Compulsion

COMPULSION

…She tried to look anywhere except at him, but he commanded the room with his personality, and demanded her attention. A secret fear tingled throughout her body, one she’d come to recognize well these past two years. No way she could deny it anymore or the thrill she got from it. Risk. That’s what it was really about, that almost giddy surge, the reckless abandon—the risk. She imagined that big, warm body of his, spread like a feast… She knew exactly what she’d do. Pull off that ridiculous tie and buttondown shirt—maybe rip the shirt, popping buttons everywhere. She’d push him onto the conference table. Next, she’d take off her blouse and rub her breasts over the coarse hair on his flat belly. Then she’d slide lower, undo the buckle of his belt, unzip those slacks and let the bulge of his magnificent cock spring free. Would he taste as good as he looked? She wanted to find out. She licked her lips and clenched her thighs as heat pooled low within her. He’d be stiff and ready for her pleasure. The door would be open only enough for a sliver of light to escape. Someone could walk in at any minute and see them. He’d beg her to straddle him, ride him hard. She’d climb onto the table and ever-so-slowly ease herself down over his cock, watch that steel-like rod disappear from view. A noise outside would cause them to look at the door. Wonder if they had been caught. But she wouldn’t stop. No, she’d slide him in deeper, make him call out her name and risk exposure…

ALSO BY C ASSANDRA CURTIS Cup Of Fate I Put A Spell On You

COMPULSION BY CASSANDRA CURTIS

AMBER Q UILL PRESS, LLC http://www.amberquill.com

COMPULSION AN AMBER HEAT BOOK This book is a work of fiction. All names, characters, locations, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination, or have been used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead, locales, or events is entirely coincidental. Amber Quill Press, LLC http://www.amberquill.com http://www.amberheat.com All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be transmitted or reproduced in any form, or by any means, without permission in writing from the publisher, with the exception of brief excerpts used for the purposes of review. Copyright © 2007 by Cassandra Curtis ISBN 978-1-60272-003-9 Cover Art © 2007 Trace Edward Zaber

Layout and Formatting provided by: ElementalAlchemy.com

PUBLISHED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

To Cora Zane and Tempest Knight, two gifted writers, moon-maids and friends, who listened and offered advice. And to all the Divas and Diva Dudes, you make the journey fun!

COMPULSION

COMPULSION The presentation screen sat directly in front of her, yet she could only see his strong, capable hands. Lindsay shivered at the possibilities…at the delicious adrenaline rush. The idea of being caught in a compromising position with Jack Randolph made her squirm in her seat. She tried once more to focus on things like cost analysis and projections, while her body hummed with excitement. He glanced her way. Oh, hell! Was she supposed to respond to something? She cleared her throat, and the moment passed. Good thing, too, since she had no clue what he’d said. She tried to look anywhere except at him, but he commanded the room with his personality, and demanded her attention. A secret fear tingled throughout her body, one she’d come to recognize well these past two years. No way she could deny it anymore or the thrill she got from it. Risk. That’s what it was really about, that almost giddy surge, 1

COMPULSION

the reckless abandon—the risk. She imagined that big, warm body of his, spread like a feast… She knew exactly what she’d do. Pull off that ridiculous tie and buttondown shirt—maybe rip the shirt, popping buttons everywhere. She’d push him onto the conference table. Next, she’d take off her blouse and rub her breasts over the coarse hair on his flat belly. Then she’d slide lower, undo the buckle of his belt, unzip those slacks and let the bulge of his magnificent cock spring free. Would he taste as good as he looked? She wanted to find out. She licked her lips and clenched her thighs as heat pooled low within her. He’d be stiff and ready for her pleasure. The door would be open only enough for a sliver of light to escape. Someone could walk in at any minute and see them. He’d beg her to straddle him, ride him hard. She’d climb onto the table and ever-so-slowly ease herself down over his cock, watch that steel-like rod disappear from view. A noise outside would cause them to look at the door. Wonder if they had been caught. But she wouldn’t stop. No, she’d slide him in deeper, make him call out her name and risk exposure. It was her favorite fantasy, her constant desire. “Ms. Dannon?” The irritation in the voice managed to get through. “If you’d rather be home searching the want ads instead of sitting here in a meeting…?” Lindsay blinked, any risqué thoughts driven from her mind. “No, Mr. Randolph.” Damn him. What was wrong with her? Surely it couldn’t be normal to have such wicked thoughts—especially about a hard-ass like Jack Randolph. Fantasizing about him had become a weird sort of compulsion—it made her feel dirty. And she liked it. She wanted to be the one to reveal the flesh and blood human living underneath the suit and tie. The one who brought him to his 2

COMPULSION

knees…made him so hot, so eager for her, he’d forget everything and lose control. What would he do if he ever found out about her secret daydreams? A vision popped into her head. Jack pulling her tight against him, fucking her—hard, fast, on the floor, the table, against a wall. A ripple of excitement chased under her skin at the thought. Her nipples tightened and began to ache. Instead of lusting after Jack Randolph, she should take his threat to heart and start searching the want ads. Her job might be one of the positions cut after the merger. Was he trying to warn her in some strange “male” way? She forced herself to ignore the dampness of her panties and pay attention to what he said, instead of the buff body hidden under the starched shirt. “We have a lot of work to do people. So, let’s get to it.” He stood, and everyone began filing out. Of course, the ass-kissers stayed that extra minute or two, hoping to speak with the boss. She wasn’t one of them…not really. She clamped down hard on the flight of fancy that sprang to mind. Randolph’s personal assistant, Tegan, quirked his lips and flashed her a brief smile as he stepped between his boss and the stragglers. He’d confided to her once that the big guy hated sycophants, and part of his job was to keep them at a distance from Mr. Randolph. She watched as the boss took the opportunity Tegan provided and left the conference room. Within a minute, the room cleared, except for the two of them. “No wonder you make huge bucks. You sure know how to get rid of the garbage.” “Hell, I’d do that for free.” “Speaking of free…are you free for lunch?” Lindsay asked. Most of the people at the company thought they were an item. Never mind the 3

COMPULSION

company’s policy on inter-office dating. Or the fact that Tegan was seriously involved with her best friend. “Not today. I have a working lunch with Jack. Tell you what. Tomorrow we’ll go to that new place you wanted to try. My treat.” “The Olive Bar? You’re on.” *

