Conceited Concierge: A Hero Club Novel Read online

  She passed the phone back to me. “Thank you.”

  “You’re welcome.” Aubrey looked between me and Levi, and asked, “How do you guys like working at the same place?”

  I spoke first. “I like it. Levi brings me a coffee practically every morning.”

  Aubrey held her hand over her heart. “That is really sweet.”

  Levi chimed in. “I get to see her gorgeous face every day. I have no complaints. You should see her work. She does amazing.”

  “Oh stop,” I told him. Why couldn’t I take a compliment?

  Levi leaned in. “She’s being modest, but I have seen the changes she has made on the inside of the hotel and it’s like a whole new place.”

  “I can’t wait to see it then,” Aubrey said.

  “Yeah, maybe we can take a drive over and check it out,” Chance said, his deep Australian accent revealing itself.

  “It would be cool for you to come by and see it.”

  After dinner, I helped Aubrey clean up even though she insisted I relax with my second glass of wine.

  We were talking about the shelter she worked at. Then she got really personal. “Do you want kids?”

  “I’d like to but I feel like I might be too old now.”

  “No. I see women having babies in their forties.”

  “We could always adopt,” Levi blurted as he entered the room.

  Aubrey laughed. My cheeks probably turned red.

  “Oh my god.” I looked to Aubrey. “Nothing is private with this guy around.”

  She shrugged. I shook my head.

  “I came in here to see if you wanted to take a walk on the beach before we leave.”

  I looked to Aubrey. I didn’t want to be rude.

  “Let’s say goodbye now and we’ll head home after we walk.”

  “I feel like we just got here.” However, we’d been there for three hours, and Aubrey and Chance probably wanted to take advantage of their alone time. Who could blame them?

  “Go, you two,” Aubrey came over and hugged me and then Levi. I hugged Chance, and he shook Levi’s hand then offered a half hug. “Can you believe these two are related?” Aubrey asked.

  “Actually, I can.”

  We laughed

  Levi took hold of my hand as Aubrey and Chance waved us off.

  Bending down, I took my sandals off, Levi followed suit then took my hand again. It felt nice as my toes dug in the sand and the waves crashed in. Darkness surrounded us and the only light came from the bright moon.

  I finally spoke breaking the silence. “I had a nice time tonight.”

  “Me, too. It was nice catching up with them. I definitely should be hanging out with Chance more cause he’s family.”

  “Yes. Family is important. And those two are real couple goals.”

  “Couple goals, huh?”

  “Yeah. They are perfect for each other. And he pursued her pretty hard when she was dating another guy when Chance got out of jail way back when.”

  “Must run in the Bateman family then,” I teased.

  “I can’t help myself around you, Cupcake.”

  We walked hand in hand. I was giving Levi hope that he and I had a chance. How much of a chance did we have? What if I decided to leave once my job was completed? Those thoughts plagued my mind constantly. The last thing I wanted to do was hurt Levi. I didn’t want to be responsible for breaking his heart if it didn’t work out. And I sure as hell didn’t want mine broken a second time.

  “What are you thinking in that pretty head of yours?”

  “You don’t want to know.”

  “I do. Tell me.”

  We were already at the end of the beach and we turned to head back in the direction we came.

  “I don’t want to hurt you. And I don’t want to get hurt myself. Another heart break would probably break me.”

  “I told you I wouldn’t do that.”

  “But I can’t guarantee I won’t. Because I don’t know what the future holds for me. The last thing I want to do is hurt you in the process.”

  “You’re afraid because you have no control over this. You keep fighting what is between us. I can wait, Cupcake. I got all the time.”

  “You’re crazy.”

  “And you love it.”

  Levi never let go of my hand. “Why me, Levi? You could have a woman your own age, she could have your babies and you can grow old together.”

  “Why not you, Rylee? You can give me as much as any other woman could. Yes, we could run into obstacles, but I don’t care. I want to be with you. I want to show you and give you what you deserve. I wish you would let me.”

