built for me.

Your husband did all this? Wow. Some husband.

After making a circle, I look back at Mrs. Mitchell, who’s giving me a wide smile. Do you need a library, Miss Mount? Chase knows a good contractor.

Heat crawls up my face when I shake my head no. No, Mrs. Mitchell. I’m not really a reader, but my best friend is. She’d love this room. 

My mind goes to Willow, who I’ve seen with a different book in her hand every time I see her. She’s a closet romance reader and I just know she’d fall in love with this room. 

You’ll have to bring her next time.

Oh! Well, there might not be a next time. I’m sorry we wasted your time. I don’t know much about MIPP except for a few details my grandmother told me recently. I also know you have your own publisher.

That’s right. But I do like giving smaller publishing houses an opportunity. I’m not exclusive anymore.

That’s nice, but how does that help me out? I don’t want to go back empty handed, but I also don’t want to help Grandma Anita out either. 

I know nothing about the publishing business. Literally nothing. I’ve never—, God, I have no idea what to say. I’m squeezing the life out of Lochlan’s hand for fear of bolting out of this chair and running for the hills. His thumb softly sweeps back and forth, as if that’s going to calm me. 

Mr. Masters, may I call you Lochlan, dear?

Lochlan, who’s been silently calm and sitting next me, hasn’t interfered once. I’m sitting at the edge of my seat and he’s next to me, cool, calm and collected. It calms me but a part of me wishes he would take over. I know how I sound. 

Stupid. 

Yes, ma’am.

May I speak with Miss. Mount alone?

Oh God. I know I look wild eyed when I looked over to him— begging him with my eyes not to leave me alone but what does he do? 

He sighs, leans in and kisses my temple and whispers, You got this princess. You’ll be fine. I’ll be right outside the door.

What? I’m breathless. Is he really going to leave?

Ragan, remember what I said earlier?

You said a lot of things, douchebag.

He smiles and nods, but says, You can do this. Maybe it’s a woman thing.

Sexist pig.

Snorting, he steps up. Traitor. What is he thinking? I don’t want to do this alone. 

2

RAGAN

He stands, and yeah, my eyes go straight to his package. Hey. It’s at eye level. My brain is trying to shut down and this is the only way I know how. 

I’m slowly moving around to liking him more. Especially after our conversation this morning. I opened up to him about some fears and it’s got me nervous about my future. He’s in it, he says, so what can go wrong? He’s so stupidly sexy and arrogant. 

I plead with him one more time and he looks from me to Mrs. Mitchell. Sorry about this, ma’am.

Then he grabs the nape of my neck and bends down, kissing the stuffing right out of me. Oh, his kisses are intoxicating. I bite at his lip, and he opens, sweeping his tongue with mine. It’s over too soon, but he smirks as I stand up and he walks away. Why does he do shit like that? Takes my breath away and then disappears.

Asshole. He just left me. Traitor. He’s such a fucking douchebag.

Another giggle brings me back to Mrs. Mitchell. 

The two of you remind me of younger days. It’s beautiful.

It won’t be so beautiful when I wring his neck.

Mrs. Mitchell laughs and shakes her head. Even when you wanna do that, it’s beautiful. How long has this been going on?

I can’t help but want to tell her the truth. Ever since we were kids. I mean, not the… sex stuff but the animosity towards each other, for forever.

"Darling girl, that boy has no animosity towards you. Looks like he’s fallen head over heels in love with you. But it seems like you’re still in the middle of it, so don’t pay it no mind. 

What is she talking about? Middle of what?

You’re own romance story.

Great. Another romantic. I really don’t know what to say, so I don’t say anything. 

It’s okay. It’s not easy to hear sometimes but nevertheless, it’s true. Just, take your time if you have to. I see he cares for you. Now. About my books.

I hold up my hand. Mrs. Mitchell, while I’m grateful to Travis for this opportunity, I really do know nothing about publishing. My grandmother— honestly, she sprung this up on me. I don’t know what I’m doing. I don’t even know if I want to have her company.

So there’s no rush or anything. That’s good. What do you want to do with it once you get it?

