Lipstick Kisses : A Sexy, Standalone Contemporary Romance by C.C. Cartwright Page A

his face lit up?”
    “Yes, it was priceless. And worth every penny,” I smile.
    We all go back inside and enjoy the tiramisu my mom made.
    Rocco is sulking, jealous again that he can’t afford to give such a grand gift. Well, maybe if he worked half as hard as I do, he could.
    Once we get home and are tucked in for the night, Chandler tells me, “That was some birthday gift. It was very generous of you, sweetheart.”
    “My dad deserves it. He has always there for me growing up and gave me a wonderful childhood. I’m happy I can afford to give him his dream car.”
    “You are one sweet and amazing daughter. I can see how much your dad loves you.”
    “I’ve always been his Sweet Pea, his Little Princess,” I remark.
    “Yes, you are both of those things.”
     

Chapter Sixteen
Chandler
    We’re going to an awards banquet for Women Who Mean Business. The organization has nominated Nikki to showcase her accomplishments. I’m proud of her.
    Nikki looks stunning in a white lace blouse and a long black floor-length skirt. She’s wearing her signature red lipstick.
    “You look stunning, sweetheart,” I say, pulling her to me.
    “Thank you,” she replies, her beautiful eyes capturing mine.
    “We’d better get going,” she says.
    “I’d rather stay here and ravish you,” I say, nibbling on her ear. Her scent is intoxicating. I’ve fallen hook, line and sinker for this girl.
    “We have to make an appearance. Save your passion for later. I’ll be looking forward to having you later tonight,” she says.
    My hand roams to her tush and gives it a squeeze.
    “Hey,” she says, brushing her lips against mine.
    “Let’s go then. The sooner we get there, the sooner we can come back here and I can make love to you.”
    We arrive at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, where the awards banquet is being held.
    At first, we mingle amongst the crowd in reception area and enjoy some champagne and caviar amongst other appetizers being served by the wait staff.
    Nikki chats with some of the other businesswomen nominated tonight and of course, most of them are considerably older than my amazing girl.
    But she holds her own, carrying herself with poise and grace. I guess you could say I’m her arm candy.
    “I think it’s time to head inside and find out seat,” she says, placing her glass down on one the trays of a passing waiter.
    She hooks her hand inside the crook of my arm, and we walk into the dazzling ballroom.
    Our table is toward the front, near the stage.
    We dine on scallop potatoes, filet mignon, salmon and French-cut green beans. The food is delicious.
    A rather stout lady, who definitely looks like she means business takes the pulpit and welcomes everyone here tonight.
    She announces the names of the women nominated tonight along with a laundry list of each of their accomplishments. They all are very impressive.
    “And the winner of the years award for Woman of the Year is Nikki Russo of Lipstick Kisses.” The room erupts in applause and Nikki is moved beyond words.
    “Oh. My. God. Chandler, I don’t believe it!” she exclaims, placing her hand on my thigh.
    “It’s well deserved. Congratulations, sweetheart,” I say, giving my girl a tight embrace and a kiss before the crowd of onlookers.
    Nikki makes her way up to the pulpit, and she’s beaming.
    She pulls the microphone down close to her lips. That leaves me envisioning doing naughty things to her later.
    “It’s and honor and a privilege to be nominated and be counted amongst  this remarkable group of women who mean business.” The crowd applauds.
    “I dedicate this award to my father. He always treated me like I could do anything. He raised me to believe in myself and to have no barriers to succeed in life just because I was a girl. And I also thank my boyfriend, Chandler. His unwavering support and love mean so much to me. Thank you, ladies!”
    Nikki continues with her acceptance speech and I feel incredibly proud of her. Then when she mentions