*

*

Jack Randolph eyed his assistant and wondered the best way to approach the topic of Lindsay Dannon. The woman was a beautiful mess. He’d been sharp with her in the meeting and knew his actions stemmed more from his own frustrated fantasies. Did she think he couldn’t recognize the hunger in every dreamy glance she cast his way? Or that Tegan was oblivious to what happened right under his nose? The man needed to take her in hand, control those wanton urges of hers. Simply put, Tegan needed to take care of business and reassert his claim on her. He’d fought his own desires since she’d started at the company two years ago. It had been easier to fight when the need was one-sided. But since last year’s annual holiday party, when she’d gotten a little tipsy, things had changed. Tegan had been home sick that week and hadn’t come to the party. So, at first, Jack had offered to take Lindsay home, as a favor to Tegan. He’d kept his hands on the wheel, even though his mind was firmly in the gutter. She’d ruined all his good intentions with a passionate, sloppy kiss that spiraled out of control. Sheer willpower stopped him from taking her in the front seat, driving himself into her, and teaching her the consequences of teasing a hungry beast. He knew what it felt like to be cheated on, and he wouldn’t do that to Tegan. He liked and respected the younger man too much for that. Which left him no choice but to offer a warning. “You need to have a chat with Ms. Dannon when you get home tonight.” 4

COMPULSION

Tegan paused mid-bite of his sandwich. “I’m more than happy to look the other way when it comes to the company policy on dating. So long as the couple are in a serious relationship.” “I don’t under—” “Damn it, man, she’s starting to wander! You need to rein her in. Or lose her.” He ran a hand through his hair. “Look, I know this is totally inappropriate. Who the hell am I to tell another man how to run his personal life? I indulged my wife’s need for an ‘open relationship’ until she decided she wanted my money more than me. Now she’s my exwife and probably cheating on her new husband.” He paused, shook his head. “This is my fault. I should have stopped this, reinforced the policy on inter-office dating the minute I heard the rumors and saw how the two of you are together.” He looked over at Tegan in apology. “How we are together? Jack, you’ve lost me completely. What are you talking about?” “Your relationship—affair—with Lindsay Dannon. I don’t want to see you get hurt. But she’s been giving signals a blind man couldn’t miss.” Tegan let loose a bark of laughter. When Jack didn’t join in, he said, “You’re serious, aren’t you?” “She sat through a fifty minute meeting and spent half of it eating me with her eyes. I’m warning you now, I know when a woman wants me, and your girlfriend definitely wants me.” “Wait a sec. Are you talking about Lindsay or Kelli?” “Lindsay Dannon. Who the hell is Kelli?” “My girlfriend. Lindsay’s best friend.” “So you’re…” “Just good friends with Lindsay. We’ve never dated.” “Great! I just made an ass of myself for nothing.” Relief washed 5

COMPULSION

away any lingering guilt. Tegan grinned. “I wouldn’t say nothing. Seems to me you just cleared a path. Oh, and by the way, she thinks she’s been circumspect and you don’t have a clue.” “She’s not dating anyone?” “No.” “We didn’t have this conversation.” “What conversation?” Tegan asked, as a conspiratorial look passed between them, man to man. Long after his assistant went home for the day, Jack sat in his leather chair staring at the final draft of the shareholder report on the upcoming merger. He rotated his neck, the muscles tight. Just another page, then he promised himself he’d leave it for Tegan to correct tomorrow. A knock on the door forced him to look up. “Come in.” “Sorry, but I saw the light on and I thought Tegan might still be here.” “It’s okay, Ms. Dannon. He left about three hours ago. What are you still doing here?” “I wanted to finish up some last minute paperwork.” She was doing it again. Staring at him like a cat eyeing a nice juicy salmon. He was tired of swimming upstream alone, fighting the current. This time he’d let himself be caught. He prayed she’d take her time devouring him. He stood, rubbed the back of his neck, and looked at her from beneath his lashes. She must have been in a hurry, because her lightweight sweater was inside-out, her soft brown hair flew in every direction, and a breath mint wrapper clung to her navy skirt. Part of him wanted to laugh. She really was a beautiful mess. The other part wanted to push her against a wall, strip off her ridiculous clothes, and fuck her from behind. 6

COMPULSION

She had a hungry vulnerability about her that called to something deep inside him…something he recognized too well. He shied away from the thought. “I was just getting ready to leave. Let me walk you out to your car.” He put the report back in the folder and grabbed his coat, not waiting for her response. He flipped off the lights and guided her from his office toward the bank of elevators beyond the frosted glass panels. As they waited, he noticed her shiver. “Are you cold?” He started to remove his jacket. “No! Umm, I mean, I’m fine, really. Oh look…the elevator’s here.” She hurried inside. What the hell was wrong with her? She acted nervous. Had he interpreted her signals wrong? No, he thought, remembering his earlier conversation with Tegan. He looked over at her as he got into the elevator and reached across to press the button for the ground floor. She bit her lower lip, worrying it with her teeth. His balls tightened, fixated on that lower lip. “You hungry?” He knew he was. And for far more than the potential dinner date he was suggesting. But he didn’t want to scare her off, or worse, get slapped with a sexual harassment lawsuit. *

*

*

Down girl! He probably didn’t mean that the way you think. Or did he? Had Tegan told him about her silly, insatiable crush? Damn it, she knew she shouldn’t have told him! Her mind raced. Should she pretend she didn’t hear him, or just go for it? Her nipples pebbled underneath her cream silk blouse. She closed her eyes and imagined reaching out to press the red stop button on the panel. The elevator would shudder to a halt. She’d slip off his jacket, slide her hands down to the waistband of his slacks, pull out the shirt tails, and slip her hands under the starched oxford cloth. His 7

COMPULSION

warm flesh would tremor under her touch. Then, she’d lean up on her toes to coax his lips open and take his mouth. A slight moan escaped before she could catch it. Had he heard? “Lindsay?” She’d have to explain. She could simply blurt out the entire sordid situation. Maybe he’d take pity on her. She didn’t ask for this, after all. But Jack Randolph inspired her wicked side. He was so damn hot she couldn’t stop the kinky daydreams about him. She knew she wasn’t his type. He probably had no interest in her. She recalled Tegan once saying that Jack’s ex-wife had been a sophisticated and svelte model-type. Her direct opposite. And there was the fact that he was her boss—hell, everyone’s boss at Randolph Systems. She looked up into his dark, amber eyes. Why did he have to be the one to ignite every sexual fantasy she had? Why couldn’t she have the hots for some harmless pencil-pusher like Edmonds in accounting? Sure would have made her life easier. “Lindsay?” She’d like to rub her nipples across that five o’clock stubble on his cheek, tease his lips open, feel the wet warmth of his mouth as he sucked her puckered nubs. Damn, she had to stop this madness… “Stop imagining him with his clothes off!” “Excuse me?” She pictured throwing him on the conference table in front of everyone and boinking like a crazed rabbit, while he muttered, “Ms. Dannon, do you want to be home checking want ads?” and the daydream fizzled. I must be insane to keep having these fantasies about him—he’s such an ass. Jack Randolph is a… “…massive dickhead control-freak, but all you can think about is what it would feel like to have him push you against a wall and shove his cock deep inside you. Squeeze your breasts, and pound into your 8

