The Morning After

The next morning, as sunlight filtered through the curtains, I gradually stirred from my slumber, feeling a dull ache in my muscles. It was the kind of soreness that usually followed a physical altercation, a reminder of the events that had unfolded the previous day. But amidst the familiar discomfort, there was a new sensation that I couldn't ignore—the tender soreness in my lower back.

As I shifted in bed, the memories of the night before flooded back, each moment etched vividly in my mind. It had been my first intimate experience with Jasper, a night filled with passion and I had never felt anything so fucking amazing in my life.

I blushed at the memories that flooded my head. Jasper's huge body above mine, thrusting, gasping, and moaning.

Who would've known sex is so enjoyable.

From the broad expanse of his chest to the powerful sweep of his arms, every aspect of him seemed larger than life. I marveled at the sheer size of him last night, the way his muscles rippled beneath his skin with every movement. It was as if he commanded the space around him, effortlessly consuming me with his commanding presence.

But amidst his physical dominance, there was a gentleness to him, a tenderness that belied his formidable exterior. It was in the way he cradled me in his arms, his touch both reassuring and protective, as if he could shield me from the world with just a simple embrace.

Jasper entered the room, Clad only in his boxers, he carried a tray laden with breakfast delights, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air.

"You awake? Good morning," he greeted with a soft smile, his eyes sparkling with warmth and affection as he approached the bed.

I couldn't help but smile back, the sight of him bringing a sense of ease to my heart. "Good morning," I replied, my voice soft and filled with gratitude.

Setting the tray down on the bedside table, Jasper climbed onto the bed, his movements graceful and effortless. He arranged the breakfast spread with care, presenting an array of delicious treats before me.

"I hope you like breakfast in bed," he said, his tone laced with warmth as he poured a cup of steaming tea and handed it to me.

Taking a sip of the fragrant brew, I couldn't help but sigh with contentment. "This is perfect, thank you," I said.

Jasper's gaze softened as he looked at me, his eyes reflecting a depth of emotion that stirred something within me. "Did I make it go away?" he murmured, his voice tender and sincere.

As I sat up, I felt a pang of self-consciousness wash over me as I realized my torso was still exposed, the intimate bite marks from our night together standing out prominently against my skin. Jasper's gaze lingered on the marks, a blush creeping onto both of our cheeks as he asked if I was feeling alright.

"Yeah, I'm okay," I replied, trying to brush off the embarrassment. "Just a little sore, but nothing I can't handle."

Jasper nodded, his expression softening with concern. "I'm sorry if I was too rough for your first time. I got a bit carried away." he said, his voice tinged with worry.

I shook my head, reaching out to gently touch his hand. "No, you weren't too rough," I reassured him, a smile playing at the corners of my lips. "It's just…I didn't think you would bite me so much."

"Was it good for you?"

"Yes."

His eyes softened. "I'm glad you enjoyed yourself," he said softly, his gaze meeting mine with warmth and affection.

"Why'd you bite me so much?"

"Well… I just thought I should mark you as mine."

"All over?"

"I said I got carried away!"

As we ate, Jasper filled me in on the fate of Mr. Reynolds. Despite overwhelming evidence and video footage of his crimes, Mr. Reynolds stubbornly insisted on taking the case to trial rather than accepting a favorable plea deal. As a result, he found himself facing a laundry list of charges including kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, attempted sexual assault, assault, and holding a hostage.

Due to the severity of the charges and the damning evidence against him, Mr. Reynolds was remanded to prison to await trial. Despite his considerable wealth and resources, it seemed unlikely that he would be able to escape the consequences of his actions.

However, the legal troubles didn't end there. Mr. Chambers, Mr. Thompson, Mr. Wallace, and Mr. Carter had all decided to press additional charges related to corporate fraud, breach of fiduciary duties, and self-dealing. Even if Mr. Reynolds managed to beat some of the charges, he would still be facing a lengthy prison sentence.

I helped Jasper with washing the dishes after breakfast as Travis burst into the apartment with a frantic energy, his eyes scanning the room until they landed on me. "Sweetie, are you okay? I heard what happened last night and I rushed over as soon as I could," he exclaimed, his voice filled with concern.

I assured Travis that I was fine, albeit a bit sore from the ordeal. "I'm okay, Travis. Thanks for checking in," I replied, offering him a reassuring smile.

