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Let Me Help You, Good Doctor

By: Myanlass



"I can't believe he is coming." Dominique smiled, cleaning through her house as Jade watched her sitting on the couch.

"Who is coming again?" she asked watching Dominique almost losing her mind cleaning everything. 

"You know who? Jason is coming to visit."

"Oh yes, your secret love." Jade said rolling her eyes.

"Yes, all my friends have someone; don't you think it's about time that I finally get one too?" Dominique said fluffing her dark green sofa pillow.

"But you have been obsessing over this guy every since you two were little and had plenty of time to tell him how you feel but you haven't said anything. What makes this time any different?"

"Because everyone has got someone but me and I will not spend all of my time babysitting kids while everyone is taking vacations."

"Heifer I am not pregnant, I'm not even married yet." Jade countered as her eyes got big. 

"Well, it shouldn't be long. You and James are already trying to look around for a house and sell yours. So, how is that going?"

"Oh, I found a potential seller but haven't found a house that just captures me. You know how you want to find that perfect house that just fits for the both of you?" Dominique nodded, "I just want to find something that gives me that feeling."

"Yea, that's how it's going to be when me and Jason move into a place together." Dominique smiled in a daze.

"That's creepy. Anyway, James is just as picky as I am and wants a big backyard. You know I need a big kitchen too."

"Well hopefully you will find it soon."

"I hope so too. How are your brothers?" 

"Oh, I talked to Eiji a couple of days ago and they are expecting a baby soon; so that's another baby for me to watch. I talked to Taro yesterday and he said that everything is going good with the business and that mom was over at his house last night to clean up the place." Jade sighed, shaking her head as Dominique sat next to her.

"Dominique, you know that..."

"Don't Jade. I know what you are going to say because you say it all the time. My mother will come around eventually." She smiled with all the hope in her body.

Jade gave her a supportive smile as she picked up a real estate book from the table. Dominique never really had a good relationship with her mother. Her mother was Japanese and married to a great business man, who was very wealthy. One day, she met Dominique's father and fell in love with him. He promised her the world but when he heard that she was pregnant, he bailed on her; after she was ready to leave her husband with her two boys. Luckily her husband took her back even with her being pregnant. 

Luckily, his sister, Crystal wanted to raise Dominique because she wanted her to be a part of the family, even though they hadn't heard from her father. Her mother was more than willing to agree to the arrangement. Dominique grew up around her brothers and stayed at their house after school till her aunt Crystal came home from the hospital. Throughout the years, Dominique tried so hard to get her mother to notice her. Her mother never said anything to her and hardly ever looked her way. Dominique would try to show her every achievement she ever made in school, but she never got a response, even when she followed Eiji's footsteps and became a therapist. When she was younger, it always made her cry at night to think her mother didn't love her. After so many years had passed, it made her more determined to get something out of her. No matter how crazy her friends call her. The only person that somewhat understood was Jason. Just thinking of him made her smile.

"Stop thinking about Jason!" Jade exclaimed and started laughing.

"Well, can't help it." She smiled and then she heard her door.

She got up to go get it and frowned when she saw who was on the other side, "Hey neighbor." Nik said giving her his flawless smile.

"What do you want?" she said trying to show him that she was disgusted even looking at him.

"Not a nice way to act. I'm coming to borrow some things." He smiled.

"Ever since you move next door, you're always borrowing something."

"That's only because you are so nice and giving and you are willing to share with me." He said leaning against the door frame.

"Oh, fine. Just go ahead." Dominique said throwing her hands up and walking back into the house.

"Hey Jade."Nik smiled making his way to the kitchen.

"Hey Nik, what are you doing here?" Jade said and he waved.

"Taking everything from my kitchen." Dominique said standing by the couch.

"She is a good neighbor and she says that I'm taking. You heard her say I can take this stuff right, Jade?" Nik said leaning into the fridge.

Dominique sighed to herself feeling a headache approaching. Nik had moved in next door to her around six months ago because it was closer to the station. He has been giving her hell every since, always coming over and borrowing things and certainly not offering to replace them; although, after he leaves, she does find money on her counter. Guess that's his way of paying back. He always has a woman coming over at night. She could somewhat see why, he was a very attractive guy. The normal tall, GQ handsome type, with hard lean body and beautiful green eyes, but that didn't matter. Her heart was set on one person. Besides, she did not want to get into the Italian Stallion and be one of his many girls who had a notched on his belt, but sometimes she does find her self thinking about that kiss. Even with him leaning over the refrigerator with his muscle flexing in his tank top and his short dark hair was so full and thick. She remembered during that kiss, she ran her fingers through his hair and grabbed on to it. She quickly shook her head and turned back around towards Jade.

"Well, thanks a lot sweetie. I have some things to attend to. Do you think that you can fix me a full breakfast for two and then I can say it's from me, Jade?" 

"Oh, are you really asking me?" Jade said pointing to herself.

"I guess not, you know I'm just kidding." He said laughing, nervously, "Alright, well I will be going Dominique and thanks again." He said heading to the door.

"I swear sometimes I feel like we are roommate and it would be different if I had a crush on him but I don't." Dominique huffed.

"Sure you don't." Jade said rolling her eyes.

"What are you talking about?"

"I saw how you were staring at him while he was here."

"Oh please everything in me belongs to my darling Jason."

"I can't wait to tell Katrina, she knows how long you have been obsessing about him."

"I'm telling you, by this time next year, I will be single no more." She smiled.

"Aren't you the same person that wrote a book about loving yourself before loving you or something about that?" Jade said standing up.

"Yes and I am very proud of my book and remember it hits stands next month, but I got the love me part. I love myself every night and now I'm tired of me. I need someone else to help me." She said and Jade starting laughing. 

"Okay, well when will Mr. Wonderful show up?"

"Tomorrow, so if I am busy tomorrow night you will know why." She smiled.

The next day, Dominique went to Jade and Katrina's restaurant waiting to meet Jason. She sat at the table patiently waiting and going over her schedule for the next couple of weeks. She hoped that Nicole could handle everything while she was out. Since she started college, Dominique gave Nicole a a part time job, until her secretary came back from maternity leave. 

She grudgingly looked through her palm planner and saw tomorrow she had to see Mr. Lawson, which she always dreads. He was this guy that is completely in love with his co-worker; the only problem was she was married and so was he. She sighed closing her eyes tight, she just needs to get past that time quickly and think of other things, like Jason.

Jason was a friend of hers that she grew up with. He lived in the same apartment building her and her aunt stayed in as neighbors. He was such a sweet guy that was there for all till he went away for college, but he came back at least twice every year to spent time with her. Dominique has always had a crush on him every since he helped her off the playground when one of the bullies pushed her down because of how she looked. He was her knight in shining armor at the age of nine. Over the years she had seen him grow into a very handsome man with a nice clean bald head and winning smile. He reminded her of Morris Chestnut and it made her swoon, just thinking about if they would have gotten together, especially with him being a successful corporate lawyer. They would call and email each other to give updates and he would always ask about how things with her mother were going. A couple of nights ago, he called her and he told her that he had to tell her something important and he couldn't wait any longer to hold it in. She knew at that moment, he was going to tell her finally. She was giddy with excitement, ever since that day. She has been dreaming of this moment.

Dominique wore her fitted black suit with her hair in a tight bun. Jason always said he liked her hair like that. Katrina and Jade would check in constantly making sure that she was okay. She wanted to go pick him up from the airport but he refused saying that he needed to take care of some stuff. 

"So, where is Mr. Wonderful?" Katrina said sitting down at the table with Jade following.

"My Mr. Right should be coming soon. He just texted me to say he was on the way."

"Now, what makes you think he is going to admit these repressed feelings he obviously had?"

"Because he said, he couldn't hold it in any longer and that it was important. Doesn't that sound like he wants to admit something?"

"I still like what makes you so sure." Katrina said.

"Now how can you question that, knowing how your relationship started?"

"Now let me explain something my hot mama, Scott and I somewhat stumbled into a relationship. Sure I may have plotted but it took me a long time to know that he was the one. You have known Jason was the one since you were what six?"

"Actually it was nine and yes I am ready for him to claim what's his."

"Ooh, are you now?" Jade teased.

"Yes," Dominique smiled and told them to lean forward which they did, "I went to one of those stores you guys talked about and got some candles, a black negligee, and handcuffs."

"Alright now, Miss kinky. You plan to keep him occupied once he admits how he feels, huh? Maybe that would help loosen you up some." Jade said and Katrina nodded.

"I don't need help loosening up."

"You just said you bought you a pair of handcuffs and your first negligee and you are almost 30. You need help loosening up."

"Well then fine, Jason can help me with that all night if he wants to." She smiled, "He just needs to hurry because I still have to meet with my editor and have a couple more appointments to fill."

"That's my girl; I knew you didn't go completely away." Katrina said and they started laughing. Dominique looked to the side and saw a taxi pull up, "That's him. Go away now please." She smiled and they both scurried away.

Dominique brushed herself off trying to look nonchant, but watching out the corner of her eyes, him as he got out of the taxi. Oh he looked so good in his crisp pants and white polo shirt that seemed to tighten around his biceps. She could imagine him yanking her towards him and pressing his lips to hers roughly. Yes, oh goodness yes that's what she wanted. 

He walked in and instantly all the women's eyes centered on him. Dominique glanced his way and smiled. He returned the smile that lit up his face and it seemed like it only came when he saw her. Back off ladies! He's taken, Dominique thought as he stared straight ahead making his way to the table.

"There's my girl." He said as his long arms opened for a hug.

"Yep, here I am." She smiled standing to full height and hugging him.

"How are you doing girl? I've missed you so much." 

"I've missed you too. I was shocked to get a call from you so soon. I was for sure that it was going to take me a while to get to see you." She said as they both sat down.

"Oh not me. I love coming to see my favorite girl." She gulped as she smiled trying to hide her nervousness, "So, how is everyone? How are your brothers?"

"Oh Eiji, is ready to have his first baby and Taro has his internet business and it's going really well. You know my friends are pretty much all married except for Jade but I'm sure it's coming soon. Myself, I'm just single." She paused, "Yep, flying solo." She hinted to him and he just smiled.

"Well, speaking of that, I do have something to tell you." She licked her lips and smiled. "I'm all ears." 

"You know we are good friends and I want to make sure that you are okay and I know you are dealing with a lot with your book. I wanted to tell you something very important." He said reaching across the table for her hand.

This is it. This is the moment. She took a deep breath and repeated in her head how she would say yes over and over. She didn't want to seem too excited so she grasps his hand tighter and patiently waited for him to finally let her have it.

"Dominique," he said staring deep in her eyes, "I am getting married." He smiled and Dominique just felt shattered around but she kept the smile on her face.

"Huh?" she said trying to stop her voice from quaking.

"I'm getting married." He smiled again.

"To what?" she said before she could stop herself.

"To a woman." He laughed, "I found this great woman that I met in Europe and she is amazing, Dominique. I have never felt this way about a woman before and she is so terrific for me."

"Another woman? Really? Oh wow, um...congratulations. I am so happy for you. Could you excuse me for a moment?" she said getting up and walked over towards the kitchen.

Jade and Katrina waited patiently for the big news, but Dominique just walked right past them into Katrina's office and slammed the door.

"Fucking bastard! I can't believe this shit! You have got to be fucking kidding me!" she shouted into the air and felt like her heart was breaking. 

Jade and Katrina rushed inside and stood by her side, "What happened baby?" Katrina said.

"He is getting married." She sobbed.

"What? Wait, what happened?" Jade asked.

"He met some bitch in Europe and now he is getting married."

"Oh, I'm so sorry baby." Katrina hugged Dominique close.

"How did this happen? He was supposed to fall in love with me and be with me." Dominique whined feeling like she was slowly losing her mind.

"It's okay sweetheart, maybe he met someone that made him happy." Katrina said and Dominique's eyes cut to her.

"Whose side are you on?" Dominique questioned.

"What she meant to say was, he would probably change his mind after being around you more."

"Right. That's all that I need to do is just let him stay around me and he will see that's I'm the one, right?" they both nodded, "Okay, I'm going back out there and thanks guys." 

Dominique walked back out there and saw that he was still there, looking through the menu. She took a deep breath and sat down with him. 

"There you are. Where did you go?" he asked.

"I just went to the bathroom and to tell Katrina and Jade the good news." She plastered on a fake smile.

"So, what did they have to say about it?"

"Oh they were just as excited as I am." 

"I haven't told anyone yet, you were the first person I have told. My mother doesn't even know yet." 

"Oh, so when do you plan on telling her?"

"Today more than likely. I am just waiting for a good time to tell her, you know how my mom gets with news like this, but I know she will be okay. She already likes Candi."

"I'm sorry, what?" Dominique quickly said.

"Candi. That's her name." he smiled.

Oh great, not only is he getting married, but he's getting married to a woman name Candi. What is she a stripper, Dominique thought as she still kept the smile on her face.

"Candi sounds so great." Dominique lied.

"She is. She is getting ready to graduate but already has one degree right now. She traveled around Europe because she wanted to see everything." So she is indecisive, "She knows what she wants to do somewhat, but I told her she doesn't have to work that hard and I will take care of everything. She is so amazing, Dominique." 

So, he wanted to have an indecisive, no job having, possible stripper and gold digger; something about that picture was not working for Dominique. 

"Wow Jason, I must say that she does sound interesting."

"Yea and she is coming into town today. I want you to meet her tonight. I was thinking we could all have dinner together." 

"Oh great, that would be perfect." She cleared her throat and took a large gulp of water. 

"Okay, so how about we meet tonight at our favorite restaurant, besides this one?" he smiled and Dominique just smiled, "Okay, I will see you tonight. I'm so happy you agreed Dominique, you just don't know how much this means to me." He said getting up and she followed.

He gave her a quick hug and he still smelled so good but for some reason her stomach started to turn. He pulled away and headed to the door. Dominique collapsed back in the chair and laid her head on the table. This couldn't be happening. What happened to his proposal to her? What happened to them being happy and together? 

"Hey, are you okay?" she heard someone say and knew it was Jade.

"I don't know yet. I am having dinner with him and his fiancée." 

"Why did you agree to go?"

"I wasn't going to say no, that would be rude. I am just going have to bite my tongue and have dinner with him and Candi."

"Candi? Really?" Jade asked.

"That's his fiancée." 

"Well that's certainly an interesting name." Dominique just nodded not lifting her head, "Dominique, you know what you need to do."

"Yes, but I don't know how to get away with murder."

"No," Jade said trying to lift her head, "You need to go to dinner, wear something sleek and sexy just to get him to look at you. When he sees you, then he will think twice about marrying some chick name Candi. Or another thing that won't hurt is trying to see if you can find a guy and pretend like you two are dating."

"How am I supposed to do that?" Dominique said lifting her head.

"Just wear something sexy, I know you have something like that in your closet."

"Yea I do but I never wore it before, I'm too big."

"Yea, I'm just going to ignore that last statement." Dominique jerked her head back quickly, "Now, all you have to do is wear something like that to dinner and show up with a hot guy on your arm."

"Now what do I about the hot guy part. I'm not seeing anyone." Dominique thought for a moment, "You think Kendra will let me borrow her husband?"

Jade started laughing out loud and stopped suddenly, "No, not really. It doesn't have to be someone you are actually dating, just a friend that can pretend with you."

"But I don't have anyone." 

As if on cue, Nik pushed the door open with James right behind him. Dominique's mouth formed an "O" staring at the way his uniform fit to his body. Every time she saw Nik, he looked as if sex dripped from him. He was a good time guy; in fact she dedicated a whole chapter to men like him. Even though she swore she would not get serious to him, she couldn't help but stare whenever he entered the room. Their eyes briefly connected with each other and she quickly looked back at Katrina. Why did she always have to stare at him? He was not what she wanted, she berated. Nik saw her eyes and how her body tensed every time he entered the room. He shook his head and walked to the table.

"Hey baby, what's going on?" James said.

"Not much, just trying to help Dominique and been missing you. Did you and Nik show up for some lunch?" Jade said.



Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 02



The table burst into raucous laughter, well, everyone but Dominique. She just smiled absentmindedly, scraping her nails down the side of her cup. Every since Nik took his seat at the table, he had been the life of the party- but pure hell for Dominique. He was winning them both over making them laugh at his corny jokes. Dominique smiled and threw in a laugh every once in awhile while Nik kept his fingers laced through hers. She already had a couple of drinks and was feeling a slight buzz, but nothing could mask the fact that her plan was just not working. Jason wasn't jealous; he liked Nik. 

"Nik you're a riot!" Candi said flipping her perfect hair over her shoulder. "So, how did you and Dominique meet?" she asked, and Dominique gulped slightly.

"Well, Scott is one of my best friends, he convinced me to come down here and when I met his wife Katrina, I met Dominique as well."

"Was it love at first sight?" Candi swooned.

"Actually, no." Nik said surprisingly.

"What can I say, he got under my skin." Dominique announced, smiling at Nik. He just cleared his throat in response.

"Exactly, she was a little shy at first and she put up a good front about not wanting to date me. I would come to her office, send her flowers and sometimes I would get them back! But on Valentine's Day, she finally gave in and that's the end of the story." He smiled, caressing the back of her hand and that's when she felt her skin tingling.

She wasn't sure what was going on or why he had such a blatant effect on her. As she stared at him she decided to slow down on drinking. Nik was actually really good at this pretending thing, she hated to admit it, but he was. She almost felt like he was actually with her because he liked her. Quickly she shook that feeling away and turned her attention back to Jason and Candi's smiling faces. 

"Well, we are happy that you two found each other. We were just asking Dominique if she could help in planning the wedding and she agreed."

"Really?" Nik said, gazing at Dominique before looking back at Candi.

"Yes, and Jason said he wanted to get married here so we will be here a little bit longer before going back home."

"Wow, that's so amazing. Imagine getting married in your home town and your best friend is planning it. That must be a really great feeling!" Nik milked and Dominique dug her nails into his meaty thigh under the table.

Nik flinched slightly but still kept the smile on his face. "Well Nik, we know that you are a police officer and that you used to be in the military. What else do you have planned?" Jason asked with demanding look on his face.

"Just to live my life mainly, and now that I have Dominique I hope to take this as far as it can go."

"Really?" Jason said giving Nik another once-over that didn't go unnoticed.

"Really." Nik challenged back, pulling Dominique a little closer. 

"I'm just shocked that she is dating someone; she never told me about you." Jason countered.

"Well, I know how much of an important friend you are to her and maybe she didn't want to tell you unless she knew that this was real between us." Nik quickly responded with that smile. 

"Be nice now, Jason." Candi said as he turned to her and gave her a light smile.

Jason had looked concerned... did that really just happen? Dominique thought to herself. That sounded like jealousy! Dominique planted a small kiss on Nik's cheek for extra emphasis. Once he felt those soft lips on his cheek, Nik wanted to chuckle slightly at the innocent gesture. That was so much like the Dominique he always saw, but he was intent on seeing the real her when he got her home later that night.

They stayed at the restaurant for thirty more minutes and then Nik made some crack about putting Dominique to bed that made her laugh nervously but shoot him an evil glare. Nik rode with Dominique since he intentionally took a cab to the restaurant. She was hoping that he would have forgotten that whole payment thing, but she knew that night was going to be day one of it. 

They drove in silence and she had a million thoughts running through her mind. What was Nik going to make her do and what was going through Jason's head right now? Her insides were jumping as she thought back to the look on his face when Nik showed up. Maybe there was something to this whole making Jason jealous thing. 

"So, I take it that's not your ex-boyfriend?" Nik finally asked as she was pulling into the apartments.

"No, he is a good friend that I grew up with."

"And what is the point of all this?" Dominique sighed to herself, "Like I told you before, I want to make him jealous and not appear alone."

"I thought it was just going to be for one day." He said, turning his head to get a good look at her.

"Me too, but apparently he wants to get married here; go figure." She shrugged.

He nodded, "You do realize that means my stipulation extends."

That made her jerk her head towards him and she pushed her glasses on her face, "So I recall." 

"Now don't look like that cupcake, you may like what I do." Oh how much she hated his cocky attitude and smile. 

She got out of the car and walked off without looking back at him. She wanted to just slap the taste out of his mouth when he said things like that. For some reason, it made her feel like one of the many girls he had lined up waiting for him. She entered her apartment and started to shut the door when he pushed it back open, leaning against the door frame with his hands in his pockets. She saw that he had unbuttoned his jacket on his walk from the car. As she stared at him, she thought that it had to be a crime for a man to look like sex. She swore he was so smug because he knew exactly how sexy he looked. She hated him for that, she thought crossing her arms in front of her chest.

"If I didn't know any better I would say that you were trying to get out of our little agreement. Running in the house like that." He finally said looking her body up and down.

"I was not running. It was cold and I wanted to get to my apartment."

He nodded his head and walked inside the apartment, right past her not even acknowledging her at all. She should have expected this sort of rudeness from him. 

"Look Nik I don't have a lot of time right now, I have a lot to do for tomorrow."

"I understand." He said taking off his jacket and draping it over the back of the couch.

"Yes, I was thinking that maybe we have a little meeting tomorrow and you tell me things about you just in case your boy wants to give me a pop quiz about you."

She smiled. Finally he gets it. "Thank you Nik, I knew you would understand."

"There is just one thing."

"Sure." She said putting her hands on her hips.

"Take down your hair and take off your clothes." He said leaning against the couch and Dominique's jaw instantly dropped.

"Ex- excuse me?" She stammered.

"Take down your hair and take off your clothes." He said again, this time very slowly.

"Have you lost your mind?" her voice strained as she fought for control.

"Have you forgotten about the deal? You do what I want at anytime I want it."

"It's late." She reiterated.

"It's anytime." Nik countered.

"Oh for goodness sake." She said crossing her arms.

"My rules or your little friend learns how his best friend lied about having a boyfriend." She narrowed her eyes but the smirk on his face told her that he would do it. 

She let out a big huff of air and reached for her glasses to set them on the table. She took her hair down, shaking some of the curls loose as he watched the dark raven hair frame her face. She looked good with her hair down; it reminded him of a lion's mane, framing her face making her look very exotic. He cleared his throat as she slipped her jacket off and his eyes narrowed in on the tops of her breasts, which were peeking out the top of her dress. She was getting frustrated and wanted to protest but when she locked eyes with Nik she saw something in them that she had never seen in a man before. His eyes darken slightly and watched her so intently. She didn't know why but the way he looked at her unlocked something inside of her. She felt sexy and wanted under his gaze. 

She reached for the side where her zipper was and slowly eased it down locking her eyes on him. Maybe she was more buzzed from her drink than she thought. Nik spread his legs slightly watching as she turned her back to him. He felt his cock twitch as she slowly slid the dress down her body revealing inch after inch of her smooth caramel skin. Oh this was only the beginning he thought, as he watched her throw of her inhibitions out the window. He could really appreciate the delicious curve of her back leading down to her ample bottom. His hands itched to grab on to it, to fit her body against his. He shook his head quickly; he had to get a hold of himself.

She slowly turned back around to face him and he saw her two globes encased in a strapless black lace bra with matching boy shorts. Now that's a sight that would make a man come home every night, Nik thought to himself. 

"Come here." He instructed and she paused slightly, "Come on." 

She wrapped her arms around her stomach and slowly walked over to him. She was starting to feel a little self-consciousness and cold. Why was he torturing her like this? She stood right in front of him and he pulled her closer until she stood in between his legs. His sudden touch made her body tense and he smiled to himself. "One thing about being my girlfriend, even pretending, you have to get used to my touch." He said and Dominique couldn't help but let out that breath she was holding. 

His fingers slowly grazed her folded arms leaving a burning trail on her skin. He went all the way down to her hands pulling them apart from her body. He pulled her hands to rest on the top of his shoulders and his fingertips caressed her arms. She didn't know why but his touch was driving her mad. It was a light teasing touch then it would get a little more urgent. Even though she was enjoying what he was doing, it still made her shiver and jerk slightly. "See, you need to relax. You are going to make lawyer boy a little bit suspicious." He said as his hands moved down to her waist. 

Dominique still felt like her body was shivering especially the way he was staring into her eyes. She looked into face and she had a sudden urge to kiss him. The taste him again; in truth she had the urge to kiss him ever since Valentine's Day. She wanted to feel the urgency of his lips. She took a deep breath and wrapped her arms around his neck, bringing herself closer to him. She wasn't sure if it was the drink but she was enjoying this more and more. The feel of his hands all over only heightened the soft fire that was building inside of her. It was one of the first times she didn't plan something, or over think it. She just wanted a little taste she thought to herself, as she leaned in and lightly brushed her lips against his. 

He took in a sudden breath as she pulled away taking her swee t lips with her. He grabbed the back of her head and pulled her back down, firmly planting his lips against hers. Dominique finally relaxed against him as she pushed her tongue inside his mouth, taking in as much as possible.

She tastes so good, he thought as he held her head firmly to his and her fingers rubbed the back of his neck. She moaned into his mouth as she nibbled on his bottom lip, driving him absolutely insane. He wasn't sure what was going on with him; he had his share of passionate women in the past but for some reason Dominique took the cake.

He pulled away quickly and looked up at her which was an even more dangerous thing to do. Her eyes were clouded and her lips were puffy, silently begging to be kissed again. Get a hold of yourself Nik, he thought as he stood to his full height putting on his usual nonchalant face. 

"That was good, but I have to go." He said walking past her. 

Dominique quickly blinked away the spell and turned back to him, "Go? Now?" she asked.

"Yes, you have to go to work in the morning and so do I. Don't worry, innamorata, I will be back for you real soon." He smiled and she sighed to herself but quickly shook it off. She was not going to get caught up in his spell. 

"Good night." She said wearing a disgusted look on her face.

"Ciao bella." He said closing her door behind him. 

Dominique leaned her back against the door running her fingers through her messy hair. Okay, that was not supposed to feel that good. Still they got nothing accomplished. He didn't ask her any questions. That meant that she had to put her foot down and make him give her information. That's when she realized she was pretty much naked in her house. Damn him, she thought as she scrambled for her clothes on the floor covering her body before going to her room. This was going to be an interesting couple of days.

"I just don't understand what's going on with me doctor. It's like she likes to toy with me." Mr. Davis whined as Dominique looked as if she was really intrigued. 

She tried to make this session a little more enjoyable and look like she cared but it was hard because he always talked about the same thing. He had a thing for a co-worker of his who was married and he was married as well but he still was doing stuff and buying her things. She had to constantly remind him that she was married and it wasn't going anywhere but he still kept coming back to Dominique. She didn't mind much because that meant more work for her but one thing she hated to do was repeat herself and she definitely felt like a broken record with him.

"Doctor, what should I do?" he asked looking at her with pleading eyes.

"Well, Mr. Davis, have you ever thought about not even paying attention to her and focus on your wife?"

"My wife? I love her dearly, but she doesn't do anything for me." He sighed, "Not like Angel does."

Dominique wanted to meet this Angel just to see how she got this man so twisted around her finger. She was about to say something else when her door opened and saw Nik walking in with Nicole on his trail. 

"Excuse you?" Dominique said standing to her feet.

"Well bella, I thought we could work on some things now that I have the time." He said with that cocky smile.

"I tried to stop him, but he said that you knew he was coming." Nicole tried to explain and Dominique just smiled. 

"It's okay Nicole, you can go back." As Nicole left, Dominique turned her attention to Nik, "This is a bad time because I'm at work. I'm so sorry Mr. Davis."

"No, it's alright." He said.

"What's up man? How are you doing?" Nik said sitting on the couch.

"I'm sorry but you cannot stay here. This is a private session."

"Is this your boyfriend?" Mr. Davis asked looking confused.

"We..." she paused looking over at him and he raised his eyebrows, "it's complicated." 

"There is someone else coming too, someone named Jason?" Nicole said poking her head in and Dominique shut her eyes tight.

"Don't do anything." She warned Nik and he threw up his hands before she walked out into the waiting room.

Jason was standing there looking at some of the pictures on the wall and when he saw her he turned his attention to her, "Hey sweetheart." He said.

"Hey, what's up?" Dominique smiled.

"I just wanted to give you a list of some things that Candi and I wanted you to include." He said handing over the notepad.

"Great, I was just going to call you about that." Dominique said, "Um, you actually caught me at a bad time because I'm with a patient right now." 

"I imagine, but I just wanted to ask a question real quick." He said and she nodded, "That guy Nik. Really?"

"What do you mean?"

"I mean Dominique, he doesn't seem like the type you would go for and this goes beyond the fact of how you feel about interracial dating."

"Well Jason, some things have changed. I mean I have learned to be a little bit more open minded about things." She smiled inside loving where this was going.

"Yea, but you like more of a stable guy. He reminds me of a play boy. I just don't want to see you hurt. You know how much you mean to me." He said reaching to grab her hand.

"Believe me I do," She smiled back, "but I am good where I am at now."

He nodded and looked down at his hand and quickly let go of hers as if it shocked him, "Well, I better get going." He headed towards the door.

"If I need any help, I will call you to let you guys know." She called and he kept going.

It's actually working so far. Jason is actually caring about her dating Nik. She smiled to herself as she turned around and looked at Nicole's smiling face. 

"What's that smile for?" Dominique asked and Nicole just shrugged and looked back down at the computer.

Dominique was almost floating on cloud nine till she remembered that Nik is alone in there with her patient. She rushed back in and saw the two men facing each other talking.

"So, I'm telling you it works. Ignore the woman; in fact try it on your wife first. Make it look like you are uninterested. See how your wife reacts to it." Nik said.

"I never thought of that before." Mr. Lawson nodded. 

"Wait, what did he tell you?" Dominique intervened.

"I told him what to do to get what he wants." Nik smiled.

"Yea and it was great. I think I am going to try it with my wife at first, just to see if she pays attention and if it works then I will try it with on Angel. Thanks a lot man." Mr. Lawson got up nodding his hand vigorously with a new confidence.

"No, that's not the best thing to do. We need to help you get over her." Dominique said.

"No, it's okay doctor. I will call you back to let you know how it went." He said quickly exiting.

Dominique stood at the closed door, her mouth wide open. She can't believe that this playboy gave her client a loaded weapon to use on that woman that she has been trying for months for him to get over. She narrowed her eyes and slowly turned back to Nik who was stretched out on the couch with his hands behind his head.

"You asshole, do you realize what you done?"

"Yea, I think I helped out a client, does that mean I get part of your pay?"

"No, you just pretty much condoned that man to cheat on his wife with another woman."

"No, I didn't. I didn't say anything about cheating on his wife."

"Yes, you did. You just..." that's when it dawned on her everything that Nik actually said, "You told him to try it on his wife."

The cocky smiled appears, "I talked to him a little bit and the man actually is madly in love with his wife but she doesn't pay attention to him. The only reason he is infatuated with this other woman is because she gives him the attention he wants from his wife. I told him to try it on his wife at first, she would wonder what's going on and why is he acting like this and will do anything to get his attention back on her. That includes giving him the attention he wants. You watch when he gets that from her, he is not going to give another thought to that other woman."

Dominique was impressed, she admit she never thought about that, but then again, she will never tell Nik that, "That will never work." She said crossing her arms across her chest.

"You just watch and see what will happen. You can tell that's all the man wants."

"Whatever." She said moving over to the desk.

Nik walked over to her and stood behind her, placing his hands on her hips. She flinched slightly but relaxed into his touch, leaning her head to her shoulder. His hands moved from her hips to her waist, enjoying the moment a little too much.

"I see you are getting better." He whispered and his hot breath tickled her neck, making her shiver.

"I am trying. I wasn't really expecting that." She whispered back trying to fight off the heat spreading through her body. 

"So, I'm going to need some more information about you." He whispered against her neck and her body shivered all over. 




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 02



His hands moved over to her waist up her body slowly. She bit down on her bottom lip aching to feel his hands on her breasts. For some reason, she wanted to feel that same fire she felt last night. She had fallen asleep thinking about his lips against hers. 

"So, let's begin." He said moving away from her and her body missed his touch since he was just inches away from her.

She shook her head, "Yes, let's begin." She said clearing her throat and sat at the edge of her desk. 

"So, just talk to me about you. Give me some information that a boyfriend would have."

"Well first off my full name is Dominique Kaiyo Grant and I am originally from here."

"Kaiyo? That's interesting, isn't that Chinese?"

"It's Japanese actually, in case you haven't noticed I am half Japanese."

"Well I knew it was some sort of half Asian. That explains the guy in the picture on your desk. Is that family?"

"Yea, that's one of my big brothers. I have two: Eiji and Taro."

"Well did your mom remarry or something?" he asked and Dominique bit down on her lower lip and looked down at her hand. 

"I think we would have to date a little bit longer for you to learn a more in depth story about my family."

"Oh really? I don't know..."

"It's complicated. Can we just leave it at that?" she said staring back at him.

He could see her masking the hurt in her eyes and decided to drop it for now. A part of him still wanted to know what was going on inside her head. Why did he care so much? He shook his head regaining back focus.

"Ok, fair enough. So, what else? What are some of your favorite things?"

"Well, my favorite kind of food is French and my favorite color is green." She smiled.

"I can tell." 

"How?" she said looking at him skeptically.

"Well, your apartment is done in greens and browns and every since I met you, you always wear those emerald earrings." He said and she gently tugged on her earrings.

"You noticed that?"

"I was a special operating solider and now a police officer, I have to be observant." He shrugged.

"So, I'm guessing you are full blooded Italian?"

"Yep, follow the normal family stereotype but not the mafia thing. I only have one brother involved in that type of stuff."

"So, you actually have a family member in the mafia?" 

"I didn't say that, I just said that he dabbles in the work from time to time." He corrected which made Dominique cross her arms, "Tell you what, how about we got out for lunch and we can have the Q&A session there."

"I have clients to attend to."

"No, you don't have another client until three and he's a phone client." He smiled, "I saw your planner on your desk."

"So is that your way of saying that I can't get out of this?" she asked.

"Basically, yes." He nodded and she couldn't resist grunting, "Just to make it easier on you we will go to JK." He said.

She was getting a little hungry and the little chicken salad that she brought didn't look like it would satisfy her much, but she just didn't have time to go to the grocery store. Also, it would be kind of fun to spend his money on lunch and he wouldn't try anything around Jade or Katrina.

He took her to the restaurant and the waitress had just finished taking their orders leaving them alone. She saw a couple of girls shooting glances toward Nik, watching him lustfully. Most of them were probably wondering what a guy that looks like him doing with her. She sighed to herself as she looked down at her palm planner and suddenly it was taken from her hand

"We are trying to eat lunch, no work."

"I'm not working I am just checking my schedule, there's a difference."

"Either way, we have stuff we need to accomplish. I have to get to really know you to fool this guy. Which is something I want to ask about since he seems so important; I know you said he is a friend but who is he really?"

"I told you; Jason is a friend of mine that I grew up with. He's been there for me for awhile and pretty much the only person that I have been able to talk to."

"So, why haven't ya'll dated before?"

"I always liked Jason, but I never thought he saw me that same way. I was always the one that he would come to tell me about a bad breakup or the one where he would tease and poke most of the time."

"Why haven't you ever told him how you feel before?"

"Because I didn't want to ruin the friendship we had. I mean with friends, once relationships get involved everything become different and then there's the uncomfortable moments if you two happen to break up."

"So, what makes now different?"

"I don't know, it just feels right. Besides I have pinpointed everything to where I want to get married and have a baby. I'm ready to settle down with my house and my husband. I use to have this little box where I kept my wishes in."

"Really?" he said leaning forward.

"Yea, I use to have a picture of him with the cute two-story house with the white picket fence, my cute little Sheppard dog, and my perfect wedding dress."

"Wow, you have everything planned, don't you?"

"Of course. I always have to plan for the future in everything I do. I know me being married is the one thing that would make my mom happy and who is more perfect than Jason."

"So, is that the only reason you want to get married is because it would make your mom happy?"

"No, I mean I want to get married."

"Do you love the guy?" 

"I mean I have love for him, we will be perfect for each other. He wants the same things I want and I think we would look cute together."

"Be that as it may, do you love the guy?" Nik asked again which made Dominique narrowed her eyes.

"Yes, I do."

"I don't believe you." He said quickly.

"Well, it doesn't really matter what you believe, does it? You hop into women's beds all the time, so you can't really tell me about love." She said with venom.

Nik sat back in his chair and shook his head, "You think just because I may indulge in women every now and again that I don't believe in love. I do, I have two great parents that show me that love can survive through bad times and be strong. I have a sister who is married and proved to me that there is someone with the balls to put up with her." Dominique started snickering a little. "I believe that there is the right girl for me. She will have to cook, learn to take me as I am and learn to make time for me." 

"Oh don't tell me you are one of those clingy men. I wouldn't picture that for you."

"I'm not clingy at all. It's just the woman that I love I want her to know it and never have to question it. I have always been told that there is nothing greater than a love of a good woman and I intend of getting that." Dominique was a little thrown back by his statement.

"Wow, sounds like you want the perfect woman."

"There is no such thing as the perfect woman. I want someone that when I think about her, I get that goofy smile on my face and just can't keep my hands of her. Just be proud that, that's my girl." 

"For someone who wants a lot, you sure been avoiding the fall in love part."

"I mean, I really have never fallen in love. I just haven't met someone that I can see myself falling into full commitment with. My dad always told me to not give up, because she is out there."

"Just while you are waiting, you choose to sample a little bit of everything before you meet her."

"You don't have to say it so harshly sweetheart." He said feigning hurt.

"Hey, I call it like I see it. So, when was your last relationship?"

"Like actual one. I had dated this girl Monique for like two months, but we broke up shortly after that. She was just too much."

"Too what?"

"She just wanted too much for us to be together for two months. I was pressured into the relationship, so that's my excuse for it."

"How exactly can you be pressured into a relationship?" she asked.

"It was just everything was great in the beginning and she was so caring and loving, then all of a sudden she wanted a serious commitment and I was thinking how could you really want something serious with me when the whole relationship started with you sucking me off in the bathroom." Dominique snickered lightly and Nik just shook his head.

"So, what kind of girl would you go for?"

"I know her when I see her. I know one thing I do want is I never want a relationship where the spark goes away. I want to be with someone that even when I'm in my 70s, I'm chasing her around on my walker, telling her to give it to me baby." Dominique's sudden laughter rang in Nik's ears and hearing it made him smile. She had a pretty smile.

"Well, sometimes the spark does die out, sorry to say."

"It doesn't have to."