COMPULSION

tight…” She suddenly noticed the stunned look on his face. “Oh geeze, tell me I didn’t say any of that out loud? Oh, hell. You’re going to fire me now, aren’t you?” Wonderful. Mortally embarrassed. No job, no money. And now her boss thought she was a deviant with a dirty mouth. She could kiss any letter of recommendation goodbye. “I’m not going to fire—” “You will. You have to. I’m a sick woman with a filthy mind. I might turn into a mental case, a stalker.” “Are you going to attack my body?” He leaned in, trapped her neatly against the elevator wall. One hand reached out to press the red stop button. “N-no.” The elevator shuddered to a halt. “Pity.” He nudged her thighs open with his knee, his breath hot against the nape of her neck. “Someone might see!” She squirmed to move under his arm. The frosted glass might hide their identities, but certainly not their actions. A frisson of fear mixed with sheer excitement raced through her veins. The wanton inside her wanted others to see, and fought with her other self—the nervous young woman who agonized that someone might actually see it all. Lindsay watched him throw his jacket over a tiny camera eye in the corner, effectively blocking security’s view. He pulled her into his arms, slid his hands over the curve of her hips, sank his fingers into the cheeks of her rear end, cupping her through the navy fabric. He gave them a gentle squeeze, while his lips pressed against her neck and throat. She wanted to pinch herself just to make sure she hadn’t slipped past reality and slammed full throttle into psychosis. At least her two halves weren’t conflicted about one thing. Both wanted Jack. “Stop me. Tell me no now and I’ll quit. Otherwise…” 9

COMPULSION

Tingles raced up and down her spine. She shuddered, knees already weak, even before he found her erogenous zone and began lapping at the delicate spot with his tongue. She clutched at his tie in answer, unknotted it, and slid it from under his collar. She meant to discard it, but before she could throw it on the floor, he grabbed the tie and her wrists, turned her around, and bound her hands to the brass railing. “What are you doing?” This hadn’t been part of her daydreams! “Fulfilling a fantasy of mine. You know all about fantasies, don’t you Lindsay? You just told me some of yours.” “Ohmygawd.” She ran the words into three indistinct syllables. Nothing in her tame past prepared her for the sensual onslaught of a Jack attack. He kicked her feet farther apart, forcing her legs to spread wider and her navy skirt to hike up her thighs. He lifted the hem higher, around her hips, slid a hand along one of her inner thighs. The other hand caressed her back and shoulders, pressing down ever so slightly, bending her so that her forehead touched her bound wrists. She gasped when he slid a finger under the crotch of her silk panties and teased her clit. Exposed, helpless and so empty, she needed him to fill her up. “You’re very wet, Lindsay. Eager for me?” “Please…ohh…” He pulled her panties down around her ankles and had her step out of them. “I’m keeping these as a memento.” His hands caressed her ankles, then calves. The fingers were slightly callused. Not all his muscles came from a gym. The stray thought made her shiver. She heard the slow drag of metal teeth on a zipper and tried to turn around, but couldn’t. “No. I want you to concentrate on the sensation of what I’m doing 10

COMPULSION

to you.” He rubbed the wet tip of his shaft at her apex, and rested a hand on her lower back, urging her to bend even lower. She moaned and pulled at the tie that bound her hands. He could do anything he pleased to her, and she would be helpless to deny him. Lindsay trembled, her breath growing ragged, anticipating the heavy thrust of his cock. She closed her eyes and waited. Instead, she felt him bend, turn and shift, then a warm breath of air stirred the curls between her legs. “Open your eyes, Lindsay, and look down.” She glanced down through the narrow space between the railing and the elevator wall. He shot her a wicked smile, then buried his face in her pussy. “Ohh…mmm…” A bright coil inside her tightened, spiraled from head to toe. She couldn’t think, couldn’t say a word. Everything was reduced to moans and mewling cries of intense pleasure. His tongue worried her clit, nibbled, licked, and sucked until liquid heat trickled down the soft skin of her inner thighs. He replaced his tongue with his fingers, and she thought she’d been given a reprieve. A chance to mentally gather herself. Instead, he pushed his fingers deep inside her and fluttered them back and forth. He angled his head once more, to lick and suck at the rosy nub of her clit. “Oh, sweet mercy!” The room darkened, narrowed to a point of sudden clarity. She belonged to him. And to the sexual urgency that built between them. When her knees threatened to buckle, he moved behind her again. She heard the sound of a foil packet being ripped, and whimpered when he teased the virgin spot between the curve of her cheeks. “Not today. But soon, Lindsay. Very soon.” His fingers bit into her hips, urged her backward, just as he thrust home. Pressed so tight, he left her little room to maneuver. The slow and steady rhythm he built drove her crazy. She had to move. Now. She 11

COMPULSION

tried to kick off her heels, gain some leverage. And only succeeded in breaking the heel off one of her pumps, sending the other shoe airborne. It slapped the opposite wall, then bounced to the floor. The broken shoe stayed on her foot with stubborn determination. “What are you trying to do? Kick me in the balls?” He grunted with the effort to question her and maintain his pace. “I can’t take it. You’ve got to go faster.” Great, now she was offbalance and being fucked to within an inch of her life. In her fantasies, she never experienced shoe disasters. Everything always went smooth, without mishap. “Like this?” He released her hips and wrapped his hands around the brass railing on either side of her body. The pressure increased as he rammed his cock harder, hips pumping. “Oh, yeah…” Of course, in her fantasies, the thick, punishing cock wasn’t real. And real was so much better. Nebulous shimmers of color arced behind her closed eyes, the twisted, aching need sinking bone deep. The first wave of spasms hit her full force and sent her keening. Her pussy clenched hard on his cock, gripping him at every thrust. He groaned, shuddered with his climax, and released the rail. Cool air brushed the backs of her thighs and her ass. He staggered backward. Her legs had more in common with spaghetti noodles right now than flesh and bone. She slid to her knees, her hands still bound. Eyes closed, she heard the elastic of the rubber being pulled off, the rustle of clothes, and the sound of a zipper. “Sorry. I forgot to untie you.” He moved forward, made quick work of the tie, and shoved it in his pocket. She took several calming breaths, then crawled over to pick up her wayward shoe, not trusting her legs to support her just yet. Had she just made the biggest mistake of her life? He acted so matter-of-fact, so freaking normal. So calm. Had it been a mistake? God, she hoped not. 12

COMPULSION

Jack reached out a hand and helped her to her feet…then simply held her. He scanned her features, returning again to her eyes. What did he see in them? In her? Why wasn’t he saying anything? Surely he’d felt the same explosive power, the same grinding ache to get closer. Hadn’t he? She knew she should say something. She rubbed her wrists, waiting for him to make the next move. The moment stretched. He opened his mouth to speak— The awkward silence abruptly ended. “Elevator two. Is there an emergency?” She jumped at the sound of the disembodied voice and quickly straightened her skirt. Great. Now she’d never know what he’d been about to say! “No. No emergency.” Jack retrieved his coat and smiled into the security camera. She cast a quick, sideways glance at him. He stood confidant—and more sexy to her than ever. Oh, God, she must be a nymphomaniac! She was a little sore, but already looking forward to the next round— wait! Would there even be a next time? Or had this been a one time fling? Hell, it still seemed incredible, like one of her freaky, sexual daydreams. If so, her fantasy had come to life and taken her breath away. No one would believe her if she told them. She, plain and plump Lindsay Dannon, had just been tied to a brass rail and boinked from behind in an elevator by none other than Jack Randolph. Even her friends would think her deranged, would think her fantasy life was bleeding into reality—a naughty, kinkier reality. She hoped she never recovered. A proper woman would be embarrassed, not envisioning another round with Mr. Hot Stuff. Then again, a proper woman wouldn’t have enjoyed it, begged and pleaded for more. She let out a small sigh. 13

