Playing Favorites: Book One

About The Author

I'm from a small town in Arkansas and now live in a slightly bigger town. The biggest in the state. So, there's that.

I am currently a buyer and stylist for a women's boutique that is owned by my best friend. I've been married for ten years and I'm only 30. So, you do the math.

I have two amazing kids. A seven year old daughter and a three year old son. Both of which I hope never read this book along with my mom. She will be very upset with my choice of words and racy scenes.

Writing has always been a passion of mine but I've never really put my pen to a pad. This is my first book and I honestly wrote every single word on my phone in my notes app. It won't be perfect and I actually welcome the flaws. This is as real as it gets.

I wrote this book everywhere and anywhere. Carpool, the gym while I was stretching, in the Starbucks drive through, on road trips. You get the point.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy.

Playing Favorites

Book One

BY: PARKER DANIEL

dedicated to my book club

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank my book club. You girls know who you are. You are the ones that I let read every chapter as soon as I finished. Thank you so much for pushing me to keep writing. You are the reason this book even exists because without you girls breathing down my neck to get chapter s done, I might not ever have finished. I loved all the constructive criticism and the blatant criticism as well.Thank you for making fun of my choice of words when necessary and persuading me to make the needed changes when something sounded just a little too dorky. I love you girls!!! This book is for you!!!

Thank you to my husband who put up with all my late night writing. I know the glow of my phone annoyed him when he was trying to sleep. Also, thank you for understanding that this is a work of fiction and none of these characters exist.

Mom, thank you for not reading this book. I am not sure I could stand the idea of you reading Chapter 20 for the first time. Believe me, you don't want to.

Contents

About the Author

Dedication

Acknowledgements

Introduction

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Playing Favorites

Introduction

Hi. My name is Stella and I am a professional escort.

I know what you are thinking.

Slut. Whore. Prostitute.

Believe me. I would have thought all those things four years ago too. And I did. But, growing up poor gave me the drive to make something out of my life. New York was a hard place to survive. Let's just say I did what I had to do.I’m a pretty girl (that's what I'm told) and my looks made me money. And money gave me power. And power, well, that gave me everything.

…or so I thought.

Chapter One.

"Stella, can you go get me a cappuccino. Dry. Two Splenda. Thanks, doll. "

She worded it like a question but she wasn't asking.

Yes, ma'am. Anything else? I was rolling my eyes. She always made me go get her coffee at the weirdest times.

No, doll.

Again, eye roll. Doll? I hated that.

I picked up my purse from under my desk, grabbed my coat and headed for Starbucks. I reached for my phone to see if Carson wanted to go with me. It was across the street, but still. With every step towards the elevator I was cursing myself for wearing these shoes. But damn they were cute.

I was in mid text when I ran right into the wall. And by wall, I mean a rock solid chest.

That one time in seventh grade flashed through my mind.

The impact sent my phone flying across the floor.

Shit.

I hurried to retrieve it and I was met with a pair of pissed off crystal blue eyes.

Double shit.

And there he was. Warner Jones. Fucking owner of this damn building and the hottest human I've ever seen. He was like an urban legend. People talked about him all the time but I hardly ever saw him. And I definitely have never been this close.

I was officially embarrassed.My brain began functioning once again and I found my words, finally.

Ta, ta, today junior.

Mr. Jones. I'm so sorry. I couldn't even look at him.

I'm so clumsy. Are you ok?My voice sounded weak. Not like myself at all.

I managed to look up.

Wow.

He had a smirk on his face that only an arrogant asshole could make look so damn sexy.

Of course. Why wouldn't I be? He straightened his tie and I heard the elevator door ding.

Thank God!

I practically dove in. I imagined myself tackling everyone in my way. I needed out of here.

And then, arrogant asshole got in behind me.

Stella... Hold the doors. Carson ran up just in time and his hand shot thru the closing elevator. When it opened back up, he calmly walked in pushing his hair out of his face.

Thanks for holding the doors, babe. So sweet. He rolled his eyes and I punched him.