"But it does, take it from someone who deals in therapy work; a lot of my clients are people who have been married for years and don't see each other the same way."

"I know that's a possibility but there are ways to redefine it. I mean so many people try to do quick fixes and get upset because it's not fast enough so they end up getting divorce. Not only that, but a lot people get married to people they don't have a real connection with or love."

Dominique nodded, "Wow, I'm impressed. You seem to know a lot about falling in love to never have."

"A lot of it goes into looking at what my mom and dad have. They adore each other and have been married for 35 years. They have had their rough spots, especially with my dad being on the squad but they are still going strong."

"What does your mom do?"

"She was a school teacher, but now she is a principal. She's a spry little thing."

"Wow, you must be really family oriented."

"I believe I am most of the time. So, what about you? I know you are from around here."

"Yea, my aunt and I lived in some apartments not too far from here and she worked her butt off at the hospital to make sure I go to school and all that good stuff."

"Your aunt? That was a nice aunt; was something wrong with your mom and dad?"

Dominique bit the inside of her mouth and looked away. "That's the complicated part. Let's see what other information you may need." 

After her informative lunch, she decided to go visit her mom. It's been awhile since she had seen her and had high hopes after hearing about Nik's family. She had to admit to herself that she did have him pegged as a playboy, but he was a little different. Oh well, doesn't matter much; she had other things to deal with and that was Jason. She texted him to let him know that she was visiting her mom and he said good luck back. Yea, she was going to need it today.

Dominique pulled into the huge house grabbing her purse out of the car. Her mom's husband is a very successful businessman and anything that she needed help with business wise, he was there to give advice. Dominique thought for a moment that it was him that made his mom act the way she did, but he would appear at certain school programs when her mom didn't. He left shortly after the programs, but he was still there.

She sighed to herself as she made her way to the front door, feeling extremely nervous with every step she took that lead her closer. She always got this nervous when she came over to the house. She couldn't explain why but she had the little bit of hope that things would be different with her mom. Then again, she always had that hope when she came to visit. 

The maid led her in and told Dominique that her mom was in the greenhouse. That was always her favorite place to be during the day. She grew the most beautiful orchids and Dominique use to sneak in there when she was younger to take a look at them. For some reason, it made her feel closer to her mother. 

She opened the door to the greenhouse and saw her pruning over her flowers. She had her long hair pulled back into a bun with a couple of strands escaping away. Her mom has always been so gorgeous too and looked as if she never aged. Dominique always wished she looked more like her mom, then maybe they would have had a better relationship. Dominique quickly shook her head clear of those thoughts and walked over closer to her.

Her mother knew that she was there, she always knew, but she didn't look up at Dominique. She just continued primping her garden as if Dominique wasn't there.

"Hi Mom, how are you doing?" She didn't reply, "I just wanted to come and visit you. I don't know if you talked to Eiji, but he said that the baby is coming soon. I know I'm so excited to see him or her." Dominique smiled but her mother's face remained as emotionless as ever.

Dominique closed her eyes tight, wishing she could hear something beside her own voice and the birds. She took a deep breath; she had to be strong. 

"Remember my friend Jason that I told you about Mom? He came back into town to see me and wants me to plan his wedding. He is getting married to this woman that I suppose is okay and he did ask about you." Nothing, not even a flinch. "Your flowers look really good today. I can't wait to see them when they bloom. It should be really pretty." Her mother grabbed her sheers and gloves. "I can tell I'm making you a little uncomfortable. I'll just go ahead and leave now. I just thought I would give you an update." Dominique headed to the door, scared to push her any further. 

She didn't understand where this fear came from but she felt it every time she talked to her mom. She didn't understand if it was a fear that her mother was going to do something to her. It always made Dominique so emotional to be around her and she felt like she was on the edge herself. She just needed to get out of here. 

"I'll come by again Mom." Dominique said as they both left the green house. Her mother headed to the house, not looking back at her, "I love you." Dominique called and her mother stopped.

Dominique's body grew still. Was this going the silent streak finally going to end today? This was the first time she actually somewhat acknowledged something Dominique said. Her heart started beating so hard and fast that it pulsated in her ears. Her mother shook her head and resumed walking back to the house. Dominique felt like she was falling off a cliff when she saw her go back to the house. Dominique took a deep breath trying to quiet her mind and coach herself to be strong. 

"Go home Dominique." She told herself and headed back to the car.

As soon as she got in her car, she sat there for a minute taking deep breaths. She was a therapist, so why couldn't she find the strength to handle this? She berated herself for wanting to cry like she did thousands of times before. The best thing to do was to get away from the house and that's exactly what she did. She had other things she needed to focus on right now, like this wedding she had to plan and this arrangement with Nik. Well, she was hoping that if everything went her way, there wouldn't be any wedding. She just had to deal with Nik and his ways. 

He was an attractive man, smart and charming. He was also arrogant, a little manipulative and pushy: all the things that she hated in a guy. No matter what he told her at lunch, she still believed he had a problem with commitment and she wanted to expand on that to help him deal with it.

*

Thanks for everyone to be patient with me and special thanks to LoveMyPitbulls.



Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 03



Dominique woke up the next day, bright and early at seven in the morning as usual. She went through her routine of a healthy hearty breakfast, an hour on her treadmill and then coffee while she went through her schedule. She did not have any appointments so that she could deal with Jason's new girlfriend Candy. Dominique originally planned to deal with her publisher and see if she could spend some quality time with Jason. Well, that was the plan until Candy called to ask if they could talk about the wedding. Dominique had to keep reminding herself that she was the planner and from time to time would have to be around the bride. She told Candy they could meet at her apartment. 

As soon as she hung up the phone with Candy she heard a knock on the door. Who could that be, she thought, pulling her robe tightly about her as she walked to the door. To her surprise, Nik was standing there leaning against the door frame with his crystal eyes looking up at her. Her initial reaction left her weak in the knees. Yes, she had to remember he was very attractive. She cleared her throat clutching the robe tighter as if he could see right through it.

"Good morning." He said with a smile.

"Don't you have a job?" she said shaking her head at him. 

"I do actually, but I don't have to go in until tonight. I'm taking the late shift." He said making his way in without any invite. 

She should be used to it by now, but he always seemed to surprise her, "Well aren't I lucky!" She said sarcastically.

"Don't act like you aren't happy to see me." He smiled, "I know I just brighten up your day."

"Yes, my day would be ruined if I didn't see your cocky face." She said crossing her arms in front of her chest.

"I knew you felt that way. What are you doing up so early?" He said, plopping down on her couch.

"I'm always up this early."

"Always? What do you do?"

"I eat breakfast, run on the treadmill and look through my planner." She listed and he gave her a strange look.

"You actually have a schedule time where you look at your schedule?" he asked.

"Yes, that way I know what my day looks like. I have to be prepared for it."

"But you realize you said that you have a schedule time where you look at your schedule?"

"Look, in this day and age everyone has either little Palm Pilots or something that they have to keep a hold of everyday to plan their day."

"I don't." he shrugged.

"Well everyone is not a free spirit like you." She scoffed heading into the kitchen.

"It's not about being a free spirit. I just don't want to let a schedule rule over me. I had that in the Marines."

"So you are saying you don't go by any schedule at all?" 

"I go by one, but I don't let it rule me." He said pushing himself up from the couch.

"I don't let mine rule me, I make adjustments all the time." She stated proudly.

"I'm sure you do." He said sarcastically, "So what would you do if you didn't have it for one day?" he said walking closer to her.

She turned towards him eyeing him up and down suspiciously before grasping her Palm in her hands, "Do you have a reason to be here?"

"Do you know how sexy you are in the morning?"

"Nik?" she whined walking away from him.

"What?" he smiled innocently.

"If this is about our little agreement, can you make this quick so I can take a shower? I have company coming in a little bit."

"Oh right, your little boy toy, Jason?" 

The way he said that struck something, she couldn't tell exactly what he meant by that, "No, his fiancée." 

"Oh well, even better." He smiled moving closer to her.

She started backing away from him not comfortable with what he was doing. She could tell by the look in his eyes he was going to take this to a place where she did not want to go. Truth of the matter, she had been thinking about the kiss from the other night. It was constantly on her mind, while her body burned in the places his hands had roamed. She wasn't ready for the intensity he brought out of her. She took a deep breath as her back hit the wall and she realized there was nowhere else she could go. He placed his hands on either side of her face, staring down at her with such passion that it made her cringe. It was a feeling that she never knew before. She wanted to kiss him, but she didn't want to let him know that she wanted to do it. 

She watched his tongue glide across his lips and her body shuttered as a warm sensation traveled through her body. He leaned down and she could feel his mouth hover over hers and she lifted her chin, wanting to feel his lips. She felt his warm breath and in a heartbeat she felt his body heat yank away from hers along with her Palm. She opened her eyes and saw him in front of her holding her Palm in his hands.

"What are you going to do now?" he smirked.

She huffed, "Damn it Nik, give me my stuff." She said reaching for it as he moved just past her grasp.

"No, sweetheart you said that you are not ruled by it, so I want you to prove it." 

"I don't have to prove anything to you, just give me my stuff." She jumped for it as he lifted it up above his head.

This is so childish, she thought to herself. Why does he have to take things that don't belong to him? She jumped up hoping that by some mistake she would be able to grab his hand and pull it down. She kept jumping not really registering how much taller than her he was.

"I think I see something I like." He said, leering at her.

She looked in his direction and noticed her robe was partially open revealing most of her breasts. She quickly closed her robe, tying it tight, listening to him laughing.

"That is so not funny." She said crossing her arms across her chest, turning her back to him.

She quickly whipped around and jumped on him, knocking them both to the ground. He had to admit; she caught him off guard but he didn't release her palm pilot.

"So, that's how I get you to jump me." He smiled and she groaned.

He hid it behind her back as he started tickling her with his free hand. She screamed in shock and started laughing.

"Nik, please stop!" She panted in between her laughter, trying to move out of his grasp.

"So you are very ticklish?"

"Nik! Please!" 

"Now do you give?" he said, noticing the hidden light her face held when she smiled.

"Okay, okay please." She said and he stopped, still keeping his hand behind her.

She collapsed against him and he noticed she still had the smile on her face. Wow, she is beautiful, he thought, glancing between her bright eyes and full smiling lips. His body was pressed close to hers and he could still see the tops of breasts when he glanced down. She could see his eyes darkening slightly and bit down on her bottom lip, trying to still hide her smile. 

"You are horrible." She whispered.

"And you are beautiful." He said lifting his head and pressing his lips firmly against hers, swallowing her groan.

Dominique wasn't quite sure why, but she found some sort of solace in his kiss. She wanted to hate it when he did it but she couldn't. When his lips touched hers, all thoughts and reason escaped her. She just wanted to feel more of him. She pressed herself completely on top of him, finding her body craving the heat of his that burned her from the inside out. Nik wrapped his arms around her, grabbing a tight hold of her amble butt that he couldn't keep his hands off of. Normally she would have jumped a little bit, but this time she welcomed his touch. It made her whole body tingle and quiver for more. She ran her fingers through his hair, nibbling on his bottom lip. 

Nik growled deep in his throat as he felt her teeth lightly pull at his bottom lip. He knew it wasn't long until he dragged this out of her. He moved her legs so that they were on either side of his body to feel her center over his growing bulge. She tasted so good and smelled heavenly, like a fresh ripe piece of fruit. He wanted to taste more of her, his body was actually craving more of her; something he never had before. He was discovering new things with Dominique around. He had to get himself under control and fast. 

He pulled his lips away from her tantalizing ones and looked up as her eyes lightly flickered open. "Wow, on the floor? Now that can be kinky." He smiled.

That cocky attitude of his was like a splash of cold water being in Dominique's face. She groaned low and got off of him, shaking her head while he laughed. 

"You are such a pig." She snapped, pulling her robe tightly around her. 

"I didn't do anything that you didn't enjoy." He said putting his hands behind his head. 

Dominique shook her head and walked over to her kitchen. Why did he have to ruin a perfect moment? Why did this have to be a perfect moment? She shook her head clean of any thoughts that came up of Nik's lips, tongues, or whatever that tent was under her. 

"Could you please get off my floor?" she said, "I have company coming over and I need you up and out."

"Oh yes, the happy bride; what does she want?" he said getting up.

"I'm helping her do something; she wasn't clear."

"You really don't want to do this, do you?" he asked, leaning over the counter.

"Don't get me wrong, Jason was right, I love doing stuff like this. It's just planning the perfect wedding for him to another girl is weird. I have been busy planning my wedding for me and him for years and now, now I'm planning his with some perfect curvy, brilliant woman."

"Well, she's not that perfect."

"Oh come on Nik, even I would date her." Dominique said shaking her head grabbing a glass from her cabinet.

"I mean I'm not going to lie, she is a beautiful girl," He said following her inside, "but she has nothing on you." 

Dominique met his eyes and saw something she didn't think she would see, sincerity. She wanted to believe it though, at least the girlie part of her did. 

"Why do you say that?" the question slowly came out of her mouth.

"You have a certain spirit about you, a hidden sexiness that not a lot of women know how to use or they overly use it." She drew her brows together.

"I'm not quite following you." She laughed nervously.

"You don't know the power of your own sexiness. That's one reason why I do love women, there is something so amazing about the power that you have, but with you, it's more amazing because you don't know that you have it." Dominique looked away, feeling her face heat up, "You are gorgeous and sexy, don't be afraid of it."

"I didn't say I was afraid of it."

"You didn't have to. Your body language says that you are or at least not comfortable with it."

"You seem to know a lot about my sexiness."

"Believe me there is nothing wrong with a woman who knows her sexiness. Confidence is sexy."

"I know about the confidence thing." She said rolling her eyes.

"I know that you do in your industry, but it has always been something that I struggled with when I was younger."

"You?" Dominique said in disbelief, snickering.

"I'm serious." He laughed, "I wasn't always the hot, charming man you see before you. I had a little bit of a weight problem when I was a kid and the kids were relentless." He said shaking his head which made Dominique thumb the straps of her robe.

"So, how did you overcome that?"

"I just kept confident about myself and worked out with my older brother. My mother always told me that I was the cutest little fudge ball she ever seen." 

"I know how teasing can be when it comes to kids. I had to deal with that when I was little too, but my aunt always told me that I was just as pretty as any other girl out there."

Nik drew his eyebrows together. Again with the aunt thing. He began to wonder if something happened to her parents and her aunt had to raise her. He was about to ask her about it when they both heard the door. For some reason that was an intense moment, Dominique thought as she headed to the door.

She peeked through the hole and gasped. She has horrible timing, she groaned to herself. "Hey, Aunt Crystal." Dominique smiled when she opened the door.

"I see you are going to make me come to you for a visit, huh? What are you doing still in your robe and..." the statement died once she set her eyes on Nik standing there, "Oh dear. Looks like I interrupted something." She said looking between him and Dominique.

Nik smiled to himself as he looked between the two women. Her aunt was a beautiful older woman with still smooth flawless skin. His mom would kill for her secret, Nik thought shaking his head. She had her hair pulled back in a bun and was dressed in hospital scrubs.

"Buongiorno, I am Nik." He said reaching for her hand and kissing the back of it gently.

"Oh and he is a smooth one, and cultural." She said locking eyes with him.

"Actually he is from New York and Italian." Dominique explained nervously.

"Well, I see that he is here with my niece who is half naked and he is in his sleep clothes and it's almost noon." 

"Don't get excited Aunt Crystal, he is my next door neighbor."

"Yea, we were discussing breakfast in bed, but I was about to leave. Dominique, I will talk to you later about the whole me and you thing." He deliberately said walking to the door leaving Dominique's mouth wide open.

She followed him over to the door and quickly shut it behind him. She swore she was ready to strangle him. That was so out of line in front of her aunt and she was going to make him pay for it later. 

"Oh he is a nice looking one and very sweet. I can tell he is sincere." Her aunt said. 

"Yea, like I said before Aunt Crystal; don't get too excited about him. He is just my neighbor."

"That happens to come visit you in the morning when you are not completely dressed." She said grabbing an apple from the kitchen.

"He is a friend of a friend and he is helping me with some stuff."

"Really? Well, I like him. I hope to see him around more, it's about time you start thinking about your future so far as being with someone."

Dominique just shook her head, "Him and me are not going to happen. You know I had my heart set on Jason." 

"Jason? Is he in town?" 

"Yes, he is. He is getting married though." 

"Oh, that's great. I should call his mother and tell her congratulations."

"Yea, well I'm planning it for him."

Her aunt looked at her as if she was studying her. She hated when she did this sometimes, because whatever was going through her head, was always right.

"Are you okay with that?" she asked.

"What? He asked so I said yes." She shrugged.

"I know you said yes dear, but I also know how much of a big crush you had on him too. That's why I was wondering if you were strong enough to handle this."

"Yea, I am. I mean I am happy for him." Dominique smiled quickly turning away from her.

"You know I know when you are lying to me but I'm not going to push it any further."

"I'll be happy if you don't, please. I am good, Aunt Crystal. Are you on your way to the hospital?" Dominique asked trying to change the subject. 

"I just got back from a late night shift. Have you spoken to your brothers?"

"Yea I have. Eiji's wife is having the baby soon and he said he was coming to visit too. I saw my mom the other day."

Her aunt sighed her disapproval but she returned with a smile, "So, how is she doing?"

"The same as always; she still doesn't really talk to me."

"I swear on God's green earth, I don't know what's wrong with that woman, it's not like you are asking her for a kidney. All you want is a freaking conversation with her."

"It's okay Aunt Crystal. It will come sooner or later."

"I know sweetheart, I just hate to see you hurt in all this." She said walking up to Dominique and tucking a strand of hair behind Dominique's ear.

"I know Aunt Crystal, but I'm ok, really I am. I know you probably had a long night and I do have to take a shower before Jason's fiancée comes by."

"Alright, I know when you are pushing me out. I just worry about you since you don't come and visit me." She sighed. 

"I will come and visit you. I have been really busy with a lot of stuff."

"I know. I know. Well, I will talk to you later." 

Shortly after her shower, Candy came by and they went to a couple of bridal stores to get some ideas. Dominique already got the notion that price was no object for the wedding especially since her family was paying for it. The only problem was that everything that Candy was picking was something Dominique had planned for her own wedding. Dominique just sighed to herself feeling another headache coming. 

They decided to get a quick bite to eat at Katrina and Jade's restaurant. Dominique was looking over all her notes as Candy sat there exhausted.

"I knew this was going to be a lot of work and this is just the planning portion." Candy sighed.

"Yea, I see that now. So, have you thought about a place for it yet? I noticed you picked a lot of light colors so were you thinking of something inside or out?"

"Well, I was actually thinking something more outside like in a garden. I always had this vision of walking down the aisle with the fresh scent of roses."

"That sounds really pretty. Well, I will be on the lookout for a florist and garden spots. I know a couple of places." Dominique said jotting down some more notes.

"I swear I haven't thanked you enough for helping me Dominique. I know you are really busy with work." She said glancing down at the menu.

"It's no big thing. I know you and Jason want everything to look perfect for your big day."

"Jason has always spoken so highly of you. He says that you were so smart and talented; honestly, I was a little jealous of you."

"Of me? Really?"

"Yes, because you know him so well. I mean the history that you have with each other; it made me wonder why he wasn't with you." The exact question Dominique asked herself, "Now that I actually meet you face to face and that I see you with Nik, I see why."

"Oh, I mean I know I have my own opinion but, why do you think so?"

"Well, you and Jason are very much alike and sometimes that can clash with people. You and Nik are adorable together. He is a real catch." 

Dominique cleared her throat, "Thank you. He is...something." 

"He is, but I'm great that you have him and I have Jason. I'll be right back." She said getting up and heading to the bathroom.

Dominique wasn't exactly sure if she should take offense to what she just said or not. Did she mean that she could see her and Jason together and that's why she was jealous or did she mean that she and Nik looked better together than Dominique and Jason? It really didn't matter; Jason was going to be Dominique's anyway. The less she knew about the woman the better. She had to try to put a plan in action to get her to spend more time with Jason. 

A couple of days later and things have been exhausting between wedding planning, the book, work, and pretending to be Nik's girlfriend. She needed a vacation, but didn't have the time to take one. The only thing that puzzled Dominique was that it had been awhile since Nik had been around her. He hasn't tried anything lately. Normally, she would have been happy but for some strange reason, she wasn't. Well, maybe he got one of his one night stand girls to have sex with. Something inside of Dominique cringed when that thought entered her head. No use sweating about it now, she had other things to think about. 

She was about to leave out of the office and swung her door to see Nik standing in front of her with a raised hand, "You were actually going to knock?" Dominique quickly said taking a deep breath.

"Well, I do have manners sometimes." He said with that killer smile that made her melt, "I want you to come over my house tonight."

"And you couldn't call me for that?"

"No because knowing you; you would have come up with some lame excuse as to why you couldn't make it and then hide with either Katrina or Jade." He had been around her for too long; she thought standing, there with her mouth gaping open.




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 03



She opened her mouth to say something but quickly shut it as he leaned against the door, "You don't know. I may have had wedding stuff to do."

"Yes, that's why you are coming over my house so I can save you from all that."

"I still don't see the point of you coming to see me because you live next door, you could have easily kidnapped me like you always do."

"Well maybe I wanted to see your smiling face." He said.

He always did say things to make her blush inside, but she didn't want him to know that, "Well, since you went through all this trouble. I guess I could go and have dinner with you." She said and he took her brief case.

He was such a gentleman sometimes, even though he was an arrogant ass. She just didn't get why he was like that or why he wanted to be so sweet to her.

Once they got to his house, she watched him move around the kitchen setting out some stuff, ready to cook. Now he was cooking for her? This was getting way out of line but she was enjoying it.

"You know what I notice about you?" he said starting to slice some celery.

"What is that?" she sighed wondering how this conversation was going to go.

"Do you always wear dress slacks and skirts? I mean not that I'm complaining about seeing your legs, but you don't really wear jeans. I don't see you really comfortable."

"Well," she sighed, "I tried wearing jeans before and I don't really like the way they look on me. Plus, it's hard for me to find some that fit me right."

"What you mean fit you right?"

"Nik, don't pretend like you haven't noticed my big butt over here. I know all my flaws."

"Well, what you think are flaws, I see as goodies." He smiled.

"Oh before I forget, Jason and Candy have invited us to a picnic this weekend. She invited Scott, Katrina, Jade, and James but she mainly wants to go because she thinks it could be the spot for the wedding and she wanted to check it out. I was wondering if you wanted to go." She said nibbling on her bottom lip.

"Will you be there?" he asked not looking up for his chopping.

"Of course."

"Then I will be there too. We have to keep this up, don't we?" she nodded, "I just have one request; can you please wear something comfortable?"

"I have comfortable clothes. Slacks are very comfortable."

"Not going to the park and having fun. Since my boys are going, we are going to see about playing some football or something."

"You play football?"

"Yea, I use to back in high school and then on the base we used to play all the time."

"Sounds like it's a lot of fun; can't wait to see you guys play." Dominique smiled and looked up at him, "What are you doing, Nik?" she asked.

"I think what some people call this is cooking." He joked putting the vegetables in the pot.

"But why? Are you trying to lure me like you do your other girls?"

"Ok first, I don't have to lure you because under our agreement there are things I can make you do that could satisfy me. Two, I don't cook for just any other girl."

"Then why me?"

"I take your groceries, the least I can do is cook them for you." Dominique couldn't help but to laugh at that. 

She laid her chin on her hand, watching him maneuver in the kitchen, "I guess that makes sense. I'm guessing you are going to tell me since you are Italian, that's how you knew how to cook."

"That and I always had a gift for cooking, which explains my weight problem I had when I was younger. I was really the only one out of all of us that really cooked. There were times where my mom was too tired from work so I had to cook for my younger brother and sister."

"Really?"

"Yea, the first time I tried to cook I had my older brother help me and we were trying to make pizza dough like mom did. We got flour all over the place." He smiled and Dominique started laughing.

"Are you serious?"

"Unfortunately yes, we had to hurry up and clean up before mom came home, in 30 minutes." He said and she was laughing harder, "I realized then just how hard it is to clean up flour." 

"Well, that sounds a whole lot better than your mom finding it all over the floor." He nodded.

"That's very true." He nodded and glanced over at her.

"That reminds me of when my brothers and I were trying to fix popcorn. We were so confident that we were able to fix it because it was easy. Eiji forgot about it because he was talking to some girl on the phone and Taro and I were playing outside. Next thing we know, we hear the fire alarm. The popcorn is burning, Eiji is panicking and Taro and I were both screaming and running around the place talking about how we were going to die." Nik couldn't hold it any longer. He stopped slicing to laugh out loud and Dominique was laughing so hard that tears were in her eyes, "My neighbor came and fixed everything. My aunt still doesn't about that as of this day."

"Wow, so I take it Eiji is your oldest brother?"

"Yep, Taro is only older than me by a couple of years."

"Where are they now?" 

"Eiji lives in New York with his wife and he is a therapist. Taro still lives here and he owns his own business."

"Was Eiji the main reason you wanted to be a therapist?"

"Yea, I always use to look at his books to see what he was learning and it seemed like my mom was so proud of him when he graduated." Now she mentions her mother, he thought, "What about your brothers and sisters?"

"Well, I have four: Gianni is the older, that's the one I said may be doing mob work. Raffaele is the baby of the family. Amadora is the oldest girl and then Fiorenza. That's the one that recently got married."

"Oh wow, was it hard growing up with such a large family?" she asked.

"Nah, I always had someone to blame something on if I did something bad." He smiled and she just shook her head, "Is that what you want? A big family?"

"I would love to have one. I just don't think my schedule would allow me to have one with working non-stop at the office."

"Can I ask you something and I want you to be completely honest with me?" She gulped silently and nodded at his question, "Do you like what you do?" he asked and that caused her to look at him confused.

"Of course I like my job. What is there not to like about it?"

"I don't know, it just doesn't seem like you have an excitement for it."

"Well, I do. I have a good set of clients and I'm very excited about my book that's coming out."

"That's great, but when do you have time for you and what you want to do. I always see you in your planner."

"That's not true. I hang out with my friends sometimes and..." she paused not sure what to say next, "Why does my schedule concern you so?"

"I'm just noticing the little things sweetheart. I don't mean any harm by it." He said putting together some little pasta dish.

Dominique swallowed hard, staring up and Nik. She never would have pictured him as the cooking type, but here he was fixing something incredible as if it was something that he did every day. He poured two glasses of wine and handed her one. She willingly took the glass as he stared at her. 

"So, what made you want to go into therapy work?" he asked.

"I just like exploring people and seeing what makes them tick. Eiji always made it sound so cool and interesting. I admit there are sometimes where I get a little tired of it because it turned from helping people to just hearing people whine over ridiculous things." Nik chuckled.

"It's funny, my mom never really believed in therapy work. She was just like, go to church and everything will be alright. It wasn't till I was in the service that I saw that sometimes it can be very valuable."

"Yea, I have counseled some soldiers after they came back from Iraq. Some of the stories are chilling. Why did you do it Nik? I mean just from what I know about you, you seem like that would be the last thing you would go into."

"Why do you say that?" he said standing at full height, intimidating her slightly with his intense stare.

She took another gulp of wine before continuing, "I mean Nik, you don't seem like the type that really likes to take orders or have a care in the world." 

He chuckled to himself, "Remember I told you about my brother, the one that is mixed up in the mob, Gianni. At one point, we were like best friends and I wanted to do everything that he did. I saw a little glimpse of what he does and I just couldn't stomach it, especially when it came to terrorizing some people. I went into the service because I knew how much he hated that. After being there for awhile, I discovered I have a talent for it and it opened up a lot of opportunities that I probably wouldn't get being the middle child of five kids. The first time I got back, Gianni was kind of cold towards me and didn't really want to hang out like we use to. It doesn't bother me now; I just wait for that day where he will tell me that he wants out."

"Do you think he will?"

"I do; it's just one of those things where he will have to find the right reason to settle down."

"How does your brother do this work and your dad is a police officer?"

"Simple, they don't know." He chuckled at the shock expression on her face, "I am really the only person that knows what he does; everyone else thinks that he works security for a club." 

He slowly brought the wine glass to his lips, "Now what's this lawyer boy said about you loving wedding planning and everything? I know you said you wanted a for sure thing with work, but why really didn't you go into it?"

"It's just everyone in my family said it wasn't one of those for sure things; everyone except my brother Taro and my aunt Crystal. They wanted me to do it, but my mom's husband said it wasn't stable and that I would have to work really hard to build clients."

"No harder than a therapist. You have to build clients too."

"I know; it's just that everyone else was pulling for me to do therapy and said I had a natural talent for it."

"I don't know; it seems like you have a talent for this party planning thing and you seem happy doing it."

"I do love doing it, but it's just a hobby. I can't really make any money on a hobby."

"You be surprised how many people can. Look at your friends, they opened a restaurant because they loved cooking and boy can they cook." Dominique started laughing.

"I don't know. I'm just a little bit scared on how to start or what I would have to do to get there."

"Well, you can do your research and make time, if it really means a lot to you. I do think you can, you certainly have the talent for it." 

Dominique smiled to herself, "You know we haven't talked like this since Valentine's Day last year. I still can't believe my date stood me up."

Nik cleared his throat, "Me neither, must have 

been someone not worth your time anyway." 

"Nik, why do you do that?"

"Do what?" he shrugged placing the dish in the oven.

"Say those things. You tell me all the time how hot and sexy you think I am and then you make me feel like I'm the most intriguing thing in the world."

"I'm sorry I'm nice to you?" he said confused.

"That's not what I meant." She said getting up and standing in front of him, "I mean why you say those things? I never really had anyone do that and I haven't said anything about you."

"Well then, I curse the men that you have been around that haven't told you what you are."

"Well, it's not really fair because I haven't told you anything good about yourself."

"Oh I know all the good things about myself," He said smiling, "but it would be interesting to know your opinion besides the fact that I'm cocky and arrogant."

"Well you are very much all those things, but you are also handsome and sweet. Those things I'm pretty sure you already know." He nodded, "Some things I have seen is that you are very much a gentleman and determined. You love your family and you know who you are and what you want."

"That's a good quality?"

"It is since a lot of people never find that out." Dominique was starting to feel bolder staring into his eyes, "You are very sensual." 

She said stroking her finger down his arm. He hoped she didn't notice the slight tremor he felt when her finger slowly slid down his arm.

"Really?" She nodded batting her eyes innocently, "I'm thinking you are going to get me into trouble."

"How am I going to do that?" he reached for the glasses on her face, took them off, and sat them down on the counter.

She cleared her throat staring back at him and she felt butterflies in her stomach every time he looked at her so intensely. His dark gaze traveling up her body made her tingle all over and she couldn't help stepping closer to him, as his eyes settled on her lips. Nik wanted to kiss those lips; he was aching to so bad, but it was that ache that confused him. What was going on with this relationship? He was getting more confused by the minute about their relationship and where it was escalating to. When she had mentioned Valentine's Day he cringed inside thinking back on that. He needed to tell her.

"Dominique..." his phone suddenly rang, "Um, give me a minute." He said stepping away from the warm thickening air that surrounded them. 

Dominique sighed with disappointment as she settled for checking on the pasta dish. She wanted to kiss Nik; she was sure that he was going to kiss her. Even though she knew Nik wasn't her type; that didn't stop the growing attraction she had for him. She turned back around to look at him while he was on the phone. He looked as if he was carved in perfection from his sharp nose to his full lips. His body, she didn't really want to get into that as much as she thought about how his arms held her every time he kissed her. Dominique quickly shook her head as a realization came over her. What was she doing? She needs to stop drinking wine, she thought to herself as she treaded into the bathroom. 

"Okay Ama, what did you really call for?" Nik said watching Dominique shut the door to the bathroom.

"What? I can't call my baby brother and see how he is doing?"

"Not without wanting something or reminding me of something."

"Oh you sound like you are rushing me. What little skank you have over there?"

"No skank. It's my neighbor, we are having dinner."

"Dinner with your neighbor? I thought you were at home right now."

"I am, I'm cooking." As soon as the words left his mouth, he immediately regretted them, especially when he heard her pause.

"You are cooking? For another woman? You have never cooked for another woman." She reminded.

"I know but this is..."

"No, no. No need to explain. Maybe you can bring this neighbor with you to dad's party."

"Ama, I swear do not babble to mom and dad about tonight."

"Oh I won't little brother. You know I can keep a secret from them."

"Oh shit." He whispered knowing what little story her little head was already concocting, "Look, if you do, at least tell them that she is a friend."

"I will; a lady friend that you are cooking for. See you when you get here." With that she hung up the phone. 

Nik wanted to scream out but he knew that would just alert Dominique. His sister was going to blab and loudly. Well, he would have to cross that bridge when he got to it. 

During dinner, they made small talk and for some reason there was an air of tension in the room. Nik couldn't understand where this was coming from, especially since everything went so nice just a minute ago in the kitchen. Dominique was trying her best not to go back to that moment in the kitchen. She was ready to go all the way with him. What was going on with her? She was supposed to be going after Jason; not kissing Nik and enjoying it. 

Nik finally decide to go ahead and pry, "Okay, what's going on?" 

She almost dropped her spoon when he asked her that question, "What do you mean?" 

"I mean, we were having a pretty good time just a little while ago and now you are being shy and timid like you don't want to be bothered, what's going on?" 

She sighed, sitting back in her chair, "Nothing is going on Nik, I just wanted to have a good dinner without any distractions." 

"Really?" he said staring a hole into her as if searching for her to break. She wasn't breaking. 

"Really." She said taking a sip of her drink. 

"So it doesn't bother you that I was two seconds from sitting you on the counter and having my way with you?" Dominique nearly choked on her drink as she sat it down quickly as that know-it-all smirk appeared on his face. 

"Um, I don't think I get what you are trying to say." She nervously said. 

"Oh come on Dominique, you have been acting funny every since I got a phone call. What's going on?" 

She sighed, rolling her eyes at him, "Nik, I know that you said you are doing this because of you borrowing food from me or something, but why are you really doing this?" 

"That is the reason why I'm doing this. What? Were you hoping for another reason?" he said leaning closer, making Dominique swallow at his intense gaze. 

"No, I was just wondering. You never had a reason to do this before. I just thought it was something else." She shrugged. 

Nik shook his head as he saw her looking everywhere but at him. She was cute when she was flustered. It drove him crazy how she would bite down on his bottom lip. It was amazing the effect this girl would have on him. He shook his head trying to stay calm and keep his focus. Before he could divert his attention, Dominique caught the look in his eyes. There was something about those intense green eyes that made her knees buckle when he looked at her as if she was his last meal. She felt like it was being laid out for her; that was why she wanted Nik, because of that look. That look that made her feel like the sexiest creature around. Her friends always said she should take a chance; it was just sex right? 

She started walking towards him enjoying his eyes watching her the entire time. She stood next to him and he pushed away from the table wondering what she had planned next; she was a little unstable sometimes. She placed both hands on his shoulders and straddled his lap. She was eye level with him and her eyes quickly darted to his lips. His hands came around her body, pushing her closer to him by her lower back. 

"Is there anything you want me to do?" she said in a low seductive tone that shocked even her. 

Nik tried to mask his shock. "Wow, so are you making the demands now?" 

"I'm just asking if there is. I know normally this is the part where you make me do something." 

Nik stared back at her, mentally searching for something other than the idea that popped into his head when she said that. 

"Take off your jacket." He demanded and she complied, throwing the jacket on the open chair, "Now your shirt and take your hair down." 

Her hands went to the buttons on her shirt and slowly peeled them away, letting him see peeks of the black lace bra under her shirt. She slowly pulled it off as Nik wet his lips looking at her round globes. She took the combs out of her hair and shook it out. He watched her hair cascade down around her face, highlighting her exotic features. He leaned forward and lightly kissed her sweet lips. She tasted so good, it was almost like her lips were a drug and he couldn't quit. She ran her hands slowly down his chest, enjoying the way his muscles flexed under her touch. 

"Can I see you?" she whispered and he nodded at her small request. 

He let her unbutton his shirt, revealing his hard muscled olive toned skin. She sucked on her bottom lip as she pushed his shirt off his shoulders and he let it fall to the ground. Nik couldn't understand but for some reason, watching her take off his shirt was the sexiest thing that he ever seen. He was extremely turned on by the look in her eyes; it was desire with a mix of uncertainty. What was she uncertain about though? He hoped it wasn't about what she obviously wanted. 




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 03



She took a long sigh admiring his chest that clear of any hair and his muscled arms, which looked as if they would hold her tight. Oh yes, she didn't mind this one bit. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed his lips again. She heard the low growl from him as he possessed her mouth with his tongue. He was starting to get uncomfortable in this chair and needed to hurry out of it. He pulled her closer to him and stood up, wrapping her legs around his waist. She was actually shocked that he could pick her up so easily like that. 

He kicked open the door to his bedroom and walked over the bed without breaking their lips. She wanted him just as much as he wanted her. She was ready to feel wanted and desired, like only a man like him could. He laid her across the bed making sure to keep the intimate contact of their lips. She was sure her lips were going to be bruised but she didn't care, she loved his kisses. His hand traveled to down between her thighs and slowly raised it up to her center, making her jump on contact. She was a little nervous about being around him like this, but still, she wanted him. Nik, he felt like he could literally hear his own heart beating against his chest. It was weird for him to be nervous. He had to take a quick break and hopefully play it off so as not to alert Dominique. 

"Give me one minute, baby." He whispered against her lips and she just meekly nodded. 

He took everything out his pants pockets and sat it on the night stand before he walked back into the bathroom. Dominique ran her hand down her face, taking a deep breath. She didn't think he would stop so soon, but he must be doing his regular planning and plotting. She sat up on the bed and moved over to the head, patiently waiting and scanning the room. She peeked over at his wallet and could see a little of his driver's license. She wondered if his driver's license picture came out just as good as the ones in his house. She quickly glanced at the door before taking a look at it. 

"Yep." She said to herself looking at his picture perfect smile in the driver's license. She glanced at his name and did a double take when she saw his name. Nikolas Batista. Wait, Batista is his middle name? 

She thought back to Valentine's Day last year, the woman said that the man who she was supposed to meet was Batista. She never thought about it before, but it was weird that Nik just happened to be there without a date. Why would he not fess up to being her date? There was only one thought that came to her mind and she didn't want to think like that, but no other reason made sense. 