COMPULSION

Maybe she should give him her number? Or better yet, act aloof and sophisticated, like the type of women he usually dated. Tall, chignonwearing blondes. Women who could fuck without breaking a single high heel. The security guard sounded surprised. “Oh, Mr. Randolph. It’s you. Everything okay in there?” “Just fine…heading home for the night.” “Night, sir.” She clutched her shoe in front of her and pressed the button for the parking garage on level A. Just like that, their moment was gone. *

*

*

Jack smiled to himself, pleased with the night’s unexpected turn. He glanced over at Lindsay. Her usually pale cheeks were flushed with color and her eyes gleamed. She’d never looked more beautiful. She bent to slide her foot into her shoe, and wobbled. He reached out to steady her. “Thanks.” When the elevator doors opened, she stepped out, and hobbled in the direction of her car. Her less than graceful exit forced a chuckle from him. “Lindsay.” She turned around. “Might be better to take off both shoes.” “What about broken glass? Nails? Gum?” “I have an idea. My car is closer. I could drive you to yours…or we could leave it here, and I’ll drive you home.” “Then how would I get to work tomorrow?” Was she considering it? God, he hoped so. “I suppose that would depend on where you slept tonight.” “Aren’t you concerned this—” She flexed her finger, pointing to him, then herself, “is going a little fast?” “It doesn’t feel fast to me. In fact, it feels just right.” He walked 14

COMPULSION

toward her. “This didn’t just happen to us, Lindsay. Don’t try to deny it…you’ve been dreaming about something like this happening between us for a while now. And so have I.” He stopped a few feet short of her. “We can take it further. Explore every single fantasy together.” “You’ve been dreaming of me? Before tonight, I didn’t know you’d even thought of me, except as a warm body filling a seat.” She chewed her lower lip. He knew his offer to satisfy her every desire got her interest. She was debating. Tempted. She took one step forward. “No strings attached?” “No strings…unless you count a silk tie or two.” His cock twitched. “What about the company’s rules on dating?” “I’m pretty sure our “date” in the elevator already broke a few company rules. But I wouldn’t worry about it. I made the rules. I can unmake them.” She took off her shoes. “For it to be officially a date, I’ll expect dinner, and possibly breakfast.” “I think that can be arranged.” He closed the few steps distance and scooped her into his arms. “What are you doing? Put me down.” “Call me suspicious, but I don’t want to come back after I get my car and find out you had second thoughts and disappeared on me. Plus, there is the matter of those nails, shattered glass and— What was it?” “Gum.” She stopped wiggling in his arms and wrapped her hands together behind his neck. “Ah, yes…gum.” He lowered his head. Just a kiss to keep the fire stoked. He pulled his mouth away a few seconds later, adjusted his hold on her, and thought about the fact that only the thin navy skirt she wore separated him from touching her bare ass. He glanced down into her face. Her eyes were closed…a smile played on her lips. 15

COMPULSION

He imagined waking up every morning to that smile of hers. A rush of pure delight settled in his chest. He had to forcefully remind himself that she’d made him promise there would be no strings. His car was easy to find in the near-empty garage. “Reach in my left pocket and grab my keys for me.” His breath caught as her hand fondled his hard length through the fabric. “Okay, that’s not the keys. What you’re searching for is a little smaller.” “A lot smaller.” She winked, a wicked grin on her lips. A second later, she snagged the keys and jangled them in front of his face. He managed to set her on the trunk of his car and snatch the keys away. She scooted forward and ran a finger down his jaw. “That your first time doing it in an elevator?” she asked, her tone light. “Yes.” “You did it quite well.” “Thank you. You seemed rather talented yourself.” “Oh, I’m a first timer, too. But I’ve always been a fast learner.” He backed up a step. If he didn’t give himself some breathing room, she’d be naked on the trunk of his car in a minute. “Want to hear some of my more erotic fantasies?” His balls ached, and his cock was now fully erect, eager to hear every dirty little secret she had. “I think we should save that for later. I don’t want to give the guys in security a peep show.” He unlocked the car and held the door open. “Spoil sport.” A few minutes later, they were on the highway, headed east. “Ever done it in a car?” He glanced over at her. “Not since I turned twenty-one. Back seat sex is highly overrated. Especially when you’re six-foot-five, and pushing forty.” 16

COMPULSION

She turned around to look at the cramped area. “I see what you mean—at least about the height thing. As for the age, well, forty isn’t that old, and you’re very fit. Nice muscles.” She moved her hand to rest against his thigh…and stroked upward. He groaned, swerving the car a little at the unexpected caress. “If you plan to continue that, I’ll have to pull off the road.” “Sorry. I just thought since the back seat is out, then a little front seat sex might be fun.” He shifted in the seat, his pants tight across his swollen cock. “No touching me while I’m driving. It’s not safe.” He glanced over at her. The twinkle in her eyes and mischievous look on her face was his only warning. She inched her skirt up her thighs. Those oh-so-naughty fingers of hers caressed her thighs, parted the slippery folds of her pussy, and slowly stroked her clit. Her other hand unbuttoned her blouse, slid under the camisole, and tweaked first one nipple, then the other. “I said to stop. It’s not safe.” “You said to stop touching you. I did. You never said anything about me not touching myself.” His mouth went dry. He forced his attention back to the road and saw a green sign. Almost nine more miles until his turn-off. He wouldn’t last that long. She moaned, arching her back, her fingers buried deep. “Want to know what I think about when I touch myself?” His hand strayed to the bulge in his slacks. He fought to keep his eyes focused on the road. “Tell me.” “Us on the conference room table, your slacks pushed down around your knees, me on top riding you, sliding up and down on that huge cock of yours.” He stroked the length of his shaft, and readjusted his balls. “Sometimes I imagine we’re in your office, and you have me 17