  “Give me a little time, okay?”

  “Like I said, I have all the time in the world. I’d wait forever for you, Cupcake. I’m in it for keeps.”

  “Now you’re trying to make me blush, Conceited.”

  “I like when your cheeks turn red. Too bad it’s too dark for me to see.”

  Back to my car, Levi pulled me into him, wrapping his arms around my waist. I wrapped my arms around his neck and rested my head on his chest, allowing him to hug me. I’ll admit, it felt nice being held with no expectations. Levi was gonna make me fall for him. I knew it.

  “Thank you.” I separated myself from him.

  “For what?” His hands rested on my arms even though I stepped back.

  “Being you. Being persistent. Continuing to prove what you want even though I’m hard-headed.”

  “Well, I’m not going to thank you for being stubborn.” He smirked. “But thank you for allowing me to. Tell me one thing.”

  I looked up, meeting his eyes.

  “Tell me you feel it, too. That’s all the confirmation I need right now.”

  “I feel it, Levi. More and more as each day passes. But that’s all I’m going to admit.”

  “Okay. You ready to get this show on the road?”

  “I’m ready.”

  When I looked up, I saw Aubrey looking out her window. She saw our whole exchange.

  Chapter Nine

  RYLEE

  It had been a week since we were at Aubrey and Chance’s place for dinner. Work was keeping me busy. Levi handed me a coffee every morning without fail. I appreciated him so much. He gave me enough space so I could mend my heart but at the same time, he was letting me know he was here, waiting for me.

  He made me happy, he made me laugh, and it was easy with him. We’d share a bottle of wine and talk out on the long porch of the hotel for hours when we were done with our shifts. He’d show me all the dippers in the starry night sky and I would happily look up in amazement. Sometimes we’d sit in silence and enjoy the calm and quiet of the country life. And I have to say, this kind of life, I could get used to. This kind of life seemed perfect to me.

  One thing was for certain. Levi was breaking down my walls. Slowly but surely. I felt myself slowly starting to give in to him.

  This evening, after work, I was in my room texting with Aubrey to see how she was doing.

  Hey chick, how’s it going? – Rylee

  Good. How are you? How’s work? – Aubrey

  It’s good. I’m still ahead of schedule. – Rylee

  Do you ever get a day off from working? – Aubrey

  I’m going to start taking weekends off because I’m ahead of schedule. – Rylee

  Good. You need a break. You work too damn much, Ry. – Aubrey

  It’s how I was raised. - Rylee

  Look, Chance and I going away for the weekend, and the kids will be spending the weekend with Adele. Pixy will be at daycare. So, if you wanted to use our house for the weekend, you could. – Aubrey. And if you wanted to bring Levi, I wouldn’t be mad about it. Clean up whatever you use. ??

  I appreciate your offer. Let me think about it. – Rylee

  Okay. Let me know what you decide. – Aubrey

  ***

  “How was work?” Levi asked as we sat at the bar for a drink and dinner.

  “Good. I decided to take w
eekends off since I’m still ahead of schedule.”

  “Great. I can get you all to myself then.” Levi was a little too happy about that.

  “I have a proposition.”

  “A proposition? This ought to be good.”

  I had his full attention. “Aubrey offered her house up for the weekend. Apparently, she and Chance are going away for the weekend, and the kids will be with Adele. I was thinking, maybe we can get away.”

  “Yeah. I’m so down.”

  “Then it’s a deal.”

  “It’s a date,” Levi countered.

  I didn’t argue because I was willing to test the waters.

  “I’m not promising anything.”

  “It’s fine. We get to spend some time alone. And I can woo you.”

  I couldn’t help but laugh.

  “Should I tell Aubrey?”

  “Yeah. What are you waiting for?”

  I pulled out my phone to text Aubrey. Talked to Levi and we would love to use your house for the weekend.

  Perfect. You don’t have to worry about anything. Except clean what you dirty and you might need to bring food.

