Our Love Story

Chapter OneChloeJordan is a smooth talker.

He had to be, considering he convinced me to go with him, on his private jet, to Jamaica, as a graduation gift. I’ve only known him for four weeks, yet he talked me into putting all my worldly possessions in a storage locker, even though I have no plans for what would happen after our trip.

There’s already a lot of pressure on tonight. I know what Jordan expects, but right now I just don’t feel ready.

And I know that isn’t going to make him happy.

But ever since we got on his jet today, he’s been predatory … no longer the romantic who gave me flowers before every date, the sweetheart who told me it was okay to take things slow. Suddenly he’s eyeing me like a piece of meat.

Before I give him my body, I need some reassurance.

As if he’s able to read my mind, he crosses the bedroom of the condo where we’re staying. “I just wanted to tell you something, Chloe. And I’ve been waiting for the right time to say it.”

I smile, wanting tonight to be perfect. I slip off my shoes, and walk toward him.

He takes my hands and says, “This last month has been incredible. And I want this trip to be a dream come true for both of us. The truth is, I love you, Chloe.”

My eyes widen. It’s not that I don’t believe that love can blossom in a month … but when he says the words, they sound hollow.

Stiff.

Memorized.

“Love?” My voice reveals my surprise. “You think you love me?”

Jordan’s eyes flash with anger. “That’s how you’re going to answer?”

“Well…” I falter, biting my bottom lip. “I mean, it’s a big deal. I’ve never said those words to someone before.”

“And you think I have?” Jordan shakes his head.

“I don’t know. I mean, you’re Jordan Connors, a billionaire CEO. You could have anyone.”

“But I want you.” He reaches for me, and I flinch, not even knowing why. He’s never hurt me, and maybe I’m acting crazy to doubt his love. Honestly, I have next to no experience with giving my heart to anyone.

Jordan is pissed. He raises his hands in anger. “Look, I need to cool down. I’m gonna go find some fucking ice. I got us champagne, you know, for our celebration?”

He leaves in a huff and I sit on the edge of the bed, hands clasped in my lap, wondering if I just ruined everything.

Then a phone starts buzzing. It isn’t mine, and I look around, seeing Jordan’s on the dresser. Twisting my lips, I consider looking at it.

There have been little red flags all month … but I keep squashing them because the idea of having someone looking out for me is so appealing.

I’ve been on my own forever.

His phone buzzes again.

I trust Jordan, don’t I?

I must not, because the next thing I know I’m looking at his lock screen, entering the four-digit password I’ve seen him use countless times. I press Messages, and see the newest one.

Hey baby. My pussy is so wet for you. Come home and lick it like you did last night.Oh shit.

This was a bad idea. Those words were not mine.

I click off the text. Then see another woman’s name. I can’t resist.

It’s been three days since we made love … I miss you. I’ll show you mine if you show me yours….After which is a series of close ups of her lady-parts.

I blink back tears.

I’m such a fool.

I hear the front door open and I drop the phone. I squeeze my eyes shut, trying to erase what I just saw.

I can’t believe I was about to give Jordan my virginity.

He comes in carrying a bucket of ice. “Hey love, no more fighting. You all ready to make this a night to remember?” he asks, leaning in for a kiss.

I pull back. “I can’t do this, Jordan.”

“What are you talking about, Chloe?” He pushes his lips forward, his slicked back hair suddenly repulsive. “Did my confession scare you?”

“It’s not that. It’s you.”

“Why do you think I brought you here, anyway?” His voice is cold and calculating.

I shake my head. “No, Jordan, I don’t want—”

He storms around the room, hands flying in the air, livid. His face is red, he’s lost his cool, but that’s not my problem. I don’t owe him anything. Just because he brought me on this lavish vacation doesn’t mean I’m required to pay him back with my virginity.

Especially not now.

Now that I know I am nothing to him but a present he wants to unwrap.

“It’s not going to happen, Jordan. I told you, I’ve waited my entire life, and I want the moment to feel right, and this feels...”

Forced.

Rushed.

Wrong.

Not the memory I want.

And I already have a lifetime of bad memories. I need this one to be good.