COMPULSION

pushed against a wall, trapped by your hard body. My blouse is on the floor and you’re kneading my breasts, undoing my bra, and sucking my nipples. There’s a knock on the door. Whoever it is could walk in on us at any minute. Catch us in the act.” His breath grew ragged. The pulse in his neck throbbed, and blood rushed to his already swollen cock. He looked over at her. She licked her fingers, rolled her nipples playfully, and smiled at him. The hand between her legs had increased its pace. “But I won’t let you pull away. The doorknob is turning. I unzip your slacks, take your cock out, and slide down, impaling myself all the way to the base of that thick shaft of yours. You start thrusting into me, and the doorknob is still turning. You’re slamming me against the wall, fucking me hard…fast…ohhh…deep, so deep. I’ve got my legs wrapped around your waist, and you’re driving into me until I cry, until I scream how good it feels. Oh…ohh….yes.” She threw her head back, moaning. Then nothing but silence, a sweet womanly musk in the air, and a tight ache in his balls. He gripped his cock, squeezing hard, trying to stop the inevitable. Only three miles to go. Time to go on the offensive. “You like to talk dirty about having sex out in the open where anyone could see. But it’s all talk, isn’t it? Back in the elevator you were shy about security possibly seeing us. I think you’re faking.” “I don’t fake orgasms.” “Oh, you’re honest about that. But are you really willing to take a risk? Should I test my theory. What would you do if I pulled off the road? Parked?” “Try me,” she challenged him. He took the next exit and drove until the lights grew dim. Then pulled onto a gravel road. A mile later, he turned left. The silence stretched into minutes. “Where the hell are you taking me? The woods?” 18

COMPULSION

Her voice held an odd quiver. Half-fearful, half-excited. He pulled onto the shoulder and cut the engine. “Come here.” Her eyes opened wide, realizing they’d stopped and were parked in the middle of nowhere. He unzipped his slacks. The head of his thick shaft poked out from underneath his briefs. “What—what are going to do?” “You said ‘try me.’ I think I’m about to make my point.” He lifted his cock, stroking it, daring her. “I see your ‘point.’” She moved closer and flicked her tongue over the velvet crown. Her teeth nibbled a gentle path along his shaft until she met the waistband of his briefs. “Lift up your hips,” she ordered, one hand already sneaking inside to cup and roll his balls. He took a deep, shuddering breath, pulled his pants down, and thrust upward, driving his cock into her warm, welcoming mouth, deep as he could go. Her head bobbed, setting the pace and rhythm. She jerked away her head and swirled her tongue over his balls before sucking them into her mouth. Damn, she’s making me crazy. He growled low in warning and guided her head back up and over his cock. “No more teasing, Lindsay. Prove me wrong.” Her hand wrapped around his shaft, stroking him, while the other hand continued to play with his balls. He felt the wet warmth of her mouth sucking him dry as his hips lifted off the seat, and his cock pistoned, disappearing between her hungry lips. Tension spiraled into release. He groaned and flooded her throat, watched as it dripped from the corners of her lips. He brushed her hair back from her face and lifted her chin. Her eyes were gleaming. “I’ve been thinking about this for over a year, wondering what your 19

COMPULSION

lips would feel like wrapped around my dick.” “And…” “It’s better than I imagined.” *

*

*

A hand on her shoulder shook her awake. She hadn’t realized she’d dozed off. “Sorry about that. I didn’t mean to fall asleep.” “You had a busy night.” Humorous inflection laced his words. She yawned, opened the car door, and got her first glance at the house where Jack lived. It wasn’t what she’d expected. Instead of a sprawling mansion, she saw a huge log cabin-style lodge surrounded by trees. “Oh, Jack, it’s beautiful!” “Thanks. I built it myself. Worked on it almost every weekend for three years.” He unlocked and pushed the heavy front door wide. As he held it open for her, he watched her, appearing eager to see her reaction. She looked around. “No animal heads. I approve.” “I like getting away from the city, being surrounded by nature. But I’m not a hunter.” She tried to picture his ex-wife, the sophisticated blonde, living here with him, and couldn’t. “If you want to freshen up, the downstairs bathroom is the second door to your right.” He pointed out the room. “I’ll be right back.” Lindsay splashed water on her face, tidied up, and found a guestsized bottle of minty mouthwash in the medicine cabinet, along with a couple of extra razors. She swooshed the mouthwash, gargled, and rinsed out the cap. The sound of pots and pans clanged in the kitchen. She walked up behind him and took an appreciative sniff. “I didn’t know you cooked.” 20

COMPULSION

“Cobb salad’s about it. Hope that’s okay.” “Sounds wonderful. Anything I can do to help?” “Want to chop up some of the vegetables while I cube the ham?” “Works for me.” She studied him under her lashes as they worked in companionable silence, preparing the meal. Jack seemed like a totally different person from the uptight, hard-ass workaholic she knew. More open and easy going…relaxed. Even happy. She liked to think she had something to do with that. Maybe the guy just needs to get laid more often. The thought made her smile. Still, she wondered if he’d been this way with his ex. Why any woman would divorce a man so incredibly sexy and passionate, she couldn’t comprehend. He had a gentle side, too, and was considerate. But he could also be rough. A delicious shiver ran from her breasts to the juncture of her thighs at the memory of just how rough and thorough he could be. Perhaps the ex saw too much of the hard-ass workaholic and not enough of the passionate man underneath? None of her business. Tegan had assured her Jack’s relationship with his ex-wife was completely over. Tegan. Kelli. Damn! She should have thought to call before now. Kelli would be worried. She pulled her cell phone from her purse and tried to make the call. “Jack? You mind if I use your phone? Mine’s not getting a signal. I need to call Kelli and tell her I’m spending the night at a friend’s place, so she doesn’t worry.” “Sure. There’s a phone in the living room.” “Thanks.” “Lindsay? Are you planning to tell her which friend?” “No. I figured you wouldn’t want anyone to know.” “For now, it’s probably for the best.” 21

COMPULSION

She glanced around the living room and saw the phone on a table near the sofa. The answering machine picked up on the fourth ring. “Kelli, it’s me. Sorry I’m so late calling, but I didn’t want you to worry. I’m staying over at a friend’s house tonight. I’ll see you tomorrow after—” “Hold on! Stop it, Tee,” Kelli said into the receiver. “Hey, Lindsay. Where are you?” “Is Tegan there?” “Yeah. He’s pestering me for sex. I was about to give in when you called.” “Oops. Sorry.” “So, where are you? Damn, I wish I hadn’t cancelled the Called ID. Do I know this so-called friend?” “You’ve never met. It’s a recent thing. Look, I have to go. Talk to you tomorrow.” “You aren’t foolin’ anyone. I’ll expect details, woman. Lots and lots of details.” “Tell Tee I’ll see him tomorrow at work. Bye.” She replaced the phone and accidentally knocked the remote control onto the carpeted floor. When she bent to pick it up, she spied a large paperback book, one corner peeking out from under the sofa. Looked like Jack had been reading and maybe dropped it in his sleep. She picked it up and read the back cover blurb. It was one of those deliciously wicked erotic romances. She flipped it over to see the cover. The hero was tall, dark-haired, bare-chested, hot as sin, and looked a lot like Jack. The heroine sat on the male model’s lap, while he sank his fangs into the nape of her neck. Kinky. So, Jack liked vamp erotica. As long as he didn’t bite too hard, she’d be happy to help him act out the fantasy. She already knew she liked his elevator moves. 22