You gave me a two second warning. Shit. What did you expect?

For you to hold the doors open.

I started laughing at his pouty face. He was adorable.

Whatever. I'll buy your latte to make up for it.

I heard someone clear his throat in the corner and noticed Warner staring at me.

Weird.

I guess I really pissed him off.

Carson threw his arm around me and kissed me on the cheek.

I've missed you today. I hate when we can't eat lunch together.

Me too, boo. But Victoria has me running around like a crazy person. I didn't even have time to eat lunch today. I gave him my best sad face.

Lucky you. You'll be a size two in no time.

Don't be a dick!! I bumped him with my hip.

Plus, if I lost weight, you wouldn't have anything to hold on to. I gave him a flirty wink and shook my ass.

Oh, I have plenty to hold on to. He grabbed me around the waist and pulled me against his chest.

We both started laughing.

Warner, not so much. He said something under his breath and looked at his watch. And then he stared at me the rest of the way down.

I was...uncomfortable.

This elevator ride was the longest in history. I swear we stopped on every floor.

The doors finally opened to the lobby. It was like being released from prison. I took Carson by the arm and walked us toward Starbucks.

I looked over my shoulder and caught Warner glaring at us. This guy was starting to piss me off. What was his problem? I made eye contact and blew him a kiss. I don't know what made me do it, but his reaction was priceless.

You're welcome, asshole.

The day seemed to drag on. Victoria left early and left me with a pile of shit to do. But it didn't take me long to finish it and I was packing up my stuff before five.

I took out my phone and texted Carson.

ME: drinks?

CARSON: Duh. Where?

ME: Really? You know where. See ya in 15.

I wrapped my scarf around my neck and threw on my beanie. New York was so cold in February. It was still so hard to get used to even after living here for 6 years.

Damn it. I waited outside for a minute. To walk or not to walk?It was only seven blocks but it was cold as shit out here.

Ah, screw it. I'll cab it.

I went to lift my hand to hail a taxi when someone pushed it down.

I'll take you. A low, husky voice whispered in my ear.

A shiver ran down my spine.

He stepped around me.

I'll take you. He repeated more sternly.

Oh. Warner Douche Bag Jones.

No fucking way.

No thanks. I can just take a cab.

I held my hand back up.

Why are you being so stubborn? I have a car and it's freezing. You will never get a cab at this hour.

He was right. Damn him. Smart and good looking.

Then I'll walk.

I took off toward the bar. My feet were cursing me. I wanted to cut them off at the ankle. But, the hell if I was getting in his car.

Damn it. What is wrong with you? He placed his hand on my shoulder. You can't walk. Not by yourself.

Ummm. Yes I can. I do it all the time. I'm 24 and more than capable of walking a few blocks to meet my friend. So, if you will excuse me I would like to get going. I'm already late. I yanked my shoulder out of his grasp and began jogging until I felt I was far enough away. When I turned back he was gone.

Thank God.

I clutched my bag to my chest and walked the seven blocks in the blistering cold. Now, I was cursing him for making me walk. What a jerk. And who does he think he is?

Carson was sitting at the bar all adorable and lonely. I just stared at him for a second.

He was so handsome. He had on a black suit that was tailored to fit his body perfect or should I say perfect body. His tie was loosened and the top few buttons of his white button up were undone. His brown hair was longer on top and was styled in sort of a faux hawk.

Gorgeous.

He was so dreamy. I keep hoping some day he will decide to date girls. But, I’m pretty sure he will never bat for the other team. So, he will just have to be one of my best friends.I loved him so much because he was easy to talk to and to flirt with. Two of my favorite things to do.

Hey good looking. Is this seat taken? I ran a finger down his spine as I slowly walked by.

Actually it is. It's taken by a hot girl I’m hoping to bag later. He gave me a wink and took a sip of his vodka.

Ha!! In my dreams, pretty boy.

Oh. You think I'm pretty?

Fucking beautiful. I leaned in and kissed him on the cheek.

And, who says ‘bag’?

I planted one more firm kiss on his other cheek and took my seat.