She sat the wallet down and scoffed to herself. Typical. She can't believe she thought better of him, but he was just typical. He came out the bathroom with a stupid grin on his face that she would like nothing better than to slap it off. Nik instantly saw the scowl on her face and stopped in his tracks. 

"What's the matter?" he asked, taking one step closer. 

"So, your middle name is Batista?" he stopped cold and his mouth dropped as if a bomb has been laid in front of him. 

"What?" was the only thing he could cough up. 

"Don't bullshit me. I saw your license; your middle name is Batista. The same name as the person that I was supposes to meet as my date." 

"Okay, Dominique I can explain." 

"Explain what? That you were pretty much didn't want to go out on a date with me, but try to make yourself look like the big hero?" she said pushing off the bed and getting into his face. 

"No, that's not it. It's complicated." 

"Oh yes, everything is so complicated." She scoffed, "Just admit that you wanted to just hang around and make yourself feel like the big hero because you didn't want to make me feel like I got stood up." 

"No, that's not it." He said walking closer to her. 

"Then why didn't you tell me before? Why didn't you say anything about the lady picking you?" he paused. 

He was literally at a loss for words and he couldn't think of anything to say. Normally he would still be able to persuade the girl back in the bed, but this is Dominique. The look on her face told him that she wasn't going for that and he didn't want to give her a line, but the truth sounded somewhat worse. She just shook her head and walked past him, picking her shirt off the floor. 

"Thanks a lot Nik for proving to me who you really are." She said, putting her shirt back on. 

"Dominique, please don't leave." He said, watching her grab all her stuff in a rush. 

"No, you know I have to leave and I won't need you anymore." And with that she walked out of the door leaving Nik standing there. 

He didn't like it. He didn't like this feeling one bit. He was actually ashamed of his actions. There were some things that he didn't regret especially when it came to women but he was actually ashamed and he didn't want Dominique to find out. Not like this. 

"Damn." He whispered, looking up at the ceiling. 

The next day, Dominique stayed at home trying to focus on her work. She just kept herself busy while she worked through most of the day. For the most part she was doing pretty well, but it never failed that her mind went back to Nik. She wanted to scream out whenever she did go back to him. This, whatever it was between the two of them, was over. She didn't need someone that manipulative in her life. She knew the picnic was later on today and she was debating with herself to not show up for it. She didn't want to see Nik's face anyway or pretend to be all nice to him. 

She was about to get up and grab some lunch when she saw Katrina walking in. Dominique stopped in her tracks blinking at her. 

"Oh, like you didn't know I had a key." Katrina said and Dominique just shook her head, "What are you doing? Shouldn't you be getting ready?" 

"I don't even know if I am going." Dominique said walking past her.

"Well, since you are the wedding planner, you kind of have to go." Katrina said, sitting in the closest chair she could find. 

"She can just tell me if she likes it or not and I will make the arrangements."

"What's going on with you? This is your chance to get Jason and talk to him, why are you missing that?" Katrina paused, "Unless the reason might not be Jason, but some other man." Dominique narrowed her eyes.

"Look, I don't know what you are hinting at but whatever it is, please stop."

"Dominique, seriously, what's going on? What happened?"

She was actually a little surprise that she hadn't heard anything from Nik, "I don't want to talk about it."

"Well, Nik called me and wanted to make sure that you were still going. I was wondering why he called me especially since he lives next door."

Dominique wondered how much she knew, "Remember my Valentine's Day date when Nik showed up after I thought my date stood me up?" Katrina nodded, "Nik was my date. I found out last night that his middle name is Batista." 

"Really?" 

"Yea and I don't want to be bothered with Nik again."

"Why not?"

"Because he lied about whom he was so he can pretend to be some guy saving me from a bad date."

"Did he tell you why he did that?"

"No, he couldn't actual come up with a reason when I busted him. I don't even know why I even care; it just fits everything that I thought he was."

"Well maybe, you thought something more about him. Maybe you actually started liking him."

"I think the hormones from your pregnancy are kicking in." Dominique said, plopping down on the couch.

"No, now wait a minute. I know you Dominique and I know you wouldn't care unless there was some sort of feelings you had for him."

Dominique huffed trying to avoid Katrina's accusing eyes. She nervously tapped her fingers on the couch, trying to keep her composure. She didn't want to say it but it was turning out to be a useless ordeal.

"Okay, maybe I liked him a little. He made me feel different. Special." She said shrugging her shoulders, "I mean I do have a tendency to feel like a girl every once in awhile and I let myself get suckered in to his big eyes and smooth talk."

"I don't think all of it was smooth talk."

"Katrina, now is not the time to be optimistic."

"Think about it Dominique, if he wanted the whole hero thing to make you want to sleep with him, why did he make the stipulation that you have to do whatever he says when he says it?"

"Duh, to sleep with me?"

"But he hasn't." Dominique's eyes immediately cut to Katrina, "From what you have told me, he already had opportunity to do just that." 

"Well...maybe he..." she groaned, "I don't know. I just don't know what's going on with this whole thing. I mean Katrina, he made me feel like he really cared and that I was the most beautiful thing in the world. It was nice to hear that from someone other than you guys."

"Well, Nik has his own reasons for why he did what he did and I'm pretty sure he will tell you, but you have to give him a chance to explain. Besides, you made him lie to the person that you want to be with. Now how would you think Jason would feel if he knew that you were pretending to be with someone else to be with him?" 

Dominique took a deep sigh, hating this guilt feeling, "I know. I know. I just have to think for a little bit."

"Well don't think too long. I am going out here for you and your friends." She said getting up from her chair and heading to the door.

"Katrina," she turned when she heard Dominique's small voice, "do you think I'm a little uptight?"

"Yes." She responded without so much as a moment to think about it which made Dominique's head jerk back, "Look Dominique, no matter if you are trying to impress Nik or Jason, you have to show them something different, especially Jason. You have to show him the fun side that we see." 

Dominique just nodded, "I'll see you later hopefully." She said leaving Dominique alone with her thoughts. 

As much as she hated to admit it, Katrina had a point. She couldn't judge Nik when she was pretty much doing the same thing to Jason. She got up from her chair and headed to her closet. Fun. She could do that; although, she was going to hate combing her hair out in the morning.

"So, did she say she was coming?" Ricky asked as they started walking closer to the site.

"I haven't talked to her. She is still not answering my calls."

"Explain to us again why you lied." James said.

"Hell, I'm not even sure. I mean you know how I get when it comes to commitment; then when I knew that it was her, I panicked, but I didn't want to just leave her there."

"Just a quick question Nik, do you like Dominique?" Scott asked.

"I like all women, so yes."

"No I mean, do you like her differently than other women? You sure are stressing out too much for you not to like her a little bit more." Scott pointed out.

"She is okay. I mean she is cool to hang around and stuff, but..." he stammered and couldn't think of anything else to say, it was a good thing his phone rang. He instantly bit his tongue when he saw who it was.

"Hello, mamma." He said.

"Ciao, il mio bambino, you haven't called your mother." 

"I know mamma, I have been a little busy. What has Ama told you?" he asked trying to get straight to the point.

"What are you talking about?"

"I know Ama has probably told you what happened the other night."

"Well, she just said something about you cooking for a girl, that's it. She must be something special for my son to be cooking for her."

"Mom, it was one meal."

"Son, I know how you are with women, you don't allow them to stay that long for you to cook for them. Why don't you bring her with you when you come down?"

Even though, Nik was born in New York, his dad built a house in a small city in Texas when Nik was just one years old. They vacationed between there and New York before they finally settled for Texas. 

"Mom, I told you she is nothing but a friend."

"I know bambino, but with everyone bringing someone, you should have a little company too. If it's your friend then you wouldn't have to worry about anything." He knew this tactic and knew that he wasn't going to win unless he said yes. 

"Alright mamma, I will see if she can come. If not, can you and everyone please drop it?"

"Prometto, mio bambino. Ciao."

"Ciao mamma." He hung up.

"Did you just agree to bring Dominique to your parents' house?" James said,

"Unfortunately."

"How are you going to do that when you two aren't even talking to each other?" Ricky asked.

"One headache at a time please." Nik sighed as he saw the happy couple sitting on the blanket while Jade, Kendra, and Katrina sat on another blanket.

"Nik, thank you so much for coming." Candy smiled as they laid out some more blankets.

"Oh it's no problem at all."

"Oh and thanks Katrina and Jade for fixing the baskets too." She said walking over to them and giving them both a big hug.

"It's no problem at all. I think this would be a gorgeous place for your wedding." Jade smiled.

"I think so too." Candy smiled, "Where is the baby, Kendra?" 

"Oh, he is with his grandparents. They told me not to bring him out here and since I am scared of my mother, I listened to her." She said and they all started laughing. 

"Hey, you know I had to bring the pig skin." Ricky said taking it out of his bag for everyone to see and all the men nodded with smiles.

"That's what I'm talking about. Let's have some fun out here, while these women do their girlie stuff." James said.

"Speaking of which, where is Dominique?" Jason asked turning his eyes to Nik.

"She should be here; she told me she would be late." Nik quickly commented.

"And you didn't wait on her?" Jason said standing to full height.

"She didn't want me to." Nik said clearing his throat.

"Well, does she even know her way here? What if she gets lost?" Jason said not taking his eyes off Nik.

Nik's left eyebrow raised; something that usually happened when he was getting angry, "That's why they invented cell phones, she can call me and I can go get her." 

"That still doesn't mask the fact that you left her."

"You know I'm not exactly her shadow, so I don't have to be under her 24/7 and know her every move." Nik said stepping closer to Jason, not realizing his fists were balled tight in his pockets. 

"I'm just saying, you should have come all together so we can be sure she finds her way here."

Nik was about to open his mouth when he heard, "Hey, now I'm a big girl," they both turned to the voice and saw Dominique standing there with a huge smile on her face, "I can find my way around."

Nik's eyes scanned her body in amazement. She was wearing a pair of dark blue jeans that held her ample bottom and white halter top that molded against her breasts. Her hair was up in a high ponytail with a few strands down around her face. He has seen her half naked, but seeing her like this was starting to make every inch of his body stand at attention. 

"Hey baby. I missed you." She said walking between the two tall men and wrapping her arms around Nik's neck.

She brought his head down for a brief kiss as everyone stood there in shocked, even Nik had a brief look of amazement in his eyes and quickly shook it off. Looks like Dominique is full of surprises he thought to himself as he hugged her close.



Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 04



Dominique was actually a little shocked by how much fun she was having with everyone, including Candy. She didn't let anything between her and Nik hinder her from being all over him and playing touch-football with everyone but Katrina. Candy decided to have the wedding there and Dominique put on a fake smile as she made notes in her planner. What shocked Dominique more was the permanent smile that she had every since she showed up. Nik was actually playing along nicely and she allowed herself to fall into the lie briefly, despite what happened the other night. 

As everyone was leaving, Nik followed Dominique to her car in silence, which was killing him. Just a few minutes ago, she looked so free and happy, like she enjoyed herself and now; it was back to the old Dominique. He liked seeing her with that smile on her face, it did something to him. He felt like a heel every time he thought about her finding out his full name. He needed to explain it to her, but he could barely explain it to himself. 

"Dominique, I'm glad that you came." He finally said and she nodded, not even glancing his way. He needed to get this out. He grabbed her arm and turned her towards him, "Look, we need to talk about the other night." She stuffed her hands in her pockets, staring back at him, "The reason why I didn't tell you about me being Batista is not the reason you think it is. I mean, I'm not ashamed to admit it; I may have a little problem with commitment. When that old woman said something about I would meet the person I was supposed to be with, I was a little skeptically, but intrigued. Then when I saw it was you, I got a little scared. Hell, your little pack of friends already claimed two of mine." He chuckled lightly and she couldn't help but to return that smile, "I'm sorry that I didn't tell you earlier, but I didn't do in an attempt to make me look like a hero or anything like that. I mean, look at me, I don't have to play any games." He said flashing his killer smile.

Dominique just shook her head, "That almost sounded sincere until that last part, but I believe you. I shouldn't have gotten upset like that especially with everything that I'm making you do for me right now." 

"Did what happened inspire your outfit today? Because I have to tell you, you look smoking hot in jeans." He said noticeably checking her out. 

"Nik, please. I just thought that I would be a little presentable today."

"Well, I like it and it seems that your boy toy is watching too." Nik said briefly looking off.

"Are you serious? He is like watching us, right now? With Candy watching?" 

"I don't think she is paying attention; she is talking to Jade right now."

"Oh, wow." The smile that spread across her face made Nik jealous a little, "So, what should we do about that?"

"Well, I think the way we are standing and looking at each other is making it look like there's a little trouble in paradise, so" he hinted pulling her closer to him as his body heat instantly relaxed her, "we should make a good show, huh?" he whispered before kissing her softly, feeling her body rest against his.

He always knew how to make her melt, she thought bitterly as she wrapped her arms around his neck. He grabbed a hold of her hips, drawing her closer to him as he pushed his tongue into her willing mouth. She didn't want to make this a habit that every time he touched her, she would forget why she was mad at him. She pulled away briefly, but he quickly closed the gap again with a bold urgency that she never felt from him before that made her knees buckle.

"Are you trying to make this look really good?" she whispered against his lips.

"Well, I always have been known for being a good actor. Plus there maybe a possibility that I miss your lips." He said and she shook her head stepping away from him as he laughed. 

"Why do you have to play like that?"

"I'm not playing, but I do have a favor to ask and it's slightly big. I need your help."

"Oh, you need my help for a change? What's going on?"

"Remember I told you my father is retiring and they are having a big party for that and my parent's anniversary?" she nodded, "I was wondering if you would come with me."

"Wait. You want me to pretend to be your girlfriend to your family? No, I can't lie to your family."

"You are not lying and you don't have to pretend. Look, my big mouth sister, Ama, told my mother that you were over at my house and I was cooking for you, so she wants to meet you."

"Just because you cooked dinner and I happened to be there? What's the big deal?"

"I told you Dominique, I don't do that for everyone and apparently, my family knows that so she wants to see you. I told her I would ask and see if you want to go."

Dominique frowned, wondering if he even wanted her there, "You don't sound too excited about me being there."

He instantly shook his head, "No, it's not that. It's just I don't want my family to make a big deal out of this and I have a feeling that they are."

"Why do you say that? I'm sure you have brought plenty of girls home to meet your parents." There was a brief silence before he slowly shook his head, "None? At all? I'm the first?" he nodded, "I don't like this no more." She said suddenly loosing her breath.

"Come on Dominique, I know it sounds a little overwhelming but it will be alright. I already told them that you are my friend so nothing is going on between us."

"You are bringing me to meet them? I am the first girl that you are bringing over there; how could they not think that something is not going on between us."

"Dominique, come on now. You can go and have fun with some Italians. That and if you tell boy toy over there that I went to see my parents and you didn't, he could think that something was suspicious." He hoped that he had roped her with that last statement. 

She took a long sigh, trying to think of something to say but in reality, he had a point, "If I do this, then this whole I do what you say when you say it thing is over. Deal?" Damn, he thought to himself, "Deal." He reluctantly said, "Do we seal the deal with a kiss."

"You already had your kiss, buddy." She said folding he arms, "So, when do we leave, so I can arrange some things in my schedule."

"You can't just go on a vacation and enjoy it, can you?"

"I do sometimes, but this is going to be different. You said you don't live far from here?"

"Yea, maybe five hour drive from here. It's by the coast and the weather is going to be real nice, so wear more jeans." He said giving her another look.

"Nik, stop being such an ass." She said feeling hot under his glare.

"Well, just my opinion," He nodded, "but really, I do like what you are wearing." He ended by pulling her close to him, wrapping his arm around her lower back.

"Well thank you very much and no I didn't wear it for you." She said trying to put some distance between them by placing her hand on his chest.

She tried not to stare into those sensual eyes that held so many promises. She had to admit that the connection was getting more intense at times but she didn't pull away. There was that girlie side of her that always snuck in and enjoyed the extra attention. She could allow herself to feel desirable for little bit.

"Hey you two, you thought about getting a room." They both turned and saw Jason standing behind her.

"Hey, what's going on?" she said turning in Nik's embrace.

"I was just wondering if something was wrong; you two have been standing around here for a while."

"We are just enjoying the scenery." Nik smiled, laying his chin on her shoulder.

"Actually, we were talking about plans for this weekend."

"Oh, well I was going to see if you wanted to hang out a little this weekend. I have some spare time and Candy is flying out to New York to try on a couple of dresses." He was alone, she thought smiling to herself.

The moment Dominique finally waited for; he was going to be alone for the weekend and she could really win him over, "Um, I could possibly do that. I will let you know." She said and instantly felt the hold around her waist loosen.

"Alright, I will give you a call." He smiled, "Hey man, no hard feelings about earlier. I just worry about her sometimes."

"That's sweet man, it really is, but it's not your job to worry about her. Anyway, I'll catch you later, baby." He said moving away from her and heading over to his car.

Dominique's brow wrinkled in confusion at Nik's sudden outburst. It wasn't till he got to his car that she put it all together and she felt like slapping herself across the face. What could be going through Nik's mind since she just told Jason that there was a possibility that they will see each other this weekend? Well, he should understand, right? That was the whole point of them pretending to be together, but she still felt like a first class heel. She watched him burn rubber down the street, leaving her standing there with her thoughts. 

The next day, she was pacing her apartment rationalizing with herself on what she wanted to do. She already promised Nik that she would go, but she couldn't miss this opportunity to be alone with Jason. Little miss perfect is going away for the weekend and she could have him all to herself, but for some reason the thought didn't really appease her now. The worst part was that she has been trying to call Nik and he hasn't picked up his phone. How did it go from her being mad at him to him being mad at her? She was about to go to the kitchen when she heard the door bell. Must be one of her friends, she thought as she went to answer the door.

"Hello ma'am, I'm from the phone company and I'm just here to check your phone since you haven't called your younger brother." She looked up and saw Taro standing there.

"Very funny." She said shaking her head and walking away from him. 

"So, what's up? You don't want to call me or is it that you are too busy?" he said showing off his cute boyish smile that made girls swoon.

She always thought her brother was adorable in his own little way. He was a little taller than Dominique, but inherited his father's looks. She remembered that people use to always compare him to Jet Li, but he would just laugh that off. In truth he really does and she couldn't quite understand why he was still single, other than being picky. Taro was more of a skater guy, she tried to make him look more professional but, he wasn't having that. He liked to be comfortable but still be in designer clothes. He has his own house and owns a successful photography business. She remembered the last relationship he had was eight months ago. 

"Um, I have been a little preoccupied." She said plopping down on the couch.

"That doesn't mean that you cut me out. What's going on little sister? How is the book?" he said walking around the place, a little habit he always had when he comes here.

"It's going good. It should be released in a couple of months."

"How is Katrina?" he said with a little smile and she just shook her head.

"She is still married, pregnant, and happy." She listed.

"So, are you pretty much saying that I have no shot?" 

"In the long run, yes; me, on the other hand, I am confused."

"Well that's normal." He said sitting next to her as she looked at him up and down, "What's going on?"

"Jason is in town and he is getting married." She sighed.

"Jason? Isn't that the guy you had a huge crush on when we were little?"

"Yes, it is and I think I started something in my haste to get him back." 

She went through the whole story of how she got Nik into this and everything that she had planned, leaving out the deal her and Nik made. After she was done with the story, Taro just sat there staring at her.

"Wow, I'm shocked. I didn't know you had that kind of deviousness inside of you." He said with a hint of a smile.

"I know, I feel terrible about hurting Nik's feelings like that, but I don't want to miss this chance with Jason."

"I'm still shocked. Dominique, why are you going after a man that's not yours? You are so much better than that."

"It's not that I'm going after him and besides, he was mine first." She pouted.

"No, he wasn't. Ya'll have always been just friends and you haven't made any moves on him. Now you brought this other guy in the mix."

"Why do you have to make me feel worse than I already do? Besides, I think me and Jason will be great together."

"Okay sis, let me ask you, would you want me to lie to you or tell you honestly what I think?"

"I'm scared to hear what you think." 

"I think you should go with this Nik guy. He sounds like he doesn't ask for much and that he could be feeling you a little bit." He nodded pulling his skull cap further down his head.

"You just don't know Nik. I mean he is the typical player and wants a different girl every night."

"If that was so true, why is he wasting so much time with you? If he can truly have any woman he wants, why hasn't he used his gifts on other women since you two have been pretending?" Dominique swallowed hard, running her fingers through her hair.

She wouldn't admit it but he somewhat had a point, "I thought I had the degree in therapy and you are here trying to counsel me." 

"Hey, what can I say?" he shrugged, "I'm multi-talented. Now, let me give you a deciding factor before you do this: do you like Nik?" he asked and Dominique nibbled on her lower lip considering the question that she has asked herself several times. After all her emotional meltdowns that she put Nik through, she should do something for him, right?

The next day, Dominique hurried out of bed and jogged her mile and half on the treadmill. She hadn't contacted Nik with what she decided to do about today. She was stepping out of her normal comfort zone, but hell, why not for just once. She did hear that he was leaving around ten so she hurried and threw on a turquoise flowing summer halter dress and denim jacket. Well, here goes everything, Dominique thought to herself as she looked in the mirror one more time before grabbing her bag and heading out the door. She was taking a risk assuming that Nik hadn't left yet, but she had to have some sort of hope. She was about to knock on the door but jumped back when it swung open and Nik was standing there with his own bags and Armani dark shades on. Her eyes scanned the rest of his body in a black button down shirt with dark blue jeans that fit him very nicely especially around his thighs. For someone on a cop's salary, he sure can dress. She shook her head and looked back into his covered eyes. 

"What are you doing here?" he asked not even bothering to remove his shades. 

"Well, I made a promise to you about going to see your family and I don't break my promises; most of them." 

"What about lawyer boy?" he quickly asked. 

"I already told him I have plans with my boyfriend, so he will just have to live with it." Dominique breathed a sigh of relief when she saw the corner of his lips turned up, "I'm glad you changed your mind. Now we have to get on the road, it's about a five hour trip with stops." 

"Okay, well I made some food, so that should eliminate some of the stops." She said holding up a basket. 

"Good thinking." He took her bag and lugged everything down to his truck. 

After loading the bags, they took off down the road. Dominique text Katrina and Jade to let them know so they can check in on her place. She fumbled with her planner, realizing that she was a little bit nervous about this going away for the weekend thing. She didn't want to make a big deal out of it, but it sort of was. She never got that far meeting a guy's parents and even though they weren't dating, it still made her nervous.

"So, am I going to hear a lot of Italian this weekend?" she finally asked, thinking that talking would make her feel a little better. He smiled, "More than likely. My mom and dad were both born in Italy, it's just my dad stayed longer than my mom. He use to serve in the Italian navy and moved here and met my mom. Even though English was his second language, he learned it real well and quick."

"So, your dad served as well? Is this a trend with the men in your family to be in the armed forces?"

"Not really. It's just both my mom and dad wanted all of us to go to college. My brothers knew that if there was any college money saved up, it was going to go to the girls. So, all three of us got into the military; my youngest brother is in the navy now." 

"Wow, I can't believe how big your family is and you seem pretty close."

"Well, just like any other family, we bicker and argue, but at times of crisis we are always there." Any other family but mine, Dominique thought with a sigh.

She just took a deep sigh and pretended to be interested in what was going on outside. She didn't want to think about how families are suppose to be. She had enough examples of that looking at Katrina's family. She knew this was going to be a long weekend and she wasn't sure what to expect. That was the scary thing; she was always prepared for anything, but now she was going into this thing blindfolded. Well, at least all of her friends knew where she was heading too. Dominique laid her head against the back of her chair and slowly felt her eyes getting heavy. 

Dominique didn't even realize she had fallen asleep till she felt someone shaking her. She sat straight up, trying to collect herself as Nik looked on with a smile on his face, "I'm sorry, you looked so cute when you were sleep, but I had to wake you up." 

"I see, are we almost there?" Dominique yawned.

"Yep, about a good ten minutes away." 

Dominique looked outside and saw trees and fields galore with nice houses in between. Wow, the scenery looked so beautiful, she thought as he pulled into one house with a lush garden that rivaled her mother's. Her mouth instantly dropped as she stared at the two story house that was modeled after a very small Italian villa. 

"Nik, this is beautiful." She said in awed.

"I know, my dad got some of his friends together and they built this for my mom as a wedding present."

"Seriously, so this has been in the family?"

"Yea, and they want to keep it that way." He said getting out of the car and she followed behind him, "Now, don't let my sisters scare you away too bad, they can be a bit pushy sometimes and my brothers, well, they may flirt with you a little."

"So, none of them are married?"

"Well, Rafael is engaged and Gianni, well with his career, he can't afford to get married right now." he said noticing the way his tone dropped when he mentioned his older brother.

"How close were you?" she asked as he took out some of the bags.

"Real close. I wanted to be him, but after I realized what he actual does; I didn't want to hang out with him much. Then when he found out what I was doing, he really laid into me. That's one reason, why I wanted to move away to go into the police squad." She nodded, trying to take one of her bags from him, "No, you will not. You will not have my mother tongue lash me for letting your carry your own bags."

"It's okay, I'm a big girl now." 

"I know you are, but I will not hear the end of it if I let you." 

"Well, I will explain it to her." Dominique said grabbing the handle to her roll away bag and when she looked up, she was met with Nik's lips against hers in a light chaste kiss. One that she never had with Nik before; it was sweet and made little butterflies in her stomach, but she felt him holding back. Once she felt that, she realized she didn't want him to hold back. She dropped the handle and pressed her body against his, wrapping her arms around his neck. As her body pressed against his, Nik felt his control on the edge. He meant for it to end quickly, but he couldn't pull away; he had to actually feel her lips. 

He quickly realized where they were and pulled away and met her dark slanted eyes, "Mmm, I had to get one taste to last me the weekend."




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 04



"Right," Dominique quickly said pulling away from him, "because they would ask questions if we do it in the house?" she nodded.

"Well, knowing my folks, we will be in the pool house because my room is no longer my room."

"Really? They converted your room?"

"Yea, show you how much they love me." He shrugged, closing the back trunk and heading to the door. 

She followed behind him and her nose was assaulted by the fresh flowery scent. Dominique gawked at the array of roses arranged in front of the house. His mom must have a real green thumb. He knocked on the door and she could hear the foreign tongue behind the door which made her a little bit nervous.

"Quick! How do I say hello?" she whispered.

"Ciao but for my mom and dad you may want to say Buon pormeriggio." He said. 

"Bueno who?" she said as her eyes widen.

"Just say ciao and I will explain it later." He smiled shaking his head and looked back up as the door swung open.

"Ciao fratello." The man said enveloping Nik in a big hug. He must be Rafaela, he looked like a younger version of Nik but shorter.

"Ciao, come siete, grande testa?" Nik smiled and Rafael just shook his head,

"I see you still have jokes." He said. Finally some English, Dominique thought.

"Hey, I have to pick on my little brother." Rafael's eyes shifted to Dominique.

"Who is this? Is this a girl you are bringing home?" 

"This is my friend, Dominique."

"Um, ciao." She meekly said and he took her hand.

"Ciao bella. Why don't you come in? I see why mom can't wait to see you." He said making room for the both of them to come in. 

Dominique took a look around the house. It reminded her of the pictures that Jade said she wanted to decorate the bed and breakfast that James was working on. She would love this house then. Dominique loved the colors that meshed so well together. She suddenly looked up when she heard chatter coming from the kitchen from four different voices.

"Mamma!" Nik called and all chattering stopped.

Suddenly a beautiful older woman came through the door with a big smile on her face, "Oh, mio bambino!" She said rushing to him and delivering kisses on his cheeks, "Siete cosi bello ma voi sia troppo scarno." 

"Mamma." He whined which made Dominique smile harder. 

After the mother, three more beautiful girls came out of the kitchen; two of them looking just like his mom. Those must be his sisters, she thought. They all came and hugged Nik, firing off in Italian to him. Rafael stood close by Dominique waiting for the moment.

"I don't know if you ever been around Italian women Dominique, but this is going to be an interesting experience for you. See they pounce on him first because they know about you coming, but wait till he actually acknowledges that you are here." Rafael whispered.

"Should I be afraid?" she smiled looking up at him.

"Definitely." He smiled back and she just chuckled.

"Mamma," Nik finally got out walking towards Dominique, "this is Dominique, my friend." 

"Ciao." Dominique meekly waived.

"Ciao, I am Giada, but you can call me Ada. Well, aren't you a beautiful girl that somehow got mixed up with my son?" her voice was as smooth as silk with her accent.

"How did that happen?" one of the raven haired girls responded.

"I guess it was his lucky day." Dominique shrugged.

"Well, I obviously still have to teach my son's some manners for letting you carry your own bag." She said noticing Dominique's hand still on her bag.

"Oh, um, I told him to let me bring it here. I didn't want him to hurt himself carrying my bag and his." She breathed.

"Are you nervous, caro?" Ada asked.

"I maybe a little bit." She smiled.

"Oh don't be. We are just a normal family and you can relax as if we were your family." If you only knew, Dominique thought with a smile, "I should also talk to my son about not teaching you some Italian." 

"Mamma, there was no time." Nik sighed.

"Maybe when you were cooking for her, you could have taught her." One of the sisters teased with shorter hair. 

Dominique was starting to realize that she like that these women can make him feel so uncomfortable. She looked up at him and saw him shaking his head.

"Figlio, you are not a rock star, you can take the sunglasses off in the house. Now you and Rafael take the bags into the pool house. Dominique is coming in the kitchen with us." She smiled and Dominique saw the smiles on the other three faces. Suddenly she felt like she was being thrown to the wolves.

"Um, am I going to be grilled?" Dominique asked.

"Of course not honey." Ada smiled.

"That means yes." Rafael and Nik chimed.

"Nonsense, come on. You can help us cook for tonight." Dominique nodded with a smile.

"Mamma, where is papa and Gianni?" Nik asked.

"Oh, Papa, Gianni, and Armad went to get some wood for tonight; you know it gets cold out here."

"Yep, it gets cold enough for people to snuggle up with each other." The short hair sister said laughing and Dominique looked back at Nik with pleading eyes before she disappeared into the kitchen. 

The more Dominique sat with the ladies and talked, the more she was loosening up to them. She was shocked at how much they opened themselves up to her and how sweet they were. Ada reminded her of Aunt Crystal, so warm and nurturing; the way she always wanted her mom to be. His two sisters reminded her of her brothers: Amadora was the oldest and free spirit that talked about constantly changing her hair and Fiorenza was the youngest that constantly talked about her husband Armad and how happy she was now. The other woman with the dark brown hair was Rafael fiancée, Mika and she reminded her of Katrina. Her and Rafael grew up together and fell in love back in high school. Now they were preparing for a wedding which she still wasn't sure what date to set. Dominique was actually content helping the ladies prepare dinner and learning more embarrassing stories about Nik and the family.

"Was Nik really that big when he was younger?" Dominique asked, helping Mika with vegetables. 

"Oh dear, he was a huge little ball." Amadora said, giggling, "He outweighed all the little kids back in school." She laughed with Fiorenza.

"Now don't pick on my little fudge ball." Ada softly said, but instantly quieted the two sisters, "He was a little big for his age, but when he started working out with Gianni, he started to feel a lot better. Nik always thought his siblings looked better than him and he used to be so sad when he was younger, but now he knows he is handsome." She proudly smiled.

Wow, Dominique couldn't really imagine Nik with low self esteem, it was actually kind of refreshing to hear that, "So, Dominique, what do you do?" Fiorenza asked.

"I'm a therapist. I have a small practice back home."

"Oh, so maybe you can figure out what's wrong with our brothers." Amadora said with a smile.

"Hey now, my Rafael is good, he can be a little special at times, but I love him all the same." Mika said with a smile.

"How did you and my Nik meet, Dominique?" Ada asked.

"Well, he is friends with my friend's husband, Scott."

"Oh Scotty, that's a nice looking young man." Amadora said, "His wife is really pretty too. So, what's going on between you and Nik?"

Dominique was actually prepared for this question, "Well, we are just friends. He lives next door to me and we have just been helping each other out."

"Oh, that's it?" Fiorenza asked with a smile. Dominique quickly cleared her throat, "Yes, that's it. He has been a nice guy and a good friend."

"Well, Alfonso and I started out as good friends and you see where I am now. That's the best type of relationship to have is when you start off as friends and grow into something else because that person knows you already and excepts all your faults. It's a wonderful feeling to have your husband as your best friend." Ada said.

"Yes it is." Mika chimed and Dominique just smiled.

How far did they really expect them to go? They were just friends, true she did enjoy kissing him, but they were nothing but friends. After this, Nik would go back to what he usually do and ignore her. 

Dominique was just about to say something when Nik, Rafaela, and an older looking version of Nik walked in the door. Wow, he was really good looking for an older man; his hair was covered in gray which only made him look more distinguish. He still had a lean body with muscled arms. That has to be his dad and she could see how they made such beautiful children. 

"Il mio amore, you didn't tell me I would have another beautiful woman in my kitchen." He said, kissing Ada on her forehead.

"Blame your son, she is his friend. Dominique, this is my husband Alfonso." 

He walked over to her and grabbed her hand to kiss the back of it, "Ciao." Dominique meekly said with a smile.

"Come siete, bella signora?" oh yea he was definitely Nik's dad. 

So, that's who he learned his skills from. Nik came and stood next to Dominique as Alfonso went back over to Ada. 

"Well Nikky, looks like you found a very lovely woman. You know your mother doesn't let just anybody in her kitchen." Alfonso said with his heavy accent. 

"I know papa, but Dominique is a friend of mine." He said and both of his sisters looked at him with a quizzical stare. 

"Yes friends. Well, I was friends with Ada before. When we were kids back in Italy, I use to terrorize her and tease her mercilessly. Then one day after I took one of her barrettes out of her and pushed her down on the ground. She got up, smacked me across the face, took back her barrette and walked over me as if nothing happened." Dominique started laughing as Ada nodded her head.

"My grandmother just bought me that barrette so I wasn't going to let him take it." Ada added.

"After that we became friends and then she moved away to the states three years later. When I came to the states, I found her at a dance club and I found out that she was the one; when I danced with her." 

"That's so sweet." Dominique smiled, "So, what are you going to do now that you are retiring, sir?"

"Well, after getting past tomorrow, I plan on helping out around the house and possibly taking some trips with my wife. We are thinking about going back to Italy and visit some family." 

"That will be nice." Dominique said, "So, what's the plan for tomorrow?"

"Well, the guys decided to hold off the retirement party till Sunday, but we are going to have our anniversary tomorrow night." Ada said, "I just need to confirm some things with the hotel we are having it at and go shopping. Dominique, you should come with us. My friend that owns a dress store has a killer dress that would be perfect for you."

"Really for me? Sure, I would love to come with you."

"Great, I can't wait to go shopping." Ama said going over to rinse off the lettuce.

"Please Ama, something that covers all the important parts up." Alfonso said and Ama just pouted as everyone else laughed.

"So Dominique, you heard about us, what about your family?" Ada asked.

Now that question she wasn't prepared for. Dominique's mouth dropped and she quickly closed it, trying to think in her head what to say.

"So dad, where is Gianni?" Nik interrupted, bringing everyone's attention to him. 

"Well, he said he will be back. He had some work that he had to do. You know Gianni is always busy working." Alfonso smiled, shaking his head.

Nik meekly smiled thinking in his head if they only knew what he did. The subject of Dominique's family was dropped as they finished preparing dinner. They ate together at the huge table and sat around afterwards as the men started the fireplaces. Dominique went ahead and called her friends to let them know she made it and she was okay. Before they could ask anything else about her and Nik, she went ahead and made up some excuse about having to go. Things were confusing enough without them confusing her further. 

She needed some fresh air and wanted to see more of their house. She marveled at the acres of land they had out in the back. In the center was a small pool house and then behind it was a crystal blue lake. Everything was so plush and green, even when she took a deep inhale, she could smell the various flowers. Wow, his dad picked a great spot when he built this house. A sudden chill came over her and she wrapped her arms around her but felt something being draped over her shoulders. She looked up and saw Nik standing next to her.

"Thanks." She smiled quickly looking away from him.

"No worries; have you gotten tired of everyone hounding over you?" he asked with a smile.

"No, your family is great. Your mom and dad are so cute. I hope that one day I can have something like that."

"I told you, they really inspired me." She nodded, "Well everyone is about to turn in, if you want, you can go ahead and go the pool house."

"Okay, it's so nice out here. How did you not fall in love with being here?"

"I did. That little swing over there." He pointed to a small swing in front of the lake, "I built that with my dad. I use to come out here and relax, especially after the days some of the kids would pick on me. It helped out a bit."

"I thought you were going to say that you brought your dates out here."

"Remember, you are the first girl that I brought to my house. Besides, something about sharing that moment with someone else, that's sacred to me." Dominique smiled as she looked up at Nik staring at the lake. 

She couldn't explain why, but she wanted to kiss him again. She admits the kissing thing was getting out of hand but at this point she didn't mind or care. She just urgently wanted to feel his lips. Her hand touched his forearm, lightly tugging him to face her. His green eyes stared back into hers as they darkened. It was nice to know that he felt the same way. She was about to kiss him, when the glass door slide open. They both turned at the intruder that had a smile on his hard face.

"Well, well, Nikky. I had to see it to believe." He said.

Dominique instantly notices the tension in Nik's arm and she knew who he was, "Hello Gianni." Nik responded. 

"Long time, no see and this must be the lovely lady that I heard about. Dominique right?" he said taking her hand, "You brought home a cute one I see." He said leering at her and kissing the back of her hand.

"Hello." Dominique smiled, ready to take her hand away.

"Please to meet you." He said staring back at her but didn't let go of her hand.

"Dominique, can you go to the pool house please?" Nik said not taking his eyes off Gianni.

That seemed like a good idea, Dominique thought as she took her hand away and walked over to the pool house, leaving the two giant men alone.

"Got you a cute little blasian girl, I see." Gianni said with a smile.

"What's going on with you Gianni? Still telling mom and dad you doing honest work?"

"Nikky, I told you before, do not judge me on what I do." 

"Well I can't help but think it's something you shouldn't be doing in the first place. Do you know how dangerous it is? Then God forbid if something happens to you, what do you expect me to tell mom and dad?"

"That's why I'm getting out." He said softly, but Nik quickly caught it.

Nik closed his mouth finding his voice, "What?"