COMPULSION

As she placed the book on the table, a photograph fluttered into her lap. How did he get his hands on this? The picture showed her at last year’s holiday office party. She wore that low-cut fuzzy red sweater with the Santa Clause collar and the matching red skirt her sister had sent. The sparkly red bow in her hair drooped, her eyes seemed focused…or rather unfocused, on the large bunch of mistletoe that hung over the conference room door. A plastic straw was tucked behind one of her ears, and she appeared to be conversing with an empty chair. She made a mental note to give him a better picture to use as a bookmark. One that didn’t show her sloshed. Had they kissed under the mistletoe? She couldn’t remember. She slid the photo back in the book. “Thought you might have run into some trouble finding it.” “No. I find trouble just fine. I told Kelli I was at a sleepover.” “Cute.” He put a finger under her chin, tilted her face at the perfect angle, and leaned forward for a kiss. She leaned back, smiling. “We could have a pajama party and play games later.” “Strip poker?” “If you play your cards right.” He stole a quick kiss. “Saucy wench.” “So, you gonna feed me or let me starve?” *

*

*

Later, she helped stack the few dishes they’d used in the dishwasher, and went to sit on his lap on the sofa. The night had already exceeded her wildest fantasies. She still couldn’t get over the fact that she was actually here. In Jack’s private retreat—his home— with him. And he wasn’t calling security on her. “You know, if you have any fantasies you’d like to share, feel free.” She wanted to please him, and herself, for more than just a single night. 23

COMPULSION

But it was too early to think of keeping her spare toothbrush and pink electric razor in his medicine cabinet…wasn’t it? “Hmm, tempting offer.” He nuzzled her neck and kissed her behind an ear. Shivers danced down her spine. She squirmed on his lap. “Ticklish?” “No, but kissing me there definitely does something to me.” “Good, I hope.” “Oh, yeah, very good.” “What about this? Does this do something good to you?” He ran his hand under her skirt, teased the curls with his fingers, and licked a spot on the nape of her neck. She jumped, twisting on his lap. He slid one finger inside her, pulled it out, and slowly circled her clit. He repeated the motion again and again, until her legs were shaking. “Jack…please.” “I like to watch you come.” She tried to swing her legs around so that she could straddle him, impale herself just like in her fantasies. He pushed her legs farther apart, but wouldn’t let her ride him. Instead, he unbuttoned her blouse and skirt, pulled them off, and threw them on the floor, along with her bra. “You’re still dressed. Aren’t you going to take your clothes off?” She ran a finger around the collar of his shirt, undid a button, then another, and slid her palm beneath the fabric, caressed the warm, muscled wall of his chest. His hands rested on her inner thighs. “Keep them open for me.” The back of his hand glided in a caress toward her mons. His thumb brushed her clit and his fingers slipped inside her pussy. She whimpered, the tide of orgasm lapping at her, but still just out of reach. “Come for me, Lindsay. Come for me, and I’ll give you what you 24

COMPULSION

want, what you need.” He stroked harder, faster. His callused thumb pressed tight circles over her nub. Soon, his thumb was replaced by the heel of his other hand. She thrashed, and her eyes squeezed tight as sensation after sensation shook her. He pinched her clit, rolled it between his thumb and forefinger. Pleasure and pain mingled into an intoxicating rush. His fingers continued to plunge in and out in swift motion. Unable to help it, she heard herself sob brokenly, desperate to rotate on his lap, shove that glorious, tumid cock deep inside, instead of his fingers. “Come on, Lindsay. I need to feel your slick heat, hear you scream as I give you an orgasm.” “Ooo…oh, oh fuck!” She tossed her head back and forth. “Uhhnn…ohh, I’m coming.” Her body bucked on his lap. “Yeah, that’s it, Lindsay. Look at me, honey. Open your eyes.” He repositioned her on the sofa so he could take off the rest of his clothes. God, she wanted to touch him, caress him, kiss him everywhere. His pupils were dilated, sweat beaded on his body. He reached into his pants pocket, pulled out a condom, and carefully rolled it on. “Earlier you asked about some of my fantasies.” He tossed her a wicked grin. “What do you have in mind?” He walked to an oversized recliner and sat down. “Come sit on my lap. But I want you facing the fireplace, not me.” She wiggled her ass as a tease and scooted onto his lap. She smiled when she heard him groan. It was her turn to groan as he opened a control panel on the armrest. The chair reclined and started to shake. He lifted her hips, bent her slightly forward, and thrust his cock into her pussy from behind. 25

COMPULSION

“Ride it, cowgirl. You can pretend I’m a wild bronco while I buck you.” She tried not to giggle. His balls slapped the backs of her thighs, and the vibration from the chair made her clit pulse. Any urge to laugh melted under the dual attack. “Rub your clit for me,” he whispered. She slammed backward at his every pummeling thrust, her fingers tweaking her clit, stroking. His hands dug into her ass, his cock drove into her pussy. They both cried out at the same time, in a perfect moment of sexual release. Later, as she climbed the stairs to his bedroom, she thought she might as well be climbing Mount Everest. Her legs sure couldn’t tell the difference. She’d never felt so drained in her life. Jack had picked up their clothes off the floor, his eyes droopy with sleep, then told her to follow him. She’d thought she was all sexed out, but she still had an appreciative spark left over. She’d been so impressed with his front attributes, she’d not given enough appreciation to his back assets. Good Lord, the man had rump dimples! Her dreams tonight would feature those delectable dimples, she felt sure. She was too exhausted to spend time mulling over the nagging thoughts tugging at her mind. Thoughts like how the hell could she work with him, side by side, and still keep their liaison a secret? How having had sex might change the dynamics of their working relationship. She slid naked between the cool sheets and felt the bed give as he got in beside her. He slung an arm around her waist and pulled her close for a sleepy kiss. It will all work out, she told herself. It had to, because she wasn’t giving up Jack. Her lips curved in a sleepy smile at 26

COMPULSION

the play on words. Oh yeah, she was tired—goofy with it. She closed her eyes, and within seconds joined him in sleep. *

*

*

Lindsey spooned the bowl of French onion soup sitting in front of her. She didn’t eat it so much as play with it. Tegan sat across from her, saying something. She knew she should listen to him, but she kept thinking about how Jack had awakened that morning. About how he’d hauled her into the shower, stepped in behind her, poured bath gel in his hands, and proceeded to glide his fingers over every inch of her, until lather covered her skin. He paid special attention to her breasts, working her nipples into tight little nubs. She returned the favor, made sure he was hard as rock and squeaky clean. He backed her against the wet tiles, then lifted her off the shower floor with the force of his hard thrusts. For once, it wasn’t one of her usual naughty daydreams, but a memory of the real thing. She took a deep breath and ate some of the soup. “Glad to see you decided to try it instead of just stirring it with your spoon.” “I’m sorry, Tee. Guess I’ve got a lot on my mind.” “So give. What’s worrying you? Or is it something else, hmm? Possibly someone else?” “I don’t know what you mean.” “Right. The big guy comes in with a huge grin on his face, then drinks two pots of coffee to keep awake. He had those reports ready for me to correct…tells me he stayed late at the office.” Tee winked. “So?” “You stayed late I hear. And didn’t come home last night.” “I told Kelli I spent the night at a friend’s.” “And didn’t get much sleep, judging by the circles under your eyes. And then there’s the fact that you’re wearing the same clothes you did 27

