Painful Consequences Read online

  “Hi, Harry. You’re very pretty.”

  “Feed me! Feed me! Meow!” The bird climbed upright onto his perch and began to bob his head as he shuffled back and forth. Reed gave him a grape. Promptly, Harry consumed it and then demanded more.

  “May I feed him?” Brittany asked.

  “Sure, just watch your fingers. He tends to be a bit greedy,” he cautioned, handing her a grape.

  “Here you go, Harry. What…?” Brittany exclaimed as the happy animal hopped onto her forearm and held his foot out for a grape.

  “I guess he likes you,” Reed laughed, seeing her surprise.

  “There’s no accounting for taste,” Brett added. Brittany cocked her head before she stuck her tongue out at her brother, finally relaxing in the presence of the two playful men.

  “Piece of shit! Piece of shit!” Harry croaked.

  “You are so right! He is a piece of shit. Harry, you and I are going to get along just fine,” Brittany said, handing him another grape. Reed burst into a wide grin as he saw Brett return his sister’s gesture. With his two new friends, it started to feel more like home.

  * * *

  Reed’s gaze rarely left Brittany’s direction through the entire evening. Harry decided that her long, dark hair was a perfect nest and spent hours preening it as he nested contentedly upon her shoulder. The stupid bird had completely won her over, and she conversed with Harry more than she spoke with him. Reed felt a slight surge of jealousy as he wondered if he would have to compete with his pet for Brittany’s attention.

  Despite Harry, Reed grew more comfortable with the quick friendship that had developed between him and Brett. Both were proactive in community law enforcement, recovering alcoholics, and interested in all the same activities. It had been a long time since either had a male friend to hang out with, and they started making plans for things to do together on their days off.

  “While you boys are out playing, what am I supposed to do?” Brittany asked with a sulking pout after putting the turnovers into the oven to reheat them.

  “Feed me! Feed me!” Harry squawked in her ear.

  “Besides feeding Harry,” she sighed, scratching the bird’s wing. He plopped onto his back in her arms and kicked his legs, making her giggle as he meowed.

  “I told you that dumb animal has issues. Normal birds feel threatened on their backs, this one would sleep that way if he could,” Reed snickered, watching them. “Maybe you and I could grab a bite then see a movie.”

  “Maybe,” Brittany said, stroking the silvery-gray feathers as Harry continued to purr. “But do I have to stay home alone while you guys engage in your bromance?”

  “She’s feeling left out,” Brett stated. “She used to throw some major hissy fits if I didn’t take her to scout meetings with me when we were kids.”

  “Did she get her way and go with you?”

  “Of course. My father and older brother hated listening to her scream and carry on, and they both gave in to anything she wanted,” Brett grunted. “That’s one reason she never learned what the word ‘no’ meant.”

  “Poor baby. Didn’t you have any girlfriends?” Reed asked.

  Brittany wrinkled her lightly freckled nose, shuddering as she shook her head. “I never liked hanging out with girls. Most of them were only interested in the fact that I had a twin brother and would use me to get to him. And they were always so competitive… trying to outdo each other in how much they owned, how thin they were, how much better they were than the low-lives in the valley… it was sick.”

  “It sounds like you were lonely and maybe a little uncomfortable with who you were.”

  “A lot uncomfortable and, yeah, pretty lonely, I guess. I mean, Daddy had more money than any of their parents, and we lived in the biggest house in the neighborhood, with the largest full time staff, but those girls still managed to make me feel stupid and insignificant. I never seemed to fit in, especially since I hated how snobby, mean, and uptight they always were with everyone… oh…” she froze midsentence. Her face red with embarrassment, she put Harry down and excused herself, quickly running out the front door.

  “What was that about?” Brett asked, confused.

  Reed stood up, patting the other man’s shoulder. “I think she just had an epiphany. I’ll be right back. Don’t worry, I’ll take care of this.”