Can my girl get a skinny margarita? She’s trying to fit in a size two.

He gave the bartender a smile and put his arm around me.

I elbowed him in the side.

Wow. Keep saying things like that and you for sure are getting bagged.

One can only hope. He gave me that dashing smile of his. He is such a tease.

So, tell me about the rest of your day? Is Victoria still a bitch?

Not her usual bitchy self lately.She must be getting laid. Which is a relief. Nothing much happened.She left early and I got my shit done and here we are. I lifted my drink and clanked his.

Mmmmm. This is exactly what I needed.

And then, when I was on my way here, Warner Jones tried to give me a ride. It was the weirdest thing. I shook my head and looked at Carson over my glass.

Warner Jones? Tried to give you a ride?

Yes. Are you just going to start repeating everything I'm saying? Do I need to talk slower?

Don't be a bitch. I'm just trying to process it. Why in the world would you say no?

Who said I said no? I was trying to act offended.

I did, because I know you. And there is no way you were taking a ride from him. You’re too, what's the word? Too much of a grandma.

I nearly spit out my drink.

If he only knew what I did at night.

Grandma? You have no idea what the fuck you are talking about. I said no because he's an arrogant asshole and he was trying to tell me what to do. In case you forgot, no one tells me what to do. I was poking my finger into his chest to drive my point home.

Yeah, yeah. Blah, blah, blah. You're an independent woman. You make your own money, pay your own rent. Oh wait. No you don't. Luke does that. He started laughing.

That's a technicality. Luke asked me to live with him. It's not my fault he won't let me pay rent. Plus, he's my best friend and loves taking care of me. And shit, he's a lot nicer than you.

He held his hands to his chest.

You're saying I'm not your best friend? Ouch, Stella. That hurts. It really hurts.

I rolled my eyes and took another drink.

You're my second favorite. I shrugged my shoulders and kissed his cheek.

Plus, Luke thinks I'm hot and you think Luke's hotter than me. So he wins.

Hey. I think you're hot. In like a little sister sort of way.

Ewwww. Gross. Don't ever say that out loud. You sound incestuous.

Big word.

You need a definition?

He let out a laugh. He was beautiful when he laughed.

Stella, don't talk to Warner anymore. He's not a good guy. As long as I've worked for him I've never seen him in a serious relationship. He cupped my chin and looked me in the eye.

Wow. Shit just got real.

Not good enough for you.He repeated.

You mean, not good enough for your sister? I gave him a wink and continued, Carson, I didn't even talk to him. He was such a dick earlier today. He acted like I ran into him on purpose. It was me who dropped my phone and he was glaring at me the entire elevator ride. He's a douche. Plus, he would never be interested in this.

I waved my hands up and down.

I'm a size four, remember? I smacked his forehead with my palm. He caught it in mid air.

Hey, he's a guy with eyes and he has a dick. He would definitely be interested.

I stopped him.

You're a guy with eyes and a dick. And I've been trying to bag you for a year.

He laughed and nearly lost his drink.

That's so different and you know it. Stella, you have no idea how beautiful you are. Which makes you even more beautiful. Don't think for one second he wouldn't be interested. Every guy in the bar is pissed because they think that I'm here with you. He kissed the back of my hand and squeezed it tight.

Even if you are a size 4.

I smacked him. Hard. On the chest. I couldn't help but laugh.

Let's get out of here. I'm exhausted. I grabbed my stuff and we called it a night.

Luke was watching a movie when I got home.

Whatcha watching, Lukey? I threw my bag down and hung my coat on the rack.

World War Z and it is amazing.

Awesome. Let me put my sweats on and I'll join you. How far into it are you?

I'll start it over. I'm only 30 minutes in and you sort of need to watch it from the beginning.

He threw the blanket off and reached for the remote. His bare chest made me a little weak in the knees. I loved it when he walked around shirtless with his low-slung baggy sweats. He was my man candy. I know he did it on purpose and enjoyed torturing me. And I never tried to hide my attraction towards him. I gave him a wicked grin and shook my head.

