“Way, way, way down the line. Maybe. Let’s focus on getting through today.” A wry grin tugs at the corner of his lips.
“I’m going to remind you of this later when you realize how much youdon’tneed to ‘get through’ today. Not only will they love you, but I think you’re going to lovethem.”
“Okay. But if you see me floundering, don’t leave me hanging.”
“Deal.” He reaches over, taking my hand in his.
It’s another couple of hours before we arrive. We pass the time in fun and easy conversation, and I’ve learned a few facts about Ryder’s family, so I have some talking points at least.
Although we’ve discussed Ry’s previous relationships, I’ve kept pretty quiet about mine. Not because it’s bad, but because for the past few years, the only families I’ve been introduced to were my clients’—weddings, special occasions. Wealthy men don’t want to show any chink in their armor, and that’s where I came in.
I was the doting girlfriend, knowing I would never see these people again. It’s not something I want to admit to or dredge up when everything is going so well for us. I stopped taking on any new escorting jobs after I signed the contract with Ryder. I didn’t feel right about it, and I understand where he was coming from, even though I think he was a bit of an ass for how he approached it, but in hindsight, I wouldn’t like it if he were selling himself to the women of Manhattan.
When we finally pull up, I take a minute to calm my nerves, check my makeup, and brush my hair.
“You look phenomenal.”
“I’m nervous.”
He gently cups my face in his hands. “Look at me.” I do as he asks. “I’ve got you. Do you think I would throw you to the wolves?”
“No.” He presses his lips to mine.
“If you can let me get you off in a club full of people, you will absolutely survive dinner with my family.” I relax into his touch.
“The reward for that was totally worth it,” I say with a smirk.
“Trust me, there’s a reward coming your way when we get back to my place tomorrow.” Fireflies take flight in the pit of my stomach, knowing that I’ll be screaming his name and begging for more.
Before Ryder turns off the engine, beautiful double doors open, and two women edge outside. I’m assuming they are his mom and sister, and the family genes run strong. You could pick them out of a crowd as related. His mom is stunning, and his sister, I’m intimidated before I even set foot on the gravel driveway.
“You’re overthinking already.”
Ryder quickly jumps out of the car and comes around to open the door for me, his hand steadying me as I try to exit the car with some modicum of grace. His smile is so bright and genuine as he slips his hand in mine and pulls me toward the house.
“Ryder! We’ve missed you,” his mom says as we reach the steps, Ryder letting go of my hand to wrap his arms around her.
“Mom, Daisy, I’d like you to meet, Aspen.” His sister hugs me, which I wasn’t prepared for.
“It’s so nice to meet you. Ry is always so secretive about girlfriends. You must be something special.”
I turn to Ryder, his grin warming my heart. He looks proud.
“It’s nice to meet you, Daisy. Ry has told me so much about all of you.”
“Good things, I hope.” His mother smiles, holding her hand out to shake mine. “I’m Elsbeth.”
“Hello, I’m Aspen. Thank you for the invite to your home.” Ryder has her smile. It soothes me as she beckons me inside.
Daisy falls into step with Ryder. “Everyone is here. As soon as Mom said you were bringing your girlfriend over, the boysdropped everything to come.” My nerves threaten to overwhelm me as we navigate our way to the kitchen.
Ry moves to my side, his hand resting on the small of my back. “Breathe, baby girl.” His term of endearment settles my stomach, and I can’t help wondering about the conversation we had on the way up here. Is this what being a full-time sub would be? That sense of calm in the chaos.
I recognize Ryder’s brother the moment we walk in. Jude is going to be so jealous. Griffin Stevens is every inch the hockey heartthrob, radiating the same sly grin as his brother.
“Ry! Where the hell have you been, bro?” Ryder is set upon by Griffin and the twins.
“I own a restaurant. I’m a busy guy.”