  Reed ventured outside, scanning the yard for the distraught woman. She was sitting in Brett’s car, crying. “Hey, Britt, are you all right?” he asked softly, sitting next to her and taking her hand gently in his.

  “I’m horrid! I turned into everything I hated! I’m so ashamed of myself. How could you even look at me?” she sobbed. “It’s no wonder everyone hates me!”

  Reed sighed, patting her thigh and letting his fingers linger as he rested them on her hand. “Aw, sweet thing, no one hates you. The first ah-hah moment is usually a tough one. Been there, done that. You’ll get through it and come out stronger. I promise,” he reassured her.

  She looked up at him, her eyes red. “Then what? I’m useless, can’t get a job anywhere, don’t know how to do anything worthwhile, and too stupid and mean to…” His lips interrupted her self-deprecation. She gasped, unprepared for his boldness as she sunk into his strong, confident grasp. Reed’s tongue probed deeply into her mouth, tasting her soft, sweet lips and drawing her deeper to him. She broke away, breathless, and stared at him with disbelief.

  “I think you are incredible. You have so many redeeming qualities that you have yet to discover. You’re beautiful, talented, funny, and can carry on a decent conversation when you’re not being a little brat. We know how to deal with those moments now, so there is nothing to worry about, right?” Reed asked, running his hand down the length of her hair.

  “You wouldn’t dare!” Brittany sucked in a breath as his mouth reached to consume her once again.

  “I certainly think I would. I’ve been in a relationship with a cross, bitter woman. Never again. It’s not good for either party.”

  “We are not in a relationship. We’re barely just friends, and I just met you. Don't you think you might be coming on a bit strong?” Brittany argued, pulling away.

  “I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable. One thing that we addicts learn very quickly during our recovery is how to recognize our needs and feelings for what they really are and try not to substitute those needs or numb the feelings with our drug of choice. I sensed that you are as attracted to me as I am to you, and that your need for human companionship is as strong as mine. Britt, if you can stop denying your real needs, you might be able to allow yourself to experience genuine happiness. We will work on your recovery at the best pace for you, and I promise to help get you on the right track and work towards helping you find some peace. We can get to know each other better, too. Personally, I would like that as much as seeing you obtain your sobriety. What do you think?”

  “You seem to be very sure of yourself. Do you always make the assumption that people will go along with your plans?”

  “Yep. That’s how I get what I want. And what I want is to have you actively in my life, maybe as more than a friend. I don’t easily take ‘no’ for an answer when I decide to go after something of value. Life is too short to play games with time, and we are no longer teenagers to play the dating game.” He leaned gently against her, noticing her nipples hardening under her thin shirt.

  “Value? You are kidding me. I have no value, not even to my own father. He made sure I knew that when he threw me out.”

  “Listen to me, darling. One day you will find out that he did the best thing he could to show his love for you. You might not see it right now because the hurt is too fresh, but you will see it in time.”

  “You are making me feel stupid.”

  “How? By reassuring you that your perception will change as time goes on? Just remember that no one has the power to make you feel anything that is not true. You give them that power when you accept their opinion of you. My opinion is th
at you are worth waiting for.”

  “Don’t push me. You aren’t my type,” Brittany said stiffly, turning her head from him.

  “What is your type, Britt? A wealthy man who doesn’t care about your heart, happiness, or sense of wholeness? You do not have to settle for that ever again. Give yourself a chance to grow.”

  “I need to think about it. I’m not quite as convinced as you seem to be,” Brittany responded coldly in an attempt to hide the true extent of her vulnerability.

  “You are one stubborn woman, know that? Okay, putting the chance of a personal relationship aside, the bottom line is that you have to go to meetings, or you’ll be in serious trouble. You don’t have a choice there. You might as well accept it and make it pleasant for all three of us,” he said firmly.

  “But—”

  “No excuses. Brett and I will sponsor you, and we’ll get through this together. We won’t give up on you, no matter how long it takes.”