COMPULSION

yesterday. Also, I noticed you’re wearing the sneakers you keep in your desk drawer, and not your usual heels. Must be a reason your ‘friend’ didn’t stop by the apartment with you last night so you could get a change of clothes.” “Geeze, you’re worse than a little old, gossipy lady.” “Did I mention Bob in security found a discarded, used condom in one of the elevators?” Lindsay choked on her soup. She grabbed her soda and took a swig. “I thought so. Congratulations. You finally got your man.” “It’s not like we have a relationship. And you have to keep it to yourself. I told him I wouldn’t tell anyone.” “You didn’t tell me. I guessed.” He polished off his onion and mushroom burger. “When are you seeing him again?” “You’re worse than Kelli. Look, it didn’t mean anything. We agreed, no strings.” “Okay, okay. I had to ask. Kelli made me promise. See, we have to get our thrills vicariously through you.” “I doubt that. The two of you have a love life. I didn’t have a real love life until last night.” “You used the “L” word.” “No I didn’t.” “You did. Big as day. Love.” He smiled. “Not funny, Tee. I meant you and Kelli.” “Lindsay, you’ve been half in love with the guy for almost two years. You were bound to fall the rest of the way. Give it a chance. He’s a good man.” “He’s better than merely good.” “No offense, but TMI. You can share all that girly stuff with Kelli when you get home tonight. You are coming home tonight, right?” “Maybe, probably. At least for a change of clothes.” “Good idea. Don’t want anyone to get suspicious.” He eyed her side 28

COMPULSION

plate. “Now, you gonna eat that bread roll or what?” She laughed and handed it to him. “By the way, I wouldn’t fixate on that whole no strings thing. If there is one fact I know about Jack Randolph, it’s that he makes it a point to wrap plenty of strings around whatever he wants and then binds it tight. And when it comes to private relationships, I’d bet he’s like that even more so. Especially now.” “What’s that supposed to mean?” “Well, you know about his ex, right? She insisted on an open relationship, then took it too far, once too often. He found her on the kitchen floor, screwing his cousin. He divorced her quick.” “Ouch. I thought she divorced him?” “Other way around. Funny he should mention no strings to you.” Lindsay sighed. “I think I messed up. I’m the one who said no strings. I only said it so he wouldn’t think I’m some pathetic, insecure, clingy female.” “Which we all know you are,” Tegan joked. “I thought you were my friend!” “I am.” He took out his wallet and left a tip for the waitress. “You ready to head back to work?” “Might as well.” She stood, stretched, and leaned forward to kiss him on the cheek. “Thanks for listening. And for all the male perspective and advice over the years.” “No problem.” *

*

*

Lindsay stared at the phone. She’d thought for sure Jack would have stopped by her office or called her before he left for good. Over a week had passed, and Tee said Jack had been busier—and grouchier than usual—probably due to the impending merger. Then today, he’d called a meeting to announce that the board of directors of both companies had approved the deal and it would be made public 29

COMPULSION

later that day. He’d chosen to look directly at her as he dropped his little bombshell—that he’d sold his shares in the company as part of the deal and had officially stepped down from his position as president and CEO. The room buzzed. People shook his hand, said their goodbyes, while she’d sat there stunned. “You’re really leaving?” she’d asked him. He’d looked at her, acting as if he wanted to memorize her features. “It was time. I’d done all I could to build the company, now it needs someone else at the helm to guide it and help it grow.” She’d wanted to ask what went wrong between them, why he hadn’t called, but she’d chickened out. Instead, she’d offered a banal congratulations. Now, Lindsay glanced at her watch. It was past six. She should have left an hour ago, but she’d waited, hoping he’d call before he left. Had she done or said something to ruin what they had? The phone rang, and her heart jumped. “Hello. Lindsay Dannon.” “Lindsay, Jack asked me to call you, see if you were still here. Could you come up?” “Yes, be there in a minute.” “Lindsay, just thought you’d like to know, I’m leaving now to pick up Kelli. The rest of the offices on this floor have cleared out…including the conference room. Good luck.” “Thanks, Tee.” She stepped into the frosted glass elevator, pushed the button for the fortieth floor, and gripped the brass rail until her knuckles were white. The doors opened. She started to walk across the hall to Jack’s office, then saw a light coming from inside the conference room. Odd. Then she recalled how Tee had made special mention of the meeting room being empty. 30

COMPULSION

“Jack, are you in here?” “Come in, Lindsay. And leave the door open.” He sat on the edge of the long table, black slacks unbelted, his oxford cloth shirt undone. His impeccably groomed hair looked a little less than perfect. Like he’d run his hands through it more than once and messed it up. An entire week without a word, and all he could say was to leave the door open? Fine. She hoped anyone still in the building could hear her. Because she was about to give Mr. Jack Ass a piece of her mind. No matter how deliciously half-dressed, or yummy he looked sitting there. His expression was part hopeful, part hungry. She noticed the vertical blinds were pulled back, exposing the windows and the darkening sky. She could see the lights of the city, and the bay. It was a romantic view. Too bad she couldn’t take advantage of it. “Why have you ignored me? I know you’ve been busy, but I thought you would have at least called once.” She hated the hint of whiny accusation in her voice. “I needed time to think. Plus, I got good and pissed.” He ran a hand through his hair. “I saw you with Tegan at the Olive Bar. I overheard him mention to his girlfriend that he was having lunch with you that day. I didn’t think anything of it. I knew you were friends. I thought I’d stop by and surprise you. It was a spur of the moment thing. But I got there late…just in time to see you kiss him.” He held up his hand to stop her from protesting. “I knew after I calmed down that I’d misread the whole thing—a simple kiss on the cheek. But it forced me to reexamine how far I wanted to take this.” “Any conclusions?” She held her breath. Her stomach a jumble of knots. “I had an open relationship once. My ex-wife liked to flaunt her sexual partners in front of me. She’d tell me every sordid, kinky detail 31