I don’t know. I’m still only a sophomore in college. I haven't even declared a major yet. I just…, Oh, God. Great. Tears burn in my eyes because I’m making an absolute mess out of this. Grandma Anita would scold me until she blew up and while it has some advantages in gaining her sympathy, that’s not how I roll. I don’t want to look stupider than I already do. Why did Lochlan leave me here? He was supposed to help me. 

Oh, darling girl.

Then suddenly I’m wrapped in a warm embrace and smothered by another set of tits. I don’t understand what it is about my face and big boobs. It’s like a magnet. 

Everything will be alright. You’re doing an excellent job.

"I haven’t even—

Nope. But I’ve decided that I like you. It’s good to flounder sometimes before taking the plunge. When I started out, I didn’t know anything either. I just wrote the story that I’ve always wanted to write. And I always loved writing fanfics. But that was just a hobby. At first. After I wrote my first story, I figured that would be that, but then Chase, that overconfident, overbearing, overprotective, know-it-all husband of mine, went above and beyond in finding a publisher and then they loved it so much, it was turned into a movie.

A Mr. Know-it-all? Sounds eerily familiar. "Wow. That’s—

A bit much yes, but he was always my biggest supporter. Told me I shouldn’t settle for just good when I can strive for greatness. When you have a man like that, who’s your biggest fan and best friend and one who knows your worth is a billion times greater than what you think it is, you start believing it and go for it. I see much of Chase in your young man, Ragan. They’re all pricks, but he’s your prick, and if it’s the right one, he’ll be your biggest fan and help you reach for the stars.

That only brought another onslaught of tears because yes, when I’m not self-deprecating, he is like that. I can see that. And maybe… just maybe… I can give in to that just a little. Because Lochlan’s always wanted me to succeed. 

What if he ends up just taking over? I don’t have much self-control left. I’m floundering. I don’t know what the hell I’m doing. I honestly wasn’t thinking of my future when my grandmother put me up to this. She has a habit of blackmail or coercion, and I didn’t want to do this, but I didn’t like my other option. So here I am. She even told me to sleep with your son for an opportunity to have a meeting with you.

That takes her back, and she starts laughing. "I see. That’s why Travis was so amused when he was talking about the fiery little girl he met. Although he did speak of the bruiser you came with. People like her, like how my father-in-law used to be, they don’t understand the matters of the heart. They see wealth and status as the most important symbols in life. Although you’re a very beautiful young lady, Travis wouldn’t have taken advantage of you or the situation. He’s much like his father that way. So what do you want to do?"

Is it bad that I still don’t know? I must choose something soon, but what if I’m not cut out for it?

You’ll never know if you don’t try. Let’s see, hold on one moment. She gets up and walks towards a big mahogany desk and reaches for a phone. She punched a few buttons and then puts her ear to the phone. Yes, hi, this is Madeline Mitchell. Hi, Adam, yes. Is William available? I know it’s Sunday and while I hate disturbing him on a Sunday, I think this qualifies as important.

She turns to me, smiles and throws up her pointer finger telling me to hold on a moment. Sorry, honey, just bear with me a moment. If I can swing it, this will probably be better than anything else.

I shrug my shoulders and nod. Sure. I have no idea what’s going on, but she obviously knows what she’s doing, so I’ll just wait patiently. 

Hi, William. I’m terribly sorry to bother you on a Sunday. Yes. Of course, that’s nice of you. Yes, I have a guest here I want to bring to the publishing house for a tour. She is a future publishing house head— she’s not stealing me from out underneath you, don’t worry. You know I like selling my books to unknown small presses at times. Besides you know I write under a few different pen names. Right. Thank you. Well, she’s come to visit, and I’d like to set up a time to show her the inner workings of a top competitor house. Her name is Ragan Mount. Oh, well yes that’s— William. Yes, I know Anita Mount is a dragon. Like Smaug is a dragon, not Toothless. However, I think this will benefit everyone. 

There was a sharp tone in her voice that brokered no argument, and I didn’t really understand what she was talking about. It benefited everyone? She’s been nice to me, also mothering me a little and that, well, I’m a stranger. Why is she trying to help me? 

Set it up for the new year on— wait a moment. Ragan, do you already have your classes set for next year?

Yes, ma’am.

Do you have free time during the week?

Can I look on my phone real quick?

Go ahead. I’ll talk business with Will. Make him keep me company.