Damn you're sexy! Why can't you be my boyfriend?I cocked my head to the side and laughed.

When did we break up? His voice was full of sarcasm.

I walked over and gave him a hug.

You would really start the movie over?

Of course. It will be much better to watch with you cuddled next to me.

Oh. He's perfect.

Ok. I'll be quick.

That's what she said. That was his favorite line.

I rolled my eyes.

Will that ever get old? I nudged him in the arm and ran to my room.

And don't forget the beer. I yelled as my bedroom door closed.

I yanked up my favorite pair of NYU sweats and pulled on my softest tank. I piled my hair on top of my head in a messy bun and quickly washed my face.

When I walked into the living room, Luke was laying on the couch on his side. He peeled the blanket back and patted the empty space. I laid in front of him with my back against his chest. He covered both up and pressed play.

This was my favorite place.

Chapter Two.

There is just something about a $700 pair of shoes to brighten my day. It was finally Friday and I had the week from hell.I stared long and hard at the mirror. Turning to the side and then back to the front. They were perfect.

I'll take them. I smiled at the sales lady in the mirror.

I'm going to keep looking around if you don't mind holding on to them for me. I stepped out of the shoes and placed them back in the box and handed them over to, I glanced at her name tag, Vivian.

Thank you Vivian.

Thank you Miss McDaniel.

Please, call me Stella.

I walked over to the handbags. I needed a new clutch for tonight. I was entertaining a huge client and I needed to look my best.

What do you think about this one? I held up a black clutch with pyramid studs.

Ahem. Luke, did you hear me? This is why I should always shop with Carson. He glanced up.

Do you like this one?

He took a look and continued staring at his phone.

No. Too rocker chick. I think you should be more of a classic beauty tonight.

Wow. Have you been reading my Vogues while I'm at work?

His look said it all. He has.

You're adorable. You know that.

I walked over and kissed him on the cheek.

Luke was my best friend. Has been since our freshman year in college. He persuaded me to tutor him; more like begged me, until I said yes. And I did. All four years. He was persistent and we've been best friends ever since.

So. What should I expect tonight? He better be good looking. The last guy you approved was far from cute. He was borderline gross. And you know it.

He was not. You are just so picky.

Picky? I wouldn't call myself picky. I just have high standards. I'm your best girl and we have a deal. Or did you forget? I raised an eyebrow and crossed my arms waiting for him to answer.

He stood and walked up behind me. He wrapped his hands around my waist.

You know you're the best. And by far my favorite. I will always take care of you. And don't forget that I buy your shit. Not Carson.

I smiled. I always loved being held by Luke. He towered over me. Which was hard to do considering I was 5'9. He was easily 6'3. All lean muscle. He had tattoos covering both arms and across his chest and back. He was damn sexy. But he was my best friend and business partner. I would never mix business with pleasure. Never.

Then please tell me this guy tonight is cute.

He turned me around to face him.

He should live up to your expectations. He brushed my hair out of my face and placed a quick kiss on my cheek.

We finished shopping and went back to our apartment so I could get ready. I had a date. Aka, I had a job tonight.

When Luke approached me about doing this sort of work four years ago, I was shocked and pissed. Did I look like a whore? But after he explained that his dad has owned the business for 20 years, I listened to his proposal. No sex. That was the number one rule and definitely my favorite. No touching. Also a good one. Handholding was acceptable but only if I felt comfortable. My job was to be arm candy. Nothing more. Go to dinners, galas, fashion shows, and parties. It didn't sound so bad after he laid it out. Luke always bought my date outfits and I got paid. A lot of money. More money than any college student should be making. But I needed it. My mom worked two jobs my whole life to keep us with our basic needs. I studied hard and got a scholarship. This job helped me pay the bills and then some.

But now, I have an amazing day job where I make great money. However, going on a few dates can easily rake in a months worth of salary. So I take jobs here and there but only the ones that pay at least five grand or more.

Luke screens everyone first and only gives me the best of the best. Which is so nice because when I first started there were definitely some douche bags that didn't follow all the rules.

