“That’s great to hear. Sounds like you’ve got a pretty great background in retail." I say, genuinely impressed.
She softens her voice a little while saying, "I've honestly always been drawn to places like this, you know, places with character."
I can't help but smile at that. It’s not every day you find someone with such a genuine appreciation for the world I’ve built within these walls. It makes the idea of hiring her feel a little less daunting, and a little more…right.
“So, you’re looking for something long term?” I ask, leaning against the counter now, more relaxed. “What kind of hours are you looking for?”
“I’m flexible,” she replies with a shrug. “I can work as much as you need. I’m single and don’t have any children, so my schedule is wide open. Honestly, I just want to be part of something that means something to me, you know?”
I turn and look at my men, and Beau nods ever so slightly. A small approving smile tugging at his lips. Jackson, as usual, gives me a brief, silent glance that I can’t quite read. But something tells me we’re all on the same page. She might just be the person I have been waiting for.
“Alright,” I say, finally breaking the silence and turning back to Dayla. “You seem like a good fit, and like you said, you already know your way around. How about you stick around with us today, and I can show you everything youneed to know about running the store? Your first official day alone can be tomorrow.” ??
Dayla’s eyes brighten even more, and she grins ear to ear. “That sounds perfect! I promise you won’t regret letting me in.”
I chuckle, “Alright, then. Welcome aboard! Let's get started.”
She lets out a small squeal of excitement. I can't help but laugh at her energy. This is going to be interesting, but in the best way possible.
Chapter 6
Aria
The sharp scent of gunpowder surrounds me as I grip the handgun that made me cum just a few nights ago. My eyes flick to the target in front of me, then back to the guys standing just behind me. Jackson’s tall frame is to my right, his expression as serious as ever, while Beau stands on my left, his usual calm demeanor laced with that familiar mischievous smile.
“Alright, babe, hold it like this,” Jackson says, moving slightly closer, his hands guiding mine into position. His fingers are gentle, positioning my grip on the handle. His body is so close. I can feel the warmth radiating from him. For a second, my nerves almost fade just from his comfort.
Beau, on the other hand, is watching me closely. His eyes scan my every movement. “You’ve got this, sweetheart. Just breathe.” He says with a reassuring tone.
I nod, trying to focus. The gun feels heavier than expected, the pressure of the moment settling on my shoulders. With a deep breath, I align the sights with the target. I trymy best to steady my hands. “Okay…here it goes.” I slowly squeeze the trigger.
BANG
The shot echoes through the range. I immediately feel the sting of disappointment wash through me when I glance at the target. Nothing. Just the smooth, untouched paper mocking me.
“Well, that was…a good try,” Jackson says, his voice light, trying to mask the amusement that I can see in both of their eyes. “But try again, babe. You’ll get it…eventually.”
I turn, flipping Jackson a rude gesture. I bite my lip, feeling the pang of frustration take over. Another deep breath, and I raise the gun again. This time, I pull the trigger a little quicker, hoping for some magic, but the result is the same. Another miss.
My shoulders slump slightly. I feel my face heat up with embarrassment. I know I shouldn’t get discouraged. Hitting that target is harder than it looks. I would rather be at home right now, curled up with a good book. That doesn’t require any hand eye coordination.
“Don’t sweat it,” Beau says. “You’re just getting warmed up.”
Before I can respond, Beau steps up behind me, his presence surrounding me as he wraps his arms around mine. His hands gently guiding mine on the gun. The scent ofhim, leather and an earthy smell, fills my senses helping me focus.
“Relax and just let me guide you." He mutters, his breath warm against my ear, sending chills down my spine.
Jackson moves to stand beside us, his eyes never leaving me, like he’s waiting for the moment that I finally hit the target. But all I can focus on is Beau, his hands on mine, steadying me.
“Alright, baby, now take a deep breath. Hold the gun steady, and when you’re ready, fire.” Beau’s voice is so calm, so sure of me, I can’t help but trust him. I exhale slowly, steadying the gun once more.
I take the shot, and for a split second, I hold my breath.
BANG
This time, when I lower my arms, I see it. The bullet hit the target. Not the bullseye, but damn close.
A rush of excitement surges through me. I turn to both of them, grinning like an idiot. I press my lips to Beau's first, then quickly turn to kiss Jackson, the sweet taste of victory on my lips.