  “I’m telling you that this whole thing is being exaggerated. I’m fine and don’t need help.”

  “You don’t want help. Big difference. I told you, I will not take ‘no’ for an answer. Not with you or anyone else. My ego demands it, so get used to it,” he announced with a partial smile.

  “Damn it, Reed. You sound like my father. And your charm is not going to convince me of anything, so don't try using it on me.”

  “Honey doll, if I were your daddy, you wouldn’t be in this situation to begin with. Not only would I have refused to indulge your every demand, but I would have put you over my knee for the worst spanking of your life the very first time you picked up a joint or threw a temper tantrum. And my charm will work wonders on you. Just watch me.”

  “You are impossible. And you are not touching me like that, ever! I will never allow another man to spank me like I was a bratty child,” she warned. “I forbid it!”

  “Forbid it? I must admit I would love to see exactly how you would be able to stop me. I’m a little bigger and probably a tad bit stronger than you are,” he advised. “But the solution is easy. Be a good girl and behave yourself by not acting like a spoiled, bratty little kid. It’s really that simple. By the way,” Reed flashed another charming and very seductive smile that left her quaking with desire. “I might have mentioned that I tend to be very stubborn when I want my way. As much as I want to dive into those wonderful turnovers, I can sit here all night until you finally give in and agree to cooperate. You might as well save us both some time and stop fighting me. I will win. I promise.”

  She pretended not to feel the animal attraction to his appearance, his delicious scent, or his dominance. She kicked the dashboard, “Fine. I’ll give it a go if that will just shut you up.”

  “I have other ways you can use to shut me up. Much more enjoyable ones,” Reed reached to draw her lips against his, once again savoring the sweetness of her mouth. Brittany stopped her struggle and melted into his arms, hungrily returning his kiss. The sound of a clearing throat caused her to open her eyes.

  “If you two want me to leave, I’ll be more than happy to,” Brett commented, leaning into the open window and watching as his sister flushed furiously.

  “Nah, not necessary. We were just finishing up here. I think we have reached an understanding,” Reed grinned sardonically, opening the car door to slide back out.

  “Hey, don’t stop on my account. I’m just glad you found a way to keep her quiet.”

  “Fuck off, Brett,” Brittany snarled. Before Brett could say anything, Reed stepped in,

  “New rules. No swearing at either of us. We don’t cuss at you, do we?” Reed asked firmly. Brittany glared up at him, saying nothing. He nodded, “There’s my answer. Brett? If you don’t mind, I would like your ‘okay’ to take an active part in your sister’s recovery.”

  “Go for it. I could use all the help I can get. Just let me know if she gets out of hand again,” Brett grinned, winking as his sister began to seethe with anger.

  “Likewise. I think with both of us working together, this little lady will be walking the straight and narrow. What do you think, Britt?”

  “I think both of you are total assholes… jerks,” she quickly changed her wording, seeing Reed frown.

  “We might be, but we really do have your best interest in mind.”

  That’s not all he is interested in, Brittany fumed, resisting the urge to touch her still tender bottom. She had a sinking suspicion that things would not be pleasant for her if she fell off the wagon with either drugs or her attitude. She changed her mind. She was certain that things would not be pleasant for either her or her bottom, and she was not happy with her present options.

  Chapter Three

  It did not take long for Brittany to score with a new dealer. The fat bud of Purple OG Kush was sweet, home grown, and just begging to be tasted. She quickly rolled it and fled to the woods behind the cabin to take a couple of hits. Mmmm, she hummed, taking a deep toke and holding it. The drug washed through her instantly, relaxing her mind in a cloud of peace. It had been too long since her last high, and this stuff was quality.

  She had been so stressed these last two months with all those stupid meetings and Brett’s increased demands on her to perform his pathetic chores, as well as the occasional summons to Reed's house to clean for some extra money. There was no end to the list of things given to keep her busy, even having her sew buttons on their shirts. She had managed to avoid a repeat of Brett’s version of ‘intervention’, and had only started to argue one time. Reed’s appearance at their doorway and the warning look in Brett’s eye caused her to think twice and just shut her mouth. She did not want to give him any reason to spank her in front of their friend.