I nod, grabbing my phone. Yes. Thank you. I might not be sure I want to take over Grandma Anita’s company, but Mrs. Mitchell is giving me the opportunity to at least see what I would be doing in one. Like Lochlan and her said, no harm in trying. It’s not like I have anything else big planned. I go to the GFU app and look at my schedule for the spring semester.

I raise my hand, getting her attention and I tell her I can do it Wednesdays after ten. That was my short day since I usually work in the admin office from 11-2. I can always rearrange that, so I can go. But wait. 

"Mrs. Mitchell—

Call me Maddy, honey.

Maddy, thank you for the opportunity but even after I get done with classes, that’s still a four-hour drive here and I don’t know where the publishing house is.

It’s in New York, of course. And I would arrange a flight to pick you from Grifton Falls to New York in the Mitchell's private plane, of course. It can pick you up from Dallas if you can get there by eleven and we’d leave by eleven thirty. However, it would be a long day, we wouldn’t be back until late at night. I definitely don’t want you to not get your rest.

It’s not a big deal. My Thursday class starts at ten.

Oh, that’s wonderful. I’ll set it up and send you the details via text. How does that sound?

Go to New York with Madeline Mitchell? I would be a fool to say no. She’s been more helpful than my grandmother has ever been. Yes, ma’am. That sounds amazing.

She turns away and speaks quietly into her phone before disconnecting and coming back to sit down across from me. Well, that’s done. Seeing the inside of a publishing house will do you a world of good, especially if your grandmother isn’t willing to help. Doing it with a person who doesn’t even know you, and is a great mentor and CEO, is going to be a big help. They won’t be biased or put a ton of pressure on you. She reaches for my clasped hands, giving them a squeeze, and giving me a tender look, which strikes straight to my heart. Not many people are so free with their emotions. 

I don’t know why you’d go to such lengths for a stranger, but I’m grateful. I still don’t know what I want to do, but this would help me choose. I’m not sure I’m smart enough to run a company. God. I’m not even twenty-one.

It can be pretty daunting. Chase told me he took over when he was twenty-three. Had bigger, more broader goals and his father agreed when he knew it would benefit him financially. While I would hope she will at least let you graduate and get what you need done, what about Lochlan? Is he still in school? By the looks of him, he almost looks thirty.

A laugh bursts free and I bowl over. I can see that. If I was a stranger, Lochlan would look like a big, older brute. But being close to him for years, I’ve never thought that. He graduates this semester. He already works with his dad.

Yes. That’s wonderful. Well, I mention him to you because you should let that handsome young man help you. Men like that are at their best helping others realize their potential. Even if it means telling them what to do at times.

I snort. Yeah. With an arrogant cocky smirk attached.

Maddy laughs. Oh, sweetheart. That’s the best way sometimes. Makes for a better alone time later. She says with a wink. I’d also say make him pay for leaving you in here all alone, too. She winks. 

Oh, yeah. That’s a given. Creep.

She laughs more and reaches across, taking my hands in hers. 

"So here’s what we’ll do, we’ll go to New York sometime in January, bring him along with you if you want, and then when or if you, Ragan Mount, ever decide to take over MIPP, and it’s yours one hundred percent, we'll approach the matter again. I never liked Anita Mount. There’s just something very wicked about her I've never liked. I’m sorry, I know she’s your grandmother—

Don’t worry, Mrs. Mitchell. She’s evil incarnate. Always has been.

Mrs. Mitchell gives me a sad look and once again, gives my hands a squeeze. Then it’s settled. When you’re ready, or if you don't, that’s fine. But I think you’ll surprise yourself if you head full steam ahead. Looks like that young man would bend over backwards to make sure you have everything you’ve ever dreamed of. And call me Maddy. I think we’re going to accomplish many great things in the future. Just know you have time. The publishing world is vast, but you have friends here in Houston, Ragan. You have help. You only need to ask it. Once I introduce you to William, your connections will broaden. It’s a starting point.

I nod, feeling a little better about this meeting. It’s not what grandmother Anita wants and I’m sure I’ll hear all about how useless I am when I tell her. Mrs. Mitchell?

Maddy, honey. And what is it?

Do I need to tell my grandmother anything?