  Thanks, girl. We could use a getaway. I might give Levi a chance.

  OMG! That would be amazing. Maybe one day we’ll be family.

  One day at a time, girl.

  I’m so excited for you guys. I love Levi and I love you. You guys would make a great couple. I don’t even see the age difference. Besides, I think Levi balances you out in certain ways and you do the same for him. I’m crossing my fingers for you guys. - Aubrey

  You don’t have any hidden cameras in your house, do you?

  No. We do not. But if anything happens, you should fill me in on all the deets. - Aubrey

  Fine. Maybe we will stay until Monday and I can volunteer at the shelter you work at. - Rylee

  That would be amazing. -Aubrey

  Alright, I’m going to let you go. I’m sitting at the bar with Levi.

  Of course you are. Talk to you later. - Aubrey

  I couldn’t deny the attraction and the connection Levi and I shared. If age didn’t matter to him, why should it matter to me?

  I looked at Levi as I took a sip of my beer. “I said we would volunteer at the shelter Aubrey works at on Monday. You down to join me?”

  “Don’t you have to work Monday?”

  “I’m sure I can move things around. Do you have to work?”

  “I start my new position on Wednesday. So, I’m down. I love animals and I know you do, too.”

  “Perfect. We’ll have to shop for food.”

  “Yeah, we’ll need food to keep our energy up.”

  “Oh my god.”

  “Relax, Cupcake. I’m teasing.”

  “I know.”

  “Well, your cheeks turned red.”

  “Stop trying to embarrass me.”

  “I’m looking forward to relaxing on the beach and drinking beer.”

  “Sounds like heaven to me.”

  A look went across Levi’s face like he was going to say something dirty, but he was resisting.

  Placing a hand on my hip, I said, “You might as well say it, because I know you’re thinking it.”

  “What do you mean?”

  “Don’t try to look innocent now, Levi.”

  He took his fingers and zipped them over his lips.

  We finished our meal and our drink. Levi spun his stool to face me and took my hand. “Come on, let me show you something.”

  “Where are we going?”

  “I’m going to show you.”

  This man always had me guessing what he was going to do next. But I knew I was safe with him and he would never put me in any danger. He always made me feel comfortable even though he tried to make me blush on a regular basis.

  Levi led us outside and I saw we were headed to the barn. Stepping inside, he flipped on a light switch and all the twinkle lights flashed on.

  “Did you put these lights in?”

  “I did. It gives it an ambiance. I figured if couples want to experience wine tasting with a romantic feel to it, this would be perfect.”

  “It’s definitely romantic and rustic. I love it.”

  Levi went behind the bar, grabbing a bottle of wine and two glasses.

  “I figured you might like it.”

  “It would be a good selling point. Like you said, for couples.”

  “Alright, turn that work brain off for a minute and let’s enjoy this sweet wine.”

  “Oh.” I lifted my eyebrows in surprise. “Yes, sir.”

  He passed me a glass and sat on the stool next to me, but we turned to face each other. I was smiling like a kid with their favorite candy. I had this gorgeous man in front of me, patiently waiting for me to come to my senses. I’ll admit, I was starting to come around to the idea. But still, it was scary to jump into another relationship.

  Was Levi trying to be romantic by bringing me here? If so, I liked this side of him.

  “Do you know how hard it is not to kiss you right now?”

  “What’s stopping you?”

  By the look on his face, he was taken back by my response. And to be honest, so was I.

  “You mean, you won’t punch me if I try?”

  I smirked. “Is it worth taking the risk?” I was feeling ballsy all of a sudden. I didn’t know what came over me.

  We were done with our wine and Levi hopped off his stool. “Come on, I’ll walk you to your room.”

  Did I say something wrong? Was it a game to him to see how far he could push me? I was really confused.