"I'm getting out. I can't do this anymore." He stuffed his hands in his pockets and Nik relaxed a bit, "I'm 35 years old, never been married, seen and done some things that you never believe and in the end I have nothing to show for it. Hell, Fiorenza is married, Rafaela is getting married, and even you brought home someone. I know it shouldn't be long till Amadora says she is getting married to that artist dude she has been dating. Me? I have nothing."

"When did you tell them you are getting out?"

"It was a week ago. I have been setting up some place to go. I need to get away from here, so I won't have the past come back for me."

"Come back home with me. My friends Scott and James are there and it's very relaxing and not only that but I have the police force behind me."

"I don't know man."

"That's where Scott met Katrina and that's where I met Dominique." Nik hinted.

"Oh, so they got women that look like that over there? Well, maybe I should come and check it out." He said with a smile and Nik laughed, "But, I am going to need your help baby brother if I do. Just get me a place and a job." 

"You got it."

"Well, I will let you get back to your girl." Gianni smiled.

"She's just my friend." Nik reminded, Gianni looked back at him and chuckled, "Yea, right." He said going back into the house.

Nik shook his head and headed over to the pool house. His body was worn out and tired so he was ready to hit the sheets. He went into the bedroom and saw Dominique sitting at the edge of the bed with that same satin short robe and her hair down around her face. Damn she looked so cute sitting there waiting on him, at least he can dream she is waiting on him.

"Are you okay?" she asked staring back at him.

"Yea, he told me is getting out."

"That's great." She smiled.

"I know, it just seems a little unreal after so long."

"Um, they didn't mention that this has just one bed." She chuckled and he shook his head.

"Yea," he said scratching the back of his head, "if it makes you feel comfortable I can sleep on the couch out there and you can take the bed." He said hoping that she wouldn't take that deal. 

"Nik, we are two adults. I think we can handle sleeping in the same bed together." She said before she could stop herself. She has been having a lot of slips of the tongue around him lately.

"Are you sure?" he asked.

"Yea, I'm sure. Like I said we can handle it." She smiled standing up from bed and untying her robe. 

Nik went and grabbed his pajama pants and caught a glimpse of Dominique sliding the robe down her shoulders revealing the satin light blue camisole top with matching shorts. Now, he wasn't sure if he can handle it. He took a deep inhale and went into the bathroom to get all his hormones together. 

Dominique snuggled in bed bundling the covers around her. If she had known that they were going to be sharing a bed, she would have packed more appropriate night wear. She sighed to herself as he came out of the bathroom baring his hard chiseled chest. Dominique wanted to pull the covers over her head so he wouldn't catch her staring. She turned on her side with the covers pulled up to her neck. She felt the bed dip and some of the covers being pulled away from her. She took a deep inhale feeling his body heat. Okay, you can do this, she tried to calm her body down 

"Dominique, thanks again for coming." She heard him say.

"Oh, no problem. I'm happy I came." She quickly said, "Good night." 

"Night." She heard him mutter and then the room was cast into darkness. She finally relaxed a little and felt her eye lids get heavy as she fell into slumber.

The next morning, Dominique felt so warm, but something was poking her bottom. She backed into it, trying to see if she could push it out of the bed, but no matter how much she pushed it didn't budge. She wasn't sure what it was, but it was thick. 

"Dominique, if you don't want something to happen this morning, I suggest you stop backing into me." She heard Nik mutter and she instantly sat up.

"Sorry. Sorry. Sorry. Sorry." She repeated looking over at him.

"It's no problem Dominique, just be a little careful." He smiled.

She ran her fingers through her hair and laid back down, "Is there a specific time that your family gets up for breakfast? It seems like your family would have breakfast together." 

"We do, it's usually around nine, which means, and you have an extra hour to spare."

"Oh no, I have to get up and go jogging or something." She said about to get out of bed and Nik quickly pulled her back in.




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 04



"Dominique, you are on vacation, which means you relax and stay in bed for a little bit longer."

"And do what?"

He shrugged, settling back against the pillow, "Well you could always go back to sleep or just lie here." 

Lay in bed? Dominique gazed back at him as if he grew an extra head. She was supposed to lie in bed and not do anything. She never has done that before. She would normally get out of bed as soon as she woke up. She laid down on her back staring up at the ceiling feeling her body tense. Nik opened one eye looking at her, "You know, you can relax a little."

She sighed out loud trying to get comfortable. Nik pulled her closer to him and that's when she realized that heat she felt was coming from him. The contact lulled her body to slump against his and she turned on her side to face him. 

"See, you didn't turn into a pillar of salt or nothing." Nik commented with a small smile.

"You think you are so funny." 

"I know I am. I would give you a good morning kiss, but I know you didn't brush your teeth." Her mouth flew open in shock as his smile spread wider, "Oh really, that's what stopping you." She smiled.

She leaned over and kissed him. His nose wrinkled so she kissed him again and again. Soon the little pecks turned a little lengthier. He pulled her over to him and pressed his lips firmly drinking in her lips. She ran her hand softly up his arm, massaging the back of his neck. He maneuvered her on top of her not breaking the connection. He ran his fingers through her hair as he pushed his tongue deeper in her mouth. She moaned lightly, nibbling on his bottom lip. She was going to drive him up the wall, he thought. He had to have her. He let one hand linger at her waist, slowly pushing the top up. Just like a magnet, her body pulled towards his hand relaxing her completely on top of his.

"I have to get this off." He whispered in between kisses and all she could was nod.

Just before he could lift the shirt up, they both heard someone clearing their throat in the room. Dominique quickly got off of Nik and pulled the covers over her head. Nik looked over and saw Gianni standing there with a smug smile on his face.

"Mamma, told me to come get you two for breakfast. She started a little early." He said.

"Yea, thanks Gianni." Nik said sighing.

"Friends, huh Nikky?" he said shaking his head as he left out the room.

"Are you kidding me? Now they are going to think something is going on." Dominique said not even coming out from the covers.

"Baby, this is my family, they already think something is going on between us."

"Well this is confirming it." She said trying to pull the covers around her.

"Well if you want, we can always just finish what we started and let them know for sure something is going on?" her head peeked out from under the covers with a scowling look, "Or not." He shrugged.

"I'm going to take a shower." She whined pulling all the covers with her as she treaded to the bathroom and Nik could do nothing but smile watching leave.

After they both showered and dressed, they went and joined everyone for breakfast. Gianni must have kept his mouth shut because there weren't any strange glances or anything at the two of them while they were at eating. Good, Dominique thought to herself, she didn't want his mom to think something that wasn't. Well, she wasn't exactly sure what wasn't anymore. Every time she thinks about just feeling his lips, something escalates and then a little something turns into something big. She thought if they would just kiss a little that she would get it out of her system, but her body was always soon begging for more and to take it a bit further. She knew that but she always tried to hide it and deny it. Nik couldn't be that charming, it had to be something else. 

She thought long and hard over what it could possibly be even went through most of the day with the ladies scrutinizing about it. She didn't snap out of it until she heard her name a couple of times. 

"Huh? I'm sorry." She quickly said noticing Fiorenza was right in front of her.

"Are you alright?" she asked looking generally concerned.

"I'm sorry, yea I'm alright just thinking about some work stuff." She quickly said.

"Are you sure you are not thinking about our hunky brother?" Ama hinted.

"No, why? What do you know?" Dominique panicked and they both laughed. 

"Nothing dear, we were just teasing. Are you sure you are alright?" Ama said walking over to her.

"Yea, I'm fine. I'm sorry I kind of space out sometimes when I'm really thinking about something."

"Well, don't let your mind get too cloudy. We still need you for tonight." Mika said.

"I know. Now where is this dress that is so me?" she smiled and Ama disappeared with a sly smile on her face. 

"So, can I ask you something about my brother?" Fiorenza asked.

"Go ahead."

"How do you feel about him? I mean, do you see yourself being with him?"

"Oh wow, wasn't expecting that. Well, I like Nik, he is really sweet and charming."

"I mean a little more than that. Don't give me the normal answers." She laughed and Dominique couldn't help but laugh too.

"Oh, I mean he can be a little arrogant and cocky."

"Well, that is a trait for the men in our family." Fiorenza added.

"Yes it is." Mika agreed.

"But there are times I feel like there is something extra there that no one really see but me. The part beyond the smooth talker and suave guy; I get to see the real Nik. The only part I don't know is how do I tell the difference between Nik and the bullshit?" 

"It's not that hard. I've seen my brother in action. Most of the women he talks to and pursue, he doesn't really tell them anything about him or the family. He would much rather hear about them. It makes it easy for them not to leave a mark on him."

"But in the end, it's up to you to decide which is which." Mika said, "I know with Rafaela, I had to distinguish that myself. Mind you he wasn't as smooth as Nik or demanding as Gianni, but he was very sweet under that. You just sometimes have to look past it and see the real guy."

"And with my brother you can find that out if you search hard enough. Just like my dad said, he found out that mom was the right one after one dance, it was pretty much the same for all of us." Ama said coming back with something red in her hand, "You will meet mine tonight. His name is Alfred, he's an artist and very brilliant." 

She smiled, "This is for you."

She held it out for Dominique, "You don't even know what size I wear." 

"Well, let's just say I have an eye for it." She smiled and Dominique took the dress heading to the dressing room, "And how about we stop by my beauty salon and if you want I can do something to your hair?" 

"Oh sure, if you want to try and tame it, I'll let you." Dominique shrugged.

As she took off her clothes, Dominique heard Ada's voice joining them. She went to a little jewelry store to get something for Alfonso and from the excitement in her voice, he was going to love it. Dominique smiled to herself as she shimmed into the dress letting it flow down to her knees. The dress zipped up the side and Dominique took a long look in the mirror. It took her awhile to know that it was actually her in the dress. It hugged her perfectly showing a hint of cleavage with the scoop neck. 

"Come on Dominique, let's see it." She heard Ama on the other side.

Dominique took a deep breath and opened the door. She looked between the women and saw smiles spread over their faces. Okay, so she didn't look hideous, she thought from the look on their faces. 

"So, you like it?" she finally said a little uneasy about their prolong silence.

"Good job Amadora; that is completely her." Ada said nodding, "Cara, you look so beautiful."

"Thank you, so I don't look completely huge in it."

"Of course not. I think you should get it and wear it tonight."

Dominique had the feeling that arguing with these four women would be a lost cause. She went ahead and bought the dress without any argument and went to Ama's salon. As Ama started working on Dominique's hair, the women started talking more. Normally, she would be nervous and worried about being left alone with people she didn't really know, but she felt completely at ease and like herself with them. 

They finished out the whole day together and got everything together for tonight. She didn't bother Nik at all, thinking that he was with his father and brothers. That night she got ready at Ama's house with Fiorenza and Mika. Ada was going to make an entrance with Alfonso. As she put on the dress again, she looked over at how the whole outfit was coming together. She had picked up a pair of black stilettos that had little rhinestones that wrapped around her ankle. Ama had straightened her hair and cut enough to leave it just at the bottom of her shoulder blade. She pulled it up in a bun with a couple of tendrils hanging around her face. Yea, she definitely had to get a picture of this for her friends, she thought with a smile. 

"Well, I should say you look exceptionally sexy tonight. I think my brother would love it when he sees it." Fiorenza said as Dominique carefully sat down the cake.

"Oh well, I do like the dress. I probably won't have another occasion to wear this."

"Oh sure you will. Tell Nik to take you out one night." She smiled.

Dominique just laughed, "Maybe."

"Well, you can tell him that now, because here they come with the food." She said glancing towards the front.

Even thought he was surrounded by his brothers her eyes zeroed in on him swaggering in. He was in an all black suit with a red button down shirt. His eyes were covered by dark red tinted sunglasses. All the women's heads were turning once they saw them, but Nik came to a screeching halt once he saw Dominique. She took a deep breath and hated those glasses. She couldn't gauge his reaction and that made her stomach cringe. Her breath caught in her throat and she felt her palm sweating. Do something, she sighed. He finally moved his feet closing the gap between them two. 

"I was thinking something was wrong with you." She smiled as he sat down some of the bags. 

"I'm sorry; I got blinded by you for a second." He said standing to full height staring down at Dominique.

"Whatever Nik, you are so full of it." She said shaking her head, but Nik really couldn't take his eyes off her. 

The way the dress formed against her body almost like it was second skin and it made his imagination run wild with what she had on under her tight dress. He was ready to skip out on this party and go back to the pool house to finish what started this morning, but he knew he couldn't successfully do that and not have his family question their relationship again. He went through that earlier with his father and his brothers. How could he give them an answer when there were times that he wasn't sure himself? He knew they were friends, but something else was brewing between them and in a way it scared him. For now, he was pushing those thoughts out of head to focus on her bending over again and again to help out his sister. His body shivered as he went to divert his attention to other matters.

"Your girl is looking mighty nice tonight, Nikky." Gianni said standing next to him.

"I haven't really notice." He said trying to play it cool.

"Don't try to fool me; you forget who saw you two this morning? I can't say that I blame you. I figured you would have hit that already."

"Do you have to be so crude all the time?" Nik said shaking his head.

Gianni's head snapped to Nik, "Oh you really like her?" 

Nik slowly turned his head to see his brother's smiling face, "I told you she is a friend and that's it."

Nik didn't expect Gianni laughter, "Yea little Nikky, tell that to someone that didn't teach you the techniques." Gianni said turning towards the entrance as some of their parent's friends came in. 

The party was going really well so far and it made Nik smile to see his parents having so much fun and being so loving. Every now and then he glanced over at Dominique who was doing her thing socializing with some of the people and family members. He was actually getting sick of people coming up to him and saying that she was a good girl. He already knew that, but he didn't need to hear that from everyone.

He watched some of the older men dance with her and he couldn't help but stare at the smile on her face. This was the most he ever seen her smile like that and feel at ease. It made him also wonder, what happened in her life that made her try to be such a hard ass. 

"My bambino, you should dance with your girl." His mother said coming around him.

"Mom, she is having fun dancing with Uncle Frederico." Nik countered.

"I know but you know how your uncle is around young women. Go take her away." She smiled, nudging him lightly.

"Don't try to recreate the moment you and dad had. We are just friends." Nik reiterated.

"Well as a friend go and dance with the girl." His dad said slapping his shoulder. 

Nik brushed himself off and headed to her. Uncle Frederico was probably telling Dominique one of those lame jokes that he always tells everyone and she was honestly laughing at him. 

"Excuse me Uncle, you mind if I take lovely lady off your hands." Nik said taking off his sunglasses.

"Aw, always had to be a spoiled sport, just like your daddy." He grimaced, "Save another dance for me sweetheart." He directed to her.

"Okay." She laughed as he left them alone, "Well you have a very charming family." She finally said.

"Yea, I think I will keep them too. So, you want to dance with me?"

"I guess since you took away my dancing partner."

As he wrapped his arms around her waist, a familiar song started blasting through the speakers. Overjoyed, that's the same song his dad use to play every Saturday when he helped him in the garage as a kid. Nik held Dominique tight as she wrapped her arms around his neck, staring deep into him. He noticed that he eyes slightly sparkle looking at him. Her tongue slowly traveled across her lips as she tightens her hold. God, she felt so good pressed against him. He could feel his cock stirring as he held on to her waist. Dominique's hand slowly traveled down his neck to his shoulder. She rubbed his shoulder with her lips parted. She tuned out the entire outside noise and the words to the song and just moved against him. What she wouldn't give to kiss him right now? She didn't care who was around just feel that connect one more time. She quickly blinked the feeling away when she heard the applause of others. They both came crashing down as everyone smiled at the DJ. Nik adjusted his jackets trying to straighten his head out. He looked over at Dominique as she looked everywhere but him. He was about to open her mouth when Ama stepped in between them, "Dominique, you mind if I steal my brother away for picture?"

"Um, sure. I think I am going outside for a breather." She said without waiting for a confirmation. 

Nik watched her intently as they all poised around and took a picture. She walked over to the door, ready to leave. She didn't need to be outside by herself. He quickly took the picture and excuse himself to follow her outside. He pushed past everyone determined to check on her and see what was going through her mind. 

He finally made it outside and found her leaning against the building, the phone attached to her ear. She didn't even look his way as she continued talking to someone. When he heard her say, 'I don't know, I'm just confused' that's when he made his way to her. When her eyes flicked open, she saw him standing there with his half cocky smile.

"You know you shouldn't be out here alone." He said in a husky whisper and took the phone away from her ear.

He closed the phone, not taking his eyes off her. He closed the gap between them and leaned down towards her. Dominique closed her eyes, hoping to feel his lips against hers. Yes, she needed it. She could feel his breath against her full lips, knowing that he was close. 

"How about we leave?" he whispered and her eyes flickered open again staring at him so close.

His green eyes were darken as his eyes diverted from hers every once in awhile to settle on the top of her breast. All she could do while looking at those sultry eyes was nod her head in response. He grabbed her hand and led her to his truck her breath stuck in her throat the entire walk there. He quickly helped her in the truck and got in on his side driving away. Dominique felt like she was forgetting how to breathe at this point. She knew what was coming if they would be left alone and it scared her but at the same time excited her greatly. Yea she attempted at one point to seduce him with her thinking that sex was just sex, but now it's different. When they were dancing she realized she was starting to feel things she shouldn't towards him and she didn't know what to do about these feelings. She was so engrossed in her own thoughts; she didn't realize that the truck stopped. She looked up and saw that they were at the house. She was about to open her mouth and say something but she felt him grab the back of her neck and pulled her towards him pushing his lips against hers. She sighed against his lips, feeling warmth spread quickly through her body almost scorching Nik. He angled her head to probe deeper in her mouth so she could feel every inch of his long tongue. He tasted so good, she thought to herself as she laid her hand on his chest and she swore she could feel his heart pounding against his chest. 

Nik never had a woman effect him the way Dominique has. He wanted her like he wanted his next breath and he was intent on not stopping until he had her writhing under him. He kissed her again before laying his forehead against hers trying to catch his breath. 

After a brief moment, he broke away from her and got out of the truck. She took a breather but followed him to the pool house. She stood by the door as he talked on the phone to Gianni telling him something about Dominique wasn't feeling too well and that they left. 

Dominique stood behind him, running his hands softly up his arms feeling his biceps flex under her touch. She reached around in front of him and started unbuttoning his jacket. 

After unbuttoning his jacket, she went for his shirt and he felt the tips of her finger tips licking his burning flesh. He was still on the phone with Gianni half paying attention to what he was saying and focusing on Dominique. She felt bold as his body slightly tremble under her touch and licked her lips. Her hands slowly traveled down to the top of his pants and his breath quickened. She pulled the zipper to his pants down and unbuttoned them. She had one hand linger around his crotch, feeling the tent forming. Oh my, she thought with a smile. 

"Yea, I know what they are going to say, but you know she wasn't feeling well." Nik breathed and Dominique smiled to herself. 

She backed away from him, taking the pins out of her hair and walked around him, unzipping her dress as she headed to the bedroom. She looked back at him with a coy smile holding the dress up to her before she disappeared in the room.

"Gianni, I'll call you back." Nik quickly said, closing his phone, and throwing it on the couch. 

She waited until he walked into the bedroom and peeled the dress down her body. He watched her curvy frame slowly appearing in front of him inch by inch. He took the jacket and shirt off as he closed the space between them, pressing his lips firmly to hers. He was officially done with the teasing. She moaned into his mouth, nibbling on his bottom lip as he maneuvered over to the bed. She lightly pushed him down and stood between his legs. She took a deep breath feeling that nagging voice in the back of her head wondering if he liked what she was doing. She silenced the voice by reaching behind her to unsnap her bra. He reached up to pull the infernal contraption away from her body revealing her gorgeous caramel globes to him. His mouth watered at the site of her puckered nipples, begging for his attention. He pulled her closer to him and his tongue raked across her nipple, tasting her. She grabbed on to his shoulders as he did it again, this time letting his free hand pinch the other nipple. She arched her back to his touch craving more. She pressed her thighs together, feeling the moisture in her thong and he could smell her. It was a sweet smell like a chocolate cake fresh out the oven. 




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 04



Dominique shut her eyes as she felt his hot mouth move to her other nipple, giving it the same attention. Her nails dug into his shoulders but he didn't feel the pain, just ready to give Dominique the pleasure and release they both deserved. She felt his one hand against the front of her thong as he let one finger trace over her V, coaxing her to open her legs wider. Her breath quickened but she complied with his request and as she prepared herself for full contact of his fingers. 

"You are so wet." He whispered as she felt his fingers stroking her and her nails dug deeper into his shoulder that she was sure she was going to draw blood.

He didn't seem to mind, Nik was too engrossed with Dominique. He felt himself get harder staring with her head thrown back and her mouth parted as the room filled with her little mewling sounds. Her knees buckle a bit as she felt his fingers push inside her moist opening. She bit down on her bottom lip as he pumped his fingers inside of her feeling how tight she was just around those two fingers. 

"Nik." She moaned feeling her knees give out. 

He pulled her over to him and had her straddle his lap, "I got you babe." 

He started sucking one of his fingers that were inside of her and she took the other finger in her mouth tasting herself along with him. Nik's eyebrow raised as a sly smile appeared on his face. He lay back down on the bed with Dominique, kissing her full magnetic lips again. Much to Dominique's surprise he kept pulling her up till their lips parted. Once she realized what he was doing, she moved the rest of the way till she was straddling his face. Nik took a deep inhale as he moved her thong to the side. His thick tongue slicked her lips making her gasp out loud. He held her firmly against his mouth as he dove into her, his green eyes staring back into hers holding so much promise. Dominique couldn't believe what he was doing, she never had someone do oral to her and her she was sitting on his face as his tongue worked wonders inside of her. She found her hips moving against his tongue as he probed deeper inside her.

"Oh right there, Nik." She moaned arching her back.

He didn't want her to get use to him being there just yet. He moved to flicking his tongue at her harden nub and she almost leaped off him feeling the light suction he gave. Her body felt like it was all over the place, like how would scribble all over the paper when she was a kid. She ran her fingers through her hair as she rode his tongue harder losing herself in the pleasure his tongue was creating. He loosened his grip on her thighs and maneuvered one of his fingers inside of her while still sucking on her clit. Dominique's eyes widen as she looked down at his smiling eyes feeling that she was on the brink. She realized she didn't want to cum like this first. She needed Nik inside of her.

She maneuvered from his sensual tongue slowly sliding down his tone body. She moved to the floor and pushed Nik's pants down his thighs. Her eyes immediately diverted to his cock standing out long and hard as steel. She was in awed for a moment; because she never dealt with anyone so huge, but she would of course never tell him that. She wrapped her small hands around it and heard him take in a sudden breath as she pumped her hand up and down his length. Her mouth started to water as she felt herself pulsing in need. 

"Dominique, get up here." Nik said not hiding the urgency in his voice. 

She smiled as she climbed back into bed and lay down next to him. Nik quickly moved on top of her and reached for a condom. At least he plays it safe, she thought with a smile as she watched him slowly roll it on his cock. She licked her sudden dry mouth and looked back up at him as he positioned himself in between her legs. She pulled him down by his face, to feel his lips again. She tasted so good; Nik thought to himself and new that she was going to feel even better. He slowly eased himself into and felt her bite down on his bottom lip. Normally Nik wasn't big on pain, but with Dominique, it was different. He opened his eyes and saw her wide eyes staring back at him as he pushed more inside of her. She clamped down on him inch by inch that he had to get under control before he had a too soon accident. 

The moment he was under control, he moved his hips slowly pumping inside of her tightness. Dominique wrapped her legs around him; pushing him deeper as she felt him stretch her beyond what she was use to. Her mouth fell open but no sound was coming out. Yet he could see the pleasure etched on her face. 

"Oh damn Dominique, I knew you would feel this good." He whispered and that's when he heard her throaty moan fill the room.

She gritted her teeth together as she held on to him relentlessly pumping his hips inside of her. She never prepared herself for this intensity, this raw pleasure that was building in her gut and Nik needed to be in deeper. He positioned her legs in the crook of his arms and pistoned his hips inside of her. Dominique couldn't do anything but take it.

"Oh fuck Nik. Oh yes that feels good." She finally said.

"You like me being inside of you, huh?" she moaned in his response, "I want you to take it all."

"Oh yes give it to me, Nik!" she shouted as she felt her toes curling.

He wanted it to last a little longer but he could feel his balls tightening and knew that he was cumming soon. This was something that didn't happen very often with him. He kept his eyes glued to Dominique's as she tugged on his hair. Damn she was a wild one, he thought as he felt her body began to shake.

Dominique screamed out feeling her whole body convulse. Nik felt her clamp down on him tighter and couldn't last any longer. He let out an animalistic growl as he came. He stayed still for a moment as their bodies shutter. 

After what felt like forever, Nik finally pulled away from her and lied down next to her. Dominique's eyes were still closed and the only noise in the room was their heavy breathing. She turned to him and wrapped her arms around him snuggling against his chest. Nik smiled to himself as he returned the embrace and for some reason he felt like his heart was beating in double time. Okay, he has had plenty of after sex reactions that he was use to but that wasn't one of them.

"So is that what I have been missing?" she finally whispered and Nik couldn't help but chuckle.

"Something like that. Damn Dominique, I didn't know you had it in you like that."

"I guess I can be full of surprises, but can I ask you a question?"

"Anything baby."

She looked up at him with this amazing brightness to her face and a big smile, "Can we do it again?"



Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 05



Dominique's body has never felt so heavy and satiated until now. She didn't want to move and was just content to lie in bed. She kept her eyes closed and pulled her body closer to the heat emitting from Nik. She felt his hold tighten around her and she smiled to herself letting the scent of his musk fill her nose. "You know it is past nine right?" she heard him mumble.

"I didn't really notice." She replied lazily.

For the first time, she really didn't. Normally Dominique would flip out about being in bed so late, but she was starting to see some benefits to it. Guess it would help to have someone like Nik who made her cum more times than she could ever imagine.  

"I think we need too. I don't want anyone to walk in on us, again." He reminded.

"We weren't doing anything the last time though, but I guess this time it would look a little suspicious, huh?" she felt his head nod on top of hers, "So, what should we do?" 

"Well, I am all up for staying in bed for a little bit longer, but we do need to get up. I know my mom would be concerned about you since I said you were sick," Dominique sighed, "but I'm going to need you to move too." She could hear the slight chuckle in his voice and she reluctantly pulled away from him but made sure not to let him see the look on her face. 

She tried to maneuver out of bed but he quickly pulled her back against him, pressing his lips firmly to hers without hesitation. She molded against him, feeling his tongue move deeper into her mouth. He grabbed a hold of her hair tugging it back to explore her mouth further. The little moans that escaped her mouth made his rod stiffen. Damn, this girl was such a turn on, he thought as he pulled her to straddle him. 

"Nik, your mother is going to worry about us." She whispered in between kisses and he groaned in response, "We should get up."

"I know." He replied still kissing her soft lips. Dominique felt the same way, she didn't want to stop. It was almost like she was a little insatiable when it came to him. She finally pulled herself away being the bigger person and moved off of him. Nik watched as she grabbed her robe and securely tied it. She looked so sexy all ruffled like that. 

"You should get up and take a shower too." She reminded him with a leering smile as she headed to the bathroom. Oh he planned on it; he thought throwing the blankets off of him and following right behind her.

Later that day, Dominique was in the kitchen helping the women finish up everything for the herd of policemen that were coming for the retirement party. Dominique was starting to learn more and more about cooking being in the kitchen with Ada and his sisters. Her mind did on occasion flutter to Nik, especially since he was just outside in the front, helping his brothers with the BBQ. 

"Dominique, are you feeling any better honey?" Ada asked and Dominique's head immediately perked up.

"Oh, I'm feeling great Ada, thank you." Dominique smiled.

"I was worried about you since you left so early."

"Oh, yes ma'am. I wasn't feeling too well."

"But you are all better now?" and Dominique just nodded and to her shock Fiorenza, Amadora, and Mika giggled.

"What?" Dominique smiled.

"Nothing, sweet heart. I was just worried about you."

"Yea especially since Nik didn't come back to the party." Fiorenza said with a hidden smile.

Oh she knew this tactic so well; Jade and Katrina does this all the time. Dominique just meekly smiled and shrugged, "He just was watching over me."

"Really?" Amadora smiled.

"Don't pay attention to my daughters. There are some things that deserve to be kept secret. I wish my two daughters knew that as well."

"Hey now mom, we only tell because we want your advice and we don't tell you about everything." Fiorenza defended.

"You're right baby. It's just so refreshing to see my children finding their happiness."

"Um, I hope Nik does find his." Dominique quickly said.

"I believe he could have." Ada said quickly eyeing her and Dominique shook her head vigorously.

"Oh no, I don't think it will be me. Nik and I are just good friends, besides I don't think we see each other like that. I'm pretty sure he wants someone a little more glamorous."

"Well honey after what we have seen last night, you can look pretty glamorous yourself." Amadora said and the girls nodded.

"No, I'm just plain me that happens to dress up every once in awhile." Dominique shrugged.

"Yea, I think you are a little more than just plain. Nik told me how close you are to your friends and some of the things you have done for them and him as well. I would think anybody would be happy to have you in their family."

"Well, that's almost true." Dominique shrugged. Ada looked up at Dominique and saw how her head hung as she chopped the celery. She stood next to her trying to decipher the hidden sadness in her voice. 

"Are you alright sweetie?" she whispered to her.

"I'm okay ma'am." Dominique said feigning a smile.

"Okay, you seem kind of down and I just wanted you to know that if you ever feel like talking to me, you can."

"Oh you don't have to do that ma'am. I'm okay, really I am." Dominique smiled nervously trying her best to hold up a straight face, but the look of concern on Ada's face was really wearing her down; it was a look of motherly concern. 

"Dominique, I know we just met but I feel a strong connection to you and I want you to think of me as someone you can turn to, in your own time. I know you have your own family and mother, but I'm here anytime you need me." She said placing her hand lightly on her arm.

Dominique stopped chopping and stood there frozen at Ada's words. She's right; they just met each other and she is acting more motherly to her then her own mother. Dominique didn't get it; how could this stranger make her feel warm when every time she reached out to her mother, it was a cold slap. Even Nik's father has been great to her. Her hands started to shake so she quickly put the knife down without looking up. The silence in the room was deafening as she tried to keep her emotions in check, but she just couldn't get it and she wanted to so bad. 

"Thank you, um, I have to go." Dominique quickly said and walked out the back door without any explanations, heading to the pool house.

Nik was outside with his father and brothers helping. He was pretty much in and out the conversation though; his mind went back to Dominique and their explosive night and morning. In fact, he couldn't wait till they were alone, which this was starting to get very strange for him. He was use to getting his fill and moving on to the next, but with Dominique, he wanted more of it. He just shook his head as he brought the beer bottle to his lips.

"Nik!" he heard his mother shout, "Nikola!" she shouted again and saw her marching towards him with a look of concern on her face.

"What's wrong?" Nik said immediately setting the bottle down.

"You need to check on Dominique." The minute she said her name, his heart started beating double time.

"Why? What happened?"

"She and mom were just talking and then she rushed out the back door. Did you invite a crazy girl to the house, because I was starting to like her?" Amadora commented.

"Amadora!" Ada immediately said, silencing her, "Nik, all I told her was that if she needs someone to talk to that I was always here." Now that doesn't sound like her, Nik thought.

"What else did you say?"

"Well I also told her that I know that she has her own mother but that she can come to me." That's when it came crashing into him.

"She's kind of iffy about families, but I'll go check on her." Nik said rushing past every one as he headed to the backyard.

He was about to head to the pool house when he saw her sitting in the grass in front of the lake. He let out that breath he didn't know he was holding and carefully treaded his way to her. He sat down next to her and saw her eyes were a puffy and red. She's been crying. He wrapped his arm around her shoulder and pulled her to him. 

"Why did you bring me here?" she asked softly.

"I told you, to keep me company and I wanted you here."

"You bring me around your perfect loving family?"

"Believe me, there is nothing perfect about them. I mean think about it, I'm the best looking one." He smiled trying to lighten the mood.

"I'm serious Nik. Your mother and father have been more than great and they are so loving. You don't know how lucky you are to have that."

"Tell me about it Dominique. What's been going on?"

She took a deep breath before continuing, "My mom was 18 when she got married. Her family arranged it with their friend's son who was moving to the states for work and they were wealthy. They have been here for five years and she had two sons. Her husband was working so much and left her with the children so one day she met this guy at a restaurant. He sweet talked her, gave her the attention she wanted, and she started having an affair with him. It wasn't long before she fell in love and he convinced her to leave her husband for him when she told him she was pregnant. She told her husband everything and that she was leaving. When she was ready to leave, he never showed up and left town without her."

"Did something happen to him? Do you know who he is?"

"His name is Michael Sharpe and no, it was pretty much he wanted to get his socks off and didn't want to take care of a kid. She went begging to her husband to take her back and he did. Then I came along. Everyone accepted me, even her husband, but for some reason my mom couldn't. I tried so hard to please her, to make her love me but she just ignored me."

"So, your aunt Crystal is your dad's sister?" she nodded into his chest.

"She saw me and knew I was her brother's child. She tried to convince him to help take care of me. I lived with her and she raised me with the help of my mom and her husband so that my brothers and I were close. She hardly looks at me and she doesn't say anything to me. I just don't get it. How can people that just met me like your mom and dad, show me more love than my own mother and father? He let his sister raise me for goodness sakes and I haven't heard anything from him!" Nik shook his head; he couldn't believe any man would give up on his kid.

"Do you know where he is?"

"I do, even tried to call him once, but he kept saying he doesn't remember my mom. I know he got married and has kids, so I have other brothers and sisters I don't know. It just sucks that I feel like I'm a burden to one parent and they both don't want me." She ended with choking back a sob which made Nik tighten his hold around her.

"That's not true. I mean, I don't know your dad or your mom, but you do have people that love and care for you. I mean look at your two best friends, your aunt Crystal, and now apparently my mom and dad."

"I know and I do feel bless for them, but it still bothers me why my mom the woman who gave birth to me can't bear to talk to me or that my dad doesn't want anything to do with me."

"Have you thought about visiting him?"

"Yea, he's not far from here and apparently he owns his own restaurant. Every time I get the urge to go, I back down. I know Katrina and Jade had said that they will go with me but with my schedule, I can't do it."

"What do you mean not far from here?" Nik asked.

"He stays in Bridge Gate. It doesn't matter anyway Nik. I'm just so confused by them and I study everything I could to get some sort of reason of why they did what they did."

"Well I can answer for only your father, it's because he is selfish." Dominique sharply moved her head towards him staring at him with eyes wide, "I mean he wanted to lay down with your mom and not use a condom and then figures out that he had a baby on the way. He puts the responsibilities on his sister, while he goes and lives his life. What kind of man is that? If that's how he is going to treat you, then maybe you are better off not knowing him." She shook her head and smiled briefly.

"You know I think my friends been want to tell me that but didn't want to hurt my feelings. It's refreshing to hear that from you actually."

He hooked his chin under hers, staring deep into her soulful eyes, "I'm going to be real with you baby, no matter what." She instantly smiled, running her finger tips on his forearm. 

"I appreciate that Nik. Jason use to tell me that I should give it some time, but I don't know how long I can wait."

"And that's true but you have waited long enough. I believe that you should confront them about this."

"In time I will." She said lifting up her chin.

He stared down at her and her plump lips thinking how much he craved her lips. This was getting a little too intimate for his liking and hers too. Nik pulled away from her magnetic eyes and stared straight into the lake. Dominique followed his gaze, clearing her throat. She doesn't know how things with Nik have escalated so quickly. Yes, she had sex with him and enjoyed it very, very much, but there was something bubbling inside her. She was losing sight of her original plan being around him so much. She decided to stay quiet and watch the lake with him.

After almost an hour, Alfonso's friends showed up for the BBQ. Dominique went to Ada and assured her that she was okay. Dominique's heart leaped when she saw her breathe a sigh of relief and then hug her. Nik showed Dominique around to some of the men. They all looked at Nik in awed replaying stories of how Alfonso would bring the kids to the station. Dominique just stood there listening and laughing. They looked so jovial; this was the first time in awhile that Dominique had the chance to let go and not have to over think. She was also happy that she shared everything about her parents with Nik; who was surprisingly supportive. Even though he may not understand, the way he looked at her when she told him the story eased her mind and body. All in all she had a great time with everyone. 

Later that night, Dominique reluctantly packed her bags. Nik told everyone that they were leaving the first thing in the morning and she was a little disappointed. She got all of his sister's numbers and promised to keep in touch with them. Amadora even hinted that she hope to see more of her. She was packing the rest of her bags when Nik came in the pool house after talking to his dad. Towards the end of the night he and his dad have been talking for awhile privately, but she figured that it could be something about his brothers. 

Nik came in breathing a sigh of relief surprised to see that Dominique had packed his stuff too. She smiled up at him wanting to kiss him senseless. So she figured what the hell. She walked up to him, threw her arms around his neck, and pressed her lips to his. Nik smiled against her lips, kissing her back. He tightened his hold around her, bringing her closer to him. He felt his cock stirring in his pants thinking it has been too long since he has been inside of her. 

"Don't you think you need to pack?" she whispered.

"I was hoping you would have taken care of that for me."

"Oh, I see someone is being lazy. I think you can handle that." He was about to kiss her again when she heard her phone ring. 

She opted to ignore it but reconsider thinking it could be Katrina or Jade. She picked it up without looking at who it is. 

"Hello." She said with a smile still staring at Nik.

"Hey Dominique, I hope it's not too late." 

She swallowed hard, pulling away from Nik, "Jason, no it's not too late." 

Nik dropped his arms from around her and moved around her. He swore this guy always had a way to ruin a perfectly good moment. 

"I was wondering about you. I haven't heard from you since you left."

"Oh, I'm okay. I'm still here with Nik and his family. We are actually having a very good time."

"Oh," he paused, "that's nice. When will you be coming back?" 

"I think we are heading back tomorrow."

"Okay, well I know Candi and I wanted to talk to you about some things. She found some dresses and she wanted to get your opinion on them."

"Oh, well I can't wait to see them. How are you doing?"

"I'm good." He cut himself off, "So you are meeting the family? That's pretty big."

"Everyone has been great. How has everything been there?" she asked taking a glance back at Nik and saw him in the bedroom. 