She tilts her head, looking me over. You can tell her as little or as much as you want. I won’t publish under Anita Mount. However, if it puts you in a position where you feel as if you can’t move forward, then also let me know. You'll have plenty of opportunities here. I see how Anita operates. She’s not always forthcoming with information.

Yeah. You’re totally right about that. That’s why I didn’t understand why she wanted me to come here in the first place.

Probably thinking I’d be willing to see you and you could schmooze your way into my good graces. You’re in my good graces anyway, but because of what you’ve shown me so far of your character.

There’s not much.

Laughing, Maddy shakes her head. Nonsense. I’m sure you’ll surprise yourself. Just have a little faith.

She stands up and I follow, walking out of her office to see Lochlan’s back is towards me, and he’s talking to Mr. Mitchell and Travis. I see them shake hands. What’s going on there? Would he tell me if I asked? Would he trust me enough to share his own burdens?

Seems as though Travis notices us first though because his smile widens. He maneuvers around his father and Lochlan and is almost to me, his arms wide for a hug when he’s cut off by a faster Lochlan, who’s got him by his sport coat collar, pulling him back and around him, so I get the big broad view of Lochlan’s back. 

Don’t even think about it, Mitchell.

I gasp at the animosity in Lochlan’s voice. "Lochlan! Don’t be rude! His parents are—

Quite alright with public displays of possessiveness. Isn’t that right, Mr. Mitchell? Mrs. Mitchell walks to her husband who all of a suddenly grabs her by the nape of her neck, and practically sucks the soul right out of her body. 

Nobody shows me up in my own house, Maddy-mine.

I don’t get it. Travis sighs, rolling his eyes. He’s obviously immune to his parents displays of affection. 

Oh, saw how he ravished her lips, did you?

I lean into Lochlan and whisper, Who ravished who? Looks like he just sucked the soul right out of her.

The three Mitchell’s laugh heartily while I’m still confused. Lochlan has this knowing smile on his face and he turns to me saying, He saw me kiss you in his wife’s library.

Oh. My face heats double time. 

"You know, when he sucked the soul right out of your mouth." Travis said and this teasing smile lifts high on his face. 

Reminds me of the AD’s and I can’t help but give him a narrow look. Don’t be a douchebag, Travis Mitchell or you’ll end up like this one and his buddies.

Lochlan laughs, wrapping an arm around me. Did you set out to do what you needed, princess?

I think so. Maybe. I don’t know.

Maddy laughs and says, We discussed a lot in fact. She can tell you everything or anything she wants. However, seems like you have some making up to do, young man. For leaving her all alone with this old woman.

Old woman? Who? Never you, mother.

Chase Mitchell snickers, That’s right, son. Because if she’s an old woman, I’m decrepit and I still have many good years left to me.

"Behave, Chase Mitchell or else—

Mom, please. Let’s save these two the embarrassing view of the two of you sucking face.

Chase Mitchell grunts and pulls Maddy in once more. And then grabs her ass. 

Sweet baby Jesus.

I shove my face into Lochlan’s arm, heat rushing up my face. Lochlan wraps his arm around me, pulling me into his embrace, my face smothered by the crease in his arm. 

Come on, princess. Time to hit the road. He takes a step back, grabs my hand and walks forward, giving Travis Mitchell an irritated eye roll, but then sticks his hand out. I’d say it was nice to meet you, but you danced with my future before I could. So, technically, I should really punch your lights out.

Holy crap. There’s a very dark, dangerous undertone to Lochlan’s voice and it doesn’t not turn me on. I really like his dangerous side, but here, while he’s right, doesn’t matter. I’m pretty sure I’m not dancing with anyone but him from now on. He’s amazing. 

Lochlan, behave.

Don’t worry, Lochlan Masters, I’m pretty sure she’s never dancing with anyone but you for now on. So, no punching necessary. Next time, grow a pair and pull her out on the dance floor first. Travis Mitchell flicks his gaze to me, winks and saunters off with no care in the world. 

Right. Well, I guess we should head out. Maddy, thank you so much for agreeing to see me.

Yes, I’ll get in touch with you soon about New York.

New York? Both Lochlan and Chase Mitchell speak simultaneously, and Lochlan turns to me, brow crunched. 

Let’s talk about it in the car. I need to go to the hotel and pack.