  He took my hand again and we started to head toward the exit sign of the barn. My heart was racing inside my chest for the first time in ages. Levi suddenly stopped and pulled me against him. I looked into his eyes and saw the emotional shift. I could get lost in his light-colored eyes as his gaze captured mine. He was giving me plenty of time to step back, but I didn’t. I was tired of fighting this. Levi leaned in slowly, his eyes moving to look at my lips, and I did the same. Then our lips crashed. Our kiss was anything but slow and steady. It was rushed and passionate. Also, how could I forget how he kissed? Because we did a lot of that when we met in Las Vegas.

  Clearly, it was hard to stop, but I needed a minute to breathe. I placed a hand on Levi’s chest and pushed off him.

  “What’s wrong?”

  I smiled. “Nothing. I need a minute to breathe.”

  “Are you saying I take your breath away, Cupcake?”

  I slapped his arm playfully. “Walk me to my room, Conceited.”

  Chapter Ten

  LEVI

  It was the weekend. The weekend I’d get to spend with Rylee with zero interruptions. The weekend I’d get to show her what kind of life we could have together. No, I wasn’t saying we should get married tomorrow, but I did want to explore this connection we shared. Thank god, she shared the same feeling as me.

  I stopped at Rylee’s door. It was closed, so I knocked.

  She opened her door wearing a pink tank top and a pair of denim cut-off shorts. Her hair was up in a ponytail and she had a little more makeup on than usual. “You look beautiful.”

  She looked down at herself. “Oh, thank you. Always paying me compliments or caffeinating me up,” she teased.

  “I aim to please, Rylee.” I took her overnight bag.

  “Let’s get this show on the road, Conceited.” She smiled wide, while wrapping her arm around mine as we walked out of the hotel. I couldn’t get over that I would have Rylee all to myself for a whole weekend. I’d be able to get to know her more and show her more of me.

  “You drive,” she ordered, tossing her keys to me.

  “I’m becoming a regular chauffeur.”

  “Only because I don’t know my way around.”

  I winked at her. “I’m happy to help.” Taking her hand, I kissed her fingers.

  “Don’t forget we should stop and get food before we get there,” she reminded me.

  “Oh, that reminds
me.” I quickly pointed at a bag in the backseat. “Grab that bag.”

  Reaching for the bag, she glanced inside. “You got all this.”

  “I didn’t know what you liked so I got all the candy and all the snacks.”

  “Wow.” She dug inside and pulled out some laffy taffy. “I love these. Banana is my favorite flavor.”

  “Alright. Now I know. I do know you like ho-hos and starburst. I couldn’t find ho-hos but I did get starburst for you.”

  “Thank you.”

  Even though the ride to Hermosa Beach was an hour and a half drive, I wanted Rylee to be comfortable and enjoy the ride, and if there was one thing I knew about her, she loved her snacks.

  ***

  Once we were in Hermosa Beach, we stopped at a local grocery store. “We probably don’t need much, since we can go out for breakfast and/or dinners,” I suggested.

  “I think we should each cook one meal and see who is the best cook.”

  “Oh. Challenge accepted. And I’m so gonna win,” I told her.

  “We’ll see about that.”

  “But tonight, let’s go out.”

  “Sounds good to me.”

  Once we had everything we needed, we headed to Aubrey and Chance’s place.

  “I do love this beach town. I should come here more often and see the kids, too. I feel bad because I was always traveling and now, I’m still over an hour and a half away.”

  “Well, it doesn’t have to be permanent. You’re still young and can put down roots anywhere you want.”

  “You can, too.”

  She shrugged. “I feel like if I don’t do it now, then it’ll be a little too late.”

  “So, do it now.”

  She laughed. “That’s hard to do since I’m here for a project.”

  That comment through me for a loop. And I didn’t know how to respond. She wasn’t planning on sticking around. Why were we even doing this then?

  “What can I do to convince you to stay?”

  “Honestly? I don’t know. Let’s see how things go first. Okay?”

  I was hopeful. “That’s all I can ask for. Don’t give up.”

  “You’ll probably be so sick of me after this weekend, you’ll be glad to go back.”