"It's been the same here. I have gotten some work done and helped Candi as much as I can stomach. You know she is terribly missing you since all this wedding stuff is like Greek to me. I just told her whatever she likes, I love it." Dominique smiled lightly as she heard him chuckle, "I was wondering if we can get together for dinner, just me and you like normal."

"Um, let me get back to you Jason okay?" She didn't wait for a confirmation as she shut the phone close. 

Was he really inviting her to dinner? Alone? Apparently Jason is getting the idea that this thing between her and Nik is real. For some reason that didn't bring the joy she thought it would have brought, in fact she felt guilty. She went into the bedroom and saw him finishing up the packing. She saw the tension in his body and wondered if he caught some of the conversation. 

"So what did lawyer boy have to say?" Nik said not even looking up at her.

"He wondered if everything was alright and that Candi needs my help with the wedding stuff." She sat on the end of the bed, "Are you alright?" she asked.

"I'm fine, just getting ready for the drive tomorrow." 

"Nik, I really appreciate you bringing me here. Your sisters are so crazy and I know it makes you feel good to hear about your brother getting out." He let out a big sigh, "You reaching for conversation because you must think I am mad, but I appreciate what you said about my family."

"I am not reaching for conversation. I'm telling you the truth."

"I know you are, but for you to say it like that let's me know that you think I am upset. You aren't the only one who knows a little psychology." He smiled heading to the bathroom.

"Ok Nik, lets talk about why are you upset."

"Actually I'm not. I was thinking about other stuff and we really should get some sleep before we head out." He walked past her and Dominique pouted.

She really didn't want to sleep, at least not now. They still had some business to take care of as far as she is concerned. She decided to turn on the television to drown out the silence. She flipped through the channels until she landed on her all time favorite movie. Nik happened to look up at where she stopped and smiled to himself.

"Are you looking at a scary movie before you go to bed?" he said.

"What? Don't tell me that you are scared of Freddy Kruger?" he laughed out loud.

"Are you kidding me? I love Nightmare on Elm Street."

"Shut up!" she smiled turning to face him, "This is my favorite series."

"Oh really? When my mom let Gianni watch us over night, we would watch all the series and my sisters hated it. My mom didn't like us watching scary movies like that, but I love it."

She started laughing, "You know I actually had my Aunt Crystal get me the sweater and the hat and one year I went as him for Halloween. I remembered I scared Jason so bad that year climbing into his room. Oh he hates scary movies." Nik laughed with her loving how her face lit up.

"Look at you, Miss Organize has a dark side." He said sitting next to her.

"I guess. I don't know for some reason I would always look at Nightmare on Elm Street with my favorite ice cream, chocolate chip cookie dough. Afterwards, I would make me feel better after a rough day."

"Do you have all of them?"

"No, I haven't even started getting them yet. I just hope to catch them on tv."

"Which one is your favorite?" he said lying back.

"I like part three, my all time favorite, besides the first one. I just love that it's prime time bitch line." She laughed, "I hated the second one though."




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 05



"Oh I totally agree; that kid got on my nerves with all his whining and screaming."

"Not only that, Freddy in love. What kind of crap is that?" she shrugged as she snuggled next to him. 

"What were some of your other favorite scary movies?" Nik asked.

"Well, I do like the Friday the 13ths too, only because they did make me laugh. I love seeing the different ways those kids would get caught by Jason."

"I don't know, my second one would be Michael Myers for me. I love his style; just did it and kept on going, plus you can tell he had a game plan with his kills." Nik wrapped his arm around her. 

She looked up at him and found him staring back at him, "Who would ever thought that we would find a connection with scary movies?" she chuckled.

"It's the all time guilty pleasure, well that and porn. Are you into that?" he leered and she couldn't help but start laughing. 

"I have seen my fair share if that's what you are trying to ask in a not so subtle way." She reminded.

"Oh, now that I would have never pictured for you babe; I figured you would turn your head and think it's disgusting."

"I think it's perfectly healthy to indulge in it a little bit. I don't know what you thought about me before Nik but I'm not a complete prude." She pouted.

He paused staring at her pouty lips as his body tighten ready to feel her again, "No, you're not. Last night was very evident of that." He said rolling over on top of her and nearly cringes when she nibbled on her bottom lip. 

"So, now you think I have a wild side?" She whispered wrapping her arms around his neck.

"Oh babe, I know you have one." He ended the conversation by pressing his lips to hers in a searing kiss. 

She accepted the full weight of his lips, pushing her own tongue into his mouth to duel hers. Her body felt like an electric current was surging through her making her pull him closer to her. She just couldn't get enough of him when he kissed her. It was almost like the outside disappears and there is nothing for her to focus on but him and her needs. She nibbled down on his bottom lip and heard him lightly growl into the kiss. 

"I want you to do something for me again." He whispered.

"What's that?" she cautiously asked. 

"I want you to strip for me." 

"I already did that for you." She reminded.

"No baby, I want you to strip all the way for me." He said and she pushed her head back into the pillow. 

"Well, um, I believe I can do that." She said a little nervous. 

"Hey now, it's just me here. It's not like you haven't done this before." He smiled and she nodded. "I realize that, but you want me to go all the way." She gulped as he moved off of her. 

She felt like she was back in school giving a big speech in front of everyone as she stood at the head of the bed. Nik turned off the TV and sat up in the bed. Dominique stared around the room thinking that she should have some music with this. She reached the bottom of her tank top and pulled it up above her head. Nik's mouth watered at the sight of her full breast encased in her bra. She hooked her thumbs in her skirt and slowly pulled it down her legs. Dominique didn't have the tall, long legs but her legs were very shapely and tone. She still reminded him of those old pinup girls, very voluptuous. 

"Don't forget the hair." He reminded and she nodded.

Nik's breath caught in his throat as she felt moved in slow motion. She unhooked her bra, letting the garment fall to the ground. Her pert nipples made his mouth water as if beckoning him like a moth to a flame. She reached up to her hair and took out the pin, shaking it out. Her hair flowed in lose curls framing her face. She reminded him of the first night he told her to undress for him and she looked like so fierce and exotic, like a lion. His cock was at full strength in his pants and it pulsed with need for her. She shimmed out of her panties leaving them on the floor. Yes she was truly a work of art, he thought with a smile.

"Come here." He said and she bit down on her bottom lip noting the lust in his eyes.

She felt so empowered by the way he looked at her that she took the liberty of crawling up his body slowly enjoying the look in his eyes. She made short work of the distance and straddled him, plopping herself on his lap. She went to the buttons of his shirt and unbuttoned them keeping her eyes locked on his. Her breath came in short pants as she revealed his hot olive toned skin. He helped her push the shirt of him, running her hands down his sculpted chest. He couldn't hold back anymore, he brought her head down and slanted his lips against hers. 

He grabbed a hold of her hips pulling her firmly against him. She got so lost in the sensation that her body heighten with pleasure. She grabbed a hold of his face, caressing his tongue with hers. She could smell her arousal in the air and knew that it hit his nose when he flipped them over so that she was lying on her back. He made quick work of his pants and boxers tossing them to the floor. He kissed all over her neck and her smell invaded his nose making him dizzy with need. He couldn't wait any longer, he was throbbing. He kicked his pants and shoes off quickly as she caught glimpse of him. He took a hold of his manhood and slowly rubbed the outside of her lips with it. 

She arched into him opening her legs a little more to accommodate him. She wanted to feel him so bad and it was slowly becoming a need. He heard exactly what her body was saying and eased himself inside of her. He gritted his teeth as he felt her grip his length. He looked back at her and saw her eyes were pleading with him to continue. 

He thrust his full length inside of her stiffening as she gripped him. Her mouth flew open as he continued to stroke her inside with a delicious sensation. He leaned down to kiss her as she wrapped her legs around his waist as he pushed in quicker. 

"Oh Nik, that feels so good." She said gritting her teeth.

He leaned his head on her shoulder as he relished in her hot wetness. It felt like heaven to him; it made his head swirl in ecstasy and his body tightens. Her moans filled his ears sounding like complete song. He lifted his head up and connected with her lust filled heavy eyes. He pounded inside of her as her nails dug into his back. He barely even noticed the pain; he just wanted to get as deep inside her as he could. 

"Fuck." He whispered as she clamped down on his length.

She could feel her toes curling and her body soaring to impossible lengths. No one has ever satisfied her so thoroughly. She screamed out his name in his ear biting down on his shoulder. Oh he loved the fact that she seems so primal when they had sex. He couldn't hold back any longer and felt his entire body stiffen as he spilled himself inside her. He growled against her neck tightening his hold on her hips. The room was filled with their heavy breathing as they lie there unmoved. In truth, Dominique didn't want him to move, if she could, she would have them stay like this all night. Nik shut his eyes tight trying to decipher what was really going on here. Why was his body reacting this way with her? 

The early morning came so quick that Dominique wanted to actually sleep a little bit longer. She took her time saying good bye to Nik's mother and sisters promising to keep in touch with them. Nik was loading the bags up with his father while she was still talking to Ada. 

"Are you sure that you are going to call me? I want to hopefully see more of you Dominique."

"Yes ma'am. I have your number so we can still talk, I promise."

"Okay." She gave her one more hug, "You two have a good drive." 

Dominique nodded and got in the truck waiting on Nik to say another good bye to his family. She was truly going to miss them. While she waited, she went ahead and text the girls that they were leaving now. 

Nik had been pretty quiet for most of the drive. She figured that his dad must have told him something and he was thinking about it. She hoped that he wasn't rethinking what they shared this weekend. Even though she knew how Nik operated, they didn't stop the upcoming feelings she was having for him. No, she had to push them away; it was nothing but good sex. Well, great sex. 

She sighed and looked out the window watching the trees go by. She didn't even notice when he exited until she saw different scenery. They were in a town, a pretty small one too. She didn't know why but something about this brought a sickness in the pit of her stomach. She sat up at full attention when he stopped at a restaurant. Once she saw the name of the place, her heart stopped.

"Nik, what the hell are you doing?" she said staring at him as if he had performed the ultimate betrayal.

"I figured that we could go ahead and get some food to eat."

"You know that's not what I was talking about. Why are we at this restaurant?"

"Dominique, you need to go through with this. No more putting off and no more excuses." She paused staring back at the restaurant, "You know you want to do it and you need to above all. You just need to talk to the man." 

Dominique bit down on her bottom lip looking at the place that was filled with people. He was right and she did need to do this but could she really face him after all these years? Why should she do it at his restaurant of all places? She sighed to herself as he got out the car waiting patiently for her. Well, no time like the present she thought taking a deep breath before getting out. Nik smiled as they both walked inside to see the place packed. She watched Nik walk to the hostess that looked like she was in her late teens. She was taller than Dominique only by a little bit but she was a pretty girl especially around the eyes. 

"Hi, welcome to Pop's Restaurant, is it just the two of you?" she asked with a bright smile.

"Yes, please." Nik replied. 

She looked around for a little bit and then returned her attention back to them, "Okay, well follow me and I will show you to your table." They followed her to a nearby table by the window. Dominique stayed quiet the entire time but she wondered if this girl could be her half-sister. She looked like the pictures the she seen of her father. The thought of possibly meeting her sister for the first time was a little exciting. She looked around the restaurant and everyone looked as if they were having a good time enjoying the food. Well that's one thing she didn't know about him. Aunt Crystal didn't really go into details about her father other than how they grew up. 

Dominique took a deep breath and turned towards Nik as he looked through the menu. She felt her palm sweating and felt her body shaking. She closed her eyes tight trying to calm her nerves from escalating. She felt on a brink of a panic attack and she said a small prayer in her mind. As she took a deep breath she felt something grab her hand and she instantly flipped her eyes open and saw Nik's hand holding hers. She relaxed into his soft touch taking a deep breath. She nodded and looked into his eyes as a warm feeling cast over her body. She was feeling a little more at ease with him being there. An older woman came to the table with a warm smile on her face, "Hi, sorry about the wait, we are a little short on staff. What can I get you good looking people?"

"Um, I'm not sure." She stammered.

"Do you guys need a little more time?" she asked looking between the two.

"Well, what do you recommend? We are just really passing by and new around here." Nik said striking the conversation with her. 

The lady smiled and just before she said another word, she took another look at Dominique. She looked at her as if she was trying to decipher or trying to place her face somewhere. Dominique nibbled on her bottom lip as the woman stared at her. Nik could see the woman's mouth part the more she looked at her. 

"Um...well we have really good fish here. My husband is the owner and cook and it's a special recipe."

"Really? Well, I have always been the type of person that wants to talk to the cook just to get a feel for him. Is there a way we can talk to him just for a minute?" Nik said and the woman just swallowed hard.

"Yea, I will get him." She said quickly retreating to the back. 

"She knows." Dominique whispered to him once the woman went to the back.

"Good, she should know. Hopefully, we will get the answers needed." He said watching the kitchen door.

"Nik, do you think we should leave? What if she tells him and he doesn't show up?"

He sighed, "Oh he is going to show up and if he doesn't I have friends in very high places around here that can make this situation very bad for him." Nik nodded returning his attention to the door.

Dominique turned towards the door and saw an older heavy set man come out and she stopped breathing for a second. He was completely bald and seemed taller than she would have thought. He was wiping his hands on his towel and had a smile on his face as he made his way to their table. She couldn't believe it; she was really going to meet him for the first time. She did look like him, she could see why his wife looked at her the way she did. Her heart was beating so hard that she felt like it was going to pop out of her chest. 

"How are you doing, sir? My wife tells me you want to see me about the fish." He said with a smile, putting his hands on his hips.

"Yes, I heard that it was a special recipe." Nik said casting a glance between him and Dominique.

"Oh yes, something that I had for some time now. It's a family secret and I will guarantee that you will enjoy it."

"A family secret? Where are you from?" Dominique finally spoke and he glanced her way.

"Well, I am from Davidton, not far from here."

"Oh really, we are heading back to Davidton now. You may know some people there."

The man cleared his throat, "Well, I don't know. I have family there, is there something else I can help you with? I have to get back to my kitchen." he said trying to leave the table.

"Do you know a Crystal Richardson?" Dominique finally said, "Or maybe a Arisu Lin?" 

His gaze immediately went to Dominique and she swallowed hard. He looked as if she laid a bomb at his feet; in a way she did. Nik looked at him to gauge his reaction.

"Who are you?" He finally asked.

"I think you know who I am." 

He cleared his throat looking towards the back, "I don't think I do."

"I'm your daughter. I'm Dominique. Your sister and my mom have been raising me and I just wanted to see you and talk to you."

He took a long look at her; she knew that he was trying to see if what she was saying was true. She looked like him some so he couldn't deny it. It seemed like the entire area got quiet waiting for him to say something.

"I think you have the wrong person ma'am." He finally said and she felt as if someone punched her in the chest.

It took her awhile to find her voice, "No, I don't. I already know what happened between you and my mother. I don't want anything; I just want to talk."

"I'm sorry miss but I am not the person that you think I am and I don't appreciate you bringing my sister's name into this." He said coldly and Nik's temperature raised. The nerve of this asshole, Nik thought.

"Did you hear what she said? She doesn't want anything from you; she just wants to talk to you. Damn man, it isn't that hard." Nik said as his fist balled up.

"I'm telling you that I am not this girl's father and I appreciate her real father wouldn't appreciate you approaching him like this. I have a family here and you saying things like this could really upset them. Now if you not going to order anything, then you need to leave." There were a couple of guys that came from the back about just as tall as him. Dominique's heart was breaking; this wasn't what she pictured.

"Yea I will order an asshole with a side of being a dick." Nik said and the two guys moved towards Nik but her dad stopped them.

"If you have a problem, then you and this young lady can leave." 

"You know," Nik scoffed, "I do have a problem." He said pushing away from the table standing in front of him.

Once Dominique saw Nik get up and the entire restaurant turn their attention to them, she instantly snapped out of her stupor. She rushed up to get between the two, "No Nik, it isn't worth it." She looked back at the man that seemed so cold, "I don't even know why I thought you would be different. Aunt Crystal warned me how you were, I just thought that maybe you would feel different now that I'm older. Thank you for confirming that I'm fine without you. Let's just go Nik, please." She sighed and the man that was suppose to be her father swallowed. She turned her attention to Nik. 

"Fine." Nik said heading to the door. 

Dominique took one more look at him before following Nik out the restaurant. She felt a little hollow after everything that happened. A part of her was happy that she finally got that over with but the way he looked at her was the part that was excruciating. He looked at her with recognition but it instantly changed to disdain. He knew who she was, she saw it in his eyes, but he didn't want to admit it. Then she recalled the men that stood by his side and a part of her knew that some of them may have been her brothers. She sat there for a moment and then thought it was for the best; there was one big load lifted off her shoulders. As far as she was concerned, she didn't have to see or speak to him ever again. 

Nik just sat in silence mentally kicking himself. He thought that after she would see her father that he would take her in and she would be happy, but it was just the opposite. Nik couldn't believe the balls of this guy; how could any man deny his child? She looked similar to him and he still treated her like she was some crazy woman from the street. Not only that, Nik felt guilty for basically pushed her to meet him. He wished it could have been gone different. Damn it, why couldn't it be different? 

As they arrived back home, Nik figured that she wanted to go home and he wanted to wait to explain why he did what he did. Dominique looked up and saw Jade and Katrina's restaurant coming up. 

"Nik, you mind just dropping me off here. I'll get Jade to take me home."

"What?" he suddenly said and she still didn't look up at him.

He pulled over to the side and turned his attention to her, "I can take you home. I have no problem with that."

"I know you don't. It's just I want to be alone."

"Alone? Or you want to be away from me?" she sighed running her fingers through her hair, "Dominique, I didn't think he would do something like that. I wanted you to finally face your father and I'm sorry that I pushed you. I just thought it would be helpful." He said blubbering and she sighed.

She finally faced him and saw the sorrow in his eyes; something about that look touched her deeply and made her heart beat overtime. She reached for his face and took hold of it with both her hands making him look up at her.

"Nik, you were great. Without you I probably still wouldn't have the courage that I did to see him. I know that we both wanted it to be different but this is the closure that I needed with him. Thank you so much for all that you have done for me this weekend."

"I just wanted you to have fun and relax." He finally said as the soft stroke of her finger against his cheek made him shiver inside.

"And I did, I really truly did. I just want to hang out with the girls for a little bit. If you want, I will see if Jade will open her trunk and I can put my stuff in her car."

"No, I will take your stuff to my place and then I can bring it to you when you get home." She smiled watching the boy in him look off to the side.

"I'll see you later okay?" he nodded and she leaned over to kiss his lips.

He sighed to himself as he felt her tongue stroke his. Even though he protested, she pulled away from him and he stared back at her, "I'll see you." He smiled and she hurried out the car before she itched to do something else with him.




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 05



He watched her tread all the way to the restaurant noticing her hips swinging to their own sensual beat. He never noticed that before, he thought with a smile. He drove away from the restaurant as an idea popped into his head for tonight. 

Dominique walked in with a little smile on her face and went to the back where she knew everyone was. She took a deep breath trying to make sure that there were no signs of anything happening this weekend. She knew they had a thing about a certain glow that happens after sex and she didn't understand it much. After taking a couple more deep breaths she opened the door as their conversation immediately ceased.

"Hey missing person, how are you doing?" Jade said with a smile.

"Welcome back." Katrina smiled.

"Hey guys, I'm good. How is everything going with you two?" Dominique said keeping her composure as she sat down in front of Jade's desk. 

Dominique looked between both of her friends and saw them both staring at her. She cleared her throat and rubbed the back of her neck.

"So, what's going on? Did I miss anything?" Dominique quickly asked. 

"I am starting to wonder if we missed something." Jade said and Katrina just giggled.

"What are you talking about?"

"How was your trip?" Katrina asked.

"It was great, his mom and dad are great and really nice. His sisters and brothers are so hilarious. I was surprised I really enjoyed myself." Dominique smiled.

"That's good, anything else happen? Like something between you and Nik?"

She cleared her throat and said with a straight face, "No, we just had a lot of fun and hung out with each other." 

"Dominique, I hope you don't think we are that blind." Jade said.

"What are you talking about?" she quickly asked.

"You and Nik, it's written all over your face."

Dominique swallowed hard and quickly shook her head as she felt her throat go dry, "I mean nothing major happened. Just a little kiss sometimes." She swallowed and they continued looking at her. Her brow started to sweat and she started twiddling with her thumbs, "I mean we may have had sex once or twice." She finally admitted under their strong stare.

Jade and Katrina jaw dropped and it was at that moment she realized that she fell for it. She always fell for it and this was definitely something she didn't want them to know yet. 

"Why do I always fall for that?" Dominique said looking up at the ceiling.

"We don't know but we love it when you do. You slept with Nik?"Jade said. She sighed, "Yes, I slept with him and it was very nice. That's it."

"That seems pretty different for you Dominique. You normally don't sleep with someone that you aren't in a relationship with." Katrina said.

"I know. I don't know what came over me. I felt pulled to him and when it happened, I felt like something just exploded inside me."

"So I guess what they say about Nik is true, huh?" Jade smiled.

"What? What do they say about him? I mean I'm pretty sure there is some sort of rumor going around about his skills in the bedroom." Dominique quickly retreated.

"We were just kidding. There is nothing going around about him; at least, not that we heard."

"Oh, I'm sorry. I'm just a little bit paranoid about it. Like you said, I don't do casual sex but it was so much fun." She said with a smile, "Then on our way back, I saw my dad." She said lowly and Katrina gasped. 

"You did? Did you find out what he was like?" Katrina asked.

"What did he say to you?" Jade quickly fired off.

"Guys, don't get your hopes up too quickly. He kept saying that he was not my father. I looked him right in the eyes and he kept denying it." Katrina was the first to come over and give Dominique a big hug, "I'm so sorry sweetheart."

"Are you going to try again?" Jade asked.

"I'm not and I'm okay with that. I made the effort when I really didn't have too and he still rejected me, even though his sister raised me. I saw him and now that I did, I can be at peace. I mean, it's his loss." Dominique smiled as Katrina smiled back at her rubbing her shoulder.

"You're right, it is his loss." Katrina agreed.

"If you feel this way about him, why can't you feel the same way when it comes to your mom?" Jade asked; something that Dominique knew would come from Jade.

"It's different. She has been there my whole life and my dad hasn't."

"Your mom has been there for you in body but everything else she hasn't been. I'm not trying to beat you up about this," Jade said when she saw the uncomfortable look on Dominique's face, "I am just concerned that you are trying to bend over backwards for her and in the end, it's having an effect on you." 

"Everything will work out in the end. I have no choice but to keep believing that and as my friends you two don't have any choice but to be there for me."

Jade shrugged, "Well, that's true. If you really feel that way then I will stop over stepping and let you handle it. Now, lets move on to you and Nik." Jade smiled.

"This is nothing going on to discuss. We are just two really good friends," Dominique paused, "but I have to admit there is something there."

"Do explain." Katrina said.

"I mean there is this sexual tension that is very evident between us and I may have acted on it. I enjoyed it a lot, but that's not where I need to focus on. I still have Jason and all this other stuff."

"Are you really still going through with the seducing Jason thing?" Katrina asked.

"Yes, I think." Dominique paused, "Look it doesn't matter. I know what I have planned and that's what I'm sticking too."

"Well, alright. We will stick by your decision because we know that you will make the right one." Katrina said with a smile and Jade nodded in agreement. 

"Good, now can you guys take me home? I need to go ahead and unpack and give Jason a call. I know he called me while I was there and I need to get back to him." Dominique forced a smile and sighed.

After talking a little bit longer with the girls, Jade took Dominique home without any arguments. She wasn't really looking forward to calling Jason so soon. She wanted to just sit around for a while. She made it into her bedroom and was greeted with her luggage. She smiled to herself thinking about Nik, he was truly sweet but how did he get the key to her apartment? She could hardly believe he did everything he could to let her see her dad. Even though it didn't go well, she was truly grateful for everything that he had done. A little part of her wanted to call him over to keep her company, at least he could get her mind off some things and what's weird was it was a little bit more than the sex. Oh well, he was probably in his apartment hanging with the guys or something. 

She was about to start unpacking when she heard the door. She must have forgotten something in Jade's car. She went over to the door and smiled at who she saw on the other side. 

"I thought you might want some company." Nik said with a smile.

"And what makes you think that?" she said returning the smile but putting her hands on her hips.

"Well, I at least need the company. I'm watching a scary movie and I need someone to hold my hand." He said holding up a DVD.

Dominique took a close look and gasp in shocked, "Is that Nightmare on Elm Street 3? Where did you find it?"

"I actually went to one of those Goth stores and found it there. I was thinking a little Freddy Kruegar with some ice cream." He said producing another sack and she couldn't help but to laugh. 

"Well, why not?" she said moving out the way letting him in. 

She let him set up the DVD player while she went to grab a couple of spoons. She didn't realize how excited she was about watching a movie with him. It was just a normal movie that she watched plenty of times before but for some reason it was different. She shook her head quickly. She needed to stop over thinking things and just feel. She joined Nik back in the living room and saw him lounging on the couch waiting to start the movie. 

"So, what brought this on?" she asked sitting next to him.

"Well, a very smart woman told me that she loves to watch scary movies with her favorite ice cream and she would feel better." He said taking the spoon as she opened the ice cream.

"Nik, I told you I'm okay about what happened earlier."

"Your mouth says that but I know better. I looked in your eyes and saw it." He stared into her eyes and she couldn't return the stare. She just stared into the ice cream, "It hurt. I didn't know what to expect but I didn't expect that. It's like my parents spent most of my life rejecting me; he was just the first person to actually saying it."

"Well, I think with your mother it could happen, but you can't make her have a relationship with you. She has to make the move because you have done your part."

"I know, that's what everyone tells me, but it doesn't hurt to go see her just to check on her. I want some acknowledgment that I exist from them."

"And you will get it in due time." He said pulling her close to him, "Now let's pay attention to the movie." 

She sighed and put a spoon full in her mouth as the movie started. Everyone was starting to sound like a broken record. She knew that they were right about the whole thing but she still had some hope, but for now, she was going to enjoy lying here watching her movie and eating ice cream. She curled up closer to Nik as he dug into the ice cream.

"Don't eat all the chocolate chips." She said with a smile.

"What? That's one of the best parts." He smiled.

"I know that's why I said don't eat all of them." She said pushing his spoon out the way with hers.

"Oh don't be such a baby." He smiled and held up the spoon to her lips. She smiled as she wrapped her lips around the spoon, savoring it. It seemed to taste sweeter from him. 

"Well now I have something else you can wrap your mouth around like that." He smiled and she punched at his shoulder as he chuckled. They returned their attention to the movie, feeling the effects of the tiring weekend slowly overcoming them.

Nik awoke with a start when he heard the television static. He didn't even realize he had fallen asleep. He looked down and saw Dominique curled at his side asleep as well. He moved a stray piece of hair out of her face and that made her curl closer to him. Wow, he thought with a smile as she settled back to sleep. How could she be so gorgeous and not know it? 

He carefully got up laying her head softly on the couch. He turned off the television and cleaned up the ice cream making sure to throw everything away. He was about to leave but made the mistake of looking back at her. She needed to be in bed, he concluded. He lifted her up off the couch into his arms. She instantly wrapped her arms around his neck, settling her head against his shoulder. He carried her to the bedroom and laid her down on the bed. He sighed looking down at her as she pulled her knees closer to her body. Well, he didn't want too but he should leave her alone to get good nights sleep.

He was heading to the door when he heard a small sound. He turned around and saw her still laying there sleep. Well maybe he was hearing things; it has been a long day. He was about to turn away when he heard his name whispered softly.

"Nik." She whispered again and he turned to face her.

"Go back to sleep, Dominique." He said back to her.

"No, come sleep with me please." She yawned, which made him wonder if she knew what she was saying. 

He looked at her and she was still laying there sleep. Why the hell not? He got in the bed behind her and wrapped his arms around her body. She sighed with content as his body heat lulled her back to sleep. He tenderly kissed the back of her shoulder just before laying his head on the pillow. This was definitely new for him. He never just lay in bed with a girl without sex and for the first time he was content with it. What the hell was going on?



Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 06



The next couple of weeks have been a little hectic. Dominique threw herself into the wedding planning mode. She didn't know what brought on this sudden burst to work on it, but she did. She look up a couple of themes and Candy loved the red carpet theme; Dominique knew that would be easy to portray and she was a little excited about doing it. This was going to be a beautiful wedding; that is if it would happen. She was still content on getting involved with Jason. She just has been distracted lately, by Nik.

Nik. Nik. Nik. It seemed like her brain was focused on him 24 hours a day. The next morning after he spent the night, she woke up again his warm, safe embrace. She planted soft kisses on his lips, losing herself in the innocent gesture. He finally returned the kisses, with his own eager ones. They didn't have sex but just making out that morning was such a turn on. She didn't want to let him go and that confused her even more. When she was around him, her head went all loopy, so she purposely spent some time away from him. He called her a couple of times but she made sure not to stay on the phone long. Now was the perfect time for her to focus on Jason. 

She was at the office, getting ready to see Mr. Lawson. She sighed to herself because as she was jotting down notes, her mind would go back and think about feeling Nik's arms around her and Nik's kiss, especially the ones that made butterflies flutter in her stomach and her head cloudy.

"Oh for goodness sakes, girl!" Dominique shouted dropping her head on the desk, "It's not that serious." She kept repeating in her head hoping it would catch up somewhere. 

She needs to get control of herself, "Dr. Grant, Mr. Lawson is here to see you." She heard Nicole through the intercom.

"Send him in." Dominique said as she got herself together.

She would just have to put all thoughts of Nik out of her mind. It was no use to entertain any thoughts of them. The two of them didn't belong together, there was no way. They were two different people and not only that, they were heading in two different directions. Nik just needed to find him a nice little Italian girl. She swallowed hard trying to push the idea of Nik with another girl.

Mr. Lawson walked in with a goofy smile on his face and he looked a lot more relaxed. Well, seems like she wasn't the only one that had a good couple of days.

"Mr. Lawson, good to see you back." She smiled.

"Yea, how was your vacation?" he smiled taking a seat.

"It was good, but we are here to talk about you." She reminded.

"Oh well, I am good. I'm coming here to see if you do marriage counseling or can you recommend someone to me and my wife."

Dominique's mouth dropped, "So you have been talking to your wife?"

"Well that Nik fellow that was here, was right. I tried the ignoring thing and after three days, I came home and there was candle light dinner and my wife in sexy lingerie waiting for me. She fed me dinner and ran a bubble bath for me. You can guess what happened afterward." He said as a wide smile spread across his face, "We did that for a couple of nights straight, then we started talking and I realized how much I missed the way my wife use to be. I realized I was using Angel to replace her when all I wanted was my wife. We are pretty good now, but we thought we may need to talk to someone just to see where it went wrong so it doesn't happen again."

"You know I think that's an excellent idea and I am so proud of you. Have you talked to Angel since?"

"Just to apologize to her and I told her that things were going to change now. I just feel so much better doctor. Not just because of the sex but I feel like I have my loving wife back."

"Well, I'm glad. This is what I want you to do, talk it over with her, call my office and we can set an appointment for you both."

"Great, thank you so much and tell your friend I said thanks too. He must really know women."

"Actually I think he specializes in them." She walked him out to the door, shaking her head.

"Well, he was great. I will see you when Lillian and I agree on a time." He waved to Nicole just before jumping on the elevator.

"That was quick and he was very happy." Nicole smiled.

"Yea, he got his wife back. Anyway, how you do on your test?"

"Great, I got an A and I think I know what I want to major in." she smiled.

"I thought you were going to be a doctor?"

"Well, I want to be a specific type of doctor and I think I want to go into sports medicine. You know, helping athletes with injuries and things like that."

"I think that would be great, are you going to try for a local team?" 

"Yea or work at the university, I'm not sure yet but that's what I want to do."

"I think that would be a great idea. I'm glad to hear that sweetie."

Nicole smiled uncomfortably and looked off, "Dominique, can I talk to you about something a little personal?" she said softly and Dominique couldn't help but smile.

"Sure, let's go in my office, these shoes hurt my feet." Nicole laughed as they both walked in her office, "What's on your mind?"

"Gale. I know what she did was wrong and I pretty much forgiven her for what she did to Jade. I know she thinks that she did what was best and I still love her. She wasn't always like this, she was a little happier. I just don't want to believe what happened between her and Patrick."

"Well from what I heard about them, they were a very serious couple. It can be horrible to break up with someone, especially when you were engaged."

"It makes no sense though; he was happy and wanted to marry her. He helped us so much when he was here. When I needed him, he was there and what we couldn't afford, he helped. Not to say it was all about the money but he was very sweet and funny. I just don't understand why you would put so much effort into a relationship when you are going to break up, especially when you ask them to marry you."

Dominique chuckled to herself, "I see you never been in a relationship before. Sometimes you put extra work into something for it to work. I don't know what was going on in his life. Did you guys?"

"He was pretty silent about his family. We knew his dad was this big time business man in Ireland and Patrick came down here for school. Other than that, he didn't go into too much detail."

"It could be something his family said too. I mean we may never know. I tried to talk to Gale about it but she just shrugged it off."

"Well, I was thinking about trying to find him just to get some answers. I think that's the least Gale deserves."

"I don't know if that is such a great idea only because we don't want to step on any toes. It could be a sensitive issue with her as we see."

"I know but now that Gale is going through her divorce, I want her to be happy with who she truly loves."

Dominique smiled at Nicole's hopeful eyes, "Nicole, you are too sweet. You really believe in love?" Dominique said looking at Nicole fidget and smile.

"Well I do watch my fair share of relationships with friends and family. I love the idea of love and its wonderful thing to experience even though it may hurt. I just hope I'm lucky enough to go through it. Have you ever been in love?"

"I have before. I had an occasion where I thought I was in love with this guy from college and he was my first. After awhile, he got on my nerves and I couldn't take it anymore. And then there is Jason; the first time I fell for him was when I was 12."

"It must be hard to plan his wedding." Dominique paused, "Good thing you have Nik." Dominique nearly swallowed her tongue at that last statement, "What? I don't have Nik. We are just friends."

"Really? I don't know because the way he looks at you is not very friendly."

"He looks at me different?" Dominique asked in disbelief and Nicole innocently nodded, "Well, um, we are just friends. I mean he is helping with some things right now but we are just friends."

"Well, I wish I had someone look at me that way. I'm use to guys ignoring me or asking me to do their homework. The only way I get some sort of attention from guys is when I run but it's mostly them cheering me to win. Some guys just suck sometimes, well accept this one." She said staring up dreamily. 

"Nicole, do you have a crush?" Dominique smiled and she just giggled.

"Maybe, I mean he is funny, talented and real sweet, not to mention very hot. I don't think he even looks at me that way but I find myself constantly thinking about him."

"Really?" 

"Yea, I sometimes wish he would grab me in his arms and just kiss me or kiss me all over." She said smiling brightly.

Dominique couldn't help but chuckle a little, "Wow, sounds like this guy really lights a fire for you. Who is this mystery man?" Nicole was about to open her mouth when they both turned at the knocking on the door. They both looked at each other quizzically before Nicole went over to answer the knock. Dominique didn't have any appointments scheduled now. Nicole cracked open the door.

"May I help you?" Nicole asked the woman on the other side of the door.

"Yes, I need to speak with Dr. Dominique Grant." Dominique heard the familiar voice but she couldn't see her.

"Well, she doesn't really have any openings for new patients right now."

"Oh, I'm not a patient; it's on a personal level. I'm Harriet Sharpe."

Sharpe?! The moment Dominique heard that name she shot up off the couch. She came up behind Nicole to confirm what she had slightly feared. There on the other side was her father's wife. As soon as she saw Dominique she gave her a small smile. What was she doing here?

"Um, Nicole, why don't you go to lunch?" 

"Are you sure?" Nicole said turning back to Dominique.

"Yea and we will talk later." Nicole excused herself passing by Mrs. Sharpe.

The two women stared at each other in silence for awhile before Dominique finally spoke, "Why don't you come in?" Dominique motioned and she stepped inside looking around her office before settling on the couch.

Dominique was so confused. Did he send her here to yell at her? Well she had a few choice words that she can take back to him. 

"You have done quite well for yourself. Crystal has made sure you had the best despite everything." Dominique's mouth dropped.

So she knew about her? Dominique proudly stuck her chin out and sat down on the opposite chair. She was going have to channel her strength to get through this. Dominique cleared her throat and crossed her arms in front of her.

"Yes she did. So, you knew about me and that I wasn't lying?" Dominique finally said.

"I always knew about you. I admit I haven't seen any recent pictures of you. I guess Crystal stopped sending them when you got older. At the restaurant, I knew it was you as soon as I saw you." She sighed, "I'm so sorry for what he did."

"Does he think I want something from him, because I don't. I just want some sort of acknowledgement from him. Is that so hard?"

"No, it's not. Let me tell you about him. We were dating off and on but we didn't tell anyone because I was in the military traveling all the time. I came back on Christmas of 1978 and told him I want to be serious if he was ready, if not I was moving on. He told me he loved me and wanted this to work. The next day, he moved where I was stationed."

"Christmas, that was when he left my mom." Dominique stated.

"I know. He started getting letters and things from Crystal but ignored them or threw them away. One day I happened to look into one of those letters and saw pictures of you. I confronted him about it constantly and he told me to ignore it. Finally he told me everything that happened between him and your mother. He didn't think you were his child no matter how much Crystal tried to convince him or me for that matter. So, what I did was taken a little bit of money and sent it to Crystal to help with whatever you needed." 

Dominique sighed out loud running her fingers through her hair, "Why did he do this?"

"He was young and dumb. I don't know what else to say that will give you any kind of comfort. Any answer I give you is not going to give you the answers you need. Plus, you don't need to hear them from me." She stammered.

"Then why did you come?" Dominique spatted in a tone she didn't expect to come out so harshly. 

It was so vindictive and malicious. Harriet cleared her throat feeling the room temperature drop, "I came to apologize. I hoped when he saw you in his face, he would have no choice but to accept you. If you give me some time to talk to him, maybe I can convince him otherwise."

Dominique looked into her eyes and saw the sincerity. She didn't have to come here, she didn't have to do anything and here she was trying to make this right. The only thing is it was coming from the wrong person. She took a deep breath, retracting the claws a little.

"I really appreciate you coming here and telling me this. It's just that I wish I could have heard everything from him. I have been waiting so long to hear from him but nothing. Why did you still help when you did?"