  Reed. His lips were like magic, sending her spiraling down into a feeble puddle of Jell-O. He knew it too, the arrogant buffoon. When he wasn’t making her roar in laughter with stories of Harry’s escapades, his kisses quickly and effectively silenced her complaints. But that was where he stopped, leaving her panting and aching for more than a kiss. They spent nearly every day in each other’s company, and she never grew tired of his presence. The aching sensation in the pit of her stomach told her that she was falling in love with the man. And that was the worst thing she could imagine happening to her. There was nothing she could imagine that would make their relationship work long-term.

  Taking another deep toke, Brittany reached into her shorts to slide her hand under her panties. Her soft mound passed beneath her palm as she dipped her fingers inside to feel her increasing wetness. She closed her eyes, caressing her sensitive clit, and imagined that Reed’s fingers were touching her. It was his tongue that reached deep inside to taste her, and those incredible lips that wrapped around her nub to suckle it with gusto. His hard, rigid cock would glisten as it dove deep, touching every womanly part within of her.

  Sensation and desire were magnified by the marijuana, and colors spun vividly in her mind her as she increased her tempo and pressure upon her wanting pussy. She held back a scream as the orgasm blazed through her entire body, turning her drug-induced world into a fanfare of lights. Minutes stretched like hours as she fought to catch her breath and rejoin the real world. Whew! If fantasizing about Reed’s lovemaking was even half as good as the real thing, Brittany knew she would surely die and go to heaven. But even she knew that it took more than good sex and lustful attraction to make a relationship work. They were from too different worlds, and she did not believe he would ever succumb to being molded to fit into hers.

  The sun was warm on her face and the birds chirped happily in the trees. There was no reason to hurry back to the house. The chores were done, dinner in the crockpot, and plenty of time to relax before her brother was due home. Brittany took another hit and closed her eyes, allowing the stress of the last few months to flow from her body. By the time she awakened, the sun was setting, and the evening dampness was starting to roll in. Cursing, she raced down the path and crashed through the front door.

  Brett
was holding the phone to his ear, still in his dress clothes. “She just came in. Okay, Reed. Yes, I’ll have her call you. Hey, kiddo, where have you been? I was worried that something had happened to you. You didn’t even leave me a note,” her brother demanded lightly, hands on his hips with a look of concern on his face as he studied her eyes.

  “I’m sorry. I finished my chores, then went for a walk. I fell asleep,” Brittany answered carefully, looking away.

  “Are you okay?”

  “I’m fine, still drowsy.”

  Brett frowned, lifting an eyebrow as Brittany yawned.

  “All this housework is wearing me out. There is no way I could keep up with Reed's place on a regular basis right now. I don’t think I’ve ever worked so hard in my entire life.”

  “That I believe is true. What’s for dinner? I’m dying of starvation.”

  “Pot roast. Is your friend coming over again?” Brittany asked innocently. “He seems to spend more time here than at his own home.”

  “It’s your cooking and my company. Smells great, by the way. Hey, I've got some good news for you,” Brett said, helping himself to the meal. “The district is looking for someone to do some data entry, and I suggested you. You will come to work with me once a week and then do the rest at home. Maybe make some decent money for yourself.”

  “Data entry? I can barely look up my email.”

  “I’ll help you. You just need to fill out the paperwork for hiring and pass the drug test. No problem.”

  “Drug test?” Oh shit! Brittany took a calming breath to relieve the pounding of her heart. Great timing! “But I haven’t been clean for the ninety days. I was smoking daily prior to all this and it shows up for that long, doesn’t it?”

  “Nah, just two or three weeks. I don’t think you were that heavy into it. You should be good to go. Dang, girl, this is delicious. Call Reed. You made enough for him, right?”