He nods, not forcing the conversation, so I’m thankful for that. He shakes Mr. Mitchell’s hand and nods to Maddy. Who unexpectedly comes to the both of us and reaches around us, pulling us in for a hug. Y’all haven’t gotten to the fun part yet, kids. Invite me to the wedding, I bet it’ll be spectacular.

I gasp, almost backing away if Lochlan hadn’t been holding me in. 

Wedding? I gasp and Lochlan sighs. 

Thank you for your hospitality, Mrs. Mitchell. However, I wasn’t planning on her having a panic attack so soon.

The two older adults look at me and yeah, I feel it coming on. 

Oh, dear. I’m so sorry. But I did tell you, you were in the middle of it, Ragan. Just breathe. One day. One hour. One minute. One second at a time. And it was my pleasure. I see great things for the future.

They walk us out and I’m being led by the hand as Lochlan opens the passenger side door. I manage to get in, but he leans in and whispers, I’m right here. No wedding in sight. Just me. You. Quick sex in the hotel before we start the trip home, princess. Can you manage that? I nod and he kisses my cheek. Good. I wanna go home, mo chuisle. Don’t you?

I nod again, flabbergasted. He shuts the door and walks out of sight as I see Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell standing just outside their door. Maddy waves, albeit a bit awkwardly and I do the same. 

Marriage?

I’m not ready to say anything like that out loud. They’re all crazy. 

3

At the Mitchell’s residence…

Maddy

I like her. I tell Chase as I wave once more at the young couple who remind me of Chase and myself in our beginning. Unlike Chase though, Lochlan Masters is completely run by his emotions. God, the way he couldn’t take his eyes off her and her being completely oblivious to it. They’re just at their beginning. It’s sweet. I think Grifton Falls has some potential, husband. Don’t you?

He nuzzled into my neck, and I eat his affection up like candy. I can’t get enough even after all this time.

Maddy-mine, I see a bright future ahead of us as always. The Mount girl has a lot to offer if she takes a hold of MIPP.

Oh, discussed it with the boy, did you? I look up to see his handsome face turn mischievous. He knows something. Oh, what did they speak about? Chase Mitchell. Tell me right this instant.

Sorry, my love. Some things just have to play out naturally.

Naturally, my ass! Tell me!

No. But maybe I’ll let you get it out of me eventually. Starting tonight.

Oh, you are bad, Mr. Mitchell. Maybe I’ll just have to get out Mr. BNR and leave you to fend for yourself. I stomp, swirling around him and walk my walk through the foyer. 

Of, course, I don’t make it far when he grabs my back belt loop and hauls me in his arms. You’re so sweet to bring my other dick into the picture.

You know what I always say, why have one dick when two is better? I step away, face him with a big smile and take a step backwards. Then two steps.

Oh, you know I love it when you’re a bad naughty bitch for me, wife.

He takes a step towards me in that predatorial gait he has, and it sends a thrill up my spine. Chase Lincoln Mitchell, behave.

Never.

Squealing, I turn, laughing as I race up the stairs. My ever-needy husband hot on my heels. 

He’ll tell me. He always does. We haven’t seen the last of Grifton Falls or that beautiful young couple. 

Life, as always, seems to be right on time for another adventure.

4

RAGAN

After another hour fooling around in the hotel room, he helps me pack and I see a suit bag and case in the closet. 

How did that get here?

I texted Gabe last night and had him send my bag from my room at the other hotel to here, so the two of us can go back home together.

What makes you think I want to spend the next four hours with you?

Smiling, he steps up to me and I push my head back to see him. We have a lot to talk about. I also want to spend time with you. Maybe misbehave a little.

He winks, bending to grab my suitcase. Misbehave? I want to go home. We misbehaved enough as it is, Lochlan.

I know. Me too, however, there’s a place I want to stop at and maybe if you’re brave enough, you’ll just follow my lead.

I have no idea what you’re talking about.

I know, come on.

We’re two hours into the drive, when we’ve discussed everything about what Maddy and I discussed. Lochlan was surprised and yet he said he figured as much. 

Ragan, I think it’s a great idea. But only if it’s what you want, princess.

I—, my heart begins to race, and I fidget with the shirt Lochlan shoved over my head after we had hot sex when we got back to the hotel room.