Harriet took a deep inhale and looked down at her hands before looking back up at her, "I'm hoping my husband does finally get it and attempt a relationship with you; not only for you but for him and for our children too. I think they deserve to know their sister." Dominique nodded and took a deep breath, "I really must be going though. I have a restaurant to get to." She stood up and Dominique stood with her.

"Thank you for everything, Mrs. Sharpe." She nodded.

"You are welcome. I'll leave you my number if you want to talk." 

"I would but I don't know if that would cause problems between you and him." 

"You let me deal with that." Dominique smiled as Harriet jotted down her number.

"Thanks." Dominique said taking the paper from her.

"You're welcome. Have a good day sweetie." She smiled just before leaving.

Dominique looked down at the number trying to decipher everything she said. She plopped down on the couch feeling a mixture of emotions: anger, hurt, every emotion was coming back. It was also a sense of relief that shook through her. She wanted to cry but her better senses told her not to shed one tear for him. 

She heard a small knock at the door; probably was Nicole letting her know she was back. She walked over to the door and the first thing she saw was a pair of concerned green eyes. She knew exactly who it was.

"I was driving by and I saw his wife leaving, are you okay?" 

She opened her mouth to say something but it wouldn't come out. She just saw him standing there and it was too much for her. She flung herself into his arms holding on to him tightly.

"What's the matter? What did she say?" he asked sensing his anger boiling.

"Just hold me please." She whispered and felt him tighten his hold around her.

She tried to hold back everything but couldn't any longer. She felt the first sting of tears roll down her cheek and plenty followed after like a flowing river. Nik felt her body shaking like a leaf in his arms and he held her tighter.

"What did she say to you?" he asked again and all Dominique could do was shake her head, "What's wrong then?"

"She just further let me know that I don't need him." She said finally pulling away from his shoulder.

"Well, we knew that. What happened between you and his wife?"

"She basically came to apologize for him and that she wishes it could be different. She left me her number but I don't think I will call her." She said reluctantly pulling out of his embrace.

"Why not? This could be your chance."

"No, everyone was right. I should not even try with him. I did my part."

"You have done more than enough. You just need to understand that sometimes the way you want people to be don't always live up to that. You know I know that for sure."

"You're talking about Gianni? Is he really getting out still?"

"I have been talking to him since we left and he still wants out. He just may have to leave town for awhile."

"You see for you Gianni came around eventually." 

"He came around himself. I didn't push him and I let him figure everything out on his own. That's what you will have to do. It's going to be hard but the pay off will be bigger."

"And if my parents never come around?"

"Then you keep on the way you been. Like I told you, you have a lot of wonderful people that love and care for you."

"How come you always know the right thing to say?" she said wrapping her arms around his neck and smiling up at him. 

"What can I say, it's a gift." He smiled back.

As they stared at each other, a warm feeling spread through Dominique's body. It was that same feeling where her stomach felt queasy and her vision of everything that they have done come into her head. Oh wow, this was getting so out of hand, but she couldn't really fight the pull. Dominique was going to lean in for a kiss when her phone interrupted them. Nik let out a big sigh as she looked down at her cell phone. She groaned inward as she saw who it was. 

"Hey Jason." As soon as she said his name, Nik moved away from her. 

"Always at the wrong time." Nik mumbled.

"Hey Dominique, are you busy right now?" Jason asked.

"Um, not really; I was just talking to Nik."

"Oh okay then you have time." He said and Dominique just blinked, "I need some help tomorrow."

"What can I do?"

"Well you know how I am as a dancer, right?" Dominique started laughing thinking about when he tried to dance back when they were younger.

"You mean to tell me you still haven't learned to dance?"

"Hey, I know I have two left feet. I want to surprise Candy and take some classes."

"Oh well I know a couple of places that are teaching them."

Nik watched Dominique talk on and on to that bothersome Jason. He will never understand the pull this guy has over her. Why was she so hug up over him? He has a feeling that Jason was a bit on the boring side and that Candy was his excitement. Why can't Dominique focus on another guy? One that will fit her? Oh well, he was sure that she would never find someone that will make her toes curl like him. He thought about that and it brought a cocky smile to his face. He pushed away from the wall he was leaning on and walked over to her like a predator after his meal. He wrapped his arms around her lower back, having her scent fill his nose. She turned to him wide eyed, wondering what he had planned since she was on the phone. He gave her that killer smirk before lowering his mouth to her neck, letting his tongue slowly glide across her neck.

Dominique bit down on her lower lip as she felt her knees start to give a little. She was lucky that he was holding her up, because she knew that she would have been on the ground. She was so caught up in what Nik was doing that she wasn't really paying attention to what Jason said.

"Dominique!" she heard him say into the phone impatiently. 

"Huh?" she moaned.

"Are you going with me?"

"To where?" she said trying to push Nik away but he wasn't budging.

"The dance class; I need a partner and I want to surprise Candy."

"Um, what time does it start and what do I get out of it since you are taking a Saturday away from me?"

"Well, you get my undying love and affection." At that moment Nik nibbled on her tender spot on her neck and before she knew it, a moan escaped her lips, "What was that?" Jason said.

"I said oh." She quickly corrected trying to push Nik away as he was laughing lightly, "Yea sure I will go with you tomorrow."

"Great, I will pick you up tomorrow around one."

"Sure, yea, bye Jason." She quickly hung up the phone and pushed Nik away, "Are you out of your mind?"

"My brothers seemed to think so sometimes." He shrugged.

"I am sure now that you are a bit insane. What if he would have heard that?"

"Then it would be okay, you told him that you were with your boyfriend. What would lunch be if I was on my best behavior?"




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 06



"I don't know; lunch?" she said sarcastically and Nik just shook his head.

"That's what you think. So, what are you doing on Saturday?"

"We are just supposed to go to this class and dance, nothing special."

"Oh really? So you two will be dancing with each other during the whole class." He said going to stand by the desk.

"Yea you know, just some stupid little dance class, no biggie." She shrugged but Nik knew her enough to see that she was down playing the situation. 

She went over to the desk and was about to sit down when Nik backed her onto the desk. She nibbled down on her bottom lip as she stared into his intense green eyes. She knew that look, that's the predator look. The look that she was trying to avoid and that's why she have been avoiding him. Now she didn't want to avoid him, a part of her inside wanted to be devoured by him. 

"So, will it be like when you danced with me?" he whispered, setting himself between her legs. She took a deep inhale at the heat that started in her nether region and course through her body, "I don't think so."

Nik leaned in closer to her ear as he felt her body press closer to him, "Why not?"

"Well mainly because he can't dance. "she smiled.

"And?"

"And, I guess there is something about dancing with you." She paused, "Is that what you wanted to hear?"

"As long as that's the truth, then yea." He smiled.

"Can I admit something to you?" she whispered back and he tilted his head, staring back at her, "I kind of missed you." She said lowering her head.

Something about that little statement made something in Nik swell up inside, but why didn't she want to look at him? He hooked her chin and pulled her face up till she was eye level with him. 

"Now say that again, looking at me." He commanded.

She smiled and swallowed hard, "I missed you." She said and Nik's lips instantly attached to hers. 

Dominique wrapped her arms around his neck as his tongue slowly moved against hers. He wanted to see how much she really missed him. He lighten his touch against her lips softly pecking and nibbling on them. Dominique sighed against his lips, wanting him to return that same pressure that he had earlier. She wanted more of that intense feeling of his lips, but he wouldn't return it. She groaned in frustration and pulled him a little closer pressing her lips harder against his. Nik smiled to himself as he felt her forcefully move her tongue into his mouth. Damn, he wanted to know what that tongue and lips could really do against his throbbing cock. Nik always felt like a bundle of raw sexuality around her. He always been a sexual person but being around her, made him crave her. She backed further onto the desk, making her skirt hike up a bit more. 

Nik grabbed the back of her thighs and pulled her to him; his hand nearly burning from the heat of her body, "You want me to come over tonight?" he asked in between kisses and felt her nod, "Talk to me." He whispered.

"Yes, of course I do." She sighed pulling away from him briefly, "What time will you be over?"

"I have to pull a pretty late shift tonight, that's if you feel like waiting. I know you have a big day tomorrow with your dance class and everything."

"I think you are trying to make fun of what's happening tomorrow." She said trying to push him away.

"I'm just saying that you are getting very excited about dance class." He smiled but there was something in his eyes that Dominique was trying to pick up.

She grabbed him by the shirt collar and pulled him to her and laid a deep kiss on him, pushing her tongue into his mouth. For a moment Nik's knees buckled as she took full control of the kiss. He knew she had a lot of passion, but wow. They pulled away from each other and Nik opened his eyes to stare into her deep dark pools. 

"Officer, can you make a stop to my house when you get done? I think I need your assistance." She smiled and Nik couldn't help but to laugh.

His little doctor was certainly coming out of her shell, "Will do, ma'am, I'm here to protect and serve." 

The next day, Dominique was all ready for her day with Jason. Even though she enjoyed her time with Nik the other night, today with Jason was going to be fun. It was funny though, a part of her didn't want to get out of bed with Nik. Just having him there, holding her was so comforting and felt somewhat normal. Oh well, no use harboring on that. She decided she was going to go all out and wear her hair down. Nik couldn't keep his hands off it; he kept telling her how much he loved to see her hair down. She never really thought of her curly hair as that great, but she was starting to like it down and being out of the pinstripe suits around Nik. It was refreshing being at ease with him. 

"So, are you ready to cut a rug with lawyer boy?" Nik asked buttoning up his shirt.

"You know if I didn't know any better I would think you were a little jealous Nik." She teased slipping her ankle length skirt.

"Jealous? Me? Come on sweetheart, how can I be that I'm jealous of lawyer boy," he walked over to her and lifted her up. Her legs instantly wrapped around his waist, "when it was my name you were screaming last night?" he said with a brief kiss and Dominique couldn't help but smile.

"And you are getting cocky too, but I guess you were always that so." She shrugged and he placed her on her feet while she laughed. 

"I'm not cocky, just sure of myself sweetheart. So, what else do you and lawyer boy have planned? Where is the dance class at?"

"So far as I know that's it and he is taking me for lunch. The dance class is at Mrs. June's school of dance. I use to go there sometimes when I was younger."

"Really? I would picture you as a dancer too."

"Yea, well, my aunt could only afford so many classes and when Mrs. June heard of our situation, she agreed to teach me for half price. My aunt didn't want to ask my mom for that money." 

"Well that was nice of her. I don't know me and the guys may stop by there to whisk the day away with you two."

"Nik, come on now. Don't be silly."

"I'm serious; James needs to learn how to dance sooner or later." He smiled and she just shook her head, "I'm only kidding with you, baby. Enjoy the dance." 

"Thank you."

"Oh and have you called my mom?"

"Yea, she must have asked you about me?"

"She did. She was wondering if you were alright and everything was good here."

"You know, you should take me back there soon. I wouldn't mind visiting your family again." She said smiling.

Nik stopped in his steps, "Are you sure? You want to see them again with me?"

"Of course Nik. I told you, I love your family." Nik cleared his throat and looked off, "Right, I have to go back home and hang with the fellows."

"Alright then, see you later." She said walking him to the door, "Thanks again Nik." She said leaning her head against the door.

"Hey, any time baby." He said kissing her briefly and left. 

Dominique leaned her head against the door with a smile. She could still feel the touch of his lips on hers and she traced her fingers over them. She quickly shook her head, what was going on? She was getting way too wrapped up in Nik. She knew it before, but now it's really getting out of hand. She cleared her throat, grabbed her purse, headed out the door. Nothing is going on between her and Nik, it's just really good sex. She needed to hurry up and make Jason fall for her so that this thing between her and Nik could be done. 

Jason met her downstairs with a smile as she went over to his car, "Look at you. How are you doing?" he asked.

"I'm good and you?" 

"Oh, are you wearing a shirt that shows your stomach." He said.

"It's just showing it a little. It's a comfortable shirt." She smiled.

"I don't know, I'm use to seeing you a bit conservative." Dominique's brow wrinkled.

"You don't like my clothes?"

"Well, I'm just use to seeing you being professional."

"Well, I'm off today, so, this is what I wear." She smiled feeling a little uneasy about this conversation with Jason, "Come on now Jason, I wasn't always in pinstripe skirts since I was a kid."

"No, I didn't say there was anything wrong with it, it's..." he stammered, "How about we just go?"

Dominique nodded as they both went to the car. They made it all the way to the school without saying one word to each other. That was so unlike them; Dominique and Jason never had an odd tense moment. Dominique walked ahead of Jason not pausing to wait on him. 

"Dominique." She heard him say and she turned around with a sigh, "I'm sorry if I said something to make you upset. I really didn't mean to."

"Right Jason." She said shaking her head.

"I'm serious Dominique. I'm sorry, can we start dancing on a good note. Besides, it's better for you to be mad at me after I step all over your feet." He smiled and she couldn't help but laugh.

"Let's go." She sighed pulling him to the class room. 

"So, have you asked her yet?" Scott asked grabbing an apple.

"No, I haven't. I will when the time is right." James said looking through some files.

"I think someone has a dash of cold feet." Nik said sitting back in his seat.

"I am not. I am just waiting on the right time like I said. Why are you two rushing me?" James said sitting the file down.

"No one is rushing you. It must be pretty hard to think about going through this again." Nik said putting his feet up on James' desk.

"Well actually," James came around and knocked Nik's feet off, "it's not that hard, especially if you are really sure about the person you want to be with."

"Wow that sounded like you were really serious there."

"I'm always serious when it comes to my future wife. Now what about you father to be?"

"Hey I am patiently waiting by my phone for that call. She is with her mom, doing mother/daughter stuff. I am worn out." 

"Late night cravings?" James smiled.

"Just wait till your time comes. I would love to see how you handle Jade wanting egg rolls with pickles and peanut butter at two in the morning." Nik and James made a disgusted face and started laughing.

"It will be a long time before we see little ones running around from me." James said, "So, what girl has been on Nik's hit list?" Nik shrugged.

"I haven't really had time for that lately." Nik shrugged.

"Oh that's right, you've been around Dominique, seems like you have a great time pretending." Scott said.

"We are just friends." Nik reiterated.

"Whatever, we see that glow that she has going on. Katrina is already planning couple dinner parties as soon as she has the baby." 

"There is no couple though. We are just hanging out and enjoying each other's company." Nik reminded.

"I'm so sure. You don't have to admit anything to us; we see the look on your face." James said.

"And that look would be?" Nik sighed.

"The look of when you really like a girl. We already know it's true. You took the girl to see your parents for a weekend."

"My mom wanted to meet her so I can assure her that we are just friends."

"Yea, and taking her to meet your mother is a really good way to prove that." Scott smiled. 

"There is nothing going on between us, just two people having fun together."

"And occasionally enjoying a lot of extra in between." James replied and Nik just sucked on his teeth.

"Yea man, you can fool your parents, only mildly but you can't fool us. You don't give girls as much time as you have given Dominique. I swear it will be okay if you do like her. You're not going to turn into stone."

Nik shook his head, "Alright, I do like her a little. She's nice to have around and she is really sweet. She's stuck on lawyer boy though, which I still do not understand."

"Really?"

"I mean, she is basically ruling this decision on him being the one based on the wrong thing."

"Well, what is she basing it on?"

"On the fact that they know each other longer and that it fits as she says. I think a majority of it is a race thing."

"Why you say that?" 

"I just have a feeling. I mean, you told me before Scott that race has been some what of a sensitive issue with her, especially with everything concerning her mom and dad."

"I mean I did say that once before, but I would think after everything that you two have been through she would have looked past that." Scott said scratching the back of his head. 

"Yea, well I don't think she has." He shrugged. 

"You sound upset about that Nik." James said.

"I mean, I'm not saying that I'm the guy for her or that I care of anything," He stammered, "but don't base your decision over something as ridiculous as that. It's so pointless."

"Yea, when there are so many other things she can base that decision on." James said and they both started laughing.

Nik sucked at his teeth again staring at the cackling hyenas, "That's so funny, I'm dying inside." Nik said sarcastically.

"Oh don't be so sensitive. I'm starting to wonder who you are now." James said pulling out some a cigarette.

"I'm still the Italian stallion." Nik smiled.

"That is almost tamed." James added, "Where is your girl at now?"

"She is not my girl and she is at some stupid dance class with lawyer boy." 

"And you let her go?" Scott said.

"Key word Scott, we are only pretending to be together. I don't care what she does with him." Nik said clearing his throat and both men stared at him in disbelief, "What? It's only a stupid dance, nothing more or less." They still didn't say anything but just continued to stare at him, "Man, let's move on to something else. I'm tired of talking about me." Nik finally said and they started laughing.

"Oh you are tired of talking about yourself? Mark that on your calendar James." Scott said as he shook his head.

Nik looked down at his phone tuning the guys out a little when Ramon came in talking to James. He had to admit, a little part of him wondered what they were doing now. Was he dancing close to her, touching her lower back? Was he looking into her big brown eyes noticing how they seem to sparkle? There could be a lot of things that happen during a dance, he should know himself. He shook his head almost laughing to himself. He was bugging. Why was he tripping this much? She wasn't his to claim or was she? Well, even if she wasn't, he didn't want lawyer boy to have her either. 

"Hey, how about we go to your future wife's restaurant for lunch?" Nik suggested.

"Are you hoping to catch Dominique there?" James smiled.

"I'm hungry, they have good food, and I can put pressure on you to ask that delectable Jade to marry you before I do."

"Well, then I don't have anything to worry about because she don't want you." James smiled closing his file, "Ramon, why don't you come too?"

"Well, we need to leave someone here to watch over the place boss." He said.

"I get someone to take care of that, I want you to relax a little bit, you said you were up most of the night working on beats." Ramon quickly shrugged, "You don't have to tell me twice." He said with his killer smile, "Just let me wash up."

"That was nice of you." Nik said, "Is something wrong with you?" he joked.

"Ha ha, I just hate to see the kid work so much and hard. You know after he gets done here, he goes home and tries to make music. I want him to go out and enjoy life a little."

"It does seem like he likes to keep himself busy, did you ever ask him about that?" Scott asked.

"I tried but he was just like, he likes to work. I know he is trying to save up for more music equipment, but I think it's something else."

"Well, until he tells you, there isn't much you can do." Scott said, "Let's go get some food."

After the dance class, Dominique and Jason went out to JK restaurant for some lunch. Despite the rocky start, everything went really well. They had a lot of fun and got some stuff accomplished. Jason has actually improved a lot, but what threw Dominique off the most was the way he held her. It was like he was too comfortable with having her in his arms and held her tight. It was nice but at the same time weird. It made her heart kind of skip a beat but it wasn't anything special about it. She shrugged it off and was just happy about the progress that they made.

"So, I didn't hurt your foot much, did I?" he asked.

"No, I told you, you were great. That was definitely major progress since we were kids and you use to step all over my foot." She said and he started laughing.

"That's one thing about you Dominique; you were always so patient with me about that. You were patient with me about a lot of things." He said staring at her.

"I had no choice; you pretty much protected me through school. Without you, I would have been ducking and dodging the whole time."

"Yea, sometimes kids can be cruel, but look how much you grew up. You have your own practice and you are coming out with a book pretty soon. You have your own apartment and everything and you are really smart."

"Why Jason, I do believe you are trying to make me blush. Thank you so much for all the compliments, even though I'm not so sure why I deserve all of them." She giggled, feeling his eyes never leaving her face as she fork through the last of the spinach dip.

"Well, there is a lot you have done to deserve them. I mean, you even have a pretty decent relationship with that Nik fellow. When I see him look at you, I almost see what he sees in you." Uh oh, she immediately thought as her eyes cut to his.

This was the moment that Dominique has been waiting on, the moment that she has dreamed about, so why didn't it feel okay? 

"Yea and I see what Candy sees in you too. You two are so lucky to have each other. I know with her constantly traveling, it can be a little hard."

"Yea it is, makes me wonder if she has the capability to be stable and sit still. We talked about it last night and she was saying that she likes traveling and seeing the world and there are still places she wants to see and things she wants to do. I thought she was ready to settle in one place but it looks like she is not completely ready. You know I done my traveling and I don't want to go anywhere else. I just wish she could be a little more stable, like you." He said reaching out for her hand and rubbing the back of it with his thumb, "I never noticed that before."

"Noticed what?" she swallowed nervously feeling her body tremble at his touch.

"Your eyes kind of sparkle sometimes; it's weird I never saw that before." 

"Yea, they do that sometimes. I'm going to make a quick phone call, I'll be back." Dominique quickly said rushing to the back till she ran into Katrina, "Is your office empty?"

"Yea, are you okay?" Katrina asked noticing the flush look on her face.

"I don't know yet, I'll be back." Dominique said walking past her. 

She barged into the office and started pacing the floor. What to do? What to do? Was this really happening? Jason was actually coming on to her and she tried to feel happy. She tried to jump for joy, but nothing. What was going on? She turned immediately when the door swung open. She thought she was okay, but saw Jason standing on the other side.

"I just followed you in, to make sure you were okay." He said.

"I'm cool; just needed some breathing room."

"I made you feel uncomfortable." He said shoving his hands in his pockets.

"No, no. You know how high strung I normally am, that hasn't changed." He slowly walked closer to her and she was backed against the desk.

"That's too bad, because this is really going to make you high strung." He whispered just before she felt his lips crushing down on hers. 

Dominique gasped against his mouth as she felt his tongue slowly coax hers. It wasn't deep or sensual like Nik's just average, but felt good. She allowed herself briefly to fall into the trance and her eyes fluttered open. She stared past him to the open door and gasped at the sight.




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 06



"Oh my God, Nik." She gasped as he stood there turning all shades of red.

Nik's eyes were huge as saucers as he saw Dominique still in his arms. What the fuck was going on? His mind boiled in rage and it zeroed in on one person. Jason turned around and was met with Nik's hard right. Dominique shrieked seeing the craze look in Nik's eyes. She never seen him like this before.

"You put your hands on mine!" Nik shouted, punching Jason again. 

"Nik! Please stop!" Dominique said trying to pull him away from Jason, "It didn't mean anything." Truthfully it really didn't. Yea it caught her off guard but it wasn't that spark she expected, maybe they need to do it again. 

James and Scott rushed in the office and pulled Nik away from Jason, "I'm sorry man. I didn't mean to do it."

"Well, I'm not going to mean to kick the shit out of you." Nik said trying to get out of his friend's hold.

"Calm down, Nik; remember lawyer." Scott reminded and Nik stop thrashing. 

Nik looked down at the ground and looked back at Dominique. Her wide brown eyes didn't hide the guilt and regret. He couldn't look at her right now, not after what he saw. He just did the only thing he could think to do and left. He didn't hear his friends or Dominique calling after him, he just kept walking to his car. 

Dominique came out just to see him pull off from the curb with his tires screeching. Damn it! She ran her nervous fingers through her hair. She had to fix this somehow, but didn't have the slightest clue how; she never had this problem before. 

Jason came out and stood next to her, "Dominique, I'm so sorry. I didn't..."

"What were you thinking?! You kiss me and everything will be okay? You could have just ruined my relationship!" She shook her head vigorously, "I don't want to talk to you anymore right now. Just please leave me alone." She said and Jason just hung his head as he made his way to the car.

Jade came out and stood next to a frantic Dominique, "Either you or Nik are going for the Oscars with that performance or I'm going have to kick your butt for hurting Nik."

"I want to kick my own butt. I didn't think he was going to kiss me. I came in there to get a breather by myself and then he pops up and Nik comes in."

"Isn't this what you wanted? I'm confused."

"I don't know. I know I don't want Nik mad at me. I need to talk to him, don't I?"

"And fast." Jade added, "I mean to see Nik lose it like that, is not that common." Dominique nodded, "Can you take me home right quick please?" 

Jade nodded and they headed to her car. Dominique couldn't figure out what to say to him. Usually she had everything so planned, but she was really stumped. It racked her brain and also hurt her to think about what could possibly be going through Nik's mind. 

She hurried out of Jade's car promising to call her and went upstairs. She stood in front of Nik's door, raising her fist and then slowly putting it down. What if he wasn't home? What if he was with another woman? He could have decided to call one of his bimbos. She took a deep breath and knocked on the door. 

Nik opened the door and Dominique held her breath with excitement but it quickly died when he slammed it back in her face, "Nik please open the door." She pleaded knocking on again.

"What do we need to talk about anymore Dominique? You got what you wanted right; lawyer boy was all over you. Why are you here?"

"Nik, I really don't want to talk to you through this door, please." She pleaded again.

He swung it open and walked back into the house. She swallowed hard and walked in, closing the door. He didn't even look at her, he kept his back turned, in the kitchen. She never knew this same place could feel so cold. She felt so bad; she didn't want him to feel like this.

"Nik, let me explain what happened." She started

"I still don't get why you here and want to explain everything to me. You got your lawyer boy, salute." He said in a rich Italian accent she rarely heard.

"I don't know why he did what he did. I was in Katrina's office thinking when he came in. I didn't like entice it or anything." She said walking into the kitchen.

"Oh because if you would have enticed it, you two would have been on Katrina's desk." He said sharply, gazing briefly before walking past her.

"That's not fair. Why are you so upset about this?"

"Hey, I'm just playing into my role." He swallowed. Nik put on a smile and turned to Dominique, "I'm good, huh?"

"No, it's something else, because you were mad at me. You really think I believe that after you punched out Jason that I would bring him to your apartment?"

"Hey, I don't know what's going on in your mind, you lowered your standards with lawyer boy, so I'm not sure anymore. I guess that means you will be having a lot of boring sex with him now huh?"

"You don't know what we could do and you better watch it." She said walking closer to him.

"Oh really? Is meek little Dominique threatening me?" he scoffed.

"I'm saying that because you are speaking from an angry place and you when talking from there, you tend to say things you don't mean."

"Do you always have to be the therapist and logically think things through? You can't just let me be angry or have a response that shows your feelings, why? Because I have a damn good reason to be angry."

"No you do not. We made a deal that this was going to happen." She said following Nik to the door.

"Yea we did, so why are you still here? Why did you come all this way to make me feel better instead of tripping the night fantastic with lawyer boy?"

She opened her mouth but nothing came out. Why was she here? She couldn't figure it out herself. Because it didn't feel right, something inside her said. He didn't make her loose herself in desire and provoked something that she didn't think was inside her. It only felt right with one person. No, that can't be it, she berated.

"Hello, I'm still waiting." Nik said getting angrier by the minute.

"Because we are friends and I care."

"Bull shit, you came because you know that lawyer boy isn't me and will never be. He won't make you feel like I do, and hit it just right." 

Nik didn't anticipate the hard smack across his face; frankly neither did Dominique. She stared in shock at her own hand as if it hit the Queen of England out of her control. She quickly cleared her throat and looked as if she meant to do that, but Nik was heated. Something about the look she had on her face, the angry boiling inside of him, and the fact that she was here just made it so damn...sexy.

He grabbed her hands and pulled her against him, smashing his lips against hers. Dominique gasped against his lips and tried to pull away but found her body wouldn't move away; instead she moved closer. It was an animalistic feeling that bubbled inside of her that made her knees buckle. Luckily Nik held her up against him so that she wouldn't fall. This was also new for Nik, he never felt like this. He never felt this raw feeling of emotions and he wanted to ravish Dominique. It was so intense that his body was shaking. He yanked her shirt off her and did so with his own shirt. Her arms wrapped around him tightly as his lips stole her breath away. 

He couldn't believe how turned on he was or how Dominique responded to him this way. His hands were still shaking as he reached to unbutton his pants and release his manhood. Dominique didn't mind when he pushed her against the door as long as his body was still covering hers. He lifted her up against it and she wrapped her legs around his waist. She never really been into the rough stuff, but this time she was making an exception for Nik. She wanted him; she needed to taste him; just to feel that he still wants her. She didn't even realize that she was holding her breath until she felt his fingers push her underwear to the side and him thrusting his full length inside her. 

The feeling was just indescribable as her insides hugged him. Nik felt her arms tighten around him and he loved it. Her smell invaded his brain to where he couldn't focus on anything but it and her tightness. Her face stayed on his shoulder and her hot breath tickled his neck. He could hear the little moans she was making as her nails dug into his back. Dominique was in pure ecstasy as he throbbed and pulsed inside her. She never knew it could feel this good too. She was so into what he was doing inside her that she didn't notice the pain of her back scrapping on his door. She leaned her head against the door and exposed her neck to Nik. He took that time to bite down on her neck and heard Dominique, shriek.

"Oh damn!" she screamed and felt her body started to shake and quiver.

Dominique pulled him away from her face by his hair looking at him as if she was trying to decipher who he was this animal. He felt her pussy tighten around him almost making him join her, but no, he wanted this to last. This was more than about pleasure, there was principle here. He sat her down on her feet and shortly parted from her warm embrace. Dominique sigh quickly died when she saw that he was still hard. Just what he expected to do with that thing, she thought to herself and he pulled her towards the couch. Oh no, she didn't know if she could take another time. He turned her so that she has her back to him and gulped as he pulled her shirt about her head. 

"Nik, I think I should..." Dominique started.

"Shut up and take it?" he said licking the rim of her earlobe before nibbling the lobe.

Dominique shivered at the assault that Nik brought on. He pulled her skirt till it pooled on the floor. He rubbed his finger along her sensitive, slightly red pussy lips making Dominique shiver on contact. His fingers were coated in her wetness and she bucked against his fingers. Oh how she wish he would go ahead and just take her again. He took a hold of her hips, rubbing her erection up and down her lips. 

"Nik, please." She moaned.

"Please what baby." He toyed knowing exactly what she wanted.

"I want it, Nik." She whined and Nik stroked himself loving their position.

"Want what? You have to speak up baby." He whispered.

Oh, he was not doing this to her. He knew what she wanted, why was he playing with her like this. Normally she would protest this, but the need was too much. 

"Please fuck me Nik." She mewled as Nik smiled to himself.

Dominique screamed as he shoved his full length inside of her. He started to stroke inside of her slow, not a rhythm she wanted to keep. So Dominique did something she never thought she would do, she thrust back against him. Well, it's very rare that Dominique is in this position so she was going to enjoy it as much as possible. She turned her head to look back into his astonished face as he got the message to speed up. 

Oh fuck, she looked so hot, Nik thought to himself as he completely sheathed himself in and out of her warm tightness. His fingers held her hips so tight that she was for sure that she was going to have bruises in the morning but that was last thing on her mind. She just wanted to feel as much of him as she could. Nik took a hold of her hair tugging her head back towards him. She rolled her eyes in the back of her head as the sensation overtook her.

"Fuck me Nik!" she shouted and Nik couldn't believe his ears, "Oh fuck that feels so good! I want it harder!"

Now here is the little hell cat that he's been waiting on. He plunged into her mercilessly as her screams of pleasure filled the room. Truth be told, this was so good to him too. He felt like his body was leaping all over the place and yet felt like it couldn't move; like the pleasure had him motionless. He finally felt his balls tighten as Dominique body's quivered again. She was sure she was about to pass out from this one. Nik pulled her body to his as he growled in her ear. HE spilled himself inside of her as their bodies convulsed together. Dominique's head fell back against his shoulder as her body went limp. 

"Damn Dominique, I think you woke the neighbors." Nik breathed.

"I am the neighbor." She sighed and she felt his body shake with laughter as he kissed her soft lips. 

Man, she had him all twisted up in her little web. Nik wasn't sure what was going on with him, but he was starting to like it.



Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 07



Dominique's eyes flickered open and stared at the ceiling as she over heard Nik in the kitchen. What was he doing in there, she thought as she raised her heavy head. After everything that happened the night before Dominique had little energy to do much, but lay there. She had never been so thoroughly satisfied and exhausted at the same time. So, that's angry sex. At first she thought it was overrated, but now she definitely sees the upside. After their little tryst in the living room, they went back to the bed for a quick nap, then started making out like they were teenagers on a date before he ordered a pizza for them. They ate in front of the fireplace, naked and Dominique was actually shocked that she had no inhibition about being naked around him. She even turned her phone off. 

She had to move around though; she couldn't just stay around here, no matter how much she was enjoying it. She slowly pried her way out of bed and grabbed one of his shirts to put on. She didn't even bother to look into the mirror; she just went directly into the kitchen to find him in front of the stove. She giggled silently as she watched him flipping pancakes in his green lounge pants that fit nicely on his hips. Okay, enough of this watching. She tip toed over to his side and his eyes immediately met hers.

"Good morning you." He said as she sat down on the counter.

"Hey, and here you are again in the kitchen." She smiled.

"You've seen my family, us Italians cook." He shrugged and she laughed.

"Are you telling me those pancakes are homemade?"

"If you count Bisquick as homemade." He laughed and she couldn't help but laugh as well, "Have I told you how sexy you look all rumbled?"

"Plenty of times, yes." She smiled as he leaned closer and kissed her, "Don't start that again." She whispered against his lips. 

"I have no idea what you are talking about." He said still kissing her.

"Well, your mother would be very disappointed in you if you burn my breakfast." She laughed and he started laughing too.

"Alright then, what were you going to do today?"

"Finish the plans for Katrina's baby shower and then possibly talk to Jason to see where his head is at." 

Nik tensed up immediately when she mentioned his name. She was still harboring over that maniac. Nik blew out hot air narrowing his eyes at the pancake. Dominique immediately noticed the tension in his body and slid off the counter and stood behind him. She wasn't sure what to say and the only thing she could do was wrap her arms around his mid-section. She felt his body slowly loosen up at her gentle touch. She planted little kisses on his back when they heard the door. Who could that be, Nik thought to himself as he slowly moved out of her embrace. 

As soon as he opened the door, he felt a sudden soft jab on his shoulder; "You know, little brother, you have to be on alert at all time." he looked into Giovanni's smiling face. 

"What are you doing here?" Nik smiled embracing him.

"I came to see you and check out some places to stay since you want me down here." Giovanni said walking in.

As soon as Dominique confirmed that it was really Giovanni, she tried to quietly move to Nik's bedroom to hide. He already caught them in a bad situation once, no point in him catching it again. 

"Yea, that's great. I know some places around here you can look at. I was just cooking some breakfast." 

"Oh really? Well, I'm sure Dominique is enjoying that breakfast. How are you doing, Dominique?" He said and she turned around to face him. 

"Hey, I was just..."

"Save your breath. You both are grown and I already had a feeling that something was going on." 

Dominique was going to say something but thought it was best to keep her mouth shut, "Yea, well I will just put on my clothes."

"Don't get dressed on my account." Giovanni said and Dominique just shook her head as she went into the room.

He waited until Dominique shut the door, admiring the sway of her ass, "You sure know how to spoil a nice breakfast." Nik finally said.

"Apparently, I've done it before, so I'm use to it. You are going to show me some houses?"

"You are trying to get right to it, huh?"

"Well I want to establish some sort of ground when I get ready. Right now, I'm just dealing with getting money together and stepping out quietly. That's the main thing that the boss wants is for me to step out quietly and make sure that I don't get anyone coming back for me."

"Wait a minute; you think that's going to be a problem?" Nik said crossing his huge arms.

"Well, I don't think it is, but he seem to think so. I think it's more that he respects that I am getting out and he wants the transition to go smooth."

"The boss sounds real cool about losing an employee after so many years."

"Well, he told me that after so many years of being loyal and me wanting something more, he can't help but let me go." He sighed and Nik just nodded, "Don't worry little brother everything is going to be cool. You just worry about that woman in there."

"Speaking of which, I have something to talk to you about."

"Oh, so you mean you want some advice about women? You haven't asked me for any advice since you became the Italian Stallion." 

"Ha ha, very funny. I'm being serious though." Nik was about to open his mouth but that's when Dominique came in wearing what she had on yesterday.

Nik went back to the kitchen as he watched her sit at the table, "So Giovanni, what's your next step when you move here?" Dominique asked.

"Getting a job really, I just don't know what to do. I mean when you spend years doing nothing but security work, you kind of draw a blank on what's next."

"Well, what about working with your brother?"

"Um, no. I don't want to be a police officer, I will leave that to my brother and papa. I want something different, just not sure what."

"You will find out brother. You could always open a business." Nik said fixing a plate and sitting it in front of Gianni.

"I must admit, hanging around the boss made me want to own a club, but I would want something real classy and nice. A place where you can listen to good jazz music, listen to poetry, and enjoy some Italian food." Giovanni smiled.

"That's actually a pretty good idea Giovanni. I mean I would certainly go. You should look into a silent partner though, just a thought." Dominique shrugged. 

"Maybe, but everything is still up in the air. I just want to concentrate on getting a job for now and then possibly working on the club thing." Nik sat a plate in front of Dominique and sat next to her. 

"Yea, I think you may even get mom and dad to come. You know they love old school jazz, but we will get into that later. Let's eat." Nik said and everyone dived in. 

After breakfast, Dominique went back home trying not to disturb the two brothers. She had a pretty busy day, trying to finalize a couple of things for Katrina's shower and the rehearsal dinner. She sighed leaning against the door thinking back to last night. There was something so spontaneous about what they did as well as romantic. She took a deep inhale, trying to get a hold of her rapidly beating heart. Why was it reacting this way thinking about Nik? It was very welcoming but scared the crap out of her at the same time because she didn't understand why she was feeling this way for Nik but nothing came up when she thought of Jason. She sighed to herself; she needed to clear her head.

She threw herself back into work and planning. She didn't even call her friends, just spent most of her day trying to make arrangements. She called Candy to setup for them to go and pick out some food for the rehearsal dinner tomorrow. 

Everything was going up so fast and Dominique couldn't figure where her head was at. One moment she was all for going after Jason and the next she would have doubts about them being together. This wasn't suppose to go this way. She ran her nervous fingers through her hair and headed out, "Nicole, I'm about to head out for awhile." 

"Yes, ma'am, want me to sit by the phones?" 

"No, you have some tests I know you have to study for. Let's go ahead and close up the office. I'm going to take everything else home." 

"Okay, I hope everything is okay." 

"I'm fine sweetheart; just want to do some work from home if that's possible."

"Well, thank you Dominique. You want me to come in tomorrow?"

"I'm going to be so busy with the wedding and everything that I'm not going to come in."

"Seriously Dominique, are you alright?" 

"I'm just a little tired with planning and everything. I'll be alright." Nicole nodded and followed behind her. 

Dominique met up with Candy and waited patiently for the food samples. Candy was doing her usual babbling and Dominique half listened and half went into her own world. She should pay attention to Candy and make sure she is not missing important things about the wedding. 

