Page 125 of Eleven of a Kind

“Well, if I ever see that, she’s really going to know what being embarrassed is all about,” Gabriel said.

“Then it’s good I’m around to keep you calm.” I leaned down and brushed my lips against his.

“Have I told you today how much I love you?” he asked.

“You told me this morning when you invaded my private area while I was sleeping.”

“You loved it, and you know it.” He grinned. “And so did your body with the three orgasms you had.”

“True.” I grinned. “So, what are you going to do now with your growing problem down there?”

He laughed, got out of my grip, tossed me off him, and picked me up.

“I’m taking you into the ocean and showing you how much I love you for the second time today.”

“What if someone sees?”

He carried me into the water. “No one is out here but us. And if they do, they’ll just think we’re playing around like lovers do.” He smiled.

* * *

Carter

It had been three months since my transplant, and I was starting to feel like my old self again. My Auntie Fran wanted me to move in with her while I recovered, but being the independent man I was, I opted to recover at home with the help of a live-in home care nurse. Dorothy was a sweet older woman who never once complained when I was letting the recovery get the best of me.

The apartment phone rang as I sat on the couch with my laptop, keeping up with my company.

“I’ll answer it,” Dorothy said. “Carter, Shaun Kind is here to see you.”

“Really? Have him come up.”

The elevator dinged, and Shaun stepped into the foyer when the door opened.

“Wow. Look at this place.” He smiled as he walked into the living room.

“It’s good to see you, Shaun.” I grinned and stood up as we hugged.

“How are you feeling?”

“I’m good. Have a seat. Can I get you something to drink?”

“Nah, I’m good. Thanks anyway.”

“To what do I owe this pleasure?” I asked as I sat down.

“I was just in New York on business, and I thought I’d swing by to North Carolina to see how you’re doing.”

“That’s really nice of you. I appreciate it. How’s the family?”

“Everyone is doing well. So, there’s another reason why I’m here.”

“Okay,” I said.

“In the past six years, you’ve built one hell of a profitable business. Since you opened its doors, Carter Management Group has pulled in eighty-six million dollars. That’s impressive to a guy like me.” A smile crossed his lips. “You have a great talent, Carter. But I’m not surprised, considering you’re a Kind, which brings me to my proposal.”

“Okay. What is it?” I asked.

“I want to offer you the opportunity to expand and set up offices within Sterling Capital. Think of it as a partnership.”