I threw my bags on my bed. I glanced at my phone. I had about an hour and a half to get ready. I walked into my bathroom and turned on the water and let it fill the tub. I grabbed my shampoo and conditioner, body wash, razor and shaving cream. I snagged my book and sank slowly into the scalding water.

Ahhh. It felt so good.

After reading a couple of chapter s and my fingers were officially pruned, I pulled the plug and sadly got out. My auburn hair fell just past my shoulders. I quickly dried it. I walked in my closet to pick out a wig. This was my favorite part. I loved getting into character.I always wore one. I never wanted anyone to know who I was.

I picked out my favorite wig and secured it in place. The color was just a little darker brown, cut to shoulder length and had bangs. It made me feel sexy. I kept my makeup natural, piled on the mascara and added a red stain to my lips.

My dress was simple but beautiful. It was black, of course, with a plunging deep V. It was fitted and hugged my body all the way down to my mid calf. I stepped into my new shoes and took one more glance in the mirror.

I guess this will do.

I grabbed my classy clutch and walked into the living room.

Wait! I have to play the song when you come out. Luke grabbed his phone.

Really? Do we have to do this every time? The answer was always the same.

Absolutely. It's tradition. Now go.

Rolling my eyes, I went back into my room.

Ready?

Yeah. He pushed play and I could hear Reba McEntire’s voice echoing through the hallway. It made me laugh every time.

Here's your one chance Fancy don't let me down.

The song couldn't be more appropriate and Luke played it every single time I had a date.

I walked out and did a little strut and a twirl seeking his approval.

Well, hello gorgeous. You look fucking fantastic. This guy won't know what hit him. I love it when you have bangs. Luke pulled me into his lap.

And you smell so good, he said as he inhaled deeply.

He grabbed my face between his hands.His smile quickly faded.

Don't let him touch you, ok?

I nodded.

Promise me, Stella.

I promise.

He nuzzled his nose into my neck and goose bumps ran down my arm. I was giggling when there was a knock at the door.

Damn it.

Travis was propped up against the wall across from our door.

Hey Travis. Want to come in for a sec. Let me just a do a few touch ups.

He walked in and gave Luke a guy hug complete with a handshake and there may have been a chest bump involved.

Travis was the same age as Luke and I, I think. Actually, I’m not even sure how old he is.

That’s so rude of me.

He is Luke's father's personal driver and always accompanies me on my dates. Serving as both a driver and a bodyguard. Travis was huge. He must be at least 6'4" and easily 220lbs. He trains in mixed martial arts and is an all around badass. I always feel safe with him around.

Ok that should do it. Travis are you ready? I dropped my gloss in my clutch and walked towards him.

Always. Wow. Stella, you look hot. That dress is the shit. He gave me a wink and offered his arm. I gave Luke a kiss on the cheek and headed out.

Luke was actually right this time. Mark was cute. Actually gorgeous. We were attending a gallery opening where he was hoping to score some paintings for his new apartment. I was posing as his new girlfriend that just a moved here from Boston. I teach yoga and my name for the evening is Samantha. But I go by Sam.

We wondered through the gallery arm and arm viewing all the art work. Some pieces were extraordinary. Mark was so sweet, asking my opinion and what I thought of the pieces he was looking to buy.

He left me at the bar while he discussed his new purchases with the gallery owner. I watched him as he negotiated his deal. He wore a Tom Ford navy suit. My favorite. It was tailored to his exact measurements. I loved the way his pants fit his rear end. You could catch a glimpse of it every time he put his hands in his pockets. Which was not often enough.His crisp white shirt was unbuttoned and gave him a powerful but relaxed look. He looked approachable but confident. A great combination. This date was actually fun. He was charming and had a great personality. It made me wonder why he would have to pay a woman to be by his side. Surely this man could get his own dates? But, I wasn't allowed to ask, so I didn't.

I rested my elbows on the bar. Of course my feet were killing me and all the seats were taken. I could see Travis watching me from across the room. I wished at that moment we could