"Dominique, are you okay?" Candy asked and Dominique finally looked at her.

"I'm fine, just have a lot on my mind."

"It's not about the wedding is it? I don't want to put too much stress on you." She said it as if she was actually concerned. 

Dominique bit down on her lip, "It's not the wedding, just other stuff like work."

"What's been going on with work?"

"Nothing serious, just not enjoying it like I use to. I don't understand why because I'm coming out with a book soon and I have plenty of clients that come to me but I don't get the same enjoyment that I use to get, it's been that way for awhile now." 

"You know before I decided to be a doctor, I use to be a secretary for a big Fortune 500 company that my dad owned. I was destined to take over the business, but one day I felt like I was in a rut and it didn't give me that same enjoyment. It was then that I realized that I did that for my father. So one day I left the company and started going to medical school."

"That's fine Candy, but I'm too far into my business to just start over."

"Why not? People do it all the time. I know lawyers that have been doing it for over ten years and then decide to go to culinary school because it makes them happy. What makes you happy?"

Dominique swallowed hard and sat back in her seat, "I'm starting to really love planning again. Every party or special occasion that my friends or aunt have put together, I planned and coordinated. When I was younger I use to plan the weddings for my dolls." They both started laughing, "I went into this career because..." she paused remembering who she was talking to, "I just thought it was convenient and whose to say that years from now that will make me happy too." 

"No one, but it's better than how you feel now . Besides, just the experience and the ride is worth it. You never know until you tried."Dominique shrugged, "Dominique, I know that you and Jason are very close and that will make us close as well. Jason cares about your well being and happiness. If this is what makes you happy, I'm sure he will be all for it."

"What if I fail?"

"You made a therapist business very successful and that's a hard business to do as well, especially getting clients." She paused, "Have you talked to Nik about it?" 

"Huh? Oh Nik." Dominique quickly recovered, "I haven't really had this conversation with him."

"Are you going to?" 

"I mean, it may be something we talk about later. You know when the time is right. We are pretty early in our relationship for us to discuss future plans."

"Ladies?" he couldn't have come at a better time, Dominique thought as he sat down the sampler plates.

"Well, I can tell you if you do decide to go into that career field, I can recommend you to a lot of people. I may not be from around here but I know people that know people." Candy smiled. Dominique smiled, "If I decide to do it, I'll keep that in mind."

They finished the rest of the sample lunch talking about the rehearsal dinner and Candy went ahead and decided to have this place serve at the wedding. Dominique thought about what she told Candy. She couldn't change her career now, she put so much time and effort into therapy, but she still didn't feel the same about it. 

She went to the restaurant and saw Katrina and Jade sitting around, laughing. Dominique promptly plopped herself at the table and they both looked at her as if she was a stranger.

"Okay, I'm guessing that something is wrong." Jade said.

"I just came back from lunch with Candy. I think I'm unhappy with my job." Dominique said.

"What? I thought you liked getting into people's business."

"That's not what I do!"Dominique pouted, "I'm starting to realize how much I really like planning parties and weddings."

"Well, we always told you that you were great at it. I know anytime I want to have any kind of party to call you." Katrina nodded.

"Do you think that I can start doing that as a career? Wedding planning and everything?"

"Dominique, we think you can do anything and we will be right there supporting you. Are you thinking about quitting?"

"I don't know anymore. I've been so confused the last couple of weeks with work, Jason, and Nik."

"What's going on with Nik and Jason; besides, that huge fight they had?"

"Well, you know that he kissed me in the office? I didn't feel anything when he did not like how I feel when Nik does it and I know what you all are thinking and it's not like that. I know that I'm meant to be with Jason."

"If you know it, then why aren't you feeling this way with Jason. Apparently hanging around Nik is making you rethink a lot of things."

"I know, that's why Nik and I can never be together. He is making me question everything that I'm so use to and I don't like that. I'm comfortable and I just want to be happy."

"Well if that's the case sweetie, why did you start off the conversation saying that you think you are unhappy with your job?" Jade asked and Dominique clamped her mouth shut.

At that moment, Nik and Giovanni walked in with Scott and James. Giovanni was the first person that came over to the table. 

"Hello ladies, let me introduce myself..." Giovanni said turning on the charm and Nik put his hand on his brother's shoulder.

"Both of them are taken." Nik assured him.

"Why the hell you invite me to stay in a town where most of the beautiful women are taken?" Giovanni said shaking his head.

"Ladies, this is my older brother Giovanni. He just came to visit and look at some places to stay." Nik said.

"Nice to meet you Giovanni, I'm Jade." Jade smiled, shaking his hand.

"Nice to meet you too Jade. You must be the one that James was talking about?"

"Oh, he talks about me?" she said casting a glance at James who only shrugged, "I guess I am. Well, are you guys hungry?"

"Starving, that's why we are here." Scott said.

"Alright, get a table and one of the waitresses will be ready." 

The guys went ahead and picked a table but Dominique grabbed Nik's hand, "Can I talk to you for a minute?" she asked.

"Sure, is everything alright?" he said and she stood up.

"Yea, let's just talk outside." She went outside and Nik followed closely behind her telling everyone that he will be right back. 

She clutched on to her purse looking down at the ground as they walked up the block. Nik could tell that something was on her mind as he looked at her fidgeting fingers. This must be something big, he thought.

"What made you go into police work?" she finally asked.

"What?" 

"What made you go into police work? Was it your dad?"

"Well, like I told you before, it was part of that, but the other part is I always wanted to help people."

"Even with the risks?"

"Believe me, I know about the risk, sometimes my dad would come home so late and he would work so much over time. I know about the bad risk, but the good out weighs the bad. I love protecting people, part of the reason I joined the military."

"So, you could see yourself doing this like ten years later and still be happy?"

He stopped in mid-step and she stopped too, "What's this about Dominique? Are you thinking about going into police work?"

"Oh no, it's just I'm wondering about me being happy doing what I do."

"So, you're having second thoughts?" She sighed and they started walking again.

"Truthfully Nik, I did get into therapy because I thought it would make my mother proud of me. Remember I told you how proud she was when my older brother got into it. I graduated at the top of my class, I got my license at a young age, and my own practice."

"Well, looks like that didn't work because she still hasn't talked to you." She quickly turned her head to him and shook her head.

"You're right. I liked doing the work but it's getting to the point where I'm ready to go as soon as I get in. I feel like if I stop doing it, people would look at me as a fraud."

"When are you going to stop doing things for other people? It seems like we have this conversation all the time. Dominique, what makes you happy?"

"Honestly? I love planning parties and weddings. When I was in college, I use to look into Public relations work and I even met a woman who did it. She had her exciting days and her not so exciting days but it was still cool. Now that was really something that I could see myself doing."

"Why didn't you do it, besides your mother?"

"I was scared. I didn't know if I would be any good at it, plus when my brother decided to go into photography, my mom went on and on about how unpredictable it was and that he needed a lot of people to know who he was. She wanted her sons to be doctors, so I figured if I became a doctor she would be proud."

"You have been doing it for years and nothing has changed. If you are unhappy doing this then it will reflect to your clients. If you think you will be happy, you know planning parties or P.R. work then do it."

"Wouldn't it be useless because I'm not in a big city where a lot of people would need me?"

"Hell, Dallas is not that far. You can do that in Dallas. You build up a client list here, if you're good word will spread and you will get plenty of business. And since I do know you, I know that you will be good." They both stopped and turned to look at each other.

"That means I will have to go back to school and start all over again."

"You can do it."

"What about...?"

"Stop questioning and just do it. As long as it's something that sounds plausible and legal, you can do it. I mean you survived medical school and everything else, you can survive this. I believe you can do it." He said grabbing a hold of her hand. 

"You really think so?" he nodded, "You know, I really appreciate that. I'm going to look into it."

"Don't look into it, do it."

"Thank you Nik."

"Now, can I get some food to eat?" He said, point his head in the direction of the restaurant.

"Well, how about you come over later tonight and help me look at some schools?"

"Oh, are you inviting me to come spend the night again?" he smiled and she just sighed.

"Yes, I am Nik. Besides, I know that you will help me. Come on, let's join everyone else." She said pulling back towards the restaurant. 

Later that night, Dominique was sitting in front of the computer on Nik's lap looking through some of the local schools. They left Giovanni in Nik's apartment which was fine with him. He didn't want to real be witness to them being all snuggly as he calls it. They weren't snuggling, they were just hanging out, Dominique thought. 

"So, I think that one would be your best bet. If you want, you can take some online classes and still work on some other stuff. You know you can gradually let the business go, that way you can really know if you are ready for this." Nik suggested.

"That's what I was thinking. I'll call the academic counselor tomorrow and ask some question. See, I told you, there was some good to you being here." She smiled.




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 07



"Ha, very funny." He said pinching her side.

She started laughing and was going to lean in to kiss him, but heard her door, "Is that your brother?" she asked.

"I don't know. I would think he would call if he needed something." He said as she got out of his lap. 

Dominique went to open the door and gasped at seeing her Aunt Crystal standing there, "Aunt Crystal, what are you doing here?" she swallowed.

"I told you that you don't visit me enough so I take it upon myself to pop up. And here is Nik again?" She said as she saw him sitting in front of the computer, "Am I interrupting something?" she smiled and Nik cleared his throat. 

"No, we were just looking up some schools."

"Schools? Nik, are you going to school?" 

"Um, no auntie, I am." Aunt Crystal looked at her.

"What?"

"I'm thinking about going back to school to change my career. I'm thinking about doing party and wedding planning, something I'm happy doing." Crystal stared at Dominique and she felt as if Crystal was going to let her have it and tell her how stupid this decision was. She knew it, she shouldn't have sprung it on her like this; she should have gradually let her know it. How would she do this if she didn't have the support of her aunt? 

Suddenly a huge smile spread across her face, "That's so great." She finally said wrapping her arms around Dominique.

"You're not mad or anything?"

"Of course not, I'm happy to hear about you finally doing something that you love. I know how you liked to do it when you were younger and how much you enjoy doing it now for your friends."

"Wow, I didn't think you would be so happy." 

"Dominique, like I told you before, your happiness is what's important to me. Now speaking of which, I got an interesting call from my brother after years of hearing nothing from him." 

"Um," Nik started bringing both women's attention to him, "should I leave you two alone?"

"No Nik, it's okay. You know about the situation." Dominique said.

"Yea, it's fine Nik, in fact from what my brother told me what happened, I'm liking you a little more." Nik cocked the corner of his lip, "He told me that you came there and confronted him about being your father and you and some guy caused a scene there."

"I had to auntie, I feel like I should say something and not let him keep thinking that I don't exist."

"He also told me that you have some way convinced his wife that you are his child and that she wants you to know more about your brothers and sister."

"What did you tell him?" Dominique asked as her aunt walked into her kitchen.

"I told him that it was about time. I mean you don't want anything from him. You are a grown woman and able to get what you want. It's time that he does acknowledge you and give you the respect you deserve. It's the same with your mother."

"She acknowledges me."

"Not like you deserve sweetheart. I have seen you work and strive to be the best. I've seen you attempt to find out who you are and I believe it's something you are still working on." She grabbed her chin, "I miss the happy go lucky little girl that wanted to make things fun and I want you to experience life. I don't want you to live someone else's, but yours and get what Dominique wants." Nik nodded and smiled to himself as he saw tears begin to form in the corner of Dominique's eyes, "If I'm able to get my nursing degree and work in a hospital while raising you, then you can finish school and create another business. You are my baby and I want the best for you."

"I know you do Aunt Crystal." Dominique sniffled.

"Now, are you ready for this new change?" she smiled and Dominique nodded, "Good girl, now when are you going to change and invite me to come over more." Nike and Dominique started laughing. 

"I guess I can definitely make some time for you to come by." Dominique said moving into the kitchen.

"I know you will, now, what do you say I invite you all out to eat. It's my first night off in awhile and I want to enjoy it."

"Well Auntie, why don't we eat here? I can put something together."

"Oh, now that will be very nice of you." Crystal smiled. 

"Nik, you might as well see if Giovanni want to come over and get something to eat too." Dominique said, looking into the refrigerator. 

"Who is Giovanni?"

"That's Nik's older brother, he came by to check on some houses." 

"Oh and I bet he is just as charming as Nik too." Crystal said walking into the kitchen.

"He maybe, but I'm definitely better looking." Nik smiled.

As soon as Nik closed the door, Aunt Crystal looked over at Dominique as she maneuvered into the kitchen, "So, I see that Nik is here."

"Aunt Crystal, don't start." 

"What? I'm just saying he has been here a lot."

"He is just a good friend and helping me with a lot of stuff." Dominique explained.

"Well a lot of couples start off as friends in the beginning."

"I know but that's not me and Nik."

"What's his favorite color?"

"He likes the color gray."

"What did he want to be when he was little?"

"He always wanted to be a cop or be like his big brother."

"What does he dream of doing?"

"Just being a police officer and possibly being a detective, what are you trying to say Auntie?"

"Well things like that are things that men tell women that have some sort of emotional ties to."

"Yea, that's why I said we are friends."

"Okay then, when was his last relationship?"

"He hasn't really been in any relationship. According to him, he has never been in love." 

"Oh really, very interesting." She smiled.

"Auntie, I know you are trying to say something."

"I can tell some things when a man looks at a woman. There is a glimmer in his eyes when he looks at you."

"What do you mean a glimmer?"

"You will see pretty soon, now start on that meal." 

Dominique looked at her with uncertainty, but just continued cooking. What was she talking about a glimmer? That is the normal glimmer that's always in Nik's eyes. There is nothing there but two good friends hanging out. 

Dominique smiled at her Auntie as she watched her look in the cabinet for something else to fix. She knew some of the struggles Crystal had to face being a single parent, but she never really appreciated her as much as she does now. Her aunt has been her rock and support system. Dominique reached over and wrapped her arms around Crystal's neck which caught her off guard. Crystal started laughing as she hugged her back. 

"What was that for?" 

"Just because, I love you so much." Dominique said.

"I love you too; now don't think that's going to get you out of cooking. Men like Nik love a home cooked meal," Crystal said as Dominique finally released her.

After dinner, Crystal and Giovanni stuck around from a little bit, just talking and playing cards. Nik kept his eyes on Dominique, feeling real comfortable with her as if he belonged there. She looked so sexy laughing and relaxing with his brother and her aunt. It just kept making him think that he couldn't wait till they got alone. When no one was paying attention, he would reach under the table and squeeze her thigh and she would run her hand up and down his thigh. 

He kept that promise as soon as Giovanni left and he carried Dominique into her bedroom. She was laughing and giggling the entire time as he set her on the bed. She pulled him towards her as they both struggled to get their clothes off. 

Tonight is was different, the passion and fire was there, but it was something else too. Nik took his time with her, kissing every part of her body softly. Dominique returned the kisses, holding on to him tight. He let her ride him and watched as the moonlight from the window bathed against her nude body as she took him in. She looked down at him with her eyes filled with promise as her nails dug into his chest. She was a goddess to him. He clasped their fingers together and moved her hands till they were above his head which made her press her body close to his. He kissed her with a renew passion as his hips thrust up to meet hers. She softly whispered his names against his lips as she felt her body start to build. He leaned his head back as his body start to tighten. He didn't know what he was feeling, but he didn't want to let it go. He didn't want to let her go. His sensual, sexual goddess. His Dominique. They crashed together with him spilling himself deep inside her. Her body was trembling against his which made him hold her tighter. 

"Wow, that was..." she breathed.

"I know." He said trying to catch his breath.

After they calm their body down, Dominique moved off him and settled right next to him. Nik held on to her and Dominique had her head on his chest, her fingers lightly running up and down his chest. Dominique's body still felt like it was tingling all over, but also so worn out. Nik was so tired that he could barely keep his eyes open. She had to admit, she was starting to have a great appreciation of having him in her bed. She almost wished that they could stay like this. 

She looked up into his half closed eyes, "You think your brother heard us?" 

"Does it matter if he did?" he breathed.

"Yes, I don't want him to think that I'm some sort of freak."

"Baby, I hate to break it to you, but you are a freak." Her mouth instantly dropped and he started laughing.

"You think you are so funny?" she said and he just shrugged.

"I just tell the truth." 

"Whatever. I guess it doesn't really matter." She said laying her head back on his chest, "I guess I have to get through this rehearsal dinner now."

"Yep, that's why we need to go to sleep so we can be fresh as a daisy." 

"Nik, do you think..." she started.

"Dominique, baby, I have an early day tomorrow and you have one too. We need to get some rest." 

He mumbled and Dominique pouted lightly. Oh well he was right, they did have a big day ahead of them and she needed to get some sort of rest, "Good night Nik." 

"Night." He mumbled.

"Sweet dreams." She said jokingly.

"Mmm hmm, love you." He breathed and Dominique's head immediately went up.

Did she hear what she thought she heard? No, it couldn't be, but what if it was? She shook him a little to wake him, but he didn't move. She shook her head and smiled. No, she didn't hear that, maybe she was more tired than she thought she was. She laid her head back down and let the rise and fall of his chest slowly lull her to sleep.

The next day, Nik rushed over to James' shop before he went in for work. He was a man on a mission, moving past everyone, not paying attention to anything around him. As soon as he got to James' office, he pushed open the door. James looked up, his face riddled in confusion thinking that something must have happened.

"I think I'm sick." Nik suddenly said.

"What do you mean? What's wrong with you?" James said with actual concern.

"I think I'm sick. I did something that I have never done before last night with Dominique."

"Man, if you enjoyed it, just say you did. It's nothing wrong with that."

Nik scrunched his face up in confusion, "What the hell you talking about?"

James opened his mouth and quickly closed it, "Whatever you talking about. What did you do?" James said clearing his throat.

"I think I told Dominique I loved her, while I was sleep." 

James chuckled lightly and quickly cleared his throat, "Are you serious?"

"I have never been more serious before in my life. She was messing with me and kept talking about sweet dreams and all that stuff. Then I just busted out and said it."

"You said I love you to her in your sleep?"

"I think I did."

"Well, what did she say?"

"I don't know. I think she tried to wake me to see if I really did say that and I pretended like I was knocked out sleep."

"Damn, are you telling me that Nik is ready to be taken off the market?"

"I'm not saying anything like that; I'm just saying that I said it and I think I'm sick now."

James put his file down, "Alright, let's see." He walked up to Nik and felt his forehead, "Do you feel kind of dizzy sometimes when you around her?"

"Sometimes." Nik nodded.

"You feel a little like you have a one track mind and your heart beats rapidly around her."

"Exactly. I'm sick right?"

"Yep, you sure are. You are love sick." James laughed going back to his chair.

"This is not a laughing matter. I could be dying."

"Man, there isn't anything wrong with you. You just got bit by the bug, enjoy it." James said kicking his feet on his desk.

"I thought it would be something that I would notice right away."

"Nik, I don't know what your conceived notion of love is, but it has been there for awhile. You are just finally admitting it. No warning or anything. Now I told you that you have been spending a lot of time with Dominique, it was bound to happen."

Nik sat down slowly in the chair opposite James, "Are you serious? Am I in love for real?"

"I can't really tell you man. I just know the symptoms; only you can tell if you really are."

"It just can't be. I'm the Italian Stallion; I just don't 'oops I fell in love'." 

"Well, how do you really feel about Dominique?"

"Okay, I can answer that. She is exciting and mysterious."

James immediately cut him off, "I didn't say what she is, I said how do you feel about her."

Nik didn't know there was a difference, "Well, I feel warm inside around her. She makes me feel like I'm important and the only man in the room. She can stand toe to toe with me when it comes to us arguing and it excites me that she is not one to back down. She makes me feel warm and loved... Oh shit, I am in love." Nik said hitting his head against his hand. 

"It happens to the best of us."

"Easy for you to say, the girl I'm in love with is convinced that she is in love with her best friend."

"I'm pretty sure that's something that you can fix. Just tell her how you feel and everything will be okay."

Easier said than done, Nik thought to himself as he set back in his seat. How was he going to break this to her? James was right though, he needed to tell her. At least to let her know how he feels and then let her make the right decision. 

That night, Dominique had everything setup at the party and watched as everyone was mingling and enjoying themselves. Dominique missed most of the rehearsal dinner trying to get everything together for tonight. Even though it was a lot of hard work, she was so proud of herself. 

Everyone was enjoying themselves and the food, but Dominique kept having a nagging feeling eating away at her. Where was Nik? He hasn't returned any of her calls or showed up yet. That was so unlike him. She hoped nothing happened to him, she didn't know what she would do if...

"Dominique," she was zapped out of her worried trance as Jason appeared behind her, "hey, you have been kind of spaced out."

"I know. I'm looking for Nik, he hasn't showed up yet."

"Is he still mad after everything that happened the other day?"

"No, we talked about it and he is okay. He hasn't answered my calls or anything and it's unlike him."

"I'm sure he is okay." He paused and licked his lips in uncertainty, "I want to make sure everything is okay with us too."

"Jason, I don't really want to talk about that."

"Well, we need to. I need to explain what happened." Dominique sighed and turned her full attention to Jason, "I'm sorry about what happened. I don't know what came over me." 

"Jason, it's forgotten." 

"No seriously..."he paused, "Oh, it's forgotten?"

"I'm just wondering why. Jason, you are about to get married and here you are kissing me."

"I can't explain it. I think I just enjoyed talking to you and everything felt so right between us." Dominique bit down on her bottom lip.

"Jason, I know that everything was moving so fast for you. Are you sure that you are ready for this next step?"

"I am, I went and did some soul searching and I am absolutely ready to marry Candi." Dominique sighed, "Good, I'm glad." Strangely, she was glad and at that same time she felt guilty.

"Jason, I have something to tell you." She was going to open her mouth but she felt a pair of arms around her waist.

"Hey, baby." She instantly recognized Nik's voice, "What's going on?" Nik narrowed his eyes at Jason.

"Nothing. There isn't anything going on here. We are just talking." Jason smiled.

"Nik, it's okay." Dominique said turning in his embrace and planting a small kiss on his cheek.

"Well, you missing your party, aren't you man?" Nik warned, giving Jason an icy stare.

"Yea, well I guess I should get back." Jason said going inside.

Dominique stared up at Nik, "What was that?" she said.

"What, just doing that whole possessive man thing." He smiled, "Is there something going on?"

"No, but why are you late?" she wrapped her arms around his neck.

"I had some things that I had to figure out and pick out a very fly suit." He pulled away from her and did a couple of GQ poses, "You like?" Dominique couldn't help but start laughing.

"I definitely do like. You look like you belong on Italian Vogue. Now, let's go into the party and have fun."

"Wait, I have to talk to you about something and I'm sorry about breaking it to you here, but I can't really wait any longer."

Dominique gasped, backing away slight, "Is everything okay? Is something wrong with you? You know I will help you whatever it may be."

"No, no, I'm fine and you saying that only makes me more sure of what I already know."

"What's the matter Nik?" 

Dominique has never really seen Nik so serious, besides the fight that him and Jason had, he has always been kind of cool and carefree. Nik took a deep breath and realized that his palms were sweating, damn was it really going to be this hard? He rehearsed it plenty of times in his head and finally came across the right thing to say, but with her finally staring back at him, he was getting speechless. There was only one phrase that came to his mind.

"Dominique, I l-lo-lo-lo-lo." He stammered and cleared his throat.

"You what?" 

"Okay, give me a moment." He let out a long sigh, "I lo-lo you." 

"You low me?" 

"No, damn it, why can't I say it?" he whispered.

"Okay Nik, I know all about this, you are feeling pressured and you want to release something. I want you to take a deep breath, think about you saying it in your head and it will come naturally. Just let it flow and you will feel this whole weight off your shoulders and..."

"I love you, Dominique." He suddenly said. Dominique's mouth hung open as she stared back at him expecting him to say ha ha, I was just joking. Nik waited and just listened to the crickets outside. Okay, what the hell? This isn't what he expected. His body was so tense that he felt like he could shatter. She closed her mouth and opened it to say something but closed it again. What the hell could she say?

"What did you say?" it was now her turn to stammered.

"I need to repeat myself? Okay then." He cleared his throat, "I love you Dominique." 

"Oh, wow, that's quite a shock. Are you sure about that?" she said before stopping herself. He chuckled lightly, "I'm very sure." Dominique's throat was dry and she couldn't do anything but walk past him. Wait a minute; she wasn't supposed to walk away. 

"Dominique, where the hell are you going?" Nik said catching up with her and grabbing her arm.

"You weren't suppose to fall in love with me."

"Well damn sorry." He said sarcastically and Dominique just sighed loudly ready to walk off, "Dominique, hold on damn it. I'm laying everything on the line. I love you and I want to be with you."

"But why? Why me?"

He chuckled, "Why not you? Baby, you have made me feel more of a man than I ever felt before. You have done so much for me and I love the fact that with me, I know how sexual and mysterious you are with me. I feel like I want to help you and see you through your journey of being in a new career. I want to be there for you. Tu sei il sole del mio giorno. I really love you."




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 07



She heard what he was saying, she just wasn't sure if it was meant for her. It wasn't supposed to be this way. This was supposed to be Jason, but she just clearly told Jason to marry Candy. 

Now here was Nik telling her that he loved her and wanted to be with her. Why did she feel like she wanted to fall into his embrace and just scream yes? Something was holding her back, though. There was so much deception that this started on and she wasn't sure she was meant for this. 

"Damn Dominique, I'm not asking a hard question. You have me over here sweating bullets." 

"I'm sorry, it's just I don't know."

"Don't know what? You don't know if you love me too?" she looked off couldn't bare to look into those emotion filled green eyes. She never seen him look so vulnerable, "Dominique, I know that you feel like you should be with Jason, but baby I've been right here for you. You and I have spent more time together than you have with Jason and you are telling me that you want to be with him? You can't tell me that after everything that we've done, that you don't feel anything for me." 

She swallowed hard, "You're right, I can't tell you that I don't feel anything for you. It's just with everything that's going on, I don't know if I'm ready for this yet." 

As soon as the words left her mouth, the light diminished from his eyes. That special spark that was always there was fading. His stance dropped a little and he looked everywhere but at Dominique.

"Wow, this is how it feel , huh." Nik said feeling his body cringe.

Dominique lower lip began to quiver as she looked into his defeated face, "Nik I told you, it's not that I don't feel anything for you. I don't know if I'm ready yet."

"But you were ready with Jason, so it's me?" She shook her head vigorously.

"No, no please don't think that."

"It's cool Dominique really. You know how I am I will bounce back." He put on a fake smile but swallowed hard, "I do love you. I really do and I hope you soon will realize that you love me too before it's too late."

Too late? For some reason hearing those word chilled Dominique. Before it was too late? What was going to happen? Her mind played those words over and over again. She bit down on her bottom lip and saw Candy peeking her head outside.

"Hey, we are starting the toast. You two want to come in? She stood there waiting in silence. She looked between the both of them and saw the tension between them both. 

"Yea, we better go in, baby." Nik suddenly said, making Dominique's eyes focus back on him. 

Nik squeezed by Candy and walked inside joining the rest of the party, "Are you guys okay?" Candi asked as soon as Nik was out of ear shot. 

"Yea, we are okay, but you shouldn't be worried about us." Dominique mustered all her strength to plant a smile on her face, "You have a party to entertain." She said pulling Candi back inside. 

She would just have to deal with Nik later, but she knew pretending to be girlfriend and boyfriend throughout this party was going to be hard for the both of them. Her body yearned for his touch, but she couldn't make a hasty decision about this. Especially when she thinks about everything that has happened in her family. 

She barely listened as friends and family rambled on and on about how Candi and Jason were going to live a long life together. It all sounded like gibberish to her at this point, she couldn't stop thinking back to the look on Nik's face. 

"Can I say a couple of things?" she knew that voice. She looked up and saw Nik holding the mike, what was he doing? 

She swallowed hard saying a little prayer to herself that he wouldn't say anything to embarrass her; no he wouldn't, not Nik. At least she hoped.

"I just want to wish you guys the best of luck on your new journey. It's amazing when you found that one that makes your heart beat faster every time she comes into the room or makes you feel like Superman when you are feeling low. I just hope that my girl and I get there one day. I want to leave you with something that my dad always say, 'Quando amate qualcuno esso e come l'oceano, esso puo essere calma, puo essere intense, ma allo stesso tempo puo essere bella, ampia e degno esplorare. Now for you non-Italian folks," the crowd chuckled a little as he planted his eyes between the couple and Dominique, "When you love someone it is like the ocean, it can be calm, it can be hectic, but at the same time it can be beautiful, vast, and worth exploring." Dominique's heart leaped in her chest as those emerald eyes filled with promise settled on her. 

He quickly turned back to the couple. "A toast to Jason and Candy." He said lifting his glass and everyone in the party followed, except Dominique. 

She swallowed and followed along with everyone else, "Salute." She murmured.



Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 08



Finale

"I can't believe this shit." Nik said downing his beer in one gulp. 

James and Scott just stared at Nik as he ordered his fourth beer, "You think you want to slow down a little?" James asked.

"No, I'm good, just hanging out with my boys and enjoying some beer." Nik said patting their backs. 

"And we are enjoying you too and you have 30 more minutes to enjoy us before I have to go home." Scott reminded.

"I can't believe this man. You guys are just going to leave me in my time of need?"

"One, we are here for you through anything, but lately we have been spending every night here after you admitted to Dominique how you felt." James said ordering himself a beer.

"I just can't believe she turned me down. I'm Nik, the Italian Stallion and she turned me down?"

"Look Nik, I understand that it..." Scott started.

"No you don't man. I thought everything that I was feeling for her she felt too. All that time and everything that we did together meant nothing to her? I know she's the one and I can't imagine being with anyone else, but she just rejected me for someone that can't even appreciate her like I can. Now I'm sitting her sounding all pussy whipped."

"You are, but sometimes that happens when you are in love." James shrugged, "Even though I'm the hard ass that I'm always am, I know Jade has me wrapped around her pretty little fingers. You laid your cards on the table Nik. That's what you are suppose to do. The rest is up to Dominique, she will come around."

Nik shook his head wanting to believe what James said, but every time he went home, he felt a twinge of pain looking at her door. He wished he could just walk in like normal and they have their playful banter or they would cuddle up with a good scary movie. But he couldn't now. He still had her scent in his sheets and then knowing what they did everywhere in his apartment was the hardest part of going home. He shook his head as he thought back to what James said. The rest was up to Dominique. He just hoped she makes the right decision and fast. 

Dominique had to keep herself busy so she wouldn't think about him. She has done a pretty good job of it this past week. She registered for school, helped some clients find other therapists, finished planning Katrina's shower, and finalized everything for Jason's wedding. She was a little tired but she couldn't run into or think about Nik. Sometimes it worked, other times she found herself crying randomly. At that moment, her body shivered thinking about him. 

"No, I have to prepare the vegetables for the tray. Right!" she smiled moving to the refrigerator. 

She grabbed a couple of celery stalks and carrots trying to keep it together. Jade was already in the restaurant. They hadn't talked much since; she figured she was mad at her too. Well it didn't matter, she was angrier at herself, but she couldn't harbor on that. Not when there was so much to do.

She began slicing the celery trying to get a hold of her racing heart that was intensifying so much that she could hear it. Why was she reacting this way? It's been over two weeks. Two weeks to get over it. Two weeks to move on. Two weeks to miss his calloused fingers running up and down her body.

"Damn it!" Dominique screamed not able to hold the flood gates any more. 

She looked down at her handy work and realized instead of slicing the celery, she was dicing it. She tried so hard to pull it together, but she couldn't hold it in. Jade came in and immediately noticed Dominique's red puffy eyes.

"I messed up the celery." Dominique sobbed. 

"Well sweetie, that's certainly something we can replace, but I get the feeling that's not why you are crying." Dominique could only shake her head as Jade pulled her to a chair, "What's up?"

"I have been crying almost everyday at home, sometimes at work. There are some days where I can hold it together but I can't anymore." Dominique paused as Jade placed her hand on top of Dominique's, "Why did he have to fall in love with me?" 

"You're asking why he fell in love with you?" Jade questioned with her eyebrows raised.

"I mean everything was so much better before. I can't have him fall for me."

"Why not? What's so scary about him loving you?"

"Because..." Dominique took a deep breath, "I think I'm in love with him too."

Jade smiled and patted her hand, "I already knew that; my question is why you waited so long to admit it."

"I don't know. I think I'm a little scared, plus how can I start this with him and it was built on so many lies."

"It wasn't built on too many lies. It's just that through everything that was going on, you two fell in love with each other."

"What if I'm not enough or ready for this? What if I end up messing this up or he just leaves me?"

Jade paused for a moment as she noticed that 

Dominique couldn't look into her eyes, "Dominique, the same thing that happened to your mother is not going to happen to you. You are not your mother. No matter how much you think you are, you are not her. You will not end up like her because Nik isn't like that."

Dominique bit down on her bottom lip and swallowed hard, "I'm scared." She finally admitted taking a deep breath, "I'm scared of these feelings that I have and where this is going to go. I mean I'm scared because I don't know. Besides you guys, Nik is the only person that allows me to be myself and make me feel instead of over think it." Her voice quivered. 

"Sometimes that's the fun part. If you would have asked me three years ago if I would fall for a guy like James, I would tell you hell no, but I can't imagine my life without him. You know how you feel about Nik and you shouldn't try to hide it. If you don't give him a chance you are going to always wonder what could have happened. Nik loves you for you and you never had to do anything extra for him to fall. I do think there are a couple of doors you need to close in order to have a happy relationship with him though." Dominique nodded. 

Dominique nodded and took a deep breath. She knew what Jade was telling her was right. She needed to stop denying her feelings for him. She wanted to give it a try with Nik. She was entering a new stage and she wanted nothing better than to start everything with Nik. Dominique was going to thank Jade when she saw something glimmering on her finger. 

"Is that what I think it is?" Dominique asked pointing to it.

Jade looked down, "Oh this little thing. It's nothing but a little ring that James gave me." 

"Congratulations! When did he proposed?" she said hugging her.

"Yesterday, James came over for lunch and we were eating in my office. We were just talking normal, nothing special. He passed me this envelope and he asked me if I could check what's in there and see if everything looks okay. When I opened it, there was this little beauty here. I looked up at him and he was just casually looking at me. He didn't say anything for awhile and I was scared he was just going to say something like 'hey you want to marry me', but he surprised me. He leaned in close to me and told me that he never thought that he would be right here again, but he knew that right now it was right and he knew that he had to go through what he did to be the man that was right for me. Then he popped the question, of course I said yes." Jade said beaming from ear to ear.

"Did you ever think that he wouldn't?"

"I thought for awhile he wouldn't just because of everything that he went through with that evil woman, but I knew in my heart he was waiting for when he was ready."

"I guess sometimes there can be happy endings, huh?" Dominique smiled.

"You bet and I'm pretty sure you can find yours and stop comparing it to everyone else." Dominique nodded as she looked off to the side thinking about what Jade just said, "Now, let's get past this baby shower." 

Dominique was more than ready; all the planning that she has been doing for Katrina and she couldn't wait to see her face. She kept thinking about what Jade said and what she has been fighting for so long. She did want to break free and be herself. That's all her friends ever want her to be. That's all Nik wanted her to be. So why has she been pretending to be someone else? 

The party went by in a blur so far as Dominique was concerned. She knew what she had to do to get what she wanted. She had to let go. 

After cleaning up the party, Dominique headed to Jason's place. That's the first place she wanted to start. It was going to be easier than her next two stops; at least that's what she thought. She took a deep breath before knocking on the door. She stepped back slightly once Candy swung the door open.

"Dominique, what are you doing here?"

"I just came to talk to Jason a little bit."

"Oh, is everything okay?" Candy said with a look of concern.

"Yea, just want to talk to him about some stuff." Candy let Dominique in and sighed as she saw Jason playing his video games.

"Yea, I know what you are thinking. He still hasn't grown out of that." Candy whispered.

"I'm in the room, so I heard you." He said still keeping his eyes glued to the television.

Candy smiled shaking her head, "Anyway, we were getting ready to pick up some of my family from the airport."

"Oh, if this is a bad time then I can come back." Dominique said.

"No, you look like you have something important to say. I'll go pick them up. Baby, I'll call you on where to meet us for dinner." She said walking over to him and giving him a kiss, "Love you."

"I'll see you in a bit baby." He called out.

Dominique waited till they were alone to sit next to him. He glanced her way and saw the seriousness in her eyes. He immediately turned off the game and sat back giving her his full attention.

"So, what's up? You look kind of down." He said.

"Not down, just thinking of some heavy stuff. Actually there is something I have to tell you."

"Does it concern Nik?" he asked and her head immediately snapped up to him.

"Why would you think that?"

"I don't know something about the rehearsal dinner, it kind of felt funny. Is everything alright between you two?" 

She looked down at her hands. She couldn't figure out where to start. She determined it was best to start off at the beginning. She pushed off the couch and looked down at him, gathering up all the courage in her.

"You know I thought I was in love with you, for so long. When we were growing up, you were like my knight in shining armor. I thought that when you called me, you were going to finally tell me that you felt the same way for me. When you told me that you engaged, it crushed me." She ended with a light chuckle.

Jason shook his head as if trying to shake off what she just said, "Dominique, I didn't know that you felt that deep for me, but what about Nik?"

"Yeah about that; Nik agreed to pretend to be my boyfriend only to make you jealous and make you realize that you love me after all. I felt real bad about it, but I thought this was the way to get you and I'm so sorry for lying to you. You didn't deserve that." She tried to read his face but it was just blank, so she continued, "I know I planned the wedding even though I had these feelings for you, but I didn't mean for anyone to get hurt."

"Besides my face, who else got hurt?" he said with a little venom in his voice.

She swallowed hard, she deserved that, "Nik." His eyebrows wrinkled in confusion, "The night of the rehearsal dinner, he admitted that he was in love with me and that he wanted to be with me. I couldn't say it at the time."

"It wasn't because of me, was it?" Jason said pushing off the couch.

"No, maybe a little but it was more because I was scared. I don't know if I'm capable of loving him like that." She ended in a sob, "I'm sorry. I don't even know why I'm crying, but I've been like this for the past couple of weeks."

"Because your heart is hurting." He said softly, "You hurt someone that you really love. 

