Read Online Radiance by Shayne McClendon - Free Book Online

bodyguard since the night he told her to seek the comfort she needed.
    She didn’t cry but she worried about her newfound anger.  It wasn’t an emotion that sat well on her shoulders.
    Riya and her men looked vibrant and happy, whispering together and laughing quietly.  Zach and Quinn waited for Tawny, talking to Hudson about recent changes to the market. 
    Other members frequently approached and she’d smile and converse for a few minutes but she wasn’t really in the mood.
    Brie was frequently lost in her own thoughts. 
    Though Riya and Tawny inquired, Brie remained unwilling to share information about Harper and Elijah.  It seemed over before it began but…she hoped .  Her mind drifted to the two men constantly and she was furious with Harper’s callousness. 
    She wasn’t sure how to go about finding, much less pursuing , a casual relationship at this stage of her rehabilitation. 
    Looking around, she wanted to explore the unique space on her own two feet.  The cane was too slow and she needed both hands while she sketched. 
    She itched to see everything inside the historical building.  There was an elevator to the second floor but she was embarrassed to use it.
    “Gabriella.”  Hudson’s voice pulled her from her unusual introspection.  “Would you like a tour?” 
    She shook her head with a sigh. 
    “The upstairs…”
    “I’ll wait , Hudson.  When I see it, I want to walk .  To explore and be able to sketch without having to make sure I don’t fucking fall .”  Her eyes widened.  “I’m so sorry…” 
    “Ssh.  I understand.”  His voice was gentle as he reached out to place his hand over hers.  “I’d have already gone mad.” 
    Turning hers over, she gripped him like a lifeline.  “I need this to happen faster .” 
    “Your recovery?”  She nodded.  “You’re doing remarkable.  Your doctors are blown away by your progress.” 
    “I can do more .” 
    “You will.  I know you’re impatient.  What can I do?” 
    “Forgive my behavior.” 
    “You’ve done nothing wrong, Gabriella.” 
    Rubbing her temple, she whispered, “I feel like a raging bitch.” 
    “ Never. ” 
    Tawny collapsed in the chair beside her.  “Did you call me?  I distinctly heard raging bitch.”  Grudgingly, Brie laughed.  “Hating this shit, huh?” 
    “I mean… fuck .”  Releasing Hudson’s hand with a final squeeze, she gave the redhead her full attention.
    “You feel helpless and that must chafe like nipples in winter.” 
    Laughing, Brie nodded.  “Something like that.  I don’t mind putting in the work.  I just want more headway.  I want…I don’t even know what the fuck I want.” 
    “I get it.”  Tawny sighed.  “Bet it doesn’t help that your last experience before all this was being crawled over by the dynamic duo of dirty sex.  Must make you antsy.” 
    Hudson choked on his scotch. 
    “Tawny… lord .”  Brie couldn’t contain her grin.  “I’m stuck in limbo.  Truthfully, I could use a distraction.” 
    Considering, she asked, “What about that sexy motherfucker who gave you the penis sculpture?” 
    Her heart contracted painfully but she covered it.  “It’s a fucking whale and you know it.” 
    “Sure but it’s definitely phallic .  I mean…seriously.  From the shape to the blowhole, I see penis.” 
    “Bitch, you see penis in everything .” 
    “A-fucking-men.  Anyway, what about calling him and his hot bodyguard to work your pretty ass over and remind you why you need to keep getting up in the morning?” 
    Brie closed her eyes and took a deep breath.  No way could she share the complexities of Elijah and Harper with Tawny.  The woman was way too unpredictable. 
    “I’m can’t handle them right now.” 
    “Why not?  I thought these were done deal orgasms.” 
    “I’m not strong enough physically or emotionally.”  She chose her words with care.  “I offer nothing of value at this