Cherry On Top (The Hollens Book 4)

Chapter Seven

Emily's POV

"He's getting MARRIED TO SOMEONE ELSE?" Gen asked, her last words ringing out.

We were back at the hotel in my bedroom, and I was sobbing like a child who didn't get their way. 

Gen came over and wrapped her arms around me. "It's going to be okay Em."

"H-How?" I cried.

"Maybe... maybe he won't get married. Maybe he'll put you first and call off the wedding."

"I don't think he'll do that Gen. His responsibility isn't to me anymore. It's to his father and his country. He won't give up the throne for me."

I sat up and stared out the window, facing the now dark ocean. I felt hurt, but I had no reason to be angry at Sebastian for the way I was feeling. We were just rekindling a bond that had been broken almost ten years ago. I had no say in his life and his choices.

My phone rang. I answered without looking at the screen.

"Why did you run off Emily? You didn't even give me a chance to explain things to you."

"I'm sorry Sebastian, but I couldn't stand being there anymore."

"Being here or being here with me? Emily, I don't want us to pull apart from each other again."

"I think it's for the best Sebastian. I don't want to be in your way of happiness and marriage." I wiped a single tear away. This was harder than I anticipated, telling the guy I loved to move on and love someone else.

"Listen to me, I don't you worry about that situation. Can I see you?"

"Like, right now?"

"Yes. I'm already outside your hotel."

"Okay. I'll see you in a bit."

I freshened up and ran outside to Sebastian's vehicle. I got in the passenger seat and pulled him into a hug. He gave a small smile and brushes several hair strands behind my ear. The palm of his hand cupped my cheek— the feeling settled me. He looked me in my eyes and I looked into his. Just at that very moment, I felt at home. He drew me closer to him. Every inch closer my heart pounded heavier. It was a feeling I felt only once in my lifetime, a feeling only Sebastian could make happen.

Our lips met. His minty breath erased the hurt and my eyes closed instantly as I took him in. His sweet manly fragrance circled me like a blanket as the kiss deepened. His fingers went through my hair as did mine to his. I couldn't control my small moans. Everything about this man felt right and his presence was like a medication in the right dosage. I needed him.

When the kiss came to an end I felt cold, and then reality hit me like a bolt of lightning. I needed him, but I wasn't about to have him.

"Seb, I don't know what to call 'this', but what are we to—" 

He cut me off, placing his finger on my lips. "Stop. You're worried about where we're heading, but you don't have to be. I'm right here with you."

He started his Range Rover and drove us to the beachfront. We held hands and walked down to the seashore. 

"Sometimes, when things get too overbearing at the palace, I come down here to think and get some time for myself. I like it here."

"It really is a beautiful view. I'm sorry for overstepping on your land."

"Ha! I actually bought you here for another reason. You can have it."

"WHAT?"

"You can have the land to build your hotel... but on one condition, it must be named after me."

"Yes. Of course, yes. Thank you so much."

"You're welcome." He embraced me.

"I lo—" The words almost escaped my mouth a bit too soon. Way too soon.

"Huh?"

"I love it here, but I think we should head back before your bodyguards show up again."

We drove back to the hotel, and when Sebastian got his goodnight kiss, he didn't let me get out of the van.

"Hey, where are we going again?"I asked when he stepped on the gas.

"To my bedroom."

"Wait, what?! Are you going crazy?" I was terrified. Outsiders weren't welcome into a royal palace and definitely not at night. "Sebastian, please stop the van and take me back to my hotel at once!"

"Relax. We're not going to get caught. I usually take a back passage to my quarters."

And that he did.

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I slowly walked into his bedroom. The golden theme intimidated me. The gold silk sheets were neatly laid on his bed with pillows to match. A huge chandelier with low gold lights hung in the middle of the room, and the fluffy rug underneath my feet was as white as snow.

"Sebastian, I can't be here," I protested.

"Of course you can because I brought you here." 

I watched from the corners of my eyes as he got undressed. I continued looking around the bedroom, admiring everything in sight.

"Come, Emily." He was now in a bath towel that only concealed the lower part of his body. 

My eyes darted to his abs. All six were carved out and bordered by his V line. It was another sight to take in.

"Are we going to the shower?" I asked.

"No. I'm taking you outside to my Jacuzzi. Grab a towel and follow me."

I followed him through several glass doors and up a flight of stairs. Finally, he pushed through another glass door and a bubbling Jacuzzi was waiting for our bodies.

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A/N

So Emily is at the palace in Sebastian's room!!!

Will things get steamy between them or will she spotted and reported on? 🤔

Look Out For Upcoming Chapters and please don't forget to Vote. 😁