Trust me, I know that feeling all too well." Now it was Dominique's turn to look confused, "That day that I kissed you, I went back to Candy and told her that I wasn't sure about rushing into getting married. She tried to get out of me what the problem was and for a moment, I thought I was in love with you." Jason stuffed his hands in his pocket, "She said she was going to go back home until I figure out what I wanted. The moment those words came out of her mouth, it was like something came over me and I didn't want to imagine my life without her. I begged her to take me back and her forgiveness."

Dominique nodded, "I see that now. I see how much you love her and she does fit you perfectly. I was so stupid to make you have any doubts."

"Those doubts I had Dominique didn't come from you, but from my own insecurities. You know just like I do that we both didn't come from a cookie cutter family. I never had a father to show me how to treat a woman and to be man. I have been a very successful lawyer, but I never had anyone that challenged me to take on responsibilities."

"Yea, I had a client like you a couple years ago." She nodded and Jason couldn't help but chuckle.

"I love Candy, just as much as I know you love Nik. He makes you different and I see it. He makes you laugh and you have fun with him. Not to mention I see how he looks at you. He was probably in love with you before he knew it."

"Wow, I didn't think of it that way." She said wiping the tears from her face.

"So why are two people who are as smart as us, messing up good things in our lives?" 

"I don't know, I'm wondering that myself now." 

She looked down before she continued on with what she really wanted to know, "So, are we cool?" 

He laughed, "I could never stay mad at you for long." He grabbed her hand and pull her close into a nice bear hug, "You are my mini." He said calling her the nickname he gave her as a child, "I'm always going to be your best friend."

"And I'm always going to be yours. I'm so sorry." She said wrapping her arms around his waist.

"Actually, I'm kind of flattered. I didn't think you held me in such high regards." He smirked and she punched his chest.

"Don't push your luck." She said and they both started laughing as his phone went off.

"Well, that's my future wife, I better go meet up for dinner."

"Yea and I have some things I have to do too. I guess I'll see you on the big day." Dominique smiled.

"Yep and I better see Nik there with you." He smiled and she nodded.

If only he will take her back after everything that happened between them. As she headed to her apartments, she paused at his door. What was he doing right now? Was he thinking of her or was he on a date with another girl? The thought of him with another girl made her want to kick the door down and inspect the place, but she thought the better of that. She shook her head and sighed. She just had to see. She walked to the door and knocked on it. She waited for him to swing the door open so she could fall into his arms and kiss him all over. She wanted to take back everything she said and release her heart to him. She knocked again as a smile crossed her lips as she thought about how he would probably take her in front of the fireplace just like he did the other day. She gave another impatient knock but nothing. He was probably gone or worse saw it was her and didn't want to open the door. No, that wasn't in his nature. 

She sighed in defeat and went to her own apartment. Tomorrow, she will try again tomorrow. She would just have to wait till he wants to listen, she thought as she made her way into her own apartment. 

Nik swung open the door looking around outside. He could have sworn he heard someone knocking on the door. He shook his head as he closed the door. He sighed to himself as he leaned his head against the door. He thought for a moment it was Dominique. 

The next day, Dominique got an early start and put on her yellow sundress with gladiator sandals. She had to mentally get herself ready for her last stop. She drove all the way to her mom's house and pulled up in front. She was bound and determine for this one. She had so much that she wanted to get off her chest. 

"Dominique, how are you doing darling?" Sun said enveloping her in a big hug.

"I'm good. I'm finally thinking clear." He looked at her not able to hide his confusion, "Is my mom here?"

"Yea, she is upstairs in her sewing room." 

"I'll go see her." She was about to head upstairs when she turned back to him, "Thank you so much, Sun for being that father figure that I needed. I will never forget how you would always take time out of your schedule to be at anything that I was participating in and I love you for that." 

After saying that a huge grin spread over his face and he nodded.

"It was my pleasure, Dominique. You were my daughter as well, no matter what." She gave him a kiss on his cheek and set her sights upstairs. 

She moved in a daze as a million thoughts of how this was going to play out repeated in her head. 

She didn't want to attack her, but she needed for her to know everything. She needed her to acknowledge her. Dominique found herself in front of the door with her thoughts still running wild. Well, it was now or never. She opened the door and saw her sitting in front of the sewing machine holding up a light blue fabric. She turned towards Dominique and quickly turned her attention to the fabric. With that little dismissal she gave her, Dominique was ready now. 

"Hello mom. I came to talk to you." She sat her purse down at the closest table, "You know for years the only thing I wanted was for you to accept me and love me. You don't know how it feels to be a child and know her mother doesn't love her." She walked over to the window in front of her, "I tried everything to be the daughter that you wanted. I went into a career that I thought would make you happy, especially after the big fuss you made when Eiji became a therapist. I based my life around you, wanting you to notice me. I realize now I put everything on hold just to please you. I stopped doing what I love to make you happy; well you know what I'm tired of it. I'm tired of pleasing everyone else and not doing anything for myself. I can't even really blame you for that because I allowed you to do it. I was afraid to love." Dominique stared straight at her, but her mother didn't waver, "I can see that it hurts to look at me because I look like him. I actually met him and he denied me to my face, no matter how much his wife tried to convince him otherwise. You know I can forget him, but I gave you a chance because you were here. Now I see you were here in body but I wanted a mother. I wanted you!" She nearly shouted as she felt the tears stinging her eyes, "You know that's okay. As of this moment, I'm not doing that anymore and I'm not going to be scared anymore. I almost missed out on a chance to have someone love me because of his race. I thought the same thing that happened to you would happen to me. I'm not going to live in fear anymore." The deafening silence filled the room and for the first time Dominique felt the anger boiling over as her mother sat there with her face blank, "Look at me when I'm talking to you!" she shouted and the shrill volume in Dominique's voice finally had their eyes meeting, "I'm going to do what I want for myself. I'm going to love hard and allow myself to be loved. I'm not going to try to get your acceptance anymore. It's not fair to me. I'm going to be happy with him, if he takes me back." She chuckled as she wiped face, "You can continue hating me if you want because I'm done." 

Dominique said and was heading to the door.

She grabbed her purse and put her hand on the door, vowing to make this the last time she would ever come here, but then something stopped her cold.

"I never said I hated you." A strained heavy accent voice filled the room and Dominique's breath caught in her throat. 




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor Ch. 08



Did that just come from her? Did she finally speak to her? No, she couldn't have, she was just tired. She wanted to let it go, but a part of her nagged her to ask.

"What?" she finally said surprised by how her voice quivered.

She didn't say anything and Dominique sighed. She knew she was hearing things, wishful thinking. She turned back to the door and she heard her again.

"I never said I hated you." She turned to see her slowly pushing out of her chair and looking at Dominique, "I could never hate you." 

She was talking! She was actually talking to her! Dominique put a hand over her heart and felt just how hard it was beating. They stood in silence for awhile, just staring at each other.

"You have a funny way of showing it." Dominique finally said.

"Listening to you just made me realize just how selfish I have been. Kaiyo, there has been so much stuff that I have dealt with and I do know that I took part of it out on you. I fell in love with a man that I thought could love me. I was stupid enough to think about leaving my husband and starting a new life. When he never came back for me, I got so depressed and felt so ashamed for allowing myself to give up so much for him. I thought I was in love, but I admit in the beginning I did take a lot of my anger out on you by not talking to you. Then one day when you were here, I watched you sleep and you were so beautiful to me. I felt the shame over again because of how I treated you in the beginning." 

Dominique pressed her back against the door as her mother walked closer to her, "There's really no excuse for my behavior, because I should have been a better mother to you. I shouldn't let my shame get in the way of you feeling loved. I watched and took pictures of everything that you have accomplished and I pray that you do find out what you want to do, be who you want to be, and be with whoever you want to be with. I can only hope that you forgive me. Please forgive me."

Dominique stared at her the entire time wondering if this was real. Was she really talking to her like this? A piece of Dominique wanted to wrap her arms around her mother and tell her of course I forgive you but the other part didn't want to let go of the little girl that had been hurt for so long. No, she wouldn't invite her back with open arms but she wasn't going to hold any grudges. 

"I forgive you." Dominique mumbled as she felt like a boulder was finally lifted off her shoulders.

And for the first time, she really did forgive her. It wasn't about the fact that she tried too hard to get her attention or what she said to Dominique. She had to forgive her so Dominique can move on with her life. Her mother swallowed hard and nodded taking Dominique's hand. 

"Now, I know that we would have to start off slow and I understand that. So, you can ask me any question you want."

"Have you talked to my father since he left?" Dominique asked.

She sighed, "He called me about three weeks ago a little bit after you visited him I guess. I don't know what happened after Sun took the phone when he started yelling at me. He was upset that you did come over, but I didn't care. In a way I was glad that you did see him." Dominique nodded, "Again I'm so sorry, Kaiyo. I want you to know that I do love you very much and I want you to be happy 

"I forgive you." Dominique said and she could tell that her mother wanted to wrap her arms around her, but something was holding her back, "It's alright, you can hug me." Dominique smiled and she did just that. 

She held on to Dominique tighter than she would expect from her small stature mother. When Dominique returned the embrace, that's when she felt her body tremble and heard her muffled sobs. She was crying? She was crying on Dominique as she hugged her. Dominique felt like a piece of her was starting to weld together. 

"It's okay." Dominique comforted. 

Dominique still couldn't believe what was going on here, even after leaving her mom's house she was still in awe. She actually apologized for everything that she done. Now was the chance for them to really work on their relationship and the great thing about it was that Dominique didn't have to try so hard like she always did, but she came around on her own just like everyone said. Her mother wanted her to stay a little bit longer but Dominique had to go finish her last bit of business. 

She headed over to Katrina's to check on her, since Scott was going to be working all night on a case. Dominique was itching to go home and beat on Nik's door, but she also didn't like the thought of Katrina being alone so close to her date. She wanted to tell him at the right time when they were back at home and able to celebrate. She smiled to herself as she thought about what they were going to do.

She finally made it to Katrina's new place and she greeted her at the door with a hug, "Hey girly, how is it going?" she asked.

"Not as good as you. You look like you are about to bust any moment." Dominique smiled.

"Oh I know. I have been having contractions all day." She said as they walked back to the living room.

"Are you okay? " Dominique immediately asked and Katrina chuckled.

"Oh girl I'm fine. I have everyone on stand by and everything is okay so far as that goes. How are you doing?" she said as she plopped down on the couch.

"You won't believe what just happened. My mom apologized to me."

Katrina's eyes flew open, "You mean she actually talked to you?"

"Yep, she told me she was sorry and that she didn't mean to treat me the way she did. It was amazing Katrina." Dominique said shaking her head still in disbelief.

"Wow, that's really good girl. I told you she will come around soon."

"I know. It may have taken me going off on her but she finally did and she told me she loved me."

"I knew she always did. So, what about your other issue?"

"I'm guessing you talking about Nik?" Katrina nodded, "I'm going to handle that situation too. I'm going to tell him today how I feel. I don't know if he will take me back but I have to try."

"Feelings like what you two have won't just go away. Trust me, once everything happens, you two will be together, then you will be in the same situation that I'm in." she said massaging her stomach.

"You are trying to get me pregnant already?" Dominique joked and Katrina started laughing as she grabbed her phone.

"Hey Dominique, you think you can go upstairs and grab my blanket off the bed." Dominique shrugged and went upstairs. 

She was heading back down stairs when she heard the doorbell. It must be her mom or Ricky. He was getting ready to move out of town because of a new job at a school. He was trying to at least stick around enough to see his little niece or nephew. Dominique got downstairs and stopped at the bottom when she heard his voice.

"Katrina, what are you up to? I know Dominique's car is out there." She heard the familiar voice say. 

"I don't know what you are talking about." Katrina shook her head playing dumb as Dominique finally revealed her presences, "Oh look Dominique's here. I didn't know you were upstairs." Katrina smiled.

"May I add you are horrible at this?" Nik said looking at her.

"Oh give me a break, I'm pregnant. Now you two, talk." She said walking back into the living room. 

They stood in silence for awhile. Nik tried to look everywhere but her and she kept her eyes on him. He hadn't shaved in a few days, she thought noticing the bit of stubble on his face. It's a new look but it actually fits him. He still looked as sexy as he always did. She wrapped her arms around her body trying to think of how to start this.

"I don't hear talking!" they heard from the living room and they both chuckled. 

"I didn't know that she was doing this, for the record." She said and Nik nodded.

"I should have known better since she said it was very important that I get over here. I thought it was just pregnant talk." Then they were silent again, "So, how are you doing, kid?" 

"I've been okay. How about you?"

"Cant complain, been hard at work. "she nodded as she fidgeted with her fingers.

"Me too, I've been working on school stuff and getting prepared. I have enough to where I'm going to stop cold turkey and jump right into it."

"So, no therapy work at all?" she shook her head, "It's a risk." He warned.

"Someone told me I should take risks every once in awhile."

"So you are starting to listen to me?"

"I've always listened to you. You have been the main reason that I decided to go ahead and do this. I wanted to talk about that night and what you said."

"I don't really want to Dominique." He said shifting from foot to foot.

"It's important that you understand."

"Understand what, that you would rather waste your time on someone that you not even sure that you love but just want to be with because you two are use to each other. Or no, is it the black thing which I'm still having trouble wrapping my head around." He said shaking his head.

"It isn't just that. I know I gave you those excuses in the beginning but it was just me overanalyzing everything."

"You think I'm not a bit scared about how I'm feeling. This is a bit new for me too. I already told you I have never really fallen in love with anyone."

"Well then how do you know that you are in love with me?"

"I told you Dominique, you are the last thing I think of before I go to sleep and the first thing I think about when I wake up. You don't know how you have made me felt, like I can be something different than what other people make me out to be."

Dominique was about to say something but Katrina walked in, "Um I'm going to interrupt a bit because I'm not feeling any love in here and I think I'm about to have the baby."

"What?" they both said in unison.

"Yep, I think it's time so can we hurry this up please." Katrina said starting her breathing.

"Oh shit, um let's get her to my car." Dominique said.

"No, I have the cop car. We can use the sirens to get her there quicker." 

"I don't care whose car we use just get me to the hospital and call my husband." Katrina growled through gritted teeth. 

Dominique and Nik helped Katrina to the car and she jumped in the back seat laying Katrina's head on her lap. Dominique immediately called Scott as soon as Nik took off letting the sirens go at full blast. 

"What hospital are we taking you?"Nik asked.

"Grady's hospital, please hurry Nik." Katrina cried out.

"What's going on now?" Scott screamed into the phone.

"We are on the way to the hospital Scott, just meet us there. Everything is okay."

"No everything is not okay! I'm in pain and he is not here!" Katrina shouted and snatched the phone from Dominique, "Scott get your lily ass to the hospital now!" and she tossed the phone back to Dominique.

"Um, see you soon." Was all Dominique could come up with and disconnected the call.

"Now you two talk." Katrina demanded.

"We currently have a direr situation Katrina, like you having a baby." Nik said.

"If you talk it keeps my mind off the pain now talk, damn it!" 

"Um, I didn't mean what I said the other day Nik. I know it sounded stupid and didn't make any sense but I was scared." Dominique finally said.

"Scared of what?"

"Scared of what could possibly happen between us. I was scared to let you know how I really feel about you and I was even more scared of what may happen if we happened."

"Why are you so scared of me? I've never done anything for you to be scared of."

"It's not just you, it was everything that came with you. Whoa, I think her water just broke." Dominique said looking down

"Aww, damn I have top clean that now."

"Please say we are almost there?" Katrina breathed.

"We are almost there sweetheart, just keep breathing and don't focus on the pain." Dominique said.

"Oh I want to push so bad, can you two speed up this make up session or do something?"

"This is kind of the wrong moment and a private thing Katrina, let's..." Nik said.

"DAMN IT, you love her, she love you. Will you both stop dragging out all this drama and get to making up!?" she growled and they both just looked at each other briefly. 

"Look, we here." Nik said pulling up to the front and shutting off the sirens.

He ran inside as Dominique tried to keep Katrina calm, "Look it will be okay. I just need you to hold on a little bit longer." She said smoothing her hair out of her face.

"Dominique will you stop being such a chicken shit and tell the man you love him. Nothing will happen besides you will be together, get married and end up like me."

"That's not real comforting right now." Dominique said with a worried expression.

"You know what I mean. He's a good guy and you are a great girl. You two deserve each other and I need his Italian ass to get back here with doctors!" 

As soon as those words escaped her lips, a team of nurses rushed out to the car and helped her out of the car. Dominique followed right behind them as another car pulled right behind Nik's. Scott rushed out barely shutting off the car running to her side.

"I'm here baby." He quickly said.

"About time, my water broke, I'm having your baby, and I had to listen to these two beat around the bush." She said as the rushed her inside. 

Dominique and Nik were following until one of the nurse held up their hands, "We are going have to ask you two to wait in the waiting room and could you please move those cars from the front." And with that she closed the door in front of them. 

They both stood there looking at the door before one of the nurses stuck their hand out and handed Nik Scott's keys. Dominique took a deep breath and Nik turned around heading to the front.

"Nik please, I really want to talk to you." She said and he stopped in his track.

"What is it Dominique?" he sighed.

"Didn't you hear what Katrina said?"

"Yea, I heard what she said, but I want to hear it from you. Until then, I didn't hear anything." He was about to walk away and something welled up in Dominique's throat and she thought that this could be the last time she had this opportunity.

"I don't want Jason. I want you." She finally said and he stopped in his track, "I was afraid. I was afraid that if I allow myself to be with you that everything will repeat itself and I will end up getting hurt by you. I was even scared that the same thing that happened to my mom would happen to me, especially since I loved you so much. "

"And now?"

"I'm not scared anymore. I want to start this right between you and me. I want the whole package with you. "Dominique said and took a deep breath as he stood in that spot unmoved, "Please, I want to be with you. I love you." There was that silence again.

He sighed, "Come here, mia bella." He said and 

Dominique breathed a sigh of relief and felt tears as she felt a whole weight being lifted off her.

She walked into his arms and felt them wrap around her. She felt that same secure feeling she always felt in his arms. She looked up at him and was meet with his lips. She leaned into the kiss, pulling him closer to her. 

"I love you." She said briefly pulling away from his sinful mouth.

"I love you too. Siete per sempre nel mio cuore" He said pressing his forehead against hers.

She sighed, "You're in my heart too." She said and he looked up at her in shock.

"Someone has been brushing up on their Italian?"

"Well, I'm going to have an Italian family so I might as well." He laughed as he kissed her again.

Dominique hugged him close as she finally felt her whole life coming together. She finally made some peace and got her life back in order and the best part about it was, it was the way she wanted it to be. 

A couple of months passed and Dominique was at the office, packing it up. There was a twinge of sadness about finally leaving the place, but she was happy that she sold it to a friend of Gale's that wanted to open up her clothing boutique here. For a moment Dominique thought about keeping the place as her new office, but she made a promise to get rid of all the old stuff and she was really looking forward to working from home. Speaking of home, she and Nik were also in the process of moving in with each other in a nice little loft that he found. 

She has been letting everything flow and not overanalyzing everything with Nik. Her mom and Aunt Crystal of course loved him. Her brothers gave him a hard time but they were really liked him too. It didn't even matter, the important thing was what was going on between the two of them and she was more excited about the news she had for him. 

"Hey baby." She heard as a pair of arms wrapped around her and she giggled.

"I hope this is someone I know." She joked.

"Oh you better believe you know me." He said slapping her butt.

She turned around in his embrace and gave him a brief kiss, "What are you doing here?"

"I just thought I would come for a visit and steal away a kiss." He said kissing her again, "So, how did it go at the doctor?" he asked looking through one of the boxes.

"Well, I was fine with just one little problem."

"What? What's going on?" he quickly said looking over at her with concerned etched on his face.

"Well, it looks like we may have a little roommate with us in our new place." His eyebrows wrinkled in confusion and then they widen.

"You're kidding right?" he smiled and she shook her head, "I'm actually going to be a father?" she nodded.

He rushed over to her and enveloped her in a huge hug, "Oh baby, I can't believe that you are having my baby."

"You should after all those times." She smiled.

"Yea, well maybe you found out my master plan." He joked, "Oh mama is going to kill me but it doesn't matter."

"Why would she kill you?" she asked.

"Hey I'm Italian, most of us believe in the whole marriage and then the babies."

"Oh normally I do too. Hint." She smiled. 

"Yea, don't worry about that part. Let's get past the move in thing first and also Jade's wedding. You know she will be pissed off if you steal her shine."

"I can't steal her shine, I'm doing the wedding."

"Oh, Jason and Candi called, they want to know when we are coming to visit them."

"Oh, so they finally got settled in Atlanta?"

"Yea, I told him I would talk it over with you about when we can go." 

Dominique was about to say something but was interrupted her phone. Oh the last call she would take as a therapist, she thought with a smile. She picked up the phone.

"Hello."

"Hey Doctor, it's me." She instantly picked up on the accent.

"Mr. Adlam, what a surprise. Did you get my message about me leaving the therapy business?"

"I did, but I wanted to call you one more time for a little more information, nothing big." 

Dominique plopped down in her chair, "Alright I guess this one can be for free."

She heard his hearty laughter over the phone which made her smile, "I'm going to be coming into town soon on business and I plan on staying."

"That's good."

"I already got advice from her sister, but I need advice from a therapist stand point."

Dominique settled back in her seat, "On what Mr. Adlam?"

"I want to know what I need to do to get my Gale back."



Let Me Help You, Good Doctor



"Yea, we wanted something to grab something quick. How are you doing Dominique?" James asked as Nik stood there quietly watching her.

"I'm good, how is the shop going?" she asked avoiding Nik's glare.

"Very well, business is really picking up and I'm thinking about promoting Ramon. I want the kid to go to school, but he's so damn stubborn." James shrugged.

"Well, he will get there soon. Nicole said that she has been trying to influence him to go, but he hasn't said anything about it." Jade said.

"There's some other stuff that's stopping him. He won't let me know the full details." James shrugged, "Um, baby do you have that paperwork that I gave you?" 

"Yea, let me go ahead and give that to you. I know we need to hurry up and turn that in. And look at you in your uniform. You are looking real nice there Nik." Jade said getting up and turning her attention to Nik.

"I look nice in whatever I do." He said wiggling his eyebrows and Jade just shook her head, "So, how are you doing neighbor?" Nik said purposely leaning close to Dominique.

She blinked briefly and lifted one eyebrow in confusion, "Fine, I know your lunch shouldn't last that long." She quickly said.

"Hey, I'm still somewhat on duty. What's wrong sweetheart? You look a little, flushed." He said turning a corner of his mouth into a devious smile.

She sighed in frustration, looking straight ahead, "Don't you have food to order." She huffed and he started laughing. 

He leaned close to her ear and she could feel his hot breath tickling her neck, "See you later, neighbor." Nik walked over to the front counter and Dominique felt her body slightly tremble. 

Jade looked between her friend and Nik with a small smile slowly appearing on her face. As if she could read what that smile said, Dominique shook her head, "No, you will not suggest that little Rico Sauvé over there." 

"It makes sense though. You need someone for Jason to see you with and it will intrigue him. T's only for one night." 

"Jason knows that I don't date outside my race. I never have."

"I thought you were mixed?"James asked.

"Please, that's not anywhere we want to go right now." Jade said shaking her head and James just shrugged and went to join Nik.

Dominique sighed, "I hate having this discussion with you."

"Because it's a pointless argument. I can somewhat understand why you feel the way you do given your background but come on sweetheart, not everything happens the way it did for your mom. Look at your friends." 

"I know but can we please drop this part of the conversation and go back to how I am not going to ask him to pretend to be my boyfriend."

"Nik is a good looking guy. He can dress and he is charming, which will make Jason jealous to see how happy you are with him."

"This is completely unethical. Doesn't sound like anything I would do." 

"Never hurts to try. Let me go ahead and give this stuff to James." Jade said and walked over to James, leading him to the back.

Was she serious about this? Strangely enough one side of Dominique's mind liked the idea. That would definitely show Jason what he is missing out on. Besides what kind of girl is this Candi, he's going to realize that he made a mistake in no time. Dominique got up and smoothed the skirt down before making her way over to where Nik was standing. 

He could sense she was behind him; he could smell her caramel scent, "Yes?" He said before she even open her mouth.

"Can I speak to you in the back?"

"Is this about the stuff I borrowed?" he said turning to face her.

"No, it's about a proposition."

His eyebrow shot up, "Oh, sounds promising, let's go." She shook her head as she led the way back to Katrina's office. 

She knew that Katrina would have no problem with her using her office, unlike her friends; they would be nothing but talk. While he walked behind her, Nik's eyes glanced down to her plump rear. He had to admit, watching her intrigued him, especially with her tight schedule she keeps. She didn't go out on dates much; she was mostly at the office and then home from what he saw.

She showed Nik to the back and closed the door as soon as he walked in, "Look, I need a favor from you and this is killing me to ask you this, but not because it's you. It's just I don't do things like this ever, but I am desperate.

"Thank you so much for that." He said sarcastically raising his eyebrow.

"Well again sorry, I just come right out sometimes, plus I'm stressed."

"Well what's on your pretty little mind?"

"I want you to pretend to be my boyfriend." She said quickly hoping that he wouldn't ask her to repeat it.

But he had to, just to make sure he heard her correctly, "You want me to what?" he said more clearly and she groaned in frustration.

"I want you to pretend to be my boyfriend."

"Why?" he said sitting at the edge of the desk.

"I have this friend that's in town and he's getting married. I don't want to look like a complete loser by him seeing that I'm alone so I need someone to step in and pretend."

He paused briefly looking as if he was in deep thought, "Why does it matter? Is he an ex-boyfriend?"

"No, he is just an old friend." She said quickly fidgeting with her fingers.

He looked at her as if he was ready for her to snap and just admit who this guy was, but he decided he would play along, "What's in it for me?"

"See I knew you were going to say that." She smiled, "You can have free access to my refrigerator without having to leave me money for the stuff you borrow, by the way thanks for doing that."

"Hey, I have always learned to replace whatever I have taken in some shape or form."

"Yes, that sounds very noble of you." She said sarcastically, "But I need an answer like now because I am very busy. I need to go back to the office and find something to wear and then you will need to appear at dinner with me tonight."

"I didn't agree to this yet." He said shaking his head.

"What's so hard about agreeing to this? You get access to the fridge." She said stunned and he just stared at her, "Fine, what do you want?"

Nik took a long look at the flustered doctor, staring at her from head to toe. A girl like her usually wasn't his type but something about her intrigued him so, every since they spent the Valentine's Day together. Then when it came to that kiss, it was the first time he really let himself go with a woman while he was kissing her. Given the opportunity, he would have ripped her clothes off right at her front step, but wasn't his style. She was so prim and proper; he wanted to see what she was like when she loosened up; when she loses her control. That's when an idea popped into his mind.

"Alright, you asked me what do I want?" he said with a leering smile and Dominique nervously nodded, "I want you, anyway I see fit at anytime."

Dominique's mouth instantly dropped and her eyes widen as silence filled the room, "Okay, I wasn't expecting that." She finally said, "Run that by me again." 

"I want you anyway I see fit at anytime. No questions asked for as long as it takes for me to keep pretending to be your man."

Yep, she heard him right. Dominique was at a loss for words and she was hardly ever at a loss for words. She felt the hairs on the back of her neck stand on end and the heat from her body soar. She reached over and slapped him across the face, standing in front of him. Whoa, she had bite, Nik thought smiling to himself.

"Do you realize you just assaulted a police officer in uniform?"

"Do you realize you just solicited me for sex in your police uniform?"

"You solicited me first sweetheart." He said pushing off the desk.

"What in your right mind would make you think that I would be okay with that? This is not some freaky sex story where I gullibly say okay and let you do what you want to me." She ranted.

"I mean we have to get past this somehow. I don't know if you know this but boyfriends touch and kiss on their girlfriends all the time, don't you think your little friend will notice something is wrong when it looks like you are uncomfortable when I touch you?"

She opened her mouth to argue and quickly closed. He had a point, but she didn't care, "Look I am not about to argue with you about why I choose to not to give you myself to use anytime you want. This is just insane."

"What's so insane about it? You want something from me and I want something from you."

"I am not going to be another notch on your bedpost." She said crossing her arms. 

"It's not even like that. If you want I will not actually have sex with you unless you want me to other than that, I'm going to show you a part of why they call me the Italian Stallion." He leered and Dominique stared at him.

She didn't want his words affecting her but they were. How long has it been since she had sex or had a man touch her? He stood so close that his musky smell hit her nose making her head spin. She had to get her head together. He just oozed confidence and could tell that she knew she was going to say yes. She wouldn't give him that satisfaction.

"No way." She said ready to walk away but felt her being dragged back against his body and the sudden closeness drew all the air out of her body. 

He stared down at her with those intense emerald eyes. Her mouth parted open as the sheer heat from his body made her melt. 

"Come on now Dominique." He said running his hand slowly down her arm and felt her body jerks in response, "You know there is a part of you that's a little bit curious." His other hand grabbed on to her waist and her arms dropped to her side, "Ever since that kiss we shared, I could feel that passion behind it that you were trying to hold in. I think you need what I'm offering, just a little release." He whispered as his hands went around to her lower back. 

Her breath started to come in short pants as she allowed the heat of his body and his smell cloud her head and make her heart beat faster, "You said no sex." She whispered as his hands slowly moved over her butt and she made the mistake of looking into his darkened eyes, "What do you get out of this?"

"I get to let out Dominique." He said swiping his tongue across his lips, her mouth dropped further as his hands came up to his biceps.

"I am Dominique."

"No, the real Dominique. The woman behind the schedules, the logic, and the pinstripe suits. I want the passionate woman that you are to be let out and let you feel something you haven't felt before." He said his lips hovering over hers.

"You sound pretty cocky of yourself." She said tilting her chin towards his lips and he still kept it his lips just inches away from hers.

"Not cocky, I just know what I'm capable of and plus with that whole no sex thing, I bet that would only last for so long." He smiled and Dominique's brain finally kicked in.

She pushed him away and he still wore that cocky smile that she wished she could slap off his face again. She let out a loud frustrated breath. 

"You are an asshole Nik." She said crossing her arms.

"Only sometimes, but I bet you like it. Look, how about I give you my number and you call me when you need me?" he said taking a piece of paper from Katrina's desk and started jotting down his number.

"And why exactly do you think I will need you?" 

"I'm guessing this person you wanted me to pretend for is very important and you need to make him jealous. So, you are going to be caught in a bind and I know you are going to need me." He said handing her the paper.

She looked between him and the paper and snatched it from him, "I'm taking this not because of what you said but because I may need a policeman after tonight." She huffed.

"Oh wow, is this guy an ex-boyfriend?" he asked and she narrowed her eyes.

"How are you so sure it's a guy?"

"I can read body language sweet heart." He smiled and she just shook her head.

"Thanks for nothing, Nik." She said quickly walking away from him.

"I do have a somewhat free evening." He shouted after and she gritted her teeth not to start some stupid argument with him. 

She would just have to grin and deal with it. There was no way she was going to let that cocky bastard do who knows what to her. She was going have to take the other part of Jade's plan and just be amazingly gorgeous, whatever that might be. She ran a mental list of what she had in her closet when she thought about the way his hands felt when he touched her. She slapped her hand on her forehead. She cannot lose focus right now, besides he's an asshole. She should have picked it up from the way he is. 

"Get a grip Dominique. Let's just get this over with." She said to herself. She would just have to ride this solo.

Later that night after countless times searching her closet, Dominique finally voted on this black pinstripe dress that was strapless but came with a matching small jacket. This was the only thing she allowed herself to be seen in. She put her long hair in a bun and wore a little makeup. Jason always did like a natural face, she thought with a smile. She handed her keys to the valet as she walked into the exclusive hotel restaurant. She never knew Jason liked places like this. 

She had the hostess escort her to the table and saw Jason sitting alone in his button down blue shirt and dark pants. She bit down on her bottom lip hoping this outfit would work. It was the first time he had ever seen her in something like this. She saw a wide smile spread across his face as she came closer to the table. 

"Nice to see you on time as usual." He said hugging her again.

"Well you know me, always punctual." She said sitting down smoothing her hair in place and that's when she noticed that they were alone, "Where is Candi?" Dominique asked trying to keep a smile on her face secretly hoping she got stranded somewhere.

"Oh she is upstairs getting ready. She loves looking her best." He smiled.

"I see, tell me about her."

"Well, she is from New York and she is half Japanese and half black, just like you." You have got to be kidding; Dominique thought but kept the smile on her face, "Like I told you earlier, she us getting ready to graduate with her PhD in Pediatrician and Masters in Mythology to where she can teach at any university." Oh great.

"She sounds like a real peach." Dominique said with a smile on her face.

"She is and you will love her. I mean she traveled the world and has done so many things for someone so young. Oh, here she comes." Jason said looking up past Dominique. 

Dominique sighed and turned around to face her competition with a gasp. There heading towards them was this women with long straight black hair flowing behind her. She was tall and had the perfect shape. She was gorgeous, everything that Dominique wished she could be. Hell, Dominique would date her if she could. This freaking Amazon model has a PhD and a Masters, any confidence that Dominique had instantly vanished. Maybe Dominique would get lucky and she would walk right past her, but there was no such luck as she walked directly to Jason's waiting arms.

"My darling, I'm sorry it took me so long. I couldn't find my favorite shoes you love." She said kissing his cheek.

"It's okay baby, I love what you have on anyway." He smiled, kissing her again and Dominique instantly saw something she didn't want to see in his eyes; his love for her, "Baby this is my friend I told you about Dominique." He said finally acknowledging her.

"Oh, I'm so sorry my dear, how are you? I feel like I know you already from everything that Jason here have told me." she said extending her hand towards her.

"I'm good and nice to meet you. I hope everything has been good." Dominique tried to smile.

She sat down and watched Jason's eyes watch her the whole time, "Of course. He told me how much he feels like you are his sister." And there's the first slap, "He told me you were cute, but you are very pretty." 

"Thank you, you are very pretty as well. So, Jason told me that you are getting your PhD and you have your Masters."

"Oh yes, I'm so close to graduating and I am so excited. I had taken a year off from school to go volunteer Africa and help children with AIDS. Then I went to backpack in Europe just to look explore, it was so beautiful. That's where I met Jason." She said looking back at him lovingly and she had thoughts of vomiting.

Dominique sat there for half an hour and watched them gush and coo over each other. This was insane. This Candi was smart, adventurous, an advocate, and gorgeous. She was supposed to fight this girl for Jason's attention. She had him wrapped around her fingers and made her feel like crap. There was no way that Dominique could get Jason's attention away just on her looks alone. 

"That was so interesting." Dominique said as she heard another story about how Jason spoiled Candi so. 

"So, tell me do you have someone special. I know a pretty girl like you should be fighting them off with a stick." Candi asked and Dominique just smiled meekly.

"Um, I do." Dominique suddenly said before she could stop herself.

"Oh." She smiled.

"You do?" Jason said suddenly snapping his attention to her.

"Of course I do. Um, he should be here I know he is working late. In fact, let me call him just to make sure, just excuse me for a moment." Dominique pushed away from the table and hurried to the bathroom. 

This goes against everything she believed in, but she had to do something. She was dying over there and knew that her showing off a boyfriend to Jason may turn his attention to him. She bit her bottom lip as she waited till the last woman left the rest room. She leaned against the bathroom door and reached into her purse for his number. A million thoughts ran through her mind, she wanted to hang up the phone but she knew there was no turning back as his phone rung. 

"Hello Dominique." He said and she sighed.

"Don't say that like you knew it was me."

"I did, what can I do for you?"

"Look, I need you. Okay, what we talked about earlier; I need you to come to the Sherick Hotel restaurant and pretend to be my boyfriend."

"Really? Now, what does that entail?"

"What do you mean?"

"I mean I had my stipulation." Dominique took a deep sigh, closing her eyes tight.

"Alright, done." She said and there was a pause.

She waited for him to say something, but heard the click of the phone. He hung up? How could he hang up on her like that without an answer? Don't lose your cool Dominique, just keep on going. Just get through this date no matter how cute they look together or how her hair glistens in a way Dominique always wished her curly hair would do. She let out a frustrated growl. Why couldn't she be a stripper that was dumb and living off of Jason? Then she wouldn't feel as bad. That's when she thought that if she just made up this wonderful guy then everything would be okay because Jason would go back home with his perfect woman and Dominique wouldn't have to see them again till the wedding day. Yea, forget him, she didn't need him.

She walked past the bar and leaned over, "Can I get a shot of tequila and a long island ice tea delivered to that table?" she said pointing towards Jason and walked back over to them cuddling to one another.

"Sorry about that. I had to call him to make sure that everything was okay." She smiled nervously. 

"Oh it's okay. Jason was just telling me how close you two use to be and that you have his best interest at heart." She said and Dominique nodded as she tried to countdown in her head that she was going to go away shortly, "And he also told me how creative you were and how you are very good at coordinating events."

"Use to be a passion of mine." Dominique smiled proudly.

"Yes and we thought it was be perfect for you to help us plan and coordinate our wedding." She smiled and the whole world just stopped as the waiter sat the two glasses down.




Let Me Help You, Good Doctor



"What?" Dominique said.

"Well you still do things like that don't you?" Candi asked and Dominique grabbed the waiter's hand.

"Give me two more of these." She whispered, "I do I mean, I helped two friends plan their wedding and things like that."

"Come on now, don't be modest. You use to do things like that all the time and you were great at it. I was for sure that you were going into coordinating events or things like that. I didn't think you would go into therapy." Jason said and Dominique smiled honestly.

"Well, you know no one knows Jason better than you and we like pretty much the same thing, so I trust you completely." Candi said as they both stared at her with hopeful eyes, "We know you have our best interest at heart and that way we can have our wedding here; just like Jason wants."

"Please Dominique, this will mean so much to me. That way I can meet this great guy of yours." He pleaded and they both stared at her.

She felt like she was standing at a firing squad, "Um, sure." Dominique chuckled nervously.

"Great, well you should have your boyfriend meet us here. I would love to meet... What is his name?" Jason asked.

Dominique instantly gulped, "His name? Yes of course his name." she said grabbing the long island tea and downing it quickly, "His name is..."

"Nikolas Mancini," She heard behind her and turned around to see Nik standing there, sharply dressed in his dark blue suit with his dark shades on, "but most people call me Nik." He removed the shades from his face as if he were James Bond and looked down at Dominique's shocked expression, "Hey baby, how are you?" he said leaning down and kissing her parted lips. Where was that bartender with her drink?