COMPULSION

of what she’d just done with another man. I knew what she was like and had agreed to her no strings rule before we got married. And I pretended to enjoy hearing it, getting off on it…to make her happy…to keep her.” “Oh. I heard about your wife and your cousin. I’m sorry.” “Yeah. I think that was it for me. I wanted out. And I knew myself better. I’m not the kind of guy who likes relationships without strings. That next morning with you, in the shower, I knew I wanted plenty of strings, hell…rope, possibly handcuffs.” He held out his hands. She placed her hands in his, and he pulled her into his arms. “I only said I wanted no strings, ’cause I always thought that’s what most guys wanted, and I didn’t want to scare you off. I guess you don’t scare easily.” “So long as you don’t make a habit out of kissing other men, I think we’ll be fine.” He started unbuttoning her blouse. “How do you feel about your job?” “What?” Not what she’d expected him to say. Had she been fired after all? “I thought you might like to take a few months off. You could maybe move in with me? We could do some traveling. And if you get bored, we could play around with the idea of starting a new business, building it together.” “You realize I do have a propensity for taking risks, and I have more of those kinky fantasies to satisfy, don’t you? Like giving you a blow job in the park. Having you fuck me on a beach…or underneath bleachers.” “Speaking of fantasies needing satisfied…” “Ooh, I’d hoped that was why the lights were on in here.” She shrugged out of her blouse, stepped out of her heels, and pushed them to the side. He lay back on the table, his elbows propped behind him, so he could fully see her strip-tease. 32

COMPULSION

Lindsay took her time sliding down the zipper of her skirt. She turned around and bent over as she shimmied. The fabric glided over her curves to land in a pool at her feet. He groaned. Next she undid the clasp of her bra and held the front cups as she turned back around. “Oh, that’s nice.” “Thought you’d like that,” she said, squeezing her breasts before she tossed her bra at him. She sat on the table, between his parted legs, and rolled her stockings down her legs in a smooth, slow motion. She tossed them over her shoulder. They fluttered onto his stomach. A quick glance told her he watched…avidly. “I’m going to take your clothes off now.” She turned, licked her lips, and knelt on the table. He grabbed her hand. “Be rough if you like. Use me,” his voice almost a growl. “Oh, I will.” With that, she pulled his shirt free of his waistband and let it rip, buttons flying. She ran her fingers across his firm chest, lingering on the flat male nipples, giving them a tweak. He arched his back, thrusting his hips forward. Lindsay continued her path, grazing his taut abdomen with her nails. She unzipped his slacks using the same enticing speed she had on her zippered skirt. Her greedy hands reached inside his pocket, found the packets of condoms, and took one out. He lifted his hips again, this time so she could removed his pants and briefs. Finally, he was naked and all hers. She tore open the foil pack with her teeth and rolled it over the crown and down his thick shaft. Her body shifted to close his legs and straddle him. She rubbed his cock with her silk covered pussy. She liked the friction, the barrier, and wondered when he’d have enough teasing and rip off her panties. She reached a hand between them to caress his balls. Jack moved 33

COMPULSION

under her, his head thrown back, his mouth open. Any minute now. She ground harder on his cock, tormenting him, teasing him. His elbows slid out and he lay completely flat on the table. His hands shot out to grip her ass, cup her under the panties. She felt when they ripped. He pulled the torn silk from between them. She sank onto his cock and rode him in earnest. He slammed upward with punishing strength. The quiver started in her belly and thighs, met in the middle, and sent wave after wave of heat lapping her pussy. She arched her back, cried out, and collapsed on top of him. He continued to pump into her. A guttural moan escaped his throat. Jack flipped them over, slid free of her, and hauled her to her feet. “Wha—?” He pushed her against the thick glass windows. “Wrap your legs around my waist.” When she did as he asked, he plunged in deep, to the hilt, again and again. She bit her lip, and tried to stop from whimpering, but it was too much. The force of their mutual orgasm knocked them both to their knees. Someone coughed. She looked at Jack, he looked at her. Then they both looked toward the open door. A janitor stood in the doorway, smiling, “I’ll come back later.” “Ohmygawd.” Heat rushed up her neck. “Looks like we got caught. Guess it’s a good thing I quit.” She leaned over and kissed him. “I quit, too. A nice vacation on the beach sounds fun. But maybe we’ll leave the boinking for the hotel room.” They smiled, looked into each others eyes, and in unison said, “Nah.”

34

CASSANDRA CURTIS

Cassandra Curtis started her writing career in grade school. She would illustrate and write colorful stories using magic markers, crayons and sheets from her alphabet tablet, and sell them to other school kids for a penny. While the venture didn’t make a lot of fast money, it did mean she could indulge her love of comic books and not spend summers behind a lemonade stand with her sisters. She spent her formative years traveling the globe with her parents, learning a smattering of languages—usually just enough to get her in trouble. After college, she worked as a reporter and photojournalist at a weekly paper, then a daily, while continuing her love of art. Ms. Curtis now writes fiction full-time. An avid gardener and wildlife enthusiast, she enjoys the magick found in nature. Her interests include: art, antiques, astronomy, folklore, mythology, genealogy, music, eastern philosophy and collecting magickal artifacts. A member of both the World Romance Writers, and Romance Divas, Ms. Curtis won the 2006 Amber Quill Press Heat Wave Contest with her story Cup of Fate. She shares her home with an elderly, opinionated cat named Snowy and a shorthaired, nondomesticated alpha male, “Honey.” You can learn more about Cassandra by visiting her website: http://cassandracurtis.com *

*

*

Don’t miss Cup Of Fate, by Cassandra Curtis, available at AmberHeat.com!

Can one woman find true love in tea leaves? Or is it a tempest in a teacup? Bryn Tuttle lost everything due to her bad taste in men. Now she’s starting over fresh. In the misty bluegrass hills of Kentucky, she finds a new job, apartment and friends. When a co-worker invites her yardsale shopping one weekend, she decides to tag along, never realizing fate has something else in store. They discover a rare item—a mysterious, antique, fortune-telling teacup. Bryn never suspects that a single sip from the Cup of Fate will change her life, that her future is actually linked to the tea leaves that cling inside. But when she drinks from the cup and next awakens, she soon comprehends that nothing will ever be the same…

AMBER QUILL PRESS, LLC THE GOLD STANDARD IN PUBLISHING QUALITY BOOKS IN BOTH PRINT AND ELECTRONIC FORMATS

ACTION/ADVENTURE

SUSPENSE/THRILLER

SCIENCE FICTION

PARANORMAL

ROMANCE

MYSTERY

EROTICA

HORROR

WESTERN

FANTASY

MAINSTREAM

HISTORICAL

YOUNG ADULT

NON-FICTION

B UY D IRECT AND S AVE http://www.amberquill.com

AMBER QUILL PRESS, LLC HOME OF AMBER HEAT! QUALITY EROTIC FICTION IN BOTH PRINT AND ELECTRONIC FORMATS

ACTION/ADVENTURE

SUSPENSE/THRILLER

SCIENCE FICTION

PARANORMAL

ALTERNATIVE

MYSTERY

ROMANCE

HORROR

DARK FANTASY

FANTASY

CONTEMPORARY

HISTORICAL AND MORE…

B UY D IRECT AND S AVE http://www.amberheat.com