Travis visibly relaxed at my words, but the worry still lingered in his eyes. "I can't believe someone would do something like that to you. It's insane," he muttered, shaking his head in disbelief.

I nodded in agreement, grateful for Travis's concern. "Yeah, it was a crazy situation, but I'm just glad it's over now," I said, trying to downplay the severity of what had happened.

Jasper chimed in, expressing his gratitude to Travis for coming over to check on me. "Thanks for being here, Travis," he said, his voice sincere.

Travis waved off the thanks, his attention still focused on me. "Of course, anything for you guys. Just let me know if you need anything," he said, his tone earnest.

"I'll be fine."

Travis's expression softened as he listened to my response, but his concern was evident. "I appreciate the sentiment, Alex, but you can't underestimate the impact of an experience like that," he said, his voice tinged with empathy.

I nodded, understanding where he was coming from. "I know, Travis. It was definitely terrifying, but I'm okay. Really," I reassured him, trying to project a sense of calm despite the lingering unease.

Travis studied me for a moment, his gaze searching. "You know, I've been in your shoes more times than I care to admit," he admitted, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "And let me tell you, it doesn't get any easier. It'll probably happen again."

I couldn't help but chuckle at his candidness. "I can imagine," I replied, grateful for Travis's honesty knowing how many times he's been held for ransom.

"But seriously, Alex, you need to take your safety seriously. Hire security, install surveillance, whatever it takes to keep yourself safe," Travis urged, his tone serious.

I nodded, taking his words to heart. "I'll definitely consider it," I promised, silently acknowledging the wisdom in his advice. "I don't need it though."

Travis's expression softened as he listened to my determination, but concern still lingered in his eyes. "Alex, I get where you're coming from, but you need to prioritize your well-being," he said, his tone gentle yet firm.

I shook my head, my resolve unwavering. "I appreciate your concern, Travis, but right now, I can't afford to step back or relax. Too much is at stake," I replied, my voice steady despite the lingering fatigue.

Travis sighed, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "I understand, Alex, I really do. But pushing yourself like this isn't healthy," he argued, his worry evident.

I met his gaze, my own determination mirrored in his eyes. "I know it's not ideal, but this is the reality of the situation. I have to be there, no matter what," I insisted, my conviction unwavering.

Travis studied me for a moment, his expression conflicted. Finally, he nodded, conceding to my stubbornness. "Alright, Alex. Just promise me you'll take care of yourself," he said, his voice tinged with concern.

I offered him a grateful smile, acknowledging his concern. "I will, Travis. I promise," I replied, silently grateful for his understanding.

"What's that on your neck?" Travis's eyes widened in surprise as he lifted my shirt, revealing the love bites scattered across my torso. His teasing smile was impossible to miss as he gasped dramatically.

"Whoa, Alex! Looks like someone had quite the night," he teased, his voice filled with amusement.

Heat rushed to my cheeks as I quickly slapped his hands away, pulling my shirt down to cover the marks. "Shut up, Travis," I muttered, trying to sound annoyed but failing to hide my embarrassment.

Travis chuckled, his teasing grin still in place. "Hey, no need to be shy about it. Jasper seems to have chewed on you like beef jerky though," he teased further, unable to resist making light of the situation.

I rolled my eyes, feeling the blush on my cheeks deepen. "Can we please just drop it?" I pleaded, hoping to steer the conversation away from my personal life.

Travis relented, raising his hands in surrender. "Alright, alright, no need to get defensive. Your secrets are safe with me," he said, his tone laced with amusement. Travis turned to Jasper, his expression serious as he addressed him. "Hey, man, he's not a chew toy," he said, his tone firm but friendly.

Jasper's eyes widened in surprise, and he nearly dropped the cup of coffee he was holding. He shot Travis a slightly irritated look before turning back to me, his lips curling into a playful smile.

"Thanks for the concern, Travis, but I've got this," Jasper replied, his tone light as he reached out to pull me closer. Despite the seriousness of Travis's words, Jasper seemed unfazed as he leaned in to kiss me, his coffee-scented breath mingling with mine.

"Soooooo, how was it? Your first time!" I chuckled nervously as Travis pressed me for details about my night with Jasper. "Come on, spill the beans," he urged, taking a sip of his coffee.

Unable to resist his curiosity, I found myself practically bragging about Jasper's gentle touch and considerate nature in bed. Travis listened intently, his eyebrows raised in amusement as I recounted the intimate moments.